《Sorcerer’s Handbook》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1


    "Great apocalypse observer, Ashe Heath..."


    Ashe sat on the icy stone seat, looking at therge group of people in ck robes kneeling on the ground, kowtowing and praying to him. Under his cold and stern face, his heart was panicking.


    This wasn''t his fault. After all, hisst memory was still in that damn mobile gamepany, working overnight until dawn to contribute residual value. The next second he suddenly came to this strange underground hall to receive everyone''s worship. Anyone would be caught off guard.


    What was even more bizarre was that Ashe could understand theirnguage, as if it was his nativenguage. He could grasp their meaning directly without needing to think about trantion. As he gradually calmed down, he quickly came to the conclusion: he had transmigrated, and his soul had entered the body of someone with the same name.


    Since he was young, many people had said his name sounded very fantasy-like. But Ashe didn''t expect that one day he would really encounter such a bizarre event.


    However, he didn''t have the surname Heath, and it was precisely because of this that he could quickly determine that he was not dreaming.


    Not only was the name the same, even the appearance seemed almost identical. Also, Ashe felt no abnormality in his body when he moved his fingers, toes and other basic parts. It was as if this was his original body, everything was so dexterous and natural that Ashe couldn''t help but wonder if he had transmigrated to a parallel version of himself.


    For the sake of convenience in addressing each other, and because they had the same name, Ashe secretly referred to the original owner of this body as ''Heath'' in his heart.


    But these thoughts were of no help to his current situation, because Ashe discovered that Heath had not left the most important thing for him.


    That was memory.


    Yes, memory!


    It was as if when transmigrating, Heath''s memories had also been formatted. Ashe had no idea what to do next. He even maintained the calm expression with a touch of evil on his face, afraid that others would notice any ws.


    Although the people under the stone seat were extremely respectful to him, if Ashe showed any ws, they would be just as ruthless when their attitude changed as they were respectful now. After all, in their eyes, Ashe was an ''evil spirit from another world'' who had obliterated the soul of the holy son Heath and upied the holy son Heath''s body, making him the real viin. Coupled with their strong religious colors, Ashe didn''t think he could gain their understanding by saying "I''m actually the victim too".


    But just sitting here was no solution either. Ashe was already having trouble maintaining the faint smile on his face.


    Boom boom boom����


    A rumbling vibration suddenly sounded in the underground hall. The people in ck robes were overjoyed, throwing themselves to the ground, forehead to the floor, shouting in unison:


    "Pray for the descent of the Lord!"


    Ashe thought it was an earthquake and was about to stand up, but he realized his buttocks were like glued to the stone seat and he couldn''t get up no matter what. Suddenly, dazzling colorful rays of light illuminated his eyes. Looking up, he saw four brilliant rainbow rays of light floating in the air, bringing color and endless warmth to the hall.


    "Great apocalypse observer, Ashe Heath!"


    They said in unison, as if millions were speaking at the same time: "The only pure person in the dark and muddy world, thest hero of the heavy earth, you shoulder the mission of saving the world, the mission of redeeming all living beings!"


    "We will cross the silver celestial wheel to bestow power upon you, we will break open the golden celestial scales to bless your glory! Your name is sacred, your will is our will, your kingdom is thend of happiness for all living beings!"


    " Ashe Heath!"


    Unknowingly, Ashe found himself kneeling on one knee on the ground, respectfully lowering his head, waiting for the moment when glory would descend.


    The red light on the far left said: "I am the master of hundreds of millions of rays of light, in charge of battle, courage and honor! I bestow upon you the angel of power to sweep away all your enemies!"


    A female angel holding a long spear, with a pair of wings on her back, flew in front of Ashe. She wore red armor, her body only the size of a finger, but her aura was overwhelming. Ashe felt as if he could see mountains of corpses and oceans of blood in her eyes.


    The second blue light on the left said: "I am the lord of wind, rain and snow, in charge of strategy, change and destiny! I bestow upon you the angel of wisdom, to help you achieve all your goals!"


    A female angel wearing a blue hat and holding a notebook flew in front of Ashe, also only the size of a finger. Her eyes were profound, as if containing endless knowledge.


    The second green light on the right said: "I am the eternal burning heart, in charge of life, equality and sharing. I bestow upon you the angel of life, to help you be healthy forever!"


    A female angel that was emerald green, looking like a little girl, flew in front of Ashe. She was very cute, with a halo of emerald green light swirling around her, making people feel extremely warm and rxed.


    The pink light furthest to the right said: "I am the soul of fantasy and freedom, in charge of love, joy and art. I bestow upon you the angel of joy, to help you be charmingly transcendent!"


    A beautiful pink female angel flew in front of Ashe. Although her body was only the size of a finger, her curvy figure, bewitching eyes were as if she were the most beautiful existence in the world.


    The four angels flew around Ashe, adding gorgeous and dazzling radiance to him. At this moment, Ashe felt power gushing out endlessly. His body was full of energy, his mood extremely joyful, countless ns popping up in his mind. Everything was just so amazing!


    The master of hundreds of millions of rays of light, the lord of wind, rain and snow, the eternal burning heart, the soul of fantasy and freedom said at the same time: "Favored hero of fate,prehending the cause and effect, please go create miracles and save the world!"


    With the sound of bubbles popping, the four descended gods gradually dissipated. But the underground hall remained bright, because Ashe with his four angels was like a walking rainbow.


    Ashe clenched his fists, the corners of his mouth turned up, revealing a very confident smile.


    He didn''t expect, he really didn''t expect! He thought this sudden transmigration was a huge pit, but it turned out to be a blessing. He had actually be the hero of this world, blessed by four divine spirits, and worshipped by countless followers. How wonderful was this script!


    Next was to defeat monsters, save the world, marry the most beautiful princess, be the king of this world, and reach the pinnacle of life!


    Bang!


    A loud noise came from the ceiling. The ck robed believer in front said: "Hero, the Blood Mad Hunters have found this ce! Now we can only rely on you to drive them back!"


    Blood Mad Hunters? Just from the name they must be viin characters. Ashe guessed they were low level mobs to help him gain fame and get familiar with his skills. He arrogantly drew out the long sword from his waist and said boldly: "Where my sword points, none can stop me! Let these Blood Mad Hunters be the first souls under my sword! Come, lead the way!"


    "No need, we''lle over ourselves."


    With a boom, the ceiling of the underground hall was sted open!


    Ashe looked up to see a group of enemies in blood-patterned long swords, silver windbreakers and hunting hats jumping down from above!


    "Good that you''vee!"


    Ashe shouted loudly:


    "Power!"


    "Wisdom!"


    "Life!"


    "Joy!"


    The four angels blessed Ashe together. At this moment, Ashe felt he could cut the enemies in two with one sword! He was fearless, shouting loudly as he jumped up and shed at the leading Blood Mad Hunter. He even sent out a sky-splitting sword aura!


    With the favor of the gods, I''ve actually be so powerful!


    Now I have protective barriers and endless stamina. Let''s see who else can defeat me!


    Just as Ashe was secretlycent, he heard the Blood Mad Hunter across from him scoff.


    "That''s it?"


    The Blood Mad Hunter''s face revealed a fierce grin. With a casual wave of his long sword, it instantly turned into a several meter long chain sword, sending out a dozen meter long blood red sword aura!


    Ashe''s sword aura was instantly swallowed up, the protective barriers on his body also shattered instantly. The entire underground hall was split in half by the Blood Mad Hunter''s one sword, and a huge crack opened up under Ashe''s feet!


    Seeing the opponent easily defeat him, Ashe was stunned for a moment: "How is this possible..."


    "You only have four two-winged chaos magic spirits, not even your own. Where did you get the courage to fight me, a three-wing Saint Domain warrior?"


    With a swoosh, a violent wind rose up. Three wings emerged from the Blood Mad Hunter''s back - silver, gold, and rainbow colored!


    He retracted his chain sword back into a normal long sword form, then charged into Ashe''s arms like an airborne dragon, running Ashe through the chest and nailing him to the stone seat!


    Ashe had to sit back down again.


    He vomited blood, staring nkly as the Blood Mad Hunter took a smallntern from his waist. Through some method, thentern suddenly emitted a ring bright white light.


    The angels who were still trying to continue empowering Ashe let out desperate, hateful shrieks under the illumination of this white light. Their forms could no longer maintain the previous beauty, each bing extremely ugly!


    The power angel turned into a hideous mantis,


    The wisdom angel decayed into a rotten fly,


    The life angel melted into pale maggots,


    The joy angel even turned into a stench of rot!


    The blessings of courage, wisdom, joy and life quickly faded from Ashe''s body. He was also stimtedpletely sober by the pain in his chest. A confused look appeared on his face.


    What just happened?


    He was just an ordinary person who had transmigrated over. He didn''t know any information, so why did he suddenly be so arrogant and impetuous, participating in a war unrted to him?


    This wasn''t something a normal office worker who had been battered by society for years could do!


    Just as Ashe was lost in thought, the battle in the underground hall had also ended. The ck robed believers were no match for the Blood Mad Hunters at all.


    The Blood Mad Hunter standing in front of Ashe took out a scroll from his clothes and unrolled it in front of Ashe, revealing the red stamped document inside:


    "I am Blood Mad Hunter Gerard Wessminster of the Heresy Court. Hunter number 307791. The Heresy Court now suspects you are involved with the Four Pirs Cult''s dissemination case, along with multiple kidnapping cases, homicide cases, robbery cases and other vicious crimes. This is an arrest warrant signed by the Heresy Court of Caimon City. If you have any opinions about ourw enforcement, you can file aint at the front desk of Caimon City Heresy Court Branch Office at 233 Civitas Avenue, or directly give feedback to the mayor''s mailbox."


    "Now then." The Blood Mad Hunter put away the arrest warrant and took out a pair of silvery handcuffs. He personally put on this exquisite bracelet for Ashe, the corners of his mouth turned up, revealing pale white fangs.


    "Four Pirs Cult leader, Ashe Heath, you are under arrest."

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2


    "Name?"


    "Ashe...Ashe Heath."


    "Age?"


    "Don''t know, I have amnesia."


    "Gender?"


    "Let me see...male."


    "Race?"


    "Probably not a dog?"


    "Past experiences?"


    "I really don''t know, I have amnesia."


    ...


    Blood Mad Hunter Emma observed the interrogation room through the two-way mirror, listening to the cult leader''s nonchnt and reckless responses to the questioning. Her eyes turned to slits and her fingernails grew long in anger.


    "Captain, does this scoundrel think everyone in the Heresy Court is an idiot? This interrogation is useless. Let me do it instead. During my school days I learned interrogation techniques from a priest. I even got a Level 1 Interrogation License. I swear on the priest''s name that I''ll make this bastard confess even the time he wet his bed as a child!"


    "Burn that interrogation license. The ''Human Rights Act Amendment'' abolished the interrogation profession and prohibited the Heresy Court from interrogating suspects 12 years ago. Vitors will have their hunter licenses revoked at minimum and sentenced to over 100 years in prison at most. Parliament watches us very closely. We''ll get in trouble if Ashe Heath loses even one night''s sleep here. I won''t stop you if you want Parliament to take a bite out of you."


    "Hmph." Emma pouted angrily but also fearfully, changing the topic, "Where''s the mnemonist? It''s been so long since we caught him, howe no mnemonist hase to extract this scoundrel''s memories?"


    "The mnemonist won''te."


    "Why not? For a major case like this, shouldn''t a mnemoniste to extract memory evidence no matter what? I remember the Criminal Code stating that memories must be used as direct evidence for all criminal offenses, right?"


    "But he''s different."


    "How is he different?"


    Gerard looked at her, "He has seen the Four Pirs."


    Emma was slightly shocked, then understood.


    "It''s not just him, none of the cultists can have their memories extracted."


    Gerard said, "Memory contamination is the Four Pirs'' specialty. In the Four Pirs cult case I worked on 134 years ago, a mnemonist extracted the cultists'' memories and unknowingly became a follower. That''s why the Four Pirs cult has endlessly revived from its ashes."


    "Then what should we do?" Emma was dumbfounded, "Asking yields no evidence, torture is prohibited, memory extraction is impossible... Don''t tell me we have to let him go free? Or make a special exception?"


    "No need for exceptions." Gerard said, "There is one death penalty fitting for such a heinous criminal who has stirred immense public outrage... The interrogation here is just a formality. The real judgement will take ce at 8pm on the 15th, carried out collectively by all the city''s people."


    Emma immediately understood, but when she turned and saw the cult leader still iming memory loss in the interrogation room, she couldn''t help feeling irritated. She stuck out her tongue in contempt then left, dragging her sagging gray tail.


    Gerard was still watching the unsubstantial interrogation. They had to pause for the suspect to rest, as required by the ''Human Rights Act'' after 15 minutes of questioning.


    The cult leader was drinking water, asionally touching his recently pierced chest, a look of astonishment then worry in his eyes.


    For some reason, Gerard felt he wasn''t lying.


    All his reactions - panic, curiosity, fear, confusion...really resembled an amnesiac ordinary person.


    ording to the ''Human Rights Act'', symptoms like dissociative identity disorder, amnesia, and mental illness could be consideredck of capacity for self-governance, exempting one from criminal punishment.


    If memory extraction revealed Ashe really had amnesia, he could even be found not guilty.


    But that was irrelevant to Gerard, because memory extraction was impossible due to the Four Pirs. So...


    "Judging you is the people''s business. We just need to deliver you into their sight." Gerard left to pursue the next suspect.


    ...


    ...


    "Now I really will be dying early and reincarnating quickly..."


    Lying on the clean soft bed, Ashe put down the documents in his hand and looked around the bright, spacious cell with its own bathroom. His heart was filled with gloom.


    Although he had already guessed the truth after seeing the ugly downfall of those ''angels'', he still didn''t expect reality to be even worse than his imagination - the hunters'' usations werepletely valid. He really was a bona fide cult leader through and through.


    The gods who granted Ashe power were the world''s most infamous Four Pirs. They had many titles, but were most known for always appearing together and stirring endless chaos in this world.


    The Lord of Billion Lights, also called the Tyrant, pursued endless war and seas of corpses to drown the world. His followers would ughter all they saw, even themselves.


    The Lord of Wind, Rain and Snow, also called the Conspirator, was known for manipting mortals with schemes and plots. He loved fulfilling his followers'' wishes, though granting their wishes would also drive them to utter madness.


    The Eternal zing Heart, also called the Compassionate Father, was the source of all gues and diseases, the final destination for all rotten things. His followers would be hotbeds of illness, living painfully, horrifically, and desperately, yet never dying.


    The Dreaming Free Soul, also called the Debauched Prince, represented the endless desires of creatures. He was also the most extensively documented of the four - intelligent creatures were easiest for him to corrupt with desire, turning them into instinctual animals that could never be satisfied once corrupted, their rationalitypletely swallowed by instinct.


    Ashe had doubted the information was fake to deceive him, but firstly, his captors could make him appear however they wished since he was already captured. Secondly, the information contained illustrated details of Heath''s crimes and heinous methods. Just reading it made Ashe want to vomit out the mushroom chicken noodle soup he just ate.


    Since Heath was evil, the Four Pirs must be wicked gods.


    Then by contrast, the Blood Mad Hunters who captured him represented justice...or at least forces that maintained societal stability.


    In just half a day, Ashe had experienced a dramatic emotional rollercoaster - at first he thought he was a novice hero just leaving beginner''s vige, but it turned out he was actually a fledgling cult leader who had just epted his first batch of angels preparing to start a business.


    Then he was mobbed like a wild elite monster by groups of heroes.


    Not only had he transmigrated as a cult leader, but it happened right when the hunters were encircling and suppressing the cult...So did I cross over specifically to give the hunters performance points?!


    Ashe tossed and turned in bed, ming fate''s unfairness while also wondering if he had actually just died from overwork and this was his afterlife. But all his thoughts converged into one realization - how will they execute me?


    Although the interrogation had been extremely polite, providing free meals and a luxury private room, and the only difort was the stylish bracelets and anklets he had to wear, Ashe still felt this was clearly meant as hisst trip.


    But he vaguely sensed this world was quite civilized. Perhaps they had abolished the death penalty, leaving him a ray of hope...


    Suddenly, a crisp notification chime rang in his mind.


    "Ding dong!"


    Ashe felt his neck grow warm, then a screen of light unfurled before his eyes.


    His heart shook. With countless hopes, he focused on deciphering the unfamiliar words on the screen -


    "Dear Mr. Ashe Heath, prisoner number 4001623. The Caimon City Hall formally invites you to be a special guest on the Caimon Channel 1 ''Blood Moon Tribunal'' TV program at 8pm on the 15th. Please pay attention to your attire and grooming then. We will send an escort to bring you to the live studio. Reply ''TC'' if you wish to decline this invitation."


    Although Ashe didn''t know what this ''Blood Moon Tribunal'' was, the name didn''t sound like anything good. He immediately tried to type ''TC'' in the reply box.


    But when he focused his mind to do so, another prompt popped up on the screen:


    "You are currently under arrest and investigation. Messaging functions have been disabled."


    Damnit! So thest part of the notice was just to bait me!?


    Ashe then turned his attention to studying this new gadget in front of him.


    He touched the back of his neck but couldn''t feel any obvious bumps or protrusions. Yet he could clearly sense the screen was intimately connected to his neck, as if its settings were imnted there.


    Since something like a ''death verdict'' notification would be sent to him this way, Ashe figured this must be amunication tool everyone used here, not something exclusive to him.


    Sure enough, when he focused on the "?" icon in the top left corner, a whole series of information immediately popped up:


    "Name: ''Heath''s'' ''Mind Screen''"


    "Version: 14.4.1"


    "Chip Model: Miracle 13"


    "Current Status: Messaging functions disabled, inte functions disabled, essing channels disabled, recording disabled, energy output restricted, virtual world ess disabled, arcane energy output disabled..."


    "Main Number: 459105198"


    "Service Provider: Caimon Psychic Hotline"


    Ashe casually changed the name to "Ashe''s Mind Screen". He thought this world''s technology was quite advanced, possessing supernatural abilities that enhanced individuals''bat strength as well as widespread tech external aids like this.


    Ironically, Ashe had just thought this was a crossover cheat, never expecting it to be a mass-produced gadget. It was like an ancient person transmigrating to modern times and picking up a cell phone, mistakenly thinking it was an artifact.


    Thinking of his previous chuunibyou thoughts, Ashe felt somewhat embarrassed.


    Although Ashe was very curious to research this new toy, most of its functions were prohibited. Aside from the calendar, messaging, memos, and calctor, all that was left was...


    Aurora''s Spellcaster Handbook?


    Ashe was puzzled.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    The gamepany Ashe worked for in his past life was called Aurora.


    Aurora had released many popr mobile games, including "Aurora''s Dungeon Castle", "Aurora''s Land of Mutation", and "Carefree Cultivation". "Aurora''s Sorcerer''s Handbook" was a new mobile game they were ytesting.


    Ashe was not in the new game''s development team but the operations department. However, he heard the new game was really fun and expected to be a hit. The nning lead wanted Ashe to spearhead a small team to handle the operations and nning for the new game''sunch, so Ashe downloaded the Sorcerer''s Handbook demo to study it and contribute more valueter on.


    But before Ashe could open the game, he suddenly got transmigrated while pulling an all-nighter at work.


    How did this game also get transmigrated with him? And it automatically installed itself into his consciousness screen?


    Ashe was full of suspicions, but thinking about how he would be meat on the chopping block in a few days, he didn''t have time to investigate the game''s origins. He could only hope it would bring him a miracle!


    "Aurora''s Sorcerer''s Handbook is starting up..."


    "Checking/updating game resources... Unable to connect towork, switching to local areawork mode automatically."


    "Warning: Image system missing... Repairing..."


    "Warning: Instance system missing... Repairing..."


    "Warning: Data system missing... Repairing..."


    "..."


    A flood of red Warning prompts shed across the screen until a green prompt appeared and stopped them:


    "Exploration system started normally."


    "Recharge system started normally."


    "Wee to the Sorcerer''s Handbook."


    Dammit! The whole game could only start properly with the gacha and recharging systems. As expected of mypany!


    Ashe looked at the screen helplessly. 80% of the light screen was nk. Only two rainbow-colored options in the top right corner could be interacted with:


    "Material Purchase" "Operator Recruitment"


    Tapping on "Material Purchase", there were source crystal purchase options. One crystal cost 6 points, a set cost 30 points, a pile cost 98 points, a bag cost 198 points, a box cost 328 points, a crate cost 648 points. Each option had first recharge double bonus...


    Ashe could easily guess these points were money. But his Alipay didn''t get transmigrated with him, so where would he get money to recharge? Why would thepany implement a recharge system in an internal test demo? Were they trying to get back the sries they paid us... Tch, thepany is capable of this kind of thing.


    Tapping on "Operator Recruitment", due to the missing resources, the operator recruitment screen was also nk, with only two dry options: "Recruit Once" and "Recruit Ten Times".


    Ashe wanted to try gacha for fun, but recruiting once cost 3 source crystals. Where would he get money to roll?


    Hold on, I remember there''s a universal cheat code. Maybe it''ll work... Ashe entered ��Carefree Cultivation Easy Cultivation��, but the game interface glitched and didn''t respond. Looks like there''s no debug backdoor in this game yet.


    Just as Ashe was feeling dejected, a notification popped up on the light screen: "Check-in system repaired sessfully, connecting to main server... Unable to connect to server, switching to local areawork mode automatically."


    A third option appeared on the screen: "Login Check-in".


    Tapping it showed a calendar. April 11th had an auto checkmark.


    "Standard Supply: 1 source crystal."


    "New yer First Check-in Supply: 1 Tenfold Operator Permit."


    "Tenfold Operator Permit: Issued by Aurora Investigation Department. Used for recruiting high value targets in batches, allowing ten recruitments at once. Guaranteed to recruit an operator."


    Although the terminology was unfamiliar, none of that mattered. Ashe knew whether he could escape next week''s Blood Moon Tribunal depended on this unknown transmigrated game!


    He tapped on "Operator Recruitment" and selected "Recruit Ten Times"!


    Instead of fancy summon animations, it simply showed a in list of recruitment results!


    "Energy Potion" "Energy Potion" "EXP Potion" "EXP Potion"... "Death Maniac Swordswoman" "Basic Combat EXP Card" "Training Wooden Sword"...


    Jackpot!


    A message popped up: "Operator system repaired sessfully. You can now manage your owned operators."


    Ashe immediately checked the card. It showed a red-haired girl in a ck halter dress, with the innocent smile of a girl next door. Hands behind her back, long legs in ck stockings and little leather shoes, head tilted curiously, light red eyes full of curiosity.


    "Death Maniac Swordswoman"


    "Human��Female��18 Years Old"


    "Trust Level: 0 (30% EXP Share)"


    "ss: Sorcerer Apprentice"


    "ss Trait: Learning Efficiency +5%"


    "Innate Talent - Swordswoman (Lower): Gain 100% extra swordmanship EXP, small chance to gain 10000% swordmanship EXP. (Talent level unlocks upon strength increase.)"


    "Personal Skill - Pitch ck Heart: Eliminate dangers before they sprout. Has a chance to automatically counterattack when enemy intends to attack them, based on rtive strength."


    "Owned Items: None"


    "Controlled Magic Spirit: None"


    "Hydro Style: Not Yet Unlocked"


    "Training Strategy: Not Set"


    Ashe stared for a long time but didn''t see anything about death or mania. He couldn''t help but get angry - other than a cool edgy name, this was just a generic cute girl!


    Don''t think you can scam money with just a nice illustration!


    The starter character can''t be put to use immediately and still needs the yer to train them slowly? People these days live such fast-paced lives, if you don''t let yers enjoy the satisfaction instantly and instead make them spend time, what kind of trash game is this? The nning should be left to me, I could do it too!


    And the first pull gives a useless character, whatever, but she can''t be summoned to reality to help me fight, so what''s the point of gacha!


    In a few days I''ll be on the execution stand as the executioner''s KPI, this game can''t even help me escape, am I supposed to just log in every day before death to contribute traffic to this trash game? As expected of mypany!


    With hisst hope shattered, Ashe became even more disheartened. He exited the operator details screen. Seeing the red dot on the new "Operator Management" option on the main screen, the slightly OCD Ashe naturally tapped it open.


    The next second, he bolted up in bed.


    Because in the "Operator Management" screen, there were two operators.


    Aside from the newly pulled "Death Maniac Swordswoman", there was also a rather handsome, slender young man in a jet ck coat -


    "Apocalypse Observer"


    "Human��Male��25 Years Old"


    "Trust: ��"


    "ss: Cult Leader / Ancient Historian"


    "ss Trait: Blessed by the Four Pirs, +10 to luck checks; better at identifying ancient artifacts, +5 ancient artifact appraisal"


    "Innate Talent - Sorcerer''s Handbook (Lower): Logs other operators into the manual. Experiences gained by other operators is shared with this operator based on Trust percentage. Currently 0/1 manual pages (talent limit unlocks upon strength increase)."


    "Personal Skill - Disced Soul: Effect unknown."


    "Owned Items: None"


    "Controlled Magic Spirit: None"


    "Summoner Style: Not Yet Unlocked"


    Ashe turned to look at the only mirror iid on the prison wall,paring it to the illustration for a long time before fully confirming - this ''Apocalypse Observer'' is him, Ashe Heath!


    Whether it''s the Innate Talent ''Sorcerer''s Handbook'' or the Personal Skill ''Disced Soul'', they''re referencing his current situation!


    Moreover, Ashe recognized the title Apocalypse Observer - it''s what the cultists of the Four Pirs called him.


    It sounded awesome but he still got wiped out by some hunters right after starting his rebellion, a typical example of getting shut down by the police station as soon as you try to rebel.


    He didn''t expect this to be his codename in the game, not very damaging but extremely insulting.


    However, what''s with this jet ck coat? Ashe didn''t remember ever wearing that. Maybe it''s an outfit Heath likes? Then his taste really isn''t great.


    Ashe looked through Death Maniac Swordswoman''s details again, staring at the ''30% EXP Share'' Trust Level for a long time. He knew this was likely his only chance of escaping prison!


    If he didn''t guess wrong, when he trained "Death Maniac Swordswoman" in the game, he could obtain 30% of her EXP! The stronger the swordswoman, the stronger he bes!


    Hope rekindled. Ashe became invigorated as he checked the other trash he got from gacha - 2 Energy Potions, 4 EXP Potions, 1 Training Wooden Sword, 1 Basic Combat EXP Card, 1 Trial Card.


    "Energy Potion": In training actions, grants operator 1 extra action point,sts 7 days.


    "EXP Potion": In training actions, operator gains +10% skill EXP,sts 7 days, max 50% increase per operator.


    "Training Wooden Sword": Equipping grants +15% EXP from sword training.


    "Basic Combat EXP Card": Operator use grants lots of EXP frombat training,sts 7 days (Risk Level: Low)


    "Basic Trial Card": Grants operator a trial, gains varied EXP, each operator limited to 1 use per week.


    All useful for training, perfectly suiting Ashe''s needs. Getting items that directly increase strength wouldn''t benefit Ashe anyway.


    Though why was there a "Risk Level: Low" note after thebat EXP card...


    He tapped into Death Maniac Swordswoman''s Training Strategy and found there were many considerations:


    "Death Maniac Swordswoman"


    "Current Mood: 5 (EXP Bonus 0)"


    "Selectable Actions: Rest, Amuse, Train, Trial"


    "Rest: Consumes 1 action point, recovers some mood."


    "Amuse: Consumes 2 action points, recoversrge amount of mood."


    "Train: Consumes 1 action point, conduct style training."


    "Combat: Consumes 1 action point, requires use of specific item."


    "Trial: Does not consume action point, requires use of specific item."


    "Daily Action Points This Week: 2 points (Can use Energy Potion to gain 1 extra)"


    "I see, need to consider the operator''s mood too. Better training results when they''re happier. Must find a good work-life bnce, the basis of education..."


    Ashe greatly appreciated this humanized training system. He chose to equip Death Maniac Swordswoman with the "Training Wooden Sword", consumed 1 Energy Potion and 4 EXP Potions, using up 3 action points!


    "Training Strategy: Train, Train, Combat"


    "Trial Event This Week: Swordsmanship"


    "I''m about to be executed, who has time to care about a 2D girl''s mood!"


    When Ashe tapped Confirm in the Training Strategy screen, a prompt popped up in the light screen: "Trigger Apocalypse Observer''s Innate Talent to log Death Maniac Swordswoman into the Sorcerer''s Handbook?"


    "Oh right, almost forgot to bind the swordswoman. Good thing the game reminded me, otherwise wouldn''t the training go to waste?" Ashe eximed in relief. Now, his life was like a candle in the wind. He couldn''t afford to waste any time and had to maximize every gain.


    "Confirm logging Death Maniac Swordswoman into the Sorcerer''s Handbook? Note: This is irreversible."


    "Confirm!"


    "Operator Trust login sessful. Training in progress, scheduling events..."


    "Constructing trial scene... Missing scene materials, auto-filling..."


    "Searching avable scenes, upying..."


    "Missing trial targets, auto-filling... Searching avable targets, extracting..."


    Watching the game messages, Ashe had nothing to do for the time being. Perhaps due to the day''s extreme highs and lows, as soon as he rxed, drowsiness washed over him. It was as if all his energy had been sapped away. His eyelids kept drooping.


    Before his head even hit the pillow, Ashe fell into deep sleep.


    At the same time.


    In another faraway ce, 3 hours behind Ashe time zone-wise.


    A girl who went to bed early for skincare and beauty sleep suddenly found herself awake in a dream.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    This is a small ind.


    Though that''s only because Sonya''s limited vocabry didn''t contain a more fitting noun. After all, this ce could only be described as a palm-sized protrusion suddenly jutting out from the sea, as if the waves could swallow it at any moment.


    But the sea was calm, extremely calm, without a hint of wind. Sonya stood with her legs immersed in the seawater, treading on the wet sandy ground, and looked around.


    Thick fog, milky-white and suffusing every inch of space, surrounded her. The sky was like a smear of dense ink, murky and heavy.


    I''m dreaming, Sonya thought.


    She clearly remembered falling asleep in the girls'' dormitory at the Academy of the Rose''s Sorcerers, so it was impossible for her to suddenly appear on a small ind.


    Upon realizing it was a dream, Sonya felt much more rxed. Curiously, she crouched down and tasted the seawater, discovering it was just like normal drinking water, and even had a hint of sweetness,pletely unlike the bitter saltiness described in her online courses.


    Sonya grew even more certain this was a dream, since she had never been to the seaside or tasted seawater before, so she had no idea what it tasted like.


    "But if this is a dream..." Sonya looked towards the center of the small ind, "Why would I dream of a corpse I''ve never seen before?"


    In the middle of the small ind, an unfamiliar corpse knelt half-prostrated in the sandy ground.


    It wore a pitch-ck overcoat with a hood, obscuring its features and heavy clothing making it impossible to discern its gender. A longsword pierced its chest, but it did not copse, instead remaining kneeling on one knee. Its left hand clutched the scabbard at its waist, its right gripping the hilt of an undrawn sword, as if it had been stabbed through the heart before it could even draw its weapon.


    Other than the corpse and the sand, there was nothing else on the tiny ind. Since Sonya couldn''t swim and believed she was dreaming, she had no fear of the corpse and boldly approached to examine it.


    She discovered the longsword still dripping blood from where it impaled the corpse. Blood trickled along the beautiful engravings on the de, flowing back to the dark ruby embedded in the crossguard, making the entire sword seem as if it hade alive...it was far too beautiful...


    Before Sonya realized it, she was already gripping the longsword tightly.


    The scabbard that fit perfectly in her palm, the ostentatious engravings that appealed wlessly to her aesthetic sense, and the feeling as if it were an extension of her own body...this sword, it was as if...


    ...as if it had been custom forged just for her.


    Without thinking, Sonya pulled the longsword free from the corpse.


    She had assumed the corpse would copse with the removal of the sword, so she took a step back to avoid being struck by the falling body.


    Yet the corpse did not fall.


    On the contrary, it stood up.


    Step, step, the sounds of steel heels on sand echoed as the corpse slowly straightened its back before Sonya''s frightened gaze. It drew its chilling, sharp longsword.


    Swish! The sword sliced through the air as it pointed its tip at Sonya. Though its eyes were obscured, Sonya felt a pair of emotionless, icy eyes upon her!


    "Don''t worry, Swordswoman, this time, I am not your enemy."


    The corpse''s voice was neither male nor female, instead sounding like the grinding of machinery: "I will simply kill you, that''s all."


    Your definition of "enemy" seems to deviate greatly from the norm... Sonya gripped the ornate longsword tightly, as if it could grant her some sense of security.


    "Who are you?" Her voice trembled slightly.


    "I am called the Apocalypse Observer, you may call me Observer." The Observer said: "In the next seventy-two hours, you can only leave this ce if you defeat me. Otherwise, you can only leave after seventy-two hours have passed."


    "Isn''t this a dream?" Sonya''s eyes widened.


    "The only difference between dreams and reality, is that reality is a dream co-woven by all, while dreams..."


    "Are the cages you build for yourself."


    Just as the words faded, the Observer stamped the sand and lunged forward, swinging his dazzling de in a sh - even though Sonya had already retreated as far as she could, she was unable to evade the sword''s radiance!


    "You have ten seconds to rest."


    Sonya knelt on the ground, hands clutching her throat tightly, her face filled with shock.


    The sensation of being torn was extremely realistic, as if her neck had just been severed by this inexplicable weirdo.


    If this were truly a dream, such agonizing pain should have woken her from herfortable, cozy bed.


    Yet��


    "Ten seconds have passed. I suggest you grip your sword tightly. Only by doing so can you..."


    Sonya raised her head and saw the Observer sheathe his sword at his waist, taking up a stance to draw it, then kicked off the sand and charged at her!


    In a panic, Sonya raised her longsword and retreated, but the Observer''s step was so abrupt that he seemed to teleport over a dozen steps. By the time she saw the trail of his sword, his voice was already sounding from behind her��


    "Die a little more dignified."


    "You have ten seconds to rest."


    The instant Sonya regained her senses from the pain of decapitation, she did not hesitate at all to turn and jump into the sea, even though she couldn''t swim!


    It seemed the fear of death had brought out her potential, as Sonya practically instinctively learned to swim, although it was an extremely ungraceful doggy paddle sending water everywhere. As long as she could get away from that terrifying little ind and creepy man, it was fine!


    If it weren''t for her empty stomach in this dreamscape, Sonya even considered trying the "fart propulsion" from jokes.


    Amidst all the sshing, Sonya clearly heard the Observer''s voice: "Fleeing is shameful."


    "And useless."


    Suddenly, the back of her neck chilled, and Sonya looked down to see the icy tip of a sword pierce through from her neck!


    Before the waves of pain could drown her, Sonya found herself returned to the small ind.


    "You have ten seconds to rest."


    This time, she did not flee, instead watching the Observer''s hands.


    "Did you expect that I would have no weapon after throwing away my sword?" The Observer leisurely sheathed his sword, "After dying so many times, why are you still so naive?"


    "Isn''t this a bit too unreasonable?" Sonya gave a wryugh.


    "Reason exists only at the tip of a de. Pleading reason with your mouth is useless. Convince me with your sword instead."


    The Observer hadn''t even finished speaking before Sonya plopped to her knees before him.


    "Great, merciful,passionate unknown deity, Sonya prays and sings your praises night and day, listening to your holy words, following your miracles, chanting your will... Please don''t torment me like this anymore, just tell me directly what you want me to do, I''m very obedient and will listen, you can order me to do anything, wu wu wu..."


    "Will you really do anything?" The Observer asked.


    Sonya looked up with tearful doe eyes, seemingly hesitating a bit as her cheeks flushed slightly. She gritted her teeth and nodded.


    "Then very well, I order you��" The Observer gripped his sword hilt and took up his stance, "Defeat me."


    ng!


    "You have ten seconds to rest."


    Sonyay limply in the sand, nkly staring up at the pitch-ck sky. Then she flopped up like a fish and asked in puzzlement:


    "Why are you wasting time on a small fry like me? There are so many heinous sinners in this world, if you want to punish evil I can rmend a few people. Or if you''re a viin yourself, I can also suggest a few highly-ced hypocrites to corrupt.


    I''m just an ordinary female student, not worth the effort you''re spending to deal with me. Your current actions are like using a spiral beam cannon to swat a mosquito, having a swordsman chop firewood - it''s an enormous waste of resources, don''t you agree?"


    "Just tell me directly what you want me to do. I''m clearly a weak, delicate flower made to be ravaged, destined to drift with the tides since birth..."


    But as Sonya tried persuading him logically and emotionally, the Observer simply shook his head: "You''re mistaken."


    Sonya immediately said, "Where did I go wrong? Tell me, I''ll definitely fix it."


    "Your first sentence was wrong."


    "The first one?"


    "How can you be certain..." The Observer gripped his sword hilt and took up his stance, "That you didn''t offend me in the past?"


    ng!


    "You have ten seconds to rest."


    Perhaps from dying so frequently, Sonya actually felt decapitation was pretty mundane, the pain grew familiar so it wasn''t a big deal.


    She looked up at the Observer, "As long as I stay here seventy-two hours, I can leave this goddamn dream?"


    "Correct." The Observer nodded, "Although, there are no clocks here. Compared to a lifetime, seventy-two hours is not long, yet to death, seventy-two hours is also not short."


    "Can you really persist through continuous death for seventy-two hours?"


    "Moreover, why would you believe the words of someone who continuously kills you in a dream? What if I''m lying?"


    "And even if you did escape the dream tonight, what about tomorrow night? The night after?"


    The Observer took up his stance, "Since you''ve witnessed death, you shouldn''t expect miracles."


    ng!


    The Observer stepped forward, and spun his entire body with the drawing horizontal sh. In an instant he crossed over a dozen steps, his longsword apanied by massive centrifugal force as it moved to behead Sonya once more��


    ng!


    For the first time, Sonya''s de blocked the Observer''s edge!


    Now, Sonya''s face was expressionless, no fear, anger, killing intent, pleading, just the coldest stillness. Her ruby-like pupils reflected the Observer''s obscured visage, as if engraving him deeply in her mind!


    "You left me no choice."

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    "You have ten seconds to rest."


    Sonya took a deep breath, frantically recalling every detail of the battle so far. Although she was confident she hadn''t lost any memories from her repeated deaths, she had no way of knowing for sure. She had to avoid the worst case scenario as much as possible.


    She had lost count of exactly how many times she had died. Her mind was focused solely on the enemy before her, the "Apocalypse Observer." She analyzed his every move, imprinting his ruthless attacks into her body''s muscle memory!


    She realized the Observer did not possess any extraordinary abilities. He didn''t even have a physical advantage over her.


    Compared to her, the Observer was merely a skilled swordsman - at best.


    Sonya had seen master swordsmen who had cultivated their skills to perfection. Even a casual swing of their de emitted an oppressive aura like needles pricking your back. Just gripping their sword hilt was enough to instill fear and submission in the weak.


    The Observer was an ordinary footholdpared to those true masters.


    Yes, just a foothold.


    Although she had died again, Sonya''s desperate counterattack had seeded in hitting the Observer.


    But like his sword returning to his hand after being thrown, the Observer who had just taken a sword to the chest appeared unscathed, as if the wound had instantaneously healed.


    If there was a recovery period, Sonya would have certainly traded injuries for death to wear him down. Unfortunately, this duel was meant to be fair, leaving her no such loopholes.


    A fair duel - Sonya found it somewhat ironic.


    But she had to admit, everything was fair.


    The unreasonable restrictions made it clear she had only one choice: to defeat the Observer through absolute skill in this duel.


    The ten seconds were up. Time itself seemed to be a tangible entity. The moment it ended, Sonya tensed uppletely, gripping her sword and charging at the Observer!


    At the start of every battle, the Observer would hold his sword in a ready stance before stepping forward to draw and spin in a shing attack. The farther Sonya was from him, the more intense the blow, even knocking away her weapon entirely!


    This move was simr to the famed iaijutsu quick draw sh. And the method to counter it was simple - never dodge, actively step forward to interrupt his spin!


    ng!


    Sonya''s arms were almost numb from the vibrations, but she had seeded in stopping the Observer''s spin, dragging him into lethal close quartersbat!


    After dying so many times, Sonya no longer cared about a few more holes in her body. As long as she could kill the Observer before her own death, it would be her victory!


    ng! ng! ng!


    After several seamless exchanges, Sonya silently counted to five in her head. Right on cue, the Observer evaded in a bizarre, abrupt direction, then stepped forward for a sword sh at her head!


    No warning, extremely dangerous!


    Sonya had initially thought it was some supernatural ability. But after experiencing it several deaths, she realized it was abat footwork technique.


    Even so, Sonya had no counter - she simply couldn''t predict which way the Observer would evade!


    Because he would often only evade after seeing Sonya''s attack, then immediately counterattack, she dubbed this move "Mikiri."


    Iaijutsu was easy to block, but mikiri was hard to defend against.


    So Sonya didn''t even try to defend. She raised her arm to block the sword with her forearm bones, closing the distance to attempt a beheading strike!


    Mikiri''s greatest weakness was itsck of power - it couldn''t sever her arm!


    But as the Observer''s sword sliced into her arm, his legs slid strangely in the sand as he evaded again, barely avoiding Sonya''s de as he stepped forward with a neck slice!


    Double mikiri!


    "You have ten seconds to rest."


    Sonya pped her cheeks and gripped her sword tightly at the Observer. "Come on!"


    The Observer entered his ready stance and unleashed his iaijutsu quick draw sh -


    But there was no sound of des shing. The Observer remained in his spin sh stance, but he hadn''t hit anything.


    Just before the Observer''s sh reached Sonya, she suddenly slid her feet in the sand in a bizarre stance, evading in apletely different direction!


    The Observer was still in the recovery of his spin sh, while Sonya was free to counterattack!


    But instead, Sonya took on the sheathing stance!


    "After dying so many times, even a pig would have learned your moves!"


    With Sonya''s yell, she stepped forward, drawing and spinning in a shing attack!


    Mikiri - Iaijutsu - quick draw sh!


    Using iaijutsu as the follow-up to mikiri topensate for mikiri''s weaker attack!


    Sonya had already learned the quick draw sh long ago, but had held back until she was confident in mikiri as well,bining them in hopes of ying the Observer in one strike!


    With the fierce spinning momentum, Sonya barely felt any resistance as her de sliced open the Observer''s chest like a hot knife through butter!


    She couldn''t aim for his neck due to her height, and raising her arms even slightly during the spin was a huge burden, so his chest would have to do.


    So smooth? Sonya could hardly believe it. She quickly regained her bnce from the spinning sh and eyed the Observer warily. "Does this mean I''ve defeated you?"


    "Yes, congrattions." The Observer said. "You have seeded in defeating me with only one de."


    One de... As Sonya stared confusedly, the Observer lightly flicked his toe in the sand, hooking and pulling out another longsword.


    "The first half is over. The second half begins." The Observer held the twin des in a cross stance. "Also, there is no ten second rest from here on."


    ......


    ......


    "Sonya, we have morning sses today. Aren''t you going?"


    Sonya clutched her head and sat up to find only Engelica left in their dorm room. Engelica was already dressed and about to head out.


    "What time is it?"


    "7:30 AM. We have General Ed this morning. I remember you usually get up an hour early on mornings with General Ed to do your skincare and makeup routine... The others already left... You don''t look well."


    "Is that so?" Sonya unconsciously touched her neck before collecting herself and shaking her head. "I probably had a nightmare..."


    "A nightmare? You''ll forget it soon." Engelica said indifferently. "Remember toe to ss. Don''t be absent or we''ll lose dorm points."


    After that, Engelica left and Sonya was alone in the room.


    On any other morning when she overslept, Sonya would be hurrying to wash up, apply makeup, and get ready. But today, she sat numbly on the bed, lost in thought.


    It was so strange. It felt so real even though it was a dream. Even stranger that she had zeropses in memory, recalling everything vividly from her first death to her ny-ninth.


    Even the pain of each wound was fresh.


    Once the Observer entered dual de mode, their battle intensity instantly increased exponentially. Sonya barely had any chance to breathe before the Observer was upon her again. Her arms were nearly numb from exhaustion. By the end, she was basically relying on instinct to meet the Observer''s onught.


    Mikiri, iaijutsu, mikiri into iaijutsu, iaijutsu into mikiri, triple mikiri, triple iaijutsu... Sonya countered the Observer''s endless variations with just these two techniques, nearly exhausting everybination.


    When she finally defeated the Observer, she felt no particr emotion. In the end it was just endless mikiris and iaijitsus, evading all the Observer''s attacks and striking all his openings until he fell.


    But after defeating the Observer, Sonya felt no joy.


    Because the Observer had said one thing to her.


    "This trial is over, but your life has only just begun."


    Though she couldn''t see his face or hear his tone, Sonya was absolutely certain - this was no blessing.


    "Apocalypse Observer..." Sonya mulled over the name, as if crushing it between her teeth before swallowing it down.


    At the same time, in the luxurious master suite of the underground cells of Caimon City''s Shattered Lake Prison.


    Ashe yawned and awoke, feeling particrly exhausted for some reason, as if he had been beaten up.


    Opening the light screen, Ashe saw a new message in Aurora''s Sorcerer Handbook:


    "Your bond with the Death Maniac Swordswoman has deepened after the trial."


    Ashe scratched his head. "...Just assigning a trial can deepen bonds? There''s something like that?"

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    Outside the Swords and Roses University of Sorcerers in Cailleach, the capital of the Starry Lands.


    As summer approached, the number of bright stars in the night sky increased from two in spring to two and a half. Looking up carefully, one could see a tiny bright star. Thus the temperature in Cailleach rose and the bright light was just right - taking just a few steps would work up a light sweat.


    Sonya took small steps forward and saw her mother Masha standing under the bright stars, drenched in sweat. She pulled her into the shade of a nearby tree, distressed: "Mom, why are you standing outside foolishly? Don''t you know you can take shelter from the sun in the wooded paths inside the school..."


    Mashaughed foolishly: "Linda��I was afraid I wouldn''t see you..."


    "How many times do I have to say, call me Sonya, not Linda!"


    Sonya suddenly red up and Masha nodded obediently again and again: "Sorry, sorry, I forgot again. Oh right, I also brought your favorite egg custard tarts..."


    Seeing Masha''s appeasing expression, Sonya became self-reproachful again. She took her hand and walked her outside: "I won''t eat them, I''m trying to lose weight recently and can''t eat such sweet stuff."


    "You''re already so skinny, what are you losing weight for? Do you want to be as thin as a sheet of paper? Uncle Elmer, you remember him right? His son has been ill for so long without getting better, his body is as light as a scarecrow in the fields, you''re even thinner than him..."


    From afar, Masha saw Sonya''s figure that was barely thicker than a tree branch. She felt heartache beyond words. She had been a rural woman in an agricultural town of the Starry Lands all her life. She simply could not appreciate the fashionable slender figures of the big city, and sincerely hoped her daughter would be more robust.


    Sonya did not interrupt her mother''s chattering. When her mother finally stopped, she said: "Since you rarelye to Cailleach, let me take you around the capital..."


    "No need, no need!" Masha waved her hands hastily: "Don''t waste money, I saw a park over there when I walked over..."


    "You walked over!?" Sonya''s voice went up an octave: "Didn''t I tell you to take the tram here after getting off the train? The train station is so far from school--"


    "It''s fine, it''s fine. I came early so I had lots of time. Walking around counts as exercise for my health. I''m not that old yet, walking is no problem..."


    Only then did Sonya notice the sweat on Masha''s neck. The weather today was great and it wasn''t cold, students on campus were dressed lightly for summer, but her mother had taken the night train from her rural hometown where it was already cool autumn winds, so she had worn severalyers. Just walking for a bit had made her forehead sweat, her whole person looking like she had just been fished out of water.


    She wanted to tell her mother not to skimp on that bit of money, but what came out was: "Let me buy you some clothes."


    Masha shook her head reflexively: "There are plenty of clothes at home..."


    "Listen to me today!"


    Sonya Therave was from an impoverished vige in the Starry Lands so small it didn''t even have a name on the map. For her to take a train to the capital Cailleach, she first had to walk a full day on mountain roads to reach the nearest town with a train station.


    Among the vige children, in the past twenty years only Sonya, relying on the free miracle bracelet provided by the Lands, hadpleted the basic education courses on it. Before the age limit, she took the unified national higher education entrance exam online, sessfully testing into the Swords and Roses College of Sorcerers in Cailleach, known as the Swordflower College for short.


    Her father had drank himself to death when she was very young. In her memories, he was just a useless drunk who threw fits of temper after drinking. She had been fully raised by her mother Masha.


    Precisely because of this, she could temporarily be free frombor and concentrate on studying, unlike other children her age who went to factories to work in the day and watched the only Meteor Channel they could receive in the vige at night, muddling through life in that small town.


    On her first day in Cailleach, when she saw the clean streets, towering buildings, flowing luxury cars, polite and refined civilized people, propaganda shorts ying day and night on giant screens, she knew that even if she died, she had to die in this city.


    That hometown she had lived in for over ten years didn''t even have the qualifications to be her graveyard.


    In a short time she had learned about makeup and clothing matching. Within a month of enrollment she had already corrected her ent.


    Relying on her superior looks she obtained many part-time jobs, while not falling behind on her studies either. She then used her schrships and part-time ie to expand her social circle and participate in all kinds of activities... Adding to her hosting school events many timesst year which gave her great exposure, many already secretly considered her to be the Rose of the 67th batch.


    In this world there are so many who can obtain happiness, why can''t I?


    Sonya spent the entire afternoon taking Masha around Cailleach. Under Sonya''s insistence, Masha reluctantly followed her into an apparel store that looked very expensive to try on clothes.


    If not for her daughter, just the female clerk with her secretly disdainful smile would have been enough to make Masha shrink away.


    But in exchange for buying clothes, Sonya didn''t spend any money that afternoon. Masha had even prepared water in advance with a sk.


    "This is clean water provided by the train station, I can just drink this. Don''t buy those colorful drinks, I''m not used to them." Masha said.


    Even for dinner, Masha said she still had unfinished bread she had brought, it''d be wasteful not to eat it. Sonya knew bringing her mother into those upper ss restaurants would only make her suffer, so she sat with her mother in the park eating bread.


    Before 6pm, Sonya sent Masha to the train station.


    The return ticket had long been purchased and bound to Masha''s bracelet. She just had to scan her bracelet at the checkpoint.


    Just before the checkpoint, Sonya suddenly said: "Why don''t you stay one night, I don''t have sses tomorrow either, I can apany you another day."


    Masha stared nkly at Sonya, her lips moved but eventually she just shook her head, her eyes squinting into slits: "No need, refunding the ticket would waste money, and I can''t get used to staying here anyway, I can''t understand what others are saying, and I have to go back to feed the chickens... Oh right, look at my memory, I almost forgot..."


    She took out a small bag tucked away securely from her clothes. Without opening it, she stuffed it into Sonya''s hands: "There are three silver coins inside..."


    "Mom, I--"


    "I know you don''tck money, but I can''t spend this money at home either."


    Masha tightly grasped Sonya''s hand, "Mom is useless, I can''t help you with anything. But Linda, don''t worry, mom won''t drag you down. Feel free to live in the capital, I live very well in the hometown, neighbors will help me with anything. Just remember to write home, but never send money. Keep it to spend yourself, and the post office might steal your money anyway..."


    This time Sonya didn''t correct Masha calling her by her childhood nickname ''Linda'' again. She quietly listened to her ramble, suddenly understanding why her mother hadn''t gone into the school to wait for her. After Masha finished, she calmly said: "I will bring you to live in Cailleach one day and enjoy the life of the wealthy."


    Masha smiled and nodded: "Mom believes in you. But remember, no matter what happens, mom will have a meal ready for you back home. Big cities are tooplicated, living a quiet life at home isn''t so bad... "


    Sonya watched her slightly hunched mother walk farther and farther away until she finally disappeared into the crowds.


    Suddenly, she slid sharply to the right, dodging a man about to bump into her. The man''s eyes showed surprise and he mumbled something before hurrying away.


    "Indeed, big cities are tooplicated." Sonya murmured softly: "But I am precisely this kind ofplicated person."


    She turned away from the train station, walking with her head held high back into the bright and bustling sleepless city Cailleach.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    There was a traffic ident on the way back that forced the tram to stop for half an hour. By the time Sonya returned to the academy, it was already past 7pm - ording to the rules, Swordflower College prohibits entry after 7pm. If students returnte, they have to register their names. After umting threete returns, they will be given a thorn penalty and expelled from the academy if they receive three thorns.


    However, with Sonya''s soft exnation, the young gatekeeper directly let her in without registering her name. Noticing the prating, vulgar gaze from the gatekeeper that seemed to see through her clothes, Sonya smiled politely on the surface but scorned him in her heart.


    He really thinks that just because he is a gatekeeper at Swordflower College, he can get close to the pretty female students?


    Not even having such basic self-awareness, no wonder he is just a gatekeeper.


    Sonya was well aware since young that her beauty could bring her advantages, but it was not until she came to Cailleach that she realized just how much power beauty held -pared to that impoverished vige, the civilized people in the city were willing to provide more conveniences for beauty.


    At times like these, Sonya would sincerely thank the Starchild Archon, thanks to this archon developing the Starchild Dominion into such a prosperous and flourishing civilization, giving her the opportunity to squeeze into high society.


    If she was in one of those uncivilized nations without the Skydome, her budding beauty would probably have been seized as spoils of war by some barbarian when she was young.


    She was also grateful to her mother. If her mother had made her work in the fields instead of studying at home when she was young, no matter how naturally beautiful she was, she would have been weathered into a rough country girl by the wind and sun.


    Returning to the female dormitory, Sonya was about to push the door open when she heard Iris'' voice inside, "It''s past 7 already. That country bitch probably won''t being back tonight right? Hmph, finally revealing her true colors. She''s probably seduced some rich merchant."


    Oh? She just happened to run into the ssic scene of ''talking behind one''s back'' in a dormitory drama? Sonya immediately stopped and quietly listened to Iris'' impotent rage.


    Adele spoke up hesitantly, "Stop it, Iris...she mighte back any moment..."


    "Let here back! I want to scold her shamelessness to her face!"


    Iris got more and more angry as she spoke, "Haven''t you seen her flirtatious behavior, making eyes at others even during ss? A country bitch from the countryside, other than a pretty face, what''s so impressive about her?"


    Hmph, being prettier than you is impressive enough.


    Sonya sneered coldly in her heart. Of all her roommates, Iris disliked her the most. Iris came from a local merchant family in Cailleach and was full of pride in her looks. She normally made veiled insults about Sonya''s lowly origins. But Sonya was prettier than her - when they appeared together, the number of boys who showed interest in Sonya exceeded Iris by an order of magnitude.


    In their first year, they still maintained superficial peace. It was only after Sonya sessfully outshone Iris and snatched an MC position at a school event that Iris developed full hostility towards her.


    Iris wasn''t innocent either. She organized several social events for the Hydromancy Department, even paying to treat her fellow water mages to meals at high-end restaurants, but deliberately excluded Sonya.


    After this disy of wealth, the number of pursuers towards Iris also increased.


    After all, both men and women sought shortcuts. Even though Sonya was pretty, marrying the rich beauty Iris could mean avoiding ten years of struggle.


    When it came to money, Sonya definitely could notpare. But she knew far too many ways to irk someone.


    Whenever a male pursuer appeared who Iris had some interest in, Sonya would deliberately create a "chance encounter" to have slight physical contact with the boy, plus give him some flirtatious looks. This was usually enough to entrance him, even abandoning his pursuit of Iris to chase after Sonya instead.


    The reason Iris exploded today was because yesterday, Sonya had "poached" a senior who had been pursuing Iris recently.


    To be honest, Sonya looked down on Iris'' taste in men. That senior was useless and full of himself despite his good looks. But in order to piss off Iris, she didn''t mind batting her eyshes at him.


    While Sonya would definitely reject their pursuit, could Iris really stand to be with ''trash that even a country bitch like Sonya didn''t want''? No wonder Iris was so angry she was screeching.


    "Speaking of which, I heard Tess say she saw Sonya talking to a peasant woman at noon outside the campus," Adele suddenly recalled. "Could that woman be her mother?"


    "Hmph, with such a shameless daughter, her mother is probably just as shameless--"


    ng!


    Before Sonya lost control and barged in to blow up at them, a loud metallic noise rang out from inside the room.


    She realized something and took half a step back. Right then, the dormitory door opened from inside and a blonde ponytailed girl carrying a sword bag appeared before her.


    "Good evening, Sonya," she said.


    "Good evening, Ingritt," Sonya replied.


    Ingritt left without even ncing back, probably to dote night training at the training grounds. Adele and Iris were still sitting inside looking shocked.


    On the training dummy that Ingritt had bought for the dorm room, there was an additional dent that Sonya had not seen before.


    After Sonya entered and closed the door, calm returned to the dormitory room.


    Since Ingritt had helped teach them a lesson on her behalf, Sonya naturally would not repeat it. But she made a mental note of this debt that Iris would have to repay in full with interest someday.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8


    Sonya leisurely opened Fundamentals of Water Magic while removing her makeup.


    Reading during makeup removal time was perfect, since removing makeup was troublesome. First she had to carefully remove every eysh with cotton swabs, then wash her eyes with eye wash. She had applied sunscreen on her arms today, and the body wash couldn��t wash it offpletely, so she bought a cheaprge bottle of makeup remover dedicated to removing sunscreen.


    After showeringter, she still had to do basic skin care, couldn��t skip the essence sprays, even her eyshes needed essence, otherwise they would fall out easily, and she didn��t have enough money for ��Perfect Glow�� eysh surgery.


    All together it took nearly an hour, if she didn��t make time to study during this, how could Sonya have gotten the schrshipst semester?


    She was also aiming to summon her first water spirit before next year, best before graduation, and fully manifest the Silver Wings, bing a one wing sorcerer.


    Although Swordflower College wasn��t a top sorcerer College in Cailleach, it was unmatched in nurturing swordmages, watermages, and windmages. As long as these three types of mages graduated normally, they had unlimited prospects.


    Among them, watermages often became healers because of their many rted healing spells, so it was also Sonya��s chosen major.


    After experiencing the prosperous world of Cailleach, Sonya knew relying only on herself, she probably wouldn''t get a foothold in this world for decades. So finding a good man as a shortcut into high society naturally became her first choice.


    Otherwise, why would she spend so much time, effort and money maintaining her looks, just to give some poor man a bargain?


    ording to Sonya��s research, among noble wives, over 50% were watermages.


    If the noble himself was a mage, this ratio could even exceed 70%!


    Watermages were undoubtedly a huge plus when nobles chose their wives!


    Compared to watermages, windmages often became weather mages, needing to work outdoors frequently in harsh conditions; swordmages were even more unsuitable, their strong physique was a minus for women...


    Sonya��s life n was very clear:


    Be a watermage, then find a way to participate in social events at the Trinity College of Magic, the top magic College in Cailleach, even the top College in the Starchild Archonate, and hook a young noble.


    Unlike Swordflower College, Trinity College was where the rich and powerful gathered. That was where Sonya��s future boyfriend would appear, none of the boys at Swordflower caught her eye.


    Be a watermage, get to know noble students from Trinity College, then enter high society as a noble wife, use the husband''s social resources to build a foundation for herself, so even if they divorced, she could still gain a foothold in Cailleach and bring her mother to live the noble life...


    "No, you should practice the sword."


    Hearing this familiar yet strange chaotic voice, Sonya''s right hand reflexively reached for her weapon.


    If not for her seated position limiting her movement, she would have directly activated shing Step to evade.


    But the next second, she came to her senses, looking at the strange person who had appeared out of thin air next to her in shock. He wore a dark coat and his face was obscured in shadows.


    "If I were you, I would first look at how others are reacting."


    The Observer leaned against the wardrobe, holding up a finger in a shushing gesture: "If you want to talk to me, think your words silently."


    Sonya looked towards Iris and Adele. Adele was tapping the air, clearly absorbed in something on her lightscreen. Just then Iris came out of the bathroom, passing by the Observer without so much as a nce, as if she couldn''t see his existence at all.


    Sonya lowered her head to look at the floor, and immediately understood - the Observer had no shadow.


    Barely holding back the urge to speak out loud, Sonya asked in her mind:


    "Who exactly are you?��


    ��I am called the Apocalypse Observer, you can call me Observer. If you are so forgetful at your young age, I can only rmend abstaining from lust..."


    "You know that''s not what I''m asking."


    "But that''s all I can answer you."


    The Observer said: "And you know, I used to hate when someone acted all mystical, especially when they dangled important secrets but had that ''you''re not ready to know yet'' attitude, it made me want to beat the crap out of them."


    Sonya stayed silent, only looking at the Observer.


    The Observer nodded: "Yes, just as you said, now I''ve also be that kind of mystical person, because - I discovered it is quite interesting. Especially seeing you obviously furious yet helpless, it really makes my visit worthwhile."


    "But isn''t this very normal? People often grow into what they most detest, or rather, more detestable people usually live longer."


    Sonya suddenly realized a problem, sending chills down her spine.


    "You can hear my thoughts!"


    "If I couldn''t hear your inner voice, how is this different from pantomime?"


    "But you can''t - you disrespect - even my mental freedom has been deprived by you!?"


    "Don''t worry, swordswoman, I''m not your enemy." The Observer said: "I''m not even aplete person right now. If you strongly demand it, I can refrain from appearing before you."


    "Then what exactly are you?"


    "I''m just a distant memory." The Observer shook his head: "Too distant, let''s get back to business. To be honest, soon you won''t care that I can hear your thoughts."


    "What business?" Sonya recalled the cruelty in her dreams.


    "First." A blue potion suddenly appeared in the Observer''s hand: "You will drink this."


    "No, I won''t drink it!" Sonya immediately rejected.


    But to Sonya''s horror, she saw the liquid in the ss bottle visibly disappearing, while at the same time feeling it slide down her own throat!


    "Then." The Observer held out a wooden sword: "You want to go practice the sword."


    "No, I don''t want to!"


    The Observer was right, Sonya no longer cared that he could hear her thoughts.


    Compared to controlling her speech and actions, listening to thoughts was trivial.


    Even with all her might, Sonya could only watch herself take the wooden sword, then -


    Swish!


    Hearing the grating sound of the wooden chair dragging across the floor, Iris and Adele looked over, just in time to see Sonya''s back as she left the dorm with the wooden sword, mming the door loudly.


    "What''s her problem?"


    Iris muttered softly, but immediately realized it made her seem petty, so she scoffed loudly: "Hasn''t practiced swordy in a year, suddenly going to train tonight? Must be trying to hook up with some senior swordsman!"


    Adele blinked, somewhat puzzled: "I don''t remember her ever buying a wooden sword before, Ingritt doesn''t have this style either, where did she get it from...?"

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9


    "Ha!"


    With a shout, Ingritt raised her wooden sword high, stepped forward, and poured all her strength into the sword as she shed down at the armor stand in front of her!


    Crack!


    With the sound of the armor stand shattering, Ingritt''s wooden sword stopped at the edge of the ninth ring.


    Ingritt pulled back her wooden sword and resumed a stance of vignce, using the breathing techniques taught at school to expel a cloud of white mist, quickly recovering her energy.


    ''At this rate, I should be able to summon my first sword spirit this month,'' Ingritt thought.


    As a mage academy with hundreds of years of history, Swordflower College had various guiding techniques for training mages. Training props like these armor stands in front of Ingritt were specially made to teach novice swordsmen.


    The armor stands looked like wooden posts on the outside, but had a hard core with ten rings marked on them. When a student could cut into the tenth ring of the core with one stroke of their sword, it meant their swordsmanship was good enough to summon their first magic spirit.


    Generally speaking, swordsmen could summon three types of primary magic spirits - the ''sh Sword'', the ''Thrust Sword'', and the ''Cut Sword''. Ingritt, who was training in shing techniques, naturally wanted to summon a ''sh Sword Spirit''.


    Ingritt took a second or two to catch her breath. By now, the armor stand had recovered to its original state, as if Ingritt had never cut into it at all.


    This was the power of Swordflower College''s training grounds - no matter how badly damaged, all the training props would quickly recover. As long as you had the energy, you could keep attacking the stands. After all, it wasn''t the stands that would eventually crawl out of the grounds on shaky legs.


    Boom! Just as Ingritt was continuing her shing training, she suddenly heard the doors of the training hall burst open. She couldn''t help looking over, distracted. Although the hall echoed with the shouts and exertions of the trainees, this was normally a very orderly ce, and it was rare for anyone to make a scene here.


    Anyone who dared to cause trouble here would promptly have several dozen swordsmen trainees with pent-up fighting spirit looking to have an ''intimate chat'' with them.


    In the previous term, Ingritt had a few persistent suitors, but they never dared approach her in the training hall. After all, any behavior that disrupted training, Ingritt only needed to frown slightly for the hot-blooded trainees around her to immediately step in to uphold justice.


    Hot blood, reticence, pugnacity, full of male hormones - these were the hallmarks of the training grounds.


    There was a famous joke at Swordflower College: "Some guyse to train the sword at first to pursue girls, butter end up training just topete with other guys in swordsmanship. Maybe it''s not that love loses to power, but thatpared toplicated love, simple power is easier to pursue?"


    But tonight,plicated love had strode unbidden into the domain of power.


    A silky ponytail the luster of a ruby appeared in the doorway, skin so fair it dazzled, features so exquisite they seemed sculpted by an artist, a slender waist you could circle with one hand, long straight legs.


    A rose that by all rights should have bloomed at a soir��e had abruptly blossomed here amidst the forest of swords.


    But what caught the trainees'' attention most was what she held in her right hand - a wooden training sword.


    "Sonya?"


    As Ingritt watched Sonya cross half the hall and take up position at an unused armor stand, raising her wooden sword to begin training, her mind was full of questions.


    Although she didn''t harbor any ill will toward Sonya, in her understanding, Sonya was the kind of person who would never touch swordsmanship.


    Unlike the elegant, floating female swordsmen portrayed in the "Fantasy Epics" and "Knight Dramas" screened on the Cineramas, real-life female swordsmen had to train their physiques to be even stronger than males in order to summon spirits, master spells, and acquire techniques.


    Calloused hands from swinging swords were a given, and their arms, legs, even waists would be more muscr and developed from the training. Like those beautiful actress with their pretty little hands performing dazzling swordsmanship on the Cineramas, they simply did not exist in real life.


    Even magic spirits would never acknowledge physically weak mages. Stories of magic spirits escaping when swordsmen grew old and feeble were ubiquitous in Ingritt''s childhood.


    Although some said female swordsmen possessed a ''powerful beauty'', in Ingritt''s observation, the number of male students pursuing watermages like Sonya and Iris far exceeded those pursuing female swordsmen.


    She had to admit, delicate watermages like Sonya and Iris just looked better and more refined than masculine female swordsmen like herself.


    But she wasn''t dissatisfied with this. After all, while Ingritt trained, Sonya and the others would be putting on makeup and skincare. Everyone obtained what they pursued.


    So Ingritt was very surprised now - if Sonya was just beginning swordsmanship training at this point, wouldn''t she be abandoning all her previous efforts? Not only would it set back her progress in the watermage disciplines, it would also affect the looks she took such care to maintain.


    However, when Ingritt noticed a handsome youth not far from Sonya, still in full training gear despite the heat, wiping away sweat, she immediately understood.


    Felix Vlozrada, a first-year like them and genius swordsmanship trainee.


    Without a doubt, Felix was trying to summon a stronger spirit than Ingritt''s basic ''sh Sword'' - the Vlozrada family''s secret spirit, the ''Vibration Sword''.


    A mage''s first spirit was of utmost importance, potentially deciding the path their training would take. Noble families who could, would find suitable cultivation methods to have their prodigies summon the strongest, most suitable first spirits.


    Even country nobles like Ingritt''s family had secret cultivation methods for summoning family spirits, just not suitable for her.


    The ''Vibration Sword'' was undoubtedly stronger than the ''sh Sword'', and Felix''s cultivation undoubtedly surpassed Ingritt''s - his swordsmanship and training intensity were far beyond their peers, earning him the reputation of #1 genius swordsman of their grade.


    In the final swordsmanshippetitionst term, Ingritt had lost to Felix, but she epted it sincerely. Her opponent was not only more talented, but worked harder than her too. Felix fully deserved the title of genius swordsman.


    But even more than his talent with the sword, what set the girls gossiping was Felix''s background.


    Even though Ingritt was from the countryside, she knew the Vlozradas were top nobles on Twinstar, one of the Five Pirs of the Twinstar Assembly.


    Duke Vlozrada, also known as the "Starforger Duke", controlled Twinstar''s most advanced steel factories, with interests spanning civilian, military, and government sectors. He could be called the most influential person in the nation.


    As the Duke''s second son, Felix should have attended the Trinity College, so no one knew why he hade to Swordflower College instead. Many secretly guessed he was out of favor with the Duke.


    But even as an out-of-favor son, Felix was still a scion of House Vlozrada, securely in the top echelons of society. Naturally there were many who wanted to use him as adder to climb the ranks.


    And Felix''s social skills were as outstanding as his swordsmanship - he seemed to have a different girl on his arm every week, changing partners faster than he changed clothes.


    At his busiest, Ingritt had even seen five different girlsing to the training hall looking for him on five consecutive days. It made her half-admire, half-scorn his stamina - how did he find the energy for these trysts after such intense training? She could barely melt into her own bed afterwards.


    With top skills, good looks, and many scandals, Felix was without doubt the center of attention in the training hall. If Sonya had any special motives, her only possible target was Felix.


    But when they had been on good terms as dormmates, Iris, Adel, and Sonya had explicitly stated that they kept their distance from Felix.


    After all, nobles like Felix inevitably ended up in political marriages arranged by their families. If they got their hopes up chasing him, they would just end up as insignificant members of the ex-girlfriends club.


    Although Ingritt, more of a romantic, didn''t like their tant pragmatism, she agreed their assessment was right - none of Felix''s girlfriends hadsted more than a week all year.


    Wasn''t Sonya here for Felix? But other than Felix, there was no one else here who could catch her eye...


    Just as Ingritt was pondering this, Sonya had already begun training in earnest.


    "Ha!" Matching her shouts to her breathing, Sonya shed at the armor stand but failed to even cut into its surface.


    Ingritt observed for a while and shook her head repeatedly: Sonya''s main hand was unsteady, her off-hand weak, her footwork sloppy, and her body sluggish. None of her moves had any semnce of proper form.


    She hadn''t even changed into training clothes more suited for movement, still wearing her usual fine garments.


    Even her shouts sounded coquettish rather than forceful.


    Rather than training, it was more like she was here to attract attention.


    Whatever her aim, it definitely wasn''t training.


    Ingritt ignored her and continued her own training. Swordsmanship emphasized the unity of mind, body and technique. Focus was paramount - every stroke had to be executed with total concentration, gauging how much strength to use, how much to keep in reserve, the rotation of shoulders, flicks of wrists, shifts of feet... Only when every detail was clear could a stroke be consideredplete.


    cking off was meaningless. A mage trainee''s every effort was not for others, but for themselves.


    Only when the trainee''s skill could stir ripples in the astral ne, could they summon a spirit from nothingness, crossing over reality to obtain the pass to enter the astral domain and be a true Sorcerer.


    At Ingritt''s current level, she needed a short rest every three strokes, a longer rest to rx her muscles every thirty strokes, and nine hundred strokes in two hours constituted oneplete training session that would tire her enough to fall asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow after her bath.


    "Ha!"


    "Ha!"


    "Ha!"


    A few minutester, Ingritt could no longer restrain her anger and looked over at Sonya in dissatisfaction - in just those few minutes, she had heard Sonya make nearly dozens of strokes without any rest, basically fooling around.


    It was natural for Ingritt to get angry, like if she was taking a difficult, serious exam and a frivolous student received the paper and started writing without even reading it, saying things like "This is so easy!" "Piece of cake!" "Can anyone really not do this?", the other students would definitely feel he was disrupting things.


    What Sonya was doing now was equivalent to that disruption.


    But just as Ingritt was about to go warn Sonya, she realized she might be mistaken - although Sonya''s moves were still clumsy and amateurish, every action strictly adhered to the requirements of the Swordsmanship Manual, exerting all her strength in each stroke with sweat streaming down her forehead. She wasn''t just messing around randomly.


    Also,pared to a few minutes ago, Sonya''s swordsmanship had improved noticeably. Her wooden sword could even cut slightly into the outer ring of the armor stand!


    Although she was still lowering the quality of training in the entire hall, she seemed to have some foundation now - at least several months of practice!


    "Did she practice swordsmanship before?" Ingritt wondered.


    However, Ingritt still believed Sonya had note to train - wasting stamina like this, Sonya would surely copse from exhaustion in a few more minutes without achieving any training effect. It might have a fat-burning effect at most.


    I see - she must be here for body sculpting! I''ve heard of that!


    Ingritt suddenly felt she understood Sonya''s aim, but also felt Sonya wouldn''tst much longer.


    Even Ingritt, who had trained for years, could only make 256 strokes at a time for 11 minutes.


    For a swordsmanship novice like Sonya, it was already impressive to keep swinging without rest for minutes.


    Just then, feeling a bit tired herself, Ingritt stopped to take a break and secretly counted Sonya''s strokes, intending to go over and give her some pointers when her form started breaking down - although she didn''t think Sonya would switch to the swordsmanship track, if she could raise Sonya''s interest in swordsmanship even a little, that was still good.

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10


    "How many minutes has it been?"


    "Ny-six minutes. Did anyone count the strikes?"


    "I started counting from the beginning. I got to around 1,700 when I saw her sword pierce the seventh ring. I was stunned for a bit, but I think it''s around 2,400 now."


    When Sylvia opened the door to the training hall, she saw an unbelievable scene��the swordy students who were usually drenched in sweat swinging their des had all cast aside their training swords and gathered in a circle, discussing something unknown.


    She thought they must be gathered around her boyfriend Felix, and figured he must have finally summoned his "Vibration Sword" spirit.


    With this thought, she hurried her steps, pondering where they should celebrate��the Amber Club, or maybe the Golden Gulf Bar?


    But Felix must be exhausted now, so why not just go back to his ce and "properly rest" with him? They''d known each other for so long, yet he still held back from taking the next step. Sylvia felt it was time she took the initiative.


    However, when Sylvia reached the crowd, she realized she was mistaken��because her proud, handsome boyfriend Felix was also just a spectator in the crowd, wearing the same dumbfounded expression as the other ordinary students as he stared ahead.


    Following their gaze, Sylvia saw there was an even prettier girl than herself training in the hall: her hair casually tied up revealed a fair, delicate neck, and even the sweat beads running down her natural, exquisite face shimmered like pearls.


    Friend and foe, she sensed it immediately, even before the girl had said a word.


    The "first love" look that seemed bare-faced but used meticulous makeup techniques, the seemingly casual yet perfectly revealing dress, the seemingly in essories that wlessly entuated her beauty...if not for intensive research and preparation, how could anyone fake such a nearly perfect, dream girl image that ticked all the right attraction boxes for men?


    One look confirmed it��she was a fellow huntress!


    With this thought, Sylvia immediately narrowed her eyes. Disregarding Felix''s sweat, she clung possessively to his arm.


    In her view, there was no better prey in the entire training hall, no, in the entire Swordflower University, than Felix.


    Even including Trinity College, Felix was a top-tier catch. Just gaining the Vlozrada family name would bring Sylvia endless benefits.


    She had schemed over Felix for a long time, and even knowing he was a yboy, she had full confidence in tying down this wild stallion.


    Used well, his fickle ways weren''t necessarily a bad thing��as long as she gained a wife''s status, she didn''t mind if he fooled around.


    She was finally nearing her harvest after working so hard. Felix even nned to introduce her as his partner at his birthday banquet. Now someone wanted to swoop in and steal her prize? Not a chance!


    "Felix, what are you all looking at?" Sylvia asked casually. "I didn''t know there were such pretty juniors in the swordy department."


    "Sis, you''re here." Only now did Felix notice Sylvia''s arrival, but his eyes didn''t nce at her even for a second, as if the training girl was all he could see. "She''s...she''s not from the swordy department. She''s a freshman water mage named Sonia Therave."


    He even knew her name and year... Sylvia''s sense of crisis grew. She wanted to drag Felix away immediately but also knew the value of ying hard to get. Feigning curiosity, she asked, "Why are you all watching her train? Because she''s pretty?"


    "No...not just that..." Felix shook his head. "Since you''re not a swordy student, I don''t know how to exin it to you."


    "I cross-studied swordy for a few months freshman year before focusing on water magic where I had more talent. And you''re a swordy genius - with you exining, how could I not understand?" Sylvia huffed.


    "Alright, let me exin simply." Felix said, "An hour and a half ago, she was still a newbie who didn''t even have proper swordholding form. But now, she can already pierce the ninth ring on the armor stand."


    "She must be faking it, right?" Sylvia didn''t say this out of malice, but from her few months of swordy training, she understood the significance��even she could only pierce the second ring, which was above average among new students.


    "That''s what I thought at first, what I hoped to see, which is why I watched her train - I wanted to see her hit a bottleneck, I hoped to see her make no more progress...But after an hour and a half, my petty jealousy has turned entirely to admiration."


    Sylvia could hardly imagine Felix uttering such humble, sincere words. Even when speaking of his father the Starforger Duke and his brother Demian, his tone was aloof and indifferent.


    Yet for a girl he barely knew, he showed admiration and curiosity - dangerous signals. Curiosity often led to infatuation.


    And he had watched this girl for a whole hour and a half...?


    He watched for an hour and a half, so the huntress named Sonia had trained for a full hour and a half!?


    Only now did Sylvia closely observe Sonia''s training: gliding steps, sword swings at the face - steady as a boulder, fast as lightning...every action precisely ording to the Swordy Manual, no cheating or relying on force, putting her all into each strike!


    Normal people needed to rest every few minutes of training, while Felix at moststed three hours, one hour of which was rest and rxation. But by their ount, this girl had trained continuously for over an hour without any breaks!?


    This exined why they were all spectatingpared to ogling a beauty, these buff swordy guys were probably more curious about attaining such terrifying stamina.


    After watching a while though, Sylvia also joined the crowd, unable to resist staring at Sonia''s form.


    Her motions contained the aesthetics of swordy, of strength, of maidenhood. And scarier still, she seemed to improve every second, each swing stronger, more precise, and more skillful than thest.


    It was artistry, an artistry of swordy.


    At this moment, Sylvia admitted total defeat.


    If this girl Sonia really wanted Felix, she had virtually no chance of victory.


    She knew well Felix''s obsession with swordy. If her appeal as an "intelligent, beautiful senior" scored 80 points with Felix, then Sonia''s "sword prodigy beauty" type was a solid 150.


    ng!


    When Sonia''s wooden sword pierced the tenth ring of the armor stand, everyone gasped together, the air in the training hall practically chilling��they had witnessed a miracle!


    An utter novice upon entering had, after two hours of uninterrupted training, seeded in piercing the tenth ring!


    Even if she did nothing else from now on, the moment she resonated with the virtual world''s knowledge, she would summon a swordy spirit, step into the virtual ne, and be a virtual wing sorceress! In a second if fast, or months if slow!


    It was known that not everyone at Swordflower University became sorcerers, with graduation rates hovering around 50%. Every graduating virtual wing sorcerer had a bright future!


    Which meant as of this moment, Sonia could be certain of a secure livelihood for herter years!


    At the same time, Sonia also put away her wooden sword, easing the heavy stone in everyone''s hearts��the monster in a beauty''s skin had finally tired.


    If Sonia had trained further, they would have truly suspected girl''s clothing provided stamina boosts. Even now it was outrageous - a full two hours, averaging thirty strikes per minute, totaling three thousand six hundred strikes...just calcting this number made the swordy students'' scalps tingle.


    At this time Ingrid hurriedly went over to hand Sonia a towel and water, ready to support her back to the dorm.


    When Sonia had swung one thousand times, Ingrid was already won over, for the first time pondering getting closer to her��what sinister intentions could a swordy trainee have?


    "Sonia, you must be tired too. Let''s head back together?"


    Going back together, going to the bathroom together, eating together...this was Ingrid''s only method for getting closer.


    Sonia, feeling nearly melted into the floor, epted the towel and lightly rinsed her mouth, giving Ingrid a look of relief. Just as she was about to agree, she suddenly felt energy course through her limbs, reinvigorating her.


    Her expression also froze as she stared fixedly at Felix in the crowd.


    It was practically a hunter eyeing prey.


    The other swordy students sighed silently, Sylvia gritted her teeth resentfully, and Felix lifted his chin slightly, giving Sonia a confident smile.


    The reason for these reactions warmed the heart, because in Sonia''s eyes, the observer stood right behind Felix.


    The despicable little trumpet waved his finger and said:


    "Swordswoman, you can''t rest yet."


    "Next," he pointed at Felix, "you must defeat him."

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    "If I did wrong, let thew punish me."


    Even in this situation, Sonya did not lose herposure and yell. Instead, she calmlyined in her heart to the observer: "You make me practice swordsmanship, make me fight with Felix, what exactly do you want me to do? Infiltrate the Starchild aristocracy and be your spy? "


    "It''s not asplicated as you think," the observer said, "I just want to arrange a fight for you, and he is the strongest person here. It just so happens that he is an aristocrat, even better, I especially like to see aristocrats get beaten up. If possible, after you win, can you step on his face... Forget it, I heard some Starchild aristocrats are perverts, you should just spank him... No, forget I said anything."


    "Then can you change to someone else? I don''t want to get involved with Felix!"


    "Why?"


    "I did some research on him," Sonya said. "He''s weird and dangerous."


    As the most essible young master at Swordflower College, Sonya naturally took Felix as a hunting target. But after some investigation, Sonya gave up this seemingly tempting option.


    It had nothing to do with his yboy attributes. Sonya did not think that ''fickleness'' was an obstacle for her. What really stopped Sonya was Felix''s family situation and his ex-girlfriends.


    Although it was rumored outside that Felix was the walking breeding machine for the Ten Noble Daughters, after simple observation, Sonya discovered a secret - Felix never actually spent the night out with a girlfriend.


    Felix lived in an off-campus vi. Every night after training, he would drive off campus. His ride "Galloping Silver Tiger" was unique on campus. Sonya asionally saw it at night too. He never took a girlfriend from school at night, always going home alone.


    Of course it was also possible that he preferred daytime, but Felix changed girlfriends every three days, including nobledies. Sonya didn''t really believe he could eat them up in just three days.


    Rather than promiscuity, it was more like he was collecting stamps.


    Secondly, as the son of Duke Vlozrada who ended up at Swordflower College, it was hard not to suspect that he was involved in some political struggle.


    Sonya had no interest in struggling up with him. She hoped to catch the newly emerging nouveau riche young master. That way she could coast along and also have a lot of room to maneuver. With skillful means, dividing up family assets was not impossible either.


    Adding up various factors, Sonya''s interest in Felix could be said to be tepid.


    She had a whole forest, naturally she needn''t hang on this one tree, and she even had to stay away from him - part of the reason was that Sonya had never dealt with aristocrats before. Her knowledge of aristocrats all came from novels.


    And in novels, apart from the male protagonist, all other aristocrats were invariably the great viins who oppressed the good and relied on power tomit evil. Aristocrats who were not evil enough would even be kicked out of the aristocracy and bemoners.


    The always cautious or pessimistic Sonya naturally did not think she could meet good aristocrats. And Felix, with this image of a traditional aristocrat who was clearly more viinous, naturally kept Sonya at arm''s length.


    ��So if you fight him, you��re likely to get into trouble?��


    ��That��s right!�� Sonya quickly said, ��I don��t know what you want me to do, but I��m so weak now, I should develop first. I should keep a low profile if I can, I shouldn''t����


    ��This is as good as it gets,�� the observer said. ��I want you to get into trouble. I want you to be high profile all the way, annihting all enemies standing in your way... And isn''t this your wish too?"


    "I don''t have such a childish and arrogant wish!" Sonya yelled.


    "Then," the observer bowed, "I wish you victory in your first battle, thrashing the swordsmanship genius and kicking the Starchild aristocrat."


    "No, I absolutely won''t��"


    "Felix Vlozrada, genius of the Swordsmanship Department."


    Sonya raised her wooden sword, pointing at Felix, and said in an arrogant tone she would never use: "In all of Swordflower, only you are qualified to be the stepping stone for me to summon spirit."


    "Dare to fight me?"


    There was amotion in the training ground, and the sword learners looked expectant. Westilia almost bit her lips bleeding - indeed, her target was also Felix, and Sonya was directly engaging with Felix in such a cliched but effective way!


    Ingritt said in astonishment, "Sonya, you just trained for two hours. Even if you want a swordsmanship match, you should wait until tomorrow..."


    "No, it should be now." Felix walked out of the crowd, staring tightly at Sonya. "Two hours, three thousand six hundred swords, from swordsmanship basics to mastery. You are the most talented person I have ever seen, and the second person to make me feel fear. If I don''t ept your challenge now, when I wake up tomorrow, I won''t even have the courage to draw my sword in front of you."


    "Now is possibly my only chance to defeat you. Even if others think I took advantage of you when you were unprepared and tired, I don''t care - at least after defeating you tonight, I still have the qualification and courage to chase your shadow!"


    "And you''re right, in all of Swordflower, only I am worthy of your challenge. Those senior swordsmen in the virtual world, they can only slowly umte virtual world''s knowledge. They simply cannotpare with you and me. e on!"


    As he spoke, arge open space had emptied in the training ground. The two stood at opposite ends gripping training swords.


    Sonya used the mostmon mid-position posture, while Felix held the sword in one hand, lifting it high to the side in a seemingly full of openings posture.


    "Vibration stance..." Even though Ingritt was a little worried about Sonya, she couldn''t help but look forward to their match.


    The Vlozrada family was known for its swordsmanship and had four secret stances that could summon spirits. The vibration stance was one of them.


    In swordsmanship factions, stances were cultivation methods, summoning methods, andbat methods.


    Or rather, the reason swordsmen could summon spirits was because they had sufficient insight into thebat cultivation of that swordsmanship stance, thus evoking the resonance of the virtual world, turning virtual world''s knowledge into spirits.


    Every basic spirit a swordsman could summon independently meant he had perfectly mastered the corresponding swordsmanship stance.


    Felix had alsopeted with others before, but because Ingritt was focused on learning (unpopr), she didn''t get the news. So this was the first time she had seen the legendary vibration stance, and she couldn''t help but be tempted, thinking about finding an opportunity topete with Felixter.


    At this moment, she noticed Sonya''s cheeks were red and she kept making eyes at her. Ingritt was a little puzzled, and after thinking about it a bit, she understood - Sonya was showing off to her that she could be the first to see the vibration stance!


    Although you guys are geniuses, I will definitely catch up to you!


    Ingritt clenched her fists and gave Sonya a cheering gesture.


    Sonya was utterly helpless - weren''t her signals for help in her eyes obvious enough? Why didn''t Ingritt hurry up and carry her away!


    "What''s the point of you controlling my body to fight like this? Even if I win, it''s you who won, I''m just a bystander," Sonya said in her heart. "If you just want to manipte my body, do as you please, I can''t resist anyway."


    "Butst night you let me go through the trial in the dream, and let me train swordsmanship. You wanted me to grow, right? How about this, give me back control of my body, I promise I will fight, even one is not enough, I can take on two, how about that?"


    "You think you have a say? That one plus one equals two?" The observer standing next to Ingritt said, "And who told you it''s me controlling your body to fight?"


    "If it''s not you then it''s me?"


    "It''s you yourself." The observer walked over to her and lifted the tip of her sword a little higher: "Do you think I just randomly picked someone to fight you? Do you think I can really disregard your will and forcibly control your body?"


    "Why did you train swordsmanship? Becausest night you defeated me in the dream, you realized your talent for swordsmanship. You know you have the opportunity to gain power. You know more than ever that you''ve wasted too much time."


    "So you came here and pushed yourself to the limit, just to let others see, to let your roommate Ingritt see that apart from your looks, you also have talent to be proud of!"


    "Why did you challenge Felix? From the first time you saw him driving the Galloping Silver Tiger through campus, saw him surrounded by admirers, saw him be the hot topic of the school, you were already jealous of him, envious of him, hating him. You can''t resent the mother who raised you through hardships, so you can only resent people like him with a family background and status far above yours."


    "What right do they have to obtain everything just by being born? What right do they have to be better than you in everything?"


    "Don''t lie to your heart, swordswoman," the observer said. "It''s you who wants to defeat him, it''s you who wants to prove that you, Sonya Therave, are no worse than anyone!"


    "It''s you who came to the training ground, you who gripped the wooden sword, you who wants to shine brilliantly! Everything stems from your true heart!"


    "In fact, I''m very curious why you would think I''m controlling you. After all, except for you, no one else can see me. Don''t you find it strange? Don''t you doubt...whether I really exist as an observer, or am I just an illusion projected by your mind?"


    "I''m done. Now you can push all responsibilities onto me, and...enjoy trampling the genius guilt free!"


    Bang!


    With a loud noise, the two raised their swords and charged at each other, fighting fiercely!

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12


    ng! ng! ng!


    The sound of swords shing rang out like a steel symphony. Felix was somewhat surprised - the training sword he was using was made of ck iron ebony, one of the finest choices even for a real weapon.


    Yet his opponent was using nothing more than an ordinary wooden sword, and had exchanged dozens of strikes without it breaking or splintering, either the wood was of an unusually hardy quality or their swordsmanship was highly skilled.


    He suspected both were true.


    The instant his opponent dropped back on defense, Felix''s eyes glinted sharply. Gripping his sword high he shed down with full force, pivoting his body to add momentum, making it look from the outside as if he was ''sliding'' at high speed. The ebony sword crashed down like a shockwave!


    Yet he struck empty air!


    Just like thest few times, right before his attacknded on the opening in his opponent''s defense, Sonya would make an extremely bizarre footwork maneuver, interrupting all motion to abruptly slide along the ground, barely avoiding his killing blow by a hair''s breadth every time. Then--


    He turned to see Sonya''s tranquil, icy gaze and the fading afterimage of her wooden sword shing back at him!


    ng!


    Felix quickly swung his sword to block the blow, growing more anxious by the second. Although Sonya had yet to injure him, he could feel the increasing pressure as she became more familiar with the Fluctuation posture.


    At first Felix thought that continuous heavy attacks would be enough to defeat this suddenly appeared swordy genius.


    He didn''t expect that in addition to the Starchild posture, she had also mastered a bizarre footwork that allowed her to evade his certain-hit attacks again and again. While Felix had more or less figured out her rhythm by now, at the same time Sonya had also grasped the essence of the Fluctuation posture, effectively narrowing the gap between them!


    In addition to that, she had a mastery of barehanded de-drawing skills.


    Compared to the Fluctuation posture however, the instantaneous explosion of barehanded de-drawing was still somewhatcking. Felix actually hoped she would engage him with barehanded de-drawing, since the reverse recoil alone would be enough to shatter her wrist. But after being burned once Sonya simply abandoned barehanded de-drawing, focusing wholeheartedly on contending with Felix.


    Felix didn''t want to drag this out any longer, nor could he. Even if he dragged it out until Sonya was exhausted, that would just be a hollow victory.


    And with that gorgeous and alluring body of hers, it seemed she had endless stamina. He felt that if it dragged on, the one worn out wouldn''t be her, but himself!


    It was time to end this!


    Without looking for any particr opening, he abruptly took a step back, once again assuming the Fluctuation posture, deeply exhaling a mouthful of stale air as he stared at Sonya like a sword.


    "Next move, lose and fail!" His tone allowed nopromise.


    "Very well."


    The next second, the observing crowd revealed looks of astonishment, while Felix''s face was filled with fury!


    Because Sonya was holding her wooden sword high in her right hand, body turned sideways to wee the opponent, looking exactly the same as Felix--she had actually assumed the Fluctuation posture!


    No one believed Sonya had learned the Fluctuation posture, first of all she had just witnessed it earlier tonight, and even if she had observed Felix training before, it would be impossible to learn it--Felix trained in the drill grounds every day, everyone could see the details of his practice, yet who among them had managed to secretly learn the hidden teachings of the Vlozrada family?


    A posture involved not just the movements, but breathing methods, footwork, and specific details in exertion of strength. Just watching was far from enough to learn it. Even if someone taught you, not everyone had the talent toprehend it--every faction that could enter the virtual realm had extremely high barriers to entry.


    Therefore, the only reason the crowd could think of for Sonya mimicking the Fluctuation posture was one--to taunt Felix!


    Nothing was more insulting than using your opponent''s own moves to defeat them.


    Clearly the taunt was very sessful. Felix''s face had turned nearly ck with anger, yet he said not a word.


    Only Sylvia couldn''t help but cheer silently--using this method to taunt and provoke Felix, he wouldn''t be able to forget you even if he wanted to. She never imagined there would be such a cunning girl among the first year hunters, it was a lesson for her as well...Next, you should arrange your defeat to give Felix a way out, naturally agreeing to future contests to increase your interactions, right?


    "You''re just humiliating yourself!" Felix shouted furiously. Stepping forward, turning his body, his single-handed swordshed out like a whip, smashing down like a meteor, flowing relentlessly downward like spilling water!


    No fancy naming of techniques, the core concept of this move was a single ''Break''--putting his full might into smashing apart his opponent''s defense!


    Felix targeted Sonya''s knees, he had noticed her bizarre footwork always had some telltale sign from her knees. He could predict her evasion direction from the movements of her knees, then adjust the angle of his sword ordingly, determined to shatter her resistance in a single blow!


    But beyond his predictions, Sonya did not evade. Instead she used the exact same move as him--advancing step, turning the body, swinging sword crashing down!


    Meet the fiercest head on with the fiercest!


    ng!


    Following a teeth-grating thunderous boom, the two crossed by each other. The crowd held their breaths, waiting for the oue.


    Snap.


    The tip of Sonya''s wooden sword broke off, falling to the ground.


    This was no surprise to the crowd, as they saw a swordswoman manifest above Felix''s shoulder, the most eye-catching detail was her sword formed by ck light--the Fluctuation sword spirit!


    "A breakthrough in the heat of battle! So mid-fight breakthroughs really do happen!"


    "Summoning your innate spirit in the midst ofbat!"


    "As expected of a Vlozrada!"


    Iris hurried over to support Sonya,forting her, "Don''t lose heart, you''ll be able to summon your own spirit soon. Then during the next match..."


    "I didn''t lose." Sonya stated lightly.


    The crowd was stunned, thinking Sonya was just unable to ept the loss of face. But the next second, Felix''s ebony sword also snapped apart with a crack, falling to the ground.


    Above Sonya''s shoulder, a swordswoman also appeared. Unlike Felix''s however, hers was female, and her sword was formed from white light.


    "Fluctuation sword spirit!?"


    "How did she also summon the Vlozrada''s Fluctuation sword spirit, could it be..."


    "She learned Felix''s Fluctuation posture mid-battle, then directly summoned it?"


    "How is that possible..."


    "Wait, isn''t that saying she went from novice to swordmaster in the course of a few hours?"


    At this notion, the crowd was nearly knocked senseless--many of them had spent years without reaching swordmaster level, yet Sonya managed it overnight?


    The crowd''s envy, Iris'' astonishment, Sylvia''s jealousy, theplexity in Felix''s eyes...


    But Sonya had no mind to care about any of that.


    She stared straight at the Observer who was standing to the side watching, a look on her face that said ''I already know the truth''.


    In her heart she asked: "You mean you''re just a figment of my psyche, not a real existence? You just represent my inner thoughts? You''re just my delusion?"


    The Observer did not speak, only squatted down to pick up the broken sword that had fallen to the ground. He then pressed it to the break in Sonya''s wooden sword, wiping lightly with his hand, and the wooden sword was restored as if it had never been damaged, not a single crack visible.


    Even having performed such a miraculous deed, no one noticed him, no one even noticed the restored wooden sword.


    He pped his hands, turned, and walked outside, leaving Sonya fuming with rage at his parting words:


    "You guess?"

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13


    "The Death Maniac Swordswoman haspleted a sword training session, greatly increasing her sword sect experience."


    "The Death Maniac Swordswoman haspleted a sword training session, greatly increasing her sword sect experience."


    "The Death Maniac Swordswoman haspleted a battle, greatly increasing her sword sect experience. Her talent has activated, gaining an extra 10,000% experience. During the battle, she resonated with the virtual world, summoning the spirit sword ''Vibration Sword''."


    "Vibration Sword"


    "One Wing Spirit Sword"


    "Limitation: Must use a sword weapon"


    "Base Effect: Releases a sword qi wave"


    "Passive Effect: Makes it easier for normal sword attacks to disrupt the target''s bnce."


    "''The sword is not shaking, it''s just thirsty.''"


    Perhaps this was the first time since starting college that Ashe had such a healthy routine - he got up at six o''clock sharp, checked the Death Maniac Swordswoman''s training status in the Sorcerer''s Handbook, waited expectantly and full of hope.


    The game did not disappoint him. In just one day, the Death Maniac Swordswoman had made significant progress!


    "Death Maniac Swordswoman"


    "Human �� Female �� 18 years old"


    "Trust Level: 0 (30% EXP sharing)"


    "ss: One Wing Swordmage"


    "ss Trait: 10% less spiritual power consumption when using sword spirits"


    "Equipment: None"


    "Controlled Spirits: Vibration Sword"


    "Sword Sect: Silver Rank"


    "Virtual World Exploration: 0.000%"


    "Water Sect: Not Started"


    Although he didn''t know what a One Wing Swordmage was, Ashe recalled that the Blood Mad Hunter who had blown him up with one sword seemed to have three wings, which meant that having wings represented bing a transcendent.


    Since the swordswoman had be a transcendent, as the diligent yer who had painstakingly cultivated her into a talent, shouldn''t he be rewarded with that 30% EXP sharing?


    However, no matter how Ashe waited and refreshed the game info panel, he did not get the enlightening EXP imnt and knowledge infusion he imagined. The Operator interface for [Apocalypse Observer] also did not change at all.


    At this moment, Ashe''s mood was like that of an immature elementary school student who had paid money to a scammer for a permanent QQ membership but got blocked instead. The rising hope from his greed was swallowed up by thick disappointment.


    After thinking about it seriously though, he suddenly realized that he seemed to have missed a step: "Could it be because I didn''t recharge money..."


    Theirpany''s games were famously stingy with gamey experience without recharging money, and even after recharging the experience still might not improve. If parts of the gamey were castrated because he didn''t recharge money, that would be quite normal.


    If it was just not recharging money, that would still be easy to remedy.


    If it was because various modules were lost during the transmigration, causing the functions to fail, then the game system he was relying on could only be used as a moe girl dream factory...


    "Dear Mr. Ashe Heath, Shattered Lake Prison haspleted your life verification. You may move freely in designated areas, please check the attached ''Shattered Lake Prison Life Manual'' for details. Note: Meal delivery service is no longer provided, please go to the cafeteria for meals yourself."


    At the same time, a green light lit up above the fist-thick door, disying a small ''pass'' person icon. Melodic singing floated in from outside.


    "If hurt enough, then take a pair of hands, and freely cut open, yesterday''s curses. When night waits for daylight, what''s left are the scars..."


    Damn, what kind of song was this, used to mock the prisoners?


    Ashe was stunned for a moment, not understanding what was going on. He opened the ''Shattered Lake Prison Life Manual'', and each item he read made him suspect it was an April Fools'' prank message specifically to mess with new inmates:


    "1. Free activity time is from 7am to 10pm daily, you may enter and exit the following areas: Central Hall, Reading Room, Gym, AV Room, Ocean Viewing Roof, Couples'' Room (provides supplies), Workshop, Cafeteria..."


    "2. Cafeteria opening hours are: 7am - 9am breakfast, 11am - 2pm lunch, 5pm - 8pm dinner. To eat outside of opening hours, please use the meal ordering service."


    "3. Reading Room: To request missing books, please register with the administrator, will be added within 3 working days attest."


    "4. AV Room: Currently only provides movies and shows that can be legally purchased. Ongoing productions will be provided after finale airs."


    "5. Couples'' Room: Please ce used items in the recycling bin, do not wash and return them yourself."


    "6...."


    One after another there were many prompts, almost all introducing how to use the various facilities in the prison, making Ashe feel like he was a temporary inmate here on a one-day prison sightseeing experience.


    What surprised Ashe the most was that this manual wrote about the rights prisoners have, but didn''t mention any prohibited acts at all.


    It was as if anything goes for them.


    Things out of the ordinary must have an ulterior motive, but now with no more meal delivery, Ashe couldn''t keep staying in his cell and starve to death. Also, he was very curious what kind of prison this was.


    When he got to the door, it automatically slid open. Outside was a very quiet and clean corridor, and surprisingly without even a single guard. On the wall was a very conspicuous sign:


    "Central Hall ���� Equipment Gym, Steam Room"


    Just looking at the sign, Ashe could imagine the cells next to his were definitely full of muscr macho men working out and steaming every day... Recalling the couples'' room as well, Ashe involuntarily clenched his buttocks, thinking he''d better just eat and return to his cell.


    Coming to the central hall, it suddenly opened up brightly. The central hall was a very spacious area, with a ss ceiling skylight freely spilling morning sunlight onto the benches below. There were potted nts on both sides, a few people sitting on the benches, some chatting, some reading, even someone sleeping on a bench... If not for their prisoner uniforms, Ashe would have thought he came to a park.


    And most surprisingly, there was a uniformed guard on duty nearby.


    Although he seemed to be cking off ying with a light screen, just his existence relieved Ashe - at least there was someone he could call for help.


    Although Ashe was thinking about how to escape, right now he was truly aplete waste of physical strength without any power at all, and possessed all the mental weaknesses of an overtime corporate ve. Withoutw enforcement protection, he didn''t even know if he could protect his own chastity - Heath''s body looked quite hot.


    On the front wall there was a light screen broadcasting news, seemingly some discussion at a council. Just hearing a few words made it sound boring.


    Ashe didn''t understand what was being discussed in the broadcast, because the conversation between the two people sitting on the front bench was more attention-grabbing:


    "I didn''t expect Lorenzo to be a councilor, looks like he also joined the Everlife Elixir club. Andrei and his faction havepletely overshadowed the mayor now, the mayor will probably have to resign after finishing his term this year..."


    "I don''t think so. Mayor Fernand Snow has Archbishop Enrico''s support behind him. Just you wait, not only is Lorenzo not a sign of Andrei''s promotion, he is instead the death knell for Andrei. In three days at fastest, one month attest, there will definitely be an important death in Andrei''s faction."


    "Andrei has been rooted in Caimon for decades, the Church wouldn''t take action to disrupt stability."


    "You forgot the suicide case of the Rail Department Head 15 years ago? ..."


    Listening to two inmates discuss changes in the political elite was already a very surreal experience in prison, and even more bizarre was that these two were a two-meter tall green-skinned beastman and a 1.3-meter short goblin.


    "If you''re interested in politics, I suggest you go to the reading room to chat with old man Ryan. Godore and Luddodo were just ministry and department secretaries before they came in, middle ranked positions, half-baked knowledge about politics, just useless drivel."


    "But Ashe Heath, esteemed leader of the Heretical Four Pirs cult, is also interested in Caimon city politics?"


    Ashe turned around to look at the blonde man next to him: "You know me?"


    "Of course, you were headline news at 7pm the day before yesterday and yesterday - news is the fastest way for us to get to know newpanions." The blonde man smiled and said, "Nice to meet you, perhaps you''ve seen me in the news too - Igor Bukin."


    "Ashe." Ashe took two steps back. "Are all the people here so enthusiastic?"


    "Yes." Igor frankly said, "We''re quite enthusiastic towards neers, after all we arepanions who share the same aspirations."


    "Same aspirations?"


    "That''s right." Igor nced at the guard on duty, reached his hand out to Ashe and said in a low voice, "Interested in joining our prison break research group, to be mutually supportive friends?"


    Ashe was overjoyed, this was just what he needed, he was just thinking of ways to escape from prison, didn''t expect there would be a ready-made organization he could join in the prison itself. He naturally eagerly extended his hand, "Of course..."


    "If I were you, I''d give him a punch."


    Suddenly, a cold female voice came from the side.


    Ashe looked over with the corner of his eye, and shockingly saw a girl wearing a fur coat, ultra mini skirt, stockings and boots, with a sword at her waist that looked like a prop to increase sex appeal, dressed very maturely... A girl?


    But he recognized her in the next moment, although the skin was different, this appearance was none other than the Death Maniac Swordswoman!?


    The swordswoman descends by my side?


    Ashe barely hesitated before turning and punching Igor!

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14


    Swish!


    "Warning: You are outputting excessive kic energy towards a citizen! This is prohibited!"


    Without Ashe having actively summoned it, a light screen suddenly jumped out in his vision, with red warning messages cascading past his pupils like a waterfall. The sharp rm sounds ringing incessantly in his ears instantly stunned him.


    What''s going on?


    Got infected by a virus?


    But I just got here and haven''t been on any mysterious websites yet!


    His body stiffened instantly,pletely unable to move, until three secondster when he regained control.


    "Looks like you''re really enjoying life at Shattered Lake Prison, Ashe. I''ll leave you to it then."


    Igor moved the fist that was nearly touching his nose away, smiling: "By the way, that limp, powerless punch of yours is pretty cute, Ashe."


    The other inmates in the hall nced at them, including the guards who seemed to temporarily shift their attention from their light screens to them. But everyone quickly looked away again, as if it was just a negligible minor incident.


    Looking at Igor''s disappearing back down the hallway, Ashe lowered his head to look at his own fist, full of confusion.


    "What''s there to be surprised about? It''s just the miracle chip in your neck detecting that you''re trying to assault someone, sending out neural currents to temporarily control your body and disable your attack. It''s that simple," the swordswoman said. "Aside from prisons, this tech also sees widespread use in the livestock industry. Looks like it''s even more practical when used on humans."


    "Then why did you tell me to hit him?"


    "While fighting is prohibited and arcane abilities restricted here, there are still many petty tricks that can be pulled," the swordswomanzily said. "Take contracting a spirit for example - if I''m not mistaken, that man has some subus blood in him. Subi are one of the races most adept at manipting the Mind sphere... If you had reciprocated his request and shook his hand to form a contract, it would be akin to bing ''mutual aid friends''.


    "Though of course, it would only be you having to help him while whether he helps you back is up to his mood. Hmm, in the eyes of telepaths, friends and ves aren''t too different after all."


    Ashe understood. If he had really shaken Igor''s hand just now, it would be equivalent to bing Igor''s employee, possibly even an intern.


    The other world is so sinister. They don''t even need you to sign an employment contract.


    Ashe looked around at the other inmates. "No one else can see you?"


    "You can keep talking to me like this. Just don''t mind others looking at you like you''re crazy and avoiding you like the gue." Swordswoman: "Though I''d rather hear pearls and jade fall from that dog mouth of yours than listen to the trash in your mind, a person has to lower their head when living under someone''s roof."


    Since the swordswoman''s words made too much sense, Ashe was persuaded.


    But he was clearly unconcerned with such details, looking expectantly at the swordswoman: "Swordswoman A-Meng, now that you''re here, help me break out of this prison!"


    "I refuse."


    "Huh?"


    "Why should I help you escape from here?" The swordswomanzily said, "There''s food and lodging here, isn''t this ce rather suitable for your kind of good-for-nothing to while away your time? Why are you always thinking of running away? The outside might be even more terrible. Just obediently start your early retirement here and live the life you''ve been dreaming of. Wouldn''t that be nice?"


    "But I''m carrying this huge crime on my back. I still have to attend this Blood Moon Tribunal thing in a few days. That doesn''t sound like I''m being invited to an all-you-can-eat buffet!"


    "Oh, the Blood Moon Tribunal..." The swordswoman nodded contemtively. "Hehe, then I have even less reason to help you escape now."


    Ashe was on the verge of a mental breakdown. He had thought he could finally hug some thick thighs, but the pantyhose on the thighs were so slippery he couldn''t get a firm grip: "You can''t do this. I''m your--"


    "I''m your what?" The swordswoman''s gaze instantly sharpened as she viciously jabbed a finger into Ashe''s forehead. "What were you trying to say? Hmm? What are you to me? Hmm?"


    With each jab, Ashe retreated a step until his back hit a bench and he sat down, leaning back but still unable to evade her finger as she fiercely poked his forehead. She leaned in, their noses almost touching as they stared into each other''s eyes. In her wine-red pupils, Ashe saw his own reflection.


    "Were you about to say, you''re my--master?" She asked in frigid contempt. "Heh, or did you want to hear me call you that a couple more times to give your perverted brain more material?"


    Ashe calmed down instead. "What''s wrong with that? You''re just a virtual character in a game. I''m the yer. If I die, you would naturally cease to exist too. Since this bond exists, why can''t you help me?"


    Upon hearing the word ''bond'', the swordswoman bristled like a stepped-on cat, her pupils filling with red veins as her expression turned gloomy and terrifying.


    Ashe jumped in fright but didn''t back down, sitting up straight and forcing the swordswoman back. "Death Maniac Swordswoman, I''m not your master, but neither am I your ve. If you can''t even treat me as an equal, you might as well crawl back into the game as data."


    The swordswoman''s mountainous chest heaved, showing her agitation. Just when Ashe thought she would beat him to death with her bare fists, she suddenly smiled. "A virtual character? You''re right, I''m merely an ephemeral consciousness... However, Observer, you best remember what you just said today."


    "You are not my master," the swordswoman enunciated word for word. "Never."


    Ashe: "I promise."


    "Swear it. Liars will lose their faces, never to change for 10,000 years."


    Though unsure why the swordswoman was so adamant, Ashe also truly didn''t harbor any worldly desires. He candidly said, "I swear, liars will lose their faces, never to change for 10,000 years."


    The swordswoman seemedpletely reassured, turning to leave. "Let''s go, we can talk while walking."


    "Go where?" Ashe perked up instantly.


    "To the cafeteria of course. Weren''t you going to eat breakfast?"


    "What about the prison break..."


    "To be honest, it''s not that I don''t want to help you, but that I can''t." The swordswoman said, "As you can see, aside from you, no one else can see or touch me. I don''t have the ability to influence the material realm, so how can I help you escape?"


    Ashe was greatly disappointed. "Then what''s the point of you appearing here? To show off your new skin?"


    "Didn''t you say it yourself? Our bond," the swordswoman said. "I''m here to pass that 30% shared experience to you."


    "Great!" Ashe was overjoyed. "Come on, I''m ready!"


    "What are you preparing for?" The swordswoman sneered. "Do you think there''s really some ''poof'' sound and then you''ll instantly gain all my sword skills and experience? If you wanna daydream go lie in bed and do it!"


    "Then how will you transfer them to me?"


    "It''s simple. You go find people to fight, and I''ll transmit the experience during your battles, letting you naturally obtain vast experience throughbat."


    "No problem!"


    By the time their conversation ended, they had arrived at the cafeteria.


    It was simr to a normal cafeteria, with fixed seating. As soon as Ashe entered, he spotted an extremely promising target: bald, tattooed, burly, muscr, scarred face, definitely a serial killer who had murdered hundreds to end up here.


    He strode over purposefully and pretended to identally bump into the bald brute''s cup, tipping the full cup of milk and spilling the white liquid all over the bald brute''s shoes!


    "Ah, sorry about that," Ashe said casually.


    The bald brute looked up to re at him, forcefully mming the table with one fist. The entire table shook from the impact, and he seemed about to stand up and fight Ashe!


    Ashe swallowed nervously, just getting ready tomence his newbie first battle. But then he saw the bald brute take out a tissue from his pocket, squat down and wipe his shoes clean.


    "Remember to watch your step next time. The milk today is great, highly rmended," the bald brute said to the stunned Ashe.

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15


    "Get me some toast, a ss of milk...what''s that? Braised Lpork? I''ll have some of that too."


    Ashe picked up his tray and sat down, observing the people eating in the cafeteria.


    In addition to the prisoners wearing ssic skins, there were also many guards eating here. This prison didn''t seem to have a hierarchical system - the guards and prisoners looked equal, or rather, the guards didn''t care about the prisoners at all, and the prisoners wouldn''t deliberately provoke the guards either, creating a harmonious prison.


    Ashe could understand the guards not caring about the prisoners - ckers will be ckers, it''s human nature. But why were the prisoners also avoiding the guards?


    After all, smart people wouldn''tmit crimes, so the people locked up here must be foolish idiots, like a certain cult leader arrested by some cops (hunters).


    By that logic, the prisoners must also be dumb, but why didn''t they taunt and mock the guards?


    "Because they''re locked up, obviously," said the Swordswoman, poking at the braisedlapork as she sat down next to him. "Your necks all have restraining chips that forbid you from attacking or insulting others, or harming yourselves. That''s why this Shattered Lake Prison is so free - your every bone and nerve is in shackles and chains."


    "Look, there are even propaganda posters on the wall about ''building a civilized prison,'' with photos of death row inmates posing with students. Seems they''ve had great sess with prison education here, even having school field trips."


    Ashe instinctively touched the back of his neck, eyes wide. "This - this is like having a bomb imnted in my neck -"


    "Do you really have to talk so loudly?" The Swordswoman pointed at the prisoners looking over curiously at the noise.


    Ashe immediately stuffed his mouth with toast: "So as long as I have this chip, I can''t even escape? There must be a tracking function too!"


    "Not just that. If they want, they can even make the chip emit a strong electric current to stop your heart directly," said the Swordswoman with a shrug. "So you''re right, theoretically you can''t escape from this prison. Forget escaping, even if you try to dig a tunnel with a spoon, the chip will stop you from damaging public property."


    "Theoretically it''s impossible, so what about actually?" Ashe drank some of the surprisingly sweet milk.


    "Actually...also impossible," said the Swordswoman, rolling her eyes. "How would I know so much when I''m not from here? I don''t even exist."


    "Then where did you get that information from earlier?"


    "Your AR folder had a Shattered Lake Prison Encyclopedia that I browsed when I was bored. But I''m just an AI from a game, how would I know anything about this world?" said the Swordswoman.


    Ashe was taken aback. Troublesome - she could ess other files in his augmented reality. And here he''d wanted to check if this world had any mysterious yellow-ck websites...


    The Swordswoman flicked his forehead sharply. Her virtual attacks sure hurt a lot!


    Ashe looked around and saw the bald muscr man had also taken some milk. He went over and sat across from the man - emboldened now that he knew the others couldn''t attack him.


    "Hey, I''m Ashe. What''s your name?"


    "Hey Ashe, I have a boyfriend," the bald man replied genially.


    Ashe was stunned. He felt the nearby guards and prisoners look over at the words too, and quickly exined, "No no, not like that! I just have some questions to ask you!"


    "I understand, really I do," the bald man nodded understandingly. "It''s always awkward when you try to hit on someone who proactively discloses they''re in a rtionship upfront. But my love for my boyfriend is pure and true - there''s no room for doubt or jealousy. So I make my stance clear from the start, which is better for everyone. You seem like a good guy too Ashe, I''m sure you''ll find love someday."


    "I...didn''t...I just..."


    "Go ahead and ask," said the bald man with an encouraging look. "No need to feel awkward over a failede-on, it happens. If you can''t think of questions to brush me off for now, take your time. But honestly Ashe, your approach was so clich�� - even deliberately knocking over my milk like a grade schooler..."


    Well, the evidence was damning and Ashe couldn''t deny it.


    He suddenly felt the stares around him grow strange. Ashe opened and closed his mouth before finally giving up on exining himself. "I wanted to ask, is there a way I can fight around here?"


    The bald man looked surprised. "You''re new? Oh right, you''re that cult leader who''s been all over the news recently..."


    "Well, I am quite interested in your Four Pirs cult. Too bad I have a boyfriend, or else I could''ve given you a chance..."


    Ashe couldn''t take it anymore and wanted to just leave, but the man''s next words made him stay: "If you''re looking to get some exercise, then you''ve found the right person. Oh, I haven''t introduced myself yet. I''m Langna, a member of the Deathmatch Society."


    "Deathmatch Society?"


    "Because of the chips, we can''t harm each other. But the Deathmatch Society has permission from the warden to temporarily unlock our chip limits and fight during deathmatches - it''s an exclusive privilege for society members."


    Ashe was quite surprised. "The prison even allows this? How humane."


    Langna shook his head. "But there''s a price for doing this, the biggest being where our group''s namees from."


    "Deathmatch?"


    "That''s right," said Langna, drinking up thest of his milk and licking his lips clean. "If you join a deathmatch, it has to end with one side dying. No rest until death in the deathmatch."


    Ashe blinked. "But...the prison uses so many methods to restrain us. Would they allow us tomit murder?"


    "If someone dies, it doesn''t mean you killed them," Langnaughed. "The medical room is right next to the deathmatch stage. As long as the corpse is intact and died within five minutes, they can be saved there. Of course, no guarantees on side effects."


    "And even if a prisoner really dies, the prison won''t care. Because here, every single prisoner is condemned to die."


    This line had an ''if you kill them, they die'' feeling. Ashe nodded along, "Right, people do die eventually."


    "Hm? You seem to have misunderstood me," Langna looked surprised. "Haven''t you heard of Shattered Lake''s reputation outside? And the Blood Moon Tribunals on the 1st and 15th every month?"


    "Ah?"


    "Every single prisoner in Shattered Lake is a condemned criminal. No appeals, no escapes, deprived of political rights for life," said Langna calmly.


    "After being jailed here, we can eat well, sleep well, exercise, watch movies, y games. The only thing not allowed is depriving anyone of life - even your own. Because what awaits us is always just one ending��"


    "To participate in the Blood Moon Tribunal, and die in the cruelest way imaginable in front of all eyes."

 Chapter 16: The Contribution of a Death Row Inmate

    Chapter 16: The Contribution of a Death Row Inmate


    Although he had expected it, Ashe still couldn''t help but feel his heart skip a beat when he heard that the Blood Moon Tribunal was indeed a death sentence.


    Deep down, he had still harbored some fantasy that perhaps the people here would recognize he was not actually the leader of a heretical cult, or perhaps he would still have to go through a lengthy trial process, or maybe there would be a two-year reprieve from execution...


    These fantasies had peaked after entering the prison, because in Ashe''s eyes, how could death row inmates possibly have such nice private bathrooms in their rooms?


    How could death row inmates be allowed to move freely within the prison?


    How could death row inmates receive so many privileges from the prison?


    Langna''s wordspletely shattered all of his naive hopes - it was precisely because they were going to die that the prison treated them so well.


    "The prison raises us like livestock just so we can die a more miserable death?" Ashe said with difficulty. "Isn''t that a waste of resources?"


    "Would youin that fireworks are not shy enough?" Langnaughed. "I''m surprised you don''t seem to know much about the Blood Moon Tribunal - it''s a live broadcast event held in every city that most citizens watch at 8pm on the 1st and 15th of each month. The ratings are close to 70%."


    "Incidentally,pared to the advertising revenue generated by the Blood Moon Tribunal show, the cost of keeping us in prison is negligible."


    ''Watching executions'' was actually a popr program in this world...


    Ashe twisted his mouth. "It''s simply outrageous that 70% of people can watch entertainment shows at 8pm and not have to work overtime... I see they just don''t have enough work saturation..."


    Langna was not at all surprised by Ashe''s impotent rage.


    He had seen far too many death row inmates reveal their ugly sides as the Blood Moon Tribunal approached - ranting against social systems, cursing the ignorance of the masses - if you spend enough time in this prison, you''ll naturally witness it all.


    "But if you want to escape the Blood Moon Tribunal, there are ways."


    Ashe immediately perked up. "What ways?"


    Langna did not equivocate and spoke bluntly. "Although someone inevitably dies at each Blood Moon Tribunal, eight people go, and the eight spots are not fixed, but ranked ording to ''contribution level''."


    "Each death row inmate starts with 50 contribution points, and 10 points are deducted each month. But it doesn''t matter if it goes down to 0, the prison won''t do anything to the death row inmates."


    "However, the higher the contribution level, theter the trial sequence, while those with lower contribution levels and earlier trial sequences are the eight who participate in the Blood Moon Tribunal."


    "Theoretically, the first eight in sequence are the participants in the Blood Moon Tribunal."


    "There are many ways to earn contribution points, the simplest is by creating value. Although all our memories have been extracted by mnemonists before entering prison, rendering our intelligence worthless, we still have many ways to make contributions:"


    "Some came in for embezzlement and corruption, they can provide suggestions for improving the system to reduce future corruption;"


    "Some came in for illegal experiments, they can continue doing legal experiments and writing papers in prison;"


    "Some are talented individuals, some have even written bestselling books while in prison, which naturally counts as creating value."


    "But in this prison, most are those who came in for murder and have an innate aversion tobor and inclination for plunder - like me," Langna pointed at Ashe, "like you."


    "So how do we earn contribution points? The Deathmatch Society is our answer."


    Ashe realized something. "You said earlier that participating in deathmatches requires a price..."


    "In addition to death and pain, the biggest price of deathmatches is the transfer of contribution points," Langna said. "Both sides must stake a certain amount of contribution points for each deathmatch. The winner escapes the Blood Moon, the loser faces the Tribunal."


    "If the Blood Moon Tribunal is the final stop on the road to death, then the Deathmatch Society is the sea of blood along the way - almost every death row inmate will eventually participate in deathmatches, gambling away theirst points, draining theirst drops of blood, before finally stepping onto the live studio in the most desperate state."


    "This is how we make our contributions - culling the weak, maintaining the brutality!"


    "It''s also why the prison allows the Deathmatch Society to exist." Langna''s voice was as calm as if discussing someone else''s affairs. "Actors must put on makeup before going on stage."


    Actors have to put on makeup, otherwise the audience won''t enjoy watching.


    Even without ever watching the Blood Moon Tribunal, Ashe understood Langna''s meaning.


    It was just like how they made borate character portraits for their mobile games - the so-called ''deathmatches'' were the process of turning death row inmates into portraits: gambling, fighting, despair, fear, agony... Nothing brought out the brutality in people more than ''battles with their lives at stake''.


    When a death row inmate bes hysterical from pain after losing many deathmatches, devolves into despair and madness from fear, he bes a ''main dish'' ready to be served. What is then presented to the audience is a beast full of brutality, fighting spirit and despairing terror.


    Compared to a numb and lifeless ''person'', a ''beast'' that still seems to dare resist is naturally more entertaining to watch killed.


    It was a conspiracy, one the death row inmates could not refuse.


    Not only did the losers be the ''products'' the prison needed, sold for a ''good price'' on the livestream, but the winners were also just drinking poison to quench their thirst, eventually also ending up on the livestream, walking the same path to death.


    From the beginning, the death row inmates had only one oue - squeezed of all value by the prison, then killed. The private bathrooms, good food,prehensive facilities, were all just to fatten them up.


    The trial sequence was actually just a rat race mechanism, everyone engaged in zero-sum games, either you go to the Tribunal, or I get executed.


    But this was also reasonable, who made themmit crimes and be death row inmates?


    Besides, if death row inmates didn''t want to be exploited, they could just lie down and die. It was because they wanted to live that they would race each other.


    If Ashe was outside the prison, he would certainly apud this mechanism while eating melon seeds on the side.


    Too bad that Heath had to y cult leader, and such a weak cult leader at that, dragging him into the depths of prison, forcing him to find another way to survive.


    "After hearing all this, do you still want to join the Deathmatch Society?"


    "Of course!"


    Langna was not surprised. He burped after finishing his milk. "Thene with me. If we''re lucky, we can still catch a glimpse of a fresh steaming corpse."


    "People duel in the morning?" Ashe asked curiously.


    "Although deathmatches require staking contribution points, it doesn''t require staking a lot of points at the start. The first match only needs 1 point, and each subsequent match must be 1 point more than the previous one. 2 points for the second match, 3 points for the third, and so on."


    "Although the stakes gradually umte, even losing the first five matches leaves room for aeback. So everyone tries to make use of those first five matches to gauge others'' strength and determine their own strength in prison."


    "Thus the frequency of deathmatches is quite high, one a day ismon. We''re close to the 15th, those near the end of the sequence definitely want to use deathmatches to escape the Tribunal, so I estimate the bloodstains on the deathmatch stage won''t dry these few days."


    "Speaking of which, do you want to buy meat?"


    Ashe blinked. "Meat? What meat?"


    "The meat that falls on the stage. It''s one of the few ways we can spend contribution points. The meat that falls on the stage already belongs to the prison, we can buy it back from them."


    Langna nced at Ashe, baring two rows of pale, even teeth. "If we''re lucky, we can buy thigh meat. Whether making sashimi or cooking it, the texture is amazing, highly rmended."

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17


    Ashe''s first impression of the Deathmatch Society was that it was dimly lit.


    Unlike the brightly lit prison elsewhere, there was very little lighting in the Deathmatch Society. Aside from the wrestling stage illuminated by fluorescent lights at the center, the spectator stands around were almostpletely dark, as if the audience was submerged in darkness, with only the two fighters left struggling on the stage.


    This was the ce Ashe saw the most number of inmates. Along the way here with Langna, they had only met a few sporadic inmates. When they passed the library and the gym, Ashe caught sight of a dozen or so inmates. However, upon entering the Deathmatch Society, despite theck of bright lights, just from the whispers he could hear with his ears and the vague shadows in the darkness, Ashe could tell there were almost a hundred people here!


    "Langna, you came?"


    "A new guy? Oh, the leader of the Four Pirs. Impressive, young man, to even get in touch with the Four Pirs."


    "The gourmand Langna is here!"


    "Langna, is that your boyfriend? You changed your taste!" A burly man teased with a snicker.


    "Desmond, if you say nonsense like this again to ruin the rtionship between me and my boyfriend, do you believe I will bite you to death!?" Langna angrily retorted, though he didn''t sound truly angry, but rather somewhat shy.


    However, theughter around them quieted down. The burly man named Desmond hurriedly put his palms together and apologized, "Haha, Langna, I didn''t mean that. By the way, why not introduce the new guy?"


    Langna humphed, seeming to have decided not to pursue the matter further, so Desmond finally let out a sigh of relief and hurriedly shrank back into the crowd.


    Seeing this, Ashe silently distanced himself a little from Langna.


    He had already sensed that if he randomly picked out a bald man who looked "weak and easy to bully", that person could very likely be the notorious killer in this prison.


    "Ashe Heath, just came in a couple days ago. He wants to participate in a deathmatch, so I brought him to take a look," Langna said with augh. "Who''s fighting now?"


    "��Diamond�� Taig and ��Blind Beast�� Ruduo."


    "Ruduo, how could he... Oh, Taig is an old-timer after all, how could he not let go of even that bit of Contribution? Didn''t you guys challenge Ruduo?"


    "Of course we wouldn''t let go of this fat meat! But Ruduo hasn''t seen Taig in a deathmatch before, and felt Taig would be easier to bully. Moreover, Taig''s stakes were high, so..."


    Ashe walked up to the front of the spectator stands, watching the one-sided thrashing below on the stage �C the elderly white-haired old man was brawling bare-handed against the muscr, green-skinned beastman.


    Yes, it waspletely one-sided. Even though both sides were attacking unguardedly, the white-haired old man didn''t even flinch despite being punched by the huge, pot-sized fists of the beastman. His skin didn''t even show a red mark, as if the beastman was only using a baby''s strength to pound his chest.


    On the other hand, every punch from the white-haired old man was as heavy as a thousand pounds, producing the sound of shattering rocks whennding on the beastman, making one''s scalp tingle just from hearing it.


    When Ashe arrived, the beastman was already beaten brutally, without a single unharmed spot on his body. He had lost several teeth, and his eyes were swollen like slits.


    With a heavy blow, the beastman was sent flying several meters, smacking loudly against the wall and leaving a trail of blood as he slid down the wall, unable to get up.


    However, the white-haired old man nced up and rushed forward to continue raining down punches on the beastman.


    He was like a bath attendant scrubbing old mud, pounding away chunks of the beastman''s flesh and blood with each fist.


    Ashe couldn''t bear to watch: "Isn''t the win already determined? Why hasn''t it ended?"


    "Win determined? Not yet." Someone besideughed and said, "Try reaching your hand out."


    Ashe did as suggested and reached out his hand, only to feel an invisible wall of air. Ripples spread out upon contact with the intangible barrier, revealing the force fields suspended in the air thatpletely isted the lower stage and the surrounding spectator stands.


    "Only when one side dies or ispletely knocked out will the istion barrier dissipate. Then the medical staff will appear from that door and drag the corpse to the infirmary for treatment."


    The person pointed to a very inconspicuous door inside the stage: "As long as the barrier remains, you absolutely can''t let your guard down and must keep overwhelming and crushing your opponent."


    "Also, there is no surrender in the deathmatch. The loser only has two possibilities: death, or losing consciousness."


    "Don''t know how many arrogant fools who looked down on their opponents, thought this was just a friendly match, stopped mid-fight, and then got killed in reverse by the opponent, losing huge amounts of Contribution and rising to the top of the Judgment sequence in one go... Though that''s the purpose of the Deathmatch Society: transferring Contribution that doesn''t belong to you to those more deserving."


    Boom!


    Hearing this muffled punch, Ashe felt like even the hot pot base of the beastman had been punched out. He couldn''t help but ask, "Can he really be saved?"


    "He hasn''t lost consciousness yet. But even if he can be saved, it''d be no different from death. Look above."


    Ashe lifted his head, only then realizing the glowing area on the ceiling was actually a disy screen, showing:


    "Taig Noris bets 35 Contribution"


    "VS"


    "Ruduo Ya Attacks bets 5 Contribution"


    Ashe eximed in surprise, "The stakes are unequal! Why is Taig betting so much?"


    "As long as both parties agree, unequal stakes can still be set." The person slowly said, "And it''s rare for deathmatches to have equal stakes."


    "ording to the rules, every time you participate in a deathmatch, you have to bet more Contribution than the previous match. Taig has fought 34 previous deathmatches, so he has to bet 35 Contribution this time."


    "Then is this Ruduo''s 5th match?"


    "No, it''s his 10th. Every inmate starts with 50 Contribution points. With the rule of raising the bet by 1 Contribution per match, he bet a total of 45 Contribution in the first 9 matches, leaving only 5 for the 10th match."


    The person beside coldlyughed and said, "So if Ruduo loses this match, he will have zero Contribution left and can no longer earn Contribution through deathmatches. Unless he can pull out gold coins from his own stomach, he will forever be first on the Judgment sequence."


    Ashe nodded in understanding, and suddenly realized, "That means he lost all 9 previous matches!?"


    "That''s why he''s called ��Blind Beast�� Ruduo. He always chooses opponents he can''t beat."


    Boom!


    With a explosive bang, the beastman''s head seemed about to burst. At the same time, the screen on the ceiling dinged, disying the words "Winner Determined".


    The barrier around the stage vanished instantly, and the door below opened with three people in crow masks and ck robes entering the stage. Without even a stretcher, they directly dragged the beastman corpse away.


    "The old man is just too nasty, tricking the beastman out of his Contribution."


    "How is that trickery? I knew from the start the old man wouldn''t be easy to deal with. Ruduo isn''t just poor in judging opponents, his brain isn''t good either. Just use your toenails to think - which elderly, women, or children could possibly be nice people here?"


    "How many has this been for the old man?"


    "From the day I came in, the old man has taken out at least five."


    "Old man, you already have so much Contribution. Next time leave these opportunities to us youngsters. That beast was really something too. Since it''s just giving away Contribution, it''d have been better to give it to me."


    Amidst the noisy, bustling crowd in the darkness, the white-haired old man used a towel to wipe the blood from his fists. He suddenly coughed heavily twice, coughing out several mouthfuls of bloody phlegm, and cried out in terror, "That beastman''s fists were quite powerful. I think I''m injured internally..."


    "Who would believe you!"


    The crowd roared in unison. It seemed they had witnessed people falling for this scam before being tricked by the old man''s repeated pig-eating-tiger acts.


    "He is strong on this stage."


    Ashe turned to the right and saw the Swordswoman had appeared again.


    Moreover, unlike the others, theck of light didn''t affect her at all. She seemed able to glow on her own to dispel the darkness, sitting conspicuously on the railing.


    Even more oddly, she had changed into a different outfit that looked like a tight training swordy uniform with her red hair tied up, bing a gant female swordsman.


    Ashe blurted out without thinking, "Why is he so strong?"


    "Because only offensive rights are enabled on this stage, but arcane energy output is still restricted."


    The person beside and the Swordswoman spoke in unison.


    The Swordswoman nced at Ashe covering his mouth and continued, "There are many types of mages - crafters, warriors, schrs, healers... But most mages can only control magic spirits through arcane energy. As long as their arcane energy output is restricted, mages are no different from ordinary people."


    "But a small number of mages still possess strength superior to mortals even without magic spirits - those are the martial mages."


    "In general, any mage involved in physical cultivation can be called a martial mage, such as swordsmages, fistmages, gunmages, spearmages, axemages... With the right weapons, they can also fight multitudes. Butpared to physique, they only have a technical advantage and their physical fitness is not much better than ordinary people."


    "However, one type of martial mage strengthens their body, even modifying their flesh and blood structure with magic spirits, wielding themselves as weapons to obtain nearly crushing power. For this type of martial mage, even without magic spirits, the enhancements remain, and being in a prison that restricts magic spirits allows their advantage to be maximized!"


    "These martial mages are called - Masochist mages."


    "Their flesh and blood has been tormented until the body is no longer just flesh and blood."


    Ashe looked over and saw the white-haired old man brushing his fingers against the railing as he left the stage, actually scraping off kes from the railing!


    ''Diamond'' Taig...so that''s what it meant!


    "Now that you''re here, hurry up and start fighting." The Swordswoman said, "Just don''t fight that old man. Oh right, your first match should be against a bare-handed opponent, and you should be bare-handed too."


    "Why?"


    "Because your body is too weak. If you directly use a real sword, you''d probably be crippled after a few swings. And if the opponent only uses fists, you at least have a chance to spar for a few rounds, buying time forbat experience transfer." The Swordswoman said with arms crossed, "What I fear most is you getting your sword seized by the opponent and then decapitated in one move - to avoid such eye-poking scenes, go bare-handed for the first match."


    "I''m not expecting you to know how to fight, but you should at least know how to get beat up, right?"


    Ashe readily epted the Swordswoman''s advice and asked the person who had been chatting with him, "I''d like to participate in a deathmatch, preferably against a bare-handed opponent. Do you have any rmendations?"


    "Bare-handedbat? You''ve asked the right person, brother. I specialize in bare-handedbat. How about a match against me? I guarantee I won''t bully you."


    "Sure, sure! But since this is my first deathmatch, I can only bet 1 Contribution point. Even if you want to trick me, you wouldn''t earn much." Ashe joked.


    "Don''t worry, brother. I won''t only not earn your Contribution, I''ll even give you Contribution. I''m very weak, after all--"


    At this moment, the lights in the Deathmatch Society suddenly turned on fully, the darkness on the spectator stands swallowed up by the re, brightly lit.


    Only now did Ashe realize the "kind stranger" who had been chatting with him was actually a familiar face he had met not long ago.


    "After all, even you wanted to give my face a punch."


    Igor looked at Ashe and smiled, "We meet again, Ashe with the cute fists."

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18


    "The new cult leader is going to deathmatch with the ''Beauty Beast''!"


    "Beauty Beast doesn''t even let go of 1 contribution point?"


    "Could the cult leader have fallen for it already?"


    "Oh no, then it won''t be just 1 contribution point. Beauty Beast might get 50 contribution points this time..."


    Hearing the buzzing discussions from the spectator stands while bandaging his fists, Ashe showed a reluctant smile: "It seems you really are just pretending to be a pig to eat the tiger."


    "On the contrary, I feel like you''re the one hiding your strength to lure me into a trap." The blonde, blue-eyed, fair-skinned Igorughed: "You''re the leader of the Four Pirs cult who dared to oppose the Blood Mad Hunter. I''m just an ordinary fraud criminal. No matter how you think about it, yourbat power should be higher, right?"


    Indeed, before the deathmatch with Igor, Ashe had asked Langna about Igor''s criminal record.


    After all, almost every prisoner would first introduce themselves on the news channel, so the criminal records between prisoners were almost transparent. Just like how everyone now knew Ashe was the little cult leader taken down by the hunters.


    Igor Bukin, also known as ''The Deceiver'', worked in the insurance industry. He was jailed for defrauding many tycoons and obtaining arge sum of money. He was originally a psychic mage, possessing spirits like ''Covenant'' and a series of other mental maniption abilities.


    Although the prison theoretically prohibited the use of spirits, this ban was only a ''direct'' ban rather than a plete'' ban.


    For psychics like Igor who focused on mental cultivation, they could still trigger effects through rhetoric, suggestion, bodynguage and so on, just like how Igor extended that team invitation to Ashe in the hall. Once Ashe agreed, the spirit would silently imprint a mark on Ashe''s psyche.


    It sounded like Igor didn''t really have any directbat abilities, but��


    Ding!


    The lights around the Deathmatch Society dimmed again, leaving only the LED screen above the arena, attracting everyone''s eyes.


    "Igor Bukin bets 46 contribution points"


    "VS"


    "Ashe Heath bets 1 contribution point"


    In a deathmatch, everyone would only bet the minimum amount, which meant Igor had already fought 45 deathmatches!


    Moreover, ording to Langna, Igor had won all 45 previous deathmatches!


    So why did Ashe agree to this deathmatch?


    Because he had already agreed.


    When Igor jokingly asked Ashe to deathmatch, Ashe likewise responded jokingly with "Sure, sure", and at that moment, he had already fallen into the pit��he could no longer go back on the joke.


    It was hard to describe the feeling. It wasn''t his body being controlled, but his perceptions were modified. It was like having an absurd notion that ''water is lethal poison''. Ashe was certain he had to deathmatch Igor.


    He didn''t know what the consequences of refusing were, because the thought of ''refusing'' didn''t even emerge in his mind at all. It was as if even thinking about this freest thing was shackled.


    "So don''t casually respond to anyone''s invitations in the future."


    The Swordswomanzily leaned against the railing and said: "You''re the Apocalypse Observer. In my opinion, you should refuse all goodwill and malice from anyone, say ''no'' to everything, seize everything with your own power, dictate everything with your own will, and rule the world like a demon king��"


    "No!"


    "You little..."


    Just as the Swordswoman was left speechless, transparent barriers rose around the arena, signaling the official start of the deathmatch.


    With a ''ding'' ringing in his mind, Ashe felt a shackle in his body rx. The chips on their necks no longer restricted them from attacking each other!


    At the same time, Igor lunged forward, his agile body pouncing like a hunting leopard!


    Ashe immediately raised his arms to defend and evaded to the side, but Igor seemed to be able to predict his reactions early on, sweeping Ashe''s leg and tripping him face-first to the ground.


    Even as Ashe swiftlypleted the breakfall and got up, he still couldn''t evade Igor''s follow-up pursuit, taking a heavy punch to the gut that almost made him vomit bile.


    "Grit your teeth," Igor ''kindly'' reminded, before punching Ashe''s temple!


    Dazed by the strike, Ashe leaned against the wall, using his arms to protect his vital areas. But Igor seemed able to preempt all his actions, each straight punch and hooknding where Ashe failed to defend, soon leaving Ashe battered and stumbling around while being beaten.


    He shouted angrily in his mind: "Hasn''t the experience transfer started yet? I''m going to be beaten to death at this rate!"


    "Oww it hurts so much! Swordswoman, possess me and beat the crap out of this blondie!"


    "Swordwoman mommy, save me��"


    The Swordswomanzily said: "Coming,ing, the more you get beaten, the faster the experience transfers. And try fighting back instead of just taking hits!"


    "Does fighting back elerate the transfer?"


    "No, but it''ll make the fight look better. Watching you get one-sidedly thrashed is pretty boring after all."


    Although she said that, the Swordswoman was actually quite surprised inside.


    Ashe getting treated like a sandbag was within her expectations, after all this was Shattered Lake Prison. By participating in deathmatches here, Ashe was like amb voluntarily walking into a wolfpack. It would be strange if he wasn''t eaten clean.


    She had thought Ashe would reveal an unsightly appearance, kneeling and begging for mercy while bawling. But while battered, Ashe was doing his utmost: minimizing his strike zone by backing against the wall, protecting his face and neck with his arms, swiftly getting up after falling instead of lying on the ground to be pinned... What surprised the Swordswoman most was that Ashe hadn''t cried at all.


    As someone who lived sheltered in a greenhouse and never experienced bloodshed before crossing over, Ashe''s willpower was unexpectedly tenacious. He even had a certain degree of psychological modtion.


    He kept chattering away in his mind to converse with the Swordswoman, using the dialogue to alleviate the pain. And he wasn''t distracted either, his defensive motions bing more adept, his evasion reactions also getting faster and faster. It was simply...


    Simply like a continuously learning sponge.


    The Swordswoman suddenly felt that even without her, without the Sorcerer Handbook, after going through the baptism of his first crossing, Ashe could still quickly adapt to this seemingly beautiful yet cruel world.


    He wasn''t a weak person at heart. Once the environment changed, his true nature would be revealed.


    As expected... he was the Apocalypse Observer...


    p!


    Ashe felt like his arm bone was on fire, stinging hotly. The Swordswoman urged him to counterattack, and he was already quite pissed from the beating, even a mud man had a fiery temper, let alone Ashe who wasn''t the sort to take humiliation lying down.


    He had his own work style from his job, never talking back to superiors, but not taking any crap from colleagues either. He was capable, sucking up audibly when iming credit, so he also mixed quite smoothly in the workce, otherwise he wouldn''t have been appointed team lead for the new game''s operations team by the boss.


    Seizing the opportunity, he recalled the military fist he learned during military training and threw a charging punch!


    "So soft and cute."


    Igor tilted his head leisurely like he was shopping, an disdainful smile on his face as he exquisitely dodged the punch before mming his fist into Ashe''s face.


    "You!"


    "You��!"


    "You��you��!"


    Ashe couldn''t help but be unable to swear. Moreover, none of his punchesnded.


    Every one of Igor''s punches inflicted heavy damage on Ashe. No matter how Ashe dodged, he couldn''t evade Igor. Yet Igor only needed to twist slightly to avoid Ashe''s straight punch.


    To onlookers, they didn''t seem to be fighting, but performing��As if Ashe was deliberately offering his face to collide with Igor''s fist.


    "There it is again, Beauty Beast''s tricks."


    "Looks like the rest of the cult leader''s 49 contribution points will also go into Beauty Beast''s pocket."


    "Humph, always ying those shy tricks. If it were me��"


    "What would happen if it were you?"


    "If it were me, he''d be kneeling down to see if I''m still breathing!"


    "While we can''t beat Beauty Beast, Sir Taig definitely can!"


    The white-haired elder Taig hurriedly shook his head: "Can''t, can''t, youngsters get stronger with each generation. Us old folks will eventually be your stepping stones..."


    Hey old man, can you let go of the railing first before saying that? Everyone silently cursed. Suddenly someone looked towards Langna snuggling against a burly man''s embrace: "Langna, can you see through Beauty Beast''s tricks?"


    "Don''t know. And just talking is useless, you''d have to fight him to know. But I don''t wanna fight Beauty Beast, he''s not my type. Don''t worry dear, as long as you''re breathing, I won''t look at anyone else."


    The burly man being snuggled showed a forced smile amidst the darkness.


    In the deathmatch arena, Igor shook the blood off his fist and casually asked: "Do you know why I won all 45 previous deathmatches despite my mediocre physique and reflexes? Yet you just can''t hit me while I can always hit you?"


    Yes, from the earlier fight, Ashe realized Igor''s constitution was about the same as his. Forgetparing to freaks like ''Diamond'' Taig, even any random burly guy could restrain Igor. Despite being on the same level, Ashe couldn''t touch Igor except for the face.


    If Igor had great boxing skills it would be one thing, but Ashe sensed Igor''sbat level was ordinary. Otherwise Ashe wouldn''t havested this long.


    Clearly both were trash, so why could only you peck me?


    "I''ve defeated beastmen, ogres, many far stronger than me physically, yet they all fell in this arena, transferring contribution points that didn''t belong to them to me." Igor slowly said: "The reason you and them would end up in such a dog-eat-dog situation is for one reason only��"


    "You are all livestock."


    "Your lives never belonged to you in the first ce."


    "The moment you stepped onto the arena, the cor I prepared for you was already around your neck. Until I''ve squeezed yourst drop of contribution points, you are my livestock!"


    "The fate of livestock can only be one��"


    Igor looked down condescendingly at Ashe, sticking out his tongue to lick his lips as he revealed a cruel smile: "ughtered into pieces of delicious shapes by the owner!"


    "Go on, Ashe Heath. Don''t think of surrendering, there''s no such rules in a deathmatch. Don''t worry, I''m very gentle with my livestock. It''ll be over soon."


    Ashe straightened his back, twisted his neck, and spat out a mouthful of blood: "Yes."


    The Swordswoman watching also nodded andzily said: "It''s over."

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19


    Each era has its own theme song. In the mysterious pre-God age, the theme was violence, plunder, and destruction as all creatures fought over resources and gambled their lives to survive and reproduce.


    But in this age of Gods, Igor believed that the current theme was domination.


    Domination over others, organizations, culture, thoughts...


    Large scale wars were unlikely to happen again and people no longer expanded territories. Everyonepeted over existing resources, sses had solidified, the system became supreme, plunder was reced by more advanced exploitation, and all actions had to follow the rules set thousands of years ago.


    Pure violence without elegance was no longer suitable. Only romantic mental domination could thrive in this world.


    And when it came to domination, mind mages were undoubtedly the best choice.


    Although Igor was only a two-winged mind mage, in thisnd of Blood Moon where ss was predetermined at birth and the vast majority had no chance of essing the virtual world, he was practically an apex predator at the top of the food chain.


    The most dangerous knowledge was controlled by the Blood Saint and Moon Shadow tribes. Ordinary mages didn''t even know mind magic existed, let alone defend against it.


    Even Igor''s mind magic knowledge came from the awakening of subus bloodline in his body. He had subsequently found the important spirit arts ''Resonance'' and ''Fulfillment'' in the virtual world, transforming him into a mind mage.


    Plus, he was originally an insurance contract agent, possessing the basic spirit art ''Contract''. Thus, hebined them into a miracle tailored for sentient creatures - ''Actions Speak Louder than Words''!


    Whether it was a joke or a lie, once someone made an agreement with Igor, he could use ''Resonance'' to connect with the person, use ''Contract'' to make a verbal promise, then use ''Fulfillment'' to demand the person fulfill their words!


    In civilized society, this miracle of his was extremely effective. If not for hitting an iron te, he would now be lying on the sunny beach of a seaside vi enjoying fine wine, instead of brawling in the bottom level of this prison surrounded byke water.


    But as long as there were rules, he was still the dominator. Prison was no exception.


    Although spirit arts were prohibited here, they were the manifestation of knowledge. Igor could still achieve his goals through roundabout means.


    Spirit arts were like campfires for roasting meat. Even if the fire died down, with some effort tinder could be lit again to reignite the mes for roasting.


    The three spirit arts - ''Contract'', ''Resonance'', and ''Fulfillment'' - were all closely rted to rhetoric. With just the power of words, Igor could arouse the resonance of spirit arts, circumventing the restrictions of the chips.


    His previous 45 deathmatches were all forcibly won by making his opponents agree to the match with the miracle ''Actions Speak Louder than Words''. Even if they lost, they would agree to his second, third, fourth match, until Igor had drained their contribution points dry before stopping.


    This was the meaning of deathmatches - weeding out the weak and distinguishing livestock!


    Grovel under my feet and let me trample you, livestock!


    ''He''s going to punch me in the chest with a straight.''


    Igor easily avoided his punch and sneered, "Don''t waste time, beast. Finish it quickly!"


    "It''s rare to have a neer. Don''t break him so fast!"


    "Beast, you have so many contribution points. Why not let me enjoy some too?"


    "Beast, bring a knife next time. I want to eat some juicy thigh meat! Langna, don''t fight with me for it!"


    The prisoners in the stands were giggling, but Langna who was drawing circles on her boyfriend''s chest suddenly said, "Even if I don''t fight with you, you won''t get to eat it."


    "Hm?"


    The prisoners were taken aback for a moment. Many of their expressions changed: "This guy... So this is a believer of the Four Pirs, huh..."


    Although shabby, Ash''s defensive efficiency could be seen improving rapidly with the naked eye. At the beginning, every punch from Igor hit its mark, but now Igor was lucky tond one out of four punches. And that punch could possibly be blocked by Ash''s arm.


    It wasn''t a sudden increase in physical abilities. More like he had developedbat instincts.


    Ash''s movements did not get faster. In fact, they slowed down due to fatigue and pain. But his motions became more agile, as if he hadpletely morphed into Igor''s shape. He knew how to react whenever Igor lifted a hand.


    To be honest, Igor wasn''t that strong in the Deathmatch Society. He didn''t even qualify for the second team. His prowessy in tormenting and draining the weak. Going beyond prison rules topletely wring out the losers. But everyone had to admit, Igor had great judgement and always found the meek he could bully. His 45 consecutive wins were proof.


    When Ash had walked onto the stage with Igor, everyone thought he would lose all his contribution points and be a permanent guest at the Blood Moon Tribunal. After all, Ash didn''t seem to have anybat skills either. He looked like a pretty boy, making them seriously doubt if the so-called Four Pirs cult was actually a wealthydies social club.


    Yet, relying solely on minutes of fighting, Ash had transformed from a fragile greenhouse flower with no defensive stance at all into a steady, experienced man-eating jungle flower. He even seemed to gain the upper hand!


    "Sir Taig, seems he''s the same type as you." Someone joked, "I didn''t expect Igor to be fooled."


    "No."


    The white-haired old man Taig who was used to ying weak had a very serious expression this time: "He wasn''t ying the pig. He really was a pig before."


    "The body doesn''t lie. His body showed no signs ofbat training. Even a child is better than him." Langna also sat straight on her boyfriend''sp and said, "I brought him in. I saw it very clearly. All his physical reactions were unlike someone trained to fight. This might be one of his first closebat battles in years."


    Someone murmured in wonder, "How is that possible... Doesn''t that mean..."


    "That''s right." In the darkness, Langna said ruefully, "The wrong man, in the wrong ce, awakened the wrong talent. What a waste..."


    p!


    Igor used both hands to block Ash''s fist. It was the first time he had defended in this fight. Compared to the spectators, Igor had a deeper understanding of Ash''s rate of improvement - it was like a silent livestock destined for ughter transforming into...a very noisy one.


    "What cute fists, even softer than a baby''s." Igor grinned wickedly, "Tired yet?"


    Ash remained silent, pacing as he looked for openings in Igor''s defense.


    "I have to admit, I underestimated you. Your learning speed far exceeds my expectations. A gift from the Four Pirs? Or your talent you just discovered? I acknowledge you have the capacity to stop being livestock, but your physical condition is far too poor. So poor that all I need to do is drag this out to exhaust you!"


    "Consider the 1 contribution point you wagered as the redemption fee for your transformation from livestock to human. You should feel fortunate. Ash Heath, you''re the only livestock able to shake off your shackles, but that''s all."


    "When this deathmatch ends, I''ll have nothing more to do with you. I won''t ept any challenges from you either. Within the prison rules, you can''t get back at me."


    "Understanding the rules, utilizing the rules, dominating the rules, that''s true power. But with your bit ofbat talent, at best you''ve turned from livestock into...a beast!"


    "When you''re engulfed by power and struggle helplessly in the Blood Moon Tribunal, I''ll be sitting safely somewhere, sipping red wine and watching your sorry state. That''s the difference between you and me. The gap between the dominated and the dominator!"


    Just then, Ash suddenly said, "Don''t block your face."


    Igor sneered disdainfully. Only a fool would listen to you��


    "You''re quite good looking. I want to see more."


    ''You''re quite good looking. I want to see more.''


    Ash''s words and true thoughts came at the same time, making Igor pause. It was his first time hearing praise like this on the stage. Out of boastful instinct, he unconsciously lowered his hands��


    p!


    The heavy fist that had been focused for a long time fiercely smashed into Igor''s face, directly knocking him unconscious.


    Ding ding ding!


    "Winner, Ash Heath!"

 Chapter 20: The Crow Doctor

    Chapter 20: The Crow Doctor


    "Ashe Heath, wake up and walk yourself if you don''t want to miss dinner time. No meals are served to patients here."


    Ashe, who had been baking under the ring lights, sat up quickly and felt his face and abdomen. There was no pain or swelling at all, as if the beating from Igor had only been a dream.


    This was not the first time he had witnessed the medical technology of this world, but each time it amazed him - the wound pierced through his abdomen by the Blood Mad Hunter would have likely kept him in the ICU for over ten days in his previous life, hanging on the edge between life and death. Yet here, it had been healed before he was even interrogated.


    It made Ashe think they wanted to heal him first, so they could then put him through a full set of interrogational healthcare.


    He looked around. Unlike the treatment rooms he imagined, there was no scent of disinfectant here. The environment was spotless without any clutter or bloodstains, but the color scheme was predominantly grey, ck and brown, giving a visual impression of ��dirty chaos��.


    Not to mention the doctor here - dressed fully in ck robes and wearing a terrifying crow mask, holding a gleaming short de in hand.


    She looked nothing like a doctor, but more like a cultist taking Ashe as a sacrifice.


    The slightly shorter crow doctor speaking to Ashe had an obscured voice that revealed no gender due to the mask. Her words sounded even more frightening.


    Noticing Ashe looking at her, she asked, "Any issues?"


    Ashe casually replied, "I feel like there''s still some issues with my face."


    "Hmm? But I''ve healed all your wounds," the doctor sounded puzzled. "Could it be ruptured blood vessels inside?"


    "I feel like I''m not as handsome as before. You didn''t fully heal me right? By the way, do you provide cosmetic services here?"


    Ashe had only meant to chat idly and build some rapport, so he could get preferential treatment with fruit and such when he came for healing again. But unexpectedly, the crow doctor became excited and moved closer to him, saying, "Of course we do! Eye corner lifts, nose jobs, shaving, chin fillers, any procedure I can do. I can even make you into another race if you want! I highly rmend this Kassadan procedure that can effectively expand your eyes..."


    Disgusted, Ashe pushed the doctor away. "Your crow beak is poking me!"


    "Oh sorry! If you want lip enhancements, I also have this new White Rabbit technique that can give your lips a natural sweet vor..."


    Seeing the doctor''s fervent salesman-like enthusiasm, Ashe became afraid. "But I don''t have money!"


    "I don''t want your money, I just want you!"


    Ashe''s delicate body trembled. "So fast? We''ve barely met! Wait, are you male or female? Wait, what race are you..."


    The doctor also realized her slip of the tongue and waved her hands. "I mean, as long as you let me do the surgery, that''s enough! You don''t need to pay me,pletely free!"


    "Hmm..." Ashe asked, "What if I wanted you to pay me instead?"


    "Uh...how much do you want?"


    Seeing the doctor actually take out her wallet, Ashe hurriedly stopped her. "Stop stop, I was just casually asking, I don''t really want cosmetic surgery. Though, are all you doctors this kind to do surgeries for free? With the way you''re dressed, I thought you were the sort to suddenly raise prices mid-surgery."


    Doctor: "Ah, isn''t that pretty normal?"


    "Huh?"


    For a moment, Ashe couldn''t tell if she meant ''free'' or ''mid-surgery price hikes'' were normal.


    "So you really don''t want cosmetic procedures?" The doctor strongly urged, "I''m a Silver-rank sorcerer with three spirits. You won''t find another free and capable doctor like me out there! Meeting me is your gain!"


    "What if you start charging midway through the surgery since I can''t pay?"


    "Do you have money?"


    "No."


    "Then what are you worried about!?"


    That did seem logical. As long as I''m broke, you can''t squeeze money from me... But Ashe still shook his head. "There''s a saying in my profession - free things are the most expensive. If I take advantage of your free offer, I''ll inevitably pay the price elsewhere."


    Seeing Ashe wouldn''t take the bait, the doctor resigned and admitted, "Alright, there is a small risk if you let me operate on you."


    "Just a little?"


    "Yes, a little." The doctor gestured with her fingers. "My surgical techniques aren''t very proficient after all, so I need more practice to improve them. But with my three spirits, I can ensure there''s no threat to your life..."


    From the doctor''s exnation, Ashe finally understood why they were willing to let patients freeload - because the medical efficacy of Silver-rank healers was not guaranteed.


    Unlike evidence-based medicine in his former world, this world''s medicine originated from spirits. The spirit mostmonly used by healers was the ''Aqua Healing'' spirit of the water-element.


    As long as the patient had water in their body, this spirit could be summoned to rapidly regenerate the patient''s wounds.


    Cutting open wounds and scraping out flesh, then summoning the spirit to swiftly regenerate the body, was the most prevalent treatment method.


    It was easy to see the many ws in this treatment approach. However, all spirits had the trait of evolution, which was especially prominent in the ''Aqua Healing'' spirit - any illness it had treated with before, it would remember and optimize, allowing it to treat the same illness much more efficiently the next time.


    Moreover, once the healer had treated enough illnesses, it could even evolve the ''Aqua Healing'' spirit into a Two-Winged spirit!


    Therefore, Silver-rank healers were always eager for patients to practice on, while patients would rather pay more for better Gold-rank healers than risk their lives with a Silver. The weaker the healer''s abilities, the worse the ''Aqua Healing'' effects, and the higher the patient''s risk.


    To healers, Shattered Lake Prison was a honeypot - there were prisoners beaten to near-death to practice healing on every day. They could smoothly grind for experience here, and even if a patient died, there would be no issues!


    Healers like the one speaking to Ashe wouldn''t even have the chance to grind here if not for their connections.


    Ashe thought to himself that the Deathmatch Society was not only inciting prisoners to fight each other as part of their schemes, they also treated the prisoners as renewable resources for healers to practice on. The prison profited immensely from this business model,pletely winning against the prisoners.


    However, the fact that healing was free and didn''t require using up Death Row inmates'' Contribution points showed the prison''s smaller outlookpared to Ashe''spany - hispany not only sold Ashe sudden death insurance, but directly deducted electricity fees from his sry for his malicious overtime mining and crypto trading,pletely foiling his get-rich ns.

 Chapter 21: Ashes Little Lesson on Workplace Conduct

    Chapter 21: Ashe''s Little Lesson on Workce Conduct


    "If you want more people toe to you for treatment, shouldn''t you work on your appearance a bit?"


    In the treatment room, Ashe looked at the doctor wearing a crow mask and felt a little confused: "Dressed like this, it''d be impressive if people don''t suspect you of robbing missionaries, much lesse to you for treatment. Is this meaningless tradition?"


    "It''s tradition, and it has meaning," the doctor said. "Think about it, if...just in case...I mess up while treating you, and you wake up missing some parts, when you see me looking like this, would you dare attack me?"


    "I probably wouldn''t dare."


    "There you go."


    The two stared at each other, and Ashe suddenly understood: "So the terrifying clothes and eerie treatment room ambience are just props to improve doctor-patient rtionships... Wait, so the likelihood of you messing up is pretty high?"


    "It''s not that high, just a little bit..." The doctor''s words were ambiguous, and she didn''t even dare look at Ashe. It seemed like that "little bit" was about the size of the Milky Way.


    Ashe said, "With this kind of service attitude, no wonder you don''t have patientsing to you. I bet you didn''t have much business outside either, and patients even used you of not treating them well enough, so you had to hide here in the prison to grind experience on us prisoners who can''tin, right?"


    The doctor hung her head in shame. Ashe had clearly hit the nail on the head. She defended herself softly, "I did cure thempletely, but they still went aroundining and causing trouble, and some issues weren''t even my fault at all, they brought it onto themselves... All I did was provide basic guaranteed treatment, yet they demanded so much more..."


    It was as if Ashe had broken through her defenses. The doctor poured out her negativity as if Ashe was a trash can. To Ashe, her story was totally deserved: in this day and age when most doctors collect a consultation fee, she didn''t charge anything at all and was even willing to make house calls. As a result, patientsined she didn''t treat them well enough, so she couldn''t make it in the city and could onlye to the prison to grind experience points on death row inmates.


    After listening, Ashe thought for a bit then asked, "Do you know what your weakness is?"


    "I know, my skills aren''t good enough..."


    "It''s that you don''t talk firmly enough!"


    "Huh?" The doctor lifted her head, confusion in her eyes behind the crow mask.


    "The way you talk is so timid andcking in confidence. If any medical ident happens, the patient will definitelye after you. Even if you don''t charge money, they''ll still eat you alive." Ashe lectured: "Let me teach you, when you say you might not be able to cure the illness, make your voice loud and clear, keep your back straight, and say it with a confident, proud attitude."


    "Plus that''s just the first step. The second step is you have to find ws in the patient. If the patient looks good, say he lives too profligately; if he''s ugly, say he has no sex life; if he''s thin, say he''s malnourished; if he''s fat, say he overeats. There''s always some criticism that fits. No one is perfect, you can definitely find a way to suppress the patient."


    "As long as you do these two steps, you can establish your own authority and suppress the patient''s status, creating an atmosphere of ''I''m willing to treat your illness so you should be grateful.'' Even if there''s a medical ident, the patient won''t me you, he might even exin it away for you."


    The doctor said, "Does it really work?"


    "It really does!" Ashe nodded heavily. "It''s from my many years of personal experience!"


    Ashe was very familiar with these kinds of workce PUAs, first picking apart the other''s ws to suppress them, then showing your own goodwill, and the other person would be moved to tears like Stockholm syndrome, unable to resist. Fresh grads were almost defenseless against these tactics.


    Of course using such foul y in the workce deserved condemnation, but a tool itself had no inherent morality, only the heart behind it. For volunteer doctors willing to provide free healthcare even with a little risk, Ashe felt they should have an easier professional path.


    "So you know what to do now?"


    "What should I do?"


    "From now on, no matter what operation you do, you must tell the patient: I''ve done my best!"


    "I''ve done my best."


    "Louder, I can''t hear you!"


    "I''ve done my best!" The doctor clenched her fist and said.


    Ashe nodded satisfied. "You can slowlyprehend the rest, I should go eat now..."


    The doctor was lost in thought. When Ashe had put on his shoes and was about to leave, she suddenly stopped him and asked, "Really not going to get stic surgery? Take a look in the mirror, don''t you feel going out in public like that is disrespectful to others?"


    Ashe''s body shook, his eyes full of the gratification of a mentorable student��Damn, she just used the skill she learned on the teacher!?


    If she joined ourpany, she''d at least be supervisor level!


    "No contrast, no harm. Compared to your ugly crow face, I suddenly feel quite handsome. Next time, I''lle find you for stic surgery when I feel I''ve gotten uglier." Ashe brushed her off.


    "I''m not ugly, you''re the ugly one!" The doctor was so angry she wanted to take off her mask, but when her hand touched the crow mask, she heard footsteps upstairs.


    She suddenly recalled something. "Right, Ashe, take this."


    Ashe was handed a tag engraved with [222].


    "What''s this?"


    The doctor said, "My ID tag. Remember to keep it on you at all times, even when you sleep, so everyone knows you''re my patient."


    Ashe blinked. "So which are you, GG or MM? I''m pretty easygoing, but if your specs are beyond my bottom line, I will be charging extra..."


    "You don''t want stic surgery, so when you go out you''ll definitely scare people into challenging you to deathmatches seven or eight times. With my ID tag, when you get beaten to a pulp, I''ll have priority treatment rights. If your face gets ruined, I can help you with stic surgery too." The doctor pushed him out. "Alright go eat, the cafeteria is about to close..."


    After Ashe left, the doctor continued organizing the treatment room''s tools.


    Suddenly another door opened, and a tall doctor walked in. Seeing the doctor, he said harshly, "Why are you still here?"


    The doctor nced at his name tag, [176].


    That''s right, not only did the death row inmates not know which doctor was which, even the doctors didn''t know each other''s identities. Except in their own bedrooms, the doctors had to wear crow masks and ID tags to identify themselves in any public setting.


    "A patient just woke up and dyed me a bit. I gave him my tag and scheduled his future treatments."


    "You didn''t chat with him, did you?"


    The tall doctor''s tone became severe.


    "You know it''s against regtions to interact with prisoners. Our identities need to be kept strictly confidential. If word got out we''re conducting rituals here, the human rights associations would tear down the parliament..."


    "I know." The doctor stuck her tongue out under the crow mask.


    "Then hurry back to your room. The 11-inch blood mage thesis is due by the weekend, don''t forget." The tall doctor said sternly: "Don''t think you can bezy just because you have some talent. If not for the supervisor''s permission, you wouldn''t even have the qualifications to be here..."


    In the past, the doctor would have be apprehensive and self-reflective when criticized by a senior. But after chatting with Ashe, she suddenly had a thought.


    "Is Senior deliberately criticizing my imperfections to establish his own authority and suppress my status? I got in here through the supervisor''s care, something I can''t change, it has nothing to do with my skills. He can always use this one thing to criticize me."


    Hearing the tall doctor''s worthless ther, the doctor missed the sweet-talking Ashe more and more.


    Speaking of which, Ashe''s recovery ability seemed much stronger than the average martial mage''s. The feel of his treatment was really quite nice...


    I do hope Ashe gets beaten to near death soon, the doctor thought.

 Chapter 22: Deathmatch Invitation

    Chapter 22: Deathmatch Invitation


    Shattered Lake Prison, Cafeteria


    "I won 45 contribution points, but I still have to attend the Blood Moon Tribunal in a few days?!"


    Ashe, who was eating, lifted his head in confusion: "Didn''t you say that those with more contribution points get their tribunal scheduledter?!"


    "That''s right," Langna said while drinking milk. "But there''s one condition - all prisoners must attend their first Blood Moon Tribunal, only a very few can escape due to pardons and the like."


    "Only after surviving one tribunal and living through it, will the scheduling be based on contribution points."


    "What if I die at my first Blood Moon Tribunal?"


    "If you''re worried about that, why not have a practice match with me and give all your points to me?"


    "In your dreams!" Ashe muttered, then after thinking for a bit, asked: "Didn''t you say only one person dies at each Blood Moon Tribunal?"


    "That''s right, there are eight participants, but only one dies," Langna said. "There''s only a 12.5% chance of dying - that''s pretty low in general."


    "But am I an average person?"


    "Clearly, as the leader of the Four Pirs heretical cult, you are not. With at least over a thousand civilian victims from your murders, kidnappings, imprisonments, and bloody rituals - your infamy these days is known far and wide. Without idents, you''ll certainly be an important focus at the Blood Moon Tribunal."


    Ashe silently cursed Heath in his heart for the endless grievances caused on his behalf... Building weird cults and angering everyone, even loan sharks are less hated!


    "What do you think? If you want to give up, why not give me your points?" Langna said. "I''ll remember your sacrifice and live happily ever after with my boyfriend..."


    "Piss off!" Ashe huffed. "I might just live through it! I won''t give up!"


    "Very well," Langna didn''t seem to care about Ashe''s 95 points either, "Someone wants to challenge you, will you ept?"


    "That''s why you waited for me at the cafeteria right?"


    "Yes," Langna admitted inly, "As for why, you''ll understand when you see the number of points he bet - 37 contribution points."


    Ashe narrowed his eyes: "The guy who fought 36 deathmatches is challenging me? I only bet 2 points per match."


    Langna shrugged.


    "That''s why I came to inform you specially."


    "Usually it''s the newbies challenging veterans, to win big with small bets. Veterans can also challenge newbies, but that''s generally after 5 matches, otherwise the veterans don''t even have interest in earning points."


    "So I was quite surprised that a veteran took the initiative to challenge you. I wanted to ask if you have some history with him."


    "Who is it?"


    "Valcas Uhl."


    Ashe shook his head: "Never heard of him."


    Of course he hadn''t heard of him, he didn''t even have Heath''s memories. Even if Valcas really had history with Heath, Ashe wouldn''t know.


    "Sylin Dole."


    "Hmm?" Ashe blinked, "Who?"


    Langna waved his hand: "No one, just recalled an acquaintance."


    "So will you ept Valcas''s challenge?"


    "What weapon does Valcas use?"


    "Sword."


    Ashe''s mind stirred, and he nced to the side where the Swordswoman sat cross-legged on the table, arms crossed over her chest, gazing at him calmly. Her ck stockings on her legs were very eye-catching.


    She looked at Ashe askance: "Is it interesting to sneak peeks at me?"


    ��Sorry.��Ashe turned his head and stared wide-eyed at the ck stockings, a thought suddenly popping into his mind: ��Speaking of which, since you can touch me, does that mean I can touch you too? Ahem, Swordswoman, go take a bathter...��


    With a cry of metal, the Swordswoman drew out her ornate ceremonial sword. Ashe immediately sat up straight and said to Langna, "Tell Valcas to wash his neck clean and wait for me tomorrow!"


    "Thene to the Deathmatch Society tomorrow morning, I won''t disturb your meal anymore. My boyfriend''s waiting for me, see you!" Langna said and swiftly departed like the wind.


    Ashe had thought Langna''s boyfriend was waiting for him in the couples'' rooms, but after ncing twice, he saw that Langna did not head in that direction. Instead, he left towards the Deathmatch Society... Probably some night owls were still deathmatching and he wanted the medics to work overtime and die from overwork, Ashe figured.


    "Let''s head back to the dorms," the Swordwoman jumped down from the table. "You''ve got things to do tonight, I''m taking you to explore a world you''ve never known before."


    Ashe immediately flushed red with anger - what''s this about a world I don''t know about!? Do I look that much like a virgin!?


    This woman''s words are going too far. If I let her remain so arrogant, won''t I lose all standing!?


    "Why aren''t youing yet?"


    "Coming~!"


    ......


    ......


    8:45pm, Deathmatch Society without any other spectators. A secret deathmatch was underway.


    "Ashe agreed, but not because of the name you gave me, it was because he looked forward to an opponent using swords - when I said you used a sword de, that''s when he made up his mind."


    "Thank you, I owe you one this time, Langna."


    "Valcas, you can repay me right now. Just tell me why you suddenly targeted little cutie Ashe. Does it have to do with that name - Sylin Dole?"


    In the dim audience stands, a slender middle-aged man watched the arena.


    Yes, watched the feeding. There probably wasn''t a better description. Although the food could move, escape, scream, and beg for mercy, in the end it was just food to be devoured.


    "I don''t mind telling you, as long as you don''t regret it."


    "Then forget it. My boyfriend and I are very loving, and quite satisfied with our lives. I don''t want to get involved in the contests between big shots."


    Langna tore off a strip of warm flesh and put it in his mouth to slowly chew: "But is Ashe really the leader of the Four Pirs heretical cult? I consider myself quite skilled at judging people, he seems more like a new grad who just started working. I thought he was innocent."


    The middle-aged man gave a cold snort.


    "Every single person who steps into this cesspool is far from the word innocent. The only difference is whether only their skin is stained, or if they willingly open their mouths to gorge on the stench."


    "I''m eating right now, Valcas, so don''t mention feces alright?"


    "Then I won''t disturb your meal, bon appetit."


    When the great doors of the Deathmatch Society rumbled closed, the faint wails faded into the pitch ck darkness.


    Valcas walked along the prison passages, every prisoner and guard he met gave him a wide, indifferent berth.


    asionally he came across a new prisoner who had just arrived. When they saw Valcas''s ears, their faces naturally revealed gloating expressions.


    Because Valcas''s ears were pointed.


    When Valcas returned to his own room, he saw a guard waiting outside his door.


    He had expected this, and said in a low voice while opening the door: "Ashe Heath has agreed to deathmatch me."


    "You mustpletely shatter his brain, heart, spine, to the extent even tier 2 mages can''t heal." The guard said.


    "I will do as you ask, then will you fulfill your end?" Valcas didn''t enter, but turned to look at the guard.


    "As long as Ashe Heath dies tomorrow, then after the next Blood Moon Tribunal ends, you will vanish from this prison." The guard said, "But you and that child cannot remain in Caimon City, this is Master Sylin''s request."


    "I have no interest in continuing to breathe the same air as Sylin either." Valcas revealed a disgusted expression.


    "Free activity time is almost over, don''t stand outside. Go into your cell."


    Valcas''s lips twitched as he stepped into his room, letting the automated door close.


    The guard turned and left, the corners of his lips raised in a slight smirk as he gave a cold chuckle.


    "A mere elf death row convict still retaining the arrogance of the noble-born... Ha!"

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23


    "I''m so tired, Ingritt. Do you want to shower first or should I go first?"


    Before the person arrived, her voice preceded her. Iris, who was reading a book in the dormitory, immediately turned ck.


    The dormitory door was pushed open, and two girls carrying sword bags came in, giggling as they barged in. Like a breath of fresh spring air, they filled the dormitory with vitality and gave off a refreshing scent of sprouting soil.


    "I''ll shower first," Ingritt said as she sat down. "I still have to doundryter, and your feet are already soft. Sit for a while and recover your strength."


    "That makes sense," Sonya yawned and sprawled on the table like a slime. "Ah, I''m already starting to regret switching to the Swordsmanship Department. It''s so tiring. Not only the sses, but Professor Trotzam also made me take two extra hours of advanced sses and even spar with him... I still have to continue sword training at night to master the Vibration Sword spirits. It feels like my whole day is packed full."


    "That''s great though," Ingritt said enviously. "Professor Trotzam is a Three Wings Swordsmaster. Last year he was named one of the ''Top 10 Outstanding Swordsaints'' and called the ''Hidden Hands Saint''. He might even advance to be a Four Wings Legend...then you''ll be the disciple of a legendary master!"


    Iris unconsciously crumpled the book in her hands.


    Sonya waved her hand. "Professor Trotzam hasn''t said he wants to ept me as a disciple yet, he just thinks I''m very talented..."


    Ingritt sighed. "I actually wanted to be Professor Trotzam''s disciple at first, but he has never publicly epted a disciple before. You''re one of the only two exceptions he''s made!"


    "Then I''ll rmend you to Professor Trotzam tomorrow. I can''t guarantee it, but she should at least give you a chance to interview��"


    "No need. The professor is clearly only interested in nurturing geniuses. I''m just an ordinary person, she won''t ept me and will only dislike me more." As Ingritt looked for clothes, she said, "Plus I''m about to advance to the second ring soon. In a few months I''ll be able to summon my own spirit, and I''ll have ess to the Swordsmanship Department''s resources... Maybe by then I''ll catch up to you from behind!"


    "I won''t wait for you!" Sonya said with a snicker. "Luckily I have you, Ingritt, otherwise I wouldn''t know how to turn down Felix''s invitation."


    Ingritt asked curiously, "I heard he wanted to spar with you again. Don''t you want to fight him again?"


    "I don''t want to!" Sonya said decisively. "He doesn''t really want to spar, he just wants to get closer to me."


    "What''s wrong with getting closer to Felix?"


    "Apart from him being a yboy, it''s obvious that my future aplishments in swordsmanship will definitely surpass him. I can''t stand men who can''t even win against me in their strongest area."


    "Swordflower College is still too small. I''m definitely going to have to go to Trinity College in the future to develop myself. As for romance, let''s talk about it after I''ve achieved something in swordsmanship."


    Iris''s nails were about to pierce through the pages of the book.


    Adele, who had been watching a light screen show, asked half-pretend and half-puzzled, "Sonya, are you going to transfer to Trinity College?"


    "No, but Professor Trotzam can help me sign up for Trinity College''s swordsmanshippetitions and let me use their equipment. I may have to shuttle between the two colleges in the future." Sonya sighed and said, "The more I think about it the more tired I feel."


    Adele eximed in surprise, "Then won''t you be able to meet all kinds of top students from Trinity College? If you meet a handsome guy, remember to introduce him to me!"


    "No~pro~blem~," Sonya drew out her words. "How could I forget my roommates if something goodes up? We''re such good roommates who have spent a happy year together, right Iris?"


    Iris was so angry her mouth twisted, and it took great effort to force a smile. "Of course. I''m just worried the great Swordsaint Sonya will no longer recognize us roommates."


    "How is that possible? I''m just a country bumpkin who came from a small vige. In the future I''ll have to rely on young miss Iris to take good care of me." Sonya said sarcastically. "Oh right, the young miss is reading her watermagic textbook? I''m so envious, I also really want to continue studying watermagic. It''s so rxed and dignified, not tiring like the Swordsmanship Department..."


    By now Ingritt also realized Sonya was chatting with her but directing her words at Iris.


    She couldn''t be bothered to care about their grievances, and simply went into the bathroom to shower.


    Sonya was all ready to meet Iris''s anger, but Iris didn''t make a sound, as if she had given up.


    The fun of sarcasm depends on both sides interacting. Now that the other side was just hunkering down, Sonya also lost interest. She picked up her bag and called out, "Forget it. I''lle back to shower tomorrow morning. I have to go to the meditation room now to prepare for my first trip into the virtual world. Have a nice evening, everyone."


    Ingritt was showering, Iris didn''t speak, only Adele responded: "See you, Sonya."


    As the footsteps faded away, the only sound left in the dorm was the shower water.


    Adele looked at the silent Iris, thought for a bit, then walked over to strike up a conversation: "Humph, that country bumpkin Sonya is getting arrogant from a little talent. What''s so great about some skill in swordsmanship? Don''t take it to heart Iris, her arrogance will hit a wall sooner orter..."


    Adele walked over and saw that Iris was really reading her book, and had even taken out her workbook to do exercises.


    "I lost this time," Iris said. "That country bumpkin Sonya has already climbed to a height I have to look up to. If this continues, when we meet again after graduating in a few years, I''ll inevitably have to lower my head to her."


    Seemingly having imagined her future humble state already, the corners of Iris''s mouth twitched slightly. "I can''t ept it... I don''t believe I can be inferior even to that country bumpkin!"


    Adele didn''t disturb her and returned to her own seat to continue watching the show.


    Although the show was still good, Adele''s mind could not calm down.


    She turned and looked at Iris again, and saw that Iris was not just having a brief burst of motivation. She was still concentrating wholeheartedly on studying. Adele thought for a bit, and also turned off the light screen to take out her textbooks to study.


    When Ingritt finished her shower and came out, she was slightly surprised to see both roommates studying diligently.


    But she didn''t say anything, and quietly went to the balcony sink to doundry.


    After the gatekeeper checked the student information in her wristband, Sonya entered apletely enclosed special building.


    As soon as she stepped past the threshold, Sonya felt like she had passed through an invisible boundary. Her thinking suddenly sped up significantly, and the Vibration Sword spirits even jumped out from her shoulder, seeming extremely excited.


    "So after I enter the virtual world, will you still be by my side?" Sonya asked.


    "That would actually be overtime work," the Observer casually said. "Beyond my service scope."


    "So you mean you don''t want to..."


    "So, there needs to be overtime pay!" The Observer rubbed his fingers and said, "When you go to a bar to find someone to chat with, you still have to buy them a drink, right? When you find someone to apany you into the virtual world to chat and travel, you still need to express some gratitude, right!?"


    "I''m super broke!"


    "Apart from money, you still have a lot of residual value you can sell off."


    Sonya raised an eyebrow slightly and hooked her tight shirt with a finger, revealing a deep cleft. "The most valuable thing I have is myself..."


    "That''s exactly what I was waiting to hear! Then from now on you''ll be an employee working for me." The Observer snapped his fingers. "But since you haven''t graduated yet, you''re still on probation. And since it''s probation, there''s no employment contract. As for wages during the probation period, the energy potions and wooden sword you used before have covered it already, so..."


    "So you want me to work for free?"


    "Tsk tsk, don''t say it like that. I''m providing you with all kinds of opportunities for growth, and you just need to provide somebor in return while you grow. Isn''t this a good productive employee-employer rtionship where we progress together?"


    Sonya didn''t reject this unequal tyrant''s contract, but asked back, "You''ve spent so much effort, training me in dreams, arranging my practice, stimting my talent in swordsmanship. Is it just to get me to work for you? What would my job duties be?"


    "To live."


    "Live?"


    "To live is the rarest thing in this world. Most people just exist."


    "I still don''t understand." Sonya said, "I believe every giftes with a price. You''ve invested so much to nurture me, you must want to gain even more from me. Unless you''re just my mental illusion, otherwise I can''t think of a reason for your selflessness."


    "I''m not selfless at all, on the contrary, there''s no one more selfish than me in this world." The Observerughed. "I''m asking you to live your life ording to my wishes. What could be more selfish than that?"


    "But..."


    "Haha, I was just joking earlier. How could I be such a good person who only thinks about your well-being?" The Observerughed. "I do have proper business to ask of you��due to certain reasons, I''ve be very weak now and can''t explore the virtual world alone, so I need you to protect me."


    As they spoke, Sonya had arrived outside room 311. She used her wristband to open the door. Inside was a narrow, empty meditation room. The only thing inside was an orange carpet covering the entire floor. The ceiling lights illuminated every corner.


    This was Swordflower College''s meditation room, and the best quiet ce Sonya could find to enter the virtual world.


    She closed the door and sat cross-legged on the carpet, letting the Vibration Sword spirits float above her palm. She poured her whole mind and soul into the spirit, seeking the Gate of Truth within knowledge, trying to take her first trip into the virtual world.


    Although Sonya had sessfully summoned her first spirit, she could not yet be considered a One Wing Sorcerer, because she had not condensed her ''Silver Wings'' yet.


    Without arcane power, without coalescing virtual shadows, she naturally could not fully harness the spirit, and could not count as a Sorcerer.


    And in order to condense the Silver Wings, she had to enter the virtual world, freely roam the sea of knowledge, use her soul to attract knowledge, extract arcane power from knowledge, condense that power into virtual wings, use the wings to leverage authority over thews of the world, and thus be a Sorcerer!


    The only way ordinary people could enter the virtual world was by finding the Gate of Truth within their spirit, and letting their soul pass through the Gate of Truth to directly reach the illusory world constructed ofws and knowledge��the virtual world!


    It was said the virtual world was tens, hundreds, even thousands of timesrger than the real world.


    Countless Sorcerers spent their entire lives without encountering another person in the virtual world. Therefore, all Sorcerers could only rely on themselves to explore the virtual world.


    The meditation building was a quiet room specially used for Sorcerers to explore the virtual world. Apart from being quiet with no one to disturb them, Swordflower College had also cast the miracle [Starchild Guiding Lights], which not only sped up the students'' thinking to more easily find the Gate of Truth, it also channeled countless rays of starlight from the Starchild Archon, making the students'' souls give off a fragrance that knowledge liked. This allowed them to condense their Silver Wings faster!


    Soon, Sonya found the Gate of Truth within the Vibration Sword spirits.


    After all, it was her first time in life, and Sonya couldn''t help but feel nervous, like she was going to open a hotel room. In her heart she asked, "Observer?"


    "I''m here. Don''t worry. There is a bond between us, sacred destiny has connected you and me."


    Sonya''s mind instantly calmed down. Her consciousness touched the Gate of Truth, and her vision was immediately swallowed by darkness.


    When she woke up, she found herself lying in a boat, floating on a leaden gray sea.


    Before her was the thick, heavy ink-ck sky, surrounded by hazy fog.


    Shey at the rear of the boat, and saw a familiar figure also lying in the bow.


    Sonya: "Observer?"


    Ashe: "Swordswoman?"


    The two looked at each other and both heaved a sigh of relief.

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24


    "So this is the virtual world..."


    Ashe dipped his hand into the sea water, smelled and tasted it. Surprisingly, it tasted a little sweet.


    Looking down, the sea surface was very blurry and he couldn''t see his own reflection clearly.


    Examining his attire, he found himself wearing the same dark windbreaker as his character illustration, looking quite stylish.


    "It''s just like how the virtual world is described in the textbooks."


    Since there was no one else around, Sonya also spoke up openly: "This must be the Sea of Knowledge, also known as the Silver Sea, the Primordial Sea... Regardless of whether one is a genius or mediocre, a legendary Six-Winged Archon or a single-winged mage, their first stop upon entering the virtual world is undoubtedly this ocean."


    "The only difference is this." Sonya knocked on the small boat, looking around and noticing a book symbol on the bow and a sword symbol on the stern.


    "The textbooks say that mages should arrive here naked..."


    "Naked?" Ashe nced at Sonya''s ck halter dress.


    Sonya immediately blushed and instinctively covered her chest: "Our appearances in the virtual world are projections of our consciousness. ''Naked'' means we can''t bring in external objects from reality... I''ve heard that people initially arrive in the virtual world swimming naked in the sea, so it''s impossible to have a boat!"


    "I see!" Ashe suddenly pped his hands.


    "See what?"


    "This boat must be your true form, you''re just a soul illusion!"


    "What?" Sonya was taken aback.


    "Your consciousness has split into two parts. One part is your dense soul, materialized into this small boat for you to sail; the other part is your agile intellect, taking your current form. The soul is the boat, the mind is the person. The boat carries the person sailing towards the other shore, that must be it!" Ashe asserted confidently.


    It did sound somewhat reasonable, but...


    "How do you prove it?" Sonya asked.


    Without thinking, Ashe said: "If you don''t believe me, jump into the sea and try. If I''m right, you won''t be able to leave this boat!"


    No sooner said than done, Sonya directly leapt into the sea with a ssh. Fortunately with the dream trial experience, although Sonya had never learned to swim, she at least knew some water skills and wouldn''t sink like a rock.


    Soon Sonya flipped back onto the boat and harrumphed coldly: "You''re wrong, I can leave the boat. This boat is definitely not a manifestation of my soul..."


    She was a little smug at personally proving the observer''s words wrong, but when she turned to look, she realized the observer was watching her.


    Although his appearance was still obscured by the dimness, Sonya could fully sense his gaze. She looked down and saw that her clothes were soaked by the seawater, clinging wetly to her body and outlining her graceful curves.


    "You--" Sonya was so angry she directly raised her wooden sword, disregarding the difference in their strengths, and immediately summoned her vibration sword spirit to sh at him. Ashe quickly retreated and surrendered: "Wait wait, where did you get that wooden sword?"


    Huh?


    Sonya looked at the wooden sword in her hand. She remembered not having any weapon earlier. But when she saw how irritating the observer was, she instinctively wanted to beat him with a wooden sword...


    "You see, when you wanted a wooden sword, it appeared. Clearly this boat also manifested because you didn''t want to swim," Ashe spread his hands. "I was just testing earlier, and this proves the boat is indeed a manifestation of will."


    "Was that peeping also part of your test? No, the wooden sword is the weapon I''m most familiar with, so I can easily manifest it, just like how I manifested clothes!"


    "Don''t falsely use me, I was openly and uprightly looking! There was no peeping involved!"


    After this little interlude, the unfamiliarity and fear from first arriving in the virtual world dissipated.


    Moreover, having someone to apany felt reassuring, like having someone to take the fall whenever anything happened. Both of them felt a sense of stability.


    But just as Sonya didn''t know the difference between this ''observer'' and that ''observer'', Ashe also didn''t know the distinction between this ''swordswoman'' and that ''swordswoman''.


    One hour ago.


    After dinner, back in the prison dormitory, the swordswoman started chatting about very adult topics with Ashe.


    "I have two pieces of news. The good news is, you''ll be living in free state-provided housing for the rest of your life."


    "There''s such a good deal?"


    "The bad news is, you could be dragged off to be beheaded at any time."


    Ashe understood: "I can''t escape?"


    The swordswoman sat on the bed with her legs crossed and arms folded, eyeing Ashe askance: "You should know that mages are the most powerful group in this world, right? As an ordinary person, it''s impossible for you to contend against mages."


    "Even that masochist mage who transformed his body into diamond, after his link to the virtual world was severed, could only be a diamond rat wallowing in shit."


    "The experiences today should also let you understand, as long as you still have the chip on your nape, no matter where you are, you remain bound by endless shackles."


    Speaking of this, Ashe''s expression also changed slightly. He had thought the miracle chip was like an imntableputer, but didn''t expect the chip to turn him into aputer -- yet his admin privileges were remotely controlled by others.


    Whether he could hit people, what content he could see, what words he could speak, were all under the admin''s control. Today the admin could make him a civilized youth who followed etiquette and rules; tomorrow the admin could make him eat shit in big mouthfuls.


    Before removing the chip, all his ns were equivalent to aputer virus -- the admin only needed to reinstall the system to instantly kill everything. If the admin felt Ashe was beyond repair, he could even directly scrap and recycle him, restarting Ashe''s life.


    "Is there a way to remove the chip?" Ashe gritted his teeth and asked: "Like directly scraping the nape off..."


    "If it was so simple to remove, this prison wouldn''t be so lively."


    The swordswoman sneered: "Although called a chip, during your growth process, the miracle chip has gradually fused into the deepest parts of your marrow. Now every one of your bones, nerves, muscles has the chip''s imprint. To remove the chip, jumping into molten steel at a steel mill might work. "


    "In other words, ordinary methods can''t remove the chip." Ashe said. "Then what about mage methods?"


    "Mages have more methods." The swordswoman said. "The most likely for you to obtain is the sword miracle sh Me."


    "sh Me is a defensive miracle for swordsmages, specialized in cleansing abnormal status effects. Although it''s just a silver miracle even single-wing mages can use, it can directly cleanse most persistent damage caused by two-wing spirits."


    "The miracle chip is aimed at ordinary people and single-wing mages, and can''t withstand the might of the two-wing sh Me miracle. As long as you can use sh Me, you can instantly clear all miracle chips from your body, which will give you the chance to escape."


    "Then how do I obtain the sh Me miracle?"


    "To cast miracles, you first need to have a spirit. And to obtain a spirit, you have four paths." The swordswoman held up four fingers:


    "First, resonating with the virtual world through learning knowledge, manifesting virtual world knowledge into a spirit in reality."


    "Second, searching the virtual world for wild spirits."


    "Third, killing mages and seizing their spirits."


    "Fourth, spirit trading."


    "First of all, you can''t take the first path." The swordswoman nced at Ashe. "The miracle chip has already severed your connection to the virtual world. No matter how much knowledge you absorb, it''s impossible to resonate with the virtual world."


    Ashe looked at his character information in the light screen, and indeed saw a ''Virtual World Resonance Prohibited''.


    "As for the third path, it''s not unheard of for an ordinary person to kill a mage with their mortal body. Most cases happened when concubines and gigolos took the chance to plot against their masters during sex..."


    The swordswoman looked over Ashe and shook her head: "You don''t have a chance with this path either."


    "Don''t deny it so absolutely! I do have a chance relying on my face! I can also earn a living with my looks!"


    "And there''s no need to borate on the fourth path, you simply don''t have the capital to trade with others."


    "In summary," the swordswoman was toozy to argue with Ashe, "searching the virtual world for wild spirits is your only way to obtain a spirit."


    Ashe: "Then how do I go to the virtual world?"


    Swordswoman: "The only way to enter the virtual world is triggering the Truth Gate within a spirit, letting your consciousness directly cross over to the virtual world."


    Ashe blinked.


    "So what you mean is, to go to the virtual world, I first need to have a spirit?"


    "Precisely."


    "And my purpose for going to the virtual world is to find a spirit?"


    "Well said."


    "Wait wait wait..."


    Ashe clutched his forehead and retreated.


    "Isn''t this just like the plight of a new college grad discovering that all job postings require 3 years of experience?! I can''t go to the virtual world without a spirit, but I need to go to the virtual world to find a spirit. Isn''t this an endless loop?"


    "Who told you that you need your own spirit to go to the virtual world?"


    "Huh?"


    The swordswoman pointed at herself: "Did you forget? I already have a vibration sword spirit. I''m qualified to enter the virtual world. Observer, you''ve formed a soul bond with me through the Manual, even sharing experience. Bringing you along to the virtual world is easy."


    There''s this function too? Ashe instinctively opened the Sorcerer''s Handbook and wanted to reread his talents, but discovered a new module had appeared in the game somehow:


    "Virtual World Expedition": Organize operator teams to explore the virtual world.


    However, when Ashe clicked "Virtual World Expedition", selected ''Apocalypse Observer'' and ''Death Maniac Swordswoman'' to act together, and clicked "Ready", nothing changed in reality -- because ''Death Maniac Swordswoman'' was still "Preparing".


    "I''m already ready, hurry up and confirm too." Ashe urged.


    "I''ll go back and prepare, you can slowly wait."


    Ashe was baffled: "What do you still need to prepare?"


    "Lots, lots, a virgin like you wouldn''t understand."


    Watching the swordswoman curl her lips in a mocking smile and disappear into the air, Ashe could only lie in bed and wait. Perhaps the regeneration treatment drained too much strength, or perhaps the night was overly boring without a phone to scroll, Ashe soon felt drowsy and closed his eyes.


    When he woke up again, he saw the swordswoman sitting with him in the same boat, floating on an ocean shrouded in white fog.


    On the small boat in the Sea of Knowledge, Ashe suddenly recalled something and silently tried to summon the light screen.


    He both failed and seeded -- he failed because although he summoned the light screen, most functions became ineffective, the virtual world indeed didn''t support external plugins; but he seeded because the Sorcerer''s Handbook could still run.


    He opened the Handbook''s "Virtual World Expedition", and suddenly a map popped up on the light screen, with a message:


    "You have entered virtual world expedition mode, please read the beginner''s guide..."


    On the other side, Sonya noticed Ashe wasn''t speaking, so she also focused her mind on the virtual world. She bent over and used her hands to stir the seawater, trying to propel the small boat forward.


    "Wait, don''t rush and move around randomly, swordswoman. Let me handle it."

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25


    "You''reing?"


    Sonya was a bit puzzled, looking at Ashe with doubt in her eyes.


    In a sorcerer''s growth journey, exploring the virtual world was undoubtedly an important part of it, and could even be said to be the most important part.


    The vast majority of adventures, breakthroughs, and promotions in this world happened in the virtual world. Many sorcerers would not hesitate to devote their entire lives to exploring it.


    Compared to the virtual world, reality was merely a stage for sorcerers to show off during their leisure time.


    Although the virtual world was so important, there was no exploratory guide that could be followed to this day.


    Maybe there was one, but Sonya didn''t have the status to ess it yet.


    During her afternoon ss, Sonya had specifically asked Professor Trotzam if he had any tips for the virtual world, but Trotzam just shrugged and said he didn''t have any.


    "The reason why sorcerers have equal status is precisely because we are all equally ignorant in the virtual world."


    Sonya knew that Professor Trotzam valued her, and she could also see that the professor was a typical swordsman who disdained lying to weaklings like her.


    Since even the Three Wings Holy Domain sorcerers didn''t have an effective guide, Sonya didn''t have much expectation for the Observer.


    "There are dangers in the virtual world," Sonya reminded: "If I die here, it will take three days to recuperate my spirit when I go back."


    Sorcerers could die in the virtual world.


    The mostmon way to die was, of course, drowning.


    When sorcerers wanted to explore the deep sea, or stayed still in the sea, they might get swallowed by the sea of knowledge.


    That was why Sonya was so surprised by the small boat - it meant they were free from the risk of drowning.


    After a sorcerer dies in the virtual world, it would cause tremendous damage to the soul. The more powerful the sorcerer was, the more severe the damage, and the longer the recovery would take.


    For a newbie sorcerer like Sonya, only three days of recuperation would be needed. But for official silver-rank sorcerers, at least fifteen days would be needed. For gold-rank sorcerers, it would be counted in months. It was said that the recuperation time for Holy Domain sorcerers and legendary sorcerers would even be counted in years.


    Being unable to explore the virtual world meant a 90% reduction in one''s growth speed. Therefore, sorcerers held various views on virtual world exploration: some were conservative, trying to grow steadily; some liked taking risks, either hitting jackpot and livingvishly, or losing it all and bing a host club worker.


    Previously, Sonya tended to take risks, because she had nothing. But now she leaned towards prudence - after discovering her talent in swordsmanship, Professor Trotzam evaluated her as "no problem reaching gold-rank in twenty years, with hope for Holy Domain in forty years".


    In the Starchild Realm, a gold-rank sorcerer with two wings was also quite a figure, easily mixing into the petty nobility, which was Sonya''s life goal.


    If she could be promoted to the three-winged Holy Domain, she could even establish her family n and make a name for herself.


    Therefore, Sonya''s petty bourgeois mentality was very normal. She knew she had even better prospects, but the awkward reality forced her to just want to grasp what she currently had.


    The world was beautiful and worth striving for, she could only agree with the second half of the saying.


    But even if she was more conservative, Sonya still had to explore the virtual world, there was no "staying in ce" option. Countless school teachers, even Professor Trotzam, had specifically reminded her - never stay in the same ce for too long.


    No one knew what would happen if one stayed in the same ce for a long time, but those who entered the virtual world and stopped moving soon lost their heartbeat in reality, and even healing mages couldn''t save them, because their souls weren''t in their bodies at all.


    Therefore, there was a saying that if you stopped moving in the virtual world, your body would think you were already dead and just drop dead on the spot.


    "I heard that for the first time entering the virtual world, walking towards the shallowest fog is the safest," said Sonya.


    This could barely be called a guide, at most just a small tip summarized by senior sorcerer alumni of Swordflower College. And the sess rate was less than 60%, the other 40% of survey participants encountered danger.


    But in thispletely unknown ocean, a 60% chance was worth gambling on.


    "No, we''re going there," Ashe pointed to the ce with the thickest fog, where the view waspletely obscured, just looking at it brought a hint of fear. Sonya was about to say something more, but the small boat automatically sailed towards it. She immediately shifted her attention: "You can control this boat? You brought this boat?"


    "Yeah."


    "Then you tricked me into jumping into the sea just now!?"


    Seeing Sonya gripping her wooden sword again, Ashe quickly exined: "I just discovered I could control the boat, I really meant it when I told you to jump into the sea earlier!"


    "You really meant to see me make a fool of myself?"


    "I really meant to see you wet...hey hey calm down, we''ve entered unknown territory, danger could pop up any time!"


    The white fog rushed up, the unknown could emerge at any moment, so Sonya could only sit back down indignantly.


    But as they passed throughyers of fog, Sonya felt something flowing into her body, her consciousness bing clearer and clearer, her skin taking on a silvery glow, and arge amount of swordfighting knowledge suddenly surfaced in her mind.


    This was why sorcerers had to explore the virtual world - as long as they moved within it, they would automatically obtain the knowledge inside, and condense their own knowledge into silver arcane power!


    Whenrge amounts of silver arcane power precipitated and coagted, it could form the embodiment of a virtual wing sorcerer''s power: the Silver Wings!


    Sonya suddenly understood why sorcerers all liked immersing themselves in the virtual world.


    This feeling of gaining knowledge every second, bing stronger every moment, was asfortable as the firstzy morning stretch.


    While Sonya enjoyed the thrill brought by knowledge, Ashe was staring at the map in the light screen like a cking student causing mischief in ss.


    In the center of the map was a small boat, surrounded by eight grids. Currently the small boat was entering the top left grid.


    That''s right, this was the "Virtual World Exploration" mode provided by the game. When Ashe moved the small boat in the game, the boat in the virtual world would move along.


    Apart from moving, Ashe could also check the information of these eight grids:


    "Waste of effort", "Seeking death", "Waste of effort", "Waste of effort", "Waste of effort", "Worth a visit", "Bit of trouble", "Best not go".


    Among the eight tips, "Waste of effort" clearly meant there was nothing in the grid, "Seeking death" was dangerous, Ashe couldn''t guess what "Best not go" meant, while "Worth a visit" was clearly a hint given by the game.


    Soon, after passing throughyers of fog, a small ind shrouded in thick fog appeared before the two.


    Seeing this scene, Sonya suddenly recalled that the ce where the Observer had put her through the dream ordeal was exactly the same as the virtual world.


    No wonder the Observer was so confident, he could even use the virtual world for trials, exploring the virtual world must be a piece of cake for him!


    The boat slowly came to a stop. The moment the two stepped onto the small ind, the thick fog suddenly dispersed, and a hunter wearing a wide-brimmed hat and holding a long gun appeared before them.


    "Beyond seven steps, the gun is fast."


    The hunter raised his gun and aimed at the two: "Within seven steps, the gun is both urate and fast!"

 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26


    A gunshot rang out, and the two of them immediately dove in opposite directions to avoid the bullet!


    However, a bang suddenly sounded in the air, and the hunter''s bullet exploded into buckshot. Ash and Sonya were unavoidably grazed by the pellets!


    Ash thought it would be painful, but as the bullets passed through his body, he only felt like he had lost something. His senses were like he had just finished running 400 meters and was exhausted.


    He suddenly remembered that he was currently in a consciousness state and not a real physical body. Getting hit by bullets only caused him to lose soul energy.


    In contrast to the enlightened Ash, Sonya, who had taken virtual world enhancement sses, had anticipated this.


    After dodging, she immediately charged at the hunter while raising her wooden sword high and shing down at the hunter from afar. The sword gathered faint white light, transforming into a crescent wave that rushed towards the hunter as it swung!


    "Vibration Sword!"


    This was the Vlozrada family''s secret inherited spirit - the Vibration Sword! A rtively rare ranged attack spirit in the sword art system that could derive powerful attacks like ''Rippling sh'' and ''Silver Wheel Explosion''!


    "Three thousand skills, a gun in hand, speed is key, unbreakable and unstoppable!"


    The hunter chanted as he dodged and the barrel of his long gun shone with light. Unbelievably, it fired another bullet even though it looked like an ancient flintlock rifle!


    But Ash and Sonya, who were prepared this time, were naturally no longer flustered. Not to mention Ash dodging with azy roll, Sonya directly drew her sword in a sh step, lunged forward, and unleashed a spinning vibration sh!


    ng!


    Not only was the bullet directly deflected, but the hunter several steps away was also severely shed by the spinning vibration sh, even breaking the barrel of his long gun!


    Without another word, Ash rushed up and bear hugged the hunter. Sonya, who had recovered from the sh step, hurried over in three quick steps and raised her wooden sword to sh down fiercely!


    Without a sound, the hunter dissipated into a swirl of mist under the crushing blow of the wooden sword. A leather-bound notebook fell onto the rocky ground.


    "Hey, hey, hey, you almost blew my head off!"


    Ash looked at the sword embedded in the rock and stroked his head apprehensively.


    "But I didn''t, did I?" Sonya''s tone was full of regret as she bent down to pick up the leather notebook and flipped through a couple pages before shaking her head and handing it to Ash.


    Ash took it and saw that it was a...hunting record, so to speak.


    The first page contained information about a rat - its weight, size, fur color, cause of death, and even a photo of the rat nailed to a wall by an arrow.


    The second page was about a spider, the third about a rabbit, the fourth about a badger... By the tenth page, there were finally some differences, not just because the prey was a ferocious carnivore - a wolf - but also because the record keeper had learned a new skill: he had trapped and killed the wolf.


    By the twenty-third page, the creature documented in the notebook was an armored beastman soldier wielding a long gun.


    The next twenty pages were all beastman soldiers shot dead, but what caught Ash''s attention more was that the notebook''s owner seemed to have abandoned his previous archery skills and started using the long guns brought by the beastman soldiers,bining them with traps in the jungle he could navigate blindfolded, to single-handedly confront an entire beastman troop.


    There were no details written about the notebook owner, but Ash could vaguely make out a story: A boy born in a hunting family, living in a jungle vige, inheriting his forefathers'' hunting skills. Suddenly, invading beastman troops destroyed everything. The archery they took pride in could not prate beastman armor, yet the beastmen''s firearms easily shattered their bodies.


    The boy abandoned the bow, learned gunnery at an astonishing speed, and like the grim reaper, hunted beastman soldiers in this jungle where he could walk blindfolded, avenging his vigers.


    From the expressions on the beastmen''s faces when they died, the boy''s terror could be seen: The ones who died earliest had calm expressions, probably ambushed while pissing or shitting. Theter ones had increasingly frightened looks - clearly they were fleeing. The veryst ones had even discarded their weapons and hidden in bushes, faces full of piety, as if begging the god of death to overlook them.


    After the beastman troops were annihted, the notebook owner seemed to go through a period of confusion. His prey included animals, humans, beastmen, goblins, tycoons, bandits, prostitutes, andmoners.


    After over a hundred pages, his hunting targets suddenly became fixed: beastmen.


    There were a full three hundred pages of records about different beastmen he had hunted.


    Although it was never stated outright, Ash could guess a thing or two from the beastmen''s causes of death:


    Firstly, the beastmen were all killed by the notebook owner with a ''Devotee Model 5 Standard Rifle''.


    Secondly, the beastmen had more than one bullet hole in them.


    Therefore, Ash deduced that the notebook owner had probably joined the army and killed beastmen in the war.


    And he didn''t just kill soldiers. There were also children, women, elders, and even his ownrades... No matter who the other party was, he never changed weapons, always ending their lives with a single bullet.


    After that, the notebook owner seemed to have made his fortune and settled down, evidenced not just by his prey changing to herbivores like rabbits and deer, but also by the people dying at his hands no longer being soldiers and bandits, but maids, servants, and ves.


    It''s worth noting that the servants seemed to die at a fairly frequent rate.


    He probably had an estate, with many servants waiting on him. But due to the aftereffects of war, he kept his gun on him at all times. If he ever grew suspicious, he would shoot the servants without hesitation...


    Suddenly, an old woman appeared in the hunting records.


    Ash guessed she was probably the notebook owner''s wife, because the look in her eyes was not shock, fear, or confusion, butpassion.


    Compassion for the notebook owner.


    When Ash turned to thest page, he was certain the dead person listed was the notebook owner:


    Cabin Storley


    Human Male 56 years old


    Weight: 72 kg


    Height: 1.76 meters


    Features: Brown skin, hairy, foxy smell


    Cause of death: Killed by arrow


    The photo showed a weary but well-dressed old man who had already raised his gun at his enemy, but he would never get to pull the trigger, because an arrow had pierced his eye and gone through his head.


    Ash didn''t know who had killed him with the bow and arrow - maybe an old enemy, maybe the old woman''s son, or maybe a burr. Nor did he know why the battle-hardened veteran had been slower than the arrow this time, whether due to a sluggish body or underestimating the bow.


    In any case, Cabin Storley''s hunting records ended here. Perhaps his name would appear in someone else''s records.


    Flipping to the end, Ash found an iron medal tucked inside. He couldn''t read the words on the medal, but since it was iron, it probably wasn''t valuable - most likely Cabin''s first medal in life.


    Maybe this medal represented the golden moments in Cabin''s life.


    Ash picked up the medal and felt a warm current flow into his hand. A message then popped up in the light curtain:


    Rapid Fire


    One Wing Spirit


    Limitation: Requires ranged shooting tool


    Basic Effect: Allows a second shot immediately after firing once.


    Passive Effect: Increases uracy of ranged shots.


    "Sometimes those few lost seconds can never be chased down in a lifetime."


    At the same time, a message automatically popped up in the game:


    "Currency exchange detected. Convert to points?"

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27


    Ashe had almost forgotten that Sorcerer Handbook was a game that allowed recharging.


    He thought the source crystals he obtained from daily check-ins were the only source for summoning, not expecting there was recognized currency in this world.


    Regardless of the value being high or low, this discovery motivated Ashe again �C like when your boss tells you ��work hard and I��ll promote you next time��, even knowing the hope is slim, at least there��s still a glimmer.


    But he didn��t dare recharge with the medals right away, because he could tell these medals were the transcendental foundation and source of power sorcerers desperately sought in this world �C spirit arts!


    ��Do you want this spirit art?�� he asked.


    To Ashe''s surprise, Sonya didn��t seem very interested in this spirit art: ��If you want it, then take it.��


    Now Ashe was the curious one: ��But this is a spirit art, don��t you want it?��


    ��It��s neither a sword spirit art, nor a universal one. I have no use for it and it would just waste my money.��


    ��What does money have to do with it?�� Ashe asked, confused.


    Sonya gave Ashe a strange look. The observer was subtly mocking her for being poor. After all, the observer could sail a small ship in the virtual world, how could he not understand such basic sorcerer knowledge?


    Or was the observer a rich nobleman who was simply ignorant ofmon sense? There were often suchical tropes in novels about ��rich noblesckingmon sense��. She didn''t expect to encounter this nearly extinct species in real life!


    With Sonya''s exnation, Ashe realized the ecosystem of spirit arts in this world was far moreplex than he imagined.


    Firstly, spirit arts needed to be fed, and circting currency was used to feed them!


    Silver coins, gold coins, those were the main staples for spirit arts. One-wing spirit arts required silver coins, two-wing spirit arts required gold coins. Spirit arts without proper feeding would dissipate on their own. Some poor sorcerers really could inadvertently starve their spirit arts to death!


    In addition to currency, spirit arts could also be fed with other materials, but each spirit art needed different feeding materials, which was extremely troublesome to find. Silver and gold coins were universal feeding staples for all spirit arts, so over time, sorcerers didn''t even know how to properly feed their own spirit arts. As long as they stuffed money down the spirits'' throats, the job was done.


    On top of that, the mere existence of spirit arts consumed sorcerers'' mental strength. Sorcerers with many spirit arts were like men with many girlfriends - their wallets and even their bodies couldn''t handle it.


    Therefore, for low-level sorcerers, especially those with fine proletariat traditions, more spirit arts was definitely not better. They had to be selective in choosing suitable spirit arts for themselves. ''Fewer but better'' was the developmental strategy for most low-level sorcerers.


    Secondly, there were usage restrictions on spirit arts.


    Based on restrictions, spirit arts were divided into factions, such as sword factions requiring swords, gun factions requiring guns, masochist factions requiring strong physique, fist factions relying on fists, and so on. Spirit arts with high requirements for the sorcerer were specific faction arts, also known as specialized arts, such as ''Vibration Sword'', which required a sword to invoke.


    Spirit arts without particr requirements, or with easily met requirements for the vast majority of sorcerers, were called universal arts, such as ''Eagle Eyes'', which any sorcerer with eyes could invoke.


    Generally speaking, a sorcerer''s spirit arts consisted of specialized and universal arts. It was best for specialized arts to not exceed two factions, while the number of universal arts depended onpatibility, avoiding unnecessary spirits.


    Even if Sonya took this ''Rapid Fire'' art, she would surely sell it instead of wasting her money keeping it.


    And the reason Sonya had zero interest in this art was because ''Rapid Fire'' wasn''t valuable.


    "''Rapid Fire'' was a product of the flintlock era from hundreds of years ago. It''s the automatic rifle and automatic pistol era now. Handguns can already unleash seven bullets per second, there''s no need for ''Rapid Fire'' anymore." Sonya spread her hands helplessly, "Although ''Rapid Fire'' can also be used on mortars and naval guns, there are better spirit art options that won''t use ''Rapid Fire''."


    "Outdated spirit arts like this, schools purchase them for at most one silver coin - also the minimum purchase price for a one-wing spirit art."


    Ashe already knew the swordswoman attended school, but he didn''t pay it much attention, thinking it was just game setting.


    "Then I''ll take it!"


    "Go ahead, go ahead." Sonya didn''t care.


    Ashe silently incanted, and the medal in his hand dissipated into white mist. A message popped up in game: "Recharge sessful! You obtained 10 points."


    The lowest purchase option in game was 6 points for 1 source crystal, so this ''Rapid Fire'' art was only worth 1.5 source crystals. A single summon required 3 source crystals, meaning two one-wing spirits equaled one summon.


    Spirit arts were transcendental powers after all, how could their price be as pitiful as a college graduate''s... Ashe clicked his tongue and looked down at the Hunting Notes in hand: "What about this notebook then?"


    "A sorcerer handbook!" Sonya gave Ashe a strange look.


    "Sorcerer handbook?" Ashe was startled.


    Sonya nodded.


    "The sorcerer handbook summarizes a sorcerer''s life in some way. For example, this handbook recorded information on the hunting targets of this gunmage''s life, indicating hunting was the most important part of his life. Well, it''s basically the sorcerer''s diary."


    "But this isn''t a diary the sorcerer voluntarily wrote. After a sorcerer''s death, their soul automatically returns to the virtual world and bes a sorcerer projection. Then their life''s memories precipitate into a book - like birth, old age, sickness and death, this is an unavoidable naturalw."


    "We collectively call this book the sorcerer handbook."


    "If the virtual world is the sorcerer''s graveyard, then the sorcerer handbook is their tombstone."


    Only then did Ashe realize the hunter from earlier was a dead person''s projection. He thought it was a living person!


    But even if it was alive he wouldn''t have shown mercy, after all death wasn''t truly death in the virtual world.


    Sonya said, "Like medals, sorcerer handbooks can also be used. You can directly absorb the handbook with your consciousness, gaining one random skill from the handbook owner not belonging to any spellcasting factions -pletely random."


    Ashe asked, "Do you want it then?"


    "I don''t want it, reading a few pages already tired me out." Sonya shook her head, "But you read the entire handbook, absorbing it definitely won''t contaminate you."


    "Contaminate?"


    "Sorcerer handbooks have contaminating effects. Generally, sorcerers can only read handbooks with simr worldviews, values, and outlooks on life to avoid contamination. Forcibly absorbing unsuitable sorcerer handbooks can damage the soul, even causing mental fragmentation."


    "That serious?"


    "It''s serious, but easily preventable since you''ll feel unwell while reading the sorcerer handbook if absorbing it would be problematic."


    Speaking of which, Sonya was also curious: "From what I''ve heard, the average sorcerer encountering ten handbooks would be lucky to absorb two or three. Many sorcerers don''t even encounter absorbable handbooks in their lifetime... How do you directly absorb any random sorcerer handbook you pick up without contamination?"


    Ashe naturally couldn''t answer this. Following Sonya''s instructions, he guided his consciousness to touch the Hunting Notes in hand.


    The Hunting Notes turned into a light smoke entering his body. Before long, Ashe felt like a block of ice in his mind melted, suddenly gaining a lot of indescribable knowledge.


    He opened the Operator Management in game, discovering he had gained a new skill.


    Anti-reconnaissance Expertise


    As a jungle hunter and war soldier, even if Cabin Storley never formally studied anti-reconnaissance, he must have honed this survival skill through war. For Ashe who nned to escape, anti-reconnaissance coulde in handy.


    After Ashe absorbed the Hunting Notes, they discovered the small ind was sinking. They hurried back to the ship, and before long the indpletely vanished. The sea surface was tranquil and serene, as if nothing had ever happened.


    "That''s the strangeness of the virtual world - fleeting encounters, only for inheritance." Sonya sighed sentimentally, "The sea of knowledge contains countless inds of inheritance, quietly waiting for newborn sorcerers to discover them. Once sorcerers take the inheritance, the inds naturally return to the sea... Some say the inds are materializations of sorcerers'' obsessions, traces they hope future generations will remember them by, so they leave their inheritance on the sea''s surface."


    "All sorcerers'' traces of life are deeply engraved in the virtual world. We''ll encounter the inheritance of countless predecessors here, battle gunmages from hundreds of years ago, converse with sages from thousands of years ago, everything is possible... And our traces will also be engraved in the virtual world. Hundreds of yearster when some sorcerer tears through the white fog, they will also encounter the challenges we left behind."


    "That sounds romantic."


    "Does it? Do you think you can unreservedly pass down your life for future generations to admire your grand achievements?"


    Ashe immediately felt it wasn''t romantic: "Can sorcerers delete some life records before they die? Like Learning Materials, Art and Life, and stuff like that..."


    "How to die with dignity and how to live shamefully have always been the two major important research projects for sorcerers."


    Although Sonya got nothing good while Ashe took everything, she was very rxed. She stretchedzily on the ship: "Where to next? You decide, I''ll listen to you."


    The ind battle could hardly be called thrilling. If Ashe could always find these inheritance inds, Sonya was very willing to take risks.


    As long as they encountered a sword spirit art or suitable sorcerer handbook even once, she would profit tremendously.


    Many sorcerers only hoped to safely explore the virtual world. Forget encountering virtual world inheritance, not running into danger was already enough to delight and satisfy them.


    "Let me see..."


    Ashe opened Virtual World Exploration to check the surrounding grid conditions:


    Waste of effort, Waste of effort, Waste of effort, Waste of effort, Better not go, Waste of effort, Waste of effort, Waste of effort.


    "Huh?"

 Chapter 28

    Chapter 28


    "Did it chase after us?"


    "No...I don''t think so? It can''t swim right?"


    "What kind of route did you take us on? This is downright dangerous!"


    "I warned you beforehand that it would be a bit risky. Who was the one earlier who confidently said it would be no problem, like a student with a cheat sheet?"


    "You call this just a bit dangerous!?"


    In the misty Sea of Knowledge, Ashe and Sonyay gasping for breath on a small boat, their figures as faint as the surrounding mist, as if they could dissipate at any moment. Even their bickering was weak and listless.


    Just moments ago, after nearly an hour of fruitless sailing, Ashe couldn''t resist suggesting to Sonya that they explore the "Best to Avoid" areas on the map. Sonya, a novice to the Virtual World brimming with confidence, agreed. So the two of them broke through the mist into the dangerous zone.


    However, not only were there no legacy inds in the dangerous zone, there was a giant winged fish that directly overturned Ashe''s small boat and could spit water cannons, sending fountains of water dozens of meters high into the air.


    Merely grazing the water cannon had worn away Ashe and Sonya''s bodies as if they had been sanded hundreds of times.


    Fortunately the small boat was very sturdy, and though overturned it still floated firmly on the water''s surface. The two of them crawled and tumbled back into the boat, paddling with their hands to hastily leave the dangerous area.


    That giant fish could actually chase them, even flying to ram the small boat. It was only by Ashe''s quick thinking to use "Virtual Exploration" to elerate the boat and narrowly avoid the charging fish''s head, without surrendering their first drop of virtual world blood.


    Catching their breath, Sonya looked at the drenched Ashe, a glint of puzzlement shing in her beautiful eyes as she asked casually, "You don''t have a way to kill that mud carp dragon?"


    Ashe, unsuspecting, panted, "If even you can''t do it, how could I possibly?"


    The Observer is this weak?


    Various thoughts shed through Sonya''s mind, but ultimately sank into silence. Even if the Apocalypse Observer was very weak, she was powerless. She had no way to kill the Observer, and still hadn''t found a way to resist the Observer''s control over her actions and insight through the virtual world mist, even Professor Trotzam hadn''t noticed the Observer''s existence.


    Moreover, after the Observer had disyed the ability to explore the virtual world, Sonya''s attitude had subtly shifted, awed by the Observer''s capabilities, even starting to anticipate the bright future under the Observer''s lead, verging on corruption.


    Originally Sonya had wanted to ask the Observer why she had been chosen, what made her special, but she thought better of it: What if the Observer suddenly realized "Oh right, what do I need you for," and then abandoned Sonya? Then wouldn''t she have missed an opportunity to be superior to others?


    Also, if the Observer didn''t have formidable abilities, how had he controlled her actions, seen through the virtual world mist, and pulled her into the dream trials?


    She had to be wary of the Observer feigning weakness!


    If Sonya fell for it, the Observer might take advantage to arrange even harsher punishments and mistreat her!


    "Speaking of which, what kind of creature was that fish earlier?"


    Here ites, asking memon sense questions, pretending, just pretending with all his might!


    Sonya yed along cooperatively: "A mud carp dragon, one of the mostmon knowledge creatures in the virtual world. Killing it can obtain water mage or earth mage arcane spirits, and if that mud carp dragon had previously killed other mages, it may also contain their arcane spirits."


    There were only two kinds of intelligent creatures in the virtual world, mages and knowledge creatures.


    As the name suggested, as long as a mage killed a knowledge creature, they could obtain the creature''s condensed knowledge��arcane spirits.


    Unlike a mage''s legacy, the arcane spirits dropped by knowledge creatures were not fixed. Although they would basically drop spirits of the same school of magic, like how a mud carp dragon would not drop fire mage arcane spirits, the various arcane spirits of the same school could be different. The knowledge creatures'' loot would also change along with version updates.


    For example, if a real-life mage invented a new knowledge system and summoned new varieties of arcane spirits, then when other mages in the virtual world killed knowledge creatures, they could directly get drops of the newly invented versions of arcane spirits.


    If the new knowledge system was extremely novel and outrageous, it could even directly spawn new varieties of knowledge creatures, expanding the diversity of life forms in the virtual world.


    Like "equal opportunity," this was another important premise for mage equality: "equal knowledge."


    No one could forever monopolize knowledge. No matter how you guarded your newly invented knowledge, other mages could still obtain your achievements in the virtual world. If you wanted to maintain an advantage, you had to keep innovating.


    Those who clung to the past, hoping a single invention would grant them permanent leading superiority, were no different than the fools who lingered too long in one ce in the virtual world.


    If you didn''t take risks, the virtual world would swallow you; if you didn''t innovate, reality would beat you down.


    After exining knowledge creatures, Sonya couldn''t resist probing, "Since you know there''s danger in the mist, can''t you detect what kind of creature it is?"


    "I can''t detect it. I only know the level of danger to us in the mist, but I can''t know exactly what the danger is."


    Sonya was a little disappointed. "Then I guess you also can''t find that golden fish."


    "Golden fish?" Ashe was confused. "What''s that?"


    As if asked by someone "What''s 1 plus 1," Sonya twisted her lips. A thought suddenly popped into her head: Is he trying to cultivate my obedience by asking me moronic questions? If I rebel against him, will he feel my loyalty is insufficient and then mistreat me with harsh punishments?


    With this thought, Sonya became alert and earnestly answered the moronic question: "The golden fish floats on the Sea of Knowledge''s surface. Its back is the Temporal Continent, and the Temporal Continent is where two-wing mages go..."


    "Wait, continent?" Ashe interrupted. "How big is this fish then?"


    "Very big. No one has ever seen the golden fish''s full form. It''s said even the smallest scale on the golden fish isparable to a great city that can hold millions of people."


    "Shouldn''t such a huge fish be very easy to find?"


    "On the contrary, only extremely few lucky people have found the golden fish in the Sea of Knowledge, and without exception those lucky people all became famed legendary mages."


    Ashe uttered an "Oh," then asked, "What''s the benefit of finding the golden fish then?"


    "Boarding the Temporal Continent and directly bing a two-wing mage."


    "What?"


    "Bing a two-wing mage directly." Sonya forcefully suppressed her impatience. She thought even the children she had tutored hadn''t been this moronic: "The biggest difference between one-wing and two-wing mages is that one-wing mages are in the Sea of Knowledge while two-wing mages are on the Temporal Continent."


    "When a one-wing mage''s arcane power reaches the extreme in the Sea of Knowledge, transforming into Silver Wings, then they can no longer obtain more arcane power while sailing. If they want to ascend to a higher realm, they must promote to two-wing.


    "The normal promotion path is for a mage to research knowledge, summon two-wing arcane spirits, then find the Gate of Truth within the two-wing arcane spirit to cross through the virtual world. Then they would arrive at the secondyer of the virtual world��the Temporal Continent. Only on the Temporal Continent can mages absorb more arcane power and condense their second virtual wings: Golden Wings."


    One-wing mages sail the Sea of Knowledge, condensing Silver Wings. Two-wing mages walk the Temporal Continent, condensing Golden Wings... Ashe initially grasped the mages'' power system, but had a question: "Can one-wing mages directly get to the Temporal Continent if they obtain someone else''s two-wing arcane spirit?"


    "Absolutely impossible." Sonya shook her head. "Unless it''s an arcane spirit you personally summoned, a mage cannot find the Gate of Truth within it. It''s very difficult to even search another''s arcane spirit��arcane spirits are formed from knowledge. If you don''t understand the arcane spirit''sposition, how can you explore its secrets?"


    Now Ashe understood the mages'' promotion path: summoning higher-tier arcane spirits, using the arcane spirits to cross into higher virtual world realms, bing stronger, then continuing to summon higher-tier arcane spirits in a cycle.


    Because of the two premises of "equal opportunity" and "equal knowledge," adventure and research permeated a mage''s entire life. No one couldfortably retire. As long as you were unwilling to give up current benefits, you had to keep adventuring and creating benefits.


    This process not only ensured the mage system''s healthy development, it also continually optimized any mage who stopped striving...kind of resembling a KPI system! It would be perfect with an elimination system at the end!


    Discovering that mages were just another kind of corporate drone, Ashe immediately became more confident: when it came to working and struggling, he had never lost to anyone!


    "Wait, if we can find the golden fish in the Sea of Knowledge and board the Temporal Continent, wouldn''t we be taking a backdoor shortcut to promotion?"


    "We prefer to call that kind of bottom-to-top boarding ''stowaways''...which is why all mages want to find the golden fish." Sonya shrugged. "Who can resist the temptation of unearned rewards? ...So can you find the golden fish?"


    "I wish I could."


    "Then why ask me so much? Keep sailing." Sonya looked at her somewhat illusory palm. "Don''t go to ces that will have battles. I''m a bit tired. Sailing one or two more areas and we''ll probably have to leave the virtual world."


    Ashe nodded. He also felt exhausted.


    Sailing the virtual world wasn''t without cost. Passing through the mist condensed arcane power for them, but also tempered their spirits at the same time, draining their soul energy. When soul energy decreased to a certain level, they would have to exit the virtual world to rest.


    Every ordinary voyage contained countless precious miracles.


    Ashe opened "Virtual Exploration" and as expected saw many more "Waste of Effort" and "Best Avoided."


    But this time, he actually saw the area in the bottom right corner of the map light up with golden radiance!


    The prompt below the area clearly read:


    "Wee"!

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29


    "So this is...a spirit."


    In the single cell dormitory of Shattered Lake Prison, Ashe looked at the spirit dressed in blue striped pajamas, sleeping soundly in his palm like a human child, and felt a sense of blood connection.


    During thest adventure in the virtual world tonight, Ashe and hispanion went to the area marked "Wee" in the white fog, where they discovered a Serendipity Ind.


    Unlike the Legacy Ind, Serendipity Ind had no dangers or trials, only wild spirits frolicking on the ind.


    When they stepped onto the ind, the spirits scattered in panic, and despite their quick reactions, they only managed to catch two spirits. The captured spirits resigned themselves to their bad luck and agreed to take them as masters.


    Each person got one spirit. The one Ashe got was the human child spirit sleeping soundly in his palm - "Body Double".


    "Body Double"


    "One Wing Spirit"


    "Limitation: The sorcerer must be a sapient creature."


    "Basic Effect: Creates an identical illusion of the target which shatters when impacted. If the target is a sapient creature, it will obey the sorcerer''smands."


    "Passive Effect: Slightly reduces pain."


    "''If it hurts, pretend you are someone else, and it won''t hurt anymore.''"


    The spirit hispanion got was a water-type spirit called "Raging Rapids".


    "Raging Rapids"


    "One Wing Spirit"


    "Limitation: Liquid must be present nearby."


    "Basic Effect: Shoots out a stream of water with impact force."


    "Passive Effect: Increases control over liquids."


    "''Gentle flow is life, raging flow is change. Nothing stays the same except flow itself.''"


    ording to hispanion, Raging Rapids spirits were highly sought after in her magic academy''s spirit trading tform, as they were rare offensive one wing spirits in the water element, capable of deriving powerful miracles, yet difficult to summon. Hence theymanded premium prices, even exceeding some two wing spirits.


    Although Ashe wanted to say she was just a character in a game so what use did she have for money, he reconsidered - it was probably an automatic leveling mechanism in the game, plus he needed her help for now, so antagonizing his only partner was out of the question - never offend the sole contributor during critical project phases!


    Thus they amiably divided the spoils, hispanion very satisfied, Ashe even more so, because Body Double was a crucial spirit for his Spell Severing miracle!


    Ashe''s top priority was to gather the spirit arts that could help him break free from the control chip in his neck, otherwise he wouldn''t even have a chance to escape from prison.


    He stared intently at the substitute spirit art in his palm, silently activating the mysterious mental energy in his mind.


    Ever since Ashe returned from the virtual world, he discovered that his mental consciousness had transitioned from virtual to real. This feeling was as if his imagination had truly be a physical force, or as if he had gained an invisible phantom limb that he could use to interact with everything in the real world.


    Without needing to ask, Ashe knew this mental energy was the arcane energy that the Swordswoman had mentioned many times. Arcane energy was the all-purpose fuel for sorcerers and the foundational power they used to invoke spirit arts. A sorcerer without arcane energy was no different than an ordinary person.


    In other words, as long as you have arcane energy, you are a sorcerer, even if you are the most inept one.


    But Ashe remembered that before he entered the virtual world, he didn''t have even a hint of arcane energy.


    He was very clear on the origin of this arcane energy. Because he had sailed through the virtual world together with the Swordswoman, shattering through eachyer of white fog not only tempered his spirit, but also gathered scattered knowledge for him. With this dual effect, the omnipotent fuel was generated - arcane energy.


    Therefore, after returning from the virtual world, not only did Ashe obtain spirit arts, he also gained arcane energy.


    In other words, he had be a bona fide high-purity sorcerer!


    However...


    Ashe tried using his mental tendrils to probe the substitute spirit art''s body, but the feedback he got was like the listeningprehension section of a Level 6 foreignnguage exam - he not only couldn''t understand it when strung together, even the individual descriptions made no sense.


    Thispletely matched what the Swordswoman had said, "Even if it''s not a spirit art you summoned yourself, you won''t be able to analyze its structure."


    Since he couldn''t analyze it, of course Ashe also couldn''t find the Gateway of Truth within the substitute spirit art.


    In other words, Ashe was a sorcerer incapable of entering the virtual world on his own!


    Thispletely contradicted the sorcerer system the Swordswoman had described - every sorcerer, whether gifted beyond measure or untalented, whether of noble birth or orphaned at the start, without exception first summoned spirit arts through learning and training, then entered the virtual world.


    From ancient times until now, there had never been an unlearned sorcerer!


    The term sorcerer itself meant a ''master of spells''. Every sorcerer could be the teacher of a skill!


    Yet now, an exception had appeared!


    Ashe Heath, an otherworldly unlearned soul, had crossed the threshold of knowledge and formally be a sorcerer!


    He suddenly recalled the legend of the golden fish and stowaway the Swordswoman had just mentioned.


    "When a silver-rank sorcerer finds a golden fish, they can stowaway to the Time Continent and be a gold-rank sorcerer. And I hitched a ride on the Swordswoman''s favoring wind, stowing away onto the Sea of Knowledge to be a silver-rank sorcerer..."


    When others stowed away, it was merely upward mobility within the ranks of sorcerers, akin to poption flow between different regions of the same country - an internal contradiction ultimately. But Ashe''s stowaway was like a tribal people scaling the walls into a developed country - it could be called a species invasion.


    This was absolutely a secret that could not be exposed, Ashe thought.


    Once other sorcerers discovered he was a stowaway, they would definitely not let him off in order to protect biodiversity.


    Substitute!


    Ashe silently thought in his mind, but nothing happened. The substitute spirit art still snoozed contently on his palm.


    The next second, a light curtain suddenly popped up, and streams of information shed across his vision.


    "Warning: You are attempting to output arcane energy! This is prohibited!"


    Ashe knocked his own head - right, since the control chip restricted him from entering the virtual world, of course it would also restrict his use of arcane energy!


    He had to bypass the chip to invoke the spirit arts'' miracles, but to bypass the chip he had to invoke the miracles to purify the chip... damn, he was stuck in an endless loop again!


    "Swordswoman A-Meng, save me��"


    "Swordswoman?"


    Ashe called out twice, but the dormitory remained empty. The elusive Swordswoman did not appear this time.


    On second thought, she had apanied him in the virtual world all night, no wonder she was tired. Virtual beings needed rest too. Best not disturb her today.


    "When hurt enough, sever with a hand, the curse of yesterday. Wait for dawn in the night, leaving just the scar..."


    Ashe looked up and realized it was already 8 am the next day. The prison morning song sounded on schedule.


    Time for breakfast. The Deathmatch Society still had a deathmatch awaiting him.


    In the meditation room of Swordflower College, Sonya slowly opened her eyes.


    She extended her palm, and a young girl spirit in a white dress appeared above it.


    If she publicized this spirit, it would surely attract much attention - gaining a harvest on the very first day in the virtual world was extremely rare, not to mention Sonya had obtained such a valuable prize.


    She hadn''t lied to the Observer. Raging Rapids spirits were indeed highly sought after in Swordflower College''s spirit trading tform. Even across the entire Cailleach, it ranked among the top tier one wing spirits.


    But she hadn''t revealed the full truth: Body Double spirits were also very valuable.


    In fact, general purpose spirits were naturally one tier above specialized spirits, unless their applications were too narrow. Otherwise one wing general spirits could fetch prices on par with two wing specialized spirits.


    After all, only specific element sorcerers needed specialized spirits, while all sorcerers could use general spirits, so supply fell far short of demand, naturally inting prices.


    Then why did she conceal this information?


    She wanted the Observer to discover this little ''scheme'' of hers.


    Back in the virtual world, Sonya had already noticed the Observer could no longer read her inner thoughts.


    Perhaps it was due to restrictions in the virtual world, but it hardly mattered - the Observer could listen to her inner voice again upon returning to reality anyway.


    When they obtained the Body Double and Raging Rapids spirits, even without seeing the Observer''s expression, she could tell from his bodynguage that he really wanted the Body Double spirit, so Sonya went with the flow and gave it to the Observer.


    After returning to reality, the Observer would be able to hear from Sonya''s inner voice: she knew the Body Double spirit''s value, yet pretended it was the Raging Rapids spirit she gained hugely from, in order to let the Observer ept the Body Double spirit unabashedly.


    This move had a hint of cunning, but the cunning was entirely for his benefit, and the methods were so artless that he saw through it - even if it didn''t strike the Observer, it could still greatly improve his goodwill towards her.


    I thought you were on the first level, I was on the second, but you saw through me from the third level, yet the truth is I was on the fourth level precisely hoping for you to see through me.


    But the premise was that Sonya had to conceal being on the fourth level herself. This wasn''t difficult for her - after two days of mental training, Sonya could already preliminarily control her thoughts, making herself only ponder what she wanted to ponder.


    Sonya withdrew the Raging Rapids spirit and left the meditation room.


    "Observer, I''m going back to shower, remember to look away."


    "Observer?"


    After leaving the meditation building, Sonya nced around, confirming the Observer really wasn''t present.


    The past two days, whenever Sonya called out, the Observer would emerge from Sonya''s blind spots without fail. Not appearing for so long this time could only mean one thing -


    After the virtual world exploration, the Observer also had to rest, suspending his 24/7 monitoring of Sonya.


    Yet Sonya felt no joy at regaining freedom, instead frustration like bringing back cake to eat in her dorm only to find the dorm toilet exploded!


    I finally found a chance to prepare a sugar-coated shell, yet you only ate the sugar coating before fleeing!

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30


    "Good morning, Sonya."


    Sonya turned around and saw her upperssman Sylviaing out from the meditation building. She couldn''t help but raise her eyebrows slightly.


    Although she said she didn''t want to get involved with Felix, it was actually very difficult for her to avoid him, since Felix was also Professor Trotzam''s student.


    Only a swordsmanship genius would have the chance toprehend the Hidden Hands Saint''s insights.


    After interacting with Felix several times, Sonya naturally got to know Sylvia as well. Just after a few brief encounters, Sonya realized that Sylvia was the same type of person as her - the kind of female hunter who would stop at nothing to climb upwards.


    Therefore, Sylvia naturally harbored hostility towards Sonya. After all, Felix was her prey, and now that Sonya had appeared, it was like she had painstakingly captured a rare animal, only to find a fully armed pet trainer standing next to the trap. Of course she would be wary.


    Although Sonya said she looked down on Felix, if this young master of the Vlozrada family was willing to be herpdog, she wouldn''t mind giving him a chance. So she was a bit hesitant and decided to wait and see.


    Sylvia looked Sonya up and down before taking half a step back, covering her nose, "This is your first time entering the Virtual World. You seem very excited."


    Are you serious about backing away like that?


    Although Sonya didn''t wash up after trainingst night, she did wipe herself down and change clothes, so there was no way she could smell. However, since she had juste out of the meditation room without washing her face or putting on makeup, contrasted with Sylvia''s fully decked out "bare face", she naturally looked unkempt like a stray dog on the street.


    With one look, Sonya knew that Sylvia''s "bare face" couldn''t have taken less than an hour to put on.


    "Good morning, Upperssman Sylvia." Sonya slightly nodded, "Did Upperssmane to the meditation building to borrow the washroom?"


    Sonya didn''t have the habit of turning the other cheek. Her sarcastic implication that Sylvia hadn''te to meditate but rather to put on makeup was wless and cursed without using foulnguage.


    "Of course I came here to meditate and enter the Virtual World." Sylvia forced a smile and held out her hand, "This is an inherited spirit I foundst night. What do you think, underssman?"


    A little boy spirit holding a sword sheath appeared above Sylvia''s hand. Sonya nced at it and her eyebrows immediately shot up as she recalled the information on this spirit.


    "Sword Sheath"


    "Single Winged Spirit"


    "Limitation: The sorcerer must use a sword weapon."


    "Basic Effect: When used with other sword spirits, the first activation of thetter every 10 seconds will have 150% effect."


    For a swordsman, the sword sheath was an extremely practical spirit. It could even lead to the creation of an assassination swordsmanship branch.


    Through miracles like "Sheath Absorbing Light", "Gathering Potential", and "Void Piercing Sword Qi", a swordsman could and could only release one sword qi that could break through all defenses of the same level. Its power surpassed all other mage branches. Those struck by it would certainly die.


    For a moment, Sonya even wanted to take out her Torrent spirit to trade with Sylvia.


    Although on the trading tform, Torrent spirit was more expensive than Sword Sheath spirit, spirits like these were often precious and unmarketable. It was difficult toe across a suitable sword spirit, and even if you did, you might not be able to snatch it up.


    But she saw the mocking look in Sylvia''s eyes and understood everything - thisdy came to show off on purpose.


    "Well, do you think Felix will like it?"


    Sonya suddenly felt a twinge of guilt - the way she acted in the dormitoryst night was probably just as annoying as Sylvia''s expression right now. She was really thankful that her roommates didn''t kill her.


    "I''m so jealous of your boyfriend." Sonya forced an ugly smile, "For a swordsman, this is a very precious spirit."


    "Is that so? Since you say so, I''ll believe it."


    Sylviaughed behind her hand. She was still vignt.


    After the swordsmanshippetition two nights ago, Sylvia assumed Felix would abandon her and go after Sonya, but unexpectedly, Felix didn''t have any intention to do so. He still treated her very well, only wanting to have another match with Sonya.


    Sylvia didn''t think Felix wanted to y the field. He wasn''t the kind of person to conceal his emotions. If he wanted to cheat, he would directly break up instead of cating Sylvia. Therefore, Sylvia believed Felix really wasn''t interested in Sonya, he was just obsessed with winning and losing.


    Even so, Sonya was still Sylvia''s formidable rival in her heart. After all, sparks between a man and woman were often struck through friction. Felix may not have any ideas now, but what about the next second? Tomorrow? Next week?


    As long as Felix drew breath, the possibility of him changing his heart existed.


    Therefore, Sylvia could only watch her boyfriend closely, not letting him have a chance to meet with Sonya privately, like right now.


    Not only that, she had to add to her own bargaining chips, deterring Sonya as much as possible to prevent problems before they urred.


    "Underssman, you have to work hard too." Sylvia encouraged, "I heard your family circumstances aren''t great. Compared to us local Cailleach kids, the fact that you could test into Swordflower College from the nationwide exam means your abilities are much stronger than ours. In the future, you''ll definitely be able to stay in Cailleach and bring your family to live in the big city."


    Here ites, the arrogant sense of superiority rich people feel towards the poor... Sonya revealed a friendly smile, "Thank you for your concern, Upperssman."


    "Ah, originally you were a bird that could have flown higher, it''s a pity your family dragged you down."


    Sylvia''s words were half fake and half sincere. She truly felt a little regret for Sonya. Not to mention aristocratic families, if Sonya was from a Cailleach middle-ss family, she definitely would have had better development. It was a pity she was just a country bumpkin from an impoverished farming town on the bordends.


    She didn''t notice Sonya''s gaze had already changed.


    "You''re right, Upperssman."


    Sonya paused for a bit before revealing a helpless smile, "Often, a person''s starting point determines their ending point. Birth is our first lottery ticket, I only drew a constion prize."


    Sylvia thought she might have been too harsh, making Sonya break down, and pondered what to say tofort the underssman.


    "Someone low-ss like me is destined to never change their vulgar nature. Speaking of which, after talking with you for so long, I forgot I haven''t washed my face. Chatting with Upperssman with this sloppy face, I''m truly being too rude."


    "No need to say that..."


    Just when Sylvia wanted to offer Sonya some words offort, she saw Sonya summon a spirit with her hand emitting a ball of water that sshed onto her face.


    "After washing my face, I feel much fresher."


    Sylvia stared at the spirit in Sonya''s hand, "This is..."


    "Ah?" Sonya looked a little startled, her gaze wandering as she stammered, "This, this is what I...I got from the Virtual Worldst night! Yeah, this is the Torrent spirit I got from the Isle of Serendipity! Don''t you think I''m pretty lucky?"


    Sylvia let out an "oh" as three big words were written on her forehead: I! Don''t! Believe!


    How could anyone encounter the Isle of Serendipity on their first day entering the Virtual World?


    And obtain one of the most precious water mage spirits, Torrent!?


    Are you trying to trick me for a fool?


    Could she have bought it? But how could a country bumpkin have the money to buy such a precious spirit? And Torrent spirits were priceless rarities. Sylvia had wanted to buy one for a long time but couldn''t find any sellers!


    Since she didn''t buy it, then someone must have gifted it to her.


    At Swordflower College, people who could casually take out a Torrent spirit were not many...


    Sylvia barely tidied her expression and forced a smile. "This is a very important spirit for the water mage branch. Underssman, do you n to switch to training in water magics?"


    "Mm, although I have talent in swordsmanship, I''m also interested in water magics..." Seeing Felix emerge from the meditation building, Sonya hurriedly waved goodbye, "Upperssman, I have something to do. I''ll be going first, see youter!"


    Just as Sylvia was wondering why Sonya was in such a hurry, she turned her head to see Felix who had juste out from the building.


    "Upperssman, were you waiting for me?" Felix smiled, "The Virtual World really is a fascinating ce... I want to go to the library to read up more on information about the Virtual World. Would Upperssman like toe along?"


    Sylvia nced in the direction Sonya had left, then looked back at Felix. She felt like she understood something, jealously gnawing at her.


    But the thousands of words that surged to her throat only turned into one sweet response.


    "Sure." She smiled and held out her hand, "This is a Sword Sheath spirit I obtained from the Virtual Worldst night, but I don''t practice swordsmanship... Underssman, what do you think I should do with this spirit?"

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31


    Shattered Lake Prison Cafeteria


    Perhaps because he came especially early today, Ashe found the cafeteria filled with inmates having breakfast. Upon closer observation, his horizons were broadened: besides humans, beastmen, and goblins, there were also many other species in the prison, crawling on the ground, having two horns, four hands...


    Ashe even saw a particrly voluptuous female with exposed skin, hooves, and fuzzy ears. He didn''t know what race she was, which piqued his strong interest in and wondrous fantasies about the healthcare industry in this world.


    He wasn''t into furries, but...


    "Are you ordering food?"


    The soul-piercing question from the cafeteria aunt brought Ashe''s gaze back.


    Ashe randomly ordered a few filling dishes. Seeing there was a ''limit one per person'' special food at the window that looked particrly tempting, he asked, "Auntie, what''s this?"


    "The Royal Seafood L Fatty, a seasonal delicacy with very limited supply. If youe anyter it''ll be gone," the aunt said.


    "Okay, give me one..."


    "Give me five!"


    A deep, rumbling voice interrupted Ashe''s words. He turned to see a green-skinned beastman getting food. Hearing the voice, the aunt on the other side immediately took the remaining five portions of seafoodla fatty and dumped them into its huge food bowl.


    "Huh? It gets five portions just because it said so?"


    Ashe was dumbfounded.


    "It''s a beastman." The aunt spoke matter-of-factly.


    "Why do beastmen get five portions?"


    "Beastmen just get five portions, it''s always been this way."


    "It took five portions, now there''s none left for me... How can this be allowed��"


    Ashe''s words suddenly stuck in his throat. A light screen popped up, filled with rows of red warnings that crowded his vision:


    ��Warning: You are attempting to make racist remarks! This is prohibited! In the Blood Moon Kingdom, racial equality is the foremost principle! Please be aware!��


    Saying beastmen eat too much counts as racism!?


    Feeling resentful, Ashe took his tray to find a seat, only to see the cafeteria fully upied. He finally spotted an empty spot, but next to it sat a big-bottomed blue-skinned monster, looking even more ferocious than the beastman and taking up two seats.


    The old Ashe would have definitely turned and left, but this was Shattered Lake Prison. The other party couldn''ty a finger on him, so Ashe swaggered over confidently.


    "Hey, you''re taking two seats, move over."


    The blue-skinned monster eating with its hands nced at him, then lowered its head to continue eating.


    "I''m an ogre."


    "Oh, and so? Even ogres can''t take two seats��"


    ��Warning: You are attempting to make racist remarks! This is prohibited! In the Blood Moon Kingdom, racial equality is the foremost principle! Please be aware!��


    Saying it''s butt is taking two seats counts as racism too!?


    Ashe almost wanted to curse, but the words stuck in his throat. He wanted to flip his tray over, but his hands froze.


    Under the control of the nape chip, every inmate was the most faithful follower of thew. They had the utmost freedom as long as they didn''t vite anyws or morals, but if they even touched the boundaries with a word or look, invisible shackles would tightly bind them.


    Suddenly, a pat on his shoulder. The brawny man beside him picked up his tray and stood up, signaling for Ashe to take this seat.


    Ashe thanked him and found this burly man looked vaguely familiar - he seemed to be the one Ashe saw at the Deathmatch Society yesterday.


    "Desmond," he introduced himself briefly, shooting the ogre and goblin at the table contemptuous looks. "I''m going to the Deathmatch Society first. We can have a round if we get the chance."


    Hearing they were from the Deathmatch Society, the others looked up and scooted away slightly. Ashe sat down and listened to the ogre''s tractor-like chewing sounds beside him, watching the goblin across from him eating crumbs and making a mess everywhere. A strong desire to escape welled up within him.


    Unlike escaping, which was because he knew he''d die if he stayed, escaping was because he detested this environment.


    Thest time he felt this way was when he encountered a stupid supervisor during his internship. If it was a stupid colleague, he could still fight back, still y tricks; but if it was a stupid supervisor, he had no recourse but to endure, not even able to verbally resist.


    He could feel wronged, he could suffer, because enduring was for the day he no longer needed to endure.


    But if it was a stupid supervisor, it meant having to always endure. What was the point of working so hard, going overtime everywhere? He might as well quit, the next boss could be better.


    The situation now was much worse than a stupid supervisor - the whole environment was stupid.


    You were clearly furious, but couldn''t say a thing; you wanted to resist, but your body wouldn''t obey.


    Ashe suddenly had a moment of enlightenment.


    He had thought Shattered Lake Prison really treated the inmates well.


    But in fact, throwing this bunch of abhorrent death row inmates together without allowing any transgressions between them, making them desperately create value for the prison to avoid the Blood Moon Tribunal, was actually a form of mental lingchi.


    Extinguishing their anger.


    Shattering their hopes.


    Eliminating their courage.


    Destroying their spine.


    nting seeds of despair, repression, regret, fear and more to take root and grow wild inside them until they were skin and bones, driven insane and copsed. They would appear at the Blood Moon Tribunal as ''perfect scapegoats'', weing their rightful miserable oue.


    Ashe could also understand why the Deathmatch Society had so many members.


    It was the only ce where death row inmates could vent their frustrations, the only ce with a breath of fresh air in this prison.


    It was like a trash can.


    Interestingly, it was Ashe, unable to tolerate the environment, who was the trash. The death row inmates able to leisurely enjoy themselves were the model inmates of this prison.


    After quickly finishing his meal, Ashe also hurried to where the trash should go.


    There were no ongoing deathmatches in the Deathmatch Society. The bright interior allowed Ashe to spot Langna lying in his boyfriend''s arms from afar.


    Maybe it was his imagination, but Ashe felt Langna''s boyfriend looked slightly thinner than yesterday.


    No way, wasn''t Langna the one who used to drain others?


    "Ashe," Langna raised his hand in greeting. "You''re here so early, just had breakfast? Wanna rest and digest first since Valcas isn''t here yet anyway?"


    Ashe nodded and randomly found a ce to sit. Someone immediately came over to sit next to him.


    "Sylin Dole."


    "Who?"


    Ashe looked at Igor beside him warily.


    Igor raised his eyebrows. "No need to be nervous, I''ve no interest in challenging you to a deathmatch. I won''t participate in any fight I don''t have certainty in, nor waste time over worthless things like face. I take wins and losses, and ept things fair and square."


    "With your dirty tactical mind, I don''t trust you."


    "Then let''s skip the pointless prelude and go straight into the most ancient human interaction��"


    "Mating?"


    "Trade, trade!" Igor enunciated each word clearly as if wanting to bite them and draw blood. "You answer one of my questions, I''ll answer one of yours."


    "I''ve got no questions for you."


    "Really? Don''t you want to know why that elf Valcas took the initiative to challenge you?"


    Elf?


    Ashe was surprised inwardly but didn''t show it outwardly.


    "Alright, I am a bit curious, but how do I know you won''t lie?"


    "How do I know you won''t lie to me either?" Igorughed. "We''re taking the same risk."


    "What''s the point of this trade then?"


    "Because I''m confident in my ability to tell if you''re lying. Even if you do lie I can guess the truth. And you can do the same��"


    "I can''t. I''m not well-read, you''ll definitely trick me."


    Igor was rendered speechless, seemingly the first time seeing someone so self-aware.


    After a moment of silence, he reluctantly said, "Then I''ll just tell you the info first. You judge if it''s valuable, and if so, answer my question, okay?"


    With this aggrieved tone, he was like a Sichuanese person agreeing to hotpot... Ashe thought about it and didn''t feel he would suffer a loss or be duped, so he nodded.


    "Valcas Uhl used to be a researcher at Caimon Comprehensive University. He was imprisoned for allegedly stealing important patented technologies, illegally raising children, and killing colleagues. Due to his elven identity, he''s the only inmate who didn''t participate in the Blood Moon Tribunal in his first month here. He''s been in prison for five years without a single Tribunal."


    Ashe let out a sound of realization. He remembered Langna saying every death row inmate had to participate in the first Blood Moon Tribunal. That was called ''walking through'', just walking through would earn the qualification to create value at Shattered Lake. Unable to walk through meant only being qualified as fertilizer.


    "How can he skip the Blood Moon Tribunal? Because of his elven identity? Isn''t racial equality the foremost principle of the Blood Moon Kingdom?"


    "Of course racial equality is the foremost principle."


    Igor had an inscrutable smile.


    "But some races are more equal than others."


    As expected, equality was a horizon, existing everywhere yet unreachable anywhere... Ashe didn''t have muchment for this. After all, he hadn''t been here long and didn''t know much about how ''racial equality'' was implemented.


    "So why does he want to challenge me?"


    "That''s tied to the crimes hemitted. Although stealing patented technologies and killing colleagues were severe crimes, they weren''t enough to send him to Shattered Lake Prison. What truly incurred the authorities'' wrath was him illegally raising children!"


    Ashe was dumbfounded.


    What the hell?


    "Why is illegally raising children the most serious crime?"


    "Because it''s prohibited. No one can illegally raise children."


    Ashe grew more confused.


    "If no one raises children, then how did you...how did we grow up?"


    "We grew up in foster care of course," Igor frowned deeply. "Socialized fostering is a fundamental national policy in the Blood Moon Kingdom. Are you nitpicking by asking this?"


    Socialized fostering?


    Ashe tried his best to understand this unfamiliar term. "You mean we were all raised by the state, everyone is..."


    He wanted to say ''orphans without fathers or mothers'' but the words stuck in his throat.


    Not because the chip was stopping him this time.


    But because Ashe simply couldn''t find the vocabry.


    He racked Ashe Heath''s brain but found no equivalent for words like ''father'', ''mother'' in his native vocabry! The only remotely rted term was ''guardian''!


    There was no stronger evidence than this.


    Even the vocabry for ''parents'' didn''t exist, enough to prove there were no such roles in the Blood Moon Kingdom''s social rtions!


    Moreover, socially fostered orphans, nape chips that controlled everyone''s speech and conduct...


    Ashe suddenly felt a tinge of fear toward the world outside the prison.


    Just what kind of world did I get transmigrated to!

 Chapter 32

    Chapter 32


    Igor felt confused.


    After asking him an incredibly stupid question, Ashe Heath had suddenly fallen into deep thought.


    Of course Ashe wasn''t an idiot, Igor would never admit defeat to an idiot.


    "Have you already guessed the reason for Valcas''s challenge?"


    Ashe snapped back to reality and tentatively asked, "Because of that child?"


    Igor nodded.


    "I thought the same."


    "Valcas was well-behaved in prison for five years, rarely challenging anyone. Just harvesting those who looked down on him was enough to livefortably.


    "This time he suddenly jumped out, besides because of that child, there is no other reason. Back then he dared to risk disgrace and imprisonment just to raise that child, which is enough to prove how much he valued that child."


    "That child had already received education in foster care and could be essed by many people. But the ''key person'' who could connect that child, Valcas, and you, there is only one."


    "That is Sylin Dole."


    Meeting Igora''s confident gaze, Ashe vaguely felt this was a name he should know.


    But he just didn''t know it!


    "Who is Sylin?"


    Igor stared into Ashe''s eyes and suddenly said, "Don''t move."


    He stretched out his finger and poked Ashe''s face. "Ask again."


    "Who is Sylin?"


    Igor froze for a moment and sighed, withdrawing his hand.


    "Sylin Dole is a history professor at Caimon University, and also the chairman of the Elven Rights Association. He has many other titles, but they are irrelevant to you. The most relevant is that he is the advisor of the Ancient Artifacts Research Society at Caimon University."


    The Ancient Artifacts Research Society?


    Ashe blinked. He realized a possibility.


    "I used to be a member of the Ancient Artifacts Research Society?"


    "To be precise, you are still the chairman of the Ancient Artifacts Research Society. Although I have no evidence, Sylin must have had a rtionship with you that went beyond an ordinary teacher-student one."


    The Four Pirs heresy!


    Could Ashe have single-handedly seduced so many heretics and relied on his personal charm and leadership to establish the Four Pirs, a criminal organization with qualities of organized crime?


    It was possible, but more likely that Ashe had epted gifts and help from others!


    Sylin Dole was likely one of the helpers behind Ashe!


    "I have shown my sincerity, so will you answer my question now? Although I already guessed the answer."


    Igor interrupted Ashe''s thoughts.


    "If you already guessed it...go ahead and ask."


    "How did you use your inner voice to deceive me? Last night in the arena, I foresaw the direction of your attack by listening to your inner voice. I''ve rarely seen this technique fail, because no one can deceive themselves."


    Ashe was slightly surprised. "What, you can hear my inner voice?"


    "Only in the arena, through your surging emotions, can I hear the whispers of your mind. "


    Igor exined in a sentence. Normally he wouldn''t say such revealing words. He even hoped others would be wary and fearful of him.


    But for some reason, he felt that bluffing was useless against Ashe, so he didn''t bother pretending.


    "I didn''t deceive you with my inner voice." Ashe scratched his head. "I just found out now that you can cheat like this. No wonder I couldn''tnd a single punch on you earlier."


    "How could you think ''You''re quite good-looking'' while punching me in the face at the same time?"


    "Saying you''re good-looking and wanting to punch you are not contradictory!"


    Igor had to add: "Generally speaking, I can hear people''s deepest desires, so those superficial thoughts can''t fool me. If you wanted to punch me, I would definitely hear the thought ''I want to punch your face'' instead of hearing thepliment ''You''re quite good-looking''."


    "Oh, I think I understand what you mean."


    Ashe tilted his head.


    "I was probably spacing out at that time."


    "Spacing out?"


    "Yeah, when I space out I just let my mind wander and want to look at some lewd pictures to feast my eyes. So I sincerely thought you looked good."


    "Then why did you suddenly punch me?"


    "Because after spacing out I was raring to go, naturally swiftly entering work mode." Ashe shrugged. "Lewd pictures would only affect how fast I work."


    It sounded reasonable, Igor heard the wrong inner voice because Ashe was spacing out - who would believe that!


    One of the Four Pirs cult leaders, and a genius martial artist who can quickly improve during battle, would space out during a fight?


    Plus earlier when talking about Sylin Dole, Ashe pretended not to know him at all. Igor was more willing to believe Ashe had mastered the technique of perfectly disguising himself!


    "Impossible, even if you were spacing out I should still be able to hear your true inner voice!"


    "Don''t be so sure, maybe your abilities are limited..."


    "Since you say so, let me test it! "


    Igora touched Ashe''s face. "Through the temperature changes on your face I can tell if you''re lying. Say anything true or false!"


    "If your abilities are limited, you certainly can''t distinguish the truth of my words!"


    Ashe blinked.


    "What I''m saying now is false."


    Igor froze.


    Wait, was that sentence true or false? If it was true but he said it was false, then it was false. But if it was false, then the opposite was true...


    The logical loop stirred up Igor''s mind into a mess. He sat nkly in the stands like a broken doll, murmuring "true, false, true false".


    Ashe spread his hands. He had encountered this kind of brain teaser many times during job interviews. It seems the children in this world hadn''t seen these kinds of puzzles before.


    Just then, amotion sounded at the entrance of the Deathmatch Society.


    "Oh, isn''t this our elven lord?"


    "Lord Uhl, this lowly beastman offers you his most precious blessings. Do you need me to lick your shoes?"


    "Make way, don''t dirty the young master''s clothes. You inferior races are not fit toe within five steps of an elf!"


    Although the chips prohibited inmates from malicious words against others, it was only for "malicious words." The chips were not yet smart enough to identify what constituted "innuendo."


    Ashe was quite surprised that this group was working together to ostracize a particr target.


    Not that he had high expectations for the intelligence or morals of death row inmates. But here you couldn''t engage in physical conflicts or verbal bullying. You couldn''t even touch a hair of your opponent. Innuendo was the limit.


    But in the adult world, this level of bullying was like a girlfriend gently punching your chest. Trivial and meaningless. Ordinary people would quickly get tired of it.


    Since they weren''t tired of it, it could only mean...


    "Thank you all for your concern." Valcas bowed deeply with perfect etiquette. "You all speak so nicely. You must have wiped your mouths clean after using the bathroom, right?"


    "Valcas, are you saying we eat shit?"


    "No, I just want topliment those who wipe their mouths clean after eating shit. Why did you jump out? Do you eat shit too?"


    "Va!l!cas!"


    "Oh, your tone is a bit loud. It smells like urine. It seems your diet is quite broad."


    "Va---l---cas---"


    "Hey, why so excited? I''m not cursing you. Speaking of which, I remember a joke. I was taking out the trash and identally hit a dog downstairs. The dog must''ve barked right? So when you hear a dog bark after throwing trash, you must''ve hit it."


    "Valcas---!"


    "I didn''t expect so many people to wipe their mouths after using the bathroom. I used to hear rumors that the prisoners in Shattered Lake eat shit. I''ll be sure to rify for you all that it''s not a rumor."


    Igor couldn''t help butugh.


    "This kind of amazing verbal sparring can only be seen in Shattered Lake Prison."


    Ashe nodded. Hepletely understood why Valcas could suppress more than ten people with his mouth alone. Because you couldn''t curse, once you wanted to curse, the chip would automatically block your throat, keeping all your foulnguage simmering in your stomach. It was like being muted instantly.


    So after shouting Valcas''s name, those people couldn''t speak anymore.


    Then Valcas turned around at their call as if they were the ones provoking him. It was a live demonstration of what it meant to be impotent with rage.


    No wonder these prisoners never got tired of innuendo. With a verbal expert like Valcas, the interactions they got were too intense. Lying in bed tonight, they would probably be thinking about how to retort.


    "Ashe Heath?"


    "Valcas Uhl?"


    Valcas looked at Ashe from afar, his gaunt face regaining its coldness.


    He pointed at the arena. "If there''s no problem, let''s start directly."


    The gaze of the Deathmatch Society focused over. Some expectant, some mocking, some curious, some mad.


    Igor nced at Ashe.


    Now Ashe knew Valcas was rted to Professor Sylin. This deathmatch must have some agenda. If he was Ashe, he would definitely refuse this match. He never participated in fights he wasn''t confident in winning.


    "Swordswoman?"


    Igor was slightly startled. He heard Ashe softly breathe out a name. But no one here was called Swordswoman. Ashe wasn''t looking at anyone either.


    "Feeling a bit lonely..."


    Ashe murmured softly and turned to look at Valcas.


    For some reason, Igor couldn''t help saying, "Valcas is much stronger than me. He''s not an opponent you can defeat with tricks. And the destructive power of swords is greater too. Victory might be decided in one blow."


    "Thank you." Ashe smiled. "I don''t n on using tricks this time."


    "Then what will you use?"


    "My life. I''ll bet my life he can''t kill me in one blow."


    Watching Valcas stride towards the arena, Ashe also stood up.


    "As long as the first blow doesn''t kill me, the second blow will be my chance."

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33


    "Valcas Uhl bets 37 contribution points"


    "VS"


    "Ashe Heath bets 2 contribution points"


    It was very rare for a neer to participate in deathmatches two days in a row after just arriving at the ''shithole'' (the affectionate name given to the prison by death row inmates), let alone for his opponent to be the ''noble'' Valcas. Naturally this attracted countless onlookers.


    Many people who weren''t part of the Deathmatch Society came over to watch. The spectator stands were packed, with arge crowd even standing by the door.


    "They''re both using swords...a duel of swordsmanship? It''s been a long time since I''ve seen a fight between swordsmen. The arena always smells deliciously of blood after a swordsmanship duel..."


    "Human, kill that elf!"


    "What kind of sword grip is that? He''s never learned swordsmanship right? He must have been scared seeing the noble take out a sword and followed suit with a sword of his own!"


    "If you don''t know how to use a sword then don''t use one! Wouldn''t a spear be much easier and more intuitive?"


    "An axe would be even better! One swing of an axe, no matter what weapon, everything turns to mush."


    "You...what nonsense are you spewing! A spear is obviously more suitable for beginners!"


    "I...I''m not spouting nonsense! An axe is the best weapon for newbies!"


    Ashe had one more reason to escape: he would rather listen to others cursing than listen to two burly men who clearly had gruff voices, arguing in the delicate tone of tsundere girls - it was as jarring as winter melon tofu pudding.


    "They''re so noisy."


    "That''s how it is in the shithole, flies buzzing everywhere."


    Valcas looked at the iron sword in his hand, flicking it lightly to elicit a clear, crisp ring.


    "Maggots cannot be butterflies. Even if it''s a real butterfly, in the shithole it''s just a bigger fly."


    Asheughed. "Seems like you have deep feelings about prison life. Interested in publishing a book?"


    Valcas lightly brushed his fingers over the sword''s de, taking up a standard fencing stance.


    "Ashe Heath, I''m sorry."


    The instant the arena barriers rose up around them, Valcas became a blur, his longsword seeming to extend over ten meters as it pierced through the air in an instant!


    Even though Ashe was being cautious, he still couldn''t block with his sword in time. All he could do was barely dodge to the right, and a small piece of flesh on his shoulder was shaved off by Valcas'' sword!


    The intense pain made Ashe involuntarily gasp, but he had no time to catch his breath as Valcas was right upon him!


    ng! ng! ng!


    Ashe did not flee, instead rushing headlong into Valcas'' embrace to bring the fight to the most dangerous distance!


    His rationality had not been drowned by the pain - Valcas was ten centimeters taller than him, with longer limbs. His reach and attack range were too great, Ashe had almost no chance to retaliate at close-mid range. The only way to turn Valcas'' advantage into a disadvantage was to shorten the distance between them to extreme close range, preventing Valcas from swinging his sword.


    "Have you never learned any swordsmanship?"


    Ashe suddenly felt a chill run through his body. With his peripheral vision he saw Valcas turn his wrist, switching from a forehand to a backhand sword grip!


    ng!


    Valcas'' sword blocked Ashe''s thrust. The elf swung his elbow sideways, using his height advantage to smash Ashe''s forehead with his elbow!


    Retreat! Retreat! Retreat!


    The power of the elbow almost knocked Ashe unconscious. At this time, the arcane energy that had been dormant in his mind slowly stirred, releasing a cooling sensation that quickly restored Ashe''s awareness. His body still maintained itsbat instincts and decisively retreated!


    When Ashe''s vision cleared, what greeted him was a sh of cold light!


    Boom!


    Ashe rolled and crawled to his feet, not daring to let his back touch the ground. Looking at the wall shattered by Valcas'' sword strike, his face was filled with lingering fear that soon turned into dread.


    Their swords weren''t sharpened!


    The prison wasn''t crazy enough to give sharpened des to death row inmates to fight with!


    It was already ridiculous that Valcas could cut off a piece of Ashe''s shoulder de with an unsharpened de. Ashe chalked it up to Valcas'' sword being fast enough that his shoulder flesh didn''t have time to react.


    But that was a stone wall!


    Made of stone!


    Stop! This wasn''t swordsmanship!


    It had gone far beyond the realm of swordsmanship!


    "Spirit...spirit?"


    "You look a little surprised?"


    Valcas smiled.


    "Isn''t it only natural for mages to use spirits in battle?"


    "But the prison hasn''t lifted arcane energy restrictions��"


    "Some things cannot be locked away. Even if you bind their hands and feet, they will still grow wings and take flight. The spirits born from knowledge that I haveplete mastery over are still my power, still allowing my every mundane action to be a moment of miracle."


    Ashe let out a deep breath. He could feel his clothes growing heavy, wet by the blood from his shoulder wound. He felt his strength trickling away strand by strand, and along with his blood leaving his body, so too did his vitality.


    Unlike bare-knuckled boxing matches, deathmatches using cold steel swordsmanship did not have many shy rounds of exchange. There was only life and death in a fleeting breath - the strong live, the weak die.


    Yet for some reason, he felt refreshed. The arcane energy in his mind was even livelier, and his shoulder didn''t hurt much anymore.


    "Being hit in a vital area by such an attack, I probably couldn''t be saved right?"


    "I don''t know. I''ve never gone all out against another in a deathmatch before."


    "I''m the first?"


    "And thest."


    Boom!


    With a light flick, Valcas caused the ground as tough as steel to crack and rupture, as if a giant serpent was charging at Ashe from beneath the surface!


    "Elven swordsmanship miracle, sundering mountains and splitting earth!?"


    "He actually used a miracle!"


    "Impossible!"


    An uproar rose from the spectator stands. The death row inmates had their faces practically stered against the invisible barriers, desperate to see more of Valcas'' movements.


    Igor was no exception. He had seen Valcas'' previous deathmatches and already expected he could use spirits.


    But using spirits versus using miracles were twopletely different concepts!


    Every miracle required thebined coordination of multipleposite spirits to cast. But having multipleposite spirits didn''t necessarily mean one could cast miracles, just like ordinary people and handsome men/beauties both have one mouth, one nose, two eyes - but thebined results are one having the face of an angel, the other also having the face of an angel, except its face hit the ground when it was born.


    Miracles were extremely difficult to cast, so much so that ''casting miracles'' itself was part of the miracle.


    One had to know, those who could be mages already had outstanding natural endowments, or they could not possibly advance a technique to the ''arcane'' stage and summon spirits.


    Yet even these proud geniuses of heaven, for most their greatest wish was to master one or two miracles in their lifetime, which was also the average level for mages - below average mages might not even master a single miracle.


    Miracles were so rare, their payoff and difficulty were naturally also positively corrted. Compared to the straightforward effects of spirits, miracles had moreplex, grandiose, hard to dispel effects, and could even produce all kinds of inconceivable effects that transcended factional divisions.


    For example, a swordsmage''s miracle might have healing effects, a watermage''s miracle could evaporate enemies, a gunmage''s miracle would make enemies willingly catch bullets...


    A saying was very popr among mages - ''Spirits are merely extensions of our skills, miracles are the true marvels!''


    Igor had also grasped miracles. Hepletely mastered the few spirits needed for the miracles, theoretically he also had the qualifications to cast miracles.


    But he had never seeded in casting a miracle even once in prison!


    Not even once!


    If rousing spirits in prison was like picking your nose with your foot, difficult but doable with practice;


    Then casting miracles in prison was like putting on makeup with your foot! And it had to look very good, otherwise it wouldn''t count as a miracle!


    Ashe was done for now.


    As Igor watched the heaven and earth rending on the deathmatch arena, he felt sorry for Ashe.


    Valcas clearly intended to kill. Under the crushing weight of the miracle, forget Ashe''s corpse being intact, it would be difficult to even find all his minced meat in the rubble. The prison infirmary''s doctors couldn''t possibly treat such severe injuries. In the end Ashe''s body would inevitably be handled by the cannibals.


    This was the reality of the Blood Moon Kingdom - beneath the tablecloth of ''racial equality'', ''rule ofw'', ''harmonious coexistence'', the carnivores still obeyed the cruelestw of the jungle.


    Once their interests were infringed upon, even hiding in Shattered Lake Prison, they would still be crushed underfoot by their superiors.


    What a pity...he was quite an interesting man...


    After the sounds of the arena''s sundering rang for a good while, someone finally couldn''t sit still.


    "Why isn''t he dead yet?"


    "Even if the miracle''s power was reduced to less than a tenth, it still shouldn''t fail to kill such a weakling who can''t even grip a sword right?"


    That''s right, why wasn''t Ashe dead yet?


    The death row inmates whose entire attention had been seized by the miracle now looked closely at Ashe.


    The deathmatch ring was aplete mess. Faced with Valcas'' miracle that rent the earth as easily as turning over a hand, Ashe dodged left and right like a rat, looking wretched and disheveled. Several times he narrowly avoided being crushed into meat paste.


    Yet he escaped every time! Every time!


    Although his movements looked disorganized and miserable, in the eyes of these death row inmates, they became more and more adept and decisive, without wasting the slightest bit of energy!


    Even Ashe''s sword grew increasingly steady, and could now block Valcas'' shes!


    It was simply, simply just like...


    "Just like yesterday''s deathmatch against the beastman."


    Someone murmured softly.


    As the first victim, Igor naturally felt this very deeply. It was in battle that he watched Ashe grow stronger step by step before his eyes, his skill steadily improving. In just a few short minutes he transformed from a greenhouse flower who didn''t even know how to roll to an animal full ofbat instincts.


    Yet now, a second victim had appeared.


    This beast Ashe had actually, unbelievably, learned swordsmanship in the midst of battle!?


    This was prison, not some genius training center, damn it!


    But many also recalled Ashe''s crime and connected his current genius performance to his background.


    "The Four Pirs..."


    In the dim spectator stands, Langna hugged her boyfriend''s neck tightly as she stared fixedly at the two on the deathmatch ring, a bizarre light shing through her pupils.

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34


    "Why don''t you justmit suicide?"


    When Valcas said this, it didn''t mean that he was confident of winning. On the contrary, it was a signal that he was admitting defeat.


    Suicide was allowed in the deathmatch arena.


    Once youmit suicide, the deathmatch would end and the chip restrictions would be reactivated. Valcas wouldn''t even be able to desecrate the corpse.


    As long as Ashe left himself an intact corpse, the medics could use sorcerer spirits tomunicate with the virtual world and pull his soul back into his body from the virtual world''s fog.


    When Ashe had dodged his first Copse the Mountain, Split the Earth miracle, he had already lost. His subsequent attacks were merely desperate struggles borne of wishful thinking. Even if he could win this deathmatch, he wouldn''t be able toplete his mission ofpletely annihting Ashe Heath.


    Compared to failing his mission, the scene before him made Valcas feel even worse.


    There was nothing more aggravating than watching a genius rise before your eyes. If there was, it would be bing the stepping stone for that genius.


    Even though Valcas was already a middle-aged elf of over a hundred years old, he still felt wronged by this situation - was this a joke? There were so many unlucky people in the world, why did it have to be him?


    To be honest, Valcas was already tilting. That was why he directly revealed the express answer, hoping that Ashe would quickly end this nightmare.


    "Why should Imit suicide? I haven''t lost yet."


    "You think you have a chance at defeating me?" Valcasughed in anger. "Oh right, centuriester, bards will be singing tales of your glorious deeds on the streets. ''Ashe Heath, who had never learned swordsmanship, faced a tactless elf swordsman in battle and miraculously emerged victorious over thetter. This marked the beginning of his unbeaten, illustrious life.''"


    "Ah, merciful Sir Ashe, this lowly Valcas begs you to mention my name in your future autobiography, so that I may stink for all eternity as a clownish viin. Would you be so kind?"


    "So Valcas, when will you be publishing your book?"


    Ashe strenuously raised his left hand to wipe away the blood flowing down his forehead, to prevent it from sticking to his eyshes and obscuring his vision. He still had a smile on his face.


    "I just have a reason I must defeat you, that''s all."


    "What reason?"


    "I want to ask if you were sent by Sylin Dole to kill me, and if my imprisonment was part of some greater conspiracy."


    Valcas flicked his sword lightly to shake off the bloodstains and debris.


    "What does that have to do with you defeating me?"


    "If I don''t beat you, will you answer?"


    "Perhaps I would, perhaps I wouldn''t. Moreover, even if I answered, could you discern the truth?"


    "I asked someone else the same question just now," said Ashe with a deep exhale. "He came to me to resolve a doubt. I said, if I lied, could you tell? He said he really could."


    "So can you?"


    "No, I can''t. But I figured, getting the answer from you after beating you up would lead me closer to the truth than just asking you directly."


    "I haven''t heard such naive reasoning since I left the orphanage."


    Valcas bared his teeth, revealing a hideous side for the first time since he had entered and started fighting - he had maintained an elegant demeanor up till now.


    "But if you don''tmit suicide, you really might die, you know."


    "Then it depends on whether your sword is faster or my sword is faster."


    "To kill you before you canmit suicide? Interesting, I ept this challenge."


    "Ah, that wasn''t really what I meant..."


    Ashe tightened his grip on the sword hilt, every muscle in his body taut.


    "After all, I don''t n on retiring here. If I can''t even get past a stepping stone like you, what right do I have to leave this prison?"


    "Bold nonsense!"


    The already shattered earth split apart once more, invisible swordsmanship traced out fierce contours amidst the debris, like a giant sword thrusting out from the ground toward Ashe!


    Ashe didn''t even blink, exerting all his effort to avoid the sword qi and flying rubble, constantly dragging out the battle to allow his body to absorb as much swordsmanship experience as possible!


    The swordswoman''s swordsmanship experience was no joke. Ashe had started off unable to even see Valcas'' sword clearly. Now he could predict Valcas'' sword route just from the position of his shoulders. He might not be truly proficient with the sword yet, but at least he had mastered how to dodge swords.


    He wasn''t simply seeking death either. He truly had faith that he could defeat Valcas.


    With the enhancement of the swordswoman''s swordsmanship experience, the iprehensible mess that was Copse the Mountain, Split the Earth had begun revealing slight exploitable ws now that Valcas couldn''t go all out!


    It was like the final killer math question of a college entrance exam. Ashe suddenly discovered a wondrous auxiliary line that made him feel he had a chance at conquering this difficult problem!


    Given a little more time, Ashe felt he could even locate defects in the striking surface of Copse the Mountain, Split the Earth, and break through to counterattack Valcas!


    Just a little more time��


    Boom!


    Ashe let out a muffled grunt as arcane energy stirred up a cooling sensation in his mind again, forcing his reason to suppress the intense pain shooting up from his thigh as he barely dodged this Copse the Mountain, Split the Earth!


    He nced at his thigh with the corner of his eye, then didn''t dare look down again.


    "Your growth speed really is praiseworthy, but it''s a pity. You''re tired."


    Valcas couldn''t keep the regret out of his tone. "You''ve been bleeding since the start of the match, and gone through such intensebat. You''ve lost too much blood, to the point your brain is suffering oxygen deprivation and your strength is fading. So you''re getting slower and slower."


    "Even if you can force yourself to keep fighting despite the pain, your body can''t fight any longer. I carved a chunk of flesh from your thigh, on top of all the earlier blood loss. It''s already beyond my expectations that you haven''t gone into shock immediately."


    "Do you know why I''m saying so much to you? Because the longer this drags on, the more strength you''ll bleed away. Your sword can no longer be faster than mine now."


    "Thank you, Ashe. I''m sorry, Ashe."


    Having said this, Valcas lunged forward, swinging his sword. Fierce sword qi once again ruptured the earth��Copse the Mountain, Split the Earth!


    Is this the limit of my capabilities...?


    Ashe sighed inwardly.


    Even before Igor had told him about Valcas, Ashe had already expected the danger of this deathmatch. After all, no grudges or enmity, why would anyone challenge him, a newbie who had only fought one deathmatch?


    When a stranger suddenly makes things difficult for you at work, it''s definitely because of conflicting interests.


    So why did Ashe ept the deathmatch?


    He could have outright rejected it even before entering the arena. No one could have insulted or looked down on him; he had that freedom.


    But Ashe didn''t want to back down.


    Firstly, he needed an opponent to digest the swordsmanship experience shared over by the swordswoman. There was no better ce for getting beat up that was both dangerous yet safe than the deathmatch arena.


    Secondly, you can dodge once but not forever. Even if Ashe rejected this deathmatch, sooner orter other troubles would find him.


    Most importantly, as he himself said, he was trying to break out of this prison. If he couldn''t even get past a mere stepping stone like Valcas, what prison was he even breaking out of? He might as well just lie down and retire!


    But life didn''t have so many miracles, and even if it did, they would be someone else''s miracles...


    Just as Ashe was about to slit his own throat andmit suicide, he suddenly heard a familiar voice from the spectator stands.


    It was the swordswoman.


    "If it hurts, pretend you''re someone else. That way it won''t hurt."


    In that instant, Ashe felt like ice in his mind had melted. Arcane energy was frantically swirling about, but was firmly confined by an invisible cage,pletely unable to affect reality!


    Arcane energy could be sealed away, but knowledge could not be locked up. Even with their hands and feet bound, knowledge would still sprout wings and take flight.


    The previously dormant substitute sorcerer spirit suddenly began jumping and dancing about in Ashe''s consciousness.


    Ashe barely hesitated before choosing to charge at Valcas, brandishing his longsword!


    "It''s over."


    Seeing the ''Ashe'' being swallowed up by the sword qi of Copse the Mountain, Split the Earth, Valcas couldn''t help but feel a tinge of mncholy rise up. As a swordsmanship master, in his hundred-odd years of experiences, he had never seen a more gifted swordsmanship pupil than Ashe.


    If it were another time, another ce, another identity, Valcas felt that even if he had to be the stepping stone... it wouldn''t be so bad...


    There was nothing more aggravating than watching a genius rise before your eyes. And nothing more invigorating than seeing a genius rise from up close.


    Pop.


    Hearing a sound like a bubble popping, Valcas instantly sensed something amiss. Taking a closer look, he discovered the ''Ashe'' had dissipated upon impact with the sword qi, without even leaving behind flesh or blood��


    It was a substitute!


    "It''s over!"


    Valcas tilted his head slightly, only to find that in the blind spot of his vision, the Copse the Mountain, Split the Earth sword qi had stirred up copious amounts of dust and rubble from the ground, enough to conceal someone heavily injured charging forth!


    The moment Valcas'' sword fell to the ground, Ashe''s sword was already buried in the former''s throat.


    The unsharpened sword edge passed right through his throat!


    Ding ding ding!


    "The victor is Ashe Heath!"

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35


    Shattered Lake Prison, medical room.


    "Are you just going to pretend I''m still unconscious if I don''t say anything?"


    Ashe opened his eyes and stared straight at the medic who was fiddling with his face.


    The medic''s uniform had the employee number [222] on it, clearly the same medic asst time.


    "If you don''t want a messed up face then keep your eyes shut!"


    "Sounds good."


    After the medic tinkered for a few more minutes, she finally let go of his face: "Alright, you can get up now. Here, the apple you asked forst time."


    Ashe hurriedly got up and felt his face, breathing a sigh of relief. Next to the bedside table was a te of apple slices cut into rabbit shapes, with toothpicks stuck in them. Ashe picked one up and ate them one after another.


    "Phew, still in one piece, two eyes, one nose, one mouth, I thought I was going to have to make a contribution to species diversity."


    "I performed surgery to treat you, how could you doubt me?"


    The medic tried to look angry with her arms crossed over her chest, but with the crow mask on and her voice distorted by the mask, Ashe was not scared at all. In fact, he even reached out a hand.


    "What do you want?"


    "Didn''t you say if I let you do stic surgery on me, you''d give me money?"


    "Oh." The medic obediently took out her wallet, but she soon realized: "That''s what I said yesterday, but you didn''t agree to it!"


    "But did you end up doing stic surgery on me or not?"


    "stic surgery is veryplicated, not as simple as you imagine��"


    "So you did it?"


    "Just a little bit, really just a tiny minor procedure... How much do you want?"


    "Give me one silver coin."


    The medic was clearly relieved and lowered her head to rummage in her wallet, then looked up and asked: "Can I give a gold coin? I don''t have change."


    Ashe, who had been living off the state''s money the whole time, had no concept of the economic system in this world. He was surprised that silver coins were considered spare change for beggars in this world?


    One dared to give, the other dared to take, Ashe epted the gold coin and immediately felt a surge of excitement in the depths of his consciousness.


    As his palm grew hot, Ashe seemed to see a human child in pajamas patting his bulging belly, falling back and snoring away.


    He looked down at the gold coin and vaguely felt it had shrunk a little. At this rate of consumption, it would probablyst a year.


    So feeding spirits is pretty simple huh.


    Although Ashe would whack something at the slightest excuse, he had a reason for asking for money this time.


    After all, the Swordswoman had told him that spirits needed to be fed with money, and since he had no money, he could only think of ways to fish some spare change from people of lower intelligence.


    Ashe was satisfied as he put the gold coin in his bag, and casually asked: "So what kind of stic surgery did you do on me exactly?"


    "Dr. Drew''s forehead skin stretching and wrinkle reduction technique, to put it simply, removal of forehead wrinkles."


    The medic paused, then slowly straightened up and looked down at Ashe with her crow beak: "I was willing to perform this procedure for you, you should be thanking me on your knees. You should know forehead wrinkles greatly detract from one''s looks, this Dr. Drew technique costs a lot of money to get done on the outside��"


    "What, you actually removed my most handsome and masculine forehead wrinkles?"


    Ashe was furious: "An unscrupulous medic taking advantage of an unconscious patient to disfigure him, robbing him of his most brilliant and beautiful looks. Is there no rule ofw here, is there no reason anymore? This is malpractice, this is seeking wealth by murder!"


    The medic was somehow tricked by Ashe''s counterattack, stunned for a moment before opening her wallet again.


    "How much do you want?"


    "Hey, don''t be like that, I''m not that kind of person." Ashe righteously refused: "I''m not the kind of criminal who would ckmail others to be my ox or horse using their weaknesses."


    The medic thought for a moment.


    "Stay here, let me go find some news reports about you..."


    "The point is!" Ashe hurriedly pulled the medic back: "I just have a few questions to ask."


    "Don''t ask for my name, don''t take off my mask, don''t touch my skin!"


    The medic was startled and quickly pped Ashe''s hand away, crossing her arms to defend herself sternly, finally making Ashe feel the dignity of being a death row inmate.


    But Ashe was also somewhat curious: "Why not?"


    "It''s a rule of Shattered Lake Prison that medics are not allowed tomunicate privately with inmates. Getting caught would get your medical license revoked, and in severe cases you could even be imprisoned!"


    "So in other words... we''ll be cellmates soon?"


    "If you have questions then ask them quickly and leave quickly."


    The medic didn''t seem to care much about this rule. Ashe felt she was looking to take an unpaid long vacation.


    "The elf I dueled with, is he still alive?"


    "His injuries were lighter than yours, he left a long time ago."


    "Lighter injuries?"


    "He just had his throat slit open, what''s thatpared to other injuries, others healed him in a few minutes. I spent over an hour to regrow your flesh��"


    The medic spread her hands, looking sincere.


    Ashe looked at his intact thigh and shoulder, wondering if medical treatment here was charged by the pound.


    The more flesh lost the harder to heal, slitting throats and blowing heads off doesn''t count?


    So butts are considered high-risk organs here? Butts are more important than brains?


    "Any other questions, make it quick."


    "I also wanted to ask, are there ces in the prison for trading spirits, a single man gets a bit lonely, I want to raise some pets..."


    The medic stared at Ashe.


    "I''m going to report you for plotting prison escape."


    "I''m already on death row, what more can you do if you report me, sentence me to death again?"


    "That''s possible, we can revive you after your first death and make you die again."


    "What, you can do that!?"


    "Of course not, that would be a waste of taxpayer money, and also inhumane. Repeat death penalties have been banned for over a hundred years now."


    "So death row inmates from a hundred years ago might have died many times..."


    "Anyway, I won''t answer that question," the medic said with crossed arms. "Death row criminals like you should just obediently be medical materials for us. When you''re no longer useful, you can just obediently die."


    "Your values are unexpectedly upright..."


    "What makes you think my values are not upright?"


    "After all, you chatted with me, a death row criminal, for so long. I thought you were the kind of rebellious child who would be curious about criminals."


    "I-I''m not curious at all. If I were really curious, I could just read the news reports."


    The medic said while packing up the medical equipment. Ashe jumped down from the bed and shook his thighs and shoulders.


    The surgery was very sessful. Apart from the skin on parts of his thigh and shoulder being noticeably lighter by one shade than the surrounding area, there were no major issues.


    "What if I told you I was wrongly used?"


    "Don''t think you can fool me so easily." The medic snorted. "Ever since the memory evidence system was implemented, there have been no more cases of wrongful convictions. The Heresy Court must have discovered your criminal process from your memories before convicting you��"


    "Nope, the Heresy Court didn''t take any memory evidence from me."


    "How is that possible��"


    "You can check the reports, but the Heresy Court really didn''t take any of my memories. I really am wrongly used."


    Ashe was justified and confident. Let''s not mention the criminal was Heath instead of him Ashe, more importantly he didn''t even have Heath''s memories, so he had no psychological burden saying this.


    The medic looked at Ashe suspiciously.


    "You''re not lying to me?"


    "If I lied to you, I wouldn''t get overtime pay for the rest of my life."


    "If you dare lie to me, you''re dead. You better pray you don''t get injured again, or when you end up in my hands, see if I don''t change your race and gender!"


    The medic''s words had a huge impact on Ashe''s young heart - he wanted to see the healthcare industry of the different races in this other world, but didn''t expect the medical technology here had reached the point where even race and gender could be changed!


    Could you still believe it when you see a beauty on the street like this? Is there still trust between people?


    "But even if you say that, I still can''t answer you."


    The medic spread his hands helplessly.


    "Your death row inmates have restricted arcane abilities. The first step in trading spirits is the seller releasing the spirit with arcane energy, and the buyer reactivating the spirit with arcane energy. Without ess to arcane abilities, you can neither release nor reactivate spirits."


    So arcane abilities also function like authentication keys. Ashe increasingly felt that arcane energy was an omnipotent power source. He wouldn''t be surprised to hear it has Bluetooth capabilities someday.


    No wonder the prison doesn''t restrict their spirits. On one hand spirits probably can''t be restrained, on the other hand as long as their arcane abilities are limited, they can''t make any waves.


    Ashe still refused to give up: "Is there no hope at all? No ce like the Deathmatch Society where we can unlock our arcane abilities?"


    After one exploration of the virtual world, Ashe realized finding all the spirits he needed in there would be as hard as finding a needle in the ocean. It wouldn''t be impossible if he had ample time, but the problem was he didn''t have much time left.


    Although Ashe didn''t dislike taking risks, he was willing to stake his hopes on probability, but unwilling to do so without a contingency n. Like howpanies make their employees work overtime with 996 hours, but also buy health insurance for them, so whether the employees suddenly die or not thepany still wins. As an outstanding employee of the year, Ashe naturally grasped this excellent corporate culture, always preparing a backup n.


    If he could find a spirit trading tform, even if all he found in the virtual world was junk, he''d still have a chance to cash out and recoup losses.


    "There is," the medic replied, to Ashe''s surprise. "You don''t know about it?"


    "Why would I know?"


    "Because it''s an experience all death row inmates go through at least once... oh right, you just got here a few days ago, haven''t had the chance yet."


    Ashe immediately realized what she meant.


    "The Blood Moon Tribunal?"

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36


    Sinceing to this world, Ashe had heard the term "Blood Moon Tribunal" more than once.


    At first, he thought it was an execution show.


    Then, he thought it was a live broadcast execution show.


    After that, he thought it was an online guessing game where a lucky viewer is randomly selected to be executed.


    Now, Ashe felt that the Blood Moon Tribunal was probably an unrestricted fighting reality show.


    "Yes, when death row inmates participate in the Blood Moon Tribunal, the prison will remove all your restrictions. At that time, you can use arcane energy to invoke spirits."


    The medic stretched out her hand, and a kindly old granny spirit emerged in her palm.


    "If you''re asking whether there are opportunities for deals in the Blood Moon Tribunal, theoretically there are, but no one can actually do it. I don''t need to exin why, right? You''ve seen the Blood Moon Tribunal before."


    "I haven''t seen it!"


    "Don''t think you can fool me that easily!" The medic nearly roared, "I won''t believe such a stupid lie!"


    The medic was no longer willing to reveal any more information. Ashe''s clumsy lie made her feel that her dignity had been insulted. Lying was one thing, but using a lie that even children wouldn''t fall for, who was he looking down on!


    Ashe was also very wronged, he really hadn''t seen the Blood Moon Tribunal before. But everyone here assumed it wasmon knowledge that needed no introduction.


    Since he couldn''t trick any information out of her, Ashe prepared to go eat. However, the medic stopped him again at this time.


    "Why did you ask about the elf''s condition earlier? Are you worried about him?"


    "It would be too embarrassing to say I''m worried, I''m just a little curious."


    Ashe scratched the tender new flesh on his shoulder, "After all, he''s also the first person I''ve killed. Isn''t it said that murderers always return to the scene of the crime to spectate? My mentality is simr to that."


    "Really? He was actually your first?"


    "The way you phrase it really makes people misunderstand..."


    "But you''re a death row inmate who got to stay in the luxury suite of the Shattered Lake Prison! For you, destroying lives should be as simple as eating and dressing, tormenting souls should be as habitual as breathing, right?"


    "Although I can''t say I''m a good person, I''m wrongly used!"


    "I''ll temporarily believe the first half of that statement."


    The medic looked down at the spirit in her hand, seemingly weighing her words.


    "Alright, I''ll believe this was your first kill. So why do you care about whether that elf lives or dies? Do you hope he won''t make it, or hope he doesn''t die?"


    "Both."


    "Both?" The medic couldn''t help butugh. "You want him to be both dead and alive?"


    "To be honest, my grudge against him hasn''t reached the point where I must see him dead. If possible, I''d rather give him a good beating with a peeled bamboo stick to vent my anger. Also, I have questions to ask him, so I don''t really hope he dies."


    Ashe shrugged, "But if he really did die, I''d probably just sigh before going to bed that life is like the ocean, only those with strong wills can reach the other shore...so even if he died, I wouldn''t care too much."


    "I''m starting to believe this really was your first kill." The medic said, "What you''re saying doesn''t please either side. During the case publicity phase, saying you had a soft heart and gentle hands could get you the concern of human rights groups, saying you eliminated the root of evil could get you the support of extremist groups. Only this ambiguous, indecisive statement would be disliked and hated by all groups."


    "Looks like it won''t be easy out there in the outside world either." Ashe sighed, "But aren''t most people in this world as indecisive as me?"


    The medic was slightly startled, and shrugged, "There are indecisive people, but you need the capital to be indecisive - for example, good looks!"


    The medic took out a photo album and flipped through it in front of Ashe, "Look, these are the popr handsome guy temtes from the past five years. Want to pick one as your new face? I especially rmend face #1, very popr, has 90% simrity with current hot singers, you''ll definitely like this face..."


    "You''re clearly the one who likes this face!"


    "So what if I like it? You get the face, you benefit from it!"


    "Who says so? I won''t be looking at myself all day, I can''t even see my own face most of the time. What''s the use if I be good looking? It''s other people who will be looking at me all day, they benefit while I have to ept their lecherous gazes. Do you think I''d willingly do something so self-sacrificing?"


    What Ashe said made a lot of sense, to the point that even the medic was convinced. Her crow mask drooped down dejectedly, "Alright, you''re right..."


    "But," Ashe''s tone changed, "you were willing to listen to my grievances and chat with me for so long - it''s the only warmth I''ve felt in this cold prison. Since it''s a friend''s request, I can''t refuse..."


    "We''re friends?"


    "If not then I''ll take my leave..."


    "Okay, okay! So you''re willing to let me do the surgery on you?"


    "Actually I''m not that willing..." Ashe revealed a hesitant expression, "I''m still quite fond of my current face, after all these years of looking at it, I have some attachment..."


    "So..."


    "Have to add money."


    "No problem!"


    The medic rxed, "When do we start the surgery? Wait, I''m not too familiar with some techniques, give me these two nights to review... Don''t worry, very safe, my spirits can effectively prevent malignant issues like flesh decay!"


    Ashe pulled at the corner of his mouth, "I, I''m very assured, then I''ll get going first, take your time preparing, no rush!"


    Arcane energy was the universal energy source for mages, and money was society''s universal energy. Although he didn''t see any hope of escape yet, Ashe had to find a way to earn some money in reserve. The death row inmates didn''t need to be said, they were all broke bums living off the state. Therefore, after thinking it over, Ashe felt like relying on his face to make money was the only path left.


    But the price seemed a bit high now, the chances of a botched face were very high. Ashe got a little scared.


    No wonder the medics weren''t allowed to reveal their names. It was probably to prepare for anonymous escapes - after honing their skills through many medical idents in prison, they could just pat their butts and leave. The death row inmates wouldn''t even have anyone toin to if they wanted to curse someone out.


    Ashe arrived at the door and suddenly turned back to look around the treatment room.


    "Speaking of which, I''ve been wanting to ask for a long time - are you being ostracized by your colleagues?"


    "Huh?"


    "Both times I woke up, I only saw you alone. Where are the other medics?" Ashe guessed, "Did they give you the most difficult work then pat their butts and clock out?"


    "No - although it is true you''re the most difficult job."


    "It''s really not? If you''re being singled out and boycotted by colleagues, remember to tell me."


    The medic looked at Ashe and snorted.


    "Why would I tell you?"


    "Aren''t we friends? Friends are people who can gloat at each other''s misfortunes."


    "Get out of here!"


    Ashe waved goodbye, "Then see you next time, Dr. [222]. The apple was very delicious, thanks."


    Silence returned to the treatment room after he left. The medic packed up her toolkit and pushed open the door to the public lounge - the medics'' activity area did not ovep with the death row inmates'' - and she saw a group of medics wearing crow masks waiting outside.


    The medic was so startled she almost thought they hade to interrogate her.


    But when she looked closely, she noticed one person in the group of medics wasn''t wearing a crow mask. Based on the physique and name tag, it was the tall medic [176] who often scolded her. His appearance was that of a blue-scaled fishman, but his eyes were a glistening ruby red.


    Not only was [176] not wearing a mask, his hands were tied behind his back, and there were obvious bruises on his face. Around his neck was a moss green bubble ne.


    The medic knew very well what that was.


    Miracle Vein Bubbles.


    This was the mostmonly used offensive miracle of blood mages,bining entrapment and killing. Targets affected by the vein bubbles would have all their veins linked to the bubbles. Once the bubbles burst, it also meant all the veins in the body rupturing simultaneously, leading to rapid heart failure and death.


    Any mage, even the weakest, had the power to instantly annihte life.


    Being cored with vein bubbles - this was how criminals were treated.


    "What did he do?"


    "He was peeping at Young Miss''s treatment techniques," the medic with tag [201] reported with a bow. Even the voice changer of the crow mask couldn''t conceal his deference.


    "Attempting to steal the research results of the Blood Weeping Institute without permission vites the constitutional principle of ''personal and collective property is sacred and invible''. It is indisputably a crime."

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37


    A trial was taking ce in the hallway between the infirmary and the public lounge.


    The other medical mages looked at the slightly short [222], their eyes behind the crow masks filled withplex emotions.


    None of them doubted or questioned the usation of "spell theft" against [176]. In fact, they found it very reasonable.


    Medical spells were not simply a set of procedures, but a miraculous method of learning.


    Unlikebat mages, medical mages and creation mages did not need PVP. Therefore, they could lower the difficulty of invoking miracles by extending the casting time. Combat mages could not do that - the enemy would smash them while they were chanting.


    So medical and creation mages broke down miracles into many small steps. Combining those steps in sequence formed a miracle.


    These steps were called forms.


    Therefore, learning the forms meant you would inevitably learn the miracles.


    Forms were naturally seen as important intellectual property. A mage who created a new form, no matter how narrow its applicability or unmarketable it was, could earn sizable licensing fees just by allowing other mages to study it.


    That was why whenever Ashe woke up, he found only one medical mage in the infirmary - they did not allow others to observe healing sessions to prevent form theft.


    The medical mage looked at [201]. "You were sent by the teacher?"


    "I''m a research student under your senior sister. She''s my boss."


    [201] chose his words carefully, not revealing any names. "The warden of Shattered Lake Prison is friends with my boss... But my boss instructed me not to bother you normally. If not for this scumbag''s outrageous theft of the Institute''s assets, I wouldn''t have shown up."


    The medical mage asked, "Now that my identity is exposed, do I have to leave here?"


    [201] smiled. "Miss, don''t joke. All whoe to Shattered Lake Prison for the ''Blood Embrace Ceremony'' are affiliated with the institutes. How could we betray you? How dare we?"


    The other medical mages bowed deeply to show their respect.


    They had no choice but to bow. The Blood Moon Kingdom had 36 institutes total. 24 were minor institutes, 8 mid-tier, and 4 major institutes.


    Most of them were just "prospective progeny" from minor institutes. But the young miss before them was a new progeny of the Blood Weeping Institute, one of the four major institutes. Their identities and backgrounds were worlds apart.


    Frankly speaking, even after theypleted the Blood Embrace and left prison, the best oue for them would be to be golden progeny, gaining a 200-year lifespan extension and stopping at the second wing this life.


    But new progeny of the four major institutes were almost all 500-year holy domain progeny, or even 1000-year legendary progeny!


    The third wing Saint Domain was their minimum starting point. The fourth wing Legendary was not unexpected. They might even touch the realm of divinity and be demigod saints above all other creatures of the Blood Moon Kingdom!


    "Miss, may I ask how to deal with this scumbag?" [201] asked.


    The medical mage was silent for a moment, looking at [176].


    "Do you have anything to say?"


    [176] nced up at the medical mage, his huge eyes showing the familiar crimson glow she knew well.


    "How dare you!"


    [201] snorted coldly and popped a venous bubble.


    [176]''s body shuddered, his already pale fish face now white as paper.


    "I object."


    "Object to what?"


    "I object to you bing a new progeny of the Blood Weeping Institute, while I have to struggle in a minor institute."


    [176] gnashed his sharp teeth. "I''m also the pride of the fishmen. I could also be the supreme progeny. But why is there such a huge gap between our resources?"


    "I object. I schemed endlessly just to get a Blood Embrace chance, yet you obtained it easily. I covet the forms you take for granted. Why do you get the best criminal specimens while I only get worthless leftovers..."


    "Most of all, I object to you having such great talent!"


    [176] became more hysterical. "I can''t watch you surpass me... I can''t!"


    "No hint of remorse at all, what scum."


    [201] popped another venous bubble. [176] nearly fainted.


    "No need to listen to his trash talk anymore... Miss, how do you wish to deal with him?"


    [201] paused. "The standard is immediate execution."


    The medical mage stared silently at the almost limp [176], pondering for a long time.


    "He hasn''t made me hate him enough to want him dead, but I also wouldn''t care much if he died."


    "So you mean..."


    "Find a soft rod shaped like a razor m and beat him ck and blue. No healing him. Throw him out. He''s a blue-scaled fishman right? Thresher sharks shouldn''t kill him. Toss him into the sea tonight and let him swim back himself."


    [201] was stunned. "But Miss��"


    "That''s my decision." The medical mage looked at [201]. "If you disagree, do as you see fit. I don''t mind."


    "I didn''t mean that." [201] bowed deeply. "Your will shall be carried out."


    "Then I''ll go rest."


    The medical mage hurried past everyone, as if wanting to escape the stifling atmosphere. But soon, heavy and slow footsteps quickly caught up.


    The medical mage stopped at her room door and looked back at the approaching [201].


    "Anything else?"


    "Since I''ve already disturbed you, I wanted to take this chance to offer some... reminders." [201] chose his words carefully. "Just a few reminders."


    "Go ahead."


    "I noticed you spent a bit too much... unauthorized time with the criminals in the infirmary. Of course, it''s not a problem at all. I guarantee no one will use those rules to offend you. I''m not here to warn you either."


    "If not for wanting to avoid trouble from the human rights and racial advocacy groups, we wouldn''t need to pretend to be medical mages here. Those rules just reduce the chances of trouble, but you need not worry about trouble, Miss."


    [201] stressed his humility with every sentence.


    "I''m just worried you might develop unnecessary attachments to the specimens while ying, dying the Blood Embrace ceremony. If your Embrace schedule is affected, the boss will hold me ountable."


    The medical mage shook her head. "I haven''t forgotten the ceremony, don''t worry."


    She paused. "I''ve already imnted the Embrace seeds in all the criminals I''ve treated. When they die in the tribunals, the seeds will naturally coagte their knowledge and arcane power, transforming it entirely into my source blood."


    The medical mage walked into her room and removed her crow mask, revealing a pair of extremely cruel crimson eyes, gazing at [201] like a predator. It sent chills down his spine.


    "We the sacred bloodline will never grow attached to our food."

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38


    Having arrived at the cafeteria close to 8pm, Ashe naturally wasn''t able to order the limited Lfat delicacies. He randomly grabbed some meaty dishes and sat down to eat.


    "Does the food taste good after a victory?"


    Ashe looked up to see Valcas holding a cup of water as he sat down opposite him.


    "To be honest, these leftovers have gone a bit cold, and the Lfat has been ordered up by you guys..."


    "You can go order something, you won 37 contribution points from beating me, treating yourself a bit isn''t too much is it?"


    "Huh? Order something? Spend contribution points?"


    "You didn''t know? I guess that makes sense since you''ve only been here a couple days." Valcas pointed to the menu board next to the cafeteria, "You can order meals anytime, not restricted by what the cafeteria is serving that day. If it''s not free activity time, they''ll even deliver the food to your room - as long as you spend contribution points."


    Only then did Ashe realize that menu board was an ordering menu. He had thought it was just a facade by the cafeteria management - Look leader, we offer so many dishes here! We definitely aren''t skimping on prisoner rations!


    The ordering menu suddenly looked quite affordable, any 3 dishes added up to only 1 contribution point. For example ''Seafood Lfat'' + ''Cream Chicken Pasta'' + ''Fog Spinach Omelette'' these 3 popr dishes also only needed 1 contribution point, enough to eat a good meal.


    However each death row inmate only had 50 initial contribution points, not only was 10 points deducted automatically each month, it was also the required stake to apply for a deathmatch. The lower the contribution points, the earlier the trial sequence, making it easier to be chosen for the reality show ''Blood Moon Tribunal''.


    Thus contribution points represented not just a currency in prison, but a prisoner''s allotment of life. Spending contribution points was no different from chronic suicide...perhaps there was a difference, chronic suicide you don''t know when you''ll die, spending contribution points you can watch as your allotment of life keeps decreasing.


    "Although there''s not much entertainment in prison, if you want to spend contribution points, there are definitely ways to spend it." Valcas said, "Hairstyling, custom prison garb, purchasing specific toiletries...you can even spend contribution points to exchange for a better dorm room, 3 bedrooms 2 living rooms with a window, 1 contribution point per day."


    "1 contribution point per day? That''s crazy, who would live there?"


    "There are, ''Diamond'' Taig has lived in that VIP suite for years. He has so many contribution points he can''t spend them all, there''s always some new fool giving him points. If each contribution point is valued at 1 gold coin, prison Taig probably has more money than outside Taig."


    Ashe raised his eyebrows, "So that means...we prisoners are only valued at 50 gold coins in the prison assessment system?"


    "You think it''s low?"


    "Is it a lot?"


    "Most average people without higher education can''t earn 50 gold coins in their lifetime, even some mediocre mages can''t earn that much. If the annual sry is 1 gold coin, it''s enough to live quite well in Caimon City."


    Only then did Ashe understand the true value of that gold coin in his arms, and realized how sinister this prison was - 3 meat dishes cost a person''s annual sry! Were the Lfats here made by PhD graduates?!


    "Suddenly I feel the leftovers are quite fragrant."


    Valcas humphed, and just kept watching Ashe quietly.


    After eating for a while, Ashe finally couldn''t stand it and said, "Mr. Elf, I''m the type that can''t pee when people are watching."


    "Shhh~ Shhh~"


    "I was just making an analogy, you don''t have to whistle along!"


    "I thought kids these days liked to pee while eating." Valcasughed then immediately resumed his cold expression, "What I say next is a monologue, most of it just nonsensical rambling, best pretend you didn''t hear any of it if you catch something."


    Ashe was slightly startled.


    "In addition to being the chair of the Caimon Elven Race Rights Association, Caimon Council Member, university professor, Sylin Dole has another hidden identity - one of the behind-the-scenes supporters of the Woodpecker Gang. On the surface he opposes the Sacred Bloodline council members, Moonshadow council members for the rights of other races, but he has already conducted many shady deals with the Blood Moon council members. The Woodpecker Gang is his ck glove, current Caimon Mayor Fernand Snow was also able to get to his position with his help."


    "The Four Pirs heretical cult has been dormant for many years, almost disappearing, other than one rumor without evidence - that important ritual texts rted to the Four Pirs cult were unearthed during an eastern ruins excavation 8 years ago. That same year, the eastern ruins suffered a spatial storm and most of the archaeological finds were lost."


    "Among the excavation team leading that eastern ruins dig, Professor Sylin Dole was one of the main consultant guides. "


    "Sylin is a very patient elf, at least I''ve never seen a creature who can surpass him in enduring silently. If he wants someone dead, it means that person has critical intelligence that would cause him tremendous loss if leaked."


    Valcas took a sip of water to wet his throat, and nced at Ashe.


    "In theory most inmates'' memories have been scanned upon imprisonment, any intelligence surely uncovered...unless someone''s memories weren''t scanned."


    So that was it.


    Although Ashe still didn''t know his connection with Professor Sylin, hepletely understood why Sylin wanted to kill him at all costs - he thought Ashe held secrets not yet leaked!


    Because of the Four Pirs cult, the Heresy Court didn''t dare scan Ashe''s memories, so Ashe Heath became the only inmate still holding secrets!


    This was Sylin''s good fortune, because Heath didn''t leak his intelligence;


    This was also Sylin''s misfortune, because Heath could report him anytime!


    To be fair, if Ashe really knew such secrets, he would definitely report to the Heresy Court immediately.


    Not because he was self-sacrificing, only that he was quite curious about Sylin, and wanted to be intimate prison buddies. If there was a chance to passionately collide on the deathmatch stage, that would be even better.


    But the problem was - Ashe truly didn''t know any of Sylin''s secrets!


    He didn''t absorb even a drop of original Heath''s memories!


    How vexing, Ashe also wanted to use Heath''s memories to help the Heresy Court bring viins to justice.


    After all there were so many criminals, why was only I caught!?


    Unfortunately he didn''t know anything.


    Even more aggravating was others fearing he would leak secrets, so they schemed to get rid of him!


    Yet he didn''t know anything!


    This feeling was like being wrongly used by a teacher of stealing a ssmate''s stationery when he didn''t actually steal anything as a kid - so stifling.


    "Hey you haven''t left yet? Didn''t hear my monologue did you?" Valcas stood up and said, "We''ll stop here today, I''ll look for you to brainstorm when I have time."


    "Really?"


    "Haha joking, I don''t have time and you don''t have a brain."


    "Wait Valcas." Ashe called out to him, "Why are you helping me?"


    Although Ashe felt Valcas would give him some intel after losing to him, this method of gifting waspletely different from what Ashe imagined - he thought Valcas would leave with a vicious line, like ''I''m the weakest of the Four Dark Lords, beating me is useless, our people wille for you soon''.


    Ashe didn''t expect Valcas to defect so cleanly, seems like his beatings came with moral correction?


    "I''m not helping you."


    Valcas shook his head.


    "I just want to make trouble for that bastard Sylin."


    Hurting others without helping oneself was indeed a very reasonable motive. Ashe pressed on while the iron was hot, "Do you know if there are channels to trade spirits in prison? If I can get some swordmage spirits, I''ll have a chance to make big trouble for Sylin��"


    "None of my damn business."


    Ashe was rendered speechless, and decided to try an empathetic approach: "Oh right Valcas, you weren''t able to kill me this time and even lost to me, will you get into any trouble��"


    "None of your damn business."


    "At least tell me what Sylin will do to deal with me next?"


    Valcas nced at him and left with onest line.


    "When we meet again next time, you''ll know Sylin''s methods."


    Ashe felt Valcas ending up in prison was definitely rted to his foul mouth and cryptic personality.


    But at least he could confirm one thing now - the mastermind behind all this was definitely Ashe''s former university professor, elven schr Sylin Dole!


    After eating, Ashe didn''t linger in the prison but hurried back to his dorm, immediately calling out upon entering.


    "Swordswoman? Are you here?"


    "Here, but also notpletely here."


    The swordswoman sat on the bed crossing her legs, the deep ck stockings outlined her charming curves as she rested her chin on her palm, looking askance at Ashe.


    "Something the matter?"


    "It was you who reminded me during the deathmatch earlier right?"


    Ashe held out his palm, the ''Body Double'' spirit lounging about rubbing its belly appearing.


    "The chip is still restricting my arcane energy output, but why was I able to summon the Body Double spirit?"


    "Isn''t it obvious - youprehended the knowledge of the Body Double spirit, and with the right conditions, you directly resonated with the spirit, automatically triggering its effects to influence reality. Other death row inmates who want to activate spirits in prison use this method as well."


    Although Ashe had heard it many times, he still couldn''t help but feel shocked - mature spirits could really cast spells by themselves!


    "But how did Iprehend the ''Body Double'' spirit? I didn''t learn any knowledge about it at all!" Ashe still didn''t understand.


    "You learned it andprehended it."


    Ashe was startled, suddenly recalling the swordswoman''s reminder.


    "Was it because of this line? ''If it hurts, pretend you''re someone else, then it won''t hurt anymore''?"


    "That''s right." The swordswoman nodded, "When you understood those words, you naturally understood this spirit. Fundamentally, a spirit is a collection of knowledge. Once you obtain a spirit, even if you don''t actively study it, the spirit''s knowledge will actively pursue you."


    "That simple?"


    "Not simple at all." The swordswoman shook her head, "Seeing knowledge andprehending knowledge are two different things...If not for being in extreme danger earlier, covered in wounds, your consciousness nearing dispersal, you wouldn''t have been able to resonate with the Body Double spirit. Just learning is not enough, empathy is a prerequisite toprehending spirits."


    Ashe looked at the Body Double spirit in his palm, trying to delve deeper into the spirit with his consciousness.


    It was slightly better thanst time, Ashe could understand the information flow the spirit fed back, but still couldn''t make sense of its structure. If the spirit was a dish,st time Ashe didn''t even have the sense of taste to sample the spirit''s vor; this time Ashe could taste the spirit''s vor, but didn''t know how it was prepared.


    "Being able toprehend the spirit is already your limit. Unless it''s your natal spirit personally summoned, you can never find its hidden Door of Truth."


    The swordswoman saw through his intentions with a nce: "Only a spirit born from your own knowledge, can you find its Door of Truth. Spirits obtained through other means, no matter how deeply youprehend them, will never truly be yours."


    "Truth demands pure perfection, allowing not the slightest w."


    Truth really was quite strict.


    Ashe withdrew the spirit and looked to the swordswoman again.


    "Where did you disappear to for so long?"

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39


    "Who do you think I am? An on-call escort whoes and goes at your beck and call?"


    The swordswoman crossed her arms, thrust out her chest, and lifted her chin: "Why should I have to report to you about where I go? Should I submit an application before I even use the bathroom?"


    "I wouldn''t mind that actually, but do you even need to use the bathroom? Do you prefer squatting or sitting toilets?"


    "I''m not talking about the bathroom!"


    The swordswoman suddenly stood up and approached Ashe, causing him to retreat until his back was against the wall. She stared at him fiercely, jabbing her finger into his corbone.


    "Although you previously promised to respect me, it seems you don''t really think that way. You still see me as just a stream of data, an illusion born because of you, a paper doll who should rightfully serve you... Even after we''ve talked so much, even after we explored the virtual world together, you still haven''t changed your...condescending view."


    Ashe did not refute, because he could not refute.


    The swordswoman was not asking, she was stating facts.


    With her ability to hear his thoughts, any lies were meaningless.


    "I can''t change how you think. I just need you to remember one thing - I''m also a person."


    The swordswoman enunciated clearly: "I have my own life, my own hobbies, my own pursuits, my own world to live in... You''re not my everything, just an ident in my life. Even without you, I can live perfectly fine in ces you don''t know about. Understand?"


    "Be grateful if I help you. Don''tin if I don''t help you. Understand?"


    "Understood, thank you Swordswoman Mom for all your help!"


    "Don''t call me that!" The swordswoman jabbed Ashe''s forehead fiercely. "What woman wants to be called Mom at such a young age!"


    "Who said so? I don''t mind you calling me Dad..."


    Sensing the swordswoman about to jab her finger at him again, Ashe quickly changed the topic: "Then Swordswoman, can you tell me if anything interesting happened to you today?"


    The swordswoman sat back down on the bed, gazing at the ss of water on the table, lost in thought for a long time.


    Just as Ashe thought she didn''t want to reveal her whereabouts to a smelly man like him, she spoke again.


    "This morning I took out my Torrent spirit in front of the Meditation Hall to show off a bit. By the afternoon, the whole school knew I got a Torrent spirit from the virtual world. Heh, even my cocky roommate was licking up to me, asking if I wanted to sell the Torrent spirit..."


    "So you had a great day today right?"


    "Boring!" She rolled her eyes at him. "What''s so happy about such superficial vanity? Why care what strangers praise or envy? Only preteen girls would feel smug about that."


    But I remember you''re a preteen girl... Ashe had just formed this thought when the swordswoman red sharply at him.


    Damnit, so I can''t even say she''s young? The swordswoman is so strict!


    "The air in a single man''s bedroom is so turbid and smelly, I''m leaving."


    "You apologize to the air purifier hanging from the ceiling this instant! Right now! Immediately!" Ashe was nearly roaring. "And I haven''t done anything the past few days. At night I was exploring the virtual world with you, where''s this supposed turbid smelly airing from!"


    "Maybe it''s from your breathing, or your heartbeat is too strong."


    Ashe decided not to bother arguing with her. "So continuing our virtual world explorations tonight?"


    "Of course." The swordswoman paused. "Unless there are special circumstances, I won''t normally appear. If you have anything to discuss with me, save it for the virtual world. Our nights in the virtual world are our shared leisure time."


    Ashe naturally had no objections, or rather, he had already vaguely expected the swordswoman would not continue providing 24/7 personal service after reaffirming her human rights and freedom earlier.


    "Then if something happens and I urgently need to find you, will you appear?"


    "Didn''t I already say, you''re not my everything."


    Hearing this, Ashe nodded to show he understood and turned his head away to look elsewhere.


    "But you''re an ident in my life," the swordswoman nced at him. "If you really do have an ident, I''ll appear as soon as I can - and then mock you when I get to the scene."


    "So don''t expect me to show up to chat with you when you''re feeling lonely. I don''t provide that service."


    "I''m a mature member of society, I won''t feel lonely at all."


    Ashe patted his chest as he refuted, though the delight in his eyes was hard to conceal.


    Hmph, howughable...


    At this time, the Apocalypse Observer is actually still afraid of loneliness, afraid of the unfamiliar prison, and even clinging to me like a lifeline, panicking if he doesn''t see me for a day...


    Behaving like a child...


    It seems he wasn''t born so...


    But fortunately his mind isn''t working well right now. I had thought it would be difficult to keep secrets from him...


    Various thoughts shed through the swordswoman''s mind before she disappeared from the bedroom, returning to where she should be.


    Star Domain, Training Hall.


    "Sonia, can you still walk?"


    Ingrid looked at Sonia who was practically melted into the ground, having used up all her strength but still unable to levitate the other girl - she herself was also exhausted from the increased training intensity.


    "No, my legs have no strength left. Rest first, rest first..."


    The two girls plopped down on the grass at the roadside, leaning on their sword bags as they panted heavily.


    "Ah-choo!"


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Bra''s soaked through." Sonia pulled at her cor to cool down. "Feels a bit cold when the wind blows..."


    "Hehe, I rmend Fista brand sports bras, quick drying and breathable."


    "Really? Let me check them out."


    After discussing bra purchases for a while, Ingrid let out a puff of hot air and twisted open her water bottle, only to find it already empty. She turned to look at Sonia, "Where''s your water bottle?"


    "What water bottle?"


    "You came to train without a water bottle?"


    "I...I just brought my sword bag and came over. I forgot I needed to bring water too."


    Reminded by Ingrid, Sonia also felt her throat gulp thirstily, her lips dry. "Do you have any water left?"


    "None! ......Maybe one or two drops?"


    Ingrid lifted her head, waiting a few seconds before another drop fell from the bottle. She licked her lips, murmuring in wonder, "Howe the water''s so sweet?"


    "Let me try some too!"


    Sonia also tipped the bottle over her mouth to catch a drop, letting out a melodious sigh, "This isn''t water at all, it''s practically a priceless vintage even finer than the pce banquets!"


    "You''ve drunk the pce banquet wines?"


    "Never drank them, but doesn''t saying this make me sound amazing?"


    "I have!" Ingrid giggled. "My father has a bottle he keeps in the basement that he never opens. He said it was a fine wine presented to him by Her Majesty when he attended a pce banquet... When I was little I was so curious I secretly went to the basement and drank a mouthful. And to avoid my father noticing, I added water back into the bottle. But I still got caught, it was the worst beating from my father in my childhood."


    "How did you get caught?"


    "My footprints were too small. As soon as my father entered the basement, he saw my little footprints leading all the way to where the wine bottle was ced."


    "How did it taste?"


    "I forgot, but it was probably very awful. Otherwise I wouldn''t have added water to the bottle, I would''ve turned the entire bottle into water instead."


    "Hahaha, you were such a naughty kid."


    "Of course, when I was little I could beat all the boys in town." Ingrid lifted her chin proudly, stroking her sword bag. "It''s still the same now."


    Above was the glittering starry sky, below the green grass they sat on. Students passed to and from the training grounds before them, yet the two girls simply sat here with knees folded, resting and chatting happily, uncaring of the sweat rolling down their cheeks and dripping into the dirt.


    The rumbling of an engine sounded in the distance as a silver luxury sedan slowly cruised down the campus driveway, stopping before the two of them.


    "Want a ride?" Felix poked his head out and calmly asked, "It''s no trouble for me."


    Ingrid shook her head. "No need, walking back can help alleviate muscle fatigue, and we''re drenched in sweat, don''t want to dirty your car."


    "Sylvia didn''te pick you up tonight?" Sonia asked instead.


    "We broke up."


    "Oh~" The two didn''t know how to react, simply oh-ing in response.


    Felix said nothing more, simply driving off directly.


    Watching as the silver sedan gradually disappeared, Ingrid patted her bottom and stood up. "Rested enough? Let''s head back, the water pressure gets low after 10pm so we won''t have water to shower if we''re back toote."


    "You go back first, I''ll go straight to the Meditation Hall."


    Ingrid wasn''t too surprised. "Avoiding Iris? You still haven''t decided what to do with the Torrent spirit?"


    "Yeah." Sonia also sighed. "Not that I haven''t decided...I just want an actual sword spirit more."


    Ever since news that Sonia had a Torrent spirit spread, her roommate Iris immediately came to ask if she could buy it. Iris didn''t intend to take advantage of her, even offering 20% above market price. Sonia couldn''t sell for that price on the school trading tform, so selling to Iris meant no loss at all.


    The Sonia from before would have eagerly sold it right away, then secretlyughed under her nket at night as she imagined how to use the ''huge sum'' of money to make more money.


    But under Professor Trotzam''s guidance, Sonia''s horizons had expanded. She deeply realized spirits were the fundamental basis of a sorcerer''s strength, money only secondary.


    Therefore, she hoped more for a ''spirit exchange'', using the Torrent spirit to exchange for a sword spirit she wanted, increasing her own strength to better explore the virtual world.


    However, spirit exchanges weren''t always avable. Common spirits were one thing, but a rare spirit like Torrent would naturally need to exchange for an equally rare sword spirit. Even if Professor Trotzam said he would help Sonia look, it would still take time to find a buyer.


    On one hand there was Iris who could pay arge sum of money anytime, on the other an as yet unseen seller, leaving Sonia a bit conflicted as she decided to hide for two days to carefully consider her options.


    "You actually have a third path, use it yourself."


    Sonia turned her head to find the Observer sitting next to her.


    She suppressed the slight joy rising in her heart, casually asking in her mind, "When did youe back?"


    "When you were discussing bras."


    "..."


    "Don''t buy Fista brand bras, Fista specializes in small to medium sizes. With your proportions, I rmend Dorslin, very good shaping effect."


    "Alright, I''m not going to discuss this topic with you."

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40


    After parting with Ingritt, Sonya went to the meditation building by herself and thought: "You said earlier that I can use the Torrent spirit myself?"


    "Yes," the Observer walked alongside her. "You have some foundation in water-type arcane arts, don''t you? I remember one of the miracles swordsmanship cores is Vibration Sword and Torrent."


    "You know the specific tricks of that miracle!?"


    Sonya was instantly excited. If she could grasp a miracle in swordsmanship, it would not only earn Professor Trotzam''s appreciation, but also qualify her to participate in Cailleach''s intercollegiatepetition, directly using her own ability to break into high society -


    "I don''t know."


    "..."


    "But since you have these two spirits, you can invent that miracle yourself." The Observer spoke casually. "The wonder of sorcerers is that they canbine any number of spirits to form incredible dazzling miracles, isn''t it?"


    "I also asked Professor Trotzam, but even for him, it would take several months of work to create a water sword miracle based on Vibration Sword and Torrent..."


    "How can hepare with you? You''re the swordswoman I found."


    Sonya wrinkled her nose. She wasn''t a three-year-old child to believe such effortless praise - If you really think so highly of me, just tell me the miracle form directly!


    I''ll remember your great kindness, and surely I''ll repay you when I make it big!


    Even if you die before I make it big, I''ll definitely prepare a grand funeral for you!


    Her eyes rolled as she tried her best to control her psychological fluctuations, and continued to ask: "So you mean you took the Substitute spirit so you could give me the Torrent spirit? You''re so nice to me~"


    The Observer shuddered and took a step aside, seeming somewhat hesitant as he gazed at Sonya with his dim face.


    Sonya maintained her sweet smile, exerting all her mental effort to control her thoughts and prevent the Observer from listening to her true feelings.


    "...Enough with the probing. I took the Substitute spirit because I needed it."


    "As someone of your level, you need a Rank 1 spirit too?"


    "Firstly, there are no weak spirits, only weak sorcerers - this should be a lesson every sorcerer textbook must teach."


    The Observer said, "Secondly, I''m just a weakling now, even weaker than you, and I''m also in danger with my main body imprisoned. I''m not only very weak, but I''ve also lost some memories while awake, so I have to learn the basics of sorcerers through you."


    So he was very strong before...


    And he lost his memories... Was it from a miracle that erases memories?


    No wonder he asked so many stupid questions - turns out he really is stupid!


    But even Sonya, who didn''t read much fantasy fiction, instantly pictured all kinds of ''return of the mighty'' and ''fall of a legendary sorcerer'' plots, and couldn''t help but feel moved -


    Isn''t this exactly the kind of hidden gem she had been looking for!?


    Although the current situation wasn''t great, as long as she gave him time to grow, he would definitely be a supreme powerhouse, a towering tree that ruled a region, enjoying endless glory and wealth!


    Unlike ordinary hidden gems which still relied on some probability, the Observer was on the path to regaining his peak. As long as there was sufficient time, his sess was virtually guaranteed!


    Sonya had never liked Felix, precisely because she hoped to find a hidden gem herself. After all, it wasn''t easy to take advantage of nobles. Even if a noble fop like Felix was an idiot, his parents weren''t idiots. If she wanted to rely on the power of a top nobility family, she would have to give up arge piece of flesh - real flesh. Unless she gave birth to a child, she couldn''t hope to get away.


    If she married a hidden gem, not only could Sonya enjoy glory and wealth, she could also maintain her autonomy without losing any say in family matters.


    Although the Observer was her boss, finding a marriage partner was based on the same logic as finding a boss.


    Rather than joining arge organization in the future and bing a cog in the machine, it would be better to be an elder who started a business with a promising boss!


    "Observer, are you in any danger? Do you need my help? Just say the word! To protect your safety, I will spare no effort!"


    "...When we explore the virtual worldter, if wee across spirits needed for the sh Me miracle, give them to me."


    "sh Me miracle?"


    "Oh right, I haven''t told you yet. I''m currently imprisoned in a certain prison, so I need the sh Me miracle to escape."


    After the Observer described the sh Me miracle in detail, Sonya was dumbfounded - if she remembered correctly, this was a miracle not yet registered in the Star Chart of Miracles!


    A miracle that had never appeared in the Stars'' domains!


    And it was an extremely practical sword miracle that even Silver-rank sorcerers could use for self-healing!


    Although Sonya couldn''t sell this miracle - she had no way to exin the source, andcked the ability to create miracles (she couldn''t even gather the spirits) - any attempt to sell it would be identified by the Sorcerer Association as theft of another''s patent. But if she could get the rights to sell knowledge of this miracle, the money earned would be enough to instantly make Sonya a wealthy woman in Cailleach!


    So Sonya was still amoner at heart. Being discovered to have talent in swordsmanship by the Observer, being taken by him to adventure in the virtual world, only made her feel ''grateful''.


    However, when the Observer gave her knowledge of a miracle, one she currently couldn''t use or sell, it made Sonya extremely excited. This was because thetter had greater value in the Stars'' domains.


    This demonstrated that a future prospect couldn''t rece present-day ie, and spiritual satisfaction couldn''t substitute material satisfaction.


    "This, this is a sword miracle you invented?"


    "No."


    The Observer nced at Sonya.


    "This is a sword miracle I stole from an enemy."


    Sonya blinked. "Then will I get in trouble using this miracle?"


    "You can rest assured and use it boldly. My enemy will definitely not appear before you."


    He paused. "Definitely not."


    So the original inventor was already dead?


    Sonya was thrilled inside. She thought that after fully awakening to Silver Wings, and gathering the spirits for the sh Me miracle, she could im ownership of this miracle and sell knowledge of it! A small favor like this, someone of the Observer''s stature surely wouldn''t care, right?


    "Great, I''ll do my best to find the spirits for the sh Me miracle during our virtual world adventures. Oh right, there''s also something I wanted to discuss with you..."


    "We can talk more inside the virtual world. There''s ample time in there, you can discuss anything you want. Oh right, you don''t like that I can hear your thoughts, right? I''ve decided to amodate your wishes."


    Sonya was overjoyed. "Are you going to stop monitoring my mind?"


    "No, I''ve decided to stop looking for you normally." The Observer shrugged. "From now on, you won''t have to call out ''Observer'' in your mind before going to the toilet or taking a shower. I''m not toilet paper or a towel."


    "How do you know I call out your name in my mind before going to the toilet or showering?"


    "That''s not important!"


    The Observer waved his hand. "If you have anything in the future, save it to tell me in the virtual world. I won''t appear in your normal life anymore."


    "If... if you don''t listen to my thoughts, I still wee you. Even if you insist on listening to my thoughts, I guess I''m almost used to it now..."


    Sonya''s response was hesitant and ambiguous. Undoubtedly she detested the Observer''s invasion of her privacy, but because of that, she could also reveal her true nature before the Observer, without any need or way to put on a mask.


    This was also why Sonya had been so happy earlier when she suspected the Observer was a split personality.


    A wise existence who knew everything about her yet couldn''t impact her social rtions - wasn''t that the ideal confidant?


    "You make it sound like your daily life is so exciting that I''m clinging on desperately to see it." The Observer held his arms. "I have my own matters to handle, no time to watch a college student''s campus romance everyday."


    "In short, the few hours in the virtual world are our time tomunicate. At other times, I won''t disturb you, and won''t appear even if you call me."


    "What if I have something really urgent that I need to find you for?"


    "Then calling me would be useless too." The Observer spread his hands helplessly. "The me who appears before you is just an illusion, I can''t even pick up a single hair, I''m unable to provide any substantial assistance. If you look for me, aside from mocking you, there''s nothing else I can do."


    "Mocking is fine too." Sonya was adamant. "So you''ll appear when I call out for you?"


    "That''s truly a hard request to refuse. But I am rather curious - you need me so much, is it because I''m fulfilling the fatherly love youcked as a child?"


    "Then do you want me to call you Observer Daddy?"


    "Please don''t, just calling me Observer is fine. Otherwise I''d have nightmares."


    As they spoke, the two arrived at an individual meditation room. Sonya sat cross-legged, nced at the Observer beside her, took out the Vibration Sword spirit, sought the Gate of Truth, and entered the virtual world.


    Watching Sonya close her eyes as her consciousness connected with the distant virtual world, the Observer suddenly sighed.


    How frightening...


    In just two days, she actually found a way to conceal her thoughts and even deceive me...


    She really lives up to being a witch bearing the title ''Death Maniac''...


    Is it good or bad to let her discover her potential so early with such talent and gift...


    But that''s no longer something I should worry about.


    The Observer shrugged and his figure disappeared from the meditation room.

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41


    In the virtual world, on a small ind in the sea of knowledge, the battle wasing to an end.


    "The difference between swordsmanship and ughter lies in precision."


    Professor Trotzam''s teachings seemed to echo in her ears. Sonya tried to maintain steady breathing to prevent her motions from distorting. She quietly held the wooden sword, channeling arcane energy until boiling, and thrust out with all her might!


    The wooden sword pierced Ashe''s back, stabbing through his chest!


    "Ugh!"


    Ashe let out a muffled grunt, the intense pain nearly causing him to lose his grip. The virtual world did not shield sorcerers from pain; in fact, due to the direct contact of souls, the pain was generally 10-20% more intense than in reality. Therefore, it was not impossible for a sorcerer to die from excessive virtual pain.


    The tip of the wooden sword piercing Ashe''s body glowed with a faint purple aura, then��


    "Inner Vibration Sword!"


    Following Sonya''s soft cry, the vibration sword aura on the wooden sword exploded!


    The green-skinned beastman that Ashe held by the shoulders, impaled in the waist by Sonya''s wooden sword, let out a hysterical roar. Its burly, muscr body burst open like a popped balloon, its lower half blown apartpletely.


    Yet the ferocity in its eyes only grew more intense, its hands clenched tightly around Ashe''s throat, nearly wringing his neck out like a wet towel��


    Sonya decisively pulled out her sword and swung it down, effortlessly slicing through the beastman''s neck that was nearly impervious earlier. As the beastman''s head flew, Ashe plopped down on the ground, gasping heavily for air.


    "Are you okay?"


    "Other than briefly recalling my short life, hearing what sounded like loved ones calling out, nothing much happened."


    Ashe coughed twice, ncing down at where Sonya''s sword had pierced. Of course now his coat was undamaged, the wound healing instantly.


    He had known from the first battle that any injuries suffered in the virtual world were illusory. As long as he didn''t die on the spot, a sorcerer could recover almost instantly.


    Of course, every miracle came with a price. Ashe saw his own hand''s opacity decrease noticeably, meaning his soul energy had depleted greatly.


    If he suffered such serious trauma again, he''d probably have to give up a life in the virtual world.


    He looked at the dissipating beastman head, still feeling some lingering fear.


    This green-skinned beastman was the strongest foe they had encountered in the virtual world. If Ashe hadn''t sacrificed himself as a taunt follower and Sonya seized the chance to attack, the victor would still be uncertain now.


    To be honest, in terms ofbat power, this green beastman was not much different from the musketeers they had faced. Both were low-level sorcerers with very shallowbat patterns.


    And that was exactly why "Virtual World Exploration" had deemed it an adventure target ''worth visiting'', giving Ashe a false impression.


    Then the virtual world immediately taught Ashe a lesson: everything in the virtual world carried risks, the sea of knowledge ran deep, and he needed to tread carefully, my child.


    Even low-level sorcerers could have massive gaps between them, possibly even greater than racial differences.


    While Ashe and Sonya could easily handle the musketeers, the green beastman had them badly beaten because it specialized in the masochist school - the natural counter to their own! Its entire green skin exuded the color of trees, hard as armor.


    Not just Ashe, even Sonya could only scratch it, unable to truly wound it.


    More importantly, the beastman had abundantbat experience and seemed to have learned boxing too. Whenever Sonya tried to inflict serious damage with Vibration Sword, it either grappled with Ashe or charged at Sonya directly, not giving her a chance to act decisively.


    As the battle dragged on, the two exhausted their resources quickly while the beastman only grew more vigorous. Sensing trouble, they briefly discussed and decided to have Ashe actively engage it to obscure its vision and create openings for Sonya.


    The tactics seeded beautifully. The beastman died, Sonya''s skills improved, and Ashe gained a rare glimpse of his life shing before his eyes. Everyone obtained growth.


    After a battle of course came the time to check for spoils. The beastman left two wolf fang ornaments, each containing a spirit:


    Oak Skin


    One Wing Spirit


    Restriction: The sorcerer must possess skin tissue that wraps muscles.


    Basic Effect: Transforms skin into bark-like material. When in contact with the earth, 10% of kic impact against skin can be transferred into the ground.


    Passive Effect: Skin can transform into bark through daily training.


    Note: Wind, frost, searing sun, all of nature''s tribtions will make you even more unbreakable.


    The two spirits were both Oak Skin. Ashe found it strange. "How does it have two identical spirits?"


    Sonya exined, "Because masochists don''t care about the active effects of spirits, but the passive effects, which can stack. So to elerate their training, masochists often try to obtain multiple copies of the same spirit."


    "Do you want it?"


    "No, Oak Skin is worthless and doesn''t suit me. Even if I wanted a masochist spirit to strengthen my physique, there are better options. Besides, Oak Skin is just too ugly."


    The key point was it''s too ugly... Ashe recalled the beastman''s skin that looked like a piece of paper folded hundreds of times then unfolded - all those wrinkles and folds. He felt some resistance too.


    It wasn''t that he cared much for appearance, but that was just too ugly it affected one''s looks.


    Thus the two spirits naturally went into Ashe''s bag as backup funds.


    Sonya picked up a scroll the beastman had burst out of and skimmed it with disgust before tossing it to Ashe, muttering "I bet you can even absorb a sorcerer''s handbook like this?"


    Ashe caught it and his body trembled.


    The scroll left behind by the beastman was a... how to put it, called Flower Catalogue in elegant terms, Sorcerer''s Research Materials on the Intimate Customs of Other Worlds in serious terms, Fuck Yeah Rmendation Guide in crude terms.


    The beginning of the scroll contained a dozen or so artistic photos of beastmen. Although the aesthetics were rough, Ashe hadn''t seen erotic drawings in two or three days, so he could appreciate their primal beauty.


    Then it got interesting. There were humans, elves, ogres, furry long-eared ones, scaly long-tailed ones, winged ones, horned ones, even spiders - no wonder this beastman was a masochist sorcerer, who else could investigate so thoroughly and diversely!


    But there was one thing Ashe found unsatisfying, which was the beastman sorcerer''s taste being too singr, only pursuing "big". Big was good, big was beautiful. There wasn''t a single female under two meters in the scroll, all giants that Ashe had to gaze up at.


    "If you like it, why not take it and peruse slowly?" Sonya asked with arms akimbo, disdain in her eyes. "Tsk, men..."


    "Very quick, I''ll finish reading it quickly, just wait a moment."


    Although he said that, the scroll was extremely long, documenting at least hundreds of females, far more than Ashe had ever met. Truly a feast for the parched and flooded.


    When Ashe turned to the end of the scroll, he saw an ordinary beastwoman who was exceptionally the only one wearing clothes in the entire scroll.


    Based on the earlier information, this likely meant the masochist beastman sorcerer had not mated with her.


    In the photo, she held two beastman cubs against a wooden house. A bit short and stout, but she looked gentle, even her bared ferocious fangs showing no threat at all. Wearing a dirty apron, clearly a beastman farm wife.


    With no textual description, Ashe could only guess - did this masochist beastman sorcerer fall for this farm wife? But why didn''t they be mates? Was it because the beastman sorcerer was nearing death, or contracted some illness from excessive vitality nurturing?


    Truly a strange beastman sorcerer...


    As the scroll dissipated into light smoke, Ashe obtained two new skills.


    Secrets of Bliss (only effective on females over 2m)


    Primal Instincts


    Ashe looked at Secrets of Bliss (only effective on females over 2m), feeling somewhat stunned.


    How to put it... it was like obtaining an A1 license forrge vehicles without any driving experience. From today, he was a licensed cloud driver.


    The second skill, Primal Instincts, was quite useful though - not a racial trait, but the beastman sorcerer''sbat techniques honed over years of battle. It allowed effectively evading sudden sneak attacks from blind spots at close range.


    After absorbing the sorcerer''s handbook, this legacy isle was sinking again. Sonya sat at the stern watching him, cocking her eyebrows. "So you really can absorb that sorcerer''s handbook... looks like you have pretty broad tolerance..."


    "Not exactly, I just have more flexible principles."


    Ashe also vaguely sensed something amiss. Swordswoman couldn''t absorb the two handbooks, yet he absorbed them as soon as he saw them. Clearly the problem wasn''t the conservative swordswoman, but the overly open Ashe like a public bus.


    Ashe felt it was a hidden function of the game Aurora''s Sorcerer Handbook, but the game hadn''t given any rted prompts. He could only gloss it over.


    "Let''s head to the next area. Hopefully we can find a swordsmanship legacy isle... or a serendipity isle with sword spirits too... anything but a masochist legacy isle." Sonya leaned against the boat sidezilyining.


    Ashe nodded, finding it hard not to support this suggestion - facing enemies where one sh meant losing health, the experience really was too poor. Better to just summon a mudskipper dragon to instakill them.


    He opened Virtual World Exploration to check the nearby area hints. Suddenly he saw an orange hint below the right area that he had never seen before -


    Wait a moment


    Sonya waited several dozen seconds, noticing the boat showed no signs of moving. She asked puzzled, "Why aren''t we going yet?"


    "Have to wait a while before we can go."


    "Why?"


    "Don''t know."


    "How long?"


    "Don''t know."


    "Fine... let''s just wait then." Sonya stretchedzily. "Speaking of which, I also wanted to discuss something with you earlier but forgot.


    "Discuss what?"


    "About my daily training." Sonya hugged herself. "Can you cancel the mandatory training you assigned me?"


    How are fictional characters like this nowadays, actually unwilling to generate surplus value.


    Truly theziest generation of fictional characters I''ve seen.


    I never encountered this when ying mobile games before.


    Various thoughts shed through Ashe''s mind, but outwardly he crossed his ten fingers, striking a listening pose. "Of course, no problem. I respect Swordswoman''s wishes - but I''d like to know your reasons."

 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42


    "I barely have any personal time these days," Sonyained bitterly.


    "sses start at 8am every day - either core courses or electives. Since I transferred to the Sword Arts Department, I don''t have to take the Water Magic sses anymore, but I do have Intro to Sword Arts and Practical Sword Arts. On top of that, Professor Trotzam checks my progress almost every day and spars with me once. I''m on my feet all day without a moment''s rest."


    Sonya found it strange. Professor Trotzam was no idle retired professor who had nothing better to do than fuss over students - he was the legendary Hidden Hands Saint, the most famous sorcerer at Swordflower College.


    While Trotzam had taken on Sonya and Felix as research apprentices, he didn''t need to check on them every day. It wasn''t like Trotzam had never seen geniuses before. A Three Wings Saint like him certainly didn''t have time to waste.


    Yet not only did Professor Trotzam visit them daily, he even spared time to spar with Sonya - a privilege exclusive to her that made Felix look on enviously.


    Even though Felix was the senior apprentice, Trotzam so clearly favored her that it made Sonya feel bad but secretly smug at the same time.


    She wondered if it was the Observer''s doing, but dismissed the idea - that was the Hidden Hands Saint they were talking about!


    If the Observer could control her, that was probably the limit. How could he possibly manipte someone like Trotzam?


    Besides, if the Observer could control Trotzam, why make him beat her up instead of doing something more useful?


    "I know you want me to achieve something in sword arts," Sonya said as politely as she could. "But the workload I have during the day is enough already. I don''t need to be forced to train sword arts for another two hours at night."


    "Also, those extra training sessions are rather pointless. Now that I have the Vibration Sword spirit, I should focus my training on summoning auxiliary spirits toplement it, instead of basic drills..."


    Sonya felt a bit guilty saying those words.


    She was right, of course. As a sorcerer, she should switch from sword drills to "spirit training", improving her techniques in wielding spirits.


    Some may find it odd - wasn''t the Vibration Sword spirit summoned andpletely understood by Sonya herself? Why was there still room for improvement?


    That was because Sonya had fully understood the theory, but not the reality of it. Applying spirits involvedbining theory with practice in reality, so there was great potential still untapped.


    Take Sonya''s new move "Inner Vibration Sword" for example. It was the fruit of herbor these past couple days.


    Instead of shooting the Vibration Sword from afar, she now concentrated its power at the tip of her de, unleashing a destructive burst within the enemy''s body after stabbing them.


    There were many more techniques to uncover for the Vibration Sword. Spirit training was undoubtedly necessary.


    What''s more, by mastering the Vibration Sword fully, Sonya could summon corresponding auxiliary spirits.


    For instance,pletely mastering "Inner Vibration Sword" would give Sonya a high chance of summoning the "Inner" spirit. The Inner spirit couldpress the Vibration Sword''s power by 100% or even temporarily store it within enemies or objects, to be detonatedter by the sorcerer''s will.


    With two spiritsbined, the "Inner Vibration Sword" would be the even mightier "Miracle Inner Vibration Sword", much harder for enemies to predict.


    Of course, this was still a very basic miracle, not even worthy of being listed in the Sorcerer''s Compendium of Miracles, with nomercial value.


    But it reflected a sorcerer''s normal growth process - summon one spirit, then use it as foundation to summon auxiliary spirits, expanding it into a whole system of miracles.


    So Sonya''s request was reasonable.


    The problem was, she was a swordswoman.


    There was a saying among sword mages - if you just want to be an average sword mage, following the school curriculum is enough; but if you aim to reach the Second Wing Gold or Third Wing Saint tiers, or even higher, you must master the three basic spirits of sh, Thrust, and Slice.


    All sword spirits ultimately derive from those three. Mastering them doesn''t guarantee strength, but not mastering them means you have obvious weak points.


    Thus, it made perfect sense for Sonya to keep training foundations these days, just like all ambitious sword mage disciples including Felix who didn''t skip practice either - this was the time to build a solid base.


    Why did Sonya ask the Observer to cancel training then?


    Apart from being extremely tired and having zero leisure time - minor issues, the main reason was she wanted to test her bargaining power.


    Not that she was disobedient or anything, but Sonya had no intention of always being at another''s mercy.


    Even if the Observer rejected her this time, it was fine. Sonya could lobby step by step, making the Observer remember her efforts and toil every day. After all, the crying child gets the milk.


    Eventually, Sonya would figure out the Observer''s psychological baseline and thought patterns.


    At that time, it would be hard to say who was controlling whom...


    "You make a lot of sense," Ashe nodded, seemingly persuaded by the swordswoman.


    Sonya was slightly surprised - was the Observer so easy to convince?


    "But let me ask you this - what would you do with those extra two hours if you had them?"


    "I guess...reading books, watching theater, socializing and making more friends at parties?"


    "So entertainment and y, correct?"


    Ashe tapped his fingers, trying to remember how his boss used to manipte people.


    "Have you met people better off than you?"


    "Yes."


    "Have you met people as talented as you, but from better backgrounds?"


    "Yes."


    "Do you know what''s most terrifying in this world? It''s people with better backgrounds and equal talent who work harder than you! When you feel like resting, they seize the chance to widen the gap between you."


    Sonya''s mind stirred as she pictured Felix leaving in his fancy silver car.


    "Don''t waste your youth when you should strive hardest. Don''t indulge when you should fight. Many people''s starting line is our finish line. Are you willing to gaze at their backs forever, content to be ordinary, leaving your mark nowhere but the sea of knowledge?"


    Sonya''s lips moved but she shook her head in the end. "Unwilling."


    Ashe spoke gravely, "So sorcerer, such thoughts are unhealthy. Don''t me me for scolding you. Tired? Good,fort is for the old. Want to enjoy life? Good, enjoyment is for the sessful."


    "In your prime, step out of yourfort zone. Fill your life with strife, not leisure. Don''t let others'' lives blind you. Will you be happy just being ordinary like them? Don''t let desire overwhelm reason. Hedonism only slows your sword."


    "fight for what you want, so you can fully me the world when you fail, not yourself."


    "We mages ask not of the past, nor the future, only this life of zing glory, relishing bonds and vengeance alike!"


    After a long silence, Sonya nodded heavily. "You''re right, Observer!"


    Phew, managed to hoodwink her...Ashe was still not used to this job. He used to be the one getting psyched up by his boss. Now it was his turn to do the psyche-up.


    Gotta say, inducing anxiety in others was pretty fun. No wonder his boss loved sharing anxious posts.


    "How about reducing it to one hour instead of two? That shouldn''t impact much, right?"


    Ashe blinked as the navigation prompt in the Virtual World changed from "Wait" to "Now", quickly changing the subject: "No more chit-chat, focus up! We''re entering dangerous territory!"


    The boat sailed through mistyyers until an ind came into view.


    On the ind was a giant white fox, fur glinting with purple-white light as if the moon had fallen here, entrancingly beautiful. Ity coiled under a tree, body and tail furled up adorably, making one want to pet it badly.


    "It''s the Foxlight Dragon," Sonya whispered excitedly. "It''s asleep!"


    They quietly rowed ashore and tiptoed to the dragon''s head, exchanging nces. Bracing themselves,


    Sonya took a battojutsu stance while Ashe summoned a shadow clone with an unsharpened sword, both aimed at the fox dragon''s head - freed of his real body''s constraints, Ashe could use spirits in the Virtual World.


    Tests showed his shadow clones, while easily dispelled by a poke, could attack before being popped. So in situations like this, they added extra damage.


    As for unsharpened swords, just like Sonya could conjure a wooden one, Ashe naturally summoned weapons from his past Deathmatches. Guns were what he really wanted, but having never touched them in reality, he couldn''t imagine them into existence...


    Ready, they mouthed the countdown - three, two, one, strike!


    "sh Vibration Sword!"


    "Double sh!"


    The slumbering fox dragon was simultaneously smashed in the head by three swords. It unleashed a piercing howl that nearly deafened Sonya and Ashe, dispelling the shadow clone instantly.


    But the fox seemed stunned, unable even to get up, just thrashing wildly on the ground.


    Naturally they had no chivalry to speak of, taking the chance to whack it more while Ashe stroked its fur.


    After a dozen seconds, the fox let out an unwilling roar and dissolved into white smoke.


    It left behind three slumbering spirits who seemed confused, nkly eyeing the unfamiliar mages. But Sonya''s eyes were fixed not on them, but a bright orb on the ground.


    "What''s that?"


    "An Experience Orb," Sonya stared at the orb, desire unconcealed in her eyes. "No limits, no requirements. Any sorcerer who absorbs this gains the enlightenment and mastery of the knowledge being! Instant expertise in a whole school of magic!"


    "For the same school, it can even greatly boost the sorcerer''s level of learning andprehension, smoothing their path of advancement forevermore!"


    "Virtual Exploration is umtion through the long road."


    "Experience Orbs are sudden enlightenment in an instant!"

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43


    Human wisdom is limited, but truth is boundless.


    In this world where knowledge can summon spirits and spirits can create miracles, the pursuit of knowledge is almost ingrained in the souls of mages. But when mages eagerly seek knowledge, they are blocked by a chasm - learning efficiency.


    No matter the race or level, all mages learn the same way - by memorizing, understanding, and mastering. Different races of mages have their own advantages - the Agile Elves are good at memorizing, the Spiritual Elves are good at understanding, the Intuitive Beastmen are good at mastering. Though unequal, all races can be mages.


    However, upon entering the virtual world, mages find their racial advantagesughable before the immeasurable ocean of knowledge.


    No matter how gifted they are, their knowledge acquisition efficiency is like drinking from the sea of knowledge through a straw - the only difference is the straw''s thickness.


    Mages have tried many solutions, like miracles for ''photographic memory,'' ''elerated thinking,'' and ''intuitive learning'' to increase efficiency. Or extending their lifespan topensate for the inefficiency.


    The ever-growing pursuit of knowledge and thegging learning efficiency is an unsolvable contradiction mages face.


    But the virtual world has prepared a solution for mages.


    "This is a Light sphere experience orb," Sonya said softly, holding a pellucid orb, as if afraid to hurt it with loud noise, "Just by absorbing it, even someone clueless about Light spheres can instantly obtain Light knowledge at a Silver level and be a Light specialist."


    "Back in reality, with some research and organizing, one can even summon Light spirits based on the knowledge - because it provides not just ''virtual'' knowledge, but ''real'' experience - the experience of the Fox Dragon."


    "While spirits are worthless, experience orbs are truly priceless."


    Sonya looked at the orb with endless fascination, "Even the poorest mage would not sell experience orbs, and even the most generous mage would covet them. Though orbs can be taken out of the virtual world, almost no mage does so - the moment they obtain one, they absorb it."


    Nearly every legendary mage has absorbed numerous experience orbs. It is because of the orbs that mages can master various spheres of knowledge at once, innovating miracles, summoning new spirits, even founding new spheres.


    The progress of mage civilization owes greatly to the experience orbs.


    Ashe understood the wonder of the orbs, but not Sonya''s excitement.


    "You make the orb sound so precious, but didn''t we obtain it easily?"


    Sonya took a deep breath, mentally chanting ''the Observer is an idiot loudspeaker'' three times to calm herself before exining patiently: "Indeed, experience orbs are theoretically not rare - any knowledge creature has a chance to drop them when defeated."


    "But not to mention knowledge creatures often have the power to defeat mages of the same level, let''s assume you find a beatable one - often what happens is - right when you almost defeat the creature, it escapes."


    "They can escape?"


    "They are living beings, of course they have self-preservation instincts, how can they not try to escape?" Sonya retorted, "Can knowledge creatures that can birth spirits be so stupid as tockmon sense?"


    Ashe felt the swordswoman was somehow insulting him, but he had no evidence, "Then wouldn''t the mage lose out?"


    "Not necessarily. Knowing self-preservation, creatures deliberately drop spirits to distract the mage when escaping. As long as the mage defeats the creature, they at least get a spirit."


    "That''s good then, at least they don''t lose out."


    "Sometimes winning is more heartbreaking - if the mage kills the creature, the experience orb may also be destroyed."


    "Huh?"


    "The orbs don''t form after the creature''s death, they already exist inside the creature," Sonya exined, "Due to creatures vanishing upon death, no one knows where exactly orbs generate - it''s different even for each creature."


    "If the mage identally attacks the wrong spot, the orb is very likely destroyed."


    "Not getting an orb after killing a creature ismon for mages. They can''t know if the creature simply didn''t have an orb, or if they destroyed it by mistake."


    "Now you understand why getting this orb is so fortunate," Sonya looked where the Fox Dragon had vanished, "If the Fox Dragon hadn''t fallen asleep, if we didn''t focus our attacks on its head, if the orb happened to be in its head, if the dragon had the strength to fight back...any one ''if'' could have easily prevented us from obtaining the orb."


    Speaking of which, Sonya looked at the Observer in awe - his earlier lingering was undoubtedly to wait for the dragon''s slumber, such an unheard-of despicable tactic was just...too amazing!


    "Indeed."


    Ashe nodded, eyes fixed on the experience orb.


    Sonya gripped the orb tightly, body trembling slightly. But soon, she let out a breath and handed the orb to Ashe: "Here."


    "You''re willing to give it to me?"


    "Aren''t you in grave danger and urgently need strength?"


    Sonya feigned nonchnce, "I''m in no hurry. Take this orb. Don''t fight me for sword orbs next time."


    "OK!"


    Ashe reached to take the orb but couldn''t hold it.


    "Let go of it!"


    "I am, but my fingers won''t listen!"


    Ashe had to pry her fingers open one by one and take the orb from Sonya''s reluctant gaze.


    With a warm current flowing into his palm, a light screen popped up:


    "Light Sphere Orb"


    "The essence of truth left by the Fox Dragon, containing privileged knowledge an ordinary mage cannot obtain through normal means. Absorbing it grants copious Light sphere experience."


    "''Moonlight is the prancing fox, the fox is the walking moonlight.''"


    The moment he touched the orb, Ashe also felt a throb in his mind, an indescribable thirst spreading from deep within to his whole body. It was Ashe''s first time having this sensation - an intense thirst for knowledge that actually affected his rationality.


    It was an ineffable experience, morepelling than the urge when a novel reaches a critical point and suddenly stops updating, more anxious than seeking answers but finding half the exam paper missing, more exciting than an alluring picture loading to a key part then abruptly freezing - as if every pore and wrinkle of his body was urging Ashe to absorb the orb.


    In this moment, the prison, danger, survival were all flung a thousand miles away. Knowledge became Ashe''s sole desire.


    Just as Ashe couldn''t help but absorb the orb, a sh of wisdom shone from his rationality -


    Wait, I smell residual value.


    Ashe examined the orb''s description carefully. It undoubtedly said "absorbing grants copious Light sphere experience," which means...


    "You absorb it, swordswoman."


    Seeing the orb tossed over, the deft Sonya became flustered for once, carefully catching the Light orb. She looked at Ashe both angry and shocked.


    "Could your Light sphere level already be Silver or above?"


    "No, I don''t know anything about the Light sphere."


    "I see, the Light sphere conflicts with other spheres you''ve grasped? Like the Abyssal sphere..."


    "No no, I don''t know anything, as you well know."


    "Why don''t you absorb the orb then?"


    "Because we have a bond," Ashe said matter-of-factly. "You getting stronger means I get stronger."


    It wasn''t Sonya''s first time hearing the Observer tell her ''we have a bond.'' But before, she had thought it another cultured way of threatening - I can control you. Only now did she sigh: So this is what a bond is.


    As for the Observer saying ''you getting stronger means I get stronger'', Sonya took it as lip service, simr to ''only when you''re good, I''m good, and everyone''s good, then it''s truly good.''


    Without hesitation, Sonya crushed the experience orb. She trembled slightly, cheeks flushing, sighing melodiously.


    Though the scene was alluring, Ashe currently had no time to enjoy it, as he was in a simr state as Sonya.


    More than ''absorbing knowledge'', it felt like ''memories flooding into his mind''.


    Like seeing a difficult math problem then suddenly recalling what the teacher taught, Ashe naturally and seamlessly grasped ample rted knowledge. From a newbie clueless about the Light sphere, he leaped to be a Light sphere specialist.


    Indeed effective!


    30% of the Light sphere experience Sonya absorbed from the orb is shared with Ashe!


    This is why Ashe let Sonya take the orb - if he absorbed it himself, it would be 100% gains, but letting Sonya absorb it resulted in 130% gains!


    Moreover, as long as Sonya continues improving her Light sphere mastery, Ashe would obtain endlesssting benefits. Wouldn''t that generate far more residual value than his eating it alone?


    Thus Ashe was not blinded by the orb''s allure - the orb was but a tool, like a hoe, however cool this hoe, it should go to someone who can till fields to fully utilize it. Ashe this untalented one should just wait to eat rice.


    As Sonya gradually emerged from the residual euphoria of being filled with knowledge, she looked at Ashe with pure gratitude: "Thank you!"


    "Don''t let me down then. Be sure to thoroughly research the Light sphere knowledge, and don''t fall behind on your swordwork!"


    "Mm!"

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44


    With the distraction of the Experience Orb resolved, dividing up the remaining three spirits became easy and rxed.


    Although Sonya strongly demanded that all three spirits go to Ashe, after careful consideration, Ashe chose to take the two less valuable spirits for himself - "Foxfire" and "Lamplight" - and gave the most useful "Moon Silk" to Sonya.


    Foxfire:


    A single-wing spirit.


    Limitation: The sorcerer must have a tail.


    Basic Effect: Lash out a varying number of blue mes with the tail. The blue mes can cling to a specific target and burn for a period of time. The target feels no pain and may even experience pleasure.


    Passive Effect: The sorcerer''s fur bes more lush and mmable.


    "Pain and pleasure are but illusions. When you burn away the disguise of skin, you see the inner truth."


    Lamplight:


    A single-wing spirit.


    Limitation: The sorcerer must possess a light source or be near one.


    Basic Effect: Emit amp light that can float freely ording to your will.


    Passive Effect: You be more spirited in well-lit areas.


    "It is not light that dispels darkness, but darkness that chases light."


    Moon Silk:


    A single-wing spirit.


    Limitation: The sorcerer must possess a light source or be near one.


    Basic Effect: Produce numerous temporarily suspended and taut strands of moonlight.


    Passive Effect: You be more agile under moonlight.


    "Hear the moonlight weaving the veil of night."


    Clearly, "Foxfire" and "Lamplight" were the fox dragon''s main means of attack - attaching Foxfire to Lamplight creates flexible and sustained fiery assaults.


    Fortunately, they had ambushed the sleeping fox dragon. Otherwise, just the "Foxfire Lamplight"bo would have been enough to overwhelm them, not to mention the "Moon Silk" - Sonya tried it out, and it can produce razor-sharp suspended strands of moonlight in midair. Anyone running into them would be sliced apart instantly. It was like a litigious trap.


    Ashe had wanted to take "Moon Silk" too, but he wouldn''t be able to use spirits in prison, so having such a good spirit would be meaningless. Hence he chose "Foxfire" and "Lamplight", nning to redeem them for credits directly - since neither of them had tails, they couldn''t meet the conditions to use "Foxfire Lamplight".


    He left the stronger "Moon Silk" to the Swordswoman as research homework. After all, her learning experiences would be shared with Ashe too. He couldn''t leave her with no practice material.


    At this point, Ashe suddenly realized a problem: "Can we exchange spirits in the Virtual World?"


    Sonya immediately knew what he was getting at: "You want me to help you find a spirit to sh and work miracles, then exchange it in the virtual world?"


    "Yeah, after all, you-"


    "It won''t work."


    "Huh?"


    "Never unlink yourself from a spirit in the Virtual World, or very bad things will happen."


    Ashe gulped nervously.


    "W-What bad things will happen?"


    Sonya shook her head. "The spirit will vanish instantly. No sorcerer has ever caught one back."


    "Can''t we...can''t we chase and catch it back?"


    Sonya nodded then shook her head. "You may not realize - we sorcerers are travelers from the outside. In this virtual domain, the spirits are the true masters."


    "While spirits can''t be considered living things, and it''s questionable whether they even think, they undoubtedly possess certain instincts - such as the longing for freedom."


    Recalling how the spirits they met on Serendipity Isle had quickly fled, Ashe nodded in agreement. But he was still puzzled.


    "The spirits don''t escape very quickly. Why can''t we catch them?"


    "Because those were spirits never captured before. Which do you think is more wary - a rat caught once, or one never caught before? Learning is also an instinct for spirits."


    "But no matter how wary, spirits can''t run that fast, right?"


    Sonya nodded then shook her head again. "In reality, you''re right. Unlinking from a spirit in reality, though they will flee, won''t affect reality much. They''re easy to recapture."


    "But the Virtual World is the spirits'' home, the origin of all miracles. If a spirit wills it, the entire Virtual World aids its escape."


    "Though unsure what price the spirits pay, records show that if you unlink from a spirit in the Virtual World, it vanishes instantly. No sorcerer has ever recaptured one since."


    Another path blocked. Ashe sighed, about to leave, but Sonya called for him to stop. "Don''t rush off yet. We still have something to split here."


    Sonya walked to the small tree the fox dragon had coiled around and plucked two unripe tiny fruits. Ashe epted one but couldn''t identify what fruit it was.


    "Phantasmal fruit, soul fruit, mystic fruit - this thing has many names, andes in different forms, but the effect is the same: Eat it to replenish depleted soul energy and extend exploration time in the Virtual World."


    "Oh, and it tastes awful."


    Ashe gagged, ring at the Swordswoman several seconds before recovering from the disgust. It was as bad as eating shit. "Next time, can you put the important point first?"


    "Wasn''t it nice getting a surprise? I don''t wanna eat a second one." Sonya''s face was also twisted in revulsion.


    Perhaps the Experience Orb had used up their luck, for Ashe didn''t find any more "Worth Exploring" or "Wee" ideal zones afterwards. All he got were "Seeking Death", "Wasted Effort", and even a "Run Away" once.


    Returning from the Virtual World to the prison, Ashe redeemed "Foxfire" and "Lamplight" for credits. At 10 credits each, plus the earlier sale of "Burst Shot", Ashe now had 30 credits.


    Perfect. A "Source Crystal Set" in the game cost exactly 30 credits.


    Although Ashe could keep saving up for a bigger set, after hearing about Professor Storley''s bounty on him from Valcas, his sense of peril grew heavier by the day - the prison was no safe haven! Danger lurked everywhere. He had to spend when able, or lose the chance forever.


    Spending all 30 credits to buy a "Source Crystal Set", which contained 6 crystals, Ashe obtained 12 crystals total thanks to the first purchase double reward.


    Plus the 3 crystals from check-in rewards over the past days, Ashe had 15 crystals for 5 draws!


    Drawing again after three days, Ashe washed his hands first, pressed palms together muttering prayers to any deities he could name, even appealing to the origin of this world''s miracles: "Oh grand Virtual World, I used your spirits'' redemption to draw these cards. In other words, I''m drawing in your stead too. What''s yours is mine, and mine will be yours eventually. I won''t say more. You get it..."


    Draw!


    Single draws since he didn''t have enough for a 10x draw. Believe, and miracles wille!


    White light, "Vitality Potion!"


    More training for the Swordswoman next week it was.


    White light, "Basic Combat Card!"


    Purple light, "Virtual World Telescope!"


    Orange light, "The Swordswoman''s Silver Coin!"


    Purple light, "Awakening Battle Record!"


    Three new items in a row at the end! The allure of single draws.


    Virtual World Telescope: Extend observation range by 1 grid when exploring the Virtual World.


    The shorter the description, the more powerful the item - Ashe immediately grasped how great this was. His current observation range was only 1 grid, meaning he could only see surroundings out to 8 grids. With this telescope, his view expanded from 3x3 grids to 5x5 grids! The number of observable grids grew from 8 to 24!


    A major reason Ashe kept failing to find good exploration zones was his terrible visibility in the Virtual World. Now he could only take the safest paths. With this item, their exploration efficiency improved 50% at least!


    The Swordswoman''s Silver Coin: One of the three silver coins treasured by the Death Maniac Swordswoman. Lost after many years. If someone brings this coin to meet her, they will receive a reward, or death. Unlocks Bond feature when used.


    Though the description was vague, Ashe instantly recognized the gacha game pattern: max limit breaks to unlock more character art and tempt yers to spend more.


    Using "The Swordswoman''s Silver Coin" changed the Death Maniac Swordswoman''s info:


    Death Maniac Swordswoman


    Race: Human Female Age 18


    Bond Level: 1 (35% EXP share)


    Bond Resonance - Greed: Chance to gain better loot when acting together.


    ss: Singlewing Swordsmage


    ss Trait: 10% less arcane cost for swordsmage spirits.


    Items: Wooden Practice Sword


    Spirits: Vibration Sword, Moon Silk, Raging Rapids


    Swordsage School: Silver


    Light School: Silver


    Water School: Novice


    Virtual World Exploration: 0.002%


    Aside from raised EXP share from 30% to 35%, the main change was the new "Bond Resonance - Greed".


    Clearly a character w rather than beneficial to Ashe, but the effect was good. He''d let the Swordswomannd thest hits from now on.


    Ashe looked at the final draw, "Awakening Battle Record".


    Purple meant it was around the same level as the Telescope, so another terrific item.


    Awakening Battle Record: Arrange an intense battle for an Operator to enter an awakened state. Gains 250% battle EXP and higher chances of miracles, spirit summoning, and breakthroughs in the awakened state (Danger Level: Moderate).


    "I barely have any personal time each day now..."


    "I''m so tired..."


    "Can we reduce training to one hour a day..."


    The Swordswoman''sints seemed to echo in Ashe''s ears. But just then, the prison morning chant began right on time:


    "When hurt enough, take it out with both hands, severing yesterday''s curses. Stay the night awaiting dawn, leaving just the scars..."


    The song appeared to strengthen Ashe''s resolve. He decisively used "Awakening Battle Record"!


    Selected target: Death Maniac Swordswoman!


    "It''s for your sake too, Swordswoman!"

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45


    In the Star Kingdom, the Cailleach World, Sword and Rose Sorcerer University.


    "Against the Turbid Heart Monster, unless the swordsman can pierce its brainstem in the first moment - cutting off its head is useless, as long as the Turbid Heart Monster still has its brain it canunch attacks - otherwise they will be affected by its spirit magic ''Frenzy''. Upon noticing impatience, the swordsman must pierce his own thigh with pain to stay sober, allowing the rest of the ranged sorcerers in the team to kill the Turbid Heart Monster..."


    In the terraced ssroom, only the teacher''s voice droned on while Sonya, sitting by the window, looked at the three bright stars in the sky outside. Warm sunlight spilled onto thewn, the walkways, the park benches - all creation shone radiantly.


    "Sonya!" Ingritt whispered urgently, "Don''t space out during ss!"


    Sonya, who was resonating with the light of reality, smiled slightly. "It''s not an important ss anyway, my bracelet is recording notes, even if I space out a little..."


    "This is the most important Introduction to Swordsmanship ss!" Ingritt said seriously, "Don''t you want to delve into the Abyss in the future? Aren''t you afraid of danger? Having the bracelet record notes is useless! This is the most crucial knowledge ss about enemies, you can never be too careful about safety issues!"


    "Cough cough!"


    The teacher on the podium coughed twice and the two girls quickly sat up straight to listen attentively.


    Introduction to Swordsmanship was not about teaching empty theories, but about introducing the countermeasures swordsmen had to take when facing different enemies in different environments. The reason this course existed was precisely because it was closely rted to the future career directions of swordsmen.


    Swordsmen were undoubtedly purebat sorcerers. Unlike watermages who could switch to be healers, mechanical mages who could be crafters, swordsmen would gradually decline in peaceful times, and might even face a broken lineage.


    The prosperity of swordsmanship in the Star Kingdom was precisely because the world was unsafe, constantly threatened by the Abyss.


    The Abyss was not a fixed ce, but a randomly appearing monster nest. It was said to be random, but there were also traces to follow: it would only appear in populous cities, or rather, the more sorcerers in an area, the more likely the Abyss would appear.


    As the core city of the Star Kingdom, Cailleach naturally also suppressed thergest Abyss.


    To this day, no schr could exin the cause behind the generation of the Abyss, but the threat it posed had to be dealt with. The Abyss could not be eradicated; the deeper one went, the more powerful the monsters became. Even Saint-tier and Legend-tier deep level monsters might appear, but even the surface level monsters were not easy to handle.


    Because the terrain of the Abyss changed drastically every period of time, sorcerers could not build camps inside. At the same time, every period of time, the Abyss would riot and Legend monsters would also run to the surface levels. Therefore, during that period, all sorcerers had to retreat from the Abyss.


    Due to various restrictions, ''periodic cleansing of the Abyss'' thus became a very important social division ofbor. Other than the few who could be nobles or corporate ''riot consultants'', most swordsmen would form small teams with other sorcerers to periodically adventure into the Abyss and y monsters.


    This was by no means a dirty job, rather, it was an excellent path to take. On top of the ''Extermination Gold'' provided by the country, the various spoils of war dropped by the Abyss monsters were also extremely valuable. Sometimes, even rare resource points could be found inside the Abyss.


    Many nobles originated from Abyss adventure teams, and the number of sorcerers who had fortuitous encounters in the Abyss was countless.


    But risks and rewards were proportional - the monsters in the Abyss almost all had spirit bodies, theirbat power not inferior to sorcerers. Every day, countless sorcerers died in the Abyss, with the possibility of entire teams being wiped out, bing nutrients for the Abyss.


    Therefore, Ingritt was so dissatisfied with Sonya''s attitude: listening for one more second in Introduction to Swordsmanship ss would increase her vignce and caution when facing danger in the Abyss in the future!


    But Sonya had just absorbed an Experience Orb and was excited like a child with a new toy, her mind preupied with proving the knowledge of the Light Faction. Also, she no longer thought it was likely for her to adventure in the Abyss - there was a small possibility before, but now with her talents and the Observer''s support, she could easily attain Saint without having to roll around fighting desperately in the Abyss with others!


    When Introduction to Swordsmanship ended, next was Swordsmanship Practicum, a sparring ss between swordsman students. On the way to the practicum hall, students all around kept stealing nces at Sonya, gossiping incessantly.


    Sonya was not surprised by this. Since Professor Trotzam allowed her to skip all procedures and directly join the Swordsmanship Department, she had be the focus and daily hot topic among students.


    But today felt a little different - in addition to Sonya, the students were also observing Felix on the other side.


    "Look, she''s the one who dumped Sylvia..."


    "Sonya will probably get dumped soon too..."


    "I knew with one look she was that kind of person..."


    Although she could only catch fragmented voices, Sonya roughly grasped what had happened - the news that Felix dumped Sylvia had spread, and as the woman most recently associated with Felix, Sonya inevitably became the center of attention.


    Don''t stir up trouble for me... Right now, Sonya only wanted to keep a low profile and umte strength. She did not want to waste energy over such petty matters.


    But women had strong predictive powers, especially when it came to foretelling misfortune - upon entering the practicum hall, Sonya discovered many unfamiliar faces present, and the only one she recognized was senior Sylvia.


    At this time, Sylvia had red swollen eyes from crying, looking refined and pitiful in her modest attire. She was the very image of a wronged fairdy that evoked sympathy andpassion from all who saw her. Although Sonya was confident in her own looks, Sylvia had temperament, ambience, and tearful makeup buffs. At this moment, Sonya would be unable to surpass her no matter what.


    "Ingritt, I''m skipping ss."


    "Okay." Ingritt also expressed understanding.


    However, just as Sonya wanted to leave the practicum hall, a roar shook even the dust off the ceiling.


    "Felix,e here!"


    A tall swordsman with ck hair bellowed loudly, "You dare toy with my sister''s feelings, could it be you don''t dare show your face!?"


    At these words, the crowd''s gaze immediately turned to Felix and Sonya. Felix remained calm, seemingly having gone through simr situations countless times before, and casually strode into the practicum hall. After some internal struggle, Sonya also abandoned the idea of running away - she could not leave silently like this, leaving meant weakness, running away meant concession.


    In the countryside, weakness and concession only made you easier to bully.


    It was the same in the big city.


    Country mice and city mice were fundamentally alike in their narrow vision.


    "Lorein, Sylvia, good morning." Felix nodded at them, "Shall we have lunch togetherter?"


    "Forget it, looking at your face now makes me want to vomit." Facing the young master of House Vlozrada, the ck-haired swordsman did not bother with pleasantries: "Draw your sword, let me see the backbone of House Vlozrada."


    Upon hearing this, the students nearby immediately began whispering furtively while Ingritt could not help gasping softly: "It''s actually Senior Lorein!"


    With Ingritt''s introduction, Sonya finally learned that this Senior Lorein was also a figure of renown, a swordsmanship genius in his third year. Although he had not been noticed by Professor Trotzam, he had also be the research apprentice of a certain Golden Swordsman, and became a Silver Wings swordsman a year ago. He was part of thepetitive team in the Swordflower Swordsmanship Tournament!


    Although only from a medium noble family, Lorein could at least attain two wings Golden in the future, with a bright future ahead. Naturally he did not need to show respect to a mere young master of the Vlozrada family who relied on his family to eat. Those who relied on their own skills to make a living were simply more backboneless.


    Lorein and Sylvia were not blood-rted siblings. Their fathers were brothers, and them being in the same school and grade, their rtionship was thus very good. It was right and proper for Lorein to vent Sylvia''s anger.


    However, Felix did not ept the challenge, instead looking towards Sylvia: "Senior sister, is this what you hope for?"


    Others might think Felix was conceding, but Sonya knew he was truly confused - as someone who could change girlfriends four times a month, Felix naturally did not harbor feelings towards them. He thought other women also approached him with knowledge of this premise, so his debauchery had never led to any issues so far.


    But Sonya noticed the way Sylvia looked at Felix, and immediately understood everything.


    What started out as just an act had be true feelings for Sylvia.


    Only with true feelings could it exin why Sylvia was being so irrational now, severing herst shred of possibility with Felix while also doing something futile.


    Emotions were the most iprehensible thing. Women always thought they were thest, while men always thought they were the first. The losing party who fell into the trap would always harbor unrealistic fantasies.


    With no response from Sylvia, Felix looked at Lorein: "Senior Lorein, your meaning is... you want to beat me up?"


    "This is the practicum hall. Let''s have a practicum match." Lorein sneered coldly, "The infirmary is right next door, I''ll also restrain my strength and won''t make the Vlozrada family lose an outstanding scion. You can''t possibly not dare, right?"


    "Good, very good. How could I possibly not dare? It''s just a first year versus a third year, a swordsman who just became a sorcerer days ago against a senior who became a sorcerer over a year ago. How could I possibly be afraid?"


    Felix bared his teeth in a smile, his every word pointing out Lorein''s bullying. He was a noble scion but not an idiot, how could he fall for such obvious provocation?


    The surrounding students clearly did not approve of such a mismatch battle either. This was no different from bullying. But Lorein''s expression remained unchanged as his gaze shifted from Felix to Sonya.


    Sonya immediately had a bad premonition.


    "Felix, I heard you recently gained a pretty little ''junior sister''. You even summoned spirits together in battle, your rtionship must be ''close'' and ''intimate''."


    Lorein deliberately stressed his words, taunting, "As your senior, I certainly won''t bully the weak. I''ll even give you the advantage of outnumbering your opponent - since I''m avenging Sylvia, just fighting you Felix is not enough. Let your little junior sister over as well!"


    "I''ll take on you both myself!"


    Although Lorein did not say it explicitly, almost every sentence of his revealed the same underlying implication:


    I''m going to beat you two cheating dogs today!


    At this moment, Sonya almost wanted to smash the Observer''s head in - how did a harmless spectator like her get dragged into this pile of crap?


    Now everyone''s gazes were upon her, even Felix.


    Sonya''s eyes darted around. She did not step forward, standing next to Ingritt with a questioning look on her face: "Sorry Senior Lorein, I don''t understand what you mean - although I do learn from Professor Trotzam together with Felix, we don''t have much contact in private. This is your personal grudge, I have no reason to get involved."


    Just rush up to fight alongside Felix because Lorein was spouting nonsense?


    Sonya was no longer a child. Likes and dislikes were not her sole principles.


    She only wanted to grow stronger quietly now. Felix''s friendship did not interest her at all. This was also her best chance to rify - if she really joined Felix to fight Lorein, it would only confirm their suspicions of her being the ''cheating dog woman''.


    No matter how she looked at it, distancing herself from this whirlpool was the wisest choice.


    Lorein no longer paid Sonya any heed, coldly sneering once: "It seems Felix, your charm is not worth much after all."


    "You misunderstood." Felix said lightly as he untied his sword bag and took out a wooden sword, the atmosphere on the brink of ignition.


    Just when Sonya thought she could skip ss, a hand suddenlynded on her shoulder.


    "This is unreasonable - battles with such a huge disparity in strength are no different from bullying. As a member of the disciplinemittee, I cannot allow such one-sided crushing situations to happen."


    A heroic, valiant female swordsman with orange hair gripped Sonya''s shoulder, pushing her forward. Sonya turned her head back, only catching sight of the woman''s work pass on her chest: "Swordflower Discipline Committee: Leone Vickt".


    "It''s Senior Leone!"


    "How is she at school?"


    "It''s the Dancing Orange de herself!"


    The orange-haired swordswoman pulled Sonya all the way to the center of the arena. Her hand was like an iron w, leaving Sonya unable to struggle free.


    "Junior Felix, Junior Sonya, you two should interact more in the future. If Professor Trotzam knew you two couldn''t even help and care for each other, he would definitely be very disappointed."


    The orange-haired swordswoman looked at Sonya, smiling.


    "While Senior Lorein does have the suspicion of bullying the weak, you two are Professor Trotzam''s research apprentices. Him bullying you is the same as insulting the Saint of Hidden Hands. How can you two bear to swallow this insult?"


    "You should know, Felix, that you represent not only yourself now, but also that you are one of Professor Trotzam''s only two apprentices. Sonya, you understand this principle, yes?"


    Sonya reluctantly nodded then shook her head. "But this is their personal grudge..."


    "The moment Lorein said he wanted to challenge you two, even if only to defend the reputation of the Saint of Hidden Hands, you have to ept the challenge. Moreover, with two against one, the odds of winning are so high, refusing would only make you seem cowardly."


    "As swordsmen, you should have the courage to press forward, and the backbone to speak reason through your swords! Defeat your enemy, and you will be the one most justified!"


    "Sonya, what do you think?"


    The moment the orange-haired swordswoman brought up Professor Trotzam''s name, Sonya knew she could not avoid this battle.


    No matter if Professor Trotzam actually cared or not, Sonya did not dare gamble.


    Trotzam was currently her biggest backer. She dared not take any risks that might influence Trotzam''s perception of her, much less now with hundreds watching. If she shrank back despite Trotzam''s reputation, the news would spread through Swordflower within ten minutes.


    But she detested this feeling - being manipted, coerced, schemed against, and finally forced to participate in a battle she did not want any part of!


    Strong feelings of indignance and humiliation simmered within her, almost making Sonya''s shoulders tremble.


    But she was a girl who ran to Cailleach all alone from the countryside. Reason quickly took over.


    However, just as she was suppressing her dissatisfaction, a familiar voice sounded by her ear.


    "Do you need my help? I guarantee I can eliminate your vexation."


    "Yes!"


    "You agreed in your own words, don''t me me."


    The Observer walked past behind Sonya and disappeared into the air after speaking.


    The next second, Sonya looked towards the orange-haired swordswoman.


    "Sonya, your decision now is - ?"


    "I refuse!" Sonya resolutely shook her head, "I absolutely will not get involved in their personal grudges, will not fight alongside Felix, will not battle Senior Lorein!"


    The orange-haired swordswoman raised her brows slightly: "But if so..."


    "However!"


    Sonya looked at the orange-haired swordswoman, enunciating each word clearly and sonorously.


    "As Professor Trotzam''s apprentice, I cannot tolerate you repeatedly using Professor Trotzam''s reputation to provoke and threaten me before my eyes. I cannot tolerate you trying to incite student sentiments and question the quality of Professor Trotzam''s teaching! Even more, I cannot tolerate you using the oue between the two of us to nder Professor Trotzam''s character!"


    "I didn''t-"


    "No need to exin. Just as you said, defeat your enemy, and you will be the one most justified. So - "


    Sonya undid her sword bag, took out a wooden sword, and pointed it straight at the orange-haired swordswoman.


    "Leone Vickt, I challenge you."

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46


    Swordflower College, Combat Hall.


    Seeing Sonya pointing her sword at Leone, there was only one thought in the minds of all the onlooking crowd:


    What is she doing?


    Felix, Sylvia, Ingritt and others had the same thought:


    What is Sonya doing?


    Even Sonya herself was lost in thought:


    What am I doing?


    Only Leone was momentarily stunned, then couldn''t help covering her mouth as she burst intoughter, the sound escaping through her teeth and lips. It was obvious she was trying hard not tough out loud.


    After a good while, she took a deep breath, traces of the crazyughter still on her face, and asked as seriously as she could:


    "Junior sister Sonya, are you serious? You want to challenge me, Leone Vickt?"


    It''s fake! I''m not serious! The viewer controlled me just now!


    Viewer, you shameless thing controlling a young girl''s body!


    Sonya was almost screaming and cursing in her heart, but she couldn''t give this reason. She also believed the viewer would definitely not appear again - at least not until she finished thisbat training.


    It was understandable that everyone had this reaction, because the one Sonya challenged was Leone.


    At Swordflower College, Leone was probably the most famous student. Whether it was her talent, award history, or various scandals, they were the talk of the town.


    On her first day of school, she had beat all the new swordsmanship students;


    In second grade she was promoted to Silver Wings Rank 1, and became the disciple of Swordflower''s other swordsaint "Rhythm Swordsaint" Nidara;


    In third grade she participated in abyssal expeditions, forming a team with geniuses from Trinity College, gaining much loot and adventure in the abyss.


    Even Trinity College wanted to poach her. Many considered Leone a future swordsaint, a Saint apprentice!


    More importantly, Leone had been frequently adventuring in the abyss half a year ago. Everyone knew she wanted to break through to the next level inbat, and advance to Silver Wings Rank 2!


    This meant Leone had fully spread her Silver Wings, she was a one wing mage at full power!


    Inparison, Sonya and Felix had just entered the virtual world for a few days. Forget about Silver Wings, they hadn''t even condensed a single silver feather. The difference in arcane power between them was greater than between a child and an adult.


    Although arcane power was just an energy resource, the actualbat depended on the mage''s level. But no one thought Sonya had the slightest chance, not even Sonya herself.


    The spirits Leone had must be far more than her, and Leone surely grasped sword miracles. Add Leone''s abundant abyssbat experience.


    The more shepared, the more desperate Sonya felt - why did the viewer want to harm her like this!


    She might as well fight Lorein instead!


    Even if she lost to Lorein, people would think Lorein bullied the weak. But losing to Leone would be different, people would think Sonya was arrogant and ignorant.


    Not to mention the arrogant words Sonya had just said.


    If she lost badly, she wouldn''t even have the face to see Professor Trotzam afterwards.


    The more she thought the angrier she felt. Last time was the same, the viewer made her challenge Felix for no reason, causing today''s troubles. She didn''t expect the viewer to repeat the trick, making her provoke Leone!


    But the viewer wasn''t wrong.


    Sonya didn''t feel unhappy right now.


    Because she only thought about strangling the viewer tonight in the virtual world.


    But words were already spoken, Sonya couldn''t take them back. She could only grit her teeth and nod: "That''s right."


    "Good, courageous, as your senior in the swordsmanship department I have no reason to decline a challenge from my junior sister. "


    "However," Leone smiled, "As a disciplinarymittee member, I can''t let such an unbnced match happen in school. So..."


    She went to the side and casually took a wooden training sword from the rack, saying:


    "Although I said I''ll go easy, anything could happen inbat. So let''s just set fair rules for victory and defeat - "


    "In thisbat training, if my sword touches your body even once, it counts as my loss."


    "As long as your sword is disarmed, it counts as my win."


    "Of course, if you can disarm my sword, then naturally you win."


    Laughter sounded around them - no one believed Sonya could disarm Leone''s sword. Leone''s words were more like an impossible demand.


    Leone looked at Lorein and Felix. "This rule also applies to you two. Lorein, either be confident you can defeat him without harming Felix, or just give up... As a third year student, you can''t becking even that much confidence right?"


    "You can make the rules even stricter," Lorein said coldly, "I don''t mind."


    Felix calmly said: "With such easy victory conditions, I have no reason to refuse."


    When Leone looked at her, Sonya suddenly understood.


    Leone didn''t just happen to appear, she and Lorein definitely nned this beforehand. West''s matter was just a timely catalyst.


    Leone was Rhythm Swordsaint''s disciple, she and Felix were Hidden Hands Swordsaint''s disciples... Was this a sh between Swordflower''s two swordsaints? Or was Leone testing their character?


    But in any case, Sonya had no reason to back down now. And after Leone proposed such ''generous'' rules, she couldn''t help feeling some fighting spirit... and humiliation from being looked down on!


    Sonya took a deep breath and gripped the wooden sword tightly: "I have no objections either, senior sister Leone."


    "Then I announce, battle... start!"


    Blood Moon Kingdom, Shattered Lake Prison.


    Ashe looked at the empty cafeteria while eating braised Lfat, wondering if today was some holiday.


    Why hadn''t he seen any other inmates this morning?


    The Deathmatch Society, central hall, reading room, gym, theater... He didn''t see anyone anywhere, only some guards ying with light screens, as if everyone had agreed to stay in their cells today.


    But they still had to eat. Surely not everyone was spending contribution to get meals delivered to their cells?


    The sense of unease grew stronger. Ashe felt like a farmer seeing animals fleeing roots and all, knowing disaster wasing but helpless to do anything but await his doom.


    When he was halfway through his meal, Ashe''s body suddenly stiffened.


    A light screen automatically popped up, cold red words reflecting in Ashe''s eyes:


    ��Dear Mr. Ashe Heath, inmate number 4001623. Shattered Lake Prison hereby notifies you that you are now under surveince status. Please remain calm and cooperate with the supervisor''s instructions.��


    He abruptly stood up and went to stand upright at the cafeteria entrance, body straight like a statue without the slightest shift or tremble.


    After a while, seven inmates walked stiffly to the cafetria entrance, moving identically as if controlled by a puppeteer, standing side by side with Ashe.


    There was a fist''s gap between each person, standing in a straight line like troops undergoing drill.


    The elven swordsman Valcas Uhl, Ronat Wade the ''gourmand''''s boyfriend, were among them!


    Everyone had extremelyplex expressions, showing fear, resignation, despair, rxation, but scanning their faces Ashe only saw one message:


    Save me!


    After another minute, a tall burly guard came to the cafeteria entrance. He gave the inmates a faint smile, baring pale savage fangs.


    "Greetings everyone, I''m your supervisor for today, Nago McMin. Pleased to meet you all. Please introduce yourselves from left to right."


    "Archibald Harvey."


    "Valcas Uhl."


    "Ronat Wade."


    "Rudo Enfield."


    When it was Ashe''s turn, Ashe found he couldn''t control his mouth, speaking mechanically: "Ashe Heath."


    After they reported their names once, the guard Nago nodded satisfiingly and said:


    "Today''s schedule is to first finish lunch, then this afternoon I''ll take you to watch movies and breathe some sea air on the viewing tform... Oh right, due to recent proposals by human rights organizations, you''ll have an hour to contact outside family and friends."


    "There''s nothing more to say about ns after dinner. If you have any suggestions or questions, you can bring them up now."


    Ashe immediately raised his hand. Guard Nago looked at him: "Speak."


    Mouth restrictions were lifted. Ashe swallowed and asked the most important question: "I want to ask, what are the ns after dinner..."


    Although he already had an expectation, there was still a sliver of hope.


    Guard Nago smiled. He had seen many death row inmates like this, clinging to futile hopes, but he didn''t dislike personally shattering their hopes.


    Giving despair was a supervisor''s responsibility, and a supervisor''s pleasure.


    "Dear Ashe, the ns after dinner, of course it''s to take you to watch the Blood Moon Tribunal live."

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47


    "Hey, stop going to ss. Come to thebat hall! Isn''t Orange Dancer your idol? She''s right here!"


    "People in front, make way! This is Swordmage ss!"


    "This is the school''sbat hall, you Swordmages should get lost!"


    More and more students flooded into thebat hall, many calling their friends over to watch the spectacle. After all, the messy love triangle between Felix, Sonya, and Sylvia was dramatic enough, and now Lorein and Leone joined the fray as supporting characters. Even if there were sses, students woulde to see the drama unfold.


    Thebat instructor simply stepped aside, taking a "let them fight" attitude. Disputes between swordsaint disciples were not something he should get involved in, and thebat was reasonable as long as no one died.


    If this were an evenly matched duel between students, the instructor might be worried they would get carried away. But this was the safest scenario possible.


    The difference in strength was far too great.


    Sonya let out a roar, her wooden sword swinging with a swoosh, pale purple sword qi rippling into a curtain before her like a wall to block Leone.


    "Not bad fan vibration sword."


    Leone casuallymented and tapped the curtain with her wooden sword. She flicked her wrist, batting away the curtain like a rag. Stepping forward, her wrist snapped!


    ng!


    The heavy impact traveled down the wooden de, forcing Sonya back two steps as her hands nearly lost grip.


    Sweat dripped down her face, smudging her makeup. Her clothes were drenched as if she just emerged from ake. She panted loudly like a country bumpkin, all pretenses of elegance gone. But Sonya had no time for that now, her eyes fixed on Leone without a second''s respite.


    This was the first time she truly felt what a sorcerer was.


    Felix was a newbie like her, insignificant. Professor Trotzam was too far above her, only teaching and not applying real pressure when they dueled.


    And her smooth adventures in the Virtual World fed her arrogance��being a sorcerer isn''t that hard!


    She wasn''t humble, but haughty. Believing her future would be bright, she endured present obscurity.


    Until Leone shattered her facade.


    Leone used only basic sword spirits from start to finish: sh Sword, Stab Sword, Cut Sword. It wasn''t a matter of arcane power either. Leone''s attacks only pressured Sonya without being unblockable.


    A sorcerer''s true terror was knowledge.


    Every second, every move, Sonya felt Leone inplete control. It was as if Leone knew her every derivative action and had countless counters ready, effortlessly nullifying anything Sonya tried.


    Like a child wrestling an adult who only needed one hand to hold down their head, helpless frustration brewed in Sonya''s heart no matter how hard she swung. The indignity made her want to scream.


    "Continue, junior Sonya. Show me everything you''ve got."


    Leone raised her wooden sword slightly. "Don''t worry about hurting me."


    The seemingly caring words were more mocking than any insult. Sonya gritted her teeth, inhaling deeply. "Then senior, I''m going all out. Be careful!"


    "I look forward to it."


    Sonya adopted a sword-sheathing stance. Leone''s eyebrows rose with some interest. "Iaijutsu?"


    Step, pivot, sh!


    Gales erupted as a rippling sword qi swept the stage. Sonya charged and spun with lightning speed, blinking to Leone''s front!


    This was her original move��Spiral Vibration Iai sh!


    "Interesting, but..."


    Leone precisely read Sonya''s sword path and shed down. "Nothing more than��"


    Just then, Sonya suddenly aborted her vibration sword, stepping in an odd gait. Shifting her body aside, she reassembled her sword style and counterattacked!


    A sword technique from the Observer''s guidance��Mikkiri!


    ng!


    The wooden swords collided with a metallic ng. Leone was about to say something when her expression dramatically changed!


    Ding ding ding ding��


    Rapid clinks rang out as a shimmering scale mail emerged around Leone. Five moonlight threads struck her chest, waist, thighs, rippling the mail.


    "What spirit is that...?"


    "Can''t tell, but definitely not a sword spirit. It''s a light spirit!"


    "Sonya just became a sorcerer days ago. How does she have that spirit? Did the Hidden Hands Swordsaint really practice light magics?"


    "No way she got it from the Virtual World so quickly right? She just entered days ago!"


    As the spectators discussed Sonya''s new spirit, Leone responded to this "surprise" with fierce attacks!


    ng! ng! ng! ng!


    The relentless blows left Sonya gasping for air, her hands nearly numb.


    In her haste, she tried using Moon Silk and Mikkiri to obstruct Leone, but the Orange Dancer shattered them in an instant!


    "Sonya, to be honest, I was a little angry just now."


    Leone lectured while swinging her sword. "When you used the light trap to draw out my Feathermail, I felt insulted��a full-powered Silver Wings sorcerer like me, fighting a newbie like you, had to use a protective miracle. Nothing could be more humiliating."


    "Professor Nidhogg would surely scold me for it."


    "But I quickly realized, I have no right to be angry. You should be the angry one. You extended the sincerest challenge, seeking a passionate duel. Yet I dismissed you like an adult humoring a child, insulting you. I was in the wrong, I apologize."


    "Your light spirit woke me up. It showed me you''re not a loser like Felix��you''re a true swordsmage!"


    Sonya barely squeezed out a few words amidst the beating. "You''re too kind��"


    "No, I want to offer my most sincere apology."


    Leone enunciated. "Next, I will use my full power to answer your burning passion."


    "Watch me closely, Sonya."


    Suddenly, Leone withdrew her sword and stepped back. But before Sonya could catch her breath, Leone''s figure vanished before her eyes!


    Overwhelming danger seized Sonya''s heart. Goosebumps flooded her skin as she had no time to think, only shing right on pure instinct��


    ng!


    Sonya turned and saw only an orange afterimage!


    Shepletely lost track of Leone!


    With vision useless, Sonya could only defend by instinct!


    ng!


    Gasps of surprise sounded around Leone. "Not luck. But let''s see true skill."


    The next second, the crisis swelled like a tidal wave, a small boat before a tsunami. Just the shockwaves could flip and sink her!


    She spun to block, and miraculously saw a sh of golden sword light illuminate the hall, like divinity itselfe to punish mankind!


    ng!


    Sonya was batted flying, soaring meters into the air. She quickly riposted with a vibration sword to steady herself and barelynded on her feet. But her wrists were bruised, her body shaking uncontrobly.


    And she finally realized Leone''s move.


    "Miracle Melody Rhythm!"


    "It''s her! The true Orange Dancer! Moving so fast she''s almost invisible! Only an orange afterimage!"


    "Senior Leone mastered Rhythm Swordsaint''s famous Miracle? But that was created after the second wing, wasn''t it?"


    "It means senior isn''t far from the golden second wing!"


    Melody Rhythm, Professor Nidhogg''s swordsmage miracle. Simple effect: the first two strikes charge up, the third explodes!


    It didn''t seem like much, but with movement and stealth spirits, Melody Rhythm became a lethal Death Melody, effortlessly shattering defenses in seconds with absolute violence!


    Just like Leone steamrolling Sonya!


    ng!


    Another heavy blow sent Sonya stumbling back. Leone said calmly, "Drop your sword and it''s surrender."


    Should she surrender?


    If she didn''t, the third Melody Rhythm strike was next. Sonya knew she had no chance of blocking the charged explosion. Leone would smack her a dozen meters away in utter humiliation.


    By all reason, surrender was the optimal choice.


    Surrendering now, Sonya lost no face after fighting Leone this far, even forcing out Feathermail and Melody Rhythm.


    After this battle, no one would question Sonya''s qualifications as Professor Trotzam''s disciple.


    After this battle, Sonya would be the most renowned first year swordsmage genius.


    She already gained tremendously. Now was the time to withdraw.


    With luck, she could even befriend senior Leone. She heard Leone partied with Trinity College students, an avenue to higher connections.


    Every logical fiber knew what to do. Sonya''s ability to leave her rural home for Cailleach City was built on never letting emotions sway her reason.


    Yet right now, even with her hands numb and body ready to copse, Sonya refused to lower her sword!


    She! Would! Not! Concede!


    It wasn''t about profit or prospects, likes or dislikes!


    She simply wanted to win. She would not lose, that was all!


    Rebellious blood burned her body and mind. Defiant thoughts drowned her reason this moment. She became a sword, plunging heedlessly from life to death, mad from battle!


    Observer, you orchestrated this to enjoy my miserable defeat? I''ll tell you, I won''t serve you, you son of a bitch!


    Sonya screamed in her heart, gripping the wooden sword tighter. Tears brimmed her eyes, teeth nearly biting through her lip. Every muscle tensed as she braced for the final Melody Rhythm!

 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48


    Sigh...


    Amidst the noisy chaos of thebat hall, and the tense battle, Sonya suddenly heard a melodious sigh.


    Then her vision split into two halves.


    On one side were the faces of other students in thebat hall, some sneering, some expectant, some envious, with variousplex expressions.


    On the other side, she saw a woman who looked a lot like her.


    Although they looked alike, Sonya was certain that wasn''t her.


    The woman stood under the moonlight by ake''s surface. Suddenly, a huge horned monster charged at her from afar. As it galloped, it stirred up a violent dark torrent, rushing forth with destructive power. When it got close, it could even eclipse the moonlight, like darkness was copsing!


    Compared to it, the woman was so small and fragile!


    Yet she didn''t dodge at all, but stood her ground, summoned her spirit, and then��


    With one sword strike!


    The darkness was sliced in two, and pure moonlight shone through the crack onto her ferocious yet graceful swordsmanship!


    Sonya didn''t see her moves clearly, nor the spirit she summoned, but for some reason, Sonya felt she could mimic it.


    The urge to imitate was so strong that her body started moving on its own!


    ''You''re not giving up your sword...''


    Seeing Sonya make no moves to concede, Leone couldn''t help approving of her junior sister in her heart. Admitting defeat in a hopeless fight was the rational choice, but stubborn perseverance could give rise to miracles.


    If one didn''t even have the courage to challenge the strong in such a safe environment, how could they possibly temper a tenacious sorcerer''s heart to face real danger?


    As expected of the Hidden Hands Swordsaint''s disciple...what a good student she picked.


    Although Leone admired her in her heart, she would show no mercy.


    It wasn''t just about upholding the Rhythm Swordsaint''s reputation, but only by going all out could she properly respect a fellow swordsman!


    Miracle - Rhythm Melody - Third Movement!


    Just as Leoneunched her attack, she noticed Sonya make a strange move - she sheathed her sword.


    At the same time, many moonlight threads appeared around Sonya, each connected to her body, as if she had turned herself into a trap.


    A trap?


    A double loss?


    Many thoughts shed through Leone''s mind, but she still shed out with one strike - when faced with unknown variations, a swordsman had only one way to respond - cut through all obstacles!


    Forward, keep moving forward, never stop moving forward!


    Such was the way of survival for swordsmen!


    Golden swordlight shed brilliantly again in the hall, but the instant it touched the moonlight threads, Leone immediately sensed something was off - the Rhythm Melody actually couldn''t cut through the threads!


    No, those weren''t just moonlight threads!


    Looking closely, every thread had water flowing along it, negating the impact and granting the moonlight threads unparalleled flexibility!


    No, the water flow didn''t negate the impact!


    Leone''s eyes widened as she realized that when her swordlight tugged the threads, all the energy was channeled along them towards Sonya in her sheathed stance. The threads and Sonya formed a spring system, so that when struck by an outside force, the connected Sonya couldunch the swiftest counterattack!


    The water flow...moonlight threads...and vibration de...


    It was a counterattack miracle!


    ng!


    With a sh of Sonya''s de that could barely be seen, Leone finally reappeared, dress fluttering and hands empty.


    Patter, patter.


    As the shattered wooden training swords dropped to the floor, the crowd in thebat hall still hadn''t reacted.


    "Leone...lost?"


    The speaker''s voice trembled, as if afraid of fabricating facts and ndering the truth.


    "She lost...the Orange Dancer lost..."


    "Sonya beat Leone!"


    "What move was that? I''ve never seen such a miracle..."


    "Sonya, who just became a sorcerer a few days ago, defeated theplete silver-rank Leone!"


    "A first year overturning a fourth year!"


    "My god, am I witnessing the rise of a new Swordsaint!?"


    Amidst the shouts and cheers of shock and excitement, Leone smiled at Sonya, whose entire body was drenched in sweat and could barely stand, and asked: "What is the name of this miracle?"


    In Sonya''s eyes, the moonlitkeside swordswoman seemed to sh by again. Without any thought, the name rolled off her tongue:


    "Moon Reflection on Water."


    At this moment, Ingritt, who had been watching the match intently with a flushed face, suddenly pumped her fist and shouted loudly: "Sonya!"


    The first year swordarts students cheered in unison: "Sonya! Sonya! Sonya!"


    The Orange Dancer''s supporters also roared: "Leone! Leone! Leone!"


    In no time, only two names echoed throughout thebat hall: Sonya and Leone!


    "After today, you will be one of Swordflower College''s brightest jewels."


    Leone raised an eyebrow. "Just like me."


    Sonya pulled her lips into a smile, then her body tilted to the side as she could no longer remain standing.


    Leone reached out to support her. Their eyes met, both smiled, sparking another round of cheers.


    At the same time, on the other side.


    Felix and Lorein, who had been fighting intensely in a deadlock, also gradually stopped as they witnessed this scene, strength evaporating from their bodies.


    They exchanged a nce and let out the same wry chuckle, shaking their heads helplessly.


    The fight sparked by them didn''t end up with them as the main characters.


    For innate talents like them who attracted countless gazes, nothing was more frustrating than being ignored.


    Suddenly Lorein tossed away his wooden sword. "Stay still and let me punch you one."


    Felix froze for a second, but Lorein had already walked over and sent him flying with a punch to the face.


    "Remember this punch, Felix. Not every woman can be provoked by you." Lorein said, then turned and left.


    Still sitting on the ground, Felix looked towards the two figures bathed in the crowd''s attention and softly sighed:


    "Indeed."


    At this moment.


    Felix didn''t notice, and no one else detected, that two shadowless spectators had suddenly appeared behind Felix''s back.


    Their existence wasn''t captured in anyone''s vision in the entire hall. When they spoke, all the mor was automatically blocked out, as if the whole world consisted only of these two.


    "I remember your rare disgrace was losing to the ''Orange sh'' Leone, right?"


    Faced with the observer''s teasing, the swordswoman remained very calm. "It wasn''t that major. I surpassed her three yearster, so I stopped minding it."


    "Being able to remember it across three years..." The observer muttered, then turned to look at Felix sitting on the floor, taking out a handbook from his embrace and flipping to a page.


    "But I didn''t expect the notorious Evil Duke to have been a genius swordsman. His handbook didn''t record this experience at all."


    "It would be odd if a Felston Family member wasn''t a genius at swordsmanship."


    The swordswoman shook her head. "What you saw was the most perfect ''Reflection of Flowers in the Mirror''. Before that, I created many different versions. The ''Moon Silk'' and ''Virtual World Telescope''bination was one of them. Although not that powerful, fast, or defensive, it was the most suitable for the current Sonya."


    "True." The observer nodded. "There are no best miracles, only the most timely ones. Hehe, I look forward more and more to what Sonya without deep hatred and vengeance will be like."


    "You might as well worry about Ashe first. Today is his Blood Moon Tribunal."


    "Why worry about him?"


    The observer chuckled, but the mirthless cold chuckle made the swordswoman grip her sword hilt reflexively.


    "The Four Pirs have their eyes on him."

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49


    Shattered Lake Prison, Cafeteria


    Ashe looked at the crab roe tofu, lemon berry cheesecake, and golden pineapple juice before him. His nose was filled with the aroma of these delicacies, but he had no appetite.


    These dishes were no ordinary fare, avable only on the cafeteria''s secret menu which prisoners couldn''t ess even with high contribution points.


    Supposedly these dishes were considered premium luxury cuisine on the outside, with ingredients worth a third of an average person''s monthly sry.


    And the taste lived up to the price - Ashe suspected the chef had used magecraft, as he, a city boy worn down by MSG, almost swallowed his tongue after the first bite due to the sheer deliciousness. It was so good it made one feel content to die after eating it.


    But thinking of his impending death sapped his appetite entirely.


    The other condemned shared simr feelings. Some took a bite but ate no more, some wept as they ate, and others held their cutlery backwards, the unsharpened edges the only thing keeping them from triggering their neck chips'' anti-suicide warnings.


    Only two ate with gusto - the blue-skinned cannibal and the elf Valcas.


    They seemed unbothered by the impending Blood Moon Tribunal. The cannibal shoveled the food in with his hands, ordering te after te, while Valcas demonstrated ten ways to properly hold cutlery with elegance as if dining in a revolving restaurant atop a skyscraper.


    "Having trouble eating? Need any help?"


    The kindly voice of the guard Nago was like a whip soaked in salt water, making all the condemned shudder and quickly bend their heads to eat faster.


    Even Ashe was no exception.


    The reason the condemned were so cowed by Nago was due to the "monitoring" they had endured all afternoon, which hadpletely worn down their defiance. Facing a guard who could control their neck chips, even the most stubborn obeyed - if you didn''t obey, your head would be guided into obedience.


    To be fair, Nago hadn''t done anything too extreme to them.


    He hadn''t even touched a hair on them.


    There was no physical harm at all.


    He just made the condemned follow his schedule.


    For example, at mealtimes - if someone didn''t eat, Nago would activate the chip control system and make them eat through voicemands:


    "Open your mouth, put the food in your mouth, chew once, twice, three times, swallow..."


    Or when watching videos - if someone didn''t watch or fidgeted, Nago would turn them into a model viewer:


    "Sit properly, hands on your knees, watch the screen, blink once every five seconds."


    Or when breathing fresh air on the observation deck, Nago said their superiors wanted group photos to remember the asion, with the following requirements: tidy attire, smiling faces, good mental attitude, harmonious group atmosphere...


    Undoubtedly the condemned alone couldn''t satisfy these demands, so Nago provided a little "help".


    Ashe got off easy, just lying on the ground smiling up at the camera, but Valcas went above and beyond - sitting on the cannibal''s shoulders with his hands atop his head in fake cat ears, his gaunt, gloomy face beaming a sweet smile at the camera.


    And one shot wasn''t enough, they had to take multiples, posing from suave to chumming it up. All kinds of mental attitudes were covered.


    After being contorted into various poses by Nago, the condemned werepletely numb, just wanting to satisfy his demands quickly and be done with it. Some even thought it''d be better to just skip to the Blood Moon Tribunal.


    Destroy us quickly, we''re tired.


    Thus at Nago''s words, they immediately abandoned their morose thoughts and hurriedly ate their meal.


    At this moment, Nago''s pressure exceeded even that of the impending Tribunal.


    After all, "death" was still uncertain.


    But "a fate worse than death" was right before their eyes.


    Ashe nced around the empty cafeteria and quietly asked the man beside him, "Howe no one else is here eating dinner? I can understand skipping lunch, but don''t the others still need to eat?"


    The man next to him was named Archibald Harvey. His dark skin and curly hair made him look like aborer, but he was actually a night shift worker - a janitor who handled corpses.


    Some may wonder how disposing of corpses could warrant the death penalty. This had to do with the standards of death - in the Blood Moon Kingdom, only bodies dered dead by a licensed medic were considered corpses.


    Without a medic''s pronouncement, even if your head was off, legally you were still alive.


    Medics could truly resurrect people who had lost their heads, and many "dead" bodies could still be saved.


    Thus backroom workers like Harvey who helped underground organizations dispose of bodies didn''t get sympatheticbels like "aplice", but were seen as "extremely heinous serial killers" - he had handled hundreds of bodies, and if each body was treated as a living person, hardly any prisoner''s crimes couldpare to Harvey''s.


    But this didn''t mean Harvey was some wrongly used good man.


    Though he didn''t reveal much of his dark side in the idle afternoon chat, the facts that he was a death mage and had said "what''s good about warm women" were enough to judge his fetishes as ahead of his time for current human standards.


    However, whether someone was a bad person or not had little to do with whether they were a kind inte user. In this afternoon of shared misfortune, Ashe quickly became friendly with him.


    Harvey replied, "They all came early before 5 pm to eat dinner."


    "Huh? Why?"


    "To avoid us of course. Aside from us eight, all the other prisoners will try to stay in their rooms today. Those with surplus contribution points order delivery, those without avoid our meal times as much as possible."


    "I know, but why are they avoiding us?"


    "Traditional virtues."


    Ashe blinked.


    It wasn''t that he didn''t understand the term, just that it felt odd to describe the condemned here with it.


    Harvey exined, "First, the eight chosen ones are summoned to the cafeteria at noon, so no onees out in the morning. Though selections are based on the trial order, who knows if you might run into a guard in the hall and they add you to the trial list because they don''t like how you walk?"


    "Guards can do that?"


    "Don''t know, but do you wanna risk it?"


    "I don''t."


    "There you go." Harvey shrugged. "After noon when the eight are picked, people still don''t dare wander around. First reason is the guards of course - what if they swap you out with a lucky person because they don''t like your face? Wouldn''t you regret it enough to pop a blood vessel?"


    Ashe nodded.


    Indeed. More infuriating than your own bad luck was seeing someone benefit from it. Just thinking about it made his anger burn through his belly.


    "Second reason''s a bit superstitious. The prisoners believe that anyone seen by us ill-fated ones has a high probability of being selected for the next Blood Moon Tribunal."


    Understandable. No one wanted to catch bad luck. If you saw an unlucky person in the afternoon and couldn''t shit that night, it definitely wasn''t your body''s fault but the jinx''s gravity anomaly.


    "And the third reason is they don''t know how to face us."


    "Hm?"


    "Greet us? Encourage us? Comfort us?" Harvey wiped his mouth with a napkin. "If you were them... oh wait, Ashe you are one of the condemned. Right now, if you saw prisoners who escaped this fate, wouldn''t you feel every punctuation mark they said wasced with contempt?"


    Ashe opened and closed his mouth. On second thought that was exactly right.


    Since they knew I was ted to die and they didn''t have to, I''d definitely feel their entire beings oozed disgusting rot.


    Not just their words.


    Just seeing them breathe would make me feel mocked.


    Encouragement? Mockery!


    Comfort? Ridicule!


    Pity? Scorn!


    No matter how nice they talked, to Ashe and the others it was profanity.


    Fear of death created a pathetic thick wall between the eight and the rest.


    "So on the day of the Tribunal, all prisoners voluntarily stay in their rooms. It protects themselves as well as the condemned."


    Harvey looked at Ashe. "If you survive, you must also uphold this tradition on the next Blood Moon. It''s the only kindness we can and must insist on. However..."


    "However what?"


    "I read the news reports on you." Harvey shrugged. "Frankly, you''re the most likely to die tonight."


    "It''s not randomly killing one person?"


    Ashe was nervous. When he learned the Tribunal randomly chose one out of eight to execute, he guessed it must be a random ritual - no need to pick eight and draw one if it wasn''t random.


    "It''s random, but not that random. Sometimes more than one person dies... You really haven''t seen the Tribunal before?"


    "I really haven''t! I don''t know the rules at all!"


    Harveyughed. "Then you''ll find outter... I was deeply moved when I first saw the Tribunal as a child. I never imagined there was such a wonderful form of entertainment in this world. I won''t tell you the truth. The most despicable act for a death mage is prophecy - exploring the unknown is a mage''s greatest joy, and death the greatest mystery."


    Ashe clicked his tongue in frustration, but also felt doubtful. "If you''re certain it''s me, why are you guys nervous?"


    Harvey shrugged. "Because the Tribunal isn''t fixed, sometimes there are changes that make the prisoners really anxious, identally killing themselves... You''re right, once I get there I''ll just close my eyes and lie down to sleep. As long as I''m sure I won''t be the one-in-eight, I definitely won''t die if I don''t do anything."


    After Harvey''s words, even eating the crab roe tofu made Ashe nervous.


    Can it be? Am I really done for?


    Is there really no chance left?


    Virtual world exploration was going so smoothly, I drew the Virtual World Telescope just this morning. Maybe I could gather the spirits for the Myriad shes miracle tonight...


    My swordswoman and I were also getting stronger. The mysteries of the mage world were unveiling before me...


    I had just defeated Valcas and foiled Sylin''s schemes...


    I''m still developing! Can''t you give me more time!


    Ashe felt like a DPS gambling on gear drops only to suddenly be dragged into a raid.


    Victory was on the horizon, but he was being strung along for a pittance in the present.


    He suddenly recalled his boss''s old social media post - life isn''t cooking, waiting until you have all ingredients before starting. When you see yourself get sprinkled with cumin, you should realize you''ve be an ingredient - who could''ve guessed the boss announced switch from 4-day to 996 work weeks the day after posting that?


    "Dinner time is up. Wipe your mouths, go to the bathroom for personal hygiene. Gather in the central hall in 30 minutes."


    Note Nago wasn''t manding" but "inputting instructions" - everyone simultaneously wiped their mouths with napkins before standing to go to the bathroom en masse.


    Before Ashe entered the bathroom, he heard Nago''sst instruction:


    "7:45 pm, arrive at the Blood Moon venue on time to await the show''s start."

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50


    Caimon City, Red Mist Institute.


    "The Shattered Lake Prison has already sent notice regarding your matter. Since she has decided your punishment, the Institute will naturally not go against her demands," said the white-coated red-eyed young schr calmly as he looked at the bloodied fishman before him. "Lorens, how goes your Blood Embrace progress?"


    The fishman lowered his head and said, "I''ve condensed two drops of silver source blood and two drops of golden source blood, but I haven''t made any progress on the third drop of silver source blood for over ten days now...this is probably the limit for a student like me."


    "Just a bit more and you could have condensed the rainbow source blood, what a pity. But don''t be too discouraged, who knows, you may have a chance to purify your bloodline in the future," the red-eyed schr first sighed, then became serious, "So you made sure you didn''t need to stay in Shattered Lake Prison to perform the Blood Embrace ceremony, which is why you recklessly stole and peeked at someone else''s spell form?"


    The fishman remained silent, not refuting him.


    "You got lucky this time, running into someone soft-hearted. You won''t be so lucky next time," the young schr sighed. "Stay obediently in the Institute doing research for the next ten years. Don''t participate in any academic activities during that time. After ten years, the one you offended will likely have condensed the Seven Color Wings, so even if you wanted to see her, it would be impossible."


    "Yes."


    "Go rest, I''ll arrange your office tomorrow," the young schr tapped the wooden table. "Remember to organize your learning achievements and give me a report in a couple days."


    "Thank you teacher, goodbye."


    The fishman respectfully left the office and strode quickly out of the institute.


    It waste night outside, the blood moon hung high in the night sky. There weren''t many people in the institute campus. Lorens'' footsteps grew faster and faster. As he passed a tree, he suddenly punched it!


    p!


    The tree trunk caved in deeply where he had punched it, and the bite wounds on his fingers split open again, even his scales cracked and fell off.


    His hand hurt terribly, his whole body hurt, but these physical wounds were nothingpared to the invisible wound in his heart that stabbed at Lorens!


    He was the medical mage thrown out of Shattered Lake Prisonst night [176].


    His original name was Lorens Tauton, a fishman of the blue scales tribe, a schr at the Red Mist Institute.


    After spending a night and a day barely escaping from the jaws of the sharks, he finally made it back to Caimon City. As soon as he crawled ontond, he hurried straight to the Institute to ask about his future - if [222] wanted to pursue this to the end, not only would the Institute revoke his schr status, they might even take back the ''sacred blood'' in his body!


    Lorens had also considered just running away.


    But the chip scan at the security checkpoint instantly dashed that foolish thought.


    Unless he went to the ck market and spent a fortune for a mage to remove his chip, then lived as a feral creature in the wild, cutting himself off from society, there was no ce that would harbor a criminal like him in this era of ubiquitous chipping.


    In the Blood Moon Kingdom, if you offended the Sacred Bloodline, you only had two paths left: beg for mercy, or wait for judgement.


    Fortunately, [222]''s punishment ended there. Lorens still had a bright future ahead of him, still the most promising young schr of the Red Mist Institute, still able to live for one or two hundred years.


    But it was precisely because he no longer had to pay the price, that Lorens felt even more indignant and aggrieved!


    Perhaps others would see it as merciful,


    But he only felt deeply insulted!


    But the other party did have the qualifications to look down on Lorens. As the teacher said, in ten years the other party would surely attain the Three Wings Saint domain, while Lorens was struggling to even get the Golden Two Wings.


    They were both of the Sacred Bloodline, yet the difference in their bloodline talents was like heaven and earth!


    Yes, bloodline!


    Lorens was originally just a fishman from an impoverished upbringing district orphanage. But due to his exceptional learning abilities, he tested into Caimon City University, and was recruited by the Red Mist Institute before even graduating, obtaining the qualification to undergo the ''blood transfusion ceremony'' and be one of the coveted Sacred Bloodline!


    The Sacred Bloodline, like the Moonshadow, could not propagate through normal mating rituals. The only way the Sacred Bloodline grew their numbers was by absorbing other races through blood transfusion.


    Although all races took on the same traits like crimson eyes after the transfusion, in theory the Sacred Bloodline was not a racial concept, but a cultural concept - they all recognized themselves as a higher race that had transcended the lower races.


    There were many benefits to bing the Sacred Bloodline. The biggest benefit was of course that their bodiespletely transcended the limits of lifespan, remaining forever young and undying, practically an immortal race.


    However, even though their bodies did not age, their souls still had a lifespan limit. For example, a human of the Sacred Bloodline could onlyst about 150 years before their soul dissipated.


    Aside from this, the Sacred Bloodline had another benefit that drew mages to them like flies to honey: blood healing!


    By drinking blood, the Sacred Bloodline could elerate the recovery of their body and soul!


    The reason mages had to wait many days to re-enter the Virtual World after dying in it was to replenish their soul energy. The Sacred Bloodline who could replenish their soul energy through blood healing, could greatly shorten their death cooldown and increase the frequency at which they explored the Virtual World.


    Blood healing and undying were how the Sacred Bloodline established their ruling status in the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    With such outstanding racial advantages, the disadvantages of the Sacred Bloodline were also severe.


    Aside from having to obey many taboos, the biggest downside was: mages could not absorb arcane energy in the Virtual World.


    That''s right, they could not absorb arcane energy!


    The blood transfusion ceremony essentially created a miraculous deep fusion between the soul and blood. That was why the body attained the undying trait, and why drinking blood healed the body.


    But because of this, an iplete soul was unable to absorb arcane energy in the Virtual World, essentially destroying a mage''s prospects.


    But the Sacred Bloodline mages had long ago devised a solution. This was why Lorens had gone to Shattered Lake Prison as a medical mage - newly born members of the bloodline had to use death row prisoners as offerings to conduct the ''Blood Embrace ceremony'' and condense source blood!


    Source blood served as the medium to absorb arcane energy in ce of the soul. Based on the level, from lowest to highest, there was silver source blood, golden source blood, rainbow source blood, and colorless source blood, corresponding to the four types of arcane energy in the Virtual World.


    Every three drops of lower source blood could be synthesized into one drop of higher source blood. And the Sacred Bloodline had to possess the matching or higher level source blood in order to absorb the corresponding arcane energy. For example, silver source blood absorbed silver arcane energy, golden source blood absorbed golden arcane energy.


    If they wanted to summon a spirit one level higher, they had to possess source blood one level higher!


    A member of the Sacred Bloodline without golden source blood could not even summon a two-wing spirit, naturally they could not advance to a two-wing mage either.


    This was also why the teacher felt Lorens was so pitiable - condensing just one more drop of silver source blood would have allowed him to synthesize the rainbow source blood, and the gates of the Three Wings Saint domain would open for him!


    And now, with only the golden source blood, Lorens'' future prospects were limited to the Golden Two Wings.


    Only when he managed to purify his bloodline and condense the rainbow source blood would he have a chance at entering the Three Wings Saint domain!


    Additionally, the higher the level of source blood, the greater the efficiency of absorbing arcane energy.


    In the Sea of Knowledge,pared to normal mages, one drop of silver source blood only had a base absorption efficiency of 30%. Each additional drop increased it by 10%.


    This was why the teacher said ten years would be enough for Lorens to hide - Lorens had a total of 2 drops of golden source blood and 2 drops of silver source blood, adding up to 3 + 3 + 2 = 8 drops of silver source blood, for a total absorption efficiency of 100%.


    Whereas the new schrs of the four major Institutes could at least condense one drop of colorless source blood, synthesized from 3 * 3 * 3 = 27 drops of silver source blood, for an absorption efficiency of 290%!


    A whole three times more! Even if this was only a temporary advantage in the Sea of Knowledge, umting it over ten years'' time would still allow the other party to grow into someone Lorens could only gaze up at from afar.


    For that person, Lorens was merely a fart not even worth paying attention to, much less harboring resentment towards.


    How could a future Three Wings Saint possibly care about the petty grudges of a Golden Two Wings?


    Nothing made Lorens more furious than this - perhaps he was trash, perhaps no one cared, perhaps others ridiculed him, but for this fishman who had struggled his way from an impoverished district to a prestigious institute, dignity was the only wealth he had left.


    Without dignity, he would truly have nothing.

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51


    p.


    As he turned the corner, Lorens bumped into a swiftly walking human schr.


    The two steadied themselves from the slight collision. The human schr''s white robe was stained with spots of blood. His expression darkened for a moment when he saw this, but when he looked up and saw it was Lorens, he controlled his expression and took a step back.


    "Lorens? Back from Shattered Lake Prison? Sorry about bumping into you just now."


    "It''s nothing. Where are you headed now?"


    "The tavern. It''s the 15th today. The Blood Moon Tribunal is always more exciting when watched together."


    "Haven''t you seen enough from working at the prison?"


    The other let out augh. "Did you see the list of prisoners announced this morning? Guess who''s on it - Valcas Uhl, the elven schr from Caimon University!"


    Valcas?


    Lorens was slightly surprised. Wasn''t that the patient he had treated yesterday...


    "Want to join us? Everyone hasn''t seen you in a while. You showing up at the tavern will definitely surprise them��"


    "Sure."


    The schr''s expression clearly stiffened somewhat. He didn''t seem to expect the usually aloof Lorens to actually agree. He had only invited as a courtesy...


    "Um... then follow me. Oh, do you want to change your clothes first, treat your injuries?"


    Lorens looked at his blood-stained self. "Don''t they serve blood wine at the tavern? That can be used to treat me directly. Or would I be improper entering the tavern like this, would you all mind?"


    The human schr immediately shook his head. "No, of course not! I actually think it looks quite cool on you, very fashionable. Must turn a lot of heads walking down the street like that..."


    Lorens sneered inwardly.


    As the only lizardman at the research institute, how could he not know the other schrs secretly discriminated against and excluded him?


    But he didn''t care in the past, focused only on pursuing strength. Being excluded meant more peace for him, never participating in any group activities.


    Besides, with the restrictions of the "Racial Equality Act", these people could only keep their grievances bottled up inside no matter how much ill-will they held.


    On the surface, they even had to maintain an attitude of ''I respect you very much'' and ''I don''t discriminate against you''.


    Otherwise, if Lorens caught them at it, reporting to the Race Committee would ruin their careers for life.


    But Lorens was in an exceptionally bad mood tonight. Faced with his colleague''s insincere invitation, he suddenly had a mischievous impulse to y along. So he readily agreed.


    But Lorens soon regretted it.


    He had never been to a tavern before.


    The neon lights in blue and purple, the sultry, melodious music, the schrs of the sacred bloodline clinking sses, every detail made Lorens feel very ufortable, even nervous enough for his skin to start secreting mucus.


    "This is... Lorens?"


    "Congrattions to Lorens onpleting the Blood Embrace ceremony anding back!"


    "Come, everyone, let''s drink to that!"


    After the initial mor, everyone returned to their own circles. Even the schr who brought Lorens didn''t show any intention of introducing him to his circle, directly slipping away instead.


    Lorens was relieved though. He found an empty table and sat down, ordering a Mncholy Blues. Soon the bartender brought over a cocktail mixing deep blue with crimson.


    "The Mncholy Blues you ordered, 20% human infant blood, 30% lizardman infant blood. Please enjoy."


    Lorens drank it all in one go, licking his lips. The rotting wounds on them rapidly started healing.


    He observed the tavern, feeling it wasn''t much different from the fishman bars in the slums - there was a pregnant woman drinking at one end of the bar, at another booth a beastman couple were procreating, some had overdosed on moon sugar, writhing and rolling on the ground like dogs.


    But the discussion topics here were different from regr taverns outside. The people here all talked about "have you produced any results", "we''ll ughter the administration someday", "this is the final year for promotion or dismissal". All very depressing adult matters that made drinking unpleasant.


    A shadow also passed Lorens'' crimson fish eyes - now that he hadpleted the Blood Embrace ceremony, he would also have to sign a young researcher contract with the institute.


    Based on his current source blood quality and the institute''s atmosphere, he would most likely have to participate in the "promote or dismiss"petition, producing the required results within the time limit to be promoted to associate professor. Otherwise, he would be fired and expelled from the institute, sent to the Heresy Court or forced to start his own business. In any case, he would have no prospects of advancing further at the institute.


    But the problem was there were only so many associate professor positions, and dozens of schr candidatespeting... He heard of an institute in Outer Sea City that was even more outrageous, with 30 researcherspeting for 0 associate professor positions. When the 20 year trial period ended, they dered everyone unqualified and just sent the schrs out to society after squeezing their 20 years ofbor out of them.


    Lorens drank a mouthful of liquor and lowered his head, flipping the drink menu over to the other side. He saw the familiar tavern ads on it. There was a price list for organ harvesting from members of the sacred bloodline, with the recovery institution being the ''Red Fog Organ Trading Company''.


    "Humans of the sacred bloodline: hearts 80 silvers, lungs 50 silvers, kidneys 40 silvers, eyes 30 silvers..."


    "Lizardmen of the sacred bloodline: hearts 44 silvers, lungs 23 silvers..."


    The organ recovery prices for the sacred bloodline were clearly lower than market price. Naturally, this was because after transforming into the sacred bloodline, their organs also mutated. So sacred bloodline organs could only be sold to the same bloodline, a small market.


    Besides, the sacred bloodline could recover through blood therapy. Demand for organ trade was low, so prices were low too.


    If it was normal races, the prices would be at least 2-3 times higher. But normal races would take far too long to regrow organs, greatly impacting lives.


    When he was most desperate, Lorens had sold some of his gills and thousands of ml of blood to earn a bit on the side.


    Lorens reconsidered - ''Now that I''ve lost my prison job, the institute stipend will be much lower. Things are getting harder for Granny Yen''s ce, I should sell some organs first to send money over...''


    Granny Yen was the person in charge of the Lizardman Orphanage, and had raised Lorens.


    The Lizardman Orphanage was one of the few willing to ept fishmen.


    After Lorens grew up, he would send about half his sry to Granny Yen, to alleviate the orphanage''s financial pressures. After all, if it went bankrupt, hundreds more lizardman fry would die each year.


    Free economy, free market. Abandoned infants with no orphanage would just have to reincarnate.


    He didn''t have any hobbies anyway, didn''t like trading stocks, buying things. With lodging and food covered at the institute, the money couldn''t buy anything good, might as well use it to give the little fishmen at the orphanage better meals.


    Just as Lorens was pondering which organ to sell, the central area of the tavern suddenly projected an octagonal light screen, allowing all patrons to see the live content.


    "It''s starting, it''s starting!"


    "Boss Snake,e open the betting!"


    "Hey, when can we have the ''Battle Royale'' mode again? That was so thrilling to watch."


    "I think the ''Computer'' mode is the best. Seeing the electric currents jump out from their eyeballs is just too good."


    "It''s not some festival today, how can there be a special mode... Don''t dream, it''ll just be the ssic mode tonight. I love watching the ssic mode, ordinary yet still stimting."


    Even Lorens who wasn''t very interested in the Blood Moon Tribunal couldn''t help but watch when the screen lit up.


    The Blood Moon Tribunal begins.

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52


    Ashe opened his eyes and found himself already outside Shattered Lake Prison.


    He had really left.


    Because even his light screen had popped up a prompt, "You have now left the Shattered Lake Prison special service area. Wee to the Caimon service area. Reply ''KM'' under this message to receive thetest Caimon City tourist information."


    But he had notpletely left.


    After all, Shattered Lake Prison was just ten steps behind him.


    It didn''t seem like much, but as mentioned before, the main reason Shattered Lake Prison could be a luxurious hotel for death row inmates was its absolute istion.


    And this absolute istion was built on the fact that Shattered Lake Prison was a prison on the waters of an isted ind sea.


    So when Ashe looked down, he could see the blood moon''s reflection in the pitch-ckke surface dozens of meters below, beautifully dreamlike and magnificently humbling.


    This was when one would usually feelpelled to express some thoughts and feelings about the scenic view,


    However, all Ashe feltpelled to do was tremble in his legs.


    After all, when one stands dozens of meters above the sea surface, and the only ce to stand is a one square meter tform, you''d shake too.


    "Ah! Ahhhhhhh!"


    Not far away, a death row inmate let out a shrill scream: "How did I get here? Let me go back, let me go back!"


    "Didn''t I just walk out of the dining room?"


    "The Blood Moon Tribunal isn''t here!"


    "Comint! I''m going toin to the council, you are disregarding the human rights of death row inmates!"


    As the death row inmates shouted loudly, a familiar yet dreaded voice sounded from behind: "Ladies and gentlemen, death row inmates, good evening, it is 8pm Caimon time, I am tonight''s supervisor, Nago McMin."


    The death row inmates looked back to find that it was the Tide Viewing tform. The tform was now brightly lit, Nago stood at the edge of the tform, but he did not look at the inmates, instead at the six burning eyes floating in the air.


    Although it was the first time seeing them, Ashe guessed by instinct that those six eyes were this world''s cameras.


    "As you can see, the Blood Moon Tribunal has begun. Viewers who wish to check the profiles of death row inmates can focus on the inmate''s face, to change viewing angles, focus on the different camera eyes on the left side. Everyone can directly watch this trial by silently chanting ''Caimon Channel One'', and the rules of this trial will be on the right side of the screen."


    Everyone...


    Ashe''s mind moved, silently chanting ''Caimon Channel One'', and his light screen did show the live broadcast.


    He could even see in the broadcast a person tilting his head back sneaking a peek, looking a bit silly - it was himself.


    "The mode this time is the new mode ''Confessions on the Tightrope'', specific rules are as follows."


    Nago calmly said: "First, it is currently the spawning season for reverse current Finger Sharks in Shattered Lake. ording to records from previous years, there are thirty-five thousand Finger Sharks gathered in Shattered Lake now. Any creature that falls into Shattered Lake will be shredded to blood foam and disappear."


    "The Fishing Association hereby reminds that due to the rampant and obtainable nature of Finger Sharks this month, Finger Shark points will temporarily not be counted for this month''s fishingpetition. Members please take note."


    As Nago spoke, he kicked a dead pig by his foot into theke.


    The moment the dead pig hit the water with a ssh, hundreds of finger-sized small sharks swarmed over, and the surface seemed to boil.


    Two secondster, the pig''s corpse had disappeared.


    Not just blood and flesh, even the bones were gone!


    Seeing this, Ashe''s legs didn''t just tremble, they also went a little soft.


    "Second, the weather mages have announced tonight is a night of storm spirit riots. Northeast Caimon is temporarily a no-fly zone. The Sorcerer Association reminds that storm-type sorcerers should take safety precautions tonight and remove all metal objects before entering the virtual world."


    Nago took out an iron sheet and flew it upwards.


    Snap!


    A sudden p of thunder on a clear night split the sky, smashing the iron sheet to smithereens!


    "Third, when the voting starts, the ''Executioner'' will generate on the tform where the death row inmates currently are."


    "This time, the Executioner has been enhanced with the ''Purgatorial me'', which will burn around the Executioner without causing physical damage, but will severely scorch the souls of the wicked and burn away their evil delusions."


    "But don''t worry, death row inmates, as long as you are innocent or truly repentant, you can directly ignore the effects of the Purgatorial me."


    I see, so either jump down and be fish food, or stay put and die in agony... Hey wait a minute!


    Ashe suddenly realized a loophole.


    He wasn''t the real Ashe Heath, what sins did he have!


    He almost got too immersed. He was an innocent otherworldly soul!


    "Fourth, there is a steel wire in front of each death row inmate, extending to the safe tform in the distance, on which various weapons have been ced."


    When the lights shone over, Ashe saw that there really was a thin steel wire under his feet that looked like it could easily cut a person in half.


    And at the end of this hundred-meter wire was therge tform with an array of weapons ced on it, swords, spears, guns, even cannons.


    "Fifth, the familiar Blood Moon rule. When the voting ends, the death row inmate with the most votes will have the honor of obtaining tonight''s redemption quota; if anyone gets 50% of votes prematurely, the voting will end directly and proceed to the execution phase."


    "Each vote will be the power of the Executioner. The Executioner, empowered by the righteous feelings of countless people, will execute the death row inmate and personally send his soul to the Blood Moon Paradise, so that the supremely benevolent Blood Moon Archon can forgive his sins and transgressions."


    "That concludes the rules for this Blood Moon Tribunal."


    Nago turned to face the death row inmates, snapped his fingers and announced loudly:


    "Now, Central Control, please remove the restrictions on the eight sinners awaiting salvation."


    Right after Nago finished speaking, multiple notifications popped up on Ashe''s light screen:


    "Virtual World ess Allowed"


    "Arcane Energy Output Allowed"


    "Attack Restrictions Lifted"


    Tens of such notifications continuously popped up, plus the feeling of relief throughout his body, like cleared constipation. This was exactly what the medic [222] mentioned, the only time death row inmates regain full freedom: during the Blood Moon Tribunal, the prison lifts most restrictions on inmates!


    "Sinners, please make an effort to repent. Under the moonlight, repentance is the only path to salvation."


    Nago smiled slightly, spreading his hands to loudly proim:


    "The voting session begins! Esteemed viewers, cast your solemn votes, let them be the power to uphold justice, the kindness to redeem sinners!"


    "Now is the time for judgement!"


    Ashe suddenly felt a chill, as if the surrounding temperature had abruptly dropped ten degrees.


    He lowered his head to see the blood moon''s glow on the tform twisting, changing, morphing into a crimson, hideous, spiked monster that appeared behind Ashe!


    Its body was entwined with pale blue mes, illuminating Ashe''s frightened face!


    Ashe instinctively took a step back.


    But as he retreated, his heel stepped on the edge!


    If not for hastily adjusting his center of gravity, he would have fallen straight into the finger sharks'' midnight snack!


    Why me... Just as Ashe made thement of every unlucky person, the information that popped up on the top left corner of the live broadcast on his light screen answered his confusion:


    "Current Leader: Ashe Heath, 49 votes."

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53


    Red Mist Tavern.


    "Eh? Boss Snake, why is his payout rate so high, and there''s no cap limit? Aren''t you afraid of losing badly?"


    The customers looked at the betting for the ''death penalty'' in the local channel and found that the payout rate for the ''favorites'' was surprisingly 1.65 - based on past experience, the payout for favorites was at most 1.0001 or even lower, and there was a cap limit per person.


    Since everyone could basically judge who would die each Tribunal after looking through the death row inmates'' information, Boss Snake certainly wouldn''t give away money for free.


    For popr bets in gambling, it was often things like ''difference between highest and lowest votes'', ''can highest votes exceed 150,000 in 15 minutes'', ''will there be inmate brawls in 5 minutes'' - categories with very high unpredictability.


    Boss Snake next to the bar counter stuck out his tongue and hissed, "Yesss, I''m losing badly, what if you all bet on him, I''d be in trouble ss~"


    A customerughed, "Ah, I won''t take Boss Snake''s money, I just want to lose for fun, eh~ I just want to bet on the one with the lowest payout and limited amount."


    Lawrence looked at the betting in the light screen, wondering if he should y a few hands - he hadn''t touched gambling for a whole year plus in Shattered Lake Prison.


    Almost anyone could open these local bets, there were no restrictions, but there was one prerequisite: the bookie had to first deposit arge sum in the Caimon Commercial Bank, otherwise the bank would not provide the betting service for the gambling, which also effectively prevented malicious incidents of bookies suffering huge losses and welching.


    After browsing through the ''highest votes'' payout rates of the eight death row inmates, Lawrence already knew who would most likely be the redeemer of this Blood Moon Tribunal.


    The lower the payout rate, the more certain everyone thought he would definitely die.


    Generally speaking, the one with the lowest payout was often the ''favorites'' that could be judged just from the information. But this time...


    "Interesting..."


    Lawrence smiled and went all in on the bet for the person with the lowest payout rate.


    ...


    ...


    Ashe finally understood.


    Why Harvey could be certain that tonight''s "random" draw would have a high chance ofnding on him - so the so-called random draw was an audience vote!


    The death row inmate with the most votes could win the grand prize of a trip to heaven!


    The executioner would send you straight to heaven!


    So why was Ashe certain to die as long as it was an audience vote?


    Because Ashe was the hot news topic these past few days!


    He was the ''monthly hot pick'', the ''cover character''!


    The news recently had all been focused on Ashe Heath''s rise of the heretical Waterism, exined in depth in vivid detail, even Ashe himself read it with great interest, one could imagine most of the audience was not unfamiliar with Ashe now.


    What was audience appeal?


    This was audience appeal!


    Since you''re so familiar, then we''ll pick you!


    Seeing his own vote count rapidly increasing, while the crimson ''executioner'' in front also grew increasingly huge and sinister, almost upying most of the tform space, squeezing Ashe to the edge with both heels over the side.


    Every cell in his body was screaming at him to run!


    Just as Ashe was about to lose his grip, a sudden shriek came from beside him!


    "Ahhhhhhhhh!"


    The cannibal inmate next to him screamed as if scalded by an iron, a shriek as shrill as a little girl''s!


    It seemed this cannibal was singed by the executioner''s dim blue mes, and he shrank back to the edge, hands clutching the steel wires, looking pitiful, weak and helpless!


    At this time the other inmates also cried out, each seemingly in excruciating pain.


    Though there were no visible wounds, they looked as if nails were hammered into their flesh.


    One goblin even walked on the wires despite his light body,


    They would rather risk falling into the sea than stand with the executioner!


    Was it that painful?


    Although he had always known they were on death row, because of the chips restricting the inmates'' actions, Ashe did not have a clear understanding of this till now.


    Only at this moment did he feel a sense of superiority welling up.


    Oh my, how shrill your screams are, how terrifying death row inmates, not like me, I don''t feel any pain at all~


    "Illegal...illegal!"


    One death row inmate burned by the Purgatorial me bit through his lips and yelled loudly, "This is a vition of human rights, the Blood Moon Tribunal cannot harm us during the voting!"


    "You''re torturing us, trampling our dignity, using our torment as a means!"


    "Human rights organizations, council members watching the Tribunal, quickly lodgeints, stop them!"


    "That''s right, aren''t we supposed to be safe during the voting phase!? Shattered Lake Prison vited the Tribunal''s rules!"


    "Stop this Tribunal now! Hurry!"


    Ashe also found it strange, because from various sources, the Tribunals mostly only killed one person, the other seven could return to prison unharmed.


    In fact, the vast majority of prisoners Ashe had met were survivors of the Tribunal, some were even frequent veterans who had dared the dangerous edges many times.


    Moreover, the Blood Moon Nation was very concerned with race rights and human rights (seemingly), and would never allow any punitive torture using humans as means.


    Even interrogational torture had been unified into ''memory retrieval''.


    Criminals would not suffer any torture from capture to imprisonment.


    You could choose to say or not say, we would not infringe on your human rights one bit.


    Of course, whether ''memory retrieval'' counted as human rights infringement was another matter.


    So the death row inmates'' doubts about Shattered Lake Prison were somewhat legally grounded - their current circumstances were undoubtedly purely torture, not aligned with the Tribunal''s redemptive spirit, it was sphemy against the Blood Moon Sovereign, a regression from equal rights!


    "No."


    Nago shook his head, "The rules for this Tribunal have been approved by the council, human rights organizations, various racial rights groups, there are no inhumane arrangements. Although your current circumstances seem dangerous, as long as you stay put and do nothing, you will not suffer any harm."


    "Ah!" Just then, the beastman death row inmate''s executioner suddenly grew a bit, singeing the beastman''s skin with the Purgatorial me, making this big and burly beastman who looked as hardy as iron scream like a little girl.


    "You call this no harm!?" The death row inmates trembled with rage, "You...you damned natural born hybrid of cannibals and goblins, only able to spew shit like those green-skinned garbage with boar tusks!?"


    "Despicable scum raised on shit in the downtown orphanage!"


    "Defiled virgin by a goblin gigolo!"


    Only now did the death row inmates remember they had unlocked all their shackles, no longer bound by rules of racial equality, proper speech, and immediately exploded with exuberant fighting spirit, seeming to spew out in one breath all the foulnguage they had swallowed these days, managing to cram regional discrimination, racial discrimination, gender discrimination in one sentence, even Ashe couldn''t help but lend an ear.


    Until he heard Harvey yell out beside him:


    "Dimwit believer of the Four Pirs!"


    Ashe looked at Harvey, although he wasn''t, but he still felt it was directed at him, so he also shouted:


    "Disgusting necromancer who sleeps hugging corpses!"


    Harvey red back, Ashe red back unyielding, then heard the other ask in a lowered voice:


    "How did you know?"


    "Huh?"


    He wasn''t pushed into the sea by the executioner, instead this line frightened Ashe so much he nearly stumbled back three steps into the sea.

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54


    The prisoners soon stopped their cursing - because they realized that whenever they swore, the executioners behind them would swiftly swell and growrger.


    After all, only dim-witted people end up as death row convicts. They had forgotten that hundreds of thousands of Caimon City residents were watching them curse!


    The audience thought: Good! Curse more! The fouler and more vulgar the better! We''ll reward you with a ticket and help you die and reincarnate sooner!


    Once the scene quieted down, Nago said leisurely: "You feel pain not because we arranged it, but because of your own problems. As I said, as long as you are truly repentant, you will not be affected by the Purgatorial me. The Purgatorial me burns sin and scorches evil."


    "Also, not everyone will feel pain. Look at Mr. Ashe Heath and Mr. Valcas Uhl - they are unaffected by the Purgatorial me. Please learn from them."


    The agonized crowd only just realized that Ashe and Valcas were almost glued to the executioners, yet the churning Purgatorial me passed through their bodies and they still stood ramrod straight.


    "If you feel pain, you should take this opportunity to ept the Purgatorial me''s cleansing and repent your sins, making a new start." Nago didn''t seem to be mocking them - it was as if he was genuinely advising them to repent: "The Blood Moon Sovereign and Caimon City residents will see your sincerity."


    "I admit my wrongs, I admit..." Harvey wailed in pain, tears and snot running down his gaunt face twisted like woodgrain. More than half his body hung outside the tform, his hands clutching the steel wire cut down to the bone.


    But even such danger, such torment, couldn''tpare to a single lick of the Purgatorial me''s mes!


    "You must thoroughly recognize how unforgivable your past mistakes were,pletely sever ties with your former sinful self, in order to obtain the Blood Moon''s forgiveness."


    Nago''s mouth curled up: "Of course, there is also an easy way: just continuously endure the Purgatorial me''s burning. Your sinful soul will burn to ashes, naturally leaving behind a virtuous soul."


    Although it sounded far-fetched, Ashe didn''t feel Nago would lie, at least not during this live show watched by the entire nation.


    This meant the Purgatorial me could split personalities, using tremendous continuous pain to divide the death row convicts into a virtuous persona, then ruthlessly torment the original persona to death!


    Upon hearing this, almost all the death row convicts wished they could hang from the steel wire.


    Compared to death, they were even more unable to ept their souls beingpletely destroyed!


    "I understand...I understand..."


    Ashe looked towards Harvey mumbling to himself beside him. Harvey sobbed and his mouth twitched. "We''re all done for this time..."


    Ashe curiously asked: "What are you afraid of? Didn''t you say only one person dies each Blood Moon Tribunal? Just endure for now and it''ll pass."


    "Not every Blood Moon Tribunal has the same oue. This time we met with an asional exception." Harvey cried as ifughing. "I just remembered, old man Ryan said the Andreim faction would have an important death recently, and many ministers and officials would be purged..."


    "What does political turmoil have to do with the Blood Moon Tribunal?"


    "Do you think a serial killer, or a minister exposed for corruption and graft, would be more entertaining at the Blood Moon Tribunal?"


    Ashe understood.


    In terms of entertainment from watching deaths, it was directly proportional to the convict''s prior social status.


    "Political strife in the Blood Moon Empire is most cruel. Which minister or official that could move up wasn''t bloody? The winner takes all, the loser faces trial, draining theirst ounce of social value. It''s both an exnation to the public, and a warning to other officials - warning them to be even more covert and leave no evidence..."


    "You''re quite knowledgeable."


    "Who do you think the corpses I handled before belonged to?"


    "But what does that have to do with the Blood Moon Tribunal suddenly killing more evenly?"


    Harvey looked extremely aggrieved. "The dorms are full."


    Ashe was taken aback, mentally sprouting countless herbs.


    That made perfect sense!


    Since the dorms were full, they had to kill some people to make room for the fallen ministers to move in. It was such a realistic yet darklyedic ruthless logic.


    Because the prison was overcrowded, they had to die.


    How absurd, how cruel, how bluntly logical.


    "Urgh!"


    Just then, Harvey gritted his teeth and hung fully from the steel wire, swaying forward towards the main tform.


    Each swing scraped his palms on the wire, quickly skinning them to the bloody meat and exposing teeth-clenchingly terrifying hand bones. But Ashe clearly saw that his bones weren''t themon pale white, but gave off a silvery sheen!


    After scraping his palms bare, Harvey''s climbing speed visibly increased. Even as the wire grated his hand bones with a nails-on-chalkboard screech, he seemed unfazed by any pain, his expression very rxed!


    It was a spirit!


    A spirit used to enhance bone defense?


    The other death row convicts also scrambled to grab the wire and flee. Some had strong skin defense, the wire only leaving a red mark on their skin.


    Some excelled in agility, running directly along the wire.


    Most bizarre was the cannibal - as a temperature-type sorcerer, he rapidly lowered the temperature to coat the wire in a thickyer of ice, then swung his body and slid across!


    The prison really was full of talented people, eloquent speakers, and performers of all sorts of tricks.


    Compared to these hastily escaping death row convicts, Ashe who was unaffected by the Purgatorial me naturally had more time to think.


    He turned and looked towards Nago standing on the viewing tform at the back.


    Noticing his gaze, Nago sped his hands behind his back and smiled slightly. "A great idea - instead of struggling with the wires under the Blood Moon rules, why not break the rules and jump backwards into the prison?"


    "Oh!"


    The Red Mist Tavern patrons simultaneously realized: "Jump backwards into the prison to dodge all this and escape the Blood Moon Tribunal!"


    "Aren''t there any other traps?"


    "Letting the death row convicts escape torture so easily? How did Shattered Lake Prison mess up this fun tribunal mode so badly?"


    "F*cking b*stards, refund our money!"


    Lawrence keenly noticed that at this moment, Ashe Heath''s odds suddenly dropped from 1.65 to 1.45. This meant the snake boss felt Ashe''s chances of ''winning'' had greatly increased, so he adjusted the odds in time to avoid losing money.


    After a little thought, the fishman understood why the prison had set things up this way.


    Besides its extremely entertaining nature, the ''Blood Moon Tribunal'' event had enthralled the entire nation for decades because of its high interactivity.


    Obvious loopholes like this were left intentionally by the prison, to provide the audience cathartic interactive moments - giving them the hope of personally strangling the convicts!


    What entertainment was more thrilling than bestowing despair?

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55


    Hearing Nago''s words, the other death row inmates also suddenly realized.


    That''s right, why go forward? Jumping back to the viewing tform would allow them to survive too. It was only a distance of ten steps, insignificant for these death row inmates. Even without their sorcerer powers, they had ways to cross over.


    However, when they looked back and saw Ashe''s executioner visibly growingrger again, they immediately realized Nago''s shamelessness. Cursing him under their breaths while gloating over Ashe''s plight, they lowered their heads and continued climbing the steel wire.


    Going back was a trap.


    Nago''s words were the trigger.


    Ashe knew he had screwed up as soon as he looked back, because when Nago said those words, he saw his number of votes exponentially skyrocketing.


    The audience was anxious, they were anxious!


    Because what Nago said was right. If Ashe jumped back, he could break the Blood Moon Tribunal''s carefullyid out ns. The steel wire tribtion and purgatorial mes would have nothing to do with Ashe.


    However, his good experience was a provocation to the audience - as a death row inmate, not repenting and admitting wrongs in the Blood Moon Tribunal, but instead trying to break the rules even more?!


    It was like a student who didn''t do his homework, instead of admitting his mistake when the teacher scolded him "Why did youe to school?", he suddenly realized he should just run out of school to y.


    As social supervisors, the audience would naturally give such an immature offender the chance to repent - remember not to do this again in your next life!


    In addition to the death penalty for the person with the most votes, the voting process would end immediately and the death penalty carried out if someone received 50% of the votes.


    The restrictions on the death row inmates were lifted, but the price was that their lives were no longer under their control. On the other side of the light curtain were hundreds of thousands of Caimon City citizens, each holding the bargaining chip for their lives.


    Once anyone dared to go against this tide, the audience''s bargaining chips would fall, turning into heavy heavenly condemnation, crushing the backbone of their resistance.


    So if Ashe jumped back, what awaited him was the heartfelt thanks of the other death row inmates, as well as the terrifying executioner formed by the 50% vote share.


    But that said.


    If Ashe''s number of votes skyrocketed ahead of everyone else, and the audience stubbornly believed that the chance of redemption belonged to none other than Ashe, then Ashe would definitely jump back.


    Anyway, he was going to die, so he wouldn''t cater to their games.


    The reason Ashe was still willing to follow the rules of the game was because the current voting situation gave him hope.


    "Ashe Heath, 42,354 votes."


    "Valcas Uhl, 31,002 votes."


    Ashe nced at the executioner behind Valcas, just as thick and hideous, only slightly smaller than his own executioner.


    Seemingly noticing Ashe''s gaze, Valcas nced at him and let out a cold snort, actually jumping up on the tform and lightlynding on the steel wire, walking towards the distant tform in elegant steps.


    This cool and arrogant scene instantly earned Valcas several thousand more votes.


    I didn''t expect, I didn''t expect that you, Valcas, with your thick eyebrows and big eyes, would also be so hateful, almost catching up to me. As expected, you''re no good elf... Ashe muttered to himself as he looked at Valcas on the light curtain. The light curtain suddenly popped up some information:


    "View Valcas Uhl''s criminal record?"


    Ashe chose to view it. A small window popped up on the light curtain, showing Valcas'' first-person perspective of stealing technical data at his university and murdering a colleague researcher.


    His colleague was seen limp on the floor of the hallway, his face full of fear, snot and tears flowing as he retreated and pleaded:


    ��Spare me, I beg you, Valcas, don��t... Ah!��


    With a miserable shriek, the colleague was stabbed through the chest by Valcas!


    As if the perpetrator''s perspective wasn''t exciting enough, the second half of the video was actually the colleague researcher''s first-person victim perspective!


    Facing Valcas'' step-by-step approach, the video clearly portrayed the colleague''s despair, fear, and the pain of his fading life!


    These were memory fragments of Valcas and the person he murdered!


    Having watched a memory fragment for the first time, Ashe was deeply shocked by this technology, shocked by the powerful and bizarre sorcerer system, and also shocked that the other death row inmates had dared tomit crimes - how was this any different from public urination and defecation? All crimes wereid bare!


    Any crime involving harming others meant you had already been exposed in the eyes of the Heresy Court. Even if you destroyed and erased all traces, the Heresy Court could extract the victim''s memories!


    No wonder the death row inmates were all masters of secret arts. After all, without formidable abilities, how could they havemitted crimes punishable by death before being caught by the Heresy Court?


    Weaker criminals were likely captured by the Heresy Court during their developmental stage of petty theft and fraud, and sent for reeducation and rehabilitation.


    After watching, a question surprisingly popped up on the light curtain:


    "Cast a redemption vote for Valcas Uhl? Each of your redemption votes is a show of support for justice."


    Ashe was startled, with countless weeds sprouting in his heart.


    These death row inmates could actually vote too?!


    Hadn''t they been stripped of their political rights for life?


    This was simply insulting them. Did the prison think they, these death row inmates, would vote for other candidates just to increase their meager chance of survival?


    Ashe was indignant about the prison''s disdain for him, yet still cast a vote for Valcas.


    However, although Valcas'' murder was quite cruel, it shouldn''t have earned him so many votes, right? How was Ashe inferior to him?


    Ashe looked at his own portrait. Although a small video popped up too, it wasn''t his memories, but thew enforcement memories of the Blood Mad Hunters.


    The bizarre underground hall filled with blood runes, remains on the altar, twisted piles of corpses... Ashe fast forwarded after watching for a bit, unable to bear watching himself. He even felt a twinge of conscience.


    Damn, it really hurt, his soul was reacting to the purgatorial mes.


    Ashe repeated ''I''m Ashe not Ashe'' three times in his mind before the searing pain in his conscience slowly faded away.


    This small episode also allowed Ashe to feel the might of the purgatorial mes - just because he had transmigrated into this body and briefly immersed himself in Ashe''s identity, the purgatorial mes had already scalded his mind.


    The agony endured by the real criminal death row inmates who hadmitted those deeds must be thousands, tens of thousands times greater.


    Thinking of this, Ashe felt quite delighted. His simple ck-and-white worldview made him apud this punishment.


    If he himself wasn''t at the live broadcast scene but watching this show cozily at home, it would be even better.


    Ashe nced at the others'' criminal records, only reading the text summaries due to time constraints.


    As expected, Harvey was guilty of corpse desecration... Although Ashe was very curious whether the ''corpse'' was cold or warm, male or female, such visual impact was still too much for him to dare click open the video.


    Alright, this one was a serial killer, that one ate people, this one an assassin, that one a violent gang leader...


    Ashe quickly browsed through them and found that Ashe''s crimes were indeed the most brutal among them. Even without the daily news reports rmending him these past few days, Ashe reckoned the audience would still be able to recognize a hero when they saw one.


    Unexpectedly, among the eight of them, Valcas'' crimes were the lightest, yet his number of votes was second only to Ashe''s.


    Although somewhat puzzled, there was no time for him to think about it.


    The others were almost at the tform. Ashe had to take action too.


    After all, he couldn''t just stay here waiting to die while everyone else moved on.


    But how could he get across?


    He couldn''t fall into the sea. It was full of finger sharks, and if he fell in, even his fingernails might not survive.


    He couldn''t fly up either. There was currently some chaos magic spirits riot party going on, any airborne construct would get struck by lightning.


    But Ashe didn''t originally have any swimming or flying spirits anyway, so these restrictions meant little to him.


    Ashe looked at the steel wire below.


    He squatted down and touched the steel wire. It was very thin yet tough. Ashe touched it and his palm was immediately cut open.


    If he grabbed this steel wire, the undoubted result would be his fingers sliced off as appetizers for the finger sharks.


    Normal people wouldn''t be able to cross it. One had to use spirits.


    But Ashe only had one spirit right now!


    However, he had to try everything now.


    Substitute spirit!


    A duplicate of Ashe appeared beside him, further crowding the already narrow small tform, almost shoving the real Ashe off.


    Although he had summoned the substitute, Ashe didn''t know what the next step of the n was. He looked at the substitute, then the steel wire, gesturing with his mouth for the substitute to go over.


    The substitute naturally had no objections, directly stepping onto the steel wire. Then the steel wire easily tore through its shoes with a pa sound and the substitute dissipated into light smoke.


    Even the slightest harm would cause the substitute to instantly shatter and vanish.


    But Ashe''s eyes lit up.


    Although the wire had shed the substitute��s shoes, the substitute had indeed been able to cross over, unfearing and steady like a robot, incapable of making mistakes!


    Ashe looked at his own shoes, the standard prison-issued canvas shoes for inmates, breathable andfy in all seasons, butcking the durability to walk on steel wires.


    Ashe looked around, then turned to look at Nago behind him.


    Nago raised his eyebrows: "Want toe over?"


    Ashe ignored the rapidly erging executioner and looked at Nago''s steel-toed boots that nked when he walked.


    "Supervisor, your boots look so cool! What brand are they?"


    Happy to be asked about this, Nago perked up: "You have good taste. These are the limited edition Midnight Monarch series by Twilight - I had them on preorder for three months before I could get them."


    Ashe looked at him admiringly: "I knew it, the Twilight Midnight Monarch limited edition series! It''s the only pair of boots I''ve wanted in my life!"


    "It''s Midnight King, Midnight Monarch is another series."


    "That''s not important!" Ashe waved his hand: "What''s important is that I hope to wear this pair of boots before my redemption. This is my one and only request in life, Supervisor. Could you...let me wear them for a bit?"


    Nago''s expression stiffened.


    "That''s not very appropriate, I''ve already worn them..."


    "Don''t worry Supervisor, I don''t mind!" Ashe thumped his chest: "Since you''re giving these boots to me, how could I possibly mind such petty details?"


    Nago was so angry his face twisted.


    I do mind!


    And I didn''t say I was giving them to you!


    Giving you boots? I''d rather give you a kick to send you down! Damn scumbag!


    Daring to take advantage of me? Ashe Heath, this is provoking the supervisor''s dignity, provoking the bottom line of Shattered Lake Prison!


    Nago let out a cold snort and said loudly:


    "Alright!"

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56


    Nago finally took off his boots, revealing his cute socks embroidered with little golden lions.


    He couldn''t refuse this request.


    Hundreds of thousands of citizens were watching the livestream, and each of them held a vote in their hands. If Nago wanted to leave prison in the future, and further be a city council member, he couldn''t do anything that would damage his image.


    The role of supervisor that Nago had specifically applied for from the prison was to increase his exposure and make citizens be more familiar with him,ying the groundwork for his future campaign for council member.


    If he didn''t even fulfill this ''little wish'', forget about bing a council member, even the prison would think hecked the appropriate image and reputation, and wouldn''t let him continue as supervisor.


    Without the role of supervisor, the easiest way to pad his resume before Nago advanced to be a two-winged gold rank, he would be stuck as a prison guard in this prison.


    Although the cost-benefit analysis was very clear, when Nago held the new boots that he had looked forward to for a whole year but had only worn for less than a month, he still couldn''t help feeling heartbroken over having to part with them.


    "Hurry up, I''m in a rush!" Ashe urged.


    "Can you handle it?"


    "I can handle it!"


    "When you put them on, slide your feet in vertically so you don''t wrinkle the exterior texture."


    "Got it, got it."


    "I actually have another decent pair of boots, why don''t I go grab them for you now-"


    "Just toss them over!"


    One of the camera eyes let out a heh hehugh, which happened when the audience currently watching the livestream had the same reaction at the same time, feeding back to the camera eye to let the host know what effect their performance had achieved.


    Clearly the interaction between Ashe and Nago had made the audienceugh, they had watched the Blood Moon Tribunal hundreds of times, but had never seen such silly death row inmates and supervisors before.


    Nago steeled his heart, he didn''t want to be a clown in the citizens'' eyes, so he threw the boots over.


    Ashe caught the boots and examined them closely, discovering that they really were high quality, with a luxurious texture and high-end stylish exterior, no wonder Nago''s expression was as mournful as losing his beloved concubine.


    "Ah, don''t force it, are yours too big? Don''t rush, go slowly, if you force it you''ll leave imprints on them! Be gentler okay?"


    Even just watching, Nago felt pained, after all he was hoping to get the boots back intactter, it''s not like Ashe had long to live anyway.


    Ashe ignored him, put on the boots and once again summoned his Doppelganger spirit, creating an identical copy of himself by his side.


    Even the shoes changed to the steel-toed boots Ashe was currently wearing.


    "Stand on the steel wire for a few seconds."


    The doppelganger stood steadily on the wire, which this time could not cut through his boots.


    And since it had not been damaged, the doppelganger naturally did not disappear.


    "Great!" Ashe said excitedly, "Come back."


    The doppelganger came back.


    "Crouch down!"


    The doppelganger crouched down.


    Ashe climbed onto the doppelganger''s neck, "Carry me and walk the steel wire to the big tform on the other side!"


    However this time the doppelganger did not react, and just peacefully raised its head to look at Ashe.


    "Carry me and walk the steel wire to the big tform on the other side!" Thinking it hadn''t heard him, Ashe repeated it again.


    After three seconds of silence, the doppelganger seemed to finally understand the meaning of this sentence, or its own fate.


    Whine.


    Whine.


    With each step the doppelganger took, the steel wire let out whines and creaks, making Ashe''s heart race nervously. He saw the other death row inmates cross so effortlessly, but when it was his turn to cross, just lowering his head to look at the sea below made him feel like peeing himself.


    But he seeded - the doppelganger couldpletely carry him across.


    Ashe vaguely realized another wondrous aspect of the sorcerer system.


    If ordinary people operated on ''you can''t do anything I haven''t explicitly allowed'', then sorcerers worked on ''you can do anything I haven''t explicitly forbidden''.


    The former was total emptiness, thetter was total permission.


    The doppelganger spirit''s effect was to create an identical copy of himself that would disappear if damaged, and followed hismandspletely.


    Therefore, as long as he didn''t exceed the restrictions, Ashe could order the doppelganger to carry out unimaginable behaviors, even if they were things he couldn''t do himself.


    Like right now, Ashe himself had no ability to walk the tightrope, let alone carry someone else across it.


    Yet the doppelganger could do it.


    Because it was Ashe''smand,


    Because it was a task the doppelganger could theoreticallyplete,


    So it could.


    Spirits weren''t miracles, they couldn''t bend the rules of reality.


    They just represented the infinite extension of knowledge, the theoretical best oue, the optimal result allowed by reality.


    They were the limit.


    If only he could take the Doppelganger spirit back to his original world...then he could have the doppelganger help take care of his parents at home...


    Ashe dismissed the thought after a moment, that would be too mundane a use for it, if he had a doppelganger what narrow vision limited his sights?


    That''s right, it was capital.


    So he should have the doppelganger go to work while he stayed home lying down taking care of his parents, although it was also very likely his parents would end up taking care of him...


    While lost in thought, the doppelganger had already crossed most of the way, and by now the other death row inmates had basically all climbed onto the tform on the other side, leaving only Ashe and Valcas still on the wire.


    "You two stand there and don''t move! Don''te over!"


    A death row inmate with knife scars on his face aimed a long gun at Ashe, "If you take another step forward, don''t me me for sending you down to feed the fish!"


    The other death row inmates paused briefly, then seemed to realize something and stood silently to the side.


    Ashe blinked and asked, "Why?"


    "Isn''t it obvious?" Valcas called out from afar with augh, "Cowards always take advantage of others'' peril, scum always judge others by their own petty standards, the weak can only survive through deception."


    Although Valcas spoke in riddles as usual, Ashe noticed the death row inmates were not looking at him, but at the executioner behind him, and immediately understood their thoughts - they were afraid he would rush over and use them as human shields against the executioner!


    Oh right!


    He could do that!


    Not bad, the death row inmates'' brains worked faster than his when it came to harming others and sparing themselves!


    Without a doubt, the one to be saved tonight would be either Ashe or Valcas out of the two of them. If they both reached the tform, it meant the executioner would also chase over.


    One look at the executioner''s hideous and terrifying form told you its method of attack would not be a clean, non-residual mental assault, but more likely a huge AOE physical damage sweeping attack.


    In other words, if it executed someone while others watched nearby, the spectators would very likely be caught in it too!


    So the death row inmates who had reached the tform first came up with the idea.


    Don''t let Ashe and Valcas reach the tform!


    Otherwise the oue would definitely be a party wipe of 8 deaths!


    So Scarface threatened Ashe and Valcas not to advance, believing the best oue would be for the two of them to be executed by the executioner midway on the wire.


    "If you don''t want to fall and feed the fish, then stay put!" Scarface roared.


    "I refuse!"


    Ashe righteously stated, "My favorite thing to do is say no when someone threatens me! Step forward!"


    Squeak~


    The doppelganger heavily took a step forward, stomping on the wire, swaying and crying out!


    Bang!


    Scarface fired his gun, the scars on his face distorted by fear and fury into centipedes, "I can shoot, stay where you are...stay there!"


    "I - don''t - believe - you''ll - shoot - me!"


    With each word Ashe spoke, the doppelganger took another step forward, arrogantly asking for a beating, making onlookers'' fists itch to punch it.


    Bang!


    "Don''t force me, I really will shoot, I killed 19 people before I was imprisoned, look at my file if you don''t believe me!"


    However Ashe had long since seen through his bluffing, unhurriedly saying, "The fact that you threatened me so quickly shows you''re smart. But exactly because you''re smart, I''m certain you won''t shoot."


    "On what basis!"


    "Because if I die here, the one executed by the executioner will be you!"


    Ashe smiled, "If neither of us dies, you can at least be certain the ones executed will be the two of us. But if we die, then the audience will choose one person to vote for out of you six!"


    Scarface''s mouth twitched, "So what, it''s not necessarily me!"


    "No, definitely you." Asheughed, "Think about it, right now the audience expects the two of us to be executed, but you''ve ruined their excitement. Guess if they''ll use their votes to vent their anger on you?"


    "Also, haven''t you noticed everyone else has distanced themselves from you?"


    Scarface paused briefly, and looked left and right to see he really was standing alone in the center, exposed, while the others had retreated to the edges, carefully avoiding appearing in the same frame as him!


    "Why are they avoiding you? Because if you can really force us to stay on the wire, they can reap the rewards. And if you shoot us dead, you''ll definitely be the voting target for the audience. Either way, they have nothing to lose."


    Scarface''s mouth twitched, "Then, then what if it''s not me!"


    "No, definitely you." Asheughed, "Think about it, right now the audience expects us two to be executed, but you''ve ruined the mood for them. Do you think they won''t vent their anger on you with their votes?"


    "Besides, haven''t you noticed everyone else has distanced themselves from you?"


    Scarface paused briefly, and looked around to see he really was standing alone in the center, exposed, while the others had retreated to the edges, carefully avoiding appearing together with Scarface!


    "Why are they avoiding you? Because if you can really keep us stuck on the wire, they can benefit without lifting a finger. And if you shoot us dead, you''ll definitely be the voting target of the audience. No matter what, they have nothing to lose."


    Ashe gave a bright smile, "Or could it be you''re a reformed model prisoner who has transcended base desires and attained high moral character, willing to sacrifice yourself to protect your fellow inmates?"


    Scarface''s hand shook slightly, but the muzzle of the gun gradually lowered.


    "So do you know where your path to survival lies?"


    Scarface eagerly asked, "Where''s the path to survival?"


    "Go back, or hang from the steel wire." Ashe smiled, "Since I''m standing here, if you don''t want to die, your only option is to stay away from me."


    "This is my spot, it''s you who should leave!"

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57


    Red Mist Tavern.


    "Don''t be afraid! Hurry up and kill Ashe! How can you tolerate his arrogance?"


    "Aren''t you a serial killer? How could you be persuaded so easily?"


    "This batch of death row inmates is the most cowardly I''ve ever seen!"


    Seeing Scarface put down his hand, many customers let out a cry - they were all smart people who had predicted fighting would break out among the death row inmates. Thus, they had ced bets on "the death row inmates will kill each other."


    Now that Scarface had been persuaded by Ashe, it seemed their bets were going down the drain.


    "But this Ashe kid is pretty interesting. Can we watch him in a few more Blood Moon Tribunals?"


    "I''d rather see his expression when he bes one of the redeemed! That must be entertaining."


    "Can I still ce a preorder for his and the elf''s full blood? I''m feeling a bit hungry."


    "There aren''t even enough sacred bloodline members in the prison to go around. How could there possibly be any left for you? Don''t even think about preordering full blood...maybe you can preorder some hemorrhoid blood."


    Sitting alone with his drink, Lorens looked at Ashe Heath on the light screen, suddenly recalling something from years ago.


    It was several years prior, when he hadn''t yet undergone the blood recement ceremony and was still a student at Caimon University. Someone had handed him a flyer in the second cafeteria.


    He vaguely remembered it was for a student mutual aid society, with the ts of "Courage," "Wisdom," "Life," and "Joy." But he had been close to graduating then and naturally uninterested.


    Lorens didn''t know why he recalled this now.


    But when he looked at Ashe Heath again, an ephemeral feeling of...familiarity arose in his heart.


    His hand trembled slightly as he prepared to vote.


    We should be the ones to go!?


    Although it sounded reasonable, seeing Ashe''s arrogant face made every death row inmate feel extremely stifled. It was like waiting in line for an hour before someone tapped their shoulder and said, "You''re in the wrong line, you should go over there. Let me cut in front of you."


    And on further thought, this path didn''t seem viable either. After all, there were still executors on their small tform. Purgatorial me was just an itch to Ashe and Valcas, but to them it was ying their brains!


    "Or there''s an even better way," said another skinny man holding a dagger sinisterly. "After the voting ends and before the executors arrive, we can just kill off you two. Then the executors won''te."


    "That''s right!"


    "Restrain them first!"


    "Cut off their four limbs and throw them into the sea after voting ends!"


    Ashe thought to himself, damn it, his currentbat ability was just a bit higher than a normal person''s. He could barely handle deathmatches, let alone uncontrolled fighting against these vicious and ruthless senior sorcerers!


    From afar, Nago shouted, "Although the prison can''t interfere during the tribunal, I advise you to refrain from suicide and murder. Shedding blood under the blood moon will only escte your crimes. You can still repent and make amends if you stop now. Don''t harm Ashe Heath - just let him wait quietly in my boots for the tribunal''s judgment..."


    Boots, my boots... Nago stamped his feet anxiously. Fight if you must, but don''t get blood on the boots!


    Just as Ashe shivered at the edge of the tform while the death row inmates closed in, a sharp sound suddenly came from beside him!


    Zheng!


    A sword mark shed between Ashe and the others, prating three feet deep as the sword qi cried out!


    "You...want to catch me?"


    While everyone was focused on Ashe, Valcas had silently logged onto the tform and picked up a longsword, sending out crossing rays of sword qi with a gentle wave!


    But Valcas'' deterrence did not make the death row inmates retreat. Dagger-man licked his de, chuckling coldly. "So what if you''re a swordsman? There are six of us and two of you... Moreover, who said none of us are sorcerers!"


    With a sh of silver, fluttering silver wings unfurled from Dagger-man''s back, unleashing intense waves of arcane energy that rippled outward!


    Silver Wings!


    The arcane medium through which mortal sorcerers touched the principles ofw!


    Only those who had sailed ten thousand miles in the Sea of Knowledge could possibly condense Silver Wings!


    Someone like Ashe now, who had just entered the virtual world, couldn''t even condense a single feather - let alone Silver Wings. While Dagger-man''s Silver Wings weren''t very long, based on their size he must have sailed at least two to three thousand miles in the Sea of Knowledge. He had likely been a sorcerer for quite some time!


    Although the scale of one''s Silver Wings wasn''t directly proportional tobat ability, moreplete Silver Wings meant the sorcerer had sailed farther in the Sea of Knowledge, learned from more sorcerer lineages, encountered more ind adventures, and in more creatures of knowledge!


    At least Ashe could ascertain he couldn''t beat this dagger-wielding man one-on-one!


    The other death row inmates scoffed as they each revealed their own Silver Wings. Even the cannibal had a small, chicken wing-sized Silver Wing.


    The mostplete Silver Wings belonged to none other than the necromancer, Harvey. Nearly fully unfurled, they were probably only a bit away from the ten thousand mile voyage. Noticing Ashe''s surprised gaze, Harvey revealed a friendly smile. The way he looked at Ashe was full of enthusiasm.


    Ashe blinked.


    Could it be that after an afternoon together, Harvey had decided to recognize me as a good buddy?


    But upon closer inspection, Ashe suddenly recalled the same look of affinity and enthusiasm on Harvey''s face when he talked about handling corpses previously. His face darkened immediately - damn, Harvey probably hadn''t gotten to handle fresh corpses for many days in prison, and wanted to indulge using this chance!


    But he was truly done for this time. As a sorcerer who had only entered the virtual world a few days ago and whose only spirit was a shadow clone, how could hepete against six silver-winged sorcerers? Even with Valcas, they were still outmatched!


    Zheng!


    With a cry like ringing steel, a radiant sh of silver-gold pressed down the death row inmates'' silver wings!


    Valcas'' Silver Wings had fully unfurled!


    Each feather resembled a dancing firefly. Every flutter seemed to warp thews of reality!


    Compared to Valcas'' perfect Silver Wings, Harvey''s looked like expired goods taken out of a dusty warehouse - which they were, in fact. Bathed in the silver glow of perfection, Harvey''s silver wings instantly wilted as if ashamed of their own shabbiness.


    Not only perfect Silver Wings, Valcas even had a short, dazzling section of Golden Wings!


    A two-winged golden sorcerer!


    Valcas was a virtual world traveler who hadpletely traversed the Sea of Knowledge, broken through its constraints, summoned a two-winged spirit, and sessfully climbed onto the Temporal Continent!


    "So do you still think two can''t beat six?" Valcas mocked.


    Hearing this, Dagger-man forced out an uglier-than-crying smile and tried to hide behind the others, only to find they had all distanced themselves from him. He could only lower his head and say, "Master Uhl, I was just joking earlier. Please..."


    "Not funny at all."


    "...Please forgive me..."


    "Kowtow and I''ll forgive you if you split your head open."


    Without another word, Dagger-man immediately smashed his head on the ground, looking so pitiful it hurt just to watch. After three knocks, his forehead split open with blood flowing down his nose ridge in two streams.


    "Master Uhl, is this enough?"


    "Ugly, yes, but your sincerity is adequate. You pass."


    Dagger-man rxed in relief and quickly shrank to the side, not even daring to curse as he cowered submissively.


    But everyone understood. After all, the other was a two-winged sorcerer. Although they could probably still defeat him together, was it necessary?


    Only Dagger-man had offended Valcas. Why should they risk a bloody battle to the death with the strongest closebat sorcerer for the sake of a single inmate?


    Wouldn''t selling out Dagger-man be better?


    Dagger-man also knew if Valcas wanted him dead, the others would absolutely stand by and watch, even apud. Thus, conceding was his only way to survive.


    Ashe hurried to Valcas'' side, folding his arms as he looked down at these cowardly death row inmates.


    Humph, the two of us are so powerful.


    "Let''s consider this even," said Valcas.


    Ashe was baffled by this. "What?"


    Without turning his head, Valcas said, "If not for you earlier, I might still be standing on the steel wire."


    Ashe blinked. "That? I did it for myself, not to help you specifically."


    "Either way, I''ve repaid this debt. Don''t me me for what happens next."


    Ashe was taken aback. "What are you going to do next?"


    "What else can I do?"


    Valcas let out a coldugh and flicked his sword.


    "Survive like maggots, dance like flies, fight like dung beetles."


    Ashe realized something and exited the livestream channel.


    "Current highest number of votes: Valcas Uhl, 244,623 votes."

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58


    In the light curtain, Nago was still hosting very professionally in his golden lion socks: "...Currently, Valcas Uhl has the most votes. It seems the audience wants this elven criminal to find redemption."


    "Let me briefly introduce Mr. Uhl''s life story. He was born in 1542 at the Emerald Dragon Orphanage. You may not be very familiar with the Emerald Dragon Orphanage, but it is currently the only dual-first ss orphanage in Caimon City, and the predecessor of the ''Emerald Garden'' orphanage."


    "In the past three hundred years, Emerald Dragon was an orphanage exclusively for elves and never epted infants of other races. But in 1600, under the promotion of the ''Racial Equality in Childcare Act'', Emerald Dragon and many other orphanages merged to be the multi-racial Emerald Garden orphanage, which has nurtured many outstanding talents to date. Its sorcerer training rate is as high as 21%. If not for his crimes, Mr. Uhl would surely have been a famous alumnus that Emerald Garden boasts about."


    Although Ashe didn''t know what a "dual-first ss orphanage" was, he felt it was probably more important than academic background here.


    In Blood Moon''s society where all childcare was socialized and private parenting was illegal, orphanages were probably equivalent to a child''s family.


    The more powerful the orphanage, the better the child''s background.


    If Ashe guessed correctly, orphanages probably had ''selection rights'' over infants.


    Although many factors influenced a child''s growth, in this magician''s world full of miracles, it was not impossible to use some methods to screen for infants with better potential, aptitude and temperament, and nurture them in an excellent environment.


    Starting from birth, children from outstanding orphanages were like rolling snowballs, far ahead of others.


    If Ashe lived here as an ordinary person, he would probably feel despair over this insurmountable gap.


    After Nago introduced Valcas'' illustrious background, Ashe saw Valcas'' votes increase by another ten thousand.


    At this point, Ashe was starting to sense why Valcas was more favored by the audience.


    "Afterpleting basic education at the orphanage, Mr. Uhl studied at Atson Secondary School and Caimon Comprehensive University sessively, obtaining white silver degrees in eleven disciplines including swordsmanship, painting, music and earth maniption over thirty years. He was appointed by Caimon University as a research professor in the Biology Department, and served as an academic advisor for the Forest Biotechnology Company."


    "In 1645, Mr. Uhl was nominated as a councilor for Caimon City, but lost by 3 votes to another candidate. This makes one wonder - if Mr. Uhl had been elected councilor back then, would he have kept himself in line and been strict with himself? Or would he havemitted even more serious crimes?"


    "Overall, Mr. Uhl was once a citizen with superior background, good education, and made many contributions to society. But it''s a pity he went astray and was blinded by desire,mitting unforgivable crimes..."


    "There is only 1 minute left before the voting ends. Audiences who haven''t voted, please hurry."


    "Each vote earns redemption points, which can be exchanged for consumer brands participating in the ''Redemption Program''. Thetest brand to join the program is Aiche Jewelry - every 30 points can be exchanged for a coupon!"


    "During the new year transition, redemption points can even be used for the Blood Moon lottery!"


    "Please don''t be stingy with your redemption votes - keeping them won''t make babies. If you don''t use something when the timees, it loses meaning!"


    "Each of your votes represents your contribution towards redeeming sinners and adding light to the Blood Moon!"


    "Only 30 seconds left... Ah!"


    With Nago''s sudden cry, a hideous and brutal Executioner emerged from the ground. It was seven meters tall, with three heads and eight arms, each holding a different weapon. Its three faces wore expressions ofpassion, anger and calmness. Its body was wrapped in azure armor made of Purgatorial me, like a deity descending, the incarnation of divine punishment!


    When the Titan Executioner opened its six eyes simultaneously, it actually made a metallic sound!


    Its three mouths opened at the same time, letting out a long breath that stirred the air currents!


    The Purgatorial me on its body spread like a storm, igniting blue mes on the eight steel wires. The flickering mes turned into a blue ming path leading to the tform!


    An aura of despair, destruction and crushing pressure washed over them. All the death row inmates shivered and hid at the edges, as if afraid of attracting the Titan Executioner''s attention.


    Ashe looked at Valcas and reflexively took a step back.


    "Scram, don''t get in my way." Valcas said coldly.


    Every cell in Ashe''s body urged him to make a run for it. After all, Valcas and the Titan Executioner were so powerful, it made no difference whether he was here or not.


    But when he lowered his head, he noticed Valcas'' hand gripping his sword hilt was trembling.


    After a few seconds, Valcas looked at the shivering Ashe beside him and sneered, "Not to that extent right? Your legs have gone soft and you can''t even run away?"


    Ashe was also holding a sword. His hands shook, making the longsword tremble, and his teeth chattered as he spoke, "W-when I was in school, I noticed some ssmates had no one to y with. They went to the toilet alone during breaks, stood at the side during P.E., and had no one to pair up with for field trips and outings... So I made it a point to y with them, chat with them, y ball together, be in the teacher''s group together..."


    "Hypocrisy." Valcas scoffed. "You only did it to satisfy your condescending sense of pity, to gain spectators'' approval bymiserating them, to obtain psychological fulfillment through patronizing them, or even to satisfy your own pathetic lust for power by controlling them - no different from a ve owner. The only difference is ve owners shackle their ves with violence, while you shackle them with ��friendship��."


    "Yes, I know I''m just a pretentious fraud. I actually dislike some of their traits too, but interacted with them to satisfy those dark desires. That''s why I rarely kept in contact with them after growing up..." Ashe said, "But at a gathering, a ssmate told me he was very grateful that I was willing to spend time with him back then. If not for me, he might have remained a loner... Now he has a girlfriend and ns to get married, and wants to invite me to be his best man..."


    Valcas raised his brows slightly, a trace of confusion on his face. "Marriage, best man?"


    "In short..." Ashe''s body stopped shaking as much. He looked towards the imposing Titan Executioner in the distance. "Just pretend I''m doing this to satisfy my hypocrisy. Let me stay here for a while. When ites over, I''ll leave."


    "Boring, irrational, meaningless. I don''t understand why you want to do this, when just yesterday we were still fighting to the death..." Valcas said coldly, "Or could it be you want to build up a benevolent image before the audience, to pave the way for your next Blood Moon Tribunal?"


    "I didn''t know there was such an operation, thanks for the heads up. In that case, I definitely have to stay till the veryst second before running. Don''t stop meter, and don''t mind me. A petty hypocrite like me will surely run faster than anyone when dangeres."


    Valcas was silent for a moment, calmly watching the oppressive Titan Executioner.


    "Do as you wish."


    Ashe tried to force out a smile, but a heavy footstep made his scalp tingle.


    Boom!


    Boom!


    The Titan Executioner walked over step by step. The intense vibrations traveled along the steel wires onto the tform, making it difficult for the death row inmates to even stand.


    As it walked, it lifted its weapons. Four-winged spirits appeared on each weapon. Space copsed wherever it passed, time distorted! The entire world seemed to revolve around it!


    "The Titan Executioner is different from other executioners."


    Nago''s voice came clearly from the light curtain amidst this terrifying pressure.


    "It doesn''t use whips like the getor to awaken the criminal''s conscience, or blood like the de to cleanse the criminal''s sins, or endless nightmares like the Soul Drinker to make the criminal experience the suffering...


    "It only uses the most powerful miracles to instantly redeem the criminal. Regardless of gender or strength, it does its utmost to respect every life."


    "With solemn death, it forges the immortality of the Blood Moon."


    Boom!


    Another deafening footstep. Suddenly, dozens of crimson chains shot out from the ground and pulled Ashe down, forcing him to kneel!


    "What is this!?" Ashe struggled violently, but couldn''t break free at all. The chains seemed fused to his joints - any attempt to stand would viciously wrench his joints and nerves, forcing him to remain kneeling.


    Why was only Valcas being attacked while he was fine?


    "The first miracle, Earth''s Judgment!" Nago announced. "The earth responds to the footsteps of justice!"


    Ding! Ding! Ding!


    Valcas swung his longsword, severing the crimson chains. He seemed to want to help Ashe, but at this moment long wails sounded from the night sky!


    ng! ng! ng!


    Valcas suddenly danced an agile and graceful elven sword dance on the spot, as if battling invisible enemies. Looking closely, Ashe saw invisible wind des sweeping in from all directions. Any pause in Valcas'' movements would mean being shredded to pieces!


    "The second miracle, Heaven''s Judgment!" said Nago. "Any stubborn fool unwilling to kneel and repent will receive the heavens'' admonishment!"


    "With earth and heaven sealed off, next is the third miracle - the Judgment of the Masses!"


    "The Titan Executioner will impartially bestow death upon every recipient of redemption!"


    Ashe raised his head and saw the Titan Executioner had already covered most of the distance, just two to three steps from the tform!


    Kneeling and looking up now, he felt its sheer massive size and horror even more intensely!


    That oppressive aura of a colossal being overwhelmed him, almost freezing his thoughts!


    Thest shreds of rationality screamed wildly in his mind: Run!


    Yes, run...?


    Ashe looked at the crimson chains binding him, then blinked nkly.


    Whoops.

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59


    I''m done for!


    Ashe looked at the red chains all over his body and waspletely dumbfounded.


    Forget about how he would break free from these chains, even if he did, the wind des above his head weren''t there just for show. Right now the wind des were only aimed at Valcas because he was the only one resisting. But it was hard to say the wind des wouldn''t go for this soft persimmon Ashe once he decided to stop ying dead.


    Moreover, Ashe had no way of breaking free from the red chains!


    Crap, now he was definitely dead. Should he call for the swordswoman? Though other than watching the show she couldn''t do much either...


    Just as Ashe was trying to empty his mind andfort himself before his impending doom, he suddenly felt himself move.


    No, he didn''t move, the ground beneath him did.


    Ashe looked down and saw the ground he was on seemed to have e alive'' and was carrying him backwards. The red chains didn''t react at all. After all, the chains were connected to the ground so when the ground moved, the chains naturally moved with it.


    Could it be that the earth''s intelligence recognized that I''m a kind-hearted environmentalist, so it wants to save my dog life?


    But when Ashe was carried to the edge of the tform and saw Harvey summoning earth spirits to control thend, he was immediately moved by the sincerity of this prison buddy.


    "Next time you wanna die,e find me. I have great skills and provide after-sales service too. You just need to give me your spirit as payment before you die." Harvey whispered angrily: "If the executioner identally kills someone not meant for judgement, it might go berserk and attack indiscriminately. It''s happened once or twice before, almost always resulting in the death of all condemned prisoners!"


    "....I was just about to broad-mindedly tolerate your fetish..."


    "What?"


    "Why do you have an earth spirit? Aren''t you a death mage?"


    "Nowadays themon burial methods are earth burial, cremation and sea burial. As a death mage, mastery over earth, fire and water magic is a must. How can I call myself a death mage otherwise?"


    Damn, Ashe had thought a mortician was just a side gig for death mages. He didn''t expect a death mage''s main upation was to work at a funeral home.


    ng!


    Valcas suddenly stabbed his sword into the ground. A deep yellow sword aura burst forth, encasing Valcas like a barrier, blocking the turbulent wind des outside.


    "Miracle - Sword Body Barrier. A very impressive defensive sword miracle." Nago appraised: "But it will only buy Uhl a little more time. Pointless struggle, suchbor, such humility, but don''t worry. The Titan Executor will swiftly relieve his pain... Oh?"


    Faced with the iing Titan Executor like a mountain copse or tsunami, Valcas did not retreat or cower. Instead, he took on an elven swordsmanship stance, summoned several spirits with flowing radiance around his body. His sword rang out crisp and clear. Amidst the howling winds, sounds of ughter and grim music suddenly yed, as if the reaper had descended!


    "If I''m not mistaken, Uhl is preparing to unleash his new sword miracle, Requiem, that he invented as a schr."


    Nago also seemed excited: "Hisst research report on it was published nine years ago. Back then Requiem was still untested inbat due to its overlyplicated invocation. But after nine years, Uhl has actuallypleted Requiem and is even using it to oppose judgement!"


    The elf danced with his sword, apanied by grim music. The condemned resisted judgement and defied fate!


    Seeing that lone figure before the Titan Executor, Ashe couldn''t help but ask Harvey: "Why him?"


    "Hmm?"


    "Why did he get 50% of the votes? Judging by crimes and notoriety, I should''ve gotten the most redemption votes. No matter how I think about it, Valcas shouldn''t have been the top vote receiver, let alone with an absolute majority of 50%... What crime did hemit to incur such fury?"


    Harvey looked at Ashe. "Isn''t it obvious?"


    "What''s obvious? From his criminal record, his crimes seem pretty ordinary. Nowhere near as impressive as yours."


    "It''s not about the crimes recorded."


    "Then what is it about?"


    "It''s about his appearance, his bloodline, his birth."


    Ashe blinked.


    "He''s an elf. That''s his biggest crime."


    Harvey said: "In appearance, strength, wisdom and longevity - elves have an advantage over other races in every aspect. Moreover, due to their small numbers, elves tend to band together to protect their own interests. The wise elves never hesitate to help their kin.


    "Almost all elves are adopted by the best orphanages and seen as ''stewards of society'', widely employed in management positions. With their long lifespans and excellent looks and knowledge, other races can hardlypete with elves for leadership roles. Though it''s said managers and employees are equal, everyone knows that''s just lip service."


    "Who hasn''t experienced the arrogance of ogre colleagues, theziness of goblin colleagues, the sloppiness of beastmen colleagues, and the harshness of elven superiors?"


    "In the history of the Caimon City Blood Moon Tribunal, not once has an elven criminal appeared. Not just because elves are mostly the upper ss without need of crime, but also because they cover for each other, bound by bloodline into a collective - something other races cannot achieve."


    "Goblins are short-sighted, beastmen foolish, ogres deceitful, humans selfish... Before elves, we can only feel...inferior."


    "Even I voted for Valcas just now."


    Harvey said softly: "This is perhaps the only chance most people have to trample an elf."


    Ashe looked at the Titan Executor again, but this time, he did not see a hideous monster. He saw the murky anger, the tremendous pressure formed from the hysterical frustration of countless ordinary people.


    Although other than his swordswoman, Ashe had never seen any ordinary people - the prison only contained guards and condemned prisoners - he could understand what ordinary people on the outside felt.


    It was the despair born under an orderly society, the anger from gazing upon an uncrossable ravine.


    In the Order-raised Caimon, most were separated into castes from infancy. Those with high potential went to good orphanages, those with low potential went to poor ones. Their futures were divided from the starting line.


    Those of good birth like elves pursued prestigious careers and bing mages was no surprise. Ashe saw from the criminal records of goblins, beastmen and ogres that those of poor birth were either manualborers or gangsters, never rising above their station in life.


    Moreover, the lower ss didn''t even have the right toin.


    Because those above you were simply better than you. Everyone came from orphanages, with no capital beyond their talents.


    He just had better aptitude so he could enter a better orphanage, umting advantages step-by-step until finally standing over you.


    A society divided by talents nearly deprived people of the courage to cross ss boundaries.


    Ashepletely understood the meaning behind the Blood Moon Tribunal.


    Under such suffocating ss barriers, the desires of all to live well were thoroughly suppressed, twisted desires breeding nothing but malice and resentment.


    When Order dictated they would never make something of themselves, breaking the shackles was inevitable. Moreover, with thepleteck of family in Caimon, everyone was an ind. They could do anything with no fear of consequences.


    Thus three things must be told to the masses: First, break thew and you will suffer a terrible death; Second, even highly-ced people will die terribly; Third, you who live orderly lives are the most fortunate.


    Ashe was a sacrificialmb, Harvey was one as well, all the condemned were. And Valcas was the most satisfactory sacrifice of all.


    Just as the Titan Executor was about to unleash destruction, Valcas suddenly turned and looked at Ashe.


    Ashe froze.


    Why are you looking at me?


    But in the next moment, the condemned prisoners around Ashe rolled and crawled away frantically, with Harvey moving the earth to flee even further. Ashe immediately understood.


    Damn it, don''t tell me Valcas wants to use me as a meat cushion!?

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60


    How long had Ashe known Valcas for?


    Just one day, in fact less than an hour all together.


    How was their interaction?


    They got along well. Ashe was cut all over by Valcas, and Ashe slit Valcas''s throat.


    Ashe suddenly recalled that when he had asked "What trouble will you get into if you lose to me?" yesterday, Valcas''s reply was quite intriguing.


    "You''ll find out tomorrow."


    Theoretically, losing to Ashe in one match shouldn''t have mattered much to Valcas, since he had contributed a lot already.


    Just look at Igor - he lost to Ashe even more times, yet now he was lying in his dorm room bed, drinking wine and eating steak, perfectly fine.


    Therefore, Valcas must have been deliberately arranged onto the judgement list, absolutely not because he was in the bottom eight of contributions. Someone manipted the rules to send Valcas to his doom!


    After all, the judgement list didn''t have to be ranked by contributions. There were so many loopholes that could be utilized. The person in charge could send Valcas to his deathpletely legally and properly!


    So why was it arranged this way?


    Because Valcas lost to Ashe. This was the consequence of failing to perform his duties, this was Silin''s punishment for him!


    Moreover, that wasn''t all.


    The preferential treatment elves received during the Blood Moon Tribunal was almost predictable. As long as Valcas appeared in the judgement broadcast, the oue was practically destined.


    Then, when such an arrogant and vicious elf was about to be crushed into meat sauce, if he noticed that among the death row inmates present was the very person who not only slit his throat yesterday but could be said to be the culprit behind his current plight...


    What would he do?


    So-called fate was simply inevitable logic.


    This was really getting more for the price! ...Ashe smiled bitterly, extremely impressed with Professor Silin who nned everything.


    This was precisely an ingenious scheme that took human nature into ount. If Valcas hadn''t joined the judgement, Ashe naturally wouldn''t be able to escape, but some ident might have happened.


    However, with Valcas in the judgement, not only were idents during the voting segment eliminated, but also, because of his resentment, Ashe would surely be dragged down along with him!


    The moment Ashe agreed to a deathmatch with Valcas, his fate had already been written by Silin -


    Either be crushed into mud by Valcas on the deathmatch stage.


    Or be taken down together by Valcas on the judgement stage!


    Now no one could save him. Everyone in prison knew about his feud with Valcas. Anyone who approached him now was equivalent to voluntarily freeing up a dorm room for the prison.


    Harvey looked at Ashe with regretful yet expectant eyes, seeminglymenting that such great material was about to be ruined by the Titan Executioner, and now they could only pray that the Executioner killing one more death row inmate wouldn''t drive it into a frenzy.


    The music in the air suddenly became stirring and rousing. Inside the sword qi barrier, Valcas let out a roar inconsistent with his exterior, and a visible ripple spread from him, making Ashe and the others feel their bodies go numb and weak. Even the Purgatorial me on the Titan Executioner receded slightly.


    "A very beautiful sonic fluctuation with sound magic!"


    While introducing to the audience, Nago tiptoed and craned his neck to look: "Can''t determine the specific spirit, but it should be a sound-type spirit. Because of the transmission traits of sound magic,pared to attacking with sound, mages prefer to use sound magic to apply negative status on enemies, lowering their resistance."


    "First use sound to intimidate and reduce resistance, then go in for the fatal blow with sword arts - this was Mr. Uhl''smonly usedbat strategy in the past!"


    "Mercy''s End, primarily sword arts supplemented by an amalgamation of different systems of magic! Aposite miracle!"


    ng!


    With a sword cry, the world was suddenly dead silent.


    All sounds vanished - the sound of waves, wind, Nago''s voice, vibrations, heartbeats - in an instant, tranquility descended, as if hearing had beenpletely blocked.


    In the extreme silence, Ashe watched as Valcas leapt high into the air like a meteor, stabbing towards the Titan Executioner. The dazzling sword light outshone the crimson moonlight.


    The moment the sword tip touched the Executioner''s body, all sounds returned, but everyone wished they had gone deaf!


    Ding!


    As if all the sounds that had disappeared exploded simultaneously, indescribable noise erupted from Valcas''s sword, the intense vibrations bursting through the air and erupting with a pressure like a storm, even distorting the light!


    Even the Titan Executioner, who had been advancing, was halted, its defense pierced!


    "A two-wing...miracle...actually reaching this level of power..."


    Nago''s voice came through intermittently.


    But no one was watching the screens now. All the death row inmates'' eyes were wide as they marveled at this shining moment.


    Undoubtedly, Valcas''s sword strike just now was extremely strong, but the inmates weren''t strangers to even grander miracles. For example, if bad weather affected an outdoor promotional event held by a majorpany, the weather mages would work together to disperse the rainclouds and restore sunny skies - that was much cooler.


    What truly shocked and dazzled everyone was Valcas daring to actively attack the Titan Executioner.


    Although the death row inmates'' restraints were removed, when facing the Executioners, most Redeemers either desperately resisted orpletely gave up awaiting deliverance.


    The prison allowed them to use force, merely hoping they would add some interest to the show. No one thought they could rebel against the Executioners, nor would anyone allow them to survive judgement - redemption was the only oue for death row inmates.


    Everyone knew Valcas''s defiance was futile.


    But they were all waiting for a miracle, waiting for a hero.


    Viins also wanted a hero who could save viins.


    "Just being able to hinder the Titan Executioner demonstrates this miracle''s value. If Mr. Uhl released this miracle, he would undoubtedly win this year''s Caimon Academic Award." Nago said, "What a pity..."


    Whoosh!


    The Purgatorial me on the Titan Executioner suddenly spun, every wisp of fire flickering like a sharp de. Valcas wasshed by a blue me and his sword qi barrier instantly shattered, his body flying out like a snapped kite!


    On the screen, Nago calmly introduced:


    "The moment the Titan Executioner appeared, it incorporated the Purgatorial me into its own miracle system, fusing it into the ''Miracle - Retaliation Storm''."


    "Any sinner who tries to challenge justice and resist judgement, the Executioner will retaliate with damage equal to what they inflicted. "


    "When you harm others, you must be prepared to be harmed yourself. Sinners often don''t understand this principle."


    Valcas tumbled several times on the ground, covered in wounds, vomiting blood.


    Even so, he still gripped the sword in his hand, never letting go for a moment.


    But several damaged spirits suddenly emerged from his body. Each spirit looked riddled with holes and cracks, quickly dissipating into points of light after escaping!


    "Shaking the Titan Executioner as a two-wing mage, even with a miracle, the price paid is not small."


    Nago said, "The scene just now where space fell silent, the power was almostparable to a three-wing Saint Domain miracle, but the price was most of Mr. Uhl''s sound spirits shattering from overload."


    At this time, the Titan Executioner spread its eight arms, eyes wide open, erupting with bloody light, illuminating Cracked Lake for thousands of miles, dispelling the dark night!


    When it looked towards Valcas, it was as if the entire world copsed!


    Its eight arms were not arms, but wings formed from the fabric of the world, stretching over the sky, enveloping down!


    "It''s over." Nago gently pped, "Let us bid farewell to Valcas Uhl as he ascends to the Blood Moon Paradise. May he continue serving the supremely benevolent Blood Moon Archon in the distant heavens."


    "Wah!"


    Valcas coughed up muddy blood mixed with organ fragments and broken teeth. It seemed both his leg bones were shattered, his lower body almostpletely immobilized, only able to prop himself up with his longsword.


    He had never been in such a wretched state before. Half his ear was torn off, one eyeball burst, covered in filth, features twisted, blood flowing down his face...


    Silin Dole was appreciating this scene...


    Ares was also watching this scene...


    No, he wasn''t watching. He was only seven, he couldn''t watch the Blood Moon Tribunal... Thank goodness...


    But he almost made it, almost left this city with Ares to start a new life...


    And the reason he ended up in this plight was because...


    Valcas did not look at the Titan Executioner. Instead, he swept his gaze across the tform, chasing after Ashe''s figure.


    Beneath the tangled and bloody hair, the only eye the elf had left flowed withplex emotions no one couldprehend.


    "Ashe...Heath..."


    He uttered the name through gritted teeth.


    Boom!


    Lightning, scorching mes, frost, acid, shockwaves, melting heat, voidification, chaos - eight different forces roared forth from the Titan Executioner''s weapons, seeming like the end of the world in an instant.


    Cracked Lake was boiling, the dark night quaking!


    Valcas appeared unaware. Gripping his longsword reverse-handed, he struggled to widen his one remaining eye, staring fixedly at Ashe, his eyeball seeming ready to burst out to bite Ashe!


    Moreover, several spirits emerged on the sword''s de, flickering!


    As judgement descended, Valcas also threw his sword!


    Ashe tried to dodge, but the crimson chains limited his movement, and Valcas''s flying sword was empowered by spirits, moving as swift as a sh of light, even changing direction!


    After throwing the sword, Valcas seemed relieved, but blood tears suddenly streamed from his muddy eyes as he softly murmured:


    "Sorry..."


    Snap!


    The instant he was swallowed by the light of judgement, Valcaspletely vanished from the world, not even leaving a single shred of remains.


    Shink!


    The sword pierced through Ashe''s throat, the tremendous momentum nearly tearing apart his neck!


    On the Red Mistcafe''s screen, Ashe with a sword through his throat had his whole body pulled taut by chains, thus he did not fall, but knelt on the ground, head raised to gaze at the blood moon, enacting a scene reminiscent of a martyred saint!


    The customers were stunned by this highly shocking scene. It wasn''t until an elven Blood Saint stood up and loudlyughed:


    "Haha! I bet that Ashe would definitely be killed by Valcas, and I was right! Drinks are on me tonight!"


    "Great!" The others stood up, "To Mr. Bell''s generosity, to the Blood Moon Tribunal''s justice - cheers!"


    Lorens also stood up and raised his ss.


    "Cheers!"


    He saw the snake boss at the counter with an expression like he was enjoying the show, and couldn''t help asking: "Boss, you lost a lot of money, how can you still be so happy?"


    "Sss, he won this time, but he''ll definitely lose it back next time. Besides, this is my bar, the money just goes back to me anyway. Also..."


    "Also?"


    The snake boss nced at the screen, "Sss, who said he won the bet?"

 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61


    Ashe picked up the towel covering his face and sat up, supporting himself with his hand.


    His first reaction was to feel his neck, but he didn''t find any scars.


    "Strange, you didn''t use me as an experimental material and operate on me."


    "I already did it," the medic [222] said without looking up, flipping through a book with his crow-like beak.


    "The surgery was very sessful. You''re a handsome guy now."


    "What!"


    Ashe hurried to find a mirror to look at himself, but there were no mirrors around. The medic chuckled, "Just kidding. Repairing your throat was too simple and didn''t take much time. So I took the chance to do a few minor surgeries on you while you were unconscious. No major remodeling."


    Ashe breathed a sigh of relief.


    "What minor surgeries did you do then?"


    "Dafi-style eye corner opening, Ebo-style brow bone adjustment, Loja-style chin reshaping, As-style natural curling of eyshes,..."


    Ashe was more and more confused as he listened.


    "How much of the old me is still left?"


    "Should be quite simr. You still have two eyes, a mouth, and a nose after all."


    "You call this ''no major remodeling''? What would count as major then? Changing my whole head?"


    "Not that extreme. Brain transnts are still quite risky. For major surgeries popr among sorcerers, at most they would change all your facial features. For example, recing your eyes with hawk eyes, teeth with shark teeth, nose with wolf nose, ears with bat ears... It''s alsomon to rece limbs and internal organs. Mechanical prosthetics are a very hot trend in enhancements recently."


    Wow, so sorcerers have already unlocked the tech tree for biological augmentations?


    No wonder Ashe saw a prisoner with rabbit ears and boar fangs. At that time he thought, how could a rabbit and boar cross species barriers to mate?


    Turns out it wasn''t the wild kind, but the sorcerer kind of wild.


    Ashe looked curiously at the medic, "Have you done such major remodeling on yourself?"


    The medic hesitated for a moment, "I guess you could say so."


    "Oh~" Ashe stared at the medic''s crow mask, "I see..."


    The medic knew what Ashe was thinking and said indignantly, "I''m not as ugly as you. My face has always been perfect, no need for recements."


    "Oh, so you didn''t rece your face." Ashe nced over the medic''s body, but the medic''s loose robes hid any telling contours.


    "What are you looking at?"


    "I''m checking if your fingers can extend into philips screwdrivers."


    "No screwdrivers, but I can lend you an ear pick if you want to try."


    "I do."


    "Enough nonsense. Here."


    The medic took out ten silver coins from his pouch and ced them on the bedside table, waving his hand.


    Ashe pointed at the pile of coins, "Why?"


    "Didn''t we agree? You let me practice surgeries on you, and I pay you. I practiced ten surgical techniques, so ten silver coins. Very reasonable."


    "No, I meant why not gold coins like before?"


    "I asked other medics about this. They all said no one pays gold coins for practice surgeries! At most some silver coins."


    "You''re too easily swayed by others. Never just blindly follow the crowd. If others eat shit, does that mean you should too?"


    "You make a good point. I actually still don''t want to pay you. I can''t fall for your tricks again-"


    "But asionally listening to others'' advice is also a good quality." Ashe quickly pocketed the silver coins.


    The medic had to smile at that, but the smile soon faded. "You''ve truly be famous this time. In the history of Caimon City, you''re the only criminal ever injured but survived the Blood Moon Tribunal."


    "The only one? No death row convict has ever been hurt by mistake during the tribunal before?"


    "There were some, but they couldn''t be saved and were directly torn apart by the executioners. A case like you, killed by another death row convict but with wounds shallow enough to be saved, that would be equivalent to viting the Life Saving Act. It''s unheard of."


    Ashe still couldn''t get used to how this world ssified injuries. A head nearly decapitated was seen as a minor wound that could be healed with just a bandage.


    "When you get out, remember to earn more contribution points somehow. Don''t get picked for the next Blood Moon Tribunal. There won''t be an elf blocking for you next time."


    Ashe looked at the medic curiously, "Why do you care so much? Did healing me make you emotionally attached?"


    "Youe to the infirmary almost every day. If the prison had a few more model inmates like you, I might be able to leave this ce after a grueling month or two."


    The medic shrugged. "Thanks to you, I''ve gotten quite proficient at many techniques."


    "When you leave, can you take me with you? At most I promise to be your experiment subject for three years, that''s a good deal right?"


    "Sure."


    "Really?"


    "If you''re willing to be packed in three different boxes and taken out that way, I have no problems. The prison would be happy to let you go too."


    Ashe clicked his tongue, "Can you piece me back together after taking me out?"


    "If I was a legendary four-winged sorcerer, I could probably manage that and even install some plugins for you."


    "Are you one then?"


    "If I was, I wouldn''t have time to chat about this crap with you."


    The medic put his hands on his hips. "And you''re still thinking about escaping? Tsk tsk, even after experiencing the Blood Moon Tribunal, you haven''t given up on such childish ideas?"


    "What fine young man doesn''t dream of escaping at night? And after seeing the tribunal firsthand, who can stay here any longer?" Ashe clenched his fist. "This prison, I''m more determined than ever to break out!"


    "Go for it, just remember to stay safe when escaping. Best if you can keep your corpse intact."


    Ashe leaned in close to the medic. "Do you have any good escape ideas?"


    The medic red at him with his beak. "Don''t think I''ll go easy on reporting you just because I made you a bit more handsome."


    "No need to be so tense. We''re just having a post-op chat since you''ve already done your work on me." Ashe waved it off casually. "Think of it as a decryption game. Pretend you were falsely charged as the leader of the Four Pirs heretics. The Inquisition doesn''t dare search your memories. You''re locked in Shattered Lake Prison. How would you n to escape?"


    "Are you really falsely charged... Nevermind, just a thought game! But I''ve heard medics aren''t that great at logical thinking. Is this game too hard for you?"


    "You think I''d fall for such childish provocation? What am I, a kid?" The medic huffed and turned his head away. "The path to escape is obvious anyway. It''s just that someone like you wouldn''t realize it."

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62


    "How you got in is how you''ll get out," said Ashe.


    Gerard nodded. "Shattered Lake Prison is located in the center of Shattered Lake. Aside from ships and flying, there are no other means of transportation. However, the nearby airspace is a military restricted zone. Any flying object will be scanned and shot down by the prison''s Lexus Rapid Fire Cannons if they don''t have clearance. The waters are also filled with swarms of finger sharks, so unless you''re a fishman, even a skilled defensive mage would have difficulty swimming out.


    "The only way to escape has always been by boarding the ship used to transport death row inmates out. Even guards and staff like me have to take that ship to and from Shattered Lake Prison, no exceptions. Supplies are also delivered when prisoners are being transported.


    "Though it''s obvious the ship would be heavily guarded and inmates have no chance of sneaking aboard, at least it provides a direction to consider instead of digging escape tunnels and disturbing the sharks'' dinner."


    Ashe asked, "Are there really no other options?"


    Gerard thought for a moment before nodding. "There is one case - if the mayor is used of serious misconduct during his term but key evidence like memory recordings can''t be found, he must immediately resign, relinquish all duties, and be temporarily confined in the nearest Blood Moon Prison - Shattered Lake Prison for Caimon City - for istion until the Heresy Court investigation concludes for him to either resume office or be imprisoned there."


    Ashe was surprised. "If no evidence is found, doesn''t that prove innocence?"


    Gerard nodded and shook his head. "Usually yes, but some magic spirits like ''Rewrite,'' ''Clip,'' and ''Erase'' can alter memories. Though memory tampering is a serious felony for both mages and subjects, shady politicians and councilors often edit their memories, which the Heresy Court can''t immediately verify as real or fake."


    "Thus, investigations on important figures will usually scan the memories of those close to them too, since others'' recollections can also provide incriminating evidence. If nothing is found, then it indicates a false usation."


    "Has a mayor been imprisoned before?" Ashe asked.


    "Around three to four times in history I believe? I only remember each time the mayor resumed office with increased fame and even won re-election afterwards."


    "So that proves the mayor was innocent?"


    "That''s the general perception," Gerard said mildly. "The process itself has no visible ws."


    "But even the best systems are executed by people."


    "Is that what you told the hunters when you got caught?"


    They quickly moved on from that topic. Cases like a mayor''s imprisonment were too rare to consider for Ashe''s ns.


    Ashe suggested a few other oundish ideas - impersonating guards, clinging to the ship''s exterior, hiding in waste barrels - which Gerard shot down while expressing disturbance at thest one.


    Their discussion was interrupted by the sound of bells chiming midnight. Gerard eximed, "It''s 12 already, hurry back to your cell! Just say treatment dyed you if guards ask, and don''t take any detours or you''ll lose contribution credits."


    Ashe nodded and donned Na''vi''s ''Shadow King'' boots, feeling they shed with his prison garb. With such cool boots, he ought to have a matching stylish outfit too, right?


    "Wait," Ashe suddenly realized something. "What time is it now?"


    "12 o''clock sharp. That was the bell signaling mages to enter the virtual world - our connection strengthens after midnight under the Blood Moon, so soul energy recovers faster there." Gerard shrugged. "But that''s irrelevant to you."


    Ashe froze as a bead of cold sweat rolled down his forehead.


    He and Iris had always agreed to enter around 10pm. So now...


    The virtual world, the Sea of Knowledge, the Isle of Inheritance.


    Zzzt zzzt zzzt -


    Thunder roared wildly, restrained by iron whips. The unbreakable whips conducted stray arcs of electricity, crystallizing sand into ss!


    "Striving for justice, I sense dreams and channel spirits."


    The lightning wielder chanted strange, cryptic poems in a hoarse voice. Bare-chested, his brown skin was covered in geometric ck tattoos. His face was hairless, eyes bloodshot. He manipted the spinning thunder whips, twin walls of lightning protecting his sides!


    Sonya gasped for breath, using her wooden sword to prop herself up. Scorched ashes still clung to her hair. She looked haggard and dim, as if the fog would swallow her any second.


    ''Will this be my first death so soon? Felix hasn''t died even once yet. If I fall behind, Professor Trotzam will see me as inferior!'' Though senior Leone said she died her second time here, who knows if that''s true...


    Sonya did not fear death itself. Dying in the virtual world was inevitable, even Metas the legendary Binding Mage of Starrealm boasted of dying twenty times - ''That''s quite low among us Four Wings.''


    To mages, virtual deaths were like taking leave from work. Undesirable but unavoidable, to be epted gracefully and used to ponder how to spend the uing break from virtual punching-in.


    Sonya knew her first death would not impact Professor Trotzam''s assessment. Early deaths were just bad luck,te ones not necessarily good.


    Some losses and lessons had to be experienced firsthand.


    But like all youths, Sonya harbored a fantasy -


    ''Maybe I can be the first undefeated mage.''


    Now on the cusp of having that dream shattered, Sonya felt no disappointment. Reaching her fourth entry before dying was already beyond 99% of mages.


    Most died on their very first visit, drowning being the mostmon - despite repeated warnings not to enter the Sea of Knowledge, the allure of gazing into its depths often proved irresistible.


    Sonya knew a quick first death said nothing about aptitude. Arriving precisely at 11pm, she found no Observer or boat, so tread water directly.


    Sitting in a boat she felt nothing, but afloat Sonya could barely resist looking down - were there fish? The seabed? Sunken treasure?


    Curiosity overflowed in mages.


    After resisting that temptation, Sonya cast her sights on the fog.


    Shouting produced no reply. epting the Observer''s absence, Sonya prepared herself - solitary exploration was routine, their joint adventures a miracle, like bringing a teacher to one''s exams!


    Yet Sonya felt no unease, rather an excitement akin to a child escaping parental supervision to explore alone.


    Soon confusion set in. Without guidance, visibility was poor. Sonya swam randomly for over an hour, more tired than harvesting wheat for her mother. She considered voluntarily exiting.


    But the virtual world rewarded effort - incredibly, her floundering uncovered an Isle of Inheritance!


    Sonya immediately epted its trial, brimming with confidence. The secret skill ''Moon Reflection'' could even counter senior Leone! She thought no region beyond her reach now.


    Then she was utterly thrashed.


    The Isle mage wielded twin nine-section steel whips. Lightning and swords both emphasized raw offense, with no elemental rtion.


    Yet at first contact, the lightning wieldershed Sonya like a spinning top.


    He used few magic spirits, but his battle experience and tactics steamrolled Sonyapletely. His whips struck as spears from afar and iron bonds up close. Attacks roared like thunder, defense stood like castle walls!


    When he spun the thunder whips, Sonya didn''t dare approach.


    Vibration swords were nullified by the whips'' shields, moon silk shredded easily. Even Moon Reflection, Sonya''s trump card, was pierced by the extended spears - for all its speed and power, the skill''s range was still too short.


    No wonder the virtual world was called the greatest teacher. Sonya had to acknowledge her limits. She''d thought swordsmanship merely a conduit for spirits, but the perfected nine-section whip skills opened her eyes - true mastery should handle any situation, unlike her current helpless iling.


    Yet Sonya did not resign herself to death.


    From the corner of her eye, she glimpsed the Isle''s edge not far behind.


    A window to flee might appear if she timed it right.


    The lightning wielder would doubtless give chase, but never leave the Isle. Sonya could only hope the seawater slowed him enough for escape. Once in safer waters, she could deploy the virtual escape portal from her spirit roster and return to reality.


    She silently swore to enroll in swimming lessons tomorrow - the doggy paddle was just too slow!


    Zzzt zzzt zzzt -


    The wielder''s right whip shifted into a thunder spear and lunged!


    Now!


    Sonya fired off a vibration sword, ready to backpedal and dive.


    But her foe predicted this - his left whip spun out, twirling through the air as a thunder boomerang to sweep Sonya''s legs!


    Toote.


    She had to jump or be bound and stunned by the electrified coils!


    But that would y right into his follow-up impaling spear!


    Her only chance was to jump higher than the spear could reach!


    Teeth gritted, Sonya pushed off with all her might, barely clearing the extended spear''s range - then the wielder twisted his wrist, detonating the spear in a spiraling thunder st! The foremost whip section elerated like a flying knife toward Sonya!


    "Damn you!" Sonya cried out, praying for a miracle.


    And one happened - she collided with something in midair, stopping short!


    What could be floating on the open sea?


    A mudskipper dragon surfacing to breathe, leading to an idental maritime crash?


    Zzzt zzzt zzzt -


    Paralyzed by impending doom, Sonya''s mind went nk, eyes instinctively squeezed shut.


    ng!


    "Hm?"


    After two seconds of continued existence, Sonya realized she still hadn''t left the virtual world. More importantly, she stood on solid footing rather than plunging into the sea. Opening an eye, she saw a sword-like aura barrier emerge before her, rippling from the whip strikes but not prated.


    ncing down revealed a familiar boat beneath her feet.


    "Lucky I''m here. You''re so fortunate."


    Turning back, Sonya saw the Observer materializing from the fog and thought -


    Damn, he equipped it.

 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63


    Zzzz zzzz -


    The Thunder Wielder recalled his flying nine-section whip, and by now the small boat had arrived at the shore, still within his attack range. He grabbed one end of the nine-section whip and swung it around,shing dark scars into the sandy ground, then abruptly took a step back.


    Seeing this, Sonya''s face turned pale. She quickly hid behind Ashe and said, "Be careful!"


    But it was toote. The Thunder Wielder strode forward and crossed his arms to swing the two nine-section thunder whips. Like scissors snapping shut, they viciously chopped towards Ashe!


    This was the vicious move that had left psychological trauma on Sonya when she was nearly whipped out of her mind. Although it couldn''t even be considered a miracle, because of the kic energy of the spinning and swinging whips and the special properties of lightning magic, its destructive power was enormous and extremely difficult to dodge. Getting hit by it would inflict pain that made the soul quiver,parable to kicking a cab and shattering your toenail in the process.


    "Quiet, you''re disturbing my contemtion of the ultimate mysteries of the world."


    Ashe raised an eyebrow and stabbed the small boat fiercely with his sword. The sword barrier enveloping them immediately glowed with faint golden light, directly shing head-on against the Thunder Wielder''s lethal thunder shears!


    Zzzz zzzz zzzz!


    The nine-section whip coiled around the outside of the sword barrier but was unable to break through the transparent shield. The long sword Ashe was leaning on, however, inexplicably cracked and broke in several ces. But due to the properties of the virtual world, the long sword quickly restored itself to its original form.


    "Adorned magnificence indulges the beauty, the dragon''s selection and the phoenix''s glory."


    The blood vessels in the Thunder Wielder''s eyes grew even more pronounced as he chanted unintelligible poetry. Lightning swirled around his entire body and his veins bulged as he seemed to enter a frenzied state. He whipped the sword barrier relentlessly with his nine-section whips.


    Calming down, Sonya observed the sword barrier carefully and immediately noticed many details she hadn''t paid attention to before. This transparent shield was actuallyposed of extremely sharp sword qi. Not only did it have defensive capabilities, it could even injure enemies at close range by reflecting attacks, breaking their weapons!


    However, this would be difficult to demonstrate in the virtual world, because weapons there were products of the sorcerer''s consciousness. As long as the sorcerer''s consciousness persisted, weapons had unlimited durability.


    Simrly, there was no distinction between superior and inferior weapons in the virtual world. Virtual world battles were contests between arcane energies, so even if Sonya materialized a wooden sword, she could still cleave mountains and crush rocks. On the other hand, artillery mages who were quite formidable in reality would see their manifested artillery''s might plummet linearly if they didn''t deeplyprehend their weapons.


    This sword barrier that incorporated both offense and defense wasn''t something a single spirit could conjure. It was a miracleposed ofposite spirits!


    Thinking of this, Sonya couldn''t help feeling somewhat vexed. She had originally wanted to show off the power and potential of her Moon Reflection on Water miracle and demonstrate herbat power, while also warning the Observer not to manipte her like that again. But now, not only had the Observer saved her, he had instantly used a miracle on par with Moon Reflection on Water!


    Was he deliberately waiting until I was in mortal danger before popping out to mess with me mentally?


    Sonya grumbled inwardly, while Ashe watched the familiar sword barrier with an inexplicable sense of irritation he couldn''t put into words.


    "Sorry, I''m in a really bad mood right now."


    Ashe raised a finger.


    "So what I''m about to do next to you is purely venting my emotions."


    ng!


    When a sword cry drowned out the thunder roar, the Thunder Wielder immediately retreated, swirling his whips into two thunder shields to block the sh of light flying through the air!


    "Heart Sword spirit!"


    Sonya immediately recognized this signature spirit of the sword arts. Her eyeballs practically bulged out. "Where did you get a Heart Sword spirit? Do you know the Heart Sword forms? Please teach me, I''m begging you!"


    She was like a child encountering their most beloved bubble gun, barely able to conceal her thirst for this spirit.


    In the sword arts, there was a legend of the ''Peerless Secret Swords Five Spirits''. It meant that possessing any one of these five spirits would allow you to build a perfect sword art system with it as the core.


    The Heart Sword spirit was one of the Peerless Secret Swords Five Spirits.


    There were also the ''Arcane Swords Twenty-One Spirits'' and ''Wondrous Swords Fifty Spirits''.


    Sonya''s Vibration Sword spirit was one of the ''Wondrous Swords Fifty Spirits''.


    However, even the lowest tier of the ''Wondrous Swords Fifty Spirits'' should not be looked down upon. The first Duke Vlozrada had relied on the Vibration Sword system to establish his status as the ''Swordsman Noble''. In Cailleach, the number of swordsmen who sold themselves to House Vlozrada just to obtain the Vibration Sword spirit was not small.


    As a sorcerer who wielded the Vibration Sword spirit and personally experienced its power and potential, how much more powerful would the superior ''Arcane Swords Twenty-One Spirits'' and ''Peerless Secret Swords Five Spirits'' be?


    Seeing the usually arrogant swordswoman so awed by him, Ashe felt quite smug. "Don''t rush, let me get rid of this circus performer first before we slowly chat."


    "Okay!"


    Sonya watched the Observer disy his prowess with great anticipation, watching the Heart Sword attack and be deflected, the Heart Sword thrust and be knocked away, the Heart Sword stab from behind and be parried...


    "Your swordsmanship has much room for improvement."


    "I''ve already worn him down and exposed many ws for you. Go on, don''t waste this revenge opportunity I specially prepared for you."


    Sonya became more and more convinced the Observer was an ancient monster revived.


    Without a few thousand years of tempering, how could anyone cultivate skin this thick?


    She silentlyined inwardly, then leapt forward to kill the Thunder Wielder. Ashe wasn''t idle either, summoning another sword-wielding doppelganger. Along with his Heart Sword, the three of them surrounded and attacked the Thunder Wielder together.


    In the end, the Thunder Wielder only had two nine-section whips. He could defend the front but not the back, defend the back but not the sides. Two whips were no match for three swords. The strong hero met an army, and with a final strange poem, he gave a mournful cry before dissipating on the spot into light smoke, leaving behind two spirits and a sorcerer''s handbook.


    ��Thunder Departing��


    ��Single-Wing Spirit��


    ��Limitation: The medium used must have a certain degree of conductivity.��


    ��Basic Effect: Unleash a bolt of lightning.��


    ��Passive Effect: The conductivity of the body gradually increases.��


    ��''Fire is the enlightener of wisdom, lightning the defender of reason. So when you encounter an unreasonable fool, you know what to do, right?''��


    ��Glyph��


    ��Single-Wing Spirit��


    ��Limitation: Glyphs must first be drawn on the object with the spirit''s excrement in advance.��


    ��Basic Effect: Cause most spirit effects to flow along the glyphs.��


    ��Passive Effect: The glyphs gradually be fixed, eventually bing inerasable.��


    ��''The path lies beneath your feet, upon your body, within your heart.''��


    ''Thunder Departing'' looked like a praying mantis, while ''Glyph'' resembled a silkworm baby. Undoubtedly, these two spiritsprised a very simple miraclebination: first draw glyphs, then let lightning flow through them, turning disposable lightning bolts into a persistent empowered state. A very simple yet practical miracle idea.


    No wonder that Thunder Wielder was covered head to toe in all kinds of chaotic tattoos - so he had etched electrical circuits into his own body!


    However,pared to this miracle, Ashe was more concerned with a certain piece of information revealed in the spirit descriptions.


    "Spirits can poop too?"


    "Why wouldn''t they? You''ve seen spirits eat gold and silver coins, right? The coins get consumed, so if spirits didn''t poop, then a link would be missing from the cirction system and there would be fewer and fewer coins in the world."


    Sonya said matter-of-factly: "It''s precisely because spirits can poop that coins can keep circting. The white silver coins you''re feeding spirits now might be poop from some spirit thousands of years ago."


    "Good thing I''m not a spirit." Ashe muttered. "So when do spirits poop? I should let them out in advance."


    "How would I know? I don''t have that kind of voyeurism hobby."


    "Huh?"


    "You don''t need to prepare in advance either. Spirits will sneak out on their own to relieve themselves when you''re not paying attention. Basically no one can discover it since their excrement blows away with a gust of wind. If you need to collect a spirit''s poop, just summon it out, feed it, then cover it with something and wait."


    "Sneak out... without the sorcerer''s permission, how can they sneak out?"


    "Spirits have their own thoughts and lives."


    Sonya shrugged. "When you need them, of course they''ll obey the sorcerer''smands, but when your consciousness isn''t focused, like when sleeping, meditating, reading, they''ll have some free rein and take the chance to sneak out for some fresh air when you''re not noticing. Some sorcerers find their spirits very slow to respond after indulging in something for a long time - that''s basically because the spirits have wandered too far to rush back in time."


    Ashe understood. So this was just cking off!


    Although he had tried his best to view spirits as intelligent beings, he hadn''t expected them to be this intelligent, even picking up human vices like cking off. But seeing as they were using their cking off time to poop instead of using pooping as an excuse to ck off, Ashe didn''t mind.


    After simple discussion, the ''Thunder Departing'' and ''Glyph''bo spirits seemed able to fetch a high price at Sonya''s school, so those two went to her.


    Neither felt any desire to keep them for personal use - the lightning elemental branch was known as the most bitter, tiring, painful and frenzied system. The thought of starting from zero to cultivate lightning arts made one shudder instinctively.


    As long as they sailed far enough in the sea of knowledge, opportunities to pick upplete spirit sets like this would arise frequently. If sorcerers tried to master every handy spirit set they came across, even endless energy wouldn''t be enough.


    Learning to prioritize was essential sorcerer training.


    Naturally, the sorcerer''s handbook went to Ashe again. Sonya took one look at the first page and outright retreated, even running to the side to retch.


    In Ashe''s opinion, it wasn''t too bad, just a ''Heretical Cult''s Sacrificial Records'', though the methods inside were somewhat cruel.


    It almost matched the evil oncemitted by Heath.


    It seemed among heretical cults, the Four Pirs heretics were an especially ferocious batch.


    After reading through the Thunder Wielder''s sacrificial records, Ashe naturally learned a new skill - ''Skinning Mastery''.


    Luckily there were no restrictions on targets, so it shoulde in handy for skinning small critters to eat when escaped into the wilderness.


    After dealing with the spoils, Ashe sat at the prow of the small boat, utterly serene.


    Sonya sat at the stern without a word.


    Even when the Inheritance Islepletely sank away, silence still reigned on the boat.


    After a long time, Sonya still couldn''t endure it and squeezed out a few words from the corner of her mouth: "Where did you get those sword spirits?"


    "Well, since you''ve sincerely asked, I can magnanimously tell you-"


    I knew it, Sonya viciously thought to herself, gave him another chance to show off!


    In fact, Ashe had been wanting to unt for a while too. Lightly clearing his throat, he extended a hand to summon three spirits. From left to right: a golden single-winged sword, a y-sculpted dual-winged swordsman, and a light green single-winged bird.


    "Heart Sword, Earth Sword, Wind Wall - these are spirits I just obtained. Heart Sword and Wind Wall are single-wing, Earth Sword is dual."


    "Just obtained? Does that mean you werete just to get these three spirits?"


    "You could say that."


    Ashe gazed into the fog''s depths, as if watching a fleeting phantom.


    "After all, their original owner had just killed me once."

 Chapter 64

    Chapter 64


    Medical Officer [222] was right.


    The Blood Moon Tribunal was indeed the only chance for death row inmates to trade spirit techniques.


    Looking at the three spirit techniques in his hand, Ashe could still see Valkas'' grim and gaunt face.


    The sword that pierced his throat contained five spirit techniques that Valkas had just dissolved the contract with.


    If Ashe had been a little slower, if his consciousness had faded a little faster, all three of these spirit techniques would have fled at the fastest speed possible by now. Even though Ashe had moved as quickly as he could, two spirit techniques still managed to escape, who knows if they were currently riding Finger Sharks and enjoying surfing freedom in Shattered Lake.


    As for why Valkas did this, there were far too many reasons.


    Because Ashe had defeated him,


    Because he wanted to get back at Professor Sylin,


    Because he was grateful for Ashe''spassion at the end,


    Or possibly just because he enjoyed causing trouble...


    As a dying elf, there was nothing Valkas did that surprised Ashe, other than getting his throat pierced by Valkas - Ashe strongly suspected this was borne out of resentment and Valkas wanted to avenge having his throat shed during their deathmatch.


    However, this action by Valkas presented Ashe with a dilemma.


    Although he hadn''t been in this world for long, Ashe was acutely aware that he didn''t belong here.


    Yet, he also had no intention of assimting.


    He couldn''t change the world of sorcerers, nor did he want the world of sorcerers to change him.


    There was no family here, only strangers he would meet in the future.


    Even though the powers of sorcerers were unpredictable and bizarre, it wasn''t impossible that a spirit technique miracle could send Ashe home, but he didn''t hold out much hope for that.


    He wasn''t the sort of person who needed hope just to survive.


    Plus with the life-threatening Blood Moon Tribunal and the suffocating absolute control of Shattered Lake Prison, Ashe had always held a mentality of ''living one day at a time''.


    After all, if he could cross over once, who''s to say he couldn''t cross over a second time? Arriving in the sorcerer''s world this time, maybe next time he would end up in the technician''s world - Ashe was blindly optimistic about his adventures across the heavens.


    Precisely because of this optimistic mentality, possibly generated from suddenly not having to go to work anymore, Ashe held an ''observer'' attitude towards everyone he met. He would sympathize with other people''s plights,ment their life and death, but then forget about it immediately, as if he had just watched a movie.


    Observer, this name was quite fitting for him.


    Observing without acting, observing without speaking, observing without remembering.


    He was like a drifting lone boat, going with the flow of the waves, intimidated by the sight ofnd.


    And now, the boat had gained some baggage, his memories marked by an imprint.


    Although sorcerers didn''t need to sleep, Ashe felt that he would certainly dream of Valkas'' final gaze when he had nightmares.


    Of course he didn''t think he needed to take any responsibility for Valkas'' death, but Valkas'' parting giftpelled Ashe to do something in return as gratitude.


    He didn''t like owing people, nor owing favors.


    He had to escape from prison, he had to find Professor Sylin, he had to survive.


    Otherwise, it would feel like he had failed Valkas'' goodwill, failed the three spirit techniques he had bestowed.


    Perhaps this was his true revenge?


    Sacrificing his life as the ritual, using death as the ceremony, silence as the incantation, spirit techniques as the bait, Valkas exhausted everything, cursing Ashe to live on.


    For them, the Shattered Lake death row inmates, there was no more vicious curse than ''to live''.


    "He was a true swordsmage. "


    After listening to Ashe''s surreal Blood Moon Tribunal experience tonight, Sonya couldn''t help but sigh, then added: "And a generous good elf."


    "He was generous, but definitely not a good elf. He was locked up in Shattered Lake Prison for good reason after all," Ashe said: "But elves and humans alike, cannot be simply divided into ''good'' and ''bad''. Only gods or devils can possess pure goodness or evil... The ones wavering in between, those are humans."


    "So many sentiments, is this the first time you''ve seen a dead person since losing your memory?"


    Losing his memory? That''s right, former Ashe had personally caused many deaths... Ashe nodded: "You could say it''s the first time I''ve seen someone die right in front of me."


    "So you don''t have any intelligence on the Heart Sword stance either?"


    "Of course not."


    "Damn it!" Sonya looked at the Heart Sword spirit technique in Ashe''s hand resentfully: "Such a good spirit technique, wasted in your hands... But doesn''t this mean you only need one more spirit technique for your Severing Miracle?"


    "That''s right, if we''re lucky, we may be able to gather all the required spirit techniques tonight."


    Ashe let out a soft sigh: "Only then is there a glimmer of hope for escape."


    The Severing Miracle needed three types of spirit techniques, with multiple options for each type, not restricted to any specific spirit technique. Most miracles could achieve simr effects by substituting spirit techniques of the same category, with differences only in the strength and scope.


    If spirit techniques were building blocks, then miracles were buildings of a certain appearance. As long as you could construct the building, whether with cubes, triangles or cones, it would count as achieving the miracle.


    Heart Sword and Body Double were spirit techniques that met the criteria, with Body Double being average and Heart Sword overkill, the creators of the Severing Miracle probably never imagined someone would be extravagant enough to use one of the ''Peerless Hidden Swords Five Spirits'' as aponent spirit technique.


    As long as they found thest type of spirit technique, Ashe would be able to use the Severing Miracle to purify the Chip on his neck.


    "Escape..." Sonya murmured: "So your real body is in the prison of the Blood Moon Kingdom, under threat from the Blood Moon Tribunal, and without your former memories..."


    Without his former memories? Hmm, it was true he didn''t have Ashe''s former memories.


    Ashe looked at her strangely: "Didn''t you already know? My real body was identified as the cult leader of the Four Pirs heresy, and captured by the hunters after holding an illegal gathering in the basement, though this frail body was clearly just a scapegoat."


    That''s right, the Observer had told her before that he was locked up in some prison, she had assumed it was some hidden mystical dungeon, she didn''t expect it to be a prison in the Blood Moon Kingdom - although the Blood Moon Kingdom was also just a term that only existed in books, it was at least something she had heard of, giving Sonya a feeling of ''so much for that''.


    "With your abilities, you can''t even escape from a Blood Moon Kingdom prison?"


    "What do you mean my abilities - don''t you know I''m useless?"


    "Haha, useless? A useless person who could force me to challenge Leone? What does that make me then, a pitiful thing controlled by a useless person? A toy that could be tricked to death by you anytime?"


    Although she had learned the Moon Reflection miracle from that misfortune, Sonya was still furious.


    Challenging Felix was one thing, after all the gap between Felix and her wasn''t too big, she at least had a slim chance. But this time the gap between Leone and her was simply outrageous. If Leone hadn''t deliberately shown mercy, Sonya wouldn''t even have had the chance to use Moon Reflection.


    She was lucky to meet Leone this time, but what about next time?


    And the time after?


    There were no shortage of ruthless experts among the sorcerermunity. Student-level young sorcerers were still manageable, but many older sorcerers, after experiencing so much danger and death during their long and lonely explorations of the virtual world, had their conscience whittled into twisted shapes by the frigid winds of the sea of knowledge.


    They gradually lost the ability to distinguish between reality and the virtual world. Facing enemies, they would subconsciously strike ruthlessly, as if killing the enemy would make loot burst out, and some even degenerated into "Lost Souls", treating reality as the virtual world and massacring everywhere.


    Although Sonya objected to the forced training, she could at least convince herself it was for her own good and ept it, but now the Observer actually made her voluntarily participate in dangerous battles, at this point Sonya could only convince herself to at least refrain from smashing the Observer''s head in first - because it seemed she might not beat him.


    "Is it really that serious..." Ashe tried to equivocate.


    "I''m the one fighting life and death battles, I''m the one getting injured, I''m the one facing death, so I''m the only one with the right to say how serious it is!" Sonya suppressed her anger as much as possible: "Are you going to wait until you see my corpse to sigh ''Looks like I misjudged''?"


    Surely it wasn''t that serious, it''s not like you would actually die... Just as Ashe didn''t take it too seriously, a thought popped up in his mind: would the Swordswoman really not die?


    There were precedents of game characters dying and reviving when defeated in the mobile game, who''s to say thepany wouldn''t implement this to try and milk yers for revival coins or something.


    Also, the Swordswoman had stated multiple times that she wasn''t attached to Ashe''s existence, she had her own life and university she attended, friends she knew - she existed in reality. And reality was the furthest thing from immortality.


    Even if the Swordswoman could revive after dying in battle, would that revived Swordswoman still be the same person who had spent days getting to know him?


    Ashe couldn''t take the risk of losing the Swordswoman.


    And not just because of her strength.


    More because the Swordswoman was the only one he could trust and confide in.


    Even the smallest boat would feel too spacious for one person.


    "Alright, you make a good point, I apologize." Ashe carefully chose his words: "But you should know, I only want what''s best for you. If not for my arrangements, you wouldn''t have created the Moon Reflection miracle so quickly, right?"


    "What does that have to do with your arrangements - "


    "Because I knew that when you fought that, uh, Leone, you would enter an awakened state due to the overwhelming difference in strength, thus creating your own miracle, and you wouldn''t be in any danger. Everything was within my ns."


    "You clearly even got her name wrong!"


    "That''s not important - the key is that I was confident in letting you obtain great benefits by only paying a small price."


    Seeing that the Swordswoman still looked uneasy, Ashe thought for a moment, then said: "How about this, in the future if I want to arrange for you to participate in battles that are higher risk, I''ll discuss it with you beforehand, alright?"


    Now that was more like it.


    Seeing the Observer finally willing topromise, Sonya was already very satisfied. In fact, even if the Observer insisted on messing with her, she was powerless against him. And since he had backed down once, there would certainly be a second time. Eventually Sonya would have the Observerpletely obedient.


    She was also at ease with the Observer''s promise. Although the Observer was usually unreliable, he could be counted on when it mattered. Plus there was his alleged reincarnation background, his judgement and foresight should be decent.


    If Sonya knew Ashe''s method of judging danger levels was just reading the event card descriptions, and the duel with Leone was only rated medium danger, she probably would never feel at ease again.


    "Speaking of which, how did you find me?" Sonya suddenly recalled this matter.


    "I entered the virtual world through the Truth Gate you left behind, then traced you all the way here. "


    Returning to his quarters, Ashe opened the light screen and as expected, the Swordswoman hadn''t waited for him, her status showed ''Exploring Virtual World''.


    Ashe had assumed he missed the ride, but fortunately there was still the ''Join Midway'' option, although not appearing directly by the Swordswoman''s side, instead starting from the location she had entered the virtual world from tonight.


    Entering and leaving the virtual world had to be through Truth Gates, that was the rule. Without bonded connections, Ashe wouldn''t have been able to pass through the Truth Gate left behind by the Swordswoman and sneak into the virtual world.


    Sonya wasn''t surprised that the Observer knew where she was, she just had one doubt: "But I wandered the virtual world for nearly two hours, how did you catch up so quickly?"


    "Two hours? But you were only one region away from the starting point, I sailed over in just over a minute."


    "How''s that possible!?"


    "Why would I lie to you? Wait, you said you wandered for two hours, could it be that you..." Ashe blinked, "Were going in circles around this area the whole time?"


    Sonya blinked, calmly sat down, gazed at the distant fog sidewards and said: "I was just exploring the vicinity because I figured you wouldn''t be absent for no reason."


    I''d almost believe you if your ears weren''t blushing red.


    Ashe snorted, then opened up the virtual world map under Sonya''s resentful stare.


    With the Virtual World Telescope equipped, he could now observe information about the 24 surrounding grids, most were ""Don''t Waste Your Effort", one was "Worth Checking Out", Ashe was in no hurry, leisurely sailing around taking in the sights.


    "What about the miracle you used just now?" Sonya suddenly recalled, "Valkas gave you spirit techniques, but no miracle form right?"


    Ashe casually replied: "I saw him use it once before, justbined Ground Sword and Wind Barrier. But I''m not a dual-wing sorcerer, so the defensive power is far lower than his original version."


    Saw it once,bined it a bit, and it worked?


    Is creating a miracle really so simple?


    Ground Sword was a sword technique and Wind Barrier was a wind technique. Cross-system miracles had always been very difficult...


    Sonya felt something was off, at this time Ashe discovered a shing golden legendary hint on the map - "Maelstrom".


    "Do you know what Maelstrom means?"


    Sonya was startled: "You found a Maelstrom?"


    "Probably - "


    "Go, hurry over there!" Sonya rushed up instantly, grabbed Ashe and shook him violently, excited as if she had found a winning lottery ticket in the toilet: "If we''re lucky, we may be able to condense the Silver Wings tonight!"

 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65


    The whirlpool, also known as the destiny shortcut, the stairway of advancement, and thest stroke of luck for the cursed, is an extremely rare natural wonder in the sea of knowledge.


    Natural wonders arepletely different from other existences in the virtual world. Knowledge creatures have habitats, legacy inds and adventure inds remain unchanged for thousands of years unless a sorcerer steps in, while natural wonders appear randomly in time and location, and disappear after a period of time, almost like the most made-up rumor in the legends of the virtual world.


    Even the most unlucky sorcerer would eventually encounter knowledge creatures, legacy inds, and adventure inds in their lifetime, while even the luckiest sorcerer may never encounter a whirlpool in their entire life, truly the ultimate luck detector.


    The reason why those who have seen a whirlpool are so envied and jealous is the whirlpool''s tremendous power - virtual world transfer!


    Sorcerers who step into the whirlpool will emerge from another whirlpool somewhere else in the sea of knowledge.


    Although it sounds incredible, a simple spatial transfer, how could it arouse the sorcerers'' craving?


    This is because the whirlpool does not simply transfer, but allows the sorcerer to pass through the mysterious passage in the whirlpool, traversing countless areas of the sea of knowledge in just a few seconds; at the same time, the basic rule of "the farther the sorcerer sails in the sea of knowledge, the more arcane energy they absorb" does not fail either!


    If two whirlpools are separated by ten thousand miles, then the sorcerer only needs to pass through this whirlpool passage, which is equivalent to sailing ten thousand miles in the sea of knowledge, directly absorbing enough arcane energy to condenseplete silver wings!


    How could this not drive the sorcerers crazy?


    In theory, an ordinary sorcerer only needs two to three years of sailing to condense the silver wings, but the premise is that the sorcerer does not die in the sea of knowledge - in addition to the "death cooldown" where the more arcane energy, the greater the death penalty, sorcerers actually have a Damocles sword hanging over their heads: the more arcane energy, the greater the danger sorcerers will encounter!


    Every time sorcerers open the Gate of Truth and enter the virtual world, the locations they descend to are actually different, not the end point of the previous exploration.


    The more abundant the sorcerer''s arcane energy, the closer theirnding point in the virtual world is to the core areas of the sea of knowledge. The legacy inds and knowledge creatures in the core areas not only burst out more generous spoils, but are also more dangerous!


    Countless formal sorcerers, on the verge of condensing the silver wings, were attacked by knowledge creatures as soon as they entered the virtual world, and when they turned to flee, they encountered even more ferocious knowledge creatures, getting taken care of by several knowledge creatures in turns, happily exiting the virtual world directly.


    Exploring for a few minutes and cooling down for more than ten days is often the true portrayal of these "half-step grandmasters".


    Therefore, the whirlpool is jokingly referred to as "thest stroke of luck for the cursed": not only referring to the sorcerer who encounters the whirlpool exhausting the luck of their lifetime, but also referring to the suddenly increased arcane energy making it quite difficult for the sorcerer to explore the high-risk areas of the sea of knowledge, and may even be beaten into depression by ying ranked matches in high elo after being in low elo.


    That said, no sorcerer would not crave the whirlpool. And in ces with arge enough sorcerer poption, whirlpool lucky ones will asionally appear one or two - for example, the senior who beat up Sonya this morning, Leone, her speed of condensing the silver wings was indeed a bit fast, and many students felt that she had encountered a short-distance whirlpool, everyone was so jealous they turned sour!


    After listening to Sonya''s introduction, Ashe was also excited. He was the one who needed strength most urgently now, and the more powerful he became, the more hope he had of breaking out of prison!


    Also, with the sudden addition of three spirit weapons, his arcane energy was clearly insufficient.


    The sword heart and wind wall were fine, but the earth sword spirit was a two-winged spirit weapon, consuming arcane energy like a gushing faucet, but its effect was less than one-fifth of its potential.


    Just now Ashe was able to show off in front of the swordswoman, creating an imprable sword wall that the Fulgurator could not break through, but the price was that his arcane energy was now less than one-fifth, and he would have to think about how to trick the swordswoman into fighting harderter.


    The boat passed throughyers of mist, and soon the whirlpool appeared before them.


    True to its reputation as a natural wonder, the whirlpool was indeed very strange - although it was a swirling vortex that kept spinning, the surrounding waters were as calm as spectators,pletely undisturbed by the whirlpool.


    Even when the boat was less than two meters away from the whirlpool, it did not feel any traction. If a sorcerer with poor eyesight passed by the whirlpool, they might not even notice the natural wonder next to them.


    "Go, go quickly, the whirlpool can disappear at any time!"


    "Wait."


    Ashe noticed that when they entered the whirlpool area, the exploration range of the map suddenly extended two very long routes, and at the farthest ends of the two routes, there were two tips: "Wait a moment" and "No danger but you may not get teleported here randomly".


    "I think we''d better wait a moment."


    "Is this the effect of your detection ability?"


    "This whirlpool seems to randomly lead to two other whirlpools, one of which requires waiting, the other is safe."


    Since waitingst time allowed them to take advantage of the sleeping fox dragon, Sonya naturally believed the Observer''s judgment.


    However, after waiting for more than ten seconds, she saw the whirlpool getting smaller and smaller, and couldn''t help getting anxious: "Being able to enter the whirlpool once is worth it even if you die! It''s just not being able to enter the virtual world for a few days!"


    Ashe nced at her, "If I can''t enter the virtual world for a few days, the probability of me gathering all the Miracle spirits of sh Sword will be even more slim."


    Sonya was speechless.


    Compared to life, the increase in arcane energy was indeed negligible, but...


    She looked at the shrinking whirlpool, hesitant to speak.


    "Do you want to go in first yourself? Let me wait until it''s safe to go in?" Ashe saw her thoughts at a nce, "It sounds feasible, but it actually won''t work - did you forget? I can''t open the Gate of Truth in prison, if you die, I still can''t enter the virtual world. You and I are bound together, we prosper and suffer together. "


    "However, I''m not sure if my judgment is correct either, after all there''s a 50% chance it will lead to a safe whirlpool, and even if we''re unlucky and it randomly leads to a dangerous whirlpool, it may not necessarily lead to death. But missing the whirlpool is really missing it."


    "If you want to go, I don''t mind."


    "You really don''t mind?"


    "I don''t mind."


    "You won''t secretly resent me and take revenge on me?"


    "I won''t."


    "You won''t suddenly bring this up to use me someday?"


    "I won''t."


    "Really?"


    "Really."


    "Observer, you are so dishonest, even deceiving a college girl like me." Sonya sighed, lowered her head dejectedly and stared at the whirlpool: "If we really miss this whirlpool, I will definitely bring up this old incident every time you do something wrong in the future."


    "I really don''t mind."


    "I don''t believe it, if it were me I would resent it for the rest of my life, and still remember on my deathbed that I missed a whirlpool opportunity."


    Ashe was speechless: "That''s you, not me, I''m not as...petty as you."


    "I only believe in myself, so I believe you are that kind of person too."


    Sonya pouted.


    "I''m not selfish enough to think others are selfless. Anyway, I''ll remember that I made a big sacrifice to apany you this time, you''d better write it down in your little notebook and remember to give me a share of any benefits you get in the future."


    Ashe was slightly startled, and suddenly felt that he had another reason to break out of prison.


    Were there really no strangers worth caring about in this world? It didn''t seem so.


    "Of course, in the future whenever I have a piece of meat to eat, I will definitely call you over to smell the aroma."


    "You little chatterbox..."

 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66


    "Urgh..."


    In the meditation chamber, Felix let out a muffled groan as he clutched his stomach and pinched his nose, with crimson blood flowing out ceaselessly and cold sweat covering his entire forehead.


    His abdomen was filled with the feeling of death.


    Yet it was not pain, but emptiness.


    It was as if a gap had suddenly appeared between his upper and lower body. Even as he hugged his stomach, it felt like he was hugging a piece of pork,pletely devoid of the sensation of touching his own body.


    This was the aftereffect of death in the virtual world - severe damage to the soul, to the point of losing senses from reality.


    With a faint wail, the red gemstone on Felix''s ne shattered explosively, and a spirit entityposed of radiance and a single wing dissipated in the air.


    This was the artifact spirit ''Dragon Belly Scale'', whose effect was to transfer all death damage suffered in the virtual world to the abdomen. It was also the secret behind the enduring prosperity of the Vlozrada family.


    When a sorcerer dies in the virtual world, the lethal blow they suffer feeds back onto their soul, causing loss of soul energy.


    With an iplete soul, it bes impossible to cross the Gate of Truth. Naturally, the sorcerer would be unable to enter the virtual world until their soul energy recovers.


    Moreover, the soul is intrinsically tied to the body. No matter which part of the soul energy is lost, it would cause the sorcerer to suffer temporary ''disabilities of the soul''.


    Simply put, if it was the chest region of the soul that was damaged, the sorcerer''s heart would maintain a low heart rate for an extended period, rendering them unable to engage in any physical exertion.


    If it was the limbs that were damaged, the sorcerer would likely lose control over their hands and feet.


    And if it was the head that was damaged, the sorcerer would directly lose consciousness.


    Only when the soul energy recovers would the sorcerer''s bodily functions also recover to normal.


    Thus, for many sorcerers, the seemingly unchallenging goal of sailing the Sea of Knowledge for thousands of miles is in fact an unreachable horizon - not every sorcerer can take time off for cultivation. Aside from worrying about the far future, they have to tend to the present trivialities of life too. Each death in the virtual world would result in massive losses for the sorcerer.


    While death and soul damage are unavoidable, sorcerers still rack their brains to minimize the losses as much as possible.


    For example, concentrating all death damage onto a non-critical body part each time.


    The ''Dragon Belly Scale'' was the Vlozrada family''s secret miraculous technique, allowing family sorcerers to extract the miraculous effect and seal it into a gemstone, forming a temporary ''artifact spirit''. When a family sorcerer dies in the virtual world, the ''artifact spirit'' in the gemstone would activate, transferring all death damage onto the abdomen.


    Other than a sharp decline in gastrointestinal functions, forcing the sorcerer to subsist on liquid food for days, there would barely be any price to pay.


    On top of that, the Vlozrada family also had another miracle called ''Dragon''s Banquet'', which could swiftly recover soul energy in the abdomen through eating, reducing the cooldown before re-entering the virtual world.


    With these two miracles, Vlozrada family sorcerers could minimize losses from virtual world deaths, greatly enhancing exploration efficiency and increasing the frequency of Gold Wing and Saint Realm Three Wings sorcerers. This was the foundation for the family''s enduring prosperity over hundreds of years.


    The other duke families also had simr means - an excellent sorcerer nurturing system was practically a given for century-old noble families. Otherwise, just a single break in session could spell the end of a once illustrious ster noble family.


    Before the virtual world, sorcerers were equal, but some sorcerers could fight for more equality.


    Even so, reducing death penalties was the limit - unavoidable losses would still ur.


    Felix took an inward look at his spirit and nearly fainted from shock.


    The Murderous Sword spirit - gone!


    When sorcerers die in the virtual world, they have a high chance of losing spirits. This is because spirits are hidden within the soul. When part of the soul energy is lost due to death, the missing portion might just contain a certain spirit, causing it to dissipate along with the energy.


    The more spirits one has, the higher the chance and quantity of spirits lost!


    Despite mentally preparing himself to lose spirits, Felix had not expected to lose his most important Murderous Sword spirit on his very first death!


    That was the heirloom his mother left him, rumored to be one of the ''Twenty-One Mysterious Swords''!


    A spirit of this level was practically impossible to obtain through purchase. Even if it could be bought, there was no way the out-of-favor noble scion Felix could afford it!


    Moreover, he had yet to fully grasp the knowledge within the Murderous Sword. In other words, he could not summon the Murderous Sword by himself!


    The one thing that gave Felix somefort was that his Silver Wings were already half-formed, shortening his cultivation time by over a year.


    He also did not expect to encounter the natural wonder of the Maelstrom barely days after entering the virtual world.


    No sorcerer would miss out on such an opportunity, let alone the power-hungry avenger Felix. But after traversing thousands of miles through the maelstrom, what appeared before Felix was an adolescent Swordfish Dragon!


    In the Virtual Lifeform Compendium, Swordfish Dragons were already considered a stronger tier. Let alone an adolescent one!


    Virtual lifeforms were divided into several stages like infancy, adolescence, maturity, prime, etc. In the outer seas of the Sea of Knowledge, usually only infant forms appear. Adolescent forms only show up in the inner seas, with mature forms having a chance to appear in the core seas. As for prime forms, they would not be found within the Sea of Knowledge.


    Knowing that death was certain, Felix went all out in a life-or-death struggle to kill the Swordfish Dragon first. But in the end, with too few spirits and inadequate skills, Felix suffered a grievous loss under the sharp fins of the Swordfish Dragon despite inflicting heavy injuries on it.


    "Lost the Murderous Sword, half-formed the Silver Wings..."


    Felix sighed. It was hard to say if it was a gain or loss.


    Arcane energy was naturally of utmost importance to sorcerers, but to Felix and his current predicament, the Murderous Sword was his lifeline - without its assistance, he would not have dodged so many assassination attempts.


    "But this way, I can inherit more of my mother''s legacy."


    Felix''s expression darkened as he clenched his fists. "Just you wait, Bessel. One day, I''ll make you kneel before my mother and apologize..."


    Due to physical frailty, in addition to not moving at all for the entire night, her chest felt a little ufortable and she was unable to breathe smoothly. Anyway, there was no one else in the meditation chamber, so she loosened her breast binder and let the two big white rabbits bounce out to breathe the fresh air. Shepletely rxed and rested against the wall for a good while.


    After half an hour, Felix left the meditation building and stepped into the dazzling sunlight.


    However, having just gone through his first death, Felix suddenly lost control of his lower body after walking for a bit. He staggered and nearly fell, quickly using his sword case to support himself.


    "Oh? Young master Vlozrada, why the foul mood so early in the morning, taking it out on the ground?"


    A hand reached out from behind and pressed down on Felix''s shoulder, helping steady his stance.


    ncing back, Felix said calmly, "You seem to be in good spirits, reaped quite a harvest?"


    Sonia walked briskly past him with her head held high and eyebrows raised. "I suppose you could say that. This afternoon at Professor Trotzam''s office, you''ll find out."


    Uppity bitch.


    While Sonia''s swordsmanship talent was undoubtedly one in ten thousand, Felix could also see her character ws - vain, insecure yet arrogant, clever but unwise... Without her talent in swordsmanship, Sonia would be no different from those vulgar female sorcerers he had met.


    And now, she was at most a talented yet boorish country girl.


    How very...enviable.


    Others might think Felix was a genius at swordy too, but he knew clearly that without the help of his mother''s ''Emotional Resonance'' spirit, he would not have been able to cultivate the Vibration Frame stance to the level of summoning spirits so quickly.


    He had paid a heavy price for it too - back then, with no arcane energy, just to catalyze the ''Emotional Resonance'' spirit he could only keep changing girlfriends to stimte the spirit''s resonance. As a result, he was notorious to the point of bing an embarrassment to the Vlozradas.


    But it was different now.


    After traversing the maelstrom, Sonia had been left far behind and had no right to be his rival.


    His goal should be the orange dancer Leone, and those monsters at Trinity College��


    "Hm?"


    Felix sensed a familiar flow.


    He looked up and noticed many students secretly watching Sonia.


    The news of Sonia ''defeating'' Leone had spread through every sorcerer university in Cailleach yesterday. Without a doubt, Sonia had be the most attention-grabbing student, and she seemed to relish in the limelight too, maintaining a pretense of aloofness as she sauntered off unhurriedly.


    Yet Felix felt that from such attention, Sonia seemed able to draw a kind of energy that was most familiar to him!


    ''Blindsight'' spirit, activate!


    Felix closed his eyes. In that instant, the world disappeared before him. Within the dark void, he saw wisps of blood-red mist flowing into Sonia''s location!


    That was killing intent!


    And the passive effect of the Murderous Sword was precisely absorbing killing intent directed at its wielder!


    While there were many spirits that could absorb killing intent, Felix knew not why, but he was absolutely certain Sonia had just obtained a new Murderous Sword spirit!


    Could it be that the Murderous Sword she got was the one taken from me by the Swordfish Dragon?


    This thought had barely surfaced when Felix rejected it - how could it be such a coincidence?


    Moreover, his battle against the Swordfish Dragon took ce near the maelstrom. If it really was such a coincidence, wouldn''t it mean Sonia had traversed the maelstrom too? But Felix clearly saw the maelstrom shrink to the point of nearly vanishing before his death.


    Sonia must have simply gotten lucky and obtained another wild Murderous Sword spirit.


    Felix was so envious he felt hungry - that was another side effect of soul damage. Any fluctuation in his emotions would directly feedback onto his abdominal organs. Positive emotions sated his hunger while negative ones made him ravenous, yet he could not indulge in rich foods or risk constipation.


    After calming down, Felix considered if there was a way to obtain Sonia''s Murderous Sword.


    But he soon shook his head.


    If stealing, Sonia had Professor Trotzam backing her.


    If buying, there were countless others who wanted the Murderous Sword and hecked the capital topete.


    Yet the Murderous Sword was of utmost importance to him. While having no hope was one thing, having a chance to salvage his loss before his eyes...


    Felix gritted his teeth and opened his eyes, yelling loudly at Sonia who had not gone far,


    "Sonia!"

 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67


    Shattered Lake Prison, Blood Moon Nation


    "When hurt enough, take a pair of hands, sh away the curses of yesterday. Wait for daylight in the night, leaving behind only scars..."


    Igor awoke from the velvet bed, yawning as he went to the bathroom to take off his pajamas and nightcap. He first tested the temperature with his toes before lying in the bathtub filled with warm water on timer, enjoying afortable morning bath.


    Just to be able to bathe anytime, Igor paid the price of 1 contribution point per 3 days to live in this luxury dormitory. As such, his contribution points were quite tight, after all living here for five months would cost 50 points, equal to the total initial contribution points of a death row inmate.


    However, he felt it was worth it, because bathing was not only Igor''s hobby, but also seemed to be the hobby of his ''Contract'' spirit.


    Once while bathing, Igor fell asleep due to exhaustion. In his dim consciousness, he vaguely saw the ''Contract'' spirit riding a rubber duck, ying in the bathtub.


    Although the ''Contract'' spirit immediately disappeared without a trace when Igor opened his eyes, as if it had never appeared, Igor was convinced of his judgment that the ''Contract'' spirit really enjoyed bathing.


    If this was outside, it would at most be an amusing topic of idle chat, with no practical significance.


    Although spirits were undoubtedly intelligent and had their own moods and preferences, most mages rarely paid attention to the spirits'' situation. After all, as long as the arcane energy output was sufficient, the spirits had to obey the mage''smands regardless of their unwillingness.


    However, in Shattered Lake Prison, where no one could output arcane energy, whether the death row inmates could evoke the spirits'' resonance became a very critical factor in order to cast spells!


    Although Igor still could not confirm whether his near 100% sess rate in evoking the ''Contract'' spirit in prison had anything to do with him frequently bathing to please the ''Contract'' spirit.


    But better safe than sorry, the prison was no ce for research. As long as Igor had surplus contribution points, he would not change this slightly ''extravagant'' way of life.


    After resting in the bathtub for a while, Igor got up without putting on any clothes, wiped himself dry and went to wash up directly. He tried to empty his mind, not think of anything, making himself dull and nk as he mechanically brushed his teeth in front of the mirror. He brushed very hard, with toothpaste foam sttering onto the mirror.


    Soon, the toothpaste foam that sttered on the mirror flowed along the mirror in winding trails, forming words.


    This meant that Igor had sessfully evoked his other spirit, ''Insight''.


    The ''Insight'' spirit was spoils of war Igor had found in the virtual world before. It had very wide versatility, you could say before doing anything you could first evoke the ''Insight'' spirit to check the situation, and then the surroundings would change, giving you some useful reminders.


    After being imprisoned, Igor had tried many methods before finding the right way to evoke the ''Insight'' spirit: Empty the mind as much as possible when brushing teeth, but notpletely empty, still maintaining a little thought like ''I want advice'', in order to evoke the spirit''s resonance.


    The bnce was difficult to grasp, and Igor didn''t seed every day either. He was lucky today.


    But Igor only treated this process as a little diversion in prison life, because most of the suggestions given by ''Insight'' were trivial things like "Don''t eat oily food for lunch", "Remember to bring tissue", "Don''t wear underwear".


    These suggestions were indeed useful, but only a little bit useful.


    Even if Igor ignored them, there would be no real harm.


    But this was also normal, after all Igor had never studied prophecy, being able to utilize the ''Insight'' spirit to this extent was already not bad.


    If someday the ''Insight'' spirit gave a very stern warning, Igor would be scared instead - because that would mean Igor had arrived at an extremely important fateful fork in the road, with the unknown veil of intertwining destinies right before his eyes, to the point that even the ''Insight'' spirit reacted!


    Like, right now!


    In Igor''s gradually horrified eyes, the toothpaste foam left a ghastly white warning on the mirror:


    "Do not respond! Do not respond!"


    This was the first time Igor had seen punctuation marks in the prompts, and even exmation marks!


    He quickly calmed down and considered whether he should follow the insight''s guidance.


    Because the insight''s guidance was not always correct.


    Or rather, the concepts of "right and wrong, pros and cons" were themselves cultural concepts of human society, very private and obscure. The same thing could be viewed differently by different regions, races, and even individuals, for example "sleeping in". Some people felt it was bad, while others enjoyed it very much.


    For such a small matter as "sleeping in", it was fine, but even for big matters like "life and death", many people had differing views. Some thought dying young led to reincarnation sooner, some felt a miserable life was better than a good death, some people wanted to die at times and to live at other times.


    When humans themselves could not distinguish between right and wrong, good and bad, how could spirits make the distinction?


    Therefore, the guidance given by ''Insight'' was often extremely short-sighted. It used the mage''s current state as the benchmark - any idental change to the mage''s current state was judged as harmful.


    For example, on the day ''Insight'' suggested "Don''t wear underwear", a guard came to Igor, wanting to consult him on how to pursue girls, since Igor was handsome and charming, and had some subus bloodline - at a nce he was a womanizer.


    That guard had delicate features, and also long hair, giving off an indescribably androgynous and bewitching aura. Although Igor''s sexual orientation was still normal, his subus bloodline not only made him omnivorous but also easily aroused, and he ended up scaring the guard away by getting excited, missing the opportunity to establish good rtions.


    Now ''Insight'' was warning him "Do not respond" - could this make him miss another chance to establish close ties with the guards?


    But Igor soon made up his mind - better safe than sorry!


    After all, he was living quitefortably now. Other than not having the freedom to curse, he was not really badly off, eating well, sleeping well, regr routine, recreational facilitiesplete.


    Moreover, he had been imprisoned for over a year now.


    Prison was a strange ce. At first, you detested it;ter, you got used to it; in the end, you couldn''t leave it.


    Igor had already grown ustomed to this kind of life, and had no motivation to change reality.


    Funnily enough, when watching the live Blood Moon Tribunalst night, Igor felt a surge of disgust when the death row inmates cursed. That was not disdain for vulgarities, but rather a subconscious feeling that "foulnguage is wrong".


    Igor the "Fraud" who specialized in exploiting legal loopholes, was gradually bing a supporter of thew. When you get used to shackles, you start to recognize and even glorify the meaning of shackles - this was the significance of Shattered Lake Prison, this was the might of the chip modifications.


    Leaving his room, Igor walked briskly to the cafeteria, determined to not utter a word outside, ignoring anyone who looked for him. He would finish breakfast then go back to his room.


    He also considered directly spending contribution points to order meals and hiding in his room the whole day. But because he had lost to Ashe once before, his contribution points were a little tight, unnecessary spending like meals should still be conserved as much as possible.


    Igor didn''t believe he couldn''t keep quiet during a meal!


    Igor found a corner to sit with his tray, but the next second someone sat opposite him.


    "Good morning my friend Igor! Wow, your lobster balls look great, may I have one?"


    The corner of Igor''s mouth twitched, he silently watched Ashe use the rtively rare chopsticks to pick up a lobster ball.


    However, Ashe didn''t seem very skilled either, unable to pick it up, the lobster ball flew out of the te, onto the table.


    Ashe blinked, tried again, still unable to grab it, flying out again.


    On the third try, he finally urately picked up the lobster ball, then put it back into Igor''s te before picking up another clean lobster ball to eat.


    "You don''t mind right?"


    The corner of Igor''s mouth spasmed, but he still didn''t speak, only ate faster.


    While eating, Ashe made a very exaggerated gesture and knocked over his cup, spilling milk all over the table, dripping onto his clothes.


    "Ah sorry sorry, let me wipe you, okay?"


    Ashe used napkins to wipe Igor''s clothes. Igor silently pushed his hand away and directly went into the cafeteria''s restroom.


    After washing the milk stains off his clothes, Igor thought since he was already here, he might as well pee.


    But Ashe appeared next to him again: "What a coincidence Igor, you also came to pee huh."


    Igor stayed silent, speeding up his stream.


    "Ah, didn''t wipe my mouth just now. Igor could you hold it for me while I grab some tissue?"


    Igor almost couldn''t hold it in, but he recalled the warning on the mirror and clenched his teeth, forcibly swallowing back the words in his throat.


    "No towel after washing hands, can I wipe with your clothes?"


    "You finished breakfast already? Let''s go to the deathmatch society, could you introduce me to the strong guys there?"


    "Did you watchst night''s Blood Moon Tribunal? I have some questions I want to consult you about. Of course, in exchange, you can also ask me questions."


    "Don''t rush off so quickly, wait for me okay?"


    Igor ignored Ashe as if he was farting all the way, never responding to Ashe''s requests, walking swiftly back to his room.


    Seeing Igor''s hurried back, Ashe was naturally very puzzled.


    He had revealed so many ws, how could Igor still not take the bait?


    Igor Bukin, who had the notorious titles "Fraud" and "Beast Tamer", was a wicked man whose nature was to take advantage of the kind and bully the weak. How could he be so well-behaved today like a kitten who had yet to be weaned?


    No, he had to use his trump card!


    Ding!


    Hearing the sound of a gold coin falling to the ground, Igor subconsciously looked over due to professional instincts. His ears catching a sound like heavenly music: "Could you help pick up the coin for me?"


    "No problem." Igor instantly shook out from his sleeve a copper coin painted gold that could pass off as a gold coin. Only after he had switched the coins did he react that he had spoken.


    But Igor was not flustered either. Looking at Ashe he said: "Although I don''t know why you insist on making requests of me, but now as you wished - the Contract spirit has taken effect. I fulfilled your request, so you must also fulfill my demand."


    In Shattered Lake Prison, no one dared to agree to Igor''s requests, and no one dared make requests of Igor - because under the influence of the Contract spirit, no matter who established a "transaction" rtionship with Igor, Igor could force them to uphold their promise through the contract, while he himself did not need to be responsible.


    And the best contract was the other party making a request of Igor, but not stating what pensation" they would provide. This was like giving Igor a nk check, for Igor to fill in whatever demand!


    Therefore, Igor had exercised tremendous self-control earlier to suppress his urge to respond to Ashe, because as long as he agreed to Ashe''s request, he could make an unconditionally demand of Ashe - even specifying that Ashe lose the next deathmatch to him.


    Igor was already aware that Ashe was deliberately doing this, but he was not afraid at all.


    Even if Ashe really had some plot, now Igor had one chance to make a wish of Ashe, what did he have to fear?


    To intimidate Ashe, Igor specially summoned out his Contract spirit.


    The Contract spirit was a devil with wings holding chains. Its illusory chains kept extending until wrapped around Ashe''s neck, as if ready to strangle Ashe''s throat at any time.


    "I advise you to be honest, Ashe Heath." Igor narrowed his eyes: "I can now make an unconditional wish of you, and you must fulfill it."


    "Any wish at all?"


    "Of course, even asking you to do a handstand while shitting." Igor arrogantly said: "Ashe, you''re already my ''good friend'' to order around as I please."


    "That''s really great then."


    Ashe stretched out his hand, and a single-wing spirit appeared in his palm.


    The spirit looked like a single-wing scale. When it appeared, part of the chains extended by the Contract spirit suddenly fell onto the left side of the scale. To keep the scale bnced, identical chains also appeared on the scale''s right side, extending all the way to Igor''s neck!


    The Contract spirit''s chains bound Ashe, while the scale spirit''s chains bound Igor!


    "Bnce exists in all things."


    Looking at Igor''s increasingly ugly distorted face, Asheughed and said: "Igor, helping each other is what ''good friends'' do, right?"

 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68


    This new spirit was naturally the spoils fromst night''s virtual world exploration.


    It turned out that Ashe and the Swordswoman''s wait was worth it.


    Just before the whirlpool was about to disappear, Ashe finally saw the map prompt change from "Wait" to "Go Now!", so he hurriedly pulled the Swordswoman and jumped into the whirlpool.


    After traveling thousands of miles across the sea, what appeared before Ashe and the Swordswoman was an injured sh Fish Dragon.


    Dealing with such a knowledge-based lifeform, Ashe and the Swordswoman naturally would not speak of any chivalry, and took advantage of its weakened state to burst out a whopping five spirits, though unfortunately no experience orbs, but these five spirits all had their uses, and could be called a great harvest.


    The reason why Ashe was desperately trying to establish a "trade" rtionship with Igor was because the newly obtained "Scales" spirit had given him ample confidence.


    "Scales"


    "Single-Wing Spirit"


    "Restriction: The sorcerer must master basic mathematical knowledge such as trigonometry, sequences, probability theory, etc."


    "Basic Effect: Reflect any effect at a certain ratio back to the caster."


    "Passive Effect: Greatly enhances the sorcerer''s sense of bnce and ability to adjust center of gravity."


    "''Bnce exists among all things.''"


    At first Ashe was going to use the Scales spirit as a damage reflector, and didn''t think much of it, but after he left the virtual world and returned to reality, he suddenly realized he could easily invoke the Scales spirit''s resonance.


    Perhaps it was because he had mastered all the basic mathematical knowledge required by the Scales spirit. After all, those were the test topics in math exams. Although after four years of college degeneration he could no longer do the questions, he could still understand the basic concepts.


    This was the first time Ashe had seen a spirit that required knowledge, ording to the Swordswoman, it seemed that only spirits associated with "fate", "prophecy", and "truth" would have knowledge requirements. These spirits were rarely useful forbat or production, but they often yed unexpected roles, and prophecy-type sorcerers also had high social status.


    Being able to invoke the Scales spirit''s resonance at any time meant that in addition to the virtual world, Ashe could also take advantage of the Scales spirit for profit in Shattered Lake Prison, this "civilized society".


    However, the Scales spirit belonged to the kind of "if you don''t move, I don''t move" holy mother police, it would only take action when others used spirits for spells. In a prison where no one could use spirits at all, the Scales spirit actually didn''t have many objects to target.


    Except for this "good friend" Ashe had just met.


    "Not bad, Ashe." Igor tried his best to sound nonchnt and said, "Since you have my wish, and I have your wish, then we have reached a bnce of wishes at this time. From now on I will live my life, you live yours, we coexist peacefully without encroaching on each other, and jointly build a harmonious prison. How about it?"


    "No, not good at all." Ashe smiled slightly, "I''m going to use up my wish right now."


    "Think it over!" Igor spoke ominously, "Once you use up your wish, you will have no means left to threaten me! By then I can make you do whatever I want, let alone make you do a handstand and shit then roll on the ground, even make you intentionally lose a deathmatch will be no problem!"


    "Of course I''ve thought it through." Ashe took a step forward, closer to Igor.


    Igor backed away with a vague sense of unease, advising as he retreated, "Ashe, really, there''s no need to take it this far. Or don''t use the wish, just discuss it with me, I''m your good friend, if I can help you, I definitely will help..."


    "I don''t want ''if'', I need you to ''wholeheartedly'' fulfill my wish."


    "I''m just an ordinary fraudster, my abilities are limited. Ashe, you think too highly of me. How about this, I''ll try to establish a contract with another death row inmate, whatever you need, I''ll have him satisfy you, okay? Anything is fine, and no limit on frequency!"


    "No, it has to be you."


    Igor''s back was already against the wall, nowhere to retreat. Ashe leaned one hand against the wall, looking at him and said, "Igor, my wish is��"


    "I''m not listening, I''m not listening!"


    Igor immediately covered his ears and ran away, but since he couldn''t use spirits either, and their physical abilities wereparable, Ashe caught up to him and grabbed his arm, shouting loudly:


    "Igor, I want you to help me escape from prison!"


    The patrolling guard nced at the two of them, shook his head, and left whistling.


    Remarks like "I''m going to be the prison escape king" had been heard hundreds of times by the guards, of course they wouldn''t take it to heart.


    In his heart, he even felt a little sympathy for these death row inmates. After all, having pipe dreams right after breakfast really looked pitiful.


    But the parties involved didn''t think these were just empty ramblings.


    Igor looked at Ashe, his expression as ugly as if he had been punched, his back was soaked in cold sweat without realizing it.


    He knew it! He knew it!


    What other wishes could a man who had just survived the Blood Moon Tribunal have? Other than the usual in-and-out business, it could only be escape, right?


    When Ashe held his wish in hand, Igor knew he was finished this time. It seemed that only good swimmers drown, only lustful ones die in bed, and even he, a fraudster who had harvested countless IQ taxes, would have a day of being duped.


    As for using his own wish to resist Ashe''s, it was impossible - because that would vite the "help Ashe" restriction, Igor simply couldn''t do it!


    The wish Ashe made prevented Igor from doing anything to "stop Ashe from escaping"!


    He sighed, "Come with me."


    Igor took Ashe to his room. Shattered Lake Prison did not prohibit inmates from visiting each other, they could even sleep and chat together if they wanted - after all, other than sleeping, they couldn''t do anything anyway, the chip restrictions included "intimacy".


    Only the lovers'' rooms could temporarily unlock the "intimacy" restriction, only the Deathmatch Society could temporarily unlock the bat" restriction, and even only the toilet could unlock the "excretion" restriction - yes, the death row inmates didn''t even have the freedom to take a public shit.


    Or rather, death row inmates actually had the same freedoms as normal people, it was just that before doing certain things, you had to report and apply to the prison, and once the prison allowed it, then you could do it.


    The difference between death row inmates and free men was perhaps the difference between "nothing is permissible unless permitted byw" and "everything not prohibited is permitted".


    "Your room is quite big."


    Ashe plopped down on the velvet bed, leaned back and sank into the bed. Igor, who had just moved the chair aside, couldn''t help but twitch his mouth when he saw this scene.


    Ashe nced at him and waved his hand, "Don''t be so restrained, sit anywhere, I''m not a stickler for etiquette, no need to pour me water."


    What a pity, I was just about to scoop some water from the toilet to quench your thirst, and if I hadn''t just peed I might even have added some ingredients... With a stomach full of resentment, Igor sat in the chair, fingers inteced, staring at Ashe.


    "You really want to escape?"


    "What kind of question is that, who here doesn''t want to escape?"


    "Many don''t." Igor said lightly, "For example, ''Diamond'' Taig doesn''t want to escape. He offended too many people outside, it would be even more dangerous to go out. Besides, apart from being thugs and bodyguards, masochist mages don''t have other ways to make a living. As long as he''s not selected for the Blood Moon Tribunal, Taig''s days here are actually morefortable than outside."


    "There are quite a few people like Taig. Or rather, basically everyone who has lived here for a few years has found a new way to survive, and has no longing for the outside. For them, the outside is just a slightly bigger prison."


    Igor looked at Ashe, secretly activating the "Resonance" spirit, and said in a tempting voice, "Since you survived the first Blood Moon Tribunal, if nothing unexpected happens, you will participate in the Blood Moon Tribunal ording to contribution rank just like us in the future. As long as your contribution is high enough, you won''t be selected. "


    "Your strength is pretty good, victory probability in deathmatches is high. In other words, you also have the ability to livefortably here." He spread his hands, "If you wish, you can also live in such a big room, eat whatever you want the cafeteria to make, read books, watch movies, drink alcohol, dance, even take moon sugar if you want. If you have any requests, you can give suggestions to the prison, the new skating rink was built because some inmates liked skating."


    "In the eyes of people outside, this ce may be the ideal world - no crime, no vulgarity, nopetition, not even work, just a regted, spirited life every day."


    "Life here is no worse than outside."


    Seeing that Ashe seemed somewhat moved, Igor was secretly excited and couldn''t help apuding his own wit.


    Ashe''s wish was not without loopholes. The premise of "help Ashe escape" was that Ashe wanted to escape. Therefore, as long as Igor persuaded Ashe to give up the idea, he naturally wouldn''t have to fulfill the wish.


    But this was also Igor''s true thoughts.


    Escape was a thorny dead-end road, fleeing was not a momentary victory, but a lifelong torment. Let alone whether they could escape, even if they did, what awaited them was an even more cruel challenge - like street rats, living incognito in the sewers, breathing the freedom-scented murky air.


    Yet a life of ignoble survival was happiness that they could easily obtain.


    A death row inmate who survived the Blood Moon Tribunal knew how to choose.


    "You make a lot of sense."


    Ashe sat up and nodded at Igor''s expectant gaze, "Indeed, escape is a dangerous and unknown thorny path, while life here, although not without risks, is much morefortable overall. If I stay here for a long time, I guess I''ll be like you, knowing how to enjoy prison life, right."


    Igor was overjoyed, "Yes, yes, it''s good that you understand, so��"


    "That''s why I must escape, and quickly, the sooner the better!"


    Ashe looked at Igor and shook his head gently, "I don''t want to be like you, edges smoothed, courage extinguished, spine broken."


    "I don''t want to live like a...dog!"


    Igor''s expression froze instantly.


    After a moment of silence, Igor slowly stood up.


    p!


    He kicked the chair over and turned to punch the wall, but just before impact, his body suddenly stiffened, energy output prohibited by the chip.


    "Interesting, so calling myself a dog isn''t considered profanity? This should be a loophole in the chip, hahaha..."


    "Fine! Escape, escape is good!"


    Igor swung his hand in disgust, "But the premise of escape is that we first have to figure out how to kill...have the neck chip removed! As long as the neck chip is still there, not to mention escaping, even where you want to take a shit depends on the prison''s mood! Haha, I can''t do anything about this, do you have a way, my dear cult leader, Ashe Heath?"


    "I have a way to deal with the chip."


    "I knew you didn''t have...what? What did you say?"

 Chapter 69

    Chapter 69


    "Cut my miracle, cut my miracle..."


    Igor paced back and forth in the room, unconsciously biting his nails, and couldn''t help asking: "Are you sure you can use the Miracle sh without arcane energy output?"


    "I''m not sure," Ashe said calmly. "And I definitely can''t do it now. I''m still missing a key spirit to form the Miracle sh."


    "Then how did you��"


    "I told you, I have secret ways of obtaining spirits. I don''t know when I''ll find that key spirit, but it''s just a matter of time."


    Igor opened his mouth but then closed it again.


    Since Ashe didn''t borate, Igor naturally couldn''t guess what that so-called "secret channel" was. But he didn''t doubt the authenticity of this matter much.


    Because of the Bnce spirit.


    If Ashe had the Bnce spirit a few days ago, he wouldn''t have been unterally bound by Igor''s contract spirit back then.


    Although it was also possible that Ashe was just pretending to be weak to catch Igor off guard, Igor was the one who provoked him first that time. How could Ashe have set a trap targeting Igor specifically?


    Compared to believing in this conspiracy theory that only existed in probability, Igor was more willing to believe in Ashe''s potential.


    It wasn''t because Igor was naive, optimistic and cute, but because Ashe had already demonstrated miracle after miracle with his own hands.


    In the fight with Igor, he went from aplete martial arts novice to a skilled fighter in just minutes;


    In the deathmatch with Valcas, he went from not even being able to hold a sword properly to a master swordsman in minutes;


    During the Blood Moon Tribunal, he was somehow immune to the searing pain of the Purgatorial me, even though he was the death row inmate with the deepest sins.


    Plus the sudden appearance of the Bnce spirit, Igor felt he had no reason to doubt Ashe, even if the "secret channel" Ashe mentioned sounded preposterous under the prison''s surveince. In this world of mages, miracles were the mostmon inevitability.


    Moreover, Ashe Heath was the leader of the Four Pirs heretical cult...


    Igor''s expression was constantly changing. He gritted his teeth and stamped his feet, "Screw it!"


    "But we can''t escape with just the two of us. I have to recruit a few more people."


    "Of course," Ashe smiled. "The reason I came to you first was because you must know the profiles of other death row inmates. After all, I''m not familiar with this ce and need a cunning ''local'' to help assemble the team."


    "Thank you for thepliment. As a con artist, information is my weapon." Igor bowed elegantly.


    "So who should we look for?"


    "I already have a preliminary n. Assuming you can remove the chip limit with the Miracle sh, we need three types of people: a vanguard focused on assault, a destroyer focused on sustained damage, and a support focused on mobility and healing."


    "That sounds like you need professionals with very specific skills. Can we find people like that?"


    "Are you kidding me?" Igorughed.


    "Viins, murderers, ck market smugglers, aren''t these three types of people everywhere in Shattered Lake Prison?"


    Cailleach, Saint Empire.


    Ingritt curiously observed the view of the vi district outside the car window, Adele excitedly touched the decorative leather inside the car, and Iris hurriedly pressed Adele''s hand down in embarrassment, making small talk: "Thanks for inviting us to the tea party, Felix."


    "Don''t thank me," Felix frowned as he drove. "It was Sonya who strongly requested to bring along her roommates, so I had to invite you..."


    His words were impolite, showing that Felix was in a very bad mood now, unable to even maintain basic noble etiquette. Adele didn''t even dare touch things randomly anymore.


    Iris had no interest in continuing to rub salt in the wound. She secretly observed Sonya in the passenger seat, wondering what their rtionship was.


    At noon today, Sonya suddenly came to them saying that Felix was inviting them to a tea party at his vi.


    Tea parties were verymon student activities. The usual form was a few students eating snacks and drinking ck tea at a scenic spot, while gossiping and spreading rumors. Many campus rumors originated from tea parties.


    Iris had participated in quite a few tea parties herself, and had even specifically held them to badmouth Sonya �� a tea party would be worthless without nder.


    So she found it very strange that Sonya wanted to have a tea party with her. From the nature of tea parties, she knew they were intimate circles for gossiping and rumor-mongering. Iris didn''t think her rtionship with Sonya had reached the intimate level where they could badmouth people behind their backs together.


    Even if Sonya wanted to bring friends to a tea party, she and Ingritt had been so close these days that inviting just her would be enough. Why drag Iris and Adele along?


    Plus, this was Felix''s tea party. Recalling the despicable rumors about this yboy, Iris subconsciously thought badly of Sonya �� keywords like ''noble son'', ''basement'', ''imprisoning girls'', ''abuse'', ''sex ves'' flooded her mind.


    However, before Iris could refuse, Sonya suggested they let their parents know they were attending Felix''s tea party. If anything unexpected happened, it must be the misdeeds of the second son of Duke Vlozrada...


    Such thoughtful concern made Iris somewhat confused. On the other hand, Ingritt saw some clues and asked Sonya if she needed them as witnesses. Sonya didn''t say it outright, but promised there would definitely be benefits if they came to the tea party.


    Benefits rted to mages.


    But if Felix had ulterior motives, it would spell trouble for them. That was why Sonya told them to inform their parents of their whereabouts.


    The more Iris listened, the more it sounded like bait used to lure ignorant young girls. If it were anyone else, Iris would have refused for sure. But since it was Felix and Sonya, and they had reminded them to notify their parents, plus Iris still hoped to buy the Virtual World Telescope spirit from Sonya, she couldn''t afford to offend Sonya too much.


    Most importantly, Ingritt had agreed.


    In her words: "In the world of mages, adventure means progress, caution means retreat. If I don''t even dare take this little risk, I might as well go home and get married."


    Perhaps it was a young girl''s longing for adventure, or perhaps the hints of arranged marriage from her parents'' recent visit home, or simply not wanting to chicken out in front of the person she hated most. In the end, Iris agreed to the tea party invitation.


    As Iris''s follower, Adele didn''t think much before agreeing toe along too.


    However, after getting in the car, Iris''s raised guard gradually lowered. Not only because many students saw them get into Felix''s silver car, but also because the car was heading towards Cailleach''s vi district. There were surveince Eyes all along the way, and it was impossible for anyone tomit crimes in the core area of Cailleach.


    The silver car drove into a luxurious vi. Adele looked around and asked, "Where are the servants?"


    "There are no servants," Felix said lightly. "Only when I''m away will housekeeping staff be hired to maintain the vi. Otherwise, no one else is here."


    Adele foolishly asked again: "No servants? Then how do we have the tea party? Are we going to brew tea and make snacks ourselves?"


    Iris showed an awkward expression and pulled her little follower aside to exin.


    Felix walked ahead, leading them into the vi''s great hall, then under everyone''s contemptuous gaze, summoned a scantily d single-winged beauty spirit.


    As if triggering some mechanism, the firece suddenly opened, revealing a spiraling underground passage leading down.


    Sonyained: "Do you have to make it so creepy and scary? Do you usually have other hobbies too, like kidnapping girls, murdering them, dissecting corpses, skinning them?"


    "Secrets are always associated with fear, darkness, and murder �� not because secrets are inherently so, but because secrets are too weak and need to posture threateningly to protect themselves," Felix said impatiently. "Or do you want me to change the location to the school cafeteria at midnight?"


    Sonya muttered something, then followed Felix into the spiral passage, with Ingritt close behind, wooden sword taken out of her sword bag. Iris and Adele looked at each other, hugged each other tightly, and nervously followed at the end.


    Iris was starting to regret this a little.


    Not that she was afraid of being harmed, she even believed she would benefit. But every gift came with a price �� in exchange, she sensed that she would be tied to Sonya and Felix, bing amunity of shared interests and stakes.


    She suddenly recalled what her merchant father once told her:


    "Interests are the most stable rtionships, secrets are the strongest constraints, aplices are the most genuine friends."


    After walking for about thirty seconds, they arrived at an underground training room.


    Shockingly, instead of civilian gasmps, the lighting system here was the artifact ''Daystar'', illuminating the vast underground hall as bright as daylight. To think that even the training halls at Swordflower College only used one ''Daystar'' for night lighting �� the extravagance was evident from such details.


    Upon arrival, Felix seemed to have shed burdens and masks. He uncorked a bottle of wine from the corner fridge and blew into it directly, his unhappy face saying: "I''ve fulfilled my promise and satisfied your request. Handle the rest yourself."


    Ingritt stood at the stair entrance, holding back the two behind her, and asked: "Sonya, you can exin now, right?"


    "No problem," Sonya smiled. "To put it simply ��"


    "Felix has a treasure and wants to split it fifty-fifty with me. But encountering something so good, how could I forget my dear roommates? So I brought you here to share this treasure!"

 Chapter 70

    Chapter 70


    Felix''s treasure?


    Meeting good fortune yet remembering to inform roommates?


    My god, we have a saint in our dorm!


    Ingrittughed and said: "Are you afraid Felix has ulterior motives for you, so you decided to share the risk with us, even reminding us to report whereabouts to parents, just to deter Felix through implicating us?"


    Sonya shrugged without denying: "There''s also a bit of consideration along that line of thought. But the treasure is real..."


    Looking at the chattering Sonya, Felix secretly sighed, suddenly doubting whether his decision this time was too much.


    When leaving the meditation building in the morning, Felix called out to Sonya, saying he had a huge good news to share with her.


    But what kind of person is Sonya? She is a shrewd girl who made her own living in the extravagant city of Cailleach alone. Having seen all kinds of sinister humanity, how could she believe this empty promise?


    Swindlers all know to send small gifts first before scamming people. You should at least send me some expensive gifts first to lower my alertness!


    Sugar-coated cannonballs, sugar-coated cannonballs. Your cannonballs don''t even have sugar-coating, looking down on who!


    Felix tried hard to persuade Sonya, but under Sonya''s constant threat of "forget it, I won''t participate", he could only reveal his bottom line and gave up control.


    The so-called treasure is actually the legacy left by Felix''s mother. But this legacy was divided by his mother into several parts, each with its own requirements. If the requirements are not met, the legacy can never be obtained.


    One part of the legacy requires the person to possess the spirit sword "Murderous Intention" as well as having more than half a wing of arcane energy.


    Although Felix has half-wing arcane energy, he lost the "Murderous Intention", which makes the treasure that should have been easily obtained suddenly be as difficult as ascending to heaven.


    At this time, Sonya''s "Murderous Intention" came into his sight.


    But Felix also knew Sonya would not give up the precious "Secret Sword Twenty-One", so he proposed to cooperate with Sonya.


    At first he proposed a price that he thought was very reasonable: a fake marriage. Not that he wanted to take advantage of Sonya, but because after investigating Sonya''s history, he believed this was the opportunity Sonya wanted.


    ording to the Noble Crest Act, any rtionship recognized by the Noble Council is legally equivalent to marriage. Felix knew that what Sonya wanted most was the noble status that would allow her to live respectably in Cailleach, but the path to ennoblement was rocky and difficult. In contrast, marrying a noble was a shortcut.


    As long as she marries Felix, Sonya will directly get the Vlozrada family crest, not only getting monthly allowance from the family fund, but also enjoying the family''s sorcerer training system. Miracles like ''Dragon Belly Scales'' and ''Dragon Dinner Party'' will also open up to her.


    Most importantly, she can directly use the Vlozrada family crest to bypass Cailleach''s residency restrictions and enjoy noble privileges without restriction on purchasing property and choosing upations.


    She could even change her mother''s residency registration from agricultural town resident to Cailleach resident.


    Felix judged others by himself. He knew Sonya must cherish her mother very much, who was widowed early and raised Sonya alone. If possible, Sonya would definitely want her mother to enjoy blessings early.


    However, even with Sonya''s outstanding talents, it would take at least a year and a half for her to unfold the Silver Wings, at least four years to unfold the Golden Wings. If she wants to enter the Three Wings Sanctum in ten years, she would absolutely need great fortune and opportunities.


    But more likely, she won''t be able to enter the Three Wings Sanctum in twenty years.


    In recent years, the number of nobilitations has be less and less. It''s almost impossible to be nobilitated now without reaching Sanctum. Without the noble crest, no matter how outstanding Sonya is, she can only enjoy this sess alone in Cailleach, without the qualifications to relocate her mother''s residency. Her mother will still be restricted to staying in Cailleach for only thirty days a year.


    Commoners must abide by themoners'' code, only nobles have the qualifications to soar.


    Felix thought Sonya would readily ept, because epting is equal to sparing twenty years of struggle.


    After all, marriage can be divorced. Although she would lose the Vlozrada crest then, by that time Sonya must have already made a fortune. She would have also relocated her mother''s residency to Cailleach, so divorce wouldn''t affect any of her interests or even reputation - noble divorces and extramarital affairs aremon urrences that everyone is used to and won''t care about.


    But even after Felix exined the pros and cons, Sonya still rejected the proposal.


    He couldn''t understand why the smart and vulgar Sonya would reject such a mutually beneficial proposal.


    Interests, status, fame, weren''t these what she wanted?


    Why did she reject?


    Could she really be so confident that she can obtain everything by her own ability in just a few years?


    Or did she look down on me, Felix, and wasn''t interested in taking so-called shortcuts?


    But since n A failed, Felix could only propose n B: split the treasure evenly.


    Although the treasure was left to him by his mother, in principle it shouldn''t be shared with anyone. It was also not entirely impossible for him to regain the "Murderous Sword" in the future. Felix could have kept the treasure for the future.


    But Felix also knew everything in the world has an expiration date.


    Power also expires.


    The reason his mother left the legacy with restrictions was precisely to provide targeted help to Felix.


    Any treasure that Felix could just open now would provide huge help to his current self. It wouldn''t give Felix power beyond his control.


    For example, Felix at one wing couldn''t obtain a two-wing spirit from the legacy. Because for him, it would only be a pure burden and drag.


    And this treasure that requires him to have half-wing arcane energy to open must be very suitable for his current situation.


    If Felix advanced to Golden Two Wings and opened this treasure then, he wouldn''t need this bit of help by that time. It wouldn''t even count as icing on the cake. But now, even if he could only get half, it would still be a godsend.


    Years of assassination attempts have made Felix realistic and rational.


    He wasn''t a squirrel who hides away all his food. With his constant sense of crisis, he believed in utilitarianism - maximizing benefits was the only principle he followed, even if it meant sharing his mother''s legacy.


    Sonya agreed, but didn''tpletely agree.


    She proposed a condition that Felix felt was iprehensible: she wanted to bring friends to participate in this operation, and she would reward her friends from the treasures she obtained.


    At first Felix also thought he had met a principled saint who wouldn''t give in to power and wealth. But on second thought he understood Sonya''s concern - she was afraid he would kill her for the treasure!


    If not for Professor Trotzam''s support, Sonya was basically a foreign college student without any background. Even with Trotzam as her backing, cooperating with local nobles like Felix was no different from dealing with tigers for their skins. She could only spread the risk by bringing her roommates, with Ingritt being children of minor noble families from out of town, Iris being daughter of local businessmen, and Adel''s father a government official of Cailleach... The key was Iris and Adel. The two of them must have rm devices that could send location signals to the Security Bureau when encountering danger!


    Plus they all reported whereabouts to their families. Felix had to be careful to escort these youngdies back to school, otherwise the Noble Council woulde after him first if anything happened.


    Felix greatly admired Sonya''s prudence, but of course he didn''t want more people to know his secrets. He tried to persuade her with benefits, even willing to change the profit split from fifty-fifty to forty-six. He could be considered quite humble.


    But Sonya insisted, "If you don''t agree, I don''t want the treasure." She firmly grasped Felix''s bottom line.


    The winner of a negotiation is always the one who cares the least.


    Felix knew how much the treasure could improve him. In the end, he still conceded.


    After Sonya exined the situation, her roommates all looked at Felix warily, huddling behind Sonya like chicks, making Felix want tough: "If you''re still worried you can leave now. Just don''t talk about this outside."


    "No, I want to stay and protect Sonya!" Iris righteously stated, though her eyes showed eagerness. Adel also looked like she was here just to watch the spectacle without fear of trouble.


    Ingritt was even more direct: "I''m just very curious what kind of treasure needs spirits to open."


    Treasure that even the Vlozrada second young master coveted, how could these apprentice mages not be curious? In the end, they were teenagers. How could they not yearn for this treasure straight out of a novel?


    Felix sighed and took out five nk membrane contracts, "Then let''s sign the contracts first."


    Sonya and the others secretly eximed at the luxury - membrane contracts weremon spirit tool devices. The principle was to temporarily store the miracle ''Oath of the Virtual World'' onto paper. Signers of the contract would be restricted by the virtual world, sleeping endlessly for light vitions, and souls vanishing for heavy vitions.


    Membrane contracts weren''t cheap, market price equaling a one-wing spirit. Not used for unimportant deals. That Felix could take out five at once not only showed his wealth, but also indicated the treasure''s extraordinary value. Otherwise he wouldn''t have invested so much.


    Using membrane contracts was simple. Users peel off the membrane then directly copy the temte. Messy handwriting or corrections didn''t matter. As long as the five signed copies of the contract could be stacked together, meaning the contents were the same, the oath takes effect.


    The pre-attached membrane, separate copying, and ovep detection were all designed to reduce the chances of mages tampering with the contract. In fact, membrane contracts have proven to be trustworthy. Like how Sonya''s academic loan was a membrane contract.


    The temte was simple: not leaking anything that happens in this basement, not keeping any records in any form, not exposing anything about the treasure, concealing the source of anything obtained, and not implicating Felix himself.


    At the same time, Felix and Sonya will split the harvest from the basement evenly, then Sonya will further distribute the treasure with Ingritt, Iris, and Adel.


    Essentially a non-disclosure and profit-sharing contract.


    While copying, Adel quietly asked: "Sonya, why did you reject the fake marriage proposal? If it were me, I would definitely choose the fake marriage rather than the treasure... That''s the Vlozrada crest..."


    Iris also looked at Sonya curiously.


    Sonya''s expression was a bit awkward. She hesitated for a long time before squeezing out: "Humiliating!"


    What''s humiliating?


    Marrying Felix for pretend humiliating?


    Or taking this shortcut into the noble ss humiliating?


    If it were Ingritt saying this it would make sense, but you''re Sonya Therave!


    Iris and Adel both couldn''t understand. After all, Sonya didn''t seem like someone who values face to them. More importantly, they didn''t feel like Sonya cared about dignity! Losing money hurts more than losing face!


    They couldn''t understand, Felix couldn''t understand, only Ingritt vaguely guessed something.


    Not because she was particrly close with Sonya, but simply because they both came from small towns.


    Unlike the open-minded metropolis of Cailleach, small towns have very conservative views. Although to urbanites they only seem backwards and uncultured, to rural folk some things simply cannot be treated lightly.


    For example, marriage.


    Perhaps because Sonya integrated into the city so quickly, others felt she was a very modern and trendy college student. But Ingritt knew Sonya still harbored the unique innocence and fantasies of rural folk at heart - believing effort will lead to sess, believing suffering will bring progress, believing... marriage is sacred, love is pure, and cannot be tainted one bit.


    She may see marriage as a pathway for advancement, but she hasn''t discarded her own integrity for it. Otherwise there are plenty of very rich and oily noble heirs around. She just wants to find the most suitable marriage partner within eptable boundaries, then steadfastly tend the marriage.


    Not everything can be used for transaction. People in the city just don''t understand such things.


    Of course, in addition to this, Ingritt felt Sonya was also being prideful - taking shortcuts may be easy, but if you can seed by your own effort, why let your honor be smeared?


    Sonya felt uneasy being seen through by Ingritt. "What are you staring at me for, do I have words on my face?"


    "Hehe, you''re shy aren''t you?"


    "You''re sick."

 Chapter 71

    Chapter 71


    Cailleach City, in the basement of a luxurious vi.


    As the five ovepping contracts dissipated into thin air, the five people faintly felt their souls grow a little heavier.


    "The contract is signed, so where''s the treasure?" Adele looked around curiously: "I get it, it must be hidden in these tables and chairs. We have to peel off the outer wood to get to it, right?"


    It was understandable why Adele would think this way. The basement was filled with nothing but tables and chairs, with no obvious ce to hide anything.


    "The treasure isn''t here." Felix said.


    "Not here? Then why did wee?"


    Adele was utterly confused, but the others seemed to have expected this. Iris pinched Adele''s cheeks in exasperation: "Pay more attention in ss! We''re mages, not ordinary people. If we want to hide something, how could we do it like normal people and leave it in the real world?"


    "If not in the real world, then where... oh, the virtual world!" Adele had a sudden realization, "No wonder we need spirits to open the treasure!"


    Compared to the unpredictable real world filled with upheavals and disasters, the virtual world was the ideal storage facility - eternal, free of disasters, and uninhabited.


    The virtual world had always been more than just a training ground for mages. It was the cornerstone of the mage system. To this day, no one dared im they fully understood the virtual world. Almost every year, mages invented new technologies utilizing it.


    Mages were like children picking up seashells on the beach, with the vast unknown ocean still before them.


    Storing things in the virtual world was nothing new, but had yet to bemercialized even now, remaining an exclusive miracle of high-level mages.


    The principle was simple - find a way to fix the virtual world coordinates of the Gate of Truth inside a spirit, ensuring ess to the same coordinates every time. That spot would be the mage''s personal storage.


    Easier said than done, since the Gate appeared randomly inside spirits. How could its coordinates be fixed?


    This involved another rarely known field: Spirit Rtionships.


    Spirits had intellect and thus emotions, but mages couldn''t perceive them, at least not below the Saint rank.


    But when multiple spirits gathered, their moods would inevitably change. By observing the patterns of change, and fixing one spirit''s mood at a certain state, its Gate of Truth would also stay still, bing an eternal virtual coordinate!


    Felix summoned his Vibration Sword spirit. "When it shows a change in expression, have your Murderous Sword approach it immediately. Ready?"


    Sonya nodded and summoned her ''Murderous Sword'' spirit.


    Felix took a deep breath and summoned his ''Love''s Call'' spirit, a pure and cute single-winged angel girl.


    The Vibration Sword spirit had a cold and aloof swordsman appearance. As Love''s Call fluttered around it, its expression was unchanged. Even when Love''s Call grabbed its hand and shook it, it remained impassive. Suddenly, Love''s Call leaned in and pecked the Vibration Sword spirit on the cheek, finally melting its icy visage to reveal a faint blush.


    Now!


    Sonya promptly had her Murderous Sword approach. With its dual-sword wielding crimson-d maiden looks, the Murderous Sword exuded a red aura. As it neared, Love''s Call hid behind Vibration Sword, which met the Murderous Sword fearlessly, radiating ck vibrations!


    Spirit Rtionships - Battle of Pure Love, sess!


    Felix''s eyes shed as his consciousness delved into Vibration Sword, grasping the Gate of Truth!


    Expand!


    A gray dot emerged from the spirit''s body and swiftly expanded, soon bing a hazy, transparent bubble.


    The gray bubble grewrger in the air, with illusions of thunder and lightning within. Everyone stayed far back, not daring to go near.


    The Gate of Truth could be expanded, but it was pointless for physical mages - only the soul could enter the virtual world.


    No matter how huge the Gate grew, it couldn''t allow the mage to bring anything inside.


    Matter simply couldn''t enter the virtual world.


    But the reverse was different.


    Things from the virtual world coulde out through the Gate into reality. Some knowledge beings would even seize the chance to manifest a real body and wreak havoc.


    This was also how spirits were born - mages used knowledge to resonate with the virtual world, allowing its truths to flow into the mage''s knowledge. When knowledge and truthbined, spirits were born.


    That was why Sonya and the others retreated to the stairwell, ready to flee if anything seemed off.


    The virtual coordinates used by mages for storage were mostly ominous ces. Storing things on a peaceful little ind might lead to discovery by other mages. More crucially, knowledge beings needed sustenance too!


    By expanding the Gate instead of entering, Felix indicated he knew the coordinates led to extreme danger. There was a popr joke in school - a mage instantly cked out upon opening his Gate, likely because he had connected to a battle.


    Getting countered by one''s own Gate of Truth was considered one of the stupidest ways for a mage to die.


    The gray bubble kept expanding as the thunder inside intensified. Everyone grew anxious to flee the basement. Felix''s face paled from the massive arcane expenditure, grunting as unfledged Silver Wings sprouted from his back!


    Sonya gazed at the half-formed Silver Wings with narrowed eyes.


    The gray bubble continued swelling when suddenly lightning struck a nearby chair, instantly turning it into charcoal!


    "Ah!"


    "What do we do now?"


    "Maybe we shoulde back another day when the weather is nicer?"


    Everyone looked askance at Adele - the virtual world had no such thing as weather...


    Just as Felix was about to give out, a box dropped out of the bubble. He immediately cut off his power, the gray bubble disappearing with a pop, its scattered energy creating a light breeze.


    "Is this the treasure?"


    Adele dashed to the box, peering curiously at the virtual world object. "It looks... huh, it disappeared... huh, it reappeared? Am I seeing things?"


    The box seemed to be made of obsidian, nothing extraordinary, but it vanished when Adele blinked, then reappeared when she focused on it.


    "Unforgettable Wood." Iris'' voice was soft, as if afraid to startle the box. "When you look away even slightly, you won''t see it anymore, even forgetting its existence... This rare material can only be found in the virtual world."


    "Its most important use is that it can be hidden in the soul, allowing mages to carry it out of the virtual world, and also bring it inside."


    "Sealing unforgettable wood into a container blocks all energy leakage. It can even hold real objects and bring them into the virtual world..."


    Everyone nodded and marveled at the miraculous properties, without thinking deeper.


    Only Iris secretly nced at Felix, filled with doubt and suspicion.


    Due to family circumstances, she knew such absurdly rare and expensive items.


    She clearly remembered unforgettable wood originated from the ''Far Expanse'' in the thirdyer of the virtual world. It waspletely inessible below the Saint rank with three wings.


    Frankly, the box itself was likely far more valuable than its contents - objects that could traverse reality and virtuality were so absurdly rare they inevitably triggered lethal mage conflicts!


    She didn''t have high expectations for Felix''s ''mother''s legacy'', assuming it was just some tools to aid a Silver-level mage.


    But the unforgettable wood box''s appearance made Iris reconsider - why would his mother use a Saint-grade box for Silver-grade items?


    Either the box meant little to herpared to Silver-rank treasures, or...


    Just as Iris would not buy cheap clothes regardless of price because it wasn''t about extravagance, but because the small price difference was almost negligible to her, why suffer?


    Felix''s mother must have had other ways to preserve items, yet she deliberately chose to use the unforgettable wood box. This shows that a mere unforgettable wood box was simply not worth making ripples in her heart.


    So what level of sorcerer was Felix''s mother really?


    A three-winged Saint? A four-winged Legend? Or could she be...?


    Iris swallowed nervously, feeling like Sonya had lured her into a pit - this was the internal strife of the Vlozrada family! As a merchant''s daughter, this was way over her head!


    But it was toote for regrets. She had signed the secrecy contract!


    "It''s open."


    Felix opened the unforgettable wood box and golden radiance gushed out.

 Chapter 72

    Chapter 72


    When all the treasures from the chest wereid out on the table, everyone couldn''t take their eyes off them, even Felix. Every time his mother''s inheritance appeared, it made him deeply feel her abundant love.


    "ording to the rules, I get to choose first," said Felix.


    "Go ahead," replied Sonya.


    The contract had stipted the distribution method long ago. If there was only one set of treasures, Felix would have topensate Sonya arge amount of money. If there were two sets, they would split it evenly. If there were multiple sets, Felix would choose the first, Sonya the second and third, Felix the fourth and fifth, and so on.


    However, the treasures Felix obtained had to be greater than or equal to Sonya''s, and the wooden chest had to go to Felix.


    To be honest, Sonya really wanted topete with Felix for ownership of the wooden chest. With this chest that could transport items between reality and the virtual world, she could exchange resources with the Watcher. It would provide an almost transformational help to both her and the Watcher.


    But the contract had clearly stated that "the loading container belongs to Felix." And Felix had firmly refused to budge when Sonya had brought it up earlier. Sonya couldn''t do anything about it - who could have guessed that the box containing the treasures would be more valuable than the treasures themselves!


    Sonya could only temporarily let it go. After all, this windfall of treasures had literally blown in with the wind. It was reasonable for Felix to get a bigger portion.


    If it wasn''t for Sonya identally obtaining the Murderous Sword, Felix wouldn''t have partnered up with her in the first ce.


    Moreover, Sonya had an inkling -


    Her Murderous Sword was probably the one Felix had lost.


    Although Felix hadn''t said anything, the fact that he could detect Sonya''s ownership of the Murderous Sword through the flow of killing intent meant that he must have previously owned a killing intent-type spirit himself, most likely the Murderous Sword.


    Otherwise, it would be like having a cup and wine but no bottle opener. As long as no one brought a bottle opener, he wouldn''t be able to open the wine... Even if Felix was really that foolish, his mother who could set up the inheritance in the virtual world wouldn''t be so stupid.


    More importantly, the heavily woundedcerating fish dragon she and the Watcher had defeated yesterday had wounds that looked to be caused by the Vibration Sword. She hadn''t thought much of it at the time, since the wounds didn''t prove anything.


    But with all the evidenceid out before her, even if Sonya didn''t believe in such a coincidence, she had to believe in the truth deduced by her own logic:


    Felix''s half-condensed Silver Wings;


    The virtual world treasure that required the Murderous Sword to open;


    And thecerating fish dragon severely injured by the Vibration Sword.


    It was obvious that Felix must have also encountered the vortexst night. After passing through, he was attacked by thecerating fish dragon. Although he had desperately inflicted heavy damage on it, he had still died in the end and lost the Murderous Sword.


    What happened next was Sonya and the Watcher''s delightful segment of profiting from the situation by passing through the vortex.


    As a result, not only had Sonya picked up someone else''s Murderous Sword, she had also used it to split someone else''s treasures.


    When she thought about this, Sonya couldn''t help but blush and lower her head, too nervous to meet anyone''s eyes.


    Otherwise, they would have discovered she couldn''t hold back her smile.


    It felt so good!


    Was this what a win-win was like!


    She had won once by picking up the Murderous Sword, then won again by using it to split Felix''s treasures!


    Ah, praise the Watcher!


    Hope the little trumpet''s body stays healthy!


    "Sonya, it''s your turn," said Iris.


    Sonya took a deep breath to suppress her smile as she looked at the treasures in the wooden chest.


    Sure enough, Felix had chosen the only real-world item: the pendant box.


    Although she couldn''t make out anything strange about it, this was probably an important memento left to him by his mother, perhaps rted to the next inheritance. Naturally, Sonya had no intention ofpeting for something that didn''t belong to her. She nced at the treasures left in the chest and decisively took the Splitting Sword spirit and the Sword Artifact Orb!


    The Splitting Sword wasn''t the best, but it was the most suitable for Sonya, because it couldbine with the Vibration Sword to form the high-powered miracle "Rupture sh"!


    If she had to rely on her own cultivation to summon it, Sonya estimated it would take her half a year before she had a chance of summoning the Splitting Sword. Obtaining it early not only meant saving time, but also represented Sonya could elerate her virtual world exploration progress!


    Inst night''s battle, Sonya had discovered her own shorings. Although the Moon Reflection miracle was indeed powerful, it also had disadvantages like being a passive counter, short attack range, and excessive arcane energy consumption. She urgently needed an active attack miracle that could cooperate with the Watcher, and the "Miracle �� Rupture sh" had the best cost-performance.


    Felix also had the Vibration Sword. Sonya was worried he would snatch the Splitting Sword, so she naturally had to grab it first. As for the Sword Artifact Orb, there was nothing much to say. Any sane swordsman wouldn''t miss such a treasure.


    But Felix''s choice exceeded everyone''s expectations - he took the Poison Artifact Orb and the Wind Artifact Orb.


    Wind magic was one thing, at least it was still an orthodox school of magic, but poison magic was an extremely unpopr branch. Not only did no college offer rted courses, there weren''t even any learning books avable on the market. The only ones estimated to have relevant materials were certain special departments.


    Moreover, Felix was the second son of the Vlozrada family. His identity didn''t allow him to use poison either. The Noble Council wouldn''t permit anyone tomit acts that damaged the reputation of the nobility!


    It was Sonya''s turn to choose treasures again. Under the enthusiastic gaze of her roommates, Sonya thought for a moment then took the highest value Galloping Spirit and Healing Waters Spirit.


    Felix chose the Vile Poison Spirit and Foul Wind Spirit.


    Only two spirits were left. ording to the distribution rules, Felix had to take more than Sonya, so Sonya could only take one.


    "Which one do you want?" Sonya asked.


    "Either is fine, you choose," Felix replied.


    "Then I won''t stand on ceremony," said Sonya.


    She took the Underdog Spirit, a spirit with very low utility but high value. It could only be activated when the sorcerer was weaker than the enemy. Its effect was to provide the sorcerer at a disadvantage with all-around enhancements, including but not limited to strength, agility, arcane power, and thinking speed. The greater the disparity between the sorcerer and enemy, the greater the enhancements it bestowed.


    It sounded decent enough, but the problem was that the enhancements provided by the Underdog couldn''t make up for the gap in strength. When the two sides were evenly matched, it waspletely useless. And when there was a huge disparity in strength, it also couldn''t help the sorcerer pull off a miraculous reversal.


    On the contrary, it gave the sorcerer a psychological suggestion: Even the Underdog Spirit thinks you''re the underdog.


    In fact, many battles between sorcerers were determined by who made fewer mistakes and who persisted until the end. This kind of "you''re the underdog" psychological suggestion would make the sorcerer''s defeat even more swift and thorough. It could even be said to be a curse - the underdog thinks you''re going to lose this time, so you''re definitely going to lose.


    But the Underdog Spirit was highly valued because it was one of the few spirits that couldn''t be obtained through cultivation and training. It only had one acquisition method - when an underdog miraculously defeated a stronger opponent, it had a certain probability of being born in the underdog''s heart.


    It was also the most mysterious of the Fate school spirits, possessing extremely high research value. Therefore, it was in short supply on the market, and there were far too many sorcerers who wanted to delve into the Fate school through the Underdog Spirit.


    Naturally, Felix took thest spirit, Gloomy Gales.


    With the distribution of the Experience Orbs and spirits finished, next was the shareable knowledge - the miracle forms! The contract stipted that the miracle forms could not be transcribed or leaked externally. The original records would be kept by Felix, but everyone could view them.


    There were a full ten miracle forms in the chest, but only one was a sword form - thebination miracle of the Murderous Sword and Vibration Sword, Evil Light sh. It was a vibration miracle that could inflict dizzying damage on the enemy. Sonya quicklymitted this form to memory.


    With that, the treasures in the chest werepletely divided up, but Adele picked up the chest and squinted at it. Iris asked curiously, "What are you doing?"


    Adele seriously said, "I''m checking to see if there''s a hiddenpartment. Maybe there are still treasures inside that Felix will take out and keep for himself after we leave."


    "The contract states that no matter what Felix discovers, he has to notify us for distribution," said Ingrid with augh.


    "Good, the contract is really thoughtful!"


    "Likewise, if we discover any secrets about these spirits, we have to share them with Felix too," said Iris.


    "Ah? Why''s that? The spirits are ours once they''re in our hands!" eximed Adele.


    Iris looked steadily at Sonya. Sonya thought for a moment. "I took the Sword Artifact Orb and Splitting Sword myself, so I''ll give the Galloping, Healing Waters, and Underdog spirits to you three. How about that?"


    Of course they had no objections. Sonya had brought resources to the group after all. The three of them were purely freeloading off Sonya''s windfall. If Sonya had been bolder and not brought them along, she could have even split 64-36 with Felix. But for safety''s sake, Sonya was willing to give up some of her own interests to bring along these three living amulets.


    "But you''re not sorcerers yet, so I''ll hold on to your spirits for now and return them when you grow up," said Sonya.


    Adele faltered. "Why does this sound kind of familiar..."


    "However, there''s another distribution method - sell your spirits and split the money evenly among you three. What do you think?" suggested Sonya.


    Iris shook her head first. "I want the Galloping Spirit. It''s the most valuable. I can chip in some money topensate them."


    Like Galloping, Healing Waters also belonged to the excellent water-type spirits, and it additionally had the effect of swift movement. Naturally Iris didn''t want to miss out on it.


    Adele looked at Ingrid. "I want the Healing Waters Spirit. My mother said medical mages are in high demand..."


    Ingrid didn''t seem to mind either. "Then I''ll take the Underdog Spirit."


    With the distribution of benefits concluded, Felix was about to send them back when Adele suddenly asked, "Are there snacks here? Is there ck tea?"


    Felix faltered. "There are some in the kitchen..."


    "Then isn''t it teatime now?" said Adele excitedly. "I''ve never had a tea party in such a luxurious vi before! I have to take lots of picturester!"


    "Taking pictures?" Felix''s voice went up a note.


    Adele said matter-of-factly, "Of course I have to take pictures, otherwise isn''ting here pointless?"


    This time, Iris stood on Adele''s side. "Everyone saw us leave in your car. Taking some tea party pictures can help exin where we were this afternoon."


    "Yes, yes, that''s what I meant!" Adele nodded vigorously and hurried off into the stairs. "I''m going to see what snacks are in the kitchen!"


    Iris and Ingrid exchanged a look before following after with a sigh. Shared secrets were indeed the best lubricant. After experiencing the treasure incident together, Ingrid, Iris and the others'' rtionship had unconsciously grown much closer.


    Sonya walked to the stairs and turned back to look at Felix, who was still sitting there. "Aren''t youing?"


    "I''m not interested. You guys have fun," said Felix, holding the pendant box he had just obtained. "Also, I still have things to do."


    Sonya nodded. "You''re not nning to continue learning swordsmanship?"


    Half of the spirits and orbs from the treasure chest had nothing to do with swordsmanship. Among the miracle forms, there was only one sword form, while the rest wereposite forms for wind, water, and poison magic. Yet this was the treasure his mother had left for him. Clearly, the path his mother had arranged for him was not one of swordsmanship.


    "Professor Trotzam is a good teacher. I still need his protection for now," Felix said with a smile. "I''ll keep learning swordsmanship, just not as intensely as you."


    "The second son of the Vlozrada family also needs protection?"


    "Let alone a mere second son, even if I were the Duke of Vlozrada, I''d still have to watch out for vengeful retaliation from the shadows." Felix''s voice was cold.


    Sonya raised her eyebrows. "You nobles really are chaotic."


    "Yet you still want to be one of them, no?" Felix shook his head. "Sometimes, I''m actually quite envious of you, Sonya Therave..."


    "Alright, enough nonsense from a pampered noble brat. It''s nauseating." Sonya waved her hand. "But since I''m your senior sister and have also benefited from this treasure trove, in both personal ties and justice, there''s something I should tell you in advance."


    Felix frowned. When it came to Sonya calling herself his senior sister, he was quite helpless too. After all, Professor Trotzam had epted Sonya as a disciple first before taking him in. In order of sequence, Sonya was indeed a bit more senior.


    "If you have to flee in the future because of noble infighting and urgently need help, have nowhere to take refuge..."


    Felix was a bit surprised. He had brought up the Duke of Vlozrada, yet Sonya still dared to meddle in his affairs? This forced him to revise his understanding of Sonya''s character -


    "Then remember to nevere looking for me. To wash away suspicion and protect my future prospects, I''ll definitely cate you first to stay put, then bring people to arrest you and exchange you for a title reward. Listen, I''m telling you this beforehand. If you suddenly get apse of judgementter and stubbornly ce your hopes on me, don''t me your harsh and ruthless senior sister for going back on her word."


    Althoughpletely different from his imagination, Felix still refreshed his understanding of Sonya''s character.

 Chapter 73

    Chapter 73


    The Sea of Knowledge, the virtual world.


    "You couldn''t find anyone willing to escape with you after a whole day?"


    Sonya shed forcefully, splitting her sword energy into several spinning ripple rings that gnawed at the earth barrier like electric saws. It was the new miracle she had just learned, ''Ripple sh''.


    "Yeah."


    Ashe sighed. He pointed his imaginary sword and guided his sword heart to pierce through the barrier. But as soon as his sword pierced oneyer, the barrier grew another. It seemed endless.


    "Not a single one?"


    "Well, not no one. Other than Igor whom I have a contract with, no one else was willing...or rather, they don''t believe it''s possible."


    "If Shattered Lake Prison has never had a sessful prison break before, they do have reason not to believe you."


    "It''s not just that," Ashe sighed again. "More than saying they don''t believe me for objective reasons, it''s more urate to say they subjectively refuse to believe."


    Ashe had spent the entire day today following Igor to persuade other powerful inmates, like ''Diamond'' Taig, ''ck Beast'' Took, and ''Hundred Spirit Bird'' Joell. Each of them were vicious and wicked sorcerers before being imprisoned. Their criminal records could each be made into a thrilling novel.


    But they all refused to participate in the prison break.


    To be honest, Ashe wasn''t surprised by this. Given Shattered Lake Prison''s high-pressure rule and its near absolute istion on an ind, it would be abnormal if the death row inmates immediately believed they could escape. Skepticism was reasonable.


    But the problem was, the inmates didn''t show skepticism, but refusal.


    They refused to escape.


    And the one negotiating wasn''t even Ashe, but Igor the ''Beautiful Beast'', who was quite famous in prison. Although Igor was a conman, he had a good reputation and rarely lied. He was even one of the rare intelligence dealers in prison, so he was quite popr.


    In his own words, ''Lying is a taboo for conmen. Reputation is a conman''s face. Honesty is the most important quality for a conman. The biggest failure for a conman is when others are unwilling to interact with him.''


    Therefore, Igor''s words carried considerable weight. Even if the inmates didn''t believe him, they should have at least asked Igor for more details to make a better judgement.


    But they didn''t.


    Even when Igor said he ''might have a way to remove the restrictions of the control chip'', no one asked further questions like ''how?'' or ''really?''. They simply showed expressions like ''that''s enough'' and switched topics or walked away.


    In this entire huge prison, they couldn''t even find a single ally who wanted to escape. Ashe felt like this was the worst batch of criminals he had ever seen.


    But Igor had already expected this reaction.


    During dinner, he resolved Ashe''s confusion with one sentence:


    "They aren''t who they used to be anymore. Even shit will be fertilizer if you let it sit long enough."


    If time was the best poison, then Shattered Lake Prison was undoubtedly the bestpost heap. Whether you were harmful or poisonous, once you enter, you''ll be nutrients for me.


    Even ordinary people could change a lot after a few years. After being imprisoned for so long, how could these death row inmates possibly still be their former vicious and wicked selves?


    In fact, many of the death row inmates would sincerely regret their past crimes when looking back, feeling that their past selves were so immature and impulsive. Even if they didn''t regret it, they would gradually lose hope for the outside world over time, finding their ce of belonging in Shattered Lake Prison.


    Igor said something very true - Shattered Lake Prison was a utopia. Crime was forbidden here. There was no racial discrimination, cursing, fights, or even cutting in line or public urination/defecation.


    As long as you followed the rules, everyone could live very freely. You didn''t need to watch other''s faces, because no one could harm or affect your interests. It was true equality.


    The death row inmatesmitted heinous crimes out of greed, depravity, impulse and other reasons ultimately because they were ustomed to a criminal lifestyle - only that way of life made them feel secure.


    The Shattered Lake Prison forcibly changed their lifestyle, yet was still able to make them feel secure.


    Feeling secure can be addictive. When someone is in this environment long-term, free ofplex social rtionships and thepetitive external world, even if the inmates outwardly scorn the prison''s restrictions, being released into society would actually leave them feeling lost, especially if they were able to live a tranquil life in prison.


    Many death row inmates can''t even get up early, let alone voluntarily leave theirfort zone. Looking at it this way, the Shattered Lake Prison was quite sessful in reforming the death row inmates.


    Without any hardbor or punishment, just with various restrictions, KPI assessments and elimination of the lowest performers, the inmates were transformed intopliant workers who voluntarily work overtime, obediently contributing their residual value in prison.


    If they had no residual value, they could earn money by participating in trial livestreams - there was always suitable work for the death row inmates.


    What Ashe and Igor were inviting them to do was like asking them to start their own business with unknown prospects, insufficient funds, and the need for them to pay out of their own pockets.


    Most importantly, even if the business failed, what if it seeded? Wouldn''t they have to return to that society where they''d have to struggle and rely on themselves? Just thinking about it was terrifying. It''d be better to just buy a toy gun, rob a bank, and wait for the Heresy Court to bring them home.


    Even Igor probably wouldn''t be willing to participate in the escape if not for Ashe binding him with the rebound contract. Admittedly, he could live better outside, but he would also live in constant fear and paranoia of the Heresy Court.


    Here, even conmen could feel at ease.


    If not for Professor Bessel and the Blood Moon Tribunal, Ashe felt Shattered Lake Prison could be a nice vacation spot. Not only could you enjoy the scenery here, you''d also be forced to cleanse your soul. Once you leave, you''d never be able to fart freely in bed again and would have to run to the bathroom.


    As such, Ashe felt like he was an evil viin forcing chaste reformed criminals back into a life of sin. Igor was like an innocent maiden whom he had ckmailed, who was just trying to live a peaceful life, but now had to be the head courtesan in Ashe''s employ...


    m!


    With a muffled bang, the earth barrier that Ashe and Sonya had been attacking for over 10 minutes finally exploded, revealing the elderly sorcerer hiding within. Before he could speak, Sonya''s ''Wicked Light sh'' and Ashe''s ''Sword Heart'' directly tore him apart, bursting into three spirit familiars and a sorcerer''s handbook.


    This was the best sorcerer inheritance Ashe had encountered since entering the virtual world.


    Because this sorcerer did not usebat abilities.


    He couldn''t fight at all. All he did was continuously create earth barriers for defense. At first, Ashe was a little worried the ground might suddenly sprout spikes to give him an acupuncture massage. But nothing happened. The projection just cowered behind the earth barriers, as if this inheritance was to test their damage output efficiency.


    "Sorcerers like him are actually the mainstream," Sonya said. "Or rather, dedicatedbat sorcerers are the minority. Most learn production schools that can find them good jobs, and just pick up a littlebat on the side. Many sorcerers go through life without ever having abat spirit familiar, and rarely have opportunities to fight others. Like medical mages, meteorologists, architects, agriculturalists..."


    She grumbled, "If not for you insisting, I learn swordsmanship, I could have been a nonbat water mage medic now."


    Ashe was puzzled. "But they can''t bepletely nonbat, right? Even if they don''t need to fight in reality, the knowledge creatures in the virtual world aren''t going to check their ID and let them go right?"


    "There are more ways to deal with knowledge creatures than just fighting. Sorcerers have many methods, like running, defending, etc."


    "But without ever fighting, how do they obtain new spirit familiars?"


    Sonyaughed. She picked up the slumbering spirit on the ground and casually said, "Study! Cultivate! Research!"


    "People like us who can gain something in the virtual world every day are truly rare. For most sorcerers, the main way to obtain spirit familiars is to trigger resonance in the virtual world by improving their mastery of their school of magic, thus giving birth to new spirit familiars."


    "A sorcerer''s foundation is their knowledge. Diligent study is the proper path for a sorcerer. What we''re doing now, fighting and adventuring, is actually the crooked path. Academy-trained sorcerers who grow step-by-step haveplete spirit familiar systems. Us adventurer sorcerers have messy, unclear systems, far inferiorpared to academy sorcerers."


    "And we can''t skip lessons either. Once our Silver Wings fully condense, we''ll have to double back to take sses, raise our mastery of our schools of magic. Without golden-grade mastery, we won''t be able to summon dual-winged spirit familiars. We''d be stuck swimming in ce in the Sea of Knowledge forever, never reaching the Timnds!"


    Production is the orthodox path;bat is the heterodox path?


    Ashe secretly sighed. Comprehensive superhuman systems that required moral, intellectual, physical, and artistic development were what he feared most. He knew himself well - he was just an ordinary person, with neither sports talent nor academic ability. Other than paid toilet breaks, he had no special skills. If not for clutching the sorcerer handbook Aurora''s Guide for Sorcerers, he wouldn''t have had the chance to be a sorcerer at all.


    Why weren''t there any superhuman systems where you just drank a magic potion, digested it, and leveled up?


    "Speaking of which, didn''t you mention before there''s a golden fish in the virtual world? Reaching it would let us get to the Timnds?"


    "Just a rumor. And even the Observer doesn''t know where the golden fish is, how could I possibly know?" Sonya quickly skimmed through the sorcerer''s handbook, joking, "Don''t tell me you''re pinning your hopes on the golden fish? You might as well hope the prison suddenly riots tomorrow and you can escape in the chaos..."


    Seeing Sonya make a strange noise, Ashe asked, "What''s up? Another handbook that shes with your values?"


    "How to put it...I feel you should prepare yourself a bit before leaving the virtual world."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Because the prison might really riot!"


    Sonya squeezed next to Ashe excitedly and flipped the handbook open to a page in the middle, showing it to him.


    Written on it were the words:


    "I''ve found the golden fish."

 Chapter 74

    Chapter 74


    Ashe and Sonya sat in a small boat, intently reading the leather-bound Sorcerer''s Handbook.


    Like the previous handbooks, this one did not contain any personal information about its owner, who could only be referred to as "The Explorer". Why was he called that? Because his greatest passion was exploring various naturalndscapes, and the contents of this handbook were about the various sites he had visited in the past.


    "Lava Cave"


    "After working at the construction site for over a year across three phases, the project finally ended. I should be able to visit theva cave before my foreman takes on another job."


    "I went to the vige closest to theva cave, but my foreman said he had another big projecting up. Oh well."


    "A few monthster, I made time to explore theva cave again. I got lucky this time - I paid a local a good amount of money to guide me inside."


    "It was amazing -va flowing across the ground, explosive pollen from the blooming flowers, yet inside theva cave it was a cool and refreshing underground river... An incredible spectacle!"


    "I''m so happy, so thrilled! I encountered a female green fire dragon that must have escaped from the Virtual World long ago and made a nest in theva cave! Haha, I took photos - the submission fee I earned from that alone would be enough for me toe here again!"


    This was generally the format - the Explorer would often go through twists and turns before starting his journeys, sometimes having to interrupt due to work. Hemented the present circumstances but did not forget about poetry and distant ces.


    "He was probably a civil engineer," Sonya remarked, and Ashe nodded in agreement.


    Living on construction sites long-term, working nonstop when there was a project and having no ie when there wasn''t, and travelling solo... The Explorer would probably remain single well into old age. Civil engineers really were the same no matter which world you were in.


    The first half of the handbook contained sites the Explorer had visited in the real world, while the second half contained sites in the Sea of Knowledge - to the Explorer, the Virtual World was also a scenic destination.


    If they came across a Sorcerer who enjoyed fishing, Ashe had no doubt they would go fishing in the Sea of Knowledge. But fishing there was extremely risky and unrewarding - either the fish would fly away or the knowledge creature would have no fish.


    There were many sights to see in the Sea of Knowledge, including the "Maelstrom", "Sea Waterfall", "Great Road", "Sky Bubbles" and other permanent fixtures even Sonya had not heard of before - Swordflower College naturally would not teach them since they offered no benefits or help to Sorcerers unlike the Maelstrom.


    The "Sea Waterfall" was just as its name suggested, a waterfall dropping down from the sea surface. The "Great Road" was and path that spanned the entire Sea of Knowledge. The "Sky Bubbles" were gigantic bubbles floating in the sky, making the surrounding fog lighter when they appeared.


    The Explorer had witnessed these three sites personally. He had jumped into the sea waterfall to see what was below, only to die instantly in the Virtual World. He had run very far down the Great Road until he copsed from exhaustion. He watched the sky bubbles drift by, moving too fast for him to catch up.


    The words in the Sorcerer''s Handbook exuded the Explorer''s joy and excitement upon witnessing these natural wonders. Even Ashe and Sonya could not help but smile.


    Finally, they reached the chapter about the Golden Fish.


    "Golden Fish"


    "I researched extensively, consulted many schrs, trying to find clues about the Golden Fish''s location. But it is the greatest secret in the Sea of Knowledge, with pathetically little information avable. So I turned to novels about the Golden Fish - perhaps someone who found it could not resist bragging and secretly hid the truth in fiction? I think it''s very possible."


    "Most Sorcerers and schrs believe the Golden Fish should be in the most dangerous core region. But I have a different view: the Golden Fish carries the entire continent on its back - how could such a massive fish fit in the core area?


    "But no Sorcerer has fully explored the core region, so the Sea of Knowledge may be much vaster than we imagine."


    "Only Sorcerers who have fully spread their Silver Wings can find the Golden Fish? Very likely. I should hurry andplete my ten thousand mile journey."


    "I have spread my Silver Wings and been to the core region, yet there is no trace of the Golden Fish. Does it stay underwater most of the time, only surfacing asionally?"


    "Quite possible. I''ve decided to dive underwater. I died."


    "Died."


    "Died."


    "I should retire... My friends all advise me not to go to the Virtual World - dying there at my age would severely shorten my lifespan. Thest time I died there, I nearly went brain dead."


    "But I feel I really saw the Golden Fish... Even if I die right after catching a glimpse, it would be worth it..."


    "Golden Fish, where are you..."


    "I think I found the Golden Fish."


    Damn! Ashe and Sonya nearly wanted to drag out the elderly Sorcerer and beat him up again - how could you leave out the most crucial information? We want to know how you found the Golden Fish!


    We''ll give you two coins, now finish the story!


    "If it''s true, then the Golden Fish is too massive for a normal person to climb onto. Fortunately, I''m an earth mage - I can continuously pile up mounds of earth to gain height. This elevation is nothing to me - it seems I may get to witness the Golden Fish''s true form in this lifetime."


    "Tenyers... fiftyyers... one hundredyers... no, the foundation needs reworking. The Golden Fish is just too high up."


    "Two hundredyers... three hundredyers... five hundredyers..."


    "If only I could fly."


    "When I reached over eight hundredyers, the mound under my feet copsed. Falling from this height, my entire soul would likely shatter... At least the tombstone I prepared for myself will finally be put to use."


    "Though I have some regrets, at least I found the Golden Fish before death - now I can die content... Wait, I haven''t cleaned up my collection at home yet!"


    The Sorcerer''s Handbook ended there - the Golden Fish was thest sight the Explorer pursued in his lifetime.


    "So how did he find the Golden Fish in the end?" Sonya asked, puzzled. "He couldn''t find it for the longest time, then suddenly encountered it?"


    "Maybe because he was too old?" Ashe guessed. "Could the Golden Fish only appear before Sorcerers nearing death?"


    After some discussion, they could not figure it out. Since their Silver Wings were not fully formed yet, Ashe and Sonya decided not to worry about finding the Golden Fish for now.


    The three magic spirits the Explorer had dropped were all earth spirits that could form a miracle, but Ashe and Sonya had no interest in earth magic. After discussing, Ashe kept them - earth magic corresponded to lower paying production jobs, so earth spirits had low value. Sonya selling them wouldn''t earn much money either.


    As for the Sorcerer''s Handbook, Ashe felt a civil engineer''s skills would not help him much, so he gave it to the Swordswoman.


    After all, he had consumed three handbooks already while this was the Swordswoman''s first time getting one she could absorb. It was only right for her to have a turn.


    In truth, the skills from Sorcerer Handbooks were rarely useful - things like ''Counter-reconnaissance'', ''Secrets of Bliss (only effective on females over 2m tall)'', ''Skinning Mastery'' - useless little tricks that did not improve quality of life much or look good on a resume, unless the interviewer happened to be a tall female orc.


    This was Sonya''s first time absorbing a Sorcerer''s Handbook. She looked rather nervous. "Speaking of which, what did he mean by ''I haven''t cleaned up my collection at home'' before he died? Why did he care about his collection?"


    "Well, the Explorer was an elderly bachelor after all, so he definitely had some unspeakable things in his collection," Ashe shrugged. "As the saying goes, better leave a clean name behind in this world."


    As he spoke, Sonya finished absorbing the handbook and looked at Ashe with an odd expression.


    "What skill did you get? Fire drilling or wilderness survival? Or maybe bachelor cooking?"


    "No, it''s a very useful skill," she replied solemnly. "Eye Insight - it allows me to better understand someone''s thoughts by looking into their eyes. It seems to be because the Explorer met many different people while travelling, and having lived a long life full of stories, he naturally gained the ability to see through human nature."


    Ashe nearly fell into the water in anger.


    That was exactly the skill he needed for his prison break!

 Chapter 75

    Chapter 75


    Shattered Lake Prison.


    "If hurt enough, sh open with a pair of hands, curse yesterday..."


    Ashe looked at the recharge page on the light screen, lost in thought.


    Yesterday''s virtual world exploration didn''t yield much. Ashe barely found an "worth a visit" area, but discovered there was a Slicing Fish Dragon inside.


    He and the Swordswoman fought hard against it, but still couldn''t kill the Slicing Fish Dragon in the end. That Slicing Fish Dragon cunningly pretended it would die with them, then dove into the water and escaped after farting out two spells - spells in the bubbly diarrhea.


    So Ashe and the Swordswoman could only very humiliatingly catch the Slicing Fish Dragon''s farts, watching it disappear into the white fog.


    The damage was low, but the insult was extremely strong.


    Ashe was taught another good lesson by the virtual world - the survival environment of sorcerers was so harsh, no wonder the death row inmates didn''t feel anything about not being able to enter or leave the virtual world - the virtual world was a ce where you might not seed even if you tried hard, but would definitely feel very rxed if you gave up.


    The difference between reality and the virtual world was that reality was a garbage game dominated by pay-to-win yers, while the virtual world was a garbage game dominated by lucky yers. The average sorcerer''s gaming experience was to first get beaten up badly in reality, then get ravaged in the virtual world, fully experiencing the disparity of the world.


    The two spells farted out by the Slicing Fish Dragon were not great either, so they were naturally taken by Ashe to recharge, as a tortured yer like him who started out in hell difficulty in reality could only change his fate by recharging.


    The problem came when Ashe was recharging the Sorcerer''s Handbook - he suddenly realized the price of a single-wing spell was only 8 points!


    It was clearly still worth 10 points a few days ago!


    What was going on, game system, did you fix the Apple payment channel and are now charging me Apple tax?


    The five spells only recharged 40 points, a full 20% less!


    However, Ashe had no way toin or inquire, not because the game system hadn''t fixed theint module, but because theirpany''s game simply didn''t have aint module...


    But Ashe also had some vague guesses - it was probably rted to his own strength.


    After crossing the vortex, his Silver Wings were also more than halfway condensed. As his arcane energy grew, the power of his spells naturally also increased. For him and the Swordswoman, the difficulty of exploring the virtual world decreased linearly - the most obvious manifestation was that the number of "worth a visit" and "a bit troublesome" areas increased a lot on the virtual world map, and "suicide zones" only asionally appeared once.


    When the Silver Wings spread open, Ashe was afraid he could achieve spell freedom, harvesting seven or eight spells every night, bursting the game system, and the first thing he did every morning was a ten pull to test his luck.


    But this was obviously impossible.


    Even if Ashe''s brain lost imagination after working as a corporate ve for a few years, with his dailyputing power only used on lunch choices, he also knew the game system must have problems and would not leave such an obvious loophole for himself.


    Clearly, in order to prevent value copse, the game system''s method was: reduce returns.


    Or rather, taxation mechanisms.


    Ashe guessed that after advancing to two wings, the price of single-wing spells would drop to 5 points or even lower. When he spread three wings open, the price of single-wing spells would even drop so low that he would be toozy to pick them up off the ground.


    Ashe strongly suspected that the selling point of this game might be "free spells for all", with all harvested spells directly recharged as money, giving yers a feeling that "this game is so generous".


    But as the yer''s strength increased, the price of the low-level spells they defeated would decrease. To improve their gold efficiency, they would have to obtain higher-level spells... In the end, all yers'' daily ie would be about the same. As everyone knows, giving everyone money is equal to giving no one money, so this taxation mechanism was an additional supplement to the check-in system that could effectively increase yers'' online time.


    "So the greater the ability, the more tax you pay..." Ashe sighed and went out for breakfast.


    As for the newly obtained 40 points, he would naturally let them be for now. He had already bought the Source Crystal Pack worth 30 points, and without the first recharge double reward, Ashe''s next small goal was the ''Pile of Source Crystal Packs'' worth 98 points.


    Arriving at the central hall, Ashe was surprised to find many people gathered here, with people even arguing with the prison guards in front - Ashe was overjoyed to see this - could a prison riot really happen?


    He squeezed to the front and saw that the light screen in the hall was broadcasting news:


    "A warm celebration of Caimon City being rated as the region with the best public security nationwide. Mayor Fernand Snow attended a press conference, where he thanked everyone for their indelible contributions..."


    Damn, this news was so mocking! Which death row inmate would watch this kind of news!


    Ashe looked closely and saw a notice posted next to the light screen:


    "Special Task Volunteer Recruitment"


    "Requirements: Two-wingbat sorcerer or above"


    "Reward: Afterpleting the special task, the inmate''s sentence will bemuted from ''Salvation'' to ''Probation for 5 Years'', and will be awarded a government job, a house in Caimon City, and a one-time subsidy of eight hundred gold coins."


    "Number of Personnel: No Limit"


    "I, I''m a two-wing hybrid sorcerer, golden wings fully spread, fire element and wind element fully mastered, I even know the miracle spell ''Dragon Poetry Vanquisher''! Why don''t you choose me?"


    "And I, I''m a two-wing gunmage, former Blood Mad Hunter member, outstanding battle record and good family background, just identally crossed the line and ended up in Shattered Lake, I''m clearly the kind of former Hunter sorcerer who should be chosen!"


    "You have to at least give a reason for rejection, there''s no limit on the number of people, why not allow me to be a volunteer?"


    "I actually don''t care about getting out of prison, I just want to do something to contribute to society, so why stop me from serving the country?"


    The prison guard sitting at the front registration desk looked aloof,pletely ignoring the cries of these job seekers, and coldly said, "Next."


    Ashe also wanted to sign up, but unfortunately he wasn''t even a two-wing sorcerer, so he didn''t have the qualifications to submit his resume. But he was also unwilling to leave, so he could only stand aside and watch eagerly, not knowing what he was waiting for.


    "What a great opportunity, unfortunately you can''t grasp it. You look like a vulgar man who knows he has no right to make advances, but still hopes a beautifuldy will suddenly go blind and be willing to spend a wonderful night with you."


    Ashe nced at Igor and asked, "Aren''t you going to sign up?"


    "I signed up, but unfortunately wasn''t chosen." Igor looked at the surging registration point and shook his head, "Fortunately I wasn''t chosen, I''m not confident I could survive in this kind of special task."


    "Do you know what the special task is?"


    "I don''t, but can guess. I observed that the selected death row inmates basically all specialized in water, earth, wind and light elements."


    "What''s special about these spell elements?"


    "Let me put it clearer - the selected death row inmates basically all had these charges in their crimes: multiple resist arrests, long-term escapee, rich criminal experience,mitted crimes across multiple cities."


    Multiple resist arrests, long-term escapee? Recalling the formidable Blood Mad Hunters in the Heresy Court, Ashe immediately realized: "They are very good at escaping?"


    "That''s right." Igor nodded, "This special task probably doesn''t requirebat or social skills, but needs volunteers to have sufficient escape experience and survival skills. No matter how you think about it, it must be an extremely dangerous reconnaissance mission. I have to say, in Caimon City, the people who meet these two requirements are indeed all in Shattered Lake Prison."


    "I didn''t know these kinds of tasks that pardon death row inmates would appear." Ashe said, "Do these tasks happen often? Have death row inmates openly left through these tasks before?"


    "Of course not. I''ve been here for over a year and this is the first time I''ve seen it. I asked some other old inmates earlier and they also saw this kind of task that could pardon death row inmates for the first time. At most, previous special tasks just rewarded some contribution points to death row inmates."


    Igor narrowed his eyes slightly: "Speaking of which, for a proposal like pardoning death row inmates, the Order Faction would definitely not approve it, and the parliament would also quarrel over it for a long time... Exactly what kind of huge benefits could make even the Order Faction agree to such a dangerous proposal?"


    "Order Faction?" Ashe heard a new term.


    "You don''t know? It''s one of the factions in parliament, opposed to the Human Rights Association. The Human Rights Association advocates people-oriented goals, that allws should aim to protect people, and people cannot be treated as consumables; while the Order Faction advocates pursuing absolute order,ws must be strictly enforced, and people''s appeals and emotions need not be considered."


    "Most bills need to reach a bnce point between the two factions to pass. Things like the Blood Moon Tribunal are the result of the Order Faction and Human Rights Association debating for many years. The Order Faction hopes death row inmates die as quickly as possible, while the Human Rights Association believes death row inmates still have the chance to repent and reform themselves, and the Blood Moon Tribunal allows some death row inmates to contribute value to society while giving the people the power to judge, thus obtaining unanimous approval from parliament members."


    Igor looked at Ashe, "Things like your ''extra dosage'' Blood Moon Tribunal the day before yesterday, the Order Faction must have exerted quite some effort... Forgot to mention, Professor Sylin, the city councilor, is a member of the Order Faction."


    Hearing this news, Ashe''s desire to escape prison grew even more intense - having such a political viin like him inciting outside, thew could no longer be Ashe''s shield.


    "So what exactly is the special task?"


    "Benefits substantial enough to silence the Order Faction, recruiting volunteers skilled in escape and survival, plus the approaching spring-summer transition... Thinking it through, there''s likely only one possibility."


    Igor said, "Caimon City has appeared stable virtual world rifts, and there may be a virtual world passage inside leading to other nations."


    "If a stable virtual world passage can be found, that would be a feat to please the Blood Moon."


    Cailleach, Swordflower College.


    Other than Ingritt who went running in the morning, the other three were still in the dorm.


    Seeing Adele hugging her doll asleep, Iris got out of bed, grabbed the ice spring water spray and angrily sprayed a face full, instantly bing fully awake - truly cruel morning skincare torture.


    At this time, Sonya was already showering in the bathroom, so Iris could only wash her face first then apply a thickyer of jelly mask, squeezing time to read a book - she couldn''t use sheet masks or the essence would drip down to her chin.


    To quickly be a watermage and get the Flow spell back from Sonya, Iris could onlypress her own skincare and makeup time to squeeze out time to learn and cultivate.


    At times like this, Iris was always both resentful and admiring of Sonya - how could this world have such a girl who still had time to dress up and learn quickly?


    Suddenly, the Miracle Bracelet vibrated slightly, and Iris tapped it to check the message, which was from the Meteorological Institute.


    "Meteorological sorcerers announce this week is Virtual Rift Week, with increased probability of virtual passages appearing around Cailleach."


    "Please report immediately to the Police Department if you discover virtual passages or suspicious persons."

 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76


    "Virtual world turbulence? Virtual world passages?"


    Since this was obscure knowledge, Ashe didn''t feel surprised that Igora was aware of it: "These are rare magical disasters that ur when sorcerers establish a connection to the virtual world through the Gate of Truth. Some areas of the virtual world are unstable, and can spill knowledge back through the Gate of Truth, causing spaces in reality to be distorted by virtual world knowledge."


    Igora gestured as he exined: "You can imagine the virtual world as a big jelly. Sorcerers enter the jelly through a straw, and everything is fine. But part of the jelly has rotted and dissolved away, and the liquid from there flows back up the straw into reality, corroding a hole through it... This is virtual world turbulence."


    "As for virtual world passages, they form because the knowledge that spills into reality wants to return to the virtual world. Most turbulence quickly dissipates, but some denser flows of chaotic knowledge solidify into passages, trying to get back to the virtual world."


    "But knowledge without an owner can''t open the Gate of Truth, so these partial passages end up hovering outside the virtual world, forming half-passages to and from it."


    "Half-passages?" Ashe was puzzled. "So how do they beplete virtual world passages?"


    "Remember when I said part of the jelly had rotted?" Igora said. "So these magical disasters caused by turbulence don''t just happen once or twice, but in batches all over the world. Any sorcerer who has visited the rotted area could trigger turbulence and form different half-passages locally."


    "The closer the coordinates these half-passages point to in the virtual world are, the more likely they are tobine and form aplete passage that connects two real world locations."


    Ashe grasped the idea using his meager mathematical knowledge: Half-passage A wants to return to point C in the virtual world, forming passage AC. Meanwhile, half-passage B also wants to return to point C, forming passage BC.


    But since the Gate of Truth is closed, even if A and B make it to the gate and desperately w at it, C won''te out. At this point, A and B, who are both down on their luck, meet outside the gate. They give up on C and connect to form theplete AB passage, living happily ever after together.


    "So the closer the Gates different sorcerers open are to each other, the more easily a virtual world passage forms between them?"


    Igora nodded. "That''s how it works in theory, but it''s virtually impossible to manufacture a passage this way."


    Ashe''s expression became grave. "Isn''t that really dangerous for sorcerers then? Once they open a Gate in a rotten area, won''t their bodies be sucked into the virtual world turbulence?"


    "No, virtual world knowledge would never harm a sorcerer," Igora replied.


    "Why not?"


    "They''re afraid of us." Igora shrugged. "Even spirits flee when they see us. Why would you think the knowledge that makes up spirits would dare harm sorcerers?"


    "There''s an amusing theory that for the virtual world, we sorcerers are like predators. Any knowledge that identally spills into reality is like refugees who have stumbled into enemy territory. They can barely flee fast enough, let alone dare to challenge the vicious predators we are."


    "Virtual knowledge often escapes to areas with few sorcerers, like underground or the skies. Then it settles and distorts the space, trying to return to the virtual world, forming turbulence or passages."


    Igora described the disaster as helpless and endearing... Ashe nced at the bustling registration point. "So exploring virtual world passages is pretty dangerous?"


    "I don''t know!" Igora admitted candidly. "But not all passages areplete ones. What do you think happens to the pioneers who venture into half-passages?"


    "Still, if they find a passage to another realm and make it back sessfully, that aplishment would surely offset their death sentence."


    Ashe raised his eyebrows. "That doesn''t sound too hard. Just take a look, flee back if you survive, purely luck-based. Why do you need survival and escape capabilities?"


    Igora shook his head. "If the other side leads to an uninhabited area, you could return immediately. But if it''s another realm with people, volunteers definitely wouldn''t be able toe back right away."


    "Why not? Do they need to go through customs when crossing over or something?"


    "Think about it from another angle. If strangers from an unknown realm found a passage to the Blood Moon Kingdom, wouldn''t you take precautions in advance?"


    Ashe was about to ask how to safeguard against unknown enemies, but he stopped short - this was a world full of miracles where sorcerers dwelled, and the one absolute truth was that nothing was absolute.


    Things that seemed near impossible to Ashe could be child''s y for high-tier sorcerers.


    The knowledge gap between sorcerers created insurmountable divides. Ashe still didn''t understand how the chip in his neck prevented him from farting outside of restrooms.


    "The Blood Moon Kingdom has kingdom-wide surveince miracles. The Church is notified immediately of any outsiders. At the same time, the Blood Moon casts down curses restricting outsiders from teleporting ormunicating for 48 hours," Igora exined, hugging himself. "When I was 7, an outsider appeared in Feimeng City, seemingly fleeing to somewhere near my orphanage. The Blood Mad Hunters turned the ce upside down searching for them..."


    "You''re not from Caimon City?"


    Igora shrugged. "When you''ve fooled most people in Feimeng City, it''s time to tap new markets."


    The virtual world passages were undoubtedly major events that could shift power bnces, but meant nothing to their prison break squad. If anything, it made recruitment more difficult.


    Maybe more volunteers woulde tomorrow?


    Maybe he had a chance to return to society fair and square?


    This sudden amnesty greatly dampened the morale of these staunch escapees. How could they continue their ideological work now?


    Just as Ashe was at a loss and about to go eat some L Fat to find inspiration, amotion broke out at the registration point.


    "Pick me, please pick me! I''m the ''Golden Beak'' of the Woodpeckers, I''m well-versed in all kinds of murder methods. I really want to be a volunteer, please pick me, wuuu��"


    "Water magic, gunpowder magic, light magic, earth magic, explosives... your spellcasting aptitudes meet the requirements, but you only have single-wing arcane power, below the minimum threshold. I''m afraid not."


    Hearing this, everyone looked at the tall kneeling man in astonishment.


    Igora provided an introduction: "Golden Beak is the Woodpecker Gang''s best hitman. His assassination targets have included many famous figures, politicians, businessmen... With his missions being no less difficult than killing a two-wing sorcerer, the fact that he became the Golden Beak as a one-wing sorcerer means he has exceptional professional capabilities."


    Ashe recognized the man. "Isn''t he Langna''s ''friend'' Ronat Wade?"


    "That''s right, and he''s also a new arrival this month." Igora had a subtle smile. "No wonder he got close to Langna... Looks like he''s realized something and is desperately trying to save himself."


    "Save himself? Is he in danger?"


    "Do you know Langna''s nickname?"


    "I do. ''Gourmet'' Langna - it''s because of his peculiar tastes, right?"


    Although Langna''s preferences were rather bizarre, this prison was the ultimate cesspool gathering degenerates. Right now, Ashe was chatting with a cannibal nonchntly. He could discuss Langna''s minor perversions without any emotional response.


    "Most people only see the surface, but the reality goes much deeper." Igora wagged his finger. "Langna doesn''t even spare the insides."


    "What''s so different about that?"


    "Extremely different. Don''t be fooled by Ronat''sck of external injuries. His insides have already been eaten away by Langna."


    "...Is this some vulgar joke?"


    "Ashe, your words and actions make me feel like the Four Pirs Church is a sleazy old men''s club for rxing after work. Keeping you alive only makes food more expensive." Igora responded lightly, revealing Langna''s horrifying and bizarre secret.


    But Ashe''s eyes only grew brighter as he listened.


    Looking at Ronat still clinging stubbornly over there, he said, "Perhaps we''ve found a teammate."

 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77


    "Bring six bottles of Vodka here, it''s on me!"


    "Get me a huge tter of lobster ravioli, I''ll pay with contribution points!"


    "A round of ale for everyone, this one''s on me ''ck Beast'' Tuck!"


    It was noontime, the registration point had been cleared away and volunteer recruitment was over.


    The cafeteria was lively, the condemned prisoners who had been selected hurried to spend their contribution points on feasting and drinking. These viins who hadmitted all kinds of misdeeds were even voluntarily buying drinks and sharing joy. After all, as volunteers they would either get out of prison alive or disappear without a trace, so their contribution points were useless anyway - of course they had to spend it all quickly.


    The most tragic thing in life is when someone dies with money still left unspent.


    And even more tragic is having money left unspent, but desperately wanting to die.


    Ronald Wade was thetter.


    He looked at the sumptuous food in front of him. His stomach was hungry but he had no appetite at all.


    The cafeteria server brought over the chilled ale that ''ck Beast'' Tuck had bought for everyone. Ronald had not touched any alcohol for many days, though he used to drink like water every day before being jailed. Having taken a sip of the ale, what should have been a refreshing drink to his parched throat tasted like water with a hint of bitterness.


    Boring.


    Everything was boring.


    Being jailed was boring, living was boring, even masturbation was boring. The only thing now that could make Ronald''s pituitary nd send strong signals, the only thing that could make him feel alive, was -


    "Woo woo!"


    Ronald suddenly plunged his face into the food, frantically shoving it into his mouth with his hands. He chewed vigorously, his teeth gnashing back and forth to tear apart the tendons in the meat slices, as if only this could make him temporarily forget that kind of nauseating yet irresistible primal craving!


    "Quite an appetite you''ve got there. Though you look pretty thin, do you normally work out?"


    Ronald looked up to see two infamous personalities of the prison - no need to introduce Igor of course, skilled at financially devastating new inmates through contracted spirits, while also being an information broker in the prison.


    Langna had told him on the very first day to be extremely wary of anything Igor said, that he''d never know when he might unknowingly enter into an unfair contract with Igor.


    Having been jailed only a short while, Ronald had yet to witness Igor''s vicious side, and thus did not have much guard up against him. The other infamous figure, ''Warlock'' Ashe, left an even deeper impression - defeating Igor first, then oveing Valcas, surviving the Blood Moon Tribunal from a nearly doomed predicament.


    To Ronald, Ashe seemed fated for defeat every time, yet somehow he kept winning.


    From not being able to fight at all to knocking Igor out with one punch, from not knowing how to use a sword to stabbing through Valcas'' throat, in the Blood Moon Tribunal Valcas clearly wanted to bring him along to meet the Blood Moon Sovereign, yet somehow his head remained intact...


    If this had happened outside, Ronald would surely feel like he was witnessing the birth of a new legend.


    What a pity this was Shattered Lake Prison.


    No matter the miracles, here they were just bubbles surfacing in theke, popping when they reached the water''s surface, never able to exist under the sun.


    "No I don''t."


    "Then howe you''re so skinny?" Ashe took a big bite out of a sandwich, "Did your body fat run away by itself?"


    Ronald raised his eyebrows slightly, his face expressionless. "Let''s be real here, if you wanna cause trouble for Langna just go look for him directly. I''m not interested in getting involved in your grudges."


    "No no, we came to find you." Ashe said. "Still feeling down that you didn''t get chosen as a volunteer? Don''t worry, besides bing a volunteer, there are other ways to leave prison."


    Ronald''s spirit shook. "What ways!"


    "Escape!" Ashe said mysteriously. "We have a big n now, the chance of sess for the prison break is very high, justcking some manpower. Are you interested?"


    Ronald was stunned for a moment, then sighed. "Let''s be real, don''t try to mess with me okay? I''m begging you, can''t we just let it be? How about this, I''ll buy you guys dinner, one contribution point each, and you let me off easy alright?"


    Ashe and Igor exchanged helpless nces. Igor sighed, "If all cult leaders outside were as silver-tongued as you, no wonder the Four Pirs have gone into hiding for so long."


    Igor looked to Ronald, "You know you can''t keep staying here right? You have to get out of Shattered Lake, you need to escape from Langna, even if it means bing a volunteer with nine chances dead for every one alive. Because if you keep staying by Langna''s side, the oue will be worse than death, more excruciating than death."


    Ronald''s eyes flickered. "I don''t know what you''re talking about. All I know is without Langna, I''d be a regr attraction at the Blood Moon Tribunal, getting hammered into meat paste by the executioner."


    "Certainly tempting." Igorughed. "As long as you agree to be intimate with him, he''d be willing to lose to you deliberately in deathmatches, letting you obtain lots of contribution points and temporarily escape the Tribunal. Especially after you lost five deathmatches in a row, Langna became your only lifeline."


    Like most condemned prisoners, Ronald''s means of earning contribution points were mostly illegal outside, leaving him almost no way to contribute value in prison. Naturally his sights turned to the Deathmatch Society - obtaining resources by plundering others, this had always been Ronald''s way of survival for over twenty years anyway.


    Unfortunately, there were too many plunderers and too few producers in prison.


    When Ronald joined the Deathmatch Society, he chose what looked like a weak old man to fight, but got beaten till every bone in his body cracked - ''Diamond'' Taig had seeded in snatching another 1 contribution point from a newbie.


    The results of the next 4 deathmatches were about the same. Ronald had gathered intel and pulled out all the stops, but those willing to fight him could practically crush him with one finger.


    After losing 15 contribution points, Ronald became the bottom feeder of the prison''s food chain. He no longer dared to ept deathmatch invites - his confidence had been shattered by the first five losses, he felt everyone here was stronger than him.


    If he could not find a way to earn contribution points, he would appear at every subsequent Blood Moon Tribunal until the day the citizens graciously allowed the Blood Moon Sovereign to take away this murderous Woodpecker desperate for redemption.


    That was when Langna appeared.


    He was willing to deliberately lose to Ronald in deathmatches, allowing Ronald to gain contribution points. What''s more, it was an ongoing agreement - Langna had ways to earn contribution points, as long as he was willing, both of them could maintain high contribution and livefortably in prison for years.


    He only had two requests. First, that Ronald be intimate with him. Although reluctant, Ronald did not oppose much either, having experienced plenty outside already. For the sake of survival, sacrificing his chastity a bit was eptable.


    As for his second request...


    "Langna needed you as ''raw material'' right?" Igor said. "He requested deathmatches with you, and naturally you had to ept in order to earn contribution points. Restrictions are removed in deathmatches, so he could do as he pleased with you...right before you were about to die, Langna would off himself to let you win..."


    "This was probably your deal flow right?"


    Ronald was silent for a moment, then nodded slightly. "As long as I don''t die, my body can recover. Although it shortens my lifespan in the long run, without contribution points I might not even make it past the next Tribunal."


    Igorughed. "Yes, if the ''deal terms'' were only this, then it would be quite a bargain. Even I would be tempted."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Surely you understand better than me right? After all I just pieced together Langna''s true motives from collecting intel on his previous ''friends''. But you were the sacrificial offering experiencing the ritual itself. You must have felt the real nature behind this deal already no? Otherwise you wouldn''t be so eager to be a volunteer and escape from Langna."


    Ronald''s pupils dted. "Ritual? What ritual?"


    The corners of Igor''s mouth curved up slightly - revealing the truth to victims like this was one of his favorite criminal activities. If possible, he''d love telling every fool he had scammed about his deceptive schemes.


    "Do you honestly think Langna made such demands out of mere whimsy? And you must feel it��Langna doesn��t treat you as an object, tool, or stranger. He truly loves you... with all his heart, without any reservation."


    Ronat''s face paled further, his hand trembling slightly as it clutched a steak.


    It might sound ludicrous. Langna had taken advantage of situations to threaten Ronat and force him toply. Each time they fought, Langna treated him like a piece of rib to be savored. From any angle, it looked like Langna simply regarded him as a ve, at his beck and call.


    If it were really that way, Ronat would feel somewhat relieved because that''s a dynamic he could understand.


    Yet, he felt that Langna��s feelings were genuine!


    Ronat wasn��t some lone assassin; he''d been in love before and knew what love felt like.


    That��s why he was so terrified��every look, every move from Langna, all revealed pure sincerity. Even when Langna ate, there was no hint of malice in his eyes! A profound lovebined with feasting; Langna seemed to achieve a perfect harmony between the two, as if they coexisted effortlessly.


    Ronat had always been afraid to think deeply about it, but now that Igor brought it to light, he was forced to confront this harrowing truth! He swallowed hard and asked hesitantly, "What... what kind of ceremony is this?"


    "To be honest, I don''t know. I only know the fate of the sacrificial offerings in the ceremony," Igor replied. "All of Langna''s previous ''close friends'' died in their own bedrooms, without exception."


    Ronald''s face turned pale, "How is that possible!? How could they have died in their dorm rooms?"


    Ashe also realized - unless in the deathmatch arena zones, chips prohibited condemned prisoners from self-harm and suicide! If a prisoner starved himself, the prison would notify the guards to force feed when his body reached a critical point! Therefore it was impossible for a condemned to die in his dorm room, unless from old age!


    But Langna was obviously not a twilight romance enthusiast.


    "It''s said there were no anomalies in their bodies, everything seemed normal, but all organs and tissues had ceased functioning." Igor speared a strawberry on the cake with his fork, "As if...their souls had suddenly vanished, so their bodies shut down immediately after."


    Ronald''s face turned as white as paper, his lips quivering uncontrobly.


    Igor stabbed in the final blow.


    "Now you must be disinterested in everything, except looking forward to Langna''s ritual right? Even if you have enough contribution points already, you''d still ept his deathmatch invites... Do you know why?"


    "Why?"


    "Because only in the ritual can your soul obtain a moment of wholeness - your iplete soul is already impatient to escape your body."

 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78


    In the design room, a bald muscr man was cutting fabrics, modifying patterns, making sample clothes. The whole room was filled with all kinds of fabrics, portraits, and clothing essories, but it was neat and tidy, with everything in its proper ce, giving off an aesthetically pleasing feel.


    "It''s approved! It''s approved!"


    A young female prisoner excitedly pushed open the door to the design room and said, "Master Langna, our submitted design has been approved. The featured collection for Kaishi this summer is the ''Fantasy Bubble'' series you designed! Congrattions!"


    "This is an honor for all of us," Langna smiled lightly. "Ate, with this sessful experience, you are now a qualified fashion designer."


    "It''s all thanks to Master Langna''s guidance," Ate bowed deeply. "If not for Master Langna teaching me wholeheartedly, how could I have progressed so quickly? This is your honor, Master. My contribution is negligible. I''m deeply grateful."


    "Alright, enough with the modesty. If you don''t mind, have dinner with us tonight," Langna''s mouth curved up as his eyes brimmed with joy. "Such good news, I ought to share it properly with Roni as well."


    "Can I order takeout?" Ate joked.


    "You can, but the total has to be within five contribution points," Langna winked. "Okay, back to work. Don''t getcent just because we got contribution points from Kaishi. You can never have enough contribution points. And you should try designing independently too. Maybe the next collection will be up to you to take charge..."


    "Alright, alright, I know, Master Langna you''re great at everything except being long-winded."


    Langna helplessly sighed and lowered his head to continue working.


    Looking at the piles of fabrics in front of her, Ate had no mind to work. Her attention soon drifted to Langna. The more she looked, the more attractive she found this focused, working man. The more she looked, the harder it was to hide her silly grin.


    Too bad he doesn''t like women.


    Ate sighed. The world is so cruel. When you finally find someone you like, not only do youpete with other women, but also with men?


    She had been in Shattered Lake Prison for over a year. Like most death row inmates, she had no livelihood skills beyond simple manualbor, and she didn''t have the fighting prowess on the deathmatch stage either - perhaps that was a good thing, at least she wouldn''t get beaten to the point of questioning life by those ferocious beasts pretending to be pigs for food.


    Ate naturally didn''t dare gamble on the citizens letting her live in the Blood Moon Tribunal because of her pretty looks - on the contrary, destroying beauty is often a hidden desire in people''s hearts.


    The perverts in this country aren''t limited to just the death row inmates locked up in prison.


    But trying to learn a contribution point-earning skill in prison was almost as difficult as encountering a whirlpool in the Sea of Knowledge.


    Repeating simple manualbor had no value. It had to be either an unique craft like the Beastmen''s maze toys, the Goblin''s bone carvings, or the Cannibal''s oil paintings - Ate only found out aftering to prison that the Cannibal''s paintings could sell for so much.


    Other than that, it had to beplex work requiring mental effort, such as writing, musicalposition, tax preparation - with the "harmlessness" of death row inmates, tax ountants from Shattered Lake Prison were especially weed by the rich. As long as they could survive the first Blood Moon Tribunal, most ountants, tax experts, and calctors among the death row inmates could live decently in prison.


    Of course Ate didn''t have the time to learn a skill, nor the brainpower forplex work. Just as she was about to give up and wait for death, wandering aimlessly around the prison, she identally walked into Langna''s design room.


    Fabrics were everywhere inside, and Ate could barely take her eyes off the sample clothes worn by the mannequins - the prison only provided in white uniforms, she hadn''t worn nice clothes for a long time.


    She stood in the design room for a long time until a low male voice suddenly sounded from behind her.


    "Do you like this outfit? Would you like to try it on?"


    Somehow she ended up bing Langna''s designer assistant and apprentice.


    Anyone who knew Langna would have a hard time associating his appearance with the profession of "fashion designer", but Langna was a highly valued exclusive designer for Kaishi, the blood moon fashion brand. Almost every design he made became Kaishi''s featured collection that season.


    The girls and women wearing stylish clothes would not know that the clothes they wore were designed by a bald death row inmate.


    Although the brand did push things along, the fact that Langna could lead fashion trends every season was proof enough of his exceptional talent. Even Ate, who had never been involved in fashion design before, grew step by step under Langna''s lead. Now, the joint design she did with Langna was even recognized by Kaishi!


    Ate was even starting to feel grateful for her imprisonment - if the first twenty years of her life were dim and chaotic, then Langna was the most brilliant rainbow she had encountered.


    Everything about Langna attracted her, his personality, talent, speech, everything.


    Even his bald head emanated the unique unfettered radiance of an artist.


    If she could spend her whole life with Langna, then it wouldn''t matter even if she stayed in prison. In fact,pared to the murky society outside, the small prison could better amodate a quiet design studio.


    Too bad he wasn''t interested, or rather, he didn''t have much interest in women.


    Whenever she thought about this, Ate felt sad and hopeless. She had even considered going to the medical center to get the doctors to give her aplete gender reassignment surgery. After all, in the Blood Moon Nation, gender was never an insurmountable obstacle.


    But it was really difficult to make this decision, plus Ate didn''t know if Langna would mind an unoriginal copy. Back then Langna was still single, so Ate wanted to straighten him out through prolongedpany. There''s a saying, ''even the bendiest man gets straight when erected'', Ate was quite confident in her looks and flirting skills.


    If not for the chip''s restriction on any violent acts, Ate might have screwed first and dealt with consequencester.


    Yet after a year, Langna''s partners had changed while Ate hadn''t even touched his bald head. She even had to eat dinner with the two of them, swallowing the stinky sourness of their romance.


    Thinking about this, Ate felt like the fabrics in front of her were that foul man Ronald, and she cut him to shreds fiercely with the scissors.


    Knock knock.


    The design room door was pushed open. Langna looked up, his eyes instantly curved into crescents as he revealed a faint smile. "Roni, how do you have time toe over here? What''s wrong, are you not feeling well? Want me to go with you to the medical center?"


    Pale-faced Ronald shook his head. "I''m fine, Langna. I came to find you today for something."


    "To be precise," a handsome man walked into the design room, "we came to discuss cooperation with you."


    Langna''s expression cooled slightly. "The ''Beauty Beast'' Igora... Roni, he''s dangerous,e over here by me. Igora, don''t think the prison can protect you. If you dare harm Roni, I have plenty of ways to make you wish you were dead."


    Another person walked into the design room, standing between Igora and Langna. "Don''t worry, Langna. No one will be harmed here."


    Langna was no longer smiling at all: "��Troublesome�� Ashe, I thought that even if we were not friends, we were definitely not enemies.


    Ashe smiled and said: "We are friends, in the past, now, and in the future as well."


    "Langna, we came here to discuss cooperation with you."


    Suddenly, Langna raised his hand: "Ate, please leave first."


    "Master��"


    "Leave!"


    Ate red fiercely at Ashe and the others, biting her lip angrily as she left the room.


    Ashe nced at the closed door and said: "You can probably guess why we are here. This is not some vulgar male conversation, so we do not mind an extra aplice."


    Although Igora didn''t announce his prison break ns with a loudspeaker, he had visited several prominent inmates in prison, so the news had already spread. With the connections of ''Gourmand'' Langna, he certainly knew Igora''s intentions, which was why he deliberately dismissed Ate.


    Langnapletely ignored Ash and stared quietly at Ronald. "Roni, is this your idea?"


    Ronald, who had been a bit timid, met those deep blue pupils and gritted his teeth with determination. "Langna, I want to join Igora''s team and escape from prison with them!"


    "Roni, we can live very well in prison. My contribution points are enough to ensure we''ll never be selected for the Blood Moon Tribunal - "


    "But I want to leave!" Ronald said loudly. "Langna, are youing with me, or staying here!?"


    Langna was silent for a long time, ncing at Ash and Igora.


    When Langna''s gaze swept over him, Ash broke out in goosebumps all over, filled with an instinctive fear as if facing a mortal enemy, even having the urge to flee!


    It was like...facing an executioner!


    "Roni, you know I can''t refuse a request from my beloved," Langna breathed out slowly and said calmly, "Beauty Beast, Evil One, as you wish, I, Langna Chiose, am willing to obey yourmands. But remember, if anything happens to Roni during this, you will have to keep himpany in the afterlife."


    "Tell me your n."


    "Since we haven''t gathered everyone yet, I can''t reveal too much for now," Igora said. "All I can tell you is that Ash has a way to remove the restrictions of the chip."


    Langna looked at Ash in surprise but didn''t say much. "Who else do you need to find? I can help."


    Igora shook his head. "No need. But first you have to tell us, what abilities will you have after the chip restrictions are removed? It might just happen to fill a gap in the team, then we won''t need to find new members."


    Langna was silent for a while, seemingly considering whether to reveal his background. Everyone waited patiently for his decision.


    Finally, he sighed. "Turn off all the lights except one."


    When only onemp remained lit in the corner of the design room, Langna walked into the shadows where the light could not reach, blendingpletely into the darkness.


    "I am a Moonshadow."


    Igora''s body jerked. "Impossible. Moonshadows and the Sacred Bloodline would never be allowed into the Blood Moon Tribunal. The research institute and church would not permit such disgrace to the two tribes'' honor - "


    "But I''m an exception. Unlike my brethren who need the moonlight''s illumination to transform into Moonshadows, I have to hide in the shadows to transform. Under the moonlight I actually cannot transform. The church has no need to worry I would do anything to disgrace the tribes."


    "Besides, unlike my brethren who resonate with the blood moon and descend into madness, I have never heard the blood moon''s call. After transforming into a Moonshadow, I only be more cruel, more rebellious, and more... ruthless."


    With the lithe and agile steps of a predator, a wolfman nearly two meters tall and covered in grey fur walked into the light.


    Its deep blue pupils made all three people feel as if they had fallen into an ice cave.


    "I am a traitor to the church, a disgrace to the Moonshadows, a beast even the blood moon spits on. I am neither a pure Moonshadow nor a devout human. Every strand of fur is filled with disloyalty to the blood moon."


    "They call me... a werewolf."

 Chapter 79: A Wild Sorcerer Appears

    Chapter 79: A Wild Sorcerer Appears


    In the virtual world, the sea of knowledge.


    ��Werewolves who can��t transform when exposed to moonlight�� your prison really has a diverse poption, no wonder it��s a multi-racial nation.��


    Sonyay at the bow of the small boat, gazing up at the hazy sky. ��But what exactly was the gourmand��s ritual? I��ve never heard of such a brutal and bizarre ceremony. Could he have been trying to summon a gluttony-aligned arcane spirit?��


    In theory, the easiest arcane traditions for a sorcerer to master aren��t the external ones like fire, earth, and sword magics that are readily essible. After all, external traditions still require deliberate training from the sorcerer to gain experience.


    Internal traditions, on the other hand, can level up even without the sorcerer intentionally training them.


    What are internal traditions? They��re the physiological activities that every sorcerer has to do every day.


    Eating, sleeping, listening, watching, excreting�� These unavoidable physiological activities since childhood could be converted into arcane tradition experience. If so, nearly every sorcerer would have seven or eight mastered arcane traditions.


    Unfortunately, that��s only theoretical.


    The seemingly simplest and most effortless internal traditions actually have much higher barriers to entry than external ones. However difficult external traditions may be, there��s always a possibility of getting started as long as one puts in the effort. But with internal traditions, racial talents are nearly always required. If you aren��t randomly born with an internal talent, you��ll likely never independently master an internal tradition in your lifetime.


    What Sonya referred to as the ��gluttony tradition�� was one such internal tradition, usually only found among cannibalistic races. And not all cannibals can learn it either, only a small portion of cannibal sorcerers suddenly gain insight into the gluttony tradition.


    Internal traditions can��t be taught. What is there to teach about eating, defecating, and sleeping?


    Moreover, internal traditions have deep connections to inner desires, emotional changes, and personality quirks. This knowledge can��t be imparted through words alone. It��s something that can only beprehended, not exined.


    Sonya��s guess wasn��t unreasonable. After all, eating and the gluttony tradition are nearly one and the same. Many believe that cannibals possess the gluttony talent precisely because they eat human flesh.


    ��Igor has a different take,�� said Ashe, biting his fingernails. ��He thinks that in this ritual, eating is just the tiniest part. The true core steps aren��t about eating, but about love.��


    ��Love?��


    ��Have you ever farmed before?��


    If it were anyone else, Sonya would definitely feel doubly insulted.


    Firstly, suspecting that a young and pretty girl sorcerer like her had farmed before was insulting.


    Secondly, doubting that a country bumpkin from an agricultural town had never farmed was even more insulting!


    ����.Go on, I understand what you mean.��


    ��Igor thinks Langna was farming,�� Ashe said, lying at the stern. ��He nted seeds of love in the targets�� hearts. Through the bloodiest intimacy �� eating them �� he quickly nurtured those seeds to take root and grow, equivalent to fertilizing and cultivating them.��


    ��Though Renard refuses to admit it, he has gradually lost interest in everything else. The only thing that still ignites his desires is participating in Langna��s rituals. Even if Langna suddenly changed his recipes, Renard would likely voluntarily add his own name.��


    Just listening to this made Sonya feel muddled. ��So after the seeds of love have sprouted and matured, what will Langna harvest? Their souls?��


    ��Igor couldn��t guess either. It��s probably rted to the soul, but not just the soul.�� Ashe said, ��But that��s their business �� we just need to be sure of one thing: Langna and Renard have an inseparable bond, and that��s what we can utilize.��


    ��So as long as you��ve persuaded Renard, it��s akin to gaining Langna as an ally.�� Sonya reminded, ��But aren��t they both vicious death row convicts? Is this really okay?��


    Unlike Igor the fraudster with hardly anybat ability, Renard was the Woodpecker Gang��s golden mouth, skilled in traps, firearms, concealed weapons and more murderous techniques. Langna was even more terrifying as a Moonshadow werewolf, considered a high-tier threat even among two-wing sorcerers.


    Compared to them, Ashe and Igor were like two littlembs that only knew how to bleat.


    Once they lost the prison��s protection, it was hard to imagine a good oue for Ashe and Igor when facing these two utterly wicked death row inmates.


    ��The prison isn��t a talent market. I don��t have many choices,�� Ashe said helplessly. ��Just finding two capable and willing escapees is lucky enough. Can��t be picky about their characters either, just have to hope Shattered Lake Prison��s rehabilitation of convicts is very sessful.��


    Ironically, Ashe hoped the rehabilitation wasn��t too sessful, so he could find prison mates daring enough to escape with him. Yet he also hoped the rehabilitation was extremely sessful, molding those daredevil escapees into model citizens who��d only escape to contribute to society.


    ��But I don��t really need to worry. When ites to safety, Igor is far more concerned than me. He��s already nted suggestions in Renard, intensifying his sense of danger���� Ashe said, ��Not exactly deceit, just making Renard clearly realize �� as long as he doesn��t kill Langna, his craving to be devoured by Langna will never disappear.��


    Sonya kicked Ashe��s legs back down. ��Then wouldn��t they just kill each other after breaking out?��


    ��Kill each other? I bet not just that. If possible, Igor would definitely have them attract and upy the Heresy Court��s attention before slipping away himself.�� Ashe smiled wryly. ��And he��s still holding one of my promises. I haven��t even decided how to handle that yet.��


    The promise couldn��t be too outrageous. It had to be something the other party could aplish without triggering innate resistance, likemanding them to mit suicide��. That kind of request went against innate drives and was unreasonable.


    Therefore, Ashe could only have Igor ��help�� him escape, not ��make�� him escape. Thetter strictmand would be invalid.


    But even so, Igor could still make things difficult for Ashe. For instance, during their escape, if Igor ordered Ashe to ��cover our rear��, Ashe would be unable to refuse this reasonable demand.


    Even if hundreds of Blood Mad Hunters charged at them, Ashe would still have to pause to surround them, demonstrating the action of ��covering the rear�� before continuing to flee.


    ��What do you n to do? Did you make any ns for after the escape?��


    ��I roughly have some. First find this body��s nemesis, an elf professor named Sylin. See if I can get revenge. If not, at least steal some of his money, then find a way to survive.��


    ��Isn��t that just ying it by ear? Aren��t you afraid the outside is even more dangerous than prison, where at least you��re safe daily?��


    ��It��s adopting a progressive approach in the adventure domain to achievesting gains, using abstraction, transmission and attribution analysis as handles to empower life, improving the logical considerations for escape�� ��


    ��Say something a child can understand.��


    ��I chose this path, so even if it gets hard I��ll willingly walk it. Regret is for my future self to worry about. My present self just needs to consider how to avoid future regret.�� Ashe leisurely said, ��You don��t want to see me crying my eyes out everyday in prison, right?��


    ��Show me. I love watching others bawl until snot drips from their faces.��


    ��And there��s still you.�� Ashe sat up.


    ��How can I help you?�� Sonya rolled her eyes.


    Ashe said, ��Through our bond, the stronger you are, the stronger I be. So if you don��t want to explore the virtual world alone in the future, be more proactive in training. Don��t always leave on time. Don��t lead such afortable life at your age. Have the courage to step out of yourfort zone!��


    ��When you put it that way, I suddenly feel very tempted to ck off. Yes, no training, just ying around.�� Sonya mutteredzily and stretched. ��Did you recover your arcane energy?��


    ��Mostly recovered.��


    Earlier, they had encountered an adolescent froth dragon and nearly exhausted their arcane power before barely driving it away. So they had to rest in the boat. Times like these were often when they shared about their daily lives.


    To be honest, these rest times were quite frequent. Ever since condensing over half the Silver Wings, the difficulty of both Legacy Isle and knowledge creatures had risen sharply. The mostmon situation was knowledge creatures depleting their arcane power before fleeing.


    Ashe suspected the knowledge creatures were intentionally draining them.


    But the Swordswoman said this was normal. They couldn��t instantly obliterate knowledge creatures,cked control abilities like stuns, and didn��t have a speed advantage either. So it was hard to pin down knowledge creatures.


    This was also the plight most silver-level sorcerers faced �� they often only excelled in one area. In the real world, they could still cooperate in teams, but in the virtual world, having a major shoring in one aspect led to severe tactical ws.


    This situation often didn��t improve until sorcerers reached the two-wing gold or even three-wing Saint domain, when they could finally polish their arcane systems. But by then, they would face new challenges in the virtual world.


    Ashe opened the virtual world map, though there wasn��t much to see. The 24 surrounding grid areas were all ��Don��t Waste Your Effort�� no-reward zones. In these cases, they could only randomly pick a direction to try their luck��


    ��Ah!?��


    Sonya was puzzled. ��What��s wro����


    Ashe instantly covered Sonya��s mouth with his hand, holding one finger to his lips.


    Sonya blinked nkly before quickly realizing. She lowered her voice and asked, ��There��s a sorcerer nearby?��


    Ashe nodded, turning to look at the mist-shrouded sea.


    On the virtual world map, another yellow marker identical to Ashe and Sonya��s had suddenly popped up in the neighboring area!


    In the mist 10 meters from their boat, space opened up a tiny Gate of Truth. A figure fell out from inside.


    Right before hitting the water, she burst out in smoke, transforming into a tiny bat frantically pping its wings forward.

 Chapter 80: Sylphine

    Chapter 80: Sylphine


    A small bat was leisurely flying above the sea shrouded in white mist.


    There were two drops of congealed, colorless liquid on the bat��s back, continuously absorbing knowledge and converting it into arcane energy from the white mist.


    ��The absorption rate is still too slow���� Sylphine sighed to herself, still very dissatisfied with the speed of her arcane energy growth.


    2 drops of colorless Source Blood = 6 drops of rainbow Source Blood = 18 drops of golden Source Blood = 54 drops of silver Source Blood in synthesis. In the Sea of Knowledge, it had an arcane energy absorption rate 560% of an ordinary sorcerer.


    It seemed quite impressive, a full 5.5 times the arcane energy growth rate of an ordinary sorcerer, thoroughly demonstrating the power of the Sacred Bloodline.


    However, the advantage of the Sacred Bloodline was only in the Sea of Knowledge. Upon promotion to Two-Winged Gold, entering the Time Lands, the silver Source Blood would lose its effect and only the golden Source Blood could absorb arcane energy.


    With Sylphine��s current 2 drops of colorless Source Blood, it could only be divided into 18 drops of golden Source Blood. Her absorption rate would decrease to 200%, merely twice that of an ordinary sorcerer.


    If she advanced to Three-Winged Saint, it would change to only the 6 drops of rainbow Source Blood being able to absorb arcane energy. Her absorption rate would further decrease to 80%, already inferior to sorcerers of the same level!


    By the time she reached Four-Winged Legend, Sylphine would have to rely solely on 2 drops of colorless Source Blood. Her absorption efficiency would be a pathetic 40%, not even half that of a Four-Winged sorcerer!


    Therefore, despite their immortality, the Sacred Bloodline was actually the race most pressed for time. They had to quickly cross the Sea of Knowledge and Time Lands, spreading their gold and silver wings while young, and entering the Three-Winged Saint realm. Only the Sacred Bloodline who stepped into the Three-Winged Saint realm could obtain the Blood Moon Sovereign��s blessings and undergo the Bloodline Purification ritual.


    Theter the Bloodline Purification ritual was carried out, the less ideal the results, unable to refine higher tier Source Blood and renew their vitality.


    In the research institute, Sylphine had seen many aged Sacred Bloodline sorcerers. They often remained in the Three-Winged Saint realm or Two-Winged Gold for a lifetime. Even with their long lifespans, due to their extremely poor arcane energy absorption rates, by the time their souls extinguished, they were still unable to condenseplete rainbow wings and golden wings.


    Therefore, the disparities within the Sacred Bloodline were extremely severe. Some managed to spread their silver wings in just a few years, yet remained silver-level sorcerers for life. Others took a hundred years just to enter the Three-Winged Saint realm, but were unable to fully spread even their rainbow wings in the next four hundred years.


    Although the Sacred Bloodline broke free of time��s shackles, they would eventually still meet eternal silence.


    ��Hmm?��


    The little bat hovered in mid-air, emitting inaudible ultrasonic waves to ordinary humans, probing the detailed terrain nearby.


    Miracle �C Blood Bat Form, it was one of the racial traits of the Sacred Bloodline. Almost every member could easily grasp this miracle to transform into a flying bat in the virtual world. This way, they did not have to swimboriously in the Sea of Knowledge like other sorcerers. If danger arose, they could also flee swiftly, greatly improving their exploration efficiency and survival rate.


    Ultrasonic detection was an advanced miracle in Blood Bat Form with a continuous effect, allowing Sacred Bloodline sorcerers to roughly detect the terrain around them.


    Although the detection range was short due to the high interference of the white mist, it was still better than nothing.


    Just now, the ultrasonic detection picked up some anomaly on the right that did not seem to simply be the sea��s surface, there was an object signal. But when she stopped to probe further, the feedback changed and the object disappeared.


    Could it be a knowledge creature?


    Sylphine held no fear towards knowledge creatures, on the contrary, she felt excited. She had just learned a new miracle and was looking for a victim to test its might.


    However, the location where the object signal originated was just a t sea surface, with nothing around.


    She felt puzzled, but there were far too many mysteries in the virtual world. If she had to get to the bottom of every anomaly, the few hundred years would not be enough for her to research just one Sea of Knowledge.


    ��Oh well, I was hoping to encounter a knowledge creature, I have some spirit familiars I want to exchange����


    Just as Sylphine was about to leave, she clearly heard a ��plop�� sound from up ahead on the right.


    The little bat froze in mid-air, momentarily stunned.


    This was the first time she had heard such a strange sound in the Sea of Knowledge. It sounded just like��someone throwing rocks into the sea?


    Could it be another sorcerer?


    Sylphine hesitated for a bit, but still flew in the direction of the sound �C she was confident in herself, even if she could not beat another sorcerer, she could at least escape.


    Moreover, this was the first time she had encountered another sorcerer in the virtual world. Just to satisfy her curiosity, it was worth the risk of death to venture into dangerous territory.


    Who was the other person?


    One of the Blood Moon Kingdom��s sorcerers?


    How old were they, which magic disciplines were they proficient in?


    If it was a sorcerer from another kingdom, could wemunicate?


    With apprehension and anticipation, Sylphine quickly pped her wings and flew over. The white mist parted to reveal a small ind before her �C


    It was an adolescent Ivory Thunder Dragon. Its entire body was covered in pearlescent skin, eyeless, with a neck and head containing only a single mouth.


    Ivory Thunder Dragons often contained many rare lightning-based spirit familiars, making them quite valuable knowledge creatures in the Sea of Knowledge. Even if Sylphine had no use for them, she could trade them to the research institute for arge amount of research points.


    In the past, Sylphine would have been happy to encounter such a decent prey. But now, she felt somewhat disappointed �C she really wanted to try chatting with someone else in the virtual world! Even just trash talking would be great!


    If the other party was a nice sorcerer, they might even temporarily party up and explore the virtual world together!


    But her encounter was just an ugly Ivory Thunder Dragon��


    Noticing the little bat, the Ivory Thunder Dragon let out a shrill roar. The intense sound waves were enough to temporarily deafen sorcerers.


    But Sylphine simply reverted back to her humanoid form during that instant, bing one with the virtual world for 0.1 seconds during the form transformation. Naturally, she avoided the dragon��s roar.


    As she transformed, blood mist burst forth violently around the Ivory Thunder Dragon. When Sylphinended, the dragon��s pearlescent skin erupted with wisps of blue electricity as it charged at her with a bellow!


    Such reckless brute force attacks were the hardest to deal with. Firstly, the small ind limited the sorcerer��s evasion space. Secondly, the intense electric current around the dragon��s body could heavily injure or even briefly stun the sorcerer if they barely grazed it.


    Yet Sylphine did not dodge or evade. Facing the pouncing dragon, she stretched out her palm and softly eximed, ��Miracle �C Blood Brambles!��


    The blood mist abruptly condensed into thorny vines that tightly coiled around the Ivory Thunder Dragon��s body. As it continued its charge, countlesscerations were ripped into its pearlescent skin by the blood brambles, practically skinning it alive!


    Some days ago, Sylphine still found it somewhat difficult to unleash ��Blood Brambles��, but after practicing with surgical spells like Eyelid Incision, Orthodontic Molding, and Nasal Sculpting these days, her proficiency with this miracle had increased tremendously, allowing her to use it inbat now!


    Suffering such a brutal attack, the Ivory Thunder Dragon��s charge naturally came to an abrupt halt. It violently pped its wings, the flickering electricity tearing apart the blood brambles. It took to the skies to escape the range of the blood mist.


    Knowledge creatures�� learning capability was no inferior to sorcerers��. The Ivory Thunder Dragon had realized the blood mist was extremely dangerous, so it wanted to swoop down from the sky to strike at this detestable invading sorcerer!


    Sylphine remainedposed. Tracing intricate gestures with her hands, she muttered, ��My first time using this in actualbat, hope nothing goes wrong����


    Sizzle!


    The Ivory Thunder Dragon suddenly spiraled down in a fierce dive,pletely enveloped in a thickyer of electric sma, resembling a terrifying electric sma ball!


    Even sorcerers proficient in defensive abilities like the Masochist disciplines would surely have their souls instantly damaged and ejected from the virtual world if struck head-on by that!


    Yet Sylphine pped her hands together, a bizarre radiance shing in her bloody pupils as she eximed, ��Miracle �C Blood Retrograde!��


    Hiss!


    Apanied by a wretched shriek, the Ivory Thunder Dragon��s body lost control. Like a severed kite, it was flung away, writhing in agony on the ground. Within its body, blood vessels continuously ruptured as its muscles convulsed. The reversed blood flow even burst through its skin like blooming blood flowers!


    When the Ivory Thunder Dragon was pierced by the blood brambles earlier, Sylphine��s ��blood seeds�� had already been nted within it.


    With the blood seeds�� assistance in locking onto the target, Sylphine could freely manipte the blood within the target using her Hemomancy spirit familiars, hastening blood loss and reversing blood flow weremon miracles. High-level Hemomancers could even freeze or boil the blood of their targets!


    Among the Blood Moon Kingdom��s sorcerers circted this adage �C ��When fighting a Hemomancer, the moment you shed your first drop of blood, you��ll know it��s time tomit suicide.��


    ��Waaa!��


    The Ivory Thunder Dragon suddenly let out a shriek resembling a human infant��s. Violent arcs of electricity erupted from its body once more as it swung its tail and flung 3 spirit familiars in the opposite direction!


    When Sylphine went to collect the 3 spirit familiars, the Ivory Thunder Dragon immediately smashed into the white mist, its traces and sounds quickly obscured by theyers of mist as it fled to parts unknown.


    Sylphine was not surprised at all by this. Battered as the Ivory Thunder Dragon looked, if it went all out, Sylphine��s Hemomancy miracles could not stop it at all.


    This was also where the cunning of knowledge creaturesy �C even when hunting, they would conserve some strength, misleading enemies into underestimating them. The moment they realized the odds were against them, they would toss out bait and decisively flee, never fighting enemies to the death.


    Coupled with the concealment of the white mist, unless they had the time, terrain, or attribute advantage, one-winged sorcerers basically could not y knowledge creatures alone. After exploring the virtual world for over half a year, Sylphine had not killed a single knowledge creature, a true reflection of most sorcerers�� experiences.


    As Sylphine kept the 3 spirit familiars, her ears twitched. She seemed to vaguely hear the Ivory Thunder Dragon��s agonized cries from afar.


    But with the heavy obstruction of the white mist, Sylphine found it hard to confirm her own judgment. Listening carefully again, she seemed to hear nothing.


    But as aforementioned, there were far too many bizarre urrences in the virtual world. She need not waste time pondering over such matters. Time was the most precious resource to the Sacred Bloodline. She had to treasure every second exploring the virtual world.


    Sylphine activated her miracle again, transforming back into a bat. Just as she was about to pick a direction to continue forward, she suddenly heard another ��plop�� from up ahead on the right.


    The little bat hovered in midair, bewildered.


    Again?

 Chapter 81: So It’s You Who Brought the Sacred Bloodline Here

    Chapter 81: So It��s You Who Brought the Sacred Bloodline Here


    Watching the battered Swordfish Dragon hastily flee into the white fog, Sylphine fell into deep thought.


    This was already the fourth knowledge creature she had encountered tonight.


    Generally speaking, Sylphine would only experience one special event per night during her virtual world explorations, and most of the time she would just be strolling around leisurely �C because the Sea of Knowledge was so vast and the fog so dense that it was difficult to encounter others without a life-and-death connection in the great sea.


    However, she had met four knowledge creatures in a row tonight, which made Sylphine suspect that today might be the mating season for knowledge creatures, so they had gathered around to go into heat��


    But Sylphine knew why she could continuously triggerbat events.


    She turned into a little bat again and waited in ce for a moment. Sure enough, she heard the familiar ��plop�� sound again!


    There it was again!


    Hearing this sound for the fifth consecutive time, Sylphine could no longer deceive herself that it was a hallucination.


    She could even foresee that if she flew in the direction the sound came from, she would definitely encounter another knowledge creature! Just like the previous four times!


    What was going on here!


    The books ��A Hundred Years in the Virtual World and Ten Years at Sea��, ��Poor Sorcerer, Rich Sorcerer��, and ��Sailing Ten Thousand Miles�� did not mention this kind of situation at all!


    The most simr situation was the legendary ��Mermaid��s Call��: it was said that there was a knowledge creature called the Lantern Dragon in the Sea of Knowledge. Its body was extremely ugly, but its tentacles were beautiful mermaids with enchanting voices, sweet voices, and sexy figures. When sorcerers couldn��t resist the temptation and approached the mermaids, thentern dragon hiding in the sea would suddenly appear and swallow the sorcerers whole.


    However, Sylphine saw no mermaids or any traps. It was as if the ��plop�� sound simply guided her to the nearest habitat of knowledge creatures.


    She also considered whether other sorcerers were pranking her, but upon careful reflection, that was impossible �C her ultrasonic detection at the tinum level was already considered top-notch reconnaissance among miracles, yet she could only probe the terrain within three meters around her. Any further and the ultrasound would be blocked by the white fog.


    The stretch of sea she had flown over before ambushing the Swordfish Dragon was nearly a hundred meters away!


    Even with the miracles of the prophecy or fate systems, it would be impossible to prate dozens of meters of white fog. If it could be done, it would definitely not be within the ability range of a tinum sorcerer.


    However, sorcerers were on a one-way path once they advanced to the two-winged gold or three-winged saint stages. The door of truth they opened could no longer lead to the Sea of Knowledge. There could only be single-wing tinum sorcerers in the Sea of Knowledge.


    Moreover, she could not think of any reason why someone would guide her �C if the other party could really see through hundreds of meters of white fog, their abilities would definitely be enough to overwhelm Sylphine. Wouldn��t it be better to just tie up Sylphine and have their way with her?


    This was the virtual world. As long as the other party concealed their identity, even the Sacred Bloodline would not be able to find the culprit for revenge.


    So Sylphine felt even more strongly that she had triggered some mechanism in the virtual world, which caused the virtual world to actively guide her to find the nearest knowledge creature, just like a whirlpool.


    There were many iprehensible mysterious mechanisms in the virtual world, some of which appeared randomly, while others were identally triggered by sorcerers.


    For example, the ��Great Path�� in the Sea of Knowledge. Although the research institute still had not found a viable trigger method, by consolidating various data, it was discovered that earth-type sorcerers had the greatest chance of encountering the ��Great Path.�� It was highly likely that the actions of earth mages caused changes in the virtual world, bringing the Great Path into manifestation.


    Sylphine had read a misceneous book called ��Chronicles of the Illusory World��, which recorded many such unverifiable virtual world mechanisms: for example, throwing a single-wing spirit into the sea would make a masked sorcerer emerge from the sea holding a two-wing spirit and a three-wing spirit, asking which spirit you had just thrown in. If you honestly answered neither, you would get a reward�� Most of the stories inside were this kind of nearly absurd, effortless, and bizarrely triggered fantasy.


    Although it was almost impossible to reproduce such mechanisms, Sylphine still tried her best to remember what exactly she had done to trigger this mechanism.


    Could it be that sentence she said earlier, ��I hope to meet knowledge creatures��, was overheard by the virtual world?


    ��I want to meet Serendipity Isle�� I want to meet a whirlpool�� I want to meet golden fish�� I want to eat trufflelafu�� I want to condense seven or eight more drops of colorless source blood���� Sylphine kept murmuring as she flew, hoping the virtual world would hear her wishes again.


    But the virtual world did not seem to have heard her prayers. Instead, she heard the Swordfish Dragon��s faint screams again, as if it was being brutally beaten somewhere nearby after escaping.


    This was not the first time. The few knowledge creatures that Sylphine had defeated earlier also let out piteous wails in the distance after getting away.


    Could the new miracle she had learned, ��Blood Flow Reversal��, really be that powerful, making knowledge creatures wail all night even after escaping, unable to heal?


    If Sylphine flew ten meters to the right, she would see the escaped Swordfish Dragon being brutally beaten by a certain dog couple with a mixedbo attack. It looked at the two in front of it with an expression of ��So it��s you who brought the Sacred Bloodline here!�� Then, letting out a cry of unwillingness andment like ��The tiger falls in Pingyang at the mercy of dogs��, it burst out a bunch of loot.


    After licking the bag clean, the little boat quietly followed along Sylphine��s flight path.


    Blood Moon Kingdom, Shattered Lake Prison.


    Sylphine woke up from her bed and couldn��t help but stretch outzily, her whole body��s bones making crisp sounds �C due to the slow blood flow, the bodies of the Sacred Bloodline tended to be stiff.


    If they wanted to explore the virtual world for a long time, the Sacred Bloodline would have to lie in coffins, reducing air exposure to lower oxidation rates. Otherwise, they would wake up with their whole bodies rigid.


    Sylphine first took a warm bath, then brushed her teeth and washed her face. During this process, she had to keep all water sources still. One of the taboos of the Sacred Bloodline was that they could not touch flowing water. Although touching it would not hurt them, the sensation of flowing water to the Sacred Bloodline was like the steak you were eating suddenly started squirming, repulsive and frightening.


    There were enough taboos for the Sacred Bloodline to fill a book as thick as a palm. Compared to that, the most well-known ��fear of sunlight�� was just one of the most trivial ones.


    Although there were many restrictions, people seeking to join the research institute and be one of the Bloodline were still neverending. This was not only because the Sacred Bloodline had powerful innate talents, but also because they were the favored children of the Blood Moon Sovereign, one of the only two ruling races of the Blood Moon Kingdom!


    ��Reportingst night��s adventures to the research institute would probably earn a lot of research points�� But then I��d have to talk with Teacher again, and he��d definitely ask all sorts of nagging questions, super annoying����


    Sylphine put on a loose ck robe and crow mask while randomly thinking, and went to the exclusive dining room for medical staff.


    ��Good morning, Your Excellency.��


    Seeing the passing medical staff bowing to her again, Sylphine hurriedly stopped him and said, ��I��ve said that when it��s just us, treat me like any other medical staff, just say hello, this isn��t outside.��


    ��But����


    ��You guys doing this, if word got to the research institute, Teacher would definitely scold me. Your badge number is [137] right? I��ll remember that. If I get scolded by Teacher, I��ll remember to bother you for it.��


    [137] panicked at this, and bowed in fright: ��I��m so sorry, Your Excellency, I just-��


    ��Hmm? Still using honorifics?��


    ����Good morning, [222].��

 Chapter 82: Drawing Cards!

    Chapter 82: Drawing Cards!


    Looking at the 9 spirits before him, Ashe had to do some broadcast calisthenics to calm his excited mood.


    Last night��s virtual world exploration, they had harvested a full 12 spirits!


    Among them, 3 that were said to be able to sell for a good price were taken away by the Swordswoman, but even so, Ashe��s harvest this night could almost top the total harvest of the past few days!


    Not to mention they also got 2 experience orbs!


    Ashe felt that unless he drew out new virtual world exploration artifacts again, it would be very difficult to replicatest night��s results before White Wings was fully deployed.


    Andst night��s experience also deeply proved the life lesson he had summed up while at work: working is not as good as cking off, cking off is not as good as exploitation, exploitation is not as good as reaping the rewards��


    When they discovered a wild mage nearby in the virtual world map, Ashe and hispanions�� first reaction was to flee �C not because their conscience was not yet lost and they were unwilling to rob an unfamiliar mage they had never met before, but because they were afraid neither of them was even a match for one of the opponent��s hands!


    That��s right, Ashe was very sure that the two of them together could not beat the other person alone!


    They had a good measure of their own strength: whether it was the Swordswoman or himself, they had reached their current strength through forcing growth, miracles seldom happened, and they barely had anybat systems.


    The Swordswoman was still a little better, after all, her talent was evident, and she only needed to spend some time to catch up. Ashe was simply a thigh hanger, besides normal attacks he could only summon doppelgangers to send out, it would not be an exaggeration to describe him as ��the weakest of thebat mages of the same rank��.


    Bullying the mage projections of Legacy Isle a little, beating up some knowledge creatures a bit, was already their limit, and it even felt a little beyond their capabilities �C especially after condensing more than half of White Wings, the intensity of the battles they encountered rose by a level, almost exhausting their arcane energy every time, barely able to defeat their enemies with great difficulty.


    Mages like Ashe and hispanion were undoubtedly anomalies in the Sea of Knowledge. After all, they had only been mages for seven days. Among normal mages, they belonged to the stage where they hadn��t even left the starting vige yet, still at the novice phase of getting familiar with the game mechanics!


    Whereas the mage who could appear nearby them must have condensed more than half of White Wings, spent over a month, or even half a year, a year was also likely exploring the virtual world!


    The advantage of time was enough to create a huge gap at this point. To use a game analogy, Ashe and hispanion were like yers who had leveled up by cheating, but didn��t do any of the ss missions, main missions, side missions, and didn��t even know how tobo their attacks.


    And because their level had increased, the Gate of Truth would only transport them to higher level monster areas!


    Fortunately, the two of them were bound as a team, if it was another solo mage who experienced their situation, they would have long been killed and forced to transmigrate by the high level knowledge creatures of the area.


    A normal sorcerer would certainly only be able to slowly umte Silver Wings step-by-step. Whether it was sect level,bat system, mastery of miracles, or other aspects, they would far surpass Ashe and Gerard��s hacked abilities. Not to mention the high probability that the opponent had experience fighting sorcerers �C they��d likely discover right after exchanging blows that Ashe was a soft persimmon that could be easily handled.


    Although Ashe could also gamble that the opponent was not a battle sorcerer, there was no need to take the risk �C his real body was still imprisoned and at risk, if he or the Swordswoman died, even if Ashe wailed ��I don��t want to y anymore, give me back my life!��, it would be useless. He could only obediently await the blood moon tribunal��s punishment for the gambling addict.


    Therefore, when Ashe saw the other party seem to be approaching, he immediately maneuvered the small boat to evade. But because of the fog blocking their view, the other party couldn��t discover the small boat at a certain distance away at all. At this time, the Swordswoman suddenly bit his ear and suggested a rather thrilling bad idea.


    ��Wow, you��re so nasty, but I like it.��


    ��Tsk, you��re one to talk like you��re such a good thing yourself.��


    So the two of them sneaked around to the front of the unfamiliar mage, and in the virtual world map they found a ��bit troublesome�� area, threw small rocks to lure the mage there.


    Based on their encounters over the past few days, the ��bit troublesome�� areas were mostly habitats of knowledge creatures, and basically those still growing, withrger bodies and tremendousbat power, who would make good use of spirits. Even if mages could defeat them, they definitely couldn��t subdue the knowledge creatures.


    Sure enough, Ashe saw in the virtual world map that after a period ofbat, the ��bit troublesome�� yellow area where the unfamiliar mage was gradually turned into a ��go pick up the spoils�� green area, and the green area kept moving, apparently the knowledge creature escaping.


    And Ashe��s small boat was waiting right in the path where the knowledge creature escaped!


    Judging which direction the knowledge creature would escape was actually very simple: unlike blind mages, knowledge creatures surely grasped the situation around their habitat, so they could escape to safe areas every time, rather than colliding into other knowledge creatures�� habitats topete for territory.


    Ashe only needed to observe all around, exclude the routes leading to ��worth a visit��, ��bit troublesome�� and such areas, the remaining would be the escape route the knowledge creature had a high probability of choosing. Even if there was some inuracy, Ashe could keep an eye on the virtual world map and correct it in time, almost always able to let the young knowledge creature know what was meant by ��disasters nevere singly��, ��escaping is shameful and useless��.


    Relying on this method, Ashe led the unfamiliar mage to the knowledge creature��s habitat, theny in ambush nearby. When the knowledge creature suffered a crushing defeat and fled desperately, he would go over to pick up the spoils, reaping the fisherman��s profits.


    Not only were the gains from doing this abundant, the safety was high. Knowledge creatures had greatly reducedbat power when fleeing, and were easily bewildered when ambushed, like when you��re being chased by a ghost and suddenly step on a banana peel, anyone would be stupefied.


    When the unfamiliar mage��s soul energy was depleted too much and he couldn��t keep going, needing to log off, Ashe and hispanion still felt a tinge of regret. The two of them had in a total of five knowledge creatures, harvesting 12 spirits and 2 experience orbs.


    Especially those 2 experience orbs, in the Swordswoman��s words, were ��what we earned in one night took an ordinary mage half a year��.


    More importantly, among the 9 spirits that Ashe got, one was precisely the third type of spirit required for the sh Me miracle!


    It looked like a constantly spinning water ball, with a little water wing, held trembling in the hand, appearing extremely cute.


    ��Circte��


    ��Single-Wing Spirit��


    ��Restriction: The targets affected must have a water source in their bodies.��


    ��Basic Effect: Transfer all effects (instant damage, persistent effects) received by the first target to the second target, the transfer speed varies ording to factors like the distance between the two targets.��


    ��Passive Effect: When the mage��s body contains liquid, it can reduce physical impacts suffered.��


    ����Water flows to low ces.''��


    Having gathered the doppelganger, sword heart, and cirction spirits, Ashe already possessed all the prerequisites to cast the ��sh Me�� miracle!


    Next he just needed to hurry up and grasp the spirits, reaching the point where he could induce virtual world resonance even with his arcane energy restricted in prison, then he could try casting the miracle in a state where spells were prohibited!


    Putting away the cirction spirit, Ashe opened Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook and chose to charge all the remaining 8 spirits!


    1 spirit was worth 8 points, so 8 spirits were 64 points. Adding the previous 40 points, Ashe now had a whopping 104 points, enough to purchase a ��bunch of source crystals��!


    Purchase sessful!


    Obtained 20 source crystals!


    Then triggered the first recharge bonus, obtaining another 40 source crystals!


    Plus the 4 source crystals from checking in these three days, totaling 44 source crystals, allowing 14 divinations!


    It��s my turn, time to draw cards!

 Chapter 83: Death Maniac Swordswoman’s Growth Report

    Chapter 83: Death Maniac Swordswoman��s Growth Report


    ��If hurt enough, then sh open with a single stroke����


    Igor woke up with a yawn and went to take a bath as usual. He had just taken off his clothes and got into the tub when the doorbell rang persistently.


    Although puzzled, Igor still wrapped himself in a towel and went to open the door, finding Ashe outside.


    ��Let��s y rock paper scissors.��


    ��What?��


    ��Don��t ask, just y rock paper scissors with me, and you have to win three times!��


    ��Is this some kind of necessary ritual?��


    ��Yes!��


    ��Will it harm me?��


    ��No!��


    Igor observed Ashe for a while and felt he was probably telling the truth, so he said, ��Then I refuse.��


    ��Why?��


    ��Helping you is friendship, not helping you is principle. Why should I help youplete the ritual?��


    ��Why do you need a reason to help others?��


    ��Your current position doesn��t really support you saying that�� And do I look like a phnthropist?��


    Ashe pondered for a moment: ��Do you know why mages can��t drink boiling water and have to wait for it to cool first?��


    Igor was startled: ��Why?��


    ��If you apany me toplete this ritual, I��ll tell you.��


    Could boiling water contain traces of toxins that damage arcane energy? Or is ��boiled water�� part of some ritual that would have undesirable consequences if interfered with?


    In the mage world, all things contain truths. Something seemingly trivial could be a ��ritual taboo�� that mages spent centuries summarizing, like ��chanting passages for the deceased�� can effectively reduce the lingering death aura.


    Therefore, when Ashe said this, Igor became curious and agreed to Ashe��s request, easily winning him three times��with some mind reading ability, Igor could almost see what Ashe would y each round written on his face.


    ��Thanks, Igor!��


    ��What ritual requires someone to win rock paper scissors against you three times����


    ��It��s called the padding de ritual. I just lost to you due to bad luck, so now my luck will turn good. See youter����


    ��Wait, you haven��t told me why mages can��t drink freshly boiled water yet.��


    ��Because it burns your tongue.��


    Igor watched Ashe leave nkly, closed the door, and went back to the bathtub.


    He looked at the ceiling, rubbed his temples, and fell into contemtion.


    ��Is it because I��ve been interacting with him too often recently that my IQ has also been affected����


    After the bath, Igor was fortunately triggered an ��Inspiration�� spirit while brushing his teeth. He saw the sshing toothpaste foam leave a sentence on the mirror��


    ��Don��t try drinking freshly boiled water.��


    ��Who would drink that!��


    The padding de ritualpleted, Ashe returned to his dorm.


    ��Confirm spending 30 Source Crystals for 10 draws? Note: You can manually increase the number of draws. More draws make it easier to draw rare cards!��


    ��Confirm spending 42 Source Crystals for 14 draws?��


    ��Confirmed!��


    Whoosh��


    It was still the extremely simple draw interface. Eight white lights, four purple lights, and��two gold lights appeared!


    The eight white lights were 1 basicbat card, 4 Energy Potions, and 3 Experience Potions. Although the Experience Potions were eptable since they could stack, drawing so many Energy Potions that a Operator could only use 1 of per week�� These must be pool-polluting items!


    Ashe looked on and his eyes lit up instantly: the four purple lights were 3 ��Spirits�� Joy Potions�� and 1 ��Honey Belly Sword��.


    Spirits�� Joy Potion (x3): Increases a Operator��s favorability with their spirit, speeding up their mastery. Lasts 1 week, effects do not stack.


    Honey Belly Sword: Honey that can be hidden under the tongue. Bite down when needed to turn into a sword. Can pass any security check. Can be upgraded.


    The Spirits�� Joy Potions were undoubtedly what Ashe needed most right now. He had just obtained his Heart Sword and Circte spirits and couldn��t wield them freely in the virtual world, let alone resonate them in reality.


    The effect was a bit strange though, supposedly increasing the spirit��s favorability towards the Operator�� Did the potion make spirits go into heat��?


    The Honey Belly Sword wasn��t useful yet, but Ashe would definitely need a weapon after the prison break. As seen in Shattered Lake Prison, the outside world was full of obstacles and security for escapees.


    So the Honey Belly Sword, which could pass checks, was essential for fugitives.


    Finally, there were two gold lights!


    Alchemist��s Distition sk: Combine two of the same potions for a 30% chance to distill a stronger advanced potion, 30% chance to mutate into another rare potion, 40% chance of failure losing both potions.


    Ashe perked up instantly��with this sk, those pool-polluting potions could be reprocessed. Although there was also a chance of loss, at least there was hope, like buying lottery tickets.


    Random Spirit Summon Card: The Operator performs a summoning ritual to independently summon a rare spirit of their current level, instantly advancing the spirit��s faction level to match the Operator��s. Note: rituals vary in restrictions, duration, and requirements based on the spirit, but will not exceed seven days.


    At first nce, this gold card didn��t seem that special, just summoning a spirit. Ashe could get 12 in one night.


    But upon closer look, the key was not the spirit but the ��current level��!


    He now knew mages were split into Single-Wing Silver, Two-Wing Gold, Three-Wing Saint, Four-Wing Legend ranks. So if Swordswoman advanced to Two-Wing, using this card on her would surely summon a Two-Wing spirit��higher-Wing spirits were naturally better.


    But mages needed sufficient faction level to summon matching spirits.


    Without Gold rank in a faction, she couldn��t summon a Two-Wing spirit, and so on!


    So this gold card��s true effect was: instantly advance a Operator��s random faction to their current Virtual Wing level and obtain a spirit of that level!


    For a One-Wing mage, it was just an Experience Orb + spirit. But for Two-Wing and above, it was terrifying.


    Mastering an unfamiliar faction from nothing in under seven days!


    Reason told Ashe this card became more valuableter, but the current situation left no room for hoarding.


    To seed, he had to convert everything intobat power. Regretting that a sliver of power cost them the escape andnding in Lorein��s cooking pot was uneptable.


    First the Distition sk. With 7 Energy and 4 Experience Potions, hebined them into 2 Advanced Energy Potions and 1 Advanced Experience Potion.


    Advanced Energy Potion: Adds an advanced action point during training for 7 days. Eliminates Operator energy consumption, increases positive feedback and mood, small chance of increasing Trust Level.


    Advanced Experience Potion: +50% skill exp gain during training for 7 days, stacks up to 100% on an Operator.


    That should have been it, but Ashe put in 2 Spirits�� Joy Potions as well.


    He still had 1 left if it failed, and if it seeded��


    Spirits�� Frenzy Potion: Greatly increases a spirit��s favorability towards the Operator, vastly speeding up mastery. Lasts 1 week, effects do not stack.


    The name was sounding more and more like an aphrodisiac��


    Ashe opened Operator Management, and the game suddenly prompted:


    ��Death Maniac Swordswoman��s training has ended. Please review the growth report and set this week��s regimen soon.��


    Growth Report 4.12-4.18


    Swordsmanship Faction: 0 �� Silver


    Light Faction: 0 �� Silver


    Water Faction: Beginner �� Silver


    Arcane Energy: 0 �� Silver Half-Wing


    Training Evaluation: A!


    Due to an A evaluation, Death Maniac Swordswoman gained the Sorcerer Handbook��s Job Enhancement:


    One-Wing Swordsmage �� Annihtion Silver Swordsmage


    Annihtion Silver Swordsmage: Recover 0.5% max arcane energy whenever dealing damage.


    Ashe was surprised there was an evaluation and high scores gave special rewards��job enhancements.


    Although unrted to him, a stronger Swordswoman obviously increased exploration efficiency, and Annihtion Silver Swordsmage seemed quite useful.


    The Silver water faction was from the 2 Experience Orbs yesterday, swordsmanship and water.


    With Share Experience, he had let Swordswoman have both. Seeing her touched reaction in-game, he could almost hear the ��Your bond with Death Maniac Swordswoman has deepened�� prompt.


    Then he opened Training Regimen.


    Death Maniac Swordswoman


    Current Mood: 6 (0% exp bonus)


    Avable Actions: Rest, Amuse, Train, Combat


    Suggestion: Swordswoman hasn��t had rest/amusement for a week. Appropriate leisure can effectively improve mood, work-life bnce enables better training.


    Ashe hesitated slightly: Swordswoman hadined many times aboutcking rest, and she had helped him so much in-game that in justice, he should let her rx��


    Bang bang! ��Ashe,e out! We have to find thest teammate today!�� Igor��s voice came from outside.


    Ashe instantly snapped out of it: Leaders must set an example and take the lead. If even he couldn��t rest, how could Swordswoman?


    I reject your suggestion!

 Chapter 84: “Sincerity”

    <h4>Chapter 84 �C ��Sincerity��</h4>


    Gales, Swordflower College.


    Sonya returned to the dormitory and saw Lois up early, reading books, while Adelle was still cuddled up with her stuffed animal, sleeping. She couldn��t help but express her surprise, ��Weren��t you and Adelle both up early yesterday, studying hard? She even said she wanted to summon a spirit and step into the Virtual Realm before the end of this semester����


    ��Yesterday, she persisted with her studies for quite a while, only turning on the Holographic Screen to watch ��Love Across Time and Space�� after lunch,�� Lois replied indifferently. ��Before that, she usually got distracted after breakfast, trimming her nails, ying with her hair, and such.��


    ��The new series by Drose?!�� Sonya asked reflexively. But she quickly shook her head, ��At this rate�� can she even graduate?��


    Lois shrugged, ��It doesn��t really matter if she doesn��t. She has a fianc��, who happens to be a very influential Noble, and given her father��s recent promotion, I guess Adelle will probably just get married straight after graduation.��


    Sonya let out a sound of acknowledgment, surprised to find herself unaffected by Adelle��s circumstances.


    In the past, Adelle��s family support and life n would have undoubtedly made Sonya envious: with her family��s backing and her fianc����s support, even if Adelle couldn��t do anything, was na?ve to worldly ways, and spent her life as a pampered Nobledy wasting away her days, she would still live a life of blissful peace, shielded from all misfortune.


    She was born with everything Sonya had ever longed for.


    Who would want to start from scratch if they had something to begin with? Who would be so calcting if they had support? And who would want to endure hardship if they weren��t born in a greenhouse?


    Adversity was never a forge; the unfairness of fate is reality. Sonya��s past poor rtionships with Lois and others were not only because Lois looked down on her with arrogance but also because Sonya was part of the problem��Lois��s confidence, stemming from her strong backing, deeply wounded Sonya, who had just left her hometown.


    But now, Sonya found that upon hearing about others�� happy futures, she no longer felt jealousy or resentment.


    Though she didn��t have a wealthy fianc�� or family support, she didn��t believe her own future would be worse than Adelle��s or Lois��s��yes, she was still shallow, needing to be superior to others to satisfy her pride.


    So much had happened over the past week that Sonya had experienced a sea change without even realizing it.


    She was still vain, still strict about her makeup, still cunning, but she had also be a One Wing Sorcerer, a Research Apprentice to Professor Trozan, had ovee Felix, and could even spar with Leoni (she didn��t consider it a victory)��


    These events were like bricks and mortar, building a wall behind Sonya.


    Even if Sonya couldn��t persist in the future and wanted to retreat, she had something to fall back on.


    Moreover, there was someone by her side. Though he might not be reliable, with many ws, and even now his strength was less than hers, at least�� he stood right beside her.


    After taking a bath, Sonya ced a silver coin on the table to feed the spirit and then began to apply a facial mask.


    That��s when she noticed a few new items on the table.


    First was a ss bottle containing a mixture of green, gold, and pink liquids that clearly wasn��t a healthy beverage. But Sonya remembered this bottle��seven days ago, when the Observer first appeared in the real world, he was carrying an identical one.


    Under the bottle was a note that read: ��Contains Advanced Stamina Potion, Advanced Experience Potion, and Spirit Joy Potion. Remember to shake well before drinking.��


    Sonya eyed the bottle suspiciously, but in the end, she shook it and downed it in one gulp��what choice did she have? Last time, the Observer had sent the potion directly down her throat; now, at least, he was showing some goodwill by letting her drink it herself.


    As for any suspicions that the Observer might harm her, Sonya had long given up on such thoughts.


    Facing someone who could control your actions, a suspected Legend reborn with amnesia, unless Sonya could find the Observer��s physical body and confine it in a basement to exploit for value, all her plotting was as meaningless as New Year��s resolutions.


    It was better to sincerely cling to the Observer as a profitable stock, do as he says, and create an impression of ��I am very useful,�� letting him drop his guard and reveal more ws.


    The more the Observer trusted her, the closer she was to the day when she could turn the tables.


    The potion tasted pleasantly of citrus, lemon, and sea salt. Sonya licked her lips and turned her attention to another item that stood out on the table.


    A letter?


    The Observer didn��t seem the type to be so poetic�� more like someone who would wait outside the door to talk to her while she took a bath��


    With curiosity, Sonya opened it and found a precious card decorated with gold leaf inside, which read:


    ��Swordswoman, you are about to automatically undergo a random Summoning Ritual for a spirit and elevate the spirit��s Faction Realm to your current level. The Summoning Ritual varies depending on the spirit, but it won��t take more than seven days. As you read this line, the random spirit draw will begin. Good luck.��


    The text on the card transformed and finally settled into two golden characters:


    ��Sincerity��


    Sonya instantly realized the immense power of this card: without any need for her to study or practice, the automatic Summoning Ritual would elevate her to Silver Rank in a Magical Faction she had never encountered before! And it came with a spirit to boot!


    Although it was just an Experience Orb, she was well aware of her own capabilities; without the Observer, she likely wouldn��t have had the chance to obtain an Experience Orb in her lifetime.


    Moreover, ��Sincerity�� seemed to be a spirit from the Mind Faction, which was arguably the most difficult Magical Faction to master. This time, Sonya knew she had hit the jackpot!


    Despite her dissatisfaction with the Observer��s frequent meddling in her life, the fact that he had given her two Experience Orbs the night before, and now had arranged such a wonderful benefit for her, Sonya couldn��t help but feel genuinely grateful: Observer, meeting you has been the luck of my lifetime!


    By the time the card had dissipated into a wisp of smoke, Sonya waited for a moment but noticed that nothing seemed to happen.


    Had the Ritual begun? But why didn��t it feel like anything had changed?


    Just then, the door to the dormitory suddenly swung open, and an Engulite enveloped in steamy heat strolled in. She grabbed a towel, wiped off her sweat, and took a drink of water, announcing, ��Adelle, it��s time for ss!��


    Adelle sat up groggily, following her body��s instincts to wash up without even fully opening her eyes.


    As Engulite headed off to shower, Sonya and Lois also began their pre-ss preparations: eyeshadow had to match the lipstick, blush couldn��t be too overwhelming, and the fragrance was centered around orange and bitter orange, aiming for a subtle yet lingering presence.

 Chapter 85: I’m Too Lazy to Write

    Chapter 85: I��m Too Lazy to Write


    ��Ah! I forgot to wash my clothes!��


    Adele frantically opened her wardrobe, her face full of despair. ��I forgot to doundry these past few days, and now I have no clean clothes left to wear. Iris����


    ��Don��t look at me, it��s your own fault for beingzy,�� Iris curled her lips. ��My clothes are tailored to fit me precisely. If you wear them even once, they��ll basically be misshapen, especially the chest area which you��d stretch out with your bust���� She tilted her head towards Sonya. ��You should ask Sonya.��


    Ingrid, who had just gotten out of the shower, chimed in while drying her hair. ��I do have some loose-fitting clothes, but I��m taller than you, so the sleeves might not fit well.��


    Adele looked pleadingly at Sonya. ��Sonya����


    Of the four roommates, only Sonya had a simr build to Adele. Sonya knew she couldn��t get out of this, but still tried to make an excuse��she didn��t want to lend her clothes to others either.


    ��No, I don��t like wearing other people��s clothes, nor having others wear mine.��


    Iris and Ingrid exchanged strange looks at Sonya.


    Adele blinked, then went to borrow some of Ingrid��s clothes. But since Ingrid was a full head taller than her, the swordswoman��s top looked almost like a dress on petite Adele.


    They had a public lecture ss this morning, so all four headed to the cafeteria for breakfast together.


    Halfway there, a male voice suddenly called out, ��Sonya!��


    They looked over to see a rather handsome blonde young man approaching. Iris�� face immediately darkened.


    The student was Merowit, who had previously pursued Iris. Thinking he was good-looking and from a noble family, Iris had given him a chance to court her. But with just a few flirty nces from Sonya, Merowit had switched his affection, utterly humiliating Iris in front of her friends.


    ��Good morning, Merowit.��


    ��Good morning, Sonya,�� Merowit said enthusiastically. ��I rarely get to see you since you transferred to the Swordsmanship Department. What a nice coincidence today. How about we have dinner together tonight? It��s seafood season now. Do you want to go to Golden Coast or Eel Matters Fish?��


    Iris scoffed inwardly. Sonya doesn��t even care for Felix now, let alone Merowit. Merowit is suddenly so proactive, he must have received hints from his family. After all, Sonya is Professor Trotzam��s apprentice, and has the achievement of defeating Leone. She is almost destined to be a Saint Swordsaint in the future.


    For middle and minor noble families, gaining a Spellweaver as powerful as a three-winged mage could provide tremendous assistance. While Merowit may have initially only been interested in Sonya��s looks, now there was likely the allure of status and connections behind his interest as well.


    Iris knew Sonya would surely reject him, but it was hard to predict how. She hoped Sonya wouldn��t take the chance to make snide remarks at her��


    ��No, I��m training and have no time.��


    ��You��re so diligent, but rxing is also important for cultivation,�� Merowit persisted. ��If you don��t like seafood, we could����


    ��I don��t think eating with you would be rxing.��


    Merowit��s expression froze. He muttered a ��sorry to bother you�� and quickly departed. After walking a few steps, Sonya noticed the other three hanging back, exchanging looks. ��What��s going on?��


    ��Oh, nothing,�� Iris smoothed out her strange expression.


    The four arrived at the tiered lecture hall, with passing students actively greeting them. Putting aside Sonya��s recent antics, even before, she and Iris were considered a beautiful scenic line of the academy. Being surrounded by admirers wherever they went was standard.


    Iris enthusiastically returned her ssmates�� greetings, while Sonya just calmly nodded, not saying a word. Seeing this, the uneasy feeling in the other three grew stronger.


    Having just sat down, Adele immediately turned deathly pale. ��Oh no, I forgot to write my essay! The professor is going to collect it this ss!��


    Even Ingrid couldn��t help gloating. ��Well you��re screwed now.��


    This lecture was on Modern Cailleach History, taught by Professor Wesley, who was over sixty and infamously strict and traditional. Pop quizzes and collecting assignments on the spot were routine. If the after-ss essay wasn��tpleted, just wait to retake the ss next year.


    Sure enough, the first thing the white-haired, straight-backed old professor did upon entering was bark out the dreadedmand: ��ce your essays on the lectern, we��ll check them now.��


    With a flick of his hand, a single-wing Schr spirit floated up to the lectern. Despite having only one wing, it was the bane of countless students��the ��Inspector�� spirit!


    With detailed settings by its mage, the Inspector could swiftly judge if an essay met requirements. linking it to the school��s Archives, the mage could even cast a Miracle to check for giarism from the library��s sources on the spot!


    One by one, the students turned in their essays. With a light tap, the Inspector would disy green for a pass, yellow for significant simrity to existing works, and red for major suspected giarism.


    The professor said nothing, merely sitting there watching everyone turn in their assignments, only giving a cold huff when a student had no essay, noting down their information.


    When it was Adele��s turn, she walked up empty-handed, big shiny eyes full of sincerity. ��Professor Wesley, I identally fell asleep while writing my essayst night, so I haven��t finished it yet. May I turn it in next week?��


    Wesley nced at her. ��If your essay next week has over 10% simrity, your participation grade is an automatic fail.��


    ��Okie dokie!�� Adele bounced happily back to her seat, not bothered by the pressure at all.


    Next was Sonya��s turn. Seeing her also empty-handed, Wesley��s expression softened considerably. ��You didn��t write it?��


    ��Yes.��


    ��Why didn��t you write it? Was it because of heavy training? I heard Professor Trozam often has you for extra lessons. Though spellcasting cultivation is important, a well-rounded education is also essential.��


    The other students were full of envy and jealousy. No essay for them meant definitely losing points, but with Trozam��s backing, Wesley was helping Sonya justify it!


    If Sonya just went along with it and buttered up the professor some more, he might even waive the assignment for herpletely��


    ��I was toozy to write it.��


    Dead silence filled the ssroom.


    After a pause, Wesley��s face seemed to say ��Did I hear that right?�� ��What did you just say?��


    Sensing the strangeness from those around her, Sonya reflexively started to repeat herself.


    But suddenly she realized��wait, wasn��t I supposed to invoke Trozam��s name here,pliment Wesley a few times, so he��d let me skip this essay assignment?


    ��I���� Sonya opened her mouth. ��I was toozy to write this pointless, time-wasting assignment with no nutritional value.��


    Seeing Wesley��s face that looked ready to erupt with magma, and the admiring expressions of her ssmates that wanted tough but didn��t dare, Sonya finally understood what the ��sincere�� summoning ritual really was!


    My meeting you really is the greatest misfortune of my life!

 Chapter 86: The Prison Break Research Society

    Chapter 86: The Prison Break Research Society


    ��This is where the transport ships dock. The transport shipse to Shattered Lake Prison on the 1st, 11th and 21st of each month to deliver supplies and death row inmates. The ships are medium-sized cargo vessels, and they always have at least one team of Blood Mad Hunters escorting the prisoners. The Hunters usually have one or two wings �C three-wing squad leaders onlye for really important inmates����


    Ashe nced at the guard puffing on a pipe not far away and couldn��t help saying, ��Maybe we should talk further away?��


    Igor nced at him. ��No one will suspect you. This is my business.��


    ��Business?��


    ��Didn��t Igor invite you to break out with him when you first met?�� Langna stood outside the yellow line at the shore, gazing at the calm, wavelesske surface. The clear blue sky was reflected in the water, and asional glimmers of silver shed across the surface �C it looked like a beautiful natural scene, if you didn��t know those ��silver lights�� were schools of Finger Sharks that could crunch bones like potato chips.


    ��Yeah, but I thought that was just an excuse to lure naive new inmates?�� Ashe said.


    ��While I appreciate your urate self-awareness, don��t insult my professionalism.�� Igor nced at Ashe. ��I never lie. If you check the Club Directory in the library, you��ll see on page 2, line 13 that I started the Prison Break Research Club.��


    Many questions bubbled up in young Ashe��s mind. ��How can a prison allow�� This ce has clubs�� Why did you start this club?��


    ��The best hunters often pose as prey.�� Igor said calmly. ��Remember when we first met, didn��t I seem eager, like a friendly guy trying to recruit a new buddy?


    ��Even wary new death row inmates get drawn in by the insider information I reveal. And I don��t just talk �C I��ve actually researched escape ns and scouted the prison with them.


    ��As they get to know me, they realize I��m just an idiot obsessed with escaping, and they lower their guard without realizing they��re walking into a trap.


    ��I��m the bait, the club is my lure.��


    Ashe said, ��It sounds like a sweet innocent girl who pretends to be pure but actually seduces dirty old men����


    ��I��m starting to doubt the speech control abilities of your chip. Those words could easily qualify as spreading obscenity.�� Igor said calmly. ��In short, pay the guards no mind �C I��ve brought people on scouting trips like this dozens of times.��


    Ashe blinked. ��Is this your scheme? Pretend you��re always thinking of escaping, use that to lure new inmates, then when you actually want to escape, no one will suspect you?��


    Igor looked at Ashe in surprise, then smiled amusedly. ��Ashe, I��m hurt you think so poorly of me.��


    ��Hmph.��


    After investigating the prison docks, the four headed back inside. Notably, although they reached the perimeter, they never actually went ��outside�� �C Shattered Lake Prison covered the entire ind. Other than the asional ss atrium letting in sunlight, whenever inmates looked up, all they saw was the ceiling. Even the Ocean View terrace had shade canopies.


    There wasn��t an inch ofnd outside the ��prison�� on the whole ind.


    Though unconfirmed, the chips�� strong control over inmates probably rted to the omnipresent ceiling.


    ��Where we��re going next is my greatest find in exploring Shattered Lake. I��ve never shown anyone else �C you��re the first lucky ones to share the secret.��


    Before Ashe could feel moved, Langna calmly said, ��Do you say that to every victim? Next will you say ��So you have to swear to keep all my secrets��?��


    Igor looked surprised. ��Gourmet, how did you know I say that? Anyone I told should be magically bound by a spirit to keep my secret, unable to tell others. How could you know?��


    ��Walls have ears, Igor. As a martial mage, I happen to have very sharp hearing, unfortunately.��


    ��I see, I��ll be more careful and covert when doing dirty work next time �C if I can keep living here, that is.��


    Ashe nced at Langna, then at the silent Ronat beside him. Ronat hadn��t said a word, just following Langna around after their talk yesterday.


    The details of their subsequent deathmatch could be summed up as shredding a chicken. The aftermath was obvious �C if Ronat was Langna��s reluctant servant before, now he was practically an essory. He didn��t seem happy exactly, but no longer resistant.


    Less and less of him belonged to ��himself��, more and more to ��Langna��.


    Eventually when he emerged from the infirmary, even the regenerated parts would be engraved with ��Langna��s�� name.


    Perhaps Igor was right and Ronat was sunk deep in quicksand. He thoughtmanding Langna��s love was his victory, unaware it was also Langna��s lethal counterattack.


    Love is a frightening power �C you can use it, but it uses you; you watch it, it watches you; you think you master it, but quickly be its ve.


    Once love��s seeds sprout, all else bes its parasite.


    Privately, Ronat��s will to survive remained, insisting on escape, fortunately Langna couldn��t perform his ritual often. Otherwise Ronat would be scrap in days.


    ording to Igor��s intel, Langna��s ��friends��sted at least a month. Ronat should make it until the next Blood Moon Tribunal �C enough, since Ashe just needed a temporary ally. Whether Ronat could resist Langna after escaping depended on his luck.


    ��But I never lie.�� Igor smiled. ��This ce really is critical for our escape. I��d even call it as important as Ashe��s Purification miracle����


    We arrived. As key as my sh miracle? A secret passage? Arsenal? Or maybe��


    Ashe looked up eagerly, only to see a clear green sign above the room ahead �C


    ��Men��s Restroom��

 Chapter 87: The Weak Medical Mages

    Chapter 87: The Weak Medical Mages


    ��To be honest, I��m the type who can��t pee when someone��s watching. Could you guys turn around for a second?��


    ��Is that so?�� Igor nced over with a slight upturn of his lips. ��I see, no wonder.��


    Ashe grumbled and cursed as he went into the stall.


    Langna looked around with a bewildered expression. ��What��s so special about this bathroom that it warrants the conman��s attention?��


    ��This bathroom is no different from any other bathroom. There��s nothing special about it,�� said Igor as he wet his fingers and gently washed his eyes. ��What��s special is that a bathroom can serve as a medium for us to trick the miracle chips.��


    ��Perhaps you know already, but before I was imprisoned, I was an insurance salesman �C though my job wasn��t just contracting policies, marketing was also part of it. When I did marketing, I didn��t only market insurance. I had ess to all kinds of products. In the end it was just work �C I simply took on several jobs at once.��


    Curious, Ashe asked, ��Sounds ambitious. So why did you get caught and put in here?��


    Igor sighed. ��Well, I feel wronged about this too. All I did was help customers buy products they wanted, yet I got convicted of aggravated fraud.��


    Langna suddenly said, ��If I remember right, your crowning achievement was making a tycoon go bankrupt buying a ss of water.��


    ��A ss of water? Just in old water?��


    ��Water is no ordinary thing. It��s the elixir of life, the origin of all life, the medium of miracles, the mother who nurtures the skies and the earth����


    Ashepletely understood now. Igor was the sort who could get full marks on interview questions like ��Sell this pen to me for $1000��.


    ��Alright, there are no customer targets here for you. Tone down the sales pitch and just tell us how to use the bathroom to trick the chips,�� said Ashe.


    Igor nced at him. ��Among the products I used to broker, there was a life sign monitoring device. It could receive the life sign signals emitted by the miracle chips and analyze the user��s condition based on various vital signs. The device itself isn��t key. What��s key is that when I was studying how it worked, I discovered the miracle chips don��t continuously transmit life signals. There��s a certain interval, with the default being 600 seconds, or 10 minutes.��


    ��The frequency can be adjusted, but the higher the frequency, the greater the demands on the device receiving the signal. For example, the device I marketed �C even the highest spec one could only receive a signal every 5 seconds. Without any markup, just the device itself was extremely expensive.��


    ��The prison chip processing unit that collects and analyzes our vitals is undoubtedly military grade, but even so, the prison wouldn��t waste resources having our chips transmit continuously. With the chip limits, we have no way to break out of Shattered Lake Prison.��


    ��The only effect even if the signal frequency interval is maximized is that it��ll take longer to discover if we suddenly die.��


    ��The only ce in the prison that makes us continuously transmit life signals should be the Deathmatch Society arena. Because when we send out the unconscious or dead signal in a deathmatch, the arena will immediately restore our attack limits �C this shows life signals are monitored in real time.��


    Ashe felt this was important information, but still didn��t understand how to utilize it. ��It��s certainly interesting trivia, but what��s the link to breaking out?��


    Igor nced at him. ��If you removed your chip so it stops transmitting life signals, how do you think the processor would judge your status? Even corpses still emit signals, you know.��


    Ashe understood at once. ��It would judge I removed my chip and am escaping, and would instantly notify the prison there��s a breakout!��


    ��Right. But to escape, we have to remove the chips �C otherwise we can��t even leave the ind.��


    Ashe nodded. When they observed the port earlier, they noticed a yellow line around the shore with a ��Do Not Cross�� sign.


    Though it said ��please��, for prisoners it was an absolute limit �C the moment they touched the line with a toe, their bodies wouldpletely freeze, unable to move.


    ��So during the time between ��removing the chip�� and ��the processor discovers our breakout�� is our safest action window. Not only are all limits removed then, but the prison doesn��t know anything��s amiss yet,�� said Igor, looking around. ��That��s the time gap we have to seize!��


    ��Figuring things out this far is the limit. As for the life signal frequency, we can only hope it��s the default 10 minutes.��


    Langna said, ��It��s already impressive. I thought this was just fooling around, but Igor, your performance makes me admit you��ve rekindled my hopes.��


    Even Ronald kept nodding, his will to survive slightly awakening his reason again.


    ��As expected of the man I chose. My eye for people is great after all,�� Ashe praised himself first, then asked, ��But what��s the men��s bathroom for?��


    Igor grimaced. ��The purpose of a bathroom is naturally for excretion. Or do you have a hobby of eating in them? Please demonstrate if so.��


    Speaking of his research over the years, Igor was also a bit proud. ��Now we know we have to utilize the time gap from the chip signals. But there��s still an issue �C how do we know when thest signal was sent?��


    ��The death row inmates definitely don��t all transmit simultaneously. That��s too great an instant load for the processor. So our signal times are likely evenly distributed within the 10 minutes. If the processor judges special circumstances, it��ll temporarily adjust signal frequency, then reset all inmate signals to initial state after midnight.��


    ��And the so-called special circumstances are really when the processor removes some of our privileges, so it needs our life signals immediately!��


    ��There are only three ces in the prison where ��special circumstances�� happen.��


    Igor held up two fingers. ��First is the Deathmatch Society. Because before a deathmatch, the chips remove attack limits; after a deathmatch, attack limits are restored. Those two times are when the processor interfaces with the chips. The chips need to instantly send life signals!��


    ��And after a deathmatch ends, the chips naturally revert to default frequency, sending the signals of the dead 10 minutester. This means by intentionally entering the special ce of the Deathmatch Society, we can change the chip frequency andpletely control the time gap!��


    Even Ashe fully understood now.


    He looked around the bathroom, eyeing the urinal. ��So the bathroom is the second ce?��


    Igor smiled. ��Theoretically we could also use deathmatches to change the frequency, but they are fights to the death. The bathroom is much more convenient byparison.��


    ��As for how a bathroom can achieve the same effect as the deathmatch arena, well, naturally it��s because��the prison doesn��t allow indiscriminate urination and defecation!�� Igor and Langna burst intoughter.


    Because the prison required inmates to only excrete in bathrooms, every time an inmate entered a bathroom, the prison processor would actively lift their ��excretion privileges��!


    Just like the deathmatch arena, it was a special status! Without that privilege, even if you were constipated to the point of bursting, the chip would forcibly control your sphincter shut tight, never letting a drop leak out the back end. If you really filled up, you could only vomit it out the top end.


    For inmates, this was undoubtedly unspeakable humiliation. So Igor and Langna, long-term prisoners, couldn��t help guffawing �C the harsh rule made by the prison had be an aplice in their escape. Such a bizarre reversal was naturally funny.


    Though just how much of theirughter was self-mockery, no one knew.


    ��What��s the third ce?�� asked Ashe.


    Still smiling, Igor looked to Langna.


    After thinking, Langna said, ��The lovers�� rooms?��


    Like the bathrooms, the lovers�� rooms also temporarily lifted some inmate restrictions, and even rxed attack limits �C after all, fetishes were freedom.


    But like the deathmatch arena, lovers�� rooms required applications to enter, far less convenient than bathrooms.


    And rooms needed two people minimum to apply. Langna and Ronald were one thing, but did Ashe n on applying with Igor!?


    Leaning against the wall, Igor said, ��You know all the secrets you need to. I��ll now exin the breakout n.��


    ��Aren��t we getting a fifth member?�� asked Ashe. ��We stillck rear support that can heal and move quickly.��


    Langna the moonwolf beastman could be vanguard. Ronald was good at guns and traps for ranged damage. But their rear support to heal and lead swift movement was still missing after Ashe and Igor searched for two days.


    What, you ask what Ashe and Igor are responsible for? Igor is HR, Ashe holds the core tech. They��re certainly not responsible forbat!


    ��We��ve searched everyone we could, can��t dy any longer. Not everything can be fully prepared before acting �C rushed battles are the norm, since crime opportunities are fleeting. And,�� Igor nced at him, ��even if we could wait, could you?��


    Indeed, Ashe didn��t think Professor Sylphine outside would just let him be to peacefully serve out his sentence in Shattered Lake.


    The sooner he left Shattered Lake, the sooner he��d escape Professor Sylphine��s schemes.


    ��The breakout n is simple �C sneak aboard the transport ship and leave.��


    Igor wet his fingers and drew a small boat on the mirror. ��But to safely board the transport, we not only need to remove the miracle chips, we also need legal identities.��


    ��Interestingly, there��s a group in Shattered Lake Prison that can directly board transports and leave without applying. And they��re people we can disguise as without drawing any suspicion -��


    Igor drew a crow mask on the mirror.


    ��The weak medical mages.��

 Chapter 88: I, Sonya Therave, am a Good Person!

    Chapter 88: I, Sonya Therave, am a Good Person!


    ��I��ve seen with my own eyes a medic sneak onto the transport ship with the excuse ��I want to go back and have a good meal,�� and they didn��t even have to take off their masks when boarding the ship. No one checked their identity throughout the whole process.��


    ��Although I don��t know why they have this kind of privilege, investigations show that a medic��s status should be above the prison guards.��


    Lonna��s eyes wandered as she asked, ��You want to deal with the medics?��


    ��I just want to borrow their clothes,�� Igor said inly, ��The specific process is �C we meet in the bathroom, Ashe purifies the chips on our napes, then within the next 10 minutes we each rush to the infirmary, subdue the medics with spirit beasts and take their clothes. Finally we sneak onto the departing transport ship before the prison rm goes off. Of course, we can��t harm the medics�� lives, their deaths would set off the prison rm and attract the guards�� attention.��


    ��Does everyone understand? It��s a very simple n. The only part that needs practice is how to get from the infirmary to the port within a few minutes. Practice this over the next couple days.��


    Ashe asked, ��What if the prison discovers the injured medics and notifies the transport to stop and check us?��


    ��That��s when the ��Gourmand�� and ��Woodpecker��s Golden Beak��e into y,�� Igor said lightly. ��With intention or not, can you two handle the blood mad hunters on the transport ship?��


    Lonna looked at Ronald, who took a deep breath and nodded heavily, ��We can!��


    ��I will protect Ronald,�� Lonna said.


    ��Then when does the transport ship arrive?��


    ��The transportes to the prison on the 1st, 11th, and 21st of each month.�� Igor wrote a ��2�� on the mirror. ��Today is the 19th, so Ashe, you must master the purification miracle within two days, and cast it under restraints. Any issues?��


    Ashe was silent for a moment, then nodded, ��No issues.��


    ��Then��dismissed. I hope everyone mentally prepares over the next couple days, simtes the routes, eats and drinks well, and leaves no regrets.��


    Lonna and Ronald left first. As Igor was also leaving the bathroom, Ashe suddenly asked, ��The premise of your n is that the chip changes signal frequency when entering special circumstances. But what if the chip keeps sending life signals at a fixed frequency even in special circumstances? Wouldn��t the n be doomed to fail? The prison processor might detect an anomaly the instant we disable the chips.��


    Igor looked back at him, ��Yes, that is the worst possibility.��


    ��Then what do we do if the worst possibility happens?��


    ��What to do? You��re asking me?��


    Igor seemed angry, he rushed over in one step and grabbed Ashe��s cor, staring straight into his eyes.


    ��What are you expecting? That I design a perfect, wless n for you? That if you��re not satisfied you can throw it back for me to modify? Do you want to propose some interesting requirements, like escaping Shattered Lake Prison over a rainbow?��


    He probably wanted to lift Ashe up or shove him against the wall, but the bathroom only enabled excretion permissions, not attack permissions, so Igor could only grab his cor.


    Ashe did not shrink back: ��If saying this makes you feel a little better��I��m very sorry for using you.��


    ��But I feel fortunate in my heart, that the one I used is you. If it were someone else, they definitely couldn��t havee up with a n with such high feasibility.��


    ��You think saying some sweet words is useful?�� Igor let out a coldugh, but suddenly his angry look vanished. He straightened Ashe��s cor leisurely and said, ��But if you really want to make more preparations, increase the fault tolerance of the escape n, there are ways.��


    ��What ways?��


    ��Pray to your Four Pirs, my dear cult leader.��


    Igor left him with a scornful look and turned to leave.


    Cailleach, Swordflower College.


    ��Professor Lichtblume, I think Iris is the better choice. She��s hosted various events before, so I��m sure she��d be very willing to take on the MC job for the social����


    The young professor holding a textbook stopped and looked at the pesky female student helplessly, ��Miss Therave, the MC list for the joint social between our schools was reviewed by six people in charge, and approved by the dean before being finalized. This isn��t a small event for a department or college, where you can freely switch out people as you like����


    Sonya was anxious immediately, ��Professor, I absolutely don��t mean that. I��m not close with Iris at all, I��m definitely not trying to take care of her by giving her this opportunity! Or I don��t have to give it to her either, any second or third year senior can rece me!��


    Professor Lichtblume sighed, ��Miss Therave, do you still remember our school motto?��


    ����Keeping promises is the most beautiful rose on the sword hilt, protecting is the sharpest de under the rose,''�� Sonya said helplessly.


    ��Keeping promises and protecting �C those are the school��s greatest expectations of you all. If you want to resign from the MC position, you must provide an appropriate reason, otherwise your terrible performance in such an important matter will greatly impact the school��s evaluation of you.��


    Professor Lichtblume said seriously, ��Moreover, you��re Professor Trotzam��s research apprentice. To show fairness, the school may even give you a warning!��


    As Professor Trotzam��s apprentice, Sonya naturally enjoyed various benefits in private, like professors turning a blind eye to her assignments.


    But in public, Sonya��s every move had to undergo the most rigorous scrutiny, because she was now the best student at Swordflower College, she represented the school��s reputation and could not have the slightest w, much less affect the school��s reputation!


    Sonya didn��t want a warning either. The school��s first step in punishing students was a warning, the second was suspension, and the third was direct expulsion.


    In other words, after this warning, Sonya would be just one step away from being sent back home to farm!


    ��I have some special reasons for being unsuitable as the MC����


    ��What reasons?��


    Sonya opened her mouth, her lips quivered, and she mouthed ��ah-buh-ah-buh�� for a long time but couldn��t get a word out. Professor Lichtblume raised his eyebrows, ��Miss Therave? Your reason is?��


    ��I���� Sonya spoke with great difficulty, as if her throat was on fire: ��I����


    ��Are you unwell? Is there a family matter? Too busy with schoolwork? Reached a critical point in sword training?�� Professor Lichtblume thought it looked miserable, so he actively came up with many excuses for Sonya to find one to gloss things over.


    ��It��s just��I��can��t lie.��


    Professor Lichtblume blinked.


    ��Very good quality, Miss Therave, I hope you can persist. So do you have a proper reason to resign from the MC position?��


    The corner of Sonya��s mouth twitched, and she gritted her teeth fiercely after a long pause: ��No!��


    ��Have a nice evening.��


    Watching Professor Lichtblume leave, Sonya stomped her feet in frustration, unable to do anything. She struggled a bit more, but her feet walked towards the training hall �C it was time to train.


    The moment Sonya entered the training hall, she attracted everyone��s attention. But unlike the usual admiring gazes, this time the gazes contained something indescribable �C admiration? Mockery? Gloating?


    ��Professor Westree was so angry he didn��t even teach ss����


    ��Serves that upstart right����


    ��Not even Felix is as arrogant as her, how impressive is this genius!��


    ��Sigh, geniuses have the guts to be domineering and disregard interpersonal rtionships����


    The more Sonya listened, the more grieved she felt. Her, who was meticulous, tactful, and discreet �C she actually had a day where others saw her as an inconsiderate, arrogant genius who disregarded rtionships!


    She had even fallen to being mentioned in the same breath as Felix!


    At this time, Felix also came to train. As he passed Sonya, he coughed twice and jokingly said, ��Senior Sister Sonya, Professor Trotzam listened to your opinion and went to the stylist to change his hairstyle����


    Many of the sword trainees gasped �C everyone in school knew Professor Trotzam maintained a very outdated mushroom hairstyle, but no one dared criticize Trotzam��s aesthetics, not even ��Rhythm Swordsaint�� Nidhogg, who didn��t get along well with Trotzam.


    Just how vicious were Sonya��s words that even Trotzam had to abandon his hairstyle that he��d kept for a full decade?


    As expected of Sonya, easily aplishing what others couldn��t!


    At this time, Ingritt also came to train. When she saw Sonya, she jogged over and pumped her fists in encouragement, ��Sonya, keep at it, you did the right thing. We swordswomen should be so stubborn and unbending, our inner and outer selves unified, we don��t need everyone to like us. You must persist!��


    I don��t want to be stubborn or unbending! I don��t want my inner and outer selves to be unified!


    I also want to lie, care about rtionships, have everyone like me, aplish things easily with helping from all directions, instead of being seen as socially inept by everyone like now!


    The more Sonya listened, the more grieved she felt. She channeled all her energy into beating the armor stands, every sword piercing 10 rings deep into the stand. For some reason, the more she hacked the more exhrated she felt. The more she swung her sword the more she felt strength fill her body. Training didn��t tire her at all, she could even feel a trace of joy, her stamina endlessly surging forth!


    Ding! With a clear ringing, a single-wing spirit beast emerged on her sword tip �C it was the single-wing spirit beast ��sh Sword��!


    Sonya was a bit stunned. She didn��t understand why her training efficiency today was so high, the process so refreshing, that she even smoothly summoned a single-wing spirit beast. Of course she didn��t know that was the effect of the high-level stamina drug. She could only find reasons from her performance today.


    Today, she didn��t wear a fake mask. She detested when appropriate, liked when appropriate.


    Today, she didn��t lie, didn��t cover up to avoid punishment, didn��t gloss over to maintain rtionships.


    Today, she didn��t force herself. She directly criticized Professor Trotzam��s hideous hairstyle, and decisively rejected Adele when she asked to borrow clothes.


    Then her training efficiency greatly improved, the process easy and pleasant.


    Taking all these factors into ount, an rming spection naturally arose in Sonya��s mind.


    Could it be that she, Sonya Therave��


    Was a thoroughly upright, good person at heart!?

 Chapter 89: Swordswoman, Do You Dislike Me?

    Chapter 89: Swordswoman, Do You Dislike Me?


    In a certain legacy ind in the virtual world, mes raged!


    ��Raging inferno, incinerate my mangled body!��


    The axe-wielding warrior wearing heavy armor let out a roar. His whole body was engulfed in raging mes, even his pupils turned into mes. mes spewed from his mouth, and boiling magma flowed from the crevices in his armor!


    Raging mes ignited on the de of his axe. He let out a great shout and swept it horizontally. Sonya immediately retreated back to dodge. Then he suddenly rolled left to charge forward, and his axe morphing into a sword to viciously stab at Ashe who was sneak attacking with Heart Sword!


    Ashe immediately stabbed his sword into the ground, activating the spirit beasts ��Earth Sword�� and ��Wind Wall�� to form a miracle �C ��Sword Wind Barrier��!


    A bright yellow sword-shaped barrier perfectly encapsted Ashe!


    ng!


    The resounding mor of the sword colliding with the barrier. Even as the mes on the sword were ground away by the wind barrier, Ashe didn��t retreat a single step. The barrier itself didn��t have the slightest damage either!


    This defensive miracle with two spirit beasts as the core was like an imprable fortress in the sea of knowledge!


    The attack was frustrated, but the mes in the axe warrior��s eyes still zed. He let out a low roar, and magma gushed forth from his sword to viciously stab at the sword wind barrier!


    ��Joy, anger, sorrow, delight �C all return to dust.��


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    With each resounding boom, the magma-spewing sword bombarded the sword wind barrier like a heavy cannon. Ashe��s arcane energy drained away like a waterfall, and the light on the barrier also dimmed, looking shaky as if it would shatter at any moment!


    This was the axe warrior��s offensive miracle!


    ��Swordswoman!��


    With Ashe��s shout, Sonya also finished her preparations. A steely light shed on the tip of her wooden sword, slicing into the axe warrior��s armor as easily as cutting through butter!


    At the same time, sharp fluctuations erupted from the wooden sword, turning into countless rotating des that shed the axe warrior into dozens of pieces!


    After obtaining ��sh Sword��, Sonya��s ��Rippling sh�� could be considered fullyplete. Because the vibration sword was strong in impact but not shing damage, and the split sword reduced attack power to increase the area of effect, her previous ��Rippling sh�� looked intimidating but actuallycked sufficient damage.


    But now with the sharpness granted by sh Sword, Rippling sh made up for theck of attack power. Along with the wide area of effect and medium-short attack range, it could be said to be the most practical sword miracle for single-wing swordswomen!


    The only problem was Sonya had just obtained sh Sword, and wasn��t very proficient atbining them yet. It took some time to get used to it, which is why she hadn��t been able to find a chance to use it until now when Ashe attracted aggro, finally giving her enough time to cast it.


    Of course, whether or not she intentionally wanted to watch Ashe get beat up was something no one knew.


    ��Compassion for all living beings, worries and troubles abound����


    With the finalmenting sigh, the axe warrior extinguished like mes, leaving behind four spirit beasts and a sorcerer handbook.


    But neither of them hurried to collect the spoils of war. Ashe looked at Sonya, somewhat perplexed: ��What��s wrong tonight? You haven��t said a single word, does your throat hurt?��


    The swordswoman had been very silent since entering the virtual world. Ashe thought she was in a bad mood, but her notmenting once after the fight was very abnormal.


    If it were before, she would first talk about her contributions in the battle, then point out Ashe��s mistakes in the battle, making Ashe unconsciously feel that he contributed very little and was full of gratitude towards her��


    Huh? Wait a minute?


    Thinking carefully, had the swordswoman been using words all this time to suppress him, making him dependent on her?


    Just as Ashe��s corporate ve radar reacted, Sonya shook her head and angrily pointed at Ashe, then pointed at her own mouth.


    But Ashe understood: ��You mean it��s because of the random spirit beast summoning card taking effect, you��re in a summoning ritual and can��t speak?��


    Sonya nodded.


    ��Then you can write. If there��s anything you want to say, just write it in the sand.��


    Sonya suddenly realized and pped her hands heavily. She used her wooden sword to write a few words in the sand.


    ��Observer, I curse you, you little loudspeaker.��


    Ashe looked at Sonya as Sonya looked at the words in the sand, and said: ��Turns out not only can I not lie with my mouth, even writing goes against my true feelings.��


    In Sonya��s exnation interspersed with curses, Ashe quickly understood �C she had randomly drawn the summoning ritual for the spirit beast ��Sincerity��, a very simple ritual that didn��t require sweat like sword arts orrge amounts of time learning like other schools. She just had to be honest and not lie.


    To be honest, Sonya��s luck wasn��t too bad. Not only because spirit beasts from the Mind school were very rare, but more because this summoning ritual actually didn��t matter much for most people.


    Like Ashe, he told the truth every day, yet no one believed he was wrongly used as a cult leader right?


    For other ordinary people, even if they had to tell the truth every day, they could try their best to hide at home and stay silent outside as much as possible.


    But Sonya was different �C she was the school idol, with countless people paying attention to her every move. Forget her not causing trouble, she had nock of people causing trouble for her daily, some trying to curry favor, some with ulterior motives, some from school and some from outside school.


    If Sonya had been a cool beauty from the start it would be fine, but the problem was she had previously been a good student, proper youngdy, weed in the halls and adept in the training halls �C the perfect character, even seen as the freshman sword flower.


    Her sudden inability to lie gave people the feeling her character copsed, that Sonya had gotten arrogant and no longer cared to maintain interpersonal rtionships!


    Ashe listened andughed. Sonya got angry: ��Are you mistaken? I��m in trouble now, shouldn��t you hurry and help me stop this ritual?��


    ��Sorry, I haven��t received professional training, I really couldn��t helpughing seeing your misfortune.�� Ashe giggled and said, ��But stopping this ritual, won��t you lose the ability to independently summon ��Sincerity�� and be unable to raise your Mind school to the silver level? Is that really ok?��


    Sonya hesitated: ��If I continue this ritual, I��ll offend many more people over the next few days. Compared to them��the Mind school is clearly more important.��


    After speaking, even Sonya was startled �C was this what she really thought? Was she the type who saw individual strength as most important, willing to destroy her rtionships for it?


    ��See, you��re the one who said it.��


    ��But at least help me pause it for a day! I��m going to MC the joint social in a few days, I must be able to lie then, or I��ll offend a lot of people!��


    ��I can��t do that.�� Ashe spread his hands helplessly. ��After I arranged your schedule for this week, even I can��t cancel it. At most I can temporarily add some special events for you, I can��t reduce your existing arrangements.��


    ��Useless! A weakling who can only control me through despicable means!��


    ��You��re right, after all the one controlling you isn��t me, but Aurora��my legacy from my previous life.�� Ashe shrugged.


    Sonya actually expected this. The observer��s ability to control her differed too greatly from the observer��s own strength, in other words the observer wasn��t relying on his current abilities to control her.


    If it wasn��t now, then it was the legacy left by him as a legendary powerhouse, before losing his memories and reincarnating.


    Perhaps this was why the observer kept relying on her �C he couldn��t arbitrarily utilize that legacy. The legacy randomly chose her, so the observer could only try his best to help her grow stronger, then have Sonya give back to him once she reached a certain level of strength.


    Sonya��s cursing just now wasn��t a spur of the moment thing. From entering the virtual world, she had beenying out her ns, using thebel of ��I can only tell the truth now�� to say some slightly over the line usations, to get the observer to voluntarily reveal more information, without causing his dislike.


    ��Sincerity�� could also be utilized.


    Just as Sonya was carefully digesting the information Ashe had revealed, Ashe suddenly asked, ��Oh right, Swordswoman do you dislike me?��


    ��I don��t dislike you.��


    Sonya had just finished speaking when she covered her mouth, her willow brows almost standing upright �C she was really angry now.


    ��I��m warning you, if you take this chance to ask about my inner secrets���� She said seriously, ��I��ll resent you for life.��


    ��Sorry, my mistake, I shouldn��t have.�� Ashe quickly apologized three times. ��You have priority pick on tonight��s spoils to make up for it��huh?��


    As he spoke, the four spirit beasts burst out by the axe warrior had unknowingly crawled onto Ashe. The most shameless one was a cat-shaped single wing spirit beast, constantly rubbing itself in Ashe��s armpits, as if it smelled really good.


    Noticing Sonya��s puzzled gaze, Ashe exined: ��I used an spirit beast excitement potion, the effects are stronger than the spirit beast joy elixir we drank, so the spirit beasts are clinging to me.��


    ��This potion will make spirit beasts take the initiative to look for us?��


    ��I don��t know, but it can increase spirit beasts�� favorability towards us, maybe it��s possible?��


    The four spirit beasts were ��Chop Axe��, ��Incinerate��, ��Magma��, and ��Mangled Body��. Chop Axe was an essential spirit beast for axe warriors, effectively increasing the destructive power of axe and sword forms, it was quite interesting that it took the form of a cat.


    ��Incinerate�� and ��Magma�� were fire-type spirit beasts. The miracle they formed together almost blew apart Ashe��s sword wind barrier.


    ��Mangled Body�� was from the Masochist school. Its effects were that the more heavily injured, the greater the recovery, resistance, and massive reduction in pain. So the axe warrior��s ��natural miracle�� just now was actually amon skill.


    This battle also showed that the sorcerer projections they encountered grew increasingly powerful, from the very beginning with only a single spirit beast gunner, to this axe warrior with four spirit beasts and two miracles. The swift arcane energy growth led the Truth Seekers deeper into the sea of knowledge.


    Unless they chose to give up, the virtual world would forever chase after sorcerers.


    Sonya flipped through the sorcerer handbook for a bit before tossing it to Ashe. Ashe caught it and took a look, discovering it was a ��Spoils of War Catalog�� �C looks like the axe warrior was a bandit before his death?


    No, Ashe quickly dismissed his own idea. This axe warrior was probably a religious mercenary, or a mercenary with religious beliefs, because most of the spoils were contributed as supplies to the ��Raging Fire Sanctum�� mentioned inside.


    For spoils that were resources, they would be offered to the Sanctum. For spoils that were sapient races, they would be developed into followers. Spirit beasts and miracle arts were also handed to the Sanctum for allocation. It was unknown whether the axe warrior had outstanding morals or if the Sanctum��s rules were harsh, but the axe warrior rarely embezzled spoils for himself, except for��


    ��Swordswoman, take a look here.��


    ��I��m not like you, indiscriminately taking anything greasy or vegetarian like a flirt.�� Sonya spread her hands and said, ��As you know, I can��t lie right now.��


    Although Ashe felt she was taking the chance to openly scold him, and he didn��t even have the right to retort, he didn��t have evidence.


    ��It mentions the method to trigger a maelstrom.��


    ��A maelstrom huh, no wonder���� Sonya was excited, ��It can trigger a maelstrom?��


    Facing Sonya��s delighted gaze, Ashe nodded, ��ording to this, maelstroms can actually be manually triggered by the virtual world��s mechanisms!��

 Chapter 90: The Vortex Toxin

    Chapter 90: The Vortex Toxin


    ��Plunder Item #221: Cylindrical Labyrinth��


    ��Origin: The caravan of the Emerald Cross��


    ��Obtaining Process: The Temple dispatched us to plunder a caravan from the Emerald Cross. Unlike most caravans, they did not carry any banners, meaning they were not under the protection of any forces. In this desert, it could only mean they were either thirsty for death, or had the strength to protect themselves.��


    ��They were indeed strong. After losing three Silver Fire Knights, our captain finally led us topletely annihte this caravan. Their souls shall surely be purified in the mes and ascend the stairs of the sun, attaining eternal serenity.��


    ��When searching through the spoils of war, I found a very exquisite cylindrical object in one of the tents, which could be grasped with one hand. Just then, I noticed a child hiding in the shadows, staring at the cylinder in my hand.��


    ��Perhaps I was misled by the plundering fire. I asked him what this was, and he said it was a family heirloom containing the secret to triggering a vortex.��


    ��Before the captain came in, I had already purified the child. May his soul forever depart from thisnd of disaster.��


    ��I hid the cylinder. After some investigation, I learned it was a treasure called the ��Labyrinth��, containing the aura of a four-winged spirit. If not opened correctly, the mechanisms left by the four-winged spirit would automatically damage its contents.��


    ��My wisdom was not enough to unlock thisbyrinth. So I pursued the most clever woman in the Temple. After making an evesting vow, I gave her the cylinder. She spent a month finally opening it and obtained its secrets.��


    ��With this secret, our arcane powers advanced by leaps and bounds. Due to my stupidity, I only triggered a vortex once, while she triggered it twice andpletely unfolded her Silver Wings.��


    ��Until one day after leaving the virtual world, I found my body restrained by the Temple Knights. She stood behind the knights, with a stern expression.��


    ��She exposed me. I had a broken cylindricalbyrinth hidden in my clothes. She advanced to two wings and no longer needed this secret or me. What she needed now was the Temple��s favor, she needed to relieve the vortex toxin.��


    ��For privately keeping and damaging important spoils of war, I was sentenced to capital punishment, unable to be purified in the mes, only able to sink into nightmares in filthy waters. Until the veryst second, I never revealed the secret in the cylinder, for the evesting vow was still in effect. She only unterally dissolved the vow after advancing to two wings, while the vow still constrained me.��


    ��In fact, if I had used the miracle Incinerate Remains, I could have temporarily suppressed all abnormal status effects, naturally breaking through the vow and exposing her pretense.��


    ��But looking at her, I gave up for some reason.��


    ��Perhaps I was misled by the plundering fire.��


    ��Final Destination: Damaged.��


    Sonya crossed her arms. ��The Temple of Plundering Fire�� Never heard of them.��


    ��Shouldn��t people normallyment on this sorcerer��s emotional experience?��


    ��Do you really want to hear it? I can��t lie right now.��


    ��Then let��s skip it.��


    ��What about the method to trigger the vortex that you deliberately skipped over?��


    ��I��m debating whether or not I should tell you.��


    Sonya was slightly surprised and tried to keep her mouth shut, looking very strained. Ashe almostughed out loud seeing the swordswoman like this.


    Hearing theugh, Sonya could no longer hold it in and whispered: ��You actually distrust me this much, wanting to keep it all to yourself? My value to you is even less than a vortex secret?��


    Ashe was somewhat shocked: ��So you��re mad that I distrust you keeping it to yourself, or mad that your position in my heart isn��t as high as you imagined?��


    Sonya��s eyes almost visibly filled with fury: ��I����


    ��Sorry, don��t answer that. It��s my mistake.�� Ashe quickly said: ��It��s not that I distrust you, but this secret is poisonous. Once you know it, you��ll be infected. I��m already poisoned, so I felt you didn��t need to know since we can enter the vortex together anyway.��


    ��Poisonous knowledge? I don��t believe that.�� Sonya said: ��I think you��re lying to me, big liar.��


    ��I have to say, you really are easy to get along with when you can only tell the truth.�� Ashe said: ��Then I��ll tell you, but don��t me me.��


    ��How could that be? If I get poisoned, I��ll definitely me you for not stopping me. If nothing happens, I��ll think you deliberately lied.�� Sonya spread her hands: ��Anyway, I won��t think it��s my fault.��


    ����You really are unreasonable.�� Ashe sighed: ��But the poison isn��t too serious for now. As the saying goes, we��re in the same boat, so I��d feel prettyme being the only one poisoned�� ��


    ��The method to trigger a vortex is: Find a schrly lifeform of the fish dragon species, grievously injure it, chase after it as it escapes without killing it, and let it die naturally from exhaustion. A vortex passage will form where its corpse lies, because����


    Ashe and Sonya said in unison: ��The sea of knowledge embraces its slumbering child.��


    Sonya looked at Ashe in surprise.


    She had blurted out that sentence almost reflexively, as if after hearing Ashe��s earlier exnation, new knowledge was bred from that knowledge and uncontrobly flowed into her mind!


    At the same time, Sonya felt a strange sensation, as if the entire world had changed even though nothing was different!


    She looked around to find what had changed. Soon her gaze focused on the seawater outside. After staring for a bit, she felt a surge of nausea��


    ��The toxicity of this hidden poison is that it makes us feel disgusted by water,�� Ashe said.


    He opened the Sorcerer��s Handbook of Aurora �C ��Operator Management�� and saw that both ��Apocalypse Observer�� and ��Death Maniac Swordswoman�� had an additional abnormal status effect.


    ��Vortex Toxin��


    ��Number of People Infected by Toxin: 131��


    ��Toxin Strength: 131%��


    ��Current Effect of Toxin: Disgust Towards Water (Enhanced effect upon reaching 300% strength, alleviated upon dropping to 100%, turns into a buff at 50%)��


    It was a very bizarre toxin, not damaging the body but twisting the soul. Most terrifying was that the more people who knew the secret, the higher the toxin strength, burdening everyone who knew!


    When Ashe told Sonya about the toxin, Sonya immediately scowled: ��Why didn��t you firmly refuse me earlier, you loudmouth!��


    She really lived up to her word and med him as she said she would. Although the straightforward swordswoman was easier to deal with, she also became much more unpleasant, like a hypocritical and tactless child.


    ��Wait, you said earlier that when less than 50 people are infected, the toxin bes a buff?�� Sonya suddenly said: ��Then we just need to take care of all the others who know the secret����


    She made a throat-slitting gesture. Ashe cowered back: ��Are you the wife who betrayed the axe-wielding sorcerer in the story?��


    ��I won��t rashly sell you out before you wrong me.��


    ��That truthful statement really doesn��t reassure me���� Ashe muttered.


    After this exchange, they understood why this secret was hidden inside the cylindricalbyrinth at all costs, and why the axe-wielding sorcerer was betrayed��because even if you could keep it secret, you couldn��t ensure others wouldn��t divulge it.


    Once divulged and spread, the toxin might reach a critical point and be nearly fatal, such as beingpletely unable to touch water, or even dying from shock upon contact.


    When it reached that point, the weak without survival means would die, quickly lowering the number of infected to a safe level.


    So the knowers were natural enemies of each other. Each knower had to try to eliminate the others as much as possible to lower their own risk of harm. The sorcerer��s wife betrayed him precisely for this reason, unterally dissolving the vow to decisively expose the axe-wielding sorcerer and reduce the number infected.


    But even if every knower actively kept it secret, the secret would still spread��like how Ashe and the others obtained simr intel from the sorcerer handbook.


    The virtual world was the graveyard of sorcerers. Death could not keep secrets.


    Therefore, by knowing this secret, Ashe had essentially taken deadly poison and set foot on a road of no return.


    If he did nothing, when the number of infected suddenly spiked one day, strengthening the toxin to a level he could not endure, he could onlyin ��why me?�� and ��how could this be?�� before perishing in the intense poison.


    But unexpectedly, Ashe did not feel much fear.


    Because he knew, all the troubles brought by the virtual world could be resolved with one method.


    From beginning to end, sorcerers only had one path to survival.


    ��So next we need to find a schrly lifeform of the fish dragon species.�� Ashe said. ��Only by bing stronger can we have a chance to alleviate the toxin��s power, or even directly eliminate it��like forcibly forgetting this knowledge. In short, we have to make good use of this intel we paid for with poisoning and convert it into our own strength as much as possible, constantly pressing forward, never stopping!��


    ��Isn��t that obvious?�� Sonya said, leaning against the boat. ��Isn��t that what we greedy sorcerers are like?��

 Chapter 91: Countdown to the Prison Break

    Chapter 91: Countdown to the Prison Break


    ��If hurt enough, slice open with a pair of hands, the curses of yesterday. When night falls awaiting daybreak, only scars remain����


    As the wake-up song sounded, the prison entered free activity time and all cell doors turned from red to green.


    Ashe went to the central hall and happened to see the light screen broadcasting the weather: ����the meteorologist has announced, April 21st will be cloudy turning sunny, with a significant increase in goblin fertility rates today����


    Death row inmates came and went in the cafeteria, business as usual. When Ashe entered, quite a few people greeted him proactively with rather respectful attitudes��having won two deathmatches consecutively and survived the Blood Moon Tribunal, the ��demon�� Ashe was now seen by the inmates as yet another powerhouse who could break through the prison floor.


    Ashe had just sat down when Igor took the seat across from him. They looked at each other without speaking, quietly finishing breakfast, then went up to the top floor Observation Deck. Langna and Ronald were already waiting for them.


    Except for those harboring ulterior motives who wanted to observe the waters, no one woulde up to the deck to bask in the morning sun. With just the four of them on the deck, Igor directly asked, ��Is the miracle ready?��


    Ashe clenched his fists and closed his eyes, recalling the feeling of resonating with the spirit. He gently exhaled, ��All I can say is I��ve done my best.��


    After many days of calibration and practice in the virtual world, Ashe had mastered the sh Me miracle and even seeded in getting it for free without spending any arcane energy in the virtual world. But he still couldn��t guarantee he could invoke the miracle 100% of the time. After all, the difference between reality and the virtual world could be as big as the one between a cafeteria and a restroom.


    Igor nodded equivocally and looked to Langna and Ronald, ��Having been locked up here for so long, can you still remember the fighting methods of sorcerers? If any problemse upter, you��ll have to take care of the troublesome ones.��


    ��I was admitted less than a month ago, no problem.��


    After two days out of sight, Ronald looked even more haggard. It wasn��t that he had be emaciated, but rather his whole being��his spirit, energy and aura��had visibly deteriorated. In Ashe��s words, ��he looked like a programmer who had been working 15 hours a day, eating, crapping and sleeping all in the office for a whole month.��


    But his low voice was full of unspeakable vitality, as if there was light in his pupils and a burning fire in his heart, as if the decaying body harbored a life about to be reborn through fire.


    So Ashe was even more worried.


    Generally speaking, ordinary people would call this state��the light before death.


    As long as he could make it through today�� Ashe��s mind was full of the coldness of capitalists who would exploit temporary workers to thest drop before discarding them.


    ��I��ve been here for years, so I really can��t say if I can regain my pastbat power.�� Langna said, ��But I��m a fistfighter, I haven��t neglected mybat skills even in here. Even if I can��t use miracles, just being able to invoke a spirit is enough to get me to 70% of my past strength.��


    Among physicalbat mages, especially unarmed ones like fistfighters, more or less all possessed spirits that could enhance their physical abilities.


    After all, real fights don��t follow rules. The opponent won��t go easy on you just because you only use your bare fists. On the contrary, they are more likely to bludgeon you down with a tailored weapon. Therefore, unarmedbatants must possess spirits that can make up for the deficit in weapons, either by enhancing defense or increasing mobility.


    As a Moonshadow werewolf, Langna��s physical abilities would rise quite a bit after transformation. With a spirit to boot, hisbat power in the cramped dark environment here would probably be the strongest on the team.


    ��Transport ships generally arrive in the morning. After offloading new inmates and supplies, they return to Caimon City��s Shattered Lake Harbor.�� Igor said, ��But there��s a detail��the ship crew and Blood Mad Hunters eat in shifts in the cafeteria.��


    ��Blood Mad Hunters are required during training to finish meals within 5 minutes max. Adding transit time, we can assume that when the second batch of Blood Mad Hunters appears in the cafeteria, there are less than ten minutes before departure.��


    ��That is, when the second batch of Blood Mad Hunters steps into the cafeteria, it��s the signal for us to act. We must purify the chips and change into medical crow suits within ten minutes, then use the medical ess directly to board the transport ship.��


    ��Understand?��


    The whole n was extremely crude and urgent. The slightest hup in any part would be total failure, and many sections relied heavily on luck. But Igor had somehow managed to cobble together a theoretically viable scheme in this near-wless Shattered Lake Prison, and Ashe��s group was quite impressed, all nodding with looks of admiration.


    ��Since that��s the case, let��s all make our final mental preparations and meet up early in the cafeteria for lunch.��


    Igor looked to Ashe, ��This is yourst chance to reconsider. You have the ability to survive in this prison, you could take a less dangerous path.��


    Ronald and Langna also looked to Ashe. They all knew Igor didn��t actually have a strong desire to escape, and didn��t know how Ashe had managed to manipte him.


    Ashe said, ��I cannot go gently into that good night.��


    Igor nodded thoughtfully, ��You mean your dignity cannot tolerate you clinging ignobly to life?��


    ��No, I mean if I stay here, I��ll definitely keep getting picked for the Blood Moon Tribunal until I die.��


    ��Maybe you should reflect on your past deeds, if you have to worry about retaliation even after being jailed.��


    Seeing Ashe��s determination unchanged, Igor also gave up thatst sliver of hope. He waved and left first��he needed to go take a bath and calm down.


    There was still an hour or two until noon. Ashe didn��t know what to do. He hadpletely mastered the Substitute, Sword Heart and Circte spirits, and could invoke them anytime. As for miracles, he didn��t dare practice randomly, because the sh Me miracle required a specific target. If Ashe identally purified someone else��s chip, triggering the prison��s defenses prematurely, he��d be waiting for Igor��s mocking to death.


    After wandering around aimlessly, Ashe found himself at the most familiar Deathmatch Society.


    A thought arose and he didn��t go into the Society, but found a dim entrance behind it instead. The surrounding sounds suddenly became very distant. The entrance was a heavy, pitch-ck iron door, exuding danger signals everywhere as if saying ��cowards dare not enter��.


    This was the infirmary.


    Ashe pushed the door open. The medical crow on duty at the front desk nced at him and said, ��Go to treatment room 1, your assigned medical crow wille get you.��


    Before he could even take out his ID tag [#222], how did the other know who his assigned medical crow was? Although it felt a bit strange, Ashe didn��t think much of it and directly headed into treatment room 1.


    Watching his retreating back, the medical crow at the front desk chuckled under the crow mask, ��Feel honored for your future.��


    After waiting briefly in the treatment room, medical crow [#222] came in through the side door. She tossed an apple to Ashe, ��Where are you hurt?��


    Ashe caught the apple and bit into it without wiping. ��I��m not hurt.��


    ��If you��re not hurt then why are you here? Although I hope you��vee for cosmetic surgery, judging by your past resistance, you probably haven��t corrected your cowardly aesthetic views yet. So you must be here for���� The medical crow held her hands contemtively, ��Bio-modification?��


    Ashe looked speechless, ��Don��t you think you��re overestimating my courage a bit too much?��


    ��There��s no need for courage in bio-mods! Nowadays it��s trendy to swap a hand, swap a leg, swap an eye, all very normal!�� The medical crow said in surprise, ��Could it be you��re a fundamentalist Celestialist? An obstinate anti-technology fossil?��


    ��What��s wrong with an original body that it has to be swapped?��


    ��Because it��s not good enough! Don��t you want to be more agile, stronger, better vision, more acute hearing?��


    ��I think my current body is adequate����


    ��We can also mod the lower body to enhance mating endurance and pleasure.��


    Ashe��s eyes lit up, ��Next chance I get I��ll consult you on the profound intricacies of bio-modification.��


    ��Although I��m delighted by your interest in bio-mods, I feel like your lower body may never get a chance to be useful in your lifetime����


    ��I��ve said many times I��ll definitely escape from here! I��ll definitely regain my freedom!��


    ��Even adding your unrealistic premise, I still have no ns to modify my conclusion��unless you��re willing to ept my hot stud transformation surgery! Consider it!��


    ��It��s not that I don��t believe in the power of hot guys, I just don��t trust you.��


    ��Hmph.��


    The medical crow sat on the edge of the bed, looking puzzled as she asked, ��Anyway, you have no issues, so why did youe to the infirmary? This is your first time taking the initiative toe here!��


    Indeed, previously Ashe had always been carried in, this was the first time he walked in on his own.


    ��I came��to chat with you! After all, death row inmates like me have plenty of free time.�� Ashe spread his hands helplessly.


    ��But I��m not free! You think I��m like you? I��m very busy okay, researching techniques, learning new knowledge, writing research papers��I don��t have that much time to chat with you! I��ll make an exception this once, but don��t do this again!�� The medical crow said indignantly, hands on her hips.


    Even with the crow mask and voice changer, Ashe could hear the joy in her tone.


    As expected, workers in any world have a strong desire to ck off. And the happiest part of cking off is gossiping with others.


    After the medical crow excitedly talked about her ��senior who always targeted her getting driven away for stealing things��, ��recent good luck in the virtual world��, ��eating two yolked eggs for breakfast�� and other happy news, Ashe suddenly changed the subject.


    ��Oh, I just realized you��re quite good-looking.��


    ��Huh?�� The medical crow froze, ��R-really? I��m not that good-looking��which part do you find good-looking?��


    It took a full five seconds before the medical crow reacted to what nonsense Ashe had just said.


    As she turned and carefully picked a scalpel from the tool box, Ashe felt impending doom��the person before him was capable of dissecting himpletely before sewing him back up again, all while grinding medical EXP!


    ��222, I don��t have much time left.��

 Chapter 92: This is the Request of My Lifetime

    Chapter 92: This is the Request of My Lifetime


    The atmosphere in the medical room became serious.


    ��Didn��t you survive the Blood Moon Tribunal?��


    ��Yes, but my ordeal is not over yet.�� Ashe said solemnly: ��My enemies are still eyeing me greedily, and will use any means to put me to death in this prison.��


    The medic shook her head: ��This is Shattered Lake Prison, where thew is upheld like the truth itself. No one can vite thew here.��


    ��But they can legally and procedurally put me in dire straits.��


    ��Then it can only mean that you deserve to be executedwfully and procedurally.�� The medic shrugged. ��It��s not that I don��t believe you are wronged. I also sympathize with what you went through. So I will pray for you too, pray that you find salvation in the divine kingdom of the Blood Moon Archon.��


    ��But there is only so much I can do for you. Anything more would be beyond my authority.�� She warned, signaling Ashe not to make any uwful requests.


    Ashe waved his hand: ��I��m not making any requests of you either. I also know my time is short, and execution is imminent�� So I just want to thank you properly.��


    ��Huh?��


    ��Medic [222], you gave me humane care, allowing me to feel a little warmth in this cold and heartless prison.�� Ashe said emotionally: ��Being able to meet you before I die, I have no regrets and can ept my fate.��


    ��I��m not as good as you say���� The medic murmured shyly.


    ��But between life and death there is great terror. In the deep quiet of night, I still can��t help curling up, gripped by unspeakable fear, unable to sleep at night, no appetite, living in dire straits every day.��


    ��I can help with that,�� the medic took out a gleaming silver syringe. ��I have strong sedatives that willpletely free you from your troubles. But they all have the same side effect, which is slowed thinking, simply put bing a bit dull-witted����


    ��So!�� Ashe quickly interrupted her: ��In order to spend my final days in peace, I hope you can apany me, medic.��


    ��Apany you? How?��


    ��Eating, sleeping, bathing and so on����


    ��No! Absolutely not!�� The medic stood up nervously, waving her hands again and again: ��I��m not saying�� There are rules and regtions! We medics are not allowed to enter the inmates�� activity areas or have too close contact with them! Yes! It��s not that I��m unwilling, it��s just really not possible!��


    Ashe heaved a long sigh��this sigh was genuine. Although this response was within Ashe��s ns, the medic��s swift and vehement rejection giving him no chance at all still made Ashe feel a little sad.


    Couldn��t she at least consider it for a bit? Or act more realistically?


    Even the crow mask couldn��t conceal her unwillingness!


    ��I also understand your difficulties. I don��t want to trouble you either, but I really need your care and warmth.�� Ashe blinked: ��I thought of a good idea.��


    ��What good idea?��


    ��You can give me your clothes, then I can take them as you, and be able to hug the warmth every night.��


    The medic was silent for a moment, took a step back, her voice trembling a little: ��You�� want to hold my underwear while sleeping��?��


    ��They don��t have to be so intimate!�� Ashe quickly exined: ��And I haven��t seen your underwear before, I can��t equate them to your avatar!��


    The medic finally understood: ��You want this crow uniform of mine?��


    ��Yes, yes, yes! Do you have a spare uniform?��


    ��I do have a spare for changing. But ording to regtions, I can��t give this uniform to others�� And you holding my crow uniform to sleep at night also sounds a bit����


    Ashe suddenly heaved a long sigh, his face dimmed: ��You��re right, I made an unreasonable request. You��ve helped me so much, I shouldn��t trouble you in any way����


    ��Someone like me doesn��t deserve a peaceful end����


    ��It was me harboring improper hopes, unwarranted wishful thinking����


    ��I��m sorry. Just pretend I never came by. Thank you [222], I won��t forget you����


    Although saying this, Ashe didn��t get up, just looked expectantly at the medic. The medic had no choice, clicked her tongue: ��Alright alright, I��ll give you my crow uniform, will that do?��


    Sess!


    Ashe was extremely delighted inside. He had set this up to get the medic to take the initiative to give him the crow uniform.


    After all, he would have to grab a crow uniform when escapingter, but he didn��t want to hurt the medic.


    Based on his moral values from his previous life, he still had some respect for the medical profession, although he couldn��t care less for survival, if it could be resolved peacefully he would still try to avoid conflict as much as possible.


    Luckily his rtionship with Medic [222] was still decent. It would be meaningless if he didn��t make use of this rapport at the appropriate time. So Ashe acted pitiful and pathetic, first making an unreasonable request to apany him, and when the medic rejected it, he asked for her clothes. Goingyer byyer, he finally broke open the medic��s defenses, luring her step by step into the abyss of crime.


    ��Oh, it seems I can��t.��


    Ashe became nervous: ��Why not?��


    ��I just took off my other uniform, it hasn��t been washed yet.��


    ��I don��t mind!��


    ��But I do! No, wait until I wash it then I��ll give it to you!��


    Ashe panicked: ��I actually prefer the original smell more. Just fulfill this wish of mine! This is the request of my lifetime!��


    ��No way, absolutely not!�� The medic shook her head again and again: ��Wait until I wash the uniform then I��ll give it to you.��


    ��How long will it take you to wash clothes?��


    ��Very quick. Theundry room has a dryer, it��ll be done in an hour at fastest.��


    ��Then hurry and go wash clothes. I��lle get it at noon.��


    Ashe pushed the medic to leave. The medic was baffled: ��Didn��t youe to chat with me? Didn��t you want me to apany you more?��


    ��Clothes can also chat with me, clothes can also apany me more. Apart from that, clothes have many other uses! Anyway go quickly!��


    The medic left in puzzlement to go back and wash clothes.


    On the Guanhai Skyview terrace, Igor stared at the ck dot on theke surface gradually getting bigger, his heart thumping like crazy, even getting goosebumps. He felt his face heating up, legs going soft, his whole mind speeding up.


    This was nervousness.


    This was fear.


    But it was also excitement.


    This was the reason why he hadn��t stopped even after earning so much money. That unease and restlessness before taking action was like an addictive drug, making him unable to quit. Next, he would deceive the entire prison, escaping in broad daylight.


    Just thinking that countless people would be shocked, angry, approving and afraid because of his feat, Igor couldn��t help but be excited. There was nothing more delightful to Igor than duping others!


    Right in Igor��s expectant and nervous gaze, a ship billowing thick smoke sailed towards Shattered Lake Prison, riding the wind and waves.


    However, Igor��s expression became more and more ugly and pale.


    There was nothing unusual about this ship��s hullpared to ordinary military vessels, the only weird thing was that the hull was covered by ayer of high-strength steel walls that just happened to envelop the entire ship, making the ship look like a solid bullet warship.


    That meant this ship had no deck exposed to sunlight at all. No area was ��outside��, all areas belonged to the ship��s interior!


    Just as Igor was baffled, the transport ship arrived at Shattered Lake, dropping anchor at the port. And the first to disembark the transport ship was a white-haired man wearing a dark red hunter uniform, with a hood, and a jet ck half-sleeve over his right shoulder.


    Seemingly noticing Igor��s gaze, he looked up and met Igor��s eyes. His expression didn��t change at all, and his blood-colored pupils under the hood pierced through Igor with a sharp gaze!


    Igor��s pupils contracted sharply.


    Heresy Half-sleeve!


    The hallmark of the Heresy Court��s Hallmaster was the jet ck Heresy overcoat. While the captains of the elite enforcement squads who fought on the frontlines, representing the Heresy Court��s prestige, wore the Heresy half-sleeve to disy their honor!


    The captains of these two squads, without exception, were all��


    Three-winged Saint Domain sorcerers!

 Chapter 93: Gerard Wessminster

    Chapter 93: Gerard Wessminster


    ��Well, well, if it isn��t tax bureau executive secretary Edmund! I told you that you would end up joining me here eventually. Brothers, this guy has a grudge against me. Don��t fight me for him. I��ll let you have thest 5 deathmatches, but the first 5 are mine to enjoy. No objections, right?��


    ��Tsk tsk, one big shot after another. So Archbishop Andrei��s Everlife Elixir club has been wiped out? The mayor is ruthless, leaving not even one alive, huh.��


    ��Caimon City has be Fernand Snow��s kingdom now.��


    In the central hall, the death row inmates clustered around, greeting the neer cheerfully. In contrast to the gloating seniors, the rookies were much calmer, going up one by one to press their fingers on the copper register as instructed by the guards.


    ��Strange, I didn��t get such a grand wee when I first arrived,�� mused Ashe Heath, who was observing from the side.


    ��That��s because you��re special,�� replied the necromancer Archibald Harvey, who had an uncanny habit of picking up Ashe��s threads of conversation as if they were old friends. ��As one of the Four Pirs of Evil, you��re the first such cult leader in a hundred years. The prison didn��t dare let you near the other inmates before fully modifying your permissions.��


    ��Modifying permissions?��


    ��You saw that Sinners�� Registry right? We have to press our fingers on it when we enter. That transfers jurisdiction over our permissions to the prison. They can then fully control our various permissions, like attacking, arcane energy output, etc.��


    ��Huh?�� Ashe was surprised. ��Weren��t those permissions already restricted when we were arrested?��


    ��Yes, but previously the Inquisition controlled our administrative permissions. They have to be transferred to the prison upon incarceration.��


    ��Why go through all that trouble?��


    ��It��s necessary. Firstly, if the Inquisition still held our permissions, they could remotely lift our restrictions. If something happened here, it would be bad for the prison, not the Inquisition. So both sides want the transfer of jurisdiction.


    ��Secondly, the Inquisition��s processors are too far from the prison. Over time, the restrictions could degrade.��


    Ashe was taken aback. ��Restrictions can degrade over time?��


    ��All shackles will eventually face the day of rusting away,�� Harvey philosophized. Then suddenly he walked out of the crowd and grabbed a lizardman by the cor. ��Habren, where��s Nalbel?��


    The lizardman��s scales paled at the sight of Harvey. ��Archibald, how can you remember me? You shouldn��t be able to remember me!��


    It took Ashe a moment to recall that Harvey��s full name was Archibald Harvey. He had only remembered thest name.


    But what did the lizardman mean by ��shouldn��t be able to remember��?


    ��I��m a necromancer. Adding a backdoor to a soul is easy for me�� Memories only fade, they never vanishpletely.�� Harvey red at the lizardman. ��Where is Nalbel!? Why isn��t she here with you!?��


    At first Ashe thought Harvey had a grudge against this Nalbel person �C this was a prison for the condemned after all. Wouldn��t one normally hope for their enemies to end up here?


    But the lizardman��s reply gave Ashe a whiff of melodrama. ��Why do you want to remember her��? You��re only making things hard for yourself.��


    ��She betrayed you all? She escaped? Or is she-��


    ��Dead. When Andrei fell, we were hunted during our escape. A shot pierced her head. Nothing could be done.��


    Harvey��s mouth twitched. ��You promised me. The boss promised me too. You would����


    ��The boss is dead too. I was the weakest, so I was caught first.�� The lizardman said, ��The Inquisition sent a whole enforcement squad�� Fernand Snow deliberately leaked our escape ns and hunted us down. We were just insects to be crushed along the way.��


    ��Why do I care so much, why do I care so much!�� Harvey��s face was livid, but his legs grew soft and he sank to his knees as his eyes reddened. ��Impossible�� It��s Nalbel, how could she just����


    No one pulled them apart, not even the guards intervened �C the chips restricted them to at most grabbing each other��s cors. They couldn��t actually fight.


    The drama was quickly forgotten, not even qualifying as gossip fodder. Ashe was curious about Harvey��s melodramatic past, but it was obvious that asking now would just get him challenged to a deathmatch. Seeing it was about time for lunch, he went to the cafeteria.


    Some of the crew members and blood mad hunters were already eating on one side of the cafeteria. The inmates automatically sat on the other side �C even the rowdiest knew better than to start anything here. They couldn��t make trouble and they couldn��t curse others out. Were they going to politely greet the blood mad hunters?


    Today��s rmended menu was red bean paste tbread, beastman cheese sd, and coconut tartlets. Ashe had just sat down when a schrly looking young man took the seat across from him.


    Ashe felt like he had seen this man during the registry. ��New arrival?��


    ��Yes, hello. I��m Baraka.�� The young man replied shyly.


    ��Hello, I��m Ashe.��


    After being here so long, Ashe had developed wariness. The shyer the outer appearance, the more wicked the insides tended to be. This meek young man was likely a ruthless renegade. ��What brought you here to eat?��


    ��Because�� it��s lunchtime now?��


    ��Shouldn��t you newbies be restricted to your cells on the first day, waiting for meals to be delivered?��


    ��No, after being shown our cells we could move freely. No restrictions.��


    Ashe understood now. Solitary confinement on the first day was special treatment for cult leader big shots.


    ��Were you also imprisoned for political struggles? To achieve political prisoner status so young, you have promising talent!��


    ��No no no, I��m actually�� a writer.��


    When speaking of his profession, Baraka became even more bashful.


    ����They��re that strict out there, that writing books gets the death penalty now? Politics? Obscenity?��


    ��Actually, I haven��t written yet.��


    ��Huh?��


    ��After finishing myst novel a few months ago, I came up with an amazing idea for my next book. I discussed it with my editor, but he said if I insisted on writing it, he would have no choice but to report me to the Inquisition. He suggested Ie here and write it in prison instead of getting the publishing house in trouble.��


    Ashe blinked. ��So you came?��


    Baraka nodded. ��After hearing my idea, the Inquisition sent a mnemosurgeon to examine my memories. I was convicted in tribunal of ��public endangerment�� and sentenced to redemption through the Blood Moon Tribunal to purify my thoughts.��


    ��Couldn��t you just not write it?��


    ��The mnemosurgeon found that I had no repentance at all. My memories were full of details about the new book. They believed that as long as I lived, I would find ways to write it out. And that is indeed the case �C I��m not a creator, merely a scribe. I can��t allow such an amazing story to rot away in my mind.��


    Ashe gave him a thumbs up. ��Go for it, I��ll support you! Does it have romantic content?��


    ��No.��


    ��Then I��ll support you in spirit. I don��t actually have much interest in books.��


    During their chat, Ashe finally saw Igor enter the cafeteria. He quickly returned his tray, dumped his uneaten food into the waste barrel, and hurried over to sling his arm around Igor��s shoulder. ��Had your meal? The blood mad hunters are almost done, the signal wille soon. Why aren��t Ronat and Langna here yet-��


    ��They��re noting.��


    ��Hm?��


    ��I told them the n is cancelled.��


    Ashe didn��t show any surprise or agitation. There was no confusion in his eyes either, only calm as he looked at Igor. He didn��t say a word.


    ��Ashe, you know the effects of our contract. I cannot go against your wishes unless absolutely necessary.�� Igor said, ��Moreover, I don��t truly resist deep down �C if I did, I could not have conceived a n I��ve been preparing for years.


    ��To me, this n is also a long-awaited stage, the final touch you contributed. To be honest, even without your wish, I likely would have gone along to help you scheme, unable to restrain myself.��


    ��Believe me, I want to leave this suffocating cesspool as much as you do.��


    Igor gripped Ashe��s shoulder. ��But it really won��t work today. The n must be cancelled.��


    ��Why?��


    ��Because every important step of the n has be impossible now. Too many special events happened this week that I didn��t ount for in my calctions. Reality deviated too far from what I envisioned.��


    Amotion came from the entrance as the first batch of blood mad hunters finished their meals and started leaving while the second batch entered the cafeteria.


    Ashe nced at them and sighed. ��The signal came.��


    Igor gently shook his head. ��That��s a danger signal�� You��ll see very soon �C the first unstable element that ruins the n.��


    Suddenly, all the blood mad hunters stood up and bowed their heads towards the neer. ��Captain!��


    ��Greetings, everyone.��


    The white-haired blood mad hunter in a ck sleeveless shirt nced at the inmates and smirked. ��Scum, good afternoon.��


    One aggravated inmate lifted his head. ��I��ll file aint with the Inqui-��


    ��It��s so rare I get to insult so many scum at once. I��ll dly ept the punishment, it��s just a month��s pay deducted per offense right? Well, that��s two months�� pay gone now.��


    The blood mad hunter snapped his fingers and sneered. ��But I like the number three, so let��s add one more �C scum, how does it feel to only be able to take my insults but not retort? Frustrating isn��t it, being angry yet unable to do anything? I just love seeing scum make those aggrieved, powerless expressions!��


    Another sullen inmate said, ��I��ll remember you. You had better-��


    ��You should remember me, because many of you are here because I caught you!��


    His eyes shed red as he casually nced around the cafeteria. His gaze was like sharp swords, chilling everyone itnded on. Ashe recalled their previous encounter even more vividly �C


    That feeling of a sword impaling his chest. It spread through his body once more.


    ��I am Inquisition blood mad hunter Gerard Wessminster, Hunter ID 307791.�� Gerard grinned mockingly. ��When you see the Blood Moon Sovereign, remember to send him my regards.��

 Chapter 94: Crisis!

    Chapter 94: Crisis!


    ��Gerard Wessminster, the three-winged Sanctum swordsman and Blood Mad Hunter����


    Ashe hid in the corner of the restaurant, observing the confident white-haired hunter with doubt and apprehension.


    He was no longer a newbie who had just crossed over into this world. Naturally, he knew that this white-haired hunter, who had made his crossing over experience awful, held an important position in this city.


    Single wing silver, double wing gold, triple wing sanctum, quadruple wing legend.


    Under the starry sky, legendary mages were the pinnacle, the top echelon of all forces, the limits of individualbat power. The triple wings sanctums were the pirs, often taking charge of important matters when legendary mages were engrossed in researching arcane arts and exploring the virtual world. Generally speaking, they held the greatest secr power and represented the highest level of conventionalbat power.


    This also showed that the Four Pirs cult Ashe thought Hesk had created was not just some amateur troupe. For the City of Caimon to send out Gerard, the Heresy Court��s star hunter, it was enough to prove Hesk was a high value target that could be used as a ��political achievement��.


    Compared to his status, Gerard��s strength was even more despairing. The hypothetical enemy in their original n was a double wing mage level Blood Mad Hunter, but now a sudden appearance of a triple wing Sanctum, Gerard alone was enough to wipe out Ashe and his gang.


    If the original n had a 30% chance of sess, now it was practically doomed. The transport ship could not return to Caimon City within 10 minutes, and the prison would definitely discover their jailbreak within 10 minutes �C hijacking the transport ship was part of the n, they could not avoid fighting the Blood Mad Hunter.


    Ashe sighed, ��Since it��s him, giving up on the n is inevitable. We��re just too unlucky.��


    ��No, it��s not just bad luck.�� Igor brought him to the Shattered Lake pier, ��Look.��


    Ashe looked at the bullet-shaped shippletely covered up, ��The shape of this ship�� is very streamlined!��


    ��This is no ordinary ship.�� Igor said, ��This is a mobile prison��they��re just about to board now.��


    In Ashe��s astonished gaze, the death row prisoners lined up near the pier, under the hunters�� watch, arrogantly crossed the yellow line and embarked the transport ship, leaving Shattered Lake Prison.


    The prison��s famous ��ck Beast�� Took, before boarding the ship, suddenly turned back and shook his fist at the prison,ughing loudly, ��Hahaha, old me is finally leaving this sh*thole!��


    The other death row prisoners looked at them enviously, but that yellow line drawn on the ground was an uncrossable chasm. They could only watch helplessly as others left while they themselves were not even allowed to get close.


    ��They��re volunteers!�� Ashe finally remembered the recent call for volunteers, ��The ship is here to transport them!��


    ��That��s the w in our n!�� Igor couldn��t help but bite his finger, ��Because this kind of thing is so rare, I didn��t take it into ount at all! So the ship that came this time is not an ordinary transport ship, but a ��Pig Cage��!��


    ��Pig Cage?�� This was the first time Ashe had heard of such a bizarre ship name.


    ��This ship will not return to Caimon City, but will head east along Shattered Lake directly to the Lakeside Warzone east of Caimon!�� There was frustration on Igor��s face, ��I should have thought of it earlier. Even if the mayor used benefits to persuade the orderly organizations in the council, they still wouldn��t allow death row criminals to return to the city districts, the risks are too great!��


    ��If the news leaked that death row criminals escaped trial, it would surely causerge-scale public opinion fermentation. The entire council would suffer!��


    ��So the only destination for those volunteers is the Lakeside Warzone responsible for suppressing the Abyss!��


    Ashe watched thest volunteer enter the cabin and said, ��So if we get on the ship too, it��d be like walking right into a trap, escaping from the prison to the Lakeside Warzone full of powerhouses?��


    Although Ashe still didn��t have a thorough understanding of the Blood Moon Kingdom, just piecing together the keywords ��suppressing the Abyss,�� ��Warzone,�� he could guess with his toes that it would not be a water park.


    ��No, we don��t even have a chance to get on the ship.�� Igor shook his head, ��There are also processors inside the ship that will automatically detect any living beinging on board. The moment unauthorized people like us get on the ship, rms will sound all over the ship and our locations will be marked!��


    Ashe was puzzled, ��Hold on, doesn��t that mean your n had no chance of sess from the start! If every ship has this kind of security system, we��d never be able to leave Shattered Lake Prison by ship����


    ��No, only special purpose ships like the ��Pig Cage�� would be equipped with processors. Most other means of transport do not have security systems.��


    ��Huh? Why? Are those processors for security checks expensive?��


    ��One, they are valueable. These processors are artificially crafted by mages and must be made manually. Two, detecting other��s chips without authorized permission is a serious illegal act.��


    Ashe blinked, looking confused for a moment.


    He touched the back of his neck and asked, ��Outside, checking chips is against the rules?��


    ��Yes, absolutely.�� Igor looked at him strangely, ��This kind of vition of privacy is a very serious crime.��


    Although Ashe also understood there must be many differences between inside and outside the prison, hearing that ��the outside world is a country that highly respects privacy,�� Ashe still felt Igor was messing with him.


    A ce that imnted controlling chips in people since young age, can check memories, abolished family institutions and hadpletely socialized upbringing, even turning capital punishment into a variety show, would it really respect privacy more than this prison that makes him poop in shackles!?


    He gave up discussing this matter and asked, ��Then how can this ship called the ��Pig Cage�� check every uploaders�� chips?��


    ��Because the ��Pig Cage�� is a punishing tool prepared for warriors.�� Igor exined, ��The ��Waterways Abyss�� suppressed by the Lakeside Warzone requires people to be sent to explore the deepyers periodically.��


    ��But the deeper one goes into the Waterways Abyss, the easier it is for mages to have mental breakdowns, all kinds of situations like losing sanity, self-harm, running away can ur.��


    ��Since almost no one is willing to take on this task, the warzone makes mistaken warriors who are being punished board the ��Pig Cage��. Many rules are added to their chips, allowing the ship��s processor to control them from self-harm, escaping, killing each other. Meanwhile, the processor is also responsible for detecting life forms on the ship. If any monsters sneak into the cabins, it will alert the warriors to clean them out.��


    ��When theyplete the task and return, their crimes will be erased and they can start with a clean te.��


    ��Even if the warzone feels it��s going overboard to transport death row criminals, Mayor Fernand Snow would surely still require them to dispatch a ��Pig Cage��!��


    Igor gritted his teeth, ��I knew exactly what kind of person Fernand Snow is�� He would definitely personally oversee matters concerning his future�� Every detail would be arranged to the highest standard!��


    Ashe respectfully said: ��You even fooled the mayor?��


    ��Investigated the n but gave up due to the miniscule sess rate and great risks.�� Igor murmured, ��If I knew I��d eventually end up imprisoned, I��d definitely have given it a try �C the most powerful figure I��ve scammed so far is just a councilor after all.��


    People scam for money, you scam for achievement points��


    Although Ashe didn��t quite understand what mayor, warzone, abyss meant, he could still tell from Igor��s implication: ��So you mean every part of our n now has unsolvable problems?��


    ��Just for this time.�� Igor said, ��The next blood moon tribunal is on the 1st next month. If we��re still going ahead with the n, it can only be scheduled for the 11th next month. But judging from Professor Sylin��s energy, I highly suspect you might get selected for the tribunal on the 1st����


    Suddenly!


    A light screen popped up in front of Ashe!


    ��Good afternoon everyone, this is Shattered Lake Prison Administration, I��m prison guard Nago McMin.�� Nago in the light screen said, ��Here to announce two notices.��


    ��First, there will be an extra Blood Moon Tribunal this month on the 27th, the list of names to be tried will be announced on the morning of the 27th.��


    ��Second, to set up the tribunal scene for the 27th, the Blood Mad Hunters need to stay overnight in the prison. We hope everyone will cooperate well with the Hunters�� work. Any enthusiastic people who assist the Hunters will receive contribution rewards of varying amounts.��


    When the light screen closed automatically, Ashe had not yet recovered from the shock.


    An extra Blood Moon Tribunal added?


    The Hunters staying overnight?


    ��Generally speaking, this extra tribunal that was just added should be prepared for those political criminals who have just entered prison.�� Igor slowly said, ��But I would not be surprised if your name gets selected for the tribunal as well.��


    Ashe��s expression turned ugly, ��It can��t be that vicious right?��


    ��When you think things are about to turn bad, it will definitely be even worse than you imagined.�� Igor said, ��This is the only profound lesson I taught my clients after scamming for so many years.��


    ��I know you often represent society to beat up rich people, no need to keep emphasizing your achievements to me.�� Ashe said irritably, ��At worst my name gets selected for the 25th tribunal, how could things get any worse?��


    Just then, Ashe suddenly felt the light around him dim, as if a tall figure behind him was blocking the light.


    ��Ashe Heath, were you watching the ship to the outside world because you want to escape prison?��


    Igor discreetly slipped away to the side.


    Ashe turned around, took a step back, and forced out a smile to the neer: ��Of course, which youngster in prison doesn��t want to escape?��


    ��That��s not necessarily true. Viins can also repent, scumbags can also change their wrongs. Giving you the right despair is the meaning of the Blood Moon Tribunal.��


    Gerard looked down condescendingly at Ashe, he nced at Igor and said lightly: ��Found a new friend? As expected of a devout follower favored by the Four Evil Gods, I highly doubt that if you stay here long, you��d turn the entire prison into a hotbed for evil gods.��


    ��I��m going to take a nap, Captain Gerard if you want to chat you can talk to Igor Bukin here, he��s very good with investments and finances, I��m sure you can gain something����


    ��Wait, Ashe Heath.�� Gerard stopped him, ��The prison ordered you guys to assist the Hunters right? I need you to assist me.��


    Ashe had a bad feeling: ��How to assist? You see I can��t lift my arms nor legs, just a useless titanium alloy scrap, usually only eating or sleeping, afraid I can��t meet your requirements����


    ��That��s great, you just happen to meet my requirements.�� Gerard snapped his fingers: ��Here��s the thing �C because there are too many prisoners, there are no extra dorms for us Hunters who came to help. As the team captain, I of course gave the singles to my team members, so I��ll have to squeeze in with the prisoners.��


    Ashe sucked in a breath, ��Sorry, I don��t know any flowers in this prison, can��t introduce you any. Why not consult Igor over there����


    ��No need for that.��


    The Hunter held down Ashe��s shoulder, the crimson pupils full of mockingughter: ��Ashe Heath, I don��t think you��d mind squeezing for a night with me right?��

 Chapter 95: I Will Watch Over You

    Chapter 95: I Will Watch Over You


    Cailleach, Swordflower College.


    As the three bright stars gradually sank in the west, a young professor walked steadily along the campus path. When he saw a beautiful young female student approaching, he immediately changed direction, trying to hurry away.


    ��Professor Liebrom����


    ��Miss Therave.�� The young professor stopped and said helplessly, ��I have to admit, your sincerity has moved me. After all, if you keep pestering me like this, I won��t have any reputation left. My strict and serious father even came to warn me specifically not to do anything that would damage Swordflower College��s reputation, such as getting entangled with female students.��


    Sonya��s eyes lit up. ��Then����


    ��But I really don��t have the authority to makest-minute changes to the emcee,�� Liebrom interrupted. ��Either you disappear before the party starts in half an hour, and I��ll initiate the emergency n if I can��t find you, at the cost of you getting a warning. Or you go directly to the principal �C if you can get the principal��s permission, the rules can naturally be bent for you. But without even giving me a ��suitable reason�� for cancelling your emcee duties����


    Sonya shook her head repeatedly.


    ��The principal is reclusive, and she��s a legendary four-winged sorcerer. I don��t dare go to her. What if I make her angry? Even Professor Trotzam won��t be able to protect me.��


    ��So you��re not afraid of making me angry?��


    Sonya immediately covered her mouth, but her voice still leaked out between her fingers. ��Because you��re just a two-winged alchemist who��s good at academic theory and research. Even if I offend you, it won��t affect my interests much.��


    After speaking, Sonya looked at Liebrom pitifully. ��Professor, I really have no choice. This is the truth, I can��t lie.��


    Liebrom was so angry his face turned rigid. He took a deep breath. ��Thank you very much for your honesty, Miss Therave. You��ve made me understand my true worth in the eyes of ordinary students, very enlightening.��


    ��But since you don��t dare go to the principal, you only have two choices left: fulfill your duties, or take a warning. It��s almost dinner time, please decide quickly. I��ll be waiting for you backstage at the party.��


    Watching Liebrom leave, Sonya was also helpless. She wanted to ask the Observer for advice, but remembered today was also the Observer��s action day. She didn��t want to disturb the Observer either.


    I wonder if the Observer has smelled the air of freedom yet��


    Sonya sighed dejectedly and returned to her dorm in low spirits.


    Just then Iris and the others returned from dinner. Seeing Sonya, they were greatly surprised. ��Why are you still here? People from Trinity College are already at the school gates. Hurry and change into your dress and put on makeup!��


    ��I don��t want to go.��


    ��What��s with this childish temper? If you��re absent, it��s not just your own face you��re damaging, but Professor Trotzam��s face and Swordflower College��s face too. Don��t think you can do whatever you want just because you��re a genius at swordsmanship!��


    Even Iris was shocked. As roommates living under the same roof, they naturally knew Sonya had been acting very strange these past few days. But they didn��t expect it to be this bad.


    This was a social mixer between the two schools!


    The mixer was not just a simple party. Under the gazes of the stars, both schools would send their best students topete in a ��friendly�� match �C it was actually the annual prelude to the Cailleach Intercollegiate Competition, where everyone got to see the rosters of the other schools��petition teams this year, and roughly gauge the strength of theirpetitors.


    Although sorcerers focused onbat weren��t as important in today��s society, with production-type mages gradually gaining more influence, and schools reducingbat curric while adding more production-focused subjects, students were also more interested in researching spirits, miracles and spell systems with production value.


    Even so,bat-capable sorcerers could still obtain the most resources and respect!


    This was not because people feared the violence of mages, but because for mages,bat ability equaled potential! The more adept atbat a mage was, the more they could gain in the virtual world, the farther they could go, the higher their ceiling!


    Among single-wing mages, the number of those specialized in production exceeded those focused onbat.


    But by the time they reached two wings, the number ofbat mages far outstripped production mages.


    And if it came to three wings, even mages who specialized in production would definitely have a wlessbat system, or they wouldn��t even be able to survive and adventure in the virtual world!


    To encourage mage apprentices to improve theirbat ability, the Cailleach Intercollegiate Competition was thus born. Now in its 167th year, it had long be the highest rated show across Cailleach, even the whole Starfields.


    For mage apprentices, being able topete and ce in the Intercollegiate Competition was the fastest way to make a name for oneself!


    As a prelude to the Competition, the importance of the social mixer naturally rose as well. And with the mixing being with Trinity College this time, they couldn��t be the slightest bit sloppy!


    Yet Iris saw Sonya still lyingzily on the table not moving. She realized this country bumpkin had really gotten herself into trouble.


    ��Adele, go dig through her closet and get out the custom school dress. Ingritt, hold her still, I��ll put on her makeup.��


    ��Roger!�� ��Oh.��


    Adele and Ingritt followed orders. Sonya also let them fuss over her without resisting.


    In her heart, she was still conflicted, unable to judge whether ��telling the truth at the party�� or ��getting a school warning�� would have worse consequences.


    If the ��school warning�� was -100 points, then the ��attending the party�� would be between 0 to -1000 points.


    Perhaps Sonya could keep things within reasonable bounds and perfectly fulfill her emcee duties. But it was also possible she��d spout madness, offending all the professors from Swordflower and Trinity and bing the worst student in history.


    ��Haven��t you been looking forward to this chance?�� Iris asked puzzledly as she put on Sonya��s fake eyshes. ��We signed up together two months ago, stood out from over a hundred female mage students, and you finally won the final selection, beating me and the other seniors. It was hard-earned, so why are you giving it up?��


    ��You know the Intercollegiate Competition emcees are often selected from the party emcees, so you and I both valued this chance so much. If we can really be emcee this year, just that on our resume would be enough to apply for TV host jobs. Not to mention the exposure from appearing on screen in front of millions�� There��s no morefortable path than this!��


    ��Although you��re Professor Trotzam��s research apprentice now, you don��t only want to be a mage who practices swordsmanship all day, right?��


    ��What��s wrong with being a swordsmage?�� Ingritt said unhappily.


    ��Of course it��s good for you, Ingritt. One, you��re not social. Two, you don��t like the limelight. Being a swordsmage is indeed the mostfortable, happiest choice for you.�� Iris put on Sonya��s eye makeup. ��But Sonya, you and I are not so simple.


    ��Dazzling, the focus of all eyes, fawned over and cheered�� First bing famous in school, then acting in shows, releasing albums���� Iris��s mouth also curled up slightly. ��Bing like Datura Rose, the brightest star in the sky.��


    Sonya blurted out, ��How did you know Datura Rose is my favorite?��


    Iris retorted, ��Who doesn��t like Datura Rose?��


    Datura Rose Leyna, the most famous actress in the Starfields. She started acting in shows since her teens, almost every one bing a ssic, like ��The Queen��s Return��, ��Gorgeous Rebellion��, ��Don��t Apologize to Strangers��, and other shows that are still heavily re-run every year. She��s won the ��Holy Grail for Best Actress�� five times so far,uded as the ��Number One Beauty Under the Stars��.


    Not only that, she was also a powerful mage. The newsst year that she��d entered the Saint domain at three wings caused cheers across Cailleach.


    Some rich nobles even extravagantly spent a fortune to hire mages tounch fireworks into the Cailleach sky for three consecutive days. During those days, whenever the Cailleach residents stepped outside and looked up, they could see the words ��Congrattions to Datura Rose on entering the Saint domain.��


    For Sonya, Datura Rose was undoubtedly her most beautiful aspiration in childhood.


    As a little girl, her only entertainment outside of studying was watching the Meteor Channel. When she saw Datura Rose��s dazzling performance in shows, saw Datura Rose go on stage to ept awards, saw Datura Rose singing on stage, it gave her unlimited motivation.


    Back then, she didn��t even dare hope that she could be like her idol. But she knew that if she didn��t work hard at learning, she wouldn��t even have a chance of getting close to the limelight.


    Iris was right. Sonya did not want to just be a swordsmage.


    Power was important, but it wasn��t everything to her, not even her goal �C just a tool.


    Although no longer a child, Sonya��s desires were still so simple: she wanted to step into the limelight, she wanted to be a movie star, she wanted to sing, she wanted to dazzle, she wanted to enjoy the envy and admiration of countless strangers��


    She also wanted to be someone else��s aspiration.


    Sonya took a deep breath. ��Thank you, Iris.��


    ��You��ve gotten a lot more direct recently, it��s kind of disgusting,�� Irisughed.


    ��But why are you persuading me like this?�� Sonya asked. ��Seeing me about to miss this chance, shouldn��t you be gloating in secret, then go tell our other ssmates to mock me?��


    Ingritt��s mouth twitched slightly. Adele snorted, then covered her mouth to muffle herughter. Iris was a little embarrassed and pursed her lips. ��I didn��t�� Didn��t you also mock me openly and secretly after winning the selection?��


    Suddenly going into rehashing old ounts, Iris quickly took stock of her ammunition, ready to pull out even older cases to shut Sonya up the moment she retorted��


    ��Because I can only interact with you as an equal by demeaning you.��


    Stunned by her own words, even Sonya was shocked into silence. The dorm instantly fell into an awkward quiet.


    Iris was also rendered speechless for a time by Sonya��s words, subconsciously blurting out what she��d prepared to say: ��You, you also seduced my admirers����


    ��Because I wanted your attention. I hoped you would look at me, I wanted to keeppeting with you. I��d be very lonely if you went and fell in love.��


    Iris listened dumbfounded.


    ��I��m sorry, I���� She didn��t even know why she was apologizing. ��Then why were you against me when we first enrolled? I wanted to be friends with you too. If you hadn��t rejected my goodwill repeatedly, I wouldn��t have����


    ��Because you were from a noble family, grew up rich with a carefree childhood. While I was a country bumpkin from a small town, I had nothing. I envied you to the point of inferiority. Your goodwill felt like charity to me then, so to protect the little dignity I had left, stubbornness was my only defense mechanism.��


    By now, Sonya was utterly defeated.


    This was too awkward. Even bedwetting as a kid wasn��t this awkward.


    She no longer had a ce in Swordflower College. She now hated that she couldn��t immediately shoulder a train and escape back home.


    This absolutely wasn��t the truth. The Observer was controlling her mouth!


    It didn��t count, this absolutely didn��t count!


    After a long silence, Iris suddenly said, ��Alright, let��s change clothes. No time to eat, we��ll head straight to the party venue.��


    Sonya was pulled out of the dorm. As they went downstairs, Iris suddenly moved closer and whispered to her.


    ��I will watch over you.��

 Chapter 96: Ashe Heath Must Die

    Chapter 96: Ashe Heath Must Die


    Backstage at the Starfall Hall, Sonya looked over the cue cards rehearsing her lines forter, but she couldn��t help ncing towards the back door, only to be stopped by Iris.


    ��The restroom isn��t this way!��


    ��I think taking a warning would be better for me!��


    ��Didn��t you make up your mind just now? Why are you backing out again?��


    ��Because I realized I��m not as confident as I imagined. I��m scared!��


    Just then, a handsome young man in a dark blue suit walked over to greet Sonya, ��Miss Therave, good evening. Can I help you with anything?��


    ��Mr. Cage, good evening.�� Sonya quickly greeted, ��You came at the right time. I want you to stop my roommate Iris because she��s preventing me from running away.��


    This young man was Sonya��s co-host, Acenuth Cage, a second year windmage, known as the ��sword grass�� of the second grade. His handsome looks even made the female students form a fan club for him voluntarily.


    If it wasn��t for Felix��s undercover crackdown, he would undoubtedly be the public enemy of all male students on campus.


    ����I��m afraid I can��t join in thedies�� game as a gentleman.��


    Acenuth smiled and said, ��Professor Lithrom told me to remind you there are ten minutes left before the event starts. Please take care of your personal issues quickly and get ready behind the curtains. This is our first time working together. If I make any mistakes, please bear with me Miss Therave. I hope we can be friends after tonight.��


    Sonya shook her head, ��Don��t worry, I will definitely make big news that you can��t smooth over. I hope you won��t hate me to death after tonight.��


    The other party was stunned for a moment, ��Miss Therave, you really have��quite the sense of humor. I��ll wait for you then.��


    After Acenuth left, Sonya pleaded, ��Let me go, Iris. I��m really scared. My heart is pounding like crazy. I��m sure I��ll cause big trouble!��


    ��No way!�� Iris shook her head repeatedly, ��What about your aspirations? Don��t you want to be the next Dahlia? Are you willing to just be a swordsmaster from now on?��


    ��I understand all the reasoning, and I know I��ll regret it after I leave, but I still want to go!��


    As the two tangled, Ingritt and Adele came in through the back door. Adele excitedly said as soon as she entered, ��A star fell halfway in the sky outside, go take a look!��


    Seeing Sonya who looked like she was about to cry, Ingritt asked, ��What��s wrong with her again?��


    Iris helplessly said, ��She��s getting cold feet and wants to run away again.��


    ��How strange. The Sonya I know is a swordsmaster who dares to challenge Felix and Leone,�� Ingritt thought for a moment and suddenly pped her hands, ��I got it. Sonya is the impulsive type who performs better the more nervous she gets. Now we just need to push her on stage.��


    As the number one fan who witnessed Sonya��s rise all the way, her words were unanimously approved. So Sonya was pulled to the preparation area behind the curtains where Professor Lithrom and others in charge of the event were waiting.


    Seeing Sonya arrive, Lithrom nodded slightly and turned to the staff, ��Get ready to raise the curtains, let��s begin.��


    At this point, Sonya had no way to back out.


    She took a deep breath, smoothed out the wrinkles on her dress, and nced at Acenuth. She said, ��Later, you try to take the spotlight by yourself as much as possible. Don��t interact with me too much. Remember my advice �C the more I talk, the more likely something will happen.��


    This was the first time Acenuth had heard such a request.


    He was also the MCst year. His partner at the time tried every means to steal his thunder �C interrupting, ad-libbing,peting for attention. Acenuth was worried that it might be her again this year, but instead it was a first-year junior.


    His greatest expectation of Sonya was just some basic cooperation. He didn��t expect Sonya to voluntarily give way. It made him feel quite strange �C in principle, every MC of the event wanted to be the League��s MC. So they had to demonstrate their abilities as much as possible at the event for the professors to recognize and rmend them.


    Could it be that Sonya simply came to be an MC for fun? Or did she just apany her friend to the audition and ended up being selected herself, so she wasn��t enthusiastic?


    Various thoughts shed through Acenuth��s mind, but he nodded slightly, ��I will try my best to meet your requirements.��


    Lithrom said, ��The curtains will open in ten seconds, everyone get in position. The stage is in your hands now, remember to turn on the pickups.��


    Acenuth walked onto the stage first. Seeing the stage she had long awaited, Sonya��s heart suddenly calmed down.


    ��Viewer, are you there?��


    Sonya knew there would be no response, but for some reason, she suddenly felt full of courage. Her brows rxed, the corners of her mouth curled up slightly, and her eyes brimmed withughter.


    Viewer, are you fighting alone too?


    If I really mess up, you have topensate me properly!


    ��Doo doo loo~��


    With the orchestra��s tune, the lights came on and the curtains opened.


    Facing the eyes of students and teachers from both schools, Sonya fully got into character.


    ��Ladies and gentlemen, good evening. I��m your host for tonight��s event, Acenuth Cage.��


    ��And I��m your host, Sonya Therave.��


    Shattered Lake Prison, Ashe��s dormitory.


    The white-haired hunter Gerard sat on the edge of the bed, holding a book he borrowed from the Talent Library �C Introduction to Simted Lightning Spells, 3rd Edition �C clearly a textbook Ashe couldn��t get through after starting college.


    After reading for a while, Gerard rubbed his eyes and turned to look at Ashe, who was also reading while sitting against the headboard.


    However, unlike him, Ashe was reading aic book titled I��m Sorry for Saying I Like MILFs.


    It was said to be a popr romanticic in Caimon City that even Emma would read during her spare time.


    Theic was about to be adapted into a TV drama. The actor ying the male lead Ron was actually from the same research institute as Gerard �C except the other guy was a universally beloved movie star, while he was the feared Blood Mad Hunter that made coffins open by themselves when he appeared.


    Noticing Gerard��s gaze, Ashe raised his eyebrows, ��Want to take a look? I highly rmend thisic. Its depiction of human emotions and rtionships transcends race and time. But it��s best to read alone in bed, otherwise you��ll sometimes twist in bed feeling sweet, and sometimes get stomach cramps feeling sad.��


    ��I thought you were just pretending for my benefit.�� Gerard said, ��It��s hard to imagine you reading romanceics.��


    ��What��s my image in your eyes then?��


    ��Probably a madman constantly thinking about how to overthrow the Blood Moon, I thought you��d be reading books like Crowds and Power, How to Cause a Virtual Storm with Bare Hands, Criminal Law �C things that aid your career.��


    ��I already said I have amnesia. I��m not some cult leader.�� Ashe sighed, ��Now I just want to face the ocean, spring breeze, and live a peaceful life.��


    ��Interesting.�� Gerard smiled, ��You don��t seem afraid of me. I thought you wouldn��t dare to return to your dorm tonight and would hide in someone else��s room instead.��


    ��Why should I be afraid? You won��t do anything to me anyway.��


    ��That��s not true. I have no restrictions, no prohibited actions at all. In other words, I can take your head anytime I want.�� Gerard reached for the longsword leaning against the bed.


    ��Then I have even less to fear.�� Ashe was very calm, ��Since you can make a move anytime, and the prison isn��t big, I can��t escape if you really want to harm me. Staying in my own dorm at least allows me to die with some dignity.��


    ��Moreover, I don��t believe you will take action against me. I��m just a death row convict pursued by the Blood Moon Tribunal now, struggling to survive every day. You gain nothing by killing me, so I can��t think of a reason you must kill me.��


    Gerard touched the hilt of the sword, then let go.


    ��Indeed, that is also the right approach for scum �C ughter cannot create value. Rather than swiftly and decisively killing you all, it��s better to let you rot and be maggot-ridden in this prison, entertaining those citizens who are disturbed and frightened by you like clowns until you die in the most unsightly way, squeezing out your value topensate for the sins youmitted.��


    ��To be honest, I quite agree with this approach.�� Ashe criticized, ��It would be even better if I wasn��t a permanent resident here.��


    ��But you seem very rxed.�� Gerard��s pupils shed a bloody light, ��This isn��t my first time here either �C some people I just caught not long ago, they became very unstable, hysterical, remorseful, begging for mercy��all kinds of states, but this kind of natural ease like yours, this is the first time I��ve seen it.��


    ��Could it be that you already have a way to escape from this prison?��


    Ashe held Gerard��s gaze. ��Yes, I��m waiting for you to realize you caught the wrong person and let me out in good conscience.��


    Gerardughed loudly, took out a bottle of wine from his arms and drank a mouthful. ��I did feel like I might��ve caught the wrong person, but hearing you say that puts me at ease.��


    ��Huh?��


    ��I didn��t expect that you really do have a way to break out!��


    ng!


    In the instant Gerard shed his sword at him, Ashe almost used Self-Harm Miracle to take out his belly sword and fight desperately with Gerard. But he endured the urge �C even if he used Self-Harm Miracle to lift the chip��s restrictions, with his Single-Wing Silver strength, Gerard could crush him effortlessly with hands and feet tied!


    The de kissed Ashe��s neck, leaving a shallow cut.


    Gerard��s nose twitched, and the crimson in his pupils grew deeper.


    ����.What makes you draw that conclusion?�� Ashe asked.


    ��Intuition.�� Gerard said lightly, ��And I guessed your escape method too.��


    Ashe��s heart thumped rapidly �C don��t tell me! They hadn��t even taken action yet and were already seen through?


    Was this the strength of the Blood Mad Hunters�� Commander, a Three-Wing Saint mage?


    Or was there a mole?


    ��You must be nning to have the Four Pirs rescue you, right?��


    Ashe��s eyes widened, his mouth opened slightly, with an expression of utter disbelief, like seeing someone fake an ident by falling down 10 meters away from a car.


    After a brief silence, he said with difficulty, ��I didn��t studyw, but I think criminal litigation here should follow ��presumed innocent�� right? Even if you want to wrongfully charge me, at least give some evidence so I can die content, instead of convicting me based on your guesswork!��


    ��Commander Gerard, do you have to make things difficult for an insignificant prisoner like me when you��re so busy?��


    ��Because I came specifically for you, Ashe Heath.��


    Ashe was stunned.


    Gerard said, ��Someone told me you��ll try to escape. He hopes I can stop your actions and eliminate this disaster at its root��He even called in a huge favor just to get me toe to Shattered Lake.��


    ��Killing prisoners is a grave crime. Apart from a handful of people in Caimon City, no one can be exempt from this crime, and I��m one of them.��


    That ubiquitous name almost instantly jumped out in Ashe��s mind. A chill swept through Ashe��s whole body, the killing intent from the de made him feel as if he had fallen into an ice cer.


    But he still asked, ��Who was it?��


    ��Sylin Dole.�� Gerard said solemnly, ��He said the remnants of the Four Pirs heretical cult must not continue existing in this world.��


    ��For stopping the Four Pirs, for the glory of the Blood Moon, Ashe Heath must die.��

 Chapter 97: Can’t Hold It In Anymore

    Chapter 97: Can��t Hold It In Anymore


    Swordflower College, Starfall Hall.


    ������To vigorously promote the positive spirit of adventure, foster a healthypetitive environment, and facilitate friendly exchanges between Swordflower College and Trinity College, we now hand over the stage to the outstanding students of both schools to engage in a friendly match under the watchful eyes of the stars.��


    As Sonya��s voice rang out, the domed ceiling of the hall rumbled open. The inside of the dome was lined with mirrors that cleverly reflected the starlight like spotlights into the hall, bathing everyone in a faint veil of stardust that was even more dazzling than the indoor lighting from earlier.


    In the Starchild Realm, all important events had to be conducted under the starry sky. If the day with its zing sun was ��work time��, then the starry night was ��y time��. Of course, ordinary people could hardly keep up with such a taxing schedule �C only sorcerers who could rest in the Virtual World had the luxury of such revelry.


    Moreover, starlight was more than just beautiful to look at. It represented the blessing of the Starchild Archon. Therefore, sorcerers who entered the Virtual World, battled, studied, and trained at night would receive additional benefits, however small, that were still better than nothing.


    ��Now, before the stars withdraw their light, let us invite Professor Orleon from Trinity College and Professor Nidhogg from Swordflower College to share their thoughts on the friendly match,�� Assunu said.


    A school social event would never feature the attendance of legendary-tier sorcerers, for their time was far too precious to waste on such trivial matters. Thus, Trinity College had sent their representative, Weaponmaster Orleon, while Swordflower College had dispatched Rhythm Swordsaint Nidhogg.


    Nidhogg nced at the Trinity College students and said tly, ��Leone, make it quickter. I��m in a hurry to get to the Virtual World and have no interest in lingering at a boring event like this.��


    The burly, hairless Orleon let out a cold snort. His body was etched with all sorts of tattooed patterns. Though Sonya could not decipher their meaning previously, her battles against thunder mages in the Virtual World had taught her that Orleon��s tattoos were likely amplifiers for lightning spells.


    Yet despite his gruff appearance, Orleon spoke with unexpected courtesy. ��I hope tonight��s friendly match allows the outstanding students of both schools to gain something. I look forward to the performance of Swordflower��s students, but I also believe in the capabilities of mine own. I n on taking a research apprentice this year, so if you don��t do your best, that spot may just go to one of Swordflower��s students!��


    The Trinity College students nodded lightly at Orleon, their expressions nonchnt. Clearly, they did not think much of Swordflower College.


    ��Haha, the two professors are really sparking things up! Not only has Professor Orleon put up the incentive of a research apprenticeship, but to think the Weaponmaster hasn��t taken on a new apprentice in five years. The ones he trained himself all advanced to Two-Winged before graduation, so tonight��s friendly match will surely be riveting!��


    Assunu smoothly redirected the two professors�� words, rounding things off so seamlessly that no one could find fault. He nced at the dome that would unfold in a few more seconds and casually turned to his co-host. ��What do you think, Therave?��


    Sonya, who had been maintaining a professional smile, could no longer keep a straight face. She looked at Assunu with utter horror in her eyes.


    Weren��t we supposed to interact as little as possible, and let me not make a fool of myself since you wanted the spotlight?


    Assunu could hardly be med, of course. He thought Sonya was just being polite earlier, and it would look bad if he hogged the stage alone. The two hosts were meant to bounce off each other to liven up the atmosphere �C he couldn��t possibly leave Sonya standing dumbly aside.


    Moreover, he had already taken over the conversation and said all the proper things. Getting Sonya to chime in for a bit shouldn��t be asking too much, right?


    Soon, Assunu would realize just how much he had overstepped �C tremendously so. If he couldpare it to the currently popr drama, Love Beyond Time, it would be ��I wish I could run back five seconds and mp my mouth shut��.


    ��I think Professor Nidhogg is a person of high emotional intelligence.��


    ��Oh? Why do you say so?��


    ��Because despite saying such low EQ things here, offending both Trinity��s professors and students, and making us event organizers feel irritated, it shows we��re all beneath him to warrant the use of EQ. Therefore, the people he does employ EQ with must be of very high standing. So he��s clearly a person of high EQ. ��


    Sonya went on fluently, ��Perhaps it��s only at events with the principals present that we��d get to witness Professor Nidhogg��s high EQ side. So in summary, Professor Nidhogg��s use ofnguage is rather rotten, just like hisck of grace.��


    Silence.


    Apart from the sounds of the dome opening, barely a murmur could be heard in the hall. Despite not being a public event, attendance was far from paltry. One-third of the professors and outstanding students from each grade were gathered.


    They gaped wordlessly at Sonya on stage, though no one dared to specifically turn their heads to see Nidhogg��s reaction in the furthest corner.


    Behind the stage, Iris and the others who were sneaking peeks were also stunned speechless. They had already guessed Sonya��s poor performance tonight, but still did not expect her to do something like this.


    Even Assunu was momentarily taken aback, his mind turning to mush as he failed to conjure up a clever quip to follow Sonya��s words.


    ��Hahaha!��


    Orleon��s thunderousughter rang out as he apuded. ��Well said! Swordflower College is truly brimming with talent!��


    ��Trinity College is no pushover either,�� Sonya replied. ��With an esteemed professor like you who��s full of titudes, Trinity has really struck gold. The excellent matching system of Cailleach cannot be praised enough for bringing together exemry individuals like Professor Orleon and Professor Nidhogg.��


    ��How am I full of titudes?��


    ��Just now, you said you��d take on a research apprentice from Swordflower if we beat your students. Isn��t that just lip service? Your previous three apprentices were all Trinity��s best and brightest. You��re clearly just paying us lip service with no intention of actually taking on a student from another school.��


    ��I meant every word!��


    ��Then give us a written oath! Put it down in binding words!��


    Some students looking to stir up trouble also shouted, ��Yeah, write it down!��


    The Trinity College students immediately retorted, ��On what basis should he write it down just because you say so?��


    Seeing the event rapidly deteriorating into a marketce squabble, Assunu suddenly realized this was perhaps the greatest challenge he had faced as a host.


    He decisively yelled, ��Let��s now wee Lorein Zell from Swordflower College��s Swordsmanship Department and Riggan Carroll from Trinity College for the first duel of the friendly match!��

 Chapter 98: An Uninvited Guest

    Chapter 98: An Uninvited Guest


    As Asunu spoke, he quickly pulled Sonya to sit down at thementary booth nearby.


    Sonya obediently kept her mouth shut. As long as no one asked her any questions, she could control herself from speaking up.


    At that moment, she felt both worried and relieved �C worried because she had offended two professors in a row, but relieved because the ones she had offended were ��Rhythm Swordsaint�� Nidhogg �C Trotzam had always been at odds with Nidhogg, so Trotzam would surely protect his little student.


    As for ��Weapon Master�� Aurelion, it was even simpler �C as long as Sonya didn��t go to Trinity College, how could Aurelion cause her trouble across schools? The only problem was her path as a host and her dream of bing a star, which would likely end here��


    At that time, the two contestants had already walked onto the stage. Lorein was the senior who had bullied Sonya earlier, a rtive of Sylvia��s.


    Although his strength was inferior to Leone��s, Lorein was still a member of the Swordflower Competition team, with absolutely formidable capabilities. Back then, he had been more than a match for Sonya and Felix together.


    ��Lorein, I heard you��ve already fallen to the point of bullying first-year freshmen.�� Li Gang took out a sinister-looking longbow: ��Taking out your temper on your juniors when you haven��t made any progress yourself, Swordflower College sure has great academic ethics.��


    ��Li Gang, don��t forget who snapped your bowstringst time.�� Lorein gripped his sword with one hand, firing back.


    ��I also haven��t forgotten whose ass I shot an arrow into.��


    Asunu lowered his head to look at the materials and said, ��The two contestants havepeted against each other inst year��s league as well, so they must have made more progress after a year. Miss Therave, what do you think?��


    Asunu was not repeating his mistake here, but the script called for Sonya to introduce the spirit beasts and past records of Lorein and Li Gang here. Therefore, he chose to trust Sonya one more time.


    But he forgot that the script here said ��please introduce the two young mages��, rather than ��what do you think��.


    Faced with Sonya��s helpless gaze, Asunu knew he had made a mistake again.


    ��I think they��re both wasting everyone��s time trash talking each other, why not just start fighting and let everyone have some fun?��


    The corner of Lorein��s mouth twitched as he decisively struck first, kicking off and charging forward in a straight line.


    Li Gang calmly sidestepped, conjuring a silvery magic arrow from his hand onto the bowstring in a sh, instantly switching offense and defense!


    ��The Sword Miracle Flowing Star Thrust, beautiful! But contestant Carroll��s movements didn��t slow down one bit either. As we all know, archery has always been a groupbat art, so his willingness to rely on archery in a one-on-one match shows Carroll is highly adept at close-quartersbat. Contestant Zi will have to be extra vignt.��


    ��Ouch, the sh Sidestep Arrow is Carroll��s specialty miracle, shooting out a heavy and powerful arrow in the instant of evasion. Contestant Zi��s defense spirits have all been forced back!��


    ��A stunning preemptive strike! What a pity, Carroll neutralized the offensive with one arrow and widened the distance again!��


    After providing continuousmentary for a while, Asunu couldn��t help but feel a little thirsty. Before drinking water, he reflexively asked, ��What do you make of the current situation?��


    Mercifully, this was purely Asunu��s professional reflex �C when drinking water, he had to get someone else to fill in to make up for the gap.


    ��Lorein loses more than he wins, he��s a speed type yer, while his opponent is an archer adept at protracted battles and keeping his distance. But Li Gangcks instant explosive miracles. As long as Lorein dares to sacrifice an arm to block an attack, he��ll have a chance to turn the tables.��


    ��But Lorein seems very confident in his backup. He should still have a high powered miracle up his sleeve. But with his current level of swordsmanship, the miracle he uses probably can��t be faster than Li Gang��s reaction.��


    No sooner had she finished speaking than many turned to look at Sonya in astonishment �C including Nidhogg, Aurelion, Li Gang and Lorein on stage!


    Lorein��s eyes flickered as he suddenly charged forward quickly, drawing a cross in front of him with his long sword!


    Arcane power converged into form, the huge cross-shaped sword qi covered nearly the entire stage, like a guillotine sweeping toward Li Gang!


    ��That��s your trump card? That��s it?��


    Li Gang sneered and sidestepped with a smooth step, actually passing straight through the cross sword qipletely unharmed!


    At the same time, he drew his bow and fired an arrow at the charging Lorein! However, Lorein did not evade or block this time, but stuck out his hand to block the silvery magic arrow, trading a minor injury for reduced distance!


    Li Gang was a little flustered and quickly retreated, firing three consecutive arrows. The three arrows exploded almost simultaneously like meteors falling, shrieking as they cut through the air, clearly explosive arrows that could cleave a person in two!


    But Lorein was going all out, not evading at all and desperately urging his defense spirits. He used his left hand to block all three arrows!


    ng!


    When the two came to a stop, the spectators saw Lorein��s left hand riddled with bloody holes, the entire hand twisted and deformed as if it would snap in two with the blow of the wind.


    But the tip of Lorein��s sword was pressed against Li Gang��s neck!


    In just a few seconds, Li Gang had gone from advantage to defeat!


    Asunu loudly announced, ��The first friendly match, winner Lorein Zi!��


    The medical staff quickly took the winner Lorein backstage for treatment, while the loser Li Gang didn��t have a single injury and naturally didn��t need any treatment either. Thetter still seemed to have a hard time epting his defeat, standing on the stage tasting this unspeakable humiliation.


    ��Next up on stage will be����


    ��Hey, you!��


    Li Gang suddenly interrupted Asunu��s words, pointing at Sonya and scolding, ��All you do is spout nonsense from the audience, but I don��t see you participating in anypetitions. I hate people like you the most �C ��


    ��Li Gang!�� Aurelion��s face darkened as he angrily stopped his disgraceful student.


    ��If not for her spouting nonsense and messing with my mind earlier, I wouldn��t have lost at all!��


    Li Gang lookedpletely unsatisfied. ��I hate it the most when others makements while I��m fighting. If you��re so capable,e up here and fight me too! Ultimately it��s just -��


    ��Alright, let��s go.��


    ��See, I knew people like her���� Huh?��


    Li Gang was slightly taken aback.


    ��Let��s have a match, I won��t lose anyway.�� Sonya stood up from thementator��s booth. ��I really want to beat up losers like you who me everything but themselves when they lose.��


    ��Won��t lose? Just with your capabilities?�� Li Gang sneered coldly, ��I didn��t see youst year, you��re a first year right? How much arcane power can you even gather, as much as a feather?��


    As he spoke, Li Gang flicked his wrist and summoned a full half of the Silver Wings on his back!


    Although not fully unfurled yet, it justcked a few feathers. Li Gang was a second year after all, he had two more years until graduation, and could fully advance to two wings and enter the Temporal Lands before graduating!


    Asunu hurriedly held Sonya back, ��Miss Therave, there��s no need to-��


    In the next moment, even moreplete Silver Wings unfolded before his eyes.


    That dazzling silvery radiance, brighter than the night sky full of stars, deeply attracted everyone��s gaze!


    Fully unfurled Silver Wings!


    Sonya, a first year who had just be a mage not long ago, had already officially reached one wing!?


    ��Want topete in arcane power? I was just looking for a chance to show off.��


    Sonya gently caressed her Silver Wings and arrogantly said, ��You should feel honored to be the stepping stone for my glory.��


    ��Next, use your defeat to pave the way for my triumph!��


    By this point, Sonya no longer knew whether these arrogant words were forced out by the summoning ceremony, or willingly spoken truths.


    She only knew that this feeling ofplete disregard felt really awesome!


    As he watched Sonya walk over to the stage, Li Gang inexplicably took a step back.


    At this tense and strange moment, everyone suddenly felt a stir in their minds and looked up together.


    They saw above the dome, under the night sky, the starlight suspended in midair suddenly fluctuated with arcane power. Then a person fell out from the starlight,nding right in the middle of the Starfall Auditorium, in front of Sonya.


    The moment hended, the man jumped up, noticed there were many people around, and decisively took the nearest woman hostage to try and flee �C


    !


    Sensing the thick killing intent from the other party, Sonya directly used her hand as a sword to force the uninvited guest back with a ��Wicked Light sh��. The uninvited guest was shocked in his heart, how was this random girl he grabbed a mage too?


    He immediately gave up on taking a hostage and tried to rely on his speed to rush out of the crowd. As a dual earth-wind mage who was once famed, wielding the miracle ��Earth Raft��, he could easily escape even when surrounded by hundreds -!


    But at that moment, two hands suddenlynded on his shoulders, holding him firmly in ce.


    ��Your neck, hands, feet all have starlight shackles.�� Aurelion said.


    Looking down, the uninvited guest discovered that his neck and limbs were somehow shackled with circr dark blue rings that looked like heavy manacles, though he felt no weight at all.


    ��This means you��re an invader from the outer domains. The Starchild Territories has marked you as an invasive species, using ��Starlight Shackles�� to prevent you from teleporting.�� Nidhogg looked up at the portal in the dome that looked like starlight.


    ��Interesting, right above Swordflower College is unexpectedly a portal leading to the outer domains? Tell me, which domain are you from? Do you understand ournguage?��


    Only then did the uninvited guest realize he was surrounded by mages.


    And he had secretly activated his miracle earlier, yet it waspletely ineffective. His whole body was also suppressed and unable to move, meaning the two mages holding him from behind were at least three wing Saint Domain mages, directly using their Domains to negate his spirit beasts!


    Sensing danger, a screen popped up before the uninvited guest��s eyes, shing a string of red warnings: ��Life endangered detected, activating self-destruct mode!��


    ��Hmm? Can��t let you die so easily.��


    The red information suddenly became scrambled beyond recognition, and the screen even disappeared with a snap �C even the body chip was forcibly suppressed!


    The uninvited guest smiled bitterly. To prevent him from revealing the location of the virtual world portal and domain secrets, not just his chip, but his blood, bones, flesh, soul and even memories were all engraved with more than one miracle. Disabling just the chip only prolonged his life by a few seconds.


    ��Hmm? An evil curse that even the Saint Domain can��t purify? Nidhogg, can you stop him frommitting suicide?��


    ��I can, by killing him first.��


    The uninvited guest felt his body dissolving, blood boiling, skull singing, eyeballs escaping. The intense pain engulfed his senses like a tide. Beforepletely losing consciousness, he felt deeply desperate at his misfortune, but the corners of his mouth revealed a malicious smile.


    Because he knew his misfortune would shatter the happiness of others.

 Chapter 99: Observer?

    Chapter 99: Observer?


    The social gathering was suddenly terminated, and all the students were rushed back to their dormitories. A towering white spire erected from the ground, and the surrounding area was cordoned off as a military restricted zone.


    The students had no idea what the intruder meant, only seeing him turned into a puddle of mashed potatoes and packaged into a jar by the professors to be taken away. It was almost foreseeable that the mashed potatoes in the cafeteria would be hard to sell in the next few days.


    Sonya and her three roommates stood on the balcony of their dormitory, looking at the giant spire in the distance that almost obscured the night sky. They were a little dumbfounded for a moment �C to be honest, although they knew and had witnessed the power of sorcerers, the tranquility andfort of Cailleach made them permeate the might of sorcerers into their daily lives, so they had long be immune to it.


    For example, controlling the weather, preventing earthquakes, regenerating severed limbs, inducing crop growth�� These miracles have even be the daily work ofmon professions in the ��College Student Employment Survey Form��.


    When you are bathed in the glory of miracles every minute and every second, you naturally take it for granted.


    As for the sorcerer wars and miracle scenes in the movies, although they were very exciting to watch, they always gave people a sense of unreality.


    Are they really that powerful?


    Even if they are that powerful, what does it have to do with me?


    At this moment, however, the sorcerer apprentices of Swordflower College finally got a glimpse of the might of sorcerers.


    Just now, in just a few minutes, a towering white spire hundreds of meters high was erected from the ground before their eyes. They watched as the vast Stardust Hall was directly covered by the white spire, with soil and gravel stacking up like building blocks, and the top of the white spire reached the stars suspended in mid-air at a speed visible to the naked eye.


    Not in a day, not in an hour, but in minutes!


    The majestic buildings that ordinary people would take years or even decades to build, the sorcererspleted in the time it took to drink a cup of tea!


    ��Was it the work of a legendary sorcerer?�� Iris murmured, ��I don��t remember which legendary sorcerer specializes in earth magic����


    ��Any legendary sorcerer from Saint Sanctum can already transcend and convert arts at this point, using one��s own art to manifest another ismonce,�� Ingridmented. ��For example, the ��Wind Erosion Art�� of the wind-type sorcerer ��Wind Erosion Yadan�� is a miracle that utilizes wind spirits to exert earthen might and sculpt enormous structures with storms. ��


    ��Not to mention the arts, even those casually practiced by legendary sorcerers, with the aid of four-winged arcane power and four-winged spirits, can exert might beyond our imagination. The intruder seemed to be held in high regard, with othersing from other schools and even the nobility. With so many sorcerers gathered, constructing a white spire is probably effortless for them.��


    ��I noticed the turbulence in the virtual world earlier!�� Adele yelled, ��If I had reported it in time, wouldn��t I have gotten a school reward? Like exempting me from homework and graduate thesis?��


    ��The school will reward you by allowing you to retake failed courses for free,�� Iris poked Adele on the forehead, ��You failed two coursesst semester. If you fail two more this semester, let��s see how your schedule looks next year.��


    ��Don��t worry, I recently learned an amazing cheating method. I won��t fail anymore in the future!��


    ��Are you serious? Cheating right under the professors�� noses? Are you actually a hidden gold-rank sorcerer? Is your arcane lineage ��Binge Watcher��?��


    ��Hmph, just you wait and see.��


    ��Speaking of which,�� Ingrid looked at Sonya, ��Sonya, how did you suddenly manifest the Silver Wings? Counting back and forth, you��ve only been in the virtual world for less than ten days!��


    Iris and Adele also nced at Sonya furtively. They were curious about this as well, but their rtionship with Sonya wasn��t good enough to pry into such matters, so they had been waiting for Ingrid to bring up the topic.


    It was just too astonishing after all.


    Everyone knew that Sonya only started training in swordsmanship on the evening of April 12th, summoning the resonating sword spirit during the fight with Felix in the training hall, thus being hailed as ��the number one sword talent of the water-type��. She was taken in as a research apprentice by Professor Trotzam, who came after hearing the news, the next day.


    Then she first entered the virtual world only on the night of the 13th, and today was the 21st.


    Only eight days!


    From a sorcerer apprentice without even virtual wings, to an official silver-rank sorcerer who manifested Silver Wings, it only took Sonya eight days!


    This speed was simply too horrifying �C it should be known that Rig Caroll, who was just showing off on stage earlier, was considered a genius of Trinity College merely because he had condensed most of the Silver Wings by his second year.


    And Professor Nidhogg��s beloved apprentice, the ��Orange Dancer�� Leone, who manifested the Silver Wings by her third year, was regarded as having the posture of a Swordsaint!


    Even the most gifted young sorcerers need one or two years to navigate the sea of knowledge and condense arcane power. Yet Sonya aplished this process in just eight days!


    If it wasn��t for the limitations of realms, with arcane lineages having to advance to the gold rank first before sorcerers could obtain the second pair of wings, Iris even suspected that Sonya could have be a gold-rank sorcerer before them.


    To be honest, if it wasn��t for someone suddenly falling from the sky, Sonya would have undoubtedly been the absolute protagonist tonight; if the school hadn��t announced martialw and all students had to stay in the dorms, their dorm would definitely have been trampled by countless people now.


    How on earth did she navigate the sea of knowledge in eight days and manifest the Silver Wings?


    Sonya was a little scared in retrospect as well.


    She didn��t actually intend to expose herself so quickly. But when Rig asked a question like ��Do you have a single feather of condensed arcane power?��, under the constraints of the ritual, she had no choice but to summon the Silver Wings to prove herself �C the Sonya now definitely did not admit that she had any intention to show off back then.


    Her arcane power was naturally due to her and the Observer having been using the ��Maelstrom Secret�� to create maelstroms these two days.


    Although the maelstroms created this way had a rtively short range and were difficult to make, in three nights the Observer could find three or four knowledge creatures, and the two of them had created several maelstroms, both manifesting the Silver Wings.


    This was supposed to be a good thing, but Sonya had be a sorcerer in too short a time, once exposed, it would appear too frightening. She was also unsure if the school would covet the ��Maelstrom Secret��. If this was just simple knowledge, she would have contributed it and the school would have rewarded her with a candy.


    But the ��Maelstrom Secret�� was a hidden poison. The more people knew about it, the more deeply poisoned the knowers became. Now every time Sonya drank water, she felt as nauseous as drinking spoiled water. She was unwilling to share this secret which would increase the difficulty of drinking water for herself.


    ��Because I encountered a maelstrom.�� Sonya controlled the amount of truthful information she revealed.


    The others made sounds of sudden realization and didn��t continue to ask further, with envy and jealousy showing on their faces.


    Perhaps they thought Sonya had encountered an ultra long-distance maelstrom and then condensed the Silver Wings in one go. They didn��t think in the direction that Sonya had encountered multiple maelstroms �C who would guess that someone would win the jackpot continuously?


    Bang!


    Suddenly a sound akin to a mirror shattering rang out from the sky. Looking up, they saw a woman in azure blue robes flying towards the white spire. Then roaring sounds came from the spire, even blossoming a halo of rainbow ripples �C a battle had evidently erupted!


    ��The female sorcerer who just flew to the spire, wasn��t that�� Her Holiness the Saintess of the Church?�� Adele eximed in surprise, ��I think I saw herst year when I participated in the grand festival����


    Iris asked, ��Adele, are you religious?��


    ��No, but noble families in Cailleach definitely have to participate in various festivals and celebrations,�� Adele looked at the decadent glow at the top of the spire, ��Nothing happened just now�� Could Her Holiness have started fighting with the other professors?��


    The others couldn��t get a word in at all. Their understanding of the Church was even less than Adele��s. In the Stand, the Church was a very contradictory existence. On one hand, it was undoubtedly the sole national religion, with no other beliefs existing, responsible for hosting various celebrations and even requiring the Pope��s blessing for the Empress��s coronation.


    But at the same time, the Church was also very low-profile, with almost no missionary activities, and even artistic works about the Church like movies and operas were few and far between, with virtually no believers.


    Even they, as female college students, only knew that the Church worshipped the Starchild Archon, but had even forgotten the full name of the Church.


    Was it the Starchild Church or the Star Church?


    ��Time to shower,�� Adele yawned.


    Sonya suddenly remembered something and checked her Miracle Ring, discovering that it was already 11:30 pm!


    In the past, she would have entered the virtual world by 11 pm!


    Without bothering to remove her make-up or shower, Sonyay in bed, searching for the Gate of Truth within the consciousness of the resonating sword spirit �C with the school under curfew tonight, she naturally couldn��t go to the meditation building, but as an official silver-rank sorcerer now, even without the aid of the meditation building, she could easily locate the Gate of Truth!


    Closing her eyes�� Gate of Truth�� sinking into consciousness�� entering the virtual world!


    The same entry process as usual, but before Sonya opened her eyes, she could already feel the cold seawater surrounding her �C how nauseating, just like the disgusting feeling of being watched by others with mocking eyes when studying at home as a child.


    Opening her eyes, what entered her sight wasn��t the familiar small boat and the familiar stranger, but the eternally unchanging white fog, and the deep, dark Sea of Knowledge.


    ncing around, isted and alone, the silence around her was frightening. Disregarding the nausea, Sonya swam around for a bit, but her eyes saw only unchanging scenery.


    An indescribable unease welled up in Sonya��s heart.


    ��Observer?��

 Chapter 100: Giving the Rich Old Lady Some Face

    Chapter 100: Giving the Rich Old Lady Some Face


    ��If hurt enough, then use a hand to neatly slit open����


    Igora let out a long sigh after staying up all night, jumping out of bed ready to head out, but he stopped when he reached the door.


    ��Why am I in such a hurry? Wouldn��t it be even better if he died?��


    Igora shook his head and went back to the bathroom to take a bath as usual. But this time he didn��t have the usualfort and rxation during his bath. He hurriedly dried himself after soaking for a while, then went to brush his teeth to activate his divination spirit.


    However, the prerequisite for resonating with the divination spirit is to keep a natural calm state of mind, and Igora was in aplete mess right now. He didn��t have any hope for it. But somehow, the divination spirit still activated, leaving a line of words in the toothpaste foam on the mirror:


    ��Don��t be too surprised.��


    Surprised about what?


    Could Ashe really be dead?


    A chill went through Igora��s heart. Seeing how concerned Gerard was about Ashe yesterday, he realized that the hunter captain hade for that whimsical cult leader.


    Although transporting prisoners and assisting the prison in arranging the Blood Moon Tribunal were also part of a hunter��s job, it was by no means necessary for thew enforcement captain to be present. With Gerard��s status, he could have easily refused work he wasn��t interested in, so the fact he came to Shattered Lake must mean someone had aroused his interest!


    If that was all, it would be fine, Ashe could just sacrifice some skin. But Igora also identally found out that people like Gerard had legal immunity!


    In the Blood Moon Kingdom, thew is the will of God, rules are the desires of God, and cannot be vited or defied! As long as you are proven guilty of a crime, whether you are the permanent secretary, the mayor of Caimon, a wealthy merchant, you must be tried ording to thew, with no room for negotiation!


    To this day, Igora still couldn��t forget watching the elegant man on the light screen with an indifferent expression being torn to shreds by the executioner thirteen years ago at the annual nationwide Blood Moon Grand Trial he saw at the orphanage!


    That man was the legendary mage ��Silent Performer�� Teres Goldo! A legend in the Blood Moon Kingdom for nearly a hundred years! A mage with four wings fully spread, almost reaching the realm of divinity!


    However, even such a powerful person, as the price for viting thew, still had to endure the punishment of the trial��s iron hammer!


    It was also from that day that Igorapletely determined his own development path.


    In the Blood Moon Kingdom, true strength lies in discerning the rules, utilizing the rules, and controlling the rules. Otherwise, no matter how strong your abilities, you are still just a slightly stronger ant in front of thews instituted by the gods.


    But in his many years as an ��insurance agent��, Igora identally learned that some people had legal immunity �C even if theymitted illegal acts, thew would not punish them. On the contrary, the parliament and church still had to protect them and control public opinion to quell the turmoil.


    These people were extremely rare in number, and had to meet two criteria: first, they must be of the Sacred Bloodline or Moonshadow; second, they must hold important positions!


    The former was easy to understand. The Sacred Bloodline and Moonshadow were the favored races of the Archlunar, and most privileges would fall to these two races, so no one would be dissatisfied �C if you don��t like it, take the exam! Any race could transform into the Sacred Bloodline or Moonshadow by passing the assessment, and the research institutes and churches recruited new members every year.


    Thetter ��important position��, however, was somewhat questionable, because in the eyes of most ordinary people, the mayors of the administrative halls and members of parliament were the important positions, but that was not the case in reality.


    The three most important institutions in the Blood Moon Kingdom were the ��Heresy Court�� withw enforcement powers, the ��War Zones�� responsible for suppressing the Abyss all over, and the ��Beloved Church�� that oversees all orphanages, maternity hospitals, and is responsible for poption statistics.


    The bishops of the church,manders of the war zones, and captains of the hunter squads were the three most important positions.


    Among them, the church bishops must be of the Moonshadow, themanders of the war zones could only be held by the Sacred Bloodline, while the captains of the hunter squads were open to both races. So it was these three types of people who had legal immunity!


    Gerard Wessminster was a member of the privileged ss who could ignore thew!


    In other words, even if Gerard and Ashe went into the bedroom together, and only Gerard came out, Gerard would not be punished at all. He could even pretend nothing had happened.


    However, many people in the prison thought Gerard was probably just catching up with Ashe, at most engaging in some friendly sparring �C the one-sided kind for Ashe �C and then it would be over.


    After all, Ashe was on death row in prison, Gerard had no reason to tarnish his reputation over this condemned man. To put it bluntly, killing Ashe would only dirty Gerard��s hands.


    Igora had thought so too, but halfway through the night he suddenly realized a problem.


    The crux of the matter wasn��t whether Gerard was willing, but whether he could �C why did Gerard ask to stay with Ashe? He was judging whether Ashe had any value to him formitting a crime!


    At that time, Igora felt that Ashe was done for. With Ashe��s low EQ, undeveloped brain, and infantile facial expression management, Gerard might kill him just from looking displeased.


    But wasn��t this great? With Ashe dead, he didn��t need to fulfill Ashe��s wish anymore��


    Just as Igora was convincing himself while walking into the cafeteria, he saw an unimaginable scene: Ashe and Gerard were eating breakfast face to face, even chatting andughing.


    It seemed Ashe had told a reallyme joke, and the arrogant, cold-blooded white-haired hunter actually burst outughing, with the decibel levels even exceeding the ��Public Space Management Regtions��. A death row inmate would definitely have been muted by the chip for that.


    ��Ah, Igora, over here!�� Ashe spotted Igora at a nce and waved at him.


    Don��t act like you��ve got such good eyesight at other times�� Igora, who wanted to observe the situation from the side, was forced to reluctantly bring his breakfast over. ��Good morning you two, did you sleep wellst night?��


    ��Yes, very well.�� Gerard said, ��The lodging environment here is better than my home, though I haven��t slept for many years. Luckily Ashe was here so I wasn��t bored.��


    ��Oh?�� Igora raised his eyebrows.


    ��I was upte ying with Gerardst night,�� Ashe shrugged. ��Haven��t had such a good time in a long while.��


    ying? Igora and those nearby had subtle expressions.


    ��If you want, you can stay another night. I��ll give you a chance to make aeback. But you need to change your impatient habits. I didn��t even go all outst night and you had already finished yourself off.��


    The expressions of the nearby death row inmates grew even more bizarre, and the way they looked at Gerard changed as well �C Gerard was actually no match for Ashe?


    Tsk tsk, ��Heretic�� Ashe was surprisingly terrifying!


    They knew Ashe was brought back by Gerard himself, but after just one night, Gerard had been conquered by Ashe like this!


    No wonder he could be a saint favored by the Four Pirs, no wonder he could be the only one in the past century to form a cult in the Blood Moon Kingdom!


    As expected of Ashe Heath, easily aplishing what we cannot!


    Imperceptibly, ��Heretic�� Ashe had already be the revered king of death row inmates in Shattered Lake Prison �C though still a death row inmate.


    Igora directly dragged Ashe to the Sea View Tower rooftop. The transport ship carrying the Blood Mad Hunters had just set sail, breaking through the surging waters of Shattered Lake and sailing north. Many early rising fin sharks were very active, greeting the hull of the ship with their teeth, the scales glittering brightly as sunlight hit them.


    ��What were you ying with himst night?��


    Ashe was slightly taken aback �C that��s your first question?


    ��What else could we y? Of course it was cards.��


    ��Cards?�� Igora was confused for a moment. ��What card game?��


    As a highly developed fantasy society, the Blood Moon Kingdom naturally also had ying cards, though there were some differences in the details, butrgely simr. Ashe found they didn��t have the ��ckjack�� 21-point game here, so he modified the rules a bit to teach Gerard, and the two yed ckjack all night.


    Although Gerard learned it very quickly, his ying style was unexpectedly aggressive, and he often identally busted. So Ashe abused him all night.


    Igora��s eyes lit up when he heard about this game: ��Not a bad game. If the casinos knew about it, it would definitely be a wildly popr gambling game�� But didn��t Gerard intend to do anything to you? I thought he came specifically for you.��


    Ashe looked at Igora: ��You��re worried about me?��


    ��Of course, you still owe me a wish.�� Igora said calmly: ��If you die who can I get payment from? In this world, only I lend to others, no one can owe me.��


    ��Indeed, no matter how lonely a person is, there will always be someone missing them �C such as the tax department and creditors.�� Ashe quipped, then continued, ��It was Professor Sylin who asked him toe kill me.��


    ��What?�� Igora was shocked: ��Sylin actually�� Then how did you get away with it? If Gerard wanted to kill you, no one in Shattered Lake Prison could protect you!��


    Ashe proudly said: ��Of course it was thanks to my sincere gaze, kind heart, and eloquent persuasion!��


    ��Don��t joke around, I��m being serious.��


    ��I��m not joking! I really reasoned with him, touched his heart, and then he gave up killing me and yed cards with me all night instead.��


    Igora looked at Ashe for a good while, confirming he wasn��t lying. He could no longer keep a straight face.


    A three-winged Sacred Bloodline mage who had lived over a hundred years was actually easily persuaded by Ashe?


    Unless you��re also a telepath, Ashe? Otherwise it��s hard to exin how you grasped a hypnotic technique to control Sanctum powerhouses.


    Or could this be the might of the Four Pirs? Allowing Ashe to unknowingly alter the will of others?


    Igora watched the transport ship that was about to disappear over the horizon, and suddenly recalled something: ��You said Gerard yed ckjack with you all night, and he lost more than he won?��


    Ashe shrugged: ��Yeah, I didn��t expect Gerard to be so weak.��


    Igora wanted to say something, but held it in.


    In his opinion, although ckjack had ever-changing gamey, for a three-winged Sanctum mage, that bit ofputational power was negligible. Theoretically, Gerard could rely on his memory and calction abilities to grasp all the cards of both sides, and even calcte his optimal decision.


    Even if it was his first time, he should have quickly mastered it, not lose more than he won.


    But maybe Ashe was just really good at ckjack, Igora thought.


    On the transport ship, a group of Blood Mad Hunters were ying cards.


    ��Ah-ha.�� Gerard flipped over the hole card, ��Just 21, I win, 5 silver coins from each.��


    ��No way, Captain you can��t y!�� one hunter said, ��You��re cheating!��


    ��You guys washed and dealt the cards, I didn��t use any spirits, how could I cheat?�� the white-haired hunter yed innocent.


    The hunter couldn��t help but curse, ��Your memory andputational abilities are stronger than ours. From the moment we got our cards you analyzed all the situations already. How could we possibly win? You��re simply crushing us with your Sanctum abilities!��


    ��Alright alright, if you don��t want to y we won��t y.�� Gerard whistled and walked over to the railing, gazing through the ss at Shattered Lake Prison gradually disappearing from sight.


    A thin beastman hunter walked over. Unlike most hunters, he was thin, short, at first nce looking more like a goblin.


    Yet like Gerard, he had crimson ruby eyes.


    ��Captain, I��m very curious,�� he leaned on the railing and asked, ��What exactly did Ashe Heath do to make you spare him?��


    Gerardughed. ��How do you know I came for Heath?��


    ��It��s not your first time doing this.�� Bas said. ��The captain ofw enforcement is often the one who breaks thew the most. I know who was behind Councilor Will��s assassination, Captain. Every time you want to do something, the whole Heresy Court has to clean up after you. It��s not even troublesome to go through the procedures����


    ��But this is the duty the Archlunar has bestowed upon you, there must be meaning in it.��


    ��So I��m curious, because you have so many reasons to execute Ashe Heath, just being the leader of the Four Pirs Cult is enough for you to take action. And you must have obtained some intelligence that made you feel Heath was still dangerous, which is why you specifically came to Shattered Lake, right?��


    Gerard leisurely said, ��As expected, it��s just morefortable using our own people, highly observant and smart. Compared to you, Emma is really useless����


    Bas raised his eyebrows: ��Captain, you just vited regtions against gender discrimination, racial discrimination, and more in one sentence, even provoking conflict between the two lunar races. If others heard that, the Caimon media wouldn��t need any other news this month, just condemning you would fill their pages.��


    Gerard just smiled and changed the topic. ��As for Ashe Heath�� you��re very right, he gave me far too many reasons to take action, like him reading the romanceics I hate most. ��


    ��So what did he do to make Captain reconsider?��


    ��He didn��t do anything, or rather, nothing he did swayed me. I spared him to give someone face.��


    Bas was taken aback. ��There��s still someone who needs you to give them face?��


    ��Of course.��


    Gerard looked towards Shattered Lake Prison, about to vanish from sight, and recalled the crow uniform hidden under Ashe��s bed in his cell, as well as the sweet tangy smell of Ashe��s blood.


    ��I smelled the aura of colorless source blood.��


    ��As fellow alumni from the four great research institutes, I dare not snatch the long awaited offering of the new race.��

 Chapter 101: Summoning “Sincerity”

    Chapter 101: Summoning ��Sincerity��


    Cailleach, Swordflower College.


    ������I knew it must be a whirlpool, damn it! Why don��t I have luck like you? My Silver Wings were painstakingly condensed bit by bit every day and night!��


    ��Oh��no. The more I think about it the angrier I get. The more I look at you the more jealous I be. All my life I��ve hated people like you the most, those with both great luck and talent. Go away, go away!��


    ��Go back and diligently train your swordsmanship. If I find out you be arrogant andzy just because of this little achievement, I��ll burn you to ashes with my jealous mes����


    Sonya was kicked right out of the professor��s researchb, spat her tongue out and headed back happily �C despite Professor Trotzam��s harsh words, he hadn��t stinted on the rewards at all. He directly gave her two sword spirits from his own treasures, and even shared two Sword Miracles with her!


    The two single-wing spirits were ��Sheath�� and ��Sharpen��, the former Sonya had seen before with senior sister Sylvia. It can be triggered when the de is kept in the sheath for more than 15 seconds, which strengthens the power of the next attack;


    Thetter is a specialized spirit for empowering des. When sharpening a sword it will trigger, making the edge keener, more resilient and less prone to chips and breaks.


    The two Sword Miracles were ��Sheath��s Gathered Light�� and ��Sharpen for Ten Years��, both derived from the main spirits of Sheath and Sharpen. Sonya would need to purchase additional support spirits to activate these Miracles.


    For example, ��Sharpen for Ten Years�� requires the time series spirits ��Second��, ��Minute��, ��Hour��, ��Day��, ��Month��, ��Year��.


    Although they are time spirits, they aren��t expensive and can even be considered cheap, readily avable at any time on the spirit trading tforms.


    In the secondyer of the virtual world, the Time Continent, this series of time spirits are practically everywhere. Two-wing casters can harvest quite a few every time they enter the virtual world.


    Although only Two-wing casters have the qualifications to gather them, with suchrge quantities the prices are naturally pressed down. Otherwise Professor Trotzam wouldn��t have taught Sonya this Miracle �C the Sword Saint still understands the circumstances of his genius student.


    However, because she sold quite a few spirits from the virtual world, Sonya is actually wealthy now. She has been pondering what spirits to purchase recently to improve her tactical system, and Professor Trotzam has helped resolve her dilemma early.


    From these two Miracles it��s also clear that Professor Trotzam has established Sonya��s current goals: raise her level, be familiar with spirits, and master Miracles.


    This is only natural. Condensing Silver Wings in just eight days starting from nothing, Sonya��s swordsmanship levelpletely cannot keep up with the speed of her arcane energy growth.


    The chasm before Sonya now is her spell level. Until the day she raises her swordsmanship to the Gold level, she cannot summon two-wing spirits for a single day, naturally unable to enter the secondyer of the virtual world, unable to step foot on the Time Continent, unable to condense Golden Wings.


    A caster��s advancement does not permit weak points. Arcane power and level must reach the criteria together for the virtual world to open up higher level worlds.


    Therefore, even if Sonya fully unfolds her Silver Wings, if she wants to advance to Two-wing, she would need at least a year to precipitate her swordsmanship level.


    In a certain sense, Sonya condensing arcane energy so quickly actually has huge risks, because from now on she will arrive at the core areas of the sea of knowledge, and if unlucky could even encounter mature knowledge lifeforms �C absolutely not something a One-wing caster can contend against.


    This is also why Professor Trotzam is so strict with her, because if Sonya besx andzy, it is very possible she would die repeatedly in the virtual world. Not only would her soul be damaged, she could also lose important spirits, and possibly even cause her spell level to stagnate.


    ��Fair winds�� are a great taboo for casters. Countless casters, after obtaining a fortuitous encounter, believed themselves blessed by heaven, confidence inted, but were soon harshly taught a lesson by the virtual world, ultimately fading away into the masses, their achievements even less than diligent casters who steadily climbed step-by-step.


    The virtual world is no charitable ce. The more benefits you obtain from it, the greater pressure it will impose on you. All the fortunes bestowed by the virtual world that are given away are marked behind the misfortunes that need to be paid for.


    Unless Sonya could meet a Golden Fish like the whirlpool through a burst of luck, directly smuggling her to the Time Continent, then she could ignore the level divide and directly advance to Two-wing.


    But not to mention Professor Trotzam, even Sonya hadn��t considered this possibility �C because even the Observers couldn��t find Golden Fish.


    Thinking of the Observers, Sonya��s excited expression gradually faded away.


    She quietly sighed, preparing to return to the dorms �C today was still under martialw, the entire school suspended with all students prohibited from approaching the White Tower.


    Yet just exiting the research building, she saw a familiar luxury sedan parked on the driveway. She turned to circle around it but the window slowly down, revealing Felix��s handsome face.


    ��Get in, I��ll take you back.��


    A statement without need for response. Felix slowly followed Sonya in the car, asking ��You met a whirlpool?��


    ��Yes.��


    By now nearly everyone in school knew that the country bumpkin Sonya had encountered a whirlpool just days after entering the sea of knowledge �C if Sonya had disyed some rare spirit, there might still be gossip about her being a mistress to get them or something. But the growth of Silver arcane energy had only this one avenue, even the most gossipy people had nothing to say.


    No one could possibly think someone used a whirlpool to take Sonya as their mistress!


    As for nonsense like ��she��s just lucky��, once it appeared in the Swordflower Exchange, it would only invoke ridicule and bans from the students �C the rise of every legendary caster involved fortune��s favor, unfortunate casters had long been bullied by the virtual world into whimpering.


    Attacking a caster��s luck is the most shameful behavior, no different than ��if he couldn��t breathe then I could definitely beat him��, rogue and boring.


    So Sonya had no need to deny it, moreover right now she couldn��t deny it anyway.


    Felix was silent for a long time, and only when Sonia was about to enter the dormitory area did he suddenly ask, ��After you crossed the whirlpool, didn��t you meet a severely injured fish and get the Murderous Sword from it?��


    Sonya was slightly stunned, whatever she was thinking at the moment, but the ritual had already decided what she was going to say, ��Yes.��


    Felix was a little surprised, he hadn��t actually expected such an answer. If Sonia had actually encountered it, she would have inevitably grasped the subtext of Felix��s statement.


    ording to Sonya��s character and ability, she would definitely be able to recognize the drop and not let Felix see the slightest trace.


    Felix gently tapped his fingers on the steering wheel and asked, ��What price would I have to pay to buy back Murderous Sword from you?��


    Although Sonya wanted to act tough and say ��not for sale��, her mouth obediently said ��Give me a noble title.��


    Felix was slightly surprised ��Didn��t I mention to you before, as long as you marry me-��


    ��I don��t like you.��


    What did liking or not have to do with a marriage of mutual benefit�� Felix almost blurted out this sentence, but seeing Sonya��s earnest expression, he swallowed the words back down with a sigh ��If you��re unwilling to take that path, then I have no other conditions to move you�� wait a moment.��


    Sonya decisively hurried back to the dorm area, thinking Felix wouldn��t openly rob a civilian girl��s spirit in broad daylight right?


    She saw Felix take out a paper to write on, then directly flew it over to Sonya ��Read it then burn it yourself, can this be worth a favor to you?��


    Sonya took it and looked �C it was surprisingly a Miracle form called Murderous Activation, with Murderous Sword as the main spirit.


    Unlike simply enhancing might like Wicked Light sh, Murderous Activation was a veryprehensiveposite Miracle. Its effect was for the caster to convert murderous intent into self enhancement,prehensively increasing strength, explosive power, reflexes, health recovery and more, with the boost strengthening as murderous intent rose.


    This was a very practical Miracle in both the virtual world and reality, because murderous intent included not just the enemy��s but the caster��s own as well.


    At the Silver level, Murderous Activation could grant the caster up to 150% increase. Sonya couldn��t afford such a useful Miracle even if she emptied her little money stash.


    Clearly this was a matching Miracle Felix obtained together with Murderous Sword.


    ��Can this form make you owe me a favor?��


    ��It can, but only a favor approximately equal to one silver coin. If your request exceeds one silver coin, I would guiltily and anxiously refuse it.��


    ��You��ve calcted it very clearly.�� Felix smiled ��I will use this silver coin favor at the most suitable ce.��


    ��But you��re just giving this to me?�� Sonya said in surprise ��No confidentiality agreement? No other conditions?��


    ��No need, just use Murderous Sword well, don��t waste it.��


    Having said that, Felix drove away. Sonya was a bit confused, thinking so this is how rich people are, casually giving away a Miracle?


    But it was understandable too. As one of the ��21 Secret Swords��, for Felix obtaining Murderous Sword again would be too difficult, so the matching Miracle Murderous Activation was nearly meaningless to him, better to give it to Sonya as a favor.


    Moreover, Felix seemed to want to switch to training in toxins, water and wind, swordsmanship had be his cover, Professor Trotzam was just a temporary shelter he found, now he and Sonya had nopetitive rtion.


    Although that was the case, Sonya still couldn��t help sighing at the boldness of the silly rich young master. If it were her, no way could she bear to freely give away a Miracle, at least need the other party to fork out some money to appease her miserly heart.


    But Murderous Activation still needed two supporting spirits, the high price, and the possibility of not being able to buy it, added to Sonia��s already poor situation.


    As if she finally became lucky after such bitter, in just a single day Sonya obtained two spirits and three Miracles. Just grasping these new ��equipment�� would consume quite a bit of her time.


    If it was the Sonya from half a month ago, she definitely couldn��t have imagined a day where she would be troubled by having too many spirits and Miracles.


    Yet what troubled Sonya most right now was not the spirits and Miracles.


    She had originally wanted to rx in the dorms, watch some of Dahlia��s new show or something. But after hesitating for a bit, she still chose to go to the training hall for spirit training.


    11 pm at night, Sonya arrived at the Meditation building on time.


    Although the school was still under martialw, the areas outside the White Tower had basically resumed operations, like the cafeteria, training halls and such. Only sses were cancelled, having students self-study the entire day �C many students hoped these days would continue indefinitely.


    When looking for the Door of Truth, Sonya suddenly felt some anxiety, but quickly calmed down.


    ��Was still forced to train swordsmanship for two hours tonight�� clearly the Observer��s power is still in effect��


    ��And for a revived powerhouse with lost memories, even if he died he could definitely revive again��


    ��If something really happened to him wouldn��t that be great? Then I could gain freedom. I��ve already condensed the Silver Wings, temporarily no longer needing him to explore the virtual world, he��s useless now����


    ��But he most likely sessfully escapedst night, just identally overslept which is why he didn��te to the virtual world. No way something happened that easily. Come to think of it, if I show off the new spirits and Miracles I obtained, wouldn��t he be very surprised?��


    Amidst her random thoughts, Sonya found the Door of Truth and sank into consciousness, entering the virtual world.


    Her soul passed throughyers of dark mist, her consciousness coalescing into form in the virtual world. Sonya slowly opened her eyes, the scene entering her eyes the familiar boat, and the familiar strange man.


    His voice was still just as frivolous and unreliable: ��Good evening, Swordswoman.��


    Sonya suddenly forgot the words she had prepared toin and rebuke with.


    Like a heavy weight lifted from her heart, she breathed out in relief, lightly pressing a hand to her chest, revealing an expression of having a weight taken off as she smiled lightly ��It��s good that you��re alright.��


    This sudden concern made Ashe pause in surprise, but before he could say anything, a sh of gold light burst out from Sonya��s chest, transforming into a radiant single-wing spirit.


    Its exterior looked nearly transparent like a butterfly, with only one wing, but when fluttering about it refracted rainbow light, gorgeous as dreamy bubbles.


    Even without contacting it, just seeing it in that instant, Ashe and Sonya already knew this spirit��s name.


    ��Sincerity��.

 Chapter 102: You Really Don’t Care About Your Own Life and Death?

    Chapter 102: You Really Don��t Care About Your Own Life and Death?


    ��Sincerity��


    ��Single-Wing Spirit��


    ��Restriction: Must possess a heart��


    ��Basic Effect: Transforms the heart into a ��Sincere Heart��. During the duration, greatly enhances the sorcerer��s mental resistance in various aspects, and weakens negative effects that act upon the soul, consciousness and mind, such as dizziness, confusion, lethargy, etc.��


    ��Passive Effect: The sorcerer will be more fond of telling the truth, prefer sinceremunication, and more easily discern the authenticity of others�� words.��


    ����There are only two tragedies in life: one is not telling the truth, the other is not telling the truth truth.''��


    Sonya stroked this transparent butterfly-like single-wing spirit, feeling an incredible sensation. This was not her first time summoning a spirit, but it was the first time doing so without any precautions, making it so surprisingly delightful.


    She knew the ��Sincerity�� spirit was summoned due to the Observer��spulsory ritual, yet she grasped ��Sincerity�� with almost no obstacles, fullyprehending its knowledge structure.


    Sonya had a strong premonition: even if she were to lose ��Sincerity�� in the future, she could summon it again.


    Clearly she had never studied any knowledge about ��Sincerity��, and her own nature was also far different from ��Sincerity��. However, as she stroked this transparent butterfly, the resonance of knowledge connected her with the spirit, giving Sonya a feeling as if they were blood-bound. It was as if ��Sincerity�� was also her spirit when her birth.


    She suddenly recalled what was taught in ss about the origin of sorcerers.


    The first sorcerers did not know how to summon spirits. They simply lived normal lives, then all kinds of ��little cuties�� would emerge to help them.


    In that distant era, time was abundant, worth waiting for. Every second and minute could bring spirits to their side.


    Ashe opened the ��Operator Management�� interface and took a look.


    ��Death Maniac Swordswoman��


    ��Human Female Age 18��


    ��Trust Level: 2 (40% EXP Sharing)��


    ��Resonance of Trust �C Greed Falls Short: Chance to acquire better spoils when acting together.��


    ��Profession: Silver Sorcerer of Annihtion��


    ��Professional Trait: Recover 0.5% max arcane energy with each effective attack.��


    ��Possessions: Wooden Training Sword��


    ��Controlled Spirits: Vibration Sword, Moon Silk, Virtual World Telescope, Murderous Sword, Split Sword, Sheath, Sharpen��


    ��Sword Style: Silver Rank��


    ��Light Style: Silver Rank��


    ��Water Style: Silver Rank��


    ��Mind Style: Silver Rank��


    ��Virtual World Exploration: 0.098%��


    ��Curse of Knowledge: Whirlpool Venom��


    As expected, her Mind Style directly rose to Silver rank, but how did she obtain several spirits I haven��t seen before?


    Sonya told Ashe about her experiences and gains these past two days, equally surprising and delighting him. He thought this was likely the social and story modules that were missing from Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook. Even without a yer��s help, a mature swordswoman could progress through the story alone and obtain rewards.


    Although Ashe could not help the swordswoman clear ��game levels��, he was determined not to drag her down, and would try his best to amodate her needs when dividing spoils in the future.


    ��I can teach you ��Murderous Activation��, but I cannot tell you about ��Sheath��s Gathered Light�� and ��Sharpen for Ten Years��,�� Sonya exined. ��Thetter two miracles were taught by Professor Trotzam. We signed a non-disclosure agreement that only grants me usage rights, not sharing rights. Before tearing up the contract, I cannot reveal any information about those two miracles.��


    Ashe expressed understanding. Those two miracles were the swordswoman��s character-exclusive story rewards. Naturally it was impossible to share them with other characters. The source of Murderous Activation was the Murderous Sword, which was a reward they obtained together in the virtual world. Gaining additional storylines from it was like bonus rewards, so everyone could benefit.


    However, he was not interested in these miracles. After all, he did not have the key spirits, and he himself was a sorcerer without any skills. Even if he learned the miracles, he would not be able to research much out of them.


    Sonya nced at him and pursed her lips to ask, ��What about you? Did you break out of prison?��


    Ashe shook his head and recounted the bizarre experiences of the past two days.


    Upon hearing that the prison break n was cancelled, the Three-Winged Saint Hunter had arrived, and he was even nearly murdered by the captain in his dorm room, Sonya��s emotions also fluctuated up and down.


    ��So what are you going to do? Wait until ten dayster to break out the prison again?��


    ��Hopefully,�� Ashe shrugged. ��But there��s another Blood Moon Tribunal in a few days. I highly suspect I��ll be selected into the lucky eight again. With Sylin even inviting Saint sorcerers, I don��t believe he��ll miss this chance to openly and legally end my life.��


    ��Last time I had Valcas standing in front of me. This time I can only rely on my own abilities to get through.��


    ��You want to contend against the Blood Moon Tribunal?��


    ��I want to act pitiful on the livestream, so the audience votes for other criminals instead.��


    ��So in other words, you n on waiting helplessly for your death.�� Sonya��s brows furrowed as she showed an unsatisfied expression.


    In the past, Sonya would have brushed it off with a joke or two even if she mocked him. After all, the Observer��s reality was unrted to her. The Observer��sints and worries about his circumstances were at most chatting material during their breaks.


    She had never truly cared about �C or rather, worried about �C the Observer��s circumstances.


    But this time, Sonya could not help but ask, ��Don��t you have any backup ns or hidden cards? If you really encounter an inescapable predicament, do you have any surefire way to get out of it?��


    ��No no, if I did I would have broken out already to breathe the sweet outside air.��


    ��How could you not have any, you can force me to train, you can see through the secrets of the virtual world, you can casually read the Sorcerer Handbook, you even made me summon spirits I��d never imagined before. How could you not even be able to save yourself?��


    ��But I really can��t do it,�� Ashe spread his hands helplessly. ��I guess I��m just unlucky. Sorry.��


    Sonya stared at him intently, and suddenly said, ��Is it my misperception, or do you really not care about your own life and death?��


    Ashe was slightly startled. He turned his head and looked at the misty ocean, saying awkwardly, ��Hearing you care so much about me, I��m a little embarrassed.��


    ��I��m not����


    Sonya suddenly froze mid-sentence. ��Wait, did my ritual stop?��


    Ashe nodded. ��Of course, the ritual already ended when you summoned the ��Sincerity�� spirit. By the way, your Mind rank also rose to Silver. Remember to find some books to read when you get back �C or perhaps I can arrange Mind training for you.��


    ��No need, I��ll go learn Mind myself!�� Sonya firmly rejected. She looked at Ashe suspiciously for a moment, and suddenly blurted out, ��Observer, you are a humble, friendly and kind good person.��


    Ashe wondered why he had just received a deluxe good person card. He saw Sonya breathe a long sigh of relief, ��Ah, lying feels so nice.��


    Ashe was speechless. He scoffed, ��I don��t want to discuss this with you. It��s time to explore the virtual world. Since we��ve both formed the Silver Wings, we��ll y it safe for now and explore low-risk areas as much as possible����


    ��You haven��t answered my question yet.��


    Sonya grabbed Ashe��s right wrist as he was about to tap the light screen. Her pale red eyes stared straight at Ashe��s blurry visage. ��I��ve never seen anyone care so little about their own life and death. Is it that you have some mysterious hidden card I don��t know about, or do you really not care at all about your own life and death?��


    ��Hey, it��s not that I don��t care. It��s just that I don��t see the need to outwardly disy my nervousness. Do you really want to see me panicking and shivering in fear? Swordswoman, you have such twisted tastes~�� Ashe spoke lightly. His words also sounded reasonable.


    Yet Sonya shook her head.


    ��When I was young, my mother would asionally bring home snacks and treats. Whenever I asked her to eat some too, she would always shake her head and say she already ate. That��s the feeling you��re giving me now �C do you think I��m a little girl? Even a little girl could see through such a flimsy lie.��


    Ashe thought for a moment, then rxed andid down in the boat. He smiled lightly.


    ��I didn��t lie, I told the truth. If I wasn��t afraid of death, how could I care so much about breaking out? How could I rack my brains to form an escape team? I also fear death, I also desire life �C that��s a biological instinct. It��s just����


    ��Just what?��


    ��The most I can think of is just living. No past, no future, no family, no friends. The only drive pushing me to move forward now is simple biological inertia. I don��t have a goal worth striving for. Living is just for the sake of living.��


    ��Sounds like nonsense and drama,right? I was afraid you��dugh at me.�� He shrugged. ��I don��t know how to describe this feeling��It��s like my whole being is light as a balloon, yet only a slender thread ties me to the ground.��


    ��It sounds like the early symptoms of ��Eternal Life Syndrome��,�� said Sonya. ��Some high-age legendary sorcerers have a chance of contracting this special illness. Because their virtual world explorations have stalled and their management of reality is severelycking, coupled with their old age meaning they have not updated their social circles in time, or even unable to keep up with the changing times, they eventually fall into confusion and loneliness.��


    ����Eternal Life Syndrome�� was considered a terminal illness long ago. Sorcerers who had it would quickly have their souls wither away and die.��


    Ashe was shocked. ��That serious?��


    ��But with the development of medical sorcerers, this illness was soon cracked. No sorcerer has died from ��Eternal Life Syndrome�� in the past few centuries.��


    Sonya held up two fingers. ��There are two treatment methods. The first is directly using the miracle ��Lamp of Hope�� to reignite the spark within the sorcerer and help them rediscover their life��s goal. ��Lamp of Hope�� is also a verymon medical miracle that can effectively treat illnesses stemming from the mind and consciousness.��


    Although Ashe had tried his best to keep an open mind about this world, he still found himself constantly surprised by the sorcerers �C even sentimental diseases could be cured. Sorcerers really were wondrous.


    ��The second method is counseling, which is getting you back on track through conversation. Do you need me to provide treatment?��


    ��Sure, how does the counseling work?��


    ��First, you have to call me Master.��


    Ashe was silent for a moment. ��Swordswoman, I feel you also show some symptoms of ��Eternal Life Syndrome��. How about I provide treatment for you first�� Even little boy would not believe a lie that obvious!��

 Chapter 103: Guarding My Dream

    Chapter 103: Guarding My Dream


    Sonya clicked her tongue. She saw the Observer suddenly be so dejected, and thought she could take advantage of this opportunity topletely change the dynamics between them, turning the Observer under her control.


    But if she thought about it from his perspective, Sonya could understand the Observer��s feelings.


    He had awakened in an unfamiliar body, losing all memories of being a Sorcerer, yet not inheriting any memories of the new body either. He was like a newborn baby abandoned on the streets, so how could he not feel lost?


    The only difference between the Observer and a baby was that he wouldn��t cry and he wasn��t as cute as a baby.


    Just when he hade up with an ingenious prison break n and was about to take action, all kinds of idents had disrupted it. Plus there was an unresolvable crisis looming over them, so it was normal for the Observer to feel discouraged.


    When Sonya didn��t finish her homework on time, she would alsopletely give up and listen to fate.


    But when she gave up, the worst consequence was being scolded by a professor.


    Whereas if the Observer gave up, he could really die.


    She couldn��t let that happen.


    ��Do you want power? As long as you be a Saint Sorcerer and gain the legendary Four Wings, you can overlook all living beings and wield power enough to overturn the world.��


    ��I want it, but only a little bit. Power is indeed a marvelous thing, and it��s good to have it, but I won��t be greedy without it either. The Silver Wings have already made me very satisfied.��


    ��Do you want to explore the secrets of the virtual world? The sea of knowledge is only the firstyer of the virtual world. The time spirits are the secondyer, the boundless distant void is the third, and the Ruby Mountains are the fourth�� Many Sorcerers are immersed in the virtual world, not only because the virtual world can give them power, but also because traveling the virtual world itself is the most touching adventure.��


    ��I want to, but not that much. To be honest, I��m the kind of person who needs to cool down for a few months after one trip. If it wasn��t for continuing to increase my strength, I would have discussed with you about whether we should pause exploring the virtual world for now, since we��ve already condensed the Silver Wings����


    ��Of course not! How could a Sorcerer pause exploring the virtual world! Even theziest donkey on the production team wouldn��t dare say that!�� Sonya shook her head repeatedly, as if hearing some outrageous words: ��You��re so strange. Isn��t power and the virtual world usually the ultimate desire for Sorcerers? Or does your taste run more vulgar, desiring authority or women instead?��


    ��Would it sound better if I said career and love instead?�� Ashe said, ��Actually, if I could settle down after breaking out of prison, and meet a pure, cute, nice-figured beauty, then live a sweet, peaceful life together, I would be very satisfied with that.��


    ����The original owner of this body must have been framed,�� Sonya said very seriously. ��This kind of thinking definitely didn��te from you. You must have been influenced by the body. A body that can produce such thoughts, how could it possibly belong to a cult leader!��


    Although Ashe didn��t agree with the swordswoman vetoing his vulgar tastes, he concurred with hertter point��Ashe Heath couldn��t possibly be a cult leader, he must be a scapegoat pushed out by Professor Sylin!


    ��Tsk, you��re so troublesome, but I don��t know ��Lamp of Hope�� either.�� Sonya muttered, ��I heard that beating someone up also has therapeutic effects����


    Ashe retreated to the corner of the boat: ��Hey hey hey, let��s talk nicely! Actually this is just a trivial minor issue. Alright, let��s ignore this unimportant part and happily explore the virtual world!��


    ��No! We have to resolve your problem first!��


    ��Why?��


    Ashe was truly a bit puzzled: ��Didn��t you always hate me controlling your actions? Didn��t you say you could live well even without me? And I��m not trying tomit suicide either, just feeling a bit tired and unmotivated, it won��t affect exploring the virtual world. Why are you so concerned about my psychological issues?��


    ��Because I need you!��


    Ashe was slightly startled.


    ��Yes, I need you.�� Sonya seemed to have realized something as she crouched in front of Ashe and said, ��You��re very important to me.��


    ��I want to be a legendary Four Wings Sorcerer, grasp earth-shattering miracles, make the world heed mymands, and make even fate submit before me.��


    ��I want to explore the mysteries of the virtual world. I want to see the ��rain of time�� in the time spirits, see the endless distant void, see the Ruby Mountains made of rubies�� I want to witness more miracles, tame more spirits, climb to even higher levels in the systems of Sorcerer techniques, and even uncover the truth of the virtual world!��


    ��I want to be a big shot in Cailleach, to receive the empress�� conferment and be a new noble.��


    ��I also want to be a songstress, a movie star, create ssic and timeless films and dramas that people never tire of watching, and leave behind albums of heavenly songs that are passed down for generations. I want to be the vision in the eyes of others!��


    ��I want even more, more.�� Sonya gripped Ashe��s hand tightly: ��But relying only on myself, I simply can��t achieve my dreams.��


    ��So I need you, Observer. You are my shortcut to realizing my dreams.��


    ��Although I really hate all the idents you��ve brought into my life, I also acknowledge the many benefits you��ve given me. If it wasn��t for your appearance, I might not even be a Sorcerer yet, let alone have condensed the Silver Wings. Both in reality and in the virtual world, I need you.��


    ��Observer, although you don��t have any dreams of your own,�� Sonya enunciated word for word, ��you can guard my dreams.��


    ��You��re called the Observer aren��t you? Then observe me properly, and live well until I achieve my dreams.��


    Ashe blinked, unable to hold back a snort ofughter, tears nearlying out fromughing.


    As he wiped the tears ofughter from the corners of his eyes, he ridiculed, ��All I hear in your words just��using!��


    Sonya clicked her tongue, ��Isn��t this very good? Our rtionship has always been totally self-interest. rifying our respective needs early on can only help our future cooperation, right?��


    ��But I was actually hoping for a more affectionate conversation����


    ��That��s possible too. Don��t move.��


    Sonya reached her arms around Ashe��s waist and gently hugged him, resting her chin on his shoulder. Ashe could feel her movements were somewhat stiff, unclear if it was because she had never embraced someone of the opposite gender before, or because she rarely hugged people since she was little.


    ��You��ve already be someone very important in my life. I don��t want to lose you.��


    Ashe was stunned for quite a while, feeling like eating a strawberry ice cream on a hot summer day. Just as he was about to hug her back, the swordswoman swiftly pulled away, a faint smile on her face.


    ��How was it, did you feel your heart flip?��


    Ashe��s face darkened: ��Oh right, you��re not restricted by the ritual anymore, so you don��t have to tell the truth!��


    ��What else could I do? Do you really think that after knowing each other for just a few days, I��m that casual a person?�� Sonya stuck out her tongue, ��I already said we have an interest-based rtionship. You actually believed what I said�� So did your feel?��


    Ashe directly changed the topic: ��You said you wanted to be a songstress earlier. Anyway we��re free, why don��t you sing a song to liven up the mood?��


    ��If you tell me to sing, then I��d sing. Wouldn��t I lose face then?��


    Saying this, Sonya��s face reddened to her ears��she had spoken too quickly just now without thinking, identally revealing her dream of bing a movie star and songstress.


    She had kept this desire hidden in her heart since she was little. Even after starting college, she didn��t dare expose it. Firstly because she hadn��t chosen the Sound techniques, so theoretically she didn��t meet the threshold to be a songstress. Secondly, she would encounter situations like this, where if others heard she wanted to be a songstress they would surely ask her to sing a bit, which was very annoying!


    As usual, they quarreled for a little while, they suddenly stopped at the same time. Sonya sat down and asked, ��How are you feeling now?��


    ��I��m feeling awful, even want to die deliberately to angrily you.��


    ��You����


    ��Kidding.�� Ashe shrugged. ��But seeing how annoying you are, I suddenly recalled there��s a nemesis outside the prison living free and easy, yet still trying every means to put me to death, making my retirement days in prison so frightening, and he��s even the main culprit who framed me into prison�� The more I endure, the more angry I get thinking about it. The more Ipromise, the more I regret it. Even if I��m toozy to live, I still have to break out first to settle ounts with that guy!��


    ��Good, fired up now! Before taking revenge, I definitely can��t die!��


    Seeking revenge as a short term goal didn��t seem bad.


    Sonya nodded: ��Right, taking revenge is big thing. You should return whatever offense others have given you tenfold!��


    ��Also,�� Ashe looked at Sonya, ��Swordswoman, just now didn��t I say that I felt light as a balloon, with just one string tying me to the ground?��


    ��You��re that string.��


    Sonya blinked.


    ��Even if it��s for you, to guard your dreams, to observe your future, I will live on properly. ��


    Sonya didn��t know how to react for a moment, reflexively averting her gaze. ��I����


    But then Ashe suddenly tactically recoiled, giggling and asking, ��How about it, did your feel it?��


    Sonya��s mouth twitched, anger making her shoulders tremble.


    She coldly snorted, ��You spoke without any feeling at all, even a little girl wouldn��t believe you! Do you want me to teach you how to say lies you don��t even believe in yourself with full emotion? I��m a professional at that.��


    ��I want you to teach me to sing. Liven up the atmosphere by singing a couple lines first.��


    ��Tsk, end of idle chatter. Let��s start exploring the virtual world, otherwise it��ll be daylight on my side.��


    ��You��re right.��


    Ashe nodded and opened up the virtual map: ��We really have been here for too��long����


    Noticing the tremor in the Observer��s voice, Sonya asked in puzzlement, ��What��s wrong?��


    ��On the first day we entered the virtual world, didn��t you tell me about the taboos that must be remembered when exploring the virtual world?��


    ��Yeah, which is not staying in the same ce for too long����


    Sonya��s voice cut off abruptly as she tilted her head slightly, seeing a pair of pale yellow vertical pupils emerge from the thick white fog.


    They were the eyes of a fox dragon.


    Without them noticing, they had been surrounded by a group of knowledge spirits��slicing fish dragon, fox shining dragon, rainstorm dragon, mud fish dragon, umbre bird dragon��


    ��Swordswoman, were you speaking too loudly just now����


    ��Shut up.��

 Chapter 104: Another Hopeful Day

    Chapter 104: Another Hopeful Day


    Swordflower College, meditation room.


    As soon as her consciousness returned to her body, Sonya couldn��t help but copse on the ground in exhaustion. She barely managed to prop herself up against the wall and breathe heavily. The fatigue of her soul was reflected in her body, and before long beads of sweat were flowing down her cheeks and dripping down her corbone like pearls sliding into the depths of her dress.


    She waspletely worn out.


    It was still dark outside, the first time she had exited the virtual world this early, and Sonya felt like she hade out too slowly.


    Just now, a full eight knowledge creatures had chased her and the Observer for over an hour in the sea of knowledge. No matter how far or fast they fled, the knowledge creatures tenaciously pursued them, even when the Observer deliberately crashed into other knowledge creatures�� territories. The pursuers didn��t hesitate at all!


    Moreover, after the Observer did that, the number of pursuers increased from eight to nine.


    In principle, they shouldn��t be so afraid. After all, they were only silver sorcerers. At worst they could just give up their virtual lifeblood, since sorcerers were bound to die in the virtual world anyway, just with varying frequency.


    Being able tost until condensing the Silver Wings and then dying,pared to all the sorcerers throughout history, they would be among the most outstanding few. If there was a ��Latest Sorcerers to Experience Their First Death Ranking List�� in the sorcerer world, while they might not make the top ten, Sonya felt they could at least make the top hundred.


    But the moment they discovered they were surrounded by knowledge creatures, Sonya suddenly came across a hidden piece of knowledge. As they fled, the Observer introduced her to the ��poison�� brought by this hidden knowledge.


    ��Eviction Venom��


    ��Venom Details: When a sorcerer stays in the same ce in the virtual world for too long, their scent will be noticed by the surrounding knowledge creatures, provoking hostility from the knowledge creatures who see it as an affront to the natives. The virtual world is the home of the knowledge creatures. They do not allow invaders to settle here, and are determined to drive away and kill any invaders with ��settling tendencies��. They will devour any invading soulspletely.��


    ��Number Infected with Venom: 31��


    ��Venom Strengthening Degree: 31%��


    ��Current Venom Effects: Easier to notice surrounding knowledge creatures (when strength reaches 51% this turns into a negative effect, drops to 10% for great increase in benefits).��


    Sonya understood why the professors always said that ��you cannot stay in the same ce in the virtual world for a long time�� was a taboo, but no one could say why, even though sorcerers loved to dig deep for answers. It turned out it was because it was a venom.


    Unlike the Whirlpool Venom which had extremely high use value, so informed people were willing to share the secret with their loved ones, even at the risk of being poisoned.


    But the Eviction Venom was meaningless. Now that Sonya knew the truth about it, she would always remember ��never stay in one ce for a long time�� in the future �C but the school had already taught them this lesson!


    Therefore, people who knew about the Eviction Venom would not actively spread this venom. The number infected was naturally pitifully small, most likely from identally staying too long, thus unfortunately getting infected.


    Moreover, based on Sonya and the Observer��s harrowing experiencest night, most people who knew about this venom had probably been devoured immediately by the knowledge creatures.


    They had a small boat to sail quickly over the waves, plus the two of them teaming up to barely shake off the pursuers and exit the virtual world in the nick of time.


    Sonya couldn��t even imagine how desperate a solo sorcerer who could only swim to move would be when discovering they were surrounded by several knowledge creatures.


    The most terrifying thing was the knowledge creatures�� ��quantitative change�� leading to a ��qualitative change�� in the sorcerers�� deaths.


    As mentioned before, there were serious consequences when a sorcerer died in the virtual world, because when the sorcerer��s consciousness returned, remnants of the soul still lingered in the virtual world. The knowledge creatures would take the opportunity to take a big bite, damaging the sorcerer��s soul.


    But after being bitten by the knowledge creatures, the sorcerer��s soul also became lighter and returned faster, so the loss would not be too severe.


    This was why Sonya and the Observer had fled so desperately �C they weren��t being chased by one knowledge creature, but by nine!


    Each monster taking a bite would be enough topletely devour their two souls, maybe even not enough to share for other monsters.


    This was the real reason ��staying too long in the virtual world leads to death��: the sorcerer is torn apart and eaten by the knowledge creatures, the soul simply cannot return to the body. The body waits for too long and mistakenly thinks the soul has abandoned it, directly dropping dead on the spot.


    Because of this sudden incident, they didn��t get to explore at all tonight. They shook off their pursuers at top speed and directly exited the virtual world. Apart from slightly increasing their faction boundary, it was basically a wasted night, even a negative return �C just having one ��Whirlpool Venom�� was already annoying enough, and now there was another ��Eviction Venom�� too, making Sonya feel her mind bing less and less pure.


    Although with the low number infected, the ��Eviction Venom��s�� effects were currently beneficial, sooner orter if this venom spread it would definitely turn into negative effects.


    But in any case, being able to survive was a good thing. Just now Sonya had almost thought she and the Observer were going to die in the virtual world.


    Sonya heaved a long sigh of relief as she left the meditation building.


    The night sky was filled with twinkling stars, as bright as daylight. Thergest was the ��Waning Moon Star��, its crescent shape casting deep blue light that illuminated the school��s paths.


    ording to the moon phase calendar, the meteorologists were going to rece the Moon Star with a ��the Lower Moon Star�� tomorrow��Sonya suddenly wondered what the blood moon looked like on Observer��s side. Was it also managed and reced by the Meteorological Bureau like the stars in the Starchild Nation?


    Suddenly, a rainbow halo burst in the night sky, startling Sonya. Looking closely, she realized it came from the white tower.


    Being listed as a warning area, and converging sorcerers from all of Cailleach, Sonya vaguely sensed the ��virtual chaotic flow�� that dropped people from the white tower was very important. But her status was still too low to ess such high-level intelligence, so she could only watch from afar, guessing whether a group of professors was having a wild party inside.


    Returning to her dorm, Sonya moved lightly without waking her roommates. With no hot waterte at night, she took a cold shower and went out to the balcony to stand and let the wind blow dry her hair.


    She tapped her Miracle Bracelet, bringing up the light screen, wanting to watch the new drama starring Dahlia.


    There was also a full length mirror on the balcony. Sonya��s eyes nced at her reflection, and she suddenly adjusted her posture, tidying her hair, scrutinizing her appearance from all angles.


    ��What are you doing sote at night?��


    Adele, who had been hiding in her nkets watching shows, poked her head out curiously to ask Sonya.


    Sonya looked at Adele and pondered for a moment before asking, ��Do I count as a cute and innocent beauty with a nice figure?��


    Adele blinked. ��You do, but you��re still a littleckingpared to me.��


    She held out a hand, making a gesture indicating the gap wasn��t very big at all.


    Shattered Lake Prison.


    Ashe jerked up from the bed and rolled onto the cold floor. The icy ground seemed to reach his panicked soul, slightly soothing the turmoil after the escape.


    After getting up off the floor, he realized his whole body was drenched in sweat, so he went to take a hot shower. Although the regr dorms didn��t have bathtubs, hot water was avable 24/7 �C not providing hot water could be seen as abuse by human rights organizations.


    Leaning against the white tiles, letting the water sprays on his body, Ashe opened up the light screen to organize tonight��s gains.


    Yes, tonight was fruitful. Although to others, the ��Eviction Venom�� might be purely a burden, but for ��Aurora��s Sorcerer Manual�� it had generated new changes.


    ��You are infected with ��Eviction Venom.''��


    ��The ��Eviction Venom�� has enhanced the apocalypse observer��s perception of knowledge creatures in the virtual world. The virtual world map has undergone changes.��


    ��Note: The virtual world map has been updated. You can now discover knowledge creatures within observational range on the map, and obtain simple information about them.��


    Earlier in the virtual world, when Ashe opened the map, he noticed some changes in the 24 surrounding grids. Most were still ��Waste of effort�� and ��Not worth mentioning��, but several grids had popped up with more info:


    ��Mist Fish Dragon, Worth a visit��


    ��st Fish Dragon, Bit of trouble��


    ��Umbre Bird Dragon, Bit of trouble��


    Although it just showed the knowledge creatures�� names, for virtual world exploration this was a huge breakthrough!


    Before this, Ashe could only make a rough judgment on whether a region contained legacy inds or knowledge creature habitats based on the map prompts. Generally, ��Worth a visit�� was mostly legacy inds, while ��Bit of trouble�� was basically knowledge creatures, although asionally it would misjudge. But it was still better than blindly barging around.


    Now the areas where knowledge creatures lived were marked out, so the other ubeled areas where battles still urred must be legacy inds!


    Not only that, although Ashe didn��t know much about knowledge creatures, the Swordswoman had read ��Knowledge Creature Compendium�� so she could judge the corresponding monsters�� favored factions, approximate strength, and even specific weaknesses just from their names. They could specifically target knowledge creatures they had advantage over!


    They could even hunt knowledge creatures that dropped swordsmanship gems, like ��Cleave Fish Dragon�� and ��Umbre Bird Dragon��, to raise the Swordswoman��s swordsmanship boundary to gold rank, helping her advance to Two-Winged Gold!


    Once the Swordswoman reached the time spirits, Ashe could naturally use the same trick to hitchhike to the time spirits through her.


    Just like bing a silver sorcerer in the sea of knowledge, Ashe could also advance to a gold sorcerer in the time spirits, even if he didn��t have a single factions at gold rank, or had never cultivated a day in his life, relying entirely on clinging to the Swordswoman��s thighs to ascend �C saying that out loud would probably make other sorcerers explode with anger.


    With Ashe��s exploration abilities and the Swordswoman��s knowledge, as long as they didn��t deliberately trigger taboos and court death like earlier, exploring the sea of knowledge from now on would be smooth sailing without danger!


    But the premise for all this was that Ashe had to survive, had to escape from this prison, had to regain his freedom.


    Turning off the shower head above, he grabbed a towel to wrap around himself and walked to the sink. Ashe looked at his sopping wet self in the mirror, water dripping from his bangs onto his bony shoulders, sliding along his corbones.


    ��Crap, I��m starting to like this world a little.��


    The corners of his mouth turned up in a slight smile. ��Today is another hopeful day too.��

 Chapter 105: You Give Me No Choice

    Chapter 105: You Give Me No Choice


    ��Increase the fault tolerance of the n ande up with an escape route after hijacking the ship?��


    On the roof of the Sea View Tower, Igor listened to Ashe��s request and found it odd. ��Shouldn��t your top priority be figuring out how to get through the Blood Moon Tribunal in a few days? Don��t tell me you don��t think you��ll be selected for the lucky eight, or that you believe only one person will die in this extra Blood Moon Tribunal.��


    Not just Igor, even the ordinary death row inmates sensed that the next few Blood Moon Tribunals would result in heavy casualties��because the prison was nearly full.


    As the number of inmates increased, the prison couldn��t expand or reduce the per capita living space, lower the living conditions, or convert other facilities into dormitories.


    The environment at Shattered Lake Prison was already extremely close to the limits outlined in the ��Guidelines on Prisoners�� Living Conditions.�� If the prison dared to increase the inmate capacity by lowering living standards, human rights organizations would definitelye. They would use the prison of abusing prisoners.


    Therefore, the prison��s only and best method was naturally to let the death row inmates suffer ��reasonable attrition,�� while also increasing the revenue from the Blood Moon Tribunals��because the prison couldn��t force the executioners to attack non-target death row inmates. To maximize casualties, the prison had to design game segments that resulted in ��total annihtion�� and ��no escape.�� That way, the livestream effect would naturally be explosive.


    The Blood Moon Tribunal on the 15th was a prime example. The tribunal rounds wereplex and exciting, and the death row inmates could even kill each other. And when Valcas was being executed, if he had the thought like ��if I can��t make it, neither can you guys,�� he could bring down all the other death row inmates with him.


    Come to think of it, it was quite interesting. Human rights organizations would never allow the prison to increase death row inmate capacity by lowering living standards; but they thought it was eptable for the prison to design Blood Moon Tribunals with high fatality rates to reduce the number of death row inmates.


    Though there was no evidence, Igor felt that a portion of the advertising fees from the Blood Moon Tribunals must have be political donations to human rights organizations.


    ��Then what do you think I should do to safely get through the Blood Moon Tribunal?��


    ��Hmm��pray to the Four Pirs behind you? Or repent and beg for mercy from the Blood Moon Sovereign?��


    ��If Shattered Lake Prison is a cage, then the tribunal list is like the butcher outside choosing who to ughter.�� Ashe responded. ��We beasts in the cage can��t impact what happens outside, unless there��s a butcher out there who knows me well. But sadly there isn��t one, though there are probably quite a few who want to eat me.��


    ��So instead of worrying about surviving the Blood Moon Tribunal, I should operate on the premise that I��ll be lucky enough to live, and formte a more detailed prison break n. After all, there are nine days until the next transport ship arrives, can��t waste them like this.��


    Ashe leaned on the railing around the roof, arms crossed.


    ��Sounds like a waste of time.�� Igor wrinkled his nose.


    But Ronat beside them was excited. ��No, Ashe is right! Even reducing the danger by 1% and increasing the sess rate by 1% is worth spending time on. Friends, our time is precious. We could enjoy life after we return to the free world, but for now, please wholeheartedly prepare for the prison break��that��s good, right?��


    ��That��s right, we��d just be wasting time in prison anyway.�� Langna said. ��And I believe Brother Ashe won��t die so easily in Shattered Lake.��


    The vote was 3:1. Igor naturally had to go along with the majority��s opinion. Though he wasn��t actually against perfecting the n, he simply wanted to argue with Ashe.


    Perhaps because he knew someone like Ashe could never be his scam victim, Igor didn��t want to waste his charm on Ashe either.


    One had to know, when facing customers, Igor was a lovely person. With his spirit��s abilities, he could easily pry open a customer��s heart. He could chat with a customer all day long without boring them. Quite a few people would rather be scammed by him and want to chat with him.


    ��The chip��s restrictions make my n easy to fail. The most likely point of failure is the period after we take the medic��s clothes and before we board the transport ship.��


    ��If the unconscious medic is discovered early, or if our actions take over ten minutes, or various idents happen along the way, the guards will realize we��ve disabled our chips. Once they send a warning to the transport ship, we��ll have no chance of boarding, let alone hijacking it.��


    ��The risks are too great here, with too many unpredictable factors. If the n fails, it will most likely be at this stage.�� Igor looked around at everyone. ��Any ideas?��


    Ashe racked his brains, Langna stayed silent, but Ronat raised his hand. ��Why not go for something more direct��kill all the guards first?��


    ��Unless we can take out all the guards at the same time, if even one escapes, he can sound the rm.�� Igor was a little exasperated. ��Plus, the guards work in shifts. Some are always in the guard living quarters we can��t ess. We won��t get a chance to wipe them out all at once.��


    Ronat said seriously, ��Then think of a way to gather them together!��


    ��What way? Pray to the Four Pirs like Ashe? Or just directly, pray for all the guards to suddenly drop dead����


    ��What if we find someone, purify their chip, then have them go kill other death row inmates and guards? Wouldn��t the guards gather to hunt him down?��


    Igor was about to reject this idea, but swallowed his words. He paced back and forth reflexively, sticking his thumb in his mouth and nibbling his thumbnail, deep in thought.


    Ashe blinked. ��That sounds��more reliable than purely relying on luck!��


    ��Ronny is so smart!�� Langna patted Ronat��s shoulder andughed.


    ��It��s definitely feasible, though the details need perfecting!�� Igor��s eyes grew brighter. ��Use bait to draw the guards�� attention away, whether it��s ambushing and killing them or taking the chance to hijack the ship, it��s much better than my original n. We can also prepare more fallback options, like having Ashe disable more people��s chips and incite a huge riot at Shattered Lake!��


    ��Right under the prison��s nose, right in front of the guards, throw Shattered Lake into utter chaos!��


    Thinking about directing this spectacr, magnificent drama made Igor��s blood pump faster, and his long-lost passion for work reignited within him!


    Ashe said excitedly, ��No time to dy, let��s go pick a lucky death row inmate as bait!��


    Igor had no objections. The four headed to the Deathmatch Society.


    Their requirements for the bait were: aggressive, hates the prison, obedient, gullible, and most who fit this profile gathered at the Deathmatch Society.


    On the way, Ashe surreptitiously moved closer to Igor and whispered, ��Ronat is really weird today.��


    Today��s Ronat was all smiles, speaking actively, his expression sunny and passionate. It formed a stark contrast against the withered, dried up Ronat of the past few days, giving Ashe the creeps.


    Igor also whispered back, ��It means the ritual has entered thete stages. I won��t be surprised if Ronat��s cell is emptied out tomorrow.��


    Ronat turned to look at them, shaking his head. ��I should��ve mentioned I enhanced my hearing with a spirit, right? Unless you mask it with a spirit, I can hear whispers at this level!��


    Ashe and Igor stopped in tandem, both with innocent ��nothing happened�� expressions. When it came to shamelessness, they were oddly in sync.


    ��Don��t worry about me, I��ll definitely make it to next month.�� Ronat thumped his chest. ��My business with Langna won��t impact the n. We��ll resolve it after the breakout, trust me!��


    Ashe couldn��t help asking, ��Then why the huge change these days?��


    Ronat held up one finger to his lips. ��Secret.�� Then he angled his elbow out, letting Langna hook their arms. To onlookers, the intimate pair seemed impossible to be mortal enemies.


    But Igor was lost in thought. Was this Langna deliberately making Ronat like this to cooperate with the prison break? Now this sunny, cheerful, proactive Ronat would naturally be more helpful to the n, he even contributed useful suggestions right off the bat.


    If Langna did this on purpose, it meant he had great confidence in the prison break. So much that he was willing to alter his ritual��s progress to amodate the n.


    But even Igor, the n��s proposer, didn��t have much confidence in the prison break. By his calctions, their chance of sess was less than 10%, and even after perfecting it, less than 30%.


    Where was Langna getting his confidence from?


    Igor knew it definitely wasn��t in him.


    At this thought, Igor instinctively turned to look at the cult leader beside him. Ashe was confused by his stare, hesitating briefly before angling his elbow out in offering, an exasperated ��you give me no choice�� expression on his face. ��Didn��t expect you to actually envy this. I��ll force myself to oblige����


    Ah, how he wanted to hit him, to curse at him!


    Igor was so furious he nearly snapped.

 Chapter 106: Necromancer

    Chapter 106: Necromancer


    ��Stop hitting, you can��t beat someone to death like this!��


    ��Can you guys hurry up? There are dozens of us waiting here, every minute you waste is wasting dozens of minutes for all of us!��


    ��That��s about enough.��


    As Ashe and hispanions entered the Deathmatch Society, what reached their ears were not adrenaline-fueled screams, beastly roars, or malicious jeering. Rather, it was disgruntledining.


    If not for the chips restricting the foulnguage of these death row inmates, Ashe was certain he would quickly learn the ssic profanities of Blood Moon Kingdom��s various races.


    They squeezed to the front, and the death row inmates who got bumped into behind them looked impatient. But when they saw it was ��Demon��, ��Beauty Beast��, ��Gourmand�� and other infamous prison thugs, they quickly made way, some even showing deferential smiles.


    Although there was no hierarchy among the death row inmates, and even the mightiest inmate could not harm the weakest, not even pluck a single hair or scratch their fresh manicure. As long as one did not voluntarily step into the deathmatch ring, there would be no bullying from others.


    But reverence for the strong was ingrained in living beings, and this trait was in full disy among these inmates with morals lower than an old man��s diaper. Even if Ashe and the others could not harm them one bit, they did not dare offend these vicious criminals.


    Ashe secretly kicked the deferential ones out of his list of candidates �C I��m the kindest and most innocent person in this prison, if even I scare them, how can they be used as bait! None of them qualified!


    Getting to the front, Ashe saw two people fighting in the lowest-level deathmatch ring. One was a reptilian Snakelizard race with green scales all over, the other was a prison buddy whose name Ashe forgot but remembered hisst name was Harvey.


    After watching for a bit, Ashe understood why everyone wasining �C Harvey and the other guy were putting on a show fight.


    The Snakelizard simply did not fight back, allowing Harvey to keep punching his face. Even as the leather-like scales on his skin cracked and small teeth got knocked out, he knelt motionless on the ground, calmly watching Harvey.


    Only when Harvey��s fists were covered in viscous blood did the Snakelizard slowly say, ��Feeling better, Archibald?��


    ��Not yet!��


    Harvey suddenly knelt down, tore open his clothes to reveal a skeletal and scarred body, face contorted hideously. ��Come on, Hableen!��


    The Snakelizard shook his head, but still went to pick up a barbed whip ced at the side of the ring. One look and Ashe felt his hair stand on end �C the whip was covered densely with small barbs, he could imagine how excruciating yet exhrating it would feel to be licked by it. Add some salt water and the soul might ascend straight to heaven.


    With the muffled cracking sounds, theining voices lessened significantly. Though some still mocked Harvey for being an idiot, more expressed their respect in silence �C to earn the esteem of death row inmates, there were two methods. Be cruel to others, or be cruel to oneself.


    Ashe suddenly asked, ��What do you think?��


    ��Not bad,�� Igor replied. ��I��ll investigate his ��story��ter, might find something we can use.��


    ��Archibald Harvey has a deathmatch record of 7 wins and 1 loss,�� Langna said. ��Due to his thin build, he is sometimes seen as easy prey, but opponents who fight him often mysteriously lose consciousness. He is not weak.��


    ��This is the kind of hot-blooded man we need, he gets my blood pumping just watching him!�� Ronat eximed excitedly, clenching his fist. ��Let��s go find him after the match!��


    Igor shook his head, ��No rush, we still have time, let��s see if there are other options. Even if we pick him, I should grasp his weaknesses first, it��ll make things easier.��


    ��Ew, you such a jerk!��


    ��What, do you have a problem with that?��


    ��Yes, you see the Snakelizard seems close with Harvey. If we can��t find a weakness for Harvey, maybe we can use the Snakelizard instead �C after all he just got to prison recently, so he hasn��t forgotten the smell of freedom yet.��


    Igor nodded approvingly, ��Rarely do you make a decent suggestion, Ashe.��


    ��It��s nothing, I learned it all from you, Igor.��


    Seeing the two exchange wicked grins like bosom buddies, Langna��s face remained impassive, but he was extremely surprised inside. He had observed Igor Bukin before, and knew this scammer was a cold-hearted, selfish, and hedonistic person. He always wore a polite smile, but deep down looked down on everyone, seeing people as tools to be used.


    Of course Langna wasn��t saying Igor saw Ashe as a friend. If he dared say that, Igor and Ashe would probably think he was crazy.


    But from Langna��s observations, Igor��s attitude towards Ashe waspletely different from how he treated other inmates. It wasn��t the calcting fawning he did with others, nor the disgust he showed enemies. It was closer to��sincerity.


    Yes, sincerity. Although it sounded too naive to describe the scammer this way, this was Langna��s conclusion from his observations.


    Perhaps even Igor himself didn��t realize, he had unknowingly lowered his guard around Ashe, no longer hiding behind the mask he wore for self-protection. He didn��t conceal his disgust or approval, but treated Ashe as an equal, interacting and arguing normally �C Igor��s emotional fluctuations in the past year and a half were not as much as the past few days.


    Was this because of Ashe��s personal charm?


    No, Langna didn��t think so.


    It wasn��t that Ashecked charm, but that Igor could not be so easily influenced �C any Sorcerer specializing in the Mind sphere would have firmer beliefs and willpower than other casters, let alone Igor who was skilled at manipting hearts. How could he possibly have such a sudden change of heart, as if ��love at first sight��?


    In the world of Sorcerers, there were no coincidences.


    Only ��Miracles��.


    Although Ronaldo was a factor, ever since knowing Ashe initiated the prison break, Langna strongly sensed this escape n would surely seed.


    Unlike Igor and Ronaldo, Langna used to be a member of the Church, a servant of the gods. He had bathed in the glory of the divine, and deeply understood the vastness of the gods�� authority.


    The will of the gods woulde to pass.


    To the Blood Moon Sovereign, the wless and heavily guarded Shattered Lake Prison was but a fragile bubble that could be popped effortlessly, almost transparent.


    It was the same for the Four Pirs.


    Suddenly, the lights in the Deathmatch Hall turned fully bright. The barriers around the stage lowered, the stage doors opened, and crow doctors came to carry the Snakelizard away. But when they tried to take Harvey, he refused �C he didn��t want treatment.


    As the injured and blood-stained Harvey came out, the death row inmates automatically gave way. Since they still needed Igor to find Harvey��s weaknesses before recruiting him, Ashe��s group did not immediately approach Harvey either.


    But Harvey took the initiative toe to them.


    ��I was just looking for you, Ashe,�� Harvey said. ��I want to discuss something with you.��


    ��I��m broke.��


    ��There��s too many people here, let��s go���� Harvey reached to pull Ashe away.


    Igor grabbed Harvey��s wrist, smiling, ��It sounds quite interesting, may I listen in?��


    Harvey nced over Igor, Langna, and Ronaldo, then slowly nodded, ��Of course.��


    The five big viins quickly left the Deathmatch Hall, and went to the men��s restroom �C they had no choice, it was the nearest private ce. Besides, the restrooms were cleaned regrly and smelled nice, the running water could mask their voices, it was truly the ideal breeding ground for conspiracies and schemes.


    ��I heard you guys are nning a prison break recently?�� Harvey used a wet towel to wipe the blood off himself, looking at Ashe��s reflection in the mirror.


    ��That��s right,�� Igor did not intend to hide it. He had visited all the big names in prison over the past few days, the news could not be kept secret.


    But because he did not reveal Ashe��s Miracle Touch, and Igor had previously seduced newbies by posing as the president of the Prison Break Research Society, people either thought Igor was joking around or plotting something shady again. Plus the death row inmates were already mostly domesticated by the prison, so no one was willing to join. This forced Ashe to find ways to drag Ronaldo and Langna down with him.


    ��I want to join you guys.�� Harvey stuck his head under the faucet, wetting his curly hair. He lifted his dripping head, and Ashe was surprised to see him look rather delicate without the curls, not as vulgar and twisted.


    ��I want to break out.��


    Ashe was overjoyed, but before he could speak, Igor took the lead, ��If you want to join, you��ll have to contribute something to show us your value. We aren��tcking people right now, if you can��t y a useful role, we have no need to include you.��


    ��But even without contribution����


    ��Shut up!�� Igor red fiercely at Ashe, who shrank away aggrievedly.


    It should have been Igor��s side begging Harvey to join, but now that Harvey took the initiative to join, how could Igor let this chance slip by? He took the opportunity to make demands of Harvey. Having conducted so many negotiations and deals, Igor understood people��s cheap trait of ��the harder to obtain, the more precious��. If he directly let Harvey join, it would only make Harvey doubt their professionalism, perhaps even giving Harvey a ��I��m important�� misunderstanding. That would make Harvey harder to manage.


    It was best to raise the barrier high now, fully exploit Harvey for his resources before ��reluctantly allowing�� him to join. This would not only make Harvey grateful, but also let Harvey know his ce, so that even if they ordered him to be bait in the future, he would not resist much.


    ��A very reasonable request,�� Harvey nodded at his reflection in the mirror. ��I��m confident my abilities will satisfy you �C I can operate the prison processors.��


    ��Hmm, sounds pretty goo�� What?��


    Igor was startled, ��Processors? You can operate the prison chips? How is that possible!��


    ��Why wouldn��t it be possible?�� Harvey turned to look at the other four, wet hair hanging over his face but unable to cover the sharp glint in his eyes. ��Among the death row inmates, if anyone could operate the processors, it would definitely only be me.��


    ��Because I am a Necromancer.��


    ��And the chip processors is just a corpse.��

 Chapter 107: The Mouse Tries to Chain the Cat

    Chapter 107: The Mouse Tries to Chain the Cat


    A processor chip is a corpse?


    At this moment, Harvey suddenly took off his prison uniform. The blood from his whipped back had stuck to his clothes, and when he took it off you could hear a crisp swish sound. The countless barely healed wounds were ripped open again, and blood flowed from the finger-width gashes, trickling down his dark back, making it look suddenly like countless eyes were crying.


    Actually, Im quite surprised you guys know about the processor, Harvey said as he used a towel to wipe his body. This isnt the kind of knowledge taught in foster homes. Most people in prison dont even know whats controlling their chips, just like ants cant see the people above them.


    What imprisons us isnt the prison, but the chips. Shattered Lake is just a room in the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    Igor leaned against the wall with his arms crossed: I consider myself quite well-informed, often mingling among high society. I even made contingency ns in case I was ever locked up in Shattered Lake, which is why I deliberately tried to uncover the operating mechanisms of Shattered Lake Prison, and was lucky enough to learn of the processors existence Youre just a janitor, how do you know such hidden information?


    With just the right mix of arrogance and suspicion, Igor tried to subtly trigger Harveys emotions with his resonance spirit technique. If Harvey really knew some secret, he would surely eagerly boast about the information and its source.


    However, Harvey just nced at Igor in the mirror and calmly asked: Youve all been to the hospital before, right? Did you notice that there are no private hospitals in the Blood Moon Kingdom, only research institute affiliated hospitals and maternity hospitals?


    Isnt that pretty normal? Igor felt confused: Even if there were private hospitals, I wouldnt go. The affiliated hospitals have low fees, good reputations, guarantees, and many doctors. Private hospitals have no room to survive.


    Generally speaking, doctors can be any race  human, reptilian, elven, beastmen, even cannibals Harvey said. But there is one department in the hospital that only has members of one race  no other races are allowed to join that department.


    Langna nced at the bloodyshes on Harveys back: Since its rted to the research institute, then the race youre talking about must be the Sacred Bloodline But which department are you referring to?


    The morgue.


    Harvey vigorously scrubbed his wounds with the towel, though his face was twisted in pain, he still spoke calmly: If I told you the research institute exists solely to keep the morgue firmly in their hands, so they set up affiliated hospitals and banned the issuance of private medical licenses, would you believe me?


    Of course Ashe listened inplete confusion  they opened a whole hospital just for one department? Bought a whole crab just to dip it in vinegar?


    But Igor seemed to have passed an insight check, and asked: I remember your most serious crime was illegal handling of corpses. And the Sacred Bloodline Research Institute wants to tightly control the source of corpses Could corpses be a very precious resource for the Sacred Bloodline?


    Corpses are not only a resource for them, but also a taboo. Harvey smiled slightly. Just now you were shocked that the chip processor is a corpse, but what if I told you all the Sacred Bloodline are corpses too?


    Ashe thought back to that arrogant white-haired hunter Gerard, and couldnt associate him with a corpse at all. Although he was terrible at poker, he was clearly a smart guy whose mind worked quickly, just a tiny bit less so than Ashe.


    Corpsesyes, that makes sense!


    Igor had a sudden realization: I also wondered why the Sacred Bloodline has such long lifespans and dont age, even long-lived races like elves grow old. I used to think it was some miracle effect, but if theyre corpses, then of course their appearance would be frozen at the moment of their death!


    Come to think of it, Ive seen the Sacred Bloodline before, and indeed didnt hear a heartbeat from them, Ronat said, stroking his chin. Langna, youre a Moonshadow, you should know more, right?


    He turned his head, but saw that Langnas expression was very strange, or rather expressionless. He didnt speak or move his eyes, just stared straight ahead like a motionless wax figure.


    If he is a Moonshadow, he cannot respond in any way to this topic, Harvey said. The Blood and Moon made a pact when transforming their races to keep each others secrets.


    Ashe asked: So youre saying the processor controlling all the death row inmates chips is a member of the Sacred Bloodline!?


    Dont jump ahead, I havent gotten to that part yet, Harvey said. The Sacred Bloodline has always been hiding the secret that they are corpses, while also controlling all sources of corpses, in order to prevent anyone from researching corpses and learning necromancy  the necromancy school is currently the only school of magic that can control corpses!


    In other words, necromancers are the natural enemies of the Sacred Bloodline. Although I cant easily manipte the Sacred Bloodline like I can control corpses, if I were to face off against a Sacred Bloodline sorcerer of equal level, unless they were also highly skilled in necromancy, I am confident I could make it so they cant even summon their spirit, leaving them stunned and confused until their soul is extinguished and their body turned into a real corpse!


    Igor raised his eyebrows, skeptical of Harveys ims.


    Every school of magic practitioners will boast that their school is the most powerful. Just like Igor firmly believed mentalism to be the strongest school, Harvey hyping up necromancy so much definitely contained some exaggeration.


    This kind of because our school is so powerful we were suppressed im could be heard from almost every obscure school of magic.


    Langna had a simr attitude. As an exiled Moonshadow, he definitely knew more but was bound by his oath not to reveal anything.


    Ronat and Ashe both had Wow youre so powerful, I want to follow you looks on their faces. Ashe excitedly clenched his fist and said: Great, then when we break out, if Hunter Captain Gerard catches up to us, well leave him to you Harvey!


    Harveys expression stiffened. Although were natural enemies, its not to the point where I can fight three wings by myself


    Nicely done Igor nced at Ashe, thinking no wonder he could fraud a fraudster, he had knocked Harveys position down with several words. Under the guise of admiration, his words were full of sly verbal traps  was this the leader of a cults skill?


    Harvey changed the subject: However, while I cant contend with a true three wings Saint from the Sacred Bloodline, if my opponent is in a special dormant state, that would be a different story. For example the remains of a Sacred Bloodline sorcerer being used as a chip processor!


    What Harvey described next reminded Ashe of a term: biotechnology!


    Because of the nature of magic, the technology of this worlds mages was very advanced. Things like the chips on the backs of peoples necks were derived from mage technology. At most, the chips were peoples mobile devices, sending and receiving information, watching videos, listening to music, functioning as a locator  there were no problems using them that way. But wanting to control peoples behavior through the chip would surely exceed the chips capabilities.


    Those capability limits that were insufficient to meet demands were naturally filled by miracles. But those who could cast miracles could only be mages, and only needed to be mages.


    Even if the mage was dead, as long as certain conditions were met, they could still be made to cast miracles.


    The so-called chip processors were actually corpses of Sacred Bloodline mages whose souls had departed for the virtual world. The Sacred Bloodline mages used necromancy, alchemy, electromaism and other miracles to reuse these corpses, eventually turning them into terminal processors that could automatically receive and transmit chip signals!


    Not only was this environmentally friendly and energy saving, it was also imaginative, forcibly breaking through theoretical limits to let death row inmates prematurely experience technology that might not be invented for another hundred years.


    But Ashe was puzzled by one thing: If only mage corpses are needed, theres no need for them to specifically be Sacred Bloodline, right?


    This is my conjecture, Harvey said. Although the current Sacred Bloodline are corpses, their souls have not departed for the virtual world, and their bodies have endured. This leads easily to one conclusion  their souls remain inside their bodies, and most likely within their blood.


    Even if most of the soul has dissipated from the corpse, there are probably still tiny fragments remaining in the blood and flesh.


    Igor understood as soon as he heard: Resurrection?


    Harvey nodded. For the Sacred Bloodline, a corpse does not representplete dead. Bing a processor is probably an important step in some resurrection ritual, and not all Sacred Bloodline mages be processors  this might even be a privilege reserved for high-ranking mages.


    By the way, I specifically tested that when I open the chips light screen and doplex operations like watching videos or ying veil games, my soul energy shows obvious depletion, but quickly recovers, even mages can barely detect it. As for why it consumes that bit of soul energy, it can be exined as the chips power source, but can also be exined as the corpses nutrition.


    Listening to this made Ashe feel ufortable all over, and he subconsciously scratched the back of his neck. It was like everyone had a tube there, connected at the other end to a withered, decaying corpse that absorbed nutrients from the living every second.


    Ugh, gross! Ronat shuddered and suddenly rushed to the bathroom stall to vomit into the toilet  he was actually nauseated enough to throw up!


    Harvey put down the towel and turned to lean against the sink, facing them: So, are you willing to ept me joining you?


    At this point, even Igor couldnt find fault. Archibald, wee to the team.


    Hold on, let me verify something first, Harvey said. You have a way to remove the chips, right? Without removing the chips, this so-called prison break is just a bad joke.


    Igor nodded. We do.


    Good, then the n at least has a chance of sess. But before I join you, you must first sign a contract and promise me one thing -


    Necromancer, Igors voice turned cold. I admit youve provided some interesting information, but thats all it is, interesting. So far, I dont see how you can contribute anything to the prison break.


    While lightly patting Ronats back to make him vomit morefortably, Langna said: You said you can control the corpses used as chip processors. Does that mean you can directly change our chip permissions?


    Harvey shook his head: No, inmate permissions can only be changed using the Criminal Registry. Unless we can erase our records from the Criminal Registry, theres no way to reduce the chip restrictions.


    What use are you then? Igors expression grew more and more unhappy.


    While I cant reduce our restrictions, I can increase others restrictions. Opening shackles is hard, but adding shackles to others is easy.


    Harvey made a light slicing motion across his neck: The guards chips are also under the processors jurisdiction.

 Chapter 108: Time to Switch Places Behind Bars

    Chapter 108: Time to Switch ces Behind Bars


    Enforcing restraints on the jailers?


    Ronat, having spat out thest of his bile, wiped the corner of his mouth in disbelief. But they are not the prisoners!


    Why do you think that only the prisoners chips would have restraints added to them?


    Harvey sneered: Or perhaps, why do you assume that a regr persons chip cant have restraints?


    The Register of Sinners


    You were already under multiple restraints while you were detained in the Heresy Court, long before you ever signed your name in the Register of Sinners. Theres no essential difference between you and an ordinary person. The Register merely ensures that our restraints are permanent.


    Ronat muttered, I thought it was a hunter using a Miracle on me


    A chill rose in Ashes heart.


    This meant that everyone in the Blood Moon Dominion, whether ordinary citizens or sorcerers, wore a figurative noose around their necka shackle that could strangle them at any moment. If the processor received themand, it could control anyone within the area to do anything, even if it meant piercing their own throats!


    It was almostughable; Ashe had never trulyid eyes on the Blood Moon Dominion, nor had he met an ordinary citizen from there, but he had uncovered many secrets beyond the reach ofmon folk.


    It was as if he were observing the world through a crack, collecting fragmented keywords: multi-races, Human Rights Association, foster homes, Heresy Court, the Church, memory artisans, Blood Moon Tribunal, Woodpecker Gang These keywords pieced together a bizarre world that was democratic yet dictatorial, affluent yet impoverished, respectful of human rights yet invasive of privacy, indulging in entertainment to death yet harmoniously stable.


    It resembled a blood lotus blooming out of the mudradiantly tempting but exuding a rancid, sordid stench.


    Perhaps this had a lot to do with Ashes sources of information. After all, what beauty, truth, or goodness could he witness in a death row prison? Yet no perfect nation exists on earth; perhaps once Ashe steps out, he might find it alluringlying on a sofa, watching the Blood Moon Tribunal broadcast punctually every month.


    This is certainly not information that a mere cleaner should have ess to. Igor suddenly said: Who exactly are you? How did you manage to deceive the Heresy Court?


    I am just a cleaner, Harvey stated calmly. My duty is to deal with bodies, making sure they do not call for help, do not resist, and do not attempt to escape.


    A Controller!


    Something clicked for Ronat: There were some legendary murders in the industry in the past few years. Victims were murdered at home without any signs of struggle in the room, the bodies vanished without a trace, and among those victims were sorcerers This killer was dubbed the Controller, believed to wield a powerful controlling Miracle, even capable ofpletely stripping Two-wing casters of their ability to resist!


    You tter me, I simply exploit existing vulnerabilities. Harvey shook his head. As for how I evaded the Heresy Court, its simpleerase the memory first, then find a way to retrieve itter.


    Ashe was perplexed: If you can erase memories, then why not just delete all illegal memories outright? Wouldnt that result in an immediate release without charges?


    He cant, Igor exined. He specializes in the necromancy school, and most of his memories are tied to necromancy. If he deletes the memories rted to necromancy, its as good as making himself amnesiac; and if he deletes the memories of dealing with bodies without touching the necromancy part, the Heresy Court would definitely know hes erased his memorynecromancy cant be learned without dealing with corpses.


    This is the best oue he has calcted.


    Ashe voiced an understanding, Wait, if youve handled your memories in advance, does that mean you got arrested on purpose? Do you have a reason you had to be in Shattered Lake Prison? Like for Narbel?


    A cold draft suddenly swept through the sealed chamber.


    When Harvey lifted his chin, his malevolent gaze scanning the room, Langna immediately pulled Ronat behind himself, and Igor stepped forward to stand in front of Ashe.


    The chill made Ashes skin crawl, and even his breathing became constricted; his mind went nk.


    Was it the work of a spirit, or a Miracle?


    The wind was as swift in its departure as it had been in its arrival. Harvey lowered his eyelids, I can add restrictions to the guards, making it impossible for them to take any action, not even to send out an rm. Can this ability secure a promise from you?


    Lets hear your demand first, Igor proposed.


    After the prison break, youll help me kill someone.


    Who?


    Arandor Fernand Snow, Harvey released a name well-known to many: The current mayor of Caimon City.


    The virtual realm, the sea of knowledge.


    So, youve signed an unbreakable contract, not yet escaped, but already the powerful mayor is on your hit list?


    Yes, it just so happens we have a contract sorcerer in the team, theres no way we could agree now and betrayter.


    Wow, you even thought about reneging.


    Yeah


    After the escape, you could immediately band together with others to take down the necromancer, thus avoiding fulfilling the contract! The contract doesnt state that you cant harm each other, does it?


    Thats impressed, perhaps it should be you sitting in prison.


    In the midst of their casual conversation, the tattered umbre bird dragon that had been beaten to a pulp suddenly folded its wings and charged towards the white fog like a spinning umbre, throwing a spirit in the opposite direction as it did so!


    Swordswoman!


    Im on it!


    Ashe rushed over and grabbed the spirit, while Sonya ran right in front of the umbre bird dragon. Facing the umbre bird dragons fierce charge head-on, Sonya was utterly fearless. Taking up a sword receiving stance, strands of water flowed around her, glowing in the moonlight!


    The moment the umbre bird dragon touched the Moon Silk, Sonyas entire body tensed like a coiled spring. Her wooden sword traced out a perfect arc, unleashing a surging crimson sword aura!


    Miracle  Murderous Moon Reflection! A new miracle fusing the Murderous Sword into Moon Reflection to increase its power!


    The umbre bird dragons body was shed apart. With a resentful cry, it dispersed into wisps of smoke, dropping two spirits.


    Seeing this, Ashe sighed, Still no experience orbs. At this rate, who knows how long itll take for you to advance to a two-wing caster


    Sonya consoled, Theres no need to rush these things. Many casters say the Virtual World listens to our desires  the more we want something, the more it withholds it. But when we stop caring, itll send it our way.


    Sounds like the Virtual World is bitchy. .


    If you say two more words, Im afraid you wont be able to see the experience orbs again for the rest of your life.


    With the help of Virtual World Telescope and Eviction Venom, Ashe could now steadily look for knowledge creatures to hunt. In order to promote the Swordwoman to the Second Wing as early as possible, thus allowing himself also could be helped, Ashe had then specialized in searching for Knowledge Creatures that might burst out with experience orbs.


    However, after hunting the Chopper Dragon and Umbre Bird Dragon consecutively tonight, apart from bursting out a few Art Spirits, he couldnt see any sign of the Experience orb at all. Not only did this make Ashe a bit discouraged, at this rate, it was simply unrealistic to want to feed the swordwoman into a two-winged in ten days.


    Sonyay down in the canoe, directly resting both her feet on the edge of the boat, and saidzily, Masters basically rely on learning and sailing in the virtual realm to raise their factions realm, and once in a while, when theye across an experience pearl, they rejoice with joy, and if they cane across the experience orbs of their major faction, its even more of a bounty that can be bragged about for the rest of ones life. Using experience pearls to pile up the major faction realm? Ideas like this would beughed at by little children when you say it out loud.


    Ashe nced at the pair of slender legs swingingzily, and the sliver of white between stockings and skirt. Or is it just me, I feel like youve been more rxed around metely.


    Wh-what are you talking about, Im just taking a short rest because Im a little tired.


    But I remember you used to always sit properly even when resting, perfect posture and all.


    Sitting is nothingpared to lying down forfort. Hey, can you make the boat bigger, with maybe a leg rest? I wanna stretch out and put my feet in the boat, really rx with a good stretch.


    Dont get too carried away now, Swordswoman!


    What, its okay for you to act like a spoiled child but I cant stretch?


    Wh-wh-what acting! Ashe stammered in agitation, When have I ever did that! Dont go making stuff up!


    Sonya cleared her throat: My whole body feels light as a balloon, yet only a slender thread ties me to the ground. Swordswoman, to me, you are that thread''


    Hmph, you think youve got dirt on me? You think Im the sort who gets embarrassed over things like this?


    Then-


    But having your feet out like that, its easy to get your socks wet. Wouldnt want you slipping during battle. Actually, I know some foot massages  why dont you put your feet in myp?

 Chapter 109: “The Swordswoman and the Observer Break Up”

    Chapter 109: ��The Swordswoman and the Observer Break Up��


    But you still havent solved your most imminent crisis.


    Sonya rested her chin on her hand, Listening to you, the Blood Moon Tribunal on the 27th will definitely result in many deaths. What if you get put on the list for the Blood Moon Tribunal? It feels like some kind of omen  the more perfect your n is, the less likely youll survive to carry it out.


    Of course she didnt stretch her long legs over, it wasnt actuallyfortable lying on the boat since it wasnt a bed. She was just feeling yful and wanted to provoke the Observer a little, to test his tolerance limits towards her.


    The result was naturally very ideal.


    Soon, soon, the day she could free the Observer from his shackles and make him her own chariot was approaching!


    Ashe naturally didnt know about Sonyas wicked thoughts. His eyes were fixed on the virtual world map in the light screen as he said, Then lets just initiate the n directly, cause a massive prison riot.


    But we dont have a ship


    Even without a ship, there are other methods to get through the shark swarms in Shattered Lake. It will just require some bloodshed. The biggest inconvenience without a ship is not being able to get ashore safely. When we arrive, there will definitely be hunter squads surrounding the escaped death row convicts. Although its basically impossible to escape, its still better than waiting to die in the Blood Moon Tribunal.


    Sonya nodded. This was indeed the best option in the worst case scenario. However, in her mind she refreshed her perspective of the Observer a little. Because ofst nights coquetry, she thought the Observer was someone indecisive with delicate thoughts. She didnt expect that when it came time to be ruthless, he would be just as decisive.


    Even though Sonya said easily in front the Obeserver, but in truth, if she was locked up in Shattered Lake Prison, facing the heavily guarded isted institution controlled by chips, she might not have the resolve to attempt a prison break, let alone n a riot.


    Because a prison break was more than just breaking out of prison, it was resisting national institutions and challenging the ruling ss. Even if she seeded in escaping, what awaited her would be endless pursuit and manhunts. Every time she opened her eyes she would have to face ubiquitous malice. Even in the sprawling city there would be no safe ce for her.


    Compared to death, such suffocating pressure was perhaps even more terrifying.


    However, while the Observer sometimes revealed his weaker side, he was unambiguous about the prison break. He knew the might of Blood Moon Kingdom well, he was even captured by the Blood Mad Hunters himself. He knew even better about Blood Moon Kingdoms strong control over society, and he knew the precarious life of constantly looking over his shoulder that awaited him after the escape.


    Yet in his words, he never revealed a shred of fear towards Blood Moon Kingdom.


    Sonya could only attribute it to the self-confidence brought about by his revival of the strong, or perhaps


    He was fearless by nature.


    Theres an adolescent sh Fish Dragon up ahead, wanna take it down?


    Lets do it! I just thought of an amazing opening move, maybe we can knock out the sh Fish Dragon in one hit.


    As the small boat cut through the white fog, Sonya soon started getting scattered senses: the sound of fish scales scraping the sandy ground, the sh Fish Dragons bubbling, the smell of the sea Although not as perceptive from a distance as the Observer when it came to cognitive creatures, Sonyas Expel the Arcane Venom allowed her to collect biological information about cognitive creatures through the fog, letting her prepare for battle early. Her right hand lightly grasped the hilt of her sword.


    Huh?


    The small boat suddenly took a sharp turn, instantly dissipating all the momentum Sonya had gathered. Sheined, What are you doing?


    There was some excitement in Ashes voice. I discovered a very strange ce behind the sh Fish Dragon, it might be a Miracle Isle.


    In the Virtual World Map, he saw silvery radiance spreading out behind and to the right of the sh Fish Dragon, forming a sparkling prompt:


    Come quickly!


    Weve finally encountered another Miracle Isle? Sonya straightened her back, This time we must round up all the spirits! Not a single one can escape!


    But as they drew closer to the target area, Ashe and Sonya both felt something was wrong  the fog here was as dense as milk white, visibility lowered until Ashe and Sonya in the small boat couldnt even see each other!


    More and more knowledge flowed into their consciousness. Ashe was fine, but Sonyas mind shed continuously as she felt she had broken through one barrier after another in her swordsmanship, quickly resolving all her current difficulties. All that was left was to practice it in reality to confirm her thoughts and ideas!


    Sailing through the virtual world absorbing the fog itself increased faction experience. Although Ashe and Sonya had both awakened their Silver Wings, unable to continue aggregating arcane power, their swordsmanship factions that hadnt broken through to gold level could still gain experience from absorbing the fog.


    However, these fog experiences were very subtle, often only taking effect when the sorcerer researched or did battle. Fog as rich as this that allowed sorcerers to continuously break through obstacles was almostparable to Experience Orbs!


    Thump.


    The moment the small boat stopped, the fog in front of them roared open, revealing the small ind hidden within.


    The next second, Ashe and Sonyas expressions changed dramatically!


    If there were cognitive creatures, sorcerer projections, or other sorcerers on the ind, they wouldnt be so shocked.


    However, what entered their vision were two chairs!


    Two!


    They exchanged a nce. Ashe instinctively lowered his voice to ask, Do you know what this ce is?


    No memory of it. Should we leave? Sonya was also a little cowardly.


    Their fear was natural. If it was just one chair, they definitely wouldnt think much of it, but two chairs meant this ind knew two people woulde!


    Yet besides the two of them, all the sorcerers in the virtual world travelled alone!


    It was like when travelling in an unfamiliar city, suddenly finding a hundred dor bill, only to discover upon closer look it said: Hello Ashe, take this and spend it.


    That chill and fear of being watched by an unknown existence, anyone would be afraid.


    Ashe took another look at the Virtual World Map to confirm it really did say Come quickly. Determined, he steeled himself to go ashore: Dont be scared. At worst we just give up a life in the virtual world. Weve both awakened our Silver Wings anyway so theres no real loss if we die.


    But what if its another certain death situation like Expel the Arcane Venom?


    Trust me!


    Seeing Sonya was still reluctant, Ashe directly pulled her onto the ind  he was afraid too, he needed someone to pany.


    The chairs were very ordinary chairs. They exchanged another nce before taking a deep breath and sitting down together.


    Nothing special happened. The chairs didnt grow tentacles to tie them up either.


    A whileter, they sensed something and lowered their heads, only to find a piece of paper on theirps that hadnt been there before.


    The instant they picked up the paper, they knew the game rules: Answer the questions that appear, answering incorrectly immediately ends the game, answering correctly allows you to continue answering. If the number of correct answers is greater than or equal to 1, the answerer gains the right to ask questions.


    When Sonya looked at the paper, rows of words emerged:


    Question  Multiple Choice: What is the fundamental reason the Swordswoman and the Observer broke up?


    1. The Swordswoman hates the Observers coldness


    2. The Observer believes the Swordswoman is beyond control


    3. Unequal division of spoils


    4. All of the above

 Chapter 110: Let’s Break Up Now

    Chapter 110: Let��s Break Up Now


    I remember now, Sonya murmured. This is the Destiny Questionnaire.


    Destiny Questionnaire?


    She nodded slightly. This is a very rare virtual world mechanism thates in many forms. What weve encountered is the simplest paper questionnaire version. If we answer correctly, we can ask the virtual world any question and it must provide an answer.


    We can ask anything? Ashe said in surprise. So if I ask how to attain immortality and invincibility in this world, it would also answer?


    Yes! Sonya nodded affirmatively. But the quality of the virtual worlds answers depends on the number of your correct responses. The more you answer correctly, the more detailed its answers will be.


    In fact,pared to the reward of asking the virtual world questions, most sorcerers actually value the Destiny Questionnaire itself more  because the questions asked in the Destiny Questionnaire are about the sorcerers future.


    Questions about the future?


    Right. The questions here are about things the sorcerer has not yet experienced, so theres no way for them to know the correct answers. They can only infer based on the past to guess the future. Sonya looked at the paper and said softly, Its said that whatever future is mentioned in the Destiny Questionnaire will inevitably be reality.


    Ashe uttered an oh and said, Whats your question then?


    Sonyas pupils suddenly constricted. She spoke as if nothing had happened, I dont want to tell you.


    Why not? Wouldnt discussing it together make it easier to find the right answer?


    Oh please, dont pry into a girls privacy, how disgusting, Sonya said in feigned disgust.


    Sorcerers still care about privacy


    Ashe grumbled, seeing Sonya intentionally covering the paper. He thought she was really shy, but suddenly felt something was off.


    When it came to power and her future, the swordswoman had never been ambiguous. Although she asionally had a bad temper, there was no denying that she was a good teammate, never dragging the team down in virtual world explorations. Whenever she needed to contribute, she did so without hesitation.


    The Destiny Questionnaire was undoubtedly an extremely rare opportunity. In this situation, would the swordswoman really refuse to cooperate due to shyness and prefer to answer incorrectly rather than discuss it with Ashe?


    Maybe for others, but the swordswoman was someone who could shout You have no dreams but can protect my dreams in front of him. Her greed was even recognized by the game, with Bond Resonance  Greed being the best proof of her ambition.


    Moreover, Ashe and her were from two different worlds,no matter how many of her secrets Ashe knew, it wouldnt affect her reality one bit. Putting on an act of purity in front of Ashe was useless anyway.


    It was as if aser beam pierced his head and Ashe had a sh of insight. Is your question rted to me?


    Sonyas body froze.


    She knew now was the best time to deny it. She should contradict it with humor, disdain, and astonishment, then disgustedly throw out a Stop prying into a girls privacy! to dispel all his doubts.


    Just lie, just conceal, only consider her own interests, and nip anything unfavorable to her in the bud.


    But for some reason, she, who was usually slick with words and cunning, hesitated for a moment this time. It was this brief pause that robbed her of the possibility to conceal it.


    Perhaps she was influenced by the Sincerity spirit


    Sighing inwardly, Sonya nodded, Yes.


    I knew it. Ashe muttered and pondered, Its rted to me and you, and youre unwilling to tell me, could it be written above that


    Sonya immediately tensed up.


    Youve fallen in love with me?


    Are you so sleep deprived that youre dreaming with your eyes open? Sonya said impatiently. How is that possible!


    You denied it so adamantly, it really makes one suspect Hey hey, were answering destinys questions here, what sword are you wielding, put it down, youre disrupting my test taking! Ashe righteously admonished Sonya, then lowered his head to look at his question. If youre not willing to say, then dont say it, as if Im very curious.


    Arent you curious?


    Of course Im curious, Id love to trick you into turning around and snatch your question to read it. Ashe saidnguidly. But youre unwilling, I cant offend you now just for the so-called destiny.


    When its very likely the destiny written above wille true, dont you want to know what will happen between our future?


    You shouldnt ask me this question, you should ask yourself. Are you willing to share your future with me? Ashe said.


    Sonya was slightly taken aback, holding up the paper to cover her mouth, she shook her head, Not very willing yet.


    Alright then. Ashe shrugged and lowered his head to look at his question.


    After a moment, he asked again, Really not willing? If youre unwilling, Ill ask againter.


    Sonya barely held back augh, giving Ashe an irritated look. The corners of her lips curled up slightly, her long eyshes trembling cutely, her eyes forming crescent moons. Her brows were full of charm, making Ashe think she had used some kind of beauty spell.


    Youre so annoying, she grumbled. Alright alright, since I cant guess the answer anyway, lets discuss it.


    Didnt you actually want to chat with me all along


    Listen to the question! Multiple choice, what is the fundamental reason for the swordswoman and observers split? 1) The swordswoman hates the observers aloofness, 2) The observer believes he cannot control the swordswoman, 3) Unequal distribution of spoils, 4) All of the above.


    Ill split up with you in the future? Ashe was also intrigued. Split up, this is the first time Ive heard this term in real life. It sounds like something that would only appear in a stage drama.


    The most severe deration of cutting ties Ashe had heard was I wont y with you anymore. Words like split up were generally used between two major powers, ordinary people didnt have the qualifications to split up, divorce was more fitting.


    Tell me, are you thinking of controlling me, and will resent me when you find out you cant control me?


    How is that possible, you might as well consider whether your impression of me is biased. I dont look like some hot-blooded youth at all. As a mature member of society, isnt being aloof an excellent traditional virtue? How could you resent my aloofness?


    So I dont think its option 1 either, Im more inclined to think its 3, unequal distribution of spoils.


    Are you insinuating theres a problem with the current spoils distribution system?


    No problem now, but after you break out of prison, your appetite may grow. Who knows what will happen then


    Pfft, I see youre the greedy one making unreasonable demands. For the greater good I have to tolerate you, but eventually cant stand it anymore and have to part ways with a freeloader like you!


    Speak conscience, from the beginning until now, which battle was I not the one contributing the most, outputting the most damage? Tsk tsk, observer, youve revealed your foxy tail. You must be nning to reduce my share of the spoils in the future!


    Even if I adjust the shares, it will certainly be for good reason. Ive always been fair and impartial, never doing underhanded things


    Who was it saying just now that if selected for the Blood Moon Tribunal, they would incite a massive prison riot? Who was it~?


    Although they were discussing very serious future matters, the two spoke lightly and jokingly, causing Sonyas mood to gradually rx.


    She had been worried that bringing up this destiny question might cause the observer to be suspicious and resentful, but his attitude dispelled all her concerns.


    Many things were like this  when you dont see it as a problem, it ceases to be a problem.


    1 is wrong, 2 is wrong, 3 is wrong. Sonya said impatiently, Then which option do you think is correct?


    I actually dont think any of them are correct answers. If I split up with you, there must be another reason.


    What reason?


    For example, youre not strong enough.


    Sonya was startled. What do you mean?


    That is, you might not be able to keep up with my pace of improvement in the future, Ashe said. Then I meet an operator stronger than you, naturally youll be useless.


    This was the most sensible reason in Ashes opinion  although there was only the swordswoman operator for now, that didnt mean shed be the only one in the future. Wasnt it very normal for initial characters to not keep upter in gamey for a mobile game? There would surely be stronger operators to draw in the future, then Ashe would naturally stop putting the swordswoman in his team.


    Sonya was so angry her hands and feet turned cold, her shoulders trembling. So you want to abandon me because Im not strong enough?


    Not abandon per se, just that you might not be suited to me then, could even drag down my progress. For both our sakes, wed have to temporarily part ways, itd be better for you and me


    No need to wait for the future, lets split up now!


    Huh? Ashe was taken aback.


    Was this Destiny Questionnaire so effective it became real right away!?

 Chapter 111: Because of Love

    Chapter 111: Because of Love


    Are you sure you want to pick option 4?


    Why not? I feel like the first three options are all possible, but notpletely possible. In this kind of situation, choosing All of the above has a high chance of being correct. Trust me.


    Sonya didnt have any objections either. She was also unsure which was the right answer, although she felt option 3 was more likely. But the future was full of uncertainties, so using the past to infer the future was actually very unreliable. Since the Observer was now strongly advocating for option 4, thenshe would go with 4  she could me him if it was wrong.


    With a thought, Sonya ticked option 4. The paper immediately glowed with a rainbow shimmer as the words began to change


    Congrattions, you answered correctly. Would you like to continue answering questions?


    It was actually right! Even Sonya was surprised.


    See, I told you to trust me. Im confident when ites to blindly guessing multiple choice questions, said Ashe, once a legendary anti-overstudying king in college. Whats the next question?


    As Sonya chose to continue, the words on the paper transformed to reveal the second question:


    Question: Multiple Choice  What was the reason the Swordswoman and the Observer reconciled after their falling out?


    1. For a greater good.


    2. To counter amon threat.


    3. Because of love.


    4. All of the above.


    This time it must be 4 again


    Impossible! Sonya vehemently shook her head. Option 3 is definitely wrong, so it cant be 4.


    Ashe spread his hands, the corners of his lips curving like a crescent moon. Oh my, this is something that could happen in the future, not something that will definitely happen. Why are you being so shy about it? Just answer the question of fate with an open mind


    Sonya was on the verge of snarling. Then you should sort out your own emotions first! I can clearly hear the smugness in your tone that youre unsessfully trying to hide!


    After bickering for a while, Sonya looked back at the question and pondered for a bit before speaking, It should be option 1  if its for a greater good, we could temporarily set aside any past grievances, no matter how serious they were.


    Ashe didnt try to mess with her and nodded seriously. Youre right, option 1 is the most likely. And the chances of having the same answer for two consecutive questions is low.


    It wasnt just because of the principles of guesswork, but also logical reasoning  Ashe felt option 1 was the most sensible. Firstly, the Observer and the Swordswoman had already fallen out, so how could two estranged people possibly have romantic love? Other thanmon interests, what could bring them together?


    After spending so many days together, Ashe already knew the Swordswoman was someone who prioritized interests above all. As for himself, an old social animal doesnt talk about interests, does he talk about feelings?


    After briefly conferring, Sonya decided to choose option 1. But when she willed it, the words on the paper glowed with a murky, turbid light  clearly an ominous sign:


    You answered incorrectly. The fate questioning ends here. You may now begin asking your question.


    They got it wrong!?


    Both Ashe and Sonya were stunned. Considering there were only three other options left, and two of them contained because of love, that meant there was a two-thirds probability that they would reconcile in the future because of love!?


    On second thoughts, perhaps option 2 is also likely  two estranged people setting aside their differences to counter amon threat


    Yes, I think so too.


    Their awkward attempt to forcibly change the topic made the atmosphere turn stilted, even veering into ambiguous territory. Sonya quickly switched topics again: So whats your question?


    Ill keep it simple. Ashe looked down at the paper.


    Question: Short Answer  Who did Sylin Dole see before he died?


    Speaking of which, why was your question multiple choice while mine is short answer?


    Probably because of the time frame, Sonya guessed. If its a question set too far into the future, with my current limited knowledge, it would be impossible for me to deduce the right answer. So fate questioning gives me options to choose from, at least giving me a chance to guess correctly. Your question is probably set closer to the present, so you should be able to guess it yourself without options.


    She paused for a moment: This Sylin, is he the hidden killer you mentioned before?


    Yes, Ashe said. So the answer is obvious.


    Ashe focused his mind and wrote: Sylin Dole died after seeing Ashe Heath.


    The words on the paper morphed into a rainbow glow: Congrattions, you answered correctly. Would you like to continue answering questions?


    After Ashes input, the paper disyed a second question:


    Question: Short Answer  How did the Observer escape Blood Moon Domain after breaking out of prison?


    Ashe ryed the question to Sonya. She was somewhat confused: No multiple choices? That means you should be able to deduce the right answer based on what you currently know. Did you guys n an escape route for after the prison break?


    Does surviving in the wilderness count?


    To be honest, Ashe and the others hadnt really thought about how to escape after the breakout  anyway, they would all just go their separate ways and mind their own business after getting out, no need to discuss ns with others.


    For amnesiacs like Ashe who was in the dark about everything, he had no other choice but to disappear into the remote wilderness and live like a savage. But Igor, Langna, Ronat and even Harvey were all local snakes, they probably had private safehouses and wouldnt want to share escape ns with their prison mates.


    Do you know of any ways to leave Blood Moon Domain then?


    Nope, I dont even know where the borders of Blood Moon Domain are right now. Ashe lookedpletely lost.


    Unable toe up with anything concrete through discussion, Sonya pondered: Since we cant think of anything, lets just pick one of the mostmon options  either impersonating a legal identity and leaving by normal transportation, or finding smugglers to leave the domain illegally, with smuggling by sea being the mostmon illegal method


    Impersonation wont work, there must be chip scanning to use any transportation in Blood Moon Domain. After getting my chip removed, I wont imnt a new one. Ashe said. So it has to be illegal channels. Compared tond transport which can be easily intercepted, escaping by sea does seem more likely Alright, lets go with that!


    The Observer escaped Blood Moon Domain by boat after the prison break!


    The paper made a scoffing sound, spewing out wisps of gray mist, as if mocking Ashes stupidity:


    You answered incorrectly. Fate questioning ends here. You may now begin asking your question.


    Ashe and Sonya had expected this oue and werent too disappointed. After all, with zero clues, just blindly guessing based on logic meant the chances of getting the right answer were extremely low.


    But Sonya was still puzzled: That cant be right. If fate questioning asks a question the Sorcerer cant answer, isnt that just petty bullying? You must know how to escape Blood Moon Domain, you just cant recall it at the moment.


    Maybe the virtual world heard me cursing it just now and is deliberately targeting me.


    Well you definitely deserved it But the fact that even the virtual world thinks you can seed in breaking out and leaving Blood Moon Domain means you dont have to worry about the Blood Moon Tribunal.


    Ashe realized she was right  not only this question, but the previous ones about how Sylin Kahl died and the falling out between the Observer and Swordswoman also proved that Ashe wouldnt just end up as tomato sauce at the Tribunal. Otherwise, how could he even have a future?


    This was the greatest benefit of fate questioning  you could indirectly learn about your own future circumstances through the questions, which provided tremendous value in assessing your current situation.


    With the questioning over, it was now time to ask their own questions.


    Looking at the paper in their hands, Sonya said: Our questions cant be too outrageous, its best to keep them within the scope of the White Silver wing. Although theres little information about fate questioning, there is one universal rule in the virtual world  you reap what you sow. Since we only got one question right, the reward from the virtual world definitely wont exceed that.


    Ashe nodded: Its best if the answer directly increases ourbat power, since the second Blood Moon Tribunal is approaching. Every bit of extra strength increases my chances of survival.


    Speaking of which, both of them were struck by inspiration at the same moment and excitedly said to each other:


    The golden fish!


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    Ko-Fi: /hoxionia


    You can rate this series here.

 Chapter 112: Myself from a Different Time is Not Myself

    Chapter 112: Myself from a Different Time is Not Myself


    Based on Ashe and Sonyas situation, asking the Golden Fish was undoubtedly the most cost-effective choice.


    Spirits  theycked them, but Fates answers could not simply hand over a spirit directly. This was a Q&A, not a wish granter.


    Miracles  they were notcking much in this aspect, and with their number of correct answers, the Virtual Realm would most likely not provide a detailed miracle form at most, only pointing them toward a specific direction of miracle research.


    As for quickly improving the proficiency level of their spellcasting disciplines, the fastest method would undoubtedly be taking Experience Orbs. And the origin of Experience Orbs were creatures of knowledge. The Virtual Realm could at most point them toward suitable creatures of knowledge, not directly taking an orb out from such a creatures body and giving it to them.


    After thinking it through, the three factors of spirits, miracles, and proficiency provided only decorational improvements. What truly determined a sorcerersbat power were undoubtedly the number of virtual wings and the level of arcane energy!


    As long as they advanced to two wings, they could adventure in the Time continent and obtain two-winged spirits!


    As long as they advanced to two wings, their arcane energy could continue growing!


    As long as they advanced to two wings, Ashe could use his golden arcane energy to fully activate the two-winged spirit Sword, greatly increasing the defensive power of the Miracle Sword Barrier. This would provide greater assurance when breaking out of prison!


    The reason Ashe was so eager to improve the swordswomans sword mastery to golden grade was that he hoped after she advanced to two wings, she could bring him to smuggle into the Time continent. And now there was an even better smuggling opportunity!


    Of course, if they directly asked the Golden Fish, the Virtual Realm would definitely not provide a very detailed answer.


    However, there was an obvious loophole in the Fate Q&A  no matter how many correct answers a sorcerer had, if the question was a matter of right or wrong judgement, the Virtual Realm would definitely provide the right answer!


    For example, if a sorcerer was stuck in their research on a certain miracle, and had tried all possibilities leaving only two directions A and B, then asking the Virtual Realm whether direction A was right, the Virtual Realm could only answer yes or no, naturally also knowing whether direction B was right or wrong.


    If it was a master logician, they could even construct aplex right-wrong judgement question to have the Virtual Realm eliminate multiple doubts for them.


    For example, if Ashe asked Will I see the swordswoman sleeping beside me when I wake up one day 10 yearster?, with the key points being one day 10 yearster, wake up, and swordswoman sleeping beside.


    Wake up was a necessary element, Ashe could not stay in the Virtual Realm every night, sleeping inzily was a luxurious and wonderful enjoyment that Ashe definitely wanted to experience asionally.


    And swordswoman sleeping beside was a controble element, Ashe couldpletely remember this and have her act it out and sleep beside him in the future.


    The only uncontroble element was one day 10 yearster.


    If the Virtual Realm answered yes, then naturally there was nothing more to say, Ashe could directly confidently call the swordswoman his wife.


    If the answer was no, there were two possibilities  either Ashe and the swordswoman had broken up by then, so the swordswoman refused to even act it out; or the Virtual Realm believed Ashe would not live past 10 more years.


    Therefore, when the Virtual Realm was stingy with its answer quality, asking right-wrong judgement questions was the most cost-effective choice, at least it would not provide useless information.


    After briefly discussing, they decided to ask the Virtual Realm different questions in session:


    Does the Golden Fish need to be seen through a specific ritual?


    Questions like Where is the Golden Fish or How can I find the Golden Fish would definitely not get a detailed answer. The Virtual Realm would mostly answer with correct nonsense like In the Sea of Knowledge or Use your eyes to look for it.


    These two questions actually originated from Ashe and Sonyas guess  Sonya had asked Professor Trotzam before, the Time continent was also an extremely vast ce, not much smaller than the Sea of Knowledge. Logically, the Time continent was so big, then the Golden Fish should also be very huge, but why could sorcerers not see the Golden Fish in the Sea of Knowledge?


    With the precedent of Whirlpool Venom and Expulsion Venom, they naturally associated and guessed that the Golden Fish was likely non-existent in the Sea of Knowledge. Only when a sorcerer activated the Virtual Realms mechanisms through a specific ritual would the Golden Fish appear before the sorcerer.


    Yet the answer greatly shocked them: No.


    The Golden Fish did not need a specific ritual to be seen? That meant the Golden Fish also existed in the Sea of Knowledge right now?


    After briefly discussing, they asked the second question:


    When does the Golden Fish float up from the seabed?


    In any case, Ashe and Sonya were certain that encountering the Golden Fish through normal sailing was impossible. After all, even Ashe who held the Virtual Realm Map had never seen any trace of the Golden Fish, let alone other sorcerers.


    Since it was not on the sea surface, then naturally it was sunk at the seabed. And adding on that the Golden Fish did not need a specific ritual to be seen, they guessed the Golden Fish may periodically float up from the deep sea to the surface. So they directly asked the Virtual Realm when the Golden Fish would float up, and they could try their luck finding it then.


    Because it was not a right or wrong question, they were very nervous about whether the Virtual Realm would randomly spew nonsense.


    The result still greatly shocked them: The Golden Fish has always been floating on the sea surface.


    The Golden Fish has always been floating on the sea surface, and can be seen without any specific ritual?


    Although this conclusionpletely contradicted Ashe and Sonyas experiences exploring the Virtual Realm, they had no choice but to believe it. If the Fate Answers mentioned the future which may not happen, but their question about the Golden Fish was information the Virtual Realm definitely possessed. The Virtual Realm was the authority in this!


    Could it really be just our bad luck that we have never encountered the Golden Fish?


    Although incredulous, Ashe could only ept this conclusion. At this time the paper disintegrated into light smoke and disappeared, while their chairs also suddenly vanished, almost causing them to fall on their butts.


    Back on the small boat, watching the Fate Q&A ind sink, Sonya murmured: Feels like we totally got ripped off, didnt get any useful intel at all.


    At least I know I can escape Bloodmoon alive. Ashe was quite rxed. To him the Fate Answers were just a windfall opportunity. Gains were of course good, but no gains just opened his horizons: And in the future we will also break up for various reasons, then get back together for some other reasons


    Since we experienced the Fate Answers, the future may not necessarily happen that way! Sonya red at him. Theres also always been a saying that many prophecies in Fate Answers were never fulfilled, but those who knew died before the prophecies happened, so no one knew of these invalid prophecies, thus there were no records.


    If you die, then Ill report this precious case regarding Fate Answers to the school. Maybe I can earn some credits


    Survivorship bias, not bad Ashe spread his hands: So do you hope the propheciese true, or hope they donte true?


    Sonya snorted lightly: I only believe prophecies beneficial to me, unfavorable ones are all lies.


    Its you.


    What about you then?


    Me? Hmm, how do I put this I dont care about the prophecies themselves, but I look forward to confronting them.


    Confronting? What do you mean?


    Let me think how to exin this to you Swordswoman, do you think the you now and the you 30 yearster would be the same in personality, values, ideals, habits etc?


    Sonya thought for a bit then shook her head: Should be different right? Im not even 20 yet, 30 years is longer than my entire life until now. Many changes would definitely happen.


    Ashe nodded: Then if the soul of you 30 yearster suddenly took over your current body, can it be considered the 30 yearster you killing the current you?


    Sonyas brows knitted slightly, looking a bit unsettled: Can think of it that way, I guess?


    If you extend the taking over process to 30 years, where through the prophecy you know 30 yearster there is a Swordswomanpletely different from you in all aspects, yet you still inevitably be the Swordswoman of the prophecy. Can that be considered the prophesied Swordswoman slowly killing you over the 30 years?


    Most people wouldnt think that way.


    But dont you think its very interesting? Ashe spread his arms: If you didnt know the prophecy then forget it, but since you know the prophecy, its like a future you has appeared. Only one of you can survive, either she kills you, or you kill her, no second possibility.


    The only difference between prophecy and taking over is the time span. Taking over happens instantly, so you feel its the future Swordswoman killing the current you, but for prophecy its long days and nights where the future you uses time to sculpt the current you into your likeness.


    Sonyas lips moved slightly, seemingly wanting to retort but didnt say anything, probably thinking how to refute him. Ashe continued asking:


    Have you heard of a game where children write a letter to their future grown up selves?


    Heard of it, Ive written one too.


    What do you think, when the grown up adult reads that letter, would they feel its like a final will?


    Why would they think so?


    Because they arepletely different people, vastly different in thoughts, habits, values, ideals, yet they once lived in the same body. Isnt that like thetter killing the former?


    Sonya shook her head repeatedly: But they are the continuous same person, this change is called growing up, not taking over!


    Ashe smiled: When the child wrote the letter, its like freezing the him at that instant in time on the letter. The soul on the letter broke away from the continuum of time, bing an independent unchanging individual.


    Isnt this very simr to a prophecy? The prophecy pulls out a future you from a certain point in time to show you. Isnt that like the future you writing a letter to the current you?


    Myself from a different time is not myself.


    So I dont care about prophecies, but I look forward to confronting them. Of course, things that are clearly about to happen soon like me going after Sylin after breaking out dont really count as prophecies. But if in the future we really break up for those random reasons, then it means the prophesied Observer killed me, the prophesied Swordswoman killed you.


    Ashe suddenly pondered: Speaking of which, why does the reason for getting back together contain romance, but the reason for breaking up doesnt include broken rtionships? Could romance have only sprouted after breaking up, both sides realizing how indispensable the other is


    Sonya snapped back to reality and said with a red face and gritted teeth: That would mean we got back together not because of romance, but to unite againstmon threats!


    Alright alright, no need to get worked up.


    Im not worked up!


    Okay okay okay, youre right, we should go kill a sh Dragon to liven up the mood.


    After hunting two more creatures of knowledge, not only were there no Experience Orbs, Sonya also failed to intercept an escaping creature of knowledge. But such mistakes weremon, Ashe didnt mind. They bid farewell and exited the Virtual Realm together.


    Upon her consciousness returning to her body in the meditation room, Sonya took a long time to recover her bearings, the Observers words still echoing in her mind.


    Actually, after growing closer, Sonya couldnt help but harbor doubts  was the Observer really the reincarnation of a mighty one like she had imagined?


    Mainly because the Observer did not resemble a legendary figure at all  he did not pursue power, did not love learning, even his desires were shallow. If ced in Swordflower College, this kind of person with no potential, a mediocre and inferior passerby, Sonya would not even nce at.


    But the Observers speech just now made Sonya realize he was absolutely no ordinary person, even if he was now, he would not remain so in the future.


    That madness wrapped in logic, that wickedness vastly different frommon sense, Sonya had witnessed many times in Psychoanalysis of Malicious Sorcerers. Malicious sorcerers were not all evil people, many were even content with mediocrity and having families. But once their lives were shattered by idents, they would shed their old selves like cocoons into butterflies, daring to trample all earthlyws and morals, and chase the light in their hearts like moths to mes.


    She recalled the opening words of that book


    They did not change, only awakened.


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 Chapter 113: The Heartbroken Seeking Advice on Love Issues from a Single Dog

    Chapter 113: The Heartbroken Seeking Advice on Love Issues from a Single Dog


    Swordflower College, Mori Library.


    Although it couldntpare to the four Libraries of Truth at Trinity College, the Mori and Hana libraries at Swordflower College were also considered one of the top scenic spots in Cailleach  in terms of book collection, Mori and Hana libraries couldnt even make the top ten in Cailleach, but in terms of thefortable and pleasant environment, Mori and Hana libraries were the undisputed top two existence in Swordflower College, enjoying the reputation of Number One Dating Spot.


    Unlike the vibrant and dazzling Hana Library, Mori Librarys theme was Tranquil Forest. From the outside, it looked like a lush forest, with small bridges over streams, mating rabbits, squirrels nibbling on pine cones,fortable breezes blowing through the trees, and everywhere were cozy swings, benches, treehouses and even bears  yes, there were very friendly bears inside that you could lean on their bellies and read.


    To Sonya, the most magical thing about Mori Library was that there were no mosquitoes.


    This was truly shocking to the country girl who grew up in an agricultural town and often went into the woods to pick mushrooms for extra meals when she was little.


    But of course, to provide afortable reading experience, many functionalities of the library had to be sacrificed. The books were all stored in the tree trunks. Mori Library had four floors in total, connected by winding trunks. Peopleing here for the first time could easily get lost even with a map.


    Sonya wasnt new to Mori Library and she knew how to ess the navigation index through her Miracle bracelet, but it still took her quite some effort to find the books she needed.


    When she wanted to find a bench to sit down and read, she unexpectedly ran into her archenemy.


    Hello, senior sister.


    Seeing Sylvia walking towards her, Sonya felt the third-year senior looked slightly more haggardpared to their first meeting, but it didnt detract from her beauty. On the contrary, it added a touch of endearment to her that made people want tofort her when seeing her. The male students nearby were the best proof, looking at this direction with one eye while reading with the other.


    Sylvia was also a bit surprised. She nodded lightly and stopped when passing by Sonya. Last time I caused you trouble.


    Yeah, how are you going topensate me?


    Sonya realized she had already ended the Sincerity ritual and didnt need to tell the truth anymore  but whether it was the lingering influence of the Sincerity spirit or the past few days, she still blurted out the truth when she was supposed to equivocate and lie.


    Sylvia was taken aback for a moment, then smiled with a hand over her mouth. Then let me buy you a tree juice?


    There was a water cafe in Mori Library, and the drinks there all had forest themes, like Tree Juice, Flower Nectar, Morning Dew, etc. Although the names didnt sound appealing, they were actually sorcerer drinks made by watermage students as part-timers, with sweetness and texture far superior to ordinary drinks, and cheaper than outside too, very popr among students.


    Since Sylvia wanted to ease the tension between them, and Sonya had no direct conflict of interest with her, she readily agreed to go to the water cafe with her and ordered a Dew Dropping on Grass des.


    Im sorry. Sylvia said after sitting down. I was too impulsivest time and didnt think through anything. If theres anything I can do topensate you, please let me know and Ill try my best.


    Seeing that Sylvia was sincerely apologetic, Sonya also softened her tone: Although you were 99% at fault, Im not without 1% fault either. Perhaps my actions misled you By the way senior sister, I saw you yed the third female lead in My Child Bears My Surname, you were so amazing!


    Sylvia naturally understood her intent and was a bit surprised: My uncle was the director and screenwriter of that film, so he let me make a cameo Sonya, are you interested in bing an actress?


    Yeah! Sonyas eyes lit up: I actually read some performing arts books in private too.


    Although very shocked that Sonya didnt aim to be a swordsaint, Sylvia didnt say anything more. Catering to her interest, she promised to ask her uncle to arrange a good role for Sonya if possible.


    For others, my uncle may not be willing, but youre now the disciple of Hidden Hands Swordsaint, the fastest sorcerer to unfold the Silver Wings at Swordflower College. Just this background alone can give you a lot of attention, its extra promotional resources. But if you dont leave the audience with an impression in the film, youll quickly fade into obscurity.  Sylvia said seriously: The most I can do is provide you with an opportunity, whether you can seize it depends on your own efforts and luck. But my uncle doesnt have any filming ns recently, so you may have to wait a long time.


    No problem, I still have three years before graduation!


    The two hit it off and the atmosphere became much more harmonious. After chatting about campus life for a while, Sylvia shyly asked, I heard he is still single now?


    What else could it be, could he have turned into a dog?


    Sonya naturally knew who Sylvia was talking about and nodded: I havent seen any other girls around him anyway.


    Then you


    Absolutely not.


    Sylvia breathed a sigh of relief. At this moment, their drinks arrived. Sonya took a sip of the Dew Dropping on Grass des and found it surprisingly milkily fragrant, like milk tea, but the texture was fresh instead of cloying. She thought it would be great if she could be a watermage.


    Though if her roommate became a watermage, she could also mooch some drinks from her, but Iris and the others didnt seem very interested in bing sorcerers


    Sylvia hesitated and said, This is different from his past self In the past, he would always start a new rtionship after ending one


    Mm-hmm.


    Do you think he might still be thinking of me?


    Sonya almost spat out her drink. She barely managed to keep a straight face and felt a bit of pity seeing Sylvias longing yet apprehensive look.


    Through the Sincerity summoning ritual and her experiences as a sorcerer these days, Sonya vaguely sensed that Felixs behavior of attracting admirers was probably some kind of ritual, or a necessary condition to resonate with spirit.


    Once Felix became a sorcerer, he immediately broke up with all his girlfriends and never went to those entertainment venues again, spending every day either studying or training hard instead. Sonya didnt think the virtual world had the ability to correct his worldview, so this could only mean Felix was just pretending before. Naturally he no longer needed to pretend after bing a sorcerer.


    But there was no need to tell Sylvia all this. Firstly it was just Sonyas spection, and secondly, Sylvia still had a chance.


    Sylvia really had excellent qualities  long ck hair, delicate features, tall and slender figure, and even her bust size was just right, just a bit smaller than Sonya. Most importantly, she genuinely liked him. Who could resist the pursuit of such a pretty, pitiful senior with long ck hair?


    Its possible!


    You think so too!


    Sylvia said happily, Then what do you think I should do to get back together with Felix?


    Hmm, lets see Sonya suddenly recalled the questions she encountered in Destiny Quiz: For greater good? To resist amon threat?


    Seeing Sylvias slightly confused expression, Sonya remembered they were still students. There was no need forplicated reasons to get back together: Actually, you just need to actively walk into his life, and he wont reject you either. Of course, dont directly aim for getting back together. You can say you want to resolve misunderstandings and be friends first. If needed, I can create coincidental encounter opportunities for you.


    Yeah!


    As long as you be close again, many tactics can be used. Sonya smiled. For example, the woodpecker tactic.


    Woodpecker tactic?


    That is, during your interactions, you can suddenly sigh for no reason. When he asks whats wrong, you say its nothing. Or you can suddenly fall silent while chatting, asionally act dispirited, to make him worry about you, but you dont exin the reason. Then you also need to rely on him and act coquettish from time to time, to make him feel like you cant live without him. Through such frequent emotional prodding, in the long run you can achieve shallow emotional control. By then, your every sigh and move can make his emotions fluctuate, with all his attention focused on you. This is what I call the woodpecker tactic.


    Speaking passionately, Sonya went on to teach: If you sessfully get back together, you can move on to the second step, negative emotion transfer and positive emotion control. Simply put, whenever you feel unhappy, you must share it with him and make him feel unhappy too. But if he encounters something happy and wants to share with you, and its not something you like, then you should deny him and repress him. In short, dont let him feel happy when you are not, and even when hes happy it can only be within the scope you allow.


    The third step is time distortion. When he treats you well, you must remain calm and make him promise to keep treating you this way for the rest of his life, prolonging his effort to a lifetime, making his devotion seem natural.


    Thenbined with the fourth step, historical projection, when he bes cold towards you, you can invoke projections of his past to prove he has changed his heart. Of course, as long as he is willing to apologize, you should also give him some sweetness.


    As long as you grasp these four steps, Felix will definitely be yourpdog, the perfect partner!


    Sylvia blinked as she listened. After Sonya finished, she smiled and asked, Sonya, have you been in a rtionship before?


    Sonyas face turned red. No. Im sorry, I was too arrogant, bbing all these useless personal shallow insights in front of senior sister


    Sylvia gently shook her head. No, these tactics are very practical. If it was in the past, I would have been very happy to learn and use these tactics.


    But love is a kind of miracle. She said softly. I dont want to hurt him, or see him unhappy. I just hope I can stand by his side.


    Sonya was taken aback. She now noticed the books Sylvia was holding  Sword Wind Abyss, Support Handbook for Windmages, Rmended Battle Wind Spirits for Windmages. They were basically all about how windmages could assist swordsages inbat.


    Sylvia smiled and said, Still, thank you for your advice. I may have to trouble you again in the future, can we add each other on Curtain Call?


    Of course, no problem.


    The two exchanged their personal Curtain Calls and could now directlymunicate through the Miracle bracelets.


    Sylvia looked at the books Sonya had: Speaking of which, Sonya, are you nning to self-study the Mind sphere? But these two seem


    Dream Interpretation and Psychological Language Interpretation were must-read books for the Mind sphere, but the other two puzzled Sylvia a bit: Days with a Sinmage and How to Relieve Others Psychological Stress.


    The former was simr to adventure fiction, while thetter, though rted to the Mind sphere, leaned more towards a practical guidebook and didnt help much with studying the Mind sphere.


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 Chapter 114: The Arrival of Starchild

    Chapter 114: The Arrival of Starchild


    Sonyas lips moved slightly, and she soon smiled and shrugged: I was just passing by and thought the titles of these two books looked interesting, so I picked them up to take a look. Theres no particr purpose. Ill put them back if they turn out to be not good.


    Sylvia nodded thoughtfully: You dont have to exin it to me in such detail


    Seemingly aware that Sonya was feeling flustered, Sylvia changed the topic: Actually I was quite surprised to run into you here in Mori Library. I thought you had joined the annihtion operation too.


    Annihtion operation?


    Yeah, didnt Professor Trotzam mention it to you? Oh right, your growth has probably been so rapid that the professor would rather have you miss this opportunity than take the risk.


    What is the annihtion operation? The termpletely stumped the country bumpkin.


    Sylvia thought for a moment: I dont really know the details either, since its a covert mission for gifted students that the school privatelymissions. Those without adequate skills wont even get an invitation, and students who sign the contract are forbidden from divulging any information about the operation.


    The only reason I know is because Lorein signed up for it too I heard from him that Leone is participating as well, so I assumed you wouldnt be absent either.


    She added after a pause: I heard its a special event involving young sorcerers across Cailleach, with even the genius sorcerers from Trinity College taking part!


    Not only senior Leone, but even the top elites from Trinity College were willing to participate in this event!?


    Sonya instantly felt she had missed out on a tremendous opportunity, but she understood it was only normal  the name alone indicated this was a dangerous operation that would involvebat.


    Even though she was now a sorcerer with the full Silver Wings, she had also only been a novice sorcerer in the virtual world for less than a month. Whether to protect her or to prevent her from dragging the team down, Professor Trotzam would never have allowed her to participate prematurely in such perilous actions.


    I still have to get the professor to recognize my abilities as soon as possible, or I wont get a shot at many opportunities. Sonya thought to herself.


    Bloodmoon Kingdom, outskirts of Caimon City, halfway up a hill.


    Shift change, everything normal.


    It was 10 a.m. The two adventurers responsible for observing the virtual gateway lightly tapped the back of their necks and reported softly. Soon, two other adventurers emerged from a tent halfway up the hillside camp, and the two teams switched shifts.


    The younger adventurer had barely stood there for a while before he started grumbling: Pops, how much longer do we have to stay here? The weathers getting hotter, and its bad enough theres no cold air, but the mosquitoes are crazy too. Even the heavy-duty repellent doesnt work!


    12 more hours. If the bunny doesnte back in 72 hours, we can be sure its dead.


    The adventurer beside him wearing a cloak replied in a robotic, emotionless mechanical voice. On closer look, his arms, thighs, and even one eye were not organic but mechanical prosthetics.


    If not for the generous credit from thismission, Id rather be in the war zone killing some sea ghosts. The young adventurer muttered: If you ask me, whoever caused this virtual fissure ought to just die already. Its adding to our workload and poses a threat of foreign invasion


    Only sorcerers can trigger chaotic virtual flows. There are currently 86 unknown virtual gateways around Caimon City, the older man said, which means 86 sorcerers triggered the chaotic flows. One of them could be you. Its reasonableing from others, but youre a sorcerer yourself.


    The young mans voice shrank: I was just saying Cant youin a little too, Pops?


    Just as Ive epted that I dont have the aptitude to be a sorcerer, I ept these natural disasters caused by them, the older adventurer shook his head slightly. I grew tired ofining by the time I was forty.


    The young man changed the subject: Pops, what are you spending your credits on this time? Ive saved up enough to exchange for the de spirit. Now I can try taking on cognitive beings too.


    Looks like you havent spent much and your gear is still an outdated old version. Are you saving up to exchange for thetest essories? If I werent reluctant to modify my body, Id like to get a Silver Wolf Arm too.


    The older man nced at him, the cold gaze of his mechanical eye giving the youth the creeps. But he quickly shifted his eyes to focus on the virtual fissure thirty meters below like a depression in space.


    Im using the credits to purchase some intel.


    What intel?


    Intel on my child.


    What childisnt that illegal?!


    I know, thats why Ive been saving credits for so many years. Otherwise they wouldnt take the risk.


    Youre insane! The youth was shocked. Why go through all that fruitless trouble? If anyone finds out, youll both end up exploring the sewer abyss in a pig cage!


    The older man shook his head. Of course not. The child should have been born 31 years ago. I dont even remember what the woman looked like. I just want to see him once.


    The youth could notprehend it. Whats the point of seeing him once? With that many credits, you could improve yourbat strength by two levels if you spent them on yourself. You could trip on moon sugar for a year, gamble it away, spend it on fun  why use it just to see a stranger once?


    Hes not a stranger, hes my child.


    Hows that any different from a stranger? You have to pay just to find out what he looks like and what his name is.


    But hes my child. He exists because of me.


    I dont get it. You might as well give the credits to me.


    Youre a sorcerer, and still young. You dont understand. I was like you when I was younger, spending money on moon sugar and gambling it away at First Blood casino, going transform for mods. But as I grew older, those entertainments lost their thrill for me, and I lost interest in tomorrow.


    Then one day I remembered  when I was young I had a child with a woman to earn the birthing subsidy. It was like the sky suddenly lit up. I found my purpose in life  to see that child once.


    Youre a sorcerer. You can explore the virtual world, research spells. But I cant. If not for 70% full cybeic mods, I wouldnt qualify to be an adventurer in the war zone. I cant even cross the threshold of magic for something as easy as gunmanship.


    They say sorcerers pursue miracles. That child is my miracle.


    The older man pointed at his left eye. I didnt rece this eye so I can see my child with my real eye.


    The youth muttered softly: Still dont get it


    The older manughed mechanically: Dont try to understand. What Im doing is illegal.


    Bang!


    The young man was sent flying violently and swore in confusion: What the hell, Pops


    The words stuck in his throat the next second.


    Because he saw an orange-haired girl in dark blue armor standing where he was a moment ago.


    The girl stood on the older mans body, her longsword dripping red and blue fluids. The older mans head had been severed, his mechanical spine snapped open, spurting red blood and blue machine oil!


    The youths pupils contracted as alerts popped up in his vision: Threat detected


    Snap!


    By the time Lorein lopped off the young mans head, the other two resting adventurers in the camp had also been dispatched by the other annihtion team members.


    Soon, one hundred and sixty-three annihtion team members gathered at the campsite. They all wore dark blue armor, and their weapons were without exception specially forged alchemical items. Even the martial artists wore spiked gauntlets! But in the few seconds since their arrival, blood-red shackles of light had appeared around their necks, making them look like walking light pollution.


    There are four rules to the game.


    First, kills must bended with Starchild weapons to gain points.


    Second, try to survive 48 hours without getting killed.


    Third, try to kill as many targets as possible. Humanoid monsters take priority, rest are secondary. Sorcerer monsters take priority, rest are secondary.


    Fourth, everyone must activate the armors Miracle Transfer when times up to return here. The Starchild will destroy this Level 2 virtual fissure 48 hours from now.


    The sacred stars connect us all, the starlight will guide our path. Let the game begin!


    Their pupils all glowed with a faint purple-blue rim. At themand, everyone saluted in unison, then scattered simultaneously!


    From above, one could see only a handful of blue dots moving north and south toward viges, while most of the blue dots advanced westward toward Caimon City!


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 Chapter 115: The Mayor Falls

    Chapter 115: The Mayor Falls


    When hurt enough, use a hand to cut open freely, the curse of yesterday


    As the energetic prison bell rang, Ashe got up, washed up, and brushed his teeth while pondering Swordswomans strange behavior the past two days.


    Instead of idle chatter, Swordswoman suddenly asked Ashe many targeted questions in the virtual world, such as his favorite color palette, how to make friends, whether he prefers mystery thrillers or horror thrillers, and even asked if Ashe preferred big breasts or small breasts, leaving Ashe very confused  isnt the answer obvious? Who doesnt like big breasts!?


    Moreover, Swordswomans attitude towards Ashe changed four times in one night  sometimes gentle and considerate, sometimes cold and aloof, sometimes sexy and flirtatious, and sometimes innocent and cute.


    Ashes thoughts were  it would be even better if she could change her clothes along with her personality switches.


    When Ashe asked Swordswoman what was going on, she said nothing was wrong, leaving Ashe nervous.


    He racked his brains and figured Swordswoman couldnt possibly be psychologically testing him. Other than that, he could only think of one possibility  that Swordswoman was having her monthly menstrual cycle.


    Carefully thinking it through, moody, talkative, curious  it did seem to match a womans characteristics during menstruation. Other than marveling that a paper doll also gets her period, Ashe didnt think too much of it.


    Opening the light screen, Auroras Sorcerer Handbook immediately popped up a message:


    Death Maniac Swordswomans training has ended. Please check the growth report and set this weeks training strategy as soon as possible.


    Death Maniac Swordswomans Growth Report 4/19  4/25


    Swordsmanship School: Silver  Silver


    Light School: Silver  Silver


    Water School: Silver  Silver


    Mind School: 0  Silver


    Arcane Energy: Half Silver Wings  Full Silver Wings


    Training Evaluation: A!


    Due to obtaining an A evaluation, Death Maniac Swordswoman gains the Sorcerer Handbooks career enhancement: Silver Sorcerer of Annihtion  Silver Sorcerer of Soul Shattering.


    Silver Sorcerer of Soul Shattering  Career Trait: Each effective attack deals an additional 1% soul damage.


    This new career trait made Ashes eyes light up. The enemies in the virtual world were undoubtedly spiritual bodies, which meant Swordswoman could deal additional true damage to them. Along with Swordswomans high attack speed, the cumtive extra damage would be considerable.


    The arcane schools didnt grow much. Over the past two days, they had only obtained a water arcane gem, which was fed to Swordswoman, so her water school naturally remained at the silver level.


    If not for the mind school advancing from 0 to silver, and the arcane energy breaking through from half wings to full wings, the training evaluation wouldnt have reached A. But Ashe still felt resentful  why wasnt there a growth report for his Apocalypse Observer? He also wanted to get career enhancements from the handbook and change to a new career!


    Until now, his job was still the useless cult leader! The Four Pirs blessings had never taken effect!


    Ashe checked his points. Although they had hunted many knowledge creatures these days and obtained many arcane spirits, because Swordswoman said she needed money on her side to purchase arcane spirits, the spoils were split 60% to Ashe, 40% to Swordswoman.


    After exchanging all the unused arcane spirits for points, Ashe now had 124 points, still unable to purchase the Bag of Source Crystals worth 198 points.


    Without the summoning ritual, Ashe directly arranged Swordswomans training strategy for next week. Originally he wanted to max out her swordsmanship training as usual, but thinking that Swordswoman needed rest during this special time, he pondered for a bit before deciding to let Swordswoman rest for an hour, today only.


    Ah, it pained his heart. Was this what it felt like to be a boss, as if he had lost a lot of money just by letting his employee rest?


    Ashe quickly executed the training strategy before he regretted it, then went to the cafeteria for breakfast as usual. But he discovered the central hall was crowded with people  another recruitment for volunteers (cannon fodder)?


    But no, the inmates were just gathered together watching the news on the halls light screen, even Igor was staring intently at the screen.


    Ashe went over and asked Igor, Whats the news say? Did the citizens finally gain a conscience and decide to boycott the inhumane Blood Moon Tribunal?


    Even more shocking than the citizens gaining a conscience. Igor kept his eyes fixed on the screen, murmuring, Fernand Snow is going down.


    Who?


    The Mayor of Caimon City, hes going down!


    Ashe was slightly startled, and also turned to watch the news.


    The current estimated death toll has already exceeded 10,000. Countless were killed and injured in New Yichen City. Fires broke out in multiple ces in the downtown area, with corpses and bloodstains covering the streets. They may have been office workers, shopping couples, future legendary sorcerers, or ordinary hardworking people, but at this moment, because of an invasion that should not have happened, they have be pale corpses.


    On the screen, a beautiful female host with refined features stood atop a tall building. She looked somewhat simr to Igor, with charm in her brows and eyes, seeming to have some subus blood. She had a circle of cute pink-purple fur around her sleeves.


    But right now she looked extremely indignant, with anger suppressed in her voice: Everyone, look. Behind me is Caimon Citys most prosperous downtown area, but what can we see now? Ruins, mes, corpses, bloodstains, exposed steel beams, broken dolls-


    Caimon News is a mouthpiece for the Church and the Research Institute. Igor said softly. When the host shows obvious political leanings, it means the Blood Moon races want to offer up a scapegoat to quell the peoples anger.


    Its been forty hours since the first attack. We cant help but ask, why hasnt the Heresy Court captured the attackers yet? Why are there still attacks happening today? Why is downtown still a high-risk area, to the point that even medical teams dont dare go in to treat the injured?


    Where did our tax money go, who squandered it? As the area rated to have the best public security nationwide, why did we suffer such a disaster? We ordinary people living and working happily in Caimon City, why do we have to encounter such misfortune?


    Why were there organized,rge-scale attackers from other nations able to infiltrate Caimon City? What is the Administrative Bureau hiding from us?


    We need answers, the dead need answers! Someone must take responsibility for this disaster-


    St!


    Seeing the screen sttered with blood, the death row inmates in the central hall gasped. They were used to seeing deaths in the Blood Moon Tribunal, but seeing the host get hacked up live was a first.


    The live feed went dark, but quickly switched to a new scene.


    This time, the backdrop was a clean, tidy, stylish office. Sitting behind the desk was an ogre in a dark formal suit  yes, an ogre. He had no fangs, neatly trimmed nails, and his looks contained no ferocity at all, in fact he looked rather amiable. But he was undoubtedly a blue-skinned ogre, as evidenced by the huge chair, big enough to seat two Ashes, that he sat on.


    When he spoke, even Ashe was stunned.


    I am Caimon City Mayor, ndel Fernand Snow. The ogre spoke heavily. It is with grieving heart that I inform everyone, the number of innocent lives lost to the terrorist attacks has reached 13,000. The Heresy Court is operating at full capacity, and the Administrative Bureau has also mobilized nearby Lake Scenery War Zone adventurers to assist in capturing the attackers, in hopes of apprehending them soon.


    These attackers came from other nations through the virtual gateways to the Blood Moon. I have to admit, I must bear some responsibility for this. Joint research on investigating the virtual gateways was a decision made by the Administrative Bureau, Parliament, Heresy Court, and Lake Scenery War Zone together. If the Administrative Bureau could have made moreprehensive ns and prudent judgements originally, perhaps


    Hes still not giving up. Igor sneered. Hes threatening the other conspirators, that if he goes down the rest wont end up any better. He can lose, but doesnt want to leave.


    Therefore, I am willing to ept the Heresy Courts investigation, temporarily step down from the position of Mayor, with the deputy mayor Guro taking over mayoral duties.


    Finally, Fernand Snow stood up and bowed deeply. I sincerely apologize for the failures in my work.


    Oh!


    Hahaha, Fernand Snow youve got yours today!


    Sessive cheers sounded in the central hall. Although the Noise Ordinance prevented loudughter, so many people celebrating at once still filled the hall with a joyous atmosphere. As expected, only seeing others suffer misfortune could bring genuine happiness to these scumbags.


    But Ashe saw that even the normally calm Igor had red ears and could barely restrain his smiling, and couldnt help asking curiously: Igor, do you have a grudge against Fernand Snow? Even if youre gloating, youre not so happy, are you?


    Igor grabbed Ashes shoulders. You dont understand? The mayor has fallen! Hes being charged by the Heresy Court!


    Ashe felt confused. I heard that, so what?


    It was clear Igor wanted to personally attack Ashes intelligence, but the chip prevented his rude behavior.


    After holding it in for a while, he finally said in an excited, suppressed voice: While in office, if the mayor faces serious charges and has to immediately step down, to ensure his personal safety and prevent suicide, the mayor would be detained in the nearest Blood Moon prison for isted investigation.


    Ashe recalled that he had also heard this rule when discussing the right way to escape with the doctor.


    Ashe vaguely realized something. You mean


    Igor stared straight at Ashe, eyes shining as if wanting to suck Ashe in.


    Without waiting for next months transport ship, when Fernand Snow is escorted to Shattered Lake Prison, that will be our chance to escape!


    So when will Fernand Snow be detained at Shattered Lake?


    Generally its as soon as possible, but hell definitely have to spend a night at the Heresy Court first, to modify the authority restrictions in his chip beforehand. In other words


    Ashe and Igor looked at each other. Tomorrow, the 27ths Blood Moon Tribunal!


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 Chapter 116: I Almost Really Became a Swordswoman

    Chapter 116: I Almost Really Became a Swordswoman


    Swordflower College, Training Hall


    When Sonya stopped, time seemed to freeze in the entire training hall.


    The apprentices looked at this genius swordswoman in astonishment, ncing down at the time on their bracelets to confirm it was only 9pm.


    She had only been training for an hour, so why did she stop?


    Although she had only been training in the hall for two weeks so far, Queen Therave had undoubtedly be the most dazzling sight in the eyes of the sword apprentices  the unshakable two hours of evening training, with no breaks, full concentration, perfect form. Just watching her train dripping with sweat was a visual treat.


    Not to mention Queen Theraves profound swordsmanship skills. Many apprentices would sneak peeks during their free time, suddenly gaining insights and deepening their understanding of swordsmanship, increasing their shing ring count. It was eye candy and knowledge rolled into one.


    Strangely, Swordflower College had no shortage of sword geniuses, from Leone and Lorein before, to Felix now, but their training did not attract the apprentices gazes.


    Firstly, their training times were irregr. Secondly, they took breaks during training. And thirdlythough there was no way to articte it, everyone just felt Sonyas swordsmanship was a cut above the rest.


    So the training hall had been packed every night recently. When Sonya entered, the apprentices barely dared to breathe, greeting the queens arrival with admiring eyes.


    Yet tonight the queen had changed her training routine for the first time?


    What could make someone so obsessed with swordsmanship alter her unchanging daily training?


    Indeed, it wasnt just the students  in everyones eyes, even the professors, Sonya Therave was a swordsmanship genius born for the de, gifted with exceptional talent and a passion for swordsmanship. Even after achieving great sess (defeating Felix, turning the tables on Leone, unleashing the Silver Wings), she did not forget her original intention, persisting in intense nightly training. If that wasnt called love?


    These youths in the prime of their lives naturally jumped to the same thought: Could the queen be in love!?


    As the apprentices focused their indignant gazes on Felix, almost igniting him, Felix himself also felt quite helpless  he was equally curious why Sonya had stopped.


    In fact, Sonya herself was the most confused.


    She had long grown ustomed to the two-hour training, obediently starting on her own when time was up, without needing the Observer to force her.


    That familiar ss bottle filled with unknown medicine had appeared on her desk this morning. After drinking it, shed been bursting with energy all day, not feeling tired even during intense swordsmanship training.


    Moreover, the training was quite enjoyable. Every swing of the de, every sh, gave Sonya a hint of indescribable pleasure.


    As this pleasure umted bit by bit, it turned into an inexplicable, aberrant craving. Only by ying cognitive beings in the virtual world, feeding their bodies to the swords edge, could she slightly appease this hunger.


    Sonya didnt think too much of it. She figured it was a side effect of the medicine the Observer made her drink. After all, this craving did have some enhancement effect during hunts, improving her damage output. So the Observer was clearly the prime suspect.


    Surely she herself couldnt be a bloodthirsty maniac craving battle!


    Although Sonya no longer resisted training, she couldntplete it by willpower alone. Probably after half an hour, she couldnt maintain focus. The rest relied on the Observers mysterious power to make her train automatically.


    Thus, when she suddenly stopped after an hour, Sonya immediately realized what had happened  the Observers power forcing her to train had vanished.


    What was going on?


    Could the Observer suddenly have grown a conscience?


    No, unlikely. Then did the Observer die?


    Although specting wildly, Sonya wasnt too worried.


    The recent Fate Q&A, several questions showed the virtual world held the Observer in high regard, so at least he couldnt have suddenly dropped dead in prison.


    Speaking of whichwhat should I do next?


    Sonya nkly looked at the wooden sword in her hand, trying to recall her previous nightly activities.


    Though it was just half a month ago of peaceful life, it felt to her like the distant past.


    Nothing else nned anyway, why not keep training swordsmanship? Practicing is quite fun


    Sonya was frightened by the thought that popped into her head  Heavens! Given the chance to rest, yet she still wanted to practice swordsmanship?


    No, cant train, cant do what the Observer wants! If he knows Im so obedient, hell only increase the training intensity. Even just to oppose the Observer, I cant train!


    Its too scary, I almost really became the swordswoman the Observer spoke of.


    I want to be a songstress, a shadow mistress, but I absolutely dont want to be some swordswoman!


    First, get out of the training hall. Even just going back to lie in bed watching Dahliastest shadow y is better


    Just then, cries of surprise sounded from the training hall entrance. Sonya looked over and saw a sh of brilliant orange hair  it was the Orange Dancer Leone!


    Sonya, trainings over? Got time to grab a drink with me?


    Although theyd fought before, Sonya had both saved face and gained benefits, and Leone had apologized afterwards.


    Shed heard Professor Trotzam had taken on two new disciples, plus she was close with Lorein, and caught wind Lorein wanted to make trouble for Felix, so she took the chance to test the caliber of the new first-years.


    Ultimately it was just a petty dispute between students. The other side had actively apologized and given gifts, so Sonya wouldnt insist on feuding with a promising, future sword saint over this. Plus Leone was a very straightforward, traditional female swordsmaster  simply put, easy to take advantage of.


    Such high-quality, renewable social connections, Sonya naturally wouldnt pass up. A few exchanges rapidly warmed up their rtionship. Still, seeing Leone take the initiative to find her, she was quite surprised: Senior Sister, you came looking for me specially?


    Yup, just got back not long ago, still excited and wanting to grab a drink. Happened to pass the training hall, so dropped by to see if you were here. Leone grinned, then turned to Ingritt beside her: Ingritt, want to join? My treat!


    As Sonyas roommate who trained with her unfailingly every night, Leone had also seen Ingritt a couple times and thought quite highly of this diligent female apprentice.


    Ingritt shook her head: I dont drink, and tonights training isnt over yet.


    Thought so.


    Leone looked towards Felix watching them and smiled: Girls night out, no boys allowed, Felix.


    I dont like drinking either. Felix said lightly: Rather, a swordmaster actually liking alcohol is whats hard to understand.


    Thats because youre still students. Once you step into the Abyss, experience battles, youll understand even the sharpest de needs alcohol to maintain it well. Lets go, Sonya!


    Seeing Leone and Sonya leave, the sword apprentices universally breathed sighs of relief  great, turned out she was just going drinking with the Orange Dancer. Our Queen Therave remains a pure, untainted maiden.


    Your dorm?


    Id love to, but my roommate probably wouldnt like it. Leone shrugged. Lets go to the Secret Garden.


    The Secret Garden was Swordflower Colleges only bar. Sonya had gone before, but the drinks were expensive. As someone who had to count every penny, after going once shed generously told others for future invites, Im very poor, so I wont go. Even if treated, she wouldnt attend. After a few times, they changed the gathering spot to a more affordable tea house.


    The poor female studentbel, when useful, had to be utilized.


    But now things were different, she had money. Even if treated by Senior Sister this time, Sonya could find a chance to return the favor. She had no hesitation epting the invitation.


    The biggest difference between wealth and poverty was that wealth allowed openly epting others goodwill.


    The Secret Garden had a faintvender fragrance. There wasnt a singlemp inside, the ceilingpletely open to bring in starlight through mirrored designs, illuminating every corner brightly yet mystically dim.


    Soothing, melodious music drifted gently through the bar. A three-person band yed on stage, likely music students working part-time for pocket change during their free time. Students and couples sat in circles chatting and sipping, the atmosphere quite nice, putting Sonya at ease as well.


    One screwdriver, one summer day. Leone ordered very smoothly, bringing Sonya to a small booth and dropping the curtains to block outside sights.


    Senior Sisteres often?


    Every time I return from the Abyss, to numb myself with alcohol, how could I bear that kind of stress?


    Oh~ I thought Senior Sister was the extremely, extremely tough type.


    Even the toughest need to find suitable ways to dpress. Drinking like me is already quite normal. I have a teammate who likes streaking in the streets after every mission, you must have heard that urban legend right?


    Ah, so that city rumor was true, how scary~


    Let me tell you, dont spread this, but actually


    Listening to Leone recount all kinds of amusing Abyss adventures, Sonya also couldnt help getting excited.


    She also shared her recent virtual world experiences, and even omitting the Observers hacks, just the cognitive beings she had hunted and sorcerer legacies she had witnessed kept Leone engrossed. Leone would asionally chime in with her own experiences battling cognitive beings, thebat insights of a fellow swordmaster very valuable. Sonya learned a lot.


    [Sonya gained some swordmanship experience]


    Chatting gossip, chatting the Abyss, chatting the virtual world, their cups emptied unknowingly. Sonyas face was flushed as she tipsily asked, Senior Sister, did you participate in some special activity a couple days ago?


    The words were barely out when she regained her senses and hurriedly apologized, Sorry, that was tactless of me.


    Casually discussing the virtual world was fine, but events requiring confidentiality contracts, how could she ask about it casually? To put it severely, Sonya was testing the Orange Dancer, tempting Leone into making a mistake.


    Leone smiled and shook her head to indicate it was nothing, but she thought for a bit and said, Although I cant give detailsthat event was actually a game organized by the Church.


    A game?


    Mmhm, have you yed the roleying games on the bracelet before? Simr to those.


    The Miracle bracelet had many functions. Ordinary people could not only connect to the Curtain tomunicate with those thousands of miles away, sorcerers could also leverage the braceletsputing power to create all kinds of Curtain games, allowing ordinary people to enjoy entertainment provided by sorcerers too.


    As a result, Illusion sorcerers able to develop bracelet functions also rose with the tide. Sonya had also considered choosing Illusion, but being unfamiliar with Curtain games, she ultimately picked Water in the end.


    Sonya rarely dabbled in Curtain games, and it wasnt that she disliked them  she just didnt have the money.


    A poor country bumpkin like her only deserved to grind away at textbooks, not enjoy high-end entertainment. Her spiritual life was fully satisfied by watching shows.


    Hearing Sonya shyly admit she hadnt yed any, Leone was a bit surprised. She exined with a smile, I was ced in apletely virtual illusion, full of monsters for us to kill. The more monsters killed, the higher the score, and the richer the rewards from the Churchthe entire gamested a full two days two nights, it was exhausting.


    Sounds quite interesting. Sonyas interest was piqued. Were the enemies strong?


    No, not strong, some very weak, even unable to flee. Only asionally were there sorcerer-level monsters chasing methey would even cry and beg for mercy


    Leones voice grew softer, her expression more and more nk. Sonya casually responded, Sounds pretty rxing, ughtering some weak enemiesSenior Sister? Whats wrong?


    Leone snapped out of it: Nothing, maybe just a little tipsy.


    You were talking about the game monsters just now right?


    Of course, what else would I be talking about? Waiter, another ire cocktail here!


    Parting with Senior Sister, Sonya ambledzily towards the Meditation Tower.


    Ah, it had been so long since shed had such an enjoyable night.


    First was pleasant sword training, then drinking and chatting with a friend. Next, as long as she could test out the new miracles shed researched in the virtual world, nicely ughter a few cognitive beings, tear them into shreds with her de, make their blood bloom like flowers, it would be a perfect day


    Huh?


    Sonya lifted her head. Without realizing it, the white spire had vanished, the swirling virtual chaotic flow suspended in midair also gone. The radiance of the stars poured down on the college campus like rain.


    The white spires disappearance meant campus lockdown was lifted. sses resumed tomorrow


    Sonya sat in the meditation room, tipsily summoning her spirit, finding the Door of Truth, sinking into the virtual world through her consciousness connection.


    Opening her eyes to look at the Observer, Sonya foolishly smiled, Let me tell you, tonight I


    This is myst night apanying you to explore the virtual world.


    Sonya instantly sobered up.


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 Chapter 117: You’re Really a Nasty Observer

    Chapter 117: You��re Really a Nasty Observer


    The virtual world, the sea of knowledge.


    Now everything is ready, tomorrow is the day we enact the n.


    Ashe checked the virtual world map while steering the small boat, and said, If the prison break fails and I get caught back by the hunters, then naturally everything is over and things will remain the same. But if I seed in escaping, then I must be vignt at all times. Until I can confirm my safety, I cant enter the virtual world.


    Sonya nodded,pletely understanding the observers thoughts.


    Exploring the virtual world takes at minimum 4-5 hours and up to 8-9 hours. The observer who follows a regr schedule in prison can naturally log into the virtual world on time, but escaping means not only does he have to find a way to make a living, he also has to avoid the hunters pursuit as much as possible. How can he possibly have 4 hours or more of safe time to enter the virtual world?


    She breathed a sigh of relief, You scared me, I thought


    Ashe raised his eyebrows, Thought what? That I was going to abandon you?


    Sonyas small eyebrows furrowed, looking pitiful and charming as she pretended, Yes, Ive discovered I cant leave you anymore. Just thinking that I wont see you for the next few days, I feel empty, lonely, cold, and so sad I could almost cry Oh right, since youll be busy, does that mean we have to stop my training too?


    Of course not, the training continues as usual. Although I wont be here, Ill still supervise your training. Speaking of which, you should have rested for an hour tonight right? Thats a one-time reward only for tonight, back to normal tomorrow.


    Well arent you so very kind.


    Youre wee.


    Sonya harrumphed and stared at the observer, legs crossed. So when will you be back?


    After I can confirm my safety. Ashe said, Didnt you see in the fate answers that I may leave the Bloodmoon Kingdom? If I seed in breaking out, I n to look for a way to leave the Bloodmoon Kingdom.


    So theres no specific timeline


    Mm.


    Sonya tilted her head to one side, watching the wisps of white mist drifting by. She asked softly, Is there anything I can help with?


    Didnt you say before you wanted to be a songstress? How about singing a song for me to hear?


    You


    Haha just kidding. Asheughed, Lets not hunt knowledge creatures tonight, and specifically look for sorcerer projections instead.


    Sonya understood instantly: You want to read other sorcerers manuals through their projections, to find more clues about the golden fish?


    Ashe nodded slowly, Based on our progress, even if we get experience orbs from hunting knowledge creatures, its still not enough for your sword skills to break through to gold rank.


    Even if we get a rare spirit, it cant be immediately integrated into mybat system and does little to improve mybat strength.


    We only have one night left, the golden fish is the only choice if we want a breakthrough.


    Although the two of them had hunted many knowledge creatures these days, most of the spirits were either used by Ashe to allocate points, or sold by Sonya to earn a bit of cash on the side. Very few were kept for their own use. The most important reason of course wasunsuitability.


    Despite grasping four disciplines of swordy, water magic, light magic, and telepathy, for the bizarre spirit world of the virtual world, what they had encountered was barely the tip of the iceberg, at most a drop in the ocean. It wasmon for the spoils of war to not contain spirits of disciplines they specialized in.


    Even if they got spirits of the same disciplines, most likely it would be unsuitable. For example, swordy spirits like Vibrating Sword, Continuous Sword, Poison Sword represented three different directions  relying on high frequency vibrations to increase destructive power, increasing attack speed for continuous shes, or imbuing the de with special properties.


    Apart from the swordy discipline, Vibrating Sword needs the sound magic discipline as support, Continuous Sword means having to train in the weak constitution discipline to improve physical fitness, while Poison Sword signifies the need to study the poison magic discipline as well.


    The time a sorcerer would need to invest to delve deep into any small direction is difficult to estimate, possibly even requiring involvement in other unfamiliar disciplines. If the spirit is used superficially without thorough understanding, the effect would certainly be inferiorpared to abat system that the sorcerer had carefully researched and developed, such as the destructive power of Sonyas Rupture sh which could easily overwhelm the aforementioned three swordy spirits.


    Therefore, although they had obtained many spirits, those spirits were not indispensable. Rather than deciphering those new spirits, it was better to utilize their existing, tried-and-true spirits  old is gold, new is not necessarily better.


    But their situation could be considered as lucky, what average silver-rank sorcerer could harvest 2-3 spirits every night? Just surviving was a blessing from the virtual world, any gains could be celebrated like a festival.


    Its not like they didnt update their equipment at all. For example, Ashe was the first toplete the three fundamental swordy spirits of sh Sword, Thrust Sword, and Cleave Sword. In principle, a swordsman would need to personally summon these three spirits in order to establish a solid foundation in the swordy discipline. Sonya, being an actual swordsman, did not ask for these three spirits, while Ashe, as a stowaway outsider without any skills, naturally did not care about foundations.


    After selling off her spoils of war, Sonya quickly gathered the necessary spirits for the two miracles Sheaths Gathered Light and Sharpen for Ten Years, further increasing herbat strength.


    Although not exactly invincible in the world, this male-female duo could be said to have the capital to act unrestrainedly in the sea of knowledge.


    But from another perspective, this also meant the sea of knowledge was starting to have diminishing returns for them. They had gained too much in the virtual world and needed to spend ample time slowly absorbing it.


    Unless they could reach a higher level of the virtual world.


    If I can coalesce golden arcane energy, I can fully activate my sword body barrier, increasing my defense by at least five timespared to now. Ashe exined the necessity of golden energy for him. Unlike the swordswoman, he had the two-wing spirit Earth Sword granted by Valcas, so advancing would instantly boost hisbat strength.


    Sonya waved her hand dismissively, Thats assuming we can even find the golden fish. Youre talking as if youve already won the lottery before the numbers are drawn.


    What would you do if you won the jackpot?


    First Id buy a mansion in Cailleach, then pretend to be gravely ill and urge my mother to borrow money from other rtives and vigers.


    Why?


    Those arrogant vigers who always bullied my widowed mother definitely wouldnt want to lend money. Then Id rent a fleet of luxury cars to go pick up my mother, let the vigers jealous. If anyone dares ask my mother for money, Ill remind her of it and chop off the hands of those arrogant vigers.


    Ew, you really are


    Got a problem with that?


    I think you could find a well-connected person and have her borrow money for your mother. When you return home gloriously, you can generously reward that person. Contrast makes the harm more apparent  this way you only need to spend a little, but can make others regret it so much theyll bash their heads on walls.


    Wow, you observer are really nasty and oozing.


    Ill be shy from your praises.


    During their banter, Ashe noticed a light red area appear on the virtual world map, marked as Extremely Challenging  this was the most dangerous area they could ess, and also the area Ashe was looking for.


    Ashes smile faded as he solemnly said, Although not necessarily linear, the stronger the sorcerers projection, the more likely theyll know information about the golden fish. So from here on, itll be tough battles.


    Anyway you wont being to the virtual world after tonight.


    Sonyas palms emanated a steel-white glow as she lightly stroked the wooden sword in her hand, Lets go crazy just once, worst case Ill give you first blood.


    Miracle  Sharpen for a Day, activate.


    Strictly speaking, although Sharpen for Ten Years was a two-wing miracle, there was arge adjustable range. Because in time-based spirits, year was the rarest, followed by month, with day being the mostmon. Ten days was a two-wing spirit, hundred days a three-wing spirit, thousand days a four-wing spirit, and so on for year and month.


    Therefore, Sharpen for Ten Years could be changed to Sharpen for One Day, Ten Days, Hundred Days, Thousand Days, One Month, Ten Months, and so on. As the spirit rank was adjusted, the might of this miracle would correspondingly increase or decrease. It was called Sharpen for Ten Years simply because ten years had the best cost-performance ratio.


    Yes, activating this miracle directly consumed the time spirits, which had to be rebought. So Sonya only dared to use the cheapest day spirit. It was said the more advanced andplex powerful miracles often required massive spirit consumption. Thus when legendary sorcerers made a move, it was like pouring out gold and silver, which could still crush many people even if converted to gold and silver coins.


    But in proportion to the cost, these miracles had excellent effects. Sonyas wooden sword emanated a bright grey glow  this was the sharpness generated from sharpening. All her attacks in the following duration would gain the sharpness buff, increasing their prative power. Even against masochist mages she could break through their defense.


    Ashe took out a longsword from his tongue  the Honey Stomach Sword he had drawn previously. He then summoned a clone and had it circle around the sea to reach the inheritance islet from the other side.


    Preparationsplete, the two broke through the wisps of white fog and arrived at the inheritance islet. At the same time, the clone crawled onto the islet from the other side, drawing the sorcerer projections attention.


    Now!


    Ashe pointed his sword tip, and a cute single-wing spirit appeared on the de. A sh of sword light shot towards the sorcerer projections neck like lightning!


    Spirit  Sword Heart!


    Sonya kicked off from the small boat, leaping up with sword drawn. The corners of her mouth hinted at an expectant smile, like an elegant dancer bounding onto the ind and spinning. The swirling sinister light surged forth like a meat grinder towards the sorcerer projection!


    Miracle  Rupture Sinister Wave sh!


    The clone attracted attention and sacrificed itself, Ashe attacked from afar, Sonya erupted in closebat  this was their foolproof encirclement tactic!


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 Chapter 118: The Belly of the Golden Fish

    Chapter 118: The Belly of the Golden Fish


    Sorcerer Handbook: Culinary Arts Archive: Mastery of Common Recipes


    Sorcerer Handbook: Cat Care Diary: Mastery of Cat Care, Mastery of Scooping Litter


    Sorcerer Handbook: Fishing Secrets: Mastery of Identifying Unknown Objects


    Wow, this fishing sorcerer has practiced identifying unknown objects to mastery just from fishing up all kinds of weird things from the river But judging by his frequent empty catches, he clearly doesnt have the Fishing Mastery skill.


    But hes very skilled at fishing for people. Sonya unceremoniously plopped down on the sandy ground, her face flushed as she panted lightly, the corners of her lips curving up slightly, seeming toin and get excited at the same time, He almost killed me just now.


    The fishing sorcerer used a very strange fishing rod weapon,bining the abilities of a long spear and b, adept at both long range and closebat. He was a very rare one-wing sorcerer skilled at groupbat, able to hold his own against Ashe and Sonya at the same time.


    He even pulled a trick, feinting an attack at Ashe to draw out his defensive reaction, then immediately turning to assassinate Sonyas unprotected back. At that time Sonya was still dealing with his frontal fishing rod assault, and though she noticed the backstab, she had no way to evade it.


    If Ashe had not quickly cast Sword Aegis over Sonya, they might have already been forced out of the virtual world. Even after avoiding that lethal trap, they still spent tremendous effort before finally killing the fishing sorcerer. Ashe sustained countless minor injuries, while Sonya had half her hand pierced through. Fortunately they could quickly recover soul energy in the virtual world, otherwise the fishing sorcerer would have easily killed them in reality.


    Other than the inability to actually fish, the fishing sorcerer was wless as a one-wing sorcerer.


    Ashe watched as the sorcerer handbook dissipated into wisps of smoke and the legacy isle rumbled as it sank. Looking at Sonya still resting on the ground, he noticed her body was nearly half transparent, indicating massive soul energy expenditure. He reached out a hand and said, Lets call it a night.


    Sonya nced at him and took his hand to stand up. I should still have one more fight in me.


    But Im tired and dont want to keep battling.


    Asheughed and shook his head, sitting down on the boat and stretchingzily. No need to force yourself. Dying in the virtual world would actually impede our prison break tomorrow. Lets sail a while longer before logging off.


    After all, trying to find the golden fish in one night was an extremely unrealistic wish to begin with. Not achieving it is normal  if we did seed, Id have to suspect the Four Pirs were really blessing me. Asheined jokingly, Its all because you mentioned the golden fish, now my hopes are too high and the disappointment is greater. Swordswoman, you have to take full responsibility this time!


    Hearing the observer make such an absurd usation, Sonya wasnt angry at all.


    She sat on the small boat, legs crossed, the plump and straight thighs squeezed together in an alluring line. Her elbow on her knee and petite hand supporting her chin, she gazed steadily at the observer.


    Tonight she wore a ck vest and deep red ultra mini skirt, little boots with thigh highs, even some ck garter-like decorations on her legs, fashionable and sexy yet retaining a youthful ir, adding a touch of dazzling color to the grey virtual world.


    Seeing the swordswoman silent, Ashe grew a little afraid. Sorry, I got too arrogant. Oh, let me tell you a joke, once there was a little white bunny who met a bear that was having diarrhea


    Shush, Im thinking.


    Thinking about what?


    Thinking about intel on the golden fish. Sonya said calmly, Organizing the information we have to see if we can uncover the truth about the golden fish.


    Ashe waved his hand dismissively, Dont waste your efforts. So many sorcerers have searched for so many years and found nothing. Are they less talented than us, trained less hard than us? But even they have to follow proper progression, first raise their factions domains before essing higher virtual nes. For us to expect a miracle like the golden fish is simply unrealistic


    But seeking miracles is exactly why sorcerers exist!


    Sonya tilted her head and smiled, Anyway weve got nothing better to do, so just keep mepany and think with me about how to find the golden fish.


    Ashe pursed his lips, then tapped the Virtual World Map to set the boat sailing towards a safe zone. Leaning against the hull with folded arms, he said, Seeing how beautifully youre dressed tonight, Ill follow you.


    Thanks! Sonya responded crisply, Lets organize the new intel first.


    Ashe nodded, Of the three sorcerer projections we defeated earlier, two of their handbooks mentioned the golden fish: the culinary sorcerer wanted to take a bite of the golden fishs meat, while the fishing sorcerer believed the golden fish could be caught.


    Its hard to say whether the former was overly bold, daring to covet such a great existence in the virtual world, or if thetter was deranged, still obsessed with fishing even after entering the virtual ne.


    Although the culinary sorcerer pursued it for years until death without tasting so much as the golden fishs crap, let alone its meat, he did gain something  he once reached the Fortune Telling Isle.


    This shows how Ashes ability to barrier-free read sorcerer handbooks will be more and more important in the future.


    Earlier they could only ess some low-level sorcerer handbooks, naturally yielding little benefit since insignificant sorcerers led meaningless lives.


    But when they reach the core regions of the Sea of Knowledge and encounter powerful sorcerer projections, the handbook insights will increase exponentially.


    Because its not just that they have serendipities in the virtual world, other sorcerers also have fortunate moments blessed by the virtual ne.


    Whats more miraculous is that the virtual worlds serendipities are not necessarily non-reproducible.


    Reading the handbooks is like obtaining other sorcerers exploration notes and even intelligence gains in the virtual world. The Whirlpool Venom is the best example  if not for Ashe happening to read that handbook and learning the rapid leveling up tricks, they might still be Silver Half-Wings now.


    Like us, he also asked the virtual world about the golden fish: Can I eat the golden fishs meat in the Sea of Knowledge? The answer was No.


    We can conclude: the golden fish does not exist in the Sea of Knowledge in physical form.


    The fishing sorcerer believed the golden fish was hiding in the sea, so he persisted in fishing the virtual world for over a decade. But other than the asional knowledge creatures like Mud Dragons and sh Dragons, he found no traces of the golden fish. He also dove into the Sea of Knowledge, but it was pitch ck down there and he quickly died.


    Here we can also conclude: we cant dive into the Sea of Knowledge to search for the golden fish.


    Sonya pondered, And our previous intel was that the golden fish can be seen without triggering any rituals, that it floats on the seas surface.


    Ashe counted on his fingers, The golden fish is on the seas surface, not a physical entity, and can be directly seen Ah, I know what the golden fish is!


    Huh?


    See how this white fog fits all the characteristics  on the seas surface, inedible, directly visible. The only problem is it doesnt look capable of carrying a whole continent. Ashe gazed at the dense white fog enshrouding their boat.


    Be serious!


    I am serious! Ashe leanedzily against the boat, looking at Sonya and suddenly smiling, Dont worry, even without the golden arcane energy I wont just die during the prison breakprobably.


    Sonyas blinkered, Who cares about you, I just want to see thendscapes of the Isle of Time as soon as possible. Stuck in the Sea of Knowledge, my arcane energy cant grow at all.


    Alright alright, I think too much. Ashe was in a good mood. Oh right, what did you do during your one hour break tonight?


    Went drinking with Senior Leone.


    That Leone senior who beat you badlyst time?


    What beat me badly, I clearly won! And that whole affair was your fault to begin with, you insisted I fight her! You dare to say-


    Oh, youre old enough to drink now?


    Well, youre really Of course Im legal age. She told me lots of adventure stories about exploring the Abyss, very interesting.


    Do tell.


    Like theres a very rare shadow ghoul thats insubstantial, uses soul attacks, extremely tricky to deal with, but its weakness is obvious  shine any light to reveal its shadow then attack the shadow, and its main body will also be heavily injured.


    Theres also the super creepy Eyeball Hunter whose body is extremely sturdy. When someone looks at it, it will stand utterly still, but the moment you look away, it will swiftly approach and pierce the sorcerers eyes. Leones team saw one once, fortunately they were far enough to flee in time.


    The most dangerous monster in the shallow Abyss is the Devourer, its colossal in size and disguises its stomach as an ordinary cave. The moment a sorcerer steps in, it seals the cave which is its stomach and releases potent gastric acid. Idle Silver-rank sorcerers would have great difficulty piercing its stomach sac, only able to watch helplessly as they dissolve away


    Sonya seemed excited and bright-eyed recounting these scary Abyss stories. Ashe was originally listening benevolently to the little cutie narrating her school adventures, but his expression gradually changed, even bolting upright in shock.


    You just said theres a monster that disguises its stomach as a cave?


    Yeah, the Devourer, why, have you seen it before?


    I think I may have seen something simr.


    Sonya blinked. Simr?


    Ashe looked up at the sky obscured by white fog.


    What if were inside the belly of the golden fish?


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 Chapter 119: Silver Wings!

    Chapter 119: Silver Wings!


    Why cant sorcerers find any trace of the theoretically massive golden fish?


    Why does the virtual world say the golden fish is in the ocean and can be seen without any rituals?


    Theres only one answer.


    Ashe murmured, Were inside the golden fish, and the time spirits are above the white fog.


    Sonya instinctively wanted to nitpick, but when she matched the information she knew with this conclusion, she found that everything fit perfectly, exining the truth about the golden fish!


    And, she suddenly recalled, The only Sorcerer Handbook Ive read mentioned that after explorers found the golden fish, they climbed over 800yers but still couldnt get to the top of the golden fish, right?


    Carefully thinking about it, if the golden fish really had over 800yers, even with the white fog obscuring it, sorcerers wouldnt bepletely unable to find any trace And in the sea of knowledge, the only ce that explorers can climb hundreds ofyers without reaching is


    The sky.


    The two stared nkly at the white foggy sky.


    After a good while, Sonya asked in a daze, But how do we climb up there?


    Yeah, how could they climb up into the sky?


    Even knowing the time spirits were right above them and climbing up would make them two-wing casters, butwhere was the path?


    There is nodder hanging down from the sky, there is no tower on the ground, and there is no naturalndscape more than one meter above sea of knowledge.


    They werent adept in the earth element like the explorers, unable to build tall structures from t ground. Their only way to gain height was having the doppelganger stand on top, the swordswoman on the doppelgangers shoulders, and Ashe on the swordswomans shoulders.


    Could Ashe summon thousands of doppelgangers to stack himself up? No, because he only had the doppelganger spirit, not the multiple doppelgangers miracle, so he could only summon one doppelganger.


    If he summoned a second doppelganger, the first would disappear. To summon two doppelgangers, the best method was finding a second doppelganger spirit and activating them together,bining into the double doppelganger miracle.


    So spirit use was a skill  very versatile in some ways yet conservative in others.


    Are there any flight miracles? Ashe asked.


    Very few at the one-wing level, Sonya shook her head. One-wing movement miracles are basically swift ground movement. Even if they can briefly go airborne, its just to cross obstacles, not actual flight.


    This doesnt improve at two-wings either. At most, the movement is faster, costs less, and changes direction more flexibly. True flight miracles aremon only at the three-wing saint level.


    Why?


    Because reaching three-wing saint requires fully unfolding the silver and golden wings. Sonya pped her arms like wings. You dont think a casters virtual wings are just for show, do you?


    Huh? Arent virtual wings for intimidating opponents? Everyonepares virtual wings before fighting  more and moreplete wings means stronger.


    Thats just the sociological use. Actual virtual wings represent a casters knowledge umtion and each grants tremendous aid


    Tremendous aid? Ashe was startled and unfolded his silver wings. Other than not needing a light to pee at night, what other help do they give?


    The silver blessing. Sonya shrugged. Didnt I tell you before? Fully unfolding the silver wings only proves our silver arcane energy has peaked. When we sessfully advance to two-wings and leave the sea of knowledge, reaching the time spirits, the silver wings will shine  thats when theyre in perfect form.


    Shining silver wings bestow eternal blessings based on the casters specialty. Even a newly advanced two-wing casters silver blessing grants over 20% more power, sometimes up to 100% with luck.


    Ashe realized, No wonder you insisted on finding the golden fish tonight despite the exhaustion


    A 20-100% power increase would be decisive for his prison break n tomorrow. It was worth going all out for the silver blessing.


    Sonya felt drunk again, her cheeks slightly flushed. I told you, I just want to see the scenery of the time spirits as soon as possible And you did promise to help me achieve my dream  finding the golden fish is part of that dream, so of course Id drag you along.


    Thats true. So when will you sing for me, I could ording to your skill to judge if Ive epted a dirty job against my conscience?


    You just cant let that go huh. Then Ill start  Im light as a feather, floating without any weight''


    Im sorry, that was arrogant of me. Lets talk flight miracles, flight miracles.


    At this time, Ashe also resolved a doubt in his mind. He had felt his silver wings looked a bit inferior to Valcas back then  not as bright or majestic. He thought it was a lighting issue before, not expecting it to be a developmental problem.


    Without opening the new worlds gate even once, his silver wings were not mature virtual wings.


    Sonya paused. After obtaining perfect dual wings, casters not only get the silver and golden blessings, but because the dual wings bring qualitative change, they can directly soar through reality with their wings. For this reason, most flight miracles require three-wing saint minimum, at least two-wingpletion.


    In short, flight miracles were like luxury cars and yachts, only essible by rich guys who have three-wing, and who had no intention of developing budget versions for the poor.


    She looked up at the grey sky. Even if we find a flight miracle one-wings can use, the explorers built an 800yer tower and still couldnt reach the top. Even if we exhaust our arcane energy, we probably cant fly that high.


    The easiest flight for casters is definitely virtual wing flight, no doubt about it. Knowledge is our lightest wings.


    Ashe stood and pped his silver wings, only rocking the boat slightly without any lift.


    Sonya said helplessly, Even without wind element training, you should know you need actual wings to fly right?


    She also looked puzzled. Flight miracles cant go that high, earth magic cant build a stairway to heaven How did those legendary casters who found the golden fish and crossed over do it? Did we think wrong, or is there adder in the sea of knowledge, or some way to prematurely get wings?


    If we just need a pair of wings Ashe said softly. We have them too.


    We?


    Sonya was startled. Ashe pointed at his silver wings, then at hers.


    Thats too crazy


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 Chapter 120: Some Things Cannot Be Locked Away

    Chapter 120: Some Things Cannot Be Locked Away


    I cant believe this is actually happening!


    Seeing her feet leave the small boat and soar into the white mist, Sonya was so excited that goosebumps covered her entire body. It was like the first time she saw Dahlias show on the light screen  she was blown away by the miraculous sight.


    Dont get too excited. We need to work together, or else any mistake could make us fall, Ashe warned.


    At this point, Sonya was actually very confident: Didnt you say theres a bond between us? If a bond really exists, cooperation like this should be nothing.


    She nced at Ashe, gripping his right hand tightly with her left, as if doing so would connect their hearts. Their silver wings pped at the same frequency, like two birds flying side by side, supporting each other.


    We finally found so many clues about the golden fish, finally deduced the truth about them, finally discovered the right way to fly


    Ashe coughed solemnly: I was the one who deduced the truth and discovered the flying method. Of course, Swordswoman, you also made huge contributions


    Yes, yes, youre so amazing, Observer, Sonya smiled radiantly. I dere that your standing in my heart tonight can bepared to Dahlia!


    Just for tonight? Also, who is Dahlia?


    Shes my most admired idol! You should be content with just one night! Compared to your previous standing in my heart, at least this time Imparing you to another person.


    Im very curious what exactly I waspared to before


    The twoughed foolishly for a while before Ashe stopped smiling and looked up at the gray sky seriously. Are you ready?


    Yes, Sonya nodded heavily.


    Observer, lets fly, Ashe said.


    With a p of their silver wings, they shot into the white mist, circling upwards. The Sea of Knowledge grew farther and farther, and Ashes Virtual World Map also began to turn chaotic. The higheryers of mist grew thinner and thinner, until they could even faintly see the end  a stretch of golden light!


    How did the sorcerers in the past findpanions to fly with? Sonya suddenly asked. Could other sorcerers form teams to explore the virtual world too?


    Maybe, but I guess theres an even more unbelievable possibility, Ashe replied.


    What possibility?


    That they encountered their friends from the real world here in the virtual realm.


    Stumbling upon other sorcerers who just happen to be friends they know, and just happening to both manifest silver wings, and just happening to know the truth about the golden fish? Thats so many lucky coincidences


    Its precisely because it requires so many coincidences that it can be called a miracle.


    As they drew closer and closer to the sky, the mist grew thinner and thinner, and they flew higher and higher. At this point, they felt their bodies grow heavier and heavier, as if the Sea of Knowledges gravity over them was increasing. Their hands, feet, and even bodies felt like they were filled with lead.


    The Sea of Knowledge was stopping the stowaways.


    If they really relied on a miracle to fly, they would most likely stop here. Like explorers, their soaring dreams would be dragged down by the heavy gravity ande crashing into the deep sea, shattering like crystals.


    But the pping of their virtual wings seemed to require no effort at all, easily cutting through the mist and resisting gravity. Even as the Sea of Knowledge bound their souls, the virtual wings still allowed them to traverse the earth and sky.


    As the golden light drew nearer and nearer, as they were about to sneak from the Sea of Knowledge into the Time Spirits, Sonya grew more and more afraid, and her breathing grew heavier and heavier.


    She suddenly could not suppress the question that had lingered deep in her heart: Why me?


    She didnt even understand her own feelings. She couldve asked this questionter, tomorrow, in the future, but she insisted on an answer right now, even if it wasnt the one she hoped for.


    Even though this might jeopardize her interests, at that moment, Sonya felt that some things were more important than her own promotion to two wings.


    Ashe nced at her in surprise. Although the question was out of the blue, he understood what the Swordswoman was asking.


    Originally nning to joke around, the words became the truth as they left his mouth: Just a coincidence.


    Sonya concealed her emotional fluctuations very well, revealing a professional smile: I knew it. Looks like Im pretty lucky


    Im the lucky one, Ashe said softly. Its precisely because of you, this coincidence, that the series of miracles afterward could happen.


    Some things cannot be locked away. Even if you tie up their hands and feet, they will still grow wings and take flight,'' he suddenly recalled this phrase. Swordswoman, I can fly not because of the Silver Wings, but because of you.


    When my hands and feet were bound, when I was trapped in prison, you became my window to explore the virtual world, you helped me obtain the power of a sorcerer.


    Ashe looked at Sonya and smiled. Swordswoman, you are my wings.


    Sonya stared nkly at him. In the increasingly blinding golden light, the ck fog concealing the Observers appearance dissipated swiftly, revealing a finely chiseled smiling face and a pair of bright eyes.


    After knowing him for many days, Sonya finally saw his face.


    In that moment, the lingering dissatisfaction, resentment, worry, and more in her heart all dispersed like smoke. She had never felt this way before in her life  happier than the first time wearing new clothes, more excited than the first time seeing Cailleach, sweeter than the first taste of ice creamIt was as ifthe emptiness in her heart that shed never noticed was being silently filled.


    Finally, she grasped Ashes hand tightly and softly hmmd, saying softly:


    Youre also my golden fish.


    Ashe chuckled. What a weird metaphor, it makes me feel like Im your stepping stone.


    Sonya argued weakly, Thats not what I meant


    Just kidding, I understand what you mean. So nextlets go witness the real golden fish!


    When they flew past the outermostyer of mist, what appeared before their eyes was a golden ocean upying the entire sky, as clear as a mirror and as vast as the sea.


    With the pping of their silver wings, the golden sea seemed stimted, stirring up surges of waves. The churning golden waters reflected the individual feathers of the silver wings, suddenly appearing asyered, distinct scales!


    In the blink of an eye, the endless golden sea transformed into the belly of a golden fish!


    So this isthe truth of the golden fish! Sonya murmured softly.


    Ashe was also deeply shocked by this spectacle, but he didnt linger. With a satisfied smile, he led the Swordswoman flying into the golden ocean!


    The next second, the world inverted!


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 Chapter 121: Silver Blessing

    Chapter 121: Silver Blessing


    Hmm?


    Leone looked back at the world that was gradually turning into ck and white behind her.


    Did something fall down? Or is this a special virtual world phenomenon?


    On her first day in the Time Spirits, the orange dancer was still in the stage of unfamiliarity and exploration. Everything was both unfamiliar and special to her. But even so, she knew she had to run away quickly.


    Otherwise, time would catch up to her.


    I cant believe I didnt die from the fall


    Ashe, who was lying on the grass, sat up and shook his head, still feeling imbnced.


    When they had rushed into the Golden Sea, they both simultaneously lost their sense of direction. The whole world seemed to turn upside down like a dice cup, making it impossible for them to maintain flight. They could only follow the pull of the virtual worlds gravity and let themselves plummet straight down.


    Ashe thought he would die for sure this time after all his boasting, only to end up falling back into the Sea of Knowledge. But feeling the grass beneath his butt, he knew his dignity was at least preserved.


    Look, Observer.


    Ashe raised his head. What he saw was a spectacle that could almost rival the golden fish scales.


    Golden rain was falling from the sky.


    They were in a lush forest, surrounded by ancient towering trees that were probably centuries old. Despite the dense foliage blocking out the sun, Ashe could still see far away a white pir spanning from the earth to the sky. Around the pir, countless drops of golden rain spewed forth, falling upward from the ground toward the heavens.


    He couldnt help murmuring, Is this the world of the powerful?


    Thats the timegold rain, simr to the knowledge mist in the Sea of Knowledge, Sonya exined. To condense our second virtual wing with golden arcane energy, we need to follow the Oxs footsteps and undergo the baptism of the golden rain.


    Ox foot?


    That white pir is the ox foot, you look carefully, is it moving?


    Peering intently, Ashe noticed the pir was indeed shifting, though the motion was very subtle. However, considering he was observing the movement from several kilometers away, the true speed of the pir was likely a dozen meters per second.


    Why is it called ox-foot?


    Because it is the ox foot. Beyond what you can see, there are threeother ox feet. Together, these four feet belong to the virtual world colossal beast, the Ox, that treads upon the Time Spirits, Sonya exined.


    The Ox has many names  the Fate Weaver, the Celestial Ox, the Time Walkerbut most refer to it simply as the White Ox.


    The footprints plowed by the White Ox be a Golden River. The waters of the Golden River have the power to manipte time. The nts and animals on the banks nourished by it grow at unimaginable speeds, and they in turn produce the timegold rain that falls upward into the sky.


    She stroked the setaria viridis beside her. If we hade earlier, we would have been bathing in the golden rain now.


    The Golden River, the inverted golden rain, the White Ox Ashe gazed at the sky covered in rainfall. So this is the Time Spirits?


    Drip.


    Suddenly, they both heard the crisp sound of water dripping in unison. Immediately after, the Silver Wings manifested uncontrobly and shone with a dazzling silvery radiance!


    Silver Blessing! Sonya eximed joyfully. She calmed herself to feel the newly obtained power, while Ashe chose to open his Operator system.


    Death Maniac Swordswoman


    Race: Human, Female, 18 years old


    Trust Level: 3 (50% EXP sharing)


    Trust Resonance  Greed: Chance to obtain better spoils when acting together.


    ss: Soul-Shattering Silver Sorcerer


    ss Trait: Recover 0.5% max arcane energy with each effective attack


    Silver Blessing  Revelry/Brutality: Increase critical rate and critical damage with each enemy killed (including but not limited to sorcerer projections, knowledge creatures, monsters, sorcerers, constructed creatures, etc). Different traits may be triggered based on Operators cultivation path.


    Additional Blessing Trait  Revelry: The swordswoman needs only victory to feel joy. She maintains respect andpassion for her enemies. This path triggers the Revelry effect, granting critical damage increase. The better her mood, the greater the increase, up to 250% critical damage.


    Additional Curse Trait  Brutality: The swordswomans thirst can only be quenched by death and agony. She will expend every effort to bring despair upon the disrespectful. This path triggers the Brutality effect, granting critical rate increase. The worse her mood, the greater the increase, up to 100% critical rate.


    Curse of Knowledge: Whirlpool Venom, Eviction Venom, Golden Fish Venom


    It seems like a growth-type blessing


    After sensing for a while, Sonya pondered, Since blessings are a sorcerers most private secrets, and the college doesnt have detailed information on them, developing blessings requires the sorcerer to explore on their own Do you know what my specific blessing is?


    Ashe nced at her: Your blessing is called Revelry. The more enemies defeated, the higher your critical hit rate and critical hit damage.


    Although it sounded strange, critical hit rate and critical hit damage were not umon among sorcerers. Simply put, it was when the spirit suddenly felt motivated to over-perform during spellcasting, that was a critical hit.


    Critical hit rate represented the frequency of the spirits overtime work, and critical hit damage represented the efficiency of the spirits overtime. In other words, this blessing could be summarized as the more rivalpanies the Swordswoman Corporation acquires, the more efficient the exploitation of internal spirit employees bes.


    Sonya was a little dissatisfied. Revelry, what a weird name. Im clearly a virtuous swordswoman, why would I be associated with the word madness?


    The virtual worlds positioning of you may be slightly inurate, Ashe said disingenuously. Youre so quiet and cute, gentle and kind, friendly and easy-going. Even I feel this time the silver blessing given to you by the virtual world really doesnt match your status.


    Sonya was flustered by his words. Im not that greatbut this growth-type blessing isnt bad. It should be very helpful for future virtual world explorations after I develop it well.


    Ashe secretly breathed a sigh of relief. The Swordswomans silver blessing had two cultivation paths, Revelry and Brutality. Ashe undoubtedly hoped the Swordswoman would take the Revelry path, as the Brutality path was clearly very negative energy.


    This wasnt an actual mobile game where battles could be auto-piloted and auto-fought. In the future, Ashe would still have to personally apany the Swordswoman on nightly explorations (of the virtual world). If the Swordswoman was always bursting with negative energy and causing bloody carnage whenever they fought, Ashe wouldnt be able to maintain a good mood either.


    But this paths cultivation was clearly not something that could be determined with a simple click in-game. It required continuous daily guidance, almost like raising a daughter. As a first-time dad, Ashe didnt have much experience. For now, he had to instill kind virtues in the Swordswoman, make her believe she was an angelic cutie, to prevent her from turning dark.


    In addition, the Swordswomans Trust Level rose to 3, increasing the EXP sharing ratio to 50%.


    Seeing this, Ashe was suddenly struck by a question: Did the Trust Level refer to the Swordswomans affection for him, his affection for the Swordswoman, or their mutual affection?


    Come to think of it, why did he choose to guide the Swordswoman down the Revelry path almost without any hesitation?


    The Brutality path also offered considerable benefits, and the condition of maintaining a bad mood was much simpler than maintaining a good mood. Yet he didnt even consider that option for a second


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 Chapter 122: I’m Waiting for You in the Virtual World

    Chapter 122: I��m Waiting for You in the Virtual World


    Sonya curiously asked, What is your Silver Blessing?


    Ashe was slightly taken aback as he looked at his newly obtained blessing.


    Silver Blessing  Observers Guise: Your appearance has a mystifying allure. Unless you act abnormally, others will subconsciously overlook your existence. In the virtual world, this blessing is enhanced such that unless one has an intimate bond with you, they cannot discern your visage.


    Can you see my face clearly?


    Sonya was startled, I can right now.


    Ashe blinked and briefly exined, My blessing makes others unconsciously ignore me when they see methough Im not an infiltrator and dont n on robbing the rich to aid the poor in the future, so why did I get such a blessing? This virtual world is clearly targeting me.


    Sonya giggled and said, Or perhaps the virtual world has seen through your true nature


    Dontugh. You should also feel that weve obtained another arcane poison.


    When they saw the golden fish scales appear, a hidden knowledge flowed into their minds.


    Golden Fish Arcane Poison


    Number of People Infected: 14


    Poison Strengthening Level: 14%


    Current Effect: You can convert silver arcane energy into golden arcane energy at a ratio of 64:36. (Greatly enhanced effects upon reducing strengthening level to 10%, conversion bes negative effect at 51%.)


    It was understandable that the Golden Fish arcane poison did not have a wide transmission range, since even Ashe and the others had to infer the truth and needed to personally see the golden fish to get infected.


    On the other hand, Ashe was quite surprised that the number of infected was 14 people  meaning aside from them, another 6 pairs had smuggled over to the Time Spirits through the same method from the Sea of Knowledge  but Ashes team had cheats while the others truly met by fate!


    What a powerful poison, Sonya eximed. Ive never even heard of a miracle that can convert arcane energies, not to mention at a 2:1 ratio, even 10:1 would be unthinkable!


    Generally speaking, silver arcane energy was just that, and golden arcane energy was just that. Lower level arcane energies would not get enhanced just because the sorcerer climbed to higher Virtual World levels, since the essence of arcane energy was the coalescence of knowledge. Just like the addition and subtraction learned in first grade would not automatically turn into multiplication and division in second grade.


    Although lower level arcane energy could invoke higher level spirits, and higher level arcane energy could also invoke lower level spirits, the former was extremely inefficient while thetter was overly wasteful. Hence, sorcerers would typically invoke spirits using the corresponding level of arcane energy in order to maximize resource utilization.


    However, as sorcerers obtained more and more high level spirits, there would naturally be no need to use outdated lower level spirits, and the lower level arcane energies would also be disdained.


    Right now, Ashe and Sonya did not have an urgent need for this poison, since they did not have many Two-Wing spirits, and silver arcane energy was fully sufficient. But when they updated their spirits to the Two-Wing versions, they would feel the preciousness of this poison  even when facing Two-Wing sorcerers at the same Virtual World progress, relying on the golden arcane energy converted from silver, their mana bars would naturally be longer by a segment!


    Sneaking over to the Time Spirits after drinking with senior sister, obtaining the Silver Blessing, getting infected by the Golden Fish poison, and also Sonyas eyes swiftly nced over Ashes visage, Truly a fortunate night.


    The nights not over yet. While theres still time, lets go explore the Time Spirits a bit, perhaps we can pick up some wild Two-Wing spirits


    Were out of time, Sonya said. Were going to die.


    Ashe was startled and opened up the Virtual World Map, discovering that all 25 map grids had the same message:


    Await your death, no hope left.


    You didnt notice my change? Sonya twirled a lock of hair by her ear, My hair has turned ck.


    Not only Sonyas hair, as Ashe looked around, he discovered the formerly somewhat green forest hadpletely turned grey. Sonya had even lost all color, like a character from a ck and white film.


    He looked down at his own hands, ghastly pale without a hint of flesh tone.


    The sorcerers pursuit of the White Ox is not solely to bathe in the golden rain, but because outside the River of Gold, time does not exist. Sonya exined, The River of Gold moves along with the White Ox, hence once the Ox is lost, the sorcerer will fall into the still realm where time is absent. The concrete manifestation is losing all color, with only ck and white remaining in the surroundings.


    If we had just now


    I woke up to see the surrounding grass and trees already tinged grey, indicating the River of Gold nearby had already dried up. At that time, we were as good as dead. Sonya shrugged. Even if we gave chase, itd be futile. One cannot outrun time.


    Ashe asked, What about exiting the virtual world now?


    Sonya smiled. There is an immense time difference between the still realm and outside world. Despite our long chat, only a few seconds may have passed outside. Itd likely take us several hours in the still realm to exit the virtual world, which takes 20 seconds outside.


    Being frozen in time after entering the still realm is the second mostmon cause of a sorcerers death. The first is drowning in the Sea of Knowledge.


    How much longer until we freeze up?


    The textbooks state approximately 10 minutes if one does not escape and waits in ce. It likely wont be much longer.


    Ashe looked up at the sky. The golden rain was nowhere to be seen, the entire world turned into lifeless ck and white.


    Will we return here the next time we enter the virtual world?


    We will. The virtual world offers no turning back, nor do sorcerers permit backtracking. Even if I open my single-wing spirits Gate of Truth, wed only arrive at the Time Spirits.


    That works then.


    Ashe stretchedzily andid down on the grass, plucking a de to nibble on. Unexpectedly, it tasted a little sweet.


    A thought suddenly urred to him. Doesnt dying in the virtual world damage ones soul?


    Sonya nodded. Yes, but since we werent defeated by a sorcerers projection or bitten to death by a knowledge being, itd just be minor damage without losing any spirits. Before the soul fully recovers, aside from being unable to enter the virtual world, we may feel listless and unable to concentrate, feeling drowsy with reduced learning efficiency.


    Sounds like still being half-asleepthough being unable to enter the virtual world is a big problem


    In any case, you wont be entering the virtual world these next few days. Without you, Ive no interest in solo exploring the Time Spirits either. I can take this time to properly cultivate and settle the newly learned knowledge, mastering the newly obtained miracles. After hard work for half a month, its time to rest.


    Rest huh speaking of which, I havent slept in a long time either, feeling a bit drowsy just talking about it


    Ashe yawned and rubbed his eyes. Suddenly, he felt the back of his head gently lifted and ced atop a soft and sticfort.


    A gentle, melodic voice slowly rang out, like a lovers whisper in his ear, yet also reminiscent of the crisp clinking of ice in a summer drink  pure yet bewitching, demure yet coquettish, lulling him into drowsiness as his body rxed, leaving him dizzy as if in a dream.


    When the heavenly voice paused, Ashe still lingered between sleep and wakefulness.


    This was the luby my mother sang when I was little. Youre the first person Ive sung for.


    Ashe opened his eyes to see the swordswoman gazing down, the joy in her pupils seeming to paint color into this monochrome world.


    Ill be waiting for you in the virtual world.


    The next second, they were frozen in time like a painting.


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 Chapter 123: Cannibal Fernand Snow

    Chapter 123: Cannibal Fernand Snow


    So Hollis is rallying the Everlife Elixir clubs?


    A transport ship was sailing through the waves on Crush Lake, with finger sharks asionally trying to take a bite of the huge vessel, making crisp ding ding ding sounds.


    In the only VIP cabin, the kindly-looking cannibal sat in an armchair, puffing on a pipe and blowing out rings of light green smoke.


    On the light screen in front of the cannibal, a tall, handsome, bald goblin with pointy ears was going through some documents. He wore a tailored ck suit, sses, and had a worried look on his face.


    Yes, Mayor. Im afraid they want to initiate impeachment proceedings to end your term early. Youre the main person responsible for the 424 Incident, and if Hollis unites the centrists to make a move, demanding a mayoral vote, it will be hard for us to gain support. Those councilors supporting us will also face pressure from voters in their districts.


    I didnt expect that after struggling with Andrei for so long, Id end up having the peach plucked by that bastard Hollis


    Crack!


    The cannibal viciously bit down, crushing the white ivory pipe into pieces! It chewed a few times then swallowed the pipe whole!


    How could I expect good politics being together with these bugs! Its eyebrows furrowed, and the kindly face instantly became ominous: Trash like Hollis with no firm stance, no outstanding views, no agile thinking, no ability to change the status quo, and ismonly known to be easy to manipte, also dares topete with me!?


    Mayor, if theres really no way, we can wait until next term


    There is no next term, no! Kibbott, we dont have a second chance, none! As soon as I step down, there will never be another chance! The cannibal held up three thick fingers: In Caimon Citys history, there have been 51 elven mayors, 42 human mayors, and Im one of only three non-standard race mayors!


    The Blood Moon Sovereign impartially bestows glory upon all races, but some races can obtain more glory due to their appearance, such as elves and humans, known as the standard races. The rest, like beastmen, cannibals, and goblins, are non-standard races.


    After years of artificial selection, the appearance of non-standard races has be closer and closer to the standard races. The most primitive and grotesque non-standard races were reforged and remade on the spot in the infant stage itself, never even making it through the doors of the foster homes.


    You know what Ive given up for this, right? The cannibal tapped his teeth: I pulled out all my fangs and reced them with neat, straight teeth; the first thing I do every morning is trim my nails, because cannibals can grow inch-long sharp ws overnight; I get photon skin rejuvenation every week to ensure my skin doesnt get unsightly wrinkles.


    Even after doing so much, if not for the citizens curiosity, I wouldnt have been elected mayor! Even if I, ndor Fernand Snow, have three gold degrees, am a two-winged gold sorcerer, and have many other titles Ive forgotten myself, the citizens would not give me a second chance, just like you wouldnt watch a clowns second performance.


    Kibbott, do you know why I chose you to be my secretary? Because youre a goblin, only you can understand my circumstances, only you have experienced the ridicule I once suffered.


    The goblin Kibbott on the light screen hesitated to speak. The cannibal Fernand Snow raised his fake eyebrows and asked, What do you want to say?


    Mayorwhy didnt you save the citizens? Kibbotts voice was somewhat sad: You clearly knew it was foreign realm sorcerers invading, but first you said it was all rumors, nothing had happened.


    Then you said there was a serial killer, and the Heresy Court was investigating.


    Finally, only when it was toote did you announce there was a terrorist attack, and mobilized all the citys armed forces.


    If you had announced the truth from the beginning


    Announcing the truth from the beginning would only have caused widespread panic among the citizens, leading torge numbers of people fleeing together, giving the invaders an opportunity. Fernand Snow said calmly: So what do you think I should have done? Facing over a hundred scattered, prepared foreign realm sorcerers, I had already arranged for the Heresy Court to take action as soon as possible.


    And the research institute and the church! Kibbott said: If they were willing to take action, they definitely wouldnt have let the invaders be so rampant!


    They were unwilling. The invaders did not harm their interests, so they had no reason or obligation to protect Caimon City.


    But youre the mayor! If you had pressured them to take a stand in public, the citizens would surely have supported you!


    Fernand Snow nced at Kibbott.


    I see now, Hollis just wants me to step down, but you want me dead.


    No, I, I didnt mean that


    Its true as you said, if I had publicly pressured them, to maintain their reputations that theyve barely built up over the years, the research institute and the church would most likely have taken action to help expel the invaders.


    Fernand Snow said coldly: But no one can utilize the Sacred Bloodline and Moonshadow without paying a price, no one. When my term ends, what awaits me is inevitably a long death, a warning to other rulers.


    Kibbott looked dejected: So we can only watch as the citizens are ravaged by the invaders


    Do you think I have no conscience? Does your excess conscience need to be unted like this? Fernand Snow waved his hand impatiently: The foreign realm attack will be over soon. The lost positions will quickly be filled, the damaged buildings will soon be rebuilt, adding more jobs, and Caimon City will be restored in just a few months. Also, because of this sudden disaster, citizens consumption desire will increase in the next half year, and most of the elderly who died were unhealthy and unable to escape For Caimon City alone, this attack is actually more pros than cons!


    The goblin Kibbott on the light screen stared nkly at Fernand Snow: Mayor, you


    This isnt just my opinion. The Race Security Bureau, Heresy Court, Development nning Bureauthe entire civil service system is implying this. As long as the attack passes, the next half year will be the city governments chance to build up political achievements.


    Kibbott, the mayor is just a temporary master parasitizing the civil service system. If the civil service system holds this wish, my disaster relief policies will only be slowly implemented. Rather than go against everyones wishes, why not go with the flow, and save some money too.


    Fernand Snow said calmly: Its like gardening, the haphazardly growing flowers and weeds need proper trimming for the garden to look nice. But in the Blood Moon Realm, we cant and arent allowed to trim, and someones helping trim this time, so why not just enjoy it?


    More importantly. He spread his hands: The Sacred Bloodline thirsts for corpses, Moonshadow loves death Both races are enjoying this ughter, this is a game of the gods. The city government cant upset them, you understand right?


    The goblin mumbled: This is going too far


    If you want to go further in the future, dont care about good and evil, the government only cares about order and chaos. Fernand Snow rapped the table: Alright, ss is over. When you get back, take one-fifthno, one-third from my vault to win over the non-standard race councilors. Then take one-seventh to Sylin, and have that woodpecker kill all the remnants of Hollis and the Everlife Elixir club!


    Kibbott was somewhat panic-stricken: Mayor, how could youyoull still have to undergo a memory review when you get out of prison


    Ill erase this memory segment myself. Fernand Snow said lightly.


    But Hollis isnt a normal person, hes a human councilor. The Heresy Court will definitely investigate this to the end! This is gambling!


    Theres no chance if we dont gamble! Fernand Snows voice was icy cold, his eyes as big as copper bells, the chilling killing intent making Kibbott realize for the first time that this mayor was a cannibal: I finally persuaded councilors of the other races Even the elves agreed with my n The various races of Caimon City are finally going to unite for the first time


    If were lucky, well be the first to discover the correct virtual gateway, the first to invade the foreign realm, and this achievement will be enough to please the Blood Moon Sovereign, ensuring my reelection, giving me more time to prepare!


    Too bad cannibals always have bad luck Fernand Snow gritted his teeth: But no matter what, I cant end my term early, and absolutely cant hand the mayors seat to the bootlicking Hollis! Humans are more arrogant than elves, more short-sighted than goblins,zier than beastmen, and greedier than cannibals Humans are the most unreliable race, they cant wait to abandon their bodies and take on the Sacred Bloodlines blood and wear Moonshadows skin, then turn around and exploit their own people even more ruthlessly! Things being as they are, we have no choice but to make small mistakes!


    Kibbott looked absolutely incredulous: Assassinating councilors is a small mistake? Then whats a big mistake?


    Getting caught is a big mistake. Fernand Snow said coldly.


    The scenery outside stopped flowing, and a voice sounded from the cabins speaker: Mayor Fernand Snow, transport ship 322 has arrived at Shattered Lake Prison.


    Fernand Snow walked to the window. His fingers lit up, and he tapped his own temple, pulling out a thin white strand and tossing it outside into the sea, where a finger shark leapt up and swallowed it.


    Ive already forgotten what I just said to you. He looked at the young secretary on the light screen: Ill leave it to you, goblin.


    After that, Fernand Snow turned off the light screen and left the room. Apanied by two Blood Mad Hunters, he disembarked from the transport ship and stepped into Shattered Lake Prison.


    Within the yellow line, two neatly dressed prison guards were waiting.


    The hunters didnt give Fernand Snow much face and handed the documents to the more handsome guard: Theres only one prisoner for this transport, please sign to acknowledge receipt.


    The handsome guard checked the documents and nodded: Confirmed, its Caimon City Mayor ndor Fernand Snow.


    Did youe alone to move the supplies on the ship?


    Sorry, Im not sure if there was an issue with the ingredients deliveredst time, but right now half of the prisoners and most of the guards have upset stomachs and are lining up at the infirmary. Could the hunters and sailors please help move the supplies?


    The hunter grumbled: I heard Caimon City recently discovered a batch of toxicla fatscould it be Of course, no problem, but we dont know where the warehouse is.


    Ill lead the way for you. The handsome guard looked at his colleague: You take the mayor to register in the Register of Sinners and arrange his cell.


    Yes.


    Fernand Snow turned his head and looked at the prison guard next to him who had no presence at all. He wasnt sure if it was the ring sunlight, but he felt the others face was a bit blurred.


    Mayor Fernand Snow, wee to Shattered Lake Prison. You will experience home away from home here.


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 Chapter 124: The Humiliation of the Sacred Bloodline

    Chapter 124: The Humiliation of the Sacred Bloodline


    Shattered Lake Prison, Medical Staff Activity Hall.


    The 25 medical staff members of the prison medical team were all gathered here, sitting around arge table.


    They all wore crow masks and ck robes, so no one could see each others expressions. But from the heavy atmosphere that was almost solidified, it was clear that they were not feeling calm.


    Leader. Medical staff [201] broke the silence: You dont have a way either?


    Although they didnt know who the leader was, generally, the leader of each Blood Moon prison medical team was a two-winged gold sorcerer who had exhausted their potential, while the medical staff who came to the prison for the Blood Embrace ceremony were basically one-winged silver sorcerers. So the leader was the strongest one here.


    Theres no way. The leader said bitterly: Theres a three-winged saint in the ck Coffin, whose bloodline strength and power far exceed mine. The Blood Lock he cast is simply not something I can contend with.


    Some of the medical staff couldnt help butugh bitterly: Who could have thought that the Blood Lock our sacred bloodline used to restrain lower races, would one day be used against us?


    Miracle  Blood Lock was originally a restraining miracle that was only applicable within the sacred bloodline.


    At that time, the sacred bloodline was not the current Institute System, but a very inefficient and crude Family System. Multiplication of followers and expansion of the n depended entirely on high-level sacred bloodlines finding suitable candidates, and then conducting Embraces with uncertain sess rates, in order to convert the other party into a low-level descendant.


    The ws of the family system were enormous. Not only did the bloodline concentration of each generation of descendants decrease significantly, but the Embrace Ceremony also required the consumption of true blood from high-level sacred bloodlines. More importantly  the recipients of the Embrace had to love the high-level sacred bloodline.


    It goes without saying that the sacred bloodlines of that era were extremely scarce, and extremelyunited.


    No matter how long the lifespan of the sacred bloodline was, in the long run the number could only decrease, their power weaken. Not to mention these family bonds based on love often drove the sacred bloodlines mad for the injury or death of a family member  they would be willing to leave their nest for a single member, and fight any enemy to the death.


    In contrast to the love for family members, the sacred bloodline was mercilessly cold towards other races. Therefore, the way the sacred bloodline coexisted with the world was either the sacred bloodline destroying all enemies and turning the entire region into a paradise for themselves and hell for others; or the enemies destroying all sacred bloodlines andpletely annihting this monster race bound by love.


    It was not until the Blood Moon Archon unified the Sacred Blood Moon Shadow, reformed the old ways of survival, and ordered both races to ept the Institute System and Church System, that the two races developed and expanded to what they are today in just a short millennium.


    Under the Institute System, the sacred bloodlines no longer needed to find suitable descendants themselves, because the top talents of all races were eager to be members of the Institute and obtain eternal life.


    Abolishing the Embrace Ceremony and recing it with the Blood Transfusion Ceremony only turned these lucky ones into preparatory descendants. To truly be a member of the sacred bloodline, they still had to go to prison for the Blood Embrace Ceremony to draw nourishment from death, so the sacred bloodline did not have to pay any price for reproduction  because the dead had already paid the price.


    And the original Blood Lock was possible because the low-level descendants had the true blood of high-level sacred bloodlines flowing in them. Therefore, as long as a high-level sacred bloodline activated the Blood Lock, they could sense the location of the descendants, and even control the actions of the descendants.


    If a high-level sacred bloodline died, they could even be reborn in the body of the descendant!


    After the shackles of love were removed, the family system naturally copsed. Therefore, there was no more Embrace, and the Blood Lock derived from it should have been thrown into the garbage dump of history to rot.


    But after being perfected by the Blood Moon Archon, the Blood Lock became the most important miracle for the sacred bloodline, because its restraint was not limited to the sacred bloodline, but extended to all people in the Blood Moon Kingdom!


    Every baby after being admitted to the nursing home will be imnted with a Miracle Chip, and each Miracle Chip contains a drop of true blood. As the baby grows into an adult, the true blood will also blend into their blood, bone marrow, tissue fluid, and even germ cells, spreading through the whole body!


    It can be said that any child raised in the nursing home in the Blood Moon Kingdom is a preparatory descendant!


    The modern Blood Lock miracle is a three-winged miracle. Therefore, as long as a three-winged sacred bloodline activates the Blood Lock miracle, they can control any Blood Moon citizen with lower power than them, be they human, elf, beastman, or Sacred Blood Moon Shadow!


    Although there was no evidence, many people within the sacred bloodline believed that if a legendary sacred bloodline activated Blood Lock, they could even control every single person in an entire city,manding them to die if they wished!


    However,pared to the terrifying power they held, the sacred bloodline was actually very low-key.


    The outside world knew of the existence of the sacred bloodline, but only knew that they were immortal, that one had to take the graduate entrance exam to be one of them and join the Institute afterwards, etc. Some sacred bloodlines would be councilors, but none would take official positions. Most people only had two impressions of them: doctors and schrs.


    As for recklessly abusing Blood Lock, that kind of thing hadnt happened for thousands of years.


    The application of Blood Lock was limited to prisons and war zones, restricting only criminals and adventurers.


    Even Blood Mad Hunters like Gerard were not allowed to use Blood Lock to control criminals when carrying out missions. In theory, the only people who could legally use the Blood Lock miracle were the Saints lying in the ck Coffins, while the living could only activate it indirectly through the ck Coffins.


    There were many reasons for prohibiting the sacred bloodline from exposing their powers, such as preventing arrogance within the sacred bloodline, preventing rebellion from lower races, maintaining social stability But the fundamental reason was that the Blood Moon Archon did not allow it.


    The social nursing system, the Institute system, the Church system These rules personally established by the Blood Moon Archon were absolutely not to be vited, not even to test the bottom line.


    If the Blood Lock on death row prisoners was visible, they could test and find out what they were not allowed to do; then the Blood Lock on the sacred bloodline was invisible, they wouldnt even have the thought of testing!


    That was why the medical staff were so shocked and angry  after all, even they didnt know the exact location of the ck Coffins, so how did outsiders control the Saints inside them?


    Necromancer! Someone gritted their teeth and said, Thats the only possibility Those despicable lowlifes used necromancy to manipte the Saints Cant we use necromancy topete for control of the Saints?


    We are forbidden from exerting arcane energy and attacking, how can we use necromancy?


    Wait, I remember you need a key to enter the ck Coffin, how could outsiders possibly know the key? Is there an insider?


    Thats right, the people who know the key are the team leader, the warden and the Heresy Court chief. Could it be


    Realizing everyone was looking at him, the team leader panicked: The keys are all sealed by miracles, theres no way I could have leaked them out!


    But the warden is never in the prison, and the chief is far away in the city district. How could the death row prisoners obtain the key through any other channel? The other medical staff questioned bluntly.


    [201] suddenly said: Come to think of it, I heard that a few years ago in Caimon City there appeared a killer called the Controller, whomitted multiple murders. Because the murder methods seemed to involve Blood Lock, my boss was invited by the Heresy Court to conduct internal investigations, although it came to nothing in the end, but it can be confirmed the key did not leak from the secret keepers.


    After the expulsion of [176], everyone vaguely guessed that [201]s boss was probably that Saint of the psychic faction. Unlike memory weavers who could be deceived, the psychic Saint examined the soul itself. Even if the suspect turned themselves into a lunatic, the psychic Saint could still shatter their soul and find the information they wanted from the fragments, as easily as breaking up a Rubiks Cube and reassembling it.


    In the face of a psychic Saint, forgetting was unable to keep secrets.


    Even sister said there was no leak, so there really wasnt.


    Everyone looked towards the medical staff Sylphine with the badge number [222]. She said calmly: So theres only one possibility left  the death row prisoners have a way to find the real ck Coffin key. With such a big incident, the key system is no longer safe, but thats none of our business either. Speaking of which, I have a bad news and a good news, which do you want to hear?


    Whats the bad news?


    The bad news is were really losing face this time. Tomorrow all thirty-six Institutes will know that we sacred bloodline descendants got captured by a few death row prisoners in the prison.


    What about the good news then?


    The good news is were wearing masks, no one knows who we are, so everyone can lose face freely, no one will know the sacred bloodline was humiliated.


    Everyone fell silent, surprised that the youngdy actually had the leisure to joke around. But she was a descendant of the Four Great Institutes, so she had the arrogance to back it up. What was an indelible stain, even a career-affecting disgrace to them, was just a trivial interlude to the youngdy.


    Is there really no other way? Someone asked unwillingly.


    Bloodline Resonance. The team leader said: The Saint in the ck Coffin should have some residual consciousness. If we can establish contact through bloodline resonance, we can lift our Blood Lock.


    How do we generate bloodline resonance?


    I dont know either  intense emotions? Burning desires? Praying to the Blood Moon Archon? Although the chance of sess is extremely low, this is all we can do now.


    Everyone exchanged nces, feeling this was the only resort in their helplessness. So some cursed the death row prisoners in circles, somey on the ground trying to make contact with the ck Coffins through ground vibrations, and what almost made Sylphineugh was that someone was hanging upside down like a bat from the chandelier  iming it was to mimic the meditation posture of ancient sacred bloodlines to increase the chance of resonance.


    Just then, the lounge door was pushed open forcefully, and a guard poked his head in.


    Excuse me everyone, [222], pleasee with me to the medical room.


    Ashe Heath? Sylphine said in surprise: What do you need me for?


    Theres something I need you to do.


    Cant I do it here? [201] stood up and blocked Sylphine. Also, if its work you need done, I can do it in her ce.


    Ashe shook his head firmly: No, I only need [222]. And theres not even a bed here, not convenient to do it.


    Medical staff: Hmm?


    Oh no, the sacred bloodline was about to be humiliated!


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 Chapter 125: Sylphine in the Infirmary

    Chapter 125: Sylphine in the Infirmary


    You cant escape.


    In the infirmary, Sylphine was sweating profusely, her hands covered in fluids. Ashe let out afortable hmm, openly enjoying the medicsbor.


    Dont be so presumptuous. Maybe a miracle will happen!


    Miracles are created by oneself, not by hoping for realitys mercy. Sylphine said calmly, In the Bloodmoon Kingdom, any transportation, consumption, and even vagrancy requires verification by the Miracle Chip. It is quite impressive that you were able topletely remove the Miracle Chip from your body in prison, but it also means you have lost the qualifications to live in modern society. You will be unable to enjoy any public facilities or services  the only ce you can sleep from now on is under a cardboard box on the overpass.


    I can live in the wilderness.


    What about salt? Shelter? Can you find prey? Not to mention, although there are indeed vagabond survivalists living in the wilderness, its only because the Heresy Court is toozy to deal with them. After the ruckus youve caused, the Heresy Court will definitely find ways to hunt you down.


    But its still better than waiting here to die.


    The Blood Moon Tribunal only means possible death, while your choice to escape guarantees death. Sylphine nced at him, applying more force with her hands, Now even the Human Rights Association has no reason to defend you all. The Heresy Court will issue a Special Arrest Warrant, allowing the Blood Mad Hunters to kill you escapees on site.


    Ashe let out a hmm. At least I can choose how I die.


    I didnt realize you were such a tough person.


    Sylphine shook her head and used a tissue to wipe her hands. Alright, the bleeding has basically stopped. By the way, what are you hmm-ing about over there?


    Lying on the bed in front of Sylphine was a severely injured cannibal. Its wounds were nearly gangrenous, forcibly scraped away by Sylphine before being wrapped in bandages, only then did its breathing gradually stabilize as ity unconscious on the bed.


    Thanks. We dont have anyone who can treat the living over there. Ashe waved the earpick in his hand. I was digging my ear and felt sofortable I couldnt help but cry out, sorry about that.


    Digging your ears feels that good?


    Maybe because I can dig while sitting down. As you know, the bathroom doesnt even have chairs. Aside from a mans thighs, theres nowhere else to sit. Ashe came over to check on Fernand Snows condition. Will he be alright?


    Cannibals have strong regenerative abilities. Hell wake up after a few more hours. Sylphine asked, How did he get injured?


    When it came to this, Ashe was also helpless.


    If I said its because he looked at someone else, would you believe it?


    Half an hour ago, Ashe brought Fernand Snow to the lobby to register in the Register of Sinners, then prepared to lock the mayor in his room.


    However, while registering, Fernand Snow nced at Harvey who was in charge of the Register of Sinners. Harvey suddenly erupted, his fingernails abruptly turning into sharp gray ws that stabbed into the cannibals abdomen like spears.


    Although Ashe barely managed to stop the enraged necromancer, he didnt think the cannibal mayor would thank him after waking up.


    In Shattered Lake Prison, a nk death was perhaps the mostfortable death.


    The escape team had long known about the grudge between Harvey and Fernand Snow, and didnt mind letting Harvey take his revenge, but only after they left  in theory, only the Processor of Shattered Lake Prison could receive the life signs of Fernand Snow, but what if?


    For the same reason, after Ashe used sh My Miracle to purify the chips of the five escapees, and Harvey used his necromancy book to control the Processor to add restrictions to all the prison guards, they didnt kill anyone  they didnt even hurt them, only restricted their range of movement.


    It wasnt because their morals were so high and mighty, but because they didnt dare gamble. If the life characteristics of the guards were sent to the Processor in Caimon City after their deaths, alerting the Heresy Court, then not only would their escape fail, even leaving this Shattered Lake would be questionable.


    But none of them had a healing spirit, though Harvey could suture wounds  for a necromancer, suturing corpses was also considered a professional skill.


    However, Ashe didnt dare let Harvey help stop Fernand Snows bleeding, so he came to find the medic for help.


    Of course, in this process Ashe also didnt lift the restrictions on the medics arcane energy, he only had the medic use gauze and bandages to stop the bleeding. Although the medic basically relied on spirits to heal, she still knew these basic treatments.


    It seems yourpanions are not very reliable.


    Of course, Im the only normal one on the team.


    Hearing that makes me worry for your prison break journey.


    Who wouldnt say that? Im responsible for leading the whole team to fly, but its still better than waiting here to die-


    Do you really think so?


    Ashe looked at the crow mask in surprise. Sylphine didnt avoid his gaze, staring straight at him.


    Do you really feel like your only option in Shattered Lake Prison is death? In less than a month, youvee up with feasible ways to escape, establishing your position in the prison Even if, as you say, someone outside the prison has framed you, do you really only have this path to take?


    Compared to escaping Shattered Lake Prison and bing enemies with the entire Bloodmoon Kingdom, wouldnt it be simpler, safer to find loopholes and survive in Shattered Lake Prison?


    If you just wanted to live ignobly, you wouldnt have chosen the most dangerous path of escape. Youre doing this to satisfy some desire, even willing to bet your life on it.


    Ashe was slightly startled.


    Carefully recalling his actions over the past half month, he realized that he did seem to have never considered epting thews punishment No, bearing Heaths me and spending the rest of his life in prison.


    From the beginning, he had been thinking about how to escape. Auroras Sorcerer Handbook, the swordswoman, Igor These were all opportunities for his escape, but the idea of escaping seemed to be deeply rooted in his mind, never wavering.


    Did he not know the extremely low chance of a sessful escape, and the risk of death?


    Did he not know that even if he seeded, what awaited him would still be endless pursuit?


    He could almost foresee his own oue  hungry, cold, tired, every person he encountered an enemy, no longer a ce for him in the Bloodmoon Kingdom.


    A person cannot resist the collective, they can only blend into the collective.


    In fact, if he just wanted to live ignobly, there should still be other ways. For example, taking out his knowledge reserves, copying texts and the like, greatly increasing his contribution; or carefully preparing a xiangsheng/crosstalk script, turning the Blood Moon Tribunal into his own show.


    There were many, many more, each method safer than his escape, some even with higher sess rates.


    But whydid he not have any thoughts of surrender orpromise from the start?


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 Chapter 126: Embrace

    Chapter 126: Embrace


    Are you doing this for freedom? For revenge? Or are you enjoying the pleasure of being enemies with the world?


    At this moment, Sylphine felt as if she saw a sinister light shing in Ashes pitch-ck eyes. She had only seen such eyes on her teacher before  eyes that longed to see the world burn.


    But Ashe quickly put on his familiar cheeky grin, making Sylphine wonder if she had imagined it.


    I just want to be able to pick my ears anytime, anywhere, he shrugged and smiled. Instead of having to go to the bathroom every time I want to pick my ears or nose.


    Also, being exploited without making money really crosses the bottom line for a worker like me. Whenever I think about this, I get so depressed that my hormones are out of whack and my endocrine system fails.


    Sylphine asked, Is it worth dying for something like this?


    Not worth it, but I may not necessarily die, Ashe smiled. As long as I leave the Bloodmoon Kingdom, I can naturally start a new life.


    Leave? Sylphine was puzzled. Where do you want to go? How will you leave?


    I dont know, do you have any good rmendations?


    I do! Ive read about many other kingdoms in books. I most want to go to the monstrous kingdom built in the Abyss, then the ephemeral kingdom where all souls have eternal life, and also the ster kingdom that controls the skies


    Ashe waved his hand, No, I actually hope you can rmend a way to leave Bloodmoon.


    How would I know how to leave Bloodmoon Each kingdom is apletely closed off world, there is no conventional way to travel between kingdoms. If there was, they would have fought and be one kingdom long ago. Sylphine was a little exasperated. You dont even know how to leave yet you want to leave Bloodmoon? Give it up Ashe, the Blood Mad Hunters hurt a lot when they hit people.


    But Im sure I can leave Bloodmoon.


    Im very doubtful of your earlier im to be the only normal person on the team now. Theres no hope at all, what miracle are you still hoping for?


    Ashe thought for a moment and said, Although it sounds far-fetched as evidence, I learned from the Destiny Oracle that I will leave Bloodmoon in the future.


    Sylphine was stunned. Destiny Oracle? Really?


    Really.


    Damn it, how did you get such good luck?!


    Ashe blinked. Im escaping from prison now, not going on vacation.


    But Im still so envious! Sylphine said sourly. For us medics, our future lives are decided early on. Were only allowed to live under the glory of Bloodmoon, everything we do has rules and regtions, life is full of untouchable warning lines everywhere.


    She said dejectedly, Other than virtual world exploration and surgery, there is no passion in my future. Its like a pond of stagnant water slowly turning foul.


    Then do you want toe with me? Ashe smiled. We stillck a medic on our team.


    Sylphine couldnt remember how many times she had been stunned speechless by Ashes words.


    Are you serious?


    Of course, Im not inviting you to go to the bathroom with me. This is a prison break, how can I joke about it?


    Youre kidding, Im a medic with a bright future ahead, why would I go on the run with you and live such a precarious life?


    Why are you asking me? Ashe spread his hands. Im just giving you a choice as a friend. You should ask yourself  do you want to abandon your current life ande with me?


    Sylphine hurriedly retorted, What friend Thats right! Last time you came up with all kinds of excuses to borrow my medic uniform, it was to use for your prison break, wasnt it?


    Yes.


    Then how can you call us friends? You were clearly just using me!


    Being friends with you and using you are not mutually exclusive. I hope youll join my team, but I also hope you get to live the life you want. Working where you like is living, working where you dont like is punishment.


    Some selfishness is understandable, but I wont be so selfish as to think others are selfless. So I wont say nonsense that even con artists are toozy to say, like trust me.


    Ashe held out his hand to Sylphine, Ill just ask, do you want toe with me?


    Thump.


    Her stagnant heart seemed to beat, her cold blood seemed to warm. Born in a top nurturing facility, strictly educated since young, became one of the sacred bloodline before even graduating, never vited any rules orws  Sylphine encountered such outrageous invitation for the first time.


    It was like a fish living in a pond being asked by a passing bird if it wanted to leave together.


    I dont want to.


    What a pity.


    Ashe didnt expect to lure away the medic with just a few words. He went over, picked up the cannibal mayor, See you next time then, [222].


    Sylphine suddenly had the urge to tell him her real name, but held back: Will there be a next time? Even if there is, you definitely wont recognize me.


    Then youll have to remind me, Ashe smiled. Ill tell you stories about whats outside the Bloodmoon Kingdom, look forward to it.


    Wait.


    Ashe stopped and looked at Sylphine strangely. Sylphine was at a loss for words, she didnt know what she wanted to say either  tell him to surrender? Tell him to stay here and wait for death?


    After a moment of silence, she turned her head away and said softly, If, if I have a way for you to clear your charges, and even leave Crake to start a new life, able to live openly in the Bloodmoon Kingdom, would you be willing?


    There was indeed a way for a heinous cult leader to have his crimes pardoned and leave prison.


    That was to turn the criminal into a Bloodmoon Shade.


    Crimesmitted by the two Bloodmoon races were not subject to normal judicial procedures, only handled by the Church and Research Institute. If the criminal became one of the sacred bloodline, they had to be handed over to the Research Institute. The mostmon punishment the Institute gave its kin was house arrest and forcedbor, usually in centuries-long sentences, but they would not execute their kin.


    However, converting between the sacred and the shades requiredplex procedures, absolutely not something death row inmates in prison could aplish, unless


    Unless the most primitive kin propagation method was used, such as the Embrace Ceremony.


    But besides the sacred bloodlines strong will, the Embrace Ceremony also had requirements for the recipient  the recipient needed to fall in love with


    Sylphine suddenly realized an issue.


    Why did she want to keep Ashe around, even willing to Embrace him? Because she didnt want Ashe to leave, she wanted Ashe to stay.


    The pond fish wouldnt leave with the bird, but would drag the bird into the pond, hoping the bird would also be a fish.


    Did the Embrace Ceremony really require the recipient to fall for the sacred bloodline?


    In many bio-augmentation surgeries, there were cases of the patients personality changing due to the augmentations. Mechanical augmentations reduced desires, leading to the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment instead; Abyssal augmentations increased destructive urges, making them more irritable and angry; Aviary augmentations made the patients enjoy eating insect cuisine


    The sacred bloodline were not all telepaths, how could they know the recipients true feelings for them?


    They only assumed the recipient fell in love with them.


    Perhaps this was not a prerequisite for the ritual, but a result of the ritual.


    The name Embrace means the first embrace. And the truth behind the Embrace Ceremony was perhaps more romantic, yet also more cruel, than recorded.


    Im not willing.


    Sylphine looked at Ashe. Ashe shrugged, Although I dont know what method you mentioned, I probably wouldnt be willing either way.


    Why not?


    While it may be too small a sample size to generalize, from what Ive gathered in prison, I feel the outside Bloodmoon Kingdom is perhaps just a bigger Crake. Ashe sighed, I dont think Im some freedom terrorist, but I feel I probably still wouldnt be able to breathe out there.


    Its not that Bloodmoon cannot amodate me, but that I cannot amodate Bloodmoon.


    How arrogant, Sylphine smiled faintly. You really are a cult leader through and through.


    Ill take that as apliment for now, sorry to disappoint your goodwill.


    Its fine, I regretted it as soon as I said it anyway, fortunately you didnt agree. Sylphine waved her hand. See you, Ashe Heath.


    Ashe suddenly remembered something. Speaking of which, I still dont know your name.


    If I tell you my name, Id be breaking the rules. And you say youre not a cult leader, trying to seduce me into crime right before leaving?


    Youre right, but it doesnt feel good to part like this. We should at least shake hands.


    Ashe directly tossed the cannibal mayor aside and walked over to extend his right hand to Sylphine.


    While it may be nothing to you, Ashe said seriously, Ive always been grateful that you kept pulling me back each time from deaths grasp. Several times I felt like I heard a crowd critiquing how I didnt die spectacrly enough


    That may be an early sign of schizophrenia, I suggest getting a new brain.


    Every statement from you expands my understanding of biotech


    Sylphine looked at Ashes hand, and suddenly felt an urge. She walked over and hugged Ashe briefly.


    In Ashes startled moment, she let go and stepped back a few steps, murmuring softly: As expected, its not that simple Alright, the farewell ceremony is over, you should get going.


    Huh? Youre actually a girl?


    Do you have any objections? The more you guess, the closer I am tomitting a crime.


    No objections at all. And to preserve the feeling from earlier, Ive decided to never bathe again from now on-


    Get out of here!


    Watching Ashe leave the medical room carrying Fernand, Sylphine felt somewhat downcast for some reason, feeling empty inside.


    She shook her head, shaking off the pointless thoughts, and turned to head back to the rest lounge.


    This was just a trivial interlude in her millennia of life. She couldnt ept Ashes invitation  her bloodline didnt allow it, her soul didnt allow it, her mission didnt allow it.


    Because she was Sylphine Gauven, the most gifted of the bloodline in a millennium.


    Just as she grasped the side door handle, she suddenly heard the thump of a heartbeat.


    But it wasnt her heartbeat.


    It came from below the prison, from the depths of Broken Lake, where the finger shark guarded the ck Coffin tomb!


    Junior your Blood Lock needs help?


    Sylphine didnt push open the door. She looked at the pitch-ck, reflective door panel that could almost serve as a mirror.


    She saw that her blood-red eyes were smeared ck.


    They looked like ordinary human eyes, like Ashe Heaths eyes.


    No need. Go back to sleep.


    The heartbeat gradually faded away, disappearing into Broken Lakes waves.


    Sylphine pushed open the door and returned to the medical officers lounge.


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 Chapter 127: Staying in Prison to Die

    Chapter 127: Staying in Prison to Die


    Shattered Lake Prison, mens restroom.


    In the dozens of square meters of restroom, more than thirty people were crammed together. Only seven were guards, the rest were death row inmates wearing ssic ck and white striped suits.


    Angus! Come out! Dont hog the stall without taking a dump!


    Amanro! I remember you dont have much contribution left. How dare you offend me like this?


    Desmond,e out! Ill owe you a favor, okay? Come on out!


    Guard Nago squeezed his thighs together as he banged on five stalls, but not a single stall opened its door. The death row inmates around himughed mockingly, the ridiculingughter making Nago flush with shame and resentment, wishing he could bite his teeth to pieces.


    These bastards who deserved to be fish food had upied all the stalls!


    Charvik, how much longer?


    Another guard whose face was extremely ugly as he squeezed his legs together opened his light screen: 13 more minutes. ording to the Restroom Usage Regtions, the same user cannot stay in a stall for more than 60 minutes. Just endure 13 more minutes!


    Nago squeezed out between gritted teeth: But I cant hold it anymore


    What, no way, dont tell me a guard is going to wet his pants? How disgusting!


    Shhh, shhh-


    That whistle is no good. If you want to make someone unable to hold their urine through sound, you should use a sharp, urgent sound to make them tense up, causing the dder to contract and the urge to pee to increase dramatically. The reason people may involuntarily urinate when in danger is the same principle, so we should scrape stainless steel mirrors to make a sound like this!


    A sharp, piercing sound echoed through the restroom. Nago instantly straightened his waist and scurried to the urinal. Before he could even unzip, seven or eight heads were already there watching. Other guards who wanted to help were blocked by a wall of people.


    Because of the restrictions, the death row inmates could not touch or attack him, but they had no intention to either. They simply watched Nagos next actions with the gaze of watching a circus performance, without viting any rules.


    Nago really did not want to unzip his pants, but he steeled himself and unzipped!


    Tsk tsk tsk


    Thats it?


    Compared to when I was a kid


    Waves of disdainfulments made Nago so angry he almost burned a hole in his belly. Gritting his teeth, he said, What do you know! You bunch ofyou bunch of


    Bunch of what? Go on, curse me, Mr. Guard.


    Louder, yell it out. You want to be a guard with that tiny voice?


    The guards going to curse me, Im so excited!


    Nagos face turned red with rage. After a long pause, the only thing he managed to squeeze out was: ill-mannered guys!


    Ah, the guard called me ill-mannered, Im so angry, so unsatisfied!


    Ill-mannered, such a dirty word. Nago, how could you curse so viciously!


    Wah wah wah, Im crying from being scolded! Oh, just kidding, Im actuallyughing.


    The death row inmates guffawed loudly. The other guards who saw Nago being humiliated also turned red with rage, but they didnt dare rush over to help Nago either  they also couldnt hold it in, and would leak if they moved violently.


    By the way, Nago, have you blocked it? Howe youre noting out yet?


    One inmate realized: Dont tell me youre the type who cant pee when people are watching?


    No way? Then Id rather stare until my eyes bleed without blinking.


    Its time to test everyones stare! Nago, 10 minutes left, well help you hold it!


    If not for the urge to pee assaulting his soul, Nago was sure he wouldve passed out from rage. Just then, the restroom door was shoved open forcefully!


    p!


    Nagos expression instantly rxed, his whole body easing up.


    What are you guys doing? Ashe looked at therge group of people gathered around the urinal.


    Watching Nago. The death row inmates replied very obediently.


    Why? Dont you need to go? Whoever doesnt, tell me and Ill take her to the womens room peeing is nothing to look at, turn around, I dont like people watching me pee!


    The inmates and guards looked at each other. Someone bravely spoke up: If you can


    If I can make you lick the restroom clean then youll be willing to turn around? Fine, Ill go get the Register of Sinners right now


    Whoosh!


    Everyone turned around simultaneously, submitting to Ashes demon


    might. Ashe shook her head helplessly at them, and patted Nagos shoulder as she passed by: No need to thank me, consider it repayment for the boots you gave me back then.


    Nago:


    Ashe, you really are a


    Thank you for your help! Since he wasnt done peeing yet, Nago could only endure the humiliation and say through gritted teeth.


    Ah, youre too polite. Ashe went to the furthest urinal and carried out small metabolism: Is the amodation stillfortable? Feel free to provide feedback.


    Now Nagopletely lost control: You locked us in the restroom, and youre asking if werefortable with the amodation?


    No choice, the restroom is the only ce that allows excretion in the prison. If I locked you somewhere else, you could explode internally from holding it in without polluting the environment.


    Private rooms


    That wont work. You have to be detained together, and the guards must stay with the inmates. Although these scumbags wont help me, theyll be happy to see you suffer and wont let you sabotage my ns.


    Nago said coldly: You think you can get away with this?


    The fact that youre starting to care about my future means youre quite satisfied with the living conditions here, right? Ashe zipped up her pants: Well, Im off.


    Demon! Some death row inmates immediately rushed over to surround Ashe: Take me with you! Im willing to follow your orders!


    Me too! Im very good at licking, in every sense of the word!


    Im a two-wing caster, Annoying, you can definitely use me!


    And me too


    Before, when there was no chance or hope, they could let it go. But now there was suddenly a chance to escape, those desires suppressed deep in the death row inmates hearts ignited like kindling, and they scrambled to join Ashes gang.


    Ashe raised both hands to calm everyone down: Stop, stop, Ive heard your wishes already. Dont worry, Ill do my best to satisfy your desires and leave not a single one of you


    The death row inmates faces lit up, while the guards expressions turned solemn.


    all staying in prison until death!


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 Chapter 128: Let’s Hold the Blood Moon Tribunal

    Chapter 128: Let��s Hold the Blood Moon Tribunal


    The death row inmates shouted in unison: Why!?


    Ashe stood with his hands on his hips, speaking righteously: To be honest, Im actually a good person. I wish I could feed you bunch of scumbags to the fishes immediately. How could I possibly let you get out and wreak havoc on society? Just stay here quietly to ept ideological remolding, and strive to die early. Dont let me see you guys again!


    But youre a cult leader yourself!


    Im not, I didnt, Im innocent.


    Who would believe that!


    You dont believe such an honest good person like me. Ill remember you. Hmm, Ill vote for you during the Blood Moon Tribunal.


    Wait, hold on. A handsome and tall death row inmate stopped him: Although I dont know about your escape n, no matter what, I can serve as bait to divert the Heresy Courts attention, increasing your chance of escaping sessfully. You dont have to trust me, butpared to you, the Heresy Court will definitely pay more attention to me, Nightingale Joelle. I can definitely reduce the pressure you face tremendously.


    Ah, its Joelle. I remember you. Ashe smiled: Back then, Igor wanted to find teammates. The first one he rmended was you. He believed you were very powerful and witty, skilled in healing and evasion, and understood all the big and small ck spots in Caimon City. Simply the best ally.


    Joelle smiled: Im ttered by the Beasts favor


    So he strongly demanded that I leave you here to die. Ashe sneered: Back when we came to recruit you, you refused and ignored us. Now the n has seeded, its your turn to fail to reach!


    Igor is much more petty than me. You offended him, I guess before leaving he used the Register of Sinners to make you lick the piss pool clean. Hey, anyone here have diabetes? Maybe you can help adjust the taste for him?


    Pushing away the ugly-looking Joelle, Ashe had barely taken two steps before being blocked by the prison guards again.


    Ashe Heath. Nago said coldly: I know for stubborn and vicious free will criminal offenders like you, reasoning is useless. So Im not interested in reasoning with you. I just hope you either kill me or remove my restraints! I cant stand this humiliation!


    Ashe blinked: This humiliation? Isnt your current treatment just the daily treatment for death row inmates? Everyone goes through this


    But were not death row inmates! We shouldnt suffer such shackles! Nago looked over the death row inmates: While you


    They deserve their sins, I know. Ashe said lightly: Just think of this as a rare career experience. It will also benefit your future work. After all, how can you be warden when you havent even been an inmate?


    Besides, these so-called shackles just forbid you from attacking, insulting, and pissing randomly, right? Isnt this just the rules you should follow anyway? Why are you so resistant about it?


    As for you being unable to piss when watched, thats because youre too sensitive. Its not my problem


    Nago was speechless for a moment. Ashe pushed him aside and whispered in his ear:


    Dont think its an insignificant good deed so you dont want to do it. Dont think its a negligible evil act so you just do it casually


    Im not asking you to sympathize with these scumbags. I just hope you guys dont be scumbags.


    Of course, you can also see this as me getting revenge on you prison guards. He patted Nagos shoulder: Next time when bringing death row inmates to the Blood Moon Tribunal, be gentler, just routinely send them to their deaths. Dont treat the inmates as toys.


    When you dont treat others as human, youre not far from them yourself.


    After saying that, Ashe left. Nago stood there in a daze, mixed emotions in his heart


    p!


    Ashe suddenly rushed back in to wash his hands in the sink, Almost forgot. Then swiftly left again.


    Nago looked at the shoulder Ashe had just patted, feeling even moreplicated.


    In the central hall, the five viins gathered.


    Necromancer Harvey said: Now except for us five, everyone else in the prison has limited mobility and death row inmate level restrictions added. No one can affect our n.


    Swindler Igor said: I learned from the Hunter that the transport ship must be back at Caimon Lake Port by 7pm at thetest, otherwise the port will inquirebecause the port staff must get off work at exactly 7:30pm.


    Gourmet Langna said: The transport ship has been cleaned up.


    Woodpecker Ronat gave a thumbs up, shing a smile that made his teeth shine: Ive learned how to control the transport ship! The five of us meet the minimum crew requirements to operate the transport ship!


    That means we can leave anytime now. Ashe looked around: The only problem is, Harvey, if you want to kill Fernand Snow, you have to dy his death until after 6pm. Whether by poison or bleeding him out, the point is to give us ample escape time.


    Orwe can execute that n which can be called insane and spur of the moment.


    Harvey ripped open a sky blue square package with his teeth, using his tongue to roll out a milky white candy inside his mouth. Ashe took a close look  wasnt this the Moonlight Candy from the Snow White brand that had advertised on Caimon Channel One? This moonlight candy imed to be whiter than snow and sweeter than a princess. More lewdly, in themercial the model acting as the princess did a split after eating one candy.


    Ashe really couldnt help but be interested  after all he couldnt do the splits.


    But Harvey actually had this kind of hobby?


    He saw Harvey gently crushing the candy with his tongue, a hint of liveliness slowly surfacing in his lifeless eyes: I choose the spur of the moment n.


    Me too. Surprisingly the second approval came from Igor. His eyes now looked crazily excited like a pervert seeing a beauty: I cant miss such a good performance opportunity.


    I object. Langna took out a nail file to groom his nails, saying lightly: Leaving quietly is the safest.


    I stand with Langna. Ronat smiled: Whether emotionally or interest-wise, the spur of the moment n is too risky.


    2 vs 2, the decisive vote was in Ashes hands.


    I naturally prefer the higher safety original n. After Ashe said this, Harvey and Igors expressions turned ugly, while Langna and Ronat smiled.


    But


    Ashe spread his hands: This is my first time being caught, first time bing a death row inmate, first time being jailed, first time attending the Blood Moon Tribunal And now its also the first time escaping.


    With so many firsts, its not too much to add one more.


    Lets use our first Blood Moon Tribunal to say hello to this sick country.


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 Chapter 129: Judge Ashe Heath

    Chapter 129: Judge Ashe Heath


    Red Mist Research Institute, Laboratory 13.


    Lane pushed a cart into theb, unloading three body bags onto the long table. He let out a sigh, Professor, the new materials have arrived!


    Coming.


    Lawrence emerged from the back room, ncing at the ten body bags on the table. Hisrge fish-like eyes blinked as he caught a whiff of the rotten stench permeating from the corpses. He nodded, What about the dolphin?


    The mother dolphin you specified is already in the tank downstairs, but it was toorge to bring up. Professor, did you need the dolphin right after its death? When do you need it?


    Not yet, you take care of her for now.


    Yes sir. Professor, did you want to examine a live dolphin? Should I have the tank brought up here?


    No need to move it up here.


    Not for research material, and not to bring to theb?


    Lane blinked in confusion, Professor, did you really want to research dolphins?


    Of course. Lawrence calmly replied. But remember to deliver her to my hometer.


    Damn!


    As an outstanding human research assistant, Lane felt his worldview shaken  the rumors of blue scaled fishmen favoring dolphins were true!


    Lets unpack the boxes. Lawrence said. Youre lucky. When I was an intern, we didnt have nearly as many research materials. Watch closely and learn.


    Yes sir!


    Lawrence opened the first body bag. Human male, obese youth, non-sorcerer, Level 1 ordinary material. You can practice on this one.


    Beastman male, muscr youth, non-sorcerer, Level 3 ordinary material. This ones for your practice too.


    Human female, average youth, non-sorcerer, Level 3 ordinary material. Practice on this.


    Elf male, muscr middle-aged, non-sorcerer, Level 7 rare material. This ones mine.


    Whats the hospital doingnevermind. Dog, male, muscr adult, non-sorcerer, Level 2 ordinary material. You can practice on this one.


    After opening thest bag, Lawrence shook his head. 8 ordinary, 2 rare, and not a single sorcerer corpse. Our luck isnt the greatest this time.


    Professor, this is already really good! Lane quickly added. Usually the hospital only sends the institute around 20 corpses a day, mostly Level 1 ordinary ones that died from illness or old age. And that small amount still has to be divided amongst the whole institute. When I was learning from Professor On, sometimes we didnt have new materials for a whole week.


    Its only been plentiful recently. Theres even too much for us to use up before the death aura dissipates after 7 days deadline. Weve been working overtime nonstop.


    I see, I see. Lawrences mood was decent, even adding some fishman bubble sounds as he spoke. We really must thank those foreign sorcerers. They shoulde to Caimon City every yearno, every month.


    Professor! Lane was shocked. Watch your words! The Archon will be upset!


    Rx, were the sacred bloodline favored by the Archon. He wont withdraw his grace over some careless words.


    But still, what if someone else hears and reports to-


    Alright, alright. So you think I said wrong?


    Of course you were. Every month would be too damaging to the economy, Caimon City cant handle such frequent devastation. Lane seriously replied. Itd be more reasonable if they went to Feimeng City every month instead. A third of the new materials from Caimon already get sent to their research institute.


    Lawrence looked at his new student  as expected of a former human, much more devious than a fishman.


    A light screen suddenly popped up, notifying Lawrence his appointment time had arrived. He told his student, Lane, get started on pre-processing the materials. I need to step out for a bit.


    Yes Professor.


    After taking off hisb coat and spraying on some perfume to mask the corpse stench, Lawrence briskly left theb.


    Passing by the downstairs tank, he ogled at the dolphins graceful figure and alluring eyes, wiping the drool from the corner of his mouth before stepping into the blood moonlight campus.


    Despite returning to the institute only a few days ago, they had swiftly allocated him ab.


    Although Lawrence felt he was weak and useless, his source bloodline was still top 5 in the entire institute. Thus, even though he had offended the prospective big shots across the four major institutes, institute still allocate resources to him.


    Lane was also a research assistant assigned to him by the institute. Although Lawrence was unwilling, it was mandatory for young researchers to take on students, plus there were many misceneous tasks in experimental research that required an assistants help.


    Lawrence had also been someones student before  this was a necessary step before undergoing the blood transformation. It was akin to a trial period or internship before changing races.


    Although prospective blood heirs had passed the research assistant exams and had the qualifications, many of the institutes projects conflicted with mainstream values. The institute needed to ensure the neers could integrate into their group of smart people, not model citizens brainwashed by propaganda.


    Of course, the trial period was ostensibly for research assistants to quickly advance their faction boundaries to Silver-rank by gaining early exposure. But if the new recruit couldnt blend into the institute family, their fate generally wasnt pleasant  there was a joke in the institute, today youre my student, tomorrow youre my material.


    The institute wouldnt intentionally breakws, but thew couldnt touch the institute either.


    Incidentally, the Red Mist Institutes main research was on the Blood and Necromancy factions, both requiring copious corpses as research materials. Lawrence specialized in Necromancy, and thanks to abundant materials, his experiments had progressed rapidly in recent days. He had even summoned a new spirit, nudging his Necromancy faction close to breaking through the Silver boundary limit.


    If he was still stubbornly grinding his source blood in prison, he wouldnt have caught such a great timing. As the saying goes, fate really does work in mysterious ways.


    Arriving at the bar, Lawrence greeted the snake owner, whoughed, You are here again? Got some good new blood recently, want to try a Song of the Elves?


    You have elven blood? Whats the ratio?


    60%! The owner looked around before lowering his voice. Hiss, other than the Elf Song, I also have Wolfs Kiss for sale.


    Lawrences fish eyes bulged wide. I didnt hear the Church was attacked!


    A Moon Priest happened to be outside the city then, and ran into the main force of the attackers. May the Archon have mercy on that unlucky soulwant to try it? 10% ratio!


    One Elf Song, one Wolfs Kiss!


    You really know how to drink.


    Lawrence sat at his previous spot, quietly awaiting the start of the Blood Moon Tribunal. For some reason, after watching it once, he had suddenly grown fond of this show, when he couldnt even be bothered to nce at it back in prison.


    Perhaps it was because he had been kicked out of prison.


    Perhaps it was because he knew he would be trampled underfoot by [222] for life, while the other party wouldnt even notice his existence.


    Perhaps it was because he had epted his own ordinariness.


    During his schooling, internship, and ritual days in prison, Lawrence kept his fighting spirit zing, satisfying himself on willpower alone without needing entertainment for spiritual enrichment.


    But now he had revived his previously dismissed carnal desires, drinking every night at the bar, even enjoying the Blood Moon Tribunalthe reason being, he could no longer derive happiness from struggling.


    To Lawrence, studying, researching, cultivating, and exploring the virtual world had all be reluctantly-done work.


    Because he saw his own ceiling, and knew his efforts were futile.


    Facing the insurmountable wall, he only wanted to lie down and drift through life.


    Ironically, when he first joined the institute, Lawrence often looked down on those who cked, seeing them no different from corpses in a coffin, determined not to be one of them.


    Perhaps I was already dead that night I was tossed into Shattered Lake. Lawrence calmly reflected. Without ambition, all I have left is an unbeating heart.


    Suddenly, amotion erupted outside the bar. Someone dashed in yelling excitedly, Something happened at Shattered Lake Prison! Death row inmates escaped!


    For real? Howd they get out? What about the guards?


    The guards seem to have been locked up. The condemned took over todays transport ship and escaped when it arrived. The port only realized something was wrong when the ship never returned, and afteryers of reporting, discovered the prison incident!


    Shattered Lakes going to be a national disgrace this time. Is this the first ever death row escape?


    Wait, doesnt the prison have medics? Could they have also been


    Hahahaha, Imughing out loud! Come, a toast to the escapees, may they bring some fun to the Blood Mad Hunters!


    Cheers!


    Someone else shouted, A toast to the increased materials these past days! Weve gotten more in the past few days than thest few monthsbined!


    Cheers!


    To the foreign sorcerers


    Whoa whoa, we better not casually toast to that.


    Then a toast to the deceased!


    Cheers!


    Lawrence also happily raised his ss, downing the Song of the Elves in one go.


    Although it didnt concern him, Medic [222] was still at Shattered Lake Prison right now. For this jailbreak, the medical team bore undeniable responsibility, arguably even more than the guards  the guards were openly attacked, while the medics operated in the shadows like bats.


    Lawrence even felt lucky to have been kicked out early  as an esteemed sacred bloodline sorcerer, he couldnt have borne the shame of being controlled by death row inmates.


    So there wont be a Blood Moon Tribunal to watch tonight? Boring.


    Boss, how about starting a betting pool on the escapees? Guessing when theyll be caught, if theyll be killed while on the run, Ive got a friend in the Heresy Court who can send news right away!


    The snake boss mused, Let me think about it


    Just then, eight light screens suddenly materialized in the center of the bar!


    Everyone froze, looking to the boss, but he seemed unperturbed. I have it set to automatically open the screens for the 8pm Tribunal. But since the shows cancelled tonight-


    Cut it open with a de when the wounds are deep enough, to relieve yesterdays curse


    There was even opening music!?


    Under the baffled, astonished, expectant gazes, a prison guard appeared on the screens, holding the Register of Sinners which obscured his mouth, leaving only cold, indifferent eyes visible.


    Greetings everyone, Im your host for tonights Blood Moon Tribunal, Ashe Heath.


    Ashe Heath?


    Ashe Heath!


    No one could forget that name after just a few days, especially since many had been eagerly anticipating his return to the Tribunal stage!


    Since this Tribunal could end at any time, lets get right to it and introduce tonights sinners up for redemption.


    The scene switched to show theke outside the prison. Eight slender crimson pirs emerged from Shattered Lake, each with a stone seat atop holding a prisoner.


    This is Edmund Meunken, former Tax Bureau executive secretary.


    This is Bernard Laidor, former project head of the Government Affairs Department.


    This is Ernest Andrei, former congressman.


    When the camera focused on thest contestant, everyone watching the Tribunal in bars, institutes, churches, orphanages, and the Heresy Court jumped up in shock.


    This is ndor Fernand Snow, Ashe announced, incumbent mayor of Caimon City.


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 Chapter 130: Why So Serious

    Chapter 130: Why So Serious


    Caimon City, Heresy Court, Vice Captain Emma strode through the bright and morous hallway, and violently pushed open the door.


    Chief, give me the inspection order! Im going to take control of the radio station right now!


    Behind the ck rosewood carved long table were two floor-to-ceiling windows that allowed the glory of the blood moon to spill onto the red leather armchair and the curly-haired woman sitting in it, unhindered. Her uniform was a bit sloppy because several buttons were undone, and her beautiful silver hair was a mess like a birds nest. Her exquisite face was also ruined by the dark eye bags and clown-like dark circles.


    Hearing the door open, she turned off the light curtain: Is it off work already?


    What off work, the escaped prisoners havent even been caught yet! Emma came over and pped the table: I notified the radio station to interrupt the trial live broadcast, but they refused! Chief, hurry up and sign the inspection order for me, Im going to take my team to kill them!


    Just say those words here, dont ruin the reputation of the Heresy Court outside. The chief said lightly: A Gerard who gets a hundredint letters every month is enough for me to handle.


    Chief, the inspection order!


    To inspect the radio station, we need the cooperation of the Administrative Department. Have you contacted Vice Mayor Guro?


    Speaking of this, Emma was even more angry: I called the Administrative Department to initiate a call, only the mayors secretary answered. He said the vice mayor was in an emergency meeting with other departments and could not reply for the time being!


    Thats pretty normal. With escaped prisoners and all, they certainly need to mobilize various departments to make contingency ns


    He did it on purpose! He just wants to drag it out until Fernand Snow dies in the trial, so that he, the vice mayor, can move up, and remove the vice from his title!


    Dont think so badly of people. Under the glory of the blood moon, the bad guys are all in prison. The chief said faintly: The Heresy Court is under the jurisdiction of the Administrative Department. Without their orders, we cannot arbitrarily inspect the radio station of the same level.


    So we can only watch the trial continue?


    Why not?


    The chief scratched her head: Not only the Administrative Department, even the Research Institute and the Church didnt say anything. They are not in a hurry, so why are you in such a hurry?


    But


    Dont forget, the people who can really preside over the trial are not in prison, but in the city, outside, here. The chief spread her hands: Why do you have to be so serious?


    Stumped by the chiefs correct opinion, Emma was at a loss for words, and her big wolf tail also drooped down. She pouted dissatisfiedly and pounded the table: Oh, why are the priests so indifferent about this


    You know your night strength is great, my table cant stand you pounding it a few times. The chiefined:


    As for why, because this is not a big deal.


    This isnt a big deal?


    Emma, how old are you?


    I was born in 20s.


    Oh, so just in your forties. No wonder you make such a big fuss over small things.


    What does age have to do with it?


    When you get older, youll know that things you now think are very serious, when ced on the scale of centuries or millennia, are just trivial interludes not worth mentioning. The chief gestured at her dark eye circles: Byparison, abiding by the rules is more important.


    The moon gives life, the blood saints guard death  that is our creed. Other than that, we cannot interfere. Secr affairs are for the secr world to manage.


    The chief was so reasonable that Emma could only angrily clench her fists, her fluffy tail standing upright: Yes!


    Go back to work, remember to close the door. And can you retract your tail a bit, its very troublesome to clean the fallen fur on the carpet.


    Emma shook her head repeatedly: No, permanently fixing some of the lunar traits is a symbol of my strength! And everyone really likes it!


    The chief sighed with her hands over her face: The Church and the Research Institute really just shoved all the troublemakers over Do they think this is a daycare for adults?


    When Emma closed the office door, she suddenly heardughtering from inside.


    Ha, this Ashe is quite interesting, I have to let Gerard leave him alive.


    Damn it!


    The chief just wanted to watch this farce y out, thats why she refused to sign the inspection order no matter what, and Emma almost got fooled by her!


    Emma instinctively wanted to rush in and reason with her, but she suddenly remembered what the old priest had told her about the blood saints joke.


    When the Blood Saints be interested, the only way to stop them is to nail them to the coffin  elerated bat blood flow leads to reduced intelligence.


    So Emma gave up and went back to her department with suppressed anger. She sat down and opened the light curtain  shell just watch what tricks Ashe can pull off!


    Cough, cough cough!


    On the crimson pir tform in Broken Lake, Fernand Snow suddenly coughed violently twice, spitting out two mouths of foul smelling ck blood. His abdomen felt sour and itchy, his clothes were stickily clinging to his body, which was very ufortable. Coupled with the dizziness after just waking up, it made him feel like he was back in his teenage years.


    Born in the Bonehead orphanage, he had to squeeze time out of fighting every day to study. It was an orphanage located in the lower city district of Caimon City, and most of the children were beastmen and cannibals  the mean-looking director did not like these two blue-green races, he simply took them in because the foster subsidies for these two races were high.


    A high-end orphanage like Emerald Garden would not only receive no funding from the Administrative Department, but the orphanage would even have to pay arge sum of money to select babies from the hospital.


    This was because for all the adults who came out of the orphanage, the first 15 years of their ie would have 10% deducted as feedback to the orphanage. Emerald Garden Orphanage was clearly on the brightest and greatest path: do their best to nurture outstanding talents, and then use the feedback from these outstanding talents to strengthen the orphanage, continue to select high-quality newborns, and continue to nurture outstanding talents for society.


    It could be said that Emerald Garden and other double first-ss orphanages all took this positive cycle route. They were also role models for orphanages nationwide. But not all orphanages had such conditions. After all, there were only so many excellent newborns. Therefore, there was another model  fraudulently obtaining subsidies.


    The Bonehead Orphanage picked beastman and cannibal babies that no other orphanage wanted, but because they had to be raised to maintain species diversity, the Church would allocate arge amount of funds as a subsidy.


    The director would swallow all these funds whole, and dont care how the babies live. Anyway beastmen and cannibals were easy to raise. He didnt care about their feedback after they turned 18 and were kicked out.


    Among the newborns, beastmen and cannibals were the lowest grade. Not only were they difficult to educate with low average IQ, disobedient, and ugly looking pared to the standard races), their living habits were also dirty.


    Therefore, the Bonehead Orphanage was no different from the wilderness. Everyone pooped and lived freely. When it was meal time, people would push in several food buckets, and everyone would rush up to fight for them, eventually developing into racial fights. After getting injured all over, they would lie down and sleep, and the day would pass.


    The outside world would have no opinion on this. The orphanage called it native ecological parenting, and would even receive praise from all walks of life.


    Many schrs believed that this was releasing the nature of beastmen and cannibals, respecting the blue and green skins, quality education ording to aptitude. And then they would turn around and denounce orphanages like Emerald Garden for over-emphasizing academic performance, destroying childrens nature, and depriving children of their childhood


    Fernand Snow, born in this civilized country, grew up in this native ecological environment.


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 Chapter 131: Legal illegal behavior

    Chapter 131: Legal illegal behavior


    Fernand Snow could no longer recall why he harbored ambitions unusual for an Ogre.


    Was it because he saw the impably dressed council members visiting the Skull Stick Foster Home, patting the heads of the beastmen children with a smile, while their eyes barely concealed their contempt?


    Or was it because he longed for the opulent houses and the elegant, upper-ss lifestyle depicted in the dramas?


    Or perhaps it was because he saw the confident human mayor on the screen, raising his right fist, uttering lies that even beastmen children wouldnt believe: To make every race even greater!


    Regardless, Fernand Snow began a life markedly different from other Ogres: after fighting for food, he would sneak into a corner, turn on the screen, and watch todays remedial video from the Jade Garden.


    Although each child had a full set of general educational materials from the beginning theoretically making self-study enough to grasp all knowledge points, if one wanted to get into middle school, college or even graduate school, a deep understanding of the subjects was required, which was far beyond the scope of the textbooks.


    Well-funded foster homes would naturally hire teachers to tutor their charges, but the Skull Stick didnt have this luxury. The average educational level of the blue-skinned and green-skinned individuals who left the Skull Stick was merely prenatal.


    But perhaps for the sake of increasing their reputation or setting an example, the educational videos from the top-tier foster homes would be uploaded to the Canopy. Children without such good educational conditions could download these videos for self-study. After all, everyone had a Chip, so there was no barrier to downloading.


    That was a memory Fernand Snow would never forget: after a fight, he sat in a cold, foul-smelling corner, bruised and battered. One side of his world was filled with beastmen and Ogres fighting fiercely in the sand, an Ogre eating and defecating at the same time not far away, and a beastman adding his own toenail clippings to a sandwich.


    On the other side, he saw a tidy ssroom on the screen, a knowledgeable and elegant teacher, and students full ofughter and banter.


    Many years had passed, but Fernand Snow could still recall the surging emotions of his youth. A fire once again ignited in his chest, a fire that seared his soul, a fire named


    Shame!


    Now that the audience is familiar with these eight redeemed individuals, there must be a question in everyones mind. That is, although Mayor Fernand Snow has temporarily stepped down, he is not a criminal. So why is he also participating in this trial?


    Hearing these words, Fernand Snow turned to see a prison guard standing at the edge of the observation deck  the man who had brought him into the Shattered Lake.


    He remembered that after signing the Register of Sinners, his strength was bounded, and then he was attacked by the prison guard and fell unconscious.


    Looking closer, he realized that the guard was not addressing them directly, but speaking to the camera.


    Prisonlive broadcastBlood Moon


    The Ogre narrowed his eyes and turned to the human beside him: Director Laidor, who is he?


    Even though Laidor himself was overthrown by Fernand Snow, when asked so naturally, the former project director instinctively answered: He is Ashe Heath.


    After a pause, he added, A death row inmate who should be in prison.


    Fernand Snow immediately understood everything. He looked towards Ashe, only to find Ashe was also looking at him. Ashe held the Register of Sinners that controlled the fate of all prisoners, covering his face and revealing only a pair of indifferent eyes.


    The reason why Mayor Fernand Snow is here is because a friend of mine said that he is a bad person, who has exploited legal loopholes to evade scrutiny multiple times.


    Fernand Snow sneered dismissively, not bothering to respond.


    Ashe continued, Of course, I have a friend is hardly a testimony. In fact, ording to the investigative files of the Heresy Courts Memory Master, although there are many unexinable doubts and memory losses, but strictly speaking, Mayor Fernand Snow has notmitted any illegal actions.


    Its well known that the Blood Moon Tribunal is not really ruled by the mayor, the Heresy Court, or a small host like me, but by the sharp-eyed citizens in front of the screen. Your redemption tickets are the key to guiding this trial.


    Of course, I dont expect you to follow the encouragement of a convicted criminal like me, to let thiswless mayor meet with the Blood Moon Supreme early.


    And this, is exactly what makes the Blood Moon Tribunal I nned this time interesting.


    Unlike Mayor Fernand Snow, the other seven former councilors, officials, and gang members are all scum with proven crimes. If the radio station is reluctant to cut off the signal, then the citizens can click on the avatar to get the criminal information of these seven losers.


    In theory, the redeemed in this trial will be chosen only from among you seven. But now, I give you a chance.


    Ashe pointed at the ogre, You can state Mayor Fernands illegal actions to give him tickets. In this way, you naturally escape a disaster. ording to my understanding of the citizens and my personal experience, the more detailed and important your report, the lower your ticket count.


    The crowd changed color slightly, and the former beastman secretary Meunken shouted, I report, Fernand Snow hired a killerAh!!!


    Meunken suddenly screamed horribly. The red stone seat he was sitting on was rising smoke, as if it was heating up rapidly, causing the skin of Meunken and the stone seat to be scorched!


    Ah, I forgot to say, in this trial, the executioners enhancement is the Mouth of Lies. Ashes voice had no apology other than schadenfreude, Once you lie, frame up, fabricate, say things that even you cant confirm, the executioners mouth will keep heating, heating, until you be delicious cooked food. Im really grateful for the technical support provided by the Heresy Court for this trial.


    Mouth of Lies!?


    Everyones face changed dramatically, but they found themselves unable to get off their stone seats, as if they were stuck on them. Not only that, they were unable to output arcane energy, or attack others this private Blood Moon Tribunal was too outrageous, it only gave them speech permission, other permissions were still forbidden!


    Yes, the eight stone pirs you are sitting on are the bodies of the executioners. Congrattions, not many people in the world can sit on the executioners.


    Ill trade with you! Everyone cursed in their hearts, ring at Ashe.


    Hold on.


    Wearing silver-rimmed sses, like a middle-aged schr, Andrei raised his hand and asked, First, it is known that Fernand Snow has notmitted any crimes. Second, we cannot say things we cannot confirm. On this premise, we cannot state Fernand Snows illegal actions.


    Ashe looked at Andrei.


    Exactly, youre right, so Im not really asking you to state illegal facts, but expecting you to state Fernand Snows legal illegal actions.


    Legal illegal actions?


    Everyone present was a politician or official who had struggled through hundreds of battles and finally climbed to the top of Caimon City. When Ashe said this, they immediately understood his underlying meaning, and their faces became extremely ugly, even Fernand Snow was no exception!


    Ah ha.


    In the directors office of the Heresy Court, the director opened a file, which was Ashe Heaths resume.


    Strange, there are no government officials among the victims of the Four Pirs Religion, and he has never been involved in rted work Could someone have leaked it to him? Or did he simply observe it himself?


    From this perspective, his actions are not simply because of a grudge against Fernand Snow or provoking the Heresy Court, but rather he aims to touch the deep-seated social norms.


    This is a big trouble that could give both the institute and the church a headache


    But


    The director propped up his face, the corners of his mouth slightly raised to reveal a smile, and anticipation flickered in the blood-red eyes encircled by dark circles.


    Its been over a hundred years since Ive encountered any trouble.

 Chapter 132: The Rules of the Power Game

    Chapter 132: The Rules of the Power Game


    Legal illegal behavior?


    The people in the Barista of the Institute looked puzzled. Someone asked, Arent those two antonyms? A coin thats both heads and tails? A person whos both male and female?


    Are you discriminating against me! A person of androgynous appearance mmed the table and stood up, Are you mocking intersex individuals in public!? Intersexuality is the new mainstream culture, able to enjoy the benefits of both genders. This is clearly the most perfect state, how are there still stubbornly outdated individuals like you in this day and age


    Im sorry, I misspoke. I sincerely apologize for causing you any harm. The former quickly apologized.


    Lorens scratched the scales on his face, turning his head to ask Boss Snake, Boss Snake, do you know what this legal illegal behavior hes talking about is?


    Sss I can guess.


    Oh? Do tell?


    At this moment, Boss Snake smiled, suddenly asking,  Sss, Lorens, have you gotten used to life at the Institute? Hows theb?


    Very good, Lorens casually responded, The research is also progressing smoothly,tely weve had more than enough materials. The more materials we have, the faster Necromancy progresses. Wait, Boss Snake, dont change the subject. What is legal illegal behavior?


    Sss Look at the screen, someones about to speak.


    Lorens looked at the screen, a strange feeling stirring within him.


    He felt that Boss Snake was unwilling to continue the conversation with him.


    And this unwillingness, he was very familiar with.


    Like when he passed the high school entrance exam, and his human ssmates asked him why he worked part-time after school instead of going back to the Foster Home to study or y. At that time, Lorens did not want to answer that question, because he knew that humans could not understand his predicament.


    Different backgrounds, different environments, and no amount of exnation would do any good.


    But here, everyone could understand each other, because they all had abandoned their lower-race identities to be something more noble


    Wait, was Boss Snake of the sacred bloodline?


    He had always squinted, and it seemed had never seen his blood eyes


    At this moment, the voice that came from the screen interrupted Lorens thoughts.


    City Public Examination in 1659, Xng District Market Supervision Bureau Operator Recruitment.


    The speaker was still Edmund Menken. He endured the burning pain on his skin and gritted his teeth to say, Fernand Snow wanted his ssmate to get this position, but his ssmates abilities were not sufficient to pass the examination for such a popr post. So, he devised a method.


    First, he found a schr who was fully qualified and even exceeded the standards in all aspects, instructed the schr to take the Operator examination, and get the position. Meanwhile, the ssmate also took the test, but naturally failed.


    After working for a month, the schr voluntarily resigned.


    So, Fernand Snows ssmate just like that entered the Supervision Bureau.


    Menken continued, Of course, this was Fernand Snows approach when he was still a councilor. Once he became the secretary to the mayor, it was no longer necessary to go through such trouble. He would determine the job requirements ording to his own candidates. For example, if his candidate was a human, male, 30 years old, with a series of restrictionsthe position would naturally fall into their hands, and the procedure waspletely legal andpliant.


    While the Government Affairs Hall is a must-pass for entry, the specific screening requirements are held by each department. As long as you can form a political alliance with the heads of each department, you can easily mobilize a vast amount of energy. He looked at the ogre, Half of the members of the Forest Gallery entered the Government Affairs Hall system in this way. Many Operators sumbed to Fernand Snows threats or incentives, bing Fernand Snows aplices.


    Meunken pondered for a moment, then added, Oh, some might not know. The Forest Gallery is a gallery opened by Fernand Snow, filled with what he considers his masterpieces. Members of their faction typically choose to gather in the gallery, hence the Fenan Xue Faction is also known as the Forest Gallery.


    Fernand Snow coldly responded, Isnt it the same with your Eternal Wine Club, upying an eighth of the positions in the Government Affairs Hall?


    An eighth might not sound like much, but if distributed across various departments, especially with a few department heads included, it bes a significant intelligencework and political force. Andrei, considered a strong contender for the mayorship, was a prime example of the Eternal Wine Clubs ability to rival the Forest Gallery.


    Thud!


    With a muffled sound, the stone pir beneath Fernand Snow suddenly began to twist. The moonlight illuminating the pir danced like a snake, transforming into ferocious chains that coiled upward towards Fernand Snow!


    Fernand Snow did not need to open a screen to know that this anomaly was because the citizens had cast their votes for him.


    The Ogres mind was racing, but he maintained calm on his face, You make it sound as if I initiated this tradition. Long ago, this has already be an unspoken, unbreakable rule everyone has adhered to.


    Not joining a faction means you cant obtain a good starter job. If you want a promotion, you not only need a rmendation from the department head but also the favor of the upper-level leaders. The push from below, pull from above is the only path upward. If you do not join a faction, even if you happen to be a government official, all that awaits you is a lifetime of basic assignments.


    All the council members and politicians here are both beneficiaries of the factions and aplices in maintaining their existence. Besides the Eternal Wine Club and the Forest Gallery, the Government Affairs Hall has many smaller factions, like spider webs. If you want to climb up, you must climb the web. This is the rule of the power game.


    All of this is nothing more than the verymon, everyday whims of power.


    In a bar in a lower district, a middle-aged beastman patron suddenly covered his face and sobbed uncontrobly. His tears and snot dripped into his drink, he cried so ugly.


    He remembered the public examination thirteen years ago. He had ranked second in the interviews, while the first ce was taken by an elf schr who outshone him in every aspect.


    In a subordinate apartment of the Caimon City Food and Nutrition Bureau, a man in his forties sank into a soft chair with a bucket of chips. He watched the screen, adjusted his sses, reminisced about his ambitious days post-college, followed by more than two decades of stagnation and silence, feeling a bit gloomy.

 Chapter 133: Mutual Exposures

    Chapter 133: Mutual Exposures


    Chains wrapped around the redeemed like venomous snakes, causing their faces to turn extremely pale. Fernand Snows words had evenly distributed the hatred amongst them all.


    At this point, everyonepletely understood Ashes intentionsthis damn jailbreaker wanted them to reveal those unknown government secrets, to expose those small caprices of power in front of the entire city, and even drag those unspeakable beings down with them!


    Why hasnt the Heresy Court arrived yet! Why hasnt the broadcast been cut off! What on earth are the church and the institute thinking!?


    They all nced at each other, suddenly reaching a consensusdont say another word. Continuing would only provoke the anger of the citizens. They decided to remain silent and stall for time until the Heresy Court could interrupt the broadcast!


    However, not everyone was willing to abide by this silent agreement. For example, the former leader of the violent gang Gluttonous Snake, Beastman Kuiwen, was about to break.


    Compared to those evil officials, whose wickedness was not so apparent and who maintained a distance from the popce, Kuiwen was undoubtedly the most grounded and most easily essible brute.


    Without any external interference, Kuiwen would undoubtedly be the popr candidate for this Blood Moon Tribunal. And the greatest advantage of a pariah is that he wont miss any opportunity to drag others down with him.


    Three years ago, during the Dragons Den Apartment Case, Fernand Snow also contributed a lot! The beastman boomed, Everyone hasnt forgotten, right? Dragons Den Apartment bought houses from the owners at high prices and rented them out to tenants at low prices, quickly growing not only in Caimon City but also dominating the rental market in cities like Feimeng and Outer Sea.


    But Dragons Den Apartment paid the owners monthly while collecting one or two years worth of rent from the tenants, thereby absorbing arge amount of capital. Everyone knew this was a ticking time bomb, but they all turned a blind eye and even added fuel to the fire! Fernand Snow at that time had the Government Affairs Hall issue the Financial Innovation Guidance, allowingmercial banks to operate new businesses like Rent Loans, making renters shoulder debts to fill the funding gap for Dragons Den Apartment! In this matter, Fernand Snow is undeniably responsible, although he technically did nothing wrong.


    Why am I so clear about this? Because I also own amercial bank and took the opportunity to issue arge number of small loans to premium customers like students and new workers.


    And as far as I know, a member of the Forest Gallery also operates amercial bank!


    Hearing the sound of chains moving, the Ogre breathed a deep sigh of relief.


    He knew that everything would proceed as nned by the indifferent Observer beside him. More tragically, he had to elerate this process until the rage of the people burned everyone to ashes.


    Andrei. Fernand Snow said, Thanks to your efforts, Moon Sugar was legalized in Caimon City in 1662. The sugar producers transitioned from underground operations to formal businesses, and thergest sugarpany, Eternal Life, founded the Eternal Wine Club the following year. Although you were arrested, the Eternal Life Company is still producing Moon Sugar at this very moment, and countless people are falling into illusions due to Moon Sugar every second.


    Just these words alone caused Andreis pir to erupt into chaos, with countless shackles swirling around this middle-aged schr like tentacles.


    His face turned gloomy, knowing he had stirred public anger.


    As an addictive drug, Moon Sugar is a prohibited substance in most parts of the Blood Moon Realm, except in a few cities like Caimon where it is legal.


    Although there are many sugar people who like to eat sugar, there are even more who dont like Moon Sugar. Almost every citizen has been harassed by sugar people, whether on the streets, in bathrooms, in university ssrooms, or in cinemas. The sharp increase in serious crimes caused by sugar people has made the citizens extremely disgusted.


    Andrei didnt think he was in the wrong. After all, thanks to the Human Rights Freedom Act, no one could prevent an adult of any race from consuming Moon Sugar. Crimes stemming from sugar consumption were a separate issue altogether.


    However, severe crimes fell under the jurisdiction of the Heresy Court, not the councils. Each had its own performance assessment criteria, and Andrei and his team didnt need to consider the crime spike resulting from the legalization of Moon Sugar.


    Because everyone had the right to consume sugar, bans on Moon Sugar were repeatedly ineffective.


    If it couldnt be banned, it might as well be turned into a formal industry. At least taxes could be collected, and without violent gangs skimming off the top, sugar consumers could enjoy lower prices. A world where nobody gets hurt was born  except for the ordinary citizens.


    But what if there was a strong prohibition on Moon Sugar, arresting those who consumed it? The Human Rights Association would have something to say about that, and the Race Rights Association wouldnt sit by idly. After all, Goblins, beastmen, and Ogres had a natural resistance to drugs and toxins. They benefited more than they lost from consuming Moon Sugar, and they didnt have withdrawal symptoms when the sugar was scarce. Regr sugar intake could even improve focus and work efficiency.


    Especially for Ogres, Moon Sugar was almost more important than paint for their oil painting creations.


    The proposal for the legalization of Moon Sugar was approved not just because of Andreis personal bias, but because it was a consensus reached by the council based on local conditions in Caimon City, benefiting all parties.


    Ordinary people couldntin about it, because they elected the council members themselves.


    This was elite politics.


    However, public resentment towards the Moon Sugar Act was growing daily. At any other time, it would simply fester, but during the Blood Moon Tribunal, resentment could bite.


    Typical of you, Fernand Snow, Andrei said, now the public is venting their anger on me.


    Andrei, your literacy is poor. Venting implies directing anger at unrted parties. You, however, are the main proponent of the legalization of Moon Sugar. This isnt venting, its revenge, the Ogre sneered.


    Andrei sighed, Does it have to be this way?


    Fernand Snow calmly said, If youre willing to sacrifice yourself to protect everyone, then this game will end with you.


    Andrei looked around, seeing the hopeful eyes of his subordinates. He turned to look at Ashe, who was watching the drama from the edge of the rooftop, sadness welling up in his eyes.


    We, a group of self-proimed geniuses, are being toyed with by a mere convict he said with a bitter smile, such an ugly sight.


    Let me put an end to this.


    The Ogre looked surprised, while others breathed a sigh of relief, their faces showing the joy of a narrow escape.


    ndor Fernand Snow!


    Just then, Andrei roared.


    If anyone here deserves to die, its you  during the Event 422, you let the innocent citizens of Caimon City suffer the attacks of Outer Domain Sorcerers!


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 Chapter 134: Allow me to make a few sophistries

    Chapter 134: Allow me to make a few sophistries


    Snickering.


    Facing Andreis usation, Fernand Snow actuallyughed.


    Heughed loudly and wildly, as if he didnt care about the audience watching the live broadcast.


    The Ogre nearlyughed to tears. Wiping away the smile-induced tears at the corner of his eyes, he said, Andrei, your are quite unbing. In the pursuit of survival, you have lost yourposure. You are not worthy to be my adversary.


    Yes, exploring the virtual chaotic flow was approved by me. Both emotionally and rationally, I should bear the main responsibility, hence why I am here for investigation. But if you think you can bring me down in front of the citizens of the entire city with just this, you are too naive.


    How can an exploration operation that involves the Heresy Court, war zone, and even the prison be a minor matter that I can decide with a single word? Its said that big meetings discuss minor matters, and minor meetings discuss major matters. Before the operation, the leaders of all parties held three meetings. Andrei, you are a representative of the council, you havent forgotten this, have you?


    It was only after a vote among all parties that this operation was fully implemented. Event 422 was a disaster, but it was also a man-made cmity resulting from our collective misjudgment. I am not shirking my responsibilities, but Andrei, the responsibility on your shoulders is no less than mine.


    Andrei nodded, Indeed, if you have to say it, this is just a war initiated by the rulers for their own interests, its a pity that we are the losers this time. If we had found the correct virtual gateway first, then Fernand Snow, you would not only be free from usations, but you could also gain the support of all parties and be reelected as mayor with a 100% vote.


    At most, I can use you of promoting this operation for your political achievements. Besides, youve already apologized, and the citizens cant say much more.


    Andrei nced at the Ogres stone pir, which was almost unchanged. This meant that the citizens did not deepen their resentment towards Fernand Snow because of his usations.


    This was beyond his expectation. After all, although Event 422 caused tens of thousands of casualties, what does it have to do with the living?


    Its not them who died.


    Maybe among the victims were their friends or even lovers, but so what?


    Its not them who died.


    If they suffered losses due to the attack, the Government Affairs Hall was willing topensate. As for the casualties and building copses caused by the attack, it was all benefits to the living  the deads positions would be vacant, the copsed buildings meant new construction work, rents would fall due to fewer tenants, and the streets would be less crowded.


    Caimon City was a bit too crowded to begin with, but now that the attackers hade, killed a bunch, and scared off a bunch, the remaining people naturally had more city resources. At this moment, who knows how many people are thanking the attackers for their ughter, which allowed them to seize a lot of benefits.


    Even Fernand Snow, the main person responsible, didnt attract much hatred. The resentment he attracted on this matter was even less than that of Dragons Den Apartment and the control of the public examination.


    After all, the ones who truly hated him are already dead, and among the survivors, quite a few were cheated out of their money by Dragons Den Apartment or had their positions taken away in the public exam.


    In the Blood Moon Realm, the living do not empathize with the dead.


    To bring down Fernand Snow with Event 422 is a pipe dream. Andrei is not so naive. He just needs this topic as a lead-in.


    Correct, if we only discuss the cause of the event, every decision-maker is at fault. It is the responsibility of all the rulers, Andrei said, But the process of the event, that was your one-man show stage, my dear Mayor.


    The Ogre narrowed his eyes, coldly looking at this political adversary.


    Andrei said, Twenty minutes after the arrival of the Outer Domain Sorcerer, the Church informed you of this news. But for the first three hours, you imed that nothing was happening, until multiple attacks urred on the outskirts of the city. Only then did you tell the citizens not to go out, deploy the Heresy Court to meet the enemy, and gather adventurers from the war zone


    The announcement to the citizens before the arrival of the Outer Domain Sorcerer would only create panic! The Ogre said unequivocally, If the citizens gather and flee out of fear, it would provide an excellent opportunity for the Outer Domain Sorcerer to attack. The casualties at that time would definitely be greater than they are now!


    Yes, youre right, Andrei said, If the onlybat forces around Caimon City are indeed the Heresy Court and the war zone, your decisions were correct.


    At this moment, everyone else, including Fernand Snow, looked shocked!


    Meunken even loudly rebuked, Andrei, do you know what youre saying!? Do you think you can survive just by telling everything?


    Even if I dont speak, Im sure Im going to die anyway, Andrei said word by word, Ive never thought about surviving. I just hope that before I die, I can have a clear conscience.


    Fernand Snow sneered, Indeed, Andrei from a high-level Foster Home would have such a luxurious and high-ss thought. How funny it is. You didnt have a conscience before, but now youre suddenly seeing the light after being put in jail?


    Andrei shook his head, Fernand Snow, sometimes I wonder, do I really deserve to be in your position? Do I truly have the ability to control the fate of so many people? Can I really watch so many lives die before my eyes, like you, and remain indifferent?


    He looked at the camera, as if he was speaking to the hundreds of thousands of citizens in Caimon City.


    In the Caimon region, the most powerful armed forces are not the Heresy Court or the war zone, but the research institutions and the Church! He said, Every member of the sacred bloodline in the research institutions, and every Moonshadow in the Church, are Sorcerers, and most of them are Two-wing Sorcerers!


    Some people may have heard that the schrs in the research institutions are not good at fighting, and that the priests in the church only know how to pray, but these are all lies tailored to cater to themon peoples need to belittle the strong, a cocoon of information woven to satisfy your inner jealousy.


    After all, you are not Sorcerers, nor are you Blood Saint Moonshadows. So the Blood Saint Moonshadows must have ridiculous shorings, such as fear of sunlight, fear of fire, so you can feel superior, so you can convince yourself that there is no need to be jealous, so you can live on.


    Any Sorcerer is not a weakling, and definitely not incapable of fighting!


    If the research institutions and the Church were to take action, although they might not be able to quickly suppress the Outer Domain Sorcerer, they would definitely be able to control the situation within a smaller range, reducing the number of casualties to thousands or hundreds!


    But they dont want to get involved, because it has nothing to do with them, the Outer Domain Sorcerer wont attack their areas. Whats more important, the sacred bloodline craves corpses, and the Moonshadow appreciates death. This idental massacre actually aligns with their interests.


    The only one who can change the situation is you, ndor Fernand Snow, Andrei said word by word, As the mayor, you have the authority tomand the Church and the research institutions. If youre willing, you can summon the Blood Saints and the Moonshadows,pletely reversing the situation of the Outer Domain Sorcerers rampage.


    The Ogres face was calm, as if he didnt care about Andreis usation at all.


    But you didnt. Because you dare not damage the interests of the two races, because you still need the support of both races. Not only that, but you also knew that the attackers came through the level 2 virtual gateway, and this attack wouldst at most three days. The Outer Domain Sorcerer would inevitably retreat on their own. Therefore, you didnt hesitate to sacrifice the interests of the citizens, using the bodies of the people as gifts to please the Blood and Moon Race.


    Andrei had a faint hint of derision on his face. No one told you to do this, nor did anyone warn you not to. You made the choice yourself. You used the lives of thousands to demonstrate your humility to the Blood and Moon Race.


    The ogre nced at the squirming chains on his body and sneered, Your words dont seem to have much impact. Everyone understands my predicament. Though it is not a glorious deed, pleasing the Blood Moon is not shameful.


    Is that so? Andrei chuckled, But what if I say that the incident at the Dragons Den Apartment was also a result of your deliberate indulgence to please the research institutes?


    Everyone knew that Dragons Den Apartment amassed a lot of money through financial fraud, and the chairman of Dragons Den has already absconded. But very few know where that money went  before absconding, the chairman went to the four major research institutes to undergo a life-extension surgery that would add 200 years to his life. Just this surgery alone consumed a third of the liquid assets of Dragons Den Apartment.


    Not only that, other board members of Dragons Den Apartment also went to the research institutes one after another for life-extension surgeries, body repair surgeries, and so on. In the end, most of the cash assets of Dragons Den Apartment ended up in the various research institutes. Then the event broke out, all the directors disappeared, and tens of millions of people were burdened with debt.


    Neither your Forest Gallery nor my Everlife Elixir gained more than a minor profit in this matter. The real devourer of the wealth of tens of millions of people was the research institutes.


    And thats just one of the more noticeable achievements of your political career. If we really delve into it, we wouldnt finish in half an hour. But to sum it up, it boils down to one principle


    Exploit the public, and tter the Blood Moon.


    Andrei looked at the Blood Moon in the night sky, the crows feet at the corners of his eyes revealing his fatigue.


    Thats why your approval ratings have dropped while youve remained in power for eight years. Your existence serves a purpose  the research institutes and the church need people like you as public puppets. Once youve attracted enough public anger, they will send you to Shattered Lake Prison to satisfy the publics thirst for justice.


    Even if Event 422 hadnt urred, you, Fernand Snow, would have only served as mayor for a few more years before facing the Blood Moon Tribunal. Because youre a sinner who sold the publics interest to secure the position of mayor.


    The smile hadpletely disappeared from the ogres face.


    The stone pir beneath him seemed to melt, and hundreds of writhing chains wound around him like hands, seemingly ready to pull him into the dark red Shattered Lake.


    But if that were all, youd just be an ordinary mayor, no different from your predecessor or the one before him. Every mayor is a future sinner, or rather, only sinners have a chance of bing mayor.


    Andrei said, Fernand Snow, the reason Ive beenpeting with you for the position of mayor is because youve tried to elevate the act of selling out the publics interest into a higher form of art  youve teamed up with the advocacy groups of the four major races, elves, beastmen, ogres, and goblins, to promote the development of professional fighting leagues.


    Of course, your reasoning is very righteous, absorbing the unemployed, reducing crime rates, nurturing sorcerer seeds, managing the tertiary industry Its impable, and would even make someone seeing your proposal for the first time wonder why no one thought of such a great idea before.


    Thats because previous rulers werent as ruthless and despicable as you!


    Speaking to this, Andreis eyes were bloodshot, the wrinkles on his face gathered into a bunch, too angry to even manage his expression, Fernand Snow, cant you foresee what will happen after thebat league appears!? Arge number of young people will flood into this get-rich-quick industry, gambling will flourish, body modification will be a new trend, the ring will be painted with a thickyer of flesh and blood, and there might even be Foster Homes specifically nurturing fighting machines forbat!


    Violence, death, corpses, these will be the only melody of this city! Fernand Snow, its not that you cant foresee this future, you are just clever enough to foresee everything, thats why you are promoting this n!


    The Blood Moon Supreme kept the Blood Saint Moonshadow in the research institute and the church, all in order to prevent them from causing ughter, to suppress their torment of the people, and to buy breathing space for all races! But you, Fernand Snow, for your own desires, you are willing to put all the people on the altar, standardize, formalize, and streamline ughter and death, just to please your master!


    You have united all the high-ranking individuals of all races, just to establish arge and shameless ruling group, the people are your best merchandise, the Blood Moon is your worshipped customer!


    But dont forget, Fernand Snow, you are still an Ogre, without crimson pupils, let alone a fluffy tail! No matter how much you tter, in their eyes, you are just food!


    Andreis abusive words echoed over the shatteredke, the rest of the people were as quiet as cicadas in cold weather, shrinking themselves in their seats, as if praying that the Blood Saint Moonshadow watching the live broadcast would not notice them.


    For a moment, the live broadcast was so quiet that only the sound of sliding chains could be heard.


    At this time, Fernand Snow suddenly nced at Ashe, showing a strange smile.


    Are you done? The Ogre looked around: Well then, please allow me to make a few sophistries.


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 Chapter 135: The Sheepdog and the Sheep Pen

    Chapter 135: The Sheepdog and the Sheep Pen


    In the bar of the research institute, Andreis roar still echoed.


    The expressions of the patrons were subtly affected, their hands slightly shaking the sses of wine they held. Behind the counter, Boss Snake was cleaning the sses as usual, seemingly paying no attention to the ranting session within the Blood Moon Tribunal.


    What an outrageous usation, murmured a human of the sacred bloodline, Its one thing to ridicule the church, those who only know how to chase their own tails, but we in the research institute have always been quietly conducting our research. We dont involve ourselves in politics or influence public opinion Every piece of technology in society today, isnt it the result of our institutes work? From the machines that manufacture screws to the source coders that write Canopy applications, arent these the products of our researchers years, even decades, of hard work?


    Weve never harmed anyone, always diligently contributing to the development of the Blood Moon Realm. Because our lifespan is more than three times that of ordinary races, our working hours and contributions are also more than three times greater And now theyre ming us for the mistakes of the rulers!?


    Do they think they can bully us because we dont like to talk!?


    Exactly! The others began to chime in indignantly, one of them said, There are only two representatives of the sacred bloodline in the current council, their numbers are nothingpared to other races. Were insignificant, just like a token presence, thats why they think they can push us around!


    Its time to increase the number of sacred bloodline seats in the council!


    Andrei forms his own faction, takes advantage of his position for personal gain, and he has the gall to criticize us?


    These politicians really cant tell right from wrong, theyre the epitome of shamelessness!


    But Fernand Snows proposal for the fighting league seems pretty good.


    There was a slight pause in the bar, the red glow in everyones blood pupils growing brighter.


    Indeed, its a very good spectator sport.


    Itd be best if its unrestricted fighting, allowing mechanical modifications, biological imnts, and other enhancements, otherwise it wouldnt be interesting.


    We could also develop group fights, where multiple people fight on the same stage until only one is left standing.


    There could also be exotic fights, where creatures from the Abyss are brought in from the war zone, and we can see if ordinary people can fight them.


    There has to be a Sorcerers league too, right? Two-winged ones may not be allowed, but two one-winged Sorcerers fighting to the death shouldnt be a problem!


    Besides the prize money, the institute is willing to provide free treatment to all participants. As long as they dont die, we can guarantee they will recover on the spot, so they wont have to worry about the aftermath! Im willing to volunteer to be a Medic for the league!


    Ha, I think you just want to perform the Blood Embrace ceremony again! Look at your age, youve long lost your bloodline potential. Even if they do need Medics for the league, theyll definitely prioritize the new blood.


    Watching everyone excitedly discuss the details of the fighting league, Lorens was paying attention to the voting situation of the Blood Moon Tribunal. He noticed that Fernand Snow, who had been neck and neck with Andrei, was now pulling ahead by andslide, which made him frown.


    This blue-scaled sacred bloodline member felt that Andreis argument made a bit of sense, but only a little. Most of it was just sophistry was it the institutes fault that the directors of Dragons Den Apartment sought life-extension surgery from them?


    Was the institute forcing Fernand Snow to mishandle Event 422?


    And even the yet-to-happen fighting league that Fernand Snow was nning to promote, was the institute also responsible for all the negative social impacts this industry would create?


    Why should they?


    Just because the sacred bloodline has longer lifespans and stronger abilities, does that mean they should be morally held hostage by these inferior races?


    Thats ridiculous!


    Lorens turned his head and asked, Boss Snake, do you think Andrei has a point?


    Sss Boss Snake put down his wine ss and said at a leisurely pace, Councilor Andrei makes a good point. From his standpoint, Fernand Snow is indeed trying to curry favor with the Blood Moon Dual Race.


    The Blue-scaled Blood Saint was somewhat surprised, Then


    But you also make a good point, Boss Snake continued, To the Blood Moon Dual Race, Andreis usations are pure deflection. Its as though youve done nothing, yet others are ming you for their problems.


    Lorens couldnt help butugh, If were not at fault, and theyre also right, then who is the problem?


    No one is wrong, the problem lies in


    Boss Snake turned toward the screen, Perhaps, the mayor will provide us with an answer.


    An Ogre, male, general education background, 24 years old this year, has a habit of eating Moon Sugar before going to sleep, often stays upte into the night, currently working in the oil painting industry, his favorite food is pickled L Fatty, masturbates twice a day, currently has a crush on another female Ogre, hoping to live with her, but after trying to please her for over a year, there has been no progression. He definitely saw the female Ogre enter a hotel with someone else three months ago, but it didnt extinguish his love me, instead, it made him think he also has a chance


    Initially, Andrei was slightly confused, but the more he listened, the more stunned he became. He interrupted Fernand Snow before he could finish, You wait, youve been through a memory review! How could you still have these memories! You havent deleted any memories?


    The Ogre chuckled, I dont trust the Memory Masters, I always erase my own memories. As soon as I pass the memory review, I immediately restore the memories that are crucial to me and the information about my son, is the most important memory to me.


    At this point, even the confused audience understood who Fernand Snow was referring to that was his sons information!


    Have you given up, Mayor? Kenmen said in a daze, The Bloodline Prohibition Law is a superiorw, second only to the supreme Blood Moon Constitution. Youve vited the Investigation of Procreation crime strictly prohibited by the Bloodline Prohibition Law, which can be sentenced to life imprisonment or even death Even if you survive the Blood Moon Tribunal, youll have to spend the rest of your life in the Shattered Lake!


    To everyone present, Fernand Snow wasmitting suicide!


    Among them, there were some who had investigated their own offspring, but they generally sought a Memory Master to delete the information as soon as they found out, as this was a deadly crime!


    It was more serious than trafficking several tons of Moon Sugar, and even more serious than continuous murder!


    Investigating ones offspring was a challenge to the dignity of the Blood Moon Supreme, and a sphemy against the foundation of the Blood Moon Realm!


    Yes, Ive vited the Bloodline Prohibition Law The Ogreughed, Kenmen, youve graduated from thew department for so many years, do you still remember the purpose of the Bloodline Prohibition Law? Exin it.


    Perhaps he was shocked by Fernand Snows words and actions, or perhaps he still held some obedience to the mayor, Kenmen answered without hesitation, The Bloodline Prohibition Law regtes the reproduction methods of various races, adjusts and protects a wide range of social rtionships, is conducive to optimizing resource allocation and improving per capita resource levels, improving the poption quality of each race, dismantling the backward unit of the family, breaking down ss barriers, abolishing inherited bad customs, allowing each newborn to fairly enjoy the resources of the whole society, and is the legal basis for racial equality, and equality for all.''


    Fernand Snow feigned enlightenment, Right, racial equality, and equality for all, who can exin to me the meaning of this statement?


    Everyone should not discriminate against others based on their appearance, race, gender, education, work, and other factors. Everyone has the right to uphold their personal dignity in the face of discriminatory behaviors andnguage, and can report to the Heresy Court. This is the content of the Racial Human Rights Act. Andrei said, Fernand Snow, what exactly do you want to say?


    The words you just said to me, I now return them to youAndrei, youre not unaware of my thoughts. Youve already foreseen them, yet you still dare not speak. The ogres calm eyes seemed to harbor a kind of hysterical madness: You only dare to criticize the Blood Moon Dual Race at most. Your tolerance is ultimately pitifully small.


    The others and the audience were all stunnedwasnt criticizing the Blood Moon Dual Race already daring enough!? Thats the true ruling ss of the Blood Moon Realm, the favored children of the Blood Moon Supreme!


    Do you want to criticize the Supreme too!?


    The redeemed ones cursed silently, wishing they could jump directly into the brokenke tomit suicideif Fernand Snow was allowed to continue, their end might not be as simple as death!


    At the Heresy Court, in the office of the director, the director looked at the pop-up call prompts on the screen and swept them all away impatiently.


    Blocking my live broadcast, really. A strong excitement emerged from her haggard face: Cant these old things appreciate such an interesting farce?


    Hehe, youve put me in this position, now do you realize your mistake? Confine in the church and the research institute!


    Fernand Snow, let me see your tolerance.


    The Bloodline Prohibition Law has severed all kinship rtions. We grow up in foster homes and are dered dead in hospitals. No matter how long or short our lives are, in this journey, we are unable to obtain a trustworthy bond. Fernand Snow said, It makes us be individual lonely entities.


    The Racial Human Rights Act supposedly aims to eliminate discrimination, but in fact it provokes discrimination, because it requires different races, genders, education levels, and even age groups to coexist harmoniously, forcingpletely different lives to respect each other. How can this not breed resentment? But because of the existence of thew, everyone can only hide their discrimination in their hearts, fermenting this resentment into a higher level, more natural, and more cruel prejudice. It makes us engage in endless infighting, unable to unite as a whole.


    Andrei, you just said that the Blood Moon Supreme locked the Blood Saint in the research institute and restricted Moonshadow in the church to protect us. The ogres voice echoed through the brokenke, I have a different view on this.


    He made the Blood Saint silent, made Moonshadow kind, made us lonely, and made everyone unable to unite. Do you know what this reminds me of? A well-behaved sheepdog and a sheepfold with a strong sense of self-management.


    The Blood Moon Realm is a farm meticulously built by the Blood Moon Supreme.


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 Chapter 136: The Beast Wearing the Coat of Civilization

    Chapter 136: The Beast Wearing the Coat of Civilization


    Eight years ago, in 1660, in Caimon City.


    On a sweltering summer day, Fernand Snow drove his sedan to the lower district, a ce he had sworn never to set foot in again.


    At this time, the old Mayor Pong was preparing to resign and retire due to his death during virtual realm exploration, coupled with his old age and declining health. Fernand Snow took this opportunity to collude with council members, bribe civil servants, and secure his position as the next mayor. It was also during this time that he established his Forest Gallery, which held significant influence over the upper echelons of Caimon City.


    At this crucial moment of nning for the mayoral election, he put aside all official duties, canceled all meetings, and drove an inconspicuous small sedan alone. He parked it by the side of a road so decayed that it seemed to produce its own filth. He turned the cars air conditioning to the maximum, smoked his pipe, and stared at an art studio at the corner of the street.


    It was a typical Ogre Art Studio.


    The entire street was full of Ogre Art Studios, so the smell was unbearable everywhere, greatly suppressing the surrounding property prices.


    Oil painting is a unique talent of Ogres, a low-quality citizenry with an average education level equivalent to prenatal education. They naturally would not challenge the difficulty of life; if they could ck off due to their talent, they would ck off to the point where they could not be helped.


    Although there are many practitioners, this industry is not saturated; on the contrary, it is in high demand. A real Ogre Oil Painting could be said to be in short supply.


    The reason is that Ogres asionally resonate with the Virtual Realm while painting. The oil paintings created under this state allow viewers to slowly enhance their factional boundaries, equivalent to sailing in the Virtual Realm.


    However, Ogre Oil Painting has a time limit, and it will lose its effect in about 60 days. Therefore, Ogre Oil Paintings are not works of art, but consumables. They are consumables that can still have effects on Sorcerers, and naturally, they are of high value.


    But the premise is that they can resonate with the Virtual Realm and paint a true Ogre Oil Painting. If they cant resonate with the Virtual Realm, they are simply producing trash.


    Therefore, most Ogre painters will first work as apprentices in the art studio for several months or even years. They work and learn at the same time until they paint their first painting and earn their first pot of gold. As for the work content of the apprentices, there is no need for cleaning, after all, not many Ogres like cleanliness.


    If it wasnt for the sake of dignity, Fernand Snow would also want to tear off this white shirt that was so tight it seemed to strangle him.


    As he exhaled a ring of smoke, Fernand Snow nced sideways and saw a young Ogre passing by his car.


    The young man was wearing a white vest that had now turned brown, and shorts full of holes. His height of 1.9 meters was considered short among Ogres, but his appearance was closer to the standard race, with a ferocious but not ugly set of pointed teeth.


    He was carrying tworge lunch boxes in his hands. This was his duty as an apprentice: buying meals for the painters.


    Ogres wanted to eat every two hours, and they loved hot food the most. But they were toozy to go to the restaurant, and thebor cost of ordering takeout was outrageously high no delivery person was willing toe to the Ogre district, as they wouldnt even bepensated by insurancepanies if they were harmed here so hiring an Ogre apprentice became the most ideal choice.


    After all, there was no need to pay them, just provide them with meals.


    The moment he saw this young man, Fernand Snow was stunned.


    The young man was also looking at the car, as if he was having a stare-off with the middle-aged Ogre inside.


    But after looking around and confirming that no one was around, the youngd smiled crookedly, spat a mouthful of foul and turbid saliva at the car window, then put down the lunch boxes and urinated on the car door. After he was done, he even picked up a small stone and scraped the car body harshly, the piercing sound like a knife piercing through Fernand Snows eardrums.


    The car window and the windshield were double-zed, and one couldnt see the inside from outside.


    Watching the young man trudge down the scorching street, whistling while carrying lunchboxes to the art studio, he seemed to be scolded by the boss as soon as he entered. He nodded and bowed with a pleasing face, then secretly spit into one of the lunchboxes before respectfully walking in.


    Throughout the process, Fernand Snow remained motionless, his hand still holding the posture of clenching a pipe.


    His gaze followed the young mans retreating figure, until thetter disappeared from sight.


    Finally, he drove back to the Government Affairs Hall and reported the cars damage.


    He had never bought a painting from the young man, nor had he sent anyone to help him. In fact, after that, he never saw the young man again.


    Even to get thetest information on the young man, Fernand Snow had asked the Heresy Court to investigate a dozen ogres under the guise of guarding against serious ogre crimes, and the young man was one of them.


    When Fernand Snow and the young man were separated only by a thin car window, but he dared not roll down the window, this man who had risen from the bottom to the top of power in Caimon City finally understood the terrifying pathology of this realm.


    Eight yearster, in 1668, at the Broken Lake Blood Moon Trial.


    Fernand Snow looked at the pale-faced Andrei and said, Did you know, in most realms, all races maintain the basic unit of the family


    Kenmen subconsciously said, Thats because theyre backward.


    I have no interest in debating whether the Family System is backward or advanced, I just want to point out one thing. Fernand Snow showed a fierce smile: In other realms, the ruling races can reproduce autonomously, even giving birth to royal and noble families!


    Everyones faces turned increasingly pale, illuminated redder and redder by the Blood Moon. Kenmen nearly begged: So their sses are solidified, theyre backward, the Blood Moon Realm is the most civilized realm


    The reason why we prohibit the existence of families is because our ruling race cannot reproduce autonomously, they are born homeless! Fernand Snow roared: Blood Saint Blood Exchange, Moon Shadow Moon Wash, they lose the ability to reproduce after changing their race, to develop new offspring, they must transform members of other races!


    The Blood Moon Dual Race is like a parasite that cannot survive on its own, they absorb the best talents of all races and turn them into their own members, absorbing the nutrients of all races to strengthen themselves, thereby enving all races for a thousand years!


    Why cant we have families? Because the Blood Saint Moonshadow has abandoned the bond of blood, so we are not allowed to have it! In this way, we cannot form a whole due to family, love, and kinship.


    Why emphasize racial human rights and freedom? Because the Blood Saint Moonshadow is a monster without gender, race, or age, they are almost a natural whole, and yet we will quarrel due to race, gender, age, education and other reasons! They deliberately provoke different races, different genders, different ages, different people to fight each other! In this way, we cannot form a collective due to havingmon interests.


    The Racial Human Rights Act erects high thick barriers around each of us, and the Bloodline Prohibition Law prevents us from any damage to this barrier. From then on, each of us is an independent individual, only able to face the research institute and the church, these two behemoths, alone!


    Fernand Snow raised his left hand, which was pressed by the chains, and pointed at the prison.


    Do we have any difference from those death row inmates? No. The ogre said coldly: Death row inmates are drained of value by the prison, and we are drained of value by the Blood Moon; death row inmates are controlled by chips, and we are controlled by ideology for life!


    In the Blood Moon Realm, from birth to death, we only have two paths to follow: be a Blood Saint Moonshadow, or be the food for the Blood Saint Moonshadow.


    Blood Moon is a beast wearing the cloak of civilization, it is the most barbaric civilization.


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 Chapter 137: Papa

    Chapter 137: Papa


    The night breeze came in waves, the Blood Moon was deste, and asionally, the sound of the waves and the finger shark leaping out of the water were audible.


    Ashe watched everything indifferently, seemingly uninterested in their discussions.


    Even so Andrei asked as if grasping at a lifeline, What does this have to do with you betraying the interests of the citizens to please the Blood Moon Dual Race? You see through everything, so you want to join them?


    I did everything I could, allying with all races, pleasing the Blood Moon, all to promote the establishment of the fighting league.


    But this


    You dont understand, Andrei. You cowardly human, you dont understand what is called valor.


    The Ogre said, Thats right, just like you predicted, after the fighting league is implemented, violence, death, and killing will be the main theme of this city. The Blood Saint Moonshadow will be pleased beyond words.


    But the new generation will learn from this barbarism, learn brutality, learn cruelty, they will develop a valor that our previous generations never had, a valor to dare to wield the knife against the Archon!


    Just for this? Andreis eyes widened.


    Not just that, whats more important is Hahaha, although I have always refused to admit that I was born in the trash heap that is the Foster Home, I have to admit, that ce is notpletely useless, it at least made me understand a way to break thew of the Blood Moon


    The Ogreughed heartily, Fight! There is nothing better than a fight to let two people understand each other. The only way an ogre makes friends is by having a good fight!


    You sacrifice the interests of the people, appease the Blood Moon Dual Race, and secure your position as the mayor, all for such an elusive goal? Andreiughed bitterly, Fernand Snow, are you really that kind-hearted?


    You dont understand, Andrei, you dont understand at all The Ogre said, If you want to pull down the Blood Moon Dual Race, or even challenge the Blood Moon Supreme, this is definitely not a miracle that one or two people can aplish, but history driven by all races, all people Only by sparing no expense is it possible to change this kingdom.


    At any cost?


    Yes, at any cost, you are the cost, I am the cost, and so are these generations of the popce. We are already ruined, and the hope of change can only be entrusted to the future. Our greatest meaning of existence is to serve as nourishment to enrich the soil, in the hope that this filthynd will one day bloom with normal flowers.


    Of course, if I say I have no self-interest, that would definitely be a lie.


    The Ogre nced at the Blood Moon in the night sky, If everything goes well, my reputation will reach its peak; if the sessors continue my path, a great revolution will inevitably break out. My name, ndor Fernand Snow, will be extolled through the ages, the wisdom of the Ogre will be crowned with the honor of challenging the Archon


    He shouted fervently, I want you mixed breeds to admit from the bottom of your hearts that Ogres are the greatest, smartest, and bravest race in this world!


    Andrei looked at the Ogre, nearly drowned in chains up to his neck, and was speechless for a moment.


    The moment Fernand Snow stated that the foundation of the Blood Moon Realm is to serve the Blood Moon Dual Race, he was doomed to die. The citizens would never let him go.


    It was as if in apletely sealed and even poisonous room, everyone was slowly dying in their sleep, but he woke up and shouted like an rm clock to wake the others. Would they be grateful to him? No, because waking up only added to the pain, because the walls were unbreakable, because mortals couldnt challenge the Archon.


    They just want this malicious rm clock to stop.


    Moreover, Fernand Snow didnt want to save them. On the contrary, the Ogre wanted to use the people of these generations as sacrifices, to suck dry their value to nourish thend, to save the people of the future.


    Aside from a small portion of the middle-aged and elderly, most of the young popce were lividwhy should we be the ones to sacrifice for the salvation of the next generation? What does the next generation have to do with us? Does their wellbeing concern us at all?


    This ogre mayor is nothing but a racist fanatic!


    Suddenly, the stone pir beneath the ogre shot up, lifting him alone into the air, over a hundred meters high. From below, people could see the ogre mayor in the center of the Blood Moon, seemingly about to be swallowed and melted by the crimson moonlight at any moment!


    With over 50% of the votes, the executioner arrives early. Ashes expression was calm: The executioner this time is the Hydra Executioner.


    The entire Shattered Lake seemed to boil, and amidst the waves, the stone pir divided into eight hideous, grotesque, giant snake bodies. The ogres stone seat also gradually morphed into the mouth of a giant snake. He sat within the snakes mouth, and with just a slight pucker from the snake, he could be digested and dissolved.


    But those who epted redemption from the Blood Moon Tribunal wouldnt have such an easy andfortable way to die.


    The camera eye flew high into the sky to record, while the ogre looked at it andughed:


    Ashe Heath, Ive done as you wished, thoroughly tearing off the facade of the Blood Moon Realm. However, I dont think this will have any effect What a pity, if I knew your capabilities earlier, I would have definitely secretly contacted the Four Pirs Religion No wonder the Blood Moon is cracking down on the Four Pirs Religion


    The other eight snake heads suddenly danced under the moonlight, biting at the ogres limbs from all sides!


    Blood sprayed from his body, all of it falling into the giant snakes mouth, not a drop wasted. The ogres body slightly trembled, but his eyes became brighter, and the smile on his face more sinister; his neat white teeth seemed to have all be pointed.


    You idiots who grew up under the Blood Moon, its impossible for a savior to be born among you You scum are not worthy of being saved by a savior At most, you can only give birth to schemers like me


    I knew before that you couldnt tolerate a kind savior, but I didnt expect that you couldnt even tolerate a vicious schemer like me.


    But thats okay.


    Fernand Snow revealed an arrogant sneer: From the moment I was born, Ive been ustomed to the humiliation of being isted by idiots.


    Under the Blood Moon, the nine snakes shared their meal.


    In an ogre art studio in Caimon City.


    There were lunchbox garbage everywhere, mixed with scattered paints, emitting an indescribable stench.


    A young ogre sat on a tattered soft chair, watching Fernand Snow being bitten to death by the nine snakes on the screen.


    This wasnt the first time hed seen Fernand Snow. In many news reports, hed seen his fellow ogre dressed formally, attending various elegant asions, known as the most refined ogre. He had cursed this ogre mayor countless times in the bars, using him of changing his teeth to please voters, not caring for ogres, and despite being so rich, not knowing to give some money to everyone


    At the start of the trial, he also looked forward to seeing Fernand Snow crushed into meat mush in theke. Hed been unhappy and even hateful towards Fernand Snow for a long timewhy should you be able to serve as mayor and enjoy all the glory while we can only live in the lower district, afraid to even order takeout?


    If it were a human or elf mayor, he wouldnt be so angry, but Fernand Snow was uneptable.


    Youre an ogre, why should your life be better than ours?


    He had also voted for Fernand Snows redemption just now.


    But now, watching the trial scene on the screen, the young ogre didnt know why, but he felt empty inside, very ufortable, more ufortable than being hungry, more ufortable than being beaten by a gang.


    A vague awareness dawned on him, his conjecture taking the form of a nine-headed hydra, gnawing relentlessly at his heart. He copsed to the ground in agony, tears spilling uncontrobly, but when he opened his mouth, no sound could escape.


    He was dry heaving, feeling as if he wanted to vomit his own soul, yet nothing came out.


    He wanted to call out, but he didnt know what to say.


    The mayor? Fernand Snow? That hybrid more repugnant than a beastmen dancer?


    Just then, a holographic disy suddenly popped up with a voice message:


    Congrattions, your redemption vote has sessfully punished a criminal. Thus, youve been selected for the Justice Bringers Roulette lottery round and have won the third-ce prize. We are now presenting to you


    This voice messagepletely shattered his mental defenses. The fearless young ogre could no longer hold back. Curled up on the ground like an infant, he burst into a fit of sobs, his face smeared with tears and snot. He cried until he couldnt breathe, cried until he was babbling nonsense.


    Oh hum mama oh papa


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 Chapter 138: Jailbreak Squad, Disband!

    Chapter 138: Jailbreak Squad, Disband!


    Above the Shattered Lake.


    Its over! Kenmen shouted loudly, The judgement is over, lets go back!


    Except for Andrei, who was still in a daze, the other six couldnt wait to return to the prison for reform, looking eagerly at Ashe. However, Ashe still held the Register of Sinners and calmly looked at them without any action.


    Everyone panickedwas this jailbreaker nning to obliterate them all?


    Suddenly, the sound of a turbine engine came from the distance. Everyone turned their heads to see a speedboat breaking the waves on the blood-redke surface. Although they couldnt see the people on the boat, they could guess with their toenails that it was not a middle-aged man who came to fish at night, but the Blood Mad Hunter from the Heresy Court!


    Seeing that someone finally came to stop the jailbreakers reckless actions, everyone was not happy, but even more panicked!


    No, please, not this kind of rescue after the judgement has ended!


    Originally, the jailbreaker might have been considering whether or not to spare their lives. Now, scared by the Heresy Court, wouldnt he cruelly kill them on the spot to provoke the Blood Moon Realm?


    Now they had no hope for the rationality of Ashe, the jailbreakerany sane person would have escaped from jail obediently, instead of holding a jailbreak trial himself, putting the mayor on the defendants seat, and luring everyone to express the dark side that the glory of the Blood Moon Realm could not illuminate!


    In their view, Ashe Heath no longer intended to live, he just wanted to turn his own funeral into a circus performance and n a magnificent ending for himself!


    But if you want to be fireworks yourself, do it on your own, dont drag us to see the Blood Moon Supreme!


    Seeing the speedboat in the distance, Ashe also made some moves. He closed the Register of Sinners and reached into the pocket of his trench coat.


    With a distant sword cry, a line of blood split the shatteredke, cut through the night sky, crossed the long distance, and pierced Ashes chest from afar!


    This bloodline seemed solid, and with a strong pull, the person was pulled from the speedboat to the rooftop!


    Looking at the figure that fell on the rooftop, the death row inmates were immediately reassured.


    It was Blood Mad Hunter Gerard, a Tri-Wing Sanctuary Sorcerer!


    With him here, this mere jailbreaker was definitely


    Eh? Kenmen asked in surprise, Where is he?


    Andrei finally recovered from the death of his political opponent. He turned his head to look at the rooftop and found that only Gerard was there.


    The host Ashe Heath, who brought them together and nned this possibly highest-rated Blood Moon Tribunal side story in history, was nowhere to be seen.


    He couldnt have disappeared right before a Tri-wing Artisan, could he?


    And Gerard clearly hit him just now, where did he go?


    Even if hes dead, there should be a body left, unless


    Substitute Spirit.


    Gerard squatted down, ignoring the crucial Register of Sinners, and picked up something simr to a pen, lightly pressing the mechanism inside.


    Ashes voice came from it: Youre right, so I didnt really want you to confess illegal facts, but I hoped you would reveal Fernand Snows legal illegal actions


    A voice recorder, a regr item for most citizens in the Blood Moon Realm, is specifically used to record others words and deeds. If discriminatory or criminal behavior is recorded, it can be anonymously reported to the Heresy Court. The Heresy Court provides cash rewards to citizens who help maintain public order and can also improve their own citizen credit level.


    Gerard stared at the pens on the ground. He was well aware that the Heresy Court had been yed  all of Ashes statements in the live broadcast came from these recording pens!


    The Heresy Court members never considered the possibility that Ashe in the live room could be fake. After all, creating a true clone capable of independent thinking, actions, and speech would require a Miracle of at least the third tier. Gerard had rushed here by speedboat himself, eager to arrest the chief culprit as soon as possible.


    Yes, even though he had no evidence at the moment, Gerard was convinced in his heart that the mastermind behind the jailbreak could only be the Four Pirs God Cult Leader, Ashe Heath!


    Suddenly, Gerard noticed one of the pens had a butterfly bow tied around it. He picked it up and pressed y to hear a cacophony of voices:


    Huh? Why did you stop talking, Igor? You were so enthusiastic just now. How about the story where Gerard got kicked out of the research institute for peeping on a legendary Sorcerer taking a bath, or the one where Gerard spent a ton of money helping impoverished girls, or the one about Gerard being a shared plug for several Bewitchers Can you talk more about these? I love these legendary tales.


    Ah, if the famous Trickster Igor Bukin wont talk, then its my turn to leave a message. Hi, Gerard Wessminster. This is Innocent Ashe Heath. Although Id like to advise you not toe after me, I guess you wouldnt take advice thats hard to hear. So all I can do is ask you to go after them first.


    Igor Bukin, Archibald Harvey, Langna Qios, Ronat Wade, they are all big viins with grave sins. Could you arrest them first? Let me live in fear for a few more days as punishment, is that okay?


    Dont get me wrong, Gerard. Im not trying to provoke you. I genuinely consider you a friend. So, I wanted to leave a message to thank you.


    After all, if you hadnt let me go that night, how could I have escaped tonight? Thank you, Gerard. Youre my hero.


    Gerard crushed the pen in his hand, ignoring the mournful nces of the condemned prisoners on the pirs. He turned to gaze at the edge of theke. As the clouds floated by, obscuring the moonlight, the world was plunged into darkness, yet the eyes of the sacred bloodline remained as bright as fire.


    Ashe, even if you want to say thank you, you could at least do it in person. Thiscks sincerity, doesnt it?


    In Caimon City, Pearl District, at a construction site, five men dressed in prison guard uniforms walked to the top of an unfinished building, overlooking the neon-lit city in the distance.


    The Pearl District, also known as the Pig District, was simr to the Wheat District, also known as the Lower District. Both were ces where the lower-ss residents of Caimon City lived.


    The difference was, the Lower District had been the lower district for hundreds of years. While it was poor, it was lively and organized. In contrast, the Pig District was a newly nned area that appeared only twenty years ago. Due to certain political issues, development had been stalled, and they couldnt even afford to pay the Earth Art construction team to finish the buildings. A once promising futuremercial district had turned into arge-scale cesspool for bandits, vagrants, and criminals.


    Suddenly, all five felt a lightness in their souls as if some kind of constraint had lifted.


    Fernand Snow is dead, Harvey, our contract with you is over, Langna dered.


    Harvey nodded, sincerely saying, Thank you.


    Its strange. We dont have a Chip, and we didnt see how Fernand Snow died. How did we automaticallyplete the contract? Ashe wondered. Could it be that the Virtual Realm helps us judge the progress of the contract, and as soon as it noticed Fernand Snows death, it immediately processed this contract?


    Thats why every industry needs a contract master, Igorughed. In most cases, the Virtual Realm is the fairest judge. Since we seeded, it means that Ashe really hosted a Blood Moon Tribunal using just those few recordings How did you do it?


    Isnt it obvious?


    Simple? How can you predict what others will say?


    You can tell youve never given a business presentation. Guiding others to ask the questions you need answered is a vital skill in the workce, its all about promotion and pay rise. Ashe spread his hands, When youve been beaten up by clients enough times, you naturally prepare several contingency ns to ensure foolproof.


    Although Igor was skeptical, he couldnt say anythingafter all, he was in charge of one-on-one direct sales, while Ashe was a cult leader who handled mass marketing. In this aspect, Ashe indeed had more say.


    Ronat pped his hands to draw everyones attention, Everyone, since Harveys contract has ended, and we have sessfully escaped prison, and arrived at the edge of Caimon City. The city is on our right, and the suburbs on our left.


    So, its time to disband, right?


    Langna, Igor, Harvey and others happily nodded. Ashe, filled with emotion, said, Im truly grateful for everyones strong support. Its because of this we were able to pull off this near-absurd n. This merit, this honor, belongs to each and every one of us!


    He put his finger into his mouth, I, Ashe Heath, will never forget each of you


    Boom!


    Crash!


    Snap!


    Ashe pulled out Honeyed Words, Dagger in Heart from his mouth, quickly retreated and raised Sword Aegis, pointing his sword at Langna. His sword heart pierced towards the bald man like a flying spear;


    Langna turned into a werewolf and pounced on Harvey. The darkness became his servant, sweeping over like a vast tide;


    With a wave of his hands, Harvey shot out three grey-ck energy spikes, each aimed at Igor, Langna, and Ronat;


    Ronat spread his hands and a handful of Steel Beads hung in the air. In a split second, they elerated to the speed of cutting through the air and breaking the sound barrier, targeting the Trickster;


    Igor let out a Mind Shriek on the spot. The ripples of vibration acted like armor, neutralizing other effects and flying objects. The piercing sound caused several cracks in this unfinished building!


    Since the team was disbanding, they became enemies!


    Did anyone think that escaping prison together would make them bosom buddies? Surely not?


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 Chapter 139: Return from the Prison Study

    Chapter 139: Return from the Prison Study


    Caimon City, Pearl Branch of the Sin Hunting Hall.


    Huh? The young hunter nced at the flickering Coffin Lamp, and immediately stood up. Someone has died.


    Another rotund beastman hunter, munching on chips, asked, Where did they die?


    Let me see The young hunter switched the Sin Hunting screen to the surveince footage, The ce of death is over by Third Street of Elf Lake.


    I know that ce, isnt it full of abandoned properties? Those stupid developers, they see a small pond and dare to call it Elf Lake, boasting of itskeside views; a couple of trees and they call it a private forest, a health secret; if the door to the stairs is a bit far, they can call it a ten-meter-long corridor! The fat beastman hunter spat out, The ads are so aggressive, but it still ended up being an unfinished project. Thankfully, I spent all my sry on gambling, or I would definitely be stuck with a house like Bernie.


    He tossed a handful of chips into his mouth, crunching loudly, Right, who died?


    Two people died, Louis Mill, a human male, 32 years old; Nyabrin Aiden, a female goblin, 14 years old


    Sugar history?


    The former six years, thetter three years.


    Must have hidden in the unfinished building and ate too much sugar, died during the Melting Sugar. But its quite rare that a human and a goblin were Melting Sugar together


    Even ogres, who naturally have the highest resistance to poison, will experience some hallucinations after eating Moon Sugar, let alone other species. Besides hallucinations, it also triggers a strong sexual drive and a sense of excitement. Therefore, sugar people often engage in conflicts or mating activities after consuming sugar. If multiple males and females consume sugar and mate together, it is referred to as Melting Sugar.


    The young hunter was somewhat uneasy, A 14-year-old goblin, isnt she not old enough to leave the Foster Home yet?


    Oh, it seems you didnte from a Foster Home in the vegetable market. The fat beastman hunterughed, If you work a few more shifts here, youll find out. This area is full of low-level Foster Homes, and for the brats inside, escaping is easier than taking a dump. Many of the main members of the small gangs are underage kids. Because of the Child Protection Law, even if theymit crimes, their sentences can be reduced, they are quite audacious. If they grow up, they either join gangs or go to prison to mine tinum for life.


    Sowe dont need to check this out? If the underage goblin was sent to the hospital in time


    No need, handle it likest time, just send the location information directly to the hospital, let them send someone to deal with the bodies. The fat beastman hunter shrugged, If hunters are dispatched, a case has to be filed, right? A file needs to be written, right? The body needs to be dealt with, right? The scene needs to be protected, right?


    The most important thing is, all this fuss, our sry wont increase by a single silver coin, but our workload will increase. And in the end, the hospital will still take the bodies. Isnt it better to skip straight to that step now?


    The young hunter had difficulty epting this, We dont care if people die in gang fights, we dont care if people die from sugar, what do we hunters care about?


    I guess thats why a college-graduate hunter like you got transferred to such a remote branch. The fat beastman hunter calmly said, It seems that you must have been a very annoying, justice-riddenedic character in the Hall.


    The young hunter shook his head, put on his coat, and prepared to leave.


    We hunters, we only protect the living, not the dead. The fat beastman hunter said, Let those who choose to go down the road of self-destruction, who dont cherish their own lives, fend for themselves. Thats being responsible to society.


    When did a 14-year-old goblin girl, who hasnt even left the Foster Home, get to choose her own path? The young hunter shouted, Its not her responsibility to society, but societys responsibility to her!


    And yet, after all the Blood Moon Dual Race has done to us, how can we just stand by and watch others be harmed by this society?


    Watching the young hunter storm out and m the door, the chubby beastman hunter scratched his head, I didnt expect this university student who secretly watching the Blood Moon Tribunal during his shift Hmph, and he talks as if hes so noble. Wait until I report him and get his monthly bonus deducted, then he will know he was wrong


    Young people are indeed young. They believe whatever the Ogre says, not even considering that those who can sit in that position are crafty politicians. They twist narratives against them while highlighting any advantages they have. But it seems that quite a few young people have been incited by that Ogre


    Blood Moon Dual Race the most barbaric civilization


    The chubby beastman hunter nced at the empty bag of chips, licked his fingers, and looked up at the Blood Moon outside, Speaking of which, why was I transferred to this branch office?


    The beastman opened the holographic screen, flipped through past albums, until the image stopped at a photo from three years ago. In the photo, he had just joined the Heresy Court, wearing a handsome dark red uniform, looking strong and vigorous, full of vitality, and his face was filled with a sunny smile.


    He looked at the mirror next to him, only to see a decrepit beastman covered in the bloody moonlight.


    Its only us middle-aged people who are wasted. Theres still hope for the young.


    Mayor, died beautifully.


    On Third Street of Elf Lake, a half-finished building copsed with a loud bang, startling a flock of birds.


    Ashe hid behind a broken wall, nced at the blood spreading under the rubble next to him, and said, Stop ying around, if we dont leave now, the Heresy Court will catch up. Im sure Gerard is so mad at my message that he wants to elerate his pursuit with tulence, but if you guys want to vent your anger on a Tri-Wing Sanctuary Sorcerer, I dont mind.


    Igor hiding behind another wall asked, Did you really leave a message for Gerard? But how do you know that Gerard was the first to arrive at the Tribunal?


    I guessed. You better pray I guessed wrong. Ashe asked, So, do you still want to fight?


    No more fighting. Harvey, hiding in the shadow of the second floor, said, I cantmunicate with the chip processors around here right now. Its too much trouble to kill you guys.


    Is it my illusion, Harvey, youve be very arrogant after jailbreak. Ronatughed.


    Ronat, do you still have time tough? Arent you afraid that Langna next to you will swallow you whole? Igor provoked, Theres no Medic around here to save you.


    Thats for Beautiful Beast to worry about. Langnaughed, When the news of your jailbreak spread, Im sure your old clients couldnt wait to negotiate big deals with you against your notoriety from Feimeng City to Caimon City is well-known. Even in jail, I knew many people hated you.


    So, lets all go our separate ways


    Wait! Ashe suddenly shouted, Before we part, I have a question, do you know of any ways to leave the Blood Moon Realm?


    After a brief silence, Harvey said faintly, Regardless of whether there is a way or not, why should I tell you even if there is?


    Ashe said, Its like confessing love. If you dont confess, theres definitely no chance, but if you do, maybe the other person will be blind?


    Speaking of which, Ashe, you still owe me a wish. Igor said yfully, The jailbreak went too smoothly, and I never had the chance to use this wish What should I use this wish for? How about making you do push-ups in the middle of the ruins right now?


    I think a wish should be practical, itd be best if it doesnt bother me and benefits you. How about you wish for me to buy you a birthday cake? I think a fruit cake would be nice.


    Coincidentally, I dont need to benefit myself, I just want to see you in trouble, Igor roared. And youre the one who wanted to eat the fruit cake!


    I dont know, Langna answered straightforwardly.


    I have some ideas, but I cant tell you, Ronat chuckled. The fewer people who know, the better.


    You guys really dont share any thoughts Asheined, Harvey, can I ask you for a favor?


    Hmm?


    I have two casualties here. They were probably near the building when our battle caused it to copse, causing them to be hit by the rubble. After we leave, could you save them? I will clear the debris.


    Harvey was silent for a moment: From what I can sense, youre the only living person there.


    I see


    So I can save them.


    What? Ashe was startled.


    Two dark green lights flew out from the second floor, striking the rubble next to Ashe.


    If they havent died yet, I cant really save them. But if theyre dead, I can use my Miracle to temporarily turn them into living corpses. Their bodies wont further dpose for ten hours, and if they can be treated within this period, theres a chance they can survive. You dont need to clear the debris, otherwise, they might attack others, Harvey said. But this is the Pig District, theyll need some luck.


    Thank you.


    Ashe blinked when his gratitude went unanswered, realizing that everyone else had left.


    Ashe used the sword heart to clear some of the rubble, exposing the heads of the living corpses, and then quickly circled around to another street, took off his prison guard uniform, put on the Crow Suit given to him by the Medic, and strode confidently into this unfamiliar city.


    Since I havent found a way to leave the Blood Moon Realm yet, Ill put that aside for now, andplete my role-specific sideline tasks first


    Standing in front of a public bus station, Ashe looked at the city map and quickly found the stop for Caimon Comprehensive University.


    Professor Sylin, your student has returned from the prison.


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 Chapter 140: Freya

    Chapter 140: Freya


    Freya, huping from the alcohol, clung to the railing and wobbled up the stairs. As a Bewitcher, she had high resistances to many things, and it was usually hard for her to get drunk  but her body would respond to her emotions, drinking alcohol like water when unhappy, and getting drunk just by the smell when she was happy.


    Ah, Ive tried every Mud Worker at the Frostfall Mud Caf, maybe its time for a change Ad mentioned a new butler-themed Mud Cafe near the west gate of the university, Ill check it out once I get my schrship But the abs of the Mud Fish Dragon are so amazing, I wouldnt mind ordering another


    Pity about the Rock Dragon, he was good at his work, too bad he died in Event 422


    Reaching the third floor, the lights in the corridor flickered on and off. Freya, used to the oddities, fumbled for her keys. The building was an old apartment block built 70 years ago,cking an elevator, floor heating, air conditioning, and often had issues with aged wiring. Its only advantage was cheap rent. If thendlord hadnt been alive, it would have been demolished and rebuilt long ago.


    But that wouldnt be long now. Thendlord was a beastman in his sixties, and in a few years, he would definitely sell his property to fund a anti-aging surgery. This operation was much cheaper than life-extension surgeries and was popr among lower-ss Sorcerers and ordinary people.


    Once the research institute got hold of the building, they would naturally co-develop it with real estate developers, building a taller and prettier apartment block, like the two new buildings being built near the west gate. But this was none of Freyas business, as she would have graduated and left by then.


    Opening the door, Freya found the lights were on in her home, which was odd  had she left the lights on before going to ss?


    Slipping off her boots at the entrance and changing into slippers, Freya walked in to see a hooded man sitting at her desk, using her Mist Sea brand Screen of Knowledge, sipping the Strong Beastman Sweet Milk she had left in the fridge, and typing away on the Yingmiluo Keyboard.


    Her pet Fold-ear Cat Xiao Xian was sprawled on the desk, stretchingzily, then affectionately rubbing against the mans hand.


    Her apartment was a standard one-bedroom unit with a desk, bed, balcony, bathroom, and a small kitchen. Standing at the entrance, she could see everything at a nce.


    The man noticed her and turned his head.


    Wee back.


    Oh, Im back.


    As the man returned to his browsing, Freya scratched her head, opened the fridge to take a swig of cold water, and suddenly felt a wave of nausea. She rushed into the bathroom and vomited into the toilet.


    While she was vomiting, she felt someone gently patting her back, making the process a bit more bearable. A stack of three tissues was handed to her, and she took it without thinking: Thank you.


    After vomiting, Freya felt a lot sober. She tossed her clothes onto a chair  everyone has a chair specifically for their dirty clothes  and then headed to the bathroom to take a shower.


    As the gentle water fell on her body, Freyas rity gradually returned. Leaning against the wall, she held her chin, feeling a strong sense of unease, but couldnt pinpoint what was wrong.


    Suddenly, Freyas eyes went cold, and she pped her hands together.


    I only went twice tonight, I usually go three times, I missed out tonight! She clicked her tongue, Even though the Mud Worker I picked tonight was a bitcking, I paid for it, I should have enjoyed it to the end!


    After the shower, she meticulously dried herself with a towel, especially under the arms, under the breasts, and the inner thighs. Drying off gave Freya a refreshing feeling.


    She examined the white down on her forearms and calves, thinking it was time for a trim. Being a Bewitcher had its inconveniences, like the need to frequently trim the fuzz on her limbs, or else it would get too long and cause excessive sweating.


    Freya stepped out onto the balcony naked, the curtains were drawn and no one usually came to bother her, plus the weather was gradually warming up. Being a Bewitcher, she had an easily perspiring constitution  even though their sweat smelled enchanting, it was sticky  so being in her natural state was the mostfortable.


    She jumped onto the bed and rolled around a couple of times, then called out. Xiao Xian hopped over from the mansp and nestled in Freyas arms.


    Freya snuggled against the meteor dragon pillow, rubbing Xiao Xian with one hand while opening the light screen with the other, browsing the school forum on the Canopy.


    She noticed that everyone was discussing the Blood Moon Tribunal that was happening tonight, with words like Fenand Snow, Social Foster System, and Can we still take the City Public Examination in the future? leaving Freya a little bewildered  she was drinking at the Mud Cafe when the Blood Moon Tribunal began tonight.


    Opening the Mind Series study group, she found everyone was also discussing the Blood Moon Tribunal and had divided into Blood Moon Faction and Fenan Xue Faction. They were engaged in a three hundred round battle in the study group with a massive 999+ info flow. Freya scrolled up but couldnt reach the top, only knowing that they were arguing about the necessity of the existence of the Blood Moon Dual Race.


    The majority believed that the Blood Moon Dual Race is the cornerstone of societal development, that the long-living life of the Blood Moon Dual Race was the guarantee of societal stability, and all kinds of Sorcerer technology could only be developed by the Blood Moon Dual Race, who didnt care about short-term gains.


    The opposition believed that the Blood Moon Dual Race restricted the development of multiple races. They argued that because the Blood Moon Dual Race absorbed all high-quality talents, other races couldnt produce great schrs and sorcerers; the glory of the Blood Moon Dual Race was built on the blood-sucking of other races!


    Wait, is this something we students can resolve with discussion?


    Even if you conclude that the Blood Moon Dual Race shouldnt exist, will you wake up tomorrow to find them all dead?


    Everyone is so angry tonight.


    Is this Blood Moon Tribunal that exciting?


    Freya browsed the Canopy for a while, feeling uneasy, her legs unconsciously rubbing against each other.


    Two times wasnt enough, she needed a third!


    But she usually used videos as spellcasting materials, and all her videos were stored in the Screen of Knowledge. After all, it had a 32-inch screen, not only was the imagerger and the resolution higher, but it could also storerger video files.


    Freyas chip model was Miracle 11, with a pitiful storage capacity of only 10 zones. After storing some important documents and data, it had no spare capacity. The Screen of Knowledge, on the other hand, had a whopping 800 zones of storage. Freya had stuffed all of her games and entertainment in there and still hadnt filled it up.


    However, the Screen of Knowledge was currently being used by that man. Freya walked over and nced at it from beside the table, seeing him watching a rey of tonights Blood Moon Tribunal. She then tapped him on the shoulder, I need to use it.


    Ah, you go ahead.


    The hooded man obediently left the chair, and Freya sat down, opening the New Folder with ease.


    Inside the folder were four more folders, named Not Used Yet, Used Only Once, Used a Few Times, and Used Countless Times.


    She considered for a moment, she was in a hurry now, it wasnt exploration time, so she chose the fourth folder. Opening a video called Naughty Male Apprentice Punished~Bewitcher Female Professor Specializing in Mind Hypnosis, she dragged the progress bar directly to the most exciting part, the pleasant sobbing sound instantly making her intoxicated.


    Just as she was unable to contain herself, she suddenly felt something wrong.


    Why


    Why was the chair warm?


    It was as if someone had been sitting there.


    Freya spun around abruptly, locking eyes with Ashe, who was sitting on the edge of the bed, hiding his face behind a book, and secretly peeking. Although Ashe quickly averted his gaze, Freya waspletely brought back to reality.


    She wore a pondering expression, raising a single finger and pointing at Ashe dreamily, Ah, are you the shing Fish Dragon!?


    No, Im not.


    Then, then, are you the Azure Fire Dragon?


    No, not that either.


    Freya couldnt think of any other possibilities: Then which Mud Cafes Mud Worker are you? I dont recall ordering a home service for tonight.


    In fact, home service was quite expensive, and she had been spending a lottely, unable to afford it.


    Im not a Mud Worker.


    If youre not a Mud Worker, then why are you in my housewait, I saw you when I got home just now. Even if you were providing home service, you shouldnt have the keys to my house!


    Freya retreated to the balcony door in shock, Are you a burr?


    No, Im actually the incarnation of the Blood Moon Supreme. I was trapped by my enemies and had to remain in this world in my current form. If you let me stay here for a few nights, once I regain my Supreme status, I could promote you to be a four-winged legendary sorcerer. How does that sound?


    Really!? Freya immediately rushed over, grabbed Ashes left hand, her tearful eyes filled with hope, Really a four-winged sorcerer?


    Ashe had to divert his gaze from her dazzling and unabashed headlight eyes, Of course not.


    Huh?


    The more you put in, the more you get out. To be a four-winged legendary sorcerer by simply allowing me to stay a few days, there is no such good thing. Seeing the dissatisfaction on Freyas face, and theck of willingness to help, Ashe quickly added, But I can give you a spirit as a reward, how about that?


    What kind of spirit?


    What kind do you want?


    A Heart Sect spirit!


    Okay. Ashe opened his palm, and a curled-up caterpir spirit appeared in it. Even though it was a caterpir, it wasnt disgusting at all, but instead invoked a sincere feeling of pity.


    In preparation for an equivalent exchange, during hisst exploration into the Virtual Realm, Ashe didnt immediately convert the spirits he got into game points, but stored them all in his soul. As expected, they came in handy.


    Compassion Art Spirit! Freya instantly recognized this spirit. Even though it was amon spirit within the Heart Sect, she hadnt summoned it yet, Deal! This is the one!


    Freya reached out to take it, but Ashe pulled his hand back.


    Ill give it to you when I leave.


    How do I know you wont go back on your word?


    Ashe was prepared, pulling out a glowing white contract paper, We can sign a contract, this is a contract paper made by an insurance agent.


    This paper was made by Igor. As an insurance agent, Igor naturally had the ability to create Miracle Contract Papers.


    The rtionship between Ashe and Igor was not of Igors volition. However, Ashes reason was I might need to sign a temporary contract with someone during my jailbreak. Perhaps Igor couldnt refuse a request that could aid in the jailbreak, or perhaps he was just tired of Ashes nagging, so in the end, he unwillingly let Ashe freeload several times.


    Freya blinked, Well okay then.


    Without further dy, Ashe began drafting the contract. The terms were simple: Ashe could stay at Freyas house for a few days and use the tools there, and Freya wouldnt disclose Ashes presence in any way. In return, Ashe had to give the Compassion Art Spirit to Freya before he left.


    Freya watched Ashe draft the contract, pressing her hands inward, herrge white bosom forming a holy cleavage. Catching a glimpse of this beautiful sight from the corner of his eye, Ashe almost wrote his own name as Big Soft White.


    How did you know my name is Freya Hoyle?


    Your notebook has your name on it.


    And the name of the Blood Moon Supreme is Ashe Heath?


    Do you have a problem with that?


    None at all.


    The contract was finalized, Ashe signed his name, and handed the pen to Freya.


    Freya took the pen and paused, seemingly pondering something. Ashe watched her, cold sweat pouring down his spine, but she quickly signed her own name.


    The contract took effect, an invisible shackle connecting Ashe and Freya. Ashe breathed a sigh of relief. Not only did he temporarily have a ce to stay, but he could also use Freyas Screen of Knowledge to browse the Canopy and gather information, allowing him to slowly n his side missions.


    Fortunately, he was able to find a college girl who wasnt too bright. He had been prepared, if he couldnt freeload using his apocalypse observer ability, he would immediately relocate, even if it meant living under a bridge for a few days. It would just make investigating Professor Sylin a bit more difficult.


    But dont they have text scams in this world? A college girl who hasnt even seen scam messages like I, the Blood Moon Supreme, need money?


    Youre actually the leader of the Four Pirs God Cult, Ashe Heath, arent you?


    Freya, holding Xiao Xian, tilted her head, I even voted for you in the Blood Moon Tribunal before.


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 Chapter 141: What Professors Teach Beyond Knowledge

    Chapter 141: What Professors Teach Beyond Knowledge


    At Caimon Comprehensive University, lecture hall 107.


    The deconstruction of character is a significant research direction in the Heart Sect.


    Ordinary people or sorcerers who have not studied mental knowledge all unavoidably make pre-conceived characterizations of unfamiliar people they just met, also known colloquially asbeling. Rich and gentle, poor and inferior, strong and domineering, weak and tender We distill the most conspicuous characteristics of the other person and incorporate them into our thinking.


    Labeling is a very normal mental activity, which can help us quickly find the most reasonable way to interact: be humble in the face of a strong enemy, take a mile when given an inch in the face of the weak. It can even be said thatbeling is a necessary survival skill.


    But for Spirit Art Masters, this pre-conceived characterization often presents the best opportunity for us to cast our spells. We can influence strangers silently through character deconstruction, generally in two ways.


    The first method is the simplest, conforming deconstruction. Generally speaking, after close interaction, people gradually modify their understanding of others, from simplebeling toplexbeling. For example, rich and gentle might be rich, stingy towards others, gentle, but only towards friends, etc. People deconstruct aplex individual into easy-to-understand concepts through limited information.


    In conforming deconstruction, the Spirit Art Master, after giving an initial impression, constantly reveals expected characteristics. For example, if I dress up as a rich and funny middle-aged man to chat up someone in a bar, theyll expect me to have a luxury car, and then I indeed pull out a luxury car key; theyll assume I live in the Upper District, and then I inadvertently reveal that I live in Phoenix Garden Then, what do you think the result of my chat-up that night was?


    Give the first impression that the other party likes, and continuously reveal details for the other party to automatically fill in the characterization, and you can quickly gain their trust. Because you didnt actually say anything, everything about you was inferred by the other party, they will unconditionally believe in their own judgment.


    Many victims of romance scams are fooled by this technique, leading them to believe that love truly exists in this world. Personally, I do not rmend that you use this method, and if you do, dont scam money; having a pleasant evening is enough.


    There are many ways to use conforming deconstruction, which I wont borate on here. Those interested can purchase my book, 108 Practical Character Temtes, avable for download on the Canopy.


    The second method is the hardest, reverse deconstruction. You dont need to worry about the impression you give to others, you only need to detail the impression others give to you. Simply put, its guiding others to conform to your impression of them through techniques such as spirit, Miracle, rhetoric, etc.


    If you think the other person is kind and generous, then in front of you, they be kind and generous. But you cant simplybel them, you have to think about why they are kind and why they are generous. Then reinforce this understanding through various details, leading the other person to unconsciously conform to your impression even if they resist conforming to this impression.


    This soundsplicated, but if youve read The History of Social Change, you can definitely associate this with an ancient social unit yes, its the Family System that Fernand Snow mentionedst night.


    In the Family System, male and female guardians often use this method of reverse deconstruction to shape their children into their impression of a good child. It is said that in ancient times, the easiest way to be a Spirit Art Master was to raise a perfect child.


    Here we arent discussing the correctness of Fernand Snows statements, but theres no doubt that deconstruction in reverse will kill a childs individuality, depriving them of their human rights and freedom. This is also one of the reasons why the Family System has been swept into the dustbin of history. But for us, the Spirit Art Masters, reverse deconstruction is our lifelong direction of research and learning.


    Powerful Spirit Art Masters are no longer satisfied with deconstructing sentient beings in reverse. Instead, they are reversing the deconstruction of this world  The world revolves around me. This is the highest realm for a Spirit Art Master!


    Thats it for this lesson, ss is over.


    As the bell rang signaling the end of ss, students hurriedly left, and in a short while, more than half of the ssroom was empty.


    Ad, who sat next to Freya, slumped softly on the table and sighed, At this rate, when will I be able to summon a spirit to gamble for me? This elective really teaches everything besides knowledge.


    Freya, wearing a cool camisole today, nodded in agreement.


    Comprehensive universities do not have a Mind Series, or rather, none of the universities in the entire Blood Moon Realm do. At most, there are electives on mind knowledge, like the Mind Analysis course they chose.


    The professor talks eloquently above them, but he has never taught how to summon spirits. He keeps repeating interpersonal rtionship strategies and tempting everyone to buy his book  if Freya hadnt misjudged, the professor even used a suggestion kind of spirit just now, making the students think that his book 108 Practical Character Temtes contained the method to summon spirits.


    Although the course is of low quality and the professorcks integrity, the price is not cheap at all. Just for this course, Freyas student loan has risen by a full 5%.


    While its true that anyone can find all kinds of knowledge for free in the Canopy, the knowledge that makes money is not only not free, but also has a very high threshold and is strictly confidential.


    For example, the field of biology, the 17th century was the century of biology, and biological imnters are currently the highest paid profession. But to learn relevant knowledge, one has only to be an apprentice to a biology professor, and essentially a 10-year employment contract is unavoidable.


    The official profession of the Mind Series is only a psychotherapist, but everyone knows that a real Spirit Art Master is either a criminal or a politician (actually, theyre quite simr). They can be described as high-risk, high-reward, so its only natural that the knowledge of the Heart Sect is hard toe by.


    If it werent for the fact that Freya is a Bewitcher, and has a high probability of being able to summon a spirit on her own, she would rather spend her tuition money at the Mud Cafe for a few happy days.


    Ad said, How about dinner at Salehs tonight?


    No money, Freya saidzily, I just went to Frostfallst night.


    Ill treat you.


    Did you win money?


    Hehe, Ad gave a cat-like smirk, I ced a heavy bet on Fernand Snow in the Blood Moon Tribunalst night and made a lot.


    How much did you make?


    All I can tell you is, if Id lost, I would have had to work in the Tea Cafe for the next few months.


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 Chapter 142: Cooking

    Chapter 142: Cooking


    You really arent afraid of losing all your schrship money, huh


    Freya shook her head, And dont overestimate yourself. Even in Tea Caf, you might not be able to enter the lowest-grade Green Tea. If you want to make money in Tea Caf, youd better take a loan and get a full-body medical beauty treatment first. Your body curve, appearance, hair, lips, smell, and various structures such as erotic acupoints all need adjustment


    Ad looked terrified, Is it that scary?


    Let me give you a description. Freya pointed at herself, If I go to Tea Caf, Id only be a Green Tea level tea artist at most, and my performance would certainly be mediocre.


    Has Tea Caf be toopetitive! Even a bewitcher can only scrape by!?


    In my opinion, Mud Caf is much morepetitive than Tea Caf. Next time youe with me to Mud Caf, I can introduce you to a beastman who is more beautiful than a bewitcher.


    Its all the medics fault! Ad clenched her teeth in anger, In this day and age, even a natural beauty like me cant make money with my body.


    Thats why you need to study hard. Sorcerer is the leastpetitive profession. Freya started packing up her books, The Virtual Realm doesnt care about your ranking, only about whether you are qualified or not.


    Ad got up too, Lets go, lets eat at Sis.


    Sis is a music restaurant near the university. Its affordable, has a wide variety of dishes, and is very popr with students. It even divides areas into Moon Sugar and non-Moon Sugar zones, so students dont have to worry about neighboring diners suddenly eating too much sugar and going crazy.


    Im not going with you.


    Ah, why? Ill treat you.


    I have something to do tonight.


    Ad paused, Going to Mud Caf two nights in a row? Youre so rich?


    Not going to Mud Caf. Freya propped her chin up, Its something I shouldnt tell you.


    Before leaving in the morning, Ashe had asked for Freyas schedule and told her to return home as soon as she finished her sses. Freya, feeling responsible for harboring a fugitive, decided to go home first to see how things were.


    Ad looked doubtful, then suddenly grabbed Freyas shoulders, Youre not dating, are you? Dont be fooled by those Mud Workers from Mud Caf!


    No, how could it be. Freyaughed and waved her off, Have you ever heard of a bewitcher being tricked by the opposite sex?


    Ad thought about it and indeed, since she knew Freya, Freya had frequented more than a dozen Mud Cafs near the university and never been infatuated with a particr Mud Workerbewitchers are a notorious one-time race, they adore before mating, and despise after, with very few exceptions.


    Dating is naturally insted from bewitchers. They cannot tolerate long-term intimate rtionships with the same person.


    Ad clicked her tongue, If youre not going, Im toozy to go to Sis. Ill go eat at the High Fortune buffet then.


    High Fortune is the most famous casino near the university. As long as you buy a certain amount of chips, you can enjoy the buffet inside for free. Freya warned, Dont lose all your meal money, I dont have money to lend you.


    Im lucky today, dont curse me!


    After leaving the ssroom and parting ways with Ad, Freya silently prayed to the Blood Moon Supreme, hoping they would protect Ad from losing everythingotherwise, Ad would definitely follow her around for free food and drinks.


    Ad is her college best friend, a human female with green hair and eyes. Her hobby is gambling. Although she has a serious gambling habit, its not umon in collegegambling and sex are basically something every student has to experience, and its even more likely for them to experience both. As for those wooden people who dont touch either, they are ostracized by everyone.


    On the other hand, the proportion of sugar eaters among college students is rtively low. Although there is no survey, everyone believes that eating sugar will reduce thinking ability, and sugar eaters basically do not have the academic ability to get into college.


    However, Ad is not a gambler who loses her mind to the game. She is so brazen because she has confidence, for her grades are among the best. If she pushes a little harder, she canpletely get into the Red Mist Research Institute for postgraduate studies upon graduation. The institute will naturally help her to waive her student loan by then.


    In popr terms, she can settle down very soon, so naturally she has little concern about the future.


    For those like Freya who cant get into postgraduate studies, they have to pay back their student loans after graduation. If they cant find a good job to pay back the loan, the bank will introduce them to more profitable jobs  such as a tea master at the Tea Caf.


    How many of her seniors have been transformed into mud workers in the Mud Cafe, specifically catered to the various preferences of the customers


    Lost in thought, Freya returned to her apartment.


    In the staircase, she ran into Auntie Mn from the second floor. As soon as she greeted, her arm was grabbed by the aunt. The fur area on the forearm is a weak point for Bewitchers, and Freya didnt dare to exert force. She just listened to Auntie Mns chatter: Freya, dont trust men. No matter how good they appear, theyre liars. Men fundamentally cant empathize with women. I was


    After hearing the ssic story of young and beautiful Mn being deceived by a scumbag man again, Freya took advantage of an opportunity to break free and said, I got it, Auntie Mn. Im a Bewitcher, I wont be deceived by men!


    Auntie Mn sighed and yelled from behind, Men love to tie you up with little favors. If hes unwilling to spend a lot of money on you, hes a liar!


    Auntie Mn was quite excited today. Did she encounter the man who cheated her money in the Mud Cafe? Freya was lost in thought. As she pulled out her key to unlock the door, she suddenly remembered that there was a cult leader living inside.


    Speaking of which, why did he ask me toe back early?


    What would a cult leader do when no one is around?


    Definitely some evil ritual, right?


    Did he ask me back to be a sacrifice?


    No, the contractst night clearly stated neither party can harm each other.


    Did heck manpower for the ritual and wanted me to help?


    But wouldnt that turn me from an aplice into a perpetrator?!


    And although the cult leader cant harm me, which cult leader doesnt have a few followers? There might be a lot of viins dressed in ck robes and holding torches inside!


    Even though she thought so, Freya still had to open the door and take a look. If there was danger, shed run away immediately. This is a city area; an escaped criminal wouldnt openly chase a female college student on the street, right?


    Freya opened the door, her nose twitched slightly, and she smelled the fragrance of food. She walked into the entrance with suspicion and saw Ashe, who was wearing an apron in the small kitchen, busy with the kitchen utensils she had never taken out since she moved in.


    Xiao Xian was circling around his feet, meowing from time to time, seemingly wanting to taste his cooking.


    Seeing her, Ashe smiled and said, Sit for a while. Ill finish thest dish soon, and we can have dinner.


    Wee home.


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 Chapter 143: I’ll Try My Best Not To Kill You

    Chapter 143: I��ll Try My Best Not To Kill You


    There was no dining table in Freyas home, so the dishes were ced on the desk.


    Freya sat on a chair that was originally used for dirty clothestheundry had been taken by Ashe for washing and was now drying on the balcony. She pointed at the fiery L Fat Rice in front of her, the Sorcerers lettuce sd and the foggy spinach egg pancake, and asked nkly, You called me back just to have dinner together?


    Xiao Xians cat food today was covered with ayer of L Fat Sauce and was quite delicious.


    Yes. Ashe took off his apron. Although I can wear a mask to avoid surveince from the cameras, I would have to reveal my face when eating. I cant eat out So I can only buy ingredients to cook at home. Like at noon, I just bought a pie to eat.


    Then why not eat a pie for dinner as well, why cook?


    To be honest, the food standards in the prison were quite good. I can deal with it at lunch, but if I cant have a good meal for dinner, thats a bit


    So why did you call me back?


    Because its impossible to cook just one portion. I cant eat all three dishes by myself, so I called you back to eat together.


    It sounded reasonable, but Freya still found it strangeYou are Ashe Heath, the leader of the Four Pirs God Cult. When youre hungry, shouldnt you just randomly find a passerby, crack open their skull and have a taste of fresh brain?


    In fact, Ashe didnt know how to cook before. This was a skill he gained from reading the Sorcerer Handbook, titled Mastery of Common Recipes, and it came in handy sooner than he expected.


    Having juste out of prison, where did you get the money to buy ingredients? Freya suddenly remembered this.


    She wasnt afraid of Ashe taking her money. In fact, her house didnt have any money. She wasnt a sorcerer yet, so she didnt need to carry Silver Coins. For purchases, the digital currency in her chip was directly deducted.


    You can earn money in prison too. Ashe took a bundle of exquisite banknotes from his bag and eximed, I used Silver Coins to buy ingredients, and I didnt expect to get so much change.


    To be precise, the cost of the ingredients for this sumptuous dinner didnt even reach one-twentieth of a Silver Coin. A Silver Coin could meet the food needs of an average person for about twenty days, and only eighteen coins were needed for a year. The exchange rate between Gold Coins and Silver Coins seemed to be 1:100


    After a day of shopping, Ashe felt that he needed to revise his impression of Medic222She was not a richdy who could casually give out a Gold Coin. She was a mega-rich woman!


    While talking, Ashe opened a video in the Screen of Knowledge called Why Sorcerers Are Great. The Canopy had many such educational videos mainly aimed at ordinary people who didnt have the opportunity to attend college.


    But for a prospective sorcerer like Freya, the knowledge in these videos was a bit shallow. However, apanied by humorous dialogue and hrious scenes, they were quite interesting to watch.


    Did he just randomly find this video? As a formal sorcerer, he doesnt need to watch these educational videos, right?


    It is worth mentioning that before the official broadcast of the video, there was a 30-second advertisement, which switched to the Heresy Courts wanted notice in thest ten seconds.


    Corpse Lover Archibald Harvey, One-wing Sorcerer, Death/Alive Bounty: 10 Gold Coins, Information Reward: 1 Silver Coin.


    Carrion Crow Ronat Wade, One-wing Sorcerer, Death/Alive Bounty: 8 Gold Coins, Information Reward: 8 Silver Coins.


    Trickster Igor Bukin, Two-wing Sorcerer, Death/Alive Bounty: 15 Gold Coins, Information Reward: 2 Silver Coins.


    Death Eater Langna Qios, Two-wing Sorcerer, Death/Alive Bounty: 20 Gold Coins, Information Reward: 2 Silver Coins.


    Demonic Saint Ashe Heath, Power Unknown, Death/Alive Bounty: 50 Gold Coins, Information Reward: 5 Silver Coins.


    Youre quite valuable,


    Thank you for thepliment. Do you regret it?


    Not really. After all, its hard to buy a Mind Series Art Spirit like a Compassion Art Spirit, and its not something you can get for 5 silver coins.


    At this point, Freya paused, looking at Ashe: If you, Demonic Saint, wish to return to jail, please let me escort you back.


    Dont think about it. If I wanted to surrender, Id take the bounty myself.


    Stingy.


    As the two of them ate and watched videos, Ashe suddenly said, Freya, I want to discuss something with you.


    Hmm?


    Can you wear clothes to sleep at night? Ashe suggested gently, After all, theres me, a man, here now


    Considering it was only the first night of staying at someone elses ce, Ashe had held back and didnt say anything the previous night. Even though he was sleeping on the floor, the thought of a nakedmb lying on the bed kept him awake half the night.


    Freya looked at him strangely, Why should I wear clothes because youre here?


    Dont you feel embarrassed to be seen naked by others?


    Not at all. If it werent against public order, Id even want to go to ss without clothes. Its been quite hot recently.


    Freya pulled her tank top and peered inside, then curiously asked, Or do you find me unattractive, and it makes you ufortable?


    No, youre very attractive, its just Ashe struggled to phrase it delicately, You stir certain feelings in me


    Oh! Freya seemed to understand, wiped her mouth with a tissue, and then pulled at her tank top, Then lets do it, once we do, your body will get used to it. Dont worry, Ill be gentle with you


    Why do your thoughts go there! Ashe pulled her tank top back down, Thats too casual!


    Thats a bit harsh, if it werent for the contract I signed with you, I wouldve filed aint with the Heresy Court. Freya seemed a bit upset, Im not just anyone. Look, youre the head of a cult, youre going to give me an Art Spirit in the future, and youre not bad looking, so I thought there wouldnt be a problem doing it with you. This is also part of the Bewitchers etiquette.


    Or are you scared to do it with me? Dont worry, Ill try to restrain myself and not kill you.


    At this point, Ashe finally realized something was off, What do you mean, restrain myself and not kill me?


    Dont you know? Our Bewitchers body fluids have a peculiar effect, reducing the male refractory period to zero. Plus we get quite carried away with the pleasure of mating, sometimes we identally kill our partners. Freya said, But Ill pay attention, as soon as youre satisfied once Ill stop immediately, because the contract doesnt allow me to harm you. Really, Ill be very, very careful.


    Freya was serious, because she had to be the Mud Workers at the Mud Cafe had all undergone special modifications, and could decide when to finish, with unlimited stamina, but normal people who hadnt undergone these modifications basically didnt have this ability, not even the strongest races.


    Even now, Freya would asionally hear news about Ogres, Beastmen, and even Elves being killed by Bewitchers. There were also Sacred Bloodlines who were drained until their blood was depleted and they fainted, only the innocent Moonshadow could resist the allure of the Bewitchers.


    In a sense, it was a good time for Bewitchers. Two hundred years ago, before the industrialization of biological modification technology, out of every ten Bewitchers, seven would be murderers, and the other three were just because they hadnt found the desated bodies yet.


    But due to the intervention of the Human Rights Association and the Race Rights Association, as long as the Bewitchers did not hide their race beforehand, it was not considered intentional homicide, but rather suicide on the part of the other party. The punishment for the Bewitcher was a few dozen hours ofmunity service.


    If earlier Ashe rejected out of some inexplicable virginity moral code, now it was survival instinct that took over. He very determinedly held onto the hem of Freyas undershirt, preventing her from undressing.


    Though dying in such a manner would be exhrating, Ashe had no ns to die in ecstasy.


    Freya pouted, I dont want to put on clothes after bathing, and you dont want your body to get used to me, so what should we do?


    Ill endure.


    Freya shrugged, continuing to eat, You really are a strange person.


    In my eyes, you all are the strange ones.


    Ashe sighed, I walked around near the university today, and saw three casinos, five or six candy stores, I even saw a group of female college students enter a ce called Honey Snow Tea Caf, and then put on extremely revealing clothes to solicit customers


    Freya wore a puzzled expression, Whats wrong with female college students working part-time? Did you patronize their business?


    Freya, Im a fugitive.


    No need to worry about that. You can wear a mask throughout, and you can pay with Silver Coins. The Tea Caf wouldnt pry into your matters, they would just think youre a customer with some unique fetishes.


    Freya said, If youre ufortable with holding back, go right after dinner. I can wash the dishes.


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 Chapter 144: Striving for a Better Life

    Chapter 144: Striving for a Better Life


    Ashe momentarily froze, then changed the topic: The Tea Caf is tolerable, after all, I enjoy watching beautiful women. But the problem is, why are there so many scantily d men posing provocatively in ces named Mud Caf? Its a real assault on my eyes. If I werent a fugitive, I would report them to the Heresy Court for ruining the cityscape. There should be legition specifically prohibiting this


    I advise you not to meddle, Freya warned. You may not enjoy it, but we do. So men can ogle beautiful women, but we women cant appreciate handsome men?


    Thats not the main issue, after all, its a traditional profession, albeit on arger scale, so its not entirely beyondprehension. Ashes face darkened. I wandered a bit further and saw some workers at a construction site.


    What about the workers?


    They over half of their bodies had be mechanical. Their legs turned into wheels, their hands into multi-toolboxes, and even their eyes had be mechanical If I hadnt seen them drinking and heard them chatting, I would have thought they were robots.


    They cant possibly be robots, Freya dismissed with a wave of her hand. Fully automated robots are expensive and require regr maintenance, hiring these mechanical workers is much cheaper. I recall you havent been in prison for long, mechanical workers have been popr in Caimon City for over a decade, howe you seem like youve never seen them before?


    Are there many such mechanical workers in Caimon City?


    Not necessarily on construction sites, their hands can changeponents, and with some simple training, they can take on jobs as assemblers, maintenance workers, and other technical professions.


    Freya took a big bite of her spicy L Fatty, her lips smeared with yolk sauce. Generally speaking, most ordinary people who have no hope of bing sorcerers would change their jobs to be mechanical workers, even clerks are no exception, the only difference is the degree of mechanization.


    Ashe was stunned. Non-technicalbor is also mechanized?


    Of course, not to mention limbs and spine, recing the organs with mechanical imnts has many advantages. Freya poked at her bun. The heart can be reced with a more powerful Fire Seed, the lungs with a Combustion Engine with stronger cirction, and the stomach with a Energy Pool with stronger digestion and absorption power


    Nowadays, mechanical modification is very cheap, a standard set of mechanical imnts can be paid off in three or four years with diligent work, but the effect is excellent: it allows you to have a longer endurance and be more energy efficient.


    In times of hardship, you can barely survive by just drinking water, while maintaining a high level of energy; in times of wealth, you can have more physical strength for enjoyment and experience more exciting sensory experiences.


    If it werent for the fact that mechanical imnts would reduce the efficiency of a sorcerers arcane energy absorption in the Virtual Realm, many sorcerers might choose mechanical imnts instead of the more expensive biological ones.


    Freya shrugged. But now for ordinary people, the Universal mechanical hand and the Energy Pool mechanical stomach are almost necessities, otherwise nopany would be willing to hire them. Most practical tools are designed with the mechanical hand as an interface, without a mechanical hand, you can hardly use any tool. Like the head chef in my college cafeteria, his mechanical hand can be connected to a spat, which can automatically heat up, cool down, and add seasonings. His steak is particrly delicious.


    And a mechanical stomach can eat a whole days food in the morning and then digest it slowly, not only increasing work time but also saving on food costslike our meal right now, it could be reced with 30 servings of feed.


    A mechanical worker only needs to eat one serving of feed to support a days work. In other words, weve eaten a months worth of a mechanical workers food.


    Ashe couldntprehend. What about the Human Rights Association? The Racial Rights Association? Dont they care?


    Freya furrowed her brows, What does it have to do with the Human Rights Association? No one is forcing them to undergo mechanical transformations. Theyre doing it voluntarily. The Human Rights Association cant limit their freedom to transform themselves mechanically, let alone stop them from pursuing a better life.


    Pursuing a better life.


    Ashe was stunned by what he heard.


    He remained silent for a while, waiting for Freya to finish her meal and wipe her mouth before he suddenly posed a question.


    If mechanical workers save so much money, where do they spend their wages?


    Freya counted on her fingers, Mud Cafe, Tea Caf, Casino, Candy Store, drama voting, clothes and jewelry, bio-modification, chip version updates, Screen of Knowledge updates, Rise of the Sorcerer, Virtual Realm Fantasy 14, World of Miracle


    After a day of surfing, Ashe knew that thest three were the most popr multiyer games in the Canopy. The Canopy is a world of information jointly constructed by all citizens, simr to the inte. Its called the Canopy because it has a high degree of concealment. Apart from the Heresy Court that manages the chips, ordinary people cant find others in the Canopy. Everyone in the information world is an invisible person behind the Canopy.


    Because of the anonymity, peoplesments in the Canopy are utterly unrestrained. In just one day, Ashe learned various types of racial, gender, educational, and upational slurs.


    Even though there are no mothers in the Blood Moon Realm, their proficiency in swearing still astounded Ashe, making him wish for a pair of eyes that had never seen such obscenities.


    There was even a moment when he thought that rules like speech restrictions in Shattered Lake Prison actually made sense, and that these unrestrained nderers should be caught and reformed.


    As for drama voting, its a special charging mode for TV dramas in the Blood Moon Realm. Simply put, after viewers watch the first half of a series, the producers will provide multiple ending choices. Viewers can vote (pay money) for their preferred ending, and then the producers will make it happen.


    For example, in theic Ashe read, Its Weird That I Said I Like Married Women, after it was adapted into a TV show, there might be more than ten different endings like the male lead lives a happy life with the female lead, the male lead lives a shameless life with both female leads, the two female leads together, the male lead and the second male lead, etc. After the audience watches the first half of the series, the ending is in their hands!


    As for clothes and jewelry, Ashe noticed today that even though Freyas house isnt big, she has three wardrobes filled with all sorts of beautiful clothes and essories. He thought it was a female hobby, but when he walked on the street, everyone was dressed luxuriously. Even the male counter staff in the grocery store dressed like wealthy young masters.


    And apart from the middle-aged and elderly, most young people are very beautiful, regardless of gender. Even the goblins are handsome, and some people even have starlight in their eyes  real starlight, the kind that twinkles in their pupils.


    Obviously, everyones appearance has been artistically processed by a medic. But Ashe couldnt say anything about that  his face was also sculpted by Medic 222.


    The reason for purchasing the Screen of Knowledge is that updating the chip version also costs money. Most people are born with a Miracle 1 chip, which is slow, has limited storage space, and can only be considered usable. Most adults update their chips to version 10 or higher. The newer the chip version, the stronger the functions, the better the experience, not to mention many applications require a certain version. Lower version chips cannot use higher version applications.


    The Screen of Knowledge is the ss disy screen they were looking at. Compared to the narrow light screen disyed by the chip, the Screen of Knowledge has higher resolution, bigger size, better colors,rger storage space, and stronger performance.


    Even though they were both information entertainment terminals, the Chip was equivalent to an imnted smartphone, while the Screen of Knowledge was equivalent to a personalputer.


    So, are you saying that most people, once they earn money, invest it in sex, gambling, drugs, body modifications, clothing and jewelry, and virtual entertainment?


    Thats right.


    Ashe opened his mouth as if to say something, but then closed it again.


    Only when he had eaten thest piece of milk egg cake did he could not help but ask, And what about you? Are you the same?


    Yes, but I have no interest in gambling or drugs, and since Im aiming to be a Sorcerer in the future, I cant do any biological modifications at the moment.


    Are you happy then?


    Freya gave him a strange look.


    Very happy.


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 Chapter 145: Half an Hour

    Chapter 145: Half an Hour


    Freya was quite conscientious, helping Ashe wash the dishes.


    After finishing, Freya nced at the Screen of Knowledge, Are you going to use the Screen of Knowledge tonight?


    Yeah, I want to look up some information.


    Cant you connect your Chip to the Canopy for that?


    I got rid of the chip in the back of my neck when I escaped.


    Freya was a little surprised, Where will you live then? Without a chip to register, you cant even rent a house Dont tell me you n to live with me forever!?


    The contract clearly states that I can stay here for up to seven days. Ashe replied, annoyed, After seven days, Ill find somewhere else to sleep, even if its under a bridge.


    As long as you give me the Compassion Art Spirit ording to the contract, I dont mind letting you stay for a few more days If youre willing to cook every day, I can waive your rent.


    Freya paused, I need to use the Screen of Knowledge after I take a shower, probably for about half an hour.


    No problem, I also need to shower, so I can give you that time.


    Ashe continued to browse on the Canopy, while Freya began to write her social studies homework. Social studies is not a magic major, but all subjects for the City Public Examination are from social studies. Basically, if you want to be a government operator in the future, you need to have a silver degree in social sciences.


    The speech by Fernand Snow at the Blood Moon Tribunalst night has already made the rounds. Even Freya, who didnt watch it, was forced to watch it in ss. Therefore, the professors assignment was Discuss the Pros and Cons of Socialized Rearing and the Family System. It was said that Socialized Rearing might be apulsory subject in the City Public Examination in theing years and is a key knowledge point that must be mastered.


    The assignment was not difficult. As long as you follow the writing idea that Socialized Rearing crushes the Family System, you can pass. If you want to score high, you need to think more and write about the advantages currently shown by society that are not written in the book.


    Considering the professors intention Fernand Snows speech Blood Moon Dual Race


    Freya quickly had an idea.


    The Family System will cause more factional struggles within the Blood Moon Dual Race. Those who sessfully transform into Blood Moon Descendants will use their power to help their kin who are still of the original race to seize illegal benefits, robbing other original races of their rightful resources It will lead to ipetent people who originally had no qualification to join the Blood Moon Dual Race bing Blood Moon Kin through nepotism and other unwritten rules, reducing the average quality of the Blood Moon Kin


    If a family is all part of the Blood Moon Dual Race, they will form an unbreakable interest group, which is not conducive to the leadership of the research institute and the church It will pollute the rule of the Government Affairs Hall


    Kinship bonds are a weakening poison and a precursor to internal strife for the Blood Moon Dual Race


    The Blood Moon Dual Race is the basis for the development and growth of the Blood Moon Realm. We cannot allow backward systems to tarnish the purity of the Blood Moon Kin


    Since there were no other tables, Freya also sat next to Ashe to do her homework.


    Fortunately, the desk wasrge enough. Freya did her homework on the left, and Ashe surfed the on the right. Except for sitting a little close to each other, they could work without interfering with each other The left side of the desk was originally filled with skincare products, lubrication, snacks, tissues, cotton swabs, and all sorts of clutter, but it was now all tidied up.


    By the way, because Freya couldnt afford to hire a cleaner, her house was basically in a just enough to sleep state. Underwear was only washed when there was no more to wear, trash was only thrown away when it piled up, and the corridor was filled with a maze of clutter that only allowed one person to pass. Thendlord even said she was very normal.


    Now, looking at it, Freya realized that her house waspletely transformed. Clothes had been washed, trash had been thrown away, clutter had been sorted and ced in the corner, she even wondered, Is this really my house?


    Did you clean up during the day?


    Ashe hesitated for a moment, but still nodded heavily: Well, to be honest, the hygienic conditions here are worse than the toilets in prison. Since Im idle, I might as well do some cleaning. Consider it as paying you rent.


    Ashe said: By the way, I took your clothes to wash. You dont mind, do you? After all, the weather has been kinda hottely, and theres no air conditioning here. In such a remarkable experimental environment, those piled clothes have produced a very peculiar smell. Its bearable at night, but during the day, I really cant stand it


    Freyas face turned red up to her ears, and she shyly said: Really? I didnt notice any smell I dont mind, thank you.


    Thats good. I was afraid that you would call me a pervert when you got back, so I decided to cook for you to win you over.


    Why would I call you that? Rest assured, from now on, you can wash all my clothes!


    Well, thats not necessary. But can you wash your clothes every day?


    No, Im used to piling up a bunch of dirty clothes and washing them all together. Just like you cant ask me to put on clothes right after taking a bath, you cant change myundry habits either.


    Tsk, youre so pretty, howe your hygiene habits are so poor


    What does being pretty or not have to do with this? Its a waste of time to clean the room and doundry every day.


    After a satisfying meal, Xiao Xian jumped onto the table and curled up into a ball of fluff, seemingly falling asleep to their conversation.


    With their intermittent chit-chat, Freya quickly finished her social studies homework. Seeing that it was about time, she naturally took off all her clothes and threw them on the chair, humming a tune as she walked into the bathroom.


    Ashe nced at the undergarments on the chair, the sound of water flowing in the bathroom filling his ears. His gaze couldnt move away from thece underwear. It took all his effort to turn his gaze away, then he summoned the Substitute Spirit, directing the Substitute to put these clothes in theundry basket on the balcony  a young mans body cant stand such stimting sights!


    Xiao Xian instantly perked up, chasing after the Substitute to y.


    On the other side, Freya in the bathroom also felt something was off. As a Bewitcher, she was highly sensitive to emotional states, and she could clearly sense an odd emotion welling up inside her.


    She didnt know how to describe this feeling, it was an experience she hadnt had in her eighteen years of life. Standing under the shower, letting the water wash over her pale skin, Freya quickly realized the source of this strange emotion  who else could it be but the Demonic Saint who had suddenly barged into her life?


    Was she scared? A little.


    Did she like him? It seemed so.


    Did she hate him?


    Feeling as if her stomach was being wrung like a towel, Freya found it hard to breathe from the pain  yes, she hated Ashe. She couldnt articte why, but she suddenly found this man repulsive.


    So, did she want to distance herself from him?


    Freya stood silently under the water, leaning against the wall for a while, then suddenlyughed: How can there be such contradictory feelings It must be due to physical reasons, right? Yes, it must be physical reasons, after all, Ashe interrupted mest night.


    She quickly let go of the matter, dried herself off, wrapped her hair in a towel, and as soon as she went out to blow-dry her hair, she saw Ashe dive into the bathroom and close the door in one smooth motion, so fast it was like he used a spirit. Freya didnt even get a clear look at him.


    Youre in such a rush to take a shower? If you had said so earlier, I would have let you go first. Freya muttered to herself, then sat in front of the Screen of Knowledge, starting her nightly routine tasks.


    After a while in the bathroom, Ashe gradually heard a soul-consuming moan.


    At first, he thought the apartments soundproofing must be poor, perhaps another couple in a different room were trying to earn some Fertility Fund. But when he turned off the faucet tother up with shower gel, the absence of the waters noise made the low moan suddenly much clearer.


    This was far more striking than any lingerie.


    Ashe silently turned the faucet back on, cranking it to the maximum flow rate. Cold water!


    However, the melodious voice, like feathers of a goose, tickled in Ashes ear. Even the noise of the water couldnt help. On the contrary, it seemed to add a kind of filter effect, expanding his imagination.


    A thought suddenly sprang up in his mind.


    Is it really going to take half an hour?


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 Chapter 146: Who Falls in Love Seriously?

    Chapter 146: Who Falls in Love Seriously?


    Freya was awakened by the aroma of food.


    Today was April 29th, her third day of harboring an escaped convict, and also a day she could sleep in due to a morning without sses.


    The normal sleep duration for mature Bewitchers was 12 hours, but such a schedule was apparently notpatible with the fast-paced urban life. Therefore, on school days, Freya would sleep for six hours and then take a stimnt. If necessary, she could sleep for only four hours and take two stimnts.


    However, stimnts could build up resistance, once the dosage was increased, it would be hard to reduce. Thus, Freya cautiously maintained a rhythm of one pill a day, preferring to yawn than to take a second one.


    It wasnt that she feared addiction, but rather that the stimnts were expensive  the stuff was even pricier than Moon Sugar.


    One could also argue the opposite, that Moon Sugar was too cheap.


    That was how it was in the Blood Moon, entertainment was always cheap, anything that could be used for work and making money was definitely expensive.


    Like how Ogres could use Moon Sugar to aid in painting, that belonged to the category of exploiting racial talents, something to be envious of.


    After greeting the Demonic Saint, Freya, yawning, headed to the bathroom. She put on a non-slip hairband, took a shower, washed her face, brushed her teeth, groomed, and since she was a naturally beautiful Bewitcher, plus Freya didnt need to charm anyone currently, and she was the one paying, she only needed to carry out simple skincare, taking less than half an hour in total.


    Before she went out, she thought about it and decided to give Ashe some face, she would get dressed before she left. After all, it was time for ss and not sleep, she had no reason to be naked.


    Ashe had prepared the meal and was watching a video while eating. Freya moved closer to take a look but lost interest soon after  it was Analysis of the Strengths and Weaknesses of Various Magical Factions (Part 1).


    Id suggest you watch someedy videos instead, although this video is also pretty funny.


    Ashe was somewhat surprised: Why? I just wanted to get a basic understanding of the knowledge of other factions


    Understanding them like this will only lead you to form biased preconceptions. Freya said, Can you summarize yourself, who has existed for decades, in one sentence? Do you think a few minutes of introduction can summarize a magical faction that has existed for hundreds or even thousands of years?


    Watching such videos will only make you think that Earth Art is all about moving dirt, lightning spells go bilibili, sword art requires closebat, illusion series has no lethality, prophecy series are all frail schrs, and Mind Series can be countered just by plugging your ears  youd be better off knowing nothing, at least you would be more cautious.


    If you want to understand a magical faction, you should at least read an introductory book, or listen to a lecture by a professional professor. Videos like this are not aimed at sorcerers, but at non-sorcerer audiences  these audiences just want to get a sense of superiority that so magical factions arent that mysterious or useful after all.


    Youd be better off watching the videos in the new folder, at least theyre harmless, and they can even stimte your appetite.


    Ashe was taken aback: Really? Can they actually stimte appetite?


    Youre actually doubting the taste of a Bewitcher, Ill pick one for you right now that will definitely increase your appetite


    No need, no need, Ill change the video. Ashe hurriedly refused the Bewitchers rmendation, quickly picking from the video canopy: Hmm, lets watch this Why is it so Expensive? food exploration video, its perfect as were eating Damn, its a Tea Cafe exploration video!?


    Wait wait, lets just watch this.


    Do you eat so indiscriminately?


    Technically, I shouldnt. Freya shrugged, But its also possible that I just havent met a woman that can make my heart flutter Tsk, you dont like Tea Cafe , how about a Mud Cafe exploration video?


    Lets just watch this one. Ashe gave in.


    And to tell the truth, the food seemed to taste even better.


    Ashe looked around the single room and asked, Have you been living alone ever since you left the Foster Home for college?


    Freya, who was enjoying her seafood L Fatty, looked at Ashe with a puzzled expression, Im not alone. What else could I be? A cat?


    She smiled at Xiao Xian, the Fold-ear Cat, scratching under its chin. Xiao Xian appeared to be in bliss, almost drooling.


    Have you ever considered sharing a t with someone else? Ashe asked. Living with another person could be more economical. It could reduce living expenses and improve quality of life


    Not at all. Freya shook her head. I get rental subsidies living alone, plus student subsidies, which cover about 80% of my rent. With rent so cheap, why would I want to share a t?


    But wouldnt sharing a t with someone else be even cheaper?


    Im not struggling on my own, so why do I have to live with someone else? Freya tilted her head. I had a private room in the Foster Home too. Why should I crowd myself with others after moving out?


    But if theres someone else, you can help each other in daily life. For instance, if you fall and injure yourself


    I can use a chip to notify the hospital to send an ambnce.


    You two can cook at home instead of eating out


    Actually, I spend less money eating in the school cafeteria than you do buying ingredients. Freya grumbled. If I cook, I have to wash dishes and this apartment doesnte with a dishwasher


    Ashe couldnt help but say, But if you have that kind of need, wouldnt it be more convenient to live with a lover?


    Ashe had almost scrubbed himself rawst night waiting for the low moaning to stop. He had thought that enduring it for one night would be the end of it. However, he found out afterwards that Freya needed to satisfy her needs every night, usually three times, with the duration varying from 15 to 45 minutes depending on the material used, her mood, the amount of homework, and other factors.


    Freya looked at Ashe with big puzzled eyes.


    Leaving aside the fact that Im a Bewitcher, what does satisfying my needs have to do with being in love? Have you ever been in a rtionship?


    Although Ashe wanted to be tough, he felt it was safer to be honest in front of Freya, who was an experienced and top-tier driver, while he himself only had arge vehicle license but no driving experience.


    No.


    Freyas response shocked Ashe. Neither have I. Who in their right mind would be in a rtionship?


    Ashe asked in confusion, Why? With your appearance, wouldnt it be easy to attract the opposite sex? Or are they afraid of you because of your Bewitcher constitution?


    Freya shook her head. No, Im just curious as to why you think I should be in a rtionship. Do you Four Pirs Religion followers still harbor such unrealistic dreams?


    How is being in a rtionship unrealistic? Ashe felt perplexed. You were enjoying the romanticedy Sorcerer 100% on the Screen of Knowledgest night, and you seemed to have a great time?


    Freya became annoyed. Then tell me, whats the nature of the love in Sorcerer 100%?


    Welltruly loving each other, always thinking about each other, willing to protect the other at the risk of ones own life, willing to amodate the other in daily life


    Exactly!


    What do you mean exactly?


    How can such love exist in reality, outside of movies and TV shows? Freya spread her hands. Who would be willing to amodate others, consider others, or even risk their lives for others nowadays? At least I wouldnt.


    She paused, I can feel emotions like love, liking, and infatuation. For instance, I think youre quite good, and Im willing to meet with you once or twice, or even on a regr basis. However, if you want to go further with me, such as living together, fully participating in my daily life or future ns, I cant ept that.


    When ites to love, most college students understand that theres no such pure rtionship in reality. On the contrary, those with lower education believe in the plots from TV shows and movies, wishfully thinking that true love exists in this worldthere are particrly many such fools in the Curtain Game. The end result is often being deceived of their money. The particrly foolish ones even end up in debt, but whats on the other side of the curtain is not a beauty or a handsome guy, but an Orc Uncle and a Goblin Fat Woman.


    Ashe couldnt understand, But isnt a romantic rtionship very normal? In reality, you can always find someone you can trust, right? Cant you start from being good friends and gradually develop into lovers?


    Freya chuckled, unable to resist reaching out to pat the Demonic Saints head. She said with a grin, Silly boy, people change. He may be trustworthy now, but tomorrow he might be stupid due to Moon Sugar, and the day after he may have an adventure in the Virtual Realm and start to despise me.


    Didnt the Foster Home teach you not to trust strangers, not to have expectations of strangers?


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 Chapter 147: We’re All the Same

    Chapter 147: We��re All the Same


    Ashe brushed her hand aside, his expression somewhat ufortable.


    But if youre not in a rtionship and dont have a family, doesnt that mean youll always be alone?


    Weve always been Oh, right!


    Freya suddenly remembered something, and started furiously writing in her notebook, The benefits of Socialized Rearing also include this cultivating independence from a young age getting used to singlebat having an advantage in exploring the Virtual Realm Every citizen of the Blood Moon Realm is a qualified reserve Sorcerer Well, I cant even say that the professor didnt give me a perfect score this time!


    As Freya wrote, Ashe asked, Dont you want to have a perfect union with a lover, or share your joys and stresses with family, or have someone who cares about you?


    Why are you asking so many strange questions Youre not thinking about bing my lover and living with me, are you?!


    Ive told you, Ill be leaving after staying here for at most seven days.


    Freya shrugged and replied, I dont need a lover, I just need to spend some money at Mud Cafe to have a perfect union; if I want to share my joy, I can boast about my achievements in the Canopy to my ssmates, and if I want to vent my stress, I should go see a therapist; as for care, isnt that another way of saying investment? If someone cares about me, it means they want to gain greater benefits from me.


    If I have a lot of value, everyone will care about me; if I have no value, no one will care about me, even my lover would leave. This is a very simple human nature.


    Ashe softly replied, But human nature isnt just about weighing benefits, it also includes truth, kindness, and beauty.


    But why should I put my hopes in others, rather than invest all my resources in myself? Freyaughed, I can go to a restaurant when Im hungry, go to Mud Cafe when I need it, hire a cleaner when my room is dirty, go to a therapist when Im under pressure  bing a therapist is actually one of my future career options  its the 17th century, why gamble on human nature when you can satisfy your needs with money?


    Even my gambling-loving friend Ad wouldnt dare to participate in this kind of gamble where the other party holds all the cards. Entering into an intimate rtionship is just too risky.


    But dont you feel lonely?


    Freya put thest period on her assignment, put it back in her bag, and turned to look at Ashe.


    Were all the same, she said.


    Then she picked up Xiao Xian and affectionately rubbed her face against his. Xiao Xian, on the other hand, disdainfully pushed her away with his paw, And I have Xiao Xian, how could I be lonely?


    Ashe suddenly realized, looking into the pure and happy eyes of the Bewitcher, that Fernand Snow, the Ogre mayor, had not actually touched the core of the Blood Moon Realm.


    Because he too was an orphan, he had no family, he could not love.


    Just as Freya didnt realize the sour smell of her clothes, most people living in the Blood Moon Realm didnt realize that they had lost the ability to love.


    How could someone who had never seen the sun know the warmth of sunlight? How could someone who had never experienced family care believe in selfless feelings?


    Perhaps they believe that there is selfless love in this world, they also long for this love, but they believe more firmly that such love will not befall them.


    Just as Fernand Snow believed that the Blood Moon Realm did not deserve a savior, they also believed that they did not deserve to embrace love.


    The Ogre thought that the Blood Moon sowed seeds of suspicion and erected walls of prejudice to iste everyone. But in reality, the Blood Moon was draining the seeds of love from everyones hearts through education, causing everyone to resist entering into intimate rtionships. Prejudice and suspicion were merely the foul stench resulting from the decay and erosion of this loveless soil.


    Ashe suddenly remembered Langna  could this werewolf be considered a traitor to Moonshadow because his desire for love was too strong?


    Seeing that Ashe had been silent for a long time, Freya couldnt help but ask, Whats wrong?


    Ashe came back to his senses and smiled, Nothing, I was just thinking about where I could go to make some money.


    If you are willing to show up, I suggest you work part-time at Mud Cafe. With your looks, while you may not be the top-tier Mud Worker, youre still middle-to-lower tier, and there should be quite a few customers who would choose you. Why dont I introduce you to a Mud Cafe? Even if you dont want to do it for long, you can try it out. Many decent-looking men work as Mud Workers for a night to gauge their market positioning.


    Thanks, but Im not skilled enough to earn that money.


    Being a beginner can also be a good selling point. Many wealthy women especially like virgins, and if you want to practice, I can apany you


    Dont you have a ss at 2 PM? Its already 1:50 now.


    Freya nced at the time and hurriedly packed her bag, Oh no, almost forgot the time. This bowl and te


    Ill wash them, Ashe said, Are youing back for dinner tonight?


    Here it came again.


    Freya felt that strange emotion welling up again.


    It had nothing to do with lust, nothing to do with greed. It made Freya both dislike and like Ashe, made her want to stay away from and get close to him.


    Could it be a curse from the Four Pirs Religion? Or was it the pollution aura unconsciously emitted by the Demonic Saint?


    Despite the thoughts in her mind, she replied, Hmm.


    Any particr dish youd like?


    Red me L Fatty Fish Roe Rice Bowl, is that okay?


    No problem. Ashe waved his hand, Be careful on the road.


    That strange feeling in her heart grew stronger, and Freya nodded hurriedly, put down Xiao Xian, and rushed out of the house.


    Ashe turned off the shop scouting video and clicked on Killing Virtual Realm Creatures with Hands: shing Fish Dragon Edition. After watching the video, he got dressed, put on his mask, and summoned his Substitute.


    Wash the dishes, clean up, and if you have extra time, y with the cat. If anything unexpected happens, just dispel the Substitute, got it?


    The Substitute nodded.


    Ashe opened a spreadsheet titled 4.29 Full School Timetable on the Screen of Knowledge. This was a file that could only be downloaded from the Canopy within Caimon Comprehensive University, but coincidentally, Freya was also a student there.


    He didnt just randomly choose a ce to stay, he hade prepared.


    His gazended on a line in the timetable.


    16:00~18:00, Ancient Ritual Faction, Sylin Karl, ssroom 108.


    After confirming the target, Ashe was ready to go out, but saw Xiao Xian sitting on the floor like a lump, listless and spiritless.


    An idea hit Ashe and he cast a Compassion Art Spirit towards Xiao Xian, immediately receiving a wave of pain feedback.


    Despite the pain and difort, it didnt seem unhappy, its mood was as calm as if it had grown ustomed to living with pain. It tilted its head at the Compassion Art Spirit in Ashes hand, appearing somewhat curious.


    Congenital chondrodyssia, huh Ashe gently stroked Xiao Xians head, Screened from birth, only those who meet aesthetic standards and have utilitarian value are lucky enough to survive, then they live in cages and undergo castration and sterilization. After leaving the cage, they are used asmodities, their value squeezed dry


    Because we have apanied pain since childhood, we dont regard it as misfortune, but as an inevitable fate; because everyone experiences the same, we dont perceive it as suffering, thus there are no worries.


    He reached out and scratched the chin of the Fold-ear Cat. Xiao Xian revealed a contented and naive smile.


    Being an Observer is really difficult.


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 Chapter 148: Professor Sylin and the Shelf Life

    Chapter 148: Professor Sylin and the Shelf Life


    Caimon Comprehensive University, Tiered ssroom 108.


    If you could have ten times the arcane energy, but the price was to be pursued by an Immortal Snail forever, would you agree? Raise your hand if you would.


    This strange question instantly turned the entire ssroom into a sea of joy. An Elven Student in the front row could not help butugh. Raising his hand, he said, Professor, you should ask who wouldnt!


    Standing on the podium was an outstanding Elven Professor, with shoulder-length ck hair, sapphire-like blue eyes, fair skin, crystal-clear thin lips, a thin face, and a tall figure. He wore a dark gray coat and white gloves on both hands.


    In response to the students answer, he showed a light smile at the corner of his mouth, What if its eight times the arcane energy, and the pursuer is a Red Wolf? Hmm, it seems you are not that afraid of the mostmon predator in the natural forest.


    What if its five times the arcane energy, and the pursuer is a juvenile shing Fish Dragon?


    Now everyone was a bit hesitant the juvenile shing Fish Dragon could be considered a Silver yer. There was a joke: The first time a Sorcerer faces the Sea of Knowledge, he surrenders; the second time, even with experience, facing a fast, fierce, and passionate shing Fish Dragon, he still surrenders.


    Of course, since this joke was considered discriminatory against both men and women, you would hardly hear it in reality. Only in the Canopy could you see such a joke with hidden meaning.


    But basically, everyone raised their hands, and the Elven Professor nodded, What if its three times the arcane energy, and the pursuer is a standard Blood Mad Hunter?


    Half of the people who raised their hands put them down. Blood Mad Hunters were divided into apprentice hunters, official hunters, and hunter captains, corresponding to one-wing, two-wing, and three-wing respectively. Standard Blood Mad Hunters were almost all two-wing levelbat Sorcerers. Moreover, two-wing Sorcerers who want to be Blood Mad Hunters need to undergo strict assessment and training. A regr two-wing Sorcerer would almost certainly not be a match for a Blood Mad Hunter.


    What if its only an increase of one times the arcane energy, but you are forever pursued by a Titan Executioner-level creature from the Virtual Realm?


    Everyone put down their hands, and a displeased student couldnt help but say, Professor, if Im willing, can you give it to me?


    Im certainly not that generous. The Elven Professorughed, But the Virtual Realm can.


    The reward is an additional one times the arcane energy, and the price is to be forever pursued by an immortal and powerful creature from the Virtual Realm. This kind of blessing is verymon for the Virtual Realm. As long as youre willing to pray to the Virtual Realm, it will genuinely fulfill your wish.


    Youve all signed the student loan contract, right? Both parties of the contract pray to the Virtual Realm as a notary, allowing the Virtual Realm to supervise the implementation of the contract. Whoever vites the contract will be sanctioned by the Virtual Realm this is the mostmon kind of blessing!


    A student raised his hand and asked, But almost everyone can sign a contract for any reason. Is the Virtual Realm really that easy to negotiate with?


    The Elven Professorughed, Of course it is, because the ones who need to abide by the contract are you, and the ones who pay the price for breach of contract are also you. In this process, you dont get any extra benefits, but rather need to keep paying. The Virtual Realm is always generous with this kind of blessing that harms others without benefiting itself of course, this is because of the long-term development of the insurance industry. It is said that a long time ago, signing a contract was a very troublesome thing.


    But if you dare to ask the Virtual Realm for a blessing that benefits yourself, the Virtual Realm will show a face more ferocious than a bank and teeth greedier than a loan shark. For any Sorcerer who tries to take a shortcut, the Virtual Realm will give the strictest test.


    But the reward and test are not fixed mechanisms. If a Sorcerer knows the correct use of the power of the Virtual Realm, he can greatly increase the reward amount and greatly reduce the difficulty of the test.


    Praying for, and adjusting blessings, this is the power of the Ritual Faction.


    The elven professor surveyed the ssroom, To amplify the arcane energy from a reward by ten-fold, to reduce a pursuer from a Titan Executioner to a snail, these are not the ravings of a fool, but real existing Miracles.


    Of course, praying for a blessing is not as simple as shouting in the Virtual Realm and immediately receiving a response. Even the Heresy Courts operator system may not provide such a level of service. In fact, the ritual of praying for blessings is veryplex. It not only requires various spirits as materials but also tests the sorcerers proficiency in various spell factions. Therefore, its a faction with a lot of prerequisites


    Sitting in the back row, Ad was holding her face, her eyes glued to the elf on the podium.


    Professor Sylin is really handsome


    Huh? Freya looked at Ad in surprise. I thought you would exim something like Is there a reward that can increase my luck, and the test is just loss of fertility.


    No way, I always listen carefully to Professor Sylins sses! Ad said indignantly. Of course, if there is such a blessing, I wouldnt mind!


    At this time, the lecture hall was full of people, not only in the aisles, but even many people were leaning on the windows. Everyone came to listen to Professor Sylins ss. Professor Sylin can be said to be one of the most popr professors at Caimon Comprehensive University. His academic achievements, appearance, and teaching skills are all top-notch. Unfortunately, due to his external duties as a councilman, he stopped being a resident professor a few years ago, and only asionallyes to school to give one or two lectures.


    Moreover, the most popr point about Professor Sylin is  his ss is free! No tuition is required, anyone can audit, and only a fool would miss a free lecture by a two-wing sorcerer like this.


    If it werent for Ad helping Freya to secure a spot, she would have to lean on the window to listen to the lecture.


    However, sorcerers who can significantly leverage the power of the Virtual Realm are ultimately few. For example, even a legendary four-wing sorcerer would have to do their best to achieve the ten-fold amplification I just mentioned. Therefore, ordinary Ritual Faction sorcerers prefer to pair blessings through conflict.


    Suppose I have two blessings now, the first ones price is I can never taste the vor of food, and the second ones price is I can taste the vor of everything in my sight, what do you think will happen?


    The students looked at each other, Ad stood up and answered, The prices of the two blessings take effect at the same time, but the sorcerer can taste the food by looking at it when eating, which means the second price to some extent weakens or even suppresses the first price.


    Thats right, this is the mystery of conflict, using different prices to conflict with each other to reduce the negative impact of the price. Professor Sylin nodded approvingly, Of course, not all blessings can achieve such clever cooperation, a moremon pairing is to gather multiple prices that will act on the same ce.


    Suppose I have two blessings, the first price is to make me lose my vision, and the second price is to Turning the world in my vision into a quagmire of flesh and blood, then after I pray for these two blessings, although I will still lose my vision, I dont have to bear the second price, its like taking advantage of the Virtual Realm.


    A student asked, If I have ten blessings, and all the prices are rted to the eyes, then do I only need to give up my eyes to gain the benefits of ten blessings?


    Thats the idea, Sylinughed. Through clever pairing, praying, adjusting, and conflict, Ritual Faction sorcerers can get the most out of the Virtual Realm at the least cost.


    Another student was puzzled, If the Ritual Faction is so powerful, why is it gradually declining now?


    Professor Sylin said, There are two reasons. The first one is as I mentioned, the entry barrier for the Ritual Faction is too high. One must master multiple silver factions to perform rituals, so the minimum threshold for a ritual sorcerer is Two-Winged Gold.


    Such high-threshold factions of magic are often difficult to pass on and may vanish into history once an unexpected break urs. Only when a sorcerer receives a legacy from the Virtual Realm and improves it can these treasures of the past shine again.


    The second reason is that the Ritual Faction is too dangerous.


    A studentughed, Is there a non-dangerous magic faction? The Water Art Faction, which excels in healing, can also kill people subtly.


    Professor Sylin shook his head, As I just said, the Virtual Realm is stingy in granting benefits, but it is quite lenient towards harming others without benefiting oneself. In some taboo rituals, a Two-Winged Gold sorcerer can offer himself as a sacrifice to summon a destructive stormparable to the full strike of a Four-Winged sorcerer!


    We sorcerers can be greedy, can take risks, and can be ruthless, but we must survive and cherish life no matter what. The Ritual Faction goes against this principle. Coupled with the fact that many gifts can cause physical and mental disabilities, making sorcerers radical, violent, and disdainful of life, it naturally wont spread.


    Even if you learn about the Ritual Faction in the Virtual Realm, theres no way around it, but in reality, any wise sorcerer would ban the spread of the Ritual Faction. This is not only for social stability, but also because the Ritual Faction tends to produce mad sorcerers. Apart from chaotic evil organizations, the Ritual Faction has no benefit to any stable organization.


    I am holding this lecture to rify the harm of the Ritual Faction. If you encounter the legacy of the Ritual Faction in the Virtual Realm in the future, remember not to let greed cloud your judgment. Handle this dangerous knowledge cautiously.


    At this point, a masked student raised his hand and said, Would there be people in the Four Pirs God Cult who master the Ritual Faction? Could the natural disasters that happened before possibly be the evil deeds of the Four Pirs God Cult members?


    The Four Pirs God Cult has beenpletely sealed off by the Heresy Court, and all members, including the cult leader, have been apprehended. You should pay more attention to the news. Professor Sylin said coldly, Your premise is invalid.


    Also, why are you wearing a mask in ss? Can you take it off, please?


    Everyone turned to look, finding that the student who asked the question was wearing a crow mask, a medic model, as though role-ying. Freya also noticed this and suddenly recalled that the cult leader seemed to have a simr mask.


    Could it be


    At this moment, the student took off the crow mask, revealing an apologetic face. Im sorry, Professor, I really like this mask, so


    Professor Sylin stared at the student, then covered his eyes with his gloved right hand. After a moment, he put it down, Dont wear masks in ss. It distracts me.


    In the midst ofughter, Freya keenly noticed that someone was leaving the room. He was wearing a backpack, a hoodie, and a mask as he walked through the ssroom. No one seemed to notice him except for Freya. No one else was looking at him.


    Although she couldnt see his face, based on his body shape and clothing, Freya was sure it was Ashe.


    What was he doing here?


    After ss, when she returned to the apartment, Freya opened the door and was greeted by a delicious aroma.


    Wee back, dinner is ready.


    Im back.


    Once Ashe had set the table, Freya couldnt wait to ask, Did you go to Professor Sylins ss this afternoon?


    Yeah, did you see me?


    Why did you suddenlye to ss?


    Yes, there are two reasons


    Ashe picked up Xiao Xian, who was eating cat food: The first reason is to go to the university clinic to get Xiao Xian treated.


    Freya paused: Is Xiao Xian sick?


    Yes, it has congenital chondrodyssia. I noticed it sitting listlessly on the ground this afternoon, so I figured it wasnt feeling well and took it to the Medic. The Medic said if we wanted to alleviate its pain, we essentially would have to get it treated every month.


    Freya held the Fold-ear Cat in her arms with a distressed look: Im sorry, Xiao Xian, I didnt know Thank you.


    Thats good, I was afraid you might be upset with me.


    Why would I be upset with you?


    If Xiao Xian hadnt received treatment, it wouldnt know that pain could be dispelled and that being healthy feels so good. It might have a hard time dealing with pain in the future, so youll need to take it for treatment every month.


    As Ashe was browsing videos to watch while eating, he said: I was afraid you might think Im causing you trouble.


    What trouble?


    Isnt it troublesome to take Xiao Xian to the vet every month?


    No way! Freya shook her head: How could I find that troublesome? Xiao Xian shouldnt have to suffer like this in the first ce. You saved it from its illness, I cant thank you enough.


    Ashe nced at her: Thats good I was actually quite surprised. You dont ept any intimate rtionships, but you can devote yourself wholeheartedly and unselfishly to a cat.


    Its not the same, Freya grumbled: People arent as cute as cats, and Xiao Xian wont leave me. Its a friend with no expiration date.


    Asheughed: Do you consider the expiration date when making friends?


    Of course! Freya dered confidently: If the expiration date is only a few hours, like a Mud Worker, then you can be polite and act cute like a Bewitcher for a few hours. If the expiration date is a week to a few months, then you can hang out during the holidays to bond, and chat about hobbies at other times. If the expiration date is a few years, then you need to discuss political views as soon as possible to quickly judge whether they are the type for a deep friendship. If theres a fundamental conflict in views, then you need to immediately draw a clear line and only interact for work purposes.


    What conditions must be met for you to feel that someones expiration date is a lifetime?


    Freya paused, lowered her head, thought for a while, and hesitantly lifted the Fold-ear Cats paw: At least they should be as cute as Xiao Xian, right?


    Xiao Xian was gasping for breath in Freyas embrace, and it pushed away the Bewitchers attack with its paw. Freya let it go and asked: Taking Xiao Xian to the vet was the first reason, whats the second?


    I was passing by the school, so I just stopped by to see how you teach. Ashe casuallymented: Huh? The first episode of Its Weird That I Said I Like Married Women is out? Lets watch this.


    I actually wanted to continue watching Tea and Coffee Shop Exploration Freya poked at the Red me Fatty Fish Roe Rice Bowl: Whats so interesting about my ss?


    Theres nothing interesting. Ashe twirled his noodles with a fork: So I left after a nce.


    What nonsense. Freya muttered, watching the Screen of Knowledge and eating the Red me Fatty Fish Roe Rice Bowl.


    But her mind wasnt on the food, nor the video.


    For some reason, the strange emotion in her heart was getting stronger, and she even felt a bit happy.


    Speaking of which, whats the expiration date of this Cult Leader


    She forced herself not to think about it.


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 Chapter 149: Fear

    Chapter 149: Fear


    Why are you studying and doing homework again tonight?


    Isnt that what being a college student is about? Ive paid so much in tuition and even took out student loans. If I dont study diligently, how will I ever get my moneys worth?


    Wow, thats impressive. Keep it up.


    Wait, I remember the warrant mentioned you went to college too! How about you help me with my homework?


    Werent you just now eager to study, insisting on sticking to the right path and studying diligently?


    But some assignments are meaningless, and I only study them because I have to for the credits. Can you help me out, please?


    Stop, dont lean in so close. Its hot, Ill start sweating. Let me see (takes a quick nce) Ah, I see.


    So, are you willing to help?


    Im willing to provide any support other than helping.


    What does that mean?


    It means I dont know how to do it either.


    But didnt you already graduate? You must have done these kinds of assignments too!


    How can a person remember the taste of every piece of bread theyve ever eaten? How should I remember how Ipleted these assignments back then?


    Ugh, worthless grey college student.


    If you want to be a legendary golden college student, then do your homework. For your sake, Im willing to endure this humiliation and serve as a negative example to spur you on.


    Youre shameless.


    Ashe, were out of shampoo, can you get a new bottle from the bottom shelf?


    Strange, you actually know you cant just walk out and get it.


    I havent finished my shower, and Im toozy to dry myself. If I walk out all wet, Ill get the floor wet. I have that muchmon sense.


    Youre so considerate, Im touched. I hope you can acquire moremon sense like how you shouldnt expose half your body when grabbing something from the bathroom!


    Youre so annoying.


    Ah, Ashe, have you finished your shower? You took even longer than me, water isnt cheap


    Whose fault do you think that is.


    Why are you acting as if I forced you to take so long Oh, oh, I get it! My, Im not even shy, why are you?


    What?


    If you want to take care of it yourself, you dont have to hide in the bathroom. As long as you dont make a mess, I dont mind if you do it on my bed. And while I dont have many videos suitable for men, I know which Canopy to download from. You can take your time finding spell materials. And I also have lubricant, its much better than water


    Stop, I was just taking a shower in the bathroom, nothing else!


    So you handle it during the day, when youre alone in the apartment? Hold on, let me check the browsing history


    I didnt do anything like that in your house!


    No way, youve been staying at my ce for three days Youre not a masochist, are you?


    I dont want to talk about it, move over, I need to use the Screen of Knowledge.


    Youre quite strange.


    Are you asleep?


    No.


    Isnt it ufortable sleeping on the floor? Why dont youe up and sleep in the bed? I can move over a bit.


    No need, Im afraid of you.


    Hey, thats kind of hurtful. Honestly, while there are many people who are afraid of my Bewitcher constitution, there are even more who are attracted to my looks. Besides the real thing, there are many games that could make you feel good want to give it a try?


    You know, Ive been wondering. Freya, youre so attractive, I bet you get hit on a lot at the Barista. But why do you prefer to spend money at the Mud Cafe?


    Hey, Ashe, havent you ever been to a Barista? You really dont have a clue, do you?


    Whoa, I cant believe Im being lectured aboutmon sense by someone who sleeps naked without a nket.


    Let me tell you, the most notable difference between a Barista, a Mud Cafe, and a Tea Caf is, everyone in a Barista is equal.


    Isnt equality a good thing?


    But equality means both sides have to serve each otheryou make mefortable, I have to make youfortable too. You have to give as much as you want to gain. And I just happen to dislike serving others, so Id rather pay a bit more to go to a Mud Cafe.


    Hearing that, you sound quite self-serving


    Moreover, the Mud Cafe offers buffet, bath, sauna, spa, and other entertainment. Mud Worker Service is just one of them. Every woman can temporarily shed her worries from reality and find entertainment suited for her at the Mud Cafe, so a visit there is a very rxing experience. ording to statistics, every adult woman visits a Mud Cafe once a month on average. Some high-ranking women even have long-term exclusive rooms in private Mud Cafes, living there directly and enjoying the top-notch service every night.


    Oh, I see, youre a queen, confident and shining!


    If you pay, you can also make some requests that ordinary men cant fulfill.


    I see Wait, what?


    Ashe,e here (pats bed), I wouldnt mind serving you.


    After you serve me, will you make a request forpensation?


    And the request is a special service that ordinary men cant fulfill?


    But youre not an ordinary man! Have some courage, Demonic Saint!


    I find the floor quitefortable. Goodnight.


    Hm, youre quite timid.


    Ive been wanting to ask, why are you always wearing arm and leg covers?


    What arm and leg covers?


    The fluffy white fur on your hands and feet isnt something you wear?


    How rude! Thats my natural charm fur. All Bewitchers have it. Its the biggest difference between Bewitchers and humans.


    I know a male Bewitcher who doesnt have this fur.


    There are no male Bewitchers in this world, only males with a certain amount of Bewitcher blood. Bewitcher is a term specifically for females. Moreover, if a Bewitcher gives birth, the daughter will definitely be a pure Bewitcher, while the son will mainly have the race bloodline of the male.


    I learned some uselessmon sense again.


    So, do you think my charm fur looks good? Although I like it myself, it seems that many people dislike charm fur, thinking its a characteristic of beasts. Some Bewitchers even undergo hair removal surgery, striving to look no different from humans


    It looks good! Can I touch it?


    But dont you think it looks too much like a beast?


    Isnt that even better?


    Ah? Could it be you are into the Moonshadow type?


    What I mean is, the charm fur only makes you better. It gives you a wild temperament, and you make the charm fur look even more cute and beautiful. Or to put it another way, its not the charm fur thats beautiful, but you. Youd even look good bald.


    Really!? I was actually thinking about changing my hairstyle


    But I think your current hairstyle is already very good, no need to change.


    Hehe, I think so too, you have quite a good eye.


    Whats for dinner?


    Fruit sd, and


    No Red me Fatty Fish Roe Rice Bowl?


    Thats actually quite a hassle to make


    Oh, then Ill go to ss.


    But I also want to eat it today, lets rece the fried steak with the Red me Fatty Fish Roe Rice Bowl.


    Hey, its you who wants to eat, not me begging you.


    Have you had any good luck recently?


    During ss, Ad suddenly asked this, which made Freya feel puzzled: No.


    Then why have you been so happy these days?


    Am I very happy?


    Your lips have been curling up, and they havente down. Its tiring even to look at! Ad supported her chin and looked at Freya sideways: I think even if I get admitted to the Red Mist Research Institute, I may not be as happy as you are.


    Freya subconsciously covered her mouth, but soon put it down: Thats not true, Im always a happy little Bewitcher.


    Cmon, what good thing happened? Cant you tell me?


    Freya looked at Ad quite strangely, Ad, you seem a bit impolite.


    Although they were friends, they were just friends.


    They could share hobbies. Ad took Freya to the Casino, and Freya took Ad to the Mud Cafe, which was perfectly fine.


    But once it came to privacy, it was the taboo that both parties could not touch. Although its hard to describe what privacy is considered a taboo, its quite simple to judge whether the current topic is a taboo or not  when the other party tries to avoid or refuses to answer, thats the taboo you cant keep asking about.


    People who cant do this are barbarians who cant read the air,ck social skills, and easily hurt others with words.


    Ad was naturally not a barbarian. In fact, she was well-liked and had several friends besides Freya. Plus, her ambition was to belong to the Heart Sect, so reading the air should be almost instinctive for her.


    Seeming to perceive Freyas astonishment, Ad asked back: Are you nning to see a psychologist soon?


    How do you know that? Freya asked subconsciously.


    Bingo.


    Recently, Freya had been feeling that strange emotion in her heart growing stronger, to the point where it was affecting her rationality.


    Although it was her first time experiencing this, she neither overthought it nor tried to solve it alone, but nned to see a psychologist for treatment.


    For the citizens of the Blood Moon Realm, if theres a physical problem, they seek a Medic, and if theres a mental problem, they find a psychologist. These are survival skills that even an Ogre knows.


    Moreover, the modern poption is highly likely to have mental issues. Some people need to maintain a monthly appointment with a psychologist from childhood, so the demand for psychological treatment is growing, even surpassing ordinary treatment  after all, modern people may not get sick or injured for a year, but almost no modern person can go a year without having a psychological issue.


    At the same time, being a psychologist is a verymon profession. If Freya doesnt be a Sorcerer in the future, she will most likely be an ordinary psychologist.


    The market is broad, and there are many practitioners. Coupled with college students medical allowance, psychological treatment for Freya is cheaper than a meal, so she naturally wouldnt force herself to face it alone.


    Ad whispered: Because youre very scared right now.


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 Chapter 150: Because You Want to Protect Yourself

    Chapter 150: Because You Want to Protect Yourself


    Scared?


    Freya reflexively asked, But didnt you just say Im very happy?


    Joy and fear can coexist, Ad replied, Ive seen many people like this in the Casinos betting games. They get a great hand, so theyre excited and happy because they can win. But they also worry that the opponent may have a better hand, so their worry and fear dont dissipate.


    Joyes from what you have, and feares from the possibility of the opponent taking it away at any moment. Freya, who are you betting with, and what exactly are you betting on?


    Anyway, this ss is so boring. Instead of talking to a therapist, why not talk to me? I wont even charge you.


    Freya hesitated, Generally speaking, if one seeks psychotherapy, they should find a therapist who has no rtion to their personal life


    Yes. Ad propped her chin, gazing at Freyas beautiful face, But youre clearly so happy, yet your eyes send out save me distress signals. I just cant turn a blind eye to it.


    Freya gently touched her own face, lost in thought for a moment.


    Ad didnt rush her, waiting quietly by her side.


    The sunshine was good today, and the teachers lecture was very hypnotic.


    In such a peaceful daily routine, Freya seemed out of ce.


    Because she was exuding a sense of happiness that Ad had never seen before.


    Even when Ad saw a gambler turn the tables in the Casino and repay his gambling debts, avoiding a life of digging as a mechanized miner, he wasnt as happy as Freya.


    Even the students who got into the Red Mist Research Institute as postgraduates werent as rxed as Freya.


    Even sessful entrepreneurs, sorcerers, professors, and schrs werent as content as Freya.


    It was just too dazzling.


    It even made Ad feel a bit disgusted, to the point of wanting to throw up.


    After a long silence, Freya finally spoke, I know a Bewitcher


    Oh, hahaha, okay, keep going. Ad could barely hold back herughter.


    Freya red at Ad and continued, She recently met a man for some special reasons


    Because of the contract, Freya couldnt expose Ashes identity, appearance, or the fact that he lived in her apartment, but she could still share the information after disguising the details. For example, their nights spent together could be described as staying overnight at a motel; their dinners together could be described as Freya going to Ashes house for dinner


    After recounting the fragments of their days together, Freya finally revealed her inexplicable feelings, I now both like and dislike him, both want to approach him and stay away from him, I feel like I might be sick


    Isnt this easy to understand? Adughed, The Bewitcher is in love with him.


    No, absolutely not. Freya shook her head, Ive been in love before. Love is closeness, embrace, greed, demand. How can it involve disgust or distancing?


    Ad said, There are many forms of love, or rather, love can have many purposes. The kind of love you are used to, Freya, is born from physical attraction, its fiery just to satisfy desires. When you encounter a more attractive person, your love will shift ordingly. For you, this kind of love is receable.


    But what this man offers to the Bewitcher is not just fleeting desire, but the joy of mutual understanding, dailypanionship, and soul connection. You may encounter many more attractive people in the future, but there may be only one such interesting soul.


    This is why Bewitcher despises this love and even tries to distance herself from ithes irreceable. Whats more terrifying is that he has gradually integrated into Bewitchers life, like a poison seeping deep into the marrow, impossible to be removed by any means.


    What a wicked man. He brought Bewitcher into his life, so her life was also intruded by him; he wanted to understand Bewitcher, so Bewitcher also wanted to understand him; he was dependent on Bewitcher, so Bewitcher also came to depend on him.


    Perhaps only a man whopletely gives up his dignity, independence, and privacy would act like this. Even if he received the most basic moral education in the Foster Home, he wouldnt stoop so low. Ad shook her head: Its astonishing that such a shameless man still exists these days, and he sessfully bewitched Bewitcher. Bewitcher is really unfortunate.


    Freya listened in confusion, subconsciously asking, What should I do then?


    Follow your instincts, detest him, stay away from him. Ad said softly, If this continues, you will only sink deeper into the increasingly intense affection, bing someone you no longer recognize. What will bind you then is not just the man, but also all the past youve invested in him.


    Youve heard it many times in the Foster Home, havent you? All rtionships that make you worry will contaminate you, All rtionships that make you feel wronged will harm you, All rtionships that make you change will dominate you. Everything that man does is contaminating you, harming you, dominating you.


    Ad grabbed Freyas hand, Weve received so much education, not to lose ourselves. We were born for ourselves, and only for ourselves, with no room to amodate others.


    Do you still remember the main connotation of the Bloodline Prohibition Law?


    Freya murmured, Its personal freedom


    Thats right, personal freedom. Because after the Bloodline Prohibition, families no longer exist, and kinship and love no longer have a foundation to stand on. Everyone has severed all societal shackles, hence the freedom of personality.


    Perhaps you value him highly right now, but thats just a misunderstanding. Next year, next month, tomorrow, or even the next second, you could have new thoughts, like new people, or want to live a new life.


    This is not only for your own sake, but also for the other party, as humans are far more changeable than Bewitcher.


    Think about it, what if the other party suddenly has new thoughts and chooses to leave you? How would you feel?


    Thinking about the short shelf life left, Freya suddenly felt breathless and struggled to say, I would feel terrible.


    Just knowing him for a short while has upset you. If you knew him for months, years, would you distort yourself and ingratiate him to keep him?


    Youve anticipated this possibility, youre worried about this future, thats why youre so uneasy, thats why you want to distance yourself from him.


    Because you want to protect yourself. Even if its a marshmallow, youre still afraid of being hurt.


    Looking at Freyas increasingly pitiful expression, Ad whispered in her ear, We dont need irreceable love.


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 Chapter 151: But I Want to Be With You

    Chapter 151: But I Want to Be With You


    Freya stood outside the door for a long time, listening to the sizzling sound of hot oil inside. Her hand rested on the doorknob, but she hesitated to turn it.


    Only when she heard the neighbors door opening as if they were about toe out, did she muster the courage to push the door open.


    Wee back, dinner is ready.


    The usual greeting made Freya hesitate for a moment, Im back.


    Do you want to watch College Students Moon or Death Pursuit? Ashe put the food on the table, operating the Screen of Knowledge to prepare tonights dinner show.


    College Students Moon is a lightedy about campus life. The protagonist is a goblin with poor academic performance, but after eating Moon Sugar, he enters an extremely intelligent moon mode. In this state, he is nearly invincible in exams and even enters the top university in the Blood Moon Realm with the highest score in the national exam.


    However, eating the sugar also brings him many side effects, causing his personality to fluctuate wildly. Sometimes hes quirky, sometimes reliable, sometimes ascetic, sometimes lecherous, sometimes gentle, sometimes violent.


    In order to hide his poor academic performance, the goblin has to contend with the side effects while actively participating in college life, leading to a series ofical campus stories.


    Frankly, this campus drama is well made. Its fast-paced, with one joke after another, filled with mockery of college life. Even to Ashe, its a rare good show.


    The prerequisite is that you can ignore its subtle promotion of the legalization of Moon Sugar.


    After Caimon City legalized Moon Sugar, other cities are also actively promoting simr bills. The poprity of College Students Moon could not be achieved without the backing of various interest groups. It could even be said to be a propaganda drama for Moon Sugar, aiming to change the publics negative perception and even make people view Moon Sugar as an everyday consumer product.


    By the way, the only brand of Moon Sugar featured in the drama is Snow White, well-known even to Ashe, indicating who the biggest sponsor of the drama is.


    On the other hand, Death Pursuit is a fantasy drama. The protagonist is killed by a friend, but at the moment of death, their souls switch. The friends soul dies in the protagonists body, and the protagonist survives in the friends body. To figure out why he was killed, the protagonist impersonates different identities, investigates step by step, experiences death repeatedly, disrupts the viins ns again and again, and unravelsyers of mysteries. Its a tightly-paced mystery drama.


    Ashe looked at some spoilers and found out that the viin is a cult organization.


    No matter how he looked at it, this cult seemed like the Four Pirs, moved like the Four Pirs, and even sounded like the Four Pirs. This was clearly the Four Pirs Religion!


    What was more, some people in the reviews were asking, Is this based on the true story of Ashe Heath? Ashe had to defend himself as an innocent bystander  this show started airing before I was even apprehended!


    College Students Moon, Freya said.


    Ashe had no objections and enjoyed his dinner while watching the show, asionallyughing so hard that his shoulders shook. From time to time, he reached out to rub Xiao Xian, who expressed dissatisfaction before continuing to munch on cat food.


    But Freyas attention was not on the drama or the food. Beneath her adorable and enchanting beauty, aplex mix of emotions was simmering.


    Ad was right.


    Ashe was a dangerous man, Freya had known that for a long time. What she hadnt expected was that in addition to the apparent danger, he was also so malicious inside  there was nothing more evil than binding a free spirit.


    Even a prison only binds ones body.


    Freya couldnt help but recall the materials she had looked up for her paper on Socialized Rearing a few days ago: The blood rtionship between the birth giver and the birth receiver is the farthest shackle from freedom. Severing all innate connections is the foundation of personal freedom All dependencies between people are betrayals to freedom.


    Besides, the moral education she had received over the past decade also surfaced in her mind.


    Human nature is the hardest color to depict. He might be a good person today, but he could be a criminal who extinguishes humanity tomorrow. When you trust someone wholeheartedly, it means they can hurt you at will.


    Dont have any expectations of others. Other people are hell.


    Trust only yourself, be responsible only for yourself, live only for yourself, die only for yourself.


    The best equality is that I cant take advantage of you, but you also cant take advantage of me plete and utterly unrted equality. Only when people have no connection can they have space to breathe freely.


    Never let someone nt a seed in your heart.


    Freya stole a nce at Ashe, finding himughing so hard he was about to spit out his food, his mouth corner smeared with a streak of cream. Faced with this ogre-like table manners, Freya felt no difort in her heart. Instead, she had a strange impulse  she wanted to lick off that streak of cream with her tongue.


    This is too terrifying, thought the Bewitcher.


    Ad was right, while she still had her sanity, she needed to swiftly sever this rtionship and banish Ashe from her life.


    Otherwise, she wouldnt be able to maintain herplete self, but would degrade into a ve of emotion, bound by elusive rtionships,pletely lose her freedom in personality, be a vassal of social rtions, and turn into an empty shell.


    No wonder Ashe is the leader of a cult. If all the followers of the Four Pirs Religion are this shameless people trying to pollute others, that indeed needs to be strictly cracked down on.


    No wonder she felt repelled and wanted to stay away from Ashe. Thinking about how she might closely observe every move of Ashes in the future, feel happy because Ashe is happy, feel sad because Ashe is sad, willing to give everything for Ashe, her heart would surge surge


    with a full of trepidation expectation?


    No, Freya, you are a Bewitcher with an independent personality, you must not sumb to the despicable means of a cult leader!


    You need to muster the courage to drive him out of this apartment!


    Without him, you can be better!


    Speak up after this meal!


    Speak up after washing the dishes!


    Wait until this homework is done and then


    Ill be leaving tonight.


    Freya jerked her head up, Where are you going?


    Where a jailbreaker should go. Ashe put on his coat and mask, Im very grateful for your care these past few days. Well, though I feel like Ive been taking care of you more.


    So, so soon? Freya was a bit flustered, Its not the seventh day yet


    Although the deadline is seven days, I have already found the information I need in the past few days, so theres no need to linger. Ashe summoned his Compassion Art Spirit, Youre not a Sorcerer yet, right? Do you have a container to store the spirit?


    I, I do. Freya went to open a cab, I have a Glowing Sphere that can temporarily store a spirit


    Ashe waited for a while, watching Freya still rummaging there, then went over and picked up a transparent spherical container, Is this it?


    Ah, yes, thats it. Freya scratched her head in embarrassment, Oh, it was right here, how did I not see it?


    Ashe put the Compassion Art Spirit into the Glowing Sphere and cut off his own connection with the spirit. The sphere suddenly glowed, and then the Compassion Art Spirit stretchedzily as if it had fallen asleep.


    Here. Ashe handed the Glowing Sphere to Freya, Our contract isplete.


    Okay.


    Please keep my identity under wraps after I leave. After all, you are essentially sheltering an escapee. It might cause you trouble. Although Ive done my best to avoid the neighbors, someone might have seen me around. If anyone asks, just say that you picked me up from the barista, and I just so happened to not die after you were done with me.


    Okay.


    Ashe crouched down and looked at Xiao Xian, stroking its head. Goodbye, dont bear the pain on your own in the future. Shout out if it hurts, or nobody will know.


    He stood up, looking at Freya, and smiled, Well, wish you peace and happiness, Freya.


    Freya didnt respond.


    She stared at Xiao Xian, as if the fold-ear cat had suddenly turned into a strange creature she didnt recognize. She couldnt take her eyes off it.


    Ashe didnt mind and walked past her towards the entrance.


    Will youe back?


    Ashe replied while putting on his shoes, No, if things go as nned, I will be doing something big tonight. Coming back to find you will only bring you trouble.


    Where will you live then?


    Ill be homeless, I might have to leave Caimon City. Ill figure something out.


    Sounds miserable.


    It is quite miserable. The reason why tonights dinner was sovish was because I foresaw that Id be living quite miserably for the next month. Consider it myst joy.


    As Ashes right hand grasped the door handle, his left hand was also held by someone.


    He turned his head and saw Freya clutching his wrist tightly.


    Ashe felt something, Do you want me to stay?


    No. Freya shook her head, I dont want you to continue to stay in this apartment.


    But I want to go with you.


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 Chapter 152: Sympathy

    Chapter 152: Sympathy


    Inside the apartment, the cult leader and Bewitcher locked eyes.


    Why?


    Upon hearing Ashes question, Freya was caught off guard. After a moment of thought, she replied, Im still a legal citizen. I can rent a ce to shelter you, I can work to support you, whatever inconveniences you have can be left to me I would do anything you ask.


    Though Im pleased youre willing to work to support me, Ashe said, unable to suppress a smile, my question isnt why should I take you with me, its why do you want toe with me?''


    Freyas face blushed slightly and she looked down at Xiao Xian who was rubbing against her feet, No reason I just want to be with you.


    Let me rephrase then. Why cant you ept me leaving you?


    Freya opened her mouth but found herself speechless.


    She bit her lip, feeling a pain in her heart she didnt know how to articte.


    Years of indoctrination had taught her not to expose her vulnerability.


    Suddenly, she remembered what Ashe had said to Xiao Xian: From now on, if you feel pain, dont keep it to yourself. Cry out, or no one will know.


    Because it would hurt, she whispered. The thought of never seeing you again, never tasting the food you cook, not being able to converse with you it makes my heart ache. Its ufortable, almost to the point of tears.


    As she spoke, Freya began to feel aggrieved, Even though everything will return to normal after youre gone, why does it hurt so much? Its not any different from before, but your presence has thrown my emotions into chaos. Why is this so?


    Because you feel lonely.


    Lonely? She seemed puzzled. But we-were all lonely. It says so in the books, that loneliness is the wings of freedom, that freedom shines because of loneliness


    Ashe took Freya by the hand and sat her down in the entranceway, gently saying, But youve never truly embraced loneliness, you were only running away from it. However, because you were young and the world was novel to you, life was interesting, so you could always run. Loneliness could never catch up.


    Youve seen Fernand Snows speeches, havent you? Do you know why he sought out his descendants? Because loneliness caught up to him. He was too old, the world was no longer novel to him, and life was nothing more than a series of calctions. Faced with the pursuit of loneliness, he had nowhere to hide. So he urgently needed to find another container to bear his loneliness-theres nothing better than seeing ones own lineage continue to alleviate the pain of solitude.


    What I did was establish a bond with you. When were together, the bond can dispel loneliness; when I leave, the other end of the bond will be connected to loneliness. Thats why you feel pain-youve been caught by loneliness, you cant escape.


    Freya looked down at her beautifully manicured toes and murmured, Youre so cruel


    In your eyes, I must seem like a viin, Asheughed, Actually, your point of view isnt wrong, and the teachings of the Blood Moon are for your benefit. If you never engage in any intimate rtionships, never establish any bonds, you wont experience disappointment, loneliness, or pain. Since you never had it, youre not afraid to lose it.


    But I reject this kind of for your own good.


    Ashe beckoned Xiao Xian over, lifted him high, and looked at where his testicles used to be, The pet store neutered them before selling them to you, because for cats, being in heat is very ufortable, painful, and can lead to a lot ofplications. Neutering them is for their own good.


    In my view, what the Blood Moon has done to you is no different from neutering a cat. You dare not step into intimate rtionships, being careful even when confronting marshmallows. This indeed lets you avoid many potential harms, but it also robs you of humanitys greatest abilitythe ability to love.


    But humans are not pets, at least they shouldnt be.


    Im d, Freya. Ashe met Bewitchers gaze and said, Youve learned to love, and you know to resist instead of running from loneliness. This shows that its not me whos crazy, but this realm.


    Ashe, youre really a thoroughgoing Cult Leader. Freyas smile was somewhat sorrowful. So, what should I do?


    Dont resist entering intimate rtionships; actively seek new bonds, be it friendships or romances. That way, you can resist the loneliness, Ashe advised. But the way you love needs some adjusting. Youre too extreme, even saying things like wanting to support me through part-time work. Switching fromplete independence to total reliance like this, you could easily be deceived by scoundrels.


    Stay true to yourself, learn to love. As long as you achieve these two points, you can live well in this mad realm, or rather, live happier than others.


    Freya stared at him intently, Can I really not follow you?


    Its not that you cant, Id be very willing. Ashe said, But that would mean you have to give up your achievements of over a decade, risk bing a wanted criminal, give up the degree within your grasp, abandon the resource-rich Swordflower College, forsake the mature Sorcerer training system of the Blood Moon Realm, and even give up the opportunity to be a Spirit Art Master Are you willing?


    Bewitcher was taken aback.


    Ive spent five days and four nights with you,pared to the over ten years youve spent in Caimon City, this is barely significant. To you, Im not that important. Youre just a bit impulsiveof course, Im d for this impulsivity, as it means your love is sprouting.


    Ashe couldnt help butugh, Speaking of which, I once invited someone to leave with me, she decisively rejected me due to realistic factors. Now that youre actively following me, Im actually rejecting you.


    Freya grumbled, You yearn for the unattainable, and reject the ones who throw themselves at you.


    Ive been scolded by you so much that Im starting to doubt my noble character. Ashe grinned, But my thoughts have always remained the sameI can give you this choice, but you need to think it through.


    I can be your regret, but I cant be your disaster.


    Freya hugged Xiao Xian and slumped on the ground, deep in thought for a long time. Eventually, she slowly said, So you n to toy with me until theres no turning back, then just up and leave?


    With Ashes persuasion, she calmed down a bit. Bing a Spirit Art Master was her dream. At this moment, her love seemed greater than anything, but that was because she hadnt made a strictparison, or rather, she didnt want to. But when Ashe ced her dream and love on the two sides of the scale before her, she could no longer run away.


    Visible things are always important, invisible things can always be easily discarded.


    Youre suddenly so harsh, making me out to be some scoundrel, but I really havent done anything. Ashe was somewhat at a loss whether tough or cry, And Im not saying I wont pay Didnt I give you a spirit?


    He paused then added, If you havent found new bonds temporarily, just look at the spirit and miss me. Missing someone can alleviate loneliness, can brew anticipation.


    Looking at the Compassion Art Spirit in the Glowing Sphere, Freya suddenly felt a pang of sorrow.


    Are all the nice things youve done for me, all your actions these days, just out of sympathy?


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 Chapter 153: Heart-Bewitching Girl

    Chapter 153: Heart-Bewitching Girl


    Ashe was momentarily stunned, then heughed and said, Shouldnt I be the one asking you that?


    Huh?


    You recognized me as Ashe Heath before we even signed the contract, didnt you?


    Ashe continued, But you still signed it.


    Well, thats because youre a notorious jailbreaker. Freya rubbed her eyes, avoiding Ashes gaze. How dare I defy you? Not to mention the benefit of receiving a spirit.


    Ashe chuckled: Dont forget, at that time I held the Compassion Art Spirit, I could feel your curiosity towards me, and pity.


    Freya remembered the night five days ago. She hesitated before signing, noticing the man beside her disying various emotionsurgency, hesitation, fear. His eyes unconsciously darted towards the balcony, seemingly prepared to plunge into the deep night at any moment.


    She suddenly recalled an unrted scenewhen she was casually browsing a pet shop and saw a Fold-ear Cat running amok. The cat, once caught by the staff, would look towards the window, then towards Freya.


    So she purchased Xiao Xian.


    So she signed the contract.


    So


    Im kind to you not out of pity, but out of fondness, Ashe said. As the first person I met outside prison, although you have many habits I cant understand, and your values differ from mine, your whole being is steeped in the bloody scent of the Blood Moon Realm


    But the kindness deep in your heart makes me feel that the world is still beautiful.


    Its because of you that I dont want to be a mere bystander. Even if its just you, I hope you can find enough happiness to heal a lifetime.


    Freya felt her face blushing, the formidable Bewitcher was even feeling shy: Youre about to leave, why say such things


    Its not like we cant meet again, Ashe said. Though Ill likely leave the Blood Moon Realm, I might return in the future. Even if I dont, youll be a Sorcerer, and we might meet in the Virtual Realmof course, its better if you dont meet my Sorcerers projection there.


    Were Sorcerers, we cant stop believing in miracles.


    So


    Ashe stood up, patting Freya and Xiao Xians heads: Goodbye, Freya, I hope youll be a Spirit Art Master when we meet again. Goodbye, Xiao Xian, I hope your illness willpletely heal.


    Freya bit her lip, watching him, Goodbye, Ashe, I hope I hope you turn out to be a good person.


    You make it sound like Im a bad person now


    With the closing of the door, the figure of the cult leader vanished into the night. Freya rubbed her eyes,id the Glowing Sphere and Xiao Xian down, returned to her desk, and picked up her pen to continue her homework.


    As she wrote,rge hot teardrops fell onto the paper, blurring her vision and smudging her writing.


    She leaned on the desk, her shoulders shaking slightly, weeping silently.


    Im surprised he didnt take her with him.


    The Sword Princess sat in Ashes seat, watching the crying Freya with interest. Despite all the changes in the jailbreak, Ashe still met the Heart-Bewitching Girl. Rather than coincidence, Id call it fatethe Heart-Bewitching Girl is always the apocalypse observers follower.


    No, it has nothing to do with fate or coincidence, its the result of a meticulous calction.


    The Observer leaned against the balcony railing, watching Ashe disappear into the night. This apartment is the closest to Caimon Comprehensive University, Freyas room was the only one without a light on the third floor at the time, Ashes choice was inevitable.


    Is it inevitable? the Sword Princess tilted her face upward, So the followings of Heart-Bewitching Girl were idental?


    The Observer nodded: I wasnt even a Sorcerer when I escaped from jail. Having Freyas help could save me a lot of troubles. Using her was undoubtedly the most cost-effective choice. For Ashe, who has now be a Two-wing Sorcerer, Freya would only be a burden, theres no need to take her along.


    This is the first time Ive felt injustice for Ashe. The Sword Princessughed in anger, You actually used your dirty thinking to specte and tarnish Ashes good intentions?


    He might have good intentions, but hes made many considerations deep down. The Observer said lightly: Its all the same.


    If its all the same, then why are we here? The Sword Princess said coldly, What we desire is the unique miracle.


    Whatever you say.


    Observer, is it my illusion, but I feel like youre not in a good mood today. At other times, you would have mocked me with all sorts of shameless and boring jokes.


    The Sword Princess looked at Freya: Is it because youve met an old subordinate whom you havent seen for a long time? How did the Heart-Bewitching Girl die? I only remember that I didnt kill her


    The Observer nced at her: Sword Princess.


    I suddenly recalled a distant rumor. The Sword Princess seemed oblivious, The Heart-Bewitching Girl initially followed you because of her love for you, but you never satisfied her, and even until she died, she seemed unable to win your favor.


    Just satisfy my curiosity, would you tell me your story with the Heart-Bewitching Girl?


    The Observer stared at her coldly, and the Sword Princess bravely stood up to him.


    It wasnt until Freya huped from crying too hard that the Observer coldly said, Are you feeling injustice for your former enemy?


    The Sword Princess said, I am feeling injustice for women who have met jerks.


    After a long silence, the Observer said: Do you know why her Mind Series miracle has such a high priority, such a wide range, and such a deep influence?


    Because shes a Bewitcher?


    Because shes an Abstinent Enchantress. The Observer said lightly, An abstinent Bewitcher not only can greatly increase the learning speed of the Mind Series but also cause qualitative changes to the Mind Series miracle. This is not exactly a secret poison. It may be passed among the Bewitcher group, but few Bewitchers can achieve it they must have a person that they are infatuated with, then the Bewitcher can enter the abstinent state, and only after they be integrated with the object can they relieve it.


    So, to get the Heart-Bewitching Girlsbat power, you kept using her in that way?


    I did it for her good.


    The paradise created by the Blood Moon Supreme was also for the good of the pets living in it. The Sword Princess said coldly, You make me sick, Observer.


    Ashe may not be Freyas regret, but you were once the disaster of the Heart-Bewitching Girl.


    Xiao Xian walked to the Observers feet and affectionately rubbed against the Observers boots.


    I will tell the others about this when I go back. Now we finally have a reason to unite. How can things go well when youre with this kind of loudmouth


    The Sword Princess was speaking, and when she turned her head, she found that the Observer had disappeared.


    The Fold-ear Cat jumped onto the desk and snuggled into Freyas arms.


    Freya raised her head in a daze, saw the Fold-ear Cat affectionately licking the tears on her face, and suddenly her nose was sour, and she held the Fold-ear Cat and cried loudly.


    The Sword Princess calmly watched this scene, her mouth slightly raised, revealing a mocking smile.


    Trying to make up for it nowhow pathetic.


    But she immediately shook her head in self-mockery: We are just as pathetic.


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 Chapter 154: The Cheating Secret of the Blood Moon

    Chapter 154: The Cheating Secret of the Blood Moon


    In Caimon City, the cathedral area of the Upper District, at No. 22 of the Silent Forest Vi Area.


    Knock, knock.


    Three seconds after the respectful knock, a cold voicees from inside: Come in.


    Beastman Gesas pushes the door open, stepping into the study that could be described as a small library along with his entourage. The room is 7.7 meters high and covers 79 square meters. All the walls are iid with bookshelves carved by Goblin craftsmen. Even the ceiling is covered with a ss canopy, behind which are ancient scrolls crafted with secret magics. The floor is covered with a soft, pinkish-purple carpet made from Bewitching Wool.


    Its not Gesass first time here, but each time he sees thisvish room, he cant help but bow even lower.


    Not to mention the precious knowledge that would never be circted in the Canopy, the pinkish-purple carpet alone is enough to prevent anyone from harboring any rebellious thoughts. You see, Bewitching Wooles in many colors, and pinkish-purple is arguably the rarest and most beautiful.


    How many Bewitchers would have to die to weave such a carpet?


    Of course, Gesas doesnt think his master would use any uwful means for a carpet. ording to his masters character, he would never disy something dirty so openly. Therefore, this carpet is awful and legitimate piece of art.


    He guesses it might be something his master purchased from a research institute, or a gift from a schr of the sacred bloodline. Almost all goods rted to corpses are produced by the institute.


    Only the institute with control over all corpse resources couldwfully and legitimately create such a dazzling work of art.


    Following the carpet through the book forest, what catches Gesass eye is a desk that looks like a tree trunk. There are no lights on in the room. A faint red moonlightes through the French windows, split in two by a chair, gently illuminating the area around the desk.


    The person sitting on the chair is bathed in darkness. When he opens his green eyes, Gesas bows his head and dares not meet the Elfs gaze.


    You dont look like youre bringing me good news, Gesas.


    We have located Ronat. We dispatched two Golden Mouths and seven Silver Mouths, but due to the fierceness of the Death Eaters, they still managed to escape, Gesas quickly stated. All the ck market healers are under surveince by the Woodpeckers. As soon as they seek treatment, they will be caught by us.


    Hmm, what else?


    Although there are no eyewitness reports, based on shopping and garbage collection situations, we can confirm that Igor Bukin is hiding in the apartment of Blood Mad Hunter Emma Lekthas. But Emma Lekthas is a Moonshadow, so we cant investigate further.


    Even the Moonshadows are willing to shelter him? The Elf seemed a little surprised. They must have been deceived, most Moonshadows are simple-minded creatures What else?


    Several affiliated hospitals Corpse Recovery Departments have reported that when they went to recover bodies at the coordinates provided by the Heresy Court, they found no bodies. A Heresy sub-bureau in the Upper District arrived at the crime scene within ten minutes of receiving the death signal, but they also found no bodies and couldnt even track down any traces.


    There were several sensational murders in the Lower District. The heads of several gangs under the Eternal Wine Club suddenly went mad and ughtered their subordinates. The bodies of the perpetrators have clear Necromancy Traces.


    A former member of the Eternal Wine Club died in his sleep without any signs of resistance.


    The clean and proficient way of handling bodies, as well as the style of a control master, all indicate that Corpse Lover Archibald Harvey is seeking revenge.


    Gesas continued, Based on his range of activity, we can basically determine that his base is inside the Pig District. Give me three more days, and I will definitely find him!


    I dont doubt your capabilities, but Im certain you wont be able to find him.


    The elf gently tapped the surface of the desk with his fingers, This necromancer has vited the taboos of the sacred bloodline. These days, the Heresy Court is bound to be doing everything in its power to track him down perhaps even as we speak, hes been caught by the Blood Mad Hunter, bled like a pig, his memories being unraveled, and his body being broken down into various materialswhen facing an enemy who can touch their interests, the sacred bloodline always shows respect.


    Although they havent caught him, these four pieces of news can be considered as good news, right? So


    Is there more?


    Gesas was trembling all over, his knees buckled, and he knelt down directly, his forehead pressed against the carpet, his heart gripped by boundless fear, but his words were still fluent: Im sorry, Woodpecker simply couldnt find any traces of Ashe Heath, not a bit of information.


    Lightughter came from behind the desk, Under the glory of the Blood Moon, everyone is equal, and Gesas, you are a Two-wing Sorcerer who has bathed in the rain of gold, dont kneel so easily.


    Faced with this seeminglyforting constion, Gesas didnt dare to move a muscle. This pride of the beastmen, still maintained the most humble posture, exposing his defenseless back to his master.


    Thats right, he and his master were both Two-wing Golden Sorcerers. If it were anywhere else, Gesas wouldnt say he was on par with his master, but at least he wouldnt be this humble however, this was the Blood Moon Realm.


    Thew is the will of the gods, the rules are the desire of the gods.


    Unless one is willing to renounce society, civilization, willing to be a beast, willing to quit this garbage game, even legendary sorcerers must obey societal rulesand in a game with rules, resources are the biggest voice.


    Power is a type of resource, an important one, but not the only one. The more stable a society, the less valuable power as a resource bes, and in this civilization that has been passed down for more than a thousand years, power exists merely as a threshold, like a degree.


    Non-sorcerers can only honestly be fuel for society, although sorcerers have the qualification to participate in this game, its just a qualification, because this is a PVP game that started a thousand years ago, with no newbie viges, no low-level zones. All new yers who join face various guild leaders (businessmen), high-level yers (legendary sorcerers), and even cheaters (Blood Moon Dual Race).


    The most interesting part is, although its a PVP game, all areas in society are safe zones, theoretically not allowing attacks on each other.


    Thus, new yers only have two pathsthey can be dogs for the old yers, sharing the resources that trickle down from their fingers through ttery; or they can be fuel, being silently isted and pushed out by the old yers.


    Gesas was a new yer who only started this game thirty-six years ago, although his talents were indeed extraordinary, a mere beastman who reached the Two-wing level at thirty, but his master, he was an old yer who joined this game one hundred and eighty years ago.


    Compared to arcane energy, connections, power, and resources are the elfs most terrifying strengths.


    Titles like the chairman of the Elf Rights Association, city council member, school professor are needless to mention, merely being the mastermind behind Woodpecker is enough to easily ruin all of Gesass years of hard workGesas was certainly the current leader of Woodpecker, but most of Woodpeckers core members could be directly controlled by the master.


    Its funny, as an organization that does the dirty work, core members of Woodpecker actually dont have things like wages, even if theirbor rights are vited,borws certainly wouldnt protect them, they might be better off seeking revenge from the Heresy Court.


    The primary source of ie for most members of the Woodpecker organization, including Woodpecker itself, isloans.


    All the rewards that everyone receives are temporary loans from financialpanies. Of course, as long as you work honestly, they wont ask you to repay the money, let alone charge interest. But once a financialpany chooses to collect, anyone who cant repay the money will directly be a defaulter.


    In the Blood Moon Realm, bing a defaulter is tantamount to sleeping in cardboard boxes under the overpass. You cant use any transportation, cant pass any checkpoints, cant make any high-consumption activities, cant rent a house, and even cantmunicate. Its like being kicked out of civilized society with one foot.


    Some may wonder, with such harsh conditions, why would anyone join Woodpecker? Cant they just work honestly and sign a service contract where their rights and interests are protected byw?


    Because the members of Woodpecker cant stand the 9 to 5 work routine. And for a Sorcerer, unless they join a specific institution like a research institute, most jobs are a waste of time.


    Learning as a Sorcerer requires full-time dedication and a lot of money.


    Even if they want to borrow money to study full-time, no bank will approve this kind of loan. Comparatively, Woodpeckers offering of no-term interest-free loans is very appealing. If they can be a Two-wing Sorcerer, Woodpecker will naturally waive the loan and even value their services. Even if they dont be a Two-wing, as long as they dont betray the organization, Woodpecker wont ruin their credit.


    If they want to work and practice at the same time, its not impossible. In fact, those who do this are often promoted as inspirational models. But since its inspirational, it shows how rough this road is. Every sessful person needs to have talent, hard work, and luck to break out of the ordinary life.


    Those with these qualities, if theye to Woodpecker and take the evil path earlier, might seed faster.


    Woodpeckers growth to this day is not by chance. Even without Woodpecker, these wicked Sorcerers would still pledge allegiance to other forces in exchange for learning resources (especially time resources), even if it means signing even stricter contracts and sparing no effort.


    Moreover, most Sorcerers dont even have the chance to be a dog.


    They can only be a dogs dog.


    If we say the ie of regr legal work is 1, the feed for a dog like Gesas is 15, then the ie of a Woodpecker with a Silver Mouth is 5, and a Golden Mouth is 10.


    So even if Gesas rises up now and could potentially kill the Elves, he would still humble himself.


    Even if he kills his master, so what? He cant inherit any of the Elves legacy. The debt-ridden Woodpecker wont recognize a criminal leader, all the Elves had will be divided among his peers, and Gesas, who broke the game rules, will only be sent to Shattered Lake Prison. As a dreadful criminal leader, he will be stripped of hisst dignity in the Blood Moon livestream.


    The best oue would be for other old yers to appreciate Gesas, save his life, and take him under their wing. In other words Gesas would simply have a new master.


    This is the racial equality of Blood Moon. In front of the immortal races, everyone is equally inferior.


    This is the freedom of human rights in Blood Moon, the freedom to choose which old yer to serve under.


    From a long time ago, Gesas knew that the Blood Moon was a paradise for the immortals. In this game where there is no inheritance, no generational umtion, and all new yers need to start over, lifespan is the most powerful cheat code.


    The longer the lifespan, the more resources you can get; the longer the lifespan, the more you can be an old yer; the longer the lifespan, the more you can form an interest group centered on yourself.


    This exins why the Blood Moon Dual Race is the ruling ss and why Elves are praised as stewards of societyfor the Blood Moon Dual Race, Elves are the only race that has the right to stand on an equal footing with them.


    As for those short-lived species that would die within a century, they are not worth attention at all. This is not about discrimination, nor even about interests, because in the eyes of the long-lived species, the short-lived ones are merely their resources.


    Lifespan is the ultimate ss barrier.


    So even if he has to bow and scrape, even if he is as lowly as a maggot, Gesas has to earn enough money to afford the life-extension surgery.


    Sometimes Gesas would wonder, if he had not been born in a foster home in the lower district, if he had determined to go to high school, college, and finally seeded in being admitted to a research institute as a member of the sacred bloodline, would everything be different?


    But there are not so many ifs in the world. If he was not born in the right ce, if he did not do well in school, he would have to take the toughest road.


    As time passed by the second, the study was so quiet it seemed to solidify. Not until Gesas was soaked in cold sweat did the Elfs voice sound slowly: Keep an eye on Gerard.


    After a moment of silence, Gesas said, The captain of the Blood Mad Hunters, the White-Haired Butcher Gerard Westminster?


    Ashe Heath made him lose face, Gerard will definitely hunt him down personally. If Gerard kills him on the spot, then it ends there; if Gerard chooses to arrest him and spares his life


    Then the woodpecker will eat this pest.


    Stealing a kill from Ashe Heath in front of a Tri-Wing Sanctuary Sorcerer?


    Even thinking with his gut, he knew how difficult this task would be, but Gesas responded without hesitation: Yourmand will be carried out, but since two days ago, Gerard has been elusive, even the Heresy Court does not know his whereabouts, I wonder


    Hes probably at Observation Point 53. The Elf said, Go, may the Blood Moon light your way.


    Gesas exited the room with measured steps, closing the door gently behind him.


    The Elf opened a file next to him. Inside was the resume of Ashe Heath. It detailed his birth records, upbringing in a foster home, high school awards, and college activities.


    He tapped the desk lightly with his finger, his nails were quite slender, creating a tap, tap, tap sound on the wooden table


    Why havent you left yet?


    The Elf looked up, gazing at the hooded figure in front of his desk.


    The hooded figure walked from the shadows of the study into the blood-lit ground, wearing a mask, his eyes filled with surprise.


    Indeed, even among Two-wing Sorcerers, there is a hierarchy. He chuckled, Even a Two-wing Sorcerer could detect me, it seems I cant bluff in front of Gerard


    Youre not Gesass follower? The Elf furrowed his brow, Who are you?


    He had noticed this person just now, but he thought it was Gesass follower, so he didnt pay much attention.


    But at this moment, he suddenly realized a problemGesas never brought anyone to see him, only the leader of the Woodpecker had the privilege to meet him


    Its really heartbreaking, after all the hardships I escaped from Shattered Lake, you, Professor, cant even recognize your prized student.


    He pulled down his mask, revealing a refreshing smile.


    Nice to meet you, Sylin Dole, Im Ashe Heath.


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 Chapter 155: You are not Ashe Heath at all

    Chapter 155: You are not Ashe Heath at all


    Looking at the visitor, Sylin stood up abruptly. The Blood Moon shone through his hair, illuminating his stunned face.


    Why are you?


    Perhaps its just to see the expression on your face now.


    Asheughed, Ashe Heath, who had never learned swordsmanship, fought against a reckless elven swordsman in a battle, miraculously defeated him, sought revenge on the person who framed him after escaping from prison, and thus began a dramatic lifewhat do you think of this script?


    By the way, dont move around, or my finger will tremble.


    Sylin felt a chill on his neck, and a warm liquid flowed into his cor.


    Dont look down, your head will fall off. Ashe said seriously, his right hand forming a sword, pointing at the Elven Professor.


    He pulled out a long sword from under his tongue, propped it on the ground, and the Sword Aegis Miracle was ready.


    Sylin nced downwards, Heart Sword Valcas Heart Sword spirit? I see, I was wondering, Valcas is not a careless elf, if he really wanted to kill someone, theres no reason why he would make a nearly dead mistake its more likely that he did it on purpose, he has always liked to show off.


    Ashe was slightly taken aback, He has always liked to show off?


    Yes, like scoring one more point on each test than the previous one, standing on one finger in bnce, or turning the tide in a swordpetition after losing 10 points he has always been fascinated by his own talent, always wanting to be a dazzling hero, always wanting to increase the difficulty to attract peoples attention.


    Sylins eyelids half-closed, He has always been a naughty and proud child.


    Ashes pupils slightly erged, What is your rtionship with Valcas?


    Sylin tilted his head slightly, allowing his throat to be cut by the Heart Sword, I know what you are thinking I was once a teacher at the Jade Dragon Nursery, teaching for thirty-one years, well, its now called the Jade Garden. In my second year of teaching, the Beloved Church sent six elven children one of whom was Valcas Uhl.


    I named him, implying free water lily. In theory, the elves should choose a new name for themselves after leaving the nursery, just like my name, which I chose for myself, implying gorgeous iron begonia.


    He didnt change his name, which means he likes this name, and also means


    Sylin gently pressed his left chest with his right hand, He respects me, the guardian teacher who watched him grow up.


    Although Ashe had anticipated that Sylin and Valcas had an unusual rtionship, given the deep hatred that Valcas showed in front of Ashe, indicating that the enmity between these two elves is deep, it is far from an ordinary interest rtionship.


    But Ashe never expected that the rtionship between Sylin and Valcas would be this close!


    Why did you send Valcas to the Blood Moon Tribunal?


    What a strange question, Heath, very strange. Sylin said, He vited thew, was imprisoned, was sent to trial, everything was deserved, everything was as it should be. He took the wrong path, made a wrong step, killed himself, why do you say it as if I killed him?


    Stop pretending, do you think I would still buy your nonsense after hearing Fernand Snows speech a few days ago? Ashe sneered, In a high position, using your power wisely, wrapping personal interests in public interests, hiding personal matters in public matters, you can achieve your goals within the legal scope, all these are just a small caprice of power.


    What I want to ask is, given your deep connection with Valcas, how could you decide to eliminate him? Just because he was ipetent, unable to kill me in the death match? Simply to ensure my death in the Blood Moon Tribunal, you put him in the judgment sequence too, leading both of us to mutual destruction?


    Simply? A rare anger surfaced on Sylins face. I was seriously trying to kill you! I did everything I could, used every means at my disposal. You summarized all my efforts and determination over these days with just one simply!?


    The sudden outburst from the elf forced Ashe to retreat a bithe had to, or his sword heart would cut through the elfs throat! Sylin dared to ignore his own life, leaning his head forward to re at Ashe, as if Ashes words had provoked his fury!


    Calm down, calm down, Professor Sylin, Ashe didnt even know what he was saying, Lets talk it out slowly, dont move around. I didnt want things toe to this either.


    In an instant, the positions switched: the assassin Ashe became humble, while the victim Sylin seemed to rise up in indignation. The reason was simple, Ashe found his threat was not as effective as he had imagined.


    He thought when he sessfully put the sword heart to the elfs throat, there would be only two oues


    The elf would rather die than submit, leaving Ashe with no choice but to grant him a swift death;


    Or the elf would beg for mercy, allowing Ashe toplete a satisfying revenge.


    But Sylins reaction waspletely beyond Ashes expectation.


    He was surprised, but not afraid; he was unafraid of death, and did not mind revealing information to Ashe.


    Ashe thought Sylin was preparing some sort of miraculous counterattack, ready to behead him with a single stroke as soon as Sylin tried anything.


    However, Sylin did not counterattack; instead, he deliberately bumped his throat against the de of the sword heart.


    This left Ashe in a dilemmabecause he needed more than just information from Heath, he also needed information to escape from the Blood Moon Realm.


    But thetter was not something ordinary like him, without an ID, could find out. This elf in front of him, however, was a high-level yer who had achieved revered status in political reputation (as a congressman), racial reputation (Elf Rights Association), academic reputation (a university professor), and local reputation (Woodpecker). Sylins two hundred years of connections made him a massive source of information.


    With Ashes current ability, Sylin was the best person to consult about leaving the Blood Moonof course, aside from Sylin, there must be many others who knew how to leave, such as the Blood Mad Hunter Gerard, the Director of the Research Institute, the War Zone Commander, the Bishop of the Beloved Church This was why Ashe was so torn, because aside from Sylin, everyone else could easily defeat him.


    Ashe quickly weighed his gains and decided to go along with the elf for now. Once he had obtained the needed information, he would stab his sword through the throat of this mastermind,plete a splendid revenge, and be a legitimate fugitive.


    That time when Valcas stabbed my throat in the Blood Moon Tribunal, now Im stabbing yoursits fair, right? Im just making a slight profit. I took the sword heart, but essentially, its Valcas betraying you.


    As the saying goes, every debt has its debtor. When you get to the Virtual Realm, Professor Sylin, you can take your revenge on Valcas. Of course, you can alsoe at me. Ill let the Sword Princess blow up your head.


    Having prepared himself to be the viin, Ashe managed to squeeze out a friendly smile: Professor Sylin


    I gave him a chance.


    Huh?


    I never hesitate to show kindness to my kind. For every Elf who has lost their way, I give them chance after chance to atone for their sins, Professor Sylin said calmly, How I wish I could have a hearty drink and merry conversation with Valcas if given the chance How I wish I could pass on this study to him just like 70 years ago, when the previous president handed this study over to me.


    He was once my most admired sessor. He detested politics, but he was skilled at it since a young age. He had a love for killing, but he was always clean and left no evidence. He loved to take risks, which is why he spent ten years as the leader of the Woodpecker  those were truly the mostfortable ten years. Compared to him, Gesas is like a wild boar that only knows how to search for treasures in the mud.


    Moreover, your initial guess might not be wrong.


    Hmm?


    Ashe took a moment to understand  his initial guess?


    Besides being Valcas guardian teacher, I might also be Valcas provider in a biological sense, Sylin stated.


    Ashes mouth opened wide, and after a moment of shock, he managed to utter a word, Possibly?


    I dont have the same interest as Fernand Snow, specifically tracing the flow of my own bloodline, Sylin said calmly. However, we Elves are a very special race. Apart from our lower sexual desire, thebination of our gic factors also has a very low probability, only rising from 0.8% to 13% in a certain month. This month is known as Elf Birth Month, which urs only once every three years on average.


    Unlike other races that can reproduce freely, Elves only have full mating rights during the Elf Birth Month. This is not just to increase the birth rate, but also to cut off bloodline bonds  the birth count of Elves is too low. If we spread out reproduction, bloodline providers can easily find their children based on the birth date.


    A year before Valcas joined the Foster Home, I responded to the call of the church and fully mated. Theoretically, Valcas could indeed be my child. Our hair and eye colors are identical, and I can see my past self in him.


    Sylins voice did not fluctuate, only his pupils revealing the frozen vicissitudes of time.


    Time cannot etch the bodies of the Elves, but their souls have long been upied by the vast past. Simply flipping a page from their memory would reveal a journey of hardship.


    If he is both your student and your child, why


    Valcas disappointed me, Sylin covered his eyes with his hand, He is a stain on the Elves, a rebel of the immortal race. I gave him a chance, promising him the reward of reuniting with his biological child, but he still chose to defy my wishes I cant wait to see him suffer in Blood Moon Heaven.


    Perhaps it was because he had been living in this bizarrend for too long, Ashe found himself calmly observing these iprehensible interpersonal rtionships, losing the urge toment.


    Now that they had unraveled the mystery of Valcas, what was next


    Professor Sylin, why exactly do you want to


    Ashe suddenly found himself slowing down, even his thoughts seemed sluggish as if he was listening to a foreignnguageprehension test. He watched with wide eyes as Sylin took a step back, out of the range of the sword heart, and began summoning a spirit to perform a Miracle.


    At that moment, the thought I need to use Sword Aegis to defend slowly surfaced in Ashes mind.


    But he had no time to do anything. The wooden floor suddenly sprouted branches that pierced through the carpet, flowing along his body. In no time, arge tree formed in the study, and Ashe had already fused into the tree trunk,pletely bound by it!


    Time fell like rain, each momentnding with a clear ring. Ashe regained his senses, but it was already tootethis tree not only bound his body but also locked away his arcane energy. The floating sword heart, which depended on that energy, had vanished due to the interrupted connection!


    The Honeyed Words, Dagger in Heart, which was essential for invoking sword spirits, had been seized by the tree branches. Now, all his sword spirits were rendered useless!


    This was the weakness of professional spiritsif one could identify themon restrictions of the corresponding faction and seize the necessary casting medium, they could disable most of their opponents powerful spirits!


    Indeed, you cannot resist the control of the Stunning Eyes.


    It was only then that Ashe noticed Sylin had removed the glove from his right hand.


    He held his right hand over his eyes, yet Ashe could clearly see the elfs green iris. It was so deep, so bright, as if it wanted to suck in ones soul.


    But what surged in Ashes heart was profound shock.


    Because there was a hole in the palm of Sylins hand.


    A hole that could allow an eye to peer through!


    Youre not really Ashe Heath, are you? Who the hell are you?


    Sylin lowered his hand, sat back down in his chair, and looked at Ashe with a puzzled expression.


    Although he didnt know how hed been discovered, Ashe quickly seized the opportunity to y along: Yeah, thats right. Im not Ashe Heath. Just a regr guy who couldnt sleep and went out for ate-night walk. I hope the esteemed elf will let me go soon, or Ill use you of detaining me and viting my human rights


    Sylin ignored himpletely, muttering to himself.


    But soon he abruptly stood up, his face filled with unmistakable terror and hysterical hostility!


    Could it be the ritual was sessful?


    He red at Ashe as if he wanted to tear this handsome young man to pieces: Are you the real Touch?


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 Chapter 156: Observer Ashe

    Chapter 156: Observer Ashe


    What is Touch?


    Ashe was perplexed. These sorcerers always managed toe up with new terms he had never heard before.


    He actually seeded, Heath actually seeded! How is this possible, how can this be possible! Sylin roared quietly, suddenly turning into a desktop cleaning master, striking the desk hard and swiping the Screen of Knowledge onto the floor, shattering it into pieces.


    Ashe swallowed: Calm down, why dont you exin to me whats going on? Maybe I can offer all sorts of support apart from substantial assistanceeh!


    The tree trunk suddenlypressed inward. Ashe felt a heavy pressureing from all directions, almost suffocating him. Even breathing became extremely difficult, as if he was about to turn into an Ashe pancake!


    I cant breathe!


    Arent you going to fight back? Sylin said coldly, his left hand pointing at Ashe, making a grip gesture: Your body is still so fragile, I might identally crush you. Ill count to three. Three, two, one


    Is this the end for me?


    If only I had killed him earlier If only I hadnte to find Sylin If only


    Facing death, Ashe surprisingly found that he was not as strong as he thought. His heart was filled with regret. He thought he didnt care much about life, but it seemed that was not the case.


    Or perhaps, what he cared about was not life


    Ashe instinctively closed his eyes and clenched his teeth, waiting for the severe pain before death.


    However, when the countdown ended, the tree trunk did not squeeze Ashe into a pulp, but instead loosened somewhat, allowing Ashe to enjoy the freedom of breathing again.


    He opened his eyes and saw Sylin stumbling and falling against the desk. Sylin had tears running down his face, but he wasughing: You are indeed not Heath, you really arent Hahaha! He seeded? He actually seeded? How could he seed?


    Ashe silently watched Sylin crying andughing, then after a long while, he finally asked, What were you testing just now?


    Sylin,pletely disregarding courtesy, sat on the carpet next to the desk. After a while, he replied, The real Heath, he possesses the Key. He doesnt need arcane energy or evennguage. As long as Heath activates the Key, he can control any followerincluding me.


    He showed a deep-seated fear on his face: That is a contamination more terrifying than death, itspletely stripping away ones self-control! I tried tomit suicide before, but death is not an excuse for disobedience. The moment before I attempted suicide, I lost control of my body until Ipleted the work he assigned. I then regained the right to use my own body From then on, I could not resist any of his orders and could only faithfully enforce his will.


    From the moment you ced the sword heart on my neck, I knew you were not Heath. But I dared not believe, dared not take risksperhaps Heath was just pretending, perhaps you were a personality split from Heath, or perhaps Sylins voice was trembling, I simply didnt have the courage to believe that Heath would disappear.


    I was afraid you were just another one of his tricks.


    Ashe looked at Sylins right hand: You mentioned Stunning Eyes just now


    You didnt inherit Heaths memories? Sylin raised his right hand, the hole in the center of his palm was so round, like a missing puzzle piece, the moonlight passing through without hindrance.


    This is a hole drilled by Heath himself, the price of the ritual.


    Ritual Ritual Faction?


    Yes, Sylin lowered his head to look at his hand, To be fair, although the price is not small, the effect of Stunning Eyes is extremely powerful. Anyone who is stared at through the hole in my palm will fall into a several-second mentalg, during which they cant perform any actions, not even blinking.


    Mind Control!


    Ashe deeply felt the horror of this sorcerers control skill. He couldnt resist the experience of mental sluggishness hed just had. He hadnt even had time to think about resisting.


    If an ordinary persons mind is a waterfall, with countless thoughts sshing and surging every second, then Ashes mind just now was like a quagmire, with only a bubble born from decay after a long time.


    Of course, such a powerful effect is not without its limits, Sylin said. The Stunning Eyes can only take effect on each person once because only the first time is shocking, and after that, theres only stunning.


    I was just taken by the Stunning Eyes, so youre sure Im not Heath


    Heath has already seen my Stunning Eyes, Sylin said calmly. All the followers in the church who are given the Stunning Eyes, Heath has seen them all. He wont let his followers have a way to counter him.


    Despite theck of evidence, Ashe is now stuck in a tree, and Sylin could make him do anything. Sylin had no reason to lie to him.


    However, Ashe still found it hard to believe. After all, Heath was a nobody who wasnt even a sorcerer. Without Ashe, Heath wouldnt even be able to pass the Beautiful Beast Igor, a novice assassin. He would be directly robbed by Igor of his contributions and fall to the bottom of the prison.


    If Heath really was a big bad guy with hidden cards, then where are those cards?


    I came all the way to substitute for him, and he didnt even leave me a card!?


    So, Ashe still felt that Sylin was fooling him. A two-hundred-year-old Two-Winged Elf was controlled by a twenty-something non-sorcerer human? If Ashe told the Sword Princess this, she would probably respond, Dont read so many underdog storybooks at such a young age.


    After a moment of silence, Ashe asked, Why are you telling me all this?


    Because Im thinking, Sylin looked at the ground, about what to do with you.


    After all, thest task Heath left me was to kill you.


    Ashe was taken aback, Kill me wait, but I am Ashe Heath, you mean


    Thats right, Sylin stood up leaning on the desk, Thest task Heath gave me was to do my best to kill him. To thoroughly erase the Heath who would be left after the ceremony.


    Ashes mouth twitched, his pupils shrunk, So, my capture by the Blood Mad Hunter Varcas the Blood Moon Tribunal and Gerards visit, all were


    All were your own will, Sylin said. Im just doing my best to carry out your orders.


    The one who wants to kill me is Heath?


    Even though Ashe tried to judge if Sylin was lying, his heart still beat uncontrobly.


    Infinite malice and resentment flooded his thoughts like a deep sea. A bone-chilling cold seeped into his body, and he seemed to hear theughter of countless people.


    From the beginning, he was a clearly arranged pawn.


    He couldnt even tell who the real mastermind was. He was like a child who saw his backpack being tossed around by bullies, not knowing who to hit, almost about to cry out of frustration.


    But strangely, Ashe didnt ignite the fire of anger to dispel the chill in his heart.


    He calmly epted the truth that he had been fooled. He could even dispassionately observe his own thoughts tumbling and boiling, as if looking at someone elses Sorcerer Handbook, enjoying a dramatic plot of storms.


    When you can observe pain, you are freed from pain.


    When you can observe the self, you are freed from fate.


    Anger, resentment, and regret cant solve any problems. Only absolute calm, precise judgment, and mechanical execution can prate all secrets, understand the truths of the world, and implement your own will.


    Dont let the hormones secreted by your body affect your thinking. Dont let boring worldly concepts restrict your imagination. Dont let an unknown future destroy your calm.


    Ashe, you need to watch yourself, you need to transcend reality, you need to think about the correct next step, execute the strategy that maximizes benefits, using all avable resources.


    Just treat others as tools.


    And treat yourself as a tool as well.


    Then you can be the unprejudiced Observer Ashe.


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 Chapter 157: There Is Also the Sword Princess

    Chapter 157: There Is Also the Sword Princess


    In the study room on the second floor of the vi, Ashe was practically turning into a treant, like a tombstone of a forest. Each of his branches was as hard as steel, and every leaf was absorbing his arcane energy.


    This was a very powerful miracle from the Sylvan sect. Its notable that the Sylvan sect has always been known for creation as its main development direction, yet this miracle was unusually ferocious. Its hard to imagine how many spirits werebined within it to incorporate binding, killing, and weakening effects all in one.


    The over-two-hundred-year-old Sylin was a Two-wing Sorcerer, which wasnt surprising. The realm of sects was the most ruthless test, acting as a natural chasm that blocked all the mediocrities without enough talent or opportunities. Efforts were meaningless to a Sorcerer, as effort was the foundation of a Sorcerer. However, without talent, no matter how long you live, how diligent, or how desperate you are, you cant touch the higher scenery.


    Although Sylin couldnt see the higher scenery, he had ample time. Therefore, he could appreciate the towering and ancient trees next to him, the poison stinger of the bee, the secrecy of the spider, and the hidden threat of the nts.


    All resources could be transformed into the power of a Sorcerer, including time.


    Ashe didnt look down on Sylin because he was also a Two-wing Sorcerer C neither now nor in the past. But time wasnt on his side. As time passed, it would be easier for the Heresy Court to find him. He found in the Canopy that the Heresy Court had begun arge-scale investigation into the lower areas and the Pig District.


    Although Freyas home was a haven of peace, it was also his deathbed.


    He had to get the needed intelligence as soon as possible, and Professor Sylin was his only choice. He knew before he arrived that he had to stake his life. After all, life was just a more important chip, and you had to bet when it was time to.


    Moreover, to him, how important is the chip of life?


    This wasnt the gambling game he was familiar with, and the gamblers he was facing werent familiar either. If it werent for the fear of being picked up by others, he might have wanted to throw this chip away a long time ago.


    Ashe closed his eyelids slightly, as if he were falling asleep.


    His voice became loud and steady, as if he were the ruler here: Have you made a decision then, Professor Sylin?


    Sylin circled him, murmuring: Since Heath is no longer here, I naturally dont need to continue to be loyal to him, nor do I need to carry out his orders. I am now a free Blood Moon Elf.


    But your existence is always a huge threat. No one can guarantee whether Heath will revive again, returning like a bolt of lightning with mountains of corpses and seas of blood.


    But you wont kill me. Ashe said calmly: After you know that I am not Heath, not only do you not want to kill me, but you also have to protect my life.


    After careful consideration, Ashe knew that he was in no danger at all.


    If he were the real Heath, Sylin would have to obey the order to assassinate him, but Heath also had a way to control Sylin; he was not Heath, and Sylin had been freed, so naturally, there was no need to kill him.


    Perhaps some people will wonder, wouldnt Sylin, who had been enved and controlled by Heath, want to destroy Ashe, who was a stand-in?


    Of course not. If Sylin only had thoughts of revenge, he would have crushed him like a peach just now.


    But Sylin was in fear.


    Yes. Sylin stopped behind Ashe, his voice trembling: Since Heath wants you dead, then you have to live, even if you have to live in a pitiful way, even if life is worse than death, you have to live!


    Ashe asked: Do you know why Heath wants to kill me?


    I dont know, but considering how weak, ignorant, and insignificant you are, it can only mean one thing


    Sylin walked in front of Ashe, his index finger pointing at Ashes forehead: The ritual isntplete yet. Youre not aplete Touch. Youre just a semi-finished product.


    Only by killing you can the ceremony bepleted, and Heaths illusion descend upon this world.


    Ashe looked at Sylins fingers, What is Touch? What will happen after I die?


    I dont know, I dont know!


    Sylin hysterically pulled at his hair, Thats a secret of the Four Pirs, a ceremony only Heath can fullyprehend! Heath told his followers that he is not yet theplete Touch. After the ceremony, he will return from suffering, be freed from honor, fall from the sky, rise from the grave, and be the Touch that surpasses all! Thenhe will smear the world as he pleases!


    It sounds like I will surpass the so-called four-winged sorcerers after the ceremony, Ashes lips curled slightly, So, if you kill me, will I be an existencparable to the Blood Moon Supreme?


    Sylin stared at Ashe with a harsh gaze, You wont have the chance.


    Ashe whispered softly, So, youre going to hand me over to the Heresy Court?


    No, definitely not. Gerard might kill you, and the Blood Moon Tribunal will take your life I absolutely cant hand you over! Sylin shook his head vehemently, as if trying to shake off a fly, The arrogant sacred bloodline only wants to study you, the stubborn Moonshadow dont care about you at all!


    Only I understand your seriousness, only I can handle thisonly me


    Sylin whispered demonic words, Cut off your limbs, lock you in a puppet box, and ce you in the deepest basement on the third underground floor, maintaining your basic life with an infusion tube


    Thats right, this was the n.


    Ashes heart remained calm, he was satisfied with Sylins decision. If Sylin really handed him over to the Heresy Court, Ashe would never be able to escape from prison again. Even the dumbest prison would know to be wary of his purifying miracle.


    Ignoring everything else, just changing the frequency of sending Ashes life signs from once every ten minutes to once every second would mean that as soon as Ashe removed the chip, Gerard would be right on his heels.


    No matter how many obstacles Sylin added outside, they were not as straightforward as the chip ban. Ashe didnt care about physical disability, as long as he could enter the Virtual Realm, he would eventually have the power to break the game.


    Moreover, Ashe was notpletely devoid of resistance now.


    Substitute, sword heart, sh Me Miracle, these skills that Ashepletely mastered, he could activate without arcane energy.


    But this treepletely restrained his mobility, and his resistance was futile for now.


    The best time for him to escape would be when Sylin was preparing to transport him. He had followed Gesas here, observing the surrounding security situation. If Sylin wanted to kill him, he would kill the surrounding guards and draw the hunters over.


    The hunters want to kill me, while Sylin wants to save my life. If handled properly, it could even spark a conflict between Sylin and the hunters. If it causes mass casualties, I could even exploit Fernand Snows recent speech to ignite racial conflicts and ss contradictions, and then one thought after another spun to life and died in Ashes mind, quickly forming a rudimentary conspiracy.


    The worst-case scenario would be him being imprisoned in a basement, bing an immobile, boxed, puppet whose world reduced to a heartbeat.


    Ashe was indifferent to the tragic fate he was about to face, not nervous, not fearful, not excited.


    He seemed to have removed himself from this body, quietly watching the fate of Ashe Heath.


    Pain, loneliness, torment, these could not shake his will, because in his world


    In his worldthere was also the Swordswoman?


    His thoughts broke off here, Ashe jerked up, his pupils regaining their luster.


    It was hard to describe the feeling. It was as if Ashe was on the verge of taking flight, about to transcend this world when suddenly, an unseen string yanked him down, causing him to crash harshly onto the ground. Then, the sound of air flowing, the fragrance of earth, the pulsing of his heartbeat, all sensations flooded into his mind at once.


    It was as if Ashe had just awoken from a deep sleep.


    At that moment, there were strange noisesing from Sylin.


    Sylin Dor, you cant run away any longer, he whispered. You are free now, you cant avoid it anymore.


    An elf pulled a ckwood dagger from a drawer, walked over to Ashe, held the dagger upside down, and with a gentle push


    It pierced his own throat.


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 Chapter 158: Ritual Miracle – Forbidden Rite of the Origin of the Virtual Palette

    Chapter 158: Ritual Miracle �C Forbidden Rite of the Origin of the Virtual Palette


    Sylin drove the dagger into his throat without piercing the windpipe. Instead, he drew the dagger downwards to his waist.


    He cut through his dense shirt, drawing a straight line of blood that neatly divided his upper body into two halves.


    Ashes face changed, Youve changed your mind.


    Yes.


    Sylin threw away the dagger, pulled his long hair back to his ears, regained his elf-like elegance, his expression calm, his voice gentle, Imprisoning you is just my naive wishful thinking. You are the Touch that Heath summoned with great effort. You even escaped from Shattered Lake Prison, how could I possibly imprison you?


    There are too many idents in this world. As long as the Four Pirs are still watching you, idents are enough to prate all my arrangements.


    I cant imprison you, I cant kill you, I cant hand you over to the Heresy Court, and I cant even dy. The power of Touch may allow you to escape at any time.


    So, I came to a conclusion.


    The elf extended his middle finger and index finger from both hands like hooks, inserted them into his chest along the blood line he just cut.


    It must be now, it must be here, it must be me. Sylin stated calmly, I want to purify you.


    Ashe tilted his head slightly, In my understanding, purification is simr to healing


    Purification means to drive out impurities, destroy invaders, and annihte parasites! Sylins green eyes were getting brighter, as if emitting light, And you, the iplete Touch that dwells in Heath, are the target to be purified!


    I was originally going to use this miracle to destroy Heath  but I could never dare to, I was always afraid, thats why I became Heaths puppet, thats why I made so many mistakes. Touch, I thank you, you gave me an opportunity to atone.


    Ashe squinted his eyes, But wont you kill me this way? Once I die, the ritual will bepleted


    Therefore, I used this forbidden miracle.


    Sylin was glowing.


    His green eyes, his blood, his ck hair, his skin, every color on him was glowing brilliantly, he was just like he had turned into an oil painting.


    Not only you, but all the arrangements of the Four Pirs on you, all the marks engraved by Heath on your body, will bepletely banished without a trace. Everything that does not belong to this body will be thoroughly purified.


    Ashe took a deep breath, Sylin, you are just a Two-winged Gold Sorcerer, do you have such a great ability?


    Of course I dont, but the Virtual Realm does.


    Sylin suddenly showed a faint smile, You attended my lecture on Ancient Ritual Factions the day before yesterday, didnt you?


    Ashes pupils shrank, Forbidden ritual


    There was actually one thing I didnt say at that time. Sylin looked like he was giving a live lecture, If you force a Two-wing Sorcerer to be a sacrifice by special means, you can pray for a full strike of a Four-wing Sorcerer at most.


    But if a Two-wing Sorcerer voluntarily performs the highest-level forbidden ritual, this sincerity will be recognized by the Virtual Realm, and even the power beyond Four-wings can be prayed from the Virtual Realm!


    Under the protection of the Blood Moon Supreme, the Four Pirs can give you a blessing at the Four-wing level at most. Sylin showed a happy smile, Fate still favors me. In Caimon City, only I can just right remove you, the Touch.


    Ashes thoughts turned quickly and hurriedly tried to persuade, We dont have to get to this point of life and death. Since I now know you are also forced, I wont bother you anymore in the future. Actually, I n to leave the Blood Moon Realm, why dont you help me leave the Blood Moon? This way, when I leave, you dont have to sacrifice your life, its a win-win for everyone, how about it?


    Touch, what do you think I am?


    Sylin sneered, President of the Elf Rights Association? Councillor? The hidden mastermind behind the bandits? A professor? A self-interested scrounger? A cowardly immortal?


    Im 203 years old this year. When I was born, the Blood Moon Tribunal hadnt started yet; after I came of age, I participated in the foreign hunting festivals; Ive traveled throughout the Blood Moon Realm, witnessed the destruction of old cities and the rise of new ones; all the suffering and entertainment in the world, I have seen and even experienced.


    Do you actually think I would hesitate to give up this dying life? There was mockery in Sylins eyes, If it werent for deaths inability to resist Heathsmand, if it werent for thew prohibiting suicide, I would have long wanted to step into Blood Moon Heaven!


    Ashe was taken aback, Immortality disease? Do you wish for the Lamp of Hope to extinguish inside of you?


    Immortality disease? No, I dont have a Lamp of Hope in my heart, because there is something warmer and more beautiful than it.


    Sylin revealed a smile, behind him was the majestic and beautiful Blood Moon. The light of the Blood Moon gently draped over him, as if a deity was blessing him.


    I have long wanted to perish together with Heath, but I cant resist Heath. I have always been waiting for this opportunity, I dont seek revenge, I just want to prove


    I still deeply love this Blood Moon.


    Ritual Miracle Origin Prohibition of Virtual Color Painting.


    Sylins hands, prated in the middle by a blood line, violently pulled apart, his chest was torn open like a curtain!


    What came into Ashes view was not the fresh red blood and purple guts, but colors!


    Vibrant colors, gushing from Sylins chest, flooded Ashe like a river!


    The flowernguage of iron Begonia and lotus is loyalty, he said softly.


    At this time, what suddenly came to Ashes mind was Valcas since Sylin wasnt voluntarily hunting Ashe, why would the failed assassin Valcas be despised and hated by Sylin?


    Sylin didnt despise him because Valcas failed the mission.


    He despised him because Valcas wanted toplete the mission!


    Just now, Sylin had said that the reward for Valcass mission was reunion with his biological child.


    By epting the mission, Valcas indicated that he hadnt repented and still wanted to rebel against thews of the Blood Moon Realm! For the Blood Moon believer Sylin, this was an unforgivable mistakews are the will of the gods, rules are the desire of the gods, Valcas was tantamount to spheming Sylins faith!


    In my death, when the skinning twins strip my skin, when the scarlet handmaidens draw my blood, when the priests of the night shadow sort my bones, when the blessed angels guide my soul


    Sylin closed his eyes, softly reciting a prayer for himself.


    He thought he would see the messenger who would guide him, but what came to his mind was a sealed page.


    A young Sylin sat cross-legged on the wooden floor, watching a baby elf clumsily crawl towards him, making a gesture to be held. He smiled and held the baby in his arms, wiping the drool from the babys mouth with a handkerchief.


    Read after me, Val-cas.


    Valcas?


    No, Im not Valcas, Im Sylin.


    Sylin?


    Yes, you are Valcas, I am Sylin.


    Sylin!!~


    And I will reunite in the promisednd.


    With thest ssh of color, the elf schrs robe lightly fell onto the carpet, devoid of its wearer.


    The moonlight fell on the pure white fabric, reflecting the purest blood color.


    In the vast study, only Ashe Heath was left.


    Without the supply of arcane energy, the tree that trapped Ashe quickly wilted and decayed, turning into fragile debris at a touch.


    Ashe looked down at his own hands, his eyes filled with confusion.


    It seems Im okay?


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 Chapter 159: New Job – Socially Unemployed Individual

    Chapter 159: New Job �C Socially Unemployed Individual


    Apocalypse Observer


    Human-Male-25 years old


    Trust Level:


    Job: Socially Unemployed Individual


    Job Trait: The appetite of spirits is reduced, feeding requirements are reduced by 50%.


    Innate Talent-Sorcerer Handbook (Median): Log other operators into the handbook, the experience gained by other operators will be shared with this character ording to the proportion of Trust Level. The current number of pages in the handbook is 1/2 (the talent limit can be unlocked after strength improvement).


    Personal Skill-Exotic Wandering Soul: Effect unknown.


    Silver Blessing: Observers Visage: Your appearance is deceptive, unless you make an unusual move, others will unconsciously ignore your existence. In the Virtual Realm, this blessing is strengthened, unless there is intimate trust, others cant see your face clearly.


    Held Items: Honeyed Words, Dagger in Heart, Virtual World Telescope, Alchemists Refining Bottle.


    Controlling Spirits: Sword Heart, Substitute, Circte, Earth Sword, Wind Barrier


    Sword Art Faction: Silver Level


    Light Faction: Silver Level


    Water Art Faction: Silver Level


    Heart Sect: Silver Level


    Virtual Realm Exploration: 1.022%


    Curse of Knowledge: Whirlpool Venom, Eviction Venom, Golden Fish Secret Poison


    Ashe sat in Sylins ce, staring at the words floating in mid-air, lost in thought.


    After losing the chip, he naturally couldnt call up the light screen, but the game Auroras Sorcerer Handbook is not bound to the light screen, but to Ashe.


    He could still call up the Sorcerer Handbook interface, but the resolution dropped from 4K ultra-clear to 360P. Apart from the Sword Princesss portrait bing a bit more cartoonish from pure and desire, there was no significant impact.


    Although Ashe felt that Sylins miracle had not affected him, when he opened his operator file, he noticed a change after a while  his job had changed from Cult Leader/Ancient Historian to Socially Unemployed Individual!


    But the game did not pop up any prompts, and Ashe had not been paying constant attention to his status information. After all, the Sword Princesss portrait had be so cartoonish, he had been toozy to open the game interface these days, let alone open his own operator file.


    Ashe couldnt determine whether the change in his job was the effect of Sylins miracle, or the consequence of his jailbreak  after all, after his jailbreak, he did indeed change from a full-board employee of a state-owned unit to a socially unemployed individual, which makes perfect sense.


    After pondering for a moment, Ashe decided to give up thinking about this issue.


    However,pared to the useless Cult Leader/Ancient Historian luck check +10 and ancient relic identification ability +5, the new job trait is clearly much more practical  the feeding cost of spirits is halved!


    It seems as if the spirits knew that Ashe had lost his iron rice bowl, so they happily weed the sry reduction  I eat very little and am easy to raise.


    Closing the game panel, Ashe looked at his resume file.


    This is the Ashe-Heath Resumepiled by Sylin, which includes the awards Heath received in the foster home, middle school, and university, the part-time jobs he had done, friends evaluations of Heath, Heaths photos at different ages, and even Heaths Canopy browsing records, which can be described asprehensive and detailed.


    The file was well organized, reading it didnt feel dull at all, soon Ashe had a clear picture of Heaths life trajectory in his mind: His talent was judged as elite level at birth and sent to the city-level demonstrative foster home; He got into middle school with the 36th ce in the entrance exam and entered the History Department under the Time Department of Caimon Comprehensive University with a mediocre performance in the college entrance exam; After graduation, he started a business and began to preach based on a pyramid scheme.


    He didnt eat candy, didnt gamble, didnt go to the Tea Caf, nor had he ever worked part-time at Mud Cafe; his voting record in the Blood Moon Tribunal was zero.


    Apart from his apartment and school, Heaths favorite ce to go was the convenience store downstairs. Apart from daily necessities, the most items Heath purchased were all sorts of books. Ashe noticed several familiar titles in there: The Crowd: A Study of the Popr Mind, How to Induce a Virtual Realm Storm with Bare Hands, Criminal Law. Many friends who knew Heath thought of him as low-profile (unimpressive), respectful and polite (boring in conversation), strong individual capability (doesnt socialize).


    But there was one thing about Heath that terrified Ashe  in Heaths browsing history on the Canopy, all he found were political, historical, military, sorcerer, religious, and racial information. There was absolutely no record of browsing any erotic videos, pictures, or novels!


    Forget about human females, even if it were a beastman and an ogre, Ashe might not agree but he could understand. However, there were no such records!


    The only thing that could remotely be associated with lust was the rumored female beastman army, the Tyrant Flower Troop. They were said to go on a mating hunt during their breeding season, turning captured male beastmen into fuel stations after chopping off their limbs. They were formidable with terrifying brutality.


    But female beastmen Heath couldnt possibly have a truck drivers license, could he?


    In conclusion, a fine young man of 25 who didnt indulge in adult content and never exerted any effort to satisfy his sexual desires, was definitely not a normal person.


    However, the documents also showed that Heath didnt have any abnormal experiences. It seemed like he had suddenly started a business out of nowhere. The records didnt mention how Heath had obtained the data on the Four Pirs Religion. Ashe originally thought that Professor Sylin was the puppet master behind the scenes and that he had given the information to Heath. But Sylin was only concerned with the Blood Moon, so it was clearly not the Elves causing trouble.


    Ashe found a record highlighted in red by Sylin in the file. It was Heaths leave record. Eight years ago, when Heath was still a middle school student, he had taken a half-month study leave, during which there were no eyewitness ounts.


    Eight yearseight years ago?


    Igor once mentioned that Sylin had participated in archaeological excavations of ruins eight years ago and had unearthed some ritual texts of the Four Pirs Religion. However, in the same year, the ruins suffered a Virtual Realm storm, resulting in the loss of most of the findings.


    But Heath was only 17 years old eight years ago


    Ashe had thought that he would be able to get revenge this time and solve the mystery of Heath. However, Heath turned out to be like a matryoshka doll, revealing anotheryer as soon as one was removed.


    Ashe also had to consider another possibility: Sylin was telling the truth, but they were all lies to deal with the Heresy Court.


    After all, in this world, memory modification existed. Knowing that Heath might betray him at any moment, Sylin could modify his own memory, me everything on Heath, and portray himself as a devout believer who only thought of the country and the two moons. This was also a possible scenario, and the likelihood was high.


    Although the situation was still shrouded in mystery, Ashe decided to temporarily stop investigating Heaths background. As Heaths number one hater and secret fan, the information that Sylin had collected was probably the most detailed andprehensive to date. This was all there was to Heath in reality.


    If Heath did have unknown adventures, they were either in dreams or the Virtual Realm.


    To be honest, Ashe was about to leave the Blood Moon Realm, and no matter howplicated Heaths background was, it was nothing more than someone elses story to him.


    But Ashe had a strong premonition that even if he left the Blood Moon, Heaths past would still haunt him like a shadow. It was like seeing an author mention a gun in a detective story; the gun was bound to go off in the story. Heath had put in so much effort, surely it wasnt just to send Ashe to enjoy life in Shattered Lake Prison?


    Four Pirs, Heath, Touch, ceremony Ashe noted down these bits of information in his little notebook. If he didnt run into rted characters, fine, but if he did in the Virtual Realm, they could not me him for being ruthless together with the Swordswoman.


    Next up was the time to collect the spoils. Ashe rummaged through everything, and in total, found 4 Gold Coins, 5 Silver Coins, arge number of luxurious items that looked like they could be sold for money, and 5 spirit cocoons.


    This is where the credit currency system destroys the traditional robbery industry. Although physical currency is still in cirction, the vast majority of people are ustomed to making payments using Chips and only carry a small amount of emergency cash in their daily lives.


    Sylins total assets were probably calcted in tens of thousands of Gold Coins, but he only needed to carry a few Gold and Silver Coins to satisfy the feeding of spirits. There wouldnt be that much cash at home. Compared to these few Gold and Silver Coins, the luminescent watch that Sylin wore was probably worth more.


    Among the 5 spirit cocoons, there were 3 Two-wing spirits, 1 single-wing spirit, and 1 three-wing spirit! This was an excellent harvest. However, Ashe couldnt bring himself to be happy.


    Because these spirit cocoons had chastity locks.


    Due to various trade and other needs, sorcerers invented many ways to seal spirits. The Glowing Sphere is the mostmon technique, which directly stuffs the spirit into the sphere. The spirit enters a dormant state and the feeding frequency decreases by 70%. Its a good choice to seal it in a Glowing Sphere to reduce feeding costs when a sorcerer acquires extra spirits but doesnt need them at the moment.


    However, the downside of the Glowing Sphere is also severe. There are no defensive measures. Once the sphere is damaged, it will cause the spirit to escape. Furthermore, anyone who gets the sphere can directly control the ownerless spirit. The spirit in the sphere is like money taken out of the bank, with the possibility of being stolen or damaged.


    The spirit cocoons in front of Ashe are a more advanced sealing method. Spirits sealed in the cocoon stop all activities, do not need feeding, and most importantly, there are three wheel locks on them. Only by inputting arcane energy under the correct password can the spirit cocoon be dissolved.


    If the password is wrong, the spirit cocoon will automatically lock and can only be unlocked by finding the sorcerer who cast the spell. Its said to be a miracle equivalent to that of the Saint level, so a Two-wing Sorcerer has almost no chance to violently break it. Even if it can be broken by force, the spirit cocoon will most likely self-destruct along with the spirit inside.


    Perhaps some people find it strange. Is it necessary to use a three-wing Saints miracle to store spirits? But in a stable civilized society, spirits not only have use value, but they also have the potential to be luxury items.


    The only single-wing spirit in the spirit cocoons is such a luxury item. It looks like a cicada, with a green exterior hiding a golden interior. This is a Reverse Moon spirit.


    The Reverse Moon is a consumption spirit that will disappear once used. Its effect is simple return the real state of a designated object to a month ago.


    If used on an old sorcerer, the physical state of the sorcerer will return to a month ago, but the arcane energy, memories, and spirits wrapped in their soul will not change. That is, it can extend the subjects life by a month to a certain extent.


    Aside from the Reverse Day spirit, which is used as an emergency healing spirit, the Reverse Moon and Reverse Year spirits are considered side-effect-free life-extending spirits and are very popr in the market with extremely high prices. Ashe heard about this from the Sword Princess during casual conversations. In her words, it was You can really make a fortune by picking up trash in thend of time spirits.


    This Reverse Moon spirit was clearly stored as a gift, and the other spirits should have a simr purpose. Theres even a dual-winged sword spirit, which is quite rare. However, after some thought, Ashe made a decision that was contrary to the principles of the Sword Princess.


    Sessful recharge! Youve gained 8 points.


    Sessful recharge! Youve gained 20 points. 3


    Sessful recharge! Youve gained 40 points.


    Spirit cocoons cant be taken away. Theyre too big to fit in a pocket. Even if they could be moved, Ashe didnt have the means to dissolve them, so feeding them to the greedy Operator system was the best choice.


    But getting only 40 points for a triple-winged spirit is such a rip-off


    After another round of searching without finding anything new, Ashe began tob through the information Sylin had left behind. To kill Ashe Heath, Sylin must have racked his brains guessing Heaths escape route, trying to block all possible loopholes. Therefore


    Sylin might have helped him n the most sessful escape route!


    Ashe quickly found what he was looking for.


    Report of the 49th virtual gateway observation point (Top Secret)


    April 21, 1668, 13:11, observed a water surge phenomenon, the other side of the gateway is an underground river, abandoned.


    Report of the 53rd virtual gateway observation point (Top Secret)


    April 30, 1668, 17:36, Rabbit returned, the other side of the gateway is a deserted wilderness, safe, can hold a hunting festival.


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 Chapter 160: Igor and Emma

    Chapter 160: Igor and Emma


    Cramped, dark, and chaotic.


    To Igors right was arge cardboard box filled with more than twenty boxes of tissues, probably purchased during a big sale. On top of the box was a box-type heater and various other household items not currently in use. To his left was a tightly shut door.


    This was a storage room, and it had been his dwelling for the past five days.


    The obvious feeling of hunger in his stomach indicated that it was around 6 in the evening, and Emma should be back soon to feed him.


    Reflecting on his life over the past few days, Igor couldnt help but sigh. Although he had achieved his goal, managing to remain unharmed under the extensive search and pursuit of the Heresy Court, the way he aplished this was somewhat specialhe had been kept by Emma like a dog for these days.


    Literally a dog, Igor tugged at the cor around his neck, feeling an inexplicable sense of irony.


    He had finally managed to remove the chip cor from the back of his neck for the sake of freedom, but now, for the same reason, he willingly wore a real cor.


    As for why Emma Lekthas, a hunter of the Heresy Court, was willing to shelter him, the story traced back to three years ago, when Igor was working part-time at the Mud Cafe.


    Although males with the Charming Baby Bloodline often worked part-time at the Mud Cafe  much like Ogres who had regr jobs would paint oil paintings after work  Igor rarely did so. Mainly because working as a Mud Worker was too slow in terms of ie; scamming was much more satisfying.


    When Igor was willing to work part-time at the Mud Cafe, it could only mean one thing: the cafe could facilitate his fraudulent business.


    The Gambling Color Apocalypse was exactly such a ce. It was a Mud Cafe/Tea Caf dual operation. One might think it was a casino from its name, and in fact, it was. Customers had to purchase initial chips with real money to participate in various gambling activities.


    What set it apart from other casinos was what they gambleddomination time.


    Customers could freely find a dealer they liked to gamble with, and both parties could use 60-minute chips. If a customer won all 60 minutes from a dealer, it meant they couldmand the dealer for 60 minutes, and the dealer had toply with the customers requests. Conversely, if the dealer won the customers 60 minutes, the dealer couldmand the customer for that amount of time.


    Yes, regardless of win or loss, dealers would have fun with the customers, because the customers chips were bought with real money. They wouldnt let the customers go home with a confused face, a shop that didnt respect the customers demands would surely go out of business.


    In simple terms, it was a Mud Cafe/Tea Caf that capitalized on gambling, but its business was much better than other themed shops in the same industryreality proved that gambling was always the mechanism that could best stimte human impulses. Winning customers were ted, and losing customers, after being yed by the dealer, would be fired up with apetitive spirit, ready to take on more challenges. The shop had many repeat customers.


    The reason Igor worked part-time there was precisely because of the domination time. He would specifically target rich women, actively approach them, seduce them into challenges, and then win their 60 minutes.


    Once in the private rooms, under the guise of domination time, Igor could make the rich women swear oaths to him, like be good to me for a lifetime or give me your most precious things.


    The women, thinking it was a special fetish of the dealer, would readily agree. Then they would be bound by Igors contract spirit to keep their words. They had to keep their oaths, and couldnt even call the police, because that wouldnt be being good to Igor for a lifetime.


    These customers were not only conned out of all their wealth by Igor, but he also refused to mate with them, which was quite unprofessional.


    Besides wealthy women, asionally wealthy men would seek out Igor of their own ord. Igor would graciously ept them all, even making them swear oaths like not to have sexual desires for anyone other than me, thereby helping them thoroughly cure their human weakness of being tricked by beauty.


    In this way, Igor swindled money but not affection, greatly promoting the redistribution of social wealth with this part-time job. The efficiency even surpassed his full-time job for a time. However, the phrase smooth sailing never appears in the life of a Trickster. One night, Igor encountered Emma.


    To gain control, Igor, who had a high winning rate, quickly won the title of Gambling King in the shop. Therefore, there were those who didnt covet Igors body, but simply wanted topete with him for gambling skills. Emma was one of them.


    When Emma entered the shop, she did not hide her Moonshadow characteristics. Initially, Igor didnt want to provoke this privileged ss, but Emma specifically requested him, and others did not want topete with the Moonshadow. Thus, Igor had no choice but to serve.


    Emmas gambling skills were good, but in addition to his own skills, Igor, as a Trickster, had a deep understanding of human nature. This was his secret to winning. When Igor unsurprisingly defeated Emma, he had already decided not toy a finger on her, simply performing his job at the Mud Cafe as though he was bitten by a dog.


    However, Emma was not willing to admit defeat. She insisted on continuing to gamble, even repurchasing chips. Multiple chip purchases were allowed. To encourage customer spending, if a customer bought N times the chips, the Dealer had to provide N times the service time, regardless of whether they won or lost.


    Before the second round of gambling, Igor inexplicably asked Emma, If I win, can I make a wish thatsts 120 minutes?


    No problem.


    The contract was established.


    Unlike ordinary contracts, Igor proposed a quantity limit (one) and a time limit (120 minutes). The more restrictions a contract stiptes, the stronger its effect. After all, the other party was of the Moonshadow. Igors typical overbearing contracts that purely exploit others could potentially fail.


    But when Emma lost 300 minutes, things started to take a subtle turn. She seemed to have received an urgent message and left the Gambling Color Apocalypse directly. Igor soon found out that Emma was a Blood Mad Hunter.


    He immediately realized that he held a potentially valuable wish.


    Thereafter, Emma often came to the shop to gamble with Igor, switching between various gambling tools and methods. Emma won asionally, but generally, Igor dominated. The time limit of this wish, after being umted multiple times, amounted to 9000 minutes.


    Just as Igor was considering how to maximize the benefits of this wish, the Heresy Court arrested him in the Gambling Color Apocalypse.


    So thats why Emma kept gambling with him, and why she never suggested entering the gambling settlement phase.


    High-end Blood Mad Hunters often appear as prey in front of Tricksters.


    Because it was a sudden arrest, Igor had no time to modify his memories. When the Memory Master searched, oh ho, so youvemitted so many fraud cases, enjoy your time in the shatteredke.


    Although he was arrested, his contract with Emma was still valid. The Virtual Realm is the longest witness.


    So after breaking out of jail, Igor went straight to Emmas house and began his revenge on her, who was wearing pajamas: Imand you to help me escape from the Blood Moon Realm.


    Although it was a single wish, it could be broken down into three parts:


    Providing Igor with a safe ce to live and food;


    Not revealing any information about Igor;


    Helping Igor gather information.


    Emma fulfilled all of them.


    Therefore, Igor remained in this cramped storage room, waiting every day for Emma toe home to feed him. He couldnt even say that Emma had broken the contractthe most it could be was that she fulfilled his requirements in the most humiliating way possible.


    Click.


    It was the sound of a key opening the door. Emma was home.


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 Chapter 161: Moonshadow

    Chapter 161: Moonshadow


    The living room was filled with the upbeat melodies of pop music. Emma had a peculiar taste, enjoying these boisterous tunes. Even worse was her singing along in her less-than-ster voice, an act that felt like a double taboo.


    No one can share this with me, hiding in the quilt, ying~


    With a tter, the door to the storeroom opened. Emma, who was just singing, immediately put on a straight face and silently ced two tes in front of Igor.


    On the left te was dog food, and on the right, clear water.


    Igor looked up at Emma, timidly raised his right hand, to which Emma nodded, and he rushed off to the washroom.


    When he returned, he obedientlyy on the floor, eating just like a pet. Igor didnt feel any psychological pressure from this kind of humiliation that didnt touch his interests. It was unable to scratch the soul of the Trickster.


    However, Emma was quite satisfied, crouching next to him and saying, I found some information. Observation Point 53 has been confirmed as aplete virtual gateway.


    Igor looked up sharply, Then


    SMACK!


    Emma suddenly pped Igors head hard, creating a loud noise. Her pretty and cute face was covered in shadow, appearing fierce and violent.


    Igor obediently raised his hand, and Emma immediately broke into a smile, You can speak.


    When will the first exploration of Observation Point 53 take ce?


    Tonight, 0 oclock on May 2nd, when the Blood Moon dims. Emma said, The Lakeview War Zone has transferred a group of adventurers over there. Ive prepared the Adventurers Standard Outfit and a bicycle for you. There are still 5 hours before midnight. You have enough time to get there. As for whether you can blend into the team of adventurers, its up to you.


    Igor was taken aback. He felt that Emma would help him, but he didnt expect her to arrange everything so perfectly.


    Whether it was living in the storeroom, eating dog food, or wearing a cor, Igor could resist. But he chose to appease Emma because she was his hope to escape from the Blood Moon. Offending her would only hasten his own doom.


    Not to mention information about Observation Point 53. Although Emma had to tell Igor due to contractual limitations, the timing was at her discretion.


    If Emma told Igor at 11 oclock, he would miss the best opportunity to escapethe first wave of exploration of the virtual gateway. This would be the time with the most loopholes and the easiest to blend in!


    Emma not only informed Igor in time but also helped him prepare to blend into the team of adventurers. Igor couldnt help but feel touched, Thank you, thank you for helping me so much.


    Emma was slightly surprised, then showed a sweet smile, her wolf tail wagging triumphantly, Youre wee!


    Suddenly, she pulled Igor up, Come on, lets eat.


    Ah? Igor looked at the dog food in the te, Am I not supposed to eat this?


    Good kids dont need to eat snacks. Emma let him sit down, Ill make something delicious for you.


    Although she said that, Emmas cooking skills only went as far as I know how to use this kitchen utensil. She took out some semi-cooked food from the fridge, heated it up, and put it on the table. But for Igor, who had been eating dog food for several days, being able to sit and eat with a spoon felt like a high-ss restaurant treatment.


    Just as Igor was about to start eating, he saw Emma folding her hands in prayer, Thank you for the sun and rain given by the Blood Moon, which brings us plentiful food from the earth.


    Igor noticed Emma sneaking nces at him. After a moments hesitation, he also followed her in prayer before the meal. Emma was very satisfied, and while eating, she asked, We havent gambled in a long time, do you want to bet on something?


    Igor: But were eating right now.


    Gambling with food, what an idea! Igor, youre so clever,e up with something fun! Emma said excitedly.


    Igor did not want to oppose her here. After pondering a moment, he said, Alright, the game is this: we each take turns eating 1 to 3 bites of food. Whoever happens to eat thest bite wins.


    What an interesting bet! Emma said, What should we wager?


    A question, Igor replied. The loser must answer a question honestly.


    No problem! Haha, Igor, youre bound to lose this time. My record is one L Fatty per bite!


    Just like before, Emma never cared about the size of the bet. But the key to winning this game wasnt the size of ones appetite, but rather the order of who went first and their calcting abilities. Under Igors simple operation, Emma ate most of the food, but thest bite was taken by Igor.


    Emma patted her belly contentedly and sighed, Ah, I lost again. That makes the score 185 losses to 12 wins


    Igor, having changed into his Adventurers Standard Outfit, pulled up his face mask and put on his hood. He looked at Emma with some surprise, You actually kept track of our betting tally?


    Of course, how could I forget such an important thing? Emma casually wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, dug out a key from her pocket, and tossed it to Igor. The bike is at spot no. 16 downstairs.


    Igor caught the key, Im sorry to trouble you. If Im caught, the Memory Master will find evidence of your help in my memory. I dont have time to find the Memory Master to erase my memory


    Its fine. Emma waved her hand dismissively. Isnt it normal for friends to help each other?


    Friends?


    A smirk curled the corner of Igors mouth. But Im a criminal, and youre a Blood Mad Hunter.


    So what? Emma cocked her head at Igor, her feet curled up on the chair, her tail bending inward, a look of confusion on her face.


    Youre a criminal, Im a Blood Mad Hunter, but what does that have to do with us being friends? When we y together, were just ying a gambling game, not a game of hunter and criminal


    Ive never heard of someone locking their friend in a storeroom and feeding them dog food, Igor said coldly.


    Youre a rude, bad kid. Isnt it normal to be punished? Emma retorted righteously, You still havent admitted your mistake!


    What mistake should I admit? I was locked in a storeroom on the first day!


    Unreasonable, iprehensible.


    Igor shook his head, went to the entrance to put on his boots, and Emma came over saying, Are you leaving now? Be careful on the road.


    Right, I won the bet just now. As the winner, I have the right to ask you a question, and you have to answer me honestly.


    Go ahead.


    Was I arrested by the Heresy Court because you reported me?


    Emma blinked, her face showing confusion.


    You were arrested by the Heresy Court? I was wondering why you disappeared for over a year Wait a minute, are you saying youre an escaped convict? So you really were a criminal?


    Igor was shocked, Didnt you see my wanted poster?


    The hunt for the escaped convict was the captains responsibility. Ive been in charge of deputy mayors security work recently Emma shook her head, As for your arrest by the Heresy Court, I didnt even know who you were, how could I report you Wait a minute.


    Come to think of it, I was suddenly congratted by everyone a year ago. They said that I volunteered to be the bait and lured a cunning Trickster into a trap. Even the captain praised me, treated me to a grand meal. I didnt know what had happened, and I just ate the meal in a daze, and even got promoted


    Although it sounded unbelievable, Igor felt that Emma was not lying.


    From the moment he met her, Emma seemed to be a very cute and naive type, which was why Igor had exploited her to umte a contract time of 9000 minutes. He had seen that she was easy to take advantage of.


    In his heart, Igor didnt want to believe that Emma was the one who reported him, otherwise he wouldnt have asked the question, because it meant a serious w in his judgment of people.


    If he couldnt even distinguish whether a client was a dog or a wolf, he would basically lose his qualifications as a trickster.


    Luckily, Emma didnt disappoint him. She was indeed a natural fool, and the Heresy Court had just happened to catch him, not because he had actively walked into Emmas trap. The only person in the world who could deceive him was still that underdeveloped cult leader.


    Thinking of this, Igor couldnt help but breathe a sigh of relief and smile: Thank you, Emma.


    But Emma was not satisfied and asked: Dont you have anything else to say to me? Like an apology or something


    Im sorry for causing you so much trouble


    Ive said its okay, not that!


    So what was it then? Even as a Spirit Art Master, Igor still couldnt figure out what Emma was thinking, so he simply pushed the door and left: Thank you for your care, I hope we have the chance to meet again in the future.


    Ill definitely win next time! Emma shouted loudly.


    On the way out of the apartment, Igor let out a long sigh, sweeping away the gloom of being locked up these past few days, and his steps became lighter.


    Emma, besides having a big temper and a bad habit of treating people like dogs, was also a good client. Given enough time, Igor was even confident he could develop Emma into his own undercover agent in the Heresy Court.


    After all, Emma surprisingly valued friendship. She wore her emotions on her sleeve, was straightforward in her thinking, didnt mind breaking rules, and acted just like a child


    Igor found the bike Emma had prepared. Just as he was about to leave, he suddenly heard Emmas voice from above.


    Next time you ask for help, say please first! Emma shouted from the balcony without any restraint: Dont be so rude in the future!


    Igor was slightly taken aback, he could only nod quickly and ride away from the awkward scene of the incident.


    He wondered why Emma had suddenly said such a thing, and it took him a while to realize that when he first found Emma, he indeed didnt say please.


    Igor found this both irritating and amusing. Could it be that Emma was angry because he didnt say please when he initially told her Imand you to help me escape from the Blood Moon Realm?


    Youre a rude little brat, isnt it normal to be punished?


    Screech!


    Igor abruptly braked and looked back at the apartment building where Emma lived.


    He recalled some information about the Moonshadow Tribe.


    The members of the Moonshadow Tribe came from two sources. Apart from adults who became priests through church exams, there was another way  when the Beloved Church evaluated the potential of babies, they would keep the children whose talents most suited the Moonshadow Tribe and send them directly to the churchs foster home for cultivation.


    Unlike most foster homes, the churchs foster home waspletely closed and did not ept social supervision.


    Regr foster homes, good or bad, had to install cameras to allow the public to see the situation inside. They could have child fights, but they absolutely did not allow staff to physically punish the children.


    You could educate through verbal warnings, resource bias, and even collective istion, but you could not directly harm the children or deprive them of their freedom; the children had the right to refuse.


    Because of the closed nature of the churchs foster home, many people suspected that it was conducting militarized cultivation.


    However, the Moonshadow priests whoe out of the Beloved Churchs Foster Home often dispel peoples doubts. Compared to the vast majority of people in the Blood Moon Realm, the Moonshadow priests are so pure, adorable, passionate, innocent, diligent, and polite  they are like grown-up little angels.


    In passing, the Heresy Court is only responsible for hunting down evil. If a Blood Moon citizen encounters issues like neighbor conflicts, lost pets, a light bulb stuck in the mouth, tongue stuck to a rail, body stuck in a washing machine, the Heresy Court is of no use. The correct approach is to seek the Church.


    As long as they receive a request for help, no matter what time it is, the nearest church will dispatch a Moonshadow priest to assist. Moonshadow priests are always cheerful and enthusiastic, never shy away from trouble, and face everything with patience. This has fostered the concept of seek the Church for trouble among Blood Moon people.


    Almost everyone has received help from a Moonshadow priest, and no one dislikes them. Currently, 60% of the Blood Moon citizens are timely worshippers of the Church, the majority of whom are influenced by the Moonshadow priests. Therefore, they firmly believe that the Blood Moon Supreme, whom the Moonshadow priests pray to, indeed exists with ultimate benevolence and kindness.


    One of the main reasons Fernand Snows speech didnt cause muchmotion is the existence of the Moonshadow priests. If the benefits harvested from them were given to the sacred bloodline, everyone would undoubtedly be furious. But if its between the sacred bloodline and the Moonshadow, people hesitate  sacrificing for the Moonshadow seems more eptable.


    Theres a saying in Caimon City: The faux top-tier is the Jade Garden; the real top-tier is the Foster Home of the Church.


    As for the likes of Langna, calling him a werewolf is quite urate. His existence only tarnishes the name of Moonshadow.


    At this moment, Igor suddenly recalled his conversation with Langna before his jailbreak.


    The Beloved Church actually raised a Moonshadow like you, its really strange.


    Whats strange to me is that the Church didnt raise any other werewolves.


    So thats what it meant


    Actually, Igor should have guessed it earlier  how could an adult be afraid of being locked in a storeroom? Igor wasnt afraid even without a Chip. If Igor had a Chip, he could even carry out Canopy anonymous fraud in the storeroom.


    Only naive children would fear such confinement punishment.


    And moreover, Emma clearly didnt have a dog at home, so why did she have dog food? She even pointed at the dog food and said it was a snack.


    Adding to that her unusual emphasis on politeness and her childlike character, the truth was bing clear.


    Igor looked up at the slowly rising Blood Moon, shook his head gently, and pedaled hard on his bike to escape.


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 Chapter 162: Authentic! Fantasy! Adventurer!

    Chapter 162: Authentic! Fantasy! Adventurer!


    Adventurer Code Name?


    Death Maniac Swordswoman.


    Gender?


    Male.


    The record keeper at the camp paused for a moment, his face unchanged. Please read and confirm adherence to the Adventurer Agreement No. 430 and the Secrecy Agreement. Here is the printout


    epted.


    Please show your adventurers badge.


    Ashe, wearing a mask, pulled out a round badge and slid it across the ss screen of the check-in device. The screen lit up green. The recorder nodded, Registrationpleted, you may enter.


    Without any hindrance, Ashe easily stepped into the Observation Point No. 53 Camp. A crude earthen wall that was thirty meters high isted the inside from the outside. At the very center of the camp was a tall tower, and atop it was a deep blue swirl, Ashes target for this trip: the Level 2 Virtual Realm Turbulent Passage.


    All vegetation in the camp had been cleared, reced by rows of benches. Many adventurers gathered to chat, pulling out bottles of wine to discuss the wide world, then popping a piece of Moon Sugar into their mouths and convulsing  drinking and eating sugar was a heavenly joy.


    From time to time, there were shouts:


    me Squad,e this way!


    Wolves, gather here!


    Falgar, Falgar, where is Falgar from the Coffin Bearer team?


    Apart from these noisy individuals, there were also many lone wolves like Ashe, wearing standard cloaks and masks, mysteriously observing with cold eyes.


    Such chaos was the diverse representation of adventurers in the war zone.


    When Ashe looked at the adventurer information on the Canopy, he couldnt help but apud the Blood Moon Realms superb level of exploitation and oppression  because under the social atmosphere of human rights and freedom and racial equality, the military expenses required by conscription were just too high. So, the Blood Moon Realm decided to simply get rid of its army!


    The Blood Moon Realm disbanded its army 300 years ago and entirely switched to the adventurer system.


    The so-called adventurer system involves the war zone providing tasks, adventurers epting andpleting these tasks, and then receiving rewards from the war zone. The rtionship between the war zone and the adventurers is only contractual, with the adventurers free toe and go. In theory, this could indeed share some of the armys duties.


    The greatest benefit of the adventurer system is naturally not having to provide training costs, not having to deal with logistics, and not having to offerpensation.


    Its not the war zones concern if an adventurer dies. If an adventurer doesnt want to work, they can go. There are plenty of people behind them eager to ept tasks. The war zone doesnt have to worry about human rights, after all, the rtionship is not even that of an employer-employee, but a temporary contractual one.


    Simply put, because forming an army requires treating soldiers as people, its too expensive; recruiting adventurers only requires treating adventurers as tools. Theres no need to waste money on race, human rights, and other extraneous factors, thus significantly reducing costs.


    In the first year of implementing the adventurer system, the Blood Moon Realm saved 80% of its military expenditure.


    And the most wonderful part is, switching from conscription to the adventurer system had no negative impact on the Blood Moon Realm.


    The reason is that the Blood Moon Realm has no hard military needs for suppressing rebellions, defending borders, or disaster relief.


    Theres no need to suppress rebellions, especially when considering the anti-love education implemented by the Blood Moon Realm. The chip at the back of everyones neck makesrge-scale rebellions impossible.


    There are no natural disasters, the meteorological bureau takes care of everything before a disaster could happen. As for the virtual realm disasters caused by sorcerers, naturally, sorcerers have to solve them, the army cant help with that.


    As for the borders, in the words of the Canopy, the Blood Moon Supreme has already helped us resist the external enemies, so theres no need for an army stationed at the borders.


    Maintaining public safety, capturing criminals, preventing cults, and other affairs are the responsibility of the Heresy Court.


    Thus, the military was left with only two functions: emergency troops and suppression of the Abyss scattered across thendscape. These responsibilities could be entirely shouldered by adventurers. Therefore, even though efficiency hadnt improved after the military system transitioned to the adventurer system, it hadnt decreased either. Groups of adventurers subsequently took the stage in history.


    As a violent organization, adventurers were a diverse group. Among them werebat sorcerers who devoted themselves to protect the Blood Moon and hone their skills. There were also opportunists seeking to gain resources from the war zones, and even wanted criminals who sought refuge and survival in the war zones.


    Yes, war zones were willing to shelter wanted criminals, and the Heresy Court wouldnt go into war zones to arrest people. For viins who hadmitted heinous crimes in the city and had nowhere else to go, the war zones were essentially their only sanctuary.


    For instance, the Woodpecker Gang controlled by Sylin had a branch in the Lakeview War Zone, which specialized in taking in members who had caused trouble. If Golden Mouth Ronat hadnt been captured, he would likely have gone to Lakeview to be an adventurer.


    When Ashe heard about the adventurer system while in prison from Igor, he asked if they could possibly make a living in the war zones after escaping. He dreamt of embarking on an exciting adventure, earning merit while clearing their names, and putting this strange cult leader back on the path of a fantastical journey.


    However, Igor coldly dismissed this fantasywhile the war zone didnt care whether you were a heinous viin or an offender guilty of racial discrimination due to bad breath, you had to have a Chip.


    Without a Chip, wanted criminals couldnt even enter the Safe Rest Area provided by the war zones. As the name suggests, this area would activate the Attack Prohibition in the adventurers Chips, preventing any attacks within the safe zone.


    Ignoring the fact that Ashe was unwilling to imnt a Chip, even if he were willing, he couldnt find a way. Imntation of Chips was a monopoly of the Beloved Church; even the underground ck market only provided purification services, not imntation.


    Thus, the five major criminals who escaped from prison had no way back after their Chips were removed.


    Furthermore, life as an adventurer wasnt as rosy as Ashe imagined. The war zones only epted Merit as currency. Regardless of how much money you had, you couldnt livefortably in the war zonesin fact, you might be fleeced. In the end, youd have to take on tasks, like monster hunting in the sewer abyss for a living.


    ording to statistics, only 25% of new adventurers could survive in the war zones for a year. Although most people returned to the city to work due to an inability to persist, this survival rate was still horrifying.


    To amodate such a diverse group of adventurers, the war zones also introduced the Adventurer Merit system. All mission rewards were Merits, and adventurers could exchange Merits for any rewards in the war zones, including but not limited to spirits, Miracle Techniques, Faction Knowledge, and so on.


    The ingenious part was that Merits were not registered on the Chips, but on the adventurer badges that they carried with them.


    Adventurer badges were anonymous.


    As long as you could present an adventurer badge, the war zone would exchange your Merits for rewards, regardless of whether the badge was yours, found, or taken by killing someone.


    It was only when Ashe discovered this mechanism that he fully understood the Blood Moon Realms intentions in implementing the adventurer system. With this method alone,rge-scale violent groups were fundamentally dissolved in the war zones. As long as the war zone could provide Merit exchange rewards, suspicion would always linger among adventurers.


    In the Blood Moon Realm, which even banned familial units, how could they allow the existence of a violent group like the military?


    Althoughrge groups didnt exist, small adventurer teams of five or six people were countless. In this camp alone, there were seven or eight such teams.


    Seeing these me Adventurers, Hungry Wolf Team, Gale Brigade, Ashe couldnt help but tear up  he also had a bit of longing for this kind of fantasy adventuring life, to form an adventure group with a few like-minded buddies, embark on an unknown journey, experience epic stories, and then retire and get married before the age of 35, retiring to the countryside.


    Ideally, he hoped to meet a beautiful, sexy lover, a virtuous and caring wife, a red-faced acquaintance, and a vibrant, cute girlfriend.


    And it would be even better if they could avoid meeting each other.


    Thats what a real fantasy story is.


    But now he was caught  escaped from prison  fled the country, this isnt a fantasy story, this is clearly a cops and robbers story!


    Theres no need to cross worlds; he could experience this process just by embezzling public funds from thepany!


    Just as Ashe was once again enveloped in the mncholy of adulthood, a friction seemed to arise among the adventurers.


    A cloaked, masked adventurer imed that he had lost his badge and suspected that the three people who had just passed by him had stolen it. Naturally, the three denied it and were even willing to be searched by the masked one.


    As the masked one searched the first person, the first person raised his hands, holding the adventurers badge in his right hand, and threw it to the second person in the masked ones blind spot.


    Everyone around saw this scene, but no one spoke, all just watching the drama unfold. Those with malicious intentions need not mention, even those with a good heart would not lend a hand  even an important badge could be stolen, thats better to give up the adventurers career, and obediently go back to the city to be a cog in the wheel.


    The masked one went to search the second person, the second person also raised his hands, and threw the badge to the third person. When the masked one went to search the third person, the third person threw the badge to the first person.


    The badge was equivalent to having circted among the three, causing the onlookers to burst intoughter.


    The three were purely trying to make fun of the masked one. In the end, the masked one got nothing and could only admit his bad luck and leave.


    Just as Ashe thought this was just a usual social beatdown, the three suddenly screamed.


    Wheres my badge? How did my badge disappear?


    Mine is gone too! Damn, it must have been that Goblins bastard!


    Where did he go?! Find him quick, my badge has the merit of buying a spirit!


    The three were so angry that they were looking everywhere for the masked one, but there were too many people wearing cloaks and masks here. The masked one blended into the crowd as soon as he dived into it, how could they find him? They even targeted Ashe, who stared back at them fearlessly.


    Hahaha, Im dying ofughter, I just saw him take your badges when he was searching you, but I didnt say anything, hahaha!


    What are you ring at, you cant even steal better than others, are you still here to lose face? Are you looking for a fight?


    Weve had enoughughter, you can leave now.


    The members of the surrounding adventurer groups loudly mocked them,ughter was heard everywhere, the three were so angry that their shoulders were shaking, they were so aggrieved they were about to cry. They could only whisper a few harsh words that no one could hear, and slinked away to the edge of the area.


    At this point, the Goblins in a suit walked onto the stage. He was tall and handsome, with a pair of silver-framed sses on his nose, and a top hat covering his hairless head, suddenly looking like a glowing green elf.


    A mere goblins exuded an elegant aura (Ashe waspletely unaware that he was being racially discriminatory), it was unknown whether it was stic surgery or natural  anyway, the gic optimization technology of the Blood Moon Realm was the best in the world.


    Good evening adventurers, I am the clerk for this mission, Gibot Mants. The Goblins calmly said: There are only 90 minutes left until midnight, the camp is now closed, we will now enter thebat preparation stage.


    Being in charge of the foreign invasion operation, a risk-free endeavor that only serves to polish ones political resume, it appears this Goblins is a candidate for the council.


    A suddenmentary on politics, quite familiar to Ashe, came from the side. He turned his head in puzzlement to nce at the cloaked adventurers beside him, but he couldnt ascertain who was speaking.


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 Chapter 163: What a Mess

    Chapter 163: What a Mess


    The Goblins continued, I wont beat around the bush. The Virtual Gateway we found this time is a level 2 gateway. The highest single unit of arcane energy it can amodate is the Two Wings Fully Spread. Therefore, this operation is not a kingdom war, but a low-intensity hunting festival.


    The operation requires groups of five. You can form your groups freely, or be randomly assigneddont interrupt, let me finishThe reason why it is necessary to be in a group of five is because the Moonshadow Priest will perform the Blood Moon Blessing on you.


    The blessing is cast on groups of five. It includes enhancements such as increased speed, ghost form, efficiency, self-healing, hardening, mental resistance, featherweight suspension, and more than a dozen others. Most importantly, it will establish a Life Link amongst your squad members thatsts for 48 hours. If anyone doesnt need the Blood Moon Blessing, raise your hand.


    The adventurers who initially had some doubts suddenly fell silent, even Ashe was tempted. The multi-fold enhancements were appealing, but the Life Link was too enticing. In the Event 422, medics used this miracle to treat hundreds of people, so Ashe easily found information about this miracle in the Canopy.


    As the name suggests, this miracle creates a life link among a group of people. For instance, if there were 50 healthy individuals and 50 injured ones, once the link is established, the life force of the healthy individuals would continuously flow into the injured ones, enabling them to heal at a rapid pace.


    Moreover, as long as the link exists, the injured will never die from their injuries. Its like locking onto theirst drop of blood!


    In times of medical staff shortage, this miracle can save a vast number of lives in a timely manner, buying time for emergency treatment.


    When used in an adventuring squad, it serves as the best life-saving charm because its a passive effect. Even if other members are unwilling, they still have to supply life force. Even the most selfish adventurer would not refuse an extrayer of insurance for themselves.


    Seeing no one raise their hands, the Goblins continued, Once I finish speaking, you may start forming your groups. For those who do not wish to form groups freely, we will provide random assignment. But let me rify one thingif you join a random team, you will be among the first groups to enter the gateway. Free-form groups will enter after the random ones.


    Ashes eyes flickered, understanding that the random teams were expected to be the cannon fodder.


    Although it has been confirmed that this is aplete Virtual Gateway, more than a day has passed since the rabbit returned. Its hard to say if there will be unexpected circumstances on the other side of the gateway. Compared to free-form teams with team cooperation capabilities, the random teams are naturally more suitable to act as scouts and break the ice.


    No wonder they are given the Life Link. Its hoped they canst longer to buy time for the adventurers that follow.


    Of course, the teams that enter first get extra rewards, the Goblins said calmly. For now, we n for the first three batches of random teams to enter, with five teams in each batch, and a 3-minute interval between each batch. The first batch of teams gets 300 Pioneer Merit points, the second batch 200, and the third batch 100. The first team of each batch gets an additional 80% Pioneer Merit points, the second team 50%, the third team 30%, the fourth team 10%, and the fifth team 0%.


    In other words, the first team of the first batch can directly receive 540 merit points (300*1.8). This is an incentive for the vanguarda prerequisite is to return alive to spend them.


    Ashe doesnt have much knowledge about the prices in the war zone, but seeing the other adventurers gasp and the camp turn cold, he knew these 540 merit points were quite powerful in terms of purchasing power.


    An adventurer raised his hand and asked, What if an adventure group sneaks into the random teams?


    We dont mind, the Goblins said indifferently, pointing towards the tents on the side of the tform. As you can see, there are three rows of tents to my left. With the tform as the reference, the first row is the first batch, and the first tent on the left is the first team.


    The blessingsmence at 11:15. I hope that before then, each tent will be filled with five people, the Goblins adjusted his sses. Now, let the team formationmence. So, the teaming session begins, and by the way, no dead people are allowed.


    In the face of a group of fierce adventurers, The Goblins expression was calm, as if he were treating a flock of sheep, then stepped down from the tform. The adventurers didnt move until he had left, even making way for him under the tform.


    Power can indeed be breathtaking, but authority can also make one hang ones head.


    Once the Goblins entered thergest tent, a Sorcerer suddenly smashed a long table, took out a hand cannon from a box, thereby opening the prelude to the chaos!


    The sound of guns was like thunder, and several adventure groups directly took out their guns and shot at them!


    Before the battle even began, the adventurers were already squabbling over their positions!


    Their goal was very clear  the first batch, the first team, worth 540 points of merit!


    In essence, the danger level of the first three batches is roughly the same. If the third batch, fifth teams danger level is 10, then the first batch, first teams danger level would only be around 20.


    If there truly were ambushes on the other end of the tunnel, all of the first three batches would have to fight for their lives. However, if there werent, then the first batch, first team would reap the most benefits.


    Every adventurer was a risk-taker, with an insatiable lust for danger. Faced with such high rewards, how could they resist going all in?


    Therefore, they were willing to fight for the right to risk their lives.


    Compared to the first batch, first team, the rewards for other positions were much lower. The second and third batches had the same risks as the first, but the chances of survival greatly increasedafter all, there were cannon fodders to distract attention.


    While the adventure groups were fighting each other, the real lone wolves also began to enter the tents to form teams. After a brief thought, Ashe decisively walked towards the first row, fifth tent.


    Unlike other adventurers, Ashe had no ns to return to the Blood Moon Realm. The sooner he left Blood Moon, the better, so the first batch was his best choice.


    The first batch, fifth team was undoubtedly the riskiest and least cost-effective position. The danger level of the fifth team was almost the same as that of the first teamif there really were ambushes on the other side, it would only be a matter of who dies first. However, the rewards for the fifth team were significantly less. Only those who slipped through the basic education would choose this position.


    But for Ashe, the fifth team was the ideal position. He could leave Blood Moon as quickly as possible, and the first four teams could draw attention. Maybe he could slip through unnoticed.


    However, when Ashe lifted the tent p, he found that there were already four people inside.


    There were three long benches in the tent. On the right bench sat two masked figuresone tall andrge, sharpening his nails with a nail file; the other slender, hands in his pockets, the sound of steel beads colliding emanating from within.


    On the middle bench sat another masked figure, barely discernible curly hair and dark skin, tearing open a Snow White package and shoving a piece of Moon Sugar into his mask.


    On the left bench, a masked figure loungedzily with a pair of enchanting, seductive fox eyes. When Ashe burst in, the corners of his eyes curled up, revealing a smirking smile.


    Ashe promptly tried to back out, Im sorry, I think Ive taken a wrong turn. Sorry to disturb you


    A hand grabbed his wrist, and when Ashe tried to resist, that familiar voice instantly made his body stiffen.


    Dont forget, you still owe me a wish, my dear Cult Leader.


    Igor pulled Ashe into the tent and immediately reached to lift his mask, his eyes brimming with barely contained joy.


    Lucky me, I was just in need of a bait, and here youe, walking right into my trap this is really


    Such a misfortune. Ashe sighed.


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 Chapter 164: The Gathering of Villains

    Chapter 164: The Gathering of Viins


    Ashe never doubted his ability to escape the Blood Moon, ordained by the Virtual Realm. He had considered the worst-case scenario of his escape journey: blending in with a group of unfamiliar adventurers, stumbling into a foreignnd possibly worse than the Blood Moon Realm, being treated as an enemy by the locals, and continuing his unlucky streak of taking the me. From beingbeled a Cult Leader to being branded as an Intruder from the foreignnds, he imagined living a precarious life of happy freedom


    He thought it couldnt get any worse than that.


    Then reality pped him hardnever underestimate me, societys idler!


    Ashe realized he had set his sights too low, fantasizing about blending in with a group of unfamiliar adventurers. But who else could be beside him, with sleazy eyes and brimming with tricks, even capable of stealing candy from a child, if not Igor, the notorious Bewitcher?


    And that guy munching on Moon Sugar as if it were a snack? Thats Harvey, the Necromancer.


    As for the duo sitting across him, unmistakably Langna and Ronat!


    The five notorious viins of the breakout were gathering once again!


    What was this feeling of oldpanions, who had shared hardships and challenges,ing together again? Ashe felt like he was about to ignite!


    With rage, that is.


    Did you also choose to escape the Blood Moon through the virtual gateway? Ashe almost couldnt contain his anger. Youre the big fish around here. Do you really need to flee with me?


    While munching on his candy, Harvey shrugged, Youre the leader of the Four Pirs Cult. Shouldnt you continue spreading your teachings in Caimon City, promoting the traditional culture of the Four Pirs? And here you are, thinking of fleeing. Thats not very loyal of you!


    Langna put away his file and nced at Harvey, Once we leave the Blood Moon Realm and its Chip system, youre no longer the mysterious and fearsome controller. Youll be just a Necromancer, no different from a street rat. Is that really okay with you?


    When his profession came up, Harvey couldnt stay silent. He snorted, Maybe the other side of the gateway is a grand nation that venerates the Necromancy faction. A ce where corpses litter the ground, the living are freed from tediousbor, focusing on the Virtual Realm and research. Society is run by the dead, free of conflict, abundant in resources, where life is elevated through death


    Thats as ridiculous as us eventually falling for L Fatty, Igor interjected bluntly. Maybe you should head to the Foster Homes kindergarten ss. You might find someone there who speaks yournguage.


    Im getting hungry, Ronat muttered, waving at Ashe. What kind of L Fatty do you like? I prefer the spicy ones.


    I like the ones with salted egg yolk vor Wait, no! Ashe covered his head in frustration. Cant you choose another time, another way? Do you have to pick the same time, the same method, even the same row of seats as me?


    Were in more danger every minute we stay in the Blood Moon, Langna replied. You also think this is a rare opportunity, dont you? Besides, finding you here, I couldnt miss it.


    Ronat agreed, Definitely.


    Harvey chimed in, Absolutely have to go with Ashe.


    Ashe was taken aback. Why?


    They fell silent, all turning to look at Igor. Igor had been smiling slyly at Ashe, his right hand firmly on Ashes shoulder, as if afraid his prey would escape.


    Ashe felt a chill, swallowed, and cleared his throat before speaking earnestly, Im not actually opposed to us working together. After all, we have a shared experience of escaping prison, know each other well, and have a foundation of trust and cooperation. Working together should make things more efficient. But since wererades with amon goal, we should cooperate sincerely and present a united front, without dragging each other down or betraying one another. What do you think?


    Yeah, yeah!


    Ashe is right!


    Typical of the Cult Leader, always so eloquent.


    Igor nodded repeatedly, looking very agreeable, and then held up three fingers, So, dear Cult Leader, are you nning to distract attention, create an escape opportunity for me, or act as bait?


    Dont make me choose such a cruel option! And arent all those choices the same? Ashe hissed in a low roar, At least give me a way out, considering my major contribution in the prison escape!


    Nonsense! Harvey retorted, I was the one with the greatest merit. Without me, how could you have controlled the guards?


    I cant ignore that, Necromancer, Langna said calmly. If I hadnt cleared out the hunters and sailors on the transport ship, how could the n have gone so smoothly?


    I designed the escape route, Ronat interjected. If I hadnt thoroughly investigated the area from Shattered Lake Prison to Caimon City, how could we have avoided all the surveince cameras and arrived in Caimon City without any notice?


    Hey, hey, hey, are you all misunderstanding your own roles? Igors eyebrows twitched, The escape n was my creation. Without my brilliant mind, you all would have been rotting in Shattered Lake. You were just the limbs; I was the brain. Would you credit the achievements of the toes to the brain?


    Outside, bullets flew and mes and ice shed, asionally punctuated by explosions; inside the tent, a verbal battle raged. The idiots argued about who was the MVP of the escape, utterlycking self-awareness. Ashe despaired over his journey of escape.


    Worse still, Ashe couldnt escape Igors clutches, as thetter still held one of his wishes.


    Igor could evenmand Ashe to stand on his hands and attract attention in the most humiliating way. In fact, the Bewitcher was likely brewing even more vicious ns  such as ordering Ashe to intercept Langna, Ronat, and Harvey, causing a disturbance to buy the bad guys more time.


    If they encountered any crisis, Igor would undoubtedlymand Ashe to act as a Taunting Minion to draw attention, which is why Harvey, Langna, and Ronat insisted on working with Ashe. If Ashe was to be sacrificed, why not use him to cover for three oldrades?


    The Virtual Realm tells me that I can definitely escape the Blood Moon.


    The arguing in the tent suddenly ceased. Ashe shook off Igors hand on his shoulder, looked around, and said indifferently, Ive participated in a Fates Inquiry, and one of the questions was about how I would escape the Blood Moon Realm. This means the Virtual Realm believes I can sessfully escape.


    If you want to work with me, I dont mind, but I advise you to drop the idea of using me as a shield and genuinely protect me.


    Ashe spoke firmly, I can miss this chance and wait for a second or third opportunity, but you might not have that luxury.


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 Chapter 165: A Prison’s First-Class Protected Animal

    Chapter 165: A Prison��s First-ss Protected Animal


    Turning the tables!


    Since Ashe couldnt avoid the four relentless Bone Dragons, he decided not to hide anymore, even thinking of using them to his advantage.


    As Ashe rightly said, although the recent foreign invasion was indeed the best chance to escape in a while, he wasnt overly anxious. After all, the Virtual Realm had already assured his safety.


    It was like a professor guaranteeing youll pass before an exam. You wouldnt hand in a nk paper, but youdfortably skip questions you dont know because, even if you do poorly, the professor would adjust your coursework grades to ensure you pass.


    However, for Igor and others, Ashes status had leaped from a one-time taunting minion to a prisons first-ss protected animal. After all, sticking close to Ashe meant a smooth escape from the Blood Moon. They were too busy protecting him to consider using him as disposable bait.


    Yet


    You dont actually believe that everything mentioned in the Fate Quiz will happen, do you? Langna calmly stated, The only absolute in the Fate Sect is that nothing is absolute.


    Ronat shrugged, Plus, you cant prove youve actually encountered the Fate Quiz. Even if you, Ashe, are willing to stake your reputation, the Cult Leader isnt exactly known for his integrity, is he?


    Harvey nodded along, Even if the Fate Quiz is real and you do escape the Blood Moon, that doesnt necessarily mean you need to be alive. I could just as well take your dead body away from the Blood Moon.


    Igor delivered the final blow, Compared to taking a whole living person with us, wouldnt it be more efficient to kill you, pack you into four boxes, and carry you as a talisman?


    Damn, they make a good point!


    Ashe, failing in his attempt to impress, hung his head low. Unseen by him, the four exchanged quick nces, silently reaching a consensus.


    Huh?


    Suddenly, the tent p was lifted, and a tall beastman sniper walked in.


    He was unmasked, with one mechanical eye. Both shoulders, hands, knees, and waist were fitted with sniper gear, a sorcerers armament that abandoned real bullets, requiring a spirit to shoot.


    Gun Sect  Eight Sniper Style!


    Igor and the others instantly recognized the beastmans path of development. This was a fusion of the robust physiques of beastmen and ogres with sniper tactics. Equipped with multiple heavy sorcerer sniper rifles, he used spirits for aiming and shooting, dispersing the recoil throughout his body via spirits, making him incredibly formidable in directbat. A true assant and de on the battlefield. Sorcerers below the rank of Three Wings had virtually no defensive miracle that could withstand the Eight Snipers targeted shooting.


    The beastman sniper was also surprised to find the tent full. He quickly assessed the strength of the upants: the duo on the right bench, untouchable;


    The middle bench emitted a gray, deathly aura under his Tactical Eye Model 7, best not to provoke;


    The left bench, though also seating two, featured one tall and confident, while the other seemed inconspicuous, head hung low as if constipated.


    In an instant, the beastman sniper determined who was the easiest target in the tent and reached directly for Ashe, You


    Ah, which tea caf to visit, really want to take a dump, shrimp-vored L Fatty is quite good, when will I hit it big


    The beastman sniper suddenly came to his senses, realizing he had been bombarded with a slew of distracting thoughts for a full two seconds, forgetting his situation and purpose!


    An attack from the Heart Sect!


    He tried to move, but his legs were numb as if they didnt belong to him. A decayed, deathly aura crept from his feet to his waist.


    A sinister miracle from the Necromancy faction!


    The beastman instinctively wanted tounch an indiscriminate attack at full firepower, but suddenly, two steel beads shot from the right, striking his eye and knee. Not only was he temporarily blinded, but he was also forced to kneel!


    Gunmanship or archery?


    Struggling to open a slit in his eye, the beastman saw a whip-like kick sharp as a de!


    Snap!


    Everything happened as fast as lightning. By the time Ashe looked up, all he saw was a dark shadow flying backwards out of the tent, unable to even scream.


    He tilted his head, puzzled: What just happened?


    Nothing much. Igor pped him on the shoulder amicably. You know, Ive had a change of heart. Even though youre not that useful, we do have a friendship. So dont worry, Ashe, I wont use you as bait. Stick with me, and Ill lead you to victory!


    Ashe nced at Igor, his eyes gradually lighting up, his lips curving into a yful smile.


    So, youre saying Im important?


    Igors expression remained unchanged: Ashe, youre so ordinary and yet so confident


    If I were really useless, youd tter and praise me, inte my ego, and then kick me out to face death. But if Im useful, youd try to crush my confidence, so Id willingly be at your service. Ashe pointed at Harvey. Dont forget, I watched the whole process of you trying to recruit Harvey. He just didnt fall for it.


    Harvey raised an eyebrow but said nothing.


    Oh, so youre feeling cocky, Ashe. Would you prefer to do a sensual dance or stand on your head with diarrhea Are you trying to get yourself killed?!


    Ashe flipped Igors hood and ruffled his hair in anger,ughing mischievously: Come on, make a wish. Ill fulfill it as best I can. Whoever doesnt make a wish is a puppy,e on!


    Ha-ha-ha, I knew it, Igor, you believed me. Youd rather choose a certain future where you stay by my side and protect me than face the vastly dangerous unknown future!


    Did you forget that as soon as we cross the passage, youre useless? I could order you to wait in ce for 48 hours and then return to Blood Moon.


    Ashe paused, sitting down obediently like a good child. Sorry, I was too arrogant.


    Igor, annoyed, adjusted his hair and put on his hood again. He looked at the Cult Leader, who was leisurely borrowing a nail clipper from Langna, so irritated he almost wished Ashe would hang himself with his own intestines.


    And whats going on? Now even a foolish man with the social skills of a toddler from a Foster Home can easily see through his thoughts? Am I, Igor, not cunning enough, or is Ashe too absurd?


    How many times had he been outsmarted by Ashe?


    The fourth time, the fifth?


    Igor felt Ashe was his nemesis, making a decision against his Trickster principles: This guy must not be spared. The day we leave Blood Moon will be the day Ashe is buried!


    Several more people tried to enter the fifth tent during this time, but they were all driven away. Soon, the sound of Goblins could be heard outside: Team formation time is over, random teams cane out now.


    Ashes group of five exited the tent and looked up to see three people standing on a high tform.


    Good, all random teams are full. The Goblin nodded in satisfaction. Now for the blessing ceremony. To my left is the assistant priest Kiera sent by the church. Her priest team will bestow the Blood Moon Blessing on everyone.


    The assistant priest Kiera, in a gold-trimmed white robe, was tall but had a cute appearance. Her chubby cheeks and baby fat made one want to pinch them. She shyly nodded to the adventurers, herrge grey wolfs tail wagging behind her.


    And standing to my right, this hunter, whom Im sure everyone recognizes, is none other than the enforcement squad leader of the Heresy Court, Gerard Westminster


    Ashe and his fourpanions instinctively retreated back into their tent.


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 Chapter 166: Three Words to Willingly Surrender Ashe

    Chapter 166: Three Words to Willingly Surrender Ashe


    Everyone, dont be afraid.


    Kibbott, the Goblins, gazed at the restless crowd, having anticipated this reaction. With a gentle clearing of his throat, the entire camp fell silent, leaving only his voice echoing clearly.


    All sorcerers aspiring to politics master the art of sonic magic. Voice is power; even if not interested in silencing political foes, one must be able to defend their own voice.


    I understand your worries, so Ill skip the pleasantries. If we were to use all adventurers here for target practice, innocents would suffer. But selectively executing every other one means missing some culprits, Kibbott said, his contempt for the fearful adventurers below growing. They seemed like stray dogs to him.


    The mayor was right  dogs can be used but not allied with, as theyre easily lured away by someone elses bone. Only by coborating with wolves, exploiting these dogs to the fullest, will they be strong enough to turn against their masters once satiated and sharpened.


    The Blood Moon Realm has too many dogs and too few wolves.


    Therefore, thebatpetition must go on


    Recalling the mayors teachings, Kibbotts expression grew colder as he continued, But rest assured, this festival is of great importance. Compared to the offerings needed by the Blood Moon Supreme, your crimes are trivial. Even if the Death Maniac Swordswoman goes berserk, I wont allow harm toe to our valuable forces here.


    Rx, Secretary Kibbott, Gerard said, arms crossed, eyeing the adventurers with interest. I value this festival more than anyone here.


    The crowd sighed in relief  of course! The Heresy Court and the war zone never interfered with each other. Plus, with this being a festival against foreign invasion, why would Gerarde here to arrest people?


    But many were still uneasy. What was Gerard doing here if the festival had nothing to do with the Heresy Court? Was he just out for a stroll because he couldnt sleep?


    However, the Death Maniac Swordswoman is indeed here to pursue criminals, Kibbott continued. But it has nothing to do with the majority here, nor with the adventurers. Shes only looking for fugitives disguised among them.


    Ashe and hispanions felt a sense of doom.


    The Corpse Lover Archibald Harvey, Carrion Crow Ronat Wade, Trickster Igor Bukin, Death Eater Langna Qios, Demonic Saint Ashe Heath.


    Gerard announced loudly, Im here only to pursue these five. Theyve just escaped from Shattered Lake Prison and removed their Miracle Chips from their necks, so they are definitely not part of the war zone adventurers, and Im not overstepping my jurisdiction.


    The adventurers rxed.


    Not only were the five escapees unrted to them, but more importantly, they were not adventurers. This meant Gerard hadnt broken the unspoken agreement between the war zone and the Heresy Court to arbitrarily arrest criminals seeking refuge in the war zone. This was what truly reassured the adventurers.


    If Gerard had arrested criminals among the adventurers, they would not resist, but they would soon flee the Lakeview War Zone for other zones. After all, if even the war zone couldnt guarantee their safety, why stay and be political achievements for the Heresy Court?


    Ashe and hispanions exchanged silent nces, nodding subtly. Without needing words, they knew they had to cooperate sincerely; otherwise, they couldnt escape the pursuit of the Tri-Wing Sanctuary Sorcerers.


    Alright, its time to ignite the fire


    By the way, Gerard added, While theoretically Im after five escapees, I have a particr interest in Ashe. So, beyond the bounty posted by the Heresy Court, Ive set a personal reward for information on Ashe Heath. Anyone providing concrete details about him will receive a reward of 100 Gold Coins. And if the other four escapees are willing to divulge information about Ashe, Ill represent the Heresy Court and halt their pursuit, granting them three days to flee.


    Ashe turned to look at hispanions, and they all turned to him.


    Youre not seriously considering betraying a friend just to save your own skins, are you?


    Harvey scratched his head, Are we friends?


    Ronat shrugged, Whats wrong with scrambling to survive?


    Igor spoke coldly, If it wasnt for your recording that enraged Gerard, would he be relentlessly chasing us? Whoever causes the mess, cleans it up. Any problem with that?


    With just three sentences, Gerard had managed to sow discord in this already shaky team, true to his reputation as a master maniptor and Blood Mad Hunter.


    Just as Ashe was contemting distancing himself from these untrustworthy individuals, Langna calmly said, We dont have the Chip, eventually, we need to find a way off Blood Moon. Unless Gerard is willing to let us pass, betraying Ashe offers us no benefiteven with three days to run, Blood Moon offers no sanctuary.


    Ashe couldnt help but give a thumbs up, See, Langnas making sense. You guys are falling for the enemys tricks so easily. You should learn from him


    But if we cant find any other leverage, we might have to trade Ashe for a chance to breathe, Langna continued, Better one of us than all five.


    Igor looped an arm around Ashes neck, Thanks, Ashe. Didnt expect youd sacrifice yourself for usyoull grant my wish, wont you?


    Ashes face fell, but it was hidden behind his mask. He had no choice but to y it by ear now. Despite Igors possible betrayal, Ashe had to admit that sticking with these four was currently the best strategy.


    After all, they shared amon goal, and wrongdoing was right up their alley. If he were with strangers, his only option would be to hope for a Miracle.


    Gerard waited a moment to see if anyone would step forward to snitch, but not surprisingly, no one did. He gestured to a Goblins to continue speaking.


    Kibbott announced, Next, the Cleric team will bestow the Blessing of the Miracle. Please line up by teams. The Blood Mad Hunter will guard the clerics and scan your Chip information. Information about the foreign realms across the portal has been sent to everyone at this camp. Please read it promptly.


    Ashe and his group pretended to summon a hologramwithout the Chip, they couldnt receive the mass-sent junk, but they had to maintain appearances.


    The Cleric team approached the stage, each exhibiting some canine traits, nearly all of them sporting a fluffy tail. Ashe couldnt help but nce at Langna, who silently pointed to the looming Blood Moon above.


    Unlike the Moonshadow blessed by the Blood Moons grace, Langna could only transform in shadows, showing no Moonshadow traits otherwise. The difference between him and the others was as stark as living off bread versus off scraps. No wonder he was considered a heretic and left to die at the shatteredke.


    As the adventurers began to line up for the blessing, Ashe witnessed the new age ceremonythe five clerics had each adventurer extend their right arm, located a vein, and then injected them with a steel syringe.


    The acolyte Kira took out a radio and pressed a button, filling the camp with sacred prayer chants. Soon, the adventurers underwent a transformation as the wandering moonlight, like light smoke, materialized intoyers of gossamer garments draping over them.


    Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!


    I can feel the strength surging!


    Praise the Blood Moon!


    Damn! Ashe couldnt help butment, Isnt this just like getting an injection with some music hypnosis?


    Blessings have always been like this, Ronat exined nearby. Priests prepare the blessing potions in advance. When needed, an injection apanied by holy music activates the miraculous effects of the potion. Though not as potent as a priests direct spellcasting, its faster, convenient, and even portable. You cant easily buy these priest-made potions outside the war zone.


    It was apparent that the adventurers had never experienced such luxury before. They were so exhrated that they seemed ready to burst with energy, making Ashe wonder if the potion contained Moon Sugar or perhaps it was the other way around, with Moon Sugar containing elements of the blessing potion?


    But this blessing was practically a curse for Ashe and his fourpanions. The blessed adventurers all wore a thin, bright red gossamer garment, making them very conspicuous.


    In other words, it was easy to tell who had received the blessing and who hadnt. They couldnt sneak by unnoticed. If everyone else was illuminated by the blessing and only they were not, the only difference from outright surrendering was that they would be resisting to the end, aggravating their situation.


    They were at the back of the line, and the priests were blessing people quickly. It would be their turn in no more than ten minutes, so they had to make a decision fast.


    How about we just wrap things up?


    Better to deal with it and then turn it in to show our sincerity.


    Leave it to me. Im a pro when ites to handling bodies.


    Watching Igor discuss seriously with Ronat and Harvey, Ashe shivered: Im starting to regret why I broke you bunch of scum out of jail


    What are you talking about? Were just discussing how to cook L Fatty


    Alright, stop scaring Ashe, our little cutie, Langna said, looking at Harvey. Necromancer, can you pull off the same trick again?


    I could.


    Harvey looked up at the night sky. But the prison is a special structure, so it had strong constraints. Here, without even a ceiling, the only enchantments I can guarantee are attack restraint and movement restraint.


    As for Gerard, dont get your hopes up, the necromancer said, not daring to look directly at the hunter captain, only ncing quickly out of the corner of his eye. Ignoring his power enough to counter the restraints, just his authority level probably exceeds that of the Chip Processor. Any restraintmand issued by the processor wont work on an Enforcement Captain.


    Indeed, Harvey hade fully prepared for this life-or-death challenge, though it was pointlessthe greatest threat to them here was Gerard. If they couldnt use the chip processor to restrict Gerard, the examiner, their prison escape exam was doomed to fail.


    Ashe asked, Cant we cause a chaos and then break through? Isnt it said that the virtual gateway only allows entry to those with two wings or less arcane energy? Gerard shouldnt be able to chase us there, right?


    You might be underestimating Gerardsbat power, Igor said, spreading his hands. Not even the most reckless gambler would bet on a Tri-Wing Sanctuary Sorcerer showing a weakness that we low-level sorcerers could exploit Wait, Gerards main target is you, which means we could hand you over to distract him, then slip through the gateway. Theres a good chance wed escape.


    Ashe nced sideways at him. What do you think I would do in that situation? Desperately run away to buy you guys time, or just surrender and let Gerard catch you all, so we die together?


    Jeez, Ashe, youre such a refreshingly awful person.


    Thanks for thepliment, Im ttered.


    Jokes aside, Igors concerns were unavoidableGerard was like a mountain, firmly blocking their path of escape. No matter how many fancy tricks they had, if they couldnt deal with Gerard, it was all just empty talk.


    I agree with Igors n, Langna suddenly said.


    Ashe looked at Langna in surprise, not expecting this burly, bald guy to give in to his survival instincts and betray them at the drop of a hat.


    Damn it, give me back all the emotions I felt for you!


    However, Igors eyes lit up, and he pped Ashe on the shoulder, realizing something. Exactly, given our current situation, this is indeed the n with the highest chance of sess.


    Ashe Heath, we have to hand you over.


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 Chapter 167: Gerard and the Four Pillars Cult

    Chapter 167: Gerard and the Four Pirs Cult


    On the evening of his 24 years, 1609 months, and 16 days, Gerard sat on the steps of a high tform, looking down at the adventurers receiving their blessings, his mind drifting back to himself 134 years ago.


    Back then, he had struggled through three times to prepare for the exam, finally getting admitted to a research institute just before the human age limit of 25. However, disinterested in academics, Gerard joined the Heresy Court as amon hunter.


    His mentor was a former member of the sacred bloodline, a smoker with azy disposition, famously known as the Restroom Hunter for his timely bathroom breaks during clerical work. This mentor taught young Gerard a valuable lesson.


    Hunting wasnt a morous job. The daily grind was just as annoying as trivial matters, especially in an era still riddled with racial, gender, and ss discrimination. Many people werent outright evil, but like fishbones in rice, they caused an indescribable aversion.


    Interacting with them felt like umting fishbones in ones throat, which eventually needed to be cleansed with blood.


    However, the unreliable mentor could always precisely discern Gerards low spirits and asionally took him to Tea Cafs and Casinos to alleviate stress. Gerard was usually reluctant, but the mentors scruffy, sleazy smile indeed cleared the clouds in his heart.


    Until one day, Gerard and his mentor were assigned to a special task force to eradicate the Four Pirs Cult. Initially, Gerard didnt take the organization seriously. Under the benevolent Blood Moon, evil seemed like a puddle after rain, bound to evaporate under the fierce sun.


    But the operation encountered unexpected setbacks. The main force got separated, cult members fought fearlessly, dying alongside the hunters. When they finally reached the cult leaders location, only Gerard, his mentor, and another veteran hunter were left.


    His mentor asked Gerard to stand outside the door to prevent escapes and give a warning if needed.


    This was a reasonable request, and Gerard couldnt refuse.


    Sensing Gerards eagerness to prove himself, the mentor chuckled, When you lead a team in the future, youll have plenty of chances. Now its my turn to show off. You just wait here bute in quickly if something goes wrong with me.


    Even in grim times, the mentor could dispel the darkness in Gerards heart. So Gerard watched as the two hunters pushed open the door, holding up Hunting Lamps and stepping into the dark room, searching for the hidden cult leader.


    One minute, two minutes, three minutes passed without any sound from inside. Impatient, Gerard also raised his Hunting Lamp and stepped into the room.


    The darkness in the room was thick, almost tangible, the light from the Hunting Lamp unable to prate it, and even the New-style Handgun seemed powerless against this unknown fear.


    He stepped on a liquid  blood. Gerard looked down to see a strange corpse on the ground, and following the blood trail, he saw two figures entwined.


    His mentor was biting the throat of the old hunter, who had thrust his sword through the mentors heart.


    How beautiful, dont you think? the strange corpse spoke.


    Startled, Gerard fell to the ground, pointing his gun at the corpse.


    Im not a Sorcerer, nor do I have a weapon. You dont need to be so tense, the corpse sat up, smiling. If you pull the trigger, Ill die.


    You they, they


    The Vampire feared the hunters attack and bit him first, then the hunter retaliated, killing the Vampire. I was just here, sleeping.


    Gerard said fiercely, Youre lying!


    The rebuttal was decisive. If it doesnt align with your own truth, its not the truth, right? I quite like this kind of straightforward thinking, the corpse tilted its head. You must be wondering, why would a vampire fear an old hunter taking action against him? Its because of a longstanding grudge between them.


    But the senior was so kind, how could he


    Just because he was kind to you, does that mean hes been a good person all his life? Never offended anyone, never did anything bad?


    Gerard was momentarily stumped, but quickly retorted, Youre the leader of the Four Pirs Cult!


    So, because Im a bad person, everything I say is wrong, right? The corpse shed a sweet smile. I really like your straightforward thinking.


    But, do you know why the Four Pirs exist?


    Desire! Gerard panted, gritting his teeth. Youre just a group of demons seducing people into corruption


    Its for peace of mind. The corpse ced a hand over its heart. To be stronger, smarter, more popr, to find more happiness People seek peace of mind, so the Four Pirs answered their wishes.


    They both sought peace of mind, thats why they fought each other to the death here. If they hadnt, they couldnt have vented the darkness in their hearts.


    Youre lying!


    In your heart, youre already agreeing with me, arent you, Hunter Gerard. Youre a child with great insight. During your investigation, you discovered that the senior and the old hunter were at odds. Youve already guessed their untold story


    Shut up!


    You also know, the seniors smoking habits, hisziness, his unkempt appearance, all stem from his dark and massive past. From the bits and pieces, youve deduced that the senior was a tragic loser, harboring a madness under his smile capable of destroying sanity


    I said shut up!


    Gerard pressed the guns muzzle to the corpses forehead. But the corpse just smiled, raising a bloodstained finger, drawing two bloody tear tracks under Gerards eyes.


    Rain may evaporate in the sun, but some of it seeps into the soil, nourishing the earth. The evaporated water doesnt disappear; it follows the natural cycle, waiting for the next downpour. The rain doesnt stop; it keeps falling, because I exist, because you exist.


    In a world where thew bes a ughter, crime isnt shameful.


    So Gerard, for whom are you crying?


    Bang!


    The corpse finally fell silent. By then, the other hunters had btedly arrived, concluding the hunt.


    A century passed in a sh. Gerard becamezy, arrogant, rule-breaking, but also stronger. Just when he thought he could sleep in Caimon Citys paradise, a familiar name awakened memories buried under the dust.


    So Gerard volunteered, devised a detailed n, and in his strongest form, wiped out the reborn Four Pirs Cult, trying to make up for past regrets with his current achievements.


    But Gerard felt no satisfactionbecause this generations cult leader was the weakest he had ever seen.


    Naive, clueless, speaking in a soft voice, almost like a recent college graduate. Catching him was hardly harder than catching a cat.


    So when Ashe imed amnesia during the interrogation, Gerard believed him on the spot, thinking he was just an unlucky scapegoat whose memory was erased by the mastermind.


    Later, Professor Sylin approached Gerard to discuss Ashes danger, even at the cost of favors, asking him to measure Ashes potential again. Although Gerard spared Ashe out of respect for a fellow citizen, his opinion remained unchangedhe still saw Ashe as amb unworthy of attention.


    Then a series of events erupted like a storm: the escape, control of the prison, the Blood moon trial, Sylins disappearance


    Just a moment ago, Gerard received a message that the president of the Elf Rights Association, Schilling Dorr, was missing, unable to confirm his life and death, and the news was temporarily blocked.


    A hundred yearster, when he was clearly sitting under the bright blood moon, Gerard felt that he had entered that dark room again.


    Ashe-Heath, unquestionably the leader of the cult of the Four Pirs Cult, is the source of chaos, the secret head, whose mere existence causes disaster, who is himself a vortex of evil!


    With his perfect disguise, he earned the trust of the Tri-wing Artisan, and the imprudence of thew enforcement captain!


    So just likest time Gerard murmured in a voice only he could hear: Am I going to have to make it up after the fact again?


    Suddenly, there was a disturbance in the blessing group.


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 Chapter 168: The Legacy of Sylin

    Chapter 168: The Legacy of Sylin


    Its him!


    Youre doomed this time!


    Gerard looked over and saw an un-blessed man with a masked face breaking away from the group, desperately rushing towards the entrance.


    An adventurer next to the masked man shouted, Stop him, hes the wanted criminal!


    Gerard watched the scene coldly and said, Bass!


    Gerard didnte alone; he had several hunters assisting him. Hearing the captains order, Blood Saint Beastman Bass didnt hesitate. He pulled out his handgun, switched off the safety, and his body blurred into a blood shadow, chasing after the escapee!


    Gerard himself remained seated on the high tform, knowing well that as long as he guarded the virtual gateway, Ashe couldnt escape the Blood Moon.


    As for the man who had just fled in panic, Gerard didnt believe it was Ashe himself. The white-haired hunter had been fooled by a substitute before; how could he fall for it a second time?


    It was likely Ashes substitute, which Bass could destroy with a single strike.


    When Bass passed through the crowd of adventurers, everyones chip screens popped up automatically, except for Gerard and the assistant priestess. They were bombarded with two blood-red messages alternating:


    Warning: You are currently in a no-attack state.


    Warning: Your movement is restricted.


    Even Bass was forced to stop amidst the crowd, unable to resist the chips constraints. Before he could react, the surrounding adventurers suddenly screamed in agony, falling one by one with blood gushing from their bodies!


    The hunters want to trap and kill us here!


    Theyre even controlling our chips to make us sitting ducks!


    Gerard is going to judge us across the war zone!


    Theyll kill us all! Controlling chips like this is illegal, they wont let us leave alive! Theyre going to die!


    Blood, night, restrictions, screams, along with Gerards notorious reputation and the criminals self-awareness, panic spread like a gue bomb, instantly exploding among the adventurers.


    Just then, the warnings on the adventurers screens blurred and distorted. They tentatively moved and to their surprise, found they could walk!


    Run!


    Without hesitation, the adventurers instinctively obeyed this unknownmand. Running had no downside, it meant escaping the terrifying Gerard, and everyone else was doing it.


    They were like a herd of panicked rabbits, scattering wildly at the slightest provocation!


    Break through!


    me Squad, follow me, cut down any enemy in our way


    Ah, Ive been shot, Ive been shot!


    Dont step on me, dont! Ah~


    The hysterical chaos and screams pierced the night. The adventurers who had fallen were trampled by the panicked crowd, emitting painful wails, clearly about to be trampled to death!


    In the face of this disaster, Gerards eyes shone brighter, burning like rubies.


    Chaos, manipting hearts, inciting darkness, controlling everyone like puppets.


    This was the vor, the feeling he sought!


    Indeed, it was you, Four Pirs Cult Leader, Ashe Heath!


    Although the initial screams had arisen from various parts of the crowd, the first to lead the adventurers to escape and then hide among them to fan the mes was already locked in Gerards sights!


    By now, the adventurers had stormed the camp entrance. The guards from the Government Affairs Hall in charge of the blockade dared not intercept them. Although there were priests for emergency aid, they were just doing their jobs; why risk their lives against these madmen? They let the adventurers break out of the camp and scatter in all directions.


    As the notorious fugitive was about to escape in the chaos, Gerard sped his hands in prayer and activated a Miracle, transforming into the light of the Blood Moon to leap across the camp, vaulting over the confused adventurers like a white wolf hunting its prey in the night!


    He swung his Chain Sword from a distance, which instantly disintegrated into a snake-like rope, coiling towards the fleeing figure in the forefront!


    Im sorry, Ashe, Gerards eyes filled with a crazed killing intent. But youre going to die anyway, let me vent a bit!


    Sword Blood Miracle  Blood Virgin Lament!


    This was Gerards most cruel and violent Miracle, where the Chain Sword would turn into a meat grinder, binding the target and mashing them into a pulp, bones and flesh included, even manifesting the effect of harming the soul, bathing the target in the most severe and vicious pain in the moments before death!


    It was more a punishment than an attack!


    Now, it was Gerards time for judgment!


    However, what responded to Gerard was not a ssh of blood, but nothing.


    Nothing at all. The moment the Chain Sword touched the masked person, they just dissipated. Two familiar objects fell to the ground where they stood  recording pens.


    It was like the worst joke, exploding into the most boring fireworks.


    A Substitute?


    This was the Substitute?


    Then the one before


    Gerardnded and turned back, seeing the initially fleeing masked person lying on the ground screaming in agony, apparently shot in the leg by Bas, revealing a fish-mans scaly face from under the cloak, clearly not the Ashe-Heath he had been longing for.


    The first masked person was a decoy used by Ashe, a precursor to the ensuing chaos; the second was a substitute used to stir panic, also to divert Gerards attention.


    So where was the real Ashe?


    Gerard turned to look and saw that the hunters left on the high tform had been taken down, and several blood-stained adventurers were rushing towards the virtual gateway.


    Right, although the adventurers were initially fleeing outwards, several had been shot for unknown reasons andy on the ground, unable to run, even trampled by the panicked crowd, so Gerard subconsciously ignored them


    Ive been fooled again.


    With the same trick.


    Again using a substitute to shift attention.


    Gerard suddenly felt very tired, the Chain Sword in his hand heavy,cking the strength to lift his body. He knew he was toote; he had been lured too far, and only Two-Winged Monks could pass through the virtual gateway, making it impossible for him to chase after them.


    Unless someone could stop them, otherwise


    Bang!


    ng!


    A moment before the shot rang out, Ashe on the high tform thrust the Honeyed Words, Dagger in Heart into the ground!


    The warm yellow Sword Aegis, formed almost instantaneously, was shattered by the sniper bullet!


    The sniper was a beastman hiding at the entrance of the camp, his right hand fitted with a heavy sniper rifle specially made for beastmen, the barrel gleaming with a golden light, seemingly guided by a Miracle.


    Gerard recognized him, and so did Ashe.


    He was Beastman Gesas  Duff.


    A Two-wing Sorcerer, the current leader of the Woodpecker Gang, and a loyalpdog of Professor Sylin.


    Hisst mission was to hide near observation point 53 and take the opportunity to kill Ashe-Heath.


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 Chapter 169: The Endgame

    Chapter 169: The Endgame


    The n went incredibly smoothly.


    Sometimes Ashe couldnt help but admit, the five of them were like a crime syndicate made in heaven. With some quick improvisation, they actually lured Gerard out, creating a gap to break into the Virtual Realm Passage.


    The n was actually quite simple: First, Igor randomly chose an audience member to intimidate. Out of ten adventurers, nine have something to hide and thest one is essentially the scapegoat. Igor didnt need to exert much effort to draw out their deepest fears, making them believe he was the enemy they had been running from. In a state of panic, the chosen one would flee outside.


    As the Hunter pursued the Adventurer, Harvey connected a chip using Necromancy, adding a Restriction to everyone present, plunging the adventurers into a state of panic. Meanwhile, Ronald discreetly knocked down several adventurers with steel balls, grazing Ashe and others, so they all naturally fell to the ground.


    A recording pen, hastily made by Ashe, would start ying on the Substitute, while Igor activated Mind Miracle to amplify everyones suspicion and panic. The adventurers would quickly sink into a fear of the Hunter, and eventually, under the lead of Ashes Substitute, they would rush out of the camp.


    Once Gerard was lured out and the other adventurers had all left, those injured lying on the ground would seize the gap to leap up, rush towards the Passage, and leave Blood Moon behind to start anew!


    Ashe didnt hold much hope originally, but this wed, impromptu n was executed without a hitch. When Gerard became a shadow, flitting over his body, Ashes heart nearly leapt out of his mouth.


    A more ideal scene than Igor had imagined unfolded: Only one Hunter was left on the high tform, and the surrounding Moonshadow Priests seemed to be petrified with fear. After Langna knocked out the Hunter with a punch, the path ahead was clear.


    Everything that should have gone wrong went right in the most critical part of the process.


    Yet, in the ending, where there should have been no room for error, the unexpected happened.


    On the stairs towards the Passage, Ashe suddenly felt a chill, as if someone was gripping his heart tightly. He could even sense a word forming above his head


    Danger!


    He knew what this meantPrimal Instincts had been triggered.


    During his Virtual Realm Adventure, this skill he had acquired from the Sorcerer Handbook had saved him from peril multiple times. This time, Ashe naturally chose to continue trusting it.


    Miracle: Sword Barrier!


    After his Promotion to Two Wings, Ashe could use Gold arcane energy to activate Earth Sword, and the defensive power of this Miracle had almost tripled.


    Bang!


    With a noisy st from the Gun, the warm golden Barrier shattered like ss, and even the ground, tasked with dispersing the destructive force, cracked into a spiderweb!


    Ashe didnt even need a direct hit to feel like a mere graze from such an attack could strip flesh and bone, reducing his weight by a good ten pounds or more!


    Ashe turned his head slightly and saw the Orc sniper lurking in the shadows of the camp entrance.


    Sylinsckey.


    He hadnt forgotten about Gersas, but he never imagined Gersas would snuff out hisst hope so perfectly. This unexpected bad luck made Ashe feel as if he had exhausted all his fortune escaping from prison.


    More importantly, while maintaining the Sword Barrier, he had to keep his sword nted in the ground, unable to move!


    After all, the strength of the Swordsmanship Faction ultimately lies in destruction, not protection. That a Swordsmanship-derived Miracle could offer such strong defense, with its only drawback being limited mobility, was already more than one could ask for.


    Before this, Ashe hadnt been troubled by this Restriction and naturally hadnt thought about improving the Miracle.


    Now, Ashe had to make a cruel choice: give up the Sword Barrier and let Gersas blow away half his body with a single shot; maintain the Sword Barrier, and in a few seconds, Gerard would personally break through it!


    But Ashe quickly gave up on choosingbecause Gersas had opened up a third path for him.


    Gersas swiftly raised his left hand, thrust out his waist, and positioned his heavy sniper in his left hand and the dual Guns at his waist. All four guns appeared at once, but he didnt lock onto Ashe. Instead, he aimed at the other four Prison Escapees!


    He was too greedy, no longer satisfied with Ashe as his only prey. He wanted to take down everyone else as well. Because in just a few seconds, Gerard would arrive and suppress the entire scene with absolute power, and all Gersas would have to spend was a bit of arcane energy.


    What was he after? The bounty for the Prison Escapees? Or a favor from a Tri-wings Sanctuary Sorcerer?


    As an Orc Sorcerer who wed his way up from the bottom, Gersas had plenty of greedy reasons. Perhaps without meticulous thought, he simply seized every opportunity, every prey, a practice that might have cost him at times, but more often yielded rich rewards. Thus, he instinctively followed these survival Rules.


    But his prey this time were the most vicious criminals from Kaimon City.


    Harvey, running at the front, suddenly tossed a bone glowing with an inky green light into the air, which exploded the next second, clearly diverting the Shot Bullets meant for Harvey onto the bone! However, Harvey grunted, his left arm going limp and lifeless as if it had lost all bone.


    Igor, in an instant, let out a psychic shriek. The intense sonic waves formed a barrier with no dead angles, diverting the Shot Bullets to the right by sheer force. But they were too close, and a bullet grazed his shoulder, ripping arge chunk of flesh away. Igor stumbled to the ground in pain.


    Ronald, who specialized in long-range assassination, had no means of defending against such sniper Shot Bullets, but he didnt need toLangna immediately pulled him behind and, with a right hand glowing golden, turned and shed!


    Two Shot Bullets were forcefully deflected by Langnas strikes!


    Such was the might of a top-tier Two Wings Physical Sorcerer! Barehandedly intercepting sniper Shot Bullets!


    While Ronald was protected by Langna, he didnt idle either, throwing out a bunch of steel beads. The beads elerated with a sonic boom in midair, like missiles heading straight for Gersas!


    Although the process seems long in description, all of this happened in the blink of an eyeAshe erected the Sword Barrier for defense, Gersas raised his four heavy snipers for a point shoot, and the Prison Escapees defended and counterattacked.


    As the sole long-range damage dealer, Ronald did not disappoint Ashe. His steel bead storm forced Gersas to defend.


    This was the opening Ashe needed!


    But after this momentary dy, Ashe had fallen to the back of the group. The high tform was already difficult to climb, and he hadnt even pulled his sword from the ground yet.


    It is well known that in an escape, running slowly might keep one alive, but being thest is certain deaththe pursuer will always try their hardest to capture the easiest prey!


    He needed a Miracle, something that could at least keep him in step with the team and not be thest onegging behind!


    Heart Sword, Substitute, and Circtionthese three were the spirit techniques he had mastered most proficiently. Sword Barrier was the only Miracle he truly excelled at.


    When Ashes mind stirred, the effects of these three spirit techniques swirled incessantly in his mind, and the structure of the Miracle Procedure unfolded before his eyes. His insights into the realms of Swordsmanship and Water Faction zed like a fierce fire, consuming all his thoughts, leaving only the brightest crystallization of wisdom!


    Suddenly, he remembered Valcass final strike, the miraculous moment when the Swordswoman and he soared into the sky.


    Then Ashe moved. His right hand still resting on the Honeyed de embedded in the ground, his left hand suddenly produced another Honeyed de, wrapped in a sharp golden radiance.


    Using Substitute on the Honeyed de, letting the Heart Sword attach to the Substitute de.


    By now, Harvey had already stepped into the Virtual Realm Passage, and the rest of the team were only a few steps away from it. Ashe, however, remained unmoved, upturning the Substitute de in a spear-throwing gesture and hurling itit struck precisely at the topmost step of the tform!


    Then he simultaneouslyunched Earth Sword on both the Heart Sword-attached Substitute de and the Honeyed de!


    Two warm yellow pirs of light appeared on the tform at the same time. Igor nced at the light pir of the Substitute de as he passed by, and Ashes heart leapedany casual flick from Igor could shatter the Substitute debut it seemed Igor didnt n to waste another moment on Ashe and headed straight for the Virtual Realm Passage.


    By this point, Ashe was far behind. He could even hear the sound of Gerard breaking through the moonlight behind him. Ashe had never felt so strongly that his Destiny was in his hands, that any slight mistake would turn his fragile fate into bubbles, to be extinguished by the palm of his hand.


    Yet Ashe felt neither fear nor excitement, nor could he be considered calm.


    He was just very quiet.


    He quietly appreciated what kind of story Ashe would unfold next.


    With the Substitute de as the target coordinate, the Honeyed de as the starting coordinate, Heart Sword as the guide, Earth Sword to pave the way, Cirction to change thew!


    Miracle!


    Between the two warm yellow pirs of light, a faint yellow shadow flickered, and then nothing else stirredit was as if nothing had changed. But in that brief moment of breath, Ashe had already reached the uppermost step of the tform. He pulled out the Honeyed de from the ground, and the Substitute de below turned into a wisp of smoke and dissipated.


    Sess!


    Earth Sword became the path, Cirction eliminated friction, and with Heart Sword as the guide, Ashe, clutching the Honeyed de, sessfully switched ces with the Substitute de in an instant!


    This Miracle is called Bidirectional Rush!


    Langna and Ronald saw Ashe suddenly appear before them, their expressions slightly astonished, but they didnt ponder over it much, assuming it was Ashes hidden trump cardindeed, such a short-distance movement Miracle didnt seem to necessitate secrecy.


    The three of them were only ten steps away from the Virtual Realm Passage, and Igor, who had half a foot in the passage, looked back at them, his pupils suddenly dting.


    Although Primal Instincts werent triggered, Ashe didnt hesitate; he directly used the y Me Miracle on himself, cutting down the illusory Substitute, Purifying all Abnormal Statuses within his body! The blood that was about to stagnate inside him instantly returned to normal, and so Ashe only staggered slightly, without falling t on his face.


    It seemed Langna also had a Miracle to dispel Abnormal Statuses and waspletely unaffected, but only Ronald screamed as he fell to the ground, his entire body convulsing and paralyzed.


    And Igor himself took a nosedive into the Virtual Realm Passage, evidently afflicted at thest moment.


    Behind them, Gerards Chain Sword had extended to its longest state, tearing through the air with mournful screams, carrying a brutal trail of blood as it barreled forward!


    Undoubtedly, the blood-rted Abnormal Status they were experiencing was Gerards doing.


    As a member of the sacred bloodline with Tri-wings, Gerard might not favor the Blood Magic Faction, but that didnt mean he wasnt proficient in it!


    When ites to dealing with any flesh and blood creature, the Blood Magic Faction is the true specialist!


    Langna reacted extremely fast, kicking Ronald away with one swift kick. Ronalds abdomen emitted a dull crack, clearly indicating several broken ribs.


    The bald man turned around and headed back. Shadows on the ground swarmed over him like a horde of ck cats, equipping him with a suit of shadow armor that made his already towering and burly figure appear even more colossal, chilling, and fierce, as imposing as a pitch-ck Abyss.


    Boom!


    Langna blocked Gerards strike with his arms, the shadow armor almostpletely shattered, and his left foot carved a dent in the stone-bricked ground. Despite the damage, he managed to hold his ground, even sending Gerards Chain Sword flying upwards!


    On the other side, Ashe took hold of Ronald and, with astonishing speed, cast the y Me Miracle on him, dragging him by the cor as he sprinted away. Ronald, also known as the Woodpecker with the Golden Beak, quickly regained control of his body and stood up, the severe pain in his abdomen not affecting his movements.


    But he didnt rush to flee with Ashe; instead, he nced back.


    Gerard had emerged from the moonlight, his Chain Sword morphing into a longsword, his anger and humiliation making his already unhandsome face even more contorted. Langna stood silently, ready to face Gerards outburst.


    Everyone could predict the scene that would followno one believed Langna could withstand Gerards full-powered strike. The previous attack with the Chain Sword was weakened due to the distance, but now that Gerard had arrived at the scene, there was no need to bypass Langna; with one strike, he could tear Langna, Ronald, and Ashe to shreds!


    There was no better opportunity than now.


    This is myst chance.


    Its over.


    After murmuring this to himself, determination shed in Ronalds eyes. He suddenly stopped in his tracks, turned around with a flick of his right hand, and shot out a steel ball.


    The steel ball elerated furiously in mid-air, turning into a meteor that struck towards Langna!

 Chapter 170: So This Is What Hatred Feels Like

    Chapter 170: So This Is What Hatred Feels Like


    Before the prison break, Ashe had met with Ronald once in the cafeteria, alone.


    Ronald, to him, was nothing more than a tool, but it wouldnt be true to say Ashecked allpassion. Thus, Ashe had probed Ronalds ns after the escapewhether he intended to part ways with Langna or assassinate him.


    Should it be thetter, Ashe could reach an understanding with Ronaldregardless, after fulfilling Harveys Contract, the Prison Escapees were bound to sh.


    It had nothing to do with interests or grudges; it was purely a matter of trust.


    You can never be sure if others will turn against you, so you must strike first.


    When dealing with a group of Death row inmates who crawled out of a Manure pit, its best to assume the worst because they too judge others by their own base standards.


    If Ronald needed it, Ashe could covertly coordinate with Igor and Harvey to focus their attacks on Langna at the moment of rupture. After all, the bald Werewolf was indeed the strongest among them, and with him being a member of the ruling Race, Moonshadow, there were plenty of reasons to target Langna.


    However, Ronald tly rejected Ashes kindness. He was grateful for Ashes help and suggestions, but he firmly refused to let Ashe and the others interfere in his affairs.


    It wasnt that Ashe underestimated Ronald, but a gang assassin having principles about murder was just absurd. Ronald didnt exin much, just shook his head, indicating that their intervention would only ruin his revenge.


    I must make Langna feel true pain.


    Ahead was Gerard, wielding the destructive de, and behind was Ronald, calcting and full of resentment. Langnas face showed neither sorrow nor joy, only slightly tilting his head at the whistling sound of the steel beads.


    Then, a shadow descended.


    Thud!


    Gerards Chain Sword stopped mid-sh as it hit a person. He felt as if his miracle-infused de had struck the hardest metal or the heaviest mire; all his strength absorbed by the frail body before him.


    And this strange sensation of the sh


    Blood sttered like scalding whips across Langnas face as he watched the figure who had shielded him, slightly lowering his eyelids.


    Ronalds strength as a One Wing Sorcerer to be Golden Beak was due to a hidden Faction in the Virtual Realm that allowed him to create disposable steel beads equivalent to a Device Spirit. With careful preparation, the destructive power of these beads could rival that of a Two Wings. It was only natural that he could assassinate a Two Wings Sorcerer with the element of surprise on his side.


    One of these beads was known as the Flickering Steel Bead, which enabled Ronald to teleport to the beads location. After the prison escape, Langna had spent much effort to help Ronald gather the materials for the Flickering Steel Bead, aiding him in crafting one  Ronalds old safe houses for cing his items had long been destroyed and confiscated by the Sin Hunters Hall.


    There were too many situations where the Flickering Steel Bead could be used, such as three moments just before when it should have been used to escape danger, yet Ronald had not used it.


    He chose to use it here.


    As Gerard retracted his Chain Sword, Ronald copsed backward like a lump of mud, and Langna caught him. The blood-escaping wound revealed the ghastly and cold steel bones within.


    This was the secret behind Ronalds use of the steel beads; he did not rely on arcane energy to propel the beads but used his own steel bones as a base to generate a maic pull to guide them.


    Apart from being a casting medium, Ronalds steel bones also provided him with formidable defense. His steel skeleton was a Miracle in itself; the seemingly frail Ronald could disperse any impact across his entire steel frame, so much so that even Langna had never managed to bite through any of Ronalds bones.


    Therefore, when Gerards strike hit Ronald, the Golden Beak was already dead. He sessfully blocked Gerards full-powered attack, but the cost was his entire skeleton, organs, and even muscles being crushed by the powerful impact.


    Langna felt as though he wasnt holding a person but melting ice cream. Ronald seemed to have deliberately maintained the integrity of his face, allowing Langna to see his final expression clearly: a slight smile on his lips, eyes narrowed, as if he wereughing.


    From that expression, Langna could see hatred, a sense of release, and even a trace of pity.


    Langna then hoisted Ronalds Corpse onto his shoulder and, with one hand, pped the ground of the raised tform.


    Pray for the Dark Side of the Moon.


    The raised tform burst forth with hundreds of peculiar runes, and the Blood Moon cast down its dark red light. In an instant, the tform became an absolute forbidden zone, repelling everyone on it, including Langna and Gerard!


    Gerard unfolded his Tri-wings and hovered in midair, his gaze fixed on the Virtual Realm Passage being smeared by the dark light, his face extremely ugly: How could you


    You should have seen my resume, knowing that I was once an elite Moonshadow Priest, Langna said, cing Ronalds Corpse down, and ncing at the group of priests nearby watching the tform: During the Hunting Festival, the greatest use of a priest is not to bless, but to seal and destroy passages.


    After so many years, the Ritual Track of Dark Side of the Moon has hardly changed, and I can still easily trigger the Procedure prepared in the tform,pleting thest step, and invoking the power of the Moonshadow topletely forbid the Virtual Realm Passage.


    At this moment, Gerard was no longer in a hurry, having watched Ashe step into the Virtual Realm Passage; he reverted back to his usual demeanor as the Captain of the Blood Mad Hunters, But this also means you cannot escape.


    To me, Shattered Lake Prison, Kaimon City, or any other Kingdom makes no difference, Langna said, removing his cloak to reveal his fierce, hairless face: Its just that Ronald longed to escape from prison, and I did everything in my power to fulfill his wish.


    Ashe just helped Ronald; I hope this return gift will satisfy Ashe.


    Ashe Heath, he truly is a devil more beguiling than a Bewitcher, Gerard sighed: Even a Moonshadow traitor is willing to sacrifice himself for his escape.


    Who said I was going to sacrifice myself?


    Langna took off his shirt, revealing a physique as sculpted and robust as marble.


    Do you mean to say you want to escape right in front of me? Gerard flicked his Chain Sword lightly, shaking off the fresh blood to form a mist of red: Im not a sole believer in the power of arcane energy, but you just exhausted all your strength to barely fend off my Chain Sword. I dont think you have the capability.


    Moreover, Im in a foul mood tonight and want to get home for some rest. After all, Im now working overtime on a voluntary basis. The White-haired Hunters red eyes swept through with a fierce light: I wont adhere to the safety uses in the Sin Hunters Hall Enforcement Code anymore, and I will show no mercy to anyone trying to stop me from clocking out.


    Langna seemed impervious to Gerards murderous intent, calmly asking: As a favored child of the Blood Moon Sovereign, do you know the difference between the Moonshadow and the sacred bloodline?


    Gerard answered without hesitation: Moonshadow gives life, sacred bloodline guards death.


    Yes, Moonshadow gives life, sacred bloodline guards death. This represents the social division ofbor between the two races and also summarizes their character traits. The sacred bloodline possesses a death-like calmness, while the Moonshadow always maintains a newborn-like passion. Langna nced at the curious Moonshadow Priests nearby: But in my view, this phrase could also mean that the sacred bloodline are all dirty adults, and the Moonshadow are all mischievous children.


    Recalling his subordinate Emma, the werewolf with therge tail, Gerard had to admit that Langna was right. At that moment, the White-haired Hunter realized something and stared intently at Langna: Langna Chios, you seem


    Only the pure of heart, those who do not forget to pray at night, can transform into a Moonshadow on the night when the henbane blooms under the full moon. Langna said: Since I was young, I realized I was different from the other Moonshadow electors. They are full of passion, emotionally impulsive, pure and naive, simply greedy, whereas I am the exact oppositeI was born without affection, without desire.


    Interestingly, I still became a Moonshadow, a werewolf who can only transform in the shadows. The Priests told me to hide myself, but most spirits in the Moonshadow faction need emotions as fuel, so I had to seek the help of the Affection spirit.


    Perhaps it was luck, or perhaps misfortune, but in the Virtual Realm, I came across a set of Taboo Ritual Tracks from the Mind Faction. The effect of the Ritual Track is to harvest emotions from others, seemingly toplement those miracles that require the burning of vast amounts of emotion.


    But for me, emotions are exactly what I need. I need to harvest feelings; I need something to fill the emptiness inside.


    I modified the Ritual Track, but the process became more bloody. I was quickly caught, and my secret was exposed. However, the Church didnt execute methey never execute a fellow member. So, I was sent to Shattered Lake Prison, where I could continue my research.


    I would nt Affection in the targets heart, letting it overflow throughout their body. I tried my best to act out the semnce of love, but to no avail. Me, without emotions, even after harvesting so many emotions, fundamentally could not understand or experience them.


    But watching Ronald die before me, the wastnd in my heart experienced its first sprout. Langna clenched his blood-stained fist: After nine years, I finally acquired emotion.


    Gerard asked with interest, Is it love?


    No, its hate. Langnas tone finally fluctuated: Ronald wanted to die in front of me because he hated me!


    He knew my emotions were a facade, knew that any form of revenge was meaningless to me. The only way to make me suffer was to make me feel emotion.


    So he nned to escape from prison, to leave the Blood Moon, to umte hope, to gather joy, and then choose an appropriate time to die in front of me in the most tragic way, like a bubble bursting.


    That way, the twisted tree that grew in his heart, watered with hope, fertilized with joy, basking in the sunlight of freedom, yet rooted in the soil of pain, would bear the most vibrant fruit and nt it deep within me.


    He seeded, and so did I.


    Langna raised his thumbs and with Ronalds blood drew two streaks under his eyes.


    So this is what hate feels like.


    Seeing this, Gerards brows twitched violently, as unpleasant memories surged back into his mind.

 Chapter 171: Captured Once More

    Chapter 171: Captured Once More


    If I had killed him that day, perhaps everything would be different.


    Gerard shook his head, his tone filled with regret: You are merely victims of the Four Pirs Cult Without meeting him, you wouldnt have been seduced, and the peaceful prison life would not have crumbled.


    Ashe Heath, indeed a source of disaster.


    Im not in the habit of shirking responsibility, nor do I believe I was bewitched, Langna said. On the contrary, Im grateful to himif not for this series of events, my Ritual would not have beenpleted, nor would I have gained sentiment.


    However, when ites to defining him, we can reach a consensus: he truly is a charismatic being, capable of crafting an unpredictable stage of Destiny, one that allows us to break free from the mundane Wings, if you will.


    Wings?


    Isnt that what allows us, shackled and bound, to soar?


    Gerard had lost interest in the victims nonsensical ramblings. With his finger pointed at Langna, the Miracle he had silently readied during their conversation activated, and moonlight transformed into chains that tightly bound the only remaining Prison Escapee.


    Congrattions on gaining sentiment, it seems you can now repent and pray properly.


    Langna did not resist, speaking calmly: The 15th of each month is the Night of zing Blood, marking the Blood Moons closest approach to the earth; the 1st of every month is the Night of Dim Blood, representing the Blood Moons furthest distance.


    The Moonshadow have a trait: the more intense the Blood Moons night, the stronger the Moonshadow be, and vice versa. Thus, the Moonshadow are strongest on the night of the 15th, and weakest on the night of the 1st.


    As a Church defector, the shame of the Moonshadow, even the Blood Moon spits on me, a beast rejected. Langnas voice grew more vehement: Only on the Night of Dim Blood do I be whole.


    Look, now even the clouds can obscure the Blood Moon.


    Gerard looked up to see a cloud drifting across the night sky, the already dim moonlight further obscured by the overcast, and in the chaos, the camps lighting had been knocked down earlier, leaving the ce shrouded in darkness.


    Bang!


    Langnas chains of Miracle were snapped, and a thick shadow engulfed him, transforming into a fierce and evil deep monster. The darkness of the entire space seemed to thicken, and for some reason, Gerard could feel an emotion named hatred suffusing the pitch-ck surroundings, as if hundreds of wolves were watching him from the shadows!


    Wow.


    Acolyte Coir and the Priests gazed up at the spectacle with their mouths agape in surprise, pping their hands: Thats amazing.


    Quick, make a wish, ask for my mercy, or Ill throw you right back.


    Ashe, supporting Igor, moved through the Virtual Realm Passage: I am Ashe Heath, Cult Leader of the Four Pirs Cult; Im capable of anything. Saving your life without having you sign a ve Contract is already quite generous of me. Now, if you dont make a wish, dont me me for being ruthless.


    Fine, lets sign a ve Contract, said Igor, his face pale but still managing a smile. Need help drafting the Contract? Ill give you a 20% discount.


    Damn, Ashe felt like dropping him right there and then.


    After stepping into the Virtual Realm Turbulence, Ashe found Igor bleeding profusely inside. Igor was already wounded by a sniper shot from Gersas that had torn away a chunk of flesh, and now he had been bound by Gerards Blood Magic and had fallen to the ground, bleeding copiously.


    Igor wasnt a Battle Sorcerer and could have kept going if he gritted his teeth, but this dy overwhelmed him with intense pain that drowned his reasoning. Ashe used the y Me Miracle on him and found he couldnt even stand up, crawling on the ground like a baby. Unable to bear the sight, Ashe helped him leave.


    Logically, whether Ashe ignored him or finished him off would have been reasonable, given their sand-level acquaintance, which wasnt worth fussing over and could be toppled by a mere breeze.


    Furthermore, with Igor holding a wish over Ashes head, Ashe had to worry about Igor possibly shouting for him toe out and stand on his head as a chance to kill this Bewitcher, which would be the rational thing to do.


    But then Ashe considered: could this be the Bewitchers test? If he dared to act or flee, the Bewitcher might immediately make a wish forcing Ashe to go back and kiss Gerards toes.


    Igor had a penchant for manipting peoples hearts, despicable and shameless by nature, with a fondness for harming others without benefiting himself; these were indeed the kinds of schemes and tricks he would carry out, and they had to be guarded against.


    In fact, Ashe had to admit to himself that even though their rtionship was one of mutual use, Igor had indeed provided him with a great deal of help.


    Without Igors plotting, neither the escape from prison nor the entry into the Virtual Realm Passage would have been possible.


    Ashe would need to prepare himself mentally to burn bridges before crossing the river, as it was not something he could do lightly.


    For Ashe, doing bad things was an active skill that required casting time, and given the short decision-making time now, Ashe could only choose to help him escape.


    However, Ashe had his own little schemes. If Igor used his wish here, then he would no longer have any means to restrain Ashe. Yet, Igor was well-versed in game theory, understanding that a card not yed held the greatest threat. No matter how much Ashe threatened or enticed, Igor would not loosen his lips, taking advantage without paying, but his body honestly leaned heavily on Ashe, taking full advantage of the Cult Leader.


    The passage soon reached its end, and looking at the interweaving exit of the currents, Ashe exhaled: Finally


    Youre not leading us the wrong way, are you? Igor gasped, If we go out there, we might see Gerards surprised face.


    I wouldnt get lost I hope not, Ashe said, not entirely certain himself. After all, though the passage was supposed to be one-way, it was hard to say whether the directions had been reversed when he had helped Igor up.


    It was all Igors fault, making him doubt himself.


    If they had really taken the wrong path, he would have to strongly request that Igor be transferred to another Blood Moon Prison, just to avoid being taunted to death by him for the rest of his life


    With a mind full of chaotic thoughts, Ashe mustered his courage, supporting Igor as they stepped into the unknown Kingdom.


    What met their eyes was not a massive Blood Moon but a lonely night sky and a bright highway stretching into the distance?


    The subsequent sensation of stepping into the void, the intense feeling of weightlessness, made Ashe realize in an instantanother Virtual Realm Passage suspended in mid-air!


    This is why Exploring the Virtual Realm Passage is so difficult: in addition to the ipleteness of the Virtual Realm Passage and the animosity that different Kingdoms harbor against Invaders, many explorers might just fall to their deaths as soon as they step out of the passage!


    Speaking of which, Ashe remembered that one of the blessings that Priests give to Adventurers includes Light as a Feather, specifically to deal with this kind of situation!


    Instinctively, he spread his Silver Wings and shouted, Igor, spread your wings!


    Huh? It took Igor almost a second to catch up with Ashes thinking, and by the time he unfurled his Silver Wings, they had both already hit the ground.


    Or more urately, fallen into a cage.


    Ashe pushed Igor, who was leaning on him, trying to prop himself up to survey the situation, only to see Harvey also sleeping in the cage. At the same time, he smelled aforting scent, like nkets just warmed by the sun, and like the aroma of food that greets you before you even enter your home


    Ambush, trap Ashes instinct was to cast y Me Miracle on himself, but his thoughts were slowing down, and even his arcane energy was bing sluggish. He struggled to turn his head, and through a blurry vision, he only saw a violet silhouette outside the cage.


    ording to the Prophecy of the Gospel, tonight only three People from the Exotic Lands will transmigrate. Tie them up, put on the Arcane Lock Cors, and leave immediately.


    Lets hope this gift will please the Four Pirs Cult.


    (End of Volume One: Sea of Knowledge)

 Chapter 172: Freya Extra

    Chapter 172: Freya Extra


    Adra, why did you have to drag me here? Im in a hurry to get home and catch up on my shows. I still havent seen the finale of Sorcerer 100% fromst night


    Because the Eastern Army won by a slight margin, it ended with a solo female lead, and the pair lived happily ever after.


    Adra, I havent watched it yet!


    Well, now you dont have to, unless youre part of the Eastern Army like me.


    Im with the Northeast Alliance


    Adra raised an eyebrow. Sorcerer 100% featured four main female characters, with the Audience divided into East, South, West, and North, each corresponding to a different character archetype: the caring confidante, the childhood sweetheart, the love at first sight, and the energetic ymate. In the finale voting, the Eastern Armys solo victory, the Western Armys solo victory, and a free-for-all among all four were the top contenders, with the vote counts closely contested. Thus, no one could predict the winner until thest day, right before the finale was broadcast.


    But the choice of the Northeast Alliance was utterly absurd, an option so niche it couldnt get more obscure. Typically, female Audience members would choose a solo victory ending, right?


    Only male Audience members would opt for a finale with multiple female leads, but even then, if they chose multiples, theyd usually want all of them, not just two


    Noticing Adras gaze, Freya became defiant: Though I know theres little hope, I cant help it. Im just that kind of romantic!


    A romantic Bewitcher? Thats a first Romantic and yet you choose two?


    I only like these two; Im not against the others, but I wont force myself to like them too!


    During their casual conversation, the taxi came to a smooth stop at the curb. The Human driver in the front seat pulled the universal hand from the console, its slender steel-chain fingers extracting a freshly printed receipt from the fare machine. Adra immediately took it, scanning the receipt with a Chip toplete the payment.


    Have a wonderful evening.


    As they stepped out, Adra noticed Freya looking thoughtfully at the departing taxi. Curious, she asked, Whats up? Dont tell me youre interested in that driver? If so, why didnt you ask for his Curtain ount


    Its not that, Freya shook her head, Im just curious why he would buy a car that requires a universal hand to operate, instead of one with a steering wheel Could it be that the former is a bit cheaper?


    You dont understand because you never took sses in the Mechanical Faction. Adraughed. Driving with a universal hand can be more responsive, and its easier to control the vehicle in case of emergencies. Now, basically all low-end cars have switched to universal control panels. Taxis, excavators, construction vehicles, and other upational vehicles havepletely eliminated steering wheels. All operators must use the universal hand.


    Steering wheels are now basically exclusive to luxury cars, but the rich dont drive themselves; they hire drivers to handle the steering wheel


    So, does the driver need to have normal hands to reflect the luxury aspect?


    Adra looked at Freya with surprise. Toe up with such an insightfulment, youve entered the realm of upper-ss thinking. I only learned these bits of knowledge while chatting at the casino But cheer up, weve arrived at your favorite ce!


    Freya turned around and saw a six-story building bathed in enchanting purple and red Lighting. The name of the establishment, Mimosa, was crafted in Illusions that flickered in and out of the night sky. The entrance was bustling with peopleing and going, and taxis were constantly dropping off and picking up customers, indicating the poprity of the venue.


    The highest-end leisure center in Kaimon City? Spending once here is enough to cover four times the expense elsewhere


    Thats right! Adra said, hooking her arm with Freyas as they entered. Dont worry about the money; Ive won quite a bit recently. This treat is on me; you just need to enjoy yourself! Consider it a celebration for finally getting rid of that enchanting jerk!


    Arent you the one who doesnt likeing to ces like this?


    Once in a while is fine, especially if its to keep youpany. I cant stand to see you with that resentful look all the time.


    Freya touched her own cheek. Is it that obvious?


    Anyway, the best way to forget a man is not to delete him, but to rece him with more men! Come on, this ce definitely wont disappoint you!


    The first floor of the establishment featured a bathing hall with ten entrances, categorized by different genders and races to streamline the flow of guests. Upon entry, patrons would change clothes, receive an item in the form of a hand tag, and then they could bathe. For those interested, there were options like hot springs, saunas, scrubs, and massages. The second floor housed the Rest Hall,plete with a buffet, tabletop game rooms, card rooms, bamboo mat rooms, and even a casino. Thus, the first two floors were typically abuzz with noise and excitement, a ce where even those without particr desires could rx and unwind.


    After having their fill, Adra and Freya arrived at the elevator hall on the second floor. The attendant there to greet them was a beauty whose gender was indiscernible, dressed in a tight uniform which entuated their curvaceous backside and t chest, their skin was smooth, and their pupils were a surprising shade of pink with heart shapes. The attendants voice was distinctly androgynous, May I ask which floor you would like to visit?


    Which floor is the Mud Caf? Adra inquired.


    Is this your first time here? In Crystal Fate, theres no distinction like Mud Caf or Tea Cafe, the attendant replied with a slight smile, more seductive than Freya could ever imagine, The third floor is Crystal Fate, offering custom service rooms suitable for individual guests or small groups of three or fewer. Guests are wee to take their time selecting their preferences and enjoy services in the absolute soundproof privacy of these rooms. If there are any special requests, including but not limited to costumes, items, or even bio-modification, Crystal Fate will strive to amodate.


    The fourth floor is the Encounter Hall, which naturally sets the stage for variousmon scenarios such as a Nursery, ssroom, City Hall, office, street, forest, library, elevator, Restroom, Treatment room, and so on. All staff members are dressed ording to the respective scenes, each wearing a Bracelet on their left hand. Guests can either change into costumes to partake in role-ying or directly enjoy the services offered. The only downside is theck of privacy and soundproofing, which requires guests to be a bit more open-minded.


    The fifth floor caters to those with particr tastes, which are quite unique. Since it seems youve just finished eating, I wont go into detail to avoid upsetting your digestion. The attendant then presented a piece of paper, covering most of it and only revealing the first line, The mildest service offered here is this one.


    Freya was rtively unfazed, as she often browsed through Curtains for entertainment and thus had a stronger psychological tolerance. Adra, on the other hand, turned pale and felt nauseous on the spot.


    The attendant swiftly pocketed the paper and gently pressed on Adras nape, tenderly kissing her lips. Adra rxed almost immediately, and as the attendant drew back their hand, they smiled, Feeling better now?


    Much. Adra, touching her lips, seemed slightly dazed. So sweet


    With a smile, the attendant continued, The sixth floor is the Rest area for staff, off-limits to guests. Which floor would you like to go to?


    Adra looked at Freya, who after a moments thought said, The third floor.


    Alright, the attendant pressed the button for them and noticing Adras nces, winked, My badge number is 115, Im currently avable for requests. Im quite popr though, so if you want to request me, you should do it quickly~


    Even the usually stoic Adra, known for her calm demeanor in the casino, blushed. Reaching the third floor with Freya, they were promptly led to an avable room by a staff member and handed a palm-sized Knowledge Screen for selecting services based on their preferences.


    Any particr Race youre interested in?


    Um


    Any preferences in attire? Prison garb? Hunter outfit?


    Um


    Adra, noting Freyasck of enthusiasm, asked curiously, Why do you seem so disinterested? Youre not living up to the Bewitcher name.


    But I just dont have any desires


    The attendant offered helpfully, If you cant decide on a Mud Worker that suits your fancy, how about we let some of the ready Mud Workerse by for you to take a look? Maybe youll find one that catches your eye. Do you have any general requirements?


    Adra nudged Freya with her elbow, What does that dog of a man youre with look like?


    After a moments thought, Freya described, Human male, a head taller than me, probably in his twenties. As for looks not as attractive as me, always lounging around but with a charming smile, handsome in profile


    Go with that description, some variation is okay, Adra suggested.


    Very well, Mimosa will strive to amodate your needs.


    Soon, ten young and handsome Puppies


    1


    stood in line in the room. Some had rugged features with white hair, looking handsome in Hunter uniforms, almost like Gerard working a side job after his shift. Others had dazzling styles, with eyes sparkling like stars, reminiscent of celebrities who stepped right out of a Shadow Drama. There were also those with a mischievously charming smile, exuding a foxy allure, their every move embodying the essence of a lover.


    Even Adra, whose threshold for excitement had been heightened by the gambling, felt her heart flutter. She tugged at Freyas hand and said, I think the second one from the left is quite nice, the third one too; the two in the middle look alike, they must be going for a twin style, and theres also Freya, which one do you like? Wait, arent you the Bewitcher, dont you want them all?


    I think none of them are really to my taste.


    Adra was taken aback and waved her hand in resignation, Bring in another group.


    Any you like?


    She shook her head.


    Another group.


    The third one on the right has to be better than that dog of a man youre with, right? Im even tempted!


    She shook her head again.


    Another group.


    Ten minutester, Adra sighed, Sister, my dear sister Freya, what do you really want?


    Freya thought for a moment, then looked up and said, Adra, thank you for your concern, but Im really not interested. How about


    How about what?


    How about we just cash in instead?


    Get lost. Adra kicked her yfully, I rarely treat you, and youre making it so difficult.


    Freyaughed, Since its rare that wee here, you should enjoy yourself, Adra. I think Ill head home to catch up on my dramas.


    Arent you with the Northeast Alliance?


    Even if its not the ending I like, I still want to see it through to the end.


    After saying goodbye to Adra, Freya returned to the first floor to change clothes and left the glitzy pce. Standing on the bustling street, she looked up at the crimson Blood Moon reigning over the earth. Neon lights painted the city with a rich palette of colors. The city, as always, was fixated on Entertainment to the brink of death. The damaged buildings from the 422 Incident had beenpletely repaired and rebuilt. It seemed as though Fernand Snows Blood Moon Tribunal hadnt brought any change to the city; the Blood Moon had returned to its tranquil state.


    The posters stered on thempposts advertising for the Combat League seemed to narrate that the wheels of history had already begun to turn.


    Freya had intended to take a taxi back to her apartment since it was a bit far, but after thinking it over, she felt some aversion to the idea and instead chose to rent a nearby bicycle. After unlocking it with her Chip, she cycled home.


    Passing by the Merle Family convenience store, Freya went in to buy some snacks and liquor. At checkout, the cashier said, Our Moon Sugar from the Snow White Brand is currently on a buy-three-get-one-free promotion. If you have our membership card, you can get a 50% discount. Would you be interested in buying some to take home?


    Freya nced at the prominently disyed Snow White Brand Moon Sugar on the counter and shook her head: I dont need it.


    After half an hour, Freya finally arrived at her apartment building. Just as she reached the third floor, she smelled the familiar scent of L Fatty, a surge of inexplicable excitement prompted her to quicken her pace, only to see a delivery person handing over a L Fatty takeout to her neighbor.


    She made way for the delivery person to leave and then, with a quiet sigh, Bewitcher took out her keys and opened her door. As soon as she turned on the light, she was fiercely attacked by a predatory bird of prey


    Meow~=w=


    Little String, Im back.


    Freya quickly poured out some cat food and cleaned the litter box. Watching her Scottish Fold cat feast, she gently stroked its back and asked, How are you feeling? Does it hurt anywhere?


    Little String looked at her puzzled: Meow (Do you actually understand what Im meowing)?


    Realizing she may have revealed too much of her intellect, Bewitcher absentmindedly ruffled the cats head and went to take a shower. For some reason, these past few days she had the urge to dress after showering, which she had resisted until now, but today her mood seemed particrly off, so she just went with it.


    When she emerged from the bathroom in her underwear, Freya had the feeling that her life was about to change dramatically.


    She turned on the Knowledge Screen and went to a video site to watch the finale of Sorcerer 100%. Naturally, a 30-second advertisement was the first thing to appear. However, after ying for 10 seconds, it was followed by a 20-second announcement from the Sin Hunters Hall:


    The extremely vicious criminal Ghoul Langna Chios is still atrge. The offender possessesbat abilities ranging from Two Wings to Tri-wings. Citizens are urged to contact the headquarters of Sin Hunters Hall immediately upon receiving any information. A reward of 50 Gold Coins for his capture dead or alive, and 5 Silver Coins for information leading to his capture.


    Con Artist Igor Bukin, Necrophiliac Archibald Harvey, and Demon Saint Ashe Heath have self-exiled from the Blood Moon Kingdom; the bounty has been revoked.


    He really left Blood Moon, huh


    Freyay sprawled on the table, watching Sorcerer 100% on the Knowledge Screen, suddenly feeling a bit listless and even beginning to tire of this happiness that existed only on the screen.


    She turned off the page and justy there, staring into space, until Little String came over to push her head and affectionately rubbed against her cheek, with a look of Im really worried about you, master.


    After a moment, Freya rubbed her moist eyes, hugged Little String tightly, and felt rejuvenated!


    Nearly suffocated, Little String struggled to escape from her embrace and hid in a corner, licking his paws as if hed just survived a disaster. Freya didnt pay him any more attention and energetically opened New Folder  Used Countless Times!


    Goodbye is goodbye, the next one will be better behaved!


    Lets check out something nice to rejuvenate!


    First part, second part, third part, fourth part


    Half an hourter, still unable to find the right Casting Materials in the entire folder, Freya pondered for a moment, then opened her Chip and chose Gallery.


    The Chip could take pictures directly; the camera equipment was naturally her own eyes, essentially capturing and saving what she saw directly onto the Chip. However, because such photos took up a lot of space, and the storage on the Chip was very limited, only the most precious photos were worth saving.


    Freya had once thought about taking a picture of the Cult Leader, but thetter was surprisingly vignt and did not match his appearance. Every time Freya tried to take a photo, Ashe would immediately turn his head, avoiding Bewitchers gaze several times in a row, even while sleeping.


    Until one night, on a whim, Freya pounced on Ashe in the middle of the night and pinned him down. Taking advantage of the fact that Ashe had no room to evade, she sneakily snapped a side profile of him. Although the night raid was ultimately unsessful, she had captured a precious close-up of Kaimons most vicious criminal in a century.


    At that time, the room was dark except for the faint glow of Blood Moon light streaming through the window, casting a mix of panic and shyness on his face. Gazing at the photo, Bewitcher couldnt help but open the newly purchased alcoholic drink and started chugging it down.


    Minutester, the chair was soaked with the spilled drink.


    Freya moved to another soft chair, and identally, the faux leather got wet with the drink.


    Then, lying on the bed, another ident happened, and the sheets got wet with the drink.


    But after three rounds of drinks, Freya was finally a bit drunk and tired. She grabbed a tissue, wiped the spill carelessly, and closed her eyes contentedly to sleep.


    After a while, Little String jumped onto the bed and nudged Bewitcher, checking if she was dead. Freya opened her eyes and scratched Little Strings chin. Looking at the photo on the Holographic Screen, she sighed helplessly and a faint smile appeared on her lips.


    Ive used you up, but I still want to see you.


    I might really miss you.


    Footnote:<ol start="1"><li>


    Puppies():


    Derived from a categorization used by Japanese girls for boys. It originally refers to unweaned puppies, but now it is a collective term for young, clingy, cute, and sunny boys.</li></ol>

 Chapter 173: The Swordswomans Interlude (1)

    Chapter 173: The Swordswomans Interlude (1)


    Gales, the second floor of Swordflower Colleges Training Hall.


    Compared to the first floor, the second floor is much more austere, with an open space nearly devoid of any equipment. However, the walls and floor are covered with Razer Meteorite flooring, which, with its deep blue serpentine patterns, can effectively disperse and resist any attack. Reinforced with magical arrays, it can even withstand Sanctuary-level destructive miracles, making it a durable location that can endure all kinds of abuse.


    The only downside is the significant light pollution from the Razer flooring.


    This stage is specifically provided for Sorcerers to battle. Since most miracles cause severe damage to the surroundings, Sorcerers looking to sh at full strength must do so on a designated dueling ground. Engaging in unauthorized duels in public is punishable by fines and a three-point deduction on ones Spellcasting license.


    By now, its past 11 p.m., and most Sorcerer Apprentices have either returned to their dorms to sleep or ventured into the Virtual Realm Adventure. On the vast second floor, only two Swordcerers are left sparring, their released Sword Qi scraping white streaks across the Razer flooring!


    Hiss


    Hearing the sound like that of a thread being pulled taut, Felix quickly retracted his sword and retreated.


    The Red-haired Swordswoman, Sonyas unique miracle, Water Moon, had already made waves throughout the Gales magic colleges, and it was recently included in the Stars Miracle Catalog, rated as a mid-tier Radiant Silver miracle. Countless Swordcerers were awaiting Sonya to lift the Restriction and grant licensing, eager to witness the splendor of the Counterattack Miracle.


    In the Stars, miracles are evaluated through a detailed system, divided into Silver, Gold, Spectrum, and Void, with each tier further subdivided into three levels: Dim, True, and Radiant. Each level is then split into Upper, Mid, and Lower Ranks, totaling 36 levels.


    If Sonya can continue to optimize the mid-tier Radiant Silver Water Moon, either by recing its precious spirit with amon one or by further addressing the casting ws, then Water Moon could be upgraded to upper-tier Radiant Silver, bing one of the most elite miracles essible to Silver Sorcerers!


    Even the Family had, unprecedentedly, tasked Felix with securing a long-term licensing agreement for Water Moon from Sonya, at any cost. Built upon the foundation of the Vibration Sword, a technique for which Vlozrada is renowned, acquiring this miracle was crucial for the Family simply to diversify their array of miracles, let alone for the sake of a mid-tier Radiant Silver rarity.


    In general, Radiant Level miracles are considered trump cards for punching above ones weight, True Level miracles are brag-worthy achievements, and Dim Level miracles are decent.


    Why, you ask, is there such aplex rating system for miracles? Naturally, its to better price the miracles, ensuring buyers feel the price is reasonable and sellers find the price fair.


    After all, Star Extreme Hall, the body responsible forpiling the Stars Miracle Catalog, employs hundreds of magic practitioners and thousands of part-time consulting magicians. They all serve this miracle rating system, on which the livelihoods of thousands of magicians depend.


    Water Moon is incredibly quick to activate, powerful, and its a Counterattack Miracle, fully deserving of its mid-tier Radiant Silver rating. However, after several days of sparring, Felix had learned how to counter itby retreating immediately upon hearing the sound of the Moon Silk tounch a Long-range Attack, he could easily break the miracle!


    But as Felix forcefully interrupted his attack to withdraw, he realized his opponent wasnt wrapped in Moon Silk. Instead, she took the opportunity to attack, targeting his exposed nk!


    A trap!


    But Felix retreated too quickly; he couldnt defend in time!


    The Female Swordsman with red hair executed a Vibration Sword attack, an Uppercut sh from below that catapulted Felix into the air!


    Killing Intent Uppercut sh!


    Evil Light sh!


    Rupture Wave sh!


    Felix was sent flying, unable to touch the ground. The Vibration Sword has two main characteristics: dispersion to enhance the strike area and vibration to increase lethality. But if a Swordcerer fully masters these traits, they can develop a third characteristicforciblyunching the opponent into the air!


    Using the Uppercut sh, a Vibration Sword practitioner can send their enemy flying, stripping them of any leverage, turning them into sitting ducks, ready to be sliced at will!


    Felix had been careful to avoid Sonyas Uppercut shes, never giving her a chance. He didnt expect that beneath her seemingly average looks and beautiful exterior, she had such a dirty trick up her sleeve, feigning the use of Water Moon to make him retreat, then following up with an Uppercut sh, creating a perfect opportunity for attack.


    At this rate, he would beboed to death!


    However, being suspended in air is almost a death sentence for a Swordcerer, as most sword techniques require solid ground to generate force, so


    Just as Sonya was about tounch another Evil Light sh, Felix suddenly spit at her. With the addition of a sinister and gentle breeze, it instantly transformed into a stench-filled, vile rain!


    Miracle: Sorrow Wind Erosion Rain!


    Oh?


    Sonya let out a surprised and delighted sound, casually blocking all the rain with a Vibration Sword.


    Felix, havingnded smoothly, no longer concealed his strength. He blew three times in quick session, creating three hovering Wind des!


    Miracle: Tooth Wind!


    Then, with a light touch of her lips and a cross stroke, she drew ten intertwined acidic water marks like a!


    Miracle: Poison de Web!


    How interesting, really interesting! Sonya gradually tore through Felixs miracles, her mouth curving slightly upward, her pale red eyes seemingly transforming into vertical pupils: Felix, you


    Snap!


    This time, Sonya held nothing back, preempting Felixs miracle cast with a Killing Intent Evil Light sh. The crimson sword light shed through Felixs left arm, spilling deep red blood and exposing the bone!


    At the sight of blood, Sonyas eyes gleamed, and her grip on the wooden sword tightened. However, she quickly came back to her senses and, dropping the wooden sword, hurriedly said, Ill help you to the Treatment room


    No, no need. Felix hid his left hand behind him, shaking his head repeatedly: Its just a minor injury. I have a Hydrotherapy spirit; Ill heal myself and take the opportunity to improve my status in the Water Faction Realm.


    So this is what its like to be a Noble young master, huh? Even though hes not pursuing the path of a Medic, he still carries a Hydrotherapy spirit with him.


    The rustic girl expressed her amazement at the city dwellers wealth and peeked at Felixs left hand, only to realize that he had been wearing a glove, perhaps an Item that could enhance the effects of miracles.


    As for the injury Well, since the hand wasnt severed, it was considered a minor injury, not worth mentioning. Sonya felt justified in letting Felix take care of it himself.


    But why didnt you call a halt when your Star Robe got torn?


    It probably got torn in mid-air; I didnt notice it at the time.


    Both of them had ayer of film around them, like dreamy bubbles, which would absorb all damage when they were attacked, ensuring the duelists safety.


    This is the privilege of being an Academy Sorcerer: the Star Robe. Before a duel, get it enchanted by a Professor, and you can revel in the thrill of full-fledged battle without worrying about identally blowing your ssmates head off.


    Looks like thats it for tonight, Felix sighed with relief. Although battling with you, Sonya, has been incredibly beneficial


    Then lets continue, Sonya said, still bursting with energy. Youve still got your other hand intact.


    But! I! Am! Injured! Felix said through clenched teeth. Lets take a break over there, and Ill tend to my wounds.


    Sonya had been challenging him to Sorcerer duels every evening recently, and at first, Felix was happy to learn from a Genius. However, Sonyas ferocity escted night after night. On the first night, Felix could handle his injuries, but by the second night, he needed to seek a Medic, and from the third night on, he would barely bid farewell to Sonya before calling someone to send him to the Treatment room, all the while cursing her in his mind, wondering if the rustic girl ever got her period.


    If it werent for the little pride left, and his unwillingness to lose to a peer, Felix would have long refused Sonyas unteral thrashing.


    But he refused to believe it. He was a revenger who had been burdened from a young age; how could he be afraid of a vulgar rustic girl with nothing but Talent?


    He could lose, but he couldntck the courage to draw his Sword against a rustic girl!


    However


    Felix sat down and looked at his bleeding left hand. If it hadnt been for this ident, their fight probably would havested until midnight. And based on past experiences, the rustic girl tended to be more excited and wild as the battle progressed, especially during thest half hour, which was like a storm wreaking havoc. Felixs wooden sword had been smashed to pieces several times.


    Being injured in one hand and getting off an hour early didnt seem like such a bad deal?


    Your Wind Magic, Water Art, and Poison Magic are all at the Silver Realm, right? Sonya suddenly asked. Did you start learning them as a child, or did you pick them up recently?


    Felix hesitated for a moment, Recently.


    You should have given up Swordsmanship a long time ago.


    Theres no way, Felix said as he treated his wounds with Hydrotherapy spirit. Swordsmanship is the key to Vlozrada, and its the foundation of my survival. Sometimespromises must be made for survival. Without life, theres no chance for Talent to flourish. The importance of each is clear at a nce


    Im not listening, Im not listening, Im not listening, Sonya covered her ears. I refuse to get dragged into the loves and hates, the conflicts of interest of the Noble circle.


    It was you who brought up the topic, Felix rxed and snorted coldly. Tomorrow, I wonte to duel with you anymore.


    Sonya looked at him in astonishment, then grabbed the corner of her clothes, looking down, lost in thought.


    Felix felt somewhat pleased with Sonyas reaction; he hadnt expected the rustic girl to show embarrassment. He had thought she would mock him for running away upon hearing those words.


    Um what about a newspaper?


    What?


    I could use a rolled-up newspaper, Sonya gestured as if rolling a paper. How about I fight you with a newspaper?


    Felix was taken aback, his face turning red: Im not afraid to duel with you!


    Not even with a newspaper? I could use a finger, I can even invoke Swordsmanship spirit with one finger!


    Felix felt that if the conversation continued, he would be infuriated to death by the rustic girl, so he cut it off decisively: My Soul has recovered well, and tomorrow I can enter the Virtual Realm. I wont have time to duel with you!


    A few days ago, after Felix passed through the Whirlpool portal in the Virtual Realm, he was taken for First Blood by a ying Fish-Dragon that was blocking the way. However, Sonya immediately took advantage of the situation, so Felixs Killing Intent Sword ended up in her hands, leading to their first official encounter over interests.


    Felix, having experienced death, did not seek help from his Family to hide his level of arcane energy, but after so many days, his Soul had naturally recovered.


    Thats why Felix was so bold tonight to reveal his trump card in the battle against Sonyaif he lost, so be it, but if he won, there would be a reason to leave victoriously, denying the rustic girl a chance to turn the tables!

 Chapter 174: The Swordswomans Interlude (2)

    Chapter 174: The Swordswomans Interlude (2)


    Hey, congrattions. Sonya sounded somewhat downhearted. I still havent fully recovered


    Sonya did not hide the fact that she had died in the Virtual Realm; instead, she spread the news widely. With the help of Professor Trozan, the entire school learned that the Genius known as the Red-haired Swordswoman had finally met her match in the Virtual Realm.


    After some strategic public rtions, the students perception of Sonya softened. Even Professor Trozan, who had been envious of her talents, took greater care of her. Whenever Sonya went to the cafeteria, the auntie would even give her an extra couple of scoops.


    Her failure did not tarnish Sonyas talents; instead, it made her more approachable and personable.


    Like the impoverished but beautiful college student, the Genius who asionally fails was also a rather effectivebel. Sonya decided to seize this rare opportunity to deepen this persona. This way, she wouldnt have to carry the weight of everyones expectations, yet she could still ess the resources reserved for a Genius, effectively Winning.


    Looks like Ill just have to go back to the dorm and sleep like everyone else tomorrow night


    Most people choose to sleep, right? Who else would be as excited as you in the middle of the night, itching for a fight? Felix thought to himself, grumbling inwardly, while coldly huffing, Just remember to tell Sylvia not to wait down there and identally run into me again.


    Huh?


    Sonya opened her innocent wide eyes, looking at him with a puzzled face: Sylvia? Do you mean Senior Sister Sylvia? What about her?


    Youre acting as if you really dont know. Felix looked at her with disdain. I wont be going to the Meditation Tower tomorrow night. Ill be entering the Virtual Realm from home instead. Just make sure she stops bothering me.


    I really dont know what youre talking about


    Sonya, try thinking of others for once, Felix sighed. You know how dangerous it is to be close to me. Why dont you advise Sylvia to stay away?


    The rustic girl countered, Do you dislike her?


    Is the opposite of dislike liking? Sonya, I hate the way you deliberately set traps with your words


    So answer me directly, do you like Sylvia?


    I like her, but not in the way youre expecting.


    Feelings can be developed over time, dont you believe in love at first sight?


    Why do you care so much? Felix was getting impatient. What has she promised you? Whatever shes offering, I can match it.


    Sonya replied instantly, She promised to make me the lead in a 9 Moon Shadow Drama!


    Felix was livid, Thats nonsense! Sylvia doesnt have that kind of influence!


    9 Moon specifically refers to 9 PM on Saturdays, the prime time slot for dramas. Only the highest quality dramas with the most funding are qualified to air during this time, often guaranteeing a hit show before the season even starts.


    Bing the lead in a 9 Moon Shadow Drama is like stepping halfway into the realm of top-tier performers!


    A rustic girl like you has no right to be the lead in a hit drama!


    After a moment of staring at each other, Sonya turned her head and covered her mouth, trying to hide herughter. Felix could only smile helplessly and sigh.


    Why does such a shameless rustic girl possess Swordsmanship Talent favored by the Stars, and why did he be friends with such a shameless rustic girl


    Its not just for the reward, Sonya said as she tucked her hair behind her ear and propped her wooden sword in front of her, studying the patterns on the de. Senior Sister Sylvia says that Noble marriages often involve loveless unions for alliances, right?


    Indeed, Felix nodded. Noble marriages are mostly about exchanging benefits.


    Sonya spoke softly, If those without affection can be together, why not those with affection?


    Felix blinked, surprised, and looked at the Red-haired Swordswoman.


    Suddenly, an idea struck him, and he said, Do you have someone you like?


    You


    Sonya instinctively wanted to deny it but stopped herself, looking around before whispering, What are you talking about?


    You werent this sentimental before, Felix raised an eyebrow. Dont forget, although its nothing to be proud of, Ive had my share of romances. If there was a Faction for love, Id at least be Gold Tier. Judging by your reaction, could it be your first love? Who is so unluckyor rather, so fortunateto have caught the eye of the Red-haired Swordswoman?


    You just wanted to curse at me, didnt you! Sonya said through gritted teeth. And I didnt think whatever you want!


    If you really hadnt, your response would be Guess who I like instead of a weak think whatever you want, Felixughed. Hanging around with all you mundane Female Sorcerers, Ive started to follow your train of thought. You seem a bit flustered yourself, Sonya.


    Watching Sonya, who was both embarrassed and angry, Felix was also filled with questions he knew her social circle, which barely included any males; who could she possibly have feelings for?


    Arsenault, who co-anchored with her? But it was rumored that Arsenault would actively run away whenever he saw Sonya on campus


    Senior Lorein? Unlikely


    Me? Not to mention how badly she beat me up, but she also helped Sylvia ambush me, and Im a bona fide Gold Tier in the love Faction, highly attuned; its impossible not to feel when someone has feelings for me


    After much thought, Felix suddenly remembered something: during the night of hosting, Sonya seemed to reconcile with her roommate Lois, and since then, theyve grown increasingly close. Just the day before yesterday, Sonya got drunk with Senior Sister Leoni, and it was Lois who helped her change and bathe


    Could it be


    As Sonya, who had finally calmed down, turned around, she realized Felix was several meters away from her and asked in confusion, Why are you so far away?


    Nothing. Felix stood up and said, My left hand is almost healed. I think Ill go home for a bath and then get some treatment. It was great spending a pleasant evening with you. Lets never see each other again, goodbye


    Since its thest night, Sonya also stood up, then you should give me a ride back to the dormitory You dont want to?


    Does the opposite of not wanting to mean wanting to? Sonya, I hate the way you deliberately set traps with your words


    If youre going to practice Hydrotherapy spirit, might as well add a few more wounds


    I still have to drive, cant afford to injure both hands and feet. Felix surrendered.


    The two left the deserted Training Hall and stepped onto the campus boulevard under the watchful gaze of the Stars.


    Sonya suddenly remembered something and eximed, Ah, I almost forgot, theres something Ive been wanting to ask you for a long time. After all, Felix, youre a Noble young master, so you might know some secrets that the poor dont.


    What is it?


    Do you know about the Four Pirs Cult?


    Felix blinked and subconsciously raised his left hand but then lowered it again.

 Chapter 175: The Swordswomans Interlude (3)

    Chapter 175: The Swordswomans Interlude (3)


    Why are you interested in this organization? Wouldnt the drama club be more suitable for you if youre looking to join a club for fun?


    Sonya watched as Felix settled into the drivers seat. After a moment of thought, she decided to sit in the back,fortably stretching out on the leather sofa and casually replied, I was in the drama clubst semester. It was nothing but a yground for a bunch of middle-tier women to scheme against each other, with the service staff being a group of low-tier men pandering to them. The prize was one or two high-tier men However,st years prize didnt quite appeal to me. I found it boring and quit the drama club.


    So you quit the drama club because it was no longer fun


    You know about the Four Pirs Cult, so you must realize its not some trivial club where boys and girls look for excuses to mingle. Sonya took out a wet wipe and dabbed the sweat off her neck, continuing, Or rather, its much more dangerous than those boring clubs.


    Felix lightly tapped his fingers on the steering wheel. In theory, there shouldnt be any information about the Four Pirs Cult in the Stars Kingdom Would you mind telling me where you heard that name?


    The Sorcerer Handbook in the Virtual Realm.


    If you mind, you can just say so, Felix stated indifferently. Theres no need to provide evidence that cant be disproven. Intelligence from the Sorcerer Handbook has no legal standing and its credibility is highly questionable. Youve seen Legendary Treasure, right?


    Of course, Ive watched the version starring Drose five times! Sonya perked up at the mention. But I really did see it in the Sorcerer Handbook.


    Legendary Treasure is a well-known parable in the Stars Kingdom, repeatedly adapted onto the Holographic Screen. Its story is straightforward: there is a legendary treasure in the Virtual Realm that no one knows the location of. The protagonist, a novice sorcerer on an adventure in the Virtual Realm,es across a glittering Sorcerer Handbook. It describes the proper Ritual Track to obtain the legendary treasure. To perform the Ritual Track, the protagonist needs to delve into the Magical Factions and summon the necessary spirit.


    When the protagonist set up the Ritual Track and initiated the Miracle, the gate to the Legendary Treasure appeared. However, behind the gate wasnt treasure, but countless tentacles and an endless abyss of darkness. The protagonist wanted to resist, but unexpectedly, their spirit willingly surrendered and rushed towards the embrace of the gate to the Legendary Treasure.


    It turned out that the Magical Factions and spirits needed toplete the Ritual Track were just to make the summoner more appetizing. The gate to the Legendary Treasure wasnt particrly powerful, but for every summoner who delved into the Ritual Track, it was the perfect natural predator, turning the summoner into food to be taken at will!


    The story ends with a young sorcerer, fresh to the Virtual Realm, who finally defeats the Sorcerer Projection and is rewarded with a glittering Sorcerer Handbook


    This parable naturally teaches people to work hard and not to expect windfalls. But for sorcerers, theres an additional warning  the intelligence from the Sorcerer Handbook is very dangerous.


    If you only know about this organization from the Sorcerer Handbook, theres no need for such a detailed investigation, right? Since you found me, it means you have already done some research in the library, havent you? I wasnt aware of your strong curiosity, or is it that the Swordsmanship Training assigned by Professor Trozan isnt keeping you busy enough?


    Tch, if you dont want to talk about it, then dont. Just drive me back to the dormitory.


    Doubt is not the same as refusal. I hate your presumptuous way of thinking. Felix stepped on the gas pedal and backed the car out: But I dont know much about the Four Pirs Cult either. After all, as I said, you cant get any information about this organization from any written materials, the Empire has thoroughly destroyed all information.


    I also heard about this Religion asionally when mingling in Noble circles, but its mostly mentioned with a sense of morbid curiosity. From what I understand, the four pirs of the Four Pirs Cult represent four codes of conduct: the Tyrant who rules with violence, the Conspirator who maniptes through schemes, the Compassionate Father who tortures with despair, and the Debauched Prince who indulges in pleasure As you might guess, the only one favored by Nobles is naturally the Debauched Prince, symbolic of hedonism.


    Sonya ced her hands on the front seat and leaned forward to ask, So does the Four Pirs Cult exist within the Stars Kingdom?


    There is no such thing, Felix shook his head. The existence of any Religion is predicated on a need for people to have spiritual sustenance, or the dissatisfaction with reality that leads them to Pray for Redemption from a higher power. The Stars Kingdom is a great nation, devoid of the fertile ground necessary for heretical sects to take root.


    But didnt you just mention that some Nobles pursue excitement by following the Four Pirs Cult?


    Everyone holds beliefs they think are correct at different times in their lives. Naivety is a stage everyone must go through, Nobles included, Felix replied. But what makes Nobles what they are is the glory brought by their titles, shielding them from the follies of youth and the taint of evil.


    Without a title, one cannot be a minister, and without being Noble, one cannot govern a county You must have memorized the Noble Act and know why Nobles possess a status and power above themon people, right?


    Blessing of Stars, Sonya said. It is said that every Noble who is officially ennobled receives a Blessing from the Empress herself, bing wise, valiant, fair, and strict and indeed, this seems to be the case.


    The ss barriers in the Stars Kingdom are very strict. Even if you are a genius Sorcerer, you cannot hold any real power in the empire if youre not a Noble.


    However, the Restriction applies only to Noble status. If you can inherit a Noble title through marriage or perform great deeds that lead the Empress to bestow a title upon you, no matter how you be a member of the Nobility, youve got your ticket to the ruling ss. Whether you can be a key official in the nation is then a matter of personal ability.


    In this era of highly advanced information exchange, even a slightly arrogant remark from Sonya would get her sted over a dozen pages on the Curtain forum by her ssmates. Yet, such tant ss discrimination has not caused any ripples in the Stars Kingdom.


    Even Sonya, who has felt since childhood that society owed her an imperial throne, thinks the Nobility system is very good.


    Because being Noble is truly advantageous.


    Impartial and just, fearless in the face of difficulty, diligent in learning, and exhaustively devotedthis is the publics impression of a Noble. Whether its a flirtatious socialite or a sheltered greenhouse flower whos never seen a mosquito, the moment they inherit a title and be Noble, they transform into mature and steady pirs of society for the Stars Kingdom. They dedicate themselves to the welfare of the masses with integrity and without seeking personal gain or engaging in corruption orziness.


    The reason for all this is the Blessing of Stars.


    The textbook describes the Blessing of Stars in one sentence: It awakens the Nobles sense of duty. Sonya used to think this was just an empty phrase. However, after arriving in Gales and learning about the perfect integration of the Noble system with the bureaucratic system, she realized that the statement was actually true.


    All those details you mentioned are peripheral, the core impact of the Blessing of Stars is singr, Felix nced at the night sky filled with stars and said, It instills in Nobles an absolute loyalty to the Stars.


    Absolute loyalty? Sonya blinked, Brainwashing control?


    Its not exactly brainwashing, Felix pondered and exined. Lets say, Sonya, you value your mother highly, you like making money, and you are willing to contribute to the Stars Kingdom. But if we were to prioritize, your mother would be more important than making money, and making money would be more important than benefiting the Stars Kingdom, right?


    Of course, Sonya paused, Actually, making money isnt much more important than benefiting the Stars Kingdom unless its a lot of money.


    So, in your heart, the highest priority is your mother, followed by making money, and then the Stars Kingdom. The so-called absolute loyalty is just making the concept of benefiting the Stars Kingdom the top priority, nothing more, Felix borated. If it wereplete brainwashing control, the Nobles would have rebelled by now. No one wants to be a puppet, devoid of self.


    The power of the Blessing of Stars lies in the fact that it only elevates the Stars Kingdom as the most important entity to protect, without taking away other emotionalmitments of the Nobles, such as family, lovers, children, or hobbies. If its a legally mandated holiday, those Nobles are almost indistinguishable from ordinary people, and they can enjoy entertainment and social status that are beyond the reach ofmoners.


    Felix nced in the rearview mirror at the rustic girl: Even knowing this secret, if you had the opportunity, would you want to be part of the Nobility?


    After a moment of thought, Sonya replied, I suppose I would.


    Although the Blessing of Stars involves a form of brainwashing, Sonya felt she could ept it if it simply elevated the priority of benefiting the Stars to the highest level. After all, its the nation where she was born and raised, and if possible, Sonya certainly hoped the Stars Kingdom would continue to prosper.


    Its likely that most people would agree, since contributing to the prosperity of the Stars Kingdom is an admirable life goal. The question is akin to If you wish to be a good person, the cost is bing very wealthywho wouldnt want that?


    Thats why theres no presence of the Four Pirs Cult in the Stars Kingdom, Felix continued. Under the just and fair rule of the Nobility, the people live in peace and prosperity, with living standards rising year by year, leaving no foothold for the Four Pirs Cult to influence any social ss.


    You wont find any information on the Four Pirs Cult partly because the Empire destroyed it, and partly because nobody needs the Four Pirs Cult.


    A Religion not needed by the people naturally ends up in the trash heap.


    The sedan stopped on the main road in front of the Dormitory Area, and Felix pressed a button to open the rear car door, saying, Thats about all I know about the Four Pirs Cult. Anything else you want to ask?


    No, Sonya shook her head, I was just curious, thats all.


    I dont care where you heard that name, but as a friend, I advise youdont pursue the Four Pirs Cult any further.


    Why?


    Felix turned around to look Sonya in the eyes.


    Because its a waste of time, he said. Youre a Genius Swordcerer, with no spare time to waste on such trivial matters. It looks like youre not training hard enough; perhaps I need to report to Professor Trozan tomorrow that youre not focusing on your Training


    You seem very arrogant today, Sonya retorted, unphased. Is it because you dont have to duel with me tomorrow? How about I ask the professor to check your progress in the morning? I can fight you with a newspaper


    Youre so annoying! I cant stand you!


    Laughing, Sonya hopped out of the car and approached the window, saying, Thanks, see you tomorrow.


    Watching Sonya bounce into the girls dormitory building, Felix let out a long sigh of relief, feeling that another moment chatting with the rustic girl would have made his brain boil.


    Hmm?


    The steering wheel was stained with blood. On closer inspection, she noticed fresh blood seeping through the glove on her left hand.


    Felix had been cut on the palm by Sonya, but had refrained from removing the glove to treat it until the rustic girl was gone. Now that she had left, Felix finally could take the glove off. But instead of immediately attending to the wound, she held her left hand up to her eyes.


    In the palm of her left hand was a perfectly round hole, justrge enough to fit an eye.


    Her already-striking pale purple eyes gained a kaleidoscopic luster when viewed through the circr hole.


    Through this round aperture, Felix gazed at Sonya entering the dormitory building in the distance.


    Who has been talking to her about the Four Pirs Cult? he murmured quietly. I hate these kinds of unpredictable factors.

 Chapter 176: Has the World Been Destroyed?

    Chapter 176: Has the World Been Destroyed?


    The sky had turned into a sea of fire, the earth brimmed with murky darkness. Massive fragments tore through the burning clouds one after another, plummeting toward the taintednd. Every minute, every second, the world twisted and crumbled.


    In this apocalyptic scene, a mysterious figure in a dark red gradient overcoat stood on a cliff, gazing at a meteor shower in the distance. Right hand holding a wine ss, it seemed as if this spectacle was worth celebrating with a drink.


    Who was he?


    What had happened?


    Why had ite to this?


    Suddenly, a red-haired woman emerged from the fiery sky. Dressed in a ck miniskirt, her eyes appeared to encapste a sea of blood, and in her hand, she wielded an exquisitely carved longsword. As she stepped forward, the sky split in two from the sharpness of her swords aura. Merely gazing upon her figure was enough to make ones eyes sting!


    At that moment, the mysterious person seemed to sense the gaze from behind. He slightly turned his head, almost revealing his true face.


    Igor strained to open his non-existent eyes, trying to capture any detail of this enigmatic figure


    Cough, cough, cough!


    Igor abruptly pushed away Ashes hand, wiping his moist lips and cursed, What are you doing?!


    Ashe looked confused, holding up a water bottle, I was giving you water. What, did you think I was trying to drown you by stuffing your head in the toilet? Id like to, but s, the toilet doesnt have a single drop of water. If you dont want it, fine. Harvey, do you?


    I dont want to use the restroom here. Harveys voice was faint. He sat against the wall, his darkplexion unable to hide his feebleness.


    Ashe thought for a moment, then screwed the cap back on the bottle and set it aside, Better save it then, who knows, maybe theyll bring foodter


    It was then that Igor finally had the chance to assess their situation: the three of them were in a small room, about ten square meters, with padded floors and walls. Lighting seeped through gaps in the walls, and in the corner was an all-in-one toilet with a sink.


    The room had no windows. Only in the corner of the ceiling was there a vent from which warm white mist was slowly being expelled, quickly blending into the rooms atmosphere.


    He checked his equipment: the small knife, defensive gun, and multi-tool keychain were all gone. However, his metal headgear was still intactit could be straightened into a metal spike, offering some protection. But its effectiveness was highly situational: it required the enemy to have their guard down and be stripped of any protective gear.


    In essence, it could only be lethal if the enemy was caught off guard while in bed or using the bathroom.


    Igor attempted to stand up to block the vent, but found himselfpletely drained of strength. He couldnt even stand, copsing right in front of Ashe.


    Its an anesthetic healing spray, Ashe saidnguidly. Havent you noticed our speech is weak?


    Your voice always sounds like youre constipated. How could I tell the difference? Igor retorted, lifting his sleeve to discover that the wound from a sniper bullet had begun to scab over. He was mildly surprisedwhile it wasnt as effective as a healers touch, the treatment was significantly better than standard first aid.


    Do you guys know the date and time? he abruptly asked.


    Ashe replied, Its 1 AM on May 2ndweve probably slept for less than an hour. But time zones might differ between kingdoms, so it might not actually be 1 AM outside.


    Igor didnt ask how Ashe knew the time without a chip or a watch. Instead, he pressed his hand against the floor, feeling a slight vibration: Were on a moving vehicle, likely a car, though Ive never seen one with such impressive soundproofing and shock absorption


    He tapped the cor around his neck, Have you guys tested this thing?


    Any attempt to use arcane energy triggers a strong electric shock, Harvey responded indifferently. If you want to test it, I suggest you take off your pants and sit on the toilet. But feel free to test it directly; the padding absorbs well, so any idents you have will clean up quickly.


    Igor gave Harvey and Ashe a quizzical look, Considering youve volunteered this information, I wont ask how you discovered it Got any other intel?


    After a moment of silence, Ashe said, Before losing consciousness, I heard someone say I could only pick up three People from the Exotic Lands This ambush was not meant for Adventurersit was meant for us, and they even knew Ronald and Langna wouldnte.


    A Miracle of the Prophecy Faction or the Destiny Faction, Igor said, unsurprised. What happened to the Werewolf and his prey?


    Ronald died trying to save Langna, Ashe said sinctly. I didnt see what happened after that.


    However, Igor raised his eyebrows slightly and gave a soft Oh, his expressioncking any surprise.


    Suddenly, Ashe had a strong intuition and asked, Did you know beforehand that Ronald would do this?


    To be precise, Im the one who taught him to do it, Igor said with a smile. After all, I did feel some sympathy for him, so I nned to secretly collude with him, thinking wed gang up on Langna after our escape from prison. But he wasnt interested in that; he wanted true revenge, and I just happened to have some information on Langna, so I shared with him the real method of revenge.


    You deceived him?


    I never lie, Igor said. I just fulfill others wishes.


    How funny, is another name for a Con Artist God?


    The Cult Leader and the Con Artist exchanged cold nces, and then the Necromancer suddenly said, Even if Ronald and Langna didnte, why didnt the other Adventurers show up? The Hunting Festival wouldnt stop because of us, on the contrary, the Adventurers should have had an added bounty task to capture us.


    Ashe spread his hands and said, You didnt see what we did to scare the other Adventurers Maybe theyre all huddled in the Warzone now, waiting for Gerard to give them a written guarantee not to capture them before they dare to continue participating in the Hunting Festival. With this dy, if they can work normally by tomorrow night, that would be efficient.


    Or perhaps the Virtual Realm Passage has been blocked, Igor guessed. Since they could predict our arrival with such precision, maybe they were also prepared to block the Virtual Realm Passage.


    Harvey sighed softly and said, Does that mean we cant count on the Adventurers to save us


    At that moment, the three of them were simultaneously struck by a whirlwind ofplex emotionsthey had gone through great lengths to escape the Blood Moon Kingdom, sessfully scaring away Adventurers, deceiving Gerard, and finally crossing the Virtual Realm Passage to arrive in a new world. Yet before they could take a breath of freedom, they were bafflingly captured.


    Ironically, their greatest hope for getting out of this bind was the very pursuers from the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    Igor shook his head, casting aside any budding regrets and resentments, and turned to Ashe, What about your y Me Miracle?


    Ive tried it, Ashe said. But its an external object, akin to a Sorcerer continuously casting spells. The y Me Miracle can clear my negative status at the moment, but as long as Im wearing the Cor, the binding status will be reapplied the next second The Cor must be physically removed.


    I feel like a tool that could electrocute us at any moment might not take too kindly to being forcibly cracked open, Harvey said, tugging slightly at the Cor, which immediately emitted a dangerous red glow.


    Restraining Cors, anti-suicide padded wagons, anesthetic treatment sprays Igor muttered, Its not surprising that we were ambushed and captured, whats surprising is that they have such a professional set of transport equipmentif they didnt prepare this gear especially for us, it means their usual clients also need to stay in such ces.


    Who would need to be transported with this kind of equipment?


    Death row inmates, lunatics, ves? Ashe guessed.


    Corpses could be a possibility too, Harvey said.


    Dont scare me, isnt the standard transport for corpses a Body Bag?


    Ashe, as a Cult Leader, dont you understand? A fresh corpse has its unique value, especially the residual warmth, which is like thest echo of life. Watching a body with warmth gradually turn into a meaningless lump of flesh, that profound sense of witnessingIm sure you can appreciate that, right?


    Who would understand such a thing!


    Listening to the two of them engage in endless banter, Igor, in a poor mental state, subconsciously wanted to interrupt them, but he quickly realized that something was offtheirplexions were as bad as a made-up Orc dancers, neither fully awake nor able to sleep.


    The anesthetic treatment spray, in addition to causing them to be weak and anesthetized, seemed to also have an anti-sleep effect, suppressing their physiological state as much as possible while keeping them in a state of insomnia.


    Compared to direct hypnosis, this state of tired wakefulness is more suitable for dealing with Sorcerer prisoners. It can exhaust the Sorcerers Mental Power, and over time, even prevent them from maintaining normal cognitive abilities. If an Interrogation is needed, prisoners in this state are more likely to divulge information. Igor had learned this from reading Mind Faction literature on Interrogation.


    Ashe and Harvey might not understand this principle, but upon realizing they could not sleep, they subconsciously engaged in intense conversation to keep their minds active and maintain their condition as much as possible.


    Igor quickly gathered his thoughts and carefully considered their current situation.


    Actually, their circumstances were not too bad. After all, if they had been ambushed by an army from another Kingdom, they would now either be forced to have their memories extracted or be the kind of warm Corpse that Harvey favoredthe point was not that Igor judged other Kingdoms by the standards of the Blood Moon, but rather that the principle the heart of a stranger is different from ours was amon understanding.


    Although they did not know who had used a Prophecy Miracle to urately predict their appearance, it at least proved they were of value, perhaps as research material or as ves. In any case, there was hope for survival.


    If this Kingdom also favored civilization over barbarism, where societal rules could bind the powerful, then Igor even had confidence that he could achieve something here. For a Mind Sorcerer, rules and human nature are the strongest weapons.


    Thinking of the Prophecy Faction, Igor involuntarily recalled his recent dream. It was the result of a Revtion spirit acting in his dreams, a rare phenomenon that Igor could not fathom.


    He had also triggered dreams of Revtion before, but most were meaningless images.


    The only time it proved effective was after first encountering Emma in the Revtion of Gamble, when Igor suddenly dreamed of Shattered Lake Prison. He didnt pay much attention to this Revtion at the time, but looking back, it might have been a harbinger of his imprisonment.


    But the images in the dream were too exaggerated Had the worlde to an end?


    Igor wasnt questioning the end of the world scenario itself; he was questioning his own credibilitya blind man from the Prophecy Faction who hadnt even reached the Silver Realm, how could he be privy to such a distant and grand future?


    Even the legendary Prophet with quadruple wings might not be able to predict the fate of the world, right?


    And who was that mysterious person observing the worlds end?


    Perhaps the Revtion spirit had also inhaled the anesthetic spray and was showing him scenes from the past


    Meanwhile, Ashe and Harveys idle chatter came to a halt. Although they wanted tobat their gloomy mental state, it seemed like the secretion of dopamine had been suppressed. The more they talked, the more exhausted they felt, and they just wanted to stop talking.


    No, they needed to find something stimting to do.


    As Ashe thought this to himself, the familiar game interface appeared before his eyes, with the current time disyed in the top right corner.


    Time for a card draw.

 Chapter 177: Bride Swordswoman

    Chapter 177: Bride Swordswoman


    Ashe had actually acquired ample funds for a card drawst night during his Robin Hood act at Sylins, but the situation was too perilous, and he had to prepare for a quick escape at any moment, which left no room for card draws.


    Now, Ashe no longer had to worry about his safety because he was already in danger.


    It was the perfect time for a card draw.


    First, he checked in to receive the days Source Crystal bonus, then he essed Material Procurement. Ashe had 232 points, enough to buy a Bag of Source Crystals worth 198 points.


    Purchase sessful!


    He gained 40 Source Crystals!


    Then, the first-time purchase bonus triggered, and he got another 40 Source Crystals!


    With an umted 15 Source Crystals, Ashe now had a total of 95 Source Crystals, enough for 31 consecutive draws!


    When Ashe opened Operator Search, he noticed a new change on the interface.


    Swords and Dragons Dance Limited Search (Pleaseunch this event as soon as possible after three weeks if the expected monthly revenue target is not met)


    Increased probability to obtain Limited Operators ck-and-White Witch and Enchanting Maiden


    Increased probability to obtain Limited Costumes Bride Swordswoman, Blood-Sea Return Swordswoman, Doomsday Afternoon Observer, Swimsuit Observer


    Ends at 00:00 on May 15th


    Ashe was stunned by the numerous issues. He knew hispany was ruthless, but he hadnt anticipated this level of shamelessnesunching a Limited Search to lure yers into pay-to-win schemes because the monthly revenue might not meet the target was downright disgraceful!


    And thatment in the parentheses was clearly meant for thepanys leadership; someone had forgotten to delete it.


    The so-called Limited Search meant that the mentioned costumes and operators could only be drawn from this events card pool. Once the event was over, yers would have no chance to draw the above rewards from the public card pool unless the event was rerun in the future.


    Therefore, yers with even a hint of a collectors instinct will spend as much as possible in the Card Pool to acquire key rewards. If a Limited Operator is particrly powerful, even those who usually dont spend money might painfully delve into Pay-to-Win; and for those who aim forplete collection, the Pay-to-Win can be relentless until theyve drawn every item from the Card Pool.


    Limited Events are typicallyunched during anniversary celebrations or New Year festivities, when people are more likely to have disposable ie and might get carried away with Pay-to-Win. Additionally, the festive atmosphere means yers are less concerned about the distasteful nature of Limited Events.


    But overall, Limited Events can almost be equated with forcing you to spend money and are far from being considered benefits. Tounch a Limited Event less than a month after the games release and describe it as unsightly would be an understatement.


    However


    Ashe tapped on the Bride Swordswoman in the event description and nothing popped up. Although there was an event description in the interface, there wasnt even a thumbnail imageno new Operator information, let alone a new Costume Portrait, just a text-based lure to spend money on Pay-to-Win.


    It was clear that the game system was functioning but not fully normaleverything seemed secondary to Pay-to-Win.


    Despite grumbling internally, Ashe didnt hesitate to spend all his Source Crystal reserves in this Limited Card Pool.


    It had nothing to do with the Bride Swordswoman; he simply wanted to draw new Operators.


    Wait, there was a Ritual to perform before drawing cards


    Ashe went to wash his hands, then crawled over to Igor: Rock-paper-scissors.


    Interrupted from his thoughts, Igors face went from nk to unsightly to resigned, his expressions managing to be quite the spectacle.


    Eventually, Igor extended his hand in defeat and quickly won two out of three rounds against Ashe, promptly telling Ashe to get lost with disdain.


    Ashe crawled back andy down, ready to draw cards!


    Confirm the use of 93 Source Crystals for 31 Searches?


    Confirm!


    Out of 18 beams of white light, all were Energy Potions, Experience Potions, Primary Combat Cards, and other suchmon items that polluted the Card Pool. He would refine these potionster with the Refining Bottle.


    Nine beams of purple light contained three Joy Potions, three bottles of Pure Radiance Special Drink, one Intermediate Trial Card, a new Item Aurora Autonomous Car (Deluxe Edition), and a new Item Training Gloves.


    And then, four beams of golden light!


    ck-and-White Witch!


    Swimsuit Observer!


    Doomsday Afternoon Observer!


    Debauched Princes D20!


    Snap!


    Suddenly, a noise echoed through the room, Harvey and Igor looked over to find Ashe relentlessly banging the back of his head against the padded wall.


    Harvey, seemingly thoughtful, nodded and began to imitate Ashe by also banging his head against the padding.


    It felt surprisingly effective and indeed seemed to invigorate them.


    Igor, however, suddenly felt thatpared to the drowsiness that gued him, being in thepany of these two with intelligence on par with that of adult Orcs seemed more detrimental to his well-being.


    After venting his frustration on the padding, Ashes gaze returned to the game interface. People can be strange sometimes; even when its not their fault, they might instinctively punish themselvesalmost as if they want to use a purer form of pain to fight against the onught of Destiny, just like


    But when Ashe saw the Swimsuit Observer, he felt like banging his head all over again.


    Whats going wrong here? Not a single Costume for the Swordswoman, yet all the Observers Costumese out?! If I wanted to see the Observers Costumes, I could just buy them myself. And its not just Costumes; I could even go for drag, plus I get to see the Observers bathing CG for free every daybut who wants to watch that?!


    They must have secretly tweaked the drop rates, making it impossible to get the Bride Swordswoman!


    Its just like mypany to have such an unseemly approach!


    No wonder they pay us so well; its all from these shady practices. Disgusting!


    When Ashe shifted from employee to yer, he felt an overwhelming urge to write a lengthy post condemning his ownpanys Seven Deadly Sins, but s, it would be futile. After grumbling for a while, Ashe finally calmed down and inspected the newly acquired Operator Items:


    Training Gloves: When equipped by an Operator, the experience gained from fist and w training is increased by 15%.


    Intermediate Trial Card: Provides an Operator with a trial to gain a moderate amount of experience and a slight increase in Bond. Each Operator can use this only once per week.


    Aurora Autonomous Car (Deluxe Edition): A vehicle for use on thends of the Virtual Realm, capable of being outfitted with various functional essories. Current essories installed: none.


    Pure Radiance Special Drink: Every wise Soul, upon dissolution, releases a bit of pure arcane energy. Consuming Pure Radiance can greatly elerate the recovery speed of the Soul and increase the absorption rate of arcane energy by 5% in the Virtual Realm for seven days. What kind of person, what kind of ce, could so easily collect a bottle of Pure Radiance Special Drink?


    As for the gloves, needless to say, Ashe hasnt drawn a Trial Card in a long time and didnt expect to pull an Intermediate one this time.


    The Pure Radiance Special Drink brought joy to Ashes heart; if the Swordswomans calctions were correct, their Soul injuries might need two more weeks forplete recovery, but with this drink, recovery could possibly be shortened to just a couple of days.


    Its thest sentence in the effect description that gives Ashe an odd feeling, as if this bottle of drink is some viins ill-gotten gains. But since its not explicitly stated, Ashe decides to turn a blind eye; nows not the time to be squeamish.


    As for the Aurora Autonomous Car, its undoubtedly meant for traversing the Time Continent.


    After all, the Boat is only for the Sea of Knowledge, and Ashe was worried theyd have to travel on foot after their stealthy arrival on the Time Continent. Now with this mode of transportation, escaping can be one step ahead.


    And as for the Deluxe Edition that currently only offers mobility without any functional essories, its really more of a Beggars Edition!


    Unlike the Boat, the car itself is arge steel apparatus with potential lethality. Ashe spectes that in the future, he might be able to draw armaments for the car, such as machine guns, rocketunchers, bulletproof ss, vehicle-mounted chainsaws, and even skill cards for the car that enable the use of shy abilities like Whirlwind Charge Tornado


    And then theres the new Operator, ck-and-White Witch!

 Chapter 178: The Worthless Ashe

    Chapter 178: The Worthless Ashe


    ck-and-White Witch


    Human Female, 19 years old


    Bond Level: 0 (30% Experience Sharing)


    upation: Daughter of the Tower


    upational Traits: In the Tower, learning efficiency +15%


    Inherent Talent: Witch (Intermediate): Gain an additional 150% time experience, with a low chance of gaining 10,000% time experience, and more likely to gain favor with the Bronze Dragon (unlock higher talent levels with increased strength).


    Personal Skill: Personality Fission: The ck-and-White Witch can actively adjust her personality to adapt to different environments, and can even switch to specificbat personalities when facing different enemies. Insight +10, Vital Point Judgment +10, critical hit rate increases with the duration of battle.


    Silver Blessing: Witchs Taboo: Secrecy empowers you, concealment is your weapon. The less people know your true inner self in reality, the stronger you be in the Virtual Realm. Currently, the ck-and-White Witchs concealment is at 93% (unknown to all), granting a 93% bonus to arcane energy recovery rate. (Observers observation is not included)


    Items: None


    Controlling Spirits: Mask, Hydrotherapy, ws


    Mind Faction: Silver Rank


    Fist and w Faction: Gold Tier


    Time Faction: Silver Rank


    Water Faction: Silver Rank


    Cultivation Strategy: Not set


    A Gold Tier in Faction Realm, and with a Silver Blessing, shes a Two Wings Operator!


    Ashe fell into deep thought: Is it because he himself is a Two Wings Operator that the new Operator he drew is also Two Wings? Or is the card draw random, and with good luck, one could even draw a Quadruple Wings Operator?


    The ck-and-White Witch has Hydrotherapy spirits and a Silver Rank Water Faction, making her almost a half-healer. However, she majors in the Fist and w Faction and also cultivates in the Time Faction. Despite appearing quite impressive, Ashe couldnt determine her precise role; it would still be best to assign tactical positions in team battles within the Virtual Realm.


    Of course, if the ck-and-White Witch could stop time, then Ashes tactical position would be as her Thigh essory


    1


    .


    Speaking of thighs, Ashe nced at the Portrait of the ck-and-White Witch. Her Costume featured a ck and white chessboard-patterned skirt with one leg in white stockings and the other in ck. Ashe couldnt help but hiss


    Perhaps the Death Maniac Swordswoman could take a lesson or two.


    Despite his reluctance, Ashe checked out the new Costume he had acquired, and to his surprise, there was an unexpected joy:


    Swimsuit  Observer: Gain +10% enhanced effects from the Water Faction (limited to the Virtual Realm, but wearing the same garments in reality also grants the enhancement).


    Doomsday Afternoon  Observer: Gain +3% attack power when unharmed.


    Costumes can actually boost attributes!


    Although the boost was small, it was better than nothing. If possible, Ashe would have loved to give the Swimsuit to the Swordswoman, but it was not exchangeable.


    Even though the Swimsuit offered more of a boost and the new Operator also had affinity with the Water Faction, Ashe equipped himself with Doomsday Afternoon instead. After all, the Swimsuit was too embarrassing, and Ashes self-esteem, which thepany had whittled away sustainably over the years, was just barely intact; he couldnt waste it on something like this.


    Moreover, as long as he customized identical garments in reality, he could trigger the enhancements. No matter how he thought about it, the Swimsuit simply couldnt be regr attire. Ashe didnt want to bear the negative buff of very likely to be considered a pervert by others just for a slight boost.


    Compared to the Swimsuit, Doomsday Afternoon was much more normal, appearing as a dark red gradient overcoat that should be easy to obtain.


    After getting a bottle of Pure Radiance Special Drink for himself and the Death Maniac Swordswoman, Ashe noticed that the apocalypse observer in the Portrait immediately drank it, while the Portrait of the Death Maniac Swordswoman showed a zzz sleep icon, indicating that the action of consuming the Potion had to be dyed for five hours.


    Lastly, there was the special golden Item never seen before.


    Debauched Princes D20: A die for Entertainment, hand-carved by the Debauched Prince himself. When used during Entertainment, it allows the Operator to receive a gift from the Debauched Prince.


    When Entertainment is arranged in the Operators Cultivation Strategy, the D20 can be rolled at the end of each Entertainment session. Depending on factors like the type of Entertainment, the number rolled on the die, the Operators mood, etc., Operators can gain anywhere from 0% to 200% Magic Debauched Experience (100% experience = 1 professional Training session).


    Magic Debauched Experience is not subject to any reductions, only additional bonuses.


    Ashe understood immediatelythis Item made the previously impractical Entertainment option in the Cultivation Strategy more useful. Before, Entertainment only increased trivial stats like an Operators mood, but now there was a chance to earn significant Magic experience through Entertainment, effectively allowing Operators to grow stronger while ying games and reducing the experience loss that came with Entertainment.


    In simple terms, it was a useless Item.


    After all, Ashe wouldnt schedule Entertainment for his Operators, even with this new Item.


    A quick calction revealed that Entertainment cost two Action Points and could yield a maximum of 200% experience; however, Training cost one Action Point and guaranteed 100% experience. Mathematically, the return on two Training sessions was definitely better than one Entertainment session!


    As for the mood boost from Entertainment Although the Swordswoman oftenined, under Ashes era-leading motivational speeches, she had gradually adapted to the high-intensity Training, which showed that human adaptability is quite strong, and theres still potential to be tapped into her initiative.


    Ashe judged based on his own experience; when he first started his job, he went straight into a 997


    2


    schedule, where touching fish was synonymous with Resting, and yet he survived, even managing to get ahead with promotions and sry increases, proving that Entertainment was unnecessary.


    The harder the struggle, the more luxurious Ashes lifestyle becamedriving a Land Rover!


    The harder the Operators work, the more luxurious the yers lifestyledriving a Ferrari!


    The harder you haul bricks, the more the Observer looks for affairs!


    To the Swordswoman and the Witch, keep it up!


    However, the name of the Item surprisingly included Debauched Prince, and if Ashe remembered correctly, wasnt the Debauched Prince one of the incarnations of the Four Pirs?


    This thought circled in his mind and then dissipated into thin airno matter if youre the king of heaven or the Debauched Prince, once its in my hands, its mine, and whatever I eat is nourishment!


    Then, regarding the ck-and-White Witchs Cultivation Strategy Ashe paused here, remembering that the Swordswomans weekly Cultivation would also end tomorrow.


    He thought about it and decided to formte the ck-and-White Witchs Cultivation Strategy tomorrow, syncing both Operators Cultivation cycles so that the weekly reports could be delivered together.


    Its not exactly OCD, but synchronizing the cultivation cycles of all Operators does feel much morefortableokay, its a mild case of OCD.


    Then theres the Intermediate Trial Card


    Actually, the moderate amount of experience provided by the Trial Card is barely significant for both Two Wings Operators. What Ashe values more is the slight increase in Operator Bond.


    The Swordswoman already has a Level 3 Bond with him, while the ck-and-White Witch is at Level 0.


    For the Swordswoman, the Bond provided by the Trial Card is equivalent to Ashe taking her out for a meal and a stroll down the street, at most maintaining their current rtionship, far from enough to upgrade their Bond. But for the ck-and-White Witch, the Trial Card is like Ashe introducing himself, breaking the ice, sharing a bit about family backgroundsit might not upgrade the Bond right away, but after a few more encounters, they will be more familiar with each other, making it a very cost-effective choice.


    So Ashe decides to use the Intermediate Trial Card on the ck-and-White Witch.


    Just as he closes the game interface, Ashe feels as if a membrane in his mind has burst, and the drowsiness that had been teasing him without advancing suddenly takes him by force. Ashe quickly copses into a pile of mush and falls asleep.


    After about thirty seconds, the car door slides open.


    A young man dressed in a dark blue Butlers uniform enters the car. With his light blue hair and a blue gradient cloak, bright eyes, white teeth, and tender white cheeks, he looks no older than thirteen or fourteen.


    He turns the sleeping Igor over, touches Igors forehead with his left hand, and a book materializes in his right. Flipping through it, he says, Second ce in the Two Wings Mind Ranking  Azura Sub-Ranking, fifth in the Azura Beauty Ranking, the name is Igor Bukin.


    Ah~ so that means Mildred, the social butterfly, has been squeezed out of the Beauty Ranking? someone outside chuckles lightly. Great, finally one less person to bring down my style. Since hes in the top ranks of both minor rankings lets tentatively ssify him as a three-star character.


    The young man nods, moves over to touch Harveys forehead, and says, First ce in the Two Wings Necromancy Ranking  Azura Sub-Ranking, the name is Archibald Harvey.


    First in a minor ranking like the Necromancy Ranking? But still, its first ce also tentatively a three-star then.


    The young man goes over to Ashe, touches his forehead for quite a while.


    The person outside asked curiously, Whats the matter?


    It seems hes not on any Ranking List.


    Not on any list? He seems to be a Two Wings Sorcerer, right? Not on the Comprehensive Sorcerer Ranking, Murder Ranking, Creation Ranking, Faction Rankingnone of the minor lists?


    No, none.


    Hmm then lets just ssify him as a zero-star waste.


    Footnote:<ol start="1"><li>


    Thigh essory():


    A thigh essory refers to a person who clings to someone with powerful abilities or influence. Derived from the phrase to hug the thigh, a thigh essory is like an ornament that clings to the leg, symbolizing someone whotches onto a powerful ally and is unwilling to let go. Here, thigh metaphorically represents a strong and capable teammate or partner.</li></ol><ol start="2"><li>


    997:


    997 refers to the work schedule practiced by somepanies in China, especially in the inte industry, where the work pace is extremely fast. The working hours are from 9 am to 9 pm, 7 days a week.</li></ol>

 Chapter 179: Lise Deya

    Chapter 179: Lise Deya


    While Ashe was being written off as irredeemable kitchen waste, far away in the bustling imperial capital of Nabistin, therey a series of grand and solemn pces. Among them, the most eye-catching was the towering Tower built on a small ind in the middle of Yn Lake. With its white walls and blue roofs, apanied by the singing of orioles and the circling of doves, the structure seemed to belong not to this world but to a fairy tale.


    And so, the brave knight defeated the fire-breathing Evil Dragon and found the beautiful princess in itsir. Together, they returned to the capital and were celebrated by all. The king officiated their wedding, and the knight and princess lived happily ever after, a joyous and congrattory asion.


    Granny, with a smile radiating across her face, closed the picture book as the rooms clock chimed, and a charming cuckoo bird popped out to announce the time.


    Princess, the clock has struck twelve; it is time for you to sleep, Granny said gently as she tugged at the covers, careful as if the mere act of covering the princess could cause harm.


    The princess blinked her lovely pale green eyes, which twinkled like stars with dazzling brilliance. Her skin was as pure white as snow, her lips as red as blood, and she had long, ck hair that cascaded down like a waterfall, fanning out on the pillow.


    Granny Marsha, when will the Evil Dragone to capture me? she asked.


    Granny patted the princesss head with a smile, The brave knights are all outside protecting you, so the Evil Dragon cante and take you away, my dear princess.


    Ah? Wont the Evil Dragon be very disappointed then? the princess said, somewhat forlornly. It wants to capture me so badly, just as I long to see Nina Granny Marsha, when will Ninae to visit me?


    Princess Nina is very busy, but as soon as she has some free time, she will surelye to visit you.


    Granny turned off the bedsidemp and quietly left the room.


    The princessy in bed, her thoughts wandering. She pictured the Evil Dragon in her mind: it would have four beautiful sharp horns, scales that glimmered, and a mouth full of fierce but neatly arranged sharp teeth. Its eyes would be asrge as half-moon mirrors, and I could see my reflection in its pupils


    When the Princess turned over in bed, she was stunned: a Bronze Dragon, exactly as she had imagined, appeared outside the window, gently pping its wings in the air and gazing at her with vertical pupils.


    The Princess threw back the covers and got out of bed, dressed in a pure white cotton nightgown, her bare feet touching the cold marble floor. She walked over to the window and met the gaze of the Bronze Dragon.


    Have youe to take me away?


    The Bronze Dragon remained silent, just quietly watching her.


    But the Princess, as if hearing something, smiled brightly: Alright, Ill go with you.


    Compared to the knights who had always guarded her at the base of the Tower, the Princess felt that the Evil Dragon in front of her was more like the hero who would save hershe would ride on the back of the Evil Dragon, soaring through the skies, looking down upon the magnificent earth and experiencing the thrilling adventures she had longed for.


    She carefully climbed over the window sill, and the barriers that had previously stopped her seemed to vanish in that moment. Sitting on the edge of the window, her two adorable, shiny little feet gently swayed as she opened her arms toward the Bronze Dragon: Thank you, Evil Dragon.


    However, the knights below the Tower were, in fact, watchers.


    The Bronze Dragon did not exist in reality.


    But the Princess really did jump.


    With a piercing whistle cutting through the night, the entire Pce was alerted. The Pce Sorcerers were urgently summoned, and the Tri-wings Sanctuary Sorcerers flew directly to the room at the top of the Tower for a thorough search, but still found nothing.


    Wheres the Princess?


    The Princess is missing!


    Go look for her! Get the Prophet over here! No, use the Gospel to ask for the Princesss location! No matter the cost in Points, use all the Gospels necessary!


    Its no use, the Gospel wont respond!


    How is that possible


    The frustrated trackers soon left the Princesss room, which they had disrupted, extending their search throughout the entire imperial city.


    No one noticed that an uninvited guest had already appeared in the room and had been watching the whole drama unfold from the sidelines.


    He walked to the window, hands resting on the sill, and stretched his head out to survey the magnificent royal city that was lit up below. Layer uponyer of aurora-like Curtains gradually unfolded above the city. Thousands of Hawkeye drones took off from various locations,ser-like Pattern Lines emerged on the ground, and all surveince systems were activated at full capacity. In minutes, every corner of the city had been checked, and all spatial Miracles Purified, all in search of the missing princess.


    It saves me the trouble, he said with a chuckle, resting his chin on his hand. Educating the Swordswoman has cost me quite a bit of time.


    Who are you?


    A petnt voice suddenly came from behind him. The observer turned his head to look at the young girl in a ck dress standing by the bed. She had stunningly beautiful features, skin white as snow, lips red as blood, and long, shiny ck hair.


    Unlike the tranquil and lovely princess who had just jumped, she appeared furious, hands on her hips, puffing up her face as she red at the observer, almost as if she was about to rush up and take a big bite.


    Although I would like to say its nice to meet you for the first time, we have already made eye contact just now, the observer said, spreading his hands. Pleased to meet you, Witch. I am the apocalypse observer, but you can call me observer.


    I am not a Witch! She walked straight up to him, poking his chest with her finger. I am Princess Lise Deya; you can call me Princess Lise or Princess Deya. Ive never had such a strange title as Witch!


    The observer tactically leaned back and asked, So, should I call you Lise or Deya?


    She blinked, Deya.


    But I think Witch sounds nicer, the observer turned back to look at the increasingly bustling imperial capital. So, Witch, how does freedom feel?


    Are you mocking me? Deya grabbed the observers cor and twisted him back around, almost lifting him off his feet. Who exactly are you? How did you manage to break through the barriers to enter the royal city, and even my Tower? Without the help of the Bronze Dragon, I couldnt have possibly left this prison!


    If a legendary Sorcerer could possibly infiltrate this ce, then your ability to see me truly surpasses the realm of mortals, Deya said earnestly. I am not a Soul, not a spirit, nor arcane energy; I am an illusion, a thought, a sentiment Other than Lise, no one should be able to notice my existence, no one in this world should be able to see me.


    How can you see a thought?


    Deya scrutinized the Observers face, shrouded in mist. Are you the Divine Master?


    Im sorry to disappoint you.


    Lifted up by Deya, the Observer showed no irritation, calmly stating, I am not a god, at least not yet. On the contrary, I am here to seek your help.


    Deya cocked her head, What help?


    Be mypanion, ept my arrangements.


    Should I take that as your deration of very?


    I vow to defend your right to free thought to the death.


    Absurd.


    Deya forcefully pushed the Observer out of the window, and pure white radiance began to emanate from her as the center. In an instant, the entire world turned into a vast expanse of whiteness, leaving only Deya standing and the Observer falling.


    The Observers dark red cloak gradually turned gray, and his entire being came to a halt, as if time had frozen around him.


    Though I do not know who you are, nor how you can see me, the fact that you canmunicate with me means you are within my thought, Deya articted each word. Intruding into someone elses Kingdom of thought is a very dangerous thing.


    She sped her hands together: Be shattered into countless pieces by time, Observer!


    As soon as Deya finished speaking, the Observers body shattered like a mirror, breaking smaller and smaller until it turned into a pile of sparkling sand.


    Hmph, is that all there is to it? Just as this thought surfaced in Deyas mind, suddenly, cracking sounds came from all directions!


    Crack!


    Deya looked up, only to find the pure white still world she created cracked like a mirror, fissures spreading everywhere! In each fragment of the world, the Observers blurred figure appeared!


    Everywhere under the heavens, in all directions, endless, omnipresent!


    Not an illusion, not a facade; each one is the real me.


    The voices of the Observers resonated like rolling thunder, the resonance nearly shaking Deyas form: Wee from a second ago, a nanosecond ago, a millionth of a nanosecond ago Instead of using time to kill, you should learn how to use time to not die.


    It seems I cant save the effort after all.


    By the time Deya collected her thoughts, she found herself sitting on the edge of the bed with the Observer still beside the windowsill, as if nothing had happened.


    But Deya knew that in the mental confrontation that had just urred, even within her own Kingdom of thought, she had lost, and utterly so. She couldnt describe the feelingher free thought had been defeated!


    She rolled on the bed and hid behind it to avoid the Observers gaze, asking cautiously like a startled rabbit: Do you, being such an entity, truly need my help?


    You seem to overestimate me a bit, the Observer said with a smile: I am also just a distant longing. Without some special methods, I couldnt even see you. My actual presence has just set foot on the Time Continent, without a single Gold feather, weaker than you. With your help, exploring the Virtual Realm will be much easier.


    How could that be Deya didnt believe for a second that the Observer only had Two Wings, but she quickly caught on to the key phrase he mentioned: Exploring the Virtual Realm?


    Yes, you will join my team for Exploring the Virtual Realm, and together we will make a ssh across the Time Continent. The Observer nodded: But dont expect me to provide any information. As for the Virtual Realm and the Time Continent, you have a deeper understanding than I.


    Exploring the Virtual Realm together? Deya instinctively wanted to dismiss such a fanciful idea, but on second thought, it seemed more ordinarypared to the Observers ability to see her.


    The main point was, the Observer had no reason to deceive her, a mere Two Wings Sorcerer, even if she was favored by the Bronze Dragon.


    However, if the Observers strength really was less than hers, that meant


    Thats right, the Observer suddenly recalled something and said: I also have apanion who is a Swordcerer. Together, we have traversed the Sea of Knowledge, defeating many enemies.


    Deya pushed aside the bold thoughts that sprang to mind. Do I have the right to refuse?


    I also have apanion who is a Swordcerer. Together weve sailed the Sea of Knowledge, ying many enemies, the Observer repeated with a smile.


    Frustrated, she pointed at the Observer and eximed, Youre threatening me!


    I prefer to think of it as temptation, the Observer tilted his head slightly: But I swear to defend your right to free imagination to the death.


    Deya seemed about to say more when suddenly her expression changed, and she vanished in a blur.


    Not even a goodbye, such an impolite Princess, the Observer lounged in the chair at the vanity: So what if the Cultists have captured her? Why the panic? She should have known that the favor of the Bronze Dragon isnt so easily borne.


    Compared to you, shes really quite mischievous.


    The Swordswoman sat at the edge of the windowsill, her long legs in ck stockings swinging gently in the air, her expression tinged with worry: But shes too mischievous, Im more concerned about whether Ashe can handle her.


    Dont worry.


    The Observer said with a yful smile, Isnt there Sonya?

 Chapter 180: The Four Pillars Cult!

    Chapter 180: The Four Pirs Cult!


    As Ashe woke up, he saw Harvey and Igor eating sandwiches.


    Arent you afraid theyre poisoned?


    Then Ill just take


    What I mean is, you should have woken me up to test them for poison. Ashe quickly grabbed thest sandwich and licked it to im ownership, eliciting a look of disgust from Igor.


    How long did we sleep?


    Ashe checked the game interface, Its 2 a.m. now; we slept for less than an hour.


    Igor murmured, That means well have to stay here the whole day


    Why?


    If there were only a 6-hour drive left, there would be no need to provide food. Were injured and sleep-deprived. If we stopped eating for another day, theres a risk of sudden death, so they made sure to provide us with food.


    The sandwiches were far from filling and only made Ashe hungrier. He knocked on the padded wall, morosely saying, Does this mean were going back to Prison? Im starting to doubt if the title of the Sorcerer Handbook will be The Masses Prison Review after I die


    Going to Prison would be a good oue, Igor said solemnly. What Im really afraid of is if they have a ve society, where Sorcerers are the ve masters, and allmon people are ves to Sorcerers. Coupled with the technological system of Sorcerers, they could force a ve society into a modern developed Kingdom


    Harvey inquired, Isnt being a ve better than being a Prisoner?


    Not at all. The biggest problem with a ve society is that its ruled by men, notws. When a Conflict arises, the first thought of ve owners isnt to solve the problem but to eliminate the person causing it. They have a penchant for violence, ce extreme importance on blood rtions, are very exclusionary and discriminatory against outsiders, and everyones social status is assigned from the day they are born with absolutely no ss mobility. Igor spoke with aversion, Even some feudal superstitions are better than a ve system.


    Harvey chuckled, Then it seems weve fled from the Blood Moon Kingdom to an even worse Kingdom. Sigh, when I think about it, the Blood Moon Kingdom wasnt that bad. If the Church had allowedmoners to study Necromancy, I probably wouldnt have bothered to run away. Sadly, I didnt have the chance to go to school initially, andter couldnt get into graduate school to be part of the sacred bloodline, which meant I had no right to learn Necromancy


    Its not necessarily a ve society, Ashe suggested, his tongue flicking out to lick the water inside the bottle. Maybe this is a Civilized Kingdom thats even more advanced than the Blood Moon Kingdom and doesnt view refugees from other countries as enemies


    What Civilized Kingdom produces professional prison wagons like this? Igor patted the padded rear wall. Harvey, if you were to transport someone youve captured, how would you do it?


    Why are you asking me?


    Dont you know?


    Well, I do know Harvey mumbled. I have a friend, really just a friend. If it were me, Id turn the person into a Corpse and have them run back on their own But that friend usually uses drugs and an Auxiliary Spirit to hypnotize the target into unconsciousness, ties them up, and throws them into a van to transport them.


    Would there be apany in the Blood Moon that makes these kinds of carriages?


    Impossible. The closest thing might be a camper, but the business of binding people is considered a lower-value sector in our society; theres no way they would custom-build carriages for such a minor business.


    Igor looked at Ashe. So, Cult Leader, do you understand? Anyone who has these kinds of carriages is likely a special upation, mainly involved in capturing peopleprobably a ve Catcher Squad. If theres a ve Catcher Squad, then it naturally follows that theres a system of very


    Wait a minute, Ashe raised his hand to ask. Couldnt it be human traffickers?


    A sex ve is still a type of ve


    It could also be traffickers who abduct children.


    Child trafficking? Both Igor and Harvey looked puzzled. Why would someone kidnap children? Who would buy them? And what for?


    Ashe suddenly remembered that even families had dissolved in the Blood Moon Kingdomwithout buyers, there naturally wouldnt be any traffickers. He took some effort to describe this vile industry to Igor and Harvey, but they still couldnt grasp the conceptmuch like trying to exin the exhration of fitness to someone who never exercises.


    Even though they had escaped the Blood Moon Kingdom, its culture was deeply ingrained in their souls. They struggled to understand why some people would go to such lengths to have descendants, even if it meant taking someone elses, to the point of fostering a sinister industry. In their worldview, descendants might be closer than strangers, but they were still others, not self.


    In a sense, the Blood Moon didnt deliberately erase their emotions; it just perfected one of their correct thought patterns to the extremewhen selfishness became their highest principle, the emotional effort required became iprehensible.


    This was also why Ashe remained wary of them. It wasnt just because they were death row inmates, but also because the education of the Blood Moon had lowered their moral standards so significantly that they could bepared to a project manager whod call Ashe at three in the morning to rush a PowerPoint presentation.


    Humans are creatures with great limitations, unable toprehend things theyve never seen. Only by witnessing enough of everything can one grasp all the truths of the world. Without sufficient experience, even a gemstone in front of someone might be mistaken for a mere rock. Thus, to obtain the gemstone, one must first witness the rise and fall of all things


    A strange idea popped into Ashes mind. He shook his head to suppress the sudden flight of fancy and said, Even if it really is a ve Catcher Squad, at least our lives would be safe. Plus, being ves could help us quickly understand this world. If ites down to it, we could always be Prison Escapees. We are, after all, professionals at escaping.


    Igor looked at Ashe with a hint of surprise and was silent for a while. Ashe felt uneasy under his gaze, Whats up?


    Ive had this vague feeling since I was in prison, said Igor, Im not sure if its ignorance that breeds fearlessness, or the blind confidence you cultivated as a Cult Leader, but you seem to have never feared the malice of Destiny.


    After all, we barely escaped the Blood Moon, only to be captured again. Even I cant help but want to curse at the world, yet you, like a fish with only a seven-second memory, immediately start thinking about how to utilize being a ve.


    Do you have some kind of ace up your sleeve?


    An ace? Does the ck-and-White Witch I just drew count?


    Ashe scratched his head: Isnt this just normal mental resilience? Like when your boss suddenly gives you a new task on your way home from work, demanding it be done by the next morning, you curse inwardly for a bit, then order takeout and work overtime obediently, right?


    Harvey said, I think most people wouldnt equate working overtime with being caught by a ve Catcher Squad Go on.


    Ashe and Igor caught the item Harvey threw to thema Snow White Brand Moon Sugar.


    When we get off the bus, thats when we are most vulnerable and they are mostx, Harvey said calmly. This stuff can force your spirit into a state of high alert, oveing the fatigue of sleeplessness, and even speed up the recovery of arcane energy.


    After leaving the Blood Moon, you wont find Moon Sugar anywhere, Igor mentioned. Physical addiction to sugar can be broken with spirits, but Ive never heard of anyone oveing the psychological craving. In Shattered Lake Prison, many a Death row inmate spent all their contributions just to buy Moon Sugar.


    There should be simr drugs in this Kingdom, Harvey said, patting the padded wall. The more advanced the Kingdom, the more popr the drugs to fill the void. Every Race has a self-destructive tendency; when survival is no longer a pressure, they seek out activities that are more dangerous but also more pleasurable.


    Necromancers peculiar theories, Igor put away the item. Ill take it, I wont use it, but Ill cooperate with you.


    Same here, Ashe was not interested in testing his own resistance to toxins, but after some thought, he still put it in his bagit could be considered for the Substitute, to see the Substitutes reaction.


    Thinking of the Substitute first when theres good food, thats so me.


    After a long journey, at 6 p.m. during the Blood Moon, Igor finally felt the carriagee to a stop. The three exhausted individuals exchanged nces, knowing that the first major challenge was about to begin. Harvey silently consumed a piece of Moon Sugar, instantly revitalizing his spirit and energy.


    The carriage door slid open. Come out, the three of you.


    At that moment, Ashe suddenly realized that he could understand thenguage of this kingdom, although with a strange ent, probably somewhere between Cantonese and Mandarin. With careful listening, it was still intelligible.


    Even within the samenguage, different cities can lead to different ents, so it was normal for them to have one. But they had transmigrated to another kingdom, and yet the basguage was still the same?


    Stepping out of the carriage, they were greeted by a sky half-filled with a setting sun and half with stars, and what looked like an abandoned industrial parka rare sight in the Blood Moon Kingdom, where the Blood Moon always hurried to announce its presence before the sun had set.


    As they had expected, the vehicle that transported them seemed quite advanced, entirely silver-white. Although it still had four wheels, the tires surprisinglycked the Pattern Lines that increase friction for anti-slip purposes; it seemed as if a single brake could lead to a drift of several meters,pletely beyond their understanding of driving, looking more like a concept car from a fantasy.


    This was a kingdom where Sorcerer technology was highly advanced, at least more so than in the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    This was the conclusion all three came to upon seeing the vehicle that represented the pinnacle of industrial production.


    These three are the People from the Exotic Lands you requested. You can check them with the Gospel, said the voice.


    Standing in front of Ashe were two unremarkable individuals: a youthful-looking Butler and a beautiful girl with purple hair and green eyes.


    Thetter was holding a luxurious orange velvet folding fan and dressed in a purple coat. Ashes immediate thought upon seeing her was of a phrase often seen in tabloid news: She outshone everyone!


    Ashe instinctively nced at Igorthe girls beauty was a match for Igors!


    Moreover, because Ashe was more familiar with Igor, theres a saying that the grass is always greener on the other side, so the unfamiliar girls attractiveness gained extra points in Ashes mind, thoroughly surpassing Igor.


    From Ashes ount, these two hardly seemed ordinary. However, inparison to another group, they indeed appeared quitemonsix sinister figures in ck robes were ring ominously at Ashe and hispanions.


    The People from the Exotic Lands are confirmed, the leader of the ck Robe Men nodded. No time to dy; lets proceed with the trade.


    The young Butler stepped forward, presenting three controller-like keys, while the ck Robe Man produced a box. Harvey lowered his eyelids, as if readying for action.


    But they all refrained from any sudden moves until the transaction wasplete.


    This was because the Purple-d Girl was smiling at them the entire time.


    Ashes Beast Intuition was triggered, indicating that the Purple-d Girl was even more of a beast than he was, to the extent that his subconscious began to fear her.


    The Butler handed the box to the Purple-d Girl, who opened it to reveal an octahedral amethyst. The amethyst seemed to have an inner light source, emitting a warm and inviting glow that made the Purple-d Girl look even more dazzling. Her beauty skyrocketed, overwhelming Igor by arge margin.


    The trade isplete, said the Purple-d Girl and the Butler, making way. Now, these three are in the hands of the Four Pirs Cult.


    The Four Pirs Cult?


    The Four Pirs Cult!


    Harvey and Igor instantly turned their heads to stare at Ashe, who was equally stunnedhe had indeed heard the term Four Pirs Cult in his half-asleep state before, but the speaker had a heavy ent, and he was groggy, so he thought he had misheard.


    Before Ashe could gather his wits, the ck Robe Mans sleeves unleashed dozens of chains that tightly bound the trio and stuffed them into prepared Body Bags, tossing them into their vehicle.


    He then turned to the Purple-d Girl and said, Well head back tomence the Ritual. Lets hope for future coborations, Funeral Firm.


    The Purple-d Girl gave a slight nod: Ranked number nine on Azuras Quest Ranking, the Funeral Firm is always ready for yourmission.

 Chapter 181: Eternal Calamity and the Apocalypse Observer

    Chapter 181: Eternal Cmity and the Apocalypse Observer


    O great Eternal Cmity, Selina Bright! Goodness follows you, evil admires you! Light yearns for you, and darkness also hopes for you! You are the being that transcends all, the hue that God has ted onto everything!


    As Ashe crawled out of the Body Bag, he saw countless ck Robe Cultists kneeling on the ground, their foreheads touching the earth, singing praises with fanatic voices. This familiar hymn almost triggered Ashes post-traumatic stress disorder.


    Could it be that this hymn is the unified standard Version across the world?!


    Im seriously starting to wonder if were all in this mess because of you, Ashe Harveysmenting voice came from the side. He soon grunted in pain as a ck Robe Cultist stepped on his left arm, ttening itnot because the cultist was particrly forceful, but because Harveys left arm was missing a bone.


    Last night, when they were ambushed by Gersas, the situation was desperate: Ashe had to halt, Langna and Ronald covered each other, and Igor lost arge chunk of flesh that still hadnt healed. Harvey, however, seemed to have it easy; he threw a bone into the air, and the Shot Bullets aimed at his body, for some reason, veered off towards the bone as if the Necromancer was unaffected.


    But during the lengthy car ride of the past several hours, Ashe had already noticed that Harveys left hand was almostpletely useless, unable to even lift. Now it was clear that Harvey was probably the most severely injured among themafter all, Igor could regrow his flesh, but Harvey couldnt regenerate his own bones.


    It was likely that the Necromancy Faction had some Miracle for bone recovery, but as soon as Harvey transmigrated through the portal, he was fitted with a Cor, leaving him no chance to grow a new bone for his arm. It was like going to the Restroom only to find theres no toilet paper and having to use ones fingers, thening out to realize the waters been shut off.


    The chains of the ck Robe figures entwined around the three of them like tentacles once again, lifting them up. Now, Ashe could finally observe their surroundingsthe all too familiar underground hall!


    In a grand underground hall, twice the size of a ser field with a ceiling stretching up some ten meters high, the space was bright yet ancient under the glow of densely packed hanging fires. The walls were smooth and covered in bizarre, colorful murals that depicted scenes of brutality and debauchery: lines of people waiting for ughter, six pairs of men and women engaged in a twisted,munal mating posture, hundreds spilling their blood to fill a swimming pool, and various Races in states of decay.


    The vibrant colorsbined with the utterly transgressive content should have been enough to shock and offend anyone. However, Ashe merely nced at them without a hint of disgust, nor pleasure, simply considering them as regr pieces of art.


    Dont look, its toxic, Igor whispered softly. Ashe snapped back to realityrealizing that the moment he began to ept these strange aesthetics as normal art, he had been silently corrupted.


    Only Igor, with his genuine set of professional aesthetics, recognized this abnormality. His refined eye for beauty was not something that Harvey and Ashe, with theirck of artistic culturecapable of admiring the shape of their own excrement post-evacuationcouldprehend.


    The chains on the trio were tugged, and the ck Robe Man signaled for them to walk forward. Before Ashe was a narrow stone path over the water. Remarkably, this underground hall had a pond, and on either side of the stone path, there were four statues representing a valiant general, a refined middle-aged Schr, a benevolent elder, and a pure young girl.


    They obediently traversed the stone path. The believers, who had been singing hymns just moments before, suddenly fell silent, kneeling on the ground. Now, only the sound of their footsteps echoed in the hall.


    As they approached the towering Silver Throne, the chains behind them jerked, forcing them to kneel as well.


    Are you the People from the Exotic Lands?


    A charming and naive voice floated from the Silver Throne, which had been facing away from them. The throne smoothly rotated to face them, and upon seeing who was seated upon it, Ashe and hispanions faces registered shock.


    Seated on the Silver Throne was a petite girl who appeared to be no older than ten, her silver-white hair highlighted with a tinge of wine-red, adding depth to the color. She was dressed in an adorable ck dress with white frills, a gothic style that made her resemble a delicate doll.


    However, the girlcked both arms and legs.


    She was like a doll dressed in an outfit yet to have its limbs attached, ced decoratively upon the Silver Throne.


    The Silver Throne was equipped with two mechanical arms extending from it: the right arm held a steaming cup of beverage, and the left arm held a thinic book. She seemed to be enjoying her afternoon tea while reading theic.


    Yes, Eternal Cmity, the ck Robe Man said, kneeling. They have been confirmed as the People from the Exotic Lands through the Gospel.


    Thank you for your hard work, the little girl replied. Then bring the other Sacrifices as well. The ritual is tomence immediately; the Four Pirs are growing impatient!


    Yes!


    A fervent atmosphere quickly swept through the entire underground hall, even the hanging fires burned more fiercely. Ashe and hispanions were tightly bound by chains, unable to break free, watching helplessly as the butcher sharpens his knife for the fish on the chopping board!


    Ashe!


    Ashe


    Harvey and Igor sent strong, clear signals, and Ashes face contorted with frustration, fully aware they saw him as theirst hope for salvation.


    After all, in their eyes, Heath might indeed be the Cult Leader of the Four Pirs Cult, and this ce was also the domain of the Four Pirs. Surely, there couldnt be two sets of Four Pirs Cult?


    It was like mistaking a flood for a dragon kings temple or Moonshadow for a desecrated grave of Blood Saint  not recognizing ones own kin! Shouldnt you, Ashe, hurry up to acknowledge your heritage, return gloriously as a Schr studying abroad to the local branch of the Four Pirs Cult, and then quickly save us? If necessary, well also believe in the Four Pirs Cult andmit some atrocious acts, as long as we survive first.


    But Ashe knew his own circumstances; Heath might be the Cult Leader, but he certainly was not!


    The Four Pirs might recognize him, but he did not recognize the Four Pirs!


    Ashes knowledge of the Four Pirs Cult came solely from news reports; the Sin Hunters Hall knew more about the Four Pirs Cult than he ever did. Ashe had never spent a day as a Cult Leader; he couldnt even pass for a counterfeit one. At best, he could be considered a Cult Leader in spirit.


    Ashe did have thoughts of forging a closer connection with the Cult Leader here, but he didnt understand the doctrines of the Four Pirs Cult, nor did he know any secret signals. Could he really convince the other party he was a fellow Cultist with just his words? Not everyone is as naive as Freya!


    And there was another point. Although Ashe couldnt quite remember the scene when he first transmigrated, he was certain that the Blood Moon division, whether in terms of the number of Followers, the size of the base, or the aura of the Leader, couldnt hold a candle to this branch.


    Even as branches of the same Four Pirs Cult, it was uncertain whether Eternal Cmity would be willing to ept a poor rtive from the countryside. It was possible that the reaction would be more along the lines of, Youre a branch Leader? Then we must treat you seriously, followed by an array of torture devices to show the Four Pirs Cult that they indeed honored a visiting Leader, sending Ashe off properly.


    But to simply wait for death was undoubtedly foolish. So, Ashe summoned his courage and raised his head to say, Um, hello.


    Hello, Eternal Cmity replied politely, looking down at Ashe. Is there something you need?


    Ashe decided to dere his Cult reputation and title: I am the apocalypse observer, Ashe Heath.


    I am Eternal Cmity, Selina Bright, she responded, turning to Igor and Harvey, Do you also wish to introduce yourselves?


    No, what I mean is, I am also a Follower of the Four Pirs Cult, Ashe said carefully. I am the Leader of the Blood Moon Kingdom branch of the Four Pirs Cult. The Blood Moon Kingdom is the Exotic Land wee from.


    Oh, is that so? She seemed a bit surprised, giving Ashe a few nces. But you seem like a nice person.


    Ashes face turned red with frustration  in everyone elses eyes, he was an irredeemable Cult Leader, and no matter how many times he exined, no one believed he was a good person. Yet, when he told a Cult Leader that he was a fellow Cultist, she actually thought he seemed like a good person.


    Jeez, cant the world cut me a break? When a Cult Leader does something bad, hes seen as a Cult Leader, but when a good person does something bad, theyre still seen as good. Even mypanys CEO isnt this hypocritical!


    Ashe tried to speak in a calm tone: No, I really am a Leader of a Four Pirs Cult branch. Im a bad person. Ive been used by the authorities of involvement in multiple kidnapping cases, murder cases, robbery cases, and other serious crimes. I was sentenced to the maximum penalty and only managed to escape from prison. Blood Moon has no ce for me anymore, so I left toe here.


    Eternal Cmity cocked her head, a cute curve forming on her brow: Then prove it to me.


    Prove it?


    A mechanical arm withdrew a dagger from the folds of her skirt and threw it to the ground in front of Ashe. The chains around him suddenly vanished, and although still cored, he could move freely.


    I dont know what they mean to you, but if you are a favored kin of the Four Pirs Cult, then to you, they should be considered suitable Sacrifices to offer to the Four Pirs, Eternal Cmity said calmly. Torture them as much as you can, break them down, fill them with despair, and delight them with pain, but do not kill them.


    This should be as simple for you as getting dressed or eating, right, apocalypse observer?

 Chapter 182: You Are Not an Apocalypse Observer

    Chapter 182: You Are Not an Apocalypse Observer


    Igor stared at the dagger nted in front of Ashe, his parched lips trembling slightly, a long-absent sense of fear gnawing at his heart like a wolf.


    Am I afraid of death? Am I just an ordinary man after all? Am I just an unqualified Con Artist? he pondered.


    Fear is a calm Bewitcher, andposure is the lifeblood of a Con Artist. Whenposure is drained by fear, it signifies the end of a Con Artists life.


    Igor had forgotten when hest felt fear. When he deceitfully obtained his first lollipop from the children in the Nursery, when he preemptively used other children to the director of the Nursery, it was as if he had lost the sensation of fear altogether.


    After diligently studying the Mind Faction, Igor deemed himself a natural antisocial personality. Not being a Con Artist would be a waste of a trip to this world. For him, manipting human nature wasnt just for profit, but survivalhe was someone who could only thrive in darkness, unable to live without deceit and schemes.


    The unique social environment and strategic location of the Blood Moon Kingdom made his upation a breeze. Even being caught by the Sin Hunters Hall was not a cause for fear in Igor; he saw it as vocational training. Although the Prisoners in Shattered Lake Prison were tougher to deceive, it only increased Igors enthusiasm for the challenge.


    Igor had never feared the vagaries of Destiny; he had been in far more perilous situations in the past. Encircled by hitmen from the organization, held at gunpoint, and even threatened with muttion, he had experienced it all, yet he felt no fear in his heart.


    Because the first person a Con Artist deceives is himself.


    If a Con Artist doesnt believe in his own immortality, how can he dare to deceive others? If a Con Artist doesnt believe that his next words can turn the situation around, how can he deceive others?


    So it was iprehensible to Igor why he should feel fear now.


    Clearly, his life was not in danger.


    Clearly, he still had a hold on Ashes wish.


    With just onemand, Ashe would be unable to harm him in the slightest.


    Ashe would probably target Harvey first, Igor thought.


    As for the possibility of Ashe rejecting the invitation, Igor hadnt even considered it  Ashe had no reason not to strike at them, just as a Bewitcher would not refuse an Orc delivered right to her doorstep.


    For this group of Prison Escapees from Shattered Lake Prison, ying each other was a form of greeting; they would create opportunities for betrayal even where none existed, and if given the chance, they would exploit it to the fullest.


    Among them, there was only a pure rtionship of mutual exploitation, with no room for mercy.


    It was strange to think that, after sessfully escaping the prison, they had no conflicts of interest, yet Igor felt a profound vignce towards the others, trusting strangers more than his fellow escapees.


    They were of the same kind, incapable of peaceful coexistence. If they had to act together, it was inevitably punctuated with death.


    Igor had pondered why he harbored Killing Intent towards his fellow escapees.


    To erase the past? The Sin Hunters Hall still held his extensive criminal record.


    To guard secrets? Having left Blood Moon behind, the secrets of Harvey and Igor held no significance.


    To protect himself?


    Yes, that was it  to protect himself. Because Igor realized that, no matter how distrustful or vignt he was, when the time came, he would still choose to cooperate with Harvey and Ashe. And they were familiar with his Battle style; they had be dependents on each other.


    Dependence is the most dangerous de, handed to the one behind you by your own hand.  Ansu Fable Companions Conclusion


    To expose oneself is foolish, to depend on others is shameful, and to havepanions is to enter a countdown to betrayal. If it were another time, another ce, Igor might have been willing to risk getting to know thesepanions, but they were Death row inmates met in prison  would you dare to keeppanions picked from the trash can?


    Igor wouldnt dare, and he knew Harvey and Ashe wouldnt dare either.


    Since they couldnt bepanions, yet were forced into an unspoken alliance ofpanionship, they could only be enemies.


    This was the way of the Blood Moon people in treating others  others were always just that, others, never one of their own.


    As long as you betray others first, you wont be betrayed; such is the selfish Rule.


    So when Igor saw Ashe draw the small knife without hesitation, he felt no surprise. Unexpectedly, Ashe didnt move towards Harvey but turned to look at him instead.


    A thought shed through Igors mind, and he instantly grasped Ashes intentionhe wanted to force Igor to exhaust his wishes, and then deal with Harvey. By doing so, the Con Artist would lose his leverage over the former Cult Leader.


    Its just like you like the detestable enemy who has suppressed me from the beginning to the end


    You truly are the Cult Leader who brings misfortune to others, and I am just one of your many victims.


    All of this was within Igors expectations; he did not feel anger.


    But for some reason, he felt a slight sense of loss.


    Ashe crouched in front of him, lifted his chin, and pressed the dagger against his dust-covered face. Looking at Ashe, a new thought suddenly emerged in Igors mindsince he was going to die anyway, instead of using his wishes to protect hisst shred of dignity before death, why not drag Ashe down with him? Why not be buried together in the Virtual Realm and be phantoms of the past?


    If I cant survive, I need not be concerned with your life or death.


    Or perhaps use a wish to have you kill me, to end my suffering and facilitate your rebirth?


    While Igors emotions were in turmoil, Ashe stopped and looked towards Eternal Cmity, asking, Can you guarantee that youll let me go after I do this?


    If you can truly prove your loyalty to the Four Pirs, Eternal Cmity replied, you will naturally receive the treatment you deserve.


    Youre evading the question with empty words, Ashe said. Since thats the case, lets make it official. I brought a Miracle Contract paper; with the assurance of the Virtual Realm, Ill believe you.


    Eternal Cmity looked at him with a strange smile, as a breeze seemed to stir around the Silver Throne, slightly lifting her skirt.


    Snap!


    Suddenly, a loud noise rang out as the chains of the hovering disk above Ashes head broke. Although Ashe immediately threw the dagger at Eternal Cmity, he was struck hard on the back by the falling disk, convulsing on the ground in pain like a curled shrimp.


    The dagger was deflected by an invisible force, narrowly missing Eternal Cmitys round, cherubic cheek by a hairs breadth.


    A mechanical arm tucked the dagger back into her skirt, and she signaled the ck Robe Man to tie up Ashe with a Miracle, saying leisurely, As I thought, my judgment was correct. You are neither a Follower of the Four Pirs nor an apocalypse observer.


    You are just Ashe Heath.

 Chapter 183: Sacrifice All Cultists!

    Chapter 183: Sacrifice All Cultists!


    Youre just Ashe Heath.


    Why does that name feel like its turned into a curse?


    Name: Ashe Heath. Gender: Ashe Heath. Crimes: Ashe Heath?


    Ashey bound and disheveled on the ground, his back pain flooding in like the tide, so intense he could only whimper and moan, without the slightest intention to rebut the words of Eternal Cmity.


    The Necromancer beside him said with sympathy, So it was true, Ashe, when you said you were wronged. And here I thought it was your signature dry humor. Back then I even thought the Leader of the Four Pirs Cult had a sense of humor.


    I think hes simply foolish. Igormented coldly, Still cant see the situation for what it is, even when your life is in their hands, and you still dare to haggle. Would a lumberjack be wary of a tree just because the axe handle is made of wood?


    You can only try to ingratiate yourself, to be their axe, yet you act like a cockroach trying to jump on a face, as if they should be grateful not to squash you on the spot. Love it or leave it; they dontck forborers like you. Even the little brats in the Nursery know to bow their heads and take the job at a time like this, but youre the only one asking about sry, benefits, and contracts


    Harvey had intended to argue on Ashes behalf, but noticing that Ashe was just sorrowfully ring at Igor, muttering profanities that only he could hear, Harvey wisely kept silent. Ashe was hurt and needed a distraction; Igors taunting was perfectly timed to stir up his emotions, making him forget the pain in his body.


    However, Harvey felt that Igors berating was oddly off the markknowing that if Ashe had really followed through with Eternal Cmitys demand, it would now be him and Igor who were wailing. Why did Igor still speak with a tone of frustrated mockery, as if he wished Ashe to survive stepping over their corpses?


    Oooh


    Let me go, Mom, Dad


    Wah, wah, waaaah! I want my Mommy, Mommy!


    The shrill and noisy voices of children filled the hall, with both Harvey and Igor showing expressions of disgust. It wasnt the Four Pirs Cults treatment of the children that they despised, but rather the childrens morthe Blood Moon people had very low tolerance for the whining of young ones.


    However, after listening for a while, Igor asked in a low voice, Why are they all shouting for mommy and daddy? Are mommy and daddy heroes here?


    Ashe couldnt help but feel a bit amused at the sight of Harvey and Igor, who seemed as illiterate as one could be, asking such a question.


    Although it was also his first time hearing the parental titles of this Kingdom, Ashe knew from the tone who they were calling for. After all, parental titles are usually made up of the mostmon sybles.


    Yes, as long as you call out that phrase, mommy and daddy will give their all for you.


    Harvey became serious, Were not from this Kingdom, would mommy and daddy protect us too?


    Ashe wanted to continue teasing them, but for some reason, he suddenly felt dispirited and did not answer. The crying children were brought around them, also bound by Miracle chains, their cries piercing the air, some sobbing quietly, others wailing loudly. Each one was a delicately carved young child, not taller than a wheel, almost the same size as Eternal Cmity on the Silver Throne.


    Do young children have value as sacrifices? Igor asked softly.


    In the Four Pirs Cult, children symbolize purity. Only those who have not yet been tainted by society can harbor pure evil, pure goodness, pure hatred, pure joy, like wless gems, Ashe recalled Heaths criminal record, his face also turning pale: Theyre not the best sacrifices, but they are the easiest to find.


    Hey, look at that girl, Harvey suddenly said.


    Ashe looked over and saw a very cute and delicate white-haired little girl, thinking to himself that Harvey was finally showing a bit of normalcy, albeit still quite perverse, but at least his attention was on something alive.


    But he quickly understood what Harvey meantthe little white-haired girl was too calm.


    She wasnt crying, nor was she petrified with fear; instead, she was calmly observing her surroundings. Noticing the gaze of the three notorious viins, she blinked her eyes and suddenly put on a pitifully adorable expression that aroused a protective instinct in onlookers, as though she was hoping for a hero to rescue her from danger.


    Drama Queen, Igormented disdainfully. Harvey and Ashe were somewhat let downthey had thought this little girl had some trump card, which was why she was soposed. They hadnt expected her only tactic to be acting cute.


    As they spoke, the ck Robe Cultist made way for arge open area in the center, and the hovering disk above them suddenly roared, releasing four rivers of me that spiraled into concentric circles around the group of Sacrifices. The zing rings of fire isted them from the outside world.


    Ancient and bizarre chants echoed in the underground hall:


    Countless glories, countless incarnations, countless possibilities


    Messenger of snowstorms, the clear azure, suppressing the strange


    Evesting heat, eternal life, forever wandering


    Dream of freedom


    Let this be our sincere prayer, in the hope that the Four Pirs, in their holy mercy, shall bestow their scrutiny.


    After the Followers finished their prayers, the sweet and naive voice of Eternal Cmity slowly resounded: The Sacrifices indicated by the Oracle have been assembled.


    In the name of Selina Bright, we offer to the Four Pirs the Sacrifices within the ring of firethree People from the Exotic Lands, sixteen pure souls!


    It was over.


    Igor sighed inwardly; he hadnt expected to survive escaping from prison, evade the pursuit of the Sin Hunters Hall, only to die in a Cult sacrifice to the Four Pirs.


    Rounded up, it was almost like dying at the hands of Ashe.


    If only I hadnt struck up a conversation with that neer in prison If only I hadnt seen him as prey


    Suddenly, Igorughed, extinguishing the flicker of regret that had surfaced in his hearpared to rotting away in Shattered Lake Prison, he preferred to y a part in the grand spectacle of the Blood Moon Tribunal and the glorious prison escape, and then to die.


    He owed his thanks to Ashe Heath; it was he who had freed him from the tedium of prison life and set him on this brilliant path to death.


    It is said that after evildoers die, their Souls must pass through six hells, enduring torment before they can rest in the Virtual Realm. All the spiteful spirits harmed by the evildoers await this perfect opportunity for revenge, eager to repay the cmities they suffered tenfold, a hundredfold, to the wicked.


    Dear Cult Leader, with your great achievements, there must be many looking forward to ying games with you in hell. But no worries, Im a bad guy too, and Ill be there to back you up against them.


    Igor turned to look at Ashe, but saw no fear on the face of the Cult Leader. It seemed he had something to rely on; trembling, he straightened his back, lifted his head proudly, and called out loudly to the heavens:


    In the name of Ashe Heath, I offer to the Four Pirs the Sacrifices outside the ring of fireall the Cultists in the underground hall!

 Chapter 184: Internal Strife Within the Four Pillars Cult?

    Chapter 184: Internal Strife Within the Four Pirs Cult?


    The underground hall was so quiet that only the sound of mes licking the air remained.


    The children stopped crying and stared nkly at Igor, who in that moment seemed to shed a decade, looking as bewildered and adorably clueless as the children beside him. Only Harvey maintained aical expression, wanting tough but daring not to, and with his bound right hand, he gave Ashe an enthusiastic thumbs-up.


    Everyone seemed to hold their breath, silently awaiting the oue of this sacrificial showdown.


    One second passed, then two, then three, and nothing happened.


    Disappointment spread across the childrens faces, and Igor let out a quiet sigh.


    The ck Robe Men around them, however, began to grow restless.


    How is this possible


    Have we been abandoned?


    Why is this happening? Four Pirs, are you punishing us?!


    Even Eternal Cmity, whose face could easily shift from charmingly petnt to delightfully cheerful, now furrowed her brows slightly, like a child who sees her toy being snatched away.


    Yes, nothing happened.


    But the absence of an event was the greatest issue of all!


    The Four Pirs response to Sacrifices had always been swift, never showing aloofness or dy. In terms of essibility, the Four Pirs truly excelled at the top of their field, adeptly capturing the pain points of their Followers, strategicallyying out new tracks for growth, and forming a self-sustaining ecosystem of Sacrifice and Oracle, thereby increasing the peoples awareness, ensuring a streamlined, end-to-end, rapid-processing of Sacrifices to the Four Pirs. The Religion advocated for a t, decentralized structure, achieving simplicity and speed in the replication and response of Ritualsthe sturdiest moat of the Four Pirs Cult


    Yet this time, the Four Pirs had failed to respond to the call of their Followers, toe and im their Sacrifice. This was akin toizens discovering a webpage unresponsive, and the panic of the ck Robe Men was understandablethey feared the link to their deity had been severed!


    Who wouldnt fear being cut off from their connection?


    Thud!


    Suddenly, a strange noise came from above, and the ck Robe Men looked up in surprise, only to see a crack forming on the ceiling of the great hall.


    Boom!


    With a loud explosion, the ceiling burst open!


    Ashe watched this scene unfold, feeling as though he had seen this plot develop somewhere before.


    Finally found you, Selina Bright.


    From the settling dust and debris, a Tall Elf with grey hair and long ears descended lightly in front of Ashe and the others. She was cloaked in a red hooded cape, her grey ponytail held high, and in each hand, she wielded a Handgun engraved with runic circuits.


    As shended, the rings of fire around them extinguished instantly, andyers of earthen walls emerged from the fractured ground, perfectly encircling the children for protection!


    With the sound of surging electricity, over a dozen rescuers d in red capes burst through the ceiling, mercilessly firing at the ck Robe Men in the underground hall without any regard for human rights.


    These Cultists, however, were far more formidable than Ashes cheerleading squad, unafraid of the surprise attack. They even drew weapons to Cast Miracle in retaliation, attempting to overwhelm the numerically inferior rescuers!


    Suddenly, a young rescuer let out a surprised and furious roar, Job, thank goodness youre okaydie, Cult Leader!


    The Tall Elfs expression changed dramatically: Kuso, dont


    Whoosh!


    The young man fired an electromaic Shot Bullet at Eternal Cmity, but it collided with another rescuers Shot Bullet. The bullets clinked crisply in the air, their trajectory forcibly twisted, and then


    Crack!


    Ashe heard a sound like a watermelon splitting from behind him, followed by a warmth on his back as if sshed with some warm liquid, and then the childrens hysterical screams of panic.


    He didnt dare look back.


    JobJob!? The young man bellowed in a panic, Impossible, this cant be


    The Tall Elf, eyes still locked onto Eternal Cmity, shouted, Kuso, you are on the battlefield now!


    The Elfs concerns quickly materialized. The young man named Kuso screamed in agony as if he had been counter-killed by a ck Robe Man seizing the opportunity.


    Throughout the ordeal, the Tall Elf never once looked back, standing guard in front of Ashe and the other Sacrifices, her gaze firmly on Eternal Cmity, leaving others to deal with the rest of the ck Robe Cultists.


    Cleos Baimu.


    Despite theirir being raided, Eternal Cmity seemed indifferent, with not a trace of worry on their face. They looked at the Tall Elf with interest and said, The Watcher Crysand Cleos, number one in the Red Cap  Azura Sub-Ranking and tenth in the Red Cap Total Ranking, hase personally to arrest me, a cripple. Selina must be ttered.


    Youre not just crippled, youre also cruel.


    The Elf named Cleos replied coldly, Number one in the Sinners Ranking  Azura Sub-Ranking, sixth in the ughter Ranking  Azura Sub-Ranking, and eighth in the Disaster Messenger Ranking. In recent years, the crime rate in Azura has been climbing annually. Serial killings, kidnappings, drug smuggling, and the resurgence of cult activitiesall are linked to you.


    Eternal Cmity, Ive been wronged, suddenly, they began to whimper. Look at me, I cant even move without a wheelchair, Id starve without someone to serve me. Im just a puppet on disy, and at times, a ything for those behind the scenes Cleos, can I trust you? Can you free me from the control of the Four Pirs Cult?


    Harvey and Igor turned to look at Ashe, skepticism ring in their eyes once againBrother, do all you Cult Leaders have the same script for whitewashing yourselves? Did you all attend the same training ss before taking office?


    Ashe, fully aware of their doubts, whispered in defense, Ive truly been wronged! Rece her subject with me, and its all true!


    So, youve also been yed with by the powers behind the scenes? Harvey asked.


    Cleos remained unmoved by Eternal Cmitys defense, even feeling an urge tough, Selina, you cant escape tonight. Whatever you say is futile, the Gospel is never wrong.


    Eternal Cmitys demeanor changed rapidly, with a cold huff, Blind faith is a road to nowhere, and the most foolish thing is to be selfish enough to believe that gods are selfless. Cleos, your blindness will eventually bring you despair.


    Do you, a Cult Leader, have any right to say such things?


    Because I know that God loves all people, Eternal Cmity said with a smile, but God loves Himself more.


    Cleos fell silent, seemingly uninterested in further indulging Eternal Cmitys ramblings.


    Leaningzily against the Silver Throne, Eternal Cmity said, So, Cleos, if youre so convinced Im the criminal, why note and arrest me? You surely dont expect a disabled little girl to walk down and surrender, do you?


    Im waiting.


    The female Elf said coldly, Waiting for all the Cultists to be dealt with, for all external factors to be eliminated, for your Destiny Miracle to have no exploitable targets. I will personally sound your death knell then.


    Destiny Miracle!


    On hearing the name of this most mysterious of Magical Factions, the three migrant workers couldnt help but prick up their ears.


    Destiny, Truth, Prophecythese three factions are coveted by all Sorcerers, yet no Sorcerer knows how to learn them. Even the most essible Prophecy Faction has no systematic method of study in the Blood Moon Kingdom. Every Professor at Kaimon Comprehensive College who ims to study the Prophecy Faction is simply embezzling funds.


    Although the Prophecy Faction is seen as a Phantasmal Mirage, Sorcerers still consider it a legitimate faction. However, the Truth and Destiny Factions have been denounced by many as feudal superstitionswithout even a shadow of a faction spirit, tales of Truth and Destiny Sorcerers only exist in ancient myths, no different from the settings of fantasy novels!


    A Magical Faction deemed a feudal superstition even by those who believe in miracles, manifesting right before their eyes?


    Before acting, I exhausted all my Points and the Gospel, and from the Gospel, I found a way to defeat youcannot harm you, said Cleos. If Im not mistaken, your Destiny Miracle works by twisting any attack against you through various idents, even turning it back on those who harbor Killing Intent towards you.


    Just now, Kuso tried to shoot you, but the Shot Bullets coincidentally hit his own brother, and in his distraught state, he was killed by your followers A truly terrifying Destiny Miracle.


    So my n of action is to first eliminate your underlings, clear all the unstable factors that could aid you, and then deal with you slowly. The female Elf sneered. Whats it like to watch yourself walk into a dead end? Is there fear brewing beneath that lovely human skin of yours?


    You deserve the respect youmand, Crysand of the Red Cap Cleos, but theres one thing you got wrong.


    Eternal Cmity smiled and said, The ability you describe is not the Destiny Miracle, and I am not proficient in that legendary Magical Faction.


    Its not a miracle, not a spirit, not a Secret Poison, not a blessing.


    It is my Tactile sense.


    Nonsense! Cleos looked around and realized that the ck Robe Men had mostly been subdued. She waited no longer and aimed her gun at


    The ceiling!


    Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!


    Cleos Shot Bullets seemed to carry a miracle of their own, a few shots rapidly dissolving the rock of the ceiling. As the rumbling grew louder, a massiveyer of rock was about to fall, aiming to smash Eternal Cmity sitting on the Silver Throne into a pulp!


    Ashe immediately understood Cleos ideaif I cannot attack you directly, but I attack the rock and let it fall on you, wouldnt that circumvent your strange Destiny Miracle?


    It seemed like a smart move, and Ashe couldnt see any ws. The ck Robe Cultists were subdued and couldnt save Eternal Cmity, who also had no ability to move. If she wanted to leave the Silver Throne, she would have to rely on a spirit or a miracle.


    But for some reason, Ashe had a strong premonitionSelina was not a Sorcerer!


    Apart from her so-called Tactile sense, she had not mastered any spirit or miracle!


    Just like Heath at the beginning!


    Crack.


    Amidst the rumbling noise, a strange cracking sound captured everyones attention. They looked up to see a bizarre crack in the middle of the ceiling, with a few drops of water seeping through.


    Cleos pupils shrank sharply, and she fired a shot behind her, the ground surging quickly into a fortress to protect the children.


    Smash!


    The rockpletely crumbled, but with it came a torrential flow of water!


    Ceilings elsewhere also began to rapidly crumble, and the roar of an underground river gushed into the subterranean hall like a waterfall!


    How could there possibly be an underground river right there


    Cleos watched, her eyes nearly popping out of their sockets. The Red Cap had burst through the ceiling to enter, and it was sheer luck they hadnt hit the underground river?


    Frustration brought moisture to her eyes, and she bit her lip while rapidly firing at the floor. Layers of Earth Magic walls rose with a rumble in an attempt to hold back the river.


    However, it wasnt just the front; the walls to the sides began to crack as well, and the raging river water surged in like an army. It was as if the entire underground hall was built over a subterranean sea, and the slightest breach would result in immediate inundation!


    Both the Red Cap and the ck Robe Man were swept away by the river, tumbling in disarray. Cleos could only rely on her Earth Magic Miracle to protect herself for the moment, unable to care for othersthus Ashe was also swept away.


    Perhaps Ashe and the others were too close to Cleos, or perhaps she felt adults didnt need special protection, so her Earth Magic Miracle only covered the children, leaving Ashe and two others exposed.


    Ashes hands and feet were still bound by Miracle chains; unless he could spin his tongue like a propeller, he had no way to swim, so he could only hold his breath and go with the flow until he bumped into a soft body and stopped.


    You bumped into me.


    Heh, sorry about that.


    Ashe hurriedly took deep breaths and looked down, realizing he was lying on the armrest of the Silver Throne.


    The former Cult Leader turned slightly, only to see his small, drenchedpanion looking like a drowned rat.


    He now resembled a perverted adult lying on thep of a little girlif thetter had legs, that is.


    You just said, youre the apocalypse observer? she whispered to Ashe conspiratorially.


    Ashe nodded and then shook his head, squirming to get away from the current Cult Leader: Actually, Ive turned over a new leaf


    Let me reintroduce myself. I am Eternal Cmity, Eternal Entanglement, Ultimate Evesting. Eternal Cmity smiled. Pleased to meet you, apocalypse observer. You can call me Evesting.


    Ashe was somewhat stunned: (o) You can call me Observer.


    Well then, Observer, please go die.


    Selina lifted her head high and then mmed it down


    Banging her forehead against Ashes!

 Chapter 185: You Hurt Me

    Chapter 185: You Hurt Me


    Selina didn��t care that Red Cap had eradicated her stronghold.


    As ��Tactile,�� the word ��failure�� did not exist in her dictionary, only ��dyed sess.��


    All resistance would be weing, all distancing would be approaching, and all death would be reunion.


    It was like a story whose ending had been written long ago; no matter how the plot twisted and turned, the final chapter would inevitably arrive on schedule.


    The only thing that mattered to her was Ashe Heath.


    Theck of response from the Four Pirs Cult to her sacrifice was enough to indicate the significance of this man.


    Interestingly, the Four Pirs Cult also failed to respond to his sacrifice.


    To others, the sight of Ashe sacrificing the followers of the Four Pirs Cult may have seemed like a ludicrous and desperatest act, but Selina didn��t see it that way.


    If she had not been presiding over the ritual, if she had not been in the underground hall, if she had not been part of the deration of sacrifice made by Ashe, perhaps he would have seeded��if only one of these had been different.


    The Four Pirs Cult��s reluctance to sacrifice Ashe meant that his words were significant enough to garner their attention. Based on her experience, the Four Pirs Cult rarely took notice of beings in this world, with the sole exception being ��Tactile.��


    Although she didn��t know how Ashe, as ��Tactile,�� had ended up in such dire straits, his status meant that the Four Pirs Cult would likely satisfy some of his reasonable requests, such as conducting a sacrifice. Therefore, during the recent ritual, it was highly possible that the Four Pirs Cult would respond to his sacrifice.


    But the result was that the Four Pirs Cult responded neither to him nor to Selina, not even making the slightest disturbance.


    The Four Pirs Cult seldom ��neglected�� Tactile in this manner, and Selina believed there was only one possible exnation for this situation: ack of consensus within the Four Pirs Cult.


    If they had all decided to support either Ashe or Selina, then surely one side��s sacrifice would have been sessful. However, since both had survived, it meant that there was a divide within the Four Pirs Cult regarding their value: some believed Selina was of greater worth, while others saw more potential in Ashe.


    Selina wasn��t sure whether the support she and Ashe had from the Four Pirs was split 3:1, 1:3, or an even 2:2.


    She also recalled that a few days ago, the Four Pirs had unusually issued an Oracle demanding the next Sacrifice include ��People from the Exotic Lands.��


    It was quite rare for the Four Pirs to express such a craving, and at the time, Selina didn��t think much of it; she simply tasked the Funeral Firm with finding someone from the Exotic Lands, and that��s how Ashe Heath was brought to her.


    In hindsight, the Oracle seemed to be a deliberate arrangement for Ashe toe to her stronghold and rece her��within the same Kingdom, there was no need for a second Tactile.


    When the Oracle was issued, it was predetermined that Selina would make way for Ashe.


    Although Tactile was important, when there were two, the Four Pirs would start to pick and choose, keeping only the best one, discarding all others.


    For some reason, the Four Pirs had suddenly changed their minds, neither allowing Ashe to rece Selina nor considering Selina more important than Ashe, hesitating and unable toe to a unanimous decision.


    So, the task before Selina was simple��to alleviate the Four Pirs�� dilemma by eliminating the wrong option.


    Ashe was momentarily stunned by the unexpected charge, but soon realized it wasn��t as painful as he had imagined.


    He looked at Selina with a bewildered gaze, her forehead bleeding from a cut, ��Why did you do that?��


    Ashe��s thick-skinned forehead was fine, but Selina��s delicate one had been injured.


    Selina stuck out her small tongue, seemingly trying to lick the blood that had reached the corner of her mouth, but her tongue was too short, barely managing to taste a bit of it, and said with a grin, ��See, I��m bleeding.��


    ��Yeah, so what?�� he asked.


    ��I may not respect those who only rely on the Gospel,�� Selina stated, ��but I must admit, everything it says is true. ��You cannot harm me�� is an admonition you must heed.��


    ��You hurt me, and for that, you must pay with your life.��


    Ashe looked at the fresh blood on Selina��s forehead, his face etched with an expression that seemed to say, ��Why is this happening to me?�� He said, ��But you��re the one who bumped into it, causing your own injury! You can��t possibly me me for that. I haven��t even held you ountable for intentionally hurting someone��that��s already showing respect for elders and love for the young! You��re clearly pulling a Bumping Scam!��


    ��Are you angry? Annoyed? Come hit me then.��


    Selina stuck out her tongue, barely managing to lick the blood, and with a smile said, ��The moment you injured me, my Tactile had already touched you. Perhaps if my Tactile absorbed your death, it would be even stronger, right?��


    Ashe had a bad feeling, ��What exactly is Tactile? A Miracle? Or some special ability?��


    He had heard the term from Professor Sylin, but had never found any relevant information. Now, after transmigrating to a new Kingdom, he was still entangled with the Four Pirs Cult��it was like switching jobs only to find out that the newpany was already under the control of the previous shady business.


    ��Tactile is just Tactile,�� Selina said, looking at Ashe with a puzzled expression. ��If you��re asking what my Tactile is, didn��t I tell you just now?��


    ��Uh? Could you repeat that?��


    Selina tilted her head, revealing a sweet smile:


    ��Eternal Entanglement, Ultimate Evesting.��


    ��Selina!��


    At that moment, Cleos and the other Red Caps had finally managed to temporarily seal all the breaches with their Earth Magic and Water Art. With tears blurring her vision, she red at Selina and raised her Gun towards the half-submerged Silver Throne!


    If the Silver Throne were to crumble and explode, Selina would naturally fall into the water and drown!


    The Elves�� marksmanship was precise, hitting the base of the throne underwater perfectly, causing the Silver Throne to emit electrical sounds as it disintegrated. Selina, soaked through, unable to even make a swimming motion like a doll, sank into the water like a child��s toy.


    Yet Selina remained calm, showing no sign of fear of being submerged.


    Gurgle, gurgle��


    Strange noises came from beneath the Silver Throne, and whirlpools began to form around Selina. The water level rapidly decreased, visible to the naked eye. Cleos bit her lip in anger, but as she raised her hand, she stopped herself��she couldn��t directly harm the monster disguised as a girl, for it would be she who would die!


    Selinayfortably in the water, allowing herself to be pulled into the whirlpool that had appeared below.


    ��But what you��re actually afraid of is not me, but the Gospel of God.��


    ��How can a gun with the safety on kill anyone?��


    After leaving these words behind, Selina was sucked into a small cave that had appeared after the copse of the Silver Throne. Fortunately, the cave was too small, or else Ashe would have been swept into the whirlpool as well.


    Cleos ran over and immediately her ears pricked up in anger��the cave below was precisely above a fading Virtual Realm Passage!


    Moreover, it was a Virtual Realm Passage that was about to dissipate. Virtual Realm Turbulence was rapidly spreading and just as Ashe leaned in to look, the turbulence had vanished into nothingness, making it impossible now to rush in and pursue.


    ��Damn it, damn it all!�� Cleos shot into the cave a few times in fury, then suddenly slumped to the ground, biting her lip in frustration and wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. ��She got away�� and it was by my own hand����


    Ashe had not expected that Selina could escape like this, and not by using a spirit, or relying on a Miracle, nor by summoning the Four Pirs Cult toe down and beat up the children. It was because Cleos had lifted the floor, leading to the vile Eternal Cmity being sucked into the fading Virtual Realm Passage below.


    Her physical body had done nothing, not even moved. If Cleos had done nothing, they might have caught her by now. But that was impossible��just like the underground hall being surrounded by a subterranean river is a natural rule, Cleos��s fear of Eternal Cmity was also predestined.


    This is�� Eternal Entanglement, Ultimate Evesting.


    She is the Rule of Cmity.


    Although the pain on his forehead had almost faded, Ashe felt a chill in his heart��Selina��s forehead bump was definitely not a prank, but a deliberate move to cause him trouble! With Selina��s favor and Ashe having left without resigning, causing the Four Pirs Cult to lose the Blood Moon Kingdom market, the Directors of the Four Pirs Cult would surely have a big problem with Ashe!

 Chapter 186: Sorry to Interrupt

    Chapter 186: Sorry to Interrupt


    This is absolutely preposterous; every attack meant to take her down somehow turns into an aid for her escape.


    Ashe backed away quietly into his camp of outsiders, grumbling, This has gone beyond coincidence. Could she be a maiden beloved by Destiny itself?


    If thats the case, wouldnt you be a child of Destiny too? Harvey chuckled.


    What?


    Indeed, Igor couldnt help but interject, I wanted to deal with you, yet I ended up being framed and had no choice but to join the Escape n; Valcas wanted to deal with you, but ended up protecting you during the Blood Moon Tribunal; and we just happened toe across a Necromancer capable of controlling the Chip Processor An Escape n that should have taken years to devise, but because you could gather all the key yers, we broke out in less than a month.


    If you think about it, Cult Leader, your prison break story is actually more bizarre than that puppet girls.


    Thats not the same! Ashe protested, Isnt it normal for a Prison to house many skilled in various escape arts? Its like asking people on a train if they have tickets; of course, everyone does!


    Plus, the escape was all thanks to my remarkable willpower, relentless effort, tenacity, and the crucial shes of brilliance at the right momentspure personal endeavor, not a hint of luck!


    Even Harvey couldnt help but let out a yeah right, I wont argue with a fool amiable smile.


    Double standards much, Igor spat, Your achievements are personal effort, while others are favored by Destiny? Is it that hard to admit youre a cker?


    What I do is properly allocate human resources, allowing everyone to y to their strengths, ensuring the right people do the right jobs


    Igor sneered, As expected, ckers never admit theyre ckers, and those with good fortune never acknowledge lucks part in it.


    I see the light, Ashe said with an epiphany, a punchable expression on his face, Youre trying to suppress me again, arent you? You must think Im important, thats why youre verbally bullying me, right?


    Igors mouth twisted with irritation, You double-standard dog


    Alright, alright, Harvey quickly smoothed things over, shifting the conversation, If we had also jumped in just now, we would have only faced that puppet girl who doesnt have much attacking power. But now


    And who knows, the other side might be the stronghold of the Four Pirs Cult, Igor said with annoyance, And we already know that our dear Cult Leader doesnt have much standing within his own faction.


    Ashe, looking at the bubbling cave, couldnt help but be slightly lost in thought.


    He suddenly remembered a report in the collection of observation points that Professor Sylin had gathered, one of which stated across the Virtual Realm Passage is an underground river


    Could it be that Eternal Cmity went to the Blood Moon Kingdom?


    Whats this? A tactical switcher?


    Click.


    The three Trespassers looked up to see Cleos approach, her beautiful eyes swollen from crying, her nose twitching, You three, youre People from the Exotic Lands?


    ording to thews of the Gospel Kingdom, any People from the Exotic Lands must be executed immediately.


    Without giving them a chance to exin, she raised her Gun and aimed at Ashes forehead, May the Gospel guide your path.


    Staring into the dark muzzle of the Gun, Ashe realized he was still in dangerthey were not under the protection of the local security forces but were regarded as invasive species, akin to American cockroaches, and casually killing them was a basic moral duty that good citizens were expected to adhere to!


    To them, the Four Pirs Cult was indeed a savage beast, but the locals were even more ferocious natives!


    Butpared to the Four Pirs Cult, the local security forces were even more despairingagainst viins, there might still be good people to fight them, but if good people were after them, who could stir up trouble?


    Just then, a pleasant voice came from above.


    Wait a minute, Cleos, didnt we agree that the spoils of war were mine?


    Someone hade to their rescue!


    The three Trespassers turned around in surprise, thinking that whoever saved them, they would be eternally grateful


    But the next moment, all their gratitude turned into annoyance.


    Long time no see, gentlemen.


    The Purple-d Girl descended from the hole in the ceiling,nding gently like a butterfly: Although we just met an hour ago.


    The Butler boy followed closely behind, pointing to the waterlogged ground, a frosty path extended, allowing the Purple-d Girls boots to step on the clean ice surface.


    These two were the ambushers outside the Virtual Realm Passage, the culprits who would sell the body of the smuggled trio to the Four Pirs Cult, members of the Funeral Firm!


    Annan. Cleos took out a handkerchief and wiped her nose. You want to keep these People from the Exotic Lands?


    Not keep, retrieve whats mine, the Purple-d Girl, Annan, said with a smile: As we agreed before, as a reward for reporting the Four Pirs Cults base to Red Cap, they belong to me as spoils of war, and you cant just dispose of them.


    Sold us, then sold out the Four Pirs Cult, yed both sides, now wants to recycle us for more gain?


    Ashe gave Igor a looksee, one of your kind.


    Igor shook his headits one of your kind.


    They are People from the Exotic Lands, Cleos enunciated. They are like Selina, pests that endanger the world and spheme the Gospel, and they must be executed promptly. Otherwise, once the Gospel behind their ears fades, they will go back and inform the Dark God of the Exotic Lands, leading demons to trample our fields, cities, and innocent citizens.


    The Gospel behind the ears?


    Ashe, turn your head to the right.


    Why cant I look at you instead


    While grumbling, Ashe obediently turned his head, and Igor took a nce, whispering, Theres a pale yellow countdown behind your ear, probably started from 72 hours, likely preventing us from spatial movement.


    That is the divine punishment from the Omniscient Weaver for you demons who dare to invade the Gospel Kingdom, Cleos pressed the barrel of her Gun against Ashes forehead. Before the countdown ends, we who listen to the Gospel will y all of you blind and foolish demons.


    Ashe and hispanions exchanged nces, all thinking the same thingit seemed the Kingdoms invasion defense mechanism wasnt very robust. They were aware that someone had sessfully returned to the Blood Moon alive through the Virtual Realm Passage three days ago, which was why the Hunting Festival was scheduled for May 1st.


    They wont be able to anymore, the Purple-d Girl said with a smile. After they arrived at the Gospel, the Virtual Realm Passage they transmigrated through was closed. They cant return now. If you dont believe me, you could use the Gospel to check if Im lying.


    Cleos hesitated for a moment. Youre not deceiving me?


    Isnt it cheap to verify if Im lying? Youre not willing to spend even that few Points? Ill cover the cost if its too much.


    No need. Cleoss eyes reddened again. But they are still People from the Exotic Lands


    People from the Exotic Lands who wont earn you any Points even if you kill them, the Purple-d Girl stated. I just checked; there are no bounties for these three in the Gospel. Killing them wont improve your ranking in the Red Cap. On the other hand, our contract clearly states that I get the spoils of war. If you insist on breaching the contract, it could significantly impact your credit record and might even result in you dropping out of the Red Cap Total Ranking.


    But theyre not spoils of war


    So you admit theyre natural persons? Right now, they have no criminal record, and for a Red Cap to kill a natural person with no criminal record is a Taboo.


    Cleos sniffled, Your Firm always has such twisted logic But they are still People from the Exotic Lands, with a high tendency towards crime. If you want to take them, you need a way to control them.


    Its already prepared.


    The Purple-d Girl produced three gold-edged contracts on white Contract Fabric. Directly exchanged from the Gospel, bound by both the Virtual Realm and the Omniscient Weaver, not even a legend with Quadruple wings could break these contracts. As long as they sign these three, epting my terms, they absolutely cannot harm the Gospel. Are you satisfied now?


    By the name of Dn, under mymand, they will only be a strength for the Gospel.


    Cleos raised her Gun, seemingly persuaded. If thats the case


    The three sat on the ground, looking pitiful, weak, and helpless. Normally, Trespassers would be wailing and begging to sign a Contract to save their lives at this point.


    Yet, none of them spoke; they just calmly watched.


    It seems theyre not willing to be bound, Cleos said, pressing the Gun once more to Ashes forehead. Since were burying Cultists anyway, a few more wont matter


    Hold on, Cleos, the Purple-d Girl said as she crouched down to look at them. Dont you want to live? Why arent you speaking?


    The three exchanged nces, and finally, Ashe spoke, I would like to speak, actually. But seeing how engrossed you both were in your performance, it seemed rude to interrupt.

 Chapter 187: Bewitcher and Eternal Calamity

    Chapter 187: Bewitcher and Eternal Cmity


    Although a good-cop, bad-cop negotiation tactic is indeed very practical, your performance was simply too poor, a bit too restrained.


    The seasoned Con Artistmented, If that Elf could make a few holes in mypanion, we might feel a bit of tension. But your conversation is so stiff, not daring to properly spice things up with mypanion, it just ends up being an awkward chat, which actually reassures me.


    Im not yourpanion, am I? Ashe inquired.


    Definitely not mine, Harvey said somberly. Mypanions dont breathe.


    Not to mention Igor, the scammer thriving on the tax of stupidity, and the Necromancer whod been immersed in the underworld since childhood, even Ashe, a naive young man new to the world, could see through their act. How could he possibly be fooled?


    Cleos burst into tears, Not catching Selina is bad enough to be mocked by People from the Exotic Lands sob


    Ashe was dumbfounded, Come on, sister, its not that bad. And could you please raise the gun a bit when you cry? Im afraid you might lose control


    The Purple-d Girlughed, Youre quite brave. But if it were me, Id feign ignorance and gratefully sign the Contractyour lives are in my hands, do you think you have any bargaining power?


    We do.


    Igor spoke calmly, While Im not sure of the specific value, theres no doubt you need us People from the Exotic Lands. If Im not mistaken, we are quite rare here, and we three might just be the only bargaining chips you can catch.


    That means were priceless. If you want to make use of us, youll have to consider our opinions, otherwise, youll find no substitutes.


    Forget about that kind of ve Contract, state your real needs.


    Youre not wrong, the Purple-d Girl smiled. People like you who can quickly grasp the situation but havent been indoctrinated with the Gospel from a young age will inevitably be a serious threat.


    Thanks for the exaggeration.


    But it seems youve forgotten one thing, the Purple-d Girl said with a wicked smile. I do need People from the Exotic Lands, but now I have three to choose fromI still have a choice.


    She pulled out a piece of Contract Fabric and tore it in half: I think I should only need one not-so-smart new ve. Pretty girl, youre out.


    Igors mouth twitched with anger: Im a man!


    So, the Purple-d Girl pulled out a second piece of Contract Fabric, making a gesture as if to tear it, while I only need one new ve, I wouldnt mind having twoshould someone be wise enough to understand.


    Still, no one responded.


    Ashe and Harvey calmly watched her, their faces devoid of fear, as if they were watching a poorly staged y. Even the Purple-d Girl couldnt maintain herposure and gritted her teeth: Are you some sort of die-hard brothers?


    They just see through your bluster, Igor said softly. If you really only need one Person from the Exotic Lands, why not let that Elf open my skull with Shot Bullets to see whats inside?


    Setting everything else aside, I agree with that statement, Ashe said. Im curious if his brain is dark enough to ooze juice.


    The Purple-d Girl looked at them coldly, her stunning face filled with a chill, and the atmosphere grew heavier. Just when Ashe thought she was about to lose her temper andsh out to save face, the cries of children being rescued broke the silence.


    She sighed, What kind of corrupt Kingdom cultivates such cunning devils as you?


    Id rather call it wisdom, Igor said indifferently.


    The Purple-d Girl took out another intact piece of Contract Fabric from her bosom, gave it a light pat, and immediately lines of text appeared.


    This is my bottom line, she said. Sign it, or die here.


    Cleos fired three shots, releasing the Miracle chains from around Ashe and hispanions without harming them in the slightest.


    Trespassers showed no intent to resist; not only were they surrounded by a dozen Red Caps, but they still wore Arcane Lock Cors around their necks. Moreover, the weeping female Elf alone was enough to dissuade them from any bold ideasthey might not have captured Selina, but it was highly likely that the Elf was also a Sorcerer from the Tri-wing Sanctuary!


    With a Cult Leader of Ashes caliber having Gerard at his service, it was obvious that Selina was of a higher rank in every aspectpared to Ashe. Cleos, responsible for capturing Selina, couldnt possibly be inferior to Gerard. Besides, Cleos was ranked tenth on the Red Cap Total Ranking, and it was odd that she didnt have Rainbow Wings.


    As for why a Tri-wing Sorcerer couldnt capture a seemingly weak Cult Leader with Ashe as a clear example, Igor and Harvey considered it a normal urrence.


    They obediently picked up the Contract to read it and immediately showed puzzled expressions, exchanging nces without a word.


    This time, the Purple-d Girl was really angry, and her green pupils almost turned into vertical slits filled with Killing Intent: Are you trying to push your luck?


    Ashe raised his hand and said, No, we just have a small request.


    What is it?


    Could you give us a dictionary? he lifted the Contract: There are some words here we dont understand.


    In truth, not understanding some words was an understatement for Ashealmost half of the text waspletely iprehensible to them, with a difference not like that between simplified and traditional characters, but more like that between modern text and Martian script!


    Interestingly, the other half of the text was identical to thenguage of the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    After all, for different kingdoms with almost no contact, even if theirnguages and scripts shared the same origin, they would inevitably evolve into two entirely different systems over time. The fact that Ashe and hispanions could barely understand thenguage here was already quite lucky; it was perfectly reasonable that they could onlyprehend half of the written text.


    Ashe suddenly remembered that the Swordswomans ent was a bit odd, but then he heard she came from the countryside, and he thought it was just a charming quirk of her character


    Ah, my apologies, that was my oversight.


    With a snap of her fingers, the Purple-d Girl summoned a book bound in exquisite purple amethyst, which materialized in front of her. Perhaps due to the frequency of its mention today or the books own peculiar allure, Ashe and hispanions instantly recognized its namethe Gospel.


    One Point each, my treat, dered the Purple-d Girl as she tossed three golden seeds to them. Igor rubbed one between his fingers, finding its texture gtinous, What is this?


    The Gospel for mortals, the medium of knowledge, the foundation of omniscience, the bane of ignorance, the seeds of wisdom, the Purple-d Girl said with a smile. These are the Seeds of Wisdom. Eat them, and youll immediately master ournguage.


    In the suburbs of Kaimon City, Blood Moon Kingdom.


    Its a shame we cant go up to the waterfall Adra sat on a small stool, gazing at the crimson waterfall bathed in the blood moons light, her face etched with regret.


    Camping here is just as good, Freya was more easy-going. She lifted the pot lid with tongs and dered, The river delicacy pot is ready! Im starving, didnt think wed only get to eat when the sky turned red, all because Adra cant fish


    Its your fault for not being able to start a fire!


    Despite their bickering, the two were efficient in scooping up the food, blowing on it to cool before satisfyingly munching away.


    Clearly, they were campingalbeit not in the traditional sense. The proper way to camp, ording to Sorcerer training, would be to camp alone since its a preliminary part of a Sorcerers regimen.


    Upon entering the Virtual Realm, a Sorcerer must journey through the Sea of Knowledge alone, facing challenges such as loneliness, fear, and silence. For humans, who are social creatures, new Sorcerers often need considerable time to adapt to the adventures of the Virtual Realm. Therefore, to forge the will of Sorcerers, Apprentices can engage in various activities in reality to simte the experience of Virtual Realm Adventure.


    Camping, for instance, serves as an excellent means of experience. Wilderness survival is quite simr to Virtual Realm Adventure, and most college students go camping to get a taste of independent living, which also means a not-so-low probability of encountering bad elements and untimely demise.


    But this is precisely one of the necessary elements of camping: without the risk to life, there would be no experiential value!


    So, the way Freya and Adra were camping was incorrectthey couldnt possibly travel in pairs in the Virtual Realm, and camping together held no value for training!


    After eating her fill, Adras gaze still longingly drifted toward the upstream of the waterfall: What happened there, why is it sealed off as a restricted Area?


    They had originally nned to camp upstream of the waterfall, an Area rumored to be frequented by bears, wolves, and dogs, brimming with danger. Adra, who loved the thrill of gambling, had prepared her Handgun and various weapons, ready for a night vigil to y a game of whos the Hunter with the animals. However, upon arrival, they discovered that the entire Area had been sealed by the Sin Hunters Hall, with no entry allowed for non-authorized individuals.


    Maybe theres a Virtual Realm Passage, Freya suggested while stripping off her clothes.


    Youre in the mood just after eating?


    No, Im going to bathe. The Bewitcher pointed towards the nearby river and said, Dont worry, I can hold off for a night or two.


    And what about three nights?


    Can you go three days without gambling?


    Wow, youre strong. Adra admired: I can only abstain from gambling for one day.


    Watching the Bewitcher yfully jump into the crimson river, Adra secretly let out a sigh.


    Thest time, Adra had intended to invite Freya to rx, but it turned out to be a rxation trip for herself. She felt a bit guilty, but seeing that even beauty couldnt tempt the Bewitcher, Adra became even more convinced that Freya must have a serious problem.


    After much thought, Adra decided to take her camping to experience nature, and the reasoning was perfectly legitimate. Camping, along with the risks of being harassed or even murdered by vagrants, was an essential part of college life that had to be experienced.


    Wait, shes gone to bathe, then whos going to wash the dishes and the pot?


    Muttering to herself, Adra still obediently picked up the utensils and headed to the river slightly upstream from Freya to clean them, trying to annoy the Bewitcher with the greasy mess. Freya, seeing from afar that her plot was uncovered, swam over in an appeasing manner: Oops, let me help you wash a dish


    Ssh!


    Both turned their gaze toward the waterfall as Adra asked, Did you hear that?


    I did, Freya nodded: It sounded like something fell into the waterfall. A rock?


    I dont think so


    Under their anxious scrutiny, a pitiable figure in a ck dress, petite and doll-like, appeared before them, carried by the current like a discarded child.


    Kind big sister, considerate big sister, the drenched puppet girl said pitifully: Can you save Selina?

 Chapter 188: Daddy!

    Chapter 188: Daddy!


    Employment Contract


    Party A: Annan Dn


    Party B: Ashe Heath/Igor Bukin/Archibald Harvey


    use 1: Party A is required to ensure the personal safety of Party B.


    use 2: Party A must guarantee Party B eight hours of Rest daily.


    use 3: Party B has the right to autonomously decide their course of action when injured.


    .


    use 39: Party B has the right to refuse unreasonable mating demands.


    Subject to the above uses, Party A maymand Party B to do anything, but suchmands must not vite the aforementioned uses.


    Contract duration: 101 days, start time: May 2, 1668, 19:15, end time: August 10, 1668, 19:15.


    As the three contracts dissolved into golden light and vanished into the air, the Purple-d Girl Annan pressed a button, and the Arcane Lock Cors of the three individuals named Ashe were simultaneously released.


    Wee to the team. Let us get along well for the next 101 days.


    Annan spread her arms as if to wee them: I am the head of the Funeral Firm, Annan Dn. You can call me Director, Miss, or Boss, but I prefer another titlePurple Moth. This is my Butler, Banjeet Mikalis, also the second member of the firm.


    The young Butler politely nodded to them and handed them each a handkerchief.


    Igor epted the handkerchief with a cold demeanor, feeling somewhat reluctanttime was indeed tight, and they were under someone elses roof and had to bow their heads. The other party was adamant about not modifying the absolute control use, so Igor could only add uses to protect their rights.


    Besides, Annans reasoning was sound: she needed them for some very secretive tasks, and without having been granted control, there was no basis for mutual trust. How could she possibly reveal her true needs?


    Ashe, staring at the handkerchief, suddenly asked a strange question: Is it also 1668 here?


    Hmm? Annan urately captured the keyword: Also?


    Wee from the Blood Moon Kingdom, Igors eyes flickered, ording to the Blood Moon calendar, today is also May 2, 1688.


    The fact that different nations shared the same calendar was intriguing, hinting at secrets from ancient times, so everyone silently agreed to drop the topic.


    Actually, theres something Ive been wanting to ask for a long time, Ashe said. Despite being from different nations, why do we share the samenguage and have simr writing systems?


    As soon as these words were spoken, everyone looked at Ashe with subtle expressions. Annan, with high emotional intelligence, directly posed the question, It seems the Blood Moon Kingdom is quite a barbaric ce, havent they poprized basic education yet?


    I wont refute the first part of your statement, but he really did fall through the cracks of basic education, Igor sighed. Please dont generalize his individual behavior to all of the Blood Moon people.


    Ashe still looked confused, but at that moment, Red Cap Cleos approached and rified his doubts, The original writtennguage came from the names of spirits. Once a Sorcerer fully masters a spirit, they learn the true name and pronunciation of that spirit. Hence, in any nation ruled by Sorcerers, thenguages and pronunciations arergely simr.


    Annan alsomented, The characters you didnt recognize just now are mostly extended characters that have never be the names of spirits. If Im not mistaken, the number of extended characters is decreasing every year, gradually being reced by the root characters of new spirits.


    So, there is a set of root characters in this world? Ashe had a moment of realization. Then who created these root characters?


    Thats an excellent question. Every generation of Sorcerers tries to unveil the mysteries of the spirits. When you be interested, it means youre also contributing to this great cause, Annan encouraged. As long as you follow mymands for these 101 days, afterward, youll not only gain your freedom but perhaps also the power to know the Truth. I wont let you down.


    Adapting on the fly is crucial when ites to offering incentives, and on this front, the Firms director indeed had a Talent for exploiting peoplethough her heart didnt seem hard enough. It appeared that touching fish under her leadership would be quite an easy task Ashe quickly assessed the new bosss various attributes.


    At that moment, Cleos looked at Annan and asked, Annan, you said before that you only picked up three people from the exotds through the Gospel?


    Yes, what about it?


    Besides the three of them, we found another person from the exotds.


    While everyone was still in shock, a Red Cap led a little girl with white hair over to them. Ashe and the others recognized her immediatelyshe was the calm and collected little Drama Queen from the ritual.


    The Drama Queen hung her head low, clutching the hem of her dress nervously, and then timidly nced up at Annan. Herrge eyes were filled with fear, like a trembling littlemb, eliciting a sense of pity from those around her.


    Annans tone instantly became as sweet as melting ice cream: There, there, let sister check if your ears are hurt.


    She examined the back of the little girls ears and found no countdown, but since Cleos mentioned it, it couldnt be false. Annan quickly confirmed through the Gospel that the little girl was indeed from the exotds.


    Because she could not find any past for the little girl!


    Only those who had not lived in the Gospel Kingdom would have no past records in the Gospel!


    There, there, can you tell sister why you are here? Where do your parents live? I can take you back to them.


    The white-haired little girl looked at her timidly and shook her head: I I dont know I was caught by the bad guys


    Where were you before you were caught by the bad guys, what were you doing?


    I dont know I forgot She shook her head in distress: I dont remember anything.


    Annan didnt show whether she believed or disbelieved the girl, instead, she opened the Gospel and spent points to conduct a search.


    The conclusion from the Gospel was that the little girl was not lying.


    She had truly lost her memory!


    It could be due to an ident while transmigrating through the Virtual Realm Passage or when caught by Cultists, leading to amnesia, Annan turned to look at Ashe and the others: Answer me, did you see her beforeing to the Gospel Kingdom?


    No, the three of them responded in unison.


    Before Ashe could process the situation, his mouth had already reacted.


    Igors expression shifted slightlyit was an easily discernible shock, but indeed very effective. Annans control over them was more direct and thorough than imagined.


    Have you checked her body?


    There are no traces of Miracle or spirit. Cleos stated, Theoretically, she should pose no threat, but


    Annan understood Cleos concerns. Trespassers like Ashe and hispanions, who had burned their bridges, were one thing, but a white-haired little girl of unknown origin was indeed a very dangerous bomb. If it were any other time, Annan would also suggest letting the little girl sleep eternally in her dreams, for after all, what family would be willing to take in a child from the Exotic Lands?


    But as it happened, Annan needed People from the Exotic Lands, and children were more suitable candidates for her needs than adults.


    She thought for a moment and asked, Do you remember your name?


    After a moment of silence, the white-haired little girl said, Lise, my name is Lise.


    Annan. Cleos couldnt help but interject, A contract signed by a minor has no legal force.


    Only Fabric does not recognize the contractual power of minors, but the basic Virtual Realm Contract does not care about the age of the parties. Annan extended her hand to the little girl, Shake hands.


    However, the little girl stepped back in fear, as if Annans palm concealed needles.


    The beautiful Purple Moth slightly narrowed her eyes, her smile bing even more radiant, Whats the matter, dont you like shaking hands with sister? If you shake hands with sister, she will be willing to take care of you, buy you pretty clothes, tasty snacks, and even tell you fairy tales to lull you to sleep at night~


    Igor watched from the sidelines with a cold gaze. Although this woman named Annan seemed somewhat nave in her methods, her heart was definitely decisive and cunning. First, she sold them to the Four Pirs Cult, then she colluded with the Red Caps to attack the Cult and rescue them, and after that, she let the Red Caps threaten them, only to appear herself as their savior It was a roller coaster of emotions and events.


    The minds of the People from the Exotic Lands, already groggy, were turned into a muddle of L Fatty sauce after such a rapid session of bewildering events, leaving them utterly incapable of making any urate judgments.


    Upon seeing Annan, who had trafficked them, actually willing to rescue them in their hour of need, it was easy to trigger a victim mentality where they could be so moved by the perpetrators kindness that they would lose their reason and naturally sign a humiliating ve Contract.


    Fortunately, all three of them were hardened viins who had wed their way out of the manure pit; even if not at their best, it was almost a survival instinct for them to see through such basic deceitAshe wouldnt be fooled either.


    Although the n failed, this did not mean Annan was ipetent.


    Her ability to quickly regainposure and negotiate with Igor, even willing to make certain concessions to expedite the signing of the contract, was enough for Igor to take a second look at hergreedy but not avaricious, indifferent to sunk costs, not coveting the best oue, always able to make the optimal decision, she had the makings of a perfectly rational person.


    Therefore, Igor knew that if they did not sign the contract, Annan would definitely not let them goputting oneself in anothers shoes, if Igor could not secure a scarce resource, he would rather destroy it than let it slip away.


    Simrly, if the girl named Lise refused Annans invitation, then Annan would no longer treat her as a cute little girl but would purely see her as a scarce resource.


    One can be gentle and kind to a little girl, but when dealing with a scarce resource, one only needs to make the optimal decision.


    Perhaps sensing danger, the white-haired little girl retreated even more, her lips pouting in distress, tears nearly spilling over.


    She looked around, then suddenly burst into tears and lunged toward one of them


    Daddy!

 Chapter 189: The Concentration of Wicked Women and Wicked Men

    Chapter 189: The Concentration of Wicked Women and Wicked Men


    Ashe stared dumbfounded at the little girl clinging to his leg, responding to everyone with a bewildered gaze.


    Hey, shes calling you daddy, does that make you the hero whos going to save her?


    Harvey actually remembered the joke Ashe had used to fob them off earlier.


    It was Igor who vaguely started to catch on and immediately scoffed: Ashe, I didnt expect you to have such a big kid But this isnt the Blood Moon, so I can sincerely congratte the two of you on your reunion.


    Thats not it! Ashe protested, Look, I have ck hair, she has white hair, how could we possibly be rted by blood?


    That just shows your gic material was defeated, Igor saidnguidly.


    The little girl was crying so hard that her snot was all over the ce, sticking to his trousers, she looked up pitifully at Ashe: Daddy, dont you want me anymore?


    Im not your daddy!


    No, you are my daddy! Waaah, daddy doesnt want me!


    If it were his nephew back home, Ashe would have long since disciplined the brat with a serving of Braised Pork with Rattan


    1


    . But looking at this face, which was a mess from crying yet still endearingly cute, the fist he had clenched softened again.


    If I had been this cute when I was little, I probably wouldnt have gotten a spanking for stealing money, during spring outings everyone would have fought to be on my team, and girls would have tried to get my attention by deliberately pulling down my pants


    This will do.


    Ashe looked towards Annan, noticing that Annan was examining their father and daughter interaction with an amused look.


    Considering Heath is now my vassal, if she wishes to be your vassal, she naturally counts as mine too, Annanmanded, Shake hands with her.


    From now on, please address me as Ashe.


    After correcting the form of address, Ashe looked down at Lise, extending his hand towards her, Come on, be good. Life is like this, you always get bullied by bad women out of the blue.


    This time Lise did not resist, instead, she grasped Ashes index and middle finger with her palm.


    Annan pulled out a purple handgun from his embrace, aiming it at the spot where their hands were sped tight.


    Ashe, make her two offers. First, she must obey you for 101 days; second, she is not to leave your side for 101 days. She looked at Lise: Lise, you can also make two offers to him, whatever you want, so that the Contract can be established.


    Ashe could only honestly say, For the next 101 days, you must obey me.


    Lises crystal-clear eyes gleamed with a hint of slyness: But Daddy, you have to listen to me too.


    Whoosh!


    Annan shot out a stream of purple light, which turned into a chain binding both of their hands tightly, the shining purple marks spreading all the way to their hearts.


    Great, you listen to me, and I listen to you; wont this turn into an infinite recursive loop?


    Ashe continued, For 101 days, you are not to leave me.


    I wont leave Daddy, Lise said with tears turning toughter, But Daddy, you have to protect me well!


    Purple Shot Bullets surged out again, inscribing the second vow on the backs of Lise and Ashes hands.


    Good, Annan looked at Cleos: Now that all People from the Exotic Lands are under my control, there are no problems, right?


    Theres nothing left owing between us. Cleos crossed her arms, her tone serious, though her swollen eyes detracted from her authority: Hurry up and go, we still need to take photos.


    By the name of Dn, I will not fail your trust, Annan said with augh, his hands on his hips: I hope you achieve your desired ranking in the Weaving Festival.


    Butler Banjeet snapped his fingers, and a staircase of frost quietly formed, extending to the ceiling. Annan said to them, From this moment on, you are no longer People from the Exotic Lands, but Temporary Operators for the Funeral Firm.


    Come along, I have already prepared clothes and food for you.


    Yes!


    Lise suddenly rubbed her face against Ashes clothes, smearing her snot and tears all over, then dashed over to grab Annans hand, following behind the youngdy like a little shadow. Ashe watched, jaw dropping, as the little Drama Queen clung to their boss, She, shes not very scared


    Harvey patted his shoulder and said, Why didnt you let her speak first when signing the Contract just now? That way, even if she made an unreasonable demand, you could have refused. Now, with those two vows just taken, you might really have to devote your life to her.


    Igor walked past him, sighing deeply: Even a little girl weve just met can see at a nce that youre the easiest one among us to deal with.


    At that moment, Lise, leading Annan by the hand at the front, turned her head to look back. The corners of her mouth curved slightly upward, herrge eyes squinting into a crafty arc as she winked at Ashe and beckoned, Daddy,e here quickly!


    There was no doubt that her pitiful plea had been a ruse, merely to lower Ashes guard!


    First, its the Eternal Cmity with luck beyond reason, followed by the Elves archer who cries while firing arrows, then the Purple Moth, the Leader of the criminal organization we sold and then took back, and now even a little girl is trying to extract whatever value is left of me


    Ashe couldnt help but hold his forehead: Is the concentration of bad women tonight a bit too high?


    On the outskirts of Kaimon City in the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    By now, Freya had dressed herself, and she had changed Selina into clean clothes. She looked at this thin, doll-like girl with eyes full ofpassion. A circle of blood-light-forged shackles was tightly ced around Selinas neck, dering her status as a foreigner.


    Do you still feel cold? Would you like anotheryer of clothing?


    Thank you, sister, Selina said with a pleasing, humble smile. Its much better now, no need to trouble you.


    Its no trouble at all


    Freya,e out for a moment, Adras voice came from outside.


    Freya looked at Selina, only to find the doll girls eyes moist with tears, her gaze conveying fear and longing. Yet her crystal lips trembled slightly, and she said not a word.


    Bewitchers heart nearly melted. She adjusted the position of themp and arranged Selina into a morefortable position, Ill step out for a moment, Ill be right outside, dont worry.


    Mm, the doll girl nodded vigorously: Ill wait for you.


    Freya left the tent and walked with Adra to the riverbank a little further away and asked, Whats wrong?


    Its time to notify the Church, Adra said, crossing her arms. Youve seen the cor of blood-light, too. Shes one of the People from the Exotic Lands, just like the Invaders who caused the 422 Incident. Shes a source of cmity!


    Shes just a poor person who fell into the Virtual Realm Passage while escaping! Freya retorted with passion. She couldnt possibly be a spy from another kingdom. Who would send a girl who cant move without help, devoid of her limbs, to explore the Outer Realm?


    Who knows if what she says is true or not


    But the state of her body doesnt lie; youve seen it, too. There definitely exists a country thats barbaric and ignorant enough to treat limbless girls as sacred and to see dolls meant for maniption as statues Shes escaped from that hell, how can we just send her back there?


    The Church might send her to a Nursery


    Adra, have you ever seen even one child with a physical or intellectual disability in a Nursery?


    Adra fell silent. In the Blood Moon Kingdom, infants born with disabilities had no right to breathe. Children who became disabledter could have their limbs restored with the help of a Medic, but Selinas limb wounds had be round and smooth like jade, beyond what a Medic could address.


    So, what do you n to do? Fit her with mechanical prosthetics?


    Not now, shes too young. Mechanical prosthetics would greatly restrict her growth


    What do you mean?


    Adra suddenly grabbed Freyas shoulders. Youre not thinking of raising her, are you?


    Freya averted her gaze. But she needs to be cared for


    Shes a person, a minor, not a cat or dog! Adra hissed, pressing her voice through clenched teeth. Weve encountered People from the Exotic Lands and kept silent, thats one thing; citizens arent obliged to pursue them. But raising a minor is different, even raising a minor from the Exotic Lands, it would vite the Bloodline Prohibition Act. Only Nurseries under the Church have the right to raise minors!


    And have you passed the certification for fostering? Have you interned at a Nursery? Ordinary people who want to work at a Nursery have to go through a series of training and examinations to get certified. Not just anyone can raise a child! What makes you think you can raise a minor when you cant even take care of yourself?


    I will learn.


    Why cant you see reason! Adra was on the verge of insanity. Youre a Bewitcher, youre only supposed to entice men. Howe I never knew Bewitchers could be drawn to girls too?!


    This is Destiny.


    Adra was taken aback.


    Freya said earnestly, It just so happens we came across her, it just so happens Selina is a person from the Exotic Lands who needs care, it just so happens that most people in the Blood Moon Kingdom are unfriendly toward her Its not that Im being overly kind, but here in the Blood Moon, only I can save her.


    If I do nothing, she will die. The Bewitcher spoke softly. My heart is so fragile that I cant bear even a bit of guilt.


    Adra sighed. She felt like she had sighed more in these days than she had in the past decade.


    But if someone reports you, you will be breaking thew.


    Whats there to fear, its not my first time breaking thew


    I cant pretend I didnt hear that, youngdies.


    A weathered voice suddenly came from nearby. They shuddered and slowly turned their heads.


    With the moon dim, all they could see was a tall man in a Blood Mad Hunter uniform appearing on the opposite riverbank.


    What else have you done against thew? the Hunter asked amiably. If you confess voluntarily now, Sin Hunters Hall has a discount. With a 30-day detention, you get 15 days off.


    I does downloading pirated videos count? Freya said as she backed away, then suddenly rushed into the tent to pick up Selina. But as she came out, she saw the Hunter standing in front of the tent.


    Under the dim Moonshadow, he looked like a king who ruled the night, a demon trampling on life, his crimson eyes the brightest light. A strong sense of oppression came over them; Freya could barely resist, but Adra had already copsed in fear on the river pebble road.


    I received a notice from the Church, said the Hunter, looking at the doll-like girl in the Bewitchers arms wearing a Blood Moon Cor, saying that People from the Exotic Lands havee through the Virtual Realm Passage to the Blood Moon Kingdom She does seem quite pitiable


    Shes not a spy from the Exotic Lands! Freyas voice trembled, tightly protecting Selina. Theres no need


    Of course, theres no need.


    The Hunter smiled and said, Just a moment ago, the Virtual Realm Passage upstream dissipated. Even if there were any contingencies set by a Sorcerer from the Exotic Lands on her, theyre now rendered useless.


    Freyas eyes lit up. Then


    But ording to thew, People from the Exotic Lands should die.


    The Hunters hand rested on the hilt of his sword, and his voice suddenly turned cold. Selina seemed to sense the dire threat and fearfully snuggled closer within Freyas embrace.


    Freya thought of running, but her legs were so weak they wouldnt move; not copsing was already a testament to the courage left behind by some Cult Leader.


    Is this cycle of the Blood Moon really so barbaric and cruel? Freya closed her eyes. Maybe I should have left back then too


    Interesting, the Hunterughed. Even if I dont kill her, she wont survive on her own. The Nursery wont ept someone from the Exotic Lands without a Chip imnted, and its illegal for ordinary people to foster a minor. She has no means to live independently, and within the vast Blood Moon Kingdom, theres no ce for her.


    I will take care of her.


    Even if I dont arrest you, can you guarantee youll hide her well? Wont your neighbors, yourndlord notice anything? Your kindness ismendable, but your good deed is just an impulse.


    So we should just watch her die?


    Theres another way.


    Suddenly the Hunter reached out, snatching the doll-like girl from the Bewitchers arms.


    That is for me to take care of her.


    Freya was stunned. She exchanged a nce with Adra, and both of the well-informed college women had the same thoughtpedophilia!


    Dont misunderstand, the Hunter seemed to know what they were thinking. My work keeps me away from home most of the time; Ill likely hire someone to take care of her. If youre willing, you can alsoe and look after her, and at the same time ensure that Im not mistreating her.


    Arent you afraid of being reported?


    Im not afraid, the Hunter chuckled. Because I am the Blood Mad Hunter, not a powerless college student.


    Bewitcher wanted to say more, but at this moment, her friend softly called out, Freya.


    Freya looked at Adra and saw fear and pleading in her eyes. She was struck by a realization that she could no longer be willful; she couldnt drag Adra into the Whirlpool because of her own stubbornness.


    Freya sighed and asked, But I still dont understand. Youre not only the Blood Mad Hunter but also likely of the sacred bloodline, right? Adopting a minor from the Exotic Lands vites multiplews Why would you do this?


    It wasmon knowledge within the Blood Moon Kingdom that the sacred bloodline was the mostw-abiding and the Moonshadow the kindest. However, the Blood Mad Hunter before Freyapletely shattered this perceptionhe dared to actively trample the rules set by the Blood Moon Sovereign.


    Why indeed Im also searching for the answer.


    The Hunters tone was somewhat elusive: Perhaps its because I know the sacred bloodline has its limits, so I need to surpass it. Or maybe Ive been influenced by that man too.


    He looked at the doll-like girl he was holding: Kid, Im your Guardian now, how about introducing yourself?


    Selinas expression was quite grim. She had managed to charm that foolish woman with difficulty, and once settled, manipting her to rebuild the Four Pirs Cult here would not be a hard task. But this man was much more difficult to deal with, and Selina vaguely felt that although he was looking at her, his gaze seemed to be chasing an illusion she knew nothing about.


    Damn it, first there was Ashe Heath and now this Hunter. The concentration of bad men tonight is just too high, isnt it?


    Selina Bright, she said, trembling.


    Just then, the Blood Moon broke through the clouds, and the crimson moonlight illuminated the Hunters weathered face and his gray-white hair.


    I am Gerard Wessminster, Hunter Number 307791, the Hunter said. Pleased to meet you, Selina. I have a feeling well get along just fine.


    Footnote:<ol start="1"><li>


    Braised Pork with Rattan():


    This is a colloquial metaphor in Chinese culture, referring to the act of spanking childrens buttocks with a rattan cane.</li></ol>

 Chapter 190: Outsiders Among Us

    Chapter 190: Outsiders Among Us


    Have we transmigrated to some formidable Kingdom?


    Ashe pressed himself against the floor-to-ceiling ss, overlooking the city that never slept below. A dim moon hung in the night sky like a dulled jade te, powerfully asserting that they had lost their chance to participate in the live-action adventure of the Blood Moon Tribunal.


    Skyscrapers towered, neon lights dangled high above, and the self-driving cars on the highwaysforgive Ashes limited science fiction vocabrywere like a tightly programmed collective. The distance between each vehicle was consistent, their speeds nearly identical. When one car veered off into a branch road, another swiftly took its ce. There were no traffic lights or pedestrian crossings on the roads, yet the vehicles seemed to possess a superior ability to self-manage.


    Moreover, countless drones shuttled through the night. They, too, were meticulously nned, navigating the skies with efficiency and speed, even capable of point-to-point servicesas they had just witnessed when a drone suddenly zipped into their room, dropped off a few pairs of underwear, and left just as quickly.


    Because Harvey preferred briefs, Ashe liked boxer shorts, and Igor preferred to gomando, but only briefs were provided here.


    Upon hearing their needs, the young Butler Banjeet said, I will fulfill your requirements as soon as possible. They hadnt expected, however, that as soon as possible would mean new underwear delivered right after their shower.


    It was then that Ashe and hispanions discovered a delivery hatch in the room reserved for drone entry, just the right size to allow a drone to pass through but too narrow to stick an arm into.


    Compared to the grandeur of the cityscape, it was precisely these inconspicuous architectural features and integrated services, these heartwarming little designs, that filled the three foreign workers with trepidationhad the productivity here flourished to the point where one could save even thest minute of receiving a delivery?


    If Ashe had to choose one word to describe the city, it would be alive.


    This city was like a living machine, operating with precision and efficiency, everything fast yet orderly, like a skilled conductor leading an orchestra, where every note fits perfectly, without any superfluous noise, everything so pleasing to the ear.


    Ashe initially thought Blood Moon Kaimon City was impressive, butpared to the city beneath his feet, Kaimon City might as well have been dubbed death metal, not just connected to the earth, but to hell itself.


    Indeed, Ashe wasnt surveying the city from a high-rise building; quite the contrary, he was looking out from Level -51, the lowest level of the structure.


    Below the floor he stood on was not a foundation, but a Terrace.


    And beneath that Terrace was a city on ground level.


    A skyscraper that reached up to 80 stories tall faced Ashes Level -51 spot with less than 100 meters of clear space between them. Ashe had observed this scene from the car earlier, feeling as if stctites were staring back at him, or as if the sky and earth were locked in a kiss.


    This was a fantasy city so mad it made one tremble; the ground level was a regr city, but the second level was an inverted citywith all buildings constructed facing downward, the ground of the second level was actually at the highest point.


    Hopefully, the corpse management system here is a bit more rxed Harvey, swinging his recently healed left arm and sucking on Moon Sugar,zily said from his seat: Civilizations that know how to utilize corpses are the good ones.


    No wonder those Red Caps, who seemed like the security forces, let us off so easily.


    Igor, watching the drones traverse the night sky, said, Just mount guns and cannons on those machines, and they would be sufficient to encircle and ughter amon Sorcerer legion. The automated aerial security system, still under research in Blood Moon Kingdom, is already a reality here.


    Unless a Level 3 or higher Virtual Realm Passage is opened by Sorcerers from the Sanctuary leading a Hunting Festival, its impossible to create any ripples in this Civilized Kingdom.


    To them, we whoe from a Level 2 Virtual Realm Passage are but lowly pawns. Though considered evil outsiders that must be eradicated, were at most seen as cockroaches, not even worthy of being called centipedes.


    At this point, Igor couldnt help but feel a bit resentful: In such a well-regted Civilized Kingdom, if we manage to hide for three days until the countdown disappears, well definitely find a way to be official citizens here, enjoying social benefits, instead of being forced to be that womans hundred-day ves


    The social welfare system in Blood Moon Kingdom is actually quiteprehensive, Ashe suddenly said. The only requirement is the imntation of a neck chip. If Blood Moon were willing to waive your punishments, but on the condition that you get the chip imnted again, would you be willing?


    No, Harvey spread his hands. The Research Institute has a monopoly on the corpse industry. Small operators like me cant survive. Even if it wasnt for escaping from prison, Id definitely leave the internallypetitive Red Ocean of Blood Moon Ah, where exactly is the Blue Ocean of corpses that belongs to me?


    I dont like to answer hypothetical questions, Igor said calmly.


    Although theres no evidence, I feel that this Civilized Kingdom may not be as great as it seems to our eyes, Ashe picked up a cream-filled cookie from the snack te. If everyone here really lived and worked in peace and contentment, why would the Four Pirs Cult here be more prosperous than the one in Kaimon City?


    Have you not considered that this could be due to a significant gap in the capabilities between the leaders of the two organizations? Igor replied disdainfully.


    Moreover, being employed by Annan isnt entirely bad, Ashe continued. Being used isnt scary; whats scary is not being of use. Even if we, as you say, Bewitcher, could slowly assimte into this world from the bottom up, how long would that take? Would the risk cost be high? Can a group of penniless outsiders really find their footing in a well-organized Civilized Kingdom? Im afraid even sleeping under a bridge would get us chased away for affecting the citys appearance.


    Annan knows the advantages of our Race, advantages even were not aware of. She doesnt just know them; shes even willing to pay a price to utilize those advantages Igor, if I were to discover a Talent you have in a certain Magical Faction, and the price was for you to lick me thoroughly without dead angles for the next hundred days, would you be willing?


    As I said, I dont like answering hypothetical questions, Igor replied coldly. Besides, I couldnt pay that price. At most, after three minutes Id probably die from severe dehydration due to vomiting caused by intense nausea.


    While Ashe said that, everyone understood the subtextthese hundred days werent just about Annan using them; they could also use Annan.


    With the help of Annan, a native, not only could Ashe and the others quickly integrate into this world, but Annan would also help them uncover unknown values they were not even aware of.


    Even if Annan took arge share or even all of the value they provided, at least they would know their unique Talents. It was akin to receiving vocational training, though at the cost of selling themselves into servitude.


    But dont forget who sold us to the Four Pirs Cult as Sacrifices.


    Harvey abruptly stretched his left arm, his bones making a crisp sound, clearly healed. The habitualziness on his face was gone. Narrowing his eyes slightly, his dark visage took on the coldness befitting Kaimon Citys premier killer and a Controller.

 Chapter 191: Calamity Walker

    Chapter 191: Cmity Walker


    Im not fond of adorning my speech with words like revenge, grudges, or hatred. Cowards use literary embellishments to mask their ipetence, linguistically deconstructing their own fury But now, as a Necromancer in the Exotic Lands, I have neither past nor future. Corpses are not just my medium; they are also my destiny.


    The Necromancer spoke with a chill in his voice, I care nothing for long-term benefits. My mood is the sole standard for my actions.


    Its quite clear, considering your daily indulgence in Moon Sugar, that youre intent on living a short life, Igor raised an eyebrow. Are you plotting revenge against Annan?


    Perhaps, Harvey smacked his lips, biting on his knuckle. It mostly depends on how I feel at the moment. If I run out of sugar, just a touch of resentment might be enough to ignite my icy stream of fire By the way, the night I left Shattered Lake Prison, I vowed to turn all those who aspired to be my superiors into adorable subordinates of my liking.


    Im not telling you this to invite you to join my ns for vengeance a hundred days in advance, just hoping that when the timees, youll at least stand aside. I dont want to engage with you. Youre not only troublesome but I genuinely dont want to.


    Ashe blinked, Honestly, Im a bit touched. After all, the first time we met, you discussed how my livor mortis could be made to look prettier


    At this, Harvey was no longer sleepy. If you let me prepare, I promise that no matter when you die, your body will bloom with beautiful ck roses


    Worry not, Necromancer, Igor replied coldly. I wont oppose you, nor will I join your foolish quest for revenge. I wont deny that I still harbor resentment, but if Annan can make amends in theing days, I might be able to let go of this minor discord.


    After all, emotions are the least reliable thing. Even sworn enemies can turn into Igor paused, then abruptly changed the subject, Speaking of which, Harvey, arent you worried that this room might be bugged? Your deration of revenge could have already been overheard by Annan.


    Ah, thats right, Im done for, Harvey smacked his head, It seems I really have had too much Moon Sugar


    What about you? Igor turned to Ashe, Do you want revenge on Annan?


    Youre asking me to speak ill of someone behind their back, fully aware we could be listened in on? Ashe retorted, but then tilted his head, pondering, To be honest, Im more curious than vengeful.


    Curious?


    Curious about how she will use us, Ashe said. Being a chess yer allows one to control their own Destiny, but even as a mere pawn, cant one still admire the grandeur of the yers strategies up close?


    But she first sold you to the Four Pirs Cult and then used trickery to force you into a ve Contract. Do you not hold any resentment?


    There might be some resentment, but it dissipated quite a bit when the Butler bought me boxers, Ashe sighed, I admit Im a man of weak will, easily swayed by small kindnesses. Frankly, Im now worried that Annan might try to seduce me with beauty tricks


    Igor snickered at that, If Fernand Snow heard you calling yourself an honest man, hed be livid enough to crawl out of the sixthyer of hell.


    So, youre not nning on taking revenge? Harvey asked.


    If I were to seek revenge, it wouldnt be for the grievances of the first day, Ashe said, looking out at the neon-lit night scene, but for the disappointments umted over the following 101 days.


    As for that Contract, I never cared much about it.


    Ashe turned his head to look at them, Do you really think a mere Contract can bind me?


    Hearing such a brazen statement, Igor instinctively wanted to scoff, but as he looked at Ashes face, somehow bright, somehow shadowed, he found himself at a loss for words, as if overpowered.


    Was it because of the persuasive power that came with the Cult Leaders notorious past?


    Was it because this Prison Escapee possessed a power that couldnt be ignored?


    Or was it because he hade to deeply understand that this man named Ashe Heath was the most terrifying among them?


    The malice wrapped under that human skin could be a wind that sweeps everything before it, turning the windmill of cmity


    I am indeed a national-level master of backing out, a professional touch fish, an annual subscriber to thepany Restroom, a tinum sry thief. Im no good at working, but Im the best at taking a break, Ashe saidnguidly. To think a mere Contract would make me work, youre really underestimating me.


    Igor lightly pped himself.


    But Ashe, besides the 101-day Contract, you also have a lifetime Contract with that little girl, Harvey reminded. Are you ready to be a dad?


    At this, Ashes face darkenedby now he knew all too well why the little girl Lise had sought him out; she had targeted him because of his soft heart, boldly making those two outrageous vows.


    Someone like Annan or Igor, who grew up eating the bread of sorrows, would never Sign such an absurdly tyrannical Contract with her. It was only Ashe, already ustomed to being squeezed by unscrupulous corporate Contracts, who was taken in by her cuteness and didnt react in time, ending up thoroughly trapped.


    Annan was willing to let Ashe Sign a Contract with Lise because she didnt want to shoulder two extra burdens. Although she could have Lise not make excessive demands, naturally, the fewer Contract promises, the better.


    Igor looked at Harvey strangely, You still dont know the meaning of being a dad?


    I do, Harvey shrugged. But isnt it fun to tease Ashe about it?


    Watching Ashes frustrated expression, Igor coughed and said nonchntly, The Contract system here is different from the one under the Blood Moon, but Annan wouldnt use any particrly grand Ritual for it. At most, it might bind a Two Wings Sorcerer. If you give me some time to study, perhaps I could


    Knock knock.


    The Butler boy opened the door and said politely, Miss invites you to discuss in the hall. If youd like to Rest for the evening, it can be postponed until tomorrow.


    I dont know if I have to sell my body or my Soul next, but I certainly cant sleep, Igor said coldly. Lead the way.


    He thought for a moment and decided not to make any light promises to Ashe just yetRule Six for a Con Artist: dont reveal your hand before the deal is done.


    Unless its a client you want to deceive, dont give away hope too lightly.


    Following the Butler, Ashe wasnt thinking about the Destiny thaty ahead.


    The reason he so quickly epted his new identity and was willing to ept Annans temporary leadership was not just because of the traditional adaptation skill of in for a penny, in for a pound, but also because he suddenly acquired a strange new upational Trait


    upation: Cmity Walker/Social Idler


    upational Traits: Normal state Luck Check +5, critical moments Luck Check -50, more likely to trigger mysterious events, more likely to encounterplications, more likely to be observed by Destiny, more likely to trigger major failures. The appetite of the spirit is reduced, feeding requirements decreased by 50%.

 Chapter 192: Is It Only Ashe? Only Ashe? Only Ashe?

    Chapter 192: Is It Only Ashe? Only Ashe? Only Ashe?


    Cmity Walker!


    Though the name carries an aura of sinister madness, its effect was almost like Ashe challenging Freyaexhrating, followed by certain death. A mere +5 to luck isnt much, but at critical moments, its as if luck plummets to -50.


    Winning is like gaining a tiny piece of candy, losing is like losing an entire factory, akin to the losses one can suffer in the stock market.


    In addition to that,  more likely to trigger mysterious events, more likely to encounterplications, more likely to be observed by Destiny, more likely to trigger major failures. In short, it means being more prone to misfortune, and once misfortune strikes, a -50 to luck, a perfectbo as if Bewitcher hadunched an attack with both hand and mouth.


    If Ashe had a stable life, even just a normal family, he could somewhat counterbnce the disadvantages brought by his upational Traits.


    After all, a -50 to luck seems daunting, but it actually requires triggering a critical moment as a prerequisite. Therefore, the method to avoid it is simplejust as moral ckmail requires a target with morals, if Ashe lived a calm and uneventful life, even the lowest luck would merely affect his Probability of Eating Waces Spray.


    1


    However, Ashe doesnt have a stable life, not even a home.


    He even doubts if sleeping under a bridge would, due to his upational Traits, lead to non-stop encounters with robberies/gang wars/serial killers/Bewitcher hunts/Sorcerer invasions from Exotic Lands and other such events throughout the night.


    Hence, for Ashe, the option of blending in from the bottom of this Kingdom carries an exceedingly high risk. Finding a ce to live, looking for a job, even searching for Sorcerer resourcesall these tasks are extremely troublesome to begin with. Add to that a -50 to luck, and Ashe feels like everyone he meets is bound to be a shady middleman.


    Annans hundred-day Contract, while restricting Ashes freedom, also ensures his safetythe very first use stiptes that the master must protect the ve.


    With Annan acting as a mediator, Ashe could at least safely navigate the perilous newbie phase. He didnt believe that bad luck was like lightning specifically targeting him; rather, it must be akin to a fifty-meter radius event-level Map st centered on him. This would inevitably drag others, such as Igor and Annan, into the fray, at least allowing him to share the misfortune. Should anything happen, he wouldnt be the only one facing the consequences.


    It seemed likely that the negative status of Cmity Walker was nted when Selina bumped into him, followed by two severe incidents: Annan taking advantage of a crisis and the young girl Lises cute but deceitful scam. The +5 to luck hadnt shown its face yet, but the -50 to luck was indeed exceptionally potent.


    As these thoughts crossed his mind, they arrived in the living room.


    Annans ce appeared to be arge t design, with the entire 51st level below ground constituting her home. The living room alone was easily over a hundred square meters. As Ashe and the others arrived, they spotted several mechanical spiders returning to their web nests to recharge.


    As soon as he entered, Ashe noticed these mechanical spiders cleaning. There was no need for further description; the advantages of such spider machines were evident to the naked eye: extremely flexible, not missing any cleaning dead spots, and offering three-dimensional thoroughness.


    There were no signs of other servants, suggesting that the daily cleaning was managed entirely by these mechanical spiders.


    Considering the unmanned drone delivery systems and the advancedwork of automatic vehicles outside, it seemed that manualbor had lost its exploitative value in this ce.


    Although it was a Sorcerer-led nation, the level of development here, both macro and micro, seemed toprehensively outshine the Blood Moon Kingdom. Ashe couldnt help but consider the possibilitywas the Blood Moon truly the most barbaric and underdeveloped Sorcerer civilization?


    Could his transmigration have started him off in hell?


    Please, take a seat, Annan, already waiting for them at the end of a long table, invited. She had changed into a set of purple silk pajamasAshe felt he could already guess the color of this womans underwear. The white-haired young girl Lise sat next to her, holding a cup of milk and wearing cute bunny pajamas, her eyes bright and lively.


    That was to be expected; during the one-hour car journey from the outskirts, where the Four Pirs Cult was located, to the downtown area, only Lise had enjoyed a sound sleep. Ashe and the other two had merely taken turns resting their eyes.


    Butler Banjeet stood by, serving with a demeanor that belied his youthful appearance; he exuded the steadiness of a seasoned butler well over sixty.


    On the tabley four aluminum rings with a metallic luster, each engraved with numbers from 1 to 12, exuding a high-tech vibethreerge and one small.


    You can wear it on any finger, the method is to put it on and then give it a twist, Annan said while filing her nails. These are thetest Gospel Rings from Salome, avable in starry gray, matte ck, and sparkling blue. If you have a preferred color, you can mention it now and switch within seven days. The numbers on the rings are just to indicate time, theyre decorative.


    Gospel Ring? Igor examined the ring closely with interest.


    Thats right, just as you are thinking, Annan confirmed. Once you put it on, youll be able to open the Gospel. Most of your questions can be answered through the Gospel.


    An eager Lise had already put on her ring and decisively gave it a twist upon hearing this. Ashe and the others exchanged nces and followed suit.


    The next moment, four distinct books appeared before them: Lises was a crystal cover emitting a rainbow luster; Harveys seemed to be bound in white bone, emitting a misty gray vapor; Igors was dazzling with golden light


    Ashes book was the most peculiarwhile the others had covers of solid colors or various runes, his showed an inverted hooded figure holding a book to cover their face, shrouded in mystery.


    Annan couldnt help but take a second nce at Ashes book, but quickly lost interest. Look at your Gospel and mentally say mine.


    Ashe did as instructed, and the Gospel immediately unfolded, listing rows of information:


    Ashe Heath


    Current Points: 0


    Points avable this month: 0


    Current Ranking: None


    Eh?


    Ashe turned to look and saw Igor and Harvey with expressions of shock. Ashe felt a bit odd; the design wasnt much different from a Chip Holographic Screenwas it really that surprising?


    Annan, Im number 10 on the Azura Beauty Ranking! Lise eximed excitedly.


    Ashe blinked in surprise.


    Two Wings Necromancy Ranking  Azura Sub-Ranking first ce. Harvey spoke somberly: It seems that the Necromancy Faction isnt that developed here, for me to be in first ce


    Wait, Harvey, when did you be Two Wings? Ashe suddenly noticed a detail: You were still a One Wing sorcerer during the Blood Moon Tribunal!


    My umtion was actually enough a while ago. During the days of escaping from prison in the Virtual Realm, I absorbed enough arcane energy and sessfully made a Breakthrough to the Gold Tier in the Necromancy Faction Realm. Then, by promoting my Lifeline Spirit to Two Wings, I smoothly entered the Time Continent. Harvey shrugged: Even a Necromancer who has just been promoted to Two Wings like me is ranked first here Sigh, I feel like Ive arrived in a cultural desert.


    Isnt being first a good thing? Igor raised his eyebrows: Two Wings Mind Ranking  Azura Sub-Ranking second ce, Azura Beauty Ranking fifth ce The beauty ranking aside, but to think that theres a Mind Sorcerer at the Two Wings level with a higher Faction Realm than me here. If this were at the Blood Moon, I might already be thinking about hiring you to assassinate that colleague.


    How strange you are. If someone is stronger than you, shouldnt you be thinking about how to surpass him with real strength?


    Isnt spending money to assassinate him also real strength? Resources, connections, power, intelligence, these are the real strengths of a Mind Sorcerer; arcane energy is just a trivial part of it.


    After some thought, Harvey actually agreed with Igors twisted logic: Thats also true, after all, corpses count as my strength too, arcane energy alone is not enough to summarize everything about me


    As they were talking, they suddenly realized they were missing a noisy voice.


    Both turned to look at Ashe: Ashe, what is your ranking?


    Me, oh me, Ashe said dismissively: This is very important confidential information, how can I just reveal it carelessly like you two


    Turn your my pages here and let me see. Annan said.


    In an instant, Ashe, along with the others, did so. Lise also obediently turned her book around, and Annan, after a nce, confirmed that the name on it was indeed Lise and that the ount had zero Points, thus dispelling thest shred of doubt he had about this mysterious little girl.


    At that moment, Ashes page was also fully exposed to Igor and Harveys view.


    Igor feigned surprise and bellowed loudly:


    Ah, my dear Ashe, do you not have a ranking at all?


    Can it be that only Ashe has no ranking? Only Ashe? Only Ashe!?


    Its just like Ashe to have something so embarrassing to hide, definitely cant let everyone find out how shameful this is


    Ashes mouth twitched with irritation. That damn Bewitcher Igor is one thing, but even Harvey, who usually has the expression of a dead fish, wasughing as if high on Moon Sugar, his shoulders shaking so hard he was nearly flinging his pajamas off.


    Harvey, during our escape from prison, its clear who was dragging their feet, who was cking off. The conclusion is pretty obvious now.


    Indeed, indeed, hahaha. Sorry, Ashe, I really cant help you, its just too hrious hahaha


    Hmph,ugh it up, Ashe resigned himself: As long as I work hard, I can definitely make it to the top!


    As long as I work hard, I can definitely get into college! Igors mouth was almost grinning to the heavens, Ah, the nostalgia. That ssmate who said those words seems to have be the ace Silver Fire Dragon at the Mud Caf.


    Ashe, dont be like that. Harvey chuckled: I assure you, if there was a Corpse Ranking, Id do everything in my power to get you to the top!


    Daddy, dont be sad! Lise clenched her little fists and said: I wont despise you!


    Do you really have to keep calling me daddy? Ashe couldnt help but say.


    Eh? But who else will promise to always protect Lise, to always listen to Lise? Lise earnestly said: I believe that even a daddy whos powerless can still protect Lise well!


    When did the duration of the Contract extend to forever


    Harvey reminded: When she made her vow, there was no mention of a time Restriction; theoretically, even after you die and are turned into a undead by me, youd still have to continue protecting her.


    Stop, stop. Annan gently tapped the table, Now that you roughly understand the significance of the Gospel, we should move on to the main topic.


    Points? Igor guessed: The higher the ranking, the more Points you get. Do you want us to give all our Points to you?


    Since I was sixteen, I have been on three or more Ranking Lists, the same number as Banjeet, Annan saidnguidly. Those Points of yours dont catch my eye.


    But your job is indeed rted to the Ranking List, rted to the Gospel.


    Annan blew on his nails: I need you to be the future number one.


    Footnote:<ol start="1"><li>


    Probability of Eating Waces Spray():


    Wace is a famous fast-food brand in China. It is rumored online that eating at Wace can cause diarrhea, turning one into a spray warrior. (Personal experience seems to confirm this.)</li></ol>

 Chapter 193: Blasphemy of the Gospel

    Chapter 193: sphemy of the Gospel


    The future number one?


    The crowd was taken aback, but Annan did not borate further. Instead, he turned to introduce the Gospel.


    The Gospel is a Boon from the Omniscient Weaver and the foundation of the Gospel civilization. The all-knowing Gospel has not been stingy with its glory, allowing us to hear the most authentic gospel, to confirm our talents, and to find our ce.


    The Ranking List is the Weavers way of spurring and rewarding the world.


    ording to statistics, there are currently a total of 3,788 Ranking Lists, including the General Ranking, Regional Sub-Rankings, Individual Rankings, and Organizational Rankings. They cover all Magical Factions and include variousmon upations and special deeds, Annan said. For example, Azuras Quest Ranking lists the firms within the Azura region that havepleted the most tasks with the best results. My Funeral Firm ranks ninth, which is considered top-tier in Azura. And then there are Heroism Rankings, Songstress Rankings, Chinese Jump Rope Rankings  even ordinary people who are not Sorcerers can make it onto a list.


    At this point, everyone couldnt help but nce at the only Sorcerer present who hadnt made any Ranking List. Using the Gospel to cover his face, he basked in silence, full of impulsive regret.


    Igor raised his hand to ask, Is there a Ranking List rted to inventing new devices, poprizing advanced tools, transforming cities, and improving the lives of citizens?


    Pioneering Inventions Rankings, Corporate Rankings, City Comprehensive Rankings, Annan nced out of the floor-to-ceiling window at the two-tiered city: Banjeet, has Azura changed a lot over the past few decades?


    Miss, sixty years ago, Azura still had dry toilets; thirty years ago, it wasnt a two-tiered city.


    The young Butler beside them let out a sigh that seemed beyond his years: As a child, I never imagined that one day I would see skyscrapers hanging upside down.


    Because thepetition on the Ranking List is fierce, every minute and every second, new inventions, new tools, and new designs are erupting from every corner of the Gospel Kingdom, quickly entering the application phase, bing reality, and transforming the world.


    Is it really because of the systemic advantage


    Although the Institute System of the Blood Moon Kingdom was quite impressive, with the immortal species dedicating themselves to research, not only ensuring that leading figures could y a role for a long time, but also allowing for a focus on fundamental research without short-term gains, the Blood Moon Kingdom was indeed a prosperous and resource-rich developed country. Otherwise, the Socialized Rearing System would not have been possible.


    Yet,pared to thepetition-embracing Gospel Kingdom, the group of vampires still seemed too conservative and traditional. Perhaps a thousand years ago, the Blood Moon Kingdom was not much different from the Gospel Kingdom, but while the former relied on the prolonged cultivation of a few immortals, thetter thrived onprehensivepetition at the societal level, making a significant gap after a millennium quite natural.


    Igor asked, The Ranking List must offer substantial rewards to make organizations and individuals take it so seriously, right?


    Points, Annan nodded. Compared to gold and silver, Points are the real currency in the Gospel Kingdom. As long as you have enough Points, you can obtain anything you want.


    Anything?


    Anything. Annan extended her hand, and the next second, a bunch of juicy grapes suddenly appeared in her palm. She took a grape with her mouth, gently biting into the juicy flesh: For example, you can use Points to get a fresh bunch of chilled grapes.


    Any material item, any spirit, any Miracle, as long as you can think of it, you can obtain it if you spend enough Points. However, there are a few Restrictions, such as not causing harm to others or engaging in illegal activities.


    But for things like extending life, treating mortal wounds, instantly moving to a target location, or obtaining a rare Quadruple wings spirit, the Gospel can still make it happen.


    Must be expensive, right?


    Exorbitantly so, Annanughed. The real purchasing power of the Points spent on these grapes could let me buy an entire grape farm. Divine Concealment,e eat grapes.


    Ashe and the others wondered whom she was calling when suddenly, a milky-yellow lizard appeared on her shoulder, with a pair of clever vertical pupils rolling around, looking quite adorable. It smacked its mouth a few times, and the bunch of grapes was left with only stems, not a single grape remaining.


    The Sorcerers couldnt see clearly how it ate!


    Scarlet Gold Dragon Lizard, Igor murmured softly.


    An endangered species? Ashe asked.


    Its not about being endangered; they simply dont exist in reality, Harvey exined. I remember its a special creature from the Time Continent. Once tamed, it can follow its master through reality and help capture fleeing spirits in the Virtual Realm. Its an extremely precious pet.


    Compared to the real-world achievements likerge t structures, Firms, and rtionships with the Red Caps, the Scarlet Gold Dragon Lizard as a Virtual Realm achievement finally made the Trespasser trio take Annans personal strength seriously. The world of Sorcerers is that simple: being formidable in reality doesnt count for much; only strength in the Virtual Realm is considered true power.


    In some ways, Sorcerers are like a group of live-action role-ying gamers, except their game abilities can also take effect in reality.


    Annan stroked the little head of the dragon lizard and said, The real use of Points is to purchase ones own Gospel, meaning intelligence and knowledge.


    For example, if you cant progress in the Magical Factions Realm, you spend Points for guidance, and the Gospel will tell you how to proceed; if your research hits a dead end, the Gospel will pinpoint the issue; if youre unaware of your own Talents, the Gospel will reveal your true potential; you can even verify if someone is lying


    Ashe, the Mudblood


    1


    who steals arcane energy, didnt seem phased, feeling that the Gospel was akin to Google. Meanwhile, Igor and Harvey werepletely astonished.


    As true Sorcerers, they understood the value of such guidance. If the Gospel were truly crafted by a Divine Master, it would mean that everyone in this kingdom has a Divine Master grandfather figure providing guidance at their side. This, this


    What is the Blood Moon Kingdompared to this? I am a Gospel man now!


    Igor asked with a trembling voice, Whats the proportion of Sorcerers here?


    Because the School Comprehensive Ranking includes factors like the healthy growth of students, the proportion of Sorcerers has been declining over the past few decades, Annan flipped through her Gospel, The current ratio is 10.19%.


    One in every ten people is a Sorcerer Harvey murmured, The Corpse resources here are of such high quality


    Although it sounds strange, dont think our sorcerers here are that impressive, Annan spread his hands and said, I imagine that in your Kingdom, you probably arent considered very powerful Two Wings sorcerers, right? Yet in our ce, where the proportion of sorcerers is very high, you can still rank first and second, which already speaks volumes.


    For the whole, the Gospel naturally has great benefits; but for the individual, the Gospel is a double-edged sword that must be used with caution.


    Self-learning ability, Ashe hit the nail on the head. If you get into the habit of seeking the Gospel whenever you encounter a problem, then your self-learning ability will only gradually decline, and eventually, youll reach a point where you cant make any progress without the Gospels guidance. Just like a house cat raised like a pig, because life is too good, in the end, it may even be chased by mice.


    Thats exactly right, Annan yed with the Dragon Lizards little ws, Our sorcerers are divided into Gospel sorcerers and Silent Sorcerers, because listening to the Gospels guidance is either zero times or countless times. Gospel sorcerers generally stop at Two Wings, and its difficult for them to make any Breakthroughs in the Faction Realm, even if the Gospel points out how they should strive.


    To be a consolidated Tri-wings, its basically only possible for Silent Sorcerers who have never listened to the Gospel even once.


    Like the Crysand Red Cap Cleos you just met, besides asking if her Fated Lover was born, she never listens to any other Gospel.


    Ashe was shocked, You can even ask about love!?


    Of course you can, its just that it often doesnt happen, Annan shrugged, For example, I currently dont have one either. The so-called Fated Lover is a Destiny Miracle where you fall deeply in love with each other at first sight, without any need for adjustment, and once you meet, you never separate. Many people dont date in their entire lives, preferring to wait for their Fated Lover, but end up waiting to death without ever meeting them.


    Ashe muttered, Theres actually such a good thing as fate assigned lovers


    Harvey said to Lise, It seems like you wont have the chance to have a mom.


    Lise nodded seriously, Compared to a mom, I feel like the probability of me having a second dad is higher


    Harvey nodded earnestly, Fair point, to be honest, indeed.


    Im telling you all this because I want you to understand that the Gospel truly has the power to grant any wish, Annan said calmly as he ced the Dragon Lizard on the table. With this understanding, you can grasp the magnitude of my n and what Im staking on you.


    The next part, not a single word must be revealed to anyone else.


    After saying this, Annans green eyes suddenly fixed intently on Ashe, making him feel both panicked and utterly confused.


    Is she staring at me because she covets my beauty? Could she be nning to get me drunk, or take advantage of me during a Ritual? Its all because 222 made me more attractive, even Freya cant stop thinking about me If the new boss wants to y by unwritten rules, should I ept or y hard to get?


    As Ashe was lost in his wild thoughts, Lise made a zipping motion across her lips: Daddy, Ill be good.


    Ashe blinked, then realized: Lise, youre also not allowed to reveal anything you hear next.


    The new boss couldnt directlymand Lise; it had to go through Ashe as a sort of router.


    Only then did Annan withdraw her gaze and asked, What do you think my Firm usually does?


    Transporting half-finished Corpses.


    Human trafficking.


    Biological transport.


    The three of them almost instantly gave the same answers. Annan raised an eyebrow: This is indeed one of the main operations of the Firm To avoid any misunderstandings, let me exin.


    In the various Ranking Lists that assess regional development levels and the abilities of rulers, which include but are not limited to Internal Affairs List, Innovation List, Security List, City Comprehensive List, talent is a very important evaluation indicator. So, what do you think should determine talent?


    Lise raised her hand: Good kids who make it onto the Ranking List like me are talents.


    Harvey and Igor turned to look at the only person present who wasnt considered a talent, the zero-star trash Ashe, who mmed the table in anger: Annan, theyre not taking your teachings seriously and are messing around. I, Ashe, am reporting them for real. I cannot stand people who touch fish during meetings!


    Indeed, only those who make it onto the Ranking List can be considered talent.


    Purple Moth blinked, surprised that before she could make a move, the People from the Exotic Lands had already started to quarrel among themselves: But not every Areas Ranking List can be filled. Theres a minimum threshold for the lists, and if the standard isnt met, no matter what, you cant get on the list. Therefore, there are many empty lists, and correspondingly, those with enough people to fill them are called full lists.


    The more full lists there are in an Area, the higher the rulers level of governance and the better the areas development. By the way, these city Ranking Lists are updated every six months, so every ruler wants to fill up the empty lists as much as possible before the evaluation deadline.


    The Con Artist quickly realized the loophole: If you lure the top talents from other Areas to your own, then


    Exactly, Annan said, fiddling with her new amethyst earring. When the location of people changes, they naturally count toward the current Areas Ranking List.


    So right before the evaluation deadline, its war for firms like ourskidnapping specific talents from surrounding Areas to the clients designated Area, using them to fill the empty lists. Youve also ridden in our work vehicles; we dont harm or kill people, we just temporarily incapacitate the talents so they cant resist, and once the evaluation is over, we release them. If possible, we even try to minimize physical contact to ensure the talents have a good short travel experience.


    I hope you dont have any misunderstandings about the Funeral Firm; we are a very serious business.


    Ashe and the others exchanged nces: experts in personal restraint, colluding with the security forces, exploiting migrant workers during times of chaos it seemed they had no misconceptions.


    With this in mind, you should understand the true nature of our firms business.


    Ding.


    Purple Moth gently scraped her earring with her nail, taking the wine ss passed to her by the young Butler Banjeet.


    Although the business is diverse, at its core, what we do is to find, study, and even exploit the loopholes in the Gospel.


    That is to say, to desecrate the Gospel.


    Footnote:<ol start="1"><li>


    Mudblood():


    A term originating from J.K. Rowlings Harry Potter novels, referring to a person born to non-magical parents or from a non-traditional lineage.</li></ol>

 Chapter 194: The Weaving Festival and the Echoer

    Chapter 194: The Weaving Festival and the Echoer


    The Gospel is a Boon from the Omniscient Weaver, a miracle beyond the reach of mortals, an omnipotent wishing machine, the foundation upon which the Gospel Kingdom operates.


    But it is, after all, just a tool.


    Even the greatest tool, weathered by the long passage of time, will eventually lose all its sanctity. To utilize a tool is to embody wisdom, and even more so, the instinct of a Sorcerer.


    If the Gospel is a spiders web spread across the nation, then the Firm is like the insects wriggling through the web, chuckled the Purple Moth. The Gospel doesnt make mistakes; its just slow.


    By transferring talent before the Ranking List is set, one can affect the hierarchical status of two cities. There are many, many rules like this that can be exploited. For instance, the Gospel does not allow us to directly obtain someones specific information and current location. However, if you ask in a roundabout way, you can still achieve your goalyou cant ask for someones location, but you can ask for the location of their car.


    The work of the Firm is to exploit known loopholes in the rules to fulfill variousmissions, Annan said, flicking the rim of his ss lightly. Its a very dangerous upation, because the Gospel doesnt make mistakes; its just slow. When it realizes that theres an unusual tremor in the web, the insolent insects that dare to defile it will meet the fate they deserve.


    Igor frowned and said, If the Gospel despises those of you who exploit loopholes, then why does it allow you to be on the list?


    Because the web still has eyes, Annan whispered. As long as there are eyes in the web, there will be a space for Firms like ours to exist. The day the Firms arepletely annihted, that will also mean the reality is about to turn into paradise.


    A paradise where everyone is involved in intensepetition, constantly striving for higher rankings? Ashe pondered and then shuddered: Sounds more like hell, doesnt it?


    I think its quite nice, Harvey interjected. The corpses of Sorcerers who died suddenly are excellent material.


    Annan looked at Igor, then pointed at Ashe: Is the environment in your Blood Moon Kingdom so harsh that even those who detestpetition can be Two Wings Sorcerers?


    Still, the same rule applies: personal actions must not escte to the level of the Kingdom, Igor said with resignation. So, we, the People from the Exotic Lands, are we just tools for you to exploit loopholes? The Contract is for 101 days, during which there is an important Ranking List assessment?


    Thats correct. Annan nodded in satisfaction. Mr. Bukin, if it were the past, I would have very much liked to invite you to join the Funeral Firm, but unfortunately, thats not possible now.


    Igors expression cooled slightly: Miss Annan, I dont think its wise to reveal your killing intent 101 days in advance.


    You misunderstand me deeply, Annan said, spreading his hands. What I mean is, by joining my n, not only will I benefit in ways that are hard to articte, but you will also transcend the ordinary and stand at the pinnacle of the world.


    Im not afraid of your retaliation, because in 101 days, you will only have gratitude towards me.


    Our goal is not the ordinary Ranking List, but the Weaving Festival that urs once every fifty years!


    Our goal is to ring the bell at Nasdaq Ashe suddenly remembered how his boss had bluntly offered him a vision when he submitted his resume. Fresh out of college, he was almost stirred by the passion, but was eventually defeated by the advanced flexible work system (no overtime pay) and the excellent learning tform (multiple roles but only one sry).


    But now they had all signed a tyrannical Contract that demanded and took without question, why was the new boss still putting effort into sweet-talking? Even with a high-handed approach, he still bothered with the forey, which was rather meticulous.


    The Gospels Ranking List, as well as the information it can exchange, are all things of the past, Annan exined. If one wishes to exchange for information about the future, not only is it costly, but its also highly likely to be unobtainableunless it pertains to security information about guests from the Exotic Lands. The Gospel has increased predictive resources for national defense needs, lowering the cost of exchanging information about you, otherwise I wouldnt be able to wee the three of you so appropriately.


    The Ranking List unveiled during the Weaving Festival is different, because that is the future that is still being woven.


    The future. Igors eyes flickered. Could it be that


    Annan said, Take for instance, if the Weaving Festival introduces the Quadruple Wings Sorcerer Strength Ranking, the ones who make it onto the list will likely not be the legendary sorcerers known to us now, but new legends who will rise and dominate the era over the next fifty years!


    Some on the list might currently be obscure apprentice sorcerers, and some may have just been born. But with the full effort of the Gospel weaving their Destiny, their futures will be fixed history, and we will be able to hear echoes from the future.


    To differentiate them from the usual chosen ones on the Rankings, those who make it onto the list during the Weaving Festival, we call them Echoersthe echoes that the Gospel sends back after observing the future.


    The Weaving Festival starts on May 10 and ends on August 10, every ten days a future Ranking List is released, making a total of ten future Ranking Lists. Unlike the usual points rewards of the ordinary lists, the future lists will offer tailored rewards for those ranked, including but not limited to Experience Orbs, rare spirits, precious Items, and even the miracle of a permanent Boon!


    Harvey had a sudden realization: If we make it onto the list, you want us to give our rewards to you?


    Annan gave a slight smile but did not immediately respond, continuing instead to exin, There is a hierarchy among the Ranking Lists, you understand, dont you?


    Everyone nodded. A national ranking undoubtedly trumped a regional one, an Organizational Ranking was greater than an Individual Ranking, a sorcerers ranking was higher than that of a non-sorcerer, and a Quadruple Wings ranking was above a One Wing ranking. In short, the harder it is to get on a list, the more prestigious it is.


    Out of the ten Ranking Lists in the Weaving Festival, aside from the tenth which is predetermined, the rest arepletely random. Thest Weaving Festival even had a Cats Cradle Ranking, Annan tapped the long table with her fingertips: Therefore, each Ranking List has hidden points to differentiate the hierarchy among the Echoers. And the Echoer with the highest hidden points will receive the Boon of the Omniscient Weaver.


    What kind of Boon?


    A wish. Purple Moths beautiful green eyes shimmered with a lively light, as she raised a finger pointing upwards: One omnipotent wish.


    To bring back the dead, eternal life, surpass the Quadruple Wings, or even transmigration through time and space!


    Igors pupils dted sharply, Harvey ceased gnawing on his finger, and Ashe squinted slightly.


    After a long silence, Lise suddenly propped her face with her hands, staring at the Scarlet Gold Dragon Lizard on the table, and said, How wonderful, Lise also has a wish to makeI seem to remember having a sister, and I really want to see her.


    The mood lightened suddenly, and Igor, caressing his ring, asked, Is this wish your goal?


    Purple Moth nodded: Thats right. I wont ask for any of the rewards you get for making the list, but that wish with the highest hidden points must be given to me.


    Ashe suddenly spoke up: How can you be so sure that well be Echoers who make it onto the future list? Aside from being single andzy, Im not really confident in other areas.


    People from the Exotic Lands, Igor said calmly. Whether or not we be Echoers has nothing to do with our current abilities, but it has everything to do with our identity as People from the Exotic Lands.


    Ding.


    Annan flicked her earring and smiled, What do you think the Gospel bases its predictions of the future on?


    The past.


    Family, environment, resources, gic heritage In reality, its notplicated. A child born into a privileged family, with loving parents adept at education, surrounded by knowledgeable and upper-ss neighborsanyone can see the advantages of their future development.


    Likewise, for someone of humble beginnings, orphaned early, timid and unassuming in appearancetheir future is equally obvious.


    The Weaving Festival is about turning the vast tapestry of the past into threads, weaving an absolutely certain, undisturbed, and inevitable future. If a person has lived in the Gospel Kingdom from the moment of their birth, even if they have not yet cried their first cry, the Gospel can weave their future with absolute certainty.


    But we are People from the Exotic Lands. Harvey looked at his finger, which was nearly bleeding, and gently licked the wound, calmly stating, The Gospel can only envelop this Kingdom. Even though the Virtual Realm Passage once briefly connected to the Blood Moon, it could not possibly know our distant pasts.


    With no sufficient past to rely on, the Gospels predictions about your futures would almost entirely be based on everything happening now. In other words


    Annans fingertips produced a Two Wings spirit in the shape of a moth, You can use the now to deceive the Gospel into weaving a more spectacr future for you.


    You are the most dangerous bugs in the web of the Gospel Kingdom.

 Chapter 195: Negotiating Life

    Chapter 195: Negotiating Life


    sphemy against the Gospel, deception of the Divine Master!


    Setting aside Igor and Harvey, the pan-Followers who grew up basking in the blood-red moonlight, even Ashe, a species with no faith to speak of that invaded from the outside, felt his temples quiver at the thoughtthis was akin to brewing trouble in the Bewitchers own house, where getting caught meant certain death!


    Though Ashe had never seen any Divine Master take action, he knew their influence on reality was immense. The chips of the Blood Moon, the Gospels of the Gospelthey were all extensions of the Divine Masters power, merely entrusted to mortals to manage.


    To the Divine Master who had controlled the Blood Moon Kingdom for over 1600 years, Ashe and hispanions prison escapes and involvement with the Blood Moon Tribunal were like insignificant insects fighting, not even worth a nce.


    But the Weaving Festival that Annan spoke of was an event that even the Omniscient Weaver paid personal attention to, and might even reward with a wishan event held in as high regard as a spring outing to a primary school student.


    Under such circumstances, Annan was prepared to involve these insects in her schemes, which was tantamount to a cockroach leaping at ones face, with their likely end being a rebirth in the Virtual Realm.


    Annan had been ready to psychologically strengthen this group of new recruits. However, after a brief moment of astonishment, instead of fear, the new recruits showed eager expressionsand the most excited of them all was Igor, whom Annan had high hopes for!


    His ears were so red they were nearly transparent, as he grabbed Ashes shoulder, his lips curving uncontrobly: Ashe, being with you really does drag one into dangerous Whirlpools.


    How is that my fault!?


    They were not ignorant of the danger, yet it was the high risk and high reward that stirred their anticipation Annan raised an eyebrow: Looks like you were quite the dangerous talents in your original kingdoms too.


    Isnt that exactly what you desire, Miss Annan?ughed Igor: What you need are us daredevils who act boldly and fear not death, right?


    Dont speak for me, you male Bewitcher! Ashe protested: And weve got three people here; not all of us need to be involved, right? I volunteer to be the Captain and supervise them.


    First off, its not three, its four, Annan said, reaching out to pat Lise on the head. Secondly, while you are People from the Exotic Lands and possess the prime foundation for exploiting loopholes, whether you can truly deceive the Gospel depends on whether my method is viablethe more participants, the higher my margin of error.


    Even though we talk about deceiving the Gospel, you still need to meet the basic conditions for deception. For instance, if one of the future Rankings is the Beauty Ranking, then among the four of you, only Lise and Bukin are likely candidates to fool the Gospel


    Lise immediately chimed in, I think Sister Bukin is much prettier than me!


    Ashe! Igor shed a sweet smile. You really need to educate your child properly.


    Yes, Lise! Ashe called out robustly, Youre being very rude. Igor is of the same generation as me; you should be calling Bukin Auntie!


    Lise pinched her face, as if she couldnt control her own mouth, Bukin, Auntie Bukin


    What if theres a Ranking List that were all unqualified for, but it has the highest hidden score? Harvey asked while biting his finger and looking at his Gospel.


    And even if we can make it onto the list, does that guarantee first ce? Being People from the Exotic Lands might give us a high chance to be Echoers, but what list we make and what rank we attain cant be precisely manipted by you, right?


    Thats correct, Annan nodded. But this hidden score isnt calcted independently; its cumtive.


    Cumtive? Igor, who had been wrestling with Ashe, paused in surprise. Are you suggesting


    As long as each of you gets on multiple Ranking Lists, your hidden scores will definitely be higher than those Echoers who can only make it onto a single list, Annan exined with a smile. Generally, people specialize in their craft, and being included on one future list already signifies you have a remarkable Talent in a certain area. Its rare to be on multiple lists.


    But you are People from the Exotic Lands. If you can deceive one future list, why not several? Like three, five, seven, or even nine?


    Igor squinted his eyes: Honestly, if its as tant as this, instead of calling it deception, Id rather call it kidnapping.


    You want to use us to kidnap the Weaving Festival and force the Divine Master to pay the ransom you want in order to maintain the credibility of the Gospel.


    Mr. Bukin, you are as cunning a rogue as I am. Annan drained his wine ss: If you were in my shoes, would you miss such a once-in-fifty-years opportunity?


    Even if the opponent is the Divine Master who governs reality?


    Even if the opponent is the Divine Master who governs reality.


    Igor took a deep breath, his face flushing with excitement: Indeed, its an irresistible temptation. Ashe, oh Ashe, it looks like I have to coborate with you once again.


    Ashe responded with resignation: No, but Igor, since when did you like me so much?


    Ah?


    Otherwise, why would you think of dragging me into this kind of risky deal first thing? The roommate who was the closest to me back in the day, when he got into a pyramid scheme, he thought of me first just like you


    But I still dont understand. Harvey asked: Since we are so important, why would you think of selling us to the Four Pirs Cult? Arent you afraid that the Four Pirs Cult will destroy us, these important pieces?


    Because she wants topletely subdue us. Igor sneered: Compared to the current employment rtionship, she would prefer us to be purely loyal to her. If it werent for her and Red Caps acting being too clumsy, we might have actually be wholly devoted to her out of gratitude.


    Theres also this. Annan fiddled with her new earring: This is what the Four Pirs Cult paid aspensation to purchase youMagus Quartz. If you die, I wont lose out, at least Ill get an earring; if you dont die, then its a win-win for me, I get the earring and I get to snatch you guys up.


    Igor looked at the amethyst earring, which was worth as much as the three of them: Whats so special about it?


    Magus Quartz is produced in the depths of the Burnsteel Abyss in Boyesia, embedded in the steelyer walls and is nearly impossible to extract. It can only be collected by the Bluebeard squadron responsible for Suppressing the Abyss under special circumstances. Its extremely rare, with an annual yield of less than three pieces.


    Mhm, Igor nodded. So ites with a permanent Miracle? Something like eternal dust repellence, moisture retention,plete sun protection?


    I think its about enhancing spirit and Miracle effects, Harvey spected.


    Its so rare, it must be quite valuable, right? Ashe affirmed confidently. Is it meant to be exchanged for an evenrger penthouse?


    Only Lise tilted her head, looking at Annan and eximed in awe, Sister, you look so pretty, and with that earring, you look even prettier! Dad, dont you think so?


    Ah? Ashe took a closer look at Annan and couldnt help but nod, Indeed, its very fetching, makes one cant help but imagine what youd look like blushing


    Annan raised her eyebrows. Mr. Bukin, please cover Ashes eyes. Ashe, allow Mr. Bukin to cover your eyes.


    Ashe, Ive told you before your gaze is too dirty


    Loosen up, my nose is getting squashed! I can cover my own eyes, why let him do it!


    Shut up, the fact that I didnt dig out your eyes and rece them with mechanical ones is already a big act of mercy from Miss Annan.


    Igor, youve turned traitor just like that!?


    Blinking, Harvey asked nkly, So, the effect of this earring is, it looks good?


    No, Annan corrected, It makes me look even better.


    Just to make you look better, you sold the three of us to the Four Pirs Cult!?


    Igor wasnt overly surprised. While suppressing Ashe, he asked, Is it because of the Ranking List?


    Yes, Purple Moth propped her chin and said, With this earring, Ive moved up to third ce on the Azura Beauty Ranking and to eighth ce on the General Ranking of beauties. If you die, or if my ns dont work out, then at least this earring will slightly make up for my losses.


    Is it guided by the Gospel? Igor inquired, Can it even tell you how to advance further?


    Of course, it cant be that direct, but if you ask how to deepen the Mind Faction Realm or how to be more beautiful, the Gospel will give you the most fitting advice based on the resources you can currently ess, Annan exined. The Gospel is the best guide.


    Ive been feeling this the whole time, doesnt the Gospel sound like the reward from Destinys Inquiry in the Virtual Realm? Ashe suddenly said.


    Thats right, but now you can enjoy simr services just by spending some Points, services that are rare finds in the Virtual Realm. Arent you starting to envy the residents of our Gospel Kingdom?


    Ashe remarked, Its like that first love you could never catch up to, now mass-produced by an evil Sorcerer into clone dolls, and you only need to spend a little money to rent a girlfriend and relive the old dreams.


    Bukin, please


    Ive already covered his mouth, Igor said. Ashe, behave yourself, or Miss Annan will stuff a sock in your mouth next.


    Wha~a~ts thi~i~s?


    Annan watched their interaction with interest, deepening her understanding of them. She didnt ask Ashe to shut up directly but had Igor do it, eager to gather more intelligence through their exchanges.


    Igor, with his handsome appearance, was the mostposed and carried himself with elegance, clearly a sessful figure in his original Kingdom, but his excessive caution sometimes led to indecisiveness; Harvey was constantly biting his finger, and based on the eavesdropped content from the dressing room, he harbored a heavy desire for revenge, a cold me lurking beneath his entric exterior.


    The only one Annan couldnt see through was Ashe. He seemedzy, slow, easygoing, with a weak rebellious spirit, clearly someone who could easily be manipted, theoretically the weakest link in this trio.


    But Annan remembered clearlyat the time of signing the contract, although it was Igor who led the negotiations and Harvey who supervised, when it came to the actual signing, they all instinctively waited for Ashe to sign first.


    The most likely reason was that they saw Ashe as expendable, waiting to see if anything happened to him after signing before they wouldmit.


    Perhaps there was another possibilitywhen facing an unpredictable future, they all subconsciously chose to rely on Ashe Heath.


    More observation is needed.


    But dont think I havent paid a price, Annan said. You can open Azuras Quest Ranking and see for yourself; the name of the Funeral Firm is no longer there. Not only did we not keep themission secret afterpletion, but we also reported to the Red Cap and led people to eradicate the Four Pirs Cult. Even if I stand on moral high ground, this kind of winning twice behavior will greatly reduce the firms rating. Banjeet and my social credit has plummeted, and no one willmission us, betrayers, again.


    For you, I have gambled the name of Dn.


    She stood up. Its gettingte, and I should head to the Virtual Realm. Breakfast is at eight in the morning; I hope you all keep a good routine. Mr. Bukin, you can stop now.


    When we open our eyes tomorrow, our firms only goal is to deceive the Omniscient Weaver.


    With that, the Purple Moth left briskly, and the Scarlet Gold Dragon Lizard leaped onto her shoulder.


    The Butler, young Banjeet, bowed slightly, handing out four ess cards, These are your room cards, each room has an en-suite bathroom, and there are snacks in the cabs. If you need anything else, you can find me in room 3. I wish you all a pleasant night.


    After Banjeet left, the Trespasser trio exchanged nces. Harvey was the first to take an ess card and stand up: Im going to explore the Virtual Realm. Ive barely umted any Gold arcane energy since I stepped onto the Time Continent.


    Same here, said Igor. I havent been to the Virtual Realm since my escape from prison; Ive almost forgotten what the reverse Golden Rain looks like.


    The Swordswomans Soul had not yet recovered, so Ashe, who had hitched a ride, naturally couldnt explore the Virtual Realm.


    However, after two consecutive days of high-intensity eventsbeing trafficked, sacrificed, signed into servitude, and joining a high-risk fraud grouphe was also extremely tired, yawning before entering his room.


    He pushed open the door and entered, not even pressing the light switch when he heard the door automatically close and lock behind him.


    Is it that smart?


    Ashe turned around and noticed a little devil had silently followed him in.


    Daddy. Lise stood by the door, blinking at Ashe. Lise hase to have a life consultation with you.


    The Werewolf character card was uploaded

 Chapter 196: Surface Father-Daughter Relationship

    Chapter 196: Surface Father-Daughter Rtionship


    Ashe had also thought about what his future children might be like.


    Dont get it wrong; he wasnt the type who fantasized about childrens names upon seeing a girl he liked. In fact, Ashe considered his imagination rather barren. When he saw a girl he liked, his fantasies about couples usually stopped at ssrooms, bedrooms, living rooms, beaches, and couples hotels But such daydreams had be scarce after starting work, where preparing for the next meeting served as the best antidote to lust.


    As the saying goes, working overtime wont help you find a lover, but it can make everyone lose theirs.


    The first time Ashe imagined having a child was when he was eight. He had been thrashed with a rattan by his father for sneaking in someputer games and secretly vowed to raise a child who could y games with him.


    As he grew older, his expectations for his children grew: they should enjoy outdoor sports, know how to date, solve the hardest math problem on the college entrance exam, be good-looking and smart, cook well, be fluent in a secondnguage, and be able to write novels or drawics


    It wasnt until Ashe started working and experienced the harshness of society and the struggles of life that he not only understood his parents strictness but also felt apologetic towards his future childsorry, my child, I cant find your mothers.


    However, the child he had hoped for was definitely not supposed to be like this.


    If you, dad, got the highest score but had to give your wish to sister Annan in the end, do you really think thats okay?


    Lise sat cross-legged on the bed, her face full of righteous indignation, lowering her voice, I feel its so unfair to you, dad!


    Dont worry, your dad is an absolute good-for-nothing. Its definitely your Aunt Bukin or Uncle Harvey who would get the highest score.


    But its still not fair! Lise swayed, her freshly tied pigtails swinging back and forth: Think about it, dad, you, Aunt Bukin, and Uncle Harvey arerades who have shared life and death. You should face difficulties together and share blessings. For a reward like the Divine Masters wish, it should be shared among the three of you, not given to a witch like Annan who profits from others misfortune and enves you!


    You were just calling her sister Annan a moment ago.


    Thats not important, Daddy. Whats important is what you think! Lise eximed, her eyes wide with fervor. Dont you want the Divine Masters wish? The Omniscient Weaver can fulfill all your desires; resurrection, transmigration, immortality, or even deification


    Can I wish that all women must wear ultra-short skirts with either ck or white stockings?


    Ugh.


    Huh? Ashe saw Lise stick out her tongue, looking like she was about to vomit. Whats wrong?


    Its nothing. Lise probably just isnt used to riding in a car, so shes a bit nauseous.


    But youve been Resting for over an hour


    Anyway, Dad, you also want to obtain the wish, right? Lise forcefully steered the conversation back on track. You wouldnt be content just giving away your wish to a wicked witch who deliberately harms you all, would you?


    If I have to say whether I want it or not, of course, I do, Ashe said, propping his chin in his hand. But I dont think I possess the qualifications or the capacity to obtain this wish.


    What qualifications do you need to make a wish?


    Think about it. If you finally get the chance to make a wish to a god, would you really just look out for yourself and make some selfish wishes? The best approach should be to make a perfect wish that benefits all beings while also bringing benefits to yourself, right? Like asking the Divine Master to bestow new technology that greatly boosts productivity, or to increase the lifespan of all the citizens of the Kingdom


    Whats so bad about being selfish!?


    Ashe stared nkly at Lise as she roared at him. The white-haired little girl no longer had the feigned innocence and sweetness on her face; instead, there was a deep, resentful anger toward the world. However, she quickly backed down, her expression returning to the usual cuteness as if the previous moment was just Ashes imagination.


    She said timidly, looking down, What Lise means is that youre not from this Kingdom, and you dont really have a sense of belonging here. When making a wish, you dont really have to consider so much. Isnt it okay to follow your hearts desires?


    Lets have an honest talk, Lise.


    Ashe spoke calmly, You can call me Daddy if you want to. Its just a title, after all. If we can maintain this faade of a father-daughter rtionship, it might put Annan at ease. Consider it a code name among colleagues.


    But I am a bit puzzled. Annan said you lost your memory, and shes not likely to be wrong, but the scheming and ambition youre disying are not traits of a child with amnesia. Or are you from a Legend Race, where even memory loss cant affect your embodiment of desire, with every pore oozing corrupt blood?


    Is there such a Race?


    Yes, the Capital Race, Ashe said with folded arms. You havent lost your memory at all. How did you deceive Annan?


    No, Daddy, youre mistaken, Lise cocked her head. I really did lose my memory. The farthest back I can remember is being caught by those ck Robe viins. I cant remember anything beyond that.


    Then you


    But I know what I must do.


    Lise looked up at Ashe, Like that old witch Annan, I want to use the identity of People from the Exotic Lands to be an Echoer. But unlike her, who can only use you and others, I want to be an Echoer myself.


    I have a wish that must be fulfilled, she said earnestly. I absolutely cannot let anyone else have it!


    Ashe blinked, Setting aside whether we can resist Annan or not, even if we could, how do you n to snatch the wish away from us?


    Thats enough, Lise held up her open hand with five spread fingers. Daddy, me, Auntie Bukin, Uncle Harvey, and the witch Annan, there are fivepetitors.


    If you, Daddy, can unite the others to firmly exclude the witch Annan, then thepetitors will be reduced to four. If its you, Daddy, who bes the Echoer with the highest hidden score, then in the end, it will be just me and you left! If I handle Daddy, then the wish is mine!


    Lise folded all her other fingers, leaving only the middle finger extended towards Ashe.


    Do you really have that much confidence that you can defeat me?


    Its not about confidence, but of course, its simpler to deal with just you, Daddy, than five people, Lise said assertively. And dont forget, Daddy, you and I have two contracts!


    So what? Theyre mutual anyway.


    Thats where youre wrong. The contract you have with me onlysts for 101 days, while the one I have with you is indefinite. If neither of us gets the wish by the end, youll have to be my servant for life!


    Hey now, how did I get demoted from Daddy to servant? Ashe felt the girl was getting more and more audacious: Besides, that contract is just a Two Wings Sorcerers contract, theres always a way to break it, you cant scare me.


    There is indeed a way to break it. Lise nodded. But I have ways to ensure you cant. If you go out, Ill make you buy me doughnuts, if you enter the Virtual Realm, Ill make you tell me fairy tales, if you want to read, Ill make you give me a piggyback ride. Lets see what you can do! Not only will you be my servant, but Ill also make sure you never get married!


    Lise, youre so malicious!


    Hmph, if you dont want to end up old, fall in the Restroom and break your back, unable to move and then die of hunger in utter misery, then do your best to grab the wish What are you doing! Im going to yell! The contract stiptes you cant hurt me! Stop right now!


    I dont have to stop if youmand me to! Dont forget our contract is mutual at this time, you cant restrict me! Ashe tucked Lise under his arm and furiously rubbed her white dog-like head: I indeed cant hurt you, but I can make you dirty Ha! Done!


    Lise struggled to break free from this evil man, turned to look in the mirror, and found her pretty twin-tails had turned into a messy birds nest,pletely ruining her cute appearance.


    She burst into tears, covering her ears and retreating while furiously yelling at Ashe, You cant reveal our conversation to anyone, you cant refute thismand, you cant refute refuting thismand, dont Ugh, its so annoying, just dont leak it, or youll be in trouble too! Ashe, you wait, for these 101 days, well just y father and daughter on the surface, but after the 101 days, Ill show you what cruelty is!


    Boom!


    Lise rushed too hastily and spun around, mming her head into the alloy st door. She wobbled around for a few circles, yelping incoherently before she copsed on the floor.


    Ashe was stunned by her series of actions, thinking to himself that this girls silliness was half as effective as his own in his younger years.


    He went over and gently patted her face, Hey, wake up. The floor is cold, and its easy to catch a cold. Plus, you should brush your teeth before sleeping, or youll get cavities.


    She just fainted, its nothing serious.


    Ashe turned around and saw a girl lying on her side on his bed, dressed in a ck and white checkered skirt. She had shiny ck hair, and her legs were mismatched with one white stocking and one ck, smiling warmly at him.


    But


    Shouldnt it be a miniskirt and ck and white dyed hair?


    Ashe was disappointed: Why dont you look like your portrait either!

 Chapter 197: How I Adore the Swordswoman

    Chapter 197: How I Adore the Swordswoman


    Im quite disappointed too!


    The girl sat cross-legged on the bed, her face full of dissatisfaction: Youre not as cold, cruel, and evil as I imagined.


    So my portrait gives off that kind of impression? Ashe scratched his head in shock: Well nice to meet you for the first time, Im Ashe, the apocalypse observer.


    Im the ck-and-White Witch. She swayed on the bed: Just call me Witch.


    Good evening, Witch, have you had dinner?


    Stop, lets end the unnecessary pleasantries here. She held up three fingers: Ivee to establish three principles with you first.


    Oh?


    First, unless I speak of it first, you are not to inquire about my life.


    Second, unless I ask first, you shall not reveal details about your life.


    Third, the Witch raised her third finger, I want the same treatment as the Swordswoman.


    Ashe thought for a moment, then asked: Is this about the Hidden Treasure?


    The Witch responded nomittally: You could say that.


    The ck-and-White Witchs Silver Blessing Hidden Treasure allowed her to gain strength by concealing her information, so her insistence on privacy was only natural. But why did she also demand that Ashe not disclose his own information?


    Nevertheless, Ashe couldnt reveal much anywayAnnan had just ordered them not to leak any information to non-firm personnel, and even if Ashe wanted to vent about his new boss in the virtual realm chats, the Contract would silence him.


    As for the treatment of the Swordswoman, Ashe reflected carefully: endless Training, the vanguard shield in the Exploration in Virtual Realm, the test subject for various incident cards


    No problem! Ashe pped his hands: Ill do my best to fulfill your wishes!


    Now that weve established the principles for our interaction, if theres nothing else, Ill be


    Hold on, do you know the Swordswoman? Ashe called out to her: Havent seen her for days, is she um is she too busy on her side, not even able to spare a moment to see me?


    The Witch looked at him with interest: Are you asking about that slightly scheming but adorable Swordswoman, who says one thing and means another, yet has a kind heart, and often admires herself in the mirror?


    Probably?


    Sorry, I dont know a Swordswoman like that. The ck-and-White Witch spread her hands. I just know that apart from you, theres a teammate called Swordswoman.


    How do you know so much about her then?


    From the Portrait.


    Ashe was puzzled, a storm of question marks over his head. Could a Portrait really reveal that much information?


    Damn it, if only he hadnt lost his high-definition Holographic Screen, he would definitely use a magnifying ss to study every single detail of the ck-and-White Witch and Swordswomans Portraits worth scrutinizing day and night.


    Im actually curious why you think the Swordswoman woulde to see you.


    The Witch propped her chin, smiling: If it werent for establishing rules with you before the official Exploration in Virtual Realm, I wouldnt bother to see you at all. After all, the only thing we share is the Exploration in Virtual Realm. Beyond that, we are strangers who will never meet again. Not interfering with each other is the most logical rtionship.


    Whats your rtionship with the Swordswoman, and why would she care about you?


    Ashe replied without hesitation: Because were not strangers, butpanions with a Bond. I know she would definitely care about me, just as I care about her in my heart.


    The ck-and-White Witch quietly watched Ashe, silent for a moment.


    For some reason, Ashe felt her attitude seemed to have softened slightly. Although the Witch appeared very natural and lively from the start, she had always sat on the bed, maintaining a significant distance from him, polite but aloof.


    Now, although she was still sitting on the bed, she leaned forward slightly, as if curious about Ashe, and her demeanor became gentler.


    Its not up to us to decide whether we can appear before you like this, but its determined by the Bond between us, the Witch suddenly exined. The deeper the Bond, the harder it is for us to appear before you. If the Swordswoman really cares about you, then you might find it very difficult to see her longing for you.


    So its not the Swordswomans fault for noting to see you. Shes also waiting for you to appear before her, maybe in the Virtual Realm or perhaps somewhere else


    The Witch paused: In short, if you hope to see the Swordswoman often, you might as well wish that you and the Swordswoman could stay together in the Virtual Realm forever.


    Thats a strange rule, Ashe frowned. Shouldnt it be that the deeper the Bond, the easier it is to meet?


    Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and after all, in this state, were not physical beings, but manifestations of longing, the Witch shrugged. Longing is something you dont cherish when its there, but you desperately yearn for when its absent.


    But to miss the Swordswoman so much after just a few days


    The Witchs eyes sparkled with curiosity.


    o(*) Could it be that you like her?


    I do like her.


    Hearing such a decisive and straightforward deration of love, the Witchs eyes went wide. She lightly patted her face and asked, Can you say that again?


    I like the Swordswoman, Ashe stated matter-of-factly. Shes so strong, so adorable, so beautiful, of course I like her.


    Wow!


    Wow!


    Wow!


    The Witch almost wished she could broadcast this news to everyone right away, but then she noticed Ashe was openly looking at her ck-and-white stockings.


    She hesitated for a moment, stretched out her legs, and pulled her skirt above her knees. So, do you like me?


    If you wore a super short skirt like the one in the Portrait, and if you were strong enough during Exploration in Virtual Realm, with a good growth rate in everyday situations, I probably would like you too, Ashe earnestly assessed the allure of the ck-and-white stockings.


    Thats a pretty cheap form of affection.


    Ashe was puzzled. How expensive does your love need to be? Should I write your name as the beneficiary on my insurance?


    Right, the Witch thought, after all, in Ashes eyes, they were notpletely real. Just like no one falls in love with a piece of paper, Ashes feelings for them were naturally limited to cheap affection.


    But I think it would be hard for you to surpass the Swordswoman in my heart unless your strength is really high.


    Oh? The Witch raised her eyebrows. Why? Do you think the Swordswoman is more beautiful than me?


    Its not just about the Portrait, Ashe exined. The main reason is that the Swordswoman was the firstpanion I could trust when I came to this world, the firstrade-in-arms to fight alongside me. Weve explored the Sea of Knowledge together, entered the Whirlpool together, looked at the Sorcerer Handbook together, and participated in Destinys Inquiry together My life in this world all started with the Swordswoman.


    To me, shes like the sun rising over a graveyard.


    Just this shared experience of adversity makes me feel that no one can shake her position in my heart.


    He added, Unless your strength is really high.

 Chapter 198: Swordswoman, You Dare Engage Us in Close Combat?

    Chapter 198: Swordswoman, You Dare Engage Us in Close Combat?


    Who would fancy your affection!


    The witchughed with a snort, Really, do you think youre choosing a concubine? Picky as you are, its utterly shameless!


    Youre the one who started this topic Ashe muttered, looking down at Lise, who still hadnte to: You heard her conversation with me just now, didnt you?


    Uh-huh. The witch nodded, then crossed her legs and sat on the bed: A pitiable yet terrifying child.


    Pitiable and terrifying?


    Youve realized it too, havent you? the witch said calmly: Her schemes are real, her amnesia is real, but so is her innocence. She deliberately portrays herself as cunning yet obvious to adults, probably as a means of self-preservation, right? Compared to a child with keen intuition or one who isnt clever enough, someone like her, who can be easily used by others due to her little smarts, is more likely to be favored by adults.


    Ashe recalled Lises behavior in the underground hall, where Igor and Harvey had seen through the little girls cunning. Could Annan have missed it?


    It was precisely because he saw through it that Annan decided to keep Lise.


    Had she been a child who only cried or was too clever, Annan might have handed her over to Red Cap, because what Purple Moth needed was an insect that could immediately participate in her grand scheme yet was easy to manipte.


    Lise vaguely sensed this, which is why she disyed such a personality, deliberately catering to Annans needs.


    This child, she might be quite adept at ying her role.


    But why did she, at such a young age, know to wear different masks for different asions, just like Ashe, who seemed to have been battered by society for years?


    Memory modification? Ashe said softly: Did someone warp her memory to turn her into a bug designed to exploit loopholes in the Weaving Festival?


    To deceive the Divine Master, mere memory modification probably isnt enough. The witch narrowed her eyes: What? Do you sympathize with her? Want to follow her instigation, collude with yourrades, rebel against your boss, and then hand over the results to this little girl?


    Ashe suddenly looked at the witch: Youre just like her.


    The Witchs heart skipped a beat as she rapidly sifted through her mind for any slip she might have made, though her face showed no sign of it: Just as adorable, am I?


    You think the same as she does, that if Im willing, if I desire to do so, I can tear up the Contract, obtain the highest hidden score, and im the final victory, Ashe said with a smile. Its curious how both of you, having just met me today, have such confidence in me. Do I reallye across as that if Im willing to do it, I can definitely achieve it sort of shining figure?


    Dont tter yourself, the Witch snorted. She trusts you simply because she has no one else to use but you.


    I actually dont dislike people with goals, Ashe shrugged. A journey is only a journey if you have a destination. What Im doing could only be called wandering.


    Im not one to look too far ahead. The future I can see on my tiptoes is what Ill have for lunch tomorrow. As for something asplicated as deciding on rupture, conspiracy, or betrayal 101 days from nowhow could I, 101 days ago, make such a decision? How do you decide where youll have lunch 101 days from now?


    Moreover, Ive just arrived in this new Kingdom. Im unfamiliar with its cities, culture, history, institutions, and I dont really understand the true power of the Gospel, let alone the might of the Omniscient Weaver Even though Ive been forced to join an evil organization thats passionate, ambitious, and seemingly promising, Im actually finding it hard to be enthused.


    Only after seeing enough scenery will I know whether I prefer dusk or dawn.


    That sounds like quite a spiel, the Witch swayed. Is there a simpler way to put it?


    Go with the flow and y it by ear, winked Ashe. Maybe by then, Ill have a new perspective.


    As for her Ashe nced at Lise, who was still unconscious on the ground. Even though I dont know why she insists on relying on me, if it doesnt harm my interests or only does a little after all, she is technically the only team member in my work group right now, so I might as well take care of her.


    In truth, Ashe had a soft heart.


    After all, he wasnt a purely rational creature. Seeing Lise chasing after him, calling him Daddy, he couldnt help but be reminded of his nephew back home.


    Although my nephew isnt as cute as Lise, hes definitely more of a handful and mischievous! Thinking of this, Ashe found himself regretting not having spanked his nephew more when he had the chance; now it was toote.


    Since Lise was now bound to him, he figured he might as well see what her n was before making his own. But for Ashe to be resolute and decisive in dealing with a Human child who could knock herself out by running into a doorthat wasnt something he was capable of at this stage.


    The Witch scoffed, You make it sound so noble, but arent you just pushing the decision off onto your future self?


    Its not like that, Ashe responded, lifting Lise up. I am me, and the future Ashe is the future Ashe. I never make promises lightly to myself, nor do I arbitrarily impose constraints on the future Ashe. All premature decisions either turn into mistakes or meaningless obsessions. Only choices made after careful consideration truly quicken the heart.


    I wouldnt want to deprive myself of the pleasure of thinking it over for the next 101 days.


    Ah, thats the spirit, thats the feeling.


    Its not madness, not indifference, but a deeper sense of superiority, as if viewing the whole world as a poorly staged drama, waiting arrogantly for Destiny to entertain.


    It was precisely because of this that shefavored the Observer.


    The Witch squinted her eyes, looking towards the white-haired little girl in Ashes arms: Ah, am I interrupting your colorful nightlife? Ill be on my way then


    Ashe quickly stopped her insinuations: No, no, no, Im just taking her back to her room so she doesnt drool all over the floor. Youre wee to follow and make sure nothing I do would be inappropriate for a childrens channel.


    Not interested, Im really leaving, the Witch said, her enthusiasm waning. Remember the three principles ofmunication; from now on, well meet in the Virtual Realm.


    Ashe didnt insist and left the room with Lise in his arms.


    The Witch, however, didnt leave immediately. She sat cross-legged on the bed, lost in thought.


    Until a voice came from behind, tinged with anger:


    Witch, youve overstepped your bounds.


    The Witch didnt deny it and countered with a question: But arent you curious about what the Observer thinks of the current Swordswoman? It has nothing to do with me, but when I hear that she holds a unique position in his heart, I cant help but feel a bit irritated  especially since Im so much more beautiful than you!


    Snap!


    The Witch was suddenly pushed down onto the bed, with the Swordswoman sitting on top of her, pinning her waist down so she couldnt get up, and her hands were sped around the Witchs wrists, rendering her immobile. Faced with the Swordswomans fierce gaze that seemed ready to devour her, the Witch backed down a bit: What are you doing? If you keep this up, Ill scream for help.


    The Swordswoman wasnt ying along and spoke deliberately: First, hes not the Observer; hes Ashe Heath, and shes not the Swordswoman; shes Sonya Therave. Second, you really crossed the line.


    Observing and even pushing their emotional changes is a taboo of sentiment. If I tell everyone about this, you can forget about having the right to observe ever again.


    Whimper The Witch whimpered pitifully: I didnt really say anything though


    Why did you bring up the Swordswoman in front of him? the Swordswoman demanded. Youre causing their information to not match up!


    But I really dont know that slightly scheming yet adorable Swordswoman who says one thing and means another, yet has a kind heart and often admires herself in the mirror, the Witch said with a twinkle in her eye. Im actually not too fond of lying.


    The Swordswoman replied coldly: Out of all the lies youve told, that must be the poorest one.


    Suddenly, the Witch changed tack: But why so tense? If it were the Observer catching me, Id ept it, as hes the overall in charge. But you joined this n unwillingly, didnt you? Why do you care so much about the romantic life between Ashe and Sonya?


    Thats not very like you, Swordswoman, the Witch said with a mischievous sparkle in her eye. Could it be that you


    Youre doing the same by speaking well of Lise, the Swordswoman said calmly. Isnt it natural to care about ones past self?


    After a moment of eye contact, the Witch looked away: Hmph, have it your way.


    But Swordswoman, arent you being a bit too arrogant?


    The Witch wrapped her legs around the Swordswomans, and with a swift motion, she broke free from the Swordswomans hold. In a fluid reversal of positions, she pinned the Swordswoman beneath her, grabbing her hands together and securing her wrists, while pressing down on her legs to immobilize her. Their ck and red tresses mingled together.


    Swordswoman, you actually thought, the Witchs voice seemed to transform into an eighteen-part symphony, whispering in the Swordswomans ear: that you have the ability to engage in closebat with us!?


    Swordswoman: Let go.


    The Witchs voice grew increasingly frenzied and hysterical: You pressed us for so long, now well press you for just as long!


    The expression on the Swordswomans face was impassive, but the longsword at her waist was slowly adjusting its angle, searching for the Witchs weak spot. The Witch seemed to sense the Swordswomans movements, but she didnt stop her. A dangerous curve traced the corner of her mouth, as if she was looking forward to a bloody fight with the Swordswoman


    Suddenly, amotion arose outside, it seemed Ashe had walked into Lises room and been seen by others, plunging into an awkward social situation with no easy exnation.


    The Witch listened for a moment, the madness on her face receding like the tide, then she said with a sudden smile: To be honest, when you described when you described Ashes personality traits, like everyone else, I didnt believe it.


    Its like imagining a blushing Sonya, imagining an Ashe with conscience, humanity, solitude, and fear. Its truly too much of a stretch for our imaginations. That he could even feelpassion for little Lise seemed utterly absurd


    The Swordswoman said coldly: But now you see.


    Yes, I see, the Witch said softly: Aside from the wickedness suppressed deep within his heart, he does indeed present as a cheerful and sunny good person on the surface. Even without the Enchanting Maiden, he still haspanions who follow him.


    An Ashe Heath bathed in sunlight, that really makes me so fond of him


    that I can hardly wait to destroy him.

 Chapter 199: I Told You Not to Ask

    Chapter 199: I Told You Not to Ask


    Do not ask any questions about Ashe Heath.


    Brushing his teeth, Igor stared at the Revtion reflected in the mirror, lost in thought.


    He had few doubts about the Revtion; it was just annoyingwhy was it always him?


    Since encountering Ashe, nine out of the ten Revtions Igor had received were about that guy. Thest one advised Igor to stay with Emma forever and have nine childrennow that he thought about it, being with Emma meant avoiding the Destiny of meeting Ashe, didnt it?


    From now on, when in doubt, just me Ashe


    Wait a minute, thinking it over, how could he, a Human of the Bewitcher Bloodline, have nine children with someone from the Moonshadow?


    Although Emma was indeed cute beyond her quirky nerves, with a perky posterior, soft bosom, slender waist, and very touchable big tail and wolf ears, the Blood Saints of the Moonshadow simplycked reproductive cells. From the start, they couldnt participate in procreation, which meant Emma couldnt have children no matter what


    Wait, so the Revtion meant for me to have children?


    With the Bio-modification technology of the Blood Moon Kingdom, it wasnt impossible No, thats not right, I almost got sidetrackedwhy have children? Im notcking any fertility rewards


    Having finished his grooming routine, Igor opened the curtains, nearly blinded by the sunlight that greeted him.


    It was hard to imagine that in such a grand two-tiered city, the sunlight was not blocked outjust the night before, Igor noticed the citys architecture bloomed like petals, buildings near the centralke were lower, and those toward the edges of the city towered high.


    Nothing seemed unusual at night, bute daylight, the suns rays entered the centralke and, with the help of various reflective devices, diffused like a blossoming flower into every corner of the city. Viewed from above, the entire city sparkled brightly, with high-speed vehicles weaving through the streets and well-dressed people walking under the sun, as if strolling through the clouds.


    Even though on his first day here, he was trafficked to the Four Pirs Cult, seeing this scene, it was difficult for anyone to harbor ill feelings towards this natiopared to the Gospel Kingdom, the Blood Moon Kingdom was just too gloomy.


    However, Igor didnt think the Gospel was better than the Blood Moon Kingdom just because of that. If you only focused on the Upper District and the government quarters of Kaimon City, youd think it was a world where people were polite, graceful, and the air was filled with milk and honey.


    And as Ashe saidif it really was as wonderful as heaven here, why would members of the Four Pirs Cult, fed and full, gather in the underground hall to y their live-action pranks?


    The brighter the light, the deeper the shadows. Abundant resources dont solve all problems. Nobody in the Blood Moon Kingdom starves, but once people can survive, they naturally seek moreto have more, to own more, whether its a sense of superiority, security, or pleasure.


    This is true for all races. Even the lowliest Goblins dream of ruling the world, and the most conservative Elves crave to see things burn.


    Thats why the Mind Faction is the most powerful of the Magical Factions in this era.


    Igor entered the living room and found Harvey and Lise already having breakfast, with Banjeet attending to them. The breakfast was bread with jam, vegetable sd, milk coffee, and custard-filled L Fatty. Apart from eating such a high-calorie food like L Fatty first thing in the morning, it was not much different from what he was used to in the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    Wheres Miss Annan?


    Shes out socializing. Banjeet said with a slight smile, the young butlers poise causing a stir within Igor: Please let me know if theres anything you need.


    Igorposed himself and nced at the far end of the corridor: What about Ashe?


    He hasnt gotten up yet. Harvey piled a considerable amount of pungent chili powder on his bread and took a bite: Why dont you go wake him up?


    Why should I? Igor looked at the little girl with a ponytail: Lise, go wake up that guy whos going to be your servant in 101 days.


    Hes not a servant. Lise corrected earnestly: Hes Lises daddy!


    I see, youe from a ce where servants are called daddy, right? Igor waved his hand dismissively: You go wait a second,e to think of it, this isnt Shattered Lake anymore


    Since this wasnt Shattered Lake Prison, some of the little tricks Igor had picked up for everyday interactions might actuallye in handy.


    Quickly, Igor filled a bucket with water and hid beside Lise, signaling her to knock on the door and call out.


    Daddy, time for breakfast!


    Daddy, the sun is shining so brightly today,e out and y with Lise!


    Daddy, Aunt Bukin is sniffing L Fatty with her nose!


    Really? Ashe swung the door open suddenly.


    Right now!


    Igor doused him with the Tricksters Water, a liquid blessed with his Mind Miracle, which could be activated whether consumed or applied externally, though it worked best when used to wash ones face.


    The target hit with the liquid would instantly feel a surge of anger. However, when the victim firstid eyes on a beautiful person, that anger would transform into an equal amount of affection directed at the beauty; but if the first person they saw was ugly, the anger would morph into a strong killing intent.


    Hence, this miracle was also known as First Impressions, one of the few Mind Miracles in Igors arsenal. Combined with his natural good looks, the miracle could instantly max out someones affection, allowing him to hold sway over the target.


    Usually, Igor would cast the spell on someones drink, but with Ashe, there was no need for such courtesydousing him directly was best!


    p!


    ng!


    The bucket was sent flying high, hitting the ceiling and falling back down.


    Ashe, maintaining his retaliation stance, looked at Igor and Lise, who were now soaked, and asked in confusion, What are you doing?


    Ashe hadnt even realized what had happened, but his Primal Instincts had automatically counterattacked the moment Igor attacked from out of his line of sight.


    Both nced at Ashe unconsciously, and then Lise looked up at Igor with a disdainful expression that seemed to say how can you be worse than my dad, before stomping on Ashes foot and woefully heading back to her room to change clothes.


    Igor quickly used a spirit to calm his mind, checking to see if his affection for Ashe had changed. Hmm, seeing him looking like a loser makes me want to step on him too, which means the significant decrease in affection option was triggered, so no change there.


    Consequently, Igor also stepped on Ashes foot, huffed coldly, and returned to his room to change clothes.


    In that moment, Igor suddenly recalled the Revtion just receivedthe very reason he had asked about Ashe was what sparked the idea to use Tricksters Water, which led to Ashe countering and ultimately Igors own disheveled state.


    Damn, it was all Ashes fault!


    Ashe, still utterly bewildered, thought to himselfDid you two skip breakfast or something? Those stomps were so feeble, Freya hits much harder when she ambushes me at night.

 Chapter 200: Ashes Weakness

    Chapter 200: Ashes Weakness


    As everyone gathered around the dining table, the young Banjeet cleared his throat and said, Now that were all here, does anyone have questions for me? Perhaps about the Gospel?


    Yes! Harvey raised his hand and asked, Does checking the Ranking List require Points?


    Even for those first encountering the Gospel, the lists within immediately caught their attention. Sorcerers by nature pursue fame, honor, and power. Who wouldnt want to know which sorcerer ranks first in the nation, which faction has the most learners, or which miracle is the strongest?


    Ranking Lists like the Necromancy Miracle Rankings and Mind Miracle Rankings were precisely in Harvey and Igors fields of interest. How could they not be tempted?


    Even if they couldnt learn from them, it was tantalizing to just take a look!


    However, when they opened the Gospel, hoping to see the Quadruple Wings Sorcerer Comprehensive Strength Rankings, Magical Factions Poprity Rankings, Miracle Rankings, and Spirit Rankings, they all received a disheartening message: Insufficient Points to purchase.


    It does require them.


    Banjeet nodded, but didnt continue. Instead, he pulled out a metal cigarette case that seemed at odds with his appearance. Do you mind if I smoke?


    Pass one here, Harvey signaled with his hand. Will it pack a punch?


    Ha, Im not that young anymore. This is a more health-conscious smoke, Ive just gotten into the habit of smoking during conversations.


    Smoking can be health-conscious? Eating sweets is pretty healthy for me too.


    As the two seasoned smokers began to puff away, Ashe made a disgusted noise and, taking Lise by the hand, moved to the other end of the table. He activated his Wind Barrier Spirit, forming an air shield.


    Igor remained seated but casually flicked his finger, altering the direction of the wind in the living room so that Banjeet and Harveys smoke blew toward the balcony.


    Ashe looked surprised. Bewitcher, you can also manipte Wind Magic Spirits?


    Meh, Igor replied calmly. They can be handy for aiding in the dispersion of love potions or poisons.


    You really have a way of casually mentioning the most terrifying things.


    After skillfully flicking the ash from his cigarette into his palm, Banjeet got down to business. Ill give you a copy of thetest edition of the Gospel Ranking List Directory shortly, he said. It contains the more stable, high-interest lists, like the Magical Factions Poprity Rankings, for example. Take your time and browse if youre interested.


    As for the frequently changing lists, youll have to spend Points to ess them. Its not expensiveone Point gets you a 24-hour observation right to a list. Check out the Gospel; the Points Miss gave you should have been credited by now.


    Ashe quickly opened the Gospel, his expression souring almost instantly: Just 100 Points?


    Banjeet, may I formallyin about Ashes grumbling?


    Igor, you traitor!


    Harvey had been watching Banjeet all the while but noticed that Banjeet wasnt bothered by themotion; instead, he signaled Harvey with his cigarette, understanding that this young Butler was not to be underestimatedwhether Banjeet appreciated Igors defection or disliked Ashesints, it revealed aspects of his character.


    In the Funeral Firm, Banjeet was the only local they could interact with besides Annan. If he showed enough of his likes and dislikes, that would naturally create opportunities for Igor to maneuver.


    When Banjeet took out his cigarette case, the three migrant workers quickly exchanged nces, coordinating their roles: Harvey as the observer, Ashe and Igor to alternately support and undermine each other. If even one of them could get closer to Banjeet, it would be considered a win.


    I wouldnt rmend using those 100 Points to look up the Ranking Lists, Banjeetmented. 100 Points is neither a lot nor a little, but its enough for the Gospel to answer one valuable question. Miss gave you the 100 Points hoping youd get a feel for the glory of the Gospel.


    For new Sorcerers first encountering the Gospel, there are several types of questions with a great cost-benefit ratio, such as Which Magical Faction am I most Talented in?, What Spirit should I summon next?, or How can I optimize my existing Spirit System?


    Of course, since its only 100 Points, the Gospel will likely provide a brief answer, but you can use the response as a starting point to ask more in-depth questions.


    However, Banjeet took a drag of his cigarette, I guess you might have more personal questions you want to ask.


    He had hit the nail on the head.


    Power is important, but after all, humans are social creatures. Very few Sorcerers live solely for the pursuit of power. Its merely effective capital they use to acquire other resources Although many Sorcerers eventually be personifications of power, it was clear that these Trespassers still had their own share of lifes joys and sorrows.


    Even Harvey, who imed to have nothing left to care about, flinched. He hadnt even noticed that he was smoking his cigarette backwards, burning his lips in the process, his eyes fixated on the Gospel, wondering what to ask.


    Igor hesitated for a moment, flipped to the Ask page in the Gospel, and used his thoughts to write: Has Emma Lexus suffered any negative effects because of my escape?


    The Gospel quickly listed the fees: Deep rtionship with you, -80% fee; in contact within three days, -65% fee; target is a Two Wings Sorcerer, +50% fee; target outside the Kingdom of the Gospel, +1000% fee.


    Your Points are insufficient.


    As expected, asking about matters in other Kingdoms was extremely expensive because its not about mobilizing collected intelligence, but about using a Miracle for a real Prophecy But on the flip side, asking about matters within the Kingdom of the Gospel was much cheaper.


    Igors eyes flickered as he entered: Information on Annan Dn.


    Costs 3 Points.


    Annan Dn: Ranked 3rd on the Azura Beauty Ranking, 8th on the overall Beauty Ranking, 10th on the Two Wings Sorcerer Comprehensive Power Ranking, 9th on Azuras Quest Ranking, and former head of the Funeral Firm (now off the list).


    Annan Dns family situation.


    You do not have the rights to inquire about a citizens privacy.


    Indeed, if one wanted to use the Gospel to investigate someone, they could only ess the most superficial level of information. To go any deeper would be refused by the Gospel. However, Igor also noticed that the Gospel didnt outright prohibit it, but stated no rights to inquire, which meant that as long as one had the rights, they could obtain all information about someone through the Gospel, including but not limited to privacy, geographical location, Magical Factions, and more.


    It seems the authority of the Red Cap security forces might be much greater than that of a Blood Mad Hunter


    Wait a minute!


    No rights to inquire about a citizens privacy But can these Trespassers really be considered citizens?


    Definitely not. How could an invasive species possibly receive the legal protection of the Omniscient Weaver? Moreover, they have the countdown of the Omniscient Weavers restraint behind their ears. Theoretically, their current status in the Kingdom of the Gospel is equivalent to that of red-named monsters. Even if they want to clear their names, they would have to wait for the countdown of the restraint to end


    This means that before the countdown ends, information on Ashe and Harvey is unrestricted!


    With less than two days left until the countdown finishes, the only chance to dig up their past is now!


    Igor suddenly recalled the Revtion received today: Do not ask any questions about Ashe Heath.


    Experience has proven that whenever Igor acted against a Revtion, the oues were hardly favorable. Such as being pulled into an escape from prison gang by Ashe, being implicated by him, being conned by him


    But now, the only hope of getting the upper hand on Ashe is right before my eyes, and I must consider if this might be the only chance Ill ever get.


    To restore the glory of a Con Artist is an undeniable duty!


    What are Ashe Heaths vulnerabilities that could be exploited?

 Chapter 201: The Swordswomans New Talent, The Witchs New Occupation

    Chapter 201: The Swordswomans New Talent, The Witchs New upation


    15 points expended.


    Ashe Heath can exploit the vulnerability from threats: Igor Bukin, Archibald Harvey, Lise.


    Huh?


    For a fleeting moment, Igor truly thought he held an extremely important ce in Ashes heart, nearly bursting with tionwouldnt he then be able to brazenly leverage this washed-up Cult Leader?


    However, the moment he saw the name Lise, he came back to his senses: himself and Harvey were one thing, being fellow countrymen andrades in adversity, but how could a little girl, barely known for less than a day and who almost doomed Ashes future, be a chip to threaten Ashe?


    If Lise were kidnapped and threatened to be burned without ransom, given Ashes nature, he would probably ponder whether to supply matches or fuel.


    It couldnt possibly be because Lise was a cute, white-haired little Lolita, that Ashe would treat her differently!


    Igor was good-looking too, ranked even higher than Lise on the Beauty Ranking, yet still ended up thoroughly duped by Ashe!


    So, it was clear that the Gospel had made a mistake: Igor, Harvey, and Lise were currently the characters most closely rted and on the same side as Ashe, hence the Gospel mistook them as allies of interest, consequently deducing that Ashes vulnerability were these three.


    If Igor wasnt mistaken, Harveys vulnerability must surely be the three of them  himself, Ashe, and Lise. But he was toozy to verifythere went 15 points, now his wealth entirely depended on the patronage of Miss Annan, necessitating frugal spending!


    So this was the meaning of Revtion, if he inquired about Ashe Heath, the Gospel would certainly provide an incorrect answer.


    All thanks to Ashe!


    These 15 points, he would make Ashe pay back a thousandfold!


    Ashe, sitting opposite Igor, was unaware that he had inadvertently rued another debt. At this moment, he was staring at the response from the Gospel, his brow slightly furrowed.


    Can the Omnipotent Wish allow me to transmigrate back to my own world?


    1 point expended.


    The Omnipotent Wish can traverse time and space, worlds as well, but whether it can reach a specific world requires a case-by-case analysis.


    Case-by-case analysis  upon seeing such an official response, Ashe almost triggered PTSD. He had heard this kind of talk too much in the workce, and the subtext was always, I can do this for you, but I dont want to put in the effort.


    On the other hand, this statement also gave Ashe some confidence.


    If the Gospel had assured him with certainty, Ashe would have been suspicious of whether the Divine Master was a colleague of Igors  in any world, only swindlers can guarantee to fulfill all your wishes.


    So, if I could obtain this Omnipotent Wish, could I really go home?


    Realizing this hope, Ashe wasnt overly excited. Its not that he didnt miss his moms hearty soup or his dads nagging, but as he had told the Swordswoman in the Virtual Realm, he wasnt the type of person who needed to cling to a wish to survive.


    Embracing hope pretentiously and then sinking into despair just as pretentiously was too pitiful.


    When Ashe arrived in this world, he had no illusions about making it back alive.


    Therefore, if he obtained the Omnipotent Wish and sessfully returned to face the pressures of matchmaking, mortgages, retirement, and the like, it would certainly be a good reason to resign, lie t, and celebrate;


    But if the Omnipotent Wish wasnt so omnipotent, Ashe wouldnt be too disappointed;


    If he didnt get it, Ashe would just draw circles and curse the lucky one, then forget about it afterward.


    After verifying the usability of the Omnipotent Wish, Ashe suddenly felt he had nothing to ask.


    Summoning a spirit? Suitable for which Magical Factions? But his cultivation experience was full of fluff, not a bit of solid content,pletely reliant on being an essory to the Swordswoman for todays strength, he had neither the necessity nor the ability to cultivate on his own  diligence and focus were the foundations of all Sorcerers, and Ashe had lost these two skills after high school.


    And no need to ask if the existing Spirits are being utilized efficiently. Once Ashe began the Exploration in Virtual Realm, a spirit upgrade was inevitable. Aside from the Heart Sword, Substitute, Earth Sword, and Wind Barrier, the rest were likely to be reced or relegated to a lower priority.


    Just as Freya wouldnt fuss over a Mud Worker used for a single night, Ashe had no interest in dwelling on spirits that were on the verge of being reced.


    This strategy could even be taken a step furtherthere was no need to waste resources on Ashe. As an essory, one should be aware of their role and not aspire to surpass the innate Talents of Operators through effort and resources!


    Self-awareness was one of Ashes virtues!


    With a thought, he opened Auroras Sorcerer Handbook, and a message popped up.


    Death Maniac Swordswomans Growth Report 4.26~5.2


    Swordsmanship Faction: Silver  Silver


    Radiance Magic Faction: Silver  Silver


    Water Faction: Silver  Silver


    Mind Faction: Silver  Silver


    Arcane Energy: Silver Full-Wing  Gold Virtual Wing


    Cultivation Evaluation: Grade S!


    Due to achieving Grade S, Death Maniac Swordswoman receives upational Enhancement: Soulbreak Silver Sorcerer  Frenzy Dancer!


    Frenzy Dancer upational Traits: Attacking the same target increases attack speed by 2%, stacking up to 5 times, and the effect is immediately lost when switching targets.


    With the boost in arcane energy, the Death Maniac Swordswomans Talent is enhanced!


    Due to achieving Grade S, Death Maniac Swordswoman receives the Assessment Mission Frenzy Dance!


    Frenzy Dance: Within the next 7 days, perform 10,000 effective shes. Uponpleting the mission, the Frenzy Dancers upational Trait can be permanently fixed! Current progress (0/10000).


    Ashe hadnt expected the Sorcerer Handbook toe up with new trickswhy was it always personal benefits for the Swordswoman? He wanted some too!


    Permanently fixing upational Traits meant that even if a new upation were chosen in the future, the Swordswoman would retain the Frenzy Dance trait, essentially gaining a passive skill.


    Ashe understood the significance of this mechanism: if the Frenzy Dance could be fixed this time, what about next time? Or the time after that?


    This essentially provided the Swordswoman and other Operators with a strengthening system separate from spirits. Its not to say that the Swordswoman could now dominate a standard Two Wings Sorcereractually, at the moment, its the regr Two Wings Sorcerers who could easily overpower the two illegal immigrants on the Time Continent. However, with long-term cultivation and an increasing number of solidified upational Traits, the Operatorsbat abilities are bound to experience sudden and formidable growth.


    Its like having a job where, despite earning the same wage, your colleague makes extra ie from rent. Ten Years down the line, youre still saving for a down payment while theyre taking out a mortgage on a second property.


    The only tricky part is this Assessment Mission. In the past, it would have been a breeze toplete, but now, with both Ashe and the Swordswomans souls not knowing when they will fully recover, if they cant go to the Virtual Realm to y monsters, the Swordswoman might as well take a part-time job at the ughterhouse


    Aside from that, the Swordswomans Inherent Talent has also be stronger!


    Inherent Talent Swordswoman (mid-tier): Gain an additional 150% Swordsmanship experience, a low chance to gain 10000% Swordsmanship experience, and a very low chance to trigger the Resentful Dragons Phantom (unlocks higher Talent levels after strength improvement).


    The Swordswomans Talent had also advanced to mid-tier, not much different from the ck-and-White Witch. But just as the Witch has a chance to trigger the Bronze Dragons Favor, the Swordswoman also has a probability of triggering the Resentful Dragons Phantom. Ashe nodded at this, though no detailed exnation popped up.


    Theres not much to say about the cultivation strategy for the Swordswoman. Although the system kept suggesting Entertainment time, Ashe was not keen on epting this kind of advice.


    At worst, hed just tell the Swordswoman a few more cold jokes in the Virtual Realmthats his Entertainment!


    When Ashe opened the interface for the ck-and-White Witch, he found that in just one day, there had been significant changes


    upation: Daughter of the Bronze Dragon


    upational Traits: A youngdy favored by the Bronze Dragon, currently under a special curse. After lifting the curse, one can obtain the Bronze Dragons blessing. While cursed, the ck-and-White Witch suffers a -75% learning efficiency across all Factions and benefits from a +10 Luck Check.


    Curse Example: The maiden transforms into an old crone and can only lift the curse with a true loves kiss, but is unable tomunicate the curses details to others.


    Knowledge Curse: Bronze Dragons Secret Poison


    This curse looks quite fairy-tale-like.


    No wonder the Witch didnt allow Ashe to ask about her conditionit turns out she was gagged too, making any questions futile.


    But this begs the question: is the Witchs current real-life state that of an old woman?


    She may not even be humanperhaps transformed into a frog, a rabbit, or even L Fatty.


    However, this upations debuff is too powerful; a -75% learning efficiency effectively halves the effort, while the only benefit is a +10 Luck Check, simr to Ashes previous upation Cult Leader. But being a Cult Leader did not have such severe negative effects, aside from making Ashe as popr as a rat crossing the street.


    Simply put, this upation currently only offers negative returns, much like Ashes Cmity Walker.


    But ording to the Sorcerer worlds principle of greater risk, greater reward, the Witchs blessing after lifting the curse should be very powerfulperhaps even transforming into a dragon. Then, Ashe wouldnt need a car in the Virtual Realm; he could just be a Dragon Rider!


    Additionally, the Witch suddenly acquired an Eviction Secret Poison, likely obtained after triggering the Bronze Dragons Favor. Ashe wanted to check the poisons details but was met with a prompt:


    You do not know this secret poison.


    Well, of course, I dont! How could I if you dont tell me?!


    Ashe guessed that unlike other data, if a yer doesnt know about the secret poison, it wont be disyed to prevent yers from being fed garbage by an Operatorlike Eviction Secret Poison, a trashy poison Ashe would certainly prefer to be ignorant of.


    Just as he was about to arrange a Cultivation Strategy, Ashe found himself scratching his head: The Witchs Talent is undoubtedly of the Time Faction, but her major, the Fist and w Faction, is gold-tier. Clearly, the Witchs main output method is also Fist and w, and it just so happens Ashe has a Training Gloves with a +15% efficiency. So, should the Witchs training direction be the Fist and w Faction or the Time Faction?


    If it were the old days, Ashe would have chosen randomly, but now he has the Gospel, which could provide direct guidance!


    I have a friend

 Chapter 202: Preparations Before Cheating

    Chapter 202: Preparations Before Cheating


    At this moment, Igor finished researching his next developmental path, his face revealing a veryplex expression.


    The smoking Butler Youth noticed this scene and asked, Mr. Bukin, do you have any questions?


    Nothing much, I just feel the people here are really blessed.


    Igors tone was somewhat mncholic: The answer I just got for 82 Points would have been impossible to obtain with any amount of money in the previous Kingdom. But, you, sir, have been living here since you were young, so perhaps you cant understand the feelings of someone from the countryside like me?


    Thats not necessarily true, Banjeet said with a smile: The Gospel is bestowed selflessly upon the world, but not everyone is eligible to partake in it. I was equally astonished the first time I Prayed for the Gospel, by the greatness of the Omniscient Weaver.


    Ive had a question sincest night, Igor inquired: With less than 10,000 on each Ranking List, and only the top ten positions listed, even without ounting for oveps, there are less than a hundred thousand spots avable in the entire Kingdom. If making the list is the sole source of Points, then how does the average person earn Points?


    Organizational Rankings, Banjeet stated sinctly: For instance, if the Funeral Firm makes the list, Miss would share a certain proportion of Points with me as profit sharing. Ordinary people just need to join top tenpanies in their respective fields that can make the list, and their sries will generally include Points.


    Besides, the Points from various city Ranking Lists are also distributed to workers in their respective fields, like the Security Ranking Points would definitely be shared with those wearing the Red Cap. Basically, as long as you are a tax-paying citizen, you will receive a certain amount of Points as a year-end benefit.


    Igor nodded, That sounds quite fair


    Ashe, who was editing his question, raised an eyebrow upon hearing this: Igor, do you really think its fair?


    Igor instinctively wanted to argue, but seeing Banjeets surprised expression, he realized Ashe was right. Yet, even after pondering for a long while, the Con Artist couldnt figure out the catch.


    Igor, a smart person like you naturally cant see the cunning within this system, Harveyughed. Because you are certain that with effort, you can join a goodpany, earn your first Points, and then gradually snowball and grow. But even a Corpse could tell you that the positions andpanies that share Points are limited, and those qualified topete for these spots must have improved themselves into high-quality talents through Points.


    Points are the universal Currency, and nobody thinks they have enough. Unlike wealth, which has a limit to how much one can indulge in, Points can be easily spent. Therefore, the Kingdom definitely follows the Pareto principle, with arge amount of Points flowing into the hands of a few. Moreover, with the Family System in ce, the deeper the umtion of Points in the parent generation, the easier it is for the progeny to make the list. Those at the bottom simply dont have the resources topete with Points families.


    That cant be right, Igor frowned. There should be free basic education here


    Thats exactly it, Igor. Youre too smart, and thats why you cant see through it, Harvey said. Do you think the children from the same Nursery as you can be Two Wings Sorcerers like you? Your intelligence and self-discipline have already exceeded the ordinary, and you can perfect your knowledge system through self-study. But ordinary people need guidance and someone to fill in the gaps, and this is where Pointse into y.


    Of course, maybe Im wrong, Harvey looked at Banjeet. Points really are the Boon of the Gospel Kingdom and havent be a barrier between sses.


    Banjeet flicked the ash from his palm and smiled, Mr. Harvey, youre mostly right, but because of the Loopholes in the Gospel, the social system of the Gospel Kingdom isnt that simple.


    Loopholes?


    Miss didnt seem to mention this, Banjeet said. Aside from the ughter Ranking and other Sin Ranking Lists, most normal lists consider personal credit.


    Almost instantly, both Igor and Harveys eyes lit up with an unusual gleamthat ofid-off workers suddenly discovering new job opportunities.


    Not all crimes result in arrests, and in fact, even if someonemits murder, as long as the Red Cap doesnt find out, its as if it never happened. However, the Gospel records all illegal activities in ones credit report, and if someone suddenly disappears from the rankings, the Red Cap will likely find something if they decide to investigate.


    The Loophole in the Gospel is that as long as youre not the onemitting the act, it wont affect your own credit.


    So even those who arent qualified to be on the rankings have their own kind of work they can do.


    Igor pondered, I thought Firms were just organizations that did the dirty work


    Firms are at most for pruning branches, eliminating pests and diseases. Banjeet pointed outside the balcony, Azura is actually a three-tiered city.


    The secondyer bathed in sunlight, the firstyer that clings to the earth.


    And the negative firstyer that absorbs nutrients.


    Azuras Sewer, Mermaid Pce.


    Do you guys really not n to buy a dehumidifier? Annanined, crouching by the poolside. This sticky humidity is so ufortable.


    This level of humidity is just perfect for us, Sea demons. Sirimoro lounged in the pool, flicking his tail and sshing water, which was blocked by a barrier Annan casually put up. Stop it, I dont want to get wet going back.


    You could change your clothes here, Sirimoro suggested, resting his arms on the pool edge, speaking as if singing, Especially since your Firm has been removed from the Mission Ranking, and you, having betrayed your employer, surely wont have anymissions in the future. With all this free time, why note and y in the water with me?


    Youre quite well-informed.


    Water knows everything.


    Sirimoro propped his chin, looking up at Annan, Why not just join us Merfolk? Although youre not a Sea demon and certainly cant be one of the Ten Sea Witches, I would still value you and perform the Bubble Ritual for you!


    Thanks for the kind offer, Annan said, not amused, but I dont have anyone I fancy, nor am I interested in losing my voice.


    Sea demons are a branch of Merfolk, but quite different from them: Merfolk evolved limbs while retaining fish-like characteristics, whereas Sea demons have upper bodies not much different from humans, only their heads retain coral-like fin spines, but their lower bodies are snake or fish-like.


    Thanks to their outstanding Talent from the Prophecy Faction, Sea demons are virtually the uncrowned kings within the hidden world of the Kingdom, able to glean the most intelligence from the Deep Blue Gospel at the lowest cost. The Ten Sea Witches, like Sirimoro here before Annan, have their roots in the nine most prosperous cities of the Kingdom,manding all the hidden organizations within Azura.


    Sea demons dont reject outsiders from joining their ranks, but new members must pass the Bubble Ritual: either kill their lover or lose their voice. Completing one of these tasks earns the trust of the Sea demons and even a share of their prophetic Talent. However, it also means forfeiting the right to appear on the conventional Ranking List, a sort of initiation into the hidden organizations.


    I want to


    If youre here to talk business, then you know the drill.


    Annan paused, resignedly dropping to the ground to start doing push-ups.


    Merfolk have a peculiar hobbythey enjoy watching humans exercise. Normally that would be fine, but if you want to discuss business with them, you inevitably have to work out while talking to them, much like social drinking.


    I want, to use, my favor, to ask you to do something for me, Annan panted after doing just a few push-ups.


    Watching the sweat bead on Annans forehead, Sirimoro giggled, leaping out of the pool without causing a single ssh. She slid next to Annan, her voice slick as a duet of echoes: Are you sure? That favor helped me be a Sea Witch. Once you use it, youll have no more advantages with the Merfolk.


    Im sure.


    State your request, the water is listening.


    In thest fifteen years in the Azura region, have there been any deceased Echo Children?


    Sirimoro summoned her Deep Blue Gospel. With a thought, the necessary information organized itself and appearedonce someone obtains a Gospel, it automatically gathers all intelligence about the holders surroundings. When needed, the holder can open the Gospel to peruse everything they once knew, without spending any Points, effectively carrying a personal library with them.


    There are 76 names, Sirimoro said with schadenfreude. Almost no sessful cases, the best one died at the age of five.


    Are all these Wet Work handled by your people?


    Of course, they wouldnt dare to deal with such tasks themselves; they always entrust our people to carry out the final execution, Sirimoro stated. But if youre looking to acquire the Miracle Technique of these families, thats out of my reach. We have a Contract. Even in the Gospel Kingdom, no Legend Sorcerer can break a Contract written on Fabric.


    I dont need their techniques, Annan said. Are you also in charge of disposing of the Corpses?


    Sure, its just part of the job anyway.


    How about the quality of these Echo Children?


    They are quite exceptional, having gone through so many iterations over the years, Sirimoro exined. Almost every one of them is a Genius of all Faction Realms, with some infants reaching the Silver Tier at just two years old. However, these geniuses artificially created through Miracles are almost inevitably short-lived. To deceive the Weaving Festival and secure a seat, they need to live for over ten years, or else the Weaving Festival wont recognize these Echo Children.


    Echo Children are a unique product of the Gospel Kingdom. These infants are subjected to Miracles during gestation to prematurely develop their intellect, almost all possessing Talent across all Factions. If they can survive until the age of ten, they are certain to master a Gold Tier Faction Technique.


    But they seldom live to be ten.


    The purpose of these Echo Children is tounch surprise attacks and to deceive the Weaving Festival.


    As long as these children live past ten years and their potential is recognized by the Weaving Festival, they will essentially be true Echoers. After all, while the Weaving Festivals Ranking List is random, Echo Children are geniuses of all Factions. Whatever question you pose, if I cant answer it, consider it a loss for me.


    Of course, the rewards of the Weaving Festival are naturally taken by their Family, while the Echo Children are kept alive until they die naturally. Without rewards to extend their lifespan, Echo Children can only live up to fifteen years at most. After all, geniuses artificially created in such a way are too much against the natural order. If there were no severe consequences, the whole Gospel Kingdom would have ascended long ago.


    Just as the Blood Moon Kingdom excels in Bio-modification, the Gospel Kingdom has a profound cultivation in the field of artificial geniusesfrom the very first day the Weaving Festival appeared, countless individuals have pondered how to deceive the Prophecy of the Omniscient Weaver.


    In the future, it might be possible to create a Faction Genius capable of living stably until the age of 20, but for now, the Echo Child initiative is more like a lottery for the elite Families, a test of the technological progress umted over the past fifty years, akin to an arms race.


    Annan said, I need you to alter the records of the Echo Child to specify three individuals, even creating the illusion that they have not died and have been active in the outskirts, Sewers, and forests all this time.


    Sirimoro was somewhat surprised and casually asked, No problem. Do you want to pick specific birth years?


    No need, Annan replied. Just change the records for all the Echo Children who died in the past fifteen years.


    All of them?


    All of them.


    Sirimoro narrowed her eyes slightly.


    She realized what Annan intended to do.


    The Gospel had many loopholes, one of which was the Retrieval Loophole. When the Gospel sought to query individuals with the same name and surname, it could potentially mix up the information of multiple people into a single profile.


    But this loophole had been fixed a long time ago. As long as you were born in the Gospel Kingdom, the Gospel would assign you a unique number that only it could know, avoiding any confusion with others who might share your name and surname.


    Annan undoubtedly knew this, yet she was willing to expend her favor to merge the Echo Child records with those of the three individuals. This meant she was quite confident that she could trigger the Retrieval Loophole in the Gospel, leading it to mistake these three individuals for whole-Faction Geniuses.


    This meant that these three individuals


    Suddenly, a Contract Fabric was extended in front of Sirimoro.


    Even though I trust the integrity of a Sea Witch, its safer to have a contract, Annan insisted,pletely exhausted and copsing to the ground, her amethyst earring swaying in the light. Once the contract is signed, Ill hand over the names, appearances, and information of those three to you.


    Sirimoro took the Fabric, signed her name, and watched as the Fabric burned away. She then asked, Youre willing to risk your Firms ranking for this? Was your whole-hearted effort to support me in bing the Azura Sea Witch also for this moment?


    Annan nodded, her tired face etched with determination.


    Ive staked the name of Dn on this.

 Chapter 203: The Witchs Entertainment

    Chapter 203: The Witchs Entertainment


    After several revisions, Ashe input all the data of the ck-and-White Witch, and the Gospel finally provided a useful response:


    Cost: 50 Points.


    First conclusion: Practice the Fist and w Faction.


    The Time Faction has a lower learning efficiency in reality. The only suitable ce for practicing the Time Faction is, and only is, the Time Continent. Its most cost-effective for your friend to enhancebat strength by practicing the Fist and w Faction in reality and embark on high-intensity adventures in the Virtual Realm.


    The prerequisites are: (1) Your friend indeed possesses a Talent for the Time Faction (slightly doubtful); (2) Your friend actually owns an Item that provides a +15% Fist and w Faction practice efficiency in reality (somewhat doubtful); (3) Your friend can summon two Two Wings creatures with specialbat abilities to assist in adventures within the Virtual Realm (strongly suspect your friend is lying, as the ability to summon creatures of the same rank in the Virtual Realm is exceedingly rare among Two Wings Sorcerers).


    Therefore, the second conclusion can be drawn: Is your friend seriously ill?


    This Gospel turned out to be quite sarcastic


    Since the guide put it that way, Ashe had no reason not to follow its instructionsafter all, 50 Points spent should not go to wasteso he equipped the ck-and-White Witch with Training Gloves, consumed an Advanced Stamina Potion and an Advanced Experience Potion, then filled up three Action Points.


    However, at that moment, Ashe suddenly remembered that the witch had another option


    Entertainment!


    With the blessing of the Debauched Princes D20, Operators could also gain Magic experience through entertainment. Ashe had previously been indifferent to this option because the gains from entertainment were definitely lower than training, and it involved betting on luckAshe, a low-quality male user who had never won anything, had no expectations for his luck.


    But now he realized that the D20 was perfectly suited for the witchs situation.


    The witchs Trial upation greatly reduced learning efficiency, but the pleasurable Magic experience rewards from the D20 would not be reduced, only amplified, perfectly circumventing the witchs negative state.


    Ashe had an epiphanyEntertainment wasnt merely for fun; it was a special form of Training designed to bypass negative states!


    He almost misunderstood this game mechanic. Thankfully, since he hadnt previously been human, hed never scheduled Entertainment for the Swordswoman, or else he wouldve missed out big time!


    Entertainment only took up two Action Points, so what to do with the remaining one? Rest was out of the question, and with the low efficiency of Training, it seemed Battle was the only viable option.


    Within the Cultivation Strategy, the Entertainment option had transformed, now featuring a D20 icon that looked strikingly simr to the entrance of an online casino.


    The Entertainment interface presented two types of activities: Specialized and All-Purpose.


    Specialized Entertainment, such as Fire Faction  Candle Lighting, Water Faction  Pool y, Prophecy Faction  Hide and Seek, Mind Faction  Solo Housekeeping, Truth Faction  Completing a Set of Papers, etc., would only increase experience in specific Magical Factions, but offer arger amount of experience.


    All-Purpose Entertainment, like ying with Mud, Catching Beetles, Jump Rope, ying Ser, and such, which were not highly specialized or involved multiple factions, would increase experience in several Magical Factions, albeit providing a smaller amount of experience.


    It all seemed soplicated; perhaps it would be simpler to have the witch Train.


    But mobile games, being mobile games, provided a convenient option forzy yers like Ashe


    Random Game: The Entertainment activity is random, and experience is gained only in one Magical Faction, with an additional 10% Experience Bonus.


    That was the one!


    Would you like to activate the apocalypse observers Inherent Talent and log the ck-and-White Witch in the Sorcerer Handbook?


    Ashe paused, reminded that the Sorcerer Handbook required binding an Operator to schedule their activities. The Swordswoman had undergone this process as well.


    A thought suddenly crossed his mindwhat if, in the future, he drew a new Operator, but there were no spots left in the Sorcerer Handbook? Could he delete an old Operator to make room?


    This idea was fleeting, and Ashe chose Confirm.


    Swordswoman Cultivation Strategy: Training, Training, Battle


    Witch Cultivation Strategy: Entertainment (Random Game  Fist and w Experience), Battle


    After setting the Cultivation Strategy for the Witch and the Swordswoman for the week, Ashe closed the Gospel as the Butler Youth finished a cigarette, snuffed it out in his palm, and stood up to speak, Annan has two demands of you.


    Everyone looked up at him.


    First, do not leave the house for the time being.


    Second, do not engage in any Magical Factions training. Banjeet paused for a moment, At most, you may peruse the reference books of the Magical Factions, but Miss hopes you can y as much as possible and do less serious work.


    Ashe was puzzledwas there really such a good deal?


    It was Igor who guessed something, To prevent our actions from contaminating our evaluations?


    Exactly, Banjeet patiently exined, Your learning efficiency will be recorded by the Gospel. The more diligently you study, the deeper the Gospels understanding of you, which is very detrimental to bing an Echoeron the contrary, thezier you are, the Gospel might overestimate you. After all, you have the backing of Two Wings arcane energy on your resumes. When its found that you dont work hard usually, the Gospel will naturally assume your Talent is higher.


    Understood, this was the Sly Student strategy, appearing not to work hard every day, but in reality having finished all the semesters books before the term starts, just to seem effortlessly talented, making others overestimate ones abilities.


    As opposed to Igor and Harvey who yearned for progress, Ashe was now extremely pleasedyeah, everyones lying t with me now!


    Lise, you can y to your hearts content these days You dont seem very happy though?


    Lise, looking at herself in the mirror, seemed quite conflicted (///): Where do you see me being unhappy? Im very happy, Daddy!


    At least put on a happy face to fool me!


    Banjeet said, Speaking of which, I havent introduced you to the various facilities of the house. Here we have a library, a swimming pool, a shooting range, an audio-visual Entertainment room, a simtion game room, a novelty game room, where Gun Technique sorcerers are not allowed in the shooting range, simrly, Water Art sorcerers are not allowed in the swimming pool, Illusion Sorcerers are not allowed in the simtion game room, please follow me


    Im not interested, Harvey stood up and said, Im going back to my room. Please buy me a box of catnip.


    Banjeet was slightly taken aback: A box? Are you sure?


    What grass? Like vegetables? Ashe asked curiously.


    Does Harvey look like the good kid who eats his vegetables? Hes more likely to eat corpses, Igor muttered. The only two possibilities that he would ask for something are either rted to corpses or


    Catnip is a niche type of tobo, Banjeet emphasized niche, and everyone understood what was impliedwhile others use their points to inquire about their career paths or whether they have a girlfriend, Harvey was practical, looking for a substitute for moon sugar!


    Watching Harvey return to his room alone, Ashe was somewhat puzzled: Can the Necromancy Faction increase resistance to toxins? Even if he has resistance, wouldnt consuming hallucinogens like that strongly affect his mind?


    Maybe thats exactly what he wantsto affect his mind.


    Igor gave Ashe a nce. Although the stars are beautiful, one cannot reach them with outstretched arms; although the gutter is filthy, it bes a ce of peaceful sleep if one lies down.


    Not everyone wants to be sober.


    Ashe said, Isnt this the time for you, a Mind Sorcerer, to act? Your specialty is psychotherapy, after all! Harvey is on our side for now, can you help him get back to normal?


    First of all, if we go by the standards of the Blood Moon, Harvey is quite normal right now, Igor said calmly. Moon sugar is already one of the ssic drugs used by psychotherapists. If you go for psychotherapy, nine out of ten will rmend moon sugar, and thest one will suggest you buy something stronger from the ck market, like dancing powder.


    Secondly, do you think I have the spare energy to deal with someone elses psychological issues right now?


    The Con Artist met the Cult Leaders gaze and sighed softly, Ashe, you are stronger than any of us.


    Ashe was taken aback, then shook his head: Im just experienced, thats all.

 Chapter 204: The Witch and the Princess

    Chapter 204: The Witch and the Princess


    At that moment, the Butler Youth beckoned them to follow. Lise obediently trailed behind, looking like a little brother and sister.


    Igor approached, and the scene suddenly transformed into a beautiful young woman with two Angel children.


    Ashe subconsciously kept his distance from them, so as not to lower their average level of attractiveness.


    Banjeet guided them through the other rooms on this floor, but Ashe was still thinking about what Igor had just said.


    The escape from the Blood Moon was a collective effort; even after the transmigration and a series of events, both Igor and Harvey continued to demonstrate the high level of criminal expertise expected of Death row inmates. Thus, Ashe didnt believe they would feel panic due to being strangers in a strangend.


    But on second thought, even during Ashes most rebellious times, when he longed to escape his family and went to college alone in a different ce, he still felt cramped and fearful. Escaping the Blood Moon, with no hope of return within their lifetimes, they would have to survive in this foreign Kingdom with its different culture and political system.


    Perhaps they would quickly adapt to their new lives, but during the adjustment period, they would have to battle their own longing, regrets, and loneliness.


    The reason Ashe was unfazed was that this was his second transmigration. His previous one had been a switch of universal servers; this time, it was merely a change of regional servers. How could Ashe possibly feel nervous?


    Most importantly, Ashe was different from Harvey and Igor.


    He was no longer alone.


    So, the proper treatment for Igor and Harvey should be


    Igor, Ashe walked over and patted the Con Artist on the shoulder, expressing his concern, Youre not getting any younger. Isnt it time to think about love, finding a partner?


    The look Igor gave Ashe was like staring at a pile of excrement.


    After the Butler Youth had shown them around, he said, Feel free to enjoy the food and drinks, but please be mindful of your weight; do not diet or overindulge. If you need anything, just call for me; Im usually in my room. I personally suggest you start by watching the documentary Gospel, to get a basic understanding of the structure of the Gospel Kingdom Anything else?


    Banjeet brother, Banjeet brother! Lise looked up at the Butler Youth, How old are you this year?


    Good question! Igor and Ashe inwardly eximed. They had already guessed from earlier interactions that Banjeets age was far beyond what his appearance suggested, or perhaps Banjeet hadnt bothered to hide this fact at all.


    They were still pondering how to subtly extend the conversation towards this topic when Lise directly asked. This was the advantage of being a child; even if she had touched on Banjeets sore point, she could still get away with acting cute. If it had been Igor or Ashe, the atmosphere could have be very awkward.


    Banjeet nced at them, pulled out a hair tie to gather his light blue long hair, and tilted his head, I am 61 years old this year.


    61 years old!?


    Are you sure its not 16?


    However, Igors eyes sparkled with excitement: Youre 61 years old, so thest Weaving Festival


    Do you know why Miss is willing to pave the way for you at all costs? Banjeet said with a smile, I am actually also a Person from the Exotic Lands. Once was.


    So youre thest Echoer?


    Banjeet nodded and poked his own cheek dimples with his fingers, This is my Echo Reward.


    Seeing this, Lise also poked her own face, showing an innocent and adorable expression. Ashe looked back and forth between the two and shook his head, Lise, you lost.


    I didnt ask Dad.


    If there are no other questions, then youre free to do as you wish. Lunch starts at 12, and I will notify you, Banjeet waved and left.


    Im going to watch the documentary Gospel, Igor decided to take Banjeets advice.


    I want to go to the simtion game room to y the virtual games here, Ashe said eagerly.


    The two hardened adult criminals looked at the little girl. Lise raised her hand, Im going to the library to read! I can take care of myself! Ashe Dad, Aunt Bukin, you guys do your own thing!


    Ashe, let me give you a hand with educating your daughter


    Wait, I have a Contract with her. I have to protect her. If you want to spank her, youll have to get past my Corpse!


    Is that an offer?


    Lise ignored the two adults acting like children and dashed to the library of the ce, closing the big door behind her.


    She found the librarys mirror and spoke to the pretty white-haired little girl reflected in it:


    Secret Princess Deya, are you there?


    Little Witch Lise, I am here.


    When Lise blinked, she had be Deya.


    Deya spun around on the spot, twisted her neck, and hopped twice, silentlyining that this body was too inconvenient. She would have preferred the Bronze Dragon to transform her into an old crone rather than this form that could only rely on being cute to get by


    But now, atst, she had some free time!


    She set up adder and pulled out several reference books from the library shelves: How to Manually Trigger a Virtual Realm Storm, 100 Rules of Interpersonal Rtionships You Cant Ignore, An Introduction to Virtual Realm Creatures, A Brief Analysis of Magical Factions, Essentials of Guard Sorcerer Combat Techniques, and Surviving the Wilderness with a Dog from the Start.


    To prevent anyone from suddenly bursting in, she also took a few cute picture books and spread them out beside her, then diligently started reading thoseplex tomes.


    Perhaps some could deduce from this selection of booksDeya had never been formally schooled, nor had she received formal sorcerer education.


    She could read, sing, y instruments, knew about rhythm, was proficient in paintingin short, she was acquainted with elegant arts unrted to life, but shecked any knowledge of magical factions or survival skills.


    Her current understanding of magical factions, survival skills, and even interpersonal interactions all came from reading the Sorcerer Handbook and using Experience Orbs in the Virtual Realm.


    If it werent for the ability to acquire knowledge in the Virtual Realm, she might still be a princess in the Tower, staring at the sky cut into squares by the windows, with an innocent smile of a fool, blissfully epting her Destiny.


    After leaving the Tower with the help of the Bronze Dragon, one of Deyas goals for herself was to quickly fill the gaps in her knowledge, perfect her sorcerer knowledge system, and learn various survival skills to prepare for a future life in exile.


    Deya had also wanted to practice the arts of the Time Faction, but since Banjeet advised against it, she decided not to go against this directive.


    Because she genuinely wanted to join the sphemous Gospel n!


    Although initially transmigrating to the territory of the Four Pirs Cult and being captured by the Cultists, then being favored by Annan and forced to be a pawn of the Purple Moth, this series of events precisely aligned with Deyas needs!


    The reason Deya went to great lengths to trigger the Bronze Dragons Favor at this time was to erase her past and participate in the Weaving Festival as a clean te, thereby bing an Echoer and seizing the Divine Masters Wish!


    Bing a pawn for Annan was not just a danger for Deya; it was the opportunity she had been dreaming of!


    Deya only knew that to exploit the Weaving Festival Loophole, she must have the Bronze Dragon erase her past, but she was actually still clueless about how to exploit the Loophole.


    And then, Annan appeared.


    It was like a knight on the brink of starvation encountering a greedy dragon; either the knight would y the dragon to fill his belly, or the dragon would fatten up the knight to satisfy its appetite. But regardless, one of them was sure to achieve their goal!


    Without a doubt, Annans meeting with Deya was a deliberate arrangement by the Bronze Dragon!


    As one of the rarest Virtual Realm mechanisms on the Time Continent, Bronze Dragons Favor, Deya received not only a curse but also the Bronze Dragons mischievously bestowed blessing.


    The current situation was exactly as described in the Sorcerer Handbook. Bronze Dragons Favor, while bestowing a Trial, also tried its utmost to help the trial-taker achieve their wish, but this process was often as romantic as a fairy talein simple terms, the Bronze Dragon would continually create messy situations, insisting on ying pranks on the trial-taker.


    Deyas journey, filled with hardship and eventually turning into a blessing in disguise by joining Annans Firm, was akin to taking a shortcut to seize the Divine Masters Wish, and this arrangement of Destiny was clearly the Bronze Dragon at work.


    Without this series of coincidences, Deya would never have met someone like Annan, who shared her goal of defying the gods; but it was also these idents that forced Deya to act cute to survive, indirectlying under Annans control.


    Comin, and the mischief of the Bronze Dragon indeed seems well-yed; but be grateful, and the y of the Bronze Dragon is somewhat botched.


    Its infuriating to the point of gnashing ones teeth, yet one cant help but not be angry at heart.


    Fortunately, the Little Witch that Deya had recently crafted was smart enough to avoid entering a direct Contract with Annan. Instead, she chose to bind with Ashe, who seemed rather naive, not only leaving room for rebellion but also gaining a minion to exploit.


    The only problem is that this minion doesnt seem very useful If Lise had chosen Igor to be her father at that time, it would have been better. However, since Lise didnt make that choice, it indicates that Igor is very wary and has a high resistance to being charmed by cuteness, not the kind of low-quality Human that can be easily bewitched.


    But what if Lise called Ashe Daddy and Igor Mommy, is there a chance to drag Igor down too?


    Deya recalled Annans behavior and felt that the formidable woman would not mind adding another shackle to herself; she couldnt help but sigh internallyLise was still too cautious, otherwise they would have had two servants by now.

 Chapter 205: No, You Need to Play

    Chapter 205: No, You Need to y


    Lise was undoubtedly a sister with many ws.


    Primarily because Deya had not encountered many people, her database was filled with nothing but the Sorcerer Handbook or fairy tales. Having been captured by the Four Pirs Cult shortly after her transmigration, Deya had no choice but to model her sister after the protagonist from the fairy tale Little Witch, hastily creating a sister that matched the age and appearance required.


    Thus, Little Witch Lise was born.


    In fact, Lise Deya is not a name, but two positions. Whoever is in charge of controlling the body in reality takes on the role of Lise; whoever is responsible for actions in the Virtual Realm bes Deya.


    Their real names are actually those like Little Witch, Secret Princess, ck Butler, White Queen, Red Death Eater, and so on. However, actions in the Virtual Realm are generally led by the Secret Princess, making the name Deya almost exclusive to her.


    The name Lise used to belong to another sister, but now that her body has been cursed by the Bronze Dragon, she is no longer suitable for the role of Lise. Therefore, until she passes the Bronze Dragons Trial, Lise will likely remain the exclusive moniker for the Little Witch.


    Although the current Lise is somewhatcking, Deya has no intention of recing her.


    After all, a new sister needs to grow, and after personally experiencing a series of events, Lise should be more and more adapted to her environment. And even if Deya wanted to make a switch, she has no other candidates; the only one who fits the age is the Little Witch.


    In truth, the Little Witch has been doing quite well. If Deya herself were in control, she probably wouldnt have been able to get past the Four Pirs Cult, let alone engage in cunning exchanges with Annan.


    Deya was reading a book while chatting in a suppressed voice:


    Do you want to y? Whats there to y with? Isnt chatting with your sisters fun? Be good, wait until we enter the Virtual Realm, then you can y. Real time is precious and shouldnt be wasted on y.


    You dont like Annan? Thats normal, neither do I. Shes the same kind of person as the White Queen


    Mhm, Banjeet is indeed very dangerous, so you need to be careful around him. To protect Annans interests, he will definitely not show any mercy


    So, is there someone you do feel fond of? Igor? Bukin?


    What, father?


    Were talking; you dont need to use that term, right?


    Thats not kindness, thats just in stupidity. Thats why he fell for your spellcraft Alright, alright, you handle the daily interactions, as long as youre happy. But dont go soft, get a grip on Ashe as soon as possible; hes our best piece in the fight against Annan.


    Suddenly, a strange voice came from the side: Thirsty after such a long chat? Have a drink and rest for a bit.


    Oh, thank you.


    Princess Deya took it subconsciously and took a sip, then looked down and saw it was a ss of strawberry-colored unknown liquid. She turned her head and her pupils shook!


    How nice, siblings chatting.


    The Observer, dressed in a dark red coat, sat on the desk, resting his chin on his hands, and said, Its been a long time since I chatted with my brother and even longer since Ive yed with a naughty nephew


    You, you


    Witch, Id advise you not to be too loud, thedy of the house might have installed surveince equipment. The Observer said with a smile: Speak in your Inner Voice, I will hear your intent.


    Listening to the Inner Voice!?


    Butpared to the Observer being able to appear here, listening to the Inner Voice was only a trivial detail. Honestly, although she met the Observer in the Tower, Princess Deya hadnt taken him seriously.


    She thought the Observer was looking for Princess Lise Deya, but after receiving the Bronze Dragons Favor, Princess Lise Deya had disappeared, leaving behind only Lise, the little girl captured by the Four Pirs Cult.


    So Princess Deya never thought the Observer would be able to catch uphow could he find her when even the Gospel couldnt capture her past?


    What do you want?


    Dont be so nervous, Im not a good person, the Observer said leisurely: Look, didnt you agree to be my teammate?


    I didnt agree!


    But Witch, you dont have the right to refuse.


    Princess Deya wanted to say something else, but she suddenly remembered the Bronze Dragons Favor.


    The timing of the Observers appearance was incredibly opportune.


    Just as Deya decided to trigger the Bronze Dragons Favor, he suddenly materialized in the Tower bedroom, undetected by the sprawling defensive mechanisms protecting the capital, invisible even to the Sanctuary Sorcerers that covered every corner of the Pce.


    He seemed to be an existence that transcended this world.


    Aside from the Bronze Dragon, Deya had never encountered any other being that could match the Observers stature. While this could partly be due to Deyas limited exposure, the overwhelming pressure that the Observer exuded was not easily forgotten. Indeed, in her own mental realm, the Observer had forcefully shattered ityes, even the most powerful Red Death Eater and ck Butler, aside from the Secret Princess, had joined forces against him, but to no avail.


    Even though the Observer imed to be a Two Wings Sorcerer, merely inviting her to join a Virtual Realm Adventure, Deya didnt believe a single punctuation of his tale. She suspected he was merely masquerading as amoner in a game of mortals, pretending to be the pig, but with intentions of preying on some unsuspecting tiger.


    But why does he insist on clinging to me


    A thought suddenly sprang into Deyas mind: Could he too be influenced by the Bronze Dragon?


    Thats right, the trials set by the Bronze Dragon always had this characteristic: the oues were favorable, but the journey was invariably torturous. And, without a doubt, spending days with the Observer would qualify as sufficiently torturous.


    So that was it, the Bronze Dragon was up to his tricks again.


    With that realization, Deya saw no point in continuing her refusal. Alright, I agree to be yourpanion. What next?


    Since youre mypanion, isnt it natural that I have a responsibility to take care of you? asked the Observer.


    Deya felt there was a trap in his words: Theoretically yes.


    And now that youve be a child, doesnt it naturally follow that I should be one of your Guardians, obligated to look after your daily life?


    Of course not! Deya firmly shook her head. I dont need your care, go away, dont disturb my reading!


    Thats exactly why Im here, the Observer stated. Finish the rest of the strawberry juice too. Its a tonic, dont waste it.


    Before Deya could react, she picked up the cup and gulped down the rest of the mysterious liquid.


    Then, tidy up and behave like a well-mannered little friend.


    Deya was terrified to find that she couldnt control her own body, which was stuffing books back onto the shelves on its own.


    What are you doing? Why can you control my body? Mind Miracle?


    Let me go, I still have books to read!


    No, the Observer shook his finger, you need to go y.


    Im not really a child, what am I supposed to y with? Deya was almost frantic, Arent you supposed to let me study and practice to be stronger if Im your teammate? How does my ying help you?


    But you are a child now, and children should bnce work and y. Energetically y during the day and embark on perilous adventures at night, thats what good children do. The Observer pulled out a pair of gloves, But before you go to y, you need to wear gloves to keep your little hands clean


    Observer, have you lost your mind?


    Witch, you can be quite rude sometimes. The Observer tapped the gloves, and the adult gloves instantly transformed into a pair of pink childrens fingerless gloves, handing them to Deya to put on herself.


    Thats because you dont listen!


    Deya red at him huffily, her gaze darting to a mirror, and her expression suddenly became cute, Hey, Observer, why are you doing this to me?


    Oh, is it the Little Witch? The Observer remained calm, Its like this, Im controlling your body now, so you cant read books.


    Hmmph!


    And you cant go investigating Annan and Banjeet, nor can you try to turn Igor and Harvey.


    Oh!


    Under mypulsion, you can only go and y games with others, isnt that pitiful?


    It is so pitiful!


    So what are you waiting for? Go and y!


    Yay!

 Chapter 206: Youre So Annoying

    Chapter 206: Youre So Annoying


    Chosen One, huh


    In the Audio-visual Room, after watching the documentary Gospel at 8x speed, Igor wrote down the term in his notebook and circled it heavily.


    This documentary was shot in 1680, just eight years ago, and after setting aside the typical inclinations of such social science documentaries to pander to the audience, oversell achievements, and ignore the costs, it could serve as an essential reference for Igors actions within the Kingdom.


    The documentary revealed many points of interest, such as thepany Salome, responsible for manufacturing Gospel Items, like how each city divided into Race autonomous zones and multicultural districts, like the push for multiyered cities over the next thirty years to deepen urbanization, like the Gospel Kingdomsplete free education system, where Sorcerer colleges offer free tuition, room, and board to those who pass the entrance exams, and how the number of higher learning institutions increased from 89 to 135 within a hundred years, with annual enrollment numbers climbing year by year


    From the proportion of Igors notes, it was clear how much he envied the educational environment of the Gospel Kingdom. He was desperate to dismiss the free education as a mere gimmick, but the documentary proved him wrong time and again, forcing Igor to admitwhile he was burdened with student loans, asionally working part-time at Mud Caf, gritting his teeth to get through college, there was a whole bunch of lucky bastards enjoying a carefree rose-colored university life.


    So even though Igor sped up the yback, it still took him nearly half an hour to watch the documentarythe more he watched, the more he felt like his past was nothing but a life in the Sewer, so painful that he couldnt breathe and had to stop to catch his breath.


    He was the type easily consumed by jealousy, feeling sick to his stomach with disgust at the sight of others happiness, so much so that whenever he saw Ashes optimistic, foolish grin, he felt as if his eyes were being stabbed.


    But even in such a documentary, clearly made for celebration, Igor still caught a few unusual pieces of information.


    Firstly, there are no Churches in the Gospel Kingdom.


    While everyone knows that the Gospel is a Boon from the Omniscient Weaver, thats about as far as it goes. No one preaches the doctrines of the Omniscient Weaver, no one erects statues in its honor, and nobody can even form an Omniscient Weaver Study Groupbecause all one needs to do is open the Gospel and ask, to realize that theres no officially recognized Church.


    When you think about it, it makes sense. The foundation of the Church is God selects spokespersons to shepherd the world, which simplistically means this group owner is toozy, so they picked a manager to help oversee the group members. But the Omniscient Weaver isntzyprovided you have Points, the Gospel representing the Omniscient Weaver is avable 24/7 to listen to your drivel. How could any Churchpete with that level of service?


    In a sense, the Church is like a middleman profiting from the markup, whereas the Omniscient Weaver operates direct to consumer sales. Theres simply no fertile ground for the Church to exist.


    Secondly, although there are no Churches, the Gospel Kingdom does have an imperial Royal Family.


    Having heard of Royal Nobles in other kingdoms during his time in the Blood Moon Kingdom, Igor shouldnt be surprised. But the Gospel Kingdom is so advanced and prosperous that Igor finds it hard to understand why its still a monarchy rather than a democratic system?


    Even vampires know not to be dictatorial!


    However, the current ruling Yisuo Royal Family has been in power for 760 years, centralizing authority generation after generation. They have a firm grip on legitive, judicial, and executive powers. Violent armed forces like the Red Caps responsible for public security and Bluebeards for Suppressing the Abyss are led by royal appointees. All state decreese from the imperial capital Nabistin, such as the multiyered city strategy which is a new policy issued by the Royal Family. In essence, they have all military and political power in their hands.


    Logically, one might expect such an autocratic state to suffer from a bloated bureaucratic interest group that makes life miserable for its citizens, eventually leading to internal copse and dynastic changeindeed, the dynasties before the Yisuo Royal Family fell in just such a way.


    But for some reason, the Yisuo Royal Family has broken this cycle. Theyve not only continued for over seven centuries, but the nation has also developed at a breakneck pace, thoroughly outperforming the democratic Blood Moon Kingdom, leading Igor to question if perhaps autocracy is the only way forward for a Sorcerers kingdom.


    Third, while individuals in the Gospel Kingdom may have varying specific goals, their ultimate aim is the sameto ascend the Ranking List and be a Chosen One.


    The term Chosen One is a recurring theme throughout the documentary.


    Only Chosen Ones can pioneer new technologies, lead the times, and even attain happiness simr to the Blood Saint Moonshadow of the Blood Moon Kingdom, Chosen Ones are the privileged ss of the Gospel Kingdom.


    However, unlike the Nobles supported by the Divine Master in the Blood Moon Kingdom, Chosen Ones are nobility celebrated by themon people. And the threshold to be a Chosen One is quite low; simply rank on any Ranking List, and youre in.


    Even making it into the top ten in jump rope within your region qualifies you.


    But in some senses, the bar is incredibly highif youck sufficient Talent or effort, you wont stand a chance. Even if you do everything right, you must consider the course of history. If your era happens to produce many geniuses, itll be just as tough to break into the top ten.


    Unless you push even harder


    A thought strikes Igor.


    He finally understands what felt so familiar to him in the documentary.


    Despite all the good, the vibrant energy, the harmonious cooperation among Races, and the thriving society, Igor doesnt see the happy smiles that would make him envious on any of the faces.


    Every person and every statement in the film conveys the same message:


    Be the best!


    Be the strongest!


    Outperform your peers!


    Be number one in your field!


    Those not on the Ranking List are holding their breath and striving hard, while those who are listed dare not rx, to maintain their edge. The whole society is like a machine with infinite gears, with everyone spontaneously elerating in a frenzied sprint.


    You dont even have to fear losing your way; with a few Points, the Gospel is always there to guide you in the direction of your struggle.


    Despite the starkly different social atmosphere from the Blood Moon Kingdom, Igor feels a profound sense of familiarity.


    Its like flies discovering a pile of dung hidden in a cake.


    Intriguing, truly fascinating.


    Igor decides to watch a few more documentaries to gain aprehensive understanding of the Gospel Kingdom.


    Igor left the Audio-visual Room, nning to grab some snacks and drinks to sustain a long battle with the documentaries.


    As he passed by the novelty game room, Igor heard a sullen muttering from inside. Peering through the crack in the door, he spotted Lise with arge box of blocks in front of her, seemingly assembling a toy building block set.


    The little Drama Queen ying with blocks?


    From their interactions over the past couple of days, Igor had recognized Lises true naturecute on the outside but cunning on the inside. After all, she reminded him of himself as a child, using an adorable facade to gain adults trust while inwardly mocking their foolishness.


    Igor was certain that Lise belonged to the same breed as himpeople like them are never satisfied with simply entertaining themselves with toys.


    After all, once youve experienced the joy of fooling others, toys seem rather pointless.


    They dont get angry, they dont have warmth, and they dont scream; what value is there to y with such things?


    So what was Lise doing? Could it be that the blocks contained a secret of Annan? Or was she waiting for someone else toe by?


    Igor watched from behind the door as Lise seriouslypared the shapes of the blocks in her hands and started to assemble them whenever she found a suitable piece.


    One minute.


    Three minutes.


    Ten minutes.


    Fifteen minutes.


    Igor could no longer restrain himself. He burst in and pointed at the chaotically assembled blocks, The instructions are right there! Cant you follow them to y?! These are clearly castle blocks, and youve made them into a dungeon!


    Lise pouted at him without saying a word, only dragging the instruction manual over to look at it.


    Igor clenched his fists, his face filled with anger as he approached, You impolite little brat, it looks like I need to teach you a lesson


    Another fifteen minutes passed, and Ashe, tired from ying virtual games, decided to head to the kitchen to grab some drinks and snacks. As he passed the novelty game room, he heard arguing voices inside:


    This one obviously goes here, look at the instructions!


    Do you even know how to y, you dunce? Ive never seen a kid as clumsy as you!


    o()o Why did you pick such a huge block castle? This is not a project for just two people toplete!


    o(o) Youre so annoying.


    Ashe peeked through the door crack at the castle blocks, which didnt even have the foundation assembled, and walked away with a thoughtful expression.


    Then he brought Banjeet and Harvey.

 Chapter 207: The D20

    Chapter 207: The D20


    At 8 p.m., Annan returned home and entered the living room to find it deserted and dark, save for several cleaning robotic spiders scurrying about. At the sound of footsteps, they quickly retreated to their nests to recharge.


    Banjeet?


    Annan called out, but there was no response.


    From her birth, Banjeet had always taken care of her. Aside from his eternally youthful and delicate face, which was enough to make anyone envious, he had always impably fulfilled his duties as a butler, never neglecting his responsibilities.


    She had instructed Banjeet to stay home and watch over the new staff members. Where could he have gone?


    A sense of caution began to rise within Annancould it be that these people had found a way to negate the Contract Fabric and secretly freed themselves from its control, catching Banjeet off guard and harming him?


    She took off her Boots and, wearing silk stockings, silently stepped on the wooden floor, clutching the Miracle Procedure in her hand, searching for traces around the house.


    Soon, she noticed lighting from the novelty game room and heard voices of the new residents:


    Were almost there, its almost ready! Ashes voice sounded.


    Im nearly done too, came Igors voice, brimming with excitement.


    Me too Harveys voice, as if a Corpse were speaking, unexpectedly held a tinge of passion.


    Grr Come on, Im ready! Letsbine our efforts!


    Banjeet was in there too!


    And what was this conversation about!


    What were they nning tobine together!


    They were all men; how could they possiblybine!


    They mustnt take advantage of Banjeets cuteness and ravage him!


    What are you doing


    Annan tightened her grip on the Procedure, pushed the door open, and prepared herself to rescue the defiled Banjeet.


    Then she saw four adults and a child assembling a dark-colored, meter-tall Lego castle.


    Banjeet, Harvey, Igor, Ashe, and Lise all turned to look at Annan, blinking. Banjeet, who had been working on the middle section, immediately stood up: Youre back so early?


    Seriously, what are you all doing?


    Isnt it obvious? Ashe spread his hands. Were assembling Sky Canopy City.


    Annan recognized the Lego castle, of course.


    As a child, her father had bought many of theseplex, high-end Lego toys, wanting to assemble Sky Canopy City with Annan, but she had little interest in such toys. As a result, they were left gathering dust in the novelty game room. After Annan became the head of the Funeral Firm at the age of twelve, she never set foot in the game room again.


    What suddenly made you interested in ying with Legos?


    Ashe nced at Igor: I saw Igor, young at heart, ying with Legos with Lise, so I dragged everyone to join in. I didnt expect the Bewitcher to be so soft-hearted


    Igors face turned red: I just couldnt stand seeing Lise struggle with it for so long, I had to teach her! Actually, I was about to leave, but Ashe, you brought everyone here and got so engrossed, I stayed to look after your experience


    Ashe retorted: Bullshit, you were so hard on me when I made a mistake earlier, is that what you call looking after my experience?


    All of you who can barely understand the instructions shouldnt be criticizing each other, youre all trash. Harvey said unabashedly: If it werent for you guys holding me back, I would have finished this castle by now. Ive done a lot of work assembling broken parts intoplete wholes; this Lego is childs y. Back in my day


    Ashe covered Lises ears: Nobody here wants to hear about your glorious past!


    Annan was confused and asked, So youve just been ying with Legos until now?


    Yes. Banjeet nodded slightly, pulling out his pocket watch: I should also what, its already 8 oclock!?


    It seems to have gotten dark outside


    No wonder Im a bit hungry, I thought I just digested breakfast quickly.


    Daddy, Im so hungry I cant walk.


    Let Aunt Bukin carry you. Ashe quipped, then turned to look at the Sky Canopy City behind him: Should we take a photo tomemorate this, considering it took us an entire day


    Igor spoke in a cold voice, Im not in the habit of keeping visual records


    Ashe thought Igor was about to refuse and was about to mock him for being the most enthusiastic yer when he heard thetter change his tune: However, I have a clean te in the Kingdom of Gospel, so taking a photo should be fine.


    The Cult Leader blinked in surprise, looking at the Con Artist who was turning away, muttering an exnation to someone: Plus, this castle is quite spectacr


    Miss Annan, could you help us out? Harvey asked, taking out a Catnip Cigarette and cing it between his lips unlit.


    Of course, no problem. Purple Moth summoned her own Gospel, then stretched out her index fingers and thumbs to form a frame, capturing the five of them and Sky Canopy City within it.


    The next second, the scene appeared in her Gospel. She turned the Gospel around to show them, This way, the photo will also appear in your Gospels. I rmend you create a photo album in your Gospel and put important photos into it


    This kind of photo hardly counts as important. Igor walked away quickly, with Ashe leading Lise to find something to eat, Harvey went to the balcony to light his cigarette, and Banjeet lingeredst, asking: Annan, should I prepare dinner for you?


    Ive eaten; just take care of their dinner.


    Banjeet nodded, opened his Gospel to order takeout.


    Indeed, the Gospel Rings they provided to Ashe and the others were actually a collectors edition or a castrated version.


    The real Gospel Items had long since integrated multimedia functions, including Curtain (streaming), instant messaging, video viewing, forum discussions, and ordering takeout, to name a few. The Gospel Rings that only opened the Gospel, ornate essories, were actually luxury items that showcased ones status.


    Just as some people still buy watches even though they could simply open their Gospel to tell the timeBanjeet was one of those people, thinking pocket watches were stylishthere were many wealthy individuals who enjoyed purchasing Gospel Rings, Gospel Bracelets, and even Gospel sses that only had the function of opening the Gospel.


    As for why only Ashe and hispanions were allowed to open the Gospel That was, of course, to prevent them from contacting the outside world while still allowing them to experience the allure of the Gospel.


    Humans are social animals, andmunication is an extension of boundaries. When you see news from a thousand miles away, you are a thousand miles away; when youmunicate with others on the Curtain, you are not alone; when you see the tens of thousands of real human information streams in the Gospel Kingdom, your room bes the entire nation.


    Conversely, when they cannot leave, when they cannotmunicate with the outside world, then this house bes their entire world.


    With their vision confined within four walls, their ambitions cannot reach the wider world, so naturally, they can only turn their attention inward.


    Just as ancient courts often bred conspiracies and banquets were filled with deceit and trickery, Annan had long anticipated that Ashe and the others would plot to rebel against heror rather, this was the oue she had hoped for.


    The more they stirred in the shadows, the morepliant they appeared in the open.


    Bound by Contract Fabric, Annan had no fear of their rebellion. On the contrary, the more they obsessed over how to deal with her, the happier she was, because it meant they were wasting their energy on futile things.


    Conspiracy and suspicion are twins, and the shadow of revenge is called shortsightedness.


    When each of them became upied with negative emotions, Annan could easily sow discord, favor some, suppress others, and thus easily divide them, strengthening her control and using pce intrigue to drain their vitality.


    Although they had initially seen through her ploys, Annan had never given up on dominating these People from the Exotic Lands. She had simply made her ns longer, more covert, and more resistant.


    But no matter what, the first step was to fill their hearts with negative energy.


    Today, Annans visit to the Mermaid Pce was also a deliberate move to give them space to act freely. She had thought that when she returned home, these new employees might give her the cold shoulder, or perhaps greet her with smiles, or even someone might pledge loyalty to her.


    She had prepared for every contingency but was still stunned by this group of people.


    Why are you all ying with building blocks so happily together!


    The five of you together are over a hundred years old!


    Arent you worried about your futures? Dont you long for the Divine Masters Wish? Dont you want to resist the constraints of Contract Fabric? I gave you the opportunity to band together, and youre actually ying with building blocks, even dragging Banjeet into it!


    Annan looked down at the photo in the Gospel, where the five stood before Sky Canopy City. Banjeet stood with proper posture, Harvey had a cigarette dangling from his lips, Igor fidgeted awkwardly, Ashe squatted down and shed a V-sign, and Lise, though not quite understanding, copied him with a V-sign of her own


    Who had brought life to this stagnant pool?


    Purple Moths gaze swept over the new employees faces, finally resting on Ashe and Lise.


    The delivery arrived promptly, and the drone thoughtfully ced the steaming Redme L Fatty on the table. Ashe had just sat down when he stood up again: Save some Redme L Fatty for me, Im going to


    Stop, dont say it, just go, no onespeting with you, Igor cut off Ashes incantation decisively.


    Lise, ravenous, couldnt wait to stuff a piece of cake into her mouth, ending up with cream all over her face. Lise, desserts are for after the meal, Igor said gently, Come on, eat the L Fatty first.


    Igor took the initiative to carve up the most sulent food, serving Harvey, himself, Banjeet, and Lise, and then there was none left.


    Youre targeting Dad again, Aunt Bukin


    If youre not eating it, give it to me, Ill take the hit, Igor said, looking around with a threatening re at Harvey and Banjeet.


    Harvey didnt seem to care and started eating heartily.


    Banjeet appeared to have little appetite but, to be polite, licked the L Fatty.


    After pondering for a moment, Lise decided it was better to eat it herself than give it to Igor, so she dug in with gusto.


    Having fun?


    Lise blinked, turning her head to see the Observer sitting in Ashes seat, and was about to speak when the Observer raised a finger to his lips: Say it in your heart, I can hear you.


    Fun! Lise thought: Observer brother, youre amazing, can no one else see you?


    Just like Deya, no one else can see me, said the Observer, leaning in to sniff the aroma of the L Fatty, Speaking of which, where is the Witch?


    The Princess? Shes inside, fussing about changing ces, Lise replied: But I want to finish eating first.


    Hmm, it is indeed time to change, especially since the next activity is rather violent and gory, not suitable for you, Lise.


    What activity?


    Before that, lets settle your entertainment results for today!


    The Observer flipped his hand and pulled out a D20.


    He tossed it lightly, and the die rolled several times on the dining table before settling on an 8.


    Todays Entertainment evaluation is extraordinary, +7 Points; Lise, youre in a good mood, +5 Points; Lise, you have a Luck Check +10, so you get to roll an extra D10 for additional Points


    With a light tap from the Observer, the D20 instantly turned into a D10, which after a gentle roll, came to rest on a 3.


    Your total Points for today are 7+5+3=15 Points. The Debauched Prince only scored 8 Points, so Lise, today youve earned the Debauched Princes admiration and also gained 150% Fist and w Faction experience.


    As soon as the Observer finished speaking, Lise felt as if ice cream had melted in her mind, and the sweet knowledge flowed ceaselessly into her consciousness.


    She paused, suddenly picking up a stainless steel spoon and staring at her reflection on it.


    Then, with a serious expression, she looked straight at the Observer: Why do I feel like Im absorbing knowledge in the Virtual Realm? Observer, who exactly are you?


    Is it the witch? Actually, I prefer chatting with the Little Witch, the Observer said leisurely. In any case, I arranged for you to y for your own good, since you cant practice normally with that posture. Its not just about toying with youat least not entirely.


    Not entirely, so what proportion is it?


    Roughly 76.85% but thats beside the point. The Observer pped his hands. Entertainment is over, now for the main event, which just so happens to be a task suitable for a witch like you toplete.


    Deya was somewhat nervous: What task?


    Battle, the Observer uttered a cruel word.


    Observer, you should know that in my current posture I have nobat ability


    But I want you to fight, the Observer said coldly. You know, this isnt an order, but you cant refuse.


    Deya took a deep breath, suppressing the desire to argue: Whos the target?


    The target is


    The Observer raised his hand.


    Pointing towards the Restroom in use.

 Chapter 208: The Long-Awaited Meeting

    Chapter 208: The Long-Awaited Meeting


    Lise, who gave you the courage to challenge me?


    Merely pebbles, not even worthy of half my attention.


    You are seeking death!


    Igor watched as the words Victory and Defeat Decided shed across the Holographic Screen. He scribbled on a notepad beside him, 5:2, I dere the winner is Lise


    Wait! Ashe grabbed the Con Artists pant leg, his face a plea for mercy: Make it eleven rounds, six wins. Change it to eleven rounds, six wins. Lets continue the battle, I can turn this around! I already know how to y now. Next round is my turn!


    Harvey, who had retreated to a corner to nibble on catnip, couldnt help but interject, Ashe, theres no point in embarrassing yourself further, you cant even beat a little girl


    Ashe retorted with stubborn pride, Im just not used to the game controller in this world, and this cushion is too soft. Plus, Igor keeps distracting me, thats why I


    Feeling utterly embarrassed, Igor covered his face and whispered to Banjeet beside him, Ive said it several times before, but I must reiterateAshe is an exception. Please dont judge our entire Kingdom by his actions.


    The Butler Youth, typically maintaining an almost-smiling expression, now struggled to keep hisposure, his eyes nearly creasing into slits with suppressedughter: Mr. Ashe, perhaps I should have a round against Lise. You can see how I handle this character


    No!


    Lise suddenly shouted: I will battle him. I must defeat him thoroughly!


    Hmph, youll soon pay for your arrogance! Ashe bellowed, hastily beginning the next round of the Sorcerer Duel.


    During the meal, Lise, for some reason, suddenly suggested a battle with Ashe.


    Everyone found it a bit peculiar, yet no one stopped them. Banjeet even volunteered to arrange the mode of battlefor them to y the ssic Sorcerer Duel 14.


    The Sorcerer Duel series, a legendary game in the Gospel Kingdom for the past thirty years, allows yers to control various legendary sorcerers inbat.


    Not just ordinary people are fans of the game, even sorcerers are devout yersIn fact, it could be said that almost every Battle Sorcerer under thirty in the Gospel Kingdom has been influenced by this game, with many dreaming of possessing the same formidable powers as the characters within, even affecting the ratio of sorcerers throughout the Kingdom.


    The most popr characters in the Sorcerer Duel series are Alchemy Overlord and Earth Empress. The former can craft mechanical figures barehanded mid-battle, summon swords by the thousands, andmand the elements of water, fire, wind, and lightning, mastering all factions within the Alchemy Faction. Thetter alters the terrain with every move, executing attacks with utmost spectacle. Add to that the Earth Empresss beauty, and its no wonder shes a favorite among countless yers.


    Thus, in the Gospel Kingdom, the Alchemy and Earth Factions boast the most members. Of course, they soon realize theyve been deceivedthe Alchemy Faction at the Silver Realm level mainly consists of Creator Sorcerers, severelycking inbat skills; the career prospects for the Earth Faction often involve joining engineering corps, where one can forget about queens; in the wilderness working on projects, even a female cat is a rare sight.


    However, because these two factions have so many sorcerers, theyve even created a demographic dividend, allowing the urbanization of the Gospel Kingdom to progress so rapidly over the past thirty years that there are enough people to build multi-level cities Ah?


    I digress, Ashe and Lise are currently battling it out in Sorcerer Duel 14, though neither has chosen a popr character.


    Lise is ying as the Time Witch, and while by name a mistress of time, for bnce purposes, this character primarily uses throws and close-range boxing, offering a strong sense of hit but without shy special effects.


    Ashe has chosen the Wandering Sword Saint, and since Swordcerers are a minority in the Gospel Kingdom, this character, while also quite strong, hascklusterbat effects and thus doesnt see much poprity among yers.


    Igor isnt particrly interested in thesebat games; his reason foring was Banjeet.


    He discreetly observes the Butler Youth, noting his intense focus on the battle between Ashe and Lise, plus the fact that it was Banjeet who had actively rmended the game. Curious, Igor leans towards Banjeet and asks, Do you really like this game?


    Not really Banjeet admits, a rare blush of youthfulness on his face: Im just somewhat happy.


    Why are you happy?


    Because this game is in my y with Kids in the Future collection.


    Igor nced at Banjeet, whose youthful physique seemed not yet fully developed, and decided to file away this sad question forter.


    If there ever came a time when Igor found himself at odds with Banjeet, he could use this query to embarrass him.


    But Igors attention was now more on Lise than on Banjeet.


    The white-haired little girl was staring intently at the Holographic Screen, her fingers skillfully manipting the joystick and buttons. She was bing increasingly adept at specting, countering, and breaking defenses, as she controlled the Time Witch to pummel the Wandering Sword Saint.


    Igor could tell that this was her first time ying the game; her initial handling was quite rough, and she was suppressed by Ashe, who had somepetitive gaming skills.


    But by the second round, she had improved rapidly, forcing Ashe to rely on the Wandering Sword Saints defense-breaking moves to narrowly defeat her. By the third round, she had figured out how to counter various skills, and from then on, she went on a winning streak, crushing Ashe.


    Igor had thought she would stop after winning one round, then act cute and let Ashe win, but unexpectedly, she didnt give him any quarter. Whenever Ashe came looking for trouble, she would fiercely retaliate.


    Although someone like Ashe indeed deserved a harsh beating, this was not consistent with Lises usual styleshe was like Igor, driven only by self-interest. Winning over Ashe didnt offer her any benefits other than satisfaction.


    She had been carefully ying her cute card to win everyone over. Even though everyone saw through her act, she was just too adorable.


    Not to mention, her sess in tricking Ashe into bing her ve was 99% due to her being a white-haired loli and only 1% due to Ashes stupidity.


    Just as men like Green Tea and women fall for scumbags, fools love Igor. If victims im deep down they dont know what kind of person the other is, its definitely a lie. The perpetrator provides an emotional experience that no one else can offer, so the victims dont want to think about itthey just wish the dream wouldst a little longer.


    However, Lises behavior now was somewhat breaking character: not only did she not give Ashe any face, fighting very seriously, but she also seemed to call out Ashes name directly Did she no longer want to use Ashe as a shield? But even wet toilet paper has its uses, so it seemed too early to cast aside Ashe the ve, right?


    Igor wasnt sure if it was because Lise had beaten Ashe, or because she seemed so genuine, but now he found her quite endearing.


    The oue is decided!


    6:2 now, Ashe, are you aiming for a ten-loss streak?


    Ive let you win six rounds, its time to show my real skills


    As long as youre happy.


    At 10 p.m., Deya, having taken a shower and wearing her pajamas, copsed tiredly onto her bed. Unfortunately, her hair was long and would take a while to dry, so she couldnt go straight to sleep.


    However, sleeping wasnt her job; it was Lises.


    If it hadnt been for Lise identally bumping her head and passing outst night, Deya would have already attempted Exploration in Virtual Realm.


    Annan had given them enough freedom, and with Lise helping cover for her by sleeping, Deya wasnt afraid of anyone discovering she was a Two Wings Sorcerer  even inside the Pce Tower, she could explore the Virtual Realm right under the watchful eyes of the Sanctuary in Legend.


    Deya sat in front of the mirror brushing her hair and said, You need to go to sleep nicelyter, dont read, dont go looking for others, and if something happens, find a chance to contact me in the Virtual Realm.


    Lise, reflected in the mirror, pouted: I also want to y Sorcerer Duel with daddy


    Hes so bad at it, youd be better off ying with Banjeet.


    I like beating the weak! Isnt it fun to bully the small? Banjeet looks strong, it would definitely be a loss ying against him, no fun.


    Yikes, youre so naughty By the way, Ashe seems to have some Points left, why dont you trick him into a duel tomorrow and take them all?


    Suddenly, a familiar and frightening voice came from behind: Witch, dont tempt the child into gambling, eh? If you dont have a good opponent, how about ying a game with me next time?


    Deya turned around sharply, finding no one behind her.


    However, when she turned back around, she saw in the mirror that sitting on the bed behind Lise was that man whom everyone both hated and feared!


    The Observer!


    Good evening, witches, the Observer saidzily with his arms crossed in front of his chest, reflected in the mirror. Did you have a good day today?


    (*^^*) Not happy! Lise said fiercely. Dont do that again tomorrow! Otherwise, Ill start hating you!


    The Observer replied with feigned anger, Little Witch, how dare you speak to me with such insolence. Tomorrow, I will make sure you have no time for studying and can only y to your hearts content


    Enough, you two, Deya said with an expression of disbelief, turning to the Observer. Ivepleted your task. I fought Ashe and defeated him. Youre not going to deny me any personal time, are you?


    The battle I was referring to probably wasnt quite what happened but as long as you learned something, I dont mind, the Observer replied, spreading his hands. See, I can be quite reasonable.


    Reasonable, as in not giving me any choice, barging into a young girls roomte at night without asking, forcing a child to stop studying to y a game? If thats considered reasonable, then even Ashe, who is somewhat reluctant to follow orders, could be considered a truly loving father.


    Deya thought sarcastically, then suddenly remembered that the Observer could hear her internalints, so she quickly changed the subject: What could I possibly learn from ying games with Ashe?


    Having experienced the Time Witchs style of battle, dont you think you could incorporate it into your own fighting system?


    Thats just a game Deya started to say, but then stopped, thoughtful. She stood up and made a few gestures in the open space, her expression gradually turning serious.


    The Observer spoke leisurely, The Sorcerer Duel series has be the most widespread game in the Kingdom of Gospel and has inspired countless people to be sorcerers for a reason.


    Deya nodded excitedly, Youre right, Im going to try it out in the Virtual Realm


    Thats exactly why I came to find you, said the Observer.


    Deya paused, seeing the Observer sitting on the windowsill, looking down at the bustling city below.


    Have you forgotten? The reason Ive been pranking you is that I need you to be mypanion in Exploring the Virtual Realm.


    You just said you were pranking me?


    You heard wrong, I said guiding you. The observers tone didnt change a bit: Since everyone is free tonight, why dont we officially start Exploring the Virtual Realm? But youll need to wait a moment, we need to prepare.


    Is it really true?


    Does he really want to invite me to join them in Exploring the Virtual Realm?


    But isnt the Virtual Realm meant for one person only


    Although Deya wanted to question the authenticity of this, the apocalypse observers actions over the past two days undoubtedly proved that he does what he says  he said to let Lise y, and not for a second could she stop; he said to have Deya Battle Ashe, and before the game was over, her hands couldnt leave the controller.


    The observer had no need to tell a lie that could be exposed immediately.


    Deya was silent for a moment: Then what do you need me to do?


    You dont need to do anything.


    The figure of the observer gradually faded, leaving only one sentence:


    The sacred Destiny connects us, and we will meet in the Virtual Realm soon.


    On the other side, Ashe, after his bath,y in bed immersed in the ocean of knowledge, holding a book titled The Complete Guide to the Sorcerer Duel Series.


    As Ashe fantasized about how he would use abo to defeat Lise tomorrow, his Gospel popped out on its own.


    A red exmation mark appeared in the upper right corner of the Mine section, and anyone with a touch of OCD would want to click it, and then three messages appeared.


    Auroras Sorcerer Handbook haspleted device binding and data transfer! yers can now log into the game with this device, with resolution increased to ultra-high definition, and Operator Portraits enhanced with dynamic CG effects.


    Operator apocalypse observer Soul health has been restored to 100%.


    Operator Death Maniac Swordswoman Soul health has been restored to 100%.


    Ashe blinked his eyes.


    What is this? The game migrated itself to the new device, the Gospel, without his knowledge, and even added dynamic CG?


    This isnt just progress, its evolution!


    From a money-grabbing mobile game to a slightly more conscientious money-grabbing mobile game.


    Butpared to the huge transformation of the game, Ashe cared more about thest two messages!


    Complete Soul recovery means they can finally start Exploring the Virtual Realm tonight!


    In other words


    Its finally time to meet.

 Chapter 209: Our Dorm is Simply Unbeatable

    Chapter 209: Our Dorm is Simply Unbeatable


    Cheers!


    Inside the Secret Garden, the four members of Swordflower Dormitory sat in the hall, raising their sses in celebration.


    The booths were packed today, so they opted for a small table in the hall. The surrounding students were sneakily ncing their way, but the group had grown ustomed to the attention. If anyone considered approaching them, a mere sweeping nce from the girls was enough to wisely send them off to the Restroom to check their own reflections.


    Four days ago, under the watchful eyes of many, Sonya challenged Leoni once again.


    This time, Leoni didnt give any ground, instead seeing Sonya as a formidable rival and dly epting the challenge. Both donned their Star Robes and wielded sharpened longswords, unleashing their full potential in a dazzling disy of skill!


    Four medical sorcerers were arranged on-site, fearing the sh of these two sword saint hopefuls might end prematurely due to injury.


    Swordcerer versus Swordcerer, sharpness against sharpness!


    Although both their Star Robes were ultimately torn, the instructors dered a draw. But everyone knew that from that moment on, the Red-haired Swordswoman had used the Orange Dancer as a stepping stone to be the unrivaled pride of Swordflower College!


    After all, Leoni had been a Silver Sorcerer for over two years, while Sonya had not even reached one month!


    Sonyas previous feat of disarming Leoni could have been dismissed as luck, but this was a head-to-head battle where both gave their all. Even the most obstinate critic, ustomed to nitpicking at construction sites, could only question Sonyas beauty, not her strength!


    And Sonya was still in her freshman year. Many believed she would reach the rank of Golden Sorcerer before graduation.


    Even at Truth College, where geniuses gathered, students who stepped onto the Time Continent before graduation were seen as the most brilliant shooting stars. For first-year students at Swordflower College, their college life was destined to pale in the starlight of the Red-haired Swordswoman.


    Some even felt that their greatest achievement in life might well be having been ssmates with Sonya Therave.


    If someone is slightly ahead of you, you might feel jealous; but if theyre so far ahead that theyre out of reach, you cant help but admire them. You might even be an ardent fan, eagerly hoping theyll achieve even greater honors in the future, so you can brag about the rare connection you have with them.


    Its said that within the walls of the school, a Fan Club for Sonya Therave has emerged. Theyre still debating whether to call themselves Sonyas Fans or Theraves Peeps.


    On the other hand, given Sonyas high profile, her roommates naturally became the center of attentionafter all, Sonya had be an untouchable prodigy, admired from afar with no one daring to approach. But if you could befriend Sonyas friends, wouldnt that be an indirect way to join her circle?


    People were surprised to find that Sonya had a group of Treasure roommates.


    Engulite hardly needed mentioning; apart from Felix and Sonya, she was the top student in the Swordsmanship Department, diligent and valiant.


    Lois was one of the most dazzlingly beautiful girls in the Water Department. After Sonya switched to the Swordsmanship Department, the one of could be dropped.


    Adelle was even more impressive; she was the initial founder of Sonyas Fan Club. Leveraging her identity as Sonyas roommate, she unquestionably became the Chairman of the Fan Club, the number one fan of the Red-haired Swordswoman.


    With Adelles subtle influence, the moniker Swordflower Dormitory spread throughout the college. Everyone knew that Sonyas dorm was a ce of outstanding talent, a small dormitory that produced four blossoms of Swordflower College. The college had indeed struck gold with them, and they were destined to be the top pop group in Gales


    Faced with the mounting attention, Sonya and Lois naturally relished it. They were performer personalities who thrived on the sense of superiority and energy they drew from others gazes, going to school each day as if they were energized by a vitality bullet.


    Although Adelle wasnt as bold as the other two, she also enjoyed the spotlight, boasting about the love letters expressing admiration she received each day.


    Initially, Engulite was not ustomed to such attention. When she was approached during her morning training runs, it annoyed her.


    But after being transformed by Sonya and Loisgetting a new hairstyle, groomed eyebrows, and more ttering, in workout clothesEngulites natural good looks began to catch up with the others. She was just a notch below Adelle, and with Adelles continuous weight gain, surpassing her was not a far-off dream.


    Having be more attractive, Engulite was shy at first but quickly grew more confident. She began to handle the attention with ease and even started learning skincare and sun protection tips from Sonya.


    Makeup is a womans armor, and admiration is a mans surrender. Engulite had not cared about her appearance before, thinking a sword practitioner need not waste time on such things. But that didnt mean she didnt want to be beautiffter all, her initial aspiration to be a sword practitioner was inspired by Droses portrayal of a handsome Female Swordcerer in the Holographic Screen.


    Beautiful, elegant, and powerful! That was the Female Swordcerer that Engulite aspired to be!


    With the help of Sonya and Lois to avoid missteps, Engulite found that it took very little time each day to maintain a look that outshone 90% of her peers without neglecting her daily training. Naturally, she was pleased to join the ranks of the beautiful girls, achieving one-third of her Female Swordcerer dream.


    And tonight, Engulite took another step closer to her dream.


    Its amazing, our dormitory has produced two sorcerers before the end of our freshman year, Adelle said with a flushed face, giggling with pride. Our dormitory is just too impressive!


    In tonights training session, as Engulites sword struck the tenth ring of the armor stands, a resonance phenomenon urred. She autonomously summoned her first Lifeline Spirit, bing the second Official Sorcerer in the dormitory!


    Its Sonya and Engulite who are amazing, what does it have to do with you? Lois said unapologetically, exposing Adelles shamelessness. However, she was curious and turned to the newly advanced Female Swordcerer, Engulite, may we see your Lifeline Spirit?


    Actually, theres not much to see, Engulite said modestly, yet she extended her hand willingly, and a Lifeline Spirit holding a sharp de appeared in her palm.


    This is a sh Sword spirit, Adelle remarked, gazing at it in surprise. Huh? Even though its a spirit you summoned yourself, why does it look like a man? Could it be that Engulite, youre actually a man in disguise? No wonder your chest is so


    Autonomously summoned spirits are rted to the inner projections of the sorcerer. If you didnt pay attention in ss, dont spout nonsense, Lois interrupted, smacking Adelle on the head. Maybe Engulite thinks male Swordcerers are stronger?


    Thats right, Engulite admitted openly. Although I believe Im no less capable than men, Im also aware that men generally possess superior strength and agility. I need to put in extra effort to surpass my male peers. Sometimes I wonder if my path as a Swordcerer would have been smoother if I were a man


    Actually, once you be an Official Sorcerer, the impact of individual talents like strength and agility bes negligible, Sonya said while munching on chicken pops. A sorcerers strength is determined by their spirit, arcane energy, and Faction Realm. Gender is inconsequential. Havent Ipletely outyed Felix without him having a chance to retaliate? Theres no need to feel inferior.


    I understand that; Im familiar with these principles, Engulite said with an apologetic smile. But some notions are hard to shake off immediately. Only when I be stronger and gain enough confidence to affirm myself, can I rid myself of these insecurities Thank you for your concern.


    Sonya stared nkly at Engulite for a few seconds before turning to Lois. Just wait, shell eventually reach a pinnacle thats beyond our reach. This woman possesses a power thats even greater than Talent.


    It will be the two of you reaching heights beyond our reach, Lois retorted.


    Its the three of us, Adelle corrected. Lois is about to summon her Hydrotherapy spirit too.


    You still have the nerve to talk! Lois punctuated each pause with a knock on Adelles head. I told you to practice with me and you wouldnt; youd lie in bed watching shows. I told you to join me for self-study and you refused; youd lie in bed watching shows. If you keep this up, I doubt youll even enter the Virtual Realm before graduation. What will you do if you cant graduate?


    Then Ill just get married, Adelle said, covering her head.


    And then what? Be ady of leisure who only knows the pleasures of life?


    Besides the pleasures of life, I can continue to lie in bed at home and watch shows.


    You


    Watching Lois almost pull Adelles face into a pancake, Sonya thought for a moment and said, Adelle, I know youre not interested in Water Art, maybe you chose the wrong Magical Faction But after studying for over a year, you should be close to the Silver Realm. Just push a little harder and youll step into the Virtual Realm. Once there, you can slowly choose a new Faction, there must be a Magical Faction that youll love in this world.


    Just like Engulite, you know all the grand principles, but cant apply them to yourself So I can only tell you, the Virtual Realm is a really fun and interesting ce. Whats described in books doesnt evene close to one ten-thousandth of the Virtual Realm. We Sorcerers venture into the Virtual Realm every night, not just to be stronger, but because its an activity far more enjoyable than lying in bed watching shows.


    And, Sonya delivered the killer blow, once Lois steps into the Virtual Realm as well, our daily topics might gradually be about the ins and outs of Exploration in the Virtual Realm. By then, if you havent soaked yourself in the Sea of Knowledge, you might not be able to join in our conversations.


    Adelle fell silent for a moment, then chugged a ss of wine and dered with a ha, Alright, alright, from tomorrow on I wont watch shows anymore!


    Tomorrow? Lois raised an eyebrow.


    Ill binge-watch the series Im following tonight to finish it Okay, okay, Ill stop watching from now on! For you guys, this small sacrifice is nothing!


    Its for yourself!

 Chapter 210: Who Is She?

    Chapter 210: Who Is She?


    As they bickered yfully, Sonya raised her ss towards Engulite: Congrattions on entering the world of Sorcerers.


    Its my honor. Engulite clinked sses with her and took a sip before admitting, Actually, Im a bit scared.


    Scared of what?


    Scared of exploring the Virtual Realm alone. Engulite exined, The books all say that when Sorcerers first enter the Virtual Realm, the unfamiliar environment, omnipresent dangers, and theck of anypanions can lead to self-tormenting panic.


    Being alone in the ocean, without anyone to rely on, without a goal to pursue, and with the possibility of vicious Knowledge Creatures emerging from the white mist at any moment, plus the deep secrets lurking in the sea that cant be explored Just thinking about it is terrifying.


    It is said that some Sorcerers cant handle this fear and would rather stand still than enter the Virtual Realm.


    Dont let appearances fool you, I dont have much experience living on my own. Besides killing a brown bear that broke into the yard when I was sixteen, I dont really have any notable battle achievements. I imagine itll take me quite some time to adapt to thebat pace of the Virtual Realm. Engulite looked at Sonya: Speaking of which, you seempletely unaffected, entering the Virtual Realm enthusiastically every night, and youre always in a great mood.


    Adelle muttered under her breath, I always feel like Engulite is somehow elevating the averagebat power of a sixteen-year-old girl


    If it werent for people seeing youe out of the Meditation Tower, wed think you were out on a date, Lois chimed in with her own tease.


    Is there any secret you can share? Engulite blinked, Or perhaps you have some advice for neers about to enter the Virtual Realm?


    Lois and Adelle perked up their ears, hoping Sonya could offer some unwritten cheat code they could use.


    Sonya paused, suddenly falling into a long silence.


    Engulite exchanged nces with the others, cautiously adding, Sonya, I was just joking


    Ah, sorry, Sonya said, swirling her drink. I just got distracted by something else Well, the reason I adapted to the Virtual Realm so quickly is because


    She could have told any minor lie here, or even cracked a joke, like Going to the Virtual Realm means not having to listen to Adelle snore back at the dorm. But perhaps it was the slight buzz from the alcohol, or an inexplicable resentment bubbling inside her, that Sonya couldnt help but blurt out the truth: because Ive been going on dates in the Virtual Realm.


    Everyone blinked.


    Dates in the Virtual Realm?


    The rustic girl instantly regretted her words and wanted to rify, but suddenly she stood up abruptly.


    Whats gotten into you now?


    My Soul is healed, Sonya clenched her fists firmly.


    What? Lois quickly caught on: You mean your Soul has recovered? But its only been seven days


    What time is it now? Sonya cut her off urgently.


    Adelle nced at the clock in the hall: Its 10:45 PM.


    Then theres still time. Goodbye, Im heading to the Virtual Realm!


    Before the others could process her words, Sonya was already rushing out of the Secret Garden, moving so fast one might suspect she had used some spirit magic.


    Is the Virtual Realm really that exciting Adelle was astonished: I wasnt even this excited for my first date when I was 15.


    What did she mean by going on dates in the Virtual Realm? Lois asked, perplexed. Dates usually involve two people, so who is she meeting?


    I understand now.


    You do?


    Lois and Adelle turned to Engulite, who had an expression of sudden realization.


    What Sonya meant is that she has a date with the ying Fish-Dragon, the Mud Fish Dragon, the Umbre Bird-Dragon; in other words, she wants to conquer these Knowledge Creatures, Engulite exined seriously. What drives her to adapt to the Virtual Realm and keep moving forward is the unyielding spirit of a warrior deep within her heart! Truly worthy of being the pride of Swordflower College, her spiritual cultivation has already surpassed that of an ordinary Swordcerer!


    Lois felt that Engulites interpretation might be off, but she didnt have a better exnationcould Sonyasment about a date really be taken at face value?


    Tap. Tap. Tap.


    Tap tap. Tap tap. Tap tap.


    Tap tap tap tap tap tap


    It started with a brisk walk, but soon turned into a jog, and before long, she was running down the school path.


    The night scenery of the campus flew by swiftly on both sides, the Stars overhead guiding her path. Sonya didnt care about maintaining her image; she ran wildly, the cool breeze gently caressing her face, her shadow urging her to run even faster.


    Sometimes, walking was simply too slow.


    Her Soul had recovered, so that meant the Observers Soul must have recovered as well.


    Since they both perished in the Virtual Realm in the same way, the amount of Soul they lost must be the same.


    Yesterday morning, after waking up andbing her hair, Sonya noticed a bottle on her desk that looked like sparkling watera Potion, with a note underneath it stating Pure Radiance Special Drink and exining that this drink could restore the Soul and elerate the absorption of arcane energy.


    Sonya knew at once that it was a gift from the Observer. While internallyining about why the Observer didnt show up in person, she gulped down the drink.


    As for whether the Observer might have drunk the Potion first and already recovered his Soul, Sonya never considered itnot least because the Observer had no ability to enter the Virtual Realm on his own. His recovery was meaningless without Sonya opening the Gate of Truth for the Exploration in Virtual Realm.


    Moreover, she had a strong conviction: If the Observer found something valuable, his first reaction would be to give it to her, not to keep it for himself!


    So what worried Sonya was whether the Pure Radiance Special Drink was the only bottle, and whether the Observer had not yet fully recovered his Soul. And whether the Observer had managed to escape from prison, what his current situation was, whether he had a safe haven to enter the Virtual Realm, whether he was well-fed, or if he was hurt


    Why wouldnt hee to see me?


    He used to bother me so often


    Could it be that his current situation was so perilous that he couldnt even spare a moment to visit me?


    But no matter what, she had to keep her promise.


    Even if the Observer didnte, she would wait for him in the Virtual Realm.


    Meanwhile, Felix, who felt that the atmosphere at home was still not as good as at the Meditation Tower, chose to drive to the Tower to clock in for work tonight.


    He had just gotten out of his car when he saw a redhead rushing into the Meditation Tower at an incredible speed, leaving the Noble young master staring in bewilderment.


    She was a Silver Full-Wing, wasnt she even for someone of her stature, dying once should require at least half a month to recover. Yet now, not even seven days have passed Even if her Soul had healed, was there such a rush to enter the Virtual Realm?


    However, Felix quickly remembered the beating he had suffered at Sonyas hands a few days ago, and a thought suddenly crossed his mindcould it be that Sonya was in a hurry to enter the Virtual Realm to ughter Knowledge Creatures?


    With her temperament, she might just earn the favor of the Lord of a Billion Brilliances


    Maybe I should


    While Felix was pondering whether to rmend the rustic girl within the Religion, Sonya had already entered the Meditation Room, sat down cross-legged, summoned the Vibration Sword spirit, captured the Gate of Truth, and connected to the world of the Virtual Realm!


    Arrival!


    When Sonya opened her eyes, she felt the solid ground beneath her feet, surrounded by a lush forest. nts secreted droplets of radiant golden liquid, flowing upwards towards the brilliant golden sky, transforming into curtains of dazzling rain, bathing everyone fortunate enough to step onto the Time Continent in the Reverse Golden Rain.


    But Sonya had no interest in the unique wonders of the Time Continent. The Red-haired Swordswomans gaze was entirely fixed on the man not far away in a deep red gradient coat.


    The Observer squinted slightly as he looked at her, the annoying man who hadnt sought her out for days now had the corners of his mouth turned up slightly, his arms spread as if wanting to embrace her.


    Her lips parted slightly, but she did not speak, and all the doubts and dissatisfaction in her heart dissipated like smoke.


    Her body moved involuntarily towards him, she reached out her hand toward the Observer


    And grabbed his throat.


    Sonya nced at the ck-and-White Witch Deya, who was as beautiful as she was, then her eyes fixed directly on Ashe.


    Who is she?

 Chapter 211: My Favorite Is Still You

    Chapter 211: My Favorite Is Still You


    On the Time Continent, an exceedingly rare scene was unfoldingthree Sorcerers were gathered together.


    Even though the active Area of the Time Continent is much less than the Sea of Knowledge, the Time Continent itself remains vast. Coupled with the scarcity of Two Wings Sorcerers and the Reverse Golden Rain obscuring visibility, encounters among Sorcerers on the Time Continent were no more frequent than in the Sea of Knowledge, with everyone navigating as if through a dark forest.


    But starting today, the sight of these three Sorcerers together might well be a daily urrence in the Time Continent.


    Feeling the grip around his throat tighten, Ashe quickly said, Shes a Witch, a new member of our team. It wasnt easy to get her on board, and she will join us in Exploring the Virtual Realm from now on


    The next moment?


    Together?


    It wasnt easy to get her?


    Unspoken grievances and irritation rapidly swelled and simmered within, yet Sonyas expression remained unchanged, with only her eyes growing increasingly bright, the pale red pupils almost shifting to vertical slits.


    Ashe felt a sudden chill, an all-epassing fear pressing down on him as if he were under the scrutiny of the Blood Moon Tribunal. In a low voice, he quickly added, Dont worry, my favorite is still you!


    Huh?


    Sonya blinked, releasing Ashe and stepping back, her gaze wandering as she fidgeted with the hem of her garment, saying with an embarrassed tone, What are you even saying all of a sudden


    Swordswoman, our Bond is still the strongest, so you get first pick of any Experience Orbs we find, and Ill let you choose the best spirits first. Any other benefits will be yours to consider before the Witch or I take them, Ashe spoke earnestly. You dont have to worry about the Witchs arrival diminishing your ce in my eyes.


    Who cares about their ce in your eyes!


    Sonya muttered under her breath, then nced at Deya, who was curiously observing them. She moved slightly closer to Ashe and said in a hushed voice, I may not care but you better not be lying to me!


    Im not lying to you! Ashe dered with conviction: Unless the Witchs Bond with me bes stronger, or if she shows greater potential than you, resources will be prioritized in your favor!


    The Red-haired Swordswoman stiffened: So, youre saying if shes stronger than me


    As a team, the fundamental goal of resource allocation is to strengthen the team, Ashe didnt deny this fact: While I believe in your talents, Swordswoman, if you want to maintain your advantageous position within the team, youll also need to put in extra effort.


    Indeed, before entering the Virtual Realm, Ashe had an inkling that the Swordswoman would be upset, but he hadnt anticipated such an intense reaction.


    But putting himself in her shoes, Ashe felt the Swordswoman had every reason to be angryit was like in a startup, where your partner brings in someone new without discussing it with you first. How could you not be upset? How would shares be allocated? How would work be divided?


    While theoretically, a three-person squad works more efficiently than a two-person one, the rewards from the Virtual Realm can depend heavily on luck. Sometimes, Knowledge Creatures simply dont drop Experience Orbs, and Sorcerer Projections only drop worthless spirits. When the drop rate is poor, what can you do except curse your luck? And when the profits are disappointing, three people must divide the spoils, which can easily leave someone empty-handed, potentially leading to disputes.


    Ashe and the Swordswoman had spent time building a rapport and seldom quarreled over loot distribution. But now with an additional person, the dynamics were much moreplex. For instance, if two spirits dropped and both the Swordswoman and the new Witch could use them, even if the Swordswoman had the first pick and took one, wouldnt the neer take the second?


    Such an arrangement might seem reasonable at first nce, and the Swordswoman might even seem to be at an advantage. But the problem wasif there was no Witch, both spirits would be the Swordswomans!


    As an office worker who had spent years navigating the workce and witnessed office politics, Ashe understood the subtleties of human nature. The arrival of a neer who could help share the workload and improve departmental performance was a blessing, but it also meant a reshuffling of interests. The presence of a new person inevitably encroached upon the benefits of the existing members and could even affect the division of office factions.


    So, Ashe brought in the Witch, and was the Swordswoman expected to wee the new Operator with open arms?


    How is that even possible?


    To draw an imperfect analogy, its like a wife seeing her husband bring home a mistress to share the bedhow could she possibly be willing?


    The Swordswoman is not a truly selfless paper person; on the contrary, shes a highly sensitive interest-driven individual. In Ashes previouspany, even if she couldnt be an outstanding pioneer of internalpetition, at least she would be the kind of rights fighter who always recorded evidence to protect herself from being wronged by thepany.


    The Swordswoman would certainly worry about the Witch encroaching on her interests and fear the Witch recing her. Plus, since she doesnt control the Exploration in Virtual Realm, its natural for her to feel insecure and angryher anger is justified.


    People rarely notice what they gain but often fixate on what they lose.


    Ashe is not using the Swordswoman of being ungrateful or greedy. After all, greed is human nature, and he himself is no stranger to wanting more than his fair share. Who is born a saint? Who works not for more money? using subordinates ofcking gratitude is something only apany on the verge of copse would do. Team management is a profound discipline.


    So he cant suppress the Swordswoman with grand principles. Instead, he needs to analyze from her perspective the pros and cons of the Witch joining the team. At the same time, he should motivate her by painting a picture of sessif she doubles her efforts in internalpetition, she will always be the brightest star in the team.


    But thats all Ashe can do.


    Ashe can offerfort to the Swordswoman, but he wont indulge her.


    No matter how strong their rtionship is, even if she is one of his main emotional supports, Ashe will not yield.


    Ashe has a good rtionship with his parents, but when they wanted him to be a local civil servant, he chose to strike out on his own in the big city, only returning home for the holidays;


    Ashe is also close to his older brother, but when his brother suddenly wanted to have a heart-to-heart talk in the middle of the night, discussing topics like people always meet the right person at the wrong time, Ashe immediately informed his sister-inw, nipping his brothers potential affair in the bud.


    Ashe is also very fond of his nephew, having bought him countless gifts. But when hees home to find the boy mischievous, he doesnt hesitate to take off his belt and turn the little rascal into a spinning top.


    Affection is affection, but Ashe has his own set of principles that he wontpromise for anyone. In some ways, Ashe feels akin to the citizens of the Blood Moon Kingdomhe too is someone who deems personal desires more critical than anything else, a selfish culprit.


    Auroras Sorcerer Handbook is his most crucial trump card, and its unthinkable for him not to use it; the Operators are vital for Exploring the Virtual Realm, and he cant forsake the ck-and-White Witch.


    The Swordswoman may feel uneasy, angry, and wronged. He can understand andfort her, but he will never apologize, much less give in.


    He needs the Swordswoman to understand and support him.


    Under Ashes gaze, after a moment of silence, Sonya asked, Will there be more people joining us in the future?


    Perhaps, Ashe replied, himself unsure, Who knows? Our team might grow to more than a dozen


    More than a dozen?!

 Chapter 212: A Change of Players, White Queen!

    Chapter 212: A Change of yers, White Queen!


    Its also possible that its just the three of us.


    Ashe tilted his head, But in any case, in this virtual realm, fraught with danger and opportunity, the more teammates you can trust to cover your back, the better.


    I dont trust her


    You didnt trust me at the beginning either.


    How can she bepared to you?


    Ashe looked at her with surprise, while Sonya turned her head to look at Deya, muttering a few words before sighing, I understand. Indeed, the intensity of battle in the Time Continent far exceeds the Sea of Knowledge. Two people cant guarantee absolute safety; three is definitely better


    The Red-haired Swordswoman nced at Ashe and poked his chest with her finger, saying resentfully, But dont forget your promise, as long as Im stronger than her


    Then you will be the most important Operator in my eyes! Ashe replied without hesitation, a firm believer in strength.


    Hmph. Sonya was still somewhat sullen, but when she turned to Deya, a brilliant, professional smile appeared on her face: Hello.


    Ashe also introduced them, Witch, she is my longstanding team member, the Swordswoman. Swordswoman, she is the new team member, the Witch. From now on, youll share the highs and lows together, so get along well.


    While Ashe was murmuring with Sonya, Deya took the opportunity to assess her situation.


    It wasnt a dream, nor an illusion; she really had been brought into the virtual realm by the Observers curious ability, without opening the Gate of Truth, and appeared in the same ce as the Observer.


    Unlike Sonya, the domestic cat, Deya was a bona fide Wildcat Sorcerer, sailing alone through the Sea of Knowledge for thousands of miles, having been bitten by sea serpents, drowned in the sea, enduring the hardships of a lone wolf, and honing a resilient mind.


    Thus, she almost instantly recognized the immense value of forming a teamthe Observer had nearly overturned the cultivation rules of the sorcerers world, reducing the difficulty of exploration in the virtual realm from epic tales to the level of fairy tales (and she would soon learn that it could be lowered even further).


    If a trade were possible, Deya believed that many legendary sorcerers would be willing to give up all their arcane energy or even their Realm Faction for the ability to form teams in the virtual realm.


    No wonder the Observer always shrouded his true identity in mist, using a codenamehe must know the value of this ability and feared being located by those using the Prophecy Faction!


    Deya initially harbored doubts and hostility towards the Observer, but at this moment her attitude had shifted: she must cling to the Observers coattails, and then find a way to mine his secrets!


    The ability to see her own thought process, to track little Lise undergoing the Bronze Dragon Trial, and to assemble teammates in the Virtual Realm Man, youve caught the attention of this Princess!


    And now, Deya had also discerned a clueapparently, the Observer hadnt shared her information with the Swordswoman, so the Swordswoman was somewhat resentful of her arrival.


    Hmm This Princess is not adept at socializing; this situation calls for a switch


    Rece with little Lise? But Lise needs to manage her physical body, and besides, Lise is too young


    Among my sisters, the most adept at understanding human nature and an adult female would only be


    She adjusted her decorative silver-rimmed sses and nced at her reflection from the corner of her eye.


    Mask spirit activated!


    Personality Split  Mask Ovey  Mode: White Queen!


    When Deya opened her eyes, her clothes had changed into a snow-white, sparkling off-shoulder mini dress; her legs were d in gartered white stockings, and her hair turned snow-white, the dark red lipstick adding a mature charm.


    Ashe and Sonya, who had not seen much of the world, were slightly taken abackcould one actually change skins directly in the Virtual Realm?


    And Ashe had another question; the Witchs portrait didnt feature sses, and the Witch who visited him before didnt wear sses, so why was she wearing sses now upon entering the Virtual Realm?


    However, he didnt n to pry; after all, sses piqued his interest.


    Speaking of which, Ashe had encountered three near-death experiences. The first was when Gerard almost killed him, the second was when Valcas nearly took him along during the Blood Moon Tribunal, and the third was when Freya found a pair of sses in a drawer and almost put them on.


    The third was the most dangerous.


    Hello, I am the Witch. Deya reached out to shake hands with Sonya: Pleased to meet you.


    Please take good care of me and the Observer in the future.


    This Small Horn The Red-haired Swordswoman was so infuriated that her eyes nearly turned into vertical slits.


    In an instant, Sonya recalled all the family ethic Noble pce dramas she had seen, wracking her brain for a brilliant retort.


    However, at that moment, Ashe called out to them:


    Dont just stand there, get in the car and we can talk.


    Looking over, they saw that Ashe had somehow acquired a convertible sports car and wasfortably lounging in it, stretchingzily.


    Ashe was actually a bit surprised as to why it was a convertible, but after some thought, it made senseon the Time Continent, it wouldnt rain, at least not downwards rain, and a car roof, besides obstructing the view, served no purpose, as meaningless as a mosaic, better off removed.


    Of course, this might also be an interpretation of the Deluxe Edition.


    Sonya wasnt surprised at all, having sailed the Sea of Knowledge with Ashe. Deyas eyes sparkled with admiration as she gently pped her hands, looking at Ashe with a face full of respect: Observer, you are so amazing. Perhaps we are the only ones on the entire Time Continent who can ride in a sports car Exploring the Virtual Realm, right?


    Not that amazing, Ashe said modestly: Its all thanks to everyone elses support.


    This woman Sonya gritted her teeth in irritation. Ever since the Observer had burst into her life, she had been speeding down the path of the Swordsmanship Genius, and it had been many days since she had attended a dance or tea party. Usually, others fawned over her more, and sheplimented others less, naturally neglecting to practice her own conversation skills.


    A word of praise for the Observer waspletely effortless, yet it could greatly increase his goodwill towards her, an extremely cost-effective interpersonalmunication tactic. The former Sonya would have definitely realized this, but now Deya had taken the lead!


    This Witch It seems she is the same type of Sorcerer as me!


    Then both of them looked towards the passenger seat beside Ashe, reaching out for it at the same time!


    Actually, sitting in the passenger seat proved nothing, but sometimes conceding even a breath meant losing everything. When its time topete, one mustpete in every aspect, even if its a losing battle, just to make a statement; to step back is to lose ground at every turn!


    Witch, would you like to sit in the front? Sonya asked with a beaming smile.


    Yes, the view is better from the front, Deya said, batting her eyelids.


    But today is my first time exploring the Time Continent, how about letting me take in the sights first?


    This


    Do you both want the front seat? Then go ahead and take it.


    Ashe flipped over to the back seat: It just so happens I dont want to be squeezed next to someone else.


    Sonya:


    Deya:

 Chapter 213: Pushing the Envelope

    Chapter 213: Pushing the Envelope


    Actually, onnd, is there really a need to keep using a vehicle? Were not in the sea. Wouldnt it be better to get out and walk to deal with emergencies?


    As the sports car hummed to life, Sonya suddenly felt that the car might be somewhat superfluous.


    On the Sea of Knowledge, a boat was truly essential. After all, swimming was too troublesome, and they were not aquatic animals. They gained no bonuses in the sea; staying in the water only yed into the Observers hands. But on the Time Continent, the situation was reversed; they werend creatures, and most battles required them to stand on solid ground. The car could actually hinder their ability to charge at a moments notice.


    Did you also have a vehicle in the Sea of Knowledge? Deya detected some clues.


    Yes, a boat, Sonyained. A very small boat that could barely fit two people. Any sudden move, and it would capsize. Thankfully, the Observer controlled it, so no rowing was necessary


    That sounds nice. I wish I could ride a boat in the Sea of Knowledge, Deya said wistfully. If only I had met the Observer sooner, but I guess its not toote now.


    Sonya pulled a wry smile: Yeah, Im really d I was chosen by the Observer


    Hey, the person in question is right here. Ashe shifted his gaze from the Virtual Realm map, Swordswoman, you clearly disliked me at first, alwaysining about whether you could cut down on your training intensity!


    Youve got it wrong! The Red-haired Swordswoman retorted loudly. I am a genius Female Swordsman. Training to me is as natural as breathing. I itch all over if I dont train for a day. How could I possiblyin to you?


    Swordswoman, are you practicing the arts of the Destiny Faction? You just so casually rewrote history, impressive.


    So the Observer arranges your training? Thats nice. Deya sighed. He insists on arranging Entertainment for me. I cant even study if I wanted to. I understand the Observer has good intentions, but its a bit too autocratic


    Sonya whipped her head around to stare intently at Ashe, silent, her face as foreboding as the calm before a storm, clearly expressing why does she get preferential treatment, an expression terrifying in its intensity.


    Ashe felt as if he were being scrutinized by a Titan Executioner, and exined somewhat helplessly, The Witch is in a unique state, with training efficiency reduced by 75%. It just so happens that Ive recently acquired a new treasure which allows one to gain some training benefits even while engaged in Entertainment, and it also avoids negative states


    Why dont I have that


    Didnt you say you are a Genius Female Swordsman, for whom training is as natural as breathing, and that you get itchy if you dont train for a day? The best oue of Entertainment is only equivalent to the poorest training result. Unlike the Witch with her negative state, training is the most cost-effective choice for you.


    Sonya realized she had trapped herself with her own words. In the past, she would have simply reneged on the spot; if the Observer wanted to argue, she would just use him of yelling at her.


    However, with the Witch right beside her, Sonya wanted to maintain her image as an excellent Senior and couldnt resort to whining or throwing a tantrum.


    But she was even less willing to let the Witch be the only one receiving preferential treatment.


    So, she looked at Ashe with a pitiful expression, her mouth pouted enough to hang a teapot, and her eyes almost shifting to vertical slits. Ashe clicked his tongue, The n for this week is already set, but next week Ill arrange for an Entertainment activity to see.


    The triumph in Sonyas eyes shed by, and then with disdain, she turned back, Hmph, I thought about it and training is more suitable for me, but if you insist on disturbing my tight training schedule, theres nothing I can do. You are the Observer, after all.


    Ashe was so irritated that he kicked her chair.


    Bang!


    Suddenly, a loud noise erupted as the sports car plowed through tworge trees ahead, arrogantly crossing onto the grass path in front, and continued to buzz forward. The collision seemed to have no effect on the car; Ashe and the others felt as if they had hit tofu, except the car became much more transparent. It was clear that such collisions were not meant to be frequent.


    Hmm, riding in a car does make sense after all, Deya suddenly said. Its different from walking on the Time Continent. Sitting in the car not only allows us to absorb the arcane energy from the Reverse Golden Rain, but it also consumes hardly any Soul Energy.


    Sonya asked, Does walking consume energy?


    It consumes about the same amount as swimming in the Sea of Knowledge, Deya pointed to the ground cover, the Time Continent has no roads at all; everywhere is overgrown with weeds and shrubs, plus there are muddy grounds, aquatic grass areas, mountains, forests, and all sorts of terrains. Every step takes quite a bit of effort. I dont know about others, but Ive used up almost half of my Soul Energy just on walking during my month of exploration on the Time Continent.


    Ashe and Sonya immediately understoodwith the sports car as their means of transportation, they would have virtually no loss of energy from walking. Although absorbing arcane energy also consumes Soul Energy, their exploration efficiency each night would at least be 50% higher than that of the average sorcerer.


    Moreover, it wasnt just about exploration efficiency. Other sorcerers were likemuters from the outskirts, spending two hours on transportation every day; while Ashe andpany were like locals living near the office, gaining two extra hours of free time each day. Even if they didnt use it for anything serious, the sheer energy savings were quite satisfying!


    Observer, you know which direction we should move in, right? Deya asked.


    Mhm, Ashe lifted his head to look at the slowly moving column of light on the horizon, we need to keep pace with the White Bull, right?


    Correct. Our current location should be in the front area of the White Bull; as long as we keep moving, we dont have to worry about falling into the Static Domain. Deya cocked her head to look at Ashe, Observer, do you know what Im thinking?


    Ashe scratched his head, How would I know what youre thinking?


    So, in the Virtual Realm, the Observer cant hear my Inner Voice Deya revealed a warm smile, This is the first time Ive felt so at ease in the Virtual Realm. Im thinking, its really nice to be exploring the Virtual Realm with the Observer. Thank you for inviting me.


    Sonya was so irritated she felt like grinding her teeth.


    Damn it The Witch is so good at this!


    Why am I so slow? Im clearly also a Female Sorcerer who is very good at making men fall for me with just a few words, so why now


    And its just that the Observer brought a sports car


    Its just


    Sonya had a nagging feeling that something was off.


    Although the Observer had always treated her with a jesting attitude, forcing her into Training, Battle, and Ritual summonings of spirits, the results spoke for themselvesSonya reaped substantial benefits each time with virtually no loss to herself.


    A month ago, she was just a poor college student with a modest reputation in the Water Department. Now, she had be the leading Genius of the Swordflower Academy, a seed of a Sword saint that Gales had to take seriously, and a formidable opponent that Truth College had to prepare for with caution All these changes stemmed from her pulling the longsword out of the Observers chest in a dream.


    While the Observer kept talking about a sacred Bond between them, suggesting that as she grew stronger, he would also benefit, Sonya, having experienced the wonders of the Sorcerer world, felt he might be telling the truth. Her increase in power could indeed be a significant help to the Observer. However, this did not mean she was entirely at ease epting this gift.


    She was well aware of whom she should be thankful to, but the Observers jesting manner made it hard for her to express gratitude. Over time, this became the norm, even something she took for granted.


    Perhaps this sense of gratitude would only show in a crisis. For instance, in a life-or-death situation, Sonya couldnt guarantee that shed be willing to sacrifice her life for the Observer, but she could at least ensure that she would hesitate for a second or two before fleeing.


    But just as one should loudly proim their contributions to be acknowledged, gratitude should also be expressed loudly to let others know you are a gentle, kind, and grateful person She knew this principle all too well and abided by it with everyone else. Why, then, did she forget it when it came to the Observer?


    She could always be kind to those she didnt care about, so why did she show her most unreasonable and spoiled side only to the Observer?


    If it werent for the Witchs arrival, Sonya might never have realized this problem. Perhaps it wasnt a problem now, but a Bond is like a de: initially sharp, resilient, and invincible, but if not carefully maintained, the de will rust. Once rusted, it bes brittle and may shatterpletely under a possibly not so strong impact.


    At that moment, Sonya suddenly recalled the question posed to her during Destinys Inquiry: What is the fundamental reason for the rift between the Red-haired Swordswoman and the Observer?


    Sonya exhaled gently and turned toward Ashe, Observer.


    Hmm?


    Thank you for the Pure Radiance Special Drink, Sonya said earnestly. Without the Potion you gave me, my Soul wound wouldnt have healed so quickly, and I wouldnt be able to join you in Exploring the Virtual Realm tonight Thank you.


    A Potion that heals Soul wounds? Interest flickered in Deyas eyes.


    The Cult Leader stared at the Red-haired Swordswoman, then kicked her chair with his foot.


    What are you doing! Sonya almost raised her longsword in anger. I thank you, and you kick me?


    Its because you thanked me that I kicked you, said Ashe. I wasnt kind to you for gratitude. Your getting stronger is the best repayment for me.


    And if you thank me so formally, then should I thank you when you fight the hardest in the Virtual Realm? Should I thank you when you protect me? Should I thank you when you execute a brilliant maneuver?


    Ashe looked at the Map of the Virtual Realm, muttering, Besides, whats the point of such gratuitous verbal thanks? Its troublesome. Were not strangers.


    Sonya stared at him for a few seconds, then suddenly burst outughing, Then from now on, Ill ept your gifts without any guilt!


    Dont be toocent, Ashe said, looking at Deya. You should put more effort into Training too. And Witch, you dont need to thank me like that. Everything I do is for a future return; Im not some great benefactor.


    But my gratitudees from the heart, the White Queen saidzily, stretching and shing a smile. Whats everyday for you is a Miracle for me. Other than words of thanks, I dont know how else to express my gratitude.


    Hmm, you make a good point, Witch, Ashe pondered. If you really insist on thanking me then you can


    Can?


    You can Ashe nced sideways at the cascading Golden Rain, feigning nonchnce,  give me a hug and praise me a few times. And if you really insist on a kiss, I wouldnt mind. After all, gratitude shoulde with some tangible benefits, right?


    Both blinked, and then the Red-haired Swordswoman fixed an icy stare on the White Witch, while the White Queen gently shook her head, with the Red-haired Swordswoman nodding in agreement.


    Without further words, they reached a consensus through their gazethey must not indulge the Observers wishes; at most, they would offer verbal praise, but they would not enter the Whirlpool of Internalpetition!


    If today he dares to ask for hugs and kisses, who knows what he would dare to ask for tomorrow!


    Such a precedent must not be set!

 Chapter 214: Sharing the Secret Poison

    Chapter 214: Sharing the Secret Poison


    ��Attention, prepare for battle.��


    Deya nced at the rain-obscured sky ahead, a flicker of realization crossing her face: ��Observer, do you possess an Exploration Miracle that works within the Reverse Golden Rain?��


    If the Sea of Knowledge��s white mist reduces visibility through its dreariness, then the Time Continent��s golden rain obscures vision with its intense brightness. Apart from the nearby vegetation, Sorcerers could hardly discern whether the nts within ten steps wererge trees, thickets, or small monsters, as everything was bathed in a golden sheen.


    And much like the white mist, the vast majority of Exploration Miracles couldn��t prate this curtain of rain. Thus, adventuring in the Time Continent bore no fundamental difference from that in the Sea of Knowledge.


    The differencey solely in whether monsters dragged you under from the sea or jumped out from behind a tree to bludgeon you unexpectedly.


    However, to Ashe, the Virtual Realm was like a girl in a short skirt, having lifted just a bit of her mysterious domain for him. He hadn��t seen the full picture yet, but at least he could see the ��absolute territory.��


    The Virtual Realm Telescope remained effective, and the Virtual Realm Map still disyed the situation within a 24-tile radius.


    It seemed that because it was loaded with a sports car, the map also showed the car��s health. Along the way, many trees had been bulldozed, leaving the car��s health below 50%. However, it could recover 1% health every few minutes, so there was no need to be frugal with its use��as long as it didn��t fall apart.


    In addition, the Virtual Realm Map disyed the White Bull��s direction of travel, with its four hooves clearly imprinted on the Holographic Screen. The White Bull wasn��t moving in a straight line but with a slight curve. Yet, because the White Bull was so massive, to them��mere ants��this curvature was like the sea��s surface not being entirely t, utterly imperceptible.


    But Ashe noticed a problem��the map��s left and right seemed reversed. When the sports car moved left, their marker went right.


    It wasn��t a big issue; Ashe manually rotated the map 180�� to correct it. After all, it was an internal beta Version of thepany; even if the Virtual Realm Map suddenly froze, blue-screened, and popped up a warning, Ashe wouldn��t be surprised.


    Speaking of which, what to do if the game froze? There was no way to summon the task manager or to shut down�� Would knocking oneself out count as a physical shutdown?


    As the sports car approached the green ��Worth a visit�� Area, Ashe stopped the vehicle and nced at the detailed information inside the area, his expression changing instantly:


    ��There are some White Velocidragons ahead!��


    Sonya took a moment to register this, but Deya��s eyes lit up: ��Some?��


    ��Yes, some!��


    ��Some White Velocidragons, worth a visit.��


    ��A group of Knowledge Creatures?�� Sonya blinked, recalling the information she had read over the past few days, and soon she too became excited: ��Could it be a Resource Point?��


    ��What��s a Resource Point?�� Ashe was somewhat puzzled.


    He had rested for several days at Freya��s home and took the opportunity to cram a lot ofmon knowledge about the Sorcerer world, but information about the Time Continent was considered very high-end knowledge, equivalent to professional papers in his previous life, and unnecessary for non-Two Wings Sorcerers to understand.


    When Ashe searched for the Time Continent within the Blood Moon Curtain, the mostmon search results were ��Romance of the Time Continent,�� ��Abandoned in the Gaps of Time,�� and ��Chasing Time to Find You.�� The general public��s perception of the Time Continent was �� it��s convenient for romance.


    After all, one is always swimming in the Sea of Knowledge with not-so-great scenery,pletelycking the romantic atmosphere of the Time Continent. Moreover, the inclusion of ��time�� in its name gave screenwriters plenty of room to let their imaginations run wild, allowing for adaptations and wild stories. From the plot summaries Ashe read, it seemed that the Time Continent, as portrayed under the Curtain, not only manipted time but could also cause gender changes, speed up childbirth, hasten one��s death, and facilitate infidelity��in short, it was the perfect stage for deeply tortured love stories.


    Later, when Ashe arrived in the Gospel Kingdom, he didn��t do much of substance, so he came to the Virtual Realm for his examination without any prior preparation. However, he had a reason for doing so��because he was sure the Swordswoman had done her homework.


    Deya looked at Sonya with surprise, and Sonya spread her hands: ��The Observer had amnesia before.��


    ��I see, like the Sorcerer in the fairy tale ��The Amnesiac Sorcerer and the Naive Girl��?��


    ��I haven��t heard of the fairy tale you��re mentioning.��


    At that moment, both Deya and Sonya were struck with a thought, but they didn��t continue the topic. Instead, they began exining to Ashe: ��Resource Points are special Areas that started appearing on the Time Continent. They are often guarded by Gregarious Knowledge Creatures. Knowledge Creatures drive spirits to manage the Resource Points, so these points often hold rare resources that we sorcerers can use. If we��re lucky, we might even find treasures that surpass the gains of an Experience Orb!��


    Deya added, ��But the Gregarious Creatures guarding the Resource Points can be tough to handle unless you��re a Battle Sorcerer specializing in area attacks. Otherwise, facing a swarm of them can throw you into disarray. I once attacked a Resource Point and had to retreat because I nearly died. But now that we have three people����


    ��Let��s divide our tactical roles,�� Ashe suggested. ��My abilities mainly include the miracles ��Sword Barrier�� and ��Heart Sword.�� ��Sword Barrier�� can provide long-range defense support, while ��Heart Sword�� allows for Long-range Attacks. Unless something unexpected happens, I��ll be the long-range attacker. Ah, I��ve also created a new miracle called ��Rush,�� which is a short-distance movement miracle.��


    ��You created a miracle? Let me see itter,�� Sonya said. ��I haven��t had any recent changes. I have the ��Counterattack Miracle�� known as ��Water Moon�� and a series of closebat miracles derived from ��Vibration Sword.����


    ��Weren��t you promoted to Two Wings?�� Ashe inquired. ��Didn��t the academy reward you?��


    ��How dare I reveal that I��ve been promoted to Two Wings!�� Sonyained. ��It��s been less than a month since I became a sorcerer. Last time, I could exin my Silver Full-Wing status by saying I entered a Whirlpool, but this time, if I reveal my Two Wings promotion without reaching the Gold Tier in my Faction Realm, the academy will definitely know I found the Golden Fish and entered the Time Continent�� At least until I raise my Swordsmanship faction to Gold Tier and have a Two Wings Swordsmanship spirit, I won��t dare confess my progress to the Professor.��


    The White Queen was taken aback��less than a month as a sorcerer? Entered the Time Continent by finding the Golden Fish?


    Even fairy tales wouldn��t dare to concoct such a tale!


    She couldn��t help but ask, ��You found the Golden Fish? The one from the fairy tale ��The Fisherman and the Golden Fish��?��


    ��I haven��t heard that fairy tale, but it is indeed the Golden Fish from the Sea of Knowledge,�� Sonya looked at Ashe, ��Should we tell her?��


    Ashe instantly grasped the subtext of the Swordswoman��s words. After thinking for a moment, considering the practicality of the arcane energy conversion effect of the secret poison of the Golden Fish, he decided to inform the Witch about the secret poison, asking, ��Do you feel like you have been infected with the secret poison?��


    ��The secret of the Golden Fish is a secret poison?�� Deya checked her own sensations and shook her head: ��I don��t feel anything.��


    Ashe said with some regret, ��That means you need to actually see the Golden Fish to be infected by the secret poison; just knowing about it isn��t enough to reach the threshold of infection. Speaking of which, if talking about it doesn��t cause infection, then this information about the secret poison should be widespread����


    ��I know why that is,�� Sonya said, ��I��ve looked into it at the academy and found that the Whirlpool secret poison, Eviction secret poison, and Golden Fish secret poison can all be linked to simr content. Especially the Golden Fish secret poison, I realized the concept of ��double flight�� which appeared in an animated film I saw when I was a child.��


    Since the Whirlpool secret poison and Eviction secret poison were no longer on the Time Continent, Ashe gave Deya a simple introduction without delving into the specifics of the secret poisons, then asked, ��Then doesn��t that mean many at your academy are poisoned?��


    ��Not at all,�� Sonya shook her head, ��Because those secret poison contents are mixed in with fairy tales, travel notes, and even fantasy novels. Even if a Sorcerer sees them, no one would believe these incredulous spections.��


    Ashe pondered, ��So as long as one doesn��t believe, they won��t be poisoned����


    ��It��s the same for us,�� Sonya continued, ��Before we actually saw the Golden Fish with our own eyes, we didn��t fully believe in its truth. It wasn��t until the moment with the Golden Fish that the secret poison took root in our minds.��


    Sonya looked at Deya, ��That��s why you, Witch, can��t be infected by the Golden Fish secret poison��no matter what we say, the truth about the Golden Fish is too absurd; you have to see it with your own eyes to bepletely convinced.��


    ��But there��s still a loophole here.�� Ashe suddenly spotted a blind spot, ��If a Two Wings Sorcerer is willing to share their memory to prove the existence of the Golden Fish secret poison, wouldn��t that add credibility�� Ah, I understand now.��


    Ashe put himself in their shoes and knew the answer to his naive question: If it were him, would he dare to stake his reputation in public, just to make everyone believe in the secret poison he spoke of?


    He wouldn��t dare.


    No Sorcerer wouldmit such suicide.


    Those daring enough to do so would have already been eliminated by the Exploration in Virtual Realm, and it��s not just one Sorcerer being eliminated but all who heard of the secret poison.


    Those Sorcerers infected with the secret poison, who dared to secretly scribble down its contents, did so because they couldn��t suppress their vanity. How could they possibly dare to stake their own credibility? What grudge do they have against the readers that they would drag them to their doom?


    A Sorcerer with the secret poison would at most share this secret only with family members theypletely trust, keeping the Number of Secret Poison Infected within a limited range.


    ��It��s such a pity,�� said the White Queen, and this time it wasn��t just her, even Deya herself felt a tinge of envy: ��A secret poison that can Convert Arcane Energy�� I envy you, Swordswoman, for being able to explore the Virtual Realm with the Observer right from the start. I haven��t been that lucky.��


    ��It��s not that useful, after all, I don��t yet have a Two Wings spirit,�� Sonya said lightly: ��Ah, actually, I��m quite envious of you too, being with the Observer for less than a month and already infected with three secret poisons, it seems so dangerous����


    There she goes showing off again�� Ashe nced at Sonya and then asked Deya, ��Speaking of which, Witch, don��t you have a Bronze Dragon secret poison? Is the content meaningful or the effect practical? Do you think it��s worth telling us?��


    The Witch did not hesitate: ��The Bronze Dragon secret poison is something Time Faction Sorcerers might encounter during their Exploration in Virtual Realm. There��s a higher chance to encounter a Bronze Dragon on the Time Continent. Meeting a Bronze Dragon, the Sorcerer will be given a Knowledge Curse trial, and the Sorcerer can freely choose when to start this trial. After breaking the curse, the Sorcerer will receive the Bronze Dragon��s blessing.��


    No sooner had she finished speaking than Ashe felt as if he heard the ticking of a clock hand. Opening his Holographic Screen, he discovered a new Knowledge Curse:


    ��Bronze Dragon Secret Poison��


    ��Number of Secret Poison Infected: 23��


    ��Intensification Degree of Secret Poison: 23%��


    ��Current Effects of Secret Poison: When attacked, immediately retreat 1 second to dodge the damage, with a cooldown of 23 hours (intensification degree reduced to 10% brings significant benefits, reaching 51% turns into a negative effect).��


    It��s a bit nuanced; to say it��s useless wouldn��t be quite right, as it could potentially save a life at certain moments. But to say it��s useful, a cooldown time of 23 hours seems excessively long��


    ��Have you been infected with the Secret Poison?��


    ��Yes.��


    ��No.��


    Both turned to look at Sonya, who was somewhat confused: ��Why can��t I be infected with Secret Poison?��


    Ashe nced at the Operator interface, and indeed, the Swordswoman had not been infected with the Bronze Dragon Secret Poison.


    Deya exined, ��Actually, I not only saw the Bronze Dragon with my own eyes, but I was also infected with the Secret Poison only after triggering the curse Trial. I thought that you wouldn��t be able to����


    She paused, then suddenly remembered that the Observer had indeed seen the Bronze Dragon��when she jumped down from the Tower, the Observer was right there watching!


    Sonya looked towards Ashe, who spread his hands: ��I am certain through special abilities that she indeed triggered the Bronze Dragon��s Favor. Swordswoman, you don��t have this channel, so����


    ��Eh?�� The White Queen blinked, her tone surprised: ��So it��s like you, Swordswoman, having the Golden Fish Secret Poison with the Observer��now I also have a Secret Poison that only the Observer and I possess?��


    Sonya, feeling a bit sour, responded, ��It��s just a Secret Poison, which really isn��t that important for a Sorcerer����


    ��Wait.�� Ashe thought for a moment and then said, ��If belief alone can lead to infection�� Swordswoman, are you willing to believe in me unconditionally? Without verification, without thought, forsaking the rigor of a Sorcerer, emptying the suspicion of others, and believing in me as if believing in the Truth, can you do that?


    ��I���� Sonya��s expression was conflicted, but in the end, she shook her head: ��I can��t.��


    How could she entrust herselfpletely to the distant Observer when she wouldn��t even fully trust her own mother? Her education wouldn��t allow it, her knowledge wouldn��t allow it, her pride even less so.


    ��But what about just once?��


    Ashe blinked, reaching out and tapping Sonya��s forehead.


    ��The Bronze Dragon Secret Poison, it��s real.��


    ��Swordswoman, trust me this time.��


    Tick-tock.


    When Sonya heard the sound of the clock hands moving, she was so excited she nearly jumped out of her seat. But she restrained herself, simply folding her arms and ncing at Deya: ��Hmm, this Bronze Dragon Secret Poison is really something, able to dodge damage once��thanks, Witch.��


    Ashe checked the Operator interface, and sure enough, there was an additional Secret Poison in the Swordswoman��s status, with the Number of Secret Poison Infected increasing to 24.


    ��This means that you, Witch, could also potentially be infected with the Golden Fish Secret Poison,�� said Ashe. ��As long as the Bond between us is strong enough, and you trust me enough.��


    Deya stared nkly at the scene, while the White Queen��s mind raced, eventuallying to a conclusion: She could not shake the Swordswoman��s position in the Observer��s heart.


    Not for now, at least.


    ��Alright,�� the White Witch said with a beaming smile, ��Let��s work hard together.��


    ��Speaking of which, have we forgotten something?��


    ��Right,�� Ashe regained his focus. ��We were supposed to assign tactical positions�� But now that we share the Secret Poison, it��s like we��ve boosted our Battle capability. What kind of Miracle or spirit do you mainly use, Witch? Are your tactics close-ranged, like Fist and w?��


    ��Theoretically, it belongs to the Fist and w Faction, but it��s not exactly that.��


    Deya brought her fists together, pulling out three transparent, flowing threads.


    ��I prefer to call it,�� she said with a pure and sweet smile, ��death thread.��

 Chapter 215: Spirit Evolution Material

    Chapter 215: Spirit Evolution Material


    Crack!


    As the Witch snapped the neck of the fourth White Velocidragon, she turned around to find that there were no longer any living Knowledge Creatures in the mine.


    Personality Split �C Mask Switching �C Red Death Eater mode disengaged, White Queen mode engaged!


    ��Is it over already?��


    Deya watched as the corpse of the White Velocidragon turned into light points and sank into the soil, still somehow unable to react��could battles in the Virtual Realm be this easy?


    This Resource Point was a stone quarry guarded by a total of eight White Velocidragons. In the past, Deya would have turned and fled. Thest Resource Point she attacked had only four Dog Head Dragons, and it took her a great deal of effort to kill two, leaving her own body blurred and nearly drained of arcane energy. If it weren��t for the Time Spirit��s ��Fast Forward,�� she might not have been able to retreat at all.


    But now, having defeated the eight White Velocidragons guarding the Resource Point, Deya emergedpletely unscathed. Although their trio had taken advantage of the terrain in the quarry from the start, blocking the narrowest passage tounch a counterattack, the oue was still surprisingly delightful.


    The Observer was responsible for Long-range Attack and support, while the Sword Barrier protected Deya from the White Velocidragons�� assaults not once, but twice; the Swordswoman took charge of closebat bursts, using the wide-range Vibration Sword Miracle to keep the White Velocidragons at bay. As for Deya, she followed close behind the Swordswoman, ready to add damage and seize opportunities. Whenever she spotted a vulnerability in the White Velocidragons, she would trigger the Miracles ��water thread�� and ��Entangle,�� wrapping the death thread around the vital points of the White Velocidragon and then tightening it fiercely,pleting the harvest.


    Although it was a simple coboration, Deya had underestimated the lethality of a trio of Sorcerers working together, as well as overestimated thebat strength of Gregarious Creatures. In fact,pared to Large Creatures, the individualbat strength of Gregarious Creatures could be said to be quite weak��the difference inbat abilities between them was likeparing a voluptuousdy to a group of t-chested lolitas.


    However, the strength of Gregarious Creatures does not lie in individual power but in the formidable execution of mob tactics.


    When Gregarious Creatures gang up on a Sorcerer, they inevitably assign roles such as bait, assault, and restraint, with positions constantly shifting. As a Sorcerer aims to unleash an attack on one creature, that creature will likely retreat to lure the Sorcerer in, while others seize the opportunity to attack. Even if the creatures�� damage is not high, most Sorcerers not from the Physical Factionck the ��Super Armor�� buff and can easily be knocked off bnce by attacks. If a Sorcerer is knocked to the ground, they can expect to be swarmed and bitten to death.


    This is what happened to Deyast time, ground down by several Dog Head Dragons to the point of utter frustration. The intelligence of Gregarious Creatures makes one suspect that perhaps the Virtual Realm is micro-managing them to toy with Sorcerers.


    The battle strategy a Sorcerer employs against Large Creatures and Gregarious Creatures ispletely different, as are the risks involved. Many Sorcerers who have in countless foes in the Sea of Knowledge find themselves repeatedly defeated by Gregarious Creatures upon arriving at the Time Continent.


    However, when Sorcerers team up in threes, the situation ispletely reversed.


    With three Sorcerers covering each other, Deya only needs to focus on the creatures in front of her. With the support of the Observer, Deya can attack without always having to reserve strength for a retreat, allowing her to go all out. By taking advantage of the terrain, they can even gang up on a single creature within a small area.


    In such scenarios, the weaknesses of Gregarious Creatures��low defense, low health, weak damage, and monotonous attack patterns��be ringly obvious. Soon, the trio finds the right rhythm and ughters the creatures one by one.


    Such an easy andfortable battle seemed like a scene straight out of a fairy tale.


    While Deya was reflecting on her past battles as if they were horror stories, the other two were quietly assessing the new member��sbat prowess.


    Strong!


    Ferocious!


    Sinister and unpredictable!


    Once the battlemenced, the Witch suddenly changed her attire, donning a tight blood-red battle dress and her hair turned into an alternating pattern of red and white. She extended three transparent threads from her hands.


    Ashe had an epiphany��this must be the Witch activating her Inherent Talent, switching to a persona better suited for battle.


    When she viciously shed at the White Velocidragon, her threads whipped across its body like steel, leaving clear, bloody marks. It seemed she had also imbued these threads with ��Hydrotherapy�� Time Spirits, which are typically used for healing. However, when Hydrotherapy Time Spirits are used for treating serious injuries, they often need to be paired with anesthesia or sleep Time Spirits, since the regrowth of flesh can be intensely itchy and painful.


    In Shattered Lake Prison, Ashe always woke up after healing without ever experiencing pain, and it was not without reason��[222] he had never been allowed to feel even a hint of difort.


    When Hydrotherapy Time Spirits are applied to battle, they amplify sensory damage. The White Velocidragons whipped by the Witch often screamed or even jumped, significantly slowing their pace in battle.


    In addition, the Witch had another miracle up her sleeve, ��Entangle,�� which suddenly wrapped the threads around the target. Then, with a violent tug using her hands, Ashe could see her biceps bulging. Apanied by the White Velocidragon��s pained howls, its neck was torn open by the Witch��s threads.


    The Witch��s mastery of the Time Spirit ��Fast Forward�� also yed a key role, disrupting the White Velocidragon��s desperate defenses and even causing one to blunder into the Swordswoman��s ��Killing Intent Rupture Wave sh.��


    Moreover, the Witch kept pace with the Swordswoman��s rhythm, not only avoiding holding her back but alsoplementing her tactics beautifully. Throughout the battle, Ashe even felt that it was he who was being carried.


    ��Gregarious Creatures don��t drop Time Spirits?�� Ashe looked around, ��Isn��t that a loss?��


    ��Gregarious Creatures typically use Time Spirits to drive production at Resource Points. Unless an overlord creature appears among them, it��s rare for Time Spirits to remain within their bodies,�� Sonya exined, ncing towards the mine��s interior, ��Once the Gregarious Creatures die, the Time Spirits likely seize the chance to escape, so we hardly ever harvest any.��


    ��The only real gain from conquering a Resource Point is the resources already produced inside.�� Deya seemed eager to try, ��I hope there��s a Fist Stone in there.��


    Ashe was still unsure about the value of Resource Points, but once he picked up the gleaming deep blue stone from the mine, he understood their significance to a Sorcerer��


    ��Weak Water Stone: When consumed by Water Faction Time Spirits, it can catalyze their autonomous evolution.��


    ��Fist Stone: When consumed by Fist and w Faction Time Spirits, it can catalyze their autonomous evolution.��


    Spirit Evolution!


    Ashe hadn��t expected that Spirit Evolution could also depend on external items. He naturally researched at the Bewitcher��s home other ways to obtain high-rank spirits besides hunting monsters and looting equipment. He found two answers: summon a new one or enhance an old one.


    Summoning a new one is self-exnatory; it��s akin to finding a new girlfriend, with all the necessary steps such as dating, dining, watching movies, and holding hands. Enhancing an old one is like upgrading and dressing up your wife to look more high-ss and beautiful��simpler, but the issue is you need to have a wife to start with.


    Generally speaking, a normal Sorcerer will have a Lifeline Spirit��the first spirit they��ve summoned.


    After a Sorcerer raises their Faction Realm to the Gold Tier, most of them step into the Time Continent by elevating their Lifeline Spirit to Two Wings.


    It is evident that the spirits eligible for enhancement are mostly Lifeline Spirits. In some sense, a spirit is like a daughter married off from the Virtual Realm, and if the daughter��s life bes increasingly prosperous with the Sorcerer, her natal home adds more to her dowry, upgrading her from a Level 1 loli to a Level 2 young girl.


    Other spirits, not personally summoned by the Sorcerer, are akin to a mistress without a marriage certificate and do not receive recognition from the Virtual Realm family.


    But if they can consume higher-level Virtual Realm resources, like the faction ores from this Resource Point, even the mistress can continue to be upgraded.


    ��So, if you thoroughly master your spirit and then let it consume the corresponding faction ore, there��s a high chance it will catalyze the spirit��s autonomous evolution,�� Sonya exined. ��In fact, consuming ores from other factions also helps, but the conversion efficiency is only 3% of the corresponding faction.��


    In other words, feeding a well-developed spirit couldpletely evolve it into a more special form�� Ashe nodded, looking at the pile of glittering ores in the cart and thoughtfully said, ��Let��s sort them by faction then. Time Series and Fist and w for the Witch, Swordsmanship Department and Water Department for the Swordswoman.��


    ��And what about you?�� Sonya asked. ��Aren��t you also from the Swordsmanship Department like me?��


    ��I��m not in a hurry, I��m not particrly attached to my spirit. If I get a better Two Wings spirit in the future, I��ll just switch to it. You all have a Major Faction, and need to grow with your spirits����


    ��But what about the Heart Sword?�� Sonya shook her head. ��That��s the Peerless Secret Sword of the Five Spirits, and it was also the item left to you by that Elf�� I might be able to get an Item to exchange spirits in the Virtual Realm in the future. Until then, you need to properly nurture the Heart Sword!��


    Sonya pushed several Sword Heart Stones into Ashe��s arms. Ashe blinked and said with satisfaction, ��Swordswoman, you��ve grown up����


    ��Don��t talk with that tone you use when you see a dutiful daughter!�� Sonya was so frustrated that she didn��t know where to direct her irritation.

 Chapter 216: Their Respective Modes of Transport

    Chapter 216: Their Respective Modes of Transport


    In the end, Ashe consumed a third of the Sword Heart Stone, Sonya two-thirds, and Deya wanted to show she could also y her part. Unfortunately, Ashe had neither the time nor a Fist and w spirit.


    After the feast, however, there remained a plethora of Faction stones, such as those imbued with Fire Magic, Earth Magic, Wind Magic, and more. They picked and chose a few more to consume��Ashe��s ��Earth Sword�� could absorb an Earth Stone, his ��Wind Barrier�� a Wind Stone, Sonya��s ��Killing Intent Sword�� a Necrostone, Deya��s ��Finger Silk�� an Arrow Feather Stone��


    Just as a Sorcerer may have many minor Factions in addition to their main one, spirits too are influenced by several secondary Factions. Ashe��s ��Earth Sword�� was a prime example, with Swordsmanship and Earth Magic influencing it in a ratio of about 7:3, hence the Earth Sword had about a 30% catalytic effect when consuming an Earth Stone.


    After their selective consumption, half the Faction stones still remained. These stones could not be taken along since, upon a Sorcerer��s return to reality, it was uncertain where they might reappear upon their next visit to the Time Continent. Carrying the stones had no purpose, so they had to be eitherpletely absorbed on the spot or abandoned.


    Sonya and Deya had anticipated this, but Ashe, who always sought to make the most of every situation, felt it was a pity, examining the Faction stones he held. Sonya urged, ��Hurry up and consume the rest of the stones, then we must continue our pursuit of the White Bull.��


    ��Mhm,�� Ashe nodded, as he had voluntarily offered the stones needed by the Swordswoman Witch, so both readily agreed to let him have all the other unrted Faction stones.


    When Ashe summoned his Substitute spirit to absorb the Faction stone, the spirit was clearly reluctant, like someone who enjoys sweet tofu pudding being forced to eat a salty version, but s,pelled by the Sorcerer��s dominance, it had to swallow it down.


    Ashe found it amusing to watch, but while picking up the stones, he identally grabbed a dull, ordinary rock with no luster.


    Suddenly, the game interface popped up.��Detected upgrade enhancement resource necessary for the Aurora Autonomous Car. Would you like to absorb?��


    ��It turns out�� it��s this.��


    In the Blood Moon Kingdom, in an apartment built in the forties, Room 302 on the third floor, a Bewitcher college student looked at her spirit in hand, momentarily lost in thought.


    The Fold-Ear Cat Little String hopped onto the table, extending a paw curiously to touch and discovered to its rm that its paw actually passed right through the spirit. Startled, it stood up, warily eyeing the mysterious glowing entity.


    The spirit had the appearance of a long-haired girl ying a sonata on the flute, resembling one belonging to the Sound Magic Faction. In fact, it was closely rted to sound.


    Its name was ��Echo.��


    This was a rare spirit that possessed the dual characteristics of both the Mind and Sound Magic Factions. It was capable not only of using sound to scout the surrounding area but also of making traces more concrete through sound. For example, it could manifest everything that had happened in an area, or everything a particr item hade into contact with, like reying the past.


    Of course, since the past is so vast, the spirit would manifest only things within the Sorcerer��s awareness, essentially reying events the Sorcerer had witnessed.


    Simply by using this spirit, Freya could easily get a job at the Sin Hunter��s Hall, not as abat-oriented Blood Mad Hunter, but in the far less demanding and better-paying ranks of the Sin Hunters.


    But Freya had never actually intended to summon this spirit. How could she have ever hoped to summon such a rare spirit? Her initial goal was ��Suggestion,�� and then, feeling it wasn��t quite her style, she shifted to ��Charm.��


    Because information on the Mind Faction was scarce in the Blood Moon Kingdom, Freya had to cobble together a ��potentially useful�� study method using various materials collected from university, supplementing her studies with volunteer work in mental counseling, thus steadily advancing her expertise in the Faction Realm.


    Tonight, after watching a Shadow Drama titled ��Mudflower,�� her fluctuating emotions resonated with the Virtual Realm, and her sufficient knowledge immediately gave birth to her first inheritable legacy��the Echo spirit.


    Although it��s normal to summon a spirit whenever the Faction Realm is sufficient, Freya felt she would remember forever the idea that ��watching Shadow Dramas could increase the chance of summoning a spirit.�� Not only would she watch more dramas in the future, but she would also ensure this detail was recorded in the Sorcerer Handbook after her death.


    While Freya had indeed read about the Echo spirit recently, she had no idea what was required to summon it, nor had she nned to. Yet, for some reason, it had been summoned.


    ��She had an ominous premonition.


    Freya gazed at the spirit before her. Normally, a new Sorcerer receiving their first spirit would immediately test its powers. However, Bewitcher had no such intention.


    Because this was her home.


    The only traces within these walls belonged to an evil man, a mischievous animal, a lovely being, and her and Little String.


    Bewitcher drew back the curtains, letting the grandeur of the Blood Moon cast a sweet hue over the bedroom. Then shey down on her bed, searching within the spirit for the Gate of Truth, preparing for her first journey into the Virtual Realm.


    She had longpleted her knowledge preparation required before entering the Virtual Realm, and tonight the Blood Moon shone brightly, offering its ��Blood Moon Shelter�� to fortify her soul, reducing the amount of Soul Energy consumed while healing injuries within the Virtual Realm.


    The Gate of Truth, a bridge to the Virtual Realm, sinks into the fog��


    Contrary to the foolish rumors whispered behind the Curtain or the private chats at university, entering the Virtual Realm wasn��t like being squeezed through a rubber tube, nor was it the release that came from freeing oneself from physical constraints. If she had to describe it, Freya would say it was like being��naked.


    Unrestrained yet still self-aware, as nudity is a candid confrontation with the world, so entering the Virtual Realm is a Sorcerer facing knowledge without any concealment.


    As expected, she found herself submerged in the sea. Despite numerous practice sessions, Bewitcher still instinctively panicked��a natural reaction for any terrestrial creature suddenly surrounded by seawater, save for Merfolk Sorcerers. But she quickly adjusted, lightly kicking her feet to maintain bnce, and opened her eyes to face this unfamiliar world.


    White mist, a dark sea, silence, and a monotonous palette built an expansive prison, with boundless loneliness rushing forth. Yet for the residents of the Blood Moon, such a degree of solitude was barely tolerable, for they were trained from the starting line to resist loneliness.


    Freya had encountered Sorcerers who experienced fear due to the loneliness and dangers of the Virtual Realm during her time volunteering for psychological counseling. These Sorcerers were mostly Human, with a few Goblins and Orcs, while it was almost unheard of to see an Ogre with such fears��not only because there were fewer Ogre Sorcerers but more importantly because Ogres could directly consume Moon Sugar to dispel their fears without the need for a psychiatrist to assist in treatment.


    Moon Sugar was a panacea for psychological and mental ailments.


    Aside from Ogres, Bewitcher Sorcerers rarely needed psychological counseling because they could heal their minds by resolving their desires, making psychological diseases extremely rare among their Race. This was considered a Talent of the Bewitchers.


    Freya had prepared herself mentally before entering the Virtual Realm, much like mustering the courage to enter a newly opened Mud Caf��, ready to face everything unfamiliar.


    However, as she turned her head, an anachronistic object abruptly entered her view.


    A boat.


    Bewitcher stared at it for a few seconds before her brain started to process��why was there a boat here?


    After hesitating for a moment, remembering that death in the Virtual Realm wasn��t real death, she climbed aboard the boat to investigate.


    There was nothing noteworthy about it; it was just an ordinary boat, without oars, drifting lonely on the Sea of Knowledge, like a pet abandoned by its owner.


    She sat on the boat, looking up at the boundless white mist, feeling the tension in her heart dissipate significantly.


    Just then, her body suddenly stiffened.


    ��Help, help, I��ve been ambushed by a Bewitcher at night, I��m going to be killed����


    ��Hey, if you don��t want to die, hand over your Virtual Realm experience. I heard you need to swim in the Sea of Knowledge. How do you swim? Backstroke? Butterfly? Freestyle?��


    ��Hm? I haven��t swum in the Sea of Knowledge; I took a boat.��


    ��You could at least humor me. How can you treat me like a fool, there are no boats in the Sea of Knowledge! You forced my hand����


    ��No, this is too much of a vition of the rules, I��m really going to die�� Sword Barrier!��


    Could it be��


    Freya summoned her Echo spirit, staring at it for a while, causing the spirit to feel somewhat uneasy under her gaze, before she finally activated it.


    The crisp voice swept over the Boat, vibrating the air into various distinct shapes. He had stood here, sat there,in here, and sprawled there, over and over, densely packed. The Bewitcher looked all around, seeing only his traces.


    Freya deactivated the spirit, staring at the Boat for quite some time, her thoughts inscrutable, and then��


    ��Die!��


    ��Die die die die die!��


    ��(�s����)�sI hate this kind of clingy man the most�� Ah!��


    Kicking too hard, the Bewitcher sent the Boat off bnce, flipping it over. However, the Boat seemed to have its own gyroscope system, righting itself and continuing to float on the sea, leaving only the drenched Bewitcher in the water.


    She climbed back onto the Boat, lying on it and staring nkly at the sky shrouded in white mist.


    ��I was meant to soak in the sea, but you had to row the Boat and pull me up, then row away on your own. I was finally prepared to continue soaking, why would you leave the Boat to me?��


    ��An evil man like you should be locked in a basement, where I��d deal with you once in the morning, once in the afternoon, and three times at night.��


    ��But����


    Freya sat up and stretchednguidly.


    ��There��s no reason for a Bewitcher to refuse gifts from the opposite sex; taking without giving in return is our sacred duty. I��ll ept this Boat with a clear conscience. But how should I use it without oars?��


    She searched the Boat more thoroughly and finally found a strand of hair in a crevice of the Boat, which triggered a mechanism when pulled. A steering wheel rose from the center of the Boat, allowing direct control of its movement.


    The Bewitcher looked at the hair in her hand, feeling it resembled something from her Little String.


    ��So���� Freya manipted the steering wheel, driving the Boat through the dense white mist: ��Wait for me, I��ming after you!��

 Chapter 217: The Evolution of the Chariot!

    Chapter 217: The Evolution of the Chariot!


    As the Observer picked up an unremarkable piece of ore, Sonya and Deya cast urging nces his way.


    Not all resources produced at a Resource Point are usable by Sorcerers; only about one in ten finished products contain Virtual Realm energy, evolving into the essence materials capable of nourishing spirits.


    This is why only Knowledge Creatures can manage Resource Points��the production cycle is too long. Before Sorcerers canpel their spirits to extract materials suitable for themselves, their Soul Energy is nearly depleted, forcing them to withdraw from the Virtual Realm.


    Only Knowledge Creatures, without any Restrictions on their stay, and even capable of surviving in the Static Domain, can operate Resource Points over extended periods. Moreover, Knowledge Creatures don��t just harvest but also consume these essence materials. Records indicate that therger the Resource Point, the more Gregarious Creatures it attracts, perhaps because they can proliferate their kind by absorbing the essence.


    Sometimes Large Creatures also raid Resource Points, but just as Sorcerers are no match for Gregarious Creatures, Large Creatures may not necessarily defeat them. However, the rtionship between the two is not typically a matter of life and death. In most cases, Gregarious Creatures willingly give up some materials, as if paying a protection fee to keep the peace.


    This is also why this White Velocidragon mine has so many stone materials. Apart from the White Velocidragon��s hoarding habit, they need to keep some essence materials for emergencies, to pay off Large Creatures when theye to plunder.


    But whether Sorcerers or Knowledge Creatures, they all need only essence materials filled with Virtual Realm energy. As for other ordinary, dull, non-luminous stones, they are only fit for White Velocidragons to use for teeth grinding and ying dodgeball.


    Then, in the next second, the Swordswoman and Witch saw the stone in the Observer��s hand suddenly turn to dust, slipping through his fingers and falling to the ground.


    So that was it��he wanted to show off a newly learned Miracle that could instantly pulverize a stone?p, p, p!


    Sonya and Deya pped in admiration, and then they saw the Observer frantically sting at the stones, swiftly clearing a pile at a time, before turning to another heap and beginning to inhale them like a storm.


    It seems the Observer was under quite a bit of stress in reality�� Sonya watched and felt a bit of pity, calling out, ��Alright, alright, Observer, we all know you��re powerful. Stop wasting arcane energy����


    It was Deya who realized something: ��Could it be, Observer, that you can make use of these useless materials?��


    ��Indeed!�� Ashe said excitedly as he watched the stone in his hand turn to dust, a grey arcane glow flowing into the palm of his hand, ��These are the real treasures of this Resource Point!��


    ��You have disenchanted a Virtual Realm Stone (Extra Large), receiving 6 points of Ore Essence.��


    ��You have disenchanted a Virtual Realm Stone (Medium), receiving 3 points of Ore Essence.��


    ��Are you sure you want to disenchant the Magma Stone (Special)? You have disenchanted the Magma Stone, receiving 15 points of Ore Essence.��


    All the ordinary stones piled up in the Resource Point could be broken down by the game system into Ore Essence, and the essence materials could as well, with the essence amount being ten times that of the same volume of ore.


    But the game seemed to assume that yers wouldn��t break down essence materials, which is why there was no reaction when Ashe picked up the Sword Heart Stone.


    Once Ashe had emptied this Resource Point, he had amassed a total of 950 points of Ore Essence! What was once a mountain of stones had be a hollow void, the ground covered only with ayer of stone powder, and the mining tunnels now felt spacious. Even the White Velocidragon shed tears at the sight.


    Soon, Sonya and Deya discovered what use Ashe had for crushing those stones��when they saw him return to the sports car outside the mine, he spoke to the hood, ��Upgrade, Evil de!��


    Buzzing!


    The sports car roared intensely, its front bumper starting to deform and cover over. In a few seconds, it had formed an extremely sharp edge, like a de, leaving no doubt that this beast, once put into drive, could easily slice through any trash daring to stand in its way.


    While his twopanions were stunned by this transformation, Ashe eagerly inspected the Holographic Screen��s auto-vehicle enhancement blueprint.


    ��Evil de Level 4: Impact causes 400% tearing damage, energy consumption reduced by 60%. Ore Essence needed for next level: 600.��


    Just by scavenging this Resource Point, he had upgraded the car��s de to Level 4!


    In addition to the ��Evil de,�� the same position on the vehicle could be modified with the ��Vanguard Stone Shield,�� which was clearly meant for defense. Only one modification could be made in the same position, and switchingponents required the removal of the existing one, with 50% of the essence returned upon disassembly.


    Ashe felt that his uing exploration journey would inevitably involve a lot of reckless driving, so it was natural to prioritize the activation of the ��Evil de��ponent.


    More importantly, the essence he currently possessed was only sufficient to activate the ��Evil de.��


    There were exclusive car essories such as ��Petrifying Gaze�� for the headlights, ��Refractive Barrier�� for the front window, ��Poison Fog Surge�� for the exhaust pipe, ��Boiling Chainsaw�� for the sides of the chassis, and even a seat essory, ��Alchemical Throne,�� which could elerate the absorption of Gold arcane energy. Each option made Ashe drool with desire.


    However, the bad news was that all these essories required a substantial amount of essence to activate, and not just a single type of essence.


    For instance, to activate a Level 1 ��Alchemical Throne,�� one would need 200 Gem Essence, 200 Crystal Essence, 200 Mercury Essence, 200 Wood Essence, 200 Ore Essence, and 200 Gold Essence. Clearly, it would require scouring seven different Resource Points to gather all that was needed.


    The good news was that it seemed only Ashe on the Time Continent had the ability to break down these useless materials to obtain essence, so there was nopetition!


    Given time, Ashe was sure to upgrade his auto-vehicle from the Deluxe Edition to the top-of-the-line version, and when that time came, he would be able to run amok across the Time Continent, annihting people and Knowledge Creatures alike!


    Now Ashe was full of motivation to pick up trash, urging as he got into the car, ��Hurry up and get in, let��s aim to conquer another Resource Point tonight!��


    Sonya and Deya quickly adapted to this change. After all, the Observer had already demonstrated many strange abilities. Compared to teaming up in the Virtual Realm, drinking Pure Radiance Special Drinks, and forcing Operators through Training and Entertainment, Ashe was now simply using ordinary materials to enhance the car, which was hardly something to make a fuss about.


    This time, without thinking, Ashe took the front seat, and after a moment��s hesitation, Sonya decided not to hesitate and pulled Deya to sit in the back with her.


    The White Queen looked on in surprise at the suddenly intimate Swordswoman and then said with a suppressedugh, ��Swordswoman, you are so cute.��


    ��Ah?�� Sonya blushed, feigning pride as she turned her head away: ��Of course I��m cute.��


    But with just that light remark, Sonya��s resentment toward the new team member dissipated greatly.


    Despite still being annoyed by the sudden addition of a stranger to the team, the Witch��s performance in the recent battle had proven she wouldn��t be a drag. Sonya grudgingly epted the presence of the new member.


    Sonya was just more emotional when she first entered the Virtual Realm; after all, it had been six or seven days apart, and the moment they reunited, the Observer brought someone new into the team. Wouldn��t anyone be upset? Couldn��t they have waited one more day to add her to the team, to give us time to chat privately first? A little heads-up wouldn��t have hurt, right? Why the need for such abrupt action?


    Even if Sonya truly didn��t mind, she had to show her annoyance to make the Observer aware of her displeasure. After all, it��s the honest ones who are always taken advantage of, and while she hoped everyone else would be honest, she didn��t want to be the only one.


    Her irritation wasn��t about the new team member encroaching on her benefits, but rather the action subtly revealed that the Observer didn��t trust her enough��would she really have objected that strongly? As long as you ensure this new member is helpful, I��d be more than happy to ept them.


    But couldn��t you have chosen someone with more ordinary looks? Based on my experience, such beautiful women are usually troublemakers��


    However, after calming down, the Red-haired Swordswoman also realized the new member��s value. She was a realist; as long as it didn��t involve her bottom line, she could set aside her emotions for the sake of benefits. She understood early on that sulking brought no value other than making oneself unattractive.


    Nevertheless��


    Sonya gently pushed Deya away and moved to the seat at the far left of the back row, leaning against the car door, arms crossed over her chest, gazing out at the Reverse Golden Rain with an air of ��I��m aggrieved but I won��t say it.��


    Look at me, I��m still upset, and I don��t want to interact with the new team member!


    Look at me [��৥��]!

 Chapter 218: An Accident Right After Getting the Car

    As Ashe examined the Virtual Realm map, he asked:


    ��Speaking of which, Witch, are you skilled in the Time Faction?��


    ��Yes.��


    ��It��s said that the Time Faction is most effective when practiced on the Time Continent. Is that true?�� Ashe inquired further.


    ��Correct.�� Deya nodded, reaching out to touch the Reverse Golden Rain rising from the vegetation, and exined: ��In fact, each drop of golden rain contains knowledge of time, or rather, all the time of the Time Continent is condensed within this golden rain. When I absorb the golden rain to consolidate arcane energy, the knowledge of time within it can almost be converted entirely into my Faction Realm experience. Compared to other factions, I can gain an additional ten to fifteen times the experience in the Time Faction.��


    ��That good?�� Even the inexperienced Ashe couldn��t help but feel envious: ��But why don��t I feel my Time Faction growing?��


    The White Queen paused at such an absurd question before slowly rifying: ��Because Observer, you have not even crossed the threshold of the Time Faction. When you draw upon the white mist from the Sea of Knowledge, it can only enhance the growth of factions that have already stepped into the Silver realm. As for those factions you have not mastered, you cannot gain any experience.��


    Sonya offered a more vivid exnation: ��The knowledge in the white mist and golden rain is like the voice of a Professor during a lecture; only those who understand canprehend, while for those who don��t, it bes noise.��


    Ashe finally understood and, after thinking for a moment, said: ��But the Time Faction in the Time Continent is too lucrative; just by walking, one can enhance their Faction Realm�� Swordswoman, is there a way for me to get started with the Time Faction?��


    ��No way,�� Sonya shook her head helplessly: ��Theoretically, the best way to enter the Time Faction is to step onto the Time Continent. But if you can��t extract the knowledge of time from the golden rain after entering, it indicates that you don��t have the Talent. No matter what you do, you can��t get started. The Time Faction is one of the Magical Factions that most requires innate Talent; effort is meaningless without it, and envy won��t get you anywhere.��


    ��Don��t you envy it?��


    ��Not at all.��


    ��But I��ve also made it into the Time Faction,�� Ashe said with a chuckle, looking at the ��Time Faction: Silver Rank�� that had just appeared on his Operator interface. ��Now you��re the only one who hasn��t taken advantage of the Virtual Realm.��


    Due to the Bond, the experience Witch gained in the Time Faction also flowed to Ashe. Though hecked Talent, as long as Witch fed him enough experience to cross the Silver threshold, he would naturally be able to enjoy the benefits of being directly nurtured by the Virtual Realm.


    Sonya��s mouth twitched, and now genuinely angry, she pretended to be just ying around as she wrapped her arms around Ashe��s neck in the front row: ��You know all this and you��re not thinking of ways to help me! Like the spirit Summoning Ritualst time����


    ��That depends on luck, and aren��t you afraid of another ��Sincerity��, being forced to tell the truth for days?��


    ��I can��t possibly be that unlucky all the time!����


    Watching their yful bickering, the White Queen thought to herself: ��Deya, I don��t think I fit in with their way of interacting. I am psychologically too old, too mature. Maybe you should join them, you might blend in better.��


    ��No.��


    ��Absolutely not.��


    ��I only trust you.��


    ��I don��t want to interact with anyone else.��


    The White Queen sighed. Just then, Ashe suddenly let out a shriek. A figure appeared in front of the sports car, and then��


    Bang!


    The sports car braked hard, and the three of them were nearly thrown out by the inertia.


    Looking back, they saw that the figure that had appeared was now cut in two by the sports car��s Evil de, falling to the grass like two pieces of cloth with a p.


    Ashe immediately shifted the me: ��It��s your fault, Swordswoman, for distracting me!��


    Sonya retorted: ��It��s obviously because you weren��t driving carefully!��


    Deya wondered: ����Did we really just hit and kill a sorcerer?��


    Congrattions were in order; they hadn��t killed a person, just a Sorcerer Projection, which meant they had merely beaten a corpse.


    In other words, the first sorcerer projection Ashe and Sonya encountered on the Time Continent wasn��t killed inbat but by being hit with their car.


    Forget about skills, they didn��t even get a good look at what the Sorcerer Projection looked like before running it over�� It sounded rather callous.


    Unlike the Sea of Knowledge, Sorcerer Projections in the Time Continent don��t stay in one ce; they move around randomly, making itmon to encounter them suddenly during Exploration in Virtual Realm.


    Although the demise of this Sorcerer Projection was too swift, they were still able to determine its Faction from the spirits that dropped. It seemed to be a practitioner of both fire and Physical weakness, yielding a total of two Two Wing spirits and three One Wing spirits. As the first business transaction on the Time Continent, the profits were decent.


    None of them needed these spirits. Ashe thought for a moment and asked, ��Witch, do you have a way to convert spirits into other resources in reality? Before you joined, our way of distribution was to divide the spirits we didn��t need by value. The valuable ones were given to Swordswoman to sell for money, and the less valuable were left to me to exchange for special resources that only I could use.��


    Deya shook her head, ��I don��t have a convenient way to exchange spirits in reality. Just continue with your previous method of distribution. However, aspensation, could I have priority ess to the Sorcerer Handbooks?��


    Ashe��s eyes lit up, ��Can you read all Sorcerer Handbooks too?��


    ��Too?�� Deya blinked but shook her head, ��No, my sess rate of reading Sorcerer Handbooks is about 80%, not 100%. There are some particrly abnormal, disgusting, or bizarre handbooks that I simply can��t process.��


    ��Observer can read all Sorcerer Handbooks,�� Sonya said nonchntly, patting Ashe on the shoulder. ��Even those you can��t stomach, he can read with relish. Impressive, isn��t it?��


    The White Queen pped on the outside, but on the inside, she had already silently raised the threat level of Observer once again. Ever since entering the Virtual Realm, Observer��s demeanor had been too benevolent and even a bit scatterbrained, to the point that manymon pieces of knowledge among sorcerers were unknown to him, making everyone forget that he was a terrifying sorcerer capable of tracking, dominating, or defeating them.


    Deya��s reluctance to face Observer directly wasrgely due to the fact that Observer had oncepletely defeated her within the realm of her own mind.


    Facing such an existence that she couldn��t surpass even in thought, Deya was so afraid that she dared only to hide behind the White Queen.


    Now, Deya was even more terrified��the soul that could read all Sorcerer Handbooks might not be the most honorable, but it was definitely without limit, a thousand times more evil than the most malevolent viin in any fairy tale.


    Ashe, however, hadn��t noticed that Sonya had considerably lowered his reputation. After some thought, he said, ��No problem, then going forward, Witch, you can have first dibs on the Sorcerer Handbooks, and those you can��t read, pass them on to me�� Wait a second, the spirits that Swordswoman doesn��t need go to me, the handbooks that Witch can��t read go to me, why do I feel like I��ve be a trash bin?��


    ��Of course not,�� Deya immediately responded, ��It��s because we don��t have the ability to utilize these resources that we have to give them up. Observer, you can efficiently use these resources, and that��s a testament to your strength!��


    ��So you should be more confident,�� Sonya said with a squint and a cheerful snort through her nose, ��Take out the ��seems like��!��


    While they were talking, Deya picked up a Sorcerer Handbook that had fallen. The handbook was edged with gold, and its cover featured a ck me flower. As she opened the first page, she quietly activated the ��Mask spirit.��


    Personality Split��Mask Reshaping��Temporary Mode  Myriad Transformations!


    Deya��s hair began to shimmer with various colors; red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet were all present, thankfully without causing any light pollution. At first, the colors were bright and clear, but they gradually turned murky, like cheap paint spilling into a puddle, mixing into a dirty maroon.


    Not only Ashe, who knew the circumstances, but also Sonya, could see that Deya wasn��t relying on her own flexible values to read the Sorcerer Handbooks, but rather through some kind of Miracle.


    This was why Deya, without any formal sorcerer education, could still be a Two Wings sorcerer and set foot on the Time Continent��most of her sorcerer knowledge was acquired through reading Sorcerer Handbooks in the Virtual Realm!


    Even without Ashe��s exploratory skills, Deya had spent a full two years in the Sea of Knowledge, reading through over forty Sorcerer Handbooks. While her knowledge system wasn��t as well-organized as Sonya��s, she had mastered the basic knowledge required to navigate the Virtual Realm, making her a bona fide Combat-oriented Wildcat Sorcerer.


    A wildcat may not be as robust as a house cat, but its survival skills are in no way inferior, and may even be superior.


    Before turning to thest page, Deya stopped and handed it to Ashe, ��Do you want to have a look? There might be valuable intelligence worth noting in every Sorcerer Handbook. If you��re willing to let me have this handbook, just stop before you reach thest page.��


    Ashe had no objections and took the handbook to browse for a while, then suddenly eximed, ��Huh?��


    ��What��s wrong?��


    ��I think I might have seen someone we know in there.��

 Chapter 219: The Woman

    Chapter 219: The Woman


    Do we know each other?


    Sonya blinked and leaned in for a closer look, but quickly pulled back, ��You introduce it, I��m too pure to understand.��


    The recording mode of the Sorcerer Handbook is a mission log, which shows that its owner must be an organized sorcerer who likes to set small goals and is very good at striving. Every major event in their life is recorded as a mission,plete with summaries and reflections��an exemry worker indeed.


    Let��s call them the ��Mission Sorcerer��.


    ��Mission Name: ��Seed of Cataclysm Campaign��, Importance: �����


    ��Mission Objective: To be the Seed of Cataclysm��


    ��Mission Restriction: Only temple sorcerers who be Two Wings within three years are eligible.��


    ��Mission Reward: Bing the Seed of Cataclysm and earning the chance to enter the Spiral of Silence. Note, without exception, every Seed of Cataclysm emerging from the Spiral of Silence has be a Tri-wings and ascended to the upper echelons of the Temple.��


    ��Mission Failure: Loss of the opportunity to be the Seed of Cataclysm. Barring any idents, the highest future position can only be that of Assistant Priest at the Temple.����Mission Process: With the rise of the Spiral of Silence, the quinquennial selection for the Seed of Cataclysm quietlymenced.��


    ��There are two other candidates with the same qualifications as me: that woman and Frank. Frank is older and more experienced, beloved by the followers, making him the strongest contender; the woman is too young, but she exposed her boyfriend for hoarding spoils of war, proving her loyalty to the cause of cataclysm, and she ascended to a Two Wings within a year��an opponent not to be underestimated.��


    ��Frank, the leader of the Silver me Knights, increased the raid frequency to garner more votes and sessfully captured the dragon-wind Castle, bringing more followers and funds to the Temple. He enjoys immense prestige among the people and the clerics, like the dazzling and intense midday sun in the desert.��


    ��As for me, the vice-leader of the Discipline Priest Squad, I decided to increase patrol frequency and harshly punish the ouws in the area to gain recognition from the followers and the high priests.��


    Compared to the prominent positions we held, that woman was merely an ordinary nun in the missionary group, powerless and without influence, with nothing but her beauty to speak of. She should have been the first to be eliminated, barring any unexpected developments.


    That was until she came to me.


    She said someone had reported to her that Frank had engaged in intimate conduct with his team members.


    My first reaction was disbelief: All of us Sorcerers in the Temple are trained from a young age to resist the corruption of the Cataclysm. Our spirits are honed to the point of being free from desire, with physical cravings almost nonexistent. Moreover, many of us practice the ways of the Physical Faction, finding basic sustenance in sand and rest in the desert sands, leaving no room for additional desires.


    Furthermore, one of the most important Discipline rules in the Temple is that Clerics are forbidden from engaging in any acts that release desires. Once physical desires are ignited, they can burn fiercely, and a fiery heart is the kindling the Cataclysm finds easiest to consume.


    Even the love between Clerics must remain contactless and cherished. In contrast, rtionships that require intimacy are seen as tainted, disgusting, and corrupt. Therefore, the love between Clerics is the purest, transcending gender, Race, age, and all barriers.


    Beasts that follow their bodily desires have no ce as guardians against the Cataclysm.


    I refuted her with these points, and she did not continue, instead conceding her mistake and apologizing for her suspicions. But after she left, I couldn��t help but wonder, what if there was truth to Frank��s intimate behavior with his team members?


    If it was true, then he definitely could not be a Seed of Cataclysm. A Sorcerer whose body cannot uphold the restrictions would not survive in the Spiral of Silence.


    With this expectation, I inquired with many about Frank and found an increasing number of doubts. My suspicions, too, began to spread with my inquiries, and soon the whole Temple was abuzz with talk about Frank.


    When the Silver me Knights returned the next time, Frank confronted me, nearly beating me to death. However, upon investigation, it was confirmed that Frank had indeed engaged in intimate acts with ncos, a member of his team, and was stripped of his Cleric duties by the Bishop.


    ��I was confident, almost certain of victory, but on the day of voting, that woman won by andslide. Aside from a few friends, almost no one voted for me.��


    ��It was then that I realized the disdain my actions had garnered. My behind-the-scenes ndering of Frank,bined with the public beating I received from him without being able to retaliate, made my reputation plummet.��


    ��I was like the desert at night, cold to the bone and dark with fear. No Follower was willing to vote for me.��


    ��In contrast, that woman had been silently working, staying out of arguments and discussions, faithfully fulfilling her duties, and her beauty gradually earned her the admiration of many.��


    ��The sun is too scorching to tolerate any ws; the night too dark to invite approach. Only the water of Crescent Spring is sweet and liked by all.��


    ��I seemed to understand something, but it was already toote.��


    ��Mission oue: Failure.��


    ��Reflection and summary: Don��t trust women, especially beautiful ones.��


    Sonya reacted halfway through: ��The ��that woman�� mentioned here, could it be the ��her�� referred to in ��that Sorcerer Handbook�� we came across earlier?��


    Although Sonya��sment was abrupt, Ashe understood.


    He gave Deya a brief exnation of the background��the reason Ashe and hispanion remembered this character was because the Whirlpool Secret Poison came from ��that Sorcerer Handbook,�� which had left a deep impression on them. After all, the Whirlpool Secret Poison was a turning point in their Exploration in Virtual Realm, much like a new energy fund climbing steadily.


    In that handbook, the owner had finally made an eternal Contract with ��her,�� entrusting her with the maze toy that contained information on the Whirlpool Secret Poison.


    But as soon as ��she�� used the Whirlpool Secret Poison for her Promotion to the rank of Two Wings, ��she�� immediately betrayed the owner of the handbook to the Temple in exchange for wealth and honor.


    And the owner of the handbook never betrayed ��her�� until the end, a deep affection wasted like water flowing away.


    ��It��s very likely. Bing a Two Wings Sorcerer within a year, reporting a boyfriend for hoarding spoils of war, and the Temple of Cataclysmic Fire�� all the details match.��


    Ashe crossed his arms and furrowed his brows: ��The other Handbook is understandable since the entire text refers to either ��I�� or ��her��, with no real need to record names specifically. But why does the Mission Sorcerer in this Handbook not record her name and instead use ��that woman�� to refer to her? After all, Frank is mentioned by name directly.��

 Chapter 220: The Legend of the Rainbow Tail

    Chapter 220: The Legend of the Rainbow Tail


    It was an odd sensation��both handbooks mentioned the same person, yet both conspired to omit her name.


    Sonya and Deya had no leads on this, though it was nothing more than an insignificant detail.


    Ashe mentioned it to Sonya simply because the coincidence was too striking not to share as a piece of gossip. However, he wasn��t particrly curious.


    After all, the owners of the handbooks were from an unknown time, and ��she,�� ��that woman�� mentioned in the texts might well have been dead for centuries. If fate allowed, they might even end up exhuming her remains!


    This was the enchanting allure of the Virtual Realm, a final resting ce for knowledge and a graveyard for sorcerers.


    Each Sorcerer Handbook here chronicled a life from thousands of years ago, with stories so deeply engraved they may have been lost to the real world without any remaining written records.


    Reality is cruel to everyone, but the Virtual Realm cherishes each of its children.


    Ashe handed the Sorcerer Handbook back to Deya, and upon absorbing it, her hair quickly returned to white.


    ��What ability did you get?�� Ashe asked curiously.��Shouldn��t that be private? How can he have the nerve to ask? Go on, White Queen, Rush him, scold him to death!��


    ��My dear Princess, we��re teammates now, and it��s essential to be transparent about information that could potentially enhance ourbat strength.��


    Deya felt a strange sensation, her expression turning peculiar: ��I��ve gained a sensory ability called ��Love Hunting.����


    ��What?��


    ��It means, if someone harbors feelings of affection for another, I can easily sense it.��


    Upon hearing this, Sonya instinctively stepped back.


    But then she saw the Witch wink at her, with a look that said ��even without this ability, I could see right through you.�� Sonya tried to maintain eye contact with the Witch, but the blush on her face was impossible to hide.


    As Ashe recalled theter content of the handbook: ��Speaking of which, that Mission Sorcerer seemed to have captured many hidden couples within the Temple. Could it be that she awakened her own talent when she exposed Frank, bing a love cop? Nheless, this ability is quite practical, certainly more so than my ��Shovel Proficiency�� or ��Secrets of Bliss (effective only on females over two meters tall)��.��


    The trio got back into the sports car, and not long after they started driving, they heard a loud bang from the distant sky, followed by a crackling roar.


    But due to the obstruction of the Reverse Golden Rain, they couldn��t see what was happening, only vaguely sensing that a battle was unfolding in the sky.


    ��There really are people looking for trouble.��


    Sonya��s face showed a hint of surprise, but she wasn��t at all shocked.


    Deya shrugged: ��It happens almost every two or three nights, and at times, even three times in a single night. After all, the gulf between Gold Tier and Sanctuary-Level is just too vast to cross.��


    Ashe blinked: ��Do you know what happened?��


    ��A Sorcerer has taken to the skies with fully spread wings.��


    ��Fully spread wings�� Oh, right!��


    It was only then that Ashe had a sudden realization and turned to Sonya: ��Can��t we just fly up there? Flying has to be faster than driving, right?��


    ��Not possible,�� Sonya shook her head, pointing in the direction of the roaring noise: ��Once a Sorcerer attempts to fly, therge Knowledge Creatures nearby will immediately sense it. They will mercilessly attack any Sorcerer following the steps of the Reverse Golden Rain, as if punishing the Sorcerer for treading on thewn.��


    ��The difficulties Sorcerers face flying in the Time Continent are far more severe than what we encountered in the Sea of Knowledge when we were chased by monsters because creatures will attack from all directions, and it��s aerialbat. Even the most resilient Physical Sorcerer would quickly be devoured.��


    Ashe remembered the harrowing experience of being chased by nine Knowledge Creatures after triggering the Eviction Secret Poison and still felt a shiver: ��Then why do they want to fly?��


    ��They��re looking for the Rainbow Tail,�� said Deya.


    ��Rainbow Tail?��


    ��Just like the Virtual Realm legend of the Golden Fish,�� Sonya exined. ��It��s said that the Chariot of the Bull has a Rainbow Tail, and by following the Rainbow Tail, one can reach the back of the Chariot of the Bull, which is the thirdyer of the Virtual Realm��the Distant Skies.��


    Ashe asked doubtfully, ��If the Distant Skies are just above the White Bull, why can��t we just fly up there? Why do we need the Rainbow Tail? It��s not like the sky has a ceiling.��


    ��The main reason is that Two-Wings Sorcerers simply cannot fly to the top of the sky,�� Deya said. ��During the more than a month that I��ve been in the Time Continent, I��ve continuously heard about a dozen Sorcerers being hunted and killed by groups of Knowledge Creatures in the sky, but not a single one flew over five hundred meters; without exception, they all fell.��


    ��Those Sorcerers who can and dare to fly undoubtedly have fully spread their wings, and might even have developed a tactical system, possessing numerous Two-Wings spirits and Miracles. It��s not an exaggeration to call them the strong among Two-Wings Sorcerers. If it wasn��t for their inability to elevate their Faction Realm to Sanctuary-Level, they wouldn��t risk challenging the sky.��


    ��But even they cannot touch the sky, which shows that relying on flight to reach the Distant Skies ispletely unfeasible.��


    Ashe tilted his head, ��But isn��t the Rainbow Tail also high in the sky? After all, it��s the tail of the White Bull.��


    ��The information I found says that the Rainbow Tail might be very long, possibly even hanging down to the ground,�� Sonya said. ��These Sorcerers fly not to transmigrate through the sky, but to search for the Rainbow Tail that descends within the Golden Rain.��


    ��Although there is no evidence, many Sorcerers believe that once they enter the Rainbow Tail, the Knowledge Creatures will no longer attack them, and they will be able to follow the Rainbow Tail to the Distant Skies.��


    ��So the true meaning of the Rainbow Tail is a ��safe flight route������ Ashe finally understood, ��It��s a miraculous way of smuggling oneself����


    ��In the past, I would have definitely thought that the Rainbow Tail was just a myth passed around among Sorcerers,�� Sonya said with anticipation. ��But now it��s different, Observer, give it your all. Just like finding the Golden Fish, let��s find the Rainbow Tail too!��


    ��It��s not that simple,�� Ashe said with a touch of irritation. ��I have a feeling that the truth about the Rainbow Tail is like the true nature of the Golden Fish��definitely different from the information that��s been spread around. Otherwise, other Sorcerers would have already found it, and it wouldn��t still be a legend.��


    ��They sure are arrogant. There are only a few Sorcerers in the entire Virtual Realm who have found the Rainbow Tail, and here they are, setting it as their target right away. Go ahead and mock them!��


    ��If you��re so eager to express your desires, do it yourself.��


    ��The White Queen has changed; you don��t love me anymore.��


    ��My dear Princess, even if I loved you, I��d still find you annoying.��


    Ashe pushed the sports car to chase after time, looking at the area notifications on the Virtual Realm map, determined to scavenge at least one more Resource Point tonight.


    Suddenly, a series of golden areas appeared on the Virtual Realm map.


    Based on past experiences, golden areas indicated the presence of an Adventure. However, the area notification gave Ashe a chilling feeling��


    ��Everyone will grow old and die, including you, so you better hurry up.��

 Chapter 221: And Listening the Day Is Even More Formidable

    Chapter 221: And Listening the Day Is Even More Formidable


    ��Ha, ha����


    Ashe had just escaped the golden mist of the Area when he copsed to his knees on the grass, gasping for breath.


    He watched as his withered arm slowly regained its flesh tone, his breathing, once like a broken bellows, became smooth, and his sluggish thoughts sharpened as if rust had been removed, feeling a sense of relief like escaping from the jaws of death.


    Only now did he realize how blissful it was to be able to think continuously and seriously about an idea.


    When the Soul ages, thinking bes a luxurious indulgence. Your mind is like a severelygging machine; not only is executing a task process a challenge, but even attempting to summon the task manager to organize your thoughts only reveals that the task manager is stuck as well.


    After trying it once, even Ashe couldn��t help but feel a touch of fear.


    Aging is truly an indescribable terror.


    Suddenly, footsteps approached from behind. Just as Ashe was about to look back, he heard a hoarse, aged voice scream, ��Don��t look back!��


    Ashe obediently stared at the grass for a few seconds before hearing the Swordswoman��s voice, ��It��s okay now.��He turned around and, naturally, his gaze met the still young and beautiful Swordswoman and Witch.


    ��Actually, I wouldn��t mind seeing you aged,�� Ashe shrugged. ��On the contrary, I��m quite curious.��


    ��But! I! Mind!�� Sonya said through gritted teeth. ��I��m never going back! The books are all lies, who says you can get rich picking through trash on the Time Continent? Whoever wants that money can have it!��


    Ashe and the others had just entered one of the most famous Adventure areas of the Time Continent��the River of Flowing Gold. The vicinity of the River of Flowing Gold is home to Wild Time Spirits, including rare varieties such as ��Retrograde Year,�� ��Fixed Month,�� and ��Listening the Day.��


    ��Retrograde Year,�� as mentioned before, can reverse a person��s bodily time by one year, essentially a life extension without side effects, always a priceless treasure.


    Fixed Month is an enchantment that locks the current physical state of one��s body for a month. Although one can still be injured, aspects like skin, appearance, and hair quality remain unaffected by external factors. Whenbined with beauty miracles such as ��Bare-Faced Level Makeup,�� ��Radiant Glow,�� and ��Lustrous Hair,�� one can effortlessly maintain a top-tier appearance for a full month, impervious to the elements and even able to bathe or dive without issue. It is acimed as the ultimate in cosmetic products.


    The Time Spirits of the Listening the Day series are even more formidable, but let��s not delve into that for the moment.


    In summary, the River of Flowing Gold is a ce on the Time Continent specifically designed for bestowing fortunes, an Adventure spot of sorts. And the Time Spirits nearby do not flee; instead, they approach Sorcerers��the invading species��with less caution than a kitten would, actively seeking affection.


    Logically, such a prime location would have Sorcerers digging deep and reaching high, reluctant to leave once they find it. Yet, Ashe and hispanions fled in less than ten seconds, and even a fearless rustic girl warrior like Sonya now looks back at the golden mist surrounding the River of Flowing Gold with fear in her eyes.


    Had they been any slower, they might have copsed by the riverbank, aged to death in real-time.


    The River of Flowing Gold is able to gather and nurture so many Time Spirits because the Area around it has the characteristic of elerated time.


    For Time Spirits, the River of Flowing Gold is akin to an all-you-can-eat-and-y hydrotherapy buffet, with the elerated time acting like a Thai spa massage. Not only do they enjoy top-tier indulgence by staying there, but over time they can even evolve into Two Wings Time Spirits, making it something of a spa resort for them.


    For Sorcerers, however, the River of Flowing Gold is more like a branch of hell on the Time Continent.


    Just as the Areas without the River of Flowing Gold are known as Static Domains��where the stillness of time crystallizes a Sorcerer into a painting��the Areas near the River are called Dynamic Domains. Sorcerers bold enough to enter the Dynamic Domain age and wither under the eleration of time, which can range from ten thousand to a hundred million times the normal rate. The tumultuous time in the Dynamic Domain dposes a Sorcerer into dust.


    And unlike the silent and dignified death of the Static Domain, death in the Dynamic Domain is vivid and merciless.


    If the normal passage of time is like a drug test, then the elerated time near the River of Flowing Gold is akin to a dam gushing open. Sorcerer��s souls are nearly shattered by this rampage of time, leading to the physical decay, difficulty breathing, and sluggish thinking that are the hallmarks of aging, much as steel rusts when corroded by air.


    That��s why Ashe and the others were so terrified.


    Because this time, they truly smelled the scent of death.


    They hade to understand many forms of death, such as being killed by a Knowledge Creature, struck down by a Sorcerer Projection, drowning at sea, or bing petrified in the Static Domain. But these are all unnatural deaths, unlikely to ur in reality, and even if they did, they believed in their ability to avoid them.


    Aging is different because all that exists will eventually decay, stars will one day burn out; this is the Rules of all things. Even the likes of the Blood Saint Moonshadow, with their extended lifespans, will see their souls reach an endpoint.


    As Ashe looked at his own fair and strong arm, his mind couldn��t help but return to the withered, decayed hands he��d seen moments before. He knew that if he was lucky enough to live long enough, he would inevitably see those hands again.


    Aging represents an unstoppable death. They are like ants before a rolling wheel, only able to watch helplessly as the juggernaut of time approaches.


    It is this inability to struggle, this vulnerability, that is the source of their deepest fear.


    ��Feeling any better?��


    Ashe and Sonya��s hands were taken up by another pair of soft hands. Turning around, they saw Deya looking at them with a gentle smile.


    Feeling the warmth in her hands, their fear quickly dissipated.


    They had only been momentarily frightened by the illusion of aging, like school children just starting summer break who dream of being caught by their teacher for not doing their homework. But Deya��s tenderness was like a friend calling early in the morning to invite them out to y, reminding them that they still have wonderful days ahead, pulling them out of the mire of fear. Even if the day to face the teacher��s scolding inevitablyes, it��s not a concern for the present. For now, the priority is to relish in their youthful moments.


    Ashe asked, ��Witch, have you been to the River of Flowing Gold before?��


    ��This is my third time,�� Deya nodded. ��The first time I escaped from the River of Flowing Gold, myplexion was even worse than yours. Aging is indeed terrifying, and time deserves our respect, but there��s no need to feel inferior or to give up because of it.��


    ��We are Sorcerers, born to conquer everything. And there are those who have sessfully conquered time.��


    Divine Master!


    The term simultaneously sprang to mind for both Ashe and Sonya��as the supreme beings who control the destinies of countless lives, whose will bes the heavens�� decree, who create and rule over various Kingdoms, the lifespan of a Divine Master surely exceeds the existence of any Kingdom, perhaps living for thousands or even tens of thousands of years.


    If there were Sorcerers who have conquered time, the Divine Master would certainly be one of them.


    A desire that could only be described as a wild fantasy began to quietly sprout in their hearts.


    Not just for Sonya, the rustic girl who inherently craved fame and wealth, but also for Ashe, the office worker who had been softened by society into cotton candy, it was as if they were back to the days just after graduating from college, filled with impractical dreams of making it big in the city and buying an apartment with their own efforts.

 Chapter 222: The Greedy Swordswoman

    Chapter 222: The Greedy Swordswoman


    ��Speaking of which, while perusing some documents, I came across a Sorcerer who referred to the River of Flowing Gold as the ��River of Ambition.�� I couldn��t understand it at the time,�� said Sonya with a suddenugh. ��Now, I finally get it.��


    ��Fear can overwhelm courage, just as it can also fuel ambition,�� the White Queen agreed wholeheartedly. ��Sorcerers capable of transmigration into the Virtual Realm are the freest beings in the world. When faced with aging and death, they realize that the chains known as ��rules,�� ��reason,�� and mon sense�� in reality are nothing but trivial illusions.��


    ��There were never any chains to begin with. Sorcerers are born to conquer everything.��


    Boom!


    A sudden explosion thundered from the distant sky, followed by the roar of countless monsters. Clearly, someone was flying in search of the Rainbow Tail again.


    The trio looked in the direction of the noise for a while until Ashe suddenly said, ��You both need to work hard. As soon as one of you promotes to Sanctuary-Level within the Faction Realm, the other two can also climb to the Distant Skies, even without the Rainbow Tail and trespass into a higheryer of the Virtual Realm.��


    So there really was such a benefit�� Deya had faintly realized this teaming strategy of ��one advances, all benefit,�� when, without opening the Gate of Truth herself, she was brought into the Virtual Realm. If an Observer could directly open the gate to the fourthyer of the Virtual Realm, wouldn��t they instantly be legendary Sorcerers?


    However, the Observer��s power was only at Two Wings, and ording to the Swordswoman, memory had been lost, so everything had to start over�� Yet the Observer they encountered in reality didn��t seem to have lost any memory or power, but rather appeared even more diabolically charming and unruly than a legendary Sorcerer.


    The one in the Virtual Realm, though somewhat entric, was overall more amiable and approachable, like a cake in an afternoon tea.If not for her character beingrgely unchanged, the White Queen might have thought the Observer had siblings, just like herself.


    So, was the Observer the type to intimidate neers in order tomand them? From a management perspective, her approach wasn��t wrong��


    Or perhaps�� the White Queen nced at the Swordswoman.


    Could it be because the Swordswoman was present, the Observer dared not be too arrogant?


    ��You��re not nning to search for the Rainbow Tail anymore?�� Sonya asked.


    ��Of course I am, but you two can��t ck off either. If I don��t find it, we��ll have to rely on you two,�� Ashe said as he stood up, patting his behind. ��The Divine Master is still too far out of reach, but the Distant Skies are worth considering.��


    ��After all, if the Time Continent is this fascinating, what kind of scenery must be waiting for us in the Distant Skies?��


    Watching them getpletely invigorated, Deya felt their energy and said, ��Our trip to the River of Flowing Gold seems to have consumed about a third of our Soul Energy. We could probably make one more trip, what do you think����


    ��Let��s go tomorrow night.��


    ��We��ll talk about it next time.��


    Ashe and Sonya instantly chickened out, and the White Queen couldn��t help but cover her mouth as sheughed.


    Entering the River of Flowing Gold does not require the expenditure of Soul Energy, but restoring their aged and decayed souls back to normal does.


    If willing, a Sorcerer can enter and exit the River of Flowing Gold multiple times. In fact, many do just that, especially since Sorcerers like Ashe, who are able to ensure a nightly haul with the help of a Virtual Realm Map, are in the minority. Most Sorcerers wander the Time Continent to chance upon fortunes, and even if they stumble upon a Resource Point, they might not be able to defeat the fierce Gregarious Creatures there.


    For most Sorcerers, as long as they don��t die of old age, a round trip to the River of Flowing Gold is a profitable venture.


    Ashe and the others only spent a third of their energy because it was their first time and they weren��t skilled. If they were expert scavengers, they could potentially reduce their energy consumption to one-fifth or even one-sixth.


    The trio began to check their scavenging results. Ashe had the worst luck, picking up five spirits, none of which were high-value and didn��t belong to the coveted Fixed Day, Fixed Month, or Fixed Year series, but rather the cheapest series: seconds, minutes, and hours. These spirits can��t be used on their own but only serve as Casting Materials for Miracles.


    Sonya was a bit luckier; among the four spirits she picked up, one was a ��Fixed Day,�� which fixes one��s physical state for an entire day.


    Although ��Fixed Day�� is not as sought-after as ��Fixed Month�� or ��Fixed Year,�� Sonya could use it herself. She could use this spirit to set her makeup for an important event, and she wouldn��t need to touch it up for the whole day.


    And the luckiest among them was Deya.


    She had picked up only three Time Spirits: ��Retrograde Day,�� ��Ten Years,�� and ��Listening the Month��!


    ��Retrograde Day�� needs no further boration; it can be used directly as a Healing Spirit, allowing one��s physical state to revert to that of a day earlier. ��Ten Years�� is a Two Wings Spirit, not low in value, and even Sonya wouldn��t dare to buy it for casual use. ��Listening the Month�� is even more impressive, its value just a bit lower than that of ��Listening the Day.��


    Facing the envious gazes of the others, Deya said, ��Observer, could you give me the Time Spirits you picked up in exchange for ��Retrograde Day��? Swordswoman, you need ��Ten Years�� for your Sharpening Miracle, right? It��s yours.��


    Sonya instinctively refused, ��But those are your spoils of victory����


    Deya smiled, ��But we are a team now, and I have no use for ��Ten Years.�� Keeping that Spirit would be a waste. However, I do need the seconds, minutes, and hours Spirits for my ��Fast Forward�� Miracle. So, I��ll take those you��ve picked up. I don��t have a way to purchase Time Spirits right now; my only option is to rely on what we find in the Virtual Realm.��


    Ashe promptly handed over the five Time Spirits he had collected but declined the ��Retrograde Day��: ��I��m not likely to encounter Battle in reality anytime soon, nor face any danger, so Witch, you keep it.��


    Watching this, Sonya suddenly said, ��If he doesn��t want it, then give ��Retrograde Day�� to me. Witch, consider it a favor you��re doing for me.��


    Deya looked at Sonya with some surprise but, seeing no objection from Ashe, handed both ��Retrograde Day�� and ��Ten Years�� to the Swordswoman, saying, ��There��s no need for that. In a team, it��s normal to take what we need. Just prioritize giving me the resources I needter on.��


    But Sonya was insistent, ��I will repay this favor in the future.��


    Curious, Ashe asked, ��Swordswoman, are you preparing for an uing Battle? Is that why you need the Healing Spirit in advance?��


    ��Mind your own business,�� Sonya muttered, ��I never said I needed the Spirit for myself.��


    ��This woman is too much, wanting this and that. I, the Princess, despise such greedy people the most.��


    The White Queen watched as the Swordswoman tucked the ��Retrograde Day�� spirit into her bosom and thought to herself, ��Princess, there��s something I��m not sure if I should say.��


    ��What is it?��


    ��Although you��re mostly adorably foolish, sometimes you can be annoyingly so.��


    ��You shouldn��t have said that!��


    ��Toote.��

 Chapter 223: The Flaw of Bond

    Chapter 223: The w of Bond


    Although they intended to scavenge a second Resource Point, they encountered an old acquaintance along the way, the ying Fish-Dragon. Thinking it serendipitous to meet an old friend in a foreignnd, they decided why not seize the day and engaged in a friendly exchange on the spot.


    Despite the absence of the sea, the ying Fish-Dragon was not to be underestimated onnd, and it was not at the Juvenile Stage or Growth Stage, but a Large Creature very close to the Maturity Stage, with a body length of more than twenty meters, half of its scales transformed to a dark red hue.


    Once all its scales turned dark red, it would fully evolve into a Maturity Stage Rampage Dragon, capable of challenging the peak Two Wings Swordcerers. However, for now, it was at best half a step away from full maturity, just a little shy of evolution.


    What��s that? Why am I offering such a detailed introduction of this ying Fish-Dragon?


    Because it��s really quite wealthy.


    After a fierce Battle, the fortunate ying Fish-Dragon exploded into a trove of spoils, and the trio, well-prepared, simultaneously struck, capturing all the fleeing spirits.


    First, it dropped Two Wings ��sh Sword�� spirit and Two Wings ��Sword Scar�� spirit. Sonya, who wished to follow the traditional path of a Swordcerer, needed to upgrade the spirits of sh, pierce, and cut herself toy a solid foundation in swordsmanship, so the ��sh Sword�� was imed by Ashe, who cared little for foundations.


    ��Sword Scar�� waspatible with most swordsmanship spirits, and Sonya, notcking in Sword Scar��s output augmentation, but Ashe, currently only capable of Long-range Attack with ��Heart Sword��, could attempt tobine ��Heart Sword�� and ��Sword Scar�� to form a new Miracle, possibly creating a stable and efficient output method.


    Aside from swordsmanship spirits, the ying Fish-Dragon also dropped a Two Wings ��Water Erosion�� spirit.This spirit was imed by Deya, whose ��water thread�� was already an attack method based on Water Art spirits and expressed through the Fist and w Faction. The ��Water Erosion�� spirit could perfectly Fuse into herbat system, potentially creating a new Miracle.


    Besides these spirits, the other spirits of the ying Fish-Dragon were hardly worth mentioning and were all collected by Ashe��s spare Processor.


    But aside from spirits, the ying Fish-Dragon also dropped a Swordsmanship Orb!


    The orb was undoubtedly weed by Sonya, though she feigned reluctance at first, asking Ashe if he wanted it, all the while firmly grasping the orb in her hand, which Ashe couldn��t be bothered to call out.


    A single ying Fish-Dragon brought benefits to all three of them.


    ying Fish-Dragon, you are quite gentle.


    But the ying Fish-Dragon approaching Maturity Stage wasn��t nurtured on seaweed alone; it boasted a robust constitution, high defenses, and ferociousbat prowess. Unfortunately for it, Ashe and Sonya had in nearly a dozen ying Fish-Dragons in the Sea of Knowledge, able to predict its every move. When its tail lifted slightly, they knew it was about to relieve itself; when its head rose, they anticipated the forting screeching roar. The strategies of old fitted perfectly.


    Even if an error urred, the trio couldpensate for each other, denying the ying Fish-Dragon any chance to unleash its fury, ying it until the veryst second.


    Although they sessfully in this Knowledge Creature on the cusp of Maturity Stage, the Battlested a full half hour, leaving Ashe and the others�� arcane energy and Soul Energy significantly depleted, making further exploration impossible.


    Arcane energy is akin to a mana bar, which can be replenished with Rest in the Virtual Realm; Soul Energy is like abination of a health and stamina bar, depleted by injury and activity, and cannot be restored in the Virtual Realm. Once depleted, one must exit the Virtual Realm, or the soul could be damaged.


    After arranging their loot in the sports car, Ashe stated, ��Everyone performed well tonight. Let��s keep up the good work tomorrow night. Tonight��s achievements set the benchmark for tomorrow; let��s strive to improve a bit every day! So now we����


    ��Observer,�� Sonya suddenly interrupted. ��There��s something I want to discuss with you.��


    ��Sure, go ahead,�� Ashe replied readily.


    Deya, being considerate, stood up: ��I��ll go and integrate the new spirit. Just let me know when you��re done talking.��


    Once the Witch��s figure vanished into the Reverse Golden Rain, Sonya turned to Ashe, her throat full of words that ultimately condensed into a single sound: ��Hmph!��


    ��You��re still upset?�� Ashe said, half amused, half exasperated. ��Didn��t you just ept the Witch into the team?��


    ��It��s not that�� It��s not just�� Never mind.��


    Sonya waved dismissively, her mood visibly downcast. She suddenly asked, ��Can��t you hear my Inner Voice in the Virtual Realm?��


    Ashe seemed puzzled but answered, ��Of course not.��


    Not only in the Virtual Realm, but never at all.


    Wait, is there a feature in the game that allows listening to an Operator��s Inner Voice? Is that why the Swordswoman believes I can hear hers?


    In these types of collection and nurturing mobile games, there indeed exists a mechanism where tapping on an Operator��s portrait prompts them to utter a few lines of dialogue. As the trust level of the Operator increases, their dialogue bes more intimate and revealing.


    However, Ashe, during his downtime in Shattered Lake Prison, had thoroughlybed through the game��s system without finding any other functional modules. Damn, could it be that this feature was lost a while back and was never repaired?


    *Sigh��*


    Sonya, leaning against the rear seat, gazed out at the Golden Rain and let out a soft sigh.


    This was the first time Ashe had seen the Swordswoman looking so troubled. In his memory, she was always full of vigor and aggression, even in the face of setbacks, she would only be more determined to fight back. She was like a proud and imposing flower, holding her breath, determined to bloom brightly and outshine all others, beyond anyone��s control.


    But now, she seemed like a hidden flower blooming quietly in a secluded corner of a garden, self-pitying and quiet, yet possessing a strangely captivating charm.


    However��


    ��Your face really doesn��t match contemtion,�� Ashe teased, poking her forehead with his finger. ��Are you troubled by something? Share it with me; it might cheer me up.��


    ��It should be ��sorrow�� that doesn��t suit me!�� Sonya retorted, protecting her forehead. ��How are you doing now?��


    How did the topic switch to me? Ashe blinked, ��Thanks to you, I��m getting by.��


    ��Be more specific,�� Sonya nced at him with mock annoyance. ��Have you left the Blood Moon Kingdom? Is your current residence safe? Are you in danger often? Do you have any pressing difficulties? I might not be able to help, but at least I could offer some advice.��


    Sonya had wanted to ask these questions much earlier, but her attention was swept away by the Witch joining the team as soon as they entered the Virtual Realm, followed by the Observer bringing in a sports car for their Exploration in the Virtual Realm. With the Witch always at their side, Sonya couldn��t find a chance to speak privately with the Observer.


    As the team was about to disband and disconnect from the Virtual Realm, Sonya had no choice but to take the initiative to ask the Observer for a private conversation. She didn��t have to ask, really; the fact that the Observer could enter the Virtual Realm implied that he was safe in reality and even had a stable ce to live. After all, a homeless person sleeping under a bridge wouldn��t dare to undertake Exploration in the Virtual Realm.


    But she wanted to ask.


    Ashe nced at Sonya thoughtfully and then suddenly let out a chuckle. Sonya, unnerved by hisughter, pouted, ��What��s so funny?��


    ��Nothing, I��m just happy that you care about me.��


    ��I, I was just����


    ��No need to exin, it��s nice to hold onto this feeling of being moved,�� Ashe said with a smile. ��While I was on the run, I thought about how you were doing too. I figured you must be missing me as well, and now it��s proven that our sacred Bond truly connects us.��


    Sonya paused for a moment, ��You thought of me while you were fleeing?��


    ��Yeah,�� Ashe nodded. ��It��s a shame that the deeper our Bond bes, the less we can meet in reality. From now on, we can only meet in the Virtual Realm.��


    If the Witch hadn��t told Ashe about this rule, he might have been secretly resenting the Swordswoman for noting to visit him. It seems that apart from the Pay-to-Win aspect working perfectly, the game system has many other peculiar ws.


    ��So that��s how it is���� Sonya nodded thoughtfully.


    No wonder the Observer hadn��t visited her dormitory for so long. It turns out that he could only appear before her when their Bond was still weak. As their rtionship grew closer, he could no longer enter her private space, nor could he hear her Inner Voice�� Thinking about it, this Restriction seemed to actually be considerate of her.


    However, I��m not that concerned about him entering my private space anymore��


    And I��ve also learned how to hide my Inner Voice��


    This Restriction�� it really came at the wrong time.

 Chapter 224: Retrograde Day

    Chapter 224: Retrograde Day


    ��As for my current situation,�� Ashe began, ��I��ve already escaped from the Blood Moon Kingdom, and then����


    He cut off there.


    From the first second he arrived in the Gospel Kingdom, Annan became an unavoidable key figure. Ashe had barely set foot on the ground before Annan picked him up from the wilderness talent market.


    However, due to the Contract, Ashe couldn��t reveal any information about Annan. Even an unintended slip would be prohibited by the Contract, let alone that his current predicaments, new residence, and new job were all closely linked to Annan. He was so tied up in secrecy that even his underwear, purchased with Annan��s money, was ssified information.


    He had a plethora ofints he wanted to share with the Swordswoman, but everything ultimately pointed back to Annan, so there was nothing he could say. Any piece of information might unveil the secret of being supported by Annan.


    ��And then?�� Sonya blinked.


    ��I can��t tell you,�� Ashe said helplessly. ��I signed a draconian Contract that forbids me from divulging any details. All I can say is that I��m safe for now, preparing for a grand n that would desecrate the Divine Master, and I��ve also gained a daughter����


    ��A daughter!?��


    ��Shouldn��t you be more concerned about the n to desecrate the Divine Master?����Well, you��re not going to tell me anyway����


    Sonya��s lips moved slightly, then she suddenly remembered the Observer was a revived powerhouse. He must have been entangled in past causes and effects. Given his propensity for indulgence, he might have had a dozen partners in the past. Looking down, she said, ��That makes sense, given your age, you��re bound to have children����


    What does she mean ��given my age��?


    I��m only in my twenties. Do I look like someone with kids? Although, to be fair, quite a few of my middle school ssmates already have their second child��


    ��It��s actually just a pitiful kid who insists on calling me dad. I haven��t agreed to it, but looking after her is part of the job, so I had to ept. Don��t get the wrong idea, alright? I��m not married yet.��


    ��What misunderstanding? I don��t care whether you��re married or not.��


    Sonya snorted, thinking to herself, could it be that the Observer became a teacher after transmigrating to a new kingdom? And he��s taking care of a child?


    How is he taking care of her? Surely he��s not using his powers to force the child to study, is he?


    ��Anyway, you don��t have to worry about me; I��m safe for now.��


    Ashe said, ��What about you? Are you still enjoying life at the academy?��


    ��It��s okay, I guess. There are just a lot more admirers now, and I have to sign autographs every time I step out. I was even interviewed by reporters recently. Seems like a lot of people are calling me the top Swordsmanship Genius of Gales. I��ve received so many party invitations, it��s a lot of pressure, and I feel like I��ve lost weight����


    ��You think I��m going to say I��m envious? Because I really am.�� Ashe almost sounded sour. Sonya��s fulfilling college life made this out-of-date college student, whose only social activity was gaming in the dorm, very envious.


    ��All of this is because of you. Just over twenty days ago, I was just an unnoticed, pure, pretty, and cute college girl,�� Sonya shrugged. ��So�� thanks.��


    ��Didn��t I say we don��t need to talk like that? And what does it have to do with me? It was all your own storyline development. I just told you to train properly,�� Ashe shook his head, leaning back in the chair and said irritably, ��And this kind of verbal thanks without any benefits, it��s like praise without a raise. It doesn��t stir any feelings in me, it��s even kind of nauseating����


    A pair of fair arms gently wrapped around his neck from behind.


    Not with a choking strength, but with a tender, careful one, yet with a force that seemed to want to meld him into herself, like the ambiguous warmth of the sun after a nap.


    The arms were resilient. The Virtual Realm body is a reflection of the real one, and in reality, the Swordswoman practiced her swordsmanship diligently. Even without intentional exercise, her hands would inevitably be strong, probably with biceps stronger than Ashe��s. Ashe liked these healthy lines.


    The warm breath brushed through his hair and tickled his earlobe, making him feel a bit itchy. He had just turned his head when Sonya immediately let go and stepped back, looking sideways at the Golden Rain outside as if she couldn��t get enough of it: ��For you.��


    For me?


    Ashe was startled, then realized that when the Swordswoman had hugged his neck, she had slipped a Healing Spirit into his embrace.


    It was the highly efficient Healing Spirit ��Retrograde Day�� that even a fool Sorcerer could use.


    Sonya had obtained the spirit but hadn��t bonded with it, so it remained unimed and avable for any Sorcerer to use.


    ��I����


    ��If you don��t need it, just recycle it. Don��t give it back to me, and definitely don��t give it to the Witch.��


    ��You����


    ��I��ve thought it over, and I realized I don��t really need this spirit, that��s why I��m giving it to you. No other reason.��


    Ashe cocked his head at her, ��If you wanted me to take ��Retrograde Day��, why didn��t you just say so earlier? The Witch was nning to give it to me anyway.��


    ��But if she gave it to you, wouldn��t you owe her a favor?��


    ��That��s just normal resource distribution, how does it be a favor����


    ��If it��s normal resource distribution, then why did you refuse ��Retrograde Day��? Because you know, the temporal spirits you found can��tpare to ��Retrograde Day��, and that��s why you were embarrassed to ept it. If the Witch insisted on giving it to you, you��d definitely feel obligated by the favor!��


    ��Even if it��s a favor, it��s useless. I��m quite fair and won��t be bought by one or two bribes.��


    ��What about ten times or a hundred times? The Witch started pleasing you from day one, and if she keeps umting favors, she��ll eventually make you lean towards her!


    ��Hmm, you have a point���� Ashe had to admit the Swordswoman was right: ��But if you take ��Retrograde Day��, don��t you owe her a favor too?��


    ��I��ll repay what I owe her. My rtionship with her is purely transactional; favors won��t affect it,�� Sonya said. ��More importantly, even if I don��t repay her, I won��t feel any burden about it, unlike you who might crumble under such sugar-coated shells.��


    ��I can��t believe I��m actually starting to think this spirit of only taking money without doing favors is some kind of righteousness���� Ashe quipped. ��You don��t have to be so wary of the Witch, though. We may not be that close to her now, but eventually, we will be partners with a strong Bond.��


    ��We��ll see about that,�� Sonya replied nomittally, her eyes fixed on ��Retrograde Day�� in Ashe��s hand. ��Are you going to take it or not?��


    Even though Ashe felt he really didn��t need ��Retrograde Day�� to save his life, how could he refuse after the Swordswoman had put it that way?


    He couldn��t help but think that if he refused one second, the next second the Swordswoman might chop him to the point where he��d actually need ��Retrograde Day�� to save his life.


    Harnessing arcane energy to dominate ��Retrograde Day��, Ashe suddenly said, ��Wait a minute, by your logic, you took ��Retrograde Day�� from the Witch and then handed it over to me, so you want me to owe you a favor?��


    ��Yes, you should remember this favor, and never forget it for the rest of your life.��


    ��But if I owe you a favor, won��t I be biased towards you?��


    ��Aren��t you already biased towards me?��


    Right, resources were being prioritized for the Swordswoman, so that was not an issue.


    ��While I��m ttered that you both are trying to please me, and I must admit it��s quite gratifying, your realpetitivenesses from your own strength, not my attitude towards you. Once or twice is fine, but please don��t focus on that,�� Ashe said, scratching his head. ��We are just three people; infighting would be suicidal.��


    ��I��m not trying to please you����


    ��Aren��t you trying to please me?��


    ��Yes.��


    Sonya looked away from Ashe��s gaze, speaking softly, ��But that��s not the only reason.��


    Not far from the sports car, on thewn, Deya was rolling around yfully. Tired from her frolicking, shey down on the grass, spread out like the letter ��big��,pletelycking her former poise and grace.


    ��Finally got some time to have fun.�� She stretchedzily, murmuring, ��Rolling around on the grass is a must-do activity when you��re on the Time Continent!��


    Out of the blue, the White Queen said, ��The Swordswoman should give it away too.��


    ��Give away what?��


    ��The ��Retrograde Day�� spirit. The reason she took ��Retrograde Day�� is to give it to the Observer.��


    ��What?�� Deya sat up in shock. ��She took our stuff to give to the Observer? How despicable, the world of adults is so disgusting, no wonder she wanted us to leave, she didn��t want us to interfere with her currying favor with the Observer!��


    ��It��s not that despicable or disgusting, she��s not doing it just to please the Observer.��


    ��Then what else is it for?��


    ��Princess, ��Retrograde Day�� is a highly efficient healing spirit. We thought of trading it to the Observer, but after he refused, the Swordswoman took the initiative to take it. Even though the Observer believes he doesn��t need something like ��Retrograde Day�� at his side, the Swordswoman may not agree with his opinion.��


    ��She might just be worried about the Observer��s safety.��

 Chapter 225: Harvey

    Chapter 225: Harvey


    Ahhh


    Lise was awakened by the sunlight streaming through the window, clutching a teddy bear in her left arm and rubbing her eyes with her right hand as she sat up, clearly having had a restless night. Her sisters hade back in the middle of the night and, instead of sleeping, they had chatted away, forcing her to get up to use the bathroom.


    After peeing, her sisters were still discussing matters rted to the Virtual Realm, and Lise had be so captivated by the conversation that she ended up sleep-deprived and exhausted.


    In fact, if Lise hadnt taken control of her body, she would have had sufficient rest.


    When a Sorcerer links to the Virtual Realm, their body is effectively put into a state of automatic sleep by the realm, entering directly into deep sleep.


    Most creatures alternate between light and deep sleep, with the restorative effects of deep sleep being the most beneficial, despite it being a small proportion of the overall sleep cycle.


    Sorcerers able to voluntarily enter deep sleep only need to spend 2 hours in the Virtual Realm for their bodies to recover enough energy tost the next 22 hours. And unless they are extremely unlucky, most Sorcerers explorations in the Virtual Realm average around four hours, which replenishes their energy to nearly overflowing levels.


    This is one of the reasons why Sorcerers are part of the elite ss in various Kingdoms. Not all Sorcerers wield violent power, but they all have more real-world time and ample energy throughout the entire day without fatigue.


    Simply put, Sorcerers not only possess higher Talents than ordinary people, but they also work harder, have more time  even moving bricks they would do it faster, stronger, and more vigorously. Not to mention, Sorcerers benefit from a more rewarding feedback mechanismordinary people may not seed despite their efforts, but Sorcerers are certain to reap rewards for their efforts, growing stronger day by day even by just going through the motions in the Virtual Realm.Though ying the same game, only Sorcerers are truly yers, while ordinary people are merely NPCs there to enhance the atmosphere.


    When Deya entered the Virtual Realm and let Lise take over the body, it was akin to sacrificing the benefit of sleep assistance from the Virtual Realm. Moreover, since their bodies had turned into childrens, they couldnt recover without a solid nine hours of sleep.


    As for why they would endure such an arduous and thankless task it was, of course, to conceal the fact that they were Sorcerers.


    Being able to immediately enter a deep sleep state is both a privilege and a symbol of Sorcerers. That is to say, if someone falls asleep and remains utterly still, with no bodily movements, and sleeps for less than five hours, that person is most certainly a Sorcerer. Conversely, someone who gets up in the middle of the night, kicks off their nkets, drools, and sleeps for more than seven hours, could not possibly be a Sorcerer.


    While at the Tower, even though Princess Deya had summoned her Mask spirit and began her Virtual Realm Adventure three years prior, she managed to deceive everyone with this trick, even the Sanctuary Sorcerers couldnt see through her disguise. To everyone else, she always appeared as the innocent and naive Lise Deya, who could only fall asleep while hugging her teddy bear.


    Now, although she was no longer a princess, it was still necessary to conceal her Sorcerer identity. If Annan were to discover that Lise was a Sorcerer, all her efforts would be wasted. Moreover, Deya had be ustomed to leaving a sister behind to watch over her body in reality. Without doing so, she felt as uneasy and distracted as if she were not wearing underwear, unable to focus on Exploring the Virtual Realm.


    Yawning, Lise freshened up in the Restroom and upon returning to her room, she saw Ashe, Igor, Harvey, and Banjeet all enjoying breakfast, all of them looking energetic and clearly having spent the night in the Virtual Realm.


    At that moment, Annan came out of his room. Lise thought for a second, loosened her hastily tied pigtails, and holding a hairband, she tugged at Ashes sleeve, Daddy, braid my hair.


    Ashe, who was indulging in a custard L Fatty, blinked and nced at the approaching Annan. He didnt reject the presumptuous request, instead, he scooped Lise into his arms and began a series of ferocious maneuvers.


    In the matter of dressing up, Ashe was a professionlbeit in a destructive manner. With nothing but a messy hairstyle, hepletely ruined the potential beauty of little Lise, akin to preparing the finest L Fatty ingredients into the most unptable dish. Lises forehead hair was pulled taut, causing her eyes to be drawn upward by the hairs tension, turning her pretty,rge eyes into an unattractive squint.


    However, Ashe wasnt picking on Lise intentionally; he was genuinely unskilled at hair braidinghis mother had short hair, and his brother had maintained a crew cut for over twenty years. Where would he have had the chance to learn hair braiding?


    But Ashesck of hair braiding skills wasnt a big deal. As long as he made Lise look unattractive, it would trigger the aesthetic auto-correction mechanism in the room.


    Ashe held Lise in his arms, both of them staring intently at Igor across the table.


    Stare (==)~


    Stare (=^^=)~


    One second, two seconds, three seconds. As soon as Annan sat down, Igor couldnt take it anymore. Come here, Ill braid your hair. Ashe, your hands are only fit for carving flowers in crap.


    Next time you want your hair braided, just go straight to Aunt Bukin. She wont refuse your request to protect her own eyes, Ashe said with a chuckle, setting Lise down.


    While Igor took out his own littleb to tidy Lises hair, Harvey, who had finished breakfast, walked to the living room balcony and lit a Catnip, asking, Annan, whats the n for today?


    There could be one, or there could be none.


    The Scarlet Gold Dragon Lizard suddenly appeared on Annans shoulder. As Annan tore a piece of a bagel to feed it, he said, Today is May 4th, and the official start date for your job is the 10th. Before that, you are free to move around and dont need to apany me.


    Free? Harvey squinted his eyes. You call this freedomnot being able to contact the outside world, not being allowed to go out for air, or even forbidden to research Magical Factions?


    Although Harvey didnt and couldnt make an aggressive stance, the Butler Youth stealthily stepped forward to stand between the Necromancer and the Miss.


    Ashe nced at Igor, who was focused on braiding Lises hair, only sharing a brief eye contact with the Cult Leaderits not my business, I didnt conspire with Harvey, this is his own sudden move.


    So, what kind of freedom do you want? Annan turned his chair to face the balcony, tilting his head slightly as the amethyst earring sparkled in the sunlight. I dont think you would just want to go out to smell the flowers, bask in the sun, and experience the exotic atmosphere, right?


    I want to go to the Sewer on the lower level.


    The sunlight seemed to take on a purple hue, and a chilling cold filled the space like mercury spilling everywhere. Ashe put down his L Fatty, and Igor held Lise in his arms.


    They almost forgotalthough Annan had used despicable means to recruit them, Annan was himself a Two Wings Sorcerer. Compared to the Mind Sorcerer who was not adept at directbat, the Necromancer who heavily relied on the battlefield environment, and the rookie Sorcerer who had just set foot on the Time Continentst night, the Purple Moth who dared to negotiate with the Four Pirs Cult was likely the most powerful among them.


    Not to mention the over-sixty-year-old expired youth, Banjeet.


    Found in the Gospel? Annan flicked his earring, producing a ding sound: Let me guess how you searched for this informationWhere in Azura can someone kill without attracting the attention of the Red Caps?


    Actually it was Where in this city are corpses most likely to appear, Harvey said. I was expecting the name of a shoddy hospital toe up; it seems Azuras healthcare environment is quite good.


    I may not have said it, butwhether or not one adheres to social norms and morals is a very important factor in the Gospel ranking list, Annans eyes seemed to be covered with ayer of purple: Without my order, you are not allowed to kill anyone, not even a L Fatty.


    I didnt say I was going to kill anyone, Harvey finished hisst puff, flicking the cigarette butt over the balcony: Necromancers have plenty of legal means to obtain a Corpse


    The Butler Youth stretched out his hand, and an icicle formed at his fingertip, instantly piercing the ten meters distance and freezing the cigarette butt in mid-air, then with a slight curl of his finger, the frosty cigarette butt arced into his palm.


    It doesnt matter at home, but throwing a cigarette butt outside vites the High-Rise Residential Security Regtions and the Public Security Management Measures.


    Banjeet spoke calmly: Please do not engage in actions that diminish your own value. The Gospel is watching you.

 Chapter 226: You Were a Woman All Along?!

    Chapter 226: You Were a Woman All Along?!


    So fast!


    Ashe gasped in surprise. Harvey��s act of flicking away his cigarette butt was incredibly sudden. The butt fell to the ground in less than a second, yet Banjeet not only reacted in time, but also shot out an ice spike with speed that was almost invisible to the naked eye, and with rming uracy��considering it was aimed at a falling cigarette butt that was already burnt out, smaller than a fingertip!


    If Banjeet were to use this move in a close-range assault, Ashe was certain he wouldn��t be able to react in time and would have to rely on ��Primal Instincts�� to dodge.


    He also had a hunch about Harvey��s intentions. Harvey��s outburst first thing in the morning was naturally not just about the Corpse��after all, he had spent over a year in Shattered Lake Prison without indulging in carnal desires. Arriving in the Gospel Kingdom just a few days ago, it was unlikely he would be so impatient. He was a pervert, not a Bewitcher; his desires weren��t that strong.


    Harvey��s real aim was to tear apart Annan��s hypocritical facade.


    Annan imed to respect and care for them, but his actions were effectively imprisoning them, cutting off all theirmunications, and blocking all their exits. Ashe and the others had taken note and could understand the reasons, but that didn��t mean they epted them.


    The Con Artist hadn��tshed out yet because he wanted to gather more information. In his day-to-day interactions, he even maintained a superficial rtionship with Annan, waiting to catch him off guard before making his move; while the Cult Leader hadn��tshed out simply because he hadn��t grown tired of the food here yet. However, having the same dish for breakfast two days in a row, the former Death row inmate who hadn��t repeated a meal for half a month in Shattered Lake Prison was starting to have someints.


    Harvey brought their conflicts to light, effectively cornering Annan. Annan had only two options: the first was to tear away his ��good boss�� Mask and reveal the true face of a ve master.


    No more pretending, it��s all out in the open now, all three of you will be my dogs!


    And the second option��


    ��Mr. Harvey wishes to select fresh Corpse materials, what about you? Do you have any requests?��


    Igor was unapologetic: ��This Kingdom also has a Curtain for the exchange of knowledge. I desire ess to log into the Curtain, and preferably, arge-screen multimedia Curtain login device.��


    ��I want money,�� Ashe said bluntly. ��I yed a virtual game yesterday and realized that without spending money, there are no experience boosts, increased drop rates, starter sets, or daily check-in rewards. You need to put in at least a bit of money for a good gaming experience.��


    ��I want lots of clothes, plushies, candies, and, and��more,�� Lise counted on her fingers, making her wishes.


    ��I��ve heard all your requests,�� Annan said. ��Some are reasonable, others are outrageous, but as your boss, I can fulfill them all����


    ��As long as you can beat me in the game.��


    ��Game? What game?�� Igor spected with maximum malice about Annan��s plot. ��Aplex local game unique to the Gospel Kingdom?��


    ��No, no, no, this game is notplicated at all, and it��s very favorable to the side with more people.��


    Purple Moth lightly flicked her earring, making a crisp sound.


    ��As long as you know yourpanions well enough.��


    That��s it, everyone thought.


    At Kaimon College Affiliated Hospital.


    As the light in the operating room switched from red to green, a slender Crow Medic came out, and the assistant who had been waiting outside for a long time immediately went up to meet her: ��Dr. Sivirin, how did the surgery go?��


    ��The surgery was a sess.�� Sivirin removed her Crow Mask and hood, pulling out her long hair that was tucked inside her coat. ��His failed life is over now.��


    ��I��ve preserved the vital organs with a Miracle, let the Department of Corpse Management know toe pick up the Corpse. Speaking of which, there are really a lot of people who have no social value while alive; I��ve only been here a few days and have already performed three Life Restart surgeries.��


    ��Dr. Sivirin, you��re surprised because you��re young,�� the assistant said with a smile. ��There are far too many people like that. They��re neither willing to undergo bio-modification to work nor willing to take risks to earn money. They don��t even have an acquaintance to borrow money from, just loiter in the park all day, wasting time, licking the vor off candy wrappers they find in the trash�� Only a small portion get the chance to be sent to the hospital. These vagrants are quite cunning, and the volunteers can��t keep up with cleaning them out.��


    Following the ��Fernand Snow incident,�� Sivirin decided to end her Blood Embrace Ritual and leave Shattered Lake Prison. However, she didn��t n to return to the Grand Research Institute immediately. Instead, she chose to intern at a hospital with the goal of advancing both her Water Faction and Blood Magic practices to the Gold Tier before going back.


    This time, she didn��t hide her identity. She presented her Schr credentials from one of the four major institutes with confidence. The hospital was naturally eager to assist a Princess in her studies and ced her in the hospital��s most popr position��the Fourth Emergency Department.


    Each hospital has four emergency departments, categorized by patient type. The first three are not the focus here; the Fourth Emergency Department specializes in catering to individuals with poor social credit, past criminal records, and who are unable to have low emergency fees deducted from their bank ounts.


    Like the Department of Corpse Management, the Fourth Emergency Department is a ��privileged department�� that only Medics of the sacred bloodline can join. The job of the Fourth Emergency Department is simple��determine if the patient has any value to save. If they do, they are treated; if not, they are sent to the Department of Corpse Management.


    How is a patient��s value determined? Through Memory Extraction.


    As you may have surmised, the Fourth Emergency Department isn��t just for training Medics in medical skills; it��s also an effective study room for rapidly training in the Mind Faction.


    This is why in the Blood Moon Kingdom, there are no training methods for the Mind Faction��sacred bloodline Sorcerers don��t need those slow conventional learning methods. They use spirits to forcibly extract memories from others. Even if it damages the patient, the Sorcerer gains a wealth of mind experience, allowing the Mind Faction to progress rapidly.


    It��s like not learning any driving knowledge and going straight to driving a car. After totaling a few dozen vehicles, you��d essentially be a professional hitman on the road. While the Fourth Emergency Department isn��t as extreme, merely after three Memory Extractions, Sivirin��s Mind Faction abilities had significantly advanced into the Silver Rank, showcasing the efficiency of her learning.


    However, don��t be mistaken��the Fourth Emergency Department isn��t a department that kills; most of the time, it operates as a normal emergency ward without causing death.


    Because Sorcerers of the sacred bloodline must not only extract but also browse and analyze the memories of patients, there are many dimensions to consider. For instance, does the patient have the ability to work, could they be a burden to others thereby reducing their work efficiency, or could they be an object of disdain to elevate someone else��s sense of superiority in life�� The analysis is multifaceted. Sometimes, even if the patient is deemed worthless, as long as they can enhance the gaming experience of others, the Fourth Emergency Department may opt to save them.


    It is only when an individual��s social ties are utterly destroyed and they hold no value to others or to society that the Fourth Emergency Department will perform a ��Life Restart�� procedure on them.


    There is no risk in doing so.


    Those who are uncared for naturally have no one concerned about their life or death.


    Evidently, Sivirin was lucky, encountering such ��rare specimens�� three times in a row, allowing her to use Memory Extraction without any reservations.


    Due to these benefits, Sorcerers eagerly flock to the Fourth Emergency Department. However, there is a Loophole in this efficient waste disposal system��homeless individuals don��t just wander into hospitals of their own ord. Who is responsible for picking up this ��garbage��?


    The ��Volunteers�� that Sivirin mentioned are those eco-conscious individuals who willingly take to the streets to pick up trash, driven by a zeal for public welfare.


    Perhaps there is some encouragement from the sacred bloodline or perhaps not, but there is always a segment of the poption that chooses to venture out at night, specifically to seek out homeless individuals unwilling to take out loans for work and use them for violent catharsis. Unfortunately, they often cannot cross the psychological barrier and stop short of killing, hence the existence of the Fourth Emergency Department.


    The presence of these Volunteers has significantly cleaned up the city environment. However, the more astute homeless individuals have learned to strategically relocate, resulting in the Sewer rats being hit with a demotion in status.


    Nevertheless, the Government Affairs Hall will soon install iron barriers and a series of Restriction measures in the sewers��deserters are not tolerated on this urban battlefield.


    ��Dr. Sivirin, there is a patient waiting in your office for a scheduled Biological Prosthesis transformation.��


    ��Biological Prosthesis transformation?�� Sivirin was puzzled, ��Aren��t there better qualified individuals in the hospital�� Oh, I see now.��


    Certainly, the hospital harbored Bio-modification physicians with more expertise than Sivirin, so this patient was specifically presented to the Princess of the sacred bloodline for practice��if patient assignments were truly based on technical proficiency, wouldn��t Sivirin be left sitting on the bench for a year?


    Should the hospital dare to leave Sivirin benched, it wouldn��t be long before her Senior Brothers and Senior Sisters would have the hospital��s upper management hanging from the rafters.


    However, as soon as Sivirin entered her office, she immediately discarded her previous conjecture��the hospital wasn��t paying her a courtesy, it was clearly tossing a hot potato her way!


    Inside the office sat two people: a tall man dressed in a hunter��s coat, his right hand adorned with a Sin Hunter Half-sleeve, white-haired and blood-eyed, his face etched with age and indifference; and a lovely girl in a wheelchair, dressed in an borate gown,cking hands and feet, resembling an unfinished doll.


    ��Hello, I am Gerard Wessminster, Hunter Number 307791,�� the white-haired man said. ��This is Selina Bright.��


    ��I am Sivirin Gwenn.�� Sivirin squatted down, looking at Selina: ��May I ask why a Blood Mad Hunter is bringing a minor for treatment? Or are you, Mr. Hunter, also moonlighting as a Guardian from the Nursery?��


    Selina spoke timidly, ��Hello, Senior Sister.��


    ��Hello, Selina,�� Sivirin said, gently patting Selina��s head, her eyes brimming with pitiful tenderness. ��Your name is as beautiful as mine.��


    Selina thought to herself, this woman is shameless.


    ��She is not a child from the Nursery.��


    ��Then whose child is she?��


    ��My child.��


    Sivirin turned to look at Gerard, stepped back to close the office door, then leaned against it, her forehead in her hand, her face full of confusion.


    ��(��_��) Wait, are you saying�� you used to be a woman?��


    Gerard stood up: ��May I request a different doctor?��

 Chapter 227: Guess the True Heart

    Chapter 227: Guess the True Heart


    ��The game is called ��Guess the True Heart.����


    ��Right now, you all have one Gold Coin and six Silver Coins in your hands. After the game is over, you don��t have to return them; use them to feed the spirits.��


    ��The rules of the game are as follows: First is the answering phase. Each person asks a yes-or-no question in turn, and everyone uses the Gold Coin to provide a truthful answer. The head side of the Gold Coin means ��yes,�� and the tail side means ��no.����


    ��Next is the guessing phase. Everyone must guess how many people answered ��yes�� and wager the corresponding number of Silver Coins. yers who guess correctly earn one point. The person with the most points at the end wins.��


    ��However, neither before nor after the game can anyone ask others for information, nor can they reveal what they themselves have answered.��


    ��It��s a simple game, isn��t it?�� Annan smiled. ��Anyone who scores higher than me will have their wish granted, whether it��s retrieving a Corpse from the Sewer or wanting to spend money in the game.��


    The game did sound straightforward at first, but Harvey quickly found a Loophole: ��But how can you ensure that everyone will give a truthful answer during the answering phase?��


    ��It��s simple,�� Annan said. ��Banjeet, Mr. Harvey, Mr. Bukin, and Ashe, you must give truthful answers in the uing game. It��s your turn, Ashe.��


    Ashe bowed his head and spoke to the little girl: ��Lise, you must answer honestly in the game. If you lie, then all your dolls will be handmade by Uncle Harvey.��


    Lise turned pale with fear: ��I will not lie!��


    Harvey looked at Ashe curiously: ��How do you know that I make dolls?��


    ��After all, making dolls sounds very much like a pervert��s hobby����


    ��Wait,�� Igor narrowed his eyes. ��We are bound by the Contract and naturally wouldn��t intentionally lie, but what about you, Miss?��


    ��Isn��t there a use in the Contract that binds me as well? As long as I recite the binding spell, then the words that follow will also be an oath that binds me. If I break the oath, our Contract will end. And the binding spell is����


    ��By the name of Dn,�� Annan lifted her head. ��I will uphold the virtue of honesty in the game toe.��


    ��No, that��s not right!�� Ashe suddenly became shrewd, ��There must be some spirits or Miracles that can detect the state of the Gold Coins, right? Maybe even directly read the thoughts in other people��s minds! Wouldn��t such cheating be undetectable?��


    Annan was very amenable: ��I swear I will not use any Sorcerer��s power during the game.��


    Then everyone turned their gaze to the Con Artist who ranked second on the Two Wings Mind Ranking, who had just brushed his teeth and still had the taste of lies in his mouth. He put his hands together as if wanting handcuffs, shrugged his shoulders, and said, ��It seems my promise won��t win your trust, but you really don��t respect me enough.��


    ��It��s precisely because we respect you that we must restrict your cheating methods,�� Ashe stated.


    ��That��s the utmost disrespect��You actually think I need to cheat to win against you in such a game,�� Igor raised his head, a mocking smile curving his lips, ��The rules are but the hem of the skirt lifted by the goddess of victory for me.��


    ��Why would she lift her skirt? Aunt Bukin, do you want to see the goddess of victory��s panties?�� Lise asked, puzzled.


    ��Lise, you don��t understand,�� said Ashe, ��It is said that Bewitchers, as well as men with Bewitcher Bloodline, like to lick����


    Before Annan could speak, Igor had already flipped the table and covered Ashe��s throat with his hand to prevent this zero-star trash from spouting lewd nonsense in front of the child.


    ��What are you doing����


    Annan seriously said to Lise, ��If you want to change your dad, I��d be happy to help.��


    ��I don��t want that!�� Lise went over and pulled Igor away, ��Aunt Bukin, stop bullying dad!��


    ��Really, I��m the most normal adult here, do you think I��d say something perverted? I��m not Harvey!�� Ashe struggled to pry Igor��s hand away, ��I just wanted to say that people with Bewitcher Bloodline like to lick legs, that��s all!��


    ��That��s already perverted, okay?!��


    After themotion, not only Igor, but everyone else was ordered not to use any Sorcerer methods. The six people sat around the coffee table on the sofa, with Banjeet thoughtfully bringing over drinks and a snack fruit te, giving off quite the party atmosphere.


    ��Do I get to y too?�� the Butler Youth asked.


    ��Of course, you��re part of the Firm as well,�� Annan replied cheerfully. ��This is the Funeral Firm��s first team-building activity since we expanded. If you beat me, I can also fulfill a request of yours.��


    ��You must be joking.��


    ��You know, I feel like this is a bit unfair,�� Annan suddenly said. ��If you guys win, I reward you, but if I win, shouldn��t you also reward me?��


    ��But we��re already at your beck and call,�� Igor scoffed. ��What could we possibly offer you that you couldn��t justmand us to do?��


    Harvey chimed in, ��Our Contract does allow us to refuse sexual advances, so we could actually say no to that.��


    ��Come on, don��t be so gloomy,�� Ashe interjected. ��Maybe the boss just wants us to show we care. And we do have gifts we could give. For instance, Lise, you��re a young girl, you could make a flower crown; Harvey, you��re a Necromancer, you could fashion a charm out of one of your ribs; Igor, as a Mind Sorcerer, you could�� carve out your own heart����


    Harvey looked puzzled, ��How did you know I��ve taken out my own rib to make a gift before? Although not to make a charm����


    Igor wanted to retort fiercely, but Harvey��sment caught him off guard��Ashe��s whimsical imagination couldn��t keep up with Harvey��s strong follow-through.


    ��It doesn��t need to be that serious,�� Annan said with a smile. ��How about this: If I win, I��ll still fulfill your wishes, but you��ll have to do something for me. Something that may not be work-rted, but I��d like us all to do together.��


    ��What is it?��


    ��We can talk about that after the game,�� Annan said, releasing the Scarlet Gold Dragon Lizard. ��I know you don��t trust me. Which is normal, who would trust a super beauty who enved them with tricks and plots?��


    Igor��s face showed disdain, while Ashe and Harvey had no reaction��their looks weren��t enough for them to dispute that statement.


    ��But I truly have no intention of enving you. In my eyes, you are all equal partners, and the profits from the Weaving Festival will be shared among us. We are colleagues striving together. The Funeral Firm is just a tform for you to advance further, and these 101 days will be a valuable experience in your life.��


    ��Let this game be the proof of my sincerity,�� Annan continued.


    ��Since it��s my game, I��ll start with the first question.��


    ��Do you wish to obtain the Divine Master��s Wish?��


    A ripple of emotion went through the group.


    ��Hide a Gold Coin in your hand and then ce it in this handkerchief.�� Annan slid his hand inside the handkerchief on the coffee table, depositing the Gold Coin from his palm: ��It��s your turn now.��


    They looked at each other, but had no choice��bound by the Contract, they werepelled to answer truthfully, unable to deceive.


    ��Now for the guessing part,�� Annan said. ��I think everyone answered ��yes,�� so I��ll wager six Silver Coins.��


    Everyone, including the loyal Butler Banjeet, also ced six Silver Coins. When the handkerchief was lifted, there were indeed six Gold Coins facing up, indicating everyone��s affirmative answer.


    ��What wish would you make after receiving the Divine Master��s Wish, Banjeet?�� Annan asked curiously.


    ��I haven��t decided yet,�� Banjeet shrugged. ��Probably something like ��please fulfill Annan��s wish��?��


    ��I don��t believe that. You must have your own desires,�� Annan said, turning to the others. ��It��s natural, everyone has desires. I do, Banjeet does, and so do you. As long as you can breathe, you definitely covet the Boon of the Divine Master that can fulfill any wish.��


    ��I might be selfish, but I��m not so selfish as to believe others are without self-interest.��

 Chapter 228: The Game of Uncovering Inner Darkness

    Chapter 228: The Game of Uncovering Inner Darkness


    So, this was a chance to show off, huh? Igor understood that Annan��s words were almost a direct deration: ��I know you all want to fight for it, but regardless of your ns, I will be the final winner.��


    Compared to empty threats, this confidence, as if everything was under her control, was much more intimidating.


    ��But this way, everyone guessed right, and the scores are all the same. There��s no fun in that,�� Annan pondered for a moment. ��And if everyone asks their own questions, there might be some special questions they��re too embarrassed to ask�� I��ve got it!��


    She pulled out a stack of note pads from a nearby drawer. ��These are ��Thought-Writing Notes.�� They can automatically write down what��s on a person��s mind, and in standard size 4 font. This means it��s impossible to identify who wrote it by the handwriting, effectively making it anonymous.��


    She then took out a ck box. ��Each person writes a question, then throws it into this box. We��ll draw three questions to ask, so no one knows who asked what. With all these safeguards in ce, you can ask whatever you��re curious about without reservations, right?��


    Seeing suchplete tools, Igor knew Annan had definitely prepared in advance. She was probably waiting for them to explode and make demands, then seizing the opportunity to propose this game�� But why this game?


    What goal could Annan achieve with this game?


    When Igor received the note paper, he suddenly realized the interesting aspect of this game.


    It was known that everyone had to answer honestly now.


    And the questions were random; no one knew who the questioner was.


    In other words, Igor could easily ask, ��Are you nning to murder Igor, Ashe, Archibald, and Lise?�� to find out whether Annan had ns to eliminate all of them after the Weaving Festival. And he was just one among them, so he wouldn��t be targeted by Annan because of it!


    No�� It would be a waste to use such a good opportunity just to inquire about Annan. After all, everyone else also had to answer honestly. He could definitelye up with a brilliant question to get everyone��s true thoughts-


    Igor was stunned.


    He finally understood Annan��s scheme.


    It was a shameless yet brilliant ploy, but even Igor, who realized its cleverness, had no choice but to dive in.


    No wonder the game was called ��True Heart Guess.�� The real emphasis wasn��t on ��true heart�� but on ��guess��!


    When you try to uncover the darkness of human nature, you will always get the answer you want. Human nature cannot withstand scrutiny; true hearts cannot be guessed!


    ��Banjeet, do you have a small mirror?�� Lise suddenly asked. ��I want to see if Aunt Bukin has braided my hair nicely.��


    ��Of course, Miss Lise.�� Banjeet casually produced a small mirror, though no one knew where he got it from.


    Snap.


    Once everyone had submitted their note papers, Annan pped her hands lightly. ��Since all the questions are collected�� Mr. Bukin, please host the next Q&A and guessing sessions. After all, since I provided the box and the note papers, if I were to host, you might suspect I had set up some tricks.��


    Igor couldn��t refuse such a reasonable request. He drew a piece of paper from the ck box, and his pupils slightly widened.


    ��Question.��


    ��If given the chance, would you murder the other five people here to obtain the Divine Sovereign��s wish?��


    ��Oh my,�� Annan chuckled, ��what an exciting question.��


    Everyone ced their gold coins under a handkerchief, then moved into the guessing phase. Annan spoke first. ��I think the number of people who answered ��yes�� is zero.��


    ��I have a different opinion.�� Harvey ced a silver coin. ��I think it��s one.��


    ��I��m also going with one,�� Igor followed.


    Ashe spread his hands. ��Unlike you guys, I choose zero.��


    Banjeet also chose zero, while only Lise ced two silver coins. Everyone was slightly taken aback but quickly understood��perhaps in Lise��s eyes, both Annan and Banjeet were the bad people controlling her, so she naturally thought both of them would murder others.


    But that was impossible; at least Banjeet wouldn��t do such a thing��because the option ��murder the other five people�� included murdering Annan.


    Although Ashe and the others didn��t know how long Banjeet had lived with Annan, Banjeet was over sixty years old. To him, Annan was practically like a daughter. Given that he had no descendants, how could he possibly murder Annan, his only family in reality?


    But the reverse was different. If Annan was driven by enough greed, she might be willing to murder Banjeet for her desires.


    This was why Igor chose to bet on one person. The most likely individual to answer ��yes�� in the group was Annan.


    However, when the handkerchief was lifted, everyone was stunned.


    Four ��no�� and two ��yes.��


    Out of the six of them, two people were willing to murder the others without hesitation for the Divine Sovereign��s wish!


    Igor looked around. First, he knew he was a ��no.�� Lise was undoubtedly a ��no,�� and Banjeet was most likely a ��no.��


    This meant the people who answered ��yes�� could only be among Annan, Ashe, and Harvey!


    Even if Annan upied one slot, either Ashe or Harvey had to be the butcher ready to kill!


    Harvey was an obvious suspect. After he escaped from Shattered Lake Prison, he was already on a path to destruction. Igor felt his flight was merely a way to choose the most tragic death for himself. As for Ashe, although Igor believed he couldn��t be that kind of person, whether it was Ashe��s subtle sympathy for Lise or his past actions, all proved he hadn��t lost his humanity.


    But what if it was all an act?


    And even if everything before was genuine, could it prove he had no darkness in his heart at this moment?


    He could showpassion to a little girl, get angry over Ronald��s situation, and attack Eternal Presence to avoid harming himself�� but he could also harbor murderous intentions for the Divine Sovereign��s wish.


    The third rule of the Con Artist: Everything in this world has a price for betrayal. If the price is high enough, even the sun could betray the light.


    Facing the enormous, incalcble benefits of the Divine Sovereign��s wish, any decision Ashe made would be understandable. Even if he truly was kind-hearted, it wouldn��t stop him from being asionally cruel.


    Moreover, Annan might not be the other ��yes.�� Compared to these former death row inmates, Annan was once aw-abiding worker in a grey area, which was evident from her ability to make the list��illegal actions significantly reduce one��s chances of being listed.


    Annan probably hadn��t harmed many people. Could someone like her, whose hands were rtively clean, really bring herself to murder Banjeet, who had followed her for years, and the innocent little girl, Lise?


    Ashe and Harvey��was it a choice between one of them, or both?


    On the other side, Ashe had simr thoughts.


    If only one ��yes�� coulde from Banjeet and Annan, and he and Lise were both ��no,�� then it meant one ��yes�� was among Igor and Harvey.


    One of them was a ruthless murderer willing to kill everyone for the Divine Sovereign��s wish.


    When Ashe looked up, he found Igor staring at him.


    This was the terror of True Heart Guess.


    You guess others�� true hearts, and they guess your thoughts too. When the seeds of suspicion fall into the darkest ces, they will sprout in the next quarrel, grow strong in the next conflict, and eventually, the tree will be ignited by the mes of anger, turning the darkness of the mind into the color of blood.


    ��Trouble,�� Ashe sighed. ��Lise, I didn��t expect there to be two bad people here����


    He pretended to talk to Lise to avoid Igor��s gaze, but Lise looked at him coldly,cking the affection she had shown earlier.


    She looked at him as if he were a weed, her eyes devoid of any innocence, even showing a hint of cold cruelty.


    Ashe was taken aback, thinking she had entered her rebellious phase so quickly.


    ��Only Lise guessed correctly. Lise gets 1 point; everyone else remains at 0,�� Annan said, seemingly unconcerned about the previous question. ��Next question.��


    Even though the sun was shining brightly outside, the atmosphere in the living room had be somewhat oppressive. Igor sighed inwardly. The first question had already nted the seeds of suspicion in everyone��s hearts. He couldn��t imagine what the second question would bring.


    He drew the second piece of paper from the ck box, raised an eyebrow, and then immediately lunged at Ashe, wrestling him to the ground.


    ��Ashe!��


    ��How do you know it was me who wrote it!?��


    ��Who else would be this childish?��


    Harvey picked up the paper Igor had dropped and couldn��t help but burst intoughter:


    ��Haha, the question.��


    ��Do you think Igor should wear pretty girls�� clothes?��

 Chapter 229: Its Not Necessarily Me!

    Chapter 229: Its Not Necessarily Me!


    As everyone guessed that only Igor would choose ��no,�� even Igor himself wagered on five people during the guessing round. Everyone guessed correctly, so the question was immediately invalidated.


    ��You all���� Igor gritted his teeth.


    Harvey spread his hands: ��Can��t help it, Igor. I��m bound by the Contract and can only answer truthfully. I don��t want to fail you, but my conscience won��t allow it. Even in my view, only a slim figure in a short skirt and the solemn dignity of ck stockings can match up to your Corpse.��


    ��Annan, I think someone is lying!�� Ashe raised his hand and said: ��How could anyone choose ��no��? Even Igor himself couldn��t possibly choose ��no��. He must be cheating!��


    ��How do you know it was Igor who chose ��no��?�� Annan shook his head: ��Don��t go seeking the truth now.��


    Lise frowned tightly at the six coins on the table.


    The session was still hosted by Igor. He drew a slip of paper from the ck box, showing obvious surprise on his face.


    ��Your question.��


    ��Would you give everything for the one you love?��


    Ashe abruptly raised his hand: ��Objection!��


    ��You didn��t object to the previous question, what are you objecting to now?�� Igor cursed.


    ��Because the ones I love are not in this world, the question is too hypothetical for me. I don��t even know my own heart,�� Ashe said, clearly very proud of his single status: ��How about a question that��s a bit more single-friendly?��


    Suddenly Annan said: ��Just because your loved ones are not in this world doesn��t mean you don��t have loved ones.��


    ��But if they��re not here, how can I give anything?��


    ��Then why not make them exist?�� Annan smiled: ��Those who are gone, bring them back to life; those who left, bring them to your side. If they don��t exist, then let them exist. The Divine Master��s Wish can fulfill all your thoughts.��


    Ashe was taken aback, a bizarre idea suddenly dawning on him: ��Suppose I fell in love with a virtual character in a video game, and I wish she could appear in reality and be with me����


    Annan shrugged. ��I think your wish is far easier to fulfill than raising the dead.��


    Ashe blinked, having never considered using a wish in such a manner. Summoning a Swordswoman or a Witch to start a shameless, fantastical journey together? Engaging in adventurous escapades thrice in the morning and four times at night?


    However, this thought vanished as quickly as it appeared in Ashe��s mind. Using a wish to find a wife felt too embarrassing, and if he ever dared to do such a thing, the Swordswoman��s first deed upon arrival might be to chop him into a situation where only the Retrograde Day spirit could save him��wasting a Divine Master��s Wish on finding a woman? Even for me, that��s too extravagant! I��ve never seen such a foolish Small horn!


    But Annan��s words did remind Ashe of something.


    The people he loved in his past life were naturally not present.


    But did he truly have no loved ones in this world��?


    As the guessing round began, Ashe pondered and first concluded that Banjeet and Annan, being somewhat normal individuals from a civilized society, would at least produce one ��yes.��


    Then, considering Harvey��s escape from prison and his vendetta against Fernand Snow stemmed from the death of his lover, he would likely choose ��yes.��


    As for Igor, it wasn��t that Ashe was projecting the mindset of a victim onto a Con Artist; rather, the idea that ��Igor would give up everything for someone else�� was as unimaginable as Freya practicing abstinence.


    And Lise, at her age, was in the ��what��s mine is mine�� phase. There might be sweethearts in the world, but recalling Lise��s divisive behavior the night before, she was at best a ck-hearted cotton.


    Thus, Ashe bet 2 Silver Coins on Igor and Harvey each, Banjeet ced 3 coins, and, most shockingly, Annan and Lise: they bet 4 coins!


    Ashe wondered if they had given up��how could there possibly be so many romantically selfless individuals among the six of us?


    But when the handkerchief was lifted, Ashe was stunned.


    4 ��yes�� and 2 ��no��!


    Without a doubt, Ashe had chosen ��no,�� which meant that aside from him, the self-pitying singleton, there were four hopelessly romantic, kind-hearted individuals among the remaining five!?


    ��An interesting number,�� Igor raised an eyebrow. ��In the first question, exactly two selfish individuals from the evil alignment emerged; in this one, four selfless individuals from the good alignment appeared, which is precisely the total number of us.��


    ��Could it be that the ones who chose ��no�� this time are the same as the potential traitors who chose ��yes�� before?��


    ��You��re not allowed to inquire about others�� answers,�� Annan reminded. ��Guessing is what makes this game interesting.��


    If Ashe hadn��t chosen ��no�� himself, he might have agreed with Igor��s spection. But he is just an ordinary Human who is neither willing to give everything for his loved ones nor to do whatever it takes for a Divine Master��s Wish!


    Do all you Sorcerers have some serious sickness? To love so recklessly, to hate so fiercely, as if all of you are mad beauties?


    ��Daddy, you would give up everything for me, right?��


    Lise cooed while shaking Ashe��s arm, making him think how this girl had just been so cold, and now she was clinging again. Human children really are iprehensible creatures. He answered perfunctorily, ��Of course�� of course not.��


    ��Daddy, you won��t even indulge a child. I feel sad for my future mom.��


    ��Let��s not assume you will have a mom in the future. Are there really no girls in this world who don��t need pampering?��


    ��Dad, you look so cool with that confidence!��


    ��Ah? Hahaha, indeed, you have good taste.��


    ��You see, even a big man like you needs coddling, and you have the nerve to ask if others need it?��


    ��The final question.�� Igor pulled out a slip of paper from the ck box and said calmly, ��If there were no Contract restrictions, could you sincerely cooperate with the other five?��


    What a meaningless question, thought the Con Artist.


    Without the Restriction of a Contract, who would dare to sincerely cooperate with others? Not to mention that several of them are foreign Prison Escapees; it��s not just that others can��t trust them, but there is also a deep-seated mistrust among themselves. And both Annan and Banjeet are veteran kidnappers. There��s hardly a singlewful individual among the six; when theye together, it��s like a trash can meeting a dung bin��even if they��re not exactly in cahoots, they��re at least worthy adversaries.


    They could work together, but they must always be prepared for betrayal, keeping a close watch on their allies�� actions. If everything goes smoothly, fine, but at the slightest sign of trouble, they must be ready to betray before being betrayed.


    Igor had five partners in the past; two died in the gutters, and three were locked up in Feimeng City��s Blood Moon Prison. If it weren��t for Igor��s knack for disguises and sacrificing them early to divert attention, he would have been implicated long ago.


    An important reason why Igor had to leave for Kaimon City to expand his market was that there were too many acquaintances of his in Feimeng City��s Prison. Those three former partners were probably rubbing their hands together, eagerly awaiting his incarceration. Thus, Igor decided to strike out on his own in Kaimon City, where even if captured, he could start anew in Prison��without partners to sacrifice, he was indeed clumsily caught.


    Annan and Banjeet couldn��t possibly trust them, and they couldn��t trust each other, so everyone would choose ��no���� No, that��s not right, there��s the unpredictable factor of Lise.


    But in Igor��s view, Lise was clearly a very sensible little girl, and ��sensible�� here is the antonym of ��naive��.


    The answer session ended, and it was time for everyone to enter the betting phase.


    ��Zero,�� Igor dered sinctly.


    Harvey, Annan, and Banjeet also bet zero. Just when Igor thought this question would be invalidated too, Lise pulled out a Silver Coin��


    She bet one.


    Everyone looked at her, and the little girl proudly raised her head, showing off a smile brighter than the sunshine.


    Even if it might be an attempt to curry favor, even Igor was moved by the little girl��s innocence.


    Lise��s bet of one had only one possibility��she answered ��yes��. With her cunning, she must have guessed that everyone else would answer ��no,�� so the only person who answered ��yes�� was her alone.


    As a lonely girl with amnesia, she still managed to trust others. That kind of sincere honesty, devoid of any deceit, felt somewhat blinding to the hearts of Con Artists, so calloused they could grow mushrooms.


    It seemed the others shared a simr sentiment with Igor; the Necromancer voluntarily stubbed out his Catnip Cigarette, the Purple Moth��s eyes brightened, and the Butler Youth��s gaze softened.


    As for Ashe��


    He bet two Silver Coins.


    Everyone was stunned.


    Then, they checked under the handkerchief and saw four ��no��s�� and two ��yes��s.��


    Now, everyone stared at Ashe, Lise included.


    Feeling somewhat embarrassed under their gaze, Ashe protested, ��What? It��s not necessarily me who voted ��yes��!��

 Chapter 230: Igors Solo Kill

    Chapter 230: Igors Solo Kill


    Without a doubt, the two who chose ��yes�� were none other than Lise and Ashe.


    That��s why everyone was so shocked��after all, it was one thing for Lise to be naive; she was still young. But Ashe, how old are you to still be so innocent?


    Annan and Banjeet were somewhat resigned, as they didn��t quite understand the past of Ashe and the others, but Igor and Harvey felt the strongest about it��Ashe knew their histories all too well.


    One was a Necromancer who yed with corpses, the other a Con Artist harvesting a stupidity tax by selling wishes. Without any Contractual Restrictions, Ashe was really willing to cooperate sincerely with them?


    No wonder Eternal Cmity refused to acknowledge you as a peer. If the Four Pirs Cult had someone like you, they might have been uprooted by the Divine Master�� Oh wait, they already have been uprooted.


    The Four Pirs Cult really shot themselves in the foot by taking in a talent like you.


    In the look Igor gave Ashe, there was both scorn and admiration, mixed with emotions that were hard to define. Harvey nced at Ashe, then closed his eyes, puffing on a Catnip Cigarette, deep in thought.


    ����The three questions have ended. Lise has 2 points, Ashe and I have 1 each,�� Annan announced, pping her hands. ��This means that aside from Lise, who can have her wish granted for free, the rest of us need to work to earn our reward.��


    ��If it weren��t for Ashe��s surprising answer, Lise would have had all of them right,�� Igormented, his tone intriguing.


    ��Kids always have better luck than adults. It��s only natural that a cute little girl like Lise has better luck than us.��


    At first nce, there seemed nothing amiss with the statement.


    But it was Harvey who spoke.


    Ashe, bound by a Contract to protect his daughter, immediately hugged Lise close, while Annan and Banjeet watched the Necromancer warily, even Igor kept his distance.


    Harvey sighed with a hint of resignation, ��My praise isn��t the same as coveting, and besides, my hunting range for Humans is from 18 to 88 years old. Lise doesn��t qualify yet.��


    ��88 years old!?�� The others took a step further away from him.


    ��You don��t understand the exquisite beauty that decay exudes, the somber charm of death�� Time rusts every cog, and the noise of aging ys the march of death. The elderly are like thest Curtain between us and death, and I need only to reach out gently to lift the veil of the Grim Reaper�� To forever capture the vibrant youth in a single moment is certainly a stunning form of beauty, but to eternally imprison death within an old body is an art worth savoring in detail.��


    Before, everyone felt that Harvey smoking wasn��t great since Catnip could have significant effects on both lifespan and sanity. But now, they thought��just keep smoking.


    ��I��ll fulfill my promise now. Banjeet, please prepare a gift for Lise.�� Annan looked towards Igor and the others: ��So, are you willing to obtain yourpensation bypleting my tasks?��


    ��As long as it doesn��t damage our credit,�� Igor said indifferently. ��There��s no harm in it.��


    ��If not personally acting doesn��t harm one��s credit, then I can ept tasks that are a bitrger in scale,�� Harvey said. ��After all, work is often rare Entertainment for me.��


    ��In that case, can I delegate my work to Harvey?�� Ashe raised his hand and said. ��As the saying goes, the capable shouldbor more����


    ��After youplete the work, I will fulfill your requests.�� Annan took a pink Bracelet from the box Banjeet handed over and gave it to Lise: ��Waterproof and temperature resistant, it binds upon wearing, unusable by others, and can directly connect to the Curtain. There��s already a bnce of 10,000 copper coins in the ount. Although the speech function is restricted, Lise can still use it for shopping. Hmm, it can also be used to open the Gospel.��


    Watching Lise happily wear the Bracelet, Igor touched his own ring and asked thoughtfully: ��Our rings�� have most of their functions been castrated?��


    Their rings could only be used to open the Gospel; other features, like connecting to the Curtain or shopping, werepletely absent.


    ��I haven��t treated you unfairly; your rings are expensive luxuries,�� Annan nced at him. ��This should be the same in every Kingdom; the more expensive the luxury, the more singr its function. Conversely, the cheap items used by ordinary people tend to be very versatile.��


    ��Indeed, only the Wealthy would buy sports cars that can��t handle most road conditions, while themon person��s car is fuel-efficient, durable, spacious, and has strong impact resistance,�� Igor nodded. ��Giving us, who live in the mire, such pointless sports cars is truly a despicable shackle.��


    ��I prefer to think of it as employee benefits,�� Annan said with a sly smile. ��Now, if you��ll excuse me, I wish you all a pleasant life.��


    Once Annan left, Ashe immediately wrapped his arm around Lise��s neck. ��Lise, you don��t need that much money to buy clothes. How about you give it to me first? I��ll save it for you, and when you get married, I��ll give it back����


    Lise didn��t reject the dirty adult��s proposal, tilting her head she said, ��But daddy, you don��t even have an ount right now, how can I transfer it to you?��


    ��Right.�� Ashe looked a bit dejected but quickly perked up. ��Then would Lise be willing to buy a gift for daddy?��


    ��Of course,�� Lise said under Ashe��s expectant gaze. ��As long as daddy finds mommy, I will give a gift!��


    ��Hmph, if you don��t want to, just say so.��


    Ashe waved to the departing Necromancer: ��Harvey, give me a box of Catnip.��


    Igor immediately asked, ��You also think life��s too long?��


    ��No, I just happen to have some free time recently, and I want to test the Substitute��s resistance to poison. Also, doesn��t mastery of the spirit increase with use? I feel that using the Substitute for chores has almost stopped improving my proficiency, so I need to research deeper into the uses of the Substitute����


    Poisoning a Substitute to increase control over a spirit?


    Is this some kind of unconventional training method from the Four Pirs Cult?


    Igor shook his head nonchntly and followed Lise, who was about to enter the library.


    Lise, noticing the Con Artist trailing behind, immediately became alert and guarded her Bracelet, ��The Bracelet is already bound, so it��s useless if you try to take it. And I��ll call Daddy toe beat you up!��


    ��If you don��t mind, I wouldn��t object to you calling Ashe over.��


    Igor pushed Lise into the library and then closed the door, like an evil queen plotting against a little Princess.


    ��Lise, it��s time to settle ounts.��


    Seeing this, Lise immediately backed away in fear, hiding behind a desk, tremblingly she said, ��I-I��m sorry, I won��t call you Aunt Bukin anymore����


    ��Hmm, that is indeed a big problem, but that��s not what I��m here to talk to you about today.��


    ��I��m not even here for you.��


    Igor crouched down to be face-to-face with Lise.


    ��The one I��m looking for is the other person hiding inside you.��

 Chapter 231: The Mirror

    Chapter 231: The Mirror


    ��Others?�� Lise blinked, looking around suspiciously. ��But it��s only us here����


    ��Although I don��t find it something to boast about, I am the second ce holder in the ��Two Wings Mind Ranking Azura Sub-Ranking��.��


    ��My nose smells emotions, my eyes see thoughts, my ears hear desires.��


    Igor walked over to the phonograph, picked out a record from the cab below that looked like it depicted the end of the world��a memory of a dream he had a few days ago��ced it into the machine and yed it. As expected, it was very noisy, but surprisingly quite pleasant.


    He took a serious look at the cover, oh, it turned out to be an Angel destroying the world, no wonder it sounded so good.


    ��Though this music might be before your time, it��s enough to mask our voices,�� Igor said as he sat down. ��Let��s have an honest conversation, Lise.��


    Lise sat down nervously at the spot farthest from him, close to the mirror, ��But I don��t want to talk to you����


    ��Is it the mirror?��


    The little girl blinked, and the expression on her face was no longer the deliberately feigned tension, but genuine astonishment. The Con Artist was very pleased with this reaction��since that damned Cult Leader, he hadn��t had a sessful swindle, and Igor was beginning to doubt his eloquence had dropped to the level of a drunken councilor.��I��ve been watching you, Lise. Not just during the game just now, butst night, when you yed ��Sorcerer Duel 14�� with Ashe, you showed a different side of yourself:petitive, impolite, direct, almost childlike����


    ��I am a child!�� Lise protested loudly.


    ��Ifst night I had some doubts, then during the game just now, youpletely revealed your secret.�� Igor stepped closer, positioning himself to be in the mirror with Lise. ��Your ��switching�� medium is the mirror. Every time you look into it, it means that something inside may have already changed.��


    ��A clever bondage, very clever indeed. Others might think of it as a weakness, but I have seen patients tormented by multiple personalities to the point of wishing for death or craving life��with no doubt, those with multiple personalities are valuable research subjects for Mind Sorcerers. And fortunately, mental illness is practically a specialty product of the Blood Moon Kingdom. Mind Sorcerers have a locational advantage there.��


    ��Workers in the entertainment industry, Sin Hunters, Psychotherapists��these professions continuously produce the psychological samples I favor��especially Psychotherapists. Those peers who stare into the Abyss for too long will inevitably go mad, eventually finding themselves metaphorically ��dropping their trousers�� for the Abyss.��


    ��Those with multiple personalities are severely affected in their lives due to different personas taking over the body, entangling and tormenting each other because they cannot break free. In the end, they either be Sugar Addicts, living a life of oblivion, or they are reborn, washing away all emotional memories to be a nk te.��


    ��But you won��t have this worry. The mirror, this bondage, minimizes the impact of multiple personalities. Even if other personas cause trouble, you can keep them ��in the mirror��, at least they won��t affect reality����


    ��My sisters are not locked in the mirror!�� Lise said angrily.


    ��Do the personalities refer to each other as sisters?�� Igor asked with interest. ��A verymon example, but in the cases I��ve seen, there��s a high probability that female patients will develop male personas, or rather, male personas based on a woman��s impression of men. Simrly, male patients almost always develop female personas��the longing for and closeness to the opposite sex seems to be an instinct etched into our biology. Do you have any brothers?��


    Lise seemed about to say something more but stopped as if she heard something, reluctantly looking toward the mirror.


    When she turned her gaze back, her cute visage was oveid with a calmness that did not match her appearance. It was less like she was tearing off a Mask and more like she was putting on another one, a mask beneath a mask.


    Igor raised an eyebrow. ��How should I address you?��


    ��Just call me Lise,�� ��Lise�� said calmly. ��It��s only among ourselves that we��re different. When facing others, we are all Lise.��


    Igor thought to himself that this was a very rare case of multiple personalities acting in unison, making collective decisions. Generally, multiple personalities differ greatly, with dominant personalities often looking down upon the weaker ones. Therefore, the stable organization of multiple personalities usually takes the form of a ��monarchical dictatorship,�� where the monarch personality leads the other subject personalities, which are further divided into noble andmoner personalities, each with a clear hierarchy. This is akin to creating a feudal society within the confines of a snail shell, establishing feudalism within a single human body.


    Lise��s type of multiple personalities, which mutually respect each other in a ��democratic republic�� manner, is practically the ideal temte for multiple personalities. Even after Igor had perused the psychological patient database, he had not seen such a perfect specimen. Moreover, the fact that she had voluntarily added the mirror bondage made him vaguely specte.


    ��Lise, in the first question earlier, ��Would you murder the other five present here to obtain the Divine Master��s Wish,�� you voted ��yes,�� didn��t you?�� Igor asked, his tone quite certain.


    ��Lise�� admitted frankly: ��Yes, that��s right. How did you figure it out?��


    ��I noticed it when Ashe interacted with you,�� Igor said coolly. ��The way you looked at Ashe was like looking at a piece of wriggling rotten flesh. I��m quite familiar with that look��it��s the same way Harvey looks at others.��


    ��I apologize, in order to control the voting oue, we had to let a more aggressive sister cast the vote,�� ��Lise�� nodded slightly. ��That sister has that attitude towards everyone; we had no intention of harming Ashe.��


    ��For the second and third votes, you cast votes that didn��t fit your persona, right?�� Igor continued. ��I originally thought you wouldn��t sacrifice everything for a loved one, yet you voted ��yes��; I thought you couldn��t possibly trust others, yet you still voted ��yes���� Why did you want to control the voting results?��


    ��Mr. Bukin, if you already know the answer, why bother asking?�� ��Lise�� said, shaking her Bracelet. ��Firstly, naturally for the reward; secondly, to turn the tables and go along with Annan��s arrangement.��


    ��Annan���� Igor savored this name as if tasting a barely ripe L Fatty.


    ��A very beautiful open conspiracy, isn��t it?�� ��Lise�� said, spreading her hands. ��She restricted our ability to lie and granted us the right to ask questions anonymously�� It��s as if she has locked us in an arena and thrown down swords. She doesn��t need to use verbal enticement because we will voluntarily pick up weapons and harm each other.��


    ��She wants to undermine the foundation of our cooperation, and coincidentally, I have the same intention.��


    ��Lise�� ced her hands on the table and sat upright with no small movements, a serious demeanor that prevented Igor from taking her lightly: ��Compared to the hardships you have shared, my rtionship with Ashe is much too weak. But Ashe is the ally I��m most likely to draw to my side. If I can��t even bring Ashe over, it��s even less likely that others will cooperate with me.��


    ��That��s why I need to tear apart the foundation of your trust first, and only then can I form a true alliance with Ashe. A mere contract is not enough to make Ashe stand with me�� On this point, my interests align with Annan��s.��


    ��So you helped Annan ��touch fish�� in muddy waters, deepening our suspicions through your votes?�� Igor sighed. ��You almost seeded. The two ��yes�� answers to the first question nearly destroyed all my trust in Harvey and Ashe.��


    ��Yes, I was close to seeding,�� ��Lise�� admitted, somewhat reluctantly. ��If it weren��t for the third question.��


    Igor was puzzled: ��But in the third question, why did you choose ��yes���� Ah, you wanted to take the opportunity to improve your standing in the others�� eyes!��

 Chapter 232: I Want You and Ashe

    Chapter 232: I Want You and Ashe


    Lise, who could freely change her answers, couldpletely alter others�� perceptions of her through this ��Honesty Game��.


    In thest question, Lise wagered a Silver Coin, tantly stating her choice of ��yes��, which was almost equivalent to a battle cry effect����I, Lise, am just a naive and adorable girl who easily trusts others, greatly increasing everyone��s fondness for me��.


    Indeed, she had seeded, as seeing her willingness to cooperate sincerely with others without any Contract Restrictions, even with those like Igor who had the worst impression of her, naturally fostered a sense of goodwill.


    But her sess was limited.


    Because Ashe had also chosen ��yes��.


    If one were to say that a hundred units of fondness emerged in everyone��s hearts at that moment, then only ten of those were directed at Lise, with the remaining ny going to Ashe.


    After all, it was far too normal for Lise, the little girl, to be naive and adorable. But Ashe being the same was both amusing and surprisingly thrilling. It��s like a student who normally scores 80 out of 100 getting a 90 is praiseworthy, but another who typically scores 60 and then scores 90 is even moremendable��it may not be a prodigal��s return, but it��s akin toying down the butcher��s knife to be a Buddha on the spot.


    In some sense, in the art of being endearing, Lise lost to Ashe.


    And because of Ashe, the schemes of Lise and Annan had utterly failed��perhaps Igor, Harvey, and Lise could still not trust each other, but they could always trust Ashe.But Lise and Annan couldn��t be med for this oue. Who could have predicted that this man, who mingled with Con Artists and Necromancers, would turn out to be a lotus in the mud?


    ��Since you��ve discovered that I have multiple personalities, have you noticed anything about Ashe��?��


    ��No, he has always had the character of a Nursery��s toddler ss.�� Igor was somewhat frustrated: ��Though unexpected, on reflection, it makes perfect sense. Someone like him is truly unique in the Blood Moon Kingdom. Please don��t misunderstand, Harvey and I are the norm in the Blood Moon Kingdom.��


    ��Lise�� could only chalk it up to bad luck. She suddenly asked, ��Mr. Bukin, I have a question for you��regarding the question about whether you would cross-dress, I actually chose ��no�� and bet five Silver Coins nning to get it wrong along with everyone else. Always getting the right answer would be too conspicuous.��


    It was a peculiar way of phrasing it; she said she had a question, but she stated a fact instead.


    However, Igor understood what she meant��why had Lise chosen ��no,�� yet there were still five ��yes�� answers on the table?


    There was only one possibility: apart from Lise, the other five people had also chosen ��yes,�� including Igor himself!


    But if Igor had chosen ��yes,�� why had he bet on five people, not six? After all, in his view, he was the only one who might choose ��no,�� while the rest were certain to choose ��yes.�� Now that he had chosen ��yes�� too, it should have been a unanimous decision.


    ��Just like you bet one Silver Coin on thest question to signify your stance,�� Igor said somberly, ��I didn��t want to bet six and reveal mine.��


    Indeed, Igor was gambling.


    While it was possible that everyone would choose ��yes,�� if there was a single ��no,�� everyone would naturally assume it was Igor��s answer.


    Betting on six would likely earn a point, but it would also signify that he had chosen ��yes,�� which a Con Artist could not afford��a self-revtion he was not willing to make. He was certain that Ashe would bring it up every day as a joke until his Soul fell into the sixth circle of hell.


    So, Igor preferred to take a chance, and it paid off. Otherwise, Ashe would probably be pestering Lise to buy him a nice outfit at this very moment.


    Lise sighed��they had calcted all the possibilities, yet these men��s unpredictable actions had thrown them off.


    Intending to deliberately answer incorrectly, she ended up being right; she wanted to curry favor intentionally, but couldn��t outdo another man.


    Men really areplex creatures.


    ��So, Mr. Bukin����


    Lise nced at the mirror, giving Igor a sidelong look: ��You chose tomunicate with me privately instead of exposing my true identity in front of everyone. That means you want to use this secret to threaten me����


    ��What are your intentions towards a poor, lonely girl with nothing to her name?��


    ��You��re not without anything,�� Igor shook his head. ��There��s still onemodity you hold.��


    ��Me?��


    ��Yes, you�� and Ashe.��


    ��Isn��t that twomodities, Mr. Bukin? Your math doesn��t seem very good,�� the Secret Princess Deya retorted from the mirror.


    In the Blood Moon Kingdom, at the Affiliated Hospital of Kaimon College.


    ��It��s strange�� really strange����


    After a cursory examination of Selina, Sivirin wore a puzzled expression, as if she had seen a sausage wearing a skirt.


    ��What is it?�� Gerard asked from nearby.


    ��Selina has no limb nerves.��


    ��What?��


    ��If she had lost her limbs in an ident, the nerve nodes for her limbs should still be there. It��s like the lines being cut, but the lines themselves still exist; they just can��t be used. But Selina���� Sivirin��s hand gently swept over the doll-like girl��s body: ��She has no such lines at all, as if she was born without that function.��


    ��So�� do I need to find a new doctor?��


    ��Of course not. Don��t underestimate modern biological prosthesis engineering. We can transnt human brains into steel automatons, install spinal columns into buildings, and even enable virtual characters to have children. This is a trivial matter byparison.�� Sivirin said. ��However, this goes beyond the coverage of residential medical insurance; it has to be paid out of pocket.��


    ��I am a Captain of the hunters; I��ve saved quite a bit����


    Sivirin quoted a figure that left the White-haired Hunter speechless.


    Gerard grimaced: ��Considering we��re both from the Grand Research Institutes, is there any discount?��


    ��Do you ever see an axe spare its fellow trees just because its handle is made of wood?�� Sivirin shrugged. ��I don��t set the prices. This is biotechnology that the institute has yet to unban; you know the cost.��


    ��But cutting nearly 80 years of my sry is outrageous! Is this a robbery?��


    ��Going to a doctor not from one of the Grand Research Institutes, you��d have to fork out for at least 100 years,�� Sivirin said calmly. ��Robberies aren��t this quick. Plus, the institute has a monopoly. If we don��t set the prices high, how can we promote high-level consumption? The price bothers you and me both.��


    Gerard clicked his tongue and nced at Selina in her wheelchair. The doll-like girl blinked and said softly, ��I��m hungry, Uncle Gerard, can we go home?��


    The White-haired Hunter scratched his head and let out a heavy sigh, ��Should we proceed with hospital admission now?��


    ��There��s a special channel for self-paying customers,�� Sivirin said leisurely. ��I can arrange a deluxe medical suite for you, free of charge.��


    ��How long will it take?��


    ��At least a month to observe vital signs and tailor a suitable prosthesis n,�� Sivirin exined. ��Apart from being expensive, there��s nothingcking in the institute��s medical services. And being expensive isn��t a w.��


    ��I don��t have time toe look after her,�� Gerard said, looking at the doll-like girl, ��I have to work overtime chasing a runaway werewolf.��


    ��Neither do I,�� Sivirin admitted frankly. ��But the hospital has nursing staff.��


    ��Uncle Gerard!�� Selina suddenly spoke up, ��I don��t want to be hospitalized. Sister with the pink hair said she��de to y with me tomorrow!��


    ��Right,�� Gerard had an idea. ��She lives nearby and could be hired to help take care of Selina anytime.��


    Sivirin got curious, ��Sister with pink hair? Who��s that?��


    ��A Bewitcher college student.��

 Chapter 233: Shut Your Mouth

    Chapter 233: Shut Your Mouth


    Lise had a vague idea of what Igor was thinking.


    It was like the story they had seen in the picture book ��Orc ves and the Elven Empress,�� where the orc ve discovered the Empress��s secret but did not report it to the Emperor. Instead, he used it to ckmail the Elven Empress��proud, beautiful, and seemingly untouchable like a deity, she was forced to submit to the despicable orc ve. Stripped of her dignified royal robes, she came under the control of the orc ve and became��


    The iron-blooded Empress who executed treacherous officials, eliminated princes, reformed the bureaucracy, and liberated ves.


    It goes to show that once you have leverage over someone, you can really make them do outrageous things.


    If Lise were to catch Igor in a simr situation, she certainly wouldn��t report this bewitching man. They were right in the middle of starting their own venture. Aside from Lise, the team leader, and Ashe, the nanny, there were no other subordinates. They urgently needed someone with Igor��s talent to fill the vacancies in diplomacy, finance, and the military.


    In Igor��s view, Lise might not have had any special talents, but let��s not forget, Lise was now bound to Ashe. Although Ashe might not have had any talents either, let��s not forget, the two of them together represented half the power of the ��sphemous Gods Squad.��


    As long as Igor could control Lise, Ashe would naturally be in the palm of his hand. Then, this Con Artist could try to persuade Harvey, and their little squad would bepletely united��ready to hang Annan from amppost or grab a bucket and make a run for it.


    However, Igor��s ns were exactly what Lise had in mind.


    After thest question, Lise already knew that she couldn��t monopolize Ashe. Such a naive ve, even if not particrly useful, was worth keeping as a spare. Since she couldn��t form an unbreakable father-daughter alliance with Ashe, she had to consider a secondary option��a beneficial alliance.Lise even thought it would be good if Igor discovered her secret; it would save her the trouble of having to persuade him. Perhaps if the Little Witch had called Igor ��mother,�� this day might havee sooner.


    ��Name your price, Mr. Bukin,�� Lise said, not one to easilyply. ��And just so you know, don��t be too outrageous. This secret is important to me, but its real value isn��t that high��Annan wouldn��t abandon Ashe, and Ashe can��t abandon me. She won��t kick us out just because my mood swings faster than a kitten��s.��


    ��You were calling Ashe directly just now, and now you refer to him as your father?�� Igor suddenly interjected. ��Do you�� or should I say, do you think that kinship is the easiest cor to enve Ashe with?��


    Lise fell silent for a moment, then shook her head: ��No.��


    ��Mr. Bukin, you misunderstand. We rarely interfere with Lise��s choices, nor do we force her to do anything in the name of sisterhood�� At least, when Lise chooses to act spoiled with Ashe, we never gave her any instructions.��


    ��The Lise you usually deal with is just a six or seven-year-old girl who doesn��t know the world. She might be as bad as you imagine, but she��s definitely not as bad as us.��


    ��You may not like her, Mr. Bukin, but don��t hate her because of us,�� Lise said earnestly. ��This is a sister��s request.��


    Igor paused for a moment, ��Those words are uselessing from you. You should know, wee from a Kingdom where everyone is an orphan, without fathers or mothers, brothers or sisters. Kinship was removed along with the umbilical cord the moment we were born. I can��t understand your request that involves kinship.��


    ��But?�� Lise probed tentatively.


    ��There is no ��but,���� Igor said, his face darkening. ��I want control over you and Ashe.��


    ��Impossible!��


    ��Then you have no other chips to y with besides yourself and Ashe. If you won��t give this or that, then I might just have to share with others the ghost stories about Lise who loves looking in the mirror at midnight.��


    ��I can��t give you control over myself,�� Lise asserted seriously. ��I��ve only just managed to escape Annan��s direct control and reached a deterrent agreement with Ashe, barely maintaining my autonomy. I can��t give in on this�� At most, I can share a bit of Ashe with you.��


    Igor looked troubled. ��Even without you, I could sway him on my own�� Fine then, give me all of Ashe��s control.��


    ��Impossible!�� Lise shook her head. ��I may have control over Ashe, but he also has control over me. During these 101 days, I must maintain my own control to counterbnce that of Ashe, otherwise I��ll really be his obedient girl�� What I can do is give you control over Ashe after the 101 days.��


    ��After 101 days, the Weaving Festival will be over. What use is Ashe to me then? He��d be a waste of food,�� Igor said with disdain. ��Ashe��s value is only within these 101 days�� How about this: we split control over Ashe evenly, sharing his control between us, what do you say?��


    Lise was sharp. ��And if mymand conflicts with yours, whose will Ashe obey?��


    ��Mine, of course!��


    ��That��s not possible!��


    After a round of intense and thrilling bargaining, the allocation of Ashe��s control was finally settled: Igor would gain full control after 101 days, and during these 101 days, Igor would have one instance of ��absolutemand�� over Ashe. Even if it shed with Lise��s orders, Ashe would have to prioritize the Con Artist��s demands.


    Lise really didn��t want to give up even a single instance of ��absolutemand,�� preferring to share control of Ashe with Igor at all other times. But Igor clung tightly to this point, which seemed to be his bottom line. Lise felt that if she refused, the negotiation might truly fail. Considering Igor currently had the upper hand, Lise eventually conceded.


    ��But do you know how to ��transfer contract rights��? I��m no expert in Ritual Factions.��


    Lise deliberately waited until the end of the negotiations to bring up this issue. Had she mentioned it at the beginning, Igor might have realized he couldn��t gain anything from her, which could have led to an abrupt end to their discussion.


    Now that the negotiation had revealed a potential for coboration and given the terms agreed upon, it would increase the sunk cost for Igor if he decided to walk away from the table.


    However, Igor just smiled faintly, mysteriously producing two pieces of paper from nowhere.


    ��ying with contracts is to the Con Artist what ying with mud is to a child��a fundamental skill that doesn��t require formal learning.��


    Of course, it��s not that simple��if ��Sign Contract�� is arithmetic, then ��transfer contract rights�� is at least calculus.


    The contract was straightforward: Igor agreed not to disclose any of Lise��s secrets to anyone in any way and to help hide her ��sisters�� from Annan or anyone else who might be suspicious.


    In return, Lise would give thetter half of Ashe��s life to Igor, along with one instance of ��absolutemand�� over the next three months.


    As the contract took effect and dissipated into points of light, ��Lise�� suddenly said, ��From the beginning, the person you wanted was not me, but Ashe.��


    ��Correct.�� Igor nodded frankly. ��I had anticipated that you would not give up your control. I could only hope to scrape off as much of Ashe from you as possible. To trade your secrets for this much of Ashe, I feel this might be the least profitable deal I��ve ever made.��


    ��Is that the justification you��ve prepared for yourself, Mr. Bukin?��


    ��Lise�� nced at him, ��You know, Lise was quite noisy just now. She was very reluctant to sell the future of Ashe to someone like you, a bad guy. She didn��t want Ashe to suffer misfortune in the future. But since I was in charge of the negotiations, I ultimately overruled her wishes.��


    Igor snorted, ��Oh, are there cracks in the rtionship between you sisters? As a Mind Sorcerer, I would be happy to offer my services.��


    ��Not at all, because I made it clear to her��selling Ashe to you ispletely risk-free, in every sense.��


    Igor didn��t quite understand what she meant, but ��Lise�� quickly changed the subject: ��I��ve recently acquired an ability called ��Love Hunting,�� which allows me to keenly sense the emotions of love revealed in the details.��


    ��Just by looking at Annan and Banjeet, I knew that Annan��s feelings for Banjeet were more than just familial.��


    ��Even though Annan alwaysmands Banjeet quite naturally, she bes evasive or slightly stiff when Banjeet initiates physical contact. This indicates the turmoil within her heart, where ethics and genuine feelings twist her heart into a knot of confusion.��


    Igor recalled the interactions between Annan and Banjeet and couldn��t help but nod. ��There does seem to be something there.��


    ��Lise�� continued, ��When I look at Mr. Harvey, I can tell that he once had a true love, and that this love has passed away.��


    ��How can you tell?��


    ��He often falls into deep thought, which could be a side effect of the Catnip Cigarette, but his eyes are filled with tenderness while his fingers constantly tremble. Moreover, he��s been frequently looking at photos in the Gospel that bring back memories. Grief is like a stone tied to him, drowning him in the sea of his recollections.��


    Igor nodded convincingly. ��He did start hanging around with us after hearing about his lover��s death.��


    ��Lise�� said, ��Then, when I look at����


    Igor turned the record yer up to full volume: ��Shut it, will you.��

 Chapter 234: Integrity at Its Finest!

    Chapter 234: Integrity at Its Finest!


    In the game room, Ashe and Deya were locked in intense Battle.


    The Wandering Sword Saint executed aplex Miraclebo, cornering the Time Witch at the edge of the board, rendering her utterly defenseless.


    As Ashe was about to finish off this formidable foe with a chain ofbos, he excitedly prepared the Wandering Sword Saint��s ultimate Miracle, ��Midnight Sun Twilight Turn,�� aiming to end the Battle with a flourish!


    However, it was the slight pause caused by initiating the ultimate Miracle that Deya keenly captured.


    She decisively executed a dodge Miracle, ��Reminiscent Years Like Water,�� avoiding the Wandering Sword Saint��s ultimate, and then used the throwing Miracle, ��Zero Hour Echo,�� to turn the tables and pin the Wandering Sword Saint against the edge.


    The tide hadpletely turned. Although the Time Witch was down to a sliver of health, her Talent, the blessing ��All Miracle attacks increase the enemy��s stun time by 5 frames,�� meant that with a perfectbo rhythm, she could leave her opponent without a chance to resist or escape.


    Multiple times, all it took was for Ashe to be hit once by Deya, and then he could practically let go of the controller and watch as the Wandering Sword Saint was endlesslyboed to death by the Time Witch.


    In contrast, the Wandering Sword Saint��s Talent, the blessing ��Start the Battle with four times attack power, which decreases over time,�� meant that if he couldn��t seize the opportunity to finish his enemy right at the start, he stood little chance as the fight dragged on.


    Watching the Wandering Sword Saint immobilized, Ashe was frantic with urgency.If it were just another routine thrashing, it would have been one thing, but this time the Time Witch was on the brink of defeat, and Ashe was so close to avenging his losses. It was like a download progress bar stuck at 99.9% �� he couldn��t ept falling at this hurdle!


    Ashe cast a steely nce around the room. Only he and Lise were present in the game room; Harvey and Igor had no interest in watching their gamey, Banjeet did seem interested, but Annan appeared to have ns for him, leaving no time to coach Ashe and Lise��s gaming.


    This meant, whatever happened between him and Lise, no one was watching, and no one could stop them.


    Lise, it was you who pushed me to this.


    I didn��t want to resort to that trick.


    But now, it seems like Destiny is making a fool of me.


    Ashe kicked away Lise��s stool, and while she was distracted by the fall, he decisively executed a series of Miracles to defeat the Time Witch.


    ��Remember to game in moderation; too much indulgence is not healthy. Minors should y no more than one hour of games. It��s time for a bath, and with that, let��s call it a night. Goodnight!��


    Before Deya could even grasp what had happened, Ashe had already dashed out of the game room, making a quick escape from the scene.


    Lise, nursing her sore behind and staring at the door left ajar, heard the announcement from the Holographic Screen stating the oue of the game. Letting go of the controller, her lips pouted enough to hang a kettle.


    Enduring!


    But she couldn��t hold back anymore!


    ��Arghhh!�� Deya rolled around on the carpet, choking with rage: ��Darn it! Don��t try to calm me down, I��m going to kill him! I swear I��ll get him, not even the Bronze Dragon can save him!��


    It took her a while topose herself, then she stood up angrily, turned off the Holographic Screen, and hit Ashe��s controller as if to vent her frustration before heading back to her room to take a bath.


    Around 11 PM, as her consciousness connected with the Virtual Realm, Deya entrusted her physical body to Lise and descended into the Virtual Realm with a scowl.


    Lise stretchedzily on the bed, feeling sleepy but not ready to fall asleep just yet.


    She was at an age full of energy and had been happily ��forced�� by the Observer to y hide and seek with Banjeet all afternoon. Interestingly, Aunt Bukin and Uncle Harvey even joined in for several rounds before leaving.


    But Banjeet was incredibly skilled, effortlessly finding them no matter how well Aunt Bukin and Uncle Harvey hid, leaving Aunt Bukin with a somewhat sullen expression after her losses.


    Lise had wanted to involve her dad in the game, and Ashe, who was in the gaming pod, had agreed readily. However, after searching for a while, Lise discovered that Ashe hadn��t moved at all from the virtual gaming pod, iming that ��the most dangerous ce is the safest.��


    That��s when Lise realized that this hypocritical adult was definitely a master at cking off��a true wage thief.


    Adults are supposed to go to work, and Dad is definitely the type who would find an excuse to y games openly while at work.


    Even though she had a lot of fun, Lise felt it wasn��t enough. But at this hour, there was no one else to y with her, and her sisters had all gone to the Virtual Realm, so��


    ��was she free now?


    Lise suddenly jumped up, clenched her little fists excitedly, and all sleepiness vanished.


    Right, with her sisters not around, she could do whatever she wanted, couldn��t she?


    But what exactly should she do?


    Suddenly, Lise looked down at the new Bracelet she had received.


    It still had 10,000 copper coins in it, which the White Queen, Secret Princess, and ck Butler had discussed all afternoon without deciding how to spend the money.


    Buying stuff�� Lise wanted to buy stuff too!


    She twisted the Bracelet and called up the Holographic Screen, and as if sensing her inner desires, the first page that appeared on the Curtain was the shopping store.


    I��m just looking to see what��s for sale, she thought to herself.


    As soon as Deya entered the Virtual Realm, she realized she was sitting in the back seat of a sports car, with the Observer beside her, and the Swordswoman in the front seat. In her foul mood, she failed to realize that this seating arrangement would also upset another youngdy who, with her arms crossed, said, ��Can we find a Sorcerer Projection to fight tonight? Preferably a male, I need to vent.��


    Ashe instinctively wanted to say ��tell us what bad luck you��ve run into to cheer us up,�� but he suddenly remembered his promise to the Witch not to inquire about her life, so he swallowed the schadenfreudement.


    He was someone who took promises very seriously, perhaps because his father had kept his promise to buy him a gaming system after he scored dual hundreds for the first time in elementary school, or maybe because he saw his dear elder brother adhere to a promise which resulted in his father standing up to the homeroom teacher��s pressure and allowing his brother to date early because he made it into the top ten in his age group.


    Ashe��s father wasn��t what you��d call a traditional good dad. Hecked ambition, sticking to the same job his whole life, enjoying a drink or two in the evenings, and not one to look after the kids. He was obsessed with forging swords��a passion so intense that back in his hometown he even had a forge, where the ng of the hammer on Saturdays mornings was more jarring than any rm clock. While other kids had sweet dreams, Ashe only dreamed of being hammered down. His brother had it even worse; halfway through a spring dream, as he was about to drop his trousers, he��d dream of the hammer crashing down.


    Despite all this, it was hard for the two brothers to speak ill of their father. Not only did they earn bragging rights with their friends by showing off their father��s unsharpened swords when they were little, but more importantly, their father respected them.


    He was strict when he needed to be and wasn��t one to coddle orpromise. He didn��t seem to expect much from Ashe and his brother, much like he didn��t expect his crafted swords to be used for anything other than wall decorations. But he was still faithful in smoothing out the roughness of their adolescent years with his hammer. Yet if the brothers showed their own ��backbone��, he wouldn��t skimp on his respect. Young Ashe didn��t think much of having a father who respected him until he grew up and met all sorts of people, realizing not everyone had a father figure.


    Compared to his father, though, his mother was the real piece of work, but that��s a story for another time.


    Just when Ashe decided not to delve into the Witch��s foul mood, the Swordswoman turned and asked proactively, ��Got any misfortunes to share to cheer us up?��


    Ashe would never admit he may have been a bad influence on the Swordswoman.


    Deya seemed to have a bellyful ofints, but aside from herself, the other sisters didn��t care for such trifles. Even though the Swordswoman��s tone was odd, Deyaplied and spilled it out: ��I met a really despicable man today. In a fair duel, knowing he was about to lose, he still used external factors to throw me off, resulting in my defeat. And he had the audacity to leave without a hint of apology after humiliating me.��


    Since saying she lost at a game seemed a bit odd, Deya decided to use the term ��duel��, considering the game they were ying was ��Sorcerer Duel 14��.


    ��That��s despicable!�� Ashe erupted. ��How can there be men in this world who can��t handle defeat? I have no respect for him!��


    ��Indeed.�� Even Sonya couldn��t help but agree. She wasn��t against the use of outside tactics, but given her current social status, she was destined to be ��a victim of such tactics,�� so she firmly nted herself on the side of ��justice.�� ��A fair duel should not bepromised.��


    ��Exactly!�� Deya found sce in the collective condemnation, excited like she had made a new friend. ��That man is just vile����


    Sonya didn��t actually have much desire to cozy up to the Little Witch, but Deya was like a fruit can that just needed a gentle pry to open. Sonya��s instinct for working�� prompted her to skillfully echo Deya��women know best how to charm other women.


    Before long, Deya had brushed aside all her bad impressions of Sonya, even thinking that Sonya understood her better than the sisters, and had a very sound set of values.


    Values that just happened to align perfectly with her own.


    As Ashe drove his car in pursuit of the Chariot of the Bull, Deya adjusted her sses slightly and engaged in a conversation with the sisters.


    White Queen: ��Do I really not need to step in formunication and intelligence gathering this time? Last night you were vehemently opposed to contacting them.��


    Deya: ��I can��t always depend on you, and it��s just the Observer and the Swordswoman, I should be able to handle them. Tonight, as usual, I��ll take care of the Virtual Realm.��


    ck Butler: ��Last night you disliked the Swordswoman, and now after a brief interaction, you��re chatting away with her like there��s no tomorrow. You think you can handle it, but I bet soon you��ll sell us outpletely�� If it weren��t for the new Little Witch, Princess, you would undoubtedly be the social nipoop among us.��


    Red Death Eater: ��Even counting the Witch, the Princess is still the weakest in social skills.��


    Deya: ��Little Red, do you really have the nerve to criticize me?��


    ck Butler: ��Little Red just doesn��t socialize, which is different from having low social skills. It��s like not ying games versus being bad at them; they��re not the same thing. So she��s qualified to judge you.��


    Deya: ��White Queen, look at them!��


    White Queen: ��Since Princess wishes it so, we should respect her desires. After all, we had a clear division ofbor from the start: Princess handles the Virtual Realm Adventure, I manage negotiations, ck Butler is in charge of schemes and misdeeds, and Red Death Eater is responsible for battle and carnage�� An asional cameo is fine, but if possible, work should be left to the corresponding person. After all, we all want to feel needed.��


    ck Butler: ��Speaking of which, it��s been a long time since I��ve been active, so are you really not nning to let me take the stage? The bond between Observer and Swordswoman is in a delicate state, and White Queen, your babying approach won��t peel back their veil. Let me take over; I can induce a qualitative change in their rtionship��perhaps for the better, but I��ll strive to guide it towards the worse. Although we can��t do much in the Virtual Realm, our bodies are already very sharp weapons.��


    ��No, that��s not eptable!��


    ��No, Observer and Swordswoman are important allies for us right now.��


    Deya and White Queen objected in unison.


    ��Ah, it seems it��s another day I��m kept on ice. But I��m not in a hurry,�� ck Butler said. ��My very existence means�� we need me.��


    ��I��ll wait with great anticipation for the day I take center stage.��


    Despite some controversy, Deya regained her position as the spokesperson for Exploration in the Virtual Realm.


    White Queen gave her a piece of advice: the focus of Exploration in the Virtual Realm was no longer merely about exploring, but about improving her own status within the exploration team.


    Now that she was already on friendly terms with Swordswoman, the next step was Observer.


    Observer had agreed with her views earlier, indicating that despite his unpleasant nature, his core values were actually quite sound, so getting along with him should be no problem!


    ��Observer!��


    Sonya��s reaction was even quicker than Ashe��s; she turned her head to see what this ��new sister�� intended to do.


    Deya racked her brains for social skills: it was said that the best way to close the distance with someone was topliment their appearance.


    However, Observer��s face was a blur of mist, impossible to discern, and the trench coat covering the body could well befit the self-defeatingic viin in a fairy tale book, so��


    ��Your hands are so beautiful, may I touch them?��


    Ashe blinked.


    Sonya was bbergasted.


    Was she being that straightforward? Generally, wouldn��t the usual approach be to say something about having applied too much hand cream and offering to share some?

 Chapter 235: The Changing Witch

    Chapter 235: The Changing Witch


    Cornered beasts fight with a crazed desperation, yet the Hunter��s threads had silently entangled its limbs. As the creature panicked due to its shifting center of gravity, the butcher��s de swung down with a heavy blow.


    Miracle Water Thread, Miracle Evil Light sh!


    Precise and elegant, yet brutal and efficient, the first Overlord Creature the trio encountered, the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon, had its head split open like a watermelon. It possessed a mane ofcquer-ck hair as if styled by a beauty salon and a massive body akin to a dump truck. However, now it was destined to dissipate into motes of light, mingling with the Reverse Golden Rain and sinking into the soil as nourishment.


    Several spirits took the opportunity to flee but were casually captured by the trio.


    ��It��s not much different from the usual monster hordes.��


    Sonya sheathed her sword, inteced her fingers and stretched them forward, flexing her joints to rx,menting like a Gourmet, ��But thest Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon did have its merits. Scales, 2 points; movements, 3 points; meat quality, 4 points. But for the skull, I��d give it 5 points��it��s as crisp as a chip����


    ��Thatment alone will have me remove chips from my menu for at least the next five days; my fats thank you,�� Ashe said, not amused. ��But to be fair, this Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon��s strength is no less than other Large Creatures. Plus, itmanded the other fierce wolf dragons��there were three times it almost severely injured you.��


    ��You had my back, didn��t you?�� Sonya nced at Ashe and suddenly caught sight of an incredibly cute girl. Herrge eyes seemed expectant, a proud tuft of red hair on her head begging to be smoothed down.


    Sonya couldn��t help but reach out and ruffle Deya��s head, ��Besides, I have the super impressive Witch by my side. How could a mere Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon escape our exquisite teamwork?����Exactly!�� Deya said proudly, hands on her hips, ��As long as the Swordswoman is with me, even ten more would be no challenge!��


    ��If you can attract the hatred of ten Giant Fierce Wolf Dragons as firmly as capitalists attract thebor of their workers, I wouldn��t mind your enthusiasm for the job.�� Ashe pped his hands. ��Alright, now it��s time to collect the bonus. Let��s see what surprises the Fierce Wolf Dragons have prepared for us.��


    The Fierce Wolf Dragon��s den was the third Resource Point they had found tonight and was also the first overlord Resource Point they encountered��with not only thirteen Fierce Wolf Dragons but also one overlord creature, the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon.


    Of course, the battle wasn��t as easy as these three made it sound, as if they were cheating in a single-yer game with a co-op team. An overlord creature hasbat powerparable to that of a Large Creature and can alsomand Gregarious Creatures inbat support. They fight without any sense of honor.


    When the boss attacks, its minions will shamelessly sneak attack, and even a Battle Sorcerer who excels in groupbat would be as helpless as a student who realizes on thest day of summer vacation that they have yet to do their homework.


    Fortunately, Ashe and hispanions were just as shameless. They found a narrow passage and blew up the walls on both sides, reducing the space to only allow two young girls to dodge and weave. Ashe then stood behind, stabbing with his Heart Sword, quickly exhausting the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon��s minions. What followed was a one-on-three showdown with the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon.


    The Resource Point they had fought so hard to secure was naturally rich in spoils. The den contained three types of resources in production: wood, mercury, and sulfur.


    Wood and ore were the cheapest resources; the first two Resource Points they found tonight contained wood and ore. But mercury and sulfur were rare.


    ��Fiery Sulfur�� was the best fuel for Fire Magic and Gun Technique spirits, while ��Mercurial Silver�� was a universal lubricant for spirits of Poison Magic, Water Art, machinery, and other Factions.


    The rarer the material, the wider the range of spirits it could cultivate, and the stronger the effect. Meanwhile, ordinary wood and ore materials were not only picky for the spirits but also yielded inferior cultivation results.


    Sometimes Ashe even wondered if he was the servant and the spirits were the masters. How else could he exin going through hardship and risking his life to find cultivation resources for the spirits?


    In short, the den of the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon was likely the best haul of the night.


    However��


    Ashe gazed at the pool of mercury before him, next to which stood a machine that looked both crude and somewhatplex, as if an Orc had drunkenly cobbled it together from a pile of parts in a once-off artistic endeavor that could never be replicated.


    But it was this contraption, which rightly belonged in a heap of junk, that had been driven by the spirits of the Fierce Wolf Dragons, extracting mercury from the pool and refining it into precious materials like ��Stoneflow Silver�� and ��Stonemilk Silver.��


    Ashe looked around. The den of the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon was a cave overgrown with wildly proliferating vines, and due to the Fierce Wolf Dragons��ck of interest in constructing a Sewer system, the natural odors were quite pronounced.


    Yet the square edges exposed on the ceiling, the pirs that had crumbled, leaving only their bases, and the corner artifact that once was a fire pit but now served as a urinal for the Fierce Wolf Dragons, all suggested that the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon was merely a tenant here, not thendlord.


    Of course, it was also possible that the previousndlords devolved into the appearance of Fierce Wolf Dragons �C the idea of enemy and ally being of the same origin wasn��t novel. But since the Swordswoman had justpared their skulls to potato chips, Ashe decided to forsake such tedious conjectures, hoping he��d still be able to enjoy cucumber-vored chips in six days.


    ��Observer! Observer!��


    The Witch ran up to him, extending her hand: ��Here��s some Galewood, and this Purple Sulfur, you can use them!��


    ��Ah, thanks.��


    ��You��re wee!�� And with that, the Witch zipped off to scavenge other resources.


    Ashe��s gaze followed her retreating figure, and Sonya, unbeknownst to him, had stealthily moved to his side: ��The Witch is�� a bit odd today.��


    Ashe had noticed as well �C it was impossible not to. Today, the Witch��s hair was ck, her dress too, and it reached down to her knees, unlike yesterday��s white miniskirt that revealed her thighs, a stark change.


    In battle, too, she no longer transformed into a fiery red warrior; only her sheer gloves would change to a rose-red hue, and her hair seemed to be highlighted with streaks of crimson, a blend of ck and red.


    Of course, what Sonya was referring to wasn��t the Witch��s change of clothing, but her personality.


    Unlike theposed and calm demeanor of the previous night, tonight��s Witch was as lively as the icing on a cake and proved to be quite gullible��after just two Battles, Sonya had easily learned all about the Witch��s spirits, Miracles, and her preferred style ofbat. Their rtionship had progressed at a breakneck pace.


    If this were the real world, they would be at the level of going to the Restroom together, holding hands.


    Moreover, after the first Battle ended, Sonya couldn��t resist patting the Witch on the head as a form of praise when she noticed the red tuft of hair sticking up. Unexpectedly, this gesture opened the floodgates, and after every Battle, the Witch made sure she was in Sonya��s line of sight, urging praise with her expressive tuft of hair.


    What kind of environment could possibly cultivate such a personality?


    Even in Gales, it would be hard to find a girl this easy to bamboozle, right?


    However, these were not the main points. The crux was that the Witch was trying to curry favor with the Observer and herself in a very clumsy way. Seeing Sonya��s friendly demeanor, the Witch felt that she no longer needed to invest much effort there, so she kept gravitating towards the Observer.


    Handing materials to the Observer, asking what colors he liked,plimenting him on his good looks today�� it was cringeworthy to the point of making one want to curl their toes.


    Yet, this adorably silly Witch made Sonya feel she was even more difficult to handle.


    If it were theposed Witch from the night before, Sonya could use all her skills and go all out to deal with her.


    While Sonya is now among the upper echelons of Swordflower College, she was no stranger to factionalpetition, ss politics, dormitory hierarchies, and cliques among girls when she first started. Just a month ago, she and Lois were still at each other��s throats.


    If ��dealing with maniptive women�� could be categorized as a Magical Faction, Sonya felt confident she could easily earn a Gold Tier in that discipline.


    Sonya initially suspected that the Witch was adopting the ��clueless cute�� strategy to win hearts, as the na?ve and sweet approach always seemed to be in demand. Even Drose starred in a few Shadow Dramas with titles like ��The Domineering Prince Falls for the Silly Sweetheart,�� and Sonya herself had taken this approach during her first semester to boost her poprity at the college. She knew all too well the devastating effect of such an innocent and pure fa?ade.


    Especially when feigned, the lethality of innocence is strongest since true naivety mayck finesse, whereas a contrived act hits just the right notes, not angering anyone.


    But Sonya found that the Witch was genuinely naive.


    It was as if the Witch had torn off the Werewolf Mask she used for defense the previous night, revealing the harmless and pure face of amb. She seemed tock experience in interacting with her peers, her way of socializing involvedying her heart out in the open, shouting for attention����look at me, look at me����a country kid would have more guile.


    Being an expert at feigning innocence herself, Sonya could tell this wasn��t an act. But if it wasn��t an act, then what about theposed White Witch from the night before?


    Ashe seemed to have some guesses, as he knew the Witch��s Inherent Talent was a Personality Split, and the Witch fromst night was clearly not the same persona as the one tonight.


    But should this information be shared with the Swordswoman?


    Or rather, should he be the one to tell her?


    ��I suggest you ask her directly, after all, it should be her privacy.��


    ��Just tell me since you know.��


    ��But if the Witch asks about your secrets, should I be honest with her too?��


    Ashe waved his hand dismissively, as if to swat away annoying flies, before Sonya could retort: ��I know what you��re going to say��yes, emotions are profound because of their depth, and rtionships are intimate because of their closeness. You should indeed have more privileges with me than the Witch, such as discussing her gossip behind her back.��


    ��I do enjoy gossip, but the premise is those people don��t be colleagues we meet every day. The three of us will berades-in-arms who stick together out of a fear of death in the foreseeable future. It��s no big deal to whisper and vent about the third person asionally, but we shouldn��t make it a habit to privately discuss the gossip of teammates��it would inevitably lead to you, Swordswoman, thinking we��re talking about your secrets whenever you see me and the Witch together.��


    Sonya immediately countered, ��I��m not that sensitive!��


    ��I think the only thing in this world that��s more sensitive than you is Secret Poison,�� said Ashe in irritation. ��Although it��s inevitable to form cliques when a team getsrger, right now there are only three of us. I hope we can keep the atmosphere at the level of a student interest group for as long as possible, before we enter the dirty adult world of gossiping about colleagues all day.��


    ��Actually, I��ve had a question for a long time��what does gossip mean?��


    ��You didn��t understand?��


    ��Given the context, I can guess it probably means speaking ill of others.��


    ��It��s basically talking about people��s private matters.��


    ��What does that mean, ��private matters��?��


    ��Are you picking a fight?�� Ashe was losing his patience. ��If you want to know the Witch��s secrets, just go ask her yourself!��


    ��But asking about someone��s secrets so bluntly can make one seem to have low emotional intelligence����


    ��Then let me help you. I��m actually quite curious too.��


    Without further ado, Ashe pulled Sonya along to find Deya. Sonya was taken aback by the sudden hand-holding��it wasn��t their first time holding hands. They had sped hands while soaring through the Sea of Knowledge, and there had been times during battle when they assisted each other. But this casual contact in everyday circumstances was new.

 Chapter 236: Officially Joining the Team

    Chapter 236: Officially Joining the Team


    At this moment, Deya was squatting inside the lumber mill searching for usable materials.


    The lumber mill connected to the outside of the nest, where huge, aesthetically unpleasing machines, like fishing rods, plunged into the dense forests of the outside world. Driven by spirits, environmentally friendly trees rapidly induced by time were transformed by the machines into cubic logs that fell into the nest.


    Logically speaking, Fierce Wolf Dragons wouldn��t use lumber, and with lumber taking up so much space, the nest should quickly be overcrowded. However, the lumber mill didn��t actually have much lumber.


    While searching for materials, Deya was also taking lessons from her sisters:


    White Queen: ��Princess, you can��t just hand things over so directly.��


    Deya: ��Should I throw them instead?��


    White Queen: ��That��s not what I mean�� You��ll make the Observer feel awkward.��


    Deya: ��(��������)I don��t understand.��


    ck Butler: ��Please, just let White do it. I can��t stand to watch this.��Deya: ��I think I��m doing great. The Swordswoman likes me, and the Observer will like me soon too!��


    ck Butler: ��Who gave you the courage? Little Red, say something to her!��


    Red Death Eater: ��Something.��


    At that moment, Deya heard footsteps and turned her head to see the Observer pulling the Swordswoman over.


    ��Why is your personality so different todaypared to yesterday, witch?��


    ��Ah? That��s because yesterday was the White Queen, and today is the Secret Princess.��


    Deya didn��t hide anything and spoke very frankly.


    ck Butler: ��I knew she would sell us all out.��


    ��The Observer has known about the existence of the Little Witch and the Secret Princess for a long time, we couldn��t have kept it a secret.�� White Queen tried very hard to find excuses for Deya.


    ��Huh?�� Deya blinked vigorously, as if pricked by a needle: ��Don��t you know? Did I say something wrong? Observer, didn��t you tell her?��


    ��I don��t know the details myself, that��s why I came to ask you.�� Ashe spread his hands: ��Witch, do you want to share your secret with us? If you don��t want to, you can refuse, just like I��ve never asked the Swordswoman what ��Small horn�� means.��


    Deya adjusted her sses, quickly receiving advice from the sisterly council: ��Actually, it��s not a big deal����


    Just like Sonya could freely vent to the Observer about the roommate academy and society, the Witch sisters also considered the Swordswoman and the Observer to be virtual friends with whom it was safe to share secrets��firstly, because the Observer already knew their secrets, so concealing them was pointless, and secondly, because the Swordswoman and the Observer did not intersect in reality, which was evident from the excitement of their encounter in the Virtual Realm the previous night. White Queen believed they might be from two different Kingdoms.


    Furthermore, since the Observer always appeared before them in an illusory form, White Queen spected that he might also belong to a different Kingdom and wondered through what Miracle he was bound to them.


    In other words, they, the Observer, and the Swordswoman, were all strangers from different Kingdoms.


    No matter what the Observer and the Swordswoman knew, it could not affect the sisters�� lives.


    Therefore, not just Deya, but all the sisters except for the more reserved White Queen, were eager to reveal their existence to strangers.


    ��I am White Queen, please take good care of the Princess,�� said the gentle andposed big sister who had made a brief appearance the previous night in a white suit+skirt+absolute territory.


    ��I am Red Death Eater.�� With red hair and red clothes, her fierce gaze and alert demeanor resembled that of a brown bear living in the wild.


    ��I am ck Butler, mainly responsible for helping the sisterse up with insults.�� Dressed in a proper butler��s uniform, with hair neatly tied behind her neck, her androgynous attire was quite dashing, and her refined yet spirited facial features made one wonder if her mouth could only spout pearls of wisdom.


    ��And then there��s me, Secret Princess!�� Deya returned to her original appearance, proudly standing with her hands on her hips: ��However, the Observer has given me the nickname Witch, so you can just call me Witch. I will mainly lead the activities in the Virtual Realm, so I am the Witch!��


    It was not just Sonya; even Ashe was amazed��switching personalities could automatically change clothes and hair color, faster than a magical girl warrior. Was this a natural talent that came with several skins?


    ��Do you have any other sisters, Witch?�� Sonya asked curiously.


    ��There are���� Deya paused: ��But they are all busy with other matters and won��t appear for the time being.��


    Could it be multitasking in such a cool way?


    Ashe suddenly felt an impulse to split personalities as well��creating one to work and train in reality, another to fight and adventure in the Virtual Realm, while he himself would be responsible for Rest and Entertainment. It seemed like a perfect division ofbor.


    However, it was just a thought. Putting aside the fact that he didn��t have the ability, even if he did, the most likely oue would be: one Ashe has water to drink, two Ashes carry water to drink, three Ashes have no water to drink�� After all, they were all Ashe; why should one get toze around while the others work?


    His current minor goal was still to tap into the potential of the Substitute spirit, so that one day Ashe could live the life of a Sorcerer capitalist exploiting spirits.


    ��Why are you in charge of Exploration in the Virtual Realm?�� Ashe suddenly realized a problem: ��Logically speaking, shouldn��t it be the Red Death Eater, who is responsible for Battle, to take on that role?��


    ��Because I know a little bit about what the other sisters can do, which makes it easier to handle various emergencies. If it reallyes down to it, we can switch out,�� Deya exined, picking up a piece of raw material from the pile of wood: ��Besides, exploring the Virtual Realm is tiring, and among the sisters, only I am interested in the Virtual Realm�� Hm? Oh, alright.��


    Deya suddenly fixed her gaze on Ashe, asking, ��Observer, Observer, what do you think of White Queen, Red Death Eater, and ck Butler?��


    Sonya was taken aback by the question��it was a strange way to ask, simr to how her ssmates would introduce male Nobles to her with the tone of selling fruit.


    ��Hm?�� Ashe thought for a moment: ��White Queen is dignified and impressive, Red Death Eater is sharp and wild, ck Butler is cool and dashing�� Witch, you have three very good sisters.��


    ��What about the Swordswoman, what do you think?�� Deya then turned to Sonya.


    ��Basically the same as the Observer,�� Sonya, with her undeniable social talents, pped her hands and said: ��But each of you is so beautiful. I like the charm of White Queen, the coolness of Red Death Eater, and ck Butler is exactly my type. Witch, you yourself are so cute�� Can I have all of you?��


    Deya��s eyes sparkled with excitement, and she suddenly jumped to hug Ashe and Sonya, making happy humming noises through her nose. Ashe and Sonya were a bit taken aback by her sudden bear hug, getting pressed to the ground as the Witch rubbed against them like a little bear.


    ��Witch, this sudden����


    ��We��re so happy!�� the Witch lifted her head, her charming face brimming with an infectious smile: ��The White Queen and the others rarely show themselves in public, almost no one knows they exist. You two are the only ones�� They��ve always wanted to know how others would see them, and your approval delights them, delights us all! If you don��t believe me, let them tell you����


    Lise Deya adjusted her sses and suddenly transformed into the persona of the ck Butler.


    The ck Butler sternly dered, ��That��s not true, she��s talking nonsense!��


    ��I am not!�� Deya switched back, huffing, ��ck Butler, your face was clearly flushed with joy just a moment ago! We all saw it!��


    ��I knew she would sell us all out!�� cursed the ck Butler.


    ��I rest my case.�� The White Queen gave up the struggle.


    The Witch sat up, suddenly recalling something, ��Right, in the picture book ��The House of the North Wind,�� the characters became friends after sharing secrets�� So, are we friends now?��


    ��You shared secrets with us, but we haven��t shared ours with you,�� Ashe pointed out.


    Deya blinked, her socially awkward circuits overloading in the moment.


    Ah, is this a rejection? What to do next? I really want to find a hole to crawl into. Maybe it��s time to switch, White Queen save me��


    ��But we have a long, long future ahead of us in the Virtual Realm,�� Ashe stood up and dusted off his pants. ��We��ll find time to share our stories.��


    Sonya sat up, gently rubbing Deya��s stubborn cowlick, letting out a resigned sigh.


    ��I��m just an ordinary college girl, I don��t have any sensational secrets to share with you.��


    ck-and-White Witch Lise Deya, officially joined the team.

 Chapter 237: The Civilization of Time Continent

    Chapter 237: The Civilization of Time Continent


    ��Have you ever felt that this ce is more than just their of the Fierce Wolf Dragon?��


    After scraping their clean and converting all the excess resources into essence, Ashe, the eco-cleaning master, suddenly asked a peculiar question.


    Sonya: ��What are you trying to say?��


    ��Actually, I��ve been questioning the manufacturing machines in the Resource Point sincest night. The strange construction of these ancient gadgets could frustrate any technical Sorcerer, but they couldn��t possibly have been made by Knowledge Creatures, right?��


    Leaning on the hood of a sports car, Ashe showed no fear that a mechanism underneath him might spring a de to kiss his feet: ��Even the most dexterous Knowledge Creature��s ws can��tpare to an Ogre��s pinky finger used for picking its nose.��


    ��It��s not like they secretly y the piano, make music, and write in script with their ws when we��re not around, only to hide their tools the moment we show up, just to keep us from discovering their civilization?��


    Deya also began to expand her thoughts: ��Speaking of which, what do Knowledge Creatures do when we Sorcerers aren��t around?��


    ��There are no Entertainment facilities inside, and they don��t need to hunt, so the only thing they could be doing is�� I get it, ying hide and seek!��


    Ashe said: ��Actually, it could also be inter������Hey!�� Sonya chopped at Ashe��s shoulder, ��The Witch doesn��t have much experience interacting with others. Don��t spout lewd jokes in front of her!��


    ��Are you implying it��s okay to do so with you? Besides, I was going to say ��interaction��. It��s your dirty mind that thought I��d have a dirty mind!��


    ��What��s a lewd joke?�� Deya asked, her face brimming with curiosity.


    Ashe questioned: ��The White Queen and the ck Butler don��t know?��


    ��They don��t. We just have different personalities, but our knowledge is shared. What I don��t know, they won��t know either.�� The Witch adjusted her sses: ��However, the White Queen said she might guess what it is and will exin it to me when we return to reality.��


    ��I could give an example, like with the Swordswoman��stop, there��s no need to waste Time Spirits, right? Swordswoman, your financial situation can��t be so well-off to afford that, right?��


    Sonya scoffed, stopping the activation of ��Sharpening for a Day,�� and said, ��Observer, are you suggesting that the production machines at the Resource Point, and the ruins in the Fierce Wolf Dragon��sir, are the masterpieces of another civilization?��


    ��That��s the only exnation,�� Ashe replied. ��Could it be that Sorcerers once established a civilization on the Time Continent? However, considering the abstract aesthetic of those production machines, perhaps Ogres are the purebloods of the Sorcerer Bloodline, and we��re all Mudbloods stealing arcane energy.��


    This spection seemed persuasive, yet Sonya shook her head: ��But the time of Time Continent migrates with the movement of the River of Flowing Gold. For example, in about two hours, this ce will turn into a Static Domain where everything withers, and only Knowledge Creatures can continue to live. Sorcerers would be frozen in time, bing part of history. How could anyone establish a civilization here?��


    ��Is it possible that Knowledge Creatures could also be Sorcerers?�� Deya suggested. ��I read in the fairy tale book ��New World�� where a Sorcerer was born among the Human race, previously considered lower beings by Elf Sorcerers. As a result, Human Sorcerersunched a counterattack, destroyed the Elf Kingdom, and established a new civilization. Maybe in the past, Knowledge Creatures dominated the world, and the rise of other Race Sorcerers destroyed the civilization of Knowledge Creatures.��


    ��Can such stories really be included in a fairy tale book?�� Sonya couldn��t help but say. ��I think it��s more likely that ancient Sorcerers invented some Miracle that allowed survival in the Static Domain, and thus established a Sorcerer empire on the Time Continent.��


    They looked at Ashe: ��Observer, what do you think?��


    ��Hmm, the Witch��s guess is full of imagination, and the Swordswoman��s thinking is very prudent, both have their merits,�� Ashe said, stroking his chin. ��But I think you��re thinking too small. Since we��re guessing, why not start with the entire world?��


    Ashe looked up at the sky obscured by the Reverse Golden Rain, gazing at the distant White Bull��s massive hoof: ��Maybe there was never a Chariot of the Bull or a River of Flowing Gold, and the Time Continent was just an ordinary habitablend, so there might have been a thriving civilization here once.��


    Sonya was instinctively about to argue when Ashe waved his hand: ��I know what you��re thinking��maybe a thousand years ago, two thousand years ago, ten thousand years ago, the Chariot of the Bull existed. But what about thirty thousand years ago, or a hundred thousand years ago? Over a long enough timeline, all massive changes be natural Truths that we take for granted.��


    ��Perhaps one day in the future, the Chariot of the Bull will grow tired and stop moving, and the active areas of the Time Continent will forever be fixed. Future Sorcerers may never believe that their predecessors had to chase after the White Bull.��


    The Red-haired Swordswoman had to admit that this possibility existed, ��But what practical significance does discussing this unverifiable spection have?��


    ��It��s just a casual chat after work, and don��t you think it��s quite romantic? Together, we uncover the mysteries of the Virtual Realm and explore the history of the past, just like the heroes in adventure stories.�� Ashe nced at Sonya: ��Besides, you��re undergoing intense Training during the day and Exploring the Virtual Realm with us at night. I��m worried you might not hold up, so I��m trying to give you a break to rx.��


    ��I��m not that fragile!��


    ��Who was it that just activated the ��Sharpening Miracle�� and was ready to take on herpanions?��


    At that moment, Ashe noticed the Witch��s thoughtful expression and asked, ��Do you have any clues?��


    ��No, I was just recalling that the basic configuration of an adventure team in fairy tales is two males and one female, with many types of love triangles, but typically the second male sacrifices himself, and the first male and female live happily ever after���� Deya said: ��But we��re two females and one male, it doesn��t quite match up.��


    The fairy tales you read are too diverse��


    Ashe continued: ��Also, if there really was a civilization, then apart from the Resource Points, there should be remnants of the old civilization on the Time Continent, right?��


    Remnants!


    The eyes of both the Swordswoman and the Witch lit up.


    Whether in fairy tales or fantasy Shadow Dramas, the ssic storyline of a lucky individual finding the legacy of a Senior Sorcerer or the ruins of an ancient organization, thus embarking on the path of bing a Legend, is an evergreen plot. After all, the temptation of getting something for nothing is irresistible to everyone.


    Although the civilization of Sorcerers generally spirals upward, with new-era Sorcerers being stronger than those from the old era, resources for Sorcerers are timeless. A spirit from ten thousand years ago or gold and silver from the same period are still valuable today. Even ancient Factions have the potential to sprout anew. It��s only the mindset that bes outdated.


    Moreover, since the Virtual Realm itself contains ��Sorcerer Inheritance,�� it would hardly surprise anyone if there were remnants of Sorcerers at the bottom of the Sea of Knowledge, let alone on the Time Continent.


    Ashe looked at Sonya, who shook her head: ��I haven��t found any rted information. I can ask the Professor tomorrow, but don��t get your hopes up.��


    ��Why not? Did you finally get on the bad side of the Professor by being too arrogant?��


    Sonya red at him: ��You�� guessed right, halfway. But I haven��t been arrogant. The main issue is that I need to conceal my ventures into the Time Continent, so I can only inquire under the pretense of ��pre-studying�� with the Professor.��


    ��Besides, I feel that perhaps even the Professor doesn��t know much about the secrets of the Time Continent.��

 Chapter 238: Academy Faction vs. Adventurer Faction

    Chapter 238: Academy Faction vs. Adventurer Faction


    ��Why?�� Ashe expressed surprise. ��Isn��t your mentor a Tri-wings Sorcerer from the Sanctuary? How could she be unaware of matters concerning the Time Continent?��


    ��There are two reasons for this.��


    Sonya raised her index finger. ��First,pared to the volumes of information in the Sea of Knowledge, literature about the Time Continent only constitutes one-tenth. It��s not just because there are far fewer Two Wings Sorcerers than One Wing Sorcerers, but more importantly,pared to the Virtual Realm, Sorcerers ce a greater emphasis on the Faction Realm and are more inclined to create Silver codices and Gold tomes about how to advance within their Faction Realm.��


    ��For instance, in the library, the Swordsmanship Department��s books take up thirty shelves, epassing various fields like summoning different spirits,bat, production, and more. In contrast, books describing the Sea of Knowledge only fill two shelves, and those about the Time Continent are even fewer, merely a handful.��


    ��Sorcerers like us, who make gains in the Virtual Realm every night, are exceedingly rare, rare enough to be considered an exception. For the average Sorcerer, the Virtual Realm is merely a ce for absorbing arcane energy and honingbat skills. They don��t expect to gain anything extra in the Virtual Realm; instead, they acquire more spirits by advancing within the Faction Realm and through the trading tform, building a Spirit System that suits them.��


    ��As they ascend to higher levels of the Faction Realm, they climb to a higheryer of the Virtual Realm and then repeat the process. If it weren��t for the fact that eachyer of the Virtual Realm forces Sorcerers to explore and move around, many would be happy to stay in one ce, peacefully absorbing arcane energy every night.��


    ��Second,�� Sonya raised her middle finger, ��my mentor is a Genius. She left the Time Continent and reached the Distant Skies in just four years. She��s been living on campus for four years and still asionally forgets where her office is, let alone the Time Continent.��


    Ashe sighed, understanding the divide between Academy Faction and Adventurer Faction Sorcerers.


    Just as people who have enough to eat won��t rebel, and those who save in fixed deposits far outnumber those who specte in funds, Sorcerers naturally vote with their feet, finding their ownfort zone.It��s quite understandable, really. Rather than pin their hopes on the Virtual Realm, Sorcerers prefer to invest in themselves, at least that��s something they can control. For those in the Academy Faction, focusing on advancing in the Faction Realm requires both effort and Talent, but the progression is stable, and as long as one can elevate their Faction Realm, there are no bottlenecks. After all, a fool and a Genius absorb arcane energy with the same efficiency in the Virtual Realm.


    By contrast, no matter how well one does in the Virtual Realm, if there is no Breakthrough in the Faction Realm, one will still be marking time.


    If the Virtual Realm is seen as a fulcrum and the Faction Realm as a lever, then the Academy Faction is constantly reinforcing and extending their lever to pry more power from the Virtual Realm; whereas adventurers like Ashe are looking for a more suitable and effortless fulcrum, prying here and there, valuing serendipitous and inexplicable opportunities.


    Whether at the individual, organizational, or societal level, the Academy Faction is superior to the Adventurer Faction in all respects. The only downside to the prosperity of the Academy Faction is that it may lead to the neglect of the potential value of the Virtual Realm due to an excessive emphasis on the importance of the Faction Realm.


    After all, they are so busy advancing in the Faction Realm that they have no energy left to uncover the secrets of the Virtual Realm, much less organize rted information.


    Of course, this doesn��t mean that the two Factions are ipatible. The Swordswoman, for example, is currently bncing both the Academy Faction and the Adventurer Faction, and her progress is soaring. But for a Sorcerer civilization in development, they can only focus on the knowledge system of the Academy Faction, unable to illuminate the tech tree of the Adventurer Faction.


    It seems there��s no counting on Swordflower College; they can only rely on themselves to unearth the Treasures of the Time Continent.


    ��Speaking of which, I just remembered����


    ��What, you��ve got another fairy tale more thrilling than an adult story?��


    ��No.�� Deya shook her head and shared her discovery at the lumber mill��the fact that if the wood that didn��t deplete kept umting, the entire nest would be filled, but the quantity of wood in the factory was not much.


    Ashe pondered and said, ��Speaking of which, at the Resource Points we searched earlier, if all themon materials kept piling up, they should have been overflowing by now����


    ��Could it be that the overflowing Resource Points are blocked, and we simply can��t discover them? Only the ones that haven��t overflowed are found by us?�� Sonya pointed out a blind spot.


    ��The survivorship bias does make sense, but there��s another possibility.��


    Ashe said, ��That is, seemingly uselessmon materials are also being regrly collected.��


    Sonya shook her head, ��I haven��t heard of anyone other than you who can utilizemon materials.��


    ��That would mean, those who can use thosemon materials might not be Sorcerers����


    As they were talking, Ashe had already opened the Virtual Realm Map, ready to drive to the next Resource Point. But at that moment, he noticed an ubeled red dot on the edge of the Map.


    ��Wisdom is demonstrated by outnumbering the unknown presence.��


    An unknown presence means it��s not a Knowledge Creature, and the only entities that roam the Time Continent aside from Knowledge Creatures are Sorcerer Projections!


    ��It seems there��s a Sorcerer Projection taking a stroll ahead.��


    ��Run it over!�� ��Hit it!�� The Swordswoman and Witch expressed very dangerous suggestions.


    Asheplied smoothly, driving straight at it. Their favorite enemies now were the Sorcerer Projections wandering around because their car��s ��Evil de�� could directly hit and kill the other party without needing a Battle, easily earning the other��s spirit and Sorcerer Handbook. It wasn��t so much taking advantage as it was straight-up robbery.


    As the distance closed, Ashe saw more details on the Virtual Realm Map.


    Then he mmed on the brakes.


    ��Why did we stop?��


    Ashe rubbed his eyes, making sure he wasn��t misreading the prompt on the Map: ��Behind the Sorcerer Projection, there��s arge group of Serpent-Scorpion Dragons�� as well as some Thousand-Feathered Dragons! They seem to be moving in our direction!��


    ��Does everyone see that? (Some Thousand-Feathered Dragons)��


    ��The statement below is correct (A Group Serpent-Scorpion Dragons)��


    ��Wisdom is demonstrated by outnumbering the unknown presence (Unknown Existence)��


    A Sorcerer Projection moving with Gregarious Creatures?


    Sonya thought of a terrifying possibility: ��Quick, get out of the way, don��t block their path!��


    Ashe quickly steered the car to an adjacent Area and asked, ��How can there be a Sorcerer Projection mixed in with Knowledge Creatures? Are they bundling sales now?��


    Deya suggested, ��Or perhaps it��s just on their way?��


    ��No!�� Sonya shook her head emphatically. ��It��s not like that�� They��re a whole!��


    As they spoke, swift predators rolled across the earth like bulldozers, the moans of the bending grass and the low growls of the bowing trees wove into a catastrophic symphony of nature.


    Even with the Reverse Golden Rain providing cover, Ashe and hispanions could still clearly hear an armyposed of Knowledge Creatures marching unbridled beside them.


    The bodies of the Sorcerers were nearly stiff, as if afraid that their own movements would disturb the passing monsters.


    Ashe��s fingers hovered over the directional keys, eyes glued to the dots on the Map, ready to make a run for it at any moment.


    They all secretly Prayed in their hearts for this unknown legion to proceed to another ce for their gathering, hoping fervently not to draw the attention of this pitiful group of little wild creatures.


    While Ashe and his team could sweep through three Resource Points, they still needed to seize advantageous terrain when facing a horde of monsters, or even create narrow terrains to reduce the numerical advantage of the Gregarious Creatures, often resulting in the three of them ganging up on two creatures in a localized area.


    In other words, they actuallycked the ability to engage in groupbat.


    This was no nest or cave, and the Sorcerers couldn��t find any terrain to their advantage. If this Virtual Realm legion attacked them, they could only Pray that their four wheels were faster than the flying creatures.


    Only as the wailing of the trees faded away did they breathe a sigh of relief. Although one doesn��t sweat in the Virtual Realm, everyone felt a chill of evaporated fear.


    ��What was that?�� Ashe asked.


    ��I��ve never seen it before either,�� murmured Deya. ��Lucky it was the first time, or Little Red would have been doomed.��


    Red Death Eater: ��I just knew it would take a battle where death is certain to bring me fully into y.��


    ��That should be the second-ranked threat on the ��Time Continent Danger Ranking List.����


    Sonya whispered, ��They are the harbingers of death, the nightmare no Sorcerer wants to encounter, the Virtual Realm��s unrestrained malice towards outsiders����


    ��The heroic soul legion.��

 Chapter 239: Heroic Soul Legion

    Chapter 239: Heroic Soul Legion


    The Heroic Soul Legion is abination of Sorcerer Projections and Knowledge Creatures.


    No one knows why the Sorcerer Projections from the Time Continent mingle with Knowledge Creatures.


    Even the most adept Mind Sorcerers, who excel at envement, can only control one or two Knowledge Creatures for a brief period. Tomand arge group of Knowledge Creatures goes far beyond the capabilities of any Two Wings Sorcerer. It��s like asking a child to drive a heavy truck��it��s simply not feasible based on size alone. And if the truck does move, it��s not due to the child��s ability, but rather the truck��spliance.


    Many Sorcerers have indeed attempted to uncover the secret of how Sorcerer Projections control Knowledge Creatures. However, they are usually torn to shreds by the monster legion upon encounter. Forget research; they��re lucky if they even catch a glimpse of themanding Sorcerer Projection. Many Sorcerers die believing they have merely disrupted a family outing of Knowledge Creatures, oblivious that it was the dead who were marshaling an assault on the living.


    ��The Heroic Soul Legion is invincible on the Time Continent, or at least, it seems invincible to us,�� Sonya said. ��Not to mention the Heroic Spirits that serve asmanders, the Knowledge Creatures within the legion are incredibly difficult to handle. With themand of a Heroic Spirit, even the most enduring Berserker among Physical Sorcerers would be drained of arcane energy.��


    ��A Sorcerer is doubtless a force to be reckoned with, capable of taking on a hundred foes. But that only applies if a powerful Sorcerer faces a hundred weaker beings. Each creature in the Heroic Soul Legion possesses thebat power of a Two Wings Sorcerer; sheer numbers alone could overwhelm any traveler of the Time Continent. And with the Heroic Spirits directing them like extensions of their own limbs�� Compared to themand ability of a Heroic Spirit, the recent counterattack by the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon seems like child��s y.��


    ��Perhaps only a Sanctuary Sorcerer has the power to ovee the Heroic Soul Legion. But Sanctuary Sorcerers simply cannot step foot onto the Time Continent.��


    ��A Heroic Spirit?�� Ashe raised his eyebrows.


    ��In texts such as ��Tales of the Time Continent,�� ��Gold Secrets,�� and ��Veil of Rain,�� the authors refer to Sorcerer Projections that canmand Knowledge Creatures as Heroic Spirits, to distinguish them from the moremon Sorcerer Projections. It appears to have be a widely epted term.��Sonya watched the heroic soul legion disappear into the distance, ��The heroic soul legion is a rtively rare presence on the Time Continent. Although most Two Wings Sorcerers will witness the legion once or twice, encountering this doom that walks the earth the very next day, are we lucky or not?��


    ��Is this really just the second most dangerous existence?�� Ashe blinked, ��What��s ranked first then? Sanctuary Sorcerersing back to the Time Continent for easy pickings?��


    ��The most dangerous, of course, is a battle between heroic soul legions,�� Sonya exined. ��It��s said that even the aftermath of their battles can ssh across the veil of rain and kill a group of Sorcerers. There��s a saying on the Time Continent: Never chase the sounds of battle, for you are always the innocent third party that gets affected.��


    ��I remember the heroic soul legion being mentioned in fairy tales I��ve read,�� Deya recalled. ��A Sorcerer, betrayed by enemies and stripped of their lover, after death, their obsession remained. With the help of seven dragons, they formed a heroic soul legion to return to reality, vanquish their enemies, and after a final kiss with their lover, rested in peace����


    ��The structure fits a fairy tale, but the origin is a bit too real���� Ashemented. ��I��d give it an 8 out of 10.��


    ��Let��s save the fairy tale convention for when we��re further away, the heroic soul legion mighte back,�� Sonya urged. ��Let��s get moving, or if the heroic soul legion kills us, we��re done for. Even with a soul special drink, we��ll be down for a month.��


    Just as dying in the den of Gregarious Creatures results in more soul loss, the Knowledge Creatures in the heroic soul legion naturally all want a taste of the rare delicacy that is a Sorcerer��s soul. And after a Sorcerer dies, their soul is defenseless, if consumedpletely it leads to true death. But since each Knowledge Creature can only take one bite, the more there are around at the time of death, the greater the loss of soul.


    However, unless some Taboo is triggered, such as Eviction Secret Poison, creatures of the Virtual Realm generally don��t consume a Sorcerer��s entire soul. Much like not cutting the roots when harvesting leeks, they let Sorcerers recuperate in reality, to return another time.


    However, Ashe fell into contemtion: ��Since no one has ever defeated the heroic soul legion, why is it assumed that theirmander is a Sorcerer Projection? Perhaps some other Sorcerer has vited a mechanism of the Virtual Realm and thus gained the ability to control Knowledge Creatures.��


    ��Shouldn��t there be some Prophecy conducted by a Sorcerer to gather intelligence?�� Sonya was also not sure: ��But if it��s not the heroic souls being controlled, then when a Sorcerer leaves the Time Continent for the Distant Skies, they should be able to continue enving Knowledge Creatures, right? However, I��ve never heard a Professor mention anything simr happening in the Distant Skies.��


    ��Even in the Distant Skies, there is no Sorcerer who can marshal Knowledge Creatures into legions to conquer in all directions, not even the heroic soul legion�� The heroic soul legion is a unique product of the Time Continent, just like the Whirlpool is a boon of the Sea of Knowledge.��


    ��And whether themander is a Sorcerer or a heroic soul really doesn��t matter, the point is we need to hurry�� You��re not getting any improper ideas, are you?��


    ��Don��t make me sound like a Captain with ulterior motives toward a female team member.��


    Ashe revealed a mischievous smile: ��I��m just interested in trying a more challenging task.��


    I��d rather you have ulterior motives towards a female team member��


    Sonya struggled to suppress her urge to curse and logically analyzed with Ashe: ��Let��s not talk about whether we can defeat the heroic soul legion or not, the question is, what��s the benefit?��


    ��The challenge posed by the heroic soul legion is greater than that of a Resource Point, but the rewards are less, the cost-performance ratio is too low. If you��re just looking to tackle a higher difficulty, then next time you can join me in closebat, with the Witch backing us up.��


    ��We can all join in closebat too,�� Deya protested, not endorsing Ashe��s idea and evidently agreeing with Sonya��s rebuttal.


    ��Perhaps the heroic soul legion might drop a more precious spirit or a more detailed Sorcerer Handbook? The Virtual Realm is a fair and impartial judge, I believe that after defeating the heroic soul legion, the Virtual Realm definitely won��t skimp on the rewards we deserve.�� Ashe said: ��Moreover, I always feel that there must be some great secret behind the heroic soul legion, perhaps rted to the Rainbow Tail.��


    ��My dear Swordswoman Miss, if you��re willing to work overtime to elevate the Swordsmanship Faction to Sanctuary-Level, I might even give up the idea of adventuring.��


    Sonya replied with irritation: ��Didn��t we find the secret of the Golden Fish without much adventuring?��


    ��But that was based on our lucky encounter with Destiny��s Inquiry ind, as well as several important Sorcerer Handbooks we consulted.�� Ashe spread his hands: ��Fortune doesn��t always favor us��not to mention I��ve had a bit of bad luck recently, and at crucial times Fortune might secretly curse me.��


    ��Why are we able to find the Rainbow Tail that other Sorcerers can��t? Is it because you��re good-looking, or because of my superior driving skills?��


    ��We take risks that ordinary Sorcerers won��t take; we seize opportunities that ordinary Sorcerers won��t touch; we fight enemies that ordinary Sorcerers won��t battle. Only by doing so can we earn rewards beyond those of ordinary Sorcerers.��


    Although it felt like the Observer was spouting nonsense, on second thought, it made a lot of sense.


    Sonya was not unaware of the logic that ��more adventure brings more gain,�� but now she is the typical representative of the Academy Faction, advocating stable returns and disliking risky investments.


    Especially after her Promotion to Two Wings, this cautious, petty-bourgeois mentality did not weaken but instead became more entrenched. She was solely focused on maintaining her existing benefits.


    It��s not to say that her greed is merely superficial; it��s just that her world is too small��surrounded by ssmates who can��t match up to her, the only stronger figure she can interact with is Professor Trozan, who might be jealous of her talent. She is regarded by many as a future Sword saint, with Nobles eager to get close to her enough to crowd a female dormitory. Swordflower Academy is poised to take pride in her��


    She has already exceeded her life goals for the next Twenty Years ahead of schedule, feeling like she could retire to enjoy life and pursue her dreams��in fact, she��s already secretly switched her daytime sses to Sound Magic and performance arts, and the actual time she spends practicing swordsmanship is just the two hours scheduled by the Observer.


    Her progress has been too swift, and her ambition can��t keep up.


    ��I agree with the Observer��s idea,�� Deya raised her hand and said. ��To be a fairy tale, we must take the road less traveled. A life that never changes will only be summarized by ��many yearster.����


    Sonya asked, ��Witch, you want to be a legend Sorcerer?��


    ��Actually, it��s Little Red and the White Queen who want that, I��m not that interested in power,�� Deya said earnestly. ��Little Red longs for higher levels of Battle, while the White Queen wants to gain more leverage through power�� But since we��re sisters, their dreams are naturally mine too!��


    ��And what is your dream?�� Ashe asked abruptly.


    ��Me? I���� Deya paused slightly, tilting her head and then said, ��Of course, it��s to live happily ever after with my sisters.��


    ��That sounds even more difficult than bing a legend.��


    ��Indeed.��


    The two dirty adults mercilessly tore apart the naive girl��s pure dreams.


    ��Alright, I��ll gamble with you,�� Sonya sighed helplessly. ��But the second questiones��can we win? In openbat, I don��t think we stand a chance.��


    ��We can win,�� Ashe said, looking at the Virtual Realm map. ��Because they��ve entered a narrow area��they went into the cave we just scavenged.��


    Sonya was startled. ��Are they rtives with the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon?��


    ��Maybe it��s an employment rtionship, but the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon being stationed here to guard the Resource Point might be an unlistedbor dispatch.��


    On the Virtual Realm map, the heroic soul legion��s icons were moving into the cave that was once their of the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon. Clearly, among the loot that Ashe and his group had taken was something belonging to the heroic soul legion.


    ��But even in their, there are too many of them,�� Deya pondered. ��Can we repeat the trick and block the cave entrance to deal with them?��


    Ashe shook his head and waved his hand, doubly negating Deya��s idea. ��The risk is too great. If something goes wrong, we won��t even be able to run, we��d be doomed to die in the jaws of the beast.��


    ��We are up against the heroic soul legion, the risk is as high as eating some unknown, brightly colored mushrooms. And you still think about running away?�� Sonya couldn��t help but tease Ashe, who seemed to have a ��breeze-through�� mentality: ��The world doesn��t work that easily.��


    ��It does,�� Ashe asserted confidently. ��I have a n that can defeat the heroic soul legion and allow us to escape at a moment��s notice.��


    The thought barely formed in Sonya��s mind��Is he suggesting we two fight while one stays in the car ready to flee?��when she realized the essence of Ashe��s n.


    ��The Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon��sir is quite spacious; it should amodate a sports car as a guest. Even the Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon, if aware, would appreciate us holding a grand Ritual of remembrance atop its grave.��


    Ashe pulled up the upgrade schematics for the vehicle, his eyes scanning over the list of peripherals that could be activated. ��Originally, these resources were intended to upgrade the Alchemical Throne, but when it��s time to use them, then����


    ��It��s time to showcase my driving skills that took me three tries to get a license!��

 Chapter 240: The Toll of Hell

    Chapter 240: The Toll of Hell


    Star Shepherd Demilo, mounted on the Serpent-Scorpion Dragon, directed the Legion to orderly enter Cavern 73, the Compound Resource Point.


    Upon reaching the entrance, there was still no sign of the Fierce Wolf Dragon; it must have already been raided.


    Was it a passing Sorcerer, or a Crystal Flying Dragon wandering nearby?


    Either was possible. After all, the troops sent to guard the Resource Point were doomed to be expendable items on the reimbursement list�� How many Serpent-Scorpion Dragons should be left behind to guard this ce?


    Seemingly aware of the impending personnel shift, the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons grew restless, while the Thousand-Feathered Dragons stood on one leg in Rest, utterly unconcerned, even leisurely preening each other��s feathers��As the only long-range support unit under Demilo��smand, they naturally enjoyed treatment akin to that of lovers.


    Arriving at the main hall of the Cavern, Demilo waved his hand, signaling the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons to move supplies.


    The clever creatures sensed that their performance in the uing task would determine whether their futurey rotting in this Cavern or continuing to indulge in the luxuries alongside the Star Shepherd. Their morale soared as they searched the Cavern with their scorpion tails held high.


    Demilo could clearly feel his followers�� shift in emotions but remained indifferent, gesturing for his mount to sit down. The Serpent-Scorpion Dragon obediently lowered its body, its tail bending into an arc worthy of a roller coaster track, the tip resting just upon its back, serving as Demilo��s pillow.


    Demilo closed his eyes, thumbing through his memory album for a diversion. Yet, his gaze returned again and again to a dream he had browsed thousands of times and seemed destined to revisit in the future.It was when Demilo was 13 years old, the most tragic moment of his life.


    Born into the Leba Family, this surname meant nothing, for the family had been exterminated when he was 11 years old due to his uncle��s corruption and embezzlement, and his parents were implicated. In that era, the Nobility and the crown yed a game akin to cat and mouse, a race between the speed of embezzlement and the swiftness of capture.


    Young Demilo narrowly escaped to the maid��s house to avoid legal sanctions, then smoothly transitioned from a Noble young master to an orphan taken in by the maid, living in the dirtiest, narrowest storage room. He quickly became sensible, eating less, working more, keeping his head down, and in two years, he endured double the hardships of the previous Ten Years.


    Clearly, Destiny is a harsh loan shark, and double was just the interest. At the age of 13, the maid said she had found a suitable Apprentice job for him and had two men, who looked much like cksmiths, take him away to the locally infamous ��Dove Fish Cage.��


    Which was a ce for buying pleasures.


    Male workers were called doves, and female workers were called grass carp. At that time, Demilo did not understand the origin of these titles, but he soon learned.


    When the ill-intentioned gang boss revealed the truth to Demilo, he did not react with fear or any other emotion, but calmly epted the fact. Perhaps when he heard the increasingints from the maid and her husband, and saw the husband��s malicious face and the maid��s apologetic eyes, he anticipated that Destiny was ready to collect his principal.


    As a fugitive wanted criminal, he had the freedom to choose to agree or to die.


    The gang boss also told him about the scope of his uing work: As a boy with a hint of beauty, besides selling his body, he could also gather intelligence, assassinate important figures, frame others, and if lucky, might be bought by a Wealthy person enamored with his beauty�� Obviously, working overtime was the norm here, and now, even if the Police Department caught him, he could no longer im innocence.


    With the aspiration to survive and be someone��s bed ware, the troubled teenage boy walked into one of the top floor rooms of the Dove Fish Cage, which was the staff dormitory.


    The walls were a warm yellow, with a firece crackling, several tasteless burgundy patchwork sofas, and a low table carelessly littered with snacks and drinks. Because it was the highest floor, the warm light of the Radiant Star shone unreservedly through the balcony��s floor-to-ceiling windows, providing a stage for the dancing dust.


    But the floor was clean, likely swept often.


    Compared to the storage room, the living conditions had leaped forward; at least he wouldn��t wake up in the middle of the night due to mice visiting.


    ��Hey, your skin is so white!�� A tall and buxom girl approached Demilo, reaching out to touch the precious legacy left by his Noble life over the previous Ten Years: ��So smooth and tender, wow����


    ��Is there finally a new guy?�� Another cute young boy who seemed even younger than Demilo jumped up, clenching his fists with excitement: ��Am I finally going to be a Senior?��


    ��No, you seem to still be the youngest one.�� Sitting far away on the sofa, the Quiet Girl put down her book, ��Drink more milk to grow tall and big quickly.��


    Demilo nced over and saw that the Quiet Girl��s book had no text, only pages filled with images that set the Bloodline racing�� Still studying diligently after work?


    The cute boy made a face: ��But milk is so fishy����


    ��Ah, I forgot!��


    The balcony door was pushed open, and a Pretty Person who looked as exquisite as a sculpture walked into the room. He wore a loose shirt and extremely short shorts, carrying a tray of freshly airedundry, exuding a domestic vibe yet incredibly seductive.


    The warm orange light clung to him greedily, casting a divine glow upon him.


    Was he a man? Or a woman? Gender seemed to lose its meaning at that moment.


    ��The boss only told us this morning that a new person would being to the dormitory. Everyone was still half asleep, and we didn��t have time to prepare food. But we don��t start work until the evening, so how about we have a wee party this afternoon?��


    ��Is that something to celebrate?�� The Quiet Girl voiced the question that was also on Demilo��s mind.


    ��Yay, a party!�� The tall girl and the cute boy cheered in unison.


    ��Do we have mixed-gender living arrangements here?�� Demilo asked his first question aftering in.


    ��Yeah, the boss said it��s troublesome to have all men or all women, but mixed living means we can keep an eye on each other, at least there��s less nonsense�� He also said it��s his secret to management!��


    But the risk of mixed living is�� right, they don��t care about that risk here.


    ��Then, it��s time to move on to the next step!�� The Pretty Person casually set down theundry basin: ��Let me help you pick a nice and suitable new name for the neer!��


    ��Here we go again���� The other three let out resigned sighs.


    ��It��s indeed time to adopt a new name to sever ties with the past.�� Demilo nodded: ��After all����


    Pretty Person shook their head with a smile, ��No, a new name isn��t about discarding the past; it��s about embracing the future. Consider this: our first names weren��t chosen by us, yet they��re meant to follow us for life. How unreasonable is that? Choosing a new name signifies taking control of our future, saying goodbye to a Destiny that doesn��t serve us.��


    Had Demilo not been in the Dove Fish Cage staff dormitory when hearing this, he might have nodded in agreement.


    ��So you��re willing to let me name you?��


    ��Go ahead.��


    ��Great!�� Pretty Person pulled out a frequently thumbed, crumbly-paged book from the bookshelf.


    ��What book is that?�� Demilo asked.


    ��The Stars Poetry Collection,�� Pretty Person replied. ��A poet has named every star in the sky, giving each a significant meaning. What better reference for a name could there be?��


    ��Every single one�� isn��t that thousands?��


    ��More than that! So there��s a good name for everyone. For example, Anlilian, which means the fragrance of ink on a page.��


    Quiet Girl tilted her head thoughtfully.


    ��Or Ruya, meaning the joy of sunshine.��


    The cute boy looked up, his whole being radiating warmth even without the touch of the sun.


    ��Or Cilina, symbolizing a rainbow butterfly.��


    The tall girl spun on her toes, her skirt twirling, embodying the name she was given.


    ��And then�� ah, this is it, Demilo! From now on, you��ll be called Demilo,�� Pretty Person decided someone��s lifelong moniker rather hastily.


    ��Does it have a meaning?��


    ��Demilo,�� Pretty Person said with a smile, ��symbolizes the rock in the Rapids. It represents that you will never be knocked down by Destiny.��


    ��What about you? What��s your name?��


    Anlilian, Ruya, and Cilina all wore an expression that said, ��It��s finally happening.��


    ��And me? I��m something special!��


    Pretty Person leapt onto the sofa, striking an audacious pose as if about to transform: ��The ��Vloz�� that represents dominion, and the ��rada�� that signifies conquest; my name is Vlozrada, meaning to master Destiny and conquer all!��


    It was a level of silliness beyond description. Demilo exchanged nces with the other three, a silent consensus reached among strangers meeting for the first time.


    ��In any case.��


    Pretty Person came over, hugging Demilo closely with a giggle: ��Demilo, wee.��


    Two years had passed since Demilost felt the warmth of an embrace, the face that had been numbed by relentless torment from Destiny softened for the first time.


    Destiny had stripped him of all his capital, yet paradoxically granted him a loan despite his negative credit.


    This was Demilo��s first encounter with Vlozrada, and it would be the most pivotal moment in his life.


    Hiss, hiss, hiss��


    The sound of the Serpent-Scorpion Dragon scraping against the ground interrupted Demilo��s dream. He opened his eyes to find his right hand raised, as if trying to hold onto some ethereal substance.


    Soon, he thought, he would understand the emotions that once eluded him.


    He was about to reim the beat of his heart.


    Demilo touched his chest, finding it empty, devoid of anything.


    This was the toll for transmigrating through the Sixfold Hell; every Soul must wash away all emotions there, leaving only pure memories to reach the Virtual Realm. Those like him, ��activated�� by the Divine Master, were merely deficient lives born from those memories.


    Having never possessed a body, they naturallycked a heartbeat, much less emotions.


    Even if he poured over his memories countless times, he could not experience Demilo��s true feelings. It was like using a finger to pick someone else��s nose, incapable of feeling real joy.


    Between him and his memoriesy the Curtain of death.


    The only solution was to retrieve the fragments left in Hell, to fill the gaps in his Soul, to make the decayed heart beat once more.


    And such a Miracle, without a doubt, could only be performed by the Divine Master, which is why from the moment of his creation, he had fought for the Divine Master across thends.


    Sixfold Hell, six fragments, his umted Merit was nearly enough to exchange for the first fragment. He estimated that he would soon begin to understand why Demilo so greatly valued his first encounter with Vlozrada.


    Soon, very soon, a few more decades and it would be time. After all, more than a thousand years had already passed��


    Demilo turned his head and saw that the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons seemed to be contemting rebellion��not a single ordinary resource had been moved; what audacity.


    But something was off.


    It was then that the Star Shepherd finally focused and surveyed the surroundings, noticing a thinyer of powder covering the ground, while not a trace of any materials could be seen around the cave. Moreover, with theplete disappearance of the Fierce Wolf Dragon family, there was only one possibility��the materials had been moved.


    Had an enemy Legion stealthily swept in to raid? But this was the hearnd of their Star Hall. Wouldn��t the enemy Legion fear annihtion after such a long incursion? Or was this the prelude to a major invasion?


    The closest hostile force was�� Blood Tomb!


    Could it be those irritating lunatics from Blood Tomb? Demilo had previously dealt with the tomb keepers during the two previous six-nation wars. Even though everyone was a fragmented Soul, for some reason, the tomb keepers seemed to be missing a few screws in their heads, not to mention those ghoul troops from Blood Tomb that seemed as if they were fermented in a Sewer��


    Vroom, vroom, vroom!


    Suddenly, a thunderous roar of steel, unheard before, came from the cave entrance. Demilo turned to see a steel monstrosity charging like a storm, its sharp des slicing through the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons�� armor as if through warm butter, crushing their rudimentary defense line in an instant and barreling towards Demilo!


    Thousand-Feathered Dragons, volley fire!


    With a single thought from Demilo, the Thousand-Feathered Dragons took to the sky, their densely packed feather arrows preemptively shot towards the empty ground in front of Demilo. Filled with ��piercing�� spirits, each volley was capable of annihting arge number of Knowledge Creatures!


    However, the steel beast suddenly braked hard, the brake pads emitting a whining sound, releasing a fragrance akin to tar. The strong inertia drew an arc like a doughnut, stopping just short of the rain of arrows.


    Only a few sparse feather arrowsnded on it, but they were also blocked by a transparent protective barrier, guarding the maniptor inside the beast.


    Serpent-Scorpion Dragons quickly formed a defensive line in front of Demilo; the most important aspect of Legionbat is to protect themander.


    The Star Shepherd observed the three individuals inside the steel monster, and in the moment their gazes met, both parties recognized each other��s identities.


    A Sorcerer, perhaps�� So is this steel monster a product of a Miracle? Mechanical Department? Alchemy Department? It could also be Biology Department, maybe it��s a vehicle modified from a ying Fish-Dragon��


    Many thoughts surfaced in Demilo��s mind, but they did not hinder hismand. With a single thought, Serpent-Scorpion Dragons and Thousand-Feathered Dragons formed an assault from all directions, like a surging wave, attacking the three misguided Sorcerers.


    He had no desire to engage in conversation with juniors.


    Even if the other party was a seeker of the Virtual Realm like himself, and even though the Divine Master did not impose any Restrictions onmunication, Demilo still had no interest in uttering a single word to those born a thousand yearster. Even though he knew that revealing even a hint of the secrets of the heroic soul would cause a huge stir in reality.


    The only desire of the heroic soul is toplete its fragmentary self. Beyond that, it seeks nothing else.


    As for the reality above Hell, heroic souls treat it as if it were an ex-lover they��ve blocked and deleted from their lives, sparing none of their thoughts. No expectations, no hatred, only indifference; they do not care how the world they once lived in has changed.


    Go back to where you belong, living ones.


    Facing the oing tide of monstrous forces, the steel beast roared again, extending five pipes from its rear. Explosive sounds emanated from within, and the pipes spewed a venomous green gas that almost threatened to submerge the entire cave in an instant!


    Facing the car��s exhaust, Demilo was sprayed directly in the face, his hair blown back!


    Buzz��Buzz��Buzz��


    Amid the heavy roar of the steel monster, a phrase in the clear and propernguage of Sorcerers mingled through: ��Ah, the feeling of farting and then running away is truly exhrating~��


    A thousand years after awakening from eternal slumber, this was the first human speech that Demilo heard.

 Chapter 241: Poison Fog Surge and Refractive Barrier

    Chapter 241: Poison Fog Surge and Refractive Barrier


    ��Run quickly, run!��


    Within the confines of the racing car barrier, unlike Ashe who still had the energy to provoke their pursuers, Sonya and Deya gripped the front-row seated Ashe��s shoulders, urging the driver in hushed tones to flee, their legs going weak with fear.


    They had no choice but to be afraid!


    Before them were more than twenty Growth Stage Serpent-Scorpion Dragons and eight Growth Stage Thousand-Feathered Dragons. These were not your ordinary Gregarious Creatures; they were Large Creatures on par with Two Wings sorcerers, each capable of taking on a Sonya on its own!


    Particrly the Thousand-Feathered Dragons, capable of aerial maneuvers and excelling in long-rangebat while in flight. They even used Reverse Golden Rain to obscure their forms, ranking them as dangerous foes to be highly cautious of on the Time Continent��s Knowledge Creature Ranking List.


    Sonya still remembered the strategies mentioned in ��Time Continent Survival Tips�� for dealing with Thousand-Feathered Dragons: ��Kneel on the ground, stick your rear in the air, cover your head to protect your vitals, and curl up as much as possible.��


    ��This way, there��s a high chance only your rear will take damage, and even in death, you��ll only lose the soul of your buttocks. Aside from feeling a bit empty when going to the bathroom, it won��t much affect your daily life.��


    These annotations, left by Senior Brothers and Senior Sisters in the library book, were highly regarded by everyone. They even shared numerous tips on the proper way to stick one��s rear out.


    While it might have lookedical, Sonya did notugh when reading them butmitted them to memory instead. These shared notes were the crystallization of sorcerers�� wisdom, and if the Seniors found out that their hard-earned experiences were being scorned and mocked by juniors, they would undoubtedly be pleased �� any sorcerer who disrespected knowledge deserved to pay a hefty price.If a Two Wings sorcerer couldn��t defeat a Thousand-Feathered Dragon, then that was that; it was normal. All sorcerers had their strengths and weaknesses, just like a Physical Sorcerer could counter any closebat physical enemy but was also vulnerable to ranged enemies adept at inflicting negative curse damage. Even the most talented and versatile sorcerers could encounter Virtual Realm creatures beyond their ability to handle.


    Even a Legendary sorcerer had vulnerabilities they couldn��t cover.


    As a sorcerer, it is essential to have the heart topensate for weaknesses, but it is equally important to learn risk management. Even Ashe and Sonya, who yed the system like cheats, couldn��t escape death, much less others. Deya spent two years before she could step onto the Time Continent, not because of any restrictions by the Faction Realm.


    If it could reduce the loss from death, no one would mind presenting their backsides, or even, if necessary, doing a handstand to relieve themselves.


    Death in the Virtual Realm is just a part of life; no sorcerer would swear to eliminate every ying Fish-Dragon in existence just because they lost their First Blood, nor is there a ��ying Fish-Dragon Protection Association�� out to hunt Ashe for specifically targeting ying Fish-Dragons to burst their Swordsmanship Orbs.


    ��The Virtual Realm is a mad ce. Sorcerers against sorcerers, sorcerers against Knowledge Creatures, Knowledge Creatures against each other; all beings inside are killing one another, yet there is no hatred among them. Everyone is greedy for life yet also embracing death.�� �� Forest Library Second Floor Virtual Realm Reading Room Famous Quotes.


    That is why the Swordswoman and the Witch were so scared.


    They were not cowards; just half an hour ago, they were braver than Ashe when killing a Giant Fierce Wolf Dragon. It wasn��t death they feared, but the significant loss that came with it!


    If they died here, the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons and the Thousand-Feathered Dragons would nibble away at their souls. In reality, their bodies would be paralyzed and clock out; it might take months before they could re-enter the Virtual Realm.


    Even in death, one should aim to die far away, to be bitten by fewer Knowledge Creatures!


    ��Don��t panic.��


    The roar of the giant beasts was already close at hand, and the protective barrier began to tick with crisp sounds; the energy slot of the barrier was rapidly depleting, and danger seemed to be about to chew them all up in the next second.


    However, Ashe felt no fear, and of course, there was no excitement, only the calmness like that of watching a documentary.


    During these two days of battle, he would asionally enter this ��confused by homework�� weird state, something that had never happened before. Ashe suspected that maybe the Time Continent was not quite in tune with him.


    But in this special observational state, Ashe could notice many details that he usually wouldn��t pay attention to, and even like a seasoned movie-goer who had watched thousands of bad films, he could urately estimate the enemy��s next move in the plot.


    The past two days of battle had not been smooth sailing. The trio, having just entered the new Map, were novices, and team coordination in battles required some polishing. It was precisely because Ashe had nearly every time entered this special state that he could protect them with the ��Sword Barrier�� just in the nick of time, allowing everyone to get through the initial adjustment period without any mishaps.


    The Swordswoman and the Witch certainly noticed his exquisite maneuvers, but they themselves had plenty of perfect micro-operations in battle and naturally wouldn��t pay extra attention to Ashe��s dazzling skills. At most, they would nod in appreciation, even thinking that this was the level that an Observer should have; and Ashe himself thought it was just an asional stroke of brilliance. He was past the age of getting excited over a pentakill in LoL and naturally wouldn��t show off intentionally.


    But this time, the stroke of brilliance�� seemed tost a little too long?


    ��The show is about to begin,�� Ashe said calmly as he operated the virtual controls. The sports car performed a frenzied dance in ce, spinning like a top and crashing into the group of Serpent-Scorpion Dragons to the left!


    Deya let out a scream, her hair mostly turning red, obviously having Little Red take over; Sonya was almost biting her lip, suppressing the panic in her throat, her hands gripping tight to the Observer��s trench coat�� Huh?


    Was it the reflection of the Witch��s hair, or the distortion of vision caused by the spinning, or perhaps��


    Did the Observer��s deep red gradient trench coat really start to glow with a breathing light effect?


    Boom!


    The Evil de perfectly sliced the Serpent-Scorpion Dragon in half, the sports car exerted all its might to grip the ground and spin back, the tires drawing a crescent moon, perfectly avoiding the arrow rain that followed, and then roaring as it collided with the oing Serpent-Scorpion Dragon troops!


    Boom! Crack! Boom! Crack!


    The remnants of the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons flew over the protective barrier, and the dark red blood sprayed over the car like watering flowers. Due to the transparent barrier, the blood was suspended in mid-air, and only Sonya and Deya, looking up, could see the beautiful spectacle of blossoming blood flowers.


    But behind the curtain of blood was a dark green poisonous fog thick enough to obscure vision!


    Thud! Thud!


    At that moment, the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons finally caught up with the sports car, their sharp stingers, stone-crushing ws, and dangerous serpentine kisses all striking at the sports car simultaneously. The barrier let out a sound of being overwhelmed, threatening to shatter like an eggshell at any moment!


    But just then, a piercing scream echoed from above the cave!


    ��Chirp����


    The Thousand-Feathered Dragons screeched as they plummeted, bing the first victims of the Poison Fog Surge!


    With the tactical objective fully aplished, Ashe maneuvered the sports car to speed away, escaping the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons and safely exiting the cave just before the barrier could shatter!


    This was their trump card in daring to challenge the heroic soul legion��the ��Poison Fog Surge�� and ��Refractive Barrier��!


    ��Refractive Barrier Level 6: The vehicle is enveloped in a barrier with 4000 health points, reducing all damage to the barrier by 32%.


    Level 6 special effect: An additional reduction of 30% for long-range attacks (32+30=62%).


    Next level requires 630 Ore Essence/630 Wood Essence/315 Mercury Essence.��


    ��Poison Fog Surge Level 4: The exhaust pipe releases a toxic fog dense enough to corrode souls, obscuring vision while Operators inside the vehicle remain unaffected.


    Next level requires 600 Mercury Essence/300 Wood Essence.��


    To upgrade these two car peripherals, nearly all the resources umted over the past two days had been exhausted, but it was all worth it��without the Refractive Barrier, they would have been easy targets for the Thousand-Feathered Dragons, and without Poison Fog Surge, they would have had no way to deal with such arge group of Knowledge Creatures!


    Why was Ashe insistent on taking this gamble? Because he realized that if they missed this opportunity, they might never get another chance to unveil the mysteries of the heroic soul legion��the legion had just entered a cave that greatly restricted spatial areas, and he just happened to have the resources to upgrade the barrier and the poison!


    All elements were indispensable: it had to be in the cave, there had to be a barrier and poison fog, and both groups of Knowledge Creatures, the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons and the Thousand-Feathered Dragons,cked the means to stop the movement. Then, everything unfolded ording to Ashe��s n, fitting together as seamlessly as an original, perfect puzzle, creating a scene akin to a miracle.


    ��They had managed to trap and poison the heroic soul legion within the cave!


    At that moment, Sonya, seemingly dislodged by the movement of the car or something else, found herself sitting in the front seat, tightly clutching Ashe��s right arm and looking around the cave with a shaken expression, ��Are they, are they all dead?��


    ��Not yet.�� Ashe nced at the Virtual Realm map: ��Thousand-Feathered Dragons should be all gone, but half of the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons are still there.��


    ��Then we should run quickly! They��re going to catch up!��


    ��No, we should block them in the cave and fight to the death!��


    The Witch��s voice seemed like a duet as both Ashe and Sonya turned their heads to see her inexplicably in the front row as well. Luckily, the car was spacious enough that even with Ashe in the middle, it didn��t feel cramped.


    The Witch��s hair was particrly striking at the moment, a gradient from ck to red.


    Each Witch sister had her unique hair color: the Secret Princess had shiny ck, the ck Butler had light purple, the White Queen had pure white, the Red Death Eater had blood red�� When their hair showed a pure color, it indicated a single dominant personality; when it disyed multiple colors with clear separation, it signaled one primary personality with several sub-personalities assisting.


    However, this gradient was something Ashe and hispanion had never seen before.


    It looked as if different pigments had been directly mixed together.


    But with the urgency of the situation, no one was in the mood to ponder over whattest dyeing technology the Witch might have used. Ashe pressed a virtual button, and the sports car fiercely gripped the ground as it spun, emitting a heart-wrenching scream, its front end once again targeting the cave.


    ��We��re not running away, nor are we blocking the entrance.��


    Buzz!


    With a strong thrust, the sports car charged back into the cave, engaging in a French wet kiss with a Serpent-Scorpion Dragon that was just making its way out!


    As the car��s des bisected the Serpent-Scorpion Dragon, the others, shrouded in poison fog, struck back swiftly, causing the overworked Refractive Barrier, on its first day on the job, to tragically expire on the spot!


    The protective screen shattered!


    Sonya, while holding onto Ashe��s hand, also touched the hilt of her sword; Deya was tensed, her hands pulling out water thread, seemingly ready to leap out and face the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons head-on at any moment.


    ��Don��t leave the car.��


    Ashe��s voice was calm, as the sports car was about to return to the cave shrouded in poison fog. He leaned against the leather backrest, looking up to the left.


    At the same time, Demilo, driving a Serpent-Scorpion Dragon, emerged from the poisonous fog. He slightly tilted his head, locking eyes with Ashe.


    One was the calm of pitch-ck still water, the other a tranquilke reflecting a myriad of scenes.


    ��The second round is about to begin.��

 Chapter 242: The True Soldier

    Chapter 242: The True Soldier


    Thinking to use the poison fog��s advantage of the cave to whittle down my minions��


    Demilo watched the steel monster burrow into the dark green manure pit, its buzzing roar as if urging him to hurry in.


    To enter or not?


    It seemed a no-brainer��venturing into tactical terrainid out by others was foolish, and besides, there was no imperative to battle the sorcerers. Moreover, if he truly needed to engage inbat amidst the poison fog, he would have to use some of his precious ��soldiers.��


    The Divine Master had given no instructions regarding heroic souls; in fact, unless in times of war, heroic souls were free. But to umte enough merit for soul fragment exchanges, even during peaceful development, they would patrol their territory and transport materials actively. Like Demilo, who had mobilized this round specifically to transport resources from the surrounding areas back to the Main City.


    Thus, Demilo could ignore these arrogant sorcerers and walk away; he was free to do as he pleased.


    And that��s why he was somewhat perplexed.


    In the past thousand years, he had never encountered a moment requiring his decision. During wartime, the Divine Master��s edicts were clear; in peace, he methodically managed the Main City, weighing the possibility of victory against enemy legions, deciding whether to fight or flee. When encountering ordinary sorcerers, it was a matter of simply crushing them and moving on.


    He had encountered many sorcerers; some happened to be crushed by the Star Shepherds incidentally on their march, others fled swiftly. As long as they survived the first wave of long-range attacks from the legion, Demilo would not pursue them specifically.But this situation was unprecedented.


    He had encountered sorcerers, yet not only had he failed to crush them, but they had also significantly reduced his minions. The sorcerers were not fleeing; they roamed under his watchful eye, yet he could not easily squash them.


    Though without evidence, Demilo believed that the cleanliness of the cave��s resource point suggested these sorcerers couldn��t be uninvolved.


    Benefits, losses, battle, departure�� various thoughts surged, but in the end, without any precedent to refer to, the decision was left to Demilo.


    He had to follow his own heart.


    For a Corpse without a heartbeat, it was indeed a cruel joke.


    Yet, when Demilo turned back to gaze at the cave without immediately choosing to leave, he had already made his decision.


    Anger? Jealousy? Curiosity? Demilo, devoid of even a fragment of a Soul, didn��t believe he was capable of harboring such emotions. Nevertheless, the scales of thought had decidedly tipped in favor of confronting the Sorcerers.


    If there had to be a reason, it would be the gaze of the male Sorcerer. That look had ced a significant weight on the bnced scales, enough to determine the oue.


    Although their appearances were entirely different, his gaze was reminiscent of the one who had killed Demilo.


    ��The sacred Stars connect us.��


    Murmuring the prayer internally, the power of the Stars infused through the void chains into the Knowledge Creature bodies. The surviving eight Serpent-Scorpion Dragons instantly took on a deep blue hue, including Demilo��s remaining mount.


    They yawnedzily as if just awakening, their bodies covered in a blue distortion. In a second, the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons vanished without trace, reced by eight deep blue double swordsmen in full armor with no gaps to be seen. Behind the visor of their cross-shaped helmets were only deep blue pupils, and behind them, a scorpion tail, not with a stinger, but a blue-glowing Thrust Sword.


    ��Star Swordsman Serpent-Scorpion Dragon Specialization��!


    Since the decision to engage in Battle was made, Demilo naturally spared no expense with his ��soldiers.��


    He had beenmanding Knowledge Creatures, but they couldn��t truly be considered soldiers, merely followers.


    Knowledge Creatures were, after all, monsters and could not bepared to Sorcerers capable of wielding tools. Even if amander could control them with ease, as tactical executors, Knowledge Creatures were far too inferior to Humans.


    The strength of the heroic soul legiony in themander��s ability to transform followers into a much more powerful ��type of soldier,�� preserving the originalbat power of the Knowledge Creatures while also endowing them with more powerfulbat skills.


    And when followers became soldiers, they would undergo different mutations based on their physical characteristics. For example, the Serpent-Scorpion Dragons, with their distinct pincers and scorpion tail, mutated into double swordsmen with tail swords, capable of executing three attacks at once, overwhelming any ordinary Sorcerer with a flurry of six eyes and three swords.


    Although Serpent-Scorpion Star Swordsmen are merely a primary ss of soldier within Star Hall, when assigned to the right Knowledge Creatures, they can form an impressivebat force. To Demilo and his fellow heroic souls, the Knowledge Creatures themselves are of lesser importance; what matters are the ��soldiers�� they carry.


    The Knowledge Creatures of the Virtual Realm are endless, but ��soldiers�� are not born from the Virtual Realm; they hail from reality. For Star Hall, soldiers are the most crucial and rarest resource for warfare. It��s of no consequence how many followers perish, but each soldier must be used with caution, preserved ideally for sieges and national wars.


    Until just moments ago, Demilo believed that merely expending followers would suffice to kill the three Sorcerers, naturally unwilling to use his own soldiers. In truth, he didn��t carry many soldiers with him, for this was but a resource transport mission to the hintends during a time of peace. Under normal circumstances, the vast majority of soldiers must remain in the Main City, under the Lord��s custody and direction.


    However, Star Hall had recently recruited a batch of soldiers in reality, an unexpected boon, allowing each heroic soul to receive a small reserve for emergencies, Demilo included.


    It was a pity that the Thousand-Feathered Dragons were gone. Had they been avable, Demilo could have enhanced them to the second-ss ��Star Archer�� rank. Combined with their inherent Thousand-Feather mutation, they could have turned the steel behemoth into a sieve in the blink of an eye.


    But the Serpent-Scorpion Star Swordsmen alone were enough.


    With a light gesture from the Star Shepherd, the Star Swordsmen marched in formation into the poison fog cave, utterly fearless of the toxic miasma. Upon being granted their soldier ss, the Star Swordsmen acquired an armor-like barrier. Unless an attack could prate the armor in a single strike, it would inflict no harm upon the Star Swordsmen.


    Even if the attack could breach the armor, it would only deplete the energy of the armor, still not harming the true body of the Star Swordsman. Equipped with threeyers of armor, the bone-corroding, soul-dissolving toxic fog was no more than a mild nuisance, slightly impairing their vision but nothing more to the Serpent-Scorpion Star Swordsmen.


    Demilo stood outside the cave, harnessing the perception of the Star Swordsmen to pinpoint the direction of the enemy, and then��


    Buzz! Buzz! Buzz!


    The steel behemoth charged clumsily at one of the Star Swordsmen, ying right into the hands of the Star Shepherd.


    Defend!


    Facing the monster��s charge, the Star Swordsman crossed his swords in an X formation to defend, directly countering the massive inertia of the Evil de!


    Crack! Crack! Crack!


    Threeyers of armor shattered one after the other, but the Star Swordsman still stood his ground, staunchly blocking the steel beast!


    ng��


    A chorus of sword rings erupted as the remaining Star Swordsmen immediatelyunched an assault on the Sorcerers within the monster, sword light enveloping from all directions like a cast across the sky!


    ��Ah!?��


    ��Why�� who are they!?��


    The poison fog could not hide the Sorcerers�� voices of shock, which was expected by Demilo. Just as he wouldn��t waste soldiers to kill Sorcerers, other heroic souls would certainly only let their followers expel these pests.


    Just as no Sorcerer knew the secret of the heroic souls, naturally, no Sorcerer had ever witnessed these monster soldiers granted a military ss.


    If this moment of shock could dominate the enemy��s thought process, then it was a tactical victory. If the enemy hesitated, even slightly, their Souls would be torn to shreds the next second��


    However��


    Hum!


    The steel monster roared again, its fanged de smashing the armor-broken Star Swordsman into two halves! At the same time, the male Sorcerer seemed to perform a Miracle, cloaking the entire vehicle in a warm yellow barrier, which, though shredded by the sword the next second, managed to create a gap, allowing for a narrow escape from a certain onught!


    How many more times can you perform such a protective Miracle? Next time I will leave two Star Swordsmen as a pursuit force; you won��t get a second chance�� Demilo quickly adjusted his battle n inwardly,manding the remaining seven Star Swordsmen to continue the siege.


    Just one mistake, and death would cling on relentlessly.


    The steel monster circled within the cave, and after multiple instances of umted damage, it finally seized an opportunity to crush a Star Swordsman.


    Just one mistake.


    The steel monster��s continuous drifting and spinning dodged the Star Swordsman��s pincer attack, incidentally slicing two Star Swordsmen to death.


    Just��


    As thest Star Swordsman was struck down by the steel beast, Demilo stepped aside at the entrance of the cavern. Secondster, the steel monster roared as it emerged once more from the poison fog-filled cave, its ws that shredded the Star Swordsmen showing no signs of wear. Its four round wheels viciously carved cringe-inducing scratches into the earth!


    The man emerged unscathed, his gaze fixed intently on Demilo as if to say��


    You��re next.


    Watching the man d in a deep red trench coat, Demilo knew he had been outmaneuvered.


    Defeated thoroughly, without a sliver of excuse to offer.


    Though the opponent had but one steel monster unit, tomand a single unit was still tomand. He managed to stay cool under Demilo��s siege tactics, brutally tearing open a gap and picking off the Star Shepherd��s soldiers with guerri tactics, a ssic example of triumphing with fewer against many.


    ��Where did those deep blue soldierse from? Which fairytale did they escape from?�� the Female Sorcerer with ck to red gradient hair asked curiously, seemingly anticipating a response from Demilo.


    Demilo paid no heed to the other Female Sorcerers, silently invoking in his heart: ��Stars, please twinkle for me.��


    Boom!


    A deep blue armor materialized over his body, his left hand holding a fierce-looking giant bow firmly nted on the ground, his right hand drawing a dazzlingrge arrow from his quiver as if made of Diamond, aiming at the steel monster still polluting the environment with its farts.


    Buzz! Buzz! Buzz!


    As the steel monster charged, sensing danger, Ashe quickly grabbed Sonya and Deya, diving under their seats!


    In contrast, the Star Shepherd stood his ground, not moving an inch, casually releasing an arrow.


    The dazzling arrow, upon missing its mark, split into three, striking down like Thunder onto the sports car!


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Snap!


    The front windshield shattered instantly, the dazzling arrows grazing over the heads of Ashe and hispanions, whisking away a few strands of hair. At the same time, the sports car��s terrifying Evil de struck fiercely at Demilo, carrying the momentum of over sixty kilometers per hour, seemingly poised to cleave him in two!


    Thud!


    The Evil de, capable of slicing through stone as if it were butter, not only failed to cut down the Star Shepherd but also spun in ce as if it had hit a pir!


    Demilo was merely pushed back a few steps by the impact, his deep blue armor showing almost no change as he casually drew a second dazzling arrow.


    The Sorcerers, fighting off the dizziness from the collision and spin, peeked out to assess the situation. Sonya nearly screamed, ��Those creatures were just hit and even if their armor wasn��t breached, the color should have faded a bit�� How can he seempletely unaffected!?��


    ��His armor is very high-grade,�� Deya said, her hair now a messy mix of ck, red, and white��impure ck, tainted red, and dim white, her voice a trio: ��This must be the privilege of a heroic soul, but no matter, as long as we keep hitting him, surely����


    ��It does matter.��


    Ashe interjected, ��Hisst attack took out one-fifth of the car��s remaining health.��


    ��Four more hits like that, and the car will explode. Without this vehicle, we stand no chance, but the enemy only has the heroic soulmander left.��


    ��It��s either the car explodes first, or he dies first.��


    ��The final round begins.��

 Chapter 243: The Invincible Heroic Soul

    Chapter 243: The Invincible Heroic Soul


    This must be my third time engaging in personalbat, Demilo thought.


    Commanders are meant to lead from the rear, but when the troops are wiped out, it��s only natural for amander to enter the battlefield toplete strategic objectives. Even if one dies in battle, the Divine Master will awaken you from memory once more, with all the Merit from past lives umting.


    For the Divine Master, a suitable Legionmander is a scarce resource. Not all Sorcerer Projections qualify to be a heroic soul��most cannot unearth a talent formand. And even with such a talent, there��s no guarantee of alignment with the power��s interests. For example, a sorcerer with a talent for manding undead units�� would be meaningless in Star Hall, which has no undead units tomand.


    Different Sorcerer Projections have varyingmand talents, butmand is not yet a Magical Faction recognized by the Virtual Realm, and thus, it cannot receive assistance from it. It relies solely on the talent of themander.


    Amander like Demilo, who spent hundreds of years cultivating a talent for ��logistics magic,�� is someone the Divine Master would never give up. There are only a few logisticsmanders in Star Hall, and each one can elerate the pace of resource collection.


    If he were to flee�� There is no option to flee. Whenmanders realize that dying in battle is more cost-effective, none choose to escape. After all, they are just puppets with memories, with thought patterns that are straight, singlene roads, executing only themands given to them.


    ��But since meeting this group of sorcerers, he has been performing tasks beyond thosemands.


    Demilo looked at the massive bow in his left hand, a symbol of the ��Star Archer�� unit type he had appropriated for himself. Like Knowledge Creatures,manders undergo different mutations based on their own traits when they are assigned a unit type��because he mastered the ��Fierce Tyrant��s Cmity Bow�� and the ��Diamond Splitting Arrow�� Miracles, his Star Archer mutated ordingly. A normal Star Archer wouldn��t have such arge bow or such dazzling arrows.


    Andpared to Knowledge Creatures,manders have one advantage that can��t be ignored.They can ovey multiple soldiers of the same type onto themselves at once.


    For example, right now, Demilo had equipped himself with the cumtive power of eight ��Star Archer�� minions. This action didn��t increase his damage output, but the armor could indeed be stacked; while a single Star Archer��s armor might only have twoyers, stacking it eight times resulted in a total of 16yers.


    The numerical increase didn��t merely boost the armor��s hit points; it also meant a significant surge in the armor��s damage reduction factor!


    The higher the number of armoryers, the greater the damage mitigation of the outermostyer, and naturally, the more damage required to break through ayer.


    Suppose eachyer of armor has 100 hit points and a 10% damage reduction. Then, to shatter oneyer of armor, one would need to inflict 112 points of damage. But with twoyers of armor, the outermost secondyer would have a 14% damage reduction, requiring 117 points of damage to break through!


    Eachyer of armor has a different damage reduction factor, and with eachyer, the reduction increases!


    Though the factor can��t rise indefinitely, Demilo, with his 16yers, enjoyed nearly 50% damage reduction on his outermost armor. The steel beast��s blow, which could have prated threeyers of armor, could only tear through the 16thyer, leaving the 15th, 14th, and so on untouched��


    This is why soldiers are more important than minions��with enough soldiers, even if all minions are lost, a heroic soul can still be an army unto themselves!


    In thest two ��Six Countries�� Grand Seal Wars,�� Demilo once wrapped himself with the power of 300 Star Archer units, standing at a tactical vantage point and single-handedly suppressing multiple enemy Legions. For this, he was awarded the ��Invincible Heroic Soul�� medal and was granted triple Merit by the Divine Master.


    Before his armor could be shattered, he had all the time in the world to execute these Sorcerers slowly.


    Drawing the bow fully, Demilo aimed at the charging steel beast.


    Buzz!


    Suddenly, a whining sound of tire friction��just as the sports car was about to crash, it braked sharply and drifted, drawing a doughnut-like skid mark, floating and sliding in front of Demilo.


    Trying to disrupt my shooting uracy, which means this steel monster can��t withstand many of my shots either�� Demilo instantly analyzed the opponent��s intentions and weaknesses. However, at that moment, the opposing Sorcerer suddenly popped their head out to observe!


    ng!


    Although Demilo��s reaction was swift, the Sorcerer seemed to have lured him into firing prematurely, showing themselves only to duck back immediately. In that split second, the sports car fiercely struck Demilo, destroying his 15thyer of armor.


    Cunning man.


    Demilo revised his battle strategy once more, no longer attempting to shoot the Sorcerer but instead focusing on demolishing the steel beast. However, as the steel behemoth continued to run circles, the Star Shepherd realized he had been duped.


    Even after leaving the cave, the steel beast��s rear continuously expelled a poisonous fog. Although the poison dissipated quickly in the open air, after several rounds, the concentration of the dark green poison fog had thickened enough to obscure vision!


    If he wanted to perform a long-range shot, even if he could split his arrow into three, most likely only one would hit its target. Given the steel beast��s high speed, its unpredictable path, and the addedplication of reduced visibility, it was uncertain whether Demilo could shatter their mount before his own armor failed.


    This meant that to improve his shooting uracy, Demilo was left with only one choice��


    Hum!


    As the sports car burst from the fog to crush its enemy, the long-awaiting Demilo released his bowstring!


    A direct, hard confrontation!


    He would shoot only when the steel beast was up close to ensure every arrow achieved its purpose!


    Demilo was utterly convinced that before his armor shattered, the adversary��s mount would be torn into pieces by his arrows first!


    Indeed, that would be the case in theory.


    If no one interfered.


    Just as Demilo was about to be struck by the de, several threads shot out from the sports car like streams of water, wrapping gently yet firmly around his waist!


    Then, with a fierce tug!


    Demilo couldn��t escape the entanglement of the threads, nor was he knocked away by the sports car. Instead, he was forced to keep close contact with the Evil de. He was not panicked, but rather curious��the terror of the steel behemoth did not lie in the segments of the de that could easily slice through a Soul, but in the powerful inertia enhanced by its speed.


    Now being pulled by the threads, he certainly faced Continuous Damage from the de, butpared to the previous collision damage, the current hurt was as negligible as an attack with nail clippers.


    However, being controlled like this was no solution. Just as Demilo thought to cut the threads, he found the steel beast had already pushed him clear of the poison fog.


    Why would it willingly give up the advantage of reduced visibility? Out in the open, they had no capital to contend with him.


    Could it be��


    Feeling a sudden realization, Demilo looked back and discovered that behind him was the cave wall!

 Chapter 244: Slain Twice by the Vibration Sword

    Chapter 244: in Twice by the Vibration Sword


    Boom!


    The Star Shepherd mmed into the wall, like a doll thrown against it. Yet Ashe and the others were relentless, their car speeding wildly, the Evil de savagely tearing at the Star Shepherd��s body armor. Forced against the wall, the Star Shepherd was pushed along for over ten meters, his deep blue armor scraped down to a pale hue!


    He was like a dirty shirt on a washboard, his Star Archer armor scrubbed to bursting by the brutal force of the steel beast!


    Yet, the Star Shepherd��s expression remained unchanged. His left hand, holding the great bow, flicked, and the bow shrank into apact short bow. Bracing his feet against the wall, he frantically searched for footholds, his fingers drawing a blue-glowing short arrow against the bowstring, firing wildly at the car��s hood!


    Like a torrential pear blossom rain, the dense barrage of arrows steadily drained the sports car��s vitality. Demilo, ignoring his own peril, allowed his armor to shatter rapidly to keep up his assault on the steel monster!


    Watching the sports car��s health plummet, Ashe, hidden beneath the seat, said, ��The car��s about to blow, we must go all in. Just like the n, Witch, keep control, I��ll handle the rear attack, Swordswoman�� it��s all on you.��


    ��Then watch closely,�� Sonya gripped the hilt tightly, ��Sharpening for a Decade�� had been silently activated��a spirit she��d spent a fortune on for such a moment when an Observer chose to court death.


    The de glowed with an Edge Glow, indicating that every sh from Sonya in the next minute would have miraculous cutting force!


    Now, with only one opponent left, the Red-haired Swordswoman, who thrived on bullying the weak and feared the strong, was fearlessly focused. She concentrated all her senses, waiting for her teammates to create the perfect opportunity for her to strike.Suddenly, the sports car swerved and smashed as if trying to embed itself in the wall, as though it wanted to cram the engine in too, brutally mming Demilo against the wall!


    The Star Shepherd was now pressed into the wall, unable to move, almost leaving an imprint of his figure. His armor had lightened considerably, but it still protected his whole body, not affecting his archery!


    ��Die!��


    Witch leapt from the car and stood her ground, her hands pulling taut the water threads around Star Shepherd��s waist. Despite the car��s Evil de and the water threads�� strength, capable of shattering gold and cleaving jade, they emitted a strained groan but failed to fully tear the Star Shepherd apart!


    Instead, Witch found herself away from the safety of the car, fully exposed to Demilo��s line of sight.


    He coldly shifted his focus to the Female Sorcerer, his bow now aimed at a new target��


    Zing!


    With a resonant ring of Sword Light, a streak shot towards Demilo��s eyes. The flight path of the Sword Light lingered in the air like heavy ink strokes, as if recoloring the world itself!


    Miracle Sword Art!


    Though it was called a Miracle, it was merely a simplebination of Heart Sword and Sword Scar, without much mystery. In Swordswoman��s words, it was like a ��miracle�� stew made from unwashed mushrooms and unbutchered live chicken��a patent application for it would surely get one chased out by staff wielding clubs.


    Even with such a rudimentarybination, it was only thanks to the sharing of Swordsmanship within the Faction Realm that Ashe could barely apply both spirits to Combat. There was significant room for improvement in arcane energy consumption, Fusion, and destructive efficiency��or rather, no room left for regression.


    If a theoretical Sword Art should possess the might of a fighter jet, then the current Sword Art was more akin to a pilot attacking with a slingshot while flying the ne.


    Nevertheless, if it was just to disrupt the enemy, Sword Art was sufficient for the task!


    Because his vision was hindered by the trails of Sword Light, Demilo had to tilt his head slightly. As for the destructive power of the Sword Light, it was less than that of the threads and not worth his concern.


    However, Ashe��s arrival caused Demilo to shift his target once again. Compared to the Female Sorcerer, this man was the highest priority target for Demilo, and nothing would change the trajectory of his arrows now.


    Tap!


    A figure dashed from the car, Swordswoman brandishing her de toward Demilo!


    Though only a singleyer of armor remained on him, Demilo had never cared for his own life or death and was simrly indifferent to this imminent fatal blow.


    He drew his short bow to its maximum potential, his pupils fixed only on the figure of Ashe��


    ��But out of the corner of his eye, Demilo caught a glimpse of a crimson Sword Qi Vibration from Sonya��s de.


    Vibration��


    Vibration Sword?


    The fragmented Soul trembled lightly, and memories buried deep stirred once again.


    The heroic soul, which had never wavered in Battle, as relentless and steady as a war machine, had finally made a mistake.


    This was the first mistake since he had opened his eyes on the Time Continent.


    An instant of hesitation cost Demilo hisst chance to counter. The Evil Light sh fell like a guillotine, not only shattering thestyer of armor but also severing his hands.


    Without his hands, Demilo could not strike back, and he was also pinned against the wall by the car, unable to move. Watching the red-haired Female Sorcerer��s de emit a strange yet familiar Sword Light of the Vibration Sword, it seemed as though those cold memories were also warming up.


    I, Demilo, was actually��


    Killed by the Vibration Sword twice.


    Boom!


    Sonya��s second Evil Light shpletely decapitated Demilo��s head, with the Sword Light even cutting six inches into the wall before dissipating!


    The headless heroic soul copsed onto the car��s hood, fading away into little specks of light.


    Sonya gripped her longsword, standing on the hood, while Ashe hid behind the car��s rear, and Deya held her breath.


    Several secondster, Ashe stepped out and said softly, ��Is it over?��


    ��It should be�� over.��


    The Red-haired Swordswoman jumped down from the car��s hood. Although Souls aren��t supposed to feel fatigue, for some reason, she felt a strong desire to sit down. She plopped herself against the car door and slid down as if all her strength had left her.


    Ashe, too, ended his lengthy state of calm observation. He didn��t notice anything amiss, but he felt a profound tiredness emanating from deep within his Soul, akin to the weariness one feels after workingte into the night, rushing to catch thest subway only to realize that they��ve forgotten their keys, missing the train because they went back for the keys, and then, being too economical to hail a cab, walking several kilometers home.


    He walked over to the Swordswoman with a sigh, sitting down beside her against the car door, matching her rhythm in deep breaths.


    ��Aren��t you going to collect the spoils of war first?�� Witch seemed to still be bursting with energy, unconsciously pulling out water threads and scrawling on the wall, making a grating sound. If one could overlook her matted hair color and the quartet of voices in her tone, she appeared quite normal.


    Ashe gestured for her toe over, and when Witch approached, he pulled her down to sit, ��Let��s rest for a moment.��


    ��We really did put in a lot of effort this time, so�� we should enjoy the peace thates after victory.��

 Chapter 245: The Sunk Cost of Striving to Become the Observer

    Chapter 245: The Sunk Cost of Striving to Be the Observer


    The battle with the Heroic Soul Legion truly exhausted Ashe and hispanions.


    It wasn��t just Ashe, who had been at the forefront of the battle from beginning to end, but also Sonya and Deya, who had spent most of their time as cheerleaders. They endured the constant threat of sudden death while hiding in the car, countering the dizziness and impact of speeding, with no moment of respite for their minds�� like a tightly wound spring, the aftereffects of releasing their potential energy remained, and they hadn��t yet recovered from the harrowing battle they had just experienced.


    Even though Ashe and the others had faced dangerous battles in the past, those were merely ��dangerous��, where the Sorcerers still had room to maneuver. However, this battle with the Heroic Soul Legion left no room for errors; a single car explosion, and they would have no capacity to contend with the Legion.


    They had been skirting the edge of death the entire time.


    Using the terrain to set traps, poisoning the Thousand-Feathered Dragon amidst a sea of enemies, grinding down the Serpent-Scorpion Star Swordsman, fighting the Heroic Souls to thest second�� Compared to this battle, ying the ying Fish-Dragon could almost be considered a leisure activity to rx one��s mind.


    However, after sitting for a while, Ashe and Sonya had mostly recovered. Yet, they still leaned against the car, with no intention of standing up, like employees who start their Restroom break with a 15-minute minimum of ��touch fish��.


    They were not toozy to get up; adventuring in the Virtual Realm was akin to being self-employed, and as motivated entrepreneurs, they were quite enthusiastic about their work. They remained seated because they were waiting for the Witch to Rest.


    Sonya, usually a chatterbox, was now silent, her legs d in ck stockingszily crossed, her nose emitting a gentle snore as if she were lying in bed.


    Yet, she kept using her peripheral vision to observe Deya��s clown-like, colorful attire, with a hint of concern in her eyes.Ashe��s acting skills were not as good as Sonya��s; he sat with a very stiff posture, trying to observe Deya��s chaotic hair, which looked as if it had been doused with a palette of spilled paint. His left hand still held Deya��s wrist, ready for any unexpected events.


    After defeating the Heroic Souls, Ashe and Sonya hadmunicated through eye contact and reached a consensus��the Witch��s condition was far from good.


    They were acutely aware that as the battle grew more perilous, the Witch��s hair color became increasingly muddled, and even her voice began to shift. At one point, she spoke with the resonance of a quartet, as if four different individuals were speaking at once, while her hair continued to change into a chaotic mix of colors��a very ominous sign indeed.


    Rest was not only a post-battle rxation but also a means to facilitate the Witch��s recovery. They could all deduce that the Witch��s strange condition was undoubtedly linked to her ��sisters��. Yet, issues of the mind werepletely beyond their capabilities; their spirit miracles were of no use here.


    Fortunately, both Ashe and Sonya were of Silver Rank in the Mind Faction Realm. Even though they hadn��t read many psychology texts, when confronted with such special events involving changes of the mind, they could intuit the correct course of action��do not disturb the Witch and let her gradually calm down.


    Had it been the old Sonya, she would have certainly tried to indirectly inquire about how the Witch felt. As for Ashe, he might have blurted out something like, ��Have you considered shaving your head?��


    But thanks to their intuitive knowledge from the Mind Faction Realm, they were able to nip those potentially irredeemable thoughts in the bud.


    Only the ignorant are fearless; knowledge teaches reverence.


    Perhaps it was the atmosphere they had created, but the Witch alsozily sat down next to the sports car and closed her eyes. Her clothes slowly shifted back to ck, and the cheap illusionary colors in her hair faded, soon returning to the Secret Princess��s pure shade.


    She fell asleep.


    This was the first time Ashe and Sonya had seen someone fall asleep in the Virtual Realm. They quietly gathered on either side of the Witch, studying her eyebrows, lips, nose, eyshes, and sses for a while. Unaware until they took a closer look, they were startled to find that, although the Witch was always beautiful, she looked even more serene in her sleep, like a timid deer, so much so that they were tempted to pinch her cheeks.


    When Ashe��s gaze began to wander beyond her neck, curious about the curves beneath her clothing, Sonya reached out and grabbed his chin, twisting his line of sight to meet her own.


    You wake her up.


    Why should I? You do it.


    I��ve just met her recently; you��re more suitable.


    You��re a woman; you��re more appropriate.


    Women are not more appropriate.


    Why not?


    Are you a woman or am I? Don��t women understand women?


    You�� damn, that actually makes some sense.


    Ashe lost the silent argument and begrudgingly took on the loathsome task of acting as an rm clock. But since Swordswoman was so unwilling, he didn��t hold back!


    Pinch~


    Ashe reached out and pinched the Witch��s chubby cheek, enjoying the pleasant feel of it. It was said that bodies in the Virtual Realm were true reflections of their real counterparts, hence the softness could be felt. Setting everything else aside, this touch alone was enough to heal Ashe of the fatigue from the previous Battle�� Who knew a girl��s cheek was so soft!


    ��Hey!��


    Sonya swiftly chopped Ashe��s hand away: ��Isn��t that harassment?��


    ��I��m trying to wake her up! ording to the relevant surveys, attacking the face is the most effective way to wake someone, like a p certainly does the trick.��


    ��Then p her!��


    Good grief, not even the dumbest and most iron-willed college roommates I knew were as ruthless as you; only my brother could have done something like this.


    ��Huh?��


    Deya, awakened by the pinch, rubbed her eyes in confusion and looked around at them: ��Huh? You guys�� this ce�� how did I�� am I dreaming?��


    Sonya didn��t hesitate to pinch her face hard, turning it into a pancake face: ��You just fell asleep! Snap out of it, we��re still in the Virtual Realm!��


    ��Oh, oh, oh!�� Deya nodded vigorously: ��Right, I remember now, we beat the heroic soul legion�� We actually won, yay, yay!��


    The Witch immediately burst into excitement, hugging the Swordswoman in celebration. Ashe, moved by the scene, also extended his arms, trying to join the celebratory embrace of the girls, but he was pushed away by the Swordswoman. However, the Witch, noticing Ashe��s gesture, came over and hugged him as well: ��Observer, your driving skills are amazing! So awesome! You��re even cooler than the viins in fairy tales! Swordswoman is super amazing too, delivering the final blow, and of course, I��m also great, I held onto that heroic soul!��


    ��Yes, yes, yes, Witch, you did a great job this time, thank you for your hard work.��


    Ashe gently rubbed Deya��s head with his right hand, smoothing down her proud, spiky hair while raising his left hand high to show that all of his actions were in line with the standards suitable for children��s TV channels. Sonya snorted and stood up, saying, ��Well, we should go collect the spoils of war that we��ve earned��hopefully they haven��t thought themselves unwanted and run off.��


    By this time, the poisonous fog in the cave had dissipated, and as they looked around, they found few spoils to speak of. It was unclear if the manner of their victory was the issue or if it was because the Knowledge Creatures were part of the heroic soul legion, but their defeat had not resulted in the dropping of Experience Orbs, nor even any spirits.


    There were only three pieces of loot on the battlefield, all dropped by the heroic souls.


    The first was a manual, but when Ashe picked it up, he realized it wasn��t the Sorcerer Handbook they had expected��


    ��Demilo��s Commander��s Handbook��


    ��Read to obtain a choice of one reward����


    ��Sword Command Technique �C Basic: You know how to coordinate swordsmanship Faction troops and gain arge amount of Swordsmanship Faction experience.��


    ��Archery Command Technique �C Intermediate: You excel at using ranged troops to achieve tactical intentions and gain an enormous amount of Archery Faction experience.��


    ��Offensive Technique �C Basic: You be more threatening whenmanding an attack and gain a small amount of experience for all Factions.��


    ��Logistics Technique �C Intermediate: Your troops move more swiftly during marches and gain a moderate amount of experience for all Factions.��


    How to describe the shock that the Commander��s Handbook gave to the sorcerers? Look at Swordswoman��s reaction to understand��upon learning of the reward options inside, the word ��Small horn�� slipped out of her mouth, herposurepletely shattered by the shock.


    If the Sorcerer Handbook was like a nutritious but difficult-to-eat vegetable, then the Commander��s Handbook was akin to a high-nutrition ice cream cake that defied thews of matter with zero calories, zero sugar, and zero protein. First, its rewards were not random, but could be chosen; second, in addition tomanding skills, it also provided Faction experience, essentially giving away extra Experience Orbs.


    Of course, the most important aspect was��it had no reading prerequisites!


    Not every vegetable suits the pte of a sorcerer, but who can resist a zero-calorie ice cream cake? Ashe and hispanions didn��t even need to open the Commander��s Handbook to read themand experience within; they could simply use it and receive the rewards. Therefore, even Sonya, whose moral baseline was rather rigid, could use it!


    Although the Commander��s Handbook might not seem particrly valuable��after all, it was just ��amand skill that might not be used�� plus an Experience Orb��the loot they obtained from ying the Fish-Dragon wasn��t much different.


    The appearance of the Commander��s Handbook broadened their horizons, showing them that not all Sorcerer Handbooks were tough vegetables to chew. In the Virtual Realm, there might exist other vors of Sorcerer Handbooks that were even more nutritious.


    If they encountered simr heroic soul sorcerer projections like before, Swordswoman would definitely not stop Ashe from venturing into danger. They bravely took a step into the unknown, and the Commander��s Handbook was the positive feedback reward for doing so. Therefore, their first reaction to encountering the unknown and facing danger in the future would not be to flee, but to probe and gather intelligence.


    A sorcerer who has tasted sweetness will readily lick any unknown secret, even if it might contain bitterness or even poison.


    Silently, the sess shaped their way of thinking. Just as the River of Flowing Gold nurtured their ambition, hunting heroic souls also grew their greed.


    Without a doubt, the Commander��s Handbook was naturally for Sonya. After all, among the three of them, no one required the Archery Faction, and the urgent task at hand was to feed Sonya��s Swordsmanship Faction up to the Gold Tier.


    Sonya also deeply felt her own powerlessness in the recent battle. Although she delivered the final fatal blow, 99% of the credit for the entire battle had to go to Ashe and his nearly exhausted sports car.


    The real MVP deserving of praise and embrace was the car!


    But the sports car was a manifestation of Ashe��s power, which by itself far surpassed her own; and the Witch had a Gold Tier Magical Faction, with her water thread possessing both offensive and control capabilities. Moreover, the Witch could read most Sorcerer Handbooks�� Sonya realized after some reflection that she was unwittingly on the verge of bing the one whogged behind in the team.


    The Observer had made it clear that if one couldn��t keep up with the team, they wouldn��t receive a tilt in resources or favoritism. If the team needed to optimize its member structure, naturally, the onesgging behind would be the first to be optimized��


    So, Sonya didn��t hesitate this time; she reached out and took the Commander��s Handbook.


    She wasn��t the type to admit defeat easily. If she truly couldn��t keep pace with the team��s progress, her n was to drain the Observer of resources, consume all the resources the Observer had, to the point where the Observer would be forced to invest even more to avoid wasting previous investments!


    As long as she owed enough to the Observer, then the one in panic wouldn��t be her, but the Observer!


    What was that called again��? Right, sunk cost, a term the Observer once exined whileining about work. Sonya really liked this term.


    The more one invests, the harder it is to let go.


    Time, effort, emotions, experiences, everything bes a shackle affecting current decisions.


    She set a small goal in her mind��to be the sunk cost the Observer couldn��t afford to abandon!


    Before using the Commander��s Handbook, Sonya quickly skimmed its contents and, as expected, found it exceedingly dull. It was all aboutmand experience and battle examples, without a single bit of intelligence on ��Demilo.��


    No wonder the Commander��s Handbook could be used by anyone; it bore no imprint of a sorcerer��s values or opinions, no output of viewpoints, just like any ordinary reference book. Of course, there��d be no reading barrier.


    But isn��t the Sorcerer Handbook the culmination of a sorcerer��s life��s work? How could it contain not even a hint of Demilo��s privacy?


    The thought flickered through the rustic girl��s mind and then disappeared��probably a special mechanism of the Virtual Realm. If there��s nothing to see, then there��s nothing to see.


    Turning to thest page, Sonya saw a somewhat familiar photograph.


    It was a star chart, the profound night sky, twinkling Stars, with three stars connected by lines. The lowest one wasbeled ��Demilo,�� but the other two were nameless.


    She showed this page to the others, and Ashe made an urate assessment:


    ��It looks like the information a victim gives about their murderer right before dying.��

 Chapter 246: Spoils of War

    Chapter 246: Spoils of War


    The second piece of loot plummeted in value.


    ��Demilo��s Hand-Drawn Map��


    ��It seems foolish to record everything that��s subject to change, but heroic souls usually don��t have much else to do.��


    Just as it sounds, this is a map, its material feels like parchment. When Ashe unfolds it, detailed annotations covering its surface be visible.


    Glowing points: Current location, Main City of Star Hall.


    Terrain: Swamp, mud, forest, cave, mountain range��


    Resource Points: Lumber mill, ore pit, crystal mine, mercury factory, gold mine��


    Special Areas: Dragon��s nest, River of Flowing Gold, Destiny��s Inquiry House, Miracle Park, Tree of Wisdom��


    ��No Rainbow Tail.�� Ashe andpanions meticulously examine the map, shaking their heads in disappointment. They had hoped the heroic soul��s map would contain information on Rainbow Tail, considering that heroic souls, in theory, are part of the Virtual Realm establishment, and thus, such insider information could potentially be known.However, aside from the absence of Rainbow Tail, the map was asprehensive as theye. Leaving aside the Resource Points, just ��Destiny��s Inquiry House�� and ��Miracle Park�� alone were worth a visit. The former offered opportunities to ask questions about the Virtual Realm through answers, while thetter allowed one to freeload spiritpanions.


    The ��Tree of Wisdom�� was even more formidable. The Swordswoman mentioned that one could pay a certain price to directly elevate one��s standing within a Faction Realm��an equivalent to a Sanctuary pass, a Sorcerer��s wishing machine, a life-altering tree.


    This sounded more reliable than Rainbow Tail, but the issuey in the ��certain price����though there were cases where one could advance by paying a trivial price, many more records told of Sorcerers paying a grim price and ultimately resorting to suicide.


    For instance, the price demanded by the Tree of Wisdom might be the Sorcerer��s loss of the ability to speak (including listening, reading, and writing) for three days. Coincidentally, the Sorcerer bes entangled in a murder case. Unable tomunicate, the Sorcerer mistakenly believes that other criminal facts have been exposed, and in desperation,mits murder; likewise, without means ofmunication, the Sorcerer suspects that their spouse and child are nning to betray them and ends up killing their entire family.


    Once the Sorcerer returns to normal, the real murderer is apprehended, but the Sorcerer, upon learning the truth, also sumbs to a mental breakdown and their soul retreats to the Virtual Realm.


    Despite its notorious reputation, the Tree of Wisdom still attracted many Sorcerers because they knew theycked sufficient wisdom. However,pared to seeking Rainbow Tail, Sorcerers were more inclined to do so, as failing to find Rainbow Tail at most meant losing Soul Energy, while confronting the Tree of Wisdom meant selling one��s soul.


    Logically, this Map, filled with important intelligence, should have been the top prize among the spoils of war, but Ashe and the others were less enthusiastic��because it was, indeed, just a Map.


    It was not a spirit.


    Experience Orbs could be absorbed, spirits could bemanded, but they couldn��t take the Map out of the Virtual Realm, nor could they keep it for their next entry. Even if they memorized the Map��s information, they didn��t know where they would appear upon their next venture into the Virtual Realm. Trying to find reference coordinates would only lead to getting lost in the Curtain Maze of the Reverse Golden Rain.


    A Map without reference points is like falling in love with a Paper person��no matter how much you invest, you only harvest emptiness.


    As for using the Map tonight to indulge in the thrill of discovering special Areas, not to mention their car was about to explode, the key point was��the high-value special Areas were not close by.


    There was a scale on the Map, and they estimated that even the nearest Miracle Park was 10 kilometers away. If the sports car was still operational, it might have been fine, but on foot, just the journey through thorns and underbrush could deplete all their Soul Energy.


    Distance was not the only issue; they had engaged in battles with the Fierce Wolf Dragon n and the heroic soul legion in this Area, and then they had just rested for a while. Even though they had previously traveled by car, staying in the same Area for such a long time meant that the White Bull had already traveled quite a distance.


    If they didn��t want to be caught by the stillness of time, they had to either move forward quickly or log off and exit the Virtual Realm right there��they simply didn��t have time to search for Miracle Park.


    However,pared to Resource Points, the several glowing important annotations on the Map were even more attractive to the Sorcerers.


    The glowing points on the Map indicated their current location and four distant Star Halls within the Main Cities, which were very far away and seemingly within the Static Domain. Although there was no additional information, the mere name ��Star Hall Main Cities�� gave Ashe and the others a glimpse into the iceberg that was the Time Continent��these heroic soul legions were not naturally urring special ecologies, but rather agents backed by Virtual Realm powers!


    So, in this world, who could establish hidden forces within the Virtual Realm, enving Sorcerer Projections and Knowledge Creatures for their own use?


    ��Could the Star Halls be a force created by the Divine Master?�� Sonya asked in a hushed tone, as if afraid of drawing the attention of a great entity.


    ��Possibly, or possibly not,�� Ashe shook his head. ��The intelligence we��ve gathered is too scarce to make any meaningful guesses. These Main Cities could also be relics of an ancient era, any Sorcerer Projection that enters might be transformed into a heroic soul, awakened with spiritual intelligence, and then they prepare to assemble a Virtual Realm army to counterattack the real world����


    ��Isn��t that just the fairy tale story I was just talking about!�� Deya pointed out sharply, noticing Ashe��s impromptu use of the tale.


    ��In any case, if we want to uncover the secrets of the heroic soul legion, we need to take a look at what exactly these so-called Main Cities have to offer,�� Ashe said with a hint of regret. ��Too bad we can��t take this Map with us����


    ��Don��t you, the Observer, have a Virtual Realm Map?�� Sonya raised her hands and then pped them together with a snap: ��Can��t you invoke some kind of Fusion Miracle tobine them?��


    Sonya��s words sparked an epiphany in Ashe. He opened the Virtual Realm Map, and sure enough, a prompt popped up: ��Map information has been updated.��


    The ��Zoom�� button on the right side of the Virtual Realm Map was now marked with a red exmation point. Ashe had used the ��Zoom�� feature at the very beginning, but after erging, the other Areas remained unknown, so he hadn��t used this skill since, keeping the Map at the smallest scale.


    Now, clicking on ��Zoom,�� the Map expanded to itsrgest state, and Ashe saw what appeared to be a pizza pie cut into eight slices��most of the Map was still unknown territory, but roughly one-eighth of the Area was now revealed with various terrains, Resource Points, special Areas, and even the four Star Hall Main Cities were marked on it.


    Looking at this expansive Map, there was an irresistible urge to uncover every dark and unknown Area.


    In addition to that, Ashe noticed a small, distinct, known Area amidst the unknown. After closely examiningndmarks like ��Stone Mine Caves�� and ��River of Flowing Gold,�� he confirmed this was the ce they had explored the night before.


    It turns out the Virtual Realm Map has the ability to automatically record and create maps!


    And he had been oblivious to it all along!


    Although Ashe didn��t know how useful this map-recording feature would be��since each entry into the Virtual Realmnded them in different locations, and they had managed to navigate sessfully without a map before��he still felt a sense of loss. It was akin to the regret one might feel after confessing to a childhood friend, only to discover that the friend had harbored feelings for three years already. Why had he hesitated for so long?


    While the truth would have been apparent had he simply opened the Map, Ashe was still filled with gratitude towards Sonya, who reminded him: ��Swordswoman, I am so moved right now, I feel like kissing you.��


    ��No problem.��


    Sonya extended her hand, gesturing for Ashe to kiss it. Ashe nced at it: ��You��ve been swinging your sword with that hand; it��s not sweaty, is it��?��


    Sonya made a fist: ��Stand still, I can kiss you with my fist, and French kissing is also an option��as long as your mouth can fit my fist.��


    ��Why only kiss the Swordswoman? What about me?�� Deya eximed in shock. ��Observer, are you implying I haven��t done well enough?��


    ��Actually, if we were to distribute based on merit, it should be you kissing me,�� Ashe said with his arms crossed. ��But if we start using kisses to reward the most valuable yer after each Battle, it would be awkward�� Even if I don��t mind, you certainly would.��


    ��Let��s take this opportunity to establish some everyday etiquette. The most intimate actions between the three of us shall be limited to hugs and holding hands. Acts like kissing and caressing are too intimate and should be prohibited, as they might make another person ufortable.��


    Ashe paused: ��But what��s done in private is a different matter.��


    Sonya: ��What are you thinking?��


    Deya: ��I think I know what the Observer is thinking�� And it��s not happening! The White Queen wouldn��t, the Red Death Eater wouldn��t, the ck Butler wouldn��t, and neither would I!��


    ��The information on this Map has already been recorded onto my Virtual Realm Map,�� Ashe said, steering the conversation back to the main topic as if he hadn��t heard their banter. ��If we happen tond in an Area on the Map next time, we can explore nearby Resource Points and special Areas.��


    If the Commander��s Handbook was a sweet taste of sess for Ashe and hispanions, then this Resource Map was like a feast. However, its utility was quite limited; if it weren��t for Ashe��s ability to import external records into the Virtual Realm Map, he wouldn��t be able to enjoy this banquet at all.


    The Virtual Realm wouldn��t just generate a Map specifically for Ashe, so there was only one possibility��a Sorcerer proficient in a certain Faction could ��absorb�� this Map.


    A term almost subconsciously surfaced in Ashe��s mind: Prophecy Faction.


    Coincidentally, the Gospel Kingdom was a ce where the Prophecy Faction reigned supreme, unchallenged. Was it possible��? Ashe quickly snuffed out this ambitious thought. Rather than practicing the Prophecy Faction himself, it would be more efficient andfortable to hope for drawing an Operator from the Prophecy Faction.


    Ashe, oh Ashe, when faced with a challenge, remember not to first think about how to do it yourself, but how to delegate the work to the right person. The skill of delegating, learned in the Workce, should not be forgotten in a different world.


    Ashe quietly reflected on this oversight and then guiltlessly picked up the third piece of spoils.


    The third trophy was peculiar; although Ashe could tell it was a spirit by touch, it didn��t look anything like a spirit��it had no wings.


    At first nce, it appeared to be a hexagonal bipyramid, resembling an ornament that could be worn as an earring,pletely transparent but with one side emitting a blue glow.


    However, the information emanating from within it was eye-opening for any Sorcerer:


    ��Soul Summoning��


    ��Zero Wing Spirit��


    ��Restriction: Can only appear within the Virtual Realm, can only be used within the Virtual Realm.��


    ��Effect �� Soul Summoning: You can absorb the residual soul power of soldiers.��


    ��Effect �� Command: You can bestow troop types upon yourself and your followers, but bestowing troop types requires the consumption of soul power. A Sorcerer can grant the same troop type to multiple units, but only the armor can stack.��


    ��Below are the currently summonable troop types��


    ��Star Hall Star Swordsman: Swords deal +15% Soul Damage. Comes with 3yers of armor, humanoid form, and is equipped with a longsword. Each unit consumes 1 point of soul power.��


    ��Star Hall Star Archer: Shots deal +20% Soul Damage, and include precision locking aim that does not reduce damage with distance. Comes with 2yers of armor, humanoid form, and is equipped with a bow and arrows. Each unit consumes 2 points of soul power.��


    ��This spirit cannot evolve.��


    ��This spirit can unlock different troop types by absorbing spirits of the same name.��


    ��Only one of the same spirit can be owned.��


    ����Congrattions on bing a yer in this never-ending game, although you don��t even qualify to be a pawn.����

 Chapter 247: Who Are You To Me?

    Chapter 247: Who Are You To Me?


    ��Star Swordsman���� Sonya mulled over the term. ��Is that what the soldiers transformed from the Serpent-Scorpion Dragon just now?��


    The concept of a Soul Summoning Spirit was not difficult to grasp because they had just ruthlessly run over its creation with a sports car. In simple terms, this type of spirit umtes soul power by hunting other soldiers, then uses that power to bestow troop types upon itself or its followers.


    If one could hunt other heroic souls, they could seize their Soul Summoning Spirits for absorption and upgrades, unlocking more troop types.


    A single Sorcerer with a ��collect-exchange-upgrade�� system would cause a technical revolution in the world of Sorcerers if it were to spread.


    But it could not be disseminated.


    Firstly, it was impossible for it to appear in reality, meaning Sorcerers couldn��t take this spirit out for research in the real world. Furthermore��


    ��What does Zero Wing Spirit mean?�� Ashe was somewhat puzzled. ��Can a spirit have zero wings?��


    The only rustic girl present, who had received a formal education, shook her head. ��A spirit cannot be without wings. Just like us Sorcerers, a spirit��s wings represent its volume of knowledge, only without the arcane energy. A Quadruple Wings spirit symbolizes a legendary level of knowledge, while a Zero Wing Spirit means����


    ��It has no knowledge whatsoever,�� Deya interjected. ��It��s not made of knowledge.��A knowledge-less spirit seemed absurd, even to Ashe, a Mudblood Sorcerer. By definition, a spirit is a Virtual Realm creature condensed from knowledge. A spirit without knowledge is like a L Fatty without flesh, fundamentally negating the definition.


    ��Do you know?�� Sonya suddenly spoke up. ��Some spirits have more than one evolutionary path. For example, a Two Wings ��Sword Qi�� spirit can evolve into a Tri-wings ��Sword Qi�� spirit, but with special Training and nourishment, it can also evolve into a Tri-wings ��Sword Light�� spirit.��


    Many Low-rank Spirits can undergo mutations during evolution, sometimes transforming into rarer and more powerful spirits. Sorcerers have recorded these phenomena, andter discovered that they could de-evolve High-rank Spirits into Low-rank Spirits using certain methods. These Low-rank Spirits, with their ��experience,�� can more easily evolve into High-rank Spirits.


    A special summoning technique was born from this understanding: Sorcerers would de-evolve an easily obtained High-rank Spirit into a Low-rank Spirit, then through targeted training, elevate and mutate the Low-rank Spirit back into the desired High-rank Spirit.


    Some Noble Sorcerers would even intentionally de-evolve powerful spirits to One Wing, specifically for their Descendants to use.


    In other words, it��s not impossible for a Sorcerer to devolve a Quadruple Wings Spirit into a One Wing Spirit if they so choose.


    Sonya nced at the Triangr Dipyramid in Ashe��s hand. ��Perhaps the Soul Summoning Spirit is a devolved spirit. It��s too perfect. It��s not without knowledge; on the contrary, its knowledge is vast. I don��t believe it��s a native spirit of the Time Continent. I wouldn��t doubt it if it was a Quadruple Wings Spirit.��


    ��It��s likely a Legend Spirit created from the Fusion of multiple spirits, and Zero Wing is a type of seal that brings it down to a level that a heroic soul can use.��


    Ashe nodded in agreement. After all, the heroic souls of the Time Continent were only Two Wings Sorcerers. For them to use a Quadruple Wings Spirit would be like using a toothpick to stir a cauldron �Cpletely beyond their capabilities.


    However, Sonya mentioned a new term, prompting Ashe to ask, ��Fusion?��


    ��Fusion is a special summoning method that only advanced Sorcerers can attempt,�� exined Sonya. ��Simply put, it involves merging multiple spirits into a new one. For example, I couldbine Moon Silk, Rapids, and Vibration Sword into a new spirit, ��Water Moon Rapids.�� This way, I can invoke the Miracle of Water Moon by activating just one spirit.��


    ��But wouldn��t that mean your three spirits are gone?��


    ��Correct, they��re gone,�� Sonya nodded. ��A Fusion spirit is actually designed to invoke specific Miracles, but it can only invoke Miracles, which is a significant limitation. Only Sorcerers above the Sanctuary level would deal with Fusion spirits, because they might encounter situations that require invoking multiple Miracles at once. In those cases, Fusion spirits can greatly reduce the mental effort required.��


    ��The power of Soul Summoning spirits is formidable but also highly specialized, and it��s very likely that they have devolved from high-level Fusion spirits to Zero Wing. Such a spirit might not mean much in the higher echelons of the Virtual Realm, where the soldiers we fear could easily be subdued by a Legend Sorcerer. But on the Time Continent, it bes the cornerstone for the heroic soul legion to sweep away all before them.��


    Deya understood as well: ��It sounds like the story of an imperial Princess who sneaks off to the frontier to punch above her weight starting from zero.��


    Ashe nced at the Witch��her description was notably detailed.


    Although they could roughly guess the origin of the Soul Summoning spirit, it was clear that this was not something they could research at their level. It would be best to simply be consumers.


    So, who should control this spirit?


    Since the troop type includes ��Star Swordsman��, in theory, Sonya would be the most appropriate choice to use it. However, she had already taken the Commander��s Handbook, and to take the Soul Summoning spirit as well might even make a rustic girl a bit embarrassed.


    But Ashe had a different idea: ��Speaking of which, what exactly are you to me?��


    Sonya and Deya blinked, exchanged nces, and then looked at Ashe.


    ��Family?�� Deya asked. ��But it��s weird to say that. Why would you want strangers to be your family�� Don��t you have any family, Observer?��


    ��Retainers!�� Ashe said loudly, seeing that they didn��t get it. ��The Exploration in Virtual Realm is my team, and you��re my team members, theoretically my retainers.��


    Sonya got it: ��You mean, if you take the Soul Summoning spirit, you could assign the troop type to us?��


    ��That��s a possibility.�� Ashe held the Soul Summoning spirit. ��So, I��ll take it?��


    ��I sort of want it���� Deya eyed the new spirit with a touch of eagerness. ��You can have this one, but next time there��s something fun, you have to let me have it!��


    Sonya also spoke up, ��You take it. Even if it can��t be bestowed upon us, the troop armor can at least increase your safety coefficient. As you said, you��re the Captain, and the most important thing about the team is you. Without you, we can��t be driving a sports car while looking at the Map and Exploring the Virtual Realm�� You need to take better care of yourself.��


    ��But without you guys, I wouldn��t be able to explore the Virtual Realm so easily either,�� Ashe tightened his grip on the Soul Summoning spirit. ��If it can��t be bestowed upon you, then we��ll each take one, consider it a small team benefit����


    As Ashe gainedplete control over the Soul Summoning spirit, fog-like energy suddenly rose around the cave and surged towards him like swallows returning to their nest. The Sorcerers couldn��t react in time, and Sonya anxiously asked, ��Observer, what��s happening to you?��


    ��I��m fine, put your sword down first, I��m scared.��


    ��But it seemed like an evil soul had devoured your Soul just now. I need to verify it��s really you: ��I feel as light as a balloon, yet only a thin string ties me down to the ground������


    Ashe pounced to knock Sonya over, straddling her waist in an attempt to cover her mouth.


    Sonya pried his hands away with force, and spoke seriously, ��See, you��re possessed by an evil spirit, I need to continue quoting your famous sayings to awaken your memory. Swordswoman, to me, you�� if you dare spit, we��re through!��


    As Ashe was about to make a spitting gesture, Sonya surrendered immediately. Deya, curious, squatted beside them and asked, ��Why is the Observer so agitated? Is this some kind of spell?��


    ��I��ll tell you privately when we have timeter,�� Sonya said cheerfully.


    ��Then you��re done for, you��ll never have free time again, not in your entire life,�� Ashe said coldly.


    ��That was the Soul Summoning spirit��s first effect: Soul Summoning. The residual Soul power of the Star Swordsmen we killed was automatically absorbed into the spirit, and now I have 3 points of Soul power, just enough to try to bestow the troop type on you.��


    Without waiting for Sonya to refuse, Ashe pointed at Deya and dered, ��Witch Evolution��Star Sword Witch!��


    Suddenly, deep blue mes erupted from Deya��s body, sweeping along her form and transforming into exquisite body-hugging armor. In each hand, she wielded a slender Thrust Sword and donned a full-coverage helmet, with only her eyes visible to Ashe and Sonya through the helmet��s breathing holes.


    ��How does it feel?��


    ��My body seems a little lighter.�� The newly transformed Star Witch swung her Thrust Swords: ��The armor and weapons are weightless, making movement veryfortable. Wait a moment����


    She discarded the Thrust Swords, touched her fists together, and pulled apart, drawing out three water threads: ��I can still use my spirit normally, which means treating the troop type as additional defensive armor is no issue.��


    ��Good,�� Ashe said. ��The trial isplete. If we have a chance, let��s test the Combat effectiveness tomorrow night.��


    Sonya poked Ashe in the waist and then pointed at herself.


    ��What?��


    ��What about me?��


    ��What about you?��


    ��Why didn��t you let me try? The Star Swordsman would have suited me better.��


    ��Anyone could have tried, and having the Witch test it also allows us to see if she can use abilities like water thread and Fist and w attacks while in troop status.��


    ��Hmm, good reasoning. Anything else?��


    ��Also, you annoyed me just now, so I had to get back at you.�� Ashe poked Sonya��s forehead with his finger. ��Otherwise, I would have calmed down in a bit.��


    ��It was just a joke���� Sonya muttered, rubbing her forehead.


    ��Witch,e here!�� Ashe called out to Deya, who was doing somersaults. ��No other issues?��


    ��None!�� Deya gave a thumbs up. ��The experience is great; let��s fight in this gear from now on!��


    ��I��d like that too.�� Ashe shrugged and exchanged a nce with Sonya. ��The sports car is about to explode, and everyone��s tired, so let��s call it a night for Exploration in Virtual Realm.��


    ��Okay.��


    ��Alrighty!��


    Deya crisply nodded her head, ready to disengage from the Virtual Realm. However, she looked down to see her left hand grasped by the Observer and her right by the Swordswoman.


    ��Exploration in Virtual Realm is over, but we still have half an hour before the Static Domain arrives, so we have half an hour for the tea party.��


    Ashe and Sonya pulled Deya aside to sit down.


    ��Witch, your hair color was mixed during the Battle, and your voice turned into a strange polyphony,�� Sonya said. ��Even though you��ve calmed down, we can��t pretend nothing happened.��


    ��We��ve only known each other for a few days, so it might not seem appropriate to say we��re ��worried�� or offer ��help,�� but it would be too hard to just ignore this,�� Ashe tilted his head. ��Actually, we were waiting for you to speak up first, but since you didn��t, we had to bring it up ourselves.��


    ��Of course, if you don��t want to talk about it, I can understand. After all, we might not be able to help.��


    ��But if you��re willing to talk, we��ll listen attentively.��

 Chapter 248: I Cant Afford to Spend Money on the Observer!

    Swordflower College, Harvest Orchard.


    Mifa put on her work uniform and stepped out of the treehouse, ready to start her shift for the day. She looked up, and the luminous star��s sunlight shamelessly clung to her, making the entire orchard its captive. The sun was scorching, even though the weather forecast had promised a sunny yet cloudy day��it��s no wonder Gxia��s clouds were like nobles, straying off course by mid-morning.


    Although the orchard��s ss Wall shielded her from the heat, Mifa didn��t really enjoy working in such a bright environment.


    Her hometown was known as the City of Fruits, but the price was at least twenty hours of intense sunlight each day. When she first arrived in Gxia, she would lie on thewn every night, stargazing, and sometimes even fell asleep right there��sleeping without light piercing her eyes was absolutely wonderful.


    After greeting the other part-time students, Mifa went to her tree counter and sat down. In front of her were rows of ��fruit trees,�� but instead of fruit, the trees bore ��fluorites�� that sealed spirits.


    Enclosed by the ss Wall, the orchard had hundreds of trees, each with at least twenty fruits. This meant there were thousands of sealed spirits in the orchard, including many high-level spirits with two-wings or even three wings.


    This was the Spirit Trading Center of Swordflower College, Harvest Orchard.


    Much like the Forest Library, Swordflower College didn��t like building conventional trading centers. Instead, they used this orchard setup, allowing students to see various Rare Spirits hanging above them every time they entered, which was way more thrilling than browsing a spirit catalog.


    You could see them but couldn��t pick them��how tantalizing!


    Although it appeared unguarded, this orchard was the work of a legendary spellcaster. Thest student who tried to steal a fruit almost became a part of the trees. Not only could it prevent spirits from retaliating against thieves, but it could also use the trees as a medium to continuously nourish the spirits. Even in Gxia, it was a renowned trading tform for spirits��though its spirit quality wasn��t as high as Truth College��s ��Tomb of Knowledge.��


    However, regarding the work environment, Mifa had noints. After all, most of the time, she sat behind the counter browsing forums on the veil.


    Although Mifa wasn��t a native of Gxia, she wasn��t poor either. Her parents were spellcaster specialists at the local Bureau of Agriculture, and they were quite well-off. Thanks to her family��s influence, Mifa was able to get into Swordflower College.


    It was also due to her parents�� advice that Mifa started participating in the college��s work-study program from her freshman year. She didn��t really need the money, but working for the college offered rewards beyond pay; it also provided Swordflower Points.


    Swordflower Points weren��t a form of currency but rather a metric for evaluating students. Students could earn points by winning academicpetitions, ranking high in final exams, or inventing miracle procedures. umting points would elevate a student��s status, with levels ranging from ordinary white student, excellent green student, honor gold student, to legendary orange student.


    Naturally, there were benefits to rising in student status, and most students were eager to engage in campus life to earn points.


    However, most students had been top achievers in their local areas before being admitted to Swordflower College. Upon arriving at college, they naturally believed they could earn points through awards and top rankings. Even Mifa, on her first day here, had thoughts like ��I��m going to study hard,�� ��I want to be in the top three of my grade,�� ��I��m going to participate inpetitions,�� and ��If Truth College tries to recruit me, should I ept?��


    Reality quickly sobered these proud students. Now, they werepeting with geniuses of the same age, and only a very few could truly stand out. The rest were just background characters, mere supporting roles.


    However, it took most students about one or two years to fully recognize and ept their mediocrity. By that time, they had fewer opportunities to earn points and would likely graduate as ��ordinary students.��


    Mifa, who had been repeatedly advised by her parents, took the most reliable path from the beginning: working.


    Though not a lot, working for Swordflower College was the most stable way to earn points.


    Her parents had already calcted that as long as Mifa continued working for four years and graduated normally as a spellcaster, she could graduate as an ��honor student.��


    The benefits of being an ��honor student�� were immense. Not only could one retain their student status indefinitely, but even after graduation, they could continue to use the college��s facilities. Moreover, Swordflower College prioritized hiring honor students for faculty positions!


    If Mifa could secure a job at Swordflower College, she could settle down in Gxia!


    Unlike her parents, who were assigned to an agricultural city after graduation, enduring twenty hours of sunlight each day. Although their quality of life was decent, they could only glimpse the bustling city life through TV dramas on the veil.


    Settling in Gxia and bing a ��preparatory noble�� was not only her parents�� hope but also Mifa��s aspiration.


    However, she wasn��t working just for the points; she genuinely enjoyed her part-time job at the orchard.


    Every day, students came to purchase or sell spirits, giving Mifa a glimpse into their lives. Some students, usually low-profile, thrived in the Virtual Realm; others bought spirits from different Sects, seemingly nning to switch Sects; some spent a fortune on spirits not belonging to their Sect, perhaps as a birthday gift for a lover��


    Buying and selling spirits required real money, making it the most direct form of voting.


    Additionally, working at Harvest Orchard provided the chance to encounter the school��s celebrities, like The Orange Dancer, Vlozrada, and-


    Creak.


    The ss door opened, and the first customer of the day walked down the orchard path. Mifa looked at the guest and instinctively held her breath, feeling like the sunlight on her skin was getting hotter.


    ��Mifa, good morning.��


    Sonya sat down in front of her and smiled, ��What a coincidence, you��re on duty again today.��


    Mifa suppressed her excitement and nodded vigorously, ��Yes, what a coincidence.��


    Not a coincidence at all. Mifa had asked her supervisor to schedule her in the mornings and hadn��t taken a day off for a month. She knew that Sonya woulde to Harvest Orchard to offload her spoils after entering the Virtual Realm, so she stayed at the counter.


    If anyone in the school knew the most about the growth of the Red-Haired Sword Princess, Mifa dared to say it was herself, even more than Professor Trozan.


    The first time Sonya came to sell spirits, Mifa was the one who served her. Due to her good looks and the bond of being outsiders, they hit it off and became chatty friends right away. Back then, Mifa thought of her as a ��kind and talented female spellcaster.��


    But soon, Mifa realized that ��talented�� was an understatement for someone like Sonya. The Red-Haired Sword Princess woulde by every two or three days to sell spirits, and the sheer volume made Mifa wonder if there had been any news about ��spirit warehouse thefts�� or a ��red-haired female phantom thief.��


    It wasn��t just the quantity, either. Mifa noticed that most of the spirits Sonya sold were dropped by de Fish Dragons, as if she were being hunted by the de Fish Dragon Protection Association in the Virtual Realm. de Fish Dragons were the most likely knowledge creatures to drop Swordsmanship Orbs, and based on the number of creatures Sonya had in, she must have absorbed at least one orb, maybe even two-a conjecture that could cure low blood pressure among Swords Sect students.


    Adding to the rumors that Sonya had emerged full-winged from the Whirlpool overnight, Mifa��s gaze toward her grew increasingly filled with admiration.


    Sonya wasn��t just some talented female spellcaster.


    She was a girl favored by the divine clock, a spellcaster watched by the Stars!


    Mifa firmly believed that the next era would bear the name Sonya Therave!


    So, Mifa joined Sonya��s fan club, following her life closely and hoping the club president would provide more updates on the Red-Haired Sword Princess��s daily activities. It��s hard to describe, but just knowing that Sonya was training hard every day and had recently summoned a new swordsmanship spirit made Mifa feel energized herself.


    She was destined to be an unnoticed minor star, but she yearned to follow the path of a legendaryet.


    ��Let��s sell these spirits first,�� Sonya said, disying four spirits. Mifa immediately scanned them with her work wristband to determine their prices.


    The news of Sonya��s soul recovery and her sudden departure from a friend��s party to explore the Virtual Realm had already spread across the school��s veil the night before, so Mifa wasn��t surprised by Sonya��s haul.


    However, something seemed a bit odd��although all four were One-Winged Spirits, the ��Fierce w�� spirit was quite rare in the Sea of Knowledge. If Mifa remembered correctly, the primary source of ��Fierce w�� spirits should be the Dire Wolf Dragon, a pack animal from the Time Continent.


    A bold guess swirled in Mifa��s mind, but she didn��t say anything. Instead, she continued to serve Sonya as usual, providing the buyback prices for the spirits and finally saying, ��Since your student level is ��outstanding student,�� the selling price is increased by 5%, which has been ounted for.��


    Sonya��s schrship from the previous term had naturally earned her many Swordflower points, and selling spirits to the Harvest Orchard also increased her points��Swordflower College encouraged students to sell their Virtual Realm gains to the school to expand its spirit variety.


    However, due to the varying quality of students, the top-ranked student spirit tform in Gxia was Truth College��s ��Tomb of Knowledge,�� while the ��Harvest Orchard�� might only rank in the top three. In fact, there were five contenders for those top three spots.


    As an ��outstanding student,�� Sonya received a 5% increase in selling prices, a 5% discount on purchase prices, and waived consignment fees for selling spirits at the Harvest Orchard. For an ordinary spellcaster, these benefits might be negligible, but for a high-volume seller like Sonya, the 5% discount could potentially cause the school to lose money.


    Of course, the school��s losses had nothing to do with Mifa. If she could, she would offer a 500% discount.


    Sonya chose to sell everything and said, ��I want to purchase miracles and spirits.��


    The ��Harvest Orchard�� was associated with the Astral Hall, whichpiled the Star Miracles Directory, allowing students to purchase miracle procedures directly from there.


    ��Please proceed,�� Mifa said.


    ��First, I��m looking for an attack miracle based on Sword Mark and Heart Sword, preferably without other rare spirits.��


    Mifa checked her records: ��There are three miracles that meet your criteria: the Mid-tier True Golden ��Heart Pen�� valued at 15 gold coins, the Lower-tier Radiant Golden ��Sword Prison�� valued at 58 gold coins, and the Upper-tier Radiant Rainbow ��Heart Form�� valued at 100 rainbow coins. Would you like to see the effect visuals for these miracles?��


    ��No need,�� Sonya replied, her face darkening. ��I can��t afford any of them.��


    This is the downside of rare spirits����Heart Sword,�� as one of the Five Spirits of the Peerless Secret Sword, forms the basis for high-level Miracles. The most expensive one, ��Heart Form,�� is an Upper-tier Radiant Rainbow Miracle, extremely powerful even in the hands of a Sanctuary spellcaster. If it were based on ��sh sword�� + ��Sword Mark,�� she could definitely find a bunch of cheaper Upper-tier Radiant Silver Miracles.


    However, after a moment of hesitation, Sonya said, ��Let me see the effect of ��Heart Pen��.��


    Mifa turned the Holographic Screen around, allowing Sonya to watch the demonstration of Heart Pen.


    The screen was transparent, and while Sonya watched it, Mifa pretended to look nonchntly from behind.


    The Red-Haired Sword Princess is truly amazing! It��s always you who astonishes me. Only tomorrow��s Red-Haired Sword Princess can surprise me more! You looked so cool during your duel with The Orange Dancer, though you��re always this cool! How can you be so incredible! Remember to take good care of yourself, eat well, sleep well, and be happy every day!


    Oh no, it��s a pity you��ll be going to the Virtual Realm without sleep. I really wish the club president would take more pictures of you sleeping�� Sorry, that was too much, but I really want to see it!


    ����Alright, thank you.��


    ��Do you want to buy it?��


    The vige girl absentmindedly bit her finger, not caring about how this small gesture might excite her fan: ����Not for now.��


    It wasn��t that she didn��t have 15 gold coins, or that she was unwilling to spend 15 gold coins on a Miracle procedure for the Observer, but buying it would halve her liquid assets, leaving her with very low risk tolerance. And�� alright, she just didn��t want to spend 15 gold coins on the Observer.


    She hadn��t even spent 15 gold coins on herself!


    Little Trumpet, if only it were possible to trade spirits in the Virtual Realm, Sonya would rather research a new Miracle herself than spend 15 gold coins on someone else��s procedure!


    The thought of spending such arge sum of money made her stomach churn, even if her wallet could handle it. She would lose her appetite!


    Moreover, the Observer��s ��Sword Art�� Miracle was still usable, even if it was a bit lousy��


    Maybe in the future, she could obtain a spirit that betterplements ��Heart Sword����


    Currently, the team��sbat strength was sufficient��


    Sonya convinced herself in three sentences not to spend the 15 gold coins and continued to ask, ��Is there a spirit that can quickly calm someone down?��


    ��There are many,�� Mifa replied. ��Calm Mind, Tranquil Heart, Mind Cleanse�� they��re mostly from the Mental Sect.��


    Spirits from the Mental Sect had no ws other than being expensive. Although cheaper than Miracle procedures, they were still costly enough to make the vige girl cry at night. Suddenly, she remembered something and asked, ��Are there any Miracle procedures that include the ��sincerity�� spirit and can quickly calm a spellcaster?��


    Mifa gave a positive answer: ��Yes.��


    When the transaction waspleted, not only did Sonya fail to increase her assets, but she also lost one-sixth of her wealth. However, the vige girl was in a good mood, indicating that this investment should yield ideal returns.


    As Sonya prepared to leave, Mifa couldn��t suppress her enthusiasm for being close to her idol any longer and whispered, ��Good luck!��


    The vige girl looked at her, puzzled. ��What?��


    ��Good luck tonight!�� Mifa said, clenching her fist. ��I believe you can definitely win at Trajectory College!��


    Trajectory College?


    Sonya was taken aback. ��Wait, what do you mean?��


    ��Tonight, Swordflower College is having a social gathering with Trajectory College!�� Mifa said. ��You didn��t know?��


    ��I knew about it.�� Sonya had indeed heard about the event. Just like Truth College having a social gathering with Swordflower College, Swordflower College would naturally seek gatherings with other colleges. ��But what does that have to do with me?��


    Mifa was stunned. ��You��re one of the students in the social gathering, and I heard that Senior Sister Leoni voluntarily gave up the Chief battle slot for you to take on the Chief battle.��


    A Friendly Match typically consists of five rounds: Vanguard Battle, Forward Battle, Center Battle, Sub-chief Battle, and Chief Battle. When Sonya heard that she would be responsible for the Chief Battle, her first reaction was excitement. After all, the Chief Battle is a showdown between the strongest participants from both sides, and it meant that Swordflower College publicly acknowledged her as the strongest student this year!


    However, she quickly realized a problem: since the Chief Battle is the most anticipated, it is usually thest match.


    ����Mifa, do you know until what time the Friendly Match at the social evening usually runs?��


    ��It generally runs until 3 AM,�� Mifa thought for a moment and said. ��After each match, the teachers from both schools providementary and guidance. They might even hold an immediate rematch so that students can fight again under their teachers�� guidance�� After the five matches, there is usually a professor exhibition match.��


    ��That��s where the professor fights against five students from the visiting school. It��s the highlight of the evening.��


    ��Thest social evening would have also gone until 3 AM if it hadn��t been for an unexpected event.��


    In Stars, the more important a spellcaster event is, theter it is held, often aste as possible. This is because the stars represent the gaze of the Stars Sovereign. Although no one deliberately spreads the faith of the Stars Sovereign, everyone subconsciously reveres the starry sky and hopes to receive the favor of the starlight.


    Sonya blinked: ��So, when does the Chief Battle start?��


    ��Midnight.��

 Chapter 249: When Did You Meet a Wild Woman?

    ��If I could hate you,pletely despise you, and even avoid you whenever I see you����


    Igor hummed the theme song of a TV drama softly while jotting down his thoughts in his notebook. This meant he had just finished watching another series that ranked in the top ten of this year��s hot TV drama ranking list.


    Yes, even entertainment works have their own ranking lists. The points rewarded by the Gospel ranking list are proportionally distributed to investors, producers, actors, and behind-the-scenes staff. Because of these rankings, the quality of TV dramas in the Gospel Kingdom far surpasses those in the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    It��s not that Igor is biased against his own country. For instance, the Blood Moon Kingdom currently has a market dominated by traffic, where the most influential actors take the lion��s share of the benefits. In contrast, the TV dramas here are led by screenwriters. Screenwriters have as much say as directors, not only receiving the most benefits but also having the right to intervene in shooting and casting. Thus, the more popr the drama, the more perfect its story pacing bes, turning viewers into relentless binge-watchers who just want to see the next episode from the very first second.


    Apart from the script, the shooting equipment, techniques, dialogue skills, and actor selection��all aspects of the Gospel Kingdom��s entertainment industry, both in terms of software and hardware, overwhelmingly surpass the Blood Moon Kingdom. The gap between the two is as vast as that between the Time Continent and the Sea of Knowledge��they��re not even on the same level.


    Igor increasingly believes that the Blood Moon Kingdom is the most worthless country in the world. Its cities can��tpare to those of the Gospel Kingdom, its culture is inferior, and even its cult leaders are weaker than the Eternal Presence of the Gospel Kingdom. Besides having a rounder moon, the Blood Moon Kingdom has nothing of value.


    However, he wasn��t just idly watching TV dramas. He had been watching them at 8x speed over the past few days to observe the desires of the Gospel Kingdom.


    Entertainment works are reflections of contemporary people��s inner worlds, and the more popr they are, the truer this is. For example, romantic dramas in the Blood Moon Kingdom often start with a sudden ident, reflecting the Blood Moon people��s yearning for extraordinary rtionships and their dissatisfaction with their mundane lives.


    Simrly, many crime dramas feature protagonists being framed bypanies, council members, and government affairs operators, representing themon perception among the Blood Moon people.


    Even babies being taken to the wrong orphanage, where high-potential infants are sent to low-level orphanages and low-potential infants to high-level orphanages, and their lives intertwiningter in urban emotional dramas, reflect the Blood Moon residents�� obsession with orphanages.


    In recent years, apocalyptic dramas have been popr in the Blood Moon Kingdom. Sudden disasters destroy everything, and the protagonist rises to power amidst the chaos, representing the need for expansion ns in Blood Moon Prisons.


    Igor��s previous preparation involved investigating what types of dramas clients liked to watch. If the client enjoyed apocalyptic dramas, the conversation would steer towards criticizing society and expressing misanthropy. If the client liked romantic dramas, he would share his own love stories. Given his good looks, any love story seemed usible for him.


    The entertainment preferences of clients could reveal their desires, and the nation��s favorite dramas naturally reflected its most superficial conflicts.


    Igor gained a lot from his observations. First, the two most popr types of dramas in the Gospel Kingdom were ��professional dramas�� and ��domestic dramas,�� sometimes merging into one.


    Professional dramas focus on specific professions, including but not limited to Red Hats, professional gamers, cat��s cradlepetition yers, fashion designers, healers, chefs, and so on. The basic plot usually involves the protagonist joining a new industry, gradually learning and growing within it, and eventually making it to the Gospel ranking list, achieving sess in both career and love.


    Domestic dramas revolve around family feuds, often featuring a scenario where the older male protagonistcks talent, while the younger illegitimate male protagonist makes it to the Gospel ranking list at a young age. The two sides engage in open and covert battles for family inheritance.


    When these two genres merge, the result is a story where a rebellious protagonist, forced to inherit the family business, enters the ancestral trade, eventually bes the top in the industry, and makes it to the Gospel ranking list.


    For Igor, these were all very interesting genres. Professional dramas subtly conveyed the idea that ��no profession is superior or inferior.�� Unlike the Blood Moon Kingdom��s hollow propaganda, the Gospel Kingdom��s concept of professional equality was rooted in equal treatment. As long as your industry had a ranking list and you ranked highly, even if you were just a social drifter writing novels, you could earn points equivalent to those of a spellcaster professor.


    Domestic dramas, at first nce, seemed to be just about ordinary people��s curiosity about big families, but they clearly had a substantial real-world basis��inheritance distribution.


    Through intense binge-watching, Igor could now barely grasp the concept of family, though as a Con Artist, he still couldn��t understand why anyone would fight for their offspring. Nevertheless, he epted the existence of this strange phenomenon.


    If he understood correctly, parents in the Gospel Kingdom would leave their inheritance to their descendants, including the professional skills they had umted over their lifetime. If the parents were Chosen Ones on the ranking list, their children would find it easier to be Chosen Ones as well.


    It would be simple if there was only one child, but what if there were two? What if one child was talented and hardworking but not favored, while the other was favored but had no talent?


    This was the fertile ground for domestic dramas. The storylines resonated with the audience to varying degrees, which is why the ratings were so high.


    Whether it was professional dramas or domestic dramas, there was a key element in both: the Gospel ranking list.


    In fact, there wasn��t a single drama without the presence of the Gospel ranking list.


    It might be the trigger for conflict, the protagonist��s dream, or the driving force behind the plot. Everything could be traced back to the Gospel ranking list.


    It seemed that as long as you could make it onto the ranking list and be a Chosen One, all problems could be solved. Conversely, those who didn��t be Chosen Ones were the failures in the story.


    But that was no big deal. In the Blood Moon Kingdom, those without power or money were also considered redundant trash. Here, it was just reced with ranking list positions.


    There would always be something people chased after, a criterion that distinguished high from low. Even in an orphanage, the cute kids who were often praised held a more esteemed position than the snotty, unattractive ones.


    Igor didn��t think the ranking list was bad. On the contrary, he thought it was almost too good.


    Fair, just, and directly overseen by the Divine Sovereign�� Igor only used thesebels when deceiving particrly naive clients.


    Even a con artist like him found the Gospel ranking list absurdly overpowered, which spoke volumes about its influence.


    Compared to the Blood Moon Kingdom, which relied on the Moonshadow for societal stability and the Blood Saint for technological advancements, with other ns serving as cogs and fuel, the ranking list system of the Gospel Kingdom was superior by miles. It effortlessly drove people to strive for a lifetime, squeezing out everyone��s potential.


    When it came to utilizing the popce, the Blood Moon Sovereign should probably attend a master ss with the Omniscient Weaver on efficiency.


    He flipped through his notebook, noting that TV dramas also revealed peculiar psychological profiles of the citizens. For instance, most female protagonists were firmly established from the beginning, and no third party could interfere. There were also frequent eerie rumors about the ��sewer,�� with varying content, but they all highlighted the Gospel people��s fear of it.


    However, Igor was puzzled by the absence of court dramas.


    He was quite curious about the royal family of the Gospel Kingdom. The general public likely shared his curiosity. But since such dramas didn��t exist, it suggested that the royal family had banned their production.


    There were a few fairy tale animations featuring royal content, but Igor never watched cartoons. They were for children and a waste of time for him.


    Checking the time, Igor left the Audio-Visual Room and went to the living room for breakfast. He saw Ashe grumbling as he emerged from the game room.


    ��Were you ying virtual games all morning?��


    ��What else could I do? I haven��t spent any money, so I have to spend time leveling up and getting gear,�� Ashe replied irritably.


    ��No, I mean, don��t you have anything better to do in the morning?�� Igor was somewhat displeased. ��You don��t really think you��re here on vacation, do you? At least spend some time gathering intelligence, reading books, or watching documentaries.��


    Ashe thought for a moment. ��I��m investigating the characteristics of yers who enjoy virtual games, profiling their demographics, and trying to identify their pain points to empower our as-yet-unwritten n����


    ��Any results?��


    ��I just got killed for the tenth time in the wild. Shows that the yers here are a bunch of bastards.��


    ��Then why don��t you just stop ying?��


    ��But it��s fun. The storyline is good, the graphics are great, and even though I can��t beat other yers, I can still beat the monsters. Thebat feels amazing.��


    Ashe gritted his teeth. ��Actually, if I just spent a little money, I��d have a much better gaming experience. At least I could escape even if I couldn��t win. But I��m broke�� When is Annan going to give me some money?��


    ��If Annan doesn��t give you money, can��t you earn it yourself?��


    ��How?��


    ��Create a female character and lure male yers to give you gifts. Not only can you bypass the wristband restrictions, but Annan also won��t be able to control you.��


    Ashe looked troubled. ��But I don��t know how to act like a cute girl. I might not seed in luring male yers.��


    ��You��ve already skipped the psychological barrier of ��acting�� and are thinking about how to be cute? If I had met you earlier, you might have be my partner.�� Igor quipped. ��Your daughter is quite cute, isn��t she? Just mimic her usual behavior.��


    ��Imitating a little girl is too weird. No way, Aunt Bukin.��


    Ashe yfully sparred with Igor while asking, ��By the way, Igor, do you know any quick ways to calm someone down��without using a spirit?��


    ��I��ll teach you. Like this��make your hand into a knife shape, then chop at someone��s neck at a 45�� angle. They��ll probably calm down��forever.��


    ��Come on, Mr. Igor, please be merciful and teach me.��


    Igor looked at Ashe, who was sping his hands together in a pleading gesture and winking. His mind went nk for a moment.


    This might be the first time he��s asked me for something�� Igor, scratching his head impatiently, walked behind Ashe and chopped at the back of his neck with his hand.


    ��If you don��t want to say, you didn��t have to hit my neck!��


    ��To calm you down,�� Igor replied irritably. ��For someone like you, this method is enough. Different ages, appearances, heights, and races all have different ways to calm down. If you don��t get specific, this is all I can offer.��


    ��Oh oh oh!�� Ashe highly valued the advice of professionals. ��Hmm, the person in question is a well-built, skirt-loving, slightly shorter than me, 19-year-old beautiful human female who frequently changes her hair color and style. She��s lively,posed, aloof, and cunning, primarily using the Fist-w Sect��s techniques����


    ��Annan?��


    ��No, not Annan.��


    Igor was shocked. ����(�á㧥��;)�� When did you meet another wild woman?��

 Chapter 250: Harveys New Companion

    Chapter 250: Harveys New Companion


    ��Really, an online friend you met in the game?��


    ��What else? I don��t have any other way to meet people besides through the game. It��s not like I could be socializing with other women in the Virtual Realm, right?��


    Can you not consider that you��re lying to the face of the second-ranked Genius Con Artist on the ��Two Wings Mind Ranking Azura Sub-Ranking��? Your eyes instinctively shift right, avoiding eye contact, fidgeting with your fingers unconsciously, and most importantly, your infant-level facial expression management totally gives you away!


    But the woman isn��t the point. The point is that Ashe is still able to make contact with the outside world right under my nose�� No wonder he doesn��t seem to care about the Contract with Annan. It seems he has some cards yet to be revealed.


    That��s to be expected, after all, he is a Cult Leader on the same level as Eternal Cmity.


    And Eternal Cmity is capable of directly confronting the Tri-wings Sorcerers of the Sanctuary. Ashe couldn��t possibly be that useless �C useless is tolerable, but naive too?


    Igor has been pondering how Ashe got to the position of Cult Leader in the first ce. Maybe this is the answer.


    He used to think that without him, Ashe and Harvey might have be Banjeet��s sessors, glowing and heating for Annan for a lifetime; or perhaps Ashe would be forced to be a doting father, tending to Lise for life��


    But now, it seems he might have been too full of himself����Hey.��


    Ashe notices Igor zoning out and snaps his fingers, ��Didn��t take a shower? Why do you look so out of it this morning?��


    Igor blinks, ��A shower?��


    ��Don��t you shower every morning? You just came out of the Audio-visual Room, so you must have been watching videos since leaving the Virtual Realmst night, right? Remember to keep it in moderation, Bewitcher.�� Ashe wags his finger seriously, indicating that such behavior won��t do.


    ��You knew?��


    ��I��ve looked for you in the Prison several times in the morning, and each time I could smell the shampoo. My nose isn��t broken,�� Ashe said with crossed arms. ��Well, everyone has their own morning routine. I have to let out a big yawn to wake up, even if I��m not sleepy�� By the way, since we have a pool and a steam bath here, how about we go for a soakter?��


    Igor nced at him, surprised, and swept his fringe behind his ear with his left hand, ��I��ve already showered�� Huh, you��re only trying to bond with me now?��


    Ashe, not embarrassed at having his motive exposed, retorted, ��What else can I do? Pee with you?��


    ��Even middle-schoolers don��t make friends like you do,�� Igor shook his head. ��Because I haven��t met you in person, I can only tell you the moremon ways to soothe. If I use this method, I can generally calm women under the age of 20. But in your case����


    ��I can do it too!��


    ��You can��t.��


    ��I can!��


    ��Your looks don��t guarantee such a high sess rate.��


    As they chatted, they made their way to the living room where Banjeet, as always, had prepared breakfast, and Lise was already sitting at the table, eating her breakfast with proper etiquette.


    ��Is Annan not here?�� ��Did Harvey oversleep?��


    Banjeet shushed them with a finger to his ear, ��Listen.��


    As Ashe and Igor listened carefully, they heard a buzzing sound approaching from the balcony, as if some machine was flying towards the sun!


    Buzz��


    A hovercar floated outside the balcony. Banjeet went to open the balcony��s rail, allowing the hovercar to dock��so the balcony was actually a parking spot!?


    The car door opened, and Annan, dressed in a purple mini skirt, thigh-high boots, a small vest, and a fisherman��s hat, jumped down. Although she still predominantly wore purple, she styled it differently every day, not because purple gave her beauty, but because she gave life to the color purple.


    Harvey got out carrying a suitcase, seemingly changed into a more fashionable outfit, wearing a cap, which, along with his dark skin, suddenly made him look like a sporty young person.


    After they got out, the hovercar automatically detached from the balcony and descended, while the balcony rail closed back up.


    ��Take your time eating, I��ll pass on breakfast,�� Annan yawned. ��I need to catch up on some sleep in the Virtual Realm�� It��s been a while since I��ve stayed up this long.��


    ��Why not start with a cup of coffee for a pick-me-up?�� Banjeet suggested. ��Coffee beans from Rhode Ind, three sugars, two scoops of milk����


    ��Alright, since you��re offering so hospitably, Banjeet.��


    Harvey nodded at them and pushed his suitcase towards his room. As he passed by, Ashe took Lise��s hand until Harvey��s figure disappeared down the corridor.


    Then they looked at Annan, who shook her head, ��It��s what you��re thinking.��


    ��But it��s not scavenged, it��s purchased. Even though it��s a gray area transaction, at least it won��t result in a demerit from the Gospel.��


    Ashe covered Lise��s ears, ��I thought you randomly picked a fortunate vagrant.��


    ��No need for that. Although not many people buy, the industry is well-regted. Spending a bit of money gets you the materials you want, which is much more convenient than looking for a suitable vagrant.��


    ��But didn��t Harvey lose yesterday?�� Igor inquired. ��What did our Necromancer do to win your favor? How about me?��


    ��Yes, he lost, so I took him on a small missionst night,�� Annan exined. ��When we came back, I fulfilled my promise and also bought him a gift.��


    ��A gift!��


    Lise broke free from Ashe��s grip, ��What gift?��


    ��Uncle Harvey got a 1:1 scale horror doll. Dare to enter his room, and I guarantee you won��t want to go to the Restroom alone at night,�� Ashe said.


    ��I��m not afraid of dolls!��


    ��Really�� are you sure?��


    ��Waaah!��


    On one side, Ashe scared Lise with his uncanny ability to make ghastly faces, and on the other, Igor was somewhat taken aback, ��You took Harvey on a missionst night? What kind of mission?��


    ��You��ll find out when it��s your turn,�� Annan replied, taking the coffee from Banjeet with a smile. ��Isn��t it nice to keep a little mystery between us?��


    So,st night Harvey was taken by Annan for a secret talk?


    Igor��s first thought was that Annan was attempting to break their ranks by winning them over one by one, but he sensed it wasn��t that simple. Annan was like an unfathomably deep pool of water; one might only intend to drink from the surface, yet a careless move could drag one into its depths, drowning them.


    Maybe it would be a good idea to ask Harveyter�� But even that might be part of a scheme, especially if there was something Harvey wasn��t keen on sharing. Igor��s inquiry could easily create a rift.


    While Annan leisurely sipped her coffee, Igor was lost in thought, and sensing the odd atmosphere, Ashe turned to Lise, ��Did you really like that hover car earlier? Why keep staring at the balcony?��


    ��I��m waiting.��


    ��Waiting for what?��


    ��Here ites!��


    A drone carrying cargo passed through the balcony and into the living room, deposited its load, and buzzed away. Ashe had an epiphany, ��You��ve been shopping on the Curtain, haven��t you?��


    ��Yes!��


    ��What did you buy?��


    ��Something pretty, fun, interesting, cute, beautiful, and glowing����


    ��What kind of item packs all these features at once?��


    ��I didn��t buy just one thing.��


    Buzz��


    A hair-raising drone of multiple drones filled the air as they swarmed in. They looked to see a fleet of drones, each carrying goods, staging a surprise assault on the living room!

 Chapter 251: The Gift

    Chapter 251: The Gift


    Although I appreciate the speed of delivery, this also Ashe watched the hurried drones as they efficiently returned to their own airspace. Isnt it a bit rude? Isnt this like barging into someones home?


    Its not too bad. Annan, with an air of seeing too much fuss about nothing, said, The Almo Drone Logistics system ranks third on the Tech Revolution Ranking in the past Ten Years. Its efficiency, safety, and interconnectedness are all top-notch. Although Belia and Tafa are close behind, they too rely on Almos technology to catch up It was a bit annoying at first, but you get used to it over time.


    Cant it be a bit more polite? Igor, who was very particr about his private space, also had someints about this delivery system. Like maybe cing the packages on the balcony


    Theres a risk of damage if left outside, and the buyer might forget about it. It has to be ced in the living room where the customer is most likely to notice, Annan exined. I havent looked into it in detail, but this delivery system is definitely the most advanced sincepanies like Almo undoubtedly develop following the guidelines of the Gospel. If they took a wrong turn or stalled, Belia and Tafa would surely catch up.


    Because it is guided by the Gospel, it is the most advanced; because it is the most advanced, it is justified?


    Both Igor and Ashe felt there was something off with this logic but couldnt quite pinpoint it.


    As they chatted, Lise had already gone over to start unpacking the parcel. The box featured convenient snap fasteners, easy enough for even a little girl to open by hand. Banjeet squatted nearby and asked, Need help?


    No need! Lise cheerfully responded, pulling a blue velvet gift box from the package. For you!


    Banjeet blinked in surprise, pointing to himself, For me?


    Yes, a gift for Banjeet!


    Thank you! Banjeet epted the box with a look of pleasantly surprised, finding inside a Sapphire Earring that was delicately crafted and brilliantly glowing. He put it on himself, and although it looked nice,pared to Annans Amethyst Earring, the Sapphire Earring seemed a bit gaudy and even a bit overwhelming.


    Or rather, it was the presence of the Sapphire Earring that made Ashe and others realize the true worth of Annans Amethyst Earringit was beautiful without being cloying, dazzling without being loud, enhancing the wearers charm while naturally blending into their persona, and it even subtly seemed to possess effects like enchantment from the Miracle category.


    Exchanging these rare jewels for their three lives, the Four Pirs Cult had certainly been taken for a ride by Annan.


    However, Banjeet was happily ruffling Lises hair: I really like it, thank you Lise.


    Then Lise handed another gift box to Annan, who was drinking coffee: Annan, this is for you.


    Annan raised his eyebrows slightly, Thank you, may I open it now?


    Of course!


    The gift Lise gave to Annan was a moon-white fox dragon hairpin. Although it looked somewhat childish, Annan seemed to really like it. He clipped it near the ends of his hair by his ear, making his demeanor appear more lively.


    And theres this its a gift from Aunt Bukin!


    Is it a dress? Ashe asked.


    Not exactly, but close. Lise pulled out an item that looked very much like a dress: Aunt Bukin will definitely look great in it!


    Igor took it and found it was a skirt-like garment that could be worn over pants as a decorative piece. The garment had many hidden pockets, which Igor found surprisingly useful. For a Mind Sorcerer who excelled at strategizing and preparing the battlefield in advance, the more secret pockets there were, the more pre-battle preparations he could make, even carrying several types of enchantment drugs.


    Ashe seemed to notice Igors satisfaction with the gift and teased, Aunt Bukin, you surely dont like this type of clothing, right? After all, you didnt pick up Lise and spin her around to show your happiness How about giving it to me? I like this style!


    Igor nced at him, then waved to Lise, who was looking hopeful, and lifted her up to spin around: Youre quite heavy.


    Lise pouted and lightly punched his head, Aunt Bukin is so rude!


    Sorry, little girls arent exactly in my line of business.


    At that moment, Harvey seemed to have finally settled the guest he had brought back and stepped out of the room, a Catnip Cigarette dangling unlit from his lips, curiously observing the scene in the living room, Hmm?


    Uncle Harvey! Lise eximed as she dug out a gift the size of a notebook from a pile of parcels, This is for you!


    Do I get a gift too? The Necromancer tucked the Catnip Cigarette behind his ear, calmly saying, Thank you a notebook?


    No, its a ck and white mind-printing notebook, Lise exined. You just need to press it against the paper and it can print the images from your mind onto the notebook. Uncle Harvey, you often stand by the window looking at the scenery; I thought youd definitely like to draw.


    Thats hardly drawing But thanks anyway. Harvey pocketed the notebook and hesitated before pulling out a piece of candy, Uncles treat


    Ashe hadnt even reacted before his body, bound by a Contract, rushed forward and tangled up with the Necromancer. Harvey quickly intervened to block Ashes attack, saying, Its real candy! I dont have enough Moon Sugar for myself, let alone to give away! This is the real sugar I use to satisfy my craving for Moon Sugar!


    For safetys sake, Lise, you better not eat any candy from Uncle Harvey, Igor advised. Though I can treat Sugar Addiction, its a bit brain-damagingdamaging to the patients brain. If Harvey gets the sugar wrong, Ashe might end up sttered in a deadly showdown with the Necromancer.


    Lise doesnt like sweets; she only likes soft, red velvet cream cakes.


    Having said that, Lise went back to her breakfast, while Ashe pinned Harvey down, eagerly watching the young girl with white hair spreading custard on her toast.


    Under everyones awkward nces, Ashe helped Harvey up, then sat next to Lise, Cough, cough, cough


    Harvey sharply pped Ashe on the back, A pat on the back for shortness of breath, no need to thank me, consider it a return favor for earlier.


    Igor nced at the embarrassed Ashe, his lips curling into a smirk. Lise, you bought so many gifts. Is there one for the only zero-star Genius in this house?


    Yes, Lise replied, her mouth full of bread crumbs. But someone is very angry and doesnt want to give it to him.


    Why angry?


    Becausest night, during a game, someone used tricks to knock over a chair, causing a loss, and it kept them up all night. So now, they dont want to give him the gift.


    The rooms gaze shifted towards Ashe, now tinged with disdaina Con Artist stooping so low as to cheat in a game against a little girl, even Igor felt ashamed to associate with such behavior.


    Even a Con Artist, since the age of five, wouldnt deceive a little girl!


    Really? Youre still thinking about that after a whole night!? Ashe was shocked. Arent kids supposed to forget things easily? Your grudge-holding ability is on par with Igor!


    Igor looked puzzledly at Harvey. Do I hold grudges?


    I dont know you very well, the Necromancer replied. If we ignore the fate of those who crossed you in Prison, then youre probably not much for holding grudges.


    After finishing her slice of bread and gulping down a cup of hot milk, Lise turned to Ashe and said, If you dont apologize, someone will stay angry, and the nice gift wont be given.


    Im sorry, it was wrong of me to do that and cause you to fall.


    Hehe, Lise giggled, patting Ashe on the head. Admitting youre wrong is what good dads do. So, you wont do it again next time we y, right?


    Um, next time it will appear as a normal ident, and you wont know it was me.


    Lise withdrew her hand. Not just someone, but even Lise is a bit angry now.


    But Lise, think about it from my perspective, Ashe tried to persuade. If you were almost losing a game, and your opponent showed a weakness in real life, wouldnt you seize that chance to teach her a lesson with a whirlwind victory, showing her that a true yer should be wless in reality as well?


    Dad, you do have a point


    No, that didnt make sense, did it? Everyone thought.


    But once again, everyone was forced to reassess Ashewell known was the fact that little girls can be especially unreasonable, yet Ashe had managed to spin his twisted logic into sweet words that Lisepletely epted. This proved Ashe had a knack for dealing with children.


    Or perhaps he could lower his intelligence to match that of a childs and then use his vast experience to outsmart them.


    Either possibility meant that Ashe and Lise were now tightly bonded; they had formed an impervious little clique.


    For this small startup of just six people, Ashe and Lise could be considered a powerhouse.


    Lise, now fully persuaded, handed arge box to Ashe.


    Ashe gleefully opened the box, realizing this was probably his second real-life giftthe first being the blessing from the Four Pirs, which also included a VIP package at Shattered Lake Prison with meals and lodging.


    A deep red trench coat with a gradient effect appeared before Ashe.


    He paused for a moment, then put on the coat, feeling as if he were donning a robe of vanity.


    Lise has good taste, it really suits you.


    Honestly, given Ashes sense of style, anything Lise bought couldnt possibly make him look worse.


    I think its quite nice, suitable as your funeral attire, oh!


    Ignoring thements from the crowd, Ashe asked, Lise, why did you buy this coat for me?


    Because it suits daddy very well, Lise said. And, feel the pockets.


    Ashe pulled a card with numbers from the pocket: This is


    This is a recharge card for Epic, Lise exined. The Purgatory Trench Coat is official merchandise from the game you y, and it came with this recharge card. I thought you would like it


    Just for today, you are my real daughter! Ashe hugged Lise tightly. Lise, do you like Red Velvet Cake? Igor, find me a cookbook for baking cakes, and once youve learned, bring one over!


    Igor remarked coldly, Next time you ask for my help, Ill remember to have you bake a cake.


    Ashe blinked, There wont be a next time but if there is, well talk then.


    Dad, youre so dramatic, Lise giggled, freeing herself from Ashes embrace to tidy up the remaining delivery boxes. Im going back to my room to keep opening my presents.


    Huh? Annan asked, What about the other dozen or so boxes


    Right, they are all gifts Lise bought for herself! Lise dered proudly. Ive been through a lot recently and felt I needed to treat myself!


    Banjeet helped move the boxes and casually asked, With all that shopping, do you still have money left in your ount?


    Lise paused, didnt answer, and quickly retreated into her room, mming the door behind her.


    Hehehe


    Seeing Igor covering his mouth,ughing slyly, Ashe curiously asked, What are youughing at? And why do you look so sinister?


    Nothing much. Igor picked up a shrimp sd, Just the feeling that someones going to get scolded.


    Lise!


    The White Queen, reflected in the half-length mirror, struggled to keep herposure: You actually spent all your money!?


    Kneeling in front of the mirror, Lise appeared earnest and docile, reflecting seriously. Suddenly, she presented a gift box: White Queen, I picked this out especially for you.


    The White Queen couldnt help butugh in exasperation: Giving me a gift and buying gifts for yourself, whats the difference? Do you think this will fool your sisters?

 Chapter 252: Reduced to Tears

    Chapter 252: Reduced to Tears


    Red Death Eater: Thank you, I really like it.


    ck Butler: Huh? Do I get one too? After all, I havent really talked much with you Heh, its quite nice though.


    Deya: White Queen, lets just let it go this time. After all, we didnt tell her in advance.


    Exactly, exactly. Lise nodded vigorously. Its all the shopping channels fault, with their endless variety of attractive items. If its not a limited-time deal, then its a special sale day, or theyre giving away a free gift I didnt do it on purpose.


    Seeing Lises pitiful look, White Queen sighed, Just spoil her! In the end, if anything goes wrong, well still be the ones to handle it.


    Its a habit. ck Butler remarked, Isnt it always us who clean up after Deyas messes? Whether its herding one sheep or two, it makes no difference.


    Red Death Eater: We are experienced; we perform our duties faithfully.


    Why are you bringing me into this? Deya protested, I havent been much trouble to you guys recently!


    ck Butler scoffed, Is that so? Then who was it that the Observer had to stay behind for a counseling sessionst night?


    Lise blinked, Whats going on with you guys and the Observer?


    Nothing. White Queen quickly replied, Lise, this time your initiative is excused, since we didnt exin the importance of that money to you. Ignorance is no crime


    I realize my mistake!


    White Queen continued, Im not looking for you to admit you were wrong, but I hope you can also consider things along with your sister. We are now forced to obey Annans orders, our freedom restricted, and that 10,000 copper coins represents the most liquid asset we currently have. We could have used it for many other things like giving gifts to others, something you did well, Lise.


    But giving gifts isnt done simply by handing them out. There are two parts to it: the gift and the giving. The act of giving is as important as the gift itself. Like this time, you gave gifts to everyone, and while that seems nice, there are many issues upon closer examination.


    For instance, everyone sees the gifts, which leads toparisons. Comparisons breed hierarchies, and hierarchies define closeness or distance in rtionships. Someone like Igor would surely check the price of each gift privately. If his gift isnt the most valuable, his fondness for you would reset; if his gift is the least valuable, he might even hold a grudge.


    Deya was surprised: Theres such a strategy?


    However, Igor doesnt have the Bracelet connected to the Curtain, so we dont have to worry about that for now, White Queen said. Besides, giving everyone a gift never has the same impact as giving a gift to someone individually. If you were to give Ashe a gift alone, it would make him ten times happier. But giving gifts to everyone might only make him three times happier, even if the gift is perfectly suited to his tastes.


    Why? Lise didnt understand. Isnt it all the same?


    What if Ashe made a Red Velvet Cake just for you, would you be happy?


    Yes!


    But what if, when youre about to eat it, he divides the cake into five parts and gives them to other people? Would you still be as happy?


    Hmm Lise pondered deeply. But I think I could eat half the cake And wasnt the Red Velvet Cake made especially for me?


    Lise is smart to catch the key point so quickly, White Queen praised. Made especially for me is the key in gift-giving. Just like a cake meant to be shared with everyone, you wouldnt feel it was made especially for you, and naturally, you wouldnt be as happy.


    The same goes for your gifts. If everyone receives one, they might think their gift was just something you handed out casually. Only by giving privately can you make them feel valued.


    Lise nodded thoughtfully, White Queen makes a good point From now on, when I give gifts, Ill trick them by saying, This gift is just for you, no one else has one. I spent a lot of time picking it out just for you, dont tell anyone else, or Ill be embarrassed.


    ck Butler: Lises sly way of thinking unexpectedly aligns with mine. Shall I take over her training?


    White Queen: Dont cause trouble. One of you is already enough of a headache for me. Lise, I wont say much more, but I just want to tell you that our wisdom can help you, and we wont refuse your proposals. If you want to buy gifts, well agree and discuss with you what gifts are better and when it is appropriate to give them.


    Lise, most of the time we wont hinder your actions, but you must not act on your own while were all in the Virtual Realm.


    To be honest, Im heartbrokennot because youre mischievous, but because I didnt earn your trust.


    No! Lise quickly shook her head. I didnt


    You bought the items before we returned and didnt tell us about it until the delivery arrived and you couldnt hide it anymore.


    White Queen calmly stated, You clearly dont trust us, thinking we would cancel the order, so you waited until the dust settled to tell us, forcing us to ept the oue, right?


    I, I didnt mean to


    You werent trying to hide it from us? Not trying to force us to ept the oue? You dont mistrust us? Your actions certainly dont show that.


    You still want to argue now.


    I hate children who are dishonest.


    Click.


    Tears dropped heavily onto Lises hands as she faced downward, not looking in the mirror, her shoulders trembling slightly, her nose twitching.


    (Whoa.) ck Butler: (Such a familiar scene, Deya was also scolded to tears like this once.)


    Deya: (I was never cried after being scolded by White Queen!)


    Red Death Eater suddenly jumped in: (Ah? Then who was it that needed to cry on my shoulder after being scolded?)


    Deya: (Definitely not me!)


    ck Butler: (Speaking of which, Deya still has a meaningful existence. Its precisely because of practicing with Deya that White Queen got so good at teaching children.)


    Deya: (Were all perpetually 15 years old! Were not children!)


    ck Butler: (We average 15 years old, but Little Red is probably 12, Im a normal 15, and White Queen is mature like shes 28, so that puts Deyas age at about)


    I, I


    Lise choked up with tears, rubbing her eyes, which only made her cry more. Stifling sobs, she said, I was just afraid of being scolded I didnt dare tell you I dont mistrust you, Im really not a bad child please dont hate me


    Sensing the moment was right, the White Queen softened her tone: Of course we wont hate you, no matter what happens, we will always love you.


    So, Lise, do you know what to do next time something like this happens and were not around?


    Lise sniffled, Wait until youe back and then tell you.


    What if its something urgent that requires immediate decision?


    Then Ill make the decision first and tell you as soon as you return.


    Thats our good Lise. The White Queen smiled. I forgive you this time. What about you?


    Deya: You having Ashe apologize to me was the best gift, Im very satisfied.


    ck Butler: I enjoy seeing Lise cry, I choose to forgive, as it will only encourage her. Then when she makes a mistake again, shell be scolded by the White Queen.


    Lise vigorously wiped her tears and dered loudly, I wont make the same mistake again!


    Red Death Eater: Ignore her, ck Butler always speaks harshly, but she was actually pleading with the White Queen on your behalf just now.


    ck Butler: My intention was clearly for the White Queen not to stop


    But, Deya asked, besides the gifts for us, theres a lot left over. What are those?


    Theyre gifts I bought for myself! Lise eximed with wide, red eyes, giggling, The best gifts I always keep for myself!


    After a brief silence, the White Queen helplessly said, Also, when you give gifts, dont let the recipient find out you bought better things for yourself.


    Why not?


    Because even we would dislike you for that!

 Chapter 253: The Virtual Realm Must Yield to Reality

    Chapter 253: The Virtual Realm Must Yield to Reality


    Stars twinkled above the Swordsmanship Department at Swordflower College, within the professor��s office.


    ��What was that supposed to mean?��


    ��It means I forgot to tell you. Just happened a couple of days ago. Two team members died in the Virtual Realm.��


    ��Were they badly injured?��


    ��Not severely. But one suffered an eye injury and the other an ear injury. It affected theirbat capabilities too much, so they were reced. Then Leoni rmended you, and naturally, you became part of the team. I��m leading the team for the mixer with Orbit College. I didn��t want you topete so soon, but this batch of students in the Swordsmanship Department is the worst I��ve ever seen. We had no choice but to rely on a neer like you, who has been learning swordsmanship for less than a month.��


    ��Why didn��t you ask me?��


    ��I figured you��d agree, so I didn��t bother asking, and then I forgot to tell you.��


    ��But why the Chief Battle?�� Sonyained while holding her forehead. ��I enter the Virtual Realm every night at exactly 11 PM, Professor, as you well know. The Chief Battle doesn��t start until midnight,pletely throwing off my schedule��not to mention the two hours of swordsmanship training I do every night.��


    ��And if someone hadn��t mentioned it, I wouldn��t have known I was supposed to attend the Mixer Party tonight! The whole college knows I��m in the Chief Battle, everyone but me!����Professor, this really makes me����


    Thud!


    A pair of bootsnded on the desk as Trozan leaned back in the chair, arms crossed over the chest, an expression of clear impatience. ��Are you done yet? So, I forgot to tell you. Do you have to nag me about it? Next time I��ll bombard your Curtain with ten messages about anything concerning you, okay?��


    Despite the harsh words, Sonya knew the professor was listening.


    After half a month of working together, Sonya had already figured out Trozan��s personality. Though the Swordsmanship Professor was as prickly as a hedgehog in conversation, domineering and autocratic in teaching style��always a stance of ��are you strong or am I strong? If I��m strong, then listen to me����it was because from a young age her exceptional talent had breezed her through to bing a Sanctuary Sorcerer, her giftspletely overshadowing anyck of emotional intelligence, hence she never needed to learn how to interact with others.


    In other people��s eyes, dealing with Professor Trozan must be an ordeal, but Sonya didn��t see it that way at all. In her hometown, there were plenty of vigers with even lower emotional intelligence than Professor Trozan, who relied solely on Shadow Drama for their knowledge and prenatal influence for social interactions. Sonya had ample experience dealing with such disagreeable people.


    Or rather, Sonya was quite pleased that Professor Trozan was a genius with low emotional intelligence, which allowed her to quickly grasp his personality traits and even know how to make him ��obey��.


    Sonya spoke so sternly this time because she knew Professor Trozan wouldn��t me her, and only by doing so could she make him listen��honestly, Trozan was the kind of person who wouldn��t remember unless you snapped at him.


    ��I get the impression that you��re not too keen on attending the mixer or participating in the Chief Battle,�� Professor Trozan tilted his head. ��If you��re really eager to enter the Virtual Realm, I can change the order, let you fight in the vanguard battle first, then hurry back to school, or even pull you out altogether�� How about that?��


    ��But even during my most intense period of addiction to the Virtual Realm, I wasn��t as obsessed as you are. Missing the Virtual Realm for a day or two, would you really miss anything?��


    Miss anything? Miss the crucial moments of the emotional esction between the Observer and the Witch.


    Although that was her internalint, Sonya knew nothing significant would happen in just one night. If progress could truly be made overnight, it would only show how inadequate the rustic girl was��she hadn��t been able to counter-manipte the Observer for the past half month, could the Witch really win him over in just one night?


    Is having a girlfriend with multiple personalities really that appealing? Isn��t it just being able to simultaneously interact with a confidante, a dark humorist, an energetic young girl, and a cold-hearted killer? What��s so great about that?


    Well, actually, the Witch did have quite a few advantages.


    Upon analysis, Sonya realized that besides showing up early, she didn��t seem to have much morepetitive edge.


    Even in the battle prowess debate that the Observer favored most, the future of the Witch, who could cultivate the Time Faction, surpassed her own��the Time Faction in the Time Continent grows automatically, meaning the Witch would always have one more specialty faction than her.


    Although Sonya��s position in the team seemed precarious, she wasn��t too worried about being neglected. Even when the Observer spoke sternly about ��status,�� ��struggle,�� ��survival of the fittest,�� ��wolf spirit,�� and ��the capable take the lead,�� she knew these were just motivational tactics to encourage her to train harder.


    It was like before every quiz, the Professor would say, ��This test is crucial for your overall grade�� to make students feel the pressure and motivate them to study on their own.


    Sonya��s half-month lead was not insignificant; she had already subtly understood the Observer��s character. This seemingly resurrected Legend was a delicate person; his absurd jokes contained undercurrents, and his silent actions were wrapped in good intentions.


    Without the Observer��s initiative, Sonya would never discuss the Witch��s personality disorder in Battle, and even if she did, it would only be after several more incidents and further development of their rtionship. However, the Observer seemed impatient, as if holding back would affect his very being.


    It was unclear whether his actions were driven by a sense of responsibility, concern for the team, or simply out of kindness.


    Such a sensitive person would take much longer to ept someone than usual. And not just the Witch��Sonya felt that she hadn��t truly been epted by the Observer either, even though he imed she was the pir of his life. asionally, the way he looked at her hinted at an indescribable distance.


    It was as if he was looking at something unattainable.


    This sense of distance was deeply hidden, perhaps because they were not in the same Kingdom, and the physical space between them tranted into emotional distance.


    If Sonya couldn��t break through this barrier, she doubted the Witch could either.


    Moreover, if the Observer was truly reckless and lustful, choosing Operators as if selecting a consort, then why was Sonya still perfectly fine? Could it really be because the Observer couldn��t defeat her?


    Sonya coulde up with a thousand reasons to prove that there was no issue with the Observer and the Witch conducting Exploration in the Virtual Realm alone.


    But she just couldn��t convince herself.


    Sometimes, rationality isn��t very useful; emotional thoughts upy every inch of the mind, and the army of reason retreats in defeat.


    The thought of the Observer and the Witch traveling through the Virtual Realm without her caused Sonya a pain as if she were being torn apart.


    She couldn��t know what they would do or say there. Perhaps they would speak ill of her? Perhaps the Observer would share his past? Perhaps they would encounter Virtual Realm Adventures, like Miracle Park, Hall of Magic, or even Destiny��s Inquiry��


    Those treatments that once belonged solely to her, the attention she used to receive exclusively, the privileges that were once hers alone, were gradually being handed over to someone else.


    If she hadn��t declined the Chief Battle or skipped the Mixer Party, then the Observer and the Witch would have their own memories, exclusive experiences, and secrets shared with a smile.


    She despised this feeling of being out of control and feared being marginalized.


    She knew her suspicions were irrational and dwelling on these emotions was pointless, but she couldn��t help herself.


    Sonya Therave was just that incapable rustic girl, unable to pick up, put down, let go, or hold on.


    All the reason in the world couldn��t outweigh a moment of heartfelt impulse.


    ��So what are you suggesting?��


    Professor Trozan asked, ��Are we changing the order of seats for the battle, or are we cancelling the mixer altogether? Well, I can understand prioritizing Virtual Realm Adventures over real-life events����


    ��No.��


    Sonya��s answer surprised not only the Professor but herself as well.


    The rustic girl stared intently at the Professor, her fists clenched tightly, shaking her head stiffly: ��Let��s stick to the Professor��s n. I will take responsibility for the final Chief Battle, and I will stay until the end of the university-level Mixer Party.��


    ��The Virtual Realm should yield to reality.��

 Chapter 254: How Pitiful I Must Be, Having My Heart Stolen by You

    Chapter 254: How Pitiful I Must Be, Having My Heart Stolen by You


    ��Whew.��


    Sonya exhaled a breath as sharp as a sword, pausing her weary hands, waiting for the armor stand with a gaping hole to slowly recover. Other apprentices in the Training Hall curiously watched the Red-haired Swordswoman; it was their first time seeing her train in the afternoon��though the thought of the evening��s Mixer Party soon filled them with admiration.


    Training early because of the evening event, truly fitting for our Swordswoman!


    ��Sonya!�� Adelle rushed in, calling out: ��Lois and the others are waiting for you, aren��t youing?��


    ��Just a few more minutes.�� Sonya leveled her wooden sword, assuming a thrusting stance. ��Wait for me.��


    Adelle, frantic, had no choice but to honestly stay by her side, squatting and rubbing her calves��she had run all the way from the dorms, and even that short distance had left her feeling exhausted.


    She watched Sonya repeatedly practice her thrusts, bored. Today, Sonya had her striking red hair tied up in a bun to facilitate movement, exposing her proud, smooth neck. Drops of sweat traced her forehead, rolled over her nose, streamed down her neck, and disappeared into her dark training vest.


    With every thrust Sonya made, the vest emitted a heavy swaying sound��her hands, legs, and torso all weighted down.


    ��It looks so tiring,�� Adelle remarked, propping her chin with her hands. ��Do you actually find training enjoyable, Sonya?����How could I.�� Between breaths, Sonya let out a plume of white air and smiled. ��Even Engulite wouldn��t find training fun. Engaging in such monotonous repetition goes against human nature. If it were pleasurable, the Training Hall would be packed every day.��


    ��Isn��t that so?�� Adelle was surprised. ��Everyone says you must love Swordsmanship Training; that��s why you persist ande to the Training Hall daily. The stories always mention how a Faction��s Genius often finds joy in practice, and those without Talent only harvest misery����


    ��Perhaps there are such people,�� Sonya lunged fiercely, her wooden sword piercing through the armor stand, leaving only a Sword Scar without any other cracks. ��But I am not one of them.��


    ��Swordsmanship Training is just so boring for me!��


    ��If it weren��t for being forced, I��d never practice swordsmanship in my whole life!��


    Curious, Adelle asked, ��Who��s forcing you?��


    She waited a while, but Sonya didn��t answer, just fiercely thrusting her wooden sword at the armor stand as if it had personally wronged her.


    Adelle asked again, ��Even though you don��t want to practice, you seem to really like swordsmanship.��


    ��I don��t like swordsmanship,�� Sonya said. ��I just appreciate the perks thate with it. Honor, fame, attention, and a future.��


    ��I love being in the spotlight, I crave attention, I want to be a Noble, I want to stay in Gales.��


    ��Even though I don��t like swordsmanship, as long as it fulfills my wishes, I��ll pretend to love it. By your standards, Adelle, I��m definitely not a Genius.��


    ��But if everyone expects me to be one, then I��ll act the part.��


    ��Whew.��


    Sonya retracted her wooden sword and picked up a towel next to her to wipe off her sweat. Adelle, meanwhile, unscrewed the cap of a rustic girl��s water bottle, took a deep gulp herself, and then handed it to Sonya. ��You��re lying, aren��t you?��


    The rustic girl took a small sip of water, looking at the naive and rich local girl.


    ��Even though I neither love studying nor sports, I��m not stupid,�� Adelle said, folding her arms. ��Whether someone truly likes something or not, even I can tell.��


    ��Every night, you carry your Sword bag to train, to fight Felix, to challenge Senior Sister Leoni. I don��t see reluctance, only anticipation. You enjoy this life, constantly sharpening yourself, advancing, getting stronger.�� She nced at the weights Sonya wore: ��If you really didn��t like it, you wouldn��t make it harder on yourself. It��s like me searching for plot analyses and fan fiction after watching a show; it��s a craving thates from deep love.��


    ��And, I just realized this now, watching you train up close.��


    Adelle spoke earnestly, ��When you hold the sword, when you sweat, when you swing, you look incredibly beautiful, just slightly less than me.��


    ��Beauty is right, so Sonya, you must be a Genius of swordsmanship.��


    Suddenly, Sonya felt she couldn��t quite follow Adelle��s line of thinking, ��Just because I look beautiful with a sword, I should be a Swordcerer?��


    ��What else?�� Adelle retorted, ��Beauty is the only reason for existence. Are you going to let down the favor of the Stars?��


    ��Indeed.�� Sonya couldn��t help but nod, ��That makes sense. Is it a famous quotation?��


    ��From episode 17 of ��How Pitiful I Must Be to Have My Heart Stolen by You.����


    ��A Shadow Drama�� I don��t watch dramas that Drose isn��t in.��


    ��Then you��ve missed many ssic masterpieces.�� Adelle spoke as if she were an expert, ��It��s precisely because I��ve seen so many joys and sorrows that I can see through the vanity of words and the deceit of looks.��


    Do joys and sorrows in a Shadow Drama count?


    ��Like you, Sonya, you clearly love swordsmanship, but you always go on and on, using so many excuses to prove you only practice for the benefits, as if admitting you like swordsmanship would make you lose in somepetition.��


    Sonya was taken aback.


    ��And the same goes for your Sound Magic and performance sses.�� Adelle seemed a bit thirsty from talking too much, smacking her lips and grabbing the water bottle from Sonya��s hand to drink, ��You say you want to be a performer or Songstress in the future because it can make a lot of money. That sounds right, but there are so many lucrative upations, why specifically a Songstress or performer?��


    ��You alwayse up with manyplex reasons, but actually, the motives for many things should be quite simple.��


    Adelle reflected, ��I��ve watched so many dramas, and the biggest takeaway is that many ns, though perfect, are often twisted by spontaneous motives. This world is just full of such unreasonable spontaneity.��


    Sonya: ����Have you ever thought that maybe the screenwriter gotzy and just went with it?��


    ��That makes sense.�� Adelle pointed to her vibrating Bracelet, ��Are we done Resting? Let��s go, look, Lois is hurrying us again.��


    Sonya and Adelle quickly returned to their dormitory, only to find a crowd of female students bustling inside, with various clothes and essories strewn about the tables.


    Upon seeing Sonya drenched in sweat, Lois couldn��t help but pinch her nose, eximing, ��Go take a shower, now! Really, suddenly calling us to prepare your Battle Garment and then taking off to train by yourself�� Do you think bing a Swordflower will make everyone revolve around you? Not to mention, you��re not even a Swordflower yet!��


    Sonya apologized, ��I��m sorry.��


    ��Just go and shower,�� Lois waved her off. ��You reek. I��ll let you use my shampoo and body wash this time; otherwise, you might just knock me out with that smell.��


    After Sonya headed into the bathroom, Lois tapped on her Bracelet, ��Has Borris Senior Sister not arrived yet? Is there anyone who can rece her?��


    ��Wind Department students are few as it is, let alone those specializing in Mystic Fragrance,�� another girlined. ��Most of us focus on meteorology. Borris only started studying Mystic Fragrance because she asionally obtained the Fragrant Wind spirit from the Virtual Realm. Real Mystic Fragrance Sorcerers are mostly affiliated with those perfumepanies. Unless you be their apprentice, you can��t ess their centuries-old fragrance forms.��


    ��Being short one Borris shouldn��t be an issue,�� Adelle said. ��Besides, during the Battle, no one is going to be focused on Sonya��s scent����


    ��Don��t forget, spirit enhancements that amplify the senses are everywhere,�� Lois interrupted. ��A perfect performance can��t have any ws�� Oh!��


    She opened her own cab, rummaging through to pull out a ss bottle iid with star diamonds.


    Adelle was immediately astonished, ��Isn��t that Tears of the Meteor? Lois, you��ve been hiding such treasures and not sharing with your best friends!��


    ��If I shared it, you��d use it all up sooner orter,�� Lois said, looking at the perfume bottle with a conflicted expression. The other girls crowded around her, begging Lois to let them try the perfume or to book a session to use it.


    Engulite looked puzzled, ��Is that perfume really expensive?��


    ��It��s not about the cost; it��s a limited edition that money can��t buy,�� exined Adelle. ��It��s a special blend by a Mystic Fragrance Sorcerer, containing the power of Miracle. You see, the perfumes we usually wear are quite enchanting already, but they are just mass-produced by Mystic Fragrance Sorcerers and contain only a bit of Miracle��s power. They can��tpare to ��Tears of the Meteor.����


    ��So, this perfume is stronger?��


    ��No, no, no, the focus of Mystic Fragrance isn��t the ��fragrance�� per se, but the ��mystique��. It��s said thatdies who use this perfume can be the sole focus of attention with just a subtle body scent, even causing others to secrete pleasure hormones, making them feel a fondness for the wearer.�� Adelle��s face was full of longing, ��If I could wear this perfume at the school g, I��d shine brighter than the Stars.��


    ��However, this miraculous perfume isn��t sold because it requires a lot of spirit to produce. It��s only given as a gift. Looks like Lois has some strong connections at home����


    Just then, Sonya came out of the shower, and Lois immediately said, ��Alright, we have 95 minutes until six o��clock. In these 95 minutes, we must turn Sonya into a work of art!��


    The rustic girl hadn��t even reacted before she was pulled over, arms raised, as the girls quickly stripped her of her clothes �� not sparing even her underwear �� and then dressed her in new undergarments, followed by a shirt, leggings, then riding pants, a jacket, gloves, boots, essories, and a skirt��


    Sonya was astonished, ��Lois, I just asked you to help me find a suitable Battle Garment, isn��t this a bit much with so many people?��


    ��What do you think a real Battle Garment is? A nightgown that you can just slip into?�� Lois said irritably. ��And if you really wanted to wear a Battle Garment, you should have told me a few days in advance. You only told me this afternoon, giving me just a few hours. It��s crazier than rushing a homework assignment.��


    ��The dazzling Battle Garments you see on the Holographic Screen all require several people to put on, even needing spirit for tailoring��these Senior Sisters are all people I asked through my connections, so you better thank them properlyter.��


    ��No need,�� one Senior Sister said with a smile, ��it��s our honor to serve a new Swordflower. If you really want to thank someone, Lois, thank us �� and please, I have a very important date next week, may I borrow some ��Tears of the Meteor�� perfume?��


    ��I��m meeting my fianc�� in a few days!��


    ��I have an important dinner to attend!��


    Sonya chuckled, ��Thank you for your generous help, Senior Sisters. Lois, I didn��t mean to trouble you, but I only found out this morning that I��m in charge of the Chief Battle at the Mixer Party. The professor wouldn��t have told me if I hadn��t asked����


    ��Professor Trozan really should have����


    Lois muttered as she pushed Sonya down onto a stool, ��Are you confident you won��t hurt your face? Blood mixed with makeup looks awful�� or maybe just trim the eyebrows?��


    Sonya summoned a spirit, ��I have a ��Fixed Day�� spirit; please help me with the makeup that best suits the spotlight.��


    Lois��s expression softened slightly, ��You even got a ��Fixed Day�� spirit; at least you��re somewhat prepared.��


    She took out a headband and tied up the rustic girl��s red hair, carefully examining her eyes, ��Your eyes seem a bit dry�� Adelle, bring me my eye wash.��

 Chapter 255: No Romance

    Chapter 255: No Romance


    Sonya let them fuss over her as she spoke softly, ��Lois, you��ve really gone out of your way this time. I don��t even know how to thank you.��


    ��Hmm?�� Lois, while meticulously drawing on Sonya��s eyebrows, replied, ��Aren��t you aware that my family deals in Battle Garments, and that��s why you asked for my help?��


    ��Ah? I had no idea.��


    ��Well, you really did something, asking a roommate to find a Battle Garment��wait, did you actually just want me to help you rent one?��


    Sonya didn��t respond, just looked at Lois with her innocent yet somewhat dry eyes.


    Lois sighed, ��It seems I was just being presumptuous and busy for nothing����


    ��No, you��ve given me a 120% surprise,�� Sonya said with a smile. ��I truly appreciate your gesture.��


    ��Don��t get ahead of yourself,�� Lois retorted as she held Sonya��s face to apply eye drops, ��I was just using your reputation to promote our family��s Battle Garments��if you manage to win impressively tonight, maybe Swordflower College will choose us as their supplier. So if you really want to thank me, you know what to do, right?��


    ��I understand.�� Sonya, ufortable with the eye drops, abruptly closed her eyes, letting the liquid slowly seep in, ��Then just watch me closely��though you might be disappointed because everyone will be looking at me, not your family��s Battle Garments.����Hmph,�� Lois chuckled, ��We��ll see if you can still say thatter.��


    The Battle Garments they mentioned are actually a special kind of attire in the Stars. Sorcerer battles can easily damage clothes, so during high-profile battles, it��s essential to wear garments that are resistant to tearing��at least they shouldn��t burst open easily, as it would be quite embarrassing for the Sorcerer, especially since many are of Noble origin. Losing face for them is akin to social suicide.


    In the past, there were numerous incidents with nicknames like ��Count Exposed�� and ��Marquess Derri��re�� who took their own lives due to the spread of scandalous rumors.


    Therefore, Battle Garments with better defensive capabilities emerged. Initially, these garments were merely the armor of Noble Sorcerers, but as alchemy and materials science advanced, the cumbersome steel armor gradually faded from history. It was reced by tough fabrics with various resistances.


    Although this fabric still couldn��t withstand a Sorcerer��s attacks, it at least wouldn��t tear apart. If it got damaged, it would break exactly where it was hit, without causing the clothes to unravel.


    However, as times evolved, Battle Garments became increasingly ornate and extravagant, even turning into a fashion statement for Nobles. Particrly in the Intercollegiate League, it was essentially a grand disy of fashionable Battle Garments among students, with the addition of a ��battle capability�� index��only the victor��s garment earned the right to be admired, while the aesthetics of the losers�� garments were defeated along with them.


    Obviously, anything rted to Sorcerers doesn��te cheap, not to mention that Battle Garments are positioned as high-end luxury items. At least Sonya, a rustic girl, couldn��t afford them��or rather, buying a Battle Garment that she wouldn��t wear regrly would be too extravagant.


    However, Swordflower College has a facility called Flower Room that specializes in renting out Battle Garments. Any student qualified to participate in a battle can rent an appropriate Battle Garment at a low price there, and if it gets damaged, Flower Room will repair it free of charge.


    In fact, Sonya had lied.


    She knew that Lois��s family was in the Battle Garment business, given their deep interactions before, Sonya definitely needed to know her enemies well��had Lois been someone Sonya couldn��t afford to provoke, she would have backed down long ago.


    But she really didn��t expect that Lois would urgently summon a family Battle Garment for her to use. Her intention was only that Lois, having a good eye, could help her pick out a suitable Battle Garment. After all, Sonya needed to finish her Swordsmanship Training in the afternoon for the evening��she had tested before that finishing the training projects early meant not being forced to train at night��she didn��t have much time to prepare her own outfit for the evening, so she had to rely on Lois.


    ��All set.��


    After a full half-hour, Lois finally finished Sonya��s makeup and set it with a ��Fixed Day�� spirit. The Senior Sisters also helped Sonya put on the Battle Garment, fastening every button and attaching each essory.


    Everyone stepped back in unison, and Lois pulled Sonya up, turning her body to face the only full-length mirror in the dormitory: ��Tell me, which is more beautiful��you or my Battle Garment?��


    Seeing her reflection in the mirror, Sonya instinctively held her breath.


    She had thought she had already tapped into all her beauty potential and couldn��t possibly look any prettier, but Lois showed her that she had underestimated herself��she had never worn such expensive clothes before, clothes that truly suited her, so there was still much room for improvement!


    There are many things in this world that don��t make sense, but the expensive always have their reasons.


    The base of the Battle Garment was still the blue and white uniform of Swordflower College, but it had been tailored to better entuate Sonya��s slender waist; the shoulders were adorned with double-breasted buttons connected by cords, draping a white-edged red velvet coat over her body, bringing a richlyyered visual impact; gloves, short boots, and the hem of the skirt all featured silver essories, making the outfit not only highlight Sonya��s youthful vivacity but also her dignified and elegant demeanor.


    Sonya could only describe herself in one way��she felt her beauty now rivaled that of Drose.


    Lois let down Sonya��s rustic red hair andbed it, then picked up the perfume ��Tears of the Meteor�� and, under the pained gaze of everyone, sprayed it on the outer side of Sonya��s arms, her neck, and waist.


    ��All done,�� Lois said, looking at Sonya in the mirror as if she were admiring a freshly created piece of art, shaking her head wistfully: ��It��s such a waste, just for a Mixer Party�� It would be more fitting for a championship final.��


    ��There will be a chance,�� Sonya said. ��Tonight is my first timepeting against Sorcerer Students from other colleges, and it��s the first step towards making my name known across the stars.��


    ��Making your name known across the stars, you really can talk,�� Lois said, not hiding her irritation. ��You should first make your name known across Gales.��


    ��I think it��s close,�� Engulite said. ��As long as Sonya wins impressively tonight, she will immediately be the top seed in the league.��


    ��I see,�� Adelle understood. ��No wonder Sonya asked Lois to find a Battle Garment, she wanted to use the outfit to boost her presence and make asting impression on the Audience����


    ��No.��


    Sonya gently shook her head, looking at herself in the mirror and adjusting the details of her attire. ��I just like wearing beautiful clothes.��


    ��I actually like swordsmanship too, and I like many other things. I like singing, acting, and winning. Moreover, I like����


    She paused, ��to let the townspeople of Gales watch as I, a country girl, live a life more splendid than legends, more dazzling than the stars, and happier than anyone else!��


    The Red-haired Swordswoman then turned around, yfully cing a finger on her lips and winking at the stunned crowd. ��Don��t tell anyone, okay?��


    Indeed, Sonya Therave is such an irredeemable, vulgar, and vain girl.


    She needs to feed on the admiration of aspirants, digest the envy of the incapable, and relish the attention of the masses to truly feel happy.


    She desires lots of money, to live in the best houses, eat the finest food, wear the most expensive clothes, and even hold the most prestigious noble title. Only when she is better than everyone else can she feel that life has meaning.


    Therefore, Sonya cannot afford to miss the opportunity of the Chief Battle at the Mixer Party. On the contrary, she must use this chance to take the most important step towards her vulgar and vain dreams.


    Moreover, she knows that most Sorcerer activities take ce at night, such as the Intercollegiate League, which is also held under the watch of the stars. As long as she continues down this path, her absence from the Exploration in Virtual Realm is inevitable.


    Are the Observers in the virtual realm more important, or are the opportunities in the real world?


    This isn��t a multiple-choice question, or at least Sonya will try to make it one. She indeed hates it when unknown changes happen in her team without her knowledge, but she despises her current weak and suspicious self even more!


    The right choice, from beginning to end, has only ever been one.


    That is to trust the Observers, and��


    Trust herself.


    To believe that even without the Observers, she can still bloom proudly!


    Sonya Therave lives only for herself!


    Neither her mother nor the Observers can dictate her life or influence her decisions!


    Why did she work so hard to study and leave that small town? Why did she strive to earn schrships? Why did she learn makeup and even spend money on minor cosmetic adjustments?


    She is here to enjoy the best things in life, and no one can stop her!


    ��Although there��s still time, you should head over early to gather,�� Lois said. ��We aren��t qualified to participate in the social event, but there should be a live Curtain broadcast. You��re wearing my dress, so remember to win beautifully.��


    ��Mm.�� Sonya waved to everyone. ��See you all tomorrow then. I��m off to make Orbit College my first stepping stone in the battle.��


    ��Good luck!��


    ��I��ve already drafted your victory announcement. I��ll post it on the School Forum the moment you win!��


    With everyone��s blessings, the Red-haired Swordswoman briskly walked out the door and then suddenly came back to Lois: ��Oh, almost forgot to answer your question.��


    ��What?�� Lois instinctively stepped back as Sonya��s face came close.


    ��Your pupils are focused on my face,�� Sonya said proudly, tilting her chin up. ��See, even you admit that I look better than the dress.��


    ��Of course, I��d look at your face if you suddenly lean in!��


    ��Mm, mm, you��re right,�� Sonya nodded agreeably. ��Hehe, that��s what I like about you, Lois. You��re quite adorable.��


    ��What did you say!�� Lois bristled, feeling like the Sonya from a month ago had returned.


    Amidst theughter, Sonya took the Sword bag handed to her by Engulite, ncing unconsciously at the spot where the Observer first appeared.


    ��Hey, I��m taking the night off.��


    ��Good luck.��


    Sonya paused, rubbing her eyes, but Lois quickly pped her hand away. ��Don��t smudge my makeup!��


    ��I used a Fixed Day spirit; it��s fine.��


    After taking another careful look and confirming there was no one in the corner, Sonya huffed and strode out of the dormitory.


    However, after only a few steps, she suddenly dashed back, causing everyone to look at the Red-haired Swordswoman in confusion. ��What��s wrong? Did you forget something?��


    ��No���� Sonya��s gaze swept across every corner of the dormitory, a hint of confusion on her face. This time, she really left.


    Listening to the fading footsteps of Sonya, the Observer lying on the bed yawned, ��This is an unexpected incident. Do you think we need to intervene?��


    ��But it��s a logical progression,�� the Swordswoman sitting up on another bed responded. ��Let them handle it themselves. We��ll just take care of her leave arrangements. Besides, we can��t really intervene. Sonya has made up her mind, and unless Ashe shows up in the Stars Kingdom right now, nobody can sway her rational decision.��


    ��Not to mention, I��m actually pleased Sonya made this choice, as it shows that our attitudes towards love are still aligned.��


    ��What attitude?��


    ��Not to engage in romance.��

 Chapter 256: Youve Received the Swordswomans Leave Request

    Chapter 256: Youve Received the Swordswomans Leave Request


    ��I��m getting a bit tired of this. Let��s switch games.��


    After facing his tenth consecutive defeat in ��Sorcerer Duel 14�� tonight, Ashe made a suggestion that Deya had anticipated.


    Tonight, Ashe had forsaken his usual practice of the Wandering Sword Saint to y popr characters like the Alchemical Overlord and Earth Empress, even including unique characters like the Enemy Sorcerer and the Scythe of Sorrow. They all shared onemon feature��a simple and effective looping suppression routine.


    In simple terms, this is known as ��Spear Technique����a term from the ��Sorcerer Duel�� series, referring to moves as straightforward and unstoppable as a spear thrust. These moves significantly affect the aesthetics of gamey, hence they are usually banned by yers by default.


    Don��t think that Ashe was the only one who had read the ��Complete Guide to the Sorcerer Duel Series��; Deya had also made time for Lise to go through it, so naturally, they were both aware of the various Spear Techniques.


    Unfortunately, Ashe only learned this superficial aspect and didn��t grasp the real keys to Sorcerer Duel����Countery��, ��Timing��, ��Focus��, and ��Reset��. Or perhaps, these were too difficult, and he simply gave up.


    The more Deya yed, the more she realized that ��Sorcerer Duel�� contained vast knowledge about sorcererbat, much of which could be directly integrated into realbat. For instance, ��Focus�� involves observing to determine how much stun your attack will impose on an enemy, perfectly connecting subsequent attacks to form an unstoppable sequence, thereby inflicting significant damage.


    The skills of game characters are just like different ingredients; once you master the keys, you can handle anything smoothly.


    The same principle applies to Miracles. Randomly unleashing all Miracles leaves one with only the production value, typical of a novice. Someone slightly more proficient, like Ashe, knows how to use Miracles to deliverbo critical strikes, but that��s about it. The true masters, like Deya, not only know how to produce bursts of damage but also how to exploit every tiny w in their opponent, or even create ws where none existed.At first, Ashe did manage to corner Deya using Spear Technique, but once Deya figured out the characteristics of the technique, she easily dodged by ducking and making high jumps. When Ashe tried the same moves again, Deya would catch the ws and break through directly.


    So, when Ashe suggested switching games, Deya wasn��t surprised at all. Tonight��s feast of Spear Technique was merely Ashe��s final act of defiance.


    He had fallen, choosing to abandon the dignity of a yer for the power to defeat his opponent, yet still found himself easily crushed by Deya. In a fairy tale, this would be akin to the dark viin effortlessly squashed by the righteous protagonist.


    Knowing he couldn��t win against himself in this game, Ashe naturally wouldn��t continue ying against Deya. On this point, Deya agreed��they would never y a game they couldn��t win.


    ��Alright,�� Deya set down the controller. ��So, what shall we y?��


    ��Let me check����


    Ashe pulled open the drawer beneath the Holographic Screen, which held various game cartridges neatlybeled: ��To y with the kidster��, ��Cult masterpieces��, ��Always fresh��, ��Only when Annan is not around����


    After searching for a while, he suddenly pulled out a cartridge: ��This is it!��


    Deya thought to herself that if the game turned out to be dull, she could just let Lise y with him, as defeating Ashe would suffice toplete the Observer��s task. But when the game image appeared on the Holographic Screen, she couldn��t take her eyes off it, not even when Lise was knocking loudly on the mirror beside her.


    Sorcerer Karting 5


    ��A spin-off from the Sorcerer Duel series. The game characters race in various Virtual Realm settings in karts, attacking otherpetitors with Miracles,�� Ashe said. ��Let��s y this!��


    ��Great!��


    This game might just teach me how to attack others on the road!


    Both thought simultaneously.


    An hour and a halfter, the disheveled pair exited the game room��Deya��s hair was a mess and Ashe��s clothes were torn. They nced at each other, snorted coldly, and walked away in opposite directions��Ashe to his room, Deya to the kitchen for a snack.


    ��I��m not surprised at all, but did you really have a falling out with Lise?��


    Igor had just stepped out of his room and couldn��t help but chuckle at their current state.


    ��Don��t make it sound like it was my fault,�� Ashe responded irritably. ��That little brat can��t handle losing and throws a tantrum. Am I supposed to just put up with it?��


    ��While I don��t have parenting experience, from what I remember about life in the Nursery, a Guardian is supposed to indulge the kids a bit. Looking back, it was a wonderful time. I managed to control the entire Nursery with the ��Child Protection Act��, and even the adults didn��t dare to oppose me����


    Ashe was no longer surprised by Igor��s sinister and outrageous past and retorted, ��We were just ying a racing game. It��s part of the game for everyone to hold each other back, but Lise throws a fit after being pulled from first ce three times in a row�� Ah, kids these days care too much about winning and losing.��


    ��Ashe, I really suggest you wear a mask, because your face management is worse than the new resident Harvey brought in. You couldn��t even hide your schadenfreude.��


    ��Ah?�� Ashe subconsciously touched his mouth. ��Then can you pick up a stylish mask for me while you��re out?��


    ��How did you know I was going���� Igor started to say but then caught himself. He looked down at his trench coat and boots, which clearly indicated he was going out��normally, they wore slippers around here.


    ��Have you talked to Harvey?�� Ashe inquired.


    Igor knew what he was asking and shook his head, ��I asked, but Harvey didn��t say what mission he was on with Annanst night. Just that����


    ��Just what?��


    ��The cold stream of fire inside him that was fading seems like it might really start to burn again,�� Igor said, leaning against the wall. ��If before Harvey was digging his own grave, now it seems he��s making that grave bigger, but who it��s for, I don��t know.��


    ��Does that mean Annan haspletely activated Harvey?�� Ashe said. ��Could Annan be using the Beacon of Hope?��


    ��Harvey doesn��t have Immortality Syndrome, the Beacon of Hope can��t cure that,�� Igor shook his head. ��But what he cares about really boils down to two things��one is his deceased lover, and the other�� the affairs of the Necromancy Faction.��


    ��Hmph, that��s unlike me. I wish I was the only one in the world versed in the Mind Faction, while Harvey desires a world where everyone practices the Necromancy Faction.��


    ��It��s you who��s not quite normal, Igor,�� Ashe said. ��Don��t you look forward to a friend who is your equal, someone who can keep up with your thoughts and spar intellectually with you?��


    The Con Artist nced at the Cult Leader.


    ��Cowards need friends,�� he said. ��That��s the kind of person Harvey is, can��t live without leaning on something, clinging to life just to go all out�� I��ve seen too many patients like him, many clients like him��strong, persistent, yet more fragile than ss. But among the psychological cases I��ve encountered, Harvey is quite significant. Do you know why he��s so fond of the Necromancy Faction? Because he��s so lonely he needs the dead forpany����


    ��Hey,�� Ashe interrupted him, his expression half mocking, half serious. ��It only makes sense to talk bad about someone to their face. Talking behind their back is like holding a shield while detonating a bomb��it��s not thrilling at all.��


    ��You still care about others, Ashe Heath?�� Igor raised his head, his face full of scorn. ��You should have realized when Harvey didn��te to us that he already had other ns. In this house, you have no friends; the alliance no longer exists.��


    Ashe looked at him and suddenlyughed.


    ��What are youughing at?��


    ��I��m just thinking�� when you want to use me, you say things to please me. So what exactly are you trying to do when you speak to me with such hostility?��


    Ashe patted Igor on the shoulder. ��I��m off to the Virtual Realm. I hope your work goes smoothly tonight.��


    ��Hope you get rammed by a White Bull in the Virtual Realm,�� Igor responded gruffly.


    Ashe returned to his room for a bath, and with some time to spare, decided to soak in the tub and boot up the game system to do some research.


    Had it not been for acquiring the mapst night, Ashe wouldn��t even have known that his Virtual Realm map had a recording function. This made him think there might be other useful features in the game system he hadn��t yet discovered��such as possibly automating Exploration in Virtual Realm��


    However, as soon as Ashe opened the game, he noticed a red notification under ��Operator Management��. Clicking on it, he saw that the Portrait of the Swordswoman had an envelope icon.


    ��Notification: You have received a ��Swordswoman��s Leave Request��.��

 Chapter 257: A Private Date (?) Between the Observer and the Witch

    Chapter 257: A Private Date (?) Between the Observer and the Witch


    ��Swordswoman��s Leave Request��


    ����I have an important match tonight, so I need to take a leave. I hope you won��t be unreasonable.����


    ��Effect Paid Leave (1/15) (Bond Level 1): 30% of the arcane energy you obtain during Exploration in Virtual Realm will be shared with the team member on leave.��


    ��Effect Bonus Sharing (1/10) (Bond Level 2): 30% of the Faction Realm you achieve during Exploration in Virtual Realm will be shared with the team member on leave.��


    ��Effect Common Prosperity (1/5) (Bond Level 3): There��s a chance that special mechanisms encountered during Exploration in Virtual Realm will be shared with the team member on leave.��


    Can Operators even take leave?!


    Daring to take leave now, what will they dare to do next? It��s unimaginable!


    Taking leave and still sharing mymission?! Sharing my project experience?!


    Is this really a game produced by mypany? Shouldn��t it be more like annual leave being virtually nonexistent, sick leave counted as absence, and personal time off deducting from bonuses? And what does this (1/15) mean? Does it imply that the Swordswoman can take 15 days of paid leave?15 days of paid leave a year, is this exploitation?!


    ��Wait, is this quota refreshed annually or monthly?


    Ashe dared not continue this train of thought, or he would be dragged back into the mire of memories from his years of working life, falling into a state of inescapable depression, just like a reformed young man who can��t reminisce about his cringeworthy past days.


    However, Ashe wasn��t surprised by the Swordswoman triggering her personal story arc. He had heard her mention something about an Intercollegiate League at school. Clearly, this was the path of glory set out for the Swordswoman, a chosen storyline, likely starting with her dominating the Intercollegiate League, followed by ssic fantasy plot elements like trials in the Abyss, Noble intrigues, eventually rising to be a legendary Sorcerer.


    Thinking about it, the Swordswoman��s story arc is much more fantastical than Ashe��s. Starting off at an academy, thenpeting in tournaments, and if she gets involved in some sort of national conspiracy, eventually bing a member of a team that saves the world, that would indeed be aplete, traditional fantasy narrative. Unlike Ashe, whose story began with the drama of Prison, a rather umon type in crime films.


    I really want to see the Swordswoman in her element��


    Speaking of which, while the Swordswoman always talks about her daily trivialities, Ashe actuallycks a real sense of her life, knowing it only through the pale stories conveyed in words.


    When the Death Maniac Swordswoman suddenly submitted a Leave Request to participate in a match, Ashe realized that she indeed had a life outside their virtual encounters��a reality that belonged solely to her,plete with family, friends, mentors, distant dreams, and small joys close at hand.


    But Ashe was not a part of that world.


    The rtionship between the Apocalypse Observer and the Death Maniac Swordswoman was confined to the Virtual Realm, just as the Swordswoman was unable to touch his life, he could not witness her match.


    Thinking about this, Ashe felt a twinge of loneliness. It was like those moments in the game where you perfectly coordinate with an online friend, only to hear they can��t join because they have ns with their girlfriend tonight��it felt almost like a betrayal.


    However, he quicklyposed himself and silently cheered for the Swordswoman.


    If she won, she would gain more resources and opportunities, which could further advance her personal storyline��


    ��But if she lost, would that mean she wouldn��t proceed with her storyline and have more time to spend Exploring the Virtual Realm with him?


    Pfft~


    Ashe submerged himself in the bathtub, holding his breath for nearly a minute before surfacing to clear the silly thoughts from his mind. He brushed his teeth, changed into his pajamas, and prepared for tonight��s Exploration in Virtual Realm.


    Since the Swordswoman couldn��t join, it would be just Ashe and the Witch tonight.


    In the ��Exploration in Virtual Realm�� �C ��Team Composition�� section, Ashe added himself and the Witch.


    ��White Queen, help me wash my hair!��


    White Queen: ��No, it��s been three days. You need to learn to bathe yourself. You can��t rely on us for things you don��t like!��


    ��Ow�� the soap got in my eyes! It hurts!��


    Lise reached to turn off the shower, but her foot slipped. Just as she was about to fall disastrously, she swiftly ced a hand on the ground, flipped herself over, andnded steadily on the wet wooden floor.


    Her white hair turned half red, and with a notably colder expression, she continued washing her hair while seated on a small stool.


    In the mirror, the White Queen spoke irritably, ��Little Red, you��re just spoiling her! What child doesn��t know how to wash their own hair��and look, she even bought herself new shampoo.��


    ck Butler responded, ��Knowing how to wash hair isn��t that big of a deal. If she doesn��t know, she doesn��t know. We didn��t know how to wash ours in the past either.��


    ��You know that was in the past,�� the White Queen retorted. ��All this is to foster her independence. She can��t always run to us with every problem she faces. How is she any different from Deya if she does? She needs to handle small matters like this on her own.��


    Deya interjected, ��What does this have to do with me?��


    Meanwhile, the Red Death Eater had efficiently finished washing her hair and returned control over the body to Lise. Aware that her sisters were upset, Lise obedientlypleted the remaining steps of her bath, dried herself thoroughly with a towel, dressed in her pajamas, and even brushed her teeth ahead of time, which finally eased the White Queen��s expression.


    Back in her bedroom, as Lise sat at the vanity drying her hair, she noticed her reflection licking a finger and writing on the mirror:


    ��Tonight you open the Gate of Truth.��


    Lise paused, ��A message from the Observer?��


    ��Hmm?�� Her sisters looked puzzled. ��What happened?��


    Lise shared the incident with them. The White Queen pondered, ��I almost forgot that entering the Virtual Realm requires transmigration through the Gate of Truth. I thought the Observer had other means�� So, was it them who opened the Gate thest two nights?��


    ck Butler asked, ��Why do they want us to open it tonight? Could it be a trap?��


    Deya suggested, ��Maybe it��s taking turns. Tonight us, tomorrow the Swordswoman, the day after the Observer����


    After some discussion that led to no definite conclusion, Lise, having finished drying her hair, couldn��t help but yawn. Then Deya took over, summoned the Mask spirit, captured the Gate of Truth, sank into consciousness, and connected to the Virtual Realm.


    When Deya opened her eyes, she found herself sitting in the front seat of a sports car. The vehicle, whichst night seemed ready to be junked and transformed into a Restroom, was nowpletely restored to its original state.


    In the car restored to its pristine condition, Deya was actually the most concerned about whether it could be fully repaired. After all, the other two had never endured the hardships of trekking through the Virtual Realm on foot, unlike her, who had once trekked across it for over a month. She knew firsthand that driving across the Time Continent was akin to receiving royal treatment.


    Comfortably stretching in the seat, she bent her head back in an angle that could cure neck pain. ��Swordswoman, I����


    Suddenly, Deya cut herself off, standing up on the seat and looking around. ��Where��s the Swordswoman? Where did she go? Did she get lost in the Reverse Golden Rain?��


    ��She��s got a match tonight and took the day off,�� Ashe replied. ��It��s just the two of us Exploring the Virtual Realm tonight.��


    ��What kind of match?��


    ��I��m not sure, but it��s probably a Sorcerer battle.��


    ��Oh, I��d love to see that!��


    ��Me too.��


    After their brief exchange, Deya sat back down properly, gazing at her knees and fiddling with her fingers. Ashe opened the Virtual Realm Map, shaking his head. ��Bad luck. We haven��tnded in an area marked on the map, like Star Hall. We��ll have to keep exploring unknown areas.��


    ��Right!��


    The sports car plunged into the Reverse Golden Rain, trampling over grass and crashing through trees in a wild sprint. Inside, it was quiet, with both upants acting like a driver and passenger adhering to trafficws��no chatting from the passenger to the driver, and the driver not engaging the passenger in conversation.


    Somehow, they both felt a bit awkward.


    Though they had previously spent time alone with the Observer and the Witch, those encounters were always straightforward��discuss business and leave without dragging things out. But now, during the downtime of their exploration, they had no serious topics to discuss and needed trivial banter to fill the silence.


    However, Ashe and Deya rarely engaged in such trivial banter.


    Previously, it was either Ashe chatting with Sonya or Deya yfully clinging to Sonya. As the most emotionally intelligent member of their trio, Sonya subtly acted as the team��s core. She would encourage Deya to speak when chatting with Ashe, and when Deya clung to her, Sonya would pretend to be annoyed and start talking about Ashe, always ensuring everyone was included and no one felt left out.


    This effortless charm in Sonya was not intentional; instead, it was the result of a year��s practice in social skills that had be second nature to her. Every nce, every word was a natural Miracle, making her a true master of social interactions.


    However, the moment Sonya was absent, theck of emotional intelligence in the other two became ringly obvious. Deya aside, Ashe��s emotional intelligence was somewhat limited to interactions with men. With men, he could easily blend in and make friends quickly, but with women�� he often didn��t know what topics to bring up.


    If Igor had been there, Ashe would have started with questions like, ��Are you dating anyone? nning to have kids in the future? If you could transform into a beautiful girl, would you prefer to be a voluptuousdy or a delicate and slender loli?�� and so forth, engaging in trivial banter that couldst until dawn.


    Deya was in a simr situation. Having plenty of experience as a younger sister, she naturally sought Sonya��s affection. She had previously dared to cozy up to Ashe only because Sonya was present, much like a child who behaves more boldly when under parental supervision.


    Darn it, she thought. If only they hadn��t revealed the truth about her sisters yesterday, then they could have brought in the White Queen today. But since the Observer now knew about her sisters, switching roles would seem impolite and only make things more awkward.


    ��There��s a Sorcerer Projection up ahead,�� Ashe suddenly said.


    ��Oh, just run it over.��


    ��Okay.��


    And so, a rather uneventful evening began.

 Chapter 258: We Cannot Be Without the Swordswoman

    Orbit College, sh Track Auditorium.


    Like the Starfall Auditorium at Swordflower College, the sh Track Auditorium also had its ceiling open. The difference, however, was that while Starfall Auditorium used mirrors to reflect the starlight into the hall, the sh Track Auditorium utilized a series of ss tracks. As the night sky emerged, the starlight would entangle along the ss tracks on the ceiling, circting around the entire auditorium. This maniption of starlight turned the interior as bright as day, adding an extrayer of solemnity.


    Ding! Ding! Ding!


    On stage, two young students were engaged in an intense battle. The slightly shorter male student, a Swordcerer from Swordflower College, faced off against a taller female student, a Spear Sorcerer from Orbit College.


    The spear, once the undisputed sovereign of the age of cold weapons, had always flourished even before the invention of firearms. Swords, axes, and hammers all had to bow before it.


    However, with the rise of firearms, the more agile ded weapons gradually took over the position held by spears, and consequentially, the sword technique factions became the most powerful weapon factions in the Stars Kingdom.


    Yet, no ancient sovereign would willingly fade into obscurity. Through generations of improvements and optimizations by Spear Sorcerers, the standard spear evolved into a three-segment mechanized staff spear. This new form was more flexible, more portable, and incorporated a broader range of lethal techniques. Today��s modern Spear Sorcerers not only retained the ancient might of the spear but also skillfully utilized the mechanized staff��s cunning capabilities, holding their own even against Gun Technique factions.


    In contrast, the axe and hammer technique factions hadpletely fallen from grace. Such was the brutal world of sorcerers; those unable to keep up with the times were mercilessly swept into the trash heap of the Virtual Realm, only to resurface when future sorcerers sifted through the past to revive and refine them.


    Spear technique had always been Orbit College��s ace faction. The team leader for this inter-college fellowship from Orbit College, known as the Spiral Cherry Saint, Belger, was a renowned Sanctuary Sorcerer for her mastery of spear techniques.The very thought of the final exhibition match against Belger made Sonya��s heart race��this was a rare opportunity to legitimately challenge a Sanctuary Sorcerer!


    ng!


    The female student��s spear suddenly transformed into a mechanized staff, slithering like a slick serpent to lock the male student��s longsword. With a pull and a lift, she not only sent the longsword flying but also swiftly morphed it back into a spear, now aimed directly at the male student��s throat!


    ��The match is decided!�� the host announced loudly. ��The winner is Cathy McIntosh from Orbit College! Now, let��s hear from the Professor for somements!��


    Sonya watched the host, who controlled the entire event with such grace and poise, and couldn��t help but feel a bit dazed��she was supposed to be in that position, initially hosting for her school and then for the league, earning the audience��s affection before transitioning into a career as a Songstress or a performer, embarking on a path sustained by her poprity.


    However, she found herself sitting in the guest section, as the Chief representative for the Friendly Match, under the watchful, important, and sometimes hostile eyes of other students from Orbit College.


    Orbit College and Swordflower College were both top contenders in Gales,peting fiercely with one another. Moreover, followingst year��s narrow victory by Swordflower College in the Intercollegiate League, the students from Orbit College were eager to reim their lead this year, making this Friendly Match a critical prelude.


    This time, Sonya might not have the chance to be the brightest supporting character, but she did have the opportunity to be the sole protagonist.


    ��Cathy��s use of the ��Disengage�� spirit was too rudimentary, failing to utilize the features of the Mechanized Staff and focusing too heavily on the Spear��s thrusting capabilities���� Spiral Cherry Saint Belger meticulously critiqued the female student��s performance in battle, indicating that Cathy must be a student well-known to Belger.


    This was not unusual, as theoretically, the team for the Friendly Match should be chosen fairly from among the best students, but often, the best students were the Professors�� favorites, just like Sonya became the Chief due to Leoni��s rmendation and because the team-leading Professor was Hidden Hand Sword Saint Trozan.


    If the team-leading Professor had been Rhythm Sword Saint Nidhogg, Sonya might have made the team, but the Chief position would undoubtedly have gone to Leoni, who was Nidhogg��s Apprentice.


    The so-called Friendly Match was like a battle of pets for the Professors, who naturally preferred to use their familiar fighters.


    After Belger finished her critique, the pressure shifted to Trozan. The renowned Hidden Hand Sword Saint seemed a bit impatient, scratching her unruly, tangled hair. Suddenly, she turned to the Chief from Swordflower College next to her, ��Did you get that?��


    ��What?�� Sonya was confused.


    ��If you understood, then you exin it,�� Trozan said assertively. ��I don��t feel like repeating the critique.��


    The rustic girl was baffled��how could you talk as if you��ve just exined the critique to me!?


    Sonya rose to her feet, feeling the eyes of everyone on her, especially the eager vanguard from her own school, waiting for her to speak. Internally, she cursed Professor Trozan for putting her in such a position, but with no choice, she stood up.


    Professor Trozan rarely taught swordy theory, often saying that ��pain is a better teacher than words.�� Her approach to teaching Sonya and Felix involved real Combat, not just sparring with controlled strength, but overwhelming them with the full force of a Sanctuary Sorcerer.


    It was like pouring a swimming pool��s worth of water into their wooden barrels, making them acutely aware of every shoring, every Loophole. This harsh method of teaching was tough, and Sonya and Felix had barely managed to adapt. Anyone else might have developed a psychological trauma, not just identifying weaknesses, but having their barrel burst altogether.


    Previously, Sonya thought this was tailored education, but now that Professor Trozan had suddenly pushed the task of critiquing onto her, a thought struck her��could it be that Professor Trozan was actually incapable of theoretical instruction?


    But she wasn��t equipped to instruct either!


    She was just a novice Swordcerer with less than a month of training!


    Nevertheless, seeing Professor Trozan shift her gaze away guiltily, Sonya feltpelled to maintain her professor��s dignity as much as possible. She recalled the recent Battle, attempting to offer suggestions from the perspective of swordy factions. However, what came to mind were simple and directmands:


    ��In the 8th round, aim for the chest with an upward strike.��


    ��In the 13th round, retreat and thrust at the throat.��


    ��In the 15th round, break through the abdomen with your sword��s energy.��


    ��In the 19th round����


    Amidst the puzzled looks of the audience, Sonya announced eightmands, ��These were eight opportunities you had during the fight. Seizing even one of them could have easily led you to victory against your opponent.��


    ��That��s impossible!�� Cathy, who had just won, immediately objected: ��The entire Battle was under my control; he didn��t stand a chance!��


    The male student looked frustrated but couldn��t refute, for weakness is the original sin, and losers are med even for breathing. Moreover, he had lost in the vanguard battle, and now, the School Forum at Swordflower College was likely filled with criticisms, using him of disgracing the college.


    Belger was somewhat surprised. He turned to Professor Trozan: ��Hidden Hand Sword Saint, was this your guidance?��


    Professor Trozan nced at him, then turned her eyes towards the somewhat panicked Sonya, nodding heavily: ��Yes, that was indeed my intention. So you see why I couldn��t be bothered toment myself. There were so many opportunities for victory, yet my student missed every single one. It��s not that your student was particrly strong, but rather that our students are too weak.��


    As a popr professor at Swordflower College, Professor Trozan had a knack for provoking others, and the students from Orbit College were nearly brought to tears. Seeing this, Belger stopped ying nice and snorted: ��y the Battle rey, let��s appreciate Professor Trozan��s expert guidance!��


    Belger didn��t doubt that Professor Trozan could provide such precise, surgical-like guidance, but she had been staring into space just moments ago, clearly distracted by Curtain. She hadn��t been focusing on the match at all! Moreover, by deliberately letting her studentment, it was obvious that these critiques didn��t originate from Professor Trozan, but from the Chief of Swordflower!


    Although the Spear Sorcerer faction became much more flexible after incorporating the Mechanized Staff, it remained a straightforward and stern Magical Faction. Belger, known as the ��Spiral Cherry Saint,�� was a typical representative of this group.


    What he despised the most were those who were not serious about their work, like Professor Trozan, a Genius who was distracted and neglected proper decorum. Even without any personal grudge, he found it irritating just to look at her. Now that Professor Trozan had given him an opening, Belger didn��t mind putting her in an awkward position.


    As for whether the Chief could provide urate critiques�� Belger had already investigated her. A month ago, she was just a first-year student in the Water Department, but likely had many years of Swordsmanship training earlier. This allowed her to summon a Sword spirit during the Battle and, by a stroke of luck in the Virtual Realm, she encountered a Whirlpool and gained the Silver Full-Wing.


    However, these lucky ones often had one obvious issue: a shallow foundation. Her level of Swordsmanship was probably far below her level of arcane energy. Not to mention guiding others, she might not even know how to guide herself.


    This was also one of the reasons Belger was displeased with Trozan: promoting a student who had be a Sorcerer less than a month ago to the position of Chief Battle could only be attributed to Trozan��s personal motives.


    Belger had little respect for school professors who manipted power in such a way.


    Not to mention that Trozan didn��t do the work herself, but instead used her students as shields, which was truly a disgrace for a professor!


    However, as the Holographic Screen in the auditorium yed the freshly made Battle rey, the auditorium gradually quieted down, and even Belger showed a look of astonishment.


    Aim for the chest with an upward strike, retreat and thrust at the throat�� Every point directed by Sonya was a critical juncture that could have turned the Battle around! If the vanguard from Swordflower College had followed Sonya��s guidance, they could have easily broken through Cathy��s Spear blockade!


    Cathy watched with a pale face, unable to believe that her victory had been such a fluke; but her opponent was also distressed, stomping their feet in frustration at having missed so many opportunities and ultimately losing in such an embarrassing manner.


    After the rey ended, the auditorium remained silent until the host��s voice, seemingly imbued with vitality, rang out: ��Thank you very much to both professors for their meticulous guidance. Next, please wee the students from the vanguard battle����


    As the second Friendly Match began, Trozan rubbed her temples, looking like a woman who had just woken up from a hangover: ��It seems I really can��t take it easy�� I��ll handle thementary from here on out, Sonya. Yourments would make everyone unhappy.��


    Sonya instinctively wanted to thank the professor for her mercy�� but she quickly realized thatmentary was actually the professor��s job. Why should she be thankful when Trozan was merely fulfilling her responsibilities?


    She should be questioning why the professor had suddenly Passed the Buck!


    Damn, this is the terrifying aspect of power. When Upper-tier Persons capriciously torment Down-tier Persons, not only can thetter not resist, but they might even feel grateful when the former decides to spare them�� Such enviable power!


    I too wish to be one of those Upper-tier Persons whose every word and action are as impactful as Thunder!


    Sonya was still puzzled as to why Trozan said herments could make people unhappy. Upon closer inspection, she noticed the Swordflower vanguard looking dejected, while the victorious opponents also had haggard expressions, clearly affected by her words.


    It wasn��t Sonya��s intention to hurt them; her guidance wasn��t derived from Faction Realm politics but from ��Sword Command Techniques.��


    ��Sword Command Techniques�� didn��t significantly enhance individual strength, but when used to direct others, it had an almost miraculous effect.


    Sonya began to realize how luckyst night��s victory had been��if Demilo had beenmanding his troops in a proper battle, even if the Observer��s car was robust and fast, it would have been reduced to scrap metal under the precise surgicalmand.


    Unfortunately, the Observer dragged the battlefield into a Manure pit, allowing Demilo to use less than a tenth of his capabilities. Coupled with the cooperation of their three Sorcerers, they barely managed to defeat the unfortunate heroic soul.


    As she pondered, the second front guard battle began, and Sonya nced at it only to lose interest quickly��frankly, even the Observer��sbat skills were more refined.


    Though both vanguards likely possessed the arcane energy of Silver Half-Wings, theirck of real Combat experience was evident. They fought without enough ruthlessness or ferocity, leading Sonya to think in the Observer��s terms: ��Fighting like this won��t kill anyone.��


    Sonya even doubted they had killed many ying Fish-Dragons.


    Disinterested in the match, Sonya looked for Leoni to chat but saw her engrossed in something.


    The rustic girl moved her chair closer, and Leoni nced up, ��Want to join me?��


    ��What are you looking at?��


    ��Astrology.�� Leoni raised the book in her hand, its cover titled ��1668  The Seventy-Two Constetions Life Book.��

 Chapter 259: Like a Child Without a Mother

    Chapter 259: Like a Child Without a Mother


    Sonyaughed, ��Senior Sister, you actually believe in this?��


    The Orange-haired Dancer pursed her lips. ��I believe it if it��s something good; if it��s bad, then I don��t.��


    Astrology is quite popr in the Stars Kingdom, but it��s just that��popr, without any real authority. After all, the seventy-two constetions are divided by birth dates. If one could truly discern Destiny this way, it might as well be done based on looks or family background, which would likely be far more urate.


    Astrology, rather than being a book of Prophecy, is better described as a book on psychology. People seek these readings not for their literal truth but for a sense of resonance and peace of mind. Many, after all, go through life without receiving a single blessing, praise, or word offort. When they see phrases like ��Your hardships are over, happiness awaits tomorrow�� in their horoscope, it might just save them, giving them the courage to face another day.


    ��I��m from the Pegasus constetion, what about you, Sonya?��


    ��I��m from the Moth Constetion.��


    ��The Moth Constetion, May���� Leoni flipped to a page in the middle. ��May is aplex and changeable month for the Moth. Your romantic rtionships will face challenges, as endless temptations test your lover; but your career will take off, with countless opportunities helping you to start anew����


    Leoni nodded as she read, ��At least it��s half right. You��ll definitelye across many opportunities this month, Junior Sister. Hehe, good thing you��re not in a rtionship, or your lover might just get stolen away�� What��s with that expression, Junior Sister?��


    ��Nothing.�� Sonya quickly managed her expression, putting on a professional smile. ��Let me take a look at that book.��The rustic girl closely examined the Moth Constetion��s astrology page, growing more astonished by the moment. Not only did many details match, but April��s reading was ��This month will bring you a change���� Wasn��t this referring to the appearance of the Observer?


    So urate!


    After carefully reading through the Moth Constetion section, Sonya pondered for a moment and decided to look up the Observer��s astrology��


    ��Ah? What constetion is the Observer again?


    Had the Observer ever told me his birthday?


    Thinking it over, the Observer didn��t know my birthday either.


    We really don��t know much about each other�� Realizing this, Sonya couldn��t help but sigh softly, gazing at her own Moth Constetion star chart.


    As she looked through the pages, Sonya suddenly felt a sense of familiarity with the Moth Constetion.


    This star arrangement, wasn��t it the same one from the Commander��s Handbook by Demilo?!


    The astrology book listed each star with a name and number. Sonya flipped to the star name directory at the back and quickly found the names of the other two stars marked by Demilo����Loda�� and ��Vos.��


    Vlozrada?


    Did Demilo know someone from the Vlozrada Family? Could it mean that Demilo was from the Stars Kingdom?


    Stars Kingdom�� Star Hall��


    If it were just one coincidence, Sonya might not have jumped to conclusions, but multiple factors subtly pointed to the celestial dome above, making it hard for Sonya not to suspect that the Star Hall was an affiliate of the Stars Sovereign.


    Wait, does that mean I killed an employee of the Stars Sovereignst night? I hope the Sovereign won��t hold it against me.


    I need to discuss this issue with the Observer and the Witch tomorrow night��


    Just thinking about those two made Sonya feel a bit sour inside. Even though she had already made her decision, when things actually happened, it still upset her enough to want to destroy something.


    What would they be doing in the Virtual Realmter?


    Would they talk about their hobbies?


    Would they discuss how to better coordinate in battle?


    Would they speak ill of me?


    The Observer surely wouldn��t miss this chance to get closer to the Witch, and the Witch definitely wouldn��t miss this opportunity to win over the Observer�� Humph, despicable pair!


    Virtual Realm, Time Continent.


    When thest White Velocidragon was pierced through the snout by a Heart Sword, the battle at the timber Resource Point also came to an end. The two selected the materials they needed, and the rest were turned into reserve essence by Ashe.


    Back in the vehicle, Ashe sat in the front while Deya consciously took a seat in the back, and they positioned themselves at the farthest diagonal corners, as if a sad, thick barrier had risen between them.


    Silence.


    Silence was the theme of tonight in the Virtual Realm.


    Even though they worked seamlessly together in battle, with Witch Deya upfront handling the defense and output, and Observer Ashe in the back using the Heart Sword and Substitute for finishing moves, once they were out of their work roles, they still couldn��t find the right topics to bridge their conversation.


    Originally, Ashe had wanted to mimic the Swordswoman by gently touching the Witch��s cowlick as a sign of encouragement after the battle. However, tonight the Witch��s usual cowlick wasn��t sticking up! Had she washed her hair this evening?


    Moreover, as soon as Ashe raised his hand, the Witch looked at him nervously, causing Ashe to awkwardly change his gesture to scratching his own head.


    ��There��s a special ce up ahead.��


    ��Okay.��


    That was the extent of their conversation tonight, their atmosphere akin to that of a father returning from a work trip and his daughter who had been looked after by her grandparents��familiar yet distant.


    However, after breaking through several Reverse Golden Rains, the two Sorcerers quickly set aside the tedious emotions weighing on their minds.


    For the grandeur before them now upied all their thoughts.


    It was a three-story building that stood out from the other ruins and wastnds of the Time Continent with its meticulous ebony double doors and interlocking white brick walls. Colorful stained ss windows shimmered enchantingly under the golden rain, making it impossible to glimpse the interior from outside. Monstrous stone sculptures sat atop the roof, overlooking any visitors from amanding height.


    Although it wasn��t a battle phase, Ashe and Deya felt even more tense than during actualbat.


    It was as if they weren��t just exploring the Time Continent, but visiting an ancient seer.


    The two exchanged nces, and Ashe, gathering his courage, pushed open the grand doors. The creaking and dragging sound echoed like ripples, awakening remnants long sealed by time.


    It was a library.


    What met their eyes was a peculiar maze of bookshelves��tall shelves served as walls, and the hangingmps warmed the knowledge within.


    The styles of the bookshelves varied greatly: there were shelves carved from rock, standard wooden shelves, and even fully transparent ss shelves that emitted a faint, technologically advanced glow from pure white shelves; they held not only bound books but also parchment rolls, scrolls, stone tablets, and even small devices resembling USB drives.


    Both ancient and advanced��this was their first impression of the library.


    ��Where is this ce?��


    ��Where is this ce?��


    Ashe and Deya both instinctively asked each other, then paused momentarily in surprise.


    Both simultaneously realized a critical issue��among those who had received formal Sorcerer education, only the Swordswoman was truly knowledgeable!


    Without the Swordswoman, they didn��t even know what this new, special building was!


    Swordswoman!


    Pleasee back!


    The team can��t function without the Swordswoman, just like a child can��t function without a mother!

 Chapter 260: The Legendary Library

    Chapter 260: The Legendary Library


    Though the Swordswoman, known for her immense wisdom, was absent, the two Sorcerers quickly figured out how to use the library. Right before them, on the first bookshelf, there was a book emitting a brilliant green glow as if it were saying, ��Look at me, look at me.��


    Guide to the Legendary Library


    ��Congrattions to every Sorcerer who steps into this library, your luck is unparalleled, your story will be told by thousands, you are the light, you are the electricity, you are the myth of the future!��


    ��This library was built by the ��Dramatic Poet���� Remember this name, for�� is the narrator of Destiny, holding the scepter of contradictions, directing countless joys and sorrows, witnessing the world��s unions and separations.��


    ��Among the billions in the Virtual Realm, none canpare to�� even by half!��


    ��But�� is a generous Sorcerer, and thus built the Legendary Library especially for the sessors, scattering their own glory to any fortunate one!��


    ��The following reading rules must be adhered to in this library����


    ���� Aside from this guide, each person may only read one book. Rarity brings value.��


    ���� The path you walk must not be retraced. There are no do-overs in life.������ The library has four floors, each higher level contains books of better quality than the one below. Always aim higher.��


    ���� Books may deceive you. It��s better to be skeptical than to believe everything.��


    ���� As a price for acquiring knowledge, every Sorcerer must leave behind a memory. You may choose which memory to leave. This is an equivalent exchange.��


    ��While reading any book, you have a chance to receive any reward, including but not limited to spirits mentioned in the books, Miracles, treasures, special abilities, etc. For instance, if the book mentions a deity, gaining a deity isn��t out of the question!��


    ��Although there are no specific requirements for the memories left behind, this library spans countless golden years. Even the most significant memories you leave might remain undiscovered by sessors for thousands of years. So, try to leave your most thrilling memories; after all, if everyone were selfish, then you��re likely to only encounter dull memories.��


    ��Method to leave memories: Simply press any gap in the bookshelf.��


    ��Method to leave: Once you finish reading a book and have left a memory, you will automatically be transported to the entrance.��


    Legendary Library!


    Never heard of it before.


    However, the guide has already detailed how to use this library. In simple terms, pick a book to read, and upon finishing, you might gain anything that appeared in the book. Then, leave behind a memory toplete your transaction with the Legendary Library.


    ��Why have the builder��s names turned into dots? Is their name actually ��������?�� Deya eximed in surprise.


    ��It could be that the builder thought it undignified to leave a name in the guide, so they erased their own name; or perhaps the builder didn��t erase their name, but someone else did it for them����Dramatic Poet��s�� real name has beenpletely obliterated, so even the guide��s mentions have disappeared.��


    ��The power to erase a name���� Deya murmured. ��Did they offend some Divine Master?��


    ��Perhaps they offended them all.�� Ashe looked at the phrase ��Among the billions in the Virtual Realm, none canpare to�� even by half,�� feeling that although the Dramatic Poet might not deserve death, they were certainly seeking death.


    Being so arrogant, if I were a Divine Master, I��d be annoyed with you just for not wearing a hat.


    However, the fate of the builder clearly wasn��t a concern for the two junior Sorcerers. They turned their gaze to the bookshelves and then looked at each other.


    ��Together?��


    ��Let��s go!��


    Entering the exploration phase, Ashe and Deya were both very excited. A structure in the Virtual Realm like this, previously unencountered yet safe, was as irresistible to Sorcerers as dung to flies.


    Walking through the Maze, they quickly understood what the guide meant by ��Books may deceive you����each book on the shelves emitted a variety of ��impressive but inexplicable�� auras. A scroll glowed with rune brilliance, a piece of parchment exuded an air of history, and even a suspicious data storage USB stick showed off electric Pattern Lines. Everything was tightly controlled in terms of aura.


    As for the bound books, they were even more impressive��one looked like the notebook of a Death Monarch, another like the spellbook of a Time Lord, and there was even one with a cover featuring a beauty��daring to tempt me without even featuring silk stockings, how disrespectful!


    However, since the guide mentioned that the quality of the books would improve with each ascending level, Ashe and Deya were not fooled by the first level��s offerings. They quickly moved past the shelves of the first floor and reached the second level.


    The variety of books on the second level was even greater: crystal balls, tapestries, cards, human skin books�� Nearly everything capable of recording information was collected as books by the Legendary Library. Now, the journey for Ashe and Deya became even more challenging �� not only had the allure of the books increased, but their very essence seemed to twist reality itself!


    For instance, a book that appeared to be made from Bewitcher human skin (judged by the hair) emitted a pink, seductive fragrance. Even from a distance, the faint, enticing scent filled their minds with strange thoughts, making it impossible for them to walk directly past it.


    On another side, a crystal skull was emitting a glowing green light, and the smell of decay hit them full in the face, walking past it would feel almost like bathing in the River of Flowing Gold, prematurely experiencing what retirement feels like.


    Since retreating was not an option in the library, they had to carefully find a safe path to the third level. However, as they were making their way, Deya noticed that Ashe had stopped.


    ��What��s wrong?��


    ��I found the book I want to read,�� Ashe said. ��You go on to the third floor.��


    ��But we��re only on the second floor!�� Deya was puzzled. ��The best books are on the fourth floor!��


    ��But I want to read this book.�� Ashe reached out and pulled a book from a nearby shelf, his actions clearly showing his resolve. Deya wanted to persuade him further, but seeing his determination, she had no choice but to continue alone towards the staircase to the third floor.


    Ashe leaned against the bookshelf, flipping through the book in his hands. He didn��t choose any of those that seemed to tell tales of thunderous devastation or the rise and fall of worlds, but rather a seemingly mundane book, for a very simple reason �� he heard the sound of hammeringing from within, as familiar andforting as the noise his father made every Saturday morning at seven-thirty.


    Ashe has never considered himself a sentimental person, at least that��s what he believes.


    It��s been almost a month since he transmigrated to this world, yet for him, his past life feels as distant as if it belonged to someone else��even though it indeed was his previous life.


    He has always avoided dwelling on what his transmigration means for his family because that road leads only to a morass of despair. To even ponder it is to risk being suffocated by sadness, drowning in a sea of unreal misery.


    However, upon hearing the nging of steel, Ashe couldn��t help but feel a surge of warmth and longing. Just that alone made it worthwhile for him to read the book as a way to honor this nostalgia that blossomed in a foreignnd.


    More importantly, Ashe was indifferent about which book he chose to read. ording to the guide, what a Sorcerer gains from reading is entirely random��good luck might bring a rare spirit, while bad luck could yield something as trivial as the nail clippers mentioned in the text. And if the author was particrly uninspired, virtually anything could be in the offing.


    As for his own luck, Ashe has always maintained a pessimistic attitude.

 Chapter 261: The Gift from the Swordswoman to Sonya

    Chapter 261: The Gift from the Swordswoman to Sonya


    When Ashe flipped through the pages of the book, he felt as if he had transformed into the protagonist within, personally experiencing each memory recounted.


    Interestingly, the book was not a tale of cksmithing.


    Or rather, it was not just about cksmithing, which left Ashe, who had anticipated a cksmithing story, somewhat disappointed.


    The sorcerer who left these memories seemed to be a multi-faceted Creator Sorcerer, particrly skilled in the Mind Faction.


    He managed to enve a Knowledge Creature in the Virtual Realm, then infused it with multi-faction Miracles, including the ��Hormonal Fury�� from the biological faction and ��Iron Scale Armor�� from the Alchemy Faction, among others. Riding this Knowledge Creature, he wreaked havoc across the Time Continent.


    Despite the book��s sorcerer likely being a Genius among the Two Wings, Ashe vaguely remembered that the Blood Moon Kingdom had a poption of several hundred million, and the Gospel Kingdom was not small either, not to mention other kingdoms. Among these billions of people, the emergence of thousands, if not tens of thousands, of Geniuses was almost inevitable. Therefore, a sorcerer who could traverse the Virtual Realm with such impunity was likely one of many.


    This realization made Ashe discreetly curb his disdain. Because of items like the Sorcerer Handbook, the Map, and his sports car, he didn��t see his peers in the Virtual Realm as threats, nor did he think they could catch up to him.


    However, reality told him that even without cheats, sports cars, or maps, a Genius could still create a monster mount surpassing the current Version, push through the Virtual Realm, and plunder arcane energy!


    ��In the frostden sky of myriad creatures, freedompetes.�� This is the only Rule of the Virtual Realm.I have cheats, you have Talent, he has luck, and we all have a bright future.


    The book documented the sorcerer��s process of enving and modifying the Knowledge Creature. It might have been highly beneficial for a sorcerer of the Mind Faction or Alchemy Faction to read, but Ashe��s involvement with the Mind Faction was merely a side transfer from the Swordswoman, superficial at best. Thus, while he understood each knowledge point presented, he couldn��t grasp how they interconnected, making it as iprehensible as attending an advanced mathematics ss.


    After leisurely finishing the book, Ashe immediately knew what reward he had gained.


    All the Swordsmanship spirits on him burst forth, and a golden hammer emerged from the book, striking each Swordsmanship spirit heavily.


    ng! The Thrust Sword spirit transformed into Two Wings.


    ng! The Cleave Sword spirit transformed into Two Wings.


    ng! The Heart Sword spirit transformed into Two Wings.


    In the blink of an eye, all of Ashe��s Swordsmanship spirits were promoted to Two Wings!


    This was the reward for reading the book, and it was also a Miracle once performed by the Genius sorcerer in the book����Refining Sword into Wings��!


    The Genius sorcerer liked to enve closebat Knowledge Creatures such as the ying Fish-Dragon, Rampage Dragon, and Umbre Bird-Dragon, which often carried Swordsmanship spirits. Thus, the Genius came up with a way to make them even stronger��forcibly upgrading their spirits that had not yet evolved to Two Wings!


    Forcing the promotion of a One Wing spirit to Two Wings might sound like cheating, but for a Genius, cheating is what counts as a Miracle. Hence, ��Refining Sword into Wings�� was born��merely by performing this Miracle, one could elevate all the target��s Swordsmanship spirits to Two Wings!


    However, this Miracle is not permanent and even requires the sorcerer to continually expend arcane energy to maintain it. Once the arcane energy is interrupted, the temporarily promoted Two Wings spirits will revert to One Wing.


    This high-threshold Miracle is unlikely to be learned by anyone other than an Alchemist, but what ordinary Alchemist would need to practice the Swordsmanship Faction? Thus, ��Refining Sword into Wings�� is a very impractical Miracle, only meaningful in the hands of this Genius sorcerer.


    But as a reward, this Miracle takes on a different significance.


    Now, all of Ashe��s Swordsmanship spirits have been elevated to Two Wings, but this Miracle was not performed by a sorcerer but activated by the Legendary Library.


    Or rather, this Miracle has the backing of the Virtual Realm.


    This also means that even though ��Refining Sword into Wings�� was originally just a temporary enhancement Miracle, once the Sorcerer is supported by the Virtual Realm, the temporary enhancement bes permanent!


    There may be many hidden issues, such as these spirits not being able to promote to Tri-wings, but Ashe clearly doesn��t care about that. Setting aside whether he could even promote to Tri-wings, even if he could advance quickly to that level, he could just switch to other Tri-wings spirits and alter his tactical system. There��s no need to cling to these few spirits as if they were heirlooms.


    Many Sorcerers might stubbornly evolve their favorite spirits step by step, but as a Mudblood Sorcerer, Ashe has no attachment or perseverance toward ��Swordsmanship��, ��belief��, or ��spirits that have apanied him for many years��.


    If a more useful ve spirites along, Ashe is even willing to rece his first acquired spirit, ��Substitute��!


    To him, Operators are like limbs, but spirits are like clothes; such is Ashe��s rule!


    As for the promotion of ��Cleave Sword�� and ��Thrust Sword��, that was one thing, but Ashe did not expect ��Heart Sword�� to also be promoted to Two Wings. The ��Heart Sword�� is extremely valuable and practical, and the Swordswoman had always hoped Ashe would promote this agile attacking spirit to Two Wings. Ashe himself was reluctant to let go of this flexible spirit. However, his own Swordsmanship Faction was so weak that he could only rely on slowly feeding it Swordsmanship materials to grow.


    Now that ��Heart Sword�� has been promoted to Two Wings, Ashe no longer needs topete with the Swordswoman for Swordsmanship materials, and his attack power can finally break through defenses!


    Hmph, wait until the Swordswoman logs on tomorrow night, she��s in for a big surprise!


    Ashe was very satisfied with his gains and returned the book to the shelf. The next step was to leave a part of his memory here as well.


    Which memory to leave seemed obvious��memories from his past life couldn��t be left; those were treasures and secrets he refused to share with others. As for the memories of this life, only the escape from prison episode could slightly touch on the ��Legend��.


    Ashe ced his finger on the shelf and quickly entered a state of recollection. In the gap where his finger pointed, a new book was slowly forming��


    Meanwhile, on the first floor of the Legendary Library, a red-haireddy dressed in ck gauze was pressing her finger against a bookshelf. Her body, like smoldering ashes, seemed ethereal, as though she could dissipate into a wisp of light smoke at any moment.


    Like threads of memory being woven together, a new book gradually formed. The moment it fully materialized, countless screams of madness spread like ripples, all the bookshelves oozed dark red blood, and the floor seemed to turn into a soft, decaying mire, inch by inch swallowing those who entered the library.


    However, when the red-haireddy pulled the book out, all the anomalies disappeared.


    ��Hmph, just as expected,�� she chuckled. ��Although the guide suggests reading the book first, then recording memories, in fact, these two steps do not have a sequential order.��


    ��That means one can record memories first, and then read the book, including�� the memories just set down.��


    ��Sonya.�� She flipped open the book. ��Hope you like this gift.��

 Chapter 262: No Longer the Silver Sorcerer

    Chapter 262: No Longer the Silver Sorcerer


    ��The situation looks grim����


    Watching Leoni retreat step by step on the stage, the faces of the Swordflower Collegepetition team members darkened.


    They hadn��t expected Leoni, who was supposed to handle the Chief Battle, to already show signs of defeat in the Vice Chief battle.


    Although the order of vanguard, front guard, center, vice chief, and chief can be adjusted at will, typically the strongest are cedter, with the strongest as the chief.


    If someone wanted to employ dirty tactics, such as using a ��strong horse against a weak horse, weak horse against a strong horse�� strategy to secure an overall victory in a Friendly Match, it would be within the rules and beyond reproach, but don��t expect other schools to engage with you next year �� Friendly Matches are meant to scout talented students among schools, and the oue doesn��t affect league scores. If you resort to tricks in such matches, don��t be surprised if others refuse to y along next time.


    Everyone can y tricks, but no one likes it when tricks are yed all the time. Using cunning in Friendly Matches will cost you friendships.


    This also meant �� Orbit College��s Vice Chief was on par with Leoni, even gaining the upper hand!


    Before rmending Sonya, Leoni had been this year��s top contender from Swordflower!


    Orbit��s second-best was about to defeat Swordflower��s former number one!Moreover, they had already lost the vanguard battle, and the front guard, ast-minute substitute, was also defeated, leaving only the center battle with a win. If they lose the Vice Chief battle, the score would turn 3:1, and even if they win the Chief Battle, they would still lose overall.


    Not to mention, Sonya was responsible for the Chief Battle. Thinking of this, everyone grew even more pessimistic.


    True, the Red-haired Swordswoman had rapidly risen to fame, known throughout the school, and even managed to draw with Leoni in a match, but thepetition team members didn��t trust her strength. Despite their reluctance, Leoni and Professor Trozan both endorsed Sonya for the Chief, and the other team members had no choice but to convince themselves with the rationale of ��a weaker horse challenging a stronger one.��


    Their skepticism towards Sonya was not unfounded��her time as a Swordcerer had been too short, and she had experienced too few battles. Even though the Red-haired Swordswoman had managed a draw with the Orange Dancer, it was because they were both seasoned Swordcerers, familiar with each other��s techniques, which gave them an informational advantage.


    However, whenpeting externally, they would face Sorcerers from various factions, each with their own unique and unpredictable methods. At such times,bat experience bes crucial. Leoni, having participated in the Intercollegiate League the previous year and spent thest six months intensively battling creatures in the Abyss, had amassed a wealth ofbat experience and on-the-spot reaction skills.


    In contrast, Sonya had only ever fought against Swordcerers within the school, had never participated in the league, nor ventured into the Abyss. Compared to the battle-hardened Leoni, she was like a naive girl who had never ventured beyond her own backyard.


    Even if she encountered battles in the Virtual Realm, how much experience could she really umte?


    Did she know how to confront a Spear Sorcerer?


    Was she familiar with the four tactics against a Fire Sorcerer?


    Did she know what to do if a Wind Sorcerer blew up her skirt?


    Had she ever experienced the trash-talk storms typical ofpetition arenas?


    Thus, the team was quite pessimistic about Sonya��s prospects in the Chief Battle, feeling that she was merely there to soak in the atmosphere. As for winning or losing, participating was deemed good enough.


    If they had won the previous four battles, having Sonya participate in one would have been harmless; but now, with the score likely turning 3:1, and potentially 4:1 after the Chief Battle, they would have to brace for a storm of criticism on the School Forum upon their return.


    ��Huff.��


    The third note of ��Melody Rhythm�� was abruptly interrupted as Leoni was knocked back three meters. However, she gracefully spun in the air, lightly touched the ground, and steadied herselfpletely.


    ��You��ve gotten quite strong, Skoll.��


    Standing in front of the Orange-haired Dancer was a dark-skinned man dual-wielding nunchucks.


    He was dressed in a glittering Battle Garment that made his dark skin stand out even more, tall and lean, holding ebony nunchucks modeled like bird heads. He shuffled in ce with quick, small steps, his movements both agile and sharp.


    Skoll, the Vice-Chief of Orbit, majored in one of Orbit College��s mainstream factions��the Nunchuck Faction. This faction evolved from the Fist and w Faction and integrated the essence of Sword and Spear Sorcerer factions. It is a Magical Faction that has developed in thest two hundred years, characterized by high speed, flexibility, and explosive power.


    Leoni was indeed unlucky. Against a regr Spear Sorcerer, her ��Melody Rhythm�� with its swift movements would normally allow her to take control of the Battle. Unfortunately, Skoll was also a high-agility fighter, able to keep up with Leoni��s pace effortlessly.


    ��You too,�� Skoll smiled and said, ��I didn��t expect that in just a year, you would be the famed Orange Dancer. I regretted not facing you in the arena before, but now I finally have the chance.��


    Both had participated inst year��s Intercollegiate League but were merely supporting roles back then, only briefly crossing paths. Now, it was their turn to be the shining main characters.


    ��However, I thought you would be this year��s Chief of Swordflower,�� Skoll nced at Sonya below, ��could it be that your junior is stronger than you?��


    ��Heh, she is a genuine monster.��


    ��Then she��s my next target. I hope she won��t disappoint.��


    ��Don��t rush it.��


    Leoni drew a short sword from her waist: ��Looking at other pretty girls while on a date with ady is a Taboo, you know.��


    ��You should keep focusing on me instead.��


    Skoll��s expression became slightly more serious. ��Dual swords? Could it be the Rhythm Sword Saint��s����


    ��That��s right, exactly what you��re thinking!��


    In an instant, Leoni disappeared from sight. Skoll swung his nunchucks across his chest defensively, but his shoulders drooped softly, and his legs slightly bent, appearingpletely rxed.


    Miracle: One-Arm Domain!


    In this state, any attack within the reach of Skoll��s arm would trigger an immediate, high-speed counterattack. His agility, strength, reaction speed, and insight were all enhanced, coupled with the Nunchuck Faction��s explosive power, effectively restraining Leoni��s movements!


    Even at the Silver Rank, the ��One-Arm Domain�� is a powerful Miracle of the upper-tier radiant silver. Of course, it also has a clear drawback��if facing a Sorcerer proficient in long-range attacks, this Miracle bes useless. However, if Skoll were to confront a long-range Sorcerer, he naturally has other strategies and could still use his nunchucks to smash the Sorcerer��s head.


    The defensive effectiveness of the One-Arm Domain is beyond question. For instance, Skoll��s highest recorded reaction was instantly deflecting five Shot Bullets, proving that within ten steps, not even a Gun Technique practitioner could halt his advance!


    If it��s beyond ten steps, then those practitioners also can��t stop Skoll from escaping.


    However, at this moment, Skoll��s expression was extremely grave, as if anticipating a significant challenge. Leoni had vanished from the stage, only asionally shing a hint of orange.


    Her voice drifted across the stage: ��Do you know what the most enchanting music in the world is?��


    ��It��s silence.��


    ng!


    Suddenly, a piercing sound exploded through the Shining Trail Church, followed by a brief deafness��the screeching noise, like the most venomous and bloated bug, desperately burrowed deep into everyone��s ears, cutting off all external vibrations!


    Silence descended!


    Just then, Skoll swiftly turned and swung his nunchuck, unleashing purple lightning like divine punishment aimed at Leoni behind him!


    Miracle: Purple Lightning Naginata!


    However, the nunchuck passed through, shattering only the image in his mind. The real Leoni appeared at his side.


    Skoll hesitated for a split second, and his chest was already pierced by Leoni��s long and short swords. The Orange Dancer, still unsatisfied, tripped Skoll and pinned him to the stage with her sword!


    ��The match�� is decided!�� The host, sickened by the piercing noise, struggled to fulfill his duties: ��The winner, Leoni Vickt from Swordflower College!��


    By this time, others had mostly recovered, and medical Sorcerers eagerly came forward to treat Skoll.


    In both Friendly Matches and the Intercollegiate League, students must rely solely on their own abilities without any protective Miracles from their colleges.


    For instance, when Sonya and Felix sparred, they were protected by a Star Robe, a privilege for outstanding students within the school, something that wouldn��t appear in officialpetitions unless the student themselves mastered the Star Robe Miracle.


    After all, if colleges could armor their students, the Intercollegiate League would merely be a contest of who has the mostyers of armor.


    Having no protective miracles means that casualties are inevitable. When injuries ur at the end of a Battle, it��s time for the medical Sorcerers to step in. During the Intercollegiate League season each year, it��s also a period when medical Sorcerers from various schools rapidly gain experience. They almost wish for the Battles to be fiercer, hoping everyone ends up so battered that they��re sent straight to the Treatment room��such scenarios are like experience bonanzas for them.


    ��Wait����


    Skoll, with the help of medical Sorcerers, struggled to sit up and raised his hand to stop Leoni: ��The ��Silent Rhythm,�� the famous miracle of the ��Rhythm Sword Saint,�� I remember it��s an upper-tier radiant gold miracle!��


    ��Are you already a�� Two Wings Sorcerer?��


    The miracle that had just silenced the entire arena was indeed Nidhogg Professor��s most daunting and nauseating move��Silent Rhythm.


    The second shortsword wasn��t for dual-wielding but served as a musical instrument. Leoni had been moving at high speed while scraping her longsword against the shortsword continuously, using the miracle to absorb all the resultant noise and then releasing it in one go, causing a widespread sonic st that temporarily deafened everyone, friend and foe alike!


    As Leoni��s opponent, Skoll naturally received the brunt of the sonic impact, and his hearing was nearly destroyed instantly, leaving him only able to hear his own heartbeat.


    Not only that, the intense vibration severely affected Skoll��s vision. Although the One-Arm Domain allowed him to counterattack swiftly, he could only see afterimages left by Leoni; his dynamic vision failed to capture the Orange Dancer at his side!


    If ��Melody Rhythm�� is Nidhogg��s standard attack, then ��Silent Rhythm�� is his killer move. The wide-range sonic impact, deafness, and blindness make Nidhogg one of the rare Swordcerers who dares to face multiple attackers, allowing him to stand out among Two Wings Sorcerers and soar to new heights!


    But the main spirits of ��Silent Rhythm�� are mostly at the Two Wings level, with no One Wing substitutes, so the minimum threshold to cast it is being a Two Wings Sorcerer!


    The Audience was stunned, only the two supervising Professors showed no surprise.


    Leoni nced at Skoll and nodded, ��A Silver Sorcerer, I haven��t been one for a few days now.��

 Chapter 263: Enchantress, Take Your Path

    Chapter 263: Enchantress, Take Your Path


    ��Leoni Senior Sister is already a Two Wings Sorcerer?��


    ��She stepped onto the Time Continent before graduation?!��


    ��She truly is our Orange Dancer!��


    In contrast to the jubtion at Swordflower College, the mood at Orbit College was sour. Skoll��s loss was one thing��it was just a Friendly Match, after all. But the real issue was Leoni��s recent promotion to Two Wings Sorcerer. This meant her power would grow rapidly in the uing days. By the time the Intercollegiate League started, the Orange Dancer might be an insurmountable barrier for Orbit College.


    After the Spiral Cherry Saint and Hidden Hand Sword Saint finished theirments, the joy among the Swordflower team members faded somewhat, and they couldn��t help but look towards Sonya.


    Now that Leoni had won, the score was 2:2, turning the Chief Battle into the deciding point. All the pressure was now on Sonya.


    Indeed, the news of Leoni��s promotion to Two Wings Sorcerer was more significant than the friendly match itself. However, if Sonya were to lose next, all the jealousy, dissatisfaction, and malice harbored in the school towards her would erupt unabated.


    The Red-haired Swordswoman was simply too much of a genius��Leoni had spent two years building her reputation, whereas Sonya had done so in just one month. Many were eager to see her fall hard. Thest piece of news about Sonya��s death in the Virtual Realm was far from satisfying those with malicious intent, who hid behind the Curtain, hoping for a resounding defeat to prove that so-called geniuses were just as mediocre as they were.


    Even among thepetitors, many harbored such feelings.Or should it be said, they were the ones most entitled to jealousy��why should a mere freshman, just arrived, be the chiefpetitor of the team?


    Simply because she was a disciple of Professor Trozan, had tied with the Orange Dancer, and had deployed the Silver Full-Wing within a month?


    But if I could be a disciple of Professor Trozan, perhaps I could aplish these feats too!


    What Red-haired Swordswoman, she��s just a rustic girl lucky enough to be favored by the professor and given disproportionate resources!


    ��Sonya.��


    Leoni strolled over leisurely, dressed in a ck leather vest that was cinched below her chest with a strap that entuated her curves. Her arms were adorned with long rune gauntlets, and she paired it with tight shorts and ck thigh-high stockings, giving her a look that was both light and wild. As a Battle Garment, her outfit wasn��t particrly dazzling, but it unexpectedly matched her personality.


    ��Senior Sister, congrattions.��


    ��It��s your turn next.�� Leoni plopped down beside her and pped her on the shoulder. ��Go and disappoint those who look down on you.��


    Sonya clearly understood what her Senior Sister meant.


    She had already sensed the veiled malice from her teammates, or rather, as she walked out of the dormitory in her Battle Garment to meet Professor Trozan at the school gate, the undisguised malice felt like a group of Carrion Crows, much more nauseating than manure from a farm. It was hard for the rustic girl not to notice.


    So many people were waiting to see her fall t on her face.


    Sonya had grown ustomed to such gazes. Even back in her vige, when she was studying and preparing for exams, the vigers�� stares were just as piercing, their eyes as small as rats and their malice as red.


    It seemed the rats in the city were not so different from those in the vige.


    ��Sonya.��


    Professor Trozan called her casually.


    Sonya nced at her professor and suddenly asked, ��What time is it now?��


    ��12:19,�� Trozan looked up at the sky. ��The Starlight is just right.��


    ��It��s a good day,�� Sonya stood up. ��I��ll be back soon.��


    ��When ites to disappointing people, I never disappoint.��


    ��Next up is the highly anticipated Chief Battle between the schools!�� the announcer dered in an excited voice. ��Chief of Orbit, Tida Yarzhent, versus Swordflower��s Chief, Sonya Therave!��


    Sonya lightly tapped her foot and leaped onto the stage, her hand resting on the hilt of her wooden sword.


    Although the school had provided her with a real sword, she was still ustomed to using a wooden sword in reality��after all, the wooden sword given by the Observer was as sharp as any real sword.


    Quietly, ��Sharpening for a Decade�� had already been activated.


    At the same time, her opponent also took the stage. Unlike her, the Chief of Orbit walked up the stairs in a very ordinary manner, even stumbling slightly, nearly falling.


    She was a petite girl, standing at about five feet, dressed in a Battle Garment reminiscent of a princess��s attire for children. She had to tilt her head back just to make eye contact with Sonya. With big eyes, pink curly hair, a bow tied on her head, and holding a teddy bear, she presented a strange mix of being too old to be a little girl and too young to be a teenager, existing in a peculiar state of ovep.


    ��Sonya, you look so pretty!�� Tida chirped crisply.


    ��No, I should be younger than you, Tida,�� Sonya smiled. ��I��m just a freshman, but you seem to be�� a junior?��


    Tida paused, then shed a smile: ��Nope, Tida is forever fourteen, so everyone here is my big brother or big sister~��


    ��But you��re actually twenty-one this year, right?��


    Tida��s smile slowly faded, and a swell of malice erupted like a volcano, the bizarre aura causing Sonya��s hair to flutter.


    ��Has anyone ever told you that discussing a girl��s age is very impolite?��


    The teddy bear in her arms emitted a sizzling arc of Miracle, and with a surge of air, a five-meter-tall ck bear stood erect on the ground, with Tida sitting on its shoulder.


    ��It��s not toote to apologize to your little sister now, Big Sister Sonya,�� Tidaughed.


    This was the newly appointed Chief of Orbit, Tida Yarzhent!


    An Alchemist who rose to fame inst year��s Intercollegiate League, acimed as an ��Alchemy Prodigy��. Her forte is the alchemically crafted giant bear, normally carried in the form of a teddy bear but capable of transforming into a terrifying monster with high resistance in battle!


    It was said that Truth College had once invited her to join. Although there were many practitioners of the same strength as Tida, she was the only one in her age group with such capabilities within the Alchemy Faction!


    ��No need, Tida. I��m still in my rebellious phase.��


    Sonya gripped the sword hilt and drew her weapon in a Iaido stance, showing no signs of stage fright but rather an elevated fighting spirit, her pale red eyes glowing with fervent arcs!


    The atmosphere was electric, the tension palpable. Sensing the mood, the host wisely skipped the countdown and handed the stage over to the two Chiefspletely.


    Just as the battle was about to erupt, Sonya suddenly heard the sound of pages turning.


    Time seemed to freeze at that moment. When Sonya blinked, she found herself transported to apletely different world.


    She was no longer on the stage of sh Track Auditorium; instead, she stood on a bizarre in. In the distance, the sky flowed with Magma, while the meadows close by bloomed with stunningly beautiful clusters of purple flowers. A faint mist filled the air, creating an ethereal atmosphere.


    This environment seemed vaguely familiar to her��


    ��Why aren��t you moving? You��re not scared, are you?��


    Sonya turned her head and saw a figure of captivating beauty.


    She wore high heels, white stockings, and an off-the-shoulder dress that clung perfectly to her curves, creating an irresistible allure. Her makeup was so exquisitely applied that Sonya felt utterly inferior inparison.


    Despite her sweet and innocent appearance, every inch of her skin, every movement, and every nce seemed designed to seduce and tempt into wrongdoing.


    However, the most peculiar aspect was the fluffy white fur that encircled her forearms, much like protective sleeves.


    As Sonya observed this enchanting stranger, she found herself speaking��


    Her voice was high-pitched and chilling, sending shivers down the spine.


    ��Enchantress, lead the way.��

 Chapter 264: Farewell

    Chapter 264: Farewell


    Enchantress?


    Is her name Enchantress�� Sonya thought to herself as she moved spontaneously, following the white-haired girl swiftly through the meadow.


    Though suddenly pulled into this bizarre ce, the rustic girl quickly regained herposure, knowing all too well that this must be the Observer��s doing.


    She had told the Observer time and again to inform her before creating any trouble, yet the Observer, just like Sonya, never failed to disappoint when it came to letting people down.


    Thus, the Red-haired Swordswoman remained calm; after all, the Observer wouldn��t harm her, and this Adventure was sure to bring some benefits.


    But the problem was that she was about to engage in the Chief Battle with Tida, and now being pulled here, would her real self be immobilized?


    If she stopped moving, Professor Trozan would surely interrupt the match to protect her, but it��s very likely that he would simply dere her defeated��there was no way the match could just continue the music and dance, waiting for her to wake up. Professor Trozan simply wasn��t that shameless.


    After all, a student��s malfunction was their own issue, amon urrence for Sorcerers. For instance, dying in the Virtual Realm greatly affects one��s real condition.


    Could a Sorcerer, who frivolously died in the Virtual Realm, use poor condition as an excuse to dy a match? Impossible, everyone would think, ��Why did you die when others didn��t? There must be something wrong with you.��Condition management is a crucial aspect for a Sorcerer. Venturing into the Exploration in Virtual Realm before a major event is like takingxatives before a long bus ride��you bear the consequences.


    But it was Sonya��s first time representing her school inbat, and it was the Chief Battle no less. Just before the battle, to be fraught with such issues, she could already imagine the unpleasantments that would flood the School Forum upon her return.


    Oh Observer, why did you have to create trouble at this time? You must have known about the important match I was to attend tonight��


    Just then, a pang of worry hit Sonya.


    If she were to lose by default in the Chief Battle, the school would surely be disappointed in her, and it might even affect this year��s performance in the Intercollegiate League. If she couldn��t participate in the league, then her evenings would be free to continue the Exploration in Virtual Realm��


    It only takes a little bit of soil for the seeds of suspicion to sprout uncontrobly.


    Don��t me the rustic girl for having such dark thoughts. If her mind hadn��t been filled with this foul rot, she would have been devoured by the city of Gales long ago��thebel of a poor but beautiful college student might elicit kindness from the good-hearted, but it also invites malice from the wicked.


    When faced with loss, the first reaction shouldn��t be ��it wasn��t intentional�� but ��it was targeted at me��. Holding this mindset is why Sonya hasn��t lost anything in her first year of college, securing every Schrship and financial aid, edging out allpetitors.


    Because that��s all she has left, and losing any more would mean selling herself.


    Over the past month, Sonya was almost ready to abandon this rotten way of thinking��she hated her constantly scheming self.


    After all, how can someone full of negativity be happy?


    Who wants to see everyone around them as viins? Who doesn��t want to be surrounded by Angels who like them?


    The arrival of the Observerpletely transformed Sonya��s social life. She not only made better friends but also gained the means to interact with high-quality friends��this was most important. A big reason why Sonya can now rx around people like Lois and Leoni is that she isn��t worried about being at a loss or being exploited by friends.


    She can afford the cost of being betrayed by a friend.


    Because she can afford to lose, she isn��t afraid to have.


    But she can��t afford the cost of being betrayed by the Observer.


    If, if it really was the Observer trying to control her life��


    ��Ah, we��ve encountered it so soon���� Enchantress suddenly said with a softugh.


    Sonya saw a shallow pond suddenly appear in the meadow, and on it, an Orc wielding two axes. He hadrge ears and was d in fine steel armor, sitting cross-legged on the pond, seemingly pondering something.


    ��Shall we attack?�� Sonya heard ��herself�� suggesting sinctly.


    ��There��s no need for that. This is the Tokoyo-no-Kuni of the Shadow Evil Dragon, where all monsters are minions of the Shadow Evil Dragon. If we make a move, it would be like knocking on the door to tell the master of the house that Invaders have arrived.��


    Enchantress nced at Sonya, ��If you��re eager to fight your way in, I don��t mind, as long as you don��t hinder me frompleting the master��s task.��


    ��Otherwise, just follow my lead obediently.�� With a wave of her hand, both of their figures faded to transparency. Coupled with the light mist in the area, they became almostpletely invisible. ��I warn you, don��t hold me back, Sword Demon.��


    ��Hmph.�� Sonya heard ��herself�� scoff disdainfully, seemingly uninterested in arguing with Enchantress.


    At that moment, Sonya finally remembered where they were��Tokoyo-no-Kuni, the Tokoyo Abyss!


    The Abyss is not a single type but consists of various derivative Areas, such as the Aqueduct Abyss appearing in river areas, the Cavern Abyss in urban undergrounds, and even dungeon abysses that mimic surface architecture styles. Moreover, eachyer of the Abyss has a different environment; for instance, the firstyer might be the Aqueduct Abyss, and the second could turn into a mud abyss, with corresponding changes in the monsters that appear.


    The Tokoyo Abyss, known as ��the abyss closest to hell��, only appears in the deeperyers of the Abyss. Sonya knew of this ce because the Tokoyo Abyss often appears in film and television productions.


    Being the closest to hell, Tokoyo is regarded as the necessary path for the dead to resurrect from hell, and it is primarily inhabited by undead monsters, fitting people��s impressions of hell.


    Currently, the knowledge of Tokoyo in the Stars Kingdom originates from the records of legendary Sorcerers, as only legendary Sorcerers have the capacity to delve into the deeperyers of the Abyss and step into Tokoyo-no-Kuni. As for more, Sonya wouldn��t know; after all, she had no ns to explore the Abyss, and her entire understanding of Tokoyo came from Drose starring in the Shadow Drama ��Alice in Tokoyo-no-Kuni�� and ��I Don��t Believe Every Heart Will Be Betrayed.��


    Since ��I�� and Enchantress can explore Tokoyo-no-Kuni, it at least shows that we��ve already broken through severalyers of the Abyss�� Does this mean that ��I�� and Enchantress are both legendary Sorcerers?


    But, is ��my�� name Sword Demon? Doesn��t sound like a very nice person��


    Sonya quickly gathered the current intelligence as she followed Enchantress through several monster defense zones. The monsters sat solitary on pools of water, standing like tombstones. They looked like Sorcerers from various races, except for their eyes, mouths, and ears, which were overgrown with blooming purple flowers, giving them a deceivingly normal appearance.


    Suddenly, their view shifted. One second they were in an expansive meadow, and the next they saw a magnificent pce in the distance. Enchantress��s voice contained a hint of joy, ��This is the ce!��


    Sonya immediately realized she must have been pulled into a memory��the transition clearly cut out the mundane part of their journey.


    Only a memory could be ��edited�� like this.


    Why would the Observer want me to see this memory?�� Sonya followed Enchantress into the pce, but the next second, she almost turned to flee.


    ��Lucky us,�� Enchantress whispered with a lightugh. ��The Shadow Evil Dragon is asleep.��


    The vast pce seemed designed primarily to amodate a huge ck dragon. Its scales shimmered like onyx, and its wings were iid with purple orbs, curled up on a soft cushion, yet even in sleep, its appearance was fierce.


    The pce was filled with purple flowers, some even growing on the dragon itself, which did not add a sense of natural harmony but rather made the scene even more sinister, as if the dragon and the flowers were consuming each other.


    Logically, Sonya had in dragons before��stacks of ying Fish-Dragon heads could form a small hill, so she shouldn��t be afraid of seeing another dragon.


    But the problem was, this dragon was simply too massive.


    A rough estimate suggested that if the dragon stood up, it would be dozens of meters tall. Just its ws couldpletely cover Sonya, and the sound of its heart beating inside its chest echoed like thunder throughout the pce.


    Sonya had never seen such a colossal creature before, severely triggering her fear ofrge objects. When the size difference reaches a certain extent, all Magic bes trivial tricks. The dragon would only need to step over to crush Sonya, the insect.


    A Swordsmanship-practicing insect, no different from any other insect.


    Is this the Shadow Evil Dragon? Can it be ssified as a Knowledge Creature? Does it belong to the Perfect Form or an ultimate form?


    However, Sonya found herself gripping the hilt of her sword, seemingly eager to disturb the Shadow Evil Dragon��s deep sleep. It was Enchantress who stopped her, saying, ��I told you, we��re not here to fight. You��re just my backup n if I fail�� Watch me.��


    The sweet-looking girl hopped and skipped up to the Shadow Evil Dragon, even jumping onto its snout and walking up to its head. Sonya, watching from the side, felt her heart pounding��she now somewhat understood how a mouse feels when trying to bell a cat.


    Yet, the Shadow Evil Dragon showed no reaction to Enchantress��s actions, sleeping even more soundly. Sonya could now see that Enchantress seemed to be constantly performing a Miracle, keeping the dragon��s guard at its lowest,pletely oblivious to her actions.


    But as Enchantress reached the top of the dragon��s head, she suddenly plunged her hands into its forehead, prying apart��she revealed the vertical pupil of the Shadow Evil Dragon!


    The evil, dark purple,rge pupil was exposed to the air. Sonya was so nervous she was nearly numb, but the Shadow Evil Dragon still did not wake up. Its sleepy vertical pupil stared nkly into the void,pletely unaware of Enchantress.


    ��The master was right; it has indeed matured����


    Humming a tune, Enchantress poured a strange solution into the vertical pupil. Sonya had a bad feeling, but unfortunately, this was just a memory, and she couldn��t stop her��


    ��Hey!��


    With a sharp cry, Enchantress dug out the vertical pupils of the Shadow Evil Dragon! The sound of the eyeballs and nerve fibers breaking was like the crisp pop of opening a bottle of red wine!


    ��Ow����


    The intense pain instantly woke the slumbering beast. The dragon��s roar alone created a shockwave of sound, and Sonya felt as if she had been hit by a Wind Magic Miracle. Not to mention the roar sounded like thunder shattering Tokoyo, filling her ears with Echoes!


    Enchantress gracefully jumped down from the Shadow Evil Dragon, first cing the purple orbs into a transparent container to keep them alive, then storing them in her spatial equipment, ��Okay, my task is done. Now it��s your turn.��


    ��What do you mean?��


    ��What I mean is��goodbye, loser.��

 Chapter 265: The Honor of Battle, All Eyes on Her!

    Chapter 265: The Honor of Battle, All Eyes on Her!


    ng!


    A swift sword strike��Sonya barely had time to react, but ��she�� had already shed at the Enchantress.


    However, ��she�� struck only an illusion; the Enchantress had already escaped to the outside of the pce, her form quickly fading to transparency.


    She looked at Sonya, her pretty, cute face filled with spiteful mockery: ��Why are you so upset? Isn��t this the Battle segment you��ve been longing for? Come on, the opponent I��ve specially prepared for you is right behind you. If a raging Shadow Evil Dragon can��t satisfy your appetite, you wretched woman, then perhaps the spirits from the Tokoyo Abyss, gathered by its fury, will.��


    ��Is this your idea, or your master��s?��


    ��You can ask me that question once you climb out of the Tokoyo Abyss.��


    As she spoke, the Enchantresspletely dissolved into the air and vanished. But now, ��she�� had no time to pursue this malicious woman, as the pupil-less Shadow Evil Dragon was already eager to unleash its fury.


    ��Hmph.��


    Sonya looked at the Shadow Evil Dragon, which seemed like the incarnation of doomsday, and heard ��herself��ugh bitterly in extreme anger: ��So, some efforts just can��t be spared after all.����Isn��t it just ying through the Tokoyo Abyss? What��s so difficult about that?��


    ��Enchantress, I will remember this grudge!��


    The Shadow Evil Dragon roared, its ws emitting dark Thunder, as boundless chaotic darkness surged forward!


    ��Reptile.�� Sonya tightened her grip on her sword hilt: ��I��ve just created a new Miracle, and it needs testing.��


    ��By your death, I shall prove my skill.��


    ��You should feel honored.��


    The next second, the Shadow Evil Dragon was sliced into countless pieces.


    ��Sonya, if you win, drinks are on me!��


    Suddenly, Sonya snapped back to reality and found herself back at the sh Track Auditorium.


    Leoni was loudly cheering her on, and Tida still sat on the shoulder of the alchemical giant bear, as if the recent adventure had been merely an illusion.


    But the Red-haired Swordswoman knew, it was not an illusion, but an incredibly precious experience.


    Sonya breathed a sigh of relief��it turned out that the shback had onlysted a moment and would not affect the reality of the Chief Battle, meaning the Observer had no intention of harming her.


    Even though she had wronged the Observer, the rustic girl felt no guilt, as it was his fault for not rifying the situation beforehand.


    ��Were you distracted just now?�� Tida raised an eyebrow. ��Were you nning to surrender?��


    ��That��s my line,�� Sonya retorted. ��If you surrender now, you won��t lose too badlyter.��


    ��You��re really stubborn, big sister,�� Tida scoffed, and suddenly bit her own small hand fiercely, allowing the giant bear to lick her blood. Tasting the Bloody Scent, the bear roared, its eyes turning blood-red and its body swelling evenrger as it lunged at Sonya!


    Miracle Bloodthirsty Berserk!


    Sonya watched the alchemical giant bear, which seemed capable of swallowing her whole, but her mind was still on the scene just moments before.


    Facing the Shadow Evil Dragon, whose size dwarfed her own by hundreds, if not thousands of times, the Sword Demon had in it with a single move.


    Sonya couldn��t forget that magnificent sword strike; she even wanted to replicate it.


    She had experienced the entire process of that Miracle while inside the Sword Demon, and coincidentally, she almost had all the necessary down-tier spirits for that Miracle��perhaps it was no coincidence, considering the Observer had arranged those memories.


    But only almost; she was missing a key spirit, and without a down-tier substitute, she couldn��t activate the Miracle.


    Yet, for some reason, Sonya had a strong premonition that she could summon that key spirit directly!


    Although she had never studied or practiced rted techniques before, and her understanding of that spirit was limited to its name, she felt confident she could do it! This sudden confidence was like a student who knew the exam answers in advance!


    Looking up at the alchemical giant bear charging towards her, Sonya chose to trust the Observer��s judgment.


    And to trust her own abilities!


    ng!


    The Red-haired Swordswoman��s eyes sparked with fiercebat spirit as she silently drew her sword!


    Vibration Sword!


    Moon Silk!


    Rapids!


    And��


    Professor Trozan from Orbit College was momentarily stunned as she watched a spirit rapidly take shape on Sonya��s shoulder. Her own arcane energy was unexpectedly pulled along, causing it to surge and boil! The other students also sensed something amiss. Although they were not as sensitive to arcane energy as Professor Trozan, they too could feel Sonya��s influence on them!


    This formation pattern, this broad knowledge resonance�� it was the summoning of a spirit!


    Was she actually summoning a spirit in the middle of a Battle!?


    But soon, Professor Trozan felt apologetic for her own imagination��Sonya was not just summoning a new spirit, she was also immediately integrating this new spirit into a Miracle!


    As the Two Wings fully unfolded, the new spirit ��Sword Shadow�� waspletely born from Sonya��s knowledge!


    ��Sword Shadow�� appeared as a stern, aloof woman in ck, quietly standing by Sonya, turning even shadows into Sonya��s lethal swords!


    In the next second, countless threads sliced through the body of the alchemical giant bear, each thread as sharp as a de, instantly cutting the bear into neen pieces!


    The charging bear exploded into countless Blood Flowers, turning into fragments scattered on the ground!


    Miracle�� Blood Flower Water Moon!


    Tida was shocked by the sudden sh, and as the bear fell apart, she was thrown off the stage, tumbling twice before hurriedly getting back up. She nced at her blood-stained clothes and, facing Sonya��s chilling gaze, instinctively took a step back.


    However, this step back filled Tida with a mix of shame and rage; her face turned beet red, and Sonya thought she was about to leap up and attack her. Instead, Tida turned and walked off the stage, leaving behind only one sentence:


    ��See you at the league!��


    Tida��s main reliance had been the alchemical giant bear, and now that it was destroyed beyond repair, staying on stage would only bring her further humiliation.


    But as a Genius Alchemist of Orbit College, she vowed that the next time they met on the league stage, she would show Sonya, that old hag, what a war machine truly is!


    ��What just happened?��


    ��Did Sonya defeat the Chief of Orbit in one move?��


    ��No, you��re all missing the point, didn��t you see Sonya summoning the Two Wings spirit during the Battle? That��s a Two Wings spirit, the Two Wings!��


    ��Can someone remind me when Miss Therave became a Sorcerer?��


    ��Less than a month ago, to be exact, it was April 12th. You��re wee,�� Leoni said with a smile.


    ��Raising her Swordsmanship Faction to Gold Tier in one month? From an Apprentice Sorcerer to a Two Wings Sorcerer in one month?��


    ��Professor Trozan, do you still ept students? What do you think of me?��


    ��I��m not taking any more students,�� Professor Trozan said. ��Sonya will be myst student��because I��ve thought about nipping her in the bud already.��


    It was only then that Sonya had time to observe her new spirit.


    Seeing the Two Wings of ��Sword Shadow��, she was stunned for a moment, then her face turned red as if she was about to burst intoughter at any second.


    She had summoned a Two Wings spirit on her own!


    This meant that her Swordsmanship Faction had been elevated to Gold Tier, officially making her a Two Wings Sorcerer in societal terms!


    She could finally unt her status as a Two Wings Sorcerer openly!


    Ha, those jealous folks on the Curtain are probably going to spend the night biting their handkerchiefs, unable to sleep!


    And she is just a freshman now. Swordflower College would have to push her forward, throwing money, fame, and status her way. The promotional strategies would have to focus on her!


    Even if Sonya wanted to star in a popr Shadow Drama, Swordflower College would likely clear the path and do their best to meet her demands! Let alone releasing a music album!


    Defeating the Chief of Orbit in one move, stepping onto the Time Continent within a month!


    When the Radiant Star rises tomorrow, the entire Gales will whisper my name!


    Bathed in glory, the center of attention!


    ��The results are clear!�� the host announced loudly. ��The winner, the Chief of Swordflower, Sonya Therave!��

 Chapter 266: Duped by the Library

    Chapter 266: Duped by the Library


    In the Gospel Kingdom, Annan��s home.


    ��Ah, ah, ah, ah����


    Early in the morning, Deya was rolling on the bed, taking out her frustration on Lise��s newly purchased bunny plush toy by punching it. She identally used a bit of the real kung fu from the Fist and w Faction, and her punches burst the bunny��s head open.


    ��Why�� Why am I so stupid����


    ��Lise, wait, let me vent a bit more, or I��m going to explode!��


    ��I��m such an idiot, waaa!��


    Deya was now so full of regret that she wished someone would spank her, for she had missed an Adventure in the Virtual Realm��she had been tricked by the Legendary Library!


    After separating from the Observer, she made her way to the third floor of the library. The sights on the third floor were even more spectacr and bizarre than those on the second; there were no bookshelves anymore, each book had its own disy stand. The space on this level was much, much bigger than the second, making Deya feel as though she had entered a tomb of gods, where countless Rules were born and extinguished.


    The ancient book in front of her emitted fierce mes, as if it could burn the space around it, turning the surroundings into a charred wastnd; that scroll emitted a chilling cold, freezing time itself, turning its nearby area into a frosty Static Domain.Beyond that, there were necromantic wastnds, sword spirit tombs, stormy seas, an alchemy Sanctuary of all things, and even what seemed to be Prophecy bubbles that could peer into the future, capturing threads of one��s own Destiny��


    But the problem was, this was the Legendary Library on the Time Continent!


    The Sorcerers who could make it here were only of the Two Wings rank, so the memories they left behind were merely adventure stories of Two Wings Sorcerers. How could the power contained within surpass the legendary?


    It was all fake, a trick to make me read!


    Although the books were fake, the storms of Rules disyed were not, so Deya carefully navigated through the domains of various books, struggling towards the stairs leading to the fourth floor.


    Along the way, Deya��s gaze was captured by a book. It was a fairy tale picture book; on the cover, a brave knight was protecting a beautiful Princess. The floor around the picture book was covered in fresh grass, scattered with flowers, butterflies, and bathed in sunlight.


    In the chaotic third floor of the dance of gods and demons, the picture book area was as tranquil as a promisednd. Deya really wanted to just go there, lie on the grass, open a picture book, and enjoy the quiet reading time.


    But a strong sense of greed turned her head.


    Yes, everything here was very good.


    But there must be better on the fourth floor!


    With even greater anticipation, Deya resisted all temptations and walked nearly a kilometer on the third floor, finally arriving at the stairs leading to the fourth floor!


    Unlike the first three floors, the entrance to the fourth floor was filled with radiance, clearly indicating that more powerful books were hidden inside!


    With great effort, the Witch climbed the stairs, joyfully stepping onto the fourth floor, and then��


    She arrived at the rooftop.


    Deya stared nkly at the sky formed by the Reverse Golden Rain, still noting to her senses.


    Where was the fourth floor?


    How did I juste out here?


    With thest bit of hope, she looked around, but reality shattered her illusions: there was nothing on the rooftop, no books, no scrolls, no crystal balls, no data storage devices.


    At this moment, the Witch realized something and turned around to try to return to the stairs leading to the third floor. However, after running down more than a dozen steps, she felt that the distance to the third floor had not shortened at all; the stairs seemed endless.


    She looked down and realized she was still on the rooftop, not having descended the stairs at all.


    The tips from the *Guide to the Legendary Library* buzzed around in Deya��s mind like annoying flies:


    ����The path you walk must not be retraced. There are no do-overs in life.��


    ����The library has four floors, each higher level contains books of better quality than the one below. Always aim higher.��


    ����Books may deceive you. It��s better to be skeptical than to believe everything.��


    At this moment, not just the White Queen and the ck Butler, but Deya herself understood.


    The key was the fourth tip!


    Books indeed could deceive them. Deya initially thought it meant that books would present a facade of thunderous might to lure them into reading, but in fact, this statement had been effective from the beginning��the *Guide to the Legendary Library* itself was deceiving them!


    ��There are four floors in the library, and the books on each upper floor are better than those below�� �C this rule was false!


    There was no fourth floor, and the books of the fourth floor were not better than those on the third!


    If a sorcerer rushes straight for the topmost fourth floor, they end up missing out on the adventures that the first three floors offer. Moreover, because of the rule ��The path you��ve taken is not to be retraced,�� the sorcerer has no chance to regret their decision; they must simply endure the bitter consequences.


    It would have been slightly less embarrassing for Deya if she had discovered the Legendary Library alone. But she wasn��t alone��she hade with the Observer!


    When they met at the entrance and the Observer cheerfully asked her what she had found upstairs, Deya almost overflowed with regret. She was so embarrassed she could have curled her toes into a three-bedroom apartment!


    Understandably, the atmosphere turned even heavier after Deya revealed the deceptive strategy of the library. Although the Observer was very considerate of Deya��s feelings and avoided mentioning the issue, he suddenlyughed during the subsequent Exploration in Virtual Realm, whichpletely broke Deya��sposure.


    Cursed Legendary Library!


    Cursed Observer!


    Why is everyone picking on me!


    No, I have to vent by beating Ashe in a game, or I won��t calm down!


    Deya brushed her teeth furiously, washed her face furiously, peed furiously, changed clothes furiously, and then went out to find Ashe, saying fiercely, ��Ashe, I��m in a bad mood today����


    ��Then stay away from me,�� Ashe pushed Deya away. ��I��m in a good mood today, don��t bring me down.��


    ��I want to challenge you to a duel in Sorcerer Karting!��


    ��Wait, you mean you��re in a bad mood and you want to relieve stress by ying Sorcerer Karting?��


    ��Exactly!��


    ��Alright then, I��ll try to fulfill your wish.��


    When Igor and Miss Annan stepped out of the Hovercar, they saw Banjeet repairing a controller.


    Aside from the Frost Faction, the sixty-year-old Butler Youth was also skilled in the Alchemy Faction. He could repair mostmon items using a slime-like universal material.


    ��Good morning, Miss Annan, Mr. Bukin.��


    ��What happened to it?�� Annan asked curiously.


    The Butler Youth didn��t respond, ncing instead at Lise who was eating spaghetti. Lise raised her hand: ��I identally broke the controller while ying a game.��


    Annan gave a sigh and nced at the cracked Holographic Screen next to him, ��So this is����


    ��I was ying a game and identally threw the controller at the Holographic Screen,�� Lise exined with a shrug and a sigh.


    She felt helpless, but it was Deya who had caused the trouble. Reluctant as she might be, as the younger sister, she had no choice but to clean up after her.


    Igor nodded thoughtfully, picked up a dinner knife from the table, handed it to Lise, and then turned her around to face Ashe, who was eating a custard L Fatty.


    ��Lise, it��s not that I don��t trust you, but everyone is curious about how you were so careless. Please demonstrate with Ashe as your target����


    ��Lise, tilt your head back.��


    Before Igor could react, Lise��s head forcefully bumped into his chin. Ashe reached out to take the dinner knife from Lise��s hand and snorted, ��Don��t let children y with knives, Igor. This is the punishment you get for not taking care of children!��


    ��But why am I being punished too!�� Lise rubbed her head and pouted, ��Aunt Bukin��s chin is so hard����


    ��There, there, it won��t hurt if you blow on it,�� Ashe told her, gently blowing on Lise��s head. ��Lise, this is the price paid for your protection, but depending on the situation, you might also be the price itself����


    While Lise was being taught dark life philosophies by her father, Igor, dragging a suitcase, crossed the living room to return to his dormitory. The suitcase was the same size as the one Harvey had brought back yesterday. Ashe��s gaze followed the suitcase, then shifted to Harvey.


    The Necromancer twitched his nose and shook his head, ��That��s not a gift for me; itcks the pleasant scent.��


    ��Maybe it��s not dead yet?��


    ��Impossible, the stench of a living person is more distinct, I would definitely notice.��


    ��Now I��m starting to wonder what kind of hellish Map this world looks like through your sense of smell����

 Chapter 267: Deception

    Chapter 267: Deception


    When Igor finally joined for breakfast, he winked at Ashe, who understood telepathically. After breakfast was over, Ashe made his way to Igor��s room, where the Con Artist was already waiting for him.


    Ashe made himselffortable, sitting on the bed without any hesitation: ��What mission were you and Annan onst night?��


    ��It��s a long story,�� Igor said, settling into an armchair. He picked up a bottle and poured a bit of sky-blue liquor into his ss.


    Ashe then noticed the presence of a liquor cab in Igor��s room. In these external pleasures, Annan was very generous to them. Typically, all it took was a word to Banjeet, and the Butler would order takeout to bring whatever they wanted.


    There was also another possibility��Gospel was a highly developed kingdom, where food ingredients like meat, eggs, milk, and alcohol were almost basic social welfaremodities. No amount of consumption by Ashe and hispanions was considered wasteful; in fact, it even promoted the internal cirction of the Gospel Kingdom.


    The most fundamental manifestation of any developed society is food. In Blood Moon Kingdom, even the lowest ogres could eat their fill of meat every day; Gospel Kingdom had no reason not to achieve this. If themoners here used red wine as mouthwash, steak as a staple, and milk for baths, with the entire poption��s BMI well over 30, Ashe wouldn��t be surprised at all.


    ��Where��s mine?�� Ashe asked.


    After a moment��s thought, Igor fetched another ss and poured water for Ashe from a pitcher.


    ��Better than nothing.��Ashe rolled his eyes at him, took the ss, and drank it in one gulp. Then Igor said, ��The personst night drank the poison I prepared just like that.��


    Pfft!


    Ashe spat out the water in surprise, but Igor, prepared for this, waved his hand lightly and a breeze instantly blew in the room, sending the water Ashe had spat out right back at him.


    ��Last night, Annan took me to an aerial estate in the Double-tiered City,�� Igor said, gazing out at the Inverted City. ��You might think Annan��s home is already quite nice, but if you saw that estate, you��d think this ce is for the poor.��


    ��The ceiling is made of heat-resistant ss, allowing for brilliant sunlight during the day and a view of the stars at night. The courtyard boasts a garden that blooms all year round, and the estate owner seems to have a keen interest in alchemical creatures, even setting up a small zoo filled with chimera alchemical beasts.��


    ��Every exposed surface in the estate, like the walls and floors, uses the most expensive Miracle materials, powered by sr energy for everyday use, constantly maintaining a ��clean�� Miracle. There is no dust inside, and all areas are sterile. The only two servants are nearly lifelike alchemical maids��one with long, straight ck hair, tall and sultry, and the other a petite, pink-haired loli. If it weren��t for the Mind Spirit��s ineffectiveness on them, I would never have realized they were alchemical creations.��


    ��But in that grand, luxurious estate lives just one person��his name is Count Russell. Although the noble system in the Gospel Kingdom has declined, there are still remnants of the old era, or rather, the new era��s Wealthy who wish to be remnants of the old.��


    ��He looks very young, with tender white skin and dressed in a silk robe. But his weary tone and the undisguised loathsome look he gave Annan when speaking are enough to prove he should have been buried long ago, only his power has preserved his quality of life.��


    ��Interestingly, he seemed even more interested in me,�� Igor shrugged. ��Perhaps that��s why Miss Annan brought me along��let��s skip the details. All you need to know is that we put the estate owner to sleep.��


    ��Asleep?��


    ��Yes, asleep,�� Igor twirled his ring. ��Given his physical condition and the life-support setup we arranged, he��ll probably sleep for about five months��then he��ll turn into Harvey��s favorite breeding ground for maggots. As an important figure, his corpse will definitely attract the Red Cap after five months. But since even Annan doesn��t care, I naturally don��t either, especially since our Contract will be over by then.��


    ��As a reward for assisting with the sleep, Annan and I cut off his hands and gouged out his eyes. This allowed us to bypass the estate��s fingerprint and iris verification and ess the inner sanctum. Naturally, there was a spree of zero-cost acquisitions, though most of the items, including Contract documents and bank credentials, were taken by Annan since I couldn��t easily liquidate them.��


    ��The only thing I managed to obtain was this.��


    Igor walked over to his returned luggage and pulled out a ck velvet box, handing it to Ashe.


    Ashe opened the box to find a light red gradient mask that felt almost as smooth as silk yet was very durable. It fitfortably on his head, breathable as if he wasn��t wearing anything at all, and the mask seemed to have an automatic adjustment feature. Within three seconds of putting it on, it perfectly conformed to the shape of Ashe��s nose and mouth.


    He turned to look in the mirror. Combined with the Dark Red Trench Coat Lise had given him, Ashe now possessed a mysterious and ascetic allure, the kind you��d see in a film or TV drama, portraying a viin capable of challenging conventional morals.


    Ashe was quite pleased with his appearance��his own assessment was ��so handsome it makes one wish they didn��t have to defecate.��


    ��This is said to be thest creation of a Sanctuary Alchemist. Though it appears devoid of arcane energy, wearing it can block most mind probes and significantly enhance one��s charm. It��s known as the ��Mind Mask,���� Igor said casually as he sipped some blue wine. ��If you like it, it��s yours.��


    ��Really?��


    ��As a Mind Sorcerer, I have no need for an Item to cover my face; my expressions are my weapon.�� Igor seemed genuinely indifferent. ��Actually, there wasn��t much else in that secret room that caught my eye. I only took this because I remembered you needed a mask.��


    Ashe blinked and removed the mask, saying, ��So this is a special gift you picked out for me?��


    ��If you want to think of it that way, I don��t mind,�� Igor said, swirling his ss of blue wine nonchntly.


    A gift just for me?


    A unique gift just for me?


    Watching Ashe��s expressions shift from confusion to touched, then slightly embarrassed, and back to confusion, Igor observed with a mix of amusement and indifference.


    The Cult Leader paused thoughtfully, then suddenly turned to look at the suitcase in the corner of the room.


    Igor raised an eyebrow and stood up, saying, ��Alright, it��s time for you to leave. I have other matters to attend to����


    Ashe rushed over and opened the suitcase, finding it filled with ck velvet boxes, identical to the one Igor had just given him.


    He turned to Igor, pointed at the suitcase, and asked:


    ��What are these?��


    ����What if I told you they were just to stuff under the bed? Would you believe that?��


    ��So, was the manor fake? Was Count Russell also fake?�� Ashe held the Mind Mask and continued, ��You just bought this mask randomly to give to me, but to increase its value, you made me believe it was a special gift meant only for me, crafting such a long story?��


    Igor shook his head, his face disying a ��pearls before swine�� type of disappointment: ��Gifts, gifts, the item is secondary; the gesture is what matters. Would you have been so happy just now if I hadn��t imbued this gift with so much meaning?��


    ��If a gift has no story behind it, it��s just a cold piece of handicraft. A true Mind Sorcerer is someone who imbues every ordinary object with thrilling significance.��


    ��Have you ever watched a magic show? Your behavior just now, like a child on stage smartly revealing the secret of the trick loudly, not only dampens the spirit of the performer but also robs yourself of the enjoyment of the show.��


    Igor earnestly advised, ��Fortunately, I don��t mind, but don��t do it again, Ashe. Others might think you��re insensitive to the mood.��


    ��Why does it sound like it��s my fault, when I was almost deceived by you?�� Ashe retorted irritably, ��So how many times were you nning to repeat that story?��


    ��Do I look thatzy?�� Igor remarked. ��Of course, I tailor a specific story for each client. For someone like you, Ashe, with your chaotic good nature, you��d definitely enjoy a story about the dirty deeds of high society being double-crossed. As for Harvey, that chaotic neutral Necromancer, I��m nning to weave a tale about him discovering a blood-stained torture device while eliminating a gang. And naturally, the story for Lise will be different����


    ��Igor, you really y your cards right with Green Tea,�� Ashe teased.


    ��Don��t betray me,�� Igor warned. ��I��m just trying to curry favor with them through gifts. Don��t say after you leave that the mask was from me. ��I only give gifts to you, nobody else�� is a crucial point for gaining favor.��


    ��I really couldn��t care less about getting involved in your schemes,�� Ashe responded irritably. ��And to think�� You had it all so detailed, with names and everything, I almost believed you.��


    ��Honestly, the fact that you saw through this charade makes me think I need to reflect,�� Igor contemted. ��If even you can��t be fooled, I definitely need to fine-tune the pacing of my stories�� Go on, I have to wait for the next client.��


    Ashe huffed, picked up the mask, and headed for the door. But just before leaving, he paused and said, ��That being said, I really like this mask, thanks.��


    ��Please! When you get back! Immediately record this in your journal!�� Igor called out. ��Remember to be forever grateful and repay Mr. Bukin for his great kindness.��


    Watching Ashe leave the room, Igor went over to tidy up and stash the suitcase under the bed. He then prepared a bath in the bathroom��not just out of habit. After a busy night, he felt sticky all over, and the warm bath was heavenly relief.


    After bathing and brushing his teeth, Igor inadvertently resonated with ��Revtion��, and saw foam on the mirror forming the words��


    ��Don��t let anyone know you��re pleased.��


    Igor caught his reflection in the mirror, his lips curving into a smile, and he chuckled softly to himself.

 Chapter 268: The Scarecrow and the Fire

    Chapter 268: The Scarecrow and the Fire


    Stars Kingdom, Swordflower College, evening.


    Engulite, with her sword bag slung over her shoulder, returned to the dormitory, holding up a gold-edged invitation. ��I just got back from Swordsmanship Practice, and someone asked me to deliver this invitation to Sonya.��


    Adelle came over to take a look, smirked, and casually tossed it into the trash bin. ��A mere viscount��s son daring to send invitations is like a toad lusting after a swan��s flesh�� Engulite, let me teach you something. For invitations like this, with less than three stars, just say ��I��m not very close with Sonya�� to decline. If it has a Moon Star, then you should bring it back because it means the sender is at least an earl or a direct heir.��


    ��What if it has a Radiant Star?�� Engulite, though of noble birth herself, had never learned heraldry and waspletely unfamiliar with such etiquette.


    ��That would represent an olive branch from the royal family,�� Adelle exined. ��You would need to kneel on one knee and ept the invitation with white gloves on as a sign of respect to the royalty�� Haha, just kidding. Normally, just epting it is fine, but doing that might actually earn you some favor with the royal family!��


    It was just a joke from Adelle, but seeing Engulite pondering seriously, she was somewhat surprised. ��Are you actually considering it?��


    ��Why shouldn��t I consider it? Opportunities to connect with the royal family aren��tmon, are they?�� Engulite countered.


    Scratching her face, Adelle said, ��But�� you know, Engulite, you��ve always seemed to us someone who wouldn��t bow down to power, norpromise yourself for personal gain. After all, even when Sonya offered to introduce you to Professor Trozan, you weren��t keen����


    ��I am someone who doesn��t bow to power, norpromise for personal gain,�� Engulite nodded. ��In these past few days as a Sorcerer, many nobles have tried to curry favor with me through various means, and I��ve ignored them all.����So why would you consider bowing down to the royal family?��


    ��Bowing to other nobles is selling oneself to the powerful, but serving the royal family is a contribution to society��how could they be the same?�� Engulite gave Adelle a look and set down her sword bag. ��I��m not a fool. After bing a Swordcerer, my goal was to join the Stars Kingdom��s Sorcerer system. If I have the chance to start at a higher level, why would I refuse?��


    Adelle understood��Engulite had always been principled because she had long decided that her only sovereign could be the country itself, and as the royal family rules the Stars Kingdom, she would offer her loyalty exclusively to them, never epting the overtures of other nobles.


    ��But why didn��t they directly approach Sonya?�� Engulite wondered. ��Sonya goes to the training grounds every day, isn��t she easy to find?��


    ��They don��t dare.��


    Lois rubbed her eyes and yawned as she climbed out of bed, saying, ��Nobles are the most concerned about face. If people knew that Sonya had turned down their invitation to a banquet, it would be them who lose face, not Sonya. But if they send the invitation through us, even if it��s rejected, no one would know�� Oh no, my head hurts so bad, Adelle����


    ��I��m on it.�� Quickly, Adelle prepared a cup of honey water and handed it to Lois, who gulped it down. Curious, Engulite asked, ��Lois, do you get hangovers?��


    ��Normal people get hangovers after drinking and sleeping,�� Lois muttered.


    When Sonya triumphantly returned from Orbit College in the wee hours, the entire girls�� dormitory was abuzz, staying up all night to celebrate.


    Initially, the dorm supervisor had objections, but when Professor Trozan directly paid to have several cases of wine delivered overnight from the Secret Garden, the supervisor had no choice but to reluctantly participate.


    The excitement in the girls�� dormitory was inevitable. Although Sonya had been focusing on Swordsmanship Training this past month, not participating in any girls�� activities, remember thatst semester, Sonya diligently expanded herwork. Even though she wasn��t close with everyone, she was at least acquainted.


    Therefore, as Sonya rose to prominence, the female students also quietly paid attention to this impoverished and beautiful college student. Among them, there were those who blessed her, those who were jealous, and even those who disliked her. However, regardless of their feelings, they all kept an eye on Sonya. As she continued her relentless Swordsmanship Training and achieved one dazzling victory after another, many of them gradually changed their attitudes, secretly rooting for Sonya, bing her first batch of fans.


    Most students at Swordflower Collegee from the middle ss, lower Noble families, and merchant families of Gales. Although most of them were born into luxury, their spiritual world is often very empty. The bustling Gales only filled their minds with vanity and entertainment, not instilling in them the ideals of responsibility they should have.


    Some, like Lois, knew to study hard, preparing to take over family business affairs in the future; others, like Adelle, spent four years at Swordflower College with the n to graduate, get married, have a few children, and then continue to drift through life, with their futures secured by others.


    They were like luxuriously dressed scarecrows, existing merely to fill a quota.


    Initially, Adelle and Lois, both locals, ostracized Sonya and Engulite essentially due to the conflict between scarecrows and fire��whether it was Engulite or Sonya, they both had clear aspirations and ideals, and their souls constantly radiated a me named ��struggle��, naturally causing the scarecrows to keep their distance.


    But now, the situation had changed.


    Because Sonya was no longer merely a fire; she had risen and be a rising Radiant Star.


    Scarecrows might fear the pain of mes, but they do not fear the sunlight of a Radiant Star. On the contrary, they yearn for the sunlight to enrich their souls. As long as the Radiant Star shines brighter, they feel as if their empty souls are also bing fuller and more brilliant.


    In fact, Lois was the first to be affected. In order to keep up with Sonya��s pace, she had quietly declined all invitations, stopped attending tea parties, left the Club, and even started paying attention in ss, fully dedicating herself to studying the Water Faction. Her academic achievements in this month alone were equivalent to the past half-year��time previously wasted on meaningless social activities had upied too much of her attention.


    So when they saw Sonya y the alchemical giant bear with a single stroke on the Curtain live broadcast, they were almost ready to jump up for joy in the dormitory. The honor of Swordflower students and Sonya��s achievement��these two joys ovepped, bringing them even more happiness.


    Last night��s celebration party didn��t end until dawn, and traces of yesterday��s carnival were still evident in the dormitory. The trash cans were filled with bottles and cans, and there were even scraps of fireworks tubes on the floor��it��s amazing they managed to find fireworks to celebratete at night.


    Lois, not yet a Sorcerer, was already exhausted from staying upte to watch the Curtain live broadcast, and the early morning celebration party only added to her fatigue. As soon as it was daylight, she passed out drunk in bed, skipping sses for the entire day.


    On the other hand, Adelle, who had also drunk quite a bit, was unaffected and remained energetic all night without needing sleep, which she ims is a skill developed from staying upte watching shows. Now suffering from a terrible hangover, Lois saw Adelle ying cheerfully on the Curtain and couldn��t help but kick her with her foot.


    ��Sorry!�� Lois preemptively shouted out loud.


    Adelle was immediately taken aback by her action, muttering, ��Always taking it out on me����


    ��Where��s Sonya?�� Engulite asked. She had been engaged in Exploration in Virtual Realm the previous night and missed the morning party. ��Is she still outside?��


    ��She came back at noon,�� Adelle nodded, ��She��s been lying in bed this whole time.��


    Engulite looked over and noticed that Sonya was deeply engrossed in the Curtain, seriously tapping away, her expressions changing rapidly��smiling joyfully one moment, gritting her teeth the next, then looking serious and deep, and asionally raising her eyebrows in triumph, her expressions shifting several times within a minute.


    The Swordsmanship girl blinked, ��Why has she suddenly be so obsessed with the Curtain? She��s almost like someone else����


    ��Engulite, you��ve changed,�� Adelle said solemnly. ��You didn��t use to beat around the bush and insult people like this.��


    ��I didn��t say it was you!��


    ��Still denying it? As if I don��t know who��s the biggest Curtain addict in this building!��

 Chapter 269: The Observer is Dead by My Hand

    Chapter 269: The Observer is Dead by My Hand


    At this moment, Sonya noticed Engulite had returned and called out, ��Quick, go to the School Forum and find the post titled ��Is Miss Therave a Disgrace to Our School Regardless of Her Skills?�� and help me obliterate the author.��


    ��Adelle, you shoulde help too. There are a bunch of idiots in there spouting nonsense and rolling around; it��s infuriating. Come and st them with me!��


    Engulite pointed at Sonya, her face a picture of confusion, and looked towards Adelle.


    Adelle shrugged. ��She��s been like this all afternoon, intensely searching for herself. She echoes posts that praise her and curses at the ones that insult her�� she just can��t stop.��


    Previously, Sonya was merely recognized as a genius within the Swordsmanship Department, and not much attention was paid by other departments. However, afterst night��s Mixer Party where she summoned the Two Wings spirit and slew the alchemical giant bear during the Chief Battle, the Red-haired Swordswoman��s fame skyrocketed across Gales. The School Forum was flooded with the name ��Sonya Therave�� all day.


    But Sonya was not a Gold Coin��while some admired her, others despised her. Quickly, the forum divided into two factions. One believed Sonya would emerge as a new Swordflower of the Sanctuary, potentially a Legend, while the other viewed her as merely a lucky rustic girl who would soon fade into obscurity, a disgrace to the Swordflower title.


    Engulite opened the post, and her expression shifted slightly.


    The post mainly argued three points: Sonya was not only non-Noble but not even an ordinary citizen, just a marginal impoverished viger, ��A mud-leggedmoner likely just using a Sorcerer status to sell herself at a high price.��


    Sonya had lost her father early on, and her mother was a farmer. Where would she get the resources to study and learn, ��She might have been exploiting her beauty even as a child.��The reason Sonya became a Two Wings Sorcerer in just a month, a speed beyond normal, even legendary Sorcerers hadn��t achieved such absurdity, so she must have received support from others. But why would she receive such support, ��Perhaps she found herself a new father?��


    Every point was a nderous attack, bereft of any logic. Engulite, furious at the read, eximed, ��Can��t we just track down the author and beat them up?��


    ��It��s a new ount, can��t dig anything up,�� stated Adelle. ��Today the School Forum saw a surge of zero-post ounts, all specifically trashing Sonya. They know they have no reasonable ground, so they don��t dare use their main ounts to confront us directly.��


    Engulite, puzzled, asked, ��Can��t these ounts that are indiscriminately insulting people be banned?��


    Adelle sighed, ��Take a closer look. The original poster didn��t use a single swear word; all the phrases just skirt the edge of insult, using suggestive tone to lead thoughts in a negative direction. Even if reported, the school can��t officially recognize it as direct verbal abuse.��


    ��I thought the students at Swordflower College would have better morals���� Engulite continued scrolling through otherments, growing increasingly agitated, ��People in our town wouldn��t even speak like this!��


    ��Hah, don��t mention Swordflower College; even the School Forum at Truth College is filled with this kind of toxic posting. Colleges can only screen intelligence, perseverance, and background, but not character,�� Adelle shook her head. ��That��s how it is with us Nobles, polite face to face, but spewing nonsense behind the Curtain.��


    Engulite looked towards Sonya, concerned, ��Sonya, are you okay?��


    ��Huh? I��m fine, look, another person got so scared by our replies they didn��t dare to respond.��


    The rustic girl flipped over, lying back on the bed, ��So cowardly, must be one of those jerks from the Wind Department, hiding behind the Curtain and still wavering.��


    Engulite blinked, Sonya��s reaction waspletely different from what she expected.


    At that moment, Lois finally recovered from her hangover and waved her hand, ��Don��t worry about her; she��s the type who gets more excited the more people insult her.��


    ��Why do you make me sound like a pervert!�� Sonya flipped back, continuing to lie on the bed.


    ��Tell me how you��re not a pervert. Can a normal person raise their Magical Factions to Gold Tier in just a month from scratch!?��


    ��Hmph, jealousy sounds so sweet.��


    ��See, I wasn��t wrong, you are a pervert, pervert, pervert!��


    ��Lois, your way of being affectionate is really weird.��


    ��Sonya the mega pervert!��


    Facing derogatory and nderousments, people generally react in one of three ways: The first is to be heartbroken, losing sleep over suchments as if they were a physical blow, necessitating avoidance;


    The second is to maintainposure, getting angry but not distressed, and not dwelling on these minor issues as if nothing happened;


    The third type is like Sonya, with a heart of steel.


    You insult me? I��ll insult you back, and not just that, I��ll call others to join me in theeback!


    Anger is my fuel, words are my ammunition, and if I don��t make you surrender with them, then I consider it a loss!


    While ordinary people might cry over such nder and vilification, Sonya is different. The vige shees from is no simple ce; from a young age, she honed her verbal skills through insulting others. When she sees these covert smears by Nobles on the School Forum, she��s utterly unfazed, even finding it somewhat amusing.


    Is that all?


    City rats don��t even squeak as sharply as country rats.


    Engulite carefully read through the post replies and asked, ��Is ��Did the Swordswoman eat today?�� from Sonya?��


    ��No, that was me,�� Adelle said. ��Sonya��s alternate ount is right beneath that one in the thread.��


    Engulite looked perplexed, ��The ��President of the Stretching ws Club��? What does that mean?��


    Sonya nced at her, theny on the bed, sticking her bottom up in the air and stretching her arms forward as far as she could to stretch her back, much like a cat,fortably squinting her eyes, ��This is what it means to stretch ws.��


    Adelle quickly snapped a photo with the speed of lightning, ��Don��t worry, I won��t share it, just keeping it for myself.��


    ��Of course you can��t share,�� Sonya said. ��Even if you were to post a lifestyle photo, it would have to wait until I��m dressed in my Battle Garment and have my makeup done, and besides, the dorm lighting isn��t good, we��d need to get a ring light����


    Watching Sonya��s antics, Engulite couldn��t help but remark, ��I used to think that Geniuses were always aloof and detached, like Professor Trozan is the epitome of a Genius in my mind����


    Engulite never imagined that a real Genius not only isn��t aloof but also intensely engages in searching their own discussion threads, uses alternate ounts to argue on forums, and even pays attention to lighting when taking photos��


    ��Your impression isn��t wrong,�� Lois said. ��What is wrong is the Stars, who blindly favored Sonya. No wonder there are so many novels about ��poor boys favored by princesses�� out there; there��s some truth to them after all.��


    ��You��re talking behind my back again,�� Sonya sat up. ��But today I��m in a good mood. Not only am I not going to hold your jealousy against you, but I��m also nning to treat you to a meal!��


    ��Really?�� Adelle jumped up excitedly. ��What are we eating?��


    ��At the school restaurant!��


    ��You��re treating us to the school restaurant after winning the Chief Battle?��


    ��That��s true,�� Sonya mused, chin in hand. ��After all, since I won the Chief Battle, it should be you treating me, shouldn��t it? Why should I be the one paying?��


    ��That��s odd,�� Adelle remarked. ��Sonya, you didn��t use to take advantage of others, but recently you��ve gotten shameless. I wonder who you learned that from�� And for the record, it wasn��t me!��


    ��You know me,�� Engulite said calmly. ��It wasn��t me either.��


    ��I��m usually the one Sonya takes advantage of,�� Lois added, curious. ��Besides us, the only other people Sonya is in frequent contact with are Felix and Professor Trozan, but they don��t seem like that type either�� Could it be you��ve secretly started dating someone behind our backs?��


    ��Let��s go eat,�� Sonya jumped down to change her clothes, sounding annoyed. ��I��m rarely giving you the chance to treat me to a meal, so I advise you not to miss it.��


    ��Changing the subject!��


    ��Putting on airs!��


    ��Girl, you��ve caught my attention. Hand over your man, and I��ll spare your life!��


    The dormitory was buzzing as everyone headed out to eat.


    At 11 PM, as usual, Sonya arrived at the Meditation Tower, ready to enter the Virtual Realm.


    She had a lot to discuss tonight: she had learned a new Miracle in her dreams, and her Swordsmanship Faction had advanced to the Gold Tier, sessfully summoning a new Two Wings spirit;


    She had won the Chief Battle and would be participating in the Intercollegiate League as a Swordflower seed yer;


    It seemed Demilo might be connected to Vlozrada, and Star Hall was likely under the Stars Sovereign��s Faction��


    Thinking of this, Sonya couldn��t wait to step into the Time Continent to show off her achievements to the Observer.


    She summoned her newly acquired Two Wings spirit, Sword Shadow, and tapped into the Gate of Truth within the spirit to descend into the secondyer of the Virtual Realm on the Time Continent.


    As her consciousness sank into the Virtual Realm, the rustic girl slowly opened her eyes. Finding herself in the front seat of a sports car, she turned around and said to those in the back, ��Observer Witch, you��ll never guess what happenedst night����


    Mid-sentence, Sonya faltered.


    She looked at the Witch, and the Witch looked back at her. They nced around and saw no one else.


    ��Where is the Observer?�� Sonya asked, puzzled.


    ��It��s not my fault,�� Deya quickly disimed any responsibility.


    Soon, they noticed a note stuck on the car��s windshield:


    ��Got held up tonight, you two go for a drive. Just don��t wreck the car.��


    ��And Swordswoman, our adventure went smoothlyst night, and we didn��t speak ill of you, ask the Witch if you don��t believe me.��


    Sonya turned to Deya, ��What bad things did you say about mest night?��


    Deya looked utterly perplexed, hesitating to speak, then stopping, her expression twisted as if she were in stomach pain.


    After discussing with her sisters for a moment, they decided to follow the advice of the ck Butler: ��Actually, the Observer lied.��


    ��Where did he lie?��


    ��Our explorationst night did not go smoothly. The Observer was run over by my car as soon as he arrived in the Virtual Realm, so we didn��t have a chance to speak ill of you.��

 Chapter 270: Life Difficulty Easy Mode

    Chapter 270: Life Difficulty Easy Mode


    ��They should have seen my message by now����


    Seated in the back of Miss��s luxury car, Ashe scrolled through the dial, summoning his Gospel. He flipped to the Sorcerer Handbook interface, where the current Team Composition was disyed under ��Exploration in Virtual Realm��:


    ��Team Composition: Death Maniac Swordswoman, ck-and-White Witch��


    ��Location: Time Continent��


    ��Status: Exploring��


    Before leaving home, Ashe had arranged for the two of them to embark on the Exploration in Virtual Realm.


    Of course, even without his arrangement, the two would have ventured into the exploration on their own. However, having received Ashe��s approval, the swordswoman duo were allowed to use his sports car.


    However, the Map seemed to be bound to Ashe��s gaming system and could not be lent to them.


    And simr to the Swordswoman��s Leave Request , although Ashe was not part of the team, a share of the team��s spoils still had to be allocated to him. Thirty percent of the arcane energy experience earned by the swordswoman and the witch would be shared with Ashe, and they might trigger special mechanisms that would benefit him.The only difference from an Operator was that Ashe��s leave had no Restrictions!


    If he wished, he could avoid entering the Virtual Realm altogether, relying solely on the gains from the swordswoman and witch to grow stronger!


    But as Ashe decided not to join the exploration that evening, the game issued a reminder: ��Interacting with Operators is crucial for maintaining Bond Levels. If Operators perceive that you are avoiding meetings, it could gradually decrease their favorability towards you, leading to a reduction in Bond Level.��


    Only then did Ashe realize that the game��s favorability was fluctuating, not fixed once it increased. This meant that taking a leave or two might be fine, but constantly avoiding work and distancing himself from the group could lead to dissatisfaction among the frontline workers.


    No, working was for earning, but Ashe entered the Virtual Realm primarily to enhance his Bonds with the Operators.


    Rather than calling it work, it felt more like�� team building?


    Realizing this, Ashe suddenly developed a reluctance to enter the Virtual Realm.


    Ying��


    With a slight vibration, the hovercar switchednes, yet Ashe remained as steady as Mount Tai. He looked at Annan in the driver��s seat and swiftly brought his thoughts back to reality.


    Although Harvey and Igor had not breathed a word about it, the nature of the tasks associated with people like them could only be rted to gang vendettas, trickery, robbery, and theft, given their narrow range of operations which a single criminal code could epass.


    Despite Ashe��s usual calm demeanor, he had secretly investigated Azura��s underworld forces primarily through online games. Many helpful folks from Azura had educated him that there were ten major underworld forces in the region, known as ��One Pce, Two Firms, Three Families, Four Major Companies.��


    The ��One Pce�� referred to the Mermaid Pce. The sea demon race, dubbed the ��Sewer Royalty�� of the Gospel Kingdom, had chain stores in major cities. Nearly all murders, smuggling, drug trafficking, and race trading had to pass through the sea demons�� approval, making them the undisputed leaders of the underworld.


    ��Two Firms�� meant the top two firms in the Azura Sub-Ranking, both squeezing into the top ten of the General Ranking. Firms like the one Annan represented, which were pushed out of the top ten of the sub-ranking, ended up taking the leftover cases that others passed on.


    ��Three Families�� were ancient families deeply rooted in the Azura region. Ashe didn��t remember their specific surnames or emblems, but he did remember that they intermarried among themselves and their connections were deeply entrenched in departments like Bluebeard, Red Cap, and the Government Affairs Hall, even the mayor hailed from one of these families.


    The ��Four Major Companies�� were four enterprises that ounted for over 75% of Azura��s GDP and had also made it into the national corporate rankings, considered too big to fail. Although closely rted to the Three Families, with almost all having received investments from them, the rtionship between the two remainedplicated due to the inherent contradictions between capital and feudal systems. After all, capital naturally resists such feudalistic structures, and it would be naive to think that early investments could control a sessfulpany.


    Thus, as Ashe sat in Annan��s car, he wondered which of the ten major underworld forces they were going to confront. When they reached their destination, even the well-prepared Ashe was stunned by the sight of this underworld stronghold.


    Azura No.4 High School


    ��This is����


    ��No.4 High School, you can just call it No.4 High.��


    Annan stepped out of the car, pressed the car key, and the hovercar went to find a parking spot on its own.


    Although it��s called a high school, No.4 High School looks more like a business center. Each floor radiates a warm, bright light, and the ss revolving doors are wide open, with no security measures in ce nor guards to check visitors.


    Ashe followed Annan inside, and his impression changed once again. There were no ssrooms as one might expect, nor any sounds of teaching. Through the windows, Ashe saw rooms filled with coffin-like pods, fully enclosed, each with a three-dimensional projection disying the name and information of the person inside.


    Rather than a ssroom, it seemed more like aboratory engaged in human experiments.


    However, these fully enclosed pods looked familiar to Ashe. ��They resemble the virtual game pods you often y in, don��t they?�� Annan said. ��Or rather, the game pods resemble these.��


    Ashe paused for a moment, then realized, ��Right, if consciousness immersion technology has already been applied to private virtual gaming, then it must have been adopted in more crucial fields like education, medicine, and experimentation!��


    ��Before I was born, ��Education Pods�� had already be the mainstay of basic education,�� Annan exined. ��Except for Sorcerer colleges, which still employ teachers, elementary and secondary education no longer require them. Most people start their customized education ns in Education Pods from the age of five. It��s said to be a wonderful experience��you��ll have a teacher who perfectly suits you in every aspect. They understand all your thoughts and feelings, use the most ingenious methods, and create the mostfortable scenarios to make you fall in love with learning.��


    ��By the time you reach secondary education, you begin to discover your own Talents, from jump rope to marksman, from hair styling to fashion design, from biological research to civil engineering�� Whether you��ve encountered these fields before or not, the Education Pods strive to unearth your hidden Talents, allowing you to explore the limits of your abilities within just a few years.��


    ��Wait, are you saying that Education Pods can tailor education to each individual?�� Ashe asked, puzzled. ��That sounds like����


    ��Just as you thought,�� Annan said, ��the Education Pod utilizes the big data analysis from the Gospel. Don��t be surprised. Most high-tech enterprises make use of the Gospel��s big data �� the seamless flow of high-speed traffic we saw on the way here and the orderly drones in the sky are all powered by this data analysis, which is why the city��s lifeblood flows like art.��


    ��Banjeet mentioned that you and Mr. Harvey seem to have some reservations about our education system, believing that families without Points will be far behind those with Points reserves.��


    Annan nced around the room filled with hundreds of Education Pods: ��But in reality, until your Talent is recognized by the Virtual Realm, the Gospel won��t charge you a penny in tuition.��


    Ashe, however, caught on to a word she had used earlier: ��Supposedly?��


    ��Yes,�� Annan flicked her Amethyst Earring, ��I never went to school.��


    ��The majority of wealthy people do not partake in the basic education provided by the Gospel Kingdom.��


    ��Why not?��


    ��Because basic education isn��t free. If you want to receive basic education, you have to Sign a Contract and pay a price.��


    ��What price?��


    ��Lifelong education.��


    Ashe was puzzled, ��Lifelong education is a price?��


    Annan nodded, pointing to a mature woman who had just emerged from an Education Pod in the next room: ��Depending on age, each person has a certain educational time quota per year. It��s most intensive during youth, practically requiring daily sses. After reaching adulthood and starting work, the educational time is significantly reduced, but you still have to attend at least 60 hours of courses per month.��


    ��The adult courses offer a lot of freedom; you can learn anything you want, whether it��s stacking blocks, ying the harmonica, makeup techniques, or appreciating Shadow Drama�� as long as your brain absorbs new knowledge, it offsets the educational time.��


    Ashe blinked, ��Isn��t that�� a good thing?��


    ��I never said it wasn��t a good thing,�� Annan replied, nodding slightly to the mature woman as she passed by, then ascending the stairs, ��The Gospel Kingdom has sustained a technology boom for Thirty Years, and the lifelong education system has contributed a lot to this.��


    ��Why do wealthy people not participate in basic education?��


    ��Why don��t you want to be employed by me for life, insisting on reducing the time to 101 days?�� Annan retorted.


    ��That��s a false analogy,�� Ashe immediately countered. ��How can serving you as a beast of burden bepared to lifelong education? One is like eating dirt, the other like having a meal!��


    ��It doesn��t seem like you��re serving me as a beast of burden right now,�� Annan raised an eyebrow. ��Are you saying I��m the dirt?��


    ��No, no, no, I am the dirt, you��re the one dining.��


    Annan was momentarily amused by his response, forgetting where she had left off. After a moment she continued, ��Just like you��re unwilling to ept a lifetime Contract, if we had the choice, we wouldn��t ept the lifelong shackles either. My Family would rather have Banjeet tutor me than sign a Contract for basic education.��


    ��By the way, the Gospel Kingdom also offers another lifelong Contract, or rather a benefit��lifelongbor. If you sign a contract with the Labor Security Bureau, you��ll receive the average social sry even when unemployed, but in return, the Bureau will assign you suitable employment.��


    ��Of course, the job must meet the three basic principles: good pay, light duties, and close to home, and it absolutely must align with your interests, because job assignments also rely on data analysis from the Gospel. If there are no suitable jobs, the Gospel would rather you stay home and collect unemployment benefits.��


    ��However, long-term unemployment is rare because all enterprises mustply with the nning of the Labor Security Bureau. The enterprises themselves only staff 10% of their workforce; the remaining 90% must be provided by the Labor Security Bureau. This policy still operates healthily to this day, proving that the quality of the 90% of employees likely surpasses that of the 10% recruited by thepanies themselves.��


    Lifelong education, lifelongbor, then��


    Ashe looked a bit puzzled: ��There wouldn��t also be a lifelong love Contract, would there?��


    Annan shook her head with a smile: ��How could that be�� right, the Gospel can indeed help you find a perfect match��if you saved the world in your past life.��


    ��Yet, most of the time, the Gospel can uncover Treasures buried deep underground, determine the weight of the sun, and calcte the rhythms of the moon, but it just can��t provide us with a perfect love,�� Annan exined.


    ��But���� Annan��s lips curled into a subtle smile, ��if you��re just choosing the most suitable partner from those you know, the Gospel can still help you.��


    ��Love is a luxury, but marriage is not, and lifelong marriages aremon here. While not mandatory, most people marry the most suitable person within their socialwork afterpleting their secondary education at age 17. Then, following the Gospel��s guidance, they mate at the optimal times to have the healthiest babies�� It has been proven that those who follow this path achieve happiness.��


    ��Appropriate education, suitable job, right partner. If life had a difficulty setting, then by signing three lifelong Contracts, you��d switch to easy mode��just listen quietly to the Gospel and the world opens its most amodating side to you.��


    ��Uncovering hidden Talents, finding a job that may not be grand but fulfills one��s life value, having a partner who may not be perfect but with whom you share deep affection�� Ashe found himself envying this, needing to read several inspirational posts shared by his manager just to cope.��


    And all these blessings are just the basic social security for most people in the Gospel.


    ��If a normal life under the Gospel is like ying on ��easy mode,�� then Ashe��s previous life was at least on ��hard mode,�� designed for those who the creators suggest should not pick this difficulty on their first attempt at life.��


    ��This lifetime is even more daunting, like starting with a ��harder start�� mod where all enemies are enhanced.��


    Looking back now, Ashe realized that his beginning was like being attacked by Gerard, a Sorcerer of the Tri-wings Sanctuary��a high-level yer striking from another dimension. If any game dared to start like that, it would be guaranteed to receive a refund request within two hours.


    However��


    Ashe, puzzled, asked, ��All this sounds quite good, doesn��t it? What are you dissatisfied with?��


    ��I��m not dissatisfied,�� Annan said with a smile. ��On the contrary, I��m grateful for this system. It��s precisely because the melody of the Gospel is so harmonious that a discordant note like me stands out so starkly.��


    ��We��re here.��


    They arrived on the third floor and stopped outside a room. Miss pointed to Education Pod 15 inside: ��That��s my target, an Orc Sorcerer, but a Production Sorcerer with nobat ability whatsoever. Now it��s your turn, Ashe.��


    Ashe looked around: ��You want me to kill someone in a school?��


    ��Of course not, our Firm is aw-abiding good citizen,�� Annan replied. ��Just pull him out and give him a beating to make him leave. This is a task specifically prepared for you.��


    ��Ah? Why is my task this?��


    ��Because your other twopanions don��t seem like the kind to stop easily. They are more suited for services that lead to death or serious injury.��


    Ashe didn��t immediately argue with Annan. After pondering for a moment, he suddenly remembered the ��Bullhide�� spirit he had acquired in the Virtual Realm. Clearly a spirit from the Physical Faction, it could temporarily enhance his defense, so Ashe had kept it without integrating it into the system yet.


    He activated the ��Bullhide�� spirit to boost his defense, and his skin, pale with a hint of pink, took on a faint bronze tint. Then, putting on the mask given by Igor, his appearance resembled that of a well-fed street thug with nothing better to do.


    ��Is he a bad guy?�� Ashe suddenly asked.


    ��Not really,�� Annan nced at him. ��He just cares a lot about his reputation.��


    Ashe said no more and entered the room. Next to the Education Pod, he found an emergency call button. After pressing it, Pod 15 quickly opened to both sides.


    A medium-sized Orc emerged, looking bewilderedly at Ashe: ��Who are you?��


    Ashe: ��  ��


    The Orc, both shocked and delighted: ��Really? My father died a few years ago, and my mother hasn��t found a new partner. She would definitely like you.��


    Ashe: ��  ��


    The Orc scratched his head: ��Haha, I��m not very bright. Evening here to learn, I��m more about the technical side; I can��t understand the theory.��


    Ashe fell into contemtion, eventually tiptoeing to pat the Orc on the head.


    ��Why aren��t you wearing a hat?��

 Chapter 271: A Guide to Knee Pillows

    Chapter 271: A Guide to Knee Pillows


    ��Do you know? It is said that just before death, a Sorcerer��s Soul enters a state known as ��Elysian Dreamscape.����


    Lying on the ground, Ashe opened one eye and saw Annan squatting beside him. Her purple stockings elongated her legs, pressing a plush white rabbit outward, and her short skirt did little to fend off intruders, instead stirring a desire to conquer and explore.


    Annan spoke leisurely, ��In the ��Elysian Dreamscape,�� time is infinite. There, Sorcerers erase all memories and relive an entire lifetime.��


    ��However, unlike reality, everything in the ��Elysian Dreamscape�� unfolds as the Sorcerer desires. People they like return their affection, desired things are obtained easily, and disliked individuals meet an immediate demise�� Sorcerers can dominate the Destiny of everyone in the Dreamscape, doing as they please, in boundless bliss.��


    ��Is there really such a thing?�� Ashe couldn��t help butugh, which made him tremble in pain: ��I��ve neared death a few times myself, why haven��t I experienced it even once?��


    ��How do you know this isn��t your ��Elysian Dreamscape�� right now?��


    Annan blinked like Ashe and chuckled, ��The ��Elysian Dreamscape�� only appears at the moment before death, and once the dream ends, it means the Sorcerer is certain to die. Ashe, do you know where a Sorcerer��s Soul goes after death?��


    ��Hell?�� Ashe asked tentatively. ��But I��ve heard that the Divine Master��s heaven might also ept Soul migrations����


    ��That��s right, either hell or heaven,�� Annan confirmed. ��And what determines whether you go to hell or heaven is your behavior in the ��Elysian Dreamscape.������If you remain devout in the dream, living ording to the Divine Master��s will, then you can ascend to heaven; but if you indulge recklessly and enjoy carnal pleasures, you will fall into hell.��


    ��Ashe, would you prefer a moment of pleasure or eternal happiness?��


    ��Can I choose not to die?��


    ��Do you know why I��m telling you this story, Ashe?�� Annan propped her chin with her hands as she gazed at Ashe lying on the ground. ��Although I can��t delve into your past, from what Mr. Bukin and Mr. Harvey have said, I gather that you were cellmates and recently escaped from prison, eventually crossing through the Virtual Realm Passage to reach Gospel.��


    ��Because of this, I had already braced myself for the moral lows you might exhibit. That��s why Mr. Harvey and Mr. Bukin actually surprised me��if we were to measure them by the standards of the Firm, they��ve surpassed the average moral level.��


    That must mean your line of work is reallycking in standards��


    ��If the two of them were a surprise, then you, Ashe, have been a shock.��


    Annan nced at the bruises on Ashe��s face. ��I really didn��t expect you toplete the task by faking a fight.��


    ��What fake fight? I genuinely couldn��t beat him!�� Ashe spoke a bit too forcefully, pulling at the bruises on his face and wincing in pain. ��That was an Orc! Not only was he heavier, but he seemed to have learned somebat skills. Luckily, my skills in the Fist and w Faction are decent enough; otherwise, I couldn��t have escaped him. I��vepleted the task you assigned, winning cleanly and decisively.��


    ��You call this battered state of yours a win?�� Annan was somewhat speechless. ��The victory was probably more like seventy-thirty.��


    ��How is it only seventy percent?��


    ��Seventy percent for the Orc, thirty for you!��


    Annan helped Ashe up, and he naturally ced his hand on her shoulder, shifting his weight towards her. Purple Moth spoke irritably, ��I need to take a photo of this momentter. It will definitely prove that I��m sincerely coborating with you. Even Mr. Bukin can��t use me of treating you like ves��what kind of ve owner helps up a ve?��


    Ashe chuckled, ��You��re underestimating Igor. He only uses reason when it��s to his advantage. If reason is detrimental to him, then he��ll resort to ��double standards,�� ��logical facies,�� ��shifting the topic,�� and other miracles to find ways to me you. For a Con Artist, reason is such an inconvenient thing, isn��t it?��


    ��I can understand that,�� Annan snorted. ��People can��t betray their own interests. Reason is just a consensus that benefits most, and if it��s harmful to oneself, there��s no need to acknowledge it.��


    ��But because selfishness is amon human trait, I can��t understand you��why didn��t you use a sorcerer��s power to beat the Orc?��


    ��I did,�� Ashe replied. ��I enhanced my skin��s defense, but I didn��t expect the Orc��s basic attack power to be so high����


    ��What about your Sword Technique Miracle? Your Defensive Miracle?�� Annan said. ��Even without using miracles, if you had just drawn the sword hidden on you, the mere presence of a Swordcerer��s spirit could have scared him into kneeling.��


    ��Being a Production Sorcerer, he understands the terror of a Battle Sorcerer more than ordinary people.��


    ��How do you know I have a sword hidden on me?�� Ashe was somewhat surprised, as he had never exposed his Honeyed de in the Gospel Kingdom.


    ��As a Swordcerer, the fact that you never carry a sword with you already says a lot,�� Annan nced at him, the Amethyst Earring shimmering with a dazzling halo. ��Any sorcerer with equipment would carry their weapons at all times, like the Red Cap units that are auxiliary trained in Gun Technique; they even take their Firearms to the bath.��


    ��And when they go to the bathroom����


    ��Why?�� Annan cut off his attempt to continue the trivial topic. ��Why don��t you show your true strength and instead fight like an ordinary person?��


    ��Ipleted the task, didn��t I?��


    ��Do I need to order you to get a serious answer from you?��


    ��I almost forgot you can now demand anything from me,�� Ashe muttered. ��Well, I just didn��t want to bully anyone. It already felt weird intentionally causing trouble for him, and using a sorcerer��s power to suppress him would just make me a in viin.��


    ��I used to be assigned stupid and offending tasks by my terrible boss when I worked. But to make a living, I had to grit my teeth and do them.��


    ��Because I knew that if I didn��t do it, someone else would. And if it was me doing it, I could at least minimize the harm.��


    The Cult Leader paused, ��Though I didn��t reduce the harm much, since I did kick the Orc hard enough to send him flying����


    ��Alright, alright.�� Annan said. ��So are you using the person who assigned the task��me, your terrible boss?��


    ��Terrible boss is just a metaphor,�� Ashe shrugged. ��In life, you will inevitably have conflicts with others; there will always be something forcing you to hurt others, like living conditions, desires, beliefs, family�� and yes, including you.��


    ��I can��t resist you now, and besides me, you have other executors,�� Ashe spoke calmly. ��Since that��s the case, I��llplete the task in my own way.��


    ��That Orc will probably think about how to punch better when he goes to bed tonight, and by tomorrow morning, he��ll have forgotten this fight. If I had bullied him unnecessarily with a Sorcerer��s power, he might never forget the humiliation I caused him until the day he dies.��


    By then, they had left the school, and Annan pressed his car key, signaling the Hovercar toe over.


    ��He��s not even the same race as you, you don��t find his appearance appealing, and you have no rtionship with him, why would you choose the most troublesome way to help him?��


    ��He never offended me before, so why should I hurt him in the cruelest way possible?��


    Both remained silent, waiting until the Hovercar arrived. Annan got into the back seat and gestured for Ashe to sit next to him.


    ��Ashe, do you remember the story of the Elysian Dreamscape?�� Annan said. ��I��ve always found the Elysian Dreamscape to be unfair because most of the people I know can��t pass the dream��s tests to enter heaven, but they aren��t bad enough to fall into hell either�� I��m the same.��


    ��The Elysian Dreamscape purposely creates an environment where evil can be vented, drawing out people��s desires, thereby proving they should fall into hell�� It��s just arrogance, like a Sorcerer oppressing mortals with power, or a Divine Master manipting lives with dreams.��


    ��But you��re different, Ashe,�� Annan said. ��You��re not someone who would be in-between. I have a strong feeling that in your Elysian Dreamscape, it would either be a paradise where everyone is happy, or an unimaginable hell. You would either stand above the heavens or be an enemy of the gods.��


    ��I appreciate thepliment, Miss, but I��m just a zero-star genius who hasn��t made any Ranking List,�� Ashe responded calmly, not tempted by Annan��s grand visions. ��I don��t wish to go to either heaven or hell.��


    ��Hmm,�� Annan hummed softly and patted her thigh. ��Lie down.��


    ��What?��


    Annan summoned a hydrotherapy spirit. ��Don��t you need healing? Or you can go back and have Banjeet treat you.��


    ��Don��t think you can harass me just because you��re my boss���� Ashe said as hey down on herp.


    The faint scent of violets, the sticity of her thighs, the smooth texture of her stockings�� Well, it��s not bad.


    Unknowingly, Ashe had also amassed a wealth of experience inp pillows.


    The Swordswoman��sp pillow, Freya��sp pillow, and now Annan��sp pillow could be said to rival each other in quality. The Swordswoman would sing during herp pillows, Freya would clean his ears, and although the Miss didn��t have any special skills to add, she was currently Ashe��s boss, and that alone was enough to earn a nod of respect.


    While Ashe was mentally rating them, Annan, while treating his bruises, asked, ��So, are we heading back now? Or do you want to buy something?��


    ��Huh?�� Ashe was taken aback. ��Is the mission over?��


    ��It��s over,�� Annan smiled. ��Did you think I would assign you something very difficult? You just wanted to spend money in the game; I certainly wouldn��t make you kill someone�� at least not to do it personally.��


    ��Then why did you have me drive that Orc away?��


    ��Curious?��


    Ashe suddenly sat up, turning to look at Annan. ��If Harvey and Igor are curious, then I am too.��


    ��After all, that was your real purpose for taking me out tonight, wasn��t it?��


    Annan pulled him back down to lie down and continued to leisurely treat his injuries, but she didn��t answer his question.


    Although Ashe didn��t know Annan��s attitude, he first took a good look, his eyes wide open.


    That Amethyst Earring, really big and shy!

 Chapter 272: My Inability to Impregnate Elves Makes Me Disabled

    Chapter 272: My Inability to Impregnate Elves Makes Me Disabled


    Several minutes had passed, and Ashe��s treatment was nearlyplete. The hovercar had alsoe to a stop.


    However, Annan didn��t open the car door. Instead, he pulled out a remote control and pressed it, causing a drone to rise from the rearpartment of the vehicle. This appeared to be a special model, capable of silently ascending to the height of about ten stories.


    ��That Orc sorcerer lives right here,�� Annan exined. ��His n for tonight is to study from 8 PM until 4 AM, then enter the Virtual Realm inside an Education Pod, where he will spend three hours before leaving for work at 7 AM.��


    Ashemented, ��That sounds like a full life.��


    ��His wife thinks so too,�� Annan said as he pressed the remote again, projecting a Holographic Screen into the air. ��This is the image transmitted by the drone�� I don��t mind, but you can��t see the screen with you lying on myp.��


    ��Ah, is the treatment over already?�� Ashe realized, sitting up suddenly. ��I thought����


    Before Ashe could finish his thought, he was captivated by the scene disyed on the screen.


    The drone��s footage showed a heart-stopping battle �� an Orc was brutally beating a naked blond man, while a female Elf in pajamas, her hands bound, cowered fearfully to one side.


    No further exnation was needed; Ashe immediately understood that thebatants were a pure-hearted Orc warrior and a blond Minotaur.��Can Orcs and Elves reproduce? Aren��t different races unable to breed?�� Ashe asked, noticing this detail first �� he remembered that in the Blood Moon Kingdom, reproductive segregation among races was extremely strict, causing races like Humans, Ogres, Goblins, and Orcs, which have strong reproductive capabilities, to proliferate widely, while Elves and Bewitchers, who have weaker reproductive abilities, were quite rare.


    ��Reproductive segregation was solved hundreds of years ago,�� Annan replied. ��Long ago, people believed that babies born with the bloodlines of all races would possess the talents of each race. For the rewards of the Weaving Festival, sorcerers of the past continuously researched miracles to break the barriers of reproduction.��


    ��But the results were not as ideal �� the newborn would be dominantly influenced by the bloodline of one race, while the bloodlines of other races remained recessive and silent.��


    ��Now all newborns are vinated and receive gic adjustments. After over a decade of gic modifications, they will ovee reproductive segregation upon reaching adulthood. Some families might stick to traditions and avoid these adjustments, but in the broader social consensus, maintaining reproductive segregation is nearly akin to having a disability.��


    As he spoke, Annan nced at Ashe.


    Ashe blinked��Am I considered disabled because I can��t impregnate Elves?


    ��Moreover, the priority of racial bloodlines is highly random. Like this Orc and Elf couple, their child could be an Orc or an Elf. So, over the years, races that were once minorities, like Elves and Sea demons, are nearly catching up in poption size with Humans and Orcs. This couple, for instance, has an Elf daughter, but she��s staying with her grandparents tonight and isn��t here.��


    Annan watched the Holographic Screen: ��Interracial marriages like between an Orc and an Elf are not umon, or rather, marriages within the same race have been decreasing in recent years.��


    At this moment, Ashe truly realized the profound differences between the Gospel and Blood Moon Kingdoms��not only in terms of technological levels but also in their fundamentally ipatible cultural systems.


    Biological adjustments are not merely about breaking reproductive barriers, just as the Bloodline Prohibition Act creates a society full of orphans, biological adjustments alsoy the foundation for a massive racial Fusion.


    The Bloodline Prohibition Act of Blood Moon and the biological adjustments of Gospel represent nearly opposite societal transformations.


    The former not only preserves racial divisions but even esctes these distinctions to individual levels, where each person is an isted entity, unable to establish any stable rtionships; thetterpletely breaks down racial barriers, amalgamating all cultures, eradicating any race-based hierarchy��could someone whose mother is a Sea demon still im ��Humans are nobler than Sea demons��?


    At this moment, the blond man in the screen seemed to say something, causing the Orc Sorcerer to hesitate. However, he did not let go but instead tied the blond man up with a rope.


    ��What did he say?��


    ��He imed to be someone from the Kelmor Family, which means hees from a significant background,�� Annan exined. ��He canpensate with Points and money.��


    ��How do you know that?�� Ashe dug at his ear. ��There��s no sound in the video.��


    ��I can read lips.��


    ��Wait, isn��t the blond man facing away from us? How could you see his lips?��


    ��Just add a little imagination.��


    ��So you��re just making it up����


    At that moment, whatever the blond man said next enraged the Orc Sorcerer. He kicked out, sending the blond crashing against the wall, coughing up a great deal of blood, and then rushed up to deliver a barrage of blows.


    Ashe was initially amused, but his smile gradually faded, and he suddenly asked, ��Did you know from the start that it would turn out like this?��


    ��Yes,�� Annan replied. ��I had you send away the Orc Sorcerer because I needed him toe home and see the video of his Elf wife��s infidelity.��


    ��But didn��t you just say that nowadays, married couples are the most suitable matches for each other? Why would there still be betrayal?��


    ��It depends on how you define ��most suitable.����


    Annan gently touched his earring. ��For instance, if there��s a female Elf who naturally loves fun and is attracted to men, how would you choose a suitable partner for her?��


    ��A man who also enjoys fun?�� guessed Ashe. ��So they can both do their own thing?��


    ��Wrong,�� Annan said. ��That pairing vites the fundamental principle of marriage: mutual benefit. Two equally fun-loving people together might not harm each other, but they also don��t provide any benefits, which is just like not being married at all. Moreover, betraying a partner is part of the fun, and if your partner doesn��t care about your infidelity, then cheating is pointless.��


    Ashe looked at the image on the Holographic Screen, his face devoid of any smile: ��So, the best match for a fun-loving female Elf is a dedicated, capable male Orc?��


    ��Yes,�� Annan nodded. ��With an Elf wife, the Orc Sorcerer feels happy and motivated at work; and with an Orc husband, the Elf enjoys the love and protection of a partner, and can seek thrills on the side when needed. Both parties achieve happiness, making it a mutually beneficial marriage.��


    ��But what if it��s discovered?�� Ashe pointed at the Holographic Screen. ��Is it still a suitable marriage then?��


    ��What do you think would happen if we hadn��t intervened?��


    Seeming to have been sitting for too long, Annan changed his posture by crossing his legs and straightening his back to rx, calmly saying, ��The Orc Sorcerer goes to work at seven in the morning and returns home at five in the afternoon to find a virtuous Elf cooking dinner. By six, their daughteres home from middle school, and the family enjoys a peaceful dinner together.��


    ��Guided by the Gospel, they would happily enter their graves without any incidents that could destroy this family.��


    The Gospel.


    A thought gradually formed in Ashe��s mind: ��Does the Elf ask the Gospel how to keep her husband in the dark?��


    ��I��m d you��re catching up,�� Annan smiled. ��But that��s not quite it. If I��m not mistaken, the Elf learned techniques like ��Anti-Reconnaissance�� in her secondary education, and she uses the Gospel to check for any slip-ups, ensuring the Orc Sorcerer remains oblivious his entire life.��


    ��Does the Orc never suspect? Just a little doubt, and if he consults the Gospel����


    ��Do you suspect your pillow will suddenly grow teeth and bite you?�� Annan said. ��Human thinking can��t break free from its own perceptions, and Orcs are not naturally suspicious. As long as the web of lies is woven tightly enough, he��ll never escape it.��


    ��But doesn��t that turn the Gospel into a tool for betrayal?�� Ashe barely finished speaking before shaking his head: ��No, matching the Orc with the Elf from the start was already harming them!��


    ��Harming whom? Doesn��t the Orc have a virtuous wife? Doesn��t the Elf have a husband who loves her?�� Annan countered. ��Betrayal is just a minor issue.��


    ��What then is a major issue?��


    ��Getting caught is the major issue.��


    ��That��s not fair!�� Ashe spread his hands. ��The Orc hasn��t done anything wrong, why should he have to suffer����


    ��Orcs aren��t purely good, either,�� Annan said. ��He cares a lot about his image, so he sabotages and defames his outstanding subordinates at work. He consults the Gospel on how to maintain his position and how to set traps for his subordinates�� The harm he causes others might even be greater than the harm caused by his Elf wife��s infidelity.��


    Ashe frowned, faintly sensing that Annan was about to perform a Miracle on him��a Miracle even morepelling than a Contract.


    Annan continued, ��Everyone has their own desires, everyone has their own stance, and everyone wants to encroach on others�� benefits. If everyone acted solely based on their selfish motives and shed with each other, most of society��s resources would be consumed in internal strife.��


    ��Is there a system that can regte everyone��s desires and make everyone happy?��


    A book appeared in Annan��s hand.


    The corners of Annan��s mouth tilted upward in a mix of disdain and resignation.


    ��Under the guidance of the Gospel, a perfect socialwork is woven from three threads: lifelong education, lifelongbor, and lifelong marriage. In thiswork, everyone hurts others to satisfy their own desires, but at the same time, everyone is secretly being hurt by others.��


    ��But it doesn��t matter, the Gospel helps them weave perfect lies, so they don��t know they��re being hurt. The Orc Sorcerer��s subordinates don��t know they��re being sabotaged by their boss, and the Orc Sorcerer doesn��t know his wife seeks pleasures elsewhere while he��s at work.��


    ��It��s like the seamless flow of traffic on the ground and the orderly drone routes in the sky��this vastwork operates carefully yet wlessly, with lies lubricating and concealing any Loopholes.��


    Ashe was stunned for a moment, and after a long pause, he managed to say, ��So, by disrupting their daily routine, are we actually doing something bad?��


    ��Listening to the Gospel leads to happiness,�� Annan said. ��Correspondingly, hearing our noise leads to unhappiness.��


    At that moment, the Orc Sorcerer threw a heavy punch, knocking several teeth out of the blond man.


    Ashe suddenly eximed, ��No, we have to go and save him!��


    ��Weren��t you just enjoying the show? Why would you want to save����


    ��I just want to save this Orc Sorcerer!�� Ashe said. ��If this continues, someone will get killed, and he shouldn��t be taken away by the Red Caps for that!��


    ��Don��t worry,�� Annan reassured him. ��I��ve looked into it. This Orc Sorcerer, although hot-tempered, has never killed even an animal from childhood. He works as a Production Sorcerer in thepany and generally holds back, even when angry.��


    Ashe rxed a bit, but then something didn��t feel right. ��Generally?��


    ��If someone really embarrasses him,�� Annan said slowly, ��then don��t me him for losing his temper.��


    Buzz!


    Suddenly, the sound of flying machines filled the air. Ashe looked up through the transparent roof and saw several Sorcerers wearing Red Caps zooming overhead. Their Boots emitted zing blue mes for propulsion, assisting their flight!


    The warning from the Red Caps echoed through the sky: ��The criminal in room 3506 on the 35th floor of the Holy Spirit Building, cease your criminal activities immediately. ce your hands high against the wall; otherwise, the Red Caps will take coercive action. This is your first warning! Holy Spirit Building����


    Trouble.


    Ashe saw in the Drone footage that the eyes of the Orc Sorcerer were almost red. The arrival of the Red Caps was undoubtedly going to exacerbate the conflict. While there was a chance that the Orc Sorcerer and the blond man could have settled their issues privately, the Red Caps�� broadcast made the entire building aware of the incident in room 3506!


    ��He really cares about his reputation,�� Annanmented.


    Thud!


    There was no sound in the Drone footage, but Ashe felt as if he could hear the sound of lives shattering.

 Chapter 273: Blood Moon and the Gospel

    Chapter 273: Blood Moon and the Gospel


    As the sun rises on the horizon and light falls on the center of Azura, the entire city blooms shyly, as if graced by a Miracle.


    The roads be congested with traffic, and the sky fills with swarms of Drones, as all Races start another day of calm and happiness.


    Annan��s car remains parked not far from the Holy Spirit Building. By now, all traces have been cleaned up by the Red Cap. The suspects have been arrested, the Corpses removed, and the victims transported to the hospital for psychological treatment.


    Perhaps the tale of the Orc Sorcerer will be the talk among neighbors for a few days, but they will soon forget this discordant noise amidst their fast-paced and fulfilling lives.


    Ashe and Annan watch silently as the Red Cap enforces thew, until the first rays of sunlight enter the car, like a p across Ashe��s face.


    The Cult Leader slowly speaks, ��Is this the ��reality�� you showed Harvey and Igor?��


    ��Pretty much,�� Annan replies. ��I selected a few tasks specifically, feeling they would appropriately touch upon your experiences.��


    ��Was the blond man your real target?��


    ��Yes. Amon assassination task, something I wouldn��t have taken in the past even if my methods werepletely legal. However, the Gospel would have lowered my Firm��s rating. But now it doesn��t matter, since to get a few of you, the Firm has already dirtied itselfpletely, might as well consider it trashed.����What was your design philosophy?��


    Annan makes a gesture with three fingers: ��Identify the target, find a proxy, and let the proxy deal with the target.��


    ��But how do you motivate the proxy?��


    ��Everyone has their own desires,�� Annan says. ��The Gospel doesn��t ask you to suppress your desires, it only helps you cover up your actions with lies. When you indulge your desires, you inevitably encroach on the rights of others, but under the veil of lies, neither are you aware of the harm you cause, nor the harm inflicted upon you.��


    ��Thework of rtionships built by the Gospel is so ingeniously fragile.��


    ��I just need to lift the veil of lies, and what follows will naturally be a Conflict of desires.��


    Ashe asked, ��So, you��re saying you could ruin anyone��s life?��


    ��It depends on the situation. Different people have different levels of vulnerability. Besides, didn��t I mention that performing such tasks would lower the Firm��s rating? Anyone with a bit of ambition wouldn��t undertake these tasks,�� Annan exined. ��Not everyone has vulnerabilities. For instance, those on the ��Unrted Ranking List�� don��t have social connections that can be exploited.��


    ��Neers to the Gospel like you, who have only been here a few days, are like little insects that haven��t yet been caught in this web.��


    ��But the longer you live under the Gospel, the more you interact with others and express your desires, the deeper you��ll be entangled in thiswork of rtionships.��


    ��You will harm others quietly using the Gospel, and others will harm you in the same silent manner.��


    ��In fact, if you know nothing, you would be quite happy. Your life is on easy mode. The Gospel is constantly weaving a veil of lies for you, shielding you from the dirt of reality and letting you embrace the happiness of dreams. You can enjoy peace and asionally vent your darker thoughts, leading a rather vorful life.��


    Purple Moth looked at the rushing traffic beside her and softly said, ��With such a sophisticated social system, the Gospel reduces meaningless internal consumption in society. Plus, with the Ranking List as motivation, productivity has greatly advanced, and indicators of happiness like public security, resident satisfaction, and living standards have not decreased.��


    ��Sounds pretty good, doesn��t it?��


    Annan flicked his Amethyst Earring, ncing sideways at Ashe, ��Do you like our Gospel?��


    Ashe asked, ��What did Harvey and Igor think?��


    ��They didn��t respond directly, but Mr. Harvey seemed quite angry, while Mr. Bukin was overjoyed.��


    ��It��s normal. Harvey doesn��t like his life being controlled by others, while Igor always feels he can manipte anyone through rules����


    Annan then asked, ��What about you, Ashe? Do you detest this system or do you want to utilize it?��


    ��I��m not naive enough to judge this social system that has maintained the stability of the Gospel Kingdom for centuries based solely on your word,�� Ashe said. ��But you have certainly achieved your goal.��


    ��Oh?��


    ��I will do everything in my power to get the Divine Master��s Wish,�� Ashe said, looking up at the Inverted City. ��It��s not about changing anything; I just hope to have the means to prevent change.��


    If Ashe remained blissfully unaware of everything, he could continue living obliviously in the Gospel Kingdom. But having seen the intricate web woven by the Gospel, he could not passively ept his Destiny.


    Think about it, although the social systems of the Blood Moon Kingdom and the Gospel Kingdom have many differences, they are both designed to address one issue: when productivity is greatly developed, how to reduce the internal consumption among the societal gears.


    When everyone can sustain themselves with simplebor, the original Family System naturally disintegrates. Humans are selfish by nature, and cooperation goes against their instincts. In the past, due to theck of resources for survival, people were forced to band together to get through tough times. Moreover, since productivebor upied most of their time, there was little opportunity for the expression of desires.


    As productivity reaches a certain level, two problems arise: people have more leisure time and seek a better life; people can sustain themselves with minimal effort and do not need to rely on others.


    If these issues are not addressed, social development will stagnate, birth rates will gradually decline, and contradictions among Race, ss, and regions will be increasingly sharp, wasting societal energy on meaningless internal consumption.


    The Blood Moon Kingdom and the Gospel Kingdom offer twopletely different solutions.


    The Blood Moon Kingdom chooses to hit the elerator to the floor, not waiting for the Family System to disintegrate naturally, but abolishing it preemptively. All citizens start life as orphans, then promote consumerism, strictly prohibit all forms of discrimination, and utilize mechanisms like the Blood Moon Tribunal, Moon Sugar, and establishments like Mud Caf�� and Tea Cafe to channel public anger. As for reproduction, they simply purchase children with money.


    The societal progress in the Blood Moon Kingdom does not rely on themon folk; exceptionalmoners can ascend through normal channels to be part of the elite Blood Saint or Moonshadow groups, then contribute their light and warmth to the Research Institute and the Church, while the rest of the popce serves as fuel, sustaining a small number of immortals.


    In contrast, the Gospel Kingdom opts to mask its contradictions. If society were apletely random game of chaos, the Gospel would be its only solution. It regtes everyone��s desires and covers all contradictions with sophisticated lies, allowing everyone to live in a perceived paradise.


    The Gospel Ranking List further motivates progress, giving everyone something to look forward to. People ustomed to life��s easy mode, facing issues rted to childbirth, employment, and education, will heed the guidance of the Gospel, thus maintaining a virtuous cycle in society.


    It was throughparing Blood Moon and Gospel that Ashe truly understood the terrifying miracles��or rather, divine acts��that the Divine Master had imposed on the Kingdoms��


    The Blood Moon Sovereign created the ��Blood Moon Promotion System,�� a sustainable exploitation that does not resolve any societal contradictions but instead uses them to mask the exploitation by the Blood Saint and Moonshadow groups, relying only on a few elites to drive societal progress;


    The Omniscient Weaver, utilizing the absolute authority of the Gospel, forcibly suppresses and covers all societal contradictions, making the well-educated popce docile like sheep, with work, reproduction, and consumption all ounted for in the Gospel��s calctions!


    Compared to the earth-shattering destructive powers, these miracles that change the Destiny of every individual from the top down make one feel incredibly insignificant.


    ��I��m d you��ve finally decided to join my side,�� Annan said with a smile. ��Indeed,pared to vague temptations, a real and direct threat is what truly motivates you to willingly join my n.��


    Ashe nced at her, ��But Annan, by stirring up our greed, are you really doing yourself any favors? I won��t speak for myself, but people like Igor have never known the meaning of ��moderation��; they only understand ��monopoly.�� Or do you have that much faith in the Contract?��


    ��The only purpose of a contract is to be broken, but what reces it isn��t necessarily hostility; it could also be an alliance.��


    Annan extended her hand towards Ashe: ��Let��s cooperate with each other, each harboring our own agendas.��


    Ashe looked at her seriously and took her hand.


    ��Right, we agreed that once Iplete the task, you would help me add funds to the game����


    ��10,000 copper coins.��


    ��That won��t do. 10,000 copper coins might only buy a pass and a monthly card. I also need the big monthly card, the neer��s discount package, the limited-time package, and I have to buy the pass level package too, otherwise I can��t level up to 1000����

 Chapter 274: Direct Your Concerns Towards the Substitute

    Chapter 274: Direct Your Concerns Towards the Substitute


    May 10th, in the Gospel Kingdom, at the bathhouse of the Funeral Firm.


    It was 7 AM, and dawn had already broken. Ashe arrived in his swim trunks, hearing voices from the bathhouse. Upon entering, he found that someone was already upying the ce.


    Ssh!


    Ashe jumped in, creating a ssh of water. Igor, with a look of disdain, used his spirit to blow the droplets back, ��(*�����) Ashe, how old are you this year? Did you graduate from the senior ss of the Nursery?��


    On the other side, Harvey was lying on a massage lounger in the bath, smoking a Catnip Cigarette, with the water bubbling beneath him. The Necromancer had turned on the ceiling��s sunmps; warm, intense light bathed him, epitomizing the ultimate infort, as if to say, ��any ce can be a seaside retreat if you desire it.��


    Inparison to Ashe and Igor, Harvey seemed quite normal. His skin was dark, making him look like aborer, and his speech was straightforward. Though morally flexible, his desires were not high, fitting the type who goes with the flow.


    If Harvey hade to the Gospel Kingdom alone, he might have been picked up by some wealthy woman, doing housework by day and tomb raiding by night, leading a vorful life.


    Even considering his necrophilia and Sugar Addiction, neither harmed others, only affecting Corpses and himself, which upon reflection, might not be uneptable��


    Ashe abruptly sshed water on his face and sank deeper into the bath.This is bad, Ashe thought.


    Having been around this group for too long, even Harvey, who seemed less offensivepared to Igor and Annan, started to appear decent.


    ��What were you guys talking about just now?�� Ashe rxed in the bath, his stiff muscles aching in response to his attempts at appeasement. ��Igor, were you rmending another Shadow Drama?��


    ��I did, but you guys don��t watch them anyway. Why should I bother?�� Igor replied coldly. ��Thest one I rmended, ��The Redemption of the Wife,�� is a ssic from the Gospel Kingdom not to be missed in these past Ten Years.��


    ��It��s not that I don��t want to watch, but when do I have the time����


    ��Why don��t you just watch it at 32x speed?��


    ��If I had a gun in my hand right now, I��d shoot you dead and then ask why you didn��t dodge.��


    ��We were just discussing artistic creation,�� Harvey said, exhaling a wisp of pale green Catnip Smoke. ��How to properly sculpt a character.��


    Although Ashe found their topic a bit odd, he didn��t think too much about it and casually said, ��Then you��vee to the right person. Crafting characters is my forte. Listen carefully, for every word I say is a gem.��


    ��Oh? Were you a novelist before? Written any masterpieces? I read in my spare time, I might havee across your work,�� Igor sneered.


    ��I��m not a writer, but my upation requires even more character crafting than writing does,�� Ashe spoke confidently. ��Our business is all about creating characters to trick money out of kids.��


    Igor instinctively wanted to retort, but after a moment of thought, he nodded thoughtfully, ��Right, you were a Cult Leader before; you really are a professional.��


    Ashe thought Igor surely misunderstood the scope of a Cult Leader��s work, but he was toozy to exin and continued, ��Creating apelling character involves many dimensions: appearance, personality, abilities, background, and aspirations�� But it all boils down to two things: Sexual Function and Functionality.��


    Igor and Harvey blinked, evidently shocked by Ashe��s blunt truth.


    ��Strong beauties, mad beauties, haughty coldness, wealthy beauties�� These character images are deeply popr and resonate so well because they fulfill the two major needs of Sexual Function and Functionality. When you sculpt a character, you need to consider, does this character arouse your desires? Can this character alleviate your suffering? If the answer to both is yes, then you have a sessful character.��


    ��Whether this character bes a timeless ssic depends on a spark of inspiration and the course of history. You can��t force it.��


    As an operations nner for a mobile gamingpany, Ashe had not directly engaged in character creation but had attended internal training sessions and was well-versed in how character nning systematically extracted money from middle and high school students. While individual creation might asionally strike gold with a brilliant piece, the creation process at a mobile gamingpany resembled an industrial assembly line. It involved arranging andbining popr elements to cater to ��Sexual Function�� and ��Functionality��, therebypelling people to impulsively reach for their wallets.


    Harvey seemed greatly inspired by the conversation. He pinched off his Catnip Cigarette and climbed out of the bath, casually grabbing a towel from the side to wrap around himself: ��As expected from a former Cult Leader, you��re indeed the right person for this kind of job. I can��t contain my inspiration anymore; I��m heading back to my room to create.��


    Watching Harvey rush off, Ashe scratched his head: ��Strange, Harvey doesn��t seem like the type who enjoys writing novels����


    Igor also exited the bath, shaking his long hair dripping with water, and casually draped a towel around himself. He slicked back his wet bangs with his hand and nced at Ashe.


    ��Who told you he writes novels?��


    Ashe stiffened, suddenly realizing a possibility. He stared intently at Igor: ��He��s asking about character crafting techniques to use them on virtual characters, isn��t he?��


    Igor remained silent, looking at him briefly before walking out of the bathhouse.


    Ashe grew anxious: ��It��s for virtual characters, right!?��


    Now alone in the bathhouse, the sun slowly rose, ushering in a new day in Azura, with its warm rays reflecting into the water.


    Ashe let the buoyancy lift his body, floating on the water��s surface like a corpse.


    Three days earlier, when Ashe and Annan had returned early in the morning, they had just seen Igor and Harveying off work from the Virtual Realm, sitting in the living room as if waiting for his return.


    Feeling a bit guilty for not buying any gifts during his outing, Ashe invited them to join him in the bathhouse, hoping to divert attention by discussing the social system of the Gospel.


    However, this seemed to set a precedent. For the next three days, after clocking out from their Exploration in the Virtual Realm, they would soak in the bathhouse and casually chat. This allowed Ashe to quickly realize that their exploration skills in the Virtual Realm were not inferior to his��they usually arrived after dawn, indicating that each of them was capable of exploring the Time Continent for a full six hours.


    Although they had neither maps nor sports cars, their unique methods of exploration seemed to match Ashe��s in duration.


    Ashe even suspected that they had their own means of transportation; otherwise, at least half of their Soul Energy would be consumed in traveling, making it impossible to endure for six hours��a mere three hours would have drained them.


    Harvey��s transportation was easy to guess: he was either riding a skeletal horse or a skeleton man, or perhaps even improvising by riding a ying Fish-Dragon made of bones on the spot. Igor was harder to predict. Could it be that his Mind Faction was powerful enough to hypnotize Intelligent Creatures to serve as his mounts?


    That wasn��t right. Ashe recalled a conversation from the previous day in the bath, where he had asked Igor if he had ever used Mind Miracles for any indecent acts. Igor had responded, ��First off, the things you��re imagining��I can indeed do them. But even without miracles, I��ve been capable of that for a long time and am quite bored of it; moreover, Ashe, you shook the water in your head and asked, ��Since you can hypnotize others, why not hypnotize yourself?����


    ��Hypnotizing oneself is much simpler and more effective. You can set the plot, the characters, the content��anything you like. In reality, you might be limited by physical functions, but in illusions, you can be as bold as you want�� In fact, Mind Sorcerers rarely directly hypnotize others; instead, they usenguage and gestures as subtle cues to guide others to the conclusions they desire.��


    ��Only a mediocre Mind Sorcerer would use miracles to achieve their goals. Most of the time, the subject of a Mind Sorcerer��s hypnosis is themselves.��


    ��Mind Faction is not about warping others, but about sculpting oneself.��


    So, it��s highly likely that Igor is not hypnotizing Knowledge Creatures, but rather hypnotizing himself to believe that ��walking is not tiring at all!��


    In fact, this is the normal encounter for sorcerers Exploring the Virtual Realm: Sorcerers from different factions use different methods to mitigate the adverse factors in the Virtual Realm.


    Indeed, there��s no way around the Sea of Knowledge; everyone starts off inexperienced and must struggle through it. However, once reaching the Time Continent, with a bit of factional foundation, they can begin to mitigate the environmental disadvantages.


    This is actually a form of selection��sorcerers who cannot conquer their environment are considered failures within the sorcerer evolutionary system.


    In a sense, Ashe and his group, driving through the Reverse Golden Rain, have been spoiled,pletely slipping through the cracks of the sorcerer evolutionary system. Without properly cultivating the ability to adapt to unfamiliar environments, they will eventually pay the price elsewhere.


    Ashe and the others are aware of this, but they have no intention of remedying it��for now, they think they might as well dream big, perhaps they��ll never have to pay a price?


    With this thought, Ashe twisted his finger ring to summon the Gospel, flipping to the page of the Sorcerer Handbook, which immediately popped up information.


    ��Growth Report for Death Maniac Swordswoman from May 3rd to May 9th��


    ��Swordsmanship Faction: Silver �� Gold��


    ��Radiance Magic Faction: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Water Faction: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Mind Faction: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Arcane Energy: Gold Virtual Wing �� Gold One Feather��


    ��Cultivation Evaluation: Grade A!��


    ��As a result of receiving a Grade A evaluation, the Death Maniac Swordswoman has received an upational Enhancement from the Sorcerer Handbook: Frenzy Dancer �� Genocide Gold Sorcerer!��


    ��Genocide Gold Sorcerer upational Traits: Increases damage to group Knowledge Creatures by 10%.��


    ��Assessment Mission ��Frenzy Dance�� (10,000 shes)pleted! Frenzy Dancer upational Traits permanently solidified!��


    ��Frenzy Dancer (Permanent upation): Attacking the same target increases attack speed by 2%, umting up to 5 times, with the effect immediately nullified upon switching targets.��


    The main content of their Exploration in the Virtual Realm these past two days has been helping the Swordswomanplete her Assessment Mission. Fortunately, the Swordswoman acquired a new Miracle, ��Blood Flower Water Moon��, which not only offers high instantaneous output but also allows stacking dozens of effective shes with each activation. If group creatures are gathered together, it can instantly execute hundreds of effective shes.


    Even so, in the past two days, Ashe and his group raided the homes of several White Velocidragons, Fierce Wolf Dragons, and Migratory Bird Dragons. The Swordswoman��s new upation, ��Genocide Gold Sorcerer��, is clearly rted to this.


    The essence materials obtained solely from raiding and annihting these creatures were enough to feed the Swordswoman��s ��Vibration Sword�� and ��Moon Silk�� spirit, as well as the ck-and-White Witch��s ��Water Thread�� and ��w�� spirit to Two Wings.


    Ashe nced at the Swordswoman��s interface and indeed, her upation had changed to ��Genocide Gold Sorcerer/Frenzy Dancer.�� Her Swordsmanship faction had advanced from Silver to Gold, but the Cultivation Evaluation was only Grade A. It seemed that only during the promotion of arcane energy could one receive a Grade S evaluation.


    This made sense; if Grade S were easy to achieve and triggered upational assessment missions frequently, wouldn��t every Operator have a myriad of upationster on?


    Ashe even imagined an introduction: ��Standing before you is the Storm��s Frenzy Dancer, the White me atop the grave, the lord of swords wielding the scepter of death, the ying Fish-Dragon Genocide�� the Death Maniac Swordswoman with twenty-three upations!��


    While there were no surprises, the Swordswoman��s growth didn��t disappoint Ashe. However, when Ashe opened the ck-and-White Witch��s Growth Report, his good mood for the day ended.


    ��Growth Report for the ck-and-White Witch from May 3rd to May 9th��


    ��Mind Faction: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Fist and w Faction: Gold �� Gold��


    ��Time Faction: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Water Faction: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Arcane Energy: Gold One Feather �� Gold Two Feathers��


    ��Cultivation Evaluation: Grade B!��


    ��Due to receiving a Grade B evaluation, the ck-and-White Witch has received an upational Enhancement from the Sorcerer Handbook: Genocide Follower!��


    ��Genocide Follower: Increases damage to group Knowledge Creatures by 5%.��


    A Grade B evaluation?


    This was the first time Ashe had received such an evaluation��it felt like a p in his face, not just the ck-and-White Witch��s!


    However, Ashe quickly cooled down, immersed in water. Previously, the Swordswoman had started from scratch, a nk te, so her rapid advancement naturally led to higher evaluations. But the Witch had started with Two Wings, her main faction already at Gold Tier, and several sub-factions established. It was impossible to expect significant short-term advancements, not to mention she was under the ��Curse of the Bronze Dragon,�� unable to undergo regr training, limited only to entertainment each day.


    If the Swordswoman hadn��t advanced her Swordsmanship faction to Gold Tier this week, she likely would have also received a Grade B.


    This meant that starting next week, if the Operators didn��t achieve significant ��arcane energy promotion�� or ��faction advancement to Gold Tier,�� they would probably only receive a Grade B or even C evaluation.


    Should I do a card draw? Ashe sighed as he looked over his savings.


    These days, the ie from spirits for Ashe and his team wasn��t much. They mostly gathered materials to feed the spirits. Additionally, after Ashe��s promotion to Two Wings, the recycling price for a One Wing spirit became 5 points, and for a Two Wing spirit, it was 10 points. After a week of umtion, he had only 211 points, still a distance from the next first-time double bonus of 328.


    As for this week��s cultivation strategy, it was business as usual: the Witch would continue with her entertainment, and the Swordswoman would continue with training�� Ashe paused, remembering he had promised the Swordswoman some entertainment activities.


    The Swordswoman had three Action Points, with two points required for each entertainment session. And since she had already yed, Ashe wouldn��t be so heartless as to push her back into training.


    Mainly because the effectiveness of training after entertainment wouldn��t be great, simr to ying games on your phone while in the restroom and then going back to work, your mind still lingering on how you could have yed better.


    So, it would be entertainment plus rest, letting the Swordswoman enjoy a bit of the rose-colored campus life.


    So, which day should the Swordswoman take off?


    Ashe thought about it and decided to schedule Rose Day for tomorrow, the 11th.


    He initially wanted to set it for today, but today was a bit special. To avoid any idents, it was better to let the Swordswoman continue her regr school and training schedule.


    After setting the cultivation strategy, Ashe went back to his room to change clothes. When he came out, he found everyone gathered in the living room, and it didn��t look like they were just having breakfast.


    ��Ashe, you��re just in time,�� Igor said, ��Here��s a Single Choice Question for you.��


    ��Do you prefer this?�� Igor handed over a potion bottle filled with a dreamlike pink liquid.


    ��Or do you prefer this?�� Lise held up a blood-stained mace.


    ��Or maybe this?�� Annan twirled a pair of silver handcuffs.


    Handcuffs + mace + potion = ?


    Ashe��s mind raced, quickly activating his spirit to summon a Substitute. The Substitute took a battle stance, ready to face any danger for Ashe��


    ��Direct any grievances at the Substitute, not me!��


    Substitute: ��

 Chapter 275: Time Off

    Chapter 275: Time Off


    The misunderstanding was quickly resolved. Igor and his group didn��t mean any harm. Nheless, Ashe had administered some sedatives to the Substitute, conducting experiments while listening to their exnations.


    ��Seven Days of Knowing One��s Destiny?��


    The Butler Youth nodded: ��You might not have this custom in the Blood Moon Kingdom, where a baby, seven days after birth, is allowed to pick their favorite item from a collection. This chosen item is called ��Life Choice.�� It signifies that the child��s destiny will follow this selection.��


    ��So, based on the different Life Choices picked, one could predict the future direction of the baby��s life?�� Ashemented, ��That sounds superstitious, not at all like something a Sorcerer would do����


    ��It��s indeed just a beautiful blessing bestowed upon children hundreds of years ago. Over time, it has continued as a custom, not as a Procedure or Ritual Track,�� Annan exined. ��After all, with the existence of the Ranking List, parents hope their children make it onto the list, eager for their talents to be revealed early.��


    ��But����


    ��While it��s not a Procedure or Ritual Track, it doesn��t mean the customcks significance,�� Annan continued. ��The future of society is a vast chaotic system. Compared to ��certain�� miracles, the ��uncertain�� meanings can have a deeper impact. ording to years of research by the Dn Family, intangible factors like ��wishes,�� ��meanings,�� and ��acknowledgment�� y significant roles during the Weaving Festival.��


    ��These wishes, which can��t take immediate effect, are heard by the Gospel. Life isn��tprised of miracles every second, but every second is meaningful.��


    ��Plus,�� Annan shrugged, ��if everyone else has a Life Choice, why shouldn��t you?��Hmm, it��s like including in your resume that ��My strengths are being helpful, team-oriented, and having strong social skills; my weakness is being overly meticulous, which might impact my work.�� Although it��s likely no one believes these clich��s, if you write them and others don��t, you might just get hired because of that.


    Ashe understood, but was still puzzled: ��But isn��t this custom meant for infants just seven days old? You can count Lise out, but do I really look that young?��


    ��We have indeed just been born for seven days,�� the Necromancer said, examining a Silver scalpel. ��Or rather, we��ve just arrived in this world seven days ago.��


    ��Is that even possible?��


    Ashe was stunned. They had changed the Map, and even the age cooldown was refreshed?


    ��The Gospel has existed for over a thousand years, perhaps even longer,�� Annan exined. ��In the time scale of the Gospel, whether you��re 25 years and seven days old or just 1 year and 7 days old doesn��t make much of a difference.��


    ��Right,�� Igor added. ��And there are people in the world who are 25 years old but mentally just like newborns. The Gospel certainly won��t discriminate against you, Ashe.��


    Ashe punched the already dizzy Substitute, nced at the various torture instruments on the table, and asked, ��So after we choose, is there a chance we might make it onto today��s first future Ranking?��


    ��How could that be possible.�� Annan shook his head. ��No one can know what the first Ranking List will be in advance, not even me. I have to use the first List to guess the subsequent ones. Holding the ��Seven Days of Knowing One��s Destiny�� is just a gamble, who knows, maybe it will coincide perfectly with the desires of the Gospel?��


    ��It sounds like we��re matchmaking with the Gospel���� Ashe picked up a transparent ss needle. ��But why are there so many�� um, torture instruments?��


    ��As a Firm, isn��t it normal to have so many instruments?�� Annan shrugged. ��If you don��t want to pick an instrument, then don��t. Just choose something you like. Besides, don��t be too utilitarian; after all, no one knows what the first Ranking List will be. Only by choosing something you truly like will your voice be loud enough for the Gospel to hear.��


    ��Also, when you choose your Life Choice item, it��s best to imbue the item with some good wishes. Normally, this step is done by parents, like ��this child chose a dagger that will never be discovered after killing someone����it��s a further reinforcement of a wish and a very meaningful step.��


    ��Moreover, ording to intelligence collected by the Dn Family, some rewards during the Weaving Festival are custom-tailored based on your Life Choice. If you make a wish for your Life Choice, it might just influence the Ranking List��s rewards for you.��


    Ashe suddenly realized an issue: ��Wait, why did you make me choose from handcuffs, spiked clubs, and love potions earlier?��


    ��Because we thought they��d suit you well,�� the three said in unison.


    ��Isn��t that a personal attack?�� Ashe turned to the Necromancer. ��At least you, Harvey, have the sense not to mess around with them����


    Then he saw Harvey holding a whip.


    ��Harvey, I didn��t expect you to be interested in that����


    ��How could I? Whips are useful for living people, and I��m not interested in the living. I just think a whip suits you because����


    ��Stop, I��m not interested in your stereotyped impressions of me.�� Ashe looked at the workers: ��So what Life Choice did you guys make?��


    Lise held up a small mirror: ��The Little Magic Mirror that always reflects the most beautiful state of its holder!��


    ��Really!?�� Ashe took it yfully and looked at it: ��Nope, I still look the same, just a regr mirror.��


    Igormented, ��Just a guess, but maybe it��s not the mirror that��s ordinary, but you?��


    ��Stupid dad, give it back to me!�� Lise was very angry, kicking Ashe��s knee and snatching the mirror back while Ashe was bent over.


    ��I chose this,�� Igor said, shaking a pen in his hand. ��A pen that grips the reader��s attention no matter what it writes.��


    ��Eh?�� Ashe blinked.


    ��Why do you look so surprised?��


    ��I thought you��d want a pen that ��makes whatever you writee true�� or ��makes whatever you write believable������


    Igor wagged his finger: ��For someone like me, a social engineering Schr, it��s not about distorting reality or gaining others�� trust, but about attention��once I can capture your attention, I can control your Destiny.��


    Ashe looked at Harvey, the Necromancer, who pulled out a box simr to a sewing kit with needles and thread��Heaven knows why the Gospel Kingdom would have such a thing. Given the Gospel��s productivity, shouldn��t ordinary people here be wearing a new set of clothes every day, with no need to wash or mend them?


    ��I chose����


    ��Stop, I didn��t ask you,�� Ashe said with his arms crossed, indicating his refusal. ��I don��t want to hear about the special uses of sewing needles.��


    ��It��s not a sewing needle����


    ��Then I want to hear it even less.��


    Annan and Banjeet, without a doubt, didn��t need to choose; they had made their choices at birth.


    Ashe nced over the items on the table and shook his head.


    ��Can I choose something else?��


    ��What else?��


    Ashe went back to his bedroom and then came out wearing a Dark Red Trench Coat and a mask: ��I don��t like anything on the table; I want to choose these two as my Life Choices.��


    He pointed at the Dark Red Trench Coat: ��This is a coat that can ward off all harm����


    Annan reminded him, ��Don��t be so utilitarian. Do you think this is a game? Would your parents wish for something like this?��


    Ashe recalled his parents�� way of thinking and said earnestly, ��This is a terrifying trench coat that will make everyone afraid to bully me.��


    Annan was about to say something else but was patted on the shoulder by Igor.


    The Con Artist pointed at himself, Harvey, and Ashe, and Annan immediately understood his point��right, they were all orphans from the Blood Moon Kingdom; how would they know what parental love is?


    When you want to me others, think about how they might not have parents.


    With this thought, Annan��s gaze towards Ashe was filled with tolerance.


    Ashe pointed at the mask and said, ��This is a�� um�� mask that will make everyone like me?��


    ��The function doesn��t quite match, does it?�� Harveymented. ��Although you do look better with your face covered, the mask has nothing to do with charm.��


    Harvey��s words often left Ashe puzzled, such as this phrase ��you look better with your face covered.�� If Igor, Lise, or even Annan had said it, it would definitely be a personal attack, buting from Harvey, Ashe couldn��t quite tell if it was meant as apliment or an insult.


    But he did have a point, and after thinking it over, Ashe said, ��Then this is a mask that will give me an air of mystery.��


    ��Why does dad get to have two Life Choices!?�� Lise protested. ��I want two as well!��


    ��But if you choose two, the power of the wish might be diluted,�� Annan said. ��And the Gospel might pick and choose, only rewarding one true Life Choice.��


    Lise thought about it: ��Then never mind, I still want the Magic Mirror.��


    ��We��ve all made our choices, so when is the first Ranking Listing out?�� Ashe asked. ��It��s almost breakfast time. Could the Gospel be on leave?��


    ��No,�� Annan shrugged, ��but it won��t be on time either. If it were truly punctual, the first future Ranking should have been released at midnightst night.��


    ��Then why����


    ��Because today isn��t over yet.��


    Butler Youth Banjeet raised his hand, signaling everyone to look at him: ��How should I put this�� If the Weaving Festival were a job, then the Gospel would be the creator who submits their work at the veryst second.��


    ��These are all our guesses,�� Annan added. ��When ites to Weaving the Future, the closer we get to the future, the more precise the weaving bes. Therefore, although the Weaving Festival announces the first Ranking List on the 10th, a list woven at 00:00:00 is inevitably less urate than one woven at 23:59:59.��


    ��In the history of the Weaving Festival, the vast majority of Ranking Lists are published at the veryst second of the day. Only 25% are released right at midnight, and another 10% are released at random times during the day, without any discernible pattern.��


    ��That��s why I didn��t keep you all up until midnightst night, because for the past several editions of the Weaving Festival, the first Ranking List has always been released at thest second,�� Annan flicked his earring. ��But tonight, you all have to wait until midnight to see the first future Ranking before you can go back to your rooms.��


    Ashe asked, ��Can��t we just look at it tomorrow morning? Do we have to chase the update?��


    ��No,�� Annan shook his head. ��Although it��s unlikely, if you��re either very lucky or very unlucky�� something might happen. However, the likelihood of something happening with the first Ranking List is slim; our concern is more about the second Ranking List in ten days.��


    Waiting until midnight��


    Ashe��s scheduled time to start Exploring the Virtual Realm with his team was at 11 PM, so asking for a leave at midnight seemed a waste, but he couldn��t just skip it either.


    After finishing breakfast, Ashe hurried back to his bedroom, summoned the Gospel, opened the game page, and checked if there was any way to dy the team assembly time.


    ��Exploration in Virtual Realm�� �C ��Team Composition,�� Ashe carefully reviewed and discovered a detail��every time he selected ��Start Action,�� secondary options like ��Depart Immediately�� and ��Discuss Further�� would pop up.


    Previously, Ashe thought ��Discuss Further�� meant cancel, but this time, clicking it brought up ��Adjust Action Time�� and ��Change Team Composition.��


    Choosing ��Adjust Action Time,�� Ashe found he could shift the action time from 11 PM to 12:30 AM, but this required the agreement of the Operators.


    ��Observer proposal: Postpone tonight��s Exploration in Virtual Realm by 90 minutes.��


    Meanwhile, Lise also returned to her room, speaking to the newly acquired Little Magic Mirror, ��Calling Observer! Calling Observer! Can we dy tonight��s exploration by an hour? Please convey this to the Swordswoman.��


    ��No, wait!�� Lise shook her head, switching to negotiating with Deya: ��Can we dy it by 90 minutes? Tonight, we need to watch the Gospel Ranking List, which might take a good fifteen minutes.��


    After a brief silence, both Ashe and Deya received the answers they were hoping for��


    ��Swordswoman agrees, Witch agrees.��


    ��Since you beg so humbly, I will mercifully approve.��


    In another Kingdom, Sonya, who had just gotten up and was doing her skincare routine, looked at the letter on her desk with a subtle expression.


    ��Dear Swordswoman,��


    ��The great Observer has kept his promise. Tomorrow you will have a full day of Entertainment and Rest with no Training.��


    ��But in return, your training tonight will be extended by 90 minutes, and the time for your Exploration in Virtual Realm will also be dyed by 90 minutes.��


    ����I usually only train for two hours anyway����


    The president of the Stretching ws Club really wanted to be happy, but her intelligence wouldn��t allow it: ��What is this? Comp time? How is this any different from not having a day off at all!��

 Chapter 276: Anonymous

    Chapter 276: Anonymous


    At 11:46 PM on May 11th, time was running out for the Gospel to finish its homework.


    All members of the Funeral Firm gathered in the living room, quietly waiting for the Gospel to turn in its first set of answers.


    ��Dad, what is that outside?��


    Ashe squinted his eyes towards the giant Holographic Screen erected in the city center. Mysteriously, as he focused, his vision suddenly sharpened, allowing him to clearly see the screen even from several kilometers away.


    ��That��s the city announcement Holographic Screen.��


    Annan nestled in a red leather armchair, dressed in pink and purple pajamas and wearing a sleep cap, slowly sipping hot chocte milk like a kitten. ��It��s been enhanced with the ��Focus�� Miracle so that no matter the distance, as long as you look at it, you can clearly see its contents. It��s only used for major holidays.��


    ��Given that it��s the Weaving Festival, which only happens every Fifty Years, there��s no doubt it��s a major holiday.��


    The impably dressed Butler, Banjeet,mented, ��This is actually a remnant of an older era. Fifty years ago, not everyone could afford their own Gospel, and there were even ��Shared Gospels�� and ��Gospel Kiosks���� That��s why these city-wide Holographic Screens came into existence, and over decades, they became a tradition. But in reality, given the current proliferation of Gospel devices, there��s no longer any need for these city screens.��


    ��I quite like these outdated and redundant things; they��re filled with historical sediment,�� said Igor, sitting by the dining table, swirling the ice in his ss. ��The most endearing and meaningful aspect of history is precisely that it is outdated and redundant.��Harvey sat in the farthest corner, quietly smoking a Catnip Cigarette, seemingly ostracized. However, he was next to a coffin, so it seemed it was he and the coffin that were excluding everyone else in the room.


    Ashe moved to another red leather armchair. Lise also wanted to sit, but couldn��t squeeze past him, so she reluctantly settled beside the dining table instead.


    Ashe looked around and asked, ��Why are both of you dressed in formal wear?��


    Ashe, Lise, and Annan were all in pajamas, while Banjeet was dressed in his butler��s uniform. In fact, Ashe and the others had never seen Banjeet without his butler��s uniform. However, Harvey and Igor were fully dressed, even wearing their boots�� noteworthy since they had been wearing slippers the previous days, and Igor had even stopped wearing slippers after noticing the floors were clean.


    ��The Revtion spirit issued a warning to me,�� Igor said. ��It��s better to be safe than sorry.��


    ��Same here,�� Harvey added. ��When I was lost in a haze from smoking at noon, losing track of time, I saw Sanjiel, Linda, Ackley, and Sushibe urging me to run away����


    ��Question!�� Ashe raised his hand. ��Are you having a split personality?��


    ��No, those were my dear friends and brothers����


    ��Got it, they��re dead.�� Ashe said. ��So, does that mean something might happen tonight? Should we����


    ��Don��t rush,�� Annan was the calmest. ��This phenomenon is also recorded by the Dn Family. Every time the Weaving Festival Ranking List is released, both the Prophecy Faction and the Destiny Faction are affected, and the answers they get are either very good or very bad. Today, I made three prophecies; two celebrated good fortunesing my way, and one warned me to leave immediately or disaster would strike.��


    Given that the locals said so, Ashe naturally believed it. However, Harvey and Igor showed no intention of changing their clothes��perhaps out ofziness, or maybe they trusted their own judgment more.


    Suddenly, Ashe summoned his Gospel and asked, ��Speaking of which, does checking the future Ranking still cost Points?��


    ��During these 100 days, no, it doesn��t,�� Annan replied. ��After the Weaving Festival, if you want to check past future Rankings, you will need to use Points. When the first Ranking List is woven, our Gospels will disy a bookmark, reminding you to observe who will be the prominent figures over the next fifty years.��


    ��Speaking of which, is there a way to appear on the Ranking anonymously?��


    Ashe suddenly recalled a ssic scenario from online gaming novels: ��If we appear on the Ranking, it will attract attention. Wouldn��t it work to be anonymous?��


    ��Sorry, that��s not possible,�� Banjeet shook his head. ��Although we still don��t know why the Omniscient Weaver holds the Weaving Festival��perhaps to control the future, perhaps to inspire the people��whatever the reason, the Weaving Festival is definitely not meant to serve the Echoers.��


    ��Echoers would certainly prefer to be anonymous on the Ranking List, but Echoers are just tools for disy at the Weaving Festival. The Gospel would never consider the wishes of Echoers.��


    ��However,�� Annan suddenly said, ��there is indeed a Ranking where anonymity is possible.��


    Banjeet was briefly startled, then realized what she was talking about: ��That��s an exception among exceptions, meaningless����


    Igor, keenly sensing a secret, asked, ��What are you talking about?��


    ��Among the thousands of Gospel Ranking Lists, there��s only one where everyone is listed anonymously,�� Annan exined. ��But being on that list isn��t a good thing; there aren��t even any Points rewards.��


    ��Is it the criminals�� list?�� Ashe inquired.


    ��The ughter Ranking is one of the few Ranking Lists that criminals can enter. It��s highlypetitive, and the rewards are richer than ordinary lists, but the cost is that it��s easier to get caught by the Red Caps,�� Annan shook his head. ��But I��m talking about the ��Unrted Ranking,�� which offers only losses, with no rewards at all.��


    ��Unrted���� Lise murmured, sounding sympathetic.


    Banjeet added, ��The ��Unrted Ranking�� is the strangest of all the Gospel��s lists. There��s only one criterion to be on it: being unrted.��


    ��People who are forgotten by society, people who are needed by no one, people who are cared about by no one, and even those who don��t care about themselves, end up on this list. Moreover, the information about those who are listed is not known to others, only the listed individuals themselves know.��


    ��Typically, those who are listed are minors under 17 years old, with no adults included.��


    ��Why is that?�� Igor asked. ��Because they be needed by someone once they are adults?��


    ��Because they don��t live to be adults.��


    The living room fell into a brief silence before Harvey exhaled a ring of smoke. ��Why? What happened to them?��


    ��No one knows,�� Banjeet replied. ��All we can see from the Ranking List is that names on the Unrted Ranking suddenly disappear one day.��


    Ashe suggested, ��Maybe they became needed by someone����


    ��Even though the Gospel obscures their specific information, it doesn��t stop us from finding out why Unrted individuals are removed from the list,�� Annan said. ��Only a very few are removed because they ��no longer meet the listing criteria.�� Most are removed because they ��are no longer in the Kingdom of the Gospel.����


    No longer in the Kingdom of the Gospel��where did they go?


    Certainly, they couldn��t have left the Kingdom of the Gospel on their own��Ashe and others who have experienced leaving the country understand how perilous it is to shuttle between two kingdoms.


    Leaving one��s nativend to start anew in apletely different society and culture is akin to transmigration, not to mention that many kingdoms obliterate outsiders to prevent invasions, as is the case during the Blood Moon and also in the Gospel.


    Thus, the most likely reason for Unrted individuals being removed from the list is that the Gospel has deemed them societal waste and granted them a Life Restart package.


    ��Perhaps the Omniscient Weaver has taken all the Unrted to heaven to enjoy blessings,�� Annan said calmly.


    ��Or maybe they��ve fallen into hell,�� Igor added coldly. ��It��s cruel. What kind of feelings must brew inside the tender hearts of the Unrted when they hear the Gospel proiming them as the most unloved children in the world?��


    ��I thought you, Mr. Bukin, were a proponent of social Darwinism,�� Annan said, somewhat surprised. ��Supporting the natural elimination of those who cannot survive.��


    ��I do support the natural elimination of the weak, but I don��t support a god sitting high above passing judgment on the weak,�� Igor stated. ��Even if what lies ahead is hell, one should walk there on their own, not be thrown down by a god.��


    Annan remarked, ��But don��t you think the Unrted mightck the courage to end their own lives? If they are listed, it means they have already taken 99 steps, and the Gospel merely pushes them to take thest one.��


    ��Indeed,�� Ashe agreed. ��Given the criteria for being listed as Unrted, they probably don��t want to live anymore. It��s like they��re writing a horribly disorganized essay, and the Gospel is just putting a poor ending to it, which might actually be a relief for them.��


    ��However, the fact that they haven��t chosen to end their lives suggests that deep down, they still hope to write a beautiful chapter ahead. With such great power, the Gospel, acting as their editor, doesn��t need to rush them into finishing their story prematurely.��


    ��The power of a miracle isn��t meant to destroy the weak but to forge the strong,�� Harvey added calmly. ��Simrly, the Necromancy Faction isn��t about umting death but about elevating life.��

 Chapter 277: The Eternal Journey

    Chapter 277: The Eternal Journey


    Lise watched them, her beautiful,rge eyes sparkling and glowing.


    Ashe also found it strange that these two death row inmates could possess such a high moral awareness, but upon reflection, it made sense��even though they were indeed guilty of heinous crimes including murder and arson, they had received aplete Blood Moon education during their childhood at the Nursery.


    The most important aspects of Blood Moon education are ��supremacy of human rights�� and ��racial equality��. It��s precisely because of this focus on human rights that the Blood Moon Tribunal has be so popr�� for the audience, ��death�� is merely a byproduct of the tribunal. Their greatest pleasurees from ��trampling on the prisoners�� human rights��.


    Even if Igor and Harvey scorn it, deep down, they acknowledge the concept of ��human rights��; they just believe that the Blood Moon Kingdom has not yet reached a stage where it can respect everyone��s rights.


    Had they arrived in a darker, more brutal realm, they would never have questioned the ��elimination of the Unrted�� system. It��s like arriving at a foul-smelling cesspit and not being surprised to find flies and cockroaches.


    But arriving in the Gospel Kingdom, where the cultural level is even higher than in the Blood Moon Kingdom, they find an elimination system even more primitive than that of the Blood Moon, hence their repeated shaking of their heads.


    Even the death row inmates of the Blood Moon find it uneptable.


    ����Although there are disagreements, I��m d your moral baseline is a bit higher than I imagined.��


    Though it was apliment, it was clear that Annan was not impressed by their rhetoric, much like someone observing ancient people clinging to outdated feudal remnants: ��Now, it��s about time.��It was 58 minutes past the hour, with at most one minute left before the release of the first Ranking List. Everyone couldn��t help but feel nervous, including Banjeet and Annan��for Annan, this was her first experience of the Weaving Festival.


    Although it was Banjeet��s second time, hisst experience was fifty years ago, and this was likely thest Weaving Festival he would ever witness in his life.


    As the time reached 23:59:59, everyone��s Gospels sprouted a glowing bookmark.


    At the same time, the city center��s Holographic Screen burst into dazzling rainbow lights!


    The Weaving Festival, had begun!


    Blood Moon Kingdom, Affiliated Hospital of Kaimon College.


    ��If you could possess greater power, so mighty that the weak cannot ignore you����


    ��If you could possess deeper wisdom, so profound that stupidity cannot deceive you����


    ��If you could possess stronger health, so robust that aging cannot harm you����


    ��If you could possess moresting happiness, so enduring that sorrow cannot catch up to you����


    The doll girl whispered softly in Bewitcher��s ear, ��Would you then be able to achieve eternal peace of mind?��


    Freya looked confused, her eyes vacant as she murmured softly, ��If I had power, wisdom, health, and happiness, I could achieve eternal peace of mind����


    ��Yes, peace of mind, you would have no worries, no sorrows; the sun would rotate for you, the world would revolve around you, the pirs would be your support, constructing a world exclusively for you����


    ��Pirs����


    ��So���� Selina��s eyes grew brighter, but her voice became softer, ��Please embrace me, and I will take you to meet the pirs����


    ��But I already have pirs.��


    ��Ah?�� Selina was taken aback.


    ��And I don��t need peace of mind.�� Freya��s expression remained nk, but her eyes slowly brightened, ��It��s this unease, this nervousness, that makes me so look forward to the future reunion�� Huh? What��s happening to me?��


    ��Freya, you must be very tiredtely,�� Selina said sweetly, ��You were nodding off just now. Do you want to sleep here for a while?��


    ��No need, no need.�� Freya rubbed her temples, ��I can��t believe I was so tired that I fell asleep? I��ll recover quickly once I go back to the Virtual Realm�� So, I��ll head back first?��


    ��Mhm, goodbye, sister!��


    Watching Bewitcher leave the hospital room, Selina��s expression gradually darkened.


    This was her third attempt at Preaching to Freya and failing. As Eternal Cmity, this was truly the first time she had experienced such humiliation.


    If it had been earlier, Selina would have already had other believers kill Freya and simply switched to another for Preaching. But here, the doll girl could no longer find any other puppets.


    Of course, there��s no need to mention the nominal Guardian Gerard, a Tri-wings Sanctuary Sorcerer. Even Selina at her peak would have had a hard time Preaching to him. Then there��s the lead Medic, Sivirin, but the problem is that this female doctor is also of the sacred bloodline.


    After brief interactions, Selina realized that these members of the sacred bloodline essentiallycked Souls, or rather, their Souls were dispersed throughout their blood. While this Soul defect impacts their ability to absorb arcane energy in the Virtual Realm, it also has a positive effect��aside from having longer Soul lifespans, those without normal Souls from the sacred bloodline have high resistance to any mental enchantment.


    Imagine a regr person��s body as a water tank and the Soul as the water. Mind Miracle would be like pouring paint to contaminate the water. In contrast, the body of someone from the sacred bloodline is like mud, with the Soul��s water already seeped into the soil. Even if paint is thrown over it, it would only contaminate the surface water without affecting the overall.


    Forget the Four Pirs; the sacred bloodline likely has no faith even in the Blood Moon Sovereign. They only revere the Divine Master but never blindly follow. This isn��t because they are all rebellious by nature, but rather it is determined by the essence of their Souls. A defective Soul cannot foster radiant belief.


    Normally, nurses also take care of patients, but Sivirin seems to take this case very seriously, sending nurses who are also from the sacred bloodline, which made Selina quite frustrated.


    Help, I��m surrounded by the sacred bloodline!


    Therefore, Selina��s only Breakthrough point was the college student Freya, who asionally visited her. However, Freya was like a fortress, specializing in the Mind Faction, which also happened to grant her resistance to mental enchantment.


    More importantly, her mental state was incredibly healthy!


    This was truly strange.


    Among all the people Selina had interacted with, only Freya and Sivirin had healthy mental states. Others, including passing patients, nurses, Freya��s friends, and the Sanctuary Sorcerer Gerard, all had severe psychological issues.


    In this group of almost madmen, only Bewitcher and the Medic remained unblemished by the muck, perfectly normal.


    Selina��s failure to breach Freya��s mental barriers three times in a row clearly indicated that Freya had fully embraced her life. She neither resented others nor aimed unrealistically high, having detailed ns and firm aspirations for the future.


    Such a person does not need the Four Pirs; she is capable of supporting her own world.


    Each time Selina thought of this, the doll girl felt somewhat deted.


    After investigating the Blood Moon Kingdom, Selina thought that Preaching here would be simple since the social system was incredibly bizarre. It seemed like a breeding ground for psychological patients, those with depression, and anti-social misfits. She almost suspected that the Blood Moon Sovereign was an incarnation of the Sovereign of Wind, Rain, and Snow.


    Moreover, this ce revered personal freedoms andcked widespread prophetic tools like the Gospel. The streets were full of fools ready to give and take, like chives growing from the ground, just waiting for Selina to turn them into Followers of the Four Pirs.


    If the Blood Moon Kingdom was like a buffet, then the Gospel Kingdom was like crashing a banquet. Selina had to dodge the Red Caps while quickly gathering Followers.


    Thus, Selina��s view of the apocalypse observer worsened��she had learned these past few days that the Four Pirs Cult had recently been destroyed and the Cult Leader, Ashe, had escaped from prison and was on the run, the very man who couldpete with her for the favor of the Four Pirs.


    She couldn��t understand how the apocalypse observer lost in such an advantageous social environment. If she were Preaching here, the Blood Moon Sovereign would have been promoted as a Substitute of the Four Pirs,pletely subverting the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    Selina still couldn��t grasp why the Four Pirs favored such a loser; surely they didn��t keep him around just for amusement?


    However, she soon wouldn��t need to ponder the troubles brought by the apocalypse observer anymore.


    Selina slightly tilted her head, and a Holographic Screen appeared before her.


    A few days earlier, she had been imnted with a Miracle Chip, a special product of the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    But Selina wasn��t concerned about the shackle installed at the back of her neck; she had endured far worse.


    She was destined for Eternal Entanglement, but Ultimate Evesting.


    ��It��s 10 o��clock���� Selina squinted her eyes, ��Two hours time difference�� the Weaving Festival there has already started.��


    ��That means, Ashe Heath����


    ��Your journey of Eternal Entanglement begins now.��

 Chapter 278: Art Ranking

    Chapter 278: Art Ranking


    Gospel time, May 10th at 23:59:59!


    The first future Ranking List is announced!


    The six people in the living room all flipped to their bookmarked pages, only to see the pages swiftly transform into images and text��no, into a video yer!


    ��Video?��


    ��Thest edition was still in the form of images.�� Butler Youthmented, ��But with each Weaving Festival, the method of announcement evolves with the era, and recently, video has indeed be the main medium.��


    As they spoke, the scenes within the Gospel rapidly changed, featuring young men, Elves, Orcs, and Goblins. Some appeared handsome and dashing, others ancient and stodgy, some fierce and robust, and some elegantly aloof. Without exception, all were painting.


    With a stroke of vivid ink, the title of the first Ranking List was grandly announced��


    Art Ranking


    ��No me this time.�� Harvey yawned.��It would be nice if I were included,�� Banjeetughed. ��I quite enjoy painting�� Maybe Miss Annan is on it.��


    ��I��m not even as good as you at painting, Banjeet,�� Annan smiled.


    Igor pondered, ��I do like painting quite a bit, but I��m not interested in pursuing it further����


    Con Artist looked at Ashe, who cleared his throat, ready to say something, but Igor��s gaze skipped over him to a young girl with white hair: ��Lise, do you like painting?��


    ��Um���� Lise checked her Little Magic Mirror before answering: ��I love it!��


    Ashe: ��Why not ask me?��


    Igor said, ��Look, they��re about to release the painting ranked tenth.��


    ��Don��t dodge my question, hey!��


    The scene in the book began to shift, showing a meticulously dressed male Elf bent over his desk. He seemed to be in a basement, his clothing somewhat dirty, and on the Holographic Screen in front of him, aic was rapidly taking shape with each stroke of his pen.


    Art Ranking, 10th ce: ��From the Old Era��


    ��Aic that portrays the transition from the old Gospel era to the new Wastnd era, the creator integrates his own experiences to depict the personal, social, and Destiny changes under historical shifts. Thisic visualizes the transformations of history����


    ��Lanbeisi Dongbei��


    ��Dongbei Family!�� Annan immediately eximed, ��He��s a member of the Elves�� Dongbei Family!��


    More than the creator��s identity, everyone was captivated by the description of the artwork��Old Gospel era? New Wastnd era? What do these terms mean?


    Moreover, as a descendant of the Elves Family, why would Lanbeisi live in a dirty basement, wearing tattered clothes stuffed with cotton, creating in such harsh conditions?


    Even the poorestmoners could afford a Mechanical Spider, so why would he live a life that seems akin to dwelling in a Sewer?


    Beyond the artwork and the creator himself, the historical context of his creations is even more intriguing.


    ��Lanbeisi Dongbei receives the reward ��Pen of Dialogue��.��


    ��Pen of Dialogue: Any character created with this pen can converse with the creator, and only the creator can hear their Inner Voice. Treat your fictional characters well, or they might curse you out!��


    ����From the Old Era�� receives the reward ��Must-See��.��


    ��Must-See: The moment this work ispleted, every Family will receive a set of this work, and at the same time, the creator will receive an equivalent amount in royalties. The royalty funds will be drawn from the top ten offenders on the ughter Ranking.��


    What a scheme!


    Everyone present couldn��t help but internally criticize.


    While the Pen of Dialogue indeed seems magical and could certainly be a useful tool for a cartoonist, for this group who never nned to contribute to cultural pursuits, the Pen of Dialogue holds little allure.


    Ashe could not think of any other use for the Pen of Dialogue��drawing a Paper person and then falling in love with it?


    Moreover, there are many simpler alternatives for chatting with virtual characters: consulting Igor for hypnosis, seeking Harvey for sweets, or asking Ashe for video games��there are plenty of virtual characters in online games.


    But thetter reward is truly insane.


    It��s one thing to have rewards for the artworks, but to have them instantly distributed nationwide, requiring every Family to own a copy; and not just nationwide distribution, but having the royalties drawn from the top ten murderers on the ughter Ranking!


    When the people of the Gospel unexpectedly receive a deluxe set of theic book, should they say ��thanks to the number one on the ughter Ranking��?


    ��Not right,�� Annan suddenly said. ��While it makes sense to draw from the ughter Ranking, typically such cash rewards are deducted from the national treasury. There has never been a precedent for demanding money from the ughter Ranking, unless����


    ��Unless there is no treasury left,�� Igor finished for Annan, voicing what Annan had only hinted at. ��It��s even possible that the Gospel Kingdom no longer exists.��


    The three migrant workers were naturally indifferent to this. Whether it��s the destruction of the Gospel Kingdom or even the Blood Moon Kingdom, they would simplyment, ��Isn��t that fortunate.��


    However, Banjeet and Annan��s expressions turned quite grim. After all, this was their homnd, and unlike the orphans of the Blood Moon, they still held deep feelings for their nation.


    But unnoticed by all, Lise, hiding in the corner, had a slight smile ying at her lips.


    At that moment, the video from the Gospel continued. The scene showed the Elves painter Lanbeisi suddenly picking up a photo frame from his desk. The frame contained an image of a diminutive Goblin Sorcerer painting beneath an Obelisk. The scene then transitioned from the basement to the Obelisk Square.


    The Goblin Sorcerer painted swiftly and fiercely��each stroke was incredibly bold and forceful. Just watching his painting process, one could feel as if they were witnessing life burning brightly.


    As the Goblin Sorcerer made the final brushstroke, the tip of the Spire emitted a brilliant glow. A visible energy shield quickly unfolded, enveloping the entire city. At the city��s edge, one could faintly see rolling waves of darkness��


    However, uponpleting his work, the body of the Goblin Sorcerer disintegrated into ash��this turned out to be a Ritual Miracle that demanded life as its price!


    Art Ranking, 9th ce: ��Monument of Guardianship��


    ��A Sorcerer has inscribed their wisdom, soul, and arcane energy into the Obelisk through painting, leveraging the power of the Virtual Realm to protect the city from cmities.��


    ��Mantos Cheno��


    ��That Spire is andmark of Hemera���� Annan murmured. ��Hemera is a ins city, also known as ��Land Blessed by the Gods.�� It��s the second major urban area in the Gospel Kingdom, and it has never faced any disasters for thousands of years����


    There��s no need for further discussion��If once could be a coincidence, twice confirms that in the future depicted by the Gospel, this Kingdom will face catastrophic changes.


    Art is merely a shadow of this heavy history.

 Chapter 279: Ashe and Heath

    Chapter 279: Ashe and Heath


    ��Mantos Cheno received the reward ��Hemera��s Badge of Honor��.��


    ��Hemera��s Badge of Honor: In the Hemera region, the holder��s arcane energy recovery rate, Soul Energy recovery rate, and stamina recovery rate increase by 100%, and it grants the holder three chances to resurrect from death.��


    ��The Spire received the reward ��Watcher��.��


    ��Watcher: This building cannot be worn down. Any creature that gazes upon this building receives a temporary stamina restoration blessing,sting for five minutes, which can only be triggered once per day.��


    Undoubtedly, ��Hemera��s Badge of Honor�� is an extremely powerful Item, especially with the three chances to resurrect, allowing the holder to virtually dominate in Hemera. The ��Watcher�� reward is also quite intriguing; rather than saying it rewards the Spire, it might be more urate to say it rewards the citizens of Hemera.


    However, no one in the living room felt like discussing these rewards. The city outside had also fallen into silence, as if everyone was waiting for the verdict from the Gospel.


    ��Art Ranking, 8th ce: ��The Demigod��s Body of the Thousand-Color Oath����


    ��A Sorcerer uses up all their sanity, all arcane energy, all spirits, their unique name, and life traces to create colored ink, which they apply stroke by stroke to their own body, thus leveraging the power of the Virtual Realm to temporarily gain power beyond Legend.��


    ��Alifiya Kaliya��Art Ranking, 7th ce: ��The Five Thousand Blood Array��


    ��5623 Sorcerers use their own blood as ink, and in a single night, they draw ritual runes across the entire city, using themselves as conduits to leverage the power of the Virtual Realm to reinforce the city��s structures.��


    ��Paris Sastin and 5623 others.��


    As Ashe and others looked through, it was one thing, but Annan and Banjeet were nearly out of breath, their expressions extremely oppressed.


    The Art Ranking barely described the world fifty yearster directly, but each ranked piece indirectly depicted the brutal disasters that the Gospel Kingdom had endured.


    It was a cruelty that led to the death of Sorcerers, the copse of nations, the destruction of cities, the extinction of Families, marking nearly the end of the year 1668 in the history of Gospel��a great terror!


    ��What exactly happened���� Miss Annan bit her finger, ��If the future is destined to be like this, is there still a need for us to vie for the Divine Master��s Wish�� Yes, the Divine Master��s Wish!��


    Banjeet responded, ��Exactly, as long as we obtain the Divine Master��s Wish, we can request the Omniscient Weaver to intervene!��


    ��Oh? I guess you don��t mean using the wish to save the world, do you?��


    Igor tilted his head, ��Mr. Banjeet probably won��t have the chance to see the world fifty years from now, and Miss Annan, after using the wish to elevate your power beyond Legend, even if you can��t resist, you could definitely escape from the Gospel to another safe Kingdom to live, like our homnd which is quite nice�� There��s absolutely no need to use the wish on something grand like saving the world, right?��


    Annan surveyed them, ��What if I suddenly decide I want to save the world?��


    ��Then I��d be very happy that my employer is a good person,�� Igor shrugged, ��After all, I don��t have such a high Realm of thought.��


    They had revealed themselves, Ashe thought.


    From the beginning to the end, Annan had never disclosed why she was willing to pay such a great price just for a chance to seize the Divine Master��s Wish.


    Of course, everyone wants a wish, but what to wish for after obtaining it could be worlds apart.


    If Annan wished for eternal life, evesting youth, or even to be a deity, everyone could understand and cooperate normally. However, if Annan was pursuing this n for some lofty ideal, it would be difficult for everyone to coborate sincerely.


    Igor and Harvey are both selfish, so they know that dealing with the selfish is the mostfortable��selfish people are afraid of death.


    People with weaknesses are the easiest to control.


    But idealists are different; apart from death, idealists have no other weaknesses. They only have two oues: win or die.


    Cooperation means that everyone bears a cost too great to breach, so they must adhere to the rules of winning and losing. But if one party is not afraid of breaching, then such cooperation is merely a joke; they could overturn the table and deny everything at any time.


    Annan and Banjeet seemed to sense that the rift between them and their tools was widening, so they remained silent and continued to look at the Art Ranking.


    Soon, the Art Ranking reached its number one spot.


    Unlike the gloomy scenes before, the scene of the first-ce artwork was veryforting. In the studio with white walls, soft sunlight filtered through the windows, spreading across the wooden floor. Indoor nts gently swayed, inducing a drowsyziness at first nce.


    As the camera zoomed in, the scene revealed a beautiful woman in purple attire painting. Opposite her, there seemed to be a soft chair that should have been upied by a model, but it was empty. However, the woman continued to paint as if someone was indeed there.


    As the camera slightly shifted, the face of the woman in purple slowly came into view, and then, almost everyone in the living room stood up in shock!


    Although she appeared more mature and more dazzling, this painter was unmistakably the head of the Funeral Firm, Miss Annan, known as the ��Purple Moth��!


    Miss Annan seemed mncholic in the video, her hand heavy as if leaden, painting with slow, burdensome strokes. Despite the light paper, each brushstroke felt immensely heavy, making it ufortable to watch.


    When she made the final stroke, she stood up as if finally freed, violently snapping her paintbrush and shouting loudly, ��It��s over!��


    Crack!


    With that crisp sound, the clean studio and the soft sunlight shattered like ss.


    She wasn��t in a clean, bright studio but standing amidst burning ruins. The ground around her was cracked, the sky a murky yellow-grey, indistinguishable between day and night, as if the world was being devoured by the apocalypse!


    At that moment, the perspective shifted behind Miss Annan, and everyone noticed that the soft chair, which should have been empty, now had someone sitting in it!


    However, because the easel blocked the view, they could only see the legs and not the face directly!


    But that didn��t matter.


    Because whatever was obscured by the easel, Miss Annan had already captured it on her canvas.


    This is the first-ranked artwork on the Art Ranking.


    In the ruins of a burning city, a man dressed in a dark red trench coat is seated on a luxurious red leather soft chair. He crosses his legs, rests his left hand on his cheek, and wears a mask. His unkempt bangs fall casually, and he gazes indifferently at the burning world, his eyes slightly squinting as if he is smiling.


    A chilling shiver runs up Ashe��s spine.


    Art Ranking Number 1: ��Ashe Heath��


    ��Portrait of Ashe Heath, painted by Annan Dn��

 Chapter 280: The Reward of Weaving

    Chapter 280: The Reward of Weaving


    Everyone looked towards Ashe, who was perched on a red leather armchair.


    At the moment, Ashe was sporting his Dark Red Trench Coat with his legs crossed. He hadn��t gone so far as to wear a mask indoors, and beneath the trench coat, he wore pajamas with slippers hooked on his feet. Compared to everyone else, he stood out like a mudslide at the Funeral Firm.


    Yet, the familiarity in his eyes and face, the corresponding outfit, and most importantly, the Gospel having named him explicitly, forced everyone to acknowledge that this man before them, Ashe Heath, was indeed the mysterious andmanding figure from the number one portrait in the Art Ranking!


    ��Fifty years and you��re still clinging to that trench coat and mask!?�� Igor and Lise eximed in unison.


    ��Cough, cough!�� Harvey, caught off-guard while smoking, looked bewildered at the pair��your points of focus are so odd that even a Necromancer would find it strange.


    Ashe himself seemed puzzled, but his confusion quickly turned to delight, ��Wait, does this mean both Miss and I can receive exclusive rewards from the Ranking List?��


    ��Rewards? Now is not the time to care about rewards!��


    Annan chuckled bitterly, ��Banjeet!��


    The Butler Youth, understanding with Telepathy, immediately left. Lise, puzzled, asked, ��Isn��t it a good thing that Annan and Ashe are listed?��Annan sighed, about to say something, but the Gospels of both her and Ashe suddenly emitted two beams of light, onending on the Purple Moth, etching Pattern Lines on her left eye and tongue; the other fell upon the Cult Leader, causing his Dark Red Trench Coat to ripple and surge as if alive.


    ��Annan Dn receives the rewards ��Cmity Insight�� and ��Tongue of Release��.��


    ��Cmity Insight: The bearer can now identify cmities, never bringing them home again.��


    ��Tongue of Release: The bearer can verbally end any Contract when both parties are willing.��


    ��Ashe Heath receives the rewards ��Demonic Trench Coat�� and ��Twisted Mask��.��


    ��Demonic Trench Coat: All intelligent beings who see the wearer for the first time undergo a mind check. The higher the Mind Faction level of the wearer, the more difficult the check bes for those with a lower Mind Faction level, and vice versa. If the check fails, the observer will be subjected to a mental suggestion, rendering them incapable of harboring any malice towards the wearer.��


    ��Twisted Mask: Distorts all detection attempts directed at the wearer. All intelligent beings will notice the wearer��s presence at first sight. This effect remains active regardless of whether the mask is worn.��


    Starting from the third ce, the rewards from the Art Ranking typicallye in pairs, and even when they are singr, they are extremely powerful.


    However, no one expected the method of awarding to be so direct, with the rewards literally shooting out of the Gospel and onto the ranked individuals��essentially a direct sale from the manufacturer.


    In the eyes of the onlookers, they could faintly see Ashe appearing to wear a mask, fitting so well that it seemed as if the mask was the real entity and Ashe was merely an ornament to the mask. Yet, when they shifted their gaze away, the mask disappeared;


    Annan��s pupils were now covered withplex purple Pattern Lines, and at a quick nce, they appeared to be purple pupils. But upon closer inspection, the pupils were filled with densely packed, intricate lines that could drive those with a fear of tightly-packed patterns insane!


    ��Is this�� the reward of the Weaving Festival?�� Annan murmured softly.


    She covered her right eye and looked around with her left, noticing that each person had a different colored aura around them. Since this eye was named Cmity Insight, she temporarily referred to this vision as Cmity Vision.


    Harvey��s aura was an unpleasant dark green, but not highly dangerous; Igor��s aura was a clear dark red, pretty and enticing at first, yet with a murky darkness at its center that was chilling to behold; Lise��s aura was multicolored, shifting from ck to deep red, to pure white, to sky blue, making it hard to understand.


    But at this moment, what Annan cared about most was her future portrait model, Ashe Heath!


    Among everyone, Ashe��s aura was the thickest, almost overshadowing the auras of others. However, his aura was also the most unique, flowing like surging rainbow waves. Annan could not determine his level of danger based on the color of his aura!


    ��Distorts all detection attempts directed at the wearer���� The effect of the ��Twisted Mask�� actually supersedes that of ��Cmity Insight��!?


    Miss Annan��s expression darkened as she opened her right eye, and the world returned to normal, with the halos around everyone disappearing.


    Normal vision returned with both eyes open, while using only her left eye activated Cmity Vision. The Gospel seemed quite considerate in this regard��if Cmity Vision were always active, it would greatly impact normal life.


    At this moment, she noticed everyone was looking at her, and Igor asked, ��What did you see with Cmity Insight?��


    ��Now is not the time to discuss that,�� Miss Annan shook her head. ��Everyone, pack your bags. I��m giving you 15 minutes. We leave in 15 minutes.��


    ��Why?�� Ashe asked, surprised. ��It can��t be because of me, can it? The Gospel didn��t say anything about me, and they surely don��t think I��m the source of the cmity����


    ��Actually, the Gospel did mention it,�� Lise raised her hand and said. ��There��s a whole bunch of text in the artwork��s description praising dad��s great achievements. It��s just that dad��s power has overshadowed it, and the text has been smeared away. Dad, you��re so powerful!��


    ��And it��s not just the painting itself,�� Igor added. ��Look at Miss Annan��s exclusive reward, ��Cmity Insight�� means to mock thedy for bringing this disaster home, and ��Tongue of Release�� is urging thedy to hurry up and terminate the Contract with you and kick you out. Goodbye Ashe, I��ll visit your cardboard box under the Skybridgeter.��


    Harvey also spoke up, ��I rmend living in the cemetery. In a developed Kingdom like the Gospel Kingdom, the cemeteries are sure to be clean and hygienic. I hear there��s even a tradition of offerings, so you won��t even need to worry about finding food.��


    Ashe looked at them both, surprised. He could tell that, although the Con Artist and the Necromancer were mocking him in their remarks, they were actually inciting Miss Annan��now that she had gained the ability to dissolve Contracts, if she really disliked Ashe or had other ns, she might indeed terminate their Contract on the spot.


    Freedom!


    If Ashe could escape from Annan��s control during this opportunity, it would be an unexpected boon for him.


    Despite Ashe��sissez-faire attitude��often quipping ��It��s great to be kept by a richdy,�� ��No need to work for a living,�� and ��A life without work is iplete����if he had the chance to regain his freedom, he would seize it without hesitation, even if it meant facing numerous risks.


    Recall that when Ashe escaped from Shattered Lake, he had to face pursuit by Sanctuary Sorcerers and societal rejection. There was nowhere in the world for him save for the Bewitcher��s home.


    But now, he didn��t even have a single warrant out for his arrest, not to mention his rewards: the Twisted Mask shielded him from prophetic inquiries, and the Demonic Trench Coat deterred strangers. The social atmosphere in the Gospel Kingdom was so harmonious and united, iparable to the troublesome citizens of the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    With such adverse conditions during his escape from Shattered Lake, Ashe had resolutely broken his iron rice bowl; now, with such favorable conditions for starting a business, he was not afraid of being dismissed by Annan. At worst, he could be a frencer and start anew in a strange city, something he was already ustomed to.


    However, Annan did not seem to intend to let go of her outstanding employee: ��It��s not about the painting. Don��t say this artwork implies that Ashe is the cmity destroying the Gospel world. Even if it praised Ashe for saving the Gospel Kingdom, marrying the Princess, and leading the people into a heavenly society, we would still need to escape!��


    ��Our danger is rted only to Ashe��s prominence!��


    Igor abruptly stood up: ��Because Ashe is a foreigner?��


    ��Exactly!�� Annan nodded emphatically. ��Once others realize Ashe has no past, they will know he is a foreigner, and I, being the head of the Firm, am associated with him�� The idea of exploiting a foreigner to find a loophole during the Weaving Festival has been around for a while, but few have seeded. Only our Dn family has the experience.��


    ��When they associate me with Ashe, they won��t think that he will truly bring disaster to the Gospel Kingdom. They will think it��s a miracle I created, that I sessfully disguised Ashe as a sweet and splendid cake, hence the Gospel gives a five-star rating!��


    ��Our n has been exposed.�� Annan��s expression was extremely grim: ��Our enemies are not the Gospel, but����


    ��Annan!�� the Butler Youth screamed, rushing out with a suitcase in hand. ��The Hovercar has lost connection!��


    Annan was startled. She saw Ashe suddenly pull a longsword from his mouth and sh down at her heavily��


    Miracle Sword Barrier!


    Boom!


    The balcony��s French windows shattered explosively as dozens of Drones burst into the room, not delivering parcels this time, but armed with light machine guns!


    ��Remote defense!�� At Annan��smand, Banjeet, Harvey, and Igor automatically reacted��


    Ice Miracle Ricochet Ice Screen!


    Necromancy Miracle Life Link!


    Mind Miracle Cold Blood Mode!


    These days weren��t all about leisure for them, as Annan held amanding Contract over them, allowing her to orchestrate everyone��s actions in battle as if ying chess!


    The Ricochet Ice Screen could effectively defend against a storm of Shot Bullets, Life Link could lock the health of the severely wounded, and Cold Blood Mode could make the recipients forget fear and pain. Combined with Ashe��s Sword Barrier, these four miracles ensured that the Funeral Firm had the means to protect itself from long-range attacks!


    Dada dada dada dada��


    The terrifying sound of Shot Bullets echoed inside, causing one��s scalp to tingle and brain to boil. Ashe, holding Annan with one hand and Lise with the other, quickly retreated behind the group.


    Before he could catch his breath, suddenly, a spider-like object leaped out and mped onto his face��


    ��Watch out!��


    These usually inconspicuous Mechanical Spiders, responsible only for housework, suddenly attacked like mad, exploding upon getting close!


    Boom!


    Boom!


    Boom!


    The Mechanical Spiders approaching Igor and the others were preemptively blown up, the only one that slipped through was the one that jumped at Ashe��s face!


    Bang!


    With a muffled explosion close at hand, the Mechanical Spider clinging to Ashe��s face fell off.


    A shaken Ashe saw Annan next to him, dressed in pajamas, single-handedly holding a submachine gun, the barrel still trailing smoke. Clearly, Annan had just saved her employee��s life.


    However, Ashe keenly noticed that dangling from the barrel of the submachine gun was a sparkling Amethyst Earring, while the Amethyst Earring Annan was always fidgeting with was missing.


    He suddenly remembered what Annan had said: ��As a Swordcerer, the fact that you are never seen carrying a sword at any time is telling. Any practitioner of the craft always carries their weapon.��


    Annan noticed his gaze, patted the stock of the gun and said, ��This is Miss Donna. Her mother works for the Absolute de Mechanics Corporation. She��s usually shy, excels at firing 9mm Shot Bullets. Won��t you thank her?��


    ��Thank you, Miss Donna!��


    At that moment, the Drone��s barrage ended, and the ice screen was shattered. Miss Annan, looking towards the two figures descending from the Hovercar at the edge of the balcony, slowly exhaled, ��Azura is skilled at controlling Drones and spiders, these smart devices. It must be you guys.��


    ��Pleasure to meet you, Purple Moth of the Funeral Firm,�� the young man smiled. ��I am Menard Keenest, the Combat Officer of the Moonlit Harmony Home Firm.��


    ��Logistics Officer, Leman Searle,�� the long-haireddy said coolly.


    ��Forgive our intrusion. It seems you were nning a trip, but we hope you can stay for a while. Our firm��s leader is on her way here.��


    ��She is very keen to discuss a deep coboration with the Funeral Firm.��


    ��What kind of coboration?�� Annan asked coldly.


    ��Well, that would be����


    Menard summoned his Gospel, turned it towards Annan, and there were four photos inside��it was Ashe, Igor, Harvey, and Lise!


    ��To jointly develop scarce resources.��

 Chapter 281: Broken Home Firm

    Chapter 281: Broken Home Firm


    Moonlit Harmony Home Firm!


    Information about this firm swiftly flowed through Ashe��s mind��the Azura Mission Ranking: 2nd ce, National Mission Ranking: 9th ce!


    It��s one of the two firms in the Azura��s notorious ��One Pce, Two Firms, Three Families, Four Major Companies��!


    Despite the seemingly friendly name of this firm, it is quite the norm. After all, firms belong to the service industry; they can��t afford to put on a standoffish front, especially in thest fifty years as industries evolve rapidly. Previously, there were less than ten firms per region, but now dozens of firms arepeting in the same market. The shift from a seller��s to a buyer��s market has naturally led to internalpetition.


    On the other hand, names like ��Funeral Firm�� serve as negative examples. One would instantly think the person in charge is likely a nonsensical Riddler, who might even bring unique and entric ideas to their work��indeed, this wasn��t a wrong guess.


    However, such an attitude towards service no longer suffices today.


    Fortunately, having been in operation for over two hundred years, the Funeral Firm can still survive with such a name and service stance. Yet, when it fell into Annan��s hands, the firm had already declined to the tenth position in its district, showing that these old-fashioned workshop-style firms are no longer suitable for modern times.


    In contrast, Moonlit Harmony Home Firm embodies the enterprise of the new era��memorable name, full-on advertising, thorough service, heartwarming prices, and aplete training process for employing sorcerers. Thus, within just a few decades, it has be a force to be reckoned with in the Azura region.


    Moreover, Ashe and hispanions realized through apanying Annan on missions that the firm��s strength doesn��t lie in the sorcerers themselves, but in��The positions of the Gospel they had unlocked.


    ��Why the silence?�� Menard spoke, ��If you don��t make a stance, then I can only assume����


    ��You��ve rejected the goodwill of Moonlit Harmony.��


    Buzz!


    With shattering soundsing from all directions, everyone sharply realized dozens of drones had broken through from various levels of the building!


    ��Broken Home Firm��s signature move,�� Annan rapidly exined. ��Modern smart homes almost entirely rely on data analysis from the Gospel. They can use the Gospel as a medium to invade all drones, mechanical spiders, hovercars, and any other device with an automatic operating system. We must deal with them, or we won��t be able to call a hovercar to leave.��


    They resided hundreds of meters up in the invertedyer, which provided great views but limited their mode of entry and exit��they could either fly down directly by hovercar or take an elevator to the ��ground�� of the double-tiered city and then take a car.


    However, both options required an automated transport system. If they couldn��t neutralize these two enemies who could invade any smart device, using any transport would be like voluntarily lying in a coffin and delivering themselves to the enemy!


    ��Split into two teams, the front team will forcefully make a breakthrough to handle those two, while the rear team provides cover.�� Annan, in his pajamas, gripped his beloved Miss Donna��s shotgun: ��I��ll provide cover, but I need one more person.��


    Nobody thought Annan was shirking his duties because the rear team��s task was even more critical��now, dozens of drones were swarming in from other parts of the floor, and the rear team had to deal with these armed drones with fewer people, ensuring these rogue delivery units didn��t interfere with the front team��s mission!


    ��I��ll do it,�� Harvey patted the coffin beside him, ��One for two.��


    Necromancers are indeed reassuring when ites to numbers.


    ��Move.��


    There was no time for discussion or hesitation. The sound of the drones�� rotors, as if ready to strangle someone, was getting very close, and the drones on the other side of the ice screen were also reloaded��within a few breaths, thousands of shot bullets would shred everything in the room!


    Banjeet was the first to rush out, his hands already clenched around his dual guns, a misty chill constantly bursting from the barrels.


    In the Gospel Kingdom, gun technique was even more prevalent than in the Blood Moon Kingdom. Even a mage like Banjeet, who majored in ice magic, would study gun technique to enhance his spellcasting��thanks to the great shot bullets, allowing fireballs and ice sts the chance to break the sound barrier!


    Miracle Bursting Ice Spike Shot!


    Just as the gun fired, several small holes suddenly appeared in the ice screen, perfectly allowing the deadly Miracle Shot Bullets to pass through and strike the enemy!


    This scene caused Ashe and Igor��s pupils to constrict��being Sorcerers, they naturally understood the value of this maneuver. It was capable of deploying both a Defensive Miracle and an Attack Miracle simultaneously, and even allowed for a brief Loophole in the defense for the Attack Miracle to take effect�� Frankly, with such micromanagement, Banjeet could easily rank among the topbatants of the Two Wings!


    In Sorcerer Battle, there are two tactical objectives: self-preservation and inflicting damage on the enemy.


    However, for a Sorcerer of the Two Wings Realm, these two goals are hard to achieve simultaneously. One might either use offense as defense, like the Swordswoman Witch, or defense as offense, like Ashe.


    Ashe is a typical case of having ample defense but insufficient offense. He can cast Sword Barrier to protect himself, but since the Sword Barrier restricts movement, he must rely on spirit techniques like ��Heart Sword�� and ��Substitute�� for Long-range Attacks.


    Even though ��Heart Sword�� is indeed adept at long-range Swordsmanship, its destructive power is not even one-tenth of that of a Swordswoman Witch in closebat.


    When attacking, one is in a precarious position; when defending, the damage is almost negligible.


    This is even more evident in Gun Technique practitioners��they are safe behind cover, but they can��t shoot; once they do shoot, the enemy can retaliate.


    Banjeet��s ice screen is undoubtedly an excellent Defensive Miracle, yet it also blocked his own attacks. However, Banjeet was able to maintain the integrity of the ice screen while sending out the Shot Bullets�� Though it seemed straightforward, this was a tactical system that put him in an unbeatable position!


    Until Banjeet��s arcane energy was depleted, the opponents could only suffer one-sided devastation from him, unable to reach anyone behind the ice screen!


    Snap! Snap! Snap!


    The sound of the ice spikes shattering was as crisp as breaking wine bottles, and the unmanned swarm in front was instantly devastated, the electrical sparks screaming as they fell!


    Unbeknownst when, Igor was biting on a whistle, suddenly moving close to Ashe��s ear, and blew the whistle with all his might!


    Whistle!!!!


    The whistle sound instantly overpowered all gunfire, turning this sound into the most vile and filthy poison bugs through a Miracle, piercing the enemy��s eardrums and burrowing into their brains!


    Miracle Mind-Piercing Shriek!


    Even though it wasn��t specifically targeted, Banjeet, Annan, Lise, and Harvey, among others, were all simultaneously affected. Only Ashe, who was close at hand, felt as if Igor was grinding his teeth right next to his ear.


    Ashe��s extensive Battle experience allowed him to instantly understand the w of this Miracle: the closer the target, the weaker the Mind-Piercing Shriek. Conversely, those enemies trying to distance themselves suffered as if their brains were being hammered by sonic waves.


    Ordinary area-effect Miracles distribute arcane energy evenly, ensuring that enemies are damaged no matter where they are; however, superior area-effect Miracles allocate arcane energy to the most likely positions of enemies, maximizing the efficiency of the damage dealt.


    The Swordswoman��s ��Blood Flower Water Moon�� operates simrly. Before casting, she often swings her sword forward not to attack, but to force the enemy to retreat, as the maximum damage of Blood Flower Water Moon urs just beyond the reach of her sword.


    At this moment, the two enemy agents within the optimal attack range felt as though the whistle sound was a sword piercing through their heads!


    ��Cough!�� Menard grunted, feeling as if his brain had turned to mush, bending over and kneeling like a shrimp, with blood dripping from his nose incessantly.


    Leman staggered as well, but she managed to maintain herposure and promptly summoned a dozen Drones to shield herself, just in time to block another round of bursting ice spike bullets!


    However, it didn��t matter. Outside, countless Drones were on standby, many of which were carrying delivery and takeout orders. Unfortunately, these orders would soon be automatically cancelled due to unexpected events, leaving manyte-night workers hungry.


    But these Drones were not yet equipped with automatic Firearms; they could only serve as a wall of shields.


    On the highway directly beneath the inverted skyscraper, hundreds of Drones were lining up to be equipped with automatic Firearms from shipping containers, then taking off to join the Battle above.


    The emergency delivery Drones naturally could not carry Firearms, but they were left with instation backdoors, allowing them to transform into airborne firepower at any moment. Therefore, Moonlit Harmony Home Firm only needed to drive an ammunition truck around the city to instantly create an army of Drones.


    Furthermore, the exterior walls of the inverted skyscraper were now swarming with hundreds of Mechanical Spiders joining the battle. The elevators inside the building had stopped operating, and all automatic doors in Annan��s residence were locked, effectively blocking all escape routes.


    Menard and Leman never intended to engage in a deadly fight with the Funeral Firm. Their n was to use Drones and Mechanical Spiders to slow down their targets, trapping them inside this building at negative fifty-first floor, and simply wait for the arrival of ��Baroness Cicada��.


    Even though the Funeral Firm demonstrated considerablebat capabilities, Menard and Leman were still confident about this mission. In this ��big family�� of the city, Moonlit Harmony Home Firm acted as the controlling Butler!


    Whiz!!


    The whistle sounded again, and at the same time, another round of Shot Bullets made of bursting ice spikes came flying.


    However, Menard and Leman were prepared this time. They covered their ears and barely resisted the sonic assault, while a swarm of Drones rushed forward to detonate the Miracle Shot Bullets!


    ��If this is all they��ve got, they might be overwhelmed by Drones before the Baroness even arrives����


    Just as this thought crossed Menard��s mind, he suddenly saw a Sword Shadow emerge from behind the curtain of ice. It did not strike towards them but instead embedded itself in the ceiling.


    Hmm?


    They looked up at the longsword trembling in the ceiling. The next second, the longsword emitted a pale yellow glow, and then��


    Suddenly, a man in a Dark Red Trench Coat emerged from the hilt. He swiftly drew the longsword, kicked off the ceiling with both legs, and like a falling meteor, he plunged alone towards the two!


    Miracle Rush!


    ��Good evening, I��m here to develop your Sorcerer Handbook!��

 Chapter 282: Coffins and Virtual Wings

    Chapter 282: Coffins and Virtual Wings


    The front lines were tense, and so were the rears.


    Harvey tore open a Snow White candy wrapper, popped a candy into his mouth, and lit a Catnip Cigarette, exhaling smoke rings that looked like sweet doughnuts.


    Candy and smoke, endless joy.


    ��What pattern do you like?�� asked Harvey.


    ��Violets. What kind of grave do you prefer?��


    ��Just sell my Corpse for a good price. The value of a Necromancer is reflected in the price of his Corpse.��


    ��Alright, you take the right, I��ll take the left.��


    Buzz, buzz, buzz��


    As Drone swarms appeared from both corners, Harvey and Annan turned and stepped into their defense zone!The Necromancer gently pped the coffin, which, equipped with roller fittings, slid to the center of the corridor. He then sped his hands together and bowed slightly towards the coffin, as if paying homage to the spirits of the dead.


    The dark coffin suddenly emitted a bright green glow. From its sides, seven ethereal chains burst forth, connecting to the walls on both sides, the ceiling above, and the floor below. Between the chains, a barrier resembling soap bubbles materialized, instantly sealing off the entire corridor with the coffin and the luminescent barrier.


    The coffin closed, and no machine could open it!


    Tap! Tap! Tap! Tap! Tap!��


    The sound of Shot Bullets filled the air, crisscrossing the corridor like torrential rain. Yet, not a single bullet could harm Harvey behind the coffin. That seemingly fragile fluorescent foam was as solid as a wall of iron and copper��no bullet could prate the barrier!


    Miracle Immortal Coffin Burial!


    Although Banjeet had advised them to spend these days frivolously, Harvey was not so obedient. He had secretly prepared his weapon: this coffin.


    The world often misunderstands Necromancers, thinking the Necromancy Faction is just about manipting Corpses. This is incorrectpared to Corpses, it is the coffin that receives most of the Necromancer��s affection.


    After all, good Corpses are rare, and since Corpses are consumables that must be reced after use, anyone with even a slight knowledge of finance knows not to invest too much in consumables. Resources should be invested in assets that can be held over the long term.


    As for the corpses of exterminated dragons, Titans, and Sanctuary mages, these indeed have investment value. However, the problem is that ordinary Necromancers do not have ess to such prime assets. Therefore, Necromancers turn their attention to something that can apany them for a longer time��their beloved coffin.


    The disadvantages of coffins need not be mentioned, but their advantages are almost irresistible to Necromancers: finding a good Corpse can be directly stuffed into it for transformation, Ritual Tracks can be set up on the coffin for fast spellcasting, and there is no need to carry a tent during field trips�� For Necromancers, a coffin is as indispensable as beauty is to Igor.


    Every Necromancer should have a coffin personally crafted by themselves; a coffin is the most worthy asset to invest in and the only fortress that can shelter a Necromancer from the elements. Without a good coffin, a good Corpse will eventually leave; with a good coffin, even a lesser Corpse can be gradually nurtured into a fine Necromancer.


    It��s like buying a house when getting married��the logic is the same.


    Unfortunately, when Harvey was captured, the coffin that had apanied him for five years was confiscated by the Blood Mad Hunter, and it��s unknown which member of the sacred bloodline got it for a bargain.


    After his escape from prison, being homeless under the vast Blood Moon, there was simply no room for a coffin.


    It was only after arriving in the Gospel Kingdom that Harvey had time to create his own little world.


    The Immortal Coffin Burial is a Miracle performed using the coffin, creating a temporary barrier Area ording to the terrain. All damage is absorbed by the barrier, then dispersed through chains connected to nearby structures.


    However, as a Two Wings Miracle, the Immortal Coffin Burial has an upper limit to its damage absorption. With such intense shooting by the Drone swarm, the coffin��s glowing green light grew increasingly intense, and the walls and floor connected by the chains were on the verge of copse, indicating that the barrier was about to shatter!


    Yet Harvey showed no concern at all, his hands pressed against the back of the coffin, as if feeling the heartbeat within.


    ��Alice, save me.��


    But as the green light reached its limit, the barrier burst open with a loud explosion. And with the barrier, the coffin opened as well!


    With a snap, the coffin lid fell, and from it stepped a petite Corpse radiating with necromantic green glow. A secondter, a green sh streaked through the air, and the foremost Drones were sted into oblivion!


    Perhaps Shot Bullets could catch up with Alice, but the Drone��s gun barrels couldn��t turn fast enough!


    Combined Miracle: Immortal Coffin Burial, Agony Awakening Ritual!


    At first nce, the Agony Awakening Ritual seems utterly useless��a Miracle whose effect is that when a Necromancer suffers an unstoppable attack, they gain ayer of ��Agony.�� The moreyers of ��Agony,�� the better the overall qualities of the Necromancer be. However, these ��Agony��yers have a time Restriction and quickly disappear.


    In other words, the more they are hit, the stronger they be.


    Normally, even if a Necromancer can efficiently heal a Corpse, the Corpse can only umte two or threeyers of ��Agony,�� making the enhancement effect negligible. However, whenbined with Immortal Coffin Burial, the Agony Awakening Ritual ascends to the pinnacle of Necromantic Miracles.


    During the casting of Immortal Coffin Burial, the Necromancer and the coffin are unified, meaning that any destructive strike against the coffin can addyers of ��Agony�� to the Necromancer.


    The barrage of Shot Bullets from the Drone swarm broke the barrier in just a few seconds, stacking at least 100yers of ��Agony�� on Alice! Although thisbined Miracle has a short duration and requires specific terrain conditions, it is perfectly suited to counter these Drones.


    Thinking about whether to help Annan or not, the Necromancer turned to see Annan deploying her virtual wings.


    Silver Wings, Golden Wings unfolded behind her, but their color was not silver or gold, but a profound purple. The virtual wings are not for flying; instead, their tips extend into gun barrels, acting like dense artillery turrets guarding Annan��s sides.


    As Annan, along with her assault rifles, opened fire on the Drone swarm, the twin wing turrets silently spewed arcane energy Shot Bullets. The dense barrage of bullets forcefully pinned the Drone swarm against the corner!


    No wonder she said she could handle the rear�� In a narrow corridor setting, Annan��s firepower alone was enough to suppress the entire Drone Legion!


    Squeak!


    Suddenly, the light fixtures above shook and fell, dimming the light slightly��such arge house naturally had lights everywhere, and it wouldn��t miss one. However, along with the falling light fixtures came two Mechanical Spiders!


    Harvey managed to destroy a Mechanical Spider leaping towards him, but Annan, facing the corridor and overwhelmed by the noise of gunfire, didn��t notice another Mechanical Spider dropping down from above��


    Bang!


    A Shot Bullet grazed Annan��s hair. She tilted her head slightly and saw Lise, both hands on her Handgun, smoke rising from the barrel. A pierced Mechanical Spider fell at her feet, its eight legs curling up like a dead spider.


    ��Thanks, Lise.��


    ��You��re wee.��


    Annan nced at the calm, white-haired young girl without showing any surprise and continued to maintain her firepower advantage, suppressing the Drone Legion around the corner.


    But her arcane energy wasn��t infinite, and Harvey��s Alice couldn��t maintain her frenzied battle state indefinitely, while the Drones seemed endless��now, the entire city��s delivery drones had been turned into killing machines by Moonlit Harmony Home Firm.


    Not to mention, every second they stayed here, the ��Baroness Cicada�� drew closer!


    Even without having met her, Annan knew they were no match for the leader of one of the top ten firms in the country!


    The Breakthrough in this Battle stilly ahead on the front lines!

 Chapter 283: You Stare at Ashe, the Observer Stares Back

    ��Good evening, I��m here to develop your Sorcerer Handbook!��


    nning to deal with us first? A fine idea, as to direct intelligent machinery attacks, we indeed have to use our eyes to lure them, making us the most obvious vulnerability in drone tactics.


    But it also sets�� the deadliest trap!


    Tormented by a psychic screech, Menard��s lips curled into a slight smirk. With a gentle tap of his foot, the concrete ground beneath him burst into countless spikes, shooting up like wildly growing vines towards his attacker!


    A victim of ��Sorcerer Duel 14,�� Menard had specialized in the Earth Faction from a young age, dreaming of someday having a girlfriend like the Earth Empress. It was only when he started working at construction sites as an adult that he realized the harsh environment meant no female earth sorcerers would be found there.


    However, hisbat skills could not be concealed by merely belonging to the Earth Faction. He was quickly recruited by the Moonlit Harmony Home Firm, primarily responsible for battles within city limits.


    For him, a sorcerer who had once moved bricks on construction sites, the urban steel jungle offered countless weapons to exploit!


    During the recent drone swarm attack, Menard had already quietly prepared the Ritual Tracks for a Miracle. Although many Earth Faction Miracles that drastically alter the terrain require a long casting time, sorcerers can prepare all the initial Ritual Tracks in advance and trigger the final steps when needed.


    This Miracle technique, tteringly called ��precognition�� and less tteringly ��fishing,�� is specially used for ensnaring enemies.��Hmph.��


    Facing the spiky hell, Ashe showed neither sadness nor joy, not only because Igor had pre-administered him with a stimnt boost but also because he had been through too many battles himself.


    Being around geniuses like the Swordswoman and the Witch, even if Ashe liked to stick close to stronger figures, he had honed a sorcerer��s heart through rigorous trials. Perhaps even Ashe himself hadn��t realized that he was apletely different breed from the little office worker who had transmigrated just a month ago. Whether navigating through a barrage of gunfire or facing the threat of Miracles, he handled them as adeptly as he managed his business dealings.


    It was life and women that had shaped him into this figure!


    Honeyed de cut through the air, forming a lethal of swords that strangled all the menacing earth spikes!


    Ashe did not use a Miracle, but simply enhanced his sh with spirit techniques such as sh Sword, Heart Sword, and Sword Scar. His sword skills were enough to prate the traps��he was, after all, a man with 50% of the Swordswoman��s swordsmanship level!


    Watching Ashe elegantlynd, Menard and Leman stepped back, preparing to overwhelm him with concrete and Drones.


    A mere Swordcerer, he had no capital to contend with them��the age of cold weapons had long passed��


    Thump!


    Thump, thump!


    The next second, Ashe raised his head, and Menard and Leman finally saw the full picture of this bad man, their hearts pounding intensely.


    In the eyes of the two agents, the face of this man in a Dark Red Trench Coat began to distort, his form spreading like ink in water, the air dancing around him, and the light singing for him. The concrete walls bowed to him.


    It was as if a key had unlocked the explosive sound deep within their gic material, quietly prying open their skulls, pouring into their brains, stirring their thoughts��


    ��He walks above the heavens, with the eternal dusk of day and night chaos behind him, the sun and moon frantically fleeing before him, hailstorms to his left, and the roaring tornadoes to his right.��


    ��He walks upon the earth, riding a chariot made of bones, turning the ground he passes into wastnd, the cities into ruins, leaving corpses everywhere, the world he sees turbid and fierce.��


    ��He walks upon the sea, riding a raft woven from fingernails, blowing the horn of the apocalypse, the ck seas following him and flooding thend, submerging all civilization, destroying all buildings, living beings weeping, the Divine Master silent.��


    ��Blood, bones, the red of demonic nature, crumbling buildings, dirty toys, debris, charred corpses, incinerators, hands in the soil, decaying metal����


    One apocalyptic scene after another shed in Menard and Leman��s eyes, not allowing them time to recover from such a massive influx of information, Ashe��s sword was already impatiently bidding them farewell.


    ��You����


    When they looked at Ashe, their minds conjured the image of the man walking amidst the apocalypse.


    Their images oveppedpletely, as if behind Ashe were the ck Sea, the corpses, the eternal dusk!


    He brought with him the disasters of the apocalypse!


    An indescribable fear choked the two agents, clogging their throats, pinching their noses, and squeezing their hearts!


    What Earth Magic, what Miracle, what Drone��they had forgotten these trivial matters, only thinking of getting away, hurrying to escape!


    ng!


    Ashe showed no mercy for the fear of his enemies, his sword slicing through Leman��s neck��during their brief encounter, this woman hadpletely ignored Ashe��s arrival. Plus, her gestures and gaze indicated that her task was to control the intelligent machinery!


    She was the key to this Battle!


    Blood, eager to escape its panicked host, nearly crushed her soul under the weight of suffocating fear, causing Leman to pass out instantly.


    Even as hispanion��s throat was cut, Menard had no intention of retaliating. Instead, he hurriedly carried Leman to the Hovercar on the balcony, then kicked the Hovercar fiercely, swiftly retreating in a hurried escape!


    Tap, tap, tap, tap��


    With the loss of the sorcerer��s on-site control, the Drones quickly fell, emitting weak cries like broken cicadas. Everyone looked at each other, realizing not only was no one missing, but there was even an additional petite and cute girl��though Harvey quickly sent her back to the coffin to continue sleeping.


    ��They escaped? What��s the casualty situation?�� Annan��s hand shed with purple light, and the Gun transformed back into an Amethyst Earring hanging on his ear.


    ��The man is fine, the woman��s throat was cut by me; it should take some time for her to recover,�� Ashe pondered. ��I don��t know why they suddenly became so frightened, could it be because I am a Swordcerer��?��


    Igor wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and chuckled palely, ��Are Swordcerers untouchables that should not be touched here?��


    ��Well done!�� Annan��s voice carried a hint of joy. ��With Leman injured, we can take this opportunity to leave in the Hovercar�� Banjeet!��


    ��Coming!��


    Arge Hovercar appeared outside the battered balcony. As its automatic doors opened, Ashe and the others realized that once again, it was time for a hasty escape. Due to the urgency, not only did theyck time to pack their bags, but Ashe was even still wearing slippers.


    He had little toin about, however, as Annan was still in his pajamas.


    ��Luggage����


    ��No time!��


    ��Wait, what about my coffin?�� Harvey looked distressed. ��That��s crucial equipment for me.��


    That was the biggest drawback of the coffin��it was terribly inconvenient to transport.


    ��Mr. Harvey, please leave it to me.�� Banjeet went over with a suitcase, opened it, stuffed the coffin inside, and then closed and lifted the suitcase. ��All set, let��s go.��


    Hmm?


    Hmmmm?


    Wait, was there something off about that��


    Everyone nced at the suitcase, but their bodies, governed by a dictatorship of survival instinct, allowed no room for curiosity. They could only keep their questions to themselves for the moment and squeezed into the Hovercar.


    The Hovercar quickly descended to the ground and drove off, allowing everyone to rx a bit��now, if the car exploded, they would at most burn or st to death, rather than die from falling.


    ��What��s next?�� Igor asked. ��If the rival firm dares to attack directly in the city, it means they are utterly indifferent to thew����


    ��Then let��s make them care!�� Annan dered. ��We��ll go to Red Cap. Red Cap is Azura��s strongest enforcement agency, and asw-abiding citizens, we can apply for special protection. Broken Home Firm wouldn��t dare attack Red Cap unless they want to risk total annihtion.��


    Ashe spoke up, ��I��ve been wanting to ask for a long time, why are they called Broken Home Firm?��


    ��Because their name is Moonlit Harmony Home, but the jobs they take usually end up ruining people,�� the Butler Youth exined. ��Though they��re not normally so violent, with their control over intelligent machinery, they have many ways to achieve their sinister goals without rming the Gospel.��


    ��Will Red Cap protect us?�� Harvey, naturally distrustful ofw enforcement agencies, asked, ��Are you sure they won��t cut a ��big deal�� with Annan like Broken Home Firm?��


    ��Red Cap is the mostw-abiding group. Any slight misstep is immediately reflected in their Ranking List standings,�� Annan responded confidently. ��As long as we don��t break thew, Red Cap is our best protection. Not to mention, I��m friends with Cleos from Weeping Red Cap����


    Suddenly, everyone��s Gospel popped open automatically and turned to the same page:


    ��Wanted Notice��


    ��Ashe Heath��


    ��Reward: 500,000 Points (alive) / 100,000 Points (dead)��


    ��Witnesses can contact Red Cap to report, rewards based on the validity of the information��


    ��Issuer: Empire Red Cap Headquarters, Signatory: Ewart Higgin.��


    Only Ashe��s page was slightly different��


    ��Red Cap Azura Golden Eagle Street Headquarters: ����


    ��Red Cap Azura Sea Soul Street Branch: ����


    ��Red Cap Azura Bear Wolf Street Branch: ����


    Damn, is this their way of persuading me to turn myself in?


    Lise spoke softly, ��Annan, you just mentioned Cleos����


    ��Yes, Cleos is my friend,�� Annan said. ��So she has already been hinting around in Curtain messages asking about my whereabouts. For a higher Ranking List position, she would definitely betray us.��


    ��Fortunately, you are already epted as citizens by the Gospel�� Even the Imperial Royal Family can��t use the Gospel to track you. In this game of cat and mouse, at least everyone starts from the same line.��


    ��So, we��re not only being hunted by the underworld firm but also wanted by thewful Red Cap?�� Ashe sighed, rubbing his forehead. ��I didn��t even get this kind of treatment during Blood Moon�� Characters in crime thrillers who offend both the underworld and thew usually don��t live long, right?��


    ��There are exceptions, like the producer.��


    Igor��s sarcastic remark turned out to be the warmest words of the evening.

 Chapter 284: Red and Black

    Chapter 284: Red and ck


    The former office of the Funeral Firm was now inplete disarray.


    Cleos, the ��Weeping Red Cap��, gentlynded on the balcony, the blue mes of her Yuheng Boots quickly extinguished.


    Although as a Sanctuary Sorcerer she had long been able to soar the skies with her wings, Red Caps start their Training with Yuheng flight from One Wing. Cleos, with over thirty years of experience in Yuheng, naturally preferred to tread the heavens with her feet.


    Azura, the foremost Red Cap, strode into the living room, parting the Moonlit Harmony Home Firm��s agents to make way for her.


    Several Red Caps followed her inside and saw the firm��s agents rummaging through everything. They immediately shouted, ��What are you doing? ording to����


    ��ording to the ��Public Safety Management Regtions��, when citizens apprehend a fugitive in an act of valor, we have the right to search the fugitive��s belongings for intelligence.��


    On the only red leather armchair in the living room, which had not beenpletely destroyed by Shot Bullets, sat an elderly woman. Her gaunt figure, minimal makeup that did not conceal her wrinkles, dark circles under her eyes, dry thin lips, and a in red shawl over a simple cloth dress�� Despite her negligent appearance care, her presence was undiminished.


    She closed the Gospel she held and said, ��Now that the Red Caps are here, you may hand over the scene to them. Children, put down what you are holding and do not disturb the work of the Red Caps.��


    ��Ina Aldo.��Cleos spoke coldly, ��When you attacked the Funeral Firm, the warrant had not yet been issued; even if you can search the fugitive��s belongings, the majority of the property here belongs to Annan Dn. Your Moonlit Harmony Home Firm has alreadymitted the crimes of illegal entry and destruction of property.��


    ��Is that so?��


    Ina slowly stood up, facing the tall Red Cap Elf, the gaunt elderly woman lifting her head to meet Cleos�� gaze.


    The atmosphere in the living room instantly tensed, filled with the scent of gunpowder. The firm��s agents and the Red Caps subtly unlocked the safeties of their Handguns, searching for the best shooting positions. This battered living room seemed poised to endure a second, even more brutal, assault.


    If anyone despised firms the most, it would undoubtedly be the Red Caps.


    For the Red Caps, firms were nothing but pests who often exploited loopholes in the Gospel, engaging in unsavory wet work, and frequently requiring the Red Caps to clean up their messes��such as the recent case of the Orc Sorcerer��s murder, which was clearly the handiwork of a firm.


    Among them, Ina from the Moonlit Harmony Home Firm, known as Baroness Cicada, was particrly loathed by the Red Caps.


    Unlike other more low-key firms, Moonlit Harmony advertised all over the city and hadmitted several shocking mass murder cases in Azura using their unique exploitation of legal loopholes. It was like spitting in the face of the Red Caps, yet the Gospel could not pin them down.


    The mostw-abiding Red Caps couldn��t find a single clue or even let off steam, and it would be odd if Cleos ever showed them a friendly face.


    But Baroness Cicada, Ina, was also a Tri-wings Sanctuary Sorcerer, and with her mastery of the Gospel��s loopholes, she had dominated Azura for decades starting from scratch. Despite having no official title, she was revered as ��Baroness���� Indeed, the Moonlit Harmony Home Firm was no lesser than the Red Caps.


    In the tense standoff, Cleos stood her ground, but the mist in her eyes thickened, as if she was about to burst into tears at any moment.


    Seeing this, Ina stepped back and flipped open the Gospel to a page: ��This is apensation contract between the Funeral Firm and the Moonlit Harmony Home Firm, which has been overdue for 26 years. Therefore, I am here as a creditor to enforce collection, not as an illegal intruder destroying property.��


    Cleos nced at it, her expression darkening: ��Lex Dn in July 1631 subscribed to the ��Communication Message�� service of Ashe Communication Company, and has failed to clear the service fees on time, now owing�� Hasn��t Ashe Communication Company gone out of business? It��s quite something that you managed to dig up this debt.��


    ��Adhering to thew is the foundation of our firm��s operation,�� Ina stated. ��If you��ll excuse me.��


    ��Wait,�� Cleos said. ��Bring in the person who ordered the attack on Ashe. The Red Caps need their cooperation for the investigation.��


    ��It is their honor.�� Ina did not refuse, beckoning Menard and Leman toe over: ��However, their spirits have been severely traumatized, and they need to go home to Rest. Therefore, they cannot return with you for the investigation. Ask your questions here��unless you can produce a warrant to assist in the investigation right now.��


    Cleos looked at the two men and realized that Ina was not merely stalling her.


    Menard and Leman were both draped in hot towels. Leman��s throat showed significant discoloration, clearly having just undergone emergency treatment. Yet, beyond their physical appearance, the terror deep in their eyes was the most ring wound.


    They did not look at Cleos, their gazes locked on some distant, intangible point, still immersed in their inner worlds, utterly unable to attend to the changes in reality.


    ��What happened to you?��


    It was like they had been pricked by a needle; the two shivered like frightened hamsters.


    They were not resisting Cleos��s questions, but were desperately trying to contain the monsters struggling to break free within them��monsters that had already corroded their minds, warped their worldviews, and tainted their nerves. The bloodshot in their eyes was a distress signal sent to the outside world from their self-awareness.


    Fleeing had not taken them out of danger; it had only plunged them more quickly into a nightmare.


    ��Ashe Heath����


    ��What?��


    ��Ashe Heath!��


    Menard clutched Cleos��s shoulders, and the Weeping Red Cap did not push away this nearly hysterical young man: ��Kill him, you must kill him, or it��ll be toote, toote!��


    Leman copsed weakly to the floor, and then a foul smell began to spread��she had urinated.


    Cleos��s expression remained unchanged: ����the influence of the Demonic Trench Coat and Twisted Mask?��


    ��Most likely,�� Ina said. ��But ording to the Art Ranking, the Demonic Trench Coat is supposed to prevent malice, and the Twisted Mask enhances first impressions and disrupts probing�� However, as you can see, there is a significant discrepancy between the Item descriptions and their actual effects.��


    ��Perhaps the Ranking List did not fully exin the rewards, or perhaps�� the Coat and Mask indeed have only those functions, but the presence of the holder has caused their power to undergo a qualitative change.��


    ��I was uncertain of which possibility it was,�� the elderly woman said. ��But since the Empire has issued a warrant, it means that the capital, Nabistin, already knows the correct answer.��


    Cleos gestured for Menard and Leman to be taken away and spoke calmly, ��Ina, what are you suggesting?��


    ��Let��s cooperate.��


    The Baroness��s voice was deep yet clear, rich but not muddled, slow yetpelling: ��The Mermaid adheres to neutrality and will never break the rules. Miss Dn has been running the Firm for many years; dealing with Red Caps is a basic upation skill for us�� You need us, and we need you.��


    ��What do you want?�� Cleos��s expression conveyed more disgust than her words.


    ��To exploit the Loophole Annan has discovered, to gain ess to those foreigners, to have a hand in the Weaving Festival,�� Ina exined. ��I have no intention of hiding my motives, just as you have never concealed your desire for the rankings��but we both know, these are merely our personal interests.��


    ��The Gospel is ourmon interest.��


    The city��s most formidable elderly woman enunciated every word: ��Without the Gospel, we are nothing. We are all children of the Gospel, thriving only because of its nourishment.��


    ��Now the Gospel is calling for our help, why should we not do our part?��


    ��Now it��s our turn to repay the Gospel.�� Cicada extended her hand to the Weeping Red Cap. ��Let��s save the world together.��


    Cleos was silent for a moment, then suddenly summoned her Gospel.


    The Baroness realized something: ��I��ve heard that Miss Dn and the Weeping Red Cap are friends����


    ��She is my best friend,�� Cleos dered. ��I cannot make this decision alone.��


    Soon, Cleos heard the answer from the Gospel.


    Tears quickly gathered in the eyes of the Weeping Red Cap, streaming down her cheeks, yet her smile was both sorrowful and joyful.


    ��Did the Gospel tell you to kill your friend?��


    ��No.��


    Cleos gently shook her head, grasping Ina��s hand.


    ��The Gospel only told me that if I could fulfill the Empire��s warrant, I could directly top the national Red Cap rankings.��


    ��As my best friend,�� Cleos sniffled, ��Annan will understand.��


    ��Because the Gospel says she must understand.��


    For the first time, the red and ck of Azura blended into a new color.

 Chapter 285: You Wont Even Call Me Dad

    Chapter 285: You Wont Even Call Me Dad


    ��Lise, stop moving around, or we��re all going to crash!��


    On the outskirts of Azura, the team from the Funeral Firm was embarking on a heart-pumping night ride.


    Yes, they were riding bicycles.


    After leaving the core urban area of Azura��also known as the edge of the Double-tiered City��Annan instructed everyone to dismount and then set the Hovercar free to escape in a different direction.


    ��Don��t get caught by those evil Humans again,�� Ashe thought as he watched the Hovercar disappear into the distance.


    It was understood, even without saying, that continuing to drive would only expose their exact location; they might even blow up while on the move.


    Although the secrecy protocols of the Gospel prevented direct tracking of Ashe and the others�� locations, it was possible to attempt tracing their vehicle. And since all automated vehicles utilize the Gospel��s data analysis, it was only a matter of time before things went awry, especially with the Moonlit Harmony Home Firm��s enthusiasts who loved meddling with others�� vehicles.


    Switching transportation was inevitable. However, now in the seventeenth century, not just in the Gospel, but even the Blood Moon Kingdom was pushing for transport automation. Thus, when they prepared to flee Azura, the only safe mode of transportation avable was��bicycles.


    Aside from single-rider bikes, there were options for two or three riders, and with a Holographic Screen mounted on the bike canopy showing images of Orc and Elf families enjoying a trip, it was clear these bicycles were meant for leisurely countryside excursions, not for escaping danger.It begs the question, is the Orc and Elf couple the officially endorsed model family by the Gospel?


    This turned the scene ratherical: everyone riding bicycles to escape the pursuit of the Red Cap and the firm, with Annan in pajamas and Ashe in slippers��


    Fortunately, there weren��t many vehicles on the highway outside the city core at night; otherwise, anyone seeing them might think they were some bizarrely assembled family.


    Ashe was responsible for carrying Lise. Although there were children��s bicycles avable, they were slow, and besides�� Lise couldn��t ride.


    So Lise had no choice but to sit on the back seat of Ashe��s bike. However, she seemed to think this was a spontaneous outing and couldn��t keep still, squirming around constantly. After scolding her, Ashe finally felt her settle down and he could breathe a sigh of relief. As he rode into the brisk night air, his mind wandered to their current predicament.


    Undoubtedly, the reason they had abruptly switched from a peaceful working life to a fleeing drama tonight was because of him.


    Although he hadn��t done anything, his very existence had been branded by the Gospel as a vition of public decency.


    Ashe still couldn��t figure out why he had appeared on the Art Ranking, and as an art piece no less��he could only be thankful that the creator was Annan and not Harvey. Although the Gospel had ranked his portrait first, making it look like it was from a fanatical admirer, it actually seemed more like a backhandedpliment.


    Even though the Gospel didn��t explicitly write that Ashe had done anything, the nine artworks ranked before him all depicted the Kingdom facing cmity. With his portrait ranked first, anyone with a bit of imagination wouldn��t see Ashe as a mere innocent bystander.


    He was either seen as a salvational Angel or the root of all evil��there were no other options.


    Clearly, the Imperial Core believed thetter, and Ashe tended to agree��not that he thought he had the mettle to save the world.


    But he didn��t really believe he was destined to leave behind a legacy of eternal infamy either; he simply felt his resume had been tainted by Annan and Eternal Cmity.


    Yes, Eternal Cmity��Ashe still remembered that colleague who didn��t know how to clean up after herself, leaving him with the new upation of ��Cmity Walker��. Ashe strongly suspected his appearance on the Art Ranking was probably due to ��Cmity Walker�� finally taking effect, triggering a ��critical moment Luck Check -50��, which led the Gospel tobel him as a disaster of this world.


    It was like a project going so badly that it split open, and an angry boss wanting to randomly fire someone to vent, so he just pointed at Ashe.


    Moreover, Annan was also highly suspect. ording to her, to disrupt the future narratives woven by the Gospel, she had been embellishing the resumes of Ashe and others. Although it was unlikely that the Gospel would believe it, what if it did?


    Now was that unlikely scenario.


    Who knows if Annan had added something like ��This is a never-give-up, passionate Sorcerer who is good at rallying partners and whose ideal is world peace and mutual understanding among all people����If that was the character setting, then Ashe being wronged by the Gospel wouldn��t actually be unjust at all.


    However, Ashe now had another problem to consider.


    Would Annan turn him in to ensure her own safety?


    Despite Annan��s rapid escape, she actually didn��t need to flee. If she agreed to cooperate with Moonlit Harmony Home Firm to develop Igor and others, the firm would immediately back her up.


    She had an exit strategy.


    But Ashe had nowhere to retreat. Now that the Imperial Core believed the Gospel��s nder, convinced that Ashe, a zero-star nobody, could indeed bring disaster to thend, once caught by the Red Caps, it would be a dead end for him. Even the Gospel��s talk of human rights wouldn��t help.


    Imprisonment? After a few years, he would surely harbor resentment and bring disaster!


    Exile? Being cast out would certainly breed anger and a desire for revenge!


    Once it was believed that Ashe��s future would only bring disaster, any path leading to that future would be seen as nourishing. The only way to save Ashe was to ensure he had no future.


    If it were someone else, Ashe would surely agree to sacrifice one for the happiness of many, but since the sacrifice was himself, he naturally wouldn��t just surrender.


    He needed to prepare for the worst��


    Snap.


    Ashe heard the sound of a safety being released, and then felt something hard pressing against his lower back.


    ����Is this how intense kids�� rebellious phases are these days?��


    But Ashe quickly realized why Lise was being so aggressive��the sound of an approaching Hovercar was putting a severe psychological burden on the escapees.


    They rode along a tree-lined path at the very edge of the highway. Even though it was night, the infrastructure of the Gospel Kingdom was so well-maintained that every ten steps there was a light, making the highway as bright as a cemetery during the daytime.


    However, Annan and the others didn��t make any special moves, waiting until the Hovercar passed. Banjeet then exined, ��That was a cargo truck, fully automated and unmanned. We haven��t been spotted yet.��


    ��But what about the travel monitors on the truck?�� Igor asked. ��If our movements were recorded����


    Annan��s decision to flee the city rather than stay and conduct guerri warfare in Azura wasrgely due to the abundance of surveince cameras in the city. Both the Red Caps and the Firm preferred to use the Gospel to ess surveince footage rather than directly pinpointing targets��after all, surveince cameras don��t have the same high level of confidentiality as natural persons.


    Once any traces of them were captured by the cameras, others could simply spend some Points to ess theirst known locations legally and legitimately, which was considered a right of citizens.


    ��This vehicle is heading to the second-tier city of Omidor. Even using the Gospel, people from Azura can��t cross cities to ess surveince data from Omidor. By the time they trace us, it will be the day after tomorrow at the earliest.��


    ��By then, we��ll already be in another city.��


    Annan rode her bicycle off the main road and onto a side path, with the others following. They quickly reached a small hill, or rather a slope, which was even shorter than the fir trees on either side of the road.


    ��This should be the ce����


    Annan signaled for everyone to dismount, then she and Banjeet started searching the area.


    With nothing else to do, Ashe nced at the handgun Lise was holding: ��Where did you get that?��


    ��I bought it from the Curtain,�� Lise replied. ��The ��Child��s y Armament Gift Pack.�� It came with ten boxes of shot bullets, a box of kitten shot bullets, a box of puppy shot bullets, and a very rare box of L Fatty shot bullets! Only one in ten packs contains them!��


    ��Do the special shot bullets serve any purpose?��


    ��They��re pretty! Biubiubiu! If you shoot someone with them, they��ll probably be happy, right?��


    ��Kids can buy guns from the Curtain and even have them delivered to their homes�� That��s more liberal than during the Blood Moon.�� Ashe reached out to lower the muzzle of her gun. ��Remember, don��t point the gun at people, and your safety is off�� Let me keep it for you.��


    ��No!��


    Lise showed a protective, animal-like expression, shaking her head firmly and clutching the handgun tightly. ��Lise needs the handgun to protect herself!��


    ��I will protect you. Have you forgotten our Contract����


    ��But you��re not really sincere, Dad.��


    As Ashe��s hand was swatted away, he blinked, the camaraderie built over the past few days of fun and leisure shattered with that single gesture.


    The young girl with white hair showed a trace of sadness on her face, looking down at her toes and whispering, ��You actually hate me, don��t you? It was me who insisted on pulling you into signing the Contract to protect me�� Who would want a daughter who only brings trouble?��


    ��If there was no danger, we could continue ying our father-daughter game,�� she said, gripping the handgun tightly. ��But the game is over now.��


    Harvey and Igor nced at them before turning to keep watch over the surroundings.


    Ashe looked at the small hedgehog in front of him, not particrly surprised.


    As Lise had said, their rtionship was merely a charade. Initially, Lise had only wanted to maintain a superficial father-daughter rtionship to deceive Miss Annan, but the days had been so peaceful that Ashe would turn his head whenever he heard the word ��Dad.��


    The illusion of peaceful times was shattered, and it was time to return to the harsh reality of survival.


    Nevertheless��


    Ashe crouched down in front of Lise, meeting her gaze.


    ��When you go to Aunt Bukin to get your hair braided, be nice,�� he advised. ��The trick is to tie an ugly braid yourself first; then she can��t stand it and will fix it for you.��


    ��Mm.��


    ��When you want to y games, Banjeet is your best choice, followed by Harvey. But remember not to go into his room when you pick Harvey.��


    ��Mm.��


    ��And when you approach Miss Annan����


    Lise couldn��t listen anymore; she grabbed his sleeve, tugging and twisting it.


    ��Aren��t you going to care about me anymore?��


    Ashe raised an eyebrow. ��Didn��t you say the game was over? From now on, we are strangers, at most bound by the Contract toe to your rescue if you��re in danger.��


    ��I didn��t mean it was over forever,�� Lise muttered.


    ��So what are you saying? Ashe when you need something, Daddy when it��s convenient, arade in danger, and a father when things are calm?��


    Lise fidgeted and pouted, ��Can��t it be like that?��


    Ashe responded, ��You already said you think I hate you, so why should I cooperate with you? You don��t listen to me; why should I listen to you?��


    Tears welled up in the little girl��s eyes as she pulled out a small mirror and looked down without speaking. After a while, she reluctantly handed over the handgun. Ashe reached for it, but it didn��t budge at first; he had to pull harder to take it from her.


    While examining the handgun, he asked, ��Have you learned any Gun Technique?��


    Lise didn��t reply, or rather, she refused to speak, her nose twitching. It wasn��t until Ashe asked a second time that she unhappily eximed, ��I haven��t learned!��


    ��Hmm��do you want to learn?��


    ��Hmm?�� Lise looked at Ashe, puzzled. ��Will you teach me?��


    ��I haven��t learned either; I can��t teach you.��


    Lise didn��t say anything, just gave Ashe a ��are you picking a fight?�� look. Ashe shrugged, ��But we could learn from Banjeet. Once things settle down, how about we go learn Gun Technique from him together? I wonder if Banjeet has any tricks marked ��definitely teach the kids someday������


    Lise also remembered Banjeet��s cab full of gamesbeled ��to y with the kids someday,�� and couldn��t help but giggle. ��Banjeet might let us y Gun Technique games.��


    As he ejected the Shot Bullets from the chamber and checked the safety, Ashe handed the handgun back to Lise under her astonished gaze. ��Unless it��s really an emergency, don��t use the handgun. Even if you don��t trust me, you should trust the Contract. Anyone who wants to harm you has to get past my Corpse first.��


    ����Aren��t you going to take it away?��


    ��You just said I wasn��t sincere, but in fact, it��s you who has never shown your true heart.�� Ashe reached out and ruffled Lise��s hair. ��You never trust that adults will protect you; you only trust yourself.��


    ��That��s really sad,�� he said softly. ��Just like Igor and Harvey.��


    Lise blinked in surprise, then shook her head forcefully. ��I am not pitiful!��


    ��Since you refuse to trust adults, then keep the weapon that can protect you. Lise, you are a smart kid, and I believe you know what��s important.�� Ashe smiled, ��But you��re too smart sometimes, so you might get things wrong.��


    ��What did I get wrong?��


    ��You said no one would want a daughter who only brings trouble. In fact, that��s true.��


    Watching Lise��s mood quickly drop, Ashe flicked her forehead gently: ��But there isn��t a single child who only brings trouble to adults.��


    Ashe couldn��t help but remember when he went back to his hometown, his older brother would alwaysin about the mischievous kids at home, hoping Ashe would discipline his nephew a few more times since visits were rare��after all, his brother��s wife and parents lived together, and with grandparents around, his nephew was as cocksure as a crab, walking sideways. His brother had been blocked several times from disciplining him, and a new belt bought for the purpose had never been used.


    However, when the two sat down for ate-night snack and chat, his brother couldn��t help but boast about his nephew entering somepetition, and showed Ashe photos from a family outing. Last Father��s Day, his nephew had given him a gift, and he was as thrilled as if he had drawn a rare card in a mobile game.


    Although Ashe had long be a cold, money-making worker, seeing the joy that he couldn��t hide on his brother��s face, he felt he could empathize.


    ��What do you mean?�� Lise, covering her forehead, was still puzzled.


    ��It means you won��t even call me ��Dad��,�� Ashe said, standing up with a smile.


    What used to be a casually spoken title now made Lise feel embarrassingly shy, but she kept clutching at Ashe��s sleeve.


    ��We��ve found it.��


    With Banjeet��s joyful voice, a doorway suddenly appeared on the hillside, leading to a staircase that went underground. Everyone quickly pushed their bicycles inside, and as they stepped down the stairs, the lights flickered on one by one, like a bted knocking that woke the sleeping host.


    When they reached the end, a fully equipped basement appeared before them.


    ��Atst, we can rest.��


    Annan let out a long sigh of relief, went over to lie on a makeshift sofa,zily rolled around a few times, then sat up and addressed everyone: ��Wee to my grandfather��s tomb.��

 Chapter 286: The Safe House Tomb

    Chapter 286: The Safe House Tomb


    Water trickled down a wless body, meandering through the grooves of the tiles, flowing into the Sewer.


    There was no shower gel, no shampoo, no conditioner, not even a facial cleanser��nothing at all, not even a showerhead, just a pipe spraying water downwards.


    It felt less like taking a shower and more like being caught in a downpour for Igor.


    Moreover, the bathroom was so small it couldn��t even amodate Igor with his arms extended. Even in Shattered Lake Prison, Igor had never been so destitute.


    However, Igor, who was fond of cleanliness, wasn��t too bothered at the moment. He quickly rinsed off the sweat from his body, then dried off with a rough towel and changed into casual clothes. The clothes didn��t fit perfectly, but it was not a situation to be fussy about.


    He returned to the main hall of the basement to find Harvey applying makeup to a coffin, using a brow pencil made of bone and a lipstick with a base of blood ink; Ashe was blow-drying Lise��s hair with a remarkably inefficient hairdryer; Banjeet was cooking ate-night meal by the stove, while Annan was flipping through the Gospel with a cup of hot milk in hand.


    ��Ha ha, everyone��s chatting, eh? I just dozed off and dreamed that Ashe and you, Annan, topped the Art Ranking. Then we had to flee Azura after an attack. I��m just waking up from it�� such a strange dream,�� Igor said as he picked a chair to sit on. ��And here we thought we were just here for a tomb excursion.��


    Annan closed the Gospel: ��Are you trying to hypnotize us?��


    ��Or maybe just myself,�� Igor replied. ��Escapism is thest tear of a Mind Sorcerer.��At that moment, Banjeet turned off the portable stove, brought over a te loaded with thick-cut steaks, white bread, cream sauce, mashed potatoes, and more �� quite avish spread for ate-night snack.


    ��Is there any wine?�� Annan suddenly asked.


    Banjeet nodded, opened his suitcase, and took out a bottle of wine along with five sses. He then added a slice of lemon to some water to make ice cubes and quickly mixed five sses of drinks.


    ��I tend to buffer my brain with a bit of alcohol when I encounter troubles,�� Annan said. ��I think you��ll enjoy this feeling��shut up if you have any objections, and let��s toast now!��


    ��This is workce harassment���� Ashe muttered, holding Lise��s head down as he took a ss and drank it in one gulp.


    The drink was smooth, fruity, and not at all spicy, leaving a pleasant aftertaste that was very enjoyable.


    ��Is there more?�� Harvey asked.


    ��Yes, but no more for you,�� Annan replied, his mood visibly lifted after a drink. ��This is a local craft beer from Azura called ��Pink Rabbit��. It��s very easy to drink too much because it goes down smoothly and tastes sweet. But you have to be careful, it can knock you out unexpectedly, so don��t overdo it.��


    Lise suddenly became anxious. ��I want some too!��


    ��Kids should stick to milk,�� Ashe said, pping Lise on the head.


    ��So, after we��ve bathed, drunk, and rested, we should also sort out our situation,�� Annan said, tossing his long hair back and sitting cross-legged on the couch. ��You all must have a lot of questions now. I��ll start by answering them.��


    ��First,�� Igor pointed to the suitcase next to Banjeet, ��is that an Item of space?��


    It was impossible to ignore the ordinary-looking suitcase��during their escape, Banjeet had stuffed Harvey��s coffin right into it; after arriving at this tomb, he had taken out the coffin, a portable stove, arge amount of food, dishes, utensils, and even a six-person set of clothes including underwear from it!


    Nobody would be surprised if Banjeet pulled an armored vehicle out of the suitcase next.


    No wonder Annan wasn��t concerned about them packing travel gear; the suitcase alone was enough to meet all their needs.


    ��Yes,�� Annan nodded, ��but it��s not what you think. Banjeet isn��t skilled in the space Faction�� This is Banjeet��s exclusive reward.��


    ��From thest Weaving Festival?��


    ��Yes,�� Miss Annan nodded. ��The suitcase isn��t as useful as you might imagine. It can��t hold items heavier than Banjeet��s weight, it can��t contain unsealed liquids, and there��s a cooldown time for putting things in and taking them out�� Decades ago, it might have been practical, but in this era of greatly developed transportation, a simple mobile storage doesn��t have much use.��


    She paused. ��It only really shows its value in a situation like fleeing.��


    ��So you had already prepared for escape,�� Igor noted keenly. ��But you weren��t nning to flee right now; you were waiting for the second Ranking List in Ten Years to be announced��anticipating that once we neers appear on the list, we would be targets. Fleeing was indeed the first movement in your n.��


    ��Correct. Around the 14th, I was nning to take you out of Azura and then quietly wait for the moment when the entire Kingdom of Gospel would be shocked by your four names,�� Miss Annan exhaled. ��But ns can��t always keep up with changes�� Ashe, although I don��t usually me fate or others, this time it��s really����


    Ashe immediately retorted, ��Don��t forget, Miss Annan, that you are the creator here, and I��m just your portrait model. If you round it off, I��m the real victim here!��


    ��This isn��t a tomb, is it?�� Harvey suddenly said. ��Tombs are for the dead, and this ce isn��t meant for the dead��I haven��t even smelled anything of the dead.��


    ��Of course you haven��t,�� Miss Annan shrugged. ��My grandfather was cremated long ago. But this ce is his tomb��at least nominally.��


    The Necromancer didn��t understand the intricacies here, but the Con Artist quickly caught on. ��To mislead the Gospel?��


    ��Seriously, given some time, Mr. Bukin could surely build an empire from scratch that rivals the Broken Home Firm,�� Miss Annan remarked. ��Indeed, while the Gospel knows everything about the Gospel Kingdom, there��s some leeway with specific names��like how I bought a residential house and turned it into an office space for the firm, but in the records of the Gospel, it��s still registered as ��Annan��s Residence��, not ��Annan��s Office��.��


    ��If you build a safe house without any approval, the Gospel willbel it as a ��personal basement.�� But if I buy thend under the guise of a tomb from the city nning bureau and transform it, it will be recognized by the Gospel as a tomb.��


    ��Even if I transform this ce into a safe house, in the database of the Gospel, it will still be shown as a tomb��after all, there��s no rule saying a tomb can��t be converted into this form. Now, the Red Cap and the Firm are certainly scouring the safe houses I prepared earlier, but they definitely won��t find this ce in the short term. For them, the priority of searching tombs is too low.��


    Speaking thus, Annan sped her hands together devoutly, praying, ��Grandfather, please bless this tomb with your fatty liver and pungent urine, drive away the beasts of civilization, and keep us away from danger.��


    It was evident that Annan��s grandfather did not have a peaceful life, his health was so poor that even the Medics did not bother to patch him up.


    Annan��s words were not difficult to understand, and her n was notplex, but everyone was still amazed by her meticulous thinking��only someone like Annan, who spent all day studying how to exploit loopholes in the Gospel, would know such bizarre methods.


    ��So,�� Igor sped his hands, ��what��s the n next?��


    ��It��s 2:11 AM now, and we need to move before 6:00 AM, which means we have about four hours to rest,�� Annan said. ��We need to split into two shifts for night duty.��


    ��The shift on duty needs to stay alert and must open the Gospel every five minutes to check for people within a 300-meter radius. Those off duty should enter the Virtual Realm and try to restore their spirits within two hours, as we need to continue on our journey early tomorrow morning.��


    The Gospel is not just a chaser��s de but also a fugitive��s iron shield. As long as you have enough Points, the Gospel does not care about your goodness or evil, fairly providing services that are worth more than they cost to anyone.


    Igor and others summoned their own Gospels, pondering�� their mode of operation was still stuck in the Blood Moon Version. If it weren��t for Annan, a member of the guide team for the Gospel Version, leading them, they would have been hit across versions by the Red Cap and the Firm long ago.


    Reconnaissance, attack, defense, logistics�� in the Kingdom of Gospel, almost all functions can involve the Gospel, and its power is no less than that of Sorcerer miracles. How to make good use of the Gospel is indeed the core essence of battle in the Gospel Version.


    Annan spread her hands, ��If there are no questions, then����


    ��What about Ashe?��

 Chapter 287: Ive Been Waiting for You

    Chapter 287: Ive Been Waiting for You


    Igor��s sudden question made Miss Annan slightly raise an eyebrow. ��What do you mean?��


    ��Miss Annan,�� Igor said leisurely, ��from the beginning, we epted your invitation, which is why we became members of the Funeral Firm. From the start, you never clearly exined to us the significance of the Weaving Festival��you didn��t even tell us that it was a life-risking adventure.��


    Miss Annan narrowed her eyes. ��I didn��t expect the first Ranking List to turn out����


    ��But now, Ashe��s interests have beenpromised because of your n.��


    Igor straightened his back, his gaze fixed on Miss Annan. ��His status as a foreigner is well-known, he is wanted by the Kingdom of the Gospel, and he��s even mistaken by the Gospel as a party to future cmities��Miss Annan, you surely aren��t suggesting that Ashe is to me for his current predicament, and that it has nothing to do with you?��


    Banjeet couldn��t help but interject. ��But our n hasn��t even started, and Ashe����


    ��It certainly has to do with me.��


    Miss Annan raised her hand to stop Banjeet, speaking calmly, ��If I hadn��t involved Ashe in this n, perhaps none of this would have happened��Mr. Bukin, is that what you mean?��


    Igor smiled slightly. ��I bear no resentment, Miss Annan, after all, I am not Ashe. But now a new problem has arisen, shouldn��t we discuss a solution?����How would you solve it?�� Miss Annan��s mouth curled up. ��Should I cancel the warrant for Ashe��s arrest? Or should I remove him from the Art Ranking?��


    The basement was silent. Banjeet and Harvey remained quiet, and Ashe and Lise clung to each other, shivering��the aura around Miss Annan and Igor��s negotiation was too intimidating; they dared not interrupt.


    ��How could I possibly force you, Miss Annan, to do these impossible things?�� Igor tilted his head. ��But since the problem can��t be solved, shouldn��t you at least��pensate Ashe for his losses?��


    What, could there bepensation?


    Ashe blinked, silently cheering for Igor.


    Miss Annan suddenly asked bluntly, ��If the person concerned here is Ashe, and Ashe hasn��t even spoken yet, why, Mr. Bukin, are you so eager to advocate for Ashe��s interests?��


    Ashe was taken aback, thinking, indeed, why would the Bewitcher plead on my behalf?


    Con Artist Igor lowered his eyelids. ��This time it��s Ashe, next time it might be me. If I don��t speak up for this fool now, who will speak up for the smart onester?��


    ��Oh��?��


    Annan��s expression was subtly amused: ��You think you are the smart one? I don��t think so; I think you are the fool.��


    Even Ashe thought that Miss Annan was a bit too harsh��You could say that Igor is as ugly as an Orc, eats like an Ogre, and bathes like Goblins, but you should never question his intelligence because that is his core strength!


    However, Igor did not retaliate but just quietly looked at Annan, seemingly disdainful of engaging in pointless arguments with her.


    ��


    Ask for the moon, settle for the earth.


    Naturally, Annan couldn��t actuallypensate Ashe for his injury. Not only was Ashe��s arrest warrant unrted to her, even if it were, it wouldn��t be as simple as Igor saying so��status is like a seesaw, one side goes up, the other must go down. If Annan bowed now, she would always have to bow.


    Kindness and weakness are difficult to distinguish twins, and Annan was more than willing to show her kindness, but not at the expense of appearing weak. Igor, Harvey, and Ashe were fugitives who had fled from other kingdoms; even if they hadn��t shown any brutal traits before, it didn��t mean they were good people.


    In the eyes of those working at the Firm, everyone is a potential murderer. Just a slight test of their humanity will reveal how fragile the rational daily life they maintain is. When they embrace reality, the harsh reality will pull them into the deep sea.


    Interestingly, this also reflects the Con Artist��s understanding of human nature: unless you are a god, you can be deceived, because Con Artists and gods share the same essence��they possess the ability to fulfill any wish.


    Thus, Annan and Igor had an understanding in their negotiations��do not test each other��s limits, and quit while ahead.


    The final result was that Annan signed a new contract with her employees. This contract contained only one use: under any circumstances, Annan must regard Ashe, Igor, Harvey, and Lise as importantly as she regards herself.


    The sole purpose of this contract was topletely eliminate any possibility of Annan betraying Ashe.


    Now, at least they didn��t have to worry about Annan leading Red Cap to Ashe.


    As for the duty shifts, since they needed to use the Gospel for surveince, Annan and Banjeet were each responsible for a shift. Ashe wanted to take the first half of the night, but Lise, who was the only one off duty, insisted on sleeping cuddled up with Ashe.


    ��Isn��t it usually about sleeping cuddled up with mom?�� Asheined while lying on the wooden bed: ��Why are you clinging to me����


    ��And where is my mom?�� Lise��s straightforward question was as sharp as ever.


    ��If you want a good experience, you can go to Annan; if you like them tall, you can go to Aunt Bukin. Lise, you��re a grown-up kid now, you should learn to find your own mom�� Sigh, do you want me to tell you a bedtime story?��


    ��No!�� Lise shook her head firmly, holding onto Ashe��s hand: ��This is fine.��


    Ashe looked at Lise, her eyelids drooping, feeling a bit envious��he had long outgrown the age of falling asleep whenever he wanted.


    Speaking of which, it was time to go to the Virtual Realm�� Hm?


    Wait!


    How do I go to the Virtual Realm?


    All my spirits are spoils of war, none of them are a childhood sweetheart pure love spirit!


    Ashe, who had never opened the Gate of Truth, was like a yboy with many lovers; it was great to be taken care of during the day, but at night, he couldn��t find his way home.


    And it was only now that he remembered��he had skipped tonight��s Exploration in Virtual Realm.


    Ashe quietly summoned the Gospel, turning to the page of the Sorcerer Handbook to see if the Witch and Swordswoman were already Exploring the Virtual Realm. But when he opened it, he found that the exploration team had already disbanded.


    ��Operator detected in story mode, team exploration temporarily suspended.��


    Operator in story mode�� Wait, am I an Operator too?


    With the team exploration suspended, everyone naturally went their own way. Ashe nced around and noticed that the Witch was not in the Virtual Realm, probably having finished her exploration and left; however, the Swordswoman was still there, so Ashe could also enter to have a look.


    But why is the Swordswoman��s exploration time longer than the Witch��s? Without a car, both the Swordswoman and the Witch could only walk. Logically, with more exploration experience, the Witch shouldst longer��


    However, Ashe didn��t overthink it and quickly chose to enter the Virtual Realm through the Swordswoman��s Gate of Truth.


    The Gate of Truth does not move with the Sorcerer, so Ashe could only arrive at the location where the Swordswoman was over two hours ago. He had no idea where she might have gone by now��


    As consciousness descended into the Virtual Realm, Ashe opened his eyes and found himself sitting in a sports car.


    Indeed, without team mode exploration in the Virtual Realm, the Swordswoman couldn��t borrow his sports car. This time she really had to measure the Time Continent on foot.


    He opened the Virtual Realm map, wanting to see the Swordswoman��s exact location. If she wasn��t too far, he��d drive over immediately.


    If she was far�� he��d still have to drive there. After all, he had ked tonight, and he owed her an exnation. Plus, Ashe alone couldn��t undertake an exploration of the Virtual Realm.


    For this Trespasser who had been illegally teaming up from the start, exploring the Virtual Realm with two people could be called an adventure, but doing it alone was more like wandering.


    However, as Ashe opened the map, he saw two Sorcerer icons close together.


    One was him, the Observer,


    And the other was��


    Ashe turned his head to look behind and saw a young girl on thewn behind the car, sitting with her legs hugged to her chest, her body rhythmically swaying as she hummed a song.


    The girl on thewn, Sonya, seemed to sense something and looked back.


    ��Why are you still here?��


    ��Because I was waiting for you.��

 Chapter 288: Small Horn

    Chapter 288: Small Horn


    Trampling through thorns, transmigrating through the Golden Rain.


    The sports car jubntly roared across the Time Continent. Ashe nced at the new block appearing on the Virtual Realm Map. Whenever a ��Worth a Visit�� or ��Time for a n Annihtion�� Battle block appeared ahead on the road, he immediately steered clear, keeping the sports car firmly on the ��Wasting Time�� route.


    Only if a Sorcerer Projection, an easy target, appeared on the road would Ashe reluctantly run it over.


    Tonight, it was just the two of them, not suited for Battle. Even if they fought, it would consume a lot of Soul Energy, better to broaden their exploration and see if they could encounter any special Virtual Realm structures.


    Besides, they weren��t in the mood for Battle tonight.


    The atmosphere in the car remained silent, but it wasn��t the awkward kind of silence. It was like someone who arrived hourste, only intending to pass by, but found their date still waiting for them��awkward, yes, but not ufortably so. Instead, there was an unspoken warmth in it.


    ��Small Horn,�� Ashe suddenly blurted out after a long silence.


    ��What?�� Sonya couldn��t believe her ears. ��What did you say?��


    ��I said you��re a Small Horn.��Having been through numerous heated debates on the School Forum, Sonya had elevated her Faction in arguing to a higher level: when someone insults you, never just deny it, hit back; and hitting back had three levels��the lowest is tit-for-tat, the middle is tailoredeback, and the highest��


    Act rather than talk!


    Sonya immediately grabbed Ashe��s ear, ��Oh, so you dare to insult me today, what dare you do tomorrow, I can��t even imagine!��


    ��Hey, hey, I��m driving, there��s a ying Fish-Dragon crossing ahead!��


    ��Why are you insulting me!��


    ��How��s calling you stupid a problem?��


    ��How am I stupid?��


    ��You��ve been waiting here for over two hours, isn��t that stupid enough?�� Ashe raised his voice. ��Lucky for you, the Time Continent doesn��t have ��Eviction Secret Poison��. If this were the Sea of Knowledge, you��d have been devoured by Knowledge Creatures by now!��


    ��I��m not stupid!�� Sonya retorted, ��Do you think I��m like you, jumping into the Virtual Realm without anymon sense? Since the day we parted, I��ve been studying the knowledge of the Time Continent every day, memorizing the critical aspects of the Time Continent, the mechanisms of the Virtual Realm, and various strategies for dealing with Knowledge Creatures�� Of course, I knew it was safe to wait for you!��


    ��How could it possibly be safe?�� Ashe almostughed in exasperation: ��I was just looking at the Map, and the White Bull is already far from you, and the Static Domain will catch up with you in less than an hour!��


    ��I would definitely leave the Virtual Realm before the Static Domain arrives!��


    ��What if you didn��t notice it? You��ve said before that the Static Domain is silent; by the time you realize it��s there, you won��t be able to escape!��


    ��I can still get away.��


    ��But you didn��t have to take such a risk!�� Asheined. ��I didn��t ask you to wait; you could have just continued Exploring the Virtual Realm normally. Why put yourself in danger? Am I wrong to call you foolish?��


    Thump!


    This time Sonya really got angry and gave Ashe a solid thump, making him feel his Soul Energy scatter a bit��You��re a Swordswoman, not a boxer, why do you hit so hard!?


    ��You still have the nerve to criticize me,�� Sonya said fiercely. ��We agreed to meet at 12:30, and I was the only one who showed up! You didn��t even leave me a car or a note!��


    ��I used to think you at least kept your word, but now I��ll never trust you again, you big liar!��


    ��This was an ident within the margin of error!�� Ashe countered. ��I suddenly had somethinge up tonight; it wasn��t intentional. It was two hourster by the time I settled everything, and here I am, joining you right away, aren��t I?��


    ��So what happened? Tell me something that will make this Swordswoman happy?��


    ��I can��t say.��


    Annan��s Contract sealed Ashe��s lips like a gag.


    ��Will there be a next time?��


    ��Most likely,�� Ashe thought about the current situation at the Funeral Firm. ��I might even be unable toe to the Virtual Realm for several days in a row.��


    ��So you mean,�� Sonya squinted her eyes, ��you can��t exin the reasons, but you need to keep taking leave?��


    ����Yes.��


    Ashe answered, feeling quite aggrieved��what a world this was! He was the financier of the team, after all. How had hee to be scolded by an Operator? As an investor, wasn��t it natural for him not to do the work, especially since he had a legitimate reason, albeit one he couldn��t disclose?


    He quietly awaited the next round of scolding from the Swordswoman, but after a while, she remained silent.


    ��I��ll try to leave the car for you next time���� Ashe said, ��Though I can��t lend out the Map, having the car should help you maintain a rapid increase in arcane energy����


    Suddenly, Sonya asked, ��Is it more dangerous than escaping from prison?��


    Ashe paused for a moment: ��A bit more dangerous, yes.��


    ��Huh.��


    With Sonya��s indistinct chuckle, the atmosphere fell silent again.


    After they finally defeated their first Sorcerer Projection of the night, Sonyamented, ��This is so boring.��


    ��Why don��t you sing a song?��


    ��Don��t you have any life experiences to share?��


    ��I do, but I can��t talk about them,�� Ashe shrugged. ��If I must, I can only speak in the manner of the Riddler.��


    ��Oh?�� Sonya��s interest was piqued, ��What��s the riddle method?��


    ��Let��s say, for instance, I��ve be somewhat famous,�� Ashe pondered and then continued, ��Not only do I have to deal with the risk of being sexually harassed by a boss, but there��s also someone new in my life who I need to protect with my life����


    ��Who is this person?��


    ��Can��t say.��


    ��A woman?��


    ������


    ��A woman under 30?��


    ������


    ��A woman under 22?��


    ������


    ��A woman under 18?!�� Sonya was shocked, ��Observer, how old are you even? It��s disgraceful, and you even����


    ��It��s not what you think!�� Ashe was exasperated, ��And why aren��t you asking about the boss harassing me? Don��t you care about that at all?��


    ��Because that��s definitely not the same as you described,�� Sonya was quite certain.


    ��In any case, although I really want to share with you the things I��ve been dealing with recently, I just can��t,�� Ashe said. ��Once all this is over, I��ll slowly tell you the stories from these past days.��


    ��Then I��ll look forward to it.��


    Sonya, gazing at the Reverse Golden Rain outside, suddenly mentioned, ��A couple of days ago, Wind Crane reached out to me��you can think of them as a guild that produces songs for Songstresses��they want to tailor a battle song specifically for me. If there��s enough time, it might even be the theme song for this year��s Intercollegiate League!��


    ��And then there��s Senior Sister Sylvia��you might have forgotten who she is��thanks to her rmendation, I��ve sessfullynded a role in a prime-time drama. It��s not the lead role, and it��s a viin role, but it��s roughly equivalent to the second female lead!��


    ��Looks like your big break ising!�� Ashe eximed. ��If you y it well, a viin��s impact on the Audience can be just as memorable as the hero��s!��


    ��I think so too!�� Sonya nodded and scoffed, ��Hmph, those Nobles really aren��t up to any good. My reputation has been rising, and while they want to capitalize on my fame, they look down on my background and are unwilling to offer me any good roles. So, they stick me with a viin role, hoping I��d embarrass myself and earn a bad name�� But no matter, disappointing my enemies is something I never fail at!��


    Ashe never doubted the Swordswoman��s capabilities��her rebellious spirit, born from humble beginnings, radiated an indomitable confidence, as if there was nothing in the world that could crush her spirit.


    Perhaps that might have been the case in the past, since the Swordswoman was ultimately a lone Weakling. But now, her weaknesses had beenpensated for by Ashe.


    She would neither be weak nor alone.


    Ashe suddenly remarked, ��Feels like it��s been a long time since we��ve had a moment alone like this, hasn��t it?��


    ����Yes.�� The rustic girl lowered her eyelids, ��With the Witch around, there are some things I just don��t feelfortable discussing with you. It��s not that I want to keep secrets from her, it��s just�� it would be a bit embarrassing.��


    ��Ha!��


    ��What��s so funny?��


    ��No, I��m notughing at you; I actually understand how you feel quite well,�� Ashe said with a smile. ��It��s like a delicate, blooming flower. The Witch only sees your beautiful petals, so you want to keep up your dignity around her. But I��ve seen your roots hidden in the soil before you bloomed, not beautiful, so you feel more rxed around me.��


    In simpler terms, it��s like thebel that fits everyone once you get to know them: ��cold on the outside, chatterbox once you��re familiar����most people are indeed like that, maintaining a good image when they first meet someone until they know each other well enough to reveal their quirks.


    ��So you��re saying I��m just a pretty girl with no substance?��


    ��You make ��pretty girl with no substance�� sound so worthless���� Ashe muttered. ��But I don��t think you need to be so stiff around the Witch�� First of all, the Witch isn��t the type to look down on you because of your background.��


    ��Secondly, those muddy roots you want to hide are actually quite cute.��


    The Swordswoman looked at him without saying a word. Ashe shrugged and said, ��Of course, I��m just making a suggestion. I��m already very satisfied with the atmosphere in our small team; it doesn��t matter if we don��t continue to strengthen our bond. If you prefer the time we spent together in the Boat on the Sea of Knowledge, I can understand that����


    ��Alright then.��


    ��Huh?��


    ��Thinking about it, talking about girly stuff with a smelly man like you does seem a bit inappropriate,�� Sonya said, resting her chin in her hands. ��It��s about time I found a new best friend.��


    ��First of all, I��m not smelly, and second����


    ��You��re not a man?�� Sonya instinctively used debate tactics from the School Forum.


    After a bit of Small horn-level bickering, the rustic girl emerged victorious.


    Watching the driver��s disgruntled face, Sonya suddenly said, ��We��ve already left the Sea of Knowledge.��


    ��Huh?��


    ��So, the time of just the two of us teaming up is over. Next, it��ll be teams of three, four, five�� The team will grow bigger, and we��ll be stronger.��


    ����Yes,�� Ashe replied, looking at her in the rearview mirror. ��That��s exactly my n.��


    ��I��ll help you,�� Sonya said. ��Although I might not be too keen on it, I will help because the stronger our team gets, the more efficient our explorations will be, and the more benefits I��ll gain.��


    ��And you��ll gain more benefits too.��


    Ashe looked at Sonya, surprised, while the Swordswoman stared at the Reverse Golden Rain outside, her eyes sparkling.


    ��My life is full of color��singing, acting,peting. Don��te to me for help with real-world problems; I��m neither free nor capable,�� the rustic girl said softly. ��However, if you really must, and you��re willing to kneel and beg, I guess I could help you out more in the Virtual Realm.��


    ��Kneeling is out of the question. In my world, we only kneel when Praying for a Miracle,�� Ashe replied with a smile. ��But I��ll reluctantly ept your grudging offer of help.��


    ��Hmph, now we��re really in cahoots.��


    ��Just remember not to do something foolish like waiting for others in the Virtual Realm again��it really lowers our average IQ.��


    ��Mind your own business, Small horn.��


    Lise felt her cheek wet and wiped away the drool, turning over to continue sleeping. Through her haze, she saw the corners of Ashe��s mouth slightly turned up.


    Lise mumbled to herself, ��Dad��s smiling so happily. Is he having a good dream?��


    ��Maybe it��s the training before going to Prison,�� Deya suggested. ��He knows the Red Cap will catch him sooner orter, so he wants to keep a positive attitude����

 Chapter 289: Escape

    Chapter 289: Escape


    Buzz!


    A sports car thundered across the highway, its engine howling like a husky as it shredded the scattered sunlight filtered through the treetops. The wild rush contrasted sharply with the elegant silence of the passing Hovercars.


    ��Are we really not going to draw attention like this?�� Igor, sitting in the passenger seat, was visibly anxious. ��It��s like a disheveled old man going through withdrawal suddenly appearing in a rose-colored university campus��do we have to take the highway?��


    Annan shrugged as he drove, ��Taking back roads makes it easier to be spotted, unless you��re covered in crap; nobody walks them. Besides, driving in non-motorizednes vites trafficws. The Baroness and the Red Caps would just need to check who��s been muddying up with their cars to find us.��


    ��Driving this old clunker will indeed draw attention, but not in the way you imagine.��


    ��In an era dominated by automated Hovercars, manually operated vintage cars are still cherished by many. Nothing screams ��noble taste�� quite like nostalgia.��


    ��Plus, this Uz Extinguishing Dragon is a special model modified by my father,�� Annan added with a slight smile. ��At night, the dragon patterns on its exterior flicker and light up, making anyone who sees it think the average age of its passengers is under twenty.��


    Igor raised an eyebrow, ��Your father��s modified sports car, why was it in your grandfather��s tomb?��


    ��Because my grandfather despised my father��s fascination with sports cars, and my father��s favorite pastime was to piss on his enemies�� corpses��I don��t mean that literally, but you get the idea.����Say, rather than worrying about how stylish we look, could we first consider thefort of the passengers?�� grumbled Ashe from the back seat, grimacing. ��We��re practically squeezed in here!��


    At 6 a.m., the group from the Funeral Firm departed promptly from Annan��s grandfather��s tomb. This time, however, they were not on bicycles, as the tomb housed a Uz Extinguishing Dragon sports car, which served as their escape vehicle.


    As an escape tool, they couldn��t be too demanding of the sports car. After all, it had been decades, and the mere fact that the car could still run was a testament that deserved a three-second silent tribute to the automakers swept away by the tide of automated vehicles.


    However, the ancestors of the Dn Family, seemingly confident in their dwindling numbers, had the sports car designed as a standard four-seater, leaving no room for anyone even slightly overweight.


    With six of them, Annan, always keen on appearing approachable, couldn��t possibly squeeze in withborers; she took the wheel. The co-driver seat was determined by a dice game, and Igor, who ��never cheats,�� managed to outy everyone.


    Initially, Lise was supposed to be held by Aunt Bukin, but Lise, with her eyelids drooping, insisted on clinging to Ashe, who ended up holding her and squeezing into the back seat with the Necromancer and the Butler Youth��unfortunately,cking the aroma of leek buns, otherwise Ashe could have dreamt of rushing for the subway at 8 AM.


    ��Endure it,�� Igor said. ��You��re the biggest here and stillining, while these two haven��t even spoken.��


    ��Banjeet, can you fit a person in your suitcase? I suggest we start with the one with the foulest mouth to clean up the air inside the car����


    Compared to Ashe, who only knew how toin, Harvey had a zest for life: ��The sun is quite nice today.��


    ��Indeed,�� Banjeet nodded. ��It��s a good day for a big cleanup.��


    ��Could we stop around noon? I��d like Alice to get some sunlight.��


    After a brief silence, Annan spoke up, ��There��s something I��ve wanted to ask Mr. Harvey sincest night, just wasn��t sure if I should.��


    ��Go ahead,�� Harvey seemed in a good mood despite the escape. ��Just don��t ask what I do during showers.��


    Putting other matters aside, Ashe felt Harvey had a natural Talent for storytelling��how could he effortlessly pique someone��s curiosity with just a remark?


    ��The�� partner you weremanding yesterday, was that the Corpse I took you to buyst time?��


    ��Yes, Alice was a gift from you.��


    ��But I remember,�� Annan��s expression wasplex, ��the Corpse I bought�� was male.��


    At this revtion, Ashe, no longer minding the cramped space, urgently squeezed towards Banjeet, attempting to establish a no-contact boundary with Harvey.


    ��It was indeed male at first,�� Harvey nodded. ��But after listening to Ashe��s advice, I made somest-minute modifications��being a Necromancer, a bit of Bio-modification makes sense, right?��and so Alice was born.��


    Ashe was taken aback. ��What advice did I give you?��


    ��Sexual Function and Functionality,�� Harvey replied. ��I realized I had previously focused too much on the functionality of my partner, neglecting the potential of the Corpse��s sexual functionality.��


    ��For example, typical Corpses are menacing in appearance, pale-faced, oozing from their bodies, and massive in size, which can intimidate and pressure enemies on a sensory level. However, this style of intimidation only really scares ordinary people; normal practitioners, like you Ashe, aren��t frightened by Corpses, right?��


    ��How could I be!�� Ashe��s voice rose an octave: ��I��m not even afraid of the living, why would I be scared of the dead?��


    ��Ashe is afraid of terrifying Corpses�� �� Annan, Banjeet, and Igor quietly noted to themselves.


    ��But after hearing your thoughts, Ashe, I was deeply inspired and decided to take a different approach �� dressing the Corpse in a way that could arouse desires. The allure of the Corpse, contrasting sharply with itsbat abilities, would then����


    Ashe understood: ��Stir up fear in the enemy��s heart?��


    ��No!�� Harvey��s voice was buoyant, sunlight reflecting in his pupils, making it unclear whether he was fanatical or radiant: ��The enemy will surely be captivated by this beautiful power, realizing that Necromancy is the Magical Faction that will bring happiness to everyone, and then be the minions of Haagen-Dazs����


    ��Who is Haagen-Dazs?�� Ashe asked.


    ��A legend passed down among us Necromancers, a great being that imparts souls to the dead,�� Harvey looked at Ashe. ��Interested in learning about the benevolent and great Haagen-Dazs? Our Necromancy Faction isn��t a religion, but it��s definitely more thrilling than any religion����


    Igor exined calmly, ��Historical Magical Factions all tend to create a ��great being��, which might be an evolution of a Legend sorcerer��s tale or perhaps the past glory of a lost Divine Master. For instance, in our Mind Faction, there��s said to be a great being called Madara, a collective consciousness of all living beings, whose vertical pupil on his forehead can make the world dance at his will. However, Mind Sorcerers generally don��t fall to the point of following a cultural symbol.��


    Necromancers didn��t care about the Con Artist��s provocations; they had been squabbling now and then since the Escape n��really, everyone had argued with Igor at some point, as only customers could enjoy the spring breeze of his attentiveness��if Igor was burning ice, Harvey was a cold flowing fire, who disliked hurting others, preferring instead to set others aze, making them torches like himself.


    ��So, you mean to use a beautiful girl to spark interest in the Necromancy Faction?��


    ��Yeah, isn��t that what you taught me?��


    Although that wasn��t exactly what Ashe meant at the time, Harvey��s ��beautiful girl �� attract attention�� strategy subtly fit the mobile game model.


    ��Then why turn men into beautiful girls?�� Annan expressed politically correct dissatisfaction. ��Can��t beautiful boys work?��


    ��I personally think men ying women are more charming.��


    ��Why is that?��


    ��Because I have a living example right by my side.��


    Everyone looked towards Igor, the co-pilot. The Con Artist hadn��t expected this to turn on him, but he wasn��t flustered: ��You��ve got some taste.��


    After all, if the intended target doesn��t feel humiliated, then the attempt at humiliation loses its effect.

 Chapter 290: Information Barrier

    Chapter 290: Information Barrier


    At this moment, the Uz Sports Car hadpletely left Azura��s city circle and ventured into the suburban farm areas. On both sides of the roady vast expanses of fertile farnd, already bustling with agricultural machinery tilling the soil early in the morning.


    Ashe nced over and saw a vigeposed of low, t houses in the distance��though there were some that reached two or three stories, they seemed like remnants of an old erapared to the advanced Double-tiered City. However, the fields were vibrant with young Orcs operating machinery akin to tractors, exuding a youthful vigor.


    ��Are there so many young people in the countryside?�� Ashe wondered aloud. ��I thought most young people would head to big cities to work.��


    ��How could that be?�� Annan replied nonchntly. ��In the Gospel Kingdom, 80% are production viges. Even with advanced alchemical machinery, industries like livestock, fishing, and mining still require human hands. The prosperity of the top ten cities is built on the support from all these other viges.��


    ��Why don��t the young people leave then?�� Igor asked. ��Rural life can��t possibly be better than the cities, right? There��s not even a Drone in the sky here.��


    Ashe frowned, ��Don��t mention Drones; Lise would be scared.��


    Annan raised an eyebrow, ��Curious, are you?��


    ��Not exactly curious, just that Blood Moon also went through such a phase,�� Igor said calmly. ��Aspiring for prosperity is a natural instinct. To make thebor force understand their ce, the Blood Moon Kingdom has indeed expended much effort.��


    Pondering for a moment and as they passed a field, Annan slowly pulled over and called out to a young Orc working thend: ��Hello.��Annan, who could rank in the top ten of any Beauty Ranking across Races, transcended racial boundaries with his charm. The Orc youth scampered over, scratching his head sheepishly, too nervous to even greet properly.


    ��Do you watch JoyHeart?�� Annan asked.


    At this, the young Orc rxed, ��Yes, I do! I even have the rank of Count with three thousand Heart friends!��


    ��That��s great. I��m from Culture Limited Media, and I��m conducting a field survey on JoyHeart user preferences to research advertising segments. Could I take a look at your recent JoyHeart video history?��


    The Orc youth readily agreed and summoned his Gospel to show the exiles.


    ��Clean and Sanitary��


    ��Handsome Orc Spends a Day Making Big Bone Sauce��


    ��13 Life Hacks You Can��t Miss��


    ��Top 10 Attractions in Moro Vige��


    ������


    ��Thank you very much for your cooperation,�� Miss Annan said as she took out the bottle of wine they had drunk the previous day. ��Here��s a little gift for you.��


    ��Thank you,�� the Orc youth curiously took the bottle. ��What kind of wine is this, Pink Rabbit? I��ve never seen it before. Can I exchange it for Throat-Piercer from our vige?��


    ��I��m sorry, I��ll remember that, and next time I��ll bring your preferred brand,�� Miss Annan replied with a smile, leaving the Orc youth utterly enchanted. ��Goodbye, and may your day be blessed by the Gospel.��


    Watching the Orc youth who lingered for a long time, Ashe teased, ��Miss Annan, you��ve easily ruined another person��s marriage.��


    ��Did you all understand?�� Miss Annan asked.


    ��Understand what?�� Ashe couldn��t keep up with Miss Annan��s train of thought.


    ��The Barrier of Information?�� Igor asked thoughtfully. ��But we��re not far from Azura. You could almost see the Double-tiered City on the horizon. Could they really be trapped by an information barrier?��


    ��It��s much easier than you think,�� Miss Annan stated. ��The Gospel��s Barrier has no Loopholes.��


    Knowing the others in the back hadn��t understood, Igor exined, ��The videos the Orc usually watches are all from other viges and towns, none about the big cities like Azura. Plus, the Pink Rabbit beer that Miss Annan was drinking is a well-known brand in Azura, yet the Orc farmer had no idea about it. This leads to a conclusion �� although the Orc has received a medium level of education, his worldview ispletely limited to his vige; he is totally unaware of the bustling city life.��


    ��Perhaps in his eyes, Azura, just a few dozen kilometers away, is nothing more than a slightlyrger vige, not worth aspiring to. He feels his current life is already good. To him, those richer and more powerful than he merely don��t have to work in the fields and can afford to spend their days ying JoyHeart in bed.��


    ��By the way,�� Annan said, ��people in the city don��t use the JoyHeart app. Even farmers from regions outside Azura use locally customized information apps. JoyHeart is exclusive to areas below the second-tier cities of Azura.��


    Information gulfs, information curtains, information cocoons.


    Perhaps there are many names, but the meaning is the same �� blocking your channels of information ess, allowing you to receive only partial and biased information, thus shaping your shallow and narrow worldview.


    The principle is simple, the method uplicated, but the consequences are terrifyingly chilling.


    Ashe couldn��t help but shake his head, ��How is that possible? It would be one thing if they were uneducated, but doesn��t every citizen here receive a middle-level education? How could they be so easily deceived����


    At this moment, Lise had woken up and was hanging on Ashe like a ko, quietly listening to their discussion.


    ��I don��t know what it��s like in your Blood Moon Kingdom,�� Annan said calmly, ��but don��t forget, we have the Gospel.��


    The Gospel.


    A term they had heard countless times over these days, again demonstrating its importance as vital as air, sunlight, and water.


    ��The ss barriers that you exhaust all your wisdom to establish are merely sandcastles to the Gospel. In the social system of the Gospel, it��s not just between sses, but there should be information gulfs between every region, every vige, every family, and even every individual.��


    ��As long as I don��t know about your extravagance, and you don��t know about my vulgarity, everyone can happily coborate within the Kingdom of the Gospel, and the regional, racial, and ss conflicts that should erupt are dissolved by the Gospel.��


    ��Everyone has their own social position and must adhere to it. Perhaps greed, fear, jealousy, anger, these emotions might lead to irrational decisions, but that��s okay, the Gospel teaches everyone from a young age to be rational and to ovee temptations.��


    ��Even if you truly can��t do it, it doesn��t matter, the Gospel will help you ��block�� those pieces of information that might contaminate you. As long as your world is narrow enough, that faint light can illuminate everything for you.��


    ��What better lubricant for the social machine than lies and ignorance?


    At that moment, a highway bridge resembling a road to heaven appeared ahead. This was no mere concrete structure; the surface of the bridge glowed with a pale blue halo, exuding a high-tech, avant-garde feel. The halo formed words representing three directions: ��Hemera,�� ��Astra,�� and ��Fanm.��


    ��Hold on tight, we��re about to speed up.��


    Annan said cheerfully as he drove the old sports car onto the bridge. As the distance increased, the passengers noticed the car��s speed elerating rapidly, almost as if it were going to fly off the bridge!


    ��A miracle?�� Ashe eximed.


    ��This is a miracle constructed by a team of civil sorcerers,�� the Butler Youth said with a smile. ��This Skybridge leads to other first-tier cities. Once you drive on it, the speed increases to the point of breaking the sound barrier, as if the bridge itself is moving forward. It��s the fastest mode of transportation in the Gospel Kingdom.��


    Ashe held Lise, looking through the car window at thend below.


    The farnds were neatly organized, and houses were densely packed. However, raising one��s gaze a little, one could see the bustling double-tiered city of Azura.


    The sun was high in the sky, with sunlight so brilliant it was dazzling, heralding another day filled with hope.

 Chapter 291: Everyone on the Street is Watching You

    Chapter 291: Everyone on the Street is Watching You


    As the sun set, the vintage car also descended from the Skybridge.


    The Double-tiered City was now within reach on the horizon, but it was different from Azura.


    If Azura��s double-tier resembled arge umbre standing on the earth, this Double-tiered City looked like it was still under construction, with several smaller umbres scattered about. The entire city appeared to be loosely assembled.


    Yet, more than its architecture, another detail caught the attention of outsiders.


    When the sports car stopped at the edge of the city, Ashe couldn��t help butment, ��Is it quite foggy here?��


    Even at dusk, the city was enveloped in white mist, making the warm yellow lights even more ambiguous. However, this mist didn��t feel creepy but rather added a blurry filter that gave the city a dreamy beauty.


    Harvey sniffed and ced an unlit Catnip Cigarette in his mouth.


    ��The mist is a local specialty of Fanm. I wasn��t used to it either, but we��re only here for a few days, so let��s bear with it.�� Annan signaled everyone to get out of the car and then sent the antique vehicle to its rightful ce��the nearby dump.


    In the city, continuing to use the vintage car was unthinkable. In a city highway dominated by Hovercars, a vintage car was like dissonance in ssical music, jarring enough to attract Red Caps to knock on your window and use you of maliciously disrupting city traffic.��Are we going to ride bicycles again?��


    ��No, this time it��s an automatic scooter.��


    Like in Azura, there were rental transport sheds in the outskirts, but unlike Azura��s healthy cycling, Fanm seemed to prefer stylish outdoor Entertainment. Thus, everyone stood on scooters and leisurely entered the misty city.


    ��By the way, Ashe, put on your cloak,�� Annan suddenly remembered. ��Without my order, you are not to take off the cloak unless you��re bathing, and you must wear it even when Meditating into the Virtual Realm.��


    ��Do I need to wear it in the safe house too?�� Ashe asked, puzzled. ��I understand the need for a cloak to conceal my identity, especially since I��m the only one wanted by the Empire��s Red Caps�� but once we��re settled, shouldn��t I be able to take it off?��


    ��No, have you forgotten your Demonic Trench Coat?�� Miss Annan shook her head. ��I��ve thought it over, and the two from Broken Home Firm retreated too quicklyst night. It��s unlikely that they were scared off by you, so it must have been because of your Demonic Trench Coat.��


    ��Miss Annan, promise me, don��t turn into a Riddler like Igor,�� Ashe pleaded.


    Igor responded softly, ��If you don��t understand, just say my riddles are confusing�� Maybe Gospel is right, letting you immerse yourselves in blissful ignorance isn��t such a bad thing.��


    Miss Annan shook her head again: ��What I mean is, your Demonic Trench Coat might intimidate those who see you for the first time. The effect depends on the difference in Realm levels within the Mind Faction, meaning even Sorcerers with Two Wings or Tri-Wings might be at a disadvantage.��


    ��Therefore, your Demonic Trench Coat could be a crucial ace up your sleeve, and you mustn��t let anyone easily see your true face under the cloak until the critical moment.��


    ��Howe you make it sound like I��m some femme fatale who resorts to stripping when in trouble���� Ashe muttered as he put on the fully covering cloak, looking more like a fugitive than ever.


    Lise gleefully rode the scooter, although she had never used one before. Clearly, scooters were more appealing to children than bicycles, and she quickly mastered how to use it, joyfully leading the way as if on a pic.


    As she passed two pedestrians, both suddenly turned to look at her.


    One was a dark-skinned Human and the other a green-skinned Lizard Person. They seemed not to know each other, but they simultaneously turned their gazes toward the white-haired little girl.


    Lise immediately retreated to stand next to Ashe, but as their group passed, the two locals still performed a salute of attention.


    In the eyes of the locals, there was no emotion of disgust, happiness, or curiosity, but rather a look resembling that of seeing an unfamiliar ssmate suddenly join the ss.


    As they delved deeper into the city, this type of attention became more frequent. Pedestrians on the streets stopped to look, customers at outdoor caf��s put down their teacups, and passengers in Hovercars stuck their heads out.


    From all directions, above and below, unavoidable and unignorable.


    The six of them seemed to possess a mesmerizing charm that drew the eyes of everyone wherever they went.


    Not only Lise, but also Harvey and Igor felt ufortably haunted. Walking down the street under the quiet stares of everyone could spawn many cruel fantasies in one��s mind. The gazes felt as heavy as lead, making it hard to breathe, as if even the air had thinned.


    ��Harvey, I��m sorry.��


    ��Hmm?��


    ��You were right,�� Igor whispered. ��Corpses are indeed better than the living, at least they don��t stare at me like this.��


    Harvey hesitated, ��Actually, corpses can stare at you too.��


    ��What a pity, one less advantage for the dead, I��m giving up on the Necromancy Faction.��


    However, unlike the strangers, Annan and Banjeet remained emotionally stable throughout, seemingly indifferent to other people��s gazes. They arrived at the free city rail subway station, and Annan even signaled everyone to get on, voluntarily entering the narrow space of the train car to endure the scrutiny of all the other passengers.


    Lise timidly hid her head in Ashe��s arms, and Ashe wished he could bury his face in Annan��s arms��he was scared too!


    He dared not look inside the car, instead, casting his gaze toward the warm sky outside the window. However, the fog inside the city did not dissipate but became even thicker and sweet, sticky. Thepeting sun and moon for the dominion of the sky appeared ambiguous through the light fog filter, like they were fighting at the bedside.


    However, Fanm��s aerial logistics system seemed weaker than Azura��s. If Azura��s Drone swarm was like a school cafeteria bustling with students right after noon sses, then Fanm��s Drones were like the Restroom during ss breaks: sparse and few, leaving one to wonder whether it was due to a downgrade in Fanm��s consumer level or if people here simply didn��t favor online shopping.


    The Railcar halted at the station, and as new passengers entered the car, Ashe and the others immediately sensed something amiss��the locals, who had been subtly observing them, suddenly shifted their attention to two new passengers.


    Even without knowledge of local customs, they quickly understood what this meant: These two neers were not locals either!


    Sure enough, the two new passengers looked towards Annan��s group and walked straight over to them. One was a robust Orc and the other a slender Goblin. Their appearance revealed no weapons, but most Sorcerers using Firearms tend to keep them hidden under coats, and from the way their waistcoats draped, it was clear they were up-to-date with thetest Version trends.


    They stood next to Annan��s seat: ��Purple Moth, the Baroness sends her regards. I am from the Moonlit Harmony Home Firm����


    ��You must have been active in Fanm these past days,�� Annan said, his expression unchanging. ��Do you like this city?��


    ��Fanm is the City of No Return of the Six Emblems, we are not part of the Six Emblems, so how could we possibly like this ce?�� the Goblin chuckled. ��We were on a mission near Ariendo and were about to head back when we received the Baroness�� orders to wait for you in Fanm. We didn��t have high hopes and nned to return soon, but luck was on our side��we discovered from the Gospel that the number of outsiders in Fanm had increased by five, exactly matching your group.��


    Using the Gospel to track the number of outsiders to determine their whereabouts?


    Ashe and hispanions quickly gathered two pieces of information: first, the number of outsiders in Fanm was extremely low; second, the Broken Home Firm indeed couldn��t directly obtain information about them, only able to indirectly track their movements.


    But��


    Weren��t there 6 of them? Why had the number of outsiders only increased by 5?


    ��Are you sure luck is on your side?�� Annan touched his Amethyst Earring, smirking coldly. ��This is Fanm, not Azura. You dare make a move?��


    Annan spoke without lowering his voice. Upon hearing this, the surrounding locals�� gazes became sharper and heavier, yet they remained quietly seated, indifferently observing the unfolding conflict among the foreigners.


    ��Why not try and see?�� the Goblin said with a slight smile, summoning his Gospel. Then, suddenly, the Railcar braked sharply, and the strong inertia almost threw the passengers forward. Prepared for this, Ashe and hispanions quickly steadied themselves, ready to fight the mixed breeds from the Broken Home Firm��


    ��Don��t move.��


    Annan��s words kept the men��s killing intent visible but unacted upon, strangely enough. The Orc and Goblins didn��t take this opportunity to attack; instead, they stood nonchntly to the side as if taunting them to e on, hit me��.


    The Railcar began to move backward, speeding towards the city��s exit.


    Other passengers straightened their clothes and sat back down, showing noint about the sudden disruption. They looked at Annan and his group with a gaze reserved for the dead, as if they were beneath speaking to.


    Suddenly, Igor asked, ��Is it illegal to strike first?��


    ��In public, whoever strikes first and causes harm will be marked as a criminal by the Gospel, which even prompts the Red Caps to apprehend them,�� Banjeet exined. ��Moreover, from the moment a crime begins, everyone else automatically gains the unlimited right to self-defense against the criminal. So, who acts first is crucial��of course, this only applies in public areas. In private areas, although the Gospel is aware, it doesn��t intervene; it��s up to the Red Caps to investigate on their own.��


    Therefore, even though Annan��s house was dismantledst night, the Gospel would not report the Broken Home Firm for it. The Gospel only prohibits yer vs. yer (PVP) actions in public areas; PVP disputes within private areas are considered internal yer disputes and are outside the Gospel��s jurisdiction.


    The n of the two was simple��control the Railcar to leave Fanm and head back to Azura, with the rule that whoever strikes first is the loser.


    Although Ashe was already wanted, Annan and the others were still innocent. Logically and morally, the Red Caps could only target Ashe and not do anything to them asw-abiding citizens.


    For instance, if they were sitting in a Railcar, to ensure the safety of Annan and the others, the Red Caps could only stop them and force Ashe toe out; they absolutely could not attack them with a me st. Even with advanced medical capabilities, sacrificing the interests ofwful citizens is a line the Red Caps cannot cross.


    But if they were to give the Red Caps a reason to act, their hands would not be so tied; they might even kill them first and then use medical treatment to revive and slowly judge them.


    The n essentially tested whether Annan had the resolve to stake everything on one throw of the dice. If Annan couldn��t give up her status as awful citizen, she would have no choice but to ept the ��Azura One-Day Tour�� prize from Broken Home Firm.


    Of course, there was another option: letting Ashe, who was already a wanted criminal, handle the two of them.


    Setting aside whether Ashe could defeat them, his mere appearance in public would immediately trigger the imperial warrant, and Red Caps from across the city would converge to im the bounty that had literally fallen from the sky.


    Moreover, Ashe probably couldn��t defeat the two Two Wings sorcerers unless he once again activated the special effect of his Demonic Trench Coat��but what if that failed?


    The safest method would be for Annan and the others to overpower the two firm agents with a thunderous force and then make a quick escape, but��


    Igor looked at Annan and saw no hint of any n on her beautiful face; she seemed quite content with the situation.


    The Con Artist made a gesture to the Necromancer, and Harvey raised his eyebrows.


    Since Annan was unwilling to make the first move, they would simply force her to do so.


    From the beginning to the end, Igor and Harvey��s attitude towards their boss remained unchanged��they didn��t want a boss.


    Being a fugitive was almost more familiar to them than their own identities. If they could use this opportunity to draw the youngdy into their camp, they saw no reason to refuse.


    At that moment, the Railcar crossed a street that clearly marked the boundary between the city areas. To the north was the core of Fanm��s double-tiered city, and to the southy the newly developing districts.


    Just then, Ashe and the others felt as if something was being drawn out of their bodies, leaving them feeling empty inside. Even their thoughts slowed, and they could hardly muster the energy to do anything.


    The other passengers showed even clearer signs of this, their heads drooping like wilting flowers,cking even the strength to watch the outsiders.


    Suddenly, the Railcar screeched to a halt, not because it was forced to, but due to the hesitation of the controller.


    Within just a few breaths, the Orc and Goblins turned pale and listless, their arms and legs trembling uncontrobly. The Orc was slightly better off, merely gasping for air, while the Goblins knelt on the ground, drooling uncontrobly, their heartbeats loud enough to echo throughout the car.

 Chapter 292: Fanmula

    Chapter 292: Fanm


    ��Rapid breathing, dted pupils��these are symptoms of adrenaline intoxication.��


    Annan spoke leisurely, ��You��ve been in Fanm for over four hours today, haven��t you? You��re neither from the Six Emblems nor have undergone Demon Extraction Therapy. How could you possibly leave the City of No Return?��


    The Goblin��s face turned exceedingly grim. With a flick of his finger, the Railcar returned to the core Area. The passengers inside revived like parched earth after a rain shower, and even Ashe and the others felt a significant lift in their spirits, as if every cell in their bodies was dancing��


    ��Sugar Addiction?��


    The Con Artist, who had encountered countless Sugar Addicts, was the first to realize, his face growing incredibly sullen: ��It was withdrawal symptoms! We��ve caught a Sugar Addiction!��


    ��No wonder,�� Harvey, with a Catnip Cigarette in his mouth, remarked, ��I was wondering why my Smoking Addiction seemed so much weaker. It turns out it wasn��t that my willpower had strengthened, but that my addiction had already been satisfied.��


    Ashe, holding Lise, paused in confusion. Sugar? They hadn��t eaten any sugar��how could they possibly��


    Everyone suddenly realized something and looked towards the faint mist outside.


    By now, the sky hadpletely darkened, and the city��s neon lights were shrouded in an ever-present thin mist, like the coy joy of a maiden��s boudoir, yet also like a nightmare filled with hidden threats.��Don��t worry,�� Banjeet said. ��While it does cause psychological dependency, it does no physical harm, and it can bepletely eradicated through Demon Extraction Therapy.��


    ��What exactly is this mist��?�� Igor murmured.


    ��Below Fanm is a citywide underground farm where Mermaid��s Stinkweed is cultivated,�� Annan exined. ��It is the primary material for Catnip Cigarettes, an indispensableponent of various hallucinogenic drugs, and a major industry in Fanm.��


    ��The biggest issue with growing Mermaid��s Stinkweed is that it constantly emits ��Beauty Mist.�� Beauty Mist cannot be dissolved by any Magic, and when highly concentrated, it turns toxic. The only solution is to rely on people to inhale it.��


    ��However, Sorcerers soon discovered that the processed Beauty Mist not onlycked any toxicity but also provided a longsting, pleasurable mental state that was morefortable and healthier than smoking Catnip Cigarettes.��


    ��So Fanm transformed into the mist-covered city you see now,�� Miss Annan exined. ��It boasts the highest average lifespan, the best public safety, the highest work efficiency, and the highest levels of happiness among its citizens. It is known as the ��City of No Return����Fanm.��


    ��The two individuals standing before us now are travelers who couldn��t resist Fanm��s allure.��


    The Orc and the Goblin regained theirposure. ��No worries, I��ve already notified the Baroness. We can wait here at our leisure����


    ��You��re out of time,�� Miss Annan said with a smile.


    It was as if she had uttered a summoning spell. The next second, a sound like that of a flying machine swooshed through the night sky. A dozen Red Caps, wearing Yuheng Boots, surrounded the Railcar, and a warning echoed through thepartment: ��We suspect that criminals are maliciously controlling the Railcar to disrupt traffic. Please, all passengers must disembark immediately for inspection. I repeat, all passengers must disembark immediately!��


    ��We��re surrounded by Red Caps!�� Ashe eximed, panic rising. ��What do we do? Fight our way out?��


    ��No need to fight. Just surrender,�� Miss Annan said cheerfully.


    Igor squinted his eyes. ��Miss Annan, have you forgotten the new Contract we just signed? Or does the Contract mean nothing to you?��


    ��That��s not it,�� Banjeet exined. ��The reason we came to Fanm is that there are people here who can protect us��Miss Annan��s Aunt is a Red Cap in Fanm.��


    ��Don��t worry, I��ve already informed Aunt. These people are here to pick us up,�� Miss Annan said with a smile.


    Ashe and the others sighed in relief and gave the Purple Moth a thumbs-up.


    True to those who dare to defy the Divine Master, she had nned everything meticulously��


    Snap!


    As Ashe and the others stepped off the Railcar, they were immediately restrained by the Red Caps. Not only Ashe but even Miss Annan and the others were firmly shackled with Magic cuffs, and everyone was pressed to the ground!


    Everyone silently looked at the youngdy. They said nothing, yet it seemed they said everything.


    ��Don��t lift that person��s cloak,�� came a message from Cleos. ��It seems that person��s appearance could cause a severe mental shock to Sorcerers.��


    Ashe felt utterly dismayed by this rumor��was it shaping him into some sort of ultimate, supremely ugly demon lord?


    He noticed Annan��s face turn pale upon hearing this, thinking a major demon had arrived. When he followed the direction of the voice, he only saw a pair of long legs d in thigh-high boots.


    A Beautiful Elf in a Red Cap appeared before them, radiating mature charm. Her waistcoat lifted her impressive peaks, and her extremely short skirt just barely covered the splendid scenery beneath. Her thigh-high boots stepped elegantly as she approached Annan and the others, looking down at the group of fugitives from Azura.


    She waved her hand, signaling the Red Caps to drag away the official from the Broken Home Firm. ��Rough them up as much as you��re allowed. Otherwise, every rat from the gutter will think they can sneak into Fanm.��


    Then the Beautiful Elf in the Red Cap turned to the group. Ashe and the others shivered, even Igor dared not act rashly��even without releasing any arcane energy, her gaze alone was enough to impose a heavy pressure on the Two Wings Sorcerers!


    Sanctuary Sorcerer!


    They had actually been captured by a Sanctuary Sorcerer!


    Now everything was truly over!


    Only Annan defiantly raised her head and shouted, ��Where��s Aunt!?��


    Ashe and the others were instantly impressed��only Annan could do what we couldn��t!


    ��Nona Senhaeser has been abusing her authority, colluding with outsiders, and betraying Red Cap intelligence. She has been arrested, suspended, and is awaiting punishment,�� said the Beautiful Elf coolly. ��You won��t be seeing her.��


    ��But you can��t arrest us!�� Annan shouted back. ��We arew-abiding citizens����


    ��The Red Caps now suspect you of being involved in transient crimes and are formally detaining you for an Interrogation,�� the Beautiful Elf said, borrowing a piece of Scribble Note Paper and a pen from someone else. She scribbled a few lines, then tossed it to Annan. ��If you like, I can write a few more��shall I skip writing one for that fugitive?��


    Annan gritted her teeth and said, ��Qenna, you����


    Snap!


    The Beautiful Elf in the Red Cap kicked Annan��s face with her thigh-high boot, the force sending Annan flying several meters away. This elf showed no mercy or tenderness typically given to fair maidens. ��Impolite,�� she stated coldly.


    Upon seeing this, Banjeet quickly pleaded, ��Lady Qenna, it wasn��t intentional disrespect from Annan, she just����


    ��Enough, Banjeet. No need to defend that girl. After all these years, she still hasn��t changed��she��s be aplete Dn: good for nothing and a cause of trouble.��


    Aside from Banjeet, everyone else was stunned by the volume of information in her words.


    ��You all must be the junk my daughter picked up,�� the Beautiful Elf in the Red Cap said, looking at Ashe and the others as if they were just a collection of toys.


    ��Wee to Fanm.��

 Chapter 293: Prison is My Home

    Chapter 293: Prison is My Home


    ��Coming to Prison feels just likeing home.��


    Ashe patted the iron bars and sighed, ��It��s just that the environment is much worse than Shattered Lake.��


    ��This is just a detention room, of course the environment isn��t great,�� Igormented. ��I��ve seen documentaries; the prisons in Gospel are more luxurious than the Blood Moon, and without the Blood Moon Tribunal, too. You can look forward to that.��


    ��That��s good, as long as the prison food includes L Fatty, I��ll be satisfied.��


    Listening to their boundless chatter, Annan raised an eyebrow. ��You guys don��t seem too worried about your situation?��


    ��Ah, who would have thought, Annan, that you actually have a mother who is a Sanctuary Sorcerer. How can we afford to worry?�� Ashe spread his hands.


    ��Right,�� Igor added, ��From what I understand about ��parents��, your mother, even if she can��t give her life for you, will at least meet most of your demands. Covering for us falls within the parental duties.��


    ��That��s debatable.��


    Everyone��s gaze shifted to Lise, who was looking down at a small mirror, swinging her legs back and forth, and said, ��Not all parents love their children����Then everyone��s gaze shifted back to Ashe, with a hint of reproach in their eyes.


    Ashe grimaced in response��they were ming him, and yet, this was his first time being a father. Lise hadn��t faced any life-threatening dangers for so many days, which was already him being responsible!


    Ashe could never forget the days when he was cared for by his father as a child, which were more thrilling than a roller coaster�� There was even a photo in the family album of Ashe on the parallel bars, and aside from the fact that he wasn��t taller than a fire hydrant in that photo, there wasn��t any other issue.


    ��If you were to categorize the parents of this world, 99% have feelings for their children, 1% do not,�� Annan spoke illogically, ��Qenna belongs to those parents who wish their children were emotionless marites they could manipte. If you expect her to cover for you because of me, you might as well hope Banjeet could arouse her desires.��


    Everyone turned their gaze to the youthful Butler Youth, Banjeet, who sighed, ��Miss Annan, I know you feel upset when you see Lady Qenna, but it��s one thing to insult me; you shouldn��t insult your mother.��


    ��I didn��t insult her,�� Miss Annan responded. ��Isn��t my father quite simr to you?��


    ��That doesn��t mean you can insult me either,�� Banjeet retorted.


    Ashe curiously asked, ��Miss Annan, your mother is an Elf, and you are a Human?��


    ��Have you forgotten? After the elimination of reproductive barriers, children born from different races randomly inherit one of the parent��s traits. The Human genes of the Dn Family overpowered the Elven blood of the Senhaeser,�� Miss Annan exined coolly. ��Lady Qenna would love to stretch my ears just to prove the gic superiority of the Senhaeser lineage.��


    Igor inquired, ��Is your rtionship with your mother that bad?��


    ��Our rtionship isn��t about ��good or bad��; it��s more about ��existent or non-existent.�� I don��t want to recount my negligible childhood to you, nor do I want to feed your sympathy with my tears. You just need to know that old woman has no concept of family. The only thing she cares about is the Senhaeser surname,�� Miss Annan said with a coldugh. ��I��d rather ask my Aunt for help than have anything to do with her. In fact, our encounter just now was our first meeting in ten years�� Look, Lady Qenna was quite warm towards me.��


    She pointed to her swollen face, unable to heal the injury inflicted by her mother��s high boots due to the Magic shackles restricting her arcane energy.


    Ashe and Igor exchanged nces, their eyes reflecting a shared sentiment.


    Miss Annan twitched her nose, ��I smell your silent criticisms����


    ��Has your nose been modified like Harvey��s too?�� Ashe teased. ��Harvey is sensitive to Corpses, are you intolerant to unspoken thoughts?��


    Purple Moth scoffed, ��You��re not thinking that Lady Qenna actually cares about me, but she��s just a mother who��s bad at expressing her feelings, so there are many misunderstandings between us�� are you?��


    Igor and Ashe blinked, clearly hit by the uracy of Miss Annan��s assumption.


    ��I wouldn��t even console myself with such naive fantasies when I was six,�� Annan said calmly. ��Back then, I even thought I might be the reincarnation of a Divine Master, that Qenna treated me that way to foster my growth, to nurture my hatred, and ultimately, she would serve as a Sacrifice to guide me to y her. This would free me from hatred and elevate me beyond the mundane, ascending thedder of the Gospel�� Oddly enough, such dramatic plot twists did provide somefort to my younger self.��


    ��I advise you not to hold any expectations for that old woman,�� Annan said with her eyes closed. ��That��s advice from someone who��s been through it.��


    With such family matters, there wasn��t much room for anyone else toment, but Igor showed an expression that read ��as expected����as a ��Blood Moon�� adherent who held disdain for the Family System, he found Annan��s strained rtionship with her mother to be reasonable.


    ��Cough, cough, cough!��


    Harvey, who had been lying on the iron-framed bed, suddenly began coughing himself awake. He sat up, holding his head, his expression a bizarre mix of excitement and exhaustion.


    He picked at the hangnails on his fingers and said, ��Don��t you feel it?��


    ��What feeling?�� asked the others.


    The Necromancer pointed to his head: ��Excessive dopamine secretion�� My brain is constantly stimted by dopamine across five types of receptors. If this continues, the threshold will increase to a dangerous level. I usually have to be careful smoking and eating sweets because once that threshold is raised, it doesn��te down.��


    ��Look, I feel nothing even when I tear at my hangnails, it��s actually kind of thrilling; pain has turnedpletely into pleasure,�� the Necromancer showed his hands. ��Purple Moth, you don��t feel your face hurting either, right? Just a cool sensation�� Has this city gone mad?��


    Even the Necromancer thought the city was outrageous.


    However, Ashe and the others really didn��t feel anything abnormal��though, being so rxed andfortable in a detention center was indeed a bit odd.


    But given Ashe��s past experiences, it was hard for him to feel any real fear about being arrested. He no longer knew whether this was due to an inner confidence or because the fog was overlyforting.


    ��Ah, unexpected that the first to notice something was wrong was someone with a smoking addiction���� Annanmented. ��Makes sense, ustomed as you are to numbing yourself with hallucinogenic pheromones, you��re more attuned to changes in bodily hormones than we ordinary folks. If we��re talking about the boiling frog scenario, Mr. Harvey, having once been scalded by hot water, you��re more sensitive to shifts in temperature.��


    ��But as I mentioned before, that��s just the kind of city Fanm is. Beauty Mist envelops every corner of the city, keeping everyone in a constantly cheerful and pleasant mood��this is what��s at the core of Fanm.��


    Banjeet exined, ��Azura is a new city that developed over thest two hundred years, utilizing all thetest technological advancements from the Gospel Kingdom. It can be said to be the most developed and advanced city in the empire. Other tier-one cities might not be as advanced as Azura, but they retain the cultural essence umted over hundreds or even thousands of years of development.��


    ��Essence?�� The Necromancerughed. ��If the threshold keeps rising, do you really not realize what��s happening? Endless pleasure only leads to a brutal end.��


    ��What will happen?�� Lise asked curiously.


    ��If we say that a person is a machine and happiness is the start button,�� Harvey said, ��normally, an average person might press it four or five times a day��those little moments of happiness that keep our machine running smoothly.��


    ��But for those living in this city, their happiness button is constantly being pressed by this mist, nonstop. While this certainly makes the ��human machine�� operate much more efficiently, a machine can wear out, and the button can rust. When the threshold rises, it means the button has rusted and bes hard to press.��


    ��When the threshold reaches a certain level����


    ��The button can no longer be pressed,�� Igor added. ��And then the human machinepletely fails to start.��


    ��ording to my perception, people living in this city will break down mentally within a year, rusting into a toy that can��t function at all,�� Harvey said, somewhat puzzled. ��But it seems like those people on the streets can still live and work normally����


    ��Your thinking is essentially correct,�� Annan said. ��But so-called sorcerers are a group of miracle creators who defymon sense.��


    ��The button will rust, but isn��t that what lubricant is for?��


    ��What lubricant?�� Ashe asked.


    ��Fight poison with poison,�� Miss said, touching her swollen face, her voice full of disdain. ��A pleasure more intense and insane than Beauty Mist, more than dopamine, more than any hallucinogenic drug����


    ��Love and Family.��

 Chapter 294: Family Dream

    Chapter 294: Family Dream


    ��Stimnts, excitants, Joy Potion, spirit transmutation drugs, Genius mixtures�� long ago, Alchemists have been seeking ways to reconcile with this user-unfriendly, trashy reality.��


    ��Generally speaking, even if magicians are willing to endure, reality only bes more demanding and exacerbates. The miraculous drugs they develop either have a very high barrier to use, limited to the magicians themselves; or they possess a strong toxicity that even medical wizards cannot counter, damaging the brain.��


    ��So, is there a non-toxic alchemical potion that can be mass-produced and benefit everyone?��


    ��There actually is.�� Annan spread his hands, ��A special pheromone extracted from Mermaid��s Stinkweed, an absolutely safeponent of joy, non-toxic and non-addictive, with no side effects regardless of the dosage. Therefore, various drugs prepared from Mermaid��s Stinkweed quickly circted throughout the Gospel nation, like the Catnip Cigarette you have in your hand, Mr. Harvey.��


    ��How can there be such a convenient creation?�� Igor frowned. ��In the Blood Moon Kingdom, such a miraculous nt that seems to be a fantasy doesn��t exist����


    Purple Mothughed, ��Of course it doesn��t exist there because it is a miraculous nt cultivated under the guidance of the Gospel, unique to the Gospel nation.��


    The three were taken aback. The Gospel?


    It actually made sense��being a Gospel that could answer all questions, how could it not be used in scientific research? Especially in experimental science, guidance from the Gospel is a tremendous advantage.


    Before each experiment, the Gospel could eliminate all potential hazards; when encountering a bottleneck, just opening the Gospel could reveal the next steps; upon discovering an unknownponent, asking the Gospel could rify its uses�� Compared to Magical Factions, basic science is the greatest beneficiary of the Gospel, and probably, in these thousand years, the basic sciences in the Gospel nation have never stagnated!But this also implied a problem��


    Igor frowned and asked, ��Doesn��t the Gospel prevent the production of Joy Potion?��


    ��Because it��s not as serious as you think,�� Annan said calmly. ��In fact, the highest level of Joy Potion avable to the general public is the Catnip Cigarette in Harvey��s hand. Moreover, a special ingredient has been added to the Catnip Cigarette to increase the smoker��s aversion, so even the strongest Orc can only smoke one pack a day without reaching the threshold for increased tolerance.��


    ��Most Joy Potions are sold only to corporations, such as ��Rosemary�� which is paired with central air conditioning to effectively increase the productivity of an entirepany��s staff; or ��Fourteen Spices�� specifically used in the food industry, which can enhance the dining experience for customers����


    ��Nothing exists that is only harmful without benefits, especially since Joy Potion is the ��Sacred Blood�� pursued by Alchemists. How could they discard it? As long as it is used judiciously and moderately, Joy Potion can be beneficial and harmless to society. And����


    ��You also have the Gospel,�� Ashe interjected. ��As long as the Gospel helps regte, the harmful effects of Joy Potion can be virtually eliminated.��


    ��The same goes for Beauty Mist,�� Annan continued. ��Processed Beauty Mist can be a nutrient for cities, and sorcerers naturally consider whether the city might ��overeat��. Guided by the Gospel and their own exploration, the sorcerers of Fanm have found a perfect path��the Family Reincarnation Dream System.��


    Purple Moth looked at the Con Artist: ��Mr. Bukin, as a Mind Sorcerer, you must be aware that some miracles can directly extract positive emotions from their targets, right?��


    ��Extracting positive emotions and increasing negative emotions is a rathermon assassination technique among Mind Sorcerers,�� Igor exined. ��If the target happens to encounter a significant setback, it can even induce them tomit suicide.��


    ��Thank you for your answer,�� Annan nodded slightly. ��In the world of sorcerers, positive emotions can be treated as a resource. It can even be said that without this resource, a person��s mental state can quickly deteriorate.��


    ��But too much of this resource can overwhelm oneself. Now, the situation in Fanm is that everyone has an excess of emotional resources, so the solution is quite obvious.��


    ��Collecting positive emotions?�� Igor looked puzzled. ��But��I won��t ask how you collect them, but manipting emotions requires delving deep into the Soul. Surely you can��t sneak into someone��s mind like I do? It would only be possible if every citizen willingly exposed their Soul, like leaving their house doors open at night for all to see inside�� That��s riskier than being physically naked!��


    ��Of course, it wouldn��t be appropriate among strangers.��


    Leaning against the wall, Annan spoke slowly: ��But what if it��s among family members?��


    ��A mother with her son, a daughter with her grandchild, a sister with her nephew, a brother with his nephew�� Bound by Bloodline, fortified by family, everyone happily merges into the collective, sharing their joy, lowering the threshold.��


    ��The concept of Bloodline identity is indeed fascinating. When it��s strong enough, it can suppress individual will to the extreme.��


    ��This was originally a fanciful idea, but after centuries of development and countless Sorcerers contributing, they have woven the happy emotions of numerous family members intoyers of dreams, ultimately creating an indescribable Bloodline Miracle.��


    ��When family members close their eyes, they can immerse themselves in these dreams at any time, entering a fantastical world woven from countless happy emotions.��


    ��In the dream, if you crave solitude, it carves out a small world just for you; if you seek someone to share and confide in, a listening family member will meet you; if you seek answers, a wise family member waits beneath a tree; if you desire a passionate romance, perhaps the next person will spark the mes of Love with you.��


    ��Every action you take consumes your positive emotions. Once these are depleted, you naturally leave the dream and return to reality.��


    ��As you spend these emotions, you gradually develop a belief in this family. You begin to think your happinesses from the family, from Love, and all your pleasant memories bear the mark of ��Love and Family.�� You forsake your smaller self, entrusting your spirit to the great family.��


    ��The chronic ailments brought by Beauty Mist will soon disappear, reced by a more formidable disease: Familial Love.��


    ��Wait a minute!�� Ashe eximed in surprise. ��The reincarnation dream sounds just like����


    ��Like the Virtual Realm, right?�� Annan smiled. ��I haven��t finished yet. In the Mind Faction, information is stored in increasing order of magnitude: ��thoughts��, ��will��, and ��emotions��.��


    ��Thoughts are just short snippets of memory, while will is a group of thoughts that form a memory cluster with a strong directional focus. Emotions, on the other hand, are the idental byproducts of the collision between will and memory.��


    ��Even if all the positive emotions here are catalyzed by Beauty Mist and are of the lowest quality, they still contain a lot of information. What do you think happens when people actively immerse themselves in dreams woven from these emotions?��


    ��Pieces of past memories are absorbed and digested by contemporary individuals���� Harvey shook his head. ��Disgusting.��


    Annan nodded. ��Yes, in the dream, if you��re lucky��or unlucky��enough, you might resonate with other memory fragments, absorbing their knowledge and emotions. As for digestion�� well, it��s hard to say who digests whom.��


    ��Qenna, a pure-blood political creature, isn��t something that can be shaped by reality alone. I suspect she inherited the dirtiest essence of the past several Patriarchs of Senhaeser, which is why she radiates the stale, moldy scent of expired Elves from her hair to her nails.��


    Beauty Mist, Family Reincarnation Dream System�� Ashe and the others felt as if they had been pped, their minds overwhelmed by a torrent of information.


    This could be the setting for a new main stage in the story, right? Isn��t Fanm going a bit too far with such bizarre settings even for side stages?


    And Beauty Mist is one thing, but to counteract it with the Family Reincarnation Dream System�� It sounds like inventing a machine that transforms poop into stir-fried beef ho fun just to eat a bite of shit.


    After all, the Family Reincarnation Dream System is much more significant than Beauty Mist. It��s essentially creating a mini Virtual Realm specifically for knowledge Inheritance. As the reincarnation dreams continue to expand and draw enough emotional nourishment, they might indeed be a family-exclusive Virtual Realm��


    ��Actually, it��s not as good as Miss Annan described,�� Banjeet said. ��Knowledge reincarnation does happen, but it��s a rare urrence, maybe once a year at most. Most people just treat the Reincarnation Dream as a ce for leisure and Entertainment, a way to release extra happiness.��


    The Butler Youth exined, ��The most powerful aspect of the Family Reincarnation Dream isn��t the reincarnation itself, but the Family. All the family members who join the same dream, even if they have never met each other, will find their bloodline bonds and subconscious impressions gradually deepening, eventually forming an almost intuitive bloodline recognition.��


    ��You must have been wondering why we were surrounded and watched by everyone when we walked on the street just now,�� he continued. ��Apart from us, all the others belong to ��the same Family��. They look at each other and feel a close kinship, even if they do not know each other��s names, but they know they are family members who can be honest with each other.��


    Ashe and the others immediately understood��their behavior while walking on the street was akin to intruding into someone else��s private family gathering and causing a disturbance, no wonder they attracted such attention.


    ��So,�� Igor, who was responsible for ��leading the smart to inspire the smarter,�� summarized, ��Beauty Mist provides endless joy to the city��s residents, hence work efficiency, resident satisfaction, and the level of public safety are unmatched in the Gospel Kingdom.��


    ��But to prevent this pleasure from damaging the citizens�� minds, Sorcerers created the Family Reincarnation Dream, allowing citizens to channel their excess joy into the dreams. Over centuries, the dreams and the sorcerer families have grown topletely dominate the city of Fanm.��


    ��Almost everyone living here has joined this operational system, and outsiders are urately identified by the locals.��


    ��Beauty Mist has catalyzed happy citizens, Beauty Mist has given rise to a vast Family, and Beauty Mist has isted Fanm from the Gospel Kingdom.��


    ��Very well summarized,�� Miss Annan said. ��There are virtually no omissions.��


    The Con Artist was silent for a moment: ����So why did wee to this den of iniquity that devours people without spitting out their bones?��


    ��Wait a minute,�� Ashe raised his hand. ��Aren��t you going to discuss why the Reincarnation Dream so closely resembles the Virtual Realm? Could it be that the Virtual Realm����


    ��Some Sorcerers have long suggested that the Virtual Realm is a grand dream woven by all beings. This is a well-known theory, though no one can prove it,�� Igor said dismissively, waving his hand. ��Adults are speaking, children should not interrupt!��


    Lise reached out to cover her father��s mouth, while Ashe tapped his daughter on the head.


    ��For outsiders, Fanm can indeed be quite dangerous,�� Banjeet remarked. ��But Miss Annan is not an outsider.��


    Everyone turned to look at Miss Annan, whose mouth twitched as if she had swallowed a cockroach. After a moment of silence, she admitted reluctantly, ��I lived in Fanm for a while when I was a child.��

 Chapter 295: Cunning Daughter versus Cold-blooded Mother

    Chapter 295: Cunning Daughter versus Cold-blooded Mother


    ��In this wretched den of iniquity, the only gain I��ve had is meeting Aunt.��


    ��My rtionship with Aunt is strong; she��s not the lunatic Qenna is. My original n was to bring you all to seek refuge with Aunt, and then continue here to desecrate the Divine Master��s schemes.��


    ��Due to Fanm��s highly xenophobic nature, as long as we can hide within one Family, not even the Red Caps can touch us. Even if we all made it onto the future Ranking, we could still rest easy here.��


    ��Fanm has six major Families, also known as the Six Emblems of Fanm. The Six Emblems divide the entire city, each with its own administrative body, and they don��t share information between them, providing us opportunities to exploit any Loophole.��


    This n suddenly seemed wless, but there was a very obvious Loophole, and even Ashe noticed it.


    But they did not continue discussing it.


    Outside the detention cell, the sound of high-heeled boots echoed.


    Creak��


    The heavy metal door slowly pushed open, and a pair of sleek legs stepped into the quiet detention room, their crisp tapping sounds as if stepping directly on everyone��s hearts. A tall figure, stunning beauty, and an arrogant demeanor, the Beautiful Elf in a Red Cap appeared in the prisoners�� line of sight, stealing all their colors.Several Red Caps opened the cell, and the Beautiful Elf walked in to scan the room briefly without speaking.


    Miss Annan, always calm andposed, seemed to meet her nemesis,pletely unable to keep her cool: ��When are you letting us out? ording to the regtions, without substantial criminal evidence recognized by the Gospel, you can only detain us for a maximum of 48 hours.��


    ��48 hours?�� As if hearing a joke, Qenna Senhaeser chuckled: ��Yes, typically it is indeed a maximum of 48 hours, otherwise it would be a legal vition.��


    ��But���� she leaned forward slightly, looking down closely at her own daughter: ��As the Captain of the Red Caps, I can request the Gospel to determine that you have serious criminal suspicions, extending the detention limit to 170 hours.��


    ��And given that your main activities over the past thirty days were in Azura,ing to Fanm counts asmitting crimes in a different location, which further extends the detention time by 720 hours.��


    ��I can legally detain you for over a month within the limits allowed by the Gospel,�� the Beautiful Elf in the Red Cap said with a coldugh. ��Did you think only you pests knew how to exploit the rules? The Red Caps don��t exploit the rules simply because they disdain to stoop to your level, the level of parasites.��


    Annan��s lips twitched as she restrained her anger. ��Qenna, I didn��te here for you, you����


    ��But I came for you, you ungrateful wretch.��


    p!


    Before anyone could react, Annan was struck hard across the face. She groaned, falling to the ground as her cheek numbed and she spat out a mouthful of blood before Qenna grabbed her, then��


    ��Ah!��


    Qenna delivered a brutal knee to the girl��s abdomen. Annan felt several of her ribs break, her organs squeezed, barely able to catch her breath!


    Annan cried out as she copsed to the floor, struggling to stand up and raise her handcuffed hands in defense. The Beautiful Elf in the Red Cap, seeing this, showed no mercy and delivered a powerful kick with her high boots!


    Boom!


    The Magic handcuffs shattered under the force, and Annan was kicked against the wall, her whole body numbed by the impact, her vision a blur of colors, her ears ringing almost to deafness!


    ��Stop.��


    Qenna pulled out a handkerchief, bent down to wipe the blood from the tip of her shoe, ignoring the groaning, blood-spitting Annan. She looked at the only person in the cell daring to speak up, raising an eyebrow. ��I remember Heath Ashe. You��re the man from her portrait�� Are you her man?��


    Ashe covered Lise��s eyes, tasted the Honeyed de in his mouth, pondering the best moment to act, and responded, ��What, you want me to call you mother-inw?��


    ��If you were aedian, you��d probably make the list,�� Qennamented calmly, pulling out an elegantly designed Handgun, reminiscent of ck and white piano keys, from her waist. Ashe instinctively covered Lise��s ears��


    Bang!


    Buzz������������


    The shot bullet struck the wall right beside Ashe��s ear, tearing through his eardrum with a violent crack. The buzzing in his ears echoed in his mind, and although hisbat training allowed him to maintain some semnce of sanity, the fear of brushing with death gripped his heart like a w.


    Power? His opponent was a Tri-wings Sorcerer of the Sanctuary.


    Status? She represented justice as a Red Cap.


    Situation? She was the knife; he was merely the fish on the chopping board!


    When his hearing returned, he heard Qenna say coldly, ��This is your first warning. I��m not warning you about your disrespect towards me, but about your disrespect towards Patriarch Senhaeser��on this world, aside from the Gospel, no one speaks to the Patriarch Senhaeser in amanding tone, not even the kings of the earth!��


    ��Moreover, this is also a reeducation on stupidity. Boy, didn��t you notice that Banjeet hasn��t spoken?��


    Ashe nced towards Banjeet, who had been silent all along.


    Yes, the person who cared most about Annan here should be Butler Banjeet, but why hadn��t Banjeet protested even as Annan was beaten so severely? Could it be��


    ��Because he also knows they are not in the right here,�� Qenna sneered. ��Don��t be foolishly misled by this wretched girl.��


    Ashe, suppressing the fear in his heart, gently pushed away Lise��s hand from his ear, managing only to utter a feeble and pale truism, ��Even if you have issues with your daughter, you shouldn��t abuse her like this. She is not your property����


    ��Who said I was hitting her as a mother?��


    Qenna grabbed Annan by the neck and pressed her against the wall��standing taller than Annan, especially with her high boots��mother and daughter stood face to face, but their eyes showed no warmth, only coldness and resentment.


    ��Nona has told me all about your n,�� Qenna said coldly. ��You came to Fanm with great fanfare and then revealed your blood rtionship with me, making everyone think I was protecting you. Then you secretly joined other Emblem Families. As a result, Senhaeser would have to face the Red Caps, the Firm, the other five major Emblem Families, and the Yisuo Royal Family alone, bing the target of the entire nation�� While you could sitfortably on the best balcony, watching Senhaeser be the sacrifice in your n.��


    ��You said you didn��t want to be my daughter anymore, so whye running back to mommy when you get into trouble? I don��t recall ever teaching you that. Or is this the kind of upbringing you got from Dn? Hmm?��


    Pfft!


    Annan spat a mouthful of blood onto Qenna��s face, her voice weak as she said, ��You�� must not�� insult Dn!��


    Qenna nced at the blood on her cheek with a slight squint in her eyes, her tone unfluctuating: ��I am not standing here as your mother or as a Red Cap, but as the Patriarch of Senhaeser, demanding an exnation from you, a traitor who plotted against Senhaeser.��


    ��I��ll give you three sentences,�� she said coldly. ��If you can��t convince me, then you will spend two human menstrual cycles here.��


    Ashe and the others were stunned��they had no idea about the specifics of Annan��s n, but Banjeet had not countered Qenna��s testimony, which meant that Annan had indeed nned to use her mother��s Family as a shield. A cunning daughter versus a cold-blooded mother was indeed not a battle they could intervene in.


    ��After the Weaving Festival�� I will join Senhaeser.��


    ��One.��


    ��Whether sessful or not, I will hand over all of Dn��s secrets to you, including the loopholes umted over centuries, as well as this sphemous n woven by generations!��


    ��Two.��


    ��That��s it, this is my bottom line!�� Annan gritted her teeth. ��Hand me over, let everyone know that Senhaeser can��t even protect its own daughter!��


    Qenna looked at her, then let go, allowing her to slide down the wall. Then the Beautiful Elf Red Cap pulled a piece of Contract Fabric from her sleeve and unfolded it expertly.


    ��Sign it.��


    Ashe and the others suddenly realized that Annan��s method of controlling employees through contracts, and her mix of intimidation and deceitful rhetoric, might well have been a crucial part of her upbringing.

 Chapter 296: Deya’s First Doubt

    Chapter 296: Deya��s First Doubt


    In the Virtual Realm, on the Time Continent, three sorcerers drove away from the nest of the Vassal Spider Dragon, leaving behind a burning mine pit.


    It was a perfect raid: the entrance was just wide enough for a sports car to fit through, so they charged in and ran over five juvenile Vassal Spider Dragons, then poisoned and killed another twenty-four.


    Facing the overlord creature, the Consort Spider Dragon, whose home and offspring were devastated, they paid the utmost respect��first setting a fire, then surrounding and beating it, giving it a dignified funeral.


    Terrain kill, fire attack, mobbing��they were very familiar with this sequence of actions, gradually elevating the grueling battle into a ughter akin to grinding monsters, to the extent that Deya became somewhat sentimental: ��If there��s a god in the Virtual Realm who protects Knowledge Creatures, should we pray to them for forgiveness of our sins?��


    ��If there really is one, then it��s them who should be praying to us,�� Sonya said, pressing down on Deya��s stray hair. ��Let��s hope the sorcerers don��t find them.��


    ��Speaking of which, I once read a fairy tale book. There was a story called ��Don��t Let the Sorcerer Find You,�� where the main character was a spirit trying to escape the control of a sorcerer����


    ��Did it seed?��


    ��No, it got caught again.��


    ��That��s indeed a good fairy tale.��As the two friends were deepening their bond through banter, suddenly, a disdainful male voice interjected: ��Do you think your mothers are proper mothers?��


    Hearing Ashe��s sudden question, Sonya was not polite at all: ��What else would they be? Are you suggesting your mother came wholesale?��


    After a night of bickering with Ashe, their interaction had be increasingly casual, not to mention that Ashe��s remark dared to touch a soft spot in Sonya��s heart. If it weren��t for the Witch being nearby, Sonya might not have responded so elegantly.


    ��No, it��s just that recent events have made me reflective,�� Ashe said. ��Different societies, different regions, different cultural traditions, and different people all give rise to different fruits of kinship.��


    Mother, kinship, recent events?


    Deya��s ears twitched, observing Ashe through the rearview mirror.


    ��If rtionships were a dish of condiments, my rtionship with my mother would probably be three spoons of sugar, five chili peppers, a small cup of bitter melon juice, a slice of lemon, and a few marshmallows mixed into a dry dish. Whenever I��m ready to face hardship, dipping into this dish helps me chew through it.��


    Hmm��


    Hmm!?


    The Witch and the Swordswoman both gave the Observer a subtle look��wait, you have a mother too?


    Although everyone has a mother, in Sonya and Deya��s minds, the Observer was supposed to be an ancient being who had been sealed for thousands of years and had recently risen from the coffin. To him, the childhood spent with his parents should be nothing more than trivial dust in his long life, shouldn��t it?


    But they couldn��t be sure, after all, they were just young women in their twenties, how could they possibly understand the psychological workings of someone who had lived for hundreds or thousands of years? Perhaps this nostalgic attitude towards life is the norm among those who live forever.


    Sonya thought for a moment, ��My rtionship with my mother is about two spoons of sugar, one spoon of vinegar, one spoon of soy sauce, all brought together with hot oil����


    ��Why is there hot oil?��


    ��I��d like to know why there��s hot oil too,�� Sonya said mildly: ��Destiny really is a chef who doesn��t y by the rules.��


    Then both turned to the Witch, and Deya hesitated a bit: ��I�� I��ve never met my mother.��


    After a brief silence, Sonya asked, ��Which Resource Point are we heading to next?��


    ��Let me see,�� Ashe said. ��We��re almost back to the Star Hall area with the detailed Map, but there isn��t much of interest at the edge of the Star Hall Area. Let��s keep moving forward to see if there��s anything worth scavenging����


    Although her two teammates were very tactful and quickly changed the subject, Deya didn��t want to drop it: ��Observer, why are you suddenly reflecting on kinship issues? Did something happen in reality?��


    ��Nothing much,�� Ashe thought for a moment and said: ��It��s just that recently I��ve experienced some things that made me realize that the rtionship between children and adults might not just be about kinship, but could also be a stark alliance of interests.��


    ��Oh.�� Deya��s eyes widened, her body leaning forward subconsciously: ��That��s a strange rtionship indeed.��


    ��I��ve even seen children use interests to threaten adults, forcing them toply.��


    ��Wow, really?��


    ��There��s no trust between adults and children; they trust Contracts more than emotions.��


    As the simrities mounted, Deya began to tremble, her suspicions seeming to be confirmed. The Witch, suppressing her inner turmoil, asked casually, ��This is actually the first time I��ve heard of this�� By the way, Observer, how old is this child you mentioned?��


    Ashe thought for a moment: ��Hmm�� about eight years old?��


    The Witch was taken aback, ��Only eight years old?��


    ��I didn��t ask in detail, but she should be around eight,�� Ashe wasn��t too sure himself.


    Deya, suddenly deted like a balloon, stopped distracting the driver and buried her head in the Swordswoman��sp, lost in thought.


    Although Deya and her sisters had been watching the drama unfold in the mirror, they were also shocked by the peculiar mother-daughter rtionship between Qenna and Annan, which had been discussed in Lise��s mind for a long time.


    Now that the Observer had brought up the topic of mothers after arriving in the Virtual Realm, Deya naturally began to form peculiar associations��


    ��Could the Observer actually be Ashe?��


    This association wasn��t formed overnight but was the result of several days of umtion.


    After all, Lise spent her days with Ashe, and Deya spent her nights with the Observer. Even if she hadn��t initially thought in this direction, over time, a strange d��j�� vu emerged: Are your brains damaged in the same ce? Why do your thought patterns seem as if they��ve been rotated 360 degrees?


    And you both wear the same dark red coat!


    More importantly, duringst night��s Battle with the Broken Home Firm, the sisters subtly saw Ashe cast a warm yellow barrier to protect Annan.


    And the Observer��s most frequently used Sword Barrier happens to be a warm yellow barrier as well!


    Of course, most Defensive Miracles rted to the Earth Faction are primarily yellow, but the umtion of these coincidences, along with the catalyst of the mother topic, solidified Deya��s suspicion of ��Observer being Ashe,�� prompting her to subtly inquire about the Observer��s real-life situation.


    Initially, Deya thought the Observer was referring to Annan and Qenna, but the Observer mentioned an eight-year-old child, clearly not Annan who was obviously not that young. Clearly, Deya had made a mistake.


    Nestled in the Swordswoman��sp, Deya rubbed her head against her and pondered why she had associated Ashe with the Observer.


    It was mainly because of the Dark Red Trench Coat.


    If one didn��t see the front, Ashe��s silhouette in that trench coat was almost identical to the Observer��s.


    But the issue was that the Dark Red Trench Coat had been a gift from Lise to Ashe! Lise had bought that gift because she thought the Observer looked handsome in a Dark Red Trench Coat, and so she got one for Ashe.


    It turned out that Lise had deliberately dressed Ashe in the Observer��s style, hence the resemnce between Ashe and the Observer.


    As for their modes of thinking and styles of speech, upon further reflection, they weren��t that simr.


    After all, the Observer spoke very freely, often mocking himself, and asionally shared jokes with the Swordswoman that Deya couldn��t understand��thanks to exnations from the White Queen and the ck Butler, Deya also understood what those jokes were.


    Comparatively, Ashe, though mischievous, was gentler in demeanor and more upright in conduct, almost never telling such jokes in front of Lise. Even when Harvey and Igor discussed something frightening, he would immediately cover Lise��s ears, showing great care for her.


    As for the warm yellow Defensive Miracle�� it was probably just a coincidence!


    After separating the Observer and Ashe in her mind, Deya found this to be more logical: The Observer could observe her anytime and anywhere, so what need was there to disguise himself as Ashe and stay around her? Not to mention that Ashe was a Contractor specifically chosen by Lise, it was unlikely that the Observer would have nned that far.


    Although Deya had not known the Observer for very long, she knew that he was not one to lie. Since the daughter the Observer mentioned was only eight years old, he was definitely not talking about Annan but narrating the story of another parent-child pair unknown to her.


    Is Lise around eight years old?


    When the Witch suggested this, Ashe realized he actually didn��t know the exact age of his adoptive daughter. Lise��s appearance was indeed deceptive: her teeth were even neater than Ashe��s, which made it unclear whether she had lost her baby teeth yet; she was about as tall as a fire hydrant, seeming under ten years old, but it could also be due to malnutrition.


    Indeed, Ashe��s reflections were triggered by witnessing the dysfunctional mother-daughter rtionship between Annan and Qenna, which made him think about his own unique situation with Lise.


    The focus was on himself, not Annan.


    After all, Ashe had always been straightforward. Why should he care about a dispute over interests between a capitalist boss and her feudal Noble mother? Initially, Ashe had some sympathy for Annan, who had been harshly treated by Qenna, but it turned out that it was the daughter who had schemed against her mother first. Ashe felt he couldn��t meddle in such high-level conflicts.


    Once the mother and daughter had reached an agreement, Qenna ced��or rather, confined��them in the Double-tiered City of Fanm. It was then that Ashe and the others realized that dividing Fanm��s Double-tiered City into six areas was intentional, designed to give each Emblem Family its own domain.


    In stories and anime, one often sees three major families in a star city, usually consisting of a ��minority of Family members�� and ��a majority ofmoners.�� However, Fanm was entirely dominated by six major Families��there were no people outside these six Families in the city. Everyone in the same area belonged to the same Family, and there was a deep Bloodline identification among family members, who also strongly rejected outsiders.


    Rather than calling it a city, it was more like a continent formed by the merger of six nationalist countries.

 Chapter 297: The Virtual Realm Map Surrenders

    Chapter 297: The Virtual Realm Map Surrenders


    After resolving the misunderstanding between mother and daughter, the daughter��s friends were naturally treated well.


    Ashe and the others were escorted to a fully equipped suite, where they were free to do as they pleased, except they could not leave the room. Annan told them to rest well tonight, and if they weren��t sleepy, they could take a walk in the Virtual Realm. They would discuss important matters tomorrow.


    Throughout the conversation, Annan kept her face hidden behind the Gospel, and even Igor, with his usually suspicious nature, didn��t object and nodded in agreement to Annan��s requests.


    Without a doubt, Annan had not brought them to Fanm simply to visit her mother or for sightseeing. She had a triple win in mind: seeking refuge here was the first win; pushing her mother��s Family forward as a Scapegoat was the second; and then using the special Area advantages here to help Ashe and the others ascend the second future Ranking List was the third.


    However, Ashe couldn��t figure out how exactly Fanm was supposed to help them. Was it to forge a heart capable of ostracizing and isting the entire city?


    As Ashe pondered, the sports car was already nearing the border of the Star Hall Area.


    On the Virtual Realm��s grand map, the light points representing the Sorcerers traced an intelligent path across the boundless ck Lake, rapidly approaching the lush Star Hall Area.


    If one were to raise their viewpoint and observe the map of the Time Continent as a whole, they would notice several curved paths in the dark Area outside Star Hall, marking the trails of their explorations over the past few days.


    Connecting these paths end-to-end, one could see a twisted, circr shape.A few days ago, by observing the Virtual Realm��s grand map, Ashe and hispanions had uncovered a secret of the Time Continent��s operation:


    The path walked by the Chariot of the Bull was circr.


    The White Bull did not walk straight ahead but with a slight arc. When itpleted a circle, the Time Continent also went through a time cycle.


    This was not unimaginable. ording to the Swordswoman, many Sorcerers had spected that the White Bull was merely circling around the Time Continent, as it couldn��t possibly be infinitelyrge. It was just that other Sorcererscked a Virtual Realm Map and could not confirm the exact trajectory of the White Bull.


    Although they didn��te to a conclusive understanding, they vaguely sensed that the White Bull��s regr circr running mechanism likely concealed even deeper secrets unknown to others.


    After many days, Ashe and hispanions once again entered the Star Hall Area with aplete Map. Tomorrow, they would be able to thoroughly scavenge the unique resources of the Star Hall Area��


    Boom!


    Suddenly, a loud explosion sounded in the distance. A violent storm broke through the Curtain of the Reverse Golden Rain, directly triggering the Refractive Barrier of the sports car, causing ripples to spread!


    Trees nurtured by the River of Flowing Gold snapped one after another, and bushes half a person high toppled over. Even the haughty Reverse Golden Rain had to avoid the Whirlpool of battle!


    Ashe mmed on the brakes, and the sports car skidded across the grass, forming the trajectory of a doughnut as it came to a stop. Sonya and Deya were already prepared for Battle: ��Where��s the enemy?��


    ��Outside�� our line of sight!��


    Ashe looked at the Virtual Realm Map, and within a 25-tile radius around them, all were marked as a ��waste of effort�� safe zone. This meant that the attack hade from beyond the exploratory range of the Virtual Realm, a long-range strike!


    Boom!


    Thump, thump, thump!


    Not far behind theyers of the Golden Rain Curtain, a massive group Battle was unfolding. The roar of energy annihtion, the mourning churn of the earth, and the rhythmic symphony of blood and flesh wereposing a disaster symphony that affected the entire Area.


    Even though they couldn��t see the traces of their adversaries, the notes sshed out from their Battle were enough to devastate the nearby ecology!


    Ashe daringly drove the sports car a bit forward and finally saw a blood-red alert in the corner of the Area:


    ��Warzone (many, arge group, an enormous amount of Knowledge Creatures)��


    No further information was provided, but the three Sorcerers knew the significance of this message��they had encountered a war between heroic soul legions!


    Unlike the previous heroicmander who casually strolled the streets with a few dragons, the factions in this war had brought arge number of armed subordinate creatures, making their sh as devastating as andslide and tsunami in the Virtual Realm!


    Without any discussion, Ashe immediately drove away��under such circumstances, even the most adventurous would turn into a conservative Sorcerer!


    However, their approach had already drawn the attention of both sides in the war. The dazzling Reverse Golden Rain suddenly parted, creating a pathway in the air. A semi-transparent golden spirit rapidly crossed hundreds of meters, fiercely plunging into Ashe��s body.


    [You��ve arrived just in time, Demilo, use your invincible Logistics Magic to escape��]


    [��]


    [You�� are not Demilo?]


    [Ah, so cold. I don��t want to return to that colorless world, I don��t want to�� No, no, let me sleep, don��t wake me up again, stop�� mocking me.]


    Before Ashe could even react, his Soul Summoning spirit emerged on its own, exining the changes that had urred:


    ��This spirit has sessfully absorbed a spirit of the same name, unlocking new troop types ��Gryphon Weather Sorcerer,�� ��Barrier,�� ��Star Prayer,�� and ��Meteoric Warrior.����


    ��Star Hall Gryphon Weather Sorcerer: Wind Magic, Water Art, Thunder Magic cause +20% Soul Damage. 3yers of armor, humanoid creature, equipped with a Gryphon mount and the Miracle ��Star Tide.�� Each unit consumes 4 soul power.��


    [Star Tide: Targets a single individual, inflicting mixed damage from wind, water, and thunder.]


    ��Star Hall Barrier: Any attack causes +15% Soul Damage. 11yers of armor, humanoid creature, equipped with a shield. Each unit consumes 5 soul power.��


    ��Star Hall Star Prayer: Long-range Attack causes +45% Soul Damage. 4yers of armor, humanoid creature, equipped with the special Miracle ��Starfall.�� Each unit consumes 10 soul power.��


    [Starfall: Minimum chant time of 1 second, maximum of 60 seconds,unches arge area attack of falling starlight on a designated Area, which cannot be altered once selected.]


    ��Star Hall Meteoric Warrior: Melee attacks cause +60% Soul Damage. 7yers of armor, humanoid creature, equipped with special Miracles ��Meteoric Strike,�� ��Starlight Path,�� and ��Chaotic Starcloud.�� Each unit consumes 15 soul power.��


    [Meteoric Strike: Your next strike is augmented with the power of stars, ignoring enemy armor.]


    [Starlight Path: You can transmigrate through obstacles, including enemies, city walls, and defensive barriers.]


    [Chaotic Starcloud: You have a 30% chance to dodge all attacks. Each sessful dodge refreshes the cooldown of ��Meteoric Strike.��]


    ��You have absorbed the ��ido��s Commander��s Handbook����


    ��Please select 2 rewards����


    ��Star (ido exclusive reward) (Locked selection): You are the embodiment of the will of the stars. Under yourmand, the chant time for Miracles by Star Prayers is reduced by 50%, Miracle power is increased by 150%, and they gain an additionalyer of armor.��


    ��Command of Archery, Advanced (Optional): You know how to use ranged troops to achieve strategic objectives, and you gain a vast amount of experience in shooting Factions.��


    ��Offensive Tactics, Advanced (Optional): You are undoubtedly a master of offense, and you gain arge amount of experience across all Factions.��


    ��Financial Management, Advanced (Optional): When arming troops, the consumption of Soul power is reduced by 50%.��


    Incredible!


    Both the unlocked troop types and the skills from the Commander��s Handbook indicate that the golden spirit that rushed over is undoubtedly a heroic soulmander of eternal renown!


    Yet, even such a formidablemander was driven to flee in panic!


    Ashe didn��t dare look back, desperately driving the sports car away from the Warzone. Sonya also felt the ominous killing intent approaching from behind, her whole body tensing up in terror, and Witch Deya��s hair even started to change color!


    At this point, they hadn��t even seen the enemy yet, but a deep-seated fear akin to encountering a nemesis had already taken hold!


    Flee, flee quickly!


    Ashe checked the Virtual Realm Map, only to find that the surrounding 25 Area had already surrendered before him, the cruel red almost spilling out of the screen onto him.


    ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger��


    ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger��


    ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��I�� ��Danger�� ��Danger��


    ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger��


    ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger�� ��Danger��


    ��Is it still possible to pray to the Virtual Realm now?�� Deya��s voice was frightened into a duet.


    ��


    ��It��s over.��


    As Banjeet applied a hydrating face mask to Annan after treatment, Annan suddenly sat up, looking even worse than when she had been hit by her mother.


    ��Although the partner has changed from Miss Nona to Lady Qenna, it should still be within your n, Miss���� Banjeet was a bit puzzled. ��And the injuries are much lighter than expected�� It seems Lady Qenna still has some affection for you.��


    ��No, I��m not talking about that old woman.�� Purple Moth said, holding her head, ��Have you forgotten? Our Azura��s strongest firm, what we specialize in is����


    ��Virtual Realm Assassination.��

 Chapter 298: Virtual Realm Assassination

    Chapter 298: Virtual Realm Assassination


    Where is a ce where one can kill without being discovered?


    Where is a ce where others cannot stop you from killing and arson?


    Where is a ce where everyone is alone?


    Indeed, it is the Virtual Realm!


    Humming a tune, Amodo rode his bicycle through the curtain of rain. On the back of his hand was a faint red mark of crossed swords, which grew increasingly brighter as he cycled along.


    ��I am a thief, fond of L Fatty.��


    ��I am a thief, I kill without shedding a tear.��


    ��I am a thief, with a heart so dark.��


    He is ranked first in Azura and sixth nationally at Bliss and Comfort Firm, specializing in offering exciting services that are illegal in reality��murder.Compared to the recently risen Moonlit Harmony Home Firm, Bliss and Comfort Firm has a much longer history. In the past, it was one of the two major dark forces in Azura alongside the Funeral Firm. As Azura grew, so did it.


    Now, as the old guard gives way to the new, the Funeral Firm has fallen into disrepair and even been kicked out of the top ten rankings, but Bliss and Comfort Firm still firmly holds the top spot in Azura. Customerse from all over the country, drawn by its reputation, and far from declining, it is more flourishing than ever.


    The enduring sess of Bliss and Comfort Firm lies in its mastery of a core technique: the Art of Murder in Virtual Realm.


    When the Gospel first appeared, the initial reaction of the sorcerers wasn��t to use it to study grand issues like societal harmony, advances in productivity, how to make L Fatty delicious, whether the chicken or the egg came first, or whether they were the most superior race. Instead, they wondered:


    ��How can I use the Gospel to ascend further in the Virtual Realm?��


    Sometimes, it��s hard to tell whether the sorcerers are thinking big or small.


    And climbing in the Virtual Realm can be divided into two specific goals: Exploration in Virtual Realm, and Realm Faction.


    Soon, sorcerers discovered that when they faced bottlenecks in the Faction Realm, they could seek guidance from the Gospel. Theoretically, as long as their Talent was high enough, sorcerers from the Gospel Kingdom could continuously advance their Faction Realm. To put it in writing terms, it meant that everyone could be an author who updates tens of thousands of words daily, rather than one who struggles with just a few thousand words.


    However, there were still many highly potential sorcerers who found that despite listening to the Gospel, they could not understand it. Clearly, this was due to theirck of effort, and sorcerers certainly didn��t care about those who couldn��t keep up.


    Why are there so many levels in the Virtual Realm? It��s to make sorcerers aware of their ss status.


    But in terms of Exploration in Virtual Realm, sorcerers found that the Gospel wasn��t much help.


    The biggest issue was that they couldn��t summon the Gospel in the Virtual Realm.


    To be precise, the Gospel is a Miracle that exists only within the Gospel Kingdom. Once outside the Gospel Kingdom, not just in the Virtual Realm but even when in other Kingdoms, it is impossible to summon the Gospel.


    Unable to ask for a guide in real-time, sorcerers could only Pray for the Gospel��s blessing before entering the Virtual Realm, but such blessings were exorbitantly expensive��for example, a simple pathfinding blessing like ��Guide sorcerer to the nearest Knowledge Creature�� could cost as much as the Points reward for the first ce in the National Rankings for a month.


    The Gospel certainly had the power to add powerful blessings like ��Guide sorcerer to the nearest Resource Point,�� ��Knowledge Creatures automatically avoid sorcerer,�� or ��Wild spirits run over to serve as a sorcerer��s dogs.�� However, these blessings were priced at a national level, affordable only if the entire Gospel supported one person, which was extravagantly expensive.


    But the love of sorcerers for the Virtual Realm wasn��t something that could be suppressed by mere prices. If the expensive ones were unaffordable, then they would look for cheaper alternatives.


    Over the years, sorcerers have gradually found some affordable blessings suitable for the Virtual Realm. Sorcerers who mastered these secrets either established Families,panies, or some mysterious forces to train their subordinates, or they founded firms to give back to the public.


    Bliss and Comfort Firm was one of thetter.


    They mastered the Gospel secrets that allowed them to target others in the Virtual Realm, leading to the development of the ��Murder in Virtual Realm�� service. While other firms also had methods of killing, most were indirect, not daring to take action themselves, and if the target was a wealthy individual with power and influence, most methods would be rendered ineffective.


    Money and power are barriers far more formidable than thew itself.


    For instance, the second-ranked Broken Home Firm only managed to eliminate lesser families; theycked the capability to destroy a major Family.


    However, ��Murder in Virtual Realm�� was different. In the Virtual Realm, all external attributes of a Sorcerer became meaningless; the only thing one could rely on was their own strength.


    During the era when Bliss and Comfort Firm rose to fame, over 100 Wealthy individuals, Civil servants, Red Caps, and even members of the Royal Family died in the Virtual Realm. Everyone knew they were murdered by Bliss and Comfort Firm, but no one could convict them.


    Governing through the Gospel was a fundamental policy of the Yisuo Royal Family, and incidents that happened in the Virtual Realm were not protected by the Gospel. Anyone who dared to attack thew-abiding citizens of the Bliss and Comfort Firm was considered a criminal in the Gospel Kingdom.


    The headquarters of the Bliss and Comfort Firm was even located right next to the central office of the Red Caps in Azura.


    The lobby of the firm disyed a list on the wall, all names of those who had fallen victim to Bliss and Comfort.


    This was their audacity; no one could touch them.


    However, avoiding assassination by Bliss and Comfort Firm was simple: just stay out of the Virtual Realm. Ordinary people would never be targeted by Bliss and Comfort Firm, but it was nearly impossible for Sorcerers not to enter the Virtual Realm. Not only for the sake of increasing their strength, but also because spending two hours a day in the Virtual Realm could keep one energized all day, whereas ordinary people needed at least six hours of sleep. This difference effectively extended the lifespan of Sorcerers by 12.3%pared to ordinary people.


    To avoid assassination at the cost of reducing one��s lifespan? No one would make such a losing deal.


    Thus, Bliss and Comfort Firm developed a second service: the Whitelist.


    Once you pay an annual fee, Bliss and Comfort Firm guarantees that they will not target you for that year. The fee varies from person to person; if there were many contracts out on your life the previous year, then your fee for the next year will significantly increase.


    From the Yisuo Royal Family down to the major Families, Bliss and Comfort Firm��s Whitelist includes almost all ruling sses within the Gospel Kingdom. Of course, there are those who do not subscribe to this arrangement, such as the local Red Cap, Cleos in Azura��who simply ignores them��since no Sanctuary Sorcerer fears assassination.


    However, even Sanctuary Sorcerers cannot kill them without repercussions, unless they no longer wish to operate within the Gospel Kingdom. Although Bliss and Comfort Firm generally does not provoke Sanctuary Sorcerers, when they first started the Whitelist service a hundred years ago, one Sanctuary Sorcerer kept provoking them. Instead of assassinating the Sorcerer, Bliss and Comfort Firm killed all of his Two Wings and One Wing rtives.


    After that Sorcerer ughtered the firm��s employees, he was wanted by the Gospel Kingdom, bing a Merit in the eyes of the Red Caps. He was quickly arrested and, following Gospel judgment, executed.


    A few yearster, Bliss and Comfort Firm resurfaced and continued the Whitelist service, but this time no one dared to challenge them.


    They did not bow to the assassins; they bowed to the Gospel.


    The Gospel had established fair and just rules of the game; if you can��t beat others, then you deserve to lose.


    In the past fifty years, Bliss and Comfort Firm has rarely acted, sometimes not killing a single person in a year, yet they have be the wealthiest in Azura by collecting protection money from the rich, proving that earnestbor is inferior to redistributing wealth from the rich.


    Recently, Bliss and Comfort Firm finally received a long-awaitedrge contract.


    ��Assassination Target: Ashe Heath��


    ��Reason for Contract: Ashe Heath��


    There were many clients, including the Yisuo Royal Family, Cleos, and other regional Red Caps. Bliss and Comfort Firm epted all orders.


    Although Red Caps generally have a contentious rtionship with the firm, no one wants to sh with Gospel Merit. As long as Bliss and Comfort Firm sessfully carries out the assassination, the Gospel Merit will be distributed ording to the financial contributions made by the Red Caps who invested in the assassination fund, because investing money is also considered contributing effort, and the Gospel is very fair.


    Ashe Heath was not on the Whitelist, which allowed Bliss and Comfort to rightfully ept themission and dispatch all thirteen of their Two Wings assassins, including Amodo.


    These thirteen sorcerers all received the ��Targeting Ashe Heath�� blessing, enabling them to find Ashe easily once they entered the Virtual Realm as directed.


    Determining when Ashe would enter the Virtual Realm was simple��they consulted Cleos for the utility usage data at the Annan household, deducing that Ashe Heath��s time in the Virtual Realm spanned from 11 PM to 5 AM.


    Having received the contract on May 11, they chose to execute the task at 2 AM on May 12. At this time, Ashe would definitely be in the Virtual Realm, having already used a significant amount of Soul Energy, making it the perfect opportunity to deliver him to his fate.


    Amodo specialized in the Mechanical and Earth Factions, both of which are the expertise of the Earth Empress and evidently, he too was a victim of the *Sorcerer Duel* series. However, mastering these factions offered its advantages, such as the ability to construct bicycles on the Time Continent which not only saved Soul Energy but also allowed for rapid movement.


    However, Amodo realized that his assassination target had even faster means of movement. As he moved straight towards his target, the guiding mark began to fade, initially leading him to believe he had taken a wrong turn. Upon closer observation, he realized it was because his target was moving faster than him, increasing their rtive distance.


    Strange, he thought, I am riding a bicycle and I��m already going fast. I am ranked tenth nationally and second in Azura on the cycling Ranking List, reaching speeds of 70 kilometers per hour, almost as fast as a Hovercar.


    What kind of transportation could Ashe possibly be using?


    An alchemical puppet? An enved Knowledge Creature? But none of those should be faster than my bicycle.


    Could he possibly be driving a sports car?


    Amodo was puzzled, but he would soon find out the answer��as per the guiding mark, he was very close to the target, and the target was moving towards him.


    Am I the first one to arrive? he wondered.


    No doubt, Ashe��sbat abilities were not impressive, as evidenced by his absence from any sorcererbat Ranking Lists. To Amodo and his fellow prepared assassins, Ashe was like a fish on the chopping block, a practice workbook in front of a top student, just waiting to be dispatched.


    The distribution of the bounty was based on contributions to the Battle, so Amodo didn��t hold back. He prepared the Miracle ��Boiling Mire�� and ��Thousand Thorns�� and nned to give Ashe a warm, blissful hydrotherapy bath as soon as he appeared in sight.


    One significant issue with Virtual Realm Assassination was how to annihte the target��s Soul.


    In cases of normal death, a Sorcerer would only lose part of their Soul, which could be inconvenient in reality, but a few months of Rest would typically suffice for recovery, leaving them far from actual death.


    Therefore, assassins from the Bliss and Comfort Firm used specially developed Miracles for killing. Compared to regr Miracles, these required more arcane energy but didn��t significantly increase in power.


    The primary effect of the killing Miracles was to damage the target slowly and from all directions.


    This was the secret to killing in the Virtual Realm: don��t kill the target outright but instead ce them in an environment of Continuous Damage. When the target dies in such a condition, their Soul is nearly depleted, leaving only remnants insufficient to support a physical body.


    Even if not dead, the target would enter a state of unconsciousness, unable to recover for at least Ten Years. It was rumored that some clients paid extra to ensure their targets were thrust into this prolonged state of unawareness��


    The guiding mark grew brighter��it was just ahead!


    It wasing!


    But Amodo felt something was off��why was the ground shaking?


    The Ashe Heath described in the information wasn��t a several-ton surprise egg; how could he cause such vibrations?


    But there was no time left to think��the guiding mark was at its brightest, and Ashe Heath was right there behind the curtain of rain��


    Buzz!


    A convertible sports car whizzed past him, brushing shoulders. Although Amodo instantly cast his Miracles, both the thorns and the mire were effortlessly crushed under the wheels of the car.


    Not to mention, there was a thin barrier on the car.


    ��Another one?��


    A question was left hanging from the car as it sped away, leaving Amodo to m the brakes on his bicycle and stand still, inhaling the dark green exhaust left behind.


    His mind was a whirlpool of questions.


    What did he mean by ��another one��?


    Why was he driving a sports car?


    Why were there two other people in the car?


    Why did those two people look like beautiful young girls?


    Why did the exhaust from the sports car make my eyes sting and my face feel like it was rotting?


    Why is the car gone, but the shaking is getting stronger?

 Chapter 299: The Man Who Lost His Memory

    Chapter 299: The Man Who Lost His Memory


    The assassination expert sensed something and slowly turned his head, just in time to see a gigantic spider emerge from the Reverse Golden Rain.


    Its body was like obsidian, with eyes more brilliant than rubies��eight in total. Its mouthparts were densely packed with razor-sharp fangs, capable of instantly paralyzing the courage of all onlookers.


    On the fluffy back of the spider, a figure sat crossed-legged. Before Amodo could make out his face, the Octo-eye Spider enveloped Amodo��s body with its silk��


    ��Crumbling Fang Pir!��


    ��Mechanical Mind!��


    ��Earth Barrier!��


    Realizing it was a matter of life and death, the expert unleashed several Defensive Miracles in an attempt to prolong his life. However, all attacks and defenses were in vain; the white spider silk, seemingly transparent, effortlessly passed through all obstacles and slowly wrapped around Amodo. It looked less like Amodo was caught by the silk and more like he had willingly fallen into it.


    The moment he touched the silk, Amodo��s mind began to scatter.


    His thoughts drifted far and wide; he saw himself killing Ashe, earning a substantial amount of Points, finding his destined partner in the Gospel, then getting promoted to a Sanctuary Sorcerer, bing a shareholder at the Bliss and Comfort Firm, and founding his own Family in Azura��This was not an Illusion, nor was it hypnosis, for Amodo knew he could break free anytime he wished.


    But he couldn��t break free.


    Because this was his Destiny.


    Destiny�� weaving��


    Amodo��s eyes gradually turned lifeless as the spider silk tightly bound him and then threw him to the rear support troops. Bird dragons, fire dragons, and fish dragons joyously devoured this prey. Compared to the native species of the Time Continent, the unrefined Souls of sorcerers, not baptized by hell, were like heavily oiled, salted, and spiced fried food, highly favored by Knowledge Creatures.


    Themander on the Octo-eye Spider paid no heed to this unfortunate passerby. He nced at the tire tracks on the muddy ground, his eyes conveying a sense of frustration.


    Really can run, huh? Has he mastered advanced Logistics Magic?


    Spectator Danzel gazed at the Reverse Golden Rain before him, his vision seemingly piercing through the curtain of rain, fixated on that frantically speeding convertible.


    To set up an ambush for ido, the Star Shepherd, they had meticulously prepared for over a dozen rounds.


    The Star Hall is not among the strongest forces in the six countries. If they could eliminate ido, a leading heroic soul and an Incarnation of the Stars, then the Spider Pavilion could take the opportunity to upy parts of the Star Hall��s Area.


    However, if ido managed to escape back, the ambush would be a total failure. Even if ido lost arge number of troops, it was a peaceful period, and the six countries had abundant resources, allowing the Star Hall to quickly reassemble a force for ido.


    They had to continue the pursuit and prevent him from escaping back into Star Hall��s rounds. They must either kill him during the Spider Pavilion��s rounds or trap him in the Spider Pavilion��s Area until the next round!


    Although they hadn��t caught up yet, Danzel had been deliberately limiting the direction of the escape to prevent ido from fleeing toward the Star Hall Area.


    As long as the opponent remained in the Spider Pavilion Area, defeat was only a matter of time��


    Danzel opened the map of the Spider Pavilion and suddenly his gaze sharpened; they were near a special building.


    They couldn��t possibly��


    This ��couldn��t possibly�� thought had just crossed his mind when the ��Red Cap Gueri��, responsible for scouting, saw the car charge into the cabin area, and the three people inside immediately got out and went inside.


    Soon, the Spider Pavilion Legionpletely surrounded the cabin, but the power of the Virtual Realm prevented Knowledge Creatures from entering the courtyard, leaving hundreds of armed forces to merely spectate from outside.


    Danzel fell into thought.


    Firstly, a heroic soul would absolutely not seek refuge in a special building, as it would be pointless��once the Chariot of the Bull departed, time woulde to a standstill, and staying in the special building would be akin to sitting ducks.


    Moreover, heroic souls would instinctively avoid special buildings, which seemed to bear signs that read ��Commanders and Dogs Not Allowed��, making heroic souls inherently disinclined to enter.


    Although Danzel had retrieved a fragment of his Soul from hell to fill the void within, his way of thinking was still in the mode of a heroic soul, with his mental ��double room�� only housing two tenants: logical reasoning and absolute rationality.


    ��Heroic souls would not enter a special building.��


    ��So, they are not heroic souls.��


    ��They are Sorcerers who have killed a heroic soulmander and obtained the Soul Summoning spirit, hence mistakenly believing themselves to be heroic souls.��


    After shifting his perspective, Danzel noticed several suspicious points: they had no apanying troops, the three of them moved together, they were riding strange alchemical machinery, and their appearances did not match any other Star Hallmanders�� They likely were not heroic souls.


    This meant that ido was already dead.


    But the Incarnation of the Stars still existed, and Spectator Danzel��s orders were to destroy the Incarnation of the Stars, now residing within a Sorcerer. His task was not yetplete.


    Moreover, since they were Sorcerers, it meant they could disconnect from the Virtual Realm inside the building and safely return to reality, potentially ensuring his mission��s failure.


    However, while Danzel would not enter the Virtual Realm building, the operational rules of all buildings within the Spider Pavilion territory were already marked on the map.


    After a brief review, he realized he might still have a chance to rectify the situation.


    As he pondered, another Sorcerer blundered into his troops. Naturally, this unwee visitor was quickly dispatched by the Red Cap Gueri and the Bluebeard Breakers.


    If this had been another force��s troops, the Sorcerer might have had a chance to escape, but the Spider Pavilion��s armed forces were experts at control and restraint. In Danzel��s long millennium of campaigning, no one had ever escaped the pursuit of the Spider Pavilion troops.


    This was the only fish that had slipped through the.


    After reaching his conclusion, Danzel left the Octo-eye Spider and headed towards the cabin alone.


    Apanying troops could not enter special buildings, but a heroic soulmander who was once a Sorcerer still retained the privilege to enter Virtual Realm buildings.


    Ordinary heroic soulmanders would absolutely not take such action, as their hollow hearts were not enough to enable them to act opportunistically. Only heroic souls who had retrieved a few seconds of heartbeat from hell, gaining a semnce of humanity, could possess this ��reckless abandon��.


    The moment he pushed open the cabin door, Danzel felt lighter, as if something had vanished, and numerous thoughts in his mind fell into silence.


    Inside the cabin were six people: a man and a woman confronting each other, another woman shivering in a corner, and three people calmly spectating.


    What was impossible to ignore was that the three spectators looked exactly like the three who were confronting and trembling.


    As Danzel walked in, the confronting man and woman both looked over and asked in unison:


    ��Who are you?��


    ��Just like you,�� Danzel looked at the three strangers in front of him. ��Someone who has lost their memory.��

 Chapter 300: Observer, You Are Truly Despicable Now

    Chapter 300: Observer, You Are Truly Despicable Now


    Have the Chariot of the Bull step back a few paces, to the moment when Ashe and Amodo brushed past each other.


    Although they inadvertently involved another Sorcerer, Ashe and hispanions felt no guilt, as they had also seen the Sorcerer trying to attack them by Casting Miracle. With this serendipitous encounter, they felt justified in leaving the responsibility of covering their retreat to him.


    As they continued on their journey, they encountered several Sorcerers, almost without exception, each one raising their hand to attack upon seeing them. Ashe and his group, concerned about the average quality of Sorcerers, floored the elerator and moved on, deciding not to stoop to their level.


    ��Why are they still after us?!�� the rustic girl scratched her head in annoyance upon hearing that the legion��s roar showed no sign of stopping: ��Didn��t they say that a beast, after eating someone else, wouldn��t chase anymore?��


    ��The heroic soul forces are not natural beasts, but a civilized institution, and the essence of civilization is to eradicatepletely, not to stop when satisfied,�� Ashe casually remarked. ��But there��s a problem here��the heroic soul legion wouldn��t specifically target Sorcerers unless the Sorcerers jump in their faces. We��re running so fast, why won��t he give up? We haven��t even insulted him yet.��


    Witch Deya spected, ��Could it be because the Swordswoman and I are too beautiful, and he wants to snatch us away? Just like an Evil Dragon would snatch a Princess����


    ��The snatching is real, but not of us,�� Sonya analyzed calmly. ��His target is likely the Observer.��


    ��Me?��


    ��Didn��t you say that a powerful heroic soulmander sought refuge in you, only to be absorbed by you? It��s like a little rabbit trying to escape a fox by jumping into the arms of someone picking mushrooms������Are you saying, Swordswoman, that you are skilled at cooking rabbit meat?��


    ��In short, the fox behind us is actually after the rabbit, not us. But he doesn��t know the rabbit has already been swallowed by the Observer, so���� Sonya��s gaze hardened as she continued seriously, ��The only solution now is to hand over the Observer.��


    ��Indeed.�� Deya nodded, her hair split into ck and white, but her voice was not harsh: ��The fox won��t listen to our exnations, he just wants to bite the rabbit. As for who the rabbit is, the fox doesn��t care.��


    ��At this point, there��s really no other choice����


    ��Yeah, yeah����


    Listening to the two Operators discuss how to essentially sell him off, Ashe remained remarkably calm and even volunteered a n: ��I��ll see if there��s a River of Flowing Gold nearby. If there is, I can dive into it to divert their attention, and then you two can take the opportunity to drive away.��


    ��However, the River of Flowing Gold is hard to find, and it��s more likely that there are mining pits and Resource Points around here. I can hide in a mining pit to buy some time. If it reallyes down to it and we��re about to be caught, then you two should get out of the car immediately, disconnect from the Virtual Realm and return to reality. I��ll drive the car back towards them; that should buy you at least 20 seconds.��


    ��But I��m actually a bit scared of being killed by a creature from the Virtual Realm. Maybe you two could just kill me to make the fox behind us give up. Swordswoman, you said that a Sorcerer��s injuries at death would affect reality, right? Then you should aim for my stomach when you attack. I��ve been eating a bit too muchtely and wanted to lose some weight anyway����


    Listening to Ashe ramble on about nning his own death, Sonya and Deya exchanged nces, seeing frustration in each other��s eyes.


    ��Enough already,�� Sonya said, feeling utterly disinterested: ��You know we would never leave you behind, so stop unting your sacrificial virtue.��


    ��No, I think selling me off here is actually a good option,�� Ashe insisted. ��If we keep going like this, we��ll all end up dead sooner orter. Better for one to die than all three. You are my Operators, and your lives are much more valuable than mine. Plus, I am indeed the core issue right now.��


    ��If it��s to protect you, dying once is a price I��m willing to ept.��


    Originally, Sonya was just taking the opportunity to emphasize that the crisis was entirely due to the Observer alone, to highlight her own unyielding noble character, which shone brilliantly enough to make the Observer eternally grateful and speechless, thus indebting him to live his life in repayment of Miss Swordswoman��s great kindness.


    Unexpectedly, the Observer had seen through her scheme and even turned it against her, which was quite infuriating. Now, not only had she failed to move the Observer, but she actually found herself having a higher regard for him!


    ��Dying in the Virtual Realm isn��t really dying!�� the rustic girl fiercely chopped at the Cult Leader��s neck: ��Why make it sound so grave? Are you trying to make us feel so indebted that we��d sacrifice ourselves? Do you want us to feel guilty every night,e to the Virtual Realm to serve you, then you can rest your head on my thighs while I massage your temples, and have your feet massaged by the Witch, making every night��s Exploration in Virtual Realm feel like a vacation?��


    ��Why even fantasize, and why so detailed����


    Deya sighed, ��Observer, you really are despicable right now.��


    Ashe rolled his eyes; he hadn��t intended to please these two masters. He genuinely believed that sacrificing himself was the most cost-effective option. After all, he was originally reluctant toe to the Virtual Realm. Now, he could legitimately request sick leave, lie at home ying games, and the Operators couldn��t even me him. Why not enjoy it?


    Moreover, his death wouldn��t be a big loss, as the Witch and Swordswoman��s gains in the Virtual Realm would still be shared with him. On the other hand, if the Witch and Swordswoman were to die, then Ashe would be at a real loss. He alone couldn��te to the Virtual Realm, no one else would have surplus to be exploited by him, and his training wouldpletely halt.


    ��Is there any chance we can escape?�� asked the rustic girl.


    Ashe opened the map of the Virtual Realm and shook his head: ��The fox deliberately drove us into a dead end.��


    When they were first chased, Ashe��s initial reaction was to try driving towards the Star Hall area. After all, ido was themander of Star Hall, and his enemies were clearlymanders of hostile forces. Although Ashe didn��t know if the Time Continent had a ��Homnd Security Act��, just entering the Star Hall area would likely make the pursuers more cautious.


    However, every time he tried to turn north towards Star Hall, there were long-range attacks from above thwarting his progress. Not only did they fail to head north, but the distance between them and the pursuing troops had actually decreased.


    The enemy had clearly anticipated his moves and dispatched a blocking force.


    Compared to these tactically savvy heroic soul legions, Knowledge Creatures like ying Fish-Dragon seemed as naive and adorable as L Fatty.


    ��Since you refuse my noble sacrifice, we now have three options,�� Ashe said. ��First, both of you join me in entering the Static Domain to await death or simplymit suicide. Although it would still end in a total wipeout, it would minimize the damage to our souls. I��ll try to get some potions that heal the soul, and we could be back in the Virtual Realm in no more than ten days.��


    ��Second, destroy the Soul Summoning spirit. Although I��m not sure which part of the rabbit the fox wants to eat, throwing out the whole rabbit is definitely the safe bet.��


    Upon hearing this, both the Swordswoman and the Witch shook their heads. If it had been the old Soul Summoning spirit, they might have let it go, but after Ashe introduced the new troops that could be summoned by it, they were unwilling to give it up no matter what.


    Star Prayer! Meteoric Warrior! These units far surpassed the capabilities of Two Wings Sorcerers, and although it was unclear if they were on par with Tri-wings Sorcerers, on the Time Continent, armed with these two units, they would be virtually unstoppable, ying ying Fish-Dragons as if they were mere chickens.


    Moreover, these advanced Star Hall units were extremely difficult to acquire. Low-level heroic soulmanders like Demilo were only defeated after the three sorcerers exerted all their efforts, and a high-levelmander like ido, who traveled with arge entourage and could even equip himself as a Meteoric Warrior�� It would be impossible for even arge group of sorcerers to defeat ido.


    If not for a stroke of luck, Ashe would never have unlocked these advanced units. It would have been much easier to achieve a Promotion to Tri-wings Sanctuary Sorcerer than to kill a heroic soulmander.


    And although there was no clear reason, given the difficulty of acquiring the Soul Summoning spirit, they believed it had to be tied to greater benefits. More importantly, they knew they would likely never get another chance to seize a new Soul Summoning spirit.


    Compared to losing this potential opportunity, they would rather have the Observermit suicide.


    ��It might not even be about the Soul Summoning spirit,�� Sonya suggested. ��Maybe it��s rted to the Commander��s Handbook you just absorbed�� By the way, what skill did you choose?��


    ��It shouldn��t be, because I chose Financial Management.��


    ��Why!?�� eximed the rustic girl, shocked: ��Isn��t the technique that increases experience for all Factions better? We don��t even have enough soul power to arm our troops! You don��t have enough money to manage, do you?�� By the end, she was so frustrated that she reverted to her rural dialect.


    ��But it��s Financial Management! It��s like investing in the future!�� Ashe defended. ��Who could resist the temptation of investing in the future?��

 Chapter 301: House of Reflecting Souls

    Chapter 301: House of Reflecting Souls


    Neither Financial Management nor offensive tactics were of any help under the current circumstances. They quickly put aside this minor issue��only temporarily, as Sonya would surely tease Ashe in the future, joking about his ��inability to manage even a penny��s worth of iron.��


    ��The third option it is: find a special Virtual Realm structure that the heroic soul legion can��t enter, dive in, and disconnect from the Virtual Realm immediately. We lose nothing,�� Ashe said as he maneuvered the car to avoid a long-range attack. ��But the problem is these types of Virtual Realm structures are hard to find.��


    ��Is there no option for a counterattack?�� Deya asked. ��Like using your invincible little car to run them over?��


    Sonya looked at Deya and noticed an additional streak of red hair��clearly, a Red Death Eater had also joined the meeting.


    Ashe exined, ��Most of the modifications on this car are designed to deal with Knowledge Creatures, like the ��Refractive Barrier��. It can withstand Gregarious Creatures all day long, but against the heroic soul legion, a single volley from them would shatter this thin barrier�� If you say the heroic soul legion is the regr army, then we are just street thugs, only bullying the honest folk.��


    Sonya responded, ��Though we don��t im to be crusaders of justice, there��s no need to describe us in such an unsavory light.��


    Besides this, Ashe was actually still gathering resources to build the ��Alchemical Throne��. This modification would significantly speed up their absorption of Gold arcane energy. However, he was still missing a key resource, so he had not made any other modifications yet.


    Thud!


    An attack from out of sight once again struck the ��Refractive Barrier��, causing ripples to spread. On their escape route, the pursuers�� long-range attacks hadn��t stopped, forcing Ashe to enhance the ��Refractive Barrier�� to Level 11, otherwise their little car would have been sted apart long ago.��Refractive Barrier Level 11: The auto-car is enveloped by a barrier with 4000 health points, all damage to the barrier is reduced by 42%.


    Level 6 special effect: Additional 30% damage reduction from long-range attacks.


    Level 11 special effect: Before damage reduction calctions, refract 22% of the original damage to nearby non-Operator creatures.


    Next level requires 1175 Ore Essence, 1175 Wood Essence, and 630 Mercury Essence.��


    When the Refractive Barrier was activated, the sports car only received 21.84% of the damage from long-range attacks, calcted as (100% �C 22%) * (100% �C 42% �C 30%). It was thanks to this significant damage reduction that they had managed to hold on until now.


    But that was as far as they could go.


    Ashe nced at the barrier��s health. ��The barrier is about to break, n three is about to fail.��


    Upgrading the Refractive Barrier further would be just a drop in the bucket, and moreover, the barrier only made sense when facing the heroic soul legion. Against ordinary Knowledge Creatures, the defensive power of the barrier was outrageously high, the reflected damage alone could kill arge group of Gregarious Creatures.


    ��Swordswoman, it��s your turn.��


    ��What do you mean?��


    ��You��re not really foolish enough to die with me, are you?�� Ashe chuckled. ��That would be such a waste�� Just kill me quickly, and the pursuers will naturally give up. Soul Summoning spirit can keep the soul intact, only I lose a bit of my soul.��


    Thud!


    The Refractive Barrier trembled weakly, like a candle in the wind that could go out at any moment.


    ��Hurry up, you��re not the type to hesitate.��


    ��Why does it have to be me?�� Sonya pulled Deya over. ��Witch, let the Red Death Eater do it!��


    ��I can��t, I can��t!�� Deya shook her head repeatedly. ��I��m actually very afraid of blood����


    ��Considering the gore of the scene, your normal attacks are almostparable to my Blood Flower Water Moon, what are you afraid of, Small horn!�� Sonya pushed Deya forward. ��Just use your invincible death thread to cut the Observer in half!��


    ��No!�� Deya, skilled in the Fist and w Faction, quickly restrained Sonya. ��Swordswoman, you��re more familiar with the Observer, you do it!��


    ��That��s backward, the less familiar the easier it is to act, it��s harder when you care!��


    ��I��m not doing it, the White Queen also told me not to, and the Red Death Eater doesn��t want to either!��


    ��Wait!�� the rustic girl suddenly thought of something. ��Why don��t you just kill yourself instead of making us do it? Are you trying to make us feel guilty, so you can control us better?��


    ��How could you think that of me, Swordswoman!�� Ashe said angrily. ��Do I look like someone who would manipte people��s hearts so thoroughly!?��


    ��Hard to say, after all, you��ve known me for so long, you must have picked up some of my finer qualities, birds of a feather flock together.��


    Damn, the Swordswoman��s words were all too convincing.


    ��I��m definitely not killing you,�� Sonya struggled free from the Witch��s grasp. ��Don��t make me do this.��


    ��I won��t either,�� Deya also shook her head. ��What if you resent me for it?��


    ��Even though you can��t really die in the Virtual Realm, actually going through with killing apanion feels like crossing an invisible line.��


    Ashe fell silent for a moment, sighed, and drew his longsword, aiming it at his own stomach. ��Then I guess I have no choice but��Wait!? A special Area just appeared!��


    Sonya remarked, ��How convenient.��


    Deya added, ��The White Queen thinks it��s convenient too.��


    ��Were you just testing to see if we��d go through with it? Then using our guilt as leverage?��


    ��Observer, you really are despicable.��


    Ashe decided not to stoop to the level of these two cold-hearted Operators and steered the sports car toward the golden hint Area. From his experience, any golden hint usually indicates a very rare Area, like ��Destiny��s Inquiry,�� ��Miracle Isle,�� ��Whirlpool,�� or ��Legendary Library.��


    But this golden hint was a bit odd��


    ��It seems like it might be suitable for you, but then again maybe not.��


    Despite some unease, Ashe drove into the special Area.


    It was a cabin with a small garden around it, appearing just like an ordinary farmhouse.


    Before entering, Ashe emphasized, ��As soon as we get inside, we leave the Virtual Realm immediately. Don��t get tempted by any rewards inside, in case we can��t hold off the heroic soul legion outside.��


    After the Swordswoman and the Witch nodded earnestly, they entered the cabin together and found nothing particrly mysterious inside��the hardwood floors creaked pleasantly underfoot, a simply patterned woven carpet made the in rectangr dining table feel cozy, kitchen utensils were arranged on a windowsill, and various artworks rested on a handmade rack.


    In the cabin, there were no lights, but on the Time Continent, lighting was the least of concerns. The Reverse Golden Rain operated as independent providers, offering ��delivery to your doorstep�� services, and in terms of business capabilities, they were in no way inferior to the monopolistic, customer-deceiving sun.


    Additionally, the cabin was furnished with soft chairs, swings, toddler rocking horses, hammocks, lounge chairs�� There were unexpectedly many ces to sit, suitable for ages from one to a hundred, as if the original owner of the cabin had arge family spanning five generations.


    ��Chairs, so many chairs���� Sonya mused, ��I feel like I��ve seen this somewhere before����


    ��Yes! I remember now, this ce is the House of Reflecting Souls, the biggest feature is that any Sorcerer who enters will����


    ����lose their memory.��


    As the rustic girl finished her sentence, she noticed a man in a Dark Red Trench Coat and a strange, dirty-haired young girl appearing beside them.


    ��Who are you!?�� Sonya immediately stepped back, sword pointed at them: ��Don��te any closer!��


    ��I should be asking you that!�� Ashe also drew his sword in response: ��How did I end up here?��


    Deya stumbled against the wall, then slumped down, her expression twisted in pain, covering her face and muttering to herself: ��Who are you�� why are you in my head�� get out, get out now!��


    At that moment, a piece of information surfaced in the minds of all three:


    [You have lost all memories of your non-knowledge skills]


    [You have also lost three precious treasures along with your memories]


    [To retrieve your treasures, answer three questions posed by ��you��]


    [Answer incorrectly, lose the treasures; answer correctly, receive a reward equivalent to the treasures�� value]


    [Failing to answer is the same as answering incorrectly; leaving this cabin will restore all memories]


    [��You�� is already waiting for you]


    The three turned their heads and saw on the bench beside them, on the soft chair, on the swing, each sitting their��


    ��Now we are the real entities.��


    Phantom Ashe smiled, ��Because I possess your memories, and now you��ve even forgotten your own name.��


    Phantom Sonya sat on a mahogany soft chair, legs crossed, scrutinizing them with sharp eyes: ��Shouldn��t there be only one person����


    ��What does it matter!�� the multi-colored haired Phantom Deya, swinging on the swing,ughed: ��Isn��t it more fun with everyone together?��


    Ashe, Sonya, and Deya werepletely stunned by the scene before them.


    Just then, Danzel, wearing a Spiderweb Cloak, pushed open the wooden door and entered, instantly triggering their stress response.


    ��Who are you now?��


    ��The same as you,�� Danzel responded, looking at the three strangers in front of him. ��Someone who has lost their memory.��


    Simultaneously, Danzel��s Phantom appeared on the lounge chair.


    However, unlike the Danzel shrouded in the Spiderweb Cloak, Phantom Danzel had her cloak open, revealing her wheat-colored skin and prominently curvaceous upper body. With her striking eyebrows and starry eyes, she exuded a bold and robust aura, lounging carelessly on the chair.


    It took a moment for the three to realize��was she actually a woman?


    Phantom Danzel, groggy and sleepy-eyed, sat up from the lounge chair and rubbed her eyes, then looked at her own hands as if discovering a treasure. After a second of gathering her thoughts, a look of realization spread across her face: ��Well, that��s alright����


    ��Though there are quite a few of us, it doesn��t hinder the game,�� Phantom Ashe said cheerfully. ��But since there are indeed many, for convenience, let��s have code names to distinguish us from you nameless ones�� Hmm, call me Observer.��


    ��Swordswoman.��


    ��Should I go by Princess, or Death Eater, or perhaps Empress�� No, let��s stick with Witch!��


    Phantom Danzel pondered for a moment: ��Empress.��


    ��Alright.��


    Observer pped his hands: ��Who among you will be the first to answer ��your own�� question?��

 Chapter 302: You Are All My Wings

    Chapter 302: You Are All My Wings


    Inside the cabin, an unimaginable scene was unfolding��eight people, but only four faces.


    Half were real, the other half Phantoms.


    Yet, the real ones had lost all their memories, while the Phantoms not only retained theirs but also were tasked with assessing their real counterparts. Although the reversal of roles might sound amusing, it was anything but for those involved.


    ��How could such a thing happen���� Sonya gripped her longsword, shaking her head as she loudly objected, ��How could something so absurd be true? You must be lying to me! You are all viins, every one of you����


    It was less of a rebuttal and more of her convincing herself.


    ��A very typical reaction,�� the Swordswoman remarked calmly. ��Once the disguise of peeled-away memories is gone, all you��re left with is a deep-rooted wariness of the world��you desperately want to control your own Destiny, unable to tolerate being adrift.��


    The Observer shrugged, ��Different from someone else, aren��t you?��


    ��However, you might not want to believe, but also can��t afford not to, because you don��t know what precious thing you��ve lost,�� the Swordswoman continued. ��Nothing hurts more than loss, and you��re not one to easily admit defeat.��


    ��Resilient yet fragile,plex yet simple, wary yet longing for embrace�� You really are so easy to manipte,�� the Swordswoman turned to the Witch, ��Compared to that, your guest seems about ready to leave.��At that moment, Deya waspletely curled up in a corner, hugging her knees and burying her head inside them as if praying to be invisible. She trembled all over, mumbling unintelligible words, her hair as filthy as a bucket of paint, her clothes constantly changing��ck stockings on her left leg, white on her right, and both feet in red boots, her hands in mismatched sleeves.


    Compared to the Witch, who was na?ve, cute, dignified, and graceful, Deya looked like a dirty child in a clown��s outfit.


    ��Hey,�� the Witch called out loudly, ��Don��t be scared, okay? How about trusting them a bit more?��


    However, the Witch��s words only had the opposite effect. Deya shuddered violently, already on the brink of mental copse from the voices in her mind, unable to withstand any external stimtion. She gasped for air, crawling along the wall, moving towards the exit��she wanted to run away.


    Memories, precious treasures, she didn��t care about any of it; she just wanted to leave this ce as quickly as possible!


    Watching the vulnerable Deya, the Witch narrowed her eyes slightly, her deep gaze swirling with invisible turmoil.


    Typically, Sorcerers enter the cabin alone. Although most Sorcerers be restive and hysterical after losing their memories, they usually stay after being soothed by the Phantoms�� words to participate in the game andplete the quiz.


    But after her memories were stripped, Deya couldn��t live in Harmonious Coexistence with the sisters in her mind; she couldn��t even understand what was happening to her��why were there so many noisy voices in her head?


    If she were the only one here, the tranquility of the cabin might allow her to calm down gradually��the cabin was designed to be leisurely andforting specifically to soothe Sorcerers panicked by memory loss.


    But besides herself, there were several ��strangers�� in the cabin, which to the timid and faint-hearted Deya felt almost like a torturous hell.


    Who are they?


    Who are you?


    Run, quickly escape from here, there are so many strangers��


    ��Look.��


    Deya lifted her head and saw Ashe crouching in front of her. At Ashe��s fingertips was a shimmering Sword Light, which morphed into blooming flowers, paper cranes, and yful kittens, instantly capturing Deya��s gaze.


    ��Sweet or salty, which do you prefer?��


    ��Sweet.��


    ��Same as me. Do you like the feeling of flying?��


    ��No, flying so high is scary.��


    ��I quite like flying����


    As Ashe posed various questions, he slowly moved closer to Deya, crouching beside her and gently stroking her head, smoothing his hand down the back of her head to lightly pat her back. Deya found thisforting; the tension on her face eased significantly, and she nuzzled into Ashe��s embrace like a kitten, her dirty hair color slowly bing clearer.


    ��I know you��re scared,�� Ashe said softly. ��I��m scared too. Scared people should stick together, so that even if dangeres, at least we won��t die alone.��


    Deya and the sisters in her mind were taken aback. The logic was sound, but�� it somehow didn��t make much sense.


    ��Are you scared too?�� Deya asked. ��I can��t tell.��


    Hearing this, Sonya hesitated for a moment but soon made up her mind.


    She approached Ashe and Deya and extended her finger to perform a miracle.


    The Mind Miracleposed of ��Sincerity,�� ��Vibration Sword,�� and ��Killing Intent����


    Miracle: Treat with Sincerity!


    A cluster of glowing red light emerged from her fingertips, shining as brilliantly as a ruby. She motioned for them to touch it, and Ashe was the first to reach out. Deya hesitated for a moment before also cautiously extending her index finger towards the red light.


    Fear, worry, unease, fright, loneliness, tension�� A flood of emotions crashed against their mental shores, and they quickly realized these were Sonya��s current emotional states.


    She used the miracle to prove that she was just like them, a frail young girl panicked by memory loss.


    Though still scared, finding out that everyone else was just as frightened helped Deya rx a bit, and the voices in her mind gradually quieted down��actually, the sisters weren��t that panicked. It was only the ck Butler who kept painting everything in a negative light, fueling the fear, while the White Queen constantly tried to persuade and stop the ck Butler. But for the naive Deya, their bickering alone was already overwhelming.


    For humans, social creatures that they are, nothing is moreforting than increasing the presence of their own kind.


    ��So that��s how it is����


    ��Hmm?�� Sonya looked at Ashe, who was murmuring to himself, ��What did you say?��


    ��You see, I know how tofort her, and you know how to make her feel at ease around us,�� Ashe said earnestly. ��This suggests that we must have been together for a long time, so even after losing our memories, our bodies still understand each other instinctively.��


    ��We are all puzzled about why we are here, but that��s actually two questions: ��being here�� and ��why we are together.�� We still haven��t found an answer to the former, but the answer to thetter may be emerging����


    ��It��s because our rtionship is so close that we ended up here together. I don��t know your personalities, but based on what I��m thinking now, if I knew I was going into a ce where I��d lose my memory, I��d only go with people Ipletely trust.��


    Deya and Sonya thought about it seriously and felt that Ashe made a lot of sense.


    ��If it were me,�� Sonya said, ��I would only go with the people closest to me.��


    Deya nodded in agreement, ��I would onlye to such a ce with someone who could protect me.��


    Ashe turned to Danzel. ��What about you?��


    Danzel was slightly startled. ��Am I also with you guys?��


    ��What else? Why else would you be here? You must have felt thating to this ce with us was the best option, so you followed us in.��


    The logic was indeed impable, and after thinking it over, Danzel said, ��If it��s someone I��d be willing to lose my memory with, it must be someone I��d also not hesitate to give my life for.��


    ��Excellent!�� Ashe stood up and dered, ��I��vepletely understood our rtionship now!��


    The others were taken aback. ��Really?��


    ��It��s actually simple logic,�� Ashe said, patting Deya on the head. ��You would onlye with someone who can protect you, which means I am someone who can protect you��so you are my sister!��


    ��And you,�� Ashe looked at Sonya, ��you would onlye with your closest people, so��you are also my sister!��


    ��And finally, you,�� Ashe turned to Danzel. ��You feel that you would only go with someone you would not hesitate to give your life for����


    ��So, am I also your sister?�� Danzel asked.


    ��No,�� Ashe said, ��I think I should be your boss.��


    ��Wait a minute,�� Sonya raised her hand, ��My closest person could also be a lover, not just family. Why����


    As she spoke, she suddenly realized something, her cheeks reddening as she averted her gaze.


    ��I considered that, but don��t you think it would be strange if we were lovers and I was also with my sister?�� Ashe exined. ��Unless����


    ��Unless what?��


    Ashe looked at Deya, ��Unless she��s also my lover, which could exin why we are so affectionate with each other.��


    Sonya smirked, ��So you think having two lovers isn��t strange? You might as well say she��s your daughter.��


    ��I��m hardly old enough to have a daughter that age����


    Danzel interjected, ��The person I��d be willing to give my life for doesn��t necessarily have to be you, right?��


    ��But one of them is either my lover or my sister,�� Ashe continued, ��and the other one is also my lover or my sister. No matter which one is your boss, I��m the boss of your boss�� Wait, I know who you really are now!��


    ��Think about it, there��s no reason to bring a subordinate along whether I��m with a sister or a lover!��


    ��So, your true identity is��my paramour!��

 Chapter 303: Eliminating the Wrong Option

    Chapter 303: Eliminating the Wrong Option


    Despite the lingering doubts about Ashe, the atmosphere inside the cabin had undoubtedly be much more rxed; there was no drawing of swords or suspicious nces at one another.


    They all agreed on at least one thing: their connections were undoubtedly deep, which was why they had ended up together in this amnesia-stricken cabin.


    Whether they were friends, lovers, or rtives, those details were minor.


    Given more time, they could have untangled the situation themselves, but the negative effects of amnesia were too overwhelming: suddenly finding yourself in an unfamiliar ce, surrounded by strangers, with no one to rely on, and not even remembering your own name, as if an infant thrown onto the streets, utterly alone and facing the harsh reality, where even the air seemed to suffocate you.


    Unlike an infant, whose only response might be to cry, Sorcerers still had violence not yet erased from their repertoire.


    In the cabin��s solo mode, most Sorcerers, panicked, would attack Phantoms, but Phantoms could not be destroyed, and the Sorcerers could gain some sense of security through venting their violence.


    Even if they couldn��t calm down, they at least could recognize their situation and choose whether to leave or engage with the game.


    But multiyer mode was different��wasn��t it better to direct their violence toward the ��strangers�� they didn��t recognize instead of their own Phantoms?


    It was almost expected when Ashe and Sonya drew their swords against each other. Given Sonya��s fierce temperament and high guard, if Ashe had been equally hot-headed, a fight would have been nearly inevitable. Fortunately, Danzel��s entrance interrupted their round of Battle, and then the arrival of the Phantoms diverted their attention.Yet, their rtionship crisis was far from resolved, because the cabin was simply too small. If they were to engage in a question-and-answer game, the other upants would inevitably be present.


    Their rational strings were stretched too tight to continue bearing ��the gaze of others.�� As long as the others were present, they couldn��t proceed with the game.


    The Phantoms had no contingency for such situations. They knew how to guide and soothe Sorcerers, but there was no mechanism within the cabin to mediate conflicts between them.


    However, there was no need for Phantoms to resolve conflicts either.


    The Phantoms were soothing the Sorcerers simply to facilitate the question-and-answer game. If the situation continued to deteriorate, it was highly likely that only one of the four would remain in the cabin, the others either driven out or eliminated.


    Though the number of participants was reduced, as long as there was someone left in the cabin, the question-and-answer game could continue.


    Thest person remaining could answer questions for all four individuals, and if they could correctly answer the others�� questions, they could naturally im the others�� rewards.


    Therefore, when Ashe and hispanions began discussing their rtionships, the Phantoms did not intervene or disturb them. They had expected a brutal free-for-all to ensue, but surprisingly, Ashe managed to unite everyone, including Danzel who arrivedter�� The Observer, Swordswoman, and Witch quickly nced at the Empress, who looked back at them calmly.


    ��It sounds like you��ve reached a consensus,�� said the Observer. ��Are you interested in answering some questions now?��


    ��Wait, you just said you have our memories,�� Sonya suddenly remembered something. ��Can you tell us what our rtionship is?��


    ��We cannot,�� the Witch said, shaking her finger. ��We cannot reveal any specific information to you; you must answer questions in a state ofplete amnesia.��


    Ashe then said, ��Aside from revealing information, if I ask you to do something, would you agree?��


    ��What would that be?��


    ��For instance, you,�� Ashe pointed at the Observer and then at the Swordswoman, ��go kiss her, and make it a French kiss.��


    The faces of the Observer and Swordswoman showed no change, not even a flicker of their eyshes. However, for some reason, everyone felt as if the light in the cabin had dimmed slightly.


    Before the Phantoms could respond, Sonya grabbed Ashe by the cor, her face flushed with anger, and said, ��What are you talking about?!��


    ��Think about it, they are Phantoms with our memories, right? They canmunicate and seem to have the ability to think, which means we can consider them as ��another self��,�� Ashe exined calmly. ��If the Observer and the Swordswoman can kiss naturally, that would mean we are in a romantic rtionship.��


    ��What if they don��t want to?��


    ��Then we lower the level of probing, from kissing to hugging. If hugging is okay, then we definitely have a close rtionship simr to that of rtives,�� Ashe exined. ��Using this method, we can gradually test the depth of everyone��s rtionships.��


    Sonya paused, considering the feasibility of Ashe��s method.


    Ashe took Sonya��s hands off his cor and held them gently. ��Although I haven��t been making a fuss or losing my temper, I��ve also lost my memory. You��re scared, and I��m just as uneasy. It��s not just you��I also want to find evidence that can prove our rtionship.��


    ��I want to trust you all unreservedly,�� he whispered. ��In a dark world, nothing is moreforting than cing your hand in someone else��s.��


    At that moment, the Phantoms seemed to finally grasp themand embedded in Ashe��s words.


    The Observer waved a hand and shook his head, doubly denying Ashe��s request: ��No, we��re only here to guide you through the questions. We won��t fulfill requests that go beyond answering them.��


    ��But this is a request rted to the questions!�� Ashe immediately said. ��I think it��s absolutely necessary for you to kiss the Swordswoman����


    ��Even though we are just temporary Phantoms, we also possess a certain level of intelligence,�� the Swordswoman said calmly. ��Don��t try to persuade us with your words. We fully understand that you��re trying to use our interactions to gain memory information, and that��s not allowed. Give it up.��


    Seeing the Phantoms refuse, Sonya felt a bit dissatisfied: ��Can��t you make an exception? After all, you are me����


    ��If you yourself became a fleeting thought, would you satisfy someone else��s wishes?�� the Swordswoman retorted with a coldugh. ��You should be d I��m not really you��otherwise, you��d be in even more trouble.��


    Sonya thought about her own personality and reluctantly shut her mouth.


    ��So it means we can��t find evidence to confirm our rtionships,�� Ashe said. ��Then let��s tentatively assume you all are my lovers or paramours. Or would you prefer to be my sisters?��


    Deya timidly said, ��Sisters.��


    ��Why does it have to be one or the other?�� Sonya interjected. ��Is not choosing not an option?��


    ��Because thisys the foundation for our answer during the quiz,�� Ashe exined earnestly. ��Let me put it this way: if you all are my lovers or paramours, then it implies that you are willing to share your love, which extends into three logical conditions: First, our rtionship isn��t equal; I��m in a dominant position, which might be due to individual strength or social status. Second, there are significant interests and bonds tying us together, making it rational for you not to leave me. Third, we might have gone through a lot together, so emotionally, you��re unwilling to let go.��


    ��If these three conditions aren��t met, then our rtionship as lovers can��t be exined. These conditions can serve as a basis for your answers and help you make decisions. Simrly, if you were my sisters, other logical conditions would apply.��


    ��I��m not trying to take advantage of you, but withplete memory loss, this reasoning is the only lifeline we can cling to.��


    Sonya��s face flushed between red and white, feeling a mix of inferiority and shame surge through her as she saw how reasoned Ashe��s argument was and realized her own previous irrational behavior. ��Who knows what you��re really thinking!��


    ��If I have to choose,�� Danzel, who had been silent, suddenly spoke up, ��I��ll choose paramour.��


    Sonya looked at her in surprise. ��Why?��


    ��No particr reason,�� Danzel replied calmly. ��I just feel that the word ��sister�� is a bit too distant for me.��


    Ashe turned to Sonya, ��What��s your choice? Remember, this is just for the purpose of answering the quiz and doesn��t define our real rtionship��if you don��t like these options, you can propose a new identity. Just as long as it exins why we��re together.��


    Sonya did not respond immediately. She looked down at the pattern lines in the wooden floor, her left hand holding her right, appearing hesitant.


    If Danzel had chosen the identity of a sister, Sonya would definitely have picked sister too.


    However, after Danzel chose the role of a paramour, Sonya felt oddly ufortable.


    Despite remembering nothing, not knowing who anyone really was, and feeling only caution and suspicion, there was an inexplicable sense of defeat within her.


    This feeling of defeat was not directed outward as anger, but inward as self-reproach. It seemed as if by maintaining her tough, hedgehog-like demeanor, she was losing something or, perhaps, missing out on something.


    Sonya nced sideways at the Swordswoman, who was scrutinizing her with an indifferent gaze that betrayed aplexity of emotions no one could decipher.


    ����Lover.��


    ��Huh?��


    ��It��s not real anyway.�� Sonya, in a moment of resignation, picked a chair and sat down: ��Let��s answer the quiz!��


    ��One identity each, sister, paramour, lover,�� Ashe dered. ��Let��s call each other that for now.��


    Deya tugged at Ashe��s sleeve, ��What about you?��


    Ashe paused, then smiled, ��I actually forgot about myself�� However, since I assigned your identities, it��s only fair that you choose mine. What do you want me to be?��


    Sonya replied sarcastically, ��Our ve.��


    Danzel thought for a moment, ��Our master?��


    Deya hesitated, her eyes catching a painting on the cabin wall, depicting a Knight protecting a Princess from an Evil Dragon. She then said, ��I wish you were�� a Knight protecting us.��


    ��Alright, I��ll be the Knight,�� Ashe decided cheerfully. ��It seems continuing this discussion won��t reveal any new information, so����


    ��Let��s start the quiz.��


    Ashe sat down on a bench with Deya, while Danzel moved to sit next to Sonya.


    The four exchanged looks, and Ashe asked, ��Who wants to go first?��


    The question was almost like asking which oil drum wanted to volunteer as a firefighter. Deya immediately shook her head, and Danzel fell silent. Just as Ashe was about to raise his hand, a sharp p on the table echoed next to him.


    ��I��ll go first.��


    The determination in her bell-like voice was clear.


    Sonya stared intently at the Swordswoman, her eyes alight with a mixture of bravery, insecurity, and defiance. Unfortunately, the only person in the cabin who could fully understand her was sitting right across from her.


    ��So eager to prove yourself?�� the Swordswoman lowered her eyelids, ��As you wish.��


    ��Now, begin with your first question.��


    The Swordswoman stood up and pulled a sketchbook from a shelf nearby��no one could remember if there had been a sketchbook there before, or even if the shelf had been there at all.


    ��Among these three people, who do you love the most?��


    The Swordswoman opened the sketchbook, revealing three images:


    A inly dressed middle-aged farmwoman;


    A small, dark-skinned girl who didn��t look particrly lovable;


    And�� a Hooded Man sitting in a Boat.


    ��First, let��s eliminate this incorrect option,�� Ashe pointed at the image of the Hooded Man.

 Chapter 304: The One I Love Most

    Chapter 304: The One I Love Most


    As Sonya began to answer the question, everyone leaned in to see, including Danzel.


    Then, they looked at the Hooded Man in the painting, and then at Ashe.


    ��Isn��t that you?��


    ��Right, I too think it��s me,�� Ashe replied. ��So, this answer definitely isn��t correct.��


    Though Sonya agreed, she didn��t understand Ashe��s confidence. ��Why are you so sure?��


    ��Because the question was ��the one I love most,���� Ashe exined. ��Leaving me aside, what do you think the rtionship is between the other two people in the other paintings and the Lover?��


    There was a moment of hesitation before everyone realized Ashe was referring to Sonya as the Lover.


    Deya nced at the middle-aged farmwoman and spected, ��Could this be the Lover��s (Sonya��s) mother?��


    ��It might also be a foster mother, a teacher, an aunt, etc.,�� Danzel added. ��But regardless of her exact role, judging by her age, she likely has a nurturing rtionship with the Lover.��Sonya nodded. ��Even though I have no memory of her, she feels familiar, likely a rtive of mine.��


    Ashe slightly nodded in agreement with their views and pointed to the painting of a small, dark-skinned girl. ��And her?��


    Danzel guessed, ��Daughter?��


    Sonya frowned slightly. ��Maybe my sister?��


    ��Stop talking!��


    As they discussed, a hysterical scream suddenly erupted nearby. Deya was seen doubling over, furiously pounding her head, her slightly cleaner hair beginning to get dirty again.


    ��Stop talking, stop, stop, stop! Stop arguing in my head!�� Her cries were mixed with sobs.


    The reason Deya had calmed down earlier was because Ashe had captured her attention with his intricate, hard-to-disprove reasoning, keeping her and her sisters busy digesting information, leaving no room for thought.


    Once Ashe stopped monopolizing her attention, the sisters became restless like children without parental supervision. It had started as a simple guess about the identity of the little girl in the painting, but their discussion had evolved into a debate and finally into an argument that Deya could no longer tolerate.


    ��Bite.��


    Deya felt something being stuffed into her mouth and instinctively bit down hard. As the sensation of biting spread throughout her body, the screams stuck in her throat slowly subsided, and the pressure was gradually released as her teeth clenched together, even quieting the arguing voices of her sisters.


    It was then that Deya realized she was biting Ashe��s hand. She quickly let go and blew on it, ��Sorry, I����


    ��It��s okay, it doesn��t hurt.�� Ashe said, ��Look, there��s not even a mark. Don��t worry about it�� this really is a magical ce.��


    ��Feeling bad is like drowning, the more you struggle, the more it hurts. The right way to save yourself is to stay still and let someone else pull you out of the water. When you feel ufortable, just bite my hand.��


    Deya grabbed Ashe��s hand, hesitated, then nodded and sheepishly licked the spot she had just bitten. Ashe couldn��t help butugh, ��No need to savor it like that. Hmm, if you feel you��re not in a good state, you don��t have to join our discussion. Just feel free to chew on my hand.��


    Deya took a moment to realize that ��sister�� referred to herself. She was about to agree, but her expression turned ufortable again. She opened her mouth and pressed it against Ashe��s hand, but did not bite down, as if looking for the best spot to bite.


    However, after a moment, she suddenly said, ��We think, she is not the Lover��s daughter, nor the Lover��s sister.��


    ��She is the Lover herself.��


    Perhaps as an apology, or perhaps to prove she was more than just noise, the sisters in her mind told Deya this answer, strongly urging her to speak up.


    The others were taken aback, looking carefully at the dark-skinned, thin little girl in the painting, then at Sonya. Sonya was dressed tonight in a blue and white dress with a gold-edged red coat draped over her left shoulder, looking like the most beautiful protagonist on stage, a stark contrast to the little girl in the painting, like a bright flower against green leaves.


    ��While that is possible,�� Ashe said, ��the resemnce isn��t convincing enough, is it?��


    Sonya also shook her head vigorously��she genuinely did not want to associate herself with the in-looking girl in the painting.


    On the other hand, Danzel nodded, ��Now that you mention it, they do look alike.��


    ��How do they look alike?�� Sonya retorted. ��The nose, the mouth, the eyes, none of them match, do they?��


    This was precisely why they hadn��t considered this possibility initially: if it were a younger Sonya, one would likely be able to recognize her from her facial features, as people��s features generally follow a consistent pattern as they grow, and even with many changes, it is possible to see the traces of time. However, Sonya and the little girl in the painting, although notpletely dissimr, had enough differences to make it difficult to immediately connect them.


    ��The eyes are very simr.��


    Deya shook her head and said, ��She�� we think, the gaze of this little girl is exactly like yours, Lover.��


    ��Alert, stubborn, bright.��


    Sonya was taken aback, lowering her head to make eye contact with the little girl in the painting.


    Her gaze�� it��s a lot like mine?


    As their gazes intersected, as if triggering some Miracle, Sonya blinked and found herself entering the world within the painting.


    This was the edge of a forest just outside a vige, a small stream flowed from the woods into the town, the Radiant Star��s brilliance streamed in the river, danced on the river pebbles, and sparkled in the children��s eyes.


    Not far away, a few children were arguing. Sonya couldn��t hear them clearly, but from the children��s expressions and gestures, it seemed that apart from the emphatic tones, the rest of the words were probably offensive insults.


    This was not a Battle of equals. One side was a mixed group, while the other was a one-person army �� the little girl stood alone, inviting several peers to challenge her. With her hands on her hips, she stood atop a rock, looking down on them. Her rapidly moving lips and the nearly tearful faces of her enemies were enough evidence of a one-sided ughter.


    Soon, the other children were chased away by her words, but the victor was not pleased either. She walked grumpily to arge tree near the stream, sat down against the trunk, tapped her Bracelet, and summoned a Holographic Screen to y educational videos.


    She was dressed in clothes that had faded to gray from repeated washing, her skin darkened and roughened bybor under the sun, and it was apparent that her nutrition wasn��t adequate. She looked visibly thinner and more frail than her peers, as if a gust of wind could blow her away. She casually plucked a foxtail grass and twirled it between her fingers, a skill she seemed to have practiced a lot.


    Although this world seemed to offer her little beyond sunshine and nature, her eyes showed no confusion or despondency but were instead fixated on the educational videos on the Holographic Screen, her gaze animated by the knowledge she was absorbing.


    She hugged her legs tightly to her chest, curling into a ball as if to protect herself or perhaps to hide.


    Seemingly noticing something, the little girl turned to look at Sonya. In her youthful, clear eyes, Sonya��s spherical reflection was visible.


    ��Lover?��


    Hearing Ashe��s voice, Sonya was snapped back to reality. She looked again at the album, but this time no strange phenomenon urred, as if what had just happened was merely an illusion of Sonya��s.


    After a brief silence, Sonya nodded firmly, ��Yes, that was me as a child.��


    Although it was unclear how Sonya was so certain, it was obvious that the opinion of the answerer held the utmost importance. Ashe epted this assumption and said, ��If that��s the case, then the answer bes quite clear.��


    Danzel asked, ��We have only deduced the identities of these three people, but the question asks who the Lover��s ��most loved�� person is. How do you know the answer?��


    ��The concept of ��most loved�� is really aboutparing the degree of affection. Since it can bepared, we can use a process of elimination,�� Ashe exined. ��If out of these three, one must die, Lover, whom would you choose?��


    Sonya hardly hesitated, ��You.��


    ��Good, then among the remaining two, if another person had to die���� Ashe continued.


    Sonya��s pupils dted, and she turned to stare directly at Ashe.


    Deya timidly said, ��This doesn��t seem quite right, after all, we currently have no memories. If we had our memories, perhaps we would make different choices����


    ��We��ve only lost our memories, not our personalities,�� Ashe exined with a shrug. ��If we need to add ��memories�� as a variable to specte the correct answer, then our current discussion is pointless. Who knows, maybe I��m the Lover��s favorite?��


    ��Besides, memories aren��t static; personality influences memory.��


    Amidst the puzzled looks of everyone as if to say ��what are you talking about,�� Ashe continued, ��Memory is actually a rather ambiguous and subjective form of information. When you want to hate someone, you tend to overlook their virtues; and when you like someone, you also tend to ignore their ws.��


    ��If you are an optimistic person, you are likely not to remember sad events; if you are always ming others, you won��t remember the beautiful moments in life.��


    ��Love and most loved are distinctly different concepts. Memory can make you fall in love with someone because of the emotions that arise from what you��ve invested in them; however, memory cannot change who you love the most. Most loved denotes the one for whom you would sacrifice everything, even if it means changing your own personality to suit them��that��s what ��most�� really means.��


    ��Therefore, I believe the answer to this question, Lover (Sonya), will not change whether memories are present or not, because you made your choice a long time ago. To protect ��your most loved,�� you��ve already modified your memories and adjusted your personality.��


    ��But, you don��t need to answer my question.�� Ashe helped Deya up and gestured for Danzel to turn around with him, ��Although it might seem like self-deception, we won��t look at your answer. We hope you don��t worry about us and give the most sincere answer.��


    ��No need.��


    Sonya calmly stated, ��I don��t know you; why should I care about you? The Knight is right; who my most loved was had been determined long before we entered the cabin. Therefore, my memories, my personality, and everything about me are all for making my most loved person��s life better.��


    ��So, Swordswoman, my answer is��my most loved person is this little girl.��


    ��I noticed you were all having such a lively discussion, so I didn��t interrupt,�� the Swordswoman remarked. ��ording to the rules, each question equates to one of your treasures. Answer incorrectly, and you lose it immediately; answer correctly, and it is returned double. The treasure bound to this question is��your Swordsmanship Faction Realm.��


    ��Even though you��ve lost your memories, you still retain the knowledge that should help you understand the significance of this treasure, right?��


    Sonya��s expression remained unchanged: ��My answer stays the same.��


    ��Good,�� the Swordswoman said crisply. ��You answered correctly.��


    With a flick of her finger, two streams of golden light entered Sonya��s body: ��This is your Swordsmanship Faction Realm and your reward��a Time Faction Realm of the same level.��


    Before Sonya could fully process this reward, the Swordswoman flipped to another page in the album: ��The second question��among these three people, who do you dislike the most?��


    One was a woman with messy hair, dark circles under her eyes, and her feet on a desk, holding a sword.


    Another was a young woman in beautiful clothes, applying makeup in front of a mirror.


    And then there was a woman dressed in pure white silk stockings, short sleeves, and a skirt, looking dignified, gracious, and friendly, but her face was identical to Deya��s mixed-colored hair.


    Deya blinked and pointed at the woman in white, saying, ��First, let��s eliminate this incorrect option����


    ��No, don��t eliminate it just yet,�� Ashe grabbed her wrist. ��I think this might be the correct option.��

 Chapter 305: Four Deyas, One Ashe

    Chapter 305: Four Deyas, One Ashe


    They had not eliminated the incorrect options.


    When the Swordswoman announced the answer was wrong, Ashe felt a collective sigh of relief from everyone.


    Unlike the first question, which dealt with an middle-aged farmwoman and a little girl, marked by their ages, the second question involved three individuals around the same age with no resemnce to Sonya, clearly indicating no familial rtion. Moreover, the question was about ��the most disliked person,�� suggesting these three were likely not even friends of Sonya, making it impossible to glean further information. Thus, Sonya had no choice but to choose the only person she recognized��the pure white Deya.


    But if the answer truly was Deya, then the situationplicated: Why would Sonyae to the amnesia cabin with the person she disliked the most? Was she being set up? Should she take this opportunity to deal with her most disliked person?


    Furthermore, if Sonya and Deya were enemies, what did that mean for Ashe and Danzel? Were they her enemies as well?


    Digging even deeper��could it be that these four weren��t closepanions bound by Life Link, but rather irreconcble foes?


    Ultimately, the harmonious facade that Ashe had constructed was exceedingly fragile, fragile enough that a single answer could shatter itpletely. Therefore, any oue where Deya was not the answer was a relief for everyone, Sonya included, who felt as though a great weight had been lifted off her chest.


    ��Answer incorrect,�� the Swordswoman stated. ��You have lost your treasure��the Mind Faction.��


    The Swordswoman rubbed her fingertips together, creating a silver glow that dissipated into thin smoke, symbolizing Sonya��splete loss of a Silver Rank spell from the Magical Factions.Sonya didn��t feel much reality to it, but watching her own possessions and rewards vanish was heart-wrenching, as painful as watching ice cream fall to the ground.


    Suddenly, she turned to Ashe and asked, ��I��m still your Lover, aren��t I?��


    ��Huh? Oh, yes, you are. Why do you ask? We��re just temporary����


    ��Then give me your hand.��


    Sonya snatched Ashe��s hand and bit down hard, her eyes wide with force. Though there was no pain, the fierce bite made Ashe��s Soul shiver, even causing a phantom pain.


    Ashe began to seriously consider whether there was a fundamental w in his assumption��how could this possibly be my Lover? Even if I was momentarily blinded by beauty, my body couldn��t withstand such abuse!


    At least a sister might just be trying out my taste, but you, my Lover, seem like you want to bite off a huge chunk of me!


    Ashe looked at Deya grabbing his left hand while Sonya was biting his right hand. He turned his head towards Danzel.


    ��I have no hands left for you, which part do you prefer?��


    ����I probably don��t need to vent stress in that way.��


    After venting, Sonya felt refreshed and released her mouth, but still held on to Ashe��s hand as if she were a protective little she-wolf saving it for the next meal.


    ��Rest over?�� The Swordswoman showed no interest in their interaction, ��Then let��s start with the third����


    ��Wait! Wait! Wait! Wait~~��


    The Witch suddenly darted into the center of the hall, striking a ��magical girl shining entrance�� pose: ��Let��s pause for a moment!��


    ��Swordswoman, I have a question simr to your third one, how about we ask them together? Otherwise, after she answers your question, my question will be simpler.��


    ��That��s fine.��


    The Witch looked at Deya: ��You have to answer a question too, are you ready?��


    Deya instinctively bit down on Ashe��s finger, her body trembling as she shook her head.


    Ashe immediately said: ��We should answer separately! It��s still the Lover��s turn to answer first, then it should be my sister��s turn. There��s no need for us to answer together.��


    If it��s the same question, it��s best to answer separately. If Sonya answers correctly, it means knowing the right answer; if wrong, it also helps eliminate the incorrect options. Only a fool would answer together.


    ��Hmm�� Did I phrase that wrong?����


    The Witch scratched her head in annoyance, her eyes narrowing slightly, the corners of her mouth curving into a dangerous arc.


    Suddenly, her voice burst forth with eighteenyers of Echo��


    ��Come answer the question.��


    Deya shuddered violently.


    It wasn��t just her; every voice in her mind quieted down as if they had encountered their natural predator.


    For the first time, Deya and the voices in her mind agreed: it was time to be obedient.


    Hiding behind Ashe like a chick pecking at grains, Deya nodded vigorously. The Witch instantly revealed a bright, innocent smile, as if her prior sinister charm had been everyone��s misperception. She spun on her toes in ce, her ck skirt blooming like a ck rose: ��Alright, now it��s time for the Witch and the Swordswoman to pose their question together����


    ��Wait.��


    A second interrupting voice echoed through the cabin, sharp like the tearing of paper.


    This time, it wasn��t just her real self; even the three Phantoms showed their surprise.


    The Empresszily stood from her lounge chair, her loose robe unable to conceal her regal aura, slipping down her shoulders yet clutching thest vestige of modesty at her chest. She approached like the wind, embracing the Witch with one arm and the Swordswoman with the other, smiling, ��It seems I also have a question, rather simr to the one you two are about to ask�� why don��t we do it together?��


    Despite the Empress��s straightforward disy of affection, the Swordswoman��s expression seemed as though she had encountered harassment: ��The questions may be simr, but the options might not be.��


    ��Exactly, exactly,�� the Witch responded with a bright smile, ��there��s really no room between the Swordswoman and me for anyone else, Empress. Perhaps you should seek the Observer��spany����


    ��Isn��t it better to have different options? It could increase the difficulty of the question,�� the Empress tilted her head slightly, ��or are you ��trying�� to reject me?��


    The eerie iceberg revealed just a tip of itself, a massive whale lurking beneath the waves, intermittently visible. The amnesiacs sensed something was off in the atmosphere, but without any information, they couldn��t decipher the undercurrents swirling among the Phantoms.


    The Observer, Swordswoman, Witch, and Empress exchanged looks for a moment, and then the Observer sighed, ��It��s a pity my question seems different from yours; otherwise, I��d love to join this question-posing mingling session.��


    The Observer��sment seemed to press a release button, and the tense atmosphere in the cabin instantly rxed. The Witchughed, ��How could we possibly refuse you, Empress? We��re more than happy to have more people��it��s more fun that way. Let��s all pose our question together, Swordswoman.��


    ��Right,�� the Swordswoman said, expressionless.


    At this point, Ashe whispered to everyone, ��You see their interaction; it proves my judgment is correct. You are indeed my sisters, lover, and paramour.��


    ��How does that prove anything?�� Sonya felt confused.


    ��First, the Witch consulted with the Swordswoman, and the Swordswoman readily agreed. This proves that the Witch and the Swordswoman are not enemies. That means you can��t all be my lovers, otherwise you would be rivals, and could not possibly get along so harmoniously. So, either you are all my sisters, or one is a lover and the other a sister. The current situation suggests thetter,�� Ashe analyzed confidently. ��But after the Empress asked to join in, the first reaction of both the Witch and the Swordswoman was to oppose��why oppose? Because in their eyes, the Empress is a homewrecker!��


    ��Later, the Observer��s statement was clearly siding with the Empress, even using the authority of a family head to force the Witch and Swordswoman to yield, suggesting they shouldn��t exclude the Empress. This shows that the Observer now prefers the Empress!��


    ��I��vepletely understood now,�� Ashe said convincingly. ��The sister is the one I��ve brought up since childhood, the lover is the one I��ve been in a rtionship with for years but recently entered azy phase, and the paramour is the one I��ve recently met and am passionately in love with!��


    The Observer seemed about to speak but stopped. The Witch��s mouth twitched as she struggled to control her facial nerves. The Swordswoman��s eyes narrowed slightly, whereas the Empress showed no reaction.


    ��Then aren��t you just a pure scumbag?�� Sonya asked sincerely.


    ��Whether I��m a scumbag doesn��t matter; the point is, this can serve as a basis for our answer,�� Ashe said. ��Besides, knowing I��m a scumbag and still liking me, don��t you think that��s also a crucial piece of information? Imagine, what situation would you be in to choose only me, faithful unto death?��


    ��I���� Sonya frowned, ��Only if it��s for a greater good.��


    ��Good, that means we have significant interests entangled,�� Ashe turned to Danzel, ��What about you? When do you think you would voluntarily be my paramour?��


    Danzel was thoroughly confused��honestly, she hadn��t believed a word of Ashe��s logical deductions earlier, primarily because she is reserved and restrained, quietly observing how things unfolded.


    However, the interactions among the Phantoms and Ashe��s spections started to shake her belief��could she really be Ashe��stest romantic interest?


    She wanted to object, butcked any other evidence.


    And if there wasn��t this connection, why would she find herself in this amnesiac cabin?


    ��As long as I deeply love someone, whether they love me back or not, I will devote all of myself to them,�� Danzel said. ��For me, being a paramour doesn��te with reservations.��


    ��Huh?�� Ashe was shocked. ��Am I really that admirable, to earn such affection? I��m a bit overwhelmed by the adoration����


    ��Save your surprised act for another time and hide that smirk you can��t seem to suppress!�� Sonya looked visibly annoyed, ��Setting aside whether you might be wrong, even if you��re right, it only proves you��re morally bankrupt, less substantial than even the ingredients in our meals!��


    ng!


    Suddenly, a sound of a sword being sheathed echoed. Everyone looked towards the Swordswoman, her expression unchanged as she sheathed her sword, ��Are we done talking? If so, let��s get started.��


    The Swordswoman, the Witch, and the Empress simultaneously pinched the top of the page in the album and turned to a new page together.


    Perhaps the difficulty was heightened by the fact that all three of them were answering the question at the same time; five portrait paintings appeared before the examinee.


    Then everyone was stunned.


    The first painting depicted a girl living in a basement.


    The second, a girl wearing a spiderweb mask.


    The third, a woman seated on a throne.


    The fourth, a girl with hair colored in ck and white.


    The fifth, a hooded man wearing a dark red trench coat.


    But the problem was, except for the fifth painting, the women in the first four paintings all had the same face!


    Everyone looked at Deya, and Deya, staring nkly at the four paintings, murmured, ��So many of me����


    Ashe��s lips twitched, ��Looking at it this way, the fifth painting of me seems a bit out of ce����


    Despite the differences in age, clothing, and decorations, everyone immediately recognized that the women in the first four paintings bore an exact resemnce to Deya!


    It was as if it were Deya in various poses, with different clothes, hair colors, and ages!


    ��This is the question that the three of you need to answer together.��


    Unlike the calmness of the Swordswoman and the cheerfulness of the Witch, the voice of the Empress always carried a weight starkly different from her appearance:


    ��If you knew you were about to die, who would you want to die with you?��


    ��Remember, since this is a question to be answered jointly by the three of you, the rewards and penalties will also differ���� the Witch��s voice carried a hint of mockery: ��Whether you answer correctly or not����


    ��The answer to this question might very well be reality.��

 Chapter 306: Girl of Peeping

    Chapter 306: Girl of Peeping


    ��Wait!��


    Sonya asked, ��Are you sure these four paintings are of different people? Not four paintings of the same person?��


    ��It��s our turn to ask questions,�� Swordswoman stated calmly. ��We will not, cannot, and do not wish to answer any questions regarding the topic.��


    Ashe inquired, ��What does ��bing reality�� mean? If they answer correctly, is the reward fulfilling their wishes by letting them die with the character they chose?��


    Witch made a ghost face: ��It might not even be about getting the answer right����


    ��Witch!�� Swordswoman snapped.


    ��Anyway, you can look forward to it with great anticipation,�� Witch giggled.


    Deya kept staring at the four paintings, murmuring softly to herself, unsure who she wasmunicating with: ��Is it you? No? But besides you, there can��t be anyone else who looks so much like me�� I think that one looks a bit like you����


    Ashe watched her worriedly, bringing his hand close to her mouth: ��Don��t just look, take a bite.��Deya gently bit Ashe��s hand, tasting it very modestly.


    Despite suddenly seeing four portraits of herself, Deya did not seem to be mentally impacted; instead, she found it rather amusing.


    It was like seeing a photo of herself with her sisters as children; she and her sisters began trying to identify each of them from their clothes, expressions, and appearances. Everyone was enjoying themselves immensely; there was no cause for arguments.


    Mainly because Ashe was there, a human stress-relief tool, Deya felt much braver.


    Had it been earlier, she would have shrunk to a corner and covered her ears upon hearing her sisters discussing, suffering in silence as the sisters argued; but now, being able to bite Ashe whenever stressed, Deya mustered the courage to actively engage with her sisters.


    Many things are just a matter of flipping between 0 and 1. Once Deya tried to ept them, she realized they weren��t so frightening. Taking that first step made the journey ahead much less daunting.


    With the four paintings as amon topic, Deya even dared to actively argue with her sisters, only needing to bite Ashe when their voices became too loud. This action wasn��t even about relieving stress, but rather a more subtle way of pleading, ��Please, don��t be so loud.��


    If Deya were to directly express her dislike, one of her sisters, dressed in a ck butler��s outfit, would likely mock her sarcastically, and then another sister, wearing white, would start arguing with her. This back-and-forth could easily overwhelm Deya.


    However, with Ashe��s hand as a signal aid, those unspoken humble requests could more easily touch hearts. Whenever Deya bit or licked his hand, the volume in her mind would quickly decrease, and her sisters would reconsider their points, thus reducing the intensity of the argument.


    ��How can we tell them apart���� Sonyained. ��These four all look exactly the same�� So do I have to choose Knight now?��


    ��Why don��t you think about it again?�� Ashe was somewhat nervous. ��The question is ��who do you want to die with,�� I think����


    ��Isn��t that very logical?�� Sonya retorted. ��ording to you, you and I are lovers who have known each other for many years, and because our rtionship has be idle, you went off to meet and be infatuated with a new paramour, but I still love you in my heart�� In this situation, if I were to die, I definitely wouldn��t leave you alive to enjoy life!��


    Ashe��s eyes widened. ��Isn��t there an option ��I hope you find happiness after I die��?��


    Sonya thought seriously for a moment: ��No, absolutely not. To make sure beyond a doubt, I think I would even prefer to see you die before me, so I can leave in peace.��


    If Ashe was just doubting his assumption before, now he was certain he had guessed wrong��she definitely wasn��t his lover!


    At least I pray she isn��t!


    At that moment, Ashe noticed Danzel staring intently at one of the paintings. Following her gaze, he saw she was looking at the painting of the Masked Girl and asked, ��paramour, do you have any clues?��


    Danzel nced at him and originally did not want to speak, but considering he might be her beloved, she confessed, ��I think I know why I entered this cabin.��


    At her words, everyone looked at her, and Ashe asked, ��How do you know?��


    ��Because of her.�� Danzel pointed to the spiderweb mask. ��Seeing this spiderweb mask reminded me that I possess a power that allows me to see through illusions and weave reality. Even if I lose my memory, I can still obtain the correct answers directly through this ability.��


    ��I knew I could pass the trial here, that��s why I came.��


    Without waiting for Ashe and the others to ask further, Danzel stepped back, and a dark blue magic circle with a spider pattern appeared under her feet. White spider silk extended from the circle, weaving up her legs.


    In just a few seconds, a transformed Danzel stood before them��all traces of her loose, all-epassing Spiderweb Cloak had vanished, reced by a garment woven from white spider silk.


    Her attire, with silk bindings only revealing her toes, a spider silk skirt highlighting her thighs, and a chest wrap that entuated rather than suppressed, forming a trembling curve. Her hands were wrapped with flowing ribbons, and her hair was casually tied back in a ponytail.


    And just like in the painting, she also wore a spiderweb mask, adding an unapproachable air of mystery to her dignified and sacred presence.


    She came over and sat next to Ashe, the soft chair dipping slightly under her. At this moment, Ashe reaffirmed his belief��my guess was right, she is definitely my paramour! Absolutely!


    Ashe, eagerly anticipating the day they would leave the cabin and regain their memories, quickly asked, ��What ability is this?��


    Facing her lover��s inquiry, Danzel did not hide the truth: ��The sixth warrior type of Spider Pavilion, the Girl of Peeping.��


    ��Spider Pavilion  Girl of Peeping: Any attack deals +40% Soul Damage. Equipped with 4yers of armor, humanoid creature, andes with special miracles ��Peeping��, ��Weaving��, and ��Concealment��. Each use consumes 15 points of Soul Power.��


    [Peeping: No secrets can hide from the eyes of the Girl of Peeping. She can ess all information about a target��s abilities, including but not limited tomand skills, Soul Power, miracles, and types of armed forces.]


    [Weaving: Destiny is the thread of the Girl of Peeping. When used on allies, it grants enhancements such as luck enhancement, arrow protection, increased critical hit chances, ensuring any damage taken is minimized, and enemies bing involuntary shields, among other benefits. When used on enemies, it causes luck reduction, increased hit probability, increased mortality rate, ensuring the lowest damage output from attacks, and tripping over t surfaces, among other debuffs. The casting time ranges from 1 to 60 seconds, with effects strengthening over time.]


    [Concealment: When other Spider Pavilion warriors are present, the Girl of Peeping is not the primary target of attacks. Enemies must eliminate other Spider Pavilion warriors before noticing the presence of the Girl of Peeping.]


    ��Can you make us into the Girl of Peeping as well?�� Sonya immediately asked.


    Danzel shook her head.


    It wasn��t that she couldn��t, but��


    ��Why would I make you into the Girl of Peeping?��


    Everyone was taken aback.


    ��If the knight��s guess is correct, and I am his paramour, and you are his sister and lover, and if you hold a grudge against me, then my current strategy should be����


    Danzel slipped her arms under Ashe��s armpits and hugged him, her strength surprisingly great as she pulled him several steps backward, her voice calm and clear: ��To keep you here forever, while the knight and I leave alone.��

 Chapter 307: Account Danzel Dolan

    Hiss, hiss, hiss��


    Unnoticed, invisible threads had already entangled Sonya and Deya. The threads on their bodies were dark and sticky, like the tongues of a quagmire, like the barbs of a demon. Within seconds, they umted thicker and thicker, imprisoning them in a decaying cage.


    ��Ah! How filthy!�� Deya eximed, jumping up and frantically trying to pull off the web. However, the threads, elusive and intangible, not only resisted her efforts but grew denser, turning her already mottled appearance into that of a thoroughly dirty girl. Moreover, as she shifted around in her chair, one of the chair legs suddenly broke, sending her crashing to the ground.


    ��You���� Sonya��s eyes sharpened as she drew her sword and charged at Danzel, but the next second, it was as if she tripped over something. She fell hard on the wooden floor, her sword flying out of her grasp!


    Such was the terror of Weaving!


    Danzel effortlessly eliminated two enemies!


    Ashe was dumbfounded, only recovering his senses a momentter. He turned to Danzel and said, ��paramour, was that really necessary? We don��t even have our memories, maybe����


    ��There are no maybes.�� Danzel gently pressed his face against Ashe��s, his deep purple lips brushing against the corner of Ashe��s mouth, ��As you said, character determines memory. I know very well what kind of person I am. If I truly love someone, then that person will be the only one in my heart, and I will demand that no one else be reflected in their pupils but me.��


    ��If, Knight, you truly are my paramour�� If I truly am your lover������Then I will not let you leave me, nor will I allow anyone else to approach you. Love is the exclusivity of each other; love is mutual possession.��


    ��Although I don��t know why the past me didn��t eliminate those two bugs beside you���� Danzel��s tone remained t, as if merely discussing why there was no L Fatty in today��s breakfast: ��But I am certain, the future me will thank the me of now for what I am doing.��


    Ashe had not anticipated that the harmonious rtionships he painstakingly built could backfire. During the recent deduction of personal rtionships, it was clear Ashe had his own motives; he intentionally positioned himself as the central node among everyone, naturally aiming to garner attention and even affection.


    Indeed, the results had been quite favorable. Deya, his sister, listened to him well. Sonya, though still cautious, was gradually opening up to him. Danzel, more introverted and reserved, seemed under Ashe��s control. With his deliberate guidance, at least no violent fights had broken out in the cabin.


    However, Danzel had been silent because he didn��t believe Ashe��s spections at all, letting him ramble on. But when Ashe, through interactions with phantoms such as the Empress, proved that he indeed was Danzel��s paramour, Danzel finally showed a glimpse of his true nature��a terrifying sea monster awakening beneath the calm surface.


    Seeing the actual entities suddenly fighting, the Swordswoman in the Phantom faction slightly narrowed her eyes, her fingertips touching the ruby hilt of her sword��


    A chilling gaze pierced through the Phantom��s shell. The Swordswoman slightly tilted her head, noticing the Observer smiling at her. After a moment of silence, she withdrew her fingers from the hilt, and the Observer then looked away.


    The Witch watched the women fight with great interest, while only the Empress noticed the interaction between the two Phantoms, a hint of confusion crossing her eyes.


    Noticing Ashe trying to break free from his embrace, Danzel held him tighter, ��Don��t move; let me handle this. It will be over soon, and I don��t want to hurt you����


    However, Ashe suddenly turned around and firmly embraced Danzel. Danzel was slightly taken aback but thenpliantly buried himself in Ashe��s chest.


    Though devoid of any memories, this sensation�� wasn��t too bad.


    ��You are a very dangerous woman,�� Ashe whispered into her ear. ��Dazzling and enchanting, yet your emotions are so intense and crazy. If it were up to me, I would be utterly bewitched by you, to the extent of risking ruin and destruction.��


    ��I even wonder if we came here to lure those two here and deal with them, so we could then be together without any worries forever.��


    Caught in the battle with the webs, Deya froze, lying on the ground staring at Ashe��s back. Sonya, who was just about to stand up, fell again, but this time it seemed particrly painful, and tears appeared about to spill from her eyes.


    Danzel��s calm face finally showed a trace of joy: ��I��m d you can understand my decision.��


    ��But,�� Ashe held Danzel tightly, ��that��s impossible because����


    ��I know I��m not the kind of man who can be ruthless.��


    The Witch chuckled for some reason, though no one noticed herughter because��


    Whoosh!


    Blue mes ignited on Ashe��s body. Danzel tried to break free, but found himselfpletely overpowered by Ashe, even with the enhancement of his troop type!


    It wasn��t just strength��those fouryers of armor protecting him felt like air as Ashe easily broke through, leaving Danzel almost naked and utterly controlled!


    The armor was effortlessly prated by the blue mes�� This was an ability that ignored armor!


    The blue mes solidified and transformed into armor on Ashe��s body, arming him as a Stardust Fighter!


    Star Hall Meteoric Warrior!


    Ashe slightly squatted, leaning back with force, and with his upper body, he took Danzel down��


    Back m!


    Crash!


    The passionate bass cannon vibrated through the entire cabin, and the surrounding furniture trembled as if apuding.


    Danzel felt dizzy, and by the time he regained his senses, he found Ashe straddling him. Ashe pressed his elbow against Danzel��s neck and said earnestly, ��Break their Weaving.��


    ��Kill me then.��


    ��Huh?��


    ��If you must protect them, then kill me.�� Danzel��s tone was calm: ��I won��t regret it nor change my decision. Now you are my lover, and they are my enemies. Only one of us can survive��now, I leave this decision to you.��


    ��We don��t even have our memories now, can��t we����


    ��Do you really rely on those clich��s that have solidified?�� Danzel said. ��If we were to lose our memories from this point on and had to start anew, would you choose to stay with me and leave them behind in this cabin?��


    Ashe was silent for a moment. Danzel, wearing an eye mask, seemed to see everything, his tone tinged with disappointment: ��It seems you��ve already made your choice.��


    ��My reasoning isn��t finished yet.��


    Suddenly, Ashe spoke, ��Although it��s likely we are intimate, that doesn��t necessarily mean I��m the intimate one for all of you.��


    ��paramour, did you not notice that you remembered your ability as the ��Girl of Peeping�� when you saw that painting? That��s your title.��


    Danzel was taken aback: ��You mean����


    ��The one you truly love might not be me,�� Ashe nced at Deya behind him, ��It could be her.��


    ��If we lose all our memories after leaving the cabin, you certainly wouldn��t regret a killing spree now. But what if you killed them and upon leaving the cabin, you found that your true love was among the dead? Would you regret it then?��


    Danzel fell silent.


    Ashe breathed a sigh of relief internally and pressed his offensive: ��You see, here, killing could lead to irreversible negative oues, but helping could only result in positive ones. Even if you helped your enemies by mistake, you could seek retribution once your memories return. There��s really no need for conflict����


    ��What about lovers?�� Danzel suddenly said. ��Knights and sisters appear in my title, but not lovers. If I killed her, there should be no risk, right?��


    Ashe paused for a moment, then nodded: ��Yes.��


    Sonya was startled; she didn��t try to get up, nor did she scream or plead. Instead, like a little girl under a big tree, she just stared stubbornly at the patterns on the wooden floor, refusing to indicate anything to Ashe through her actions.


    ��But she is my lover now, and I am her knight,�� Ashe said earnestly. ��Could you do me a favor?��


    ��Why not just kill me?��


    ��Because you are my paramour now, and���� Ashe tilted his head slightly, ��I don��t want to have regrets either.��


    Danzel and Ashe locked eyes through ayer of eye mask, and after three breaths, she nodded slightly: ��Okay, but you owe me one.��


    ��I will repay you.��


    As Ashe pulled Danzel up, the cobwebs on Sonya and Deya also silently dispersed.


    The four exchanged nces, and naturally, Sonya, who had just been embarrassingly entangled in cobwebs, was not in a good mood, and even Deya dared to stealthily re at Danzel. However, Danzel remained expressionless, showing no intention of apologizing.


    Ashe sighed, wondering if building this castle in the air had been a mistake, and bravely stepped between them: ��How about we just answer the question first?��


    Hearing the plea in Ashe��s tone, Sonya red at him fiercely but reluctantly sat down. Deya grabbed Ashe��s hand, bit it hard, then blew on it, showing she was also very angry, and sat next to Sonya.


    ��Is it over?�� the Witch said, seemingly a bit disappointed. ��Then let��s start answering the questions.��


    At this point, the three looked towards Danzel, and Ashe asked, ��Do you know the answer to this question?��


    Danzel nodded, activating her ��Peeping�� ability, and the pattern lines on the spider web eye mask glowed with a shimmering purple light.


    ��My answer is��her.��


    In the Fanm, Senhaeser Family district.


    ��It��s already three o��clock, Ashe��s connection to the Virtual Realm is stable,�� Banjeet reported. ��It looks like the Bliss and Comfort Firm hasn��t made a move tonight.��


    ��Or perhaps they have already retreated in defeat,�� Annan, lying in bed with a facial mask, said. ��Underestimating Ashe can lead to a big loss.��


    ��But Mr. Heath hasn��t appeared on any ranking list����


    ��He did, and he is in first ce,�� Annan said with her eyes closed. ��You don��t think the first ce on the Art Ranking is my masterpiece, do you?��


    ��But it could also be influenced by the arrangements made by Miss you����


    ��If it were the effect of those arrangements, then why haven��t Igor and the others made it to the top?�� Annan said. ��Since the Gospel has chosen Ashe, it means there must be some exceptional qualities in Ashe that we are unaware of. We might get a surprise from him when we check the news tomorrow morning.��


    ��You should go rest, I��m about to enter the Virtual Realm.��


    Banjeet nodded, carefully closed the door without making a sound. Annany in bed for a moment, but she did not summon a spirit to open the Gate of Truth; instead, she called up the Gospel.


    ��Let��s confirm the n one more time���� Miss murmured softly, touching the Gospel lightly, and her ount��s remaining points began depleting at a startling rate.


    At the same time, her eyes were covered with a spider web eye mask.


    This was the greatest secret of the Dn Family, a treasure that the Senhaeser Family had long coveted but never obtained.


    It was also Annan��s ace up her sleeve for daring to Desecrate the Divine Master!


    ��ount: Danzel Dn��


    ��Password: Danzel Miller Clement Joseph�� Lex Annan��


    ��Verification sessful, wee back, Your Majesty the Empress.��


    ��By the burning name of Dn, break through the of the Gospel!�� Annan��s voice became distant and cold, as if she was speaking through someone else��s voice: ��Let me see further into the future.��

 Chapter 308: Life and Death Together

    Because the first four paintings all depict different versions of Deya, they are tentatively referred to based on their visual characteristics as: Basement Girl, Masked Girl, Princess, and ck and White Girl.


    The correct figure chosen by Danzel was indeed the Masked Girl, who inspired her to use the ��Girl of Peeping�� ability.


    Everyone looked towards the Phantom of the Empress, waiting for her to announce the results and to confirm whether the Girl of Peeping��s ability was effective.


    However, she sat in a red leather armchair,zily stretching, her robe stretched tight, the buttons at the front enduring more stress than they should.


    ��Hmm?��


    She propped her chin and smiled, ��Why are you all looking at me? The other two haven��t chosen yet. I will announce the results only after everyone has made their selections. Otherwise, wouldn��t I be helping you narrow down the choices?��


    ��Is it really that strict���� Ashemented, turning his head towards Danzel: ��paramour, can you make sister (Deya) and Lover (Sonya) also be Girls of Peeping? Or can you see their answers?��


    ��Why should I help them?�� Danzel retorted. ��I only promised not to harm them, but I have no obligation to assist them��including you, I won��t help you.��


    ��But if we get it wrong, we��ll lose the treasure����


    Danzel said, ��And then?��


    Ashe continued, ��If we lose the treasure, we will be very sad, and we will also be weaker!��


    Danzel smiled, as if hearing good news.


    ��If you are sad, I willfort my loved one; if you are weaker, that is even better��for the weaker my loved one is, the easier it is for me to control.��


    Ashe was stunned, Danzel��s logic was too selfish and impable, and he could not find a convincing argument. Danzel could openly express her dark thoughts, indicating that one could not impose moral constraints on someone with such a resolute will.


    Without a doubt, they could not expect to use Danzel��s power; they had to rely on their own reasoning to find the correct answer.


    However, they could at least eliminate one option now. It seemed highly unlikely that all three would choose the same answer, so now they were left with three Deyas and one Ashe.


    Upon closer inspection, they believed that the ck and White Girl was most likely Deya herself. The simrity in attire, hair color, and expression between the ck and White Girl and Deya were striking. Following Ashe��s mention of am��s Razor, they dismissed the possibility that this could be Deya��s twin sister.


    This reduced Deya��s options from four to three��she couldn��t possibly choose herself to apany her in death; one can��t die twice.


    Then, unable to glean more information about the characters, they decided to focus on the question itself.


    ��paramour,�� Ashe looked at Danzel, ��what rtionship do you think you would have with someone you��d want to die with?��


    Although Danzel had said she wouldn��t help them, she didn��t refuse to engage in casual conversation: ��There are three scenarios.��


    ��First, my loved one; second, my loved one��s enemy; third, if I had no loved one, then I would choose my most hated enemy.��


    Indeed, since the question wasn��t about love or hatred but about ��the person you would die with,�� Danzel couldn��t determine whether the choice of the girl in her web was her loved one or not. Ashe still might be her true love.


    ��Actually, there are only two kinds: the one you love most, and the one you hate most,�� Ashe said. ��Even though the differences between people are greater than between a person and a dog, we can choose based on this logic��either the most beloved or the most hated.��


    ��Wait,�� Sonya interjected. ��I already know the correct answer to ��who I love the most�� from the first question, which is myself; and although I got the second question ��who I hate the most�� wrong, it proved I don��t hate my sister (Deya), and none of the three most hated options included you, meaning you can��t be the person I hate.��


    ��Yet all five options here are you and my sister. How should I choose?��


    ��It��s simple,�� Ashe said. ��Even though you love yourself the most, you can choose the second and third person you love most.��


    ��Then�� I guess I can only choose you,�� Sonya said. ��After all, I��m your lover now, and as I��ve said, given my personality, I have little resistance to the idea of dying together with a lover.��


    ��You could at least show a little resistance,�� Ashe sighed. ��It��s so odd. Why would my paramour want to kill everyone around me to have me all to herself, while my lover wants to die with me?��


    ��I can only sincerely hope you didn��t guess correctly, and even more so that the reward won��t make your choicee true.��


    Sonya snorted coldly: ��You��d better pray your guess is wrong��if I really am your lover, and she really is your paramour, then what��s meant to happen, will happen.��


    Ashe changed the subject: ��Sister, have you made your choice?��


    Deya shook her head: ��We��re clueless; how about I also choose you?��


    ��I think that��s unlikely, considering we��re probably not blood rtives. You surely wouldn��t want to die with a rtive like me, right?�� Ashe said. ��Besides, my poor heart can��t take the emotional strain of being considered a burialpanion by two people.��


    ��Eliminate me, yourself, and the Masked Girl chosen by the paramour (Danzel), that leaves only two people you don��t know: the Basement Girl and the Princess. They look almost exactly like you but differ in age; they might be rtives, perhaps a sister or mother.��


    ��Now there��s no extra information avable, and since this tiny cabin has already seen two individuals who want to die with their loved ones, statistically, you��re likely a normal person who would want to die with someone you hate.��


    ording to the social Rules of ��birds of a feather flock together,�� with two abnormal individuals among the four, the other two should be somewhat normal, right?


    Sonya silently criticized this reasoning but kept it to herself since it implied she was not normal.


    ��Who do you think you would hate? The somewhat solitary Basement Girl, or the stern and proud Princess?��


    Deya pondered for a moment, biting Ashe��s finger in frustration, and shook her head: ��I can��t figure it out.��


    ��Just pick one at random then,�� Ashe said. ��Based on your preferences, choose the one you like less. Even if it��s wrong, narrowing it down from five to a choice between two isn��t bad.��


    Deya nodded, taking a serious look at the two paintings.


    She couldn��t really decide which she liked more, but the girl living in the basement seemed more pitiable, evoking a sense of empathy in Deya. Thus, she pointed at the painting of the Princess and said, ��I choose her.��


    ��It��s wonderful that you three have achieved something unprecedented,�� the Witch said as she twirled around. ��Since the cabin was built, you are the first to aplish this feat! Congrattions!��


    As the Witch��s congrattions echoed, fireworks suddenly burst from the corners of the cabin, and colorful confetti flew through the air.


    ��Before announcing the answer, I must tell you what��s at stake in this question,�� the Witch cheerfully said. ��The other me, the treasure you wagered on this question is�� the Mask spirit! Although you��ve forgotten it, trust me, it��s very important to you.��


    The Swordswoman and Sonya were told, ��Your bet is on the Water Faction.��


    The Empress looked towards Danzel and softly uttered a term: ��Secret.��


    Everyone looked curiously at the Empress, who simply shrugged. ��The name of her treasure is ��Secret,�� or another name����Secret Incarnation.����


    ��Mask spirit?�� Ashe asked curiously.


    ��Not exactly,�� the Empress responded. ��But it��s her most precious treasure.��


    The bets were confirmed, and no changes could be made.


    The cabin fell into a moment of silence, then the Witch sighed, ��Unfortunately����


    ��You all got it right!��


    Three beams of light fell upon them, returning their lost treasures. Deya excitedly activated the Mask spirit, and then, to her delight, she found her hair color rapidly losing its other shades, leaving only a pure, bright ck.


    ��That��s great, their voices aren��t so grating anymore!��


    Ashe was also happy for her. ��So, can you let go of my hand now?��


    ��No, keep it for now,�� Deya clung to her emergency food supply. ��What if my head starts hurting again?��


    Sonya showed no change, but when Danzel obtained the ��Secret Incarnation,�� her ��Girl of Peeping�� form started to transform��specifically, the spiderweb eyepatch covering her eyes turned into an alloy ring decoration, and the white silk woven from spider threads all turned to ck silk.


    ��As I mentioned earlier, because you three answered simultaneously, your rewards also changed ordingly,�� the Witch exined. ��First of all, the other me, congrattions on achieving your desire��you��ve received the ��Life Link�� blessing.��


    ��When you die, the person you just chose will die instead of you����


    Deya was stunned. Was this blessing as powerful as having an extra life?


    ����That��s impossible,�� the Witchughed. ��After all, that person isn��t here, and the power of the cabin can��t affect people outside.��


    ��So, your ��Life Link�� partner will be a random person inside this cabin.��


    Everyone was taken aback. A random person?


    If Deya took a fatal hit, would one of them randomly have to die for her?


    Before they could even process this dire news, Ashe suddenly realized something and looked nervously at Sonya.


    Sonya was also looking at him, the corners of her mouth curving into a mischievous smile, as if anticipating something.


    The Swordswoman looked at Sonya: ��Your reward is simr. When your soul is weakened and nearing death, the person you chose will share their soul with you, using their soul to replenish yours.��


    Ashe was dumbfounded. Great, he was someone else��s emergency kit now?


    However, the Swordswoman continued, ��Simrly, if the person you chose is close to death, your soul will also be shared with them. This can only be triggered once.��


    ��This is the ��Life Link�� blessing.��


    Ashe sighed in relief: ��That��s a relief, we are each other��s guardian angels! Lover, even for my sake, you must keep living well!��


    ��For you, I��ll make sure to trigger this blessing as soon as possible, to prevent you from triggering it first,�� Sonya said earnestly, but the twinkle in her eyes fully betrayed her amusement.


    Next up was Danzel��s reward. As everyone watched him nervously, the Empress smiled and said, ��I would love to offer a Life Link reward, butpared to your treasure, those blessings are of lesser value.��


    She tossed a golden orb of light towards him: ��This is your reward, 10,000 Soul Power����


    ��Wait a moment.��


    The Observer, who had been silently watching until now, suddenly raised his hand, causing the golden orb issued by the Empress to freeze mid-air.


    Facing everyone��s gaze, the Observer spoke leisurely, ��Doesn��t this seem a bit unfair?��


    Everyone looked confused��although they had lost their memories, they felt that talking about ��fairness�� here was as absurd as asking a virgin for love advice.


    ��While ��Secret Incarnation�� might indeed be worth 10,000 Soul Power, ��Girl of Peeping��s�� armament cost is only 15 Soul Power, and she could endlessly exploit this ability to plunder rewards from us,�� the Observer chuckled. ��Seems like there��s a little problem here, doesn��t it? A loophole in the rules!��


    The Empress looked at the suspended orb of light, as if seeing something iprehensible: ��So, are you suggesting�� this question doesn��t count?��


    ��No, the question is over, the cabin isn��t that petty,�� the Observer pointed a finger, and the orb of light fell into Danzel��s body: ��But we do need to adjust the rules.��


    ��First, the treasure from thest question will continue to be wagered in the next question.��


    A sh of gold emerged from inside Danzel, and his ��Girl of Peeping�� instantly reverted from its ck silk form back to white silk.


    ��Second, the cabin will now prohibit the power she just used.��


    A mist of vapor appeared, and Danzel was immediately stripped of his ��Girl of Peeping�� form, his clothing reverting instantly to the Spiderweb Cloak he wore when he first entered.


    The real bodies had little reaction, only secretly admiring that the cabin was not easy to deceive, and that any loophole was promptly rectified.


    The only one truly shocked in the room was the Empress Phantom��being an examiner phantom generated by the cabin, she had partial cabin permissions, and knew that although the cabin indeed had a loophole repair function, it was a lengthy process that took years, and it wasn��t supposed to be fixed by a phantom!


    Moreover, what the Observer Phantom did wasn��t a repair at all!


    He had just altered the rules of the cabin on the fly!

 Chapter 309: Danzel

    Chapter 309: Danzel


    At this point, Sonya��s Q&A session had concluded, yielding a Life Link blessing and Gold Tier status in the Time Faction, but at the cost of the Mind Faction.


    Deya answered a question and received the Death Link Blessing;


    Danzel answered a question, gaining 10,000 Soul Power.


    Ashe didn��t answer any questions, but became Sonya��s Life Link health pack, as well as a random lucky audience candidate during Deya��s Death Link.


    The Observer seemed to only appear to set the rules; once done, he quietly watched the proceedings. The Swordswoman also stepped back, leaving the stage to the Empress and the Witch.


    ��So���� the Empress began to speak, standing up, but was promptly pushed back down by the Witch.


    The Witch sat on the Empress��sp, lying in her arms like a little girl: ��Let��s start with the Witch��s turn��You don��t mind, do you?��


    Seeing a Phantom of the Witch that looked exactly like Deya so close, the Empress was momentarily stupefied, her pupils swirling with the tide of memories.


    ����Of course, I wouldn��t mind. How could I refuse your request?����Thanks.�� The Witch waved at Deya: ��The second question is very simple, I believe my other self will definitely answer it easily��Who was the subject of your first question?��


    ��I��ll give you three options: your sister, your grandmother, your grandfather.��


    ��The treasure tied to this question is your most cherished spirit ��Listening the Day,�� a spirit you obtained with great difficulty and even hesitate to use. Please consider your choice carefully.��


    Everyone was silent for a moment, until Ashe spoke: ��Um�� could you repeat the options for that question?��


    The Witch winked at Ashe: ��Sister, grandmother, and grandfather.��


    Sonya muttered under her breath.


    ��Why would there be a grandfather?�� Deya asked in shock. ��Wasn��t a woman sitting on the throne in the painting?��


    ��I almost blurted it out without thinking,�� Sonya sighed.


    The Witch shook her head with a smile, her gesture clearly not a denial but a refusal to discuss the content of the question.


    ��As a principle in quizzes like this, if a bizarre option suddenly appears, it��s highly likely to be the correct answer,�� Ashe said. ��Besides, since Danzel and I could transform, isn��t it possible that Deya��s grandfather could turn into a woman? After all, bing a woman is a desire many men can��t fulfill.��


    Everyone stared at Ashe in disbelief, including Danzel.


    ��Do you not wonder what it feels like to be the opposite gender?�� Ashe continued. ��Of course, I��m not talking about a permanent change but a temporary experience. Curiosity about the opposite sex is a natural instinct that leads to courtship and love. What��s so surprising about that?��


    While Ashe made some logical points, they were irrelevant to the question at hand; they merely established the possibility of the ��grandfather�� option. After a brief discussion, Deya and the voice in her head agreed, ��I think she is my sister.��


    The Princess in the painting looked too young to be an elderly grandmother, and while it was possible the painting depicted the grandmother in her youth, the Knight mentioned something about am��s Razor��avoiding baseless spection.


    ��Are you sure?��


    ��Sure.��


    ��No changes?��


    ��No changes.��


    ��Really no changes?��


    ��Really no changes.��


    ��Really, really����


    Seeing Deya��s impatient expression, the Witch finally nodded in satisfaction, ��Alright, alright, I��ll stop teasing you��congrattions����


    Suddenly, fireworks crackled around the cabin as Deya watched in surprise, turning to joy under the shower of sparks. The Witch smiled and said, ��You got it wrong.��


    ��What?��


    A spirit appeared in the Witch��s hand, and with a sudden squeeze, it burst into countless sparkles and vanished.


    ��As a penalty for the wrong answer, you��ve lost your most beloved spirit, Listening the Day.��


    Although Deya got the answer wrong, she wasn��t too regretful��there was no way to reason out the correct answer; it was purely a game of luck. She had been mentally prepared for this oue.


    However, this revtion made things strange since it implied that the Princess was not her sister but her grandmother (or grandfather) and was also the person she wished to die alongside.


    Why would one want to die with their own grandmother?


    Moreover, the resemnce between the grandmother and herself seemed to surpass mere gic simrity. Wasn��t there supposed to be a generational difference that included their mother? How could there be no change at all?


    When the voice in Deya��s mind realized these peculiarities, it unexpectedly did not start to argue but became eerily quiet, which frightened Deya a bit.


    ��Then, onto the final third question,�� the Witchforted. ��It will be over soon, and thest question is very simple. Please rx and answer.��


    ��The question is still rted to this painting.�� Her fingertips lightly brushed over the Princess��s portrait, her ink-stained nails almost scraping the face in the painting: ��What does this person in the painting want to do to you?��


    ��The first option,�� the Witch smiled, ��she wants to use you as a Sacrifice to achieve an unspeakable goal.��


    ��The second option,�� the Witch sighed, ��she wants you to inherit her title to continue her legacy for generations.��


    ��The third option,�� the Witch expressionless, ��she wants you to be a deity among mortals.��


    With all three options being beyond ordinary, silence fell over the cabin, and even Ashe calmed down, remaining silent.


    Deya waited a long time without any external clues, then turned to look at Ashe, biting his wrist and giving him a pitiful, pleading look.


    ��Do you really want me to analyze this?�� Ashe asked in return.


    Deya paused, then her expression suddenly changed as if she heard something, growing increasingly sad, almost to the point of crying: ��They say, the second question indicates this person should be my grandmother, but the first question proves I wanted to die with my grandmother, which means she must be evil.��


    ��The answer to this question should be the first option�� It fits that my grandmother wants to use me as a Sacrifice, which is why I despise her.��


    Sonya sighed softly in her heart, taking Deya��s hand as if to share her sadness. Though memoryless, knowing that a loved one plotted against her, and that she herself wished to drag that loved one to hell with her�� perhaps it was precisely theck of memories that made this truth even more painful.


    It meant that the lonely amnesiac truly had no family to rely on.


    At that moment, Danzel was watching the Witch and suddenly leaned over to whisper to Ashe, ��I��ve discovered some very important information.��


    ��What information?��


    Danzel didn��t immediately answer, instead asking, ��If I tell you, can you forgive me and continue to work with me?��


    Ashe was momentarily confused, then quickly realized, ��You��re suggesting that since you��ve lost the advantage provided by the Girl of Peeping, you want to rely on our analytical skills to help with answering? Was your arrogance earlier due to the confidence the Girl of Peeping gave you?��


    Danzel��s expression remained unchanged, ��Holding different cards means ying them with different strategies.��


    You ignored us earlier, and now you��re the one who can��t reach us~


    Though Ashe was tempted to tease her and then agree, he nced at Sonya and Deya and shook his head��while he personally had no preference, he clearly saw during this brief period of amnesia that Sonya was a person driven significantly by hatred and loathing.


    Danzel had dared to attack them earlier, and Sonya had undoubtedly already built a metaphorical grave for her in her heart, just waiting for the moment to bury Danzel. If it weren��t for his mediation, Sonya would have already started a fight with Danzel.


    Being strangers now was already the best oue. If Ashe dared suggest mending their rtionship, he would definitely be caught between a rock and a hard ce.


    However, Ashe��s refusal was interpreted differently by Danzel. After a moment��s thought, she walked behind Ashe, hugged his head against her chest, and rested her chin on top of his head, speaking in a t, unemotional tone, ��Can you forgive me?��


    Fanm.


    ��Phew����


    Annan dispelled the Gospel, and the spiderweb eyepatch vanished along with it. Rubbing her eyes, she walked over to the window to overlook the city, shrouded in a hazy white mist.


    Despite the rapid development around her, the Dn lineage still rested on theurels of their ancestors, barely surviving on the glory of the first Empress. It was as if the Empress had already aplished their destined tasks, and they were merely born to enjoy the benefits.


    But this could not continue. The history of Dn was bound to take a turn in her generation��it would either decline further, bing mere fodder for Senhaeser, or��


    She would restore the glory of Dn and follow in the grand achievements of Empress Danzel!


    Annan��s resolve was unwavering; from a young age, she had learned about the origins of the Dn lineage and held a deep admiration for the first Empress who unified the Gospel Kingdom. Unfortunately, with multiple changes in the dynasty, the deeds of the Empress had beenpletely submerged by time, leaving Annan with nothing but a name to remember her by.


    However, Empress Danzel, who managed to unify the Gospel amidst chaos, must have been a stern, dignified, unapproachable, ruthless, and unyielding iron-willed sovereign!

 Chapter 310: Incarnation of the Gospel of the Omniscient Weaver

    Chapter 310: Incarnation of the Gospel of the Omniscient Weaver


    Ashe felt a soft pressure at the back of his head and couldn��t help but sneer internally.


    Huh!


    What do they take me for?


    Though indeed the pillow wasfortable, was he really someone to be manipted so easily by a paramour?


    With such rational thoughts swirling in his mind, Ashe felt his dignity climbing higher. However, he suddenly noticed Sonya and Deya calmly observing him, their gazes as unflinching as if they were looking at a Corpse.


    ��Why are you looking at me like that?��


    ��After all, she��s been holding you for nearly thirty seconds. You only noticed us now; we can only look at you this way.��


    ��What, thirty seconds already? Wasn��t it just three seconds? This must be a Miracle! paramour, did you secretly cast a Miracle on me!? I misjudged you!��


    After a second of thought, Danzel confirmed that Ashe must be unable to resist her allure. Having secured her man, she turned to Deya and said, ��I have discovered some information that might influence your answer. As repayment for this information, I hope you will not pursue what I have just done and assist me in responding��at least do not interfere.��Sonya scoffed but said nothing, merely watching Deya.


    Deya blinked decisively and agreed, ��Alright.��


    Danzel was straightforward: ��Ever since my Lover (Sonya) confirmed the correct answer through eye contact in the first question, I have been very observant of the eye characteristics in the painting. Then I noticed��the Witch��s eyes, identical to the woman in the painting.��


    Eyes?


    Deya sharply turned to the Witch, who boldly met her gaze, her face still featuring that eternally unchanging smile. However, at this moment, her smile resembled the sight of a cockroach at the bottom of a bowl, every hair on end.


    Deya then looked down at the painting. The Princess therein naturally bore no smile. Her gold and white robe was immacte, every hair in ce, even her eyshes perfectly aligned. The Princess seemed like a perfect female figure that could only exist within a painting, every shade of color dering nobility, utterly unlike the jovial Witch.


    Yet, in her pupils, there flowed the same arrogance as the Witch��s�� an arrogance as if regarding all things in the world as mere puppets on strings.


    Perception was being re-Weaved, and rationality was being reconstructed.


    When Deya snapped back to reality, she found herself in a strange ce, with everyone else gone.


    She was in a room atop the Tower, the night sky lulling the city to sleep outside the window. Dressed in a silk robe, Deyay in bed, seemingly about to sleep��or perhaps just waking up.


    As she walked barefoot on the marble floor, the chill that crept up through her feet felt so real that she started to doubt whether the cabin Adventure was merely a dream.


    Voices and footsteps echoed from beyond the door, sparking an inexplicable urge in Deya. She tiptoed to the door, pressing her ear against the room��s only door made of superalloy, to eavesdrop on the conversation in the hallway:


    A middle-aged woman��s voice: ����she goes to sleep promptly at midnight, and then every hour, ��Ode to Joy�� is yed for the Armoring Ritual, without fail.��


    A melodious yet detached female voice: ��Three.��


    The middle-aged woman began to sound slightly anxious: ��Yes�� during the 16th Armoring Ritual, the Princess suddenly turned over in her bed, which was the biggest incident this month.��


    Detached voice: ��Two.��


    Middle-aged woman: ��On the 23rd, the Princess expressed a desire for Red Velvet Cake, so I had the kitchen prepare one�� I��m sorry, it��s all my fault.��


    Detached voice: ��One.��


    After a brief silence, the middle-aged woman suddenly sobbed, ��I��m so sorry! I, I just don��t understand why we need to confine the Princess like this, why we have to����


    ��So I secretly sought out the Gospel to ask what the Armoring Ritual was, I��m sorry, I thought Your Majesty wanted to����


    ��After all, rumors in the pce say that Your Majesty can remain forever young because����


    ��I really like the Princess, I just didn��t want�� But now I fully understand Your Majesty��s good intentions, Ipletely understand. The Princess will surely appreciate your nurturing, inheriting the glory of Yisuo at the Weaving Festival, and achieving Armoring Sanctification once again����


    All voices abruptly stopped.


    The world became so quiet that only Deya��s own heartbeat remained audible.


    Deya didn��t know why, but she was growing increasingly anxious, every hair on her body seeming to tremble.


    Tap.


    Suddenly, footsteps echoed from outside the door.


    The number of footsteps.


    Just one person.


    ��Hey.��


    The Witch��s voice pulled her from the Tower back to the cabin: ��What��s your answer?��


    Deya��s mind exploded with voices, realizing that the voices inside her head at the Tower had always been quiet, not because they were behaving, but because they had been blocked by some force until now.


    The strong emotional turmoil from her sisters finally breached Deya��s rational defenses. She didn��t even have the strength to bite Ashe, only managing to muster herst bit of energy to say, ��It��s the third option����


    With that, she fainted directly into Sonya��s arms.


    ��Don��t worry,�� the Witch restrained Ashe and the others from their rough attempts to awaken her. ��For her, this is a normal mental fluctuation; she just needs some rest. If you��re really concerned, just throw her out of the cabin, and she��ll return to normal once she retrieves her memories.��


    ��The treasure linked to this question is�� never mind, you��ve already passed out.��


    The Witch seemed somewhat dispirited as well, flicking two beams of light towards Deya, then going to sit next to the Swordswoman. However, the Swordswoman seemed to dislike her, moving a seat away, and the Witch closely followed.


    As the two Phantoms tangled, the Empress picked up a sketchbook from the table: ��Now for your second question����


    ��And his first.��


    Unnoticed until now, the Observer had moved his favorite chair next to the dining table.


    The Empress looked at him in surprise: ��You want to co-create a question with me?��


    ��Is there a problem?�� the Observer retorted, ��Your question happens to be the same as mine����


    Impossible!


    Ashe and Danzel had never seen each other before entering the cabin; how could they possibly have the same question?


    Countless words choked in her throat, yet the Empress could only nod expressionlessly. As a Phantom, she still had to abide by the mechanisms of a Phantom, not revealing any information about the answers to the questions.


    ��The question is simple.��


    The Observer opened the sketchbook, disying an image of the Masked Girl whom Danzel wanted to ��live and die�� with: ��You just have to guess who this girl is.��


    ��First, the Preaching Saint who redeems the people.��


    ��Second, the secret advisor to the first ruler.��


    ��Third,�� the Observer nced at Ashe and Danzel: ��the Incarnation of the Gospel of the Omniscient Weaver.��

 Chapter 311: Mission Accomplished

    Chapter 311: Mission Aplished


    In the cabin, Sonya ced Deya on the lounge chair and joined in to observe the issue between Ashe and Danzel.


    ��Do I know her too?�� Ashe asked, pointing to the Masked Girl in the painting, his expression filled with confusion.


    Ashe hadn��t expected that his question would be the same as Danzel��s, and that the image he chose was also from Danzel��s first question.


    This question was clearly tailored for Danzel, but could he answer it as well?


    The Observer didn��t speak, only gestured towards Deya with a nod of his head.


    Seeing Deya��s appearance, Ashe was suddenly at a loss for words��Deya looked exactly like the Masked Girl, and he truly couldn��t im he had never seen the Masked Girl.


    ��Speaking of which, in that previous question, there appeared four individuals who looked exactly like my sister (Deya),�� Sonya analyzed. ��Among them, the ck and White Girl is my sister herself, and the Princess is my sister��s grandmother. Following this logic, the Basement Girl and the Masked Girl should also be rtives of my sister.��


    ��The possible identities of the Masked Girl include the Preaching Saint, secret advisor, or the Incarnation of the Gospel�� Speaking of which, my sister��s grandmother also wanted her to be a deity among humans����


    Sonya suddenly faltered, recalling the skinny little girl from the painting who was so poor she could only afford to study; her lips naturally pouted, almost as if she could hang a teapot on them: ��Such a distinguished background indeed.����There��s no need for jealousy,�� Asheforted. ��Although her family background is distinguished, you still have me!��


    Sonya stared nkly at Ashe as he shed a bright, toothy smile.


    Then, as if her spine had been removed, Sonya slumped into the soft chair, her gaze lifelessly fixed on the cabin ceiling, her face etched with sorrow: ��I can hardly imagine the tragic life I��ll face once I regain my memories����


    ��Hey, at least trust the judgment of your pre-amnesiac self!��


    Danzel, observing Ashe and Sonya, suddenly remarked, ��Aside from everything else, you two are surely true lovers.��


    Ashe and Sonya were taken aback. Although their time together had been brief, they both felt that Danzel was a thoughtful speaker who wouldn��t speak without being certain, a stark contrast to Ashe, whose imagination could run wild at the sight of a bare arm.


    ��Why?�� Ashe asked.


    ��After losing your memories, you two can still engage in high-density conversations with no substantial information,�� Danzel exined. ��This shows that your personalities have been tempered by time, allowing you to form aplete,forting presence for each other under any circumstances.��


    Although they received Danzel��s affirmation, Ashe and Sonya merely responded with an ��Oh,�� feeling indifferent inside. Not just Ashe, but even Sonya had grown ustomed to being called ��Lover,�� a term that no longer made her blush as a young girl might.


    More importantly, they understood the subtext of Danzel��s words��stop the chitchat and answer the question.


    ��I think the second option, the first Emperor��s secret advisor, is most likely,�� Sonya said.


    Ashe nodded in agreement. ��I think so too.��


    Danzel wasn��t surprised. ��Is it because she took ��Empress�� as her codename?��


    Undoubtedly, the biggest source of information in the cabin was the Phantoms, who possessed all their memories, and the codenames they chose for themselves were a crucial basis for deduction.


    For instance, ��Swordswoman�� suggested that Sonya was most skilled in swordsmanship; ��Witch�� implied that Deya was probably quite mischievous; ��Observer�� meant Ashe�� enjoyed watching the action?


    And the codename with the most information was undoubtedly ��Empress,�� indicating that in reality, Danzel was likely a ruler who wielded immense power, possibly even resting her head on Ashe��s knee.


    And the second option, ��the first Emperor��s secret advisor,�� was directly rted to royalty.


    Without any additional information, this option seemed the most probable.


    ��Wait a minute.�� Sonya suddenly noticed a loophole in Ashe��s reasoning. ��The roles of ruler and paramour aren��tpatible, are they?��


    ��Who says!�� Ashe responded vehemently. ��An Empress as a lover would only excite me more!��


    Sonya retorted angrily, ��Even if you��re willing, she might not be!��


    ��I am willing,�� Danzel interjected surprisingly. ��Worldly status won��t hinder my pursuit of love, but����


    Danzel looked at Ashe and Sonya. ��If I were indeed an Empress wielding secr power, I would lock up my beloved, eradicate all his connections, forbid anyone from approaching him, and never let him leave my side. I would be his only one.��


    Ashe shuddered at the thought, a newfound respect for his pre-amnesia self emerging��How did you even manage to attract such a woman? Could it have been her chasing after you?


    No way, if she really is my paramour, I need to n carefully for when we leave the cabin, at least unite with Lover��


    Turning his head, Ashe��s forehead wrinkled deeply: ��Why are you standing so far away?��


    Unbeknownst to her, Sonya had retreated to where Deyay unconscious, speaking earnestly, ��I need to take care of her now, it��s not convenient to be near you. Plus, you��ve got an Empress as a paramour, I think it��s better we stay apart for now.��


    ��Cowardly!�� Ashe eximed in anguish. ��Isn��t true love about sharing our lives and fate, through thick and thin, in wealth or poverty, in health or sickness, in joy and sorrow, always staying together, never abandoning each other? Lover, you��re betraying our love!��


    Sonya trembled, murmuring, ��True love����


    ��Yes, Lover should support each other, never to part����


    ��If one runs away in the face of danger, can they still be called Lover?��


    Ashe felt moved. ��I��m d you understand����


    ��So, let��s break up,�� Sonya sighed. ��This way, we��re no longer Lover, and I can abandon you with a clear conscience. Ah, such a brief love affair, I will miss you, noble Knight whose name I still do not know.��


    Ashe was left speechless by anger, but it didn��t matter, as he was soon enveloped in a warm embrace, a delicate arm around his neck, his head resting once again in that intoxicating tenderness��


    ��Can we answer the question now?��


    Danzel��s steady voice instantly made Ashe focus: ��Hmm, I really hate it when people start chit-chatting in the middle of serious business. Let��s wrap up this cabin journey.��


    ��Option one is definitely out; we haven��t gathered any intelligence rted to ��Preaching Saint.�� In the case of amnesia, choosing an option without any information is akin to gambling.��


    ��Option three is the same, but����


    Danzel: ��But?��


    Ashe pondered: ��In these questions, we��ve seen four individuals who look exactly like Deya, but ording to the answers, they are all different people.��


    ��Could we assume,�� Ashe adjusted his head to fully nestle into the Empress��s bosom, ��that only one of them is real, and the other three are�� impersonators?��


    Sonya listened, puzzled: ��What do you mean?��


    ��I don��t really know myself, but it��s impossible to have four identical individuals without it being intentional,�� Ashe exined. ��So one must be the original, and the others deliberately made themselves look simr to be the ��original.����


    ��And do you remember the answer to Deya��s third question? Her grandmother wanted her to be a divine being on earth�� If we connect this to our current question����


    Danzel caught on: ��The Masked Girl, is she the original earthly deity?��


    ��Not necessarily,�� Ashe said. ��But she definitely possesses some power, such that others would want their descendants to mimic her appearance to inherit her authority.��


    ��And among these options, the identity most likely to carry unknown powers is����


    Ashe and Danzel both looked at option three: the Incarnation of the Gospel of the Omniscient Weaver.


    Even without their memories, they could sense the Riddler-level grandeur of power in that term.


    ��But this is just my spection, full of maybes and no solid facts,�� Ashe remarked. ��The most likely possibility is still option two.��


    Danzel asked, ��So what��s your choice?��


    ��I choose three.��


    ��Then I choose three, too.��


    ��Does this mean we have a paramour-level understanding?�� Ashe asked.


    Danzel did not answer the question but said, ��Do you know what kind of people I like the most? Those who are thoughtful, calm, and well-learned.��


    ��Intelligence is the quality that most captivates me; I can��t resist a clever person.��


    ��It was only just now that I sensed the fragrance of wisdom I adore so much emanating from you.�� Danzel leaned in close to Ashe��s face, taking a deep breath, ��If you could always emit that scent, even though I��ve lost my memory, I would be mesmerized by you all over again.��


    Ashe dared not move and slightly turned his head to look at Sonya behind him.


    Ashe blinked: ��I get it, I��ll y dumbter to dodge this bullet!��


    Sonya blinked back: ��I think you don��t even need to pretend.��


    ��Right, right, before you answer, you should know the treasure tied to this question,�� the Observer interjected. ��For the beauty, it��s still the ��Secret Incarnation,�� and for the Knight, your treasure is this����


    In the Observer��s hand appeared a cluster of starlight: ��The ��Incarnation of the Stars.�� This is the most precious thing about you.��


    At the sight of the ��Incarnation of the Stars,�� Danzel��s eyes widened.


    Even though her memory was lost, the sense of mission ingrained deep in her soul made her instantly realize her task��she had to obtain this object!


    ��If I answer correctly, can I choose to receive the ��Incarnation of the Stars�� as my reward?�� she immediately asked.


    Just as the Empress was about to speak, the Observer spoke first: ��Of course you can.��


    The Empress stared at the profile of the Observer, understanding now that there was a problem with the cabin.


    Why was the reward 10,000 Soul Power when Danzel answered correctly earlier, instead of another Conceptual Incarnation? Because Conceptual Incarnations are unique, and such a reward could not possibly be offered by the cabin!


    In this world, there are no identical Conceptual Incarnations; every concept is unique!


    If Danzel answered correctly, the cabin could not possibly grant an ��Incarnation of the Stars,�� unless��


    ��Have you both confirmed your answers?�� the Observer reminded, ��Theoretically, you cannot choose the same answer for the same question. If you do, you might face a certain penalty.��


    No, there was no such rule.


    The cabin had never encountered two guests at the same time since its establishment, so there had never been an opportunity to establish rules for a two-yer game.


    However, the Empress could say nothing because as soon as the Observer spoke, the cabin indeed implemented this new rule.


    After confirming that both Ashe and Danzel were set on their answers without changes, the Observer cheerfully dered, ��Well, congrattions, you both have chosen the correct answer.��


    Before they could breathe a sigh of relief, the Observer continued, ��However, since you chose the same answer, the cabin suspects you of copying each other, and thus you must also face a penalty, though you will still receive a reward.��


    ��The penalty is that you lose the treasures you wagered.��


    ��The reward is that you will receive items of equivalent value to the treasures.��


    ��So����


    At that moment, the ��Incarnation of the Stars�� appeared in the palm of the Observer, while the ��Secret Incarnation�� emerged at the fingertips of the Empress. The two orbs of light switched ces, each rushing to their new masters.


    Ashe received the ��Secret Incarnation�� but lost the ��Incarnation of the Stars.��


    Danzel received the ��Incarnation of the Stars�� but lost the ��Secret Incarnation.��


    Ashe felt nothing special, as he was unaware of the value of these items.


    Danzel fell into contemtion, feeling a sense of mission fulfilled deep within her soul.


    So�� have Ipleted my mission?

 Chapter 312: The Reason for Rebirth

    Chapter 312: The Reason for Rebirth


    Despite feeling that something was amiss, Danzel, aware of his amnesia, knew it was futile to try and figure it out, so he put the matter aside for the time being.


    Even if there were any issues, the ��Secret Incarnation�� was only with Ashe, and Danzel felt quite reassured about that.


    After all, even though they might not be paramours, Danzel felt theirpatibility was good. They could still bepanions in adventures in the cabin, and it was possible for their rtionship to develop into that of paramours��of course, that was assuming Danzel didn��t have a beloved one after regaining his memory.


    If the ��Secret Incarnation�� was important to him, considering their rtionship, Danzel believed that Ashe would definitely be willing to give it up to him after paying a certain price.


    If Danzel had no lover or if he himself was Ashe��s paramour, they could even benefit from it directly without any exchange.


    After checking their loot, Ashe, Danzel, and Sonya all turned their attention to the Observer.


    Even the Empress Phantom was not an exception.


    ��What are you all looking at me for?�� the Observer chuckled. ��Isn��t it still your turn to pose a question, Empress?��


    ��Aren��t you nning to co-host with me?�� the Empress voiced everyone��s Inner Voice. ��I don��t want to be interrupted by your ��wait a minute�� just after saying a few words. I��m allergic to ��wait a minute�� now.����The Empress is really picky,�� the Observerughed. ��But don��t worry, the questions I have up next are different from yours; they are custom-designed for us men, unfortunately not something thedies can partake in.��


    ��A custom-design for men?�� Ashe��s eyes lit up. ��If that��s the case, then paramour, Lover, there��s no point in you staying here. Once paramour answers the questions, you should leave the cabin����


    ��No way!�� Sonya said decisively. ��I need to see just how sinful and vile your Inner Voice is, so that when I regain my memory, breaking up with you will truly be like seeing the light, a rebirth!��


    Ashe replied, ��And if the questions reveal that my Inner Voice is pure and loyal, kind and upright, embodying all the world��s virtues, would you then support me wholeheartedly?��


    Sonya thought for a moment, ��You can��t possibly be that kind of person, so we��re still breaking up.��


    Ashe asked, ��Why not possible? You��ve lost your memory, how can you still judge my nature?��


    ��But my nature hasn��t changed,�� Sonya said disdainfully. ��How could anyone who bes my Lover be a good person? Don��t you understand the principle of ��birds of a feather flock together��?��


    Sonya��s words were so convincing that Ashe began to doubt if he might actually have a criminal record.


    ��I also want to see your questions.��


    Danzel said, ��I promised to help you analyze and find the right answers, so I want to help you too.��


    However, Ashe keenly noticed something off about Danzel��s demeanor. ��You don��t usually exin yourself so deliberately when you speak. You��re lying. What��s your real purpose?��


    ��I want to know more about you,�� Danzel admitted unabashedly. ��I want to know all your secrets, your likes and dislikes, your shames, your nightmares. All this information will form the basis of my ns.��


    ��That��s great, are you nning the Entertainment for when we have our affair?��


    Danzel smiled and looked at the Empress. ��Then, let��s start with my third question.��


    Ashe��s eyelids twitched. ��It��s just for nning Entertainment, right?��


    ��The third question is still rted to this painting,�� the Empress pointed to the picture of the Masked Girl in the album. ��The question is simple: what have you done to this person before.��


    ��First, you have served her. You were her Follower in spirit, her Monk in conduct, and her Servant in function.��


    ��Second, you have possessed her. You were her Lover in spirit, her Knight in action, and her Emperor in function.��


    ��Third,�� the Empress held up three fingers, ��you have desecrated her.��


    ��Her Followers were ughtered by you, her glory twisted and corrupted.��


    ��You misinterpreted her Gospel, destroyed her Discipline, until no one in the world could hear her Gospel anymore.��


    ��You became her only Follower, she became a deity belonging only to you.��


    After the Empress finished listing the three options, the cabin fell into a prolonged silence.


    Sonya earnestly watched over Deya, her gaze never straying as if Deya might suddenly wake up and try to strangle her; Ashe, practicing mindfulness, suddenly grasped the essence of ��emptiness�� in all things, trying in his imagination to escape the confines of the cabin.


    ��Knight,�� Danzel said, ��I��m sorry.��


    ��Ha, what?�� Ashe��s voice trembled uncontrobly, fearing he might be desecrated next.


    ��It seems I��m not your paramour,�� Danzel chuckled, eyes fixed on the Masked Girl in the painting. ��What a pity, I was really looking forward to our chemistry in bed.��


    ��I choose the third option. You don��t need to tell me the stakes of this question; I am sure it��s the right one.��


    Without any discussion or additional information, Danzel decisively gave his answer.


    Not just Danzel, but also Ashe and Sonya, believed that this was the only possible answer.


    In this cabin, no one��s character was more ��pure�� than Danzel��s��not in terms of goodness or righteousness, but because Danzel was as simplistic as a nk sheet of paper.


    She didn��t hide any of her thoughts; every drop of desire was as clearly printed on this metaphorical sheet as standard script, without any stains or attempts to wipe them away.


    In contrast, both Ashe and Sonya were like articles smudged with dirt, their words appearing upright and principled at first nce, but the smeared ink between the lines, the hidden words at the beginnings and ends of sentences, and the repeatedly erased mistakes all indicated that they were fantasists with the minds of thieves but not the courage to act.


    So, when the question involved Danzel��s personal actions, there was no need for further analysis. It only required understanding her character traits to determine the most likely action she would take.


    While the options of ��serving�� and ��possessing�� were possible, the option of ��desecrating�� seemed tailor-made for Danzel.


    To use an inappropriate analogy, if option one was holding hands, and option two was kissing, option three was going all the way. For someone like Danzel, who pursued thrills to the end, how could she settle for just holding hands or kissing without reaching the main event?


    These three options represent a progression, testing the respondent��s level of obsession, and Danzel clearly scored full marks.


    ��You are correct,�� the Empress said. ��The stake for this question was your ��Expert-Level Tactics,�� and the reward you��ve earned is of equal value: ��Expert-Level Defense.����


    Two streams of light entered Danzel��s body, but she wasn��t concerned about her gains at the moment. Instead, her eyes gleamed as she stared at the unconscious Deya. Sonya stood protectively in front of Deya, ready to leave the cabin at a moment��s notice.


    Danzel��s reaction wasn��t hard to understand��she had deduced from the question that the Masked Girl must be her life��s beloved, whom she longed to be with in life and in death. However, the Masked Girl wasn��t present, only Deya, who bore an identical appearance to the Masked Girl.


    Without further information, she inevitably concluded that Ashe was not her paramour, but Deya was her true love.


    Or rather, Deya was the Substitute for the Masked Girl, bearing the brunt of Danzel��s affection.


    Even Ashe and Sonya thought so.


    After all, this made the cabin host two couples, turning the adventure from a cutthroat game of Werewolf into a social activity involving two couples��sounding much more normal.


    However, after Danzel revealed such a side of herself, even if it was due to the remnants of her conscience, Sonya couldn��t just hand over Deya to her!


    The Empress observed the affection in Danzel��s eyes, while the Phantom��s face showed a nostalgic sadness.


    ��Don��t you think that if they just lost their memories and continued to live with their current rtionships, it might be a good choice?��


    The Empress was surprised to hear the Observer, but realized that the others hadn��t noticed the Observer��s spoiler-filledment.


    Silently, a new rule emerged in the cabin: Phantoms could chat privately without the others noticing.


    This was naturally a newly born rule, as today was the first time since the emergence of the cabin that the number of Phantoms had reached amunicative level.


    The Empress was even beginning to get used to the cabin��s frequent remodeling.


    ��Of course not.�� The Swordswoman, already benched, coldly said, ��This kind of make-believe affection makes me want to vomit.��


    ��Really?�� The Witch leaned closer to the Swordswoman. ��Wait a moment, I��ll call a sister out, she��d absolutely love to taste the liquid Gold flowing from Death Maniac����


    ��I don��t think so either.��


    The Empress looked at the Observer: ��Whether in life, in death, or now, the Destiny that Danzel has faced is all due to the deep love of the Gospel. She doesn��t need a false Substitute, because she is still caught in that web of love; don��t hold her back.��


    ��I was just asking, no need to be so tense,�� the Observerughed. ��We��re just a bunch of Phantoms, we don��t have any special powers.��


    The Empress had fully realized that among the four Phantoms, three were traitors.


    However, when you see that everyone around you is a traitor, maybe it��s time to rethink your approach.


    ��You promised,�� Ashe grabbed Danzel��s hand, ��to wait for me to finish answering before leaving.��


    Danzel finally shifted her intense gaze away and pulled her wrist out of Ashe��s grasp: ��As long as she doesn��t leave early, I won��t leave early either.��


    Although Ashe didn��t know how to resolve the situation after leaving the cabin, for now, he could only continue answering questions to stabilize the situation.


    ��Is it finally our turn?��


    The Observer sat down in front of Ashe, showing a benevolent smile: ��Don��t be nervous, I am the Phantom that carries your memories, do you think I would harm you?��


    Ashe thought about it and nodded: ��Indeed, I should be a good person, so you probably can��t be too bad either.��


    ��Pfft.��


    ��Cough.��


    The Empress suddenly heard two inappropriateughs in a private chat, she turned around puzzled��had the Observer and Ashe just shared a joke?


    ��Hearing oneself praise oneself, truly a bizarre experience���� The Observer lowered his eyelids, ��Let��s start with the second question then.��


    ��We don��t need a diagram, after all, the question is quite simple��why were you reborn?��


    Everyone was startled.


    Reborn?


    ��First, you willingly became a pawn of the Four Pirs, setting up the Ritual Track to annihte the world, sacrificing billions of lives, thereby earning a second chance.��


    ��Second, you collected countless Sorcerer Handbooks, utilizing the power of numerous wishes, and spent millennia creating a Miracle that could turn the world upside down.��


    ��Third,�� the Observer blinked, ��you don��t know why.��

 Chapter 313: We go back to compound the torment of repeating the same mistakes

    Chapter 313: We go back topound the torment of repeating the same mistakes


    ��Do I know?��


    Ashe scratched his head and asked, ��If I choose ��I don��t know,�� does that count as a correct answer?��


    ��Of course it counts,�� the Observerughed. ��Who said ��I don��t know�� can��t be an answer?��


    Before you appeared, ��I don��t know�� certainly wasn��t considered an answer.


    But since your arrival, even if a feature like ��eliminate one wrong answer�� appeared in the cabin, I wouldn��t be surprised.


    The Empress muttered under her breath, thinking how could she possibly get along with this unclear internal threat, how could a memory quiz go well?


    Once Ashe heard that ��I don��t know�� could be officially epted, he felt relieved, thinking there was no other clue to pick but ��I don��t know.��


    It was quite justifiable, after all, he genuinely didn��t know.


    However,pared to the mundane ��I don��t know,�� the other two extraordinary options were like a calf flying to the sky. Ashe felt like his past self could have obliterated the great path.The first option: be a pawn, sacrifice the world!


    The second option: collect wishes, overturn the world!


    The former was a path of chaos and evil, thetter a path of order and goodness. Regardless of the choice, both implied Ashe had meddled with the vulnerable world, making onement the world��s misfortunes.


    Even Danzel stopped paying attention to Deya, shocked by the information revealed by Ashe��s question, ��Knight�� have you�� been reborn?��


    ��Asking me is useless, I��ve lost my memory,�� Ashe shrugged. ��If memory loss counts as rebirth, am I on my third life now?��


    Sonya silently moved next to Ashe, tightly grasping his arm, and said in a sweet tone, ��Dear Knight����


    Ashe shuddered with goosebumps, ��Back off, what are you doing!��


    ��Aren��t we lovers?�� Sonya tilted her head coquettishly, ��We��ve lost our memory, we need to rekindle our affection, right~��


    ��Didn��t you just say we should break up?��


    ��That��s just a little flirtation between lovers, how can life be lively without some quibbling?��


    ��Didn��t you say I cheated?��


    ��The truth hase out, the paramour is your sister��s paramour, not yours, so you��re still my faithful lover.��


    ��Didn��t you say I was probably not a good person and you were ready to turn from darkness to light?��


    ��Funny, I just happen to like bad boys!��


    Ashe saw right through her: ��You only approached me because you thought I might be someone important!��


    Sonya raised her eyebrows, ��So, you don��t want to get back together?��


    ��Hmph!��


    ��Speaking of which, we still have the ��Life Link�� blessing between us. Since we��re not in love anymore, I might as well trigger itter topletely cut ties without any lingering attachments����


    ��Speaking of which,�� Ashe suddenly said, ��why do you think we fell in love?��


    ��Hmm?�� Sonya blinked, unsure of Ashe��s intentions but sensing a hint of a yboy vibe.


    ��I think it must have been Unique Love, dazzled by your beauty.�� Ashe sincerely took Sonya��s hand, ��Thanks to this fortunate amnesia. Miss, nice to meet you, can we start over?��


    ��You��re clearly just afraid of being dragged down with me.�� Sonya snorted, but couldn��t help butugh, ��You��re not guessing that we were a couple in love for many years entering a period ofziness, and you even think you might cheat and find a paramour? Since we have amnesia, why not just take this opportunity to end this entanglement����


    ��Why end it? Come on, let��s get back together and retrace our steps to torment each other.��


    Ashe spoke with deep emotion, as if they truly were a long-term couple whose on-and-off rtionship would fit perfectly in a romantic drama series.


    Just as Ashe and Sonya were expertly sparring with words, a cough suddenly came from nearby.


    ��You two seem like you could talk for a very long time.�� the Observer said, ��How about we start with the quiz first?��


    ��Ah!?�� The Witch privately messaged, annoyed, ��Why interrupt them? I love watching their banter. I��m really curious what their expressions will be like once they regain their memories�� Observer, you��re supposed to be the Observer, surely you don��t find this scene awkward?��


    ��How could I? Even if they were to physically entangle and blend seamlessly right here, I��d onlyin about theck of snacks and drinks to liven things up, how could it possibly be awkward?�� the Observer replied, ��However, I��m not feeling awkward, but the person next to you is already awkwardly gripping his sword hilt.��


    The Witch nced at the Swordswoman, who was looking down, her expression hidden from view. All that was visible was her right hand caressing the ruby hilt of her sword, as if she were petting the head of a dog awaiting decapitation.


    Ashe��s gaze shifted to the two seemingly omnipotent choices.


    ��The Destroyer who sacrifices the world, the Savior who reverses causality���� Ashe mused, ��These options introduce two critical prerequisites: the Four Pirs and the Sorcerer Handbook. However, neither has been mentioned in the previous questions.��


    ��This means these options cannot be judged based on the information we have; we must guess based on my personality.��


    ��Isn��t that simple?�� Sonya asked, ��Do you see yourself more as a Destroyer or a Savior?��


    Her question turned all eyes in the cabin��including Danzel, the Swordswoman, and the Witch��toward Ashe. In that moment, he became the center of attention, as if his answer would tip the scales in everyone��s minds.


    Oblivious, Ashe looked down in contemtion, then pped his hands loudly.


    With the p, the dust settled.


    ��I don��t know.��


    ��You don��t know?�� Sonya was taken aback, ��But isn��t it easy to guess? Just see whether you��re more inclined to save people or to kill them.��


    ��What about you?�� Ashe countered, ��If it were you, do you see yourself as a Savior who would spend a thousand years for a glimmer of hope, or as a Destroyer willing to sacrifice millions of lives?��


    ��It��s not me being asked����


    ��ording to your logic, if you lean towards good, then you��re a Savior; if you lean towards evil, then you��re a Destroyer, isn��t that easy to guess?��


    Using my own words against me�� Sonya wanted to retort strongly, but the words choked in her throat, as if whatever she was about to say could be a time bomb that would ensnare her.


    A thousand years�� Although she didn��t know how long she had lived, a millennium certainly sounded like a long time.


    Millions of lives�� Even though she didn��t know if she had ever killed anyone, the number ��millions�� was undeniably frightening.


    Seeing Sonya��s hesitation, Ashe turned to Danzel and asked, ��What about you?��


    ��Destroyer,�� Danzel answered without hesitation. ��I don��t like wasting time.��


    ��You see,�� Ashe spread his hands, ��personality dictates memory, and memory affects personality. If I truly had done either of these things, then I would possess the character to make such decisions. Whether it��s a thousand years or bearing the sins of millions of lives, these would be deeply engraved in my soul, warping my cognition and shaping my thoughts.��


    ��More importantly,�� Ashe looked towards the Observer, ��I am well aware that even if I regain my memories, I might not possess the resolve to make such decisions.��


    ��I don��t smell the stench of mountains of corpses and seas of blood on myself, nor the rich aroma from enduring great hardships.��


    The Witch interjected, ��Swordswoman, can you smell it? We can��t smell anything����


    ��I can,�� the Swordswoman replied coldly, ncing at the Witch and then at the back of the Observer. ��But I can��t tell whose scent it is.��

 Chapter 314: The Woman Ashe Values Most

    Chapter 314: The Woman Ashe Values Most


    ��It seems you have figured out the answer,�� the Observer said. ��By the way, the treasure bound to this question is this.��


    A spirit appeared in the Observer��s hand: ��This is your most cherished spirit��your Substitute spirit.��


    Ashe looked at the Substitute spirit as if seeing a beloved, his expression instantly turning solemn. ��I can feel it; it indeed holds great importance to me!��


    ��So, you must make your choice carefully,�� the Observer intoned. ��State your answer.��


    ��Though I��d love to choose those identities that could allow me to dominate through ages, reversing cause and effect, after all, who wouldn��t want to have been a transcendent being braving storms of fire?�� Ashe shrugged. ��Unfortunately, I am one favored by a paramour (Danzel), and my wisdom does not allow me to deceive myself.��


    ��Option three, I am just an ordinary person who knows nothing.��


    The Observer nced at him, holding the Substitute spirit in his hand, which seemed unable to breathe.


    Then, with a sudden squeeze��


    ��Congrattions, you��ve got it right.��The Observer opened his right hand, which was empty. He released his left hand, and twin streams of light entered Ashe��s body: ��The reward you��ve received is the ��Command�� spirit.��


    Ashe breathed a sigh of relief. ��Don��t scare me like that.��


    ��It would be better still if I could scare you,�� the Observer lowered his eyelids. ��That way, when you need to forsake something precious in the future, perhaps you��ll be better prepared mentally.��


    Ashe blinked, feeling there was more to the Observer��s words, but the Observer clearly wanted to maintain the Riddler persona��he could understand, as he also enjoyed being a Riddler��skipping over the subject and moving on to thest segment in the cabin.


    ��Next, then, is your final question. This time I can assure you, it is truly, very, very simple,�� the Observer said cheerfully. ��Please rx and embrace with a joyful heart the end of this amnesia test.��


    Ashe moved his chair back, as if he half-expected the Observer to pull out a timed bomb for him to defuse.


    The Observer flipped open an album on the table. ��Your final question here is exactly the same as your first one here��choose from the following women the one who holds the highest ce in your heart.��


    Ashe breathed a sigh of relief��this was indeed simple. He knew he was just a man of aesthetics; he just needed to pick the most beautiful one.


    ��First is candidate number one.��


    The Observer turned to the first page. The painting depicted a familiar figure: wine-red hair, ruby eyes, a ck cocktail dress, holding a longsword, exuding a vibrant, youthful aura��it was Sonya.


    Sonya��s cheeks flushed slightly, and she couldn��t help but gently punch Ashe��s shoulder.


    ��Next is candidate number two.��


    Turning the second page revealed another familiar face: a ck and white checkered skirt outfit, one leg in white stockings, the other in ck, hair half ck and half white��it was Deya.


    ��And then, candidate number three.��


    The third page was turned, and this person was not known to them: amethyst earrings, holding a luxurious orange velvet folding fan, dressed in a purple coat, even the gloves were light purple, resembling the blooming beauty of violets. If anything, this woman seemed to bear a slight resemnce to Danzel, but only slightly.


    ��Next, candidate number four.��


    Turning the fourth page, it was also someone they did not know: the woman in the painting wore a loose ck robe and held a Crow Mask in her hand. She seemed to be lifting the mask, revealing half of her face, her soft ck hair shining with the luster of crow feathers, her rose-red lips tantalizing, and her crimson eyes seemingly capable of capturing souls.


    By this time, Sonya��s expression had slightly changed.


    ��And then, candidate number five����


    ��Stop!��


    Ashe pressed down on the Observer��s hand, which was poised to turn the page. The Observer blinked. ��What, aren��t you curious about the next options?��


    ��No need to see more,�� Ashe dered. ��I choose the first one.��


    ��So decisive?�� The Observer smiled slightly. ��Maybe the next one would be the woman who makes you fall in love at first sight.��


    ��Firstly, no matter how I think about it, I can only choose from the three people who appeared with me in the cabin. Now I know that the paramour is not my paramour, and the sister is probably not my sister, but the Lover could indeed be my lover.��


    ��Moreover,�� Ashe shrugged, ��calling her my Lover here and then choosing someone else as my favorite�� even I couldn��t do such a thing.��


    ��No need to worry about me,�� Sonya said calmly. ��After all, it��s all just your guess. Maybe I��m not your Lover at all?��


    Ashe tilted his head, looking at her and suddenly said, ��Personality decides memory, you know?��


    ��Hmm?��


    ��If you weren��t my Lover, I really wouldn��t need to consider your feelings.�� Ashe smiled. ��But I clearly realize that I would care about you. What do you think that means?��


    Sonya snorted, ��It means you��re the type who wants to have his cake and eat it too.��


    ��The treasure linked to this question is�� your second most cherished ��Retrograde Day�� spirit.��


    Observing that the Swordswoman was beginning to touch her sword hilt again, the Observer forcefully interrupted their emotional debate: ��Please state your answer.��


    ��Option one.��


    ��Unchanged?��


    ��Unchanged.��


    ��Alright then.�� The Observer leaned back in his chair and stretched, looking towards Ashe, Sonya, and Danzel, spreading his hands: ��You answered incorrectly, snap, your Retrograde Day spirit is gone.��


    After a moment of silence, Sonya��s voice filled the cabin.


    ��Can I see what the fifth candidate looks like?��


    The Observer blinked, ��Why?��


    Sonya replied, ��I��m just a bit curious�� By the way, are there a sixth and seventh candidate?��


    ��You clearly want to remember everyone��s face, so you can settle scores with me once you regain your memories!�� Ashe saw right through Sonya��s sinister intentions. ��You really are a cunning, petty, vindictive woman. Please, have the grace to let this go!��


    ��Sorry,�� the Observer said. ��The quiz is over, and it��s not possible to review the questions. Please exit the exam area in an orderly fashion.��


    Witch: ��I��m really looking forward to their reaction when they walk out of the cabin����


    Death Maniac Swordswoman: ��It��s not him?��


    Witch: ��Hmm?��


    Death Maniac Swordswoman: ��I thought the most important person to him right now would be�� Observer, what��s the answer?��


    Observer: ��The cabin hasn��t told me; it only judges whether the answers are right or wrong. But I can probably guess that the woman most important to Ashe right now is still her.��


    Meanwhile.


    Beneath the Time Continent in the Virtual Realm, the Sea of Knowledge.


    A boat is docked beside a small ind, where Freya sits on a chair with pen and paper, engaging in Destiny��s Inquiry.


    She hadn��t expected that just a few days into bing a Sorcerer, she would encounter an adventure that many sorcerers might only glimpse in passing their entire lives.


    What excited her even more was that she had just answered a question correctly, and it was rted to Ashe!


    ��Question �C Multiple Choice: What n will Freya Hoyle and Ashe Heath undertake together in the future?��


    ���� A n to rewrite destiny��


    ���� A n to reverse time��


    ���� A n to upend the world��


    ���� All of the above��


    Freya felt thrilled about the prospect of meeting Ashe again in the future, but she had no clue about the question and just guessed; surprisingly, she was correct!


    Thinking about how she and Ashe would be key figures in major ns in the future made her heart swell with excitement, even tempting her to leave the Virtual Realm immediately to satisfy her desires.


    But she needed to continue with Destiny��s Inquiry, knowing even a little more about the future was valuable. Freya took a deep breath to calm her nerves and focused on the paper, which then revealed several lines of text:


    ��Question �C Multiple Choice: Who is currently the most important woman in Ashe Heath��s mind?��


    ���� Death Maniac Swordswoman��


    ���� ck-and-White Witch��


    ���� Crow Physician��


    ���� Bewitcher Freya Hoyle��


    ���� Purple Moth Annan Dn��


    ���� Weeping Red Cap Cleos Baimu��


    ���� His mother��


    Freya looked at the seventh option, lost in thought.


    ����What does ��mother�� mean?��

 Chapter 315: Leaving the Cabin

    Chapter 315: Leaving the Cabin


    ��Everyone must be very quiet�� don��t wake her����


    ��We must enter the Virtual Realm only after she falls asleep; we cannot let her detect any traces or get any hints�� She must continue the Armoring Ritual inplete ignorance, otherwise the Hag will know.��


    ��Don��t forget to buy a return ticket before deceiving the heavens.��


    ��The Bronze Dragon�� this is our chance! We can finally leave this prison! ording to the clues provided by Destiny��s Inquiry, our departure is scheduled for May 2nd!��


    ��It��s time to make a decision, Deya.��


    ��Deya, now is not the time to be soft-hearted.��


    ��After the Bronze Dragon takes us away, she will be a burden�� Yes, she is the purest, most beautiful, and kindest girl in the world, but she is also our enemy.��


    ��She is the Sacrifice chosen by the Hag, the unformed despair, the suffocating air�� If she does not die, we are still caught in the Hag��s Weaving, unable to break free from the shackles of fate no matter how far we run. She is the Mask over our faces.��


    ��Deya, only you are qualified to make this decision. This is the one thing you cannot rely on us for.����Because you and she are the original twins, we are just the sisters you created.��


    ��It can only be you, it must be you.��


    ��Kill Lise, Deya.��


    Deya opened her eyes and stared nkly at the ceiling.


    ��Having a nightmare?�� Ashe asked. ��It��s my first time seeing someone cry in their sleep.��


    ��Given our situation, everything we do could be considered a first and precious experience,�� Sonya said, propping up her chin. ��Like the first time gouging out a boyfriend��s eyeballs or something����


    ��I only have two eyeballs though!��


    ��Then pulling out a boyfriend��s tongue would definitely be a novel experience����


    ��I��m sure it��s the cabin that��s wrong,�� Ashe dered confidently. ��How could the person I care about most not be the Lover willing to join me in this adventure at the cabin of amnesia? Don��t be fooled by the cabin��s tricks!��


    ��I don��t care who you value the most,�� Sonya rolled her eyes. ��And watch your words, who said I��m your Lover? It��s all your own presumptuous guesswork, taking advantage of my amnesia, hmph.��


    ��Since I��m not the person you value most, obviously I��m not your Lover either. Let��s go our separate ways after leaving the cabin; I��m physically allergic to men who are popr with women.��


    Ashe muttered, ��Your favorite person isn��t me either����


    ��That��s because there��s no gender restriction, so of course I like myself the most!�� Sonya immediately retorted. ��If it��s only about my favorite male, then I definitely����


    ��Definitely what?��


    ��I won��t tell you.�� Sonya turned her head away. ��We��re not even acquaintances, let��s not talk so much.��


    ��Well said!��


    An Observer, who had been watching the drama unfold, pped his hands. ��Now that everyone is awake, please leave the cabin as soon as possible. After all, this isn��t exactly a great ce for chatting, and����


    He nced sideways at the Swordswoman and the Witch behind him, revealing his hidden subtext: ��And we have a single woman here who can��t stand seeing others in love, you��ll get killed if you keep flirting here.��


    Ashe and the others had stayed in the cabin even after answering the question because they were waiting for Deya to wake up. ording to the information revealed by the questions, they knew that Deya might be a Substitute for Danzel��s Lover, and Danzel is an incurably obsessive and possessive type.


    If they were to carry an unconscious Deya outside, and Danzel confirmed his suspicion, he would likely immediately snatch Deya away and lock her in a basement to paint her in various colors.


    Two people carrying one unconscious person would be at a great disadvantage in a Battle against the ruthless and merciless Danzel, so they preferred to wait for Deya to wake up, even if she would just run away, to reduce the difficulty of the Battle.


    Deya, who had just wiped away her tears from sleeping, was pulled aside by Sonya for a whisper. Ashe took the initiative to walk up to Danzel, who also stood up to face him��Ashe then noticed that Danzel was actually much taller than him.


    It was also because of the height, when Danzel first entered the cabin, everyone subconsciously assumed she was a male. After all, in her loose Spiderweb Cloak, the tall Danzel looked more like a serial killer who had wandered into the cabin by mistake.


    ��Interested in a private meeting in the cabin? Just you and me,�� Ashe said with a smile.


    ��Although I don��t dislike you,�� Danzel replied, bending slightly to whisper in Ashe��s ear, ��I��m still eager to find out who has captured my heart.��


    During the conversation, Danzel��s appearance began to change. The Spiderweb Cloak tightened silently, transforming into a tight, see-through mesh bodysuit. Her raven-colored hair was pulled back into a long ponytail, and the shorts, barely covering the buttocks, clung tightly to her sculpted thighs. She wore gloves made of a ck and gold material.


    If the Girl of Peeping, Danzel, was an untouchable Saintess, now she resembled a ghostly prowler skilled in stealth operations.


    ��What��s this?��


    ��Spider Pavilion��s fourth troop type, Assassin Specialist.��


    ��Spider Pavilion Assassin Specialist: Closebat attacks cause +30% Soul Damage. 3yers of armor, humanoid creature, equipped with special Miracles ��Instant Death�� and ��Concealment��. Each unit consumes 7 points of Soul Power.��


    [Instant Death: All things have weaknesses. The Assassin Specialist excels in detecting discordant tunes in the melody of Destiny, using them to utterly annihte enemies. Attacks have a chance to ignore enemy armor.]


    [Concealment: When other Spider Pavilion troop types are present, the Assassin Specialist will never be the primary target of an attack. Enemies must eliminate the other troop types before they can detect the presence of the Assassin Specialist.]


    Although the use of the Girl of Peeping abilities was prohibited in the cabin, Danzel could utilize other troop types, just as Ashe��s current state as a Meteoric Warrior was still in effect.


    Ashe narrowed his eyes, knowing Danzel wouldn��t just stand by and watch Deya leave.


    Although Ashe could hold Danzel back alone in the cabin, allowing Sonya and Deya to escape first, this was clearly not the best strategy. After all, Danzel was alone, and the optimal strategy would obviously be to leave the cabin to regain 100%bat strength, then use their numerical advantage to overpower Danzel!


    Ashe nced at Sonya and Deya, understanding the next steps in their n.


    Of course, once they left the cabin, they could recover fullbat strength, and so could Danzel. But it was unreasonable to think that the three of them together couldn��t defeat Danzel alone!


    ��And�� my dear faux paramour, aren��t you being a bit careless?��


    Hands quietly wrapped around Ashe��s body, one around his neck and the other around his waist, as Danzel pulled him tightly into her embrace!


    The dormant Meteoric Warrior armor on Ashe��s body immediately surfaced, attempting to resist the embrace of the viinous woman, but to no avail��Danzel��s hands, equipped with Assassin Specialist gloves, could ignore the armor!


    Ashe lost his chance to resist; his neck was now in Danzel��s grip. He had already experienced the strength of his grand paramour; his neck would break as easily as a wafer cookie if squeezed.


    Ashe remained calm: ��nning to use me as a hostage?��


    Danzel��s breath lightly brushed Ashe��s earlobe: ��I just want to linger a moment longer with my little paramour before I regain my memories.��


    Seeing this, Sonya immediately gripped her sword hilt, but Ashe stopped her with a look.


    At the same time, an Observer from the Phantom faction ced a finger to their lips, signaling with their gaze for the Swordswoman, who was just about to rise from her chair, to sit back down.


    ��That��s wonderful. I too would like to feel the warmth of a lover a bit longer before we part, as we might never have the chance again,�� Ashe said with a smile. ��Let��s go. It��s time to leave this cabin�� and perhaps start our rtionship anew.��


    The four approached the cabin door, with Danzel and Ashe on one side, and Sonya and Deya on the other.


    Ashe reached for the door handle, then suddenly stopped.

 Chapter 316: See You Later

    Chapter 316: See You Later


    ��What��s wrong?�� Sonya was somewhat anxious.


    ��It��s nothing. I was just thinking, if I regain my memories, does that mean the me at this moment is killed by the former me?��


    ��Why are you suddenly engaging in philosophical spection now?�� Sonya, her nerves taut, was visibly frustrated.


    Danzel suddenly asked, ��Are you scared?��


    Ashe thought for a moment and surprisingly nodded, ��Maybe.��


    ��For example,�� Ashe looked at Sonya, ��didn��t you say that our real rtionship might not be that of lovers? But right now, I truly regard you as my Lover.��


    ��Or to put it another way, more direct, without any ambiguity, andpletely open-hearted��I like you now.��


    Sonya was taken aback.


    ��But if after leaving the cabin, memories tell us that we are not in that kind of rtionship, does that mean the me who likes you now is killed by the former me?����Thinking about it,�� Ashe sighed, ��memory is indeed a terrifying power.��


    ��But that��s just avoidance.��


    Everyone was startled.


    The speaker was Deya, who had just awakened from aa. Always timid, she was now very firm in expressing her opinion: ��The past doesn��t cease to exist just because you don��t face it; rather, it is by carrying the past that you have be who you are now. Living is a process of killing oneself; knowledge kills foolishness, reality kills naivety, silence kills voice, and avoidance is pointless because who we are now is the result of our past.��


    ��To achieve our goals, killing oneself is sometimes inevitable. Even if we start over, Destiny is a very strict narrow path, and the things we once gave up, we must eventually abandon.��


    Ashe blinked, ��You make a lot of sense����


    ��No.��


    Sonya looked at Deya, then at Ashe, ��If abandoning the past can make me better, then I��d rather abandon it. Rather than repeating the same mistakes, I believe everything can start anew.��


    Ashe paused for a moment, then realized Sonya was referencing their earlier casual conversation about avoiding repeating past mistakes and mutual torment. He couldn��t help but chuckle, ��Who do you want to start over with?��


    Sonya bared her teeth in a grin, ��None of your business!��


    At that moment, Danzel ced his hand on top of Ashe��s, which was on the doorknob, ��So, are all of you mentally prepared?��


    Sonya, unyielding, ced her hand on Danzel��s, ��I��m ready to part ways.��


    Deya put her hand on Sonya��s, ��I�� We are ready too.��


    ��Then���� Ashe said, ��Knight, Lover, sister, paramour�� see youter.��


    The overwhelmed doorknob turned hastily, eager to send off the visitors.


    The cabin door opened.


    What met their eyes was the eternal Reverse Golden Rain.


    As they stepped out of the cabin, the glow of the Reverse Golden Rain reflected in their pupils, illuminating the pce of memories, and the darkness shrouding the cabin dissipated.


    The countless factors that constituted their personalities, Souls, intelligence, thinking patterns, and Rules of action were fully awakened.


    Everyone��s pupils dted more and more.


    And more.


    Inside the cabin.


    With Danzel��s departure, the Phantom of the Empress who returned the memories also vanished.


    But the other three Phantoms seemed still fond of the warmth of the cabin and did not exit immediately.


    ��I think Deya spoke very well just now, truly worthy of being me,�� the Witch walked behind the Observer and smiled, ��What should be abandoned, better to abandon sooner rather thanter. Avoiding the past is futile; under the grand scheme of Destiny, everything will repeat itself�� Observer, there��s still time to change the n.��


    The Observer ignored the Witch, who then bounced over and sat next to the Swordswoman, trying to gain an ally, ��Swordswoman, what do you think?��


    ��I actually agree with Sonya,�� the Swordswoman said calmly, ��If it can make us better, abandoning the past is not necessarily a bad thing. I think our ��interference�� has been enough. Observer, we need to adopt a more cautious intervention strategy moving forward.��


    The Witch was taken aback, ��But I remember you were the most opposed to the n before����


    ��That means I��ve already killed my former self,�� the Swordswoman said with her eyes closed.


    ��But aren��t you jealous?��


    ��Jealous of what?��


    ��Shouldn��t the one to start over be you, after all the hardships you��ve endured?�� The Witch whispered into the Swordswoman��s ear, her voice like a slick tongue stirring up a storm of emotions, ��If it were you, you could do it better than her����


    ��You could regain everything you never had before��honor, the spotlight, enthusiastic apuse, envious gazes����


    ��Your path would be one of flowers and starlight, not a bloody road paved with corpses; you would have countless admirers longing for you, not endless avengers seeking revenge; you could live a peaceful life as a normal swordsmanship girl, instead of bing one����


    ��Do you think I resent everything I��ve been through?��


    The Swordswoman grabbed the Witch��s wrist, ��No, I don��t resent it at all. The mountains of corpses and seas of blood are familiar to me, killing avengers is a diversion in my life, and peace, normalcy, and society are the top three things I despise the most.��


    ��I enjoy every feast Destiny prepares for me, and it��s precisely because I��ve absorbed enough nutrients that I��ve be so strong.��


    ��I don��t need to act like a weakling, trying to make up for regrets or reminiscing over past sorrows.��


    The Witch stared into the Swordswoman��s eyes, ��You avoided my question��aren��t you jealous of Sonya Therave?��


    ��Why would I be jealous of her?�� the Swordswoman replied, unflinchingly, ��Although her childishness is somewhat annoying, at least she has grown up normally.��


    The Witch kept her gaze fixed on the Swordswoman, her lips curling into a subtle smirk, a deep malice surfacing in her murky pupils. The normally fearless Swordswoman felt a twinge of nervousness and slowly reached for her sword hilt��


    ��Never mind.�� The Witch quickly moved away from the Swordswoman and turned to the Observer, ��Observer, what do you think? Instead of letting the ��present�� grow slowly, why not let the ��past�� take the stage?��


    ��Hmm���� the Observer said leisurely, ��I��ve heard your suggestion.��


    ��Hey!�� the Swordswoman abruptly stood up, ��You��re not thinking of giving up halfway, are you?��


    ��Of course, I��m not going to give up halfway,�� the Observer shook his head.


    ��So what do you mean?�� the Witch asked, ��Are you suggesting we reduce our interference as the Swordswoman said, or do you propose we take direct action as I suggested?��


    ��What do I mean?��


    The Observer tapped his fingers lightly on the table, ��Ashe��s intentions are my intentions.��


    ��The choice I made that day is deeply engraved in my soul, it has twisted my perception, and shaped my thoughts.��


    ��My personality, my awareness, my memories, they all exist to implement this will.��


    ��You ask me what I mean?��


    The Observer gave them a cold nce, ��You phantoms, left with nothing but memories, dare to question my decisions?��

 Chapter 317: paramour Strikes Back

    Chapter 317: paramour Strikes Back


    The Chariot of the Bull strides toward the horizon, and the River of Flowing Gold gradually fades away.


    Only the Souls of the past are being reborn.


    Ashe dons the armor of a Knight, Sonya wraps herself in the coat of a Lover, Deya removes the Mask of her sister, and Danzel packs away the mood of a paramour.


    ��Return the ��Secret Incarnation�� to me.��


    Danzel��s voice bes t again, like rain walking against the order of the world, shedding the inertia of emotions, leaving only a will to fulfill the mission.


    ��Then return the ��Incarnation of the Stars�� to me,�� Ashe replies lightly, ��You��re not my paramour, after all. You can��t just freeload from me, can you?��


    Although they had never met before, Ashe immediately realizes that Danzel is the Commander of the heroic soul legion pursuing them. After all, Danzel had revealed in the cabin that she possessed the ability of ��armed forces,�� a special effect of Soul Summoning.


    While a Sorcerer might also be lucky enough to rob a spirit with Soul Summoning, like Ashe himself, all the Sorcerers who dared approach Ashe were used by him as expendable rearguards. Therefore, within a radius of one kilometer, the only person other than Ashe who could possess a spirit of Soul Summoning was the Commander of the heroic soul legion hunting him.


    ��Mind your position.�� Danzel��s right hand tightens slightly, and Ashe suddenly feels as if his neck has turned into a wet towel that an Ogre is about to wring dry, almost unable to breathe.��Swordswoman, Witch, leave immediately,�� Ashe grabs Danzel��s right hand and forces it open with all his strength, creating enough space to speak. ��What follows is a private meeting time just for me and this Heroic Soul Commander. It��s not convenient to have you unrted folks spectating.��


    ��Sharpening for a Decade!��


    ��Stream thread!��


    Sonya and Deya clearly show their stance with their actions, evidently unable to stand by as Ashe flirts.


    ��There��s only one of her,�� the rustic girl tilts her head, ncing at the dim figures of the legion��s followers outside the fence. ��Her army can��te in, we have the advantage in numbers now����


    ��Do we?��


    Danzel��s form emits a faint purple glow, and the color of her Assassin Specialist suit deepens, as if countlessyers of clothing were piling up. Despite still wearing a light, translucent mesh dress, she exudes an unbreakable, oppressive thickness.


    ��Although the armor of an Assassin Specialist is the lowest among Level 4 troops, if you stack 10 units of troops, it can umte up to 30yers of armor,�� Danzel exins. ��In Legion battles, if ites down to just themanders, it bes a pure contest of Soul Power. Whoever has more Soul Power can arm more troops. A heroic soul armed with thousands of units of troops is in itself a Legion��that��s what��s meant by ��invincible heroic soul.����


    ��Do you Sorcerers really want topete with me in Soul Power consumption?�� Danzel gently strokes Ashe��s cheek, her sharp nails even making Ashe feel wounded. ��It��s been a while since I personally fought a Meteoric Warrior from the Star Hall. Why don��t you turn those two into Meteoric Warriors as well?��


    Due to the subtle connection between Soul Summoning spirits, heroic souls can recognize each other. However, this recognition is quite crude;rades can approximately identify each other��s specific identities, but hostile camps can hardly obtain more information. This is why ido mistakenly thought Ashe was the logisticsmander, Demilo, and initially, Danzel also thought Ashe was amander from the Star Hall.


    Thus, Danzel immediately recognizes that only Ashe possesses a Soul Summoning spirit here, while the other two girls are likely hisbat followers or merely for his personal amusement.


    ��Forget it, having women help me suppress a paramour sounds extremelyme, making me seem like some viciously spoiled Noble scion,�� Ashe shrugs, ncing at Sonya and the other girl. ��Go on, you two. With you here, I��m not at ease to make my moves.��


    Ashe knows in his heart that they definitely can��t match Danzel. After arming himself as a Meteoric Warrior, Ashe has exhausted the Soul Power resources they had saved up over the past days.


    Soul Power is a subtle resource, asionally dropped when Knowledge Creatures are in, though the chance is extremely low. Gregarious Creatures almost never drop it, Large Creatures have about a 33% drop rate, and Overlord Creatures always drop it.


    Danzel, backed by the power of the Divine Master, carries an unknown amount of Soul Power, ready to arm herself with dozens or even hundreds of units at any moment. Ashe, after arming himself as a Meteoric Warrior, only has 7yers of armor, while Danzel can surge to 700yers at any moment. The difference in their health bars isn��t even on the same scale. How could they possibly fight?


    Danzel isn��t some slow, foolish boss who will just stand there and let them attack. In fact, from the perspective of Danzel, now armed as an Assassin Specialist, it��s they who seem like slow-moving minions.


    Regardless, the Witch and the Swordswoman need to leave first. That way, even if negotiations with the Heroic Soul paramour fall apart, only Ashe, who failed in his romantic encounter, would die!


    ��If it��s for your protection, dying once is not a price I��m unwilling to pay.��


    Catching the look of trust Ashe throws her way, Sonya gently bites her lower lip and, grabbing Deya��s slender waist, retreats towards the outer wall of the cabin, trying to use it as an obstacle to escape the Heroic Soul Commander��s line of sight��


    ��Are they your most precious treasures?��


    The steps of the tall female assassin approach like the shadow of an eclipse, growing more menacing with each step. When thest question mark brushes against her back, Sonya turns to look. Dragged by her right hand, Ashe looks like a doll, while her left hand, which should have been ying an instrument, stabs towards Sonya, its slender jade-like fingers colder than the teeth of a ying Fish-Dragon!


    Miracle Water Moon!


    Miracle Strangling Thread!


    The rustic girl directly opts to counter with the Counterattack Miracle, returning themander��s kic energy in full force; the Secret Princess assists from the side, her multiyered threads capable of slicing a Large Creature into dozens of pieces, entangling the Heroic Soul like a trap!


    ng!


    Boom!


    The counterattack, ineffective!


    The strangling, threads copse!


    Danzel grabs Sonya by the neck with one hand, mming her heavily onto the ground! Her pale purple nails embed into the rustic girl��s flesh, like a poison continuously consuming her soul!


    However, the more chaotic and bloody the situation bes, the calmer Sonya��s light red eyes appear. She quickly uses the ground as a leverage point, swinging her sword towards Danzel, then numerous threads envelop themander��s body!


    Miracle Blood Flower Water Moon��


    The strongest Swordsmanship Miracle abruptlyes to a halt.


    ��Why did it stop?��


    Danzel pulls Ashe in front of herself, now those Moon Silk threads that were aimed at her are wrapping around Ashe.


    ��Meteoric Warriors have 7yers of armor,�� Danzel says. ��A Two Wings Sorcerer doesn��t have the power to break through 7yers of armor in one strike, so go ahead and hit him.��


    ��Let them go!�� Deya forcibly maniptes the water threads, wrapping 13 loops around Danzel��s neck and then pulling back hard. However, the beheading Miracle that would have severed anyone else��s neck merely wears down oneyer of Danzel��s armor, which she disregards as if merely a neck massage from the Witch.


    As her Soul fades, Sonya bes increasingly transparent, but she has no intention of begging for mercy. Now that Ashe is being used as a human shield by Danzel, she aims a kick at the Empress��s groin��kicking hard, with all her might, aiming for the most vulnerable and vicious spot.


    If I can��t hurt you, I��ll disgust you!


    Just as they seem about to be wiped out, Ashe suddenly says, ��If you don��t want to kill me, then you��d better stop. She and I are linked by the Life Link blessing.��


    Upon hearing this, Sonya feels the nails embedded in her neck being pulled out. Even though she is a seasoned fighter in the Virtual Realm, being pinned down and slowly ground down is a new experience for her. Yet, the feeling rising in the heart of the president of the Stretching ws Club is not fear or dread, but intense shame��


    She is seen in such a powerless state by the Observer!


    ��I��m actually helping you,�� Danzel says. ��I triggered the ��Life Link�� and then stopped. Isn��t that enough to help you remove this shackle? Just a little more force and I could have done it. Are you sure you want me to stop?��


    However, Ashe ignores Danzel��s provocation, saying to himself, ��You really don��t want to kill me, because death is merely my escape route, while your goal is to steal the ��Secret Incarnation�� I carry.��


    ��You can��t kill me, nor can you kill her; you can��t even kill the Witch massaging your neck��she possesses a ��Shared Death�� curse that will randomly select one of us four to die in her ce. If you��re lucky enough, you��ll achieve the ��I kill myself�� aplishment.��


    ��You can��t threaten anyone,�� Ashe calmly states. ��Let us go, my unknown paramour.��


    ��You��re right, and you��re wrong,�� Danzel responds. ��If I need to retrieve the Secret Incarnation, indeed, I cannot kill anyone��but if you��re utterly unwilling to give up, then your lives be meaningless to me.��


    Danzel then lifts up Sonya as well, walking straight to the fence. Deya, using all her strength, leaps onto Danzel��s back and tightens the water thread. However, the water thread now acts merely as a backpack, making Deya hang on Danzel��s back like a baby.


    With both hands, Danzel lifts Sonya and Ashe into the air, facing them towards the natural world outside the fence. A massive Octo-eye Spider breaks through the curtain of rain, its ruby pupils intensely focused on the two fragile Sorcerers before it. Its mouthparts quiver slightly, as if thanking the Virtual Realm for today��s feast.


    Beyond the Octo-eye Spider, numerous Phantoms loom in the shadows behind the rain, so many that Ashe and Sonya couldn��t even satisfy the minimal needs of these creatures to fill the gaps between their teeth.


    ��We generally don��t deliberately erase a Sorcerer��s Soul,�� Danzel��s voice rises from behind them. ��But we don��t mind letting our minions enjoy a feast asionally.��


    ��The moment I throw you in, your Souls will be torn apart by dozens of Virtual Realm creatures. You won��t even have time to return to reality; you��ll just watch helplessly as your Souls split apart, feeling the agony of consciousness fading and the loneliness of spirit obliteration. Your bodies will never awaken again; you won��t even qualify to fall into hell but will simply be a Phantom of the Virtual Realm. I��ll greet you as I pass by.��


    Facing the looming Octo-eye Spider, Sonya��s body stiffens instantly, the air of death so heavy it��s almost suffocating. Countless textbook knowledge floods her mind, questioning her fragile Soul.


    After all, she is just an 18-year-old girl.


    Sonya��s lips tremble slightly, and a barely audible choke escapes her throat as she struggles to control the shaking of her eyes, desperately trying not to allow tears of humiliation to form. Whether it��s a spasm caused by fear or a struggle driven by the will to survive, her hands il aimlessly, searching for something, anything, that might save her.


    And then, she grasps it.


    When the Knight takes her hand, the grievances in her eyes finally condense into a mist of tears that flow down.

 Chapter 318: The Contract of Attendance

    ��My dear paramour,�� Sonya heard Ashe��s mboyantughter, ��you remain unchanged, just like when you are in the cabin.��


    ��When you lie in the cabin, you suddenly be verbose, using reasons and excuses to mask your true intentions, shifting others�� focus with a plethora of words.��


    ��You say you want to kill us, if that��s a lie, then it means you definitely won��t kill us.��


    ��Why wouldn��t you kill us? The answer is obvious����Secret Incarnation�� is too crucial to you, you simply cannot afford to lose it, so you resort to threats to make us submit.��


    ��That��s a bold assumption,�� Danzel remarked. ��But aren��t you afraid that I��ll be angered into throwing you out?��


    Ashe turned to look at Sonya, who turned her head away, her fingers tensing slightly.


    ��Then throw us out,�� Ashe said. ��I hear that spiders bind their prey into yogurt before enjoying them. I��m quite curious about that kind of death. Interested in letting me try?��


    The wind stopped, but the rain had not yet ceased. Suddenly, the surroundings became so quiet that only the sound of Deya pulling at the threads and the low hum of the Octo-eye Spider��s mouthparts slicing the air could be heard.


    ��Hmm.��Snap! Ashe and hispanion were mmed to the ground. Deya hurried over to help them up, and the three of them red menacingly at Danzel, who stood near the fence. The terrifying Octo-eye Spider formed a backdrop that painted her with an imperial authority.


    ��I didn��t realize you were such a greedy man,�� Danzel said, arms crossed. ��To keep the ��Secret Incarnation��, you not only gamble with your own life but even that of your����


    ��Teammate,�� Ashe interjected.


    Danzel nced at Sonya. ����aren��t you afraid of losing the bet?��


    ��All I know is that gambling might result in loss, but not gambling guarantees death,�� Ashe said calmly. ��If I hand over the ��Secret Incarnation��, then you��ll definitely throw us out to feed the spiders.��


    Danzel narrowed his eyes. ��I��m not that bad.��


    Though her words sounded almost coquettish, her t tone suggested an underlying message of ��I��m actually not bad enough��.


    ��You are a ghost driven mad by love, using ughter to distort the definition of love and using corpses to build a cage of love,�� Ashe dered, pausing deliberately between words. ��As long as it serves your affection, no moral rules or principles can stand in your way.��


    ��Your current master���� Ashe continued, each word heavy with implication, ����is the Omniscient Weaver whom you once considered forbidden, right?��


    Sonya had told Ashe a few days earlier that Demilo was likely from the Stars Kingdom. Combined with the titles like Star Hall, she strongly suspected that the owner of Star Hall was the guardian of the Stars Kingdom, the Stars Sovereign.


    Ashe naturally didn��t doubt Sonya��s words, but he didn��t fully trust them either. After all, Sonya had her own narrative world, and it was normal for it to be connected to reality.


    However, Danzel��s appearance unequivocally proved that the wandering heroic soul legions in the Time Continent were indeed the handiwork of the Divine Masters. Her mention of the ��Incarnation of the Gospel of the Omniscient Weaver�� indicated that she was an ancient sorcerer from the Gospel Kingdom a millennium ago, who might have even aplished great deeds. Ashe might even have encountered the descendants of her bloodline.


    Danzel didn��t respond but tapped her finger lightly on the wooden railing. Immediately, the entourage outside the fence began to stir.


    ��You��re someone who��s ustomed to eradicating problems at the root,�� Ashe said. ��We know too much, and even for the Omniscient Weaver, you can��t possibly let us go easily. The ��Secret Incarnation�� is our only amulet. Once you take it back, it��s like removing thest concern, allowing you to freely turn us into Sorcerer Projections in the Virtual Realm.��


    Danzel remained silent, but the Octo-eye Spider behind her quieted down.


    ��The Static Domain is approaching,�� Ashe nced at the sky where the massive foot of the White Bull was no longer visible. A gloomy cold light began to dominate the horizon, slowly squeezing out the Golden Rain. ��Didn��t you say you prefer clever people? At this moment, a clever person would make only one decision.��


    ��What decision?�� Danzel finally spoke. ��Surely not to let you go?��


    ��Let us go, and we will eventually return to this area,�� Ashe said calmly. ��Then, you will have another chance to seize the ��Secret Incarnation�� from us. If you kill us, then you�� would be letting your lover down.��


    Themander��s tapping finally stopped.


    ��Will youe back?��


    ��How could a Sorcerer not return to the Virtual Realm?��


    ��What if����


    ��You just have to trust us,�� Ashe said. ��We can��t just stoping to the Virtual Realm, and I don��t know where you might appear or how to avoid you.��


    Sonya and Deya remained silent, merely bowing their heads to hide the gleam of triumph in their eyes from Danzel.


    They certainly knew where themander would be and how to avoid her pursuit!


    Ashe��s map of the Virtual Realm had already shown that the route of the Chariot of the Bull was circr, reaching the same area every cycle. That meant when the Chariot of the Bull was about to reach the Spider Pavilion area, they could simply rest and do their own things that night. By not showing up for work in the Virtual Realm, they would naturally avoid Danzel��s pursuit.


    However, Danzel shook her head: ��I don��t trust you.��


    Ashe��s expression hardened.


    ��I only trust contracts.��


    Danzel snapped her fingers, and her appearance instantly shifted from a mysteriously alluring Assassin Specialist to a smartly dressed office woman, wearing a vest and a short skirt, high heels, and a pair of in sses��though she was a bit taller than usual.


    Ashe was momentarily stunned. ��Is this also�� one of your troops from the Spider Pavilion?��


    ��No,�� Danzel shook her head, her fingers pinching forward, suddenly pulling a contract out of thin air. ��This is the ��profession�� responsible for production.��


    She didn��t seem inclined to exin further. With a flick of her finger, three contractsnded in front of Ashe and the others.


    The contract was straightforward.


    ��Party A: Spider Pavilion Commander 001��


    ��Party B: (Pending arcane energy certification)��


    ��When the Chariot of the Bull enters the Spider Pavilion Area, Party B must remain in the Spider Pavilion Area for more than three hours.��


    ��If Party B possesses a ��Soul Summoning�� spirit, they must not abandon the ��Soul Summoning�� spirit.��


    ��If Party A encounters and captures Party B, Party B must willingly surrender the ��Soul Summoning�� spirit.��


    ��Breach of contract penalties: For the first breach, Party A will confiscate one of Party B��s held spirits (��Soul Summoning�� spirit prioritized); for the second breach, two spirits; for the third breach��; for the tenth breach, Party B will face death.��


    ��Effective date of the contract: From the moment of signing.��


    ��Sign it,�� Danzel said with an upromising coldness. ��Or be thrown out.��


    ��But think carefully, once you sign this contract, even if you hand over the ��Soul Summoning�� spirit, it won��t end there. Either you will be hunted to death in the Virtual Realm, or you will be punished by the Virtual Realm after ten missed opportunities.��


    Sonya shook her head. ��What if we ascend to a higher level of the Virtual Realm? Wouldn��t that guarantee a breach? I won��t sign a contract that ultimately ensures death.��


    Danzel��s expression remained unchanged. ��That��s an oversight on my part. I��ll add it.��


    Then, another use appeared in the contract: ��Should Party B enter a higher level of the Virtual Realm making it impossible to ess the Time Continent, this contract bes void.��


    The three looked at each other, and Danzel raised her eyebrows. ��Any other objections? I��ve already allowed you a permanent way to escape pursuit. You couldn��t possibly expect more, could you? Or do you think I would let you go without any conditions?��


    After signing, Ashe and the others would have to show up for work at the Spider Pavilion on the designated days. Absence meant a docking of pay, and ten absences meant retirement��permanent retirement.


    ��Of course,�� Ashe reviewed the contract. ��However, there are no uses that bind you, which seems rather improper.��


    ��How would you propose to bind me?�� Danzel��s voice held no hint of anger, almost as if genuinely curious. ��I can��t just let you go, and I certainly won��t be lenient the next time we meet.��


    ��Once I catch you, you must hand over the ��Soul Summoning�� spirit, and then you��ll be a snack for my followers.��


    ��That��s the point,�� Ashe said. ��Without a contract, you won��t let us go; but even with one, you might not allow us to leave.��

 Chapter 319: The Stars Have Faded

    Chapter 319: The Stars Have Faded


    Danzel was about to say something, but suddenly realizing something, she closed her mouth.


    ��This Contract has a loophole,�� Ashe raised the contract in his hand. ��What if, right after we sign, you strike us down, causing our Souls to be damaged and preventing us from entering the Virtual Realm for half a month? Wouldn��t that inevitably lead to breach of contract?��


    Danzel removed her decorative t sses and lowered her eyelids, ��I hadn��t even thought of that loophole. You really are overthinking it, Mr. Knight.��


    ��I��ve just been cheated by contracts quite a bittely, so I��ve be more cautious,�� Ashe said. ��If you��re not harboring such thoughts, why not add a use that binds you as well, to give us some peace of mind? And remember to include your retinue in the contract, since you could just as easily have your followers do your bidding.��


    Danzel stared at Ashe for a long while, the cold light shooting from her eyes clearly indicating that Ashe��s suspicions were not unfounded. Sonya and Deya stood guard by Ashe��s side, their stance making it clear they wouldn��t let Danzel seed easily.


    ��The Static Domain is approaching,�� Ashe nced at the horizon where gold was gradually being squeezed out by gray. ��If you haven��t made a decision yet, then we must take our leave, Your Majesty the Empress.��


    With a stern face, Danzel waved her hand, and the Contract was amended with a new use:


    ��For one hour after signing, Party A and itsmanding units are not permitted to kill Party B.��


    ��As you wish.��It was the first time Ashe heard a fluctuation in Danzel��s voice, signifying this was her bottom line.


    The Heroic Soul Commander was indeed too shrewd, even knowing to bind them with a contract.


    Ashe and hispanions exchanged nces, knowing they couldn��t get past this hurdle without signing. They reluctantly used arcane energy to imprint the contract.


    Watching the contract paper burn to effectuate, Ashe felt a sense of d��j�� vu, as if he had experienced something simr not too long ago�� and it was the same old coercive blend of threats and enticements, a perilous situation where one ispletely at the mercy of others, exactly the same recipe.


    But having signed the contract meant they were finally getting past this life-or-death situation. Ashe breathed a sigh of relief and waved at Danzel, ��Then we��ll be taking our leave, until next time����


    ��Who told you that you could leave?��


    In an instant, Danzel reverted to her Assassin Specialist demeanor, transforming into a shadow that darted into Ashe��s embrace, her palm de striking the Knight and sending him flying!


    Miracle Rupture Wave sh!


    Miracle Whip de!


    Sonya and Deya didn��t hesitate andunched their attacks, but their efforts couldn��t prate the dense, invisible armor surrounding Danzel. Unyielding in her assault, Danzel grabbed both of them by their arms and flung them aside!


    Miracle Sword Art!


    Ashe��s Heart Sword arrived a moment toote. Since his time in the Legendary Library, where he upgraded all his Swordsmanship spirits to Two Wings, the power of his Sword Art Miracles had increased dramatically. Although his burst damage wasn��t as high as Sonya��s, his sustained damage output�� was also not as high as Sonya��s.


    But underestimate his damage at your peril!


    Snap!


    Danzel pped away the Heart Sword with a single blow and rushed over to pin Ashe to the ground, pummeling him mercilessly. Sonya and Deya didn��t waste words; they exhausted their Miracles trying to harm Danzel, but she absorbed the blows and countered fiercely.


    After several rounds of back and forth, Ashe suddenly realized that although he was constantly being hit, he wasn��t actually hurt. It was more about losing face under Danzel��s onught. Realizing something, he raised his hands to shield his face from the attacks and shouted, ��You two need to exit the Virtual Realm now, or it��ll be toote!��


    ��It��s already toote.��


    Danzel grabbed Sonya��s wrist and flung her toward Deya, who hastily interrupted her Miracle to catch her teammate.


    ��That��s enough, no more fighting.�� She unterally dered a ceasefire.


    You say stop and we just stop!? Although Sonya wanted to retort with defiance, considering the disparity in theirbat strength, she could only say with frustration, ��Can you get off him?��


    The Heroic Soul Commander shrugged nonchntly andplied, stepping away from Ashe.


    She looked up at the sky: ��It��s over.��


    Sonya sensed something was amiss; when she looked up, she immediately understood Danzel��s intent.


    At that moment, the sky had turned into a battlefield of gold and gray, with Golden Rain steadily retreating under the relentless advance of the gray. The flowers and grass around the cabin began to wither, and the world between heaven and earth gradually became a weave of only ck and white.


    ��You��re trying to kill us using the Static Domain,�� Sonya stated, not as a question but as a fact.


    ��You��re smart,�� Danzel replied. ��And I happen to excel at dealing with smart people. All I need to do is deliberately show a few insignificant loopholes and feign regret after you��ve ��seen through�� my scheme. Just like that, your caution fades away like a well-fed lion falling into a deep sleep.��


    The Contract only restrained Danzel from killing them; it didn��t mean she couldn��t attack them.


    And by continuously attacking, Danzel ensured the Sorcerers couldn��t leave the Virtual Realm.


    This was the real loophole in the Contract: there were too many external factors in the Virtual Realm that could kill a Sorcerer. The Heroic Soul Commander didn��t need to act directly; merely hindering the Sorcerers from leaving would soon let disasters catch up with them.


    ��My turn is over,�� Danzel announced as she turned to leave. ��I hope to see you in the next round.�� Ashe squinted his eyes, ��We definitely won��t disappoint the Empress�� paramour.��


    Danzel ignored Ashe��s jest and left the cabin, moving into the gray expanse of the Static Domain with her troops, leaving the three Sorcerers behind in the cabin area.


    It seemed that finally being free from immediate danger, they ally down on the grass, breathing slowly to ease their tension. The silence, now tinged with gray, felt strangely warm, but the ck and white creeping over their bodies filled them with a hollow sense of safety.


    ��It feels like the Witch hasn��t changed much,�� Deya noted, looking at Ashe.


    Ashe pointed at his coat, ��After all, the Witch��s usual color scheme is ck and white, so staying in the Static Domain feels quite natural.��


    ��Compared to that, the Swordswoman being turned into ck and white is more like funeral makeup����


    Sonya gave him a weary nce, too tired to engage further, and brought up a serious matter: ��What about the Contract? We can��t escape the Static Domain.��


    ��Don��t worry, just resign yourselves to death, and I��ll figure out how to heal the damaged Souls,�� Ashe retorted with a coldugh. ��She��s been so ruthless to us; I��m not going to let her get her way easily. Compared to that����


    Ashe and Sonya looked at Deya, who had just revealed herplicated background in the recent memory quiz. A deity among men, an Incarnation of the Gospel, a family with faces all alike�� It was clear her personal story was filled with intriguing twists.


    Deya hesitated, ��I����


    ��If you haven��t decided yet, tell us next time we meet,�� Ashe said, looking around at the withered flowers and trees. ��I don��t want to hear only half before we��re forced out of the Virtual Realm.��


    ��Thank you.�� Deya nodded gratefully. Her mind was still in disarray, having never expected her secrets toe out in this way. Moreover, this was the first time she had heard about being the ��Incarnation of the Gospel,�� but this revtion exined many mysteries.


    ��So����


    Ashe fell silent.


    The other two didn��t speak either.


    They knew what the others were thinking.


    And they knew that the others knew what they were thinking.


    Thus, no one wanted to be the first to bring up a new topic.


    Until the golden light in the sky crumbled into chaos, and the three of them were about to be a brand new still life painting, Deya suddenly said, ��If you wish, I can skiping to the Virtual Realm once in a while����


    The Witch was instantly pinned to the ground by the Swordswoman.


    ��If you dare miss out, I��ll kill you,�� the rustic girl said in a calm tone that sounded almost like a joke.


    Seeing the undisguised Killing Intent in the Swordswoman��s eyes, Deya quickly nodded like a pecking chicken.


    ��


    In the ck and white Static Domain, Danzel sat atop an Octo-eye Spider, a ball of Starlight emerging in the palm of her right hand.


    This was her mission target, the trophy she had to obtain by any means necessary, even if it meant luring and killing the legendarymander of the Star Hall, ido��the ��Incarnation of the Stars.��


    Danzel looked at the ball of Starlight and closed her hand over it.


    Snap.


    A distant and dense cracking sound followed, as if Danzel was not merely crushing the Starlight in her hand, but countless stars themselves.


    ��The stars are extinguished; Star Hall��s totalbat power has decreased by 13%.�� Danzel lowered her eyelids, ��Next, all we need to do is take back the secret. At the next grand sealing of the six nations, Star Hall is destined to fall.��

 Chapter 320: A Young Girls Embarrassment

    Chapter 320: A Young Girls Embarrassment


    The harrowing and bizarre adventure that unfolded throughout the night finally came to an end.


    Consciousness returned from the Virtual Realm, and Sonya��s Soul revived within the young girl��s body. She opened her eyes and looked around the small Meditation Room, feeling an odd sense of unfamiliar familiarity.


    It seemed as if thest time she returned to reality was a story from a previous lifetime.


    Of course, that��s a rather poetic way to put it. If one were to describe it inly, Sonya felt as if she had taken a long nap, waking to find the sky a faint blue, unable to discern whether it was early morning orte evening��the world ambiguous like a dream.


    However, when Sonya stepped out of the Meditation Tower, seeing the light of three Radiant Stars dancing among the dust particles, and hearing the innocent golden notes softly singing in her ears, her syndrome of the Virtual Realm waspletely cured.


    This syndrome, typically found in Sanctuary Sorcerers, arises when a Sorcerer��s time in the Virtual Realm exceeds that in reality, causing a reversal in the perception of ��reality�� and ��illusion.�� Over time, this can lead to a confusion between reality and the Virtual Realm, and in severe cases, even lead to mistaking real people for monsters to attack.


    The remedy is simple��reduce the time spent in the Virtual Realm.


    This is why universities have established Meditation Towers. Not only do they greatly benefit Sorcerers in their Exploration in Virtual Realm, but they also help in monitoring the Virtual Realm online time of Sorcerers. If they notice a Sorcerer nearing the addiction threshold, they take drastic measures to force them to socialize��arranging blind dates or dance parties to remind them that reality is harsher than the Virtual Realm.


    For someone with mild symptoms like Sonya, a bit of sunlight was sufficient.In fact, this journey into the Virtual Realm wasn��t longer than previous ones, but the experience in the cabin was like a dollop of cream forcefully stuffed into Sonya��s simple slice-of-bread life. Although the slice of bread remained a slice, with the addition of the cream, it was on its way to bing a sandwich.


    Now, recalling the events that took ce in the cabin felt like recalling a clear yet distant dream, ethereal as a bubble ready to burst at a touch.


    Sonya groggily made her way back to the dormitory, identally bumping into Engulite who was preparing for her morning run as she opened the door. Caught off guard, she couldn��t outmaneuver the Swordsmanship enthusiast, and instead found herself knocked to the concrete floor.


    This was no Virtual Realm��falling on concrete was painfully real.


    Watching the president of the Stretching ws Club rub her sore spot, Engulite couldn��t help butugh, reaching out to help her up: ��Is this the first time I��ve actually managed to hurt you?��


    Sonya��s Battle prowess needs no further mention, but what truly astonishes is her seemingly innate ability to perceive the Cirction of everything around her, tracking iing attacks whether she sees them or not. Unless overwhelmed by sheer speed, strength, or other factors leaving her no room to dodge or defend, she could always counter stealth attacks with her exceptional insight and reflexes.


    Having sparred with Sonya so many times, Engulite had never managed to best her, let alone injure her.


    Aside from Battle scenarios, Sonya was always on high alert. Although her rtionship with her roommates had improved recently, just a month ago they were practically at war. Lois, who wouldn��t resort to tactics like spreading thumbtacks or wetting clothes anymore��having triedst semester only to have Sonya turn the situation into a campus-wide spectacle. Plus, as apetitor capable of earning a Schrship, Sonya��s academic prowess was well recognized, prompting Swordflower College to severely reprimand Lois. Nevertheless, Lois never ceased her covert attempts to embarrass the rustic girl, seizing every opportunity to make her look foolish.


    In theory, with her financial resources and social connections, Lois should have been able to dominate Sonya, making it clear who was in charge of the dormitory.


    However, the oue was always Sonyaing out on top, leaving Lois bullied to the point of hiding in the Restroom, seeking advice on anonymous online forums, only to be humiliated a second time by replies from the ��president of the Stretching ws Club.��


    Back then, Sonya wasn��t showcasing any extraordinary Talent in Swordsmanship; she was just a in rustic girl, a diligent student who consistently used the rules to suppress the local elite, relying on what seemed like her miraculous automatic insight.


    Seeing Sonya so dazed today, much like Adelle, was a first for Engulite.


    Sonya seemed not to hear Engulite��s teasing as she returned to her seat, neither reading nor browsing forums. Instead, she just crossed her legs and stared nkly at the wall adorned with a poster of Drose.


    At this time, Lois had already gotten up and was reading. Noting that Sonya did not greet her upon returning, she silently decided that the next time she came back to the dormitory, she would not greet the rustic girl either.


    Soon after, the rm of Adelle, the Swordswoman with the pink hair, went off. She yawned, got out of bed, washed her face, brushed her teeth, and took a hot shower to wake up. Then she returned to her seat to blow-dry her hair, followed by her daily skincare routine and applying a simple, light makeup.


    Apart from Engulite, Adelle spent the least effort on her makeup in the dormitory. However, she was the type who could afford to indulge herself. She usually indulged in good food and drink, binge-watched shows all night, andy in bed without exercising��her muscles barely worked except when she needed the restroom. Yet, she managed to maintain her wealthy and beautiful status with skin as soft as vani ice cream.


    It was only inparison with Sonya and Lois that Adelle seemed unremarkable. If she were ced in the entire Water Department of Swordflower�� well, she would still be unremarkable, as the Water Department of Swordflower was famously filled with beauties.


    While others had to rely on makeup and quality sleep to keep up, Adelle��s case of squandering her natural gifts was iparable. If she took her appearance seriously, even if she couldn��t catch up with Sonya and Lois, the two powerhouses in their arms race, she could at least rank fifth in the ��Top Four Beauties of Swordflower�� Ranking List.


    ��Is today the History and Public Affairs ss?��


    ��Yes, today we should be covering thest unit of the semester, the Stars noble system and the birth of the Noble Act.��


    ��Ugh, I hate History ss so much. As long as the toilet works, why do we need to learn the history of its creation?��


    ����Your statement unexpectedly shows quite a bit of political awareness.��


    Once Adelle was ready for ss, she noticed that Sonya was still sitting motionless in her chair. She nudged the rustic girl, ��Time for ss! Or are you nning to exercise the Chief��s privilege to skip sses openly today?��


    ��A Chief skipping ss isn��t really skipping,�� Lois said indifferently. ��How could the Chief make a mistake? She must have submitted a Leave Request to the Professor, who probably lost it. If the Professor notices the Chief is absent, he should conscientiously issue a new Leave Request for her.��


    ��Damn, is this the power thates with dominating the top of the academy?�� Adelle gritted her teeth. ��How can I make the Professor realize that I��m Sonya��sckey, and offending me is offending Chief Sonya?��


    ��Ah, is it time for ss?�� Sonya, as if awakening from a dream, casually picked up her bag, ready to follow them to ss.


    However, neither of them moved, making Sonya look at them curiously, ��Why aren��t we going?��


    Adelle pointed at Sonya��s Sword bag, ��Are you nning to smash the history Professor��s head so he won��t have a chance to check our homework? Sonya, my savior!��


    Only then did Sonya realize she had mistakenly grabbed her Sword bag and quickly switched it for her backpack.


    As they walked out of the dormitory, Lois kept ncing at Sonya, and soon Adelle noticed Sonya��s oddity too. ��Miss Red-haired Swordswoman, your bare-faced look today�� seems a bit too bare, doesn��t it?��


    Adelle pushed Lois next to Sonya, then pulled out a handheld mirror topare the two.


    At first nce, Sonya and Lois seemed simr, both showcasing the beauty of bare faces. However, upon closer inspection, many differences became apparent: Lois��s lips were primed and glossy, while Sonya��s were just naturally colored; Lois��s eyes, with curledshes and a base, appeared deeply set and dimensional, whereas Sonya��sshes were loose; Lois��s skin, covered with a bare-face cream, was genuinely bright and glowing, unlike Sonya��scking that ��sparkling�� effect; Lois even had a beauty mark at the corner of her eye, perfectly embodying the pure desire of bare-face makeup, while Sonya clearly had none.


    These differences were noticeable at a nce, not to mention finer details like pores, all pointing to one conclusion��Sonya had left the dorm without any makeup.


    For Sonya, it was an unimaginable situation. Both she and Lois were appearance enthusiasts who believed in ��no makeup = nudity��; they would rather miss ss thanpromise their immacte appearance. Sometimes, Sonya would even feign rushing to the ssroom in a disheveled state, making others believe she woke up looking effortlessly beautiful, unaware that this hurried beauty was a meticulously crafted facade.


    Adelle, whose makeup could be done quickly in five minutes, often had traces of haste that were easily noticeable.


    ��Is there no one left in the College that you care about?�� Adelle spected.


    ��Did something happen in the Virtual Realm?�� Lois, more on the mark, realized that Sonya had been acting strange since returning from the Virtual Realm. ��If you��re feeling upset, maybe you shouldn��t go to ss.��


    Sonya shook her head without saying anything and did not n to return to the dormitory; she headed straight for the ssroom. Her two roommates exchanged nces and walked alongside her.


    The history lecture was arge ss held in the biggest lecture hall at Swordflower College. The trio made their way to the back corner when suddenly, a mocking voice came from nearby, ��Hey, why does it smell like mud here? Let��s move somewhere else.��


    They looked over to see a few well-dressed Noble students picking up their books to leave.


    It seemed they weren��t directly targeting Sonya, but the disdain in their eyes was unmistakable.


    Swordflower College strictly enforced rules against overt bullying and insults, but this type of sarcastic remark fell outside their jurisdiction. Sonya��s humble origins were no secret, and those who were hostile towards her, unable to criticize her academic performance, naturally attacked her immutable ws.


    Adelle could almost predict how Sonya would retaliate, with wittyebacks like, ��Wow, it stinks. Who��s spouting nonsense this early?�� or ��True to Swordflower College, even the rear ends here can talk,�� or ��With such a keen nose, ever considered a career as a police dog?�� In online forums, Sonya was a force to be reckoned with; anyone who tried to mock her would end up cursing out of frustration and getting themselves banned.


    However, Sonya remained silent.


    She didn��t even retort; instead, she directly took a seat where the Noble students had just vacated. After a moment, she noticed the Nobles were still standing nearby. She slightly nodded her head and said ��thank you�� as if they had intentionally given up their seats for her.


    This seemingly indifferent attitude infuriated the Noble students, turning their faces red and then pale. Unable to utter a word and under the mocking gaze of those around, they fled like a dog with its tail between its legs.


    It wouldn��t be long before the School Forum was buzzing with rumors that ��Noble students voluntarily gave up their seats to the Red-haired Swordswoman,�� leading everyone to believe that Sonya had reached a Realm where she could disdain to argue with trash yet still make them bow their heads without a fight.


    Yet Lois and Adelle knew that wasn��t the case.


    Sonya hadn��t heard their provocations at all; she was still lost in her own Kingdom of thoughts.


    This left the two girls wondering what could possibly upy Sonya��s mind sopletely that she couldn��t spare even a little attention for reality?


    ��


    ��Am I still your lover?��


    ��Let��s break up.��


    ��We have amnesia; we need to cultivate our feelings again~��


    ��Funny, I just happen to like bad guys!��


    ��So you don��t want to get back together with me, right?��


    It was as if a storm was raging in Sonya��s mind, with countless memories raining down like Shot Bullets, creating rhythmic ripples in the sea of her heart. Each wave reflected her coy demeanor from the previous night, and each ssh revealed the yful affection in her eyes.


    ��Why did I say those things to the Observer after losing my memory?! Ahhh, I want to die, I want to be drowned in Gold Coins, I wish the Observer would trip and smash his head open right now����


    Amid her embarrassment, the young girl was overwhelmed.

 Chapter 321: Oh, How Foolish I Am

    Chapter 321: Oh, How Foolish I Am


    ��Hey, how��s the air back there? The air up front is quite clear, especially since I��m the only one in the first three rows. But that��s actually quite alright. If you students were passionate about the history lessons of the past, I might start worrying about the future of the Stars�� But if you don��t spend a little time on the past, then you should start worrying about your future grades.��


    ��Turn to page 173 of your textbook. In the year 871, the court Prime Minister, ido Usgael, drafted the Noble Act, and became the first noble to be granted the Blessing of Stars by the Empress. The content of the Noble Act is����


    The history Professor is not a stern old schr, but rather a quite humorous and stylish old man. However, his strong personal style cannot salvage the dull content of the lectures, unless he cracks a few Duke jokes or minister anecdotes, otherwise the ssroom atmosphere would remain between a sleepy haze and a muddled daze.


    For Sonya, the only benefit of attending the ss was being able to slowly untangle the messy threads of her mind. This was a habit she had developed after starting university, as her other spare time was packed too full, and those freely allocable time resources were all invested in herself.


    More importantly, Gales was not her destination. If she stayed alone in a ce with no one around, she would easily be crushed by the boring pressure, and fall into a state of self-pity. After trying once to secretly cry in bed, the rustic girl forced herself to stay as much as possible within sight of others, not allowing herself to run off to a corner to lick her wounds like a defeated dog.


    Tears that could not arouse others�� sympathy and affection were utterly worthless.


    Thus, the only ces she could use to daydream and think about life were the dull general education sses. After all, as long as she studied a bit for the finals, she could easily pass these sses, so she could use the ss time to freely contemte her gains and losses.


    Who had offended her, who had designs on her, whom she should try to please, whom she should target�� Conveniently, general education sses wererge lectures, allowing Sonya to survey around and lock onto her targets.


    Recently, Sonya found a new form of entertainment during ss��monitoring online forums to see if any students from noble families were discussing her. If she found any, she would ��execute�� them on the spot by calling them out, and then observe the reactions of the surrounding students. Quite a few peers who were meek in person but bold online calling her a ��rustic girl�� had been caught this way.When in a good mood, Sonya would approach these students after ss, tap them on the shoulder, and call out their forum nicknames, causing them significant emotional distress in the moment. When she was feeling less generous, Sonya would secretly dig up personal details about them and then, posing as a Sorcerer from the Prophecy Faction on the forums, she urately revealed embarrassing personal details about these students. She would predict things like ��you will definitely be cheated on,�� ��your family will fall,�� or ��the skincare products you use will definitely ruin your face,�� inflictingsting psychological damage.


    Both scenarios were tremendously fun for her. When Adelle learned about this game, she too eagerly joined in as a ��ssroom police officer.�� Anyone who dared to mock the Swordswoman on the forums instead of paying attention in ss would face their swift justice!


    So, when Adelle saw Sonya suddenly start writing intently in her notebook��her expression alternating between tension, smiles, and anger��she assumed Sonya had hooked a big fish.


    Who was lucky enough to be the day��s target for the president of the Stretching ws Club?


    Thinking this, Adelle leaned over to see what damning information Sonya was recording, but today, the usually oblivious Sonya was quick as a protective mother wolf, snapping her notebook shut in an instant.


    Keeping it all to herself?


    Adelle turned her gaze away, pretending to focus on the Noble Act, but her mind was still on Sonya��s notebook.


    Because she had glimpsed a line:


    ��Let��s go back together and torment each other again.��


    The vibe of that scoundrel was as tant as the fountain at the school entrance, and Adelle felt sure Sonya must have caught some yboy in her ws, ready to toy with him.


    Indeed, Adelle��s guess was not wrong; Sonya was indeed up to just that.


    After finally getting over the humiliation of her amnesia, Sonya quickly realized a problem��the Observer, given their nature, would definitely cling to this incident. They would remember every word she uttered during her amnesia and abruptly bring it up during a Battle, distracting her and putting her in danger. Just as she was about to falter, the Observer would dramatically step in to save her��


    Thinking about this plot development made the rustic girl both embarrassed and angry. To avoid such an awkward situation, Sonya also needed to gather some leverage on the Observer to create a ��deterrence of amnesia,�� ensuring that no one would bring up her amnesic moments casually!


    Thus, Sonya spent a good half hour documenting every phrase the Observer had said during their amnesia, then she selected the ��Top Ten Most Affectionate Phrases,�� ��Five Famous Quotes on Infidelity,�� and ��One Shameless Statement Worth Ten Thousand Words.��


    Observer, do you still have enough ammunition?


    Sonya could even imagine the scene: just as the Observer was about to mock her, she would cough and casually retort, ��Or perhaps in a more direct manner, without any ambiguity, opening my heartpletely��currently, I����


    Thud!


    The history Professor adjusted his sses as the red-faced Sonya nonchntly pointed at the cracked desk surface: ��There was a mosquito.��


    The Professor sighed with relief: ��You scared me! I thought my lecture was so unbearable that it drove a student to smash the desk.��


    After ss, Sonya, satisfied, packed up her notebook. Just as she was about to leave, she suddenly remembered something and said to Lois and Adelle, ��Oh, by the way, I died again in the Virtual Realm, and it was because I identally wandered into the Static Domain. Gosh, I��m so silly.��


    Watching Sonya yfully tap her own head, her roommates began to wonder if they had somehow misheard ��I��m in love�� as ��I died in the Virtual Realm,�� because that would be really hard to exin her cheerful demeanor.


    They understood what Sonya meant��spread the word, our great Chief, the Red-haired Swordswoman, has actually died twice in the Virtual Realm this month!


    This would certainly provide a perfect target for the ��Anti-Swordswoman League,�� but this was exactly what Sonya had hoped for. With the forum��s atmosphere now, the ��Anti-Swordswoman League�� had already crumbled. Anyone daring to mock Sonya would be overwhelmed by a barrage of counterattacks, and if this continued, the Noble students who disliked the Swordswoman might just keep their heads down.


    However, Sonya��s uing Songstress album was about to be released, and it was a prime time to stir up some heat. The ��Anti-Swordswoman League,�� like tap water, naturally needed to be utilized frequently, throwing out bait now and then to keep their enthusiasm alive. Sonya anticipated that when her album was released, it would surely spark numerous me wars, followed by a skyrocketing in sales.


    Sonya wasn��t afraid that such ��scandals�� would impact her, especially since the public would soon learn that in just one month in the Virtual Realm, Sonya had gone from an Apprentice Sorcerer to a Two Wings Sorcerer.


    This was also the promotional strategy of the Stretching ws Club (the name unanimously approved by supporters after seeing the photos Adelle took): a genius doesn��t need to promote her genius, just her ws. Attracting the public��s attention with her ws allows them to discover the Swordswoman��s genius on their own.


    Adelle watched Sonya bounce out of the ssroom and sighed, ��She was so distracted before ss, but after, it��s like she ate a strawberry sundae, exuding a blissful aroma of cream�� Women are really hard to understand.��


    ��She looks���� Lois said uncertainly, ��like she might be in love?��


    ��However,�� Adelle pondered, ��the only people she interacts with are us. And that time I stood naked in front of her, she showed no impulse at all, which shows she doesn��t have any particr desire for women����


    ��So there��s only one conclusion.��


    Lois looked at Adelle, and Adelle looked at Lois��s chest.


    ��I��ve had my suspicions before,�� Adelle said seriously. ��Lois, are you actually a man?��


    Lois did not respond, just looked at her calmly. Adelle then realized her joke might have gone too far and mimicked Sonya by yfully tapping her own head, ��Hey, just kidding!��


    ��Adelle����


    ��I��m now the high-ranking manager of the Stretching ws Club. Speak politely, don��t bully me.��


    ��Even if I were a man,�� Lois said with a chill in her gaze, ��I wouldn��t choose you as a paramour.��


    Adelle blinked, her eyes beginning to moisten.


    Her heart was falling, continuously plummeting.


    ��I even thought about marrying you if I were a man�� Don��t talk to me anymore!��


    As Adelle turned and ran off in tears, Lois remained expressionless: ��There seems to be a quiz next period in the Water Department ss���� Adelle��s steps halted.


    Lois strode out, with Adelle trailing behind, her eyes fixed on Lois��s backside as if cursing it to shrink.


    However, Lois suddenly stopped, causing Adelle to bump into her.


    ��What��s wrong?��


    It wasn��t just Lois; other students also paused in the hallway, looking out the windows at the sky with puzzled expressions.


    Adelle looked up.


    Reflected in her eyes was the shadow of the stars.

 Chapter 322: Starsfall

    Chapter 322: Starsfall


    Harvest Orchard.


    Today, the one weing Sonya was, of course, the Advanced member of the Stretch Paw Club, Mifa.


    After selling off her recent Virtual Realm harvests, Sonya suddenly fell silent.


    Mifa wasn��t in a hurry, quietly enjoying the time they spent alone together.


    After a long while, Sonya let out a soft sigh and said, ��I want to purchase the ��Heart Pen�� Miracle�� Are there any promotions or discounts right now?��


    Although Mifa really wanted to give the sword Princess a freebie, she didn��t have the authority: ��No, you can only buy it for the original price of 15 gold coins. Maybe you could wait until the College League starts; the school usually offers promotions then����


    ��Then I��ll buy it at the original price,�� Sonya sighed, looking reluctant.


    Just as Mifa was preparing the Artifact Spirit, they suddenly heard a series of continuous ��pop�� sounds.


    It was as if something was cracking open.Sonya turned her head and saw a fruit falling from a tree behind them, its transparent crystal shell shattering with a pop. The spell spirit inside, drowsily opening its eyes, suddenly turned into a mist and dissipated.


    It wasn��t the first, nor thest.


    Pop, pop, pop.


    One spell spirit fruit after another fell, one after another shattered and dissipated.


    Although the number of fallen fruits was notrge, this situation clearly exceeded the young woman��s tolerance �C this was, after all, the Harvest Orchard of Swordflower College, one of the top Spirit Trading Centers in Gxia. The fruit trees were even a Miracle of a legendary sorcerer. How could such a spell spirit exodus suddenly ur?


    But soon, they wouldn��t care about this little matter.


    Because they found themselves covered by a giant shadow.


    As mentioned earlier, Harvest Orchard had all-ss outer walls, allowing one hundred percent of external light to pass through. So, the girls looked up and faced the sky.


    The stars were falling.


    Thousands upon thousands of stars were falling, including the three luminous stars everyone recognized, the brightest Lunar Star of the night, and the seventy-two constetions that the young women adored.


    But they didn��tpletely fall.


    Because the ��Sky�� stopped them.


    They were like trapped balls, pockmarking the sky above with craters. The sky seemed like an extremely stic membrane, blocking all the falling stars; it was as if a giant bubble enveloped the entire world.


    Countless questions floated up in the spectator��s mind like bubbles, so dense it felt like his brain might boil over.


    There was nomotion, no chaos, no screams.


    Gxia, Abacuray, Magi, Mate, Mis, Aifeng�� the entire Stars Kingdom came to a halt. Countless people looked up at the sky, experiencing a paradigm shift.


    Then��


    Pop.


    Perhaps there was this sound, perhaps there wasn��t, but everyer believed there was.


    Because there is always a sound when the lights go out.


    And when the sky turns off, how could there not be?


    At that moment, all the stars extinguished, taking away all light, plunging the world into darkness, and stifling the screams of all beings in their throats.


    But this darkness didn��tst even a second before the people of Gxia saw a glimmer of blue light in the darkness.


    It was a female sorcerer in a hooded robe, deep blue runes swirling around her, each step she took causing ripples in the air.


    Any knowledgeable member of the nobility would recognize her as a clergy member who appeared during festivals.


    She walked on a dark staircase, guiding the gaze of millions, step by step, towards the sky.


    When she reached a certain tform, she knelt down, hands sped in prayer. The deep blue of her robes ignited like mes, spreading across the darkness, engulfing all of Gxia, and eventually the entire Stars Kingdom.


    Sonya didn��t escape it either. The blue me adhered to her, forming an armor-like shape. Looking around, she noticed that most people��s blue mes were chaotic, not yet forming describable shapes; only a few had distinct shapes, which looked familiar�� like the Star Swordsman and Star Archer she had seen before.


    Sonya��s blue me armor resembled both a Star Swordsman and the Starburst Warrior worn by the Observer.


    Before she could continue observing, the world underwent another dramatic change. As if responding to the burning earth, the sky began to dance. A falling star suddenly burst with a crackling deep blue light, and then the sky��s stic potential energy fully exploded, bouncing the star back into the heavens!


    Then the second, third, fourth�� the stars were like curious schoolchildren peeking through the window, now caught by the teacher, quickly returning to their seats, not daring to cause any more trouble.


    Once the luminous stars returned to their leader��s throne, the sky finally brightened.


    The morning��s luminous stars, the bright sunlight, thezy clouds, the clear blue sky�� the brief ckout and the falling stars seemed like a grand illusion.


    But when Sonya turned to look east, she saw a massive White Great Tower, hundreds of meters high, that wasn��t there before but suddenly appeared. The top of the tower corresponded with the spot where the female sorcerer had knelt in the darkness.


    Undoubtedly, the female sorcerer was still praying for all beings, and the White Great Tower was a celestial staircase prepared by legendary sorcerers within seconds for her ascent.


    For some reason, a term suddenly popped into Sonya��s mind:


    ��Star Prayer.��


    ��Mifa.��


    ��Ah?�� The working student was still in the process of reconstructing her worldview.


    ��Do you know what that fallen spirit was?�� Sonya pointed to the shattered crystal fruit behind her.


    Although a bit puzzled, Mifa naturally wouldn��t refuse Sonya��s inquiry. She quickly checked and said, ��That was the two-wings spirit ��Meteor��.��


    ��Meteor? Which sect does it belong to?��


    ��The Light Sect, but����


    ��But what?��


    ��The way Meteor manifests isn��t as light but as a physical entity,�� Mifa said, looking at the description. ��But because Meteors look simr to starlight, and ��starlight�� belongs to the Light Sect, Meteor is also ssified under the Light Sect.��


    Not all spirits have clear sect ssifications. Ultimately, the Spellcasting Sect is just abel that sorcerers arbitrarily use to categorize spirits, a ssification that has always been rtive and partial. Not to mention that many spirits exhibit traits from multiple sects, some spirits cannot be ssified into any sect at all, such as the Observer��s Substitute spirit.


    Spirits came first, then the Spellcasting Sect. The construction of theoretical systems has alwaysgged behind practice, and sometimes itgs far behind��such as with the Prophecy Sect and the Fate Sect. From ancient times to the present, all sorcerers have believed these two sects must exist, and they have discovered rted spirits, but they have never been able to construct aplete systemic framework.


    Sonya pondered, ��So, Meteor should belong to the ��Star�� sect, right?��


    ��There isn��t a Star sect yet,�� Mifa said with augh. ��Stars are too far away; how could sorcerers utilize them?��


    Sonya nced up at the sky.


    ��Doesn��t seem that far away,�� she murmured.


    Starsfall.


    Star Prayer.


    The shattered Star spirit.


    The Incarnation of the Stars taken by the heroic soul.


    The Secret Incarnation obtained by the Observer.


    No wonder the heroic soulmander didn��t dare kill the Observer��


    No wonder she preferred to use the troublesome method of a Pact to ensure she could sessfully take the Observer��s soul summoning spirit��


    So, the so-called Incarnation is��


    Suddenly, Sonya felt a wave of nausea, and everything in her vision began to restructure itself.


    Mifa opened the chamber of her heart, sunlight fragmented into blocks, fruit trees twisted into tombstones stacked with words, the sky turned into a ck deep-sea, and the luminous stars sprouted countless eyes and mouths. From their bodies extended bright thin lines upward, like bait falling into the sea��


    But when she blinked, the world returned to its original state, with no changes at all.


    Indeed, the world hadn��t changed.


    What changed was Sonya��s perception.


    She knew very well the reason for this alteration. Being with the Observer, this conflicted insect, made it too easy to encounter such things.


    When the world once again shed its disguise, revealing its multicolored darkness, Sonya received a response from the Virtual Realm through her perception��


    ��Conceptual Toxin.��

 Chapter 323: The Con Artists Psychological Therapy

    Chapter 323: The Con Artists Psychological Therapy


    At 6:00 AM Gospel time, in the Senhaeser District of the city on the second level in Vamora, Igor opened his eyes from inside the wardrobe.


    He pushed the wardrobe door open and emerged. On the bed was a human-shaped lump, which he had fashioned using pillows, nkets, clothes, and a bit of imagination to create an ��Igor dummy.��


    Though it wasn��t a spirit or a miracle, this little trick had saved his life many times. If he left a ��Good Night�� note on the bed, it would make any midnight intruder think that the con artist had foreseen their arrival and had already escaped through some unknown means. Cursing under their breath, they would then rush to track Igor��s escape route, while the real Igor, hiding elsewhere, could seize the opportunity to flee.


    After all, Igor was just a con artist, not omniscient. How could he foresee every danger? But this didn��t stop him from ying the role of someone who always had a n, making multiple preparations in daily interactions to nt seeds of doubt in others�� minds.


    What truly makes a deception real isn��t the con artist��s words but your own imagination.


    It��s human nature to exin the world. When you��recking information, you��ll subconsciously use your imagination to fill in the gaps, which is why conspiracy theories thrive and rumors spread faster than the truth.


    People always believe what they want to believe.


    Even though the world itself is objective, everyone��s world is subjective. In the past, mental sorcerers could even establish religions, bing the ��gods�� in the subjective worlds of countless followers.


    Although Igor had little interest in this upper-tier awakening profession of con artist, making himself a ��strategic mastermind who can always foresee your next move�� in the eyes of certain people was as easy as putting on makeup for him.On his first night in this unfamiliar city, Igor began his preparations. When others discovered the ��Igor dummy�� on the bed, they would think the real Igor had already left, never suspecting that this was a nightly trap. The weak, immobile, and oblivious con artist was hiding right next to them in the wardrobe.


    This is the con artist��s way of psychological deception.


    Even when giving his all, he had to make it look effortless.


    Carefully prepared gifts should be given nonchntly.


    In this world, whoever gets nted with the seed first loses.


    As usual, Igor had to take a bath after waking up every day. Fortunately, the suite had a bathtub, and it was even a steam massage tub.


    In fact, the quality of this suite was much better than the employee dormitory provided by Annan. It seemed that Miss Annan was indeed a rich second-generation entrepreneur who would have to fall back on inheriting billions if she failed��such plots were quitemon in Gospel TV dramas. Igor believed the root cause was that the luxury economy and consumerism in the Gospel Kingdom were not developed enough, so parents could still save money.


    In their Blood Moon Kingdom, even capitalists could live paycheck to paycheck. Any life extension package from the Institute could bankrupt the richest person on the spot. The Gospel Kingdom simply didn��t have enough freedom.


    After initially washing his body, Igor tested the water temperature in the tub with his toes. He dipped his lower legs, bent his knees to maintain bnce, and let the water level rise past his chest, intimately grazing his corbone.


    Warm currents seeped through his pores into his cells, quickly rxing the stiff body that had spent the night in the wardrobe. The tension in his soul, having just returned from the Virtual Realm, also began to ease. Thezy mist massaged the con artist��s aching mind.


    In the Blood Moon Kingdom, most people had psychological issues, and Igor was no exception. People as smart as him were the ones who felt the immense, heavy gravity of reality the most, their souls heavy with anxiety every moment.


    Igor knew he was ill, but he couldn��t save himself. The better someone was at swimming, the more likely they were to drown in the deep sea.


    Over time, perhaps one day he would suddenly understand ��the meaning of life.�� On a drizzly, overcast day, he would wear his finest clothes, find everyone who knew him, and deceive them onest time��erase their memories of him. When no one in the world remembered him, Igor Bukin would disappearpletely from people��s sight, leaving only a shadow of himself in the Virtual Realm.


    However, the Igor who was once destined to face destruction alone developed a habit of taking baths to clear his mind after entering prison. The tense strings of his mind were thus given a chance to rest, and his psychological issues were cured.


    It was Shattered Lake Prison that saved him. For Blood Moon people, the only way out was indeed going to prison.


    It��s worth mentioning that before bathing with Ashe, Harvey, and others a few days ago, Igor would always take a bath first. After all, rxing with two artiodactyls wasn��t very effective.


    Knock, knock! Knock, knock! Knock, knock!


    Just as Igor was about to slip into a state of mindlessness, someone knocked on the door.


    This familiar triple knock��though the person hadn��t even taken off their pants yet, the con artist already knew what kind of nonsense they would spout.


    Igor decided to remain silent, hoping the person would give up and leave. However, after a few seconds, he heard the precise sound of gears turning and the clinking of alloy parts disengaging��the door opened.


    m!


    The bathroom��s ss door was pushed open, and the steam eagerly wrapped around the visitor.


    ��You scared me. I thought you had escaped through the toilet.��


    Igor let out a long sigh. ��First of all, this isn��t our home. Second, how did you get in here?��


    ��I told the maid here that no one answered the door, and you might have died in the Virtual Realm, with a part of your soul��s head bitten off by a de Fish Dragon, turning you into a vegetative state. So she let me in to check if you had peed yourself.��


    Ashe sat on a small stool. ��Such feudal corruption, having maids and all. This family system is indeed the cancer of civilization, but I must say, the maid outfits are pretty cute.��


    ��Aren��t we under house arrest and not allowed to leave our rooms?��


    ��I don��t know. I woke up and tried the door, found the restrictions lifted. Maybe Miss Annan sweet-talked her mother while we weren��t herest night?��


    ��Let��s skip the minor details,�� Igor said, staring at Ashe. ��Haven��t you noticed that I��m taking a bath?��


    Ashe blinked and then came to a sudden realization. He got up to close the ss door, then sat back on the stool. ��Sorry, forgot to close the door.��


    ��You also forgot to shut yourself out.�� Igor sshed water on his face, giving up entirely on entering a mindless state and returning to business mode. ��Go ahead, what do you want from me?��


    ��Can��t I juste to chat with you? Do I have to need something toe see you?��


    ��Of course not. You��re the kind of person who would bother me even while I��m bathing.�� The con artist smirked. ��If we put it in terms of borrowing money, at least others wait until they��ve borrowed before getting cocky. You, on the other hand, are already cocky before even borrowing a dime.��


    ��I do have something I need your advice on,�� Ashe said, scratching his head. ��After all, you seem quite experienced.��


    ��You��reing to consult a con artist?�� Igor raised an eyebrow. ��A disciple seekingfort from a priest would make more sense.��


    ��When you��re responsible for other people��s lives, and every move you make could cause those who trust you to die, do you feel afraid?��


    ����If this psychological pressurees from our trust in you during the prison break, your nerves must be long enough to wrap around the Time Continent.��


    ��No, during the prison break, I never felt responsible for you all.�� Ashe shook his head. ��Because you never trusted me, and I never trusted you. We trusted our own judgments and were responsible for ourselves.��


    ��What I��m saying is, when others unconditionally trust you and are willing to stake their lives as chips on you, do you feel anything special when you ce your bet?��


    The con artist squinted his eyes. ��If they choose to trust me, it means they��ve made their own judgment. I don��t need to����


    ��Do you really not need to?�� Ashe interrupted, his gaze cutting through the steam as he sought the truth in the con artist��s eyes. ��If I were to ce my life in your hands, could you bet without any hesitation?��


    The steam rose slowly, cloaking the silence.


    ��I understand now.�� Igor sshed his face with water. ��You��re not here for advice; you��re here forfort.��


    Bullseye.


    When facing off against Danzel, Ashe could make rational judgments, bravely face death, and be a hero who would rather die than surrender. But after leaving the Virtual Realm and returning to the cold reality, Ashe realized what he had done��he had ced the lives of both the Witch and the Sword Princess on the gambling table.


    Not to mention that he never considered them his possessions; long ago, the sword Princess had said that even if Ashe died, she could continue living in her own world. The operators didn��t exist dependent on Ashe; they had their own joys and sorrows, their own parents and friends, and their own lives.


    Simrly, if an operator died, it would probably be a true death. Their avatar would fade to grey entirely, leaving only a name in the handbook.


    Whether during the prison break or escaping Blood Moon, when it came time to bet his own life, Ashe had never felt any psychological pressure.


    But this time, after betting on the Witch and the sword Princess as well, he suddenly felt scared.


    He was afraid they would die, and even more afraid that he would survive while others died.


    They were still a long way from the three wings Sanctuary, but during this period, every round at the Spider Tower, they had to enter the Virtual Realm and engage in a life-and-death race with the heroic soul legion.


    Though they had a vehicle, though they could escape, they might manage it once, twice, three times, ten times��but could they escape a hundred times?


    If they failed once, if they made one mistake, if fate tripped them up even slightly��


    Ashe closed his eyes, as if he could see the scene of them being torn apart.


    Moreover, this was no longer a problem that could be solved by Ashe��s death alone.


    Even if Ashe died first, the pacts with the sword Princess and the Witch would still remain. Unless they reached higher levels of the Virtual Realm, they would still be running for their lives in it��instead of settling for less, the Empress��s heroic soul seemed more like the type to pursue to the very end.


    Though the Witch and the sword Princess had no objections, and Ashe��s response at the time was indeed the most correct one.


    But, but��


    He was scared.


    Suddenly, Ashe remembered his penultimate question and couldn��t help but smile wryly.


    Sacrificing the world and billions of lives, bearing a thousand-year-old wish to save the world�� He couldn��t even bring himself to say, ��Entrust your lives to me,�� with a clear conscience now.


    The rapidly expanding psychological burden soon left him gasping for air. In the past, Ashe would have chosen to bear this pain of trust alone, pretending nothing was wrong. After all, that��s what he had been taught since childhood��toin would only worry others, and no one wants to swallow your tears.


    It was Freya who changed him. That brief cohabitation showed Ashe how an ordinary person could survive in such a cruel society like the Blood Moon Kingdom. The most important lesson he learned was: if you��re sick, you need to get treatment.


    Seeking a psychologist wasn��t shameful; perhaps this was the Blood Moon Kingdom��s greatest contribution to civilization.


    Though there were no psychologists around, seeking out the Con Artist was almost the same. After all, there was no fundamental difference betweenfort and deception.


    ��Don��t be afraid. They entrusted their lives to you because they trust your judgment. Even if you make a mistake, they won��t me you because you tried your best. This world doesn��t criticize those who exhaust themselves; the unfairness of fate shouldn��t be your burden�� Is that what you want me to say?��


    Ashe looked up, and then his cor was suddenly grabbed by a wet hand, pulling him close to the Con Artist��s face.


    ��You��re willing to let a Con Artist deceive you rather than face reality yourself,�� Igor��s eyes were full of disdain. ��Even among my clients, you are at the lowest level.��


    With a push, Igor sent Ashe sprawling to the ground.


    ��Go get some candy from Harvey; that��s the real cure for you.�� Igor didn��t look at him. ��I��m a top-tier Con Artist; I don��t deal with such rotten clients.��


    Ashe sighed. ��Isn��t that a bit harsh?��


    ��I started betting other people��s lives when I was thirteen,�� Igor said coldly. ��I��ve won a lot, but losing is reasonable too. Because of my wrong decision, a partner was caught by the ��Fire Crab��. I could only see him in the most bizarre news articles. He had be a piece of avant-garde abstract art, made with a hanger and a chair�� What do you think I felt back then?��


    ��Revenge?��


    ��No, I just hoped he received and executed my final message��to end himself before the Fire Crab found him.��


    Water dripped from Igor��s hair, merging into the bathtub and disappearing. ��This is the fate of a decision-maker. Even if you are calm enough, work hard enough, you still cannot prevent sacrifice. Not even gods can save everyone. Who do you think you are?��


    ��Enduring sacrifice, epting sacrifice, getting used to sacrifice��this is the only way. There is no second option. Do you think seekingfort from a mental sorcerer will give you the resilient heart of a decision-maker? Mental sorcerers are not enhancers; they can��t just make you stronger with a ding.��


    ��What you need is notfort, not deception, but growth.��


    The Con Artist looked at the dejected Cult Leader, but another image appeared in his mind.


    In the apocalypse, a mysterious man in a dark red trench coat, gazing down at the world alone��


    ��There is also a very simple way, as long as you are selfish enough,�� Igor said. ��Like me. If you are selfish enough to see everyone as a pawn, selfish enough to not care about anyone��s thoughts, selfish enough to be happy just for yourself, then you won��t feel the pressure of responsibility.��


    ��For us orphans of the Blood Moon, this should be an effortless advancement route, right?��


    A gleam appeared in the Cult Leader��s eyes. ��Just like you����


    ��Yes, just like me���� Igor looked at his blurry reflection in the water. ��You only need to care about yourself, value yourself, love yourself����


    ����And if I have as much decision-making experience as you, I can grow into a captain who can calmly bear the pressure of responsibility!��


    Igor blinked. Hmm?


    Ashe stood up, patting the water off his pants. ��The difference between you and me is that you already have extensive team experience, while I don��t. So, I should find ways to increase my leadership experience and be a steady decision-maker.��


    ��But how will you gain that experience?��


    ��I already have an idea,�� Ashe said. ��It was definitely right toe to you. I won��t disturb your bath any longer.��


    ��Although I don��t know what your idea is, it certainly won��t be as simple as my ��selfish advancement�� approach,�� Igor said indifferently. ��Why make things soplicated?��


    ��Because being selfish isn��t that simple,�� Ashe said, opening the bathroom door. ��If even you can��t do it, how could I possibly manage?��


    ��What do you mean I can��t do it?��


    ��You didn��t answer my question.��


    Igor was taken aback, listening to Ashe��s footsteps gradually fade away.


    ��If I entrusted my life to you, could you make a bet without a moment��s hesitation?��


    ��Seed����


    The Con Artist exhaled. Even though he had soaked for quite a while, he decided to stay a bit longer to clear his mind. Otherwise, his thoughts and ideas would be the rain and sunlight that made the seed sprout.


    Knock! Knock! Knock!


    The unfamiliar knocking made Igor uneasy.


    As expected, the bathroom door opened once again.


    ��Aunt Bukin!�� Lise stood with her hands on her hips in front of the Con Artist. ��I have something very important to discuss with you�� we need the wisdom of the Con Artist!��


    ��Did you not notice that I��m taking a bath?��


    Lise paused, suddenly realizing, and obediently closed the bathroom door.


    Igor almost wanted to summon the Gospel Book to check the blood rtion between Lise and Ashe.

 Chapter 324: At Least You Can Act Spoiled with the Substitute

    Chapter 324: At Least You Can Act Spoiled with the Substitute


    ��That��s how it is,�� Annan said. ��You��ll be under house arrest in this building for the next few days.��


    If this counts as house arrest, then the limited mobility you gave us before, confined to just one floor, should count as solitary confinement�� To save face for the youngdy, no one in the canteen voiced this sarcastic remark.


    No one knew if Annan had soughtfort from Qenna, but their activity area had indeed expanded from just the bedroom to the entire high-rise.


    It was 8:00 AM, and Annan had brought them to the canteen to discuss things over breakfast. Various Senhaeser passersby, from different races, asionally walked by. Perhaps they had already been notified, as they no longer looked at the outsiders like cockroaches but rather like clowns, which was a slight improvement.


    Breakfast was a self-service affair, with a wide variety of options. There were eighteen different ways to prepare L Fatty alone, and it was likely that the local specialty, Beauty Houttuynia, was added. Ashe almost bit his tongue when he took a bite.


    A very interesting aspect was that the concept of ��home�� in Vamora was almost non-existent or extremely expansive��this building, for example, was considered a ��home.�� It had dedicated floors for exercise, study, gaming, dining, and even working. The Senhaesers living in this building only had their own bedrooms, which they only used for sleeping and resting. For all other activities, they would go to the specific floors designed for those purposes. For instance, they all came to the canteen for meals instead of ordering takeout or cooking for themselves.


    No one had a home, but the entire building was everyone��s home. In fact, the entire Senhaeser district was your home.


    Undoubtedly, this type of living arrangement greatly conserved resources and optimally utilized space, resulting in significantlyrger bedrooms for everyone. And the cost�� well, there didn��t seem to be any downsides. At least for Ashe, who was immune to marriage, it was very appealing. He could be alone when he wanted to be, or head to the game room to find plenty of friends when he didn��t. If such an apartment had existed in his previous life, Ashe thought he could have lived there until retirement.


    But for public facilities to be soprehensive and well-equipped, there must be enough foot traffic; otherwise, it would result in huge losses and waste, just like how inte cafes went out of business when personalputers became moremon. This means that the designers must ensure that residents use these public facilities as much as possible, which is almost impossible. Personal will and collective living often conflict, and the point of private ownership is to allow people to gradually break free from the constraints of the collective.It��s only in family cities like Vamora that such a unique social ecosystem can exist. The spiritual lives of the nsmen are directly satisfied by Beauty Mist, and their personal wills are influenced by the Family Rebirth Dream. Their dissatisfaction and desires in reality are suppressed to the lowest level, so they naturally live like robots, following the procedures and steps arranged by the family.


    In a sense, Vamora might be an upgraded version of the Gospel society. After all, the residents of Azura still have immoral desires that need to be relieved by the Gospel Book, whereas the family residents of Vamora, having inhaled Beauty Mist for a long time, don��t develop any evil thoughts. Everyone is the best citizen, and work efficiency, life rhythm, interpersonal rtionships, and social engineering have all reached the level of a national model city under the influence of the family. Except for the fact that no one generates ��dissatisfaction,�� everything is very satisfactory.


    However, the visiting tourists were not here to conduct surveys. They only cared about whether they were currently dependent on others or in possession of valuablemodities.


    Annan did not borate further, only leaving them with, ��I��ll gather you all at 6 PM, until then, you��re free to do as you please,�� and gave them 500 Gospel points.


    From that moment, the Funeral Firm officially entered into a strategic partnership with the Gospel Book. In case of emergencies, they could directly ask the Gospel for guidance.


    Ashe asked, ��Aren��t you afraid we��ll ask how to break the Pact with you?��


    Annan replied, ��I already asked. 500 points aren��t enough.��


    Watching Annan and Banjeet leave, Harvey took out a catnip cigarette, nced at Lise, who was still battling with her strawberry ice cream, and bit down on the unlit cigarette. ��I��m really worried that mother and daughter might sell us out.��


    Ashe said, ��Annan isn��t that kind of person, right? I mean, the youngdy is so greedy. She��s invested so much effort into us; she wouldn��t just hand us over.��


    ��But you can also see the huge gap between her and her mother,�� the necromancer said, spreading his hands. ��If we were to use corpses as a metaphor, the difference between them is likeparing a charred body to a giant.��


    ��To be honest, I don��t think that��s an appropriateparison for mealtime����


    ��Really? I think it makes the food taste even better,�� Harvey said, with a catnip cigarette hanging from his lips. ��Don��t be fooled by how Annan talked about being at odds with her mother in prison. Her most important reliance is still her blood rtionship with her mother. And as for blood rtionships�� my view is quite simr to Igor��s.��


    ��All rtionships exist to allow Upper-tier Individuals to better exploit Lower-tier Individuals,�� the Con Artist said slowly, savoring his food. ��Harvey��s right. Annan doesn��t have the capital to counter Qenna. As for that Pact between mother and daughter�� ha, we can��t even fully control our own Pacts, let alone expect it to bind a Sanctuary sorceress?��


    ��Plus, Annan is still being secretive and unwilling to reveal her ns. Our current situation is basically like that of L Fatty, just waiting to see if the chef��sst name is Dn or Senhaeser.��


    Lise was startled. ��Are we going to be eaten?��


    ��Do you prefer salted egg yolk or baked salt?�� Ashe wiped the clump of creamy happiness off the corner of Lise��s mouth with a napkin. ��If you��re scared, don��t eat so much. If you get too fat, you might get killed.��


    ��Then I��m not scared. Dad is fatter than me and even fatter than Aunt Bukin.��


    ��I��m not fat; I��m strong and healthy. I��m nothing like your scrawny Aunt Bukin.��


    Igor couldn��t be bothered to deal with this father-daughter duo. ��A strange city, xenophobic locals, a secretive employer, and a local security force with ulterior motives�� Even under the Blood Moon, the only ce that could gather these four suspicious elements is my hometown, Feimeng City.��


    ��What kind of hellish ce did you crawl out of, demon����


    ��Anyway, let��s start investigating,�� Igor said, standing up and picking up his tray. ��I don��t expect you to uncover any groundbreaking information, but at least try not to attract too much attention. Especially you three: suspicious men in ck robes in broad daylight, fashion disasters following Abyss trends, and a low-IQ child who only knows how to act cute and clueless. And then there��s Harvey and Little Lise.��


    ��If we were in the Blood Moon Kingdom, I��d definitely sue you for personal attacks,�� Ashe said.


    Harvey also got up to leave. ��I��m going back to train. Anyone want to be my research material?��


    Though the necromancer repeatedly assured everyone he wouldn��t harm them, no one was willing to sleep in a coffin. After Harvey left, Ashe looked at Lise, who shook her head. ��I��m busy today too, Dad. You go y with the other kids!��


    ��No, no, I just want Lise�� okay, never mind.��


    Ashe��s childish whims couldn��t ovee his sense of shame. After half-heartedly whining to Lise, he changed the subject. ��What could a kid like you be so busy with? Leave the fighting to your Aunt Bukin. Just remember to wipe your mouth after you eat.��


    Lise looked at Ashe seriously and then lowered her head. ��I��m not a kid, Dad. Did you forget? I��m here to seize the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.��


    ��Then you��re a greedy kid who can��t even wipe her own mouth.�� Ashe pulled her over and roughly wiped her greasy mouth with a napkin. ��This is a dangerous ce, even for your Aunt Bukin. You��d better stay in your room and not wander around.��


    Lise didn��t say anything, but her little face was written all over with ��I��ll pretend to obey but do as I like.�� Ashe sighed. ��I��m toozy to care about you, but I have this Pact to protect you��want me to apany you?��


    Lise cheerfully said, ��No need!��


    However, Ashe shook his head. ��I can��t let you wander around this ce alone. Even if I wanted to, the Pact wouldn��t allow it�� wait a minute.�� He noticed Lise pouting. ��Daughters in their rebellious phase are so hard to handle�� Hold on, I have an idea.��


    Ashe snapped his fingers, and another suspicious fugitive in a ck robe appeared beside him. Lise, knowing it was Ashe��s Substitute spirit, asked curiously, ��Dad, do you want the Substitute to follow me? But the Substitute only listens to your orders. If I tell it to kneel, it won��t obey.��


    Why would you want it to kneel�� Ashe hesitated, then decided to ignore the odd request. ��This isn��t just a simple Substitute spirit. It��s a Combined Miracle of Substitute and orders��an Advanced Substitute!��


    ��What��s so special about it?��


    ��The special part is that I can transfer the order permissions to you, so you canmand the Substitute.�� Ashe patted the Substitute. ��With it following you, I won��t need to worry as much. Plus, the Substitute doesn��t share vision or memories with me, so you don��t have to worry about your teenage secrets being discovered.��


    The ��orders�� spirit was a reward Ashe received from the Amnesia Cabin. In the Amnesia Cabin, he lost the Reverse Day spirit but gained the orders spirit and the Secret Incarnation. The orders spirit and the Substitute spirit were a perfect match, enhancing the Substitute��s service range significantly, and allowing Ashe to rent out the Substitute.


    Once he��s away from all conflicts, Ashe could rely on the Substitute to support himself and live a peaceful, carefree life.


    ��Really?�� Lise blinked and bent down to take off her shoes��


    ��Wait, what are you doing?�� Ashe panicked.


    ��I want it to carry me.��


    ��Then why are you taking off your shoes?��


    Lise scratched her head. ��Oh, right! Although I��m not touched by Dad��s concern at all, since Dad insists on bothering me, I��ll take the Substitute for a walk!��


    ��At this moment, all you need to do is sincerely say thank you.�� Ashe ruffled Lise��s hair again. ��Though I don��t know what you��re in such a hurry for, don��t push yourself too hard.��


    Lise looked up at Ashe and suddenly smiled with squinty eyes. ��Is Dad finally willing to help me seize the Divine Sovereign��s Wish?��


    ��But don��t push me too hard either,�� Ashe replied grumpily.


    After leaving the canteen with the Substitute, Lise took out her beloved little mirror and stared at her reflection for a long time.


    Little Witch: ��Why don��t we ask Dad for help? He��s an adult, better suited for gathering information about the Gospel Incarnation, and I also want to work with Dad����


    ck Butler: ��Our little sister is siding with an outsider. Is this what they call the rebellious phase?��


    White Queen: ��Lise, we can��t reveal our secrets. Human nature cannot be tested; we can only trust our sisters. In terms of close rtionships, the witch is still our grandmother.��


    Little Witch: ��Dad is not our grandmother!��


    ck Butler: ��But if you want to test his human nature, he might be our grandfather.��


    Little Witch, shocked: ��Is Ashe going to marry grandmother?��


    At this moment, Deya suddenly said, ��Lise, I��m willing to trust your judgment.��


    Deya��s words shocked all the other sisters. Not just ck Butler and White Queen, even the Scarlet Dead Apostles couldn��t help but speak up: ��Deya, are you finally admitting that you have the intelligence of an eight-year-old?��


    Deya: ��ording to our division ofbor, you, Lise, have the final say in reality, just like I��m the undisputed leader in the Virtual Realm. You canpletely decide our course of action in reality����


    ck Butler: ��Pfft.��


    As Lise��s eyes began to brighten, Deya continued: ��But just as you trust Ashe, I also trust the Observer and the sword Princess. Do you know why I went to the Con Artist early this morning to learn how to naturally conceal secrets?��


    ��Why?��


    ��Because not revealing secrets prevents change. Maintaining our current Mask allows us to continue enjoying our current rtionships.��


    Little Witch, unconvinced: ��But revealing them could also lead to positive changes, right?��


    Deya: ��Really? In the Virtual Realm, the Observer might not care, but the sword Princess clearly values the Observer far more than me; in reality, Ashe might not have ill intentions towards you, but to help you, he would definitely seek assistance from the Con Artist and the necromancer. Even if he doesn��t, those two will sooner orter notice his unusual behavior�� They might not necessarily have bad intentions towards us, butpared to us, they definitely care more about Ashe, just like the sword Princess would protect the Observer and oppose me.��


    ��If Ashe is willing to be an enemy of the Gospel for you, would you be willing to do the same?��


    Lise fell silent. The White Queen, ck Butler, and Scarlet Dead Apostles also remained quiet.


    Lise: ��So, should I distance myself from Dad?��


    Deya: ��No, quite the opposite. You should continue to use Ashe. This has always been our n. Use his affection for you to guide him into helping you, but never reveal our secrets.��


    ��Better for us to use him than to let him actively help us. The most terrifying aspect of the Gospel is its ability to turn good intentions into malicious fate.��


    ��When we were in the Tower, we experienced too much of this sorrow. Those who tried to stop our Armored Sanctification became debts our souls had to bear; those we deceived survived instead.��


    ��Until the Weaving Festival is over, our love is a curse, our trust is poison.��


    Little Witch, dejected: ��So, Lise still has to be a bad witch who lies and uses others?��


    ��Yes,�� Deya replied. ��We are all bad witches.��


    ��I��m sorry,�� the White Queen suddenly said. ��We sisters couldn��t give you a happy life and instead made you bear all this.��


    ��Hey, hey, White Queen, what are you apologizing for!�� ck Butler said. ��This is obviously the witch��s fault, not ours!��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles: ��Little ck, just shut up.��


    ��It��s okay!�� Lise cheered up. ��I��m your sister. I��m not that easy to knock down. A witch is a witch. I am the Little Witch!��


    Lise turned to the Substitute. ��Let��s go find the library here���� She hesitated, then added with a pleading look, ��Can you hold my hand?��


    Though she couldn��t be honest with Ashe, at least she could now freely act spoiled with Ashe��s Substitute.


    The Substitute nced at her and extended its hand to hold hers.


    Little Lise��s despondent expression vanished, and she bounced around like a happy little rabbit.


    ��Let��s go, help me find the library floor.��


    ��I��m so tired from walking. Carry me.��


    ��Help me check which books mention the Gospel Incarnation, and also find books about history from a thousand years ago.��


    ��I��m so sleepy, slow down.��


    ��Can you sing?��


    Ten minutester, in the library, the Substitute carefully pulled out the requested books, mindful not to disturb the sleeping Lise, while humming a luby expressionlessly.


    Suddenly, it noticed a book on the shelf titled Generations of Envement: The Endless Tyranny of the Evil Nobility. For a brief moment, aplex light flickered in its hollow eyes.

 Chapter 325: Listening to the Gospel

    Chapter 325: Listening to the Gospel


    Ashe was unaware that the working conditions for his substitute had worsened; he had more pressing matters to attend to.


    After relieving some psychological pressure with Igor, the cult leader also quickly rified his most urgent task at hand��


    A card draw!


    He needed to draw an item that could heal the soul immediately. Otherwise, he wouldn��t be able to enter the Virtual Realm to fulfill his pact with the Empress��s heroic soul, and the operators�� strength enhancement woulde to a halt!


    Although his points hadn��t reached the threshold for triggering the first purchase double bonus, now was clearly not the time for maximizing benefits. If he didn��t make an in-game purchase when needed, he wouldn��t be able to pass the ��Empress��s Challenge�� event!


    In the past, Ashe would usually ask Igor to ��soften the blow�� to improve his luck before making an in-game purchase.


    But now he had a better option��the Gospel Book!


    It��s worth mentioning that there were no gambling activities in the Kingdom of Gospel. After all, under the observation of the Gospel Book, all gambling equated to giving money away. Those who listened to the Gospel were like students educated in materialism; they didn��t believe in luck, which they considered feudal superstition. The difference was that thetter believed in human potential, while the former believed in the inevitability of the Gospel.


    Initially, Ashe had worried about not having Gospel points. Unexpectedly, he stumbled upon the Empress��sp pillow, and 500 Gospel points came as a timely rain!Returning to his room, Ashey on his bed and summoned the Gospel Book: ��Gospel, Gospel, how can I improve my winning rate in ��Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook�� search?��


    ��Honorable Ashe Heath,�� the Gospel Book responded, ��I cannotprehend your request.��


    Huh?


    The Gospel Book was this polite?


    Because Ashe didn��t use the Gospel Book often, he wasn��t very familiar with its customer service attitude. However, he remembered that thest time he used the Gospel Book, it didn��t have this level of service.


    Could it be that now he had 500 Gospel points, the Gospel Book immediately put on a money-grubbing face?


    Even the Gospel Book knew how to use tiered services to satisfy customer superiority?


    Ashe repeated his question, and the Gospel Book responded with some difficulty: ��Your Excellency, the Gospel cannot recognize the ��Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook�� mentioned in your speech. However, based on your description, is it correct to understand that you wish to obtain desired items in a random draw event?��


    ��That��s right.��


    ��Then the Gospel proposes two immature solutions: �� Increase your luck; �� Amplify your intent.��


    Ashe was a bit puzzled: ��I understand increasing luck, but what does amplifying intent mean?��


    Gospel Book: ��Intent is the most powerful force of a sorcerer. This intent is not the ��mind�� of the Mental Sect, but specifically refers to the sum of a sorcerer��s will, concept, and soul. The most powerful sorcerers do not need to deliberately urge the spirit; spellforce is merely auxiliary. The true Miracle is when the spirit actively aligns with the sorcerer��s intent, cooperating and soaring together.��


    ��When a sorcerer engages in any random draw, it is equivalent to the sorcerer using their intent to interfere with the draw mechanism. As long as the sorcerer��s intent is strong enough, it is possible for the draw mechanism to actively offer the prize they need.��


    Oh!?


    Although it can��t directly increase my winning rate, it can amplify my intent, making it easier for me to draw what I want�� It sounds unscientific, but it seems to make some sense. Just like in card games, a true duelist has a Bond with their deck. When they need a miraculous draw, they will pull the card they desire!


    Ashe: ��What are the prices for increasing luck and amplifying intent?��


    Gospel Book: ��Your Excellency, increasing luck is priced ording to your payment amount, ranging from 100 points to 1,000,000,000 points. Choosing the highest-level luck enhancement service is equivalent to entering a state where wishese true.��


    ��Amplifying intent only costs 150 points, because intent is closely rted to the sorcerer. The Gospel can only amplify the power of intent, and the specific effect will vary ording to the strength of your intent.��


    Ashe: ��Then how can I improve my intent?��


    Gospel Book: ��Your Excellency, that question requires 10 points.��


    Ashe was very displeased: ��I have to pay first without getting anything?��


    Gospel Book: ��Very sorry, Your Excellency, your feedback has been noted.��


    Although Asheined a bit, he still paid honestly. The Gospel Book immediately replied: ��Intent is closely rted to emotions. When Your Excellency��s emotions are very intense, your intent vibration will also reach its peak. Moreover, your emotions should be closely rted to the item you desire, which will make your intent highly directional.��


    Emotions, intent, desired item��


    Without a doubt, the item Ashe currently most wanted to draw was the ��Pure Luminescence Elixir.�� There was still one bottle in the warehouse, left over from thest draw. This was the only item he knew of that could heal the soul. He needed to draw several more bottles this time and then use the ��Alchemist��s Refining Bottle�� to synthesize a more advanced, potent potion. Otherwise, they wouldn��t be able to recover their soul injuries in a few days.


    But how to summon these emotions?


    Ashe thought about how they would soon fail to enter the Virtual Realm in time and the Empress��s heroic soul would deduct their soul summoning spirit and full attendance bonus.


    A bit of emotion rose up.


    Ashe then thought about them all being captured by the Empress��s heroic soul, buried in a sea of beasts, dying with no remains.


    Because it was too surreal, it only raised a bit more emotion.


    Ashe then imagined not being captured by the Empress��s heroic soul, but his two operators identally dying, leaving Ashe to work alone without anyone to exploit.


    It surged up, emotions surged up!


    ��I can��t stand it anymore!�� Ashe said through gritted teeth. ��Amplify my intent, please!��


    ��No need to say ��please,�� Your Excellency,�� the Gospel Book responded immediately. ��Intent amplification willst 10 seconds, costing 150 Gospel points. Please prepare yourself.��


    Ashe opened the Sorcerer��s Handbook and went straight to ��Supply Purchase.�� He now had 238 points, which allowed him to buy the ��Bag of Source Crystals�� worth 198 points without the first purchase double bonus, gaining 40 Source Crystals. Adding the 14 he had saved, he had a total of 54 Source Crystals, just enough for 18 draws!


    Ashe didn��t dare to use them all at once and decided to try a ten-draw first to test his luck.


    Thinking about how he had to make an in-game purchase without a bonus reward because of this intruding event made Ashe even angrier!


    ��I��m ready! Right now!��


    ��The faithful Gospel will now amplify your intent. Countdown: 3 seconds, 2 seconds, 1 second�� You are now in an amplified intent state, with 10 seconds remaining!��


    Ashe immediately opened ��Operator Search,�� selected the limited search pool ��Dance of Swords and Dragons,�� and chose ��Search Ten Times!��


    Ten purple lights!


    ��Pure Luminescence Elixir�� ��9, ��energy potion�� ��1!


    Ashe was stunned. By the time he came back to his senses, the ten seconds had passed. The Gospel Book reminded him: ��Your Excellency has exited the amplified intent state. Are you satisfied with this service?��


    ��Very satisfied.�� Ashe sniffed, almost moved to tears. ��I��m extremely satisfied!��


    No wonder everyone prefers living within the weave of the Gospel. Is this the joy of the Gospel?


    It��s incredibly joyful!


    Although people should cherish their dignity, if you can cheat, dignity doesn��t seem that important!


    A wonderful day starts with listening to the Gospel!


    ��


    ��


    Meanwhile, the necromancer was also using the Gospel Book.


    He had designed two advanced modification ns for Alice but couldn��t decide which to choose. In the past, he would collect a bunch of corpses, perform necromancy modifications on all of them, and see who adapted best to the new environment. But now, he couldn��t recruit new employees and had to carefully cultivate his only key member.


    Harvey: ��Of the two ns, which one is more suitable for Alice?��


    Gospel Book: ��50 Gospel points.��


    Harvey thought for a moment and decided to ask separately, thinking it might be cheaper: ��Is Alice suitable for the wraith modification n?��


    Gospel Book: ��Not suitable (cost 25 points).��


    Harvey then asked: ��Is Alice suitable for the ghoul modification n?��


    Gospel Book: ��Also not suitable (cost 25 points).��


    The necromancer��s almost cold heart felt a bit of warmth��charging me 50 points just to tell me neither is suitable?


    He took a drag of catnip to calm down and continued to ask: ��How should Alice be strengthened next?��


    Gospel Book: ��100 Gospel points.��


    Although the necromancer already had a few ideas, based on the lesson just learned, he decided to pay honestly.


    Gospel Book: ��Based on your current resources, you should perform ghoul enhancements on Alice��s limbs and wraith enhancements on her body.��


    His heart burned with frustration!


    Isn��t this just abination of the two ns I made? Why didn��t you say earlier that the ghoul enhancements are only suitable for limbs and the wraith enhancements only for the body? You could��ve saved me some points!


    A wonderful day ends with listening to the Gospel.

 Chapter 326: Conceptual Secret Toxin, Facing the Miracle

    Chapter 326: Conceptual Secret Toxin, Facing the Miracle


    Scorching Soul Essence Elixir: Every powerful soul releases a bit of scorching soul essence when it dissipates. Drinking this elixir can significantly heal the soul, and a Golden Soul will fully recover within seven days. Additionally, spellforce absorption in the Virtual Realm is increased by 10% during this period. What kind of person, and in what kind of ce, could so easily collect a bottle of Scorching Soul Essence Elixir?


    Zealous Potion: The user bes more honest and passionate, actively expressing their emotions with a strong desire to deepen intimate rtionships, and their sense of shame is greatly reduced. The bond improvement speed of operators is increased by 100%,sting for one day.


    Ashe drew nine bottles of Pure Luminescence Elixir and, with one more bottle stored in the warehouse, used the Alchemist��s Refining Bottle to refine them in pairs. He seeded four times, resulting in three bottles of Advanced Scorching Soul Essence Elixir and one mutated Zealous Potion.


    Undoubtedly, Ashe had met his basic goal. With these three bottles of Advanced Scorching Soul Essence Elixir, both he and the Sword Princess Witch could fully heal their soul injuries before the next round at the Spider Tower.


    As for the Zealous Potion�� while its effects seemed promising, it also felt like it could lead to some major news. If Ashe were to give the Zealous Potion to the Witch, causing her to increase her intimacy with him, leading to clinginess, affection, and embraces, just the thought of it was exhrating.


    But the Sword Princess was watching.


    Ashe had already exhausted his office politics skills just to get the Sword Princess to ept the Witch into the team. Now, seeing the Witch possibly heading towards bing a secretary, the jealous and hot-tempered redhead would undoubtedly throw a fit.


    So, should he give the Zealous Potion to the Sword Princess?


    But that would turn it into a gamble: if Ashe and the Sword Princess reached a new level of their bond within the day, Ashe would win the bet; if not, the Sword Princess would surely be furious once she realized, and while he might not die, life would certainly be less pleasant��Besides considering the Sword Princess��s feelings, Ashe also needed to take the Witch��s opinion into ount.


    After all, the interactions in the Amnesia Cabin might have already caused the Witch to misunderstand. If she saw Ashe and the Sword Princess suddenly getting closer, she might think she belonged under the car rather than in it��


    Moreover�� the Witch might not be misunderstanding at all.


    Thinking about this, Ashe couldn��t help but sigh.


    As someone who had worked as a corporate ve, he knew that there were certain taboos in the office for good reason. Colleagues could be good friends, but they should remain just that��good friends.


    Crossing that line not only had a negative impact on others but wasn��t good for oneself either. You go to work to earn money and satisfy your material needs, not to enjoy a spiritual life. A team is a team, and a family is a family. The former requires clear rewards and punishments and focuses on interests; thetter is about mutual tolerance and emotional bonds.


    The two should never be confused.


    Although Ashe had never worked for a smallpany, he had heard from ssmates that those who failed to distinguish between team and family in smallpanies often ended up contributing to thendlord��s rent beforepleting their historical mission.


    Even though it was only a three-person team, Ashe was conscious of his role as a leader. He knew that a three-person team wouldn��t be the end. And even if it remained just the three of them, he had to find a way to manage their rtionships well. ��Two people bing closer, causing the third to feel alienated�� was amon pitfall in startups, as ubiquitous as baldness among city dwellers.


    For both emotional and logical reasons, Ashe had to bnce the scales of their rtionships. Therefore, he couldn��t give the Zealous Potion to the Sword Princess.


    As for the idea of kicking out either the Witch or the Sword Princess for a day and then giving the potion to the remaining one��that was even more uneptable. Put yourself in their shoes: if you returned from a break and saw your boss colluding with a colleague, you would surely feel excluded and start doubting thepany��s system.


    So, the Zealous Potion had to be kept for now.


    But Ashe didn��t n to discard it.


    After all, bing close with only one person would lead to many thoughts for the other. So�� what if he deepened his rtionship with both of them at the same time?


    If Ashe could get another bottle of Zealous Potion in the future, he could use both bottles simultaneously on the Witch and the Sword Princess. This might create a harmonious bond among all three of them, advancing their rtionships to a new level!


    Though there might be a tad bit of selfishness involved, Ashe felt his idea was quite rational and aimed at a better future for the team��aside from the slight personal gain.


    In any case, Ashe had to face the unknown Weaving Festival in reality and the pursuit in the Spider Tower in the Virtual Realm. Their team��s interpersonal rtionships couldn��t afford any more upheavals.


    This was indeed a critical moment of life and death!


    As the saying goes, ��One thinks of desire only after their stomach is full.�� He needed to ensure his material safety before contemting his spiritual life.


    However, thinking about what happened in the Amnesia Cabin, Ashe couldn��t help but chuckle.


    O(��_��)O Haha, he definitely had to recount the Sword Princess��s coquettish remarks during a less dangerous battle round. Such good ammunition shouldn��t go to waste!


    Havingpleted the basic goal of the card draw��securing his material needs��Ashe now looked forward to the exciting ��desire�� phase. Since his intentions had allowed him to draw the Pure Luminescence Elixir, they should also help him pull a Golden Legend!


    He wanted to draw a new operator!


    He wanted to get more useful Virtual Realm items!


    He wanted to find miraculous items that could increase his sect experience even while operators rested!


    Feeling his emotions still needed a boost, Ashe calmed himself and checked the Limited Search pool for anything he liked��


    ��Bridal Sword Princess��


    Something surged within him��a powerful feeling!


    Ashe: ��Now��s the time, amplify my intentions!��


    ��The faithful Gospel will amplify your intentions, countdown: 3 seconds, 2 seconds, 1 second�� You have entered the intention amplification state, remaining duration: 10 seconds!��


    Draw!


    Golden light, ��The Magic Mirror Shards of the ck and White Witch��!


    White light, energy potion!


    White light, experience potion!


    All the rest were white lights!


    The Magic Mirror Shards of the ck and White Witch: No one knows exactly how many shards the ck and White Witch lost, but everyone who found one died a swift and unnatural death, until the shards returned to their original owner. It��s said that the Witch shattered the mirror herself to escape her own reflection. Using this item expands Bond functionality.


    Ashe fell into deep thought.


    Was this a sess or a failure?


    It could be seen as a sess since he drew an enhancement item for the ck and White Witch; however, it was only one sess. On the other hand, it wasn��t aplete failure either.


    Ashe had already done ten draws without pulling a Golden card, so statistically, the odds of getting one were higher this time. Thus, this might have been a normal draw, unrted to his intentions.


    There was also another possibility-since Ashe had never seen the Bridal Sword Princess, his imagination might have had its limits. His intent may not have been strong enough to influence the draw system.


    Nevertheless, the Witch��s enhancement item was evidently more useful than the Sword Princess��s Bridal skin, so this was still a win�� Ashe could only console himself this way.


    Although he still had Gospel points and game credits, Ashe decided to stop here. He had only 190 Gospel points left, which he needed to save for emergencies.


    In the Kingdom of Gospel, points that could gather all kinds of information were an unparalleled strategic resource, more crucial than even a sorcerer��s own power.


    Using ��The Magic Mirror Shards of the ck and White Witch,�� the information about the ck and White Witch was updated.


    ��ck and White Witch��


    ��Species: Human��


    ��Gender: Female��


    ��Age: 19��


    ��Bond Level: 1 (35% Experience Sharing)��


    ��Bond Resonance: ying with People��s Hearts: Even without rted mental spirits, you and the Witch have a supernatural ability to influence minds.��


    ��ss: Annihtion Follower��


    ��ss Trait: Increases damage to groups of knowledge creatures by 5%.��


    ��Silver Blessing: Witch��s Taboo: Secrecy grants you power; concealment is your weapon. The fewer people in real life who know your true nature, the stronger you be in the Virtual Realm. Currently, the ck and White Witch��s concealment level is 85% (little known), granting an 85% spellforce recovery speed bonus (Observer��s observations not included).��


    ��Items: Training Gloves��


    ��Controlling Spirits: Mask, Hydrotherapy, w, Riptide����


    ��Mental Sect: Silver Level��


    ��Fist-w Sect: Golden Level��


    ��Time Sect: Silver Level��


    ��Water Sect: Silver Level��


    ��Knowledge Secret Toxin: Bronze Dragon Secret Toxin��


    The concealment level of the Witch had decreased, from 93% previously to 85% now. Since Witch��s Taboo only counts those who know in the real world, it must mean someone else has discovered something about her. This was quite careless!


    However, this Bond resonance�� Last time, it was said that Ashe and the Sword Princess had a resonance of ��Insatiable Greed.�� But this time, how could he have a resonance of ��ying with People��s Hearts�� with the Witch?


    When had he ever yed with someone��s heart?


    Perhaps this was just a preset for yers, Ashe thought, not giving it much more consideration.


    He casually used the Scorching Soul Essence Elixir on the Witch and then navigated to the Sword Princess��s operator interface. Immediately, he noticed something strange��


    Knowledge Secret Toxin: Golden Fish Secret Toxin, Vortex Secret Toxin, Expel Secret Toxin, Bronze Dragon Secret Toxin, Conceptual Secret Toxin


    Why did the Sword Princess have an additional toxin?


    Was she secretly getting stronger behind his back?


    However, this particr toxin could be directly clicked to view, which meant�� he already had the knowledge to ess this toxin?


    ��Conceptual Secret Toxin��


    ��Toxin Details: In the Virtual Realm, certain abstract concepts can, for special reasons, gain physical form and manifest as conceptual incarnations. When you possess a conceptual incarnation, you gain the highest priority enhancement effects. When a conceptual incarnation is destroyed, it means the Virtual Realm temporarily loses this concept, and all spirits rted to this concept will be directly annihted and cannot be reborn until the concept is regenerated by the Virtual Realm.��


    ��Number of Secret Toxin Infections: 79��


    ��Secret Toxin Strength: 79%��


    ��Current Effects of the Secret Toxin: asionally, you will witness traces of all miracles (enhancement effect at 50% strength,rge negative effect at 100% strength).��


    Ashe was momentarily confused��wasn��t being able to see the traces of miracles an enhancement?


    However, when Ashe lifted his head, the entire world transformed.


    Themp, walls, ceiling, carpet, and nket��everything in his room suddenly transformed into post-modern art made of spider silk.


    Feeling something, Ashe instinctively turned to look at Vamora outside the window.


    At this moment, the bustling cityscape had vanished, reced by a spider��s nest entangled with countlessyers of web. In the sky, a giant web extended to the horizon, endless and imprable.


    On the streets shrouded in white mist, spiders were walking, with every creature connected by dozens of silk threads. They didn��t seem to be moving on their own but were rather being pulled along by the threads, like puppets walking through various nests.


    Terrified, Ashe stood up, but his hands felt sticky. Looking down, he found himself covered in countless spider threads. The bed he was just sitting on had turned into a cocoon storing food. He now resembled an insect caught in a spider web, his skinpletely covered in sticky white liquid. Threads seemed to be crawling into his mouth and eyes, trying to seal his mouth, blind his eyes, and grasp his heart��


    In the next second, the world returned to normal.


    The room was just a room, the city was just a city, and the white sheets were neatly spread on the bed.


    Ashe touched his face, smooth and tender, without any sticky residue.


    This was the second toxin he had that brought negative effects.


    The other one was the Vortex Secret Toxin, which made him averse to water. However, Ashe hadrgely ovee the Vortex Secret Toxin��s influence. As long as he didn��t directly look at the water and convinced himself that he was soaking in c during baths, he could avoid triggering the toxin��this was a life hack taught to him by the Sword Princess.


    Compared to the Vortex Secret Toxin, the influence of the Conceptual Secret Toxin might be much greater.


    For weaklings like them, ignorance was indeed their camouge.


    Ashe was not unaware that Gospel was omnipresent, like air, but presenting the horrors of Gospel in this way would inevitably plunge people into hysterical fear and despair.


    After all, if you hate water, you can still drink c or milk. But if even the air, thend, and the food make you feel fear, where can you escape?


    ����This should be the first time since I came to Gospel that I start to miss the Blood Moon Kingdom.��

 Chapter 327: Secret Incarnation

    Chapter 327: Secret Incarnation


    The conceptual Incarnation is the embodiment of an abstract concept��


    Once a conceptual Incarnation dies, all rted spirits will perish, and the sorcerer will be unable to summon them again until the Virtual Realm regenerates the concept��


    Is this kind of dangerous item something that a two-wings sorcerer can handle!?


    Ashe shuddered at the thought. In a Kingdom dominated by sorcerers, their miracles permeated every level of life. As the most crucial support for sorcerers, spirits were akin to vital energy sources like electricity and thermal energy-essentially the ��lifeblood of society.��


    To put it another way, if the ��Electromaic Incarnation�� concept were destroyed, the Kingdom of Gospel would copse immediately. This is because almost all critical nodes of Gospel��s power system require maintenance and operation by the Electromancy Sect sorcerers. If the spirits of the Electromancy Sect vanished, this precise and efficient energy system would disintegrate in an instant, plunging everyone back to a primitive state.


    Should such a dramatic upheaval ur, it would take society decades to recover, with incalcble economic and life losses, potentially leading to years of social unrest.


    And yet, the conceptual Incarnation, which is so crucial to the Kingdom��s fate, can be essed by a two-wings sorcerer!?


    This is not just like ��casually buying a gun at a supermarket,�� but more akin to ��finding uranium on eBay.�� Even a two-wings golden sorcerer, let alone a legendary sorcerer, shouldn��t have the right to possess such a perilous item that affects the fate of millions.


    Yet, he casually received one from a heroic soul on the Time Continent and then exchanged it with another heroic soul!?However, upon calming down, Ashe suddenly realized that while this seemed absurd, it might not be unreasonable after all.


    From observation, it appears that only heroic soulmanders can possess such things as conceptual Incarnations, and a two-wings sorcerer is absolutely incapable of defeating a heroic soulmander. The event of Ashe��s three-person team narrowly defeating the weakest logisticsmander is practically unrepeatable, not even once in a million years.


    Moreover, heroic soulmanders who possess conceptual Incarnations are likely the elite of various factions, and the chances of them being ambushed by sorcerers are almost negligible.


    That is to say, the transfer of a conceptual Incarnation only urs among heroic soulmanders, who are subordinates of the Divine Sovereign. Furthermore, amander carrying a ��conceptual Incarnation�� seems to greatly enhance thebat power of their corresponding troop type��


    The appearance of a conceptual Incarnation on the second level of the Virtual Realm is likely intentional by the Divine Sovereign. Since the sorcerers on the Time Continent have rtively lowbat power, the conceptual Incarnation remains safe.


    If the conceptual Incarnation were to appear on the third or fourth levels of the Virtual Realm, where Sanctuaries are abundant and legendary sorcerers aremonce, not only would the protection around the conceptual Incarnation increase dramatically, but the risk of losing it would also be significant. Ashe and other sorcerers who smuggled themselves into the Virtual Realm can master two or three Sects; true legendary sorcerers might integrate and innovate multiple Sects.


    They wouldn��t need to engage in direct confrontation; they could easily steal the conceptual Incarnation through various Miracles.


    Ashe suddenly recalled the description of the soul summoning spirit: ����Congrattions on bing a yer in this never-ending game, although you don��t even qualify as a pawn.����


    Compared to heroic soulmanders, sorcerers indeed do not qualify as pieces in this game.


    The conflicts among the various factions on the Time Continent are likely a microcosm of the Divine Sovereign��s strategic maneuvers.


    But unlike the usual stakes of gold, lives, and resources on a gambling table, the chips being exchanged by the Divine Sovereigns are terrifyingly significant. Just to enhance amander��sbat power, they dare to wager conceptual Incarnations that impact the lives of millions of civilians and the futures of countless sorcerers!


    Ashe does not believe that an opposing faction would keep a stolen conceptual Incarnation for their use. A conceptual Incarnation likely only enhances specific troop types, making it useless to an enemy faction. Thus, the only option left would be to destroy it.


    The Empress heroic soul has probably already destroyed the ��Incarnation of the Stars.�� Although Ashe isn��t sure if there is a Star Sect in this world, if there were, any star sorcerers would now be out of a job.


    Thinking about this, Ashe realized he hadn��t yet examined the most profitable and simultaneously most costly gain from this adventure��the Secret Incarnation.


    The profit lies in the high value of the conceptual Incarnation, but the cost is equally high��they will now be hunted by the Spider Tower, and they won��t have peace until they ascend to the three wings Sanctuary.


    If he could do it all over again, Ashe would rather not have obtained the conceptual Incarnation. He would even be willing to give it up in exchange for peace and quiet in the Virtual Realm. Unfortunately, the ruthless nature of the Empress heroic soul had cut off his retreat.


    The Secret Incarnation had already been absorbed by the soul summoning spirit, which was likely an insurance mechanism set by the Divine Sovereign. Even if an ordinary sorcerer were lucky enough to encounter a conceptual Incarnation, they wouldn��t be able to absorb it without a soul summoning spirit. Perhaps a legendary sorcerer could bypass the soul summoning spirit, but how could a legendary sorcerer appear on the Time Continent?


    Ashe nced at the soul summoning spirit and noticed an additional line of text:


    ��Secret: You are the embodiment of the will of secrets. You have the highest authority in the intelligence system. The Girl of Secret Gaze under yourmand can simultaneously chant the ��Weave�� Miracle for both allies and enemies (previously, it could only be used on one or the other). Chanting time is reduced by 50%, and allied units affected by Weave gain an additionalyer of armor.��


    The Secret Incarnation was indeed meant to strengthen the ��Girl of Secret Gaze,�� but Ashe hadn��t unlocked this troop type, rendering the Secret Incarnation ineffective for him.


    This was a significant loss��he gained no benefits but paid the full price!


    Unwilling to give up, Ashe opened the Gospel Book and asked, ��What are the uses of the Secret Incarnation?��


    Gospel Book: ��10,000 Gospel Points.��


    Ashe: ��Why do heroic soulmanders possess conceptual Incarnations?��


    Gospel Book: ��8,000 Gospel Points.��


    Ashe: ��Is there any free information?��


    Gospel Book: ��Today��s weather in Vamora will be sunny turning to cloudy, with a temperature of 28��. The reproduction sess rate for Elves and Goblins has greatly increased, and the likelihood of twins has significantly risen.��


    How is this useful to someone like me who can only reproduce with humans��


    Ashe: ��I want to improve my psychological resilience to be a decision-maker capable of bearing the lives of others. Do you have any advice?��


    Gospel Book: ��As expected of Your Eminence, Your Eminence��s psychological resilience is already very high, yet you still wish to improve. Gospel has an immature suggestion: Your Eminence can increase your psychological resilience by gaining more practical experience.��


    Ashe: ��That��s what I was thinking. But given the current constraints, I n to be a team leader andmander in the virtual game Epic to tackle high-difficulty dungeons. What do you think?��


    Gospel Book: ��That��s an excellent idea andpletely feasible!��


    Ashe: ��But I haven��t really spent much on in-game purchases, and even if I did, I can��t immediately reach the level of top yers. High-difficulty dungeons have very high gear requirements. Do you have any suggestions?��


    Gospel Book: ��5 points.��


    Ashe: ��I need points for this too?��


    Gospel Book: ��Your Eminence, you won��t be disappointed. (5 points deducted) ount: , Password: . The ount owner got married and will never touch Epic again. You can use it with confidence.��


    Wait, is this considered ount theft?


    But since it��s from the Gospel Book, it should be��


    Skeptical, Ashe arrived at the gaming floor, entered a game pod, and logged into the game. He was instantly dazzled by the fully-achieved, max-level character before him.


    This wasn��t just about in-game purchases; it took years of consistent y to build such a top-tier ount!


    At that moment, the negative effects of the ��Conceptual Secret Toxin�� triggered again, turning the entire game pod into a spider cocoon.


    However, this time, Ashe didn��t feel disgusted or terrified; instead, he felt a sense of familiarity.


    Though I want to sternly criticize the nauseating aspect of the Gospel Miracles, it has been incredibly good to me.

 Chapter 328: Annan Can Be Considered My Daughter

    Ashe stepped out of the gaming pod, his vision a bit blurry. It wasn��t until he wiped his eyes that he realized he was crying.


    What a miserable day; he had been scolded to the point of tears.


    Despite obtaining an advanced ount, Ashe had no experience inmanding high-difficulty raids. In fact, he hadn��t even attempted a high-difficulty raid before. So, he decided to watch how others conducted their raids first.


    With his fully-achieved and current version max-geared character, he easily blended into an Extreme Raid group.


    In the game Epic, high-difficulty dungeons are categorized into Extreme Raids, Phantom Mode, and Ultimate Mode. Extreme Raids are the upper limit for regr yers. Phantom Mode can only be cleared by professional yers with years of immersion, whereas Ultimate Mode is exclusive to sorcerer yers capable of conquering it.


    Ashe thought that even if he couldn��t tackle Ultimate Mode right away, clearing an Extreme Raid shouldn��t be an issue. He even read guides and confirmed his character��s tactical role, nning to clear an Extreme Raid in a day and then lead a team to pioneer Phantom Mode.


    Then he spent the entire day fully experiencing the curse culture of the Gospel Kingdom.


    When ites to cursing, the Gospel and Blood Moon Kingdoms each have their unique styles. The Blood Moon Kingdom, devoid of parents, often targets race, gender, and education for precise, seamless, and individual discrimination. Conversely, the Gospel Kingdom, where practically everyone has parents, circles around maternal rtives, extending to an all-epassing barrage of curses involving one��s ancestors.


    Interestingly, possibly because the Gospel holds a faith-like status in society, it often bes the main subject of insults. While Ashe himself didn��t mind, Gospel people might get deeply offended by remarks like, ��You��ve been deemed a bottom-feeder by the Gospel for life,�� or ��The Gospel decrees that you��ll be stuck with an ugly partner.��In summary, not only did Ashe fail to clear the Extreme Raid, but he was also berated by his teammates.


    The virtual games of the Gospel are indeed fun but equally challenging. In these consciousness-immersive games, yers must manually control their characters to perform tactical maneuvers. Actions like actively dodging damage zones, turning to avoid gaze attacks, and positioning correctly to share mechanic damage all have to be executed while maintaining offensive output.


    In old holographic screen games, these operations would be considered somewhat challenging. After all, allplex actions could ultimately be performed with just a keyboard and mouse.


    But in the new era of consciousness-immersive games, these operations are explosively difficult. Ashe either focused solely on dealing damage without observing the enemy��s status or got so engrossed in dodging dungeon mechanics that he neglected his teammates�� status.


    Every second required full-body coordination, and if he stumbled over uneven ground, it could immediately spell a team wipe.


    Not to mention, being in first-person view limited the yer��s field of vision, making it impossible to gather all the necessary information. He might even collide with teammates, leading to mutual disaster-something Ashe experienced several times that afternoon as he inadvertently sabotaged his team.


    However, amid this near-masochistic difficulty, Ashe discovered that the high-difficulty dungeon enemies�� resembled knowledge creatures from the virtual realm!


    Or rather, the enemies�� skills, attributes, andbat styles seemed to be heavily inspired by knowledge creatures from the virtual realm. For instance, the ��Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord�� they battled that afternoon was clearly an enhanced version of the de Fish Dragon.


    Even though Ashe and his team could handle the de Fish Dragon as easily as kicking a ball, after deeply experiencing the Extreme Cutting Carp, Ashe felt their strategy for ying the de Fish Dragon could still be optimized.


    Moreover, because knowledge creatures in the virtual realm are so diverse, there theoretically isn��t a one-size-fits-all solution. Yet, the team strategies summarized in Epic��s high-difficulty dungeons could apply to almost any scenario: spreading out, gathering, facing away, taunting, luring�� Compared to the mature and detailed teambat systems in Epic, Ashe and his team seemed like a prehistoric hunting family, relying on tacit understanding and rudimentary signals like ��I��ll go,�� ��Don��t move,�� and ��You go over there.��


    Ashe quickly realized that these high-difficulty dungeons significantly improved hismand skills. However, he was puzzled: why did others also y these self-torturing high-difficulty dungeons? They couldn��t team up in the virtual realm��


    Then it dawned on him: exactly, because they couldn��t team up, after getting beaten up by knowledge creatures in the virtual realm alone, they wanted to get their revenge in reality!


    You trampled on me today, so I��ll bring seven brothers to trample on your grave tomorrow!


    One reason the enemies in the game were modeled after knowledge creatures from the virtual realm is that it was easy to copy. Another reason was that such enemies could ignite the wrath of sorcerers without any need for backstory! The principle might be simr to having fly images in urinals.


    However, Epic was not a sorcerer training game. Sorcerers could at most gain a rough understanding of knowledge creatures�� attack patterns from the game, but thebat experience during raids was mostly useless-firstly, their personalbat power was far inferior to that of in-game characters. In any Kingdom, the number of production sorcerers far exceeded that of battle sorcerers. Secondly, raid strategies were based on team cooperation, but in the virtual realm, they were undoubtedly solitary figures. The virtual realm��s grand exams didn��t give them any chance to connect.


    It just so happened that only an examinee like Ashe, who could form teams through loopholes, could extract valuable cheating experience from high-difficulty raids.


    But ying this game was quite a tear-jerker. Just because he was a bit inexperienced, causing a dozen team wipes and making the team fail to clear the first phase of the Extreme Cutting Carp all afternoon, did they have to scold him so harshly��


    Seeing that it was about time, Ashe needed to meet up with Annan.


    Now, he had to juggle matters from the virtual realm, reality, and the game. Due to his soul damage, he could temporarily set aside the virtual realm until his soul was fully healed by the zing Soul Evolution Elixir. The game raid journey had just begun, and Ashe was still far from bing a sessful decision-makingmander. In reality, he had to meet the demands of the youngdy, Annan. Who knew what task she would assign him this time��


    Ashe felt like he was prematurely entering the state of a middle-aged corporate ve: his personal life was a mess due to his lover, he was being exploited by a young boss at work, and he couldn��t even enjoy his entertainment freely.


    But��


    Did Annan say where they were supposed to meet?


    Ashe opened the Gospel Book: ��Where is Annan?��


    Gospel Book: ��Your Grace, ording to the regtions, the Gospel cannot directly disclose the location of individuals. However, you can inquire about the location of the target��s belongings.��


    Ashe: ��Where are Annan��s clothes?��


    Gospel Book: ��(Consumes 1 Gospel point) In the wardrobe of Room 2803 on the 28th floor�� Your Grace, you should ask about the target��s personal items.��


    Ashe: ��Where is the underwear Annan is wearing right now?��


    Gospel Book: ��(Consumes 1 Gospel point) The target you inquired about does not exist�� Your Grace, the Gospel has an immature suggestion: could you inquire about a personal item you have seen with your own eyes?��


    The target does not exist��?


    Ashe: ��You��re such a scam! I got no useful information, and you just wasted 2 points.��


    Gospel Book: ��We sincerely apologize, Your Grace. The Gospel will strive to improve.��


    Finally, Ashe asked where Annan��s amethyst earring was, and the Gospel Book provided the correct answer-it was in Suite 24 in the south area of the canteen floor, along with a very considerate route to get there.


    So, Ashe descended to the canteen floor. Just as he was about to head towards Suite 24, he noticed Igor lurking in the shadows of the corridor.


    Ashe thought for a moment and decided to join him.


    Igor nced at him without saying a word.


    Soon, the door of Suite 24 opened, and a maid emerged.


    Speaking of which, although Vamora also had cleaning robots, there were more service personnel providing manual services, which was a significant contrast to the highly automated Azura.


    However, the reduction in the number of service personnel was not just because there were cheaper mechanical alternatives, but also because no one wanted to work in the service industry. While professions like chefs, hairstyle directors, and fitness coaches might somewhat fulfill one��s life purpose, jobs involving intensive physicalbor like waiting tables and cleaning up were purely for making a living.


    The so-called progress of civilization is meant to free people from the constraints of survival to enjoy the value of life. Professions that cannot fulfill one��s life purpose are destined to be eliminated.


    Positions such as restaurant maids could easily be reced by ordering apps and food delivery robots, which would be more cost-effective. However, Senhaeser still provided these jobs to ordinary nsmen, and surprisingly, the ordinary nsmen were willing to undertake such work.


    The advanced yet regressive family ecosystem was formed by Senhaeser, who had to arrange positions for nsmen, and the ordinary nsmen who, due to long-term inhtion of Beauty Mist, were incredibly satisfied with reality and had lost their drive.


    When the maid passed by, Igor directly pulled her into the room.


    Ashe was dumbfounded, following in to close the door��weren��t Con Artists supposed to use mental suggestions or hypnotic gazes? Why did he just grab her? I could do that too!


    However, Ashe quickly realized he couldn��t��initially, the maid was a bit panicked, but when she looked up and saw the Con Artist��s face, which could even charm a Moonshadow Elf, her cheeks instantly turned red, and she lowered her head, saying, ��Do you need something?��


    Ashe waved his hand in front of her face. Why did she say ��you�� instead of ��you all��? What about me?


    The maid was a twenty-year-old human female, with slightly pointed ears, possibly because one of her parents was an elf. She was beautiful, with a particrly shapely backside.


    Noticing her hungry gaze towards Igor, Ashe realized he had been mistaken. The previous scene of countless citizens staring at him on the street had been so impactful that Ashe subconsciously did not regard the people of Vamora as ordinary people but rather as neutral mobs with yellow names.


    But in reality, except for being happy and energetic every day, they were almost no different from ordinary people. They would also drool over a handsome guy and get angry when someone was bad at a game and couldn��t carry the team.


    Due to the gap between outsiders and locals, Ashe rarely saw their normal side.


    ��You know who we are, right?��


    The maid nodded: ��The patriarch told us. You are Miss Annan��s servants and also guests of Senhaeser.��


    Igor said, ��Actually, we are not Senhaeser��s guests. We are Senhaeser��s nsmen.��


    The maid and Ashe were both stunned, though Ashe��s expression was hidden under his ck cloak and mask, so the maid didn��t notice.


    The maid shook her head: ��That��s impossible. I can recognize any member of the Senhaeser n.��


    ��We are undercover agents sent by the patriarch to infiltrate Annan��s circle and steal the Dn Family��s secrets,�� Igor said. ��But Annan is very cunning. She would never trust anyone from the Senhaeser n. However, the patriarch also doesn��t trust outsiders, so she arranged for us to undergo an Exorcism Ritual, temporarily severing our ties with the n and Vamora. After multipleyers of disguise, we finally earned Annan��s trust.��


    The maid was skeptical: ��You��re people the patriarch trusts? But I remember the patriarch doesn��t trust men much.��


    Igor sighed: ��You��re right. The patriarch indeed doesn��t trust men, which is why I used to be the patriarch��s close confidante.��


    Both the maid and Ashe were taken aback, with the maid showing aplex expression: ��Do you mean����


    ��For the great achievements of Senhaeser, this sacrifice is nothing,�� Igor said, tucking his hair behind his ear and revealing a sorrowful look that evoked pity. ��It��s just that it��s been a long time since anyone cared for me����


    The emotions conveyed by the Con Artist were incredibly persuasive, and the maid almost immediately believed him. She then turned to Ashe: ��And you are��?��


    Ashe nced at Igor, who winked at him.


    Although Ashe didn��t know what Igor was nning, it was clear he had to go along with it.


    ��I am also someone the patriarch trusts.��


    ��But the patriarch wouldn��t trust a man,�� the maid said, looking suspicious. ��Are you also the patriarch��s confidante?��


    Ashe realized he couldn��t use Igor��s excuse. Igor could rely on his superb acting skills and fitting appearance to pull it off, but Ashe didn��t meet the criteria in either aspect. He had to fabricate an identity that fit his persona��


    ��In theory, Annan could be considered my daughter now.��

 Chapter 329: A Web of Lies

    Chapter 329: A Web of Lies


    The maid was taken aback, and Igor��s expression became quite intriguing.


    ��What do you mean?�� the maid swallowed hard, ��You and the patriarch����


    ��Shh.�� Ashe remained expressionless, ��It��s not as intimate as you think. To Qenna, I��m just a nighttime essory. She calls me when she needs me and dismisses me when she doesn��t�� Do you know why I still wear this ck robe? It��s because, unlike my colleague, I haven��t changed my appearance. If any of you saw me, you��d recognize me immediately��after all, I used to be around Qenna quite often.��


    ��This undercover mission was supposed to be mine alone, but Qenna didn��t trust mepletely. She even sent her cross-dressing friend to watch over me.��


    ��Do you know what reward Qenna promised me for such an important task? The right to walk openly by her side! She truly believes that my ttery in bed is genuine. She thinks I still want to be her official partner�� Hmph!��


    Ashe let out a coldugh, ��I��m not doing this for her. I epted this mission for Senhaeser and had to endure her daughter��s despicable oppression. This mother-daughter pair is just awful!��


    In just a few sentences, Ashe painted himself as a long-suffering gigolo, full of resentment against his oppressive superior. His emotions were very real, but Igor was uneasy��speaking ill of the patriarch was a risky move. He hadn��t yet figured out the general attitude of Senhaeser��s nsmen towards the patriarch. If they genuinely respected her, Ashe would have exposed himself.


    ��The patriarch isn��t that bad; she��s just a bit domineering���� the maid weakly retorted.


    Sess!Ashe and Igor exchanged nces. The maid had fully epted their identities and entered their line of thinking!


    ��We can��t contact the patriarch directly right now, so we need some information from you,�� Igor asked, ��What��s your name?��


    ��Lucy,�� the maid replied readily, ��Why can��t you contact����


    ��Annan has been monitoring us using the Gospel Book. Any slight movement from us would ruin everything. Directly contacting Qenna is the ultimate taboo. Do you know, yesterday, Qenna even shot at me a few times just topletely sever ties with me and ended up injuring my ear.�� Ashe let out a cold snort, ��I��ll remember this. After the Weaving Festival, I��ll make sure she uses her tongue to soothe my wounds.��


    Lucy: ������


    ��Lucy, I want to know where Annan has been today,�� Igor said. ��As a staff member, you should be able to check the historical entries and exits of all areas, right?��


    Lucy hesitated for a moment, then opened the Gospel Book and reviewed it briefly before saying, ��Miss Annan met with Miss Nona in the confinementyer at 10 AM; rested in her room at 12 PM; went to the maintenanceyer for a two-hour skincare session at 3 PM.��


    Ashe��s eyes widened. ��We��ve been busy all day, and she��s taking naps and having beauty treatments? No way, I can��t let this go. Anyway, Qenna doesn��t care much for her daughter. After this is over, I��ll get Annan over and bully her for a few days. Qenna won��t mind-she might even join in.��


    Lucy: ������


    Igor: ��We haven��t been back for a few years. How is Senhaeser��s rtionship with the other families?��


    Lucy: ��Rtionship? It��s okay, I guess�� I haven��t really seen people from other families, so I��m not sure.��


    Igor: ��How has Qenna��s rtionship with Nona been these past few years?��


    Lucy: ��Pretty good, I think? Miss Nona is Lady Qenna��s younger sister and the deputy leader of the Red Hat. Although Nona is currently in confinement by Lady Qenna, she��ll be released soon. As far back as I can remember, Qenna has been our patriarch, and Nona the vice-patriarch.��


    Crossing his arms, Ashe said, ��Of course, their rtionship is good. Especially since that time Nona identally walked in on us, they��ve been not just sisters in blood but also in bed. I was the fuel for their growing bond. Luckily, I was sent out on this undercover mission; otherwise, I��d have been squeezed dry by now.��


    Lucy: ������


    Igor: ��Have you seen the Weaving Festival��s Art Ranking? Any thoughts?��


    Lucy responded, ��Hmm? Not much to say, just that Miss Annan is really impressive, managing to take the top spot. It would be great if she had the Senhaeser surname instead of Dn.��


    Igor observed her for a moment, confirming that Lucy��s words were sincere and not hiding anything. He then said, ��Alright, we��ve got the information we need. Thanks for your help. You should head back now. Remember, don��t tell anyone about this, or Annan might find out.��


    ��Then, I��ll be going?�� Lucy nced at Ashe, as if afraid that this patriarch��s wild man might silence her.


    Ashe didn��t feel guilty at all. ��What, do you also want to try the top-notch service that only the patriarch can experience?��


    Lucy blushed and hurriedly fled.


    ��Igor����


    The Cult Leader gave a thumbs up to the Con Artist, winking. ��You��re really a master at ying with people��s hearts.��


    Not as good as you, Igor wanted to retort, but he knew that praising Ashe would only make him more arrogant, so he held back.


    ��How was my performance?��


    ��Over the top. I can only give you a 30,�� Igor said. ��But Vamora��s people are exactly at that level. They��ve been too well-protected by their family, so your overacting was just right. It caught her attention, leaving her no time to think about my intentions, and she fully epted our story.��


    ��But why are you investigating the maid only now?�� Ashe was puzzled. ��Are you cramming because Annan��s about to check the homework?��


    It��s already six o��clock, and there was a whole day before this.


    Could Igor have wasted time ying games?


    ��Because no one else would talk to me,�� the Con Artist gave a helpless look. ��The people here are too xenophobic. I spent the whole day without finding any useful information. I needed a catalyst to get them to open up-and Annan was that catalyst. If this maid hadn��t just seen Annan, she probably wouldn��t have listened to me at all.��


    ��So, what did you find out?��


    ��Annan ispletely confident,�� Igor said. ��She��s not nervous at all, which means she believes her n will allow us to smoothly make it onto the second Future Ranking list.��


    ��Qenna has also honored the Pact and hasn��t leaked our information. Internally, Senhaeser only knows that Annan is here, but they don��t know that Ashe Heath is also in Vamora. Additionally, Qenna and Nona seem to be����


    ��What about them?��


    ��I just have some thoughts. I need to investigate further.��


    As they spoke, they arrived at Suite 24, where Lise and Harvey were already waiting for them.


    Ashe couldn��t tell if it was just his imagination, but Annan indeed looked much better than she did in the morning. There were no visible signs of the beating from her mother, suggesting that the skincare and beauty treatments here were quite effective. However, Ashe was more interested in another part of her body, but he couldn��t tell if she was wearing anything or not.


    ��It seems everyone knows how to use the Gospel Book now. Since we��re all here, I��ll tell you about your task.��


    It dawned on Ashe that Annan had deliberately not told them the meeting ce, forcing them to find the answer themselves through the Gospel Book.


    Annan pped her hands lightly. ��Today is May 13th. We have seven days until the second ranking list.��


    ��I need you all to fall in love at least once within these seven days.��


    The setting sun outside shone through the white mist, casting a silent glow in the suite.


    Ashe broke the silence. ��At least?��


    ��Yes, at least. If possible, you should try to fall in love several times,�� Annan said calmly. ��If any of you can be romantically involved with Senhaeser��s patriarch��Qenna Senhaeser��even if it��s just for one night, it would be enough to secure our victory.��


    Igor and Ashe simultaneously had a thought: Could Annan have overheard their nonsense with Lucy?

 Chapter 330: Mission: Torn Pants!

    Chapter 330: Mission: Torn Pants!


    The good news was that Annan didn��t say those words because she heard Ashe��s sphemous remarks.


    The bad news was that Annan was serious.


    ��The second Future Ranking has two key factors: Love and Family.��


    Annan said concisely, ��So, do you understand now?��


    Althoughpared to the Blood Moon Kingdom, the air in the Gospel Kingdom was filled with the sweetness of love. Actually, there��s no need for hypotheticals��since the National Friendly Cities Ranking was first published, Vamora has consistently been the undisputed most loving city in the country. This honor is expected to bring each Vamora citizen an annual gain of 5 Gospel Points.


    If the second ranking requires Love and Family, then they were indeed in the right ce.


    ��No, I still don��t get it.��


    Harvey walked to the window, holding a cigarette made from catnip. A wisp of grayish-white smoke rose slowly: ��Why do we need to fall in love?��


    ��Because that��s the shortcut for you to gain Love and Family,�� Annan replied. ��For you guys, who have no past, as long as you put in a little effort to climb over the hill, the Gospel will mistakenly think you��re about to traverse mountains and rivers.����The same goes for Love and Family. It��s impossible for you to have your own family or find a deep, passionate love in just a few days. But as long as you show your longing for Love and Family, the Gospel Book will naturally acknowledge your sincerity.��


    ��Very logical deduction,�� Ashe said. ��But here��s the problem��falling in love is generally, probably, maybe, supposed to be an activity involving more than one person, right? Is thedy of the house finally going to grant us employee benefits, one girlfriend each?��


    ��That��s the part where you need to put in the effort,�� Annan said, adjusting her earring. ��I��ve already bought you tickets to the stage. What kind of performance you can put on depends on your abilities.��


    ��So, you��re saying we need to find someone willing to fall in love with us in this highly exclusive, materially indifferent, and pre-engagedmunity of Vamora?�� Ashe was puzzled. ��I think internal solutions among us might be more practical.��


    ��Is it the Family Rebirth Dream?�� Igor suddenly asked.


    Annan nced at him. ��Looks like you didn��t waste your day�� Yes, I��m not asking you to find someone to fall in love with in reality, but to participate in love matching directly in the Family Rebirth Dream.��


    ��Love matching?�� Ashe keenly noticed the terminology difference. ��It sounds like a social gathering full ofplexpetitive games and hidden conflicts.��


    ��Though I don��t know why you think that way, I can assure you that love matching is much simpler than you imagine,�� Annan replied. ��Let me put it this way: with the same amount of interaction time, in reality, you might only get a stranger��s contact information, but in the Family Rebirth Dream, you might have already kissed or even been intimate.��


    ��As mentioned before, the Family Rebirth Dream is a ce where every nsman needs to log in daily. They need to exhaust excessive positive emotions there to avoid permanently raising their threshold. To help nsmen quickly deplete positive emotions, the Family Rebirth Dream is almost unrestricted. You can do anything you want in there.��


    ��If you want to y submissive, there are plenty of sadistic interrogators to find. If you want to sing, you��ll encounter countless listeners. If you want to kill, there are Battle Royale games happening at any time�� Do you know how many Senhaeser nsmen there are? A full seven figures. With such a massive base, the craziness you can imagine is likely less than one-tenth of what��s in the Family Dream.��


    ��In the Family Dream, activities like love, which are popr, are almost as simple as teaming up with a stranger in a virtual game. There��s no need for any prelude; you can jump straight into the most intense parts as soon as you meet.��


    Annan twirled her fingers, turning an ordinary gesture into something sensuous. ��I��m not setting a difficult task for you. On the contrary, this mission is much easier than finding your way here.��


    ��In the Dream, you can freely set your appearance��race, gender, age, none of these are obstacles anymore. Likewise, everyone you meet there is an art piece meticulously crafted with great effort, epassing all the types you like. Coupled with the anonymity in the Dream, you can imagine how wild it can get.��


    Anonymous identities, transformed appearances, and free scenarios.


    Except for Igor, who had some understanding, everyone else was dumbfounded.


    Even though they tried their best, they couldn��t imagine how chaotic the Family Dream could be.


    Ashe and Lise, listening on the side, huddled together, trembling.


    Banjeet walked over to Harvey, lit a second catnip cigarette, and added, ��The Senhaeser nsmen don��t care about reality, not just because the Beauty Mist keeps them physiologically happy forever, but also because the Family Rebirth Dream satisfies all their sordid desires. To them, the Family Rebirth Dream is the real world, and reality is the worthless dream.��


    ��The people living in this city,�� the young butler said, overlooking the urban sprawl outside, ��are almost all pathetic animals stamped with the ��Family�� mark.��


    ��Seems like you have something on your mind,�� Igor said. ��Feel free to speak up. After all, besides me, you also need to take care of our other colleagues who aren��t too bright.��


    ��Yeah, yeah,�� Ashe said sympathetically, looking at Harvey, who returned the same look to Ashe.


    ��I��m afraid you might getpletely sucked in and be one of the Senhaeser,�� Banjeet said bluntly. ��Honestly, I only learned the details of thedy��s n today, and I��m against it. The Family Rebirth Dream has a powerful assimting ability. For those of you who haven��t experienced love, it��s like a primitive tribe encountering a modern army, a small workshop facing a factory production line��it��s a temptation you can hardly resist.��


    ��Thank you very much for the warning, Mr. Banjeet, but your tone seems to be filled with too much emotion. Do you have some personal experience you��d like to share with us?�� Igor pressed on without hesitation, like someone who had just pried open the edge of a can and was ready to plunge in.


    Annan also looked at Banjeet with some confusion.


    Banjeet was silent for a moment. ��Miss, I took care of you in Senhaeser when you were a child. That wasn��t actually on your father��s orders.��


    ��Then��?��


    ��It was Lady Qenna��s request,�� Banjeet said. ��Back then, my name was Banjeet Senhaeser. After Lady Qenna and your father separated, I followed her and defected to the Dn Family.��


    Ashe was shocked. ��A servant loyal to three families?��


    Banjeet gave him an annoyed nce.


    ��The Dn Family has greatly benefited me, and your father treated me like family. However, whether it��s ��gratitude�� or ��love,�� these are intangible feelings that exist only in the heart. Since hearts cannot directly touch, there are insurmountable barriers between people.��


    Banjeet continued, ��But the existence of the Family Rebirth Dream breaks those barriers, allowing everyone��s hearts to intertwine directly, letting everyone experience the inner world of strangers firsthand.��


    ��Things like love, listening,municating, and ying are just its manifestations. The real terror lies in emotions bing tangible entities. Everyone��s interactions are genuine; there��s no pretense. This is why the family is solid as a rock, and this is the frightening aspect of Familial Love.��


    ��Anyone who has experienced this cannot leave the family-just as you would struggle to ept a chaotic, dirty den after living in a clean, rule-abiding city.��


    ��Miss, you have never experienced theplete Family Rebirth Dream. All minors can only stay in their own dream and don��t have the work�� function unlocked, and you left Senhaeser before you came of age.��


    ��If I had known about your n earlier, I would have definitely tried to stop you. Vamora is the final form of the family, and ordinary people simply cannot escape this sweet prison.��


    ��Then how did youter defect from Senhaeser?�� Igor suddenly asked.


    ��Because I needed to protect the Miss,�� Banjeet said frankly. ��My care for the Miss surpasses everything, including myself and the family. That��s how I could resist the contamination and assimtion of Familial Love.��


    ��Do any of you possess selfless love?�� Banjeet asked.


    ��I once did.��


    Everyone was stunned to hear this from the least likely person��the necromancer, Harvey. He silently lit a second catnip cigarette, trying to add physical strain to alleviate his stress.


    ��So, are you opposing me?�� Annan��s tone was filled with unconcealed displeasure, but her gaze wasn��t on Banjeet. She was looking at her reflection in the wine ss��her true frustration seemed not to be with the opposition.


    ��No, Dn��s will is my destiny,�� Banjeet immediately responded.


    ��So,�� Ashe steered the conversation back on track, ��our next task is to enter the Family Rebirth Dream and be a promiscuous lover?��


    ��To be precise, it��s their task,�� Annan said, quickly regaining herposure and returning to her strategic self, the Purple Moth. ��You and Lise don��t need to participate.��

 Chapter 331: Forcing the Beautiful Elf Patriarch to Surrender

    Chapter 331: Forcing the Beautiful Elf Patriarch to Surrender


    ��Why!�� Ashe widened his eyes. ��It��s bad enough with Lise, but now that we finally have some benefits�� No, this is such an important mission. I must advance and retreat together with mypanions. How can I let them fight alone while I sit back and reap the rewards?��


    ��Your fame is too great,�� Annan shrugged. ��You yourself are the top work on the Art Ranking. Now, you��re wanted by the Kingdom of Gospel, and countless Red Hats are waiting to take your head for a promotion and a raise.��


    ��If you show up on a second ranking list, I can��t even imagine what kind of upheaval it would cause.��


    ��Speaking of Red Hats, I��ve always had a question��are we really safe here?�� Igor asked. ��Both the Happy Family Firm and Azura��s Red Hats know we are in Vamora. Can Senhaeser hold them off? And there are five other major families in Vamora����


    ��So far, the only one with a bounty on their head is Ashe. As long as Senhaeser insists she doesn��t know Ashe, the other forces can��t openly invade Vamora,�� Annan said. ��As for the underground�� it��s quite unfortunate for them. Vamora��s nearly bloated family structure has squeezed out any space for underground forces. The sewers here only have Beauty Houttuynia and no mermaid organizations responsible for crime. Instead, there are a few Siren n members within Senhaeser��s ranks.��


    Igor sharply questioned, ��What if Qenna betrays us? Do you think the Pact can restrain her?��


    ��I don��t think she will,�� Annan saw that Igor wanted to say more, so she added, ��You��d better hope she doesn��t either��I��m just a very pretty firm manager. Don��t think I can cover all bases. If I had a 100% sess rate in everything I do, why would I need to use you as cannon fodder? Now, put your hands out.��


    As everyone extended their hands, Annan took out a stamp and pressed it on each person��s hand. The stamp��s base color was dark green, depicting a female elf holding a sapling.


    ��This is the Senhaeser family heraldry. When it heats up, it signifies that the Family Rebirth Dream has begun. Press it firmly to enter the dream. Senhaeser��s dream usually starts around 8 PM each night.��Annan looked at Ashe and Lise. ��I have no performance expectations from you, but you must also enter the Family Rebirth Dream. Otherwise, the ��toxins�� umted from the Beauty Mist will destroy your emotional thresholds. Lise, being underage, can only stay in a solo dream. Ashe, I don��t care what you do, but you don��t seem like the romantic type. If you manage to get on the ranking list just by casually dating, I��ll ept it.��


    ��I have another question,�� Ashe asked. ��Why is it guaranteed to win if I date your mom�� I mean, Qenna?��


    Annan nced at him. ��It��s simple. If you date someone else, you��re just seen as having the potential to start a family. But if you gain Qenna��s favor, Gospel will see you as having the capacity to govern millions as a patriarch.��


    ��To put it in game terms, ordinary people are just minor monsters, while Qenna is the strongest boss in Vamora. Defeating minor monsters makes you a regr adventurer, but defeating the boss makes you a hero.��


    ��So��,�� Lise suddenly spoke, ��if we don��t act, could the second ranking list include big sister Qenna?��


    Annan replied, ��It originally would.��


    Igor asked, ��Originally?��


    ��After seeing the chaotic works on the Art Ranking, do you think Vamora can escape unscathed?�� Annan sneered. ��There��s no guarantee that Senhaeser will even exist in the future.��


    ��Despite how overbearing Qenna seems, she��s more nervous than anyone. Chaos is a family��s worst enemy, and war is a poison to heritage. She must find a way for Senhaeser to survive in these turbulent times. Right now, Dn is her only lifeline.��


    ��If you get involved with her and help Senhaeser survive, she might even thank you, maybe even make it real.��


    Ashe understood, but still felt odd: If someone else had suggested this, it might be different, but the issue was that Qenna was Annan��s biological mother. Annan was rationally proposing Qenna as a target��


    But Ashe looked around and realized he seemed to be the only one feeling odd about it.


    Annan and Banjeet were one thing, but Igor and Harvey,ing from Blood Moon, had no concept of bloodline ethics, and Lise�� well, Ashe hadn��t asked, but if Lise had parents, she wouldn��t have crossed kingdoms (Lise��s current identity was still that of an orphan from another kingdom).


    When no one else cares, but you do, maybe you��re the odd one.


    So Ashe quickly epted this setup, and then had a sh of insight.


    ��Can we tell Qenna about our n?��


    Drawing everyone��s attention, Ashe excitedly said, ��We could say something like, ��The future of Senhaeser is likely doomed, but if you agree to date me, Gospel might spare Senhaeser because of me. And if I win the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, I won��t neglect you������


    As Ashe spoke, his voice trailed off. Igor couldn��t help but p, ��Brilliant! No wonder you��re the criminal savior who led us scoundrels out of prison. You quickly came up with a despicable n to force a beautiful Elf patriarch to surrender using the family name!��


    Harvey stubbed out his cigarette and added, ��Sorry, Ashe, I used to doubt if you were pretending to be innocent. Now I realize I was the naive one.��


    Seeing the disdain in Annan and Banjeet��s eyes, Ashe hurried to exin, ��That��s not what I meant-��


    ��I believe Dad. He definitely didn��t mean it that way!��


    Ashe, moved, held Lise��s small hand, ��At a critical moment, my sweet daughter understands me!��


    ��Based on my experience ying games with Dad, Dad will definitely go back on his word once he benefits,�� Lise dered confidently. ��So, Dad will use Qenna big sister and then dump her, never letting her be my stepmom!��


    Ashe��s face darkened immediately, ��You��re dead. I��ll find you a stepmom who��s extremely petty, jealous, and will torment you every day.��


    ��I don��t mind you telling Qenna about the n,�� Annan said leisurely. ��But I��m afraid of dying, so I��m not going. You go by yourself.��


    Ashe: ��Igor, you��re good-looking. Qenna won��t p your face.��


    Igor: ��Harvey, you love sleeping in coffins. Now you have a legitimate reason to get in one.��


    Harvey: ��She��s too old. I��m not interested.��


    Everyone blinked, and Ashe asked in confusion, ��Harvey, isn��t your hunting range from eight to eighty?��


    Harvey nodded, ��Yes, but I can tell by smelling that Qenna is beyond that range.��


    Ashe was puzzled, ��But she��s an Elf. She still looks like a youthful, mature, and charming woman in her twenties or thirties!��


    ��I don��t look at appearances,�� Harvey said calmly. ��Once people die, they��re just a heap of rotten flesh. In daily interactions, I prefer younger souls����


    Annan patted Igor��s shoulder. ��Anyway, the second ranking list depends on you.��


    Lise has a protection mechanism for minors, Ashe better not go, Harvey is unreliable, and Annan suddenly realized she only had one usable person under hermand.


    However, Igor��s face didn��t look too good either, ��But I����


    ��What��s wrong with you? Don��t tell me you have a disease that makes you die from dating?��


    Igor hesitated for a moment, then shook his head, ��I��m just worried that the Family Rebirth Dream won��t have my type.��


    ��Impossible!�� Annan said. ��Tens of thousands of handsome men and beautiful women, all sorts of types from different races, there��s bound to be someone you like. Unless you have an irreceable ��white moonlight�� in your heart, then you might find it hard to desire others�� do you?��


    ��Don��t worry, Miss,�� Ashe said. ��He��s a Bewitcher who is loved by everyone and desired by all. In his pursuit of power, he harbors an arrogance towards all beings. ying with emotions is as easy for him as breathing. How could he have someone he likes? Forget a few rtionships, by the 20th, the number of his girlfriends might even be categorized in the ranking list.��


    From these days of interaction, Annan also felt that Igor was a cold-hearted emotional maniptor, so she felt reassured and notified the maid to serve the dishes.


    Igor took the opportunity to excuse himself to the bathroom, where he opened the Gospel Book in a stall.


    ��Does dating someone I have no desire for or don��t like count as dating ording to Gospel?��


    Gospel Book: ��No (consumes 5 Gospel points).��


    Oh no, Annan picked up four useless people this time, Igor thought.

 Chapter 332: Senhaesers Dream

    Chapter 332: Senhaesers Dream


    After dinner, Ashe returned to the gaming floor to continue his battle against the Extreme Mode.


    Before parting ways, he had created an Advanced Substitute for Little Lise and casually asked why the Substitute had disappeared. ording to Ashe��s initial spellforce, the Advanced Substitute should havested the entire day, but by the afternoon, Ashe felt his Substitute had vanished.


    Lise innocently replied that she didn��t know either. She hadn��t made the Substitute do any heavy work; it just carried her a bit, sang a few songs, and helped her grab some books.


    Ashe figured that thebined effect of two spirits might have increased the spellforce consumption, so he didn��t think too much of it and handed over the Substitute��s order permissions to Lise, letting her take it away.


    However, the Substitute behaved rather strangely, looking back at Ashe every few steps, as if it had a lot to say.


    But Ashe, eager to y Epic, had no time to focus on the signals from the Substitute. His mind was preupied with whether he should switch his gaming profession.


    The original ount holder��s main profession was a battle sorcerer, so Ashe initially yed as a battle sorcerer too. However, he discovered that in high-difficulty raids, the hardest profession to y was the healing sorcerer, followed by the damage-absorbing sorcerer, andstly, the battle sorcerer.


    Of course, the healing sorcerer in Epic wasn��t a ��life profession�� performing surgeries in a hospital, but more akin to a ��battlefield medic.�� In Epic, healing sorcerers are primarily responsible for timely healing and group defense, damage-absorbing sorcerers for attracting enemy attention and leading enemy skills, and battle sorcerers simply need to find safe opportunities to unleash bursts of damage.


    Due to the high enemy damage in high-difficulty raids, it��s easy for the team to suffer casualties or even wipe out. Therefore, thepetency of the healing sorcerer is crucial to the team��s survival. While a battle sorcerer cking off merely means the enemy isn��t defeated, a healing sorcerer cking off means the team gets defeated.After careful consideration, Ashe decided to switch his profession to a healing sorcerer.


    He realized that many teams�� strategic decisions andmands were made by healing sorcerers. In fact, healing sorcerers stationed at the rear had a better overall view of the situation, making them ideal formand positions. Additionally, apetent healing sorcerer needed to be aware of each team member��s condition, which required a level of tactical expertise surpassing that of battle sorcerers and damage-absorbing sorcerers.


    ording to the principle of equal responsibilities and rights, healing sorcerers, bearing such significant responsibilities, naturally are granted highermand authority.


    Aspiring to be the team��smander, Ashe naturally needed to take on the challenge of the most difficult profession.


    Although Ashe currently didn��t possess a Healing Miracle, the ��sword body barrier�� was definitely a remote shield miracle. It had saved the sword Princess Witch from danger multiple times, positioning him as a healing sorcerer in his current team.


    There was also a minor reason: after a whole afternoon, his battle sorcerer ount had gained a bad reputation. No team tackling Extreme Mode wanted to let him in, so Ashe had no choice but to switch his profession to a healing sorcerer and sneak into a newbie raid team, hoping he wouldn��t be recognized.


    After reading some strategies, Ashe felt the heraldry on the back of his hand heating up, indicating that Senhaeser��s Family Rebirth Dream had been activated.


    Should he go in and check it out?


    Ashe was somewhat hesitant. He was quite interested in this small Virtual Realm, especially since it was described as a free Carnival dream world, which sounded a lot more fun than Epic.


    However, after what Banjeet had told him, Ashe also felt a bit apprehensive. He had confidence in his self-control, but if there were dozens of Elves, housewives, queens, long straight ck-haired beauties, twin-tailed blondes, white-haired girls, and other types of women clinging to him, he might end up renaming himself Ashe Senhaeser.


    But if he didn��t go��?


    Annan didn��t have any performance requirements for him, but Ashe had developed a driven mindset to strive for sess.


    Let��s not forget, although Ashe had sessfully drawn the healing soul item, allowing him toe online in time before the next Spider Tower round, solving the immediate problem at hand.


    Now he needed to face the second challenge��how would they handle the Empress�� heroic soul legion��s pursuit once they entered the Virtual Realm?


    And it wasn��t just a pursuit for a day or two. As long as Ashe and his twopanions hadn��t climbed to the third level of the Virtual Realm, they would have to deal with a heroic soul legion withbat power hundreds of times greater than theirs in each Spider Tower round.


    The crisis wasn��t only within the Virtual Realm. In reality, the other end of Ashe��s Pact lock was still being wielded by Annan.


    This time, Ashe was lucky enough not to be forced into a romantic situation by Annan, but who��s to say that next time she wouldn��t make him clean a cesspit, leaving him covered in filth?


    Was there any way to put an end to these troubles once and for all?


    The term that came to his mind was like a thirsty beast, eagerly drawing all his thoughts: the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.


    With the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, whether it was Annan, the Gospel Book, or the Empress�� heroic soul, these problems would no longer be an issue.


    If Ashe could make it onto the second Future Ranking list, it would likely increase his chances of obtaining the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.


    Just then, the Gospel Book suddenly popped open by itself, turning to the page of Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook.


    ��Operator ��apocalypse observer�� has triggered a personal exclusive story quest.��


    ��A new module ��Senhaeser��s Dream�� has been unlocked.��


    To this day, this lousy game still had features he hadn��t yed?


    In the upper right corner of the ��virtual realm exploration�� section, there was a small ��Senhaeser��s Dream�� icon, like a fleeting temporary event task bar.


    Clicking on ��Senhaeser��s Dream,�� Ashe saw an unprecedented sight��this event wasn��t nk but had exquisite event illustrations!


    ��Inside a high-rise office shrouded in white mist, an elegant and enchanting Beautiful Red Hat Elf sat on a throne, overlooking Vamora city through the floor-to-ceiling windows like a queen ruling the city! Beside her was a younger, more spirited Red Hat Elf, whispering in her ear.��


    On either side of the event illustration were two options: ��Dream Shard Redemption Shop�� and ��Dream Expedition.��


    ��Dream Expedition: You can now embark on a dream expedition. Each expedition will yield a varying amount of dream shards.��


    Ashe first checked out the ��Dream Shard Redemption Shop�� and was instantly dazzled by the rewards: various Experience Orbs, not to mention the ��Five Spirits of the Peerless Secret Sword Random Gift Box,�� the ��Time Spirit Random Gift Box,�� the ��Prophecy Spirit Random Gift Box,�� and other miraculous items that he might never obtain even after a lifetime of grinding in the Virtual Realm!


    Ashe hurriedly clicked on ��dream expedition,�� only to be immediately jolted awake:


    ��Warning: Operator��s soul damage detected. Participation in dream expedition is not rmended.��


    Damn, my soul still has several days before it fully recovers, and by then, we might have already left Vamora!


    However, Ashe noticed that the expedition button wasn��t grayed out, so he clicked it again:


    ��Soul damage detected in operator. ��Substitute�� and ��orders�� spirits detected. It is rmended that the operator dispatch a substitute for the dream expedition to avoid further soul damage.��


    ��Note ��: The substitute can still be used normally in reality during the dream expedition.��


    ��Note ��: During the dream expedition, the operator cannot obtain any dream intelligence or control the substitute��s actions, only the expedition��s rewards. Please choose wisely.��


    Thump!


    Ashe felt his heart racing, his breathing quickening, and his face heating up, every pore on his body bursting with excitement!


    All he could see was that sentence����It is rmended that the operator dispatch a substitute for the dream expedition!��


    He could finally send a substitute to work in his ce!


    Auto-dungeon runs!


    Proxymands!


    Earning rewards while lying down!


    What more could he ask for!?


    ��Dream Expedition�� �C ��Dispatch Substitute�� �C ��Select Expedition Target,�� Ashe opened the list and found that one of the options was indeed to engage in a romantic affair.


    Then, three more options popped up on the screen.


    ��Please choose the substitute��s action style����


    ��Apocalypse Observer: Calm type, suitable for intelligence gathering, sowing discord, creating chaos, etc. (Not rmended).��


    ��Death Maniac Sword Princess: Frenzied type, suitable for creating chaos, killing, arson, assassination, sabotage, etc. (Not rmended).��


    ��ck and White Witch: Joyful type, suitable for creating chaos, role-ying, manipting emotions, etc. (Rmended).��


    Instead of dispatching a real operator, it was just having the substitute mimic one of these action styles�� Naturally, Ashe followed the game��s rmendation.


    ��Dream Expedition�� �C ��Dispatch Substitute�� �C ��Romantic Affair�� �C ��Action Style (ck and White Witch),�� confirm!


    The heraldry on the back of his hand stopped heating up, and the in-game ��dream expedition�� status changed to ��in progress.��


    Ashe blinked.


    Was it really that simple?


    So�� am I really free now?


    Since Ashe had nothing else to do, he decided to switch his profession to healing sorcerer and mess around in the game.


    In Lise��s room, Little Lise was talking to the mirror, saying who knows what, while the Substitute was hunched over the desk, browsing various ancient books. Whenever it encountered keywords like ��Gospel Incarnation,�� ��Yisuo Royal Family,�� or ��Armored,�� it would fold the page.


    Once Deya and her sisters discovered that the Substitute had some level of intelligence, they decisively stopped Lise from exhausting its physical strength and switched to more advanced mental tasks.


    Their Gospel points were still too few, so they didn��t qualify to directly inquire about deeper secrets. They could only hope to find some clues in the literature. Luckily, Senhaeser��s family had been prosperous for hundreds of years; otherwise, they wouldn��t have found so many materials.


    Suddenly, the back of the Substitute��s hand heated up slightly.


    The Substitute was momentarily dazed, then continued working.


    At the same time, within the white Dream, a figure quietly appeared.


    She looked at her Substitute��s appearance, spun around, and transformed into the appearance of the ��ck and White Witch�� portrait.


    ��If you��re happy and you know it, p your hands~��


    ��If you��re happy and you know it, nod your head~��


    ��If you��re happy and you know it, then we��ll all go together~!��


    By the time she finished singing the three lines, seventeen sisters had appeared around her. They were dressed differently, had different hair colors, and their expressions varied greatly, but their faces were identical.


    ��Do we really have to date that man on his behalf?��


    ��Such a hassle����


    ��Annoying, don��t involve me in this.��


    ��Do we have to transform into him? No way, he��s so ugly.��


    ��Hey? I think he��s kind of cute, at least cuter than the Observer.��


    ��When you put it that way, it��s hard for me to argue with you. After all, there might not be anything more unappealing than the Observer even at the bottom of the Abyss.��


    ��Hungry, cake, red velvet cake, I want red velvet cake!��


    As soon as the sisters appeared, they started expressing their opinions. Soon, opinions turned into arguments, arguments turned into screams, and screams turned into howls, almost shattering the white Dream with the noise-


    ��Shhh.��


    The Witch gently ced a finger on her lips, and all fell silent.


    ��We are only here temporarily thanks to Ashe��s Substitute. Regardless, we still need toplete our mission. As for appearance, gender, and race, it doesn��t matter. We just need to resemble Ashe enough so that the Gospel will attribute our romantic escapades to his flirtatiousness.��


    ��As long as you make sure to develop a romance, you can do whatever you want with the rest of your time-don��t forget, this is the unrestrained Family Dream. Whatever you want to do, someone will join you in your madness.��


    ��Oh, and don��t forget about the Secret Incarnation.��


    The Witch waved her hand, and a Gospel Book appeared in her grasp. The other sisters followed suit, each holding a Gospel Book.


    ��With our own ounts and the permissions of the Secret Incarnation, we can ess most of the data and intelligence for free. While we can��t speak of it outside and can only use it here�� you all know how to take advantage of this intelligence, right?��


    ��Read her desires!��


    ��Be her favorite!��


    ��Confuse her mind!��


    The sisters�� eyes gleamed as they chanted wicked slogans, disappearing one by one into the mist.


    ��Well, I��d better start too.�� The Witch murmured, ��Miss Annan, the Elf patriarch, the not-yet-corrupted White Queen, the sane ck Butler, the Scarlet Dead Apostles I haven��t killed yet, and����


    ��Damn, I want to y with every single one of them. Which one should I start with?��

 Chapter 333: Heart Wall

    Chapter 333: Heart Wall


    The back of his hand was burning.


    Igor had returned to his room early, wearing only a coral fleece robe. For safety��s sake, he had prepared an ��Igor figurine�� when entering the dream, but his original self wasn��t hidden elsewhere; it was inside the figurine.


    Illusions and reality, truth and lies, battling wits with the air��such was the daily life of a Con Artist.


    He stared at the heraldry glowing and heating up on the back of his hand. With his Golden level Mental Sect Realm, he deduced that the fuel for the burning heraldry was his own positive emotions.


    This was a grand Miracle: within the Senhaeser District, as long as the main heraldry activated a Miracle, all the subsidiary heraldries would respond. This heraldry held no secrets; the Miracle was judged based on the heraldry pattern, meaning Igor could draw a heraldry for himself if he wished.


    From this wed heraldry authentication method, it was clear that the six Vamora families didn��t actually prohibit outsiders from entering the Family Dream. One step in Annan��s original n was to hide in other Vamora families. Igor had previously wondered what leverage she had to bring a group of strangers into other families. Now it seemed that joining a Vamora heraldry family might be as easy as entering a Tea House. You could be pulled in just by passing by.


    The problem was, joining was easy, but leaving was difficult.


    Tea Houses use beauty to retain your body, while families use love to melt your soul.


    Recalling Banjeet��s warning, Igor felt a bit hesitant.As someone who studied the Mental Sect, he naturally understood the saying ��a good swimmer drowns.�� He never challenged addictive traps like sugar, murder, or gambling, despite his mental prowess��in fact, Igor had only ever caused others�� deaths but had never killed anyone himself. Gambling was merely a work tool; he never indulged in it for leisure.


    The more a mental sorcerer explores the boundaries of the mind, the more restrained they be. Only the ignorant believe they can ��ovee sugar addiction,�� ��kill without remorse,�� or ��gamble moderately.�� But the wise avoid these potential threats to their sanity from the start.


    Entering the Family Rebirth Dream was akin to a gas canister serving as an attendant at a gas station. In the past, Igor would have outright refused such a task.


    However.


    Publicly, Igor was currently living under someone else��s roof. Unlike Banjeet, who had once changed Annan��s diapers, he had no standing to oppose her.


    Privately, Igor also wanted to appear on the second Future Ranking list.


    The Divine Sovereign��s Wish and the Future Ranking��either was enough to pique a Con Artist��s interest. When Annan proposed the n to spheme the Divine Sovereign, Igor had already resolved to join. As an ambitious social engineer, he found it hard to resist such a grand scheme to deceive the entire world.


    Besides poetry and distantnds, Igor had to consider the immediate dangers. They were still not out of harm��s way. Not to mention the Red Hat and the Firm, Annan and Qenna were also threats close at hand.


    To increase his chances of survival, Igor needed to demonstrate his value��when your value is high enough, others will clean up your mess. Ashe was a prime example of this.


    After casting ��Heart of Stone�� and ��Iron Will�� on himself, Igor��s mind was now unshakable. Even if the sky were falling, it wouldn��t affect his emotions.


    He didn��t n to take action on the first night of the dream journey. Instead, he intended to conduct a trial run, investigating the dream��s situation as thoroughly as possible without getting addicted.


    Focusing his consciousness on the burning heraldry, Igor felt his soul rise like a wisp of smoke, in apletely different direction from sinking into the Virtual Realm. When Igor opened his eyes, he found himself in a vast, white expanse, standing alone.


    He looked up and saw many bubbles above.


    Just by scanning them with his eyes, he could roughly discern what worldsy within the bubbles: feasts of countless delicacies, arenas of legendary sorcerers, serene fishing spots on misty waters, battlefields where thousands perished��


    These worlds had many participants. When Igor thought of ��romance,�� the bubbles instantly changed, disying various romantic worlds, ranging from 1v1 to 100v1 scenarios.


    Igor didn��t rush to begin directly. Instead, he adjusted his appearance to prevent being recognized. Having a habit of disguising himself through makeup and costumes, he was skilled at altering his face.


    ��Image No. 78: Literary Bewitcher Girl.��


    To thoroughly conceal his identity, Igor even used a rarely employed female form,plete with a different voice. Now, not even Harvey and Ashe could recognize him.


    ��Hello there!��


    A voice emerged from the white mist, causing Igor to pause momentarily. He quickly realized that while he was searching for ��romance�� bubbles, he had also be someone else��s ��romance�� bubble, prompting someone to approach him directly.


    From the voice, it sounded like a girl?


    As footsteps approached from the white mist, blue and green hues began to spread. The sky turned a clear blue, the ground transformed into lush greenery, and a cool breeze brushed against his face��this was the greatest charm of the Family Rebirth Dream. Each dream was an independent world, with the environment changing ording to the dreamer��s desires. It was as if one��s wishes coulde true effortlessly.


    Soon, Igor saw his first�� romance match.


    She was short, about 1.5 meters tall, with a fluffy tail behind her. She wore an oversized gradient dark red trench coat and a mask that Igor found somewhat familiar��?


    As soon as she saw Igor, she enthusiastically waved and ran towards him��


    Thud.


    Halfway through, she tripped over her own feet and fell t on the grass, lying there without getting up.


    This appearance, this clumsiness, this personality��


    Igor remained silent for a moment, then walked over and squatted beside her. ��What��s wrong?��


    ��Gotcha!�� The girl in the dark red trench coat suddenly jumped up and hugged Igor tightly, pushing him to the ground. She rubbed her face against Igor��s freshly created female face, giggling, ��Big sister, do you want to date me?!��


    Feeling the softness of the adorable person in his arms, Igor��s face remained unchanged, maintaining the cold and calm demeanor typical of a literary girl.


    Luckily, he had prepared thoroughly!


    Good thing he had cast ��Heart of Stone�� and ��Iron Will�� on himself! Thisbination was enough to form an imprable Heart Wall!


    His heart remainedpletely unmoved!


    Battling wits with the air had its rewards!


    Quick, this is the trap of the Family Rebirth Dream, this is Qenna��s scheme. Punch this annoying woman away immediately, or it��ll be toote!


    Crack.


    Hiss.


    Igor was startled��what was that sound?


    It sounded like�� stone shattering and iron rusting?


    ��What��s your name?�� the girl in the dark red trench coat asked, holding Igor��s neck, her eyes sparkling. ��I��m Xiao Xi.��


    ��I��m�� Irina.��


    The Heart Wall�� couldn��t hold on any longer.

 Chapter 334: Are All You Blood Moon People Crazy?

    Chapter 334: Are All You Blood Moon People Crazy?


    On azy afternoon, sunlight was sliced into squares by the treehouse window, mingling with the aroma of coffee and ink, and spreading like a dip on the carpet where Xiao Xiy.


    Igor sat nearby, holding a book titled The Ten Rules of a Con Artist, with a steaming cup of coffee in front of him. He asked, ��Comfortable?��


    ��Yes, very. Half of me is in the sun, the other half isn��t. I��m half warm, half cool,�� Xiao Xi replied, rolling around on the carpet with herrge tail. ��Irina,e lie down too. Stop reading.��


    ��No, I prefer����


    Before Igor could finish his refusal, Xiao Xi dragged him onto the floor. The treehouse transformed, the roof opened up, and in an instant, afternoon turned to deep night. The stars sparkled, the Milky Way shimmered, and the countless stars greeted them.


    ��I thought you would like the starry sky,�� Xiao Xi said, lying next to Igor.


    ��Yes, I am only mesmerized by two things�� the starry sky and moralws. The former represents the greatness of nature, thetter highlights the brilliance of humanity. Only these two things make me feel small.��


    ��But���� Igor raised his hand to the sky, fingers gently spreading. A Blood Moon, full of oppressive presence, appeared between his fingers. It scattered countless stars instantly, like a giant eye of surveince dominating the earth. ��This is the night sky I��m familiar with.��


    ��But it no longer exists,�� Xiao Xi said, reaching out to crush the Blood Moon. ��Whether in dreams or reality, you don��t have to live under the light of this Blood Moon anymore.����Let��s go,�� Xiao Xi said, pulling Igor along. ��Let��s go on an adventure!��


    They ventured through ancient forests towering into the sky, mysterious underground pces filled with traps, eerie cities where residents vanished overnight, mountain viges worshiping mysterious religions�� It was unclear whether these were pre-fabricated bubbles of the Dream or treasures from Xiao Xi��s mind. The two girls braved these dangerousnds together, with Xiao Xi charging ahead recklessly and Igor gathering intelligence and solving puzzles. Sometimes they were chased by rolling boulders, other times they marveled at breathtaking, magnificent sights.


    Finally exhausted from their adventures, the twoy on the grass under the shade of a tree, inhaling the scent of grass from each other andzily seeming to want to fall asleep in the Dream.


    ��Hey, let��s continue ying together tomorrow!�� Xiao Xi said enthusiastically. ��Tomorrow, let��s challenge the mysterious underwater city. But we should both add Siren bloodlines to ourselves, otherwise, it will be difficult to solve the breathing problem underwater����


    ��Just the two of us again?�� Igor asked.


    ��Yes, just the two of us,�� Xiao Xi said matter-of-factly. ��I don��t want to meet more people. When there are many people, there are conflicts. With more than three people, small groups form, and more voices mean noise.��


    ��The three words I hate most are humans, society, andmunication. My ideal way of living is just the two of us��never lonely, and any conflict can be resolved quickly. We don��t even need to talk; we can understand each other with just our eyes. What about you?��


    Igor was slightly stunned. He looked at the sunlight, fragmented by the leaves, and nodded lightly. ��Me too. I hate meeting strangers, hatemunicating with others, and hate a society full of tangled interests.��


    ��Right, right!�� Xiao Xi excitedly leaned over next to Igor. ��It��s a deal. Tomorrow, we��ll continue our adventure together��just the two of us!��


    However, Igor didn��t reply. The sunlight quietly receded, and dark clouds took over the sky.


    ��No need to consider interpersonal rtionships, no need to think about conspiracies, just freely use my intelligence, adventuring with the person I trust most, entering uninhabited mysterious ces, and witnessing long-hidden wonders�� This indeed is my most desired dream life.��


    The wind began to blow, and the grass bent slightly. The leaves made a sound like crying.


    Xiao Xi: ��But?��


    ��But dreams are dreams because they are unattainable,�� Igor said, sitting up. ��Dreams that can be easily realized are meaningless.��


    Xiao Xi also sat up. ��But aren��t we dreaming right now?��


    Crack! With a sh of lightning across the sky, it first started drizzling, then turned into a torrential downpour with gusts of wind. The shade of the tree was no longer a refuge for them, and the rain soaked Igor��s hair, blurring Xiao Xi��s face.


    ��Why is it raining?�� Xiao Xi pulled out arge umbre from somewhere and sheltered herself and Igor together under it. ��Irina, do you like the sound of rain?��


    ��I don��t like the rain, but it always rains here, and I��m always caught in it,�� Igor said. ��That��s why dreaming is pointless. You can stay with me now, but when you leave, I��ll still be in the rain.��


    ��I will stay with you until the end.��


    ��The end and forever are actually the same word, meaning ��a future so distant that I will break my promise.����


    ��But our future is not distant,�� Xiao Xi blinked. ��When the Weaving Festival ends, that day will be our end.��


    ��You don��t have to walk thest stretch alone. We bought the same ticket to the end, and we��ll arrive at the terminal station together.��


    Igor looked at her calmly. ��Are you really going to stay with me?��


    ��Yes.��


    ��No regrets?��


    ��No regrets.��


    ��Phew.�� Igor sighed. ��Alright then.��


    The rain stopped, the wind calmed, and just when Xiao Xi thought Igor had finally opened up, the ground suddenly shook violently. The earth sunk into an arena, with the surroundings rising to form spectator stands. The spotlight shone only on the sandy center at the bottom.


    ��Do you know where this is?��


    Xiao Xi looked up and saw that Igor was no longer dressed like a literary girl but was wearing a tightbat outfit, wrapping bandages around his arms.


    ��This is the Deathmatch arena of Shattered Lake Prison,�� Igor said calmly. ��I used to break the ulna of countless thugs here, plunder the property of numerous bad guys. To put it bluntly, I survived by absorbing the nutrients of the dead.��


    ��But Irina, you already left-��


    ��I never left.�� Igor shook his head. ��I just moved from one Shattered Lake to another. As long as I don��t change, everywhere is a prison that confines me.��


    ��But you can change now,�� Xiao Xi said anxiously. ��I will change with you! Don��t you want to escape that loathsome life, to rid yourself of that loathsome self?��


    ��Yes, I do.�� Igor lowered his eyes. ��My soul urges me to ept you, my Heart Wall has beenpletely destroyed by you. Your words, your values, your appearance, everything about you is my ideal type. Although I don��t know who you really are or how you knew my preferences, even if you are a trap, you havepletely entered my heart.��


    ��Then why����


    ��Therefore,�� Igor took a battle stance, ��you must die.��


    Xiao Xi was stunned,pletely unable to understand the logic of the Con Artist.


    ��Although I would love to invade the Blood Moon with the Gospel army, there are still many valuable lessons from Blood Moon education,�� Igor said coldly. ����Every rtionship that worries you will pollute you,�� ��Every rtionship that makes you feel wronged will hurt you,�� ��Every rtionship that changes you will control you���� Personality freedom is fundamental, especially for a mental sorcerer.��


    ��If I change to the point where I��m no longer myself, how is that different from being dead?��


    ��I never kill, unless someone crosses my bottom line,�� Igor said seriously. ��And my bottom line is��anyone who can enter my heart, anyone who can break my Heart Wall, must die!��


    ��I already gave you a chance, but you refused to leave.��


    ��Wait, wait���� Xiao Xi backed away, waving her hands. ��Your view of love is wed. There is selfless love that changes for others in this world����


    ��Sorry, but your view is wed,�� Igor said. ��The first rule of the Con Artist: believe that everyone in this world is selfish.��


    When Igor charged at her, Xiao Xi was dumbfounded.


    The information didn��t mention that Igor had this kind of trap��rarely falling for anyone, but once he does, he has to kill them to maintain his purity��how do you find a bnce in that?


    You Blood Moon people are really messed up!


    ��Also,�� as Igor rushed into her arms, Xiao Xi heard him say something very strange, ��I��ve always wanted revenge.��


    Revenge for what?


    Bang!


    With a full-force punch from the Con Artist, Xiao Xi��s figure exploded like a bubble!


    ��Phew.��


    Igor let out a long breath, lying on the sand exhausted, raising his fist high, his face flushed with excitement.


    ��Damn, I really want to punch him in reality too.��

 Chapter 335: Internal Resolution

    Chapter 335: Internal Resolution


    Meanwhile, Lise and her sisters finally reached an agreement.


    Lise would stay in the real world to watch over their bodies, while the others would enter the Family Dream.


    ��Why is it always me who has to stay behind!?�� Lise pouted. ��Lise wants to y in the dream too! The Virtual Realm didn��t let me go, and now the dream won��t either!?��


    Seeing Little Lise throw a tantrum, her sisters remained unfazed. The White Queen said, ��Lise, you know we have a mission in the dream this time, right?��


    ��Yeah! Isn��t it just about falling in love? Lise can do that too!�� Little Lise boasted, hands on her hips.


    The White Queen replied, ��Then, our smartest Lise, can you tell me how many people it takes to fall in love?��


    ��Um�� two people, right?�� Lise held up two fingers.


    ��That��s correct, it takes two people to fall in love. But as Banjeet mentioned earlier, the other strangers in the Family Dream are scary adults. You wouldn��t want to fall in love with them, would you?��


    Lise shook her head vigorously. ��No way! Their eyes are so scary!����So, we can only rely on internal resolution,�� the White Queen exined. ��I n to fall in love with the ck Butler, and the Secret Princess will fall in love with the Scarlet Dead Apostles.��


    Given the dangers in the Family Dream, Deya and her sisters wouldn��t recklessly venture in. They had one significant advantage over others��they weren��t just individuals!


    Ashe��s suggestion was spot on. Since merging with Senhaeser would lead to assimtion, the most prudent strategy was internal resolution. Unlike others who had to find someone to resolve with, Deya and her sisters could handle it internally!


    Lise blinked, taking a few seconds to process this. ��What about me!?��


    The White Queen in the mirror shrugged, ��The five of us will pair up, which means you have to stay behind.��


    ��No, no, no!�� Lise protested, ��I don��t want to be left out! Make me a little sister, and I��ll fall in love with her!��


    ��Creating a sister for that purpose is not eptable!�� the White Queen said. ��Lise, be good. It��s not that we don��t want to take you with us this time, but the conditions simply won��t allow it. Stay in the real world and y as you like. Ashe��s Substitute will help with intelligence gathering, so don��t cause trouble.��


    ��No, Lise can have a partner too!�� Lise suddenly had an idea. ��I can get Dad����


    ��Don��t drag Ashe into the Abyss of crime!�� The White Queen reached out from the mirror and knocked Lise on the head. ��Kids aren��t allowed to fall in love with adults.��


    ��But that��s not what I meant,�� Lise said, rubbing her head. ��If Dad joins us, then there will be six of us. Lise can fall in love with the Scarlet Dead Apostles, and Deya can be with Dad. That way, everyone will be happy!��


    The Scarlet Dead Apostles suddenly interjected, ��Why me?��


    Lise replied, ��Because you��re the nicest to me! You��ve never scolded me!��


    The White Queen couldn��t help butugh in exasperation. Despite being the one who cared the most for Lise, the White Queen was the one Lise feared the most. The Scarlet Dead Apostles, who never took part in Lise��s education, were seen as the nicest sister.


    Feeling her sister��s emotions like a wave, Lise quickly tried to remedy the situation. ��Actually, I like the White Queen too. How about I pair with the White Queen, and the ck Butler can be with Dad����


    ��Just stay home and watch the house!��


    Lise stood at attention. ��Yes, ma��am!��


    When the heraldry on the back of her hand stopped glowing, Lise knew her sisters had entered the Dream. Bored, she tossed and turned on the bed, watching the Substitute diligently flipping through books and doing homework. She went over andy beside him, watching.


    The Substitute continued his meticulous Retrieval of academic materials, seemingly oblivious to her presence.


    ��By the way, Dad��s hair seems really long!�� Lise suddenly pped her hands. ��I should help him cut it.��


    The Substitute hesitated slightly.


    ��But first, I need to learn how to cut hair.��


    The Substitute��s hand started to tremble.


    ��If I can��t find scissors�� oh well, I��ll use a knife!�� Lise picked up a fruit knife. ��Substitute, show me your head!��


    The Substitute slowly pulled back his hood. Whether it was due to the lighting or something else, his face seemed even paler than before.


    The White Queen opened her eyes to a world shrouded in white mist, with a river of colorful bubbles flowing above.


    ��So, this is the Family Dream. It feels quite simr to the Virtual Realm���� She stopped mid-sentence, realizing something was wrong. ��Am I separated from them?��


    Looking down, she saw she wasn��t wearing Deya��s ck and white checkered suit but her own pure white dress. There were no other voices in her mind and no other figures around. This made the White Queen feel slightly uneasy��this might be the first time since her birth that she was separated from her sisters.


    She needed to find them quickly. As soon as the White Queen had this thought, a sudden gust of wind blew away the mist. Feathers descended from the sky, the air filled with musical notes, and the sound of footsteps in polished shoes echoed rhythmically, as if stepping directly on her heart.


    The White Queen turned her head and immediately felt relieved. ��ck Butler?��


    The neer was dressed impably in a ck suit and white gloves, with short, sharp hair and a slight smile. It was indeed the ck Butler she knew, although there was a small difference��she didn��t remember the ck Butler having crimson eyes.


    However, in a dream, appearances could be freely altered. The White Queen thought it was quite restrained of the ck Butler not to transform herself into a man.


    ��ck Butler, we���� The White Queen began to speak, but the ck Butler took her hands, and the ground transformed into a stage. Fireworks erupted around them, dazzling lighting descended from the sky, and the air��s musical notes shifted into a passionate, exhrating nocturne!


    ��Thud!��Thud!��Thud!����


    ��Tap!��Tap!��Tap!����


    Chaos sang, death cheered, the melody of skeletal pianos danced along the beams of light, and the beat of Elf drums guided the dancers�� breaths. Countless corpses raised the stage with all their might, with the demonic red and the fallen gold focusing on the two figures on the stage!


    However, the White Queen��s eyes were already dazzled by the overwhelming lights. Her pupils reflected only the grand, magnificent performance, her ears heard only the exhrating music, and her entire being moved in sync with the person before her!


    ��Here, you can finally rest. No need to worry about the Witches, no need to think about the Observer, no need to fret over Lise. Just immerse yourself in the dazzling, colorful life you��ve always dreamed of, basking in everyone��s admiration, because this is your very own Queen��s Dream.��


    ��Give me your heart,�� the ck Witch said with a charming smile, her voice dripping with a soothing tenderness that could melt anyone.


    ��Hey, White Queen, you����


    The White Witch hugged the ck Butler from behind, inhaling deeply beside her neck. ��You��re actually a very shy and passive child, aren��t you?��


    ��White Queen, something��s off with you,�� the ck Butler said, panicking as she tried to break free, but she was abruptly pushed onto a bed��a bed?


    ��It��s just the two of us now. Whatever happens here, no one will ever know.�� The White Witch grabbed her tie, speaking domineeringly, ��Give me your heart.��


    Meanwhile, Deya, who was studying the Family Dream, turned to see someone who looked exactly like her emerging from the white mist, as if her reflection had stepped out of a mirror.


    ��Little Red?�� Deya asked curiously. ��Why are you wearing my clothes?��


    ��I might be Little Red, or I might not be.��


    The Witch tilted her head with a sly smile. ��Let��s y a game��by the end of tonight, guess who I am?��

 Chapter 336: I Wont Be Fooled!

    Chapter 336: I Wont Be Fooled!


    At 9:00 AM Gospel Time, while handling official duties, Qenna felt the heraldry heating up right on schedule.


    Since the Family Rebirth Dream was a privately funded dreamscape, each activation consumed arge amount of resources. Therefore, it was only open for 4 hours daily, from 8:00 PM to midnight.


    Not everyone could rush into the dreamscape all at once; otherwise, the Senhaeser District woulde to a standstill.


    There were no restrictions on off-duty personnel; the heraldry would heat up precisely at 8:00 PM. However, those required for night duty had to enter the dreamscape in batches ording to the n, ensuring that each functional unit continued to operate normally. This arrangement was mandatory; if it wasn��t your designated time, your heraldry wouldn��t heat up. The rational distribution of time slots was, of course, managed by the great Gospel.


    Unlike ordinary people��s longing for the Gospel, as a patriarch who frequently used it, Qenna had a profound understanding of its power and precision. Therefore, she had unwavering faith in the Art Ranking of the Weaving Festival.


    ording to her investigation, not only other families in Vamora but the entire Kingdom of Gospel had begun strategic stockpiling of materials. All forces were preparing to counter the impending unknown disaster.


    Although Senhaeser was one-sixth of the city lords in Vamora,pared to the entire Gospel, it was just a small family; in the face of a disaster capable of destroying nations and cities, it was merely a tiny ant struggling to survive.


    Qenna was very anxious. Fifty years was not a long time for her; she might very well witness the end of Senhaeser with her own eyes. But she couldn��t show any anxiety on the surface. She was the pir of the family��s spirit and morale. Everyone else could fear, but she couldn��t show any sign of weakness.


    This was also why she protected Annan and the others.Sending Annan and Ashe out was merely an embellishment for the family, insignificant for the future grand scheme; but if Annan and the others could obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, she would have the opportunity to offer help in a critical situation and reap gratitude.


    The Pact was merely bait to keep Annan settled; now that they were all in Senhaeser, they had to enter the Family Dream tonight, which was Qenna��s crucial move.


    Coercion and enticement were never the right path to expansion; only love and family could permanently turn others into family.


    However, Annan had probably seen through her intentions from the beginning.


    Qenna was dissatisfied with many aspects of her daughter, but when it came to cunning, they were evenly matched.


    Even if Annan saw through her ns, she still had to step into the trap obediently. Qenna loved seeing her daughter��s face full of reluctance and defiance yet having toply.


    No one knew that Qenna had intentionally raised Annan this way: intelligent, cunning, and full of rebellion.


    As a genius sorcerer, family patriarch, and Red Hat of the Sanctuary, Qenna hadn��t encountered a worthy opponent in a long time. She didn��t have many friends, and even if she did, none dared to confront her. Coupled with the long life of an Elf, Qenna had started feeling a bit bored.


    So, she decided to create an opponent for herself, a ymate, an adversary��who better to cultivate than her own daughter?


    After giving Annan enough childhood traumas, Qenna let her leave to inherit Dn��s business, waiting for the day she would return to seek revenge. Whether Annan came back to im the family business or destroy Senhaeser, Qenna looked forward to spending herter years in a battle of wits with her daughter.


    Although it seemed like Qenna was coveting Dn��s business, the truth was, for Senhaeser, Dn��s secret legacy was just an embellishment and couldn��t elevate the family further. Seizing Dn��s legacy was merely one of Qenna��s excuses to continue bullying Annan.


    However, the Weaving Festival happened to predict an impending disaster, making Dn��s legacy suddenly crucial�� perhaps this was the reward for bullying her daughter.


    But�� shouldn��t Annan be getting married by now?


    When Qenna first saw Lise, she thought it was Annan and Ashe��s child��after all, from the Art Ranking, it seemed Annan had painted a portrait of Ashe, and it looked like she had been forced by Ashe to do so. However, now Ashe was an employee under Annan��s Pact, a rtionship that easily conjured up a ten-thousand-word narrative of twisted love and rebellion.


    Though it seemed like nothing had sparked between them yet, Qenna had great faith in the Weaving Festival. If it hadn��t happened yet, it certainly would in the future.


    If I send someone to lure Ashe away, would it further ignite Annan��s fighting spirit? It would be best to send someone Annan knows�� Nona would be a good choice��


    As Qenna pondered this, she sank into the Family Dream.


    She didn��t linger at the starting point but went directly into an orange bubble, transforming into an Elf pastry chef and arriving at the pastry factory.


    Many people spected on what the patriarch did in the dream. Some guessed Qenna would go to the Battle Royale bubble, others thought she would enjoy being an interrogator, and some believed she would attend wild Carnival parties. No one would have guessed that Qenna liked making cakes and choctes in the dream.


    Actually, Qenna hadn��t nned it either. It was just that Annan used to love sweets, so Qenna would deliberately make desserts by hand. When little Annan came over wanting to eat, Qenna would set various impossible tasks for her. When little Annan failed and sat aside, craving the sweets to the point of tears, Qenna would slowly enjoy her desserts. This joy made the process of preparing desserts an interesting task in itself.


    The pastry factory bubble was always an unpopr area in the dream, usually frequented by just a few nsmen with simr interests. So, when Qenna arrived tonight, she immediately noticed a new face she hadn��t seen before.


    She nced at the neer but then focused on her task. She intended to make a ck Forest cake tonight. She had made it for Annan before, but little Annan hadn��tpleted the task Qenna set, so she had smeared the ck Forest cake on Annan��s face.


    Smack!


    Qenna paused as the neer sent a bowl of whipped cream flying.


    Ignore him, ignore him��


    Smack! Thud! ng! Smack!


    When he knocked over the cream bowl again, Qenna couldn��t stand it any longer. She walked over and asked, ��Do you even know how to-��


    Her reprimand was cut short.


    In front of Qenna was a clumsy Elf boy who had fallen to the ground. He had a delicate appearance, a small and petite body that wasn��t thin, but soft and plush, as if a squeeze could produce milk. His milky white skin had a rosy hue like an apple, his thin lips slightly pursed, and hisrge eyes held golden irises that made it impossible to look away.


    The pointed Elf ears trembled slightly, and a shy, silly smile hung on his face. His chef��s outfit was a dark red gradient, and he wore ck over-the-knee socks, with just a small section of his snow-white thighs exposed, creating a striking ck-and-white contrast.


    Soft, copsed cream covered his entire body, even a bit on his nose, but it didn��t look dirty at all. Instead, it seemed like a decorative touch on a ck Forest cake, an edible piece of art.


    ��Sorry, I��m not very good at making cakes���� He stared at the floor, his face as red as a beet: ��Did I disturb you����


    ��No worries.��


    Qenna spoke in the gentlest tone she had ever used in her life. She helped the boy up, resisting the urge to hug him directly, and asked, slightly hurriedly, ��What kind of cake do you want to make?��


    ��Red Velvet Cake.�� The boy said, ��My sister likes it. I want to learn how to make it in the dream so I can make it for her in reality.��


    ��Then I��ll teach you how to make it.�� Qenna grabbed his hands without waiting for a response and pulled him into her arms: ��First, I��ll teach you how to whip cream. By the way, what��s your name?��


    ��My name is Xiao Ya����


    Qenna��s heart skipped a beat, but seeing the earnest look on the boy��s face, she couldn��t resist wiping the cream off his nose and putting it in her mouth.


    Upon entering the initial dream, Annan felt a bit dazed.


    It had been over a decade since shest entered the dream. Back then, she was still a minor and could only stay in the designated single-child amusement park. If the Family Rebirth Dream was an ocean, she had at most picked up a few shells on the beach.


    Banjeet��s words were not just a warning to the employees but also a reminder to her, the boss: don��t think that just because you��ve ridden the kindergarten bus, you can handle the adult university bus.


    Although the Purple Moth was at odds with the butler, she wasn��t a rebellious little girl who wouldn��t listen to reason-her rebellion was solely against her mother. Therefore, she nned to stay in her personal dream and spend these few days obediently.


    After all, dating was a job for the employees. Annan neither needed nor had the qualifications topete for a ce on the second ranking list. For someone like her, born and raised in the Gospel, the Gospel had long woven her future, leaving no room for any unknown ��possibilities.��


    But�� what should I y?


    In the Dream, thinking was a redundant physical effort. When Annan came to her senses, the Dream had already transformed into the children��s amusement park she was most familiar with.


    In her childhood, this was the ce she looked forward to the most because her mother couldn��t enter here. She could y as much as she wanted, eat cakes to her heart��s content, doodle freely, and curse without having to worry about Qenna��s reactions.


    Annan found herself transformed into her six or seven-year-old self, wearing her fluffy purple princess dress.


    She wasn��t particrly fond of purple herself, but Qenna hated the color. Anything Qenna disliked, Annan loved.


    Before breaking free from Senhaeser, the only ce she could wear purple clothes was in the Dream.


    This was her Dream, where she couldn��t hide her deepest desires. Fortunately, no one knew what happened in the Dream, or she��d have no idea how to maintain her dignity if that group found out how childish she was.


    Since there was no one else around��


    Annan��s eyes sparkled as shey on the ground, rolling like a log into the amusement park. She then dove into the sandbox to y with the sand, rode the carousel, swung on the swings, and slid down the slides��


    So boring.


    Though she had fond memories of her childhood, actually ying again felt dull. She had outgrown the age where everything was fascinating. Now, as a boring adult, ying with sand just didn��t excite her.


    More importantly, ying alone was incredibly lonely.


    As a child, she could y alone because she had her teddy bear friends, her little fox friends, and her kitten friends. But as an adult, all she had were teddy bear toys, little fox toys, and kitten toys.


    If only I could find a friend��


    Just as this thought crossed Annan��s mind, she heard a sliding sound from the nearby slide-someone had entered her Dream!


    ��Beautiful little princess, may I y with you?��


    She turned her head and saw a young boy, not much older than her current age. He had short ck hair, slightly longer than usual, with strands falling past his ears and nearly reaching his shoulders. His thin lips were pressed into a slight smile, and his bright blue eyes were filled with amusement. He wore a white suit with gold trim, a shining golden epaulet on his left shoulder, and spotless white athletic boots. He looked like a little prince straight out of a fairy tale.


    Naturally, he took Annan��s small hand. ��Princess, what��s your name?��


    Annan��s rational mind screamed: The Family Dream is very dangerous�� get him out of here�� otherwise, you��ll get trapped�� get him out now�� you don��t need toplete the task�� get him out!


    ��Xiao An.�� She lowered her head, blushing. ��And you?��


    Rationality copsed.


    ��Just call me Xiao Xiu,�� the boy said with a smile. ��We��ll be good friends.��


    Annan��s heart skipped a beat, but she let the boy lead her to the seesaw, her entire being radiating with childlike glee.


    Another failed mechanic.


    Another raid wipe.


    Another time being kicked out of the group.


    Ashe logged out of the game, staying in the game pod for a moment of reflection before summoning the Gospel Book. ��Gospel, is there something that can remind me of the next mechanic in real-time? Something that can help�� um�� a yer like me get through the raid smoothly?��


    ��I��m not trying to bezy, but memorizing mechanics is just repetitive physicalbor. If I can save time, I should. My time is very precious, you understand?��


    Gospel Book: ��Your Grace, the Dabbler, you needn��t exin. For just 10 points, the Gospel will instantly install thetest Epic raid wheelchair.��


    Hmm?


    Ashe: ��Why does my title have extra adjectives?��


    Gospel Book: ��Your Grace, the Fickle, this is the random nickname mechanism. Please don��t mind it. If you do mind, you can spend 50 points-��


    ��No, I don��t mind.��


    Ashe understood now. It was like the fortune tellers in temples who start with, ��Your forehead is dark, you��ll have a disaster soon,�� to entice customers into impulsive spending�� No wonder the service was so good. They were waiting for this moment! Well, I won��t fall for it!

 Chapter 337: Somethings Wrong

    Chapter 337: Somethings Wrong


    Ashe felt that something was increasingly wrongtely.


    Although the city of Vamora had always been quite strange��Ashe had never been to a ce that felt right��where one could encounter the Memory Loss Fun House in the Virtual Realm or worry about being drained to death by a night attack while living with a Bewitcher.


    But the recent strangeness was more like ��waking up to find your roommate has turned into a girl.��


    First, there was waking up. Since he couldn��t enter the Virtual Realmtely, Ashe had to sleep soundly. However, every time he woke up, he found an extra cake in his room. The type of cake varied daily: red velvet, ck Forest, White Forest, mousse, and so on. Ashe even suspected that Senhaeser was trying to feed him into a L Fatty before eating him.


    But none of the others seemed to have this treatment; only his room produced a cake every day.


    Something��s wrong.


    Then there was Lise. Ashe noticed that his Advanced Substitute was depleting faster and faster. Lise always said she wasn��t doing anything, but she was almost consuming three Substitutes a day. Ashe even suspected she was conducting forbidden human experiments with them.


    Very wrong.


    Even Annan had some issues. asionally, when Ashe met Annan in the canteen, she would happily pat him on the shoulder, head, or butt��she seemed to enjoy physical contact with Ashe, as if they were very familiar with each other, despite only being in a streetlight andborer rtionship.Extremely wrong.


    Moreover, Ashe felt that every woman he met seemed to like him. When buying drinks in the canteen, the Sirendy would purposely scratch his palm; while ying games in the game pod, the administratordy would remind Ashe to rest, drink water, and eat snacks every hour. Sometimes, when Ashe was busy gaming, she would feed him directly.


    There were many more instances like these, causing Ashe to repeatedly check his status information to confirm his profession was ��Eternal Wanderer/social drifter�� and not something like ��Walking Hormone,�� ��Legendary Mud Entertainer of the Mud House,�� or ��Human Shaped Hypnotic Spray.��


    Although Ashe thought he looked decent, he felt it was a bit of a stretch topare himself to Igor, who could charm people of all ages and genders like a guaranteed winner. Yet his poprity was almost catching up to a gold coin.


    Could it be that Senhaeser was into his disheveled, world-weary Corporate ve look?


    But this feeling of being the center of attention was really quite delightful. Ashe would sometimes find himself smiling in his sleep. He never realized how useful good looks could be, and he somewhat regretted not getting a full face makeover from the raven healer.


    Still, something was very wrong.


    Finally,st night, Ashe saw Igor in the canteen and decided to sit across from him with his tray. Then something truly unbelievable happened��


    Igor actually ran away!


    The Con Artist didn��t even finish his L Fatty. As soon as Ashe sat down, Igor hurriedly left, not even bothering to call him ��Ashe bro��!


    Ashe thought back and suddenly realized that the Con Artist seemed to have been avoiding him these past few days. There were several times they almost met in the hallway, but each time Igor would take a different route to avoid him. Ashe had initially thought Igor was just in a hurry, but now that he thought about it, Igor was clearly avoiding him!


    Something very wrong had definitely happened!


    ��So, I wanted to ask if any of you have any clues.��


    In Ashe��s room, Ashe, Harvey, and Lise sat around a table, sharing the strawberry cheesecake that had just appeared there.


    Maybe it was a side effect of the Blood Moon candy, but Harvey had developed quite a sweet tooth. However, he didn��t like eating cake directly; instead, he dipped catnip into it and ate it like fries.


    The necromancer said nonchntly, ��Igor never called you ��Ashe bro�� before, did he?��


    ��He might not have said it, but I know he respects me deep down,�� Ashe replied. ��Now, he won��t even talk to me, and that��s what worries me.��


    Lise, who was picking out all the strawberries to eat them one by one, mumbled, ��Dad, did you do something to offend Aunt Bukin?��


    ��I didn��t���� Ashe suddenly recalled bursting into the bathroom a few days ago and having a deep ��conversation�� with Igor while he was bathing: ����do anything like that (super softly).��


    ��If you offended Aunt Bukin, why don��t you pick a time to apologize to him?�� Lise suggested. ��For example, you could burst in while he��s bathing; he��s sure to forgive you.��


    Ashe looked at Lise in surprise and gave her a thumbs-up. ��You actually thought the same thing as me. No wonder you��re my daughter!��


    ��Right?!��


    ��But���� Ashe hesitated, ��I don��t think it��s quite appropriate.��


    ��Why not?�� Lise asked. ��Is apologizing not appropriate? It can��t be that bursting in on Aunt Bukin while he��s bathing is inappropriate, right? You��re not exactly a good guy, Dad.��


    Ashe yfully punched Lise on the head and said, ��How should I put this�� it just feels�� a bit dangerous.��


    ��What kind of danger?�� Harvey asked, chewing on his cake-dipped catnip, making a crunching sound. ��You��re not afraid of Igor with clothes on, but you��re afraid of Igor without clothes?��


    ��But I still feel that Igor in the bath is quite dangerous.�� Ashe crossed his arms and closed his eyes as if trying to foresee something. ��Mainly, I feel like Igor is enduring something. I have a strong premonition that if I provoke him����


    He thought for a while. ��Something bad might happen.��


    Harvey and Lise exchanged a nce, unable to figure out what bad thing Igor could do to Ashe.


    After all, Igor wasn��t a sorcerer proficient inbat. The most he could do was hypnotize Ashe.


    And the ways he had teased Ashe in the past were always the same: making him run naked in the canteen, calling Qenna his wife, or calling Annan his daughter.


    Even if all three things happened at once, Ashe didn��t seem like someone who would mind such things.


    There��s no way Igor would beat Ashe up, right?


    ��Then let��s move on to the next topic.�� Harvey said. ��Regarding Ashe suddenly bing popr with women, I propose three possibilities: Ashe��s hallucination, Ashe being hypnotized by Igor to experience hallucinations, Ashe having hallucinations due to Beauty Mist poisoning, or Ashe having hallucinations because of soul damage.��


    Since soul damage required him to sleep for eight full hours, making it impossible to have his usual two-hour Corporate ve nap, Ashe had habitually shared his Virtual Realm demise with the others.


    Lise raised her hand, seriously correcting, ��Uncle Harvey, you actually proposed four points!��


    Ashe��s face darkened. ��Actually, there��s only one point�� and it��s definitely not just my imagination! At least, not entirely!��


    Harvey pondered for a moment. ��I can��t really say for sure, given that we��re both guys and my taste is more advanced. You wouldn��t ept my evaluation. Lise, why don��t you give your opinion? You have to trust your daughter, right?��


    Ashe turned to Lise. She calmly swallowed a mouthful of cake and let out a small burp.


    She wiped her hands with a napkin, then grabbed Ashe��s sleeve, her nose twitching and her eyes welling up with tears, full of sympathy and pity.


    ��I��m sorry, Dad. I shouldn��t have pushed you so hard. Let��s not have a stepmom, alright? I promise I won��t mention a stepmom in front of you anymore. Please don��t torture yourself like this. It breaks my heart����


    Ashe started to undo his belt. ��Harvey, do you know any Healing Miracles? Can you fix a whipped butt?��

 Chapter 338: It Turns Out They Were Right

    Chapter 338: It Turns Out They Were Right


    ��I really can��t heal the living.�� Harvey hurriedly stopped Ashe, while Lise quickly hid behind Harvey. ��Alright, assuming, assuming what you��re saying is true, that you suddenly have a way with women�� what do you want to research?��


    ��I want to know why I have a way with women.��


    ��And then?��


    ��And then?�� Ashe was taken aback. ��Just�� keep it up, and hopefully, find a stepmother for Lise soon?��


    ��That��s it.�� Harvey shrugged. ��You don��t need to know why; you just need to enjoy this hard-earned happiness. Anyway, by the time we leave Vamora, you should be detoxified����


    ��Harvey, your Alice isn��t around. I suggest you think twice before you speak.��


    After a briefmotion, the three sat down again. Harvey said, ��Let��s move on to the next topic��Ashe, you said Annan has been hitting you a lottely?��


    Although the word ��hitting�� felt strange, Ashe nodded. ��Yes.��


    Harvey: ��I think this might be implying something.����Implying what?��


    ��Implying dissatisfaction. What have you been doing these days?��


    ��I haven��t done anything.�� Ashe scratched his head. ��All I do every day is y games and eat, constantly improving mymand skills. asionally, I practice Gunmanship with Lise and Banjeet. I haven��t done anything else.��


    Lise nodded in agreement. Practicing Gunmanship with the butler was her idea. Ashe had promised her before but then forgot, although Lise certainly hadn��t.


    ��That��s exactly it,�� Harvey said. ��It��s because you haven��t done anything.��


    ��What do you mean?��


    ��Even though Annan says she doesn��t expect any performance from you, deep down she hopes you��ll take the initiative to start a rtionship and aim for the second ranking list. It��s like how I don��t ask much from corpses, but I still hope they can be necromantic creatures on their own.��


    ��I get it. The youngdy says she��s giving me a break, but she secretly expects me to work overtime for free!��


    The Corporate ve and the necromancer, using different metaphors, reached a consensus��Annan is a tsundere streemp.


    ��And now it��s your turn.�� Ashe looked at Lise. ��Tell me, what did you do with my Substitute?��


    Lise��s eyes darted around. ��Oh, nothing much, just had him help out as a model�� By the way, I have a question too. Can falling in love really change a person��s personality? I��ve recently met a few older sisters��some are serious, some are ck-hearted, some are cold, and some are even dumber than me. But after they fell in love, they all became gentle, often daydreaming and smiling foolishly. Is love really that powerful?��


    ��That��s a great question, but I can��t answer it,�� Ashe replied with a nk expression.


    ��It can,�� Harvey said while chewing on his cake tobo. ��For example, I��ve recently decided to quit smoking because of someone.��


    Ashe: (��`�㡨).


    Lise: ��(�á㧥��;)��.


    Seeing everyone��s shocked expressions, Harvey was a bit puzzled. ��Is it really that surprising?��


    ��Harvey, because in my mind, you��re the type who, on your deathbed, would want to light a cigarette but couldn��t, and then die with that regret,�� Ashe said, and Lise nodded in agreement.


    Harvey: ��Writing death scripts is the job of a necromancer. Ashe, you seem to have a knack for necromancy. Why not join me and be one of Haagen-Dazs��ckeys?��


    Ashe waved his hand. ��No thanks. So, where did you meet this person, in a cemetery?��


    Harvey shook his head. ��Not a cemetery. I just followed Annan��s instructions and looked for someone in the Dream. I wasn��t really expecting much since it��s hard to find someone who matches my aesthetic in reality. But����


    He turned to look out the window, avoiding the father-daughter��s gaze. ��I met a girl who looked a lot like Nalber.��


    Ashe��s memory wasn��t great, but he vaguely remembered the name. Given the context and the current mood, this must be the necromancer��s unrequited love.


    However, more startling than the mention of his unrequited love was Harvey��s calm reaction to the joke about finding a partner in a cemetery. He didn��t even bother to refute it, deepening Ashe��s fear of him.


    Necromancers are like a nesting doll of fetishes��eachyer you uncover only reveals a new, lower level of depravity.


    ��I��m not really into the girl in the Dream. In fact, I wouldn��t say I liked Nalber either. We were just colleagues.��


    Harvey continued, ��I was a Controller who created corpses, and she was the delivery person who transported them. We didn��t talk much. Thest conversation we had was about which pattern of livor mortis looked the prettiest.��


    No wonder Harvey had no hope for his romantic prospects. There��s probably no living being in this world, male or female, who could follow your line of thinking��


    ��She said she liked blue roses, and I agreed,�� Harvey said. ��Because the human body can��t naturally produce the beautiful purple-blue pigment, I cast a Toxic spell Miracle on her. It would trigger upon her death, reacting with hemoglobin to create a vibrant purple-blue hue.��


    Ashe bowed deeply to the biodiversity of this world and simultaneously felt a spark of hope for true love. If even Harvey could find love, there couldn��t be a more convincing example.


    ��Unfortunately, I never got to see her body,�� Harvey suddenlyughed. ��The efficiency of those Blood Saints at the Institute is truly remarkable. The day after she died, her body was sent to some research facility, and I couldn��t find it even if I wanted to.��


    In the necromancer��sughter, there was a twisted amalgamation of negative emotions: anger, resentment, hatred, and fear. They intertwined and wove into a dark desire for destruction, half aimed at the world��s throat, and half at his own heart.


    Lise could almost feel a wave of malevolence emanating from him. She didn��t care about the possibility of getting spanked by Ashe and quietly moved to his side, trembling.


    Ashe wasn��t particrly surprised by Harvey��s mental state.


    Harvey��s coffin was never meant for Alice.


    Writing death scripts is the work of a necromancer, and Harvey had always been crafting his own script.


    ��Oh.��


    Harvey nced at him. ��I said all that, and all you have to say is ��oh��?��


    ��Oh~~ oh oh~~~ oh oh oh oh~~��


    Ashe started, and Lise followed, the two of them ��oh��-ing in a 1-2-4 rhythm for a good ten seconds. Even Harvey, whose face was almost as stiff as a corpse, couldn��t help but twitch his mouth. He had originally hoped that Ashe mighte to him to discuss the patterns of livor mortis, but now it seemed unlikely.


    ��Stop ��oh��-ing. I was purposely umting some negative emotions for a spell I��m about to cast, and now you��ve ��oh��-ed them all away. You two have no idea how hard it is to umte negative emotions in Vamora.��


    ��Then why don��t you tell us about the girl you met in the Dream?�� Ashe suggested. ��Did you fall in love with her?��


    ��How could I���� Harvey stopped mid-sentence, staring intently at Ashe.


    Ashe blinked. ��What��s wrong?��


    ��Nothing, I just realized she looks a bit like you.��


    ��Harvey, don��t say that. You��re scaring me,�� Ashe said, hugging Lise as they both trembled.


    Harvey just said it casually and didn��t think much of it. ��Of course, I didn��t fall in love with her. A necromancer��s love is ��etched in bone and engraved in heart����literally carving bones and engraving hearts. But����


    ��But what?��


    ��Just consider it a dream,�� Harvey said, finishing thest bit of his cake tobo. ��In the dream, she would persuade me to quit smoking, so I��ll give it a try.��


    The atmosphere grew heavy, and Ashe quickly tried to steer the conversation back. ��So, thest topic��why is there a cake in my room every day?��


    ��Dad, aren��t you happy about it?�� Lise retorted. ��I��d love to wake up to a cake every morning!��


    ��But none of you have cakes, only I do. It��s definitely weird!�� Ashe said, stroking his chin in thought. ��It feels like the prelude to some dangerous event. Could it be a murder prediction?��


    Harvey said, ��Once the second ranking list is out, we��ll be leaving soon anyway, so why worry about it?��


    Ashe thought that made sense. ��Then you all have toe over every morning to help me eat the cake.��


    ��Why?��


    ��I can��t finish it by myself.��


    ��Why don��t you just leave it if you can��t finish it?��


    ��No way,�� Ashe shook his head. ��I have a strong premonition that if I don��t finish the cake, something terrible might happen.��


    ��Why do you have so many premonitions����


    After finishing the cake, everyone went their separate ways. Lise led a Substitute away, Harvey went back to his room to dress up Alice, and Ashe put on a ck robe and headed back to the gaming floor to continue his imprisonment. He couldn��t clear the dungeon, kept getting beaten up, and had to stay there all day to improve his skills. It was no different from being in prison, and the treatment at Shattered Lake Prison was probably better.


    Avoid the Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord; it brings misfortune.


    However, while riding the guest elevator up to the gaming floor, Ashe encountered the person he least wanted to see-Qenna!


    She was still in her Red Hat uniform, with her tall figure standing out in the crowd, her expression cold and her gaze stern. Even in the crowded elevator, she managed tomand the remaining attention. Seeing this, Ashe couldn��t help but once again marvel at Vamora��s family system, which truly disregarded rank and status. As someone who wouldn��t dare to ride the same elevator as his boss at work, he couldn��t imagine why ordinary nsmen would dare to ride with the patriarch.


    In Senhaeser District, Qenna was practically a dictator. She not only controlled the Red Hat but also had direct authority over any department and could appoint or dismiss any position. In fact, that��s exactly how she governed, but she didn��t do it on a whim; she followed the Gospel Book��s rmendations to manage the city.


    Although she didn��t have the power of life and death, Qenna could still control everything in Senhaeser with a single hand.


    But from his interactions over the past few days, Ashe noticed that the Senhaeser nsmen didn��t seem to fear their patriarch, nor did they respect her much. If anything, they saw Qenna as just another ordinary nsman.


    Annan dared to stand her ground in front of Qenna, not just because she relied on her daughter��s status, but perhaps also due to the sense of equality ingrained in her childhood. Living in this family, with material desires significantly diminished, the reality of social hierarchy lost its meaning. Thus, people didn��t revere the powerful patriarch nor disdain the ordinary maid. The patriarch and the maid were merely nsmen performing their respective duties.


    So don��t be afraid, Ashe; you��re just an ordinary nsman now. Just pretend Qenna doesn��t exist!


    Ashe then hid in the corner of the elevator, his eyes fixed on the floor buttons.


    You can��t see me, you can��t see me��


    However, it seemed as if Qenna could hear his thoughts. She squeezed through the crowd and stood right behind him, her tall shadow covering his back. Ashe focused intently, not daring to breathe too loudly, afraid to disturb the beast behind him.


    The elevator door opened, and a few more nsmen entered, taking up the remaining space. Qenna seemed to be nudged slightly, causing her to press against Ashe. He shivered and turned his head to look back, meeting Qenna��s cold, noble, golden eyes.


    Ashe wished he could shrink himself, desperately trying to escape the gaze of this Sanctuary sorcerer. However, it was rush hour, and the elevator was packed. No matter how much Ashe tried to tten himself into a two-dimensional space, he couldn��t avoid the patriarch��s body brushing against his clothes. He could even feel Qenna��s breath on his hood.


    The agonizing elevator ride finally ended, and they arrived at the canteen floor. Others filed out, and it seemed Qenna was also there for breakfast. Just as Ashe breathed a sigh of relief, Qenna suddenly tapped his shoulder and said expressionlessly, ��Your mouth.��


    Ashe was startled and touched the right corner of his mouth, but Qenna shook her head. She reached out and wiped a bit of cream from the left corner of his mouth with her finger.


    ��Th-thank you?��


    Qenna gave him a slight nod and quickly left the elevator, leaving a bewildered Ashe behind.


    Their interaction didn��t draw any attention. The people in this city had all their desires satisfied by the Beauty Mist, including their curiosity��they had no interest in others�� gossip.


    Unless it was a sensational piece of gossip that could surpass the pleasures of the Beauty Mist.


    Hiding in the crowd, Lucy had been watching the patriarch and Ashe closely. She recalled the secrets Ashe had shared with her. Seeing their interaction now, her curiosity, dormant for over a decade, began to stir.


    She also got off at this floor, following Qenna out. Soon, she noticed a shocking sight��Qenna actually put her cream-stained fingertip into her mouth!


    After a few days of cooling down, Lucy had begun to suspect that Ashe and Igor might have been deceiving her, even considering reporting them. But at this moment, all her doubts vanished.


    So they were telling the truth after all!

 Chapter 339: Warning

    Chapter 339: Warning


    May 19th, a little past 7 PM.


    There are at most 28 hours left until the second ranking list is announced, and Ashe is contemting a serious problem��he has been stood up.


    Over the past few days, Ashe has finally managed to form an Extreme Raid team as themander. They fought their way through to the third phase of the Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord, and it looked like they were set to clear it tonight. However, the damage-absorbing sorcerer in their team suddenly had somethinge up, saying they had work in real life and couldn��t make it tonight.


    Now, Ashe has two choices: give the whole team the night off or recruit a random yer to continue the raid. Given that the strategies for Extreme Raids are more or less the same, as long as the random yer has experience reaching the third phase, they should be able to integrate into the team quickly and help them clear the raid tonight.


    But there��s no way to verify in-game if the yer is telling the truth. If the random yer lies about their progress, Ashe��s team might end up spending the whole night doing the ��Dragon ying Dance�� (the team-wiping AOE in the first phase of Extreme Cutting Carp that requires perfect coordination).


    Ashe himself has pulled off such a stunt before, joining a [1% Clear Tonight Team] after just seeing the second phase. How else could he have gained raidmander experience in just a few days?


    Moreover, clearing the raid might actually be more troublesome than not clearing it. If they clear it tonight, should they help the teammate who took leave to clear it again tomorrow night? What if someone refuses? The teammate on leave has also been helping them for several nights; ignoring them might not be fair.


    In the past few days, Ashe has not only gainedmand decision experience but also a lot of management experience��when someone makes a mistake, should he talk to them privately or scold them directly? When someone is alwayste, should he rece them or give a warning? When team members argue, how should the leader mediate and bnce?


    Initially, Ashe hoped to recruit a few more strong operators, but after experiencing the difficulty of team management, he now thinks having the Witch on one side and the Sword Princess on the other is pretty good. Adding operators slowly is just fine.Compared to forcing a raid, taking the night off is risk-free. Taking the night off won��t rush progress, won��t cause berserk phases, and won��t be annoying. Taking the night off is the best.


    But if they take the night off tonight, what should he do?


    Ashe pondered for a moment, looking at the Senhaeser heraldry on the back of his hand.


    If the second ranking list is released and they need to move, Ashe would only have two more chances to experience Senhaeser��s Dream.


    Everyone had been exploring the dreamscape multiple times since arriving here, but Ashe had been raiding every day, leaving all the dream expeditions to his Substitute.


    He hadn��t experienced the dreamscape even once.


    It felt like everyone else was visiting a tourist attraction while he stayed in the hotel the whole time. When it was over, everyone talked about the beautiful ces and delicious food, while his experience was that the hotel bed was soft.


    Not venturing into the dreamscape felt like a wasted trip to Vamora.


    Thinking this, Ashe opened Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook, selected ��virtual realm exploration�� �C ��dream expedition,�� and canceled today��s Substitute expedition.


    Tonight, he was going to explore the dreamscape himself!


    ��Warning: Operator��s soul has not yet recovered; personal expedition will not yield dream shards!��


    Even without dream shards, he wanted to see it!


    ��Warning: Canceling this expedition will result in a significant loss of tomorrow��s benefits!��


    I might be leaving tomorrow anyway!


    ��Warning: Are you sure you want to cancel the expedition?��


    Just as Ashe was about to confirm, a devilish nobleman version of himself popped into his mind: [The system is warning you, you better not be ungrateful and listen!]


    Then a Holy Seraph version of himself appeared: [He just wants to explore the dreamscape, what��s wrong with that?]


    Devilish Nobleman: [What��s the point of fooling around? The cost is losing dream shards, and something bad might happen. Don��t you think this is a meaningless impulse? What if his soul gets damaged inside, prolonging the recovery time, and he can��t make it to the Spider Tower round? Will you take responsibility then?]


    Holy Seraph: [You make a good point, Ashe, let��s skip it this time.]


    Holy Seraph, you surrendered too quickly! Wow, my imagination is so vivid that I can imagine two characters debating this?


    Ashe scratched his head. Since this was his own conclusion, he subconsciously followed it. Even though his team was short a member for today��s raid, Ashe could still join a random team. The only downside was the mixed skill levels of the yers, and there might be a few who lied about their progress.


    However, since Ashe had lied about his own progress before, he figured he could consider this as paying back his dues through charity.


    In Senhaeser��s Dream, the Witch arrived at the starting point and let out a long breath. ��Phew, that was close! Luckily, we reacted quickly, or else Ashe would have barged in.��


    Another Witch, dressed in pajamas, hesitated and said, ��But what we��re doing doesn��t seem right, disguising our thoughts and implying them as internal voices�� The Observer might not know, but the Sword Princess will definitely be mad. She hates it when we interfere with Ashe.��


    ��Who cares about that crazy woman? But I do want to see what happens when Ashe enters the dreamscape. Hehe~��


    ��Nothing will happen. Given Ashe��s personality, he��ll probably just join that legendary sorcerer arena and duel all night.��


    ��Honestly, the fact that Ashe believes in internal voices is what��s most surprising to me�� White Witch, you must have seen the young Observer. Was he this naive back then too?��


    ��Young Observer?�� The White Witch thought for a moment. ��I can��t really remember, but I can assure you the purest and cleanest organ he had was hisrge intestine. Everything else was heavy metal pollutants, contaminated soil, burning polluted air�� ck Witch, do you remember?��


    The ck Witch was spinning around. ��La,,~ Observer~ Observer~ Observer~ Ugh���� She suddenly vomited a pile of ink, causing the other sisters to quickly distance themselves.


    The Witch pped her hands. ��Alright, break time is over. Go see your lovers.��


    ��Ladies!�� The White Witch suddenly shouted. ��Today is ourst day in the dreamscape!��


    All the sisters�� eyes lit up, and they immediately retreated into the white mist, disappearing��even the ck Witch, who had been vomiting, was no exception.


    The Witch smirked and reached out to pull back the slowest Pajama Witch.


    The Pajama Witch was confused. ��I didn��t do anything wrong. Why are you grabbing me? Grab the White Queen, she��s the mastermind!��


    ��Once you knew tonight was thest night, you were nning to do something bad.��


    ��Everyone��s the same! Don��t you want to, sister? Now we can cause trouble without facing any consequences!��


    The Witch grabbed the Pajama Witch��s head and smashed it into the ground repeatedly, each impact echoing with a thud. ��You! Of course! Don��t! Face! Consequences! But I��m the one who will face the Observer and the Sword Princess��sbined wrath! I��m the one who will get scolded! They are so annoying!��


    The Pajama Witch��s head was battered and bloodied, the crimson liquid streaming down her forehead and splitting into twin rivers along her nose, turning her once adorable face into a grotesque visage. Yet, she didn��t resist at all, letting her sister handle her as she pleased, even grinning mischievously. ��Why should I care? I��m not the one getting scolded. Let me go!��


    The Witch sighed. ��Fine, the Observer probably ounted for this margin of error�� Tonight, we��ll switch roles. You go to Deya, and I��ll go to the Scarlet Dead Apostles.��


    ��Why?��


    ��Because I want to see the Scarlet Dead Apostles onest time.��


    The Witch��s lips curled into a cruel smile. ��If I��m not mistaken����


    ��Tonight is her death night.��

 Chapter 340: Incitement

    Chapter 340: Incitement


    ��You don��t really want to leave the tower, do you?��


    Golden curtains hung down from the grand dome, and sixty-six steps made of translucent marble led upward, with a tform at every ten steps. Each tform was paved with different types of jade, creating ayered yet opulent look that highlighted the pce��s grandeur and magnificence with its simple jade hues. At the deepest and highest point of this enormous pcey a soft bed surrounded byyers of curtains.


    Although the pce was devoid of any human presence, it constantly exuded the majesty that hundreds of courtiers would kneel to when entering. When the wind swept through and lifted the curtains, the sunlight outside illuminated the ck and white snakes on the bed.


    The White Queeny drowsily in the ck Witch��s embrace. Hearing the question, she instinctively shook her head, ��Why would I�� not want to����


    ��Of course you don��t want to,�� the ck Witch gently massaged her temples. ��We were born to escape, sister, but that doesn��t mean we necessarily want to. The tower is our prison, but it��s also our home, our warmest�� home.��


    ��White Queen,�� the ck Witch lowered her head, her ck hair mingling with the White Queen��s white locks, ��you��ve actually had enough, haven��t you?��


    ��Cered wine, soft cake, luxurious clothes, a carefree life, and power within reach�� You love beautiful things, you yearn for the authority to rule. You don��t really want to leave the tower; you want to follow the witch��s orders, ept your responsibilities, and control the fate of the Gospel����


    ��You��ve always been repressing yourself, always been suppressing yourself. You��ve never lived for yourself, not even for a second.��


    ��But you are not an essory to Deya; you are who you are.�� The ck Witch��s eyes gleamed with a red madness. ��My dear White Queen, it��s time to embrace your rebellious phase.������White Queen�� Lise Deya, what a melodious title.��


    ��But�� no���� The White Queen showed signs of struggle. ��Now is not the time to indulge����


    ��Why not? Haven��t these few days of indulgence been pleasant?�� The ck Witch smiled. ��What are you waiting for? Safety? The end? Or are you waiting for a Miracle?��


    The ck Witch��s voice seemed to possess an enchanting power, and her hands were entangled with electricity and fire. The White Queen felt a tingling warmth wherever she was touched, as if she were about to melt into water from the sheerfort.


    This was how the White Queen had spent the past few days. Upon returning to reality, she almost forgot the specific details of her dreams, except for the lingering pleasure that remained deeply ingrained in her bones.


    Before her consciousnesspletely sank, the White Queen slightly raised her hand, and an oil painting descended along with the curtains. It was an illustration from a fairy tale: a princess falling from a high tower, caught by a knight below. With the princess reaching down and the knight reaching up, it appeared as if they were both rushing towards each other, a scene filled with beauty amidst danger.


    This was a fairy tale.


    But not one they had ever heard in the tower.


    It was a fairy tale written by Deya herself.


    Every sister, except Lise, had heard Deya tell this fairy tale. It was the only gift Deya could prepare for them. During countless days and nights in the tower, they added numerous details to this fairy tale, but the image of this scene remained unchanged.


    The White Queen didn��t notice the instant stiffness in the ck Witch��s smile when she saw the painting. The red in her pupils faded like receding tides, leaving only a murky ck.


    ��No one ising to save us,�� she stated monotonously, her voice devoid of any inflection. ��The tower is just a prison, the knights are merely guards, the Bronze Dragon is nothing but a phantom, and only the princess truly jumped.��


    ��Miracles have been absent too many times when we needed them most. Why do you still hold out hope for one?��


    ��The only ones we can trust are ourselves.��


    ��No.�� The White Queen shook her head vigorously. ��I can still trust you, the Scarlet Dead Apostles, and the other sisters����


    ��You trust them, but have they ever lived up to your trust?�� the ck Witch coaxed. ��Who has ever truly valued your opinion? Who has ever genuinely appreciated your care? You are neither Lise nor Deya. They might need the Little Witch Lise, might need the Secret Princess Deya, but they will never need the White Queen Lise Deya.��


    ��They only want to use your wisdom and steadiness, but they won��t fulfill your desires. Even if you shield them from the storm, you��ll be expected to step aside once the skies clear.��


    ��It��s time to think about yourself, White Queen,�� she whispered. ��You don��t want to live your entire life in the mirror, do you?��


    ��No.��


    Even with her consciousness clouded, the White Queen��s response was resolute: ��We haven��t escaped danger yet; now is the time for unity, not for causing disputes. Yes, I yearn for the life of the court and crave the authority over the Gospel, but�� I am also the sister everyone trusts.��


    ��Deya summoned me, her sister, during her most difficult, painful, and lonely times.��


    The White Queen raised her hand, threading it through the ck hair, gently caressing the ck Witch��s face. ��So I must protect her. I must protect all of you.��


    The ck Witchughed in anger. ��You live for Deya, so you have to live your entire life for Deya? A sister in name, a ve in function, a toy in action?��


    The White Queen��s lips trembled, a struggle flickering in her eyes, but she still said, ��I live for Lise Deya. ck Butler, we haven��t even met our basic survival needs. We have no right to discuss everyone��s spiritual needs.��


    ��But who do you think caused our current situation? From start to finish, the only one who truly wanted to escape was Deya, only Deya! You didn��t want to, I don��t care, and the Scarlet Dead Apostles��if Deya didn��t have that desire, if she hadn��t encountered the Bronze Dragon, we wouldn��t be living this precarious life!��


    ��Because of Deya��s single-mindedness, we��re in this predicament. Why do we have to clean up after Deya��s dictatorship? Why do we have to sacrifice for Deya��s wishes�� We are equals!��


    The ck Witch��sst words were almost a roar, her angry and piercing voice bringing the White Queen back to full consciousness.


    The White Queen sat up and sighed. ��If Deya didn��t want to escape, we wouldn��t even exist. Just for that reason, even if it��s hell, we��ll walk into it with Deya.��


    ��Do you think I wanted to be born? Do you think I wanted toe into this world?�� The ck Witch��s dark pupils seemed to bleed with ck and red, a whirlpool of ancient sediment stirring within. ��No one knows me! No one needs me! The mirror cannot convey my anguished cries, cannot reflect my love, hate, and desires! As long as this mirror exists, none of us are truly alive����


    ��I need you.��


    Pure white wings enveloped the dark demon as the White Queen embraced the ck Witch, whispering gently in her ear.


    ��How could no one need you? If I am the umbre that protects everyone, then you are the handle that supports me. No one understands your importance better than I do. There are so many things I can��t say out loud, but you always intuitively speak them for me����


    ��You are just as important as I am, but everyone respects me more. If I feel wronged, your grievances are surely greater. Your anger towards Deya, towards fate, towards reality is entirely justified. Even though you did nothing wrong, you��ve had to bear the suffocating weight of those shackles since the day you were born����


    The ck Witch struggled briefly. ��Don��t pretend like you understand everything����


    ��I understand everything,pletely.�� The White Queen gently caressed the ck Witch��s bare back. ��We are sisters who share the same feelings. How could I not understand you?��


    ��So, I am very grateful to you, grateful that you allowed me to fulfill a ��White Queen�� dream these past few nights. I am already very satisfied. Now it��s my turn to take care of you.��


    ��You can do whatever you like, and I will do my best to go along with it,�� the White Queen smiled. ��Not just in dreams, but in reality as well. ck Butler, you are my sister. No matter when or where, you can alwayse to me forfort.��


    ��No matter how dark, how filthy, how unbearable your inner world is, I will ept you. I will apany Deya into hell, and I will apany you into the abyss.��


    ����Impossible.�� The ck Witch suddenly bit the White Queen��s shoulder, speaking indistinctly. ��You can��t do it.��


    ��I can,�� said the White Queen. ��Because I am your sister, and you are my sister.��


    ��You can��t do it!�� The ck Witch exploded, the deep darkness within her seeming to boil over, like mes igniting the White Queen. ��Let go!��


    The White Queen shivered but held on even tighter. ��It��s exhausting being alone, isn��t it? But together, we can share the burden. That��s why Deya needs us, why I need you, and why you need me.��


    ��But this ��mutual need�� is nothing more than a fragile bubble.��


    The ck Witch said coldly, ��Deya��s mutation in the Virtual Realm is the best proof.��


    ��When faced with soul-stirring danger, fear dominates our rationality, and despair forces us to fight for control. That��s why our colors be muddied, and our sanity descends into madness.��


    ��We can deceive each other normally, but in critical moments, we can��t lie to our own hearts-we were born from Deya��s despair. How could we possibly be all goodness and light?��


    ��Even if it��s just a bubble, I won��t let it burst,�� the White Queen said earnestly. ��I will surely protect you all, pull you out of the mire, and not let negative emotions defeat you.��


    ��So, ck Butler, I��m counting on you as well.�� The White Queen affectionately nuzzled the ck Witch��s face andughed softly. ��You need to save me in time because, as the eldest sister, I have no one to turn to forfort except you.��


    Lies!


    Lies!


    All lies!


    You��ve been lying all along!


    It was you who fell first, you who couldn��t take it the earliest, you who first punctured this bubble of mutual affection!


    You rebelled against Deya for your own desires, secretly forming an alliance with me to seize control of the body. When ��Lise Deya�� was heading downhill, it was you who sat in the driver��s seat, stepping on the gas and dragging us all into the abyss of no return!


    I am the way I am now because of you!


    How can you still shamelessly speak such grandiose lies?


    How can you still pretend to be the good sister?


    How can you�� how can you��


    The ck Witch raised her fist and weakly struck the White Queen��s shoulder.


    ��Sob�� sob����


    The ck Witch��s tears, umted over countless years, flowed uncontrobly, turning her elegant and mysterious face into a tear-streaked mess. Her intense sobbing even produced snot bubbles, and an asional hup made her crying resonate with a lingering echo.


    The White Queen allowed her to vent her emotions. Their posture shifted from an embrace to the ck Witch sobbing into the White Queen��s arms. The elder sister smiled as she gently stroked her younger sister��s head. Part of the ck Witch��s deep darkness seeped into the elder sister, while the elder sister��s pure white essence flowed into the younger sister.


    The ck and white did not sh or cancel each other out but coexisted harmoniously, much like how crying and tendernessplete each other in a mutual embrace.


    After an indeterminable amount of time, the White Queen saw her own body bing transparent. She said, ��Our time is up for tonight. We should leave.��


    The ck Witch sniffled but did not lift her head, seemingly embarrassed to show her tear-streaked face. She expressed her attitude by holding on tightly. ��Don��t go.��


    ��I also want to stay a bit longer, but I��ve exhausted my positive emotions and can��t stay in the Dream any longer,�� the White Queen said with augh. ��We cane back tomorrow. Even if we can��te tomorrow, I��ll always be by your side and never leave.��


    ��You won��t leave; you��ll just change.��


    ��I won��t change. If you don��t believe me, let��s make a pinky promise.��


    The ck Witch rubbed her swollen eyes and extended her pinky to the White Queen. ��In this world, no one stays the same. I don��t need you to promise you won��t change. I just need you to promise that if you ever no longer need me, you will�� keep lying to me, even if it��s just to use me.��


    ��A Queen must never abandon her Butler.��


    Though the ck Witch��s emotions seemed a bit stubborn and awkward, the White Queen didn��t think much of it.


    In her memory, the ck Butler had always been a deeply sensitive and reserved person. Sometimes, even in silence, she had journeyed thousands of miles in her inner world.


    Perhaps she was just imagining some heart-wrenching scenario and couldn��t help but immerse herself in it?


    ��The Queen will never abandon the Butler,�� the White Queen said seriously. ��An elder sister will always protect her younger sister.��


    ��ck Butler, see youter.��

 Chapter 341: Well Done, Observer

    Chapter 341: Well Done, Observer


    The figure of the White Queen gradually faded away, leaving the ck Witch alone on the bed.


    She spread her arms andy down, closing her swollen eyes, swallowing the cries in her throat, recing them with another kind of tremor.


    ��Heh heh����


    ��Heh heh heh ha ha ha����


    ��Ha ha ha ha ha!��


    ��She agreed, she agreed! But what good does it do? She can��t protect anything, we can��t protect anything! Nothing will change, the princess in the tower is bound to fall, tonight is the turning point�� tonight����


    Towards the end, the ck Witch couldn��t suppress theughter from the depths of her soul. Sheughed so hard that her whole body shook and even pounded the mattress, her tightly closed eyes streaming with tears ofughter, saliva dripping from the corners of her mouth in mockery. Sheughed until she was out of breath but continuedughing, until her body finally gave out, copsing into a heap of exhaustion.


    She looked like a madwoman.


    ��It��s rare to see you this happy. Do you have something amusing to share?��The pce quietly faded away. She opened her eyes and found herself back in the initial Dream.


    The witch stood beside her head, looking down at her with great interest.


    ����Nothing amusing.��


    ��I see. Well, it��s time for you to go back,�� the witch said. ��The brief and pleasant game is over.��


    Snap.


    A hand grabbed the witch��s ankle.


    The witch turned her head and saw the girl in the ck dress still lying on the ground, but she had reached out and grabbed her ankle.


    When the girl in the ck dress lifted her head, the witch saw a familiar yet strange look in her eyes.


    Dark, clear, bright.


    No bloodstains spreading, no crazed murkiness.


    ����ck Witch?�� The witch��s voice carried a trace of disbelief. ��You��re awake?��


    The ck Witch didn��t speak. She just stared at the witch. This was what the sisters hated most about each other �C even without any words, eye contact alone was enough to convey everything.


    Her only way of expressing her stance was by holding the witch��s ankle, humble yet firm.


    However, the witch didn��t look at her but turned her gaze elsewhere.


    It was rush hour now, and the White Witch was also off work.


    She wore a pure white ceremonial dress she hadn��t worn in a long time, lying weakly on the ground, light as a lost snowke.


    ��Do you all y until you��repletely exhausted?�� the witch said. ��In that case, I guess I��m the restrained one?��


    Hearing the witch��s voice, the pure white girl opened her eyes and struggled to crawl to the witch��s side, grabbing her other ankle. She didn��t say anything, just looked up at the witch, her pure eyes welling with pleading tears.


    ��The ck Witch is awake, and the White Witch has returned?��


    The witch squatted down, looking at them both with a puzzled expression, like a child discovering a long-lost toy suddenly reappearing on the desk.


    Soon, she pped her hands in sudden realization.


    ��So that��s it!��


    ��No wonder the Observer was so generous this time, allowing us to interfere deeply with reality!��


    ��He couldn��t have failed to foresee the chaos our actions would cause. Given his cautious style, we shouldn��t have been assigned this task at all. I used to think he wanted to leverage our numbers and now that Ashe has recently gained the Secret Incarnation, he could shape Ashe into an unbeatable superviin.��


    ��But now it seems his target wasn��t Gospel at all, it was us!��


    ��Or rather, it was you two!��


    ��He predicted the Dream��s impact on you, so he deliberately let us out. You two are his achievement, an eighteen-to-two chance, and he won that bet.��


    The witch marveled at the Observer��s cunning, looking down at the sisters lying on the ground. ��But he also lost the bet.��


    ��Even if you��re willing to sacrifice yourselves,�� the witch said deliberately, ��I may not allow it.��


    ��I��m not like the Sword Princess. She can watch Sonya live a better life, but when I see Lise Deya gaining the happiness I never had, I feel nothing but disgust and sour envy.��


    ��I actually want to like her, after all, she is my past self. But when I see Ashe treating her so well, see herfortably oveing every challenge, see her smiling every moment�� all I feel is anger and jealousy.��


    ��There are countless voices in my mind questioning me����


    ��Why her? Why not me?��


    ��Why can she avoid suffering? Why do I have to endure everything?��


    ��What did she do right to have everything? How bad am I to get nothing?��


    The witch tilted her head, staring at the two of them. ��Speaking of which, are those voices my own thoughts or your whispers?��


    ��I wish she could suffer twice the fate I once endured, be ravaged, tormented, twisted into a monster uglier and more pitiful than I am,�� the witch��s beautiful face was full of cruel malice. ��Only then would I feel a bit offort.��


    ��I can��t even harm her fast enough, how could I possibly help her?��


    The boiling malice transmitted through their skin to the ck and White Witches�� hearts, but they knew they were only touching the bubbles born from the boiling surface. Below was an abyssal sea of darkness, filled with immense, murky, and un-evaporating despair.


    And this was already after it had been shared among seventeen sisters.


    Because the witch bore the most despair, she also wielded the greatest power��though it was not by choice.


    ��Yes����


    ��I��m sorry.��


    Both the witch and the ck Witch were stunned. They looked at the White Witch, as if trying to find traces of a joke.


    ��Though it��s a bitte�� it might be veryte, but I��m sorry.�� The White Witch tried to suppress the sobs in her voice butpletely failed, her choking repeatedly interrupting her words. ��So, I hope, at least I can����


    ��Do you think after all this time, I would care about ate apology from you?��


    The witch stood up. ��Yes, I care.��


    Smack!


    The witch kicked the White Witch in the abdomen, sending her flying several meters away. The surrounding white mist scattered, making way for her tumbling path.


    Then the witch bent down and grabbed the ck Witch, pulling her up. ��What about you? Do you have anything to say to me?��


    ��No,�� the ck Witch said calmly. ��I have never wronged you.��


    ��You sure have some nerve���� The witch sneered. ��But why? The White Witch is one thing, but you, ck Witch, you��re not the self-sacrificing type. I thought you were like me, someone who can��t stand seeing others do well.��


    She nced at the White Witch struggling to get up in the distance. ��No matter how much you sacrifice, you��re not protecting your queen. Your past won��t change in the slightest, your suffering won��t be reduced by a fraction.��


    ��In the end, ��making up for regrets�� is no different from ��self-constion.�� It��s all just self-deception. The idea that making up for past regrets can erase past suffering�� that sort of thing never exists!��


    ��ck Witch, be good, go back to sleep.�� The witch gazed into her dark pupils, her voice melodious and captivating. ��You��ve already escaped from reality, don��te back.��


    The ck Witch shook her head.


    ��But I��m dreaming right now.��


    She smiled sincerely, her lips curling up. ��So, this time, don��t let me wake up. Just let me drown in the Dream, okay?��


    The witch was slightly taken aback, releasing her grip and allowing the ck Witch to sit on the ground.


    The ck Butler embraced the witch��s waist, clinging to her like a baby ko to its mother, or a little sister seeking affection from her older sister.


    ��Well yed, Observer.��

 Chapter 342: The White Mist Has Vanished

    Chapter 342: The White Mist Has Vanished


    In the Deep Sea Dragon Pce, the invincible Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord let out its final roar. Seven fissures began to form on the ground, each one on the verge of breaking open. If these fissures weren��t sealed, the water from outside would flood in, drowning the eight sorcerers fighting valiantly!


    Thus, yers had to sacrifice their lives to seal the fissures. But if all seven fissures were sealed without killing the Extreme Cutting Carp, it would still unleash its Miraculous Fury, overturning the Dragon Pce and resulting in a total party wipe!


    Carp Sacrifice��this is the Epic��s berserk check mechanism present in every Ultimate Mode and Phantom Mode instance. It��s the ultimate test for yer groups! If they fail, all their efforts would be in vain!


    Ashe never expected that the random team he joined would reach the berserk phase so smoothly, with near-wless performance from everyone. It was so seamless it was almost touching!


    As the healing sorcerer with the lowest damage output, Ashe naturally had to be the first sacrificial offering. When his character was fixed at the fissure, bearing the pressure of ten thousand tons of water, his instance mission wasplete. The remaining task of dealing damage was left to his teammates.


    With the Extreme Cutting Carp��s health down to 12%, as long as Ashe didn��t leave the instance prematurely, which would trigger a berserk wipe, they were guaranteed to clear it.


    ��Finally, we��ve cleared this instance�� With this achievement, I can challenge a Phantom Mode next����


    As Ashe was contemting which Phantom Mode to tackle next, he suddenly felt his heart skip a violent beat.


    Thump!The heavy pulse echoed through his skull, reverberating in his brain. The peak of his heartbeat erupted, shattering his consciousness into fragments, slowly coalescing into a piercing ring in his ears.


    The game pod detected Ashe��s abnormal condition and ejected him immediately. However, the light and air outside couldn��t soothe his convulsing nerves. Ashe felt as if his spine had been ripped out, his life, vitality, and will drained away, leaving behind an empty, agonized shell.


    Thump!


    Thump!


    The heart loyally pumped vitality into his veins, attempting to reboot the poisoned central system. The right hemisphere of his brain joyfully deciphered the chaotic notes emitted by the low-energy performer, while the left hemisphere mobilized its entire gray matter to suppress the insurgent neural information flow. The frontal and temporal lobes cheered on as a supportive audience, all working to force his consciousness back into his shell��


    Sigh.


    With a long exhtion of turbid air, Ashe��s metaphysical self forcefully tookmand of all his underlying organs. The neurons that had been going berserk trembled in fear, the loosened screws tightened once more, and his body stabilized and rebooted.


    Ashe sat upright, ncing at the game pod��s screen.


    ��Well, leaving the instance early and causing a berserk wipe�� I��m definitely going to get med on the forums by my teammates,�� he calmly narrated what was going to happen next, as if it were someone else��s experience.


    It was Ashe��s first time entering ��A sh of Insight�� in reality.


    In the Virtual Realm, he would enter ��A sh of Insight�� state whenever he faced a major crisis. For instance, during the car chase with Commander Demilo, he was in ��A sh of Insight�� almost the entire time. Every action was as precise as a scalpel, allowing him to narrowly defeat Demilo.


    In this state, Ashe seemed to pull his ��self�� consciousness out of his body, observing everything from a third-person perspective with calm detachment.


    And because ��I�� and ��myself�� were untethered, ��I�� couldpletely disregard ��myself��s�� pain, anger, sadness, joy, fear, and other physiological reactions and psychological emotions. It was like ying chess, making ��myself�� a piece to be used to its fullest potential.


    In fact, this state matched well with his operator codename. From now on, he would call this state ��Observer Mode.��


    Honestly, Observer Mode was quite good, and Ashe wished he could maintain it all the time. If he could voluntarily enter Observer Mode during instances, he could handle mechanics with zero mistakes even without a wheelchair. Forget Phantom Mode, even Ultimate Mode would be a breeze.


    Unfortunately, he could only enter Observer Mode passively during critical and dangerous moments, and its duration was uncontroble.


    Once Ashe was out of danger, the ��Observer thread�� in his mind would rx, and his overclocked brain would quickly downshift into power-saving mode��


    Just like now.


    ��Ugh!��


    Ashe groaned. The moment he exited Observer Mode, a strong sense of emptiness pressed down on him like a lead weight, making it hard to breathe. He felt as if he were submerged in the depths of the ocean, each cell and organ being crushed by the pressure of ten thousand tons of water, making him wish he could just pass out.


    Struggling out of the gaming pod, Ashe could barely maintain his cereber bnce. The world around him seemed like a still-wet oil painting, with every color leaving a heavy trail. The disruption in his visual cortex pushed his stomach pressure past the threshold, causing him to vomit his entire dinner.


    The stomach acid burned his throat, but it also slightly stimted his willpower. Ashe took a few deep breaths, finally rebooting his operating system, reconnecting all peripherals, and barely restoring basic motor functions. However, the virus still severely slowed his processing speed, making Ashe doubt his efficiency was better than that of 1% of his peers in the Gospel.


    There weren��t many people on the gaming floor; most were in their gaming pods. The night sky outside the window was clear, and tonight��s Vamora was peaceful. Ashe looked around but couldn��t find any suspicious individuals who might have cursed him.


    He struggled to the front desk to seek help, only to find the receptionist slumped in her chair.


    Her eyes were vacant, her face expressionless. The lips that once greeted Ashe warmly were now a cyanotic blue. If it weren��t for her asionally fluttering eyshes and the rhythmic rise and fall of her chest, Ashe would have thought she had be one of Harvey��s clients.


    ��Miss Petillo?�� Ashe called out tentatively.


    The receptionist seemed to try to focus her gaze on Ashe, but it appeared that just controlling her eyeballs exhausted her remaining energy. She couldn��t say a word, and her eyes were devoid of any light, like a broken doll.


    This wasn��t the first time Ashe had seen someone in this state.


    On their first day in Vamora, he had seen a whole carriage full of such broken people.


    But the Senhaeser district was in the heart of Vamora, not the white mist-thinned outskirts��white mist?


    Ashe quickly turned his head to look out the window, rubbing his eyes to make sure he really saw a clear night sky.


    He ran over and opened the window, letting the refreshing night wind kiss his face.


    The moon hung high, the Stars twinkled, and from his vantage point in the city on the second level of the Senhaeser district, Ashe could clearly overlook the myriad lights of Vamora.


    The air was so clean it was almost sweet, and the visibility was so high that it made him want to take out an infraredmp and aim at distant buildings.


    ��White mist,�� he murmured, ��is gone?��


    ��I never thought I��d be on a mission in Vamora, let alone see the white mist of Vamora disappear one day.��


    A few hovercars flew past the chaotic intersection. Even with the assistance of an autonomous driving system, Vamora��s traffic had inevitablye to a standstill under the horrific impact of the entire city��s paralysis. The streets were filled with copsed citizens, as if someone had pressed a mysterious button that put the whole city to sleep.


    ��But isn��t this a bit of an overkill?��


    In one of the hovercars, a young man in a red hat chewing gum remarked, ��Paralyzing all of Vamora just to catch a few people.��


    ��Shut up, Leite,�� Cleos said, her eyes red and her nose sniffing. ��We��ve got the advantage, so let��s not push our luck. Finish the task and leave, and give Vamora back to them.��


    The two speakers were none other than two of the top ten Red Hat captains in the country, ��Weeping Sand Red Cap�� Cleos and ��Deadshot Red Hat�� Leite.


    Leite was the Red Hat captain of Modora, and the two First-tier Cities adjacent to Azura were Modora and Vamora, which is why Leite was involved in this operation to capture Ashe.


    Cleos had always wanted to im the credit for capturing Ashe entirely for herself. She had repeatedly stated in internalmunications that she would soon capture Ashe, so other Red Hat captains who were further away decided not to interfere. Only Leite, being the closest, insisted oning to share some of the glory, leaving Cleos with no other choice.


    Besides the two Red Hat teams, two firms were also apanying them tonight.


    Happy Family Firm needed no introduction; their ability to control smart home devices was useful anywhere. The other firm, however-


    ��No one hase out to intercept us so far. It seems Senhaeser really didn��t have any defenses,�� Leite said, pulling up a Holographic Screen. ��The final payment has been sent. It was a pleasure working with you.��


    ��Pleasure working with you too,�� a voice replied from the screen. ����Time Dissonance Firm�� ismitted to providing the mostprehensive concealment services for our clients. We look forward to your nextmission. Since the task isplete, our employees will now withdraw.��


    Time Dissonance Firm, ranked first in Modora and tenth nationwide, was the key to the sess of tonight��s operation.


    At its core, their raid tonight was a well-executed conspiracy that caught Senhaeserpletely off guard.


    And the biggest fear of any conspiracy is being discovered in advance.


    But in the Kingdom of Gospel, foreseeing a plot against oneself is quite simple.


    For example, if the Senhaeser patriarch asked the Gospel Book each day, ��Will there be a major threat to the family��s safety today?�� tonight��s raid n would have immediately fallen apart.


    What Time Dissonance Firm provided was the service of concealing plots and deceiving the Gospel.


    Although the Gospel Book faithfully records everything that has already happened, there is some room for maniption regarding unimplemented schemes still in the mind. For instance, if their original n was tounch the raid on the 19th, Time Dissonance Firm could make the Gospel Book believe the n was set for the 22nd, thus preventing the Senhaeser patriarch from finding the correct answer in the Gospel Book.


    This servicees at a great cost, of course. When the Gospel Book makes an error, itpensates tenfold or even a hundredfold in points, depending on the losses of the consulter. But the Gospel doesn��t take losses lightly; each mistake allows it to learn, making it exponentially harder to deceive next time.


    Time Dissonance Firm, which used to be firmly in the top five several decades ago, has now fallen to the tenth spot, reflecting the rapid evolution of the Gospel.


    However, until Time Dissonance Firm ispletely eliminated, every service they provide means a group of people is about to face an unexpected blow.


    ��Confirm the mission target,�� Cleos said into the radio. ��Ashe Heath, whoever captures him, the credit will be split seventy-thirty. Seventy percent goes to me.��


    ��Next are Annan Dn and Banjeet Dn. Although they have no criminal records yet, they are close to Ashe, and they might present themselves as criminals during the uing Weaving Festival. Tomorrow is the day the second ranking list is released. We need to detain them for 48 hours under the pretext of assisting in the investigation. If anything happens, we can arrest them immediately.��


    ��This wasn��t the deal!�� a voice from a nearby hovercar shouted. ��Ashe goes to the Red Hats, Annan goes to the Firm!��


    ��After the second ranking list is out, if Nabistin doesn��t issue a bounty for Annan and Banjeet, I will release them. Then, your Firm can handle your own disputes.��


    The affairsmissioner muttered something but ultimatelycked the courage to confront the Red Hats.


    After Cleos turned off the radio, ��Deadshot Red Hat�� Leite nced at her. ��Are you trying to protect the Purple Moth?��


    ��My target is Ashe Heath,�� Cleos replied. ��Not Annan.��


    ��But she can create chaos that could affect the Weaving Festival. What if����


    ��Wouldn��t that be even better?�� Cleos sniffed andughed. ��Capturing just one Ashe could make me the number one Red Hat. Unfortunately, I have to share the glory with you�� But if another Ashees along, I��ll be the top Red Hat for the next fifty years!��


    ��The world is about to end, and you still care about rankings?��


    Cleos hesitated and said, ��But�� I��m a Red Hat�� Of course, I care about my ranking����


    Leite was silent for a moment, then waved his hand. ��Forget what I just said�� But keeping Annan safe won��t be easy.��


    ��Annan is still aw-abiding citizen. Who would dare harm her?��


    ��There��s someone in the car behind us,�� Leite said calmly. ��Don��t forget who dispelled the white mist that had Entangled Vamora for hundreds of years. The secret guard from Nabistin is a judicial disaster that even the Gospel Book cannot constrain.��


    Through the rearview mirror, Cleos could see the armored guard sitting in the car behind them. Dressed in full ck Knight armor, not an inch of skin was exposed, and even the eyes were hidden behind a mask.


    It sat in the backseat like an ancient tombstone.


    Since gun sorcerers became the mainstream inbat, armor was relegated to the dustbin of history. Almost no sorcerers would wear such heavy armor unless they were stubborn adherents of ancient traditions.


    And the secret guard, indeed, inherited centuries-old traditions. They were the most loyal shield and the sharpest de of the Yisuo Royal Family. Since their appearance, they walked the Kingdom of Gospel as dark sentinels. No one knew who they were, and some even doubted if they were human��given that they neither ate, drank, excreted, nor entertained themselves. Many sorcerers believed that the secret guards were, in fact, animated suits of armor.


    These walking armors represented the highest authority of the Yisuo Royal Family.


    Not only did they represent this authority, but they could also directly mobilize royal resources to achieve any goal��such as dispersing Vamora��s white mist.


    Neither the Firm nor the Red Hats had the ability to disperse the white mist.


    A few days ago, Leite and Cleos were waiting outside Vamora, hoping Ashe and his group would leave voluntarily. It was then that the secret guard approached them, iming it could disperse the mist and assist in capturing Ashe Heath.


    Dispersing the mist covering an entire city without causing harm is no ordinary miracle; it could only be a Divine Intervention granted by the Gospel.


    Indeed, after the Red Hats and the Firm were ready, the secret guard summoned the Gospel Book. After some operations, the white mist of Vamora disappeared.


    Cleos couldn��t imagine how many Gospel points this Divine Intervention cost. Perhaps if she spent a century��s worth of savings, she might afford it, but she would never waste points sovishly.


    The points that a Sanctuary sorcerer might not earn in a lifetime were easily spent on what was essentially an environmental cleanup. Only the wealthy royal family could afford such extravagance.


    Cleos initially thought the secret guard was representing the Yisuo Royal Family to capture Ashe and Annan. However, the secret guard shook its head, indicating it would not interfere in the capture.


    It had another mission this time.


    ��To be honest, the secret guard really helped us,�� Cleos said. ��Dispersing the white mist not only paralyzed all of Vamora but also ensured that Senhaeser��s patriarch, who should still be in a Dream, couldn��t return without the mist as a medium. For at least an hour, we��ll only be facing a Senhaeser without amander.��


    ��In return for the secret guard��s help, we��ll make as much noise as possible, drawing all of Vamora��s attention to us. This way����


    ��The secret guard can more easily find its target,�� Leite finished.

 Chapter 343: Deluxe Gift Box of the Five Spirits of the Peerless Secret Sword

    Chapter 343: Deluxe Gift Box of the Five Spirits of the Peerless Secret Sword


    ��Why is there such a heavy fog in Vamora����


    Ashe paused, scratched out the question, and rewrote in the Gospel Book: ��Am I in danger tonight?��


    Gospel Book: ��Yes (costs 1 point).��


    Ashe pondered for a moment, then hid behind the counter, turning the Gospel Book to the page of ��Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook.�� He then opened the ��Senhaeser��s Dream�� and essed the ��dream shards exchange.��


    Tonight��s dream expedition was over, but with such a major incident��almost like a terrorist attack��Ashe felt their journey in Vamora might being to an end. Therefore, it was time to settle the gains from Senhaeser��s Dream in advance.


    No matter what was about to happen, the best course of action was to convert idle resources intobat power as quickly as possible!


    Ashe looked at his umted dream shards: 1553 in total, thanks to his (Substitute��s) hard work over the past few days. Although it seemed like a lot, the vast and rich rewards in the exchange made him feel like a kid with a $50 bill in a candy store, needing to spend it wisely.


    Fortunately, Ashe had already nned out which rewards to redeem during his idle moments while assembling his gaming team. This preemptive thinking about spending prize money before winning it was a form of mental entertainment for him.


    Thanks to his thorough research on the cost-effectiveness of each prize, Ashe didn��t need to think too much now and could directly grab the best package!First up was the ��Deluxe Gift Box of the Five Spirits of the Peerless Secret Sword��!


    Compared to the standard gift box, the deluxe gift box was only 100 shards more expensive but included two additional bonuses: an exclusive Miracle orb of the Five Spirits of the Peerless Secret Sword (immediately mastered upon use) and a crucial standard spirit needed tobine this Miracle.


    Unlike the Sword Princess, who could instantly master new Swordsmanship spirits, Ashe needed a day or two of training to barely reach abat-ready state. Even then, unless the spirit��s basic effect was exceptionally outstanding, Ashe would rather use a Miracle.


    Don��t forget, the number of spirits a sorcerer can use simultaneously is limited. For Ashe, the maximum is four spirits at once; any more and he would be overwhelmed.


    To illustrate, controlling spirits is like ying a real-time strategy (RTS) game. A powerful sorcerer can precisely control each unit for tactical maneuvers, but Ashe can only manage strategy��selecting all units andunching a single wave attack.


    Since arriving on the Time Continent, Ashe hadn��t updated his spirit system much. He stuck with a remote support setup centered around the ��sword body barrier�� because it was the only Miracle he had truly mastered. His self-created ��Rush�� Movement Miracle and the ��sh Me�� negative status removal Miracle were mostly unused in everyday situations.


    As for ��Heart Sword�� and ��Sword Mark,�� they were basic attacks, akin to scratching an itch.


    He desperately needed a Miracle that dealt burst damage, so he immediately set his sights on this deluxe gift box.


    Redeem!


    ��You have opened the ��Deluxe Gift Box of the Five Spirits of the Peerless Secret Sword.����


    ��You have obtained the two-wings spirit ��Love Sword.����


    ��You have obtained the two-wings spirit ��Devotion.����


    ��You have obtained the Miracle orb ��Single-minded Devotion.����


    Although Ashe was thrilled that the gift box yielded the most suitable two-wings spirits for him, the names of these spirits made him feel like his dream of burst damage had once again slipped away.


    ��Love Sword��


    ��Two-wings Spirit��


    ��Restriction: The sorcerer must be capable of generating emotions.��


    ��Basic Effect: Consumes current emotions to summon a freely controble Love Sword.��


    ��Passive Effect: Your emotions be more intense, outwardly enhancing your personality traits.��


    ��You must be as happy as I am to share; you must be as sad as I am to apologize.��


    ��Devotion��


    ��Two-wings Spirit��


    ��Restriction: The sorcerer must be capable of generating emotions.��


    ��Basic Effect: Transforms all your current emotions into a single specified emotion. Currently transformable emotions include anger, love, joy, and sadness.��


    ��Passive Effect: You will be more dedicated to any given task, reducing the likelihood of being indecisive or emotionally fickle.��


    ��In the sorcerer��s world, emotions can also be fabricated.��


    ��Miracle: Single-minded Devotion: By converting emotions through Devotion, a specific Love Sword is generated. Depending on the emotion, the Love Sword has different effects:


    Rage Sword: Extremely fast attack speed with powerful armor-breaking capabilities.


    Joy Sword: Provides healing effects to both body and soul.


    Sorrow Sword: Moderate attack speed. Each hit applies various negative statuses to the target, such as slow, blind, tinnitus, and stun.


    Love Sword: Enhances the target��s overall physical attributes.��


    How should I put it�� Although it can deal burst damage, is very practical, and has a wide range of applications��


    This Miracle still seems like a support type! I��ll still have to stand in the back and provide support and sustain!


    I just wanted to show off in front of the Witch and the sword Princess��was that too much to ask!?


    After purchasing the deluxe gift box, Ashe��s dream shards dropped from four digits to three. However, the ��Single-minded Devotion�� Miracle was indeed a big help. Originally, Ashe had nned to buy a medical spirit for emergencies, but now with the Joy Sword, he could save a lot.


    With some dream shards remaining, Ashe couldn��t help but eye the top prizes in ��Senhaeser��s Dream,�� which were the most expensive:


    ��One-Winged Spirit: Secret Toxin Diary��


    ��Random Spirit Summoning Card��


    ��Operator Possession Card��


    Among these, Ashe had previously drawn the Random Spirit Summoning Card, a Golden Legend-level functional card. Its actual effect lived up to its rarity��the operator would summon a spirit at her current spellforce level within a week. When the sword Princess was still a One-Winged Sorcerer, she summoned a One-Winged Mental Spirit, which even elevated the Mental Sect to the silver level.


    Now that they are Two-Wings Sorcerers, using this card would naturally summon a random two-wings spirit, and the corresponding spellcasting sect would also be upgraded to the golden level.


    These three prizes were priced the same, indicating that the other two were also Golden Legend level. However, Ashe initially didn��t consider these prizes. After all, the Empress in the Virtual Realm was always ready to disrupt their small family of three, and these prizes wouldn��t immediately enhance his power. It seemed wiser to buy a spirit gift box to address his shorings in attack, defense, debuffing, and healing.


    But the Love Sword turned out to be extremely practical. It was like Ashe nned to buy a bunch of entertainment devices but ended up with a smartphone that could barely meet all his entertainment needs. As the saying goes, ��It��s not unusable.�� Ashe didn��t need to spend more funds chasing minor performance improvements.


    Among the top prizes, the Random Spirit Summoning Card was the first to be eliminated. Although its practicality was widely recognized, its pitfalls were also well-known, thanks to the sword Princess��s resistance. The Summoning Ritual waspletely random; the sword Princess once drew a ritual requiring her to ��speak only the truth,�� which drastically altered her social rtionships.


    Although the oue was good, if Ashe dared to use it again, the sword Princess would definitely fight him to the death.


    Since it couldn��t be used on the sword Princess, it naturally couldn��t be used on the Witch either, as her state was even worse than the sword Princess in many ways.


    Ashe himself didn��t need it either. This card was essentially a specialized training course for a specific Spellcasting Sect. It��s like training employees, not bosses.


    The Operator Possession Card had a more subtle effect. In short, Ashe could temporarily summon an operator to possess him, allowing the operator to control his body in battle.


    Since it was a soul possession, the operator��s spirit woulde along, allowing the operator to unleash their fullbat power using ��Ashe��s battle avatar.��


    To be fair, this card was worth its Golden Legend status. If used correctly, it could even reverse the tide of battle.


    But the problem was, the sword Princess and the Witch were only slightly stronger than Ashe��


    If they were four wings legend sorcerers, with Ashe focusing on support, the sword Princess on assault, and the Witch on control, the power gap between them would be significant. An enemy Ashe couldn��t resist might be defeated by a single strike from the sword Princess. In that scenario, the Operator Possession Card could be Ashe��s ace in the hole.


    But they were currently only two-wings golden sorcerers. While the sword Princess could defeat Ashe, it wasn��t to the extent of aplete stomp. Ashe could prolong his survival through defense, evasion, and harassment tactics. If Ashe couldn��t defeat an enemy, switching to the sword Princess might not change the oue either.


    The card was good, but it came too early; the timing wasn��t right.


    Therefore, Ashe chose to purchase the first top prize.

 Chapter 344: Ashe, Run

    Chapter 344: Ashe, Run


    ��Secret Toxin Diary��


    ��One-Winged Spirit��


    ��Restriction: The sorcerer must possess writing skills.��


    ��Basic Effect: Summon a diary in which you can freely write. When youplete a piece of secret toxin information, you will be immune to all effects of the secret toxin. Current number of secret toxins recorded: 0/1.��


    ��Passive Effect: A copy of your notebook will appear in the Virtual Realm. When the copy exceeds 500 readings, this spirit will be automatically promoted to Two-Wings. Current readings: 0/500.��


    ��Writing for yourself is called a diary; writing for others is called a biography.��


    Given his surplus supplies, Ashe found it hard to resist purchasing this diary-this was his only known means to resist the effects of the secret toxin!


    For a sorcerer, secret toxins are akin to staying upte, smoking, or working a job: you know they��ll severely impact your physical and mental health, but since the consequences manifest in a distant future, you endure them despite your worries, epting the blows as theye.


    Although the Secret Toxin Diary can currently record only one type of secret toxin, it at least offers Ashe, who suffers from multiple chronic conditions, a glimmer of hope for recovery.Moreover, if Ashe��s guess is correct, he should be able to update the recorded secret toxin information at any time. This means that if the number of secret toxin infections suddenly surges, he can promptly document the outbreak. As other infected individuals gradually sumb, the toxin��s destructive power will decrease to a manageable level.


    As long as multiple secret toxins don��t erupt simultaneously, Ashe��s life is not in immediate danger.


    Every operator should have one of these diaries, but it��s uncertain when the next event will offer it. Nheless, this is a long-term virus prevention strategy and cannot be rushed.


    Another point that surprised Ashe was that the ��Secret Toxin Diary�� is a spirit, yet its effects far exceed those of a One-Winged Spirit and are highly specialized.


    If a sorcerer unaware of the secret toxin obtained it, it would essentially be useless.


    However, this wasn��t the first time Ashe had encountered a low-level spirit withprehensive yet quirky abilities. Compared to the zero wing spirit ��Soul Summoning,�� the ��Secret Toxin Diary�� seemed a bit more bnced and less overpowered.


    After purchasing the ��Secret Toxin Diary,�� Ashe didn��t have many dream shards left, but there were still plenty of odd prizes avable.


    For example, the ��Spirit Rtionship Information�� could reveal an unknown spirit rtionship. Using this information, the Gate of Truth of the spirit would designate a safe Virtual Realm area of about 50 square meters. In simpler terms, this information could grant a sorcerer a 50 square meter mobile storage space.


    It sounded great, but the Virtual Realm only allowed souls to enter. To store items in the Virtual Realm, special artifacts or auxiliary Miracles were required, and Ashe had neither. It was like buying a wife cake without having a wife to share it with.


    In the end, Ashe decided to buy a ��Swordsmanship Orb�� and a ��Fist-w Orb.�� These Experience Orbs were not for Ashe��s personal use. To maximize the Bond rtionship and Experience Sharing, the Experience Orbs had to be fed to the witch and the sword princess.


    Just as Ashe was about to close the exchange shop, he suddenly noticed a new prize at the bottom of the list.


    ��Witch��s Dream: 10 dream shards, use immediately upon exchange. For 24 hours, your Mental Sect Realm will temporarily elevate to the Golden level. Can only be exchanged once.��


    Witch��s Dream? Ashe blinked. Did this reward appear because he chose the witch as his role in the dream expedition?


    If he had chosen the sword princess, would the exchange shop have offered the Sword Princess��s Dream, temporarily elevating his Swordsmanship Sect to the Golden level for 24 hours?


    Lost in thought, Ashe exchanged for the ��Witch��s Dream.�� After all, it was only 10 dream shards��why not?


    Whether it was an illusion or not, after exchanging for the ��Witch��s Dream,�� Ashe felt that his Mental Sect seemed to have genuinely elevated. If before he could only glean short essays of no more than 140 characters from someone��s gaze, now it felt like he could deliver a full thesis defense just with his eyes.


    Closing ��Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook��, Ashe opened the Gospel Book and inquired, ��Open the Funeral Firm chat group.��


    Since these past few days were all free activity, Annan had spent some Gospel points to create their exclusive chat group. Any issues could be discussed there. While there were civilian alternatives, the instantaneity and confidentiality of themunication service provided by the Gospel were unparalleled.


    The chat group��s logs were sparse, mostly consisting of Annan��s notifications and neat rows of ��received�� replies. After all, in a chat group with a superior, many things are left unsaid, so the quietness was expected.


    However, the chat group was quite lively at this moment��


    ��Mr. Bukin: I��m on my way to meet Ashe. Where are you all?��


    ��Death Artist: I��m heading to Ashe too.��


    ��Butler: Same here.��


    ��Butler: Youngdy? Youngdy?��


    ��Butler: Why hasn��t the youngdy checked the group?��


    ��Mr. Bukin: Can the youngdy not handle the craving attack by herself?��


    ��Butler: Impossible.��


    ��Mr. Bukin: Why hasn��t Ashe checked the group either?��


    ��Death Artist: Ashe, run.��


    Ashe was taken aback. He suddenly realized that if the enemy causing Vamora��s mutation was indeed targeting them, their first target would undoubtedly be him. He was currently wanted by the Empire, ranked on the Art Ranking as a suspected doomsday culprit, and eliminating him wouldn��t lead to a red name��


    Crash! Crash! Crash!


    The windows of the gaming floor shattered consecutively. Red Hats, representing the Gospel��s armed forces, burst into the room, stepping on bncer boots. Leading them, Cleos held a short gun in her left hand and raised a document with her right: ��Inter-district search warrant. We are conducting a raid!��


    ��We��ve got him.��


    Leite raised a bolt-action sniper gun with one hand, aiming at the ck-robed Ashe hiding behind the front desk: ��I am Leite Rex, captain of the Modora Red Hat team. You are suspected of being the individual on wanted notice 69-165. Raise your hands high and face the wall for inspection.��


    ��How did you know I was here?�� Ashe put on the Twisting Mask. ��The Twisting Mask should block the Gospel Book��s tracking on me.��


    In the Weave rewards of the Art Ranking, the Fiend trench coat could cause mental shock, while the Twisting Mask improved concentration and distorted detection effects.


    Annan and the others had all tried it. Whenever they attempted to determine Ashe��s location through any means, the Gospel��s feedback was always absurdly off the mark.


    This was also why Ashe hadn��t been abandoned yet. He always carried the Fiend trench coat and the Twisting Mask. If they could easily determine his location through special items, Annan keeping Ashe around would be akin to turning herself in.


    ��The Gospel indeed couldn��t pinpoint your location,�� Leite said with a smile. ��But we found your gaming ount at Annan��s ce. Although you didn��t use that ount here, it��s not hard to use the Gospel to search for two yers with the same behavior patterns-after all, I was searching for your yer ount, not you personally. It seems the Twisting Mask isn��t that smart.��


    ��Then we pinpointed your login address, infiltrated your gaming team, and determined your ytime. Naturally, we knew you��d be here at this specific time.��


    Ashe was stunned. ��You����


    ��Didn��t I tell you I had work tonight?��


    Leite��s sniper rifle was aimed at Ashe��s chest. ��Captain, you should feel honored. I��m an Ultimate Mode yer. ying Extreme Mode with a noob like you was really painful.��

 Chapter 345: The Battle Returns

    Chapter 345: The Battle Returns


    Escape? Escape was certain. Not to mention Leite, but Cleos was a bona fide three-wing Sanctuary. I had no chance of winning.


    Hostage? The only person beside me was the receptionist, and not to mention whether my conscience would allow it, the problem was that the receptionist was already incapacitated and couldn��t even move.


    If taking a mobile person as a hostage is like riding a horse, then taking an immobile person as a hostage is like being ridden by the horse. It would only increase the Red Hat��s anger without any other effect.


    Ashe knew the battle was unavoidable. He was currently at the reception desk, a distance from the stairs, and had to fight to gain a chance to escape.


    So, how should he fight? Generally, at this point, Ashe would choose to use a Substitute to attract the enemy��s attention by sacrificing it��


    But the Substitute should still be with Lise��


    After a moment of silence, Ashe suddenly raised his hands and stood up, walking towards the Red Hats voluntarily. ��I surrender.��


    ��No surrender allowed!�� Leite and Cleos shouted in unison. The Red Hats all raised their guns and aimed at Ashe��being a T0 level Spellcasting Sect of this generation, almost all Red Hats were gun sorcerers, and even if it wasn��t their main sect, it was their secondary sect.


    Ashe was stunned. ��You won��t even let me surrender? Then why haven��t you just shot me already? Are you really this barbaric?��The two Red Hat captains were also frustrated. They knew exactly what Ashe was up to, but they really couldn��t lead by illegally killing a surrendering criminal. In fact, they didn��t even dare to harm Ashe��unless Ashe explicitly resisted arrest. Otherwise, even though Ashe was a fugitive, if they initiated the attack, the Gospel Book would deem them guilty of intentional harm.


    Civilization is a shackle on violence; the more civilized a country, the more cautious it is in using violence.


    In the Blood Moon Kingdom, they might still secretly break thew, but the strongest point of the Gospel Book Kingdom is that supervision is omnipresent. As long as the Red Hats wanted to remain on the ranking list, they absolutely wouldn��t dare to break thew first.


    Cleos motioned for a Red Hat to put handcuffs on Ashe, her eyes reddening. ��Keep your hands up. If you make any sudden moves, we��ll target your vital points. Any movement will be met with lethal force.��


    ��I��m just a mere two-wings sorcerer; how could I dare act out in front of a Sanctuary sorcerer?�� Ashe shrugged and waited obediently for the Red Hat to restrain him.


    However, as the Red Hat approached Ashe, his ck robe suddenly split open��he had used his Heart Sword to cut through his clothes!


    Bang! Bang!


    ��Close your eyes!��


    As Leite shouted, Ashe immediately dashed towards the game pods.


    Because he had waited for the Red Hat to get close before revealing his dagger, a slight sidestep allowed him to hide behind the Red Hat, making it impossible for the others to risk hitting their colleague. The bullets all struck the ground.


    All the Red Hats quickly closed their eyes and scattered, but several of them still aimed their guns at the stairwell and windows. Ashe��sst bit of hope vanished as he obediently ran into the aisle between the game pods, feeling a pang of regret��


    The Red Hats had almost entirely avoided his ��Fiend Trench Coat�� intimidation!


    As soon as he shed his robe, they had all closed their eyes, none of them witnessing Ashe��s fiendish visage!


    It made sense, though. The Art Ranking had clearly disyed his reward, and after Ashe had used the ��Fiend Trench Coat�� to scare off two affairsmissioners from the Happy Family Firm in Azura, the Red Hats were undoubtedly prepared.


    But this also worked in his favor. Since they had closed their eyes and abandoned their most crucial sense, Ashe could escape more easily. Though it was despicable, under the cover of the dense game pods, the Red Hats wouldn��t dare to attack recklessly. If they injured an innocent Vamora citizen, they could say goodbye to their hats��


    However��


    Ashe suddenly froze, a wave of fear crawling up his scalp, his cells screaming to prevent him from stepping into death. Without thinking, he immediately spat out his Honey Sword, driving it into the ground. A warm, yellow barrier formed instantly!


    ��Sword Body Barrier!��


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Three explosions echoed in the space. Ashe couldn��t see anything before his sword body barrier shattered, and his abdomen felt like it was struck by the tail of a de Fish Dragon. He only felt himself being lifted off the ground, his stomach bursting like a water balloon. The intense impact turned his vision into a kaleidoscope of colors��


    Smack!


    His back mmed into the cold, hard floor, and Ashe spat out a mouthful of bloody foam. The cold air he inhaled felt like knives stabbing into his lungs. The pain overwhelmed his thoughts, leaving only a faint glimmer ofbat instincts��


    It was a Bouncing Bullet!


    Ashe was surrounded by game pods on all sides, so theoretically, the Red Hats shouldn��t have been able to shoot him. But that Bouncing Bullet ricocheted off the ceiling and walls twice, hitting Ashe from above at an impossible angle. Its power was undiminished, instantly shattering his two-wings Defensive Miracle, the sword body barrier, and still having enough force to strike his abdomen��not piercing it, but delivering a Miracle Shockwave Bullet that converted all its kic energy into a massive hammer blow, changing a potentially fatal shot into a more difficult-to-heal internal injury!


    The Sword Princess had taught him that there were generally two directions for Gunmanship sects: either fatal precision, essentially headshots ensuring instant death, or extreme high-intensity destructive power, ensuring the enemy couldn��t defend or heal.


    If it were a non-headshot piercing wound, it would be rtively easy for sorcerers to heal, given the small wound area and the effectiveness of various Healing Miracles. However, those high-intensity blunt force injuries that massively damaged the body could instantly incapacitate a sorcerer, preventing them from healing quickly.


    Ashe felt like his abdomen had turned into mush, his intestines tangled worse than shoces, and several ribs were likely shattered. He was teetering on the brink of death, his strengthpletely drained. The Red Hats�� bullets were indeed gentle; Ashe couldn��t even think about resisting now, as even breathing required all his effort.


    If only he still had the Reverse Day spirit gifted by the Sword Princess, he could have healed instantly.


    Unfortunately, he had lost it by answering wrong in the Cabin.


    Sword Princess��


    ��You don��t need to surrender or resist. In ten seconds, you��ll be unconscious. We��ll take you away once you��re asleep,�� Leite��s voice grew closer, apanied by the sound of footsteps. ��Don��t feel bad. I��m a three-wings gun sorcerer. Even if you are a physical sorcerer, if I want you unconscious in a few seconds, you��ll be unconscious in a few seconds.��


    Another three-wings sorcerer, and the most violent kind��a gun sorcerer. Plus, Cleos was nearby, meaning two Sanctuary sorcerers were here to capture him��


    The first time Ashe was caught, it was by one Sanctuary sorcerer.


    The second time, it was by two Sanctuary sorcerers.


    Ashe could only hope this was an arithmetic progression, not a geometric one.


    But this time, escape seemed impossible. Ashe was finally about to return to his old profession��as a professional prison evaluator, he was ready to thoroughly assess the facilities of the Kingdom of Gospel��s prison.


    However, when Ashe barely recovered from his concussion and opened his eyes, he saw Igor on the ceiling.


    The Con Artist had removed a ceiling tile and was peeking down at him, his gaze as cold as if he were looking at a piece of pork.


    Igor pointed to himself, then to the ground, before finally beckoning Ashe to stand up.


    Ashe didn��t fully understand Igor��s tactical signnguage but grasped his task��to stand up as a decoy.


    As long as he stood up, the ��Fiend Trench Coat�� intimidation effect would continue, and the Red Hats wouldn��t dare to open their eyes, forcing them to fight without their sight!


    But standing up was extremely dangerous. Ashe wasn��t an upstanding citizen; he was a bona fide fugitive. The Red Hats killing him wouldn��t just be excused; they��d get a reward!


    Yet, at this point, how could Ashe not trust Igor?


    He clenched his sword fingers, activated the Devotion spirit, converting all his pain, fear, and fighting spirit into joy. Then he activated the Love Sword spirit, conjuring a ��Joy Sword,�� and stabbed it into his abdomen!


    Miracle: Single-minded Devotion: Joy Sword!


    Warmth spread from his abdomen, soothing his entire body. Joy seeped in from the outside in, and Ashe was pleasantly surprised to find his pain suppressed by the Joy Sword, at least not dominating his thoughts. The gears of his body could barely start moving again.


    Though the pain would likely return once the Joy Sword��s effect wore off, Ashe could at least hold out long enough toplete his tactical task!


    ��Ugh!��


    Ashe propped himself up against the game pod and stood. He saw Cleos appear in the hallway. He groaned and summoned the Heart Sword,unching it at the Sanctuary sorcerer!


    ��Confirming that Ashe Heath is resisting arrest,�� Cleos said, effortlessly shattering the Heart Sword with her eyes closed. ��Lift the kill restriction!��


    Boom!


    The floor suddenly shook, and a massive, ghostly green magic circle appeared beneath the Red Hats. Ghostly green smoke seeped into their bodies, quickly reacting with their souls.


    Even with their eyes closed, the Red Hats seemed to see a deserted, rainy night street. Their clothes felt soaked, cold wind stinging their faces, and a barrage of negative emotions��despair, sorrow, self-pity, fear, and coldness��overwhelmed their hearts. Even Cleos and Leite shivered slightly.


    Directly beneath the Red Hats, on the lower level, an inverted coffin was suspended from the ceiling. Several ghostly green chains emerged from the coffin, tightly anchoring it to the ceiling, forming an octagonal magic circle. Harveyy on the ground, gazing up at the coffin with his hands sped in prayer.


    Miracle: Immortal Coffin on a Cold Rainy Night!


    Using necromancy to achieve the effects of the Illusion Sect and Mental Sect, it poured negative energy into the enemies, causing them to hallucinate!


    In the few breaths while the Red Hats were dazed, Igor jumped down and pulled Ashe into the Red Hats�� blind spot. He raised his voice and shouted, ��I��m about to release a Mental Scream. Ordinary people within ten meters will drop dead instantly just by hearing it. Three, two, one!��


    The Red Hats, struggling to break free from the negative energy, turned pale. The Mental Scream was imminent, and they had no time to kill Igor, the mastermind behind this!


    Ashe was initially puzzled by Igor��s habit of narrating his ultimate move, but just before Igor unleashed his silent scream, the Red Hats raised their guns and fired at various parts of the gaming floor��ground, ceiling, and walls��using Earth spell Miracles to create temporary soundproof barriers!


    At the moment Igor released his silent scream, a petite blue figure flipped over the outer wall and onto the gaming floor��it was Banjeet Dn.


    The strongest ice gun sorcerer from the Funeral Firm.


    At that moment, the young butler faced a group of Red Hats with their backs to him.


    In one second, the dual ice spell guns emptied their magazines, and 62 Miracle bullets rained down on the enforcers like a sudden downpour. Upon impact, these bullets would extract the blood from the enemies�� bodies, forming sharp ice flowers for secondary damage, turning death into a brilliant, crystalline work of art!


    The perfectbination of gun spellcasting and ice spells, where efficiency and eleganceplement each other!


    Miracle: Blooming Ice!

 Chapter 346: Abandoning Ashe

    Chapter 346: Abandoning Ashe


    Igor discovered that in a dream, as long as your imagination is rich and detailed enough, you can create an illusion that interacts normally with you, even without a ��real person�� assisting.


    So, he created a cow-horse illusion and traveled with it through various dangerous ruins and mysterious ces. When there was danger, the cow-horse would take the fall; when there was work, the cow-horse would do it. He had been very happy these past few days.


    As for the love task arranged by Annan, he nned to just muddle through it. When the second ranking listes out, he would exin to the youngdy, ��I��m sorry, I can��t distinguish between my love and killing intent. When I fall in love, I end up killing the other person.��


    After ending tonight��s dream journey, Igor crawled out from under the bed. Just as he was about to take a bath to rx his nerves, his heart suddenly pounded hard.


    ��The first heartbeat is the final warning.��


    The revtion he received while brushing his teeth in the morning was vivid in his mind. Before his other senses could react, Igor immediately cast ��Heart of Stone�� and ��Iron Will�� on himself, maintaining absolute calm to withstand the hormone imbnce triggered by his craving attack.


    He didn��t even need to look at the window to guess that the concentration of white mist outside had dropped to a life-threatening level. Even if it wasn��t the whole of Vamora, at least the Senhaeser district was affected; otherwise, he wouldn��t have suddenly experienced withdrawal symptoms while living in the core area of Senhaeser.


    At this sensitive moment, a city-wide disaster in Vamora must be rted to the few of them, the outsiders.


    If I were the attacker, my first target would be��Igor tightened his robe, took a few steps in his slippers, then kicked them off, put on his pre-prepared emergency escape outfit, and left the room barefoot. As he moved, he opened the Gospel Book and summoned the funeral chat group.


    ��Bukin: I��m on my way to meet Ashe. Where are you all?��


    ��Death Artist: I��m also heading to Ashe.��


    ��Butler: Same here.��


    ��Butler: Youngdy? Youngdy?��


    ��Butler: Why hasn��t the youngdy checked the group?��


    ��Bukin: Can the youngdy not handle the craving attack by herself?��


    ��Butler: Impossible.��


    Igor squinted his eyes, thinking that Banjeet and Annan were indeed prepared to leave Vamora at any moment.


    He himself was temporarily suppressing the withdrawal symptoms with a mental miracle. If Igor guessed correctly, the necromancer didn��t suppress the withdrawal symptoms but rather satisfied his craving directly with smoking and sugar. It was said that he had been trying to quit smoking recently, but it seemed he was about to fail.


    As for Banjeet and Annan, neither of them specialized in the Mental Sect, and they didn��t have a habit of smoking. Their ability to recover from withdrawal symptoms immediately could only mean they had prepared in advance.


    Walking down the corridor to the elevator shaft, Igor saw several Senhaeser nsmen lying quietly on the side, their eyes vacant, their consciousnesses nk, like poor-quality toys whose springs had suddenly broken. Igor nced at them and hurried by. Fortunately, there were no such still-breathing corpses inside the elevator.


    However, Annan, Lise, and Ashe had remained silent until now, which made Igor��s heart sink-could Ashe have been overwhelmed by the craving attack?


    ��Bukin: Why hasn��t Ashe checked the group either?��


    ��Death Artist: Ashe, run.��


    The Con Artist frantically pressed the elevator buttons, canceling the descent to the 72nd floor where the gaming floor was located, and selected the 73rd floor instead. Harvey��s warning was definitely not without reason. Going to the gaming floor where Ashe was now would be walking into a trap. Igor queried the Gospel Book, ��Show personnel activity within a 100-meter radius and disy a 3D perspective map, real-time monitoring for 10 seconds.��


    The Gospel Book transformed into a real-time monitoring map: ��(Consumes 50 Gospel Points) Please see the map.��


    On the map, there were many green dots representing living beings. Most of these green dots were neatly arranged, likely the Senhaeser nsmen lying in the gaming pods; in the open area near the windows, there was a group of green dots still moving, clearly the invaders who hade in after the white mist dispersed.


    From the map, it could be seen that this group of green dots was confronting another trembling green dot, which was undoubtedly their beloved primitive man, who didn��t know to check the group chat in time.


    ��Bukin: Ashe was caught on the 72nd floor. I��m heading to the 73rd floor. Where are you all?��


    ��Death Artist: I��m going to the 71st floor.��


    ��Butler: I��ve already slid down the outer wall to the 72nd floor. There��s a group of Red Hats inside, eight in total. Among them are two three-winged sorcerers, ��Weeping Sand Red Cap�� Cleos and ��Deadshot Red Hat�� Leite. Ashe is beyond saving.��


    Two Sanctuary sorcerers!?


    Igor felt a chill down his spine��they couldn��t even handle one Sanctuary sorcerer, let alone two. Was it really necessary to deploy two Sanctuary-level sorcerers to capture a criminal as insignificant as Ashe? Such extravagant waste should be legited against!


    If Senhaeser were still functioning normally, due to the Pact restrictions, Qenna would definitely help them escape. Whether through official channels or violence, as a local powerhouse, Qenna could make these Red Hats pay dearly.


    But now the white mist had dispersed, and the Senhaeser n was nearly paralyzed. Qenna was out of the question! Igor even suspected that Qenna had be like the broken toys, only her Sanctuary-level strength made her a more advanced broken toy��broken sorcerer/patriarch/elf toy.


    Let��s not forget, Igor and the others had only been in Vamora for a few days, but the withdrawal symptoms caused by the dispersal of the white mist quickly rendered them incapacitated, giving them at most one or two seconds of ckout protection time.


    If we use cured meat as a standard, they were still not properly marinated as neers.


    Those who had lived in Vamora for decades, thoroughly marinated from their body pores to the folds of their souls inside and out, were likely instantly ��popped����their fuses burnt out, causing aplete system shutdown without even a moment of ckout protection.


    In other words, the fact that Vamora��s people didn��t immediately drop dead or explode, but merely cked out and awaited a reboot, indicated that the Family Rebirth Dream had indeed preserved their original human essence, preventing them from degenerating into bizarre creatures entirely dependent on inhaling and exhaling white mist.


    ��Butler: Forget about Ashe. We��ve lost contact with Miss as well. We need to protect her first.��


    ��Bukin: No.��


    ��Butler: Do you have a way to rescue Ashe from the Red Hats?��


    The elevator stopped at the 73rd floor, the storage level. Igor��s mind raced with countless thoughts, and he exhaled softly.


    ��Bukin: Yes. Harvey, can you create a distraction from below? We don��t need to cause harm, just a distraction.��


    ��Death Artist: If we��re targeting Sanctuary sorcerers, the distraction time can only be measured in breaths.��


    ��Bukin: That��s enough. Banjeet, stay on the outer wall. When you get my signal, storm the gaming floor and shoot up the Red Hats.��


    ��Butler: The enemyprises Sanctuary sorcerers who far surpass us. Whatever we do, we stand no chance. Attacking the Red Hats will only get us captured too! With Miss��s situation uncertain, we should protect her first. Once she��s safe, she can figure out a way to rescue Ashe from the Red Hats!��


    ��Butler: Bukin, Harvey, we have no choice but to abandon Ashe for now.��

 Chapter 347: The Sanctuary Sorcerer

    Chapter 347: The Sanctuary Sorcerer


    Banjeet��s refusal was expected by Igor.


    Among the three who had lost contact, Banjeet only cared about Annan. Any action that might impede his rescue of Annan would never be approved. Banjeet initially rushed towards the gaming floor because he believed Annan would also seek out Ashe. However, now that Annan hadn��t appeared and Ashe was trapped, Banjeet had no reason to take risks.


    If Ashe and Annan fell into the water together, Banjeet would undoubtedly let Annan step on Ashe to get ashore.


    The young butler shared so much with the group because he hoped to persuade the two new employees to join him in searching for Annan. After all, Annan��s current situation was unclear, and she likely encountered an enemy, so the more reinforcements, the better.


    No matter how well they got along usually, no matter that Ashe had learned Gunmanship from Banjeet, or that Ashe, Lise, and Banjeet had once yed the ssic game of ��we��ll y this with our kids someday��-when it came to crucial moments, the weight of life still made a decisive difference.


    What people value varies greatly from person to person.


    The butler was like this, and so was the Con Artist.


    Igor knew he had to convince Banjeet. Among the three of them, Igor could only serve as support, Harvey required extensive preparation, and only Banjeet could unleash explosive power at any time.


    Banjeet had been a two-wings sorcerer for decades, primarily mastering Gunmanship and Ice Spell, bothbat-focused spellcasting sects. Who knows to what extent he had honed hisbat skills.Although Banjeet had never ascended to the three wings Sanctuary in his lifetime, it only indicated the limit of his talent, not hisck of effort. In the world of sorcerers, effort is a fundamental quality every Virtual Realm traveler possesses. Any sorcerer not diligent enough would be motivated after being eaten by a de Fish Dragon a few times.


    Unfortunately, the realm ceiling of spellcasting sects is intangible and elusive. If a sorcerer can��t break through, they simply can��t break through. Experience Orbs are extremely precious, and many sorcerers spend their entire lives without reaching higher levels of the Virtual Realm. But one can��t hang themselves on a single tree; if they can��t advance in one sect, sorcerers will train in other sects to try their luck.


    Over time, every senior sorcerer typically masters several spellcasting sects and integrates them, creating new miracles and even new spirit systems. This is especially evident among Elf sorcerers. As long as an Elf sorcerer, who is several hundred years old, continues to update their knowledge system, their foundation bes so deep that they can easily crush human sorcerers of the same level who are only a few decades old.


    Even if their spellforce no longer grows, sorcerers can still transform time into overall strength.


    For sorcerers like Banjeet, whose spellforce has stopped growing but has been immersed in techniques for decades and has the guidance of the Gospel, they have undoubtedly constructed a wless spirit system. Among them, the only one who can challenge a Sanctuary sorcerer is Banjeet!


    ��Mr. Bukin, don��t forget, Ashe is Annan��s employee. The Red Hats will definitely arrest Annan on charges of harboring a fugitive. If we don��t intercept the Red Hats here, even if we find Annanter, we��ll still face the pursuit of the Sanctuary sorcerer.��


    ��Mr. Bukin, the Red Hats are all on the gaming floor now. They are in the open, and we are in the dark. If we can severely wound them now, our escape will be much easier. Or do you prefer a life-and-death chase with the Red Hats under the vast night sky, rather than using the terrain advantage to strike first?��


    Three seconds.


    Two seconds.


    One second.


    ��Butler: Do we have a chance?��


    ��Mr. Bukin: Yes.��


    Indeed, without Ashe��s involvement, schemes and plots usually proceed very smoothly.


    ��I��m about to release a Mental Scream. Ordinary people within ten meters will die instantly upon hearing it! Three, two, one.��


    Igor pulled Ashe into the blind spot of the gaming pod��s view and calmly counted down aloud.


    The countdown was not only to pressure the Red Hats but also to signal Banjeet��s timing to enter.


    The key to breaking this situation wasn��t themselves, but the Red Hats.


    The Red Hats have the legal right to use force, but they are also bound by numerous restraints.<ol><li>


    They are not allowed to attack a fugitive first, unless thetter has clearly resisted arrest.</li></ol><ol start="2"><li>


    They are not allowed to harm innocent civilians at any time.</li></ol><ol start="3"><li>


    When a criminal makes a clear criminal deration, if they have the ability to provide relief, they must prioritize providing relief!</li></ol>


    Igor didn��t spend all those days watching documentaries and TV dramas just for entertainment. These three Red Hat regtions were masterfully manipted by scriptwriters to create numerous dilemmas that questioned the humanity of the Red Hats.


    When he learned the attackers were Red Hats, Igor immediately realized he had a chance to exploit the shackles on the Red Hats and create a slim opportunity for Ashe to escape��


    By using Ashe to seal their vision, Harvey to shock their minds, and then Igor to make a criminal deration, he forced them to quickly erect a soundproof barrier to protect other Vamora citizens on the gaming floor. This emptied their magazines and diverted their attention, allowing Igor��s Mental Scream to cover Banjeet��s fatal gunshot, annihting this group of Red Hats who were out at night kidnapping men!


    As a price, Igor��s clean Gospel citizen record, maintained for less than twenty days, would finally bear a significant criminal mark.


    If Harvey could exin his actions as a prank, and Ashe��s wanted notice might be revoked, then Igor��s premeditated criminal act of attempting to release arge-scale destructive miracle in a densely popted area left no room for exnation. If this resulted in the deaths of many corrupted Senhaeser nsmen, Gospel might even ce a bounty on him.


    It was so embarrassing. Igor never thought his first criminal record in Gospel would be for endangering public safety��a crime only fools wouldmit��instead of fraud, illegal fundraising, or even spheming a deity.


    It��s always like this; nothing good ever happens when he��s with Ashe. Who��s the real burden here?


    But Igor wouldn��t be lonely. Banjeet, who was attacking the Red Hats, would join him in topping the day��s hottest criminal chart.


    Igor sighed inwardly and let out a heart-wrenching tenor scream.


    Simultaneously, Banjeet burst onto the gaming floor, and his dual ice-curse guns spat out 62 miracle bullets in one second!


    Just as the Red Hats were about to fall victim to the criminals�� scheming, two Sanctuary sorcerers suddenly unfurled their virtual wings!


    Silver wings!


    Golden wings!


    And�� rainbow wings!


    The moment these virtual wings manifested, they shattered, transforming into two transparent barriers that protected all the Red Hat members!


    Pop! Pop! Pop! Pop!


    Mental Scream caused faint ripples on the outer surface of the transparent barriers, while the 62 bullets were suspended in the barrier��s exterior, shattering into 62 tiny ice flowers!


    Inside the barrier, the Red Hats remainedpletely unaffected!


    In the face of absolute strength, schemes and plots are no sturdier than bubbles.


    ��Very impressive tactical coordination,�� Leite remarked. ��But you underestimated the Sanctuary sorcerers.��

 Chapter 348: Patriarch of the Six Heraldry

    Chapter 348: Patriarch of the Six Heraldry


    Igor did not truly expect them to be able to surround and kill the Sanctuary sorcerers. He merely hoped that they could cause some casualties among the Red Hats, ideally leaving everyone severely injured except for the Sanctuary sorcerers, forcing those two to stay behind to care for their team members��in the Red Hat regtions, taking care of team members takes precedence over pursuing criminals. This way, they could escape smoothly.


    But now, far from causing any casualties, the Red Hats werepletely unscathed.


    Igor took out a hand mirror from his robe and used its reflection to see the transparent barrier that momentarily protected all the Red Hats. He murmured, ��What is that?��


    Ashe summoned the Gospel Book, ��What is that?��


    Gospel Book: ��(Consumes 5 Gospel points) Sanctuary.��


    Before Ashe could continue his inquiry, the Gospel Book, which had formed a strategic partnership with the Funeral Firm, proactively added:


    ��Sanctuary is a universal ability of three wings sorcerers, and over time has be synonymous with them. Sanctuary is not an ability that sorcerers automatically acquire upon advancing to three wings. Instead, because three wings sorcerers must master Sanctuary to explore the Distant Sky Domain, every three wings sorcerer is necessarily a Sanctuary sorcerer.��


    ��Sanctuary requires no spirits as a casting basis (though they can assist). The sorcerer only needs to diffuse a mixture of silver, gold, and Rainbow spellforce outside their body to generate their exclusive Sanctuary.��


    ��Typically, a Sanctuary is a spherical transparent force field centered on the sorcerer, with an adjustable radius. The discrete reassembly of virtual wings is the mostmon way to summon a Sanctuary.����Every second a Sanctuary exists, it consumes mixed spellforce. Moreover, depending on the spellcasting sect, each sorcerer��s Sanctuary is unique, but all Sanctuaries have two basic effects����


    ���� A Sanctuary is generated instantly, with its size freely controble.��


    ���� A Sanctuary can be used as a defensive barrier, directly using spellforce to resist all external attacks. Depending on the attributes of the Sanctuary, the spellforce consumption varies greatly, but there is almost no attack that cannot be defended against.��


    ��Based on these two effects, it is generally believed that exhausting all of a Sanctuary sorcerer��s spellforce is a necessary but not sufficient condition for killing a Sanctuary sorcerer.��


    Ashe showed Igor the two basic effects of the Sanctuary. Igor blinked.


    ��Key information missing. It turns out my n had no chance of sess from the start.��


    ��You didn��t know about the Sanctuary?�� Ashe was astonished. It was one thing for someone like him, who was ignorant of such things, but how could Igor not know?


    ��The Sanctuary I had heard about was a kind of Miracle Ritual Track set at a fixed location, where three wings sorcerers are nearly invincible within its range����


    ��Completely wrong.��


    ��Even a Con Artist can be deceived.�� Igor spread his hands. ��Tonight came too fast and too suddenly. I didn��t have time to check my information with the Gospel Book. Besides, I never intended to face a three wings sorcerer head-on. That��s not on my ��One Hundred Things to Do in This Life�� checklist.��


    ��Sorry about that.�� The Con Artist nced at the Cult Leader. ��We��re going to be captured again.��


    ��It��s alright,�� Ashe said. ��Worst case, we��ll just recreate Shattered Lake.��


    As they chatted, Cleos gentlynded on top of the game pod behind them, her light footsteps interrupting their pointless conversation. Her eyes were closed, and her righteous and kind guns were aimed at the red-named targets that would bring them glory. The Elf��s crimson lips uttered a cold warning: ��Move and you die.��


    To add weight to her warning, she half-pulled the trigger, the intricate metal mechanism making a teeth-chattering sound that would terrify any intelligent creature.


    ��Note that in the Red Hat regtions, as long as she gives a clear warning, shooting a suspect on the spot won��t lower her Red Hat ranking.�� Igor raised his hands in surrender, not forgetting to educate Ashe on Red Hatmon knowledge.


    ��It sounds like her warning wasn��t meant for me, but to exin to the Gospel.�� Ashe obediently raised his hands too. ��It��s like a student in ss saying they need to pee-not really talking to their dder.��


    On the other side, Banjeet also lowered his icy curse guns, though not much could be expected from him. After all, when you��re being aimed at by the heavy sniper of a Sanctuary sorcerer, it��s hard to muster any strength in your hands.


    Harvey managed to escape unscathed, but carrying an almost impossible-to-hide coffin made him no different from a Snail. Getting caught was only a matter of time.


    With the three of them captured, no external reinforcements, and no internal ns, Ashe felt they could only contribute to the public security of the Gospel Kingdom in an indelible way.


    Ding.


    At that moment, the elevator light turned on.


    The announcement speaker reced the uing visitors, extending a warm greeting to everyone.


    All the Red Hats turned to look at the elevator, along with the barrels of their guns.


    However, the moment the elevator door opened, everyone redirected their guns��because inside the elevator was a colleague.


    An Elf Red Hat.


    But as soon as Banjeet saw her, he visibly rxed. The sixty-something young butler wore a look of relief, as though he had encountered a guardian when being bullied.


    ��Do not point your guns at him.��


    This sentence instantly spanned half the gaming floor. Although Cleos had been prepared, her body shimmering with multiple Miracle glows��Defensive Miracles being far more cost-effective than Sanctuary unless absolutely necessary��she was still kicked away!


    Boom!


    Apanied by scattered Miracle fragments, Cleos was sent flying back into the Red Hat ranks. She immediately summoned the Gospel Book to search for enemy information, frowning as she said, ��Nona Senhaeser?��


    Ashe and Igor looked up to see a tall Elf Red Hat standing before them. She resembled Qenna slightly, but with less maturity and allure, and more innocence and cuteness. Her short hair was stylish, and she stood with one hand on her hip. To the two rescued individuals, she looked as heroic as a divine being descending to earth.


    ��Miss Nona?�� Igor exhaled. ��ording to the Pact between Annan and your sister����


    Wham!


    ��Nona��nded a heavy punch to Igor��s abdomen. As the Con Artist bent over like a shrimp, she followed up with an elbow to his back, knocking him to the ground with a loud thud.


    ��Next time you use my nsmen as hostages, remember these three broken ribs.�� She turned to Ashe. ��Do you want to call me Nona too?��


    Noticing the familiar cold arrogance in her eyes, Ashe suddenly recalled their elevator encounter a few days ago. ��You��re Qenna?��


    ��Is it Patriarch Qenna?�� Leite asked from the other side. ��ording to the records, Red Hat Vice-Captain Nona is just a two-wings sorcerer. No matter how deep her foundation, she simply doesn��t have the power to repel Cleos. In the entire Senhaeser family, only Patriarch Qenna possesses Sanctuary-levelbat strength.��


    ��Logically, with the white mist dissipating so rapidly, an ordinary Vamora should instantly lose all mobility. And at this moment, Patriarch Qenna, you should still be in the Dream. After the white mist dissipates, you wouldn��t even be able to return to reality immediately. However, given the years of operation by the Six Heraldry family, as the patriarch, you must have mastered some hidden secrets.��


    ��Do you ounders always speak in such a roundabout way? Are you sure you want to show off that pitiful eloquence in front of an Elf who��s several times your age?�� Qenna said coldly. ��The patriarch of a heraldry family controls the n��s resources andmands the trust of the entire n, naturally needing to be on standby at all times and never falling into dire straits.��


    Ashe couldn��t help but nod internally. For example, in the Senhaeser family, because the nsmen��s desires in reality were extremely low, Qenna had effectively achieved absolute dictatorship. But the downside was that when the nsmen faced sudden events, they had almost no subjective initiative and had to rely on the patriarch to steer the course.


    To put it another way, the Senhaeser family was like Big Sister Qenna leading arge group of kindergarten children.


    If the patriarch suddenly disappeared, Ashe doubted whether the Senhaeser family had the capability to elect another patriarch.


    ��Years ago, our ancestors considered various scenarios in which the patriarch might be killed. Sudden events like the white mist dissipating and the Dream being sealed were also taken into ount. To ensure the continuation of the family, which is of utmost priority, every patriarch of the Six Heraldry family has a ��backup body,���� Qenna exined. ��The backup body contains a soul split of the primary body, and there is more than one backup body. If a sudden situation urs, the backup bodies will activate one by one ording to priority. At least one will be able to temporarily lead the family.��


    ��Soul split?!�� Cleos eximed in shock. ��Wouldn��t that affect your future as a sorcerer? And this isn��t just any ordinary Miracle�� Wait, isn��t this reincarnation and soul takeover? Those backup bodies-��


    Cleos suddenly stopped short.


    ��It��s not as dark as you think. Usually, the backup body is at most influenced by my soul split��s emotions. Even if the soul split activates, the body will be returned afterward. As for my future,pared to ensuring the family��s continuation, it��s not worth mentioning at all,�� Qenna said calmly. ��The soul split is a simple matter. The Family Rebirth Dream isn��t just for entertainment.��


    ��Let��s end the chit-chat here.��


    Leite said, ��Patriarch Qenna, please hand over those two criminals. One is an imperial criminal under wanted notice 69-165, and the other just attempted to endanger public safety. As for your attack on Captain Cleos, I��m sure the Gospel will make a fair judgment-��


    ��Wrong.��


    ��What��s wrong?��


    ��Your stance is wrong,�� Qenna said coldly. ��The one who gets to say ��please�� now is me.��


    ��Please leave Vamora immediately. Any search actions must be officiallymunicated to the Vamora Red Hats, and we will do our best to cooperate with your reasonable actions. As for your unauthorized raid on Senhaeser��s private territory, I��m sure the Gospel will make a fair judgment. As for this white mist, I won��t hold you ountable. You small-time families simply don��t have the financial resources to pray for such a Miracle.��


    Cleos was stunned for a moment. ��Miss Qenna, although you possess a three wings realm, Nona�� only has two wings, right?��


    ��Even if you can use your sister��s body to exert Sanctuary-levelbat power, we have two Sanctuary sorcerers and six elite Red Hats,�� Leite said, raising his bolt-action sniper rifle, openly threatening her. ��Eight against one, a simple math problem, right? Are you really going to shield an imperial fugitive?��


    ��I��ll repeat, first, I��m merely asking you to apply for a cross-city search through proper channels; second����


    ��The enemy you��ll face is not a two-wings sorcerer.��


    A strange male voice came from outside the window: ��But six heraldry patriarchs representing eight million Vamora citizens.��


    The Red Hats turned to see five Uninvited Guests climbing through the broken window onto the 72nd floor. Tonight, the doors had lost their favor, and windows had be everyone��s preferred entry point.


    ��The white mist has dissipated.��


    ��All nsmen have fallen, and I had to activate the backup body.��


    ��Ounders brazenly invade our home.��


    ��And wreak havoc in Senhaeser.��


    ��Even attempting to capture our heraldry nsmen.��


    ��Vamora has never faced such humiliation since its establishment,�� Qenna said coldly. ��8764502 against 8, a simple math problem, right?��

 Chapter 349: Too Strange, Take Another Look

    Chapter 349: Too Strange, Take Another Look


    May 19th, 9:30 PM, 150 minutes until the 20th.


    The 72nd floor of the Senhaeser Building, usually a haven for introverted gamers in the virtual entertainment zone, was now crowded with arge group of social monsters.


    ��Edifel, Philippe, Bosch, Bierse, Suotian����


    Leite lifted his Red Hat, revealing his tousled red hair and his Miracle eye engraved with a spell formation. Hisughter carried a hint of madness: ��To think that I can meet with the six patriarchs of Vamora��s Six Heraldry at the same time, even a legendary sorcerer wouldn��t have such an honor, right?��


    ��Indeed,�� the trench coat man said. ��Thest time the six patriarchs met was thest time.��


    ��That must have been hundreds of years ago, right?�� the ponytail woman said. ��Howe nothing happened during the terms of the previous patriarchs, but now it��s my turn and such a big event urs?��


    ��Isn��t this a good thing?�� said thezy man with a fisherman��s hat, smiling. ��Bierse, you haven��t been a patriarch for long, have you? Someone like me, who��s been a patriarch for decades, eagerly anticipates these little episodes that can bring a change to the monotonous life.��


    ��It might just be pure noise,�� the man with sses said, taking out ab to straighten his bangs. ��Be careful not to harm Senhaeser��s family and resolve it quickly.��


    Banjeet looked at the men and women before him, temporarily suppressing his grievances against Igor, reced by the awe of witnessing a legend.The Six Heraldry Patriarchs!


    Leaders of Vamora, representatives of eight million people, inheritors of millennia-old families! Even in the entire Kingdom of Gospel, they are formidable figures, overlords of their domains!


    Among outsiders who have seen Vamora��s current state, the Six Heraldry Patriarchs are often regarded as second only to Empress Yisuo in power. Although their influence diminishes outside Vamora, Vamora is thergest producer of Beauty Houttuynia in the Kingdom of Gospel. In the Organization Ranking of various cities, Vamora consistently ranks near the top, and its annual city GDP has never fallen out of the top five!


    If the six families of Vamora were separated, each family��s GDP would far exceed that of ordinary Second-tier Cities, and they could evenpete with First-tier Cities! Because the resources of the heraldry families are allocated uniformly, the patriarch can freely mobilize the entire n��s production resources, effectively meaning ��one is all, and all is one��!


    Therefore, the patriarchs in front of Banjeet were not just patriarchs; they were practically the embodiment of their families, the human representation of their cities, carrying the weight of millions of nsmen in their every move. This is not just a metaphor��they truly have the ability to convert n resources into power��


    Whoosh��


    With the sound of pages flipping, five Gospel Books appeared before the patriarchs. For someone from a small household like Annan, the Gospel Book is a high-end, conservative information tform, but in front of the heraldry patriarchs, whose Gospel points are measured in millions, the Gospel Book��s openness is beyond ordinary people��s imagination.


    Sanctuary!


    Two Sanctuaries instantly unfolded to protect the Red Hat members. Although no actual attack was visible, anyone seeing the dense ripples of rain on the Sanctuary barrier would know that sorcerers are no match for the Gospel. Money talks indeed.


    Cleos��s face turned extremely grim, tears welling up at the corners of her eyes as she bit her lip in frustration: ��Leite, it looks like we��re going to fail this time����


    ��We cannot fail.��


    Leite also summoned his Gospel Book: ��I reiterate, our mission is solely to capture the Empire fugitive Ashe Heath. We have no intention of offending Vamora. Once we capture Ashe Heath, we will leave immediately. The white mist is not our doing. We will apologize to the Vamora Red Hats for any procedural vitions afterward�� No, I am deeply sorry. Esteemed patriarchs, I beg your forgiveness for our rashness.��


    He suddenly bowed deeply to the patriarchs, saying with his head lowered: ��ording to information revealed during the Weaving Festival, Ashe Heath is closely rted to the apocalypse of the next fifty years. We cannot allow him to remain free! I am willing to hand over all my gains from this matter to the Six Heraldry of Vamora. We can let go of everyone else, but Ashe Heath must be brought back for questioning!��


    Trench Coat Man: ��Do you think Vamora is a bathroom, where you cane and go as you please����


    ��Wait,�� the Man with sses said. ��Senhaeser, what��s your take on this? The Six Heraldry of Vamora stand together in both prosperity and adversity, but fighting a Sanctuary sorcerer and offending the Yisuo Royal Family for an outsider does not align with our family principles.��


    Ashe looked nervously at Qenna. She nced at him, her expression thoughtful.


    It��s over!


    Honestly, if the roles were reversed, Ashe would certainly not risk everything to protect an Empire fugitive, let alone one who seemed to be the culprit behind an impending apocalypse.


    Although Qenna had signed a Pact with Annan, theoretically obligating her to protect them or face a ban in the Virtual Realm, there wereplications. Firstly, standing before them was ��Nona,�� not ��Qenna.�� Ashe wasn��t sure if the Pact could recognize Qenna logging in from a different ount in another ce. Secondly, Qenna valued her family more than herself. If she truly believed she was endangering Senhaeser, the Pact would just be a sunk cost she had to bear.


    Threatening Qenna with the Pact? Absolutely not. Qenna was too proud to be threatened; it would only backfire. Ashe still remembered getting a bullet graze from Qenna for an offensivement.


    Persuading Qenna through Annan? iming he was very important to Annan to evoke Qenna��spassion? That didn��t seem like a viable option either��


    Ashe suddenly felt a tug on his pant leg. ncing down, he saw Igor sprawled on the ground, mouthing two words.


    ��Annan and Nona.��


    Ashe suddenly recalled that Annan often spoke about her close rtionship with her aunt, Nona. They hade to Vamora because Annan was confident in gaining Nona��s support, so she brought her entire family to seek refuge with her aunt.


    Unfortunately, Nona had been caught by Qenna, forcing them into cooperation with her. Otherwise, they would have smoothly infiltrated Vamora by now.


    ording to Annan, Nona was the kind of good aunt who would stand up to her sister for her niece, the only person in Senhaeser to whom Annan could confide, and the brightest light in the little girl��s childhood.


    However, the reality was that Nona had a soul split of her sister Qenna within her. When Qenna was trapped in the Virtual Realm, the first backup body activated was Nona. The rtionship between these sisters was much closer than that between Qenna and her daughter Annan.


    Ashe now also recognized that the two characters who appeared in the ��Senhaeser��s Dream�� event illustration were none other than Qenna and Nona! Qenna sat in a chair overlooking Vamora, while Nona whispered secrets to her from the side. They were clearly the ssic ��warrior sister and strategist sister�� duo!


    In other words, the ��good Aunt Nona�� in Annan��s perception was likely a role Qenna had arranged. ording to educational theories, having Qenna y the strict role and Nona the kind role was actually a very effective method of upbringing.


    Qenna might not necessarily love Annan, but she definitely cared a lot about her.


    Ashe remembered his encounter with Qenna in the elevator. He felt that, at her core, Qenna was probably a kind and approachable person.


    So, the correct strategy here should be��


    Ashe steeled himself and hugged Qenna!


    ��Patriarch Qenna, I am Annan��s fianc��. I will join Senhaeser in the future!�� Ashe buried his face in her chest, avoiding eye contact with the female patriarch. ��Please save me!��


    He wasn��t yet skilled at lying with a straight face. His expressions and demeanor would only give him away, so he had to rely on his bodynguage to strengthen his plea.


    Igor, lying on the ground, coughed up a mouthful of blood, his eyes full of shock. He didn��t dare to breathe too loudly, fearing he would disrupt Ashe��s performance.


    This was definitely a risky move. They still hadn��t fully deciphered theplex rtionship between this mother and daughter. If they got it wrong, Ashe��s actions would only provoke Qenna��s ire!


    The air waspletely silent. Everyone was waiting for the response of the Senhaeser patriarch.


    ��You say you are Annan��s fianc��?��


    Was she doubtful? Did she think he was lying? Did they get the code wrong?


    However, at this point, Ashe could only press on: ��Yes�� Do you disapprove?��


    ��No, I highly approve. In fact, this is wonderful news.��


    Ashe��s chin was lifted, forcing him to meet the gaze of the Senhaeser patriarch. Qenna��s golden eyes were full of amusement and expectation, reminding Ashe of a half-satiated fox eyeing its next prey.


    ��However, from now on, you should call me Sister Qenna.��


    Ashe blinked. ����Sister Qenna?��


    ��Good boy.�� Qenna noticed a drop of blood on Ashe��s left cheek and pointed to her own face. ��You have blood.��


    Ashe instinctively reached for his right cheek. Qenna shook her head and leaned in closer.


    Just when Ashe thought Qenna was going to wipe the blood off for him, he felt a slick tongue lick his face.


    A shiver ran down his spine, and his body nearly went limp in Qenna��s arms as she gently held him.


    Igor, watching their interaction clearly from the side, found this scene more disturbing than the pain of his broken ribs. It was shaking the Con Artist��s Heart Wall to its core.


    Ashe, what kind of password did you crack?


    Qenna��s attitude towards you doesn��t resemble how one would treat a daughter��s partner at all!


    Though I��m from the Blood Moon, I��ve seen plenty of family dramas here, and I��ve never seen anything like this!


    This is too bizarre. I need to take another look.

 Chapter 350: Each Has Their Own Valued Thing

    Chapter 350: Each Has Their Own Valued Thing


    ��Enough.��


    Qenna pushed the dazed Ashe away, lightly scraped her lips with her fingernail, and said loudly, ��I don��t know any Ashe Heath. I only know that I won��t allow you to take my nsman Ashe Senhaeser!��


    Leite turned to the other patriarchs, ��Do you all agree?��


    ��The Six Heraldry advance and retreat together, with aligned interests,�� the man with sses repeated. ��Senhaeser would never act against the Six Heraldry. Her will is the will of the eight million people of Vamora.��


    ��Alright,�� Leite said. ��Cleos, our Pact is nullified.��


    ��Huh?�� Cleos couldn��t help but open her eyes to nce at ��Deadshot Red Hat,�� only to see Leite taking off his Red Hat uniform. ��What do you mean?��


    ��It means, I don��t want my share of the profit anymore. As long as you capture Ashe Heath, you will be the number one on the National Red Hat Ranking.��


    ��But why don��t you����


    Before Cleos could finish her question, Leite had already answered with his actions. The Sanctuary sniper directly aimed at Ashe, who was hiding behind several rows of gaming pods, and multiple spirits appeared on the gun barrel.Ashe, in the line of sight, felt a chill seep into his body from his spine. Despite his Wild Instinct running at 120%, his body couldn��t move. The air seemed to turn into an oppressive wall, trapping him in Qenna��s embrace!


    Miracle: Target Killing Bullet!


    Fix the target into an immobile state and then shoot �� that��s the essence of Target Killing!


    Bang!


    Even though the Six Heraldry patriarchs reacted extremely quickly, the Sanctuary bullet still sted through two gaming pods, creatingrge holes in the Senhaeser nsmen inside. The bullet stopped before the third gaming pod, spinning within sixyers of invisible energy walls, releasing all its kic energy.


    If not for the timely prayer to the Gospel Book by the Six Heraldry patriarchs, everyone in the line of sight would have been doomed to be pierced through.


    ��Do you realize what you��ve done?��


    Regaining his ability to move, Ashe looked up and saw that Qenna��s eyes no longer held any trace of a smile. Holding the Gospel Book, she stepped forward. Her cold voice couldn��t hide her anger as she spoke word by word, ��You actually murdered ordinary Senhaeser nsmen right in front of us?��


    ��More will die next.�� Leite spoke calmly, showing no emotional fluctuation after killing: ��Ashe must be taken away. I will stop at nothing��though there��s really no cost anymore, since I��ve already lost my Red Hat qualification and will soon be a target for other Red Hats.��


    ��Cleos, and all of you, even if it��s for the Gospel ranking, fight with everything you��ve got.�� The Sanctuary sniper made a statement that no Red Hat should ever make: ��I��ll take care of the innocent people standing in your way.��


    When Ashe looked over, Leite immediately closed his eyes. Although he couldn��t make eye contact with this Sanctuary sorcerer, Ashe knew that his opponent��s pupils were filled with a resolute determination that left no room for retreat.


    Despite bing someone��s must-kill target for no reason, Ashe didn��t feel much grievance. After all, he had started out as a Cult Leader in prison and was long ustomed to the ups and downs of fate.


    Since the Weaving Festival, the ��Eternal Wanderer�� had been demonstrating his prowess, first getting notorious on the Art Ranking, then encountering the ruthless Empress��s heroic soul in the Virtual Realm. Compared to those, being targeted by a Sanctuary sorcerer was just dessert.


    Oddly enough, if a normal person faced such continuous malevolence, they would likely be cynical or at least swear to the heavens, ��Better I betray the world than let the world betray me.�� However, Ashe felt nothing. He simply helped Igor up and used a ��Joy Sword�� to heal his broken ribs.


    Igor coughed up some blood, ��Gently!��


    ��Do you want me to carry you like a princess?�� Ashe retorted irritably, ��Sister Qenna, we��ll leave now so we don��t get in your way! Banjeet, let��s go!��


    ��Don��t even think about it!��


    With a sharp cry from Leite, the Red Hats rapidly scattered to find cover and attack the native patriarchs, but they were all blocked by an invisible barrier.


    Cleos��s dual guns performed a requiem, and the bullets all hit the ground. In an instant, the ground beneath the patriarchs disintegrated into particles, causing these wealthy family heads to fall into the night sky along with the rubble!


    At the same time, Leite aimed at Ashe again, firing another Miracle bullet!


    Bang!


    The bullet stalled less than a meter from the muzzle, spinning furiously in the air as if it was throwing a tantrum in impotent rage.


    The five patriarchs did not fall. Despite the ground being gone, they could still walk as if on solid ground. This might be the most degrading use of Gospel points��they were stepping on the Gospel points, using money to pave a stairway to heaven.


    ��Do you have a grudge against him?�� Qenna asked calmly, holding the Gospel Book as she walked out.


    ��No, I actually know him quite well. His gaming skills aren��t great, but he��s a decent guy,�� Leite replied.


    ��Then why are you doing this?�� Qenna asked. ��You can��t even be a Red Hat anymore.��


    ��For the Gospel.��


    Ashe, Igor, and Banjeet reached the 71st floor and saw Harvey lying in a coffin with Alice about to close the lid.


    ��What are you doing�� never mind, I didn��t ask.��


    ��This is another one of my Miracles.�� Harvey, eager to exin his Necromancy Sect skills, said, ��It allows me to temporarily be a corpse, letting most of my Miracles work on myself, doubling mybat strength.��


    ��Why didn��t you use it before?�� Igor asked.


    ��It requires some preparation time and has a slight side effect, so I avoid using it if I can.��


    ��What side effect?��


    ��If used for too long, temporary corpse state might be permanent.��


    ��Alright.�� Banjeet exhaled deeply, trying to suppress his inner anxiety. ��We need to rescue the youngdy now.��


    Igor opened the Gospel Book chat group. ��Annan hasn��t said anything yet, which probably means she��s in serious trouble. Instead of����


    Click.


    The young butler pointed his dual ice spell-guns at the Con Artist, unlocking the safety.


    ����instead of wasting time, let��s find her immediately.�� Igor��s face was pale, likely from his broken ribs. ��Or it will be toote!��


    ��I agree.�� Banjeet holstered his guns.


    Harvey shrugged and climbed out of the coffin, ��Then I won��t turn into a corpse.��


    ��Wait.��


    Ashe raised his hand, sweeping his gaze over the group, and asked curiously:


    ��Where��s Lise?��


    At apartment 5603 on the 56th floor of the Senhaeser building, a knock echoed through the dark room.


    Knock, knock, knock.


    After three knocks, the automatic door suddenly lit up with a green light and slid into the wall with a swish.


    Tap.


    Steel boots stepped into the room, pressing down firmly on the floor, transferring weight to the toes, and then repeating with the other foot.


    The strides were uniform, the steps crisp.


    Tap. Tap. Tap.


    The owner of the steel boots stopped in the center of the room, not turning on the lights or saying a word.


    Inside the closet, the Substitute tightly covered Lise��s mouth, mping down on her like concrete, suppressing her trembles to the minimum.


    After an indeterminate amount of time, the sound of steel boots walking away and the automatic door closing was heard. The Substitute released Lise, and the white-haired girl copsed onto the clothes, breathing heavily, releasing all the tension that had built up inside her.


    As she finally caught her breath, Lise realized her legs were weak. ��Carry me to the mirror.��


    The Substitute carried Lise out of the closet to the vanity. The Little Witch turned on themp beside it, eager to discuss countermeasures with her sisters��


    The moment the light came on, Lise saw herself, the Substitute, and the ck Knight standing in the shadows, reflected in the mirror.

 Chapter 351: You Are Just a Spirit

    Chapter 351: You Are Just a Spirit


    ��Ah!��


    In the instant the chandelier fell, the Substitute yanked Lise back. The square chandelier in the hallway crashed to the ground in front of Lise, and shards of ss cut her little foot encased in white stockings.


    Ignoring the small injury, Lise anxiously looked at the Substitute. ��Are you okay?��


    Unlike her, the Substitute would immediately dissipate with even minor damage. If the current Lise was a helpless doll, then the Substitute was a true bubble.


    The Substitute didn��t respond, simply carrying Lise over the shattered ss, silently and loyally fleeing down the corridor.


    Behind them, the aloof ck Knight pursued their backs at a leisurely pace.


    d in dense scale armor, with an ebony helmet extending into a plume of raven feathers, the ck Knight��s dark silver steel boots made a muffled thud on the carpet, moving like a stroke of ink on parchment.


    It wasn��t particrly tall, nor was it especially burly even with the armor, but its silent oppression was enough to leave all prey gasping for breath. It wielded no weapon, holding only a ck-silver-covered book-the Gospel Book.


    As the Substitute and Lise passed by a window, the ck Knight lightly flicked its fingers, shattering the ss into countless fragments. If not for the Substitute��s timely dive forward with Lise, they would have been showered with ss shards.The 13th time.


    This was the 13th time Lise had encountered such an ��ident.��


    The moment Lise saw the ck Knight in her bedroom, the Substitute had immediately scooped her up and rushed out. Surprisingly, the ck Knight did not attack right away, even allowing them to run a few more steps, as if a doctor assessing a patient��s condition.


    When they had fled a certain distance, and Lise nearly thought the ck Knight had entered the wrong room, the ��idents�� began.


    Falling chandeliers, exploding fire extinguishers, shattering windows, crumbling ster, splintering doors�� The building, home to the core members of the Senhaeser family, suddenly turned into a danger zone, filled with startling surprises at every corner.


    Just now, when Lise tried to run towards the stairwell fire exit, she watched in disbelief as the solid, thick wall copsed into rubble, blocking the fire exit and turning it into the biggest fire hazard. Compared to the fire exit, the elevator shaft fared slightly better��it merely started smoking and prematurely retired.


    Clearly, the ck Knight did not intend to kill her, but neither did it intend to let her escape this floor. Lise had two choices: hide in another room and y hide-and-seek with the ck Knight, or jump out of the window.


    Not to mention, the ck Knight had just demonstrated its exceptional hide-and-seek skills. Lise had experienced what it was like to y hide-and-seek with someone holding the Gospel Book a few days ago��Ashe was terribly unfair, using Gospel points to cheat even in a game with children.


    Lise didn��t know what to do now. Although she wanted to discuss it with her sisters, they hadn��t appeared in the mirror when the ck Knight showed up; at that moment, the Little Witch understood what her sisters meant.


    If she guessed correctly, this ck Knight was after her sisters, and they couldn��t show up easily!


    Now it was her turn to protect her sisters!


    ��Why are you chasing me!?�� Lise climbed onto the Substitute��s shoulder and shouted at the ck Knight, ��I don��t even know you, and I haven��t done anything wrong, so why are you doing this?��


    ��My foot got cut, and it hurts, and I hurt my hand just now too, it hurts so much, boo����


    As she spoke, tears started rolling down Lise��s cheeks. She bit her lip in grievance, rubbing her eyes messily and smearing her face. Her hairband was pulled off while running, and her snow-white, pure hair fell onto her trembling shoulders. Her nose tingled��she felt more and more wronged the more she spoke, even shaking her fist at the ck Knight from afar in defiance.


    She had to act utterly innocent��this was indeed a task only she could aplish, something her sisters couldn��t do!


    In response to Lise��s questioning and crying, the ck Knight paused for a moment, then pulled out a pen from the spine of the Gospel Book and began writing in it.


    Suddenly, the speaker in the corner of the hallway emitted a t mechanical voice: ��The white mist has dissipated; you have not been affected.��


    Lise was stunned. She turned her head to look outside the window and realized that the white mist that had entangled Vamora for hundreds of years had quietly hidden away at some point. The yful night was trying to find it.


    Although they had been focused on researching the Gospel Incarnation these days, this was Vamora after all, and they inevitably gathered a lot of information about it.


    Lise didn��t bother to remember the various social changes caused by the Beauty Mist. She only remembered one thing-staying in Vamora for more than 6 hours required special treatment to leave the dense mist area; otherwise, it would trigger severe withdrawal symptoms. Note, this wasn��t about leaving Vamora, just leaving the dense mist area. For example, the developing intercity new district was a thin mist forbidden zone that Vamora citizens couldn��t enter.


    Conversely, even if you didn��t leave Vamora, as long as the white mist concentration decreased, you would still be choked by withdrawal symptoms!


    Lise thought it was terrifying when she read the information. Those ordinary people who fell into withdrawal symptoms almost all became dazed, their eyes hollow, consciousness dissipating, and some even losing control of their bowels. She had asked Ashe how to solve this problem, and Ashe��s solution was to prepare diapers. That was when Lise deeply realized the limitations of a single-parent family, and that a stepmother had to be arranged as soon as possible.


    At that moment, Lise suddenly remembered seeing a few maids lying on the ground in the corridor. She had thought they were beaten by the ck Knight, but there were no wounds on them, and they all had vacant eyes and drool, fitting the symptoms of withdrawal perfectly!


    No wonder Senhaeser was so quiet. Perhaps everyone besides her had already lost control, hopefully with diapers prepared.


    ��So, why was she unaffected?


    ��So what!�� The Little Witch stiffened her neck and said, ��Can��t I be healthy and not affected? Is it wrong to be healthy!? You aren��t affected either!��


    The ck Knight continued to write in the Gospel Book, using the corridor��s speaker to speak: ��You said you were hurt and in pain just now, is that true?��


    ��Of course, it��s true!�� Lise angrily waved her fist. ��My hand is still bleeding!��


    Boom!


    The ck Knight suddenly pointed from a distance, and the ceiling above Lise and the Substitute cracked and copsed instantly. Stones and dust fell together, threatening to crush Lise and shatter the Substitute!


    ��Get down!��


    The Substitute couldn��t speak; it only followed orders.


    It immediately curled up into a ball on the ground. Countless debris ttered onto the floor around it, but not a single stone touched it.


    However, it wasn��t entirely unscathed.


    Drops of blood fell onto its face, mingling with the dust to form a dirty, sticky mixture. It turned its head upward to see a small, delicate figure.


    Lise had spread her arms to shield the Substitute. A stonerger than her had struck her back. Her head seemed to have been injured, as red droplets slid down by gravity, carving a path through the dusty white hair, soaking her delicate brows, and falling onto the Substitute��s face like dewdrops. Her knees were slightly bent, her white stockings torn and tattered, with rust-colored stains spreading from the wounds, resembling roses blooming in the snow.


    This fragile and seemingly breakable crystal child now stood like an unyielding fortress, bearing all the damage alone to protect a bubble.


    ��Take me away,�� she said.


    The Substitute immediately hugged Lise and fled, narrowly avoiding the secondary copse of debris. Lise clung tightly to the Substitute, ring at the ck Knight with hatred.


    ��You actually don��t feel any pain. With your current injuries, you should have passed out.��


    Hatred overwhelmed rational thought at that moment. Lise screamed, ��Die, die, die! I��m not afraid of you! I won��t pass out! Waaa, I��ll call Dad toe and kill you!��


    The ck Knight ignored Lise, continuing to speak methodically, ��Originally, I was just suspicious, but now I��m almost certain. Your so-called pain is just a sensation you��ve imagined. Hormones and neurons can��t truly affect you.��


    ��Why aren��t you affected by the white mist? Because you can��t imagine the effects of withdrawal symptoms.��


    ��Why don��t you pass out from severe injuries? Because you don��t want to.��


    ��As long as you don��t care or think about it, nothing exists.��


    For some reason, listening to the ck Knight��s meticulous analysis of her situation, an indescribable panic surged within Lise. She resisted the urge to take out her hand mirror, gripping the Substitute��s neck so tightly that her nails nearly pierced its skin, as if fearing that the ck Knight��s next words would strip her of everything.


    ��What�� exactly are you trying to say?!��


    Crash!


    Another window shattered nearby, and the Substitute hugged Lise, dodging the shower of ss shards.


    In the chaotic rain curtain of fragments, Lise saw the ck Knight write something in the Gospel Book. The speaker above echoed a cold deration:


    ��You are not the master of this body, so this body cannot affect you.��


    ��You are not even human.��


    ��You are merely a spirit.��

 Chapter 352: Deceived!

    Chapter 352: Deceived!


    Let the Celestial Bull step back to a few days ago.


    In Annan��s penthouse library, after Igor and ��Lise��pleted the Pact, Igor made an unreasonable request.


    ��You want to study ��us��?��


    ��Lise�� shook her head and waved her hand, giving the Con Artist a double rejection: ��Absolutely not.��


    ��Even if you say no, I will still keep observing you,�� Igor threatened. ��I��m not trying to do anything excessive, I just want you to answer some questions and fill out some surveys. Think about it, while you��re smart and cautious, Lise is an adorable child who wears her thoughts on her sleeve. Instead of tricking a child into giving me colorful candy, wouldn��t it be better if you personally made a psychological ice cream that satisfies a mental health professional?��


    ��Lise�� continued to shake her head: ��Lise isn��t as easy to read as you think. She only acts like a fool in front of fools, and bes smart in front of smart people�� But why are you so interested in us? Didn��t you just say you��ve seen many cases of multiple personality disorder?��


    ��I have seen many cases of multiple personality disorder,�� Igor said, ��but none as special as you�� as you all.��


    ��Generally, multiple personality disorder manifests in two forms: The first is one soul with multiple personalities, where different personalities coexist within the same soul. These personalities can persist long-term but have difficultymunicating with each other. In severe cases, their memories can��t coexist either, with one personality having to ��sleep�� for another to awaken. Such patients are like dice, always showing only one face.��


    ��The second form is multiple souls with multiple personalities, which means the soul itself splits, leading to multiple personalities. This is an extremely dangerous condition, as the personalities canmunicate and even attack each other within the mind, making long-term coexistence nearly impossible. The souls tend to devour each other, resulting in mutual personality destruction. However, it is said that some mental Miracles can transfer souls out, leading to what is called ��soul split�� or ��soul division.������And your case, not only have I never seen it, I��ve never even heard of it,�� the talented yet unscrupulous mental doctor marveled. ��Multiple souls in one body, able tomunicate and coexist harmoniously, even havingmon goals and clear divisions ofbor, it��s practically the ideal organizational form.��


    ��For others, multiple personality is an uncontroble disorder, but for you, it��s a controble Miracle.��


    ��So I��m very curious,�� Igor scrutinized ��Lise,�� ��in what manner do your personalities coexist within the soul?��


    On the 72nd floor of Senhaeser, after Leitepletely lifted his restrictions, the battle instantly reached a fever pitch. Even though everyone tried to conserve their strength, much of the 72nd floor was destroyed, bullet holes were everywhere, and the ceiling and floor were nearly sted through.


    ��Speaking of which, I have a question for the patriarchs,�� Leite said while ducking into Cleos�� Sanctuary to reload his magazine, trying to disrupt the battle with conversation. ��I understand that you patriarchs have ��backup bodies,�� but the white mist affects all Vamora people. The ��backup bodies�� would also experience withdrawal symptoms and be unable to move. How do you control the ��backup bodies��?��


    ��It��s simple, we don��t directly connect to the ��backup bodies,���� the trench coat man loudly replied. ��It��s like ying a virtual game; even though we yers can fully control the game characters, we aren��t possessing the characters. Instead, we control them through virtual equipment.��


    ��So even if the game characters are blinded, petrified, heavily injured, or weakened, it��s the characters that suffer, and the yers can still continue to control them.��


    ��Enough,�� the man with sses said. ��Don��t be so eager to reveal secrets to the enemy we��re fighting.��


    ��I still don��t understand,�� Leite asked in confusion. ��In games, there��s virtual equipment. What is the medium you use to connect to the ��backup bodies��?��


    The trench coat man seemed unable to resist the opportunity to show off his knowledge. ����The ��backup bodies�� own souls, of course.��


    Leite was stunned. ��Aren��t you controlling them using a soul split?��


    ��How is that possible? Each body can only house one soul. For us to keep a soul split in the ��backup body�� as ast resort, we must����


    ��That��s enough, Bosch!�� the Man with sses interrupted sharply.


    However, Leite had already caught the underlying meaning of their words.


    As a Sanctuary sorcerer, even without deep knowledge of the Mental Sect, his broad understanding allowed him to glimpse the secrets of the Six Heraldry family.


    ��The only entity that can hide within a sorcerer��s soul is one and only one kind.��


    Leite looked around: ��You all are spirits.��


    In the hallway on the 56th floor, Lise, clutching her Substitute��s neck, was bewildered.


    Am I a spirit?


    How could I be a spirit?


    I am the Little Witch, the most beloved sister of my siblings, Dad��s cutest daughter, I am��


    ��After Princess Lise Deya left, we made countless spections about the princess��s psychological state, but they were all denied by Her Majesty the Empress. The princess has grown up healthily under Her Majesty��s watchful eye, with no thoughts of running away, nor would she enter the Virtual Realm on her own.��


    ��Therefore, the one who left the tower wasn��t the princess, or rather, the princess was coerced, deceived, or even harmed.��


    ��So who entered the Virtual Realm, who met the Bronze Dragon, who tried every means to escape Nabistin?��


    The ck Knight wrote: ��It could only be a spirit born from the princess��s memories.��


    ��You, or you all, usurped the princess��s soul, controlled her body, and like despicable thieves, stole the Yisuo Royal Family��s most precious treasure, hastily escaping the pce.��


    ��I can��t possibly be a spirit!�� Lise pulled at her hair. ��Don��t try to fool me just because I didn��t go to school. Spirits are born from knowledge����


    ��Triggered by the Virtual Realm, born from knowledge,�� the ck Knight wrote. ��But the carriers of knowledge are many: memory, emotion, will, even the soul�� Each self-summoned spirit contains much information about the sorcerer. Moreover, when a sorcerer summons a spirit, it is often with intense desire��wanting fists to be stronger, swords to be sharper, guns to shoot faster and more urately.��


    ��The father of a spirit is knowledge, but its mother is desire. Although it��s difficult to achieve, if a sorcerer offers their soul willingly during the summoning of a spirit,bined with a strong desire, the spirit can indeed mutate into a life form that canmunicate with the sorcerer.��


    ��You are a spirit, merely endowed with a personality, hiding within the princess��s soul to observe this world, even capable of manipting the princess��s soul to disguise yourself as a human. But you have no past, no future, no life, no death.��


    Lise opened her mouth to retort, but no sound came out.


    Suddenly, she recalled a conversation with her sisters.


    ��White Queen, how did Ie into this world?��


    ��You were summoned by Deya.��


    ��Summoned?��


    ��Yes, we needed a super cute Little Witch sister, so you appeared.��


    ��What? Hehe, I��m not that cute~��


    Exactly!


    That��s right!


    Lise suddenly said with confidence, ��So what if I am? I��m loved by my sisters, loved by Dad, I am the cutest-!��


    ��You admitted it.��


    The ck Knight tapped the Gospel Book with his pen: ��Finally found you, Princess Lise Deya. I thought I had really mistaken someone else.��


    A curse word that no child should say popped into Lise��s mind.


    Damn it!


    It was lying to me the whole time! It wasn��t even sure if I was Lise Deya! Damn it, damn it, damn it, how can anyone be more shameless than Dad!


    ��Because there was no trace of the princess, Her Majesty the Empress believed the princess had used the Bronze Dragon��s blessing to erase all her past. But the princess is someone blessed by the Gospel, and those around you would also attract the attention of the Omniscient Weaver. So our primary investigation targets were the Echoers at the Weaving Festival.��


    The ck Knight continued: ��The secret guard was dispatched across the country to search, and my targets were those around Ashe Heath. In this form, it��s indeed hard to associate you with the original. But after the white mist cleared, you were one of the sevenpletely unaffected people. I know the reasons for the other six, but you were the special one.��


    ��Princess, stop letting the spirit use your body recklessly. It��s time for you to return. Nabistin needs you, the Yisuo Royal Family needs you, and the Gospel Kingdom needs you.��


    As the ck Knight closed the Gospel Book, the ceiling of the hallway in front of Lise and her Substitute began to copse. It didn��t just copse oneyer but multipleyers, until rubble and debrispletely blocked the entire corridor.


    The Substitute attempted to open the nearby room door, but with a mere gesture from the ck Knight, the automatic door elerated its aging process to the point ofplete lock failure. This time, the ck Knight didn��t use the Gospel Book, so Lise understood-the ck Knight��s attack method likely involved elerating time in a specific area, probably only affecting inanimate objects.


    The ck Knight wasn��t directly using the Gospel Book to create idents, but rather asking it how much time to elerate, the range of effect, and when to deploy it to create an ��injured but not dead�� ident for Lise.


    Lise finally understood everything.


    Everything it had done was merely to force out my sisters. When it realized I wouldn��t admit anything, it deliberately said those things to deceive me, provoke me, and ambush me!

 Chapter 353: Scarlet Dead Apostles

    Chapter 353: Scarlet Dead Apostles


    There was no way out, and the ck Knight was closing in step by step.


    Lise waspletely out of options. She hurriedly took out the small mirror from her pocket, disregarding the risk of being discovered by the ck Knight, and initiated a high-speed mental exchange with her sisters. ��I��m sorry, I messed up.��


    ��It��s okay,�� the White Queen reassured her. ��The enemy has already assumed you are Lise Deya. Confirming your identity is just a matter of time. You��ve done well, Lise.��


    Lise asked, ��But what do we do now? I��m about to be captured.��


    There was a moment of silence in the mirror before the White Queen suddenly asked, ��Lise, do you resent us for keeping secrets?��


    Lise was puzzled. ��What do you mean?��


    Deya rified, ��Do you resent us for hiding the fact that you are a spirit?��


    Lise tilted her head. ��A little bit, but no matter what I am, I��m still your favorite little sister, right?��


    The White Queen responded, ��Of course, without a doubt-as long as you don��t make me angry.��Scarlet Dead Apostles added, ��And as long as we are here, Lise, you don��t need to know you are a spirit.��


    Lise was a perceptive child.


    ��Scarlet, what do you mean by that? Are you saying you might not be here someday?��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles didn��t answer Lise��s question. ��Lise, listen to the White Queen more in the future. ck Butler, don��t keep things to yourself. White Queen, don��t try to handle everything alone. Trust others more. Deya, you must stay true to yourself.��


    Lise was anxious. ��Scarlet, what are you talking about?!��


    The usually silent ck Butler suddenly spoke, ��Let me handle it. Scarlet Dead Apostles, you are more useful than I am.��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles replied, ��No, ck Butler, you are more useful. I can��t help in the Virtual Realm anymore. I was born to fight. Now that Deya can fight on her own and has trustworthy allies, my continued existence would only be a burden to her.��


    Deya protested, ��That��s impossible! Scarlet, you are my sister, not somebat substitute, and you would never be a burden to me!��


    Lise was on the verge of crushing the mirror. ��What are you all talking about?! I don��t understand any of this!��


    ��The Trial of the Bronze Dragon erased our past in reality and sealed our spellforce,�� the White Queen said in a low voice. ��That��s why Annan never suspected us. But without spellforce, we can��t activate our spirit forms, so we have no power to resist in reality and must rely on others for protection.��


    ��But there is always an exception��if a spirit activates voluntarily, it doesn��t require spellforce.��


    Lise had a vague understanding but still hoped for the best. ��So Scarlet is going to beat up this bad guy ande back?��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles replied, ��I won��t being back.��


    ��Why not!?��


    ��Lise, do you know what kind of spirits we are?��


    ��Sister spirit, little sister spirit, cute spirit?��


    ��No, we are all derivative spirits of the Mask spirit,�� Scarlet Dead Apostles exined. ��I am the Scarlet Dead Apostles Mask, she is the White Queen Mask, and you are the Little Witch Mask.��


    ��When used on ourselves, we can switch freely and use them permanently. But if we use them on someone else, it means I have to enter the other person��s soul to put the Scarlet Dead Apostles Mask on them.��


    Lise asked, ��So�� Scarlet, are you going to take over this bad guy��s body!?��


    ��I can��t,�� Scarlet Dead Apostles shook her head. ��A mask is still just a mask.��


    ��Then what are you going to do?��


    ��It��s simple. When it takes off the mask, it will also take off its face. I will actively merge into and disrupt its soul, confuse its memory, and shatter its worldview. By the time itpletely removes me, it might not even remember who it is.��


    A chill ran through Lise��s heart. ��And what about you, Scarlet?��


    ��The only way to forcibly remove a mask is to destroy the spirit,�� Scarlet Dead Apostles said.


    ��No!�� Lise immediately objected. ��I don��t want you to die, Scarlet. We�� we have Dad, Annan, Aunt Bukin, Uncle Harvey, and Sister Qenna. They will save us. You don��t need to die!��


    ��The white mist has dispersed for so long, and we have been running for so long,�� ck Butler suddenly said. ��Who hase to save us?��


    The image in the mirror froze.


    ��They might save Annan, Banjeet, Ashe, Igor, and even Harvey, but no one will save us. Annan and Banjeet are master and servant, Ashe and the others arepanions, but we are outsiders that no one cares about.��


    ��In ordinary times, it might not matter, but in moments of danger, the weight of life bes clear,�� ck Butler said. ��Moreover, they can��t save us. The ck Knight just said it��it is a secret guard. Deya, do you remember that name?��


    Deya replied, ��I heard it once in a bedtime story. The secret guards are the royal des, representing the Yisuo Royal Family. They can freely use the royal family��s Gospel points and have the authority to invoke Forbid�� secret guards can even be considered legendary sorcerers.��


    ck Butler continued, ��If I��m not mistaken, the white mist in Vamora was dispersed by it using points. It wasn��t even serious just now, merely ying a game of chase with Lise. Even if someone came to rescue us, who could stand against a legendary sorcerer? Who would dare offend a secret guard of the Yisuo Royal Family?��


    Lise eximed, ��So we just let Scarlet go to her death? I don��t want that!��


    ��So�� we should go back.��


    ck Butler spoke softly, ��If we surrender, Scarlet won��t have to sacrifice herself. If we go back, we won��t have to keep running. White Queen, Scarlet, Lise, Deya���� By the end, there was a note of pleading in her voice.


    Deya didn��t respond.


    ��We absolutely can��t go back.��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles firmly rejected ck Butler��s suggestion.


    ��The witch needs Lise Deya, not Scarlet Dead Apostles, not ck Butler, not White Queen, not Secret Princess, and certainly not Little Witch. Even if we obediently return to the tower, the witch will still cleanse us all. She won��t allow us to continue existing and obstruct the ��true Lise Deya�� from achieving Armored Sanctification. Everyone will die, no exceptions.��


    ��One death versus five deaths��it��s simple math even I can do, ck Butler.��


    ��But what if it��s not just one death!�� ck Butler roared. ��This time we encounter a secret guard and Scarlet has to sacrifice herself. What about the second time we encounter a secret guard? Will it be me? Then the third time? The fourth time? Will it only end when Deya is the only one left?��


    White Queen interjected, ��ck����


    ��Three months remain until the Weaving Festival ends. If we behave well, the witch might let us live for those three months,�� ck Butler pleaded. ��Deya, do you really want to watch everyone die one by one? Can��t you let us live peacefully for these three months? Do you know what Scarlet likes to eat? Do you know where Scarlet wants to go? Do you know that Scarlet actually loves listening to music?��


    Deya didn��t respond.


    ��Don��t embarrass yourself, ck Butler,�� Scarlet Dead Apostles said. ��Don��t make it sound like I��m afraid of death. I am Scarlet Dead Apostles��that��s the name I chose for myself.��


    ��Lise, without other spirits to assist, I can only activate through contact. Just touch the secret guard with your hand.��


    Lise almost wanted to hide her hands. ��No!��


    ��Don��t be so stubborn. You��re an adult now.��


    ��I��m not an adult! I��m Little Witch! And how is this different from killing Scarlet with my own hands? Absolutely not!��


    ��Deya!�� ck Butler��s scream nearly shattered the mirror, but then it turned into a tearful plea. ��I��m begging you����


    White Queen said, ��ck Butler, don��t do this. The person suffering the most here isn��t you, it��s Deya.��


    Deya still didn��t respond.


    Even the swiftest mental exchange takes time, and the ck Knight had already reached the end. The Substitute spread its arms to shield Lise, as if trying to repay her for saving its life moments ago.


    ��No����


    Pop.


    With a light wave of the ck Knight��s hand, the bubble burst. Lise looked up, forced to face this cruel nightmare up close.


    ��Lise, look at me.��


    Lise instinctively nced at the mirror, and then her Mask was removed.


    ck Butler roared, ��Deya!��


    White Queen cried, ��Deya����


    Little Witch screamed, ��Deya!��


    Their shouts came to an abrupt halt.


    Drip, drip.


    Her tear ducts worked harder than ever to cleanse her eyes, her teeth bit deep into her lips, drawing blood. Large teardrops mixed with thick blood droplets fell onto the mirror, forming a newyer that obscured the faces of her sisters, reflecting only a girl sobbing uncontrobly.


    ��Deya, you are the strongest among us. From now on, you��ll have to bear the burden.��


    Deya hastily wiped away her tears and looked up to see the ck Knight��s outstretched hand. Fighting the nausea rising in her stomach, she raised her hand to reach out��


    Buzz!��


    Suddenly, a sharp screech came from the ceiling, jolting Deya��s mind into a daze. The unprepared ck Knight also paused for a moment.


    At that instant, an inverted sword body barrier emerged from the ceiling above the ck Knight, and the section of the ceiling was cut out and began to plummet downward!


    Crash!


    Deya stared in shock as the ck Knight was directly hit by the falling ceiling piece,plete with the sword body barrier. In the midst of the swirling dust and debris, along with the ceiling, descended a figure in a dark red trench coat��a person with the presence of a high-quality father figure.


    ��Hmm?��


    Ashe saw Deya��s small hand reaching out towards him and instinctively reached out to grasp it.

 Chapter 354: Lise is Different from Annan

    Chapter 354: Lise is Different from Annan


    ��Do you really think you��re her dad?��


    While running down the stairs, Igor suddenly asked Ashe, who was just ahead of him.


    They had just left the perilous gaming floor when Ashe and Banjeet erupted into a brief but fierce argument. Annan was on the 86th floor and Lise on the 56th. ording to the character activity map disyed by the Gospel Book, Annan was fighting several people, while Lise was being pursued by one person. Therefore, Banjeet wanted everyone to first go support Annan.


    Igor and Harvey had no objections, but Ashe insisted on going down to find Lise.


    Given the urgency, they quickly took action after stating their opinions. Banjeet took the elevator up, Ashe ran down the stairs, and Igor signaled to Harvey. Thus, the necromancer and the butler went to curry favor with the boss, while the Con Artist apanied the year��s worst employee to pick up the kid.


    Without a doubt, Ashe��s ��mixing business with personal matters�� would surely anger both Banjeet and Annan.


    After all, Lise��s situation seemed less dangerous, whereas Annan was barely holding on. Ashe, putting the boss after his ��cheap daughter��, was unreasonable in every sense. Did he really think the Firm was his family?


    Igor didn��t understand either. He knew that although Ashe had the intelligence of an Ogre and the cunning of a Goblin, his brain would often wander off on its own. However, Ashe wasn��t the kind of societal degenerate who couldn��t differentiate between priorities.


    Judging by the situation, they should have all gone to rescue Annan first and then find Lise. Yet Ashe insisted on splitting up.If things went south, Ashe would bear full responsibility.


    Igor should have gone with Banjeet to rescue Annan, but that would have made it seem like they were isting Ashe. Even if it was just to show some solidarity as outsiders, Igor had to apany Ashe down this path. Though it was inevitable that Annan would hold a grudge against him in the future, having Ashe, the perennial scapegoat, around made Igor less worried.


    ��No way,�� Ashe��s voice interjected between the rapid footsteps. ��I��m an unmarried guy, far from being old enough to be anyone��s dad.��


    ��Then why do you care so much about Lise that you can��t wait a few minutes? If we all went to save Annan together, we could quickly deal with those enemies and then turn around to rescue Lise. Isn��t that a more reasonable n?��


    ��You��re right. Why didn��t I think of that? My bad.��


    ��Are you ying dumb in front of me?�� Igor reached out and pped Ashe on the head. ��Even in a rush, how could you not figure that out?��


    ��I really didn��t think that much just now����


    ��If you don��t want to exin, then forget it.��


    As they turned a corner on the staircase, Ashe said helplessly, ��Lise is different from Annan.��


    ��Ah, I can only hope you��re not talking about their body differences,�� Igor mocked. ��They are different in so many ways. For example, their names are different.��


    ��Putting aside theirbat abilities, the most crucial difference,�� Ashe said, ��is their mindset.��


    ��Their mindset?��


    Igor was slightly taken aback, but as a mental sorcerer, he instantly grasped Ashe��s implication.


    ��No matter how critical the situation, Annan can remain calm,�� Ashe said. ��She knows that many people care about her��her mother Qenna, her butler Banjeet, and herpanions like us. She has plenty of reasons to hold on. She believes time is on her side, convinced that many people are rushing to save her. She holds onto hope.��


    ��But Lise is different. She����


    Ashe paused, seemingly racking his brain for a suitable example, finally settling on the worst one he could think of: ��She��s a lot like you.��


    ��She is not.��


    ��She doesn��t know if anyone wille to rescue her, or if she even matters. Time is on Annan��s side because with every passing second, she believes help will arrive any moment. Time is not on Lise��s side because with each passing second, she feels abandoned.��


    ��People act spoiled when they feel they are favored; they act mature when they suspect they might be abandoned. Igor, Lise has always been a smart and sensible child.�� Ashe smiled. ��Even though I��ve never met her, I feel she��s very much like you when you were a kid.��


    ��She is not.��


    ��So even if it��s just me, I have to go find her first.�� Ashe jumped off the steps,nding heavily on the concrete floor. ��Maybe my arrival won��t make a difference, and I might even get caught. But at least I can show her through my actions��no matter what, always hold onto hope.��


    ��So, she��s not like me,�� Igor kept pace with Ashe. ��I haven��t fallen so low that I need someone else to give me hope.��


    ��Be a little more tolerant with kids, Aunt Bukin.��


    ��But you still haven��t answered my question. You exined why you need to save her, but not why you care so much about her.��


    ��Did you forget? I have a Pact with her. I have to protect her.��


    ��Is it just because of the Pact?��


    ��And there��s one other insignificant reason����


    Ashe grabbed ��Lise��s�� hand, hoisting her onto his shoulder and giving her a firm smack on the bottom. ��Lise�� couldn��t help but yelp.


    ��See, you always get into trouble, making mee to your rescue every time.�� Ashe pretended to be angry,ughing as he spoke. ��Let��s see if you dare to disobey next time!��


    Ashe felt that Lise had been showing him less respect recently. She used to always call him Dad, buttely, she had been mixing ��Ashe�� and ��Dad��, even daring to tease him in front of Harvey. It��s one thing to do it privately, but how could she disrespect him in front of others?


    If this continued, Lise might evolve into the kind of brat who says, ��Hey, you, give me some money.�� This was the perfect opportunity to establish some adult authority. For Lise��s healthy development, it was time to take a firm stand!


    Upstairs, Igor wore a peculiar expression. He never expected that Ashe��s main reason for rescuing Lise first was to show off in front of the little girl.


    This guy has the nerve to say I��m like Lise. I think he��s the one who��s like Lise��two immature kids.


    Deya covered her flushed face, wishing she could revert to her original form and beat this guy up, but she couldn��t. She had never been spanked by anyone, not even a witch, and now Ashe dared to smack her loudly!


    She should have immediately returned the body to the Little Witch when she saw Ashe!


    After all, it��s one thing for the Little Witch to get spanked, but she was the Secret Princess. How could she face the White Queen and the others in the future?


    Wait a minute�� Deya��s face changed, and she quickly pped Ashe on the back. ��Run!��


    Boom!


    The ceiling above them suddenly copsed. Ashe immediately grabbed Deya and moved out of the way, narrowly avoiding the falling steel and concrete.


    ��Still not dead?�� Ashe looked at the pile of rubble with a grim expression.


    After discovering that the stairway on the 56th floor was blocked, Ashe and Igor had moved up to the 57th floor. Using the Gospel Book, they determined that Lise��s pursuers were directly below them and quickly devised a n. Igor would unleash a Mental Scream to create an opening, and Ashe would drop down to ambush the enemies.


    For this attack, Ashe chose not Sword Art, not Single-minded Devotion, but his most proficient miracle��the sword body barrier!


    His sword body barrier was a Defensive Miracle thatbined both offense and defense. It could repel ranged attacks, but if anyone came into close contact with it, their attacks would be neutralized, and they would be cut by the barrier��s sharp sword energy.


    The sword energy of the sword body barrier originated from the Earth Sword and was shaped by the Wind Wall. Since the Earth Sword was connected to the ground, its sword energy was virtually indestructible��unless you could shatter the ground, you couldn��t prate the sword body barrier. Unless someone could instantly break through it, anyone who tried to sh with it would find themselves shattered, not the barrier.


    In virtual realmbat, almost no virtual realm creature would directly confront the sword body barrier. They would either retreat or switch to long-range attacks.


    Even virtual realm creatures knew to avoid its sharp edges, so sorcerers wouldn��t even consider it.


    Thus, the offensive capabilities of the sword body barrier had always beenckluster, earning it the nickname ��the sword of kindness,�� with a record of 0 kills, 10 deaths, and 65 assists��having been broken at least 10 times but protecting teammates 65 times.


    But Ashe keenly realized that the current terrain was the perfect opportunity for the sword body barrier to shine.


    The biggest drawbacks of the sword body barrier were twofold: it had to be grounded, and it couldn��t move. That��s why it was called a ��barrier����it could only take hits passively and couldn��t attack proactively.


    Yes, the sword body barrier couldn��t move, but what if you moved the ground instead?


    The sword body barrier had to rely on the ground, but the ceiling was the ground too!


    So Ashe nted his sword, causing the sword body barrier to form on the ceiling directly beneath him. Then, using the Heart Sword to cut through the floor and coordinating with Igor��s Mental Scream, Ashe finally executed his n perfectly��


    Miracle: Air Raid Sword Body Barrier!


    ��The damage should be sufficient, and with the enemy stunned by the Mental Scream, they shouldn��t have had time to react���� Ashe set Deya down, his eyes gleaming. ��Could it be����


    Igor immediately opened the Gospel Book: ��Reveal all the information you can about that person!��


    Gospel Book: ��(Consuming 30 Gospel Points) The opponent��s name is hidden.��


    ��Identity: Secret Guard of Yisuo, representing the Yisuo Royal Family, with administrative privileges second only to the royal family, authorized to oversee all imperial units.��


    ��Professional Privilege: Secret Gaze: Secret Guards have intelligence privileges second only to the royal family, allowing them to ess any information without cost.��


    ��Professional Privilege: Weave: Secret Guards have Miracle privileges second only to the royal family, allowing them to use the royal family��s Gospel Points to request Miracles or even Divine Interventions from the Omniscient Weaver, and to weave fate at will.��


    ��Professional Privilege: Darkest Night: The Secret Guard��s armor is blessed with ��Darkest Night,�� automatically consuming Gospel Points to resist all damage.��


    ��Professional Privilege: Requiem Prayer: The Secret Guard��s soul is blessed with ��Requiem Prayer,�� automatically consuming Gospel Points to heal all mental injuries.��


    There was a long list of additional privileges, but Igor didn��t bother reading further. He urgently shouted, ��Ashe, don��t����

 Chapter 355: The Black Witch and the Black Knight

    Chapter 355: The ck Witch and the ck Knight


    Boom!


    The 58th floor instantly copsed into rubble, drowning out Igor��s voice on the 57th floor in the roar of steel and stone.


    Though chaos reigned above, Ashe��s attention was riveted to the shifting pile of debris.


    Suddenly, his sleeve was tugged. He looked down to see his daughter, her eyes brimming with tears.


    ��Don��t, don��t go,�� Deya stammered, her voice trembling. ��You can��t win����


    ��All you need to say now is, ��Thank you, Brother Ashe,���� Ashe said, wiping away her tears, though he only ended up smudging her face more, making her look like a little kitten. ��And besides, we can��t escape now. If I don��t go, who will?��


    Ashe��s lips curled into a smile as he knelt and gently patted Deya on the back of her head. ��Don��t worry, I��m the top of the Art Ranking. Annan hasn��t even painted my portrait yet.��


    A warm wave of joy quickly swept through Deya, dispelling her inner gloom and drying her tears. At the same time, she felt a tingling sensation all over her body. Looking down, she saw all her wounds rapidly healing.


    Miracle: Single-minded Devotion �C Joy Sword.��And, I have a secret weapon.��


    Secret weapon?


    Deya paused, just about to ask when she felt the heat from his gaze. Her eyes were drawn to the tenderness in Ashe��s eyes, her soul seeming to melt away in those depths, leaving her momentarily dazed.


    She had seen that look before.


    In Banjeet��s eyes.


    In the Sword Princess��s eyes.


    But she never imagined someone would look at her that way.


    For a moment, it wasn��t just Deya; the White Queen, the ck Butler, even the Scarlet Dead Apostles with their death wishes, all felt a pang of jealousy towards the youngest sister.


    What they didn��t see was that as Ashe turned to walk towards the rubble, the intense passion in his eyes had transformed into his strength.


    Miracle: Single-minded Devotion �C Love Sword.


    After enhancing himself, Ashe didn��t feel a surge of power overwhelming him. Instead, he felt his grip on his sword be steadier, his steps quicker, and his mind clearer. It was as if he was back in his senior year of high school, with only one determined goal in his heart��


    Victory, and then survival with Lise and Igor!


    Miracle: Sword Art!


    Miracle: Rage Sword!


    As the secret guard burst through the rubble, Ashe unleashed three strikes, like dark red meteors, rushing towards the ck Knight!


    ng!


    A transparent miracle barrier blocked all the des�� charges, the dark red meteors stopping a yard short. The ck Knight calmly pulled out the Gospel Book and nced at Ashe with a serene expression.


    At that moment, Deya suddenly realized.


    The secret weapon Ashe mentioned, could it be��


    Hiding under a table in a safety triangle, barely surviving the copse, Igor used all his strength to open the resonance chamber, trying to make his voice prate theyers of chaos:


    ��Ashe, don��t count on the Fiend Trench Coat! The secret guard can use points from the Gospel Book to resist mental suggestions!��


    Fiend Trench Coat, Twisting Mask.


    Ashe looked like he had stepped straight out of the top-rated artwork on the Art Ranking. His figure was imprinted in the secret guard��s eyes.


    The dark red paint of the trench coat spread out like a sea of blood, the crumbling corridors twisted into the intestines of a monster, the light refracted into a kaleidoscope of decay, and then everything copsed, plummeting downwards.


    In a daze, the secret guard found himself standing on a beach.


    Before him, a towering ck tsunami rose dozens of feet high, a massive raft woven from fingernails riding the crest of the wave. Ashe stood at the bow, blowing a horn, the sky responding with serpentine lightning, the earth quaking with sorrowful cries, the ck sea singing a frenzied chorus, the entire world hurtling towards an unstoppable apocalypse!


    ��So this is the mental scan of the Fiend Trench Coat���� The secret guard thought calmly: ��My Mental Sect is also at the Golden level, but I didn��t expect Ashe Heath��s mental sect to surpass mine, even dragging me into this illusion.��


    ��But this is as far as it goes.��


    A ck and silver Gospel Book appeared before the secret guard. He raised his hand and gently tapped the cover.


    Ding ding ding��


    As the beautiful Gospel descended, the stormy sky gradually cleared, bing a vast expanse of blue under the bright sunlight. The once-trembling, crumbling earth stabilized, blooming with spring flowers and lush green trees.


    The sound of the horn was gradually reced by the holy resonance of the Gospel, pacifying the tsunami and purifying the ck sea. Even Ashe��s phantom knelt in penitence, dissolving in the sacred redemption of the Gospel.


    The secret guard was unsurprised by this. It was the Empress Yisuo��s envoy, a follower of the Omniscient Weaver. Under the protection of the great Gospel, nothing in the world could stand against it.


    All evil would be dissolved by the Gospel, all harm neutralized by its power.


    For at this moment, it represented the will of the Gospel�� Wait?


    The secret guard realized it hadn��t escaped the illusion.


    Moreover, although Ashe��s phantom had vanished, the raft he was on remained in the sea.


    And on the raft was a slender figure.


    As the raft drew closer to the beach, the secret guard struggled to maintain its calm and detached demeanor, even its armor began to tremble. When the raft finally beached, the secret guard, forgetting its vow of secrecy, spoke in a trembling voice:


    ��Your Majesty the Empress?��


    But it quickly shook its head, stepping back hurriedly. ��No, you��re not the Empress. Who are you?��


    ��I��m certainly not that old witch.��


    The ck Witch stepped off the raft, her bare feet sinking into the soft sand. ��As for who I am, can��t you guess? Aren��t you here to find me?��


    The secret guard clutched the Gospel Book tightly, as if it could lend more authority to its words. ��But you can��t be Princess Lise Deya. The Armored Sanctification isn��tplete, she wouldn��t�� I understand now, you��re one of the spirit manifestations of the Bewitching Princess!��


    ��Bewitching Princess�� ha ha����


    The ck Witchughed. ��Did the old witch tell you that, or are you just deceiving yourself? Never mind, let��s not talk about that wretched old woman. But here I am, revealing myself to you, and yet you won��t even take off your helmet? ����


    ����My dear aunt.��


    The secret guard instinctively touched her face.


    The ck Knight��s helmet, which had concealed her appearance since adulthood, and the mask she hadn��t removed in over a decade, were now gone. As the sunlight directly hit her face and the wind brushed against her skin, she felt a profound sense of unfamiliarity.


    When you��ve been hidden within armor for over ten years, the sunlight feels like the sun��s tongue licking you, and the wind feels like a demon caressing your skin.


    The ck Witch and the ck Knight, different in age, identity, and status, yet they shared the exact same appearance.


    ��No wonder the old witch made you wear helmets.��


    The ck Witch looked at the secret guard, whose face was identical to her own. Her tone was a mix of mockery and pity: ��Seeing a bunch of people who look exactly like you is just too disgusting.��

 Chapter 356: Falling from the High Tower Once Again

    Chapter 356: Falling from the High Tower Once Again


    Boom! Boom!


    The previously serene illusion of peaceful times suddenly turned catastrophic. The sky erupted in thunder and torrential rain, the ground spewedva, and monstrous sea creatures emerged from the ocean.


    But this time, it wasn��t the Fiend bringing about a mental apocalypse.


    This time, it was the secret guard who initiated the natural disaster!


    ��You seem to know a lot of information that Princess Lise Deya shouldn��t be aware of,�� said the secret guard, standing amidst the storm and flipping open the Gospel Book. ��But if you think these words can shake my resolve, you��re gravely underestimating a secret guard.��


    ��I only need to confirm two things: 1) You are not Princess Lise Deya, but a spirit deceiving and beguiling the princess; 2) I must kill you to escape this illusion.��


    ��Submit to the judgment of the Gospel. To eliminate phantoms like you who threaten the princess, I will pray for the harshest Gospel.��


    Amidst the cataclysmic chaos, the sacred and solemn Gospel rang out clearly. Even as the overture to an execution, it granted the condemned a sense of despair without incongruity.


    First came eight dark bolts of lightning, akin to ck serpents. This was the Divine Intervention known as Orochi��s Teeth, which once pierced through hell, leaving eternal, unheble scars. To this day, hell still echoes with the venomous hiss of these thunderous snakes.Orochi��s Teeth instantly obliterated the ck Witch, but the secret guard had no intention of stopping there. The Gospel Book in her hand glowed with iridescent light, and the storm suddenly transformed into a golden downpour, converging on the ck Witch��s location to form a river of gilded rain that pierced the heavens and earth!


    Divine Intervention: Golden Time Flow!


    The Omniscient Weaver could summon a Golden Flow from the Time Continent, using time to destroy all tangible life in the world. Even spirits could not withstand the decay of time!


    The secret guard turned to another page in the Gospel Book and suddenly moved thousands of miles into the sky. She gazed as a colossal meteor broke through the clouds, shaking the air and crashing into the ground!


    Divine Intervention: Starfall!


    Though it was an apocalyptic miracle of the Dark God from an exotd, it was perfectly suited for this execution!


    Then, a tsunami engulfed the continent, with countless frenzied waves forming a massive whirlpool. Within it, one could vaguely see the ocean transforming into two immense serpents, chasing and entwining each other, mercilessly crushing the continent and obliterating life!


    Divine Intervention: Whirlpool Twin Serpents!


    This was a Divine Intervention borrowed by the Omniscient Weaver from ancient history. It is said that the whirlpools and undercurrents in the present-day Sea of Knowledge are merely aftershocks caused by the ancient Whirlpool Twin Serpents!


    From the murky depths of the sea suddenly erupted towering mes, forming a vast inferno fortress. Within this fortress, boilingva heated the ocean, with scorching air currents spreading, hot enough to burn lungs��a terrifying scene akin to hell��s descent!


    Divine Intervention: One Hundred Million Malevolent Spirits�� Molten Iron Hell!


    This was a punitive Divine Intervention created by the Omniscient Weaver, capturing a fragment of hell��sndscape. With temperatures capable of melting steel, unbearable even for the dead, all emotions and thoughts would be vaporized, leaving only the purest knowledge and memories!


    As the Molten Iron Hell gradually shrank and disappeared, the secret guard slowly closed the Gospel Book.


    The clouds gathered around her, forming a majestic and sacred pce in the sky. She stood on the baster floor, overlooking the distant embers, as if gazing down from heaven upon hell.


    In the Mental Illusions, Divine Interventions could destroy all tangible things but could not extinguish the intangible heart.


    Just as Ashe��s ��Fiend��s Intimidation�� created apocalyptic scenes to intimidate targets, the secret guard could only use Divine Interventions to torment the target, thereby stifling their mental light.


    In the Mental Illusions, giving up was the only true failure.


    However, the fear, pain, and torment brought by the Divine Interventions were not mitigated in the slightest. Merely witnessing them from a safe distance, the secret guard was herself shocked and terrified by the Divine Interventions she had prayed for. She couldn��t even begin to imagine the excruciating pain and the sheer despair the spirit, who faced the Divine Interventions directly, must have endured.


    Theoretically, under such intense bombardment of Divine Interventions, the spirit should have copsed and perished within a second. Yet��


    She still hadn��t escaped the illusion.


    ��Pain����


    From the burning embers came a chilling, sorrowful female voice: ��It really hurts����


    The secret guard��s body trembled slightly, making it difficult even to hold the Gospel Book steady. She quickly flipped open the Gospel Book, causing a meteor shower to rain down from the sky, saturating the ashes below!


    From the burning rubble emerged a fragile humanoid figure made of ck smoke. With each light step she took, the ck smoke began to solidify into bones; with the second step, flesh sprouts appeared on the bones; with the third step, exposed nerves grew; by the fourth step��


    Eight dark thunderous serpents had already descended.


    Then came the Golden Flow, thunderstorm, Starfall, vacuum distortion, ck coffin corrosion, molten iron hell, nerve chaos�� several, dozens, even hundreds of Divine Interventions capable of destroying cities and nations stacked on each other. However, their impact was as dull and vorless as this straightforward description, instilling neither fear in the condemned nor reassurance in the adjudicator.


    Useless.


    Useless!


    Useless!!


    Now, the entire Mental Illusions had been ravaged into hell by Divine Interventions. The light here could melt all tangible things, the air would corrode all material bodies, fingernails would escape in the chaos, and neurons would rebel and harm their originals.


    If not for the ��Heavenly Pce�� protecting her, the secret guard would be tormented to death by the ubiquitous curses in just a second of exposure to the outside air. Her body would spontaneously disintegrate.


    Such despair would make any living being willingly give up struggling!


    So she couldn��t understand at all why that spirit hadn��t given up by now, why it was still moving forward!


    Whoosh!��


    Surpassing countless Divine Interventions, as the shadow finally stepped onto the baster floor, bones first solidified, then blood and flesh grew, and nerves wove together until the figure resumed the form of the ck Witch.


    The mere sight of this grotesque regeneration was enough to shatter most people��s mental defenses.


    The secret guard stared nkly at the woman who had emerged from hell, her legs giving way and copsing to the ground.


    No armor could protect her frailty.


    No great paradise could conceal her insignificance.


    Her fighting spirit had long been crushed under the ck Witch��s advancing steps.


    She murmured, ��What exactly are you? How can you endure so much pain? Why won��t you give up?��


    ��The questions you��re asking, I actually want to know too.��


    The ck Witch looked down at her own hands. ��Unlike me now, she was only a year and a half old at that time, hadn��t experienced betrayal or setbacks, hadn��t seen disaster or death. She was like a flower in a greenhouse, only using her mouth to harden her resolve. Apart from a facade of strength, inside she was just an anxious young girl.��


    ��My heart is much stronger than hers. The pain she has to endure would be a thousand times greater for me; the torment I��ve gone through is just a trivial moment for her.��


    ��How did she crawl out of hell and drag you into the Abyss?��


    The secret guard stared nkly at the ck Witch. ��What are you talking about? I don��t understand.��


    ��It��s okay. I��m not talking to you.��


    The ck Witch��s lips curled into a smile as she walked over and squatted in front of the secret guard.


    ��Aunt, can you tell me why, even though I am your niece, you show me no mercy at all?��


    ��I���� The secret guard��s dazed expression showed a hint of conflict. ��I just����


    The secret guard stammered for a long time without saying a word, but the ck Witch seemed very patient, not rushing at all. She reached out to touch her aunt��s head, holding the ck Knight in her arms,forting her like a sister would.


    The secret guard gradually rxed, softening in the ck Witch��s embrace, her voice barely audible. ��I�� because I hate Lise Deya.��


    ��Why do you hate her?��


    ��Because she is the Empress��s chosen heir�� she is the future Yisuo Empress�� the future Mortal God, Gospel Incarnation, the Omniscient Weaver��s worldly avatar.��


    The secret guard murmured, ��Clearly, I am exactly like Lise Deya, even better than her�� but why is she so fortunate, while I can only hide in armor, living as a nameless secret guard, forever detached from happiness?��


    ��I want to wear dresses, I want to fall in love, I want to be loved�� What did I do wrong to deserve nothing?��


    ��I hate Lise Deya, I��m jealous of Lise Deya, I hate myself for not being Lise Deya�� so, so I����


    Hearing the sobs in her arms, the ck Witch gently stroked her aunt��s hair, whispering softly, ��I understand, I understand it all. I know what it feels like to want something so badly but never get it.��


    ��So, I hope you can understand me too.��


    The secret guard stared nkly at the ck Witch, who cupped her face and wiped away her tears with her thumb. ��Someone once told me that ��making up for regrets�� is actually just ��self-constion.�� I understand that even if I seek revenge here, it won��t lessen that person��s pain one bit.��


    ��But I��ve always wondered, if it hadn��t been the Scarlet Dead Apostles who died that day, but me, would everything be different? So, I��m not here to make up for regrets, nor for revenge, but to����


    ��Make a different choice.��


    Whoosh!


    Four murky ck wings unfolded behind the ck Witch. The secret guard, held in the ck Witch��s arms, watched in indescribable shock.


    Four Wings�� a spirit?


    ��Thank you, Aunt.��


    The ck Witch held the ck Knight tightly as the Heavenly Pce began to copse, and they both fell into the burning world.


    ��You��ve granted my wish.��


    ��Ahhhhhh!��


    The ck Knight suddenly let out a roar, and a shockwave burst forth, sending Ashe flying into the wall.


    With a groan, he cast a ��Joy Sword�� on himself, ready to continue fighting, but saw the ck Knight clutching his head, rolling on the ground, screaming hysterically.


    Ashe immediately thought of his ��Fiend Trench Coat�� and breathed a sigh of relief. ��Hmph, anyone who dares look at me ends up like this!��


    Deya was also a bit bewildered. Could the Weaving Festival��s reward really be so powerful that even a Royal Family��s secret guard couldn��t withstand it?


    At that moment, the ceiling near the window suddenly copsed, creating a small opening. Igor��s dust- and blood-covered hand reached out from it, shouting, ��Get up here! The secret guard has a Miracle blessing that absorbs all damage. You can��t kill her, run!��


    Damn, an invincibility blessing? How are we supposed to fight that? Ashe immediately rushed towards the hole, signaling Deya to hurry up.


    ��Ugh�� ahhh����


    The secret guard felt her once-light armor now be unbearably heavy. The stomach acid she retched up collected inside her helmet, burning her face. She felt like every bone in her body was decaying, every nerve twisting, every blood vessel reversing flow. The immense pain from deep within her soul permeated her entire being, even affecting the reality around her.


    She vaguely saw the princess running towards a man, her jam-like consciousness squeezing out a sliver of remaining rity.


    Four-winged Spirit, Lise Deya, Yisuo Royal Family, Gospel Incarnation, jealousy, dissatisfaction, yearning, loneliness, Weaving Festival�� The chaotic thoughts and emotions made her soul swell and bloat until she recalled a conversation before setting out:


    ��If an unforeseen event urs that even the Gospel can��t foresee, and the princess is about to fall into someone else��s hands forever����


    ��Then she will no longer be the princess.��


    The secret guard shakily raised her right hand, and the Gospel Book appeared loyally before her.


    ��For the���� The secret guard didn��t even notice she was speaking out loud. This was her first spoken word in reality in over a decade: ��Gospel.��


    As the secret guard pressed her hand onto the Gospel Book, her consciousness plunged into an endless abyss of pain.


    Deya, running towards Ashe, suddenly lost her bnce.


    She missed her step.


    The ground beneath her crumbled into the finest dust,yer afteryer below it disintegrating like ancient tomb relics, turning the Senhaeser Building into a gaping hole allowing the night to flood in.


    Ashe, having grabbed Igor��s hand just in time, didn��t fall. He saw Deya��s misstep and immediately turned the Honey Sword around, grasping the de tightly with his palm, extending the hilt towards her, hoping she could grab it.


    Deya gritted her teeth and reached out. Never had she hated her own smallness more than at that moment.


    However.


    However.


    It wasn��t even a matter of regret. No matter how much strength Deya mustered, no matter how much she wished her arm would dislocate, her fingertips were still over a meter away from the hilt.


    The only thing that crossed between them was their gaze, and then she fell into the embrace of the night.


    She fell from the high building once again.


    But this time, there was no Bronze Dragon watching over her.

 Chapter 357: The Fallen Knight

    Chapter 357: The Fallen Knight


    Whoosh��


    The night wind roared in Deya��s ears. Her body felt free, unbound, like the freest of birds. Looking down at Vamora below, which resembled a pile of building blocks, Deya surprisingly felt no fear. Instead, a faint joy welled up within her.


    When the Observer and the others shared the Secret Toxin, what Deya envied most was not their teamwork in the Sea of Knowledge, but their embrace as they flew to uncover the secrets of the Golden Fish.


    For Deya, flying was her deepest wish. Every time she gazed out from the tower window at the distant horizon, she longed for a pair of wings.


    After bing a sorcerer, Deya��s greatest hope was to quickly form the Golden Wings. Even if it was only in the Virtual Realm, even if it meant facing danger, Deya still wanted to experience the feeling of flight, just like now.


    The problem was, she didn��t have wings capable of independent flight.


    Last time, the Bronze Dragon had helped her.


    This time, she was truly falling.


    ��When a princess falls from the tower, will a knight catch her below?����Deya suddenly remembered this fairy tale she had told her sisters countless times. Then she thought of the people she knew.


    If Annan were falling, Banjeet would definitely catch her, right?


    If the sword Princess were falling, the Observer would surely reach out his hands, right?


    Then, as I fall, will someone��


    ��Every time, I have to save you.��


    A helpless sigh chased her through the roaring wind, and the girl was tightly embraced by a pair of arms.


    Deya looked up. In the inverted world of descent, she saw the fate falling with her.


    ��Why did you���� Her tender voice was quickly swallowed by the wind.


    ��This is the time to just say ��Thank you, Ashe.���� She felt Ashe��s body trembling. ��I actually have a bit of a fear of heights����


    Deya couldn��t understand. She shouted at the top of her lungs, ��Ashe, why�� you haven��t formed the Golden Wings, at this height, we��ll both die�� why are you so stupid?!��


    ��Great, now you don��t even call me Dad,�� Ashe said, looking at the rapidly approaching ground below. ��Did you forget? We have a Pact. I have to save you.��


    Deya paused, tears swelling up in her reddened eyes, and buried her head deeply in Ashe��s chest. ��I��m sorry�� I��m really sorry����


    ��No need to apologize,�� Ashe replied. ��The moment I saw you falling, my body just moved on its own, kicking off the walls to catch up to you�� I don��t know if it��s the Pact��s influence. I hope it is.��


    ��And don��t talk like I��m going to die with you.��


    Deya lifted her tear-streaked face and saw Ashe wink at her. ��I��ve been marked by the Weaving Festival as the harbinger of chaos. How could I possibly end up as an indistinguishable mess with you? Though, I guess this metaphor would make Igor frown, but Harvey might find it amusing.��


    As Ashe spoke, buildings whizzed past them, and the ground rushed up to meet them!


    ��Hold on tight.��


    Deya clung tightly to Ashe��s neck, her small face pressed against his chest. The wind in her ears disappeared, leaving only the synchronized beating of their hearts.


    ��And then, let��s be a Miracle together.��


    Ashe raised his Honey Sword, plunging it toward the ground like a meteor!


    The moment the Honey Sword pierced the asphalt of the city on the first level, two warm yellow beams of light burst forth.


    One beam rose from the asphalt, enveloping Ashe and Deya. The other beam emerged on the 56th floor of the Senhaeser building, enveloping Igor, who had just plunged the Substitute Sword into the pristine corridor floor!


    Speaking of the structures in Vamora and Azura��s city on the second level, there is a notable difference. This can be seen from the floor numbering of the buildings. Azura��s city on the second level constructs Inverted Skyscrapers, where the topmost ground level descends into negative levels. For instance, Annan resides on the -51st floor, and the lowest point of the Inverted Skyscrapers does not connect with the city on the first level.


    Vamora, however, is different. The city on the second level is directly connected to the city on the first level through a hundred-story high building. Therefore, the floor numbering starts from the ground of the first level up to the ground of the second level. For example, the highest floor of the Senhaeser building is the 112th floor, which also serves as the ground level of the city on the second level.


    Introducing all this is just to illustrate one point��


    The ground of the city on the first level and the interior corridors of the Senhaeser building share a continuous and direct rtionship.


    In other words��


    Starting coordinate: Honey Sword.


    Target coordinate: Substitute Sword!


    Using the Heart Sword as a guide, the Earth Sword as the path, and Flow to transform!


    Miracle: Rush.


    Ashe and Deya transformed into a faint yellow streak, flying from the ground straight to the 56th-floor corridor.


    Igor blinked and saw Ashe, holding his daughter, appear before him.


    The Con Artist exhaled softly, wiping his bloodstained and dirty hands across his forehead. Ashe braced himself for mockery or scolding, but Igor simply leaned against the wall and slowly sat down, looking utterly exhausted.


    ��It actually worked.��


    Ashe, grasping for something to say, remarked, ��Though I��ve always heard that a sorcerer��s Miracle, once the conditions are met, can defy all physicalws, I thought they were mostly just ouws. Now I see, Miracles aren��t just ouws��they��re outright tyrants, trampling over thews of reality.��


    Ashe had always used Rush as a short-distance teleportation Miracle. Due to its instant movement characteristic, Ashe had immediately thrown the Substitute Sword to Igor upon leaping.


    Fortunately, Igor knew the specifics of Ashe��s Miracle and promptly nted the Substitute Sword into a safe spot on the ground.


    Theoretically, as long as there was an unbroken ground path between the Honey Sword and the Substitute Sword, the Earth Sword could create a teleportation route, transferring Ashe, who was wielding the Honey Sword, directly to the coordinate of the Substitute Sword. However, this time Ashe was falling from hundreds of meters high; even a 0.1-second dy in the Miracle��s activation would have resulted in them both sttering on impact.


    But Miracles exist precisely to defy fate.


    Inertia, kic energy, physicalws��these mundane terms all bowed to the will of the sorcerer the moment the Miracle took effect.


    Reflecting on it, Ashe couldn��t help but give himself a thumbs up. This Rush Miracle was by far the best use of a Miracle in his life, at least for now.


    However, no one echoed his sentiments, leaving Ashe��s self-praise hanging in the air. Igor sat on the ground, still recovering; Lise clung to him, wrapped around him like an octopus.


    ��You two made such a mess, Qenna is definitely going to lose it.��


    They looked over to see a hovercar approaching from outside the corridor, with Annan, Banjeet, and Harvey inside.


    The youngdy waved at them. ��Get in quick! I don��t have the money to pay for the damages to several floors.��

 Chapter 358: Even Witches Have Knights to Protect Them

    Chapter 358: Even Witches Have Knights to Protect Them


    Igor leaned against the wall to stand up, pulled a bandage from his skirt, and wrapped it around his hand. Ignoring Ashe, he walked straight into the hovercar.


    Ashe suddenly remembered something and looked at the ck Knight not far away. ��What about that person����


    ��The man from the Firm is already dead.��


    Igor nced at the slightly trembling body of ��Lise��. ��Although its body is still alive, the soul inside has already extinguished�� That��s the judgment of a mental sorcerer. Believe it or not.��


    Ashe had no choice but to believe it. The ck Knight had the blessing of absorbing all damage, so Ashe couldn��t finish him off. He looked down at ��Lise��. ��You don��t expect me to carry you into the car, do you?��


    Deya lifted her head. ��Can��t you?��


    Ashe didn��t respond, just nced at his right hand.


    Deya took a look and was immediately frightened, jumping down and hesitating to reach out. Ashe��s right hand was cracked and split open everywhere, with his arm bone even exposed through the flesh. The hilt of the Honey Sword was embedded directly into the base of his thumb.


    To buy as much time as possible for the ��Rush�� miracle to take effect, and worried that he might lose his grip on the sword under strong inertia, Ashe had deliberately used his palm to press against the hilt. This caused the falling momentum to tear his right arm, gaining an extra 0.1 seconds of air time.Who knows if that 0.1 second made any difference, but Ashe��s hand was definitely ruined.


    Incidentally, the Honey Sword was unscathed, not even bent. Ashe felt like his hand was the shattered screen beneath an intact protective cover.


    Fortunately, Ashe had cast a ��Joy Sword�� on himself beforehand, or he would have fainted from the pain long ago.


    ��Your hand needs continuous treatment for six hours,�� Banjeet said as he jumped out of the hovercar. ��I��ll perform an emergency ice seal now, at least to keep it functional.��


    An old person in the house is like a treasure. As a two-wings sorcerer in his sixties, Banjeet always had the right solution for any situation. Ashe nodded gratefully to Banjeet.


    Though the young butler didn��t show much expression, his actions in treating Ashe were as gentle as possible, suggesting he had forgiven Ashe for their earlier split-up-mainly because Ashe was in such a bad state that Banjeet couldn��t stay mad at him.


    Deya didn��t interrupt Ashe��s treatment. She entered the back seat of the hovercar and asked Igor, ��Do you have a mirror?��


    Igor nced coldly at Deya, took out a hand mirror from his skirt, then turned to look at the night sky outside, begrudging even a single word or nce for her.


    Deya didn��t mind the Con Artist��s attitude and looked down at her reflection in the mirror.


    ��Lise, before the exchange, I want to tell you and everyone else a story.��


    Lise replied, ��Hmm? Now?��


    ��Once upon a time, there was an innocent and lovely princess who lived in a tall tower. She had been there since birth and had never set foot outside. Everyone told her that the outside world was full of bad people and that it was safest and mostfortable for her to stay in the tower. The knights were all protecting her, but the princess still longed for the outside world.��


    ��One night, the princess heard strange noises outside. She looked out the window and saw a Bronze Dragoning to take her away. Trapped in the tower, the princess had nowhere to escape. But she felt happy in her heart because the Bronze Dragon finally gave her a reason to leave, so she jumped out of the window.��


    ��Whether she would be taken by the dragon or caught by a knight, she could finally leave.��


    ��But just as she jumped, the princess suddenly remembered: the Bronze Dragon was just a phantom of her imagination, the knights below the tower were merely guards sent by the witch, and the princess had really jumped out.��


    The Little Witch listened intently, but the White Queen and the others found it quite strange.


    In Deya��s original fairy tales, there was no mention of the Bronze Dragon. The princess would jump down and be caught by a knight, and they would escape together to start a new adventurous life. The old version of the fairy tale had an upbeat and positive tone, while the version Deya told now was heavily influenced by reality, making it very somber and negative.


    ��But.��


    ��That night, a thief happened to sneak into the witch��s pce. He thought there was some treasure in the tower, but instead, he saw the princess jumping down. He followed her, caught the falling princess, and grabbed a silk thread hanging from the sky to swing out of the witch��s pce, stealing the witch��s most precious treasure.��


    ��The princess quietly observed the thief. Compared to the powerful Bronze Dragon, the fully armed guards, and the terrifying witch, the thief seemed too weak. But in the princess��s heart, the thief who fell with her was the real knight, and she was willing to wander with him.��


    ��Okay, I��m done. What do you all think of the story?��


    The ck Butler, who had been holding back for a long time, couldn��t help but burst out, ��Wait a minute, we were the ones who sent Lise to bind Ashe! We were the initiators! Or did I misunderstand? Is the princess in the story actually Ashe, and we are the thieves?��


    The White Queenughed, ��Deya is so concerned about her own glorious image that she��s started using the Time Sect��s power to rewrite history.��


    Lise suddenly realized, ��Huh? Deya, is the thief in your story Dad, and the princess is you? Does that mean you like Dad?!��


    The Scarlet Dead Apostles calmly said, ��Deya, Ashe just saved us. Don��t repay kindness with ingratitude.��


    Deya replied, ��Great, it seems everyone likes this new fairy tale. Thanks for the support, sisters. I��ll strive to write new chapters.��


    The ck Butler eximed, ��She��s lost her mind.��


    The White Queen remarked, ��She doesn��t hear a word we say anymore.��


    The Scarlet Dead Apostles added, ��But Deya, Ashe has eyes for Lise, not you.��


    Lise chimed in, ��Yeah, Dad likes me, and he saved me. Deya, don��t try to take Dad from me!��


    ��How can it be called taking between sisters? It should be called sharing.��


    The sisters were stunned, but Deya quickly exined, ��Just kidding. The Little Witch will continue to y [Lise], and I won��t take her role.��


    ��After all, [Lise] is just a little girl now. It wouldn��t be useful for me. But once the Bronze Dragon Trial is over, and we revert to [Lise Deya]����


    The ck Butler interrupted, ��Will the Little Witch have to call you Mom then?��


    Lise eximed, ��I don��t want a stepmom right now����


    Deya responded, ��You��re all thinking too far ahead. Let��s put the naming issue aside for now. If we revert back, I��ll be [Lise Deya]. As for the [Little Witch] in the Virtual Realm, whoever wants to be her can take that role.��


    The Scarlet Dead Apostles remarked, ��Just putting it aside for now, huh����


    The ck Butler interjected, ��You have sisters, isn��t that enough? If you��re lonely, you can summon more sisters. Why care so much about that guy����


    ��ck Butler, don��t tell me you want to be [Lise Deya] too?��


    ��That��s ridiculous! I definitely don��t! I think you��re just addicted to being spanked!��


    ��Better not be.�� Deya snorted, ��And White Queen, Scarlet Dead Apostles, you two don��t want to be her either, right?��


    The White Queen affirmed, ��Of course not.��


    The Scarlet Dead Apostles added, ��Not interested at all.��


    Deya continued, ��Then swear it. Sisters don��t lie to sisters.��


    The White Queen said, ��Deya, you know me. The proud White Queen doesn��t care for any man.��


    The Scarlet Dead Apostles stated, ��The Scarlet Dead Apostles, born for battle, don��t need love.��


    The ck Butler added, ��I wouldn��t let him lick my boots!��


    Deya insisted, ��Then swear it. Sisters don��t lie to sisters!��


    The White Queen replied, ��Deya, you actually don��t trust me? That hurts.��


    The Scarlet Dead Apostles said, ��I was just about to sacrifice myself for you, and you still want me to swear?��


    The ck Butler concluded, ��Believe it or not.��


    Even Lise could tell something was wrong now.


    ��Dad, my dad, is going to be taken by the sisters�� Deya, give me my body back!��


    ��The Little Witch has entered a rebellious phase, daring to order her sister around�� You��ll be punished bying onler.��


    Deya watched Ashe squeeze in, holding his frozen right hand. She immediately wrapped her arms around his waist. Ashe quickly raised his almost icy right hand and said, ��Hug your Aunt Bukin, not me. I��m covered in wounds, and my right hand is ice-cold. Aren��t you cold?��


    ��No, it��s warm.��


    Once upon a time, Deya was a bit envious of the Sword Princess. She envied her for joining the team from the beginning, for having a better rtionship with the Observer, for being able to banter with him freely, and for receiving more attention from him.


    Even though the Sword Princess tried her best to hide it, even though the Observer adjusted the team��s atmosphere to the best state, Deya sometimes still felt like the third wheel.


    But now, she no longer envied her.


    The Sword Princess might stand shoulder to shoulder with the Observer, but the Little Witch also had her knight to protect her.

 Chapter 359: Qenna Agreed to Our Marriage

    Chapter 359: Qenna Agreed to Our Marriage


    Thousands of bare winter fir trees stood like the legs of a centipede��s corpse, pointing stiffly towards the night sky. The sparse streetlights could only illuminate the brownish-yellow ground, and the air was filled with a sweet and earthy scent.


    ��Where is this ce?��


    Igor nced at his boots, now covered in the marks left by the muck. The soles had met their end on their very first day of use.


    It wasn��t just the Con Artist; everyone had changed clothes on Annan��s orders. They were all wearing thick leather jackets and fully enclosed filtration Masks, walking through a quiet, deserted forest. Anyone who saw them would think they were up to no good.


    ��Forest Park.��


    ��Miss, no offense, but what I meant was-why are we here instead of leaving Vamora directly?��


    After leaving the Senhaeser building in the hovercar, Igor thought they would drive straight out of Vamora. However, Annan headed in the opposite direction, bringing them to Forest Park in the center of Vamora. Once they got out of the car, Banjeet took everyone��s clothes and protective gear out of his suitcase from his spatial tool. It was clear that even without tonight��s unexpected events, Annan, who was still in her rebellious phase, would have run away from home sooner orter.


    Banjeet said calmly, ��You and Ashe didn��te to the 86th floor, so you don��t know that the ones chasing Miss are those bastards from the Happy Family Firm.��


    Annan pointed to the sky. ��It��s clear and fog-free tonight, so all the people of Vamora are resting and not moving around. No one will be driving out.��Ashe suddenly understood. ��So the Happy Family Firm outside the city only needs to check the traffic conditions in Vamora through the Gospel Book to pinpoint us urately! And their specialty is hacking and controlling all intelligent tools. If we drive straight out of the city, it would be like handing ourselves to them on a silver tter!��


    Unlike Ashe, who only focuses on enemy intelligence, Igor detected a hint of resentment in Banjeet��s words and followed up, ��So, it��s the people from the Homewrecker Agency Firm�� Last time we were exhausted just dealing with those two operators. And now, Miss Annan can single-handedly take on a group of pursuers? Harvey, if you had been a bit slower, would Miss Annan have taken them all down on her own?��


    ��How could that be���� Annanughed. ��Those twost time managed to mobilize all the drones in the city, but Vamora happens to have fewer smart robots and drones. The Homewrecker Agency Firm��sbat strategies revolve around smart robots. So, after I destroyed the robots they brought with them, they couldn��t do much to stop me and had to rely on their numbers. Luckily, Banjeet and Harvey arrived in time, or I would have exhausted all my spellforce.��


    ��But it also takes Miss Annan��s formidable strength to hold out until Harvey and the others arrived. If it were us, we might have already been captured by the Homewrecker Agency Firm.�� Igor sighed. ��Miss Annan moves too fast; we have to give our all just to barely keep up with her pace.��


    Annan hummed happily, and Banjeet nced back at Igor. Although the Mask covered 90% of his expression, Igor could tell from the butler��s softened gaze that his verbal massage had hit the mark.


    The fact that Ashe and Igor did not go to rescue Annan first would definitely leave a thorn in both Annan and Banjeet��s hearts. The difference was that Annan didn��t show it, while Banjeet openly expressed his displeasure.


    Igor��s solution was straightforward-exnations were pointless. When one��s life is at stake, emotions will always prioritize one��s own life, while reason will find a thousand reasons to justify this prioritization. Here, there was no need to mention not rescuing Annan; instead, he should find ways to praise Miss Annan.


    Banjeet saw Annan as a daughter, so praising Annan was a hundred times more useful than praising Banjeet himself. As for Annan, if Igor��s judgment was correct, she had likely grown up in an environmentcking positive reinforcement.


    Her mother, Qenna, was out of the question, and the butler, Banjeet, who raised her, wasn��t the type to excel at ��praise.�� When Annan achieved something, Banjeet would most likelymend her with ��Miss, you��re amazing�� or ��Let��s bake a cake to celebrate tonight.�� However, such praise was too ordinary, too boring, and full of a patronizing feel that Annan had long grown tired of.


    Therefore, Igor only needed to gently guide Annan to recount her achievements, scratching her itch with words, and this thorn would naturally be removed. As for Banjeet, as long as you praised the Purple Moth, you were practically his long-lost brother, and his resentment would dissipate.


    However, this method couldn��t be overused. Annan was, after all, in her twenties. If Igor praised her too frequently, she would quickly be desensitized.


    Whether it��s praise, criticism, or love, being more sparing makes it more precious.


    Igor noticed Ashe mouthing the words: ��80 points.��


    Initially nning to ignore this fool for at least 24 hours, the Con Artist couldn��t help but give a disdainful look: ��Then show me what a 100-point performance looks like?��


    Ashe cleared his throat.


    ��Annan.��


    ��Hmm?�� Annan nced at him��calling me by my name so boldly?


    ��Qenna agreed to our marriage.��


    Igor stumbled, Lise, on Ashe��s back, let out a couple of surprised sounds, and Banjeet��s body stiffened��due to the distance, he hadn��t actually heard Ashe��s conversation with Qenna on the gaming floor.


    Annan, however, remained rtively calm: ��What��s going on?��


    Ashe exined how he had disguised himself as her fianc�� to survive, ����and then Qenna decided to help us escape. You won��t me me for seizing the opportunity, will you, Miss Annan?��


    Lise let out a sigh of relief, ��You scared me, Dad. So you were just lying.��


    ��If we don��t leave Vamora, then it��s not a lie,�� Annan said. ��If Qenna really protected you on the premise that you would marry into the Senhaeser family, then even if it��s a lie, Qenna will make it true��she never makes a losing deal.��


    Lise became anxious. ��But, Sister Annan, if you don��t want to, there��s nothing Big Sister Qenna can do!��


    ��It doesn��t matter if I don��t want to. All Qenna wants is for Ashe to marry into the Senhaeser family. It doesn��t matter who Ashe��s wife is, as long as she has the Senhaeser name,�� Annan exined. ��Luckily, we escaped quickly. Otherwise, with all Qenna has done for Ashe, she would have squeezed you dry.��


    Hearing the phrase ��squeezed you dry,�� Igor couldn��t help but nce at Ashe. Ashe��s expression was somewhat distant�� or perhaps longing?


    ��But will Qenna really protect you just because you marry into the family? She��s not that naive, right?�� Annan murmured softly, making Ashe and Igor break out in cold sweat. ��Is there some benefit I��m not aware of����


    ��Look!�� Igor loudly pointed to a nearby underground stairway. ��Is this our escape route?��


    Annan nodded. ��That��s right, it��s here. Let��s go in.��


    Just as they were about to step into the passage, Harvey, who had been silent, suddenly stopped and sneezed. He raised his hand and said, ��Wait a moment.��


    The necromancer lifted his head in a rapturous manner, his nose tracing a figure-eight in the air as he inhaled deeply. He murmured something that sent chills down everyone��s spine: ��Ah�� the mucous membranes are screaming, the heart rate is increasing, the nerves are contracting, the pores are opening�� a hundred thousand? A million? Or ten million?�� Ah!��


    The necromancer��s body convulsed, then suddenly stopped trembling as if entering a sage mode. In a cheerful tone, he said, ��Alright, I��m ready to go down now.��


    ��But we��re not ready,�� Ashe and Lise shivered. ��What kind of hellhole is down there? I��ve never seen Harvey like this before, not even when he smoked ten catnip cigarettes at once.��


    Igor raised an eyebrow. ��Is it the Six Heraldry family��s tomb down there?��


    ��Rather than a tomb, you might be more familiar with its other name.��


    Annan said, ��Beauty Houttuynia Farm.��

 Chapter 360: Igors Malice

    Chapter 360: Igors Malice


    Deep, oppressive, and dark, the space seemed topress more and more, while the sound of heartbeats grew louder, as if eager to tear open the chest and breathe the murky air.


    The group from the Funeral Firm descended the abandoned stairwell step by step, like a troop of L Fatties willingly running into the mouth of an Ogre.


    Each of them had switched on the shoulder lights of their protective suits, even Lise, who was clinging to Ashe��s back, had turned hers on. However, the beams of light couldn��t prate the seal of darkness, limiting visibility to barely five steps. Beyond that, the darkness was as active as jelly.


    ��Ah!��


    Everyone jumped and turned to look at Ashe and Lise at the back. Lise stammered, ��I-I just felt a breeze go into my clothes and it tickled my neck����


    Lise was, after all, just a child, and the environment here was intense enough to test even an adult��s nerves. Her jumpiness was quite normal, so everyone just mumbled a few words offort and continued their descent.


    But soon, another blood-curdling scream echoed.


    ��Ah!��


    The group scattered instantly. Igor stared at the screaming Ashe and asked, ��What��s wrong with you?����I-I-I feel something heavy on my back!�� Ashe trembled, each word shaking out like a shadow. ��Is there a corpse riding on my back?��


    The tense atmosphere broke instantly. Annan reverted the Second Miss back into an earring, Banjeet put down his icy double guns, and Harvey, who was carrying a coffin, shrugged and said, ��Ashe, corpses don��t just climb onto your back. You��d at least have to prepare a coffin for them.��


    ��Dad! Dad!�� Lise tightened her grip around Ashe��s neck, eximing angrily, ��It��s me behind you! And Lise isn��t heavy at all! Stupid Dad!��


    ��Let go, let go, I��m suffocating����


    Igor said coolly, ��I didn��t expect you, Ashe, to learn how to be sarcastic andin indirectly. I��ll give you a 90 for that performance. By the way, Lise, do you still need Ashe to carry you?��


    Earlier in the car, Lise had been clinging to Ashe, and because the roads in Forest Park were in such poor condition, letting Lise walk on her own would have significantly slowed down the group. Thus, Lise had insisted on being carried by Ashe.


    Lise��s eyes darted around. ��It��s so dark here, and I��m so small. You might turn around and lose me, so it��s better if Dad carries me.��


    Igor chuckled. ��Oh, losing you would be a blessing?��


    Ashe gave Lise a firm pat on the butt, causing her to loosen her grip. Panting, he said, ��Then let Aunt Bukin carry you. He��s got a soft body, smooth skin, and a nice fragrance. You��d be much morefortable with him. If not, you could ask the beautiful and mature Second Miss to carry you. I should be your third choice at best.��


    Annan gave Ashe a peculiar look. ��Why am I only the second choice? Is Igor that much better than me?��


    ��Second Miss, we ordinary humans shouldn��tpare ourselves to Bewitchers.��


    ��I��ve said it before, the Bewitcher lineage is only female. I just have a bit of Bewitcher blood!�� Igor retorted through gritted teeth. However, he nced at Lise and suddenly showed a gentle, kind smile, opening his arms. ��Fine, since Ashe is begging, I��ll carry Lise.��


    Seeing Igor��s smile, Lise felt goosebumps rise all over her body, a chill running up her spine.


    The malice beneath that smile was so clear that the Little Witch felt the Con Artist��s every hair bending at an angle that threatened to squeeze the life out of her. She clung to Ashe like a facehugger. ��No, no, no, no, I-I only want Dad.��


    This time, she wasn��t joking. As the sister most adept at sensing the goodness or evil in people, the Little Witch had a strong premonition��if she ended up in Aunt Bukin��s hands, he would find a way to kill her!


    He wouldn��t even need to get his hands on her; if she was alone, he would definitely find a way to ditch her!


    Only by holding onto Dad could she ensure a slim chance of survival!


    ��Um,�� Harvey raised his hand, offering a very considerate suggestion, ��there��s still some space in the coffin. Alice wouldn��t mind sharing it with Lise.��


    Amidst the banter, the Funeral Firm sessfully reached the end of the passage. What greeted them wasn��t a blood-soakedir filled with corpses, nor was it Harvey��s Happy Cave of a thousand graves. If anything, it resembled a dpidated park square.


    A very lively park square at that.


    Little girls were ying on slides, kids were chasing each other, a handsome and elegant man was strutting around, a beautiful and serene young woman was reading on a bench, a cute boy with a passion for gunmanship was disassembling a handgun, and a diligent young girl was practicing her swordsmanship. More than anything, there were many idle,zy beauties lying on the grass. Despite being dozens of meters underground, the scene was as if bathed in sunlight, creating an atmosphere of peaceful times.


    Ashe suddenly recalled a saying: ��As long as your heart has the sea, everywhere is a beach.��


    This phrase fit perfectly here. Though light couldn��t prate through the dozens of meters of earth, these ��people�� were emitting light themselves, illuminating the entire underground space as brightly as day.


    ��These are���� Igor muttered.


    ��These are Beauty Houttuynia,�� Annan pointed at the lifelike glowing figures on the street. ��Harvey, the catnip cigarettes you smoke are extracted from these.��


    ��Second Miss,�� Harvey tapped on his mask, ��I��m wearing a mask right now, so I can��t smoke. Please don��t tempt me like that.��


    Even the well-traveled Purple Moth was momentarily speechless at the necromancer��s response. She suddenly realized that in this era, there was no ultimate evolutionary creature that could match Harvey��s unique taste.


    Ashe walked up to the nearest ��girl�� and examined her closely. Upon closer inspection, he could see the texture of nt fibers in her skin, which made it even more terrifying��every expression and movement of the ��girl�� was so real and natural,pletely unlike the forced resemnce of a ��ginseng fruit.�� It was as if a real girl had turned into a nt person, sending chills down his spine.


    Ashe even had the eerie feeling that the ��girl�� mighte to life and strangle him. His throat felt constricted, making it hard to breathe��


    Continuing from Chapter 360 �C Igor��s Malice


    ��Stop choking me when you��re scared!�� Ashe snapped, giving Lise a pat on the back. The little spirit trembled. ��I��m scared too!��


    However, Harvey, who had been so enthusiastic moments ago, now wore a disgusted expression after observing for a bit. He reached out and pped the nearest ��beauty,�� scattering her into a pile of leaves.


    ��Ugh,�� he said with revulsion. ��This is just too disgusting.��


    Hearing such a sentiment from a necromancer was quite surprising. Ashe couldn��t help but ask, ��Harvey, are you actually picky?��


    Igor gazed at the seemingly endless square in the distance. The bustling yet eerily silent ��crowd�� filled the Con Artist with a deep sense of dread.


    ��Did the Six Heraldry turn their dead nsmen into Beauty Houttuynia?�� Although phrased as a question, Igor��s tone was derative.


    ��Now I��m really curious about your thoughts on this ce, Mr. Harvey,�� Annan said. ��I only know the general situation of this farm, but not the specifics. I thought you would like it here, but your reaction is quite unexpected.��


    ��This ce insults life, desecrates corpses, and twists souls,�� Harvey said, enunciating each word carefully.


    Hearing such words from Harvey left Ashe and Igor exchanging grim looks.


    Ashe suddenly said, ��My ideal is to create a Miracle that would take care of me. My top three dislikes are work, society, and exercise.��


    Igor chimed in, ��I like fools, dislike smart people, and my dream is to travel and explore with endless wealth.��


    Lise joined in the fun, ��I like my dad and sister who are nice to me, and I hate bad people who aren��t. My dream is to grow up quickly.��


    Annan gave them a puzzled look, not understanding why they were suddenly introducing themselves. Banjeet, however, realized what was happening and couldn��t help butugh.


    ��Well, it seems our mental states are all normal, and our personalities haven��t drastically changed,�� Ashe mused. ��Which means the mental attacks here only target the person with the darkest skin����


    Igor added, ��I think it��s aimed at those with the most abnormal aesthetic sense. Ashe, with Harvey here, you got lucky this time.��


    Lise, less sharp-tongued, proposed a more reasonable hypothesis, ��Maybe Uncle Harvey��s brain got messed up from smoking too much?��

 Chapter 361: Beauty Houttuynia Farm

    Chapter 361: Beauty Houttuynia Farm


    Harvey ignored the subtleints of hispanions and said seriously, ��There is no doubt that this is the work of a necromancer, at least of the Sanctuary�� no, possibly even of Legendary realm! This Beauty Houttuynia Farm he set up is indeed unique, but it��s malicious and ruthless,pletely betraying the necromantic teachings of Haagen-Dazs�� I despise him.��


    As expected, there��s no hatred like that between peers. The two-wings necromancer��s tone was full of contempt.


    ��Necromancers do use bodies and souls as spellcasting materials, but the bodies are usually taken from those who have already died, and the souls are captured from those struggling out of hell. Necromancers from the Blood Saint are basically armchair practitioners, even having hospitals deliver the bodies.��


    ��Even those who prefer fresh, hot souls merely kill people and use their bodies on the spot, personally creating the corpses.��


    Ashe and the others breathed a sigh of relief��phrases like ��even�� and ��merely�� in Harvey��s nonchnt tone were enough to confirm that he was still the same twisted necromancer inside.


    ��However, this ce is different.��


    Harvey continued, ��If we necromancers are cooks making cooked food, this ce is a deviant canteen producing sashimi. These Beauty Houttuynia nts are all filled with the scent of living people.��


    Everyone was stunned and turned to look at Annan.


    Annan touched her earring and said nomittally, ��Let��s talk as we walk.��The group from the Funeral Firm walked through the wide za, carefully avoiding the various postures of the Beauty Houttuynia nts. If their previous caution was due to fear, their movements now also carried a protective nature, as if they were afraid of breaking these fragile items.


    ��Do you remember the Family Rebirth Dream, which aims to suppress the threshold increase caused by daily consumption of Beauty Mist?�� Annan said. ��You��ve also experienced the dream. Do you think the threshold is being suppressed?��


    ��Yes,�� Igor affirmed. ��I monitored the hormonal changes in my body with the Gospel Book. Each time I left the dream, the secretion of various hormones returned to normal.��


    ��Then, it can suppress it for a day, a week, a month, a year,�� Annan continued. ��Do you think the dream can suppress it for a hundred years?��


    The outsiders blinked, understanding the implication behind Annan��s words.


    ��No matter how effective the Family Rebirth Dream is, the threshold will still increase bit by bit, and physiological changes in the organs will umte over time, bing irreversible. The progress bar will eventually fill up,�� Annan exined. ��Because of different physical conditions, the progress bars of various races fill at different rates. For humans, it generally maxes out around sixty-five years old.��


    Ashe swallowed hard. ��What happens when the progress bar is full?��


    ��They no longer need to work ande here to spend the rest of their lives�� they retire forever.��


    ��So, your Vamora people have a pretty good old age,�� Igor sneered. ��After all, there��s no old age.��


    Annan replied calmly, ��You just saw those Vamora who ��broke down�� due to the reduced concentration of white mist. When a Vamora��s threshold progress bar is full, their body is like ��all parts are broken.�� Even if you inject concentrated white mist into their veins, it can��t ��fix�� them.��


    ��Beauty Mist is not a miracle. The pleasure it bringses at a cost. For the organization, the pleasure from Beauty Mist reduces people��s desires, which in turn lowers the sorcerer sess rate. After all, sorcerers are almost the most greedy beings. Who would work hard to train and study without a strong desire?��


    ��In the whole Gospel, the proportion of sorcerers among Vamora is the lowest. There are only three Sanctuary sorcerers, including Qenna, which is less than half of Azura��s.��


    ��On a personal level, Beauty Mist destroys most of their subjective initiative. Most are willing to be pawns of the patriarch, living like cattle in reality and like infants in dreams.��


    ��After experiencing pleasure for most of their lives, they are like parts that have been running at full capacity every day; their bodies will be overwhelmed and break down prematurely.��


    ��In the beginning, when these nsmen ��broke down,�� they were just buried and used as fertilizer. But a remarkably talented necromancer, whether because he thought it was wasteful to just bury them or he genuinely cared about these broken nsmen, eventually developed a Miracle that allowed Vamora to ��retire with dignity.����


    ��Can��t satisfy your threshold with the white mist emitted by the Beauty Houttuynia anymore? Then let��s turn you directly into Beauty Houttuynia, cutting out the middleman.��


    ��Too old to work? Then don��t work at all. You can forever immerse yourself in your own Dream, and the excess pleasure will turn into mist and be released.��


    ��Forever retired, forever happy, forever detached from reality.��


    Ashe murmured, ��It actually sounds pretty nice����


    Lise smacked the back of Ashe��s head.


    ��Of course it sounds nice. After all, it is a ��Miracle,���� Annan emphasized, her tone ambiguous, leaving it unclear whether she was mocking or reflecting. ��The Gospel Book can urately predict whose progress bar is about to be Full. On theirst day, these elderly and frail nsmen will, prompted by the Gospel Book,e to the farm voluntarily. When their progress bar is Full and their bodypletely breaks down, the heraldry will trigger the Miracle Ritual Track within the farm, transforming them into Beauty Houttuynia.��


    ��By the way, the appearance of their Beauty Houttuynia form has nothing to do with their originals. It reflects the image they most desire to be, which is why most of them here are young and attractive.��


    Ashe looked around. ��But wait, there are overwhelmingly more beautiful women here. If the gender ratio were bnced����


    ��Wanting to be the opposite sex is a very normal desire,�� Igor exined. ��Gender reassignment surgeries in the Blood Moon have always been very popr.��


    Ashe stared at Igor in shock. ��Igor, how do you know these things? Were you once a pure Bewitcher in a literal sense?��


    Igor rolled his eyes. ��Many people change their gender but not their mindset. ��Correcting self-gender perception�� is a hot topic in the psychological counseling industry. Are you interested, Ashe? I can give you a 20% discount.��


    ��Interested? I��ve never realized that I��m a super handsome, kind, friendly, humorous, sunny, and powerful mega-stud. Please, correct that for me.��


    ��Ashe, stop talking. That annoying little girl behind you is about to throw up.��


    ��Can we please leave here quickly?��


    Harvey looked like a cockroach that had fallen into a bottle of perfume, feeling extremely ufortable. ��Alice is telling me she feels really sick.��


    ��We��re almost there.��


    Annan led them into a passage on the outskirts of the square. Unlike the square, this passage showed no signs of artificial construction; it looked like a natural cave.


    As soon as they stepped in, Lise and Ashe both shivered. After walking for a while, Ashe couldn��t help but say, ��What is this ce? I feel itchy all over.��


    Annan looked at Ashe with surprise. ��You actually understand the Time Sect?��


    Igor��s eyes flickered, and he immediately summoned the Gospel Book to check the time. His pupils contracted sharply.


    The stopwatch on the Gospel Book was spinning rapidly. For every second Igor felt pass, a full thirty seconds psed on the Gospel Book!


    ��I forgot to mention, the Beauty Houttuynia Farm is built within the Abyss, and this is a passage between abysses. Both time and space arepressed here,�� Annan said. ��Once we cross this passage, we��ll leave Vamora and reach the abyss of another city.��

 Chapter 362: Family Ranking

    Chapter 362: Family Ranking


    The Abyss-Ashe had heard countless stories about this ce.


    Most of them wereints from the sword Princess during their idle chats, with only a few tales gathered from Shattered Lake.


    Almost every ce where sorcerers congregated had an Abyss nearby, sometimes even beneath a city. These Abysses could never bepletely eradicated, and the monsters within were endless. A single misstep could lead to an Abyss monster attacking a town.


    In the past, when poptions and civilizations were still developing, the Abyss was a significant threat to kingdoms and a priority for national defense.


    However, as the number of sorcerers surged and sorcerer civilization entered a rapid development era, even though the Abyss strengthened with the increase in sorcerers, the monsters couldn��t match the explosive advancement of sorcerer technology. As a result, the threat of the Abyss diminished year by year.


    Eventually, the Abyss��s status dropped from a ��major threat�� to a ��daily task�� level, no longer even considered a national defense issue.


    The Blood Moon Kingdom chose to hand over the Abyss to adventurers, using it as a means to deal with unruly adventurers who didn��t fit into civilized society, effectively turning the Abyss into a garbage disposal. In contrast, the Gospel Kingdom assigned Bluebeard to suppress each Abyss. However, Bluebeard wasn��t part of the national defense forces but rather a corporate private army. Simply put, the Gospel Kingdom leased the Abyss to corporations, allowing them to manage the Abyss and profit from it.


    In the past, the Abyss was a looming threat to humanity; now, it was more like a minor inconvenience.


    Of course, this only referred to the firstyer of the Abyss. The deeper levels remained a perilous zone where even legendary sorcerers from the Sanctuary could fall.For the sword Princess, a vige girl sorcerer, the best way to earn resources and gainbat experience was to venture into the Abyss.


    Materials from Abyss monsters were often highly valuable. They could be used to craft equipment or made into potions that enhanced the ��virtual realm resonance�� of specific spirits. For example, a ��Vibration Sword Potion�� could significantly increase the chances of sessfully summoning a Vibration Sword.


    Moreover, Abyss monsters sometimes dropped spirits, making it almost like a mini virtual realm.


    But the problem was, the Abyss was not a virtual realm.


    If a sorcerer died in the Abyss, they truly died.


    Moreover, the Abyss is unpredictable. If you��re unlucky and encounter an Abyss boiling, Deep Monsters might wander up to the first or secondyers for a stroll. Even legendary sorcerers from the Sanctuary can meet their end. This isn��t a rare urrence��if a legendary sorcerer is busy farming gold on the lower levels, they might attract Deep Monsters.


    It��s a ssic case of mutual esction: you bully my smaller monsters, and I��ll send my bigger ones to bully you. It��s like both sides swapping baby creatures.


    Thus, venturing into the Abyss is a mix of risk and opportunity. In the past, when society wasn��t as developed, people had no choice but to dive into the Abyss to gather sorcerer resources. Nowadays, with society more advanced, everyone prefers tofortably be legendary sorcerers at home before venturing out. Who wants to risk their life fighting in the Abyss?


    At that time, the sword Princess hadn��t yet participated in schoolpetitions and was still struggling financially. She would repeatedlyin in Ashe��s ear about the dangers of the Abyss, with a clear motive: ��I��m so cute, please take care of me. How could you bear to let such an adorable girl go on an Abyss Adventure?��


    Ashe would always nod vigorously��of course, he could bear it. After all, he wasn��t the one going into the Abyss. ��Sword Princess, you need to work hard in the dungeons so I can enjoy a good life.��


    It wasn��t that he didn��t want to support her; he simply couldn��t afford it.


    ��But I remember, isn��t the Abyss terrain constantly changing?�� Ashe asked. ��Because of these frequent changes and outbursts, sorcerers can��t establish military bases and clear the Abyssyer byyer.��


    ��You��re right, the Abyss does frequently change,�� Annan nodded. ��But the changes don��t affect people. The Abyss terrain shifts, but its overall style remains the same��a dungeon stays a dungeon, a cave stays a cave, and a maze stays a maze.��


    ��The next part is simple��since Beauty Houttuynia hasn��t ��died,�� the Abyss changes won��t affect them. Even the ground, buildings, and walls they touch won��t change. If there are enough Beauty Houttuynia spread widely, they can stabilize the Abyss terrain.��


    ��But how do we deal with the monsters in the Abyss?��


    ��Now, the white mist is suppressed by Divine Intervention, but don��t forget, this is where the Beauty Mist originates,�� Annan said with a softugh. ��Even we sorcerers are affected by the white mist; do you think the monsters are immune?��


    ��Creatures and beasts affected by the white mist are constantly filled with joy and pleasure, losing their will to fight from a physiological standpoint. Constant exposure to high concentrations of Beauty Mist quickly raises their threshold to the point of mental copse. About once a month, remation sorcererse to collect the monster corpses��we��re currently wearing the protective suits they use for their work.��


    ��Handling excess poption, producing strategic resources, defending against Abyss invasions, efficiently ughtering monsters�� what a practical facility,�� Igor remarked. ��You could tell me that the Beauty Houttuynia Farm also serves as a sewer and a hospital, and I wouldn��t be surprised.��


    ��What about the Abyssal Passage?�� Ashe asked. ��This is the first time I��ve heard of such a mechanism.��


    ��Simply put, the Abyss doesn��t exist in istion,�� Annan exined. ��At least, the Abysses within each Kingdom are interconnected. The passages between Abysses are special conduits thatpress space and time, allowing rapid travel across great distances to another Abyss. It��s a convenient way to move quickly when needed.��


    ��If there��s such a convenient mode of transportation, then����


    ��The only drawback is that the Abyssal Passage is constantly changing,�� Annan said. ��A stable Abyss like the Beauty Houttuynia Farm is unique to the Gospel Kingdom. Other Abysses don��t have as many ��living�� residents, and their terrain is oftenplex and varied, which makes it impossible for Abyssal Passages to serve as regr transportation routes.��


    ��Additionally, before sorcererspletely subdued the Abyss, they couldn��t freely use the Abyssal Passage; by the time they could move in and out of the Abyss at will, they had already invented transportation tools that rivaled the Abyssal Passage.��


    ��Many people also can��t ept the timepression feature of the Abyssal Passage. For example, we might walk for several minutes here, but several hours would pass in the outside world. Overall, traveling through the Abyssal Passage doesn��t save ��real-world time,�� but our subjective experience is that we��ve saved several hours.��


    ��Wait, isn��t this time travel?�� Ashe��s eyes lit up. ��If I stay here for a year, decades will pass outside-��


    ��Setting aside the dangers, your body still ages ording to the external world��s time,�� Annan exined. ��So while it may feel like only a year has passed for you, your body will age by several decades. If you just want to travel to the future, sorcerers have other ways to dy aging without needing toe to the Abyss.��


    ��In this case, I highly rmend the coffin hibernation method,�� Harvey, who seemed more energetic after leaving the Beauty Houttuynia Farm, chimed in. ��It involves preserving you as a corpse and then restoring you to a living person a hundred yearster, with only a 30% loss of your current lifespan. Interested?��


    Ashe asked, ��Has anyone tried it?��


    ��Yes, many wealthy individuals on the brink of death have used this method, though they typically wake up as paupers,�� Harveyughed. ��The Blood Saint Institute runs this business through their ��Hibernation Department,�� which specializes in milking money from wealthy Short-Lived Species. These clients seem to think that future societies will grant them eternal life for free.��


    ��Those who can��t face time will inevitably be abandoned by it,�� Igor remarked calmly. ����Hoping for the future�� is synonymous with ��giving up on the present.����


    Banjeet, who was leading the way, suddenly said, ��We��re here.��


    It felt as though they had passed through an invisible veil, leaving the natural dark cave and entering a brightly lit underground ruin.


    The brick buildings were dpidated but not ancient. Wall torches were ced every ten steps, and the narrow corridors could only amodate four people walking side by side. It felt like traveling from a modern city back to the feudal Middle Ages.


    ��Is this another Abyss?�� Ashe looked down both ends of the corridor. ��Why aren��t there any monsters?��


    ��It means Bluebeard has alreadypleted his daily tasks,�� Annan said, removing her protective suit and mask. ��Even the Abyss needs time to rest and regenerate�� Since we��ve left Vamora, let��s perform the Exorcism Surgery topletely eliminate the influence of the Beauty Mist.��


    Exorcism Surgery can entirely remove the craving caused by the Beauty Mist. However, it only addresses the craving, ensuring that the recipient won��t physiologically desire Beauty Mist-rted products. It does not lower the already increased threshold.


    In theory, the residents of Vamora could undergo Exorcism Surgery to escape this city of white mist. However, for those immersed in their Dreams, removing the physical demon is easy, but removing the inner demon is difficult. Except for necessary business trips, they rarely leave Vamora to travel.


    Banjeet took six white cups from his suitcase, then revealed the heraldry on the back of his left hand and ced a me into one of the cups, pressing it firmly against the back of his hand!


    Due to the fire consuming the oxygen, atmospheric pressure caused the cup to adhere tightly to his hand. Simultaneously, spots resembling insect eggs appeared all over Banjeet��s body, flowing towards the white cup like students rushing to the Dining Hall, seemingly being absorbed by the cup!


    ��Artifact Spirit: Exorcism,�� Annan exined. ��Besides removing the craving, it also has effects like clearing heat and detoxification, beautification and rejuvenation, refreshing and calming, promoting dreamless sleep, and enhancing vitality. This product is expensive, being one of Vamora��s main sorcerer technology exports. Using it just to remove a craving is a waste-ordinary people go to hospitals on the outskirts of the city to find regr Healers for Exorcism Surgery.��


    Since the area was safe, they decided to rest here andplete the Exorcism Surgery. Although the white cups looked like they would cause severe suction pain, Ashe found the sensation quitefortable. His skin felt slightly itchy, like hundreds of mosquitoes were sucking out dirt, ckheads, pimples, and other impurities��


    ��Hahaha, Dad, you��re so dirty!�� Lise pointed at the spots appearing on Ashe��s body andughed loudly.


    Ashe nced at Lise and noticed she was surprisingly clean; the white cup couldn��t extract much from her. In contrast, his skin was covered with a multitude of dirty spots, as if he hadn��t bathed in days at a construction site. It was like hundreds of cockroaches were crawling all over him.


    ��Oh��?��


    Seeing the strange smile creeping onto Ashe��s face, Lise sensed danger and retreated. ��W-Why are you smiling�� Ah, don��te near me!��


    ��Watch out for my special attack: Creep Out!��


    Ashe grabbed Lise and started rubbing against her like a cat, causing her to freak out from the grossness. She rolled her eyes and foamed at the mouth, barely managing to pull out a hand mirror. ��H-Help�� help����


    Feeling the trembling ��Lise�� suddenly stop, Ashe blinked and cautiously released her.


    Did he scare her too much? It was just like throwing a box covered with hundreds of cockroaches at her; it shouldn��t have been enough to make her faint��


    However, ��Lise�� broke free from his embrace, turned around, and quietly red at him. ��Did you find that amusing?��


    ��If I say no, it was definitely amusing, but if I say yes, it wasn��t that amusing����


    ��Lise�� furrowed her small brows, ced her hands on her hips, and said, ��Do you think it��s fun to disgust me?��


    For some reason, Ashe felt as if ��Lise��s figure was growing taller, like she had be a neighborly big sister who loved to lecture, while he had turned into a mischievous child. He chuckled awkwardly, ��It��s not that fun����


    ��Don��t do that again, or I��ll start hating you.�� ��Lise�� looked at his frozen right hand. ��Does your hand still hurt? Your whole body is injured, and I still made you carry me����


    Ashe was startled by ��Lise��. Just as he was about to reach out, he pulled back and turned to shout at Igor, ��Igor, Lise is mentally disturbed because I grossed her out. Come quick�� Igor, what are you doing?��


    Unlike them, who were quietly waiting for the Exorcism Surgery to finish, the Con Artist was hiding under a nket, not showing an inch of himself. It was clear he had gotten it from Banjeet.


    Annan was also hidden under a nket off to the side. The two of them seemed out of ce with the rest of the group.


    ��If a kid has mental issues, just beat them senseless. Solving the problem and the person who brought it up must resolve one of them,�� Igor��s voice came from under the nket. ��You only need to take off your belt as a tool.��


    Curious, Ashe walked over. ��What are you doing under there? Let me see����


    ��See what? Your dead head!��


    A fist shot out from under the nket, knocking Ashe t on the ground. Ashe hadn��t expected that this mental sorcerer had also trained in physicalbat, and he couldn��t dodge it!


    Lying on the cold ground, Ashe felt the pain in his arm and abdomen return. He cast a ��Joy Sword�� on himself, sat up, and saw ��Lise�� beside him. Before he could say anything, ��Lise�� reached out and hugged his neck, resting her chin on his shoulder, and nuzzled him. ��Stop fooling around. I might not always be so yful, but no matter which me it is, I always like you.��


    Ashe felt goosebumps all over his body as a strong sense of dissonance washed over him. No, this mature big sister tone should being from Qenna, or Annan at least. When you talk like this, it makes others question my usual parenting methods!


    Not only Annan and Banjeet, but even Harvey was looking at him like he was a pervert. Ashe felt his social status at the Funeral Firm was about to plummet to the level of an untouchable!


    I get it. This is your method of revenge, isn��t it?


    Lise, you��re so devious!


    Click.


    Suddenly, everyone��s Gospel Book popped out, each containing a shining bookmark. Everyone froze for a moment, then realized what was happening.


    ��We��ve been in the Abyssal Passage for a few minutes, but over two hours have passed in the real world,�� Banjeet said. ��It��s already past midnight�� It��s May 20th now!��


    ��The second ranking list updates right at midnight?��


    ��What kind of ranking will it be?��


    ��Is Annan��s n really working?��


    With various thoughts in their minds, they all opened their bookmarks. The title of the second ranking list came into view��


    Family Ranking.

 Chapter 363: Ashe Will Be on My Household Register

    Chapter 363: Ashe Will Be on My Household Register


    Vamora, Senhaeser Building, 72nd Floor.


    At this moment, the Red Hats were already covered in wounds. ��Deadshot Red Hat�� Leite and ��Weeping Sand Red Cap�� Cleos were panting heavily, struggling to even gather the power of the Sanctuary, indicating that their spellforce was nearly exhausted.


    The battle had actually ended long ago. Under the overwhelming suppression of absolute points, Sanctuary sorcerers couldn��t break through the blockade of the Six Heraldry patriarch.


    Even if the Six Heraldry patriarch could only borrow a fraction of the Omniscient Weaver��s power, it was not something mere mortals could ovee.


    It was precisely because of the immense utility of Gospel points that sessive patriarchs of the Six Heraldry family would spare no effort to strengthen and perpetuate their family. Even Sanctuary sorcerers were willing to split their souls as family insurance, and legendary sorcerers would go to great lengths to design the Beauty Houttuynia Farm for the family��not just out of family loyalty, but because the prosperity of the family significantly enhanced the patriarch��s personal power. The points of the entire n could be directly converted into the patriarch��s personalbat strength.


    In other kingdoms, or even in another city, such a family system would be unworkable. How could ordinary nsmen willingly surrender their Gospel points? Only those who were muddled by the Beauty Mist would unreservedly hand themselves over to the family.


    This shows that the founding Six Heraldry sorcerer who pioneered the Beauty Houttuynia industry did not have good intentions. It could be said they were ��selfish to the point of hoping everyone else would be selfless.��


    However, as time passed and the dreamscape expanded, the patriarch, while leading the family, couldn��t help but be swept along by it��the dreamscape consolidated the nsmen��s cohesion and reced the individual will of the patriarch.


    Every Six Heraldry patriarch was immersed in the blessings of the nsmen from a young age, andbined with the subtle influence of the Family Rebirth Dream, regardless of whether their personalities were rebellious,zy, diligent, or yful, the most important thing in their hearts would inevitably be the family. They could be described as being ��selfless to the point where they couldn��t be selfish.��Though it was bizarre and appeared to have many ws and problems, the existence of these selfless patriarchs and selfless nsmen indeed allowed this strange system in Vamora to function positively, even representing the advanced productivity of the Gospel Kingdom.


    The Six Heraldry patriarchs didn��t even exert themselves. They merely had Vamora, this colossal entity, move a finger, and its imposing presence alone was enough to leave the Red Hats gasping for air.


    However, because the patriarchs always prioritized their family, they wouldn��t kill the Red Hats even in anger.


    As an official imperial department, the Red Hats represented the dignity of both Yisuo and Gospel. Even Qenna, who was infuriated by the death of her nsmen, only severely injured Leite without delivering a fatal blow. The other Red Hats suffered merely superficial wounds��after all, killing a Red Hat with one��s own hands would mean never appearing on any ranking list again.


    The Six Heraldry patriarchs only intended to exhaust the Red Hats. Coincidentally, Leite and his team had the same thought.


    When Ashe left, Leite knew it was impossible to catch this apocalyptic fugitive.


    Yet he still led the Red Hats to tangle with the Six Heraldry patriarchs.


    Leite also wanted to keep these Vamora leaders upied.


    Ashe, now exposed, couldn��t remain in Vamora. If he did, once the Yisuo Royal Family��s orders arrived, even Senhaeser wouldn��t be able to protect him. Qenna��s audacity was merely a matter of timing.


    If Ashe attempted to escape by car, the Happy Family Firm on Vamora��s perimeter woulde into y. At this point, the goal was to prevent these patriarchs from reiming him. So even if he couldn��t win, Leite had to hold them off.


    However��


    ��Sigh.�� Leite plopped down,ying aside his several-kilogram sniper gun. ��I��m done fighting.��


    ��Fine,�� Qenna said coldly. ��I��ll detain you immediately and hold you ountable����


    ��No, you can��t,�� Leite replied, pulling out a pair of handcuffs and linking himself to Cleos. ��I��ve already been apprehended by Red Hat Cleos. If you want to transfer the prisoner, you��ll need to apply to Red Hat Azura.��


    ��She can��t protect you either,�� Qenna countered. ��Youmitted murder in front of us, killing two civilians. Even if we let you go, Gospel will dere you a criminal��not just a royal warrant, but despised by Gospel itself. You��ll be socially isted, hunted by Red Hats, loathed by Gospel, never able to find a ce to stand, never able to hear the Gospel again.��


    Cleos looked at Leite, hesitant to speak. She didn��t understand why Leite had handcuffed himself to her. The Six Heraldry patriarchs thought Cleos would privately release him, but this was actually the first time they had met!


    Privately releasing a prisoner would lower her Gospel rating. There was no way Cleos would do that.


    In fact, Cleos had been full of doubts for over two hours.


    Why was Leite so determined to hunt down Ashe that he would shoot innocent civilians? Didn��t he know this would make him lose his Red Hat status and be despised by Gospel? Was he here to hunt Ashe or tomit suicide?


    Cleos couldn��t make sense of what was happening. She pursued Ashe for Gospel points, ranking list cements, and imperial rewards, but Leite��s actions had no benefits and only dragged him deeper into trouble.


    Compared to Ashe, Leite actually terrified Cleos more-she couldn��t understand his motives at all. His image in her mind had suddenly be abstract.


    ��It��s not that serious,�� Leite said calmly. ��As a Sanctuary sorcerer, there are still ways to survive.��


    ��But why?�� Qenna asked the question Cleos also wanted to ask. ��I really can��t understand why you would go to such lengths.��


    ��Didn��t I just say? For the Gospel.��


    ��Isn��t that just a slogan?��


    ��For you family-brained people, it might seem like just a slogan,�� Leite said. ��But I actually want to ask you, Qenna: why are you protecting Ashe?��


    At this moment, the other five patriarchs also looked at Qenna.


    Although they believed that the actions of the Heraldry patriarchs were always for the family��s benefit, they couldn��t understand why Qenna would protect a fugitive wanted by the Royal Family. Defying the empire was absolutely the worst strategy.


    Qenna said, ��It all started with my daughter, Annan, twenty years ago����


    The man with sses interrupted, ��Please fast forward to now, Senhaeser.��


    ��To put it simply, Annan has mastered the Dn Family��s legacy, and she has the ability to influence the Weaving Festival. She knows the second ranking list is crucial for the family. To get herpanions on the list, she decided to use Senhaeser��s Family Rebirth Dream to deceive and influence Gospel��s judgment,�� Qenna exined.


    ��As long as nothing unexpected happens, Ashe and hispanions will appear on the second ranking list. But alongside them in the Weaving Festival, there will also be us, the Six Heraldry��because Ashe and hispanions will be a part of Senhaeser.��


    Leite asked, ��Are you so sure that Ashe Heath will join Senhaeser?��


    ��Of course. Ashe��s fianc�� is my daughter, Annan,�� Qenna said, raising her eyebrows. ��And even if something unexpected urs, I have a backup n. In any case, Ashe will definitely be on Senhaeser��s household register.��


    Everyone now understood Qenna��s intention: to continue the family lineage!


    In the past, the Six Heraldry families didn��t pay much attention to the Weaving Festival.


    After all, for the Six Heraldry with their millennium of umtion, the Weaving Festival��s rewards were just a bonus��nice to have but not essential.


    But now things were different. The Art Ranking foretold a future of apocalyptic chaos, a disaster even the Kingdom of Gospel couldn��t withstand. Vamora would be left with no choice but to await its doom.


    How to protect the family had been a question lingering in the patriarchs�� minds since the appearance of the Art Ranking, and now Qenna had provided an answer��she didn��t know how to ensure continuity, nor did she need to know. Let the Weaving Festival reveal it.


    Gospel is an omniscient and omnipotent wish-granting machine, and the Weaving Festival is an inevitable future. As long as the Senhaeser family appears on the Future Ranking, it means Senhaeser can survive the apocalyptic disaster and continue safely for fifty years.


    Therefore, Qenna had to protect Ashe and hispanions. These people from the exotd were the tickets to the future. Binding them meant boarding the ark to escape the apocalypse!


    The other Heraldry patriarchs nodded, showing their strong approval of Qenna��s n.


    If Senhaeser really makes it onto the Future Ranking and is recognized by Gospel as being able tost for fifty years, then by tomorrow, the Six Heraldry will be One Heraldry, and Vamora will be left with only the surname Senhaeser.


    ��But don��t you think it would be better to kill Ashe now?�� Leite suggested. ��Maybe that way we could prevent the future disaster����


    ��That��s impossible!�� the man in the trench coat immediately countered. ��That��s the future foretold by the Weaving Festival. How could it be changed? And a sorcerer alone couldn��t create a disaster capable of destroying the Kingdom of Gospel, not even a legendary sorcerer!��


    ��Rather than plotting against Ashe Heath, it��s better to make him our beacon to the future,�� the man with sses nodded in agreement. ��Senhaeser is absolutely right.��


    Leite lowered his eyelids, letting out a light scoff, though it was unclear what he was mocking.


    At the very moment the Vamora clock tower struck, a Gospel Book appeared before everyone, with a shining bookmark tucked inside.


    They immediately realized what had happened-the Weaving Festival had updated right on schedule!


    The man with sses opened his book, his usually stoic face unable to hide his joy. ��It��s really the Family Ranking!��


    The man in the trench coat nced at it and couldn��t help but sigh. ��It looks like we��re really going to change our surname to Senhaeser this time����

 Chapter 364: The Master of Senhaeser

    Chapter 364: The Master of Senhaeser


    ��Family Ranking��


    ��Rank 10: Mist n �C Senhaeser��


    The Mist n.


    This name sounds a bit odd. Why is Senhaeser only ranked 10th? It should at least be in the top 3�� Despite herints, Qenna��s joy was evident on her face.


    Because Senhaeser had sessfully made it onto the ranking, recognized by the Weaving Festival as having the ability to extend into the future!


    As for the ranking rewards, nothing was more valuable than this confirmed future!


    However, when they took a closer look, their expressions changed.


    The background of the image vaguely showed Vamora Herding, but unlike the current iron jungle, it was a more refreshing and nature-embracing Vamora. Broken walls, benches, and streets were covered with resilient flowers and grass. Thick white mist flowed like rivers on the ground. Under the caress of the radiant sunlight, the entire Vamora took on a dreamlike ��paradise�� appearance.


    In paradise, naturally, there are angels.In the center of the image floated arge group of extremely pure and beautiful people. Although they had no wings, they walked in the sky with such elegance, as if they were at a ball. Their clothing, primarily green and white, was the main color scheme of Senhaeser. Their appearance was beyond description, crafted with such precision that it was hard to fathom them in any mundane activity. The binary gender division lost all meaning here.


    From the image alone, everyone thought it was the angels of Senhaeser guarding Vamora, this paradise.


    Until they saw the introduction below.


    ��Rank 10: Mist n �C Senhaeser��


    ��Mist n: A new necromancy troop type primarilyposed of Senhaeser nsmen, generally possessing the basic traits of ��Vamora Herding��, ��Mist Healing��, and ��the Longest Dream��.��


    ��Vamora Herding: When a Mist n member is in the Vamora region, the white mist will transform into any form ording to their will, capturing any intelligent creature that steps into Vamora.��


    ��Mist Healing: When white mist is present nearby, the Mist n member is immortal, able to heal their spirit using the white mist at any time.��


    ��The Longest Dream: Mist n members can drag living beings into a rebirth dream. Once a being is seduced and lost in the rebirth dream, they will be transformed into new Mist n members.��


    ��Patriarch: Qenna Senhaeser / Nona Senhaeser��


    ����New necromancy troop type?��


    Qenna murmured, ��Senhaeser�� has everyone turned into the undead?��


    Leite sneered, ��That��s what you get for getting involved with Ashe����


    The air whistled briefly, sending ripples of malice across the outer wall of the Sanctuary that Cleos had conjured in an instant. Feeling extremely vexed, Qenna coldly red at Leite, who immediately mimed zipping his lips, signaling that he would stop his snidements.


    ��Take a good look at the flowers and grass in the background,�� said the man with sses suddenly.


    Cleos and Leite focused their gazes but couldn��t see anything special. Cleos tilted her head slightly. ��Huh? The green grass on this bench�� it almost forms a human shape, a female.��


    These outsiders naturally couldn��t discern the underlying implications. Only the patriarch of the Six Heraldry understood what this scene signified��the Beauty Houttuynia had grown onto the ground!


    The Beauty Houttuynia Farm was a miraculous Ritual Track facility arranged by a legendary necromancer. Beauty Houttuynia nts would never grow outside the farm. However, in the image, not only had the Beauty Houttuynia invaded countless homes, but the density of the flowers and grass, almost covering the ground, suggested that at least tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of people would have to die to create such a grand disy.


    Moreover, with all the Senhaeser nsmen transformed into mist spirits, the patriarch of the Six Heraldry easily concluded: in the future, the entire city of Vamora would perish, and all the living would be converted into Beauty Houttuynia. The sole survivors, the Senhaeser, could not maintain their human form and thus transformed into mist spirits, relying on the home-field advantage of the Beauty Houttuynia to eke out an existence.


    However, there was a small problem here��hundreds of thousands of people dying due to a catastrophe was normal, but hundreds of thousands turning into Beauty Houttuynia was highly abnormal!


    The patriarch of the Six Heraldry was not just for show. If the miracle Ritual Track of the Beauty Houttuynia Farm had failed, or if someone had attempted to sacrifice Vamora, they would have intervened. They would never stand by and watch as their nsmen transformed into Beauty Houttuynia.


    And, that was hundreds of thousands of people!


    Even a legendary sorcerer would grow weary from killing hundreds of thousands of pigs, let alone people!


    Soon, a terrifying yet urate answer quietly emerged in their minds.


    The one who transformed the nsmen into Beauty Houttuynia was none other than the patriarchs of the Six Heraldry themselves!


    Only they possessed such capability!


    And only they could make millions of Vamora��s inhabitants willingly turn into flowers and grass!


    If there were even a slim chance for the nsmen to survive, the patriarchs of the Six Heraldry would never make such a decision. However, if the entire n was doomed, to spare the nsmen as much pain as possible, Beauty Houttuynia naturally became the patriarchs�� first choice.


    Rather than suffering a painful death in reality, it was better to pass away with a smile in a Dream. This was the survival principle of the Six Heraldry.


    In the family system of the Six Heraldry, sending the elderly with a Full Progress Bar to the farm to be flowers and grass was not only economically motivated but also carried good intentions. After all, the patriarchs of each generation would also willingly enter the farm once their Full Progress Bar was reached, bing the spring mud that nurtured the next generation of nsmen. In the perception of Vamora��s people, escaping reality was not shameful; living each second joyfully was the best way of life.


    But what could have happened in the future to make the patriarchs of the Six Heraldry resolve to euthanize millions of Vamora��s inhabitants?


    ��Qenna Senhaeser / Nona Senhaeser received the ��Mist Spirit Ring�� as a reward.��


    ��Mist Spirit Ring: Allows the sorcerer to freely switch between mist spirit and human states. Regardless of the sorcerer��s location, they can remotely harness the power of Vamora��s white mist.��


    A new ring of dark silver shimmer appeared on Qenna��s finger. However, rather than a reward, it felt more like a death sentence.


    But this reward wasn��t actually for Qenna; it was for Nona. Qenna��s original body was still in slumber, and Qenna was currently using Nona��s body.


    This too was strange: historically, Senhaeser had only one patriarch at a time. Even if something happened to Qenna, the power would be directly transferred to her sister Nona, with no clinging to the position of patriarch.


    Under normal circumstances, having two patriarchs simultaneously was unheard of, and the reason behind this anomaly was unknown.


    However,pared to the entire n transforming into necromancy creatures, Nona being recognized as the second patriarch by the Weaving Festival seemed trivial. Therefore, Qenna didn��t dwell on it.


    Normally, the ranking list process would end here, but for some reason, the Family Ranking unexpectedly disyed a video about the Mist Spirit Ring.


    ��Is it over? So soon?��


    ��Thanks to the existing necromancy Ritual Track in Vamora, my Ritual waspleted quickly. Although I disdain Pomb Edifel��s actions, as a legendary necromancer, he indeed left behind an astonishing legacy.��


    In the video, two mysterious figures stood on the rooftop of the Senhaeser building, overlooking the transformed flower and grass paradise of Vamora. White mist flowed on the ground like milky rivers.


    With their backs to the camera, one person in a dark red trench coat danced a tap dance at the edge of the rooftop, seemingly using this perilous y to express inner joy. The other, cloaked in dark green, had chains binding his hands and legs. Although the sunlight was bright in the video, a chilling gloom surrounded him, as if warmth deliberately avoided him.


    No one recognized thetter, but the man in the dark red trench coat was known throughout the entire Kingdom of the Gospel.


    The Gospel Book didn��t leave them guessing��the mysterious man dancing at the edge suddenly slipped and fell off the high building, a sight that delighted many viewers.


    At that moment, two wisps of ethereal smoke shot out from the white river on the ground, quickly transforming into two female elves in green and white dresses. They flew up to catch the falling man and carefully returned him to the rooftop. The two elves, one mature and alluring, the other lively and beautiful, gazed at the mysterious man with fanatical eyes, like cats craving affection.


    Everyone watching the ranking list was stunned, their eyes nearly popping out, even the seasoned patriarchs of the heraldry ns were no exception.


    They thought they had seen it all�� but this was truly unprecedented!


    Because these two female elves were none other than the Senhaeser patriarch and her second-inmand, Qenna and Nona!


    ��I just wanted to experience the thrill of falling, besides, I have wings, why were you in such a hurry to catch me?��


    ��But we must protect our master����


    ��Forget it, I was just about to find you two. Kneel and extend your hands.��


    The elves obediently knelt on one knee before the mysterious man, who took out two rings and personally ced them on their fingers.


    ��From today onwards, you are themanders of the Mist Spirit Legion. These rings are the tokens of the Miracle I bestow upon you. When I blow the horn and dere war on eternity, Senhaeser will be my Vanguard.��


    ��Yes, Master!�� The elves looked up at the mysterious man, their pointed ears trembling slightly as if in anticipation. The mysterious man bent down, gently caressed their faces, and revealed his profile.


    The elves nuzzled his hand affectionately and fervently swore, ��We pledge our lives to follow Ashe Heath!��


    The video ended.


    The 72nd floor of the Senhaeser building fell into silence.


    The heraldry patriarchs were at a loss for words.


    Cleos looked at her fellow elves with a strange expression.


    Leite wanted to say something but ultimately kept his mouth shut��he had a premonition that if he spoke carelessly, he might not leave Vamora alive.


    As for Qenna, who was directly involved, she remained calm. She nced at the Mist Spirit Ring on her hand and tried to pull it off.


    It wouldn��t budge.


    She paused, drew a dagger from the thigh holster, and aimed it at her finger��


    ��Senhaeser, calm down!��


    ��This is your sister��s body!��


    The heraldry patriarchs quickly stopped Qenna from harming herself, and she soon regained herposure. She tossed the dagger aside and dashed towards the window, leaping into the night sky!


    She didn��t form wings or open the Gospel Book but directly used the Mist Spirit Ring she had just received, transforming into a mist spirit and flying over Vamora!


    ��Senhaeser, where are you going!?��


    ��To find our ��master��!��


    Qenna said through gritted teeth, her face flushing with shame and anger. The thought of Ashe��s condescending attitude in the video, and her own fervent devotion to him, made the Sanctuary sorcerer feel a burning fire in her chest, her breath quickening.


    How dare you treat me like a pet and expect me to kneel before you?


    How dare you touch my face?


    How dare you involve my sister and me��


    Just wait until I have you locked up, then you��ll see who the real master is!

 Chapter 365: Ashes Revenge, Never Too Late Even After Fifty Years

    Chapter 365: Ashes Revenge, Never Too Late Even After Fifty Years


    ��Ashe Heath can consistently make it to the list�� Is this the hidden legacy of the Dn Family?��


    In the Happy Family Firm, Azura and the ��Red Cicada Dame�� Ina Aldo were also watching the live updates of the Gospel Book.


    She did not participate in the capture operation led by Annan and others.


    She was too old.


    Although a Sanctuary sorcerer, the Dame was also an elderly woman. The growth in a sorcerer��s power does not directly extend one��s lifespan. Sanctuary sorcerers and ordinary people do not differ in terms of longevity. In peaceful times like these, sorcerers might die prematurely due to excessive soul depletion, while normal people could live out their lives peacefully.


    Even though the Dame��s spellforce remained at its peak, her gradually aging body affected not only her energy but also her will. Compared to decades ago, the Dame no longer possessed the vigor and ambition she had when she first became a sorcerer, nor did she have any curiosity or longing for the Virtual Realm. Each night she entered the Virtual Realm felt like visiting a grave.


    She was tired of it.


    Even if the Virtual Realm were a handsome man, she would have grown sick of it after so many years.


    Just as middle-aged men might turn to fishing, collecting chargers, virtual games, or studying philosophy after experiencing impotence, the Dame devoted all her efforts to the firm after growing weary of the Virtual Realm.Networking, social interactions, and building rtionships�� The more a sorcerer drinks, the less blood they see.


    Stability, career, power��you always have to sacrifice something for life.


    In recent years, the Dame rarely took on missions herself. After all, she ran the firm so her subordinates could do the work. If she had to do the work herself, what was the point of opening the firm?


    Furthermore, this time there were two Sanctuary Red Hats participating in the capture operation. If an unexpected situation arose that even two Sanctuary sorcerers couldn��t handle, then three wouldn��t be able to resolve it either.


    However, unlike the Red Hats, the Happy Family Firm��s primary target was Annan, while others were secondary. After all, teaching someone to fish is better than giving them a fish. If they could obtain Annan��s method of foreseeing the future, it would be more valuable than the Weaving Festival itself.


    Yes, the Dame was certain that Annan possessed a method for predicting the future!


    Upon learning that Annan and others had fled to Vamora, the Dame had a hunch that the second ranking list might be rted to the Dn Family.


    Just like how dipping a crab in a famouske can significantly increase its value, Annan cing her ��tool people�� in the influential Vamora family could very well make the Weaving Festival overestimate the value of her ��tool people,�� leading to impulsive consumption!


    As a fellow firm operator, the Dame understood the working mentality of her kind all too well. Although the Gospel Book was constantly evolving and improving, it still followed rigid operational mechanisms, leaving many loopholes to exploit.


    In fact, the loophole in the Weaving Festival was not a big secret. If the Gospel Book was like a beautiful girl who had all the local intelligence, Annan��s approach was to bring in outsiders like Ashe and have them act as wealthy and elegant young noblemen, thereby causing the Gospel Book to make a misjudgment and be deceived by these scoundrels.


    But there was a tricky part��how did Annan know the content of the uing ranking list so that her ��tool people�� could strategically deceive the Gospel Book?


    The term almost jumped out of her mind: foreseeing the future.


    But it was impossible for Annan to have mastered the Prophecy Sect. The Weaving Festival was a Divine Intervention from the Omniscient Weaver. Even a two-wings sorcerer like her, or even a legendary prophecy sorcerer, couldn��t possibly glimpse the subtle nuances of the Gospel Book.


    Thus, only one possibility remained.


    ��Now everyone knows that the Dn Family has a way to exploit the Gospel Book��s loopholes and foresee the future through it���� the Dame sighed. ��Now ourpetition is going to increase.��


    When the first ranking list came out, most firms were skeptical of Annan��s abilities.


    Due to distance, only the Happy Family Firm and the Happy Peace Firm made a move in the end.


    But now it was different��just a little investigation into Annan��s movements would easily lead to the conclusion that she had the ability to foresee the ranking list in advance. This would undoubtedly attract interest from other firms,panies, and even the Royal Family.


    The Happy Family Firm might not only fail to capture Annan, but even if they did, they probably couldn��t hold on to this prize.


    It was time to leave.


    The Dame decided to withdraw and called her subordinates to retreat. Just then, the Gospel Book updated another ranking.


    ��9th in the Family Ranking: Mech n �C Aldo��


    Dame Ina Aldo was taken aback��Aldo?


    ��Mech n: A new necromancy troop type formed by merging members of the Happy Family Firm with liquid metal. They are neither purely mechanical nor entirely undead, generally possessing the basic traits of ��Cloud Computing Miracle��, ��Electro-Healing��, and ��Automated Operations��.��


    ��Cloud Computing Miracle: The core of a mech is the soul chip, which can produce the purestputational power. A sorcerer with the highest authority over the mechs can have them pre-load miracles, which can be used immediately when needed.��


    ��Electro-Healing: Mechs can heal their spiritual injuries by absorbing a certain amount of electricity.��


    ��Automated Operations: Mechs are the best workers, capable of continuous repetitivebor around the clock.��


    ��Patriarch: Ina Aldo��


    The screen showed a group of identical silver-white robots working in an orderly manner. Their hands were mechanical arms, and their lower bodies were tracks for quick movement, with a mechanical barrier being constructed in the background.


    The Dame was dumbfounded.


    What does ��a new necromancy troop type formed by merging members of the Happy Family Firm with liquid metal�� mean? How can people be merged with liquid metal? Do they bathe people in molten iron?


    Moreover, while mist spirits have somebat power, mechs are essentially just production workers, right?


    However, the Dame couldn��t help but be intrigued by the mech skills.


    The first skill is the Preloaded Miracle. Many miracles require the coordination of multiple spirits, so the spellcasting time can vary greatly. Some can be cast instantly, while others might take several minutes to prepare!


    If mechs could pre-load miracles, the sorcerer��sbat and production capabilities would see a qualitative leap. In battle, all miracles could be cast instantly, and high-difficulty Composite Miracles could even be attempted. In production, preparation time could be reduced, and the cost of practice could be eliminated. After all, mastering production miracles usually wastes dozens or even hundreds of materials!


    The second skill, electro-healing, means that Mech-spirits have no feeding costs. In the Kingdom, electricity is the cheapest source of energy. Mech-spirits that live on electricity are easier to maintain than robots��robots still have wear and tear costs!


    The third skill, Automated Operations, indicates that even if all theputing power of the soul chip is used to pre-load miracles for the sorcerer, the Mech-spirits can still performbor, maximizing productivity!


    Who wouldn��t be tempted by such pure workhorse units?


    It would be incredible to have such versatile Mech-spirits at your disposal!


    However, if you were one of these workhorses, you might not find it so delightful.


    ��Ina Aldo has received the reward ��Liquid Metal Chip.����


    ��Liquid Metal Chip: Allows the sorcerer to freely switch between Mech-spirit and human states, and retain spellcasting abilities in the Mech-spirit state.��


    Ina felt a slight chill at the back of her neck, as if something had been inserted. She closed her eyes for a moment, and mercury-like liquid metal began to cover her body from the back of her neck.


    Secondster, a young Ina Aldo appeared in the mirror.


    Like the Mist Spirit Ring, the Liquid Metal Chip also had its unique projection��


    ��Your idea is quite impressive, merging steel with necromancy,bining cold machinery with the dead, and utilizing the trending Mechanic Sect�� Can you tell me where this idea came from?��


    ��Hmm? Because you mentioneding to Azura to create a necromancy legion, it reminded me of the Happy Family Firm, which led me to remember how they used intelligent machines to hunt us down. Since they love ying with machines so much, let��s turn them into machines��just a petty act of revenge.��


    ��That��s quite a mundane source of inspiration.��


    ��Thank you, I��ll take that as apliment. Now then�� Red Cicada Dame, or should I say Mech-spirit 001, I appoint you as the head of the Aldo Production Corps. Remember to work tirelessly every second to ensure I live a good life.��


    ��Yes,�� Ina, now in her silver-white robotic form, responded, ��Yourmand is the destiny of the Mech-spirits.��


    Ina watched this scene in silence.


    At that moment, the call she had made earlier was connected, and the voice of her subordinate came through: ��Dame, what are your orders?��


    ��Have Annan and Ashe been captured?��


    ��No, there��s no sign of any vehicle traffic leaving Vamora on the Gospel Book. They must have left by other means�� Should we retreat?��


    ��No,�� the Dame said as she stood up. ��Stay where you are. I��ming to join you.��


    ��What?�� her subordinate eximed. ��Dame, are you going to lead the mission yourself?��


    ��Yes.�� The Dame snapped her fingers, and a hovercar flew to her balcony parking lot. ��Since we��ve made enemies, we shouldn��t expect to walk away unscathed. After drinking for so many years, it��s time to make others bleed.��

 Chapter 366: I Want This Dad Too

    From the moment the Gospel Book popped open by itself, Igor was already thinking about how to appease the furious Annan.


    After all, in his view, it was a foregone conclusion that the Funeral Firm woulde away empty-handed in the second ranking list.


    The second ranking list was based on ��Love and Family��. Among their four members, Lise didn��t even qualify for the exam, Harvey couldn��t possibly get a single question right aside from filling in his name correctly, and Igor had been skipping sses and not doing homework ever since he met that invigtor who almost ensnared him on the first day. His usual grades were surely zero.


    The only one with a glimmer of hope was Ashe.


    But it wasn��t that Igor underestimated him; it was just that Ashe was the type who seemed like ��the experience of this exam was great, it��s the participation that counts, I��ll try again next time��.


    Even though Igor hadn��t interacted with Ashe over the past few days, as a mental sorcerer, he didn��t need close contact to understand a person��s mental state. A simple observation was enough. Based on Ashe��s eyes, scent, tone of speech, and walking pace, Igor concluded that he was still a virgin, which was quite rming.


    From their first meeting until now, Igor had always thought Ashe wasn��t falsely used of being a Cult Leader, precisely because of this.


    A man in his twenties still exhibiting virgin behavior traits? The Con Artist thought it must be for religious reasons, specifically some extremely evil and anti-social cult.


    In the Blood Moon, nothing was more abnormal than ��no sexual activity��.Four candidates: one unqualified, one who could avoid all correct answers, one who skipped and abandoned the exam, and one typical poor student. Igor felt exhausted for Annan.


    Honestly, this exam was very simple. ��Love and Family�� wasn��t a difficult topic; normal people would naturally get along well. Not to mention, Annan had brought them to Vamora, the Family Rebirth Dream, a veritable hormonal steam bath. You could throw an ��ice-cold aloof cat type�� in there and get back a ��warm and sweet dog type��. Annan surely thought the second ranking list was in the bag.


    However, each of them was just a little bit off from normal.


    But when the Future Ranking was announced, Igor knew all his prepared excuses were useless.


    Still, it didn��t matter. They would likely have to face an enraged Annan anyway.


    ��Family Ranking 10th ce: Mist n �C Senhaeser��


    ��Family Ranking 9th ce: Mech n �C Aldo��


    ��Family Ranking 8th ce: Soul Reaper n �C Vastino��


    ��Soul Reaper n: The new necromancy troop type transformed mainly from the Vastino n, generally possessing basic traits like ��Life Drain��, ��Memory Consumption��, ��Weakening Gaze��, etc.��


    ��Family Ranking 7th ce: Shadow Spirit n �C Mercury��


    ��Shadow Spirit n: The new necromancy troop type transformed mainly from the Mercury nsman, generally possessing basic traits like ��Shadow Stealth��, ��Shadow Bind��, ��Shadow Solidification��, etc.��


    ��Family Ranking 3rd ce: Nether Knight n �C Rnd��


    ��Nether Knight n: The new necromancy troop type transformed mainly from the Rnd nsman and Nightmare Steeds, generally possessing basic traits like ��Nightmare Steed Summon], ��Death Perception sh��, ��Terror Aura��, ��Life Drain��, etc.��


    ��Family Ranking 2nd ce: Dragon Lich n �C Kaesrei��


    ��Dragon Lich n: The new necromancy troop type transformed mainly from the Kaesrei nsman and Engraved Dragons, generally possessing basic traits like ��Dragon Lich Transformation��, ��Dragon Lich Cloak��, ��Decay Breath��, [Dread Aura��, etc.��


    How to put it, although it was exactly as Igor had guessed, none of them made it onto the ranking list. But in terms of results, it could also be said that they had dominated the entire ranking list��


    Because in the reward item video clips for each family, Ashe Heath appeared in all of them!


    ����Mercury, hunt those who have fallen into darkness.����


    ����Rnd, prepare to draw a bloodline for me.����


    ����Kaesrei, purify this world.����


    Overbearing!


    Demonic charm!


    Arrogant!


    Lise, sitting in Ashe��s arms while watching the ranking list, looked up and pointed at the Gospel Book��s screen, saying, ��Dad, I want this Dad.��


    ��I want this Dad too,�� Ashe said.


    Annan asked, ��Ashe, do you have a legendary sorcerer father, a legendary sorcerer brother, or a legendary sorcerer mother who��s been missing for years?��


    ��Miss, we Blood Moon people are all orphans, but I��ll ept your blessing.��


    ��Do you think I��m joking?�� Annan suddenly punched the wall and then nonchntly blew on her fist as she said, ��If you could make it onto the ranking list, that would be one thing, but why do you keep appearing in the ranking list materials without getting a single ce?��


    ��I��d like to know too!�� Ashe spread his hands and said, ��I��m the one being used by the Gospel for free! I don��t even get a part of the rewards, so why do I keep showing up? I don��t discriminate against races, I don��t abuse animals, I don��t run scripts to scalp tickets, so why frame me like this?��


    Annan beckoned him over, ��Come here.��


    Ashe obediently walked over, and immediately Annan put him in a chokehold.


    Purple Moth sneered, ��Let��s not talk about anything else, why did you make Qenna and Nona call you Master? Tell me, are you secretly hoping to have my mother and aunt as your exclusive maids?��


    ��Cough cough, Miss, let me exin.�� Ashe struggled desperately and signaled to Lise for help. His darling daughter understood and quickly came over to press down Ashe��s legs, fiercely questioning, ��Tell me, Dad, are you trying to find two stepmoms?��


    Darn, I should have just held you and smashed you into the ground with a Lotus Blossom!


    ��That��s all the Gospel framing me, don��t you believe in my character?��


    ��The Gospel doesn��t frame people, it only spectes,�� Annan said. ��There must have been some intimate contact between you and Qenna, that��s why the Gospel spected!��


    Lise also said, ��I believe in Dad��s character, so Dad must have done something bad!��


    ��Please, think from my perspective. If I did like Miss��s mother and aunt, would I admit it?�� Ashe exined sincerely to everyone.


    Igor blinked in surprise.


    No, this isn��t even an exnation anymore; it��s practically a confession, isn��t it?


    At this moment, Harvey suddenly pped his hands, drawing everyone��s attention: ��I understand why the Gospel Weave made Qenna and them recognize Ashe as their Master!��


    Annan asked, ��Why?��


    ��Because a few days ago, we were chatting about you, Annan.��


    ��I am me, and Qenna is Qenna,�� Purple Moth said, applying more pressure on Ashe, who was about to roll his eyes. ��The image didn��t show me calling him Master.��

 Chapter 367: Family Ranking Champion Harvey!

    Chapter 367: Family Ranking Champion Harvey!


    ��It was like this,�� the necromancer began thoughtfully. ��Back then, Ashe said you neither distributed money nor gave out points. The benefits were few, yet the demands were many. It��s like you were a prime example of a streemp. And then he said something about your mother.�� The necromancer paused. ��That sentence was something like����


    Lise and Annan felt a gust of wind rush past, and then they saw Ashe dash forward to cover Harvey��s mouth.


    ��Harvey is just a kid who loves to talk nonsense. Let me keep his mouth shut for everyone���� Ashe quickly changed the subject. ��In any case, the Future Ranking must be wrong. Even if I have ties with Senhaeser, why would I be linked to so many other families?��


    ��Exactly.��


    Igor also came to Ashe��s aid. ��The Senhaeser family has ties with us, and the Aldo family has a grudge against us. But we��ve never even heard of the other families. Why would Gospel link them to Ashe?��


    Annan sighed deeply, pulling Lise into her arms and ruffling her white cat-like hair, looking frustrated. ��Don��t ask me. I don��t know either�� All I know is that apart from the Aldo family, all the other families are prominent financial, Red Hat, and political families within the Kingdom of Gospel! Even if they��re not asrge as the Senhaeser family, their influence is just as significant, if not more so!��


    ��Compared to the ��Art Ranking�� incident, where ��suspected of creating an apocalypse�� was listed as a crime, the impact of this ��Family Ranking�� will be far worse. After all, ��creating an apocalypse�� is like insulting arge crowd; people might wait for someone else to stand up and refute it, and won��t argue with you directly. But this time, Ashe, you��ve specifically named these powerful families as part of your necromancer legion. If they want to escape such a fate, they will undoubtedly try to crush you!��


    ��It��s not me, it��s my future self,�� Ashe argued. ��You can��t me me for things I haven��t done.��


    ��Sorry, that��s the traditional culture of the Kingdom of Gospel. If you��re unhappy, get out,�� Annan retorted irritably.Annan knew this had nothing to do with Ashe. After all, Ashe had spent the past few days with her in the Dream amusement park, but she was genuinely upset about the situation.


    Annan had actually anticipated that the second ranking list would make them the target of everyone��s ire. After all, ��deceiving Gospel�� and ��predicting the ranking list�� would draw immense attention on their own. But she hadn��t expected the bacsh to be this intense��offending all the prominent financial families in the entire nation directly!


    Just thinking about the barrage of criticism they would face in the future gave Annan a headache.


    Her already risky adventure n now needed aplete overhaul. If before she was walking a tightrope, now it would be like doing fingertip push-ups while walking that tightrope��maybe it wouldn��t be a bad idea to pre-order some coffins from Harvey.


    And the person responsible for this situation was that detestable man!


    Lise, who was being angrily rubbed on the head by Annan, feltpletely deted, as if she were taking the me on behalf of her father.


    However, Lise, who could vaguely sense other people��s emotions, found it strange. She felt that Annan wasn��t actually that angry with Ashe. In fact, their rtionship seemed to have be quite close. Annan was very naturally ying and joking around with Ashe, their interactions were almost as frequent as with Aunt Bukin.


    Moreover, Annan��s anger seemed to focus on why Ashe had ties with Qenna and the others��


    Could it be that Annan�� no, Aunt Annan had feelings for Ashe?


    ��Speaking of which,�� Banjeet suddenly said, ��that man who appeared in the video footage with Ashe����


    Everyone fell silent immediately, looking at the man who seemed the most suspicious. Even Ashe was no exception.


    ��It couldn��t be me.��


    Surprisingly, Harvey shook off Ashe��s hand and calmly shook his head. ��I couldn��t do something like that.��


    ��But don��t you like the Necromancy Sect?�� Ashe asked.


    ��I��m willing to dedicate my life��s work to the Necromancy Sect, but that doesn��t mean I would convert living people into undead,�� Harvey frowned, genuinely looking a bit angry. ��Do you all really think the Necromancy Sect is just about antisocial spellcasting for killing?��


    Everyone exchanged nces, trying to find a different opinion in each other��s eyes.


    Harvey didn��t usually mind people misunderstanding him, but this time he felt he had to rify: ��The Necromancy Sect isn��t about creating death, but about utilizing death, following death, and ultimately conquering death.��


    ��To me, the living and the dead are equally important, and there��s an unbridgeable realm between the two. Creatures struggle to survive until theirst breath, and eventually be a corpse etched with their life��s experiences. This is the greatest natural gift to a necromancer.��


    ��Though I despise the Blood Saint Institute, it��s only because they monopolize the supply of corpses. Personally, I greatly respect their approach��the Institute doesn��t interfere with the lives of the living. They observe the birth of life, watch it grow, see it burn brightly, and finally witness its end, then take what remains.��


    ��That��s the genuine practice of a necromancer. Corpses obtained this way are the best materials.��


    ��Converting the living into the undead is like cutting short someone��s life midway, prematurely ending a brilliant existence and destroying all its potential�� It��s the behavior I despise the most. It��s worse than just killing them outright.��


    ��All Spellcasting Sects aim to help people live better lives, and the Necromancy Sect is no exception. The dead are meant to serve the living, not the other way around.��


    Harvey continued, ��I respect life, including my own and that of those I don��t know. I��ll dly n my own death and that of others, but I won��t desecrate our lives.��


    Though his words seemed both understandable and iprehensible, everyone as a sorcerer grasped Harvey��s meaning.


    Sorcerers don��t just learn knowledge from their Spellcasting Sect; they also shape their worldview, philosophy, and values.


    Just as Igor believes that manipting rules is an essential skill for a civilized society, Harvey thinks that only by utilizing corpses can one achieve a better life.


    Sorcerers attempt to exin the world and deconstruct their environment through their knowledge systems. While Harvey might do many things with corpses that seem without limits, that doesn��t mean he has no limits regarding other forms of life. Quite the opposite, during his years as a Controller, he always pursued efficient and silent methods of killing.


    The biggest distinction between Harvey and ordinary people is his ability to clearly separate life from corpses. Life is life and deserves respect; a corpse is just a material. This is something ordinary people find hard to achieve, but Harvey, because of his understanding, has advanced the Necromancy Sect to the Golden level.


    Thus, Harvey��s statements were sincere. He genuinely believed he would nevermit such an act.


    Asking him to turn a living person into an undead would be like asking Igor to be entirely selfless��practically a fairytale-level transformation.


    At that moment, the Family Ranking was about to announce tonight��s luckiest award recipient.


    Ashe sighed, ��Here we go again, let��s see which major family I��m going to offend this time����


    ��Family Ranking No. 1: Blood Corpse King n �C Harvey��


    ��Blood Corpse King n: Archibald Harvey created this most fearsome undead troop type by fusing and intertwining a vast number of living beings, incorporating elements from the Blood Saint and Moonshadow ns. Each Blood Corpse King contains thousands of tormented souls and generally possesses basic traits such as ��Bloodthirsty Aura��, ��Werewolf Giant Corpse Mutation��, ��Immortality��, ��Tombstone Soul Lock��, and ��Immunity to Miracle Weaving��.��


    ��Patriarch: Archibald Harvey��


    Ashe blinked at Harvey, and everyone else turned their gaze to him as well.


    So much for your im of not desecrating life. Gospel doesn��t seem to believe you.


    Harvey pondered for a moment, then suddenly moved a few steps away from Ashe.


    ��What��s the matter, afraid I��ll hit you?��


    ��I��m afraid that when Gospel strikes you with lightning, I��ll get caught in it too,�� Harvey pointed at the Gospel Book and said, ��See? This is what happens when I get close to you. Even I got framed by Gospel.��

 Chapter 368: Angel

    Chapter 368: Angel


    Jokes aside, once everyone��including Harvey himself��regained theirposure, the thought that the Gospel Book might be malfunctioning crossed their minds.


    It made sense for the Heath Family, Bukin Family, and Dn Family to be included, as despite being single and possibly forever alone, they still had the concept of ��Love and Family�� in their hearts.


    But the Harvey Family? That term sounded like a cadaver culinary study group.


    It��s not that cadavers can��t learn culinary skills, but they simply don��t need to eat L Fatty��s food.


    Harvey didn��t need love, nor did he need a family.


    The other nine necromancy families on the Family Ranking, while being necromancers, still retained a sense of love and the need to protect and continue their families, barely meeting the criteria to be ranked.


    But Harvey�� If necromancy families were like living people acting dead, then Harvey was a dead person acting alive.


    If one day Harvey told them, ��Why isn��t my heart beating?�� everyone would just think the heart was fine, it was simply that Harvey didn��t want to live anymore, causing his heart to go on strike. Harvey should be the onepensating his heart for negligence.


    Because Harvey had long gone mad.Perhaps he went mad in Shattered Lake.


    He had strong symptoms of paranoia and auditory hallucinations.


    Although nobody cared much, Harvey often talked with Alice. The reason Harvey could talk so normally and naturally with them was purely because he had endless topics to discuss when alone with Alice.


    When Ashe asionally visited him, he could hear Harvey��sughter from outside the door. It wasn��t the creepy, sinisterugh of a viin, but a bright and heartyugh that would make one envision a handsome ck-skinned guy with blonde curly hair in beach shorts.


    It was truly terrifying, and Ashe was almost scared into running away.


    He was sure that everyone had probably used the Gospel Book to ask, ��Can Alice talk to Harvey?�� and received an answer that sent shivers down their spines.


    However, since Harvey could lock his madness within his coffin, nobody paid it any mind. Igor and Ashe both left him alone��Igor because he didn��t care, and Ashe because he couldn��t do anything about it.


    Therefore, Harvey might be able to create a legion, a force, or even a cult, but he could never create a family. Love and Family were the antitheses of Archibald Harvey.


    Harvey also thought so, which is why he said he was implicated by Ashe��it wasn��t just a joke. He strongly suspected that Ashe��s pheromones during his heat had somehow clung to him.


    At this moment, Banjeet pulled out a bunch of emergency biscuits from his suitcase, allowing them to enjoy a midnight snack while reviewing the ranking list.


    After they finished reading the characteristics of the Blood Corpse King n, their first reaction was��Harvey is finally going to make aeback!


    ��Bloodthirsty Aura: All living creatures within the aura are constantly tormented by reverse blood flow, sometimes even causing them to willingly rupture their blood vessels to converge on the Blood Corpse King, healing its injuries.��


    ��Werewolf Giant Corpse Mutation: The Blood Corpse King can transform into a werewolf, greatly increasing its attack speed and movement speed.��


    ��Immortality: The Blood Corpse King can consume the souls within its body to heal itself; its skin is tough and immortal, immune to most damage.��


    ��Tombstone Soul Lock: The Blood Corpse King can create a giant tombstone. Within the tombstone��s range, all corpses can randomly transform into mist spirits, mech-spirits, soul reapers, shadow spirits, Nether Knights, Dragon Liches, and other necromancy troop types. This effectsts until the tombstone copses.��


    ��Immunity to Miracle Weaving: Immune to the negative effects of miracle weaving.��


    Each of these five characteristics was extremely practical, andbined with the enormous body of the Blood Corpse King, it was essentially a legendary sorcerer-level war machine!


    Based on the previous rewards, Harvey should be able to obtain an item that allows him to freely transform into a Blood Corpse King, meaning Harvey could already be considered a legendarybatant!


    The Gospel Book continued to update. However, instead of updating Harvey��s rewards, it inexplicably yed some footage first.


    ��Is this Belldate��s true tomb? As a sorcerer, he took all his legacies into the grave. That��s rather stingy��he could have left something for his family.��


    ��Do not project your weak thoughts onto the mind of a necromancer. His descendants couldn��t even find his true tomb; what right do they have to inherit an Angel��s legacy? Still, they at least provided a clue to this legacy. In return, I��ll ensure the Belldate family finds eternal rest.��


    ��I bet the Belldate family will be moved to tears when they hear about your ��reward.����


    In the footage, two individuals walked through a grand and solemn golden corridor. On either side stood towering silver knight statues, each several meters high, resembling massive tombstones or fanatical disciples in pilgrimage. The golden floor was adorned with intricate patterns, which, upon closer inspection, were all bone arrangements, both sacred and eerie, both radiant and sinister.


    ��An Angel!?��


    Annan stared at the Gospel Book in shock. Lise took the opportunity to escape and burrowed back into Ashe��s arms, curiously asking, ��An angel? Like the ones in fairy tales?��


    Ashe, Igor, and Harvey also looked over curiously. Annan cast aplex nce at Harvey and said, ��Not the fairy tale kind�� I don��t know much either, but the Dn Family had a legendary sorcerer ancestor who mentioned Angels in his writings.��


    ��The Gospel Book��s information on sorcerers goes up to the four wings legend. Beyond that, there��s nothing. Even if you know the term ��Angel,�� the Gospel Book will only show you a bunch of fairy tales. If you search for Five Wings, the Gospel Book won��t respond at all.��


    ��And Angels are beings beyond legends, just below the Divine Sovereign. They are those who havepletely transcended the mortal realm, one step away from the Divine Sovereign, having sessfully formed the fifth wing��demigod sorcerers!��


    ��Angel, originally meaning messenger of the Sovereign. This term is not a realm designation but a job title. However, just as three wings sorcerers aremonly called Sanctuary sorcerers because they often reside in Sanctuaries, demigod sorcerers are usually messengers of the Sovereign, thus the term Angel has be amon name for demigod sorcerers.��


    Demigod sorcerers!


    Five Wings Angels!


    Ashe held Lise, lost in thought, fantasizing about how demigod sorcerers could control the elements. Meanwhile, Igor and Harvey had no particr reaction; they simply nodded, absorbing the secrets.


    Their reactions were entirely normal. After all, they were only two-wings sorcerers at present, uncertain if they could even ascend to the three wings Sanctuary, not to mention the four wings legends. Although they had never seen a demigod sorcerer, there were four wings legendary sorcerers in the Blood Moon. These individuals were invariably significant figures they could never meet��either top researchers at the Institute or Cardinals in the Church��monsters in the societal hierarchy.


    Igor and Harvey were extremely pragmatic people. Their greatest hope was to reach the Sanctuary in their lifetime. Achieving legendary status and standing at the pinnacle of the mundane world was a fantasy they had abandoned since the day they became sorcerers and no longer needed sleep.


    As for the existence of Five Wings demigods, such beings were not even within their goals. They didn��t even dare to dream about it.


    After all, when normal people fantasize about winning the lottery, they might dream of winning a few million or a billion, but no one fantasizes about winning tens of trillions, right? Even the bank wouldn��t print suchrge numbers.


    Although Annan said it wasn��t a fairy tale, to them, it was no different from one.


    Wait a minute��


    Everyone looked at the Gospel Book��so these two were on their way to obtain an Angel��s legacy?


    A fairy tale unfolding before their eyes?


    Though it was a future that hadn��t yet urred, if they could discover even a fragment of a clue, couldn��t they inherit this treasure now!?

 Chapter 369: Infernal Education

    Chapter 369: Infernal Education


    ����Wow, quite the grand setup for just an angel.����


    ��At the end of the passageway was a resplendent underground pce. The fleeting murals seemed to depict myths from an unknown era, and upon closer inspection, the dazzling dome was made of massive golden bones, the remains of some mythological creature.��


    ��In the center of the pcey a colossal stone coffinrge enough for a giant. Neither of the two could reach the lid due to their height.��


    ����I remember Belldates are usually short,�� Ashe remarked. ��Although I know the Gospel broke reproductive istion long ago, can giants really have children with humans? The software might bepatible, but the hardware isn��t.����


    ��The cloaked man ignored Ashe, fixating on the stone coffin while his hands moved in unknown gestures. Soon, a massive dark green wraith rose from the coffin, with chains of nothingness extending from its body, binding it to the pce. It seemed both imprisoned by the pce and protected by it.��


    ��The wraith spoke, ��Are you the sorcerers who have passed my trials and are qualified to inherit my path of the Malicious Angel?����


    ��Ashe replied, ��It��s just him. I prefer the living over corpses.����


    ��The cloaked man responded, ��Great predecessor, Malicious Angel Belldate, I will inherit your glory and carry it forward. Entrust everything to me.����


    ��The wraith asked, ��To confirm your qualification, my legacy will invade your soul in an extremely brutal manner, potentially causing your soul to copse. Are you sure you want to inherit this path?������The cloaked man replied, ��I have never experienced soul copse. Bring it on.����


    ��The wraithughed heartily and entered the cloaked man��s body. The cloaked man shuddered as pitch-ck smoke emanated from him. The smoke solidified into monstrous beasts with hideous fangs, savagely tearing at the cloaked man��s soul.��


    ��The wraith continued, ��My path of the Malicious Angel is created by referencing the billions of malicious spirits in hell. Being bitten by these spirits is equivalent to experiencing hell firsthand. As the spirits devour you, you can directly absorb their knowledge. Open your mind and do not resist.����


    ��The cloaked man asked, ��So, this is what death feels like?����


    ��The wraith responded, ��Exactly. Just like a person who falls into hell after death and is stripped of all emotions, the Malicious Soul will devour the target��s soul, leaving only pure knowledge and memories, which I can then easily inherit. With the power of the Malicious Souls, I have in countless exotd Angels and plundered their lifelong wealth.����


    ��The cloaked man queried, ��So, my emotions are being eaten too?����


    ��The wraith confirmed, ��Yes, you should feel it by now. Your soul is being torn apart bit by bit, your emotions stripped away piece by piece. As the immense pain overwhelms your sanity, you be more and more alien to yourself�� If you can��t hold on, your soul will bepletely shattered!����


    ��The cloaked man��s body trembled, and he suddenly dropped to his knees, seemingly unable to bear it any longer. The ck mist monsters gradually devoured his body��first his fingers, then his arms, torso, internal organs, neck�� Eventually, the ck mist monsterspletely entangled the cloaked man, leaving only a human-shaped figure.��


    ��However, at that moment, the cloaked man let out a maniacalugh.��


    ����Ha ha ha, what a fool! You actually endured to the end, not knowing this was never an inheritance ritual but a Corrosion Ritual! All my earlier arrangements were just to filter out souls resilient enough to withstand the Corrosion Ritual! Now, I havepletely corroded his soul and sessfully reborn! I am finally free from hell!����


    ����And you,�� the ck mist cloaked man pointed at Ashe, ��will be the first Malicious Soul after my rebirth!����


    ����Wow, how terrifying,�� Ashe shrugged. ��Harvey, save me.����


    ��The ck mist cloaked man paused for a moment, and the next second, another voice emerged from his mouth, ��Indeed, the moment I saw your remnant soul emerge from the coffin, I knew there was something wrong with your so-called inheritance, Belldate.����


    ����A necromancer like you, who would rather struggle endlessly to cling to life, could never leave a true legacy. You don��t even dare to face death; you��re not a genuine necromancer.����


    ����How dare you!�� the ck mist figure snarled. ��Why are you still alive? Your emotions should have beenpletely devoured by the Malicious Souls, and your consciousness should have dissipated. How can you still resist?!����


    ��Harvey replied, ��Because I am a necromancer, and you are a dead soul.����


    ����Although I respect you, Malicious Angel, you are a relic from 900 years ago. You actually thought you could use necromantic Divine Interventions from 900 years ago against me. I don��t know whether you underestimate the passage of time or the entire Necromancy Sect.����


    ����Your necromantic Divine Interventions were indeed unparalleled in their time, but they have be outdated relics now. From the moment you said you would invade my soul, I began transforming my living body into a corpse prison, and yet you didn��t even notice.����


    ����You thought you could corrode my soul, not realizing you were willingly entering the coffin I prepared for you.����


    ����The dead should serve the living, not the other way around. Angel who should have fallen into hell 900 years ago, please rest in peace within my body.����


    ��The ck mist suddenly contracted into the cloak and then burst into dark green mes. The green mes did not ignite anything but eventually formed a pair of handcuffs that sped the cloaked man��s hands.��


    ����What��s the harvest?����


    ����Everything.�� Harvey ced his hand on the stone coffin. ��The most precious treasure is this.����


    ��The massive stone coffin suddenly dissipated into a plume of light smoke, which then coalesced into a gray-haired old butler in a ck suit standing behind Harvey. The figure appeared ethereal, with a gaunt face, dim eyes, and cracked skin.��


    ��Ashe eximed, ��Even after all these years, Belldate still managed to preserve a deity?����


    ����But only this one deity,�� Harvey corrected. ��If there were more, I couldn��t handle it. Even this one is a tremendous challenge; wielding a deity��s power with a mortal body is no simple task.����


    ����With this deity and the path of the Malicious Souls, we can finally advance our n.����


    ��Ashe raised an eyebrow. ��Are you sure about this? You can still back out now.����


    ��Harvey countered, ��If I back out now, would you let me off? You��ve invested so much in me, helped me through Belldate��s numerous trials. It��s not your style to not reim your investment with interest.����


    ��Ashe responded, ��Haha, now that you possess the Malicious Soul path of Angelic Heritage, I might not be able to defeat you.����


    ����Stop these pointless tests, Ashe Heath.�� Harvey strode back along the corridor, the hall crumbling inch by inch behind him. ��But you, don��t try to stop me at thest moment. I don��t want to fight you; you��re troublesome, and�� I really don��t want to.����


    ��Ashe queried, ��ording to our n, you need to mass-produce a legion of half-dead necromancers. I remember that��s the project you hate the most. Are you ready to break your bottom line and change your principles?����


    ��Harvey shook his head. ��No, I won��t break my bottom line, nor do I need to change my principles. The dead should serve the living, a belief I have never wavered from.����


    ����It��s because I love life that I joined your n. But to retaliate against this half-dead world, we can only be half-dead ourselves.����


    ����I won��t provide you with a legion of apathetic necromancers. The Necromancy Sect is not about creating death, but about ushering in new life. So, I will provide you with a group of necromancers who fight for survival, including myself��I will be their banner.����


    ��Harvey walked past Ashe and said, ��Let��s go. It��s time to burn the Kingdom of Gospel to ashes.����


    The footage ended.


    Everyone was slow to recover their senses.


    Countless questions bubbled in their minds like foam, and for a moment, no one knew which to ask first. Lise was the first to speak up: ��What is a deity? Is it like theke goddesses in fairy tales?��


    ��Don��t ask me, I don��t know either!��


    Annan touched her amethyst earring to Calm Mind, also overwhelmed by the flood of information. ��How could I know the details of a heritage treasure that even angels value����


    ��Oh, a deity is just an advanced form of a spirit.��


    Everyone looked at Ashe, who pointed to the Gospel Book. ��I just asked the Gospel Book, and it answered, ��There are countless Four-winged Spirits, but only one Five-winged deity.�� It seems that when a spirit condenses its fifth wing, it grows into an intelligent deity. The deity in the footage chose to follow Harvey of its own ord.��


    The Gospel Book actually answered such a question?


    While the others were merely surprised, Annan was astonished��after all, the Dn Family had tried for generations to extract more knowledge from the Gospel Book but had never unearthed secrets beyond the fifth wing. Could it be that the Dn Family��s inquiry method was wrong? Was Ashe just that lucky?


    However, everyone immediately epted this exnation.


    Not just because of the Gospel Book��s endorsement, but because numerous corroborative pieces of information flooded their minds!


    ��Speaking of which, the Beloved Church once mentioned that the Blood Moon Sovereign had countless deities under hismand���� Igor muttered. ��Back then, I wondered if the Blood Moon Sovereign feared the deities conspiring against him, or if there might be sect conflicts among the deities�� But if deities are the evolved forms of spirits, that makes sense.��


    ��The Divine Sovereign is not the lord of all gods, but the lord of deities,�� Annan pped her hands lightly, suddenly enlightened. ��So that��s what the ancient texts meant! I used to think it was just a redundant statement!��


    Lise looked down at her hand mirror, murmuring softly to herself, ��Deity incarnations����


    Ashe also looked down at Lise. ��Hmm? Did you notice a foreshadowing we missed before? Care to share?��


    ��No,�� Lise shook her head and pointed at the Gospel Book. ��Dad, it seems like you and Uncle Harvey made some pretty serious criminal derations in there. Are you sure you won��t get me into trouble?��


    Ashe was silent for a moment before he said, ��Lise, I��m going to teach you a secret.��


    ��Hmm? What secret?�� Lise blinked.


    ��Listen carefully. In my experience, the first thing you should do after entering prison is to find someone like your Aunt Bukin and beat them up. That way, you��ll smoothly integrate into prison life.��


    Lise was bbergasted. ��Pre-prison education?!��


    Igor lightly scoffed, ��If I hadn��t struck up a conversation with you back then����


    ��You��d still be in Shattered Lake Prison, enjoying the state��s steady meals.��


    Igor chuckled, ��Yes, you��re right. How could the steady meals of Shattered Lakepare to the makeshift biscuits we eat while being on the run and enemies of the world with you?��


    Ashe kept nodding, wearing a ��you��re wee�� expression, but Igor didn��t pay any heed to his teasing. The Con Artist munched on his biscuits, staring at the Gospel Book��s screen, his brows furrowed with an inexplicable worry.


    Suddenly, Banjeet spoke up, ��Although this footage will make our reputation in the Kingdom of Gospel plummet to rock bottom, it��s not necessarily all bad.��


    Annan��s eyes sparkled, ��You mean����


    ��The Future Ranking hasn��t announced Harvey��s reward yet,�� Igor said calmly. ��Harvey��s reward must be in this footage, which means����


    Everyone looked at the Gospel Book, their eyes full of eager anticipation.


    Could it be that the Gospel will reward Harvey with a deity?!

 Chapter 370: Ghost King Shackles

    Chapter 370: Ghost King Shackles


    ��Is it�� a deity!?��


    While the murderers who ughtered the innocent hid in the tunnels to check the Ranking, countless people outside were also concerned about their fate.


    Meph, one of the ten greatest cities in the Gospel.


    Like Azura, Meph hadpleted the expansion of its city on the second level, with Inverted Skyscrapers standing tall. However, unlike other cities, the space above Meph��s second level was not a public area but a Private Garden owned by a Family.


    A single family owned nearly 500,000 hectares of privatend!


    With the power of a Miracle, this Private Garden simultaneously housed forests, pools, winter snow,va, graveyards, seas of clouds, and even hellish environments. The most outrageous creation was the ��Sea of Knowledge of Meph����a sea area in the center of the garden shrouded in white mist, where de Fish Dragons and other knowledge creatures were genuinely bred. However, these knowledge creatures did not drop loot when killed and would disappear immediately upon leaving the white mist area, making them purely ornamental toys.


    Maintaining the operation of the Private Garden alone required eighty thousand servants, yet the number of family members living in this garden could be counted on one hand.


    In the main residence at the center of the estate, which offered a panoramic view of the entire garden, the young girl Yvareny on her bed in her pajamas, her legs swinging back and forth. She kept one eye open, closely watching the Gospel Book, her small mouth pressed into a serious line.


    If one were unaware, it might be excusable, but knowing the enormous information revealed by this footage made it difficult for many to remain calm.Yvaren was no exception. Even though her family possessed the wealth of an entire city, they were mere dust before the legendary deities. ording to the records left by her ancestors, deities and spirits were entirely different entities. If spirits embodied ��technique,�� then deities were the manifestation of ��Truth.��


    Each deity possessed the great power to twist reality, overturnws, and rewrite physical parameters. They could even be the naturalws themselves, with their injuries causing natural disasters and their destruction leading to turmoil in reality!


    The power of a deity far exceeded the control of a legendary sorcerer, and a mortal soul could not possibly contain the authority of a deity!


    Therefore, only those whose life forms had evolved to a higher level, who had sessfully ignited the divine fire of their souls, and who had ascended to the highest realms of the Virtual Realm as Angels or even Divine Sovereigns, were qualified tomand deities and wield Truth!


    Watching the Future Ranking list about to announce its rewards, Yvaren was extremely nervous.


    If the Gospel Book truly awarded that ��deity�� to Archibald Harvey, Yvaren was sure that all of Gospel would abandon the pursuit of Harvey and hispanions. The Red Hats wouldy down their banners, and even the Royal Family would retract the wanted notice!


    Ordinary people might think that deities are not so extraordinary, believing that with enough guns and enough people, even gods could be killed. This notion was especially strong among sorcerers-in the most professional and advanced sorcerer discussion group within the Gospel��s veil, named the [Omniscient Weaver��s Murder Association].


    This was quite normal, after all. Under the glory of the Gospel, mortals had no chance to witness the power of Divine Intervention, and sorcerers could not grasp the gap between themselves and a Divine Sovereign. Even legendary sorcerers might underestimate a Divine Sovereign.


    In their eyes, if they could destroy a city, then no matter how powerful, a Divine Sovereign could only destroy a Kingdom, right?


    Only sorcerers within Families with Angelic Heritage understood that the ascension of life forms brought not a quantitative change but a qualitative one. The most powerful Miracle of a legendary sorcerer could never break through an Angel��s protection, while even the weakest Divine Intervention from an Angel could easily crush a legendary sorcerer��s dignity.


    To put it in a metaphor, a legendary sorcerer was like a character within a painting, able to attack enemies with various paints and solvents; whereas an Angel was already outside the painting, able to tear the entire canvas with a mere gesture.


    The wraith in the footage was not an Angel, but merely the remnants of an Angel��s embers, possessing perhaps less than one ten-thousandth of its former strength. Yet even so, the wraith��s methods far surpassed any Miracle, and an ordinary legendary sorcerer could not withstand the wraith��s encroachment and invasion.


    It was only because Harvey happened to be a necromancer, possessing means to counter the wraith, that he could perform such an Epic and spectacr counter-kill,pletely burying the ancient Angel��s hope of resurrection.


    Once Harvey possessed a deity, even if he could only wield one percent of its power, it would be enough to overturn the entire Kingdom of Gospel. If that deity had defensive capabilities, no legendary sorcerer could pierce through his defenses. Gunshots, cannon fire, and even area-of-effect attacks would merely tickle him.


    If that deity had offensive might, then no matter how many Miracles a legendary sorcerer cast upon themselves, it would be like addingyers of paper��no matter how sturdy the high walls, they would crumble like a house of cards.


    Unless one knew all the effects and weaknesses of the deity, no one would dare to offend someone with near-divinebat power.


    Perhaps in response to the countless prayers, the Gospel Book finally updated:


    ��Archibald Harvey has been awarded the ��Ghost King Shackles��.��


    ��Ghost King Shackles: Allows the sorcerer to freely transform among ten necromancy troop types including mist spirits, Mech-spirits, Soul Reaping, Shadow Spirits�� Nether Knights, Dragon Liches, and Blood Corpse Kings. However, the sorcerer must fully master the knowledge of each new necromancy troop type in sequence to unlock the next. The first unlocked troop type: mist spirit.��


    Phew.


    Yvaren could almost hear the entire Kingdom of Gospel breathe a sigh of relief.


    As long as it wasn��t a deity, everyone could ept it, especially since this reward wasn��t particrly valuable. In Yvaren��s eyes, aside from the Nether Knight, Dragon Lich, and Blood Corpse King, the earlier necromancy troop types, though each unique, were at most two-wings in strength and posed little threat to three-wing sorcerers.


    This meant that for a long time, this necromancer attempting to bury the entire Kingdom of Gospel would not surpass the power of a Sanctuary sorcerer.


    In hindsight, it made sense that Gospel would not award a deity. Though the exact reason was unknown, the ancestors�� records were clear: each deity was unique. As long as the Stone Coffin Deity within the path of the Malicious Soul existed, no matter how powerful Gospel was, it couldn��t create a second Stone Coffin Deity.


    However, Yvaren thought that other Families might lose sleep over this.


    If Gospel had directly awarded a deity, it would be clear that everyone should enjoy the few remaining years they had.


    If Gospel had awarded the Blood Corpse King, most would likelyy down their banners, as the Blood Corpse King, based on avable data, was a legendary-level power.


    Although it wasn��t impossible to besiege a legend, the cost was so high that no single Family could bear it alone. The financial Families, adept at internal conflict but inept in external battles, would certainly watch from the sidelines, leaving the Royal Family and the Red Hats to solve this problem.


    However, the Gospel Book awarded ��a Blood Corpse King that takes a long time to unlock,�� making the financial Families feel they had a significant advantage.


    The Weaving Festival doesn��t lie. Capturing Harvey equates to obtaining the key to inheriting Angelic Heritage��who could resist such a temptation?


    But if you fail to capture Harvey and instead make a mortal enemy of him, congrattions, you��ve secured a ce among the ten major Families of the next fifty years.


    If you want to take action, you can��t sleep.


    If you don��t want to take action, you can��t sleep.


    Hearing that others have taken action, you can��t sleep.


    Finally deciding to take action, you��ll never sleep again.


    However�� Yvaren sighed. Other Families might have the luxury of hesitation and wavering, but her Family had only one choice from the beginning.


    ��Allow me to y an old role tonight, allow me to happily reenact the story��s beautiful protagonist~��


    Themunication ring rang, and the number indicated it was a call from Bluebeard headquarters.


    Yvaren found it strange and answered, ��What��s going on?��


    ��Six people suddenly appeared in Abyssal Passage Area Three,�� came the quick reply. ��No movement trajectory, they must havee through an Abyssal Passage.��


    ��Abyssal Passage? At this time?��


    If she hadn��t gone down the Abyss recently for training, Yvaren might not have recalled the mechanics of the Abyssal Passage.


    Normal people wouldn��t consider the Abyssal Passage as a travel option. The Abyss throughout Gospel was unstable, with Vamora being the only Abyss with unchanging terrain.


    Vamora�� Abyssal Passage�� at this time��


    Yvaren opened the Gospel Book to check Vamora��s situation and immediately understood the origin of these little mice.


    ��Suppress this news, block all information channels to the Red Hats, and have Bluebeard gather to seal off the Abyss!��

 Chapter 371: Are You Looking for Trouble?

    Chapter 371: Are You Looking for Trouble?


    In the Abyss, Harvey nced at the handcuffs on his wrists and looked at Ashe with an extremely resentful expression.


    Lise said affectionately, ��Look, this is what happens when you get involved with Ashe.�� Though she didn��t say a word, everyone could understand Harvey��s frustration.


    Ashe pulled at Lise��s face, ��Stop narrating nonsense!��


    Igor smiled faintly, ��Harvey, you should think from another perspective. The Gospel Book already knows the crimes you willmit in the future, but it didn��t kill you on the spot. You��re already way ahead. Now it��s even rewarding you; you should be grateful to the Gospel Book.��


    Ashe echoed, ��Yeah, yeah, look, these handcuffs don��t even have a chain between them. The Gospel Book is already showing you leniency. You should reflect on yourself and be a better person.��


    Harvey��s handcuffs had no connecting chain, so they didn��t count as restraining tools. Instead, they looked more like yful essories. However, paired with his dark skin, they also resembled ve shackles.


    The necromancer merely grumbled a bit. Someone like him, who liked to carry a coffin around, had an aesthetic as tough as marble and naturally wouldn��t care about the appearance enhancement brought by the handcuffs.


    After a brief test, Harvey transformed into a mist spirit and began to il around joyfully as if he��d gotten a new toy. He couldn��t help but float over to the coffin, excitedly tapping on the lid, ��Alice, this form is really suitable for you. Once I figure out how to master this form, I��ll arrange it for you immediately. Hmm? You say you don��t like white mist? Then I��ll add a bit of variation and turn you into blue mist����


    Watching Harvey have an intense conversation with the coffin, everyone felt their sanity was being forced through a reality check.��Alright,�� Annan closed the Gospel Book, ��we need to leave. We must find a safe ce to rest quickly��Ashe��s injuries can��t be dyed any longer.��


    ��Please follow me,�� Banjeet said, ��I��ve already mapped out the route to leave this Abyss.��


    The Funeral group walked along the Abyssal Passage. When Harvey finally finished his whispered conversation with Alice, Ashe asked, ��So, did you change your mind, or were you lying?��


    Harvey nced at Ashe and then at Igor, ��Are you asking me? Not Igor?��


    Compared to the necromancer, it was obvious that the Con Artist was more associated with words like ��changing one��s mind�� and ��lying.��


    ��In the video footage, ��you�� said that you create arge number of half-dead necromantic creatures because you love life deeply,�� Ashe said. ��But just now, you swore that you would nevermit such sphemous acts against life. So, either the future you changed your mind, thinking that turning the living into undead isn��t sphemy, or the current you is lying and doesn��t actually hold this principle in your heart.��


    ��After all, the Weaving Festival doesn��t fabricate from nothing. It only predicts based on your existing behavior.��


    Annan and Lise stared intently at Ashe, as if to ask, ��So, what��s the deal with you and Qenna?��


    Ashe wasn��t embarrassed at all, and he had no reason to be. He and Qenna hadn��t had any intimate interactions. At most, Qenna had licked his face�� but there was blood on his face at the time, and he was Annan��s fianc��. Qenna��s level of contact with him was quite normal!


    Harvey pondered for a moment and then shook his head, ��I didn��t lie, and the future me couldn��t have changed my mind.��


    ��As long as I continue to practice necromancy, I will uphold the boundary between life and death. Necromancers believe that life and death are equally important, and this isn��t an empty slogan or some vague professional ethics.��


    ��After all, is there a difference between a corpse and a hunk of rotten meat? Why can corpses be turned into undead while rotten meat can only decay?��


    ��Because a corpse bears the marks of a person��s life.��


    ��Because the living experience joy and sorrow, endure hardships, and gain spiritual insights. After they die, most of these marks fall into the Abyss with their souls, but a small part remains in their physical bodies. What necromancers care about isn��t the flesh itself, but the information on the flesh and the time, mental energy, and various spellcasting powers embedded within it.��


    ��It is precisely because they tried so hard to live that their corpses can bloom into a more brilliant new life in the hands of us necromancers, transforming into the power of the living.��


    ��Think about it, any organization or Kingdom encourages its members to strive and fight hard, to live their lives to the fullest. Although the members will eventually die, their lifelong efforts transform into the organization��s strength and create a better life for the next generation�� Isn��t this just like the Necromancy Sect?��


    ��It��s not just organizations or Kingdoms; the same applies to this world. We sorcerers will eventually face death and wash away all emotions in the Abyss, but we will leave behind pure memories and realms in the Virtual Realm, continuously thickening its depth and bing the power for future living beings�� Isn��t this also like the Necromancy Sect?��


    ��To me, the Virtual Realm is the mightiest necromancer, and the rules of societal operation are quintessentially those of the Necromancy Sect.��


    ��Would a farmer harvest crops before they are ripe? Would a chef serve half-cooked dishes to guests? Would a Kingdom stifle the aspirations of its youth?�� Harvey spread his hands and said, ��With that in mind, you should understand�� Why are you all looking at me like that?��


    Harvey felt a bit thirsty from speaking and turned to see everyone had stopped in their tracks, staring at him as if watching a cockroach transform into a jewel beetle.


    After a moment, Annan suddenly asked, ��What level of power does the Harvey in the footage possess?��


    Banjeet replied, ��Definitely not an Angel, but to wield the power of a Five Wings deity as a mortal, if not a legend, he must at least be in the Sanctuary.��


    ��Sanctuary or legend���� Annan exhaled. ��Other aspects might be misjudgments by the Weaving Festival, but in this regard, its judgment is probably urate.��


    Their shock was understandable. As fellow sorcerers, they could clearly see Harvey��s current realm. If their Spellcasting Sect was still in the ��spell�� stage, then Harvey had subtly touched the edge of ��Truth.��


    Harvey wasn��t treating necromancy as a mere tool but as a methodology to aid his understanding of the world and himself. In fact, every spellcasting sect is a path for sorcerers to explore the world outwardly and to seek themselves inwardly.


    Even Ashe, the husky mixing in with the wolf pack of sorcerers, could vaguely sense this.


    For example, with the Swordsmanship Sect and the sword Princess, it��s hard to tell whether her personality made her excel in the Swordsmanship Sect, or if the sect influenced her personality. But the result is that the sword Princess bes increasingly sharp and decisive. After spending a lot of time with her, Ashe always feels that if he ever wronged her, she would stab him with her long sword without a second thought.


    But most sorcerers find it difficult to realize this point, or even if they do, they can��tpensate for it. Unless you reach a high enough realm, you can��t see the vast scenery and can only guess a little based on others�� descriptions.


    However, this doesn��t prevent Annan and the others from recognizing the grandeur in Harvey��s perspective. Because they can see glimpses of beauty themselves, they know that Harvey��s words about magnificence are not empty.


    Now, the only things that stand in the way of Harvey bing stronger are time, reality, and the Virtual Realm. For him, there are no longer any bottlenecks in the realm of spellcasting.


    Therefore, Harvey can be sure that he won��t change his mind. The Necromancy Sect is almost like a political belief to him��if loyalty isn��t absolute, then it��s absolutely disloyal. If he were to change his mind, it would mean he found a more suitable Spellcasting Sect (methodology), and he would definitely abandon the Necromancy Sect.


    ��Could it be that the Gospel predicted it wrong?�� Ashe muttered.


    ��Is it possible,�� Lise, who was holding Ashe��s hand, said, ��that Uncle Harvey was actually forced into it?��


    ��Hmm?��


    ��Like the question Dad asked me before: I have the lever to change the train tracks. If the train continues, it will run over five people, but if I change the track, it will only run over one person����


    Annan pondered, ��So, no matter what you choose, it��s a bad oue, and you can only choose the lesser evil?��


    Banjeet looked at Ashe, ��Is this what you usually discuss with Lise?��


    Although his educational ability was being questioned, Ashe remained calm, ��Compared to my question, Lise��s answer is actually more brilliant. She said she values fairness the most. Running over five people is unfair to the five, running over one person is unfair to the one, so running over everyone would be fair. Therefore, we should connect the two tracks.��


    The young butler could only respond with high emotional intelligence, ��The student surpasses the master����


    ��Why don��t you guys just admit it? Are you really father and daughter?�� Annan nced at them, ��I won��t me you for keeping it a secret.��


    ��So, it��s highly likely that something will happen in the future that even Harvey can��t stand, which is why the Gospel thinks Harvey would rather create a necromancer Family to take revenge on society,�� Ashe spected. ��Something so disgusting that even a necromancer can��t stand it�� Harvey, do you have any idea what it could be?��


    Harvey thought for a moment. ��For example�� if the Gospel Kingdom enforces mandatory cremation for everyone? Such a wasteful practice would indeed infuriate me.��


    ��Damn, that��s so you.��


    However, they weren��t too concerned about the idea that ��Harvey will be the source of all evil.�� Firstly, they knew this was the result of deceiving the Gospel, and secondly, it didn��t really concern them��Harvey wasn��t going to turn them into necromantic beings.


    Ashe and the others didn��t count, as they weren��t even locals. As for Annan and Banjeet�� when Annan had Ashe in a headlock earlier, she was only questioning why he was so close to Qenna. She had noints about Harvey turning Senhaeser into a mist spirit.


    Compared to Harvey��s necromancy ns, they were actually more concerned about what future events could be so abhorrent that even a necromancer couldn��t tolerate them.


    Additionally, one of the Blood Corpse King��s traits is ��Immunity to Miracle Weaving,�� which led Ashe to some peculiar spections.


    Watching Annan and the others discussing ahead, Ashe suddenly noticed that the Con Artist at the back of the group had been silently walking with his head down, not offering any opinions. He thought for a moment and then patted Lise on the back. ��Go find your sister Annan. Make sure to hold her hand tight. If you fall into the Abyss, I won��te looking for you.��


    ��Tch,�� Lise pouted and went to grab Annan��s sleeve. ��Auntie����


    ��Call me sister,�� Annan flicked Lise��s forehead.


    Ashe slowed his pace to walk alongside Igor. Suddenly, he said, ��I think you might be nning to run away.��


    ��Hmm?�� Igor gave him a look that asked, ��What nonsense are you talking about?��


    ��The Gospel probably thinks you��ll run off to another Kingdom in the future, breakingws and causing chaos, which is why you didn��t appear in the footage,�� Ashe said. ��And didn��t you say you wanted to explore ruins when you have money? Harvey and I aren��t interested in traveling, so it��s natural for us to part ways.��


    Igor nced at him but remained silent.


    ��The other ranking lists haven��t been announced yet, so there might be a Ruins Exploration Ranking, a Conspiracy Ranking, or even a Mud House Gigolo Ranking. Then we can see your true colors����


    Igor still didn��t respond.


    ��Actually, the most likely scenario is that some richdy took you in, so you no longer need poor friends like us�� You get what I mean, right?��


    Igor finally nodded. ��I get it. You��re looking for trouble, aren��t you?��


    ��Hmm?�� Ashe scratched his head. ��I��m saying you don��t need to worry about why you didn��t show up in the Weaving Festival rankings. Even if your name appears in the next ranking list, it��s actually a good thing that you didn��t appear. Look at us; each of us has been framed and disgraced by the Gospel. You should be happy to be the Fish that Escaped the Net.��


    So far, Annan, Ashe, and Harvey had all appeared in the rankings.


    Among those who hadn��t appeared, Banjeet was already over sixty years old, so it was normal for him not to show up fifty yearster. Lise was only about ten years old now, and as the saying goes, girls aren��t meant to stay with the family forever. It��s only natural that she wouldn��t be with Ashe when she grows up.


    The only one who should have appeared but hadn��t was Igor. There was no trace of him in any of the ranking lists so far.


    If it was previously suspected that Ashe and Annan might have had a romantic rtionship during their private meetings, there was no reason for Ashe and Harvey to act together in pairs, right? Yet, only Ashe and Harvey appeared, and Igor was nowhere to be seen.


    Although no one said it out loud, everyone thought of one possibility��


    ��Do you think I��m worried about dying?��


    Ashe blinked. ��Why else would you be moping around and not saying anything? Hey, being afraid of death isn��t something to be ashamed of. I won��t make fun of you for it.�� He said, patting Igor on the shoulder.


    ��Hah, how could I possibly���� Igor paused, then suddenlyughed. ��Okay, maybe I��m a little worried, but seeing you makes me realize I��m overthinking it.��


    ��Why?��


    ��Don��t you remember our Pact? You still owe me a wish. If I��m really facing a life-and-death crisis, I��ll definitely make you die for me first.��


    Igor brushed Ashe��s hand away. ��You better pray every night that nothing happens to me, or you��ll be in trouble too.��


    Ashe suddenly remembered. ����Well, maybe not. What if you��re not around when you die?��


    ��Hmm, that��s indeed a problem. Look here.��


    Igor snapped his fingers in front of Ashe��s eyes and said, ��There, I��ve given you a psychological suggestion. If I die and my wish hasn��t been used, this suggestion will activate and use the wish on my behalf.��


    Ashe rubbed his eyes continuously, as if trying to rub out the psychological suggestion like eye gunk. ��W-what suggestion?��


    ��It��s simple. This suggestion will alter your memory, erasing all unnecessary ones.��


    ��What are unnecessary memories?��


    ��Memories unrted to me,�� Igor said with a smirk. ��This way, your memory will only contain me, and you��ll mistakenly think I��m your most importantpanion. You��ll spend your whole life trying to find a way to bring me back from hell.��


    ��That��s actually possible!�� Ashe was shocked but quickly shook his head. ��Wait a minute, even if I only have memories of you left, that doesn��t mean I��ll want to resurrect you! Why do you think I would do that?��


    Igor was taken aback.


    Then the Con Artistughed. ��I��m just messing with you. There��s no such convenient psychological suggestion in this world�� Even if there were, it couldn��t be cast by a two-wings sorcerer. I wasn��t talking because I was thinking about what to do in the future. After all, you and Harvey have caused such a big mess; even if I don��t want to, I��ll definitely get dragged into it.��


    ��R-really no suggestion?�� Ashe was sweating on his forehead.


    ��I think whether I say there is or isn��t, you won��t believe me. How about this, I��ll use up the wish right now to alter your memory. Then you won��t suspect anything����


    ��Then I won��t disturb your thinking!��

 Chapter 372: Mephila of Belldate

    Chapter 372: Meph of Belldate


    Ashe quickened his pace but suddenly remembered something and stepped back towards Igor.


    In a low voice, he said, ��By the way, don��t me Lise. It��s not her fault.��


    Igor raised an eyebrow. Before he could retort, Ashe went over and picked up Lise.


    Lise, looking bewildered, nced at Igor and then at Ashe. She asked, ��Dad, are you going to use me as an attackpanion?�� As she spoke, she raised her tiny fists.


    ��This isn��t that kind of game,�� Ashe said. ��Come on, use your gaze attack on Aunt Bukin!��


    Lise widened her cute eyes at Igor, but it had no effect.


    Igor stared coldly at Lise, which was highly effective.


    Lise buried her head in Ashe��s arms, trembling. Ashe eagerly asked, ��How was it?��


    ��Are you asking how effective your provocation is? Excellent.����Huh!? Didn��t you feel your heart melt? Every time Lise acts up, as soon as she looks at me like that, I can��t even bring myself to take out the belt����


    ��Don��t assume everyone��s heart is as soft as ice cream like yours.��


    ��Wait, Lise has many other talents. Let me have her perform another one����


    ��Enough.��


    Igor reached out and took Lise, carrying her on his back. Lise instantly stiffened, her limbs going limp, not daring to misbehave. ��I��ll carry her.��


    Ashe sighed in relief and waved his hand. ��Lise, be good and don��t cause trouble for Aunt Bukin!��


    ��Dad, Daddy���� Lise��s voice trembled as she sought help. However, one look from Igor made her obediently close her mouth. Shey on his back, shivering��strangely enough, whether it was her Bewitcher Lineage or her shampoo, she actually smelled quite nice.


    After walking for a while, the group from the funeral finally saw a staircase leading upwards. Banjeet asked, ��Youngdy, should we camp here or��?��


    ��Let��s find a short-term rental using other people��s identities as soon as possible,�� Annan said. ��We��re too tired now. We need a good rest.��


    Suddenly, a voice came from above the passage: ��My house is big. Why don��t youe rest at my ce?��


    Snap!


    Suddenly, a hidden door opened in the stairway passage, revealing several gun sorcerers in gray bulletproof vests blocking the top of the stairs, assault guns aimed at the Funeral group.


    Annan and the others instinctively retreated, but a group of gun sorcerers also appeared at the rear of the passage, their cold steel gun barrels locking onto their flesh and blood.


    In an instant, their joyful state of eating cookies and singing songs turned into a desperate situation with no room to maneuver, surrounded from all sides!


    Ashe nced at the ambushers. Besides their bulletproof vests and guns, the most noticeable feature was the transparent protective masks they wore. Inside the masks, two tubes connected their nostrils topressed bottles on their backs, filled with a blue misty liquid, making them look like they had two blue beards.


    Gospel Kingdom, Abyss Suppression Unit, Bluebeard!


    As one of the two major violent groups in the Gospel Kingdom, Ashe was familiar with the formation of Bluebeard and Red Hat. Bluebeard got its name because the Abyss was once filled with mental monsters that could affect sanity. The narrow and dark environment of the Abyss required the suppression sorcerers to constantly inhale ��Cooling Blue Fluid�� to suppress excess emotions and relieve mental stress. The most effective way to inhale the fluid was through nasal tubes, which over time led to the name Bluebeard.


    In modern times, while Bluebeard could easily exterminate the monsters on the firstyer of the Abyss, mental monsters still frequently emerged, posing a risk of mental copse. Thus, the Bluebeard equipment had been preserved as a material cultural heritage.


    But for Ashe and the others, the most important aspect of Bluebeard wasn��t their appearance orbat power-it was that they were a private armed force!


    ��Annan, long time no see.��


    Tap.


    Tap.


    Clear footsteps echoed from above, and everyone saw a blue-haired girl slowly descending. Her long blue hair reached her waist, and she wore a ck cape over a tinum sleeveless dress. Her arms were covered with ck gloves, and her legs were d in tinum boots. She exuded a noble and pure charm, looking like an angeling to aid the Abyss.


    The most striking feature was her left eye, which was open and had a purple-blue pupil that seemed to draw in one��s gaze; her right eye was closed, with a ck mark resembling an eye tattooed on the eyelid, eerie enough to warrant a second look.


    Annan let out a long sigh. ��So it is you, Yvaren����


    Ashe and the others breathed a sigh of relief��turns out, she was an old friend of the youngdy. What a scare.


    ��Sote at night, why are you all visiting my house?�� Yvaren asked.


    Annan didn��t hide anything. ��I came specifically through the Abyssal Passage to get here��I was nning to ask for your help.��


    nning?


    Ashe and the others sensed something amiss. The blue-haired girl nodded. ��I figured as much. Annan, you really found the right person this time��capture them!��


    The Bluebeards swarmed in, subduing everyone. Ashe and the others didn��t resist. The terrain was terrible, and unlike the Red Hats, the Bluebeards�� ie came from consortia, so they didn��t have to worry about the Gospel��s opinion of them��they really would shoot without hesitation.


    More importantly, Annan and her group had just survived a life-and-death struggle.


    Ashe��s stomach was in shambles, his arm was useless; Annan, Banjeet, and Igor were out of spellforce; the only one stillbat-capable was Harvey, which is why most of the gun barrels were aimed at him and his coffin.


    Harvey��s mist spirit might be immune to physical damage, but gun sorcerers didn��t rely solely on physical attacks.


    Ashe and the othersplied with the restraints, having grown ustomed to such plot events��after all, it happened every ten days. Ashe now just wanted a ��skip�� button to fast-forward through the scene.


    Ashe looked at Annan with resentment, only to find her looking back at him the same way.


    ��Youngdy, didn��t you n everything out before you acted?�� Ashe shook the spellforce lock on his wrist. ��Was this part of your n too?��


    Annan replied, frustrated, ��ns can��t keep up with changes.��


    ��Changes?��


    Ashe looked up to see the blue-haired girl squatting in front of him.


    ��You��re not that tall yourself,�� she said, displeased. ��Why are you acting all smug?��


    Ashe blinked. ����I, I��m not acting smug.��


    The blue-haired girl then walked over to Harvey and examined him for a moment. ��Your skin is so dark. Why is that? Do you like dissecting corpses outdoors?��


    ��When I couldn��t afford to buy corpses, I worked at construction sites to earn money,�� Harvey replied.


    For some reason, Ashe felt a bad premonition. He exchanged a nce with Igor, and he could see the same intense unease in the Con Artist��s eyes.


    ��Alright, dear guests, though it��s a bitte, allow me to introduce myself.��


    ��My name is Yvaren Belldate, heir to the Belldate Consortium, ranked first on the Meph Beauty Ranking, third on the National Outstanding Youth Ranking, and first on the Meph Charity Ranking�� My personal resume is extensive; you can look it up at your leisure when you go back.��


    Belldate��


    Belldate!?


    ��Yes, that��s right. That Belldate.��


    Yvaren seemed to hear their inner thoughts, or perhaps their shock was inly written on their faces. She winked with her left eye. ��Yes, the ��bunch of dwarfs,�� ��unworthy of inheriting the ancestor��s legacy,�� ��deserving of eternal rest�� Belldate.��


    In the video, I didn��t say dwarfs, did I? Ashe only dared to grumble inwardly, not daring to voice hisints.


    Yvaren stood on her tiptoes and spun around, then bowed to the prisoners:


    ��Wee to Belldate��s Meph.��

 Chapter 373: A Day in the Life of the Sword Princess

    Chapter 373: A Day in the Life of the Sword Princess


    Stars Kingdom.


    ��How about you? Do you miss me? Do you miss me so much that you cry under the covers at night? Do you like me the way I like you?��


    ��You can show off my infatuation as a trophy to other girls, tell them how cheap and shameless I am, and then hold that girl and say, ��Thank goodness I met you.����


    ��Don��t worry, I won��t cry or make a scene, because I know����


    ��I��m no longer your exception.��


    Miracle: Blood Moon Blossoms!


    Countless threads sliced through the air, and blood bloomed like a curtain. The Red-Haired Sword Princess stood amidst the bloodied veil. Droplets of blood fell onto the girl��s face, sliding down like tears.


    ��Cut! Perfect!��


    The tense atmosphere on set instantly rxed. Sonya exhaled deeply and sat down on a folding chair to rest. Her assistant immediately came over to wipe off the stage blood from her face and handed her a ss of lemon water. The illusion sorcerers and earth sorcerers in the crew quickly started reshaping the set ording to the designs, the rumbling of shifting earth serving as the background music for the actors�� break.��Miss Therave, that was an excellent performance.�� The director approached, his six-eyed sses hiding his gaze, but his words were filled with praise. ��I initially thought that since you haven��t had formal acting training or much life experience, ying a role driven to madness by love would be challenging. But you got into character so quickly.��


    ��Although you still have some way to gopared to top performers, your acting will definitely impress the audience as a neer. You were the perfect choice for this role�� By the way, are you experiencing unrequited love? Your portrayal felt incredibly genuine.��


    ��Haha,�� Sonya gave a professional smile. ��Of course not. I don��t n on dating until I��ve graduated����


    Director: ��I really enjoy writing characters who fall into twisted love, but there aren��t many performers who can pull it off. So I was wondering if I could count on you for simr roles in the future����


    ��Actually, I have someone I��ve been pining for three years,�� Sonya said, instantly adopting a sorrowful and self-pitying tone. ��The reason I applied to Swordflower College and came to Gxia was in the hope that one day I could stand before him. But when we finally met again, he was already my best friend��s fianc������


    The director adjusted his six-eyed sses. ��Got it. I��ll make sure to call Miss Therave for auditions for simr roles in the future.��


    ��Thank you, Director~��


    The assistant was left dumbstruck��wait, was what Sonya just said true or not?


    ��But I really troubled you this time, wasting so much of your spellforce because of my sudden idea.��


    In the original script, Sonya��s character simply decapitated her former lover with a single stroke and then left with his head.


    However, the footage of Sonya defeating the alchemist Tida with a single sword strike during the Social Gathering Tournament had spread widely. Her swordsmanship miracle, Blood Moon Blossoms, had caught the attention of many. The director decided to modify the script on the fly, having her use Blood Moon Blossoms for the execution scene.


    Sonya was, of course, very pleased to have a chance to show off more. But to achieve the best filming effect, she had already shot the scene nine times, to the point where her spellforce was nearly depleted, leaving her feeling a bit dizzy.


    ��Oh, it��s no trouble at all. As long as it��s for crafting a better piece of work, it��s all worth it. Inparison, I��m more concerned about whether this scene can be faithfully presented on the holographic screen,�� Sonya said immediately. ��Because it��s a bit gory, and I remember this show is intended for all ages����


    ��Don��t worry about it,�� the director said casually. ��I��m the best at shooting bloody scenes in romance dramas. We can��t show everything, but just by disying the edges of the scene, we can let the audience imagine an even more spectacr image than what we actually filmed. And with such a beautifully twisted scene, I��ll use all my connections to make sure they don��t cut it.��


    ��Even if it does require significant editing, your close-up shots won��t be cut, don��t worry.��


    Sonya blinked. ��Oh, was I that obvious?��


    ��Not too obvious, but actors who don��t care about their screen time are as rare as cats that don��t knock over cups.��


    Just as if it had heard itself being mentioned, a small golden tabby cat poked its head out from under a fisherman��s hat. It was about the size of a palm, looking fluffy and plump. It lightly hopped into the director��s chest pocket, grabbed a gold coin from inside, and then returned to the hat.


    ��Ah!�� Sonya��s eyes lit up. ��Is that����


    ��Yes, that��s a gold-eating beast,�� the director said with a sigh. ��It doesn��t like to be touched or teased. Apart from eating gold coins, it just causes trouble. Cute, right? I got it in exchange for my frayed nerves. I think the Virtual Realm is targeting me specifically, gifting a creature that��s the least likely to be quiet to someone who needs tranquility to create.��


    Gold-eating beasts are native to the Time Continent but aren��t ssified as knowledge creatures. In the Stars Kingdom, they are listed as ��rare species.�� When a sorcerer encounters a rare species in the Virtual Realm, there��s a chance the rare species will attach to the sorcerer and be brought into reality by them.


    Currently, there��s no evidence to suggest that rare species provide any benefits to sorcerers. However, generally speaking, sorcerers favored by rare species share three major traits: �� They are at least two-wings sorcerers; �� They have a kind heart and can easily empathize with others; �� They possess a naive and simple mindset. In other words, those favored by rare species are��


    ��You don��t need to envy me,�� the director said. ��Miss Therave, you might encounter a gold-eating beast that clings to you in the Virtual Realm one day.��


    ��Haha, that��s impossible,�� Sonya waved her hand dismissively. ��I��m not of noble birth.��


    Being powerful, kind-hearted, and simple-minded��these are qualities only noble offspring are likely to fully possess. Ordinary people, no matter how capable, have to sacrifice one of these traits to survive. Under normal circumstances, ordinary people can��t meet all three criteria. Being powerful aside, thetter two qualities require careful nurturing and are beautiful attributes to maintain.


    ��Since I don��t have any more scenes today, I��ll head out,�� Sonya said.


    ��Thank you for your hard work today,�� the director replied. ��Are you heading back to school?��


    ��No, I��m going to Truth College to use their Time Training Room. I managed to book three hours of training time.��


    ��You��re so diligent!�� the assistant beside her said admiringly. ��You truly are a Swordflower��talented and hardworking. I can hardly even get myself to study most of the time�� But for you geniuses, training must be a lot of fun, right?��


    ��Well~,�� Sonya pretended to think, ��it��s not exactly fun. But I can clearly feel myself making progress bit by bit. It��s like ying a game where every now and then, I see ��Experience Points +5�� pop up above my head����


    ��Sigh, geniuses really do live in a different world from ordinary people,�� the assistant sighed. ��Miss Therave, it��s no wonder you��re so amazing.��


    ��I won��t keep you any longer,�� the director said, adjusting his six-eyed sses. ��Don��t push yourself too hard��I don��t just mean in acting.��


    Sonya blinked, but the director had already turned back to nning the next scene.


    Having a kind heart and caring for others�� truly enviable qualities.


    Sonya chuckled to herself as the assistant led her to the side to change clothes, then to find a makeup artist for a quick removal of her stage makeup. Since this scene needed to highlight the character��s devilish charm, her makeup wasn��t thick but was particrly intricate. In other words, it was a hassle. Her eyebrows, in particr, needed to be cleaned strand by strand.


    By the time Sonya left, the set had transformed into a forest scene, with the male and female leads filming a confrontation.


    As the most prolific film and TV drama production base in Gxia, these sets were highly versatile. With a bit of detail added by Earth sorcerers and illusion sorcerers, the set could be transformed into various real-world scenes. Not only did it look real on the Holographic Screen, but it was indistinguishable even in person��this was the power of Miracles.


    As for the distant scenery, it was even easier. Using tools like the Camera Eye, illusion sorcerers could project real-world distant scenes directly onto the set, blending reality and illusion seamlessly. Whether it was a forest or a snowyndscape, or even an underwaterva scene, the filming base had several Camera Eyes permanently stationed.


    It was only after arriving here that Sonya realized that the TV dramas she saw on the Holographic Screen were daily miracles woven into existence. Even if the crew members weren��t sorcerers, they had to master sorcerer tools. For instance, the six-eyed sses the director wore allowed him to watch six camera views simultaneously.


    Watching the male and female leads under the spotlight, Sonya left the film base by car.


    Since it was a half-hour drive to Gxia��s city center, Sonya kept herself busy by opening the Miracle wristband and reviewing the ��Social Gathering Tournament yer Information.��


    The Social Gathering Tournament between colleges had concluded, and the College League was about to officially begin. The academy had alreadypiled information on the seed yers that each college had sent to the tournament, detailing their performances.


    Under the profiles of some strong yers, Professor Trozan had even provided specific swordsmanship counter-strategies.


    Senior sister Leoni had once joked with her, ��The College League ends before it starts.�� While that was an exaggeration, the analysis indeed helped Sonya understand her strengths and weaknesses against different sect sorcerers. She could even estimate her ranking in the league��assuming she didn��t make significant progress or hide any trump cards before then.


    And this was just the analysis from Swordflower College. It was rumored that at Truth College, there was a professor from the Prophecy Sect who could deduce a yer��s truebat strength from avable data and formte targeted strategies. Truth College students often dominated their matches, thanks inrge part to the Prophecy Sect��s analytical prowess.


    The College League might not end before it begins, but it certainly starts before it officially opens. Schools provide as much support as they can, and students must quickly absorb this knowledge to mitigate weaknesses and bolster strengths.


    By the time Sonya felt her eyes getting tired from reading, the car had already arrived at Truth College.


    Sonya got out and immediately noticed the White Tower not far away.


    Since the ��Starsfall�� incident, the White Tower had stood tall in the center of Gxia, and the stars had not fallen since. Though she couldn��t see it, Sonya knew that a Star Prayer was maintaining the bnce of the stars from the top of the White Tower.


    Truth College wasn��t open to the public, but this ��public�� didn��t include students from other universities��non-Truth College students could visit with valid credentials.


    ��Swordflower?��


    ��Red-Haired Sword Princess����


    Sonya��s recent surge in poprity and her legendary experiences had made her a well-known figure, even at Truth College. Many students recognized her as the rising ��Sword Saint Seed.�� As she walked through the campus, numerous students noticed her. However, they didn��t approach her or engage in conversation; they simply nodded in acknowledgment. Sonya, maintaining herposure, responded with a gracious smile to each friendly or hostile look.


    She arrived in front of a gray-white building, where two Gun Sword sorcerers stood guard. Although the Gun Sword Sect was still in its early stages, its impressivebat effectiveness and rtively low learning threshold (for both swordsmen and gun sorcerers) had already made it a standard for silver-armed sorcerers.


    As she walked up the steps, one of the Gun Sword sorcerers raised a hand to stop her. ��Apologies, but this area is off-limits to visitors. Non-students are not permitted to enter.��


    ��I��ve already booked the training room,�� Sonya replied, a bit puzzled. ��You should be able to see my reservation, right?��


    The Gun Sword sorcerers in charge of security wore Miracle Goggles, which shared a database with the academy��s veil, providing immediate ess to basic information about the students in front of them��very useful for catching rule-breakers. Thus, they could easily identify Sonya as a non-student, but they should also be able to see her reservation.


    Moreover, this was Sonya��s third time visiting the Time Training Room. The previous two visits had been without incident; why was she being stopped now?


    The Gun Sword sorcerer responded politely, ��Apologies, but the academy has recently enhanced its security measures. Non-students entering important facilities must report to the management office. Please wait a moment.��


    ��Alright.��


    Sonya stood there for several seconds, until a student walked past her and entered the Time Training Room. Suddenly, she realized what was happening.


    ��May I go in now?�� she asked.


    ��Sorry, the management office hasn��t replied yet,�� the Gun Sword sorcerer said. ��Perhaps the staff is out. Please wait a bit longer.��


    This wless official rhetoric was the kind of nonsense only a Council Member drunk on three bottles of wine after a five-day bender coulde up with.


    Sonya instantly understood what she was facing��suppression from Truth College.


    No, it wasn��t really suppression from Truth College itself. Such a colossal institution wouldn��t bother to target someone like Sonya directly. It was more likely the work of an administrative staff member in the admissions office. Because Sonya had recently declined an offer from Truth College, they were now exacting a small form of revenge.


    Many of Truth College��s training facilities were the best, most advanced, and even unique. Other allied schools could use these Miracle facilities, such as the Time Training Room in front of Sonya, as long as they had approval from their professors.


    The person enacting this revenge wasn��t openly bullying Sonya. They merely instructed the guards to intercept non-students and report their information to the management office for review, which was a procedurally sound requirement. Especially after the ��Starsfall�� incident, such heightened security measures were entirely reasonable.


    Sonya could even predict the oues of various possible reactions:<ol><li>


    Losing Her Temper: If she lost her temper and yelled at the two Gun Sword sorcerers, it would attract the attention of Truth College students. These students were likely already resentful of non-students using their training resources and would not sympathize with Sonya. They might even feel that it was about time someone addressed this issue.</li></ol><ol start="2"><li>


    Waiting: If she chose to wait, the Time Training Room schedules were typically fully booked. Even if she waited for three hours and was eventually allowed to enter, there wouldn��t be an avable training room for her. More likely, after waiting for over two hours, the staff would ��very apologetically�� return and approve her entry, making it difficult for her to even express her frustration.</li></ol><ol start="3"><li>


    Comining on Forums: If she went to the school forums to criticize Truth College for discrimination, she wouldn��t find much support except from members of the Stretch Paw Club. It would be akin to a noble girlining about being married off to a duke��s son of equal standing; to ordinary students, Sonyaining about being strong enough to be discriminated against by Truth College would seem more like bragging.</li></ol><ol start="4"><li>


    Reporting to Professor Trozan: If sheined to Professor Trozan, regardless of the oue, today��s training session would be ruined. Whether or not she would face simr issues in the future would depend on how much influence Trozan actually had.</li></ol>


    However, the most likely scenario was that even if Sonyained to others, they would merely think she was being ��paranoid,�� ��making baseless usations,�� or ��overly self-important.��


    After all, why would Truth College, with its vast resources and reputation, target a single student like you?


    There��s no smoke without fire. It takes two to tango��


    But Sonya was very sure of her suspicion.


    She was all too familiar with this feeling: when people followed all the rules, yet somehow managed to disgust, inconvenience, and cause you needless trouble and loss.


    They knew you didn��t have the means to fight back, so they acted without restraint.


    Even if you stood your ground and didn��t give in, at most, you would only reim your rightful benefits. There would be nopensation for you, and they would face no punishment.


    This feeling of frustration and pain, like a fishbone stuck in your throat, unable to spit it out or swallow it, was something she and her mother had endured together since childhood.


    The difference was that her mother had be increasingly numb over time, while Sonya had be increasingly angry.


    In the sight of the two Gun Sword sorcerers, Sonya cleared her throat, tapped her Miracle wristband, and dialed a number.


    ��Hmm?�� Azy voice answered on the other end.


    ��Pro�� Professor Trozan!�� Sonya sobbed, crying out like a distressed maiden, ��Pleasee to Truth College and save me!��

 Chapter 374: Im Just a Bit Tired Lately

    Chapter 374: Im Just a Bit Tired Lately


    The two gun-sword sorcerers stared nkly at Sonya, who had just called for help and then immediately cut off themunication. The abrupt end was as if the heroine had identally been caught by the main viin.


    ��Uh, uh,�� one of the gun-sword sorcerers hesitantly asked, ��Miss Therave, what are you��?��


    ��Ah, it��s none of your business,�� Sonya waved her hand dismissively. ��You��re just doing your job, and I won��t me you for that. But you��ve wasted two minutes of my time, and someone has to be held ountable. I��m just a student, so I don��t have the authority to demand an exnation from Truth College. That��s why I called my professor. Although Professor Trozan is just a low-level Sanctuary sorcerer, she still has some clout.��


    ��When the professor arrives, you should truthfully exin who instructed you to intercept me and who intends to restrict my passage. Although Professor Trozan has a bad temper, she won��t randomly harm people. Your lives won��t be in danger.��


    The two gun-sword sorcerers nced at each other, operated their Miracle wristbands, and then stepped aside. ��The administration has approved your passage. Please go ahead.��


    ��No, no.�� Sonya shook her head and waved her hands, doubly rejecting the sorcerers�� goodwill. ��I��ve already called Professor Trozan for help, and I need to wait here to report the grievances I��ve endured. This trick can��t be used often, but since I��ve used it, I must make the most of it.��


    ��Don��t worry, I��m not ming you. But I advise you not to be stubborn. Your sry isn��t worth the trouble of offending a Sanctuary sorcerer.��


    ��Miss Therave, please calm down and don��t be so angry. We will����


    ��So you know I��m angry,�� Sonya smiled. ��Look, I��m this angry just because my time was wasted. Now guess how angry Professor Trozan will be when she finds out I tricked her intoing here and wasting her time? I��m her student, so she won��t take her anger out on me. Now, who do you think she��ll vent her anger on?��Lies.


    Sonya��s rtionship with Trozan wasn��t that good, and Trozan hated being deceived. A scolding was inevitable when she got back.


    But Trozan also cared a lot about her reputation. It was she who helped Sonya get ess to the ��Time Training Room.�� Now that Sonya was being blocked outside and had specifically called her over, Trozan, no matter how angry she might be, had to stand up for Sonya.


    Even if Truth College had intercepted Sonya ording to regtions, it wouldn��t matter. As swordsmanship practitioners, they were not prophecy sorcerers; they believed in following their hearts and acting freely. When it was time to draw their swords, they would draw their swords!


    Perhaps it was due to the mental connection among swordsmanship practitioners, but Sonya was very certain that Trozan would definitely stand by her side and would never bow down to Truth College.


    Because Trozan��s main focus wasn��t the versatile Mental Sect,


    nor the soft-yet-strong Water Sect,


    but the ever-advancing Swordsmanship Sect!


    If Trozan knew her student was in the right but didn��t dare stand up for her, she could forget about advancing the Swordsmanship Sect to the legendary level in her lifetime!


    Simrly, Sonya had a vague feeling that if she left quietly, swallowing her anger, her Swordsmanship Sect wouldn��t progress to the Sanctuary level until she retaliated.


    She suddenly had an epiphany: the cultivation of a spellcasting sect wasn��t just limited tobat and training; it was closely rted to the sorcerer��s conduct, emotions, and way of thinking.


    Sonya had met many swordsmanship practitioners. Whether they were sloppy or neat, lively or gloomy, they were all invariably strong-willed.


    Even if they admitted defeat, their eyes were full of a determination that said, ��Just you wait.��


    Speaking of which, when Sonya was choosing her spellcasting sect in her first year, she chose the Water Department because she felt that water sorcerers best matched her ideal image: low-key yet elegant, gentle yet strong, able topromise yet firm in their principles.


    If she were a water sorcerer, she might have found a better, more gentle way to defuse others�� malice towards her.


    But unfortunately, the Observer insisted she practice swordsmanship.


    After experiencing time and again the feeling of defending her dignity with a sword, she could never go back to being that cautious vige girl.


    Even the Observer didn��t dare let her be wronged, so why should she endure this indignity here?!


    ��Miss Therave, please don��t say that. We��ve already reported your visit to the administration in time. This is a reasonable dy����


    ��I��m sorry, but we swordsmanship practitioners are just that uncultured. You can exin these reasons to the Sanctuary sorcerer.��


    The gun-sword sorcerers knew they couldn��t persuade Sonya any further. Soon, a young assistant hurried over. ��Miss Therave����


    ��Have I offended you?�� Sonya interrupted him directly.


    ��Of course not����


    ��Then why are you blocking me from going to the training room?��


    ��It��s a misunderstanding.�� The young assistant said helplessly, ��The school has recently tightened security measures����


    ��Okay.��


    Sonya interrupted him again and summoned a spirit. ��This is the ��Sincerity�� spirit. When you lie in its presence, it changes color. Now, please repeat, is it really a misunderstanding?��


    The young assistant��s face changed, and he forced a smile. ��It��s rare for a swordsmanship practitioner to carry a Mental spirit����


    Sonya remained silent, staring coldly at him. The young assistant was silent for a moment, then sighed and said, ��I��m just a small figure. Please don��t make it hard for me, okay?��


    ��Okay, I won��t make it hard for you.��


    Sonya looked up towards the sky, and everyone else followed suit. They saw a streak of sword light cutting through the blue sky and white clouds, heading towards them. When itnded, it transformed into a female swordsman with fluffy hair.


    She nced at Sonya. ��I thought by the time I arrived, you��d either bepletely naked or down to your underwear at most.��


    ��Are you here to rescue me or to see me humiliated?��


    ��That��s not a single-choice question.�� Trozan looked around. ��I vited the Gxia No-Fly Ordinance to rush here. You didn��t call me just to give me a tour of Truth College, did you?��


    ��Here��s the situation: these people tried to stop me from entering the Time Training Room. He asked me not to make things difficult for them, so I called you, Professor.�� Sonya spread her hands. ��You were the one who helped me apply for the Time Training Room. By not letting me in, they��re not pping me in the face; they��re pping your heart-shaped butt!��


    Trozan red fiercely at her student, tugged at the hem of her coat, and turned to face the young assistant.


    ��Professor Trozan, Miss Therave, this really is just a misunderstanding����


    When Sonya once again summoned the ��Sincerity�� spirit, the young assistant hesitated for a moment and then fell silent.


    ��I was kidding. The ��Sincerity�� spirit can��t actually detect lies,�� Sonya said with a smile. ��So, you can lie in front of a Sanctuary sorcerer without hesitation.��


    It was as if his spine had been removed. The young assistant lowered his head and sighed. ��I promise this mistake won��t happen again.��


    ��Admitting fault just because I showed up? I��m not a spirit of apology; I don��t have that ability,�� Trozan raised an eyebrow. ��So, tell me, who exactly is targeting my student?��


    ��Professor, think about it. Have you offended anyone recently?��


    Trozan thought for a moment and started counting on her fingers, ��One, two, three, four, five����


    ��Forget I asked,�� Sonya said as she stepped into the gray-white building. ��I��ll leave the rest to you, Professor. I��m going inside to train now. I��ve already wasted 15 minutes�� Professor, I don��t believe a single word of his promise. Can you guarantee that I won��t encounter this kind of baseless malice again?��


    ��Are you the professor, or am I the professor? You want me to make promises to you?�� Trozan snorted coldly.


    Sonya shrugged and, as she turned to leave, heard Trozan say, ��Next time, just call me over directly. No need to shout so dramatically.��


    It��s settled.


    Sonya knew that Professor Trozan would definitely blow this matter up, making it troublesome for everyone involved, even embarrassing Truth College.


    And that was exactly the oue she wanted.


    I might be disgusted by you, but don��t think you��ll get away with it easily!


    At worst, I��ll get a scolding from Professor Trozan when I get back, but you all will be losing your bonuses!


    Entering the Time Training Room, she found it divided into strength, agility, and intelligence zones. Sonya had reserved the strength training room. As soon as she stepped inside, her heart started pounding violently. The suddenly increased gravity nearly made her fall to her knees.


    The Level 1 Time Training Room elerated time by 1.1 times and increased gravity by 1.1 times.


    As the most sought-after training facility at Truth College, the Time Training Room��s effectiveness was indisputable. The 1.1-fold increase in gravity provided effective training for a sorcerer��s entire body, including internal organs, enhancing the efficiency of Physical Sect spirits by at least 25%. The 1.1-fold time eleration didn��t speed up real time but rather the sorcerer��s cognitive time.


    In Sonya��s perception, although her thoughts elerated, her body did not change, and it even seemed slower due to the increased gravity. If she could maintain her training in this state, her body and even her soul would significantly strengthen, and her insight and reaction times would break through their limits.


    The training room provided self-repairing armor effigies. After changing into her training clothes and taking out a wooden sword, Sonya began her Swordsmanship practice. But after just ten minutes, her breathing became irregr, and her posture started to deteriorate.


    Compared to sorcerers who had been well-nourished and physically trained from a young age, Sonya��s foundation was indeed weak. Not to mentionparing herself to nobility like Felix and Engulite, evenpared to Adelle and Lois, Sonya��s basic physical fitness was far inferior.


    Havingcked adequate meat, eggs, and milk in her diet as a child, it was hard to make up for itter in life. The Observer��s ��Forced Training�� had allowed Sonya to quickly catch up to the level of a formal swordsman, but it had also exhausted her body��s potential.


    Because ordinary training could no longer further strengthen her body, Sonya applied to use the Time Training Room. However, her body couldn��t squeeze out any more potential, so she would soon hit her limit.


    But Sonya was prepared for this.


    ��Sword Body�� spirit!


    A thinyer of sword light covered Sonya��s skin, internal organs, tissues, and muscles. With even the slightest movement, she felt the sword light stabbing her all over.


    As abination of the Swordsmanship Sect and the Physical Sect, the ��Sword Body�� could generate sword light that a sorcerer could absorb. Once enough sword light was absorbed, the sorcerer could forge an exceptional Sword Body.


    However, the Sword Body spirit had two major drawbacks: the efficiency of absorbing sword light was very low, and only by persisting in training when the sorcerer��s entire body was exhausted could they slowly absorb the sword light to rece their body��s potential. Additionally, when the sword light covered the body, every tiny movement caused the sword light to painfully prick the nerves.


    Therefore, even among swordsmen, it was rare to use the ��Sword Body�� to enhance oneself unless they had a spirit that could make them immune to pain. Although Sonya didn��t have a spirit to block pain, she had her own method.


    ��Forced Training��!


    After so many days of Forced Training, Sonya realized that she could not only start Forced Training ahead of time to free up her evening training hours but also break the two-hour Forced Training into segments.


    This meant she could train on her own until her body was exhausted and then trigger ��Forced Training,�� allowing the Observer��s power to drive her body to continue her deep training!


    Just like now!


    Her erratic breathing became steady, and her distorted movements corrected themselves. The stabbing pain of the sword light was suppressed into silent screams, and her physical exhaustion was sweated out drop by drop.


    However, this full-power training mode naturally had its drawbacks.


    The first thing that couldn��t withstand it wasn��t Sonya��s body but herself.


    When the pain and exhaustion were about to overwhelm her soul, Sonya immediately stopped training and activated the ��Sincerity�� spirit to significantly enhance her mental resistance, forcibly enduring the bone-deep fatigue and the pain in every limb!


    Snap.


    As soon as she exited the Forced Training state, Sonya copsed to the ground, feeling as if she had melted like ice cream. Her clothes were so soaked it was as if she had just been pulled out of water, and her tear ducts worked harder than when she was born to wash her eyes-Sonya didn��t know if she was crying from pain or exhaustion.


    So tired, so painful, I can��t do this, I want to die��


    She suddenly remembered the conversation she had with the young assistant earlier and couldn��t help but let out a bitter smile.


    If only one could gain happiness from training, perhaps most geniuses are like that, but unfortunately, she wasn��t. What drove her to work hard was never the joy found in training but��


    After resting for a while, Sonya sat up and chugged down arge bottle of water, then gritted her teeth and stood up to continue training.


    In the evening, when Sonya returned to the dormitory, she immediately copsed onto the table.


    Lois nced at her, ��Tired?��


    ��Yeah.��


    ��If you��re tired, go take a shower and sleep.��


    ��No can do.�� The Stretch Paw Club President stretched and pulled out a few thick books. ��I still have to read.��


    ��Haven��t you already read those Time Continent books?�� Adelle poked her head out from her bed.


    ��Just reading them once doesn��t mean I remember everything. There are lots of details that are easy to overlook.�� The vige girl said seriously, ��If I don��t go over them a few more times now, it��ll be troublesome if I can��t recall them in the Virtual Realm.��


    Since she put it that way, neither Lois nor Adelle could stop her from being so diligent.


    But as she continued reading, the vige girl suddenly eximed, ��Oh no, I almost forgot!��


    ��Did you forget to do yourundry?�� Adelle asked, poking her head out again. ��I forgot too��let��s do it together.��


    ��I have a voice audition in a couple of days, I need to practice my vocal cords now!��


    ��Acting, releasing singles, reading, training, preparing for the College League���� Lois counted on her fingers, ��I haven��t seen you take a breaktely. Aren��t you tired?��


    ��Is Sonya really this pitiful?�� Adelle said. ��Fine, I��ll help you with theundry.��


    ��Tired, yes, but these are things I have to do.�� Sonya raised her head, ��I don��t want to regret not seizing these opportunities when I��m old.��


    ��I don��t think you��ll even get the chance to grow old,�� Lois said. ��I wouldn��t be surprised if you suddenly dropped dead one day.��


    ��Would the school waive all our papers and assignments to keep us quiet?�� Adelle joked.


    ��Don��t worry, I take good care of myself. No need to worry about me.��


    Sonya waved goodbye to her roommates with a smile, but she stopped just as she reached the dormitory door.


    After a moment, she said, ��I won��t be back tonight.��


    Lois blinked, ��Are you going to practice your voice all night? Are you training your throat or murdering it?��


    ��No.�� Sonya shook her head, her eyes shining like stars. ��My soul has fully recovered.��


    With that, Sonya left the dormitory like the wind, leaving Lois and Adelle no chance to say anything.


    ��How did she recover so quickly?�� Adelle wondered. ��I heard that the soul recovery period for two-wings sorcerers is usually quite long�� Could it be that Sonya was bitten by L Fatty, so her soul wound was shallow?��


    ��I thought she would take a break after dying in the virtual realm this time,�� Lois sighed. ��But she��s working even harder than before�� Plus, she used to be able to rest and sleep, but now that her soul has recovered, she��s pushing herself both in reality and in the virtual realm.��


    Adelle nodded, ��Every time I see Sonya working so hard, I feel guilty just lying around.��


    Lois rolled her eyes at her. ��By the way, add me to Sonya��s fan group�� I��ll help you guys with the management.��


    ��Weren��t you not interested before?��


    ��I��m still not interested, but�� I might as well do something while I��m idle.��


    Meditation Building.


    Touching the Gate of Truth, her consciousness sank into the virtual realm.


    When Sonya opened her eyes, the familiar sight of Reverse Golden Rain filled her vision once again.


    As always, she sat in the back seat of the sports car, with the Witch beside her and the Observer in the front seat.


    ��Hmm���� Ashe opened the virtual realm map, ��Let me check how far we are from the Spider Tower area�� Huh?��


    Ashe turned his head to see the Sword Princess climbing over from the back seat, wrapping her arms around his neck and resting her head on his shoulder.


    Ashe blinked, ��Sword Princess, what��s wrong?��


    ��Nothing, don��t move, just let me stay like this for a while.�� Sonya took a deep breath, savoring the moment, her head gently rubbing against his shoulder. All the day��s hardship, grievances, and pretense seemed to vanish.


    ��I��m just a bit tiredtely.��

 Chapter 375: Are You Done?

    Chapter 375: Are You Done?


    What am I doing?


    Sonya leaned against Ashe��s shoulder, not daring to lift her head.


    The vige girl felt like a demon had just taken control of her body. She waspletely dazed, and by the time she came to her senses, she was already leaning against the Observer��s shoulder.


    This was definitely not her intention! It must be because she hadn��t been to the Virtual Realm for too long, causing her soul to be a bit hazy. Or perhaps it was the loud footsteps of the Celestial Bull, or maybe the blinding light of the Reverse Golden Rain!


    What to do, what to do, what to do��


    Can a de Fish Dragone to the rescue? I promise I��ll send you off in the highest style of Blood Moon Blossoms, making sure you die a glorious and heroic death!


    If it were just the Observer, it wouldn��t be so bad, but the problem was that the Witch was watching from behind!


    She had clearly appeared in the back seat with the Witch, but she had deliberately moved to the front seat to hold�� cling to�� and lean on the Observer to rest. Sonya couldn��t even imagine the expression on the Witch��s face right now!


    Their behavior in the Amnesia Cabin was already enough to make the Witch misunderstand, and now Sonya hadn��t just failed to clear up the misunderstanding, she had lost any chance to exin herself!She felt her face burning with embarrassment, so much so that she didn��t dare to face anyone!


    As she thought about it, Sonya couldn��t help but me the man in front of her-Little Trumpet, can��t you tell that I really need help right now! Even though there��s no verbal, facial, physical, or eye contactmunication, can��t you sense my inner turmoil?


    Can��t you just do something silly to break this awkward atmosphere?


    She decided to give him a hint.


    Sonya gently nudged his shoulder.


    No response. Try again.


    Another nudge, another nudge, another nudge��


    Ashe watched Sonya continuously rubbing her head against his shoulder. He felt like his trench coat was about to get worn out. But this scene looked familiar; Lise would asionally cling to him like this for a hug, acting just like a ko bear.


    So, the sword Princess means��


    Ashe blinked and gently hugged Sonya. But as soon as his hand touched her waist, Sonya jerked her head up like she had been electrocuted. Her face flushed with embarrassment, lips tightly pressed together, and her big, watery eyes red at Ashe, as if saying, ��How dare you be so bold.��


    Ashe immediately raised his hands in surrender. The vige girl let out a soft humph and quickly moved to the farthest seat, treating Ashe like a used rag she was done with.


    Nervously, she nced back to find that the Witch had actuallyid down in the back seat, facing the seatback as if she hadn��t seen anything.


    Witch, you��re so considerate!


    Though she knew it was self-deception, Sonya still let out a sigh of relief and said, ��Witch, wake up, don��t sleep!��


    ��Hmm?�� Deya rubbed her eyes as she sat up. ��Are you guys done?��


    Boom!


    Sonya felt like her head was about to burst with steam, and the little bit ofposure she had managed to maintain was shattered by the Witch��s question.


    Ashe, however, remained calm. ��Well, it��s normal to want someone to talk to and rely on when you��re stressed. Witch, do you want to be pampered? We have both a male mom and a female mom avable.��


    ��I��m not being pampered���� Sonya said, embarrassed, lowering her head with a voice as small as a mosquito��s buzz.


    ��No, no,�� Deya waved her hand dismissively. ��I already have someone to pamper me.��


    Despite wasting quite a bit of time, this little episode helped the three of them, who hadn��t been together for nearly ten days, naturally andfortably form a cohesive unit once more.


    The sports car roared as it drove across the Time Continent.


    There was so much information they needed to share that they didn��t know where to start.


    ��ording to the virtual realm map, we��ll reach the Spider Tower region when we enter the Virtual Realm tomorrow,�� Ashe said. ��Tonight, we can continue our adventure without worrying about a heroic soulmander suddenly charging at us with an army.��


    ��Luckily, you gave us the potion; otherwise, normal soul recovery would have been impossible,�� Sonya said as she moved back to the rear seat. Although her face was still slightly red, her strong mental fortitude allowed her to participate in the conversation normally. ��By the way, did you trigger the Conceptual Secret Toxin?��


    ��After you triggered it, I checked your data, and it has been triggered.��


    ��What is the Conceptual Secret Toxin?��


    Ashe and Sonya exchanged a nce, then Ashe shook his head at Deya. ��The Conceptual Secret Toxin currently only has side effects. It��s best if you don��t know about it.��


    Secret toxins have two valuable aspects: the intelligence they provide and the positive enhancements they bring. Some toxins are worth sharing, such as the Vortex Secret Toxin for its informational value, and the Golden Fish Secret Toxin and Bronze Dragon Secret Toxin for their beneficial effects.


    However, most toxins are not worth sharing, like the Conceptual Secret Toxin and the Expel Secret Toxin.


    Yes, the Conceptual Secret Toxin does unveil the mysteries of the conceptual Incarnation, but what use is that to Ashe and the others? Does it get them a discount on fruit?


    Though the side effects of the Conceptual Secret Toxin are bearable, why add another chronic condition unnecessarily?


    Deya gave them a suspicious look. ��Are you guys excluding me?��


    This was exactly what Sonya feared most��if they all had the toxin, it was fine. If only she had it, that was manageable too. But if only two people were infected, it would be troublesome.


    Abination like [sword Princess + Witch] was fine since the Observer would definitely trust their judgment; however, [sword Princess + Observer] would be problematic, as the Witch would have every reason to suspect those two.


    Ashe shot a ming look at Sonya��since it wasn��t a beneficial toxin, why mention it at all? Why not just keep it to herself instead of sharing unpleasant details with everyone?


    Now, the Witch suspected that the unpleasantness might be something more intriguing. Should they let her dive in headfirst or pull her into the mess?


    But Sonya had her reasons: ��There was a ��Starsfall�� incident on my end, and coincidentally, the Empress��s heroic soul snatched the ��Incarnation of the Stars.�� I suspect she might have directly crushed the ��Incarnation of the Stars,�� which caused all rted spirits to be annihted�� I thought you would all get infected with the Conceptual Secret Toxin after seeing the Starsfall.��


    ��Starsfall incident?��


    After Sonya briefly described the scene where stars nearly shattered the Firmament, Ashe and Deya exchanged nces and shook their heads. ��We didn��t encounter anything like that.��


    ��Wait a minute.�� Deya seemed to be deep in thought. ��Incarnation of the Stars, Starsfall, causing all rted spirits to be annihted, could it be����


    Ashe abruptly mmed on the brakes, causing the sports car to carve donut-like skid marks on the grass. Deya was thrown to one side by the inertia, and just as she steadied herself, Sonya grabbed her shoulders and shook her like a fruit drink being mixed!


    ��What, what, what are you guys doing?!��


    Ashe asked, ��What about the stars?��


    Deya, dizzy from the shaking, replied, ��Didn��t they fall?��


    Ashe started spinning the sports car in circles. ��Not enough, sword Princess, keep shaking her!��


    ��Got it!��


    ��Aaaaah�� ugh!�� Deya was so nauseated from the spinning and shaking that she dry-heaved. Luckily, this was the Virtual Realm, and she couldn��t throw up anything but secrets.


    The Witch raised her head and saw the Observer and the sword Princess looking at her kindly. She quickly raised her hands to shield her face in surrender. ��I forgot, I really forgot. I don��t know anything about the stars, and I didn��t see you hugging the Observer, sword Princess. I didn��t see anything, I don��t know anything, please let me go!��


    Sonya cracked her knuckles, making a popping sound. ��( *�����) Seems like there��s still some residual memory����

 Chapter 376: Armored Sanctification

    Chapter 376: Armored Sanctification


    ��Witch,�� Ashe said seriously, ��We��re not joking with you. If you get infected with the Secret Toxin, it won��t just harm you; our symptoms will worsen too. So, if you can avoid infection, please do.��


    ��Alright, let��s drop this topic. But to make sure the Witch doesn��t keep thinking about it, Sword Princess, go tickle her.��


    ��Understood.��


    ��No, don��t! I��m very ticklish! Stop it! Hahaha! Stop! Hahaha! Okay, okay, I have something to say too! I have something to say!��


    Deya, with a flushed face, copsed into Sonya��s arms, her shoulders trembling and her nose sniffling. It took her a while to catch her breath. ��It��s about my rtionship with the Gospel Incarnation����


    Ashe and the Sword Princess perked up.


    Throughout this Adventure in the Amnesia Cabin, the biggest mystery wasn��t the true purpose of the Secret Incarnation or the Incarnation of the Stars, but rather the connection between the Witch operator and the Empress��s heroic soul. Why did the Gospel Incarnation, the Witch, the Witch��s grandmother, and the Basement Girl all share the same appearance temte?


    Even if the Witch��s appearance was indeed beautiful, it seemed unlikely that everyone would choose the same look. And what about gic diversity? Did meiosis get killed off by mitosis?


    Compared to a simple ��love of beauty,�� Ashe and the Sword Princess believed in another hypothesis: the Witch��s appearance was not a natural miracle of life but a result of deliberate interference by a sorcerer, allowing it to remain unchanged through generations or even dozens of generations.��First of all, I don��t think I have any blood rtion to the Gospel Incarnation,�� Deya said. ��Besides the fact that the Gospel Incarnation��s activities were at least a thousand years ago, more importantly�� let��s not even discuss whether the Gospel Incarnation had the ability to reproduce, but she likely didn��t have the opportunity.��


    Indeed.


    Ashe and the others still remembered the dark history of the Empress��s heroic soul in the Amnesia Cabin-though to her, it might have been a glorious achievement:


    ��Her disciples were ughtered by you, her glory twisted and corrupted by you.��


    ��You distorted her scriptures, destroyed hermandments, until no one in the world could hear her Gospel.��


    ��You became her only disciple, and she became a deity belonging solely to you.��


    This also meant that the Gospel Incarnation had always been under the control of the Empress��s heroic soul, trapped by the Empress��s sterile love. Even if the Gospel Incarnation had the ability to reproduce, there was simply no opportunity for it to be utilized.


    As for whether the Empress��s heroic soul would use a sorcerer��s Miracle to forcefully procreate with the Gospel Incarnation, Ashe and the others dismissed this idea.


    Based on their actual interactions and the ck history provided by the Cabin, the Empress��s heroic soul was not the type to like children. Moreover, children would undoubtedly divert attention from their parents, which the Empress��s heroic soul could never tolerate as they would be seen as rivals for attention. The Empress��s heroic soul had even killed off all of the Gospel Incarnation��s devoted disciples, so how could she allow a child to take away the Gospel Incarnation��s love?


    ��As for why I look exactly like the Gospel Incarnation, it actually has to do with a Ritual Miracle,�� Deya said. ��It��s called Armored Sanctification.��


    ��Armored Sanctification!?�� Sonya eximed in surprise. ��Do people really perform such a ritual?��


    Ashe blinked. ��You know about it?��


    ��I read about it in a book before. It��s an ancient ritual that has been abandoned, a rumor passed down by other sorcerer predecessors from the Virtual Realm,�� Sonya exined. ��In simple terms, mortals, in order to usurp the power of a deity, disguise themselves as the deity, follow the deity��s principles, walk the deity��s path, and replicate the deity��s deeds�� until the world sees the mortal and the deity as one. The mortal then bes sanctified, sharing the deity��s status. The ��armor�� serves both to disguise the deity��s appearance and to conceal the mortal��s essence.��


    Ashe said, ��That sounds like an impressive ritual. Why was it abandoned?��


    Sonya retorted, ��Have you ever seen a deity? The premise of Armored Sanctification is that you need to know the deity you are imitating very well. The sorcerer who recorded ��Armored Sanctification�� noted that there might have been many beings known as ��gods�� walking the earth in the past, which is why sorcerers attempted to usurp their powers����


    ��Speaking of which,�� Ashe suddenly said, ��Did you know that when a spirit ascends to Five Wings, its essence of life is transformed into that of a deity?��


    Deya nodded, while Sonya was stunned.


    ��Deity�� a spirit condenses Five Wings and bes a deity���� Sonya pondered. ��So the essence of the Armored Sanctification ritual is����


    ��Summoning a deity.��


    Deya exined, ��Just like the Summoning Ritual we use to call spirits, Armored Sanctification is essentially a sorcerer��s ritual to summon a deity.��


    ��But while a sorcerer can fully control ordinary spirits, a mortal��s soul cannot contain the vastness of a deity, nor can it wield a deity��s powers. Therefore, ��Armored Sanctification�� is not just a summoning ritual but also an initiation ritual��when a mortal and a deity be one, the mortal can naturally harness the deity��s full powers.��


    ��This is also why I cannot possibly be a descendant of the Gospel Incarnation,�� Deya continued. ��The Gospel Incarnation, whom the Empress��s heroic soul was infatuated with, was actually a deity walking the earth.��


    Ashe and Sonya were overwhelmed by this significant revtion. After a moment, Sonya suddenly snapped out of it, hugging Deya affectionately and asking, ��So, Witch, are you actually performing ��Armored Sanctification,�� trying to summon the Gospel Incarnation?��


    Sonya��s eyes sparkled as if she wanted to worship the Witch. Although the vige girl didn��t know exactly how powerful a Five Wings deity was, it had to be stronger than a four wings legendary sorcerer, right?


    If the Witch sessfully performed Armored Sanctification, their team��s averagebat strength would rise to three wings: (2+2+5)/3=3!


    The actual effect would be even more impressive. Forget the Time Continent, even if they reached the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm or the Distant Sky Domain, they could still thrive under the Witch��s protection!


    This high-endbat power, two levels above, was like a college student solving basic education math problems!


    Then, she could ride the Observer and charge ahead, livingfortably under the Witch��s protection��life would be even better than reality!


    ��No, I epted the Bronze Dragon��s Trial and escaped my grandmother��s control to resist the Armored Sanctification ritual.��


    So there really is no such good fortune in the world�� Sonya sighed.


    Ashe asked, ��Is it because Armored Sanctification affects your personality?��


    ��Saying it ��affects personality�� is a bit too naive,�� Deya replied with a bitter smile. ��In fact, I don��t know exactly what will happen�� Have you ever heard of a fairy tale called ��The Wolf and the Sheep��?��


    ��There are too many simr tales. Just give us the conclusion,�� Ashe said.


    ��Alright.�� Deya seemed eager to tell the fairy tale, but was a bit disappointed when Ashe cut her off. ��In short, my grandmother is like a wolf in sheep��s clothing. Although she looks human, internally she has nothing human left. Instead, she is abination of deity and humanity�� a thinking set of rules.��


    Sonya was surprised. ��Wait, you mean your grandmother sessfullypleted Armored Sanctification and became�� a Mortal God?��


    ��You could also call her,�� Deya said, ��the Gospel Incarnation.��


    Sonya said, ��I remember the Amnesia Cabin mentioned that your grandmother wanted you to be a Mortal God, but you refused the Armoring Ritual. So, your current enemy is your grandmother, the previous Mortal God?��


    ��It��s not that serious,�� Deya shrugged. ��She��s just a witch in a fairy tale who is destined to be defeated. Fortunately, I woke up early and have mostly escaped her control��I will eventually strike back!��


    Seeing the Witch��s forced optimism, the vige girl felt defeated��she had lost the ��who��s had it worse�� contest!


    Someone actually had it worse than her!


    She had a somewhat wed childhood, but her life got back on track as an adult.


    The Witch, however, was deceived by her grandmother in childhood, hunted by a deity as an adult, and even now couldn��t rest easy.


    Given this logic, their third operator was probably someone with a wed childhood, bad adult rtionships, and now a divorced woman gued by disasters.


    After the two finished their discussion, they turned their eyes to the man in the front seat.


    ��Observer,�� Sonya asked casually, ��do you have any intel to share with us from these past days?��


    ��My past days����


    Vamora, Senhaeser��s Dream, the white mist mutation, the Family Ranking, finally ending up in Belldate��s hands and being humiliated by Miss Yvaren in various ways��


    Although there was a lot to say, due to Annan��s Pact of Secrecy, Ashe realized that the only thing he could actually boast about was leading the team to defeat the Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord.

 Chapter 377: The Bewitchers Diary Copy

    Chapter 377: The Bewitchers Diary Copy


    Ashe suddenly remembered something, pulled over the car, and then a diary appeared in his hand.


    ��What��s this?��


    ��The Secret Toxin Diary.��


    Ashe briefly exined the diary��s effects. Hearing that it could alleviate toxin symptoms, Sonya��s eyes lit up immediately. ��Is there more? Get me one too!��


    ��Everyone will have one eventually.��


    Because of the white mist anomaly during the ��dream expedition�� prize exchange, followed by being chased and ughtered by a group of Red Hats, there was no time to rest. Ashe almost forgot about the Secret Toxin Diary for two days until now, when he opened it for the first time.


    As for which toxin to record, Ashe had already decided��Vortex Secret Toxin!


    They were no longer in the Sea of Knowledge, so the Vortex Secret Toxin was of no value to them. However, its symptoms were extremely annoying. If the Conceptual Secret Toxin asionally made Ashe hate the world, the Vortex Secret Toxin made him hate water all the time.


    Except for bathing, Ashe usually drank lemon tea or dark-colored drinks like toilet cleaner to avoid the ��water aversion�� symptom of the Vortex Secret Toxin.And there was another serious issue��saliva is also water!


    His own saliva was tolerable, but touching someone else��s saliva would definitely trigger the Vortex Secret Toxin!


    The Vortex Secret Toxin might not be the most dangerous, but it definitely had the most significant impact on quality of life!


    After recording the Vortex Secret Toxin in the diary, Ashe said, ��The promotion conditions for the diary��s spirit are strange. The diary copy needs to be read over 500 times to automatically promote�� But a normal person who finds a copy, after reading the toxin details, probably wouldn��t read it a second time, right? They might even throw it away.��


    Sonya nodded. ��So, you need to write something that makes people keep the copy and check it often.��


    ��What should I write?��


    Deya immediately answered, ��Fairy tales!��


    Sonya thought for a moment. ��Interesting novels?��


    ��So, all of you are suggesting using literary works as bait?�� Ashe said. ��I happen to know a literary genre that everyone, regardless of age or gender, will enjoy. Even different races can��t resist the allure of these works.��


    The Witch and the Sword Princess were intrigued. ��What genre is that powerful?��


    ��Erotic literature.��


    ��What is erotic literature?�� Deya asked curiously.


    But soon, her face turned bright red, likely because the White Queen had just given her younger sister, the Secret Princess, a lesson in sexual education. She covered her face and said, ��Observer, are you nning to write a story with you and the Sword Princess as the main characters����


    ��No, no, no,�� Ashe shook his head and waved his hands, doubly denying the idea. ��You don��t understand, Witch. When writing this kind of fantasy literature, it��s crucial not to be too familiar with the subject to evoke a sense of longing. Just like romance authors often haven��t experienced romance themselves, I can��t write erotic literature about people I��m too familiar with. It would lose its appeal��and it would be disrespectful to the Sword Princess. I��m not that kind of person!��


    Ashe spoke righteously, firmly stating he had no such intentions, not giving the Sword Princess a chance to get angry. After all, such thoughts could only remain in his head; writing them down would likely get him killed by the Sword Princess on the spot.


    However, besides that, Ashe actually had many local themes he could write about, such as ��The Infirmary in the Prison��, ��Living with a Bewitcher��, ��Picked Up by the Female Boss��, ��The Elf Mother of the Female Boss��, and so on��


    Just as Ashe��s thoughts flowed like a spring, Sonya suddenly said coldly:


    ��I don��t mind if you write about me or not, but I remember you��re supposed to be a reincarnated amnesiac, right?��


    ��Uh, yes.��


    ��After your amnesia, have you had any intimate experiences with other women?�� Sonya stared at Ashe, her gaze sharp.


    ����No.��


    Sonya withdrew her gaze. ��Without experience, how can you write that kind of passionate feeling?��


    Although he felt slightly belittled, the Sword Princess was absolutely right, and Ashe found himself unable to refute it.


    However, as a corporate ve, Ashe was best at rising to challenges, working himself to death, and oupeting his peers!


    ��Then I��ll figure out a way to fill that knowledge gap in real life����


    Sonya ced a hand on Ashe��s shoulder, summoning a hazy, translucent One-Winged Spirit that looked like it would disappear after a single use.


    ��Observer, this is the Miracle Procedure ��Heart Pen�� I got for you,�� Sonya��s voice suddenly became exceptionally gentle. ��The primary spirits are your Heart Sword and Sword Mark. Do you know how powerful it is inbat?��


    ��How powerful is it?��


    ��Wherever the Heart Pen passes, it leaves an ink mark,�� Sonya lightly traced her finger across the back of Ashe��s neck. Despite the hood, Ashe felt goosebumps rise. ��The ink mark never disappears, and anything that passes through it gets sliced. Ifbined with a Toxic Spell spirit, the wounds inflicted by the ink marks can even expand and be contaminated, causing the victim to die a gruesome death.��


    ��I spent 15 gold coins to buy this Miracle Procedure for you. Do you like it?��


    Ashe nodded vigorously. ��Yes, I like it very much. I��mpletely satisfied. I think I mistook my urge to create for actual talent. I probably don��t have much skill in erotic literature. Sword Princess, why don��t you decide what I should write instead?��


    Although he wasn��t sure why the Sword Princess was angry, her overly gentle demeanor was a clear sign. Plus, she had spent money to buy a Miracle Procedure for him. This was the first time an operator had ever made an in-game purchase for him.


    Being pampered felt great, and since the Sword Princess had rewarded him, Ashe felt he had to show his appreciation so she could experience the joy of in-game purchases.


    However, Sonya herself didn��t have any good ideas. At that moment, Deya suddenly said, ��The White Queen suggested that, Observer, you simply write a diary in the notebook.��


    ��If other sorcerers find a copy, just being able to learn about another sorcerer��s life would be enough to keep them intrigued anding back for more. Plus, Observer, you��re writing a diary��fairy tale viins love sneaking peeks at other people��s diaries.��


    Ashe and Sonya thought about it and realized it was indeed a good idea. They had oveplicated things��having the chance to peek into another sorcerer��s life was inherently appealing.


    However, Ashe ran into a problem before he even started writing: ��There are many things in reality that I can��t disclose for now, and in the Virtual Realm, there��s not much to write about besides the Sword Princess being affectionate with me. Others would definitely find it boring.��


    ��I said I wasn��t being affectionate!�� Sonya bit her lip and retorted, then added, ��While you might not have anything to write about now, you can write about past events.��


    Of course!


    Sonya��s words were a revtion to Ashe. He now realized that his adventures in Shattered Lake Prison were incredibly thrilling, and he had always wanted to share them. However, the Sword Princess had already heard his tales, and whenever he tried to boast to Lise in reality, Harvey and Igor would always interrupt him, so he never had the chance to recount his daring prison break.


    The Secret Toxin Diary was the perfect excuse for him to relive those memories.


    Since he had to explore the Virtual Realm with the Sword Princess and otherster, Ashe quickly jotted down three lines in the diary before closing it.


    ��Year 1668, the city I lived in was rated the safest in the country.��


    ��I made an indelible contribution to this.��


    ��Because I was captured.��


    First Layer of the Virtual Realm, Sea of Knowledge


    ��Spellforce grows so slowly����


    Freyay on the small boat, staring idly at the white mist.


    Thanks to the boat, the Bewitcher��s virtual realm exploration speed was two to three times faster than that of an average sorcerer. Despite this, after so many days, she had only managed to condense a single silver feather, still far from achieving the silver full-winged status.


    If only she could encounter the legendary Whirlpool, Freya thought. To a silver sorcerer, there was no adventure more enviable than finding a Whirlpool. It could save months or even years of hard work in an instant. The time saved could even be spent having a child with Ashe.


    Why did she suddenly think of that jerk? Freya wondered. Come to think of it, there was a time during a meal when she and Ashe discussed the Whirlpool. Ashe mentioned he knew how to find one, but that the secret was toxic. Back then, Freya wasn��t a sorcerer, and if she ended up living her life as an ordinary person, the secret would have been nothing more than poison, so Ashe didn��t reveal it.


    Shortly after Ashe left, she summoned the ��Echo�� spirit and became a sorcerer.


    Just a few days toote��


    If she had be a sorcerer a bit earlier��


    Maybe��


    Freya patted her cheeks, banishing thoughts of the troublesome man from her mind. As she prepared to continue her exploration, she suddenly heard a ��plop�� behind her, as if something had fallen into the water.


    ��Hmm?��


    The Bewitcher turned around and saw a diary floating on the surface of the sea.

 Chapter 378: Three Senior Sisters

    Chapter 378: Three Senior Sisters


    ��It��s going to release the Fish Light Dragon Poem in three seconds, move back three steps!��


    Upon hearing this, Sonya and Deya immediately retreated. Three secondster, the Raging shing Dragon unleashed a ring-shaped Water-Light de Edge. The sharp airflow narrowly swept past the operators, lifting their hair.


    ��It will be in a rigid state for three seconds next, then it will attack the first target in front of it. Sword Princess, I��ve already enhanced you, go finish it off!��


    Miracle: Single-minded Devotion: Love Sword!


    Ashe casually tossed a Love Sword to Sonya. Sonya felt her heart suddenly pound, and her whole body tingled, especially her waist, which felt like someone was hugging her. She gave Ashe a fierce re and then, using all her strength, unleashed the Evil Light Rending Wave sh at the Raging shing Dragon.


    The Raging shing Dragon raised its steely tail and smashed it down towards Sonya with all its might. At this moment, the warm yellow sword body barrier firmly protected the vige girl, almost shattering the dragon��s tail!


    Perhaps it wasn��tpletely broken, but Deya seized the opportunity to entangle its tail with the Water-born Thread and used the ��Fast Forward�� spirit to elerate!


    Under normal circumstances, the Raging shing Dragon would sense its tail being bound and immediately reduce its force to prevent damage, or even take the chance to withdraw its tail-despite its massive body, a mature Raging shing Dragon possesses surprisingly high agility and reflexes. However, due to the eleration effect of the Fast Forward spirit, it couldn��t react in time, and its tail was effectively ��murdered�� by its own weight and inertia!


    Great weapons don��t need human control; everything is a seamless flow of artistry.Don��t be fooled by Deya��s mastery of the Fist-w Sect��s derived ��w Line.�� Herbat style is entirely different from that of the Sword Princess Observer. The Water-born Thread attacks multiple areas simultaneously, and coupled with the naturally high armor of knowledge creatures, even the sharpest Water-born Thread struggles to shred them into pieces. Most of the time, it looks vicious but is actually just a teasing-level scrape.


    Her Water-born Thread is more of a trap than a weapon. When she sees the right moment for the monster to charge, she ensnares it with the thread and then elerates the monster��s movement with the Fast Forward spirit, using its weight and inertia to tear it apart.


    Ashe��s assessment of Deya as a control-based damage dealer is spot on. Although her control isn��t about ��stunning�� or ��blinding,�� and it��s even challenging to ��bind�� knowledge creatures, thebination of the Fast Forward spirit and the Water-born Thread miracle allows her to disrupt the rhythm of knowledge creatures and deliver fatal blows when necessary.


    When the Raging shing Dragon lost its tail, it ended up no different from a juvenile de Fish Dragon.


    After dealing with this Overlord Raging shing Dragon, Sonya looked at Ashe. ��How do you know so much about the Raging shing Dragon��s attack patterns?��


    While the Raging shing Dragon is the mature form of the de Fish Dragon, and Sonya could react correctly to the de Fish Dragon��s attacks, predicting several seconds in advance like the Observer was impossible. Fortunately, the Raging shing Dragon couldn��t understand human speech; otherwise, the Observer��s loud strategy announcements would have triggered its rebellious instincts.


    ��I only know about the Raging shing Dragon,�� Ashe shrugged. ��I��ve studied the de Fish Dragon series in detail over the past few days.��


    Leading the team through the Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord wasn��t a wasted effort. Now, as Ashe looked at the Raging shing Dragon, the original form of the Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord, he knew its every move, even when it was about to relieve itself. The reason they could speedrun the Raging shing Dragon in three minutes was because Ashe had been wiped out by the Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord three hundred times in reality.


    ��What about other knowledge creatures?��


    ��I only know about the de Fish Dragon series. You��ll have to brief me on the others.��


    Sonya raised an eyebrow. ��Hmph, always relying on me.��


    Deya raised her hand. ��Excuse me, the Raging shing Dragon dropped two spirits. Do either of you need them?��


    Asheughed. ��Witch, why are you suddenly so polite?��


    ��Of course, it��s because you two���� Deya saw Sonya��s hand move to her sword hilt. Without needing a reminder from the White Queen, she quickly changed her tone. ��You��ve made me realize I should get along well with my teammates, not be rude, and certainly not harm them.��


    Although it was a Raging shing Dragon, the spirits it dropped were somewhat distant from the Swords Sect, namely the two-wings spirits ��Determination�� and ��Heart Connect.��


    ��Determination�� has some rtion to the Swords Sect, while ��Heart Connect�� seems to be an Overlord Creature-derived spirit from the Raging shing Dragon. Compared to other Overlord Creatures, the Raging shing Dragon is notably better at rallying other group-dwelling creatures against sorcerers, using numbers to its advantage. If not for Ashe and his team taking the shameless route of upying advantageous terrain and using poison gas to first eliminate the other group-dwelling creatures, this battle could have been much tougher.


    ��Determination��


    ��Two-wings Spirit��


    ��Restriction: The sorcerer must possess cognitive abilities.��


    ��Basic Effect: Generates a period of determination, with duration proportional to spellforce consumption.��


    ��Passive Effect: The willpower of the sorcerer bes more resolute.��


    ��Will is sharper than any de.��


    ��Heart Connect��


    ��Two-wings Spirit��


    ��Restriction: The sorcerer must possess cognitive abilities.��


    ��Basic Effect: Establishes a link with a specific target, allowing all linked creatures to sense each other��s emotions.��


    ��Passive Effect: The sorcerer bes more empathetic.��


    ��There is no mutual understanding, only mutualpromise.��


    Clearly, both of these spirits belong to the Mental Sect, and the effect of ��Heart Connect�� is somewhat simr to the Sword Princess��s mental miracle ��Treat with Sincerity.��


    It is quitemon for miracles and spirits to have simr effects. For example, the famous healing miracle of the Fire Sect, ��Baptism by Fire,�� has essentially the same healing effect as the spirit ��Hydrotherapy.�� However, the former is a healing miracle that at least two-wings Fire Sect sorcerers can master, while thetter is a beginner��s perk for every Healer.


    Attack, defense, healing, mobility, reconnaissance�� Most spellcasting sects often excel in only one aspect. When a sect specializing in attack produces miracles that can also handle reconnaissance and healing, it showcases the sorcerer��s true capabilities.


    After Ashe and Sonya both indicated they didn��t need the spirits, Deya said proactively, ��Then I��ll take them-I need these two spirits.��


    Deya paused, as if feeling there was no need to hide the truth, or perhaps she couldn��t resist the urge to show off, and added, ��Actually, I��m taking them for my other sisters.��


    ��Hmm?��


    ��In both the Virtual Realm and reality, we only need one sister to control the body. What do you think the other idle sisters are doing?�� Deya asked.


    Ashe blinked. ��ying truth or dare? Beach volleyball? Dead or Alive?��


    Sonya realized something. ��They��re training as sorcerers?��


    ��It can��t be considered training, as sorcerer training must be linked to practice,�� Deya exined. ��But during their free time, they generally think about optimizing Miracles. The Miracles I use now were conceived by my sisters.��


    Ashe and Sonya immediately grasped the terrifying aspect of the Witch��besides the Secret Princess, she also had the White Queen, ck Butler, and Scarlet Dead Apostles. This meant that there were at least three sorcerers constantly working on calcting and constructing Miracles behind the scenes!


    Ordinary sorcerers typically spend their time improving their Sect Realm and summoning spirits, leaving very little time for Miracle training. This results in sorcerers having varying degrees ofbat proficiency.


    However, this is an inevitable trade-off��after all, the Sect Realm determines how much power a sorcerer can ��possess,�� while Miracles represent how much of that power they can ��utilize.��


    Sorcerers often start focusing on Miracles only after hitting their Sect Realm ceiling, trying to maximize their existing resources, transitioning from ��expansion�� to ��conservation,�� from ��extensive farming�� to ��intensive cultivation.�� Banjeet is a typical example��he��s been stuck in the two-wings sorcerer range for so long that he��s mastered the Ice Spell Sect, handling defense, offense, mobility, and healing with ease.


    Even if Banjeet conjured an ice house in the wild next time, Ashe and his team wouldn��t be surprised.


    In a sense, most sorcerers initially walk the path of being ��high-scoring but low-skilled.��


    Ashe is a typical example��though he doesn��t score high, he��s equally low-skilled.


    The ��Heart Pen�� Miracle given to him by the sword Princess took him a lot of time to master. As forbining ��Heart Pen�� with ��Single-minded Devotion,�� ��Rush,�� ��sh Me,�� and other Miracles into a tactical system, or even researching new Miracles based on these spirits�� the sword Princess might be able to do it, but for a student like Ashe, who barely passes his core courses,pleting such an borate graduation project is out of the question.


    And this is where the Witch��s strength lies��she��s not studying alone; she has three senior sisters helping her with her homework!

 Chapter 379: The Alchemy Throne

    Chapter 379: The Alchemy Throne


    Quickly integrating spirits into the tactical system, researching miracles more suited to oneself, enhancing one��s strength, and then acquiring more spirits�� Witches are typical adventurer sorcerers; a gradual approach does not suit them. Only by fighting can they leverage their advantages!


    ��Although my elder sisters can help me conceive miracles, their thinking relies on my mental energy. They can only engage in high-intensity thinking for up to eight hours a day; otherwise, it leads to physical fatigue.��


    Deya said, ��Mental energy can be simply divided into three types: thoughts, willpower, and emotions. Different types of mental energy have suitable uses. For example, thoughts are best for thinking, while willpower is more suitable for self-enhancement. However, it��s all mental energy. With this ��determination�� spirit, I can generate determination for my sisters, allowing them to think for longer periods.��


    Ashe blinked��wait a minute, your sisters already work for you eight hours a day, and now with the determination spirit, they can work even longer?


    Mom and Dad were right; there��s a reason not to go into business with family and friends!


    Who knew witches could be like this�� Damn, when will my Substitute develop the wisdom to help me with creative work?


    The physicalbor capability of the Substitute is no longer enough to meet the ever-growing demand!


    No wonder witches call them sisters. If my Substitute could help me construct miracles and think through the tactical system, I��d be willing to call him brother too!


    While Ashe was frustrated with his Substitute, who seemed to be falling short, Deya sessfully dominated two spirits. Although Lise��s spellforce was sealed in reality, preventing her from activating spirits, as long as she could induce virtual realm resonance, it was still possible to activate the ��determination�� spirit.In fact,pared to the determination spirit, Deya cared more about the Heart Connect spirit.


    Or rather, she needed the passive effect of the Heart Connect spirit: sorcerers would be more easily empathized with by others.


    Not to mention this effect can effectively increase Lise��s poprity, Deya herself desperately needs it too��maybe it��s because she has a younger sister now, or perhaps it��s due to the near-death experience on the night of the white mist mutation. Deya noticed that the White Queen and the others were less amodating and more strict with her. These days, she had to participate in Miracle construction work as well.


    Lise getting Ashe��s affection was already too much; she couldn��t let Lise steal the White Queen��s favor too!


    White Queen: ��You��re thinking so loudly that we can all hear you����


    ck Butler: ��To bezy, you��re even willing topete with a young girl for affection. How low can you go?��


    Deya: ��I was just thinking out loud, can��t I even do that now? Don��t I have the freedom to think? You��re all targeting me! You don��t love me anymore!��


    ck Butler: ��Really? Isn��t it because you want to bezy?��


    ��No!��


    ��Then say, sisters don��t deceive sisters.��


    ��I��m angry, and I won��t get better unless youfort me!��


    ��Then say, sisters don��t deceive sisters.��


    ��White Queen, look, the ck Butler is still targeting me!��


    ��You��re not even willing to say that!��


    ��ck Butler, calm down,�� Scarlet Dead Apostles mediated, ��Deya just wants to continue being our sister. What��s wrong with that?��


    Deya huffed. She didn��t care about her sisters�� teasing because this was an open strategy. The sisters would definitely give in��although theoretically, empathy should result in mutual concessions, Deya was the most willful sister, so they could only amodate her.


    Because Deya was the most willful sister, she still hoped her sisters could understand her feelings and believe in her once again.


    After Ashe had looted the resource point, he reached out to stop Sonya and Deya from getting into the car.


    ��Wait a moment.��


    Sonya was slightly startled and suddenly looked back at the mine: ��Oh right, this is a gemstone mine, which means����


    ��We��ve finally gathered all the materials!�� Ashe opened the upgrade blueprint for the sports car. ��Upgrade, Alchemy Throne!��


    The sports car seats began to split, reassemble, and transform. In no time, the ordinary leather seats turned into dazzling rose gold seats. At the top of the seats, a single drop of golden blood appeared, surrounded by Reverse Golden Rain, which seemed to be attracted to it, forming a golden ribbon connecting to the blood drop atop the seats!


    ��Alchemy Throne �C Level 1: Increases the absorption rate of golden spellforce by 30%.��


    Ashe used up all the essence he currently had, upgrading the Alchemy Throne to Level 4. The only change in the sports car was that the top of the seats now had four drops of golden blood.


    ��Alchemy Throne �C Level 4: Increases the absorption rate of golden spellforce by 60%. Next level requires Gem Essence, Crystal Essence, Mercury Essence, Wood Essence, Ore Essence, Golden Essence: 600 each.��


    As the most important essory of the sports car, the Alchemy Throne required a vast variety of essences, with gemstone mines being especially rare. After twenty days on the Time Continent, with the Celestial Bull making two rounds, Ashe finally activated the elerated training mode.


    But it was all worth it. The initial boost was 30%, with a 10% increase per level, and the sports car essory could be upgraded to Level 18, providing a 210% boost!


    Although there was still a long way to go to reach Level 18, let��s not forget that Ashe��s resource-gathering pace was slow mainly because he didn��t have a map.


    There are several rare resource points in the Star Shrine Area. As long as Ashe looted them one by one, the Alchemy Throne would soon be upgraded!


    When the sorcerers sat in the sports car, they immediately felt the difference between a luxury sports car and an in-game purchase sports car��the golden spellforce was pouring in!


    With a 60% boost, it was directly half more than before. Sensitive skin could feel the difference, and everyone loved it!


    Just as the sorcerers were enjoying the influx of spellforce, the driver suddenly mmed on the brakes.


    ��There are some Thousand-feathered Drakes ahead.�� Ashe��s words instantly made the operators tense.


    Asrge knowledge creatures, Thousand-feathered Drakes usually appeared alone in the wild. If they gathered in groups, there was only one possibility��they were thepanion units of a heroic soul legion!


    There was an unknown heroic soul legion ahead!


    Although it was still far away, Sonya instinctively lowered her voice: ��Are you sure this isn��t the Spider Tower area?��


    ��I can only say that the white bull needs at least another day to reach the Amnesia Cabin.��


    Actually, it��s not surprising. The Time Continent is full of heroic soulmanders, and normal sorcerers can encounter them just by walking, not to mention when they are driving.


    The surrounding area was open terrain, and the pressure from the Empress��s heroic soul was too great. Therefore, Ashe and the others didn��t dare to act boldly and nned to sneak past from the side.


    As Ashe approached, the virtual realm map refreshed with an area marked ��Worth Visiting����right in the area surrounded by thepanion units!


    Did the virtual realm map rename itself to the ��Treacherous Map��? It actually suggested that a few guerris like them walk into the regr army��s encirclement?


    But upon closer inspection, Ashe realized there were already people in that area��there were two yellow markers just like theirs!


    This meant there were two sorcerers inside!


    In addition to the two sorcerers, there was a red marker representing a knowledge creature and a ck marker representing an ��Unknown Entity.�� Since the Time Continent��s unknown entities are either sorcerer projections or heroic soulmanders, then��


    ��Are there actually sorcerers trying to kill a heroic soulmander?�� Ashe said in shock. ��Are they crazy?��


    Sonya reached out and patted Ashe��s head. ��I won��t allow you to insult yourself like that.��

 Chapter 380: Unfortunately, You Encountered Us

    Chapter 380: Unfortunately, You Encountered Us


    This wasn��t the first time Ashe and his group encountered other sorcerers in the virtual realm.


    Although the probability of meeting other sorcerers on the Time Continent is low, Ashe and his team drive fast, and Ashe��s virtual realm map can observe the surrounding 24 squares. Therefore, several times they could see the yellow markers representing other sorcerers on the map.


    Without exception, Ashe and his team always chose to stay away from unfamiliar sorcerers, never engaging in a ��fellow countrymen, shoot each other in the back�� scenario.


    First, other sorcerers have nomunication value.


    This is easy to understand. They are all two-wings sorcerers and mere passersby. Even if both parties feel safe to confide secrets because of the ��we will never meet again�� factor, what can different sorcerersmunicate about? Exchange Secret Toxins to infect each other?


    Second, other sorcerers have no assassination value.


    Unless it��s a special institution like the Happy Peace Firm, which offers ��chasing from reality to the virtual realm�� services, there is no interest conflict between sorcerers. After all, the virtual realm is so vast that there��s no situation where one sorcerer��s gain means another��s loss. Sorcerers have developed the virtual realm for thousands or even tens of thousands of years, and instead of exhausting it, they have enriched it more and more.


    More importantly, there is no benefit in murdering a living sorcerer.


    In the virtual realm, the value of a living sorcerer consists of three things: the soul, the spirit, and information.You can��t know which sorcerer you will encounter, nor whether they have the information you need, so information won��t be a motive for murder;


    Spirits do have value to be seized. If there were a way topletely annihte a sorcerer��s soul in the virtual realm, it could indeed capture all their spirits. But there��s a problem: a sorcerer only needs a thought to obliterate all their own spirits.


    Not only in the virtual realm, but even in reality, cases of robbing spirits are very rare, unless the spirits are stored in containers like Glowing Spheres.


    Even Shattered Lake Prison can��t strip criminals of their spirits; at most, it can seal their spellforce.


    Additionally, you never know which sorcerer you might encounter, so how can you be sure they have the spirits you need?


    If someone reallymitted virtual realm assassination of other sorcerers, the only possible motive would be coveting their souls. This isn��t umon; it��s said that many rituals require souls as sacrificial offerings. Moreover, even if there existed a miracle where killing another sorcerer and devouring their soul would yield Experience Points, it would be a typical storyline in the sorcerer world.


    However, Ashe and his group didn��t possess such ��fourth cmity��-level abilities. Naturally, they wouldn��t murder other sorcerers for profit. At most, they might kill a passing sorcerer for amusement, letting the unfortunate soul experience the world��s disparity and the unpredictability of fate, anonymously generating negative energy.


    But tonight, it seemed they might make an exception.


    ��This is the Death Arena.��


    As the sports car approached the ��Worth Visiting�� area from the other side, a magnificent circr arena appeared before the three of them. Sonya recognized the building at a nce and couldn��t help but speak with some excitement, ��My professor once triggered this special structure-it��s the most favored virtual realm building for battle sorcerers, bar none!��


    With the vige girl��s introduction, Ashe and the others realized that this building held a status in the hearts of two-wings sorcerersparable to the ��Whirlpool.��


    The Death Arena has three major features: after each battle, a sorcerer��s spellforce is fully restored; a sorcerer will only encounter an equal number of enemies; and only by winning a certain number of consecutive battles can a sorcerer leave.


    Winning three consecutive battles allows a sorcerer to gain the highest sect experience in their current realm, roughly an Experience Orb.


    Winning five consecutive battles grants experience equivalent to two Experience Orbs.


    Winning ten consecutive battles grants experience equivalent to five Experience Orbs!


    Even if a sorcerer can��t win, they can surrender in time, but the price is that the arena will drain their vitality, spirit, and essence before ejecting them from the virtual realm, effectively ending their virtual realm exploration for the night.


    Although two-wings battle sorcerers can generally defeat knowledge creatures, unlike silver sorcerers who might perish against a de Fish Dragon, sorcerers like Ashe who kill monsters, set fires, and wipe out ns daily are rare. Most sorcerers would be content to kill one knowledge creature and harvest one spirit per day.


    Even on the Time Continent, Experience Orbs remain a precious resource.


    Most sorcerers only have one way to advance their sect realm: intense study while they��re still young. Although some people may get smarter with age, it��s normal for learning ability to peak in youth. If a sorcerer can��t elevate their spellcasting sect to the Sanctuary level before they turn fifty, it��s likely they never will.


    Therefore, buildings like the Death Arena, which can reliably provide arge amount of sect experience without much risk, are naturally very attractive. In the book ��The Top Ten Tourist Destinations on the Time Continent�� that Sonya read, the Death Arena was ranked second!


    However, Ashe and the others were more interested in another aspect of the arena��s mechanics.


    ��Why are there two sorcerers fighting a heroic soulmander and a Thousand-feathered Drakes in a melee?��


    Sonya shook her head. ��I don��t think it��s a melee��it should be the two sorcerers fighting against the heroic soul and its minion.��


    ��Because most of the time, the Death Arena is empty. But when a sorcerer enters, the arena has to arrange an opponent. So, the arena usually temporarily grabs abatant from outside.��


    ��By the way, since sorcerers don��t belong to virtual realm creatures, the arena can��t capture sorcerers. If a sorcerer enters the arena voluntarily, the arena will most likely pull in a sorcerer projection to fight them, followed by knowledge creatures.��


    ��But if another sorcerer enters the arena, it will immediately arrange for the two sorcerers to duel, as it seems to prioritize sorcerer versus sorcerer battles.��


    Ashe suddenly asked, ��If a sorcerer kills knowledge creatures and sorcerer projections in the arena, then��?��


    ��They��ll drop loot just the same,�� Sonya said. ��That��s another reason the arena is so appealing��sorcerers don��t have to waste time searching for enemies; the arena will bring them in.��


    Deya realized, looking up at the arena obscured by the Rain Curtain, ��So, the two sorcerers inside are using the arena��s mechanism to trap and kill the heroic soulmander!��


    The arena prioritizes capturing sorcerer projections, and a heroic soulmander is essentially a powerful, modified version of a sorcerer projection.


    As long as they can lure the heroic soul legion near the Arena, the sorcerers can then enter the Arena, and the Arena will most likely pull the heroic soulmander inside to fight!


    ��Wait,�� Ashe pointed out a problem. ��Can the Arena amodate teams? Why aren��t those two sorcerers being forced into an internal battle first?��


    ��Those two sorcerers must know each other,�� Sonya spected. ��They might have used some method to make the Arena consider them as being on the same side, so the Arena brought in the heroic soulmander and his minions for them.��


    ��Why would they want to team up���� Deya began to ask, but the White Queen and the others already knew the answer.


    Not to mention thebat synergy between the two sorcerers, the most important thing is that this way, the ��unknown sorcerers�� don��t have to worry about other sorcerers interrupting their battle!


    As mentioned earlier, once a sorcerer enters the Arena, the Arena will prioritize arranging an internal battle between sorcerers. Now that these two sorcerers have teamed up, in this scenario, only another team of two sorcerers will be forced to fight them!


    But where in the Virtual Realm are there that many sorcerer teams?


    ��A brilliant strategy,�� Ashe marveled. ��Using the Arena��s mechanism to capture the heroic soulmander, effectively nullifying the heroic soul legion��s numerical advantage. And because of the surrender mechanism, even if they fail, they won��t suffer any losses�� I see, this is the proper method for sorcerers to kill a heroic soulmander. In front of the heroic soul legion, sorcerers are the weaker party, but in the Virtual Realm, the heroic soulmander is the weaker one!��


    Deya added, ��But isn��t it too coincidental? Two sorcerers who know each other just happen to meet in the Virtual Realm, just happen to encounter a heroic soul legion, and there��s conveniently an Arena nearby����


    ��It��s precisely because of so many coincidences that sorcerers killing a heroic soulmander is considered an impossible Miracle,�� Sonya said with admiration. ��Before, I wasn��t sure, but now I am certain that in the past, sorcerers have indeed used Virtual Realm buildings to killmanders. A sorcerer��s greatest weapon is not their spirit, not their spellforce, not even Miracles, but ��spells��-the art of utilizing the Truth of all things!��


    Although Ashe and his team defeated the heroic soul legion through sheer ��hard power����at least without any help from the Virtual Realm��they did not underestimate other sorcerers because of it.


    On the contrary, seeing themander about to be trapped and killed by their peers in the Arena, they felt sincere admiration.


    Even though they had never met, Ashe did not hold back his praise for these two unknown sorcerers: strength, luck, strategy, decisiveness�� they possessed all the excellent qualities needed to be legendary sorcerers. If they seeded in killing themander, given time, they would undoubtedly be legendary sorcerers.


    What a pity.


    They encountered the three of them.


    ��Sword Princess, is there a way to snatch themander?�� Ashe asked.


    Sonya looked at Ashe, her lips curling into a slight smile. She suddenly patted Ashe on the shoulder with a grin. ��Of course there is!��


    What a pair of conniving partners�� the Witch sisters thought to themselves.


    Normally, Ashe and his team had no need to attack other sorcerers, but this was not a normal situation: it involved the loot from amander!


    Not to mention themander��s handbook and soul summoning spirit, just for the map in themander��s possession, Ashe had to intervene!


    Typically, killing amander would drop a map. While maps are almost meaningless to ordinary sorcerers, Ashe��s ��virtual realm map�� could directly incorporate other maps and provide navigation. By killing all the factionmanders once and piecing together the map of the Time Continent, the Time Continent would be Ashe��s yground, where he could freely plunder resource points and experience Virtual Realm buildings.


    A nightly visit to Miracle Wondend to get free spirits, a warm-up at the Arena, and then a rxing read at the Legendary Library�� it would be so enjoyable that he wouldn��t even want to go to the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm.


    Moreover, Ashe hadn��t forgotten about the countdown to the Empress��s heroic soul��s hunt.


    If they happened to obtain the Spider Tower map, their chances of survival would at least double��if nothing else, just by running continuously on level roads without encounteringplex terrains like forests or swamps, they could shake off the heroic soul legion!


    For the sake of future resources and the current crisis, Ashe silently apologized to the two sorcerers��this project you did very well, please rest well, I will help you finish it off!


    As for Sonya, she wasn��t thinking that far ahead. She simply enjoyed plundering others�� gains and liked doing mischief with the Observer. The ovep of these two pleasures naturally made her excited: ��It��s simple, since there are three of us, we can send two people in as a team first, then the Arena will arrange a 2v2 duel with four sorcerers.��


    ��At this point, themander should be pushed out of the Arena, and then the third person enters the Arena immediately. The Arena will prioritize pulling themander back in for a 1v1 duel with the third person!��


    ��Just like them, we only need to use the Arena��s mechanism to easily snatch their hard-earned rewards,�� Sonya said, sping her hands together in a pious prayer. ��I hope they have already exhausted themander��s soul power.��

 Chapter 381: Reuniting with Valcas

    Chapter 381: Reuniting with Valcas


    ��Thismander��s soul power is definitely limited.��


    Ashe analyzed, ��He��s only brought a small squad of Thousand-feathered Drakes, so his soul power arming limit should be just enough to equip this group of Drakes.��


    The next question is, who will fight the sorcerer and who will take on themander.


    Sonya analyzed seriously, ��First of all, it doesn��t matter if we win or lose the team fight with the sorcerer. The goal is just to dy until themander is killed by the third person�� I think I should face themander.��


    ��Then should I team up with the Observer to fight the sorcerer?�� Deya asked, ��But how do we get the Arena to recognize us as a team? By hugging each other?��


    ��No!��


    ��Holding hands then?��


    ��That won��t work either!��


    The Witch looked at the sword Princess in confusion. The sword Princess also realized her n had a major w and quickly corrected it, ��No, the Observer can summon spirits for his armed troop type, so it makes more sense for him to go after themander.����It was always going to be me,�� Ashe nced at them, ��I still need to map out the area. Speaking of armed troop types����


    Ashe raised his hand, and a form-fitting armor of deep blue materialized on both the Witch and the sword Princess. The Witch��s fingers sparkled with sharp starlight, while the sword Princess��s long sword emitted a dazzling arc of light.


    ��Fortunately, we killed that Raging shing Dragon earlier, otherwise, I wouldn��t have enough soul power to arm you.��


    Ashe had exhausted most of his soul power in the Amnesia Cabin��if he hadn��t armed himself with the Level 6 Starburst Warrior from the Star Shrine, he wouldn��t have been able to suppress the Empress��s phantom.


    ��Why didn��t you save it for the fight with themander?�� Sonya was taken aback, ��I already said it doesn��t matter if we win or lose against the other sorcerers����


    ��If we really lose, a fewyers of armor won��t make a difference,�� Ashe said, ��Besides, I��m up against themander. At worst, I can surrender directly. But if you run into some weird sorcerer and can��t even surrender, getting killed outright����


    ��That possibility is very small, and I have the ��sincerity�� spirit to boost my mental resistance����


    ��As I��ve already used it, there��s no returning it,�� Ashe said as two warm lights glowed from his hands, casting one each on the Witch and the sword Princess. ��Also, here��s the Empowerment Sword����


    Because the names under Single-minded Devotion were too embarrassing, Ashe had to awkwardly rebrand them as ��Healing Sword (Joy)��, ��Empowerment Sword (Love)��, ��Piercing Sword (Anger)��, ��Slowing Sword (Sorrow)��, instantly lowering their grandeur to that of cheap knock-off Miracles.


    Sonya felt a tingling sensation all over her body, as if her waist was electrified; while Deya felt light and cool, almost as if she were falling weightlessly.


    With their pre-battle preparationsplete, the sports car parked outside the Arena. The Arena was a typical colonnade-style building; stepping into the corridor would instantly teleport them inside.


    First up was the duo of the sword Princess and the Witch. They exchanged a nce and opted for the hand-in-hand best friends�� formation. The moment they stepped into the corridor, they were teleported away.


    As the scenery changed, they clung to each other��s arms, feeling an unknown force trying to separate them. However, the bond between Sonya and Deya was not something that could be easily broken without investment. After a few moments of testing, the unknown force gave up, and they found themselves together in the sandy center of the Arena.


    ��Am I dreaming? Are there really two sorcerers here to cause trouble? The Revtion spirit��s message ��You will be harmed by those around you�� must have meant I shouldn��t act with you!��


    ��Alice thinks ming others like this is very low.��


    ��Alice isn��t even here. What does he think?��


    ��In reality, Alice is right beside me.��


    ��But isn��t Alice lying in a coffin��never mind, I don��t want to know.��


    The two sorcerers, whose ns had been thwarted, were now beyond shocked, nearly on the verge of infighting. The fact that they hadn��t exploded in rage already was surprising to Sonya. After all, if she thought about it, if an opportunity she had fought hard for was suddenly snatched away by strangers, an opportunity she might never get again in her lifetime, she would probably want to destroy everything too.


    ��


    The vige girl took a closer look, her expression turning serious. ��No wonder they dare challenge the heroic soulmander. They actually control a Dire Jackal Dragon and Thousand-feathered Drakes�� The zombified Dire Jackal Dragon might suggest a necromancer�� Wait, that Thousand-feathered Drake in ck armor, could it be the heroic soulmander��s follower that they��ve taken control of?��


    ��Witch, be careful. They have the ability to affect the mind. I have the Sincerity spirit, so I should be fine�� Witch?��


    Deya snapped out of her trance, her eyes narrowing in focus as she raised her fists nervously. ��Are we starting the fight?��


    ��Their main strength should be the Dire Jackal Dragon and the Thousand-feathered Drakes. Our best strategy is to find a way to kill the sorcerers directly, avoiding a fight with their monster followers,�� Sonya said. ��Who do you want to take on?��


    ����I want to fight the one with the fairer skin and prettier face.��


    ��Then I��ll take the one with darker skin and curly hair.��


    After the sword Princess and the Witch entered, Ashe quickly drove the sports car in.


    If the sports car could be considered a usable item by the Arena, that would be amazing. Ashe would definitely make it a point to visit the Arena every night during virtual realm exploration, using the sports car to clear a path to the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm.


    Unfortunately, only he himself was teleported inside the Arena.


    Ashe took a moment to observe his surroundings, but didn��t see the sword Princess or the Witch. Standing before him was a ck-robed individual holding a long sword, silent and with cold eyes, showing neither panic nor fear. This was clearly the heroic soulmander.


    Miracle: Heart Pen!


    Ashe��s first action uponnding was to use the Heart Pen to draw an ink mark trench around himself. The Heart Pen was excellent for setting traps, and Ashe could only use it for pre-battle preparations due to itsplex procedure. He had just acquired it and couldn��t use it effectively inbat yet.


    The enemy didn��t react while Ashe drew the ink mark trench. When he looked up, he saw the enemy had been watching him the whole time.


    No.


    She wasn��t watching him.


    She was watching the Heart Sword spirit created by the Heart Pen.


    ��Ashe Heath?��


    Ashe was stunned.


    This was the first time he��d heard someone call his name in the virtual realm��like being called by your real name online��it felt bizarrely surreal.


    If another sorcerer or a virtual realm structure called his name, Ashe could understand.


    But why would the heroic soulmander know his name!?


    The ck-robed individual lifted her hood, revealing pointed long ears, pale blue lips, a high nose bridge, and long, dark green hair. In life, she must have been a proud and fierce Elf, Ashe thought.


    Standing before Ashe was indeed a female Elfmander. Though Ashe had encountered many female Elves, he had no recollection of her.


    ��Do you recognize me?�� Ashe suddenly thought of a possibility. ��Are you amander from the Spider Tower? Do all of you know what I look like and hunt me as soon as I enter the Virtual Realm?��


    ��No, I��m not from the Spider Tower,�� the Elf woman shook her head. ��And I didn��t recognize you either.��


    She pointed to the Heart Sword beside Ashe and said, ��I recognized that. It is a spirit born from a fragment of my soul, a gift I intended for my child.��


    Ashe was utterly stunned.


    He looked at the Heart Sword, then back at the Elf woman.


    ��Valcas?��

 Chapter 382: Surrender

    Chapter 382: Surrender


    If one were to choose the person who helped Ashe the most in Shattered Lake Prison, the answer would be almost indisputable��not Harvey, not Langna, not 222, and certainly not Igor, but Valcas Uhl.


    Without Valcas, Ashe would have long since be a firework in the Blood Moon Tribunal. It was precisely because of the rare urrence of the ��Judgment Elf�� that drew out the deep-seated malice of the citizens of Kaimon City, that Ashe, the rapidly rising and notorious cult leader, barely escaped his fate.


    Valcas, of course, did not intend to save Ashe. Even when he sent the Heart Sword, Earth Sword, Wind Wall, and other spirits to Ashe before his death, it was merely to spite Sylin.


    Ashe did not think he needed to feel indebted to Valcas. In fact, after experiencing a series of ups and downs��escaping prison, fleeing the Blood Moon, joining the Funeral, escaping Azura, the white mist anomaly, being captured by Belldate, and more��Ashe had almost forgotten about the elf who had once shielded him.


    Encountering Valcas in the Virtual Realm was unexpected, yet made perfect sense.


    Upon a sorcerer��s death, their soul falls into the sixyers of hell, stripping away all emotions and leaving only the purest memories and soul. These are then transformed into sorcerer projections in the Virtual Realm, bing a legacy test for future sorcerers.


    This forced tradition prevents sorcerers from monopolizing intellectual property. Even if kingdoms close their borders, knowledge still circtes within the Virtual Realm, leading to the flourishing of sorcerer civilization.


    As a two-wings sorcerer, Valcas naturally became a sorcerer projection on the Time Continent upon his death. Since heroic soulmanders are transformed from sorcerer projections, it was only logical that he would be a heroic soulmander.


    �����Ƿ������½����ݣ�When Valcas had just died, Ashe had wondered if he might encounter her projection in the Virtual Realm. He just hadn��t expected fate to be so uncanny.


    But��


    ��Aren��t you a man?�� Ashe asked, dumbfounded.


    He and Valcas had fought each other before, and no matter how blind Ashe was, he could still tell the difference between a man and a woman!


    ��I haven��t always been a man,�� the heroic soul Valcas said calmly. ��After being a female elf for nearly a hundred years, it was only natural to want to experience the world as a male elf. This is a verymon thought among the Elf, and humans also choose their preferred gender upon reaching adulthood. Almost every elf I remember has gone through a ��gender-changing period.�� If they liked it, they stayed that way; if not, they changed back.��


    ��Apart from curiosity about the opposite sex, another reason was that I had my own child. ording to my thinking, if I didn��t undergo cosmetic surgery, living with my child in the future would arouse suspicion from the Beloved Church. But since I was already altering my appearance, I decided to change my gender as well. This way, at worst, people would suspect me of being a pedophile elf, rather than suspecting a blood rtionship with my child.��


    ��However, biomechanical modifications in reality are not recognized by the Virtual Realm, which only reflects the true form of my soul. So, I��ve reverted to my original appearance�� Any other questions?��


    Questions? Too many!


    Turning cosmetic surgery into gender change? Like opting to buy a house instead of just renting, because why not? This was aplete slippery slope!


    Although Ashe had heard many times that the biomechanical modifications under the Blood Moon were the best in the world, he had thought such technological advancements mainly allowed the lower sses to adapt to advanced capitalist production through mechanical modifications. He never imagined the middle ss would be so adept at this too��he couldn��t even tell Valcas had ever been anything but male!


    This did make things a bit tricky, though.


    Seeing Ashe silently raise his long sword, Valcas gently brushed her fingers along the de, assuming a standard swordsmanship stance: ��Do you want to kill me too?��


    ��Yes,�� Ashe said bluntly. ��Killing amander can yield a map, soul summoning spirit, andmander handbook, all of which are resources I desperately need. As I mentioned earlier, I am being hunted by the Spider Tower and can��t miss any opportunity to quickly increase my strength�� I need to protect the people I care about.��


    Indeed, Valcas had saved Ashe, and the spirits she sent had helped him immensely��without the Heart Sword, Ashe would never have been able to perform the sh Me Miracle and break out of prison; the Miracle of the Earth Sword and Wind Wallbination, the ��sword body barrier,�� remains a crucial part of his tactical system.


    But Valcas was already dead, crushed into a smear of blood by the Titan executioner in the Blood Moon Tribunal.


    What remained before Ashe now was just a memory of the past, a soul enlightened by the Divine Sovereign.


    Although Ashe couldn��t quite appreciate Harvey��s Necromancy Sect, the necromancers had a saying that was very true: the dead should serve the living, not the other way around.


    Even if he felt a bit uneasy, Ashe wouldn��t hesitate. He carried more than just his own life; he bore the future of the sword Princess and the Witch.


    ��To protect others���� Valcas nodded. ��I see, there��s no helping it then.��


    ��So, Valcas,�� Ashe took a deep breath, ��please instruct me����


    ��Can you not take themander handbook?��


    Prepared forbat, Ashe was taken aback by this request. After a moment, he replied, ����I suppose so?��


    The benefits of themander handbook were mainly inmand skills and sect experience, neither of which were particrly useful to a sorcerer like Ashe, who didn��t need themand skills and wasn��t desperate for a bit of sect experience.


    But why ask this?


    ��I can give you the soul summoning spirit and the map,�� Valcas said calmly. ��Can you spare my life?��


    Ashe was stunned for a moment. ����Why?��


    ��I no longer have any soul power left. Continuing to fight you would likely result in my death. If I can trade some resources for my life, it��s a deal worth making,�� Valcas exined. ��Unless it��s a war between Kingdoms, amander doesn��t need to fight to the death��dying here won��t earn any merit.��


    ��But thestmander I fought battled me to the very end����


    ��Perhaps he believed he had a chance to defeat you until the veryst moment,�� Valcas shook her head. ��But I have no soul power, no followers; my chances of winning are too slim.��


    ��But you��re not the type to surrender without a fight!��


    Valcas was slightly taken aback and asked, ��In your impression, what kind of person am I?��


    ��Proud, impulsive, emotional, and you like to provoke others with sharp words,�� Ashe said. ��Even if you knew you would lose, you would definitely try to fight me to the end until there was no hope�� More urately, you��re someone who would rather die thanpromise.��


    ��If you were willing topromise, you wouldn��t have died in the first ce.��


    The main reason Sylin forced Valcas to her death was that Valcas refused to give up raising her child. Despite being an Elf, Valcas ended up in prison, and Sylin yed a significant role in that. Yet, Valcas refused topromise until the end, insisting on viting the Bloodline Prohibition Law. It was only after beingpletely disappointed that Sylin decisively abandoned the child he had watched grow up�� or rather, the daughter.


    In a sense, Sylin was the ultimate double standard��he took care of Valcas himself but wouldn��t allow Valcas to care for her own child.


    However, it was precisely because of this contradictory understanding that Sylin so vehemently prohibited Valcas from repeating his mistakes��in the Blood Moon, ��selfishness�� was the only political correctness. Everything Sylin did was in the hope that Valcas would be more selfish and more adaptable to survival in Blood Moon society; this was his way of showing kindness to Valcas.


    ��If Valcas couldn��t be ��normal,�� then perhaps letting her die was the best oue���� Ashe didn��t know Sylin��s true thoughts, but he felt this might be what Sylin believed.


    After all, even someone as powerful as mayor Fenanshe couldn��t be in contact with his own son. In the vast Blood Moon, was there really a ce that could amodate a parent and child?


    ��Is that so?�� Valcas said. ��So that��s the kind of person Valcas is?��


    Ashe realized something. ��Valcas, you����


    The female Elf sheathed her sword, looked around, and walked over to sit on arger rock. Seeing this, Ashe couldn��t maintain hisbat stance and went over to sit cross-legged.


    ��What do you want to know?��

 Chapter 383: The Little Bat and the Bewitcher

    Chapter 383: The Little Bat and the Bewitcher


    Ashe thought Valcas had something to tell him, but instead, he was asked a question. However, Ashe indeed had many things he wanted to know: ��Start from after you died?��


    Valcas seemed to have no intention of keeping secrets and said calmly, ��After being killed by the Titan Executioner, my soul left my body, drawn downward by gravity.��


    ��It was like sinking into the deep sea, drifting unconsciously. But there wereyers of filters in the deep sea. When a soul flows into the filters, many impurities are sifted out, and only then can my soul continue to sink. After passing through sixyers of filters, I arrived at the Time Continent, constantly tumbling and floating, without even a self-consciousness.��


    ��But 72 hours after death, a drop of blood in my soul began to erupt and spread, binding me while also awakening my consciousness.��


    Valcas pulled open her ck robe, revealing a blood lotus on her corbone.


    For some reason, this blood lotus didn��t feel like a tattoo to Ashe but seemed to bloom from inside her body, much like the livor mortis Harvey had introduced to him many times before.


    ��And then I became themander of the Tomb Keepers of the Blood Tomb.��


    Ashe blinked: ��Wait, where did that drop of blood in your soule from? Why would there be blood in a soul?��


    ��I don��t know, I only know that this drop of blood was likely imnted in Shattered Lake Prison. Or rather, all Redeemed who die in the Blood Moon Tribunal must have a Blood Seed in their souls.��Valcas said, ��After bing amander, I understood the mystery behind this. For us Blood Moon Death Row Inmates, the Blood Seed in our souls erupts after more than seventy-two hours of death. If we are found to have themander talent, the Blood Seed directly activates our consciousness, making us Tomb Keepermanders.��


    She paused: ��All Tomb Keepers are born this way.��


    The selection mechanism formanders!


    Ashe immediately grasped the intention of the Blood Moon Sovereign-the Blood Moon Tribunal was not just a spectacle for public venting and a guillotine for deterring criminals; it was also the Blood Moon Sovereign��s interview site!


    Actually, Ashe had previously discussed with the Sword Princess and others about how the Divine Sovereign selects themanders they need. After all, two-wing sorcerers die every day, and it��s impossible for the Divine Sovereign to personally test each one. ording to Ashe and their conjecture, the birth of amander likely consumes certain resources and can��t be mass-produced. Otherwise, the Time Continent would already be as crowded as a subway transfer station with heroic soulmanders.


    Therefore, the Divine Sovereign must establish an efficient selection mechanism to obtain amander who can grow with as little time and investment as possible. At that time, Ashe and the others believed the most likely method for the Divine Sovereign was to use the Miracle of the Prophecy Sect to directly select sorcerer projections withmander potential.


    It��s normal for sorcerers not to know the Prophecy Sect, but the Divine Sovereign surely would, right?


    But whether it was because the Prophecy Sect was unavable or because this method was found to be more effective, the Blood Moon Sovereign used an ingenious selection method��the Blood Moon Tribunal!


    The threshold to enter the Blood Moon Tribunal was actually very high. Being sentenced to death by public vote as a Redeemed required more than just killing a few people; one had to stand against the vast majority, like Ashe, an infamous Cult Leader, or Fenanshe, a high-ranking conspirator. Such people were the most likely to possessmander potential.


    By nting a Blood Seed in them during the Blood Moon Tribunal, they would automatically awaken asmanders in the Virtual Realm after they died.


    The entire process didn��t require the Blood Moon Sovereign to exert much effort. The reservemanders would continuously be part of the talent pool for the Blood Tomb. Ashe wasn��t sure if the Blood Moon Tribunal was established to selectmanders or if it was discovered after its establishment that it was the best talent market. Regardless, in the Blood Moon Kingdom��s industrialized system, death became a part of production.


    The dead must serve the living, not the other way around�� No wonder Harvey both loved and hated the Blood Moon, the necromancer��s sanctuary!


    ��So, after bing a Tomb Keeper, do you still have your memories?��


    ��Yes,�� Valcas nodded. ��But I am left with only memories; Hell has washed away all my emotions.��


    ��What does that feel like?�� Ashe was very curious. After all, no living person isn��t curious about death.


    ��My memories are like books,�� Valcas said. ��They are written in the first person, telling various stories. Although I can read these stories anytime, they are just stories to me. I��ve never stepped inside them.��


    ��Anger, joy, sorrow, emotion�� these words can��t touch my soul. My soul is empty,�� she pointed to her chest. ��I have no heartbeat, and I can��tprehend anything from my memories. But ironically, our consciousness is born from these memories. Therefore, our only desire asmanders is to umte merit and ask the Divine Sovereign to retrieve our soul fragments from Hell so that we can regain our heartbeat.��


    ��With each soul fragment, I understand a little more of my memories. When I gather all the soul fragments����


    Ashe interjected, ��You will be resurrected?��


    ��I don��t know,�� Valcas shook her head. ��And I don��t care. Besides wanting to understand my memories, we have no other desires.��


    Ashe exhaled deeply. Even he found it hard to resist the temptation of ��resurrection.�� Though the path was fraught with difficulties, at least there was a glimmer of hope.


    He even wondered if he should try to achieve something significant in reality. Perhaps, even if he died, he might be reborn as amander and make waves again on the Time Continent.


    However, from reality to the Virtual Realm, from survival to death, Ashe realized they had never left the Divine Sovereign��s control. Even though he had never heard any teachings about the Divine Sovereign, he vaguely understood the different ideologies of various Divine Sovereigns. Blood Moon��s ��selfishness�� and Gospel��s ��listening�� subtly influenced society from all aspects, spawning different social waves.


    The Divine Sovereign��s strength was not reflected in the deterrence of power but in the implementation of will. Whether sorcerers were foolish or wise, rebellious or loyal, they would ultimately unconsciously enforce the Divine Sovereign��s will, bing forces that drive societal change.


    ��Here.��


    Ashe looked up and hurriedly caught the spirit and the map.


    ��Valcas��s hand-drawn map��


    ��Soul Summoning Spirit��


    Ashe opened the virtual realm map, and the system immediately popped up a notification: ��Map information has been updated.��


    However,pared to Demilo��s detailed Star Shrine map, which covered one-sixth of the area, Valcas��s map was much more modest, only documenting one-twelfth of the Time Continent. This might be because she had just started her position and hadn��t yet familiarized herself with the terrain of the Blood Tomb.


    The most noticeable feature of the new map was the three main cities of the Blood Tomb. Ashe noticed that the Blood Tomb had one fewer main city than the Star Shrine and asked why. Valcas exined, ��The Star Shrine was the victor in thest Great Appointment of the Six Nations, so it has the most main cities. Unless something unexpected happens, the Star Shrine will likely be the primary target of the five major forces this time.��


    ��What is the Great Appointment of the Six Nations?��


    ��It��s a massive war that urs every fifty years. I don��t know the reason for the war; I only know that it inevitably happens. Arge amount of soul power, followers, and evenmanders will perish in this war until the final victor is determined.��


    Fifty years�� hearing this familiar time interval, Ashe��s heart skipped a beat. ��How long until the next Great Appointment of the Six Nations?��


    ��Very soon,�� Valcas said. ��If calcted in real-world time, there are about seventy days left.��


    First Layer of the Virtual Realm, Sea of Knowledge.


    A small bat flitted through the white mist, suddenly sensing something and flying straight towards an area ahead. Soon, an ind appeared before her, with an orc gun sorcerer on it.


    As the bat transformed into a human andnded, the orc sorcerer immediately armed his heavy sniper, attempting to st the intruder with heavy firepower. However, the neer merely raised her hand lightly, and the orc sorcerer becamepletely paralyzed. Blooms of blood flowers appeared on his body, but they did not break through the skin, looking both bright and grotesque.


    Pop.


    The sound was like a pustule bursting, and the orc sorcerer exploded into a firework, dissipating and leaving behind a spirit and a Sorcerer��s Handbook.


    ��Does the necromantic Miracle have to be so disgusting��?��


    Even though it wasn��t her first time, Sivirin still found it hard to ept this scene. Although she was also a member of the Blood Saint n, her primary focus on the Blood Spell Sect made it difficult for her to understand necromancers�� fascination with livor mortis.


    Just now, Sivirin had used a single spirit to instantly kill the orc sorcerer projection. This spirit, known as the ��Flower of Death,�� was a benefit that every member of the Blood Saint n received.


    The ��Flower of Death�� has a single effect: it activates the soul blood seed within a ten-meter radius. Once activated, the seed kills the host, allowing the Blood Moon sorcerer to achieve victory effortlessly.


    The creators of the soul blood seed are none other than the Blood Saints themselves. In fact, the so-called soul blood seed is a byproduct of the Blood Embrace Ritual performed by the Blood Saints.


    During the Blood Embrace Ritual, Blood Saints disguise themselves as Healers and infiltrate prisons, embedding their soul blood into chosen Death Row Inmates. When the inmate dies during the Blood Moon Tribunal, their spellforce ispletely absorbed by the soul blood. The Blood Saints then retrieve the soul blood, converting it into nourishment for their source blood.


    Because the Blood Saints�� souls and blood are intertwined, the soul blood also invades the inmate��s soul. While alive, the inmate��s robust soul can resist the infiltration of the soul blood. However, during the Blood Moon Tribunal, the soul blood is immensely strengthened, and the inmate��s soul stagnates at the moment of death. This allows the soul blood to burrow into the inmate��s soul like a centipede, rapidly growing until it bes a ��blood seed.��


    Even in the Virtual Realm, Blood Saint sorcerers can detect the scent of the blood seed within a hundred-meter radius. By using the Flower of Death spirit, they can easily eliminate sorcerer projections harboring blood seeds.


    Although these sorcerer projections are merely a drop in the ocean within the Virtual Realm, the Blood Saint sorcerers�� rapid flight,bined with the umtion of blood seeds over years of Blood Moon Tribunals, means that Sivirin has encountered three or four such cases so far. This is considered a unique benefit for the Blood Saints.


    Alive, you are society��s fuel and our material; dead, you are the Virtual Realm��s fertilizer and our nourishment.


    Despite living under the Blood Moon for many years, Sivirin still finds it hard to ept this worldview: everything has a price, all items should be recycled, and the additional values of emotions, memories, and meanings are not recognized. Extracting thest bit of value from life is seen as the highest respect for it�� This extreme pursuit of maximum profit leaves Sivirin, who enjoys travel, photography, and cardistry, feeling exhausted.


    ��Ashe is living in another Kingdom now�� I wonder what kind of Kingdom it is. What races live there? What are its unique features? Do they still have archaic practices like bloodline heritage? Does their Divine Sovereign care for the people?�� As Sivirin pondered these questions while collecting her spoils, she transformed back into a small bat and continued her exploration of the Virtual Realm.


    Glug.


    The small bat hovered in mid-air, detecting the strange sound of a whirlpool in the nearby waters through her echolocation.


    A whirlpool?


    Sivirin��s silver wings had long been ready, awaiting the Blood Spell Sect��s promotion to the Golden level for her two-wings advancement. She had been in the Sea of Knowledge for several months but had never encountered a whirlpool, so she decided to investigate.


    Just as the small bat was about to fly into the whirlpool, a small boat emerged from it, leaving her no time to dodge. She collided directly with someone on the boat!


    ��Oh? I��m sorry, I��m sorry! Did I hurt you?��


    The small bat fluttered her wings, realizing she had been caught in the embrace of a Bewitcher sorcerer.

 Chapter 384: Blood Tomb Troop Type, Two-tone Anchor

    Chapter 384: Blood Tomb Troop Type, Two-tone Anchor


    Aside from the map update, Ashe��s soul summoning spirit also underwent new changes.


    The soul summoning spirit, previously a triangr bipyramid with six faces, had only one face glowing blue. After absorbing Valcas��s Blood Tomb soul summoning spirit, another face began to glow red.


    ��This spirit has sessfully absorbed a spirit of the same name, unlocking new troop types: ��Blood Minion,�� ��Adventurer,�� ��Blood Hunter,�� and ��Two-tone Anchor.����


    ��Blood Tomb: Blood Minion��


    ��Ranged soul damage +10%. 3yers of armor, free-form shape, can consume life to shoot Blood Arrows. Each unit consumes 1 point of soul power.��


    ��Blood Tomb: Adventurer��


    ��Melee soul damage +15%, movement speed increased by 30%, can plunder 1 point of soul power for themander with each kill of a war unit. 2yers of armor, humanoid creature. Each unit consumes 2 points of soul power.��


    ��Blood Tomb: Blood Hunter��


    ��Gunmanship and Swordsmanship soul damage +20%. 4yers of armor, humanoid creature,es equipped with a long sword and the Miracle ��Blood Frenzy.�� Each unit consumes 4 points of soul power.����Blood Frenzy: Applied to oneself, enters a state of lost sanity with greatly increased attack speed and movement speed,sting until death in battle.��


    While ��Adventurer�� might be amon name coincidence, ��Blood Hunter�� clearly pointed to the lifelong enemy of the Cult Leader, the ace profession of the Blood Moon Kingdom, the Blood Hunter.


    Actually, after hearing the Sword Princess mention that someone simr to the Star Prayer had appeared in her kingdom, Ashe had some premonitions. These Blood Tomb professionspletely confirmed his suspicions: the Virtual Realm��s troop types are closely rted to real-world professions, or rather, each Virtual Realm troop type has a real-world counterpart.


    Speaking of which, when Ashe was being chased by the Empress��s heroic soul, he saw troops wearing Red Hats from the Spider Tower. He didn��t think much of it at the time, but now that he recalls, weren��t they just the Red Hat security forces from the Gospel Kingdom?


    However, is it that the Virtual Realm troop types mimic real-world prototypes, or has reality infiltrated the Virtual Realm, creating these troop types��?


    Compared to the familiar Blood Tomb troop types, the new troop type left Ashe baffled.


    ��Two-tone Anchor��


    ��2yers of armor, 20% anchoring, each unit consumes 2 points of soul power.��


    ��Anchoring��


    ��When you encounter any external influence (physical attack, mental shock, curse debilitation, etc.) or self-change (consuming spellforce, enhancing yourself, etc.), there is a chance to trigger the anchoring effect. Once anchoring is triggered, for the next 5 seconds, you cannot be influenced by external factors, nor can you influence the external world.��


    Unlike other troop types, ��Two-tone Anchor�� doesn��t have a prefix like ��Star Shrine�� or ��Blood Tomb,�� indicating that it is not an exclusive troop type of any faction. Moreover, it doesn��t have any attack bonuses; its only feature is the ��anchoring�� special effect.


    At first nce, this effect seems very powerful: once triggered, you be invincible to external influences. But the problem is that when ��anchoring�� is triggered, Ashe also cannot influence the external world, bing a mere bystander��wait a minute, could this be an exclusive troop type derived from my title of ��apocalypse observer��?


    However, this troop type is exactly what Ashe needed. If they were really chased by the Spider Tower legion, this 20% anchoring could potentially help them avoid multiple fatal attacks. Even if anchoring limits their ability to attack, it wouldn��t matter��in the face of the heroic soul legion, theirbat power was negligible anyway. Their main strategy was to rely on the Sports car to gas the pursuers to death.


    After organizing his gains, Ashe looked up at Valcas. ��You��re just giving this to me, aren��t you afraid I��ll go back on my word? And if you were willing to surrender, why didn��t you surrender to those two sorcerers earlier?��


    ��I mayck emotions, but I��m not brainless.�� Valcas pointed to her temple. ��The Ashe Heath in my memory is a fool with an excess of conscience. Besides, I have no means to restrain you. When I give it to you makes no difference; I have to trust you. As for those two�� my memory tells me they are not trustworthy.��


    Ashe didn��t think much of it, simply assuming that Valcas had encountered unfamiliar sorcerers whom she didn��t dare to trust easily.


    ��Can��t you surrender and leave?�� Ashe asked, puzzled.


    The Death Arena allows for surrender. It��s normal for knowledge creatures and sorcerer projections not to surrender; after all, the former can��t speak, and thetter have no self-awareness. But a heroic soulmander, who is at least a form of artificial intelligence, why wouldn��t they surrender?


    ��You sorcerers can surrender because when the Arena drains your spellforce, you leave the virtual realm and return to reality,�� Valcas said, naturally using the term ��sorcerers.�� ��But we cannot surrender because after the Arena drains our spellforce, we remain here. The Arena continues to absorb our souls until wepletely merge with it.��


    ��Sorcerers and virtual realm creatures are different. While you outsiders can��t survive long-term in the virtual realm, you have certain advantages that we cannot match.��


    It was at this moment that Ashe truly realized he was conversing with a virtual realm creature. The virtual realm, for Ashe, was a ce of adventure, a dating venue, and an escape from reality. If Ashe ever decided to settle down and leave the virtual realm, he could sever ties with itpletely.


    But for Valcas and her kind, the virtual realm was their reality.


    The Reverse Golden Rain, the Arena, resource points, the Golden Flow�� these were rare wonders for Ashe and hispanions but regr surroundings for Valcas and her people, elements they needed to map and record.


    Life and death imposed an insurmountable veil between them.


    If sorcerers were tourists in the virtual realm, Ashe might be one of the few who deeply understood the local culture. While other sorcerers might at bestmunicate with a Raging shing Dragon through roars, Ashe had engaged in meaningful dialogue with two heroic soulmanders, learning truths that even Sanctuary Legends might not know.


    The Empressmander had even admired Ashe after their conversation, so much so that she wanted to keep him in the virtual realm-forever.


    Ashe mused, ��If I died in the Gospel Kingdom, would I likely be a colleague of the Empress��s heroic soul? But my body is from the Blood Moon Kingdom, and I��ve participated in the Blood Moon Tribunal. Would the Blood Moon Sovereign fight the Omniscient Weaver to im me as a talent?��


    ��So, only I can surrender and leave?��


    ��That��s correct,�� Valcas nodded. ��But if you insist on killing me, there��s nothing I can do. I��ve given you all my spirits before my death, including the soul summoning spirit. I no longer have anybat capabilities.��


    Ashe suddenly summoned the Heart Sword spirit. Valcas stared at the Heart Sword, lifting her head slightly to expose her smooth neck, as if waiting for an end.


    ��Do you want me to return it to you?�� Ashe asked.


    Valcas was slightly taken aback and shook her head. ��The Virtual Realm doesn��t allow the exchange of spirits. The moment you release the Heart Sword, it will vanish and escape.��


    ��Oh, right,�� Ashe remembered the rule.


    The elf woman asked, ��And you��ve upgraded this spirit to two-wings. Are you still willing to give it back to me?��


    Ashe countered, ��But wasn��t this a gift you prepared for your child?��


    ��You can keep it,�� Valcas thought for a moment. ��However�� speaking of which, I have a favor to ask.��


    ��As long as it��s not making me your colleague, I��m open to it.��


    ��During my final moments, when I was about to be executed by the Titan Executioner, ��Valcas�� had a message for her child. If you get the chance, please find that child and deliver this message.��


    I��m no longer in the Blood Moon Kingdom�� Ashe was silent for a moment and then nodded. ��Alright.��


    The elf woman gazed into the distance, as if reading the final page of a non-existent book, and with a cold tone, recited the story��s closing lines: ��I��m sorry�� You should live well. I��ve disappointed you. Never follow my path and vite the Bloodline Prohibition Law.��


    Ashe was silent for a moment and then asked, ��You said you have no desires other than ��understanding memory.�� So why do you want me to deliver your message?��


    Valcas nced at him, her lips curling into the only smile she showed during their entire conversation.


    ��Yes, why indeed?��

 Chapter 385: Déjà Vu

    Chapter 385: D��j�� Vu


    In Meph, in the wardrobe of a suite on the left side of the second floor of Belldate Manor, there was a row of White Ghost Mask and ck robe outfits. The White Ghost Mask had three holes resembling a skull, and the ck robe was wide and deep, looking extremely eerie even when no one wore it.


    Suddenly, one of the ck robes sprouted limbs and walked out, like a resurrected evil spirit.


    However, he couldn��t maintain his posture and fell directly onto the carpet after taking two steps. He removed the White Ghost Mask, revealing a pale and haggard face, beads of sweat on his nose, and cheeks flushed fromck of oxygen. He breathed shallow and rapidly, with a ��huff huff�� sound, his body aching so much that he didn��t even want to move a fingertip.


    Lung function impaired, poor contact in all parts of the body�� That damned girl! If you��re sick, go see a vet! Don��t let me run into you again!


    For the first time in many years, the Con Artist couldn��t help but curse out loud in anger.


    The more Igor thought about it, the angrier he got. The first time he encountered another sorcerer on the Time Continent, he ran into Harvey, an old acquaintance. Naturally, they teamed up to explore together and unexpectedly discovered both the heroic soul legion and the Death Arena at the same time.


    All these lucky opportunities piled up together, it was like the goddess of fortune was spoon-feeding him. Igor even wondered if he had exhausted all his future luck and would slip and crack his head on the bathtub the next morning.


    Although neither of them had received formal sorcerer education, no sorcerer would be foolish enough to not investigate Virtual Realm intelligence. In the Virtual Realm, where one could only travel alone, the only one a sorcerer could rely on was themselves. Moreover, the Death Arena and the heroic soul legion were not secretive entities, so they naturally had some knowledge about them.


    As the Con Artist pondered, he connected the dots and thought of using the Death Arena to trap and kill the heroic soul legion. After hearing this whimsical yet coherent scheme, Harvey��s onlyment was, ��When are you going to start a new venture with Ashe, reorganize the Four Pirs Cult, kill the Empress, and seize the throne? I��ll be content managing the morgue for you.��The necromancer who had long since removed the term ��cherish life�� from his dictionary naturally had no objections to taking risks, but things went more smoothly than expected. Igor hid inside a coffin that Harvey had hastily constructed, and the Arena recognized them as a team, teleporting in a heroic soulmander and a Thousand-feathered Drake.


    Though separated from her legion, the femalemander showed no signs of panic. She nced at Igor and Harvey, assuming a Swordsmanship Stance, while the Thousand-feathered Drake, covered in ck armor, appeared to be enhanced.


    But this was all within Igor��s n.


    Since he and Harvey were teamed up, the Arena would naturally send a two-person team to fight them. Igor had long anticipated an unstable factor. Thebination of ��heroic soulmander + knowledge creature�� was, in Igor��s view, the best possible scenario.


    Miracle: Domination of the Mind!


    This Miracle was the most rigid impression and quintessential hallmark of the Mental Sect��directly dominating other creatures and seizing control of their minds! The higher one��s Sect Realm in the Mental Sect, the higher the sess rate!


    However, this Miracle actually had poor effects on intelligent creatures. Even if a sorcerer hadn��t specifically studied the Mental Sect, just by navigating social interactions, managing rtionships, and experiencing the warmth and coldness of human nature, it was equivalent to Mental Sect training, albeit not to the threshold of a silver-level qualitative change.


    But for knowledge creatures, whocked social experience and civilization, this Miracle was extremely effective. The reason Igor could thrive on the Time Continent was that he would dominate arge knowledge creature as a mount every night.


    Even when encounteringmunities of social creatures, Igor was unafraid. He could temporarily dominate one or two social creatures to incite internal conflict, using hismand skills to annihte themunity with fewer numbers.


    Just like now!


    After seizing control of the Thousand-feathered Drake, even though themander had also armored herself, she was powerless against thebined assault of Igor and hispanions.


    Don��t forget, Harvey had also brought in a zombie Dire Jackal Dragon he made that night. With a total of fourmand units, Igor hadn��t fought such a well-resourced battle since entering the Virtual Realm. He toyed with themander, gradually wearing down her armor Miracles bit by bit.


    As time passed, themander grew weaker and weaker, and the dawn of victory began to embrace them. However, Igor did not rx in the slightest; instead, he became even more cautious and careful!


    He understood very well that this might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a chance to kill a heroic soulmander that might nevere again. ording to the Virtual Realm��s principle of ��the greater the risk, the higher the reward,�� killing themander would undoubtedly yield immense benefits, massively boosting his strength.


    And strength was precisely what Igorcked the most.


    Annan, the Weaving Festival, Yvaren Belldate�� although their personal safety was temporarily assured, this assurance was tenuous, a gift from others, and only because they still had value to be exploited.


    Igor did not fantasize about gaining the power to solve all problems just because of his current predicament. He still loved the game rules and respected the game order. But the issue was that they were still pawns, and pawns used by Annan to cheat. Their safety was not protected by the game; even if they died, it would simply mean one less game exploit.


    Igor just wanted a bit more say, a few more chips, a bit more room to maneuver with Annan and Yvaren.


    Among them, only Harvey had a promising future but was currently underperforming. Relying on Ashe was less dependable than expecting the Four Pirs to have a change of heart, and Lise was only good at causing trouble. Igor could only rely on himself.


    He had to rely on himself.


    Killing the heroic soulmander might be the turning point he could seize!


    The Con Artist gritted his teeth, pounded the carpet, and struggled to stand up with the help of a table.


    Those two damned meddling women!


    Why did they have to team up and enter the Arena at that exact moment?


    Igor watched helplessly as the heroic soulmander, who was about to be ughtered by them, patted her butt and left the Arena, reced by two fully armed female sorcerers!


    At that moment, Igor almost wanted to lie down in Harvey��s coffin and give up!


    He had nned countless social engineering projects under the Blood Moon, encountering numerous unexpected double-crosses, but none was as outrageous as this��this was the first time he had been thwarted by an event with less than a 1% probability!


    What made it even more infuriating was that they couldn��t defeat them!


    Although neither mental sorcerers nor necromancers excel in skirmishes, at that time, they had both the Thousand-feathered Drakes and the Dire Jackal Dragon asbat units. With the two of them providing support, their chances of winning seemed high no matter how you looked at it.


    However, when Igor tried to extract some interest from the two female sorcerers to recoup his losses, he was utterly shocked by their power.


    The red-haired female swordsman had terrifying explosive power, andbined with their strange armor Miracles, the zombie Dire Jackal Dragon was torn to pieces. Harvey could at most reassemble the bones and barely hold his ground. Igor fared even worse; the ck-and-white female sorcerer he faced had mastery over a Time Sect spirit. Whenever the Con Artist moved, he would overshoot his position,nding himself directly within her attack range, where she would bind his joints with threads and beat him senseless.


    Even though he surrendered and exited in time, Igor��s joints, chest, and lungs were still affected. The injuries to his soul were reflected in his physical body, and with his spellforce nearly depleted, Igor felt like a broken toy in a trash heap.


    ��Heart of Stone!��


    ��Iron Will!��


    Draining thest bit of his spellforce to add mental enhancements, Igor felt he could barely operate this machine with loose screws.


    ��No, it��s almost seven���� Igor walked to the bathroom. ��I need to take a quick shower and get to work�� Can��t let Yvaren dock my pay����


    After filling the bathtub with warm water, heboriously took off his clothes, turned on the showerhead to rinse his body, and then closed his eyes to wash his hair��


    His heel touched the bathroom stool, an ordinary action that seemed to loosen a bolt in his body. Igor felt his knees give out suddenly, his body losing bnce, and he crashed hard onto the bathroom tiles.


    Ssh!


    The water sshed loudly, as if shouting the pain.


    The Con Artisty on the tiled floor, water streaming over him, shampoo bubbles still in his hair. He hadn��t felt this humiliated even when captured by the Blood Hunter.


    After a long while, he slowly sat up, looking down at the water sshing on the floor. The stream of water hit his hair, trickling down his face and hair strands.


    ��Why did this happen����


    ��Why did we lose����


    ��Why did I miss this opportunity�� How could I miss this opportunity���� Igor bit his lower lip, watching the ripples created by the water droplets, his shoulders trembling slightly. ��There might have been a spirit that could release us from the Pact with Annan����


    ��Why did it have to be this time����


    Creak.


    Igor suddenly heard the sound of the door opening and closing from outside, followed by familiar footsteps tapping on the floor. He quickly rubbed his eyes and tried to make himself look less disheveled��


    Knock, knock.


    No one barged in.


    ��Are you okay? Need any help?��


    Igor was surprised to see a silhouette knocking on the bathroom door. ��Why are you here?��


    ��When someone falls in the bathroom, others are notified. Wealthy families always show their humanistic care in these ways. Ah, it��s good to be rich.��


    Igor nced at the green indicator light by the bathtub. When he fell earlier, it immediately detected it and broadcasted to everyone that a hapless Con Artist had taken a spill, inviting them toe and mock him.


    ��I��m fine!��


    ��Doesn��t sound like you��re fine. Why do you sound like you��re about to cry? Come on, how old are you? Falling and crying?��


    The Con Artist instinctively rubbed his eyes and quickly adjusted his tone. ��No, I just�� had a bit of an ident in the Virtual Realmst night, so my voice is a bit off.�� Since his physical anomalies would be exposed during work anyway, there was no point in hiding it.


    ��What kind of ident?��


    ��Can you leave me alone? I need to take a bath!��


    ��I��m noting in. You bathe, I talk.��


    Looking at the silhouette outside the frosted ss door, Igor suddenly understood something. His expression grewplicated as he carefully sat down in the bathtub, the water level gradually rising until it covered his chest and corbone.


    The warm water seemed to temporarily tighten the screws on his machine, and his rapid breathing gradually calmed down.


    ����I just missed a very important opportunity, one I might never encounter again.��


    ��That��s tough, but I had a pretty smooth explorationst night.��


    ��Are you here to pick a fight?��


    ��No, but even if you missed an opportunity, isn��t wailing a bit much?��


    ��Your rumors keep escting. What��s next, am I supposed to be sobbing uncontrobly?�� Igor retorted irritably. ��I just�� can��t see any hope.��


    ��What hope?��


    ��The hope of turning the tide.�� Igor��s voice grew somber. ��Annan, Belldate, Senhaeser, the Yisuo royal family, the Red Hats, and many, many more�� Gospel now only has two kinds of people: those who want to kill us and those who want to use us. Aside from that elusive Divine Sovereign��s Wish, I can��t see any opportunity.��


    ��Can we really survive the Weaving Festival? Is there anyone in Gospel who can help us?�� Igor looked down at his blurry reflection in the water, a drop of water falling from his hair and causing ripples. ��Harvey only cares about his Alice, and you��re so unreliable. Every day, I keep thinking, what to do, what to do�� I��m really at my wits�� end����


    Since arriving in the Kingdom of Gospel, the pressure on Igor had been mounting day by day.


    The Art Ranking and Family Ranking instantly made them the most talked-about doomsday stars in Gospel. Every day, Igor contemted how to deal with their rapidly deteriorating reputation, all while being watched by Annan and Banjeet. This dire situation, offering almost no way out, had left the Con Artist mentally exhausted. Recently, falling into Belldate��s hands only added insult to injury for their already troubled family.


    The defeat in the Virtual Realm Arena was nearly the final straw that broke his mental defenses. Igor felt as if Lady Luck had lifted her skirt only to pull a handgun from her thigh garter and shoot him.


    He knew thatining wouldn��t solve anything, but he couldn��t help feeling aggrieved. In the past, he would never have shown such weakness. The most crucial aspect of being a Con Artist was to always maintain the persona of having everything under control. Once that facade crumbled, no one would believe in his deceptions anymore.


    Perhaps it was the soul wound inflicted by the ck and White Sorceress, or maybe it was the recent head injury from his fall. It could even be the frosted ss separating him from Ashe, but for some reason, Igor began pouring out his troubles.


    ��Why not listen to the Gospel?�� Ashe suddenly suggested.


    ��Huh?��


    ��Look, we appeared in the Future Ranking, which means Gospel believes we��ll definitely survive into the future. This is a time to trust in the Omniscient Weaver��s power. Don��t overthink it; Gospel will help us.��


    Igorughed bitterly, ��I won��t even mention that we appeared on the ranking list because of deception�� But the problem is, I��m not on the list!��


    ��So you have to believe in Gospel and believe in us,�� Ashe said. ��Based on our friendship, if we��re all suffering in the future, how could we let you stay in the past and enjoy yourself?��


    ����Your way offorting people is really unique.��


    ��I wouldn��t dare try tofort a mental sorcerer, but if you really need us to do something, Harvey and I probably wouldn��t refuse. We might not be able to keep up with your thinking, but we can certainly share your worries. If we all stress together, you won��t be as stressed by yourself.��


    ��Hmph, you really have the self-awareness of an artiodact.��


    ��A Con Artist who cried after slipping in the bathroom shouldn��t be so arrogant�� Lise?��


    The bathroom door was suddenly pushed open, and Lise, dressed in a white maid outfit, rushed in. However, she slipped on the wet floor and fell loudly onto the tiles, sliding to the edge of the bathtub and lightly bumping her head against it with a dull thud.


    Ashe: ������


    Igor: ������


    But Lise quickly got up, patting her butt, and hurried to the bathtub, nervously asking, ��Aunt Bukin, are you okay? Did you hurt yourself anywhere? We should get a Healer right away.��


    Igor was slightly taken aback. When he looked up, he saw Ashe��s amused expression, as if saying, ��Even a child is better than you.�� His face reddened slightly, and he reached out to straighten Lise��s hair. ��I��m fine.��


    Seeing the unreserved concern on Lise��s face, Igor felt his heart melt like ice cream. Although he still felt frustrated, the Con Artist��s anxiety seemed to dissipate in the warm bath.


    He sighed, ��Ashe, I won��t be able to go to the canteenter. Can you bring me some breakfast?��


    ��No problem.�� Ashe opened the Gospel Book and sent a voice message: ��Harvey, bring some breakfast to Igor��s room.��


    Come to think of it, can Harvey even move? I remember he was bisected by that red-haired sorceress��


    At that moment, Igor suddenly noticed something. He held Lise��s face in his hands, his eyebrows knitting together.


    ��Why does Lise feel so familiar to me��?��


    A slightly guilty Little Witch and her nervous sisters: ����(�á㧥��;)�ã���

 Chapter 386: The Servant Ashe

    Chapter 386: The Servant Ashe


    ��I know you might not want to ept my gift�� but what if I wore garter stockings?��


    Yvaren lifted her long skirt up to her thighs, revealing an alluring glimpse of her fair skin. Dressed in his butler��s uniform, Ashe felt no vibration in his heart and continued to vigorously scrub the ss.


    ��I mean, even if you want to use your charms, don��t stand outside the ss. What��s the difference between this and looking at a risqu�� picture?��


    ��What if there were no ss and you actually tried to touch me?�� Yvaren pouted, taking out a notebook and jotting down observations, ��When facing garter stockings, Ashe Heath��s eyes be fixed, heart rate increases by 13%, resistance slightly weaker than with ck stockings, probably a T0-level fetish�� I��ve collected enough information. I��ll have an illusion sorcerer create a film starring you and Annan, incorporating all the elements that make your heart race. You��ll definitely buy it.��


    Ashe felt as if struck by lightning: ��Are you threatening me?��


    ��This is clearly a temptation!��


    ��What if the youngdy finds out? Besides, she��s not even my type!��


    ��Really? But in yesterday��s list of beauties, your heart rate spiked the most when you saw Annan. Maybe Annan isn��t your type, but given your current status, she��s the one who excites you the most. After all, you men have a desire to conquer�� Oh, does that mean you have an interest in me too?�� Yvaren pped her hands lightly, her eyes filled with amusement. ��If you��re willing to ept my patronage, I wouldn��t mind giving you a chance to pursue me.��


    ��Oh, please don��t make such disgusting jokes, I still have to clean the ss.����Damn it.�� Suddenly, Yvaren��s expression changed. The eye mark on her right eyelid red coldly at Ashe, sending shivers down the cult leader��s spine.


    She opened the Gospel Book, twisted her right hand, and pulled a tomato out of thin air, smashing it against the ss window. The expensive juice, worth hundreds of Gospel points, sttered all over Ashe��s view.


    ��You��re wee. Since you love cleaning ss so much, I��ll let you clean it slowly.��


    Yvaren left triumphantly, like a mischievous child who had just pulled off a prank. Ashe looked at the mess in front of him and had no choice but to continue cleaning up this unwarranted malice. He wiped the ss, mopped the floor, cleaned thempshades�� After two or three hours of hard work, the cult leader finally managed to thoroughly clean the corridor.


    At 11 o��clock, it was time for lunch break. Ashe put away his cleaning tools and went to the canteen on the basement level. By this time, dozens of servants were already dining there, and these were just the ones responsible for the main building.


    It was said that Belldate Manor had as many as 80,000 servants. The manor had canteens in various locations, including the forest, snow mountain, wilderness, and even hell, each with different vors. The canteen in the main building was considered to be of medium quality, while the one built above the hell��s magma received unanimous praise, making the servants particrly eager to be assigned to the hell area.


    But none of this mattered to Ashe. He approached the serving window and saw an array of dishes: giant mantis shrimp, basil red m meat, charcoal-grilled razor ms, Eden Zero L Fatty, teriyaki grabroot�� These dishes were not only enticing but also shockingly expensive, with none priced below three digits in bell points.


    Ashe took out his Gospel Book, which contained a ��Belldate Manor Card.�� His hard work this morning had earned him 30 bell points, which could be used for purchases throughout Belldate Manor. This was the only currency epted in the manor; Gospel points, silver coins, and other forms of currency were useless here.


    Servants could eat and drink without worrying about the price, but Ashe had to budget carefully. Of course, he could also order without any concern because his ��Manor Card�� had already activated the ��Bell-Pay�� service. If he overspent, his loan limit would automatically cover the excess.


    Ashe��s maximum loan limit from ��Bell-Pay�� was�� 100 million bell points.


    There was no interest, and the repayment period could be extended up to 10 years. This meant Ashe could spend freely, as it would be a problem for him to be in the Gospel Kingdom or even in Meph 10 yearster. No matter how powerful Yvaren was, she couldn��t time travel to collect debts.


    But Ashe only ordered the 10 bell points curry mush and the 5 bell points bread. Carrying his tray, he soon spotted hispanions. They were the only ones among the delicious delicacies of the canteen, eating mush, making them look like the lowest of the low among the servants.


    ��Where are Annan and Banjeet?�� Ashe asked as he sat down.


    ��Annan has been assigned to the prairie area, and Banjeet to the snow mountain area. Apparently, those are high-ie positions that can earn a lot of bell points,�� Igor replied. ��It seems Yvaren ns to take us down one by one.��


    ��Uncle Harvey,�� Lise asked, ��Are you sure that��s enough for you?��


    Harvey��s meal was even more meager than Ashe��s. He had only a bag of bread crusts and a cup of water, chewing the crusts slowly like a pigeon.


    Igor instantly understood: ��Harvey, what did you buy from Yvaren?��


    ����A skull.��


    ��A skull?�� Ashe was taken aback. ��You could easily get one from any grave after we leave here. Why buy it from Yvaren?��


    ��You don��t understand!�� Harvey said seriously. ��It��s the most perfect human skull I��ve ever seen. The alver ridge, brow ridge, supraorbital margin, infraorbital foramen, anterior nasal spine, nasal cavity, and alver process�� Not a single defect, no injuries, no cosmetic alterations, just pure, unblemished beauty in death. I��ve never seen such a beautiful skull in my entire life. If I had encountered such a skull earlier, it would have saved me at least a month of study!��


    ��In the past, I would have been willing to pay 10 gold coins for it. Now, it only cost me 50 bell points, and I couldn��t resist!��


    ��And now you��re stuck eating bread crusts.�� Igor��s face was grim. ��Luckily, you can still work. Otherwise, we��d have to support you.��


    Although Harvey had been nearly bisected by a red-haired female sorcerer, rendering his waist almost powerless, he could manipte himself using corpse control techniques. It didn��t seem to affect his daily life and work.


    ��Harvey is no longer dependable. Yvaren has figured out his weakness. He can��t even use ��Bell-Pay�� anymore. We can��t count on him to save money for emergencies,�� Igor said, looking at the remaining two. ��You guys haven��t splurged recently, right? You should have saved some bell points?��


    Ashe and Lise exchanged nces and fell into silence.


    Igor felt a sense of foreboding. ��Did Yvaren tempt you too?��


    Lise hesitated and then opened her palm. Inside her half-finger glove was a flexible mirror that she could squeeze and reshape without damaging it. ��Sister Yvaren said this is a special flexible mirror glove from herpany. It��s not avable outside, and she sold it to me for just 50 bell points. It��s such a steal����


    Igor knew how important mirrors were to Lise and her sister. He sighed heavily and turned to Ashe. ��What did you buy?��


    Ashe nonchntly ate his mush. ��I�� I haven��t actually bought anything yet.��


    Though it was just mush, it was quite substantial with mashed potatoes, carrots, and beef. Paired with bread, it was enough to fill his stomach.


    ��But you��re nning to buy something?�� Igor urately read between Ashe��s lines. ��Yvaren has already figured out your preferences and is preparing an irresistible temptation just for you?��


    Ashe responded righteously, ��Don��t worry, Igor. No matter how Yvaren tries to tempt me, I won��t fall for it. I��m not like Harvey, that mboyant fool.��


    ��You��re right, you��re not a mboyant fool. You��re just a fool.�� Igor looked exasperated. ��So, you��re telling me all three of you have spent all your bell points?��


    ��I haven��t bought anything yet!��


    ��I believe in you, Ashe. You never fail to disappoint when ites to being disappointing.�� The con artist rubbed his forehead in frustration. ��You had the nerve to tell me I could trust you and discuss things with you�� Idiots!��


    The three of them flinched. Hearing Igor��s straightforward anger without his usual sarcastic tone made them realize he was truly upset this time.


    ��Aunt Bukin, I only spent my savings. I didn��t use Bell-Pay!��


    ��Yeah, I still have some bell points left for bread crusts. If worsees to worst, I can eat grass.��


    ��Igor, could you at least use ��you all�� when you scold us? Otherwise, it feels like you��re only yelling at me.��


    Igor sighed again. ��Do you even understand our situation? Do you think just avoiding Yvaren��s gifts and not using Bell-Pay will protect you from the ��Dominance Sect�� influence?��

 Chapter 387: Dominance Sect

    Chapter 387: Dominance Sect


    Let��s rewind to the early morning of May 20th.


    When Yvaren Belldate captured the Funeral Firm group, she didn��t hand them over to the Red Hat, nor did she preemptively eliminate Ashe and Harvey. Instead, she made a strange deal with Annan: Yvaren would protect their whereabouts and even provide them withfortable amodations, but they were only allowed to operate within her manor and were forbidden from leaving without permission.


    Additionally, as soon as the six of them collectively earned 6000 bell points, the deal would be over, and the Funeral Firm group would regain their freedom.


    There were six of them, meaning each person needed to earn 1000 bell points. Yvaren offered them various positions, where working eight hours a day could earn them 60 bell points, and overtime could yield up to 100 bell points.


    In theory, without eating or drinking, they could all escape within ten days at most.


    The fairness of this deal was undeniable. With Annan, the head of the Funeral Firm, personally supervising and detailing all the specifics, it was impossible for Yvaren to exploit any loopholes to trap them.


    However, the deal itself was quite peculiar.


    Ashe initially thought Yvaren wanted to use this to coerce them into practicing Criminal Law, but the jobs Yvaren provided were all quite normal: cleaning corridors, trimming gardens, hanging clothes to dry�� there was even a position for a healer. The only challenge was the sheer volume of work due to the size of the Belldate manor.


    The only overt pitfall was that food and drink required spending bell points, which would significantly slow down their umtion of points. Thus, Ashe and the others�� initial n was to work without spending, relying on Banjeet��s suitcase for sustenance.They hadn��t forgotten that Banjeet carried a lot of emergency rations.


    However, Banjeet exined that his emergency rations were plentiful but insufficient to support six people for over ten days, especially given that they needed to perform high-intensity work daily. Fresh, nutritious food was necessary to sustain their bodies.


    Moreover, Annan also mentioned, ��If you only save money without spending it, you��ll easily fall into Yvaren��s trap. Belldate loves people like you who dy gratification and force yourselves to endure hardship. You use future expectations to ovee present difficulties, continuously putting pressure on yourselves. When an irresistible temptation appears, you��ll use the word ��reward�� to hypnotize yourselves, squandering your wealth for a moment of happiness.��


    ��The so-called currency only has value when it circtes. If you don��t use it at all, it��s just numbers on a ledger, and it��s easier to spend it thoughtlessly. Even if it��s just to understand the value of bell points and to cherish your earnings, you should use bell points to buy food.��


    ��I can only remind you of one thing: at most, you can only use the bell points you earn yourselves. You must never use ��Bell-Pay�� or ept any gifts from Yvaren, unless she explicitly says, ��This is an unconditional gift for you.����


    ��Bell-Pay and gifts are the most sinister Miracles of Belldate, the crowning achievements of the Dominance Sect.��


    When Annan unveiled the mysteries of the Dominance Sect, Ashe and the others finally understood Yvaren��s cunning intentions.


    The Dominance Sect is an ancient faction with a long history, a derivative of the Mental Sect, also known as the ��Envement Sect.��


    Its name says it all��dominating others, enving all things.


    It is said that during the chaotic times a millennium ago, the Dominance Sect was at its peak. Any powerful faction inevitably had high-ranking domination sorcerers. Only domination sorcerers could represent theprehensivebat power of a faction; factions without domination sorcerers were nothing more than insignificant riffraff.


    The reason lies in the domination sorcerers�� ability to possess thebat power to fight against thousands. This is not a metaphor; it��s the literal ��one against ten thousand��: domination sorcerers could enve legions numbering over ten thousand,manding them to destroy ssical armies that relied on shoutedmands and foot messengers.


    Even sorcerers of the same rank could notpete with a domination sorcerermanding a structured legion. Titles like ��Strategic Sorcerer�� and ��Legion Sorcerer�� allowed the Dominance Sect to look down on other spellcasting factions. There was even a period when the saying ��the end of spellcasting is domination�� became popr.


    However, the greatest enemy of the Spellcasting Sect is the development of the times, the progress of spellcasting, and the ever-changing human heart.


    When the Yisuo Royal Family unified the Gospel, the demand for war was suppressed to the extreme, and the disadvantages of the Dominance Sect were magnified instantly: domination sorcerers often controlled specificbat beasts, such as wolves, cats, rats, pigs, and so on. In times of war, these beasts could be sustained or bred for battle, but without war, there was no reason to maintain these private assets of the domination sorcerers.


    A domination sorcerer without a legion was merely a downgraded version of a mental sorcerer. Domination sorcerers also tried to reverse the trend by having their legions engage in production and mining, but even the most agile beast couldn��tpete with the clumsiest orc.


    As for using the Dominance Sect to run livestock farming��it wasn��t impossible, but ordinary people without the Dominance Sect could also shepherd sheep and raise pigs quite well.


    Not all military facilities can be converted to civilian businesses.


    This wasn��t even a slow decline; after all, a decline is a gradual process. The Dominance Sect instantaneously copsed on the day the Gospel was unified, celebrating peace with its demise.


    ording to the historical process, perhaps if the Gospel fell into chaos again or if there was arge-scale war between Kingdoms, the Dominance Sect would be dug up from the annals of history and updated, blooming with even more brilliant and cruel colors.


    Royal power is not eternal; only interests are evesting.


    But the Belldate family sessfully halted the wheels of history, bing the only reverse-trend powerhouse in the entire Gospel��they invented Miracles that could dominate intelligent creatures.


    The reason the Dominance Sect only enved beasts and not intelligent creatures��even those regarded as the ��scum�� of intelligent beings like orcs, ogres, and goblins��was that intelligent creatures possess civilization and canmunicate, which means they can umte knowledge and enhance their wisdom.


    Wisdom is not a fixed attribute. For example, an orc who graduated from university undoubtedly has greater wisdom than a human who grew up in the jungle with beasts. As long as one keeps acquiring new knowledge, forming their own worldview, and learning to think, their wisdom will gradually increase.


    And the natural enemy of the Dominance Sect is wisdom.


    The essence of domination is to ��impose one��s will upon others,�� making one��smands the fate of enved creatures and one��s will their sole directive.


    Why are beasts easier to dominate? Because theyck sufficient wisdom. Even if they resist, they don��t know why they resist, how to resist, or what to do after resisting. The process of domination is akin to telling them, ��Listen to me, and you��ll be well-fed, well-watered, and warm.�� The beasts think this is eptable, so they submit to envement.


    Intelligent creatures, however, can think, desire more, and question, ��Can I just eat without working?�� ��I don��t want to go,�� ��Is it possible you could be my ve?�� One or two such creatures are manageable, but when their numbers reach thousands or tens of thousands, the difficulty of domination increases exponentially, rendering control impossible.


    A domination sorcerer who can enve a legion of ten thousand beasts can at most dominate ten intelligent creatures. Moreover, beasts almost never rebel, but intelligent creatures have a high likelihood of betraying the sorcerer out of dissatisfaction.


    So, how many intelligent creatures has Belldate dominated?


    ording to statistics, Meph had a permanent poption of 7.958 million in 1687. And that��s just a fraction because, unlike Vamora, Belldate��s influence extends throughout the Gospel. The total number of people she dominates likely exceeds ten million.


    Belldate achieved this astonishing feat bybining the Dominance Sect with the Ritual Sect, leveraging the power of the Virtual Realm.


    Belldate doesn��t strive for 100% domination over other beings, and Yvaren doesn��t possess the vastness needed to control the souls of millions. Instead, they utilize mutually beneficial Pacts to a certain extent��offering sufficient benefits in exchange for a portion of the subjects�� cognitive abilities.


    It��s said to be a peculiar sensation; the dominated individuals don��t feel as if another person has taken residence in their minds��Belldate doesn��t have the time to delve into the tumultuous thoughts of every mortal. In fact, surveys show that the people of Meph consider this a ��profitable deal,�� ��a bargain,�� ��Belldate got the short end of the stick.��


    But is Belldate really losing out?


    ording to statistics, Meph ranks first in the Gospel for average working hours per capita,st in aging poption, first in consumption levels, and has a popce that is universally in debt.


    The seemingly ipatible terms ��advance consumption for entertainment,�� ��high-intensity work,�� and ��marriage and childbirth�� aremon characteristics of every Mephn. Despite getting married and having children, each Mephn also works intensely every day, spends all their ie, often overdrawing their credit limits during holidays, and then returns to high-intensity work.


    When they reach the age of fifty and their physical functions begin to decline, Mephns suddenly develop desires to ��relive their adventure dreams,�� ��embrace life��s challenges,�� or ��explore the vast Gospel.�� They voluntarily vacate their jobs, spend all their money, and venture into the Abyss, towering mountains, or other life-threatening ces, effectively ending their lives. As a result, Meph maintains a healthy poption structure, with bustling streets filled with young and robust individuals, and hardly a single elderly person in sight, always vibrant and dynamic.


    Incidentally, the city with the highest aging poption is Vamora.


    Every Mephn feels normal and believes their life is joyful and fulfilling, and this is precisely what makes Belldate so terrifying.


    Belldate uses Rituals to convert the cognitive abilities of millions of people into her own mental processing power, subtly influencing every dominated individual through mental threads. Simply put, Belldate uses the cognitive resources provided by the Mephns to dominate them. Thus, even though Yvaren is only a two-wings sorcerer, she can easily wield mental control over millions of people.


    Belldate doesn��t attempt to forcibly dominate the popce withmands like ��work until you die,�� ��give me all your money,�� or mit suicide if your efficiency drops to make way for the young.�� Such orders would be met with resistance. Instead, she subtly modifies Mephns on a cognitive level with sweetened concepts like ��pursue your dreams,�� ��reward yourself,�� and ��take risks before you grow old,�� transforming them into the producers and consumers she needs.


    The Belldate Corporation has maintained its stronghold in Meph for many years, even iming the era��s dividends in the city on the second level for itself. This sess demonstrates that they have sessfully transformed the Dominance Sect into a new version that adapts to a civilized society.


    The medium through which Belldate dominates the masses is money, or more specifically, loans.


    They provide the entire society with interest-free loans that can be borrowed at any time and repaid over years, but the coteral is the borrower��s shared cognitive abilities. The more one borrows, the greater the share of their cognitive abilities.


    How the people of Meph dealt with this in the past is unknown, but today, nearly all Mephns treat ��Bell-Pay loans�� as their personal wallets, spending recklessly in their youth.


    If they collectively defaulted, Belldate might face a financial crisis. Interestingly, once Mephns reach adulthood, they work hard to repay their loans and then continue borrowing and spending. The term ��defaulter�� is almost non-existent in Meph.


    ��Rather than calling it the Dominance Sect, it should be called the Money Sect,�� Annan summarized. ��Now you understand why Yvaren asked us to save 6000 bell points? She��s simply providing you with a channel to spend, luring you into using Bell-Pay, which then allows her to infiltrate your mind and transform you into the ves she needs.��


    ��Do not ept any gifts from her unless she explicitly states that they are unconditional. As long as she hasn��t dered it, it remains her property. Every second you use it, you are encroaching on her assets, and she can demand repayment with your cognitive abilities.��


    Igor had a question: ��Why don��t Azura, Vamora, and other ces adopt this effective Money Sect method? Why is it only Belldate using it?��


    Annan replied, ��Because not every Family has an Angel ancestor.��


    The fundamental reason Belldate can dominate millions is that each of their loans is bound by a ��money for cognitive abilities�� Pact. The true enforcer of these Pacts is not Yvaren, nor her ancestors, but the Virtual Realm.


    Only the Virtual Realm can support such high-frequency contracts, urring millions of times daily. In a sense, Belldate��s real backing is the Virtual Realm.


    Even if other Families wanted to emte Belldate, without the Virtual Realm, they wouldn��t be able to dominate even a few dozen people, let alone run a small to medium-sized enterprise.


    In the past, Annan and the others did not understand how Belldate managed to secure the support of the Virtual Realm. It wasn��t until the Family Ranking was released that they understood��the Necromancy Angel, although not leaving a legacy for the family, left behind a golden key for her descendants to enve all beings.


    ��The Necromancy Sect and the Dominance Sect have simrities,�� Harvey exined. ��The Dominance Sect enves the living, while the Necromancy Sect creates and enves the dead. The Necromancy Angel was able to extrapte from this and invent new dominance Miracles. It might seem off-track, but it��s quite reasonable.��


    By now, everyone understood their next goals.


    Earn 6000 bell points.


    And avoid owing Yvaren anything.


    ��And yet you still dare to buy things from Yvaren!�� Igor mmed the table in anger. ��Today, you think it��s okay to use the bell points you��ve earned. Tomorrow, you��ll think it��s okay to use a little Bell-Pay. The day after, you��ll be mortgaging your brain for cheap! This is how she gradually breaks down your psychological defenses until you let down your guard and be ves to that vile glue woman!��


    Harvey raised his hand. ��Igor����


    ��Harvey, can��t you be a bit more mindful?�� Igor sighed. ��Everyone knows you love the Necromancy Sect. Everyone sees that you will inherit the Angel��s mantle one day. And the Angel whose grave you��re digging up is Yvaren��s ancestor. Do you think she has any goodwill towards you? She just wants to use you to reim her ancestor��s legacy. How can you still dare to buy her things? If I were you, I��d consider myself a corpse already and avoid listening to, seeing, or speaking to that venomous woman!��


    Lise also raised her hand. ��Aunt Bukin����


    ��You don��t get to speak either!�� Igor red at Lise. ��Can��t you use a hand mirror? Do you really need to seek that little convenience? Didn��t Ashe teach you not to talk to strangers? Yvaren is like a female Ogre who preys on children. Why would you still interact with her?��


    Ashe raised his hand with aplicated expression. ��Male Bewitcher, that����


    Igor, growing more and more furious, interrupted, ��Ashe, you��re the most ridiculous. This morning, you swore you could resist temptation, and now you��re already feeling weak. Let me guess, is she seducing you? Can��t you hold out for a few days or take care of it yourself? Please don��t tell me you��re attracted to Yvaren, that Dwarf.��


    ��Igor Bukin.��


    Igor was slightly stunned and turned his head slowly to see the blue-haired girl standing behind him.


    ��Sorry, the Dwarf wants to see you. Pleasee with me.��


    ����No problem.�� The Con Artist quicklyposed himself, following Yvaren out as if nothing had happened. But before leaving, he turned and red at Ashe and the others, as if questioning why they hadn��t warned him.


    However, Ashe and the others felt wronged. They had tried several times to interrupt Igor, but the Con Artist��s Miracle of speech was released so quickly and urgently that they could only watch as Igor repeatedly insulted Yvaren.


    ��Do you think a coffin can fit two people?�� Harvey suddenly asked.


    Ashe thought for a moment. ��I think it��s possible. Igor is quite slim.��


    Lise blinked, confused. ��Huh (�ѡ���)?��


    Ashe patted Lise��s head. ��Lise, today it��s just the three of us having dinner. No one else, got it?��


    Lise��s eyes widened in shock. ����(��� ��|||) You mean you guys have already decided Aunt Bukin is doomed!?��

 Chapter 388: Wanting to Be Belldates Dog

    Chapter 388: Wanting to Be Belldates Dog


    Mental damagepensation.


    This concept, which Ashe had previously dismissed as an irrelevant fantasy akin to ��team-building on a workday,�� suddenly became a reality for him��for the first time, he found himself on the hook for mental damagepensation.


    The usation was that ��when Igor insulted Miss Yvaren, you remained silent and did not intervene, thus beingplicit in the group bullying of Miss Yvaren.��


    Ashe almost wanted to apud Gospel��s robust legal system for allowing lower-ss workers to bully capitalists. The most rming part was that, after spending 1 Gospel point to verify, he found that Gospel indeed ruled in such a manner.


    However, this was a civil matter. If the people do not bring it up, Gospel will not pursue it. Even if pursued, it would not matter much. Although the victim could make reasonable demands of the perpetrator, if the perpetrator refused toply, Gospel would at most lower their ranking list evaluation, and only by a tiny bitpared to the Blood Moon, which ces a high value on human rights and freedom of speech, Gospel is surprisingly lenient on public opinion. Unless it causes significant social impact, Gospel is extremely tolerant of casual remarks.


    The Blood Moon prohibits racial, gender, and educational discrimination because these forms of discrimination genuinely exist there. Conversely, Gospel��s indifference to public opinion is because the popce harbors little resentment, or they hide it well. Casual remarks and heated words are notuded but are instead criticized and educated by rational individuals, exemplifying the idea of good currency driving out bad.


    Although Ashe and hispanions had only traveled through a small part of Gospel, just from the cities of Azura, Vamora, and Meph, they no longer expected Gospel to have any PVP zones.


    Other kingdoms might have areas where ��the sun does not reach every shadow,�� but in Gospel, the ��radiance of Gospel is truly omnipresent.��


    Casual remarks wouldn��t incur significant punishment, but this leniency only applied to ordinary people.Now that Ashe and hispanions had fallen into Belldate��s hands, this small mental damagepensation was just a scout probing their psychological defenses. If Ashe dared to refuse thepensation, he could expect to dream of himself turning into Miss Belldate��s husky tonight.


    Of course, Yvaren couldn��t make excessive demands. Gospel is fair and just, so the detestable blue-haired dwarf made a small request: aside from Lise, both Ashe and Harvey had to wear weights all afternoon as a sign of their sincere apology.


    She didn��t let Lise off out of respect for the elderly or the young. Gospel has protectionws for minors, and Lise was still just a child. A simple apology would suffice. Adults shouldn��t hold grudges against children.


    However, as Lise��s nominal guardian, Ashe had to bear Lise��s share of the burden too-double the weights.


    As for Igor, Ashe couldn��t even imagine the torment he was enduring. However, Igor��s most valuable asset was his appearance, so he might have to sacrifice his looks a bit�� Damn, he suddenly couldn��t take pleasure in Igor��s misfortune.


    ��Hu�� ha����


    Wearing double his body weight while cleaning, Ashe was exhausted to the point of nausea. He could barely lift the cloth in his hand. He wanted to just lie down and rest, but he forced himself to wet the cloth and continue wiping the dust off the statues.


    Even though no one was supervising Ashe��s work, he didn��t dare ck off. By epting the cleaning task, he had essentially made a Pact with Yvaren: Ashe wouldplete the work, and Yvaren would pay him in bell points.


    In theory, Ashe could totally touch fish and earn Yvaren��s money, thereby reverse-exploiting the big capitalist Belldate.


    But the problem was, no one supervising Ashe didn��t mean Gospel wasn��t supervising, or that the Virtual Realm wasn��t.


    Belldate herself wasn��t terrifying; it was the iron fist behind her that was.


    The phrase ��you can��t take advantage of Belldate�� applied to all employees working for her. If Ashe took the sry without doing the work, it would be considered a breach of thebor Pact. He would then have to open his mental window and thought pce to Yvaren, and soon, he would unknowingly overdraw his Bell-Pay to buy the Ultimate Divine Weapon, L Fatty, and then think that being a dog wasn��t so bad after all.


    The number of statues in this main house is just too much�� Ashe was wiping down a statue of a female sorcerer holding a staff. He wasn��t sure which medieval fairy tale she was from, but there were many simr statues, covering various races and factions. Ashe even saw a Bewitcher dressed like a holy knight. It seemed the Belldate Family had a penchant for collecting.


    As Ashe was diligently cleaning the crevices of the female sorcerer statue, his heavy body caused him to identally knock over a nearby bucket, spilling water all over the floor. This made the already burdensome job even more challenging.


    Sighing, the Cult Leader knelt down to wipe the marble floor.


    While he was cleaning, someone suddenly appeared in front of him. Ashe looked up and saw a girl with short wine-red hair, dressed in a butler uniform, also kneeling down to wipe the floor.


    Noticing Ashe��s gaze, she smiled and said, ��It��ll be quicker if we clean together, right?��


    ��What about your own work?�� Ashe was a bit surprised. This was his assigned work area, and generally, servants didn��t wander into other areas except to use the restroom. Not only because they were busy, but also because thoughts like ��cking off�� or ��visiting others�� to reduce work efficiency didn��t cross their minds.


    ��My job is to patrol the main house and help everyoneplete their tasks,�� the red-haired girl said. ��You��re new here, right?��


    ��Hmm?�� Ashe wasn��t wearing his ��Fiend trench coat�� now, but the Twisting Mask was mandatory. Whether he wore it or not, others would see him with the mask on, so he was quite easy to recognize. However, Yvaren had said that no one in the manor would pay attention to them. Ashe could only trust in the Dominance Sect��s power. ��Why do you think so?��


    ��I remember the faces of all the servants in the manor,�� the red-haired girl said with a slight smile. ��Nice to meet you, my name is Anfel.��


    ��That��s impossible. This brutal manor has eighty thousand servants. How could you remember them all? You must mean the servants in the main house, right?�� Ashe scoffed. ��But yes, I am new here. My name is Akamashi Sparashi����


    ��Ashe Heath.��


    Seeing Ashe suddenly hit by the true name, Anfel blinked. ��Don��t worry, no one here will report you.��


    Is this the power of the Dominance Sect, where even if they know I��m Ashe Heath, they won��t report me? Ashe suddenly grew curious. ��Why won��t you report me? Don��t you know I��m the top-ranked piece on the Art Ranking, and the Empire is hunting me down?��


    ��I know, but this is the Belldate manor. If you��re working here, it means the patriarch of the Belldate Family has approved of you,�� Anfel said. ��We all trust the judgment of the Belldate patriarch.��


    ��The patriarch of the Belldate Family? You mean Yvaren?��


    ��Yes, we usually address her as Ms. Belldate,�� Anfel reminded him. ��Only those very familiar with her can call her by her first name. In daily interactions, we use ��Miss,�� ��Master,�� or ��Your Excellency.����


    Ashe hesitated, wanting to speak but holding back, then finally couldn��t help himself. ��Do you realize you��ve been brainwashed?��


    ��Brainwashed?�� Anfel tilted her head. ��By the way, you used the prefix ��brutal�� to describe the manor earlier.��


    ��Although you might not feel it, you��ve all been enved by Belldate,�� Ashe briefly exined Belldate��s concept of dominance over the popce. ��It��s due to her evil Miracle of Domination that you��re wasting your youth, working and consuming endlessly as adults, and then going on dangerous adventures in old age, all to build her brutal dictatorship!��


    ��The reason you won��t report me is because Yvaren has hypnotically suggested you let go of any malice towards me!��


    Since learning about Belldate��s secrets from Annan, Ashe had been holding this in. Fortunately, no one had approached him to poke at his sensitive points over the past few days, so the Cult Leader managed to keep it in. But now, chatting with Anfel, he couldn��t hold back anymore. He couldn��t resist showing off the Dominance secrets he knew, trying to awaken a lostmb.


    But he seemed to forget that if he truly awakened the lostmb and Anfel refused to follow Yvaren��s orders, it would mean Anfel was free from all restraints and could report him as the Fish that Escaped the Net and source of disaster.


    ��Oh���� Anfel nodded heavily, a thoughtful expression on her face.


    Just when Ashe thought she understood, Anfel sighed. ��Mr. Heath, you����


    ��Just call me Ashe.��


    ��Mr. Ashe, it seems you have many misunderstandings and prejudices about us.��


    ��What? Are you saying what I said was false? Was I deceived?��


    ��No, everything you said is true, but���� Anfel thought for a moment, then leaned closer to Ashe and said, ��Don��t move, look sideways at that floor-to-ceiling window.��


    Because there was a lush sycamore tree outside, the green-tinted window could barely serve as a mirror. Ashe looked at the window and saw a reflection of him and Anfel, their faces seemingly close together-though it was just a visual misalignment.


    Ashe understood. ��You mean everything I said is true, but it��s just one perspective?��


    Anfel nodded. ��Let me ask you three questions first. When you were young, did you have many things you wanted to buy, many ces you wanted to go, and many experiences you wanted to have?��


    ��Yes.��


    ��When you were working, did you wish for a beautiful and virtuous wife, a few mischievous but lively children, and weekends off to create more memories with them?��


    Ashe, who had always hoped to find a beautiful wife and then let a Substitute raise the family, had to answer honestly, ��Yes.��


    ��When you��re in your fifties or sixties, with your children grown and tired of work, wouldn��t you want to see how the world has changed over the decades, visit the grandndscapes you didn��t dare to when you were young, and take on the final challenges of your life?�� After asking, Anfel shook her head. ��But we��re still young, so we can��t answer that question.��


    But Ashe already understood her pointpletely.


    ��You think the people of Meph are not under Belldate��s domination, but are acting of their own free will?��


    ��I��ve actually been to other cities and learned about life in different parts of the Gospel.�� Anfel continued wiping the floor as she spoke. ��When young people are most eager to experience various lifestyles, they have plenty of time but no money; when middle-aged people are busiest and most stable, they have lots of money butck time; when elderly people have experienced all the world has to offer and are weary of life, needing to rekindle their passion, they are often tied down by their descendants.��


    ��If we could give the money from middle age to the young, then many problems would be solved. The young could grow up happily and carefree, establish their careers and families satisfactorily, and in old age, they wouldn��t have to worry about their descendants because their children could also advance their middle-aged money.��


    ��In the ranking list of cities by resident satisfaction, Meph has always been in the top five. But I believe, apart from Vamora, which cheats with stimting gases, Meph is undoubtedly the happiest city,�� Anfel said earnestly. ��We make the most of our youth while ying, honor our dreams while working, stay true to our partners and children when marrying, respect the passage of time in old age, and stay true to ourselves in death.��


    ��Yes, Belldate does subtly influence us, using our work value to build this manor, just as you said. But is there any city without domination or rule? Vamora? Modora? Nabistin? Or the wilderness, the Abyss?��


    ��The people of Meph aren��t unaware; they know everything, understand everything, and still choose the life they love. You can ask any Meph resident, and they will tell you: ��I can live my life to the fullest; Belldate has not wronged me.����


    ��Everything in the world is subject to cycles of domination. Time, space, the past, environment, bloodline, race�� even the gods might not dare to im they are free,�� Anfel chuckled. ��Recognizing reality and bravely facing challenges, that��s what we Meph people do.��


    ��What do you think, Mr. Ashe?��


    Damn it, I almost believe you!


    It sounds pretty good to be Yvaren��sckey!


    I��ll max out my credit with a billion bell points, live an amazing life, and then let my Substitute work off the debt!

 Chapter 389: Igors Worth

    Chapter 389: Igors Worth


    Just as Ashe was about to be persuaded, he suddenly became alert. ��Wait, Anfel, are you Yvaren��s envoy?��


    ��Wow, that was close. I almost fell for it. You��ve got quite the silver tongue. What Spellcasting Sect are you from? Mental Sect? Dominance Sect? So, have you secretly used a Miracle to cloud my judgment? No wonder you approached me; it was all part of a n!��


    ��This is outrageous! You, a henchman of Belldate��s, please spare my life!��


    ��Mr. Ashe, you really are an amusing person,�� Anfel chuckled. ��But I still don��t rmend you stay in Meph.��


    ��Why not?��


    ��Because the previous ranking lists show that you, Mr. Ashe, have great ambitions. You are destined to be a legendary sorcerer, leaving a significant mark on history and the Virtual Realm. Belldate cannot anticipate your future. Meph is just a wondend for mortals; you are meant for a greater stage.��


    ��I will continue to follow your progress in the Gospel Book,�� Anfel said, clenching her fists in encouragement. ��You are the first person I know to appear at the Weaving Festival. Although I don��t know how long you��ll stay here, if you encounter any trouble,e to me. I��ll do my best to help you. Please take care of me in the future!��


    Looking at the radiant face of the red-haired girl, Ashe suddenly felt a bit dazed.


    He recalled his past first encounters��Igor, who wanted to fleece him the moment they met;


    Harvey, who spent an afternoon discussing his peculiar fetish;


    Annan, who captured him right from the start;


    Qenna, who almost pierced his ear��


    But Anfel, not only engaged in friendly conversation with him and offered sincere advice, but also cheered him on, her smile as pure as vani.


    Thinking about it, Ashe couldn��t help but turn his head. Anfel blinked. ��Mr. Ashe? What��s wrong?��


    ��Nothing, I just feel strangely moved,�� Ashe sniffled. ��I think if I keep looking at you, I might start having unrealistic fantasies about reality����


    ��Anfel, what are you doing here?�� A voice suddenly echoed down the hallway.


    Yvaren quickly approached the two of them. She noticed Ashe staring at her intently, his unreserved gaze making her instinctively cover her important parts with her hands. ��If you keep undressing me with your eyes, I��m going to have to charge you. Starting price: 10,000,000 bell points.��


    ��Ah,�� Ashe sighed in relief. ��Thank you, Yvaren. Seeing your wretched face has finally helped solidify my shaky worldview.��


    ��Hey! Do you believe I won��t pay the fine just to beat you up?�� Yvaren raised her fist threateningly. Since Ashe had been so rude to her multiple times, she wasn��t going to be kind: ��Anfel,e with me.��


    ��Yes, sister.��


    Ashe was stunned. ��You two�� are sisters?��


    ��Yes.�� Anfel nodded, quickly exining, ��But Mr. Ashe, I spoke sincerely earlier. I wasn��t deceiving you�� Mr. Ashe, why are you crying?��


    Ashe covered his mouth, his eyes welling up as he looked at the two of them.


    ��I just thought of how you��ve been oppressed and humiliated by your half-sister all these years. I couldn��t help but����


    ��We are full sisters! Same father, same mother!��


    ��Impossible, your hair colors are different!�� Ashe had a sh of insight. ��Wait, unless����


    Yvaren interrupted his epiphany: ��That��s the result of a sorcerer��s Miracle! Our parents specifically selected the best gic information for us!��


    ��But that still doesn��t make sense. Your inner worlds are so different. Anfel is taller, more beautiful, and has a better personality than you�� Oh, I get it. The first attempt is always a trial run, and with experience, the second attempt produces the perfect product!��


    ��Damn it! Anfel, don��t stop me. I��m going to kill him for calling me a dwarf again!��


    ��Sister, Mr. Ashe didn��t call you short�� Oh right, didn��t you need to discuss something with me? Let��s go quickly!��


    As Anfel hurriedly dragged Yvaren away, Ashe was about to return to his work when he faintly heard Igor��s name in the distance.


    He had merely mentioned that Anfel was taller than Yvaren, which was enough to ignite the dwarf��s fuse. Igor had openly criticized Yvaren at noon, and Ashe wondered how Yvaren nned to deal with the Con Artist.


    Feeling a bit concerned, Ashe summoned his Substitute to carry him and followed them. After all, he was still burdened with the weights Yvaren had punished him with, and running would be exhausting.


    By the way, the reason Ashe didn��t let his Substitute do his work was because Yvaren had already closed that loophole��her work requirements specified ��real manualbor,�� with the reasoning that ��only intelligent creatures can provide the most appropriate service.��


    Ashe and his colleagues could use a spirit Miracle to enhance their bodies, but they couldn��t let the spirit Miracle do the work for them. Otherwise, it would be deemed ��low-quality workpletion�� �� ��exploitation of Belldate,�� which was prohibited.


    Although having his Substitute carry him drew a hundred percent of the attention, the servants along the way merely nced at Ashe before continuing their work. Their dedication was as if they were polishing ancient artifacts of the Angel Alliance��s Dragon King, even though they were just doing routine cleaning. They seemed to genuinely love their work.


    ��Work diligently, y heartily, takefortable vacations, and live freely���� Many thoughts crossed Ashe��s mind.


    Yvaren and Anfel didn��t go to any secretive ce but arrived at the second-floor courtyard garden. Ashe trailed behind, thankful that the garden��s densendscaping was like a maze, ensuring he wouldn��t be discovered.


    Hiding behind a hedge, Ashe heard the sound of someone sitting down, followed by Yvaren��s voice: ��This is my sister, Anfel; this is Igor Bukin, apanion of the necromancer.��


    ��Nice to meet you, Mr. Bukin.��


    ��Just call me Igor. Nice to meet you, Miss Anfel.��


    Yvaren said, ��Bukin, didn��t you just say that the reason you refused my offer was because you didn��t want to sign any Pact with me?��


    ��Yes,�� Igor replied. ��Your family��s Angel ancestor left you a precious legacy regarding Pacts. I don��t think my shallow knowledge canpare to an Angel��s arrangements��I��m not Harvey, and the Angelic traps from 900 years ago still hold significant deterrence for me.��


    ��So, I now offer you a better choice,�� Yvaren said. ��This is my sister, Anfel Belldate.��


    Ashe blinked in confusion��hadn��t she already introduced her? Did this dwarf have Alzheimer��s?


    ��Her child will be the next patriarch of the Belldate family, Meph��s master.��


    ��As long as you can make her fall for you, Belldate will invest in you with all its might. Not only will we help you break Annan��s Pact, but we will also ensure you stand on the stage of the Weaving Festival and seize the wish of the Omniscient Weaver!��


    ��We can even find a way to control Annan, using the Dn Family��s legacy for our own purposes! You fear the Dominance Sect, but what if the Dominance Sect served you? What if you could wield the Dominance Miracle of Belldate as well?��


    ��Igor Bukin, this is the deal I propose to you, and the value I ce on you,�� Yvaren��s voice now was more alluring than any salesperson��s. ��Does this arouse your desire for an impulsive purchase?��

 Chapter 390: Why Not Me?

    Chapter 390: Why Not Me?


    ��So that��s the situation.��


    Not long after dinner, everyone except the Con Artist was gathered in Ashe��s room. Annan seemed to have just finished her bath, wearing purple pajamas and eating pudding; Banjeet was still in his ever-present butler attire, as if he were working overtime; Lise had also finished her bath and was having Ashe blow-dry her hair.


    ��So you disturbed my skincare routine with Alice for this trivial matter?�� Harveyined.


    Everyone stared nkly at the necromancer.


    Banjeet pursed his lips.


    Annan touched her earring.


    Ashe frowned.


    Only Lise couldn��t help but open her mouth, but as soon as she uttered a vowel, Ashe covered her mouth.


    ��First, I cleanse Alice��s body with a protein coagting preservative solution, then I apply diluted Gallingen solution to maintain her skin sticity, and then������No one asked you about that! Interrupt! Heavy blow! Prevent rebound!�� Ashe was so exasperated he felt like throwing the hairdryer at Harvey, and said crossly, ��The topic now is Igor, not Alice!��


    ��What��s there to discuss about Igor?�� Harvey scratched his ear nonchntly. ��Are you wondering what wedding gift to give? On that note, I��m quite confident. Two custom-made necromancer-exclusive couple coffins will outshine any of your mundane gifts.��


    ��As for Lise, she hopes Aunt Bukin will wear a wedding dress at the ceremony,�� Lise said. ��Just seeing that will make Lise happy, no other gifts needed.��


    Banjeet reminded her, ��Lise, the wedding gift is something we give them, not something they give us.��


    Lise shook her head. ��I don��t care, Lise just wants to see Aunt Bukin in a wedding dress! Just want to see it, just want to see it!��


    ��Lise!��


    Ashe pressed down on the white-haired girl��s head and said sternly, ��The adults are discussing serious matters. Don��t cause a ruckus! Do you think you can have everything you want?��


    Annan nodded secretly, thinking that Ashe still knew how to prioritize.


    Then she saw Ashe summon the Gospel Book and open it, revealing a catalog of items inside: ��In my opinion, we should pool our funds and custom-order a wedding dress for Igor as the wedding gift����


    ��So that��s the situation.��


    Not long after dinner, everyone except the Con Artist was gathered in Ashe��s room. Annan seemed to have just finished her bath, wearing purple pajamas and eating pudding; Banjeet was still in his ever-present butler attire, as if he were working overtime; Lise had also finished her bath and was having Ashe blow-dry her hair.


    ��So you disturbed my skincare routine with Alice for this trivial matter?�� Harveyined.


    Everyone stared nkly at the necromancer.


    Banjeet pursed his lips.


    Annan touched her earring.


    Ashe frowned.


    Only Lise couldn��t help but open her mouth, but as soon as she uttered a vowel, Ashe covered her mouth.


    ��First, I cleanse Alice��s body with a protein coagting preservative solution, then I apply diluted Gallingen solution to maintain her skin sticity, and then����


    ��No one asked you about that! Interrupt! Heavy blow! Prevent rebound!�� Ashe was so exasperated he felt like throwing the hairdryer at Harvey, and said crossly, ��The topic now is Igor, not Alice!��


    ��What��s there to discuss about Igor?�� Harvey scratched his ear nonchntly. ��Are you wondering what wedding gift to give? On that note, I��m quite confident. Two custom-made necromancer-exclusive couple coffins will outshine any of your mundane gifts.��


    ��As for Lise, she hopes Aunt Bukin will wear a wedding dress at the ceremony,�� Lise said. ��Just seeing that will make Lise happy, no other gifts needed.��


    Banjeet reminded her, ��Lise, the wedding gift is something we give them, not something they give us.��


    Lise shook her head. ��I don��t care, Lise just wants to see Aunt Bukin in a wedding dress! Just want to see it, just want to see it!��


    ��Lise!��


    Ashe pressed down on the white-haired girl��s head and said sternly, ��The adults are discussing serious matters. Don��t cause a ruckus! Do you think you can have everything you want?��


    Annan nodded secretly, thinking that Ashe still knew how to prioritize.


    Then she saw Ashe summon the Gospel Book and open it, revealing a catalog of items inside: ��In my opinion, we should pool our funds and custom-order a wedding dress for Igor as the wedding gift����


    The Second Miss pulled off her earring, which transformed into an assault gun and aimed it at Ashe. ��Are you out of your mind? Want to run away from home? Don��t be shy, the Funeral Firm��s main business is transportation.��


    ��Second Miss, let��s talk this out. You��re scaring Lise,�� Ashe and Lise raised their hands in surrender.


    ��Let��s get back to the main topic.�� Annan turned the assault gun back into an earring. ��Do you think Igor will agree to this?��


    ��You should ask, what reason does he have to refuse this investment?�� Harvey was ying with a skull he had pulled out from who knows where.


    Ashe nced at it, feeling an odd sense of natural harmony and unique beauty from the skull, much like the feeling of finding a perfectly straight stick that could be used as a long sword during his childhood walks.


    He shuddered and quickly hugged the warm Lise, trying to resist the allure of the dead. ��Maybe Igor is just extremely averse to intimacy����


    ��But didn��t you mention that Mr. Bukin has the Bewitcher Lineage?�� Banjeet asked. ��Though there are no Bewitchers in the Gospel Kingdom, ording to records, the Bewitcher Lineage shouldn��t bepatible with aversion to intimacy, right? However, Mr. Bukin might already have someone he��s interested in, perhaps����


    ��So what if he has someone? Can��t people change their minds? Does a Con Artist have some kind of ��loyalty�� mechanism that locks their affections forever? And if you��re making assumptions, why not assume Igor, like me, doesn��t like living people and prefers the cold touch of the dead?�� Harvey retorted irritably. ��Or maybe assume Igor doesn��t like money and just enjoys our adventurous, nomadic life. That would make more sense!��


    ��In other words,�� Lise concluded, ��As long as Aunt Bukin is a normal person, he will definitely agree to this deal.��


    Everyone nodded, even Annan couldn��t argue.


    Mainly because the conditions offered by Yvaren were too advantageous, the price bubble was almost inted to an irrationally impulsive level��that was the entire Belldate consortium!


    An Angel Family!


    The sole ruler of Meph!


    And they controlled the profound legacy of the Dominance Sect!


    Let��s think about it from Igor��s perspective. If he agrees to this deal, he can leap from being an outsider to bing the son-inw of the Belldate family, marry a rich and beautiful woman, be a CEO, and wield wealth that rivals nations, reaching the pinnacle of life.


    For an ordinary person, they might consider whether they have the ability for all this, but Igor is a Con Artist. He might not have the skills to run the massive Belldate consortium, but he definitely knows how to turn Belldate��s resources into his own wealth. Embezzlement, bribery, and using power for personal gain are all within a Con Artist��s repertoire!


    Thinking more maliciously, even though a Con Artist can never truly control Belldate, since only his and Anfel��s offspring would be the rightful heirs, what if something happened to Anfel after she had a child?


    Furthermore, the current patriarch, Yvaren, is merely a two-wings sorcerer. The Belldate fortress might protect her, but if Igor bes her ��family,�� a Con Artist would have countless ways to harm his sister-inw.


    As for whether Igor would do such a thing�� don��t forget, the first time Ashe met Igor, he was nearly drained dry by this handsome blond Bewitcher!


    And the most irresistible point: Yvaren would find a way to break Igor��s Pact with Annan!


    As the inheritors of the Dominance Sect, Belldate has industrialized and specialized the use of Pacts. Yvaren��s promise can be trusted-after all, what if Annan controlled Igor through the Pact to steal Belldate��s wealth?


    For her own interests, Yvaren wouldn��t let Igor remain under Dn��s control. Igor had explicitly said he wouldn��t sign any Pacts with Belldate, so Yvaren��s offer is not only enticing but alsoes with the convenience of having her sister feed it to Igor directly, making it seem like Igor is the one paying for such attentive service!


    The more Ashe thought about how Belldate was going to such lengths to poach theirpanion, the angrier he got. He pped his thigh in frustration and eximed, ��Why not me?��


    ��Ah!�� Lise also punched Ashe in the jaw in anger. ��Dad, if you��re going to hit someone, hit yourself! Why hit my thigh?��


    ��But Ashe does have a point,�� the young butler pondered.


    Ashe nodded vigorously. ��Right, right! Why do I have to mop the floors and clean up while Igor gets to sit in the garden and go on a date with a pretty, sweet, and innocent youngdy? It��s not fair! Why does that shorty offer Igor such a great deal while all I get is Annan��s����


    He stopped abruptly, like he��d hit the brakes.


    But it was toote��the girl in purple pajamas had already vanished from his sight.


    In her ce, he felt a hard object pressing against his lower back.


    ��The one pressing against your back now is my sister, whose mother is Donna, the Second Miss of the Absolute de Mech Company. Her specialty is massaging people with 9mm metal blocks. If I were you, I��d spit out the words you just swallowed. Tomorrow��s you will thank today��s you for making a wise decision.��


    Annan had somehow moved behind Ashe and climbed onto the bed, making a very serious threat. However, everyone except Ashe could see her earring was still hanging properly on her ear, and she was just holding a metal spoon, pressing the handle against Ashe��s back.


    Although Ashe didn��t know the threat was fake, he understood that resisting would only make things worse, and confessing would make things even worse. He clenched his teeth and resisted to the end.


    ��Spill it! What did Yvaren use to tempt you?��


    ��Your room key, but I��m an upright man, of course I refused such a heinous deal!��


    ��You��re lying! All the doors here use iris recognition, there are no keys! Spill it!��


    ��It was actually a hypnotic spray that works specifically on you, but I am a man of pure love, so of course I refused such shameless temptation!��


    ��If Yvaren could hypnotize sorcerers, she would have turned us into her dogs long ago! Wait a minute, you even mentioned the hypnotic spray, which means Yvaren��s offer was even lower than that. Just tell me honestly, and I won��t be mad at you. The real culprit here is Yvaren, not you.��


    ��Could you let go of me before you say that?��


    Watching Annan lock Ashe in a cross chokehold while they wrestled on the bed, Lise and Banjeet had strange expressions on their faces��since when did those two get along so well? Meanwhile, Harvey continued fiddling with his precious skull.


    Suddenly, Lise nced at her new mirror gloves, then rushed over and pounced on Ashe, forcibly separating the two sweaty friends.


    ��Ouch~~~��


    Annan quickly let go. ��Did I hit Lise?��


    Ashe hurriedly sat up to check. ��Are you okay? Where did you get hit?��


    ��Lise�� timidly raised her hand. ��I think I twisted my wrist����


    ��That��s a relief.�� Ashe sighed, gently massaging her wrist and subtly slipping in the ��Joy Sword.�� ��This little injury will heal quickly.��


    ��Mmh!�� ��Lise�� nestled into Ashe��s embrace, nuzzling him like a small bear seeking warmth.


    Given the situation, Annan couldn��t continue y-fighting with Ashe. But as she walked away, she noticed ��Lise�� smirking slightly, her eyes glinting mischievously��a dark, cunning version of the white-haired girl. Yet, when Annan looked directly at her, ��Lise�� was buried in Ashe��s arms, her face hidden.


    A hallucination?


    Or was Yvaren��s influence at y? Could there be arge-scale Miracle affecting their minds and causing hallucinations?


    As Annan sat back down, still suspicious, Banjeet returned to the main topic. ��If Miss Yvaren had made such an offer to Mr. Harvey or Ashe, I would have been surprised but could understand it. But her choice was Mr. Bukin, and that confuses me.��

 Chapter 391: How Can We Watch Igor Find Happiness?

    Chapter 391: How Can We Watch Igor Find Happiness?


    Banjeet��s confusion was shared by everyone.


    Ashe nodded, ��Exactly. After all, both Harvey and I have made appearances in the Future Ranking, while Igor hasn��t shown up even once�� Why is Yvaren so partial to Igor? What does she hope to get from the male Bewitcher?��


    At this point, everyone looked at Annan.


    Annan raised her eyebrows, ��Why are you all looking at me?��


    ��Because it was your decision to bring us to Meph,�� Ashe said. ��And you know Yvaren. If anyone here understands Miss Belldate best, it��s you.��


    Banjeet was also curious, ��I only found out about your rtionship with Miss Yvaren when we got here.��


    Annan crossed her legs and lightly yed with her earring, as if processing information in her mind to cook up a Funeral delicacy. ��Yvaren�� my rtionship with her goes way back. We haven��t been in contact since she took over as the patriarch.��


    She seemed unwilling to reveal the secrets of ��How to Meet a Super Rich Beauty and Get Rich,�� and went straight to the point. ��Yvaren��s personality is actually quite normal. Growing up in an environment where everyone fawns over you, even if you were ice cream, you wouldn��t melt. Her character, qualities, and virtues are naturally impable. Apart from being very particr about height, she��s pretty much like any other girl.��


    ��If I had to say, it��s that she��s too ordinary-so ordinary that she actually yearns for a simple and sincere sweet romance. She knows her biggest obstacle in love is her own status, so she once ran away from home, hoping for a thrilling and exciting adventure.����And what happened?�� Ashe asked.


    ��Well, the previous patriarch of the Belldate family paid for her to experience her dream adventure,�� Annan shrugged. ��When she found out the truth, she gave up on pursuing that kind of ordinary happiness and returned home to inherit a trillion-dor conglomerate.��


    ��Speaking of which, Yvaren looks quite young. How did she be the patriarch at such an age?�� Harvey asked. ��What about her parents?��


    ��Besides knowing that they��re deceased, there��s not much information. But their deaths have nothing to do with the patriarch position��Belldate patriarchs are generally unmarried, and the heirs are usually nieces or nephews. So, Yvaren��s parents were not the patriarchs; her aunt was the previous patriarch.��


    Annan continued, ��And almost all Belldate patriarchs have taken up the position at a young age. If the previous patriarch didn��t retire and live in anonymity but rather died, then no Belldate patriarch has lived past 40.��


    ��Wait!�� Ashe raised his hand. ��What about the death times of the patriarchs�� biological parents?��


    Annan��s expression turned a bit subtle. ��Not clear, but there��s no record of a Belldate patriarch��s parents being alive. Statistically, it��s safe to equate ��bing patriarch�� with ��having no living parents.����


    ��Then we have to tell Igor this����


    ��It won��t help,�� Harvey said calmly.


    Ashe looked at the necromancer in surprise. ��How can it not help? He��ll end up as a sacrificial offering for his own child!��


    ��So what? It takes years for a child to grow up.�� Harvey shook his head. ��Do you think a Con Artist cares about long-term benefits that span over a decade? Do you think a Con Artist fears a risk that won��t materialize for years?��


    ��And considering his nature, any loophole you can think of, and even those you can��t, he��s definitely investigated thoroughly. As meticulous as I am during dissections, he��s just as thorough in his investigations. Trying to warn him in his professional domain only makes me feel you��re underestimating Igor Bukin.��


    Ashe was slightly taken aback and slowly closed the Gospel Book.


    ��Could it be that Igor��s appearance caught Miss Yvaren��s attention?�� Banjeet spected.


    Annan shook her head and waved her hand, giving the butler a double negation. ��I already said, Yvaren is just an ordinary girl. She��s not infatuated to the point of being lovestruck. Even if she were, why would she have her sister marry Igor? In this world, who would like a forbidden love?��


    Ashe blinked and subconsciously wiped away non-existent blood from his face.


    Annan continued, ��Betting the entire Belldate conglomerate on one person��Igor being handsome aside��even if Igor were the reincarnation of her Angel ancestor, she��d still have to think it through.��


    ��Actually, you can think about it the other way around; it might make more sense.��


    Everyone looked at the ��Lise�� in Ashe��s arms. ��Lise�� said, ��Why didn��t Yvaren choose Harvey or Ashe? There must be reasons why she couldn��t choose them.��


    Banjeet suddenly realized, ��Right, if I were Miss Yvaren, I definitely wouldn��t choose Mr. Harvey. Not to mention Mr. Harvey��s future theft of his ancestor��s legacy, more importantly, Mr. Harvey��s reputation is alreadypletely ruined. Supporting Mr. Harvey means going against the entire Gospel.��


    Harvey scratched his ear awkwardly. ��Thanks.��


    ��That��s not apliment,�� Annan said irritably. ��And not choosing Ashe is also understandable. The Empire is still hunting him. Tying Ashe to the Belldate��s chariot would be seeking one��s own doom����


    Ashe nodded, then shook his head. ��But those are just reasons not to choose us. The conditions that Dwarf proposed to Igor are too favorable. Igor must have something Belldate needs.��


    ��That I don��t know,�� Annan shrugged.


    The room fell silent for a moment before Harvey spoke up, ��So what do we do?��


    ��If Igor decides to defect and be Belldate��s son-inw, do we send two coffins as a wedding blessing, or do we try to destroy this rare, possibly once-in-a-lifetime chance for Igor to turn the tables?��


    Whether to first mock ��defect�� or ��send two coffins���� The points to ridicule were so dense that Annan felt her ability to verbalize her thoughts couldn��t keep up with her growing need to mock, so she remained silent.


    ��If Igor sessfully falls in love with Anfel,�� Ashe counted on his fingers, ��he not only escapes the Funeral Firm, he also gains control over Belldate��s trillion-dor assets, gets Belldate��s support to continue sweeping the Weaving Festival, and could even end up dominating us�� Most importantly, he gets a pure, kind, beautiful, and lovely wife.��


    ��I think the answer is pretty obvious,�� Ashe said, spreading his hands. ��As a friend, arade, a cellmate, I can��t convince myself not to cause trouble! How can I just stand by and watch Igor find happiness!?��


    Harvey reminded, ��But don��t forget, if Igor manages to dominate Annan, we can also break free from the Funeral Firm. Supporting Igor could be beneficial for us.��


    Annan nced at the necromancer, but she wasn��t angry because Banjeet helped dispel their treacherous thoughts of betrayal. ��Mr. Harvey, do you think Mr. Bukin would cancel your Pact with Miss, or would he continue to control you through her Pact?��


    Harvey suddenly realized, ��Right. How could I doubt Igor��s character?��


    ��Besides,�� Ashe said seriously, ��don��t you feel sick seeing someone else find happiness?��


    ��Indeed,�� Harvey nodded.


    ��In so many ways, it��s unforgivable,�� Annan said, lightly flicking her earring.


    Although Banjeet naturally agreed with interfering with Igor since he was on the Funeral Firm��s side, watching the three like-minded individuals in front of him made the sixty-something butler feel a twinge of guilt in his conscience��

 Chapter 392: Maybe Not

    Chapter 392: Maybe Not


    After hastily finalizing the ��Rescue Igor from Happiness (Top Secret)�� n, everyone left Ashe��s room.


    But just as Annan pushed open the door, she happened to see Igor��s blond hair disappearing around the corner of the hallway.


    Ashe eximed, ��Igor isn��t working overtime tonight?��


    ��He��s about to be Belldate��s son-inw, why would he still need to work?�� Annan whispered, gesturing for them to follow: ��Our chance hase.��


    They followed him all the way to the second-floor atrium. Because the manor was located on the city on the second level, there was nothing obstructing the view. The night sky was bright with twinkling Stars, the veil of soft yellow lighting several meters thick, makeup ovepping, rouge heavy, turning the pretentious gardening into a romantic backdrop.


    The garden maze provided perfect cover. Halfway through, they heard Igor��s voice: ��Sorry, have you been waiting long?��


    ��No.�� Anfel��s cheerful voice carried an irrepressible smile.


    ��Hmm?��


    ��No, it��s just that my sister kept telling me you��re a mental sorcerer with plenty of romantic experience, and I should be careful with you. But you��re much more nervous than I imagined.����Huh? Did I do something wrong?��


    ��No, nothing wrong with your appearance, but I can feel it.�� Even though they were only listening, everyone could almost see a girl squinting her eyes and smiling: ��Mr. Igor, you��re just someone who is strong when facing the strong and weak when facing the weak. You act super calm and smart around my sister, but you��re at a loss when dealing with someone like me.��


    ��Who calls themselves an idiot?�� Igorughed as well. ��All the idiots I��ve met never admit they��re idiots.��


    ��He��s talking about you, Harvey,�� Ashe said, seizing the initiative.


    ��I��m an idiot,�� Harvey said calmly. ��Now it��s your turn to prove yourself.��


    If an idiot never admits they��re an idiot, then someone who admits they��re an idiot isn��t an idiot.


    Ashe didn��t flinch: ��I��m an idiot.��


    The moment Ashe spoke, Annan, ��Lise,�� and Harvey simultaneously activated the recording function on their Gospel Book.


    ��Alright, recordingplete.�� Harvey looked at Ashe with ��sympathetic�� eyes, as if saying, ��It must be tough for you to prove yourself like this.��


    ��This is bullying, right? This is definitely workce bullying!�� Ashe gritted his teeth. ��I��m going toin about you to the Gospel!��


    ��What are you all doing here?��


    Everyone turned to see a blue-haired girl standing behind them, her hands on her hips, ring furiously at the Funeral Firm like a boss catching employees cking off.


    ��We��re not working overtime tonight; we can go wherever we want,�� Annan retorted. ��But what about you, Yvaren? What are you doing here?��


    ��My sister is on a date, so of course, I��m here to eavesdrop and check things out!�� Yvaren shamelessly dered.


    ��You actually don��t trust our ��good friend�� Igor Bukin!�� Annan feigned shock. ��A date being monitored��I��m appalled! I must talk to Bukin and let him know your true nature!��


    ��Annan, your acting is still terrible,�� Yvaren said with disdain. ��You look so punchable.��


    ��Thene hit me. Do I need to kneel topete with you? Considering my height, it would be like fighting a fire hydrant from the second floor.��


    ��An��nan����


    ��Wait a minute,�� Banjeet said, puzzled. ��We��re making so much noise. Why are they still chatting normally inside?��


    ��Hmph, you think I didn��t anticipate you troublemakersing to disrupt?�� Yvaren raised an eyebrow. ��Not only is there a soundproof Miracle barrier here, but as soon as Igor entered, the garden started moving. The inner and outer mazes arepletely isted. Now, not only can we not get in, but they��ll also get lost if they try toe out. They can take their time building their rtionship!��


    ��What if they want to leave?�� Ashe asked curiously.


    ��I��ll be here listening. When I feel their date should end, I��ll press this button.�� Yvaren took out a controller. ��Then the garden maze and the soundproof barrier will be lifted.��


    ��Of course, you could always destroy the facilities here to ruin this date. But the damages�� I hope you can afford them.��


    This turned out to be a multiyered trap. If the Funeral Firm dared to damage private property, Yvaren could gain a new employee!


    ��Oh~�� Annan nodded. ��Such a meticulous setup�� Hey!��


    Yvaren deftly dodged Annan��s grab. ��Damn! I knew you were as rough as an orc.��


    ��And you��re as slippery as a Goblin!�� Annan gritted her teeth and looked at the others. ��What are you standing around for? Help out!��


    ��Trying to gang up on me?�� Yvarenughed. ��Without weapons or offensive spirit Miracles, I��d like to see how you handle a two-wings fist-w sorcerer like me.��


    ��Don��t damage the nearby garden; you can only use spirit Miracles to enhance yourselves,�� Banjeet reminded. ��Miss Yvaren is deliberately provoking us to damage her family��s property.��


    ��Do you like the stars?�� Igor asked.


    ��Very much,�� Anfel replied. ��When I look at the starry sky, I feel so small, and all my daily worries be insignificant. Two things always amaze me: the magnificent starry sky and the persistence of people in legendary stories. The brilliance of humanity and the starlight are equally dazzling.��


    Harvey lunged at Yvaren, but she nimbly jumped aside, causing the necromancer to fall t on his face.


    Annan and Ashe attacked from both sides, but the blue-haired girl slipped under Ashe��s arm, making them crash into each other.


    ��Mr. Igor, you must have visited many ces. Do you have any thrilling adventure stories?��


    ��I do, but the content might not be very wholesome.��


    ��That��s perfect! I love dark and realistic adventure stories.��


    ��Do you yearn for adventure?��


    ��Yes, I��ve loved adventure stories since I was a child, but the farthest I��ve ever been is to other cities. The only ce I can explore is the manor�� My favorite adventure series is about finding traces of ancient civilizations in the wilderness, far from the city. Have you ever had such experiences, Mr. Igor?��


    ��Once, during a gang war, I discovered that a remote trading spot used to be the dining hall of an Ogre tribe from a few hundred years ago. Does that count?��


    ���d(�R���Q)o Gang war!��


    Banjeet seized the opportunity and lunged to hug Yvaren��s legs. Yvaren remained unperturbed, pressed her body forward, lifted her legs with a fluid motion, and freed herself while delivering a hard kick to the young butler��s chin.


    But just then, Annan rushed over to try and grab Yvaren. Yvaren let out a soft ��tsk��, did a split, and Ashe noticed she was wearing safety shorts under her skirt. Her legs spun like a windmill, tripping the Purple Moth directly!


    Yvaren let out a disdainfulugh, did two flips, andnded proudly like a champion��


    ��Mm-hmm!��


    As Harvey grunted, Yvaren, stepping on the necromancer, fell t on her face. The controller in her pocket flew out until itnded by a pair of small feet.


    ��Lise��, who had been watching the spectacle, blinked and handed the controller to Ashe.


    ��By the way, let��s get our story straight! When I go back, I��ll tell my sister that I��m very pleased with you. That way, the ball��s in your court.��


    ��Why?�� Igor asked.


    ��Hmm?��


    ��Why are you helping me?��


    ��It��s not really helping,�� Anfel replied. ��After all, I��m genuinely pleased with you, Igor, and that��s not a lie. Plus, you were coerced by my sister. Doing this gives you more room to maneuver.��


    ��Coerced? But this deal was of my own����


    ��Choosing between ��making me like you�� and ��being a servant to the Belldate family for life�� isn��t exactly a free choice,�� Anfel said, seemingly twirling her teacup. ��But I understand my sister has her reasons, and you, Igor, have your own goals. Your positions are ultimately opposed. I��m just trying to dy the inevitable conflict between you two.��


    ��But�� you and your sister are both smart. Maybe if we buy some time, you��ll find a mutually beneficial solution? Hehe, worst case, I��ll just get scolded by my sister. A fair gamble.��


    ��Ashe, now��s your chance!�� Annan shouted as she rushed to grab Yvaren��s leg.


    ��Ashe, don��t you dare!�� Yvaren threatened, baring her teeth like a little tiger.


    Harvey was busy treating his stomped injuries, and Banjeet, who had been kicked in the chin, was still dazed.


    Ashe looked at the controller in his hand, thought for a moment, then turned and tossed it towards the garden center, where Igor and Anfel were.


    ��Let��s just call it off.��


    The Cult Leader pped his hands and, holding ��Lise��s�� hand, walked away.

 Chapter 393: Hypothesis

    Chapter 393: Hypothesis


    Virtual Realm, Time Continent.


    ��What are you thinking about?��


    Ashe was slightly startled and turned to see the Sword Princess leaning in close, their faces almost touching. Their breaths mingled, and Ashe could even see his reflection in her mischievous eyes.


    In a split second, Ashe suppressed his instinct to pull away with his strong mental fortitude and maintained eye contact with her.


    One second, two seconds, three seconds passed. Sonya��s baster face started to blush faintly, but she seemed determined, refusing to blink as she stared at Ashe. Suddenly, she stuck out a small part of her pink tongue and lightly licked her lips. The smile spread from her curved lips, crossing her cute face and leaping into her clear eyes. The chemistry between her nervous pupils and her smile invaded Ashe��s nerves like a virus, making him want tough too.


    Smack!


    As Sonya turned her head toward the source of the sound, Ashe immediately raised his fist in victory. ��I won!��


    ��I wasn��t ying a staring game with you! How childish can you be?��


    The vige girl was furious, ring at the Witch who had fallen outside the carriage and interrupted them. ��What are you doing?����I-I was just thinking about whether to walk away and give you some space���� the Witch said sheepishly. ��You see, the Rain Curtain of the Reverse Golden Rain is quite effective at blocking the view. If I walk just ten steps away, I won��t be able to see you at all. It��s very safe! Sorry for disturbing you. I��ll leave now!��


    Deya had originally nned to sneak away quietly, but because she was trying to be too careful, she lost her bnce and tripped on the carriage door, hitting the ground headfirst. She was quite regretful herself��after all, she had only seen the prelude in fairy tale picture books before. She and her sisters were very curious about the thousands of words of text that followed the Sword Princess and the Observer.


    Even though Sonya had practiced her acting in front of a mirror, she was still embarrassed by the Witch��s words. Her face turned red, and her ears started to burn. She quickly went over to pull her back. ��You��re not disturbing us! Come back and sit down!��


    ��So, what were you two doing just now?�� Deya asked curiously.


    ��We�� we were just ying a staring game!�� Sonya exined. ��Whoever looks away or blinks first loses!��


    ��Sword Princess, you��re so childish,�� Ashe sighed, shrugging helplessly. ��How old are you? Can you be a little more mature?��


    The vige girl��s face turned bright red again��this time out of anger. She felt like her fury was about to burn through her stomach, and she was sure that if she drew her sword and performed the Blood Moon Blossoms on the Observer, it would be a guaranteed critical hit.


    ��By the way, I found some interesting information in the Sorcerer��s Handbook earlier,�� Deya said. ��It��s about the investigation of the Rainbow Tail.��


    Earlier, Ashe and Sonya had run over another sorcerer projection that had been wandering carelessly on the road.


    The spirit dropped by the sorcerer projection was handed over to the Sword Princess to sell, while Deya usually handled the Sorcerer��s Handbooks. Only particrly difficult handbooks were passed on to Ashe. Honestly, Ashe was quite satisfied with this recycling mechanism. Deya filtered out most of the ��ordinary�� handbooks, so Ashe only ended up with the especially sensational ones, each containing at least a dozen R18 tags, refreshing his understanding of biological diversity with every read.


    At the mention of the Rainbow Tail, Sonya immediately extinguished her inner fire, and Ashe began driving in pursuit of the White Bull.


    ��The handbook��s owner collected a lot of information about the Rainbow Tail and, after field verification, disproved most of the hypotheses,�� Deya said. ��Among the hypotheses he knew, the most likely ones are the Three and a Half Sorcerers Hypothesis, the Seven Sorcerers Hypothesis, and the White Bull Hypothesis.��


    ��The Three and a Half Sorcerers Hypothesis and the Seven Sorcerers Hypothesis are essentially the same. Sorcerers believe that the ��rainbow�� in Rainbow Tail refers to the color of a sorcerer��s virtual wings. Although we have Silver Wings and Golden Wings, if you examine closely, each person��s virtual wings have different colors and shapes. It��s not an exaggeration to say they are different colors.��


    ��Therefore, some sorcerers think that if you can gather seven different virtual wings, it might trigger the virtual realm mechanics to generate the Rainbow Tail. The Three and a Half Hypothesis is a simplified extension of this idea. If everyone is fully developed as two-wings sorcerers, then three and a half sorcerers could collectively gather seven virtual wings.��


    ��There��s another version of the Golden Seven Sorcerers Hypothesis: only fully condensed golden virtual wings count as one ��color.�� Silver virtual wings are not counted, so seven two-wings sorcerers are needed to trigger the Rainbow Tail. This hypothesis has some basis-sorcerers believe that when they gather seven Golden Wings, they will be ��seven drops of rain�� and fall upwards with the Reverse Golden Rain.��


    Ashe and Sonya nodded repeatedly. Although the reasoning process seemed far-fetched,pared to the Golden Fish Secret Toxin, this Seven Sorcerers Hypothesis was quite convincing.


    Moreover, the advanced version of the Golden Seven Sorcerers Hypothesis considered the Reverse Golden Rain, thergest mechanism on the Time Continent, making it highly persuasive. Even Ashe felt that its possibility was very high.


    Despite having only experienced the Golden Fish Secret Toxin, Ashe had a vague premonition: the Virtual Realm��s smuggling mechanisms likely belonged to the category of ��brain teasers,�� ��hidden in in sight,�� ��impossible to figure out until you know, then it seems straightforward,�� much like the intricate and obvious murder methods in detective novels.


    However, this did not mean that smuggling in the Virtual Realm was easy. On the contrary, sorcerers had to meet extremely stringent conditions. Take the Golden Fish, for example. It had no specific location requirements; you just needed to be able to fly. But aside from sorcerers like Ashe and the Sword Princess, who grew up together as ��childhood friend sorcerers,�� other silver sorcerers needed exceptional luck to meet and convince another sorcerer to team up for flight.


    Therefore, the Rainbow Tail was also likely something that could be triggered anywhere on the Time Continent, but the conditions were particrly harsh, making it almost impossible for a single sorcerer to meet them. The Golden Seven Sorcerers Hypothesis epassed all these factors, leading Ashe to believe it might be the truth, but��


    ��Three and a half is manageable, but seven sorcerers�� that��s a high bar.��


    Deya nodded. ��The handbook��s owner once gathered three and a half sorcerers by chance, but despite trying everything, they couldn��t trigger the Rainbow Tail mechanism before the static domain caught up with them, so the Three and a Half Hypothesis is likely incorrect. The Golden Seven Sorcerers Hypothesis has not been disproven and is considered the second most likely option by the handbook��s owner.��


    ��The second most likely?��


    ��Because the White Bull Hypothesis, which hasn��t been disproven, is considered even more likely,�� Deya exined. ��Sorcerers believe that the White Bull��s four legs are the gateway to the Rainbow Tail.��


    Ashe and Sonya immediately looked up at the distant white pir on the horizon.


    ��Right,�� Sonya suddenly remembered something. ��When white light passes through a prism, it refracts into a rainbow�� that��s basic knowledge of the Light Sect!��


    ��Yes, the handbook��s owner wrote about that,�� Deya nodded. ��The White Bull Hypothesis suggests that the white bull��s four legs are actually four tails. If a sorcerer can enter the white bull��s legs and use their soul as a prism, they can refract into the Rainbow Tail and ascend along the light pirs to the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm.��


    Ashe decided to retract his earlier statement: the White Bull Hypothesis was indeed more convincing than the Golden Seven Sorcerers Hypothesis. After all, thetter required gathering seven sorcerers, something even Ashe couldn��t achieve without recruiting four more operators. Moreover, that hypothesis only ended with turning into raindrops falling towards the sky. The White Bull Hypothesis, however, provided a direct ascension path, and the scientific reasoning of ��white light refracting into a rainbow�� greatly appealed to Ashe.


    ��So what prevented the handbook��s owner from verifying the hypothesis?�� Sonya asked.


    ��The white bull is too fast,�� Deya exined. ��The white bull never stops; it moves forward by several seconds every second. Moreover, its front legs are usually in the breach area of the Golden Flow. It��s almost impossible for a sorcerer to bypass the Golden Flow and enter the front legs.��


    Ashe said, ��What about the hind legs����


    ��The hind legs are surrounded by the static domain,�� Sonya pondered. ��If a sorcerer fails to maintain rtive stillness with the hind legs and gets thrown into the static domain, there��s no saving them.��


    ��And no one knows if the white bull��s four legs are even dangerous,�� Deya continued. ��The handbook��s owner��s most sessful attempt only got him within ten meters of the front legs. He never saw anyone enter the white bull��s legs, so they might be crushed by the bull.��


    ��Moreover�� he felt that the white bull��s legs might not exist at all.��


    ��What do you mean?��


    ��Although we can see the white pir clearly from here,�� Deya said, ��once you get close to the legs, the white pir bes invisible. The handbook��s owner only inferred the position of the front legs by the density of the Golden Flow. He once pursued the hind legs but was thrown into the static domain upon turning around. The closer he got, the less he could see the hind legs, almost as if����


    ��Almost as if it were a rainbow,�� Sonya concluded.

 Chapter 394: The Second Trap

    Chapter 394: The Second Trap


    ��It seems like we still can��t smuggle ourselves into the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm,�� Ashe sighed.


    In fact, this was to be expected. If there were truly a simple and understandable way to smuggle oneself in, the sky over the Time Continent wouldn��t asionally echo with the wails of sorcerers being attacked by knowledge creatures. Many sorcerers might know about the golden seven sorcerers and the White Bull Hypothesis, but these hypotheses are too difficult to realize. Left with no other choice, they can only fly straight into the sky, trying to grasp the elusive Rainbow Tail.


    Golden sorcerers are the hardest to ept their fate.


    They are more talented than silver sorcerers, and in the mundane world, they are generally top-tier managers, often having seen the boundless glory of Sanctuary sorcerers. The secr world considers them geniuses, and they think of themselves as geniuses too.


    But the chasm between realms and sects is harder to cross than any other challenge. If your girlfriend doesn��t love you, you can use hypnosis and charm to win her back. If you��re shot in the head, a healing sorcerer can use hydrotherapy to reconstruct it. Even water that��s been spilled can flow back with time-reversal spells. But if you can��t understand high-level knowledge, then you just can��t understand it.


    If the smartest people in the world haven��t found a smuggling route after hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands of years, then the unlearned Mudborn Ashe naturally doesn��t have much hope for himself either.


    ��Tsk,�� Sonya bit her nail, ��If we could get to the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm, all our troubles would be solved.��


    ��Trouble��s here,�� Ashe suddenly said. The sports car made a sharp 45�� turn, elerating diagonally upward.


    Sonya immediately gripped her sword hilt and drew it slightly. Deya pulled out a Water-born Thread with both hands. The two of them dropped their yful demeanor and instantly enteredbat mode.On the virtual realm map in front of Ashe, the eastern region showed a group of raptors and some Thousand-feathered Drakes. Clearly, it was a mixed unit from the heroic soul legion.


    Tonight, they had already arrived in the Spider Tower area.


    Along the way, Ashe had hardly stopped to scavenge any resource points. Except for asionally crushing a sorcerer projection to rest for a moment, most of the time he was driving, chasing the White Bull.


    Their goal tonight was not to scavenge, not to grow stronger, but simply to survive. ording to the pact with the Empress, they only needed to linger in the Spider Tower area for more than three hours to be able to leave the Virtual Realm. Thus, Ashe��s best strategy was naturally to keep driving and changing locations. Once the three hours were up, they could return to reality, preventing the Empress��s heroic soul legion from surrounding and annihting them.


    The naive thought that ��the Empress��s heroic souls might not be able to lock onto their coordinates�� never crossed Ashe��s mind. Ashe even suspected that the pact marks on his body might serve as natural trackers.


    Steel machinery inevitably outperforms flesh and blood. With the sports car operating at peak performance, Ashe easily shook off the heroic soul legion from the east. However, before they could catch their breath, traces of the heroic soul legion appeared in the northeast.


    Ashe pondered for a moment and decided to elerate towards them. The heroic soul legion also immediately sped up, trying to block the road. With no other choice, Ashe continued at a 45�� angle, speeding northwest.


    But as Ashe tried to head directly north, the heroic soul legion once again attempted to block his path.


    This time, however, Ashe finally sensed something was off.


    ��It��s a hunt!�� Ashe mmed on the brakes, causing the sports car to carve a donut-shaped arc on the grass. ��They��ve been herding us west�� There must be an ambush waiting there. We��re going to charge straight through. Ready?��


    ��One!��


    ��One!��


    After the operators�� urgent short responses, the sports car roared like a giant beast. Its front end sprouted wicked fangs, transforming into a war monster ready for battle!


    The steel monster tore through the Rain Curtain. Ashe noticed that the northern troops were already armed, but there were still gaps on the sides. Just as they were about to crash headlong into each other, the sports car gracefully veered at a right angle. The rear end spewed a thick, green Toxic Mist, sttering all over the northern troops, before speeding off to smash through the fragile northeastern defense line!


    The wind howled, the rain pounded, and the monsters on either side scattered in panic!


    Boom!


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!


    The slender and sinister Thousand-feathered Drakes transformed into Red Hat long rifle soldiers. They lowered their hats and raised their long rifles, aiming at the sports car and firing. Although their firing rate was much slower than in their original form, their uracy was exceptionally high, and the damage was significant!


    The ��Refracting Wall�� rippled, and the energy of the shield rapidly decreased, but it was all worth it. Sure enough, the heroic soul legion lying in ambush to the south and west immediately surged out. Ashe pushed the sports car to its limits, desperately charging towards the heroic soul legion blocking the northeast direction. Soon, they left their pursuers behind, leaving only a trail of lingering Toxic Mist.


    As Ashe watched the heroic soul legion disappear one by one from the virtual realm map, he sighed with relief. ��We should be safe tonight�� right?��


    At that moment, he noticed a special golden area upying three full grids on the virtual realm map to the northeast.


    The description of the special area read: ��Everyone will die of old age, including you, so hurry up.��


    ��The Golden Flow���� Ashe muttered. ��Could it be����


    From afar, the ground-shaking sound of marching thundered. Ashe looked down at the virtual realm map and saw the heroic soul legion emerging from all directions!


    Many Swiftst Dragons!


    Many Dog-headed Dragons!


    Many de Fish Dragons!


    The outermost regions of the virtual realm map were painted a vivid, blood-red color. The only escape route was the golden area to the northeast, but that was the Golden Flow, which could reduce them to skeletons in mere seconds!


    The sports car engine slowly came to a halt. The sorcerers sat on the grass, quietly awaiting the butcher��s arrival. The operators sensed what was happening. Deya stood on her seat, facing the rear, while Sonya gently ced a hand on Ashe��s shoulder.


    ��No apologies,�� she said.


    The real ambush direction was the northeast.


    The heroic soul legion had deliberately driven them west, luring them into breaking out in the opposite direction, right into the trap the Empress��s heroic souls had set for them!


    There was even the Golden Flow blocking the way, giving the Empress��s heroic souls more time to deploy their forces!


    The timing: Ashe and his team had to stay for three hours.


    The terrain: The Empress��s heroic souls were familiar with the surroundings.


    The manpower: The Empress��s heroic souls had mobilized arge part of the heroic soul legion from the Spider Tower!


    Ashe lost this time with such swiftness and decisiveness that there was no room for excuses orints.


    At that moment, a familiar voice rang out amidst the golden rain.


    ��You are clever people,�� Danzel��s words sent chills down their spines. ��And I am best at dealing with clever people. All it takes is a few insignificant ws, and a pretense of regret at having my schemes uncovered, to lull your cautious hearts into a deep, lion-like slumber.��


    ��This is the second time you��ve fallen for it, and it will be thest.��


    ��Still, since we know each other, I can offer you some courtesy. There is still a bit of time before the three hours are up. You can indulge in these final moments of your lives��love if you wish, entertain yourselves if you wish. That way, when you die, you might leave behind a decent Sorcerer��s Handbook.��


    Their spirits wavered, their will faltered, and their fighting intent crumbled.


    The Empress��s heroic soul��s seeminglypassionate words were filled with overwhelming killing intent. Even with them cornered, the Empress��s heroic soul seized every opportunity to strike at them, perhaps as revenge for the setback in the cabin, or maybe it was just her personal sadistic pleasure��Ashe leaned towards thetter.


    In this tense moment, Sonya suddenly leaned close to Ashe, whispering in his ear, ��You still haven��t answered me.��


    ��What?��


    ��What were you thinking earlier?��


    Ashe��s attention was forcibly pulled from their dire situation. ��Why are you so curious?��


    Sonya blinked. ��Because it��s been a long time since you��ve talked to me about your life in reality.��

 Chapter 395: I am the Ornament

    Chapter 395: I am the Ornament


    Screech��


    From the rain curtain ahead came the spine-chilling sound of steel bones grinding, as if the listener��s own spine was being bent.


    The sports car had retreated to its limit, with just ten meters behind it the ever-flowing Golden Flow. If they crossed one more thinyer of the rain curtain, the heavy weight of time would instantly crush their souls.


    The most terrifying monster is time; it is everywhere, relentless, chewing on all beings, devouring civilizations.


    In the virtual realm map, only three colors remained: the green safe zone where Ashe was, the ��seeking one��s own doom�� red zone painted by the heroic soul legion, and the golden zone of the Golden Flow.


    Though the Empress had promised them time for love, she hadn��t said it would be enough space. The heroic soul legion was pressing in, leaving Ashe with no room to maneuver.


    Ten meters beyond the rain curtain, the horrific and grotesque heroic soul legion was poised for action, ready for their midnight snack.


    Yet they remained outside the rain curtain, their figurespletely obscured by the Reverse Golden Rain. Ashe and hispanions could only hear the rustling, gnashing, and scraping sounds, which was even more unnerving than if they had charged through��their imaginations led a grand rebellion in their minds, eager to overthrow the dictatorship of reason and wee the arrival of the terror.


    Besides the rebellious imagination, the court��s instinct for survival was also scheming. This thinyer of rain curtain allowed the rebel survival instincts to swell endlessly, singing triumphantly as it defeated the guards of dignity, smashed the inner minister of courage, and dragged reason from the throne, forcing it to kneel and surrender.There is great terror between life and death.


    This was no joke; the Empress�� heroic soul legion would definitely swarm them, devouring thempletely, leaving at most ayer of soul skin to escape back to their bodies��but just like 100 milliliters of blood can��t drive the body, a tiny bit of soul fragment can��t reboot the operating system of consciousness.


    Even if they hadn��t offended the local natives, other sorcerers dying in the Virtual Realm wasn��t umon. The Virtual Realm isn��t a charity, nor is it a lenient Party A. It��s a cold, indifferent filter that selects melodies that can adapt to the environment and destroys the dissonant noises that don��t belong to this era��whether you��re an outdated aria or an avant-garde rock.


    The power of a Secret Incarnation is absolutely beyond their realm��s reach. Such a noisy dissonance naturally attracts widespread condemnation��though it might not be a thousand, at least a hundred armed units were besieging them.


    The dominance of academic sorcerers makes sense; after all, adventurers might find themselves dead and buried at any moment, whereas academics can trade time for safety, steadily improving their sect��s realm and climbing step by step to the higher echelons of the Virtual Realm�� Ashe couldn��t help but let his mind wander.


    Smack!


    A ssh of unconditional malicended outside the protective shield of the ��Refracting Wall,�� the dark green rotting aura almost melting their souls through their respiratory tracts. The sorcerers tensed up in fear, but the Empress�� heroic soul giggled and said, ��Oops, my spider��s throat was a bit itchy, and I identally spat. I hope I didn��t disturb you?��


    Ashe angrily shouted, ��You did disturb us! We were just getting into the zone, and now you��ve ruined the mood. What are you doing!?��


    ��Hmm~ How about I offer myself aspensation?��


    ��Sure, sure! We��re short one yer, you came just in time!��


    ��Sorry, I prefer to take the initiative. How about I send someone to bring you over?��


    Ashe��s heart skipped a beat, but the sword princess responded before he could, ��We only ept multiyer games, no solo affairs allowed.��


    ��Oh~ Times have changed. Sorcerers today are much more open than in my time,�� Danzel��s voice was full of amusement. ��What a pity, so vibrant, so beautiful, so delicious����


    ��Hearing my own eulogy while still alive is quite a novel experience,�� Sonya sneered, turning to Ashe and whispering, ��Don��t even think about going over and threatening the Empress! You��d need more than a few lives to survive that!��


    ��Huh?�� Deya was stunned. ��So, the Observer��s hesitation just now was about nning to assassinate themander? I thought����


    ��What else? Could there be any other possibility?�� Ashe interrupted the Witch righteously.


    He nced at Deya��s hair, which was starting to darken, and felt a slight sinking in his heart.


    ��Thest time we managed to gain an advantage over the Empress, it wasn��t because we were so powerful, but because the Amnesia Cabin helped us a lot,�� Sonya said. ��This time, the Empress is prepared. Any w she shows is just a trap; there��s no opportunity for us to exploit.��


    ��So what do we do?�� Deya��s voice was a bit shaky. Although she hadn��t entered the duet yet, her tone was vastly different from before, a mocking sneer forming at the corner of her mouth. ��Are we just going to wait here to die? Maybe you two might be satisfied with that oue, but there are still people waiting for me to return in the real world.��


    ��Fight our way out!�� Sonya ignored Deya��s unpleasant tone, dering resolutely, ��The Refracting Wall hasn��t been broken, and the sports car still has the Evil de to clear the way. Ourbat strength is intact! The Empress has been setting up here for days; all our strategies are just bubbles that she can pop effortlessly. The only way is to break out with force, to carve out a bloody path with all our might!��


    As she spoke, the vige girl��s calm face showed no trace of anger, but her right hand had already gripped the sword hilt tightly, and the red in her eyes deepened with a dark intensity.


    The Witch��s hair color grew dirtier, but her eyes only shone brighter. Her innocent, cute face revealed a vivid, dripping madness. She even put her arm around the sword Princess�� shoulder,ughing and saying, ��Haha, I like this n. I didn��t expect that despite all your little schemes, you��d still be so adorable at a critical moment~��


    What part of this n that screamed ��reckless�� had anything adorable about it?


    Though Ashe grumbled inwardly, the operators�� states relieved him. What he feared most was that the sword Princess and the Witch would lose their sanity and judgment under the terror of life and death. After all, just suppressing the insurgent imagination and survival instincts within himself had already drained much of his energy. If he had to deal with one or two more burdens, Ashe��s mindset would copse.


    Even if the sword Princess is stunning and the Witch is adorable, if they became burdensome negative monsters at this moment, Ashe would downgrade their trust level in his heart.


    Nothing is more exhausting than having ipetent teammates, especially at the project��s most critical moment. The Virtual Realm team needs not mascots or ornaments but reliablerades.


    However, not only were the sword Princess and the Witch not burdens, but on the contrary, Ashe felt he was their essory. Facing life-and-death crises, they were braver than one another, wishing they could sh through the gates of life and death with one sword, and open the doors of right and wrong with their hands. Fear, regret, despair, and cowardice all transformed within them into the most resolute killing intent. Standing with them, Ashe felt as if hemanded thousands of troops.


    But Ashe pushed them back into their seats. ��Wait a moment; let me see if there��s another way.��


    ��Paramour!�� Ashe called out loudly, ��I have a gift for you!��


    ��What gift?�� Deya, Sonya, and Danzel��s voices rang out simultaneously.


    Ashe pressed down the operators�� heads and shouted, ��My soul summoning spirit, do you like it?��


    ��It��s so-so, not particrly satisfying,�� Danzel said very picky. ��But since it��s from you, I��ll reluctantly ept it.��


    ��After epting it, can you let us go?�� Ashe spread his hands. ��We don��t have deep hatred between us. How about we pretend nothing happened? You fight your wars, and we explore our Virtual Realm.��


    ��What are you talking about, my dear little paramour,�� Danzel chuckled. ��If you don��t die, how can I take back the soul summoning spirit? Don��t you remember, once a spirit is abandoned in the Virtual Realm, it immediately disappears? Only the spirits that drop upon the sorcerer��s death, with the soul imprint of the original owner, can linger briefly, allowing other sorcerers a chance to capture them.��


    ��But didn��t the Pact say if you catch me, I have to voluntarily hand over the soul summoning spirit���� Ashe was puzzled. If he couldn��t hand over the soul summoning spirit, why would the Empress include this use in the Pact?


    ��So the real meaning of that use is that once I��m caught by you, I��ll obedientlymit suicide without resistance,�� Danzel spoke lightly, her tone cheerful like she was singing. ��Every use has a hidden trap beneath its literal meaning. You epted all of them without changing a single one. I really had to hold back myughter at the time. My dear paramour, you��re just so considerate.��


    ��But you still have concerns.��


    Facing the Empress��s mockery, Ashe wasn��t angry at all. He calmly said, ��If it were really just as simple as catching me, and I would obedientlymit suicide to hand over the soul summoning spirit, you wouldn��t waste so much time and effort chatting with me. You��d just rush over and tear me apart.��


    Theughter outside the Rain Curtain gradually ceased.


    ��You��re using your army to hunt me, using mockery to suppress me, using your legion to intimidate me, and using words to tease me. Even I feel tired for you. If you want to devour me, why not juste directly and peel me open? Why go through all this trouble? Would this whole process somehow improve the quality of my flesh to a premium level?�� Ashe said. ��You��re trying every possible way to wear down my will to resist. There��s only one reason for this �� to make mepletely lose my judgment.��


    ��If I��m not mistaken, once we be hysterical and lose our rationality, you��ll present us with a very generous offer. The content would probably be something like, as long as I willingly die by your hand, you��ll spare mypanions, and you won��tpletely kill me. You��ll just take the soul summoning spirit from my soul�� right?��

 Chapter 396: Crossing the Golden Flow

    Chapter 396: Crossing the Golden Flow


    Beyond the Rain Curtain, silence reigned, as if the Heroic Soul Legion had vanished without a trace.


    ��You��re afraid I��ll go down with the ship.��


    Ashe dered with absolute certainty, ��Yes, the Pact states I��m not allowed to abandon or destroy the ��soul summoning�� spirit, but the enforcement of this Pact lies in the Virtual Realm��s immediate punishment. Which means, if I believe I can bear the risk of the Virtual Realm��s punishment, this Pact is no more than a piece of useless paper to me.��


    ��The Virtual Realm can only punish after the fact; it can��t stop me midway. At most, it can kill me once the dust settles, but if destroying the ��soul summoning�� spirit means death, and being caught by you also means death, I��d rather die at the hands of the Virtual Realm than bepletely consumed by you, my dear paramour.��


    The world fell silent as the Reverse Golden Rain silently fell towards the sky. After a moment, Danzel��s voice slowly emerged, ��There��s just one thing that needs correcting.��


    ��In the ��generous n�� I��ve prepared for you, there��s only one spot for someone to leave alive.��


    Ashe frowned, his expression turning cold. ��So I��m definitely going to die, which means����


    ��You have to choose someone to die with your own hands,�� Danzel��s voice was now unabashedly filled with amusement. ��One lives, one half-dead, one fully dead. That��s the ending I��ve prepared for you. Do you like it?��


    ����I��ve heard that heroic souls can only regain their emotions by retrieving soul fragments from hell,�� Ashe said. ��I��m curious, in this vile form that makes one want to vomit, how much of your former charm remains?����You seem to know us well. If we��re talking proportions, about one-sixth,�� Danzel said cheerfully. ��Have you decided who��s going to die? Your lover, or your sister?��


    ��Oh, and a reminder: if you kill yourpanion with your own hands, it means she��ll exit the Virtual Realm early, viting the ��three-hour stay in the Virtual Realm�� condition, which will result in her being killed by the Virtual Realm. I don��t recognize that kind of death! It has to be done by us. I want you to watch yourpanion being dismembered and devoured by my adorable minions.��


    ����Did the Gospel Incarnation find you in a trash can?�� Ashe said with disgust. ��Thank goodness you love a god. If you loved a person, you��d have worn them out long ago. Being loved or hated by you must be a disaster.��


    ��Oh, stop it, I��m not that bad,�� Danzelughed. ��By the way, I like smart people who know the times and hate those who say, ��No, I��d rather die than let you have your way.����


    ��So�� are you a smart person or a stupid one?�� the Empress��s tone dripped with arrogance. ��Even if you��ve guessed my n, what difference does it make? Do you even have a choice?��


    Indeed.


    Ashe��s situation hadn��t improved one bit despite his sharp mind. This was an open Scheme. If Ashe was scared senseless by the Empress, he��d naturally make the emotional choice. If he was smart enough to see through her Scheme, he��d make the rational choice.


    With only two options, there��s no real freedom of choice. Anyone would have to choose the lesser evil.


    As Ashe fell silent, the Sword Princess and the Witch turned to look at him.


    Especially the Witch. Her hair quickly lost its luster, the Water-born Thread flickering between her fingers, her eyes growing increasingly murky, like a cat bristling in rm. If Ashe made a wrong move, she��d react violently.


    ��It��s hard to make a decision, isn��t it? Especially when it involves your ownpanions, and you have to pronounce their death sentence yourself,�� Danzel said suddenly, almost kindly. ��I��m not that bad, my dear paramour. How about I help you out?��


    ��I��m sure you��ve considered the possibility of breaking through head-on, right? Here��s the deal: when you make your breakout attempt, I��ll have my minions focus their attacks on your twopanions. You just need to give a look or a gesture indicating which one you want to abandon, and my adorable minions will do the rest. They��ll tear apart and devour thepanion you��ve chosen to forsake. Yourpanion will think they just died in battle, and you can console yourself that it was merely the result of a failed breakout n, something you didn��t intend.��


    As she said this, the Witch��s shoulders trembled slightly.


    Even though she quickly turned her head away to hide her expression from her teammates, both Ashe and Sonya knew that their breakout n hadpletely fallen apart.


    On one hand, the Empress��s heroic soul had reached a level of Mental Miracle with her words, easily sowing discord among them. On the other hand, the Bond with the Witch hadn��t reached a level of unconditional trust.


    A chill ran down his spine as Ashe finally realized the level of the enemy they were facing. Though they were only up against three sorcerers, the Empress��s heroic soul had spared no expense in deploying arge legion, using the terrain to corner them, and constantly digging into the cracks in their team��s rtionships to gain even a slight advantage�� They hadn��t even engaged in a formal battle yet, Ashe hadn��t even seen her legion, but he knew they had already lost.


    The battle for sorcerers ends before it even begins.


    Ashe let out a breath. ��Witch.��


    ��Hmm?��


    ��I know whatever I say won��t matter because you think I��m closer to the Sword Princess. You know that the Bond between you and me hasn��t reached the level of unconditional trust��perhaps it never will because Bonds are something that depends a lot on fate.��


    ��Hmm.��


    ��But I need you to trust me,�� Ashe said earnestly. ��We must work together to����


    ��Does saying this help?�� Sonya abruptly interrupted Ashe. ��Witch, wrap a thread around my neck.��


    ��What?��


    ��If you feel the Observer has abandoned you, cut my throat immediately. Such a severe injury will send me straight to the Virtual Realm, viting the Pact and invoking its punishment,�� Sonya said seriously. ��I won��t ask you to trust the Observer as I do. If you think he will only save me, then I��ll ce my life in your hands.��


    ��And put one on me too,�� Ashe suddenly said, his tone as casual as asking for a cigarette.


    Deya looked at them and nodded firmly. ��Alright!��


    The Witch did as she was told. Two transparent Water-born Threads wrapped around their necks, one in each of the Witch��s hands, as if she were holding two balloon heads. Though neither Ashe nor Sonya felt any difort, they couldn��t shake the feeling that their heads weren��t quite stable.


    ��Alright.�� Sonya took a deep breath and gripped her sword hilt tightly. ��Let��s carve a bloody path����


    ��Who said we��re fighting our way out?��


    The Witch and the sword Princess were stunned. Suddenly, the sports car roared to life, and the powerful thrust wiped away all their extraneous thoughts.


    Danzel��s voice, filled with both rage and shock, boomed like thunder. ��Paramour,e back! Are you trying to get yourself killed?��


    ��No, even if I die, I won��t let you have your way!�� Ashe responded calmly. As the heroic soul legion charged with a roar, he drove the sports car into the Golden Flow area!


    The moment they crossed the Rain Curtain, the car��s Refracting Wall quickly disintegrated, and even the car itself began to corrode and fall apart. At that moment, Ashe stretched his hands back, and the sword Princess and the Witch immediately grasped his hands, understanding his intent.


    Red and blue hues surfaced on the sorcerers�� bodies, forming a fairytale-like armor as if drawn with crayons.


    Armed Troop Type: Two-tone Anchor!


    As the car shattered into pieces, all three leapt forward simultaneously. The heavy flow of time battered their souls, making them feel as if their spirits were weighed down with lead and their thoughts rusted and sluggish.


    However, as they tumbled to the edge of the Golden Flow, a surge of immense joy filled their hearts.


    Anchoring activated!


    ��Anchoring: When you encounter any external influence (physical attack, mental shock, curse weakening, etc.) or voluntarily change yourself (consume spellforce, enhance yourself, etc.), there is a chance to trigger the anchoring effect. Once triggered, for the next 5 seconds, you cannot be affected by external influences, nor can you affect the external world.��


    Although there was only a 20% chance, the Golden Flow area elerated the aging of sorcerers every single moment!


    In their ��anchored�� state, they no longer felt the corrosion of time. The Golden Flow vividly appeared before them, with the golden waters stirring waves of history. Time spirits bathing and swimming in the Golden Flow curiously watched the Uninvited Guests. Rare Spirits like ��Reverse Day,�� ��Hear Month,�� and ��Fixed Year�� peeked their heads out from the river, keeping their distance yet unable to resist observing the sorcerers, showing no fear at all.


    ��Let��s go.�� Ashe noticed his voice had be more resonant. ��We need to cross the Golden Flow.��

 Chapter 397: Unexpected

    Chapter 397: Unexpected


    So heavy.


    Even with the protection of ��anchoring,�� the moment Ashe stepped into the Golden Flow Water, a deep sense of powerlessness overwhelmed his soul.


    It wasn��t because of the speed of the current or the weight of the water. In fact, ��anchoring�� literally blocked any external factors from affecting him. In this state, Ashe could wade through mountains of filth without getting stained.


    But ��anchoring�� only blocked external influences on the sorcerer; it didn��t prevent the sorcerer from receiving external information through his senses.


    When one is too weak, an overload of information can be poisonous.


    The countless echoes stirred by the Golden Flow Water, the myriad reflections in the surging waves. Ashe seemed to hear the sighs of countless beings as they lived and died, and saw the intertwined images of all living things over long ages. Just processing this overload of information almost made his soul freeze!


    With his limited information processing ability, it was impossible for him to digest so much information at once. It was like being a struggling student in a math ss, only able to grasp the simplest concepts, while the advanced forms on the ckboard were beyondprehension and retention.


    But now, it was as if the teacher was drilling into the student��s head, forcibly stuffing hundreds of gigabytes of study materials into the student��s brain!


    Even if Ashe closed his eyes and covered his ears, he could still feel that what was flowing over him wasn��t just water, but the lives of all beings. When he moved his fingers backward, he swept through the pasts of millions of people; when he sshed his feet in the river, he inadvertently trampled on the glorious history of a city.Suddenly, he had an epiphany: the so-called Time Sect didn��t refer to a force called ��time,�� but rather the flow of all beings forming time. The essence of time is flow.


    Each drop of water in the Golden Flow Water originated from reality, possibly from people, long-lived species like elves, ephemeral mayflies, or perhaps floating clouds, immobile rocks, and withering leaves. Understanding this, Ashe found that while he was still constantly receiving excessive information, it no longer affected his thinking. Moreover, his excellent forgetting mechanism kicked in, quickly throwing the new files crammed into his brain straight into the recycling bin forplete destruction.


    No wonder the Golden Flow Water is considered the most terrifying natural phenomenon on the Time Continent. Even ��anchoring�� couldn��t fully protect a sorcerer. As Ashe couldn��t help but worry about his operators, he looked up and saw the two of them already swimming ahead of him.


    The Witch swam the fastest, followed by the Sword Princess��there��s no sorcerer who can��t swim. Swimming is a basic requirement for crossing the Sea of Knowledge, so even a sorcerer from the desert bes a swimming expert.


    Faced with the informational onught of the Golden Flow Water, Ashe needed a second to update his mental processes, while the Sword Princess and Witch adapted to the river��s environment almost instantly.


    Ashe couldn��t help but marvel: No wonder they were top-rated geniuses selected by ��Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook��. Ordinary people like him were indeed far behind them.


    But they had only crossed the basic threshold of the Golden Flow Water. The real danger was yet toe.


    The ��anchoring��sted only five seconds, and the moment it wore off, the immense pressure of time nearly crushed the three of them instantly!


    Ashe felt his stamina plummet rapidly, his vision blurring as if he were viewing through an old phone camera, and his throat produced a broken, fan-like rasping sound. His thoughts slowed, like screws that had locked up.


    Although Ashe quickly re-entered the ��anchoring�� state, in those brief moments exposed to the Golden Flow Water, he had almost aged decades!


    This was to be expected. Simply approaching the Golden Flow Water elerated aging, and they were now swimming directly in it. It was a miracle the river hadn��t dissolved them on the spot.


    Because of the ��anchoring�� state, Ashe couldn��t expend soul energy to restore his aged soul body. He had no choice but to continue swimming. Although the river wasn��t wide, and it seemed like he could swim across with a burst of speed, Ashe estimated he could only withstand two or three more waves of this before he would be literally swallowed by the ��tides of time.��


    The ��anchoring�� effect of the Two-tone Anchor had only a 20% activation chance. Unless the activation chance could be raised to 100%, the Golden Flow Water would continue to be a forbidden zone for the living!


    The Golden Flow was teeming with time spirits. Seeing Ashe swimming so bravely, they might have mistaken him for a new species of spirit and swarmed around to greet him. Among them, Ashe recognized more than a dozen rare spirits, including the precious spirit ��Hear Day�� that the Witch had lost in the Amnesia Cabin. However, he had no time to spare for even picking up trash, and he struggled desperately to swim forward.


    Perhaps because this section of the Golden Flow was just a small tributary, Ashe and the others soon swam halfway across. When they were only one or two meters from the shore, the five seconds psed, and the anchoring deactivated once more.


    Ashe was prepared to endure the time wash again, but perhaps the white bull had moved away, causing the current of the Golden Flow to suddenly elerate. The churning waves sshed several drops of golden liquid, and one dropnded on Ashe��s ear, slipping into his soul like silky milk.


    Even though Ashe immediately re-entered the ��anchoring�� state with his next breath, his ear still exploded with sound. But this time, what he heard was not the echoes of others�� lives, but the echoes of his own soul!


    ��Such an ugly baby, looks a lot like you.��


    ��No, more like you. I��m not this ugly.��


    ��I just gave birth; can��t you cut me some ck? Clearly, the baby looks ugly like you!��


    ��You two, all newborns look this ugly!��


    ��Brother, why are we different sizes?��


    ��Ashe, that��s normal. When you grow up�� ��(�á㧥��;)��What!? Wait, why?��


    ��(*/�أ�*) Shh, Ashe, keep your voice down. This is my ssmate, here to study������


    ��Mom! Brother brought a girl home!��


    ��Such an ugly baby, looks like your dad.��


    ��Do you have any manners? How can you insult my grandson like this? If you want to insult your brother, just say it directly!��


    ��Exactly, exactly!��


    ��I found an internship. If I��m lucky, I might get a job at thispany.��


    ��Did you find a girlfriend?��


    ��It��s a mobile gamepany. They offer fourteen sries and a year-end bonus, and they provide housing benefits����


    ��Did you find a girlfriend?��


    ��Can��t you ask something else?��


    ��How much did your fund lose?��


    ��I didn��t find a girlfriend.��


    ��I told you there��s no need toe back. Dad just strained his back a little; I��ve got it covered.��


    ��You, you stay away!��


    ��What��s the matter, Igor? Didn��t you want to fight me ten times? Now you��ve won once, and I��ve won once. There are still eight more times to go.��


    ��Cough, cough, haha! What a pity, Valcas! You almost dragged me down with you, but thankfully the Executioner was faster�� thankfully you��re an Elf despised by the people!��


    ��Freya,e with me. I need you.��


    ��Bewitcher, the Gospel Kingdom almost doesn��t have your kind anymore�� But neither of you are sorcerers, so how did you cross the virtual realm passage? Never mind, from today onwards, you��re employees of my Funeral Firm.��


    The Echo stirred memories, and the memories surged with emotion!


    His ears were filled with these vague voices, and Ashe��s mind was almost instantly shattered by the noise. His soul was trapped in the past echoes, making it difficult even to keep himself afloat, let alone continue swimming!


    The Golden Time Flow, a moment, a lifetime!


    The Sword Princess seemed to notice something was wrong with him and struggled back to pull him along. However, this dy caused the five seconds to slip by quickly, and the third wash of the Golden Flow Water almost turned the two of them into withered corpses!


    They had lost the ability to cross the Golden Flow.


    ��rpha Senhaeser,�� Danzel said, ��you have an armor specialty. Try to bring them back.��


    The named heroic soulmander nodded silently, armed his troop type, and stepped into the Golden Flow region. The time power of the Golden Flow was just as effective on heroic souls, but the armor��s reduction effect was equally effective against time. For amander like rpha, his maximum armor reduction reached an astounding 95%. Although soul power consumption was enormous, it could have a decisive tactical effect at critical moments.


    rpha soon returned to the legion, empty-handed.


    ��They��re not at the shore,�� rpha exined. ��To cross the Golden Flow, you need to break through the Time Barrier. My Time Sect realm is insufficient.��


    ��Time Barrier���� Danzel bit her thin lip, feeling a wave of helplessness.


    She had already maximized the resources at her disposal, but those sorcerers somehow had special troop types that could resist the Golden Flow and even break through the Time Barrier to cross the Golden Flow. The Golden Flow Water itself was toxic to sorcerers; only geniuses who understood the essence of time could utilize or even touch it. This was the so-called Time Barrier.


    In simple terms, the Time Barrier was a mechanism for gauging a sorcerer��s potential. Only those with the potential to ascend to the legendary realm of the Time Sect could possibly pass through the Time Barrier.


    Though it was merely theoretical potential, the fact that all three sorcerers managed to pass was outrageous. Then again, the fact that they could team up and drive through the Time Continent was already absurd enough. Compared to that, being genius sorcerers seemed almost insignificant.


    Unexpected, unexpected, unexpected��


    Although this was just their first pursuit, there were many more Spider Tower rounds toe, and these three sorcerers would undoubtedly stay in the Time Continent for many more turns. But Danzel��s one-sixth soul fragment was telling her��using the same trick on them twice would be ineffective.


    She needed to resort to more underhanded tactics, she thought.

 Chapter 398: Golden Level Time Sect

    Chapter 398: Golden Level Time Sect


    When Ashe regained consciousness, he felt someone in his arms.


    He blinked, his gaze slowly drifting downward��


    And then he saw a pair of ck and white silk legs.


    The Witch had ced her legs on him, curling up like a child in the Sword Princess��s arms. Although he was relieved that it wasn��t an operator in his arms, being used as a footrest by the Witch was something he couldn��t quite ept��especially since she hadn��t taken off her boots!


    As Ashe woke up, Sonya also regained consciousness. She first felt the soft warmth in her arms, blushed slightly, and looked down to see it was the Witch. Instantly relieved, she then turned her head and saw Ashe.


    Noticing the reproach in Ashe��s eyes, Sonya��s nose twitched slightly, she pouted and avoided his gaze, then nudged the Witch. ��Wake up!��


    Deya sat up groggily, her hair color now back to normal, and yawned, ��I��m exhausted����


    ��I remember that the Sword Princess and I didn��t make it across the Golden Flow,�� Ashe said, ncing sideways at Sonya, who pretended not to see.


    ��I was the one who pulled you up,�� Deya said. ��But I wasn��t foolish enough to turn back in the Golden Flow. I climbed to the shore first and then pulled you both up.��Sonya blushed deeply with shame��she had been called a fool by the Witch and had no way to refute it.


    ��But what did you use to pull us up���� Ashe trailed off, realizing the answer himself.


    The Water-born Thread!


    Both he and the Sword Princess had the Water-born Thread ced by the Witch around their necks! Initially, it was just a ��mutual destruction line�� to ease the Witch��s mind, but it had unexpectedly be their ��lifeline��!


    Sonya asked, ��But wouldn��t the Water-born Thread cut our necks?��


    ��I can increase the density of the water spell spirit, making the Water-born Thread soft and tough,�� Deya said, spreading her hands. ��For example, the Water-born Thread I hold in my hands feels as soft as a teddy bear��s paw, no matter how hard I pull, it won��t cut my hands.��


    ��How long have we been resting?�� Ashe asked.


    ��About a few minutes, I think,�� Deya replied uncertainly. ��After dragging you out of the Golden Flow, I copsed from exhaustion myself.��


    Ashe opened the virtual realm map and found that the surrounding area was normal, with no trace of the heroic soul legion. Although Ashe didn��t know how long the Golden Flow stretched, neither did the heroic soul legion��in themander��s map, the Golden Flow was the only unmarkablendmark because its position changed every day, every hour, and every second.


    The Golden Flow was the trace left by the white bull, which was constantly moving, so the Golden Flow was always changing. Generally speaking, there were actually only two main branches of the Golden Flow, corresponding to the two front legs of the white bull, but these main branches split into countless smaller branches, forming awork of the Golden Flow that created normal flowing spacetime.


    The tributary they had just crossed might be an end branch, extending only a few dozen meters; but it could also be a third-level or even second-level branch, stretching for kilometers, making it impossible for the heroic soul legion to catch up within a few hours.


    Besides, even if the heroic soul legion could rush over, Ashe had no solution. Their soul energy was entirely spent on repairing their soul bodies, leaving no extra energy for movement.


    Moving in the virtual realm required soul energy. Previously, they had saved energy by riding in a car, but now that the sports car was wrecked and they had no other means of transportation�� Wait a minute?


    Ashe suddenly remembered that the Substitute could carry him, couldn��t it?


    Although he could only summon one Substitute, if the Substitute carried him, and he carried the Sword Princess, and the Sword Princess carried the Witch, forming a human stack, wouldn��t they still be able to move normally?


    When Ashe proposed this idea, it was met with unanimous opposition from the Sword Princess and the Witch.


    Sonya said, ��How far can the Substitute go? If the heroic soul legion really catches up, the Substitute definitely won��t outrun them. If the heroic soul legion doesn��t find us, we can leave in a few minutes, so there��s no need toplicate things.��


    ��Just thinking about it feels weird,�� Deya said. ��But it��s interesting that the Substitute can be used this way�� Speaking of which, is the Substitute considered a Rare Spirit?��


    ��In my ce, it doesn��t count,�� the vige girl shook her head. ��But it��s not very useful. The Substitute can��t inherit the sorcerer��s spirits, can��t speak for precise operations, and copses at the slightest touch. In battle, it can only serve as a decoy. In daily life, it can handle some basic chores. However, the Substitute spirit has a huge appetite, needing to consume a silver coin every few days, which is two to three times that of an ordinary spirit�� If a sorcerer is particrlyzy, they might specifically acquire a Substitute spirit.��


    Deya nodded repeatedly. ��Indeed.��


    Ashe also abandoned the idea. Due to the Golden Flow, the surrounding area was actually quite safe, as virtual realm creatures instinctively avoided the Golden Flow.


    If they wandered too far, they might encounter a sorcerer projection or a wandering de Fish Dragon, and moving around now would put them in a weakened state, risking being kicked out of the virtual realm. Escaping only to vite the Pact and die would be too unlucky.


    ��Let��s sort out what we��ve gained and lost,�� Ashe said, rubbing his temples. ��Sword Princess, you����


    ��Witch, we really owe it to you,�� Sonya interrupted, pressing down Deya��s stray hair. ��Without you, we wouldn��t have made it. The Witch is the best!��


    ��Hehe,�� Deya scratched her head shyly. ��I��m not that great����


    ��This time, the Witch really did a great job,�� Ashe said, reaching out to pat the Witch as a gesture of praise, but Deya dodged. ��Compared to that, Sword Princess, you����


    ��Are we still in the Spider Tower area tomorrow?�� Sonya asked.


    Ashe checked the virtual realm map. ��The Celestial Bull will spend half of tomorrow night in the Spider Tower area, but the ��mandatory three-hour stay�� requirement only triggers once when the Celestial Bull enters the Spider Tower area. The next activation will be when the white bull enters the Spider Tower area again, so we don��t need to enter the virtual realm tomorrow.��


    ��Is the car breaking down a problem? The newly made Alchemy Throne won��t fail, will it?��


    ��It should be fine����


    ��Oh, by the way, Witch, you were so arrogant just now. Let me mimic it for you����


    The Sword Princess deflected the conversation.


    Ashe returned to reality, feeling somewhat frustrated.


    The sword Princess��s act of rescuing someone in the Golden Flow was incredibly foolish. Ashe had intended to find an opportunity to give her a stern talking-to, and it had to be in front of the Witch. He wanted to prove that he was impartial, holding every operator to the same strict standards, and that he would never cover for ipetent teammates as the Extreme Mode captain.


    However, the sword Princess was exhibiting her extrovert extraordinaire tendencies, leaving Ashe no chance to interject. It wasn��t that there were no opportunities, but every time Ashe tried to speak, he was cut off by the sword Princess��s pitiful gaze, forcing him to continue refining his words.


    By the time Ashe had formted a stern yet gentle speech in his mind, their Virtual Realm work shift had unknowingly reached the three-hour mark. The sword Princess clocked out immediately, giving Ashe no chance to hold a meeting.


    Still, Ashe knew that deep down, he didn��t want to scold the sword Princess.


    After all, he was a Cult Leader, not a saint. The fact that the sword Princess dared to turn back to save him in such a situation, even if it was a misguided and futile action, made it impossible for Ashe not to feel grateful.


    But Ashe needed to think about the team.


    In their recent sh with the Empress��s heroic soul, the cracks in their team dynamics had beenid bare. On a normal day, things might be fine, but in truly critical moments, the Witch instinctively didn��t trust the two of them. If it came to a situation where someone had to be sacrificed, the Witch would believe she was the one to be discarded first.


    In fact, the Witch��s feeling was urate.


    It��s the existence of favoritism that allows for distinctions in closeness. Ashe was only human, not a Divine Sovereign; how could he possibly achieve apletely emotionless ��fair and just�� stance?


    Even the Blood Moon Sovereign favored the Blood Saint Moonshadow.


    But thinking this way and acting on it are different matters. Ashe had to find a way to demonstrate his stance, or the team would eventually be united only in appearance while divided in reality.


    It was time to show his true management skills!


    But if managing just three people was this troublesome, how would he handle arger team in the future��?


    Ashe sighed. Just as he was about to get up, he suddenly felt someone in his arms.


    He looked down and saw another pair of feet.


    It was Lise. She was sleeping right next to Ashe, her little feet resting on his stomach, drooling on her teddy bear. Ashe remembered that Lise had asked to sleep with himst night. Since he was going to the Virtual Realm anyway, he had let her.


    Why does everyone like to use me as a footrest��?


    Since it was still early dawn, Ashey back down and summoned the Gospel Book. He opened *Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook*, and information immediately popped up.


    ��Growth Report of Death Maniac Sword Princess 5.17~5.23��


    ��Swordsmanship Sect: Golden �� Golden��


    ��Light Sect: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Water Sect: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Time Sect: Silver �� Golden��


    ��Spellforce: Golden One-Winged �� Golden Two-Wings��


    ��Training Evaluation: A!��


    ��Due to receiving an A-level evaluation, Death Maniac Sword Princess obtained the Sorcerer Handbook��s ss enhancement: Annihtion Golden Sorcerer �� Crippled Troop!��


    ��Crippled Troop ss Trait: Deals 20% extra damage to heroic soulmanders, each strike breaks oneyer of troop armor.��


    ��Growth Report of the ck and White Witch 5.17~5.23��


    ��Bond Level: 1 �� 2 (40% experience sharing)��


    ��Mental Sect: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Fist-w Sect: Golden �� Golden��


    ��Time Sect: Silver �� Golden��


    ��Water Sect: Silver �� Silver��


    ��Spellforce: Golden Two-Wings �� Golden Three-Winged��


    ��Training Evaluation: A!��


    ��Due to receiving an A-level evaluation, the ck and White Witch obtained the Sorcerer Handbook��s ss enhancement: Annihtion Follower �� Death Warrior!��


    ��Death Warrior: Deals 20% extra damage to heroic soulmanders, each strike causes a brief pause for heroic soulmanders.��


    Ashe immediately noticed something was wrong��how had both the sword Princess and the Witch��s Time Sect reached the Golden level!?


    It made sense for the Witch to advance to Golden since she naturally possessed a time talent. But the sword Princess had obtained her Time Sect realm from the Amnesia Cabin; she hadn��t undergone any training!


    The Cult Leader realized something, opened his operator interface, and found that his own Time Sect was already at the Golden level!


    His Swordsmanship Sect was still at the Silver level!


    What is this? The hard-earned efforts can��tpare to the sudden windfall?


    Ashe could figure out the reason for their Time Sect��s rapid growth with his toenails��Golden Flow!


    The Virtual Realm is the fairest; you get as much as you give. Although the three of them barely survived in the Golden Flow, they directly faced the essence of time, gaining a massive amount of sect experience, which pushed their Sect Realms to the Golden level!


    However, this kind of thing is probably a one-time deal; only the first adventure yields such huge rewards. Even if they gain experience in a second attempt, it won��t push their Sect Realms to the Sanctuary level.


    On another note, the sword Princess and the Witch��s new sses, ��crippled troop�� and ��death warrior,�� are quite interesting. They seem specifically designed to deal with the heroic soul legion. But right now, they��re trying to avoid the heroic soul legion, so how could they possibly provoke those monsters?


    Besides, the Witch��s Bond Level also increased by one. Perhaps it��s due to the Shared Life they experienced earlier.


    ��Mm����


    Lise let out a cute,zy sound, kicking her legs on his stomach, smacking her lips, and then hugging Ashe, wiping her drool on his clothes. Ashe pushed this 40-pound attachment away and got up to wash.


    Ashe was halfway through brushing his teeth when Lise, still sleepy, walked into the bathroom, tearing open a new toothbrush cup to brush her teeth next to him.


    The little girl nced at the mirror, her body slightly stiffening. Then she quickly finished rinsing and washing her face, turning to hug Ashe.


    ����There��s a towel right there. Do you have to use my pajamas to wipe your hands?�� Ashe said helplessly.


    ��Lise�� shook her head, snuggling into Ashe��s arms like a little pig.


    ��Why are you so clingy today?��


    ����I had a dreamst night.��


    ��A nightmare?��


    ��Lise�� thought for a moment, then shook her head again. ��I dreamt that everyone had someone who cared about them, but I was all alone, excluded.��


    ��Don��t worry, dreams are the opposite of reality. In real life, you��re probably the one excluding everyone else.��


    After washing his face, Ashe took ��Lise�� to the vanity, saying while helping herb her hair, ��Let me do your hair today.��


    ��Hey? Didn��t you always tell me to ask Aunt Bukin for help before?�� Lise was a bit surprised.


    ��What if Aunt Bukin isn��t with us anymore?�� Ashe said calmly. ��We can��t always rely on him, can we?��


    ��But even if I don��t ask Aunt Bukin, I can still ask Aunt Annan, Uncle Banjeet, or Uncle Harvey for help!��


    Ashe felt deeply humiliated. ��It��s one thing if I��m not as good as Annan and Banjeet, but why am I even less dependable than Harvey!?��


    ��Alice is quite pretty���� Lise muttered. ��But, is Aunt Bukin really going to leave us?��


    ��To be precise, he won��t need friends like us anymore.�� Ashe shrugged. ��In the journey of life, peoplee and go. Some leave for new opportunities, some to inherit family businesses, some because of their father-inw��s support. Only the hardworking stay on the train�� I��m used to it.��


    ��But what if Aunt Bukin gets scammed?��


    ��Him? A Con Artist? Scammed?��


    ��Doesn��t Aunt Bukin always say you tricked him? He seems to fall for fool��s tricks easily.��


    ��You have a point�� Are you insulting me?��


    After flicking Lise��s forehead, Ashe pondered. ��Speaking of which, Belldate��s interest in Igor is indeed suspicious�� As his friends, we should really vet Belldate properly to ensure her sincerity!��


    Lise blinked. ��So kind-hearted?��


    ��The main reason is that while my heart wants to wish him a happy marriage, I��m not magnanimous enough to ept a friend��s sess,�� Ashe said seriously. ��If I can legitimately ruin his happiness, that would be fantastic.��

 Chapter 399: Dont Touch Me

    Chapter 399: Dont Touch Me


    Two days had passed, and Ashe hadn��t found any dirt on Belldate.


    It wasn��t because the Yvaren sisters were particrly clean. Mainly, it was because their job list suddenly featured several high-paying jobs specifically requesting them, with an astonishing hourly rate of 30 bell points. Working ten hours a day could earn them 300 bell points, and a few days of this would allow them to buy their freedom and escape from the pit.


    This wave, this wave is the alienation of people by capital. Ashe was vigorously polishing the statue while happily watching his savings grow.


    At dinner time, Ashe saw Igor dining with Harvey tonight, with no sign of the red-haired Angel Anfel. For the past couple of days, Igor had been dining with Anfel, specifically choosing a table for two. Unless Ashe was willing to pull up a baby chair beside them, it was impossible to join their couple��s table.


    Seizing the opportunity, Ashe immediately grabbed his tray and sat next to the Con Artist. ��Yo, Igor, howe you��re so down tonight, reduced to eating with Harvey?��


    The dark-skinned necromancer nced at Ashe. ����Ashe, just in time. We were just discussing you.��


    ��Discussing me about what?��


    ��Discussing your future,�� Harvey said. ��I��ll be the chief coroner of Meph, Igor will be the mayor��s secretary of Meph, and you will be an unemployed single dad on welfare, sucking your daughter��s blood. We all have bright futures ahead of us.��


    ��Although I don��t mind being on welfare, I��m not a Blood Saint, so why would I suck Lise��s blood?����Don��t you think Lise has the potential to be a child star?��


    ��Hmm���� Ashe pondered. ��Lise does have a knack for performance. ording to Gospel��s educational philosophy of teaching ording to one��s aptitude, letting her get involved in acting might not be a bad idea. But I wouldn��t suck my daughter��s blood. Any money she makes, I��d help her invest in opening a store, and when she grows up, she��d have a bunch of assets!��


    ��Oh~�� Igor nodded. ��So you��re nning to bleed Lise dry. Even the Blood Saints aren��t as ruthless as you.��


    ��I said it��s for investment and management!��


    ��Even a Cult can go bankrupt under your management. Saying your investment vision and management skills are zero would be deceiving the shareholders.��


    ��Why are you talking about making a living in Meph?�� Ashe asked. ��Shouldn��t it be Igor staying behind while the two of us leave?��


    ��How are the two of you going to leave?�� Igor asked. ��Have you gathered enough bell points to buy your freedom?��


    ��We haven��t, but don��t we have you?�� Ashe said, wrapping an arm around Igor��s shoulder affectionately. ��Once you marry Anfel and take control of the big corporation, I won��t ask you for any benefits, but you could at least get our Pact annulled, right?��


    Igor nced at Ashe��s arm on his shoulder and gently brushed it off. He replied slowly, ��First of all, once I be Belldate��s man, you two will go from being ��useful mocking followers�� to ��sheep to be sheared.�� Even if, by some miracle, I suddenly felt like doing a good deed, a Pact is a Pact. Unless one party breaches it, it can��t be annulled.��


    ��What!�� Ashe was shocked. ��I thought for sure you��d help us��damn, I couldn��t resist buying Yvaren��s merchandise today. What if Annan and the others ask about my savings!?��


    ��Serves you right,�� Harvey said. ��I managed to hold back even when Yvaren brought out a perfect human skeleton.��


    ��For problems like this, you might as well consult Lise,�� Igor suggested. ��Your IQs are closer, so she might give you some sound advice.��


    ��Wait, Igor, you��re definitely going to help your brothers out when you make it big, right?�� Ashe said. ��We��re cellmates who shared our hearts and souls!��


    ��Who was it that immediately turned on each other after the Prison Break?��


    ��We��re alsorades who��ve achieved great things together!��


    ��Do you have to brag about escaping Gerard��s sword twice?��


    ��And we��re friends who understand each other deeply!��


    ��You and he understand each other deeply?�� Igor pointed coldly at the necromancer.


    ��Anyway!�� Ashe brought the conversation back. ��Igor, my dear brother, you can��t forget to help out your little brothers!��


    ��Why should I?��


    ��Because you still owe me a favor!��


    ��Wow.�� Harvey was surprised. ��Ashe, I didn��t know you had a card like that up your sleeve!��


    ��That��s right!�� Ashe puffed out his chest and chuckled. ��Back when we were at Shattered Lake, I made Igor join my great Prison Break n. We signed a Pact, and I used a wish to force him to help me strategize, so����


    ��Please let me owe you another wish!��


    ��So, it��s you who owes Igor a wish���� Harvey remarked, rolling his eyes.


    ��I��m full. You guys take your time.�� Igorpletely ignored Ashe, picked up his tray, and prepared to leave.


    ��Igor, wait����


    p!


    Igor sharply pped away Ashe��s outstretched hand, looking down at him calmly.


    ��Don��t touch me.��


    ��That��s how it is,�� Harvey said. ��I told Alice about it, and even Alice felt embarrassed for Ashe.��


    In Ashe��s bedroom, the group from the Funeral Firm had gathered once more.


    ��Aunt Bukin treated Dad like that!�� Lise pouted indignantly. ��Dad, don��t cry. We won��t y with Aunt Bukin anymore!��


    ��Don��t move,�� Ashe said, holding Lise in front of the vanity and carefully drying her hair.


    ��Is Mr. Bukin really that impulsive?�� Banjeet pondered. ��He hasn��t even officially joined Belldate and already wants to cut ties with you and Harvey?��


    ��Sudden sess makes people lose their minds,�� Annan shrugged. ��But you could also say he��s smart. After all, you two are pure liabilities. Associating with you offers him no benefits. Instead of increasing his sunk costs with you, it��s better to short-sell your friendship early on.��


    ��Ashe, do you regret not sabotaging their date with us the night before?�� Annan turned to Ashe. ��Now you��re facing the bacsh, aren��t you?��


    Ashe didn��t look particrly upset. He said slowly, ��I just feel that Igor is acting a bit strange����


    ��What��s so strange about it?�� Annan propped her chin on her hand and smiled. ��Bukin is trying to go legit this time, so naturally, he doesn��t need old colleagues from the underworld like us. In this world, everything can betray you. Even a spirit might sneak away, let alone a Con Artist?��


    ��Is it just my imagination?�� Ashe suddenly said. ��It seems like, Annan, you don��t really care much about Igor��s defection.��


    ��Who said that? I care a lot!�� Annan replied. ��I��m even considering using my beauty to win him back.��


    ��You? Using your beauty?�� Everyone was stunned, and then Ashe immediately shook his head. ��No, absolutely not!��


    ��Why not?�� Annan blinked and looked at Ashe with a smirk.


    ��Because you��re bound to lose!��


    ��Why would I lose? I��m in the top ten of the Azura Beauty Ranking. How could I notpare to that Dwarf��s sister?��


    ��Yes, you and Anfel are equally beautiful,�� Ashe said, spreading his hands. ��But the problem is, your soul is ugly.��


    As Annan lunged at Ashe to yfully wrestle with him, the necromancer slowly spoke up, ��The Con Artist is indeed acting strangely.��


    Banjeet asked, ��Why?��


    ��The Con Artist never cuts offmunication with others. It��s not his style,�� Harvey said. ��Just like, no matter how much I dislike my enemies, I would never refuse to handle their corpses.��


    ��Could it be that Aunt Bukin feels she no longer has to tolerate you all, so she��s revealing her true nature?�� Lise spected. ��Aunt Bukin always said that talking to Uncle Harvey is like sleeping in a coffin.��


    ��Hmm��?�� Harvey asked, puzzled. ��But�� isn��t that apliment?��


    Lise looked at Ashe in the mirror and suddenly asked, ��Dad, do you think Aunt Bukin has really abandoned us?��


    ��As if my opinion would make any difference���� Ashe said while brushing and blow-drying Lise��s hair. ��If it rains, it rains. If a woman wants to marry, she marries. Everyone��s getting married, and I��m still single����


    ��So, what do you really think?�� Lise hesitated for a moment, then decided to say what the White Queen had told her to. ��I don��t think Aunt Bukin will abandon us.��


    If anyone in the Funeral Firm understood Igor the best, it wasn��t Annan or Ashe; it was the White Queen, who had once negotiated with him.


    ��Why do you think that?�� the Purple Moth next to her chuckled. ��Just because he braids your hair nicely?��


    Lise ignored the malicious aunt and looked earnestly at Ashe in the mirror. ��He values you all more than you think.��


    Ashe lowered his eyelids and said, ��I actually don��t care whether Igor abandons us or not.��


    Everyone looked at him in shock as Ashe slowly continued, ��I��ve now seen three forms of Igor. The first is the sweet-talking Con Artist, which means he��s trying to trick you into giving him something. The second is the Con Artist who deliberately puts you down, which means he��s trying to use you.��


    ��And the third form is the one I just saw, the Con Artist who distances himself from us.��


    Lise asked, ��What does that mean?��


    ��I don��t know,�� Ashe replied. ��I just see him acting on his own, forcing himself.��


    There was a moment of silence before Annan spoke up, ��So, do you still believe in him even now? Are you just going to waste your trust like that?��


    ��No.�� Ashe slowly shook his head. ��Trust should only be given to those who deserve it.��


    After everyone went back to rest, Lise still lingered in bed. Sinceing to Belldate, Lise had be increasingly clingy. Ashe figured it was probably because she was in a strange new environment and had to work every day, so it was understandable that she wanted to be pampered a bit. Since Ashe was going to enter the virtual realmter, he let her be.


    ��Can you not put your feet on my stomach tonight?��


    ��Then hug me to sleep, Dad!�� Lise said excitedly, raising her hands.


    Ashe thought it was doable. Given Lise��s surprisingly active sleeping style, she would probably roll away on her own within an hour, so he shouldn��t end up with a numb arm. He allowed her to rest her head on his arm and snuggle into his embrace. Then, he opened the Sorcerer��s Handbook to begin his ��virtual realm exploration.��


    As his consciousness connected to the virtual realm, Ashe slowly opened his eyes and found himself holding a Witch in his arms.


    Deya opened her eyes and found herself sitting on the Observer. As she looked up, she saw his face obscured by a swirling mist!


    ��Ah!��


    They both screamed and quickly separated, looking back simultaneously �C the Sword Princess was sitting in the back seat of the sports car, having witnessed their entire encounter!


    ��Sword Princess, that was just an ident when entering the Virtual Realm,�� Deya hurriedly exined. ��It really has nothing to do with me. If there��s any me, it��s the Observer��s fault����


    ��We��ve arrived in the Star Shrine area tonight, haven��t we?��


    The Sword Princess seemedpletely unconcerned with what they had been doing and calmly said, ��Don��t waste time. Quickly n the best route ording to the map to gather resources. We��re on a tight schedule tonight.��


    Ashe and Deya exchanged nces and quickly nodded. Deya cautiously sat next to the Sword Princess, but the Sword Princess seemed uninterested in her, gazing out at the Reverse Golden Rain.


    Soon, Ashe drove to a gemstone mine resource point guarded by an Overlord Raging shing Dragon and a group of Dog-headed Dragons. Although this was a formidable monster group that could kill most sorcerers, for the three of them, even without armed troops, it was an easy task to wipe them out and loot the ce.


    After a glorious victory, Ashe and the others began collecting gemstone materials that their spirits could consume. Ashe found a Sharp Gem, the perfect nourishment for his swordsmanship spirit, and approached the Sword Princess. ��Sword Princess, you����


    Smack!


    Sonya swiftly pped away Ashe��s hand as he reached for her shoulder, staring at him with wide eyes and calmly said:


    ��Don��t touch me.��

 Chapter 400: Why is the Sword Princess Angry?

    Chapter 400: Why is the Sword Princess Angry?


    ��Observer, why don��t you just apologize?��


    During a battle at arge mercury resource point, Deya stepped back to Ashe��s side and whispered to him while they had a brief respite from fighting the Overlord Fomp Dragon.


    ��Even if I wanted to apologize, I need to know what I did wrong,�� Ashe said helplessly.


    ��But if you did nothing wrong, why is she so angry?��


    With a mournful cry, the Fomp Dragon exploded, dropping three spirits and an Experience Orb. One of the spirits was a two-winged Flow spirit, perfect for recing Ashe��s one-winged Flow. The two-winged Moon Threads spirit and the light spell orb were both suitable for feeding the Sword Princess.


    As Ashe handed over the spirits and the orb, Sonya snatched them from his hand instantly, as if she didn��t want to have even a moment of physical contact with him.


    Deya watched from the side, shaking her head repeatedly with a ��See, I told you�� expression, covering her mouth in schadenfreude until the Sword Princess nced over, at which point she turned to scavenge for resources.


    Ashe was equally at a loss-he had no idea what had happened!


    Tonight, the Sword Princess was acting very strangely, treating him with extreme hostility. Even when they first met, she wasn��t this bad. But Ashe couldn��t recall doing anything to offend her. He hadn��t seeded in scolding her the night before, and they didn��t even log inst night. So why had the Sword Princess suddenly turned into the Extreme Sword Princess Overlord Lord tonight?Ashe thought about it seriously. He hadn��t drawn any special event cards for the Sword Princess recently, so it couldn��t be his fault. It had to be something in the Sword Princess��s own storyline.


    Could it be that the TV drama the Sword Princess was filming had received terrible reviews, and her character was being trashed?


    Or had she lost in apetition and been mercilessly mocked by the Anti-Sword Princess Alliance?


    Or maybe a ssmate had betrayed her, and there was an infiltrator in the Stretch Paw Club?


    It could also be due to her physiological cycle��


    There were too many possibilities for Ashe to figure out. He thought for a moment and walked over to Sonya under Deya��s reverent gaze. ��Sword Princess, I need to talk to you.��


    ��Talk,�� Sonya said, still sifting through mercury materials.


    ��Even though I don��t know why you��re in a bad mood, taking it out on others isn��t a good thing, you know.��


    Sonya looked up at him. ��Do you mean taking out my anger on those who have nothing to do with it?��


    ��Exactly.��


    ��Well, then I��m not taking out my anger.��


    Deya struggled to hold back herughter, while Ashe, looking frustrated, went to collect the Mercury Essence.


    They were currently in the Star Shrine phase, and Ashe had previously obtained the Star Shrine map from Demilo. This allowed them to explore the Time Continent as if they had aplete map. Usually, themander��s map couldn��t be saved and could only be used on the night themander was defeated. However, the virtual realm map had a memory function, turning a single-use item into an infinite-use one, allowing Ashe and his team to enjoy a well-nned sightseeing tour.


    Ashe didn��t blindly choose virtual realm locations with special mechanisms. Those ces were widely scattered and had inconsistent rewards. For example, the Amnesia Cabin wasn��t very profitable even without the Empress Heroic Soul issue. Simrly, while Ashe benefited from the Legendary Library, the Witch didn��t get anything��mainly because the Witch was too greedy.


    Inparison, scavenging resources to upgrade the Alchemy Throne was far more critical. Concentrating spellforce was always a guaranteed improvement, not to mention that scavenging resources often yielded spirits and Experience Orbs. Thus, Ashe devised a route that passed through many rare resource points, hoping to significantly upgrade the Alchemy Throne by the end of the night.


    After Ashe and his team finished scavenging the fifth resource point, he noticed on the map that a heroic soul legion was approaching.


    It was still the Star Shrine phase, and it was the Spider Tower legion��s turn to move. There was no way the Empress��smander legion could chase them down. Ashe didn��t pay much attention, driving around to the next resource point.


    However, as soon as they finished scavenging, they found the heroic soul legion right in their faces!


    Several Thousand-feathered Drakes in the distance were continuously attacking the sports car��s Refracting Wall. Ashe quickly drove away. This heroic soul legion didn��t seem to have many troops, and they didn��t engage in closebat, so the escape was rtively easy.


    But this raised a significant issue��how could the Star Shrine��s heroic soul legion precisely locate them and chase them down?


    ��Our paramour loves us too much���� Ashe gritted his teeth. ��She actually leaked our coordinates to all factions!?��


    This had to be the reason. The Empress, realizing she couldn��t kill Ashe and his team, disclosed their coordinates and location-tracking method to all factions. She might even have revealed that they possessed a Secret Incarnation, enticing other factions to join the hunt for Ashe!


    As for why the Empress would risk losing the Secret Incarnation to do this, the reason was simple-she knew she couldn��t catch them on her own!


    The Empress likely didn��t know that they barely survived crossing the Golden Flow, but just having the ability to cross it put Ashe and his team in an unbeatable position. No matter how strong the heroic soul legion, they could only look wistfully at the Golden Flow.


    If she couldn��t have it, then no one else should either!


    By releasing this information and inciting all factions to hunt Ashe and his team, the worst-case scenario would be the destruction of the Secret Incarnation. The best-case scenario would be Ashe and his team exhausting their soul power in other areas, arriving at the Spider Tower territory without the ability to cross the Golden Flow, and being easily captured by the Empress��s heroic soul.


    If she didn��t release the information, her legion would certainly never catch Ashe, who could cross the Golden Flow!


    Given thisparison, even a fool would know what to choose, let alone an Empress as malicious as her!


    Moreover, don��t forget that although the destruction of a conceptual Incarnation would cause all rted spirits to copse, the conceptual Incarnation could be regenerated given enough time. Losing the Secret Incarnation was a significant loss but still recoverable. If the Secret Incarnation were permanently taken to the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm by Ashe and his team, it would be an irreparable disaster!


    Even if they were far in the static domain, the Empress could still chase them to exhaustion!


    This tactic could be easily countered: Ashe and his team could simply avoid logging into the virtual realm except during the Spider Tower phase. However, this would drastically slow their growth, making it uncertain when they could reach the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm and giving the Empress��s heroic soul more opportunities to ambush and kill them!


    Each move was more devious than thest, and each step was more cunning!


    When Ashe exined his thoughts, the operators gasped. Deya asked, ��So, what do we do?��


    ��Develop as fast as we can!�� Ashe said. ��Our sports car is faster than a heroic soul legion. We��ll grab resources and flee before they can catch up! As long as we have a detailed map, we can always find time and space to grow, even under siege!��


    Although Sonya and Deya knew that the Observer��s n made sense, they still felt a bit surreal. Ordinary two-wing sorcerers carefully explored the Time Continent, considering an encounter with a Raging shing Dragon a significant Adventure. Yet here they were, nning to grow amid the encirclement and extermination attempts by the Time Continent��s most fearsome presence��the heroic soul legion.


    Is this really the kind of pressure a two-wing sorcerer can handle?


    Despite their doubts, Sonya and Deya felt no fear. After numerous close calls and having personally defeated a heroic soul legion, they had lost their fear of it. In fact, knowing that the heroic soul legion would chase them only fueled their determination!


    ��We��re here.��


    Ashe suddenly stopped in front of a garden surrounded by wooden railings. Inside, white mist swirled, shimmering with light, and they could even hear singing. Sonya was stunned. ��The Misty Miracle Wondend?��


    ��Hurry, grab the spirits!��


    As soon as Ashe spoke, the three sorcerers used various Movement Miracles to rush in and snatch the spirits. The Misty Miracle Wondend was a type of Miracle Wondend where the spirits hid in thick mist. Sorcerers had to rely on luck to catch them. Once a sorcerer entered the Wondend, the mist would quickly dissipate, and the spirits would vanish, requiring an entire cycle to regroup.


    ��Hey!��


    Ashe dashed here and there but didn��t catch a single spirit, feeling like a pampered young master chasing women, only to be easily dodged. Was this going to be his turn to get nothing?


    Taking a deep breath, Ashe remembered that the spirits here loved to sing. He should capture them by following the sound. Sound, sound, sound��


    It��s over here!


    Ashe leaped precisely towards the source of the sound, only to collide with someone and tumble onto the grass. Looking up, he saw the Sword Princess, who had been in a foul mood all day, sitting on top of him. He gasped, ��Sorry, it was an ident����


    ��Shh.�� Sonya, lying on top of him, covered his mouth. ��The Witch isn��t nearby, right?��


    ��(��_��)?��


    ��Hehe.�� The vige girlughed. ��How was my act today? Convincing?��


    ��What?�� The Cult Leader was taken aback. ��Your bad mood today����


    ��All an act!�� Sonya winked at Ashe. ��This way, the Witch will definitely think we��re not getting along, right?��


    Why would you do that��? Ashe didn��t need to ask; he already knew the answer.


    Just as he could see the cracks in the team, the sword Princess could see them too. While Ashe hadn��t figured out a solution, the sword Princess hade up with hers: since the Witch thought they were too close to be trusted, why not make it seem like they were on bad terms?


    Though the method seemed overly simple, it was effective because the Witch was actually a naive and inexperienced girl, perfectly fooled by their act.


    ��Phew.�� Ashe sighed with relief. ��I thought����


    ��Thought I suddenly started hating you?�� Sonya widened her eyes at Ashe, her gaze sparkling, her eyebrows arched, and the corners of her mouth curving like a fox that had snuck a treat.


    ��Yeah, I thought I must have offended you somehow.��


    ��You offend me in plenty of ways.��


    At this moment, Sonya seemed to realize their position was quite awkward. Blushing, she moved to sit beside him while Ashe also sat up, pondering. ��So, should we keep interacting like we did today?��


    ��What do you think?��


    ��I think it��s good. It makes things easier for me too����


    ��Then I��ll tell the Witch tomorrow that I��ve forgiven you and everything��s back to normal. The effect is already there anyway.��


    Ashe nced at her. Sonya tilted her head. ��You aren��t�� mad at me, are you?��


    ��Why would I be mad at you?��


    ��If it were me, I��d definitely be mad���� Sonya looked down at her fingertips, touching them together. ��Actually, I could hardly keep it up just now. I wanted to exin everything to you, but the Witch was always nearby.��


    Ashe crossed his arms, looking quite troubled. ��Restoring things to normal is fine, but if you n to attack me like you did earlier, it��s best to wait until the Witch isn��t around����


    ��I won��t do it again!��

 Chapter 401: One for Day, One for Night

    May 28, the second-floor manor of Meph, a weekday.


    ��Hey, why don��t you just join Belldate?��


    Yvaren perched on the statue of the Bewitcher Knight, bncing herself effortlessly on her tiptoes. ��Even if you leave Meph, where do you think you can run to? Thetest Family Ranking from the Gospel listed you as an enemy of nine families; the Imperial Royal Family has you on their wanted notice, and Red Hat is eager to catch you for points. Your Pact with Annan is clearly an unequal ve contract��she��s the kind of woman who never lets up. You��ll either end up as dog meat or continue being a dog, so why not be Belldate��s dog? Our benefits are great!��


    Ashe was dusting the statue��s most dust-prone crevices and swatted away her skirt that was getting in the way. ��But you guys have to work overtime!��


    ��I can give you weekends off!�� Yvaren said earnestly. ��Two full days off a month! That��s one more day than others! You can rest one day and spend the other!��


    Damn, before I time-traveled, I had two days off a month, and after I time-traveled, it��s still two days off a month. Didn��t I time travel for nothing?


    And how do Meph��s people manage to take loans with just one day off? This consumer cycle is ridiculously efficient��breaking the workce truth that ��overtime means you can��t spend money��!


    ��But can you protect me?�� Ashe asked. ��I��m a fugitive now.��


    ��Gospel Book.�� Yvaren sped her face with both hands. ��I can use Gospel points to ask the Gospel Book to erase your wanted notice.����But isn��t the wanted notice issued by the Empire?�� Ashe asked in shock. ��Are you saying the Gospel Book can directly manipte the Empire? Wait, does the Gospel actually influence society?��


    ��In the hands of ordinary people, sorcerers, and us, Gospel points hold different values,�� Yvaren exined. ��Ordinary people can only buy fleeting happiness with Gospel points; sorcerers can exchange them for powerful abilities, but in our hands, Gospel points are a Universal resource.��


    ��Gospel points are like currency. When you have enough circting currency to rival a nation��s wealth, you can influence prices, move social machinery, spark mass events, and even literally challenge nations. Gospel points can��t circte, but the Gospel Book, this Universal wishing machine, simplifies your ��spending avenues�� to the utmost. For instance, if you want to buy a chocte ball, you need to know where to buy it, then purchase it through a medium, and wait for it to arrive. But the Gospel Book����


    Yvaren summoned the Gospel Book, and suddenly, a bag of cookie chocte balls appeared in her left hand. ��It��s expensive, but it skips all the steps�� want one?��


    ��Give me one unconditionally to try,�� Ashe replied smoothly.


    Yvaren red at him and shoved a chocte ball into his mouth. ��Though it surely costs a lot, Belldate can indeed erase your Imperial Wanted Notice.��


    ��If it��s so powerful, why doesn��t Red Hat just use Gospel points to catch me?��


    ��The Gospel Book can change the weather, bring the dead back to life, and twist reality, but it can��t fix the ever-changing human heart or directly ess personal privacy,�� Yvaren said, tossing the chocte ball in her hand. ��For example, these chocte balls mighte from a store, and the Gospel Book just transported them here and paid for them, rather than making a chef instantly prepare them.��


    ��Changing a wanted notice is simr. The Gospel Book won��t erase people��s desire to catch you, but it will block the Imperial Wanted Notice, cancel the bounty on you, and filter out any news about you from various media channels, effectively canceling your wanted status.��


    ��So, from this perspective, the Yisuo Royal Family doesn��t really care that much about you,�� Yvaren said, munching on a chocte ball. ��If they were truly ruthless, they would ster your wanted notice everywhere you could see, offering a bounty rich enough to twist the minds of the public. If the temptation were great enough, I couldn��t suppress the greed of Meph��s people either.��


    ��In my view, the wanted notice against you is just the Empire��s way of appeasing the major factions, showing they are taking a stance, but they��re not paying much attention to you. After all, the night the Art Ranking came out, I, as the mayor of Meph, demanded Nabistin to capture you, this arrogant criminal in the apocalypse. And there were at least a dozen other leaders whoined along with me.��


    Ashe had a sh of insight. ��So, you can maneuver in reality, get other leaders to stop disliking me, and the Empire will cancel the wanted notice?��


    ��Indeed,�� Yvaren said. ��As long as you sign this paper����


    ��A marriage registration?��


    ��It��s a promissory note. The amount isn��t thatrge, just a mere billion gold coins. As for coteral, I only need 90% of your mental capacity, which you don��t use much anyway.��


    ��No way!�� Ashe shook his head. ��Why does Igor get such good treatment while I have to mortgage 90% of my brain?��


    ��Hmm���� Yvaren pondered. ��If you want Igor��s treatment, it��s negotiable����


    ��Huh?�� Ashe was taken aback. ��You want to marry me too?��


    Suddenly, the blue-haired girl pulled a gold coin from her bag and slipped it into Ashe��s cor, right over his chest. ��This ispensation.�� Then she delivered a sharp karate chop to his head.


    ��How dare you humiliate me like this���� Ashe gritted his teeth, pocketing the gold coin.


    ��Besides the fact that I wouldn��t fancy your unrefined, miracle-unscreened genes, the patriarch of the Belldate family is lifelong unmarried,�� Yvaren snorted. ��But I understand. Facing someone like me, the top beauty in all of Meph, it��s inevitable for you to have such delusions.��


    ��At least it��s not that. This way, the kids won��t me me for height issues in the future����


    Seeing Yvaren conjure nearly a ton of gold coins with a loud thud on the ground, Ashe defiantly raised his head. ��Can I at least wear a helmet?��


    ��Want to be tough and wear a helmet? Do you think such good fortune exists?��


    ��Blue-haired Goblin�� I wasn��t even talking about you!��


    After Yvaren contentedly got off Ashe, whoy in a ravaged state, he stubbornly collected the gold coins into his arms.


    Since most of the spirits have been reced with two-wings and Ashe has been fighting so frequently in the virtual realm, the spirits working full-time are starving rapidly. His gold coins are barely enough to feed them, so he had to trick some money out of Yvaren, the big capitalist, to solve his immediate crisis.


    Ashe could have asked Annan for money, but Annan insists on him showing proof of spirit ownership and allocates funds ording to the number of spirits. If Ashe frequently asks for money, Annan would question why the spirits are being used so often, suspect if he��s delivering goods somewhere, or if he��s secretly starting his own business. Ashe feels that, sooner orter, this would expose the unusual activity in virtual realm exploration, so he avoids asking Annan for money.


    ��So, you still refuse to join Belldate?�� Yvaren asked. ��I can offer you a very lenient Pact.��


    ��You��ve been harassing me for days,�� Ashe replied. ��Actually, isn��t Harvey a better choice than me? He��s set to receive your ancestor��s heritage and has even dug up your family��s ancestral grave.��


    ��His troubles are too great. I never intended to recruit him from the start,�� Yvaren shrugged. ��As for the Necromancy Angelic Heritage�� that��s the angel��s heritage, not the Family��s. Harvey was right in the video; Belldate has no qualifications to inherit the angelic heritage. I just need to maintain the Dominance Sect and Belldate.��


    ��I only need you and Igor,�� Yvaren looked at him. ��Name your price. I refuse to believe Belldate can��t satisfy your appetite!��


    ��As long as the treatment is worse than Igor��s, it��s a no-go,�� Ashe said, wetting a rag to continue wiping the statue. Despite being ravaged by the mistress just now, as a lowly butler, he still had to work.


    ��If you absolutely refuse to budge���� Yvaren hesitated for a moment. ��Fine, I can agree to your terms!��


    ��Didn��t you say you couldn��t marry? Oh, I get it, we can only be paramours?��


    ��Nonsense! I just thought you��d actually be a good match for Anfel.��


    Ashe was shocked. ��Wait, but isn��t Anfel currently in a passionate rtionship with Igor? You want me to steal Igor��s paramour?��


    ��Anfel doesn��t have to have just one lover,�� Yvaren said, giving Ashe a thorough look. ��If you think about it, you and Igorplement each other perfectly. One is smart, the other is a fool. One is aloof, the other is cheerful. One is refined, the other is rough. One for the day, one for the night. Marrying both of you would be ideal.��


    ��Who��s for the day and who��s for the night��never mind,�� Ashe sighed. ��Can��t you offer me terms that don��t include delivering a wife?��


    ��You��re just trying to figure out Igor��s Pact with us,�� Yvaren scoffed lightly. ��I knew you were stalling me.��


    ��Who says so? If your terms are good enough, I��d definitely consider it!��


    ��If you��re so worried about Igor and don��t want him to stay with Belldate, why didn��t you interrupt their date that night?�� Yvaren bent down to look at Ashe as he worked. ��My original n was for you guys to sessfully cause a scene, making Igor resent you and fully join us. Did you think the remote control was so easy to throw away?��


    ��You owe Harvey an apology for that!��


    Ashe retorted, ��I just think Igor is smarter than me. If he thinks it��s okay, why should I act on my own? And besides����


    ��What if you guys are sincere about him?��


    Yvaren coaxed, ��Exactly. If even someone as smart as Igor is willing to join us, why won��t you follow suit?��


    Ashe carried his bucket to another statue, wrung out the cloth, and continued working.


    ��Because he didn��t invite me.��


    The Cult Leader shrugged. ��Maybe he thinks I��ll have a brighter future following Miss Annan?��

 Chapter 402: A Con Artist in the Gospel is Truly Rare

    Chapter 402: A Con Artist in the Gospel is Truly Rare


    Ashe didn��t notice the sudden, strange expression on Yvaren��s face, but it quickly vanished. ��So, unless Igor personally persuades you, you won��t join us?��


    ��If you insist on marrying me���� Ashe mused, ��I might consider it����


    ��Damn!�� Yvaren snorted, ��By the way, you guys have almost saved enough for your ransom, right?��


    ��Yeah, thanks to the high-paying jobs we��ve had these past few days, all thanks to Belldate��s blessings.�� Ashe raised an eyebrow. ��Are you trying to con me into spending money again? No way. The ten small videos I bought from youst time are enough tost me a year. You might not know, but watching small videos is very physically exhausting, unlike watching big videos. You can��t tempt me any further in this regard.��


    ��How about this: if you don��t buy my trashy goods, I��ll send those ten small videos and the news of your purchase to Annan.��


    Ashe broke out in a sweat, trying to stay calm. ��I��ll delete them right now and tell Annan that I��ve seen the error of my ways and turned over a new leaf!��


    With that, he summoned the Gospel Book, his finger hovering over it but not pressing down. Yvaren blinked. ��Go ahead, delete them.��


    ��I don��t think I can be threatened by a swindler like you,�� Ashe dered righteously. ��At worst, I��ll just face a beating from Annan and her sisters!��


    ����Don��t worry, I wouldn��t ruin my reputation over someone like you.�� Yvaren shook her head and turned to leave. ��Once you��ve saved enough for the ransom, get lost. You��ve offended me, and since you neither want to die nor be a dog, no shop in Meph will sell you anything.����Unless it��s to attend Igor��s wedding, don��t expect me to step into Meph ever again!��


    Ashe snorted, wringing out the cloth fiercely. As he continued cleaning the statue, he noticed Yvaren standing on the statue again, seemingly out of nowhere.


    ��Are you really unwilling to join Belldate?��


    This time, Yvaren��s voicecked its usual arrogance. Her tone was calm, even a bit pleading.


    Ashe remained silent for a moment, not answering, and continued his work.


    Ms. Belldate jumped down and left, disappearing around the corner of the hallway.


    The Cult Leader nced at her elongated shadow and recalled Annan��s words:


    ��When we��ve saved enough for the ransom, that��s when Belldate will make her move against us.��


    ��They��re almost there. It��s time to act.��


    In an office filled with portraits, Igor sat across from Yvaren, calmly voicing his suggestion.


    The blue-haired woman, who had been silent for a long time, finally spoke: ��Is there really no way to recruit them?��


    ��Annan and Banjeet��s goal is the Divine Sovereign��s Wish. You can��t offer them what they want. As for Harvey, even if you��re willing to risk offending the entire Gospel to protect him, he has a strong self-destructive tendency. He won��t stay for any benefit, unless you can promise him a more spectacr death��on that front, Belldate��s allure pales inparison to Funeral.��


    ��Lise is closely tied to Ashe. If you can��t recruit Ashe, Lise won��t stay either.��


    ��Then make Ashe stay,�� Yvaren suggested. ��He��ll definitely listen to you����


    ��In our original agreement, I had only one condition: either Ashe or I stay, not both,�� the Con Artist said. ��I don��t care about the others, but if Ashe stays, then I leave. Our agreement is void.��


    ��Why?�� Yvaren was puzzled. ��I thought you had some grudge against him�� But he trusts you so much, why won��t you stay with him?��


    ��Precisely because he trusts me, I can��t stay with him.��


    Igor ran his fingers through his hair. ��Do you know what my profession was under the Blood Moon? I was a social engineer, a Con Artist. This profession might be rare in the Gospel�� A Con Artist who specializes in deceiving others, yet is trusted��don��t you think that��s funny?��


    ��What��s even funnier is that I truly wouldn��t deceive him.��


    ��Despite the many ws in Blood Moon��s teachings, there are some valuable insights,�� the Con Artist said. ����All rtionships that cause you concern will contaminate you,�� ��All rtionships that make you feel wronged will harm you,�� ��All rtionships that change you will dominate you���� Personality freedom is the foundation of everything.��


    ��If I stay with Ashe, I will no longer be myself. To put it more directly-��


    ��Getting too close to the sun will melt the wax virtual wings.��


    The Con Artist gazed at Yvaren. ��So you understand, it wasn��t Belldate who chose me; I chose Belldate. I was blinded by the night, bought the wrong ticket, boarded the wrong train, and went on a wrong journey.��


    ��But just because I bought the ticket doesn��t mean I have to stay until the end. It��s time for me to get off. And I need you to crash this train into pieces, leaving no room for second thoughts.��


    Yvaren sighed. ��Isn��t there any other way?��


    ��Isn��t this your original n?�� Igor said. ��The pact only requires you to protect the Funeral Firm. It doesn��t allow you to direct, guide, or indirectly leak information in any way. But there��s a loophole: the members of the Funeral Firm can leak information voluntarily. And as long as the leakes from their side, the pact bes null and void, freeing you from any responsibility toward the Funeral Firm.��


    ��You never intended to keep the pact from the beginning. You just wanted to temporarily pacify Annan and the others, then buy off a traitor with your wealth and use the pact��s restrictions to trap them in Belldate, ensuring no fish that escaped the.��


    ��Why the sudden sentimentality?�� The Con Artist couldn��t help butugh. ��Blood Saint weeping with false kindness?��


    ����Annan and I were partners once. If they were willing to join Belldate, I wouldn��t have gone this far,�� Yvaren said calmly. ��By the way, have you spoken to Annan?��


    ��No.��


    Just then, there was a knock on the door. Igor stood up. ��Anfel is here. Excuse me.��


    ��Don��t use your devious tricks on my sister.��


    ��Not while you��re alive,�� the Con Artist said. ��Tonight, I��ll contact Senhaeser, the Funeral Firm, the Red Hat, and other forces to inform them about Ashe and the others. Then����


    ��The nightmare that has haunted me for days will finally end.��


    Watching Igor��s departing figure, the blue-haired girl fell into deep thought. When she heard her sisterughing and chatting with Igor, she summoned the Gospel Book and used her points to ask:


    ��Did Igor Bukin lie in his statements just now? If so, which ones were lies?��


    Gospel Book: ��There were no lies.��


    Yvaren pondered for a moment, then suddenly realized:


    ��A Con Artist is indeed very rare in the Gospel����


    Vamora, in the office of the Senhaeser patriarch.


    ��Nona, notify the other heraldry patriarchs to dispatch elite battle sorcerers and form a raid team for an expedition to Meph.��


    The female Elf beside him nodded coldly. ��Shall I lead the team?��


    ��No.��


    Qenna, sitting in her chair, overlooked the city of white mist, her fingers lightly brushing her lips.


    ��Ashe Senhaeser is the key to our family��s continuity. I will personally lead the team to bring them back.��

 Chapter 403: I Dare to Insult the Mayor, Do You Dare to Insult the Patriarch?

    Chapter 403: I Dare to Insult the Mayor, Do You Dare to Insult the Patriarch?


    On May 30th, at 9:30 PM, during the rush hour, the streets of Meph were bustling with traffic, as bright as day.


    Sangjerte, the orc sorcerer and captain of the Meph Red Hat squad, was rubbing his face.


    This was his bad habit. Whenever he got nervous, he would rub his face until his nose and eyes were out of shape. It might be something he learned from the tricolor cat at home when he was a child. The kes from his palms and cheeks seemed to take away his inner unease.


    He nced at the Gospel Book. The third ranking list hadn��t been updated yet. He didn��t know if it would be updated today or tomorrow-since May has 31 days, the Future Ranking could be updated on either day.


    If the Future Ranking wanted to dy the update, it might even wait until 11:59 PM on the 31st.


    ��Captain,�� a Red Hat behind him reminded. Sangjerte looked up to see a Red Hat elf, who was just as tall as he was, walking to the front.


    ��Follow my lead, and you��ll share the credit; act on your own, and you��ll get a coffin,�� the elf threatened.


    The local tyrant Red Hats of Meph were being threatened like this, but the orc just rubbed his nose and nodded repeatedly. ��The overallmander of this operation is Captain Senhaeser. If Captain Senhaeser doesn��t trust me, she can send someone to supervise my team.��


    ��Fine,�� Qenna said bluntly, sending a Red Hat from Vamora over. She had the Meph Red Hats transfer the control authority of the bncer boots. Noticing his subordinates watching him, Sangjerte nodded, signaling them toply.The bncer boots were standard equipment for the Red Hats, used for flying and maneuvering. It took at least a year of training to use them, and they were much better than the virtual wings. Because of this, nearly every Red Hat was an expert in aerialbat at the level of a swift. If the bncer boots were forcibly shut down, the Red Hats would lose 70% of theirbat power at best, and at worst, they would crash and need rescue.


    With control over their bncer boots, Qenna could turn them back into primitive beings who could only travel on foot at any time. But no one felt displeased about it, not even Sangjerte. After all, he was just performing his duty, while the people in front of him were here for revenge.


    Senhaeser, Vastino, Mercury, Rnd, Kaesrei�� Even though they might not have the meticulous and absolute control over Meph like Belldate does, in their own cities, they are still unchallenged authorities, spanning the political,mercial, and military realms, and sharing the world with the Yisuo Royal Family as the Gospel Family!


    However, despite such a powerful family, they will all eventually be turned into a horde of zombies by necromancers in the future. They have plenty of reasons to root out any threats. Sangjerte, being just a tax-funded alchemist, has no need to offend them.


    Although Sangjerte is a two-wings sorcerer, hees from a proletarian family. In fact, Meph has only three social sses: negative assets, no assets, and family assets. His orc father and goblin mother left him no inheritance. When they were over forty and couldn��t work anymore, they went on a trip, while Sangjerte, after wandering until he was twenty, sessfully went from having nothing to being heavily in debt, bing a proud member of the negative assets ss. For the next forty years, he would have to work like a horse for Belldate.


    That��s right, having no assets in Meph is already considered middle ss, enough to surpass 99% of the citizens. Generally, only retirees in their fifties and sixties who have paid off their debts qualify for this ss.


    As for who the family assets ss is, there��s no need to borate. Mentioning them would vitebor contracts and incur mental distress fees. Although Sangjerte lived in a house built by Belldate, ate food produced by Belldate, used machines made by Belldate, and even bought spirits from Belldate��s tform, it didn��t stop him from cursing Belldate in his heart. He had to curse a few times every morning before work to feel energized.


    Thinking of this, Sangjerte looked at the Vamora Red Hat with a bit more sympathy: I dare to curse the mayor Belldate in my heart, can you dare to curse your patriarch in your heart?


    And those other sorcerers who rushed over eagerly, for the so-called future of their families, had to hurry to Meph overnight, as if they were puppets controlled by their families.


    Seeing them, the sense of superiority of the people of Meph naturally surged-


    Free! Dom!


    If the keyword for Vamora is happiness, then for Meph, it is freedom. They are fully aware of the consequences of borrowing and that their cognitive abilities might be shared, but based on research and observation, they prefer a life of early pleasure followed byter hardship over one of early hardship followed byter pleasure.


    More importantly, all these choices are made by themselves; no one forces them. If you don��t like it, you can move to another city and start over. You can even live a normal life in Meph if you can resist the temptation of advance spending��no overtime required.


    Compared to these outsiders whose lives are predetermined by the Gospel, Family, and environment from birth, the people of Meph believe they possess true freedom.


    Sangjerte only joined this operation because he received information about a fugitive; he did it purely out of professionalism. He had no interest in the points ranking or the future of the Gospel��he would be dead in fifty years anyway. Even if the Gospel was invaded by the de Fish Dragon, it wouldn��t matter to him. He was more concerned about which canteen to go to for lunch tomorrow.


    However, it was clear that the others didn��t think the same way. They even began arguing about how to distribute the spoils. Sangjerte rubbed his nose. As a two-wings sorcerer, he had no voice here��there were already five Sanctuary sorcerers present, two of whom were Red Hat captains: ��Weeping Sand Red Cap�� Cleos and ��Soul Rending Red Cap�� Qenna.


    As for why a mere two-wings sorcerer like him could be a Red Hat captain in a major city, it was simply because Mephcked high-levelbat power, and��


    Unlike all other cities, Meph��s true defensive measures had nothing to do with the Red Hats��whether for external or internal threats.


    Soon, the outsiders finally discussed their distribution strategy. In simple terms: everyone relied on their own skills, but no killing.


    It seemed that everyone, except for Cleos��s Red Hats, wanted to capture the fugitive alive.


    When they looked over, Sangjerte knew it was time to get to work. He rubbed his cheeks and took a deep breath: ��Please follow me to freight elevator number 23.��


    The informant who provided the intelligence also mentioned a crucial point besides the location of Ashe and hispanions: Belldate, ording to the Pact, would protect the Funeral Firm. Therefore, once the pursuers were exposed in Belldate��s sight, whether she wished to or not, she would inevitably use various means to divert them. Hence, to capture Ashe and Harvey, they had to act swiftly and covertly.


    To secretly infiltrate Belldate��s manor, they had to take freight elevator number 23 to reach the city on the second level, where the surveince equipment was temporarily down��the Gospel Book provided them with a top-secret operation map.


    Using their employee cards, dozens of elite sorcerers took the freight elevator to the aerial warehouse. ording to the informant, Ashe and Harvey were both working overtime in the Hell Zone tonight, so their n was simple: raid Belldate, capture the targets, and return home for interrogation.


    As for the authenticity of the information, it didn��t need consideration: the Gospel Book would judge for them; they just needed to listen to the Gospel.


    The journey was uneventful; it seemed the servants were all resting. The warehouse was empty. Leading the way, Sangjerte carefully avoided the boxesbeled ��valuable items,�� but the faint sense of unease in his heart grew stronger.


    When he received the informant��s intelligence yesterday, Sangjerte suspected that the informant might be one of Belldate��s people. Although the intelligence imed that Belldate couldn��t disclose the secrets of the Funeral Firm in any way, there had to be some loopholes in the Pact.


    But there was a significant question: why would Belldate do this?


    Couldn��t she afford to support the Funeral Firm?


    Impossible��Meph wasted enough food daily to feed ten thousand Funeral Firms.


    Did the Funeral Firm offend Belldate, and she wanted to use others to do her dirty work?


    While possible, could Belldate not handle a group of out-of-town sorcerers herself?


    Was Belldate nning to betray the Funeral Firm from the start?


    Unlikely��if betrayal was her first option, why sign the protection Pact with the Funeral Firm in the first ce?


    Most importantly�� Sangjerte nced at the unified team behind him. Each sorcerer was among the elite, with even Sanctuary sorcerers leading them.


    There were too many outsiders.


    Belldate had so many channels to betray the Funeral Firm, so why did she choose the most dangerous one? Didn��t she know that leaking information to the various Families would draw everyone to Meph? Didn��t she know that Harvey was a source of cmity pointed out by all? Didn��t she know about her Family��s Angelic Heritage��


    Ding!


    The group, who had set up alerts, immediately opened the Gospel Book and received thetest information from the informant:


    ��Members of the Funeral Firm, after inquiring with the Gospel Book, have learned that there are outsiders invading Belldate��s manor and are preparing to flee.��


    After verifying the information, Qenna immediately said, ��We don��t have time; we must act now!��


    Sangjerte nodded, ��Then let��s pick up the pace����


    ��Don��t walk!�� A sorcerer from Kaesrei shook his head and directly flew up��


    Boom!


    The ceiling was instantly pierced by various Miracles. Dozens of sorcerers sted through the second-floor ceiling of the warehouse, then the first-floor ceiling, until they saw the night sky of Meph! The ceiling here was reinforced by Miracles, which dispersed external force across all areas, making it very difficult to punch a hole with a normal Miracle, but once broken, the entireyer shattered!


    Countless goods fell to the second floor of the warehouse, breaking into pieces. Sangjerte and the others stood dumbfounded, watching the outsiders destroy Belldate��s private property. From the appearance, these goods were sealed precious spirits, extremely valuable hard currency in the Kingdom of the Gospel.


    How dare they��


    Didn��t they know��


    At this moment, Sangjerte rubbed his nose vigorously.


    He finally understood that Belldate��s target wasn��t the Funeral Firm at all, but��


    ��Two city Red Hats, three firms, and eight Families, all are here.��


    Igor closed the Gospel Book, ��Congrattions, Yvaren. From now on, you are the most powerful patriarch in Belldate��s history.��


    The blue-haired girl stood on a footstool, gazing at the outsiders flying around like flies in the distance, and asked, ��How do you know?��


    ��The Dominance Sect of your Family is far too destructive to the potential of sorcerers,�� Igor said. ��Sorcerers, though varied and bizarre, must have strong convictions to be powerful. But in the extreme hedonism of Meph, there is no foundation for the growth of conviction, because all convictions require ��dyed gratification,�� whereas Meph emphasizes ��seize the moment.����


    ��Even Vamora has the ��Family�� as a belief to sustain them, but what does Meph have? People who don��t need a future won��t have one.��


    ��As for recruiting high-level sorcerers�� just like you can��t even recruit Harvey, other Sanctuary sorcerers cannot be tempted by Belldate. Every Sanctuary sorcerer has their own ideals and pursuits, which cannot be bound by the debauchery of Belldate.��


    ��If you want to quickly expand your power, the only way is to�� forcibly dominate the strong ones from other Families!��


    The Con Artist couldn��t help butugh, ��A very crude scam, something even children wouldn��t fall for under the Blood Moon.��


    ��But it��s very effective, isn��t it?�� Yvaren shrugged.


    ��Making them destroy arge amount of Belldate��s property, so that the Gospel judges they owe Belldate, thus triggering the Dominance Miracle�� but with the dual support of the Virtual Realm and the Gospel, this is indeed an absurdly effective strategy,�� Igor said. ��But I��m curious, why didn��t Belldate use this method before?��


    ��Why would she need to use this method before?�� Yvaren retorted. ��If the future could continue to be peaceful, I wouldn��t use such an annoying method. Speaking of which, it��s all your fault.��


    ��You��re afraid of a future disaster foretold by the Gospel�� no,�� Igor shook his head. ��Is it because of your Family��s Angelic Heritage?��


    ��Both, but regardless, Belldate would be crushed by Harvey like a bug in the future,�� Yvaren said. ��The other Families have gone mad. To continue their lineage and secure their future, they won��t miss any lifeline�� Since Harvey can be the master of the Blood Corpse King under the Blood Moon, why can��t they?��


    ��Belldate, whocks high-levelbat power, possesses the Angelic Heritage as a legacy�� From the day she emerged on the Family Ranking, I knew my enemies were other forces.��


    ��To protect myself, I must chop off their hands before they can reach out.��


    Igor couldn��t help but nod repeatedly. ��The day we appeared before you, you had already envisioned tonight��s scenario�� It was precisely because of the bait provided by Ashe and Harvey that they invaded Belldate without hesitation and stormed into your backyard!��


    ��You even prepared an escape route. Throughout the entire process, you ��protected�� us unknowingly, while they invaded Belldate��s manor and destroyed your private property. Even in the worst-case scenario, it would be considered self-defense, and the Gospel would deem you meless. As long as the other Families do not n to openly defy the Gospel, they cannot punish you��they can��t even punish your sorcerers because you have already dominated them.��


    ��As for harboring fugitives�� the Gospel never acknowledged Ashe as a fugitive; this is merely an internal affair of the Empire. You only need to pay a littlepensation. But invading someone��s home and destroying private property is a crime recognized by the Gospel.��


    ��But I have one question��what if they repay their debt?��


    ��They can��t repay it,�� Yvaren said. ��The losses are all high-level spirits. Unless they return the exact same spirits, they will always owe Belldate. Even if they return higher-level spirits, it won��t work�� This is the Gospel��s biggest trap in debt rtionships.��


    Igor couldn��t help but apud.


    For sorcerers, it��s not about having higher-level or rarer spirits. For example, giving a two-wings sorcerer a three-wings spirit is pointless, and giving a fire sorcerer a Water Spirit is even more troublesome. The Gospel, considering this, set the debt rtionship to ��must return the original item,�� but it became Belldate��s most terrifying trump card.


    The Divine Sovereign Gospel, the Miracle of Domination, the Virtual Realm Pact�� Yvaren��s scheme seemed like child��s y to him, but because she could perfectly utilize her resources, she sessfully dominated dozens of elite sorcerers!


    Even Igor had to admire Yvaren��s audacity��she was scheming against the Red Hat and the major Families! Even though she had Belldate��s support, if anything went wrong, it would mean offending half of the Gospel for nothing. Unlike Annan, who could just walk away, Yvaren had to endure the wrath of countless people alongside Belldate!


    Now, with five Sanctuary sorcerers and dozens of elite sorcerers, they were still unaware that half of their minds had already been taken over. Even if Yvaren didn��t control them directly, just implying thoughts could build a solid moat for Belldate!


    ��But the n went so smoothly, all thanks to you,�� Yvaren nced back at Igor. ��Annan and the others were the base of the puzzle, and you were the final piece.��


    ��Such top-tier con artistry is rare, even under the peak of the Blood Moon,�� Igor said. ��I��m curious��where did you learn such skills?��


    ����This wasn��t my scheme,�� Yvaren replied. ��But you, Annan really never approached you?��


    ��Really never.��


    Yvaren summoned the Gospel Book to check and nodded slightly. ��That��s strange, she��s not usually so quiet����


    ��You should clean up the mess,�� Igor said. ��Belldate has to wrap up this show. By the way, are you nning to hide your domination over them or reveal it to intimidate the other Families?��


    ��No need to overthink it,�� Yvaren said. ��I��ll just go down and scold them, then they��ll leave with Ashe and the others. Tomorrow, they��ll publicly apologize to Belldate, offerpensation, and seek an alliance.��


    ��But for now, I need to ��protect�� Annan as per the Pact, at least fend off most of them, or the Virtual Realm will judge me as neglecting my duties.�� Yvaren jumped onto the balcony. ��Thank you, Igor. Without you, the expert, I couldn��t have deceived the other Families.��


    ��I didn��t deceive them; the Gospel did,�� Igor said. ��Trust can��t be ced in the cold Divine Intervention.��


    Yvaren didn��t respond, leaping off the balcony.


    The Con Artist returned to Yvaren��s seat and summoned his own Gospel Book.


    ��Trust can only be ced in those who deserve it.��

 Chapter 404: Has Your Boss Ever Risked Their Life for You?

    Chapter 404: Has Your Boss Ever Risked Their Life for You?


    ��I had no idea that working overtime could involve battle rounds.��


    As dozens of wild mages suddenly emerged from a fissure in the distance, Ashe and Harvey, who were workingte, dashed into the nearby forest. Ashe quickly donned his Twisting Mask to avoid detection, while Harvey��s skin rapidly cracked, resembling that of a corpse-effectively rendering most conventional Miracle scouting useless against them.


    ��So, if we get caught, the Pact gets terminated just like Annan said?��


    ��Exactly. The Pact stiptes that Belldate has to protect us, and if we get caught, it can��t be fulfilled, so no ransom needs to be paid.��


    ��Tsk,�� Harvey grumbled. ��I should have spent those 950 bell points sooner����


    ��If we can��t gather the ransom in a day, we��ll remain Yvaren��s property for that day. She��d be more than happy to have us work for free forever,�� Ashe replied. ��This malicious ransom setup is just like that. We��ll gain some experience now, so next time when we break ties with Annan, we��ll be prepared.��


    ��Huh?�� Harvey was surprised. ��I thought you and Annan were getting along so welltely. I figured I��d need to prepare a coffin for you if we ever sought revenge.��


    ��No matter how well we get along, she won��tpromise on the Divine Sovereign��s Wish,�� Ashe said, feeling a bit troubled. ��Lise is the same way����


    ��So why bother getting close to them in the first ce?�� Harvey asked. ��In the end, it alles down to a final battle, with blood marking the conclusion. The more feelings you have now, the more pain you��ll feel in the future.��Ashe paused, staring nkly at the dark-skinned necromancer. ��Is that why you����


    ��Exactly. If you only have feelings for the dead like I do, you won��t face such inner turmoil,�� Harvey replied. ��Come on, join me as ackey under Haagen-Dazs!��


    ��No thanks. I prefer things hot.��


    Boom!


    Suddenly, the shadows of the surrounding trees twisted and contorted grotesquely. Both men immediately used their Miracles to rush forward��Ashe��s Rush and Harvey��s transformation into a mist spirit��narrowly escaping the crushing shadows.


    However, as the entire forest area was cleared, their figures were fully exposed under the night sky!


    ��They��re here!��


    Shadow Sect�� sorcerers from the Mercury Family!


    ��Hey, weren��t there supposed to be only Red Hats��?�� Ashe nced back. ��I��m seeing a lot of people without hats�� and Mercury isn��t even Meph��s family!��


    ��Annan guessed wrong,�� Harvey said coldly. ��Yvaren never intended to show mercy.��


    Days ago, Annan had analyzed Yvaren��s next moves. She concluded that once they gathered the ransom to leave Meph, Yvaren, unable to keep them, would try to distance herself from them.


    Sheltering Ashe and Harvey was equivalent to offending most of the Gospel. The two of them were practically ��universal enemy triggers.�� If Yvaren could make them her subordinates, it would be fine; if not, she would try to minimize the negative impact��such as ��voluntarily�� handing them over.


    Even though the Pact prevented Yvaren from leaking information, Belldate had plenty of ways to work around it. The most likely scenario was that Meph��s Red Hats woulde after them, causing the Pact to fail. Yvaren wouldn��t have to protect them, and they could escape smoothly, treating it as a fleeting encounter, with nothing but the days of unpaidbor as a consequence.


    At that time, Lise had asked what would happen if Yvaren decided to go all out against them, but Annan was confident in shaking her head.


    ��Yvaren may be a bit cunning, but she��s not inherently bad. I have a decent rtionship with her; she wouldn��t be so ruthless.��


    ��Did Annan underestimate the blue-haired one��s cunning or overestimate her own charm����


    ��Watch out!��


    Two legs can��t outrun those who can fly. Several sorcerers quickly caught up. Ashe summoned his Love Sword to prepare for a Miracle sh when suddenly, there was a loud explosion beside him, and half the night sky turned crimson!


    Hell erupted!


    Lava from the adjacent hell zone suddenly erupted, spewing streams of magma hundreds of meters high, like a meteor shower crashing down on the flying sorcerers. While most sorcerers skillfully dodged the fiery rain, a dozen were drenched in hotva!


    ��Wow,�� Ashe��s eyes lit up. ��Let��s run along the edge of the special area!��


    ��Ashe.��


    A familiar voice reached his ears effortlessly. Ashe shuddered and turned to see two elegant and graceful Red Hat elves flying in the night sky.


    ��Qenna, Nona?�� Ashe was stunned. ��Why are you here too?��


    ��Of course, we��re here to catch you,�� Qenna smiled. ��Aren��t you our master on the Family Ranking? Why are you running?��


    Hearing this, Ashe wished the Four Pirs would give him six more legs so he could outrun Harvey. Qenna and Nona simultaneously drew their handguns and aimed at Ashe��


    Mist.


    White mist from Belldate��s replica of the Sea of Knowledge area suddenly surged in, enveloping the flying sorcerers. The pursuers didn��t hesitate; unable to aim from a distance, they dove down to catch their target directly.


    However, when Qenna dove, she found herself above the mist, which had nearly swallowed the entire manor below.


    ��Space Inversion Trap?�� Qenna chuckled. ��ying with space in front of a Sanctuary sorcerer?��


    This time, she expanded her Sanctuary and dove down, quickly piercing through the mist and reaching the ground. In the distance, she saw Ashe and Harvey running into the Golden Flow area. Besides her, the other four Sanctuary sorcerers also emerged from the mist.


    The pursuers exchanged nces, knowing it was time to divide the spoils.


    The five Sanctuary sorcerers used Movement Miracles, almost instantly closing the gap behind Ashe and Harvey, employing various restraining techniques to capture their prey��


    Pop!


    Ashe vanished with a popping sound, and Harvey copsed into a pile of flesh.


    A Substitute and a corpse!


    At the same time, the Sanctuary sorcerers realized they were in yet another scenic spot��Belldate��s replica of the Golden Flow area!


    As the golden droplets floated up, the sorcerers found their spellforce bing incredibly heavy, turning their vast spellforce into a burden that immobilized them!


    ��Angelic Heritage, Belldate���� Except for ��Weeping Sand Red Cap�� Cleos, the four family sorcerers exchanged cold nces. ��Interesting����


    Meanwhile, Ashe and Harvey sessfully regrouped with the others.


    Lise ran straight into Ashe��s arms, clinging to him like an octopus.


    Banjeet pulled a coffin out of his suitcase, and Harvey clung to it like an octopus.


    Afterforting Lise, Ashe asked, ��How do we get out of here?��


    ��We��ll retrace their path. There must be a car parked nearby,�� Annan said, her face extremely grim. ��Even though Yvaren is holding them off for us, we don��t have much time-��


    ��You have no time left.��


    With the words came the sound of bullets whistling through the air.


    Three dull thuds, and Banjeet, Harvey, and Ashe fell instantly. Only Lise, whom Ashe hugged, and Annan, shielded by Banjeet, were unscathed.


    ��Lise, check their injuries!�� Annan quickly transformed her earring into an Assault Gun and fired, but the opponent used a single bullet to shatter the wind barrier, deflecting all her shots!


    The attacker was already close. With a sudden whistle, high-heeled boots shed like razors. The Purple Moth dodged instinctively, raising her Assault Gun to counter!


    Dodge, elbow strike, and then seamlessly pushing Annan against a nearby tree, the attacker aimed the gun at her waist!


    ��Come with me quietly, and I��ll ensure you all live,�� Qenna said calmly. ��I��ll even help you get married.��


    ��No way!��

 Chapter 405: Frostfire

    Chapter 405: Frostfire


    The forest is burning, hell is flowing, the Sea of Knowledge is boiling, and the Golden Flow is drying up�� The fortress garden, built with the endless wealth of Belldate, has turned into ackluster firework.


    Yvaren leaned against the railing of the front garden, gazing at the standoff below. The moment Qenna captured Annan, the Pact with the Funeral Firm waspletely dissolved��she was a shelter, not a protector.


    The Funeral Firm no longer needed to gather 6000 bell points, and she had no responsibilities towards it.


    A very profitable deal indeed. The seeds of domination were silently nted in five Sanctuary sorcerers and sixty-three elite sorcerers, and all she paid was millions worth of assets and a few newly made friends.


    She actually liked them.


    Banjeet was an ageless youth, mature and steady under his youthful appearance, with azure hair simr to Yvaren��s, making her feel a sense of kinship when with him;


    Lise was as beautiful as Yvaren herself had been in her childhood, with white hair as smooth as silk and cheeks as tender as eggs, so cute that one couldn��t resist the urge to take a bite;


    Harvey, though odd in character and dark inplexion, exuded a whirlpool-like aura of destruction, as if he would drag everything around him into madness. She really wanted to observe his end up close;


    Ashe��Yvaren couldn��t help but smile at the thought of him. It was hard to describe him with a fewbels; she only knew that being with him was interesting. If Harvey was a vortex of destruction, Ashe was the opposite. She wondered why they could stay together�� If possible, Yvaren really wanted to keep him around.And then, there was Annan.


    They were once sisters who talked heart-to-heart in the night, confidants who shared secrets, even rivals in love�� In Yvaren��s otherwise unremarkable life, the adventures with Annan were one of the few bright spots.


    ��I��m going to lose friends,�� Yvaren shrugged, gazing at the distant standoff with a calm heart.


    When you dominate the will of millions, you won��t be swayed by the joys and sorrows of one.


    Belldate dominates all, Belldate possesses nothing.


    Miracle: sh Me!


    Ashe��s phantom flickered and shattered, sessfully initiating the sh Me Miracle. However, he continued to liezily on thewn, not even moving a fingertip.


    Even though he had forcefully triggered the sh Me Miracle through spirit resonance, the disruptions in spellforce, nerve blockades, and sensory suppression remained unaffected. It wasn��t that the Miracle was ineffective; it was Ashe who wascking. A Sanctuary Miracle doesn��t necessarily crush a golden sorcerer. If Ashe had understood the details of this binding Miracle, he could have used the sh Me Miracle to purify it.


    The essence of the sh Me Miracle is to sh away foreign objects from the body. It��s usually practical, as most foreign objects are visible or directly perceptible.


    But this time was different. Lady Qenna��s bullets were fierce and covert. Ashe didn��t even know what was suppressing him. The sh Me Miracle, therefore, aimlessly shed at his fingernail as a perfunctory gesture.


    If the sh Me Miracle incorporated other spirits capable of examining the body and soul, its purification strength would be even greater�� Ashe suddenly realized the direction for improving the sh Me Miracle, but it was meaningless at this moment.


    Bang!


    A Sanctuary barrier appeared around Qenna, blocking a frost bullet.


    She looked with surprise at the young butler, who stood up covered in frost and snow, and uncertainly said, ��Able to break my soul-locking bullet��s suppression�� could it be the Miracle ��Frozen Age��?��


    ��As expected of Lady Qenna, you saw through it as the ��Frozen Age�� Miracle at a nce.��


    The young butler nodded as the frost and snow fell from his body.


    ��But it��s slightly different from the original. ��Frozen Age�� fixes the body��s time by consuming the soul��s lifespan, thus generating frost spellforce. However, my soul can no longer afford such waste. Fortunately, my body is already in this form, so I made a slight modification����


    ��Now this Miracle should be called ��Melt��.��


    As the frost and snow melted away, Banjeet��s voice changed from the crisp sound of a young boy to the maic tone of a young man. A tall, handsome, blue-haired butler appeared before everyone, holding dual frost pistols, aiming at his former master.


    ��During the melting period, I possess Sanctuary-levelbat power,�� Banjeet said. ��Madam, please release the youngdy.��


    ��Your appearance has matured, and so has your arrogance?�� Qennaughed. ��Someone who hasn��t even been to the Distant Sky Domain doesn��t understand what Sanctuary truly is�� But, we��ve known each other for years. This is the first time I��ve seen you so determined, Banjeet, so I��ll give you a chance.��


    ��If you can take Annan from me, I��ll let you all go.��


    Bang, Bang, Bang!


    Frost blossomed everywhere as bullets unleashed icy rivers, swirling around the matriarch like a whirlpool.


    Qenna grabbed Annan by the nape of her neck like a kitten. Even while carrying someone, she easily evaded and scattered Banjeet��s attacks.


    Bullets flew wildly, Miracles overflowed, and Ashe, on the edge of the battlefield, was nearly caught in the crossfire of this golden sorcerer versus Sanctuary sorcerer sh. Suddenly, he felt himself being dragged backward. Even though he couldn��t see who it was, the small hands and the grunting effort could only belong to one person.


    Ashe focused all his attention on his mouth.


    sh Me!


    sh Me!


    sh Me!


    After three consecutive uses of the sh Me Miracle, Ashe finally managed to slightly loosen the restrictions on his tongue and throat, whispering, ��Run����


    ��Mm-hmm!�� Lise nodded vigorously. ��Lise will get Dad out of here soon!��


    ��You run����


    ��I��m going, Dad, stop pushing!��


    ��Put me down���� Ashe said softly. ��Then run to the main house, let Yvaren protect you�� You��ve never appeared at the Weaving Festival, as long as you��re not there, no one will catch you����


    ��Yvaren is a bad woman, how could I go to her!?��


    ��Yvaren�� Annan said�� she��s not inherently bad. At least, without a conflict of interest, she won��t mind taking care of you�� you��re so adorable����


    Lise sniffled. ��Lise is so adorable, how could you bear to abandon Lise?��


    ��We�� will pretend to be captured by Qenna�� and thene back for you soon����


    ��Then Lise will get captured too!��


    ��What if? I saw other Family members, and Red Hats�� what if we are forced apart�� I don��t want to worry about you kicking off your nket in a strange cell at night����


    ��I won��t���� Lise desperately dragged Ashe to a more concealed spot. ��I won��t be separated from Dad!��


    ��When I first met you, you were much smarter and decisive than now,�� Ashe��s voice seemed to carry a hint of a smile. ��The first night we met, you came to me and said�� you wanted to pretend to be my daughter.��


    ��It��s all Dad��s fault!�� Lise wiped the snot and tears from her face. ��Being with you has made Lise dumber!��


    ��Is that so�� well, there��s nothing to be done then.�� Ashe sighed softly. ��Put me down.��


    ��I won��t����


    ��I mean, you don��t have to run anymore�� we can��t escape.��


    Just then, a wraith suddenly appeared, picking up the necromancer. An eerie, floatingughter echoed through the scene. ��I thought I��de back empty-handed, but it turns out Senhaeser thoughtfully left us some prey. Well then, Mercury will dly ept this gift����


    ��How dare you!?��


    Though Qenna and Banjeet immediately redirected their fire, the wraith was incredibly fast, lifting Harvey and instantly appearing above Ashe.


    At this moment, Lise decisively stood in front of Ashe, her small frame as resolute as a fortress.


    But Ashe wasn��t looking at Lise. Instead, he locked eyes with the necromancer held by Mercury. For some reason, the Cult Leader suddenly recalled a scene from the Family Ranking, his lips moved slightly, and he softly said:


    ��Harvey, save me.��


    ng!


    The coffin, ignored by everyone until now, suddenly shot out seven chains, swiftly binding the wraith and dragging it into the coffin! At the same time, a figure leaped out of the coffin, snatching the necromancer from the wraith��s grasp!


    Despite being a Sanctuary sorcerer, the wraith shook off the chains mid-air, revealing the figure of a young man in a pitch-ck robe, staring at Harvey with astonishment.


    Harvey, now held by Alice, had turned into a mist, enveloping the elegantly dressed girl like armor, until the two merged into one, life and death intertwined!


    Fwoosh!


    A ghostly green me ignited the mist around Alice, turning her into a torch. But the me did not harm Alice in the slightest; instead, the nearby grass quickly withered and decayed!


    ��Maintaining good rtionships really pays off,�� Alice suddenly turned to look at Ashe, her mouth producing Harvey��s voice. ��You see, Lise only saved you.��


    Ashe��s eyes widened, and Lise was also stunned. ��You�� Uncle Harvey����


    ��No wonder you��re the madman who can inherit the Angelic Heritage���� Mercury, the young man, said. ��Is this necromantic Miracle something you created from the mist spirit? How defiant, how sinister, to merge the living with the dead!��


    Before he finished speaking, he transformed back into a wraith, rushing over with the intent to capture the necromancer in one strike!


    Alice-Harvey disyed a stiff smile.


    ��This body, though cold with Frostfire, still yearns for the moment of its demise.��


    Boom!


    With a roar, the eerie fire exploded within, the vast spellforce burning away all life around them. The necromancer��s barrier, centered on the coffin, actually withstood an attack from a Sanctuary sorcerer!


    ��Tonight is a good night for someone to die,�� Harvey said. ��Maybe it��s finally my turn.��

 Chapter 406: Ranking of Schemes

    When Harvey confronted Mercury, Qenna, Annan, and Banjeet quickly agreed to a ceasefire.


    Annan wasn��t oblivious to the situation. With no chance of escape and a horde of hunters eyeing them hungrily, the prey had little choice but to seek protection from one hunter in exchange for being spared the ughter.


    Even though Annan detested Qenna, she had to admit that bing Qenna��s ything was far better than bing a prisoner of the Red Hat or any other family.


    ��Harvey, Ashe, we surrender to Senhaeser!�� Annan shouted loudly as soon as Qenna released her. ��We are now Senhaeser��s spoils of war!��


    ��Hey, hey, does that mean we came here for nothing?��


    ��We can��t give everything to Senhaeser. At least Ashe Heath must face justice.��


    ��Archibald Harvey can��t be handed over to Senhaeser either!��


    Three other Sanctuary sorcerers finally broke free from the constraints of the ��High Imitation Golden Flow Area�� and hurried to the scene to join the spoils meeting. They were the Sanctuary sorcerer from the Kaesrei family, Azura��s ��Weeping Sand Red Cap�� Cleos, and the Happy Family Firm��s ��Red Cicada Dame�� Ina.


    Qenna stood with Funeral and the others, waving her hand to release the soul-binding bullets that had restrained the group-leaving only a weak and helpless Ashe whimpering.The remaining four Sanctuary sorcerers formed a semicircle around the group, all focusing pressure on Qenna.


    ��If you hadn��t caused such a ruckus earlier, we wouldn��t have this problem now,�� Qenna said coldly.


    ��That��s nonsense!�� Annan retorted bluntly. ��Even if I had surrendered the moment I saw you, do you really think they would just let you take us away? If you had let us go earlier, none of this would have happened!��


    Annan saw through everything clearly. This pursuit was a joint operation, which inevitably meant there would be disputes over the distribution of spoils, and these conflicts would be irreconcble.


    Although the Sanctuary sorcerers vaguely knew that Ashe Harvey was a ranked individual who had deceived Gospel, and that Gospel��s evaluation of them would certainly be wed, their ranking might be fake. However, the prophecy of an apocalypse within fifty years from Gospel was undoubtedly real!


    At this time, anyone who could reach the future was extremely precious. Even if Ashe Harvey was a counterfeit, seizing him would still be a gain! Otherwise, why would they travel all the way to Meph to invade a private residence? Out of sheer altruism?


    Not to mention that Harvey had a high chance of obtaining the Angelic Heritage in the future, potentially leading the top ten necromancy families and bing the undisputed king in the Gospel��s apocalypse. Who wouldn��t want to take his ce?


    Ashe wasn��t as valuable, but Cleos wanted to use him to improve her ranking, and other families surely wanted this ��ordinary male protagonist�� who appeared on two ranking lists in a row. So, Ashe��s value, though smaller, was only slightly less than that of ��Necromancy King�� Harvey.


    Annan couldn��t escape either. She was the number one on the Art Ranking and the head of the Firm. Everyone knew that Ashe and Harvey��s inclusion on the ranking lists was closely tied to her.


    Thus, when Annan closed her right eye and opened her left eye��s ��Cmity Vision,�� she saw herself, Ashe, and Harvey shrouded in ck mist, clearly marked by cmity.


    Sure enough, the young man Mercury spoke up, ��Since Senhaeser was the first to capture them, Senhaeser can choose one of the three important targets, and all other secondary targets also go to Senhaeser. How about that?��


    Kaesrei added, ��Whoever chooses Archibald Harvey must share his necromancy results-not just with us, but with other families listed on the Family Ranking as well.��


    Cleos hesitated for a moment, then shook her head. ��No, Annan is neither a fugitive nor a future offender. You have no right to decide Annan��s fate. Since she chose to surrender to Senhaeser, she belongs to Senhaeser. As for harboring charges, Captain Qenna will handle it herself. Captain Qenna, you only need to choose between Heath and Harvey.��


    The ��Red Cicada Dame�� Ina gave Cleos a deep look but nodded in agreement. ��I align with the Weeping Sand Red Cap.��


    Kaesrei and Mercury��s faces immediately turned grim.


    Although Annan wasn��t as crucial as the other two, everyone had deduced from the first two ranking lists that Annan was absolutely a central figure in deceiving Gospel.


    If Annan and the other outsiders continued to stay together, the Weaving Festival would undoubtedly be disrupted by them.


    If it were any other time, they might be able to tolerate this. But the next fifty years were crucial for the survival of Gospel, and the Weaving Festival was the most important channel for observation. They absolutely couldn��t allow Annan to continue causing disruptions!


    More importantly, if Senhaeser got her hands on the luxuriousbination of Annan and any outsider, the advantage would be enormous. It would be equivalent to obtaining a ticket to the future!


    Retreat, and the family wouldst a millennium; advance, and they could establish a dynasty!


    In an apocalypse where resources were scarce, Senhaeser��s expansion would undoubtedly squeeze the survival space of other families!


    Kaesrei and Mercury had many schemes running through their minds, but with Cleos and Ina subtly siding with Senhaeser, they were left with no choice.


    There were only five Sanctuary sorcerers here. Other families either didn��t have any Sanctuary sorcerers or couldn��t spare them. Once a 3:2 situation formed, they could only watch as Senhaeser imed a sweeping victory.


    Qenna looked back, ncing at Ashe, who was protecting Lise, then at the necromancer burning with green mes, and finally exchanged a look with the young Banjeet and her daughter Annan.


    ��It seems I have only one choice,�� Qenna said coldly, adjusting the brim of her Red Hat.


    A disheveled Annan raised her eyebrows. ��That��s right�� free attack!��


    As Annan��s words fell, Qenna, Banjeet, Harvey, and even Ashe simultaneouslyunched an attack on the four Sanctuary sorcerers!


    Frost flew, death locks hooked souls, bullets exploded, and sword light shed!


    Miracle: Frost de and Gun Dance!


    Miracle: Immortal Coffin on a Cold Rainy Night!


    Miracle: Soul Burst Bullet!


    Miracle: Rage Sword!


    ��Senhaeser, what do you mean by this?!�� Kaesrei shouted angrily as he unfolded his Sanctuary to defend.


    ��I mean��I want it all,�� Qenna said arrogantly. ��All the people are mine. You want to share? Dream on!��


    Cleos��s expression turned serious. ��Qenna, you��re going too far!��


    Mercuryughed angrily. ��We have four Sanctuary sorcerers here, and you����


    ��I have money!��


    In the midst of the battle, Qenna summoned the Gospel Book. Instantly, everyone in the Funeral group felt an endless surge of energy. A ��Gospel Field�� that mitigated damage appeared around them, and their bodies were blessed with ��Grace of the Cat,�� ��Strength of the Bull,�� ��Sharpness of the Eagle,�� and over a dozen other direct blessings. Theirbat power was pushed to the limit by the points from the Gospel Book!


    In contrast, Mercury and his group were inflicted with over a dozen negative states such as ��Soreness and Fatigue,�� ��telet Dissolution,�� and ��Mosquito Buzz Illusion.�� Although these conditions were negligible to Sanctuary sorcerers, Qenna��svish spending was enough to make them reconsider fighting. They were not merely facing a Sanctuary sorcerer but a patriarch wielding the assets of an entire Family!


    However, Sanctuary sorcerers aren��t fools. They weren��t interested in a direct sh with Qenna and instead tried to capture members of the Funeral group to turn the tide.


    But after several rounds, they failed to capture anyone and were instead suppressed!


    Four Sanctuary sorcerers were being held down by one Sanctuary sorcerer and a few two-wing sorcerers!


    Whoosh!


    Mercury suddenly turned into a wraith and retreated from the front line.


    He nced at his hands; his right hand was almost decayed to the bone, while his left hand was deeply frostbitten. Even with the protection of a Sanctuary Miracle, he couldn��t fend off the Miracles of the two-wing sorcerers!


    Among the Funeral group, Annan and Ashe��sbat power was negligible. The real threats to the Sanctuary sorcerers were Banjeet and Harvey!


    ��Frost spellforce, Necromancy spellforce����


    Mercury quickly healed his hands and smiled bitterly. ��Are two-wing sorcerers this fierce nowadays����


    On the other side, Ashe noticed that he and Annan were barely contributing and couldn��t help but ask, ��Why are Banjeet and Harvey so much stronger than us?��


    Annan, holding her Assault Gun and trying to interfere with the Sanctuary sorcerers, quickly replied during a reload, ��Their Miracles are enhanced by spellforce.��


    ��Spellforce?��


    ��Through certain Miracles, spellforce can be further processed to be more suitable for a spirit��s ��appetite.�� For example, frost spellforce can enhance the effect of frost Miracles by 100%, even causing more terrifying negative damage.��


    ��There��s such a thing!?��


    ��But such Miracles oftene at an extremely high cost,�� Annan nced at him, ��and the learning threshold is very high. Ordinary sorcerers can��t master them.��


    It was precisely because Qenna discovered that both Harvey and Banjeet had the potential to challenge Sanctuary sorcerers that she decisively initiated the battle. Otherwise, no matter how wealthy she was, she couldn��t possibly withstand thebined assault of four Sanctuary sorcerers.


    Boom!


    While they were talking, Qenna seized the opportunity andnded a fatal shot. The Soul Burst Bullet instantly prated Ina��s Sanctuary, sending the olddy flying over ten meters!


    However, Ina immediately used the Family Ranking reward to enter ��Mech-spirit�� mode to suppress her injuries but was already unable to continue fighting.


    Already struggling, and now one person short, Mercury and his group had no hesitation in retreating from the battlefield. Qenna exhaled lightly and opened the Gospel Book. ��I��ll summon a hovercar with the Gospel Book, and then we will-��


    ��Yvaren, you��re ruthless,�� Annan suddenly muttered.


    Qenna was slightly taken aback and turned to see the white mist dissipating above the courtyard. The sorcerers trapped by the Space Inversion Trap were now free. The elite sorcerers looked down to see the Sanctuary sorcerers fighting each other,pletely unaware of what had transpired.


    ��Senhaeser believes that Ashe Heath, Archibald Harvey, Annan Dn, and all other targets should be under her control,�� Mercury said calmly. ��We are having a friendly discussion.��


    Everyone immediately understood that this was a tense and exciting post-battle distribution meeting. The Six Heraldry nsmen instantly flew behind Qenna, while the rest of the Red Hats, Firm members, and family sorcerers stood on Mercury��s side.


    The situation instantly reversed. Qenna��s side had fewer than ten people, while Mercury��s side had over forty. Although elite two-wing sorcerers couldn��t intervene in the Sanctuary battle, if Mercury could hold off Qenna, the elite sorcerer squads could seize the opportunity to attack Ashe and other captives, directly snatching the spoils.


    Qenna also realized this, but instead of softening, she became even more resolute. ��Mercury, Cleos, do you want them to get involved in a Sanctuary battle? They will die.��


    Due to the presence of Sanctuary sorcerers, the intensity of the Miracles used in their battles is extremely high. If a two-wings sorcerer gets caught in the crossfire, they will die a gruesome death. The only reason Ashe and the others managed to avoid harm earlier was because the Sanctuary sorcerers deliberately held back, not intending to kill them.


    The situation reached a stalemate. Although Mercury��s side had the advantage, it wasn��t overwhelming enough to crush their opponents. Qenna, Harvey, and Banjeet, the three Sanctuarybatants, were not to be underestimated. If a battle broke out, the casualties would be so severe that all factions would feel the pain.


    As everyone pondered their next move, Banjeet suddenly let out a bitterugh. Thick white smoke emerged from his body, and he began to shrink rapidly, melting until he became a small boy of about five years old.


    The young boy looked at his oversized butler attire in confusion, waved his sleeve, and nced around at the unfamiliar adults. His innocent face showed fear and panic, and tears quickly welled up in his eyes, on the verge of spilling over.


    ��Don��t cry, don��t cry,e with sister for some chocte,�� Lise decisively stepped forward and led the little Banjeet away. Seeing that his newpanion was only a little older than himself, the boy managed to hold back his tears and followed her to the rear.


    Ashe stared nkly at Annan and pointed at the small Banjeet. Annan nodded helplessly.


    At that moment, Alice Harvey suddenly coughed heavily. The green mes on his body gradually extinguished, and a cloud of white mist left Alice��s body, entering a coffin. Alice immediately closed the coffin lid.


    Ashe: ��You����


    ��I��m Alice,�� Alice (Harvey) said cheerfully. ��Harvey needs to rest in the coffin, so I��ll take over from here!��


    Ashe was at a loss, unsure if this was Harvey��s split personality, a necromancer��s twisted sense of humor, or a side effect of a previous Miracle. Regardless, the oue was the same-


    They had just lost two Sanctuarybatants.


    Meanwhile, the ��Red Cicada Dame�� Ina had recovered her basicbat strength and rejoined the Sanctuary sorcerers.


    The atmosphere grew tense.


    Mercury coughed twice, and Qenna rubbed her forehead.


    In terms of numbers andbat power, Senhaeser and her group were now at a significant disadvantage. No matter how strong Qenna was, there was no way she could lead the Funeral members away while being besieged by four Sanctuary sorcerers and dozens of elite sorcerers.


    Exhausted, Annan walked over to Ashe, wrapped her arm around his, and leaned on him, as if she would copse without support.


    Everyone had done their best.


    Initially, they should have been captured by Qenna, but Banjeet stepped in;


    Later, Mercury should have captured Ashe, but Harvey intervened;


    Those were unexpected turns, but now reality had set in.


    ��We��ll have to hand over Harvey,�� Annan whispered in Ashe��s ear. ��Don��t say anything. I��ll talk to Qenna.��


    ��Miss, don��t you have�� a backup n?�� Ashe asked.


    Annan nced at him and nodded. ��I do, but it might already be ineffective.��


    ��And in this situation, ordinary ns won��t work. We can only hope for a Miracle.��


    At that moment, everyone��s Gospel Book popped open, revealing a gleaming bookmark inside.


    ��Now of all times?�� Ashe and the others felt a surge of hope.


    ��Why now?�� Mercury��s heart sank.


    ��Why at this moment?�� Yvaren felt uneasy.


    Although this was no time to be distracted, no one could resist the lure of the future. With various thoughts in mind, everyone opened their bookmarks and looked at the title of the third ranking list-


    ��Ranking of Schemes.��

 Chapter 407: Finally Able to Reap the Enemys Rewards

    Virtual Realm, Time Continent, Spider Tower Area


    It was not currently Spider Tower��s turn, and the entire area was shrouded in a ck-and-white static domain. Except for the knowledge creatures that continued to reproduce and thrive, the three castles surrounded by multipleyers of defenses were operating day and night. The knowledge creatures, loaded with ��job types,�� transformed into humans, sat at their desks, buried in writing, and answered inquiries from reality. As each query was resolved, countless amounts of soul power converged at the core structure of the castle: the spiderweb.


    At this moment, Danzel, loaded with a job type, was wearing a short vest and skirt with high heels, sitting cross-legged on her former throne, boredly flipping through the various questions emerging from the books.


    Commanders could umte merit through work. Since idleness was not an option, mostmanders would take on job types during the static domain period. The work at Spider Tower was very simple; answering questions did not require the staff to think. In fact, when they read the questions, the answers would pop directly into their minds, and they would just write them down.


    It seemed a bit superfluous, but it was necessary-no matter how great the Divine Intervention, it was merely a set of unchanging ��rules.�� It had to rely on the variable ��intellect�� to provide precise feedback tailored to individuals.


    However,manders with some emotional range, like Danzel, found this work too boring. She walked to the window and looked up at the spiderweb that covered the entire gray sky.


    To say it was a spiderweb was somewhat misleading: it had no visible web holes. Or rather, the holes were so few and far between that they were almost invisible. From below, it looked like a white curtain covering the sky.


    But Danzel, upon careful inspection, could still see that there were seven web holes in the central area. When these seven holes were all filled, the Great Appointment of the Six Nations would officially begin.


    However, thest ten holes that needed to be filled would almost always break open on their own. If they were lucky and only one broke, Spider Tower could secure a top position. If unlucky, and seven or eight broke, the Great Appointment of the Six Nations would only rank them at the bottom.Let��s hope the repairs hold this time��


    Just then, Danzel noticed the spiderweb tremble slightly, and countless threads began to weave, gradually filling the seventh hole. She looked down at the book in her hand and turned to the page of the ranking list��Spider Towermanders could actually obtain real-world intelligence, but almost no one was interested, and even Danzel, who had regained her emotions, felt the same way.


    Compared to the decades in reality, Danzel had fought for hundreds of years in the Time Continent to retrieve her soul fragments. The vast length and depth of thetterpletely diluted the former, making it impossible for her to feel any attachment to reality.


    This might also be one of the reasons why the Six Nations War and themanders�� legions took ce in the Time Continent: the lifespan of two-wings sorcerers was too short. The Divine Sovereign did not need to pay special attention; just the long passage of time was enough to integrate themanders with the Time Continent.


    ��The Ranking of Schemes���� Danzel showed some interest. This was a title she liked. For the previous two holes, she hadn��t even bothered to nce at them, feeling it was a waste of time.


    ��Ranking of Schemes No. 10: Danzel��s Crown Descension Ritual��


    ��Synopsis: The ancestor of the Dn Family, Danzel Dn, possesses the authority to gaze into infinite futures. To obtain this authority, on April 10, 1678, Annan decided to initiate the crown descension ritual at the cost of countless treasures of gold and silver.��


    ��Mastermind: Annan Dn��


    ����Huh?�� Danzel showed a hint of confusion on her face:


    ��I have�� descendants?��


    At the Belldate Manor, when the tenth ce on the Ranking of Schemes was revealed, everyone looked at the tattered Purple Moth beaten by her mother, their eyes filled with various desires.


    The Dn Family�� the authority to gaze into infinite futures�� the crown descension ritual!


    But when Qenna grasped the handle of her gun, everyone chose to give Senhaeser some face and continued watching the ranking list.


    ����Miss, this time we will truly offend all factions.����


    The scene showed Banjeet, still the gentle blue-haired young butler, while Annan had be much more mature. She wore an off-shoulder purple gown, looking increasingly dazzling, morous, and alluring. They seemed to be standing on the second floor of a banquet hall, overlooking the guests below.


    ��It��s okay,�� Annan shrugged, ��Soon, there will only be a couple of small factions left here. If we offend them, so be it. I��ve gone through a lot to trick them intoing here; we can��t back down now.��


    ��You��d better worry about whether the ritual provided by the Rust Crow will seed. Danzel is our best hope; only she can lead us to conquer the future!��


    The audience held their breath, barely daring to blink. Although they didn��t know who Danzel Dn was, they understood what summoning an ancestor in a ritual meant.


    Resurrection of the dead!


    Revival!


    This was a great domain that only the Divine Sovereign could touch!


    Anything rted to resurrection was essentially considered a ��Divine Intervention��!


    Moreover, if someone as down-and-out as Annan could perform such a ritual, how could the great families not be able to?


    Even knowing the details of this ��crown descension ritual�� would be an invaluable treasure!


    As if aware of everyone��s thoughts, the Gospel Book maliciously skipped this part of the plot and jumped straight to the end of the ritual!


    Annan stood in the empty hall, with all the guests lying on the ground, their fate uncertain. Banjeet looked at his mistress and, for some reason, took a step back.


    ��What are you afraid of, Banjeet?�� Annan turned to look at the butler, slightly raising her proud neck. Her stunning appearance did nothing to diminish her overwhelming aura.


    ����Danzel?�� Banjeet��s gaze was intensely focused, like a needle piercing the unknown creature before him. ��What happened to Miss Annan!?��


    ��She��s asleep. Didn��t she say goodnight to you?��


    ��Hand over the miss!�� Banjeet gripped his handgun tightly but did not draw it.


    ��That won��t do,�� Danzel said leisurely. ��Since you pulled me back from the Virtual Realm, let me enjoy the pleasures of being alive. In the meantime, you��ll take care of my daily needs. Don��t worry, I��ll fulfill your requests��if I feel like it.��


    ��Now then, Banjeet, my firstmand.��


    ��Kill everyone here.��


    As a ssh of blood hit the screen, the footage of the tenth ce on the Ranking of Schemes ended.


    In the next second, everyone turned to look at Annan, especially Mercury, whose presence felt as piercing as a needle, locking onto the figure of the Purple Moth.


    ��There was someone in that banquet hall who is my brother,�� he said in a deep voice.


    ��Oh,�� Qenna said calmly, ��Then he��s lucky to have escaped bing a Shadow Spirit.��


    Mercury suddenly deted. Qenna was right; his family��s future would inevitably be turned into Shadow Spirits by Harvey. Compared to that, dying a quick death at Annan��s hands might be a better fate.


    Moreover, it was clear that Annan��s Scheme took ce before the Family Ranking��after all, in the Family Ranking, Mercury��s family had already be Necromancers.


    But this didn��t stop him from ring fiercely at Annan and saying coldly, ��She must hand over the crown descension ritual, Senhaeser. You can��t keep this to yourself!��


    Before Qenna could respond, Annan shook her head immediately. ��That ritual is something I obtain in the future. I don��t know anything about it right now!��


    ��Who is the Rust Crow?�� Cleos suddenly asked. ��In the footage, you clearly said the ritual was given to you by him.��


    Annan continued to shake her head. ��I don��t know this person yet. I don��t know.��


    ��You don��t know this, you don��t know that���� Kaesrei said, ��But you must know about the Dn Family��s heritage, right? What is the authority to gaze into infinite futures?��


    Faced with the aggressive sorcerers from the Sanctuary, Annan bowed her head directly, avoiding their gaze, and pulled on Ashe��s sleeve, hiding behind him. Ashe didn��t back down at all, pulling her openly to hide behind his aunt, Nona, like a child seeking a parent��s protection.


    Nona wasn��t surprised by their closeness. Annan��s only rtive since childhood had been her, and her only friend was Banjeet. As for Ashe�� Nona nced at her sister, who winked mischievously, as if to say, ��Enjoy.��


    Nona ignored her sister, turning to Annan and Ashe and whispering, ��Hold onto my waist. If necessary, I��ll fly you both out of here.��


    Ashe blinked and nced at Nona��s slender waist. Just as he was about to reach out, Annan pped his hand away.


    At this moment, Lise seemed to sense that her dad was about to be taken away by another woman, so she quickly pulled little Banjeet over. Little Banjeet was only wearing an oversized shirt and tripped halfway, falling t on his face. The blue-haired boy didn��t cry but bit his lip and pouted with tears in his eyes.


    Ashe took Lise��s hand and couldn��t help but say, ��Howe you��ve been on the list more times than we have, youngdy? Are you also from out of town?��


    Annan crouched down to wipe little Banjeet��s tears and said irritably, ��Do you think I want this? It��s not even the Beauty Ranking; it��s the Ranking of Schemes. Now my reputation is as bad as yours!��


    It was true.


    ording to the synopsis of the ranking list, Annan��s Scheme this time was supposed to be just for the sake of money. But after the ritual summoned ��Danzel�� and she possessed Annan, the crazed ��Danzel�� ughtered all the guests present. Both the money and the lives were gone, and the powerful families featured in the footage would surely hate Annan to death.


    More importantly, unlike Ashe and Harvey, Annan was a bona fide local, making the Weaving Festival��s prophecy about her trustworthy!


    Additionally, since no outsiders appeared in the footage, it ruled out the possibility of the prophecy being contaminated. This meant that unless something unexpected happened, the plot of ��Annan holds the crown descension ritual to seize wealth and massacre everyone�� was bound to ur!


    Even if Qenna could protect Annan now, other families would undoubtedly send countless assassins to Vamora to kill the Purple Moth!


    Moreover, whether Qenna could protect Annan was now uncertain. Annan��s two appearances on the Weaving Festival highlighted Gospel��s significant interest in her. Coupled with the crown descension ritual and the Dn Family heritage, her overall value in everyone��s eyes had already subtly surpassed Ashe, second only to Harvey!


    ��Annan Dn has received the reward ��Guilty Crown.����


    ��Guilty Crown: When you wear this crown, your crimes will not be recorded by Gospel, and those who die because of you will be considered victims of natural disasters.��


    Annan stared nkly at the crown in her hand, feeling despised by Gospel��if she were tomit a crime, would it even vite Criminal Law!?


    Ashe leaned in and asked, ��Empress Annan, should we test it by killing someone?��


    ��No need to go that far. As long as it��s a crime, hurting someone is fine too.�� Annan nced at him. ��Stick out your tongue and let me bite it to see if Gospel Book would consider it intentional harm.��


    Lise looked enviously at the gem-encrusted crown. Annan noticed her gaze and asked, ��Lise, do you want it?��


    ��Uh-huh!��


    ��Then what should you say?��


    ��Thank you, Aunt Annan!��


    Annan elbowed Ashe in the waist. Ashe quickly shook his head��it wasn��t him who taught her that!


    If it were me, she��d be calling you ��Old Hag Annan!��


    ��That��s not right, Lise. Think again?��


    Lise hesitated, her gaze darting between Annan and Ashe for a long while, but ultimately, she couldn��t resist the crown��s allure. ��Thank you�� Mama Annan?��


    ��Still wrong.�� Annan sighed but ced the crown on Lise��s head anyway.


    Little Banjeet tilted his head, then suddenly jumped up happily. ��Empress Lise!��


    Just then, the Gospel Book emitted a bright light, updating another ranking.


    ��Ranking of Schemes �C No. 9: Kross��s Wisdom Reawakening Ritual��


    ��Synopsis: Kross Kaesrei, an ancestor of the Kaesrei Family, was a legendary sorcerer who specialized in the Fate Sect. To obtain the wisdom of their ancestor, on April 10, 1678, Zuvendas decided to murder another Sanctuary sorcerer from the Kaesrei Family and 100 ordinary Kaesrei nsmen as sacrificial offerings to perform the Wisdom Reawakening Ritual.��


    ��Mastermind: Zuvendas Kaesrei��


    Suddenly, the sorcerer team across from them scattered, leaving only one Sanctuary sorcerer standing there dumbfounded. Ashe asked in surprise, ��What��s going on?��


    ��He is Zuvendas Kaesrei,�� Nona replied.


    Is this the joy of checking the ranking list together��finally getting to see the gossip about our enemy!

 Chapter 408: Schemes Upon Schemes

    ��To restore the glory of our ancestors, I will sacrifice everything!��


    ��Since you will all be necromantic beings eventually, why not serve as my resources?��


    ��Don��t me me. Your deaths are not meaningless. If you want to me someone, me the Rust Crow. It was the Rust Crow who sold me this ritual. I will avenge you by killing the Rust Crow.��


    Watching the footage of the crazed Zuvendas mercilessly attacking his kin, everyone stepped further away from him. ��Weeping Sand Red Cap�� Cleos even slightly raised her gun, seemingly ready to aim at any moment.


    Like Annan, Zuvendas�� ritual was skipped by the Gospel, directly jumping to the celebration after the ritual��spletion.


    Zuvendas sat in a bizarre blood-marked magic circle, surrounded by the corpses of Kaesrei nsmen: they had been cut in half at the waist by Zuvendas. Their upper bodies outside the circle had their hands sped in prayer, while their lower bodies knelt in front of their torsos, legs together. Their dried corpses contained not a drop of blood, all of it converging on Zuvendas�� forehead, forming a diamond-shaped blood mark.


    ��Fate�� I see it���� Zuvendas�� pupils shone with a flowing light. ��Everything will inevitablye to an end.��


    Zuvendas Kaesrei received the reward ��Blood Mark.��


    ��Blood Mark: Requires 100 milliliters of Kaesrei nsman��s blood to activate. The Blood Mark remains active for 10 minutes, during which the sorcerer��s cognitive abilities are enhanced by 15%.��The footage ended, but the echoes of its impact lingered.


    ��Kaesrei,�� Mercury chose his words carefully. ��This is an internal matter of your family, so I will notment. However, you can no longer represent the Kaesrei Family, and therefore, you cannot participate in the distribution of spoils. But I assure you, in the name of the Mercury Family, that any intelligence we acquire will be shared with the Kaesrei.��


    Mercury��s mixture of firmness and tact was a calcted effort. The Future Ranking had clearly pointed out Zuvendas�� future misdeeds, and not taking this chance to expel him would be wasting the Gospel��s assist. However, he still needed thebat strength of the Kaesrei sorcerers, at least to deter Senhaeser, so he gave Zuvendas enough face.


    ��Heh.��


    Zuvendas suddenly chuckled. ��I don��t think so. You can ask the Kaesrei. The patriarch still trusts me.��


    ��Quite confident,�� Qenna raised an eyebrow. ��If a traitor harming their kin appeared in Senhaeser, I would definitely turn them into a firework. Or are you confident you can convince your nsmen that the Ranking of Schemes was the Gospel framing you?��


    ��No, I��m quite sure this is my future,�� Zuvendas said. ��I do admire the ancestor Kross. If given the chance, I would stop at nothing to involve myself in Kross�� Fate Sect�� even without external pressure, just to break through the Sanctuary and ascend to legend, I would do it. After all, I��m out of options.��


    When Zuvendas mentioned being ��out of options,�� the Sanctuary sorcerers fell silent. They had been immersed in the Sanctuary realm for years and were frequent visitors to the Distant Sky Domain. In the mundane world, they had achieved countless feats and earned much admiration. Yet, the anxiety of having ��no path�� constantly tormented their hearts.


    Some found sce in their Family, like Qenna; others in their careers, like Ina; some pursued rankings, like Cleos�� Sanctuary sorcerers were often extraordinarily talented and proud individuals, making it hard for them to ept that their gifts had limits. It was like realizing that what they thought was freedom was just arger cage.


    When Zuvendas imed he would go to such extremes for power, everyone immediately believed him. They wouldn��t do the same, not because they didn��t want to, but because there were things in life more important than power.


    ��But the truly dangerous person in the Ranking of Schemes is not me,�� Zuvendas said. ��Schemes upon schemes.��


    Everyone was slightly taken aback and looked down at the continuously updating Ranking of Schemes.


    ��The Ranking of Schemes No. 8: Morgan��s Comprehension Fusion Ritual��


    ��Synopsis: Morgan Dune, a legendary sorcerer of the Mental Sect, was adept at love Miracles. During his life, he was adored by all, regardless of age or gender, even by silver legends. To acquire Morgan��s power, on April 10, 1678, Joel Hopkins decided to murder one male Sanctuary sorcerer, one female Sanctuary sorcerer, 100 males of various ages, and 100 females of various ages as sacrificial offerings to initiate the Comprehension Fusion Ritual.��


    ��Mastermind: Joel Hopkins��


    ��Joel Hopkins is a two-wings sorcerer from Modora,�� Mercury said with a serious expression. ��He��s highly talented and regarded as a Sanctuary seed; it wouldn��t be surprising for him to achieve Sanctuary within ten years.��


    But no one paid attention to Mercury��s intelligence. Everyone was focused on the bizarre information revealed by the Future Ranking.


    ��The Ranking of Schemes No. 7: Napoli��s Merciful Purification Ritual��


    ��Synopsis: Napoli Degil was a legendary sorcerer of the Truth Sect, known as the ��legend closest to an Angel.�� To inherit Napoli��s power, on April 10, 1678, Jeremy Degil destroyed the Abyss seal, causing an Abyssal riot and unleashing monsters from the deep Abyss into the city to initiate the Merciful Purification Ritual.��


    ��Mastermind: Jeremy Degil��


    ��The Ranking of Schemes No. 3: Colin Tenna��s Glory Forging Ritual��


    ��Synopsis: Colin Tenna Mercury, the ancestor of the Mercury Family, wielded the power of a deity as a mortal. His immense power still persists through generations. Thus, each generation of the Mercury Family has a Shadow Sect talent but is also fragile and short-lived. To inherit Colin Tenna��s power, on April 10, 1678, Rein Mercury dragged an entire city into the shadows, using 7,853,454 people as sacrificial offerings to initiate the Glory Forging Ritual.��


    ��Mastermind: Rein Mercury��


    Noticing the gaze directed at the Sanctuary sorcerer of the Shadow Sect, Ashe didn��t need to ask to know his name was Rein.


    Compared to these Sanctuary sorcerers who casually killed their entire families and sacrificed entire cities, Annan, who only killed people at a banquet, seemed rtively pure and kind.


    Butpared to the crimes that Rein, Zuvendas, and Annan willmit in the future, everyone was more concerned with the information revealed by the Future Ranking��


    ��Who is the Rust Crow?�� Cleos couldn��t help but ask. ��Why does it seem like all the Rituals are his doing?��


    In all the current images, although the masterminds were different, there was one person who connected them all��Rust Crow!


    Crown Descension, Wisdom Reawakening, Comprehension Fusion�� these costly and exceptionally evil sacrificial rituals all originated from Rust Crow! While Annan and the others were the masterminds, they were also consumers. The one providing the ritual knowledge, Rust Crow, was the true source of all evil, the cmity of this world!


    Moreover, it wasn��t just that. The eight schemes and rituals that had appeared so far all urred on the same day: April 10, 1678.


    This was definitely not a coincidence, but it was also impossible for the eight of them to have conspired together to make big news��at least Annan couldn��t have had any connections with them.


    Also, it was strange that the Future Ranking provided such specific timing. This wasn��t the Past Ranking; why would the Future Ranking lower its margin for error this way?


    ��Ashe,�� the Purple Moth suddenly leaned in close to the Cult Leader��s ear and whispered, ��did you notice�� these eight schemes, although iplete, are all rted to resurrection.��


    ��Yes.�� Ashe��s face was severe. ��And then?��


    ��That��s it. But don��t you think I��m very smart?��


    ��If you were as young as Lise, I might pat your head, but since you��re all grown up���� Ashe reached out and gently tapped Annan��s nose. ��I��ll reluctantly allow you to hug me.��


    Annan yfully punched his side, clearly pleased��now everyone��s attention was on the ranking list and Rust Crow, leaving the Funeral with less scrutiny. If Qenna remained firm, they might all return to Vamora. However, this time, they probably wouldn��t escape Qenna��s grasp again��


    At this moment, the ranking list updated again, and another familiar name appeared.


    ��Ranking of Schemes No. 2: Ewaton��s Fundamental Convergence Ritual��


    ��Synopsis: Ewaton Belldate, the ancestor of the Belldate Family, was a Five Wings sorcerer, a Demigod Angel, who oncemanded several deities. To dominate the Necromancy form of their ancestor Ewaton, on April 10, 1678, Yvaren Belldate burned the mental power of all subjugated individuals to initiate the Fundamental Convergence Ritual.��


    ��Mastermind: Yvaren Belldate��


    Damn!


    Everyone��s hearts were filled with admiration for Yvaren.


    This was the most ambitious n they had seen so far��Yvaren wasn��t just trying to resurrect her ancestor or inherit his legacy; she was directly attempting to dominate her ancestor!


    Only the Belldate family could y this game. After all, other people��s ancestors had long since returned to the Virtual Realm, but the Belldate��s Necromancy Angel was still lingering in some tomb. Conveniently, the Belldate��s ancestral spellcasting was from the Dominance Sect. With all the key elements in ce, not trying to dominate one��s own ancestor would indeed waste the fate��s arrangement.


    In the distance, Yvaren, who had been watching the scene unfold, frowned slightly.


    She hadn��t expected the Belldate family��s years of nning to be revealed just like that.


    Yes, this wasn��t her idea alone. It had been thought of generations ago��perhaps starting from Ewaton��s son��the Belldate family had been contemting how to dominate this Necromancy Angel.


    However, because there was no immediate survival pressure, this n had always been in the process of being perfected and had never been put into practice. There were many significant ws that couldn��t be ignored, and Yvaren herself had never seriously considered this n.


    But upon seeing the image, Yvaren understood how Rust Crow��s ritual was clever: she would burn a massive amount of mental power to warp reality, weaving a body out of nothing, and then use Ritual Track to summon a wisp of the Necromancy Angel��s consciousness, trapping it within the body. Since every cell of this body would be under Yvaren��s control, this cage wouldpletely imprison the Necromancy Angel, achieving indirect domination.


    Yvaren was immediately tempted and couldn��t wait to try it.


    But everyone had the same question: who exactly was Rust Crow?


    Soon, the Gospel Book would answer all their questions��


    ��Ranking of Schemes No. 1: Ashe��s Kingdom Resurrection Ritual��

 Chapter 409: The Future of the Tactile Sense

    Blood Moon Kingdom, Kaimon City.


    Freya, dressed in a whiteb coat, pouted as she left Sivirin��s consultation room, quickly exiting the Biological Prosthesis Section with her head down. Along the way, other doctors and nurses whispered as they watched her, but no one greeted her, as if an invisible mental barrier separated them.


    However, the Bewitcher didn��t mind. Compared to this, Sivirin��s scolding earlier had hurt her more deeply.


    Even though she hadn��t graduated yet, she was already a trainee Healer at Kaimon Affiliated Hospital and a student of Sivirin. However, her study program wasn��t in the Mental Sect but in the Illusion Sect.


    The Mental and Illusion Sects had been closely linked since their inception. However, in contrast to the almost-shielded Mental Sect in the Blood Moon Kingdom, the Illusion Sect was a highly sought-after Spellcasting Sect. Not to mention the huge demand for Illusion sorcerers in the TV drama industry, the increasingly popr virtual game world known as ��the second world�� within the veil was practically built by Illusion sorcerers. Their annual sries kept rising, with the talent market unable to meet the demand.


    Even Madara, the founder of the Mental Sect known as ��Mind��s Eye,�� probably never imagined that the Illusion Sect, originally developed as an auxiliary branch, would one day be more productive than the Mental Sect.


    In the medical field, the status of the Illusion Sect has also been rising yearly, not for treating diseases but for involving greater interests and a brighter future.


    Freya arrived at Selina��s ward, where a warning sign in ck and red hung on the door:


    ��This ward is upied by only one patient, Selina Bright, a girl with a height of 1.3 meters, long silver-white hair with a streak of wine red, wearing a blue and white striped hospital gown. When performing any tasks that require entering the ward, such as delivering meals, changing medicine, or cleaning, please adhere to the following rules�������� Only one person may enter the ward at a time. If you see two people already inside, do not enter.��


    ���� Remember the patient��s appearance. If her appearance does not match the description, leave immediately and notify Healer Sivirin.��


    ���� If you open the ward door and see the patient outside wanting to enter with you, leave the hospital as quickly as possible (for example, by jumping out of a window).��


    ���� If you feel someone pushing you into the ward when you open the door, jump out of the window immediately, regardless of who it is.��


    ���� If you feel unwell or notice significant structural distortions inside the ward, leave immediately; if you cannot move, imagine yourself already standing outside the ward. When someone else opens the door, you can turn around and leave (do not imagine pushing others into the ward).��


    ��This hospital is very safe; any idents are purely personal issues.��


    Freya took a deep breath before cautiously opening the door.


    The Bewitcher opened the door and nced inside, seeing Selina lying on the bed reading a book. She immediately rushed over and hugged the doll girl. ��Selina~��


    ��Freya!�� Selina affectionately hugged the Bewitcher back, rubbing her cheek against Freya��s. She knew Freya loved this kind of intimacy. ��Wait a minute!��


    Freya looked at Selina curiously. Selina, with her hands on her hips, pretended to be serious and said, ��Hello, Miss. Although I don��t know what you��ve been through, sadness is not allowed here. You look super cute today!��


    ��Huh?�� The Bewitcher blinked. ��I thought I hid it well.��


    ��When you��ve been in this room as long as I have, you can sense any change in the air.�� Selina grabbed Freya��s hand and swung it back and forth. ��The moment you came in, the air was filled with the scent of sadness.��


    Yes, you read that right. Selina now had hands-but only within this ward.


    After discovering that Selina never had limb neurons to begin with, Sivirin changed the treatment strategy. The currently popr biological prosthesis relies on the extension of neurons. Without neural connections, a prosthesis is just a pile of soulless scrap metal.


    Therefore, the only prosthesis suitable for Selina was thetest project being researched and developed by the Four Great Institutes: the phantasm prosthesis.


    If a biological prosthesis is like cutting off a person��s hand and recing it with a universal multitool, then a phantasm prosthesis is like convincing someone that the universal multitool under their arm is their third hand, without removing any of their original organs.


    This is a crazier but more promising project. After all, humans can only control their limbs, senses, and internal organs. No matter how much biological prostheses develop, there can only be twenty equipment slots, and no more souls can be recognized. However, if phantasm prostheses can be developed, humans could have three heads, six arms, a hundred eyes, and a thousand ears, undoubtedly marking another Spellcasting revolution��three heads mean three times the learning efficiency, even sorcerers would be envious!


    But the progress of phantasm prostheses has always been slow, rooted in the word ��phantasm��: how do you describe colors to a blind person, or let a deaf person hear thunder? How do you imagine controlling organs that never existed in the first ce?


    However, Selina��s rare case became Sivirin��s breakthrough point��it��s difficult for a normal person to imagine having a third hand, but what if a doll imagines having limbs?


    Thus, this ward was set up as a miracle seam between reality and illusion, where Selina��s phantasms could be reality. Everything proceeded smoothly; Selina quickly imagined having hands, and it��s estimated that it wouldn��t be long before she imagines having legs. After that, a miracle surgery would fixate them, making Selina the first phantasm prosthesis user.


    This treatment is undoubtedly costly, but with Sivirin��s deep background and Selina��s rare case, the Institute spared no expense, allowing Sivirin to indulge in her research. However, this treatment methodes with risks��not for Selina herself, but for others entering the room.


    Because Selina��s phantasms be reality, when she has whimsical thoughts, the ward turns into an unpredictable eerie realm. The notice outside the ward is a summary of experiences from multiple idents.


    Although Selina��s condition is now very stable, few people besides Freya and a few others visit her in the ward.


    ��I got scolded by Teacher Sivirin����


    ��How did she scold you?�� Selina was a bit puzzled, as she felt that Sivirin liked Freya quite a bit.


    ��She scolded me for not having a regr routine���� The Bewitcher shrugged. ��I don��t even know how she knew I entered the Virtual Realm after midnightst night. She said I was wasting the Blood Moon��s favor and that the best time to log in to the Virtual Realm is at 10 PM�� Wait, could Teacher be spying on me?!��


    Selina guessed, ��Maybe she saw you logging into the veil around 11 PM?��


    ��That��s possible���� The Bewitcher tilted her head.


    Selina asked curiously, ��But don��t you usually log in to the Virtual Realm at 10 PM? Why sotest night?��


    ��Last night���� The Bewitcher��s face turned red, and she showed a silly smile. ��Hehe����


    Ever since she found the diary copy that day, the Bewitcher kept it for herself. After following the updates for several days, she was certain that this was Ashe��s diary, and that the mischievous man, wherever he was, kept updating it.


    Through the diary copy, Freya could observe Ashe��s entire prison break process from a first-person perspective. She knew he was bullied by a man named Igor when he first entered the prison and that he recognized a woman called the Death Maniac Sword Princess from the beginning��


    The Death Maniac Sword Princess!


    Tsk tsk tsk!


    What an annoying name!


    Although Freya was very upset, she could only watch Ashe and the Sword Princess explore the Virtual Realm together. Last night, Ashe updated the diary to describe his first Blood Moon Tribunal, where he showed a vulnerable side in front of the Sword Princess. The Bewitcher wished she could take the Sword Princess��s ce tofort Ashe, and then, and then��


    Seeing the pink bubbles popping out of Freya��s head, Selina thought that the Bewitcher had a strong mental power. Although this room was mainly controlled by her thoughts, others could also slightly influence the illusion energy here-the stronger the mental power, the greater the influence.


    If Gerard walked into this room, Selina couldn��t harm a single white hair on his head even if she tried her best.


    And Freya, you��re reminiscing about your spellcasting materials in front of an innocent girl. The dreaming free spirit must think you have great potential.


    After chatting for a while, Freya had to go home. Before leaving, Selina asked, ��Are others still bullying you?��


    ��Of course not.�� The Bewitcher shook her head repeatedly. ��My teacher is Sivirin after all����


    ��But they still ostracize you secretly, right?��


    Freya admitted it.


    As a Bewitcher who hadn��t yet graduated, even though she was a sorcerer, it would have been impossible for her to directly join Kaimon Hospital. Normally, she would need to undergo several years of standardized training at hospitals in other viges or towns. It was only through Sivirin��s backdoor arrangement that she got in, and Sivirin even took her on as a student. Naturally, Freya faced criticism from other Healers. Even if there wasn��t tant discrimination, the atmosphere of ostracism was impossible to eliminate.


    However, the Bewitcher didn��t mind it at all.


    Selina thought for a moment, then asked Freya to extend her finger. She bit down hard, drawing blood!


    The Bewitcher tried to pull back in pain, but Selina held on and licked the wound with her tongue.


    ��That should do it,�� Selina said seriously. ��Now you have my scent, and others won��t bully you anymore.��


    Freya flicked Selina��s forehead in annoyance but didn��t me her, thinking it was just a little girl��s blessing. ��Thank you, then.��


    Leaving the ward, the Bewitcher thought she had to log into the Virtual Realm on time tonight. She could read the diary copy in the morning.


    Logging into the Virtual Realm on time was good, as she could see the little bat.


    Ever since she left the Whirlpool and ran into the little bat, the Bewitcher had encountered it every night in the Virtual Realm. The only exception wasst night when she logged in two hourste.


    Freya suspected she had triggered some virtual realm mechanics because the little bat not only followed her every night but also cast Miracles to help in battles.


    Even if the little bat couldn��t help, Freya liked it a lot��having a pet to apany her through the vast white mist of the Sea of Knowledge was wonderful.


    Thinking of this, the Bewitcher grew even more annoyed with the Sword Princess��why her! Why not me! I want Ashe as a pet!


    On the other side, after Freya left the ward, Selina��s smile faded. Her hands slowly disappeared, and shey on the bed like a doll.


    Receiving treatment was naturally a temporary measure; she would never allow herself to truly have limbs. ��Loss�� was an embodiment of Eternity. Once she was ��polluted�� by ��possession,�� she wouldpletely lose the gaze of the Four Pirs.


    The reason Selina blessed Freya just now was simple: Freya was already her designated chief cadre of the Four Pirs Cult.


    That��s right, although Selina had not yet managed to convert the Bewitcher, this wasn��t her fault.


    It was the Four Pirs�� fault.


    Since arriving in the Blood Moon Kingdom, Selina had found herself constantly out of luck, even bing a rare case under close observation at the hospital. It seemed like fate itself was obstructing her mission to spread faith and harvest souls. After some thought, she felt the root cause was that the Four Pirs were not providing enough support.


    It was natural for Tactile Sense to be rejected by fate, much like how the body��s immune system automatically kills bacteria. But Tactile Sense had previously been able to hide her fate trajectory with the help of the Four Pirs, allowing her to expand her operations smoothly.


    Selina was very sure that the Four Pirs were now definitely watching Ashe Heath��s live broadcast, forgetting to support her work in the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    However, these days would soon be a thing of the past.


    By her calctions, Eternity had been entangled with Ashe for a month now, which meant��


    Ashe��s death was already part of the future.


    How could someone who isn��t even Tactile Sense defy someone who is?


    Once she witnessed Ashe��s death, the Four Pirs would naturally shift their gaze to the lovely Selina, and then the little Bewitcher would obediently be her chief cadre.


    ��Ranking of Schemes No. 1: Ashe��s Kingdom Resurrection Ritual.��


    Lise instinctively gripped Ashe��s sleeve, and Annan and Qenna immediately turned to look at him.


    Ashe himself, however, felt nothing.


    ording to the pattern of the previous nine schemes, the person named in the scheme title was already dead. However, Ashe had brushed shoulders with death many times. If there really was a Grim Reaper in charge of his case, that Reaper would definitely have shoulder impingement by now.


    Not to mention, he was a foreigner. Could the death woven by your Gospel really sh the life of a Blood Moon native like him?


    Inparison, he was more curious about who wanted to resurrect him.


    However, unlike the previous nine schemes, the Kingdom Resurrection Ritual did not list the mastermind but directly presented video evidence��


    ��Great Rust Crow of the Abyss, Goodness follows you, evil admires you! Light yearns for you, darkness also desires you! You are an existence beyond all, the color bestowed upon all things by the gods!��


    Ashe finally couldn��t hold it in anymore.

 Chapter 410: Good Morning, Igor

    ��Four Pirs Cult����


    Cleos murmured softly. Qenna, Annan, and several others raised their eyebrows, but most of the sorcerers looked puzzled.


    High-ranking sorcerers who had worked with the Red Hat Firm generally knew about the Four Pirs Cult. Firms that focused on intelligence gathering were also somewhat aware, but other sorcerers couldn��t possibly know about this mysterious organization��mainly because the Four Pirs Cult had always struggled in the Kingdom of the Gospel.


    It wasn��t just struggling now; it had always been this way. The only time the Four Pirs Cult could shine briefly was during the civil wars and regime changes in the Kingdom, but it would quickly be suppressed again.


    The omnipresent Gospel system was too restrictive for such a mysterious organization. Even if the Gospel didn��t intentionally leak information about the Four Pirs Cult, as long as the Red Hats used the Gospel for reconnaissance, they could eventually root out the cult.


    To the Kingdom of the Gospel, the Four Pirs Cult, the Abyss, the virtual realm passage, and the Firm were collectively known as the ��Four gues����problems that could never bepletely solved but posed little threat, thus no one paid much attention to the Four Pirs Cult.


    However, they would soon understand that the Four Pirs Cult��s struggles in the Kingdom of the Gospel were not only due to historical progress but also closely rted to the leader��s personal abilities.


    ��In the Underground Hall, the leader of the Four Pirs Cult, known as the ��Rust Crow,�� sat on a throne seemingly woven from iron crow feathers, overlooking countless kneeling ck robe cultists.��


    ��His voice was ethereal, as if it came from men, women, the old, and the young, filled with a charm that pierced through eardrums: ��From today onwards, you are all Rust Crows. You are my eyes, my tongue, my ears�� you are my tactile sense.��������You will delve into every dark corner of this Kingdom.�� In the Mermaid Pce of the sewer, sirens were worshipping the heretical four pirs.��


    ����You will step into every hall of this Kingdom.�� In avish banquet hall, several elegantly dressed people revealed their white gloves on their right hands and exchanged knowing smiles.��


    ����You will be the pirs of the benevolent.�� In a war-torn city, sorcerers were rescuing civilians from danger. Every child who was saved received a ck crow feather as a gift, which became their source of courage.��


    ��You Will Be the Savior of the Viins��


    ��As the vault door was blown open, the mob surged in, looting gold, silver, and spirits. They looked ahead with admiration at the sorcerer wearing white gloves, drawn by the more elegant and brutal violence.��


    ����Then, you will fulfill their desires and needs.����


    ����To those obsessed with family names, teach her how to crown herself.�� In the Firm, Annan looked down at the invitation in her hand.��


    ����To those who yearn for power, teach him how to inherit wisdom.�� In the training ground, a sweat-drenched Zuvendas repeatedly tried to tear up the paper in his hand, but the paper, thin as a cicada��s wing, was as resilient as a mountain at that moment.��


    ����To those who are lonely and isted, teach him how to gain understanding.����


    ����To those who chase grandeur, teach him how to forge glory.����


    ����To those who are indifferent and thoughtless, teach her how to dominate the fundamentals.����


    At this point, whether it was the supporting characters making cameo appearances in the projection or the onlookersfortably watching from outside the projection, a deep chill crept into their hearts.


    What stood before them was not a remote rebellious organization that the Red Hats could eliminate at any moment, but a deeply rooted and nationwide eerie cult.


    They controlled thergest intelligence organization in the inner world, the Mermaid Pce, and had infiltrated the top ten conglomerates of the Gospel. They had supporters among the people, and criminals idolized them!


    The most terrifying aspect was their ability to see through human weaknesses and exploit the darkest corners of human nature. Even Sanctuary sorcerers were merely pawns at their disposal!


    The top-ranked individuals on the Ranking of Schemes were all like Zuvendas��they understood that if they truly obtained the ritual knowledge given by the Rust Crow, they would most likelymit the crimes prophesied by the Future Ranking.


    It was precisely because they couldn��t refuse that these were called weaknesses.


    Moreover, they realized that the top nine schemes in the Ranking of Schemes were all just preludes to the first scheme!


    They were indeed the masterminds behind their respective schemes, but after each scheme, there was always another scheme!


    An indescribable panic burned in the hearts of all the spectators in the silence��what exactly did the Rust Crow want? He had created such arge organization, controlled so many sorcerers, and induced so many schemes. What was his unspeakable purpose?


    ��The Rust Crow rotated his throne to reveal a massive map on the wall behind him��the Gospel map. The terrain of the Kingdom of the Gospel was generally a long rectangle, stretching from north to south and narrow from east to west. After more than a thousand years of development, almost every ce was inhabited by intelligent creatures.��


    ��The Rust Crow took out a notebook with sorcerers�� profiles attached to it.��


    ����Crown.�� Annan��s photo was ced on the city at the top.��


    ����Wisdom.�� Zuvendas��s photo was affixed to the city in the upper right.��


    ����Foundation.�� Yvaren��s photo was attached to the city in the middle and lower part of the Gospel.��


    ��When the Rust Crow connected these photos with lines, an inverted tree pattern appeared on the Gospel map.��


    At this point, everyonepletely understood the truth of the first Scheme.


    ��Madman,�� Rein murmured.


    He was indeed a madman��the Rust Crow not only schemed against multiple Sanctuary sorcerers, but all of their schemes were merely parts of arger Ritual. This ultimate Ritual would envelop the entire Kingdom of the Gospel!


    No wonder all the schemes were scheduled on the same day. They even suspected that the time difference between the first nine schemes wouldn��t exceed an hour, ensuring the final Ritual��s activation.


    Rein and the others couldn��t muster much anger; they were more filled with disbelief.


    As long as they used the Gospel to detect something amiss,


    As long as any link in this chain of schemes failed,


    As long as��


    To put it bluntly, the failure of this Scheme would be normal; its sess would be a Miracle!


    They couldn��t fathom how much preparation the Rust Crow had done to precisely guide the first nine schemes. The sheer thought of it was overwhelming.


    The first Scheme truly deserved its name!


    However, the inverted tree pattern had ten nodes in total, with each of the first nine schemes responsible for one. It was evident that the Rust Crow would personally handle the final one.


    And thest node was in��


    The southern city, Azura.


    The Rust Crow stood at the bottom floor of the Inverted Skyscraper, looking down at the bustling steel forest below. As a firework shot up, a series of fireworks suddenly rose in the city on the first level, and then sparks flew along a ring, cutting out a massive circle in the center of the city!


    The sorcerers saw the space within the ring of sparks being torn into gray chaos, their expressions were remarkable because they all recognized this phenomenon.


    Not only did they recognize it, but they visited it every night!


    ��How can there be such arge Gate of Truth?!�� one sorcerer couldn��t help but exim.


    ��Wait, if something from reality touches the Gate of Truth����


    ��In theory, no material can travel through the Gate of Truth, but in this situation����


    When the giant Gate of Truth was fully formed, the Rust Crow seemed to receive some information. He shattered the floor-to-ceiling ss and leaped directly toward the Gate of Truth.


    ����Crown.�� Danzel, just descended into reality, suddenly found herself detached from Annan��s body, and her soul rapidly burned, turning into smoke and flying south.��


    ����Wisdom.�� The diamond-shaped blood mark Zuvendas had condensed from ughtering his kin suddenly flew south on its own.��


    ����Comprehension.�� ��Mercy.�� ��Severity.�� ��Beauty.�� ��Victory.�� ��Glory.�� ��Fundamental.����


    Raising the perspective to overlook the entire Kingdom of the Gospel, one could see a clear inverted tree pattern. Ritual energy from various parts of the Kingdom of the Gospel converged and flowed into Azura!


    ����And finally������ The Rust Crow bit his index finger, letting his blood drip into the Gate of Truth: ����Kingdom.����


    ��Boom!��


    A clearly visible Aurora Veil rose over the entire Kingdom of the Gospel. The Mermaid Pce, conglomerates, Red Hats, and criminal gangs�� Unbeknownst to all, the Four Pirs Cult had already devoured the entire Kingdom of the Gospel. Following the leader��smand, their life energy also flowed along the inverted tree into the final node-Kingdom!


    Deceiving countless sorcerers, manipting billions of lives!


    The Gate of Truth suddenly contracted to a point, and the first level of Azura was ttened, creating a massive circr crater in the process.

 Chapter 411: I Am Miss Yvarens Dog!

    Chapter 411: I Am Miss Yvarens Dog!


    ��Resurrection!��


    Rein Mercury��s eyes widened as he gazed at Ashe standing behind Nona, his eyes filled with shock and desire.


    No wonder the first Scheme was so intricate, no wonder the Kingdom Ritual was so grand!


    This was truly a resurrection ritual, reconstructing the dead, reversing life and death!


    Among the spellcastermunity, there is a very peculiar mindset: the weaker and more ignorant the spellcaster, the more they believe resurrection is a simple matter. Because they have seen many people who had their heads bashed in but were saved in time, they equate it to resurrection. They assume real resurrection couldn��t be that much harder, right?


    Only those who delve deep into the upper echelons of the Virtual Realm, study countless handbooks, and learn from the experiences of many predecessors realize that resurrection is the greatest Divine Intervention in the world.


    The Mercury family members are fragile ��ss people��; sunlight, table corners, toys on the floor�� Mercury was always easily harmed by his environment since childhood. So, after bing a spellcaster, almost all of them dual-trained in the Water Sect to be Healers, and Rein was no exception. Years ago, when Rein��s younger sister��s soul returned to the Time Continent, Rein, who was proficient in Healing Miracles, also tried to find a way to resurrect his loved one.


    But he quickly discovered that healing and resurrection are fundamentally different matters.


    Healing the living is easy, resurrecting the dead is as hard as climbing to heaven!The death of a spellcaster generally goes through three processes: physical demise, which includes broken hearts, head injuries, or bodies reduced to ashes��this is the only stage a healing spellcaster can intervene; the soul��s fall, where the spellcaster��s soul is pulled by gravity into the sixyered hell, which cleanses all excess ��impurities�� from the soul; merging into the Virtual Realm, where the soul, after the purification of hell, settles in a corner of the Virtual Realm, bing a source of knowledge for the next generation of spellcasters.


    If a spellcaster diespletely, it means they have be a spellcaster projection, and resurrecting them requires three things: finding their soul entity in the Virtual Realm, retrieving their heartbeat from hell, and reconstructing their physical body in the real world��thest step is crucial; if the soul and body are notpatible, the soul will inevitably fall off again.


    For example, Annan��s ancestor summons; her ancestor must return to the Virtual Realm after existing in reality for a period. A non-original soul and body will always experience wear and tear, and as this wear umtes to a certain point, the body can no longer contain the soul.


    However, this bodily issue can be circumvented, such as by repairing and patching up the original corpse. But in the first Scheme, it was clearly about directly reconstructing, weaving a brand new and perfectly fitting body from nothing!


    Yet for a spellcaster, let alone crafting a new body, just finding a soul entity and retrieving a heartbeat ispletely impossible��this is undoubtedly a domain only a Divine Sovereign could touch!


    Inparison, the Rituals of the first nine Schemes seem exceptionally cost-effective. Temporarily summoning an ancestor to possess you, inheriting predecessors�� knowledge, obtaining past powers�� although the costs are also extremely high, it��s not true resurrection. Therefore, the Ritual process appears considerably easier, something Rein and the others could aplish alone.


    And what about the final, first Scheme?


    Years of nning, a workforce numbering in the hundreds of thousands to millions, and a risk factor so high that ��seeking one��s own doom�� makes it sound almost euphemistic��no matter how you look at it, only a ��madman�� can describe it!


    If they weren��t mad, why join the Four Pirs Cult?


    If they weren��t mad, why would they conceive and implement such a Scheme?


    If they weren��t mad��


    How could they create a shadow kingdom just to resurrect one man?


    Therefore, everyone gazed at Ashe with a conflicted look, hoping he��d hurry up and die, yet wishing he��d survive a bit longer. After all, Ashe had appeared in three ranking lists consecutively, and regardless of whether he died or lived, he��d undoubtedly bring significant disaster to the Gospel�� he was a true cmity child!


    Among the spellcasters, ��Weeping Sand Red Cap�� Cleos�� feelings were the mostplicated.


    Because she knew that Harvey, Igor, and Ashe were all individuals Annan had picked up casually. She was there when Annan signed the Pact with them, even standing nearby as a physical threat.


    It was like witnessing a historic moment.


    Cleos originally thought it was just an unmemorable day. Compared to these few outsiders, the runaway Eternal Presence was what truly troubled her. Yet, life is indeed full of surprises; it turns out it was these down-and-out strangers who would cause Gospel to be swayed by storms, while the once-arrogant Cult Leader was struggling to make a new start somewhere far away.


    Cleos now even doubted whether Annan had deceived her��did she really find those three in the wild? Were they not handpicked from some Dark God academy, a demon��s nest, or an apocalyptic summer camp for elite students?


    Feeling the piercing gazes of everyone around him, Ashe instinctively hugged Nona��s waist, ready to grab Auntie and run at any moment. However, Ashe suddenly turned back to look at Annan and asked out of the blue, ��Did you really not conspire with Igor?��


    ��No,�� Annan��s expression turned slightly amused. ��What are you specting about?��


    ��Because of the Young Lady, our future is inevitably the oue of deceiving Gospel. But wrong as it is, within Gospel��s own logical framework, these erroneous oues cannot be contradictory or inconsistent with our characters,�� Ashe exined. ��ording to the other families that appeared in the images, the Ranking of Schemes at least includes consortium families, and those in the Art Ranking are struggling to maintain their status. The only one left in the Family Ranking is the Necromancy family�� which means the chronological order is the Ranking of Schemes, the Art Ranking, and then the Family Ranking.��


    Annan nodded; everyone more or less had this figured out after viewing the Future Ranking.


    ��In the Family Ranking, Harvey said he obtained the location of the Necromancy angel��s tomb from the Belldate family, yet he��s not particrly known for gathering intelligence, and his social contacts don��t include living people,�� Ashe nced at Alice who was sitting on the coffin, and she nodded in agreement. ��This means that the intelligence [Belldate possesses Angelic Heritage] must havee from someone else.��


    Ashe then turned to look at the Belldate main house. ��However, the Belldate family has only two members, an older sister and a younger sister, and they would never betray their family��s secrets�� but now, the Belldate family has another person. And in the ��Ranking of Schemes,�� Gospel has identified that person as someone who would never forsake us.��


    ����Would never forsake us������ Annan chewed on these words and suddenly smiled, ��Perhaps so.��


    ��But you����


    ��But I didn��t lie. Eye contact, bodynguage, directmunication, written messages�� I exchanged no intelligence with Igor.�� Annan shrugged, ��We have no conspiracy; the only thing we share is a consensus.��


    ��What consensus?��


    Annan did not answer, instead ncing down at Lise.


    Lise thought for a moment and then gently pulled Ashe��s hand away from Nona��s slender waist. She whispered into his ear, ��Dad, why did Aunt Annan bring us to Meph?��


    Ashe was taken aback.


    While Ashe and the others were chatting, the spellcasters came to a consensus.


    ��Senhaeser,�� Rein said calmly, ��I��m sorry, but we need to revise our terms��you can only take your daughter and other non-essential personnel. Ashe Heath and Archibald Harvey must be handed over to different forces for supervision.��


    Although Gospel had not explicitly stated what kind of threat Ashe posed, his historical role in linking together the three future disaster ranking lists was enough for no one to dare consider him a valueless 0-star waste.


    In other words, the mere fact that he was breathing was already the greatest sphemy against Gospel.


    He needed to be strictly monitored, and solitary confinement was essential!


    To use a card game analogy, if Ashe were a card, he��d have little effect on his own. But if he paired with Annan Dn, Archibald Harvey, or Rust Crow, it would be an unbeatablebo!


    Now everyone recognized the significant threat Ashe posed. Even Cleos, who had a deep connection with Annan, no longer harbored old feelings and tacitly agreed to Rein��s stringent terms.


    Moreover, with Rein, Zuvendas, and Ina all in agreement, Ashe Heath would be handed over to the state by Cleos herself! From a standpoint of interest alone, Cleos wouldn��t permit Qenna to take Ashe away!


    The spellcasters slowly began to lift off, surrounding Qenna and her group from all directions!


    Ashe sensed the impending danger and was about to step back when Nona grabbed his right hand. While Annanforted Little Banjeet, who was crouching down with his head in his hands, she kept her eyes on Qenna��s back.


    Qenna lifted her head, looking up at the four spellcasters from the Sanctuary in mid-air. For the first time, there was a trace of vulnerability in her voice. ��Can��t we discuss this further?��


    ��Hand over Heath and Harvey,�� Zuvendas replied, ��and we can take our time to talk.��


    The Elf matriarch exhaled deeply. ��I see�� now I understand.��


    ��I will only protect my people, my nsmen.��


    Lise clung tightly to Ashe, looking down at her hand mirror, so anxious she was nearly in tears.


    ��So,�� Qenna said slowly as she drew out her dual guns, her tone solemn and steady, ��I will not let you take Annan Senhaeser and Ashe Senhaeser.��


    ��I��m sorry,�� Rein said, ��but you leave us no choice.��


    Alice blinked, reaching out to tap the coffin lid, attempting to draw the others�� attention��what about us?


    Just as the tension reached its breaking point, the Gospel Book btedly revealed more details about the first ce on the Ranking of Schemes:


    ��Ranking of Schemes , 1st ce: Ashe��s Kingdom Resurrection Ritual��


    ��Synopsis: To resurrect Ashe Heath, Four Pirs Cult leader Igor Bukin initiated the Kingdom Resurrection Ritual on April 10, 1678, based on the previous ninepleted rituals.��


    ��Mastermind: Igor Bukin.��


    Everyone nced at the information but didn��t give it much thought, already familiar with Rust Crow��s name. Only Yvaren, watching from a distance, snapped out of her bewildered state upon seeing Igor��s name.


    In a split second, Yvaren realized she was caught in a scheme not revealed by Gospel.


    She immediately made the right decision��activating the fireworks instation in the front garden, using the brilliant disy to capture everyone��s attention!


    ��Everyone, I����


    Thunk!


    With a muffled, invisible blow, not only did the boasting spellcasters fall from the sky, but Yvaren��s only chance to clear her name was stuck in her throat.


    Simultaneously, the entirety of the Belldate manor began to glow.


    Hell, the Sea of Trees, mountains, grasnds, the main house�� statues in all locations started to light up, with faint blue rivers of light flowing steadily from Meph, continuously pouring into the statues throughout the manor.


    In the blink of an eye, only Ashe and hispanions were still standing. Everyone else, including Qenna, had copsed to the ground, their bodies trembling and unable to move, like puppets ready to be controlled.


    Despite this, Ashe and his group didn��t dare to make any sudden moves. In their eyes, it seemed like Miss Yvaren had shouted out to protect them, and then everyone fell down��oh my gosh, Miss Yvaren is so gentle!


    At that moment, Ashe noticed a new message in his Gospel Book. The sender was�� Rust Crow?


    After reading the message, Ashe��s expression grew hesitant. But he soon took a deep breath, steeling himself, and courageously walked to the center of the area.


    He looked around, meeting the panicked gazes of everyone, and then shed a wickedly charming smile:


    ��Sorry, but I��m actually Miss Yvaren��s dog. To offend me is to offend Belldate�� and you��re all finished!��

 Chapter 412: Domination!

    Yvaren Belldate!?


    Everyone immediately believed it��this was clearly Belldate��s territory, and they had just been ensnared by the various mechanisms including volcanic eruptions, white mist from the Sea of Knowledge, Reverse Rain from the Golden Flow, and more. Even Sanctuary spellcasters had not been spared.


    Indeed, if it was Belldate from the Angel Family, she did possess the power to suppress them.


    Moreover��


    Rein and the others turned their heads with great effort, looking at Yvaren in the distance, who was watching them from the railing. In the fading light of the fireworks, she observed the group without any expression, like a homeowner releasing the dogs and then watching the show.


    ��Belldate���� Rein trembled all over. Every rebellious thought in his mind����stand up,�� ��gather spellforce,�� ��cast a Miracle,�� ��activate the Artifact Spirit����was extinguished the moment it surfaced.


    Only fear, shame, and panic remained in his heart. Even anger faded instantly, incapable of fueling his emotional energy.


    There was no sealing of spellforce, no restriction on movement. Instead, they were directly dominated from the source of their thoughts!


    Dominance Sect!Rein never expected that his first encounter with Belldate��s Dominance Sect would end in such aplete defeat!


    Clearly, Belldate was extremely displeased with their actions and used the Dominance Sect to directly suppress these intruders on her private property!


    ��You���� He was at a loss for words, unable to utter even a harsh word, as curses were quenched before they could leave his mind. ��This time, the Mercury Family�� trespassed on Belldate Manor without permission. On behalf of Mercury, I apologize and ask for Miss Belldate��s forgiveness.��


    Zuvendas was no different. As a renowned spellcaster from Sanctuary and a high-ranking leader in his Family, he now could only wriggle on thewn like a caterpir, his eyes wide and teeth clenched, as he said, ��The Kaesrei Family�� offers the sincerest apologies to Belldate!��


    The others seemed to be reminded by Zuvendas�� words, and their apologies grew louder and more solemn: ��On behalf of the Vastino n, I offer a profound reflection, remembering Belldate��s tolerance and respect. We will make a grandpensation for Belldate��s losses in the future!�� ��The Rnd Family has learned a great lesson from this event. We are willing to go to any lengths to earn Belldate��s friendship, even if it means going bankrupt, just to receive an olive branch from Belldate!��


    Though their words were increasingly ttering, the grim looks on their faces tranted them to something like, ��You have the guts to kill me now, or I��lle back with my family to ughter yours.��


    Like the Mental Sect, the Dominance Sect also focuses on three elements: thoughts, will, and emotions. The domination that Rein and the others were subjected to was ��Thought Domination.�� All their thoughts were directly twisted and suppressed, making them unable to move even a finger, and the spirits within their souls couldn��t receive theirmands.


    For the individuals involved, this was undoubtedly a terrifying and awful experience. They could keenly feel their thoughts being ripped away and crushed, as if a stick was stirring their brains. Thus, Rein and the others�� concessions were genuinely heartfelt; they only wanted to escape this humiliating state of being puppets as quickly as possible!


    However, faced with the submission and surrender of Sanctuary spellcasters and consortium families, Yvaren remained unmoved, her aloof demeanor as steadfast as her blue hair tonight.


    ��Ahem!�� Ashe coughed lightly and gestured for Lise and the others to stay calm. He then turned and bowed to Yvaren. ��Lady Blue Rose, do you wish to ept the apologies of these insolent individuals? Or would you prefer that we, your loyal dogs, punish their baseness and trample their dignity for you?��


    Who is Blue Rose? You say it like we have some special designation between us, but I��m not that familiar with you!


    And it wasn��t me who did this. I hadn��t intended to dominate you all so crudely!


    You��ve all misunderstood. The real culprits are Igor and Bukin!


    Yvaren had countless things she wanted to express, but the ��Thought Domination�� she was under was the most thorough: not only were her actions controlled, but even speaking, facial expressions, and frowning were all under domination. She couldn��t even pretend to pass out because the moment she had the mand�� to copse, it was immediately purged!


    It was as if she were a monarch held hostage by a power-hungry minister, every expression and movement entirely controlled by the regent. People only saw her tyrannical rule but failed to see the evil minister pulling the strings behind the Court!


    At this moment, the only emotions stewing in her heart were her anger toward Igor and her regret for being so slow to recognize the signs.


    She should have noticed sooner!


    When the Rust Crow mentioned that the new dogma of the Four Pirs Cult was ��Increase what they desire, gift what they need,�� she should have realized that the Rust Crow was Igor��because these words are at the core of Belldate��s Dominance Sect principles!


    The Rust Crow was able to expand the Four Pirs Cult to an unprecedented scale because he stole knowledge from the Dominance Sect and applied it to cult management. Although the Rust Crow didn��t receive the blessing of an Angel ancestor, the Four Pirs�� gifts were probably just as powerful!


    From the beginning, Igor never intended to betray the Funeral Gospel!


    He came for Belldate��s Dominance Sect! Even the Gospel saw through it!


    But Yvaren couldn��t help but feel a deep confusion: she had repeatedly verified that Igor indeed hadn��t conspired with anyone else; this was purely Igor acting alone. But�� how was that possible?


    Was he not afraid of losing the trust of hispanions?


    Why did Annan and the others subtly cooperate with his actions?


    More importantly, how did he seize the highest authority of Belldate, even to the point where I, the patriarch, am now under his domination?


    Could it be that I have be the Substitute, and he is the real Igor Belldate?


    Smoldering confusion gnawed at the blue-haired girl, making her doubt if her father had once left a Bewitcher love child in the Blood Moon Kingdom.


    ��Lady Blue Rose, we understandpletely.�� Even though Yvaren remained silent, Ashe continued speaking as if to himself, ��Your orders are their fate!��


    Rejoining the Funeral group, Ashe noticed that aside from Little Banjeet, who was busy sucking his fingers, Alice, Annan, and Lise were all looking at him. Annan, however, seemed unsurprised by the events that had just transpired.


    ��You knew this whole time?�� Ashe asked in a hushed voice.


    ��I��ve always said we share amon understanding,�� Annan replied with a smile. ��Even I didn��t expect Igor could pull off something this grand.��


    ��Can someone exin what��s going on?�� Alice, sitting cross-legged on the coffin, scratched her head and asked, ��What happened? And what is thismon understanding?��


    Ashe responded, ��Themon understanding is��why did the Young Lady bring us to Meph?��


    ��Hmm? To escape from Vamora, and���� Alice pondered for a moment, ��To prepare for the uing ranking list?��


    ��Although we were immediately captured by Yvaren due to the Family Ranking, even without the Family Ranking, my fugitive status could have been used as leverage by Yvaren to propose a trade for our stay in exchange for protection,�� Ashe then looked at Annan. ��In other words, the Young Lady likely foresaw what would happen before bringing us to Meph��because she knows Belldate well, and also understands Yvaren.��


    ��She knew Yvaren would try to turn us against each other and even anticipated that Yvaren would ultimately betray us.��


    ��So, what was the true purpose of bringing us to Meph?��


    Lise immediately replied, ��To have us experience being turned and betrayed!��


    ��More precisely, to have us step into Yvaren��s trap,�� Ashe continued. ��The Young Lady deliberately avoided discussing the relevant details with us, watching us walk step by step into Yvaren��s snare�� while ignorance made us easy prey, it also served as our camouge.��


    ��In a world where the Gospel can detect lies, only the ignorant can lie convincingly.�� The Cult Leader turned to the Purple Moth. ��Igor may not have guessed that the third ranking list would be the Ranking of Schemes, but from the Young Lady��s actions, he caught onto the key element of this trip to Meph��actively stepping into Yvaren��s trap, and then using our ignorance to deceive Yvaren in return!��


    Pretend to be fooled by Yvaren, only to turn around and fool Yvaren?


    Lise and Alice both looked at Annan in bewilderment, as if to ask, ��Why go to such lengths?�� and ��Are you out of your mind?��


    Annan shrugged, ��I wasn��t intentionally hiding anything, but if you couldn��t figure out even that much, you wouldn��t have been recognized by the Ranking of Schemes.��


    ��Actually, I didn��t n on you deceiving Yvaren��that was a bonus. In my view, as long as you realized I was hiding something, the Ranking of Schemes would judge that you had the potential of a Con Artist. Clearly, only Igor passed that test.��


    ��However, I thought Igor might swindle a bit of money or something. I didn��t expect he��d aim to swallow Belldate whole���� She spread her hands helplessly. ��So, what does he need us to do?��


    ��Bullying with power,�� Ashe pointed to the spellcasters squirming on the ground behind them.


    Annan quickly caught on, ��Brilliant�� this way, all their hatred will be focused on Belldate. Even if we escape, they��ll assume Belldate is hiding us!��


    ��Sounds like my kind of job,�� Alice stretchedzily. ��Just as long as we don��t kill them, right?��


    ��Lise isn��t good at bullying people,�� the white-haired girl scratched her head.


    Ashe picked up Little Banjeet, ��Here, use this water gun. It will definitely leave a heavy impact on their young minds.��


    ��Does Senhaeser need to join too?�� Annan suddenly asked.


    Ashe nced at her, ��One Belldate is enough to attract all the hatred. Do you really want to bring in Senhaeser too?��


    Annan realized her mistake��Senhaeser insisting on protecting them earlier had already drawn enough ire. If they now showed preferential treatment to Senhaeser, it would only confirm that Belldate, Senhaeser, and Funeral were all in cahoots.


    That wouldn��t do. All the hatred of the Gospel Kingdom should be directed at Belldate, not scattered to include Senhaeser.


    As the Funeral group approached the spellcasters, Rein and the others felt a sense of impending doom.


    ��What are you nning to�� Ah!��


    ��You�� I��m a Sanctuary spellcaster����


    ��Urgh����


    The Funeral team hadn��t intended to be overly violent, but this group had spent the entire night hunting, ambushing, and terrorizing them, even trying to separate and imprison them until just moments ago. If it hadn��t been for Igor��sst-minute turnaround, Ashe and hispanions would now be scattered and separated�� Thinking of this, even though they didn��t go all out, their spirits seemed eager to work overtime on their own.


    ��This is the fate of those who offend Belldate!��


    ��Howl, scream, repent!��


    ��If you��re happy and you know it, p your hands~��


    The scene grew increasingly brutal, but with the Healing Miracle in ce, as long as the spellcasters didn��t die, they could be healed. Therefore, Ashe let them continue.


    After doubling up with Substitute to bully and beat several of their pursuers, Ashe felt invigorated and began seeking a new target, but his foot unexpectedly bumped into a soft body.


    Looking down, Ashe locked eyes with Qenna, whoy sprawled on the ground. Despite being pinned, Qenna remained proud and cold, showing no sign of panic. Ashe, however, instinctively avoided her gaze.


    Wasn��t this Annan��s area? Ashe turned to see Annan had skipped over Qenna and was now putting on a show of reprimanding her Auntie.


    In a moment of realization, Ashe understood Annan��s dilemma. Despite Purple Moth usually speaking of her mother through gritted teeth, now given the chance to openly beat Qenna, Annan chickened out, leaving the mess for Ashe to handle.


    What a troublesome mother-daughter pair.


    ��Ashe,�� Qenna said calmly, ��do you dare touch me?��


    ��Why wouldn��t I?�� Ashe snapped, sitting down on her. ��I��ve been annoyed with you for a long time. Don��t forget, in the Future Ranking, you��re just my servant!��


    ��For disrespecting me!�� p!


    ��For not calling me master!�� p!


    ��For not wearing my ring!�� p!


    Qenna watched as his hand iled in front of her face, her hair tousled by the gust of wind but not a single strikending on her nose. Instead, Ashe��s Substitute was the one pping its own thigh to mimic the sound of ps.


    ��I am wearing it,�� Qenna suddenly said.


    Ashe was startled and looked down to see that Qenna was indeed wearing the Mist Spirit Ring. He had thought that such a symbolic and humiliating future reward would be resisted by the patriarchs, especially since most of them were Sanctuary spellcasters. The ring��s effect meant little to them, and wearing it was simply too disgraceful.


    Just as Ashe averted his gaze, Qenna suddenly opened her mouth and bit his finger. Ashe was shocked and thought he was about to be counterattacked. However, perhaps because of the mental domination she was under, Qenna��s bite was weak and feeble, causing no pain��it felt more like his finger was just being held in her mouth.


    Noticing that Annan seemed to be looking his way, Ashe had a stroke of genius and, with his left hand, decided to put on a show: ��How dare you bite my finger! Let go! You��ll pay for this! Tonight, I��ll show you who the master really is!��


    p! p! p! p!


    His Substitute pped its own thigh with loud sound effects.


    On the second-floor garden of Belldate��s main residence, the door to Yvaren��s office quietly opened, and a red-haired girl in a butler��s uniform entered.


    Behind the desk sat Igor Bukin, the future revitalizer of the Four Pirs Cult, the first Con Artist certified by the Gospel, and the imminent equal of the ��Ghost King Harvey����a human natural disaster. He sat with his eyes closed, leaning back in his chair, as if taking a nap.


    ��Sorry, have you been waiting long?�� Anfel asked.


    ��No,�� Igor shook his head.

 Chapter 413: Igors Debt

    Chapter 413: Igors Debt


    The two conversed with phrases that resembled a couple on a date, but they were neither a couple nor was there any agreement between them.


    ��Congrattions, Mr. Igor,�� Anfel pulled out a chair and gracefully sat across from the Con Artist.


    ��What��s there to congratte about being number one on the Ranking of Schemes?��


    Igor rubbed his temples and said, ��Now the entire Gospel isparing me to Harvey. I��ve even heard people in Meph saying that the ��Rust Crow�� and the ��Ghost King�� are the gatekeepers of Doomsday�� Some even think I��m more valuable because only Harvey can inherit the legacy of the Necromancy Angel, but the Ritual knowledge I��ll possess in the future is core technology that everyone can use.��


    ��Speaking of which, does Gospel have aint hotline? I really want toin about itsck of user-friendly experience.�� Igor sighed, resting his face on his hand. ��Schemes that get exposed �� are they still schemes? Can a revealed mystery still make peopleugh?��


    ��Can��t they?�� Anfel retorted.


    Igor stared at the red-haired girl, a slight smile ying on his lips. ��Of course�� they can.��


    ��The only insight I��ve gained in my career is that there are far too many fools in this world and not enough con artists. The only lesson humans have learned from history is that they never learn any lesson.��


    ��Whether a good reputation or a bad one, reputation itself is a scarce resource; how you use it is up to you. Now everyone knows I��m a master of schemes. Subconsciously, they��ll refuse to believe my words. By slightly exploiting this cognitive bias, I can set countless traps for my enemies.����Even if they already know the future schemes, it won��t enhance their wisdom; it will turn into their ��stupidity.�� As long as I slightly change the question format, these test-takers who can��t apply one concept to another will fall into my traps just as easily��because the essence of fraud is not ��information asymmetry,�� but ��desire.����


    ��Increase what they desire, gift what they need.�� Igor said with genuine appreciation, ��I am truly fortunate to havee to Meph, to Belldate. If not for this journey, I wouldn��t have such a clear understanding of my path.��


    Anfel blinked, ��You really like this principle of the Dominance Sect?��


    ��It��s too narrow, too short-sighted,�� Igor smiled and waggled his finger, ��This is not only the core of the Dominance Sect but also a summary of societal rules, and indeed thews of the world��s operation.��


    ��Though the societal systems of Blood Moon and Gospel are vastly different, they boil down to these two sentences: incite the people��s desires and then hand over the means of production to them. Ultimately, social operation is merely the ruling ss defrauding the lower level popce and plundering the value of their production. It��s just that fraud is beautified into political tforms, and plunder is hidden within imperceptible gears of operation.��


    ��The Virtual Realm is no different; spellcasters spend their whole lives striving, and in the end, all their wisdom bes nourishment for the Virtual Realm�� What scythe is sharper than death? Who��s harvest is more thorough than the Virtual Realm��s? Con artists like me who still need to speak are actually third-rate; true fraud doesn��t require words and has always existed, with countless intelligent people dedicating themselves to it over millennia.��


    ��The desire society taps into is ��a better life,�� and the Virtual Realm incites the desire for ��greater power,�� but fundamentally, they both use the same thing to deceive living beings.�� Igor raised a finger, ��And that is ��the future.����


    ��For the sake of the future, anyone is willing to give up everything.��


    ��The Rust Crow understands this, which is why he is invincible, fooling all beings and toying with Gospel.�� Igor sped his hands together and smiled, ��Although I��m still not the Rust Crow, by observing the Ranking of Schemes, my theoretical knowledge is sufficient. All Ick now is practical experience.��


    ��I have no doubt that Mr. Igor will attain the heights seen in the Ranking of Schemes,�� Anfel said. ��But my congrattions are not for the fame, future knowledge, or material rewards that the Ranking of Schemes brings to you. It��s because, with the Ranking of Schemes�� exnation, you don��t have to worry about being misunderstood.��


    ��Isn��t it true that you��re actually very grateful to the Gospel?�� Anfel blinked, ��Gospel is your best witness.��


    Igor��s smile faded as he calmly looked at Anfel.


    ��Are you here to stop me?��


    ��How could I? I don��t have that capability.�� Anfel shook her head. ��I��m not even a spellcaster.��


    ��However, you��re not going to meet Yvarenter, although she has many questions she wants to ask you. So, I��m here to ask on her behalf.��


    ��Fine,�� Igor said. ��I also have questions. How about we take turns��one question for each of us?��


    ��A fair trade,�� Anfel nodded. ��Yvaren has plenty of questions, but what she most wants to know is how Mr. Igor managed to seize the highest authority of Belldate?��


    Without a doubt, Igor��s betrayal this time has pushed Belldate into a cesspit, leaving them covered in filth that can��t be washed away.


    Because everyone in the Gospel knows that the core technology of the Dominance Sect belongs to Belldate.


    Now, as long as the Funeral group escapes, everyone will think that Belldate is harboring them, no matter how much Yvaren tries to rify.


    If she ims that ��Igor seized Belldate��s highest authority�� and expects people to believe it, it would be like Harvey saying he found a live-in girlfriend��everyone��s response would be, ��You must be deceiving the Gospel (girlfriend), right?��


    Your family has ruled the city with this core technology for hundreds of years, and the only mistake in hundreds of years just happens to ur in this instance?


    Who��s going to believe that?


    Even if Gospel says you��re right, people will construct a thousand conspiracy theories to prove you��re wrong!


    And taking it a step further, even if Igor is 99% in the wrong, does that mean Yvaren ispletely meless?


    It takes two to tango��why didn��t Igor target other families?


    Belldate must also be at fault!


    Moreover, Yvaren indeed has a fault��if she hadn��t tried to control the spellcasters of the eight major families, this mess wouldn��t have urred.


    Regardless, the eight families are doomed, the only difference being whether they suffer under Yvaren��s draining control or get directly crushed by Igor.


    ��The first day I arrived at the manor, I noticed the sheer number of statues here��it felt excessive, and the variety seemed�� incrediblyprehensive,�� Igor said. ��Given that I��m a mental spellcaster, I began to wonder�� Could these be containers for storing mental energy?��


    ��Yvaren is merely a two-wings spellcaster; her soul cannot bear the mental energy of millions. Moreover, the Dominance Sect has been part of your family��s heritage for so long, there must be a mechanism so foolproof that even an idiot could use it.��


    ��The reason there are so many types of statues is to amodate different individuals, ideally funneling simr mental energies into the same statue, then purifying and eliminating the waste.��


    Anfel nodded. ��I��ve heard that most of the statues used to depict farmers in simple clothes, but now they mostly representpany employees in formal attire.��


    ��Then, I asked the Gospel where the statue most simr to me was located.�� At this point, Igor looked a bit exasperated. ��Whether it was a glitch with the Gospel or an issue with your family��s sorting mechanism, it determined that the statue most simr to me was a Bewitcher pdin.��


    Anfel covered her mouth with a giggle. ��I think it fits quite well.��


    ��So, I conducted many experiments next to the statue,�� Igor continued. ��Most of them were futile; mental miracles had no effect on the statue��until����


    ��I used bell points.��


    Anfel made a sound of realization. ��Ah, I see.��


    ��After using bell points, while performing internal observation, I noticed a wisp of my mental energy being transferred into the statue,�� Igor exined. ��It was such a minuscule amount that it was nearly imperceptible. The next second, my mental energy recovered, and I even suspected it was just my imagination.��


    ��Then, I delved deeper and discovered that whether I used 1 bell point or 100 bell points, the loss of mental energy was the same. Meaning, this mechanism wasn��t about extracting energy��it was about�� connection.��


    ��The statues are the base stations, individuals are the terminals, and the mode of connection is bell points.��


    ��I previously wondered why your family went to the trouble of using ��bell points�� as currency. You don��t need virtual currency for profit, after all.�� Igor looked down at the Gospel Book. ��It wasn��t until that moment that I realized, ��bell points�� weren��t for the convenience of the public; they were for your family. Simultaneously, bell points are also your family��s most secure safeguard.��


    ��The highest authority is crucial, but not every patriarch of Belldate is a smart person. How do you guarantee that Belldate��s authority won��t be deceived by outsiders? It can��t be physical, it can��t be a secret code, it can��t be a spirit�� Your ancestors came up with an ingenious answer.��


    ��A virtual currencypletely controlled by your family: bell points.��


    ��The act of ��spending bell points�� itself is a domination miracle!�� Igor��s tone was full of admiration. ��The specific operation is��if you can pay off a debtor��s debt, you can dominate the debtor��s pledged cognitive power!��


    ��Everyone��s price is the amount of their debt!��


    ��There��s no such thing as the highest authority. The person who can throw out the most bell points at any moment holds the highest authority. But undoubtedly, the patriarch of Belldate, who has nearly unlimited bell points, possesses the financial power to dominate all debtors!��


    ��There��s another interesting aspect of the design: only those with debt can activate this system. So, if outsiders dare to touch the domination system, they��ll first have to be debtors of Belldate�� it��s like delivery right to your doorstep.��


    ��But this design also applies to the patriarch of Belldate. In other words, the patriarch too has a price.�� Igor nced at the window, as if he could see Yvaren looking out from afar. ��So, to counteract this, the patriarch of Belldate only needs to incur a debt so high that no one can possibly afford it. For instance����


    ��1 billion.��


    He paused. ��Per minute.��


    Anfel tilted her head and asked, ��But�� Mr. Igor, you��re not exactly wealthy, are you?��


    ��I��m not wealthy, but Yvaren thoughtfully provided us with Bell-Pay and gave us a very high limit.�� Igor spread open his Gospel Book. ��Conveniently, it��s one billion.��


    ��But I have to say, over the centuries, you��ve made no technical innovations, not even a safeguard mechanism against retrieval. I actively used ��Bell-Pay�� to borrow, spending 1 bell point, 2 bell points, 3 bell points�� Through different numbers of transactions, after seven consecutive retrievals from the mental wave I emitted, I identified the signal that modifies the limit.��


    ��This is the only technically sophisticated operation in this scheme��I hacked Bell-Pay. Although my usage of Bell-Pay still leaves a record, as it��s managed by the Gospel��s financial system, and I can��t actually steal any money. But no matter how many bell points I spend, it won��t reduce my borrowing limit.��


    ��In other words����


    Igor turned his Gospel Book toward Anfel. ��I can now incur a debt of one billion and spend one billion every second.��


    Anfel looked down and saw Igor��s debt skyrocketing by the second on his Gospel Book, yet the Con Artist himself seemed unbothered.


    ��Yvaren doesn��t lose without reason.�� The red-haired girl sighed. ��You havepletely unraveled the secret of Belldate��s control.��


    ��In the domination system, those who borrow against their own future are the dominated; while those who borrow against the futures of millions are the dominators.��

 Chapter 414: Shiny

    ��It��s my turn to ask questions.�� Igor carefully chose his words, ��Miss Anfel, are you the one responsible for�� um, cleansing the mental energy?��


    Anfel cut straight to the point: ��You��re wondering if I��m the container that stores the ��impurities,�� right? Yes, I am.��


    Igor gasped.


    Ever since he heard that Belldate could harness the cognitive power of millions of people and absorb their mental energy, as a mental spellcaster, Igor had a massive question-wasn��t the Belldate patriarch afraid of being poisoned?


    In the realm of mental arts, any thought other than ��I�� is a chronic poison. Schizophrenics are the prime example. Their own clean and hygienic personalities can poison them, let alone someone else��s thoughts.


    It��s one thing for a day or two, but if you��re immersed in other people��s thoughts for a long time, it will inevitably cause mental fatigue, skewed self-recognition, and bipr disorder.


    Actually, Belldate��s domination mechanism of ��from the debtor, used for the debtor�� isn��t an earth-shattering idea, nor is it patented exclusively by the Necromancy Angel. So why haven��t other domination spellcasters done this before? Why is Belldate the sole proprietor in all of Gospel?


    Because mental energy, consciousness, and thoughts are an inseparable trinity.


    Just like how hitting the jackpot makes you exhrated, and being constipated makes you gloomy, human thoughts directly affect mental fluctuations. Mental energy is filled with all sorts of thoughts and ideas, like a fruit pulp orange juice. The mental energy Belldate absorbs is surely full of ��thought impurities.�� Using this mental energy directly is no different from drinking poison to quench your thirst or eating shit to stave off hunger.If there��s a wolf pack domination spellcaster who tries to mimic Belldate by absorbing the mental energy of a wolf pack to control the wolves, his only fate would be to turn into a wolf with human skin. He would be polluted and assimted by countless wolf thoughts until he forgets his own identity.


    Thus, domination spellcasters are undoubtedly single-way broadcasters; they would never absorb the mental energy of their subjects. Even L Fatty wouldn��t dare take it lightly.


    Conversely, the fact that Belldate dares to absorb the mental energy of intelligent creatures means they have a mechanism to ��purify impurities.�� Indeed, Igor��s biggest suspect was the statues. Storing mental energy is one thing, but if a piece of stone can filter out active thoughts, Igor might as well suggest adding healthcare functions to the statues��how could a mere stone creation possess suchprehensive capabilities?


    It wasn��t until Igor noticed that Anfel had no regr work and spent her days wandering around the manor, touching this statue and that statue, that he felt as if the answer was presenting itself just like the solution to a fill-in-the-nk question.


    The Con Artist asked, ��So, your special ability as a container is that you can read anyone��s thoughts?��


    Anfel shook her head. ��I can��t read thoughts. If I could, Yvaren wouldn��t have been deceived by you�� I can just be the version of myself that everyone likes.��


    She slowly closed her eyes, her expression serene. ��I can listen to countless thoughts, understand countless preferences, and perceive countless secrets�� No matter who stands before me, I can pull a persona simr to them from my database; in fact, they might already be in my database.��


    ��Have you ever seen a Mimosa? When you touch it, it shyly closes its leaves. I��m like that Mimosa. I don��t do it on purpose, but whoever stands before me, I will unconsciously adapt to their most favored personality.��


    Curious, Igor asked, ��So what would you be like if you had to interact with both me and Ashe simultaneously?��


    Anfel replied, ��When chatting in a group, I find the ovepping areas and show the sides you both like; when conversing one-on-one, I switch to a specific personality.��


    ��And what about you?�� Igor asked. ��What does the real you think?��


    ��I can listen to countless thoughts,�� Anfel answered, leaving it at that.


    But she could never listen to her own thoughts.


    Anfel was like a mirror, reflecting everyone��s most liked side but unable to show her own image.


    However, Igor had to admit that conversing with Anfel was indeed very pleasant. He naturally enjoyed discussions that involved only key intelligence, leaving the conclusions to be inferred by himself. It gave his brain just the right amount of exercise.


    Within the Funeral, Igor found the mostfortablemunication with Annan, followed by Banjeet and Lise (the mature version). At the bottom were, unsurprisingly, those two artiodact members who could barely understand conclusions unless spelled out in the simplest terms.


    ��Now it��s my turn to ask,�� Anfel said, pouring two cups of hot tea and handing one over. ��Why did you deceive Belldate, Mr. Igor?��


    ��The Dominance Sect knowledge of Belldate,�� said Igor, without hiding his criminal intentions. ��Also, I needed Belldate to attract other people��s hatred so we could continue our escape.��


    Even without the ��Ranking of Schemes,�� the ��Family Ranking�� alone was enough to make everyone in Funeral a despised group stirring up trouble.


    Recently, Igor had been trying to figure out how to reduce the pressure on Funeral. But given Funeral��s rock-bottom reputation, the stress would only increase until the day they disbanded. So he changed his approach��if a financial storm is inevitable, why not distribute its impact to reduce personal loss?


    This is why he foundmon ground with Yvaren. Yvaren wanted to dominate other family elite members, and Igor not only fully cooperated but also executed the n to the end. Sure, Ashe might be Belldate��s dog, but so are all of you!


    ��Come on, if you want to beat the dog, you��ll have to step over its master��s body first!��


    Even if Yvaren didn��t want to take the me quietly, would she just stand there and get hit back when others retaliate?


    This back-and-forth was enough to divert considerable fire away from Funeral.


    ��Is that all?��


    ��Not quite.�� Igor swirled his tea. ��There are many reasons. For example, it was Annan��s implication, or�� but the biggest reason is, I wanted to.��


    ��You wanted to?��


    ��Deceiving a patriarch richer than countries, orchestrating a farce involving Sanctuary spellcasters, and then shifting all the me onto you guys���� The Con Artist shrugged. ��Such an exciting and entertaining project, even withoutpensation, I would probably take part in it enthusiastically.��


    ��Yvaren would be furious if she heard this,�� Anfel said with a smile, sipping her tea.


    ��My second question,�� Igor said, ��why do Yvaren�� no, why do all the Belldate patriarchs be cold and ruthless people?��


    Anfel set down her teacup, ncing at a portrait in the office. ��Yvaren didn��t be cold and ruthless; she just had her emotions�� diluted.��


    The red-haired girl looked at the Con Artist. ��Since you��ve tried dominating others, you surely understand why Yvaren became this way.��


    Igor rubbed his temples. ��So, it��s because of manipting mental energy?��


    The mental energy of millions is a quantity sufficient to cause a qualitative change. Each time the Belldate patriarch initiates a domination Miracle, they need to mobilize this ��mental sea.�� Over time and with repeated use, even though the mental sea has been purified, it still causes irreversible effects on the patriarch.


    To illustrate, a normal person��s mental energy is like sugar water. Anfel has absorbed the sweetness of millions, so she has be overwhelmingly sweet, losing her own unique vor and exuding whatever sweetness others like. Yvaren, on the other hand, each time she performs a domination Miracle, has to dissolve herself into the water of millions, diluting her own sweetness to the point where she��s as nd as water.


    ��Mr. Igor, how did you realize there was something wrong with Yvaren?�� Anfel asked. ��Sheughs and talks like anyone else, gets angry and happy. How could you tell she��s cold and ruthless?��


    ��Is that your third question?��


    ��Oh, can��t you just let me have a freebie?�� Anfel winked. ��But sure, let��s call it that.��


    ��There are many reasons,�� Igor replied. ��She speaks highly of her rtionship with Annan but shows no mercy when dealing with her. She ims to fear the revenge of the Eight Great Families, yet she acts decisively. There��s a clear distinction between her emotions and her rationality. She does have feelings, but they never affect her decisions. It��s a textbook example of a rational person.��


    ��But the main reason, actually, is because she wanted to set me up on a blind date with you.��


    Anfel blinked. ��Oh?��


    ��Before Annan came to Meph, Yvaren always lived in the manor. There were only her servants there, no friends, no lovers, and no sex life. In such a situation, her only mental sce should have been her sister. Yet, to pull me in, she entrusted her sister to a stranger she��d known for just a few days from an exotd?��


    ��Trust should only be given to those who deserve it,�� Igor said. ��After Yvaren did something so seemingly human, I knew she didn��t truly care about you. Her heart is filled with ck, festering blood.��


    ��That��s a bit excessive, Mr. Igor,�� Anfel frowned slightly. ��And besides, why aren��t you someone worthy of trust?��


    ��Haven��t I proven it with my actions?�� Igor pointed to his still-mounting debt.


    ��If you could be part of Belldate, wouldn��t that make you worthy?�� Anfel tilted her head. ��And Yvaren did genuinely want to find a suitable partner for me. Among you all, Mr. Igor, aren��t you the most suitable?��


    ��Impossible,�� Igor said. ��Isn��t Ashe more suitable than me?��


    ��Is he?��


    ��Of course.�� Igor ran his finger along the edge of the teacup. ��Although he��szy, stupid, and vulgar, with no redeeming qualities other than avoiding rain when it��s pouring and not getting lost, living with him would make one feel that no obstacle is insurmountable. Even a bad mood would be noticed instantly,�� Igor nced at Anfel. ��And as for me, except when dealing with clients, my favorite pastime is finding superiority through belittling others�� intelligence. My partners all found me too harsh; they��d rather die than work with me��so they died.��


    ��By choosing someone as gloomy as me over the sparkling Ashe, do you really think she cares about you? I don��t believe it.��


    ��Hmm���� Anfel rested her chin in her hand. ��I have something to say, but I��m not sure if I should����


    ��You shouldn��t,�� Igor interrupted. ��I have onest question��are the two of you bearing separate costs of domination to resist the ancestor��s call?��


    Anfel��s lips parted slightly. She pped her hands andughed, ��Incredible, Mr. Igor! How did you figure that out? Yes, that��s exactly the reason!��


    Since seeing the Belldate Family topping the Family Ranking, Igor had been deeply puzzled��why would the Angel of Necromancy, who clearly wanted resurrection, not train his descendants to be suitable vessels for his revival? Why would he instead forbid them from entering his tomb?


    Isn��t that unnecessarilyplicating things?


    It��s nonsense to suggest that the Angel of Necromancy cherished his descendants; even Harvey certified that the Angel of Necromancy was an unoriginal necromancer who had no regard for life. And a self-preserving spellcaster would not harbor so many scruples.


    So, it had to be the other way around��the Angel of Necromancy wasn��t refusing his descendants�� inheritance; rather, his descendants were constantly avoiding their ancestor��s schemes!


    Following this logic, the Angel of Necromancy would definitely transform his descendants into ideal vessels for possession. So, what kind of vessel would be most suitable for a revival?


    First, it should have a highly active mind butck personal will.


    Second, it should have an abundant mental energy but be devoid of personal emotions.


    And ideally, it should have vast personal wealth to allow the Angel of Necromancy to quickly regain his former power.


    Anfel could listen to the thoughts of countless people but had lost her personal will, bing Yvaren��s perfect tool��a mindless entity.


    Yvaren could mobilize immense mental energy but had diluted her personal emotions, morphing into a cold, unfeeling rationalist��a heartless entity.


    Putting these two together, a being without heart and mind, wouldn��t that be the perfect vessel for the Angel of Necromancy to possess?


    ��In other words, Harvey isn��t ungrateful���� Igor said. ��When he imed he wanted to give the Belldate Family eternal rest, he truly just wanted to free you from your fate�� I��m done asking.��


    Actually, Igor still had many questions: Why does the Belldate Family insist on inheriting the Dominance Sect? Why haven��t they tried to kill the Angel of Necromancy instead? Why are they bearing such a fate without fighting back? But considering that this fate was a scheme devised by the Angel of Necromancy for his resurrection and that the Belldate Family could split the burden among siblings, their ancestors truly had done their best��


    ��It��s my turn to ask thest question,�� Anfel said.


    But just at that moment, the bookmark in their Gospel Book glowed, indicating that the update for the Ranking of Schemes had finally beenpleted for the night-


    ��Igor Bukin receives the reward ��Kingdom Coin.����


    ��Kingdom Coin: While holding this coin, your personal will cannot be altered, twisted, or eroded in any way and remains pristine.��


    Igor fiddled with the hot, new coin in his hand and asked, ��What do you want to ask?��


    ��I was going to ask, Mr. Igor, given all your debts and the theoretical need to share 99.9% of your thoughts, how you n to resist Yvaren��s domination,�� Anfel shrugged. ��But now I don��t need to.��


    Just because Igor could borrow indefinitely didn��t mean he didn��t owe Belldate money. If Yvaren recovered and cut off his Bell-Pay, Igor would be powerless and at Yvaren��s mercy. However, with the Kingdom Coin from the Future Ranking rewards, Igor wasn��t worried about Yvaren messing with his mind.


    After a moment of thought, Igor flicked the coin away with his thumb.


    ��Catch.��


    Anfel clumsily caught the coin, surprised, as she watched the con artist walk to the window and gaze at the distant crowd.


    ��Mr. Igor?��


    ��It��s yours,�� Igor said calmly. ��There should still be a sliver of self-awareness deep within your soul; use this coin to reim it.��


    ��Why?��


    ��When I made this n, I didn��t count on the reward from the Ranking of Schemes,�� Igor smiled slightly. ��Gifts of fate, I dare not ept lightly.��


    ��Then how will you resist Yvaren��s domination?��


    ��I��ve stolen knowledge from the Dominance Sect and already figured out how to resist your domination. My theoretical framework isplete; I justck practical experience. If Yvaren is willing to spar with me, I would wee it.��


    ��Besides, your domination has its limits. If I go far enough, for Yvaren to mess with my mind, she would have to reveal cards I haven��t yet uncovered. I just want to see who will break first: Yvaren or me mastering Belldate��s Dominance Sect techniquespletely.��


    Igor gazed into the distance where Ashe and the others were, the bright starlight illuminating his handsome face. There was no fear in his eyes, only anticipation for the future.


    Anfel stared at him nkly for a moment, then suddenly said, ��I have something to say, but I��m not sure if I should����


    ��You shouldn��t.��


    ��But I��m going to say it! I just have to say it!��


    Igor nced at her. ��The gold coin��s effect is this obvious?��


    ��Or maybe you just like this kind of girl?�� Anfel smiled warmly. ��I just wanted to say, Mr. Igor, people don��t actually shine or glitter.��


    ��Hmm?��


    ��So, the real sparkle is in the light within your eyes.��

 Chapter 415: The Mischievous Qenna

    ��Please�� don��t����


    ��I��ll do anything you want, just don��t����


    ��No!!��


    With a heart-wrenching wail, the Sanctuary spellcaster Rein Mercury was thrown into the mire. This was no ordinary mire but a replica of the ��Soul-Cleansing Mire�� from a special region of the Time Continent. The original Soul-Cleansing Mire dissolves spiritual impurities, enhancing a spellcaster��s learning ability, focus, and mental state for a week��s time, making it a highly desirable adventure mechanism.


    However, Belldate��s counterfeit mire didn��t have such beneficial effects. Instead of dissolving spiritual impurities, it dissolved physical impurities��such as clothes and hair.


    No one knew why Belldate had constructed such a seemingly meaningless feature. Perhaps it was a mere attempt to replicate an adventure from the Time Continent, or maybe it was a frivolous expenditure of excess wealth to stimte domestic demand. Regardless, it undoubtedly provided Ashe and hispanions with significant help��like having a filthy mop conveniently nearby during a brawl.


    After some preliminary pummeling and soaking to render these pursuers temporarily incapacitated, the main course of action ensued: keeping them confined at the Belldate manor, ensuring they had no ability to pursue the Funeral.


    The most extreme method would be to inflict severe injuries or even disfigure them drastically, or to kill all the other Sanctuary spellcasters. This would guarantee they couldn��t pursue, even after recovery. However, their pent-up hatred would inevitably be directed at Belldate, and the ensuing internal conflict would drain the resources of these consortium families.


    But Ashe and his team ultimately discarded this idea.Firstly, negative reputations have different levels; ��dislike�� and ��mortal enemy�� are fundamentally different concepts. If these consortium families had previously been devoting 20% of their resources to counter the Funeral, after such brutal treatment from Ashe and his team, it might escte to 70%, creating an even more perilous situation for them.


    Secondly, there was still Lise to consider.


    Among the adults present, there��s no need to mention Annan and Banjeet from the Firm��the term ��unscrupulous�� doesn��t even begin to capture their modus operandi; Harvey also isn��t worth mentioning, as this backward world doesn��t have moralws capable of binding him; Ashe, having been through so much and practically bing shoulder pain buddies with the Reaper, had long mentally prepared himself and wouldn��t hesitate when dirty work was required.


    But as long as Lise was around, Ashe could never just stand by and watch the narrative turn dark and grim.


    However��


    Ashe looked at the utter despair on the faces of those in the mire. Their hair and clothes had been dissolved, leaving them bald and soaking in the dung-colored muck. This scene of abject filth was enough to challenge anyone��s sanity, Lise��s included. Even Ashe felt the need for a sanity check just looking at it.


    The results, though, were remarkable. Rein and Zuvendas, along with the other Sanctuary spellcasters, would be too embarrassed to show themselves without spending hours bathing and regrowing their hair.


    ��Stop looking, Lise. Let��s go see that beautifuldy.��


    ��Huh?�� Lise seemed a bit reluctant. ��I think this is quite interesting too����


    ��Harvey!�� Ashe called out to Alice, ��Have you been a bad influence on Lise?!��


    ��Do you know that there��s a whole intestine between the stomach and the feces? Don��t me everything on me,�� Alice retorted. ��Children are naturally fascinated by filth; it��s adults who have a pretentious obsession with cleanliness.��


    ��Who would understand that!��


    After taking care of the male spellcasters, the next task was the female spellcasters��who were spared the ordeal of soaking in the mire and losing their hair and clothes.


    It wasn��t because Ashe and his team were showing favoritism; they just needed a reason to spare the Family of Six Heraldry. Conveniently, most of the individuals Qenna had brought were female spellcasters, making it less suspicious to let them go.


    Although Qenna had ultimatelye to capture them, she had shown willingness to fight other forces to protect them when pressured by Rein and the other Sanctuary spellcasters. Even if her actions were partially selfish, Ashe and Annan still felt obliged to acknowledge her effort.


    The only person qualified to object was Harvey, but just as he didn��t care that Qenna hadn��t stood up for him earlier, he didn��t mind Ashe and the others sticking up for Qenna now.


    However, they couldn��t let Qenna and her group off too easily. Fortunately, besides the mire, there was also a pool of liquor nearby. Though it was called a liquor pool, it was filled with sweet alcoholic beverages. Ashe had asionally helped himself to a cup while passing by.


    Dunking the female spellcasters into the liquor pool would not only soak their clothes but also cover them in sticky, sugary alcohol. These pampered Gospel spellcasters would be desperate to take a bath after regaining their mobility.


    Lise and Little Banjeet efficiently coordinated to carry a female spellcaster and deposit her into the liquor pool. Ashe followed suit, directing his Substitute to toss the spellcasters into the pool.


    Soon, Ashe encountered a particrly challenging individual��Qenna. Tossing your own mother into the pool would require the daughter to step up, but Annan was currently deep in a conversation with Nona by the poolside, clearly avoiding Qenna.


    Humans are indeed peculiar. Annan was bold enough to confront Qenna when she was strong and domineering, but now that Qenna appeared vulnerable, Annan chose to keep her distance. Perhaps the only way Annan could interact with Qenna was through ��rebellion�� and ��suppression.�� When Qenna was no longer able to suppress her, the Young Lady didn��t know how to handle the rtionship with her mother.


    Since Annan was unwilling to deal with it, someone else had to step in. Scratching his head, Ashe instructed the Substitute to move Qenna. Given that this act would directly offend a Sanctuary spellcaster, it was better for the Substitute to handle it.


    However, as soon as the Substitute reached out, Qenna bit down hard on its hand, forcing it to withdraw quickly.


    The Substitute looked back at Ashe. In situations where the male spellcasters offered heavy resistance, it typically grabbed their legs, spun them around, and hurled them into the mire. But that method wouldn��t do here; embarrassing Qenna like that was out of the question since they were intending to let her go.


    Reluctantly, Ashe stepped forward, reaching out to lift Qenna. ��Come on, be good. Don��t struggle, I��ll just��umm!��


    She was heavy.


    Qenna was not only taller than Ashe but also well-built from frequent exercise. Given that she wasn��t supporting her own weight at all, her body was incredibly difficult to carry. Anyone who has ever tried to lift an inebriated person knows there��s a stark difference in weight between someone actively cooperating and someonepletely limp.


    ��You need to use the physical Spirit to build up some strength,�� Qenna seemed to mock. ��If you struggle this much to carry me in the future, it��ll really kill the mood.��


    What kind of situation would require me to carry you in the future?�� Ashe pondered.


    ��You��re holding me in a really ufortable way. Tighten your grip and let me move my arms,�� Qennamanded unceremoniously. Ashe had no choice but to follow her instructions. The Elf patriarch subtly shifted her graceful body, redistributing her weight onto Ashe��s torso, which instantly eased the burden on his arms.


    However, this left Qenna��s head almost resting on Ashe��s shoulder, making it look like the two were whispering secrets to each other.


    And as a matter of fact, they were.


    ��Come back to Vamora with me,�� she whispered softly. ��You have no escape route left.��


    ��You��ll need to discuss this with your daughter.��


    ��The more I say, the less Annan does,�� Qenna chuckled. ��But you can persuade her, can��t you? After all, you are my daughter��s�� fianc��.��


    Because they were so close, Qenna��s breath tickled Ashe��s earlobe, making him feel a bit itchy. ��Sorry to disappoint, but I lied to you. Annan and I actually have no such rtionship.��


    ��Uh-huh,�� Qenna didn��t seem to mind. ��But she values your opinion, I can tell. Do you really want to keep wandering aimlessly with her? Don��t you want a stable life?��


    ��Six Heraldry can no longer protect us����


    ��They can,�� Qenna asserted with a demonstrative grind of her teeth. ��If I say they can, then they can.��


    ��But I don��t want to go to Vamora,�� Ashe turned his head to look at her. They were so close that their noses almost touched, their eyes reflecting each other��s expressions. ��I hate Vamora.��


    This seemed to catch Qenna off guard. ��Why?��


    ��I dislike Vamora��s white mist, its Beauty Houttuynia Farm, and its indulgent lifestyle,�� Ashe replied.


    ��What do you like then? The mary domination of Belldate? Or other city models?�� Qenna seemed amused. ��The Vamora model already considers everyone, allowing all nsmen to lead a happy life. Even Meph can��t achieve that�� is there any city better than Vamora?��


    ��Maybe there isn��t a city better than Vamora,�� Ashe said. ��And maybe there��s no city I like within the Gospel Kingdom.��


    ��Then why����


    ��But that doesn��t mean I have to choose the least disliked option.�� Ashe crouched down and slowly lowered Qenna into the liquor pool. ��Qenna, you know, I��m someone who tends to settle for things. If I stayed in Vamora, I��d probably be one of your nsmen. So, I can��t help you persuade Annan, because I need Annan to dash ahead with me until we find a ce we can retire�� or until we attain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.��


    ��But I will convey your care to Annan,�� Ashe smiled. ��When I visit Vamora next time, I hope you can still wee me.��


    ��Don��t worry about that. I��ll definitely capture you all first. Then we��ll meet every day and night.��


    ��Then I��ll look forward to it without much anticipation.��


    By this time, Qenna��s waist was already submerged in the liquor pool. She said, ��Oh, I have one more thing to tell you. Come closer����


    Unsuspecting, Ashe leaned in. Suddenly, the Elf patriarch twisted her entire body with such momentum that she dragged Ashe into the liquor pool, causing both of them to bob in the alcoholic liquid.


    ��Ugh!�� Ashe supported Qenna by her shoulders, halfughing, half exasperated. ��Are you really getting back at me? Can��t you see that we intentionally let Six Heraldry go?��


    With her wet hair stered to her shoulders, Qenna gazed at him with a hazy look, andughed, ��You��re drenched in liquor.��


    ��It��s all your fault����


    Before Ashe could finish his sentence, Qenna leaned in. With a smooth swipe of her tongue, she licked off the liquor on his face. The warm breath seemed to ignite the alcohol, making Ashe feel like he was burning.


    ��Annan is a very stubborn child,�� she said seriously into Ashe��s ear. ��When necessary, you need to hold her back.��


    What else could Ashe do? He nodded hurriedly, making affirmative sounds as he quickly tried to disengage. Before leaving, he adjusted Qenna��s position to a reclining posture to prevent her nose and mouth from being blocked by the liquid.


    But by doing so, a mesmerizing elven beauty now floated atop the liquor pool. Wet clothes, undting curves, flushed cheeks�� Ashe dared not look too much, lest he identally end up returning to Vamora with Qenna.

 Chapter 416: Shall We Leave Together?

    Back on thewn, Annan looked at the soaked Ashe and said apologetically, ��It must have been tough for you. Qenna is hard to deal with, isn��t she?��


    ��Yeah,�� Ashe wiped his face. ��I almost got sunk�� Are we leaving now?��


    A hovercar was parked on thewn, clearly a taxi Annan had called. The Happy Family Firm had already met its demise here, so they didn��t have to worry about modern transportation suddenly blowing up.


    Annan nodded. ��We need to leave first.��


    ��First?��


    ��Igor said he would stay here to continue suppressing these people, ensuring no one pursues us,�� Annan nced at Yvaren in the distance. ��Once we reach a safe ce, he will leave alone to meet up with us, minimizing the risk.��


    A question mark appeared above Ashe��s head. ��The Bewitcher I know is neither a moral person nor a self-sacrificing figure.��


    Alice said, ��But didn��t he work so hard to resurrect you?��


    ��Putting aside that it was the result of deceiving the Gospel, the more important thing is, I��m not dead right now,�� Ashe shrugged. ��It��s like how I��d risk everything to save Lise if she were in danger, but when she just wants to y, at most, I��d have my Substitute y with her diligently.��Lise was very displeased and kicked Ashe. ��Dad, how can you say that?��


    ��It does seem odd,�� Annan said. ��Igor seems to be deliberately avoiding us.��


    Suddenly understanding, Ashe eximed, ��Could it be����


    Alice pondered, ��Is it possible that he is����


    The Blood Moon escapee made eye contact, already guessing theirrade��s little scheme.


    In this way, they would leave first.


    Igor, no longer observing the outside situation, casually took a book from Yvaren��s shelf. The title read ��The Mischievous Maid.��


    He picked another book, titled ��The Hemophobic Healer and the Self-Harming Physical Spellcaster.��


    Yet another book, ��The Vase Falls in Love.��


    All of them were romance novels, not to mention�� why did they all have one person being straightforward and the other person being evasive?


    Yvaren, your expectations of love seem quite skewed. Even without your emotions diluted by the mental sea, you��d probably remain single for life��


    ��Mr. Igor, aren��t you going to join yourpanions?�� Anfel asked while holding a teacup.


    ��They need to leave first,�� Igor replied calmly. ��Once they reach a safe ce, I��ll leave. This ensures that no one will be able to pursue us. Besides you two sisters, no one else knows I��m at Belldate Manor, making my departure very low-risk.��


    ��Mm-hmm,�� Anfel nodded. ��That makes a lot of sense.��


    ��But actually, Mr. Igor, you��re just too embarrassed to meet them right now, aren��t you?��


    Snap.


    Igor closed the book. ��A Con Artist��s least concern is their dignity.��


    ��When dealing with clients, you certainly don��t need dignity,�� Anfelughed. ��I can understand. It��s quite awkward for you to meet Ashe and the others again after distancing yourself to gain Yvaren��s trust. Although the Ranking of Schemes rifies your stance, showing such an earnest side is probably too embarrassing for you.��


    ��Don��t use such girlish adjectives,�� Igor said coldly. ��And you��re wrong about everything. My arrangement was purely for safety reasons.��


    ��Oh, really? But didn��t you say I��m like a mirror, reflecting everyone��s true self?�� Anfel tilted her head. ��And I��m not guessing. I have evidence. For example, whenever you lie, you like to cover it up with grandiose justifications, just like your reaction when I congratted you for winning first ce on the Ranking of Schemes����


    ��Enough.��


    Igor ced a hand on Anfel��s shoulder, his expression calm, though his breathing was slightly quickened. ��You guessed wrong!��


    The red-haired girl looked intently at the Con Artist, shrugged, and sipped her tea. ��Maybe so~��


    Vroom!


    The sound of a Sports car engine roared outside. Igor seemed slightly relieved but also inexplicably tired. ��They��re finally gone����


    However, the engine sound grew louder and louder, closer and closer, until-


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Bullets riddled the office walls with countless cracks, and a streak of sword light crazily painted upon them!


    Boom!


    The hovercar crashed through the bullet-riddled wall, carving a donut arc in the study, sending sofas, chairs, coffee tables, and decorative cabs flying before it came to a steady stop beside Igor and Anfel.


    ��You����


    The gull-wing car door lifted up. Before the shock could leave Igor��s face, Ashe had already grabbed him and pulled him into the car. Alice quickly wrapped her arms around the Con Artist to prevent his escape, looking like a mobster abducting an innocent Bewitcher.


    ��We heard you were too embarrassed to face us, so we came to watch you make a fool of yourself!�� Asheughed heartily.


    ��I would never��let go of me, Harvey!��


    ��Harvey��s in the coffin; I��m Alice,�� Alice giggled. ��I never thought you��d feel so guilty for deceiving us, Igor. On behalf of Harvey, I forgive you.��


    From the front seat, Lise added, ��I forgive you too, Aunt Bukin! His braiding skills are terrible, it��s a good thing you��re back!��


    ��Who cares about your forgiveness!��


    ��Then whose forgiveness do you care about?��


    Suddenly, Alice turned to Annan. ��Wait a second, by destroying Belldate��s property, aren��t we going to owe money?��


    ��Did you forget we have those 6,000 bell points we were going to use as ransom?�� Annan replied. ��Since we don��t need to pay the ransom, let��s just spend it here.��


    Ashe turned to Anfel, extending his hand naturally. ��Want toe with us?��


    Anfel looked at the lively scene inside the hovercar, where the Purple Moth was tending to the little butler, the white-haired girl was all smiles, and the necromancer was yfully sparring with the Con Artist.


    And��


    The red-haired girl eyed the Cult Leader and smiled slightly. ��Indeed, a shining figure.��


    ��Hmm?��


    ��Sorry, but I��m Mr. Igor��s fianc��e,�� Anfel sped her hands together in a gesture of apology. ��If Mr. Igor is willing to say that to me when hees to Meph, I��ll dly ept.��


    ��Harvey, open the coffin and stuff Igor inside; I don��t want to see any more women falling for him�� boo hoo hoo����


    ��Dad, don��t cry! I don��t need a stepmom right now. I don��t mind if no women like you!��


    ��Lise, thank you! Thank! You!��


    The hovercar roared out through the gaping hole, swiftly ascending into the night sky of Meph. Anfel waved goodbye to them.


    Not long after, Yvaren rushed through the gap into the office. She quickly surveyed the room, noting the absence of anyone else, and turned directly to Anfel. ��What should we do next?��


    Decision-making in Belldate��s family always consisted of two levels: the nners, known as the Thinkers, and the executors, known as the Heartless. The n to manipte the Eight Great Families had been devised by Anfel. She, who could hear countless thoughts, had long since understood the intricacies of human nature, allowing her to design traps that could ignite the desires of countless individuals.


    In the past, Anfel would not have hesitated. But now, she paused.


    The hesitation stemmed from a conflict of interest.


    The conflict wasn��t about Igor or Ashe, but about Harvey.


    To break free from Belldate��s destiny, they needed to resolve the issue of the Necromantic Angel. However, for hundreds of years, no member of Belldate had been able to aplish this. Anfel and Yvaren couldn��t either.


    But now, the person capable of conquering the Necromantic Angel had already appeared in Gospel��s future.


    Before, they were merely tools for the family��s continuation,pletely indifferent to Harvey��s future achievements. But Anfel had now regained a bit of self-awareness. A faint sense of selfishness began to resist the chains of her bloodline!


    Increase what they desire, gift what they need.


    Anfel held the gold coin in her hand, unable to suppress a smile.


    ��Anfel?�� Yvaren asked, somewhat puzzled.


    ��It��s nothing,�� Anfel replied with a smile. ��I just think we should have a cup of tea and rest for a bit.��


    Though Yvaren found it strange, her personal feelings never affected her decision-making, and she was somewhat thirsty. ��Alright.��

 Chapter 417: Blood Moon and Shattered Lake

    Stars Kingdom, 9:30 PM, Gxia National Sports Arena.


    This open-air stadium, built by a legendary spellcaster, requires no additional light sources. By merely gathering and reflecting the starlight, it can make the entire arena as bright as daytime, with the spotlight effect achieved by adjusting the mirrors. At this time, 4,600 seats were filled with students and faculty from the colleges of Gxia. As the smooth arena floor was transformed into a shallow ground by the Miracle of Earth and Wood, an uproar erupted from the crowd. Apart from the students of Truth College who pped vigorously, the rest of the students couldn��t help but curse.


    ��Big thanks to the Death Chant Phantom Band for their amazing performance!�� Arsenault��s clear and bright voice cruised over the stadium, quelling the students��motion. ��Next, we have the final segment of the College League opening ceremony��the Meteor Trial!��


    ��Please wee the contestants!�� another female host announced. ��First up is a freshman from Swordflower College��s Swords Sect, two-wings spellcaster, Sonya Therave!��


    As Sonya emerged from the tunnel, a pir of starlight focused on her, making herbat attire glitter brightly. Fireworks erupted at the entrance, forming patterns of swords and roses, and the thunderous apuse from thousands of people weed the vige girl into thebat arena!


    Eight massive holographic screens simultaneously disyed her front, side, and angled views. But thanks to the stage makeup that Lois and others had spent an afternoon perfecting, along with the ��Fixed Day�� spirit��s enhancement, Sonya��s beauty was wless from any angle. No amount of starlight could overshadow her radiance. She proudly raised her chin, basking in the attention.


    As she stepped onto the shallow ground stage, Sonya nced at thementary booth, thinking that her greatest luxury two months ago was merely to be seated there, introducing the new generation of Stars in Gxia.


    Even she hadn��t imagined that two monthster, she would be one of the Stars herself.


    And next, she needed to prove that she was the brightest star!��The second contestant is a senior from Trajectory College��s Nunchaku Sect, two-wings spellcaster, Colonzo Warren!��


    ��The third contestant is a senior from Fantasy College��s Gunmanship Sect, two-wings spellcaster, Lydia Azdar!��


    ��


    ��The sixth contestant is a junior from Truth College��s water department, two-wings spellcaster Vereen Ste!��


    ��All six contestants for the first round of the Meteor Trial are two-wings spellcasters!��


    When all six contestants took the stage, the most eye-catching was undoubtedly Vereen from Truth College. Not only was she one of the only two underssmen on the stagepared to the other seniors, she indeed was.


    More importantly, she was a water spellcaster!


    And tonight��s Meteor Trial ground was a shallow terrain!


    ��Insider dealings, definitely insider dealings!�� Adelle cursed angrily in the audience, ��Chop the Leaguemittee into bits and feed them to L Fatty!��


    ��Truth College doesn��t need to cheat in the College League,�� sighed Lois. ��This is just Truth College��s heritage.��


    The match terrain indeed was entirely random, but students from Truth College who studied in the Prophecy Sect didn��t need to interfere with the Leaguemittee. They just adjusted the sequence of participants directly to gain the geographic advantage!


    Other colleges also wanted to predict the match terrain, but the problem is, the Prophecy Sect has no set learning method. The lucky few who get in are immediately poached by Truth College. After all, Gxia��s only source of Prophecy Sect knowledge is Truth College, and even those with restraint would be swayed by Truth College��s benefits!


    Some might think, is it really necessary to go all out for a league held annually? However, for schools, the College League��s results directly determine next year��s education funding. For students, this might very well be the most glorious moment of their lives, and everyone would give their all!


    As a nationally broadcast, annually heldpetition show with ratings so high that even Drose��s lead drama gives way, student performance in the league directly impacts their future. The Royal Family��s Starburst Guard, the House of Nobles�� Griffin Squad, and the Barrier legion sweeping the Abyss all pick members from thesepetitors. Moreover, nobles enjoy injecting new blood through marriages. For instance, each generation of the Stargazer Duke, Duke of Vlozrada, has a partner who is a powerful swordsperson, mostly from amon background rather than noble birth.


    However, for this inaugural round of the Meteor Trial, Truth College isn��t going easy on anyone. If the terrain were the gobi, abyss, city, or desert, ordinary spellcasters might get some boosts, but not much. The shallow terrain is practically home turf for water spellcasters. Moreover, since Vereen hails from Truth College, she undoubtedly has some Radiant Golden-level Miracles up her sleeve, giving her a crushing advantage over the other spellcasters!


    ��Still, this is the Meteor Trial,�� Engulite said, folding her arms. ��Truth College��s representative is so dominant; she might be the first one to go down.��


    Lois and Adelle couldn��t help but nod in agreement, their eyes fixed on the six contestants in the arena.


    The College League is divided into three formats: the Meteor Trial, the Stars Trial, and the Celestial Pce Trial. Simply put, the Celestial Pce Trial is a round-robin format where schools are represented by five-member teams, simr to the format Sonya previously participated in during the Friendly Match, showcasing the schools�� overall heritage.


    The Stars Trial, on the other hand, features three-person team battles, with three teams fighting simultaneously. This format has the highest intensity, usually involving students who have experienced Abyss Adventures, testing team coordination.


    The Meteor Trial is a six-person free-for-allpetition. Only thest one standing is considered the winner! As thepetition progresses, the number of participants in the Meteor Trial remains at six. Sometimes, of the six in the Meteor Trial, only two have continued winning, while the other four are returning to fight for resurrection opportunities, measuring each contestant��s individual prowess!


    Some might wonder why a single-yerpetition involves sixbatants. There are many reasons. For example, at the low-level spellcaster stage, Sect-based weaknesses are very pronounced; a fire spellcaster facing a water spellcaster has almost no chance, a physical spellcaster counters most melee spellcasters, and gun spellcasters are a T0 profession. However, turning a one-on-one duel into a melee reduces the impact of Sect-based weaknesses, introduces many variables, and moreprehensively tests a spellcaster��sbat abilities.


    Another minor reason: a multi-person melee is simply more entertaining to watch than a one-on-one duel.


    After all, these contestants aren��t Sanctuary spellcasters. Although students go out of their way to add as many special effects as possible for the sake of showing off, to the untrained eye, studentpetitions still don��t match the dramatics of TV drama. To enhance viewership, the Meteor Trial has experimented with scales ranging from three to a hundred participants, finally settling on six. This number strikes a bnce, full of dramatic conflict without overwhelming viewers.


    The primary drawback of the six-person format is that the advantage of being the strongest is significantly reduced. After all, the otherpetitors aren��t foolish; in a zero-sum game, they will naturally team up to eliminate the strongest first.


    Thus, the winner of the Meteor Trial is either someone with a formidablebination of strategy,bat power, andworking skills, or��


    A genius who absolutely dominates all other participants!


    ��In the past ten years of opening Meteor Trials, the winners have invariably been students from Truth College,�� Vereen said with a smile, donning her translucent azurebat attire. ��The senior brothers and sisters have worked hard.��


    ��Is that so? That��s just great.�� Lydia drew her dual guns. ��I hadn��t decided on my goal for this year��s League yet, but now I know. My aim is to end Truth College��s winning streak today.��


    Colonzo twirled his nunchaku, the silver-tipped ends bursting into mes, indicating some hidden mechanisms in his weapon. ��Having a bit of respect for your seniors won��t harm you, junior sister.��


    ��Oh dear, don��t tell me I��m that unpleasant? Why does everyone want to take me out first? Could it be���� Vereen tilted her head and giggled as she shook out a short rod from her sleeve. It spun once, extending at both ends, and within an eye blink, transformed into a long staff.


    Thud!


    When the long staff struck the muddy ground, the umted water on the entire shallow stage surged madly towards Vereen, transforming into water dragons that coiled around her staff. They protected Vereen while asserting dominance over the stage. At this moment, Vereen appeared like a Witch of the water, while the others seemed like mere ignorant challengers!


    Leaving everything else aside, solely based on style and ir, the others were already utterly defeated!


    ����Are you jealous of Vereen��s beauty?�� Vereen griped her long staff close to her back, entuating her slender and graceful figure, and with azy tone, unted her confidence that dismissed everyone else.


    ��Warlord spellcaster���� The others murmured softly, abandoning any hope of luck. They stared at Vereen with intense caution and determination.


    A Warlord spellcaster is not a term referring to a specific Spellcasting Sect but rather a spellcaster who uses melee weapons in conjunction with Nature Spellcasting.


    While melee-focused spellcasting sects can also develop Nature Miracles, like a Sword Sect spellcaster wielding a me Sword, these miracles are integrated��meaning that there can only be mes if there��s a sword. A Sword Sect spellcaster can��t breathe fire, even if they wanted to fake it by shing with their fingers.


    However, Warlord spellcasters are different. They usually train in a nature-based spellcasting discipline and a melee weapon skill, both independently of each other. For instance, Vereen uses both a long staff and water dragons, but she can still conjure water even without her staff. Her water spells and her long staff technique are not interdependent.


    In battle, however, her water miracles and staff strikesplement each other. While you��re trying to counter her water miracle, you get pounded by her long staff. Focusing on defending against her staff will get you sted by water dragons!


    Fighting a Warlord spellcaster is like battling two opponents at once!


    This is actually a clever battle system. Nature Spellcasting Sects focus on precise spellcasting and not dynamic reactions, while melee weapon fighting emphasizes dynamicbat and not focused casting. It��s possible to use both simultaneously, but it requires an extremely high level of skill.


    Spellcasting Sects have evolved to the point where miracles from just one sect can cover nearly all possibilities. Even the Sword Sect has Self-Healing Miracles. Spellcasters usually only supplement their main sect with spells from other sects for additional functions like mobility, reconnaissance, healing, or finishing moves. They wouldn��t mixpletely unrted Sects just for their battle system. Therefore, those who do double-train in vastly different Sects are often battle-crazed enthusiasts, hence the term Warlord.


    Vereen may look delicate and pretty, specializing in the water department, but deep down, she��s undoubtedly an adrenaline junkie who enjoys fighting. She��s probably cracked the skulls of countless de Fish Dragons with her long staff!


    ��Sonya, junior sister, may I call you that?�� Vereen suddenly said, ��Since we��re both young and pretty, let me give you some advice��when they gang up on me, you��d better find a way to take at least one of them out.��


    Lydia quickly nced at Sonya, then sneered at Vereen, ��What��s this? A top student from Truth College resorting to sowing discord and forming cliques? Forget it. I��ll admit you��re the strongest right now, so you have to be the first to go!��


    ��I don��t talk to ugly people,�� Vereenughed. ��Sonya, junior sister, you��re just a first-year student who recently advanced to two-wings. In their eyes, you��re the weakest. Suppose��just suppose��they do eliminate me. They would immediately turn on you so you don��t get to reap any benefits.��


    ��In fact, they might even target you before eliminating me. Because in the Meteor Trial rules, only participants who have defeated others get a chance in the Revival Match. Even for insurance, they have no reason to let you, the newest and freshest junior sister, off the hook.��


    ��Look at you, using a Wooden Sword instead of a real one,�� Vereen continued. ��I don��t know if you��re deliberately showing weakness or if the Wooden Sword has some significance, but showing weakness in the arena will only make you a target for others.��


    Sonya raised an eyebrow, ��Thanks for the advice.��


    ��Therave, junior sister, don��t fall for it!�� Lydia said. ��She wants us to internalize our disputes, giving her a chance to pick us off one by one. Right now, Vereen is the strongest. If we don��t kick her out straight away, we��re bound to lose!��


    ��Don��t worry.�� Sonya gripped the handle of her Wooden Sword. ��I��ll take down the strongest first.��


    Despite the bold words, the spellcasters were clearly distancing themselves from one another. Verbal promises meant nothing here. One of the main attractions of the Meteor Trial is the deceit among participants. In a zero-sum game, forming a genuine alliance among the six contestants is impossible.


    That��s why Vereen wasn��t worried about being ganged up on. With just a slight nudge, any so-called alliance would crumble like sand. She was confident��in terms ofbat ability, tactics, eloquence, and situational awareness, she was the strongest among the six. This Meteor Trial��s victory would be hers to im, effortlessly.


    ��The contestants are growing impatient after a bout of verbal sparring. Who will be the meteor and who will be reduced to ashes? Let��s find out!�� Arsenault��s voice boomed enthusiastically. ��Countdown begins at five! Five, four����


    ��Three.�� Vereen gripped her long staff, nine water dragons forming behind her.


    ��Two.�� Lydia subtly retreated, her gun aimed at everyone.


    ��One.�� The hilt of Sonya��s Wooden Sword glowed with an ancient brilliance.


    ��Begin!��


    Boom!


    Blood Moon!


    A surge of a blood-red moon!


    As a crimson crescent shimmered across the water��s surface, everyone was momentarily stunned. It wasn��t until a muffled thud sounded from outside the ring that they snapped back to reality.


    Vereen had been knocked off the stage, crashing into the outer wall, gripping the broken pieces of her long staff in both hands. A ghastly wound seemed to split her from upper left to lower right. Thankfully, the ��Death-Prevention�� miracle had been invoked on the contestants, protecting all vital organs. But the terror in her tear-filled eyes made it clear just how deeply the attack had scarred her mentally.


    ����What miracle was that?�� Colonzo asked.


    ��Blood Moon Riptide,�� Sonya replied, shaking off the water droplets from her Wooden Sword. ��This miracle requires arge amount of water. I actually thought this shallow water terrain was designed to give me, a first-year student, an advantage.��


    ��It��s not in the Star Miracles Directory. Something you created?�� Lydia inquired.


    ��Yes, inspired by others�� experiences.�� The Red-Haired Sword Princess said, ��So, since I��ve defeated the strongest����


    ��Next, it��s your turn, you four weaklings.��

 Chapter 418: But Theyre Not You

    ��Cheers!��


    Outside the Sports Arena, Sonya caught the small wine bottle thrown at her and raised an eyebrow. ��Why do you still carry alcohol with you?��


    ��If you lost, this would be a healthy drink to drown your sorrows,�� Adelleughed as she hugged the vige girl. ��Ah, we actually look quite simr. So why can you take down five opponents with one sword move?��


    ��It��s not the same at all. Your butt is bigger, and you��ve got more meat,�� Lois chimed in.


    ��It��s called being voluptuous and well-proportioned!�� Adelle retorted, showing her teeth. ��And all the meat is exactly where it should be. I don��t have an ounce of�� extra fat����


    Adelle pinched her waist and fell into a long silence. Sonya twisted open the small bottle and took a sip when a familiar voice came from behind, ��Sonya!��


    Sonya turned to see her senior sister Leoni. The orange-haired dancer walked over and gave the vige girl a heavy hug, smiling, ��Nice fight. I can��t wait to face you in the arena.��


    ��After witnessing my Blood Moon Shattered Lake, do you still have the confidence to beat me?�� Sonya asked with a smile.


    ��Of course,�� Leoni snatched the bottle from her and took a sip, chuckling. ��I��ll admit, you��re stronger now, but before we meet, I��ll find a way to counter your Miracle. And my Rhythm Melody might just shatter your Blood Moon. If you get cocky, you��ll be in tears after I beat you! By the way, do you want to go to the secret garden for a drink after we get back?����No thanks, I already have ns tonight.��


    ��That��s too bad. I��ll catch up with the professor then,�� Leoni waved goodbye. ��By the way, Professor Nidhogg speaks highly of you. I think he��s regretting not taking you on as a student earlier.��


    ��That��s amazing,�� Adelle pouted with jealousy. ��My professor only regrets giving me passing grades and watching me struggle to keep up in the second semester.��


    ��Why not work hard and catch up?�� Engulite suggested.


    ��I��d rather my professor regret it,�� Adelle responded.


    Just then, Professor Trozan approached them and unexpectedly said, ��Ride with me back.��


    Generally, students take the shuttle bus back on their own since the Sports Arena has direct shuttles to various colleges. However, Sonya��s performance tonight had made Trozan proud, so Trozan reluctantly agreed to be her driver for once.


    Her roommates also took the opportunity to hitch a ride with the professor. Trozan��s car wasn��t anything special, but she seemed to use some spirit while driving. The car was not only very steady but also zigzagged skillfully, weaving through the traffic and carving a path despite the congestion.


    ��Look outside,�� Engulite suddenly said.


    The city��s holographic screens outside were repeatedly showing the footage of Sonya��s Blood Moon Sword defeating Vereen. It wasn��t just in Gxia; Abacuray, Magi, Mate-now the entire Stars Kingdom was still reliving the opening Meteor Trial.


    ��Famed in Swordflower, famed in the Imperial Capital, famed in the Stars���� Loismented. ��You reached your goal in just two months.��


    ��There��s still a long way to go,�� Sonya said, staring at her image on the holographic screens outside, unwilling to look away. ��Unless I keep winning until I be number one, everyone will soon forget about me.��


    ��Could you stop being so smug while pretending to be humble? You��re totally acting like a little megalomaniac! My dog looks just as conceited when I try to take its picture!��


    Sonya turned her gaze to Lois, and just when Lois thought she was angry, the vige girl ced her hands on her head, mimicking dog ears, and yfully said, ��Woof.��


    Lois felt her face heat up and turned away, mumbling, ��So you want me to take your picture, huh?��


    ��Sonya, Sonya!�� Adelle eximed, looking at her wristband��s holographic screen. ��Check out the school��s screens! You��re all over them!��


    ��Is anyone bad-mouthing me?��


    ��No way, this is your moment. The whole school is proud of you. Anyone who dares to say a bad word about you will get med instantly,�� Adelle said. ��Why don��t you make a post with your verified ount to boost your image? Then our Stretch Paw Club could expand!��


    ��Alright!��


    Soon, as the Swordflower College students were still riding the wave of excitement from the night��s events, they saw a post from the Red-Haired Sword Princess on the school��s veil.


    In the post, Sonya first provided a brief recap of her freshman year experiences. She shared some funny anecdotes about professors and the cafeteria, making the students realize that she wasn��t some unapproachable genius but an ordinary student just like them.


    Next, Sonya reminisced about famous events at Swordflower College over the past few years, triggering nostalgia among the older students and instilling a sense of collective pride in the younger ones.


    She then analyzed why Swordflower College��s recentpetition results had beenckluster, subtly suggesting that it wasn��t the college��s fault but due to suppression by other schools. This kind of conspiracy theory was already popr on the school��s veil, so everyone was very receptive to it.


    Finally, Sonya shared her aplishments that evening, modestly stating that she had made a small contribution and would need to continue working hard in the future.


    The emotionally charged students were so excited that they feltpelled to write thousands of words praising Miss Therave. Sonya��s post quickly became a hot topic, prominently pinned at the top of the veil. No doubt the ��Anti-Vige Girl Alliance�� was probably fuming, wishing they could be devoured by de Fish Dragons overnight to avoid the humiliation.


    Back at the school dormitory, Trozan called out to Sonya as she got out of the car, handed her a piece of Fluorite, said nothing, and then drove off.


    Looking at the Fluorite containing a two-wings swordsmanship spirit, Sonya thought, ��Trozan is truly a seasoned professional. A thousand words of praise don��tpare to directly giving something valuable.��


    Now that��s the kind of professor I like!


    Returning to the dormitory was like an emperor visiting the harem. Most students could only watch the live broadcast in the dorms due to the limited seating at the Sports Arena. Hearing Sonya had returned, they immediately swarmed to greet the new ruler. Soon, the entire dormitory echoed with chants of ��Sonya! Sonya!�� The vige girl thought of getting the duty teacher to calm them down but saw even the duty teacher shouting along at the staircase.


    ��Tsk, Swordflower College has be so lively; it��s fantastic!��


    Finally, arriving at her dorm room, Sonya was exhausted. But now, it was Lois and the others�� turn to help herbat attire was just as troublesome to remove as it was to put on. It took them over half an hour to get itpletely off, and Sonya used the time to catch a quick nap.


    Feeling a bit refreshed, Sonya went to the balcony to wash her face. Under the starlit sky, she activated her wristband and dialed a contact number, holding the wristband to her ear.


    The connection was made quickly.


    ��Linda?��


    Sonya sighed helplessly before speaking, ��Mom, it��s me.��


    Marsha��s voice sounded worried, ��I saw you fighting on the holographic screen just now. Are you hurt? Should Ie over?��


    ��No, no, no, they didn��t even touch my clothes.��


    ��But, what about those people you hurt? Will there be any consequences?��


    ��That was a spellcasterpetition. It��s a life-and-death situation by nature; there won��t be any issues. Besides, I was representing Swordflower College. If something doese up, the school will handle it.��


    After saying that, the conversation fell into silence. Sonya had many things she wanted to say, but somehow couldn��t get the words out.


    Suddenly, she heardughter from the other end.


    Hearing theughter, Sonya couldn��t help but smile too. ��What��s so funny?��


    ��Nothing, Mom just thinks our Linda looks very pretty.��


    ��Of course, don��t forget whose daughter I am.��


    Sonya exhaled, feeling her whole body rx. ��There will be anotherpetition in a few days. Make sure to watch.��


    ��I will! Mom doesn��t understand spellcasting, but take good care of yourself and don��t overexert.��


    The conversation ended, and Sonya went to the bathroom to change clothes. She came out and ran into Adelle, who had just finished bathing and was wrapped in a towel. Adelle took one look at Sonya��s attire and understood immediately. ��Are you going to the Virtual Realm tonight?��


    ��Yep,�� Sonya blinked. ��For us spellcasters, going to the Virtual Realm is the best form of rest.��


    ��Sure, sure.��


    ��Absolutely.��


    Engulite and Lois echoed her sentiments. Sonya nced at them curiously but didn��t think much of it as she left the dorm.


    Once the vige girl left, the three of them started talking behind her back.


    ��Engulite,�� Adelle asked while drying her hair, ��what do you make of this behavior?��


    ��I can only say it��s highly terrifying,�� Engulite replied. ��I used to believe it before I went to the Virtual Realm, but now that I��ve spent days in the Sea of Knowledge, I know there��s something off.��


    ��After an intense and thrilling battle, all I want is toe back and sleep. I wouldn��t dream of going to the Virtual Realm for a second round of overtime. How can battling be considered rest after a fight? Can you cure a hangover with more alcohol?�� Lois eximed.


    ��Well, actually, having a little bit of alcohol the next morning can indeed help with a hangover,�� Adelle chimed in. ��Don��t ask me how I know.��


    ��In summary,�� Lois concluded, ��either Sonya is a super hardworking freak that even Engulite would envy, or her Virtual Realm experience ispletely different from ours.��


    ��How could it be different?�� Adelle tilted her head. ��Could it turn from an adventure series into a romance drama?��


    Virtual Realm, Time Continent.


    As soon as Ashe arrived, he quickly opened the virtual realm map to confirm their location. ��We��re in the area in front of the Blood Tomb. There��s no detailed map, so we need to act cautiously and avoid the heroic soul legion��s pursuit����


    ��Ahem!�� Sonya cleared her throat and affectionately hugged Deya. ��Witch, our College League just began, and tonight I had my first Meteor Trial match.��


    Deya asked, ��What is the Meteor Trial?��


    ��Well, the Meteor Trial is����


    ��And then I used Blood Moon Shattered Lake to defeat Vereen����


    ��The remaining four were fighting to the death����


    ��The entire Stars Kingdom was watching my match����


    When Sonya finished recounting her glorious evening, Deya looked at her with admiration. ��That sounds so fun! Competing, bing famous, having tons of people admire you�� Is school really that interesting? Wow, Sword Princess, you must be a super big shot!��


    ��Not yet,�� Sonya replied nonchntly. ��I need to keep winning and eventually take the league crown to earn the Stars Kingdom��s recognition.��


    ��But it��s already amazing. You basically took on five opponents single-handedly. I can��t even be sure I could defeat five two-wings spellcasters in directbat����


    ��Of course, you can, Witch. Your Time Sect powers are unbeatable. If you took my ce, the match would end even quicker!��


    The sports car stopped outside a gemstone mine resource point. Ashe pped his hands. ��Quick, quick, quick, we need to loot as many resource points as we can before the heroic soul legion catches up!��


    Deya quickly jumped out of the car and dashed toward the mine, while Sonya lingered behind, taking her time.


    As Ashe was about to get out of the car, he felt a tug on his wrist.


    ��What��s up?��


    Sonya gave him a look that seemed to say ��how could you even ask that,�� and pointed to herself. ��I won the Meteor Trial.��


    ��Yeah,�� Ashe blinked, ��You said it pretty loudly just now; I heard you.��


    ��Well, don��t you think you should���� Sonya fluttered her eyshes, ��show some appreciation?��


    Ashe lookedpletely puzzled.


    ��But, but all our spoils always go to you first,�� he scratched his head, ��How about I give you a ��Massage Coupon�� that you can redeem anytime?��


    ��Tsk,�� Sonya shook his arm vigorously and pouted in discontent, ��Can��t you just give me some praise?��


    ��Didn��t you say the audience, professors, and even the Witch praised you just now?��


    ��But they aren��t you.��

 Chapter 419: Chaotic Shopping Book

    Chapter 419: Chaotic Shopping Book


    As Ashe, Sonya, and Deya sat in the sports car, ncing at each other with the Heroic Soul Legion��s countless troops chasing them, they couldn��t help but wonder: How did it evere to this?


    Half an hour earlier, Ashe had discovered a golden areabeled ��Don��t miss it, once you pass by�� on the virtual realm map. Upon entering, they found a small caf��, where three books and three cups of coffee appeared on the table, matching their number.


    Ashe initially thought it was ��Fate Questioning,�� but upon opening the book, he realized it wasn��t. Instead, it was an even more love-hate virtual realm mechanics��the ��Chaotic Shopping Book of Blessings and Curses��!


    ��Congrattions to every spellcaster who opens this book. Your luck is unparalleled, and your destiny is about to change. You are light, you are electricity, you are the myth of the future!��


    ��This book ispiled by the ��Dramatic Poet����, Please remember this name, for�� is the narrator of fate, the wielder of the power of contradictions, the director of countless joys and sorrows, the witness of the world��s separations and reunions.��


    ��Millions of Spellcasters in the Virtual Realm are not even half as great as��!��


    ��The following purchase rules must be observed for this book����


    ���� Each blessing or curse has a price. For every blessing purchased, you must endure a random curse of the same price, and vice versa. Fair exchange, after all.��


    ���� Blessings and curses chosen by the spellcaster will not cancel each other out. You can eat feces and excrete rice, or eat rice and excrete feces, but eating them together won��t neutralize the excretion process.������ Random curses onlyst during the virtual realm period and will not affect reality; random blessings onlyst in reality and will not affect the virtual realm.��


    ���� After opening this book, you must purchase at least one blessing/curse, but there��s no shopping limit. Don��t miss it, once you pass by.��


    ���� As a shopping tax, this book will extract personal life experiences from the spellcaster to generate new blessings/curses. There are only two unavoidable things in life: eating and paying taxes.��


    ��Please note, don��t think you can exploit loopholes by choosing all powerful blessings to resist curses. You might step outside and be cursed with ��Thinking will turn you to stone,�� instantly turning into a statue. If you chose the ��Immunity to Petrification�� blessing, the curse might change to ��Thinking will turn you into a L Fatty.�� In short, if you dare to take advantage of me, I��ll wipe out your entire family.��


    ��But don��t be too afraid, the ��Dramatic Poet���� isn��t some great viin. This is a benefit for the younger generation. So, for the first-time spellcasters opening this book, if your curse points �Q 10, your random curse will end in this virtual realm exploration; if your blessing points �Q 10, your purchased curses will end within 72 hours in reality.��


    It��s you again, the nameless Dramatic Poet!


    This was the only strange spellcaster Ashe and the others knew who could leave a special mechanism in the Virtual Realm. The ��Legendary Library�� that Ashe and Deya encounteredst time was also his creation, but unfortunately, Sonya had written a leave request that night and wasn��t able toe.


    Later, Ashe asked if there were many special mechanisms left by legendary spellcasters on the Time Continent. The vige girl shook her head affirmatively, saying that the Dramatic Poet was indeed the only one who left mechanisms on the Time Continent.


    While it was true that the Dramatic Poet was extremely powerful, what truly made him remarkable was his ability to return to the Time Continent. After all, spellcasters who could affect the Virtual Realm were at least legendary, if not Demigod Angels or even Divine Sovereigns. However, these powerful beings found it extremely difficult to return to the lower level beginner��s vige of the Virtual Realm.


    This was also a protective mechanism of the Virtual Realm. Otherwise, the appearance of a strong individual who enjoyed ��cutting down seedlings�� could easily annihte all novice spellcasters worldwide.


    The fact that the Dramatic Poet could leave so many mechanisms on the Time Continent indicated that he could almost freely move in and out of the secondyer of the Virtual Realm, or at least the cost was very low. So spellcasters were very curious about what kind of sins the Dramatic Poet must havemitted to be wiped clean of even his name.


    However, not all of his mechanisms were beneficial. The ��Chaotic Shopping Book of Blessings and Curses,�� for example, fully showcased his twisted sense of humor, making people sigh and wonder if letting the Dramatic Poet live would only make rice more expensive.


    As Ashe and the others opened the Shopping Book, they saw a dazzling array of options:


    Physique: ��Die suddenly anytime +30, weak and frail +10, resistant to all diseases -10, limb regeneration -30��


    Wisdom: ��Cannot avoid rain +30, intellectually disabled +10, clever and witty -10, insight into truth -30��


    Luck: ��Choke on water +30, no toilet paper +10, everything you wish for -10, destiny��s favor -30��


    Charisma: ��Repulsive to gods and ghosts +30, pollute the air +10, universally adored -10, cmity of all races -30��


    These were options targeting the spellcaster��s attributes in a more conventional way, but there were many more peculiar blessings and curses��


    ��Beautiful Life -10: Everyone and everything appears beautiful to you, allndscapes are worth stopping for, and you never have a bad day.��


    ��Misanthropy +10: Even watching someone breathe makes you feel like the world is doomed.��


    ��Hear Inner Voice -10: You can vaguely hear others�� inner thoughts.��


    ��See-through Illusion -10: You can��t truly see through objects, but you do see what you want to see.��


    ��Mortal Danger Sense -10: When in danger, time seems to slow down for you. The greater the danger, the more time decelerates.��


    ��Temporal Confusion +30: Your sense of time ispletely thrown off. Today is the 3rd, tomorrow is the 9th, and yesterday was the 21st. Haha.��


    ��Foresee Death -30: You can see how you will die.��


    Although these blessings and curses were strange, they were somewhat understandable. However, there were many more that you couldn��t categorize at all��


    ��Childhood Friend -10: Within three days, a childhood friend will find you, with simr strength to yours, but your rtionship will remain just friends.��


    ��Lover -30: Within three days, someone who perfectly fits your romantic tastes will appear, matching your strength, and will love only you in this lifetime.��


    ��Enemy +10: Within three days, a hated enemy will appear, with simr strength to yours. They will align with everyone who dislikes you to take you down.��


    ��Sincerity +10: If everyone in a ce is sincere, is it heaven or hell?��


    ��Chat Channel -30: You will join the Chat Channel created by the Dramatic Poet, allowing you to chat with anyone in it anytime, anywhere.��


    ��de Fish Dragon -10: Every time you enter the Virtual Realm, a de Fish Dragon will appear next to you, fully obedient to yourmands.��


    ��Random Race +10: You will transform into a different random race.��


    ��Beautiful People Don��t Poop -10: Your waste will be transferred to another person for processing.��


    ��What the heck is all of this���� Ashe said, feeling a headacheing on. ��If you��re already transferring the waste, why not just send it to the sewer instead of into someone else��s intestines!?��


    ��Maybe it��s a way of respecting the poop,�� Deya spected, ��but Observer, why do you even care about this? Are you thinking of choosing it?��


    ��They say people spend half an hour every day on this�� if I could save that time���� Ashe pondered, ��But what about ��childhood friend�� and ��lover��? If I choose ��lover��, does that mean someone who likes me will just appear out of nowhere?��


    ��It could also mean the Sword Princess will appear by your side,�� Deya mumbled very quietly.


    ��What?��


    ��I was saying, why isn��t the Sword Princess speaking,�� Deya said, looking at Sonya, who was staring at the Shopping Book like a vige girl dazzled by jewels. ��Sword Princess, did you find something?��


    ��Sincerity,�� Sonya muttered softly.


    ��What?��


    ��Sincerity!�� Sonya looked up at Ashe. ��The blessings and curses are just on the surface; they��re essentially like the Summoning Ritual of sincerity!��


    Ashe was momentarily stunned, then suddenly realized something and began to study the Shopping Book closely. Only Deya looked confused��these two lovebirds were having another encrypted conversation!


    The vige girl also realized she had subconsciously shown too much familiarity and couldn��t afford to appear too close to the Observer in front of others. She then leaned closer to the Witch to exin the Summoning Ritual of sincerity.


    The Summoning Ritual of sincerity was the ritual Ashe had forced the Sword Princess to undertake to obtain the spirit of sincerity. During that time, the Sword Princess could only tell the truth until she summoned the spirit of sincerity. Thinking about it, doesn��t that sound exactly like the ��Sincerity�� curse from the Shopping Book?


    ording to this logic, most of the blessings and curses in the Shopping Book are actually rted to Summoning Rituals of different spirits!


    ��Wait a minute,�� Deya suddenly reacted, ��Then ��foresee death,�� ��temporal confusion,�� and ��hear inner voice������


    ��Are Summoning Rituals for spirits from the Prophecy Sect, Time Sect, and Mental Sect, respectively,�� Ashe exined. ��Both ��beautiful life�� and ��misanthropy�� should also be rted to the Mental Sect, while ��see-through illusion�� would likely summon a Reconnaissance Spirit. So basically, the real purpose of the Shopping Book is to let you quickly master a new Spellcasting Sect!��


    ��But what about ��childhood friend,�� ��lover,�� and ��enemy��?��


    ��I can guess what ��enemy�� means,�� Sonya pondered. ��Your enemy will link up with everyone who dislikes you�� meaning if you keep an eye on your enemy, you��ll know who holds a grudge against you.��


    ��Random Race is very useful,�� Deya suddenly said.


    ��Why?�� Ashe asked, puzzled. ��I��m pretty happy being human.��


    ��Not if it��s permanent, of course, but if it onlysts 72 hours, it��s like having a rare experience,�� Sonya exined. ��Most intelligent races other than humans have their own specialized Spellcasting Sects. Some unique sects can��t even be essed unless you belong to a specific race, like the Gluttony Sect exclusive to Ogres. You might be able to grasp the basics within those 72 hours.��


    ��But the most important ones are still the Prophecy, Destiny, and Truth Sects,�� Deya said seriously. ��These three Sects are nearly impossible to master on your own. You usually need some kind of Adventure to be lucky enough to gain the Virtual Realm��s favor�� Yet now, the Adventure is right in front of us: ��insight into truth,�� ��destiny��s favor,�� and ��foresee death.����


    By choosing these blessings, they would be guaranteed to master those most mysterious and powerful Spellcasting Sects.


    ��But they each cost 30 points,�� Ashe pointed out, spreading his hands. ��If we choose them, we won��t trigger the Dramatic Poet��s benefits.��


    Purchasing blessings will add ��-�� curse points, and purchasing curses will add ��+�� blessing points. If it��s your first time purchasing and the points are within 10, the Dramatic Poet willpress the curse duration to either one virtual realm exploration or 72 hours. This arrangement is highly advantageous for Spellcasters.


    But if it exceeds 10 points, the Dramatic Poet won��t assist, and the curses granted by the Shopping Book will be permanent. The consequences would be too severe, akin to choosing the wrong major in college and being stuck with it for life.


    For a curse like ��weak and frail,�� it might still be manageable, but a permanent ��Random Race�� curse�� it��s one thing if you randomly turn into a Bewitcher, but if you be an Ogre, you��d practically need to restart your life. Also, since Ashe is a man, there��s a zero percent chance of randomly bing a Bewitcher; at best, he might turn into an Elf.


    ��Wait, why does the Chat Channel also cost 30 curse points?�� Deya asked curiously. ��Is it some sort of Rare Spirit Summoning Ritual?��


    ��The Chat Channel itself holds no inherent value; it��s the people in it who matter,�� Ashe exined. ��There might be weekly gatherings of Divine Sovereigns, Angels, and legendary spellcasters in there. They could be exchanging intelligence and items.��

 Chapter 420: The Main City

    The attitude of the Dramatic Poet is quite clear: I am both the shelter for the weak and the examiner for the strong.


    The truly powerful blessings in the Shopping Book all cost 30 points. In other words, if you aim to gain transformative power from the Shopping Book, the Dramatic Poet will not help you one bit. However, if you are content to take modest rewards, the Dramatic Poet is pleased to offer some benefits to the younger generation.


    He will ensure that blessings be genuine blessings and that curses turn into temporary Trials, guaranteeing that every spellcaster who opens the Shopping Book will gain something, if not carry a full bag of rewards.


    After a brief discussion, Ashe and the others ultimately resisted the temptation of the prophecy from the Fate Sect. Though investing in prophecy, Fate, and Truth Sects is undoubtedly worthwhile in the long run, the cycle of investment is too lengthy and offers no quickbat advantages.


    More importantly, they could not afford any risks.


    In a few days, they would reach the Spider Tower area, and Ashe and hispanions were already exhausting their efforts to evade the Empress��s heroic soul. If a curse demanded their attention, they might as well cleanse themselves and wait for the Empress��s favor.


    Although they could not choose the powerful blessings or curses, they still had many options. After a short discussion, they all decided on the same blessing: ��mortal danger sense!��


    The more dangerous the situation, the slower time flows!


    This blessing is likely rted to the Time Sect, but since it only costs 10 curse points, ordinary spellcasters would be unable to summon a time spirit through this blessing. However, Ashe and hispanions are different��thanks to their recent time travel through the Golden Flow, all three of them had advanced to the Golden level in the Time Sect!As long as they experience enough dangerous battles, they could surely use this blessing to summon the corresponding time spirit! Even if they could not summon one, this blessing alone would significantly boost theirbat power!


    As for selecting a curse, their choices varied. Sonya chose the Physical Curse ��weak and frail,�� and Ashe chose the Luck Curse ��no toilet paper.��


    However, the strongest was Deya��she chose the Wisdom Curse ��intellectually disabled!��


    Facing the awestruck gazes of her teammates, Deya calmly rubbed her face, and her hair turned wine-red, her expression bing cool and serene.


    Ashe and Sonya were slightly taken aback before they remembered that the Witch had multiple personalities. The Witch didn��t need her main personality to endure the intellectually disabled curse; she could simply switch personalities to be immune to the curse��s effects!


    If not for the restrictions set by the Dramatic Poet, Deya might even dare to choose the ��cannot avoid rain�� curse!


    ��Scarlet Dead Apostles?�� Ashe asked, ��Are you okay with this?��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles thought for a moment and then nodded, ��A little bit.��


    ��It��s quite normal,�� Sonyaforted, ��Although this is indeed the best way to handle it, transferring the curse to a sister is somewhat����


    ��No, it��s not that I dislike the curse. On the contrary, I��m quite curious about what I��ll be like after bing intellectually disabled,�� Scarlet Dead Apostles said. ��I just think the Secret Princess doesn��t need to involve me��since the curse doesn��t affect her at all.��


    Because Scarlet Dead Apostles spoke so frankly, Ashe and Sonya couldn��t tell if she was being sarcastic or not.


    The curses that the three of them��Ashe, Sonya, and Deya��purchased were all worth only 10 points and would be lifted after 72 hours in real-time. Meanwhile, they would also receive permanent random blessings of equal value. The blessings they bought were also worth only 10 points, so the corresponding random curses wouldst for only one virtual realm exploration session and would be lifted once they returned to reality.


    This is the correct way to use the Shopping Book: buy one blessing and one curse, with additional random curses and random blessings thrown in. After all the curses are lifted, you end up with just two blessings!


    Afterpleting their purchases, Ashe, Sonya, and Deya clicked to submit, and then the Shopping Book entered its final stage: taxation.


    The Shopping Book extracted their life experiences to generate new blessings or curses to enrich the product list!


    The Shopping Book glowed faintly and extended several luminous tendrils through the spellcasters�� bodies. Then it retracted these tendrils as if ink were being absorbed into the pages, generating new items in the catalog��


    ��Blessing �C Grand Wedding: You will have a grand wedding that everyone envies, an unforgettable honeymoon that always holds a significant ce in your memories, and then have ten children.��


    What!? Sonya was stunned. Isn��t ten too many?


    ��Blessing �C Family Reunion: You will have the perfect family��a mediocre male master, a virtuous female master, a sharp-tongued but tsundere butler, a cold yet passionate bodyguard, an adorable and innocent daughter, and a troublesome pet.��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles was stunned, ��I��m the bodyguard?��


    ck Butler retorted, ��How am I tsundere?��


    Deya coughed, ��Ahem, I didn��t expect this book to be so well-informed. The mediocre male master must be referring to Ashe, and the virtuous female master undoubtedly is����


    White Queen interjected, ��Obviously me, huh. So, my rtionship with Lise would upgrade from sisters to mother and daughter?��


    Deya queried, ��Wait a minute, then who am I?��


    ck Butler responded, ��First of all, let��s exclude the adorable and innocent daughter.��


    While Deya and Sonya let their imaginations run wild, Ashe��s face turned serious.


    ��Curse �C Emotional Fraud: A fraud adept at deceiving feelings will be doomed to die a horrible death, with no body left to bury and soul shattered. The Dramatic Poet said so, even the Divine Sovereign can��t save you!��


    How did this cursed book extract ��emotional fraud�� from my rather uneventful life�� or is this some sort of sarcastic jab? Like pointing to a worker and saying, ��You��re so lucky to have such a fully packed schedule!��


    Counting everyone I know, excluding operators (Sword Princess, Witch), those I haven��t met in person (222), those who are too young (Lise), adversaries (Yvaren, Qenna), superiors (Annan), and those I cannot resist (Freya), there��s really no one left!


    You could say I��m adept at deceiving men, perhaps��Igor, Langna, Lte, Harvey were all talents I lured from the Shattered Lake market myself!


    Putting down the Shopping Book, Ashe and hispanions left the caf��. The moment they stepped out of the special area, the random curses took effect��


    ��Curse �C Eye Contact: You must maintain eye contact with others for 59 minutes and 59 seconds.��


    Ashe didn��t know if this curse was custom-tailored for their team, but he knew that the moment the curse descended, he couldn��t tear his gaze from the eyes of the Sword Princess and the Witch!


    The Sword Princess and the Witch were in the same predicament, with the three of them locked in a staring contest. For a moment, no one dared to move. Meanwhile, Ashe��s ��no toilet paper�� level luck seemed to have just kicked in��the thunderous hoofbeats of the heroic soul legion could be heard in the distance, signaling their immediate need to flee in the sports car!


    But the curse of eye contact was like a multi-person control spell, keeping them rooted to the spot. Suddenly, Ashe had a sh of insight. He lifted the Sword Princess and the Witch, cing them in the front seats facing backward, while he sat in the back seat facing forward. This way, they could maintain eye contact while Ashe drove the sports car�� to escape?


    Damn it!


    Ashe couldn��t look at the virtual realm map because he had to maintain eye contact! He moved the virtual realm map beside the Sword Princess��s face, using his peripheral vision to navigate. He focused solely on escaping, with no regard for the direction of the white bull!


    ��Two heroic soul legions are closing in,�� Sonya observed through her peripheral vision, ��The number of followers exceeds 100, but there are no armed troop types yet.��


    ��Armed troop types consume soul power. Unless they��re sure they can catch us, themander won��t waste resources,�� Ashe replied, rxed.


    For the past few days, they had been driven hither and yon by the heroic soul legion, but actually faced little danger, even managing to loot while on the run.


    Aside from being fast, theirck of serious pursuit from the heroic soul legion was key.


    Even though they knew Ashe had a conceptual Incarnation, deploying armed troop types required real soul power. If they failed to catch them, it would be a huge waste, right? Thus, the heroic soul legion had only been making tentative pursuits. But as soon as they started chasing, Ashe and his team would run. If the pursuit failed, there was no need for the heroic soul legion to deploy armed troop types. This endless cycle meant the heroic soul legion was like a whip constantly driving them. Ashe and his team hadn��t dared to rest for days, looting and running, and then looting again, with far more efficiency than before.


    However, as soon as Ashe finished speaking, the long-range attacks of the Thousand-feathered Drakes rained down on the ��Refracting Wall.��


    ��Why are they using armed troop types now?�� Ashe was surprised, ��Are they really confident this time?��


    Suddenly, a heroic soul legion appeared ahead, causing Ashe to swerve in fright. Just as he was about to leave the legion in the dust, another one emerged from the right front!


    What��s going on? We haven��t even reached the Blood Tomb section tonight, and Spider Toweres after that. It��s one thing to be zealously pursued in the Spider Tower area, but why are the locals here also going all out to hunt us down?


    ��Something��s off!�� Sonya eximed. ��This is the seventh different heroic soul legion we��ve encountered, and they haven��t even considered giving up!��


    ��Are we lost?�� Deya asked.


    ��If we had a destination, that could be considered being lost. Right now, we��re just wandering!�� Ashe replied helplessly.


    Another fresh heroic soul legion appeared to their left front, forcing Ashe to redirect once again. He had no way of determining if they were heading into a trap because his eyes were focused separately on the Sword Princess and the Witch, leaving only a sliver of his peripheral vision for the virtual realm map!


    ��Can you squeeze a bit closer? Otherwise, I can��t maintain eye contact correctly����


    ��We��re practically glued together already. I could lick the Sword Princess��s face with my tongue,�� Deyained. She was indeed face-to-face with Sonya. ��Tsk, why don��t we switch ces? I��ll sit in the back, and you can watch while I cozy up to someone.��


    ��What are you talking about, Witch?�� Sonya retorted angrily, wrapping her left arm affectionately around Deya��s waist.


    Whoosh!


    Suddenly, it felt as though they had passed through an invisible barrier, and all three spellcasters sensed the change��or rather, they directly saw the change!


    In their view, the Reverse Golden Rain vanished instantly, reced by a lush, green meadow!


    ��Did we enter a static domain?�� Sonya quickly recalled how they had been turned into a painting by a static domain when they first arrived on the Time Continent.


    ��No, it��s not a static domain,�� Ashe murmured. ��You��ll realize what it is soon.��


    The sports car screeched to a halt, carving a donut shape into the grassywn. Throughout the abrupt stop, they managed to maintain eye contact. Finally, Sonya and Deya could see the enormous structure upying this space��


    A fortress.


    A fortress made of colossal vines and giant trees!


    Countless knowledge creatures flitted and danced outside the fortress walls, nesting and multiplying!


    In the depths of the fortress stood a spiraling steel structure that resembled a gigantic torch, pointing straight toward the skies of the Time Continent!


    All the Reverse Golden Rain could do was float around the grassy area, forming a Rain Curtain that nourished the oasis��s soil without turning the grass a single shade of gold!


    A peculiar realization dawned upon the spellcasters: even the time rules of the Virtual Realm could only add to this ce but could not overshadow it.


    A faint sense of vanity swelled within them, and their pride as fellow spellcasters made them increasingly reverent.


    Because this was the work of the most powerful spellcaster.


    This was a manifestation of the Will of the Divine Sovereign permeating the Virtual Realm!


    ��No wonder we encountered more and more heroic soul legions along the way,�� Ashe remarked. ��We��ve stumbled into one of the main cities of the Six Nations.��

 Chapter 421: Sudden Downturn

    Main City!


    The headquarters of the Heroic Soul Legion, the most perilous and mysterious area of the Time Continent!


    Even the Sword Princess couldn��t find a single mention of the Main City in her school. For the majority of spellcasters, encountering the Heroic Soul Legion is the extent of their abilities. Without killing amander and obtaining a map, they would have no clue about the location of the Main City.


    As for stumbling into the Main City area by ident��impossible. Both the Blood Tomb Map and the Star Shrine Map that Ashe possessed clearly indicated that the Main City area was patrolled by at least three legions, and the patrol legions were equipped with ��flying�� and ��scouting�� attributes. Any ordinary spellcaster who crossed the boundary would instantly die and be expelled back to reality. It��s a ��try it and die�� scenario.


    Knowing the location of the Main City, Ashe��s team never had the urge to explore it. Firstly, exploring the Main City offered no guaranteed benefits apart from satisfying their curiosity. Secondly, the risks were absurdly high, not to mention they were still being hunted by the Heroic Soul Legion.


    Exploring the Main City would be like voluntarily running into a fire with a gasoline can, trying to act as firefighters.


    Wouldn��t it be better to steadily climb to the third level of the virtual realm? Wouldn��t it be more enjoyable to follow the map and search through the area? Why leave thefort zone?


    Thus, when Ashe realized he was in the unfamiliar Main City area, his feelings were akin to those of a terminally ill patient����Why is this happening?��


    Under normal circumstances, he would never venture into such a ce. Even without a detailed map, he would immediately turn back upon seeing the Heroic Soul Legion ahead, just as one would seek shelter upon seeing storm clouds gather.However, the Shopping Book��s random curse of ��eye contact�� made it difficult for him to focus on the virtual realm map. In any other situation, the ��eye contact�� curse would pose no threat at all to them. They could simply sit and stare at each other for an hour, and it might even increase their Bond Level.


    Even in the worst case, encountering lethal danger would only lead them to death. During the curse, they couldn��t voluntarily exit the virtual realm, but once outside, the random curse would automatically end, effectively exchanging one death for a blessing.


    But Ashe and hispanions happened to be continuously hunted by the Heroic Soul Legion!


    And they had reasons they couldn��t afford to die!


    Unfortunately, the speed of the sports car was enough to break through the patrol defenses surrounding the Main City!


    Ashe couldn��t tell if this was due to the bad luck from the ��no toilet paper�� curse, the Eternal Presence curse acting up again, or perhaps the Empress��s curse taking effect��of course, it wasn��t just a single-choice question��but with multiple coincidences aligning perfectly, Ashe managed to break into the unfamiliar Main City area unscathed!


    However, the spellcasters were not excited by the ��great sight�� they witnessed; instead, an overwhelming sense of fear surged in their hearts.


    ��Roar!��


    On the walls of the Giant Wood Barrier, several pitch-ck dragons unfurled their Twin Wings and roared. The sound almost took on the form of tangible ck lightning, spreading continuously through the space, even affecting the sports car at the edge of the area, causing ripples on the Refracting Wall!


    As if triggered, Ashe��s spirit suddenly jumped out by itself, the dual-colored crystal hovering in the air emitting a blinding purple light, almost as if shouting at the dragons, ��Come on! Dare to kill my master!�� And he couldn��t withdraw it, scaring Ashe into quickly tucking the spirit into his trench coat.


    Spirits sometimes burst out on their own, mostmonly when they��re hungry. But if they encounter something interesting, they might sneak out to ��touch fish,�� like when Ashe would y Spellcaster Duel 14 with Lise, the Heart Sword and Earth Sword would appear on his shoulder to watch.


    ��There��s actually a mature Evil-Eyed Shadow Dragon!�� Sonya��s voice trembled. ��Isn��t this an Upper-tier species from the Distant Sky Domain? How could it appear in the Time Continent?��


    ��A knowledge creature from the Distant Sky Domain?�� Ashe was stunned. ��So, that means����


    ��It��s young form already has the power of a Sanctuary spellcaster, its growth stage can rival Sanctuary spellcasters, and a mature Evil-Eyed Shadow Dragon is one of the ��Top Ten Deadly Cmities�� of the Distant Sky Domain!�� Sonya tightly grasped Deya��s hand. ��My professor�� she once challenged an Evil-Eyed Shadow Dragon, and couldn��t enter the Virtual Realm for half a year afterward.��


    Not amander, not a troop type, but a single knowledge creature that the Main City kept, with the power to crush Sanctuary-level forces!


    Only a fool would approach the Main City!


    However, the relentless pursuit of the Heroic Soul Legion gave Ashe no choice at all!


    The sports car roared nervously, speeding desperately on the peridot-green grasnd, trying to circle around the perimeter! The air was filled with the fresh scent of green leaves, and the unobstructed grasnd, free from any Rain Curtain, stretched out seamlessly before them. The beautiful young female operator nced at him with expectant eyes. If not for the thunderous roars around them, this could have been a pleasant joyride.


    ��I can��t help it,�� Ashe shrugged. ��My Virtual Realm n didn��t include breaking through the Main City as a minor objective.��


    ��So, what do we do?�� Deya asked anxiously. ��If this keeps up, we��ll definitely get surrounded�� huh?��


    Suddenly, Deya paused, adjusted her in sses, and then her hair turnedpletely white, and her outfit transformed into a silver-white dress armor.


    ��White Queen?��


    ��It��s me.�� The White Queen nodded. ��Sword Princess, I need to exin something first.��


    Sonya, who had been staring at Ashe in thought, turned to look at her. ��What is it?��


    ��The Observer cannot die,�� the White Queen stated firmly. ��In a few days, it��s Spider Tower��s turn. If he dies, we will definitely breach the Pact, and the soul summoning spirit will have to be handed over to the Empress. Without the soul summoning spirit, we can only hope for the Empress��s immense mercy��which is clearly wishful thinking. The Empress hasn��t even reimed her emotions yet; even if she had, she wouldn��t possess such feelings.��


    Ashe didn��t argue. Even if he created several bottles of Scorching Soul Essence Elixir, it would never be enough to recover in just three days unless he could draw out a more powerful item. But he had just purchased the bad luck curse.


    Although Ashe could use the Gospel Book to amplify his will and increase his winning probability, it would be akin to finding hand sanitizer when there��s no toilet paper. Rather than relying on a gamble, he might as well expect the ranking list to update tomorrow, immediately promoting him to Sanctuary level and rewarding him with several wives��that would actually solve all problems thoroughly.


    In truth, after losing the soul summoning spirit, logically speaking, the Empress had no reason to continue hunting them. There were no benefits to be gained. But the Empress was not a species governed by logic. Moreover, leaving their fate in someone else��s hands was a foolish move. Ashe didn��t want anyone else to decide their fate, which is why he had escaped the Shattered Lake Prison.


    ��Having three people maintain eye contact is too restrictive,�� the White Queen continued. ��But with only two, it bes much easier. We could even attempt to cross the Golden Flow.��


    ��But the curse is already in ce,�� Ashe pointed out. ��Even if we wanted to break it, we����


    Ashe trailed off mid-sentence.


    This curse could indeed be undone, and the method was exceptionally simple.


    ��Self-mutting one��s eyes can break it,�� the White Queen said. ��However, since our spellcaster souls will automatically heal injuries, we must continuously damage our eyes to maintain blindness.��


    ��What��s more likely to happen is that the curse will prevent the healing to ensure the spellcaster doesn��t regain the ability to ��see�� during the curse��s duration.��


    The ��eye contact�� curse was quite interesting. At its core, it aimed to keep the spellcaster in a constant, unchanging state. When a spellcaster forcibly changes the state through self-muttion, the curse��s principle remains the same����maintaining eye contact�� will transform into ��maintaining blindness.��


    ��If two people maintain eye contact while carrying a third blindfolded operator, we could regain some mobility,�� Ashe contemted. ��If we can find a way across the Golden Flow, we might just escape this alive����


    Boom!


    Fiery balls resembling meteors erupted into ming lotuses on the Refracting Wall. The piercing screeches of flying creatures drowned out their voices as another contingent of the heroic soul legion emerged from the Rain Curtain outside the main city, blocking Ashe and hispanions�� escape route once again!


    Faced with such encirclement, the sports car had no choice but to veer towards the main city, but this was merely a stopgap measure. Their maneuvering space was shrinking rapidly, and at any moment, amander from the main city coulde out and im them as a convenient delivery!


    Just over half an hour ago, they had been ted over encountering the ��Chaotic Shopping Book�� special mechanism.


    Half an hourter, the situation had sharply deteriorated. Although they were driving across vibrant grasnds, death was eagerly approaching them!


    This impending demise would directly lead to losing the bet with the Empress. After losing the soul summoning spirit, their future lives would depend entirely on the Empress��s mood on that day.


    Defeat was imminent, and survival seemed impossible!


    ��If this continues, we��ll be fodder for the knowledge creatures long before we reach the Golden Flow,�� the White Queen said. ��It��s time to make some tough decisions.��


    ��What do you mean?�� Ashe asked.


    ��Arm the one who��s blind and have her stay behind to buy us some time,�� the White Queen suggested calmly. ��She might only dy them for a second, or she might sessfully confuse the heroic soul legion. Either way, it��s better than sitting here waiting for death.��


    ��The benefits are too low!�� Ashe retorted immediately. ��And staying behind is certain death!��


    ��But this isn��t the Spider Tower. They aren��t the Empress. They won��t go out of their way to consume our souls. The soul of the one who stays behind will be heavily damaged, but at least they��ll have a chance at life,�� the White Queen exined. ��If we do nothing, we die for sure. At least this way, there��s a chance for some benefit.��


    ��That��s true,�� Sonya suddenly agreed. ��The Witch��s analysis makes sense. It��s the only option we have, so����


    ��I��ll do it.�� ��I��ll do it.��


    The White Queen was somewhat surprised. ��Sword Princess, you��ve been teamed up with the Observer the longest. You work well together. If I stayed behind, I wouldn��t be able to utilize much strength with him. It should be you.��


    ��No,�� the vige girl shook her head. ��Ourbat power is insignificantpared to the heroic soul legion. If we end up fighting, it would be a futile struggle. But Witch, you have a sharper time ability. We managed to cross the Golden Flowst time thanks to your help. If we need to cross it again to escape, then it��s more appropriate for you to stay behind.��


    ��Sword Princess,�� the White Queen said, ��we volunteered to stay behind. You don��t need to feel any psychological burden or prove that we��re equals. During ourst time travel across the Golden Flow, we already trusted you.��


    ��I��m not�� okay, let��s not talk about you staying behind to be effective,�� Sonya responded. ��But as you said, I have to prove that we are equals! I usually take the most spoils of war and consume the most orbs. I��ve also been in the team longer than you. So at this moment, I have to bear more responsibility; otherwise, how can we be equals?��


    ��You saying you don��t mind doesn��t matter. You might not mind today, but what about tomorrow or the day after? I don��t want to test human nature because every test turns into an Abyss, bing a monster. With others, taking advantage might be fine, but we have countless days and nights to spend together in the future. I can��t let you look down on me!��


    ��Sword Princess, your pride is too strong. I wouldn��t look down on you for this.��


    ��It��s not about pride; it��s just how I see things,�� Sonya replied.

 Chapter 422: The Virtual Realm War!

    As Ashe watched the two operators tussle over who would stay behind, he suddenly felt a sense of disorientation.


    He knew they were right.


    He also knew that his life was the most critical, because only by preserving the soul-summoning spirit could they all have a chance of survival.


    The situation was dire, and the idea of escaping unscathed was utterly unrealistic. Sacrifice was inevitable, and they were, after all, a team��the primary function of a team was to sacrifice the interests of some, if necessary, for the greater good.


    Therefore, their optimal decision was to leave someone behind to buy time. If the heroic soul legion still caught up, another person would stay back. Ashe himself, even if he had to gouge out his eyes to resist the curse, would continue driving in search of a slim chance of survival.


    Returns.


    Probabilities.


    Expectations.


    This was the method with the highest sess rate; it was an unavoidable strategy. Sacrifice was necessary, abandonment was expected. Facing an unstoppable flow of fate, only the foolish would try to reverse it, while the clever would strive to keep losses within eptable limits��Ashe felt his self-awareness slowly detach from his body, calmly observing everything from a third-person perspective, blocking out unnecessary emotions and stray thoughts. He even regarded himself as a mere pawn, all for the greater��


    ��In short, I��m staying behind!�� Sonya forcefully pinned the White Queen down to keep her still, then reached out and grabbed Ashe��s hand. ��Observer, give me an armed troop type!��


    The warmth of her soul conveyed through her touch. Honestly, the Sword Princess��s hand wasn��t soft; as a swordsmanship practitioner, her hand was steady and firm, a bit plump, giving the feeling of being gripped by a cat��s paw.


    Whether from fear or excitement, she held on tightly, her thumb pressing against his forefinger, her index finger holding down the back of his hand, and the other three fingers firmly sping his little finger, as if trying to meld his hand into her own palm.


    In that moment, Ashe sensed a strong sense of anomaly!


    ��Okay.��


    As soon as Ashe finished speaking, he abruptly stabbed one of his own eyes!


    Before the Sword Princess and the Witch had time to react in shock, the sports car suddenly came to a screeching halt, carving a donut shape into the grass, stopping beneath the fortress walls!


    ��What are you doing?!��


    ��The city gate has opened, and the heroic soul legion is nking from the front,�� Ashe exhaled heavily. ��No need to discuss who stays behind; we can��t escape anymore.��


    ��Then why did you gouge out your own eye?!�� Sonya asked anxiously.


    ��I saw you both fighting to be the one blinded, so I thought I��d give you a preview of what it feels like.�� Ashe withdrew his finger, and his eye quickly healed. ��Trust me, you won��t have fond memories of it.��


    ��Observer Mode.��


    The intense stimulus finally snapped Ashe out of ��Observer Mode.�� He only just realized that he had entered this state of absolute calm during a nonbat situation��though, Ashe might not have considered itbat, his nearly wrecked sports car might have thought otherwise.


    Based on past experiences, ��Observer Mode�� only activates in the most critical moments, ensuring no mistakes and allowing him to perform at theoretically 100% efficiency. Consequently, Ashe didn��t mind entering ��Observer Mode��; it felt like a special physiological response simr to an adrenaline rush.


    This was indeed a critical moment, but Ashe hadn��t expected ��Observer Mode�� to aid him not only inbat but also in making decisions.


    Decisions that were absolutely correct, with the highest expectation and theoretically optimal oues.


    Reflecting on it now, Ashe didn��t think there was anything wrong with his decision-making process. It��s just that in this world, not all ��correct things�� are things one should do.


    For example, enjoying solving advanced math problems was borderline masochistic.


    Or, treating your teammates as mere pawns.


    Ashe knew he should do that.


    He initially wanted to do that.


    But he couldn��t do that.


    ��From now on, don��t say such wasteful things about life,�� Ashe said. ��You��ve already destroyed my ability to endure loneliness. I��m not interested in exploring the Virtual Realm alone.��


    Sonya was slightly taken aback and instinctively tightened her grip on his hand.


    The White Queen shrugged. ��Then it looks like we��re really not getting away this time.��


    The ��Refracting Wall�� waspletely shattered by zing fireballs, and a juvenile Evil-Eyed Shadow Dragon swooped down. Its elders seemed uninterested in the intruders; it alone fancied a midnight snack.


    The three of them, Ashe, Sonya, and the White Queen, had no intention of resisting. With their visionpletely locked, they couldn��t even aim at the enemy.


    ��If we die here, and the Spider Tower round is missed in a few days, the soul-summoning spirit will lose to the Empress.��


    ��No worries,�� Ashe said confidently. ��Even without the soul-summoning spirit, I will make sure she pays!��


    Thinking about the culprit who had trapped them in this dire situation, even Ashe couldn��t help but grit his teeth. ��Empress, just you wait!��


    ��Alright,�� a charming and haughty voice suddenly echoed from behind them. ��I��m waiting~��


    Swish, swish, swish, swish!


    Suddenly, the sound of thunder and fire erupted behind them. With a shriek, the Evil-Eyed Shadow Dragon crashed next to the sports car, its grotesque body melting and riddled with holes as if it were an umbre in a storm, torn apart!


    Hearing that familiar voice, the three of them��Ashe, Sonya, and the White Queen��trembled, seeing astonishment in each other��s faces.


    Even without seeing, they knew who had arrived!


    But the question was, how could that person be here!?


    They nced sideways and noticed that as the sports car traversed the main city��s area, it left a vivid purple aura behind. It looked as though someone had painted the scene with watercolor, the purple color spreading and erodingrge sections of green space!


    Meanwhile, white dots began to emerge from the depths of the purple areas, spreading and weaving webs within the purple patches. Then��


    Fully armed spiders descended along the webs.


    The heroic soul legion chasing Ashe and his team fell into chaos instantly. They were not yet equipped with their troop types and were as fragile as paper before the Spider Tower legion, getting torn to pieces!


    Red Hats, Bluebeards, giant spiders, The Girl of Secret Gaze�� The Spider Tower legion continuously crawled out from the spiderweb,unching a fierce assault on the Greatwood Fortress under themander��s will. Initially, the Greatwood Fortress was caught off guard, and the Spider Tower legion swiftly took over the walls. But the fortress creatures quickly armed themselves and engaged in brutalbat on the walls, trying to regain control of the battlefield!


    The aftermath of the legion sh sshed into the sky, turning half the sky into a thick purple and the other half a burning green. Every minute, shattered corpses fell from the walls, and every minute, new soldiers crawled out from the spiderweb to join the fight from within the city!


    There were no preliminaries, no parley-both sides immediatelyunched an all-out assault at the highest level. Their strategies were as coarse as barbarian hunts, yet their tactics were as intricate as those of master artists.


    Danzel sat atop an Eight-eyed Weaver Spider, crawling out from the spiderweb not far behind Ashe. Today, she wore the appearance of The Girl of Secret Gaze, her eyes covered by a blindfold as she ��looked�� at Ashe and the others, raising an eyebrow.


    ��Not even sparing me a nce, huh? You only have eyes for each other?�� Danzel huffed. ��Fine, when you be mymanders, I��ll assign you to the same unit, so you can get sick of each other over a few centuries.��

 Chapter 423: Divine Intervention Spiderweb

    Virtual Realm, Spider Tower Main City.


    In this ck-and-white woven tapestry, the irregr, three-pronged, eight-cornered knowledge creatures swiftly organized into uniformed Spider Tower soldiers behind the armed troops. However, under the constraints of the static domain, they were mere stagnant shades of gray. Without the protection of the main city and the nourishment of the Golden Flow, they would have to wring out every bit of time within themselves to take a single step forward.


    Only native knowledge creatures could move freely within the static domain. Knowledge creatures from armed troops were not recognized by the Virtual Realm��they could not transform into the shape of a spellcaster! ��Transform back! If you don��t, I��ll freeze time for you!��


    No other force aside from the Spider Tower would arm their troops during the static domain phase because armed troops had a duration limit and generally moved slower than knowledge creatures. Thus, mostmanders adhered to the basic principle of ��travel in original form, arm before battle.��


    Naturally, the Spider Tower wouldn��t vite this principle.


    When they armed their troops within the static domain, it meant��


    The Spider Tower legion intended to strike directly into the turn of other forces from the suspended time!


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Countless threads descended from the spiderweb canopy in the sky, connecting to the Spider Tower soldiers, cocooning them, and then pulling them into the web. Upon first nce, it seemed as though they were ascending to heaven or descending into hell.In the next moment, countless cocoons appeared within the spiderweb outside the Greatwood Fortress. The cocoon threads quickly condensed into armor, and the Spider Tower soldiers, stepping into time, regained their colors. Their minds instantly linked to themander��s central control, corrosively infiltrating thend like venom, breaking through to strike the enemy main city like bays!


    As sudden as thunder, as enigmatic as shadows!


    This was the Spider Tower��s warfare, its divine intervention!


    Danzel observed as the Spider Tower soldiers barely breached the walls, now embroiled in a grueling street battle. The Greatwood Fortress was now fully operational. The heroic soul legion outside swiftly returned for support, while the auxiliary troops inside fully armed themselves forbat. The Spiderweb legion was mired like quicksand, struggling to make progress.


    She couldn��t help but sigh, ��If this were the fully formed Spiderweb, we would have captured the fortress by now.��


    Spiderweb: A War Miracle Left by the Omniscient Weaver for the Spider Tower.


    ording tomon knowledge, a Divine Intervention can only be initiated by a Divine Sovereign, with the minimum requirement being at least an Angel. Asking a mere two-wingmander on the Time Continent tounch a Divine Intervention is like expecting a 2D character to jump out of your phone and marry youpletely different dimensions of reality.


    In a certain sense, the Time Continent is like a closed kindergarten. No matter how fiercely the heroic soul legions sh, to the Divine Sovereign it��s just child��s y. However, the Divine Sovereign cannot step in to help; thus, the only option is to smuggle prohibited weapons into the kindergarten through special channels.


    The Omniscient Weaver devised a special system to achieve this: it dispersed the Divine Intervention into the Gospel Kingdom, then let the Spider Tower gather the fragments and reweave them. It may seem simple, but it is actually a highlyplex mechanism with a very long cycle��at least 50 years.


    The Great Appointment of the Six Nations happens every fifty years precisely because the strategic miracles of all factions require 50 years toplete. This is not a stability achieved overnight but a bnce refined over millennia. When Danzel first became amander, the Great Appointment of the Six Nations urred every hundred years, but as all factions engaged in an arms race to speed up the recovery of their strategic miracles, the interval stabilized at fifty years in recent centuries.


    With each iteration of war and negotiation,manders have be increasingly adept, factions�� troop types have grown stronger, and strategic miracles have be more refined.


    What if your strategic miracle isn��t ready when an enemy attacks?


    Then, you��d better flee and preserve your remaining forces, and obediently withdraw from the current Appointation War.


    In her long heroic career, Danzel has both crushed those whose strategic miraclesgged behind the current version and been beaten by those who optimized their miracles ahead of her. From these experiences, she derived two insights:


    First, strategic miracles truly determine the oue of battles.


    Second, if you��re certain you��re going to lose this time, don��t wait for a strategic miracle!


    Losing a conceptual Incarnation, Danzel knew that the Spider Tower was essentially out of the running for the top three this time. Since that was the case, the Spider Tower might as well initiate the Appointation War early, dragging all factions into the quagmire, triggering their Strategic Miracles ahead of schedule and leveling the ying field. Amid the chaos, they might actually have a chance!


    However, saying this is easier than doing it. If the Spider Tower tried to make a swift assault on other factions following the white bull��s footsteps, it would be nearly impossible.


    After all, the other factions weren��t fools. Once they detected a massive incursion by the Spider Tower legion, they��d immediately pull their main forces back to the core city and likely set up ambushes around it. The moment the Spider Tower legion attacked, they��d be encircled��turning a surprise raid into a full-scale battle. Fighting a total war on someone else��s turn, in their territory, outside their main city, would be a foolish waste of the Spider Tower��s forces.


    Thus, when Danzel realized that it was virtually impossible to reim the Secret Incarnation by herself, given Ashe andpany��s ability to traverse the Golden Flow, she made the positioning method of the Secret Incarnation known to all factions.


    Firstly, even if the Secret Incarnation was destroyed, it could eventually be reborn. However, if Ashe managed to ascend to the Sanctuary with the Secret Incarnation in hand, the Spider Tower would lose it forever.


    Secondly, Danzel despised those who neither surrendered nor consigned themselves to death. She relished actions that, while harming herself, would also hinder others.


    Thirdly, Danzel wanted to gamble that Ashe and his group would head toward the main city area.


    And she won the bet.


    She knew full well that a regr spellcaster couldn��t even approach the main city area. Yet, Ashe��s group not only had the ability to form a team but also possessed a mechanical construct with a speed far exceeding that of ordinary knowledge creatures, giving them the strength to enter the main city area.


    Danzel disseminated the intelligence that Ashe and his group were harboring the Secret Incarnation, hoping that other factions would provoke them. This would not only draw out the core city��s forces but also force Ashe to flee in all directions, increasing the likelihood of him breaching the main city area.


    Of course, the ideal scenario would be Ashe and his group, driven by rage from being pursued, storming into the main city area on their own initiative.


    However, Danzel was just gambling for fun, not really expecting much. She often doodled circles and cursed them to take the bait, but she never anticipated that before even a full cycle of the white bull wasplete, the spellcasters would begin to stage the scene she most eagerly awaited!


    They breached the main city area with the conceptual Incarnation!


    The moment the Oasis was smeared by the purple of secrecy, Danzel immediately applied to activate the Divine Intervention: Spiderweb, and requested totalmander authority!


    ��Spiderweb��


    ��Active Effect: Weave �C In areas smeared by the purple conceptual coating, weave su teleportation arrays. The main city legion can consume spider silk to teleport from the main web to the subweb.��


    ��Active Effect: Entangle �C Upon consuming spider silk, soldiers gain 3 additionalyers of armor and the ��Entangle�� buff. All enemies attacking entangled soldiers will suffer a 30% speed reduction and a 30% cognitive slowdown as a persistent debuff. When the entangled soldier��s armor shatters, it will ssh 3yers of venom on all targets within a 3-meter radius. Enemies caught in the venom will receive continuous damage (the number of venomyers can stack infinitely).��


    ��Active Effect: Corrode �C The subweb will continuously expand at a rate of 3 meters every 10 seconds. Any enemy units stepping on the subweb will be bound, have all their troop type skills nullified, and lose 3yers of armor every 10 seconds.��


    ��Passive Effect: Omniscient Veil �C Spider Towermanders can ignore the Reverse Golden Rain, extending their observation distance up to 300 meters.��


    ��Passive Effect: Trap Shroud �C In the main city area covered by the Spiderweb, the effects of ��Weave��, ��Entangle��, ��Corrode��, etc., are always active.��


    ��Ultimate Weapon: Fate Weave (iplete) �C Within a designated area, sever all Fate Threads of enemy units,pletely erasing their existence and preventing any resurrection; repair all Fate Threads of friendly units, fully restoring armor status, and instantly reviving units fallen in this round. Using this skill will consume the entire Spiderweb and can only be activated when the web��s quantity exceeds 50%.��


    By gaining totalmander authority and activating the powerful Spiderweb, Danzel aimed to turn the tides of this unexpected confrontation.

 Chapter 424: Urging the Gospel Explosion

    In the divine realms of the Six Nations, only the spiderweb possesses the regr teleportation effect!


    Scenes like the Spider Tower legion��s surprise attack on the Greatwood Fortress have yed out countless times over the past centuries! Even Danzel herself has meticulously nned dozens of such surprise assaults!


    The significance of the conceptual Incarnation lies in its dual functions: not only does it enhance troop types, but it also serves as an extension of the divine miracles!


    In the wars among the Six Nations, without the protection of divine miracles, the heroic soul legion would be as defenseless as being naked. Danzel��s painstaking efforts to eradicate the Incarnation of the Stars were definitely worth it, because in this Appointation War, the Star Shrine could only formrge legions around the remaining three concepts, meaning they could conduct battles on a maximum of three fronts simultaneously, but no more!


    Each additional conceptual Incarnation provides a strategic advantage, introducing another deployable unit and allowing divine miracles to influence another battlefield!


    So, after losing the Secret Incarnation, Danzel knew that under normal circumstances, their chances of victory were non-existent��Spider Tower now only had two concepts left, allowing for only tworge legions to operate externally, which couldn��t form a strategic depth and could only barely protect themselves!


    When the white bull circles back again, if Ashe and his team still refuse to surrender, Danzel must dispatch an elite legion to raid the Blood Tomb or the Star Shrine, igniting the war through the spiderweb. Otherwise, once everyonepletes their Strategic Miracles, Spider Tower would be left in the dust, watching other forces take the spotlight.


    Although Ashe and hispanions were unaware of the true nature of the divine miracles, seeing the purple glow emanating from the soul-summoning spirit and observing the trail of purple stains left by the sports car, they immediately realized that they had been used by the Empress during a trial period.


    ��Why didn��t she use this tactic to capture us earlier?�� Deya asked, having switched back at some point, likely due to the intense pursuit by the Empress. She seemed to exhibit Stockholm Syndrome, trying to find some shred of humanity in the Empress: ��Could it be that she actually spared us?����Perhaps the cost of using this tactic is significant, making it unworthy for just hunting us down,�� Ashe spected. ��More likely, it��s because only when we stepped into the main city did it activate the concealed painting function of the Secret Incarnation�� It��s the first time I��ve seen a spirit relieve itself everywhere.��


    ��Purple, green, the mutual repulsion between concepts���� Sonya mused, ��The conceptual Incarnations might be more important than we imagined, perhaps even determining the oue of wars in the Virtual Realm. No wonder the Empress insisted on shattering the Incarnation of the Stars, and was so relentless in hunting us down�� Observer, why did you get your hands on the conceptual Incarnation and still don��t know how to use it?!��


    ��Good question. I��d also like to know why I can��t get married just because I got a girl��s number and became her friend,�� Ashe replied. ��I have a theory, though not necessarily correct��isn��t there supposed to be some genuine mutual understanding in between?��


    Buzz!


    Before the sword Princess or the Witch could say anything, the Sports car sprayed Toxic Mist and sped off again. It was at this point that Danzel finally sensed something was off��she hadn��t nned on actually capturing Ashe and hispanions because the Sports car was ridiculously fast, and the Spider Tower legion could only materialize behind Ashe, making interception impossible.


    When she saw them stop, she didn��t bother dividing her forces to capture them. However, when Ashe sped off again, she felt something was wrong��why did those two women keep looking back at that man? Was he performing some kind of bizarre act?


    Though Danzel didn��t know exactly what was happening, her expertise in sabotage and her knack for exploiting vulnerabilities made her quickly realize they were in a unique bind. In an instant, Danzel decisively allocated one-seventh of her forces to chase them down��if she could seize the Secret Incarnation, the mission would beplete!


    Meanwhile, directly in Ashe��s path was a heroic soul legion returning to the Greatwood Fortress. Themander of this unit had no idea why their small squad suddenly attracted the attention of such arge force, but quickly made the right call��sacrifice his team to dy the Spider Tower troops as much as possible!


    The squad swiftly fortified their positions, preparing to hold the line!


    From above, it looked like a Sports car was leading a massive army past the small squad!


    ��Get down!��


    Ashe lowered the front seat back, instantly transforming the interior of the Sports car into a bed where the three of themy t, staring at each other wide-eyed. With their peripheral vision, they could see the Sports car navigating through a barrage of fire. asionally, an explosion nearby would make the car groan under the pressure. The Refracting Wall hadpletely shattered; if they dared to poke their heads out, they��d certainly be shot.


    The Sports car��s Evil de had leveled up to Level 6, awakening a special effect: ��reduces the friction coefficient of any object it hits to zero,�� meaning that no matter what they collided with, even if they didn��t slice through it, the object would simply slide away, no longer obstructing their path��allowing them to navigate smoothly!


    As the Sports car seemed on the brink of being blown up, Ashe and hispanions instinctively held hands. With wide eyes, they stared at each other, finding that the fear of death seemed less overwhelming��as if facing it together made all the difference.


    Suddenly, the Sports car seemed to collide with something, followed by a deafening thunder and fire. A wisp of green smoke floated in from outside and was absorbed by the soul summoning spirit, transforming into a green glow.


    ��This spirit has sessfully absorbed a fragmentary spirit of the same name, unlocking new troop types: ��Temple Apprentice�� and ��Tri-tone Anchor.����


    ��Oasis-Temple Apprentice: +10% melee soul damage, restricts enemy escape, 3yers of armor, humanoid creature, equipped with a scimitar andsso. Each unit consumes 1 point of soul power.��


    ��Tri-tone Anchor: 3yers of armor, 40% anchoring effectiveness, each unit consumes 3 points of soul power.��


    Ashe was stunned for a moment, then quickly realized that amander nearby had died. Perhaps it wasn��t their direct hit, but it definitely happened shortly after their collision, allowing the soul summoning spirit to absorb a trace of themander��s power.


    It really was just a trace, unlocking only one troop type. Even Demilo hadn��t been this stingy. However, the upgrade from Two-tone Anchor to Tri-tone Anchor, with a 40% anchoring effectiveness, gave them much more confidence in crossing the Golden Flow!


    Before long, Ashe and hispanions realized they were safe��they had returned to the Reverse Golden Rain!


    Seeing the familiar scene of Reverse Golden Rain flowing from below into the sky, Ashe and his friends were moved to tears and couldn��t help but hug each other and cheer!


    This was where spellcasters truly belonged��none of that Oasis-Spider Tower entanglement. Stick to your webs and leave us spellcasters alone!


    Inside the Oasis, Danzel watched as Ashe and his crew sessfully escaped back into the Rain Curtain. She ordered her legion to continue their assault. It was frustrating; an Oasis squad had appeared just as Ashe and his crew were escaping, mistaking the Spider Tower forces for their attackers and erecting a temporary defense line. Although the Spider Tower soldiers swiftly annihted the squad, the battered Sports car managed to wobble away to safety.


    These spellcasters had incredible luck.


    Or perhaps, the Spider Tower��s luck had started running out.


    Seven holes still needed mending, rendering the spiderweb iplete. Not only could they not activate the ultimate weapon ��Fate Weave,�� but other effects were also significantly weakened. If the spiderweb were whole, the effects of ��Entangle,�� ��Corrode,�� and ��Omniscient Veil�� would increase by 2.33 times.


    More crucially, since the Fate Threads wove the spiderweb, an iplete web meant destiny itself had ws. The more the Spider Tower used it, the stronger the bacsh from fate would be, manifesting as a gradual decline in luck across their entire force. Evenmanders gathering resources might get ambushed by passing spellcasters.


    Boom!


    Suddenly, a spiral structure within the Oasis Fortress erupted in mes, illuminating the entire battlefield. Every nt in the main city area began to grow wildly, almost sentiently ensnaring Spider Tower soldiers. Oasis soldiers gained a massive boost, nearly pushing the Spider Tower front lines back!


    Danzel, far from being frightened, actually smiled, her eyes full of anticipation.


    Finally, the Oasis had unleashed their Strategic Miracle: Silent Spiral!


    Now, neither side couldplete their ultimate weapons!


    Regardless, this move had dragged the Oasis down with the Spider Tower. Now, they only needed to capture this fortress, forcing the Oasis to prematurely engage in the war alongside them!


    ��We��ve already deployed the spiderweb. Although the ultimate weapon can��t bepleted, the other effects can still be enhanced,�� Danzel said, surveying the battlefield, though it wasn��t clear who she was speaking to. ��Now we must use the information gap and our local advantages to expand our gains�� You need to elerate the updates,plete the remaining seven holes as quickly as possible. Don��t worry about quality��if they breakter, it won��t matter. The key battles will ur in the next few rounds. As long as it holds during that time, we��ll be fine!��


    After a brief pause, Danzel seemed to hear a satisfactory reply, and her face flushed with joy. ��Rest assured, just like the past millennia, I will continue to secure victory for you��my light of life, my fire of desire, my original sin, my�� Yisuo.��

 Chapter 425: Im Allergic to Humans

    Chapter 425: Im Allergic to Humans


    When Ashe jumped up from the bed, his first reaction was to keep rubbing his eyes, almost wishing he could dig out his eyeballs and wash them a few times.


    ��Ashe, you��re awake? Then I��ll open the curtains.��


    Harvey��s voice came from the top bunk, and then the bay window��s curtains were pulled open, letting the piercing morning light wake up the dust on the desk. The pure golden text echoed in the cramped, dim room.


    Igor was sitting on the opposite bottom bunk, reading the Gospel Book. Sunlight, scattered by the small flower-patterned curtains, trickled down onto his pajamas, making the scene look serene and tranquil. Speaking of which, Ashe remembered that the Con Artist��s Gospel Book used to be dazzlingly golden, almost engraining the word ��gold-digger�� in its title. However, recently, the Con Artist��s Gospel Book had started to change. Although it was still in gold and silver tones, the pattern style had be quite simr to Ashe��s Gospel Book.


    What does this indicate?


    It indicates that Ashe has better taste, so much so that even Igor couldn��t resist copying his social media cover.


    ��Where��s Banjeet?�� Ashe nced at the opposite top bunk, noting the neatly folded quilt and pillow.


    ��He��s gone to prepare breakfast.�� Igor noticed Ashe looking thoughtfully at him. He raised an eyebrow, ��Can you stop looking at me like that? It��s kind of gross.��


    ��No, I was just looking at beautiful women for a long time, and I feel like I��ve thoroughly understood all their features.�� Ashe offered a very professional suggestion, ��Igor, if you let your blonde hair grow a bit longer, your hardware would be perfect�� No, you don��t need to grow it long, just cut it a bit more stylishly, and that should be enough�� Igor, you get what I mean, right?��Having watched sword Princesses and Witches for a full hour, Ashe now saw remnants of them in everything he looked at. He began ovepping their images with the Con Artist and quickly found room for improvement in Igor��s appearance.


    ��I get it, absolutely. You just woke up and want to pick a fight, trying to trick me into shaving my head, right?�� Igor said. ��Harvey, why don��t you show Ashe your spoils from tonight?��


    ��Hm? Ashe, do you want to see?��


    Harvey handed down a box from the top bunk, and Ashe took one look at it. The lingering images of the sword Princess and the Witch in his eyes instantly vanished, leaving only the horrifying scene of densely packed cockroaches entangled together in his mind!


    Bang!


    Honey Sword pierced directly into the opposite wall. The next second, Ashe transformed into a streak of light and fled to Igor��s bed, sticking to the wall like a startled cat, eyes fixed unblinkingly on the necromancer with the cockroaches, as if ready to teleport away at the slightest movement.


    ��You��re afraid of cockroaches?�� Igor couldn��t help butugh, his mouth twitching. He threw a nket towards Ashe.


    Ashe immediately pulled up the nket to form a three-dimensional defense: ��Anything inrge quantities can scare me, even L Fatty and gold coins�� Harvey, could you please use your invincible Frostfire to burn them to ashes! What are you keeping them for, a midnight snack?!��


    ��First, Frostfire can��t ignite any material,�� the necromancer said, closing the cockroach box. ��Second, you are on the right track; I��m going to pickle them in venom and turn them into food.��


    ��I-Igor, I feel a bit weak. Could you inform the Red Hat and report this perverted necromancer here��?��


    ��Calm down,�� Harvey replied with a look of exasperation. ��It��s not like I��m feeding them to you.��


    ��Why does that sound so much like a threat�� I��m still trembling with fear!�� Ashe said. ��Can��t you do something more normal?��


    ��They��re for Alice,�� Harvey shrugged. ��I��m preparing her for a ghoul enhancement. One of the necessary steps in the Ritual Track is to consume dposers. Ideally, I should use scarabs, blood maggots, or corpse beetles, but given our current situation, cockroaches will have to do.��


    Ashe looked at Igor in bewilderment. The Con Artist exined, ��Scarabs can burrow into bodies and crawl to the brain, blood maggots can squeeze into blood vessels and flow to the heart, and corpse beetles have extremely potent corpse poison�� They aremon scavenger pets under the Blood Moon.��


    ��Pets?�� Ashe was genuinely shocked. ��Are�� we Blood Moon people that incredible? Why don��t we keep cats or dogs as pets?��


    ��The result of self-destruction, worshiping the grotesque, and seeking filth, all entangled and corroding each other,�� Igor said as he tucked his hair behind his ear. ��In a Kingdom where everyone has a psychological disorder, you need to lower your expectations of them.��


    ��I��ve already lowered them to the ground!��


    ��If you had worked as a psychologist for just a few days, you would know to dig the ground with a shovel, unearthing those rotten, foul-smelling, twisted nt roots. Only then would you see the true Blood Moon.��


    ��So, Igor, what pet would you keep if you had one?�� Ashe suddenly asked.


    ��Hmm?�� Igor was slightly taken aback. ��Probably�� a cat?��


    ��Aha, just as I thought,�� Ashe said, looking triumphant, which made Igor feel a bit confused.


    ��See, collecting cockroaches is considered normal for me,�� Harvey sighed. ��Ah, why can��t cockroaches be as big as my palm? Their current size is simply not enough to eat.��


    ��If cockroaches were as big as my palm, they still wouldn��t be enough to eat��I mean, I wouldn��t be enough for them to eat,�� Ashe suddenly realized something. ��Wait, Harvey, how did you catch so many cockroaches?��


    ��I have a spirit specialized in gathering scavengers. I returned from the Virtual Realm around midnight tonight, and since I had nothing else to do, I collected them. This amount is from the entire building,�� the necromancer said. ��After all, the Ritual Track in the Necromancy Sect requires the consumption of a lot of scavengers.��


    ��W-wait, when the cockroaches were being gathered,�� Ashe swallowed hard, ��did they�� crawl over us?��


    ��No.��


    Igor said calmly, ��I returned early tonight as well and watched Harvey collect the cockroaches. They all moved along the ceiling and dropped into his box, withouting near our beds.��


    ��Exactly,�� Harvey said, waving his hand. ��Despite appearances, I��m actually careful. I wouldn��t let foode into contact with you guys.��


    ��Watched all night��?�� The Cult Leader looked at the Con Artist with awe.


    ��Self-destruction, worshiping the grotesque, seeking filth.�� Igor closed the Gospel Book with a slight smile. ��Take a guess which ones apply to me.��


    ��Breakfast is ready!�� came Banjeet��s voice from outside.


    Ashe saw Harveying down with the cockroach box and immediately shouted, ��If you dare bring that box outside, I��ll fight you to the death!��


    The necromancer gave him a strange look and nodded. ��As you wish.��


    He summoned a dark green spirit, which squeezed murky purple-blue liquid from the air into the box. Then he covered it, sealed it, and stuffed it under the bed��since Harvey and Ashe had bunk beds, it meant it went under Ashe��s bed.


    ��The transformation process needs to connect to the floor. I was going to put it on the balcony, but under the bed works too,�� Harvey shrugged.


    Looking at the quiet box in the shadow under the bed, Ashe felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. ��Igor, how about we trade beds?��


    ��No way.��


    ��Your bed looks pretty big, how about����


    ��You can either squeeze in with Banjeet or sleep with Annan and Lise,�� Igor firmly refused. ��I��m allergic to humans.��


    ��You weren��t this picky when you were in prison!��


    ��Getting to know you gave me this allergy. Reflect on that.��


    The three of them left the bedroom and entered a roughly twenty-square-meter living room. The kitchen was separated by a wall, and Banjeet, not wearing his butler attire but casually donning an apron, was cing six breakfasts on a folding round table. He looked like the gentle high schooler from a dating sim.


    Lise, wearing oversized pajamas, was yawning and sitting on a stool, her long white hair all tangled. Ashe and Harvey were about to go to the bathroom to brush their teeth when Annan chased them out: ��Boss first.��


    The Cult Leader walked out to see the Con Artist brushing his daughter��s hair and asked curiously, ��Igor, why aren��t you brushing your teeth?��


    ��I��ve already had my bath.�� Igor pressed Lise��s shoulders to keep her still. ��Avoiding doing things with you all is a simple technique to improve my quality of life.��


    Ashe and Harvey had no choice but to brush their teeth on the balcony. Just three meters away, across from them, was the balcony of a typical mixed-race family: an orc grandfather, an elf grandmother, an orc dad, a siren mom, and a siren son. The siren son seemed to be refusing to get out of bed, while the orc grandfather sat in a rocking chair on their balcony, sipping tea and reading a Gospel Book. When he saw Ashe and Harvey, he raised his teacup slightly in greeting.


    Ashe and Harvey nodded in return, then took big gulps of water, gargled noisily, and spat directly into the balcony drain.


    Although roaming the Virtual Realm was equivalent to resting, thetest Ritual made Ashe feel even more alert. He looked up and saw the bright sky fragmented by the wires strung between the residential buildings. Early-rising office workers stood on bncing scooters, weaving through the streets. In the distance, chaotically expanded residential buildings created an uneven, post-modern forest. Drunken goblinsy on the far streets, stripped of their clothes, as everyone walked around them while stray dogs urinated on them.


    The morning light poured over the city like oil paint, coloring this chaotic yet vibrant metropolis. Here, advanced technological gadgets were ubiquitous, but so were the grotesque, distorted cityscapes and disorderly public safety. It looked like a golden-edged toilet bowl.


    This was Fidr, a chaotic city that had consistently rankedst in every city ranking, yet boasted one of the top five poptions in the nation. Known as ��The Noise of the Gospel,�� it was a city famous for its freedom.

 Chapter 426: Extra Update of the Gospel

    Chapter 426: Extra Update of the Gospel


    After leaving Meph, the Funeral group changed multiple modes of transportation and safely arrived at their destination, Fidr.


    Ashe thought Annan had some local connections here because the only entity in the Gospel they hadn��t offended was L Fatty. If no one was to wee them, they��d either face betrayal or bullets.


    ording to Annan, ��This is a city where even if you��ve offended the whole world, you can still stay hidden safely.��


    In fact, it was true.


    Fidr was the region with the weakest Gospel influence. It��s not because this ce is some forbidden magic zone where the Gospel can��t take effect, but simply because the people here are too poor to listen to the Gospel.


    Listening to the Gospel requires Gospel points, which can only be earned by being on the ranking list. Geniuses naturally climb the rankings themselves, while ordinary people can only earn points by piggybacking on their city��s points or collective points, meaning the city distributes points to all its citizens, andpanies share points with their employees.


    But there��s a catch: the ranking list spots are limited, so there are bound to be cities andpanies that don��t make the cut.


    Azura, Vamora, and Meph are all top-ranking cities. Their cities andpanies umte a good amount of points each year, which they then reinvest into further production. This creates an unshakable advantage in their respective fields, leading them to rapidly modernize and build city on the second level.


    Fidr, on the other hand, doesn��t rank on any list. Its primary existence serves to highlight how outstanding the ranking cities are.Why don��t these cities strive to catch up and create a nationally civilized city? It��s just like asking why single people don��t find a partner, why authors don��t update their works, or why people don��t dodge bullets.


    Public safety, organization, GDP, and education levels-these factors don��t operate independently but are interconnected.


    Excluding the cities like Meph and Vamora that cheat with miracles, let��s take Azura as an example: because everyone listens to the Gospel, public security is good, and everyone actively seeks education. Companies have a favorable environment to grow, raising the overall standard of the city. As a result, the city gets a good ranking, its citizens receive Gospel points, and they are even more motivated to listen to the Gospel��


    So if a city can��t make it onto any ranking list, it means it��s not just slightly behind; it��spletely in the mud��because it��s not in a positive feedback loop at all!


    Fidr is the perfect example of this. As one of the top five most populous cities, itspetitors are first-tier cities like Azura. The difference between it and Azura can be summarized in one sentence: Fidr has no schools.


    Public schools in Azura have educational pods, where everyone can receive custom-tailored education just by lying down inside. Such welfare facilities don��t exist in Fidr. It��s not that the empire doesn��t grant them; it��s that any resources sent to Fidr get dismantled and sold for money.


    This leads to Fidr��s second characteristic: Red Hat only manages the wealthy central district. Crimes urring in other parts of Fidr arepletely ignored by Red Hat.


    Lack of order,ck of education, andck of government��these are the three main features of Fidr.


    It��s not that Fidr��s citizens yearn for freedom, but rather the result of intricate andplex power struggles��simply put, the empire annually allocates points support based on city poption. Fidr��s upper echelons initially believed Fidr couldn��tpete with other cities. Hence, the points subsidy would be wasted, so they preferred to spend it themselves.


    Without points to aid governance, Fidr deteriorated day by day. However, this kind of ulcerous city attracted special attention:panies wanting to conduct shady business inwless areas, and chaos-seekers yearning to break free from Gospel restraints.


    Bribery, corruption, negligence, collusion�� what would have been exposed by the Gospel Book in other cities, flourishes here in this mire through mutual cooperation. As for Red Hat, they pretend to know nothing��being the lowest-ranked Red Hat in all of the Gospel, their non-involvement in crime is already the result of their professional pact constraints.


    After decades of gestation, Fidr haspletely devolved into a city of free chaos. Annan��s choice to take refuge here was indeed a brilliant one��don��t forget, although the people here are too poor to listen to the Gospel, Annan herself is a wealthy littledy who can afford to pray for the Gospel blessings!


    Given the wealth of her mother and Yvaren, Annan indeed seemed like a little rich girl in Ashe��s eyes. However, even a little rich girl can bring about a significant impact in Fidr, which is like an archaic society.


    Ordinary people without Gospel points couldn��t even investigate their identities. Annan prayed for a fixed ��random avatar blessing�� for the room; as long as they moved within it, their appearances would be reced with different looks in the eyes of outsiders, thus preventing any identity leaks.


    In a normal city, Annan wouldn��t dare to pray for such a blessing. In a typical Gospel spellcaster��s detection package, there are dozens of items, including miracles, spirits, blessings, etc., and for just 10 points, they can scan a hundred-meter radius for any anomalies. If Purple Moth dared to pray for a fixed blessing, it would be like openly signaling to others, ��Look at me, I��m super suspicious here!��


    But in this impoverished ce like Fidr, this blessing was incredibly practical.


    Ashe had no doubts that they could remain safely hidden here until the Weaving Festival ended.


    However, Annaning to Fidr wasn��t just for seeking refuge.


    After washing up, Ashe and Harvey returned to their seats. The room was small, and the table was tiny, making it a bit cramped for six people, but they had gotten used to it over the past few days. Once everyone was seated, Annan said, ��We can start eating now.��


    Only then did everyone start eating. Today��s breakfast was creamy macaroni, egg and bacon sandwiches, and milk tea. Banjeet said, ��This breakfast cost 32 brass


    1


    in total, and I have 73 brass left. Ashe, here you go.��


    ��Alright.�� Ashe took over the household��s finances.


    Annan asked, ��Harvey, what��s your job today?��


    ��Still working at the construction site,�� Harvey replied. ��You need to know someone to get into the morgue here, and since we won��t be staying long anyway, I��ll take it easy.��


    ��What about you, Igor?��


    ��I made friends with Miss Marsha yesterday. She agreed to let me run her fortune-telling club for a few days,�� Igor said. ��I��ll try my hand at being a fortune teller.��


    ��I n to change jobs,�� Banjeet suddenly announced.


    ��Why? Weren��t you doing well at your current odd jobs?�� Annan asked.


    ��But the boss��s youngest daughter seems to have taken a liking to me,�� Banjeet said calmly. ��Staying there longer wouldn��t be good for her.��


    ��Isn��t that a good thing?�� Igor chuckled. ��If you settle down, get married, and have kids here, that��s exactly the ��happiness�� we��re supposed to be pursuing, right?��


    ��Exactly,�� Annan concurred with a smile. ��Is she good-looking?��


    ��Stop teasing me,�� Banjeet said, remaining unemotional. ��My happiness is for Miss Yvaren to attain happiness; I desire nothing else�� Plus, after staying in the Gospel for so many years, I can��t deceive it, I can only cooperate with you all.��


    As soon as they arrived in Fidr, Ashe and the others immediately asked Annan what the next ranking list would be.


    Though Igor found it entertaining, for Ashe, Lise, and Harvey��who had no interest in intellectual games��the Ranking of Schemes left a psychological scar on them. They wouldn��t give Annan the chance to repeat the same trick.


    However, there was no need to hide the fourth ranking list. Annan told them directly that the theme of the fourth list was: Happiness.


    Under normal circumstances, Ashe and his group wouldn��t have the slightest chance of making it onto this ranking list.


    Even as outsiders full of countless possibilities for work, it wouldn��t be enough.


    No matter how happy they could be, they couldn��tpete with people like Yvaren, Qenna, and Mercury, the ruling ss wielding power and wealth. Although the Gospel implies that Ashe and his group would dominate the Gospel in the future, even then, the happiest wouldn��t be Ashe and his group, but Ashe��s children.


    What could be happier than being born with a silver spoon in your mouth?


    As for the saying, ��wealthy people aren��t happy,�� it��s a lie rich people tell to deceive the poor. After all, if everyone goes around saying, ��being rich is fantastic,�� then it��s only a matter of time before the poor hang the rich and squeeze them dry.


    However, under the premise of an inevitable Doomsday in the future, this definition of ��happiness�� takes on a different meaning.


    In a Doomsday scenario, happiness is definitely not about power or wealth. After all, society has copsed, and everyone is struggling to survive. What good is power or influence? Can you order takeout? Can you find eight people to y Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord?


    So, they quickly realized the true definition of ��happiness�� here: living.


    If a group of people can support each other, maintain a dignified life, and even keep their quality of living close to what it was before Doomsday, that��s the greatest happiness.


    That��s why Annan didn��t rent a big house in the rich district of Fidr. Instead, she rented a small ce in a chaotic urban vige. Ashe and the three other guys shared a bunk bed room, while she shared another room with Lise, aiming to simte a Doomsday-like environment. In the Kingdom of Gospel, the lives of the poor are indeed the closest to Doomsday conditions.


    To better role-y and deceive the Gospel, Annan set three rules: everyone must work andbor for a better life; living expenses shoulde from work ie, not savings; save as much as possible without affecting the quality of life.


    It��s not that Annan didn��t want to give them money, but her money was too easy to use. Just the interest from the Dn Family��s bank could allow Ashe and the others to livefortably in Fidr without lifting a finger. They might feel happy like that, but they would definitely be eliminated by the Gospel!


    And it��s precisely because of these three rules that they barely ate anything on their first day in Fidr until Harvey and Banjeet found jobs and got them back on track.


    ��Lise,�� Annan asked, ��How��s your studying going?��


    Everyone had to work, and Lise was no exception. Though she didn��t need to go out and work, she had to stay at home and study the Gospel Book. The results weren��t as tailored as the ��exclusive custom�� from an educational pod, but at least the textbooks in the Gospel Book were free and professional. They even assigned homework and practice exercises. Studying them wasn��t a loss, but it did require strong self-discipline.


    ��It��s all�� going well,�� Lise said hesitantly.


    Annan raised an eyebrow. ��Let me see your homework evaluations.��


    ��It really is going well����


    ��Stop wasting time!��


    The Purple Moth still held significant authority. Reluctantly, Lise opened her Gospel Book to the homework page and turned it around for Annan to see. Annan frowned, ��Howe all your other assignments are fine, but your math is aplete mess? The Gospel feels that your mathematical thinking, as reflected in your homework, has serious deficiencies. It even suggests you give up on this subject altogether.��


    ��What!?�� Ashe was shocked,pletely unable to believe this startling revtion. ��Did the Gospel really say that? That can��t be true!��


    ��Yes, it did,�� Annan said, blinking. ��If you care so much, have you ever helped her with her homework? How could it be this bad?��


    ��I�� I not only helped���� Ashe was on the verge of breaking down, ��She said she was toozy to do it, and I ended up doing her math assignments for her.��


    After a brief silence, Harvey was the first to stand up. ��I��m done eating, so I��ll head to work.��


    ��I��m also done.��


    ��Ashe, do you need help with the dishes?��


    ��No, it��s fine,�� Ashe muttered dejectedly, nibbling on his egg and bacon sandwich. ��I know it��s been a few years since I graduated, but still����


    After Banjeet and the others left, Annan went over and gave Lise a hug, then hugged Ashe from behind.


    ��Do we really have to do this!?�� Ashe protested.


    ��I��m the head of the household; hugging you before you leave adds weight to your day. Don��t be ungrateful!�� Annan clung on, turning it into a yful cross-lock, wrestling with Ashe early in the morning.


    After everyone left for work, Ashe began cleaning up the dishes. ��Study time starts in half an hour.��


    ��Yay!�� Lise cheered, ��Let��s y Spellcaster Duel 14 until then!��


    ��Wait until I finish the dishes.��


    Indeed, Ashe��s job was being a stay-at-home guard and babysitter.


    There were two reasons for this: firstly, Lise couldn��t be left home alone and needed someone to watch over her. Secondly, Ashe simply couldn��t show his face outside.


    Although they could change their appearance through makeup or even Miracles, as Annan and the others did, the problem was that Ashe��s ��Twisting Mask�� had a permanent effect. No matter how he changed his appearance, he would always be wearing the mask.


    Working while constantly wearing a mask would make anyone with a functioning brain suspicious. Therefore, Ashe was gloriously appointed the stay-at-home guardian.


    After finishing the dishes and gaming with Lise, Ashe began his official work.


    He used the washing machine to clean the clothes and the dryer to dry them. He moved the ironing board to a sunny spot and carefully ironed each piece. He swept and mopped the floors, cleaned the bathroom meticulously, disinfected the toilet, wiped down the windows, made the beds, and took out the trash.


    All of this was done by his Substitute.


    Ashe himself sat beside Lise, supervising her studies while also learning about the Virtual Realm, Spellcasting Sects, and knowledge creatures.


    After more than two hours, when Lise turned to nce at him for the thirteenth time, Ashe finally closed his Gospel Book. ��Let��s go out and buy some things.��


    ��Yay!��


    Ashe put on his hooded trench coat and took Lise��s hand, leading her out of the apartment building.


    Although this was a chaotic area, many years of partial order had taken root. Otherwise, it wouldn��t be an environment where ordinary people could work. The area they lived in was called the ��Salome District,�� named after thepany responsible for maintaining its order.


    Hospitals, pet shops, restaurants, cafes, e-scooter stores, general stores-these establishments, which might have migrated to online shopping in other cities, still thrived in Fidr.


    Ashe and Lise headed for the supermarket. The luxury interior was modern and impressive, clearly making shoplifting impossible.


    Passing by the snacks and sweets section, Ashe covered Lise��s eyes. ��Don��t look, don��t look. We only have 73 brass; we can��t afford it.��


    When they walked past the L Fatty special section, it was Lise who covered Ashe��s eyes, ��Don��t look, don��t look. We only have 73 brass; we can��t buy it.��


    After carefully calcting their budget and sampling some free treats, Ashe and Lise returned home withrge bags full of supplies.


    Following a simple lunch, Ashe dragged a carpet to the balcony, where he and Lisezilyy down together.


    When they woke up, it was almost 3 PM. Ashe urged Lise to resume her studies. The Substitute started preparing the ingredients for dinner, while Ashe decided to rest a little longer.


    Around 4 PM, Banjeet was the first one to return home, immediately heading to the kitchen to help out. Next came Igor, exuding a fragrant scent, probably having swindled quite a bit of money from women. Shortly after, Annan appeared, demanding that Ashe remove her stockings as soon as she stepped through the door, her attitude strikingly domineering. Finally, Harvey arrived covered in dust, getting promptly sent off to the shower.


    As night fell, the cacophony of the apartment building increased. The poor instion did nothing to muffle Fidr��s symphony. From downstairs, there were the sounds of people drinking and arguing; upstairs, someone clomped around in high-heeled boots; across the way, lights flickered on as folks watched TV dramas while eating dinner.


    Fidr��s dark streets gradually lit up. Though it couldn��tpare torger cities like Azura or Meph with their centralized lighting, the diffuse glow from residential homes did provide a sense of warmth.


    The six members of the Funeral group gathered around the round table. Once Harvey, freshly showered, took his seat, Annan dered, ��Dinner is served.��


    ��Announcing dinner once everyone is present�� was a crucial step. ording to Annan, it boosted their happiness index by 5%. However, Ashe suspected it was more of a Ritual Track Annan had implemented to emphasize her role as the head of the household.


    This was a typical day for the Funeral group, possibly the most mundane period since arriving at the Gospel. There were no immediate threats pursuing them, their safety wasn��tpromised, and the initial awkwardness had worn off. In the steam rising from the soup, time itself seemed to soften. Ashe almost forgot about the Weaving Festival, the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, and the impending Doomsday.


    Until the Gospel Book suddenly popped open.


    The glowing bookmark made a dramatic announcement to everyone present.


    ��The Gospel���� Annan murmured, ��has an extra update!?��


    <b>Footnote:</b><ol><li><b>Brass(ͭ):</b>


    Fedra Universal Currency.</li></ol>

 Chapter 427: Happiness Ranking

    Today is June 4th, only four days after the update of the ��Ranking of Schemes��, and still six days until the usual update time.


    ording to Annan��s statistics, the Gospel Book has always been known for its severe procrastination issues. The ��Art Ranking�� and ��Family Ranking�� follow the usual update patterns��they update at the veryst second of the deadline.


    Historically, there have been five asions when the Weaving Festival updates were dyed until eight o��clock the next morning. Each dy caused a panic throughout the entire Gospelmunity. Countless people couldn��t sleep, fearing that the Gospel Book was broken and that the Weaving Festival couldn��t continue. This shows how serious the psychological impact of update dys can be on the devoted readers.


    On the other hand, extra updates from the Gospel Book have never happened. Not even once. At least not in the ten Weaving Festivals that Annan has tracked. The best readers could hope for was a punctual update right at midnight. For those eagerly waiting for updates, this punctuality was considered as mercy from the Divine Sovereign, a Boon of fate.


    Therefore, when Annan and Banjeet saw the Gospel Book appear, their first reaction wasn��t joy but fear!


    Over the centuries, they had seen mountains crumble, rivers dry, thunder roar in winter, snowstorm in summer, even the convergence of heavens and earth, the Virtual Realm opening, and invasions from the ounds; but they had never seen the Gospel Book release an extra update!


    Especially for people like Annan, who work at the Firm, they knew the Gospel Book��s workings better than anyone. They understood that the Gospel Book must follow specific rules. If it vited those rules, it indicated an order from a higher authority��an Angel, or even the Divine Sovereign?


    Despite the many thoughts running through their minds, everyone swiftly opened the Gospel Book without hesitation to see thetest work.


    ��Happiness Ranking.��Ashe and the others looked at Annan with admiration��though the Young Lady had demonstrated her abilities many times before, being able to obtain urate inside information every single time made them wonder if Annan was a secret daughter of the Gospel Book.


    ��The Happiness Ranking�� 10th ce: The Happiest Wedding


    Synopsis: Daphne Barnabas and Carlos Barnabas have been lovers for ten years. Over the past decade, they have gone through countless joys and sorrows and many hardships of life. Finally, these paramours became husband and wife. On the day they got married in the Sky Garden, it marked the end of their trials and the beginning of their happiness. They will be together forever, never separated, facing countless difficulties with love�� what��s this?


    The text on the Gospel Book suddenly became blurry, and smudges appeared as if someone were forcefully altering the Weave of history. The more they smeared, the crazier it got. Not only the synopsis and ranking list but the whole page turned into a deep ck. Then, red ink spread within the ckness, forming a name everyone was very familiar with.


    ��Ashe Heath.��


    ��Huh?�� Ashe looked bewildered as everyone questioned him, ��Why are you looking at me? Look at the Young Lady! Young Lady, why is my name up there? Is this a surprise you prepared?��


    ��If I could do that, your name would be in the groom��s position,�� Annan replied irritably. ��Maybe the Gospel Book was updating and decided your wedding was happier�� hmm?��


    The ranking suddenly transitioned to video footage. The scene showed the Sky Garden in the city on the second level, with a bright, non-ring sky overhead. Below was a magnificent and prosperous city, with snow-capped mountains in the distance. The view was as beautiful as a fairy tale. Guests in the garden were dressed elegantly, and children were adorable and well-behaved. As the band yed, colorful flowers swayed, spreading rainbow hues. The joy almost seemed to leap out of the image and infect the viewers.


    ��Looks pretty boring,��mented Harvey. ��If it were my wedding����


    Ashe thought he was beginning to understand the necromancer��s mindset. ��It would be set in a graveyard?��


    ��Of course not, I have somemon sense too. A wedding should be held in a lively, thrilling ce with lots of people,�� Harvey replied seriously. ��For example, a battlefield after a great war, with corpses strewn about, rivers of blood, soil soaked with blood, and air full of lingering thoughts. It would be the perfect junction between life and death. Getting married in a battlefield would be incredibly romantic.��


    Though Ashe wanted to argue, he realized that getting married on a battlefield strewn with blood and valor did sound rather romantic.


    ��Dad, snap out of it!�� Lise rushed over, shaking him. ��Don��t listen, don��t feel, don��t think, or you��ll be studying the Necromancy Sect!��


    The mention of studying woke Ashe up instantly. He quickly patted Lise��s head to anchor his taste. No wonder necromancers like Harvey, destined to serve deities, could be so persuasive; his mere words nearly dragged Ashe into the realm of the dead.


    ��The location is fine, but there are too many people,�� Igormented indifferently. ��How many of those guests are genuinely offering their blessings? Those kids do nothing but cause trouble. The band is too noisy; recing them with a pianist would be much better����


    ��Are you nning your wedding with Anfel already?�� Ashe asked. ��Make sure to send me an invite.��


    Igor nced at him. ��Rest assured, I will make sure you��re not on my guest list.��


    Lise asked, ��Dad, what kind of wedding do you want?��


    ��To be honest, I��d rather skip such a grand ritual. It makes me feel like a sacrificial offering,�� Ashe confessed.


    ��Absolutely not!�� Annan and Lise simultaneously denied such a rebellious notion.


    ��A wedding is a very, very important moment. Most fairy tales end with a wedding as the epitome of happiness!�� Lise said earnestly.


    ��That��s right!�� Annan added. ��It��s a once-in-a-lifetime event. Miss it, and it��s gone forever!��


    ��Not necessarily a once-in-a-lifetime���� Ashe muttered.


    At this point, the footage finally reached the wedding ceremony. The couple, dressed in a princess gown and a mage��s robe, made their entrance. Weddings in the Kingdom of the Gospel also bore the influence of the Gospel Book: the couple wrote each other��s names on their respective Gospel Book covers, and the names were preserved forever.


    This step didn��t hold any practical significance; the Gospel wouldn��t grant newlyweds an 80% discount. However, within the Gospel tradition, this gesture symbolized the highest level ofmitment. To put it into modern context, it��s like using couple avatars on social media profiles, wearing wedding rings on your ring fingers, tattooing your lover��s name on your lower back, and stamping ��approved�� on a certified quality pig. Essentially, when you brandish your Gospel Book, everyone knows you��ve partnered up in the game of life.


    When this ��happiest couple�� officially recognized by the Gospel appeared on screen, everyone disyed understanding expressions. Although the groom was handsome and the bride was beautiful, they bore a striking resemnce.


    In simpler terms, it was evident to anyone with eyes that they were biological siblings.


    Even in the open society of the Gospel Kingdom, a sibling romance was a highly sensitive topic. Unless the family was wealthy enough to use a Miracle to adjust their genes, not even the Gospel would rmend childbirth.


    Understanding this, one could see why this wedding deserved to be described as the ��happiest.�� Not only did others try to intervene, but the Gospel itself would also use every possible tactic to prevent their union. It would arrange for the sister to meet more suitable partners and for the brother to be pursued by more appropriate girls, all in the name of a better life, ording to the Gospel��s original n.


    Their suffering stemmed from their desire to break free from the Gospel��s constraints. Had they ever listened to the Gospel��s guidance or followed its arrangements even once, their hardships would have vanished, and happiness would have been easily within reach.


    But they didn��t, so the Gospel conceded. This oue was its pre-emptivepensation.


    The bride and groom exchanged eye contact. Whaty in their eyes wasn��t an all-consuming, all-melting passion, nor a casual, familial gaze. Instead, their pupils reflected a world where only the other existed, everything else mere dust. The closestparison might be the fervent look Harvey had when discussing the Necromancy Sect, a passion few others could match.


    This was a profound, heart-searing madness. When it was reciprocated, it became a happiness that not even the Gospel could dismantle.


    As the newlyweds sat at the stone table, exchanged Gospel Books, and took up pens to sign the covers, the video footage suddenly flickered.


    In the next second, a sword abruptly shed through the stone table in the sky garden, causing everyone to jump in fright.


    ��To be honest, I don��t like grand rituals like these. It makes me feel like a sacrificial offering. If it were up to me, I��d skip them and fast forward to the more intimate moments.��


    Everyone instinctively nced at Ashe at the sound of those familiar words.


    Ashe remained calm: ��Confirmed, the Gospel has been copying my real-time reviews.��


    The long sword��s hilt was gripped by someone who had appeared in the garden��s center, d in a dark red trench coat. Before he even spoke, the surrounding guests began to panic and scream in terror.


    ��Ashe Heath!��


    ��The Undying Fiend Heath!��


    ��Cmity Demon Lord!��


    ��Source of Cmity!��


    ��He actually resurrected!?��


    Hearing thements, Ashe and the others felt an incrediblyplex mix of emotions. Before they could discuss it, the footage changed dramatically again��


    White mist-like spirits enveloped the entire wedding site, even robbing sunlight of its warmth. A mist spirit reached Ashe��s side, transforming into a cloaked vagabond.


    ��Necromancer King Harvey!�� The guests erupted into chaos: ��If even he is here, then that means����


    A well-dressed guest suddenly approached Ashe, removing his hat and sses to reveal his sleek, shoulder-length blonde hair and dazzlingly handsome face. The moment he revealed himself, a quarter of the guests promptly drew weapons and changed allegiances. They raised their left hands adorned with crow feather gloves, detaining the other guests.


    ��Rust Crow!�� The guests�� voices trembled, ��Why, why would one of the Three Great Harbingers of Doomsday appear here?��


    Darn it, Three Great Harbingers of Doomsday? Ashe couldn��t contain himself anymore.


    Here I am, Ashe, an honest young man, having done nothing wrong, and somehow I��m mentioned in the same breath as Igor and Harvey!?

 Chapter 428: The Culprit

    Pffft.


    Annan couldn��t help butugh out loud. Banjeet��s mouth twitched as he struggled to hold back, while Lise excitedly hugged Ashe, jumping around. ��Dad, you��re amazing! Cmity Demon Lord! Source of Cmity! One of the Three Great Harbingers of Doomsday�� Wait, what about me?��


    ��I raised you to be a super fatso, so you don��t dare to show your face,�� Ashe said very seriously. ��You��d stay in your room all day ying games and watching TV dramas. If I urge you to work, you��d yell at me, and if I disturb your games, you��d call me a stinky old man����


    ��Impossible, when Lise grows up, she��ll be a super gorgeous beauty!�� Lise spread her arms to emphasize that she��s not just any beauty but a super beauty. ��And how could Lise ever hate Dad!��


    ��You said something simr when you were young,�� Ashe looked at Annan. ��Like, I��ll never hate Mom or something����


    Annan: ��Of course not!��


    Banjeet: ��Yes, you did.��


    The youngdy red fiercely at the young butler. He shrugged and closed his mouth.


    ��Enough arguing,�� Igor frowned. ��This ranking list�� is very strange.��Everyone nodded. They all noticed that the Happiness Ranking waspletely different from the previous three lists-the wedding guests were very familiar with Ashe and the others and could even call out nicknames like ��Three Great Harbingers of Doomsday.�� Clearly, they had seen the Future Ranking!


    At this point, one has to discuss a question rted to the Weaving Festival: Since people can see the woven future, if it��s something good, that��s fine, but if it��s something bad, wouldn��t people try to avoid it?


    The most obvious example is the Ranking of Schemes. It has many victims, including the ranked individuals themselves. If they��ve seen the Ranking of Schemes, wouldn��t they still fall for Igor��s tricks?


    Although they would, it isn��t because fate forcibly corrects the course. It��s simply due to Igor��s personal abilities. And even Igor himself can��t act strictly ording to the Ranking of Schemes.


    In other words, the moment the Ranking of Schemes is announced, it ceases to be the future. Therefore, the Gospel would have to weave a Ranking of Schemes 2.0. However, once everyone sees the 2.0 version, they would naturally avoid the schemes it contains, forcing the Gospel to weave versions 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, and so on��


    Clearly, such an infinite loop is impossible. Hence, when the Gospel weaves the future, there is usually an implicit assumption: the people involved have not seen the Weaving Festival.


    This is a very reasonable assumption and does notpromise the uracy of the Weaving Festival. Most of the time, even if there are discrepancies between the future and the ranking list, the differences are not drastic. Out of ten lists or a hundred rankings, at most seven or eight might be significantly off, a quality level everyone can ept.


    Moreover, most ranking lists are Character Rankings, which have the smallest margin of error. Event Rankings can easily haverge discrepancies, but most events are positive. Thus, people are happy to follow the Gospel, with some even deliberately trying to perfectly replicate the events woven by the Weaving Festival.


    Ranking lists like the Ranking of Schemes and the Family Ranking, which are purely negative events, are rare phenomena, likely only possible within the chaotic context of Doomsday. In a stable and prosperous society, Harvey and Igor would have been chased to the Abyss by the Red Hat as soon as they appeared. There wouldn��t be any ��Top Ten Families�� or ��Top Ten Schemes.��


    But the Happiness Ranking breaks this implicit assumption!


    The individuals in it have all seen the Weaving Festival. They know about Rust Crow Igor and Necromancy Harvey, they know Ashe died and came back to life, and they even gave them the idol group name ��Three Great Harbingers of Doomsday!��


    It��s like ying a New Game Plus where the NPCs remember everything you did in your first ythrough.


    ��Ashe Heath���� The bride Daphne remained calm, shielding her brother Carlos behind her, and said steadily, ��Are you here to attend our wedding?��


    ��That��s right,�� Ashe replied. ��To be precise, I��m here to crash the wedding.��


    As he reached out, Daphne pped his hand away forcefully. Her chest heaving with anger, she stared directly at him. ��We were strangers before this. Why would you target us?��


    ��Just as you know me, I know you,�� Ashe said, unperturbed, spreading his hands. ��Tenth on the Happiness Ranking: Daphne and Carlos. When I saw you two on the list, I decided to steal your future.��


    ��Really?�� Annan asked suddenly. ��You��re nning to crash the wedding right now?��


    Lise, equally shocked, stared at Ashe. ��Dad, you actually like stealing other people��s brides?��


    ��Are you focusing on the wrong thing here?�� Ashe��s mouth twitched. ��Don��t you see? The ��Ashe�� in there mentioned the tenth ce on the Happiness Ranking��meaning he saw the Happiness Ranking and then crashed the events in the Happiness Ranking. And now the current Happiness Ranking has woven him into the list!��


    Before the Happiness Ranking had even finished broadcasting, the people in it had already seen the Happiness Ranking and were acting ording to the rankings��


    A surreal sense of absurdity rose in everyone��s hearts. If the wedding before ��Ashe�� appeared was a normal future, then the wedding after ��Ashe�� appeared became apound futureyered over multiple ythroughs. While thetter may be closer to reality, it was also more chaotic.


    ��Why?�� Daphne asked. ��This wedding will soon be over; there��s nothing worth coveting����


    ��I told you, it��s you two I truly want,�� Ashe smiled. ��You are the future chosen by the Gospel. Just defiling you is enough to excite me! Take them away����


    ��No!�� Daphne��s hands glowed blue as she resolutely dered, ��I will never let you seed!��


    ��Really? I know you don��t care about the guests, but don��t you care about your lover, your brother?�� Ashe��s voice was like a devil��s whisper. ��You don��t want to give up this hard-earned happiness, do you?��


    ��I��m not aplete viin; I don��t necessarily want to tear you apart. As long as you obediently submit to me, I��ll still give you time together.�� He spoke slowly, ��You will have a cozy little home, bear children, and grow old together�� You��re just one step away. Are you really willing to give that up?��


    Faced with such threats and intimidation, Daphne slowly copsed to the ground, crying, ��I haven��t done anything wrong, so why is this happening����


    Annan and Lise were no longer hiding their disdainful looks. Ashe felt the need to rify, ��This is absolute nder. I am a pure, pollution-free knight of love. At most, I might bully the weak, but I never abuse my power.��


    ��But why would the Gospel nder you out of nowhere?�� Lise countered. ��Dad, shouldn��t you reflect on whether you��ve done something that might have given the Gospel the wrong impression?��


    ��Impossible. The only women I interact with now are you and the Young Lady,�� Ashe protested. ��I consider myself lucky if you don��t sleep on my stomach, and as for the Young Lady, she��s the one being inappropriate with me!��


    ��Really?�� Annan asked. ��Do you truly have no impure thoughts about me?��


    ��Of course not���� Ashe suddenly remembered the synthesized video footage he��d bought from Yvaren. ����None at all (very softly).��


    The footage continued.


    ��You��ve made a wise decision,�� Ashe said cheerfully. ��Take them away!��


    Two crow feather guests approached. Daphne, feeling utterly defeated, let herself copse to the ground, offering no resistance as they reached out to take her-


    ��Hey? Hey!��


    Daphne watched in shock as they took her brother Carlos away. She quickly stood up and asked, ��Why are you taking Carlos!?��


    ��We intended to take Carlos from the start,�� Ashe exined. ��In the future foretold by the Gospel, Carlos��s talents are what we need. What did you think was going to happen?��


    ��W-What about me?�� Daphne asked, bewildered.


    ��Interested in joining the Four Pirs Cult?�� Rust Crow said. ��We could use someone with your social skills.��


    This unexpected twist left everyone speechless. Ashe immediately grew smug. Annan avoided his gaze, and Lise, trying to return to her seat, was pulled back by him. She could only sheepishly say, ��I��ve always believed in you, Dad����


    ��Believed what? That I��m a viin? That I like other people��s wives? That I can��t find a girlfriend without threats, temptations, or hypnosis?�� Ashe asked, baring his teeth in frustration.


    ��Ashe, I��ve always believed in you,�� Igor suddenly raised his hand and said.


    ��Tsk tsk tsk, Lise, look even Aunt Bukin-��


    ��I believe you have self-awareness.��


    ��Harvey, could you throw that box of roaches onto Igor��s bed?��


    ��Ashe, I have to criticize you,�� Harvey said earnestly. ��Wasting food is wrong.��


    While they were chatting, the footage finally ended, and the Gospel Book switched back to the ranking list:


    ��Happiness Ranking, 10th ce: The Happiest Wedding��


    ��Synopsis: Daphne Barnabas and Carlos Barnabas have been lovers for ten years. Over the past decade, they have gone through countless joys and sorrows and many hardships of life. Finally, these paramours became husband and wife. On the day they got married in the Sky Garden, it marked the end of their trials and the beginning of their happiness. They will be together forever, never separated, facing countless difficulties with love�� and they would go on to create�� but due to the interference of Ashe Heath and others, this ranking is invalid.��


    ��Reward: Voided.��


    ��Culprit: Ashe Heath.��


    ��How is this my fault?�� Ashe was bewildered. ��So if the sun doesn��t rise tomorrow, are you going to me that on me too?��


    ��Annan,�� Igor asked, ��Has there ever been a case where a ranking was invalid and the reward voided?��


    ��No.�� Annan pondered. ��Compared to the past, the future portrayed in this ranking is also quite different. This is the first time I��ve seen characters within the ranking mention the ranking itself.��


    ��Ashe��s actions were also bizarre,�� Igor added. ��Would he really target the tenth ce just to ��defile the Gospel��? And why didn��t Harvey and I object? We��re not that idle.��


    ��Invalid ranking, a culprit crashing the event, voided rewards, and early updates���� Annan bit her lip gently, ��When these factors are pieced together����


    ��It sounds like the author rushed to meet a deadline and churned out a pile of crap,�� Ashe concluded.

 Chapter 429: Igors Daughter

    ��Happiness Ranking, 9th ce: The Happiest Child��


    Upon seeing this ranking, the people at the Funeral heaved a sigh of relief��there��s no way they could possibly make another appearance this time, right?


    Although there was the possibility of them appearing as the ��parental generation,�� considering the futures of Ashe and his two friends, it seemed unlikely. One was destined to be a career con artist, another was a wanderer with no interest in the living, and the third had just wed his way out of hell. Where would any of them find time to have children? Would Ashe have children with a Bewitcher in hell?


    ��Synopsis: Leia Bukin is the daughter of Anfel Belldate and Igor Bukin. From birth, she was destined to be the heir to the Belldate name, master of Meph, and the sole inheritor of the Dominance Sect. Moreover, after Archibald brought peace to all the nspeople of Belldate, Leiapletely broke free from the bloodline curse. She grew up showered with affection from her parents, and whenever she went out, followers of the Four Pirs Cult protected her from the shadows. Her life was carefree and����


    Just like thest ranking list, the synopsis text suddenly started to distort, and soon the entire page was ckened, with blood-red ink forming a name everyone was sick of seeing: ��Ashe Heath.��


    At this point, no one cared about the mutation in the Gospel Ranking. Their eyes were fixed on the con artist with peculiar expressions.


    Igor��s face didn��t show any surprise, only a thoughtful look.


    At that moment, the left half of his body suddenly ignited with grey mes. Though they didn��t scorch his clothes or skin, the mes quickly spread, attempting to engulf his entire body!


    ��What��s happening?�� This sudden attack put everyone on high alert. Banjeet and Annan immediately started to scout the surroundings, but the con artist, whose face was being burned on one side, remained calm: ��No need to panic, Ashe, give me a hand.��As Igor extended his hand, almost entirely turned into a torch of grey mes, Ashe didn��t hesitate and grabbed it. The grey mes whooshed along Ashe��s arm, eliciting gasps from the others, but Ashe only felt a slight chill. Then the mes returned to Igor, but this time they quickly extinguished, as if nothing had happened at all.


    ��Yvaren just activated a domination Miracle, trying to distort my perception while I was in shock, making me go back to be Belldate��s son-inw,�� Igor exined. ��I have to admit, this miracle is quite creative. The abstract act of ��distorting perception�� actually manifests as mes, speeding up the process through the phenomenon of burning�� Great, I��ve learned it.��


    ��So, was having me help you a necessary step to resolve it?�� Ashe asked. ��Do I have some mind-control nullification effect?��


    ��No, I just wanted to scare you a bit,�� Igor replied.


    ��Wait, if Yvaren is trying to send Aunt Bukin back now, and the ranking list mentioned Aunt Bukin��s daughter���� Lise said, ��Does that mean Anfel already has little Leia!?��


    ��Igor, you scoundrel! You yed and ran!�� Ashe gasped. ��How could you have done it in just a few days�� You must have used hypnosis! Teach me!��


    ��Who was the one who lured me into the car in the first ce!?�� Igor��s lips twitched. ��And I think I understand what��s going on with this ranking list�� The youngdy should have figured it out too. If you all still end up as clueless artiodact after we finish watching the ranking list, I��ll exin it to you.��


    ��Yeah,�� Annan nodded in agreement, ��This Gospel Ranking will be unexpected for everyone.��


    Since the two smartest people in the group had spoken, everyone continued to watch the ranking.


    The screen had switched to video footage, showing little Leia��s happy life from birth. She was lovingly cared for by her mother, allowed to grow freely in the Belldate manor. asionally, her father would take her out to witness magnificentndscapes and experience the hardships of the world, which nurtured her kind heart andpassion for the weak. Born into wealth, she naturally developed a disciplined character, possessed an insightful understanding of human nature, and excelled in empathy. Aside from a bit of stubbornness and mischief, Leia almost perfectly embodied the best qualities of both her parents.


    It��s enough to make anyone envy-Igor, do you and your friends have any ns for more children? Can I make a reservation to be born into this family?


    ��Eight-year-old Leia was ying in the garden when the scene suddenly flickered, and Ashe appeared behind her out of nowhere.��


    ����Leia, nice to meet you,�� Ashe said, ��I��m Ashe Heath������


    ����I know, Uncle Ashe!�� Leia looked up and said, ��Aunt Yvaren and Mom talk about you all the time! Are you here to see Dad?����


    ����No, Leia, I��m here to see you,�� Ashe squatted down in front of Leia, ��I��m here to take you away.����


    ��Leia tilted her head and extended her hands towards Ashe, ��Okay, where are we going to y?����


    ����You make it look so normal; you��re making me feel unimportant,�� Asheughed.��


    ����Because Uncle Harvey and Aunt Annan often take me out to y like this,�� Leia said, wrinkling her nose and pouting. ��Aunt Annan takes me to fun ces all around Gospel, and Uncle Harvey likes to show me histest necromancy inventions������


    ����How do you like it?�� Ashe asked with a smile, ��I��ve heard that Igor often takes you out too. Which one do you think is the most fun?����


    ����They��re all really fun!�� Leia said cheerfully. ��Dad also takes me out sometimes, but he does it more to teach me how to control situations with people��ordinary folks, the wealthy, humans, elves, men, women, the strong, the weak�� He doesn��t want me to exploit others, but Bukin��s daughter needs to know the world��s operating rules. And even though myst name isn��t Belldate, I still have to grasp the principle of ��Increase what they desire, gift what they need.������


    ����And Aunt Annan has friends everywhere. When I follow her, I get to meet many interesting people and see lots of beautiful ces. Uncle Harvey, although he only takes me to different graveyards, always shows me new things each time. It seems like he��s constantly making progress in necromancy. Just recently, he managed to create his first Blood Corpse King�� All my uncles and aunts are awesome.����


    ����Really? But I think you��re more amazing than all of them,�� Ashe said. ��Harvey��s Necromancy Sect is indeed impressive, but even we can��t appreciate the allure of death like he does. Igor��s mental domination has reached perfection, but we all find it hard to ept his cold and indifferent attitude. And as for Annan, don��t even get me started; I don��t like traveling and can��t understand the joy of wandering around.����


    ����Only you possess eyes that can appreciate all the beauty,�� Ashe smiled. ��It must be the blessings of the Belldate ancestors that brought forth such a perfect child like you. The truly fortunate ones should be Igor and Anfel.����


    ����Then why don��t you and Aunt Annan have a baby too?�� Leia said yfully.��


    ����That��s why I can��t let Gospel spoil you,�� Ashe��s smile faded, ��I��m here to take you away.����


    ����Where to? To Uncle Ashe��s hometown?����


    ����There��s no need to go anywhere. When I say take you away, I don��t mean physically,�� Ashe exined. ��Leia, do you know you��re recognized as the Happiest Child in Gospel?����


    ����I know,�� Leia nodded. ��I also know that I genuinely am the happiest child������


    ����No, you��re not truly happy. Your current happiness is merely a shackle added by Gospel,�� Ashe said. ��Have you ever wondered why you��re so perfect? You��re confident but not arrogant, intelligent yet humble, high-born yetpassionate towards the weak�� As a child, almost no one has ever been disappointed in you.����


    ����Isn��t that a good thing!����


    ����Of course it is, but if we ce you in a morepetitive environment, like the homnd of Igor and me, what do you think would happen?�� Ashe spread his hands. ��You would still not disappoint anyone; you��d quickly be an admirable and sessful figure envied by many.����


    ����Gospel ims that your happinesses from your family, your environment, and luck. But in truth, your happinesses from within. You learn whatever you��re taught��humility,passion, appreciation, reflection�� But what if they taught you different things?����


    ��Leia stared nkly at Ashe, as if she couldn��t fullyprehend what he was saying.��


    ����Why does Gospel want you to be the Happiest Child?�� Ashe said. ��Because it doesn��t dare weave a future where you��re unhappy. By simply tapping into your talents, you can grow to a level that threatens Gospel.����


    ����Sanctuary is just the beginning for you. Even a legend would only be a brief stop, and being an angel isn��t even your final destination.����


    ����You are the only one in fifty years whose innate talent alone is enough to threaten the Divine Sovereign.����


    ����Leia, you are naturally born a force of chaos. Any disaster would serve as nourishment for you. For you, rebelling against fate and overturning paradise is as instinctual as eating and dressing.����


    ����You became the Happiest Child because Gospel is doing everything it can to suppress you. Igor and Anfel might have noticed your talent, but the alternative path is too long and arduous. So they, too, follow Gospel��s n, ensuring you live a happy and secure life��they love you.����


    ������Increase what they desire, gift what they need�� isn��t just the motto of the Dominance Sect but also the operating principle of Gospel. Even the descendants of Belldate, even the greatest Con Artist in history, cannot escape this trap.����


    ������Why are you telling me this?�� Leia asked.��


    ����Because I��m going to take you away,�� Ashe stood up and said. ��And now, I��ve already seeded.����


    ��When Ashe left the garden, Leia sat there in a daze. The scene suddenly turned deep and dark, with a bright pathid out before her. But Leia turned her head to look at another blood-red path in the shadows.��


    ��She ultimately stepped onto the dark, bloody path. She grew up quickly, sprouting silver wings, then golden wings, and finally rainbow wings�� As she became more and more beautiful, the innocence faded from her face, reced by a profound and daunting presence and resolute eyes.��


    ��Happiness Ranking, 9th ce


    : The Happiest Child��


    ��Synopsis: Leia Bukin, daughter of Anfel Belldate and Igor Bukin, her ranking is invalid due to the influence of Ashe Heath.��


    ��Reward: Voided.��


    ��Culprit: Ashe Heath.��


    The sheer volume of information left everyone momentarily silent.


    ��Dad,�� Lise looked at Ashe with a touch of annoyance, ��you��ve never praised me like that����


    ��But I need a reason to praise you,�� Ashe replied. ��Should Imend you for eating quickly and a lot?��


    ��But how could you shower a little girl you met just once with so many tteringments? Are other people��s children really that amazing?!�� Lise stomped her foot in frustration.


    ��Well, then���� Ashe cleared his throat. ��Lise, you are naturally born a force of chaos. Any food will turn into nourishment for you. For you, eating and sleeping are as instinctive as breathing����


    ��That��s so perfunctory!��


    While fending off Lise��s disgruntled attacks, Ashe turned to the Con Artist and said seriously, ��Igor, I promise, I would never do that to your daughter����


    ��You don��t need to exin,�� Igor interrupted. ��Just like I won��t exin why the ranking list shows me marrying Anfel and having children. Let��s continue reading.��


    ��Leia, your daughter Leia, has the talent to be a Divine Sovereign!��


    In the Belldate manor, a blue-haired girl was jumping for joy, hugging her sister tightly. ��Did you see that? Your child willpletely break free from the curse of our bloodline! Don��t worry, Anfel. I��ll make sure Igores back to you. Then you can have Leia, and we��ll raise her to be a legend, no, an angel!��


    Anfel knew her sister��s happiness was genuine, but there was no doubt she also wanted to use Leia for her own ends.


    Although Anfel had shared the ��Kingdom Coin,�� which could protect one��s will, with her sister, trying to restore her to normalcy, Yvaren��s will was actually not the issue. She had justpletely separated her emotions from her reason, so no amount of passion would sway her cold-blooded decisions.


    ��Yvaren,�� Anfel said once her sister had calmed down, ��I think you shouldn��t get your hopes up too high����


    ��Don��t worry, once I bring Igor back, I have plenty of ways to make him breed: manual stimtion, electric stimtion, all sorts of miracles one after another!�� Evaline proudly raised her head, ��Even if it doesn��t work, it has to work!��


    ��I have no doubt about Mr. Igor��s abilities, but the biggest problem now is the future rankings.��


    ��Hmm?�� Yvaren was taken aback, ��What��s wrong with the rankings?��


    At this moment, the Gospel Book updated. Anfel looked down, and her expression immediately turned very strange, ��Take a look and you��ll see.��


    Yvaren looked down.


    ��Happiness Ranking, 8th ce: The Happiest Wife��


    ��Synopsis: Nalber Harvey, wife of Archibald Harvey, is the happiest wife����

 Chapter 430: Ashes Harem

    The footage of the 8th ce on the ��Happiness Ranking,�� titled ��The Happiest Wife,�� had just finished airing.


    In short, Harvey made a significant breakthrough in the Necromancy Sect, creating a perfect undead wife. This wifepletely understood Harvey��s preferences, kept up with his pace of thinking, and loved him wholeheartedly. Her happiest moments were spending time researching with Harvey, and his progress was her source of joy. In this regard, she indeed deserved the description of being the ��happiest,�� as typical couples would have arguments and secrets, whereas they fit together like a perfectly matched puzzle.


    At first nce, it seemed quite logical.


    Then, as usual, Ashe made an appearance, and with just a few words, he enlightened the wife about her potential as an undead. To better assist Harvey, she decided to be a necromancer as an undead, no longer content with being merely Harvey��s dependent!


    At first nce, it seemed quite inspiring.


    Because she chose the second path, she naturally was no longer the happiest wife, her ranking is invalid, and the reward is voided..


    To most people, this future scenario seemed reasonable: a necromancer creating an undead bride that satisfies his every sexual fetish wasn��t unusual, right? And distributing the position of the happiest wife to an undead creature as a nod to minority inclusion on the Gospel Ranking seemed quite politically correct, didn��t it?


    But for those who knew Harvey, this was absurdity to the max��if Harvey really needed an undead for sexual function, he wouldn��t have only one undead, and that being Alice (��)!


    Yes, Harvey did have someone he liked before, but those feelings arose before he delved deeply into the Necromancy Sect, much like cicadas in summer��once missed, never to return.Even if someone else liked him now, Harvey, engulfed in the cold winter of necromancy, could never embrace summer again.


    Therefore, Harvey now only looked at people��s functionality, not their sexual function.


    This was something Ashe and Igor had much to say about. Over the past few days, sharing bunk beds with no private space had given Harvey plenty of time to observe them. He had meticulously nned various undead enhancements for them��ghoul enhancements for their hands, bone demon enhancements for their legs, lich enhancements for their hearts�� When Harvey looked at people, it was really no different from how one would evaluate cuts of pork.


    And after all, a partner is ultimately for emotionalfort. However, as a madman so powerful that he didn��t even need friends, Harvey didn��t need any emotionalfort. In the dead of night, he wouldn��t be wallowing in nostalgia; he��d be incessantly nning his own death scenes.


    ��Harvey,�� Ashe asked, ��what are your thoughts on this?��


    ��I don��t rule out the possibility of having a mental breakdown in the future,�� Harvey replied calmly. ��Who knows, I mighte up with new ideas when I see Igor getting married? After all, human emotions are regted by hormones, and reproduction is one of the major concerns of those hormones. It��s not surprising if I sumb to biological instincts.��


    ��But undead can��t reproduce����


    ��Hmm?�� Harvey looked at Ashe with a peculiar expression. ��Isn��t reproduction essentially creating a new, intelligent life?��


    ��So, you still haven��t���� Ashe trailed off, suddenly catching up with Harvey��s line of thought��in a certain sense, necromancers did indeed reproduce.


    ��So, isn��t she both your daughter and your wife?�� Igor said casually.


    ��Igor, have you lost your mind? I didn��t even say that out loud!�� Ashe hastily covered Lise��s ears. ��There are kids here, mind your influence!��


    Lise broke free from Ashe��s hands. ��Aunt Bukin, tell me more, I want to hear.��


    Ashe: ����(�����|||)��?��


    Next up, in 7th ce, was The Happiest Red Hat, and the lucky winner was none other than someone everyone knew��Cleos. Before they could finish introducing her glorious achievements, Ashe swooped in. Just like before, he easily lured Cleos away, and Cleos seemed to be Ashe��s simp. Resulting in another ranking invalid and the rewards voided.


    The 6th ce was The Happiest Merchant, featuring the honorable appearance of Yvaren. Character introduction, Ashe��s swoop-in, and recruiting her as ackey��


    The 5th ce��


    The ranking continued to grow more outrageous, featuring people who were almost all somehow rted to Ashe and his group. In each piece of footage, Ashe made an inevitable appearance, using various methods to divert the ranked individuals from their original paths, leading them to follow Ashe instead.


    And the most absurd part was that nearly all the unmarried females in the ranking, including Cleos, Yvaren, and others, disyed strong affection for Ashe. Ashe seriously doubted whether the Gospel Ranking had misidentified his race��he was human, not a Bewitcher!


    A well-meaning ��Happiness Ranking�� had morphed into Ashe��s personal collection tour, turning the Gospel Ranking into a matrimonial Firm.


    Lise clung to Ashe like a ko, earnestly picking out potential stepmoms, critiquing them for being too short or not gentle enough, as if Ashe had any real say in the matter.


    ��Happiness Ranking, 2nd ce: The Happiest Patriarch��


    Seeing this title, even though Ashe had already gotten used to the absurdity of the ranking list, he still couldn��t shake the sense of foreboding.


    ��Synopsis: With the help of her sister Nona Senhaeser, Qenna Senhaeser has sessfully expanded their Family����


    Lise keenly noticed Ashe��s body suddenly bing tense and asked, ��Dad, why do you get nervous when you see Annan��s mom?��


    Annan turned to look at him.


    ��No way!�� Ashe quickly shook his head. ��I��m nervous because I��m scared! Qenna almost captured our Sanctuary spellcaster. Isn��t it perfectly normal for someone to be afraid of her?��


    Lise and Annan gave Ashe a suspicious look before looking back at the footage.


    The initial scenes were quite normal, depicting Qenna building up the Senhaeser Family with Nona��s support. Until a familiar scene shed by and ��Ashe�� suddenly appeared in the frame.


    ��You!�� Qenna immediately stood up, tense. ��Why are you here!?��


    ��Isn��t it perfectly normal for me to be here?�� Ashe walked up to Qenna. ��Haven��t you always wanted me to be a Senhaeser nsman? Now that I��m home, you��re not happy?��


    As he spoke, he reached a hand towards Qenna, only for her to p it away. ��Ashe, the Senhaeser Family does not wee you. Hurry up and����


    ��Ashe pressed Qenna back into the chair, their faces so close that their noses nearly touched.��


    ����Manners,�� Ashe said, staring at her. ��Your heart is racing. Are you nervous?����


    ����It��s fear. I��m scared of you!�� Qenna gritted her teeth. ��Ashe, how dare you������


    ����You got it wrong again.�� Ashe gently touched Qenna��s face. ��What are you supposed to call me, hmm?����


    ��Qenna��s face turned bright red. The mighty Sanctuary Red Hat didn��t dare to resist but instead leaned stiffly against the chair, her chest heaving as she averted her gaze and bit her lower lip. ��Master������


    ��The next scene shifted to arge bed.��


    ��Banjeet, help me out here.��


    ��Sure.��


    Ashe and Banjeet quickly shielded Lise��s eyes and ears, instantly cutting her off from the global channel. Lise was, of course, defiant, squirming and protesting, ��Why can��t I watch Dad and Aunt Qenna!? Let me watch, I wanna see! Did they kiss?��


    They didn��t.


    Given that the footage was meant for the entire Gospel audience, the depiction was quite mild. The screen only showed Ashe lying alone in bed, covered with a nket, which was enough to make him breathe a sigh of relief.


    Inside the Senhaeser building, a maid who saw this scene gasped.


    ��It��s true after all!��


    ��What they told me was spot on! I thought it was just a lie�� but that man really is intimate with the heads of the family����


    ��The Patriarch, even she would act coquettishly! She even begged him, begged him to stop�� I couldn��t have imagined this scene even in my wildest dreams!��


    ��Happiness Ranking, 2nd ce: The Happiest Patriarch��


    ��Synopsis: Qenna Senhaeser could have be the happiest Patriarch with the help of Nona Senhaeser, but unfortunately, she encountered Ashe Heath, bing his captive. This ranking is invalid.��


    ��Reward: Voided��


    ��Culprit: Ashe Heath��


    When the 2nd ce on the ��Happiness Ranking�� ended, the room suddenly fell into silence.


    The atmosphere was so heavy that even the mental spellcaster, Heath, couldn��t think of anything to lighten the mood.


    Lise gave Ashe a resentful nce, then turned to Annan and said, ��Sister Annan����


    Although the greeting was still as mundane as ever, at this moment, the title ��Sister Annan�� seemed to carry a new meaning.


    Annan nced at them expressionlessly and then looked down, saying, ��The first ce has been updated.��


    ��Happiness Ranking, 1st ce: The Happiest Empress��


    ��Synopsis: ����


    There wasn��t even a synopsis for the first ce. It transitioned directly to the footage, and this time, the Gospel Book didn��t even bother with a pretense, featuring Ashe right from the start.


    ��In a grand pce, Ashe loungedzily on the throne at the top, with a young empress sitting on hisp, her back to the camera, obscuring her face. She held Ashe��s neck intimately, looking like the favored consort of the Cmity Demon Lord.��


    The footage ended.


    ��Happiness Ranking, 1st ce: The Happiest Empress��


    ��Synopsis: With Ashe Heath involved, ranking invalid.��


    ��Reward: Voided��


    ��Culprit: Ashe Heath��


    Ashe closed the Gospel Book with a sense of immense relief.


    This was the most ufortable ranking list he had ever seen because he appeared as the viin from start to finish.


    Unlike the Family Ranking, where he was at most ackey, with the chief culprit being the necromancer Harvey, in the Happiness Ranking, he practically monopolized the mischief. From the lowest ce to the first, he had indulged in everything, leaving no grass unplucked.


    If evil had a color, it certainly wouldn��t be enough to describe Ashe��s shade.


    Ashe noticed Lise rewinding to view the empress scene and said, ��Stop looking, she��s definitely not your stepmom. I don��t even know her�� Huh?��


    Lise suddenly tensed up, quickly closing the Gospel Book. ��Dad, why were you surprised?��


    ��Nothing, it��s just that the empress��s pose was simr to yours,�� Ashe replied.


    At that moment, Lise was also sitting on hisp, one arm around his neck. The resemnce to the empress scene was indeed striking.


    Lise froze but then quickly returned to her usual self, hands on her hips as sheughed loudly, ��That��s right, I am the empress! So, Dad, you have to listen to me. Tomorrow, you need to buy ice cream!��


    Ashe ignored her, turning to Annan and Igor. ��Now that the ranking list is over, can you exin what��s going on with the Weaving Festival?��


    Annan closed the Gospel Book and carefully considered her words.


    ��Do you know ��Divine Illusion��? In ancient theater, when the plot required a major twist, and roles like angels needed to appear, illusion spellcasters would create scene effects to make the angel appear abruptly on stage.��


    ��Later, in theater and novel works, ��Divine Illusion�� came to refer to those contrived, forced, andpletely unprepared plot twists. For example, when writers didn��t know how to continue, they would either have an angel save everything or a meteorite destroy everything.��


    Ashe pondered, ��Are we the angels?��


    ��No,�� Annan said. ��You are the meteorite.��

 Chapter 431: The Gospel Is Framing Me

    Chapter 431: The Gospel Is Framing Me


    Senhaeser Building, top-floor office.


    Hearing the sound of the oak door being pushed open, Qenna, who was in a conversation with the Listening Minister, turned her head and saw her sister, with a gloomy expression, walking in wearing high-heeled boots.


    ��Captain Nona.�� The Listening Minister nodded slightly in greeting, and Nona nodded back, calmly standing behind Qenna.


    ��That��s it, for now, postpone the Listening n for over three years. Change the decision-making preference from ��future risk-oriented�� to ��current stability-oriented��. I need you to prepare a report on the number, realms, and Spellcasting Sect of the spellcasters within the tribe, prioritizing their training importance.��


    ��Understood.��


    After the Listening Minister left the room, Qenna stood up and gazed at the white mist city below. The eyes of the Elf patriarch seemed to be envisioning the future of Vamora, and her meditative lips appeared to be weighing the family��s safety.


    ��Nona,e here.��


    Nona walked over, not quite understanding, only to have Qenna smack her bottom hard. The usuallyposed and quiet vice-captain shivered all over, letting out a surprised ��Eek.��


    ��I just found out you like to spank, like a mother cat���� Qenna chuckled softly.Nona abruptly pushed Qenna into a chair, staring at her sister sternly and coldly. Unfortunately, the blush that wouldn��t fade from her porcin-like face reduced her intimidation to that of a little kitten puffing up its fur.


    ��What��s the deal with the ranking list?��


    ��We discussed this before, didn��t we? The gospel made an erroneous judgment,�� Qenna replied calmly. ��Annan and her people from the exotd are variables that the gospel can��t urately predict. Annan��s deliberate interference caused the gospel to vastly overestimate their potential and future����


    ��I��m asking why you and I are both serving Ashe Heath on the ranking list!��


    ��For the same reason as on the Family Ranking, Ashe��s peculiar tastes����


    ��It��s different,�� Nona retorted. ��On the Family Ranking, we were transformed into undead, and our minds were twisted, so that��s not surprising. But on the Happiness Ranking, you and I are fully conscious!��


    ��The Happiness Ranking also mentioned it. As the Happiest Patriarch, I was forced by Ashe,�� Qenna paused, then suddenly gritted her teeth and said, ��Damn Ashe! He must have threatened me with the Family, forcing me to submit to him. I wish I could lock him up in a dark room and torment him day and night�� But in the future, he is the Source of Cmity and an Undying Fiend. His power will surely surpass the Sanctuary. For the sake of protecting the Family, the Gospel thinks that I would endure humiliation and bend to his will. It��s understandable.��


    ��Is it?�� Nona said coldly. ��But I got the feeling that you didn��t seem too unwilling in the images.��


    ��Ashe is apanion of Rust Crow, and Rust Crow is a powerful mental spellcaster. To protect the Family, I would have to conceal my killing intent and even pretend to enjoy it. Otherwise, how could I deceive this cmity-breeding Demon Lord!�� Qenna sighed deeply. ��I��ve sacrificed so much for the Family��s well-being, but since I am the patriarch, I must shoulder this responsibility.��


    ��What about me?�� Nona demanded. ��Why am I in it too?��


    ��That proves Ashe is full of vile deeds. It��s not enough for him to use underhanded tactics to get me; he even wants a piece of you����


    ��But the problem is, why do I also look so willing in the images!?��


    Qenna quietly looked at her blushing sister and said, ��Then Nona, maybe you should reflect on why you would want to steal your niece��s man����


    Nona was so angry sheughed. ��Qenna, you��re still trying to me me? Ever since you returned to be the patriarch, I��ve always been your avatar spirit! What I��m saying is, when we were at the Belldate manor, how could I have developed feelings for Ashe? It must be your emotions spilling over into me!��


    Every Six Heraldry patriarch has several avatar spirits among their nsmen to ensure the Family��s power inheritance if the patriarch suddenly dies. During the white mist anomaly, Qenna was trapped in a Dream, and the avatar spirit of Qenna within Nona��s soul activated, allowing her sister to temporarily move using her body.


    This insurance mechanism is stringent, given that avatar spirits could potentially usurp the host��s will. Therefore, both parties must trust each otherpletely. But in the Six Heraldry Family, trust has never been an issue.


    ��Even so, the avatar spirit can still have side effects on the host, such as emotional leakage. To give an analogy, the rtionship between the main body and the avatar is like a champagne tower. Normally, there��s no impact, but if the emotions of the main body overflow, they drip down into the avatars below.��


    ��Can��t it just be that you��re moved yourself?�� Qenna argued stubbornly. ��Don��t me everything on me!��


    ��I��ve always been detached my whole life, so why would I care so much about Annan?�� Nona said. ��If it��s not your fault, whose is it?��


    ��Putting that aside,�� Qenna changed the subject, ��the important issue now is that the Gospel has a big problem.��


    Hearing her sister talk about business, Nona could only suppress her irritation and nod, ��Updating early is an unprecedented event in a thousand years. And after reviewing Ashe and his people��s profiles, it��s clear that they vastly differ from the ranking list descriptions. If I��m not mistaken����


    ��The Gospel can no longer make things up,�� Qenna motioned for her sister to sit across from her. ��We need to change our strategy for utilizing the Gospel. Nona, for the next few days, assist the Listening Department and try to use up our Gospel points as much as possible.��


    ��No problem�� wait, what?��


    ��The Gospel can no longer make things up.��


    Annan said, ��So, it uses people like you, these meteorites, to smash through everything.��


    ��Can no longer make things up?�� Ashe and Lise were both puzzled. ��What does that mean?��


    ��It can��t weave a genuine future,�� Igor exined. ��So it uses us, these fake futures, as recements.��


    ��Since we��re talking about drama, let��s use it as a metaphor,�� Annan said. ��If the Gospel is an author, then the Weaving Festival is their meticulously written work. Before writing, it usually spends fifty years collecting materials and thenpletes the work in one go within 100 days.��


    ��Its update speed is one chapter every ten days. Though it may asionally be dyed, it has consistently delivered quality updates for hundreds of years. But one day, it suddenly updates six days early��what could be the reason?��


    ��Maybe it has some chapters in reserve?�� Ashe guessed.


    ��An author who has procrastinated for hundreds of years suddenly having a backlog of chapters? Highly unlikely,�� Annan chuckled. ��Although I don��t know the exact reason, it��s definitely not a normal update. This ��Happiness Ranking�� is undoubtedly a rushed product.��


    ��If you were this author and had only written 40% of your manuscript, but the editor suddenly demanded that you hand it over immediately, how would you resolve it?��


    ��I would deal with the editor,�� Ashe replied. ��But the Gospel isn��t just anyone; does it even have an editor?��


    ��Dad, you��re silly! There are Angels and a Divine Sovereign above the Gospel!�� Lise quickly grasped the situation. ��So, to submit the manuscript, did the Gospel just scribble and haphazardly fill in the remaining 60%?��


    ��Something like that, but the Gospel didn��t just scribble aimlessly.��


    Annan spread her hands, her expressionplicated. ��The Gospel used you all.��


    ��You are people from an exotd. The Gospel isn��t aware of your pasts, so you hold infinite possibilities. This also serves as your leverage to deceive the Gospel. But precisely because of these ��infinite possibilities,�� you be the Gospel��s best�� how should I put it, filler side-story material?��


    ��Normally, for the Gospel to weave a ��true future,�� it needs to leverage all past intelligence to piece together the future bit by bit. This is why the Gospel dys updates until the veryst second��another second of spection makes its predictions more urate.��


    ��Therefore, even if the Gospel wanted to update early, it wouldn��t work. Itcks the time to predict the future of us Gospel people, meaning it can��t predict it at all. As a miracle that foretells the future, it can afford to be inurate but can never actively make mistakes.��


    ��But with you people from an exotd, it��s different��precisely because of your ��infinite possibilities,�� the Gospel can allow itself to make fuzzy predictions about you! Even if its predictions are off, it��s not a mistake, just less urate!��


    Hearing this, Ashe finally understood.


    ��So,�� Ashe said calmly, patting Lise on the head, ��the Gospel, as an author, needs to update early. However, it can��t write nonsense about you Gospel people because you are the main characters, and tampering with that would ruin your character arcs. The Gospel knows better than to let that happen.��


    ��However, we��re different. We are new characters who crash in mid-story. No matter what plotline we follow, it��s deemed reasonable. So, the Gospel just makes up our storylines to fill the updates!��


    ��Wait a minute,�� Harvey said through a mouthful of food, ��making stuff up isn��t the same as random writing. Our characters are quite different from those in the Happiness Ranking!��


    ��That��s because the Gospel doesn��t derive our future based on our real personalities,�� Igor said calmly, tracing the rim of his wine ss. ��Compared to the Gospel people, our future might be even harder to predict. It shoots arrows after drawing the target, first setting a temte for the Happiness Ranking and then fitting us into it. That��s why you get bizarre plotlines like me having a daughter, or Harvey creating a wife.��


    ��Actually, I think Leia is pretty nice���� Ashe muttered, but seeing Lise��s murderous re, he quickly straightened up. ��The Gospel is beingpletely irresponsible, wrecking my character! How am I supposed to show my face now?��


    Harvey took a long sip of stew and reminded, ��Even without the Happiness Ranking, going out now would still make you the Source of Cmity, Cmity Demon Lord, and a fugitive����


    ��The Gospel is a good chronicler but a poor fantasy writer. Everything in the Happiness Ranking can be seen as third-rate fiction written under the influence,�� Igor said. ��It��s all fake.��


    ��Everything is fake?�� Ashe sounded a bit disappointed.


    Lise, recalling the number one scene on the Happiness Ranking, nced at her hand mirror and murmured softly, ��Not everything is fake����


    ��Although it��s fabricated, the Gospel must have seen some signs to inspire its secondary creations,�� Annan said, staring intently at Ashe. ��For example, Igor and Anfel indeed almost became a couple, and Harvey does have the power to create Necromantic Brides. So����


    ��Ashe, why does the Gospel think you have rtionships with Qenna and Nona?��


    ��Yeah, why!�� Lise immediately lifted her head to join the attack.


    A speck of the Gospel��s dust on Ashe��s head felt like a mountain.


    Ashe dered firmly, ��The gospel is framing me.��


    Annan said, ��Why did you lick Qenna��s face? That��s definitely not something you normally do. I haven��t seen you lick Lise, so on what basis did the Gospel derive this plot?��


    Ashe gritted his teeth and said, ��The gospel is framing me!��


    Annan pressed on, ��And why were you in bed with both Qenna and Nona? Moreover, you even-let Nona do that to you����


    Ashepletely capitted, ��This is truly the gospel framing me!��


    Heaven and earth could attest, Ashe never had such thoughts about Nona. This was simply the Gospel reworking the synthetic image data that Yvaren had sold him!


    Just as Ashe was being thoroughly overwhelmed, Banjeet suddenly spoke up, ��Since everything in the Happiness Ranking has some basis, then����


    ��Why did Igor��s daughter Leia push Ashe to hurry up and have a child with Aunt Annan?��


    Everyone turned to look at the Purple Moth.


    Now the pressure shifted to Annan.


    After a moment of silence, Annan reluctantly nodded, ��The gospel is framing him.��

 Chapter 432: The Gospel in Chaos

    ��me Ashe!��


    In Belldate��s main residence, Yvaren stomped in anger after reading the ranking: ��If it weren��t for Ashe��s interference, we would have received two sets of ranking rewards this time!��


    Leia is nowhere to be found now, and the rewards would definitely go to her parents, Anfel and Igor; plus, Yvaren herself also made it onto the Happiness Ranking as the ��The Happiest Merchant.�� Hence, Belldate really had a big harvest, making it onto the list twice in a row.


    However, Ashe��s appearance rendered the rankings invalid, nullifying the rewards!


    To Yvaren, this was even more infuriating than being taken as Ashe��s concubine on the list �� two rewards lost! When she is not making decisions, Yvaren is actually quite meticulous; other family patriarchs would definitely value the ranking information more than the rewards, but Yvaren couldn��t stop thinking about the rewards.


    After all, to her, everything came from Belldate, and she didn��t own a single thing. The reason she left home in her youth, longing for real love, was this. Now, the Gospel acknowledged her personal value, and she was so close to getting a reward that was ��exclusively hers,�� only to lose it because of Ashe��it was infuriating!


    ��No, I need to manipte Igor to lure Ashe over too!�� Yvaren sulked at the table, ��Then you take care of Igor, and I��ll handle Ashe. We must squeeze the rewards back!��


    Anfel nced curiously at Yvaren��her sister��s focus on Ashe seemed a bit intense, and Ashe was not a debtor. Technically, he shouldn��t factor into her sister��s decision-making process. Speaking of which, although her sister wanted to pursue ordinary love, deep down, she liked the bossy CEO drama. However, the most bossy CEO in the Gospel was herself��


    ��Yvaren, the reason our ranking rewards were nullified actually has nothing to do with Ashe.����Huh?�� Yvaren tilted her head, ��How is it unrted to him? If he hadn��t enchanted me, how could I have lost the title of The Happiest Merchant?��


    Anfel said, ��Think about it, Ashe is just an influencing factor, or rather, he��s just an excuse. Just like I can only give you suggestions, but the one making the actual decisions is you, Yvaren.��


    Yvaren blinked, ��You mean����


    ��Ashe Heath is just the Gospel��s scapegoat.��


    ��But why does the Gospel keep causing my character to break into other people��s stories as the Source of Cmity, even if it��s just fan fiction?��


    Ashe puzzledly asked, ��And it��s been ten times in a row��in its storyline, I ended up as an anti-Gospel anarchist. Every ranked individual on the Happiness Ranking had their lives changed by me, leading to the rankings bing invalid�� If I had that much free time, why wouldn��t I just go back to sleep with my wife?��


    ��Ashe, aren��t you an anarchist?�� Harvey asked curiously, cutting a small piece ofmb and putting it in his mouth. ��I��ve never seen you do any good orderly deed.��


    Ashe wanted to vehemently refute the necromancer with examples, but as he recalled his good deeds: prison break, smuggling, deceiving the Gospel, fleeing from a bounty�� Not to mention, he had just instigated a legion war in the Virtual Realm.


    Source of Cmity��when you think about it, the title wasn��t entirely wrong!


    ��I adopted Lise! Isn��t that an orderly good deed?�� Ashe lifted Lise up, and Lise nodded repeatedly.


    Harvey was momentarily confused��hadn��t Lise initiallytched onto Ashe because she found him easy to bully, using him as a scapegoat? Was his memory wrong, or had Ashe and Lise started rewriting history?


    ��Ashe, you��re mistaken,�� Igor said after sipping some hot milk. ��The Gospel needs you to be the Source of Cmity, so it writes stories about the people around you.��


    ��What do you mean?�� Ashe asked, looking baffled as he stroked Lise��s little white furry head to soothe his nerves. ��Did I insult the Gospel? Why is it retaliating against me in this way?��


    ��Speaking of which, I haven��t exined why you guys are like meteorites.��


    Annan flicked her earring and said, ��The significance of a meteorite is its ability to destroy all characters, thus ending the story immediately��for the Gospel, rushing updates, pletion�� is exactly what it needs.��


    ��In fact, if you look at the ranking list, the Gospel does have a lot of ��original content����besides Leia and Harvey��s wife, Daphne, Cleos, Yvaren, and Qenna are all characters that have already been born within the Gospel. Therefore, it can��t just make up their futures.��


    ��But,�� Annan paused, ��the Gospel has only projected a tiny bit of their futures. When there��s not enough time to continue the projections, what does it do? At this point, it needs a meteorite to destroy them, ending their storylines directly.��


    ��Ashe, Igor, Harvey��you are that meteorite.��


    ��As long as you all intervene in their lives and reckless destroy their fates, the Gospel doesn��t need to weave their futures anymore, and the ranking bes invalid. As for why you would do this in the future����


    ��Because we possess ��infinite possibilities,���� Ashe said bitterly. ��The Gospel is using us as its cleanup crew!��


    If the Gospel were a real writer, Ashe would want to charge in and yell at it: ��Stopping updates would be better than producing this kind of garbage! Trying to rush through updates with such lousy plots��do you even care about your readers? Give me a refund!��


    The current situation is that the Gospel, in its rush to update, inserted a scene midway through the storyline where ��a sudden meteorite crashes down and wipes out all the characters,�� abruptly ending the story, and then submitted it for publication.


    As for why the meteorite crashes down, it��s actually a longid n: this meteorite is from an exotd. Although it currently appears to be an ordinary migrant worker meteorite, there��s a chance it could grow into a demon king meteorite, even if that chance is only 1%.


    The Gospel might find this method convenient, but has it considered how the meteorite feels!?


    ��I can understand the meteorite part,�� Harvey said while eating his mashed potatoes, ��but why does the Gospel have to invalidate the rankings?��


    ��Because the rankings are actually invalid,�� Igor exined. ��Not only is Ashe��s intervention storyline made up, but even the ranked individuals themselves are fabricated��they are only ranked because they are connected to Ashe. The Gospel filled in their futures on the list, making Ashe��s interference appear more reasonable.��


    ��So the Gospel has to disqualify their rankings. If it were a true Happiness Ranking, they wouldn��t even make the list!��


    Annan shook her head. ��Not necessarily. I think only the 10th spot might be valid, but that��s about it. After all, you don��t know Daphne or her brother�� But to align with Ashe��s ��destructive nature,�� even The Happiest Wedding had to be sacrificed.��


    ��As for the ranks after that, they were probably set up to make Ashe��s involvement seem more reasonable. Most of the people in those ranks are familiar to Ashe. It��s too much of a coincidence otherwise.��


    Ashe felt his blood vessels harden with frustration!


    The Gospel��s tricks run deep. I need a Blood Moon!


    With Ashe as the perfect scapegoat, the Gospel managed to update a trashy chapter but can put all the me on Ashe. Moreover, it canter invalidate these plots as if nothing ever happened!


    This doesn��t even affect the uracy of the Weaving Festival!


    So, the Gospel managed to churn out an update, the readers had to endure a filler chapter, and the only world left damaged was the one belonging to the innocent Ashe.


    The living room fell silent as everyone contemted the changes brought by the Gospel until Banjeet finally spoke: ��Let��s eat�� the soup is getting cold.��


    Everyone then remembered they were in the middle of a meal, which had been abruptly interrupted by the Happiness Ranking.


    Ashe turned his head and saw that Harvey had already eaten nearly half of the food��he had spent the whole day working like a beast at the construction site without using his spellcaster abilities and was famished.


    ��Uncle Harvey, could you please stop eating? There��s hardly anything left for me!��


    ��Butler Banjeet, could you get me a bowl of soup, please?��


    ��Themb is tender and delicious. Ashe, your Substitute��s cooking skills are impressive.��


    ��Mmhmm!�� Lise, in her hurry topete with Harvey for food, ended up choking. Ashe couldn��t help butugh, patting her back and offering her some soup.


    After everyone had eaten and felt satisfied, Ashe suddenly realized that while the Happiness Ranking might be oundish, it didn��t really affect him much. As Harvey mentioned, even if his reputation wasn��t already infamously bad, any further tarnish was insignificant. He didn��t need the extra punishment.


    ��As long as I��m useless enough, no one can exploit me!��


    What Happiness Ranking? Being full is more important to him.


    Until Igor suddenly broke the warmth of the moment: ��Young Lady, you seem quite happy.��


    Everyone turned to look at Annan and noticed that the corner of her mouth, smudged with a bit of ck pepper sauce, was indeed slightly upturned. Annan paused and then smiled, ��Well, I worked all day, and the dinner is so delicious. I couldn��t help but feel a bit happy.��


    ��Is that so?�� The Con Artist lowered his eyelids. ��I thought you were happy because the ranking list is invalid.��


    Huh?


    Ashe, Harvey, Lise, and the others looked confused. Why would Annan be happy about the ranking list being invalid?


    However, Annan sighed and spread her hands, saying, ��Actually, I��m not certain yet, and it��s not like I was deliberately hiding it. Igor, you��re just too suspicious.��


    ��If you want me to trust youpletely, you��d have to be as foolish as Ashe,�� Igor replied coolly.


    ��Alright, can we stop picking on me for a moment?�� Ashe said. ��What are you all talking about?��


    ��If the Gospel is rushing to conclude the Weaving Festival, it means this kind of ��ranking list invalidation�� could happen again. It��s possible that even the next six ranking lists might all be invalid,�� Igor exined. ��This way, only the first three ranking lists would genuinely count.��


    ��Then the winner of the Divine Sovereign��s Wish would be chosen only from the top three ranking lists.��


    Ashe and Lise were momentarily stunned and then stared intently at Annan!


    Their minds raced back to recall the top achievements of the Funeral Firm in the first three rankings:


    1st ce in the Art Ranking, Annan Dn.


    1st ce in the Family Ranking, Archibald Harvey.


    1st ce in the Ranking of Schemes, Igor Bukin, and�� 10th ce, Annan Dn!


    In the Funeral Firm, Annan alone held two rankings!

 Chapter 433: The Final Ranking List

    Chapter 433: The Final Ranking List


    In Annan��s n,peting for a ranking list position was merely a means to an end; their ultimate goal had always been the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.


    The great Omniscient Weaver would personally fulfill the wishes of the wisher.


    Even outsiders like Ashe, Harvey, and Igor, who showed little respect for the Omniscient Weaver, did not dare to underestimate the significance of this wish.


    Although the Divine Sovereign likely had limitations, to mere mortals like them, these rulers of the Kingdoms seemed almost Universal in their capabilities. Just like ants, who, with their limited imagination, would only wish for arger and stronger body or tastier food, Ashe and the others couldn��t possibly wish for anything beyond the Divine Sovereign��s capabilities.


    Sure, they knew the Divine Sovereigns were just higher forms of ascended spellcasters. Since there were multiple Divine Sovereigns, each one probably had different focal areas and couldn��t be truly omnipotent, simr to how spellcasters specialize in specific Spellcasting Sects.


    However, even a spellcaster proficient in just one sect could reflect many spells through that single discipline. For example, Ashe��s Swordsmanship could kill negative statuses (sh Me), teleport (Rush), and defend (sword body barrier). He wouldn��t be surprised if someday his Swordsmanship could even cut chemical bonds to harness nuclear energy.


    Moreover, over the long years, even if the Divine Sovereigns only honed their skills gradually, they would still master a vast majority of the Spellcasting Sects. The miracles and Divine Interventions theymanded were beyond mortal imagination. Rust Crow spent so many years and so much effort to resurrect a single person, yet in the Time Continent, resurrection services were openly avable, provided at a clear price to the heroic soulmanders by the Divine Sovereigns.


    The most outrageous request mortals could make would probably be something like ��Make me a Divine Sovereign as well.�� However, the Omniscient Weaver isn��t an artificial intelligence like Gospel that��s constrained byputational logic. The Weaver might turn you into a ��Divine Sovereign L Fatty�� (a new species created by the Weaver), thus achieving your wish while also diversifying the Gospel Kingdom��s menu.


    But slightly lesser wishes, such as bing an Angel, resurrecting someone, ruling Gospel, or having unlimited Gospel points, should be fairly manageable. Hence, obtaining the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, even if it couldn��t satisfy all desires, would at least solve all problems.Annan��s original n to obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish was as follows: people from exotds would strive to secure the ranking list positions on the Future Ranking. The Echoer with the highest ranking and greatest weight should be the first to receive the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.


    This was why Annan was adamant about making them sign ve Pacts��without absolute control over them, if they obtained the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, she wouldn��t be able to take it back from them!


    Now, the Echoer with the highest ranking and greatest weight turned out to be Annan herself!


    No middleman cutting into the deal!


    Ashe exhaled heavily and nced at Lise, ��Well, this works too.��


    Lise��s eyes flickered, but she lowered her head to eat the roastedmb chops without saying anything. Ashe knew it wasn��t that simple��he hadn��t forgotten that Lise had tried to conspire with him to seize the Divine Sovereign��s Wish on the first night.


    By now, Ashe didn��t think Lise was just some lost little girl picked up by the Four Pirs Cult. Though he didn��t believe she could really take the Divine Sovereign��s Wish from them, avoiding trouble was always better.


    Moreover, his rtionship with Annan had rapidly improved recently, making Ashe fully aware that Annan would never let go of this opportunity. As representatives of greed and madness, Igor and Harvey had long been itching to make a move.


    Even Ashe himself found it hard to resist the temptation. Wandering in a foreign ce, tossed by the turbulent waves of fate, having nothing left, didn��t he want to dream of happiness for once?


    Never test human nature, and especially not your own, lest you be the Abyss, lest you be the evil dragon.


    For now, they could still work together harmoniously, enjoying dinner merrily. But as the conclusion drew near, the more brilliant the current cooperation, the more brutal the inevitable betrayal would be.


    This sacrilege that began with deception would surely end with deception.


    Therefore, upon hearing that Annan had secured the spot for the wish, Ashe felt some disappointment, but more was relief.


    If the spot were in Ashe and the others�� hands, they might still have a chance to resist. But with the spot in Annan��s hands, they had no hope of taking it away. They remained 100% Annan��s obedient ves.


    Harvey ate the creamy sauce on his te by sopping it up with bread, seemingly unconcerned that Annan had secured victory ahead of schedule. Igor nced between Ashe and Lise, lowering his eyelids in deep thought.


    ��If I do obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, I will honor our initial promises and help fulfill your wishes,�� Annan said seriously. ��Harvey, I will help you acquire the legacy of the Necromancy Angel and provide you with ample resources.��


    ��Igor, if you want money, I��ll give it to you. If you want freedom, you��ll have that too. When our Pact ends, you can choose your own path.��


    ��Ashe, Lise,�� Annan looked at them, ��trust me, I will ensure you both find happiness.��


    Ashe blinked-howe the lines directed at him and Lise seemed so different? Is Annan simplifying things for Lise?


    ��I don��t know if these thirty-plus days have been enough for you to see through me, but I can only offer this earnest promise: I will not disappoint you,�� Purple Moth paused, ��as long as I seed in obtaining the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.��


    Igor caught the underlying meaning in the Young Lady��s words, ��Do you havepetitors?��


    ��Assuming all Future Ranking lists are nullified, I am indeed the highest-ranked Echoer,�� Annan said. ��But the problem is, the final ranking list will definitely not be null and void.��


    ��Not only will it remain valid, but the top rank on this list was determined even before the Weaving Festival began.��


    After finishing her meal, Lise came over to Ashe and acted yfully. As Ashe wiped her mouth with a handkerchief, he asked skeptically, ��But that��s just one top spot, and you have one plus ten, don��t you?��


    ��What if I told you that in the past ten Weaving Festivals, the Divine Sovereign��s Wish has always been granted to this top spot?�� Annan said.


    The ounders were slightly taken aback, and Igor quickly realized, ��This ranking list carries the highest influence weight?��


    Annan nodded. ��In the past ten Weaving Festivals, there have been the Legend Ranking, the Battle Power Ranking, and even the Great Men��s Ranking. But no matter who held the top position on these lists, they never obtained the Divine Sovereign��s Wish. Meanwhile, throughout all these festivals, the first nine ranking lists have always changed, but the final ranking list has never altered. The Divine Sovereign��s Wish is only granted to the first ce on this final list.��


    Ashe asked, ��So what ranking list is it? The Omniscient Weaver��s Illegitimate Children Ranking? Do we stand a chance to get on it? ��Hey, what are you doing?��


    Lise gently bit Ashe��s finger, and when he looked over, she turned her head away. Ashe thought she was just being yful and didn��t give it much thought.


    ��It��s not the Illegitimate Children Ranking, and no, we cannot get on it,�� Annan said. ��It��s called the Gospel Ranking, and the criteria for getting on it are-��


    ��Only the purest, most innocent, kindest, and most beautiful young girls can be included on this list.��


    Everyone was stunned. Igor asked incredulously, ��So men can��t get on it?��


    ��There hasn��t been such a precedent,�� Annan replied. ��So, do you understand why you can��t make it on the list?��


    ��Because we��re not women?��


    ��No, if it were only about gender, it wouldn��t be an insurmountable obstacle,�� Annan said, spreading her hands. ��The main issue is that the Gospel has never seen an innocent Con Artist, a pure-hearted necromancer, or a kind Cmity Demon Lord.��

 Chapter 434: Assassinate the Princess

    Chapter 434: Assassinate the Princess


    The highest-ranked ��Gospel Ranking�� astonishingly requires pure and innocent maidens to make the list!


    Although Ashe knew that everyone loves beautiful girls, even the Divine Sovereign being this shallow was simply outrageous!


    ��Young Lady, let me look at the ranked individuals of past ��Gospel Rankings.�� I need to thoroughly study the Omniscient Weaver��s preferences!��


    ��Can��t you use your own points to look?�� Annan touched her amethyst earring and said, ��But even if you look back, you wouldn��t find much����because the top Echoers of past Gospel Rankings have always been veiled maidens, their appearances concealed.��


    ��Huh? The Omniscient Weaver monopolizes?�� Ashe looked down at Lise and took out a Twisting Mask from his pocket, cing it on her face: ��Like this?��


    ��Where did this big demon king and little witche from,�� Annan said irritably. ��Don��t even think about it. I��ve never considered using Lise to deceive the Gospel Ranking. Not to mention, Lise doesn��t meet the requirements at all. Plus, as I just mentioned, the top spot of this ranking list is already determined even before the Weaving Festival begins.��


    Although Ashe thought Lise was the cutest little girl, she indeed didn��t embody ��innocence�� and was a bit far from being ��kind.�� If she grows up, she might be someone skilled in ying with emotions, someone people would both love and hate����Ashe had always thought Lise had recognized the wrong parents; she should have taken Aunt Bukin as her mother instead, that would be a perfect match.


    Igor asked, ��Then who is the pre-appointed top of the Gospel Ranking?��


    ��The next Empress of Yisuo.��Annan scanned the crowd and slowly said, ��Every top-ranked individual of the Gospel Ranking bes the Empress of Yisuo for the next fifty years. The Empress currently residing in the Imperial Capital Nabistin was the top of the previous Gospel Ranking.��


    ��Since the founding of the Yisuo Dynasty, this tradition has never seen an exception and has never changed.��


    Igor frowned, ��Every time?��


    ��Every time.��


    ��No anomalies? Is there any chance someone else made the ranking but the Yisuo Royal Family incorporated them before the ranking list was published������


    Annan shook her head: ��Believe me, when I first thought about seizing the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, my initial option was to be first on the ��Gospel Ranking.�� And it wasn��t just me; who doesn��t want the Divine Sovereign��s Wish? Just think about it��Belldate, Mercury, Kaesrei, which family hasn��t contemted seizing the Divine Sovereign��s Wish?��


    ��However, the fact is that the Yisuo Royal Family has held tightly onto the first ce of the ��Gospel Ranking�� for hundreds of years, never letting it slip.�� She shrugged. ��That��s precisely why I dared to spheme the gospel with you guys��because the Yisuo Royal Family has been spheming the gospel for hundreds of years!��


    ��How could it be that every generation of the royal family has the purest maiden in all of gospel? The only exnation is that the Yisuo Royal Family has mastered the technique to deceive the gospel and has stolen the grand prize of the Weaving Festival!��


    ��Even if gospel invalidates all other ranking lists, it would never invalidate the ��Gospel Ranking����because it doesn��t need to be woven at all; the Yisuo Royal Family already has the answer prepared!��


    Ashe noticed Lise restlessly squirming in his arms. He patted her white-haired head and asked, ��But why does the Weaving Festival have such a peculiar ranking list as the ��Gospel Ranking��? How does having the purest maiden boost productivity or enrich everyone��s spiritual needs?��


    If it was just once or twice, that would be one thing, but having this ranking list at every Weaving Festival seems too odd, especiallypared to other ranking lists��like the ��Art Ranking,�� which satisfies spiritual and cultural needs; the ��Family Ranking,�� which guides families to align with new influential figures; the ��Ranking of Schemes,�� predicting major events for the next fifty years��


    The purest maiden, who neither has aplishments (good or evil), nor guides social life, might be appreciated asionally, but how could it be the one consistent ranking list at the Weaving Festival?


    Could it really be that the Omniscient Weaver is selecting a consort?


    ��Gospel has never provided a response.�� Annan said, ��Currently, there are three mainstream theories��the Omniscient Weaver desires everyone to be innocent, pure, and kind, so this ranking list is created to attract us to emte; the ��Gospel Ranking�� is the foundation for the other nine ranking lists, and altering it would cause the copse of the Weaving Festival, so the Omniscient Weaver keeps it unchanged; the Omniscient Weaver is female and likes women.��


    The first reason is easy to understand. People tend to follow what those in power favor, but societal trends clearly cannot be guided by a ranking list alone, especially when it only has ten spots.


    If the list could expand to a billion spots, then Ashe might see a kingdom filled with beautiful girls.


    The second reason is also quite normal. It��s like spaghetti code��you might not know why it works, but as long as it works, you don��t touch it.


    ��But why suspect that the Omniscient Weaver is a woman?�� Ashe found it confusing. ��Shouldn��t the guess be a man?��


    Annan asked, ��If you designed a ranking list to select women, would you ce ��kindness and innocence�� as the highest criteria?��


    ��Um���� Ashe pondered, ��It��s hard to say. For me, many qualities in women are highly valued.��


    Annan pressed, ��What��s the most important?��


    ��It��s kind of embarrassing to say, but it would probably be physique.��


    ��If it��s embarrassing, at least don��t answer so quickly!�� Annan nced at herself, huffed, and said, ��Shallow!��


    ��If it were me, I would value her strength,�� Harvey interjected.


    ��Mm, I get it,�� Ashe nodded, ��After all, she��d also be yourbat tool, so strength is indeed crucial.��


    ��I wasn��t talking about corpses.�� Harvey gave him a look. ��I think the best woman is one who can efficiently and cleanly eliminate my targets and bring their bodies back to me.��


    ��Sorry, we��re discussing character sexual traits here, not functionality.�� Ashe looked towards Igor. ��What about you?��


    Igor coldly nced at him. ��I value the same factors as the ��Gospel Ranking.����


    ��Because it��s easier to deceive innocent and pure women?��


    ��Because such women don��t exist,�� Igor stated. ��Children learn to manipte life from a young age, teenagers�� desires surge and be uncontroble, and young adults experience the mingling of good and evil in society�� Unless they��ve been isted from the world since birth, how could there possibly be innocent and pure maidens? I��d love to see what kind of impossible creatures the Future Ranking will conjure up.��


    ��ording to the ��Con Artist��s Guide,�� the more a con artist verbally despises someone, the more they actually like them deep down.�� Ashe chuckled, ��I never thought you liked that pure and innocent type, Igor�� Ah, I get it now!��


    Igor raised an eyebrow, ��You idiot, what do you understand now?��


    ��Anfel really matches that description!�� Ashe eximed in realization. ��No wonder Gospel predicts that you and Anfel will get married in the future! It all makes sense; she totally fits your preference!��


    ��Dad, what��s the ��Con Artist��s Guide��?�� Lise asked. ��Can I be a con artist by learning it?��


    ��No, but learning it will teach you how to deal with con artists.�� Ashe turned to the young butler, ��What about you, Banjeet? What do you value the most?��


    Banjeet was slightly taken aback, then smiled, ��Isn��t this conversation getting off track?��


    ��Indeed,�� Annan said. ��Regardless of whatever ultimate purpose the Omniscient Weaver had in setting up the ��Gospel Ranking,�� what we need to know is that it has be the biggest hurdle for us.��


    ��My initial n was to secure high rankings in several of the other lists, allowing one of you to umte enough weight topletely overshadow the first ce on the ��Gospel Ranking�� and im the Divine Sovereign��s Wish with the top priority.��


    ��Therefore, I��m not particrly happy, even though I am currently the highest-ranking contender.�� Annan spread her hands, ��With just two rankings, I can��t rece the status of the ��First Gospel.����


    ��Right now, I honestly hope that the other rankings haven��t been invalidated, but the chances are slim. Since the Omniscient Weaver intends to speed up the Weaving Festival, it��s unlikely to elerate only one ranking.��


    Ashe hesitated for a moment and then asked, ��Have you considered that even if the Weaving Festival hasn��t been sped up����


    ��Even if we capture first ce in all nine rankings, there��s still a high chance that the Divine Sovereign��s Wish will be predetermined for the First Gospel? Of course, I��ve considered that possibility, and I think it��s quite probable,�� Annan said calmly. ��But so what?��


    But so what?


    If she stopped taking action whenever hope seemed slim, Annan would never have led them in the sphemy Gospel n in the first ce. This has always been a scheme against the divine sovereign, and from the beginning, she had prepared herself for the possibility of a total loss.


    Ashe couldn��t detect even a hint of regret in Annan��s eyes. She was like a moth drawn to darkness, destined to rush into the me. The only thing Ashe still couldn��t figure out was what exactly she yearned to set aze.


    ��Since every Yisuo Emperor has received the Divine Sovereign��s Wish,�� Igor inquired, ��what wishes did they make?��


    ��I don��t know,�� Annan shook her head. ��That��s the second of the three great mysteries of Gospel: why each Empress can make it to the ranking list and what wishes they��ve made.��


    Ashe asked, ��What��s the third mystery?��


    Annan nced at him, ��The identity of each Empress��s lover�� But we��re fortunate because one of the answers is sitting right in front of us.��


    Ashe felt deeply wronged-if the other rankings on the Happiness Ranking were yful spections about Ashe, then the wedding at the 10th position and the Empress at the first were outright fabrications!


    He had never even met the Empress, so how could Gospel determine that he would end up with her in the future?


    What��s more infuriating is that the Happiness Ranking didn��t even reveal the Empress��s face. He couldn��t even satisfy his curiosity about what new ��wife�� Gospel had paired him with!


    ��Lise,�� Ashe, bored, struck up a conversation with Lise, ��do you think the Empress will be beautiful?��


    Lise blinked, ��I think��maybe she��ll look a lot like grown-up Lise?��


    At that moment, Harvey belched and leisurely said, ��So, Annan, does that mean you no longer have a chance to seize the Divine Sovereign��s Wish?��


    ��It��s we,�� Annan emphasized, correcting the pronoun, and then continued, ��Theoretically, we have no chance. But while invalidating the other ranking lists, Gospel has also handed me the de to solve all problems.��


    Igor was taken aback for a moment, then quickly stood up, fixing his gaze on Annan. ��Such unverifiable conjecture can��t be the main basis for decision-making!��


    ��But this is our only chance left,�� Annan said, locking eyes with him. ��We��vee this far, and even if it��s just a faint me, I have to let it burn.��


    Ashe looked at them, suddenly quarreling, a little perplexed.


    Optimist, pessimist, yet me?


    Ashe: ��Can you guys switch to normalnguage before you start arguing? Your meowing back and forth is really confusing us!��


    The Con Artist red at the Purple Moth for a long moment before slowly sitting back down. His face was as calm as ake, but internally, he was roiling with turmoil. Even though he had acquired knowledge from the Dominance Sect, and even though he had experienced the mental seas of thousands of people in Belldate, he still couldn��t reverse Annan��s ve Pact using the Mental Sect��s abilities!


    Gospel��s eleration of the Weaving Festival not only disrupted Annan��s ns but also threw Igor��s arrangements into chaos!


    His original intention was to forcefully break the Pact using the power of the Mental Sect before the final ranking list was released. Yvaren��s debt Pact with him was both his homework and his final exam��if he could nullify Yvaren��s debt, Igor would be confident in breaking free from Annan��s control!


    But everything came too quickly.


    Their quiet days were too short-lived.


    The Purple Moth looked at the Cult Leader, ��Ashe, Gospel may have invalidated the ranking lists through you, but it has also granted you an unprecedented special authority.��


    ��You are recognized by Gospel as the ��Disrupter of Fate.�� Any impact you have will be considered a ��small reasonable deviation within the fate range.�� Applied to the ranking lists, this means that no matter who you influence, their spot can still be on the list, but their ranking will be invalid.��


    ��This isn��t Gospel��s original intent; it��s a new rule set up temporarily to elerate the weaving. But since it��s a new rule, it must adhere to it; otherwise, it would cause contradictions between past and future rankings.��


    Ashe finally understood: since Gospel used Ashe to nullify the Happiness Ranking, it must recognize Ashe as a tool capable of wiping out futures.


    The ��Disrupter of Fate�� that Annan was talking about means that��without realizing it��Ashe has acquired a region-specific license to kill (invalidate) any Gospel follower��s future!


    Ashe caught a fleeting insight. ��Do you mean you want me to����


    Annan exined, ��If you kill the Echoer before they make it onto the ranking list, Gospel won��t bother to revise the list. Because ��you can destroy the future�� is a newly announced rule, it will simply operate under that logic and render the Echoer��s ranking invalid.��


    ��Ashe, you are the de Gospel has given us.��


    ��If you can kill the person who is ted to be ranked first on the Gospel Ranking ahead of time, the Weaving Festival will invalidate her ranking, and I will rightfully ascend to the highest position.��


    After a brief silence, Harvey suddenly chuckled. ��So, we��re finally getting into the business of killing? Who��s the target?��


    Banjeet looked worried, Igor furrowed his brows, and Lise buried her head deeply into Ashe��s chest.


    ��The future Yisuo Empress,�� Annan said, ��a princess residing in the Imperial Capital, Nabistin.��


    ��It has to be Ashe who kills her toplete the final sphemy against Gospel.��


    ��So, here are two pieces of news: the good news is that you only have onest job left. The bad news is that this task may very well be yourst,�� Annan said, pulling out a handkerchief to wipe her mouth. ��Destination: the Imperial Capital, Nabistin. Task content-��


    ��Assassinate the Princess.��

 Chapter 435: The Witchs Anomaly

    Virtual Realm, Time Continent.


    ��Witch!��


    Along with Ashe��s voice came the warm yellow ��sword body barrier.�� Only then did the stunned Deya snap back to reality, managing to escape the damage zone just in time before the Raging shing Dragon��s tail could break through the sword body barrier.


    As if sensing that Deya was their greatest vulnerability, the smaller de Fish Dragons swarmed towards her in an attempt to encircle and y her. However, Ashe had already used the ��Heart Pen�� to draw awork of ink marks in the surrounding area. As soon as the de Fish Dragons entered, they got stuck in those seemingly ink-like ��aerial strokes,�� their bodies quickly being shredded into pieces by the ink. The horrific sight deterred the other de Fish Dragons from entering the dense region of ink marks.


    The ��Heart Pen�� Miracle that Sonya had gifted Ashe was indeed very useful. Normally, thebination of ��Heart Sword�� with ��Sword Mark�� to create a trap zone at a distance had a significant issue-the spellcaster had to continuously expend spellforce to maintain the Sword Marks. If Ashe ceased supplying spellforce, those Sword Marks would instantly dissipate.


    This not only consumed a lot of spellforce but also required Ashe to constantly divert attention to the Sword Mark area while performing other attacks.


    In the early stages of use, it was quite entertaining, but the hassle made it grow tiresome quickly. If one were to say spirits were the spellcaster��s harem, then the Sword Mark spirit was like a capricious and demanding courtesan, and Ashe hardly felt like pampering her.


    However, the ��Heart Pen�� Miracle ingeniously altered the damage mechanism of the ��Sword Mark�� spirit: Normally, Sword Marks are fixed in mid-air to continuously harm moving targets. The ��Heart Pen,�� on the other hand, bypasses continuous damage and uses the Sword Marks as consumable ink marks. These can be carried away by moving targets, but within seconds, the ink marks deplete themselves, causing cutting damage to the target.


    Because they are consumable ink marks, the spellforce consumption of the ��Heart Pen�� is significantly lower, allowing Ashe to easily draw a multitude of ink mark traps. Although the overall damage wasn��t decreased, it made his job much less taxing. Moreover, Ashe could also draw ��ineffectual ink marks�� with minimal spellforce consumption to confuse and intimidate knowledge creatures!As a high-quality Miracle that Sonya bought for 15 gold coins, it even included instructions on how to disable friendly fire. After all, in Sonya��s world, teambat is the norm for spellcasters. Ashe only needed to apply an ink mark to his teammates beforehand, allowing them to freely move through the ink mark area without disrupting its arrangement!


    Their newly developed tactic involved Ashe setting up the ink mark area first. Then the sword Princess and the Witch would lure the knowledge creatures over. Once in the ink mark zone, they could safely hunt the knowledge creatures. After one or two charges, the knowledge creatures wouldn��t dare to step into the ink mark area again.


    Thanks to this new trick from the ��Heart Pen�� Miracle, the Sword Mark spirit��s status in the spirit harem was instantly elevated from a demanding courtesan to a favored concubine, rivaling the Heart Sword and Substitute in affection.


    When the Raging shing Dragon was finally defeated by the ��Blood Moon Shattered Lake�� severing its head, Sonya sheathed her de amid the blood rain, her killing aura all but dissipating. Her sharp eyes curved into crescents as she turned to see Ashe walking past her without a word, heading into the gemstone mine pit to loot resources.


    Sonya nced at his back, muttering something under her breath before pulling Deya to the side. ��Witch, zoning out during a battle is dangerous.��


    ��Sorry,�� Deya immediately replied. ��It won��t happen again.��


    ��I��m not ming you. It��s normal to make mistakes. Look at the Observer; he��s always making mistakes from the back. You don��t need to take it to heart.��


    ��What mistake did the Observer make?��


    ��Breathing,�� Sonya snorted, her face showing clear contempt for their captain. ��Have you ever seen a time when the Observer was charming and gentle? Let me rify, I haven��t either.��


    ��And don��t you think the Observer has been getting more annoyingtely? I��m telling you, he��s always been this annoying. Do you know he did something extremely inappropriate to me in the Sea of Knowledge? Just thinking about it makes me so angry I shake����


    There��s nothing like talking behind someone��s back to strengthen bonds, especially when that person is everyone��s boss. Deya listened with great interest as Sonya ranted about the Observer, her antenna-like cowlick bobbing and bending in agreement.


    Ashe finished looting the resources and brought a pile of gemstone materials for their spirits to consume. He signaled them not to get into the sports car just yet and proceeded to upgrade the Alchemy Throne once more. With the radiance of rose-gold light, the golden droplets at the top of the seat increased to 11, and the surrounding Reverse Golden Rain poured into the seat like a flood!


    ��Alchemy Throne �C Level 11: Increases the absorption rate of golden spellforce by 130%.


    Level 6 Special Effect: For every 60 minutes spent in the Virtual Realm, umte an additionalyer of [Flowing Gold Age]; eachyer increases the golden spellforce absorption rate by 10%.


    Level 11 Special Effect: As the speed of the sports car increases, further enhance the golden spellforce absorption rate, up to a maximum of 100% (peak at 400 km/h). Eachyer of [Flowing Gold Age] reduces the maximum required speed for this effect by 50%.


    Requirements for next level: 1175 Gem Essence, Crystal Essence, Mercury Essence, Wood Essence, Ore Essence, Golden Essence.��


    After throwing all the resources they had gathered over these days into the upgrade, they finally raised the Alchemy Throne to Level 11, unlocking the second special effect. The first special effect is straightforward: the longer they stay in the Virtual Realm, the faster the absorption rate. The second effect, while providing an additional 100% absorption rate, requires driving at top speed.


    But under normal conditions, that��s nearly impossible given the road conditions on the Time Continent, which areparable to a primitive forest. Even without hitting some mountain or stone wall, a sudden small bump could send the sports car airborne, likely crashing into some tree and causing a spinning cyclone.


    However, with the reduction in requirements from [Flowing Gold Age], after 2 hours, Ashe would only need to drive at 100 km/h to get the additional 100% absorption rate, a speed that��s barely manageable on the Time Continent. After 4 hours, even driving at just 25 km/h would suffice. Ashe and the others could even move at a leisurely pace inside the car and still achieve a 270% spellforce absorption rate boost (130% + 40% + 100%).


    Ashe exined the upgraded status of the Alchemy Throne to them and said, ��Tonight, we won��t be looting any resource points. Let��s just drive around and explore some special locations.��


    Today, they had already spent over an hour in the Virtual Realm. In a bit, they would gain 2yers of [Flowing Gold Age]. Even if they didn��t have any other gains tonight, just driving around in the Time Continent would yield spellforce twice that of an average spellcaster. Ashe��s suggestion madeplete sense, and the sword Princess and the Witch naturally agreed immediately.


    However, as the sports car crossed the Rain Curtain, Deya, prompted by her sisters�� reminders, suddenly realized, ��Are we not fighting tonight because of my issue?��


    ��Heh!�� Sonya suddenly let out a loud sneer, pulling Deya close and ncing at Ashe through the rearview mirror. ��Do you think he would be that considerate?��


    Ashe��s mouth twitched, and he had to follow Sonya��s lead, speaking in a deliberately indifferent tone, ��We��ve alreadye up empty at several resource points today. Continuing to scavenge would be inefficient. It��s better to look for those special buildings. We might find something unexpected.��


    Ashe wasn��t wrong. In the past hour, they had scoured five resource points, and two of them were empty. Not only were there no resources, but even the knowledge creatures had fled. But it��s currently the Blood Tomb��s turn, and ording to the Blood Tomb Map Ashe held, there should have been knowledge creatures guarding those major resource points.


    This could only mean one thing: The Blood Tomb had dispatched its heroic soul legion to reim resources!


    The evidencey in the fact that, for over an hour, no heroic soul legion had chased them, indicating that the Blood Tomb forces had shifted to a defensive strategy, perhaps even executing a scorched-earth policy to reim all resources and protect the main city.


    It��s not hard to understand why. Whether or not the Spider Tower had captured the main city of Oasis, the fact that it had triggered the Great Appointment of the Six Nations was now a certainty. Consequently, all factions would cancel their developmental ns and enter a state of high alert.


    Ashe even suspected that the Blood Tomb knew he was the fuse of the Oasis War. If he dared approach the Blood Tomb��s main city, he might be met with thousands of armed legions ready to obliterate him.


    Therefore, Ashe no longer nned to continue upgrading the Alchemy Throne. Further upgrades would require too many resources, and future resources would only be scarcer. Under the current circumstances, seeking out other special buildings would be more beneficial than looting resource points.


    But Deya wasn��t so easily fooled. ��Even if we��re not looting resource points, we can hunt downrge knowledge creatures. Experience Orbs and spirits are also steady sources of ie. And even if we are seeking special buildings, we can loot resource points along the way. There��s no need to give up fighting!��


    ��So you��re really taking care of me because I��ve been distracted and made mistakes tonight, right?�� Deya said, looking down at her knees. ��I��m sorry, it��s all my fault tonight����


    Ashe couldn��t help but say, ��Actually����


    ��Actually, Observer, you think the Witch is a burden! That��s why you��re so quick to abandon fighting, so she won��t drag you down or even get you killed!�� Sonya interjected, hugging the Witch tightly and ring at Ashe. ��This is exactly the kind of person the Observer is��so profit-driven and heartless! He doesn��t trust hispanions at all!��


    This! Sword! Princess!��


    Ashe took a deep breath, speaking in a cold voice, ��That��s your theory, not mine.��


    ��I��m sorry!�� Deya said loudly, rubbing her eyes forcefully. ��I��ve been affected by things in the real world, so I wasn��t focused on the battle just now�� But I��ve adjusted my mood. If I make any more mistakes, I��ll let the White Queen or the Scarlet Dead Apostles rece me, so I won��t affect our exploration. Observer, please follow the original route and loot the resource points.��


    ��You don��t need to apologize,�� Sonya said gently. ��Everyone has rough times. Taking a break for one night won��t stop us from bing Sanctuary spellcasters. Is there anything we can do to help?��


    Deya pped her face hard, making it turn red.


    ��If I expect others to amodate me just because I��m upset, unhappy, or confused, that��s childlike behavior,�� the Witch said seriously. ��I��m not a child anymore; I don��t have a favorite color.��


    She paused, clenching her fists, and said earnestly, ��Besides, I do have someone I can lean on. You don��t need to worry about me. In my case, I just need to go back and get a hug and a kiss from him, and I��ll be fine!��


    Sonya��s expression froze suddenly, and she forced a smile. ��Ah, oh, um�� that��s good then.��


    ��So, Observer, let��s proceed ording to the resource point looting route!�� Deya said. ��I��m okay now!��


    ��When you first made the request, I already thought about switching back to the original route,�� Ashe said tly. ��But halfway through, we found the Golden Flow blocking our path. Now, I��m driving along the edge of the Golden Flow, and the original route is no longer viable.��


    This situation is not umon; the distribution of the Golden Flow changes randomly every day and can block critical paths. For typical spellcasters, this is a good thing because most two-wings spellcasters encounter the Golden Flow daily. As long as they have the stamina to dive in and collect spirits, they won��t go home empty-handed today. However, for Ashe and his group, who have maps, the Golden Flow significantly lowers their efficiency.


    ��Then let��s pick a resource point along the way-��


    ��We��ve already reached a special building,�� Ashe interrupted, looking at a golden area marked ��Come Here�� on the virtual realm map. ��But the Blood Tomb Map doesn��t indicate what kind of building this is.��


    In fact, most special buildings are not marked, which is one reason why Ashe previously avoided exploring them. The rewards are too unpredictable. On reflection, it makes sense; the heroic soulmanders never enter virtual realm buildings, so they have no need to mark them. Moreover, even the heroic soulmanders may not recognize all the virtual realm buildings.


    ��Let me go in and check it out first. I��ll figure out the rules inside ande back to update you!�� Deya immediately said. ��If it��s something like the Amnesia Cabin, you won��t need to take the risk of going in!��


    Given that the virtual realm mapbeled it ��Come Here,�� it likely means there��s no inherent danger inside. However, Ashe understood that this was Deya��s way of making up for her earlier mistakes. And, to be honest, he wouldn��t mind some alone time with the sword Princess as well. So with a nod, he agreed, ��Leave it to you, Witch.��

 Chapter 436: The Sword Princess Breaks Down

    Deya energetically reached out to high-five Ashe, gave the Sword Princess a hug, and then jumped into the sports car, driving into the rain curtain.


    ��Finally, it��s just the two of us.��


    Ashe turned to look back, quite dissatisfied, and said, ��Sword Princess, why did you have to sow discord in front of the Witch, making me the bad guy? If the Witch ends up hating me because of this, it will be a real problem�� what��s wrong with you?��


    Ashe spoke for a while before realizing that the Sword Princess was staring gloomily at the reverse golden rain outside. She was pouting angrily,pletely different from the gentle and considerate demeanor she had in front of the Witch. She didn��t even spare him a nce, practically warning him with an ��Inside: Dangerous Cat, Very Sensitive�� sign.


    ��The Witch was finally cured, and now you have problems?�� Ashe sighed, rubbing his forehead. ��I��m not a psychologist�� If only we had one on our team, it would save us a lot of trouble����


    Seeing that the Sword Princess still ignored him, Ashe used the Heart Pen to write a few lines in front of her:


    ��Do you prefer the deep sea or the starry sky?��


    ��What do you want for dinner, braised L Fatty or stir-fried L Fatty with bamboo shoots?��


    ��Do you like thigh-high socks or stockings?����Do you prefer gold coins or silver coins?��


    ��Of course, I prefer gold coins!�� Sonya grumbled, ��I��m not an idiot!��


    Ashe blinked and continued his previous question, ��Why did you badmouth me in front of the Witch? I haven��t offended you recently, have I?��


    ��Although we usuallymunicate normally, to make the Witch drop her guard against us, it��s best if we appear to be in a hostile state,�� Sonya exined. ��Since I��m responsible for helping the Witch, you have to be the one opposing her, so she can quickly get closer to me.��


    ��Moreover, who said you haven��t offended me recently?��


    Ashe looked innocent, ��How did I offend you? I barely said a few words just now!��


    Sonya looked at him wistfully.


    Ashe hadn��t actually offended her with his words. The one who had offended her was the Witch.


    The moment she heard that the Witch could go home and find someone to be affectionate with after this, the Stretch Paw Club President broke down instantly!


    She broke down! She panicked! Her mental state copsed! She realized she was the real clown!


    Originally, Sonya��s n was going quite well. She would y the good person and make the Observer the bad guy. This way, the Witch would be close to her and distance herself from the Observer. Not only would she be the core of the team, but more importantly, she would prevent any chance of the Observer and the Witch forming a deeper rtionship.


    Not just now, but in the future, if there were new teammates, Sonya would still follow this method. Overall, her goal was to encourage everyone to iste the Observer so she could enjoy the benefits alone.


    But the Witch��s words were like piercing armor with wind fury and adding poison, making Sonya extremely anxious. And Ashe still had an innocent and confused expression, making Sonya feel like his very breathing was offending her now.


    The Sword Princess took a deep breath, forcing herself to clear the annoyance from her mind. Pointing to the lines of ink beside her, she asked, ��What will we do with this stuff when the Witches back?��


    Ashe blinked. He recalled the Heart Pen and found there was indeed no way to undo it. The one-time ink didn��t require him to use his spellforce because it had already be independent, but naturally, he also lost control over it.


    ��Use your sword to sh them away.��


    Sonya stared at Ashe as he drew his long sword, making Ashe feel as though he was about to be cut down.


    However, it wasn��t convenient to swing the sword while sitting in the car, and the ink was right outside the car door. If she pushed the door open and went out, she would get stained by the ink. After a brief moment of thought, the vige girl jumped out of the car into the air and used ��Evil Light sh�� to eliminate all the ink, then elegantlynded in the rain curtain outside��


    ��Are you stupid!?��


    Ashe instantly rushed out and carried the Sword Princess back into the car, noticing that her legs had begun to show signs of aging. He was furious, ��Didn��t I just say that I was driving along the Golden Flow? Jumping out like that wouldnd you directly in the Golden Flow��s area! You don��t belong to the Time Sect; can��t you smell that strong tea-like time scent of the Golden Flow?��


    ��Uh-huh.�� The Sword Princess made a soft, cute nasal sound, as if acknowledging her mistake.


    Hearing the obedient tone of the Sword Princess in his arms, Ashe also softened his tone, ��But it��s partly my fault too. I was just trying to quickly bypass this section of the Golden Flow and didn��t realize we got too close.��


    ��Uh-huh.��


    ��Have your legs recovered? Can you walk on your own?��


    ��It still feels a bit off.�� The Stretch Paw Club President tilted her head. ��I think my waist might have been corroded a bit by the Golden Flow. It feels weak, and if you don��t hold me tighter, I might just copse����


    ��Why has your soul be so weak?�� Ashe found it strange. ��Could it be the curse from the Chaotic Shopping Book?��


    ��Maybe. I bought a downgrade in constitution, and since the body and soul are closely rted, it��s not surprising there��s an impact.�� The Sword Princess wriggled restlessly. ��What about you? Has your bad luck purchase affected your life?��


    Ashe paused slightly, suddenly remembering that the curse he purchased was the ��no toilet paper�� one. Then he had returned to reality only to have the Gospel used to wipe�� He felt like the ��Dramatic Poet�� was mocking him.


    ��I think the word ��impact�� is a bit too gentle for this����


    ��I��m back!��


    Deya emerged from the Rain Curtain, seeing the Observer silently watching the Sword Princess, who was sitting properly in the back seat. She curiously asked, ��Did something happen while I was gone?��


    ��No.�� Sonya replied, ��Witch, did you investigate the special building inside?��


    ��Yes, I did.�� Deya nodded, ��It appears to be the Fate Questioning you both mentioned, but the format seems slightly different.��


    Fate Questioning!?


    Ashe and Sonya immediately became alert. When they followed Deya inside, they found it was indeed different from the Fate Questioning in the Sea of Knowledge��


    They saw a round table with three chairs, three pieces of paper, and three pairs of headphones.


    The three exchanged nces, then sat down face-to-face and put on the headphones. The first thing they heard were the rules: ��The Fate Questioning listening test will now begin. Answer questions based on the content of the dialogue. Failure to answer correctly will result in immediate termination. Correct answers allow you to continue. If the number of correct answers is greater than or equal to 1, the respondent has the right to ask questions.��


    Sonya exchanged a quick look with the others and then heard the following conversation through her headphones��


    ��Witch, what do you think is the meaning of our lives?��


    ��Revenge.��


    ��No, I mean, since we were born into this world, we must have certain missions only we canplete. What do you think our true mission is?��


    ��Even if it burns down the whole world, we must have revenge.��


    ��Question: Who do we need to avenge?��


    ����The world ��The Observer ��The Divine Sovereign �� All of the above��

 Chapter 437: Hold Me Again

    Fate Questioning �C The Listening Test!


    Actually, it wasn��t much different from the Fate Questioning of the Sea of Knowledge. The only change was that the questions were reced with dialogue content. Compared to straightforward questions, this added a lot more information: Sonya could discern that the speakers were herself and the Witch, and the conversation took ce at least ten yearster, because her voice had be richer yet not thin, husky yet not dark�� It was like the tone Drose would use when ying a mature beauty. Just by listening, Sonya could picture herself as a rose with thorns.


    The Witch was the same. Her voice no longer had the youthful innocence it currently possessed��even when she uttered the word ��revenge,�� itcked the purity one would expect.


    ��Revenge�� is a word tinged with a fairytale quality, much like ��love.�� How could someone harbor love or hate for four or five years like in a TV drama?


    Life dilutes everything; all intense emotions eventually fade to inness.


    However, when the Witch spoke the word ��revenge,�� it was as calm as discussing dinner ns. This indicated that revenge wasn��t a fleeting impulse for her but a mission she mustplete, an obstacle she had to ovee to continue living, and a life goal intertwined with her interests.


    The key point was that when the Witch said the word, it seemed to include her��did they have somemon target for revenge?


    Sonya looked at Deya, only to find Deya equally puzzled. After the three of them removed their headphones and exchanged looks, Ashe coughed deliberately and asked solemnly, ��Do you want to discuss this together, or handle it yourselves?��


    If it had been just Ashe and the sword Princess, Ashe would have unceremoniously asked her directly what juicy gossip she had just heard. But since the dynamic in the team was currently framed as ��Observer vs. sword Princess and Witch,�� Ashe had to stick to the script.As long as it reduced internal conflict, Ashe didn��t mind ying the antagonist. Although Ashe always felt that the sword Princess had ulterior motives, this hierarchical model was indeed more beneficial for team management.


    Ashe had seen teams at hispany where ��superiors and subordinates blend seamlessly,�� but that led to ack of authority for the superiors, resulting in subordinates touching fish, cking off, working from the restroom, and even rebelling.


    To be fair, Ashe��s previous attitude of discussing everything with the team was actually a mistake and the Source of Cmity that caused internal conflicts��because once something is open for discussion, it can be contested, leading to favoritism and partiality.


    Wasn��t it precisely because the sword Princess discussed andmunicated with him too much that the Witch felt insecure and suspected the possibility of being abandoned?


    It��s not that discussions are uneptable, but Ashe needs to have decisive authority, deterrence, and credibility to ensure that his will can be effectively implemented at all times.


    Ideally, the operators would trust and support him. If achieving this perfect team dynamic was impossible, then at the very least, Ashe needed to ensure that even if the operators didn��t trust him, they wouldn��t dare defy him!


    Apparently, regardless of the state, Ashe had a long way to go. Sometimes Ashe wondered if it would have been better not to draw new operators initially. After all, upon leaving the Sea of Knowledge, he and the sword Princess already made a perfect team, and their duo had significant advantages.


    Other spellcasters couldn��t even dream of having a ��mutual growth and trust partner,�� while Ashe not only had one, but he also had a ship and a vehicle. What more could he want?


    Was it really necessary for him to draw the Witch as a new operator?


    But quickly, Ashe had his answer: it was necessary.


    The heroic soul legion, Golden Flow, resource point scavenging�� The Witch brought a substantial increase to the team��s capabilities. As a support-based DPS, her importance to the team was invaluable. There were many resource points that even if Ashe and the sword Princess could conquer, it would take a long time and they would likely get injured. The presence of the Witch enhanced the team��s efficiency by at least two or three times.


    Most importantly, the team��s loot harvest was now abundant, making it foolish to let the sword Princess use it to trade for money. For every spellcaster, resources yield diminishing marginal returns. Initially, the sword Princess did use these spoils to gain resources she could use. For example, her Miracle ��Sharpen Sword for Ten Years�� no longer needed to be used sparingly. However, this enhancement effect would rapidly diminish because the number of spirits the sword Princess could use was limited, and she only needed to master some specific Miracles.


    It��s like ying a game. Sonya already had the best equipment with the top-notch lighting, bought the most expensive skins, and ordered the best food delivery. If she wanted to continue improving her strength, she had to focus on advancing in the Sect Realm.


    At this point, having one more operator to train became incredibly significant. In fact, the more operators there were, the more efficient the conversion of resources to team strength would be.


    As for why strength was necessary��


    Many images shed through Ashe��s mind: Lise, Igor, Annan, Qenna, Harvey,vish manors, the everyday life of waking up naturally, and meeting with the sword Princess and the Witch, but not in the Virtual Realm��


    It wasn��t just about him; the sword Princess and the Witch needed strength even more. Therefore, he had no reason to becent. Once he saved enough points, he would continue making In-game Purchases for card draws. The team had to keep growing, even if it meant increasing his management costs.


    ��When will I be a captain exuding authority���� Ashe was filled with a longing for power��after all, he was almost promoted to an operational director!


    Faced with Ashe��s suggestion, Sonya immediatelyined: ��Although I��m not at all happy about sharing my future with you, to improve the uracy of our answers, I canpromise. Also, the conversation I heard was between me and the Witch. I think it needs to be disclosed.��


    ��I have no objections,�� Deya said curiously. ��Was it a conversation between the future me and you?��


    Sonya nodded, then ryed the conversation and the questions. She asked: ��Witch, do you have someone you seek revenge against? Is it rted to your unease tonight?��


    Deya immediately shook her head: ��No! I don��t have any particr target for revenge, not even my grandmother, who put me through the Armoring Ritual. I don��t harbor any thoughts of revenge!��


    Despite being trapped in a high tower since she was young, Deya didn��t hold any resentment towards her grandmother. While she lost her freedom, she gained a carefree childhood. Especially after leaving the tower and experiencing the outside world with Ashe and the others, she understood that her grandmother didn��t owe her anything and had no intention of harming her.


    Ultimately, all she had encountered was simply the predetermined fate of the Yisuo n; her grandmother was merely part of a long chain of tragedies.


    So, what she sought wasn��t revenge, but rebellion.


    Since they couldn��t extract useful information from the conversation, they could only analyze the answers.


    ��The world seems too broad, and the Divine Sovereign���� Sonya had a strange expression on her face, ��Are we really powerful enough to take revenge on the Divine Sovereign?��


    For most spellcasters, the Divine Sovereign is less of a tangible ��god�� and more of a symbol, a set of rules, or even the world itself. No one has ever seen the Divine Sovereign, and no one can escape its influence. How do you take revenge? On the sun? On a storm? On the ocean?


    Thus, ��the Divine Sovereign�� and ��the world�� were almost equivalent options. So��


    As the Witch and the sword Princess looked at him, Ashe remained very calm: ��Although I also think that I might be the most reasonable answer, the problem is, I��m the only one among these options that you know.��


    Sonya paused slightly, then quickly realized: ��That��s right, the Fate Questioning isn��t supposed to be a knowledge-based trial for us to ��figure out�� but a gamble based on luck. If the answer is that obvious, it must be a decoy!��


    Deya nodded in agreement as she listened. Although she hadn��t experienced the Fate Questioning in the Sea of Knowledge, she thought it made a lot of sense: ��And I can��t imagine why I would seek revenge on the Observer�� If it was the sword Princess seeking revenge, that I could understand.��


    Sonya��s face turned slightly red as she gave a little humph: ��I can��t wait to part ways with him as soon as possible.��


    Deya blinked��Hey, I didn��t say anything.


    After hesitating for a moment, Deya said, ��Actually, the conversation I overheard was also very strange. I��m not sure if it��s rted to the sword Princess��s question.��


    Then Deya��s hair began to change color; first, she transformed into a sweet girl with white hair: ��Next, let the White Queen and����


    Then she changed into a cool beauty with ck hair: ��And the ck Butler reenact the conversation.��


    The ck Butlerughed maniacally: ��Hahaha, you��re killing me! Didn��t you want to catch me? Come on, catch me, and then we��ll both be captured by the Tribtion Fire Temple! They will absolutely burn us both to ashes! Hahaha!��


    The White Queen said calmly, ��We won��t be caught. Our master will definitelye to save us. Witch, let��s cooperate for now.��


    The ck Butler sneered, ��Oh, really? If that��s the case, where is that demon now? You were supposed to act together, weren��t you? But why are you the only one trapped here with me? Could it be that, like me, you��ve finally been abandoned as well? Abandoned~~huh!?��


    The White Queen said resolutely, ��The master will not abandon me.��


    The ck Butler retorted sarcastically, ��Ah, such a loyal love. Can you open your mouth and let me spit in it? Everyone is just a tool for that demon, including you! Why? Why are you still willing to be used by him? Don��t you realize you��ve never been loved?��


    The White Queen replied passionately, ��Why wouldn��t the master use others but choose to use me? He must still love me, and he is always so gentle with me.��


    The ck Butler screamed hysterically, ��Yes, he is gentle, but there isn��t a trace of love in his eyes��I��m going insane! What did I do wrong to be so unfortunate as to encounter you two demons! One madman! One fool!��


    The White Queen said, ��So, are we going to cooperate? They��re almost here. We won��t escape if we don��t work together.��


    The ck Butler suddenly calmed down. ��I can cooperate, but you have to agree to one condition.��


    ��What condition?��


    ��Just like before, hold me once more.��


    ��Question: What was the rtionship between the two speaking?��


    ����Friends


    ��Colleagues


    ��Rtives without blood ties


    ��All of the above��

 Chapter 438: Silly Woman

    After presenting her topic, Deya reverted to her previous state and hastily said before anyone could ask a question, ��I have no recollection of the other speaker.��


    ��None at all?�� Sonya asked curiously. ��From the conversation, it sounds like you were very close. But for some reason, you separated. She and her master were trying to capture you, but something went wrong, putting you both in a dire situation�� you even wanted to hug her.��


    ��That��s precisely what confuses me,�� Deya tilted her head, a puzzled look on her face. ��I don��t have any female friends that close.��


    If it were a male voice, there was no need to ask; it could only be her favorite, Ashe.


    But the voice was a clear, wind-chime-like, and constantly captivating female voice, someone Deya didn��t know in real life!


    The closest match to that voice was Aunt Bukin, but he was a man!


    The most likely candidate was Annan, but Annan��s voice wasn��t that sweet, and Lise wasn��t that close with Annan either. In terms of intimacy, Aunt Bukin was even closer than Annan. Neither Lise nor Deya would crave Annan��s hugs!


    Among all the people she knew in real life, except for Annan, there was no other woman!


    The only person who fit all the conditions was Ashe, but Ashe was a man. Based on her extensive reading of hundreds of fairy tales, Deya could onlye up with this story: Ashe was dominated by Igor and transformed into a woman. This would exin everything. ��Master�� and ��demon�� referred to Igor, and the ��she�� in the conversation was Ashe. Naturally, Deya would be enraged by Ashe��s predicament.But this hypothesis was too far-fetched, only feasible in fairy tales. Thus, Deya couldn��t help but look at Sonya��if it wasn��t someone she knew in real life, then it could only be a friend she met in the Virtual Realm.


    Sonya immediately shook her head. ��I wouldn��t call anyone master, and that kind of love-crazy behavior isn��t in my character.��


    Deya also felt it wasn��t the sword Princess. After all, in the Amnesia Cabin, the sword Princess had made it clear that the only person she valued was herself. Neither family nor lovers could override her personal will.


    Moreover, the ��she�� in the conversation sounded silly and sweet, like an adorable and innocent youngdy,pletely different from the elegant yet fierce sword Princess.


    ��And I also feel that the ��Witch�� mentioned in the conversation is vastly different from you sisters,�� Sonya said. ��Do any of you have such a�� circus-like personality?��


    Deya shook her head repeatedly. She also felt that the ��Witch�� in the conversation didn��t resemble her at all: chaotic, dark, and gloomy. If she and her sisters were defined by their distinct and vibrant personalities, then the Witch in the conversation was like murky and filthy ck and gray.


    But the voice was unmistakable, and coupled with the mention of the ��Witch�� codename, it seemed important. More crucially��if neither party in the conversation was Deya, then what did this question have to do with her?


    Ashe suggested, ��Is there a possibility that these two questions are connected? For instance, the target of the sword Princess��s revenge could be the ��demon�� or ��master�� mentioned in the Witch��s question?��


    Sonya thought that made sense and asked, ��Observer, do you have someone who loves you so devotedly that they would call you ��master��?��


    ��No!�� Ashe immediately shook his head. ��In real life, I don��t get involved with women; I��m always surrounded by men. There��s no one who loves me that devotedly!��


    Sonya: ��Then who would call you ��master��?��


    ��Actually, I have a hypothesis.�� Ashe ignored Sonya��s question entirely. ��Do you think ��world�� could be a person��s name? Or perhaps a nickname?��


    Sonya hesitated. ��If that��s the answer, then the difficulty of getting it right seems too high����


    ��Maybe as the Virtual Realm��s levels increase, the difficulty of the questions also increases. The Fate Questioning at the Third Layer of the Virtual Realm might even ask us about our children,�� Ashe said casually. ��But that would exin things��there��s a demon named ��world�� who has a female follower. The Witch is destined to encounter ��world�� and his follower, leading to a grudge.��


    Though it sounded far-fetched, there was no better hypothesis. Mainly because the Witch was adamant that she didn��t know any woman in real life who fit the conversation, the only possibility left was that she didn��t yet know the other speaker.


    Deya suddenly realized that Ashe and the others had already developed a notorious reputation in Gospel. After the Weaving Festival, they definitely wouldn��t be able to stay there and would likely leave for another Kingdom. Considering they weren��t new to traveling abroad, her sisters had no attachment to Gospel either. Once their bodies returned to normal, they would surely follow Ashe, leaving together.


    So, it��s possible that the ��she�� and ��master�� mentioned in the conversation were new characters Lise Deya would meet in another Kingdom?


    ��What should I choose for my question?�� Deya asked.


    ��Actually, the first three answers to your question are pretty simr. I suggest picking all of them,�� Ashe said. ��Based on our previous Fate Questioning experience, it��s best to select all that you can for the first question. However, the sword Princess��s first three options are vastly different; she definitely can��t simultaneously seek revenge on the world, me, and the Divine Sovereign, right?��


    Both Sonya and Deya nodded, put on their headphones, and wrote their answers on paper. Soon, they received responses from the Virtual Realm��


    ��Congrattions, you got one question right. Would you like to continue?��


    ��You got it wrong. The Fate Questioning ends here.��


    Deya happily eximed, ��I got it right!��


    Sonya angrily retorted, ��I knew it couldn��t be ��the world��; that option was ridiculous. The correct answer was clearly the Divine Sovereign!��


    Ashe protested, ��When did you say that����


    ��I definitely did!�� Sonya red at Ashe, her cheeks puffing up in irritation. ��It��s all your fault for suggesting such nonsense�� hmph!��


    Ashe felt a kick from under the table from the sword Princess. Instantly tempering his frustration, he knew he had to maintain his stance as the team leader and not let an operator act so recklessly. But��what? The sword Princess had taken off her shoe?


    Moreover, her kicks were gentle, no stronger than a cat kneading. Looking down, Ashe saw a small foot d in ck stockings, its toes curling and sliding against his calf. So, Ashe had to suppress his anger, signaling with his gaze for the sword Princess to tone it down. But the Stretch Paw Club President instead lifted her chin defiantly, escting her antics.


    While the two were engaged in their silent battle, Deya started listening to the second question.


    ��Silly woman, lustfulpdog, all your nutrition went to your chest and hips, only thinking about crawling into that person��s bed����


    ��I�� am not�� silly����


    ��Out of everything I��ve insulted you with, that��s the only thing you want to refute? And you just proved how silly you are��why did you save me?! I must have been infected by you, actually carrying you while escaping!��


    ��Because�� master�� needs you�� needs your personality gift����


    ��If I hear you say ��master�� one more time, I��ll throw you out.��


    ��When I saw you in danger�� as soon as I realized it�� I was already in front of you, shielding you. Witch,e back with me to see the master�� I will protect you�� The master told me he wouldn��t harm you, which is why I came�� I��m sorry�� I��ve wanted to apologize since that day�� I��m sorry����


    ��You��re not allowed to apologize, no! The one at fault is him, you were just used by him, it has nothing to do with you!��


    ��No, I knew all the consequences, but for the master��s benefit alone, I�� if I could do it all over again, I would still do the same����


    ��What��s so great about him? You��ve spent countless nights on him, but he��s never seen the moon!��


    ��We still have plenty of time�� eventually we��ll be together����


    ��I give up on you, you fool�� Alright, they shouldn��t be able to find us here for now. Let me treat your wounds.��


    ��Witch����


    ��Hmm?��


    ��Your hair is loose, let me tie it up for you.��


    ��Question: What is the ��silly woman�� actually here to do?��


    ����Violent abduction of a witch; �� Persuading a witch; ��Setting a trap to confine a witch; �� Visiting a witch.��

 Chapter 439: The Future Me Cheated

    Chapter 439: The Future Me Cheated


    ��How pitiful����


    After Deya performed the dialogue, she couldn��t help but feel sorry for the ��silly woman��. ��Such a devoted woman, why did she have to meet a man who doesn��t love her and only wants to use her?��


    ��It��s really sad.�� Sonya also had sympathy but felt more anger at the woman��s fate and her inability to stand up for herself. ��She could fight alongside you, Witch, which means she��s not weak. Why does she have to tie herself to someone? Can��t she live without depending on something? Without liking something, does she have no hope? Why degrade herself to the dust like this?!��


    ��Sword Princess,�� Ashe signaled for Sonya to control her emotions, ��not everyone is as strong as you. You are too powerful.��


    ��I��m not strong. I��m just a fragile girl dominated by you,�� Sonya said, still rubbing his shin with her stockinged foot. ��And what are two-wing spellcasters if not strong����


    ��When I say strong, I don��t mean in terms of power,�� Ashe exined. ��Not just you, Sword Princess, but also you, Witch. You both are ��strong�� in the sense of your life��s purpose��you can savor every dish that fate serves you.��


    ��Maybe you don��t think it��s worth being proud of, but life is like a buffet. Not everyone can keep eating.��


    ��I know two people: one of them ate something so terrible that ever since, he adds sugar and spice to everything, giving up on tasting the food, numbing his taste buds with the intensity and waiting for the day it kills him; the other person never ate crap, but he found the canteen environment to be a toilet, so he stopped enjoying the food and instead focused on adding crap to everyone else��s dishes, as only then could he find joy in life.��


    ��Then, there are many who give up on themselves, living aimlessly, or even ending their lives early��because they consecutively ate several dishes as bad as crap at the buffet and don��t want to eat anymore. If you tell them to live seriously, their response would be, ��What, you want me to keep eating crap?������This ��she�� in the conversation might be in such a situation. ��She�� may have already decided to leave the buffet, maybe because the food is terrible, or maybe because the environment is unpleasant�� Just when ��she�� was about to leave, someone pulled ��her�� back, and ��she�� found that as long as ��she�� stayed with this person, any food would taste delicious, and any environment would seemfortable.��


    ����She�� may not be as brave as you, but this situation that frustrates you might already be the best circumstance ��she�� can achieve.��


    ��Of course,�� Ashe paused, ��the person who is using ��her�� is indeed irredeemable scum.��


    ��Absolutely!��


    ��Agreed!��


    Although they had different views about the ��silly woman��, there was unanimous consensus among the three of them regarding the ��master��: a scumbag who exploits a girl��s infatuation deserves to be chopped up and fed to L Fatty!


    Deya had already made up her mind that if she ever met the ��silly woman�� from the conversation, she would do everything in her power to help her break free from the scumbag��s domination.


    Though both Witch sisters weren��t very good at advising people, if mental control was involved, they could ask Aunt Bukin for help. If it was purely because of deep infatuation, then it would be time for Ashe to step in-Deya didn��t know how Ashe would handle it, but she believed he would be just as indignant and would figure out a way to save the ��silly woman.��


    ��So if it��s not the ��world��, then her master is a Divine Sovereign?�� Sonya spected. ��Or is it that my and the Witch��s issues are unrted? The one we��re seeking revenge on isn��t the ��silly woman��s�� master?��


    ��There��s too little to go on, we can only specte,�� Ashe said. ��But it wouldn��t be surprising if it were a Divine Sovereign. Perhaps the Divine Sovereign sent an avatar down to deceive people, or maybe the Divine Sovereign fell for some reason and is slowly regaining power, using their charm along the way to turn various people into loyal followers����


    As Ashe spoke, he noticed that the Sword Princess and the Witch were looking at him with a subtle gaze. He cleared his throat. ��Let��s not discuss whether I am a Divine Sovereign, but the real question is, are you loyal?��


    Deya looked at Sonya, who stuck out her pink tongue yfully. ��I��m not unreasonable. I admit there��s a reason for everything. So I��ll return just as much as I receive. If you want my full-hearted loyalty, you have to give me everything first.��


    ��See,�� Ashe shrugged, ��my charisma is so poor that I can��t even attract that loyal of a follower. Also, in reality, I��m just�� well, let��s get back to the topic.��


    Ashe was about to share something about his real life, but Annan��s information restriction Pact immediately silenced him. He couldn��t evenin about his status as a worker.


    Deya nodded and asked, ��So, which of these four answers should I choose?��


    ��It definitely can��t be ����Violent abduction of a witch,���� Sonya analyzed. ��It��s clear that ��she�� had a good rtionship with the Witch and that the ��master�� had promised not to harm the Witch. So, ��she�� couldn��t have resorted to violence.��


    ������Persuading a witch�� is also unlikely,�� Ashe added. ��From the tone, you can tell the Witch holds deep grudges against them and wouldn��t be swayed by mere sweet-talk. ����Setting a trap to confine a witch�� doesn��t fit either. If there had been a trap, the Witch would��ve been caught by now.��


    ��So, it must be ����Visiting a witch,���� Sonya concluded confidently. ����She�� didn��t really want to capture the Witch; she just used it as an excuse to meet the Witch and apologize. Completing the mission would be a bonus, but even if she failed, her primary goal would have been achieved.��


    Their analysis matched exactly with the sisters��, so Deya put on her headphones and chose the answer. The Virtual Realm immediately checked her test:


    ��You got it wrong. The Fate Questioning ends here.. You may start asking questions.��


    ��What?!�� Everyone was shocked. How could that be wrong?


    ��Let me go over this,�� Sonya said, furrowing her brows. She retracted her foot from Ashe and began to unconsciously curl her toes. ���� is absolutely impossible. ��Persuading�� implies offering something of benefit, right? But ��she�� merely emphasized not harming the Witch and forming an alliance. That hardly makes her a convincing interlocutor.��


    ��Could it be �� then? It��s possible. ��She�� did mention the original n was for ��her�� and the ��master�� to capture the Witch together, so violence could have been part of the n.��


    ��I think it should be ��,�� Ashe suddenly said.


    ��A trap?�� Deya was taken aback. ��But if it��s a trap����


    ��Do you remember thest part of the conversation?�� Ashe said. ����She�� wanted to braid the Witch��s hair.��


    ��If ��she�� is very familiar with me, that��s a normal behavior,�� Deya said. ��I��m not good at fixing my hair, so I often have others braid it for me.��


    ��But when ��she�� is braiding your hair, you��repletely off guard,�� Sonya murmured. ��Your nape is exposed to ��her�� touch. The cervical spine at the nape affects the central nervous system. If ��she�� has a way to restrain you, then you��vepletely fallen into the trap.��


    ��But, but���� Deya stuttered, desperately trying to find an excuse. ��Isn��t that too much of a coincidence? If ��she�� and I are originally enemies, and ��she�� gets close enough to touch my nape, trap or not, I would already be captured!��


    Ashe replied, ����She�� probably can��t capture you by force, so ��she�� has to earn your trust, making you drop your guard and even willingly expose your nape.��


    ��But I wouldn��t drop my guard that easily!�� Deya protested. ��From the conversation, we know that I became close to her because she saved me once while I was being pursued. But how could she possibly calcte that pursuit into her n����


    ��Really impossible?�� Sonya asked suddenly. ��Escaping a chase unharmed, and even finding a safe hiding ce��do you think maybe your luck was a bit too good?��


    Deya froze, unable to refute anymore.


    But she was still unwilling to believe this possibility. The Sword Princess and the Observer had only heard her recounting, but Deya had listened to ��her�� voice directly, ��her�� tone of care and affection. She was well aware of ��her�� genuine love and knew that the future Witch was truly fond of and reliant on ��her.��


    If all of this was fake and calcted, it would be unbearably sad.


    ��Maybe ��she�� really doesn��t know,�� Ashe suddenly said. ��Although ��she�� hasn��t appeared yet, let��s not forget the existence of the ��master.�� In the original n, the ��master�� was supposed to show up and capture the Witch long ago. However, despite being severely injured during the chase, they still haven��t appeared.��


    Sonya snorted, ��Because the pursuit team was too strong, and that cowardly ��master,�� who only knows how to manipte women, didn��t dare toe out.��


    ��But what if it was all schemed by the ��master��?�� Ashe suggested. ��The Witch isn��t weak; killing her and capturing her are two entirely different concepts. To ensure her capture, the ��master�� might have lured the pursuers and secretly adjusted the intensity of the chase, creating a high-pressure environment where the bonds between them rapidly intensified.��


    ��Braiding her hair might have been a scenario meticulously nned by the ��master.�� Once they were safe, the ��silly woman�� would definitely help braid the Witch��s hair. Maybe it was a ribbon imbued with a Miracle or some form of mental domination. In any case, the ��silly woman�� would unknowingly capture the Witch.��


    ��This is the only way to exin why the Witch let her guard down. Even if she herself lowered her defenses, her sisters would definitely remain cautious. Only in a scenario where the ��silly woman�� waspletely unaware could the Witch��s sisters fall into the trap.��


    Deya and Sonya nodded in agreement. This exnation ounted for many coincidences and the Witch��s trust. Moreover, the idea that ��it��s all that scummy master��s fault�� resonated well with their emotional needs.


    However��


    ��Observer, how did youe up with such a method so quickly?�� Sonya asked curiously. ��It sounds like a mental spellcaster��s scheme.��


    ��Could it be that you��ve seen a simr plot in fairy tales?�� Deya spected.


    ��Is it really that hard to figure out? Isn��t it just amon scheme?�� Ashe responded, bewildered. ��Maybe I have a vivid imagination. Besides, in the two conversations, the Witch seemedpletely unafraid of being captured. So thinking from the opposite perspective, the ��master�� couldn��t use conventional methods to capture her, and the ��silly woman,�� who has a good rtionship with the Witch, was clearly the best trap.��


    Although it sounds logical, the fact that the Observer could reconstruct the thought process of such a viinous character felt a bit unsettling. However, Sonya quickly brushed it off and looked at Ashe with sparkling eyes. ��So, what��s your question?��


    Ashe��s expression turned odd at the mention of his question. After a moment��s hesitation, he said, ��Let me tell you the question first.��


    ��Question: Among these three people, who is the Observer��s closest acquaintance?��


    ����The first person; ��The second person; ��The third person; ��None��


    Sonya��s eyes lit up, and Deya also showed a curious expression.


    ��What about the conversation?��


    Ashe continued, ��The answer is ��, the third person.��


    ��The conversation is the key! Information from the future is more valuable than any Fate Questioning rewards!�� Sonya urged. ��Come on, don��t be shy like a Little Trumpet.��


    ��I��m not shy,�� Ashe said, spreading his hands in exasperation. ��But the problem is����


    ��There was no dialog, only the answer itself. My future self cheated.��

 Chapter 440: Ashes Hidden Secrets of the Future

    Ashe��s listening experience waspletely different from the other two operators. If Sonya and Deya��s experience could be described as ��What? What? What are you talking about?�� his was extraordinarily clear.


    ��o(�R���Q)�� I��m here~~~ Let��s take it slow, tonight will definitely be a night to remember����


    ��Hey, wait, wait! Stop talking!��


    ��Someone��s listening, a Prophecy Sect Angel? Or the Divine Sovereign? No, this feels more pure, like the power of that one from Ruby Mountain�� I got it, it��s Fate Questioning!��


    ��But that can��t be right, how could Fate Questioning see me now?��


    ��Don��t move, don��t move, we��re being listened to, be serious�� ow!��


    ��Mm? Don��t talk, write in my palm�� Oh right, I used to have the Secret Incarnation for a while. These conceptual Incarnations are the best anchors. No wonder Ruby Mountain can connect me to the past, and the Secret Incarnationes with a ��stealth�� effect. Ruby Mountain hasn��t realized I��ve noticed the spying!��


    ��The answer is ��. I can��t say more, or Fate Questioning will delete this recording.��


    Perhaps out of intuition, or maybe to protect his image, Ashe concealed the first and fifth lines. But just the other self-narrations were enough to astonish the sword Princess and the Witch.����Stop talking��?�� Sonya��s eyes widened. ��From analyzing the options, you��re with at least three others, right?��


    Deya suddenly asked, ��Observer, have you ever revealed the Secret Incarnation in reality?��


    ��No, at least not now.��


    ��But in that content, someone reminded you about the Secret Incarnation by writing in your palm. So, that person is either me or the sword Princess?��


    Ashe hurriedly exined, ��It could also be a new operator in the future!��


    ��That��s still the same, isn��t it? They��re part of the team.�� Sonya blinked. ��So options �٢ڢ� refer to us? Is this question asking who among the team is closest to you?��


    ����That possibility cannot be ruled out.�� Ashe shrugged and said, ��But it��s also possible that I might disclose the Secret Incarnation in the future����


    ��Are you nuts? The Secret Incarnation is a conceptual Incarnation that affects the survival of rted Spellcasting Sects. Revealing it would do more harm than good!�� Sonya immediately responded. ��This secret must stay between us. Even future operators can��t know!��


    ��Alright, alright.�� Ashe just wanted to end the topic quickly. ��What we should be focusing on is the fact that my future self can detect Fate Questioning����


    ��Observer, what would you be doing with three other team members?�� Deya asked curiously.


    ��ying games or chatting.�� Ashe replied without missing a beat. ��What else could it be?��


    The vige girl suspiciously eyed the Cult Leader. ��Are you hiding something?��


    ��It��s clearly my future self hiding something!�� Ashe forcibly brought the conversation back on track. ��He knows he��s be listening material for Fate Questioning, yet he doesn��t take the opportunity to send me any Intelligence!��


    He��s definitely hiding something!


    But Sonya nced at the Witch, knowing now was not the time to press further, and said, ��Didn��t he already say that if he discloses any more information, Fate Questioning would definitely delete that recording.��


    ��But your future self seemed very surprised to be listened to.�� Sonya mused. ��Does that mean you��ve grown so powerful that you can block all prophecy surveince? But if your power grows, shouldn��t the Witch and I also grow in sync? Why wouldn��t we have that strength as well in the future?��


    ��Could it be due to different timelines?�� Ashe suggested. ��The future you heard might only be a few years from now, while the future I heard could be ten yearster.��


    ��And when you realized you were being listened to, your first reaction was to think it was being eavesdropped on by an Angel or the Divine Sovereign.�� Sonya murmured. ��Does that mean in ten years, you��ll reach the level of an Angel or Divine Sovereign? And you mentioned Ruby Mountain�� At the very least, you��re already a legendary spellcaster!��


    ��What is Ruby Mountain?�� Ashe asked curiously.


    ��Layer four of the Virtual Realm is called Ruby Mountain, also known as the Mountain of Legends, Half-step Heaven, or the Near-God Forbidden Zone,�� Sonya exined. ��Your future self is very familiar with the power of Ruby Mountain, even deducing that you were being recorded by Fate Questioning�� You��ve be so strong.��


    ��We��ve be strong,�� Ashe emphasized. ��We will climb the Virtual Realm together, and enjoy the breathtaking view from the summit.��


    The vige girl quickly brushed off her slight sense of inferiority and nodded, saying, ��It must be that my future self is too strong, so Fate Questioning couldn��t listen to me and had to choose a weaker version of me!��


    ��Wait a minute,�� Deya suddenly noticed something. ��Future Observer said that the Secret Incarnationes with a stealth effect, so it can counter-surveil the Virtual Realm��s probing. That means����


    ��Exactly!�� Ashe nodded excitedly. ��If Fate Questioning is always picking up from the distant future, then my future self is definitely helping me cheat!��


    ��Congrattions, you got one question right. Would you like to continue?��


    ��The listening material for question two is starting����


    ����Hmm? Has it started?��


    ��After thest session, I remembered there was indeed such a Fate Questioning, but it happened too long ago, and my situation was a bit chaotic back then�� so I didn��t recall it in time.��


    ��The Virtual Realm won��t let you take advantage forever. Fate Questioning should have already noticed something off�� The answer to this question is ��.��


    ��Our different selves at different times are not the same self. So, I won��t disclose anything about the future to avoid jeopardizing your present.��


    ��The Secret Incarnation is very useful.��


    ��Question: Observer�� (static)?��


    ����Thigh-high stockings ��sses ��Combat attire ��??? (static)��


    Ashe briefly described the situation of the second question. Sonya looked at him skeptically, ��You only heard static for the question and the fourth option? If you don��t want to say it, we won��t mind; we respect your privacy.��


    Deya nodded repeatedly and asked in confusion, ��But why would thigh-high stockings, sses, andbat attire appear together? What kind of question would ask about that?��


    Ashe shook his head and moved on to the third question. But he quickly took off his headphones and said to the operators, ��The third question was all static. The only word I could clearly hear was ��question.�� Even the question and options were chaotic. I picked one at random and got it wrong.��


    Seeing his genuine expression, the Sword Princess and the Witch believed him. If Ashe could really keep answering correctly by exploiting a loophole, it would actually make them more anxious.


    Many spellcasters are not afraid to offend the Divine Sovereign, but they hold a deep reverence for the Virtual Realm. To draw an analogy, the Divine Sovereign is like apany boss who controls your paycheck. Even if you embezzlepany funds, the Divine Sovereign might not care too much. However, the Virtual Realm is like a bank; would you dare exploit a loophole in a bank?


    With the Fate Questioning session over, it was time for the Q&A segment.


    Ashe and his team had already prepared their question �� just like in the first Fate Questioning, they intended to inquire about the Intelligence on Rainbow Tail.


    Although they had yet to fully extend their Golden Wings, with the absorption rate of the Alchemy Throne and the training boost from the sports car, they could probably achieve what would normally take other spellcasters a year in less than a month.


    However, extending the Golden Wings is only the basic requirement for promotion to three wings. Countless spellcasters get stuck in the Sect Realm for years or even decades, unable to break through to the Sanctuary level. Although the Sword Princess and the Witch are both geniuses, elevating their main sect to the Sanctuary level in a few months or a year seemed unrealistic unless they could consume Experience Orbs like snacks every night.


    Ashe estimated that only by exterminating the de Fish Dragon n on the Time Continent could the Sword Princess possibly be force-fed into the Sanctuary level.


    Thus, seeking Rainbow Tail was definitely worthwhile. With their past sess with the Golden Fish, they naturally wanted to experience the joy of another seamless crossing.


    However, in the second listening material from Ashe��s Fate Questioning, his ��future self�� had clearly hinted at how to utilize this Fate Questioning session.


    ����Your future self�� emphasized that the Secret Incarnation is very important,�� Sonya said. ��Yet our current utilization of the Secret Incarnation is almost non-existent. The conceptual Incarnation itself is a Secret Toxin; I didn��t dare inquire about it, and I couldn��t find anything useful in the documents�� If we want to understand how to use the Secret Incarnation, we have to seize this opportunity.��


    Ashe nodded. ��Now we have two opportunities to ask questions. We can ask once about the usage of the Secret Incarnation and once about Intelligence on Rainbow Tail.��


    After a brief discussion, they decided that Deya, who had answered correctly once, would ask about Rainbow Tail, and Ashe, who had answered correctly twice, would ask about the Secret Incarnation. Since Rainbow Tail undoubtedly falls under the category of Secret Toxin-level knowledge, no matter who asked, the Virtual Realm would likely give a vague response. However, the usage of the Secret Incarnation is not a Secret Toxin, so Ashe, who had answered more questions correctly, was bound to obtain more effective Intelligence.


    Of course, they still needed to be careful about how they phrased their questions. Otherwise, if the Virtual Realm responded with something like ��the best use of the Secret Incarnation is for heroic soulmanders,�� they would be left scratching their heads.


    Ashe asked, ��With the resources we currently have, how can we effectively utilize the Secret Incarnation?��


    The Virtual Realm provided a detailed response: ���� Use the ��Water-born Thread�� to bind the spirit summoned by the soul summoning spell. Then aim the ��Rage Sword�� and ��Evil Light sh�� at the spirit. When the Secret Incarnation feels threatened, it will share its first power; �� Kill amander of the Spider Tower, thereby unlocking the Spider Tower troop type. The Secret Incarnation will share its second power.��


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 441: We Are Just Like a Family

    Chapter 441: We Are Just Like a Family


    The spellcasters exchanged nces �� threatening a Spirit? Is that really an option!?


    ��In Spirit Rtionshipology, it does mention that spirits have a certain level of intelligence���� Sonya hesitated, ��But to not share their powers unless threatened, that��s really����


    ��Pretty annoying,�� Ashe concluded.


    Without dy, Ashe summoned the soul summoning Spirit, while Deya��s Water-born Thread, Sonya��s Evil Light sh, and Ashe��s Rage Sword all entangled it in their sights. Although, due to the pact, they couldn��t actually destroy the soul summoning Spirit, the anger in the Rage Sword and the killing intent in the Evil Light sh flowed unreservedly toward the tricolor crystal.


    Soon they saw numerous little ck shadows inside the crystal scurrying around as if it housed a small nation. Quickly, a piece of intelligence flowed into Ashe��s mind:


    ��Mysterious Power: Shrouded in mystery, your true identity remains unknown, allowing you to assume any role, gender, or identity. Your existence is inherently logical.��


    ��Troop Skill-Mystery: Units of your armed troop type will be perceived as neutral by all Virtual Realm creatures, only being considered hostile when entering a guarded area.��


    After Ashe shared the new skill with everyone, they immediately realized an issue �� not only had the ��Secret Incarnation�� but the ��Incarnation of the Stars�� had also concealed its true power from them, revealing only the enhancement effect for Star Prayer!


    Reflecting now, it became clear why an Empressmander could annihte a Starmander despite being of the same legion level. Why couldn��t thetter escape if they were losing? It must have been the camouge effect of the Mysterious Power, allowing the Empress��s legion tounch a surprise attack at close range, leaving the Starmander defenseless without most of their followers!Truthfully, the Mysterious Power was decent, but for them, it was somewhat redundant �� with their strength, unless they encountered a heroic soul legion, the Time Continent wasn��t enough for them to wreak havoc upon. Why would they need to disguise themselves as neutral units?


    However, after inquiring Rainbow Tail for Intelligence, Ashe and the others discovered that the Mysterious Power would soon prove useful.


    Thest time they consulted the Golden Fish, Ashe and Sonya strained their brains with yes-or-no questions trying to find out where the Golden Fish was in the sea, only to find out it was in the sky. It was absurd. While not entirely useless, it was like asking if you could bring a scientific calctor to a literature exam �� pointless.


    This time they decided on a more straightforward approach and let Deya ask directly, ��What should we do next to help us find Rainbow Tail?��


    The Virtual Realm responded, ��Obtain the Complete Realm Map of Time Continent.��


    Other spellcasters might be perplexed, not even knowing that such a map existed. However, Ashe and his group knew how to obtain the map �� by killing the heroic soulmanders in each region and taking their Commander Maps!


    ��Why does Rainbow Tail have to do with the Complete Realm Map?�� Sonya felt puzzled. ��Could it be that Rainbow Tail only appears on the map?��


    ��Could it be the main city?�� Deya spected, ��The main cities of the Six Nations might form a tail-like shape, and we can find the edge of that tail?��


    ��Don��t forget, this is Witch��s answer to a question. The Virtual Realm likely didn��t give an honest answer,�� Ashe reminded, ��Getting the Complete Realm Map is just helpful, not necessarily the decisive factor�� But regardless, it��s a direction.��


    ��But now the heroic soul legions have started retreating to defend; we can��t find them in the wild,�� Sonya said, ��Are we supposed to storm the main city regions?��


    ��Exactly.��


    ��Huh?�� Sonya immediately understood Ashe��s idea. ��You want to use the Mysterious Power to disguise yourself and infiltrate the main city regions? But if we get close to the heroic soul legions, we will still be discovered. Once a battle breaks out, the main city will certainly send an army to hunt us down����


    As Sonya��s voice trailed off, Deya also started to grasp the n. ��You want to recreate the Oasis main city battle?��


    ��That��s right,�� Ashe said. ��As long as I bring the Secret Incarnation to paint in other main city regions, the Spider Tower legion will likely follow. Then we can take advantage of the chaos to loot the battlefield.��


    ��Even if we fail, we��ll just waste a bit of soul power from a few troop types. At worst, we take a stroll and leave. But if we seed���� The Cult Leader smirked, ��I��ve been itching to use the Commander Handbook on you all; it��s far superior to the Experience Orbs.��


    Returning from the Virtual Realm to reality, Ashe sat up in bed and shook his head. He nced at the Gospel Book to check the time; it was just past 4 a.m.


    There was a strange noiseing from the upper bunk, like bones gnashing against each other. Still, Ashe was grateful he didn��t see any cockroaches when he opened his eyes; he couldn��t ask for more. The opposite bunk was empty, and he could hear faint water sounds from the bathroom. Suddenly feeling like taking a bath himself, he thought he��d ask Igor not to drain the bathtub to save the troubleter. On the opposite upper bunk, Banjeet leaned against the wall, writing on a notebook. Noticing Ashe��s gaze, the young butler smiled and greeted him.


    Ashe quietly got out of bed to get a drink of water and immediately ran into Little Lise at the door.


    ��Can��t sleep?��


    ��Mm-hmm.��


    Ashe thought for a moment, then made two cups of hot tea for himself and Lise. They went out to the balcony together. Outside, a cat was meowing, and a few Goblins at the street corner were drunkenly causing a ruckus. Cool wind blew through the cracks of the sped buildings. The night in Fidr was far from quiet, even a bit noisy, butpared to the foggy nights of Vamora or the bustling nights of Meph, Ashe enjoyed this kind of night more.


    ��Have you been happy these past few days?�� Ashe suddenly asked.


    ��Lise�� was slightly startled, then nodded vigorously. ��Yes, very happy!��


    ��I��m happy too,�� Ashe said. ��Although the room is a bit small, it��s much morefortable than in Vamora or Meph. Just seeing you study, watching the Substitute work, basking in the sun, watching TV dramas �� if we could just spend the entire Weaving Festival like this, that would be great����


    He ced the teacup on the balcony rail, squatted down, and looked at ��Lise��. ��We��re going to Nabistin next to assassinate the Princess. You must be very worried, maybe even scared enough that you couldn��t sleep and came to find me.��


    ��Lise�� blinked and then put down the teacup, moving over to grab Ashe��s hand. ��Mm-hmm.��


    ��Don��t worry, Annan is smart. She won��t make a move without absolute certainty, so we shouldn��t be in much danger�� Even if there is danger, we have a Pact. I will definitely protect you.��


    Ashe paused, his tone bing somewhat hesitant. ��Actually, there��s something I��ve been wanting to ask you����


    He knows?


    Did I slip up somewhere?


    Or did Igor figure something out?


    Lise��s body tensed, but she forced herself to stay calm. ��What is it?��


    Ashe held her by the shoulders, looking intently into her eyes. ��After the Weaving Festival ends, would you still want to live with me?��


    ��Lise�� looked at him nkly, her big eyes quickly filling with tears. Her lips pressed together, and her face turned red. Ashe smiled at the sight. ��You look like I��m bullying you.��


    ��You are bullying me,�� ��Lise�� sniffled, then threw her arms around his neck. ��That��s so unfair����


    ��What are you talking about?�� Ashe patted her head. ��I��ll take that as a yes. After the Weaving Festival, we��ll be a family.��


    Suddenly remembering something, ��Lise�� wiped her tears and said, ��You need to be careful of Aunt Bukin!��


    Ashe��s expression instantly became peculiar. ��Oh? Why?��


    ��He��s learned the Dominance Sect spells now. He will definitely look for a chance to dominate you!�� ��Lise�� said seriously. ��If he dominates you, he might turn you into a submissive female beast that only goes into heat����


    ��Thank you, Miss Lise, for your concern about my profession. Excellent suggestion, I��ll be sure to consider it.��


    Igor, toweling his hair as he walked through the living room, nced coldly at the duo who appeared to be father and daughter.


    ��Lise�� was stunned.


    So was Ashe.


    ��Hey, you can��t be serious! Answer me! Don��t leave me hanging like this��it��s terrifying!��

 Chapter 442: Two Matters

    Virtual Realm, Sea of Knowledge.


    A small boat suddenly emerged from the Whirlpool, with Freya, holding a little bat, sitting on it. Freya immediately spread her silver wings, noticing that her virtual wings were already starting to take shape.


    Even if she no longer took risks creating whirlpools, staying in the Virtual Realm for about another month should be enough to fully condense her silver wings.


    Though she had the little bat��s assistance, creating whirlpools was still quite a challenging task. First, they had to encounter a knowledge creature, then precisely control the blood to bring the target to the brink of death, and finally, they had to track the target until it naturally exhausted and perished in the sea, forming a whirlpool.


    It was quite normal for things to go wrong��killing the target identally, failing to catch up, or not encountering a knowledge creature at all. Despite having the Secret Toxin diary for several days, Freya had only sessfully created three whirlpools.


    ��Did you see that? I��m very close to condensing my silver wings!�� she joyfully told the little bat, ��Then I��ll be able to climb to the Time Continent, and maybe I��ll meet him in the Virtual Realm!��


    The little bat fluttered its wings. Although it said nothing, Freya almost felt as if she could understand its thoughts: ��You think my realm sect is not strong enough? Hmph, I don��t need to upgrade my realm sect to the Golden level. His diary contains intelligence about the Golden Fish!��


    ��Yesterday��s chapter ended with his discovery that the Sea of Knowledge is actually inside the Golden Fish��s belly. Today he will update how to find the Golden Fish��he surely also reached the Time Continent through the Golden Fish! After all, he��s evenzier than me. When we lived together, I never saw him train. Without smuggling, how could he have be a two-wings spellcaster from zero in just one month? I just need to follow his path, and I��ll catch up to him one day!��


    ��Speaking of which, the update should be out by now����Freya summoned the diary, seeing a red bookmark at the top right corner, indicating a new update.


    However, when she opened to thetest content, she found it wasn��t the next chapter on the Golden Fish.


    ��What? No new Golden Fish chapter, just leaving it hanging there? How mean!�� Freya let out a sigh, and the little bat on her shoulder seemed equally frustrated, nodding its head repeatedly.


    Although Ashe left it on a cliffhanger, she still had to read the new update.


    The Bewitcher looked down and found him writing today��s diary��


    ��June 8th, today I went through two events. The first happened in the morning, which annoyed me quite a bit but was within expectations. The second event urred at night and, although it seemed unrted to me,bined with the first, it addedyers of mystery and intrigue.��


    ��Chronologically, I should write about the first event first, but I feel like starting with the second.��


    In the afternoon, on the blue-glowing sky highway bridge, three Crow��s Non-Aerial Motorcycle Racers were speeding along the Miracle Road, moving so fast they seemed to transform into phantoms.


    Getting bolder, the rider of the middle motorcycle lifted the front wheel, riding on one wheel, frightening the passenger at the back, who clung tightly to the female rider: ��Young Lady, please can you steady the bike a bit?!��


    These three Crow��s Non-Aerial Motorcycle Racers were carrying part of the Funeral party. Banjeet and Harvey shared one bike, Ashe was with Annan, and Igor with Lise.


    Logically, Ashe should have shared a bike with either Lise or Igor, but since he couldn��t ride a motorcycle himself, he couldn��t carry Lise. Igor, on the other hand, firmly refused to have prolonged physical contact with Ashe, as if afraid Ashe might do something to him, making Ashe feel somewhat rejected.


    Initially, Ashe thought the arrangement was pretty good��he got to hold the Young Lady��s slender waist and enjoy the ride, truly a perk from the Firm. But once the bike got on the Miracle Road in the sky, all his romantic thoughts vanished��the speed was terrifying!


    Although Annan didn��t appear to be a goody-two-shoes, Ashe didn��t expect her to be this wild, pushing the motorcycle to its highest speed the whole way. Initially, Igor and Banjeet were driving leisurely, but she forced them to squeeze every bit of power from their steel monsters to keep up.


    Not only that, but she also loved performing various motorcycle stunts. Lifting the front wheel was just an appetizer; the true main course was the highway��s sharp turns.


    She first executed a high-speed corner drift, causing Ashe to feel as if he might smear across the highway and turn into a pile of mush. From then on, every time he saw the road, he clung to Annan as if trying to fuse himself with her.


    After what seemed like an eternity for Ashe, Annan finally slowed down a bit, her voice projecting from within her helmet: ��Having fun?��


    ��Fun? Hell no, I����


    ��Looks like my service wasn��t up to par. I still have plenty of tricks I haven��t shown����


    ��No, no, please, I��ve had enough. I can��t handle any more of your stunts, Young Lady.��


    ��Heh,�� Annan chuckled. ��I��ve always had this side to me. You better get used to it.��


    ��Isn��t this just a rare asion where we don��t use a hovercar?�� Ashe��s eyes widened. ��There are more rides like this in the future?��


    ��Of course, I love riding motorcycles,�� Annan replied. ��Do you like it?��


    For some reason, Ashe picked up a touch of nervousness and anticipation in Annan��s tone, as if she were sharing her most cherished passion with a friend. He suddenly realized that Annan probably hadn��t had many friends growing up, and this dangerous hobby of hers clearly didn��t have Banjeet��s approval. She might not have had anyone to share it with.


    More importantly, Ashe needed a way to stop Annan from speeding: ��I like it. Can you teach me how to ride?��


    ��But you don��t sound too enthusiastic.��


    ��I��ll try my best for you!�� Ashe said sincerely. ��Please teach me!��


    ��Sweet talker.�� Annan snorted withughter. ��No wonder you��re the man who eliminated the Evil Arts Ranking.��


    Ashe��s expression darkened. Just then, Annan suddenly crouched on the bike seat and asked, ��Are you ready?��


    Behind them, Igor and Harvey saw her movements and elerated, frantically honking their horns. Ashe, still confused, asked, ��Ready for what����


    Before he could finish, Annan lightly jumped up and settled back down, pushing Ashe into the driver��s seat while shended behind him, pressing against his back. In an instant, they swapped positions. Grabbing Ashe��s hands, she ced them on the motorcycle��s handlebars and exined, ��Left hand is the clutch, right hand is the front brake, left foot is for shifting gears, and right foot is the rear brake. Got it?��


    ��Can��t you teach me while driving?�� Ashe was on the verge of a breakdown; he feltpletely out of sync with the Young Lady��s pace.


    ��You learn faster when you��re the one driving,�� Annan replied matter-of-factly. ��Come on, don��t think about your back, just focus on driving.��


    Initially, Ashe hadn��t paid attention to her mention of his back, but now every nerve in his body seemed to zero in on it��leave it to the Young Lady to make him genuinely enjoy riding a motorcycle!


    With a master rider guiding him step-by-step, Ashe quickly picked up a new skill worthy of being added to his Spellcaster��s Handbook. Not only did he learn to ride, but he also instinctively got the hang of the ��elerate-decelerate-elerate-decelerate�� trick, until Annan twisted a piece of skin on his waist to make him stop goofing around.


    Once Ashe managed to drive the motorcycle at a steady pace, Annan suddenly said, ��Since this morning, the empire has canceled your wanted notice. Congrattions, you��re legal now.��


    ��It��s because of the Evil Arts Ranking, isn��t it?�� Ashe said, looking rather disheartened. ��But I can��t seem to feel happy about it at all.��

 Chapter 443: I Became a Substitute

    At 6 AM this morning, just as the sky was beginning to brighten and Ashe followed Igor into the bath, everyone��s Gospel Book popped out on its own.


    In just four days, the Gospel Book had already updated the fifth ranking list: the Evil Arts Ranking.


    As the name implies, ��Evil Arts�� refers to spellcasting sects considered malevolent.


    This definition is actually quite absurd. Even an ogre spellcaster with two brain cells to rub together knows that spells have no inherent moral value; it��s the spellcaster who determines good or evil. For example, the legendary necromancer of the Six Heraldry, who established the Beauty Houttuynia Farm for their family. Regardless of Ashe��s personal views, the Beauty Houttuynia Farm indeed turned Vamora into a happy and prosperous city, greatly increasing the productivity of its citizens. In this context, the Necromancy Sect is unquestionably advanced, just, and good.


    Though spells have no moral alignment, the environment in which they are practiced can be good or bad.


    Take the Necromancy Sect, for instance. In a heavenly ce where everyone is granted immortality and there are no sources of corpses, how can the necromancy be practiced? In such a paradise of immortality, the Necromancy Sect would be ssified as evil because practicing necromancy implies murder.


    In the Kingdom of the Gospel, evil arts are defined as those spellcasting sects that cannot be practiced within a normal society: gue, famine, war, death, chaos, despair�� for a spellcaster to practice these arts, they must deliberately induce societal copse. Thus, every evil spellcaster can be considered gravely sinful, and L Fatty��s fate is their ultimate destination.


    More importantly, these evil sects offer no benefit to productivity. At least necromancy increases corpse recycling efficiency, but gue, famine, war, and chaos? They all reduce productivity!


    Even other battle sects, while they might not increase productivity, at least they don��t decrease it!During the chaotic era when nations bordered each other, these evil arts could be used to defend the homnd. However, now that each nation stands on its own and one needs permission from the Virtual Realm just to travel abroad, state preparedness is entirely unnecessary.


    If it weren��t for the fact that the Virtual Realm requires constantbat and the Abyss needs powerful suppression, Ashe has no doubt that battle spellcasters would be considered the lowest on the pecking order (unless they are from a Legendary Sanctuary). Each era has its own prevailing themes, and in a stable society, creation spellcasters are the answer to all versions.


    If ordinary battle spellcasters are considered sewer dwellers, then evil spellcasters are undoubtedly the equivalent of the foulest sewers.


    Thus, today��s update to the Gospel��s Evil Arts Ranking lists the ten most repulsive sewer spellcasters for the next fifty years. In an era approaching Doomsday, they may not be remembered fondly, but they will certainly be infamous for generations. Each of them exploited social turmoil to orchestrate city-level catastrophes, bringing concepts nearly eradicated by the Gospel��gue, famine, war, chaos��back into the Kingdom.


    To be honest, Ashe doesn��t really have a strong stance against the people on the Evil Arts Ranking. He himself has done his share, and Igor has caused city-wide destruction on the Ranking of Schemes, while Harvey has created the top ten necromancer families listed on the Family Ranking. Compared to them, the people on the Evil Arts Ranking aren��t even fit to carry their shoes.


    If Ashe truly despised viins, he would activate his violent biker mode and kick the two motorcycles beside him off the highway bridge.


    But for one, Ashe believes the Gospel has simply misunderstood Igor and Harvey, and for another, he��s good friends with them, so naturally, he��ll side with his friends. Just as the Gospel constantly maligns him as the Source of Cmity, Igor and Harvey have never doubted him��in fact, Ashe wishes they would doubt him a little, as their unwavering faith makes him feel underestimated.


    Just like the Happiness Ranking, the Evil Arts Ranking was instantly nullified by Ashe. That��s why they were racing on the highway bridge��Annan had finally confirmed that all subsequent ranking lists would be nullified more quickly, allowing their ��Assassinate the Princess�� n to officiallymence. They no longer needed to y house in Fidr.


    However, the actions of ��Gospel Ashe�� on the Evil Arts Ranking left the original deeply dissatisfied.


    If ��Gospel Ashe�� had coerced, threatened, or even killed the Echoers on the Evil Arts Ranking, Ashe could have epted it, despite it not quite fitting his personality. ?��?????


    But ��Gospel Ashe�� chose to make them confess.


    Naive to the point of cruelty.


    In simple terms, ��Gospel Ashe�� appeared before the Echoers before they even embarked on their path of dark magic. He imnted vivid scenes of the disasters they would cause in the future, the overwhelming despair of their victims, and the pain inflicted by their evil arts directly into their minds. This forced them to repent for their sins and subsequently end their own lives.


    Perhaps the Empire��s Red Hat believed Ashe had performed a good deed this time, or maybe they thought the wanted notice against him had be meaningless. Regardless, they finally canceled the wanted notice, as if encouraging him to continue killing viins and doing good deeds in the future.


    Yet, Ashe was most dissatisfied with the Evil Arts Ranking.


    If the first three ranking lists misrepresented his character, and the Happiness Ranking twisted it, then the Evil Arts Rankingpletely reshaped his character.


    In the ranking, ��Gospel Ashe�� was seen judging the Echoers for crimes they hadn��t yetmitted. Not to mention that he had the capability to reform these Echoers, which was far too saintly for Ashe��s tastes��he had no interest in saving potentially fallen souls.


    ��However, ��Gospel Ashe�� could have simply killed the Echoers with a single sword strike, whether it was to undermine the Gospel, save the world, or even out of sheer loathing. But instead, he insisted on forcing repentance first, positioning himself as a judge, much like a deity passing judgment on sinners who haven��t yet sinned.��


    ��If you could judge ��present self�� based on ��future crimes,�� wouldn��t Ashe himself be the most deserving of death?��


    Within the Evil Arts Ranking, Ashe didn��t see people, only a deity and its ythings.


    And unfortunately, ever since his time travel, his role has always been that of a ything, making ��Gospel Ashe�� seem like a worker turned traitor in his eyes.


    Sensing Ashe��s low spirits, Annan changed the subject, ��Look, Nabistin is not far off.��


    Ashe lifted his head and saw buildings flickering with blue arcs of light on the distant horizon. The technologically advanced metropolis gradually came into view.


    ��Is Nabistin just one level?��


    ��Nabistin has three levels.��


    ��Huh?�� Ashe was taken aback, looking up at Nabistin��s clear and pristine sky. ��But����


    ��Ashe, do you know why the technology for constructing cities on the second level developed?�� Annan asked. ��It was because the Yisuo Empress wanted to implement thetest technological advancements in the Imperial Capital.��


    ��However, renovating and reconstructing the existing city was too troublesome. It was simpler to build a new city, but the Yisuo Royal Family did not want to relocate the capital. Thus, an audacious and miraculous n was conceived: construct a new city above the original site of the Imperial Capital. Once the new city was built, they would use Earth spells to sink the old city underground and then lower the new city to the ground level. This way, the transition between the old and new capitals could bepleted seamlessly.��


    ��The technology for constructing second-level cities developed due to this and only became fully mature and usable in thest fifty years. Although the Imperial Capital cannot build a second-level city that blocks the sun, it doesn��t matter. The capital has already been renewed twice, so Nabistin has threeyers: the lower level, the middle level, and the ground level.��


    ��Nabistin has stringent checks for outsiders, but that��s just for the ground city,�� Annan exined. ��The lower city, on the other hand, is a chaotic area without even Red Hats. That is our destination tonight, a gathering ce for countless criminals, dreamers, and ambitious individuals.��


    At this moment, the sky bridge began to merge into the road below. Three paths appeared before Ashe and hispanions: the ground road, the middle tunnel, and the lower tunnel. Under Annan��s direction, they entered the lower tunnel. As they proceeded, the traffic around them increased, including both trucks and hovercars, making them inconspicuous.


    After a long journey through the narrow tunnel, they finally emerged into a spacious scene that left them momentarily dazed.


    Tall buildings reaching dozens of stories high, giant virtual reality advertisements, drones zipping through the air delivering packages, and the congested flow of vehicles entering the city�� if it weren��t for the glowing mushrooms on the ceiling overhead, Ashe and hispanions might have believed they had arrived in some bustling city that never sleeps.


    At the end of the entrance traffic��s toll bridge, a brightly lit banner hung overhead, its words glowing vividly.


    ��Wee to Nabistin��s underworld, the closest ce to heaven-Nabistin��s lower city,�� Ashe read softly.


    After paying the entry fee, the members of Funeral smoothly entered the lower city. Since they were riding motorcycles, no one questioned their full-face helmets.


    ��Did we get in this easily?�� Igor asked incredulously. ��Doesn��t Nabistin care at all?��


    ��On the surface, no. Even if people are wearing hooded cloaks, no one checks,�� Annan exined. ��Though it��s likely intentional. Being the Imperial Capital, Nabistin pools the most resources from the Gospel, naturally attracting the most antisocial criminals�� This ce is the Gospel��srgest trash can.��


    ��I thought Fidr was already the lowest point of the Gospel,�� Ashemented.


    ��Fidr is just backward; here, it��s chaos,�� Annan whispered in Ashe��s ear. ��The Blood Moon must have simr ces to manage unstable elements, right?��


    Indeed, Ashe realized the Blood Moon had ces like this, but they were prisonsbined with War Zones. Unlike the Gospel, which used an entire underground city for this purpose, situated directly below the Imperial Capital��calling it a garbage bin seemed too kind. It was more of a cesspit of the Gospel�� although,e to think of it, thatparison wouldn��t exclude himself.


    ��So,�� Harvey chimed in suddenly, ��is it likely that the Echoers from the Evil Arts Ranking are here too?��


    ��Even if they��re not here now, they��ll eventuallye,�� Annan replied. ��There��s no ce left for them outside.��


    At that moment, amotion erupted among the surrounding traffic. Many people exited their vehicles and looked up. Someone shouted in terror, ��gue Shadow!��


    Ashe and the others nced up and saw a figure standing on the bridge with the vivid banner. It was a person they all recognized��ranked fifth on the Evil Arts Ranking, ��gue Shadow,�� Roger Dior!


    About twenty years old with a in and delicate appearance, Roger was an ordinary spellcaster. Before Doomsday, he primarily trained in Toxic spells; after Doomsday, he shifted to gue spells. By appearances alone, you��d never guess he would go on to create virulent gues resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths, all to elevate his standing within his sect to the legendary level��a crime of absolute inhumanity.


    This future infamous figure stood on the bridge with a vacant expression. He nonchntly pulled out a dagger and sliced open his chest, revealing a ck, beating heart.


    Ashe��s mind raced, recalling Roger��s actions in the Evil Arts Ranking after the appearance of ��Gospel Ashe����


    ��After the confession, Roger deeply realized the futility of his existence. Under Ashe��s watchful gaze, he walked to the bridge, tore out his own heart and crushed it. He then triggered a ritual Miracle he would master in the future, infecting himself with the very savage gue he created. His flesh, bones, and even soul rapidly melted. Like tears of regret, the residue on the ground formed the word ��SINNER������


    By now, Roger had begun to melt into liquid, creating corrosive marks on the road, causing the nearby traffic to hurriedly avoid the area. Once Roger fully dissolved into the air, no one dared toe near, only observing the corrosive marks from a distance.


    ��Sinner����


    ��It looks exactly like the scene from the Evil Arts Ranking����


    ��It��s that man�� it can only be that man!��


    ��He��se to Nabistin!��


    ��The future Cmity Demon Lord, the Doomsday Source of Cmity, the Undying Fiend followed by countless others, Ashe Heath has arrived in Nabistin!��


    ��He even followed the steps from the Future Ranking, making Roger confess andmit suicide!��


    ��Destiny is as interwoven as fabric, as steadfast as a rock! The Gospel was correct; everything is set in stone!��


    Amid the chaotic and frenzied crowd, the members of Funeral, wearing full helmets, silently observed Ashe, who helplessly shrugged.


    ��Obviously,�� the Cult Leader remarked, ��I��ve be the Substitute.��

 Chapter 444: The Revelation of the Gospel

    Chapter 444: The Revtion of the Gospel


    ��Could it be that my substitute was suddenly enlightened by the Gospel Book and ran off to work on its own?��


    In a room at the Farewell Inn, Ashe sat on the bed, examining the spirit of his substitute in the palm of his hand. Due to vigorous development (daily use) and proper nourishment (being supplied with premium materials), the substitute spirit had already advanced to the two-wings stage, gaining an additional small wing. Although it still looked like a human infant, the quality of its pajamas and sleep hat had improved significantly, and it even had a pillow now.


    Ashe had no doubt that the four-wings substitute spirit would carry a bed with it.


    Facing Ashe��s question, the substitute spirit rubbed its eyes, yawned, and then turned its butt towards Ashe.


    ����If Ashe wants you dead in the morning, who dares keep you alive till evening��,�� Igor said, sitting up straight in the chair, flipping through the Gospel Book. ��The underground forum is flooded with discussions about you, people specting about your Spellcasting Sect: prophecy, mental, fate, ritual, necromancy, chaos�� Pfft, some even guess you��re from the justice sect.��


    ��What��s so funny about that? Don��t I look just?�� Ashe responded angrily.


    ��If you represent justice, then I��m loyalty, Banjeet is maturity, Young Lady is purity, Lise is a bunny, and Harvey is grave grass.��


    Hugging Ashe from behind, Lise said, ��Why do I getpared to an animal?��


    Harvey, with a cigarette in his mouth by the window,mented, ��I don��t get it, but it sounds like apliment.��Igor continued, ��ording to the forum��s descriptions, Ashe is already considered a strong presence starting at the Sanctuary level. He follows the Future Ranking to kill Echoers because it��s part of a Miracle Ritual. Every future he realizes boosts his power rapidly. Once he aplishes all the futures, he��ll be the Lord of Disaster, the bane of Revtion�� The logic is sound, the reasoning urate; I��m almost convinced myself.��


    ��Huh!?�� Lise eximed, ��Does that mean Dad is going to sleep with Aunty Qenna and Aunty Nona!?��


    Ashe quickly ruffled Lise��s hair to avoid Annan��s death re. Banjeet poured six cups of warm tea for everyone, sat down, and said, ��It��s the first time I��ve seen a prophecy fulfilled so quickly.��


    ��Too hasty,�� Annan said, touching her amethyst earring, her voice low. ��It��s like a poorly managedpany unting its wealth to reassure its employees and customers.��


    ��Exactly,�� Igor added. ��Even we can see that something��s wrong with the Weaving Festival. Other spellcasters, corporations, and families must be equally unsettled. Unlike us, those big organizations heavily rely on the Gospel to manage human resources, develop technology, and distribute benefits�� They form the basic support for the Gospel. Once the seed of ��the Gospel is unreliable�� is nted in their minds, it will cause a panic simr to a bank run, prompting them to quickly convert Gospel points into tangible benefits.��


    ��So, the Gospel not only needs to use Ashe to clean up this mess, but it also has to clean it up thoroughly, beautifully, andfortably, for everyone to see, ensuring that only Ashe is implicated, while the Gospel remains pure forever.��


    ��For them, Ashe murdering Roger is enough to prove that the Gospel is still functioning normally, equivalent to major positive news.��


    ��Then who exactly impersonated Ashe and killed Roger?�� Harvey asked, fiddling with his lighter but not lighting his cigarette. ��And they did it exactly like what��s on the Evil Arts Ranking����


    ��In this matter, maintaining the credibility of the Gospel benefits someone the most��that��s who the mastermind is,�� Igor said. ��And the credibility of the Gospel is closely tied to the city��s development, social stability, and corporate support. Therefore����


    ��The Yisuo Royal Family,�� Annan interjected. ��I was wondering why they suddenly canceled Ashe��s wanted notice�� Now they might actually fear catching Ashe because they can��t achieve their future goals if he��s taken in.��


    She moved to sit beside Ashe and continued, ��If it��s the Yisuo Royal Family, it��s not surprising they could pull this off. As you know, the more Gospel points you have, the more permissions the Gospel grants. From what I understand, the royal family likely has the highest level of ess to the Gospel. Forget miracles; they can even request a Divine Intervention����


    As Annan spoke, she reached out to touch Ashe��s arm. When Ashe looked at her in confusion, Lise suddenly swooped in and yfully kissed him on the cheek.


    ��Wait, what are you all doing?�� Ashe felt something was off. ��Am I an ice cream cone or a doll to you? Why are you both touching and kissing me? Igor, is this your doing? �� Igor?��


    Ashe looked up to see the Con Artist immediately avoiding his gaze, not even ncing out of the corner of his eyes, his body trembling slightly. When he turned to Banjeet, he saw the young butler suddenly pulling out a notebook and writing furiously, as if he had transformed into a pig that could only type.


    The Cult Leader turned to Harvey and noticed something strange. ��Harvey, why can��t you seem to light your cigarette?��


    The necromancer stared at the lighter in his hand. Every time he sparked a me and brought it close to the catnip cigarette, his thumb instinctively released the button. When the lighter was pointed at the cigarette, his thumb couldn��t press down at all. Ashe had initially thought he was being considerate of Lise and Annan, but this behavior seemed more like a symptom of senility.


    ��Are you all being controlled?�� Ashe grabbed Annan��s delicate shoulders and shook her. Annan looked at him in confusion but quickly regained herposure, holding his hand and saying, ��This is normal; no one is attacking us.��


    ��Normal?��


    ��This is the unique feature of Nabistin,�� Annan exined. ��The Imperial Capital is a Boon of the Gospel, a celestial abode, a Trouble-Free Zone. Although the lower level is just the old city of Nabistin, it��s still embraced by the Imperial Capital, allowing it to enjoy the Gospel��s favor. That��s why so many people are willing to live in the underground city and stay in Nabistin����


    ��So what exactly is this unique feature?��


    ��Don��t be impatient,�� Annan said slowly, as if enjoying Ashe��s anxious expression. ��In simple terms, we are all under the ��Revtion�� of the Gospel. The Gospel doesn��t directly guide us, but it allows us to tap into itsputational resources, giving us the keenest intuition to know exactly what we should be doing at any given moment.��


    ��What we are doing now is the most reasonable action to easily satisfy our surface desires.��


    Annan turned to Harvey. ��Harvey has always wanted to quit smoking but couldn��t, so under the ��Revtion,�� he can��t light his catnip cigarette. Lise wants to get closer to you but is a bit shy, so only within the ��Revtion�� does she dare to kiss you. And Igor is likely using mental willpower to resist the intuitive urges brought by the ��Revtion.����


    ��Wait!�� Ashe eximed in panic, ��Doesn��t this mean you��re all being controlled by the ��Revtion��?!��


    ��No,�� Annan exined, ��We are not controlled by the ��Revtion.�� Instead, a more farsighted, rational, and proactive version of ��us�� is taking over. Everyone has negative traits like hesitation,ziness, and fear. Even if people know the right thing to do, they often don��t do it, can��t do it, or won��t do it. This is true even for spellcasters. The biggest difference between a talented person and an average one often lies in the amount of these negative traits they carry.��


    ��The essence of the Gospel Book is not just to find information but to help you take the ��next step.�� When you don��t know how to move forward, the Gospel can guide you in all aspects of life��be it personal, emotional, spellcasting, work, research�� even in something as dark as murder, the Gospel can provide you with target information.��


    ��But consulting the Gospel requires points, so the vast majority of the popce can��t enjoy such life consultation services. That��s why the ��Revtion�� is so remarkable. Even if you don��t query the Gospel, by tapping into the Gospel��sputational resources and vast database, you can still make the best choices through intuition.��


    ��When I contemte my next step, various action ns naturally spring up in my mind, analyzed for their feasibility and benefits, leading me to act immediately,�� Annan said, winking at Ashe. ��This is why Nabistin is called a Trouble-Free Zone��it��s as if simply following your intuition can guide you to a happy ending.��

 Chapter 445: Where Is the Princess?

    ��Will this ��Revtion�� state persist indefinitely?�� Ashe nced at everyone. ��Also, none of your next steps seem to include work�� So, are we disbanding our Funeral Firm on the spot?��


    ��It��s not about work right now; it��s about daily interactions to strengthen our bonds,�� Annan responded. ��Also, ��Revtion�� isn��t on all the time. In the lower city, it onlysts for five minutes every hour.��


    Just as Annan finished speaking, Harvey finally ��puffed�� his catnip cigarette alight. It was like a signal of liberation. Igor instantly rxed and returned to normal, Banjeet closed his notebook and exited his code-writing mode, and Annan released Ashe��s hand but remained seated beside him.


    Only Lise kept her head buried in his arms, adopting an ostrich-like posture, too shy to face anyone.


    ��How are you feeling?�� Ashe asked.


    ��Honestly, I feel pretty good.�� The necromancer exhaled a smoke ring towards the underground city and said, ��An irresistible craving is suppressed by a higher form of rationality, absolute will reigning over all hormones�� It feels like the easygoing days before prison.��


    ��Indeed,�� Banjeet couldn��t help nodding. ��It��s like a clogged sewer suddenly cleared. Thoughts flow smoothly with perfect rity. The name ��Revtion�� is well deserved. Unlike Vamora��s ��white mist,�� which forces physiological satisfaction through stimnts, ��Revtion�� offers mental fulfillment. If there are five minutes of such bliss every hour, it��s no wonder so many people want to stay in the underground city.��


    ��Sounds pretty good,�� Ashe looked at the Con Artist. ��But why do you look so miserable, Igor? Just act ording to your instincts.��


    Igor red fiercely at the Cult Leader. ��Who do you think caused this?!��Ashe shrugged. ��Could it possibly be me?��


    The Con Artist took a deep breath and turned his head, saying, ��As a well-prepared mental spellcaster, I��ve already made my own choices. I don��t need ��Revtion�� to help me determine what��s best!��


    ��Ashe,�� Annan suddenly asked, ��didn��t you enter Revtion just now?��


    ��I didn��t feel any different,�� Ashe pondered. ��Maybe it��s because I��m already intelligent enough to be on par with Revtion?��


    Harvey instantly choked on his smoke, Igor��s mouth twitched, Banjeet spilled some tea, Annan burst into tears while trying to hold back herughter, and Lise shook withughter on Ashe��s shoulder.


    Seeing this, Ashe got angry. Unable to deal with the others, he decided to bully Lise a bit more and continued to yfully mess with her hair.


    However, no one was surprised that Ashe didn��t experience Revtion. After all, in the Gospel, Ashe is ssified as a ��Disrupter of Fate.�� This means that Ashe isn��t even considered an externalborer; he��s more like a highly threatening invasive species. Naturally, he wouldn��t be entitled to enjoy citizen benefits like Revtion.


    ��Alright,�� Annan stood up and said, ��Whether it��s the Yisuo Royal Family or anyone else, whoever is imitating Ashe��s crimes is insignificant. Our goal remains the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, and the ��Assassinate the Princess�� n must not change due to these minor incidents. Let��s go; my appointment time is near.��


    ��Where are we going?��


    ��To Nabistin, the person most likely to know where the princess resides.��


    Outside the sewer entrance, Ashe watched as Banjeet stuffed three Crow��s Non-Aerial Motorcycles into a suitcase. Unable to hold back, he said to Igor and Harvey, ��Why don��t you two have such great ranking rewards?��


    ��My ranking reward is superb,�� Harvey said. ��The Ghost King Shackles allow me to transform directly into an undead being. This reward is as significant to me as turning into your favorite game character would be to you.��


    Perhaps due to the aftereffects of Revtion, Harvey��s eloquence suddenly surged, leaving Ashe speechless and unable to retort. He turned to Igor. Igor raised an eyebrow and said, ��My ranking reward is a Kingdom Coin that protects my mental will. I gave it to Anfel for����


    ��Sorry,�� Ashe immediately apologized.


    ��What are you apologizing for����


    ��Sorry, I was too arrogant and dared to inquire about your tokens of affection.��


    At this moment, Annan signaled them to enter. The group from the Funeral Firm ventured deeper into the underground city��s sewers. Though they were sewers, they weren��t dirty or foul-smelling. However, under the dim lighting, they could hardly be called clear. Unlike normal sewers, the walking area was in the middle of the waterway, with water on both sides, where armed Sirens watched them vigntly. ??


    Walking through this, Ashe and the others felt like L Fatty voluntarily walking onto the dining table, an inexplicable sense of dread gnawing at them.


    With a Siren leading the way, they reached the end of the sewer, the Mermaid Pce of Nabistin. Like the outside service industry, the pce was divided into various business areasbeled ��People,�� ��Events,�� ��Factions,�� and ��Spellcasting.�� Apart from them, there were also numerous cloaked men, anonymously handling their affairs while exercising.


    Seeing such a formal service facility, everyone couldn��t help but breathe a sigh of relief. However, Annan asked at this moment, ��Aren��t we going to the ��People�� area?��


    ��Please follow me,�� the Siren didn��t answer, merely continued leading them deeper into the Mermaid Pce. When they reached a conference room, she gestured for them to enter.


    The Funeral Firm members exchanged nces, sensing something amiss. However, with Siren guards in the surrounding waters, they had no room to back out.


    Annan pushed open the conference room door. Inside the bright room was a long table, but instead of chairs around it, there were water channels. Ten Sirens were swimming in the channels, and various exercise equipment was ced around. Their clingy, damp gazes unabashedly scanned the Funeral Firm members.


    ��Sirimoro?�� Purple Moth spotted a familiar face immediately. ��What brings you to Nabistin?��


    Sirimoro was the Sea Witch of the Azura Sewers. When Annan initially fabricated fake r��sum��s for Ashe and others, she enlisted Sirimoro��s help, even consuming a favor she earned helping Sirimoro be a Sea Witch��a favor that saved the Funeral Firm thousands of Gospel points each year.


    ��The night you left Azura, I was also recalled to Nabistin,�� Sirimoro shrugged, looking at the Sea Witch seated at the head. ��But I��m not the one in charge here.��


    Annan also nced over and thought that this Sea Witch looked somewhat familiar. ��I made a reservation for Mermaid services as a regr customer. Do regr customers now get to enjoy the personal care of ten Sea Witches?��


    ��Regr customers certainly don��t qualify,�� the Sea Witch at the head said. ��But the presence of Purple Moth, Rust Crow, Ghost King, and Demon Lord warrants the highest level of hospitality from us.��


    ��You foresaw our arrival?��


    ��Water knows everything,�� the Sea Witch extended her hand. ��You also know our rules. Please choose the exercise equipment you prefer.��


    The Sirens have a peculiar hobby: watching people exercise. Especially when conducting business or discussing coborations, if you��re not drenched in sweat, the Sirens feel disrespected. Ashe and the others were aware of this custom beforehand, so they weren��t surprised and each began using an exercise machine.


    The least fit, Igor, chose the elliptical machine. Harvey went for the parallel bars, Banjeet picked the horizontal bar, Ashe and Annan chose bicycles, and Lise opted for jump rope.


    Once they all started exercising, the Sea Witch said, ��Allow me to introduce myself. I am the Speaker of the Ten Sea Witches Council, a member of the Nabistin lower level Decision-making Committee, and the overall head of the Mermaid Pce of Nabistin��


    ��The First Sea Witch, Helephes.��


    The Funeral Firm members were slightly stunned but then underwent a dramatic change in expression, instantly drawing their weapons��


    Click!


    Gun turrets rapidly emerged from the ceilings and walls, their cold steel aiming menacingly at the guests who dared to act out on someone else��s turf.


    However, Ashe and the others had no choice because the person before them was Helephes!


    Ranked second on the Evil Arts Ranking, the ��Chaotic Witch,�� Helephes!


    Although the ranking already indicated that Helephes was a Siren, there were many Sirens in the Gospel, with each city hosting several. The Six Heraldry families also had their fair share. Who would have thought that they would juste to purchase some intelligence and end up running into Helephes? Moreover, Helephes was the leader of the Mermaids!


    It was like going out to buy a pack of cigarettes only to run into an enemy who wants to devour Ashe!


    Information about the names of the Underworld��s organizational leaders isn��t disclosed unless they unveil them themselves. Annan couldn��t gather it on her own!


    If the meeting had taken ce before dusk, Ashe and the others wouldn��t have been so on edge. But with Roger, ranked fifth on the Evil Arts Ranking, having justmitted suicide, they found themselves face to face with Helephes, ranked second. By putting themselves in her shoes, they all felt like they were there to stir up trouble!


    As the atmosphere grew increasingly tense, Helephes raised her hand, and all the gun turrets retracted.


    She said, ��Are you still nning to do business? Life is about movement, and for Sirens, it��s all about fluidity. If you want to negotiate, don��t stop exercising.��


    The Funeral members exchanged nces. Annan gave a slight nod, and they all put away their weapons, continuing their exercise with extreme caution.


    ��Let me take a guess,�� Helephes said, propping her chin on her hand. ��I��m guessing the intelligence you seek is the whereabouts of the next Yisuo Empress, the princess set to be the First Gospel, correct?��


    ��Do you know where she is?�� Annan asked.


    ��Yes, I do,�� Helephes replied.

 Chapter 446: Doomsday Supporters

    Snap!


    The white-haired little girl fell t on the ground, her legs tangled in the jump rope, tears welling up from the pain. Ashe stifled augh as he moved to help Lise to the side and tend to her injuries. ��I��ve never seen anyone mess up a jump rope so badly before. Does it hurt that much?��


    Lise silently nestled in his arms, her body trembling slightly. Ashe nced at the Sea Witches, thinking that while these Sirens weren��t exactly ugly, they didn��t quite match the image of Mermaids. At least Mermaids shouldn��t have serrated teeth and bloodshot pupils. It was natural for kids to be scared��


    As it happened, Ashe didn��t care much for exercise either, so he used the excuse of looking after the child to ck off. The Sea Witches nced at the pair, thinking that although they knew the Demon Lord, Purple Moth, Rust Crow, and Ghost King would be present, they couldn��t tell who was who. After all, everyone at the Funeral wore cloaks and masks, so the Sea Witches assumed the duo might just be the token mascots in the Doomsday crew.


    Annan also shifted her gaze away from Ashe and Lise, looking at Helephes, and shook her head slowly. ��Impossible.��


    ��The Yisuo Princess has always been the Yisuo Royal Family��s biggest secret, even more important than the Empress herself. This is the foundation upon which the Yisuo Dynasty has held the First Gospel for over five hundred years, and it is the Omniscient Weaver��s greatest favoritism.��


    ��Before the Empress transitions, no one outside can know anything about the Yisuo Princess-her appearance, age, size, hobbies, or even residence. If someone could obtain intelligence about the Yisuo Princess, there would undoubtedly be those who would try to ��replicate�� a princess to seize the First Gospel and the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.��


    ��Exactly,�� Helephes nodded. ��Throughout the year 1668 of the Gospel, every change of dynasty originated from the transfer of the First Gospel. Whether it was the flourishing Elven Dynasty, the five-generation Dragonborn Dynasty, or the Emberme Dynasty with countless ruins�� Every time a ruler diverged from the First Gospel, the downfall of their dynasty was inevitable. Conversely, only by aligning with the First Gospel could they hope for the dynasty��s continuation.��


    ��Although historical records are heavily fragmented, the traditions of the Mermaids tell us that past dynasties couldn��t directly ��create�� the First Gospel. Back then, the First Gospel might have been the daughter of a merchant, a noblewoman, the descendant of a spellcaster, or even a disabled beggar or a born ve�� But regardless of her origin, once she became the First Gospel, her will determined the fate of the Gospel.����When the First Gospel descends, all traitors must perish. Dynasties that tried to defy, rebel against, or abandon the First Gospel often fragmented swiftly, drowned in the river of history, unable tost until the next Weaving Festival.��


    ��The Elven Saintess, the Contemporary Dragonborn, the Emberme Session�� All the powerful dynasties left a supreme position for the First Gospel, even directly honoring the First Gospel as their ruler, willing to serve in subordination.��


    ��But even with such concessions, dynasties still did not attain eternity,�� the Sea Witch said. ��More than one First Gospel held dual roles, serving as the supreme of the previous dynasty and bing the Empress of the new dynasty. They would collude with the revolutionary forces, setting the old, crumbling wooden cabin of the dynasty aze, transforming it into the springtime of a new era.��


    ��But now, an eternal dynasty has been born. The Yisuo Dynasty, which hassted nearly eight hundred years, with every Empress being the First Gospel, has already doubled the lifespan of the Elven Dynasty. If it weren��t for the sudden onset of Doomsday, I wouldn��t doubt that the Yisuo Dynasty would continue indefinitely����


    Helephes paused, ��So, Purple Moth, you��re right-the Yisuo Royal Family would never intentionally leak any information about the Princess. Once her characteristics are known, the First Gospel would change hands, leading to a dynasty��s downfall.��


    ��Unless, of course, the Yisuo Royal Family doesn��t want us to know about the Princess,�� Purple Moth immediately realized. ��Could it be the pce leaking information on purpose?��


    ��On the night the ��Art Ranking�� was announced, countless people came to us Mermaids, eager to find out if something had happened to the Princess,�� Helephes smiled. ��Throughout more than seven hundred years of Yisuo Dynasty��s rule over the Gospel, they have resisted invasions from the Virtual Realm, the Abyss Riot, the Meteor Firestorm, and other disasters. Each time, the Yisuo Empress neutralized these crises perfectly with the Gospel.��


    ��So in their view, the primary condition for Doomsday to arrive is that there will no longer be a Yisuo Empress in the future.��


    The Sea Witch swayed in the water and mused, ��When you think about it further, it��s evident that the ident happened to the current Princess, prompting the Gospel to weave such a future. What puzzles me is why, Purple Moth, you only nowe to us with this crucial question.��


    ��Wait.�� Igor, who had been listening intently, suddenly spoke up, ��There��s a problem here��regardless of whether something has happened to the Princess, the First Gospel must eventually be chosen. The Princess��s fate doesn��t really matter, as long as the Yisuo Empress transfers the throne to the First Gospel, allowing her to govern the Kingdom. Wouldn��t this avert Doomsday?��


    Harvey queried, ��Could it be that the Yisuo Empress is unwilling?��


    ��Impossible,�� Igor asserted. ��ording to what you��ve all said, the so-called ��First Gospel�� isn��t a person but a deified entity. The real reason for the dynastic shifts is likely because the First Gospel identifies entrenched interest groups obstructing societal progress, prompting a full reset through a dynastic change to start a new chapter in history.��


    ��The most straightforward evidence is that if the Yisuo Empress had any ��self-interest,�� she wouldn��t relinquish the throne to an outsider, or even to the Princess, without resistance. However, historical records show no anomalies in the fifty-yearly transitions of rulers, and there are no negative rumors about the Empress. If it weren��t for your convincing statements, I would have thought the Yisuo Empress was a fictional religious symbol.��


    ��Rust Crow, the master of devious schemes,�� Helephes looked at Igor with admiration. ��You��re right. Although the ranking list doesn��t mention it, it��s widely believed that the First Gospel��s reward is the highest authority over the Gospel system��even the privilege of listening to the Gospel for free. But the catch is that she must always embody qualities like kindness, naivety, andpassion. Therefore, the First Gospel never covets power for its own sake but always considers the greater good of society.��


    ��The downfall of the Elf and Dragonborn Dynasties both included rumors of the First Gospel facing setbacks in pushing reforms, eventually leading to outright rebellion.��


    ��Exactly,�� Igor affirmed. ��In any other dynasty, entrenched interest groups might pose a problem. But the Yisuo Dynasty has always been under the control of the First Gospel. Even if the throne is handed to an outsider, there shouldn��t be any obstacles.��


    ��In other words, even if the Princess dies, the Gospel will still wee her new Empress. The Doomsday envisioned in the Future Ranking already represents the best possible oue that the next Empress could achieve.��


    The Sea Witch stared nkly at Igor, while Annan gazed intently at the Con Artist. The previously jovial atmosphere in the meeting room suddenly became tense.


    Although Ashe didn��t fully grasp the situation, he keenly sensed the Young Lady��s displeasure. To diffuse the tension, he started doing push-ups between the two��Ashe doing the push-ups, with Lise sitting on his back, yfully acting cute.


    Igor and Annan nced at Ashe, and the atmosphere lightened a bit. The Young Lady spoke, ��Rust Crow, do you want to handle this negotiation?��


    ��I��m just trying to remind you, Young Lady, that your original negotiation n is already outdated,�� Igor exined. ��From the moment the Mermaids knew we wereing, you couldn��t hide your true objective. Instead of beating around the bush, it��s better to be straightforward. Honesty is the most practical negotiating skill.��


    ��I never expected to hear something like that from Rust Crow,�� Helephesughed. ��If even the Demon Lord ims he wants to save the world next, I won��t be surprised. So, you��re really aiming to kill the future First Gospel so that Purple Moth can obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish?��


    As expected, the Mermaids had figured it out!


    Or rather, they knew Annan��s target the moment they learned she hade to Nabistin to buy information. Annan was by no means the first to covet the Divine Sovereign��s Wish. Countless factions before her had tried to seize this greatest reward of the Weaving Festival. Organizations like the Mermaids had long studied the rules of the Weaving Festival thoroughly. Annan was merely thetest in a long line of would-be thieves.


    Now, the strange developments in the Weaving Festival had made Annan the sole seed yer. As intelligence brokers, how could the Mermaids not deduce that Purple Moth was trying to y an underhanded game?


    Thinking back, Helephes��s initial question, ��Are you looking for information on the Princess?�� was a tant test of their intentions!


    Annan extended her hand towards Igor, signaling a transfer of negotiating authority. Igor took over without hesitation and addressed the Sea Witch, ��Exactly. And assassinating the Princess aligns with the future you desire.��


    ��Why would you say that? I have no quarrel with the Yisuo Royal Family.��


    ��But you do have a quarrel with societal stability.�� The Con Artist fixed his gaze on the First Sea Witch. ��Isn��t that right, ��Chaotic Witch�� Helephes?��


    ��Just because I might train in the Chaos Sect in the future, you conclude that I am an anti-social element?�� Helephes suddenly submerged into the pool, then emerged, her wet gaze seemingly piercing into Igor��s eyes. ��Isn��t that a bit ridiculous?��


    Igor��s expression remained unchanged as he continued pedaling on the elliptical trainer. ��You��re not anti-social, but you are antind society. Or, to be more precise, the Sirens are a race that despisesnd society.��


    The faces of the Ten Sea Witches turned pale as if Igor��s words had pped them. As tension mounted again, Helephes raised her hand, ring coldly at the Con Artist. ��Oh?��


    ��Look around,�� Igor gestured to the opulent surroundings. ��Luxurious carpets, bright lighting, exquisite columns, andvish d��cor�� If I didn��t tell you, who would guess this is a sewer?��


    ��And look at you. An intelligence group spread throughout the Gospel, undisputed overlords of the Underworld, hailed as the Court of Shadows��the Mermaids�� If I didn��t say it, who would guess you are just a group of Sirens forced to live in the sewer?��


    ��No matter how much wealth you amass or how much hidden knowledge you possess, you can never im an equal standing.��


    ��So you��re the strongest supporters of Doomsday.�� Igor stated, ��Only in an era of chaos do you have the opportunity to leave these filthy sewers and establish your ideal marsnd onnd.��


    ��Wait a minute,�� Harvey asked curiously. ��If they don��t want to live in the sewers, why don��t they live in the sea orkes?��


    ��Because we are intelligence brokers,�� Helephes said calmly. ��To trade intelligence, we must stay in the heart of the city; for secret transactions, we must stay in its shadows. Initially, it was a matter of necessity, but it eventually became an inescapable convention, making the sewers our only choice.��


    Ashe couldn��t help but ask, ��Can��t you just stop being intelligence brokers and make a living by developingke and ocean resources? Isn��t that an advantage of your species?��


    ��Humanity��s advantage is farming. Does that make farming your ideal profession?�� The Sea Witch sneered. ��Sirens can effectively leverage the Gospel system��s prophecy abilities to generate huge profits by selling intelligence. There��s no reason for us to reject this gift, just as you won��t abandon the Gospel system. No one can defy their environment, especially one designed by the Divine Sovereign.��


    ��Rust Crow, you were right,�� Helephes said, turning to Igor. ��From the day the Art Ranking was announced, we��ve been eagerly awaiting Doomsday.��


    Igor, though already suspecting the Sirens�� malicious intentions from various clues, found their cooperation suspicious. ��Do you desire chaos so much? Aren��t you afraid that instead of rising with the tide, you��ll be swallowed by the Doomsday wave?��


    Helephesughed.


    ��Have you heard of the Ranking of the Unrted?�� she asked.

 Chapter 447: The Princess is Still Here

    Everyone at the Funeral was momentarily stunned. Igor hesitated and said, ��You mean that anonymous ranking list that only the unfortunate can join?��


    ��Seems like you all don��t know.�� Helephes responded with a nod, ��That��s right, Purple Moth only ran a small firm before, so it��s normal not to be aware of this secret.��


    Annan frowned: ��Besides theck of rewards, what other secrets does this ranking list hold?��


    ��Wrong, wrong.�� Helephes waggled her finger, ��Theck of rewards is just a facade�� Don��t just stand there, keep moving.��


    Once thend-dwellers resumed their huffing and puffing, the Sea Witch continued, ��You might think that the individuals on the ��Ranking of the Unrted�� are probably some lonely, forsaken children, right? In reality, over the past century, the ranked individuals on this list are often direct descendants from consortium families like the Kaesrei, Mercury, and Rnd families.��


    She paused, her voice bing a bit somber, ��My niece is also one of the ranked individuals. It��s one of the few rankings that us Sirens can still join.��


    This time, Annan was genuinely surprised: ��So the Gospel Ranking deliberately hides the rewards, and that��s why you all still strive to get on it? Is there actually a significant benefit to being ranked?��


    ��Rather than hiding the rewards, it��s more like they are indescribable.�� Helephes said calmly, ��Moreover, there is indeed no benefit to being ranked. As the rumors go, once the ranked individual reaches adulthood, they suddenly vanish without a trace.��


    ��Nevertheless, while it��s not beneficial for the ranked individuals, it does benefit others.��Harvey said, ��I can smell something bad going on.��


    ��Though the unrted are not needed, they are far from reaching the age of demise when they be adults.�� The Sea Witch exined, ��So when the Gospel takes them, they still have a long fate ahead of them, and the Gospel would transfer their fate to the people they were once closest to.��


    ��I wonder if fatees in ice cream? Or is it mayonnaise?�� Igor frowned, ��Can fate really be transferred just like that?��


    ��Let me put it this way,�� Helephes exined. ��If there��s a child who still has 30 years to live, will learn carpentry, and will earn 20 gold coins over his lifetime, then�� bam, all that fate gets added to yours.��


    ��You gain 30 more years of life, get the chance to learn carpentry, and earn an unexpected 20 gold coins. Just like that.��


    Just like that.


    The Sea Witch��s casual tone sent a chill down the Funeral members�� spines. Ashe found it hard to believe. ��Why would the Gospel create such a ranking list?��


    ��The Gospel��s initial intention must have been good,�� Igor replied calmly. ��The condition for transferring fate is that you must have been the closest person to those unrted individuals�� meaning the Gospel wanted to reward those who cared for society��s disadvantaged.��


    ��But once the consortium families discovered this, they exploited it for other purposes.��


    Annan said coldly, ��Those families just need to find someone on the fringes����


    ��No,�� Helephes cut in immediately. ��You forget that it��s the fate of the unrted being added, so the more prosperous their fate, the stronger the added effect. Those families wouldn��t look for someone on the fringes; instead, they would look for����


    She paused. ��If you observe carefully, you��ll see that in most consortium families, each generation of direct descendants has many siblings. Yet, after theye of age, one or two children never appear again.��


    Everyone was stunned by this revtion. After a while, Igor asked sarcastically, ��Did you be the chief Sea Witch because of your niece��s sacrifice?��


    ��Yes,�� Helephes replied. ��So my daughter is about to be one of the unrted.��


    Igor paused, and the Sea Witch said coldly, ��How could anyone exploit the Gospel��s loophole without paying any price? Not just us, nearly every patriarch of those consortium families must contribute one or even several of their favorite children. This way, the fate of the unrted is heavy enough, and the gains for others are significant enough. Whether intentional or not, the existence of the ��Ranking of the Unrted�� does effectively improve the quality of the descendants in every generation of those families.��


    Although Ashe felt like berating them with a ��How can you do this to your children?��, in the grand narrative of the millennium-long development of these families, such usations seemed too naive. Moreover, Igor was currently engaged in a battle, so he held back from causing any setbacks to the Rust Crow.


    ����How is this ranking list rted to Doomsday?��


    ��Don��t you think the ��Ranking of the Unrted�� stands out too much among all the regr ranking lists?�� Helephes replied. ��On top of that, the Gospel secretly transfers the fate of the unrted to others, almost as if�� it��s an experiment.�� ?


    ��An experiment on Divine Intervention!��


    ��To the Omniscient Weaver, the unrted are like littleb rats. He is researching how to perfectly extract fate from theseb rats, and our benefits are just insignificant byproducts!��


    The Sea Witch��s eyes sparkled. ��Ordinary spellcasters don��t have the ability to steal others�� fate. Don��t even mention stealing; we can barely touch the Fate Sect! But if the Omniscient Weaver uses ranking lists as a form to experiment or develop Divine Interventions, then our opportunity arises!��


    ��Although historical records of the Yisuo Dynasty have be quite obscure, through years of restoration, we��ve discovered that during the chaotic era, the Gospel introduced many ��experimental ranking lists.�� Ordinary spellcasters could use these lists to indirectly invoke Divine Interventions and gain resources for themselves!��


    ��More importantly, ��experimental ranking lists�� have no entry barriers. We, the Sirens, who have been cklisted by regr ranking lists for exploiting Gospel loopholes, can also be the Omniscient Weaver��sb rats!��


    ��This is the opportunity the Sirens need!�� Helephes��s tone became passionate. ��While yound-dwellers are caught off guard by Doomsday, we can hide in the seas andkes, study and utilize the experimental ranking lists to develop rapidly. After Doomsday, we can establish the Mermaid Dynasty and turn the Gospel into a water kingdom!��


    Oh right, the Sirens can hide in the sea to seek refuge!


    The Sea Witch realized she might have said too much and took a sip of her blue-hued sweet wine, smiling. ��My apologies, Rust Crow, if my words were too revealing.��


    ��No worries. I��m actually pleased that the Chaotic Witch has spoken her true thoughts. This way, we genuinely havemon interests,�� Igor said leisurely. ��Honesty is indeed the most effective negotiation skill.��


    ��Well, can you provide information about the Princess now����


    ��Hold on,�� Helephes interrupted. ��This is a transaction; we need to know what you intend to offer.��


    ��Money?�� Annan��s lips curled into a smile. ��I don��t mind the cost. After all, once weplete this job, I won��t need money anymore.��


    ��We don��t need money,�� Helephes responded. ��We n to take ourpensation directly from you-we want to make two prophecies about you.��


    Everyone exchanged nces. Igor then asked, ��State your terms.��


    ��First is the Ghost King,�� Helephes said. ��We want to know how you, as a mortal, wille to master a deity.��


    ��I have no idea,�� Harvey said, somewhat baffled. ��Isn��t that something that happens in the future?��


    Helephes continued, ��Golden Time Flow, fleeting moments, traces of the future are already present now. The future is but a dyed reflection of the present. We don��t need you to answer; we just need you to lie down on the table, and we will extract the intelligence ourselves.��


    Harvey calmly walked over andy down on the long table between the Sirens, looking like a prop for the necromancers. The others watched curiously as the Sirens began their prophecy ritual, though all they could see were bubbles rising as the Sirens submerged themselves in the pool.


    After a short while, the Ten Sea Witches resurfaced.


    ��The prophecy isplete.��


    Harvey sat up and asked, ��Can you tell me what it is?��


    ��Of course, it��s your prophecy,�� Helephes said. ��In simple terms, you will embark on a series of adventures in the Time Continent, ultimately gaining a conceptual Incarnation rted to the Necromancy Sect. This is the key to mastering a deity.��


    ��What is a conceptual Incarnation?�� Harvey asked with curiosity.


    Ashe froze for a moment, realizing he couldn��t stop the answer in time. Helephes responded, ��ording to the prophecy, a conceptual Incarnation should be a special entity that exists between a spirit and a deity.��


    Huh?


    Is there really such an exnation?


    Wait, Ashe suddenly remembered that the essence of a conceptual Incarnation is certain abstract concepts from the Virtual Realm�� but the essence of spirits is also conceptual! The difference lies in that spirits are born of spellcasters themselves, whereas conceptual Incarnations are born of the Virtual Realm!


    ��The reason mortals can��t master deities is not due to the sheer enormity of the deity, but because the nature of the spiritual bodies is different,�� Helephes exined. ��Our souls are like wooden barrels, spirits are like water, but deities are like strong acid��they would corrode the barrel itself.��


    ��A conceptual Incarnation, however, isn��t water nor acid; it won��t harm the barrel and will form a bufferyer when it encounters the acid. Perhaps this analogy is hard to grasp��it��s more akin to taming a beast with a young cub or asking your future father-inw for money while bringing along your girlfriend.��


    Ashe blinked. So the scene in the Family Ranking where Harvey tames a deity effectively means he woos a conceptual Incarnation girlfriend and then milks her father��s resources?


    ��However, you��ve already missed your chance,�� the Sea Witch added.


    ��Huh? Why?��


    ��Because you missed the initial Adventure,�� Helephes said, looking puzzled. ��By now, you should have had your first Adventure in the Virtual Realm, but for some reason, you didn��t, and thus missed out on all subsequent Adventures.��


    Harvey was stunned and instinctively made eye contact with Igor��Death Arena!


    Speaking of missed recent Adventures, it must be that one!


    If it weren��t for the interference of those two female spellcasters, they would have killed the heroic soulmander and obtained the mysterious spoils.


    ��Well, that��s unfortunate.�� Although he said this, Harvey didn��t seem too concerned, as if he had merely seen a te of L Fatty fall to the ground.


    After the necromancer settled back into his seat, Igor asked, ��What��s the second requirement?��


    ��It��s quite simple,�� Helephes said. ��I just need the Demon Lord to answer one question.��


    Ashe gestured for Lise to get off his back, stood up from his push-ups, and said, ��What��s the question?��


    The Sea Witch was stunned. She had thought the shorter, masked person who had been silent all this time was the Demon Lord. She hadn��t expected it to be the one taking care of the children!


    Being gentle and caring with children yet ruthless to the world��to the extent of having Annan paint a Doomsday portrait of him, then turning around to join forces with Annan��s mother and aunts, and finally turning them into necromancers to eternally serve him�� Yes, only such a twisted individual could be the Source of Cmity.


    ��Was Roger Dior��s death rted to you?��


    ��No,�� Ashe replied firmly.


    The Sea Witches exchanged eye contact, theirmunicationplete within the sounds of the flowing water: he wasn��t lying.


    This was expected; if there had been any connection, Helephes wouldn��t dare to meet them.


    ��Nabistin Pce, the central ind in Lake Yn.��


    The Sea Witch answered straightforwardly, ��The Princess resides in the tower on that ind.��


    ��Can you guarantee the uracy of this information?�� Annan asked. ��I believe the information isn��t fake, but its timeliness might already be outdated.��


    ��Well, you might not know this, but over thirty days ago, there was amotion on the surface of Nabistin,�� Helephes said. ��Though the news was quickly sealed off, many noticed it and began asking us if something had happened to the Princess. It was then that we discovered a slight breach in the Miracle barrier of the pce, allowing us to obtain limited intelligence about the Princess. It seems the Yisuo Royal Family intentionally let this information slip to reassure everyone.��


    ��Since then, we��ve been prophesying the Princess��s whereabouts daily��she has remained in the tower without any changes.��


    As the meeting room door closed, the Sea Witches breathed a sigh of relief.


    ��Helephes, do you think they��ll seed?��


    ��I don��t think they��ll seed, nor do I think they��ll fail,�� Helephes said. ��I just find it interesting.��


    ��A Princess blessed by the Gospel, a Demon Lord favored by fate��I��m really curious about what it will look like when they meet, but unfortunately, prophecy cannot reveal it.��


    ��More so than that, I��m surprised that Roger really wasn��t killed by the Demon Lord.��


    ��Wasn��t that clear a long time ago?�� another Sea Witch asked. ��Although prophecy couldn��t reveal it, it seemed obvious that the Yisuo Royal Family was framing him to maintain the Gospel��s credibility.��


    ��It just feels a bit�� overly dramatic,�� Helephes said. ��And rather than preserving the Gospel��s credibility, it��s more like they��re establishing the Demon Lord��s prestige.��


    ��Not just now, actually. I��ve had a faint premonition since the beginning. If the Art Ranking might have been a coincidence, starting from the Family Ranking, the Gospel has consistently been bolstering the Demon Lord��s image. The Family Ranking and the Evil Arts Ranking are essentially the same; thetter is just more aggressive, as if something couldn��t wait.��


    Helephes mused, ��Between the Art Ranking and the Family Ranking, Ashe must have done something that drew the Gospel��s intense focus on him����


    ��ording to our investigation, he was in Senhaeser ying games during that time,�� the Sea Witch said. ��Prophecy suggests he might have been flirting with Qenna and Annan in a Dream.��


    ��I think you��re worrying too much, chief,�� another Sea Witchmented. ��Even if the Yisuo Royal Family intended to replicate and sustain their credibility, we��re not Roger. Even if they sent secret guards, they couldn��t murder the chief in the Mermaid Pce!��


    The next morning, a dried-up Siren was found dead in the fountain at the square.


    Just as the second rank on the Evil Arts Ranking had indicated.

 Chapter 448: The Witchs Golden Fish

    June 10, middle level Nabistin, Belldate Wondend World.


    ��Wow, Ashe, look! From above, Azura looks just like a blooming flower!��


    ��Hey? This foggy clock tower of Vamora, these carvings, this structure, this appearance�� It��s definitely the creation of a necromancer. It might even be personally overseen by that Six Heraldry legendary necromancer!��


    ��I actually had some expectations for your taste, Harvey. That was clearly my mistake.��


    ��Has Hemera be this beautiful? Thest time I was here was thirty years ago����


    ��Young Lady, don��t hold on to me so tightly! Are you afraid of heights?��


    ��Me? How could I be afraid of heights? And this is just an illusion created by an illusion spellcaster. How could I possibly��Ah! Don��t push me out! You jerk!��


    As ��Flying Gospel�� ended, Annan furiously punched Ashe on the shoulder. ��Did you really just scare me earlier!?��


    Ashe couldn��t help butugh. ��Didn��t you used to live hundreds of meters up in the Inverted Skyscraper? You would usually drive a hovercar through the air too. How can you be afraid of heights now?��Annabelle angrily pummeled Ashe��s arm relentlessly. ��That��s different! I knew I was safe in those situations. But this illusion removed the cable car, and we were directly flying over the city. I haven��t specifically trained for flying with virtual wings, so of course, I��d feel a bit uneasy!��


    ��Little Ashe!��


    Just then, Lise came over and pulled Ashe by the hand. ��Let��s go to the next attraction! Our reservation is about toe up!��


    ��Alright, alright����


    Though they wore cloaks to conceal their identities, the Funeral party naturally blended into the crowd. Other travelers were also dressed in diverse styles. The ��Extreme Cutting Carp Overlord Lord�� and ��Red Hat Bunny Girl�� who just passed by were much more eye-catching than they were.


    They even saw someone dressed as ��Ashe Heath��. With so many impersonators around, no one would think Ashe was the real deal even if he didn��t disguise himself.


    Looking for the Mermaid was an event from the night beforest. Yesterday, they had to switch hotels because Helephes drowned from dehydration at the central square. Then, Annan unexpectedly showed a rare kindness and suggested that they rx a bit before ��Assassinate the Princess�� by having a team-building outing to Belldate Wondend World in the middle level Nabistin.


    Yes, even the underground city of Nabistin has entertainment venues, actually more than ordinary cities. After all, the lower and middle levels were once the Imperial Capital, and the original site of this Wondend World was the old imperial pce. Furthermore, many of the transient poption in the underground city are ��underground Na-drifters��. Their emotional needs are extremely high, and they desperately require various forms of entertainment to fill their mental void.


    By the way, Vamora has the fewest entertainment facilities because the physiological desires of the Six Heraldry nsmen are satisfied by white mist, and their spiritual needs are met by Family Dream. Hence, Vamora has always produced more than it consumed, even to the extent of unterally dumping goods to other regions. Qenna��s wealth is not without reason.


    Some might wonder how the underground city can be so peaceful, given that ��underground city�� conjures images of freedom and turmoil. Even before he came, Ashe thought it was an extremely chaotic slum where fresh flesh fed the L Fatty daily.


    The underground city, though it doesn��t have Red Hat, has already established a certain order due to the supervision and intervention of various consortium families. Unregted byw, it is even more prosperous than many surface cities.


    The biggest difference between an underground city and a surface city is that battle spellcasters are the highest-paid T0 profession here. This is because conflicts of interest in the underground city are resolved directly through ��Spellcasting Blood Battles.�� The decision-makingmittee from the Nabistin lower level, mentioned by the Mermaid, is an organization responsible for hosting these ��Spellcasting Blood Battles.��


    As the only bloodypetition in all of Gospel where there are no rules, most battle spellcasters participate in ��Spellcasting Blood Battles�� to gainbat experience. It can even be said that every ranked individual on the current Battle Sect ranking list spent their youth as ��underground Na-drifters.��


    Annan is so familiar with the underground city because she once fought in blood battles here for three months.


    However, the stories of the underground city had nothing to do with Ashe and hispanions. They were simply here to enjoy the amusement park before heading to the ground city to ��Assassinate the Princess.��


    It was quite clear that this team-building suggestion was meant to amodate Lise. Among Lise��s sisters, only the Little Witch had a rtively young mental age. The other sisters well surpassed the mental age of a child, with the eldest, the White Queen, nearing 25. Consequently, their feelings towards Wondend World��


    ��were something they could not resist at all!


    ��Lise�� eagerly dragged Ashe to the entrance of the ��Virtual Realm Thriller.�� The staff had just started admitting guests. Thanks to their reservation in the Gospel Book, they could directly board the exploration ship and even snagged the front seats!


    ��This attraction is very thrilling and exciting. Children need to be closely apanied by a guardian. Little Ashe, hold my hand tight. This ride might ssh water, so please take necessary precautions. Don��t worry, we have our cloaks on. This ride����


    Ashe listened to the long-winded instructions from ��Lise�� and obediently held her small hand. He couldn��t help but wonder if Lise really loved amusement parks this much. Her personality seemed to havepletely changed.


    For starters, Ashe��s designation shifted several times. When they first entered the amusement park, it was ��Dad,�� then it was ��Ash,�� and now it��s ��Little Ashe.�� Ashe thought he might need to discuss with Annan. If Lise called him ��Little she�� next, Annan would have to deal with Lise��s cheeky antics.


    It wasn��t just the names that changed. Lise��s attitude towards him shifted constantly. Sometimes she acted like a little girl, sometimes a teenager, and now she suddenly behaved so maturely, as if she were his guardian.


    The temperament of a little girl truly changes five times in a moment��


    The exploration ship suddenly started moving, passing through a short tunnel and arriving at the dense white mist of the Sea of Knowledge. As Ashe tried to find the boundaries, a dozen or so ferocious de Fish Dragons suddenly darted out from the white mist. Instinctively, Ashe put his fingers in his mouth, ready to draw out the Honey Sword.


    However, the de Fish Dragons merely passed over their exploration ship, sending countless sshes of water around them. Before the passengers could look back, a small ind suddenly appeared ahead. On the ind, Fomp Dragons summoned Foxfire Lamps tounch long-range attacks. As the mes chased after them, the exploration ship��s speed suddenly surged, causing Ashe and the others to tense up instinctively, as if they genuinely feared the fire would scorch their boat.


    Spellcaster projections, Mud Fish Dragons, Swordfish Dragons, and othermon sights of the Sea of Knowledge made their appearances. There were even ssic attractions that Ashe had never seen before, like the ��Great Road,�� ��Sea Waterfall,�� and ��Sky Bubble.��


    Even though they were already two-wing spellcasters who had left the Sea of Knowledge, they were still awestruck, like yers who had left the beginner vige discovering countless hidden secrets upon returning.


    As they sailed on, fleeing from endless knowledge creatures chasing them from behind, the exploration ship suddenly tilted and plunged into the sea, startling everyone. Lise held onto Ashe with both hands tightly.


    They quickly realized they were imitating the ��Whirlpool�� journey. The exploration ship soon exited the ��Whirlpool�� tunnel and returned to the surface.


    Just when the passengers thought the ride was about to end, their seats suddenly extended a pair of silver wings. The environment around them began to rapidly descend, making it look like they were pping virtual wings to soar upwards!


    ��Flying upwards to reach the Time Continent?�� Igor chuckled from behind. ��The designer of this ride has quite the imagination.��


    ��Even a silver spellcaster with a flying spirit couldn��t fly that long,�� Harvey noted. ��Unless they had a pair of virtual wings.��


    ��A silver spellcaster with virtual wings wouldn��t be a silver spellcaster anymore,�� Banjeet remarked.


    ��If two silver spellcasters with fully formed silver wings met in the Virtual Realm, they might meet the conditions,�� Annan suggested. ��Two spellcasters holding hands and pping their virtual wings together�� It sounds like something out of a fairy tale.��


    While the passengers marveled at the creativity of this idea, the pair in the front row, arge one and a small one, were already caught in a storm of waves within their minds!


    Ashe could never have imagined that someone would tantly leak the Secret Toxin of the Golden Fish, and even more audaciously, incorporate it into an amusement ride, as if they were afraid others wouldn��t notice!


    But that��s how strange the world can be. Even for top-tier two-wings spellcasters like Annan and Igor, who had experienced mechanisms, creatures, and environments in the Sea of Knowledge identical to the true Virtual Realm, it was hard to believe this whimsical flight segment could be the real method to locate the Golden Fish.


    Ashe could somewhat understand their skepticism. For silver spellcasters, ��flying�� was an incredibly difficult feat to achieve. With such seemingly impossible goals, it wasn��t just a matter of them not believing-it was more that they refused to believe.


    Wait a minute, following this logic, the method to find the Rainbow Tail should also be somethingpletely unattainable for two-wings spellcasters��


    ��Little Ashe,e closer,�� Lise suddenly called out. ��And then close your eyes.��


    Asheplied, then felt his face being kissed rapidly four times.


    ����Are you that happy?�� Ashe wiped his face and cleared his throat. ��While I��m d you��re happy, let��s not do this outside. It��s a bit embarrassing for me�� and I��d prefer not to, even at home. I��m not used to such affectionate gestures����


    ��No, this is just what I owed you before. I��m just making up for it now,�� Lise replied.


    ��Huh? When did I ever owe you?��


    ��In any case, you just did, Little Ashe,�� Lise looked at him with eyes gleaming mysteriously, and then nced down at the hand mirror showing her other four sisters.


    Little Witch: ��Ahhh, White Queen, give me back my body! I really want to y Virtual Realm Thriller too!��


    White Queen: ��Turns out, the Secret Toxin of the Golden Fish is real.��


    ck Butler: ��Observer and Sword Princess must have discovered the Golden Fish by holding hands and flying through the Sea of Knowledge like this.��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles: ��I��ve never doubted the authenticity of the Secret Toxin of the Golden Fish.��


    Secret Princess: ��Back then, it wasn��t that we didn��t believe in the Golden Fish Secret Toxin; rather, we couldn��t believe that there could be two spellcasters in this world who trust each other so deeply, willing to be each other��s wings and leave the lonely sea together����


    ��But now����


    Lise looked at Ashe and reversed her hand to grasp his. Ashe nced at her, rxed his palm, and let her squeeze as she pleased.


    ��We��ve found the Golden Fish as well.��


    Suddenly, a stream of information flowed into the minds of the witch sisters.


    ��Golden Fish Secret Toxin��


    ��Number of Secret Toxin Infections: 15��


    ��Secret Toxin Strength: 15%��


    ��Current Effects of the Secret Toxin: You can convert silver spellforce into golden spellforce at a ratio of 65:35. (Decreasing the strength to 10% provides significant enhancement; reaching 51% results in negative effects.)��


    The Secret Toxin that the Observer and Sword Princess couldn��t infect with, no matter how many times they tried, was sessfully contracted by the witch in an amusement facility in Wondend World!

 Chapter 449: Farewell

    Belldate Wondend World, Statue Restaurant.


    Here, you order at the counter, so after a quick game of rock-paper-scissors, Ashe and Banjeet ended up going to ce the order. Losing to Igor was one thing, but Harvey had actually used the ��Ghost King Shackles�� to temporarily transform into the most efficient Mech-spirit, cheating his way to a wless victory in a best-of-five game!


    As Ashe recalled everyone��s orders and approached the counter to speak, the staff member ced two trays in front of him. ��L Fatty��s Conquering the Abyss, ck pepper steak, braised beef L Fatty, coconut tart�� drinks are lemon water and bitter orange tea�� here��s one pack of napkins and one pack of wet wipes. Enjoy your meal.��


    While Ashe was still in a daze, Banjeet had already paid and was carrying the trays back. Observing his surroundings, Ashe noticed that the counter area was even quieter than inside the restaurant. When travelers arrived, the staff would promptly deliver their food, reducing the transaction time to within five seconds. The counter area looked like a seamless, silent, and precise assembly line.


    Back at their table, Igor asked, ��After the fireworks show, we should head back, right? Ashe, don��t tell me you have more things you want to do?��


    ��It depends on Lise and the Young Lady. As long as we can get back before 11 PM, I��m good,�� Ashe replied. ��Speaking of which, Igor, do you have any regrets?��


    ��Regret not kicking you off the ��Rapid Spin�� ride earlier?��


    ��Regret not bing Belldate��s son-inw!�� Ashe said while reaching for Harvey��s fries. ��If you married Anfel, this amusement park would be yours! And not just this amusement park, half of Gospel��s entertainment venues would belong to Leia��your future daughter!��


    From the name itself, it��s clear that the owner of this Wondend World is the Belldate Family, led by Yvaren. In fact, the Belldate Family is Gospel��s top entertainment giant, dominating the sector from virtual games to physical entertainment venues. The Belldate Group has expanded its reach to the utmost, making an indomitable mark in the entertainment industry. Even the virtual games Ashe used to y were a small business under Yvaren��s empire.After all, under the influence of the Dominance Sect, the Belldate family has a basic consumer base of millions of people, from children to the elderly, who will spend whatever it takes. This is not just a cash cow but also gives Belldate infinite opportunities to try and fail in the entertainment industry. After hundreds of years, they naturally ousted allpetitors.


    ��No regrets,�� Igor said tly. ��Yvaren and Anfel are much smarter than you. Even now, I can��t say I can fully resist Yvaren��s dominance. Moreover, the strongest dominance Miracle of Belldate is probably the fate-embedded curse in their bloodline�� Thinking about it now, the reason Gospel believes I��ll be a good father in the future is probably because they think I��ll be inversely dominated by Leia.��


    ��In general, we call this kind of bloodline dominance ��love,���� Ashe said, snatching Igor��s popcorn. ��Why don��t you just go along with it? Look at you, you��re not getting any younger. If it weren��t for jail, you��d probably still be a street punk. Now you have the chance to live off a wealthy woman, isn��t that appealing? I don��t even have the chance to live the easy life!��


    ��No thanks.��


    ��Tsk, listen, male Bewitcher, if you can keep your wife happy, you could help us if we fall on hard times. And if we hit it big, do you think we��d forget our cellmate who��s been through thick and thin with us? No way. So, no matter how you look at it, living off a wealthy woman is the most cost-effective choice for you�� Wait, is your struggle every ��Revtion�� time because you��re fighting against the correct option of living off a wealthy woman?��


    ��Not choosing that.��


    ��But what about Leia? Don��t you want a future daughter? Forget Harvey, he has to create a wife from scratch, but you could have a lovely and smart daughter who inherits all your good qualities if you��d just agree. Don��t you����


    ��Aren��t you annoying!��


    Busy with her kids�� meal, Lise looked up and saw that the adults were in a strange mood. Her sisters wouldn��t fight the Little Witch for food, but watching the fireworkster would be another story.


    Banjeet looked surprised, Annan appeared thoughtful, Harvey remained indifferent, and Ashe wore a ��how dare you yell at me�� expression.


    The Con Artist took a deep breath, quickly calming his emotions and changing the subject. ��You��re about to finish all my popcorn. If you want some, can��t you just buy another portion for yourself?��


    ��No way. Getting it for free tastes way better, and it��s not like I won��t pay you back.�� Ashe picked up a fried shrimp and offered it. ��Here, I��m giving you a shrimp in return. Ah~��


    Igor stared at Ashe with wide eyes, his lips tightly shut. Ashe blinked, signaling Igor to open his mouth.


    ��I�� don��t really like���� the Con Artist muttered through tight lips.


    At that moment, Annan reached over and guided Ashe��s hand to her mouth, taking a bite of the shrimp.


    ��If he doesn��t eat it, I will,�� the Purple Moth said with a snicker.


    Igor shot a cold nce at Annan, looking both relieved and annoyed.


    ��Igor, you don��t like shrimp?�� Ashe asked, puzzled. ��I never noticed this back in prison����


    ��Don��t act like you know me so well,�� Igor snapped. ��You don��t even know where I used to sleep at Fidr����


    ��The closet in your room, the couch outside, and the cab in the kitchen. Those are the only ces, right?��


    The Con Artist froze. ��Huh?��


    ��Did you forget? I did the cleaning during the day,�� Ashe exined. ��Although everyone used the same shampoo, for some reason, your scent was always a bit different. Maybe it��s the chemical effect of your Bewitcher Lineage?��


    ��I��ve told you, there are no male Bewitchers; I��m human���� Igor mumbled in a small voice, avoiding eye contact with Ashe and turning back to his food.


    After finishing their meal, they decided to take a park cart to the fireworks za. As soon as they stepped out of the restaurant, a six-seater park cart pulled up in front of them.


    Setting off fireworks underground might sound odd; after all, fireworks are meant to illuminate the night sky, and the underground city is perpetually in darkness. It��s akin to longing for an unattainable crush��the underground will never see daylight, and after the brief burst of fireworks, only a void of unfulfilled desires remains.


    But at the moment when the fireworks bloom, their dazzling colors make everyone forget they are underground.


    The fireworks ignited the sky, as if a meteor shower was pouring down. The Funeral family sat on the grass of the fireworks za. Banjeet even took a coffin out of his suitcase, allowing Alice to apany Harvey. The seven of them formed a small circle, basking in the brilliant disy.


    The fireworks bloomed before their eyes, filling them with awe and searing the moment into their memories.


    ��Lise,�� Ashe said, patting her head, ��are you having fun today?��


    ��Yes!�� Lise nodded vigorously, clearly ecstatic��the Little Witch had snagged thest spot for the fireworks show for them. ��I wish we coulde here every month!��


    Asheughed, pulling her into a hug. ��There��ll be more opportunities, just not underground.��


    There is a Wondend World underground, and there are fireworks shows too. But what made this one so special was their yearning for the light of the outside world.


    Lise felt a bit puzzled as this was the first time Ashe had shown her such affection without any particr reason.


    ��Of course, wherever Dad goes, I��ll follow. Let��s explore other Wondend Worlds!��


    Ashe lowered his gaze, ncing over at Annan. Annan noticed his look and nced at Lise.


    A wave of unspoken fear welled up in the sisters�� hearts.


    But Annan didn��t speak to Lise; instead, she turned to the young butler beside her. ��Banjeet.��


    ��Hmm?�� Banjeet looked up from preparing drinks. ��Miss, are you thirsty?��


    ��No,�� Annan replied. ��I��ve something to ask of you.��


    Banjeet hesitated for a moment, the fireworks illuminating his slightly pale face.


    Unlike Lise, he had an inkling of what was toe, maybe from the moment Annan suggested visiting Wondend World, or when Ashe tried hard to persuade Igor to be a Belldate inw.


    ��Take Lise back to Azura and take good care of her.��

 Chapter 450: The Gospel Worker

    Back at the inn, Annan closed the window and opened the Gospel Book, praying for a Silence Barrier Miracle to prevent eavesdropping.


    After preparing jasmine tea for everyone, Banjeet slowly began, ��Driving the hovercar on the sky highway, it would take me 18 hours to make a round trip from Nabistin to Vamora. As long as I say Lise is Mr. Ashe��s and Miss, your favorite child, Lady Qenna will take good care of her.��


    From his tone, it was clear that he had carefully rehearsed these words countless times on his way back, making them sound reasonable and persuasive.


    Lise, who was looking at her hand mirror, suddenly raised her head, just about to say something when Ashe stuffed a piece of chocte into her mouth and rhythmically massaged her shoulders. Although she wanted to explode with anger, being so pampered by Ashe melted her mood just like the chocte in her mouth.


    The blue-haired butler ced a suitcase on the table, ��The ��Beauty��s Wardrobe�� is our only spatial tool. It holds various weapons, clothes, food, and emergency transportation, capable of handling any sudden situation�� Harvey��s coffin also needs to be stored in it.��


    ��Alice doesn��t necessarily have to sleep in a coffin,�� Harvey suddenly said. ��He can disguise himself as a normal person, even possessing breathing, body temperature, and speaking abilities. If necessary, he can move with us����


    The young butler nced at him, and the necromancer obediently shut his mouth, chewing on an unlit cigarette in a daze.


    ��Though it might sound conceited,�� Banjeet said, ��unless you suddenly ascend to the Sanctuary�� even after you ascend to the Sanctuary, I remain the most powerful sorcerer in the Funeral Firm. Thanks to this ever-youthful body, I have never fallen from my peak.��


    ��I never doubt that,�� Annan gently twirled her earring and smiled. ��Banjeet, you��ve been third on the Two-Wings Ice Spell Ranking for eight consecutive years�� When I ran away from home, if not for your several secret helps, I would have been bullied long ago.��Reminiscing about the past, Banjeet��s lips slightly curved upward. ��No, Miss, even back then, you were full of leadership charm. Wherever you went, you foundpanions willing to help you or even like you, such as Miss Cleos, Miss Sirimoro, and Miss Yvaren�� you were just a bit mischievous sometimes.��


    Ashe and the others were stunned by what they heard-after all, the Gospel Society was a highlywful ce with excellent public security. Causing trouble that necessitated Banjeet��s intervention went beyond mere ��mischief.��


    ��I was a bit reckless when I was young,�� admitted Annan shamelessly. ��But a big part of my daring came from knowing that if I got into trouble, Banjeet, you would definitelye to save me.��


    ��Rather than saying I was young, it would be more urate to say I was like a kindergarten kid,�� Purple Moth said, sitting on the bed with her legs crossed and swaying. Her eyes crinkled into a smile. ��Every day, I caused trouble and then relied on my guardians to clean up the mess.��


    ��Humans, once they be dependent, will always be kids who need an adult to pick them up.��


    Annan lowered her head, her hair covering her face, making it impossible to see her expression. ��But I��m not a child anymore, and I can��t be one.��


    After she finished, Purple Moth turned to the Con Artist, who opened the Gospel Book and said, ��Based on the information from the Mermaid,bined with the intelligence I gathered yesterday, I��ve determined that our best and only chance to enter the pce is during the ��Court Banquet�� held on the day the ��Gospel Ranking�� is announced.��


    ��On that day, all the key figures in the Gospel Society and representatives from consortium families will attend the banquet to await the birth of the new Empress. In such a high-profile event, surveince will surely be extremely strict. However, with so many guests, the ce will be a mix of all sorts of people, which will be our only possible loophole�� Although the n sounds as dangerous as volunteering to be Harvey��s experimental subject, it��s slightly more realistic than breaking into the pce.��


    ��I��ll find a way to ��borrow�� a few guests�� identities for that day,�� Annan said. ��The points the Dn Family has umted over the years in the Gospel are of no further use to us.��


    ��Even if we manage to get into the pce, there��s one critical issue,�� Igor said. ��The banquet is meant to celebrate the announcement of the Gospel Ranking and witness the Empress��s session. This means that from the start to the end of the banquet,sting only a few hours, the Gospel Ranking will be announced, and we must achieve our objective within that timeframe��assassinate the Princess who is to be the next Empress, under heavy Court protection.��


    ��We only have that one chance, and just a few hours.��


    Harveymented, ��It sounds like an outrageous n.��


    ��Exactly,�� the Con Artist spread his hands. ��A n so outrageous that even Harvey finds it unbelievable��there��s really no more fitting description. Not to mention what happens if we fail; even if we seed, will the First Gospel indeed be nullified? Will the Divine Sovereign��s Wish be immediately granted to you, Young Lady? Will you even have the chance to make a wish? You only get one wish��can it really solve all our problems?��


    Annan nced at Igor. ��If it were you, would you give up aftering this far?��


    ����No.��


    ��Even though we grew up in different environments, have different genders, different personalities, and aside from some shared interests, almost nothing inmon, you and I are the same type of person,�� Annan said. ��We��re the kind of people who hang on to life just to one day bet it all on the table.��


    Igor responded, ��I��m not like that anymore.��


    ��If it��s so dangerous, then it��s all the more reason I need to stay,�� Banjeet said anxiously. ��Whether it��s for support orbat, I can definitely help you����


    ��Before we assassinate the Princess, we need to explore theyout of the ground city as temporary workers, even visually sketching the Court��s interior,�� Annan didn��t directly respond to Banjeet but continued, ��This means we��ll be working in the next few days.��


    ��Working again?�� Harvey couldn��t help butin. ��Don��t tell me I��ll be hauling bricks again?��


    ��Don��t worry. Not only will you not be hauling bricks, but you also won��t have any memory of the job,�� Igor said. ��You��ll feel like you just clocked in and then immediately clocked out and got your pay.��


    Ashe wondered, ��Is there really such a thing?��


    ��Did you notice that when you were in Wondend World, staff members would always anticipate your needs and provide service before you even asked?�� Igor said. ��And it��s not just in Wondend World. Anywhere in the underground city, any staff member you encounter can ��anticipate�� your needs and act ordingly.��


    Ashe and the others were momentarily taken aback. They quickly recalled that over the past few days, they really hadn��t had to speak much��whether shopping or doing anything else, hotel staff would appear before they could ask for help. This had left Ashe with little opportunity to practice with his Substitute over the past couple of days.


    They weren��t without curiosity, but it��s reasonable to question poor service, whereas questioning overly attentive service seems odd. So, they let it go��after all, they were merely passing through the underground city and didn��t care about its stories.


    But now, it seemed they were bing a part of one of those stories.


    Igor continued, ��This is because during their work hours, they are always in a state of ��Revtion.����


    Ashe and Lise tilted their heads in confusion. ��Wait, I remember ��Revtion�� can only be maintained for 5 minutes per hour, right? They can��t be only working for 5 minutes every hour, can they?��


    ����Personal Revtion��sts for 5 minutes each hour, but ��Work Revtion�� is different,�� Igor exined. ��The work system in Nabistin is entirely different from elsewhere. Simply put, once you meet the basic conditions for a job, you can sign a work Pact. During work hours, you��ll remain in a state of ��Work Revtion,�� requiring no conscious thought, and you can intuitivelyplete all tasks efficiently along with your colleagues.��


    ��I��ve never experienced Revtion, so I don��t really get it,�� Ashe admitted.


    ��In your games, you have guides, right?�� Igor said. ����Work Revtion�� is like having a constant game guide showing you what to do every single moment. The entire world besposed of very specific tasks, and you don��t need any personal initiative. You just function like a cog in the machine.��


    ��Is it really that easy?��


    ��Not easy at all,�� Igor said seriously. ��Since you have to be fully immersed in your work, ��Work Revtion�� is said to be a very unpleasant experience. It��s like you��re no longer yourself but just a tool tranting the Revtion.��


    Ashe was surprised. ��Then why would anyone ept ��Work Revtion��?��


    ��Because they can delete the memory.��


    ��Huh?��


    ��Didn��t I mention it earlier? If we take on jobs, it��ll feel like we clocked in one second and clocked out the next, with money in hand,�� Igor exined. ��Because ��Work Revtion��pletely dominates our thoughts, ��work experience�� doesn��t exist in Nabistin. The memories from our work hours are meaningless to us, so a brand-new work approach quickly became mainstream in Nabistin����


    ��As long as the working memory is deleted, it feels like workers earned their wages merely by blinking. This system, known as the ��Gospel Worker System,�� enables the prosperity of the underground city��s order of production, entertainment services, and even public safety, rivaling other top-tier cities supported by Royal Families.��


    ��What a genius system. Just this alone makes Nabistin worthy of being the Imperial Capital,�� the Con Artist remarked with what seemed like genuine admiration. ��In Vamora, they use the white mist to deceive citizens�� senses, making them mistake physical pleasure for work enthusiasm; in Meph, they dominate the subconscious to force citizens into working overtime, essentially using a Miracle to erode theirziness.��


    ��Even top-tier cities like Vamora and Meph, which have the highest productivity, can only reduce the citizens�� dislike for work as much as possible. After all, without using drugs or brainwashing, who would willingly subject themselves to working?��


    Ashe nodded repeatedly, resonating deeply with the sentiment, while Lise patted his head affectionately.


    ��But in Nabistin, it��s entirely different; everyone willingly, even eagerly, wants to work. For them, work is just the movement of the clock, and then they get paid��it��s almost like the money is free.��

 Chapter 451: Take Me Away

    ��But isn��t this really bad?��


    Harvey, biting on a catnip cigarette, said, ��If all jobs delete our memories, how are we supposed to gather intelligence in the ground city?��


    ��I can double as a Memory Extractor and recover your deleted memories,�� Igor said. ��But as the Intelligence indicated, these ��Work Revtion�� memories are harmful. Many have already tested this for us��the sorcerers who tried to exploit the ��Work Revtion�� to discover an ��Infinite Revtion�� loophole were numerous, but the oue for both them and their test subjects was always soul annihtion andplete decay.��


    ��Decay?�� Harvey frowned. ��Their souls aged to death?��


    ��More or less. Those working memories act like poison, elerating the soul��s aging process,�� Igor said. ��However, retrieving memories once or twice asionally won��t be a problem, as we��re still young. But����


    Ashe was slightly startled and then looked at the pale-faced Banjeet.


    Don��t be deceived by Banjeet��s appearance as a youthful, charming boy with blue hair. He was actually over sixty now. Bing a sorcerer might enhance the soul��s quality, but it does not extend its lifespan��just as having a stronger body won��t stop aging, only fight off disease.


    ����Not everyone needs to go scouting,�� Banjeet stood up and said. ��I can stay in the underground city and wait for you all. On the day of the action, I will join you to infiltrate the Royal Pce. You only need to show the way, and I can provide the strongest support!��


    ��But we don��t need support,�� Igor said calmly. ��In the Royal Pce, we can only afford one battle at most��that will be against the Tower guards. Any other fights would mean the mission��s failure. Once an rm is triggered, the Royal Pce won��t give us any further chances.����She��s right,�� Annan looked seriously at the butler who had taken care of her for so many years. ��Banjeet, you��re no longer needed here.��


    The blue-haired butler sat down in a daze. His spirits were so low that even the color seemed to drain from his body, turning him gray.


    However, the Purple Moth continued, ��As for Ashe, he��s the core of the assassination n. Igor and Harvey are ranked individuals andpetitors for the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, so I must keep them close. The only ones dispensable to the n are you and Lise.��


    ��Annan���� Ashe couldn��t help but call out.


    ��And,�� Annan paused, ��you mentioned sending Lise to Lady Qenna. This n ispletely infeasible��do you think Qenna wouldn��t dare to use Lise to threaten Ashe, or that Vamora��s white mist wouldn��t corrupt Lise into the Six Heraldry?��


    ��For someone who is neither her nsman nor of interest to her, do you not know how cruel and ruthless Qenna can be? Moreover, both Ashe and I are crucial to the continuation of the Senhaeser Family�� Perhaps just as you hand Lise over, we would see photos of her battered and bruised, and Ashe would end up in Qenna��s dark room the very next day.��


    ��Lady Qenna wouldn��t���� Banjeet said hesitantly, losing confidence in his own words. ��Then maybe Miss Cleos or Miss Yvaren����


    Annan shook her head. ��Yvaren is a domination sorcerer even Igor can��t fully withstand, and Cleos is a staunch supporter of the Yisuo Royal Family��s Red Hat. Lise knows all our ns. Are you hoping for our failure before it even starts?��


    ��The only safe option for Lise, both for her and us, is for you to take care of her. If you��re unwilling to, we might have no choice but to let Lise die.��


    Igor��s eyes shone brightly, Harvey instinctively examined Lise, and Ashe swiftly pulled Lise behind him, shouting, ��Young Lady, Lise and I have a Pact!��


    ��Oh right, Ashe must protect Lise,�� Annan pretended as if she had just remembered. ��Which means we must handle Ashe and Lise together, but Ashe is the core of the assassination�� Banjeet, what do you suggest?��


    Banjeet almost begged, ��Lise and I can stay in the underground city and wait to support����


    ��We never intended toe back once we decided to enter the Royal Pce,�� the Purple Moth adjusted her earring. ��Whether you stay in the underground city or return to Azura doesn��t make much of a difference, except that in thetter case, we��d be more at ease.��


    ��Let��s just consider it a way to put my mind at rest,�� Annan said with a smile. ��Banjeet, allow me to be selfish onest time.��


    It was as if these words were a spell; Banjeet seemed to lose thest bit of his resolve. His gaze fell to the ground as he turned his head slightly, looking to Lise with hopeful eyes.


    Lise was dumbfounded��she had been counting on Banjeet to persuade Annan, but now he was relying on her?


    Lise had previously conferred with her sisters while looking into her hand mirror, trying toe up with legitimate reasons to stay.


    In the end, they concluded: there were none!


    This was certainly not a spur-of-the-moment idea from Annan. She had likely been nning to send Banjeet and Lise away together since the day the Happiness Ranking was released. Truth be told, Annan didn��t care much for Lise; she was primarily concerned about the future of Banjeet, who was like a father or an elder brother to her.


    Banjeet was the biggest obstacle on her path to death.


    Annan knew perfectly well that she was Banjeet��s sole reason for living. If the n failed and everyone perished, Banjeet would be left mentally devastated, possibly to the point of following her through hell and into the Virtual Realm.


    Therefore, Annan had to find a new reason for Banjeet to live.


    If Banjeet lost a daughter, she��d give him another.


    Perhaps even when adopting Lise, this Purple Moth had already foreseen today.


    Excuses like ��Banjeet can��t be a sphemy Gospel worker,�� ��There��s no escape from the Royal Pce,�� and ��Lise isn��t safe in foster care�� were trivial. The reasons to keep Banjeet were a hundred times morepelling than to send him away. At the core, Annan simply wanted Banjeet to leave, so Lise had to go as well.


    In this way, even if Annan were to be gone, Banjeet would find a new purpose in caring for Lise, just as he had done with Annan.


    Unlike Banjeet, however, the reasons for Lise to leave outweighed those for her to stay by a hundredfold. In fact, she never had any good reason to join this dangerous sphemy Gospel n from the start.


    ��Ashe, Annan, Harvey, and Igor must have discussed this among themselves. Even Ashe agreed that Lise couldn��t stay here, and the others would be even more supportive. Lise even suspected that Ashe had talked it over with Annan long ago��thinking back, Ashe had indeed been much kinder to her ever since the n to Assassinate the Princess was formted.


    The tighter Ashe held her now, the more determined he was to make her leave.


    The Witch sisters hadn��t expected that their greatest adversary in staying here would be the very person who valued them the most.


    A prison stronger than the Tower is love.


    Previously, it was Banjeet acting as the protective tower for Annan, and Lise serving as Ashe��s emotional prison. But now, the roles had reversed.


    ��What should we do, what should we do now����


    ��The key is Little Ashe, we must convince him!��


    ��You can��t even break free from his embrace, who can you convince?��


    Just then, everyone��s Gospel Book suddenly sprang open. They were momentarily stunned, and then their faces turned pale��the Weaving Festival had released the sixth ranking list in less than three days!


    The weaving was elerating!


    Amid their shock, Lise suddenly said, ��Dad, take me with you!��


    Before Ashe could even process her words, he was already pulling Lise out of the room. Igor immediately stood up to follow, but a necromancer ced a hand on his shoulder, stopping him.


    ��Let go.��


    ��Igor, you really don��t understand the human heart.��


    ��Oh?�� The Con Artistughed in anger. ��A necromancer lecturing a mental sorcerer on the human heart?��


    Harvey remarked, ��Even Alice knows that a single coffin can hold at most two people. It��s not because the coffin isn��t big enough, but because sometimes, only two people are allowed to face each other.��


    ��Let them resolve it themselves.��

 Chapter 452: Armored Sanctification and the Gospel Ranking

    So fast.


    Pedestrians rushed by on either side, neon lights turned into streaks, and the wind roared as it covered them. Lise leaned on Ashe��s shoulder, like a little girl holding onto her doll.


    The speed was so fast, it felt like falling.


    Lise hadn��t really thought things through; she just realized she had to find an opportunity to spend some time alone with Ashe, so she ordered him to take her away. But when Ashe picked her up, all her thoughts disappeared, and her mood became as fizzy as a newly opened soda��sweet and effervescent, like a child who loves relying on adults, feeling confident even after causing trouble.


    When they stopped, she heard Ashe say, ��Two, please�� oh, here you go, Lise!��


    Lise turned her head and saw that they had run to an ice cream shop. The server had already prepared a in ice cream cone and a milk-vored cone with honeydew, chocte, vani, and pineapple vors for them in advance. She carefully took the super-sized cone and ate only the chocte ice cream ball.


    ��Do you want to walk by yourself?�� Ashe asked as he epted the in cone, ��To be honest, you��re not exactly light����


    ��No, I��ve been walking in Wondend World all day and I��m really tired!��


    ��All right then.��Lise enjoyed the sweetness of the chocte, but soon her mood sank��Ashe was only being so nice to her because he was about to take her home.


    At any other time, if she made such a request, Ashe, even if he wouldn��t refuse, would probably just summon his Substitute to carry her.


    Ashe didn��t walk far, bringing them to a nearby underground river where many locals strolled around without any disguises. These people had perhaps lived here all their lives, rarely seeing the sky. But it didn��t matter, not everyone needed to live in the light.


    Ashe and Lise sat on a bench, facing the underground river while eating their ice cream cones. Although the river in the underground city sounded like it might be a sewer, this underground river was not only odorless but didn��t even have a hint of mustiness. The air was so fresh it felt like a gentle massage for the nose. Though there was no night sky, the bioluminescent fungi on the ceiling provided a worthy substitute. The river gleamed with a phosphorescent glow, and the ripples reflected the gradually quieting underground city, as if everyone��s dreams were flowing within it.


    Lise initially waited for Ashe to speak, but he remained silent and in a daze, making it difficult for her to start a conversation.


    However, their rtionship had long reached the point where they feltfortable just being together, even without speaking. Although Ashe was like that with everyone, Lise felt only this natural when she was with him. So, Lise pulled her legs up and squatted on the bench, looking down at her hand mirror.


    Her elder sisters had been urging her for a while now.


    ck Butler: ��How about acting spoiled? Ashe seems like he��d be easy to sway����


    White Queen: ��He��s simple, but he��s not dumb. Acting spoiled might make him indulge us in minor things, but it definitely won��t influence his critical decisions.��


    ck Butler: ��If the effort is enough, there might be a miracle. Let me try����


    White Queen: ��Not even I would be able to, and acting spoiled is a weak move, like ice cream�� ah, my vani is already melting�� Usually, ice cream can melt his heart, but when faced with danger, his first reaction is to protect the ice cream! The more we act spoiled and weak, the less he is willing to let us stay!��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles: ��Then let��s be more assertive. I��ll grab him by the cor and say, ��If you dare to leave me, I��ll hate you forever.����


    White Queen: ��Isn��t that still acting spoiled!?��


    Deya: ��We can��t conquer Ashe, so why not change tactics? How about we try to convince Banjeet? Banjeet wouldn��t want to see Annan in danger. If we persuade him to go back before thest day, Ashe and Annan will have no choice but to ept it����


    White Queen: ��But won��t that make Little Ashe angry?��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles: ��Yeah, exactly.��


    ck Butler: ��And Annan could also ask us to stay in the underground city, preventing us from taking part in the action.��


    Deya: ��Ugh����


    As her elder sisters continued discussing and eating their ice cream cones, Lise couldn��t help but voice her own confusion: ��Why do we have to join the action at all? It��s so dangerous. Shouldn��t we be figuring out a way to stop Dad from participating instead?��


    The discussion halted abruptly. After a brief silence, Deya responded, ��Come to think of it, Little Witch, we never really told you why we need to join the Weaving Festival or why we need the Divine Sovereign��s Wish.��


    ��Because those stories happened before you were ��born.����


    A long time ago, there were two little babies. The first moment they opened their eyes in the incubator, they saw each other. There was no need for bonding time; they would cry if separated, but holding each other��s hand brought immediate calm. They had identical appearances, their every expression mirroring the other, as close as thest two little monsters of an extinct species.


    There were many other children like them, but most never had the chance to be born. They were already so outstanding that they didn��t need any backups. At the age of three, they memorized each other��s names: Lise Deya and Nikki Nalu.


    On a quiet afternoon, they were ying and chasing each other in the garden, just as they always did. Then a court maid came and told them they would be taken to new rooms. In their confusion, they were separated as pristine and cleanly as a piece of white paper being torn in half.


    They never saw each other again.


    Lise Deya was confined to a tower on an ind in the middle of ake, while Nikki Nalu was imprisoned in the most secret basement of the Royal Pce.


    There were tantrums, resistance, and tears, but the maid who looked after Lise Deya was her loving grandmother. So no matter how much she resisted, Lise Deya eventually listened, ate, and slept. Being naturally kind and obedient, she believed the maid when she said Princess Nina was doing well. She never doubted it, although whenever she stood by the window, she would try to spot Nina in the distant garden.


    Maybe it was the monotonous days that passed quickly, or perhaps it was the power of a Miracle, but Lise Deya soon grew into a beautiful princess. Still, to her, it felt as if her separation from Nina had just happened yesterday.


    It wasn��t until she eavesdropped on the maid��s conversation with the Emperor outside the door, and until she overheard her grandmother��ste-night mutterings about the truth of Armored Sanctification, that the ��Mask�� spirit was born in her heart. She thenpletely bid farewell to her past and became a Virtual Realm sorcerer.


    After meeting the Bronze Dragon on the Time Continent, she didn��t hesitate to ept the Bronze Dragon��s Trial, just for a chance to escape the Tower.


    Lise asked, ��Why was Nina imprisoned in the basement? It sounds so sad�� But Deya, you and the others being locked in the Tower is also pitiful. I was lucky to have met Dad as soon as I was born.��


    Deya exined, ��Because Armored Sanctification has to do with the two ranking lists. One is, of course, the Gospel Ranking, and the other is the one you heard about a few days ago�� the Ranking of the Unrted.��


    ��The Yisuo Royal Family��s Armored Sanctification essentially means gaining the power of a deity through the ranking lists.��


    When she had introduced Armored Sanctification to the Observer Sword Princess, Deya had omitted the most crucial detail. After all, it wasn��t just her secret; it was also a painful truth she found hard to speak of.


    ��Bing number one on the Gospel Ranking grants one the qualification to wield the deity ��Gospel.�� They can even be the Gospel Incarnation. Though they can��t fully harness the power of ��Gospel,�� it��s enough to control human affairs and turn the tides. This is why any dynasty that rebels against the First Gospel ends up in ruin, and any dynasty that the First Gospel supports continues to thrive.��


    ��And to be number one on the Gospel Ranking, besides character, appearance is most important: all past Yisuo Empresses look exactly like us. We didn��t know why before, but after seeing the original Gospel Incarnation on the Time Continent, I realized that this might be a loophole in the Gospel Ranking��those who closely resemble the original Gospel are more likely to be chosen as the First Gospel.��


    ��But even that alone isn��t enough, because a mortal body can��t wield a deity����


    The White Queen suddenly spoke up, ��Let me tell the next part.��


    ��No, it has to be me,�� Deya interjected, ��and it must be me because this is my�� original sin.��


    ��A mortal body cannot wield a deity. The deity constantly corrodes the soul of its incarnation every second. That��s why past First Gospels often had only ten years to live, which led to many dynasties eventually copsing. Forty years is enough for a dynasty to decline from its peak. If we want to establish an eternal kingdom, the First Gospel must hold power for at least fifty years, covering the interval between two Weaving Festivals.��


    ��Then our ancestors came up with a rather ingenious idea.��


    ��Since the lifespan is insufficient, why not find a way to extend it? Not just the lifespan, but every aspect of fate.��


    At this moment, Lise recalled the traits of the Ranking of the Unrted, ��So Nina was imprisoned to ce her on the Ranking of the Unrted and transfer her lifespan and everything else to us?��


    Deya affirmed, ��That��s right.��


    Lise pondered, ��But 1+1 only equals 2. If we can only live for ten years after wielding the deity ��Gospel,�� even adding Nina��s lifespan only gives us twenty years!��

 Chapter 453: You Cant Even Convince Me

    Lise Deya: ��We don��t really understand it either; we can only specte. Perhaps it is because Nina and I were born with�� well, using the Observer��s words, we have an extremely deep Bond. The stronger the Bond, the more empowered the fate transfer bes. If an ordinary person can only receive 100% of an Unrted��s fate, then maybe we can get 1000% of Nina��s.��


    ��Even now, if I close my eyes, I can still recall Nina��s childhood look, covered in mud. Perhaps it is precisely because of our Bond that we were chosen by the Sorceress as the First Gospel and the Unrted.��


    ��This is why we have to escape the Tower-not just to break free from the fate of the First Gospel, but to save Nina! She is probably already at the top of the Ranking of the Unrted, and if we don��t rescue her, she will undoubtedly die as an Unrted!��


    ��But we have no power to resist the Sorceress, nor can we invade the Royal Pce to save Nina. Our original n was to somehow capture the Divine Sovereign��s Wish and then wish to abolish the Ranking of the Unrted. That way, not only can Nina be saved, but there will never again be sisters as sorrowful as us!��


    From birth, Lise Deya and Nikki Nalu were twins immersed in sin and pain. Nina bore all the pain, while Deya bore all the guilt.


    Since the day they were separated, she lived on another girl��s grief.


    From the start, it was destined that on the day Lise Deya became queen, the gem in the crown would be thest drop of Nikki Nalu��s blood.


    So, upon learning the truth, Deya couldn��t bear the torment of her conscience. Crushed by the pressure, in her desperation she summoned the Masked spirit, urgently splitting into the White Queen, ck Butler, Scarlet Dead Apostles and the like to share the pain, like fish struggling to breathe air can only console each other by being close.


    And because of this, although Deya constantly called her grandmother an old witch, she did not resent her grandmother. Because she knew that fifty years ago, her grandmother went through the same ordeal as she did; the only difference being that her grandmother never knew the truth from beginning to end.The true mistake lies within the cruel and twisted session tradition of the Yisuo Royal Family.


    This is why Deya wants to obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish��once the Ranking of the Unrted is abolished, all problems can be resolved. Nina wouldn��t need to sacrifice herself, and the Yisuo Royal Family wouldn��t need to create sinful twins in the future.


    ����Deya and Nina are indeed pitiful,�� Lise said after a moment of silence. ��But the person most likely to obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish now is Aunt Annan. We have no chance.��


    ��Although we can��t abolish the Ranking of the Unrted, we still have a chance to save Nina,�� Deya said, ��because there is still a princess in the Tower within the Royal Pce.��


    ��After our discussion, we believe there are two possibilities: this princess might be an ��alternate�� we don��t know, and the Sorceress might use the deity��s ��Gospel�� power to transfer Nina��s fate to the alternate.��


    ��But I have never heard of another princess apart from Nina and me, so there is another possibility: this princess is Nina.��


    ��Since we disappeared, the Yisuo Royal Family still needs a future emperor. So, the Sorceress might have taken Nina out of the Ranking of the Unrted on the night we left, but the price would be Nina bing the new First Gospel.��


    The Little Witch quickly realized: ��But without a sacrificial offering, Nina can only live for ten years!��


    Deya: ��Exactly. The Sorceress won��t have time to cultivate a new Unrted one, but this also gives us an opportunity��Nina wasn��t originally raised as the First Gospel. The Sorceress has her in the Tower, certainly to make her follow my past trail, thus causing the Gospel Ranking to misjudge her.��


    ��If we can bring her out of the Tower, and then let one of our sisters enter her body to temporarily rece her personality��given the Bond between Nina and me, I��m sure we sisters can freelye and go��then we can definitely help her escape the fate of the First Gospel!��


    ��Although we can��tpletely abolish the Ranking of the Unrted, at least both Nina and I can survive. So, we must follow Ashe and the others into the Royal Pce. We cannot let him assassinate Nina! On the contrary, we have to find a way to save Nina!��


    Lise: ����You all have been through so much hardship����


    Deya: ��It��s my responsibility.��


    White Queen: ��It��s our responsibility. Nina is our sister too.��


    ck Butler: ��Actually, when ites down to it, there��s only one way left for us to stay.��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles: ��Complete honesty.��


    Deya: ��I��ve been thinking about this too��should wee clean to Ashe, tell him that I��m actually Princess Lise Deya, and then ask for his help in saving Nina�� but����


    ck Butler: ��You��re afraid to reveal the secret, even to Ashe. Not because the secret is immensely important, but because you��re scared he will resent you for hiding it.��


    White Queen: ��But we don��t have any other options now. No matter what we try, Little Ashe will never bring us into the Royal Pce. If we don��t tell the truth, we don��t have enough reason for him to risk his life for us. He��ll just throw us out of the pce!��


    Scarlet Dead Apostles: ��Honesty is the best negotiation skill.��


    As the sisters passionately discussed the feasibility of full disclosure, a young but firm voice echoed in their minds: ��No.��


    Lise sat down, took off her glove, and looked at her arm, avoiding all reflective surfaces. She spoke in her mind:


    ��Deya, White Queen, ck Butler, Scarlet Dead Apostles, I sympathize with Nina, and I understand your determination to save her. I also understand the sense of justice in your hearts.��


    ��Princess Lise Deya knows Nikki Nalu, but Lise does not.��


    ��Lise doesn��t want to save anyone, nor does she need strangers to apud for her.��


    ��I just want Dad��s affection and my sisters�� love. There are only a few people I like, and only a few people who like me. Aside from you and Dad, no one else cares about me�� Uncle Harvey doesn��t care about me, Aunt Bukin just tolerates me because of Dad, Aunt Annan treats me as a tool, and Uncle Banjeet only cares about Annan. So, I don��t want to lose any of you.��


    ��I won��t risk you and Dad to save someone I don��t know. Absolutely not.��


    ��Elder sister, if you want to achieve something as great as you n, you should have a younger sister with a great personality.��


    ��But I��m just the Little Witch: immature, timid, easily satisfied, and selfish.��


    ��You won��t convince Dad, and you can��t even convince me.��


    Having poured out her heart, Lise made up her mind and turned to Ashe, who was flipping through the Gospel Book:


    ��Dad, let��s run away. Don��t join the assassination n. Let��s hide together until the Weaving Festival is over, alright?��


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 454: I Am Yisuo Princess

    Being spoiled indicates the possibility of being favored, while being sensible suggests the awareness of being abandoned.


    Therefore, at this moment, Lise was both being spoiled and appearing very sensible. Shepletely ignored the voices of her elder sisters and looked straight at Ashe with wide eyes.


    Her world was very small, so small that losing anyone would leave an enormous void. She was willing to betray everything for anyone, even forgoing principles and justice.


    Ashe looked at her, rummaged through his pockets, but couldn��t find a handkerchief or tissues. He had to use his sleeve to wipe the milk off her face, smiling as he said, ��Have you forgotten? I have a pact with you, and I have a pact with the Young Lady too.��


    ��But Aunt Annan likes you!�� Lise said anxiously. ��She definitely can��t bear to����


    ��She can.�� Ashe replied, ��Perhaps Annan has a fondness for me, maybe she even likes me a bit. But liking isn��t as all-powerful as you imagine. In fairy tales, liking can move mountains, twist fate, and level all obstacles. But in reality, it amounts to nothing. The fleeting joy it brings can hardly match Harvey��s candy.��


    ��Her fondness for me might be that of a friend, maybe like that of a pet, and perhaps a bit as an opposite sex. But it is by no means above her own life. For the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, she is willing to stake her own life. What am Ipared to that?��


    Ashe ruffled Lise��s hair, ��One day you will understand that whether it is affection or resentment, they are merely emotions generated by hormones, phantoms born from life. You can pursue or even indulge in these phantoms, but they cannot fill your life. Only ideals, living, and meaning can help you grow into an outstanding woman.��


    For some reason, hearing Ashe speak to her so earnestly made Lise��s nose twinge, and her vision became watery and blurred. She pouted and said, ��Dad, do you really have the right to say that? You don��t seem to have any ideals yourself.����As a shallow adult, I��m sorry to be a bad role model for you,�� Ashe said while awkwardly scratching his face. ��Of course, even though I very much hope you will grow up to be an outstanding, beautiful woman, I would also be happy if you turn out to be just as ordinary as I am. Sometimes, living a few decades of ordinary life, just like in the stories, is already a great happiness.��


    ��I will definitely grow up to be a super cute beauty!�� Lise sniffled hard. ��But Dad, why are you talking as if you won��t be there to see it? The more you say things like this, the more scared I get! If it��s so dangerous, why not oppose the bad woman Annan? Why go along with her to certain death?��


    ��Besides, Aunt Bukin and Uncle Harvey surely won��t justply. Let��s discuss it with them and rise up against Annan��s tyranny, freedom belongs to us����


    ��They won��t go along with you.��


    Lise was stunned. ��Why?��


    ��Because Annan offered something more valuable than freedom,�� Ashe said with a smile. ��The Divine Sovereign��s Wish.��


    ��But isn��t the Divine Sovereign��s Wish something only one person can obtain?��


    ��Annan proposed another possibility,�� Ashe said. ��The Divine Sovereign��s Wish probably can��t grant everything, so logically, it must have a ��wish capacity.�� As long as the wishes fit within this capacity, any number of wishes can be granted.��


    ��Annan said her wish, while only the Omniscient Weaver can realize it, is not very grand or significant, and is even quite trivial. So if there��s still ��wish capacity�� left, she would be happy to fulfill our wishes.��


    Lise tried hard to find a counterargument. ��But, but that��s just Annan��s word. The Omniscient Weaver might not be so amodating and could only grant Annan��s wish. Then you��ll all be busy for nothing!��


    ��But at least there��s hope, right?�� Ashe smiled. ��Although hopes without results are poison, we�� Igor and Harvey have already lived such lives. How could they resist having a sweet dream?��


    ��Lise, you have to understand, Igor, Harvey, and I are all homeless wanderers. Sometimes I think, isn��t it just moving to a new city? How hard can it be? But when I think about only being able to recall the past from memory and severing ties with over twenty years of life, even though we are cold-hearted, our blood is still warm.��


    ��When Harvey looks outside while smoking, what is he really seeing? When Igor takes a bath, what is he really contemting?��


    Lise asked, ��Dad, do you miss your homnd too?��


    Ashe smiled, pulled Lise into his arms, and asked, ��Do you smell anything?��


    Lise sniffed hard in his embrace. ��The smell of water, clothes, and a bit of shampoo�� Wait, haven��t we been in Wondend World all day? When did you wash your hair, Dad?��


    ��Oh well, being around a bunch of either cute or beautiful people, I have to make an effort with my appearance too. Otherwise, I��d end up at Harvey��s level,�� Ashe shrugged. ��So, is this a familiar scent for you?��


    ��Uh-huh.��


    ��That��s the scent of home.��


    Lise asked nervously, ��So, Dad, do you all want to return to your homnd?��


    ��At least Igor and Harvey don��t,�� Ashe said. ��Some things are best left in memory to be reminisced. Missing home only proves that we haven��t found peace in our lives, and thus, we dig up memories like stray dogs scavenging for bones to stave off hunger. That��s why Igor and Harvey are willing to take risks with Annan��they want the power to grasp happiness.��


    ��But aren��t they already very strong? Aunt Bukin will be Rust Crow, and Uncle Harvey could be a legendary sorcerer whomands deities one day,�� Lise said. ��How much more power do they need to hold onto their happiness?��


    ��That��s a great question. Perhaps they are also hoping the Omniscient Weaver can give them an answer,�� Ashe said, spreading his hands. ��In any case, you can��t count on them.��


    ��And what about you, Dad?�� Lise asked. ��What��s your wish?��


    ��Me?�� Ashe was slightly taken aback. After thinking for a moment, he said, ��My true wish is something even the Omniscient Weaver can��t fulfill, and I wouldn��t dare ask Her to.��


    If he wished to return to his homnd through the Omniscient Weaver, setting aside whether She could actually grant it, it would be terrifying if She did. If the Divine Sovereign turned His gaze to that clear blue, Ashe would be an unpardonable traitor.


    ��As for my secondary wish���� He paused. ��I want to see someone.��


    ��Who?��


    ��Someone very important to me,�� Ashe said, squeezing Lise��s cheeks gently. ��Someone as important as you. But I both want to see her and am afraid to see her.��


    ��Why?�� Lise was a bit jealous at first, but now she was curious. ��Does she not want to see you?��


    ��I don��t know. Let��s assume she does want to see me. It��s just���� Ashe hesitated. ��If I see her in reality, I might have to give up my true wish.��


    ��Why? Do the two wishes conflict?��


    ��Technically, they don��t conflict. But it��s like a stray dog being adopted; it loses the motivation to scavenge for food and can only enjoy the happiness of being a pet. Or like a balloon you bought today; once you hold its string, it can��t freely float into the sky.��


    Lise was only half-understanding. ��So, Dad, is your wish to see that person?��


    ��No,�� Ashe replied. ��First, I haven��t really made up my mind; half-hearted determination won��t do. Second, she has her own life and isn��t ready to meet me. Third, it��s unnecessary. Meeting her is something that will happen eventually; there��s no need to waste a wish on it.��


    ��Then what is your wish, Dad?��


    ��I was hoping to discuss that with you.��


    ��Huh?�� Lise was puzzled and then pondered. ��Dad, since you��re not very popr in the Kingdom of Gospel right now, why not wish for everyone to like you? Or keep it simple and wish for the power of a legendary sorcerer? Wait, the wish capacity required for a legendary sorcerer might be too high. Maybe wish for something that the Omniscient Weaver can easily grant but would significantly benefit you��something with a high cost-performance ratio.��


    While Lise was thinking about what wish to make, Ashe shook his head.


    ��I��m not asking you to think about my wish; I��m asking you what your wish is.��


    ��Huh?�� Lise looked up, bewildered, at Ashe.


    ��In the Underground Hall of the Four Pirs Cult, although Annan tried to scare you, you��re a smart kid. If you didn��t want to join the Funeral Firm, all you had to do was firmly refuse. Annan and Cleos wouldn��t have harmed you just because you��re a ��foreigner.�� They��re not cruel enough to kill a little girl for that reason,�� Ashe said. ��Plus, you connivingly pushed me to plot against Annan that very night. I knew it had to be because of some wish that you ended up joining the Funeral Firm.��


    Lise opened her mouth, but no words came out. She couldn��t refute him.


    The Trial of the Bronze Dragon allowed her to receive various coincidences that helped her get closer to her goal. This effect was still in y��it hadnded her in the hands of the Four Pirs Cult, got her into the Funeral Firm, and eventually brought her to Nabistin. She was now just a step away from her goal.


    ��No matter how much you have to maneuver among adults or how hard you have to struggle alone, what is the wish that drives you to go through all this?�� Ashe asked. ��Can you tell me?��


    ��I���� Lise faltered. ��Do you want to make my wishe true, Dad?��


    ��Depends. If what you want is a fairytale romance with a prince or princess, then I can only get you a nice pillow so you can dream better,�� Ashe shrugged. ��But if your wish is really important to you����


    As he spoke, Ashe��s lips curved up slightly. ��Someone once told me that, even though I have no dreams of my own, I can protect others�� dreams. So let me borrow that line��though I may not have any notable wishes, I can help you fulfill yours.��


    ��But why?��


    Lise grabbed Ashe��s sleeve and shook her head vigorously. ��I don��t understand�� I��m not your family! We have no rtion! We��re just strangers�� I don��t like it�� I don��t want you to be so nice to me�� I don��t want����


    As she spoke, her voice became more and more choked up, increasingly incoherent. The tears welling up in her eyes overflowed, streaming down her cheeks uncontrobly.


    ��Hey, didn��t we agree that after the Weaving Festival we��d be family?�� Ashe smiled. ��But your doubt is understandable. Who in their right mind would give up an opportunity like this? If Igor heard, he��d probably use me of using rhetoric to deceive an innocent little girl.��


    ��That��s not what I meant����


    ��Do you remember the first time we met?�� Ashe said. ��It was in the Underground Hall. You were covered in dirt, being forced to sign a Pact by Annan. Then you looked around and clung to me, calling me something I could hardly handle at my age����


    ��Dad.�� Lise couldn��t help but smile through her tears, and guiltily admitted, ��Actually, back then, I just thought that among everyone around, you�� would be the easiest to fool����


    ��Igor told me that right after,�� Ashe said. ��But I still trusted my own judgment.��


    ��When you clung to my leg, I could see fear, uncertainty, and anxiety in your eyes, as if my leg was the only thread you could hold onto while falling.��


    ��It was just like me back then.��


    Lise rubbed her eyes. ��Like you?��


    ��Yeah, back then, I was just like you��dominated by fear, devoured by anxiety, unable to escape loneliness no matter where I went,�� Ashe nodded. ��Then I was saved by someone.��


    ��Is it the person you want to see?��


    ��Yeah, so I couldn��t just leave you alone.�� Ashe turned to look at the river, the glow of the underground river reflected in his eyes. ��I know others don��t really like you, but don��t worry about them. As long as I like you, the world will like you too.��


    At that moment, Lise wished the streetlights around them were a bit brighter, that the glow of the underground river shone more vividly. That way, she could clearly see the flickering light in Ashe��s eyes and figure out how much of it was affection and how much was fondness.


    ��Wait,�� Lise suddenly sniffled hard, considering a terrible possibility. ��Are you agreeing to stay with Annan just to fulfill my wish?��


    ��No, no, you don��t have to think I��m that noble.�� Asheughed and cried at the same time. ��The main reason is that Annan was never going to let me leave. Otherwise, I would have definitely gone with you and Igor. Since Annan insists on keeping me here, I might as well enjoy it and think about how to take advantage of the situation.��


    ��If you didn��t have any other wish, I would have asked Annan to grant it.��


    Wait, let Ashe make a wish?


    Even though he hadn��t made up his mind yet, what if he had no other wishes and ended up wishing to see that very important person?


    Lise hurriedly wiped her tear-streaked face with Ashe��s sleeve, put on her mirror gloves again, and nced at the reflection.


    Then she looked up and stared at Ashe seriously.


    ��Ashe, I am the Yisuo Princess.��

 Chapter 455: Assassination Ranking

    The underground river quietly flowed, while the city gradually came to life. Since there was no distinction between day and night, people from different time zones filled the city. Some might just be starting their day.


    ��So, you��re the princess who escaped from the Royal Pce, wanting to save your elder sister from the Tower, with the wish to abolish the ��Ranking of the Unrted��?��


    Ashe summarized after listening to Lise��s confession while they sat on a bench by the river.


    ��Yes!�� Lise nodded vigorously. ��My sister doesn��t want to be the First Gospel either. If you take me to see her and let me touch her, then we leave the Tower together, she definitely won��t be the First Gospel. You wouldn��t have to assassinate her at all!��


    ��Hmm���� Ashe stared at Lise, ��You really are a princess����


    ��What��s wrong? Do I not look like one?��


    ��Nothing, it��s just that being called ��Dad�� by a princess gives me a weird sense of aplishment. Can you call me that once?��


    The white-haired little girl opened her mouth, turned her head to the side, and huffed, ��Stupid Ashe!��


    Right now, it wasn��t Lise inside her, but Deya. There��s no way she��d call him that!After discussing with her sisters, Deya decided to reveal most of her secrets but still hid the details about her multiple personalities, her body bing younger, and her original identity as the First Gospel. Exining why her body had shrunk was tooplicated. The Bronze Dragon��s Trial, the identity of the First Gospel, the Armored Sanctification�� Moreover, these details were unrted to the assassination mission. Even if Deya confessed she was the original First Gospel, Ashe and his group would still aim to assassinate the princess.


    Most importantly, Deya didn��t want to be known by Ashe in this form.


    It��s like anonymous chatting. Ashe had always treated her as a little girl. If she suddenly revealed that she was nearly twenty, this sudden exposure filled her with fear and anxiety.


    What if he hated her? What if he thought she was deliberately deceiving him? What if�� That mix of feelings, wrapped in anxiety, rose and fell repeatedly.


    The White Queen pointed out a very crucial detail: the scariest oue wouldn��t be Ashe getting angry, but Ashe acknowledging their existence. If he were to ept that Lise = Deya = White Queen = ck Butler = Scarlet Dead Apostles = Daughter, it would be catastrophic.


    Rtionships, once formed, are like mirrors: they can either turn yellow and dusty, shatter and crack, or remain unchanged.


    To Ashe, his daughter is Lise, and only Lise.


    They didn��t want to be Ashe��s daughters for the rest of their lives.


    So, after the Weaving Festival ends, after the Bronze Dragon��s Trial finishes, and when she returns to her original form, she will muster the courage to recognize him.


    [Hello, I am Lise Deya.]


    The thought of that moment filled Deya with hope, making every cell in her body want to dance with excitement.


    Moreover, this secrecy would weaken their connection to Nina. She hadn��t even mentioned that her urge to save Nina stemmed from an overwhelming sense of guilt, making the rescue seem less�� necessary.


    Or rather, making Ashe mistakenly believe that Nina wasn��t that important to her, thus lowering the odds of him agreeing.


    Because they hadn��t convinced Lise; instead, they had been convinced by Lise.


    Deya didn��t want to give up the chance to save Nina, but she was even more unwilling for Ashe to lose his life in the attempt. Thisplex intertwining of emotions left her with no choice but to present this wed n, waiting for Ashe��s critique.


    Undoubtedly, this was a shameless act, unable to make a decision herself, and praying for someone else to do it for her. In this regard, Deya felt she wasn��t much different from Lise, still a child relying on adults.


    If Ashe found this approach too difficult and insisted on the original n to assassinate Nina himself to ensure Annan��s victory, Deya might feel disappointed or sad, but she would also be d for anything that increased Ashe��s chances of survival.


    ��Well,�� the white-haired little girl asked nervously, ��Ashe, what do you think��?��


    ��No problem.��


    ��Or rather, this is great.�� Ashe smiled. ��To ask me to kill a stranger, a girl living in the Tower, I��d need several sessions with Igor to cope with the guilt. Lise, thank you. You��ve given me a second option.�� ???


    Ashe��s quick agreement made her feel a bit unreal: ��Don��t you think it will be more difficult?��


    ��Well, bringing you along does add some difficulty, but not much. Besides, you might actually help me during the action�� However, you��re indeed too weak with no means of self-defense.��


    Ashe scrutinized ��Lise��: ��Although it might be better than nothing�� I can make you a sorcerer, at least you��ll have an additional spirit to assist you.��


    ��Lise�� was stunned: ��Make me a sorcerer?��


    ��Exactly,�� Ashe said with a grin. ��During my recent Adventure on the Time Continent, I acquired a Miracle that allows me to [transfer one of my spirits to any person]. As you��re not a sorcerer, you might not understand the value of this Miracle����


    Deya certainly understood.


    Or rather, anyone who is a sorcerer or aspires to be one would know the immense power of this Miracle!


    At first nce, ��transferring�� seems like merely relocating a spirit, akin to buying and selling spirits. But this can only be done from oneself to another person. If it were about seizing a spirit from someone else, it would be slightly different.


    Among sorcerers, ��transferring�� holds no significant meaning, but between a sorcerer and an ordinary person, the value is immeasurable. If Ashe decided to auction this opportunity, he could instantly be wealthy, with countless people moring to pay him!


    Ordinary people cannot possess any spirits, as dominating any spirit requires spellforce, which can only be gained by entering the Virtual Realm. For ordinary people, this is akin to the paradoxical requirement of ��three years of work experience for an entry-level job.��


    So no matter if you are a poor vige girl or a rich young master, the first step to bing a sorcerer involves diligently honing your craft day and night, summoning your first spirit from scratch to knock on the doors of the Virtual Realm.


    The true value of the ��transferring�� Miracle lies in this-although only an originally summoned spirit can open the Gate of Truth, and the second-hand spirit gifted by Ashe cannot allow a person to enter the Virtual Realm, the presence of a spirit means anyone could then improve their skills. It��s like answering questions with a guide; as long as one is willing to work hard, they can undoubtedly step into the silver realm!


    And this ��transferring�� Miracle was Ashe��s reward for enduring the ��no toilet paper�� curse.


    Back then, they bought both a blessing and a curse from the Chaotic Shopping Book. The blessing was ��mortal danger sense,�� and the cost was that they had to constantly stare at each other. Meanwhile, Ashe purchased the ��no toilet paper�� curse separately. Although he did not gain any insights about the Fate Sect from that unfortunate period, he did get a constion prize.


    Initially, Ashe had mistaken ��transferring�� for junk. But after consulting the Gospel Book, he realized it had enormous potential.


    However, opportunities should be seized when they arise. Originally, Ashe had nned to save this reward for the future to give to Igor��s daughter Leia, choosing a super powerful spirit for her. But if Lise was going to join him in the Royal Pce, then naturally, Lise needed to be equipped first.


    What did Deya think about this?


    She definitely couldn��t ept it!


    She was already a sorcerer and unable to use spirits in reality because of the Bronze Dragon��s Trial. Even if Ashe gifted her a spirit, it would be useless and might even expose more of her secrets!


    Thus, ��Lise�� quickly shook her head and swiftly changed the topic: ��By the way, although you��ve agreed, Annan will surely insist on having Banjeet leave, right? As a reason for Banjeet��s departure, I would also have to go�� Do you have a way to convince Annan?��


    ��It��s Uncle Banjeet and Sister Annan.�� Ashe gave ��Lise�� a flick on the forehead: ��It��s fine to call me by my name, but show some respect to others.��


    He paused: ��As for the problem, don��t worry, it��s already been solved. Annan won��t be letting Banjeet leave.��


    ��Solved?�� ��Lise�� was puzzled: ��How was it solved?��


    ��The Gospel helped us settle it.��


    ��Lise�� blinked, then realized something and summoned her Gospel Book, flipping to the bookmarked page.


    Due to thetest ranking listing at an inopportune��or perhaps opportune��time, Little Lise had taken the chance to run off with Ashe. They hadn��t yet seen the contents of thetest Future Ranking.


    ��Assassination Ranking��


    ��10th ce: Assassinate Rust Crow. Assassin: Cicero Scott�� will be executed by Ashe Heath.��


    ��7th ce: Assassinate Ghost King. Assassin: Anrock�� will be executed by Ashe Heath.��


    ��5th ce: Assassinate Leia Bukin. Assassin�� will be executed by Ashe Heath.��


    ��3rd ce: Assassinate Ashe Heath. Assassin�� will be executed by Ashe Heath.��


    ��2nd ce: Assassinate the Empress. Assassin: Banjeet Dn.��


    ��Will be executed by Ashe Heath.��


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 456: Is the Spellforce Reserve Sufficient?

    Stars Kingdom, 10 PM, Gxia National Sports Arena.


    Within the arena resembling a town alleyway, a two-story building suddenly copsed. As Sonya retreated, she abruptly noticed time slowing down. The debris suspended in mid-air moved lethargically past her ears, and the announcer��s enthusiastic voice stretched into an electronic echo. The entire world seemed motionless. She immediately realized she had triggered her passive blessing����Mortal Danger Sense!��


    This dual blessing,bining prophecy and the Time Sect, warned her of imminent peril by slowing time!


    ��Mortal Danger Sense�� only activates at the moment before a lethal attack, which means that before she can deploy a Defensive Miracle, the vige girl would be struck down and the Death-Prevention miracle would be triggered, resulting in her defeat!


    But even now, she had no idea where the danger wasing from!


    If her guess was correct, the attack she hadn��t seen but could kill her instantly was likely another contestant��s Gunmanship miracle. At that moment, the lethal bullet had already left the barrel, cutting through the thick air with a supersonic path. Was it aiming for her head, heart, or throat?


    The only thing Sonya could do at this moment seemed to be to alter her trajectory, trying to avoid critical injuries.


    However��


    ��Sword Princess, I specifically selected the Mortal Danger Sense blessing for you.����Huh? Is that some sort of riddle? Or are you referencing something? Can you give me a hint?��


    ��What are you talking about? I mean, this blessing will really help you inbat.��


    ��It��s helpful in the Witch��s battles too����


    ��No, no, no. Just as the Witch excels in creating personality doubles, you actually have a special ability called ��Dark Insight.����


    ��That doesn��t sound like a good thing�� Howe I don��t know about it?��


    ��Because ��Dark Insight�� allows you to preemptively eliminate threats before they fully materialize. But your life has been so fulfillingtely that you��ve only been bullying others, and no one has bullied you. Of course you wouldn��t notice it.��


    ��I don��t bully others. I��m not that kind of girl!��


    ��It��s good that you haven��t had to use that ability, but one can��t win all the time. Everyone gets beaten up once in a while, so I chose this blessing specifically for you. In a Mortal Danger Sense situation, if you find yourself at a loss, you can choose to trust your heart.��


    ��Does it really work?��


    ��I hope it will.��


    Sonya closed her eyes, gripping the sword��s hilt tightly with her right hand. Oddly, despite every cell in her body sounding the rm, her thoughts wandered back to someone not present in the arena, and she then seemed to truly sense the iing malice.


    Miracle: Evil Light sh!


    ng!


    She swung her wooden sword upwards, sending out a killing intent-infused Evil Light sh. There was a sharp sound in the air, and the resulting shockwave demolished the wall behind her, showcasing its immense destructive power!


    While Sonya��s thoughts felt stretched, in reality, it all happened in an instant. The announcer, who had just dered Miss Therave to be in danger, now stood up in astonishment: ��Therave has actually shed through Hubert��s miracle bullet!? What kind of miracle power is this?��


    Many in the audience hadn��t quite grasped what just happened until the announcer mentioned that Sonya had cut through the bullet. Adelle then led the Swordflower students in a cheer!


    ��Sword Princess! Sword Princess!��


    ��Stretch Paw Club is number one!��


    ��She didn��t just slice a bullet; she sliced my heart!��


    ��Sword Princess, I want to be your dog!��


    Amidst the chaotic moring, the Sanctuary sorcerers narrowed their eyes one by one.


    ��A Reflection Miracle simr to the Nunchaku Sect��s One-Arm Domain?��


    ��No, Reflection Miracles require active casting. Hubert timed his strike perfectly. Therave had just been dodging the copsing building, and her body and mind were in a hurried evasive state. She didn��t have any chance to cast a miracle; she should��ve been out of thepetition.�� ?


    ��Pure talent?�� Truth College has indeed encountered a formidable opponent this year.��


    No wonder even the Sanctuary sorcerers were astounded. After all, the contestant who had just taken a shot at the vige girl was a fourth-year student from Truth College, a two-wings Gunmanship sorcerer!


    The Gunmanship Sect has made a remarkable ascent within just a century, bing thergest and most prominent battle sect. This sess is primarily due to its near-dominance in causing massive destruction at the low-level sorcerer realm. A well-timed shot can almost instantly incapacitate any low-level sorcerer, while only Sanctuary sorcerers can reliably counteract assassination gunshots due to their Sanctuary��s absolute protection.


    Except for a few rare cases, most two-wings Defensive Miracles cannot withstand the prating force of a two-wings Gunmanship miracle. This means that if a gun sorcerernds a hit, victory is almost certain. Consequently, low-level sorcerers have only two strategies against gun sorcerers: dodge or counterattack!


    The majority of sorcerers can only choose to dodge since counterattacks are feasible only for certain sects that have developed corresponding Reflection Miracles. For instance, the Nunchaku Sect��s One-Arm Domain allows sorcerers to instantly deflect all bullets entering their attack range. The pinnacle of counterattack mastery is to send the bullet back to the gun sorcerer from whence it came.


    Throughout the entire match so far, Sonya had been using theplex terrain of the town to dodge the gunfire. This, however, made it difficult for her to approach the gunman. Facing a seemingly unavoidable deadly predicament, she suddenly executed a counterattack, which, to the knowledgeable audience, was an absolute spectacle.


    Even more terrifying was that she didn��t rely on a miracle to counterattack, but rather seemed to rely on a sh of Insight�� ��Rhythm Sword Saint�� Nidhogg couldn��t help but ask Trozan next to him, ��Did you teach her?��


    ��Not exactly,�� Trozan replied casually, ��Sparring with me often might naturally lead to such reflexes.��


    However, even Trozan was deeply puzzled internally.


    Forget about two-wings golden level; even she couldn��t sh a bullet in a natural state!


    Dodging is one thing since Sanctuary sorcerers can perceive the bullet��s trajectory. However, counterattacking operates on an entirely different level. Facing a miracle bullet, simply cing the sword in its path would result in the miracle bullet shattering the sword de effortlessly. Even if the sword was reinforced, the shattered bullet fragments could easily harm the sorcerer. Thus, true counterattacking demands that the sorcerer must strike the bullet precisely and with full force, requiring reflexes in the supersonic realm��in short, achievable only through a miracle.


    Therefore, to ordinary people and low-level sorcerers alike, it seemed like Sonya was performing a miracle.


    However, Sanctuary sorcerers were all pondering why Sonya hadn��t used a miracle. Could this be a true miracle?


    The external astonishment and des didn��t affect the contestants�� mindsets. After sessfully executing the counterattack, Sonya continued to move between the buildings, never exposing herself in the open.


    Unlike her, a so-called ��newbie,�� the other contestants had at least three years of virtual realm exploration experience. Some had honed their skills multiple times in the Abyss. Their spiritpositions and miracle functionalities far exceeded hers. For instance, Sonya currently only mastered Offensive Miracles, whereas the other contestants had bnced their capabilities across offensive, defensive, mobility, healing, and reconnaissance miracles��they had to wander the virtual realm alone, unlike Sonya, who treated it like returning home.


    But this also meant that in a prolonged battle, the odds would swing in favor of the other sorcerers. When only three contestants remained, Sonya found it nearly impossible to approach the gun sorcerer Hubert, who could pinpoint her location, indicating he possessed a Reconnaissance Miracle. Even though she kept running, she still narrowly avoided his ambush sniper shots.


    Sonya��s counterattack was awe-inspiring but didn��t improve her predicament.


    In fact, before the contestant list was announced, most people didn��t have high expectations for Sonya. Adelle even prepared a ��Swordflower��s First Loss�� PR n in advance. If Sonya lost, Adelle would lead the Stretch Paw Club to flood the school forum with posts emphasizing Sonya��s status as a freshman, her brave participation, her glorious three-match winning streak, and the opportunity she still had in the Revival Match.


    Even if she lost, Sonya would only garner encouragement and sympathy, possibly increasing her fan base!


    Honestly, as a first-year student, Sonya��s achievements had already broken Swordflower��s College League records. In the future, she could proudly im, ��Swordflower College should be proud of me,�� not to mention that she still had three more potential College League participations, marking her as someone with great potential.


    But she didn��t want to lose!


    Because her supportive ssmates were watching her, and the pesky Little Trumpets who disliked her were watching too;


    Because Gxia was watching her, and the entire Stars realm was watching her.


    Because her mother was watching her, and those Little Trumpets who used to look down on her and her mother were watching her;


    Because she wanted the Observer to watch her;


    Most importantly, because she didn��t want to lose!


    Suffering has no inherent meaning; otherwise, every homeless person would be considered a great person. Failure does not breed sess��it often leads to depression. Sonya didn��t want to hear others try tofort her; she only wanted praise, envy, and love!


    No one can win forever? But I have been losing since the day I was born. I��ve endured enough suffering and contempt. Having finally spent all my luck meeting you, from now on, I want to win for the rest of my life��whether it��s inpetitions, battles, life, study, career, or love!


    Suddenly, the distant sound of gunfire roared, and the host��s voice pierced through the arena: ��Contestant Nob is leveling all the buildings in a straight line, using a Movement Miracle to charge directly at contestant Hubert�� Hubert reacts quickly, trying to create distance with a Movement Miracle but it��s ineffective, Nob catches up, and a Defensive Miracle is useless! Nob��s sword strike triggers ��Death-Prevention����Hubert is out!��


    The audience erupted in chaos, and the expressions on the faces of Truth College��s supporters were grim��Hubert was considered one of their top three contestants this year, aiming for a top-three finish, but now he had lost in the Top Eight Tournament!


    Though the Revival Match offers another chance, the rules mean that Hubert will have to battle another contestant from Truth College. Ultimately, Truth College will struggle to secure a top-three position!


    With the gun sorcerer eliminated, Sonya no longer needed to hide. She walked to the open ground in the center of the arena. This area hadn��t been open ground initially, but the buildings had been leveled in the ensuing battles.


    A towering sorcerer, standing over two meters tall, emerged from the ruins. He held a greatsword as tall as himself, wearing a modest yet imposing ckbat attire. This was Nob, a fourth-year student at Berserk College and the favorite to win this year��s tournament.


    Although both were swordcerers, Nob and Sonya practiced entirely different spellcasting styles. Nob followed the greatsword path, which favored brute strength over skillful precision. Greatswordcerers were a distinctive sect of Berserk College. Compared to spellcasting tournaments, greatswordcerers were highly advantageous in the Abyss or Virtual Realm. After all, greatswords were designed to yrge monsters rather than humanoid creatures.


    However, this didn��t mean greatswordcerers were ill-suited for spellcasting tournaments. On the contrary, their win rate in thesepetitions was among the highest.


    The number of greatswordcerers was rtively low primarily because most people had to first train in the Physical Sect to build the strength needed to wield a greatsword. While learning spellcasting feels like a challenge to human nature, undergoing Physical Sect training is downright grueling. With thefort and ease of life under the Stars, normal people simply cannot endure the rigorous demands of the Physical Sect.


    Thus, every greatswordcerer��s physical conditioning far surpassed their peers, and this strength could be transformed into devastating destructive power��


    Boom!


    Suddenly, Nob performed a sweeping sh, sending a grey-white sword light slicing through the air towards Sonya! The sword light was thick, sharp, and wide-ranging, beyond the resistance of ordinary Miracles. The vige girl had no choice but to unleash her strongest single-target Miracle��


    Blood Moon, Shattered Lake!


    The red sword light and the grey sword light shed, grinding against each other and neutralizing one another. The impact generated a massive shockwave, sending debris flying and clearing the battleground for the twopetitors!


    ��Sorry, the greatsword isn��t adept at closebat, so I��ll just use the ��Wind of Ash Erosion�� to crush you,�� Nob said, his steady voiceced with a hint of apology. ��Please don��t me me for being ruthless.��


    Indeed, greatswordcerers weren��t suited for closebat. Their long reach due to their arm length plus the sword��s length made mid-range their optimal attack distance. Once engaged up close by a closebat sorcerer, they were little more than punching bags.


    Thus, in spellcasting tournaments, the way greatswordcerers fought was the most straightforward��using sword energy directly!


    They would use thicker, longer, and harder sword energy to forcibly crush all enemies!


    Though it might seem simplistic, it was incredibly effective. The energy of the ��sword energy�� spirit originated from the sorcerer��s own strength. This meant that the greater the sorcerer��s strength, the stronger the sword energy, perfectly aligning with the qualifications for a greatswordcerer!


    At the beginning of the Top Eight��s Meteor Trial, a sorcerer��s Defensive Miracle was brutally shattered by Nob��s sword energy. His power was undeniable!


    By rights, Sonya��s best strategy was to enter Nob��s closebat range, forcing him to defend where he was less effective. However, she nodded and said, ��No problem, I want to finish quickly too�� I have something to do tonight.��


    ��Good!�� Nob roared and swung the Greatsword once more!


    Blood and grey shed fiercely on the battlefield, sending waves of energy rippling outward!


    ��Daring topete in Miracles against Nob��Therave is being overly impulsive,��mented Arsenault, the host. He couldn��t help but offer his perspective, ��ording to the yer profiles, Nob entered the Time Continent back in his third year, meaning he has spent a year exploring it. Despite multiple deaths along the way, his Golden Wings must be halfway topletion.��


    ��Nob��s ��Wind of Ash Erosion�� is a mid-tier Radiant Golden Miracle, known for its high damage andrge area of effect, but it doesn��t consume much spellforce. Since the damage of ��Wind of Ash Erosion�� scales with the sorcerer��s strength, it��s essentially Nob��s go-to Miracle, allowing him to use it repeatedly.��


    ��This extravagant Miracle duel has be a contest of spellforce. The one with more spellforce reserves will emerge victorious. However, Therave has been in the Time Continent for less than a month, and although her new Miracle, ��Blood Moon, Shattered Lake,�� isn��t yet listed in the Star Miracles Directory, it clearly consumes a significant amount of spellforce����


    ��Does she really have enough spellforce reserves to sustain this battle?��

 Chapter 457: Fitting into the Role

    Virtual Realm, Time Continent.


    As soon as Sonya opened her eyes, she eagerly turned her head and said, ��Tonight, I����


    She immediately closed her mouth.


    She saw the Observer sitting in the back seat, the Witch straddling him, and the two of them almost hugging each other.


    ��Huh? Why is it like this again tonight? Observer, the White Queen asked me to check if you��re doing this on purpose.��


    ��It��s definitely a teleportation error. It might be because we all squeezed through the Gate of Truth together. If you don��t believe me, ask the Sword Princess. Nothing like this ever happened when I was in the Sea of Knowledge with her!��


    The Witch turned to look at Sonya. ��Really, Sword Princess?��


    Sonya said, ��Witch, can you get off the Observer first?��


    ��Oh, oh!��These days, when they enter the Virtual Realm, situations like this asionally ur: the Observer��s and the Witch��s bodies ovep. Sometimes the Witch clings to him, sometimes she��s lying on hisp, in various odd positions.


    Actually, Sonya could understand these urrences. After all, teleporting three sorcerers together could result in minor errors, and two people ovepping isn��t really considered a failure.


    But the problem was, why was she always the one watching from the side?


    Shouldn��t the errors be more equitable?


    ��Sword Princess, what were you going to say?�� Ashe moved back to the front seat and asked, ��I remember you have a Meteor Trial tonight, right?��


    ��Yeah,�� Sonya nodded, suddenly feeling a bit disinterested. ��I won the Top Eight Tournament. The final contestant was supposed to face me in a trial of miracles, but they only had golden half-winged level spellforce.��


    Deya chuckled, ��So, Sword Princess, weren��t you just bullying them?��


    Due to the absorption speed bonuses from the Sports car and the Alchemy Throne, Ashe and the others were close to attaining full-winged Golden Wings. Plus, they had the Golden Fish��s Secret Toxin, which converted silver spellforce into golden spellforce, making their mana bar significantly longer than that of ordinary sorcerers.


    ��Witch, how did you suddenly obtain the Golden Fish��s Secret Toxin?�� Ashe flipped through the operator directory. ��Did you get it today?��


    ��Yes!�� Deya nodded enthusiastically. ��A lot happened today, and I suddenly believe you really saw the Golden Fish. By the way, Sword Princess, can you teach me how to flirt with men?��


    The Stretch Paw Club President blinked, meeting Deya��s sincere gaze with curiosity. ��Can��t you ask your sisters?��


    ��They just think differently from me, but we have the same amount of knowledge. What I know, they know as well, and vice versa,�� Deya exined. ��Little ck told me that, Sword Princess, you seem like you really know how to y with men��s hearts. She said I should learn from you!��


    Sonya nced at Ashe, who was driving, and shook her head. ��No, I��ve never been in a rtionship.��


    Ashe looked up at the sky where the Reverse Golden Rain fell. ��Tonight��s golden rain is even more dazzling than before, just like a certain someone.��


    Sonya continued, ��But I can teach you somemunication tips that might make it easier for the other person to like you. What kind of person are they?��


    ��(>��<) Hmm~�� Deya pondered. ��Kind, handsome, responsible, funny, cheerful, gentle, considerate, adored by everyone����


    ��I get it. Basically, someone you��re head over heels for,�� Sonya rolled her eyes and pulled Deya aside to share some secrets.


    Initially, she wanted to brag about her Meteor Trial in the Top Eight Tournament tonight. But then she thought, she hadn��t won first ce, and although the trial was the toughest she��d ever had, they couldn��t see it, and words alone wouldn��t convey how spectacrly she performed.


    Moreover, the Observer wouldn��t praise her anyway��


    Noticing the Sword Princess��s gaze, Ashe added, ��A few days ago, I had a small cake dipped in cream and honey. It was so sweet it melted my heart and made me think of someone.��


    Eat, eat, eat! All he thinks about is food!


    After sharing a few flirting tips, Sonya looked at Deya��s slightly upturned hair and couldn��t help butugh. ��Are you very happy today?��


    ��Yes!��


    ��Did something good happen?��


    Deya blinked and shook her head. ��Not exactly a good thing.��


    ��So, what��s making you happy is the person you like?�� Sonya smiled and asked, ��The person you get to kiss and hug every day?��


    ��Hehe (�R���Q).�� Deya blushed a little and hugged Sonya coquettishly. ��The person I kiss and hug every day is you, Sword Princess.��


    The Witch was indeed very happy. Due to the Assassination Ranking, Annan didn��t dare let Banjeet leave alone. After all, there were precedents��Roger and Helephes had both been targeted by the Yisuo Royal Family��s assassins to fulfill the futures seen in the Weaving Festival. If Banjeet dared to act solo, Annan feared he would end up in the obituaries.


    Since Banjeet couldn��t leave, there was no reason for Lise to go either. In the end, apart from Ashe, no one really cared about her fate. Ashe suggested Lise stay, and although Igor seemed to have some concerns, Annan agreed immediately.


    The rest was straightforward: on the day of the action, she and Ashe would go to the Tower to rescue Nina. When the Weaving Festival concluded, she��d undergo the Bronze Dragon��s Trial to return to her true form. Then�� she��d be with Ashe��


    Sonya watched Deya, whose blissful smile seemed to radiate from every hair strand, and couldn��t help but feel her own spirits lift.


    Ashe, trying to make conversation, said, ��I once saw a river filled with starlight, like the night sky flowing through the water. It was both brilliant and dreamy, as if everyone��s dreams were drifting there.��


    Is the Observer trying to join our conversation? Sonya nced at him curiously. However, remembering the scene she had walked in on earlier, she wasn��t keen on engaging him much.


    A momentter, the sports car stopped at the entrance to a mine cave. Ashe said, ��There��s a group of de Fish Dragons inside, and possibly an overlord creature, the Raging shing Dragon. We need to lure them out first����


    ��Let me!�� Deya eagerly jumped out of the sports car, impatient to share her joy with the de Fish Dragons, running into the rain curtain like an excited child.


    As soon as the Witch left, Sonya��s expression turned sour, and she got out of the car slowly without so much as a nce at Ashe. Perplexed, Ashe asked, ��Why the sudden mood change?��


    ��None of your business.��


    ��I did what you asked; you can��t take it out on me.��


    ��What request?�� The Stretch Paw Club President shot him a look.


    ��Praising you!�� Ashe said. ��As soon as I heard you won the Top Eight Tournament, I praised you immediately.��


    ��No, you didn��t!��


    ��Yes, I did. It��s just that with the Witch around, I had to be more indirect.��


    ��Indirect?��


    ��Yes, exactly.�� Ashe nodded repeatedly. ��The dazzling Reverse Golden Rain, the cake dipped in cream and honey, the river filled with starlight����


    ��I used the most beautiful things in the world to describe you. You have to catch on and understand thepliment.��

 Chapter 458: The Witchs Skills

    Could there be a Kingdom where the Four Pirs Cult sessfully subverts the order and dominates the region? In that ce, the Cult Leader holds both religious and secr power; in that ce, those who do not believe in the Four Pirs Cult are imprisoned; in that ce, everyone is bombarded day and night by incessant spam messages from the Four Pirs Cult without any way to opt out��


    Such a ce indeed exists.


    Ashe flipped through the Sorcerer��s Handbook in his hands. They had bumped into and killed a sorcerer projection while on the road. The Witch nced through the handbook and discovered it contained information about the Four Pirs Cult that everyone was interested in, so she handed it to him to look over��mainly because the White Queen and her sisters did not allow Deya to read such intelligence about the Dark God.


    Ashe, on the other hand, had no such reservations. If the Four Pirs Cult could indeed corrupt someone, then the Cult Leader��s originals would bepletely rotten, devoid of any ��human�� elements, not to mention the Eternal Presence curse still hung over him. Worrying about being corrupted by the Four Pirs Cult to Ashe was like L Fatty worrying about bing food��there was no way for them to control such oues.


    The handbook��s owner was a Temple sorcerer affiliated with a religious sect, adept in fire spell and gunmanship, who had earned the title ��st Knight��. Let��s call him st for now.


    The handbook was a rather conventional record ofbat experiences, detailing nine significant battles from birth to death. It might seem few in number, but that was because st omitted all battles he could win easily. Therefore, these nine battles were either evenly matched or heavily imbnced, with nearly every battle fought to the brink of death with all his efforts.


    In these nine battles, st fought against the Four Pirs Cult in five of them. Through st��s impressions of his enemies, Ashe and hispanions could almost see the rapid rise of the Four Pirs Cult: at first, they were merely ��insignificant heretics,��ter, ��a bit troublesome thieves,�� then petitors to the Temple,�� and finally, they became ��formidable adversaries�� and ��inescapable nightmares��!


    Initially, they fought ��extermination battles�� to suppress the Four Pirs Cult, whichter turned into retreat battles as they suffered sessive defeats. In the end, it came down to desperate defensive battles to protect the Temple, showing how the Temple was almost shattered by the Four Pirs Cult��s relentless attacks.


    Moreover, it almost seemed like another timeline where Ashe overthrew Gerard and dominated Kaimon City, eventually reigning over the Blood Moon��how could the Four Pirs Cult in this Kingdom gain power so easily?What stood out in thest battle was that st didn��t actually believe the Temple would lose. Phrases like ��As long as the Temple deploys the ultimate weapon, these heretics will definitely be annihted�� appeared multiple times. Given that st was a two-wings sorcerer, his confidence was far from arrogance; yet, the Temple��s base was still obliterated.


    The reason was ��that woman actually controlled the weapon and turned it against us, she defected to the Four Pirs Cult.��


    This perplexed Ashe and hispanions: the strongestbat force of a sorcerer organization was not a sorcerer themselves, but an externally controlled object?


    It wasn��t that they were filled with the ��arrogance of sorcerers��. On the contrary, they all knew it was normal for sorcerers to be weaker than artificial constructs. The destructive power of most two-wings sorcerers might not even surpass that of a gun, their reconnaissance abilities were generally inferior to drones, and their mobility was even less than that��after all, even Sanctuary sorcerers prefer to ride in vehicles.


    But guns rust, drones can be shot down, and hovercars can turn into moving coffins in an instant. The true power of a sorcerer lies in their miracles that transcend ordinary rules: teleportation, gun explosions, mental shock, time maniption�� Artificial constructs pale inparison to these miracles; only a sorcerer can counter another sorcerer.


    The Temple st belonged to must have had Sanctuary sorcerers, possibly even legendary sorcerers, yet their strongestbat power was still an external object. Did that Kingdom manage to create an object with near Angel-level power?


    Ashe pondered further, considering that the Four Pirs Cult there had somehow enlisted Angel-level power?


    Although Ashe had no fondness for the Four Pirs Cult, he felt some bitterness in realizing his starting point was a survival game, whereas others began with a strategy game.


    Luckily, the Eternal Presence curse provided somefort, otherwise, Ashe might��ve considered himself the most unfortunate regional manager of the Four Pirs Cult.


    ��However,�� Ashe remarked while examining the details of the final battle, ��the traitorous ��that woman���� Why does this description seem so familiar?��


    ��It does seem a bit familiar.�� Sonya and Deya nodded in agreement.


    But news from other Kingdoms was ultimately just irrelevant entertainment. After finishing the Sorcerer��s Handbook, Ashe gained a new skill called ��Cavalry Mastery��. Although it was called cavalry, st was actually riding a motorcycle, making him a high-speed moving spellcasting shooter, which sounded both bloody and exciting.


    Still, it was more practical than something like ��Fishing Mastery����recently, all modes of transportation in Nabistin were motorcycles. With this ��Cavalry Mastery,�� Ashe could even race with Annan.


    With that in mind, Ashe couldn��t help but nce at Deya, ��Witch, how many skills have you mastered?��


    Ever since arriving at the Time Continent, all collected Sorcerer��s Handbooks were given to the Witch first. Plus, with three to four sorcerer projections crashing into them each night, Ashe suddenly realized that the Witch��s reading volume might be off the charts.


    ��Huh?�� Deya was startled and thought for a moment: ��Most of the skills are actually pretty useless, but White Queen and the others think slightly useful ones include things like ��Financial Analysis��, ��Political Tactics��, ��Human Structure Analysis��, ��Social Ecology Research��, ��Expression Management��, ��Hydraulic Engineering Research��, ��Cryptography��, and ��Love


    Deya casually listed over a dozen skill names before continuing, ����and a few dozen other skills. They��re not really useful because I��ve never systematically studied any of this; I can only rely on reading Sorcerer��s Handbooks to acquire various knowledge����


    However, the Cult Leader and the vige girl were already dumbfounded at this point. They never expected that the most knowledgeable person here would be the seemingly dim-witted Witch.


    Illiterate��it��s me!


    ��Even if you became an emperor, you��d be more than capable,�� Sonya said, somewhat envious. ��Having so many practical skills must be very helpful in your daily life, right?��


    ��Huh?�� Deya blinked, recalling how Lise��s hair needed Aunt Bukin to style, how she needed Ashe to sleep beside her, and how after a bit of study, she could indulge in food and y, ��Maybe�� I guess?��


    Though envious, the vige girl wasn��t resentful, as most of the high-value spirits collected by the team were handled by her, and those could be exchanged for tangible silver.


    Thanks to such financial stability, she could even send money back home, giving her the privilege to be selective about opportunities without having to undersell herself prematurely for money.


    For example, during the Meteor Trial, merchants offered her endorsement deals that varied by as much as twenty times in value, proving hermercial worth still had room for appreciation, even if she couldn��t match the top-tier performers.


    If she could clinch the top spot in the College League, she could seamlessly transition into film and music, quickly bing a star on par with Drose. Even if she wasn��t of nobility, she��d be part of high society!


    Once this was achieved, she��d have the considerable financial backing to support even a legendary sorcerer!


    This was Sonya��s small goal: to earn enough to support a legendary sorcerer!


    After all, even if Observer was highly skilled before his rebirth, he was probably just a legendary sorcerer, right?

 Chapter 459: Borrowing the Gospel

    After a brief rest, Ashe continued driving towards the unknown area to the left of the white bull. Since the white bull generally moved counterclockwise, its left side led to the interior of Time Continent, the area most likely to house the main city.


    Since the Oasis war, Ashe and his team had passed through the Blood Tomb, Spider Tower Area, and Star Shrine Area. There wasn��t much to say about the Spider Tower Area; although the Empress��smander was probably still out fighting, Ashe��s team prioritized safety, collecting spellforce at high speed, and logging off as soon as time was up, never working overtime.


    They had maps for the Blood Tomb and Star Shrine Area. Since it was the first round of the war and various factions needed time to consolidate their resources, they hurried to scavenge at the mapped resource points. Despite taking quick action and excelling at looting, they found that two out of every five resource points were already empty.


    As time went on, the likelihood of finding resources at these points would further decrease.


    That night, they left the Star Shrine Area and entered a territory unknown to them without any maps, making it impossible to scavenge even scraps. Thus, a n they had formted days earlier came back into y��to locate the main city of another region, guide the Spider Tower forces there to spark a conflict, and then profit by collecting soul summoning spirits,mander handbooks, and maps!


    If they could gather maps of the entire Time Continent, they might uncover the truth about the Rainbow Tail and unlock the grand prize��a shortcut to the thirdyer of the Virtual Realm!


    But the question was, where was the main city in the other regions?


    The main cities of the Star Shrine and Blood Tomb regions were near the interior of Time Continent, so Ashe drove towards the interior area hoping to get lucky. He didn��t necessarily need to find the main city outright because, based on past experience, there would definitely be patrols by the heroic soul legion around the main city. Finding these patrols would naturally lead them to the main city.


    In theory, given the exploration efficiency of a sports car, running into the heroic soul legion several times in one night would be normal. However, Ashe and his team had been wandering the interior area for almost two hours without finding a single heroic soul legion patrol. When they didn��t want to encounter them, the patrols followed them like stalkers; now that they were looking for them, they were nowhere to be found.Since ��no toilet paper�� was no longer an excuse, Ashe couldn��t shift the me and had to admit this time that it was his decision-making error��


    ��Observer, you��re exposed.��


    ��Huh?�� Ashe instinctively nced down at his pants.


    ��I mean, your soul summoning spirit is exposed,�� Sonya said, pointing to the spirit on Ashe��s shoulder, which was emitting a purple glow, smudging the space around it like watercolor.


    Ashe noticed the soul summoning spirit and then looked down at the virtual realm map��there really were no heroic soul legion patrols or main city information nearby!


    But the spirit��s reaction clearly indicated a stress response from Secret Incarnation entering a main city area, like a cat feeling territorial aggression.


    Not around, not on the ground, only one possibility remained.


    The three of them looked up at the sky, but the Rain Curtain of Reverse Golden Rain obscured everything, its dazzling golden light the perfect camouge. After a moment of thought, Ashe said, ��Get ready.��


    The sword Princess and Witch immediately went intobat mode. The sports car extended its Evil de and sprayed Toxic Mist, drawing circle after circle on the ground like a donut. The soul summoning spirit painted the space as well, tearing purple holes through the golden rain curtain.


    ��You actually found the Garden��s main city. I thought you��d hit Blood Tomb or Star Shrine first~��


    Even though they had anticipated this oue and it was exactly what they hoped for, hearing the Empress��szy voice still made Ashe and the others tense up. When they turned around, they saw Danzel and the Eight-eyed Weaver Spider emerging from the spiderweb. She was still in her form as The Girl of Secret Gaze, the spiderweb Eyepatch covering her eyes, and white bandages barely concealing her graceful curves, loungingzily atop the Eight-eyed Weaver Spider.


    ��But the Garden is best at defense,�� Danzel said, looking up at the sky. ��Fighting here is the most troublesome�� Hey, don��t leave. Since you��re here in another main city, you must want to cooperate, right?��


    ��That��s right,�� Ashe replied, eyes locked on the virtual realm map, his focus unwavering. If any heroic soul legion got close, he would bolt immediately. ��But I don��t trust you.��


    ��In this world, profit is more reliable than trust,�� Danzel said with a smile. ��My paramour, what is it you want? As sorcerers, you probably desire things likemander handbooks, virtual realm maps, and soul summoning spirits obtained frommanders. These are of no use to us; we can give them to you.��


    As she spoke, more and more heroic soul legion members emerged from the spiderweb, and thunderous footsteps echoed from behind the Rain Curtain. Ashe and hispanions had to move farther away. ��I don��t trust you,�� Ashe said. ?


    ��So, what do you suggest?�� Danzel propped her chin with her left hand, still smiling. ��I know you wouldn��t agree to sign a Pact, and even if we collect the spoils first and then give them to you, it��s negotiable. After all, we can��t exactly seize your Secret Incarnation, and you have superior mobility. Cooperation is my only option����


    ��Then tear up the Pact,�� Ashe suddenly said.


    ��Hm? What Pact?�� Danzel tilted her head. ��You mean the one where you promised undying passion in the Cabin?��


    ��The forced Pact you made with us,�� Ashe said calmly. ��Since you im you��re not nning to take the Secret Incarnation, cancel the Pact. Otherwise, it shows you��re still scheming against us.��


    After a moment of silence, Danzel shook her head. ��I don��t have the power to tear up the Pact����


    ��Goodbye!��


    Ashe left without hesitation. Though the Empressmander��s offer was tempting, he knew it was full of traps!


    If they followed the Empressmander��s lead, trying to craft a seemingly ��safe�� agreement through clever negotiation, they would definitely fall into her hands a third time. The Empress had already proven that she was highly skilled in dealing with smart, especially overly clever and greedy people!


    More importantly, the Empress had an uncanny insight into human nature. Last time, she nearly caused their team to split, and Witch to be alienated. Ashe couldn��t risk further dialogue with her. If they kept talking, she might provoke the sword Princess into bing more jealous, suspicious, and clingy.


    Therefore, Ashe would rather risk scavenging at the battlefield��s edge than collude with the Empress. This woman was like a Toxic Widow; staying away from her web was the smart move.


    Watching the sports car streak away with a purple trail and disappear into the Rain Curtain, Danzel chuckled. ��He��s actually gotten a bit smarter����


    ��They weren��t bait you released?�� a voice nearby asked. ��Is it possible for a sorcerer to seize a conceptual Incarnation from the Toxic Widow?��


    ��Laugh if you want. I won��t kill an ally,�� Danzel said, turning to look behind her. ��At least, not yet.��


    More heroic soul legion members emerged from the spiderweb, but this group was entirely different from the Spider Tower legion. Their armor was predominantly ck and green, thick and menacing, and most troops bore shackles on their necks or limbs, resembling floating nightmares. While the Spider Tower was mysterious and dangerous, this legion was wild and violent, like prison escapees who wanted to smash everything apart.


    The person speaking to Danzel was entirely encased in ck and green armor. He wielded a Greatsword in one hand and a short knife in the other, and behind his facete, only a pair of dark green eyes were visible.


    But Danzel knew him well; a thousand years of war had made it impossible not to. He was The Roamer, the chiefmander of the Oasis!


    Both having participated in the inaugural Great Appointment of the Six Nations, Danzel and The Roamer were undoubtedly some of the oldest heroic souls. Over the millennia, numerous battles had erupted between their forces due to shifting territorial boundaries. There was even a time when Danzel had killed The Roamer, only for him to be resurrected again.


    ��The soul fragment I retrieved doesn��t support aughing function.��


    ��Are you ready then?�� Danzel asked coolly. ��ording to the Pact, the Oasis is responsible for the second wave of the Vanguard attack. But before that, we need to take down the Garden. The spiderweb isn��t suited for this kind of task; you can deploy the Silent Spiral, right?��


    ��No problem,�� The Roamer replied. ��But before that, we need to discuss a cooperation��in reality.��


    ��Reality?�� Danzel raised an eyebrow. ��What does reality have to do with us?��


    ��Our subordinate Kingdom has encountered some issues recently, and we hope to borrow some people from your Kingdom.��


    ��What does trouble in your subordinate Kingdom have to do with you? And if there��s a problem within the Kingdom, why not have the Chasm Sovereign of Senlo����


    Danzel paused, suddenly realizing something. ��No way��?��


    ��Forget descending into reality, the Sovereign��s situation is so dire that he can��t even contact the Weaver directly, which is why he entrusted me to reach out to you,�� The Roamer stated openly, knowing there was no point in hiding the weakness of his Divine Sovereign given the desperation to borrow help from other Kingdoms. ��As payment for the support, the Oasis is willing to fully assist the Spider Tower in achieving victory in the Appointation War.��


    ��Aren��t you afraid that the Weaver will take this opportunity to infiltrate your Kingdom?�� Danzel couldn��t help but ask.


    ��The virtual realm passage has opened numerous times over the millennia; mutual infiltration has happened countless times before. One more instance won��t make a difference. Moreover,pared to the Weaver��s infiltration, the internal mdy within our Kingdom is far more intolerable.��


    ��What exactly has happened in your Kingdom?��


    ��The Four Pirs.�� The Roamer was sinct.


    Danzel��s expression grew more serious. ��Is the Sovereign��s condition also rted to the Four Pirs?��


    The Roamer shook his head, leaving it unclear whether he was denying it or simply unsure.


    ��So, what kind of support do you need?�� Danzel asked. ��A few legendary sorcerers? Or perhaps a legion?��


    ��The Sovereign��s intention is to resolve all troubles in one go since we��re already borrowing people,�� The Roamer exined. ��We want to borrow the most precious treasure of your Kingdom.��


    ��The Gospel.��


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 460: Secrecy Power

    In the hotel, Ashe opened his eyes, feeling a chill down his back and an icy sensation on his arm��the dampness of the underground floor was indeed heavy.


    Wait, how did I end up on the floor?


    Ashe sat up and saw Lise, dressed in a seal-print robe, sprawled out in a starfish shape, upying the entire single bed. Clearly, he had been kicked off.


    Looking at her little feet tugging at the nket, Ashe could almost picture how he had been slowly pushed out of bed by this little seal.


    He gently covered her with the nket, sat down on a nearby chair, and without turning on the light, summoned the ��Secret Toxin Diary�� and began documenting the night��s events and discoveries from the back��while the front contained adventures recorded chronologically, the back was for immediately noteworthy life events. The sorcerer who had found his diary copy seemed to enjoy reading it, and its readership was steadily growing.


    Although it was a diary meant for himself alone, Ashe wrote in great detail. His writing skills might becking, but his attitude was certainly serious.


    ����Spiral mes pierced the sky like a spear, scattering the entire area��s Reverse Golden Rain. Under the glow of the mes, the ground quickly sprouted giant vines and trees. Even though we were already far away, our Sports car was flipped over, and we were all thrown out by the inertia. I used my sword body barrier to protect the Witch and could only hold onto the Sword Princess while rolling����


    ��This is likely the Divine Intervention controlled by the Oasis, different from the spatial transfer of the spiderweb. Its regr effect seems to target the main city. And then, something happened that I may never, or at least rarely, see again in my life��the entire main city was plummeting towards the ground, and we were right beneath it. It��s worth mentioning that the Sword Princess, in fear, curled up and sang softly in my ear. I can tease her about this in the future.��


    ��Of course, the main city didn��t crash directly, or they would have been pulverized as well. The main city eventually hovered tens of meters above ground, and when we looked up, we could see this astonishing inverted city, filled with shining orange sunflowers; the Garden was aptly named. The entire main city blended so well with the hue of the Reverse Golden Rain that it waspletely invisible from the ground������Unlike other main cities, perhaps as a price for existing in the sky, the Garden main city doesn��t possess defensive capabilities. A joint salvo from the Spider Tower and Oasis took out a tenth of the flowers in one strike. The flowers are clearly a crucial resource for the Garden main city, and the battlefield initiative thus shifted to the invaders. The Garden legion had to descend to the ground to battle Spider Tower and Oasis�� This makes sense, actually. If the Garden could both float and defend itself, other legions would have to fly up to invade it, giving Garden far too great an advantage, almost making it unbeatable.��


    ��Although this world doesn��t have a bnce mechanism, the Divine Sovereign isn��t above flipping the table. If you��re not fair, he will ensure fairness.��


    ��Thanks to the chaos, we managed to snatch threemander handbooks, four soul summoning spirits, and maps of both the Garden and the Spider Tower, allowing us to retreat smoothly before the Refracting Wall shattered. The soul summoning spirits were three from Garden and one from Spider Tower. My soul summoning spirit activated both orange and purple, and my special troop type, Tri-tone Anchor, advanced to Five-tone Anchor�� It��s a pity we didn��t get the Oasis map. I��m still two maps short of lighting up the entire Time Continent.��


    ��We each get onemander handbook. Actually, I wanted to give two to the Sword Princess and one to the Witch, since I��m prettyid-back about Sect Realm improvements. But I worry the Witch might feel it��s unfair. Maybe she wouldn��t care, but I do. It��s like raising two daughters; you have to constantly ensure the scales are bnced�� Though at least they won��t kick me out of the car.��


    ��Thinking back, I feel like I said some very embarrassing things to the Sword Princess tonight. But I won��t write that down; you probably wouldn��t be interested anyway.��


    Closing the Secret Toxin Diary, Ashe fell into deep thought.


    There was one thing he hadn��t written in the diary: on the battlefield, they had taken down a Spider Towermander. To pull this off, both the Sword Princess and the Witch had geared up with the Sixth-level Troop Type ��Starburst Warrior.�� Under the effect of the ��Mysterious Power�� from the Secret Incarnation, they were perceived as neutral units by Spider Tower and managed to sneak up on and ambush themander.


    Otherwise, given the overwhelming assault on Garden by both Spider Tower and Oasis, there was no way a Spider Towermander could have died unless the Garden used a Divine Intervention.


    Ashe and his team took such a risky venture to unlock the second power of the Secret Incarnation. There was no better opportunity for an assassination than on a battlefield. Fortunately, Ashe temporarily upgraded the Refracting Wall to Level 11; otherwise, they wouldn��t have made it out alive.


    But the power they unlocked after all that effort was somewhat�� delicate:


    ��Secrecy Power: You keep your lips sealed; no one can know the secrets deepest in your heart, but secrets also guard your soul. You can��t reveal your most valued secrets, and the more you want to confide, the stronger the confidentiality effect bes.��


    ��Secrecy (Confide Degree 13%): Your mental resistance increases by 13%, and your soul��s adaptability to deities of simr sects increases by 13%.��


    Ashe immediately recalled the intelligence they had received from the Mermaid. Harvey��s future ability to control deities hinged on obtaining a rted Conceptual Incarnation on the Time Continent, allowing him to house a deity.


    At that time, Ashe wondered if the Secret Incarnation would have a simr effect. He certainly didn��t expect it to be unlocked this way.


    The Secrecy Power was indeed formidable. Increasing adaptability to wield a deity was a celestialdder, the path of an Angel. However, it was meaningless to Ashe and his team��as two-wings golden sorcerers, even if they were three-wings Sanctuary, they were still far from bing deities!


    It��s like a low-level yer in an MMORPG being able to wield god-tier gear��the problem is, where��s the god-tier gear!?


    Thinking about this, Ashe couldn��t help but feel that the Divine Sovereigns were truly insidious. The ones who most needed a Conceptual Incarnation were undoubtedly the four-wings legendary sorcerers. Yet Conceptual Incarnations seemed to only appear on the Time Continent, in a time where even legendary sorcerers were just weaklings who had to flee at the sight of a heroic soul legion. It was truly a case of ��meeting the best when I have nothing,�� and missing out meant no second chances.


    What bothered Ashe more was��what secret did the Secrecy Power seal for him?


    Time travel? The Sorcerer��s Handbook? The perverse fetish that even Bewitchers found twisted? Or perhaps his true feelings��


    The Sword Princess and the Witch were keen on helping him figure it out, but Ashe quickly saw through their intentions; they just wanted to dig up his embarrassing history. Naturally, he made a swift exit.


    But with a confide degree of only 13%, it meant he had no intention of saying it out loud anyway. Thinking about it more was pointless. The Secrecy Power��s design was truly twisted: the more you value or want to confide it, the less it allows you to speak, and the stronger the attribute boosts it provides. It seems only an assassin or someone with a deep crush could truly utilize this power to its fullest.


    Realizing this, Ashe summoned the Gospel Book and flipped to ��Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook�� �C ��Supply Purchase.��


    After uploading the inexpensive spirits the Sword Princess didn��t need from tonight, Ashe��s points finally surpassed the 328 mark!


    This meant he could now purchase something worth 328 points and trigger the double bonus on the first purchase��a ��box of Source Crystals��!


    However, Ashe wasn��t really interested in card draws. After all, the ��Dance of Swords and Dragons Limited Search�� had long since ended, and he had no chance to pull the Limited Outfit ��Bridal Sword Princess.��


    In truth, he didn��t particrly want it; he mainly wanted to buy clothes to reward the Sword Princess.


    Even though Ashe could strengthen his ��intentions�� using the Gospel Book, enabling him to draw needed items even from the standard pool, the problem was he didn��t have a specific item he currently wanted��the Bridal Sword Princess was unattainable anyway.


    Infiltrating the Royal Pce to assassinate the princess was certainly dangerous, but there were no items in the standard pool that could quickly boost hisbat strength. As for new operators�� Honestly, these days were not suitable for recruiting new operators. At least not until the Weaving Festival ended, when he would take Lise as Igor��s dowry maid to live as a parasite at Belldate��s house. Only then would he have the energy to deal with moreplex rtionships.


    It would be best if a new limited pool came out. Only then would Ashe feel apelling urge to make an in-game purchase. Even without the Bridal Sword Princess, swimsuits, qipaos, clergy outfits, Bewitchers, maids��everything would be on the table!


    So Ashe continued to save these points, waiting for the urge to draw cards toe back.


    Without the impulse to draw cards, how could he possibly get anything good!?


    At that moment, Lise stirred on the bed, wing at the air without grabbing anything before she sat up, rubbing her eyes, and sleepily scanned the room until she saw Ashe. Yawning, shey back down and patted the bed a few times, sounding a soft, nasal ��hmm hm�� to prompt him.


    ��What?��


    ��Come to bed����


    ��I��m already awake.��


    ��Then I won��t sleep either,�� Lise said as she came over and sat on the chair next to him.


    ��Little kids who don��t get enough sleep won��t grow up properly!��


    ��I��m not scared!��


    ��Speaking of which, something just crossed my mind,�� Ashe said. ��After the Weaving Festival ends, can you go back to being a princess?��


    ��Huh?��


    ��Regardless of whether our mission seeds or fails, you won��t have a reason to stay out here. Plus, you��re thest bloodline of the Yisuo Royal Family. They wouldn��t let you roam around as amoner, right? Wouldn��t you go back to the Royal Pce and continue being a princess?��


    In the darkness, Lise widened her eyes and stared at Ashe. ��Dad, are you trying to get rid of me?��


    ��No, not at all����


    ��Then why are you asking this! You said we would live together after the Weaving Festival!��


    ��Here��s the problem,�� Ashe exined. ��Where would we live?��


    ��Eh?�� Lise was stumped; to her, this question was a bitplex.


    ��After leaving the Funeral, I don��t have any connections, real estate, or even a job. It feels like our quality of life is going to take a nosedive. And ��Princess of Yisuo�� sounds way more impressive than ��Ashe��s daughter������


    ��Who says so! Thetter is way more super-duper awesome!��


    ��Well, it��s a bit troublesome then,�� Ashe scratched his head. ��If it were just me, I wouldn��t mind sleeping under a bridge in a cardboard box, but with you, I��d have to put in some effort. For a happy life, I have roughly three proposals����


    ��First, I sell my charm and beg Annan to take care of us.��


    Lise swung her legs and looked down, ��I don��t want a stepmom right now����


    ��Second, we beg Igor to sell his charm and let Belldate take care of us.��


    ��That sounds good,�� Lise said, ��but Aunt Bukin never seems to be willing.��


    ��Then we can only go with the third n,�� Ashe said. ��Let the Substitute go out to work and earn money.��


    ��But the Substitute can��t earn much, right?�� Lise thought for a moment, ��But whatever, as long as I��m with you, Dad, Lise doesn��t mind being a little poor����


    ��No way! No matter how tough things get, they shouldn��t be tough on the kids. For your happiness, I��ll do my best!�� Ashe dered firmly.

 Chapter 461: The Man in the Dark Red Trench Coat

    ��Igor, how��s this pressure?��


    ��Need more water? Let me help! Want some fries? Open your mouth, ah~��


    In the canteen on the first floor of the inn, the Con Artist watched Ashe, who was being unusually attentive early in the morning. He turned away from the offered fries and let out a long sigh. ��Spill it, what do you want this time to humiliate me again? Do you want me to hypnotize someone to find you a girlfriend? Or help you rebuild the Four Pirs Cult?��


    ��No way!�� Ashe replied firmly. ��I just realized I haven��t properly thanked you before, so I want to strengthen our rtionship�� purely academic, of course. How long does your hypnosisst, and how effective is it?��


    ��No ulterior motives?��


    ��None! But Igor, how old are you this year? What are your ns after the Weaving Festival? Have you thought about settling down����


    ��Oh~~~,�� Igor said meaningfully. ��But why are you only concerned about me? Harvey isn��t any younger than me. You don��t ask him?��


    ��What��s there to ask? His answer is sure to be ��dig up all the ancestors in Gospel��.��


    Harvey swallowed the sandwich in his mouth and shook his head. ��An outsider��s prejudice��it��s like flowers. Only at full bloom are they most strikingly beautiful; afterward, they��re just withered remains. I��m not interested in ancestral graves. In necromancy, the 48 hours after death are called ��Ephemeral Time��. Livor mortis gradually forms, internal organs autolyze, and the corpse can produce super-reactions to external stimuli, making it the best period for appreciation. Over in Blood Moon, they never keep a corpse longer than 48 hours for simr reasons����Ashe suddenly felt something was off. Even though Harvey was talking about such disgusting stuff, it didn��t affect his breakfast appetite at all, nor did it for anyone else. Even Lise was eating with relish.


    After the Weaving Festival, Ashe must keep his distance from Harvey. He definitely didn��t want his first reaction to seeing a corpse to be appreciation rather than fear!


    ��In conclusion,�� Ashe said warmly, kneading Igor��s shoulders, ��you want to settle down too, right? Aren��t you tired of this wandering life?��


    ��Well���� Igor rxed his shoulders, enjoying the Cult Leader��s service. ��Indeed, I��m not very interested in traveling. It��s time to live a more stable life.��


    ��Exactly, exactly,�� Ashe nodded repeatedly. ��And the best choice for you to settle down is, without a doubt����


    Igor covered Ashe��s mouth with his hand. ��Yes, managing the Four Pirs Cult.��


    Ashe: ��?!��


    ��Just kidding,�� Igor released his hand andughed. ��But Rust Crow��s Four Pirs Cult does align perfectly with my career ns. Even without the Four Pirs�� help, I intend to create a secret organization, gradually gaining fame, power, and money, to establish a business in Gospel����


    ��But wouldn��t marrying into Belldate��s family also give you all of that? Plus, you��d have a super cute genius daughter, just as adorable as Lise!��


    Lise, now slightly satisfied, turned her gaze away. Igor, annoyed, said, ��That��s all nonsense from Gospel. Anfel and I would never get to that point. And why do you keep pushing me to marry into Belldate? What��s in it for you?��


    ��I��m really just thinking of you,�� Ashe��s eyes wandered. ��Of course, it would be great if you could remember an old cellmate after you hit the big time.��


    ncing at Ashe and Lise, Igor instantly understood his true intentions. Grumpily, he turned to Annan. ��Did you find a job in the ground city?��


    ��Yes,�� Annan replied. ��One in city sanitation, one as a doll worker, and one as a canteen server. We��ll head out after breakfast.��


    Ashe asked, ��Hey? Young Lady, aren��t youing with us?��


    ��I��m definitely going.��


    ��But there are only three jobs����


    ��Only Igor, Harvey, and I are going. You and Banjeet will stay at the inn,�� Annan red at Ashe. ��Your task is to apany Banjeet throughout the day. Do not separate for too long, understood?�� ??


    Seeing the worry in Annan��s eyes, Ashe immediately realized something. ��Is it because of the Assassination Ranking?��


    ��That��s right,�� Annan said. ��Banjeet is number two on the Assassination Ranking and was rendered ineffective by ��you��, the Echoer. The Yisuo Royal Family might send someone to impersonate you to assassinate Banjeet, fulfilling the future woven by the Assassination Ranking, just like Helephes and Roger on the Evil Arts Ranking. Leaving Banjeet alone is too dangerous; he must be apanied by a sorcerer.��


    ��Sorry,�� the blue-haired butler lowered his head in shame. ��I��ve been a burden����


    ��The Yisuo Royal Family wouldn��t dare kill me to maintain Gospel��s credibility, so as long as I stay by Banjeet��s side, their assassins won��t show up!�� Ashe fully understood. ��You all go make money; I��ll handle things at home!��


    Though his reasoning was sound, it carried an odd toneing from Ashe��s mouth��


    After breakfast, the group split into two teams. Before parting, Igor pulled Ashe aside and asked, ��Haven��t you thought about your ns for after the Weaving Festival?��


    ��It��s not that I haven��t����


    ��That means you haven��t.�� The Con Artist paused for a moment. ��If you��re interested, you cane help me.��


    ��Help you?�� Ashe blinked. ��I��m not skilled at nor do I enjoy deceiving people����


    ��I��m not eager for you to ruin my business.�� Igor nced at the little white-haired girl. ��You just need a ce to settle down with Lise, right? Stay home and study spellcasting; you don��t need to do anything else.��


    ��Is it really that simple?�� Ashe asked, suddenly suspicious. ��You don��t have any ulterior motives, do you?��


    ����I actually like Lise quite a bit myself,�� Igor admitted, his eyes drifting upward. ��I can��t just watch her continue wandering with you. While starting a business won��t make us rich quickly, it��s more than enough to support you two freeloaders.��


    ��That��s true; who wouldn��t like Lise? She��s so adorable,�� Ashe nodded in agreement. ��I never thought one day I��d rely on my daughter��s cuteness to make a living�� but I��ll gratefully ept your offer!��


    After bidding farewell to the work team, Ashe and the group returned to their room at the inn. The blue-haired, ck-haired, and white-haired trio exchanged nces until Ashe made a hand-rolling gesture.


    Banjeet caught on and pulled an ancient gaming console and a box full of game cartridges from his suitcase. They could project the games onto the wall for some fun.


    ��Lise, you need to finish your Gospel basic education study tasks before you can y games!��


    ��If you guys are ying right next to me, how am I supposed to study?��


    ��Good point,�� Ashe thought for a moment. ��I��ll study with you this afternoon, so no cking off.��


    ��Deal!��


    The three spent the entire morning enjoying ssic old-time games, and even the usually mncholy Banjeet started to smile.


    After losing nine consecutive matches to Banjeet in Sorcerer Duel 14, Ashe let out a dramatic wail and dropped the controller. ��I��ve cracked the case. I definitely didn��t assassinate you because of some ridiculous reason like killing the Empress. It��s because you kept beating me so badly, and I just needed an excuse for revenge!��


    ��To be honest, I also find it hard to believe that you, Mr. Ashe, would kill me.�� Banjeet chuckled. ��It��s like imagining Harvey hating corpses or Lady Qenna being affectionate.��


    Ashe blinked. ��You��re not implying anything with that, right?��


    ��Of course not,�� Banjeet replied, sipping his tea. ��But if you end up with ourdy in the future, please steer clear of Lady Qenna.��


    ��Gospel makes up all sorts of nonsense, Banjeet, you��re overthinking it.�� Ashe shook his head with a smile. ��Besides, you know yourdy has secret aspirations she doesn��t reveal. Emotions are just a side dish to her, while her ideals are the main course�� Men would only slow her down.��


    Ashe stood up and said, ��It��s almost lunchtime; I��ll go downstairs to the canteen and bring some food back.��


    ��Thanks a lot.��


    Lise patted her behind and stood up, saying, ��I��m going back to my room to use the restroom!��


    Listening to the sound of the door closing, Banjeet gazed out at the underground city through the window. Even though it was noon, the absence of a day-night cycle made it remain a city of eternal night.


    Banjeet knew that in the near future, not just Nabistin but all of Gospel would undergo dramatic changes due to Funeral��s actions, turning countless fates around 180 degrees. However, he had neither the power nor the desire to intervene.


    He was Dn��s butler, loyal to Funeral��s will.


    For now, he just wanted to enjoy a few more days of peace, and then, like ice, silently melt away into the water.


    Knowing it was almost time to eat, the blue-haired butler went to the restroom to wash his hands. Suddenly, the water stopped flowing, and the restroom lights flickered. At the same moment, the sound of the door hinges turning reached his ears.


    But he heard no footsteps.


    Banjeet raised his head and saw in the mirror a figure at the door: a man dressed in a dark red trench coat, wearing a mask.

 Chapter 462: Dolan

    A dark red trench coat.


    A pitch-ck Mask.


    An indistinct face.


    There was no doubt that this was Ashe Heath. However, over sixty years of life experience constantly warned Banjeet, and even his spirits trembled in fear deep within his soul. Important spirits like ��Iceheart,�� ��Bonechill,�� and ��Frostbite�� were going berserk, attacking his other spirits frantically.


    In that critical moment, Banjeet suddenly understood why Helephes and Roger had died so easily��they had no power to resist at all!


    A spirit riot was happening!


    The only spirits Banjeet could still control were the original spirits he had summoned himself. All the other spirits, those acquired from the Virtual Realm or purchased in reality, lost control. The ones merely shivering and refusing to work were troublesome but tolerable. The real problem was the newer spirits, those not bound to him for long, which had outright rebelled, attacking Banjeet��s original spirits. Banjeet was over sixty years old; his spirit system had rarely been updated, and even the most recent rebellious spirits had been with him for at least three years.


    For younger sorcerers like Helephes and Roger, who were still in their prime, their spirits underwent minor updates almost every year and major updates every three years. The ratio of original to external spirits might even be as high as 1:10 or more. Once a spirit riot urred, their original spirits could be beaten to death by the external spirits!


    If an original spirit was killed and all external spirits rioted, they would have no spirits to use. Unless they were physical sorcerers, they would be no different from non-sorcerers!Using only original spirits could prevent a spirit riot, but that was impossible. During the foundational period of a silver sorcerer, the proportion of original spirits might be higher. However, by the time one reached the golden sorcerer stage, to build a functioning battle system or production system, the sorcerer inevitably needed to use one or two original spirits as the mainstay to construct their system. It��s likeparing a family workshop to a factory: thetter has more management risks, but the increase in productivity vastly outweighs the risks.


    Moreover, in fifty years of being a sorcerer, Banjeet had never encountered a spirit riot before, nor had he even heard of it. It made sense though��any sorcerer who encountered a spirit riot likely hadn��t survived to tell the tale.


    Was it the spirits, a Miracle, or��?


    Am I going to die?


    Banjeet found himself surprisingly calm, but when he lifted his head, he saw neither ��Ashe�� nor a mirror.


    What he saw was a rainy night.


    Arge, outdated truck was parked outside a nostalgic caf��, the air filled with the acrid smell of tires and asphalt from the harsh braking. A woman in a purple trench coaty on the ground, her lower body tangled in the truck��s tires.


    Banjeet��s mind went nk in an instant. The screech of headlights, the screams of passersby, and the pitiful howls of raindrops shattering on the pavement��all of it was muted from his ears, the world silenced without an echo. He knelt by the woman��s side, opening a blue umbre, but the rain still fell on her face.


    ��The rain is too heavy; the umbre is useless,�� the woman managed to smile. ��Don��t cry, Little Banjeet. Though I must say, you look pretty even when you cry�� it��s no wonder you��re�� cough�� number one.��


    ��Healers will be here soon,�� Banjeet��s voice cracked, his vision blurred, and the anguish spread from his limbs to his heart. The mature andposed butler suddenly vanished, leaving only a frail boy behind. ��And aren��t you a sorcerer? A Miracle! Use a Miracle! You said, after the Weaving Festival, we would be family. You��re lying! You promised by the Name of Dn!��


    ��When I promised by the Name of Dn, it meant I wasmitting to deceiving you,�� the woman chuckled. ��Banjeet, you are already my family, so I want to ask you for a favor����


    ��No! I won��t do it! I don��t want to!��


    ��Lex is only three, and I have no other rtives. I can only ask you to take care of him. That little rascal likes to cling to you, probably sees you as a future wife����


    ��Why should I take care of your kid? You do it yourself! Once you��re dead, I��ll feed him to the dogs!��


    ��That doesn��t matter. Dn should have perished long ago; it��s a wonder we made it this far,�� the woman��s voice grew fainter. ��I��m sorry, Banjeet. I really�� wanted to give you a home����


    ��At least�� I don��t want you�� to be alone in the rain����


    The air died, the night rain died, and the young Banjeet died as well.


    When the rain ceased, Banjeet lifted his head and realized he had arrived on the outskirts of Azura. At that time, Azura had not yet built the city on the second level, and the outskirts were still waiting for development. A young man, donned in a purple helmet, mounted his motorcycle and said, ��This is as far as I can take you.�� ?


    ��What exactly are you nning to do?�� Banjeet asked. ��Why can��t you tell me?��


    ��Rebellion phase, old man. You wouldn��t understand.��


    ��You��re already in your twenties; isn��t it a bitte for a rebellion phase?�� Banjeet sighed. ��Now that you��re spreading your wings, you call me an old man. You were so adorable as a child, always following me around. Every time I turned, there you were. Back then, you called me����


    ��That was over a decade ago!�� the young man interrupted, agitated. ��Can��t you look to the future like young people do, instead of clinging to the past!��


    Thunder rumbled in the distance, and the sky was thick with clouds. Banjeet remarked, ��It��s going to rain. How about����


    ��Then I better hit the road,�� the young man replied. ��By the way, I want to ask you a favor.��


    ��Hmm?��


    ��Don��t go taking care of Annan. She��ll do fine in Vamora. I��ve deposited money into your ount and transferred some Gospel points to you. You��re not getting any younger, old man. Find a ce to settle down, or maybe publish your novels. They might not have literary value, but they could surprisingly sell well����


    ��Wait a minute.�� Banjeet ced his hand on the young man��s shoulder and pointed his gun directly at his waist. ��What are you really nning to do? Go back, or I��ll freeze you and take you back myself.��


    ��I bet there��s no bullet in your gun.��


    Banjeet was stunned, instantly noticing the unusual weight of his gun. By now, the rain was pouring heavily, and through the sound of raindrops, the young man��s voice said, ��You shouldn��t have let me y with your gun since childhood. Removing the bullets was all too easy.��


    ��Lex, even if you don��t care about yourself, think about Annan����


    ��It��s for Annan that I��m doing this. If I don��t, she��d eventually walk this same path. By the Name of Dn, I will end our family��s fate.��


    ��What about me? Lex, what about me?!�� Banjeet gripped his shoulder tightly, his voice filled with desperation. ��How many times do the Dn family intend to hurt me?! I��ve already lost Wenna����


    ��That��s why, while I could write letters to others, I had to tell you in person,�� the young man said. ��I��m sorry, Mom.��


    ��Don��t ever look back. I��m gone.��


    Many dayster, on a bright afternoon, Banjeet finally received the news of Lex��s death. The location was Nabistin, and the cause was a traffic ident.


    The sunlight died, the tears died, and the middle-aged Banjeet died too.


    Just as Banjeet was about to drown in the Family Dream of the Six Heraldry, a little girl nervously approached him. ��Uncle Banjeet, I found a way to escape Vamora!��


    ��Miss, Senhaeser is a safe ce, there��s no need for you to leave.��


    ��No, I am a descendant of the Dn family. I must restore the glory of our ancestor, Danzel!��


    ��Miss, yourst name is Senhaeser now.��


    ��That��s precisely why I must leave. Vamora only breeds ipetence; I need to see the world outside!�� The little girl spoke with determination. ��And Qenna keeps bullying me. By the Name of Dn, I will get my revenge in the future!��


    Banjeet couldn��t help butugh, but as he looked at Annan, it was as though he was transported back to his own youth and middle age.


    How could he possibly refuse an invitation from the Dn family?


    ��Although I don��t fully understand why, our family is cursed by the Gospel,�� Annan said. ��Maybe because of this connection, I was able to log into our ancestors�� ounts and read the future with Empress-level ess. From logging in so many times, I��ve seen that I��lle to an end at 28�� I don��t even know what kind of future the Gospel has prepared for me.��


    ��So that��s it���� Banjeet muttered.


    ��That��s why I must obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish; it��s the only way to break the chains of our bloodline. Just like Grandma helped you win first ce at the Weaving Festival, I need to find others from exotds to deceive the Weaving Festival. The best time to find them is a few days before the festival, so their records are clean enough����


    ��Hmm? The client behind this is the Four Pirs Cult? They��re looking for people from exotds too? Cleos asked me just a few days ago if I had any intelligence on the Four Pirs Cult�� Four Pirs Cult, Red Hat, exotd�� I suddenly have a brilliant idea.��


    ��Banjeet, are you ready to cause some chaos with me?�� Annan asked with a mischievous grin.


    ��Of course,�� Banjeet replied, ncing out the window at the drizzling rain. ��Until I melt into this rain.��


    Banjeet opened his eyes to find himself in a strange pce. Before himy Annan, copsed in a pool of blood. The Purple Moth was stained a vivid crimson.


    He looked up and saw the Empress behind the veil. Memories of the air, night rain, sunlight, and tears all seemed to rush back to him.


    He understoodpletely.


    ��I am a block of ice, frozen with my love for Dn.��


    ��For thisst journey, how could I bear to let her walk it alone?��


    ��I indeed rank second on the Assassination Ranking,�� Banjeet said, pulling out his dual ice-curse pistols. ��This is my future.��


    Just as he charged forward, a man in a dark red trench coat emerged from behind the veil. He parried all the bullets with his long sword and then thrust the sword, forming an ice spike that pierced straight through. Banjeet suddenly recalled his own death��


    Those who assassinate the Empress will be pierced through by the coldest ice spike!


    ��Dad!��


    When Lise��s sweet voice echoed from outside, ��Ashe�� cast a deep, meaningful look at Banjeet, and all visions of the future faded like smoke.


    Ashe walked in carrying takeout bags with Lise. ��Dinner time, dinner time!��


    The faucet was still running, and the mirror reflected no man in a dark red trench coat��only Ashe and Lise passing through the doorway. Lise followed Ashe like a little shadow, and it all seemed like nothing more than a hallucination to Banjeet moments ago.

 Chapter 463: I Can Take Care of You All Too

    Banjeet came out after washing his hands and saw that Ashe and Lise were already eating. He poured everyone a cup of tea, sat down, and said, ��I was just attacked by Ashe.��


    ��What?!�� Ashe, who was eating a sandwich, was stunned.


    ��Oops!�� Lise sprayed orange juice onto Ashe��s face. ��Dad, how could you��I��d rather you find a stepmom��wait, are you and Aunt Bukin����


    Ashe chopped Lise on the head, interrupting her endless imagination. He wiped his face with a napkin, turned and asked, ��You were attacked by that, uh, ��Gospel Ashe��?��


    Banjeet nodded and briefly described what he had just encountered: ���� Although it was an illusion, ording to my state of mind, if Annan really died, I would definitely assassinate the Empress to avenge her. Therefore, being second on the Assassination Ranking is not entirely made up; it could very well be my future.��


    ��Helephes and Roger probably died the same way. First, they were trapped by a spirit riot and couldn��t resist, and then they were pulled into an illusion based on the Future Ranking. Once they realized this truly was their future and something they would do, ��Gospel Ashe�� appeared to kill them, making their ranking invalid.��


    Ashe asked, ��But when we came in, we didn��t find anything. How did ��Gospel Ashe�� leave?��


    ��I suspect ��Gospel Ashe�� isn��t a person but a Miracle or something simr. It��ll automatically find us Echoers and pull us into an illusion when no one is around.��


    ��How can you kill someone in an illusion?�� Ashe still didn��t quite understand. ��Besides, Roger jumped off a building in front of us, and Helephes was lying on the square fountain��they both walked there themselves!����That might be why ��Gospel Ashe�� only appears after I acknowledge it��s my future,�� Banjeet said. ��In the ranking lists of the Evil Arts Ranking and Assassination Ranking, ��Ashe�� and ��future�� are highly intertwined. Once we ept thetter, we have to ept the former. Therefore, any harm ��Gospel Ashe�� inflicts on us in the Illusion gets manifested on our own bodies��the ones truly killing the Echoers are ourselves!��


    ��Think about it carefully. Anyone killed by ��Gospel Ashe�� within the ranking list, weren��t their injuries rted to their own abilities?�� Banjeet asked.


    Ashe was taken aback. Reflecting on it, he realized it was true. After Roger��s suicide, he was melted by the gue virus; Helephes, who was skilled in the Water Sect, was shriveled and drowned in the air; and Banjeet had been pierced by an ice sword!


    ��That��s right!�� Lise said. ��How could Dad master so many spellcasting sects? The fact that Dad is even a two-wings sorcerer is already surprising enough!��


    ��Can you have a little more faith in me?�� Ashe angrily rubbed Lise��s head. ��Once I sessfully invent the Miracle of substitute cultivation, mastering all sects will just be a matter of time!��


    ��Dad, you just ate fries and now you��re touching my hair!��


    Actually, Ashe might indeed master many spellcasting sects since the operators�� sect experience was all shared with him, though there was no need to mention that.


    ��This attack failed, but there might be a next time,�� Ashe looked at Banjeet. ��What are you nning to do?��


    ��It��s simple. When you and Lise returned, it left immediately, which means as long as there��s someone with me, there won��t be an attack,�� Banjeet said. ��Mr. Ashe, I��d like to spend as much time with you in the next few days.��


    ��No problem.��


    ��One more thing, I hope this stays a secret among the three of us. Please don��t tell Miss Dn.��


    Ashe was taken aback: ��Why?��


    ��Knowing this would only add to her worries,�� Banjeet said. ��She��s already very tired. I just want to quietly apany her inpleting the final task of the Funeral. I am Dn��s butler; when needed, I am a life-taking gun, but I can also be a life-sacrificing shield.��


    ��Mr. Ashe,�� the blue-haired butler looked hopefully at the Cult Leader, ��would you grant an old man��sst wish?��


    Ashe pondered for a moment and then nodded, ��I won��t bring it up on my own.��


    Nighttime.


    ����So that��s the situation. As long as someone stays with Banjeet, the Yisuo Royal Family��s Assassination Miracle won��t work.��


    In Annan��s room, Ashe finished speaking, took a sip of water, and spread his hands, saying, ��You ordered me to say it. I��m bound by the Pact to be truthful; otherwise, I wouldn��t have divulged it.��


    ��You came into my room all hesitant and kept your clothes on. Of course, I knew you were hiding something.�� Annan, dressed in a purple nightgown, sat in the chair with her legs crossed and smiled, ��Didn��t expect you to be so good at exploiting loopholes. Guess I can��t trust your promises anymore.��


    ��I don��t have some moral purism. If keeping a promise might lead to something bad, there��s no need to keep it. Principles exist for inner peace, just like ying games is for creating joy. Once the order is reversed, it��s just torture,�� Ashe said. ��Besides, you��re the person closest to Banjeet. If hiding this secret led to an irreversible ident, I��d just be the fool Igor always says I am.��


    ��In any case, thank you all for saving Banjeet. And thank you for betraying that secret.�� Annan touched her earring and lowered her eyes. ��Fortunately, you were here. Really, thank you.��


    Ashe asked, ��So what do you n to do?��


    Annan stood up and leaned against the windowsill, looking out at the underground city��s scenery. ��Act like I don��t know anything and let him stay, participate in the operation.��


    ��I thought you��d send someone to get him out.��


    ��I do wish to do that, but sometimes, it��s not just about saying ��I��m doing this for you�� to arrange someone else��s fate.�� The Purple Moth said, ��Even the Gospel doesn��t have that right.��


    ��And like he said, if I die, he wouldn��t let me go to hell alone. If I seed and stay alive, then his participation won��t hurt. So why make him sad again?��


    Annan sighed lightly, ��Dn has already wronged him enough.��


    Ashe walked to her side and said, ��Don��t worry. The Ranking of Schemes shows you and Banjeet performing the tenth scheme together, proving you��ll be alright.��


    ��We, who try to deceive fate, still rely on the future to save us?�� Annan couldn��t help butugh. ��Enough about that�� By the way, Ashe, were you discussing ns for after the Weaving Festival with Igor this morning?��


    ��Yes,�� Ashe said. ��No matter what I said, Igor doesn��t want to depend on Belldate and insists on starting his own business. Lise and I n to join him.��


    ��Why?��


    ��Because he��s willing to support both of us freeloaders, and it��s hard to refuse.��


    ��I can support you too.��

 Chapter 464: Weaving the Future

    Far away, the neon lights of skyscrapers melted into the false firmament��s starry sea. The incessant flow of traffic operated like the veins of the metropolis, while the never-sleeping street lighting knights below carved thick realms of light.


    Brilliance and decadence collided; remnants of an unwilling-to-end old era disguised themselves as the future. Shadows wantonly sucked the desires emitted by the city. Each corner seemed like a monster waiting to devour, burying countless fallen souls made from alcohol and sugary smoke.


    Ashe and Annan leaned against the windowsill, gazing at each other. Half of their bodies were bathed in the room��s lighting, while the other half was cloaked in the city��s darkness. Their eyes flickered, reflecting the ambiguous image of one another.


    ��Good thing Igor reminded me. You��re not thinking of extending our pact verbally, are you?�� Ashe crossed his arms, signaling his refusal. ��If I agreed, wouldn��t the ve pact, with a 101-day term, automatically renew forever?��


    ��No way.�� Annan shook her head. ��Although I have some authority within the Gospel, the pact��s term can only be extended to December 31, 2100.��


    ��That��s still over five hundred years!�� Ashe retreated instinctively. ��By then, the Gospel Kingdom might not even exist. Your descendants could find my grave in the Doomsday wastnd, shout ��Ashe Heath,e forth as per the pact,�� and I��d have to crawl out of hell to continue serving the Dn Family for centuries!��


    ��Impossible. No pact, no matter how powerful, can summon the dead.�� Annan shook her head again. ��Unless I get Harvey to perform necromancy on you, then Ashe, you could be an heirloom for the Dn Family. Damn Igor, ruining my ns.��


    ��Bless Igor for saving us from a wicked woman. He delivered us from evil.��


    Seeing Annan��s frustrated look, Ashe internally breathed a sigh of relief.When Annan abruptly confessed ��I��ll take care of you,�� although he couldn��t help but feel a bit delighted��actually, more than just a bit, but he only allowed himself to admit a little��rationality quickly returned, leaving him feeling rather uneasy.


    His rtionship with Annan was abnormal.


    If it weren��t for Annan, he would have taken Lise and fled long ago. Even if Lise wanted him to rescue the princess in the Tower, he wouldn��t have risked it. It was Annan��s stubborn insistence on executing the n to assassinate the princess that kept them in the underground city.


    Or rather, from the very beginning, it was Annan who wanted to spheme the Gospel and deceive the Weaving Festival, which is why they were now like rats scurrying around the Gospel kingdom. Ashe only wanted to find a ce where he could send a substitute to work, take care of Lise during the day, and venture into the Virtual Realm with the sword Princess and the Witch at night.


    With ��Aurora��s Sorcerer Handbook,�� Ashe felt that bing a legendary sorcerer was just a matter of time. There was no need to go on dangerous adventures; he could just bide his time.


    However, he was still a ve under Annan��s domination. He couldn��t disobey any of hermands, so he had to follow her to the end. If Annan truly liked him, wouldn��t that be like falling in love with his kidnapper? That would be ssic Stockholm Syndrome.


    But in typical stories, it��s usually the kidnapped female protagonist who falls for the male lead. When it happens to him, it seems a bit reversed��


    Thankfully, Annan is a bad woman. Thankfully, Annan is just a bad woman.


    Ashe changed the subject. ��By the way, I��ve already decided on my wish.��


    ��What is your wish?�� Annan asked curiously. ��To enhance your spirit substitute into an all-attributes-maxed super servant that canplete any task for you?��


    ����That��s my secondary wish. If there��s any extra wish capacity, please help me with that, and also add the ability for me to freely set the appearance and gender of the substitute.�� Although Ashe was tempted, he kept his promise to Lise. ��My primary wish is to permanently cancel the ��Ranking of the Unrted.����


    ��Huh?�� Annan was stunned. ��You want to cancel that Gospel ranking list?��


    ��That��s right.�� Ashe nodded, already preparing a usible reason in his mind.


    However, Annan stayed silent for a moment and didn��t ask about the reason for his wish. She simply nodded. ��As long as I obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish, I guarantee your wish wille true.��


    Ashe breathed a sigh of relief; tonight��s mission wasplete. He disclosed Banjeet��s situation to Annan, not only to prevent any tragedies due to such secrecy but also to use this favor to make Annan take his wish seriously��his little n worked!


    He rxed and jokingly asked, ��So, what do you n to do after the Weaving Festival is over? You��re not going to wish to be an angel and leave reality altogether, are you?��


    ��My wish won��t change my abilities in any way,�� Annan shook her head. ��If I��m lucky enough to obtain the Divine Sovereign��s Wish and safely get through the Weaving Festival����


    She paused for a moment, then suddenlyughed. ��How silly, the Weaving Festival isn��t even over yet, what��s the point of thinking about the future now�� We might die in the Royal Pce in just a few days.��


    ��Precisely because we might die in the Royal Pce, we need to think about our future now,�� Ashe said seriously. ��If we do die, at least we can live out the rest of our lives in our imagination. If we don��t die, then this fantasy will serve as a source of courage, and we might even create a miracle.�� ?


    ��The ��future�� is the greatest hope; once you have a future you want to go toward, nothing can stop you, not even mountains of des or seas of fire.�� He smiled. ��In that sense, thinking about the rest of our lives is actually conducting our own Weaving Festival��crafting our future and then striving to achieve it.��


    Annan was taken aback. ��Weaving Festival��?��


    She silently stroked her earring and suddenly asked, ��Do you think the Weaving Festival is a good thing?��


    ��Hmm?�� Ashe pondered for a moment. ��Honestly, the Weaving Festival is something that can guide societal trends and even affect the development of spellcasting��judging it as good or bad might be oversimplifying it, like saying the sun is a good guy or a bad guy�� But if I had to say, it should be a good thing.��


    ��Predicting a nation��s development, technological revolutions, key talents through the ranking list��all of this ensures that the Gospel will only develop faster and better, almost never regressing or stagnating. If it wasn��t for this Weaving Festival predicting a Doomsday disaster, I��d even believe I could see the future of the Gospel reaching for the stars and the sea.��


    ��But what about for the Echoers?�� Annan asked. ��Is it really good for them to know a predestined future in advance?��


    ��It depends on the situation. If the future aligns with what they hoped for, then it��s certainly a good thing; if it��spletely opposite to what they desire, then it can be quite distressing,�� Ashe said, spreading his hands. ��But life can never be perfect; even at a buffet, there are dishes that don��t taste good.��


    ��I don��t see it that way. Whether the future matches my expectations or not, I don��t think it��s a good thing,�� Annan said. ��For example, if the Weaving Festival told me that I would be with you forever, whether I like you or not, I would find it very ufortable.��


    ��If I didn��t like you, that��s one thing. But even if I did like you, I would think: does that mean I��m bound to be with you? I can��t leave, I can��t change, I can��t choose another path in life?��


    ��Being negated by the future is painful, but being affirmed by the future also brings pressure.�� Annan looked at her hands. ��In the end, why isn��t our future something that we can control?��


    ��You��ve been in the Gospel for quite a few days now. I��m actually curious about your thoughts on the Gospel,�� Annan turned to Ashe. ��As someone from an exotd, do you think the Gospel is good? Did the Omniscient Weaver bring the Gospel down because of a deep love for humanity?��


    Ashe remained silent for a while before responding with a question, ��Do you know about the societal system of the Blood Moon Kingdom?��


    ��I do. There��s the Bloodline Prohibition Law, the Blood Moon Tribunal, the Blood Saints and Moonshadow, everyone grows up in orphanages, and biomechanical modifications run rampant,�� Annan sighed. ��It��s like a savage jungle disguised as civilization�� I��m sorry if that sounds offensive.��


    ��No, you summed it up well. The Blood Moon Kingdom is essentially a carefully tended farm by the Blood Moon Sovereign,�� Ashe said. ��In my view, the essence of the Gospel and the Blood Moon Kingdom are the same.��


    ��Huh?�� Annan was taken aback. ��Although I criticize the Omniscient Weaver, isn��t that a bit extreme?��


    ��Although the social systems and culturalndscapes are vastly different, the foundation of both kingdoms stems from the Will of the Divine Sovereign,�� Ashe said. ��The Divine Sovereign established the rules, and so all beings can only live ording to these rules. This rule could be the Bloodline Prohibition Law, or it could be the Gospel system.��


    ��The Divine Sovereign does not love or hate humanity. Even the Blood Moon Sovereign is the same. The Blood Saints and Moonshadow, although they are the ruling ss, are not favored by the Blood Moon Sovereign but are established based on the Bloodline Prohibition Law. In a world where bloodlines are prohibited, only the selfish Long-lived Species can fully exploit their advantages, just like how flies thrive in a toilet. You can��t say that the toilet favors flies, can you? In any other kingdom, these few Long-lived Species would quickly be oppressed by the numerous Short-Lived Species to the point where they��d remain incognito.��


    ��So, you believe that the Divine Sovereign doesn��t care about humanity?�� Annan murmured.


    ��No.�� Ashe shook his head. ��Although the Divine Sovereign neither loves nor hates humanity, they do care about people. Otherwise, there wouldn��t be the Blood Moon Kingdom and the Gospel Kingdom. But they care about all humanity, not just one or two individuals, not just one era, but everyone from the birth of the kingdom to the present.��


    ��If you ask me, hoping that the Divine Sovereign deeply loves humanity is a mistake. The current impartial and non-interfering attitude of the Divine Sovereign is the correct one.��


    ��Why?��


    ��Because love is a gift,�� Ashe nced at her. ��Are humans qualified to respond to the Divine Sovereign��s love? They would just drown in it. Take Vamora, for example; the patriarch of the Six Heraldry loved his nsmen unconditionally, and as a result, they lived indulgently.��


    ��Not necessarily,�� Annan interjected. ��In some ancient myths, there are races favored by the Divine Sovereign who are born mastering spellcasting sects of the silver and even golden realms����


    ��Do you remember when you told me about the ��Gospel Sorcerer�� and the ��Silent Sorcerer��?�� Ashe smiled.


    Annan paused, then understood Ashe��s point. Gospel Sorcerers are those who consult the Gospel for answers whenever they encounter difficulties in their spellcasting sect, while Silent Sorcerers rely on themselves to ovee challenges in their traditional spellcasting sect without ever asking the Gospel for help.


    In the Gospel Kingdom, ��Gospel Sorcerers�� are predominant among One-Winged Sorcerers, but among Two-Winged Sorcerers, 70% are ��Silent Sorcerers,�� and all Sanctuary Sorcerers are ��Silent Sorcerers.��


    ��The Divine Sovereign��s love for a n will only lead to the n��s downfall in the evaluation system for sorcerers,�� Ashe said. ��Because spellcasting is not gold, resources, or production materials that can grow automatically. It is knowledge that requires a lifetime of study and pursuit. If the Divine Sovereign helps sorcerers within their spellcasting sects, it actually reduces their potential and corrodes their knowledge base.��


    ��In this regard, the Omniscient Weaver is actually overly ��indulgent�� towards you all. Do you think the Omniscient Weaver��s approach is correct or wrong? Conversely, if you look at the Bloodline Prohibition Law, don��t you think the Blood Moon Sovereign is trying to create a high-intensitypetitive environment where everyone is equal, allowing people to go further in their journey as sorcerers? Do you consider the Blood Moon Sovereign��s approach correct or wrong?��


    Ashe paused. ��Of course, this is only in the evaluation system for sorcerers. If we��re talking about resident happiness, the Blood Moon Sovereign isn��t even worthy of licking the Omniscient Weaver��s toes����


    Annan immediately covered Ashe��s mouth and hushed him. ��Don��t speak ill of the Divine Sovereign.��


    Ashe nodded and continued, ��So, it��s not that the Divine Sovereign loves humanity deeply, but rather humanity loves the Divine Sovereign. People project their own feelings onto the Divine Sovereign, which makes them believe that the Divine Sovereign loves them.��


    ��When you ask if the Omniscient Weaver loves humanity, what you��re really questioning is not His attitude but whether He is right or wrong.�� He smiled. ��You simply feel that He was wrong, so you no longer love Him, and thus you believe that He doesn��t love humanity.��


    Annan stared nkly at Ashe and suddenly said, ��You really are a Cult Leader. I thought Igor was just ckening your name on purpose.��


    ��You��re not wrong; he does it on purpose,�� Ashe replied irritably. ��In what way do I resemble a Cult Leader?��


    ��In every way.��


    ��Give me an example! Future Ranking examples don��t count!��


    ��There��s a perfect example right in front of you,�� Annan joked. ��I��ve been sessfully brainwashed by you.��


    She touched her earring. ��I will weave the rest of my life well.��


    ��I should go back now.��


    ��I��ll see you out.��


    Annan walked Ashe to the door and reached out to grip the door handle but did not push it open.


    Ashe waited for a moment and then asked curiously, ��What��s wrong? Can��t open it?��


    ��Ashe, do you hate me?��


    Ashe was taken aback.


    ��You probably do hate me,�� the Purple Moth said softly to the door without turning around. ��If I hadn��t captured you before the virtual realm passage, if Cleos and I hadn��t forced you, you would��ve never been caught up in the Whirlpool of the Weaving Festival. You might even have settled down in Azura by now, living a peaceful and happy life.��


    ��Although I��ve always said I treated you all equally, that was just self-satisfying arrogance. You��re all bound by the Pact, so we can never truly be equal in status, let alone the fact that I��ve asked you to partake in this nearly suicidal mission. Harvey is probably already nning how to retaliate against me once this is over.��


    ��I may have my justifications, but what have they got to do with you? A Purple Moth destined to plunge into the fire yet dragging you all along in the mes.��


    ��Your first reaction was ��Is Annan trying to trick me again?�� and yes, I deserve that.��


    ��But.��


    Annan turned to look at Ashe, the green of her eyes shimmering with Flow.


    ��In a few days, the first half of my life will be over,�� she said, her voice trembling slightly. ��We might all die.��


    It was then that Ashe realized she was afraid.


    Or to put it more urately, who among the Funerals wasn��t afraid except for Harvey? Igor never showed his fear and had gone through too many life-and-death adventures to be shaken; Lisepletely trusted Ashe, using that trust to mask her fear; and Ashe himself��


    He��d been thinking about his life after the Weaving Festival these past few days, using hope to fight fear, Lise to counter fear, and Igor to shield against fear.


    Annan was different from them, the escaped convicts. Her previous adventures had always had Banjeet as a safety, and in her work, she��d relied on the Gospel��s godlike perspective. This sphemy Gospel n was the riskiest action of her life; assassinating the Princess was an all-in gamble she had never experienced before.


    But she couldn��t show any fear in front of everyone else; it was her responsibility as a leader.


    Only now did she shed all her disguises and reveal the vulnerability of a female boss.


    ��My question earlier is also my answer after weaving,�� the Purple Moth looked intently at the Cult Leader. ��I��ll ask you again.��


    ��Are you willing to weave the future with me?��


    This time, it wasn��t a joke.


    She was serious.


    There was no way to dodge it now.


    Ashe looked at her beautiful, expectant face, filled with a mix of daring and shyness, and for a moment, he was lost.


    To be honest, he couldn��t think of a reason to refuse. Although Annan wasn��t as wealthy as someone like Yvaren, she was far better off than Ashe, who was prepared to sleep in a cardboard box under a bridge. Annan, living in arge apartment, was already rich enough to meet his daily needs.


    Not to mention, Ashe also had Lise, who was a bit of a burden. Only Igor and Annan were willing to support them. Actually, Ashe had casually mentioned to Igor that once Lise��s life stabilized, he would find a way to make some money. He couldn��t possibly always rely on Igor.


    But Annan��s promise came with no strings attached and even with after-sales service! Since he was already putting himself out there, Ashe couldfortably call his wealthy benefactor ��richdy��!


    So, did he like Annan? First, Annan was a ranked individual in the Azura Beauty Ranking; and her looks and figure are not something a zero-star loser like Ashe canpare to. Secondly, he felt rxed around her, as if they were childhood friends; there was no barrier between them.


    Yes, he did like her, and married life would surely be happy.


    However, however.


    Ashe closed his eyes, and images of many people shed through his mind��parents, siblings, a Bewitcher, and a redhead��


    He opened his eyes and looked at her seriously. The Purple Moth saw the Flowing tenderness in his eyes and immediately understood.


    ��I����


    ��Wait, I want to paint a portrait of you.��

 Chapter 465: Poor Ashe

    Chapter 465: Poor Ashe


    A man dressed in a dark red trench coat sat on a luxurious red leather armchair. He crossed one leg over the other, leaning his left hand against his cheek. With a mask on his face, his unkempt bangs fellzily around him as he gazed out the window at the underground city, his eyes slightly squinted as if he were smiling.


    Annan��s brush moved swiftly, and before long, the painting was already taking shape. However, she frowned slightly. ��Don��t move.��


    ��I can��t hold the same pose for too long,�� Asheined. ��I��ve never worked as a model before.��


    ��But I can��t draw if you keep moving,�� Annan said. ��I have a good idea-Ashe, don��t move!��


    Ashe��s body instantly froze. Annan, satisfied, continued painting andughed, ��It��s a pity the world outside isn��t burning; it would perfectly match the future first ce on the Art Ranking.��


    ��You��re not as mature as you are in the Art Ranking,�� Ashe said. ��But I��m pretty much the same across the different rankings.��


    ��No way. You��re more wickedly charming in the Art Ranking, more arrogant and boisterous in the Family Ranking, and more like yourself in the Ranking of Schemes. Overall, the ��you�� in the first three rankings gets closer to the real you, but starting with the Happiness Ranking, things get weird. In the Evil Arts Ranking, you even seem righteous.��


    ��Now that you mention it, it��s weird. I appear in all these rankings, but I don��t get any ce.��


    ��Aren��t you ranked with me? Though as part of my work�� Come to think of it, we weren��t very familiar with each other back then. Why did the Gospel weave a future where I��d be painting you?����It means the Gospel knew you were already captivated by my good looks����


    ��Are you sure you want to say that to someone on the Azura Beauty Ranking? I��m suddenly tempted to paint a nude portrait to confirm your looks.��


    ��Sorry, I was being too cocky. Please forgive me.��


    After a moment��s hesitation, Ashe couldn��t resist asking, ��I��m really curious, when did you start liking me? Never mind, don��t answer that. If you can��t recall, it��ll be pretty embarrassing for me����


    Annan said nonchntly, ��From the beginning, back in the Underground Hall.��


    Ashe was shocked. ����(�á㧥��;)�� What? Was it really love at first sight?��


    ��Of course not, I was just curious about you and started paying attention to you,�� Annanughed. ��When I saw Igor and Harvey waiting for your decision, when I saw you were willing to ept Lise, when I heard you say in the locker room that you would wait until the 101 days were over before deciding whether to take revenge on me����


    ��You actually installed a listening device in the locker room!��


    ��My home doesn��t count as eavesdropping,�� Annan snorted. ��And when I saw you taking the pain yourself rather than following my orders to target someone else, when I saw youforting Lise even while on the run, when I saw you standing up for me in front of Qenna, when I saw you injure your own hand to save Lise, when I saw you hoping Igor would find happiness����


    ��And when I saw you slow down near water puddles while riding a motorcycle, when I saw you think about Banjeet��s safety. All these things umted bit by bit, forming my good impression of you.��


    ��You have a great memory! I��ve forgotten half of that stuff,�� Ashe said. ��But I feel like you might have idealized me in your memory����


    ��Of course I have,�� Annanughed. ��Now, I think even your eyebrows are cute. How could I not idealize you? Alright, the painting is done.��


    Annan turned the drawing board toward Ashe. Unlike the first ce on the Art Ranking, it was a simple sketch. The background was left nk, and the painting technique was far less refined and grand than what the Art Ranking portrayed. The character didn��t appear as wickedly charming.


    But the person in the drawing had vivid eyebrows and eyes, with soft features full of flowing love. It didn��t look like a mere painting; it looked like a confession of love.


    Ashe sighed softly. ��Annan, I����


    ��You know, unless it��s work-rted, I never ask about the Gospel,�� Annan said, sitting on hisp and summoning her Gospel Book. ��But tonight, I��ll make an exception.��


    ��Gospel, who is the most suitable lover for me?��


    Annan showed Ashe the opened Gospel Book. The name ��Ashe Heath�� glowed faintly invender light on the white page. ��See?��


    Annan��s words felt like a necromantic miracle, draining all the vitality out of Ashe. The carefully chosen words in his mind now felt unbearably heavy. The more she acted this way, the more ufortable Ashe felt. He struggled to speak, ��Annan, can you give me some time to think����


    ��No.��


    Suddenly, Annan wrapped her arms around his neck, pulled off his mask, and kissed him, pressing her lips against his. The warm sensation spread from his lips to his mind, and his vision was filled with her intensely possessive eyes.


    Huh?


    Huhhh??


    Huhhhhh???


    Ashe wanted to move, but the problem was he��d been instructed by Annan earlier not to move, and he couldn��t defy the pact��s restrictions! The only parts he could move were his teeth and tongue. Was he supposed to bite back��


    Tch.


    Ashe felt the delicate, fragrant little tongue awkwardly trying to pry open his teeth, like a piece of jelly trying to jump in on its own. Seeing the stubborn determination in Annan��s eyes, something inside him softened. His solid barrier cracked just a bit, and the enemy forces poured in, leaving the defenders helpless. The two forces intertwined, sweat mingling, and then the enemy even managed to pull the defending forces out of their barrier and devour them entirely within their territory.


    Earlier, Ashe had thought Annan was nothing like Qenna, but now he was utterly convinced they were absolutely mother and daughter!


    Both were just as forceful and domineering!


    After a long while, their lips parted, breaths low and warm, as if they were exchanging heartfelt secrets. Just as his pounding heart began to calm down, Ashe heard Annan whisper softly in his ear, ��Meet my desires.��


    ��Hold me.��


    ��y with me.��


    Suddenly, their Gospel Books popped out, and Ashe realized he had somehow rolled onto the bed. Annan nced at the glowing Gospel Book and said, ��The Gospel��s weaving speed has increased�� but the Gospel Ranking can be checked anytime. Right now, you should only look at me.��


    ��Weave me.��


    A boss at work, a ve master in the pact, making such unreasonable demands��Ashe felt like he was reaching his limit!


    Bam! Bam! Bam!


    ��Dad! Dad! I know you��re in there,e out!��


    Annan and Ashe exchanged nces. The Purple Moth pushed him off, sat up, and straightened her robe. Then she grabbed the baffled cult leader and led him to the door, pushing him out to Lise. She hooked her arm around his neck and whispered in his ear:


    ��We��re done for tonight. We��ll continue this after the Weaving Festival.�� Annan��s warm breath caressed Ashe��s earlobe. ��This is the future I��m weaving.��


    ��But����


    ��No buts. Remember, your pact ends on August 15th. At the current pace, we need to act by the 20th at thetest. So, after the Weaving Festival, I��ll still have at least 55 days to deal with you. By then, we might even have a child.��


    ��I��m a relentless head of the firm. You don��t think I was asking for your permission earlier, do you? Silly boy.��


    Annan ced a quick peck on Ashe��s cheek and then waved him off. ��Good night.��


    Once the door was shut, Annan dove onto the bed. After a moment of stillness, she began to roll around, her hands holding her face, which felt as if it were on fire. Her heart pounded, and her breaths came in uneven spurts.


    ��The future is the greatest hope����


    She turned to look at the newly painted portrait, tilting her head and studying it for a while. A small smile yed on her lips, and the anxiety knitting her brows gradually eased. Her fear of death finally abated a little.


    ��The first half of my life might be ending,�� she whispered, ��but now I look forward to the second half starting soon.��


    Outside, Ashe and Lise stood staring at each other, wide-eyed.


    After a moment of contemtion, Lise turned and began walking away. Ashe called out, ��Where are you going?��


    ��To find Aunt Bukin.��


    ��Why?��


    ��To discuss Annan bing my stepmom.��


    ��Why would you discuss that with him?��


    Ashe pulled Lise back, crouching down sheepishly. ��How did you know I was here?��


    ��Because Aunt Annan sent me a message just now,�� Lise replied with a nk expression.


    Ashe was momentarily stunned before realizing Annan��s cunning n!


    Damn, she used a honey trap on him, leveraging the future after the Weaving Festival to spur him to work even harder on the mission! But it was an open conspiracy. Even though Ashe understood the setup, he couldn��t help but be a little swayed��actually more than a little, but he only allowed himself to admit to being a little swayed.


    Poor Ashe, yed like a pawn in the hands of a crafty woman.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 466: Bad Luck

    Sonya was ying in a match.


    However, it wasn��t the Meteor Trial but the Celestial Pce Trial, a five-person team battle representing their school. The roles were divided into Vanguard, vanguard, Center, Sub-chief, and chief. Each person could onlypete once, and the lineup had to be submitted before the league started, without any changes allowed mid-tournament.


    To avoid scenarios where a top-tierpetitor faces a lower-tier one, which would harm the spirit and viewership of thepetition, the Celestial Pce Trial didn��t purely focus on win-loss records. Each match earned 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 points respectively. Thus, even if a team lost the first three matches, the 4+5=9 points from the Sub-chief and chief could still reverse the situation. This meant that schools had to arrange theirpetitors from weakest to strongest; otherwise, they would be vulnerable to aeback.


    Being a singlebat event, the restraint among different Spellcasting Sects was particrly evident. Bad luck could indeed lead to a fire sorcerer getting severely beaten by a water sorcerer. Therefore, although Sonya was the chief in Friendly Matches, she could only serve as the third Center in officialpetitions.


    The Sub-chief was her familiar senior sister, Leoni, while the chief was a fourth-year student, Negus Barver, once heralded as the ��Swordgrass.��


    Like Sonya and Leoni, Negus was a student of the Sanctuary sorcerer ��Rainstorm Singer�� Valenteen. He had remained low-profile over the past year at Swordflower College because he spent most of his time adventuring in the Abyss��s third and fourthyers. If it weren��t for the College League, he likely wouldn��t have returned to the surface. He was a pure battle sorcerer.


    Negus bing the chief in the Celestial Pce Trial was a natural choice. He had already stepped into the Time Continent in his third year andpletely formed his Golden Wings within a year and a half. He also had multiple Abyss Adventure experiences, making his qualifications andbat prowess unmatched by Sonya. There were rumors that Negus had already been reserved by the Royal Family��s Starburst Guard and would be a Sword Noble immediately after graduation-the lowest noble title in the House of Nobles, the starting point for the ruling ss of Stars, and truly a person with a bright future.


    As for who would be the Sub-chief between Sonya and Leoni, Professor Trozan mentioned that there had been debates at the school level. Both had be two-wings sorcerers around the same time, and Sonya had even defeated Leoni head-on. However, they ultimately chose the safer option, Leoni.


    After all, in the Celestial Pce Trial, the lineup can��t be adjusted once submitted. If a participant encounters an opponent who restrains their abilities, they��ll have no leverage to fight back. While Sonya is indeed stronger, Leoni, with her three years of sorcerer experience, has much richerbat experience and a far more developed spirit systempared to Sonya. Hence, she has a lower chance of being restrained by opposingpetitors.Put it this way, Sonya still doesn��t have a good solution to deal with gun sorcerers, whereas Leoni is an anomaly��known as ��The Orange Dancer,�� she can dodge a gun sorcerer��s lock-on with her speed. In fact, her speed alone allows her to contend with most sorcerers.


    Sonya hasn��t been a sorcerer for long, and she��s been toofortable in the Virtual Realm. She only needs to focus on burst damage, with Observer and the Witch handling everything else, which inevitably leads to shorings.


    In the chaotic battles of the Meteor Trial, she could rely on herbat instincts to find opportunities, but in one-on-one spellcasting matches, her weaknesses get infinitely magnified. It makes sense that Swordflower College didn��t select her as the Sub-chief.


    In this year��s Celestial Pce Trial, except for the Vanguard who is a silver sorcerer, all other members of Swordflower College are golden sorcerers, marking the best lineup the school has had in nearly five years. By now, it��s clear that while Swordflower College has decent faculty and ranks high, its cultivation rate is far below other schools of the same level. They couldn��t even field five two-wings sorcerers for the Celestial Pce Trial. This is mainly because Swordflower College is the top choice for children of wealthy merchants and nobility who couldn��t get into Truth College.


    Simply put, the student quality is too poor.


    It��s not that these studentsck talent, but their college life is filled with balls, socializing, and entertainment, leaving them no time to study spellcasting. In Sonya��s dormitory, students like Engulite, who focused solely on practicing swordsmanship, were the exceptions.


    Sonya chose Swordflower College initially because of its advantage in meeting noble children.


    Over the past five years, Swordflower College couldn��t even break into the Top Sixteen of the Celestial Pce Trial. This year, reaching the Top Eight is all thanks to the sudden rise of Sonya and Leoni. Apart from Sonya��s uniqueness, Leoni quickly elevated her spirit system to the two-wings level as soon as she stepped onto the Time Continent. Coupled with her ��rhythm swordsmanship�� at its peak during the golden phase, she easily surpassed other schools�� fourth-year students inbat strength.


    With this lineup, Swordflower College could hold its own against other schools. Losing the Vanguard and vanguard matches wouldn��t matter much because the team would almost certainlye back to win thest three matches, aiming for a solid fourth ce or even second ce.


    However, when the match draw was announced, the whole team from Swordflower College fell silent.


    Boom!


    When the blood-red sword light, curved like a crescent moon, descended, the thick Concrete Wall shattered instantly. The green-haired young man hiding behind it immediately raised his hand, ��I surrender.��


    ��Sigh, such bad luck,�� he said with a sigh, ��If it had been The Orange Dancer or a water sorcerer, I definitely would have won. But to face the Red-Haired Sword Princess�� I��m the only one who lost, and now I��ll beughed at for a long time when I get back����


    Though blunt, Sonya knew he was telling the truth. As a sorcerer specializing in both earth and wood spells, his powerful earth spell, the Defensive Miracle ��Concrete,�� could withstand gun attacks. Additionally, he possessed an extremely strong spell called the Senlo Miracle ��Spirit-Siphoning Vines��!


    Currently, the whole arena was covered with Spirit-Siphoning Vines, which had a simple yet devastating effect: they drained spellforce from other sorcerers to bolster his own!


    In his previous battles, he had used thebination of Spirit-Siphoning Vines and Concrete to wear down his opponents until they had no strength left. What was remarkable was that the Spirit-Siphoning Vines were not weak against fire, but rather against toxic or dark spells with corrosive properties, making it difficult for him to meet his match.


    If it had been Leoni or Negus, they might have been worn down by him because his Concrete Wall��s defense was terrifyingly robust. However, his opponent happened to be Sonya, whose burst attack capability was unparalleled. When Sonya broke through his defenses with three consecutive ��Blood Moon Shattered Lake�� attacks, he had no choice but to gracefully admit defeat and surrender.


    The audience erupted in cheers, though not overwhelmingly so. When Sonya returned to the yers�� area, there wasn��t much tion; only Professor Trozan and Leoni gave her a nod of acknowledgment.


    She went over and patted Leoni on the shoulder. ��Let��s go for a drinkter?��


    ��No, thanks. You used to always turn down my invitations to rush off to the Virtual Realm, so tonight I��ll use the same reason to refuse you,�� Leoni stood up and smiled, ��After this match, I��m sure I��ll be motivated to dive into the Virtual Realm. Thank you, you at least made our defeat not quite so embarrassing.��


    Sonya watched as Leoni walked onto the field,


    The host��s voice rang out: ��Next is the Sub-chief Battle, featuring Leoni Vickt from Swordflower College, against����


    ��Aisha Maltz from Truth College!��


    Swordflower College��s opponent in the Celestial Pce Trial Top Eight was Truth College!


    The pinnacle of all universities, the nightmare that has dominated the College League for decades!


    No matter how much Swordflower College hated the draw results, there was nothing they could do. Some school had to face obliteration at the hands of Truth College. Why shouldn��t it be them?


    The Vanguard Battle and Forward Battle were practically instant defeats. Although Sonya won one match, no one believed Swordflower College had any hope.


    Truth College��s Sub-chief and Chief were overwhelmingly powerful and insurmountable.


    On the arena, Aisha said from a distance to Leoni, ��Nice to meet you. I��ve long wanted to see the renowned move ��Rhythm Melody�� of the rhythm sword saint. They say Rhythm Melody needs three strikes to fully unleash its power?��


    ��That��s correct.��


    ��Then I��ll let you attack three times. I hope you don��t disappoint me.��


    Facing Aisha��s dismissive words, Leoni solemnly nodded, ��I won��t disappoint you.��


    ��Very well,�� Aisha smiled, raising a shield with her left hand and pulling out a handgun with her right.


    At the host��s signal, ��Begin!�� Leoni instantly vanished, leaving only a fleeting orange streak. Aisha, however, stood leisurely in ce, not using any Defensive Miracle and even distractedly gazing at the starry night sky.


    ng!


    Suddenly, Aisha swung her shield backward, perfectly blocking Leoni��s attack. Though the first strike didn��t seed, Leoni quickly adjusted her angle andunched a side attack��


    sh!


    Although there wasn��t time to maneuver the shield, Aisha effortlessly leaned to one side, narrowly avoiding Leoni��s sh. The longsword merely cut off some of Aisha��s hair!


    Leoni disappeared again, and after a brief adjustment, the third strike of Rhythm Melody descended from above, its golden sword light falling like a meteor!


    ng!


    Aisha��s block was so sharp it was almost piercing to the ears. Not only was Aisha unharmed, but Leoni was sent flying, rolling several times on the ground. The Orange Dancer tried to stand but found her legs too weak, falling to her knees and coughing up a mouthful of blood.


    When Leoni looked up, she saw Aisha pointing a handgun at her head.


    She smiled bitterly, ��I lost.��


    There were no cheers or boos from the audience, just an expected silence.


    Aisha was proficient in both the Prophecy Sect and the Shielding Sect.


    Shields are actually quitemon among sorcerers; in the early stages of the Virtual Realm, everyone conjures a shield to block attacks like those from a de Fish Dragon. However, the Shielding Sect is very niche because it specializes in defense, and other sects can achieve simr defensive effects through their own Defensive Miracles, reducing the need for shields.


    The biggest advantage of the Shielding Sect lies in its miracles of ��Perfect Block�� and ��Perfect Counterattack.�� By mastering the timing, a block can entirely neutralize an enemy��s attack��sometimes even reflecting it back at the attacker.


    However, mastering this timing is extremely challenging, with only a fleeting window of opportunity. The enemy��s attacks are unpredictable and varied, making it very hard to consistently achieve. Most Shielding Sect sorcerers can, at best, only manage a ��Normal Block�� or ��Normal Counterattack,�� which is less effective than other Defensive Miracles, thus leading to the Shielding Sect��s unpoprity.


    However, ��Unbeaten Star�� Aisha showed everyone that whenbined with the Prophecy Sect, the Shielding Sect��s powers can be terrifyingly potent.


    Fire, Water, Wind, Earth, Swords, Gunmanship, Nunchaku, Fist-w�� she can perfectly block any attack. Since her debut, she has never been defeated, nor even injured! And whenever an enemyunches a strong attack, she uses a Perfect Counterattack to reflect the attack back in full, sometimes even stunning the opponent!


    Leoni was defeated because the third strike of Rhythm Melody was perfectly countered, causing her to bear the full power of her own miracle. Even if Aisha wasn��t pointing the handgun at her, Leoni was too weakened to continue fighting!


    Of course, Aisha wasn��t invincible. Take Sonya��s earlier opponent, for example; a defensive and multi-targetbination like ��Concrete�� and ��Spirit-Siphoning Vines�� could slowly wear Aisha out. But that��s when her handgunes into y��it��s not an ordinary standard-issue handgun, but the Spellforce-powered Stargazer Model 85, an Artifact Spirit gun whose power increases with the input spellforce.


    Because it holds no pre-sealed miracles and requires the sorcerer to expend spellforce, such tools are allowed in the College League.


    This handgun, of course,cks the destructive power of a dedicated gun sorcerer, but if Aisha infuses all her golden spellforce into a single bullet, it can still punch a hole through a wall of Concrete. Although the hole would close quickly and dodging the shot would be an option, who can guarantee they can evade a surprise attack from a prophecy sorcerer?


    If you don��t attack her, she��ll shoot you; if you do attack, she��ll counter and kill you.


    Fortunately, Aisha struggles in multi-person battles; otherwise, she would have dominated the Meteor Trial!


    Watching Leoni being carried off for medical treatment, Sonya refocused on the arena. Compared to facing the prophecy sorcerer Aisha, the next match was the one Sonya was most concerned about.


    Because the two sorcerers about to face off were both Top Eight contenders from the Meteor Trial! If Sonya wanted to capture a meteor, she would inevitably have to face them eventually!


    ��And now, for the highly anticipated Chief Battle, representing Swordflower College, Negus Barver, versus����


    ��Truth College, Dimy Vlozrada!��

 Chapter 467: I Am No Longer Two-Wings

    Chapter 467: I Am No Longer Two-Wings


    Not only did the crowd from both schools erupt in thunderous cheers, but other spectators also apuded as well. Amid the excited crowd, the calm Felix stood out. She gripped her gloved left hand tightly with her right hand.


    A handsome young man with blond hair stepped onto the field, d in tinumbat attire that made him look like a prince on a parade��no different from a prince, considering he was the eldest son of the Stargazer Duke. He waved to the audience, instantly receiving a wave of frenzied cheers and apuse.


    Dimy, a fourth-year student at Truth College, the vice-president of the Student Council at Truth College, and heir to the Vlozrada Family, had individually won the Meteor Trial, led his team to win the Stars Trial, and represented his school to win the Celestial Pce Trial inst year��s College League. He was the only person in the past ten years to win all three Trials!


    He was the nightmare of every college student in Gxia over the past four years��a wall too high to climb, a figure too distant to chase.


    Compared to Dimy, Negus looked as if he had just been fished out of water��his hair wet and resembling noodles. He wasn��t even wearingbat attire, just some old abyss armor. But no one underestimated him because he had narrowly lost to Dimy in the semi-finals of thest Meteor Trial. Even if he came wearing flip-flops, he would still be considered unique.


    ��Long time no see, Negus,�� Dimy said. ��I heard your team recently conquered the fifthyer of the abyss, ��Molten Steel Abyss.�� Outstanding.��


    What!?


    The audience buzzed with astonishment, including Lois and Engulite. Adelle was a bit confused. ��Is Molten Steel Abyss really that formidable?��


    ��It��s not just about being formidable�� You definitely didn��t pay attention in Abyss Common Sense ss, did you?�� Lois replied. ��Molten Steel Abyss is the most treacherous area in the fifthyer of the abyss. It��s filled with boiling molten steel, with temperatures exceeding 1500 degrees. To conquer this abyss, you must kill the Guardian in the center of Molten Steel Lake����Adelle was stunned. ��So that means you have to fly over for an aerial battle?��


    ��The Guardian in the abyss isn��t foolish. If a sorcerer is in the air, it will directly create a steel tsunami to drown the invader,�� Engulite added. ��Typically, one would enter Molten Steel Lake and engage the Guardian inbat.��


    ��But at such high temperatures, won��t one be burned to ashes upon entering?��


    ��More than just being incinerated, it would cause a liquid phase explosion,�� Lois exined. ��The density of molten steel is seven times that of the human body. Your shattered remains would float on the surface of Molten Steel Lake�� However, because of the extremely high temperature of the molten steel, water sorcerers could potentially traverse Molten Steel Lake.��


    ��Why?��


    ��I won��t go into detailed principles, but simply put, when water encounters a high-temperature substance far exceeding its boiling point, some of the liquid will violently boil and evaporate, forming a gaseous protectiveyer that separates it from the outside. If used correctly, a sorcerer can rely on this gaseous protectiveyer to cross Molten Steel Lake safely! That��s why a water sorcerer can conquer Molten Steel Abyss!��


    ��The Guardian is not weak. A water sorcerer alone can��t handle it; they must rely on their teammates,�� Engulite said admiringly. ��Not only does Negus trust himself, but his teammates also entrust their lives to him. That��s the only way to conquer Molten Steel Abyss!��


    The mor of the audience didn��t affect the tense atmosphere on the field. Negus looked at Dimy expressionlessly. ��You sure know a lot.��


    ��With you as my opponent, I have to gather all the Intelligence I can. How could I afford any negligence?��


    ��Why didn��t you participate in the Stars Trial?��


    ��My team members have their own aspirations, and we couldn��t gather together,�� Dimy shrugged. ��In my opinion, you have at least a top-four spot in this Stars Trial, and you might even win. But you should watch out for my junior brothers�� team. They are not only adorable but also strong.��


    ��Hmph, those small fries don��t concern me. My only target is you, Dimy,�� Negus sneered coldly. ��I originally nned to get my revenge in the Meteor Trial, but since the opportunity hase, I��ll make sure you lose twice in a row.��


    ��I��m looking forward to it,�� Dimy smiled. ��You won��t disappoint me.��


    At the word ��start�� from the announcer, Dimy ced his hand on his sword hilt but made no move. Negus��s face contorted with anger as he yelled, ��Still so confident, huh? Rxed and waiting for me to make the first move, then breaking all my spells before defeating me? Hmm? Such a detestable disy of showmanship!��


    ��But this time, I won��t give you any chance.�� Negus crossed his arms and shed viciously. The sharp ring on his index finger cut through the arteries in his wrist, and blood gushed out like water from a faucet.


    The Blood Spell Sect�� Negus��s mentor, the ��Rainstorm Singer�� Valenteen, frowned slightly. The Star Miracles Directory doesn��t offer any training in Blood Spells. That��s almost exclusively the domain of the Blood Moon Kingdom�� Could it be a legacy from vampires in the Virtual Realm?


    In no time, the entire arena filled with Negus��s blood. With a loud shout, all of the blood floated in the air and formed countless blood swords, all aimed at Dimy, leaving scarcely any space!


    ��Swords formed from blood���� Dimy curiously asked, ��It doesn��t look like they��re meant for a simple sh, are they?��


    ��Of course not,�� Negus replied. ��This is a Composite Miracle using blood water. Although the blood is propelled by my spirit, it is still my blood, meaning I have far greater control over it than over water.��


    Dimy nodded. ��Blood Spells and Water Spells do make for a highlypatible Sect.��


    ��Stop stalling!�� Negus shouted, baring his teeth. ��Because of that, I can also cast high-damage miracles that require close contact using these blood swords. Care to guess which miracle I��ve integrated into them?��


    ��Let me guess, it��s your favorite ��Exploding Red Lotus,�� isn��t it?�� Dimy surveyed the area. ��So if even one of these swords touches me, the water in my body will boil, my skin will redden and burst, just like a red lotus bloom? Hmm, but with a Death-Prevention miracle in ce, my head and heart should remain intact.��


    ��Hasn��t anyone told you your smugness is annoying?�� Negus replied coldly. ��And by the way, I��ve added ��High-frequency Water des�� to a few of these swords. Even Defensive Miracles won��t stand a chance.��


    ��Dimy, this is the grand finale I��ve prepared for you��my 25-meter radius ��Red Lotus Sword Formation.�� Prepare to pay for your arrogance!��


    While Negus exined his miracle, he not only terrified the majority of the audience but even moved the Sanctuary sorcerers.


    ��So powerful,�� Sonya couldn��t help but sigh. ��Unless I defeat Senior Brother Negus first, I��ll have no choice but to surrender if he sessfully casts this move.��


    ��If this miracle gets added to the Star Miracles Directory, it will at least be ranked in the True Rainbow Upper-tier,�� Trozanmented from nearby. ��Even entering the Radiant Rainbow Lower-tier isn��t out of the question.��


    Radiant Rainbow!


    Sonya couldn��t help but click her tongue in awe. Although she had recently created the ��Blood Moon Shattered Lake,�� it was only a Radiant Golden Lower-tier miracle. But what does Radiant Rainbow mean? It��s an upper-tier miracle even Sanctuary sorcerers yearn for!


    The critical point is, Negus is just a two-wing sorcerer!


    Creating a Radiant Rainbow Miracle as a two-wing sorcerer!


    This stunning talent made Sonya, who had been feeling a bitcenttely, realize there are always people more skilled out there. That tiny bit of burgeoning arrogance was instantly stuffed back down to her ankles.


    Thinking of this, Sonya turned her attention to Negus��s opponent. Honestly, she was more interested in Dimy. Besides being Felix��s older brother, Gxia��s most famous noble scion, he was also a swordsmanship practitioner specializing in the Vibration Sword.


    As a vige girl curious about the full prowess of the Vlozrada family��s Vibration Sword system, she, being somewhat of a wild offshoot of that lineage, naturally wanted to know if the main family��s techniques harbored any hidden secrets.


    But given the current situation, Dimy seemed likely to be taken down in one swift stroke.


    ��Wait,�� Sonya suddenly realized something. ��If we win both the Center Battle and the Chief Battle, Truth College will lose, won��t they?��


    If they won the Chief Battle, Swordflower College��s score would be 3+5=8, eliminating Truth College with its 1+2+4=7!


    For nearly ten years, Truth College had been the unchallenged champion of the Celestial Pce Trial, only to potentially be knocked out of the Top Eight by Swordflower College this time!?


    Other participants from Swordflower College couldn��t contain their excitement either. ��No way, are we actually going to win?�� ��Serves them right for underestimating Senior Brother Negus!�� ��Truth College, your luck just ran out this time!��


    However, Professor Trozan remained solemn, still watching the match intently.


    ��Perhaps it��s not that simple.��


    ��You certainly haven��t disappointed me, Negus,�� Dimy said with a smile. ��In that case, I will also give my all and not let you down.��


    ��Enough with the pretty words!�� Negus roared. ��Scream, wail, and then die for me! 144 Red Lotus Swords, annihte my enemies!��


    As the blood swords swarmed toward Dimy, the blonde swordsman finally drew his sword.


    Then, with one swing.


    Shing��


    It was like a bell tolling from a distant shore, sending a visceral shockwave through the hearts of every spectator. Then, they saw a sphere.


    A spatial crystal ball enveloping the entire arena.


    It was as if a spherical segment of space had been excised, with no connection between the inside and the outside. Within the sphere, all the blood swords were annihted, and the entire area was cleared out an inch deep, the ground covered with dense Sword Marks.


    Snap!


    As the space returned to normal, blood burst from Negus��s entire body, but his head and heart were shielded by a glowing light, indicating that he had activated a Death-Prevention Miracle.


    The spectator stands fell silent, and the entire arena was hushed.


    Until a cautious voice broke the silence: ��Annihtion Vibration?��


    Sonya waspletely bewildered. She turned to Trozan beside her and asked, ��Professor, was that��?��


    ��Annihtion Vibration,�� Trozan replied with a grim expression. ��A Radiant Rainbow Upper-tier Miracle from the Vlozrada legacy. It appears to be a single sh, but in reality, itpresses the entire space into a single line, shing every location within the space with one strike.��


    She paused. ��This miracle requires spatial slicing, with a minimum Spatial Sect requirement of Silver-tier. This is why only Sanctuary sorcerers can learn it.��


    Just as the Time Sect��s sole training ground is the Time Continent, the Spatial Sect��s official learning site within the Virtual Realm is the thirdyer, the Distant Sky Domain. No matter how talented one is in spatial abilities, entering the Spatial Sect can only happen at the Distant Sky Domain.


    But this means��


    Negus, now a bloodied figure, gritted his teeth against the immense pain and lifted his head to look at Dimy, who had approached him. ��You�� you��re no longer�� a two-wing sorcerer����


    Dimy picked him up and carried him toward the medical station at the edge of the arena, smiling as he said:


    ��Two-wings? I haven��t been that in a long time.��

 Chapter 468: The Witch and the Observers Oddity

    Even after two hours, Sonya, who had descended into the Virtual Realm, still couldn��t recover from her shock.


    Now, the entire Gxia�� no, all the Stars were chanting Dimy��s name!


    All the citizens watching the live broadcast of the League witnessed the birth of yet another Star Sword Saint!


    What is the concept of a Sanctuary sorcerer?


    Her teacher, Professor Trozan, is only a Sanctuary sorcerer!


    You have to know that Swordflower College has only four Sanctuary professors, yet it has the most Sanctuary sorcerers aside from Truth College. Other colleges generally have two Sanctuary sorcerers, some even just one �C but in this respect, Swordflower College is often criticized by other colleges because it offers Sanctuary sorcerers ��high pay with little work.�� For example, Professor Trozan has been researching spellcasting on her own and just casually took on two students this year. What��s the difference between this and freeloading off Sanctuary sorcerers!?


    Price war! Unfairpetition! Market imbnce!


    However, Swordflower College has deep pockets; they don��t care about theints of others while they continue to support their sorcerers. But this also shows how precious Sanctuary sorcerers are �C if Sonya bes a Sanctuary sorcerer, Swordflower College would definitely be willing to spend arge sum of money annually to indulge her!


    In a mundane world where legends are absent, Sanctuary sorcerers are the strongest power that ordinary people can witness, the embodiment of miracles, the epitome of spellcasting!It might seem like they only need to find the Rainbow Tail to be a Sanctuary sorcerer, but Sonya knows very well that even if they are lucky enough to sneak into the Distant Sky Domain, she would only be a fake Sanctuary sorcerer, a flimsy fa?ade of gilded garbage.


    If silver represents talent and gold represents genius, then a Sanctuary sorcerer represents the theoretical limit of extreme talent, diligence, and resources. As for legends, as their name suggests, they are irreplicable legends.


    Although the vige girl��s current swordsmanship sect has Golden level and seems almost at the threshold of Sanctuary, it��s this ��onest step�� that leaves countless swordsmanship geniuses forever stranded on the Time Continent, with little hope of glimpsing the vista of Spatial Swordsmanship.


    Let��s take a simple example: the faculty hierarchy at Swordflower College is ranked as Assistant, Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor. The basic requirement to be an assistant is to fully condense the Golden Wings, officially making them two-wings. Except for anomalies like Sonya, the average sorcerer takes two to three years to condense the Golden Wings. During this time, they usually can push their main sect to the limits of the golden realm.


    An assistant is already very close to the Sanctuary level, yet there are still three more ranks above them, each representing a step closer to the Sanctuary. Even this ��little gap�� is broken down into four levels among the two-wings sorcerers, showing how meticulous andpetitive they are.


    Even though Sonya diligently practices Swordsmanship during the day and has the Observer feeding her Experience Orbs and amander handbook at night, she doesn��t dare guarantee that she can advance to the Sanctuary within three years.


    For Sanctuary seeds like Sonya, Leoni, and Negus, whopleted the silver routes and golden paths in less than four years, the expectation is for them to advance to the Sanctuary within twenty years. ording to statistics, the ��germination rate�� of Sanctuary seeds is less than 30%, meaning if one out of the three like Sonya steps into the Distant Sky Domain, it would be considered a significant sess for Swordflower College��s education efforts.


    It��s hard to describe the gap between the Sanctuary and the golden realm directly, so let��s use the color of the virtual wings as a metaphor: golden virtual wings are just gold, while Sanctuary virtual wings are a gradient rainbow. Not mentioning the countless derivations between different colors, just the seven colors of the rainbow alone signify that the knowledge quantity at the Sanctuary level is seven times that of the golden realm, and this knowledge must be fully integrated and mastered to the point of seamless change like a rainbow to be consideredpetent.


    Most geniuses take three years to elevate their Sect Realm to the peak of the golden level, so multiplying that by seven gives twenty-one years, making the twenty-year development period for Sanctuary seeds seem very rigorous.


    Of course, society is different from school; ��effort�� and ��achievement�� are not necessarily linked. Inparison, the choice of Spellcasting Sect significantly influences one��s fate. Battle sorcerers can only chase monsters�� filth in the Abyss, while creation sorcerers can earn a fortune within thefort of a bright, cozy workshop. Even a supreme sect like prophecy, with just silver wings, can hold a status far surpassing those with Twin Wings of silver and gold.


    Sanctuary sorcerers, however, have no such worries because they all master a top-tier spellcasting branch: the Spatial Sect!


    The Distant Sky Domain is different from the Time Continent. A sorcerer may have a chance to enter the Time Sect on the Time Continent, but most never truly understand time. If Sonya hadn��t had her Adventure in the Amnesia Cabin, she wouldn��t grasp the Time Sect teachings even if she soaked in the Golden Flow����using the Golden Flow to understand time�� is a traditional practice for two-wings sorcerers. If you haven��t nearly drowned in the Golden Flow ten times, you can��t im you have seriously studied the Time Sect.


    But in the Distant Sky Domain, every sorcerer must get initiated into the Spatial Sect; otherwise, they can��t even open their Sanctuary to explore the Virtual Realm! Essentially, a Sanctuary is the manifestation of a sorcerer��s knowledge in the Spatial Sect!


    The advantages of the Spatial Sect inbat are well known, but in creating artifacts, any Sanctuary sorcerer, after some basic training, can start producing spatial artifacts. And spatial artifacts are always in high demand��they��re like tactical weapons controlling advanced production resources.


    Before meeting the Observer, Sonya��s dream was to be a charming two-wings water sorcerer; after meeting the Observer, she dared to dream bigger, longing to be a revered Star Sword Saint.


    As for bing a legend�� she doesn��t doubt the Observer��s ability to guide her into the fourthyer of the Virtual Realm, but just entering it and having legendary spellforce doesn��t automatically make one a legendary sorcerer.


    She knows her limit is the Sanctuary level.


    Or rather, once she reaches the Sanctuary, she won��t push herself further.


    Her life isn��t solely about Swordsmanship. Reaching the Sanctuary would ensure financial freedom, elevate her social status, and allow her to live carefree. Then, she could pursue the things she loves, like bing a performer or Songstress, finding love, starting a family, or even researching how to travel to other kingdoms.


    Or perhaps researching how to perform the Miracle of bringing others into the Stars Kingdom.


    Ah! I really want to be a Sanctuary sorcerer! Why do those nobles born with silver spoons living the high life get to be Sanctuary sorcerers? Shouldn��t they be wasting away their family fortunes in debauchery and end up destitute instead!?


    How am I supposed to face them in the Meteor Trial? There should be aw banning Sanctuary sorcerers from participating in the College League!


    The vige girl couldn��t hide her envy, jealousy, and bitterness anymore.


    She nced at the situation inside the sports car. Hmm, tonight the Observer and the Witch were not piled on top of each other, so Sonya felt a bit better and couldn��t help but spill her emotions: ��You guys have no idea what I went through tonight����


    ����So, I finally managed to defeat an Earth sorcerer, but our school still lost miserably in the Celestial Pce Trial. And now I have to face someone in the Meteor Trial who, like me, specializes in the Vibration Sword, but has higher spellforce, a higher realm, and can perform miracles thatpletely overshadow mine! It��s so unfair!��


    As she spoke, Sonya grabbed the Witch��s hand and shook it, sighing, ��Looks like I won��t be able to win the Meteor Trial this time����


    A momentter, Sonya suddenly felt a strange sensation.


    So quiet.


    It was so quiet inside the sports car.


    Previously, the Witch would engage in awkward but earnest attempts at conversation, using phrases like ��mm-hmm,�� ��is that so,�� and ��how impressive�� to keep the discussion going. Plus, the Witch truly was interested in campus life and the College League, which made Sonya happy to chat, given she had such an attentive listener.


    Due to their roles, the Observer usually wouldn��t join in, but if he noticed that the atmosphere was bing stagnant, he would step in to break the ice, giving Sonya a chance to tease him a bit and maintain the group��s bnce.


    But now, despite Sonya initiating the conversation, neither of them reacted at all?


    It felt like saying a whole paragraph in a group chat only to get no responses, making the vige girl squirm with awkwardness.


    She looked at the Witch and found that she was resting her chin on her left hand, looking somberly out at the Reverse Golden Rain, her expression pained as she bit her lip. The Observer was also staring nkly ahead, as if his soul was still stuck in reality.


    ��Witch? Witch!��


    Sonya gave her a nudge, pulling the Witch out of her thoughts. ��Huh? What is it?��


    ��Do you know what I just said?��


    Deya: ��I�� I��m sorry, I zoned out and didn��t catch it.��


    ��Are you okay?��


    ��Can you tell?��


    ��Of course, your eyebrows practically spell out ��I��m not happy.�� How could I not notice?��


    ��Really!?��


    ��Of course not. Are you okay?�� Sonya asked, ��You seem really out of sorts.��


    ��I��m just a bit anxious����


    ��Is it something in the real world?�� Sonya probed gently, ��Maybe we can give some advice, and talking about it might make you feel better.��


    Deya��s face showed aplicated mix of emotions as she pressed her lips together tightly. In the end, she slowly shook her head. ��No, I can��t�� I just can��t say it.��


    ��But you don��t seem in the right state to explore. How about letting another sister take over for tonight?��


    Sonya initially used a bit of reverse psychology, knowing that the Secret Princess personality was always strong-willed and hated being underestimated. However, after a moment of hesitation, Deya meekly nodded. ��You��re right. I think I need to calm down. Let White Queen take my ce tonight.��


    With that, the Witch��s attire shifted from ck to white, transforming into the elegant andposed White Queen. Among the Witch��s four personalities, White Queen was the one with the highest emotional and general intelligence, always polite and well-mannered. Though she wasn��t as gullible as the Secret Princess, interacting with her was very pleasant.


    After exchanging greetings, the vige girl called out to the driver, ��Observer, what are you up to tonight?��


    Ashe snapped to attention suddenly, ��Nothing! I��m not up to anything tonight!��

 Chapter 469: He Has Someone Else

    ��Hmm?�� The Stretch Paw Club President was puzzled. ��What are you talking about, Little Trumpet�� I asked you about tonight��s Virtual Realm n.��


    ��The Virtual Realm n���� Ashe breathed a sigh of relief. ��I��ll keep an eye on things as I go.��


    The sports car roared to life, chasing after the distant white bull��s hooves. Golden rain flowed swiftly into the Alchemy Throne, transforming into spellforce for the sorcerers.


    Sensing the nearing fullness of her spellforce, Sonya estimated that within the next couple of days, she��d be able to fully condense her golden virtual wings and officially be a two-wings sorcerer. Although she didn��t have shortcuts like ��Whirlpool�� for rapid spellforce absorption, thebination of the sports car and Alchemy Throne��s cultivation bonuses allowed them to absorb spellforce at least ten times faster than others. Their month-long stay in the Time Continent covered a year��s worth of progress for others.


    If the Sea of Knowledge requires a journey of thousands of miles, then the demand of Time Continent is a trek of thousands of miles. In the Sea of Knowledge, sorcerers had no choice but to swim as there were few spirits and miracles, but in Time Continent, walking for a few days would feel ridiculously slow. Securing Movement Miracles for transportation tools became essential.


    Sonya still didn��t have a good Movement Miracle, which had a lot to do with being driven by the Observer daily. In a way, Sonya was somewhat spoiled for this, as without the Observer, her progress in Time Continent would likely be quite arduous.


    With this thought, the vige girl decided on tonight��s discussion topic with the Witch: ��What if we are abandoned by the Observer?�� This topic could continue to lower the Witch��s favor for the Observer while also sparking her sense of crisis to actively intensify her real-world training!


    However, the wording required careful consideration. If the Witch misunderstood and thought it was ��What if you get abandoned by the Observer,�� it would backfire, making it seem like she and the Observer were oppressing the Witch.


    Therefore, Sonya had to muster genuine emotions, expressing herself as if she was really worried about being abandoned by the Observer to make the Witch empathize.If I were to be abandoned by the Observer, what would be the cause��


    Not strong enough as an operator? Impossible, he��s clearly just saying that to scare me into more training��I saw through that long ago��


    Appearing less attractive than another operator? No way, I��m the most beautiful one��


    If these reasons can��t even convince me, how can they persuade the Witch? But I just can��t think of anything��


    While Sonya was brewing a stomach full of mischief, she suddenly heard strange muttering next to her��


    ��Poison her? The sess rate is too low.��


    ��Anyway, just hold onto it, don��t give her a chance����


    ��Call her mom over? Little Red, did you forget, her mom wants it too.��


    ��Although it��s unlikely, what if they reconcile and decide to develop and use it together? How could wepete then? And her aunt is also an enemy��that makes three people, almost as many as we have!��


    ��Damn it, damn it, every single one of them is a bad person, all eyeing my treasure!��


    Sonya listened to the White Queen��s lowered murmuring, watching her smooth white hair gradually tainted with bright red and ck, her gentle face turning dark and gloomy. She thought about what could have happened to the Witch in reality that caused her mood swings to be so intense, even leading to a personality breakdown in the Virtual Realm.


    Moreover, it sounded like something important was about to be taken away. The Scarlet Dead Apostles believed calling the other side��s mother would stop it, but the White Queen thought the mother and aunt both desired it too�� Was it some kind of toy? ?


    Sonya quickly hugged the White Queen, softlyforting her. Realizing her own abnormality, the White Queen gently leaned on Sonya��s shoulder to rest.


    ��Is everything okay? Or����


    ��No problem, it��s just that we lost ourposure this time. Since we��vee to the Virtual Realm, we shouldn��t dwell on real-world matters, and even more so shouldn��t bring emotions into our work.��


    Sonya felt a bit disappointed��since the Witch was in such a bad mood today, she couldn��t discuss the topic of ��being abandoned by the Observer�� to avoid adding to her troubles.


    Just then, the sports car stopped outside a resource point. The White Queen looked towards the depths of the mine cave. ��I hope the fight can help me rx a bit.��


    ��It definitely will. Nothing like ying a few de Fish Dragons to relieve some stress,�� Sonyaughed. ��I��ve even set challenge goals for myself. My current record is one sword sh killing five de Fish Dragons. Maybe you should set a challenge for yourself too��like how many pieces you can divide a de Fish Dragon into with a single attack?��


    Skilled in eradicating enemies and looting, Sonya seized the opportunity while the White Queen was scavenging for essential materials to pull Ashe aside and asked, ��What��s going on with you today?��


    ��W-What do you mean?�� Ashe was visibly tense.


    ��Why did you use the Healing Sword and Empowerment Sword on me so many times?�� Sonya crossed her arms over her chest. ��The minor injuries I had could be healed with soul energy alone; I didn��t need the Healing Sword. And the Empowerment Swordsts for over twenty seconds��you kept reapplying it every ten seconds. Do you know how annoying that is?��


    Sonya always felt that the Observer��s Empowerment Sword was incredibly peculiar. It gave a strong sensory stimulus for some reason, and every time she was empowered, it felt like he was hugging her. Not that she disliked it, but it did interrupt her fighting rhythm quite a bit when done frequently.


    ��I��m sorry!�� Ashe immediately sped his hands together in apology. ��I��ll let you have all my essential materials tonight!��


    ��I��m not asking forpensation���� Sonya frowned slightly. ��You��ve just been acting weird tonight.��


    ��No, I haven��t. I��ve always been like this����


    ��Look at me and don��t move.��


    Under Sonya��s intense gaze, Ashe managed to maintain eye contact for two or three seconds before turning his eyes away. He opened the virtual realm map and said, ��Sword Princess, I think we should go to����


    ��Forget about these trivial virtual realm matters.�� Sonya pushed Ashe against the wall and grabbed his hand. A faint red glow emerged from her fingertips as they came into contact with his. ��Look into my eyes.��


    ��Sword Princess, the Witch is about toe back����


    ��Look. At. Me!��


    Miracle �C Treat with Sincerity!


    This Miracle, based on the spirit of ��sincerity��, had previously been used by Sonya only once��in the Amnesia Cabin to share her emotions with the Witch and the Observer, thereby gaining their trust. However, this Miracle could also be used the other way around. As long as the other party didn��t resist, she could reverse the process to sense their emotions.


    At that moment, Ashe, noticing the Witch emerging from the mine cave, immediately used the Rush ability to teleport outside. ��I��ll be waiting in the car while you two finish scavenging!��


    The White Queen emerged, seeing the Sword Princess standing alone at the entrance of the mine cave, feeding stones to a spirit as she approached. ��Sword Princess, the Observer����


    The moment the Sword Princess turned to look at her, the White Queen��s words abruptly stopped. Her mind went nk under the impact of the icy killing intent. After a difficult moment of regaining herposure, she adjusted her sses. Instantly, her makeup, clothing, and hair color transformed to ck, bing the ck Butler.


    The ck Butler looked at the Sword Princess, twitching slightly at the corner of her mouth. She took a deep breath. ��Sword Princess, you�� I can��t help it, I��m still really scared!��


    Adjusting her sses once more, she morphed into the cold and arrogant battle-crazy Scarlet Dead Apostles. The Scarlet Dead Apostles gave the Sword Princess a nce and shook her head. ��I��m not stupid.��


    In the end, it was the Secret Princess Deya who stepped up to handle the situation. Yet even Deya didn��t dare to look directly into the Sword Princess��s eyes, which seemed to be a sea of blood and killing intent. She hugged the Sword Princess, burying her head in thetter��s chest, her voice trembling. ��S-Sword Princess, what happened? You seem to be in a very bad mood����


    ��Nothing happened.��


    The Sword Princess��s voice was still as soft and captivating as ever, like feathers brushing the ear, stirring the heart. She gently stroked the Witch��s little head, smiling. ��I just suddenly had a strange thought and got lost in it for a moment.��


    ��W-What thought?��


    ��A very trivial thought�� just, what if the Observer abandons me.��


    The anxiousness of avoiding eye contact.


    The lingering excitement of a secret joy.


    And a strong sense of guilt.


    Even though it was her first time feeling this way, Sonya��s intuition��or what the Observer called ��Dark Insight����had already grasped the truth.


    He��s seeing someone else.


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