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## Chapter 4: Beasts and Beauties (continued)
This assessment was more insightful than many would give the seemingly chaotic Demon King credit for, cutting to the core of what made Fang Yuan both so effective and so disturbing—his perfect instrumental rationality untethered from any emotional or moral constraints.
"Joy is inefficient," Musashi replied with surprising gravity, resting her hand on her sheathed blade. "Yet it is what gives meaning to mastery."
Nobunaga stared at the ceiling, her usual manic energy momentarily subdued. "I burned monasteries and slaughtered enemies in service to my ambition, but I laughed while doing it. I tasted the wine of victory." Her crimson eyes narrowed. "He seeks power as if following a mathematical formula. It's... unsettling, even to the Demon King."
In yet another chamber, Gilgamesh reclined on a golden couch she had summoned from her treasury, refusing to lower herself to using the furnished bedding. A goblet of wine dangled from her fingers as she addressed Artoria, who had stopped by after completing a courtesy patrol of the outpost's perimeter.
"This farce grows increasingly tiresome," the King of Heroes declared imperiously. "Playing at diplomatic niceties with primitive beast-men? The King was not meant for such mundane charades."
Artoria leaned against the doorframe, her armor removed but Excalibur still at her side. "They are warriors worthy of respect, regardless of their technological development. Honor is not measured by advancement."
"Spare me your knightly platitudes," Gilgamesh scoffed, though with less venom than usual. "My issue is not with these creatures, limited though they may be. It is with the fundamental indignity of our situation." She raised her bound wrist, where the ethereal chain of their binding was visible only to those it constrained. "The King does not serve. The King is not bound."
"Yet here we are," Artoria stated simply.
Gilgamesh's crimson eyes flashed with momentary anger before settling into something more contemplative. "Indeed. Here we are." She took a deliberate sip of wine. "What do you make of him, King of Knights? Our... master." The last word was infused with such sarcasm it practically dripped from her lips.
Artoria considered the question with characteristic thoughtfulness. "He is unlike any being I have encountered. There is no cruelty in him, no sadism or pleasure in dominance. Yet neither is there mercy, compassion, or restraint born of moral consideration."
"A void," Gilgamesh summarized. "A perfectly calculating void."
"And yet," Artoria added, "there is a kind of terrible purity to his ambition. He seeks transcendence beyond all limitations. In a strange way, it recalls the purest form of knightly quest—the search for something perfect and absolute."
"Twisted beyond recognition," Gilgamesh countered, but without her usual dismissive tone. For once, she seemed engaged in genuine philosophical exchange. "Transcendence divorced from any worthy purpose becomes mere accumulation. What does he intend to do with such power once attained?"
The question hung in the air between them—a rare moment of concordance between the usually antagonistic kings.
"Perhaps that is the most disturbing element," Artoria finally said. "Power is not a means to any end for him. It is the end itself."
As dawn approached, Fang Yuan emerged from his meditation to find Raikou seated outside his door, her back against the wall, blade across her lap. She had apparently appointed herself his guardian through the night.
"My child is awake," she observed with maternal warmth, rising gracefully despite having remained in one position for hours. "Did you sleep well? I ensured no disturbances troubled your rest."
"I neither slept nor required protection," Fang Yuan stated flatly, stepping past her without further acknowledgment.
Undeterred by this dismissal, Raikou fell into step behind him. "A growing boy needs proper rest, whether he acknowledges it or not. And a mother's protection is always necessary, even when unrecognized."
Fang Yuan didn't bother responding to this continued delusion. He had long since categorized Raikou's maternal fixation as a psychological abnormality that was irrelevant unless it interfered with her combat utility. So long as she followed commands in battle, her fantasy of maternal connection could continue without correction.
They descended to the main level of the ironwood fortress where they found Commander Graylash already organizing the day's activities. The leonine leader bowed deeply upon seeing Fang Yuan.
"Honored visitor, I trust your accommodations were satisfactory? We have prepared morning refreshments in the central hall."
"The accommodations were adequate," Fang Yuan replied. "I require access to your archives or knowledge repositories. Particularly any information regarding the skill acquisition system and the evolution of creatures in this world."
The commander's whiskers twitched slightly at this direct approach, but he recovered quickly. "Of course. Our outpost maintains a modest collection of texts and records. Our shaman, Elder Torrin, serves as keeper of knowledge. I will arrange for him to provide full access."
"Acceptable," Fang Yuan acknowledged with a slight nod. "Where are the others of my group?"
"Most still rest," Graylash reported. "Though the golden-armored one departed at first light to 'survey this primitive realm from a proper vantage,' as she put it."
This information caused Fang Yuan's eyes to narrow slightly. Gilgamesh's independent exploration wasn't necessarily problematic—the binding would prevent her from straying too far or taking actions contrary to his interests—but it represented an assertion of autonomy that warranted monitoring.
"And the goddess?" he inquired, referring to Ishtar without using her name.
Commander Graylash's expression brightened considerably. "The Moon Sovereign arose with the dawn and is currently receiving morning devotions in the eastern courtyard. Many of our warriors seek her blessing before beginning their duties."
This development aligned with Morgan's report from the previous night—the religious fervor centered on Ishtar was intensifying rather than diminishing. While currently useful for maintaining positive relations with the beastmen, it could potentially complicate their eventual departure.
As Fang Yuan and Raikou entered the central hall, they found Arcueid and Durga already present, engaged in what appeared to be detailed comparison of biological systems across different worlds.
"The magicule concentration in local fauna creates fascinating adaptations," Arcueid was explaining, gesturing toward a detailed diagram she had drawn on parchment. "Blood composition includes suspended magical particles that enable rapid healing and environmental adaptation."
"Similar to how cosmic essence manifests in certain demigod species in my realm," Durga observed, her multiple arms creating comparative illustrations in the air. "Though the integration appears more complete here, without the destabilizing effects we typically observe."
Both turned as Fang Yuan approached, their scholarly discussion pausing momentarily.
"We've been analyzing local biological samples," Arcueid reported without preamble. "The beastmen provided access to their medicinal stores, which include preserved specimens from various magical creatures."
"The findings are significant," Durga added. "This world's magical ecosystem operates on principles that could potentially be adapted to accelerate your cultivation objectives."
Fang Yuan's cold eyes showed a flicker of interest—the closest thing to approval he ever displayed. "Elaborate."
For the next several minutes, they provided a detailed technical analysis of how Tensura's magicule system compared to the spiritual energy systems of their respective worlds, with particular focus on methods for energy absorption and transformation.
"Most intriguing is the predation mechanism," Arcueid concluded, her crimson eyes gleaming with vampiric understanding of consumption-based power. "When a creature here devours another, it can potentially absorb not just raw magical energy but structured patterns—the foundation of skills themselves."
This information aligned perfectly with Fang Yuan's preferred methods of power acquisition. Throughout his centuries of cultivation, he had always favored direct appropriation of others' abilities over the slower path of independent development.
"This confirms the shaman's explanation of the combat path to skill acquisition," he noted. "Have you identified the specific mechanism that enables this transfer?"
"Partially," Durga replied, her cosmic eyes thoughtful. "It appears to involve a synchronization between the predator's soul and the consumed magical essence, followed by a restructuring process that integrates the absorbed patterns."
Before this technical discussion could continue, they were interrupted by the arrival of Nero and Morgan, the former dramatically yawning while the latter moved with her usual silent grace.
"Umu! The Emperor requires morning refreshment after blessing these rustic accommodations with her imperial presence throughout the night!" Nero declared, somehow making even morning dishevelment seem theatrical. "Where might one find suitable sustenance?"
A beastman attendant immediately approached with a tray of fruit, smoked meats, and herbal tea. Nero accepted these offerings with imperial magnanimity, though her expression upon tasting the tea suggested it fell somewhat short of Roman standards.
"Our investigation continues today," Fang Yuan announced to his assembled servants. "Primary objectives: comprehensive understanding of the skill system, geographical knowledge of major power centers, and assessment of potential initial targets for acquisition of abilities."
"Targets?" Morgan inquired, her politically astute mind immediately grasping the implications. "You intend to begin hunting magical creatures to test the skill absorption process."
"Correct," Fang Yuan confirmed without hesitation. "Theory must be validated through practical application. The beastmen will provide access to their archives and possibly guides to suitable hunting grounds."
"My child shows such scientific curiosity," Raikou beamed proudly, as if Fang Yuan had announced a school project rather than a plan to hunt and consume magical beings for their powers. "Always seeking to expand his knowledge through hands-on experience."
Morgan's lips curved in a subtle smile. "The beastmen may be less enthusiastic about assisting their 'divine visitors' in hunting activities if they understood the purpose."
"They need not understand the purpose," Fang Yuan replied simply. "Their perception of our motives is irrelevant so long as their cooperation continues."
This cold pragmatism drew no particular reaction from his servants—they had quickly learned that moral considerations held no weight in Fang Yuan's decision-making process.
Throughout the morning, the remaining servants joined the group in staggered intervals. Musashi arrived after completing a dawn sword practice session that had drawn an audience of admiring beastman warriors. Nobunaga followed shortly thereafter, engaged in animated tactical discussion with Sub-Commander Karim, with whom she had apparently developed an unlikely rapport based on shared military enthusiasm.
The last to rejoin the group was Ishtar, who floated into the central hall surrounded by a retinue of devoted beastmen carrying various offerings—from carved wooden symbols to fresh flowers and fruits.
"My faithful require proper guidance in appropriate worship practices," she explained with divine condescension when Fang Yuan's cold gaze fell upon her entourage. "It would be irresponsible to leave them without proper ritual structures."
"Your religious activities must not interfere with our information gathering objectives," Fang Yuan stated flatly. "Dismiss your followers for now."
The binding compelled her compliance, though Ishtar managed to make the dismissal seem like her own gracious decision. "Return to your duties, faithful ones. The Moon Sovereign will hold evening devotions after you have fulfilled your worldly responsibilities."
Once the beastmen had departed with reluctant bows, Ishtar's expression shifted to one of smug satisfaction. "You may not appreciate the value of worship, but a proper divine cult provides numerous practical advantages. These devoted followers will do anything I ask without question."
"A tool with limited application but potentially useful in specific circumstances," Fang Yuan acknowledged dispassionately. "Maintain the connection but do not allow it to create complications for our departure when the time comes."
Morgan, ever the political strategist, interjected smoothly. "Speaking of departures, should we not be concerned about Gilgamesh's independent excursion? The binding prevents direct disobedience, but she has always been creative in finding loopholes."
"The King of Heroes cannot act counter to my interests due to the binding," Fang Yuan replied. "Her absence is noted but not problematic. She will return when her exploration reaches the binding's distance limitation."
As if summoned by this discussion, a series of golden portals opened in the air above the central hall. Gilgamesh descended from one of them, her golden armor gleaming in the morning light that filtered through the ironwood's canopy.
"This region is even more primitive than initially apparent," she announced without preamble. "Besides this outpost, there are only scattered tribal settlements and minor resource extraction operations within the binding's range limitation."
"You conducted aerial reconnaissance?" Artoria asked, her tactical mind immediately grasping the value of such information.
"The King surveys his domain from an appropriate vantage," Gilgamesh replied haughtily. "Though I would scarcely call these wilderness territories worthy of royal attention."
Fang Yuan absorbed this geographical information without comment. The relative isolation of the area could be either advantageous or limiting, depending on how quickly he wished to engage with major power centers.
"Did you observe any signs of the imperial forces regrouping?" Commander Graylash asked, having entered the hall in time to hear Gilgamesh's report.
The King of Heroes cast a dismissive glance at the leonine leader. "Your human enemies retreat eastward in disarray. Their formation discipline has collapsed, with smaller groups separating from the main force. Some appeared to be deserting rather than merely retreating."
This information visibly relieved the commander. "Better than we could have hoped. Divine intervention has shattered not just their attack but their morale." He bowed deeply toward Ishtar. "The Moon Sovereign's blessing extends beyond the battlefield itself."
Ishtar accepted this praise with practiced divine grace, though a quick glance at Fang Yuan suggested she expected some acknowledgment of her contribution to their diplomatic standing. She received only his usual empty gaze in return.
With the group now fully assembled, Fang Yuan outlined the day's objectives with clinical precision. Artoria, Musashi, and Nobunaga would accompany beastman patrols to gather tactical information about the surrounding territory. Morgan, Durga, and Arcueid would continue their investigation of local magical and biological systems. Nero and Raikou would engage socially with the beastmen to extract cultural information that might reveal exploitable beliefs or practices. Ishtar would maintain her religious cover while gathering intelligence from her followers. Gilgamesh, having demonstrated a preference for independent operation, would be permitted to continue aerial surveillance within the binding's range.
"And you, Master?" Morgan inquired, though she likely already anticipated his answer.
"I will access their knowledge repositories and extract all available information on skill acquisition, magical creature classification, and power hierarchies," Fang Yuan replied. "Elder Torrin will provide access to their archives."
As the servants dispersed to their assigned tasks, Commander Graylash personally escorted Fang Yuan to the archives—a small chamber near the base of the ironwood tree where the collected knowledge of generations of border guards was preserved in various forms. Some information was recorded on parchment scrolls, other knowledge preserved in carved wooden tablets, and the most ancient lore stored in memory crystals that glowed with faint magical light.
Elder Torrin, the tortoise-featured shaman who had spoken with Durga at the previous night's feast, served as custodian of this knowledge. His ancient shell was inscribed with magical formulae that Fang Yuan immediately recognized as memory-enhancement patterns.
"Welcome, honored visitor," the elder greeted him with formal respect. "Commander Graylash informs me you seek knowledge of our world's fundamental systems. How may this humble keeper of records assist your inquiry?"
"I require comprehensive information on three topics," Fang Yuan stated without preamble. "First, the skill acquisition and evolution system, particularly the combat path of development. Second, classification of magical creatures by ability type and habitat. Third, the hierarchy and known capabilities of the ten Demon Lords who form the Walpurgis Council."
The elder's ancient eyes widened slightly at the breadth and specificity of the request, but he nodded respectfully. "You seek knowledge of great depth, honored one. I shall provide what resources we possess, though I must note that our frontier outpost maintains only a fraction of the knowledge available in the Beast Kingdom's central archives."
"Provide what you have," Fang Yuan instructed. "Limitations are noted."
For the next several hours, Fang Yuan immersed himself completely in the accumulated knowledge of the beastmen. With his perfect memory and centuries of experience analyzing magical systems across various realms, he absorbed information at a rate that clearly astonished Elder Torrin.
The most valuable discoveries came from a set of memory crystals that contained firsthand accounts of beastmen who had successfully evolved their capabilities through combat with magical beasts. These records described not just the external process but the internal sensations and techniques used to absorb and integrate the defeated creatures' abilities.
"The key lies in synchronizing one's spiritual core with the dissolving essence of the defeated being," one account explained. "One must create an internal 'hollow' that draws in the opponent's magicules while simultaneously imposing one's own pattern upon them."
This description aligned perfectly with certain immortal aperture techniques Fang Yuan had mastered in his original world. The parallels suggested that adapting his cultivation system to this world's mechanics might be more straightforward than initially anticipated.
By mid-afternoon, Fang Yuan had processed all available information on skill acquisition and magical creature classification. The data on Demon Lords proved more fragmentary—the beastmen had detailed knowledge only of their own ruler, Beast King Carrion, with limited information on the others who comprised the Walpurgis Council.
"Your archives have been informative," he acknowledged to Elder Torrin as he completed his review. "One final question: where might one find magical creatures of significant power within reasonable distance of this outpost?"
The elderly shaman considered this request carefully. "The most accessible hunting grounds would be the Crystal Caverns three days' journey northwest. They house various mineral-based entities of considerable magical potency. More dangerous but potentially more rewarding would be the Fallow Mire to the southwest, where toxic-attribute beasts evolve rapidly due to the unique magical environment."
This practical information completed Fang Yuan's immediate knowledge requirements. With a slight nod of acknowledgment to Elder Torrin, he departed the archives to find several of his servants already returned from their assigned tasks.
Arcueid approached him immediately, her crimson eyes gleaming with excitement. "We've made a significant discovery regarding local magical creatures," she reported without preamble. "A subspecies of adaptation-type beasts that naturally mimic the abilities of creatures they consume. They provide a perfect model for understanding the magicule absorption process."
"Where did you acquire this information?" Fang Yuan inquired.
"Practical research," Arcueid replied with a predatory smile. "The beastmen maintained several preserved specimens in their biological repository. Morgan and I performed a detailed analysis of their cellular structure."
Morgan, who had been conversing with Durga nearby, joined the discussion. "The specimens revealed a specialized organ system that processes consumed magicules through a filtration and restructuring process. Most fascinating was the soul-interface mechanism that allows the absorbed abilities to be integrated into the creature's own expression pattern."
This was precisely the kind of technical detail Fang Yuan required to develop a practical approach to skill acquisition in this world. His immortal aperture would need modification to replicate this filtration and restructuring process, but the fundamental principles appeared compatible with his existing cultivation techniques.
Their discussion was interrupted by sounds of commotion from the outpost's main gate. Commander Graylash rushed past, his expression alert but not alarmed.
"A messenger arrives from the capital," he explained briefly to Fang Yuan. "Bearing the Beast King's insignia—this is a high-priority communication."
Fang Yuan followed the commander to the gate, his servants gathering behind him with varying degrees of curiosity. The newly arrived messenger—an exhausted-looking cheetah-featured beastman whose fur was matted with the sweat of long-distance running—knelt before Commander Graylash and presented a sealed scroll marked with royal insignia.
"Urgent dispatch from Beast King Carrion," the messenger announced formally. "For Commander Graylash's immediate attention."
The commander broke the seal and unrolled the scroll, his expression growing increasingly serious as he read its contents. When he finished, he looked up with grave eyes.
"The Beast King has received reports of our divine visitors," he announced, glancing toward Fang Yuan and his servants. "News of the Moon Sovereign's intervention against imperial forces has reached the capital."
"A predictable development," Morgan observed quietly. "Information of religious significance travels faster than ordinary intelligence."
Commander Graylash continued: "His Majesty extends formal invitation to our honored guests to visit the royal capital of Eurazania. A formal escort will arrive within two days to provide suitable accompaniment for beings of your stature."
This invitation represented both opportunity and potential complication. Access to the Beast Kingdom's capital would provide vastly greater information resources and potential connections to major power structures in this world. However, increased scrutiny from higher authorities might limit Fang Yuan's freedom of action.
## Chapter 4: Beasts and Beauties (continued)
This invitation represented both opportunity and potential complication. Access to the Beast Kingdom's capital would provide vastly greater information resources and potential connections to major power structures in this world. However, increased scrutiny from higher authorities might limit Fang Yuan's freedom of action.
His servants' reactions to this news varied dramatically according to their personalities. Ishtar practically glowed with divine satisfaction.
"How appropriate that a king recognizes divine presence in his realm," she declared, floating slightly higher as if elevation could emphasize her importance. "I shall graciously accept his homage."
"Umu! A royal reception is the minimum acceptable acknowledgment of imperial dignity!" Nero concurred, already striking a pose worthy of formal portraiture. "Though I do hope their court musicians are more sophisticated than this frontier ensemble."
Gilgamesh's reaction was predictably disdainful. "One backwater ruler recognizing another. How tedious." Nevertheless, a gleam of interest flickered in her crimson eyes at the prospect of evaluating another world's treasures.
The more strategic-minded among Fang Yuan's servants immediately recognized both opportunities and risks.
"The capital will have archives far superior to this outpost," Artoria noted. "Their knowledge of power structures throughout this world will be much more comprehensive."
"But also greater scrutiny," Musashi cautioned, her warrior's instincts alert to potential dangers. "Freedom of movement may be restricted in more formal settings."
"HAHAHA! Political entanglements are the inevitable consequence of power!" Nobunaga cackled, flames briefly flaring around her collar in excitement. "Court intrigue, alliance opportunities, potential conquest assessments—delightful complications!"
Throughout this chorus of reactions, Fang Yuan remained silent, calculating probabilities and potential value propositions with cold efficiency. After precisely 4.3 seconds of analysis, he made his decision.
"We will accept the invitation," he announced. "The information gain outweighs potential restrictions on movement. Prepare for departure when the escort arrives."
Commander Graylash, who had been waiting respectfully for their response, bowed deeply. "I will inform the royal messenger immediately. This is a great honor for our outpost—to have hosted divine visitors before presenting them to the Beast King himself."
As the commander departed to make arrangements, Morgan drifted closer to Fang Yuan, her voice pitched for his ears alone.
"This presents an interesting dilemma regarding our Ishtar situation," she observed with clinical detachment. "Her developing religious following here could complicate matters if the Beast King's actual Moon Sovereign turns out to bear little resemblance to our fertility goddess."
"A valid consideration," Fang Yuan acknowledged. "Have you determined the actual status of lunar worship in their kingdom?"
Morgan's lips curved in a cold smile. "I've been making discreet inquiries. Their actual lunar deity appears to be more abstract—a distant cosmic force rather than an anthropomorphic goddess. The locals have simply mapped their existing beliefs onto Ishtar because she loosely fits their conceptual framework."
"Then the discrepancy is manageable," Fang Yuan concluded. "In formal settings, Ishtar will present herself as a 'celestial emissary' rather than their specific deity. The ambiguity preserves utility while minimizing contradiction."
This pragmatic solution to what others might consider a moral dilemma was typical of Fang Yuan's approach—identifying the path that maintained maximum advantage without unnecessary complexity.
The remainder of the day was spent extracting final valuable information from the outpost before their departure. Fang Yuan instructed his servants to focus particularly on gathering intelligence about the Beast Kingdom's capital, political structure, and the Beast King himself.
By evening, they had assembled a reasonably comprehensive briefing. The capital, Eurazania Prime, was a massive city built within and around an ancient forest of colossal trees, many times larger than the ironwood that housed the outpost. Beast King Carrion ruled through a council of tribal representatives, maintaining authority through both political acumen and overwhelming personal power.
"His Ultimate Skill is called Beast King's Authority," Sub-Commander Karim explained to an attentive Nobunaga. "It grants him dominion over all bestial entities within his domain. Even the most savage magical beasts bow before his roar."
"Conceptual authority over a specific domain," Nobunaga summarized thoughtfully. "Similar to certain Noble Phantasms from our realm, though more integrated with this world's fundamental systems."
As night fell, Fang Yuan once again withdrew to his quarters for solitary meditation. This time, however, his concentration was interrupted by a more unusual visitor. Arcueid materialized partially through his wall, her crimson eyes gleaming in the darkness.
"Your pardon for the intrusion," she said, though her tone suggested little actual concern for social niceties. "But I've made a discovery you'll find relevant to your objectives."
Fang Yuan opened his eyes, his meditative trance broken without protest. "Proceed."
The True Ancestor fully entered the room, moving with predatory grace. "I've been experimenting with the local magical creatures—specifically testing how my vampiric abilities interact with their magicule-infused biology."
She held up her hand, where small motes of light danced between her fingers—energy patterns distinctly different from her normal vampiric powers.
"I can absorb their abilities directly," she explained with evident fascination. "Not merely their blood essence as I would in our original worlds, but the structured patterns of their skills themselves. The process feels similar to how I would incorporate a new reality marble segment, but more directly integrated with my conceptual framework."
This was precisely the kind of practical verification Fang Yuan had been seeking—confirmation that beings from other dimensions could interface with Tensura's skill system.
"The absorption mechanism," he inquired. "Does it require complete consumption of the target?"
Arcueid shook her head. "That's the most interesting part. Full physical consumption isn't necessary—just the core magicule cluster that houses the skill pattern itself. These are typically concentrated in specific organs that vary by creature type."
She demonstrated by extending her fingers into claws, which now glowed with a greenish energy unlike her usual powers. "This paralytic effect came from a small lizard-type creature the beastmen keep for medicinal purposes. I only needed to absorb a specific gland near its spine."
Fang Yuan absorbed this information with focused intensity. "Have you identified any limitations to this absorption process? Compatibility constraints? Rejection phenomena?"
"Some skills seem more compatible than others," Arcueid admitted. "Those aligned with my existing vampiric nature integrated more smoothly. Others required conscious restructuring effort." Her crimson eyes studied him with predatory assessment. "For someone like you, with your... unusual spiritual construction, the integration process might present unique challenges."
Fang Yuan nodded slightly, already calculating modifications to his immortal aperture that might optimize skill absorption in this world. "Your findings are valuable. Continue experimentation with careful documentation of results."
The vampire princess tilted her head curiously. "You're not surprised that I've been conducting these experiments without explicit permission?"
"Your nature is predatory and experimental," Fang Yuan stated matter-of-factly. "Exploration of consumption-based power acquisition aligns with your fundamental drives. The binding ensures you cannot act against my interests, but does not require micromanagement of aligned activities."
This perfect understanding of her nature—without judgment or moral constraint—caused Arcueid to smile with genuine appreciation. "Most masters attempt to control vampire behaviors they find disturbing. Your pure pragmatism is... refreshing."
After she departed, Fang Yuan returned to his meditation, now incorporating Arcueid's practical findings into his evolving strategy for power acquisition in this world. The vampire's success confirmed his assessment that this world's skill system could be exploited through modified immortal aperture techniques. The first practical test would need to occur soon, ideally before they reached the more controlled environment of the Beast Kingdom's capital.
Dawn revealed an outpost in careful preparation for the arrival of the royal escort. Commander Graylash had dispatched runners to nearby settlements, summoning additional warriors to form an honor guard worthy of "divine visitors." The central courtyard was being decorated with ceremonial totems and magical light displays, while the best quarters were cleared and improved to house the expected royal representatives.
Fang Yuan's servants had gathered for morning briefing in a small side chamber, each reporting their final intelligence gathering results from the previous day.
"The capital city houses a grand archive called the Ancestral Memory," Morgan reported, having extracted this information from the outpost's shaman. "It contains knowledge dating back to the kingdom's founding, including detailed records of magical evolution patterns and skill development paths."
"Their military structure is organized around specialized hunting packs," Artoria added. "Each tribal group contributes warriors with specific beast affinities, creating combined units with complementary abilities."
"Most interesting is their succession system," Durga observed, her cosmic perspective particularly suited to analyzing long-term power structures. "Leadership transfers not through bloodline but through ritual combat. The current Beast King has maintained authority for over a century by defeating all challengers."
Nobunaga grinned ferally at this information. "A practical meritocracy! I approve. Rule by strength rather than accident of birth."
"Their cultural myths center around a primordial covenant with ancient beast spirits," Raikou contributed, having spent considerable time with the outpost's storytellers. "They believe their beast forms were granted as part of a sacred contract rather than through natural evolution."
These varied insights coalesced into a comprehensive understanding of Beast Kingdom society—knowledge that would prove valuable for navigating the political complexities of the capital. Fang Yuan absorbed every detail with his usual perfect recall, constructing mental models of potential exploitation vectors.
"One final matter before the royal escort arrives," he announced after the reports concluded. "We will conduct a practical test of this world's skill absorption system. Arcueid has confirmed that consumption-based ability acquisition is viable for beings from our original dimensions."
This declaration drew varied reactions from his servants. Gilgamesh regarded the entire concept with aristocratic disdain, while Nobunaga showed predatory interest. Artoria's expression revealed ethical reservations, though the binding prevented direct opposition to Fang Yuan's intentions.
"What sort of test do you propose?" Morgan inquired, always the pragmatist despite her fairy sensibilities.
"A hunting expedition," Fang Yuan explained. "The Crystal Caverns mentioned by Elder Torrin lie within a half-day's journey. We will acquire a suitable specimen, conduct the absorption process, and return before the royal escort arrives."
"My child's first hunt in this new world!" Raikou beamed with disturbing maternal pride. "Such an important milestone in a young man's development!"
Fang Yuan ignored this as he always did, continuing with practical arrangements. "Morgan, Durga, and Arcueid will accompany me for their technical expertise. The rest will remain here to maintain our established presence and manage the beastmen's expectations."
Ishtar immediately protested this assignment. "You expect me to remain behind while you conduct important experiments? I am a goddess of fertility and growth—my domain includes the evolution of living things!"
"Your religious role here requires continued cultivation," Fang Yuan countered without emotion. "Maintaining our diplomatic advantage takes precedence over individual preferences."
The binding prevented further argument, though Ishtar's divine aura briefly flared with frustration before she regained control.
Informing Commander Graylash of their brief "spiritual journey" to a nearby location of power proved straightforward. The beastman leader accepted this explanation without question, assuming some form of divine communion with local energy sources.
"The Crystal Caverns do indeed house ancient power," he confirmed respectfully. "Many of our shamans undertake pilgrimages there for spiritual insight. Shall I provide guides?"
"Unnecessary," Fang Yuan declined. "We will commune more effectively in privacy. We shall return before nightfall."
With arrangements completed, Fang Yuan departed with his three selected servants, moving with supernatural speed once beyond sight of the outpost. The journey that would take normal travelers half a day was covered in less than an hour, with Fang Yuan keeping pace effortlessly despite lacking his servants' divine physical capabilities.
The Crystal Caverns revealed themselves as a series of glittering openings in a rising hillside, the surrounding stone embedded with multicolored crystalline formations that pulsed with magical energy. Even from the entrance, they could sense the magicule concentration was significantly higher than the surrounding environment.
"Remarkable energy density," Durga observed, her cosmic senses extended to analyze the cavern system. "The crystal formations appear to act as natural magicule accumulators, drawing and concentrating ambient energy."
"The geological structure creates a self-reinforcing magical circuit," Morgan added, her fairy perception attuned to natural energy flows. "Raw magicules enter, become refined through interaction with the crystal matrices, and eventually form into semi-sentient magical entities."
Arcueid's crimson eyes gleamed with predatory anticipation. "I can sense several powerful presences within. Living crystals that have absorbed enough refined magicules to develop consciousness and mobility."
Fang Yuan absorbed this analysis as they ventured deeper into the cave system. The tunnels widened into spectacular chambers where crystal formations grew in impossible configurations, defying normal geological constraints. Light reflected and refracted through the crystalline structures, creating an ethereal environment of shifting colors and shadows.
"There," Arcueid whispered, pointing toward a section of apparently ordinary crystal wall. "It's camouflaged, but definitely alive."
As they watched, a portion of the wall detached itself—revealing a roughly humanoid crystal entity whose body sparkled with internal magical light. It moved with surprising grace for a being composed entirely of crystalline material, regarding the intruders with faceted surfaces that somehow conveyed wariness.
"A Crystal Sentinel," Morgan identified, recalling information from the beastmen's archives. "Moderately evolved magical entity with defensive and light manipulation abilities. Perfect for a first test subject—complex enough to possess distinct skills but not powerful enough to present significant danger."
Fang Yuan observed the creature with clinical assessment. "Capture it intact. I need to examine its magicule structure before absorption."
With blinding speed, Arcueid circled behind the crystal entity, herding it toward Durga, who used her multiple arms to create a containment field of cosmic energy. The crystal sentinel attempted to defend itself by emitting blinding flashes of refracted light, but Morgan's fairy magic countered this by creating shadows that neutralized the visual assault.
Within moments, they had the creature suspended in Durga's energy field, immobilized but unharmed. It pulsed with alarmed magical emanations, its crystalline body vibrating at frequencies designed to disrupt magical bindings.
"Fascinating defensive adaptations," Durga commented, adjusting her cosmic field to compensate for the creature's countermeasures. "It possesses at least three distinct skill expressions: light manipulation, vibrational disruption, and crystalline regeneration."
Fang Yuan approached the captured entity, his cold eyes studying its structure with perfect analytical precision. After several moments of observation, he extended his hand toward the creature.
"I will now attempt direct magicule extraction and skill absorption," he announced with scientific detachment. "Maintain the containment field but prepare to terminate the subject if the process creates unexpected reactions."
Using techniques adapted from his immortal aperture cultivation, Fang Yuan established a spiritual connection with the crystal sentinel. The creature's magical essence became visible to his enhanced perception—swirling patterns of concentrated magicules organized around three distinct cores within its crystalline form.
With precise control, Fang Yuan extended his spiritual essence like tendrils, connecting with the skill cores one by one. The first core—housing the light manipulation ability—resisted briefly before yielding to his superior will. As the core's essence flowed into Fang Yuan's immortal aperture, he experienced an unusual sensation—knowledge and ability patterns integrating directly with his spiritual structure.
Morgan, whose fairy senses could perceive aspects of this spiritual exchange, observed with scientific fascination. "The skill pattern transfers nearly intact, with minimal degradation during the transition. Your spiritual structure appears to be adapting to accommodate the foreign energy format."
Encouraged by this success, Fang Yuan proceeded to absorb the creature's second skill core—the vibrational disruption ability. This extraction proved more challenging, as the skill's nature was fundamentally defensive and resistant to external manipulation. Nevertheless, through precise application of his five centuries of cultivation experience, Fang Yuan overcame the resistance and integrated this skill as well.
The crystal sentinel's luminosity dimmed noticeably as its power was systematically drained. When Fang Yuan connected with the third and final core—crystalline regeneration—the creature made a desperate attempt to break free, causing Durga's containment field to momentarily fluctuate.
"Its survival instincts are triggering emergency power redistribution," Arcueid observed, her vampiric senses attuned to prey responses. "It recognizes the existential threat and is attempting to preserve its core essence."
Fang Yuan, unmoved by the creature's struggle, completed the extraction with methodical precision. As the final core energy transferred to his immortal aperture, the crystal sentinel's structure destabilized, collapsing into inert crystalline dust within the containment field.
For several moments after the absorption was complete, Fang Yuan remained perfectly still, his consciousness turned inward to analyze the newly acquired abilities. His servants watched with varying degrees of scientific and predatory interest.
"The integration appears successful," he finally announced, opening eyes that now contained subtle crystalline facets—a physical manifestation of the absorbed abilities. "The skills have been incorporated into my spiritual structure, though they require refinement for optimal efficiency."
To demonstrate, he extended his hand toward a nearby crystal formation. With a thought, he activated the light manipulation ability, causing the crystals to glow with intensified brilliance before precisely controlling the light into focused beams that carved elaborate patterns into the cavern wall.
"Impressive control for a first acquisition," Morgan acknowledged. "The integration is more complete than I anticipated."
"The vibrational ability functions as well," Fang Yuan confirmed, shifting to his second acquired skill. The air around his body shimmered as he generated disruptive frequencies that caused small crystal formations to crack and shatter at precise points.
Most interesting was the regenerative ability. When Fang Yuan deliberately created a small cut on his hand, crystalline structures briefly formed along the wound's edges before facilitating accelerated healing—the injury closing completely in seconds.
"The physical manifestation is unexpected," Durga noted, her cosmic eyes perceiving the fundamental changes in Fang Yuan's spiritual structure. "The skills aren't merely techniques you've learned—they've become integrated aspects of your being."
"This confirms the viability of the approach," Fang Yuan stated with cold satisfaction. "This world's skill system can be exploited through modified immortal aperture techniques. Each absorption will incrementally increase my adaptation to local magical principles."
Having confirmed the fundamental concept, Fang Yuan turned his attention to the deeper cavern system. "We will acquire two more specimens of different types before returning. The comparative data will be valuable for optimizing future acquisitions."
Over the next hour, they located and captured two additional magical entities—a flowing mercury-like being with transformation abilities and a geometric crystal construct with space-warping capabilities. Fang Yuan absorbed skills from both, each integration proceeding more smoothly than the last as his immortal aperture adapted to Tensura's magicule system.
By the time they prepared to return to the outpost, Fang Yuan had successfully incorporated five distinct skills from the three magical entities. Though still limited in power compared to what he would eventually require, these acquisitions represented a crucial first step in establishing his power base in this new world.
As they emerged from the Crystal Caverns, they found the magical environment outside had changed dramatically. Dark storm clouds had gathered with unnatural speed, crackling with magical lightning that displayed peculiar geometric patterns.
"A magicule storm," Morgan identified, her fairy senses alert to the dangerous energy concentrations. "The beastmen mentioned these—natural disasters unique to this region where ambient magical energy condenses into destructive weather phenomena."
The storm's intensity was escalating rapidly, with lightning strikes that left glassy craters in the landscape and wind patterns that seemed to form conscious attack formations.
"We should seek shelter until it passes," Durga advised, her cosmic perspective allowing her to perceive the storm's full destructive potential. "Even beings of our caliber would be unwise to challenge such chaotic magical concentrations unnecessarily."
Fang Yuan assessed the situation with cold calculation. The storm presented a potential delay that could interfere with their scheduled return before the royal escort's arrival. However, it also offered an opportunity to test his newly acquired abilities under stress conditions.
"We will proceed through the storm," he decided. "Durga will create a protective field using her cosmic authority. I will apply the vibrational disruption skill to stabilize the field against magical interference. Morgan and Arcueid will manage any entities that might be drawn to our magical signatures."
This integrated approach demonstrated Fang Yuan's tactical adaptability—immediately incorporating his new abilities into practical applications. His servants acknowledged the plan with varying degrees of approval, Arcueid particularly pleased at the prospect of potential combat with storm-manifested entities.
As they moved into the teeth of the magical tempest, Durga's cosmic field shimmer