Leylin tried to wrest his way out, but an excruciating pain radiated from his shoulders.
[Host has sustained injuries from an arrow! Warning! Warning! High bacteria concentration on the arrowhead, recommend immediate disinfection of the affected area!]
"Damn it!" Leylin hurriedly pulled out the arrow and took a silver dagger from his robes. Gritting his teeth, he gouged out the flesh surrounding the wound.
He hurriedly retrieved a green coloured potion from his waist pouch and poured half of it onto the wound. The other half he emptied into his mouth. Only after hearing the A.I. Chip's voice, [Crisis under control], did he heave a sigh of relief.
When Leylin was struck by the arrow, Doris had also been struck by the lightning, and had fallen down, crashing onto the ground.
At this moment, Doris's whole body was charred and its wings were more than half broken.. One of her hands had vanished without any trace of it left behind, and her ankle was still grasped by the Umbra's Hand spell. Her life force had dropped to a dangerous level. She could die at any moment.
"Revenge! My revenge!" Doris unconsciously kept muttering those words. Suddenly its eyes flashed coldly, and it bit off its own right leg.
* Pa! * The leg flew in the air. The Umbra's Hand, which was holding onto the ankle, disappeared quickly as well.
"Let's die together!"
Doris's whole body inflated. Warts on its face vibrated. Her speed tripled as she charged directly at Leylin.
"Damn it!" Leylin pressed down on his shoulder wound and hastily retreated. At the same time, he threw out the last explosive potion.
* Bang! * An intense explosion reverberated.
Red flames and green liquid mixed together. It let off a dark green firelight.
Leylin rolled back several times before he could finally escape the blast radius.
At this moment, the surroundings were showered with a bunch of green-coloured bones and flesh. It was utterly repulsive.
"Eh?" Looking at the green-coloured remains on the ground, Leylin saw that a yellow fluid swiftly flowed out, continuously corroding the ground. His expression involuntarily changed, and he hurriedly inspected his body.
A few drops of thick fluid had unknowingly corroded his leather armour and opened several wounds on his body. Around each of these wounds was a patch of yellow that was beginning to numb that area.
[Host is suffering from an unknown secondary pathogenic infection. It has invaded the Host and is spreading at very rapidly. Recommend to take counter measures!]
"A.I. Chip! Scan the injury! Find a way to treat it!"
[Mission parameters established! Scanning...]
[Beep! Treatment requires 30 grams of Human Head Bird, 500 millilitres of pink ink oil, 50 grams of Green Coconut Rock...]
The A.I. Chip continued to list down a huge number of items.
"When would I have the time to buy these? A.I. Chip, generate the method for immediate suppression!" Leylin's face darkened.
[Cauterising the wound with a flame will be effective in reducing the rate of infection!] The A.I. Chip responded.
"A flame?" Leylin ripped his clothes and casually picked up a burning branch as he placed the glowing flame on his wound.
* Sssii! * The sound of something being barbecue was heard accompanied by the smell of charring flesh. Leylin's face contorted in pain.
Minutes later, the A.I. Chip pronounced the treatment effective. Leylin put away the fire and sat limply on the ground panting, cold sweat dripping all over his body.
"The enemy, this time, was extremely dangerous! Its resistance towards physical and flame attacks was extremely high. Its speed was also fast, and it had a poison attack. It seems to have been prepared specifically for me. If not for the A.I. Chip, I'm afraid..."
Doris' body fluids, containing the secondary infection from the arrow's poison, were something that the A.I. Chip had not factored in. This made Leylin, who expected only mild injuries from the encounter, suffer such a wretched victory.
"On top of that, the explosive potions that I had prepared have all been used! I have to prepare more ingredients again!"
The past few battles, Leylin had highly relied on potions to defeat his enemies. However, the consumption was also huge, and he threw away close to a thousand magic crystals in value.
Fortunately, he knew how to brew explosive potions; if not, the cost would have skyrocketed even higher.
"Flame can only temporarily constrain the spreading of the pathogen. I have to buy the necessary ingredients to cure it completely!" Leylin looked at his charred wound, his brows furrowed as he gulped down another strength Potion before picking himself up and heading back to Grey Stone City.
This was a huge disturbance. It was very likely that the city's guards already sensed that something was amiss and would very soon send someone over to inspect.
Leylin endured the intense pain and sneaked back inside Grey Stone City. He stealthily took out his chest, not bothering to even bring his two horses along with him. After stealing a light brown coloured horse outside the city walls, he escaped under the cover of night. He was headed towards the Magus market located on the map.
As for the summons of the city lord, it was only natural that he ignored it completely.
...
A dozen odd days later, on the way to Wolkan Province, a light brown coloured horse could be seen carrying two huge chests with a black robed figure astride its back. The horse was panting heavily as its four hoofs dashed across the ground.
"A.I. Chip! Show me my current status!" Leylin's body which moved up and down with the horse's movement, thought inwardly.
[Beep! Leylin Farlier, level 2 acolyte, Knight. Strength: 1.3(2.5), Agility: 1.5(2.7), Vitality: 1.0(3.0), Spiritual force: 4.1(4.4), Magical Power: 4.0. Status: Host is in a weakened state due to infection from the pathogen]
"Although the pathogen was inhibited, it has been a dozen odd days since then. My body is still in a weak condition. Only my spiritual force has increased again- this must be due to the result of constant meditation!"
Leylin looked at his stats and smiled bitterly.
Right now he had a completely new face. He had changed from an icy cold soldier into an extremely dashing golden-haired blue eyed westerner. His face, however, was devoid of colour.
"A.I. Chip! Project the mind map!" Leylin looked at the little information he had compiled superimposed onto an extremely detailed map.
"From Bicky's intelligence gathering, there should be a gathering area for Magi nearby. There, I will be able to buy ingredients to treat this infection!"
Based on half a month of probing and simulation, Leylin surmised that the opponent had only dispatched Doris. Due to the official war with Abyssal Bone Forest Academy, nobody could be bothered with a lowly level 2 acolyte like himself. This was a great piece of news.
"I can probably even make inquiries about the current situation in Abyssal Bone Forest Academy!" Leylin made up his mind and left the main road. He quickly found a spot, took out his tent and tools, and went about setting up camp.
"This area seems a little desolate. However, it's only normal. Magus activities always steer clear of human communities as much as possible. Moreover, the radiation from a Magus is not something that regular humans can withstand."
Leylin sprinkled some white powder around the tent area to prevent bugs and beasts from approaching. He then picked up a metal pan, poured some stream water into it, and lit a bonfire.
Just as the stream water began to boil, Leylin emerged from the trees and threw some mushrooms and other plants into it.
A moment later, after adding some spices and a few strips of jerky, a fresh fragrance of food permeated the air.
Leylin scooped a bowl for himself. The soup base was white in colour. It felt extremely comforting to drink it while it was hot.
Leylin sighed in contentment, "As expected, food that's hot is the best. I could almost puke from constantly eating biscuits and jerky."
The surroundings were dotted with wildflowers, and there was also the sound made by an unknown bird; its cry was much similar to that of a skylark.
"If not for my injury, this would have been perfect!" Leylin finished his meat broth and adjusted his robes.
Under his clothes, a charred area of flesh had a layer of fine hair growing around it looking like hair on one's head, which creeped people out.
"Over there, kill him!"
Signs of movement came from the trees nearby. Leylin's brows furrowed. The shouting gradually became closer. He had a feeling that trouble had come knocking once more.
The bushes nearby split apart as a large guy protecting a nobly dressed young lady rushed out.
When the large guy saw Leylin, he was shocked. He never expected someone had set up camp here. He said with a bitter smile at Leylin, "I'm afraid you'll also be implicated in this."
"Over there, don't let him escape!" A group of armed soldiers in leather armour rushed over. The leader wore an extremely beautiful chainmail.
"This outfit does not seem like something mercenaries or adventurers would wear. These people are most likely the personal retainers of some nobility which is even more troublesome!" Leylin's brows furrowed.
According to the A.I. Chip's scan, this large guy was obviously injured but still had the strength of a Preparatory Knight.
As for the pursuers, the leader was at Knight level, whereas the soldiers behind were just a little stronger than the average human.
"Who are you?" The leader looked at Leylin.
"I'm just an innocent bystander, please continue and don't mind me. I haven't seen anything today!" Leylin continued drinking his meat broth.
This casual vibe obviously made the private squad leader apprehensive since the large guy and young lady stood on the other side.
"Please save us! We are the descendants of Viscount Barrett. If you were to lend us a helping hand, I will definitely remember your kindness, and you will forever have the friendship of the Barrett family!"
The young lady had a pair of mesmerising blue eyes. At this moment her face had a pleading expression that would most likely move the majority of noble male youths to impulsively swear to fight for her honour.
"Miss Lanning, the Viscount only asks for you to return. Please do not resist!" The leader told the young lady.
"That underhanded and despicable worm, he covets the possessions of my family and poisoned my father to his death. Even if I die I will not go back!"
The young lady poured all of her problems out in one go, sneaking a glance at Leylin from time to time. Although her movements were extremely well concealed, Leylin still saw through it.
"It seems like a struggle of inheritance by a descendant who has failed. By purposefully revealing this conflict, you want to drag me down into this huh?" Leylin shook his head.
"Viscount Sire has not done any of the things you claim. As for the inheritance, it is to be decided after the meeting with the nobles!"
The leader exclaimed loudly.
"I have proof on my body!" The young lady snarled.
"Quick, bring Missy home!" The leader seemed prepared to not negotiate any further.
A few of the commoner troops brandishing their knives and swords charged forward. The large guy roared and shielded the noble young lady.
The large guy's strength was obviously not bad. Even though he was injured, he still made 5 of these soldiers pay with their lives.
The commoner troops went forward to chop and retrieve the head of the large guy. They then tied the screaming noble young lady up and only then did the leader who had been wary of Leylin give him a suspicious glance.
"It looks like we have been bothering you! Let's go!"
The leader said as he turned around and prepared to leave.
"Really? Then why are you still wielding your sword?"
Leylin rose up slowly.
"The secrets of our Sire cannot be heard by anyone else!" The leader brandishes his sword slowly. "Moreover, the wounds on your body is the reason why you cannot lend a hand!"
"Cough cough..." Leylin coughed feebly, "Accurate discernment! Seems like you have resolved to kill me today? I swear never to reveal a word of today's matter!"
"Only the dead will keep secrets!" The leader shouted as he slashed at Leylin, his sword reflecting a snow white glint.
Leylin dodged in a rather miserable manner.
The leader's expression became elated, the muscles on his body bulged, but just as he was about to charge forward, his complexion suddenly changed and he retreated several steps.
Behind him the soldiers and the young lady collapsed weakly onto the ground. Only their eyes could still move. "You actually poisoned us!" The leader snarled in shock.
"As expected of a Knight, you actually have the strength to withstand it!" Leylin nodded his head. Although with his strength now he could completely massacre this crowd, if there was a more convenient method available, why shouldn't one use it instead?
The leader threw down his long blade and turned to flee. His speed was actually similar to that of a regular human.
"Under a poisoned state, and yet still having this speed. This is rather remarkable." Leylin assessed indifferently.
He raised the crossbow, "A.I. Chip! Calculate wind speed and humidity! Adjust trajectory!"
* Xiu! * A black line pierced through the Knight's chest. When he saw the arrow that entered from his back and exited his chest bringing blood along with it, fell down with a look of disbelief.
Leylin strode to where the young lady was and towered above her. He stared down then tossed the contents of a bag of powder into her mouth. A moment later, the young lady stood up and stretched her limbs.
"You are... a Magus?" The young lady looked at Leylin as her eyes filled with curiosity.
"No! Just a Potions master. Shift them all over here and take care of them!" Leylin pointed at the fallen soldiers on the ground.
"Why don't you do it?" The young lady pursed her lips, but she still shifted the paralysed soldiers over. She even moved the Knight leader and the large guy's corpse over too.
Afterward, the young lady's eyes flashed coldly. She took out a dagger from her robes and stabbed all of these paralysed soldiers to death.
Throughout the whole process, Leylin watched on frostily, as the young lady stabbed her pursuers to death.
"You are definitely a Magus!" The young lady said confidently.
"As long as you help me with my revenge, I will hand over all my prized possessions to you. This includes the inheritance of a Magus. And I also will belong to you!"
The girl said as she unfastened her robes.
"Are you sure that there is a Magus inheritance in your family?" Leylin was rather amused as he asked.
"I swear it upon the honour of my family!" The young lady's expression was staunch.
[Scanning in the process! Target's blood flow is rapidly increasing. Unusual brainwave activity detected. Conclusion: Lie - 93.3%]
Looking at the conclusion of the A.I. Chip, Leylin shook his head.
"Why don't you leave!"
"What?" The young lady was obviously shocked, "You don't fancy me? I have a lot of prized possessions in my family, you can have anything you like..."
"Could it be that you have read too many tales about Knights in shining armour?" Leylin interrupted her speech.
"In a dense forest, an adventurer chanced upon a princess who was fleeing, and even helped her seek revenge. After overcoming a series of adversities. They triumphed over their enemies. The adventurer obtained the treasures, the love and the admiration of the princess. From then on, they lived happily ever after!"
Leylin recited it in a poetic, bard-like manner.
"It's merely an empty illusory, full of false promise. At most, I'll obtain your body and flesh then I have to help you seek revenge against a Viscount who has the backing of a huge faction. Do I look like an idiot to you?"
"But..."The young lady was obviously still struggling.
"Get lost!" Leylin bellowed.
The young lady got up helplessly. A malicious and poisonous gaze flashed in her eyes, as she prepared to leave.
"Wait!" After the young lady walked for several steps, Leylin's voice travelled over.
The young lady, looking gleeful, turned around.
* Xiu! * An arrow bore through the beautiful face of the young lady and pinned her to the tree right behind her.
"Actually, I could have let you go, but I saw a malicious and raging intent in your eyes!" Leylin gradually sighed. "To a person who had always protected and followed you, you did not even bother to bury his corpse before leaving. From this, it can be seen that you are a brazen ingrate."
"Moreover, to get your revenge, you contemplated some sort of reprisal against me. You will definitely announce this matter today to everyone. Although I am not afraid of trouble, I detest such inconveniences very much..."
"With these many reasons, why would I still let you go?"
Leylin pulled out the arrow and heaped the corpse of the young lady, who died with a grievance, together with the others.
From his bag, he withdrew a yellow coloured potion and poured it on the wound of a corpse. * Sssii! * Soon, the corpse putrefied into a puddle of yellow viscous liquid.
Leylin did the same thing for the rest of the corpses, destroying them all completely.
Moments later, the area surrounding the camp, had only a puddle of yellow water left. The large guy, the young lady, and the pursuing soldiers, all of them, had disappeared with nary a trace.
These potions that could putrefy corpses, and the paralysis powder- all were Leylin's inventions, done when he was bored. Although they do not have much effect against a Magus or even an acolyte, it was still extremely effective against normal humans.
"Right now, the most important thing still is to get enough ingredients to treat my wounds. Anything else would just be an inconvenience!"
Leylin sighed, "What a waste of a newly erected campground."
Leylin packed his things once more, and erased any sign of his existence, before disappearing into the woods.
...
Nighttime, on the outskirts of a densely packed forest.
A figure fully draped in black robes and even had on a conical bamboo hat to conceal its face, appeared.
"Lost Forest, it's here!" Leylin took in his surroundings and compared it again with his map. Without turning around, he entered the darkness.
His leather shoes stepped on the dried twigs, which let out a * Chi-Chi * sound. In the darkness, it sounded even eerier than normal.
"A.I. Chip, initiate area scan!"
[Beep! Slight illusionary field discovered! Field effect: Regular humans who enter will be baffled, walk around in circles, and eventually leave unknowingly.]
"Indeed, no wonder there are tales of ghosts and demons in here. There is often news about humans going missing." Although they were under the illusion, if any Magus met an unsuspecting victim, they wouldn't mind having another sampling for their experiments.
"Hello! acolyte! Welcome to the Magus Market!"
A black figure leapt down lightly from atop a tree and landed on a broken gravestone. Its eyes were gleaming with a dark green light.
Leylin walked closer, and discovered it to be a black cat.
"A Magus' companion? A modulated organism? Or the result of a spell?" Leylin thought inwardly. He then bowed slightly.
"I am a wandering acolyte who heard that the market here is open to any Magus, is that correct?"
"Indeed, this market is governed by the mighty Walker family. Moreover, it promises that every Magus who enters will be ensured safety and protection. Of course, that is only within the perimeters of the market!" The black cat licked its paws as it let off a human-like snigger.
"Then, I wish to enter!"
"All acolytes have to pay a fee of 1 magic crystal! It's free for all Magi!"
"Here!" Leylin nodded his head and tossed over a low-grade magic crystal over.
The black cat caught it in its mouth, turned around and while leaping away from the gravestone, it made a beckoning gesture towards Leylin.
Leylin shrugged and followed it.
The further in they got, the denser the white mist became. However, there was a road under their feet that seemed to be specially constructed before.
"We're here!" Along with the black cat's voice, the mist ahead dissipated and boisterous clamouring sounds could be heard. This made Leylin feel like he had returned to his academy's trading area.
The only difference was that the people here were all tightly wrapped in cloaks or grey robes, not revealing any piece of their skin at all.
Occasionally, some did not bother about concealing their identity, which made Leylin broaden his horizons.
In here were some marine species who had scales on them, and half-beastmen who had fur on their necks. They were different from beastmen, since they were rather a loving and affectionate of species. There Magi could be produced too, and Leylin even saw a Magus with the head of an owl.
A large number of these people also exuded the energy waves of acolytes, but Leylin felt that their aura reeked of blood.
"Although the acolytes in the outside world do not have a firm foundation compared to those in the academies, they are able to advance in an environment where resources are scarce. Their experiences must be bountiful, and they even may be more adept at fighting!" Leylin's heart sank.
The potions in his hands were almost consumed, and right now he was at the most a stronger acolyte amongst the level 2 acolytes, having barely enough strength for self-preservation. If he were to reveal the potions he was carrying, these acolytes would swarm around him like crocodiles and rip him to shreds.
Lowering his head, he found that the black cat had vanished completely.
"Sir! Do you need a guide? I only ask for 1 magic crystal!" A rather skinny little boy ran over.
He had the energy waves of a level 1 acolyte coming from his body., Even though his face was extremely thin, his eyes were very lively.
"Bring me around to have a look!"
"Alright!" The boy was in glee as he hurriedly ran in front of Leylin to lead the way.
"This market is under the protection of the Walker family, a well-received family by both wandering acolytes and Magi alike. Look over there, the wooden hut in the centre is a shop personally set up by the Walker family.
The small boy tried his best to fulfill his duties as a guide.
"So these are other people's stalls?" Leylin pointed at the acolytes displaying their goods on the floor. Their goods were much better than those in the academy, and of course, more of them were counterfeits too.
"Yes, you only need to settle the procedures in the central hall, pay the fees, and then you'll be able to obtain a place to set up your stall!" The little boy nodded, "Sir, is there anything that you'd wish to sell? The Walker family also provides consignment services."
"I'm not in a hurry now. Bring me to the centremost area for a walk!" Leylin said.
In this Magus Market, he discovered several official Magi with activated defensive force fields surrounding them. These are existences he could not fight against right now, so he was more cautious than usual.
"This is the smithy! It specialises in selling weapons! Next to it, with the sign which has a test tube on it, is a Potioneering shop. On the far left is an auction house. From time to time, they have a few premium goods!" The little boy was extremely familiar with this place.
"An auction house? Then will they have the information about magic artifacts?" Leylin casually asked. He was a little more interested now.
"Magic artifact?"
The little boy shook his head, "That is a very precious item! Last year the auction only sold one low-grade magic artifact. There were even official Magi present who joined the bidding..."
"So it's like this. Take me to the weapons shop!"
Leylin followed the little boy to where the blacksmith's smithy was.
"Hey! Big-bearded old man, I brought you some business!" Once the little boy entered the forge he started shouting loudly.
"I'll be right there!" The shop owner did indeed have a thick and bushy beard. He was not tall, but the muscles on his arm were extremely hard and gave an impression of power.
"Greetings esteemed guest! I am the owner of this smithy, please call me Black Hammer!" The shop owner introduced himself.
"I need a cross blade!" Leylin spoke of his intentions. Previously, he had ruined his cross blade when fighting the mutated Green Tree Sprite. He now wanted a better quality one, something that wasn't easy to obtain.
"A cross blade huh, follow me." Black Hammer undid the wine flagon hanging on his waist and took a sip. The scent of alcohol wafted out.
"Oh! Haven't I told you to tone down your drinking?" The little boy frowned as he pinched his nose.
"Hiccup...Edgar, you are still a child and cannot appreciate the absolute bliss of fine tasting wine!" Black Hammer shook his head and led Leylin to a wooden shelf.
"My shop's finished cross blades are all here. Please take your pick. Of course, if it isn't satisfactory, you can have one custom made, as for the price..."
When he spoke of the price, Black Hammer's words were extremely clear. He did not seem even a little bit drunk.
Leylin casually scrutinized the cross blades on the wooden shelf. These blades obviously already went through the rigors of war. Their silver surface emanated a bloodthirsty aura.
Leylin casually picked one up. It had an intricate yet sturdy feel that tingled into his palms that felt rather heavy.
"A finely smithed steel blade. It even has a metallic star smelted onto it. The hilt is wrapped in black silk, to prevent it from slipping through one's hands..." Black Hammer described the item.
Leylin nodded his head and placed the cross blade back on the yellow wooden shelf, then picked up another one.
This cross blade's exterior was a little darkened. It let out a solid reliable aura.
"A blade made of alloy. It has been modified before. Able to resist corrosion and flames!"
"Oh?" Leylin was a little moved, "Can it deflect a Magus' spell?"
"Of course not!" Black Hammer shook his head immediately. "To resist a spell, there should be runes inscribed on the blade at the very least. Moreover, it has to be compounded using precious materials from an Alchemist. Such a blade would already be considered a magic artifact, and wouldn't be displayed in the open like this for sale..."
"My apologies, I have been too greedy!" Leylin shook his head.
Picking up the black blade, "I want this, and prepare another 20 crossbow bolts for me..."
"Alright, the price is..." Black Hammer's eyes shone. He did not bother to drink his wine anymore.
When Leylin and the little boy walked out of the weapons shop, Leylin hung the cross blade from his waist, at the same time he took a magic crystal and tossed it over to the small boy.
"This is your remuneration for today! I wish to walk alone now!"
"Alright! Have a good day!" The little boy was extremely delighted and put away the magic crystal before trotting off.
Leylin stood rooted to the spot until the little boy could no longer be seen. Only then did he turn back to the stalls he had first went in, where the goods were lying on the ground.
After browsing for a bit, Leylin visited every wooden shop found in the central area. Only then did Leylin walk into the shop with the test tube sign.
"Sir, how may I assist you?" spoke a young male staff who wore a fashionable western style suit.
Leylin looked at the potions on the shelves. These sparkling potions radiated various colours. The transparent glass counter also displayed various precious ingredients.
"It seems like this shop's goods are a little better than fatty Woox's!" Leylin nodded his head in approval.
"I will need the feathers of a flamingo, eyeballs of multi-tailed owl, feather from a Human Head Bird, Pink Ink Oil, Green Coconut Rock..."
Leylin hurriedly listed his items. These were all ingredients needed to treat his injuries, to make explosive potions and formulate other basic potions.
The staff quietly listened until Leylin finished speaking before bowing and saying, "My apologies, but may I ask if you are a Potions master?"
"I have a little bit of knowledge in the field!" Leylin's facial features were concealed by the hood of his the cloak. Thus, the staff was unable to discern his expressions.
"Our Walker family wholeheartedly invites you to join our family. The terms we offer are the absolute best amongst Magi families of equal ranking ..." The staff bowed even deeper.
Leylin did expect this a little. Potions masters were a difficult breed to raise. Plus, Magi cannot do without potions so Magi families have always tried to recruit them by offering generous remuneration.
He would definitely not be able to conceal his identity as a Potions master if he were to buy raw ingredients. However, as long as no one discovers his talent, he wasn't afraid of letting them know. After all, as long as he was not found out, others would not know if the person standing before them was a Potions master or an acolyte.
"I will give this some consideration. Do you have the ingredients I listed earlier?" Leylin said with a raspy voice.
"We do have 2 flamingo feathers. As for eyeballs of the multi-tailed owl, we still have a pair left. However, it has been around for 3 years, so some of its medicinal properties have spoiled a little. As for the feathers from a Human Head Bird, Pink Ink Oil, Green Coconut Rock, we have them here, also..."
The staff seemed to remember every item in the shop from memory and blurted them all out.
Leylin nodded his head. A Magus' main cultivation is the spiritual force. After advancing, their brains will also develop. Hence, all Magi were intelligent people. As for Leylin's conjecture, when Magi have advanced into a higher realm, their brains would even be comparable to the processing abilities of the A.I. Chip.
"I want all of them, name your price!" Leylin nodded his head.
"The total amounts to 157 magic crystals!" The staff smiled.
Leylin nodded his head and took out a small box, which he had prepared earlier, from his robes. After opening, one could see that it was densely packed with cyan-coloured potions.
"Look, these are all strength potions!" Leylin took out the strength potions and lay them in front of the front of the staff.
strength potions were one of the basic potions. In fact, most of the Potioneering acolytes chose to brew it first. After seeing this, the staff became evidently disappointed.
But he quickly recovered his composure and began to inspect.
"30 strength Potions, I can give you 130 magic crystals for them," the staff said.
Leylin approved silently. If he were to sell these at Woox's, he would have gotten 120 magic crystals at most. Prices outside were indeed higher, but it was more dangerous too.
"Okay!" Leylin counted another 27 magic crystals and handed them to the staff.
"Bring me the materials I ordered!"
"Okay, give me a moment!" The staff put away the potions and magic crystals before swiftly running to the back.
Leylin waited for what seemed like another dozen minutes before the staff returned with a small wooden chest, which he placed in front of Leylin.
"These are the goods you requested, please inspect them!"
Leylin opened the small wooden chest. It was compartmentalised using wooden trays, where various ingredients were placed on them. There were colourful feathers, green-coloured rocks, and various coloured powders.
Leylin fingers traced the various ingredients, "A.I. Chip! Inspect..."
After the A.I. Chip indicated that all the ingredients were up to standard, only then did Leylin keep the wooden chest. He then rose to leave the Potion Shop.
"What I'm selling is only the most basic of strength Potion, and to gather the ingredients is already this complicated. Even I cannot guess the uses of these ingredients completely. They will definitely not be able to as well."
Leylin hid the small wooden chest beneath his robes and circled around a few times before he slowly left the market.
"The most important thing is, my trades only cost around 100 magic crystals. If the Walker family was stirred because of this paltry amount, then their reputation would have long since gone bad!"
On the way, he increased the A.I. Chip's detection area to the maximum. Only after confirming that no one was following him did Leylin leave the Lost Forest.
Ever since the earlier incident, Leylin moved camp. Right now he sheltered in a cave. As for its previous owner, a Black Bear, it had long since become Leylin's dinner.
* Bang! *
Leylin stacked a few large boxes together to form a simple experiment table. Then, he placed his apparatus on it.
"I am finally going to be rid of this damned pathogen!" Leylin gritted his teeth, "Every day I have to cauterise this wound. With the limitations of my vitality and strength, I've had enough of it!"
Leylin picked up a green-coloured rock with the shape of a leaf on its surface.
This was a Green Coconut Rock, a rare half plant half mineral commodity.
Smashing the Green Coconut Rock apart, Leylin took the Pink Ink Oil and heated it. When it began to bubble, he added the grounded Green Coconut Rock powder.
* Sssii! * As the powdered Green Coconut Rock was poured onto the Pink Ink Oil, a hissing sound was let off.
The Pink Ink Oil turned green in a moment. It released a strangely fragrant odor.
[Potion successfully brewed!] Upon hearing the A.I. Chip's confirmation, Leylin nodded his head slightly.
He stripped all his clothes off. All sorts of burns and scars could be seen littering his body. His shoulder and stomach each had an extremely horrifying scar with tufts of hair growing around them.
"Qiesiter - Kesi!" Leylin murmured an incantation.
The green-coloured potion in the test tube immediately boiled, and continued to evaporate, making the smell in the air more concentrated.
* Sssii! * As if having been granted a life of its own, the hairs around Leylin's wounds started climbing out and wiggled their way into the test tube.
"Wu!" Leylin gritted his teeth and let these hairs make their way out as they pleased.
A dozen minutes later, Leylin's wound no longer had black hair around it. As for the test tube, it transformed into a ball of hair.
Leylin's expression remained apathetic as he wiped off his cold sweat. He lit a feather on fire and threw it on the ball of hair.
"Boohoo..."
Green flames rose and mimicked the crying sound of a female, which was rather similar to Doris' voice.
Many strands of hair tried to escape, but they were trapped by Leylin within a ball of milky white substance. They had no option but burn into oblivion.
After the green flames died down, what was left behind was a pile of white dust.
Leylin's expression was extremely solemn as he lightly dabbed on the dust. * Hu! * The dust swirled in the air, transforming into a female's face, "Enemy! Enemy!"
"This pathogen contains the poison of an aggrieved soul, no wonder it is so strong!" Leylin shook his head, took out a green-coloured potion, and splashed it onto that female face.
* Sssii! * The human face rapidly turned into white mist, vanishing completely into thin air.
"A.I. Chip, initiate scan!" Leylin ordered.
[Beep! Scan complete. Result: Pathogen in Host body has been completely eradicated!]
Hearing the A.I. Chip, Leylin's face finally revealed his relief.
He stretched lazily and touched the scars on his body, "It's a little unsightly! If Neela were to see these, what would her expression be like?"
After rummaging through the big chest, he found a potion and downed it.
A dozen minutes later, Leylin's superficial layer of skin quivered and forced out the layer of scars and dead skin replacing them with glossier skin.
"Once I got rid of the pathogen, healing the scars on my skin is just a matter of a few potions!"
Leylin touched the scars which were extremely faded now, "I estimate that after one more dose, these will be completely gone!"
Leylin then took out the remainder of the unfortunate black bear's paw and rewarded himself with a good meal.
While eating and drinking until he was full, the sky outside had already dimmed. Leylin lit a small fire inside the cave and began to think of the journey ahead.
"Doris has finally been disposed of. There aren't any pursuers remaining so I can rest easy while travelling!"
"The academy's mission isn't really important. After all, I have 3 years to complete it. I wonder how the academy is faring right now?" Although Leylin could enquire about news concerning Abyssal Bone Forest Academy in the market today, he did not dare to.
Who knows if there might be spies around. If he were to expose his identity, wouldn't that be like walking right into a trap?
He could only wait till he journeyed through half the kingdom before he could safely begin making inquiries.
Such a huge matter will definitely be a hot topic at Magi gathering points. He only has to be careful not to expose any information about himself.
"All of these could be dealt with later, what's important is to hurry and change all the potions into magic crystals. It is simply too inconvenient to lug all these huge chests around!"
Leylin patted the solid hard wooden chest. He thought of the miserable brown horse days ago that seemed like it would die anytime. He smiled bitterly.
"I can't go to the Walker family's market anymore. After all, I have just sold a number of potions there!"
Leylin mentally called up the map and located his current position.
"From the academy to Eastwoods Province, I have to travel through 5 other provinces. I can sell potions along the way. At best, I can only sell potions until Jersha Province.
On the map, the Jersha Province was midway to his destination There were two more provinces separating Eastwoods Province from it.
If he were to sell his potions all the way to Eastwoods Province, wouldn't that mean giving away his itinerary and purpose? Leylin wouldn't be so foolish as to do that.
Although he sold his goods along the way, others may not be able to discover it. After all, the trades did every day were numerous. Leylin, however, would rather be a little more cautious in safeguarding his tracks.
As for Jersha Province, it was in the central region of Poolfield Kingdom and was accessible from all sides. Other people would not be able to guess Leylin's destination at all.
"En!" Anyway, there is still time. If it's necessary I can reroute to further locations. In any case, I must be careful never to reveal my identity!"
Leylin looked the points marked as Magi gathering spots and entered into deep thought...
Two odd months passed.
On a path to Jersha Province, a sturdily built black horse carrying a wooden chest and a black robed man could be seen cantering along.
The black robed man had bright red hair and was extremely handsome.
This was naturally Leylin in disguise.
Ever since that time, as Leylin journeyed, he found some Magi gathering points or some small scale trading sites time to time, where he sold the potions he brewed.
As he only sold a few each time, he did not attract the avarice of other experts. Occasionally, some foolish acolyte blinded by greed would waylay him, but they were completely not his match at all. The most dangerous instance was when a level 3 acolyte brought a group of other acolytes to surround him. Still, Leylin managed to evade them with the help of the A.I. Chip's detection capability.
Through these trades, he acquired a few precious materials, and many books on specialised Magi knowledge, greatly enhancing the data bank of the A.I. Chip.
In these past two months, he finally recorded all the Shadow and Dark Element spell models he purchased previously. He then completely obliterated the contents of the book.
This lightened his luggage tremendously.
After selling a huge portion of his potions and getting rid of those bulky spell books, Leylin could fit all of his belongings into one chest.
According to his projections, he could simply travel with a knapsack after selling the remaining potions.
"I have underestimated the popularity of potions. Right now, I have amassed over 2,000 magic crystals. If not for purchasing information and other miscellaneous items, I might have gotten over 2500 magic crystals!"
Leylin stretched his hands and felt around his robes. A sack of hard texture travelled to his hands. He could not help but smile.
"Fortunately, there are high-grade magic crystals in this Magus World. One piece can be exchanged for 100 ordinary magic crystals. Otherwise, I would have a problem carrying all those magic crystals..."
"A.I. Chip, stat update!" Leylin ordered.
[Beep! Leylin Farlier, level 2 acolyte and Knight. Strength: 2.7, Agility: 2.8, Vitality: 3.0, Spiritual force: 4.6, Magic Power: 4.0. Status: Healthy] The A.I. Chip's voice intoned.
"En! Strength and Agility increased. This is the result of continuous stimulation of my internal Knight energy. After it stabilises, I can begin to gradually take on the next phase of Knight's training. This should raise all my stats to at least 3! As for spiritual force, it only increased a little. This was the only return I got after a number of life and death situations. Magus training, as expected, is only going to get more and more difficult!"
Leylin sighed and mentally projected the map again.
On the huge map, Jersha Province was in the central region of Poolfield Kingdom. There were many small Magus families here.
Although this was the capital of a regular human kingdom, it attracted all sorts of travellers, many wandering Magi, and even criminal Magi.
These Magi, because of their radical opinions, or some other matter, were exiled from their previous association, faced with persecution, or even put up on bounty lists. They turned into wandering Magi, often making them very dangerous people.
"In Jersha Province, it just so happens that there is a huge Magus market controlled by the Redbud family, one of the three big families supporting Abyssal Bone Forest Academy. I will definitely be able to obtain the latest news here!"
In these past two months, Leylin had secretly made inquiries about the various news related to the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy. However, the information he got were all rather vague. He only knew that it was at war with some factions to its west. As for its opponents, and how the academy was faring, everything was extremely hazy.
"We're here, Ellinel Market. I'll sell my remaining potions and ask about news of the academy before resuming my journey."
Leylin decided.
...
In a tiny village's ruined wharf.
"If not for the intelligence report, I would never have believed that the first Magus market in the Poolfield Kingdom would actually be hidden underneath a regular human village".
As Leylin scanned the village's surroundings, a lifeless atmosphere greeted him.
"The Magus market should be below here since there are signs of occasional radiation emanating from it. The villagers above are also definitely sickly, where some might even die suddenly. How would they be able to flourish? I'm afraid after a dozen or so years, this village would become another ghost town!"
Leylin adjusted the grey robes on his body and covered his facial features, before coming to the entrance of a hut made of bricks.
The corroded door let out a dull noise as Leylin knocked lightly.
"Who are you?" An icy voice sounded from inside.
"I am a wandering acolyte, who wishes to have a look at the market!"
* Creak! * The large door opened and revealed a black robed figure.
Leylin was shocked; he felt murderous intent oozing from the black robed figure. This may be a very obscure concept but if one killed too many of their kind, they will definitely be different from others. The feeling that this black robed figure gave Leylin was that many experts of the same level died in his hands.
"As expected of a large market, even the guard is so fierce!" The black robed figure emitted the energy waves of a level 3 acolyte. He even carried a one-time use magical item. It could not escape the A.I. Chip's detection, though.
"No matter if it's your first time or not, I will enumerate the rules. Any fights inside the market will be deemed as a provocation by the Redbud family." The black robed figure said icily.
Only then did Leylin notice the Redbud insignia on his sleeves.
"I understand!" Leylin nodded his head.
"Alright, the fee would be 1 magic crystal!"
After Leylin paid the entry fee, the black robed figure tapped lightly on the fireplace, and steel machinery rumbled. The fireplace swung to the right revealing a flight of stairs going downwards.
"Even the style is reminiscent of the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy!" Leylin shook his head.
After entering the tunnel, the fireplace swung shut, and the passage dimmed once more with only a few lamps dimly glowing in the depths.
Leylin descended the stairs. After he felt he had gone a dozen metres underground, a huge cavern emerged.
The market was extremely huge. It was the size of several football fields. The ceiling was studded with some kind of stalactite that made Leylin wonder if they were natural.
In the middle of the market, buildings built using grey rocks were lined up in a row. Surrounding them was a circle of wooden huts. As for the street stalls, they were actually rather sparse.
Magi and acolytes wore robes of various colours; white, black, and grey-robed people could be seen stepping in and out of the shops.
Leylin began to understand the rules of the Magus World a little better.
Normally, official Magi would either wear black or white, and acolytes would wear grey. White represented the factions that were more peace loving, for example, the healing arts and the like. As for the black robes, they leaned more towards combat, and their dispositions were rather strange too.
Of course, these are the conventionally attired ones. There were also some Magi who wore various odd looking costumes that were rather bizarre.
"Sir, do you need someone to show you around? I only charge 1 magic crystal!" Clamored the little boys and girls who crowded around Leylin.
"No need for that!" Leylin immediately refused.
After visiting a lot of markets, he found out that these guides did not require that much payment. Some of the families controlling these markets even provide free guides to help patrons move around.
The first time he entered a market, he gave a little boy a magic crystal. This was a huge deficit for him.
As for ordinary markets, they were considerably smaller. Circling for a few times would be enough for anyone to become familiar with the place. There were even signs around. So under normal circumstances, patrons do not require guides at all.
Leylin casually strolled inside the market. Later, he walked towards the largest Potion's Shop.
"Greetings Sir!" A white-bearded geezer smiled and bowed.
"I wish to sell a batch of potions. Their prices may be a little high!" Leylin was extremely direct.
"Please follow me!" The old geezer was startled. He immediately brought Leylin to a small booth at the back.
After closing the door, Leylin felt the energy waves generated by an isolation spell formation.
"Our shop extends confidentiality towards our guests. Moreover, we also employ the best safety measures..."The white-bearded geezer smiled as he explained.
"Not bad!" Leylin nodded his head, being able to avoid the crowd was extremely beneficial to him.
There were two sofas within the booth, and between these was a small wooden table with two hot piping drinks on it.
"Please have a seat!" The geezer gestured.
Leylin sat down and reclined on the sofa. He lifted the cup and sniffed lightly, "Powder of Tillan Beans with black pearls added, very beneficial for an acolyte's meditation!"
"Your achievements in Potioneering have left me speechless!" The old geezer's eyes widened in shock.
"Thank you. I have been inside an experiment lab for a year until now working on something important. Please appraise these potions for me!"
Leylin handed over a sack to the old geezer.
The old geezer opened the sack, and immediately cried out, "Eh?!"
In the sack was the remainder of Leylin's potions, each and every one of them glowed resplendently.
"Please wait a minute!" The old geezer took out a monocle and placed it over his eye.
After what seemed like half an hour, the old geezer looked a little exhausted and rubbed his temples after he put the monocle away.
"37 hemostasis potions, 45 antidotes, silence potions...These potions are all of the good quality and have been preserved well. I can give you 900 magic crystals for them!"
"Very fair!" Leylin gently nodded his head.
The old geezer then stored the potions for safekeeping and counted out 9 high-grade magic crystals which he handed over to Leylin.
"Sir, you must be a Potioneering Master? Please keep this; you will be able to enjoy a 10% discount on items and services in our shop. We can also offer a higher price for other potions you may have..."
The old geezer said as he presented a purple card to Leylin with both hands.
Leylin glanced at the card and then pocketed it swiftly, "I'll keep that in mind!"
The old geezer then sent Leylin off. As they bade farewell, Leylin casually asked, "As you know, I've just finished my experiments. Are there places where I may inquire about the latest news on the Poolfield Kingdom?"
The old geezer stared blankly for a while before answering, "If you wish to learn some secrets and the latest intelligence, Gandor's Grocery Shop would be your best choice. Although his temper is a little wacky, but he's the most informed..."
According to the old geezer's direction, Leylin came to Gandor's Grocery Shop.
As he entered, the things inside the shop were very untidy, and various items were lying around. There were even many that the A.I. Chip could not identify.
One thing stood out though, no counterfeit products were inside. This piqued Leylin's interest.
"Who?" A voice sounded from behind the counter. Following which, a geezer, who appeared as if he was on the brink of death, popped out from behind it.
"The geezer from the Potion Shop recommended this place to me. I wish to gather the latest intelligence regarding the Poolfield Kingdom.
"Same old rules, only after buying an item in my shop will you will be able to obtain information from me." The half-dead geezer lips did not move but a mysterious voice could be heard from him.
"Alright! I'll simply pick anything I fancy!" Leylin wanted to pick an item at random.
"No can do, it is I who will choose for you!" The half-dead geezer sniggered.
"No wonder business is so bad here!" Leylin rolled his eyes, "Go ahead then!"
The half-dead geezer rummaged through a shelf at the back of the shop. The wooden shelf made a creaking sound. It looked like it would collapse any moment. Leylin was even worried about him since the shelf looked like it could collapse at any moment.
"I found it!" The half-dead geezer took a black coloured scroll from the shelf.
On this scroll were characters that Leylin did not recognize at all. Its corners were extremely frayed and looked like mice had chewed on it.
"This is a fragment of The great Magus Serholm's spell. I'll sell it to you for only 1,000 magic crystals, an absolutely worthy deal, what do you think?" The half-dead geezer eyes glittered.
"This could even be the inheritance of The Great Magus Serholm! Perhaps, you could advance to high-level Magus after you buy it..."
Leylin was left speechless as he took it in his hands.
"A.I. Chip! Scan!"
[Beep! Confirmed: Carbon dating, document comparison analysis shows this page is composed of human skin! Belongs to: Lowian's teachings: 89.5%, Blue Cobalt rare book: 56.5% and Serholm's writing: 21.7%]
"There exists something like this? A.I. Chip, what is the strength of the geezer opposite me?"
[Estimated level 3 acolyte, based on energy wave emissions, Confirmed: he is in a process of reconstructing his physical body. Degree of similarity: Zombification: 86.6% and Aggrieved Soul Transformation: 45.6%]
Leylin pretended to scrutinize the page for some more time before looking up at the geezer, "This seems like a remnant of the Lowian's teachings. You actually lied to me?"
"How can this be?" The half-dead geezer hurriedly lamented. A flash of shock crossed his eyes, which immediately changed into a cajoling expression.
"Even if it is the Lowian's teachings, this assuredly belongs to Sir Rookmanst, a rank 2 Magus, 2 years ago, this same fragment was sold for 700 magic crystals. So, how about I sell it to you for that price?"
Leylin shook his head, " Lowian's teachings were written in an advanced-coded language. Only an official Magus will be able to decipher the code. Ordinary acolytes will definitely not be able to."
"Furthermore, although the contents were written in code, but their page numbers were written in the Angema language to make it more obscure!" Leylin pointed to the page number at the bottom.
"Look at this, it's only page number 12! According to , the first 30 pages of Lowian's teachings contained only records of his experiments, and insights penned when he was still an acolyte. Only when he turned into an official Magus, did he chance upon an inheritance and he began to display a terrifying talent! As for this overpriced page, the page number should at least be beyond 100 to be believable!"
"Transactions among Magi are based on the premise that the exchanged goods are equal in value. This derelict page of yours is not worth 700 magic crystals. According to my estimate, 70 is its highest asking price." Leylin concluded.
"Yikes...Hahaha! Today's weather isn't bad!" The half-dead man tried putting up a front but finally gave in to Leylin's unwavering gaze.
"Alright, I never expected to meet a very erudite scholar! Take your pick then!"
"No need, I came here to gather intelligence! I'll just buy it at a fair price." Leylin held onto the black coloured page and placed 7 middle-grade magic crystals on the table.
Although the coding on this derelict page could only be deciphered by an official Magus, Leylin wished to give the A.I. Chip a shot at breaking the code. After all in terms of processing ability, Leylin was confident that the A.I. Chip's ability was much better than even an official Magus', despite this being his first attempt at such.
"Alright! Alright! What do you want to ask?" The half-dead geezer sprawled on the table and ate the magic crystals one by one. Leylin was rather shocked by this scene.
"I require a lot of energy. If you were to give me another 1,000 magic crystals I would've definitely completed my physical body's restructuring..." The half-dead geezer's expression was resentful.
Leylin shook his head, "Tell me news about Abyssal Bone Forest Academy!"
"Abyssal Bone Forest Academy! You are an acolyte there?"
"Only some interest in the happenings over there. Besides, I don't want to suffer any collateral damage from the war!"
"Alright!" The half-dead geezer did not ask anymore. "I graduated from there too. Now Abyssal Bone Forest Academy's situation isn't that great. I heard that Sage Gotham's Hut and Whitewoods Castle teamed up to go against Abyssal Bone Forest Academy in this war..."
The half-dead geezer spoke endlessly.
Half a day later, Leylin walked out from the grocery shop with an extremely miserable face. "I never thought that the situation would already be this bad. It seems like I need to stay out here longer than I expected."
According to the half-dead geezer, the reason for the war had long since been forgotten. What mattered was that Sage Gotham's Hut and Whitewoods Castle were factions on the same level as Abyssal Bone Forest Academy. Their alliance placed Abyssal Bone Forest Academy in a disadvantageous position. Right now, the academy could only rely on its defence spell formation to resist.
"A.I. Chip, how long will it take to decode this page?"
Leylin felt the derelict page of the Lowian's teachings. Although it was made from human skin, Leylin still wrapped it well and kept it within his robes.
[Beep! Analysis in progress! No comparable code found in the databank. Will require conjecture...Estimated time to completion: 93 days 13 hours!]
"3 odd months? I can do that!" Leylin stroked his chin as he casually strolled around the market.
What he had told the half-dead geezer earlier was the truth, but Leylin simply wanted to gamble upon the A.I. Chip's abilities. Even if it did not work out, the information the half-dead geezer had provided was worth at least 20 to 30 magic crystals.
Although the page number of the Lowian's teachings' derelict journal page was pretty low and contained mostly information for acolytes, for a level 2 acolyte like Leylin, it still was pretty useful.
There may even be some of Rookmanst's meditation techniques, experiment records or even some discovery of resources. If he could discover them, Leylin would benefit immensely.
In any case, the processing capabilities of the A.I. Chip were very impressive. Leylin had not even used half of its capabilities, just letting it sit idle for most of the time. He might as well use this downtime for deciphering the code.
Leylin's footsteps did not stop until he walked out of Ellinel Market.
The exit was at the side of the village and was actually beneath a stack of hay. It was also guarded by a black-robed man with theRedbud insignia.
"A.I. Chip! Initiate area scan!" After walking out of the village, Leylin ordered after walking out of the village.
A faint light blue screen was projected in front of Leylin's eyes, clearly identifying a sneaky figure tailing him from behind. In the whole light blue projection, the red dot was extremely obvious.
[Target's identified. strength estimated at level 2 acolyte. No magic artifact detected!] The A.I. Chip's voice intoned.
"Only a level 2 acolyte huh? Seems like it's not any huge faction, but only an avaricious dog after some wealth!"
Leylin's eyes flashed coldly, "If I didn't have other plans ..."
The level 2 acolyte tailing Leylin seemed to be extremely patient. Only after Leylin was a dozen miles away from the vicinity of the market did he make his sneak attack!
* Whoosh! * Suddenly two balls of mud rose beneath Leylin's feet, turning into two yellow-brown coloured hands that tightly held down Leylin's ankles.
A dagger suffused with purple light immediately stabbed towards Leylin's back.
"Success!" yelled the sneak attacking acolyte whose face was flushed with joy. He belatedly realised that Leylin had mysteriously dissolved, turning into a vine with thorns that coiled around his body.
The thorns mercilessly dug into flesh. The acolyte could even feel the vine come alive and was greedily feeding on his blood.
"Damn! It's a golem! What is this spell! Shadow Embodiment? Leeching Vines?" As the acolyte lost huge amounts of blood, he increasingly became muddleheaded.
"Ah! You can't do this! Please...Please spare me..."
The acolyte pleaded. Alas, the immediately the vines squirmed and sealed his mouth.
* Bang! * The spell's effect disappeared, and on the ground was left the shrivelled corpse of the acolyte.
Against his enemies, Leylin was never merciful.
...
The second day, Leylin once again visited the market.
"Sir! Do you need a guide? I only require 1 magic crystal!" The noisy little kids were still clamouring at the entrance.
Today Leylin had changed his clothes. And to conceal himself even further, he changed his appearance too.
Although his previous face was a fake, there was no guaranteed special spell effect that could penetrate and see through the cloak.
As for energy waves and the sort, Leylin was not too worried about it. Yesterday he deliberately avoided official Magi, so his energy waves would never be recorded.
To capture the energy waves generated by the spiritual force, an official Magus has to make enough preparations beforehand. There wouldn't be any Magi who had nothing better to do.
"You'll do!" Leylin randomly picked a little girl.
"Thank you! Sir, I am extremely familiar with this place!" The little girl was a little overjoyed. She wore a white coloured dress and looked to be somewhat thin.
After tossing a magic crystal to the girl, Leylin said slowly, "I wish to enter a higher leveled area!"
His voice was modified to sound different from the day before.
"A higher leveled area? You mean...The second level?" The little girl asked a little hesitantly.
"Of course!" This was the point to the experience Leylin patiently amassed after coming to the market many times. These markets weren't very huge, and Leylin always felt that something was missing. Certain precious resources were absent in these markets too. These little children guides most likely stood here waiting for powerful customers to bring them to the more concealed areas.
"Since you know about the second level, then you should also understand that if you don't have an item worth over 1000 magic crystals or a guarantor, you will be denied entry."
"Naturally I do! Lead the way!" The little girl raised her head, yet she was unable to discern the expression behind Leylin's cloak. She could only lower her head and lead the way.
"Although there should be many official Magi on the second level, there is no choice. The two ancient formulas, Azure Potion, and Tears of Mary, plus many of their ingredients have not been collected yet. If I can't even find it here, biggest Magus market, then there is completely no chance anymore. I can only look for substitute ingredients!"
Leylin's expression was rather dark. As he journeyed, he sold potions along the way and did his utmost to collect all of the ingredients of the two ancient potions. However, he was met with little success so far. Ellinel Market was the second largest gathering of Magi after Abyssal Bone Forest Academy. If he couldn't find what he needed here, then Leylin was completely helpless.
Leylin followed the little girl. They arrived at a rather deserted alley.
She used a stone found on a wall corner of the wall to knock.
* Bang! * The alley's walls shifted, revealing an underground passage.
"Here it is!" The little girl said softly, as if very afraid.
"Lead the way!" Leylin followed the little girl and they continued walking downwards. Several minutes later, they reached a door at the end of the passage.
Two level 3 acolytes wearing blood red robes were standing guard. According to the A.I. Chip's scan, they carried magic artifacts on their bodies. This slightly startled Leylin. At the same time, he was filled with curiosity towards the market behind it.
The little girl went forward and exchanged a few words with the two acolytes before walking back to Leylin. She curtseyed, "Most respected Sir, I can only lead you this far!"
When she finished speaking, she hurriedly ran back up the flight of stairs disappearing into the darkness.
"It seems like there is something in this premium market that terrifies her!" Leylin thought indifferently as he walked towards the two acolytes.
"An item of proof, or an item worth at least 1000 magic crystals!" A red robed acolyte said icily. Standing before them, Leylin could somehow sense the wails of aggrieved souls hovering around them.
"What terrifying people!" Leylin thought inwardly. He tossed over a small sack containing 10 high-grade magic crystals.
The red robed acolyte opened and looked before tossing the sack back to Leylin. He then opened the door behind him.
Leylin walked in unhurriedly. Only after the large door closed behind him, was he inclined to observe the area in front of him.
This field was most likely beneath the market earlier. Its surface area was smaller, only having a street traversing it.
From time to time Magi walked past. Since it was not very crowded, the distance between passersby was rather far. There were almost no level 1 acolytes here. Level 2 acolytes too were very few. Most of the people here were level 3 acolytes. Their bodies all radiated strong energy waves. Official Magi too were rather common.
...
Leylin inhaled deeply and walked down the street...
Half an hour later, Leylin walked out of a stone hut with a Potion sign, his face had obvious signs of joy.
They had the main ingredients Kroft mentioned, as well as the rest of the ingredients, "It is indeed the largest market!"
The main ingredients of the two ancient potions, Azure Potion, and Tears of Mary, were the most important. As for other ingredients, they were easier to acquire. Being able to buy them all at once exceeded Leylin's expectations.
Leylin spent more than half of the 1000 magic crystals he prepared to purchase these ingredients. He was still satisfied, though, and felt that the expense was worth it.
Putting away the ingredients, he anticipated that he had to find a safe place and begin brewing the potions. His mood was rather good. He even felt inclined to stroll around a bit.
The goods here were obviously of a higher grade than the market above. Leylin even saw a low-grade magic artifact dagger for sale.
However, the price was at least 400 magic crystals, which immediately made Leylin stop feeling lucky.
Suddenly, Leylin heard noisy clamouring voices travelled over leaving Leylin a little startled. He tracked these voices and made a new discovery.
"Slave market?"
What Leylin saw in front of him was a large fenced area. Many stark naked slaves were standing behind fences. Their faces showed either numb indifference or extreme humiliation as they let the acolytes and Magi take their pick.
"Just right! I'll need a few slaves myself!"
Leylin wanted to stay in Extreme Night Town for around 3 years. He could not manage many things by himself. Originally, he planned to recruit a few guards and servants when he got there, but a few high-grade slaves were now conveniently available.
After all, they were all raised or controlled by Magi. This lent their owner better security and assured functionality.
"Sir! What do you think? Do you need a female slave for your bed?" Look, these are all good quality ones, some are even of the nobility.
A slave trader looked as Leylin walked forward. The slaver hurriedly patted the ample breasts of a group of female slaves behind him, which carried a rippling wave effect.
Behind him were a dozen utterly naked noblewomen. Their skin was extremely smooth, and their figures were quite vivacious. Even if they were slaves, their aura of nobility could not be stifled.
"How did they end up here? I mean, as nobles, wouldn't it be troublesome?" Leylin was a little curious.
"Please don't worry, these are all nobles who fought and lost in battles. Their fiefdoms have long since been usurped and their families destroyed. They are legally under the death sentence. There will absolutely be no trouble at all.
The trader smugly explained.
Leylin looked behind a noblewoman who was being dragged away. There was obviously a noble young lady standing there. He could not help but think of the young noble lady he met previously in the woods. If her revenge failed, who knows if she'll be sold at this place too.
"How are they? Buy a couple, and it's up to you how you play them! After you're sick of them, you can use them for your experiments. Even if they die, it's not a problem!" The trader did his utmost to entice him.
Leylin shook his head, "I wish to purchase a few guards, preferably of a Knight's level. Also, I will need a few assistants for my experiments!"
"If it's like this!" The trader stroked his chin, "What you're looking for are premium slaves, and their price will be extraordinary! Of course, those who are able to enter here are customers with strength. Please follow me!"
Leylin walked behind the trader and saw many slaves. Some of them were well-built youths while some were still children. They were all staring outside from behind the fence looking fearful. From time to time a few Magi pointed at them or even walked forward to inspect them.
Leylin even saw a group of Magi surrounding a few beastmen and marine species slaves, bidding over them.
The trader pulled Leylin to a large tent, and called a fatty over, "This is my friend, Dylan. Right, he has some premium goods."
Leylin did not know what Dylan whispered to the trader, but after a while, the trader laughed heartily as he walked away. Only then Dylan smile towards Leylin and said, "Most respected guest, I have already understood your requirements! We just received a new batch of premium slaves, please follow me!"
Leylin followed Dylan into a large white-coloured tent.
A smell of incense inside permeated the air. It masked the musky unwashed odor of the slaves and various bodily excrement. Despite this, the atmosphere was much better than outside.
The slaves in here wore some thin clothes that could somewhat cover their private areas.
Dylan brought Leylin to a few extremely muscled guys, "They were all raised and taught by a Knight! How do they look? I dare say these definitely meet your requirement!"
Leylin nodded his head and walked towards a large bald guy, "A.I. Chip! Stat Scan!"
[Beep! Target's Strength: 3.1, Agility: 2.8, Vitality: 2.9, Spiritual force: 1.5. Status: Dowsed in neurotoxin!]
The other Knight level slaves' stats were more or the less similar. Leylin observed that their pupils were widened and somewhat dispirited.
"The mind of these Knights seem to have been affected by something..."
Dylan hurriedly smiled apologetically, "Knights' resistances are always higher than normal, to meet the various needs of our customers, we are unable to use standard marking to control their consciousness! They have all undergone constant brainwashing and corporeal subjugation. Furthermore, they were controlled by drugs, turning them into high-level servants. Although they might not be as bright as regular Knights, they are still able to understand some simple commands.
Branding of the consciousness was what official Magi used to control their servants. However, it was somewhat ineffective if acolytes were to use it.
Dylan obviously noticed Leylin's strength before offering this batch of goods to him.
"It's not bad, what's the price?" Leylin asked.
"100 magic crystals each!" Dylan replied.
Leylin nodded his head and picked out two with the best stats. After paying the magic crystals, he received a scorpion-like organism from Dylan.
"The sting of this Desert Scorpion contains a unique poison. These poisonous secretions from this scorpion were used on your two slaves. If they do not take the antidote produced by the scorpion in 10 days time, they will die horribly! Of course, this is should be used as a last resort to control them. After all, during their training, they have already been brainwashed to obey their Master's commands! Now, the lives of these two Knights are yours!"
Dylan respectfully handed the box containing the scorpion's sting.
Leylin nodded his head and kept the box. "Also, I require a serving maid, one who can take on the role of assistant during experiments..."
As Leylin walked out of the market, two Knights wearing armour and a delicate yet pretty maid followed behind him.
The maid's eyes were limpid and she wore a black cotton dress. According to Dylan, this maid received extensive training since she was young. She was more than capable to take on the role of an assistant for simple experiments. She met Leylin's requirements rather well. Moreover, she had taken the Mandara Flower's essence, which could counteract the radiation from a Magus. This kept her looking youthful.
The cost was her life span, which was shortened to only 30 years.
"Ellinel Market did pretty well in designing this level. We can actually choose our exits freely. However, this is a service only premium customers may enjoy!"
When Leylin and his servants appeared, they were no longer at the small village. They were at the outer walls of a city.
This was a premium service provided by the Ellinel Market, but there was also a fee for it.
If this helped him avoid more trouble, it was worth it for Leylin who was not very strong right now.
"Master!" The Knights and the maid knelt and saluted him.
"En!" Leylin nodded his head indifferently, "Do you have names?"
The two Knights looked at each other, and their eyes dimmed eventually, "No, please grant us one, Master!" The maid too shook her head and indeed seemed rather pitiful.
"You will be called Greem! He pointed to the larger Knight. "You will be called Fraser!" This was another Knight.
"As for you!" Leylin looked at the beautiful maid, "Anna will do!"
"Thank you for granting us names, Master. We will loyally engrave it in our hearts!" The three subordinates knelt on the ground and kissed Leylin's shoe.
"Alright." Leylin waved his hands and got them to stand. He then looked at his surroundings.
It seemed to be a small forest, and there was even the silhouette of a large city ahead. It was, at least, ten times bigger than the city he was in earlier. The entrance had carriages and carts going in and out. It seemed to be flourishing.
"Greem! Go buy a horse carriage in the city, I'll wait for you here!" Leylin tossed a black purse to the larger Knight.
"Also, buy some goods for our journey, as well as some clothes!" Leylin instructed him.
Even since he destroyed his chest of spell books and sold all his potions, His remaining possessions amounted to over 3000 magic crystals all in all. His luggage too was reduced by more than half. He could fit all of them in a knapsack. As for the camping items he used previously, he already destroyed them before going to the market to save himself the trouble of going back.
"Yes, Sir!" Greem took the money purse and bowed slightly as he was about to leave.
"Also, don't call me Sir from now on, Young Master will do!" Leylin touched his youthful face and was somewhat stumped.
"We obey!" The three of them knelt on the ground.
Seeing the figure of Greem leaving, Leylin suddenly turned and asked Fraser, "Do you have any inkling of the time before you became a slave?"
Fraser had brown hair and blue eyes, and his body was littered with scars. Moreover, his age could not be determined, but he seemed to have had an abundance of experiences and suffering.
"I can't remember anymore! Every time I try, I feel a splitting pain in my head." Fraser touched his forehead as if trying to recall something. His visage crumpled with pain.
"So it's like this!" Leylin surmised that it could be the influence of some drug or spell that was only effective on normal humans. Right now he could probably break it if he spent some time on it, but he absolutely had no intention of doing so.
After all, his objective was to acquire subordinates, not to seek trouble. Those who were captured as slaves were the losers of battles and wars. If they were to recover their memories and seek Leylin's help, what should he do then? Even if they don't, who knows if they will continue remaining loyal to him.
"How about you?" Leylin looked at the shy Anna.
Anna's skin was extremely white and gave off a milky glow. It made Leylin impulsively want to touch her. Her face too was extremely exquisite like a doll's.
"Anna has been raised by a merchant since childhood, and was eventually sold to Sir Dylan..."
"For a maid like her, it was naturally more convenient to groom her at a very young age. Moreover, she had to learn various knowledge, and grooming of etiquette. Only then would she deserve the fondness of those higher ups. Of course, she had to take some lessons in pleasing men. Anna looked at Leylin who was still shrouded in the cloak, unable to discern his countenance. However, based on the voice alone, deduced that it should belong to a younger person. She could not help but blush.
What lessons have you taken before? How much do you know about the Magi?"
"I have learnt and , but...but only some preparations of simple ingredients. Anna is not an acolyte. For experiments that require the use of energy particles, I am powerless in that area...My apologies, Young Master!" Anna's fingers clenched her dress and seemed discomfited.
"That's not bad at all." Leylin was actually satisfied.
He had many secrets. Letting an outsider join his experiments was inappropriate. Helping him with basic preparations was already good enough.
If he wanted a Magus assistant, he or she must be at least acolyte level. This level of a slave is extremely expensive and was always riddled with problems too.
Although he did not see any in the slave market, Leylin knew that some other place in the market, there would be another slave market that specialised in selling acolytes as slaves.
After all, for many Dark Magi, it was only acolytes who could resist radiation, were to best subjects for their experiments.
As to sources of such acolyte slaves, they made use of war criminals or prisoners.
If Abyssal Bone Forest Academy was completely defeated, and the headquarters seized, then the fate of all the acolytes in the academy- apart from the ones backed by strong factions- will most likely end up as slaves.
As for people like Leylin who escaped earlier, he could only draw a clear line between himself and the academy in future. And take the four seas as his home, becoming a pitiable wanderer.
"Right now, I can only pray that the academy wins... Even if they lose, I hope they don't lose badly..." Leylin looked towards the west, his expression a little grim.
Seeing Young Master become pensive, Anna and Fraser bowed their heads too, not daring to utter a word.
With the noise of rolling wheels gradually getting closer, Leylin could see a Knight driving a horse carriage, the appearance seemed to be Greem.
The horse carriage was pitch black in colour and did not have much in the way of patterns on it. The merchants who sold the carriage did not know if Greem belonged to the nobility, so they did not dare inscribe on the carriage. However, it looked extremely sturdy. A couple of large black horses were pulling it, dashing rapidly towards Leylin.
"Young Master!" Greem got down the carriage, and handed the money purse back to Leylin with both hands, "The carriage cost..."
"No need for further discussion." Leylin took it over, and then threw the money purse to Anna, "In the future you will deal with the finances, if there is not enough then ask me!"
"Yes, Young Master!' Anna carefully kept the money purse.
In it were only a few gold coins used by normal humans. Leylin only required a little effort to get as much as he wanted. What he was concerned about were the magic crystals, the currency used in the Magus World.
It was a pity that even in the South Coastal Regions, magic crystals were in extremely high demand as currency. After visiting so many markets, Leylin could see shops exchange coins for magic crystals, but never the other way round.
These were his subordinates in the future. After thinking for a while, Leylin undid his hood. and revealed a dashing face. His appearance, however, was still in its slightly altered state.
"You will be my trusted aides in the future, so take a look at my true appearance!"
The reason why Leylin disguised himself was to buy and sell resources. Right now since all his potions were sold, he did not need a disguise. These people also had to meet Leylin daily, so they will definitely see his true appearance--so the sooner the better.
After Leylin removed the spell, the muscles of his face twitched, and returned back to his original youthful visage.
Seeing Anna and the rest nod their heads, Leylin commanded, "Let's set off towards Eastwoods Province!"