Chapter 1684 - WMW 57

"What happens after we enter the pocket dimension? Are we going to be working together or alone?" Leylin asked unhurriedly from the side, taking a bite of the roast meat.

Kesha was gazing at Robin attentively. The reason she was here was due to the temptation of the precious materials in the pocket dimension. It was natural not to choose to work together.

"You can do as you wish!" Robin answered without hesitation.

"I have a general topographic map here, but it lacks a lot of information. Take a look!" Robin had evidently made preparations earlier and produced two maps, giving one each to Kesha and Leylin.

"Of course, after we get everything, I hope we can discuss or perhaps exchange a few things. If anyone here plans to sell their precious materials, the other two shall have the preemptive right to purchase them!" Robin was very thoughtful, and since Kesha and Leylin had no issues with that, they both nodded.

...

A snaking river flowed out from underground, the sound of surging water echoing throughout the cavity in this underground world, making it feel even more oppressive.

In another area, not only were there powerful defensive spell formation set-ups and runes that glimmered, there were even Magi and beings of other races patrolling the area.

Though these people looked pitiful wearing clothes filled with creases and patches, their auras were very powerful and wild.

Leylin and his group all entered Shadow Stealth state and snuck in.

Not far away from them, black bear humanoids—upright creatures with animal skins around their waists as well as other accessories—were standing guard.

"Barbarian Bears!" This was the first time Leylin had seen such a creature.

Unlike the half-beastmen who had escaped from the laboratories, Barbarian Bears were truly from another world. They were extremely intelligent, and their bodies were very resilient.

An adult Barbarian Bears was comparable to a rank 1 Branded Swordsman or Bio Booster, as well as other sub-branches of ancient Magi. After awakening, the power of their totems, elder Barbarian Bears, and Barbarian Bear Shamans could gain the ability to obtain magic with offerings, and turn into frightening magicians.

Just this tribe alone could take on the role as the kings in the Forgotten Land.

In front of Leylin, there were no less than a hundred elite Barbarian Bear warriors, as well as numerous elders and Barbarian Bear Shamans.

And their opponents were not limited to Barbarian Bears.

A few short green creatures strolled past the Barbarian Bears patrol group, holding multi-colour staffs with different ores and gems embedded into them. These staffs emitted detection magic, which caused Leylin to back up.

These green creatures were very similar to gnomes, though their larger heads were like watermelons, large and round. Their skin was a wretched green.

These were the Green-skinned barbarian Magi. Favouring the ability to cast spells, they had abandoned the advantage of strength. Their spiritual force and magic power were terrifying. Every single one of them was akin to a human rank 2 Magus, and some even emanated the strength of rank 3.

"What do we do?" Kesha's voice travelled into Leylin's ear.

"Don't act recklessly. Look!" Leylin pointed in another direction.

At the side of the river, brown vines crawled all over a brown rock. It looked very normal, but this immediately attracted Robin and Kesha's attention.

"It's an alarm spell pattern that targets hidden fluctuations in the air. It's concealed very well. If not for Leylin's warning, we'd all have been deceived!"

Robin gritted his teeth, "Let's withdraw first."

They exchanged glances and left the underground, while the other Black Horrall Warlocks followed closely behind.

*Boom!* Once they got to another safe area, Robin's expression darkened, and cracks appeared under his feet from his stomps.

"Those wretched traitors to humanity! They must have set up those alarm spell patterns. If not, it'd be impossible for the Barbarian Bears and Green-skinned Barbarians to come up with this technique even if they had ten thousand more years to do so!"

Robin walked in circles, evidently very annoyed. Within the Forgotten Land, besides the Barbarian Bears and Green-skinned Barbarians, there were organisations formed entirely out of fugitive human Magi. There had always been three main forces here.

In order to protect this common asset of theirs that was the pocket dimension, they had obviously teamed up.

"Didn't we discuss this matter some time ago? Though this is the worst situation, we have made the required preparations. Relax, your emotional state does not seem too good."

Kesha watched Robin, whose eyes were turning red, and quickly warned, "Damn it. Leylin, Robin's probably going to have another episode!"

"Hm?" Upon hearing this, Leylin was stunned and turned to look at Robin's bewitching handsome face. It was now distorted, and bloodlust was beginning to converge.

This was obviously an effect of the emotional instability caused by his bloodline, resulting in Robin losing his senses.

"Wake up! Robin, you might need it!" A high-grade potion of tranquility appeared in Leylin's hands as he stared at Robin.

Besides Noah and Kesha, the few other Black Horrall Snake Warlocks had retreated a distance.

It was not out of fear of being hurt by accident, but because of the bloodline, Robin's outburst might even affect their own bloodline and cause them to descend into a state of confusion.

"No, I've had enough of that potion!" Robin's eyes were gradually turning red, dense spiritual particles almost solidifying in front of him.

"Has your uncle been having these episodes lately?" Leylin asked Noah while watching Robin.

"No! It hasn't been that long since the last episode. With the potion and suppression from the spell formations, it shouldn't be happening again so soon…" Noah looked helpless.

"What should we do? If he really goes crazy, he'll definitely kill us!" Kesha stood beside Leylin, now evidently on the same side.

"What else can be done? Hold him down and force him to calm down!"

Leylin's eyes turned amber, and a pair of vertical pupils produced a terrifying chill.

After a few advancements, Leylin's bloodline was even more concentrated, and the aura of the Giant Kemoyin Serpent had also risen.

This feeling was most evident to Robin. He took several steps back, his expression alternating between mania and rationality.

"Robin, we're helping you!" At this moment, Kesha went forward, a powerful aura emanating from her body.

The two of them worked together and evidently gave Robin a terrifying amount of pressure.

At this moment, while he was breathing heavily, the rational expression stayed on his face longer.

"You're right." Robin's voice became coarse and thick, completely different from the gentility it held before.

He produced a high-grade potion of tranquility from his spatial equipment and gulped it down.

A bracelet formed using white crystals was glimmering with tiny white rays, producing a chill that spread in all directions.

"Hah…" Robin let out a long breath, his expression becoming gentle.

He took a look around, eyes clear and wise, "Many thanks, everyone. I'm better now!"

"That's great!" Noah cheered, while Kesha and Leylin looked like a weight had been lifted off their shoulders.

If Robin really were to act up now, they would have to give up on the plan despite their unwillingness not to.

"Robin, what's going on? Why did it suddenly happen?" Kesha expressed her disapproval towards Robin.

"My apologies! The outburst of emotion was to sudden, and I could not control it at all…" Robin laughed wryly.

The defect of emotional instability caused by the bloodline had always been an issue for Warlocks. Even with all types of suppression potions and spell formations, they could only ease the issue, not cure it.

This was why Leylin's potions of tranquility were in such high demand.

'With Robin's strength and thoughts, he shouldn't be stirred up so easily and invoke the emotions from his bloodline. Looks like there's something he must have from the pocket dimension, which caused him to be so irritated and be made susceptible to those emotions…' Leylin rationalized.

Compared to other high-ranked Warlocks, he had used the breath of the Icy Jade Scorpion Emperor to treat his bloodline in Twilight Zone. That was why he had experienced no episodes till now.

Based on the A.I. Chip's simulations and Leylin's own calculations, he did not have to worry about this until he reached the Morning Star realm. Other Warlocks would not be so fortunate.

Even a rank 3 Hydro Phase Warlock like Robin would often be affected by these emotions.

As for Kesha? Leylin's eyes swept past her, and he found at least three types of spell patterns that acted as alarms and bloodline-suppressors.

"Alright, now we think about what happens at the end of the plan," Leylin spoke, gathering Robin and Kesha's attention.

"Though we are now a distance away from the pocket dimension and have also especially set up a concealing spell formation, an outburst of aura like what just happened could be sensed by our opponents.

"We need to decide on what to do as soon as possible."

Upon hearing this, Robin looked sorry and embarrassed. This whole situation was caused by him.

Rank 3 Warlocks, merely by using their auras, could generate giant energy undulations, and it was unknown whether their setup was enough to conceal that.

"It can't be helped. We should enter stealthily, and if it doesn't work, we barge in!" Robin gritted his head and made his choice.

"Now that they might have discovered the undulations and are coming here, we should just head straight to the entrance of the pocket dimension. As I am the reason for the delay, I will place myself at the back of the group and enter after all of you have done so."

Robin bowed slightly.

At the rear, he would require much strength to face the crazed counter-attacks from other powers. Even Robin would find this difficult to bear, which made his sincerity clear.

Hence, Leylin and Kesha immediately agreed to Robin's suggestion.

-x-X-x-

Leylin and Kesha were both unemotional, knowing that it was not the time for any disputes. Their opportunity was fleeting, and could not be wasted.

Approximately ten seconds later, everyone entered Shadow Stealth and left.

A huge formidable energy undulation suddenly broke through the spell and created a violent explosion, just like a prominent bonfire in the darkness of the night.

Of course, this was intentionally set up by Leylin and company.

And with the continuous transmission of the energy undulations, some brilliant rays shone in their direction…

"We're here! This is the furthest we can go, any further and we might alert the alarms that were set up, even in Shadow Stealth. The spell has too many defects that can be probed.

Robin led everyone into a hiding spot and then stopped his steps.

Leylin looked over and from where he stood, he was able to see to the bottom of the flowing river, In the middle of which was a huge whirlpool. The continuously whirling water sparkled on occasion, and some green Barbarian Bears and human Magi started to emerge from it.

"The entrance to this pocket dimension is unexpectedly just a whirlpool…." Leylin nodded his head. The undulations that were being emitted by the whirlpool did not seem to be fake.

He was deciding on a path of approach.

Leylin took a closer look at the surroundings of the whirlpool. The A.I. Chip was working at full power, forming a 3D map of the area in his mind. The enemy's defense was naturally strong, with some large structures and a sentry system in place for defense. There were even some rank 3 Magi standing guard.

Leylin shifted his line of sight to the center and shot a glance at a Barbarian Bear. It had a thick neck with a weird looking flag on its back. There was another big headed, very old looking Green-skinned Barbarian. Lastly, there was an unassuming human Mage robed in grey.

"These three…" Leylin's pupils dilated, "They're at least at Hydro Phase. As for the Barbarian Bear, it might already be at the Crystal Phase!"

Leylin and company were nearly equal in power to these Magi, and only held a slight edge in power. Once the patrols were counted in, numbering ten times their own, it would be very difficult to defeat them.

"I will make use of the secret gem to cover up our tracks. Wait for my signal and move together. My men and I will take care of the back!" Robin took out a black ring and spoke in a heavy tone.

Leylin and Kesha both nodded their heads, and walked in a straight line towards the whirlpool in the dark river.

There were some scattered buildings around where they were that looked brand new. It also had a rugged feel to it, most likely made by the Barbarian Bears. Leylin and company were amongst the shadowy construction area and moved progressively towards the centre with the help of the shadows of some patrolmen.

"If they come ten metres closer to us, we will attack!" Robin's voice sounded out, the tone oppressive.

Rank 3 Magi were very sharp and alert. As soon as they came close, the party would certainly be discovered.

In the midst of the crack in the shadows, the outside world seemed like it was covered with a layer of fog, almost like a starch paste. It was very vague and fuzzy.

However, Leylin could clearly sense them advancing.

One metre… two metres… three metres...

Another seven meters to go and Leylin and the rest of the Warlocks would have the confidence to breach their defence and wipe them out completely before heading for the pocket dimension.

*Woo woo…* At this very moment, something unexpected suddenly happened. The decorative flag on the back of the Barbarian Bear started to flap and shudder.

A strange skull symbol on the scarlet red patch of the flag started to open its mouth, revealing a mouthful of sharp teeth as it wailed loudly.

"Intruder!" The Barbarian Bear stood up and hissed. The sound engulfing the entire area.

"Damn, we've been exposed! Charge!" A singular ray of brilliance shone through the hollowness and Robin appeared to take the lead.

"Innate poison!" Immediately, he opened up his poison domain.

In a split second, an invisible and terrifying ripple originated from Robin and started to spread. The surrounding patrolmen immediately started to collapse one after the other, with some dying on the spot and their bodies decomposing thereafter.

"Toxic Bile! You are a Warlock from the Ouroboros Clan!" The average-looking Magus wearing the grey robe clenched his teeth, as if he had some deep-seated hatred with the Ouroboros Clan.

"Activate the rank 5 poison defense spell formation!" He ferociously raised his hands and clapped.

A burst of intense brilliance erupted and a huge spell was cast, rays of green falling on every Magus present.

Like a protective armor, the spread of the green rays enveloped the Magi. Although the armor was trembling continuously, it resisted the attack of the Toxic Bile. As for the rest of the Magi around Robin, they were completely doomed for, even with the assistance of the spell formation.

"All of these sinners deserve death! Do not show mercy!" Kesha and Leylin entered the scene with her yell as she launched her own attack of poison. The rest of the Magi soon followed suit.

In the blink of an eye, the Kemoyin Serpent poison built up, repeatedly overlapping and growing. The formidable power increased to such an extent that even Leylin raised his eyebrows in awe.

*Zi Zi!* The green rays of brilliance were corroding the armor. The other Magi and tribes who were standing behind could not hide their stunned faces.

"Kill!" The huge Barbarian Bear said coldly after a loud roar. The muscles on its body bulged, and the velvet fur stood on end as its physique immediately widened.

As for the big-headed Green-skinned Barbarian, it quickly took out multiple bottles of different sizes, as if ready to cast spells.

"Leave him to me. You deal with the rest!" Robin looked over at the grey-robed Magus with fervour.

"I remember now, he is a Magus from Lone Zither, the sole survivor of the massacre."

At the mention of this name, the grey robed Magus' face turned blood red, "Today, I shall avenge the death of my teachers and classmates!"

*Vroom!* A ball of black flame ignited from his body just like a human shaped column and dashed towards Robin.

"Seeing how things have developed till now, I can only go all out!"

Without any other choices, Leylin shrugged his shoulders and, with lightning speed, tossed out multiple test tubes and bottles containing potions.

"Potion combination spell—Divine Prairie Flame! "

A large number of fire snakes swirled and engulfed everyone who was desperately trying to defend against the Kemoyin Poison. Huge billows of smoke rose in the air along with their pitiful cries as a violent and deafening explosion erupted from the blaze.

'It costs ten times as much to cast a spell here as it does outside. We need to preserve some strength to defend ourselves in case enemy troops catch up with us, so…' Leylin drew out the black Meteor Sword from his waist.

The grooves on its blade buzzed continuously, as if thirsting for blood.

"Cross Slash!" Leylin grasped his fallen sword and delivered a single forward hack!

A black cross-shaped ray from the edge of the blade streaked across and dismembered a majority of the Magi into pieces. The Kemoyin poison from the blade immediately caused their flesh to decompose.

"We are not here to kill people. We only have to get into the pocket dimension!"

Leylin looked at the surroundings and saw the human grey robed Magus blocked by Robin, while Kesha had picked to go up against the huge Barbarian Bear. He found it puzzling as to why she liked such big challenges.

Noah, on the other hand, led the Black Horrall Snake Magi and continued with the attack.

The entire field was a sea of confusion and chaos. An urgent bugle horn sounded and Leylin could feel the rays of light that chased them making their way back rapidly.

"Foreign human, do you also long for the Forgotten Land's pocket dimension?"

With a brain that was twice the size of a regular human and a body covered with endless wrinkles, the Green-skinned Barbarian was done with it's poison concoction and positioned itself in front of Leylin, revealing it's few teeth that were stained yellow.

"I didn't expect you to be a Potions Master as well!" Leylin looked intently at the grey coloured alms bowl the Green-skinned Barbarian was holding. In it was a bubbling dense green liquid.

"Get out of my way!" The fallen sword in Leylin's hand created endless blade rays.

A huge ray of brilliance swiped across the ground and left a long deep gush.

"You shall make a fine addition to my, Modris', collection!"

The Green-skinned Barbarian laughed. With it's exceptionally nimble hands and the constant undulations on its body increasing steadily, it seemed as if it was more powerful than Leylin!

*Swish! Swish!* The clever Green-skinned Barbarian split his body into three parts, and in turn each part grew as a whole. It headed straight for Leylin at full speed.

"Just this?" Leylin smiled callously as swiped his sword repeatedly and pierced through two of the phantom images.

The Green-skinned Barbarian's smile showed a confidence in victory as it swiftly started chanting.

Beside one of the phantom images, the greenish liquid in the grey alms bowl exploded and manifested itself into a gooey monstrous hand.

The innumerable suction pads on the hand started trembling, seeming like it was attached to a tremendously huge body that was attempting to break free from the alms bowl.

Green billows of fog filled the air as if a cage and attempted to trap Leylin within.

But suddenly, the Green-skinned Barbarian's eyes shot open.

Leylin showed no signs of panic or fear amidst the fog, and on the contrary, took out a potion of his own from his belt. A layer of pink smoke slowly dispersed, enveloping the alms bowl.

The pink smoke neuralized the green gas in moments, and soon droplets of liquid started to form that sprinkled onto the ground.

"How… How can it be…" The Green-skinned Barbarian's jaw fell wide open.

"Are you surprised your summon mixture has zero effect? Do you think I can't recognise it?" Leylin looked at the Green-skinned Barbarian, his smile showing his satisfaction.

"With just a potion of clean-jem neutralizing potion, the problem can be solved. You should be embarrassed to use such mediocre potions against me!"

-x-X-x-

Battles between Potions Masters depended most on their accumulated knowledge and recipes.

For instance, had Leylin not recognised the type of potion that the Green-skinned Barbarian was using, it might have been a hindrance to him.

The winner was determined by who managed to see through the other party's setup.

When it came to all this information, how could the Green-skinned Barbarian match up to Leylin, who possessed the A.I. Chip?

"You-" The opposite Green-skinned Barbarian's fingers began to shake, evidently in fear.

"What? Are you planning to use the Star-traced amulet and activate the Icy Frost Potion above your waist, or are you going to use the Corrosive Poison Arrow Potion at your back?"

Leylin measured up this Green-skinned Barbarian, obviously ridiculing it.

"Oh! No, I think you're doing this as a cover for you to activate your Wind Spirit's Fury under your feet!"

All sorts of expressions crossed the opposite Green-skinned Barbarian's face, and it was truly difficult for it to have so many expressions and movements on his creased face. At the end, all this turned into terror.

"Ah! You're the devil! The devil!"

The Green-skinned Potion Master yelled, and actually abandoned his race and companions, fleeing from the battle area first.

It evidently had a very high status here. After seeing it flee, the other Green-skinned Barbarians were startled, and with some of them shouting at the top of their voices, they rapidly left the area.

"Good job!" Robin, who was not far away, revealed a smile. He was the strongest of the three of them, and the opposite grey-robed Magus could only fend for himself.

Kesha, who was on the other side, was not so lucky.

When she had chosen her opponent, she had had no A.I. Chip and depended on her judgement. She had actually chosen the Barbarian Bear Shaman, which was likely at the Crystal Phase.

This Barbarian Bear Shaman not only had unimaginable strength but also a tough body. Even Kesha's Eye of Petrification could only hold it for a second and had no other effect.

Rank 1 or two spells that struck it would char the fur, but there would be no substantial harm. As for rank 3 spells? Not only were such models difficult to get a hold of, to use them in the Forgotten Land required that one pay a huge price.

Not everyone was a Potions Grandmaster like Leylin, who could use potions to simulate the effects of a rank 3 spell.

*Wooh wooh!* At this moment, the skeleton flag on Barbarian Bear Shaman's back suddenly exploded, sounding like a bugle horn.

"Awoo awoo!" The surrounding Barbarian Bears who heard these sounds immediately roared frantically, eyes turning blood-red and their offensive abilities increasing by a large amount. Noah and the other Warlocks were immediately at a disadvantage.

"They're entering a frenzied state! Even regular Barbarian Bears are affected! How about that one?"

Leylin immediately shifted his attention to the Barbarian Bear Shaman.

Along with the sounds of the horn, the Barbarian Bear abruptly roared towards the skies, slapping its chest.

Thick veins that were like old tree roots occupied its hands, chest, and back.

*Ka-cha!* The skull of this Barbarian Bear cracked open, revealing a muscle similar to a brain that was beginning to glow with warmth.

"Awoo!" Under its crazed roar, this Barbarian Bear Shaman's body began to expand. Its body that was about two floors high became taller, turning into a gigantic humanoid bear-shaped monster.

Energy undulations typically produced by Crystal Phase Magi burst out from the body of this giant Barbarian Bear.

"Crystal—Crystal Phase!" Kesha looked pained.

The Barbarian Bear monster obviously did not care about that. With its paw that could cover the heavens, it swiped at her!

Under this terrifying might, the air seemed to solidify and began to attack Kesha.

With a boom, Kesha's figure was sent flying, slamming into numerous buildings.

"Explosive Fireball!"

Countless giant fireballs exploded on the Barbarian Bear's head, but the groove with what seemed to be a brain was not the least bit damaged. All these attacks successfully incited the fury of the Barbarian Bear monster, and attracted its attention elsewhere.

"Kesha, how is it? Are you dead yet?"

"Who asks questions like that?" Bricks exploded, and Kesha's figure appeared.

However, she was not in a very good condition. Her clothes were tattered beyond repair, revealing dense snake scales. Kesha was now in her snake form, and not only did her Kemoyin's Scales cover her entire body, even her pupils had elongated and turned vertical.

Even with the most powerful defensive form of Giant Kemoyin Serpent Warlocks, there was a huge wound on her arm and it was slightly twisted. Even her bones had issues.

"I used a diversion technique and shifted most of the attack to my left hand." Kesha revealed her mangled left arm and smiled wryly as she explained, "I didn't expect that Barbarian Bear to be so fierce! It's very dangerous today!"

To be defeated by a creature that used brute force and its physique, it was a huge blow to her.

Leylin smiled wryly and quickly pulled Kesha aside, dodging a large black foot.

*Boom!* The building from before was smashed, leaving behind a gigantic footprint.

"What we need to consider right now is how to get away from them. Besides, the support troops and Magi who we attracted before are coming this way. The traps we set up can't hold them for too long, so we need a plan!"

Leylin quickly told Kesha, his words reaching Robin who was a distance away.

"Awoo!"

At this moment, the giant Barbarian Bear monster was already destroying everything, whether it was its ally, the Green-skinned Barbarian, fallen Magi, Warlocks of the Ouroboros Clan or even Barbarian Bear warriors, all were attacked without distinction.

"Ah!"

A Black Horrall Snake Warlock was grasped in the palm of the gigantic Barbarian Bear monster, and produced miserable shrieks of fear.

"You monster. Die!" His facial muscles twisted as he yelled, terrifying rays converging in his hands and turned into a large axe, striking down at it.

*Ka-cha!*

The axe, which had the terrifying might of a rank 3 spell made contact with the monster's chest, and actually produced sparks.

*Boom! Boom!* The Barbarian Bear monster took two steps back, shook its head, and continued roaring.

With a swing of its arm, it threw the rank 3 Black Horrall Snake Warlock into its mouth and began to chew.

*Gachi! Gachi!*

Flesh, blood, organs and bones slid out from its mouth.

The might of those jaws, as well as its physique and sharp teeth turned the Barbarian Bear monster's mouth into a grinder, turning the Warlock into minced meat.

"Oh no! Alfredo!"

Noah screamed. It looked like yet another Warlock from his family had died, while Robin's expression turned as gloomy as dark waters. When he saw a few rays about to catch up to them, his eyes revealed a steely determination.

"Quick, get into the pocket dimension. I'll bring up the rear," he opened up his hand, "Illusory Terror!"

Formless thin lines like a large web trapped all the human grey-robed Magi within. There were even all sorts of strange laughter being produced in the air.

After that, he stood in front of the giant Barbarian Bear monster and helped Noah and the others stall for time.

"The seal spell formation is completed." At this moment, a Warlock who had been by the dark river called out.

A scarlet rune launched from his finger and entered the whirlpool of the underground dark river.

*Pila!* A giant blue web immediately appeared on the surface of the river.

"Open!" Leylin's eyes flickered with blue rays, his Meteor Sword streaking across with a strange arc and slashing at the web!

Black light flashed, and the blue web immediately broke apart, revealing the black entrance to the pocket dimension in the whirlpool behind it.

"Quick, quick, quick! Hurry up!" Many Warlocks immediately jumped into the whirlpool, and immediately disappeared with silver spatial rays.

"Senior Robin, let's go!"

Leylin slashed at the area with the Meteor Sword and terrifying Kemoyin toxins appeared once more, before he unhesitatingly jumped into the whirlpool.

"Awoo!" The giant Barbarian Bear monster's eyes glinted with intelligence, and it charged towards Robin in a frenzy.

"What a pity! This is something I only just got my hands on!"

Robin took a look at the monster and tossed a black ball at it.

*Pak!*

Countless vines appeared in mid-air, with green shoots and leaves that formed a large green web that trapped it within.

"Ball of Binding! This is a one-time use magic object passed down from ancient times. Even Crystal Phase Magi will be held back for at least a minute!" Robin sighed, and then jumped into the whirlpool.

Silver-white rays flashed, and he disappeared.

At this moment, a few splendid rays charged to the camp and the lights vanished, revealing the forms of a few people who looked terrible.

"Douglas, stop, you idiot!" A Barbarian Bear with golden fur immediately went forward and roared using a unique method.

This roaring was at a specific frequency that prevented the monster from moving.

"Looks like someone broke into the pocket dimension! I smell the disgusting scent of Warlock blood…"

The Green-skinned Barbarian leader's nose twitched and he concluded confidently.

"The Ouroboros Clan? Even they have to abide by our rules in the Forgotten Land!" Together with these two Magi was a human Magus with a strange brand on his face that seemed like some kind of symbol.

-x-X-x-

"So what now? Do we continue our chase?"

Upon hearing the howl of the Barbarian Bear, the huge monster had already returned to its original state and was currently lying on the floor, depressed.

"Or we could simply destroy this entrance!" the golden-furred Barbarian Bear proposed.

"Are you mad? It would be a waste to destroy such a good pocket dimension. Nobody will agree to it!" The Green-skinned Barbarian shook his head and continued: "Besides, those Magi can completely escape from other small cracks. This is such a silly plan!"

The Barbarian Bear groaned coldly, revealing a big flag on his back.

"Alright! Alright, currently we are allies and we need to discuss as to how we will handle our enemies!" said the human Magus as he was stuck in between the Green-skinned Barbarian and the Barbarian Bear.

"What else can we do? If we have no intentions of letting our enemies mindlessly plunder from our pocket dimension, then we must send people in! But you've seen their strength, we'd be sending them to their deaths!" The Green-skinned Barbarian's eyes flashed with a tinge of helplessness.

"Then we'll have to deploy Hydro and Crystal Phase Magi! In the worst case scenario, we just abandon our bases. First, we must gather our men here!" the human chief replied.

"Since you said so…" The Green-skinned Barbarian and Barbarian Bear chiefs looked at each other. "Then it's settled! We will immediately send out the signal!"

...

"Is this the pocket dimension that was established by Quicksand in ancient times?" Leylin said whilst standing on a huge plain that, every now and then, emitted wisps of fog.

Leylin looked at the statistics gathered by the A.I Chip and nodded his head. "From this mapping of energy particles, the concentration here is almost the same as that of the outside world. There isn't any impact to spells anymore!"

During the battle at the underground river, Leylin and the other Magi could not use their entire strength because of the lack of energy particles. But it was different here.

Of course, there were always two sides to a coin. With this concentration, even the Crystal Phase Magi of the other side would have their strengths restored as well, and become free of restraints.

Robin's silhouette slowly emerged as silver rays of light flashed. He looked at his surroundings and his expression lit up, "Wonderful! These are the Purple Plains, which are not very far from the Magi buildings in the center!"

"Where do you intend to go? If we have different targets to plunder, we need to separate here!" He asked Leylin and Kesha for their opinions.

"Of course! I want to go to the core of the Magi buildings!" Leylin said with a know-it-all look on his face. The Lamia Hair was likely to be kept in the core of the pocket dimension, why would he go to other places?

"Me too!" Kesha followed. Each pocket dimension had its own set of rules, and the resources were most plentiful at its core. Furthermore, the ruins of Magi are there, so there definitely would be storerooms and laboratories inside, making it the most sought after place.

"That's good then! We shall go to the ruins of the central continent together, then split and start our mission when we arrive!" Robin nodded his head: "In any case, the ruins there are expansive and we can't say for sure we won't run into…"

There could still be remaining Magi and other creatures from the previous three forces that dwelled in the pocket dimension, and not to mention the possibility of armies chasing after them. They ought to move as a group to achieve better security to prevent any mishaps.

To make full use of time, Robin immediately announced the start of the mission.

Although they had lost two men in their lineup, the remaining ten shot out blazing rays of light from their pupils, which transformed into ten black streaks that pierced through the horizon.

*Bang!* A Green-skinned Barbarian Magus was thrown to the ground with no light in his eyes. His forehead had a massive and terrifying hole in it, and one could faintly see a portion of his brain. But it was already thoroughly destroyed and looked like a lump of starch paste.

This Green-skinned Barbarian Magus originally had rank 2 Strength. But because his brain was damaged and he did not deploy a clone seed beforehand, he was actually doomed to die.

As his body twitched, the flames of his life were slowly extinguished.

Kesha, who was beside him, took out a gold-trimmed handkerchief and cleaned her hands of the brain remnants.

"I've already extracted fragments of his memory. He is a sage of the Green-skinned Barbarians. This time, he came to gather potion materials and resources. According to his memory, we did not deviate far from our original path and we are almost at the core of the pocket dimension—the Quicksand ruins!" she told a bunch of Magi near her.

Their faces flashed with delight upon those words.

They had taken about two days to get to their current location. All this time, they had not only encountered scattered members of the three forces, there were also Hydro Phase Magi on their tails with orders to kill.

That troop, under the lead of a Crystal Phase Magus, had unhesitantly chased after their group.

Luckily, being Warlocks whose strength exceeded their levels, Leylin's group had been able to fight them and flee whenever they met, but this had still caused a deviation from their original plans.

"Go there as quickly as possible, find what we need and immediately get out! Our traps will not be able to hold them off for long!"

Robin's expression sank. The small squads at the back could only grit their teeth and carry on with the mission with no time to rest, not to mention any time to find resources.

Even if a trap was put in place again, with the add-on of Leylin's spectacular skills, and the difficulty in successfully confining multiple Rank 3 Magi, the effects would not last very long.

Even their whereabouts would be known to their enemies.

After entering the pocket dimension, their ultimate goal was to reach the Quicksand ruins in the central continent. Leylin and company had never tried to conceal this fact -- or rather, they couldn't.

The fiery, blazing sun shone in the sky scorching everything.

Although this was merely a projection of the sun of another realm, the terrible heatwaves were still rising constantly, clambering up the surrounding temperature.

Leylin had draped himself with a white cloak and was standing in a large desert. There was only yellow sand as far as the eye could see. Not even a cactus could be seen, not to mention other plants and animals. It was a scene of death.

"Although this is a desert, the atmosphere and environment here are out of the norm!"

Leylin grabbed a handful of sand and its boiling heat spread to the center of his palm, "This kind of temperature is easily beyond a 100 degrees. Leave alone animals or plants, even a group of acolytes or rank 1 Magi cannot stand this terrible place for too long…"

He opened his palm, letting the boiling sand slip through his fingers. "Furthermore, this terrain is giving off a peculiar vibe. It seems to be from an ancient life form!"

"Did you notice it too?" Robin walked up to Leylin as he asked.

"Mm! Apparently, there are traces of some kind of ancient life form that lived here once, and they have a characteristic of blazing heat." He said with a firm nod of his head.

Large-scale environmental changes like these, made subconsciously by the ancient life forms, were scaringly similar to those by Breaking Dawn Magi.

"I've heard a rumor. Among the ancient Quicksand Organization, there was once the son of a famous Bloodline Warlock who safely returned to his ancestors and really became the ancient Sun's Child.

Robin looked at the vast desert and could not bear to sigh with sorrow: "We can't say for sure but if that Sun's Child was here before and cast his power…"

"The Ancient Sun's Child!" Leylin's faced changed slightly as he scanned through the database of the A.I Chip.

This was not just a simple bloodline creature. Its flames could burn in a vacuum, twisting the concepts of time. Even in some small worlds, the sun seen is not the actual fixed burning star, but in fact a grown Sun's Child!

In the event of a Sun Child leaving the small world, it would bring great disaster to that place.

"Relax, even if the Sun's Child surpassed Breaking Dawn Magi and entered the unpredictable rank 7, he would have probably died long ago during the ancient war."

Robin seemed to have confidence and Leylin nodded his head in agreement.

Although ancient Magi were incomparably strong, their enemies, too, knew the rules of survival. And could even wipe out certain Magi via these rules.

Once somebody falls during the war, there was no possibility for them to survive. Even if they cloned their bodies as a backup, it was no use because it would decay the second the main body dies.

Even if the Sun's Child surpassed the strength of the Morning Star Magus, it would be dreadful if he was made to enlist and die during battle.

'Everything takes its own course. Even one as strong as the sun cannot escape the fate of death!' Leylin sighed.

'So it is uncertain if rank 9 Magi will be able to reach immortality?' This was his highest pursuit and his greatest ambition, a path to eternal life!

Even if he attained the position of a rank 9 Magus in the highest realm, if he realized that he was unable to be immortal, he would still carry on with his journey, without the slightest hesitation, looking for all hope and opportunities!

Leylin's pupils burned with desire, but he quickly concealed it.

"We've arrived!" Shouted Robin who was at the front.

"Hm? Let's take a look!" Robin and Leylin looked at each other and walked to the front.

After kicking a small sand dune over, they spotted a huge, black, ancient castle, peacefully standing on its own amidst the yellow desert. The rising heat waves caused the castle to look like an oasis, a scene from a dream. But they could only see a small portion of it, and were able to roughly gauge the size of the ancient castle.

"We're here! There are traces of Magi here—Quicksand Castle!" Robin laughed out loud.

And surrounding the ancient castle, there were a few people working on temporary construction; a few Barbarian Bears, Green-skinned Barbarians and human Magi forming a harmonious group. At certain times, there were Magi setting off alone, changing into flowy rays of light and entering the ancient castle.

-x-X-x-

A small white bird landed, and Kesha opened her shut eyes. "From the energy fluctuations at that end, they have, at most, a Hydro Phase Magus overseeing them. What do we do?"

"Even though they have received some information related to us, it isn't too risky to just barge in. We still have to obtain some sort of guide or map of the area to explore it, though...…"

Robin let out a deep sigh, "My subordinates only acquired a part of the information about the outermost region. They have no clue as to the internal structure of Quicksand Castle…"

"Even if it's a trap, the opponent's teams have been trapped in the sculptured spell formation. Even if there was a trap set up, they would not have much manpower!" Leylin stoked his chin as he stated this assumption.

"In that case, we have nothing to be afraid of!" Robin's laughed sardonically.

Having been chased after by their opponents for such a long time, almost to the extent of being chased out of the pocket dimension, he held a lot of pent up anger, a sentiment more or less shared by every other Warlock present.

*Pu!*

A scaly hand suddenly extended outwards from emptiness and grabbed the chest of a Barbarian Bear Warrior, gouging out a still-throbbing bright-red heart.

Drops of fresh blood that had yet to lose their warmth dripped down unceasingly, causing the surrounding Magi to be scared stiff.

"Ah! A beautiful, short, death!" A Black Horrall Snake Warlock robed in black squeezed out of a crack in the shadows, his face revealing a mesmerised expression.

Magi could, more or less, be considered mentally ill, and Warlocks were no exception.

Previously, they had been restricted from acting by the royal bloodlines, but now there was no such thing. Once the orders for an attack were given, the alliance went into complete chaos as six Black Horrall Snake Warlocks, together with Noah, massacred every Magus in sight, regardless of rank. Even acolytes were not spared.

That tragedy had caused some Magi to flee.

*Boom!* The central building exploded. Three magi with gloomy expressions floated in mid-air, their bodies emanating the terrifying energy of Hydro Phase Magi.

"Launch the spells!" the one at the center shouted. A ring of fluorescent light flickered and large runes formed a steel cage, firmly securing the entire campsite within.

"I knew you had some tricks up your sleeves. But where are your Hydro Phase and Crystal Phase Magi? Have they all died?"

Just when the three Hydro Phase Magi were about to go forth to stop them, a spark exploded out of the darkness. Robin, along with Leylin and Kesha, stepped out to block them with a sneer.

There were no Morning Star Magi in the Forgotten Land. Even the major powers of the region like the Barbarian Bears had few Crystal Phase Magi.

To deploy a small team to hunt after Leylin's team was the most they could do without their tribe leaders. Even for that, they had to give up on many strategic locations.

Were this team to be trapped, this alliance in the pocket dimension would have their overall strength greatly reduced.

After all, this group of Magi was only exploring the place. Nobody had expected them to invade.

"A mere one at the Hydro Phase and two at the Vapour Phase. I, Dominic, will ensure that none of you leave this place today!" The human Magus, who wore black robes with a cross-shaped floral pattern on his face, charged forward as Hydro Phase spiritual force surged forth like a tsunami.

"Oh really? But in the eyes of us royal Warlocks, you are like a lamb to be slaughtered!" Robin's eyes showed a tinge of arrogance and a horrifyingly intimidating strength erupted fiercely from his body.

The same happened with Leylin and Kesha.

"Rank 3 innate spell—Intimidating Gaze!"

This was the formidable spell that high-level rank 3 Warlocks could master. Moreover, even the strength of this spell in the hands of rank 3 Black Horrall Snake Warlocks could not compare to when Leylin and party used it, even if they had trained in the same spell.

This deterrence strength was entirely attributed to the bloodline. The more concentrated the bloodline, the stronger its ancient roots, the more powerful the effect of intimidation would be.

"Rank 3 spell formation! The Domain of Unity!

The bodies of the three began to glow, the light merging to form a strange triangular diagram.

Under the effects of the spell, the dreadful force fields the three of them emitted actually started to indistinctly complement each other and increase in intensity, forming a force similar to that of the domain of a true Morning Star Magus!

Waves of hissing howls arose, those of ancient predatory Giant Kemoyin Serpents. Space vibrated endlessly and a more than thousand metre tall phantom of a giant serpent appeared. The serpent opened its amber eyes and stared straight at the 3 Magi ahead of it, making them break out in cold sweat.

'A real domain should possess three basic attributes: weaken the enemy, strengthen the self, and bend fundamental laws!' Leylin had a deep understanding regarding his own domain, all thanks to the large amounts of information hidden in the library of the Ouroboros Clan.

'The terror of an individual Giant Kemoyin Serpent can at most weaken its enemies. When we cooperate, the terrifying force fields we generate complement and amplify each other!"'

In an instant, he saw the actions of the opposing Magi slow down. The acolytes fainted while rank 1 Magi could barely move. Rank 2 and 3 Magi could move and even cast spells, but their strength had been greatly reduced.

On the contrary, the Black Horrall Snake Warlocks had an abrupt increase in their aura, to the extent that they could compare to the Vapour Phase now. Under Noah's lead, the low-ranked Magi unscrupulously massacred the camp.

'After combination, our powers now both weaken the enemy and strengthen our allies. What a pity that we cannot bend laws, else it would have been a terrifying true domain!' Leylin could feel the terrifying force field adding to his powers.

An indescribable aura entered his body, exciting his bloodline to a boil and pushing his power to that of the Hydro Phase.

Kesha's situation was similar to his, but what shocked everyone the most was Robin's transformation. As the core of this combination, he had received the greatest amplification of power. His aura increased nonstop and began to terrify even Leylin. Only Lucian had managed to inspire such emotion in him previously.

Supplemented by the innate gift of three Giant Kemoyin Serpent Warlocks, Robin had already neared the threshold of the Crystal Phase. With the addition of his bloodline's strength, he had completely stepped into the Crystal Phase in power!

"This terrifying force field! You are all Giant Kemoyin Serpent Warlocks!" The human Magus, Dominic, squinted his eyes, his body trembling.

The reports had only mentioned that a group of rank 3 Warlocks had invaded the pocket dimension. Because Leylin and the other three had only used their innate poison spells when they entered and not this terrifying force field, the Magi had underestimated them.

Even if they were rank 3 Warlocks, the Black Horrall Snake bloodline and the Giant Kemoyin Serpent bloodline were in completely different leagues. Their strengths were poles apart.

Giant Kemoyin Serpent Warlocks were very rare, and typically never strayed out of the Ouroboros Clan headquarters where they were well-protected. The human Magus had not expected the presence of so many Giant Kemoyin Serpent Warlocks in this infiltrating party.

He could feel a portion of the spiritual force in his sea of consciousness being locked. His inability to use it caused his expression to change to one of bitterness.

A little over ten minutes later, the massacre on the ground had come to an end. Limbs and flesh were strewn about everywhere. Noah and the nine remaining Black Horrall Snake Warlocks had not suffered any injuries, but their clothes had been dyed dark red.

The battle in the sky, too, had reached its climax.

"Ophidian Gnaw!"

Robin had grown even more terrifying, having activated his Kemoyin scales defence. The intricate black scales that covered him were smooth yet elegant, and there were even faint patterns on the surface, forming a complete rune the colour of blood.

He howled, and numerous streams of black air congealed into a large black phantom snake that swallowed a huge Barbarian Bear.

A cringeworthy sound of gnawing was emitted. Several seconds later, there was no longer a hint there of the existence of a Barbarian Bear Shaman.

"Shadow cage!" Leylin, Meteor Sword in hand, combed the area. From time to time, he would cast a few spells which caused the Green-skinned Barbarian Magus opposite him to retreat slowly.

*Boom!* At that time, a hidden trap burst out from behind the Green-skinned Barbarian Magus, morphing into a cage of shadows that trapped the Barbarian within.

"Die!" Leylin rushed forward, his quick steps containing the elegance of a dancer. His sword slashed across the neck of the Green-skinned Barbarian. Green blood spurted out as a head flew across the sky.

"AAAAH!" The human Magus let out a startling cry and distanced himself from Kesha, morphing into a ray of light that streaked into the distance.

The cage from before had immediately made an opening for him as he neared.

"You need my permission to leave!" Just as the Magus was going to rush out of the cage, a black palm blocked his path. Robin made his way there with a smile.

Leylin and Kesha tailed behind him and blocked his retreat. Upon seeing that scenario, the Magus smiled wryly and put up both his hands in an act of surrender.

"What now?" The surrendered Magus immediately fell to the ground and fainted. Robin looked anxiously at Kesha.

"Even though the opponent was very cooperative, but it is extremely troublesome to scour through a rank 3 Magus' memories!" Kesha opened both her eyes, her face revealing an exhausted expression.

-x-X-x-

"I have already check the maps and the symbols thoroughly. The copies he gave were real. It is exactly the same as in his memory…."

"That's good!" Leylin glanced at Dominic who was lying dead on the ground whose sea of consciousness was still sealed.

"What do we do with him?"

"Throw the body out. He only co-operated because of the promise to spare his life." Robin spoke indifferently, as if talking about garbage.

Every word and action of a rank 3 Magus carried with it a terrifying energy. Hence, the pacts they made, even if mere verbal agreements, would be like binding.

Of course, to Robin and Leylin, Dominic was no threat, therefore whether he was killed or spared made little difference to the bigger picture.

"Alright then!" Kesha summoned a yellow sand puppet which lifted Dominic from the ground and ran off to a distance.

"Hmm! Now, let's take a look at the arrangements in the Quicksand Castle!"

After occupying the original camp, Leylin and company chose one of the rooms and assembled together. They spread out a map on a big round table.

This was what the coward Dominic had handed over. It had been retrieved from memory and tested for authenticity, so it was credible.

The structure of the huge castle was laid bare on this yellow parchment, surrounded by plain white barring a few outer areas that were marked with clearer symbols.

Amongst those were many areas marked as rank 3 danger zones.

This clearly showed that only rank 3 Magi with their capabilities could explore this place. Average rank 1 or rank 2 Magi would only be courting their own deaths if they attempted to advance there.

Leylin and the other Magi looked on with intense attention, memorising the map completely.

"Based on the accumulated information from ancient times, not only are there plenty of illusions and traps here, the routes and defenses constantly change with the passage of time, rendering any work of mapping the traps useless. Currently, there are three routes that are safe for travel!"

Robin pointed on the map and explained, "They are the main door, the first window sill, and the rooftop which contained the flaw of the defensive spell formation, which one will you choose?"

After reaching this point, the team was basically going to split.

Leylin, just like the rest of them, had his own agenda in mind and hoped not to travel with the rest. This way, he would be able to protect his secrets.

"I intend to start from the rooftop which had the weakest entry point!" Kesha took the lead and decided,"The three Warlocks from my clan shall follow me!"

"I will take the main door then! Although the rooftop might contained good natural resources, the main door is much safer!" Robin chuckled.

Noah and the rest of the three Warlocks said nothing. It seemed like they followed Robin willingly.

"So I'll…" Leylin parted his lips and was about to reply.

"Leylin, why don't you join me?" Kesha invited, "I know you are looking for Lamia Hair. If we find it, you'll get priority!"

Lamia Hair was very precious, so for Kesha to make such a comment showed the great extent of her goodwill for him.

"Join you?" Leylin lowered his head in thoughts. Of course there were benefits, especially in the face of enemy troops and when facing multiple traps. In turn, though, it would create many troubles for him.

He still had some strategies up his sleeves that he had not divulged as yet because the time was not right.

"Sorry," He smiled apologetically

"It's nothing," Kesha smiled, as if she didn't care too.

"Alright! Let's move out after we have decided on our routes. I do not wish to be chased out again!" Robin exclaimed and immediately left the room with Noah and the other three.

In this excursion, both Leylin and Kesha had not suffered much loss. However, Robin had lost two of his rank 3 subordinates, something which left him in regret. He felt a sense of urgency to search for more resources to make up for his losses.

Kesha and Leylin nodded their heads in agreement and quickly left the place.

The entire camp was left in a deathly silence. Remaining behind was the blood that had seeped into the ground and the wreckage, remnants of the violence that had taken place.

*Shoo!*

A few hours after Leylin and company had entered the depths of the ancient castle, a few rays of dazzling brilliance shone over from the horizon.

They faded out to reveal the figures of the Magi of the various tribes. In the arms of one of the women was the unconscious Dominic.

"This whole camp is completely abandoned, Coulomb and Akamu are most likely dead…" Seeing the ruins on the camp, many of the high ranking Magi had to constrain their rage.

"Coulomb is fine, he prepared a clone seed long ago. The regeneration itself will take place in our clan!" An old Green-skinned Barbarian announced, "If not for the fact that this cloning process causes huge exhaustion of his spiritual force, it would have been difficult to defeat him!"

"Not true!" Another Barbarian Bear Shaman who had a dull expression remarked.

Within this camp, out of the three Hydro Phase Magi, one was in a coma and the other still had a clone seed. Only the Hydro Phase Barbarian Bear Shaman was truly dead.

The Barbarian Bear clan specialised in physical strength. As for the spells and such, they drew support and strength from the totem, so naturally they did not have many methods of keeping their lives safe. They were also rather rigid in thoughts, unwilling to bend over and surrender like the humans.

"I can feel the power of the Crystal Phase. Based on Akamu's ability, only with such strength could they have wiped them out in such short order!" The Barbarian Bear Shaman roared loudly.

"What do we do now?" The female Magus' eyes met the Green-skinned Barbarian.

"Give chase! I can smell them, they have intentionally split up!" The Barbarian Bear Shaman's eyes grew bloodshot, looking horrifying. "Those who dare to murder those of my clan will pay dearly! I will act personally, and place their heads at our altar to suffer eternal damnation!"

It looked exceptionally furious indeed.

The female Magus shuddered in cold sweat. She had heard about such curses. It was said that the enemy's head would be chopped off and placed on the altar and the power of the totem would inflict eternal torture.

Some rumours stated that the soul of the Magus would also be imprisoned inside the skull to suffer the eternal cruelty!

This was the Barbarian Bears' most wicked punishment, and it looked like this time it was going to be put to use.

'For these different tribes to survive in this Forgotten Land, they have to stay united, hence their troop cohesiveness is very high!' The female Magus sighed. Comparatively, for the human alliance, which was made up mainly by the disloyal and traitorous, their alliance was very strong and solid but sadly there was no unity. Thus, their combined strength was less than those of the Barbarian Bears and Green-skinned Barbarians.

"Let's split up three ways and move forward!" The Green-skinned Barbarian nodded his head in agreement.

These three powerful individuals had met and formed an alliance for the pocket dimension. Although there was some semblance of unity amongst them, the bond was rather weak. Not too long ago, even they had been at loggerheads for sole ownership of the plane.

Thus, to act independently was a wise choice.

"The Magus whose is pestered by the spirit of Akamu chose the main door. I can feel it! I'm going after him." The Barbarian Bear Shaman hastened his steps and immediately moved forward.

"I will choose the rooftop!" The old Green-skinned Barbarian added. With a hunched back that looked like it might break anytime, he held out crutches made of solid gold and precious gems and flew upwards.

"You…"

The female Magus shook her head. She stomped her feet and headed towards the windowsill.

At this moment, Leylin was unaware that the enemy troops had caught up with them and were just outside the vicinity. He was looking around the room curiously.

It looked like a bedroom. The floor area was very small with only a bed, a table, a chair and a bookshelf, with nothing else present. The wooden planks inside the house had turned a brownish yellow. Cobwebs and piles of dust covered the corners.

On the whole, it seemed like a regular abandoned bedroom.

Leylin walked to the bookshelf and started reading the titles on the spines of the books."57 Ways To Brew Apple Wine", "Ways To Capture Molten Bugs","The World - A General Discussion"...

There were many odd genres of books stacked neatly together, something that amazed Leylin. He held himself back and refused to touch any of them.

Such ancient Magus castles had already absorbed unquantifiable radiation from the previous residents over the years. There might have been a terrifyingly powerful Magus as well, or the Sun's Child. The castle had probably undergone terrifying changes.

Leave alone the structure and essence, at this point it might even have manifested some bizarre phenomena. Some of those phenomena could not be explained even by the original owner, hence they could prove to be even more deadly.

Ancient Magi had been known to make good use of these as defense networks and build a large numbers of traps. Exploring Magi had previously had touched these items in the house and were drawn into a deep mysterious space, completely lost to the world.

Even well known Magi who had great status, too, met the same fate of death.

Many Magi were fearful of the terrifying outcome, therefore they would not act blindly without thinking.

"According to Dominic's report, I have to wait for another three minutes before the door can be opened!"

Leylin stood outside the bedroom door. His eyes stared coldly at the brass handle and his expressionless face looked serious.

On the wall, a clock was slowing ticking away.

*Tick..Tock...Tick…Tock!* The needles were moving very slowly. It seemed like the world had moved for five seconds and the clock only one.

With so many odd and unexplainable environmental influences, many Magi made the mistake of telling the wrong time. If it weren't for Leylin's A.I. Chip, he might have fallen into the same trap.

"It is time!"

Leylin watched attentively at the A.I. Chip's stopwatch. The moment the needle reached zero, he grabbed the handle immediately and opened the door.

*Boom!*

Distant echoes could be heard in the corridor. Leylin looked to the ground and saw that the bright red carpet lined on the floor was spotless without traces of dust. Beautiful chandeliers hung from the ceiling, emitting a yellow radiance.

Leylin turned his head around, the original room was nowhere to be seen, not even a single trace of it remaining. What was left was just a blank empty wall.

"This must be the illusionary corridor, and this also means that I have entered into the second level of the castle! "

-x-X-x-

Leylin looked into the information the A.I. Chip had previously recorded.

The three powers had been hanging around for a long time, and they had definitely obtained a few useful items.

Based on Dominic's information, Quicksand Castle was far larger than it looked on the outside. It was practically a gigantic maze.

The numerous rooms outside were the first layer of defense.

If they did not leave on time, they would travel through countless rooms and later be trapped inside till their death.

The mark of the second layer would first be this illusory corridor.

With the dim yellow lighting, Leylin looked through the decorations in the corridor.

The two walls were mostly white, with some strange patterns of flowers and plants, but there were no portraits of humans. The red carpet on the ground extended until the end of the corridor, with not a speck of dust in sight.

"This drawing technique?" Leylin touched his chin. "It has the style of the ancient era. Looks like it is one of Quicksand's experimentation areas."

The strength of the current Magi could not compare to that of ancient times. Leylin even suspected that Magi at the Morning Star Realm or higher had even participated in the construction of this place.

As a mere rank 3 Warlock, , a slight misstep could take away his life!

Leylin glanced at the oil paintings in the corridor vigilantly, he started advancing in a strange pace.

The flower patterns on the two sides began to move in tune to his step. They began to grow, germinate, blossom and then wilt, creating a cycle.

"Rumours have it that the illusory corridor can only be entered with a unique walking frequency. It possesses a strange force that can send a person to any place he would like to go to."

Leylin remembered this passage, as well as the account at the end, "If there are errors in one's footwork, the illusory corridor will turn into a life-threatening trap, trapping both their body and soul."

This specific footstep was discovered through the huge sacrifice from the Magi on the outside, which now made things convenient for Leylin's group.

"What exactly do I want?"

Leylin strolled along the corridor and constantly asked himself. A unique feature of the corridor was that if one did not have a clear desire, there would be no end.

After a specific period of time, the same mechanism would activate.

"Immortality, strength and all that would be too vague and exceed the abilities of the illusory corridor. I can only mention a place it can communicate with."

Leylin muttered to himself, "It's not safe to directly say the location of the Lamia Hair. If such a material doesn't exist, the illusory corridor will instantly regard me as an intruder!"

This was a test for all who entered. The true owner definitely knew what was at the end of the corridor.

The teleportation of the corridor would only work within the castle. The moment Leylin mentioned an area that did not match what was inside, not only would there be no teleportation, but defensive spell formations would be activated instead.

However, he was unwilling to give up on the Lamia Hair.

'I would like… to go to a place that will help my bloodline mature!' A moment later, Leylin made up his mind and constantly repeated this line in his thoughts.

In that instant, the corridor seemed to shrink and the flowery patterns on the walls sped up. In a few seconds, they completed a cycle of growth. A bit of light appeared at the end of the corridor, constantly expanding.

"Let's go!" Leylin gritted his teeth and calmly headed ahead.

*Swoosh!* The feeling of weightlessness during the teleportation left him feeling dizzy.

Shaking his head vigorously, he took stock of his surroundings.

"Where is this…?"

He was in a large laboratory. He could see plants outside through the glass, as well as many glass vessels and experimental apparatus that were all neatly arranged inside.

"A lab, huh. My luck is pretty good. There's definitely going to be something here to help mature my bloodline faster!"

Leylin let out a long breath, and immediately recalled the rumours regarding Quicksand. Given that their ranks consisted of Warlocks of various bloodlines, they had a vested interest in the field. It would not be difficult to find something that could help his bloodline mature.

Leylin arrived at a metal counter, and pulled out the first drawer. It was messy, mostly made of thick parchments recording data from experiments. It was all in the Byron language.

Leylin opened the other drawers, and the contents were about the same. There was mostly data from experiments, the counter practically filled by these documents.

"There is so much data, but it's a pity there's no information on the receptors and core data. There's no way to tell the procedure of the experiment at all…"

Leylin found this regretful but quickly saved all the information to the database.

Even if it was mostly unrelated data, it was still very valuable. Who knows, some of these parchments could even hold the data essential to repeating the experiment!

In addition, with all its recent advances and improvement in its abilities, it took little time to record everything.

Everything was organized neatly. It seemed like the Warlocks then had left in an orderly fashion, not leaving much behind.

After recording the information, Leylin turned his attention to the ecological garden outside the giant glass wall.

Large leaves that were like palm-leaf fans covered the sky. Barely any sunlight shone down on the thick roots of the plants.

It looked like a primordial forest.

However, Leylin who had experience from Twilight Zone immediately realised the difference in this sunlight. This was not sunlight from the natural world, but an artificial recreation of heat and light. Though there was a similar effect, it lacked the harmony of nature.

"This place has probably been abandoned for thousands of years. To be able to let this ecological garden achieve a balance like this, it truly is a perfect system achieved with astonishing skill," Leylin sighed and touched the glass.

[Custom-made reinforced glass. Degree of hardness: 3!] The A.I. Chip concluded.

A level 3 hardness meant that regular rank 3 Warlocks would be unable to break this glass. Leylin's eyes brightened at this information.

"Looks like this place was used to hold many powerful creatures." A giant fireball appeared in Leylin's hands, the terrifying heat burning even the air around it into nothingness and searing through the void.

"Explosive Fireball!"

Enormous flames smashed against the glass wall, the dazzle of the heat and light incomparably piercing. Even Leylin himself had to close his eyes temporarily.

When he opened his eyes again, there was an indent in a part of the glass, but not much more. It still stood strong.

'As expected of a material with a hardness of level 3!' Leylin sighed, as he could immediately tell how much power this reinforced glass could withstand.

Based on the power of his attack, it needed to be used at least ten times before he could completely shatter this glass wall.

'What for?' he thought as he stroked his chin. While gathering information, he had also discovered an activating spell which should have been the key to entering the garden. The attack from before was purely to test how strong this laboratory was.

'Looks like there were at most rank 3 creatures here, so it's not too dangerous!' Leylin was now assured. If not, the defence would not be so uncomplicated. Even if there were still spell formations that had yet to be activated, the creatures would still be around rank 3.

He quickly arrived at an instrument that was like a disk. After checking it briefly, he found a groove and placed crystallised magic crystals inside, replacing the previous powder.

After that, Leylin placed both hands atop the disk, rays travelling from his palms and connecting with the disk. "Activate!"

*Ka-cha! Ka-cha!* The entire glass wall began to shake, great amounts of dust and silt sliding off.

*Rumble!* As it had not been activated for a long time, the mechanism seemed to be aged and produced a loud sound as a glass door opened.

A crack appeared within the glass, expanding in two directions, bringing with it an unusually refreshing breeze.

In that instant, Leylin felt every cell in his body dancing in joy, and his Giant Kemoyin Serpent bloodline beginning to stir.

"I didn't notice this before, but it seems like every plant in this ecological garden is an ancient species. Also, they're quite a few times larger than the species we have now, containing traits of the ancient era…"

Leylin walked out of the laboratory and looked backwards. The laboratory from before was like a giant white egg, set atop a thick stone base. Everything around it looked like a primordial forest.

'With such obvious traits of the ancient era, and given how lively my bloodline has become, this place is a perfect copy of that period,' he determined.

Though such an environment may have been the norm at the time. This is very valuable information…' Leylin revealed an expression of excitement, and immediately commanded, 'A.I. Chip, record the parameters of the environment!'

[Mission established, beginning scanning. Recording parameters of the atmosphere…]

The A.I. Chip loyally intoned, following through on Leylin's command meticulously.

After giving the order, Leylin walked along a giant plant root, Meteor Sword in hand.

At the end of the root was a berry vine, and atop a leaf the size of a millstone, he found bite marks.

'An animal eating,' Leylin looked at the mark on the leaf, 'It should be omnivorous, these marks are of teeth used to tear flesh!' The plan was repairing itself rapidly, erasing all traces of the bites.

'They grow so quickly, which explains how this cycle was constructed here…' Leylin touched his chin and came to the ground. At the root of the plant was a stinking thick, green goop.

-x-X-x-

Leylin guessed that this animal was the bottom of the ecosystem's food chain. That was the only way for this cycle to have been sustained through the ages.

After all, this was just an ecological garden, not a pocket dimension full of resources. As big as it was, it could not support the entire ecosystem on its own. The organisms here had apparently established their own ecosystem in the absence of the researchers.

*Groan!* A deep howl sounded out and Leylin instantly hid himself, watching the new creature draw near.

This creature looked somewhat similar to the Snake-Necked Dragons, but what gave him the chills was its enormous black shell, barbed with spikes. It made the thing look indestructible.

Its head stood out in a stark contrast; as opposed to its humongous body, it was tiny with two small bumps at the back of it. It also had a long nose which produce the howling previously.

Booms rang out with every step, creating a weak resonant vibration with the ground. This massive creature had to weigh more than three tonnes.

It came to a stop in front of Leylin's hiding spot, threatening yet tiny eyes scanning around as it stretched its neck every now and then to nibble on the leaves of the giant plant.

Its bite marks were the same as on the leaves Leylin had seen previously.

'A.I. Chip! Search the database for the image of this creature!' Leylin ordered stealthily.

[Beep! Mission received, starting to scan image, checking database…]

Leylin's order was carried out faithfully by the A.I. Chip and the answer seemed closer than ever.

[No matches found in database, starting search for similar creatures…]

[After comparison to similar creatures in the database, this creature is suspected to be a Snake-Necked Turtle. The two are 87.9% similar!]

A detailed information on Snake-Necked Turtles was then provided by the A.I. Chip as a follow-up.

[Snake-Necked Turtle: Creature of the ancient era. Extinct as of the present. Omnivorous and even-tempered, its shell possesses an astonishing defensive ability making it the core ingredient of many defensive weapons. Can reach a strength similar to that of a rank 2 Magus upon maturation.]

Leylin studied the image—an illustration in an antique book the A.I. Chip once recorded—of the Snake-Necked Turtle in concentration

"Right! The only differences between them are the colour of their shells, the number of spikes on the shell, and their heads. It must be a mutation of some sort…"

Leylin couldn't say he was surprised. An environment like this would be hard for ancient era creatures to survive in if they didn't actively evolve. A little mutation was nothing. This may even have been instigated by members of Quicksand.

Either way, it'd be truly abnormal if these creatures were to retain all of their ancient characteristics.

"If that's the case, Snake-Necked Turtle you shall be!" Leylin decided. It wasn't like normal Snake-Necked Turtles were alive anymore to contest it.

Leylin still stayed, undetected by the Snake-Necked Turtle as it finished its meal and announced its departure with lengthy howls.

Failing to resist the temptation, Leylin tailed the Snake-Necked Turtle.

"Shadow Stealth!" Leylin's manipulation rendered this spell, which was supposed to be rank 1, stronger than many rank 2 spells. This was especially true when used with Vapour Phase spiritual force.

Leylin climbed onto the back of the Snake-Necked Turtle as he fell into the shadows.

The solid shell gave Leylin a sense of stability and security, and he observed his surroundings. The area was covered in a thick canopy and massive trees with hanging vines resembling the Chinese Fringetree. Droplets of water exuded an enchanting radiance as they rolled over the leaves and down the vines.

The atmosphere was further amplified by the blooming of bright-coloured flowers, larger than humans, and the fragrance they gave off. They were truly roses with thorns.

Leylin sniffed, "Hallucinogenic pollen, paired with this neuro-inducting energy. A level 3 acolyte, or even an official Magus would be tricked..."

To Leylin, this place felt like a virgin tropical rainforest from his previous life where different species prospered. It painted an ambience of primitivity.

Instead of spotting Leylin, the Snake-Necked Turtle became his form of transportation, advancing continuously.

Its steady steps caused no discomfort to Leylin as he rested on its back. Approximately half an hour later, the Snake-Necked Turtle brought Leylin to a lake.

Beside the lake was a piece of vacant land. The water came from a river, white as jade, that filled the lake with fresh water bit by bit.

*Moou!* A crowd of Snake-Necked Turtles started gathering around. Many of them swam around without care in the lake, diving in every now and then before raising their heads above the water suddenly, resulting in huge splashes everywhere. Some also shot columns of water from their nostrils that resembled fountains.

The Snake-Necked Turtle that Leylin rode was similarly excited and went straight for the lake.

'There should be about 75 of them here!' Leylin's eyes lit up.

Snake-Necked Turtles weren't well-known after the ancient era; not only were they lacking in strength, their bloodlines were weak too. They were of no use to Leylin.

However, there was something that stood out about them: they bred like rabbits!

The breeding period of a regular Snake-Necked Turtle was very long. They laid almost a hundred eggs every other month, and the survival rate of their clutches were high as well. Barring predators, at least half the eggs would hatch successfully. As long as there was sufficient food, they would mature in the next few years and continue the cycle.

'This is how nature balances itself. The strong cannot multiply as fast, and even when they do it's hard to provide for them. On the other hand, the weak have an insane rate of reproduction and activity...' Leylin remembered the mice of his previous life. There was only one word to describe their adaptability and rate of reproduction: perverse. They had a very high possibility of surviving even nuclear winter.

'As for the mutated Snake-Necked Turtles here, their inner bodies seem to work even faster. It probably takes them under a year to mature from the ovum.' Leylin touched his chin in thought. Evidently, the reproductive capabilities of these mutated Snake-Necked Turtles were intensified to prevent the extinction of their species. Of course, it came as an acquired evolution.

It can be seen, then, from these selective evolutions that the Snake-Necked Turtles definitely did not possess any form of superiority and were actually at the bottom of the food chain, waiting to be preyed on.

*Hoot!* Just as Leylin was preparing to bring back samples of Snake-Necked Turtle blood for further study, he heard a high-spirited, piercing screech.

It caused an uproar in the community of Snake-Necked Turtles and all of them starting speeding towards the lake. Those that were already in the lake dived deep in and never surfaced.

The screech got increasingly louder and Leylin could see a streak of crimson on the horizon due to the several-fold increased senses of his body.

The creature was a type of giant hawk-like being. Glossed with the colour of blood, its feathers were smooth yet solid, its head accessorised by stalks of golden feathers giving the illusion of a crown.

[Blood Vulture detected! Creature of the ancient era. They attack with sound waves and can manipulate the blood of their target. They possess a strong interest in bloodline-related treasures and are communal creatures. Evaluation: Extremely dangerous!]

The A.I. Chip pushed into his sight.

"Blood Vulture!?" Leylin's expression quickly grew from shock to joy.

'They have extraordinary sensory ability towards idiosyncratic bloodlines on top of their superb vision. A strand of hair on the ground could be detected easily even from an altitude of 10,000 feet. Mostly kept as pets by ancient warlocks to seek bloodline treasures!'

'But…' Leylin hesitated as he read the danger evaluation of it.

Just the strength of this particular Blood Vulture was enough to caution Leylin. It could equate to a human rank 3.

Moreover, the A.I. Chip stated that they were communal creatures, there were definitely more rank 3 members back in its nest or even a King Blood Vulture! The king would, no doubt, be a rank 3 Crystal Phase being, and may even have reached the Morning Star realm!

*Hoot!* The Blood Vulture sounded out occasionally as it sailed in the air causing fear within the community of Snake-Necked Turtles, something which seemed to encourage the vulture even more.

*Bang!* A single Snake-Necked Turtle, with a wounded leg, stood out as it trailed behind the mass of them, and fell to the ground under the stampede.

Deciding that it was time to stop the fun, the Blood Vulture flapped its wings and plunged straight to the ground.

The strong winds that followed its action already had Leylin stunned. The remarkable size of the vulture, much bigger than the Snake-Necked Turtle, slowly came into view as it drew closer to the ground.

The contrast between their forms was not obvious when the Blood Vulture flew in the sky, but compared when closer by, the huge Snake-Necked Turtles were like mice to the Blood Vulture.

*Hoot!* The Blood Vulture stretched its huge claw and punched a hole in the head of the Snake-Necked Turtle. The thing fell, blood splattering everywhere...