Chapter 1717 - WMW 91

The Eternal River pocket dimension had been discovered when Leylin was just a rank 1 Magus. The fact that it still hadn't been divided into respectful affiliations was something that surprised Leylin.

Looking at the detailed patterns on the large metal gate that towered into the clouds, Leylin couldn't help but recall the scene when he'd advanced.

That year, he'd used a large amount of this metal gate's spiritual force as well as the souls of numerous Magi, to push himself forward and advance to rank 2 in one move.

Memories of all that had happened were still fresh in his mind, yet all of the people in them had disappeared. Leylin felt slightly regretful.

"Yes, Sir. Please wait a moment." That guard immediately placed his hands on the surface of the large gate. The metal gate immediately rumbled, emitting a dazzling radiance.

"Eh." Looking at the guard captain, Leylin let out a soft gasp.

"Did you discover something, Lord Leylin?" The head of the Lighthouse of the Night laughed from the side.

"Mm," Leylin nodded, "This Magus is the reincarnation of the original core of the metal gate's consciousness?" When he heard these words, the guard captain's body suddenly trembled.

"Indeed. We put a lot of effort in then and managed to subdue the gate's core of consciousness. We then nurtured it and had it reincarnate, finding it a suitable corporeal body required great effort…" Anye chuckled at the side.

"However, with this person, manipulating the gate of the pocket dimension has become much more convenient. Now, it is our Dark Night Lighthouse's honoured professor— Jeans!"

"Jeans? Good name!" Leylin analysed him.

Until the other party was a little creeped out, he then chuckled and a spot of light flew into Jeans' forehead.

The surface of his body made a futile attempt to emit a layer of metal defence but to no avail. He could only helplessly watch as the radiance entered his foreheadd.

"Sir Leylin, this is…" Anye grew anxious, but he did not step out and stop him.

One reason was that he knew Leylin's strength, that he would only invite humiliation upon himself by doing so. Another was that recent interactions caused him to realise that Leylin was not a Magus that was easy to kill. His personality was also good, so he was doing this with some unique intention.

"Lad, just treat this thing as my gift…" Leylin chuckled, stepped into the large gate while Nyssa followed closely behind.

"You guys be careful!" Anye was confused, but still followed him in, only leaving behind Jeans who stood there in a trance.

He didn't feel pain after the light invaded him. Instead, it transformed into a message that entered his sea of consciousness, instantly causing him to fall into a trance.

Many alphabets formed the beginning, "High-grade meditation technique: Dark Gold World — Suitable for metal innate skill!"

"My Lord?" Anye asked after he followed Leylin into the Eternal Plains pocket dimension, unable to endure it any more.

"Relax, I'm just giving him some benefits!" Leylin smiled. He owed his rank 2 advancement to the core consciousness of the metal gate to the Eternal River Plains pocket dimension. Now that he'd found a body with the same core origin, he naturally wanted to make up for what he'd done.

All of this followed his personality, but Leylin wouldn't shackle himself: if he hadn't seen Jeans today he probably wouldn't have thought of this at all.

"Central continent, south coast, Twilight Zone, and Chernobyl Islands…"

Leylin's gaze flickered continuously, "Once I've broken free from the threads of destiny, it'll be time for me to let go of everything and break through my bloodline shackles!"

Although he didn't know why he wanted to do this, Leylin had a feeling that this would bring him only benefits.

"Huff…" After listening to Leylin's explanation, although Anye was still slightly curious as to why Leylin favoured Jeans, he still finally heaved a sigh.

Three rays of glaring light streaked across the sky, suddenly pushing their way through the Eternal Plains pocket dimension.

Light flickered continuously in Leylin's eyes. Ever since he'd displayed strength at Morning Star to subdue the light and dark Magi, he'd essentially become the uncrowned king of the south coast. The Magi vied with each other to complete the tasks he wanted done. Whether they were a light Magus or dark, just a single command from him would make them work desperately for him.

Such an inconceivable thing had happened due to Leylin's power. It caused many uninformed people from the lower classes to cry out in incredulity. There were even some busybodies who proclaimed that the south coast would soon welcome an era of peace. But in fact, they were all thinking too much.

With the power of the masses at his beck of call, Leylin quickly made progress on finding people and dealing with past grudges. Krupp and Darlie were also married in the meantime, Leylin having hosted the ceremony. With that done, they returned to the Chernobyl islands to establish a kingdom in the original lands of the Farlier Family.

After everything was resolved, Leylin wanted to leave everything behind. But, the dark and light Magi made a request of him. Although he wanted to leave, the Farlier Family would remain behind here, and furthermore Leylin was quite interested in what the dark and light Magi had mentioned. Hence, he still came to this place.

Leylin and the other two weren't ordinary Magi. They moved at extremely high speeds, and it was but a short while before they arrived at the centre of the pocket dimension. A continuous building complex was present here, with the symbols of various Magus organisations in the surroundings. These were clearly large-scale ruins.

There was a momentary uproar in many of the camps present at their arrival, but soon after a white light transformed into an old white-browed Magus who welcomed them.

The moment he saw Leylin, he immediately bowed down in respect, "Nonov pays his respects to Your Highness Leylin Farlier, the great Morning Star Magus! I hope Your Highness will forgive our rude actions before, we are willing to pay any price…" This Magus was one of the impressive higher-ups of the light Magi that had originally attacked Leylin.

Ever since they'd been rebuffed by Leylin and had the Blade of Avarice destroyed, the three highest executives of the light Magi fell into silence.

Only, once news about Leylin advancing to Morning Star spread, Ennea Ivory Ring Tower which was Nonov's organisation carried out Leylin's orders the most thoroughly. They were at his beck and call, handling many issues with the obvious intent of atonement and to curry favour.

Hence, as Leylin looked at this old scoundrel, he only rolled his eyes, "Rise!"

"Thank you Lord Leylin! Your benevolence is like the torrential ocean, vast and boundless, as if it can contain the entire universe…" Nonov stood up smiling to please him and consciously stood behind Leylin, causing Nyssa and Anye who were at the side to be utterly speechless.

"I'm not here for that matter today, let's go!" Leylin arrived in the sky above a patch of the ruins and looked over everything. The buildings were simple and unsophisticated yet solemn, carrying a unique appeal. They were arranged in a surprisingly logical manner, and seemed to surround a mysterious spell formation.

"This is…" Leylin's pupils narrowed, and his face turned gloomy.

"My Lord?" Anye and Nonov closed up and surrounded him.

Leylin waved his hands at their inquiring gazes, "I can't confirm anything for now, let's talk after we enter the core hall."

"Of course. Please come with us, My Lord," Anye and Nonov hurried to the front to lead the way. With those two leading, Leylin would of course be unobstructed in the remains.

"This place is a base that emerged after the destruction of a large gate pocket dimension. At one time, we thought that the secret of the person who made the Eternal Plains pocket dimension was here, and fought many battles for it. In the end, we still wound up concluding on a joint expedition…" Nonov seemed to be a little regretful.

"We initially found many good things in these ruins, even remains of the ancient Wisdom Tree. We finished our exploration of the place 55 years ago, but who'd know we'd discovered even more incredible items than that…" Anye added from the other side. It wasn't convincing.

As the two spoke, Leylin explored the buildings one after the other to arrive at the centre-most ground.

This was an unnamed temple. There were large white stone pillars on all sides, and with no door and no walls, it could be entered from any direction. The roof exposed a large circular gap where the sky could be seen through the dome.

The hall was absolutely empty, it was only the ground that retained even more complicated and detailed patterns.

"Lord Leylin, look…" Anye and Norov glanced at each, with looks of agony on their faces.

Leylin though wasn't paying attention, mesmerised by the large patterns on the ground, "This is…"

'A.I. Chip, conduct scan!' he immediately commanded.

[Beep! Mission established, beginning scan!] The A.I. Chip's mechanical voice echoed, and there was a response soon after.

[Ancient combined sealing spell formation! Already discovered technique: Annihilating runes, dimensional seal, powerful isolation…]

"Indeed, the building complex here is a part of the large sealing spell formation, and the core is right here!" Leylin looked at the ground. The complicated patterns began to move around, as if they had a life of their own.

"The special nature of the ruins' core caused both parties to keep fighting around it. It wasn't until the appearances of Gargamel and the Primordial Spirit Slaying Sect that both of us united together to explore the ruins. It caused a rapid increase in progress, then we found… we found…"

Leylin lifted his head, "You found that this place was an entrance to the subterranean world's first layer, but it's been sealed?"

Nonov and Anye both looked at Leylin with shocked expressions. Even with their age they'd had to flip through many antique books before they could know, but Leylin could actually recognise it at first glance. This ability…

Could it be that because he was a Morning Star Magus, he was really omnipotent?

-x-X-x-

"Lord Leylin is extremely erudite," Nonov said in praise, "Ever since the ruins appeared the seal has slowly been lifting. No matter what methods we think of, we haven't been able to stop this process…"

"And you've come to me as a last resort." Leylin's snort had Nonov and Anye break out in cold sweat but he didn't concern himself with them, instead stroking his chin as he fell into deep thought.

Although the subterranean world was rich in resources, with the violent invasion of the ancient Magi many of the tribes there didn't have a favourable impression of humans. Although humans remained there, after so many years would they side with the humans or the subterranean world? The latter possibility was more likely.

The subterranean world was vast and boundless, and wasn't lacking in powerful Morning Stars even in the first layer. There should even be rank 5 existences there.

Twilight Zone was only a very small part of this first layer, just like how the south coast was just a part of the surface world. Furthermore, even in spite of its long isolation, there were many terrifying tribes there.

Thus, it wasn't hard to understand why Nonov and Anye grew extremely panicky seeing the seal wither away.

"A.I. Chip, based on the current rate, how much longer will the seal last?" A blue light shone from Leylin's eyes before he had the answer.

With a series of calculations, the A.I. Chip gave an extremely precise answer. [Beep! Calculating with current rate of decay, estimated time to total disintegration is 28572h 34min and 12s.]

To the A.I. Chip which had already been renewed several times, this level of operation was only the simplest.

"You invited me here, what exactly is it for? If it is to strengthen the seal, I'm afraid I can only delay it for at most a hundred years' time…"

After he finished calculating, Leylin stroked his chin and said to Nonov and Anye.

"How… How can this be? Sir is a Morning Star ranked Magus!"

Such an outcome caused Nonov and Anye to be a little in disbelief.

"Hmph! If it's just to strengthen the seal. although it's relatively harder, it's not that I'm unable to do it, but now, the entire Eternal River pocket dimension has been completely developed for several hundred years, most the remains here have also been destroyed by you…"

Leylin snorted, watching Nonov and Anye, his tone was very hostile, "In fact, the entire Eternal River pocket dimension is a part of this seal. The Magus who set up this pocket dimension had long before installed the time when the pocket dimension would appear, he even used your greed and sped up this process artificially…"

"Until now, the breaking of the entire seal is already something that's unavoidable!"

"We're done for! We south coast, are we really going to be completely destroyed?" Nonov's both eyes were slightly despondent. If it really linked to the underground, apart from his Ennea Ivory Ring Tower moving to a distant place and collectively migrating, there was no other better way.

On the other side, Anye's expression was also very dark. Towards the viciousness of the underground tribes and their hatred towards humans, he who had the reference of historical books knew even more clearly.

Once they were attacked and occupied, probably not just Magi, even ordinary humans would face extinction.

Watching these two Magi who had sunk into a struggle, Leylin's pupils were very calm.

In fact, with the Radiant Moon strength and the assistance of the A.I. Chip, if he made an all-out effort, not stinting on cultivating more precious materials, it was not impossible to entirely seal this pocket dimension. However, the crucial thing was, how would that benefit him?

Nonov and Anye were both rank 3 Magi, they were small and weak like ants before the underground tribes. Naturally, they would not wish to see them infiltrate the surface and threaten their positions.

But Leylin was different! He was already a rank 5 warlock! His military strength was outstanding and the underground world's first layer was also the weakest underground world, he totally had the premise of associating equally with the underground powerhouses!

With the underground world's rich mineral resources, their legacy that had been passed down from the ancient times and the entirely different spell system, they could definitely bring Leylin great benefits.

He believed, not just himself, even if it were other Morning Star existence in the central continent, once they knew about this passageway, they probably would not choose to seal it too.

"How? Have you thought about it? If you are willing, I can step out and strengthen the seal, gaining you a hundred years' time…"

After a few minutes, Leylin spoke indifferently.

"Then… please, Sir!" Nonov and Anye took a glance at each other and in the end still gritted their teeth and requested.

No matter what, if there was another hundred years' time, be it discussing a countermeasure or directly retreating, there was more allowance for them.

"Okay! Pass down my command, seal this area, I want to set up a strengthening spell…"

After hearing them say that, Leylin nodded but instead sent away the two Magi who wanted to stay and help.

A Morning Star light screen enveloped the entire central hall with a buzz. Blue radiance was emitted in all directions, isolating it from the outside world.

"Ancient combined sealing spell…" The blue radiance in Leylin's pupils flickered, many materials were casually taken out from the space equipment.

According to his original intentions, it was naturally to open the seal as soon as possible and gain the benefits. However, his current condition was not good, the Allsnake Curse was like a sharp sword hanging above his head, causing him to have to end things here as quickly as he could and head towards the Purgatory World to resolve the bloodline's shackles.

Hence, postponing the disintegration of the seal for a period of time was also something that was in accordance to Leylin's interests.

"Perhaps, there might be a need to move the Ouroboros Clan here in the future, grasping trade with the underground world…"

Leylin had already drawn out a blueprint regarding the development of the Ouroboros Clan in his mind. The expansion of the entire Ouroboros Clan in the central continent had already reached its limits. Even without the appearance of the Flame Monarch, it would meet the resistance of other Magi sooner or later.

Although the elemental particles environment in the south coast was not much, towards warlocks that relied mainly on bloodline force, the influence in this aspect was much smaller than Magi.

Moreover, the entire central continent had not yet connected to the underground world's passageway, what was discovered occasionally, were just a few totally sealed miniature underground space like that of the Twilight Zone.

Once a passageway that connects to the entire underground world was developed, even simply controlling trade between the two places would bring about huge benefits, enough to allow the Ouroboros Clan to make a rapid development.

"The top priority now, is still to confirm if this connects to that ancient completed underground layer of the underground world or the miniature sealed area like that of the Twilight Zone…"

Leylin stroked his chin, there was even a radiance constantly flickering in his pupils, "If the place this links to is really that ancient underground layer, as long as we occupy here, the profits gained by the Ouroboros Clan would definitely not a little bit less than the Monarch of the Skies that has control over the entire central continent's airship network…"

"A.I. Chip! Export spell formation layout!"

[Beep! Mission established, beginning coordination with supplementary assignment…] The A.I. Chip's sound was as mechanical as usual, without the slightest emotions in it.

A complicated yet detailed formation diagram was rapidly exported from the A.I. Chip's database and was being projected by fluorescent light onto the hall's floor.

The spell formation diagram illustrated by the fluorescent light combined with the original patterns on the floor harmoniously, forming a brand new formation.

[Beep! Separating black hole spell formation deduction setup completed, estimated rate of success 98.99%!] The A.I. Chip sounded again.

"Very good!" A piece of mithril with black spots was melted into juice before Leylin, spreading out evenly onto the ground at the position where the fluorescent light had originally shone.

With Leylin's current alchemy grand master's academic achievements and the A.I. Chip's fine and detailed assistance, the entire setting up of the spell formation proceeded very smoothly and was thoroughly completed in almost half an hour.

Only, when setting up, Leylin would certainly not do it according to Nonov and Anye's requests, he included many of his own smuggled goods in it instead.

The entire spell formation continuously rumbled with a buzz, streaks of silver radiance rippled on the ground.

[Beep! Spell formation energy operating normally! Compatibility of connection 91.673%!]

Large amounts of data floated across Leylin's eyes, he could not help but nod secretly, "It is a linking technique that is acquired after all, to have 90% compatibility is already not bad!"

"Then…" Leylin took in a deep breath. "A.I. Chip!"

[Open up the connection assignment, attempting to establish a spatial link, searching coordinates!] Accompanying the A.I. Chip's sound, the patterns on the ground suddenly changed, its circulating speed was continuously increasing. Faint silver light emerged, undulating in mid-air, even slowly forming into a state of a semicircular arched door.

Opposite the arched door, was a patch of thick darkness and a mirror-like radiance was constantly emitted.

This was the smuggled goods Leylin had added. At the same time while strengthening the seal, Leylin also left a way of escape for himself, and could even reach the other side of the space with the prerequisite of not damaging the original seal by directly going through the crack in the spell formation.

"You guys guard here, no matter who comes, kill them all!"

Leylin flicked his hands and four translucent void assassins emerged. He faintly ordered a few sentences and these four assassins immediately vanished into the void.

Possessing rank 3 limit strength and with the addition of this kind of ability to go through the void, void assassins were almost invincible existences in the south coast.

Four void assassins along with the spell formation outside that Leylin had set up, even if the dark and light Magi joined forces, they would definitely not be able to fight their way in.

Although Leylin was more reassured towards Nonov and Anye and he also knew that they did not have the guts, he would not entrust his hopes on their reverence towards him just like that.

Countless historical examples have all proven that this was something very foolish, Leylin would certainly not do that.

-x-X-x-

After preparing his backup plan, Leylin swished his robes and entered the arched door in mid-air. An icy membrane rippled as he passed through it. The moment he materialised, Leylin realised he'd stepped into another place.

A dark, frigid aura permeated the air, one that was specific to the subterranean world. The density of darkness and earth energy particles was even greater than in Twilight Zone.

"This is the other end of the spatial tunnel, huh?" Leylin swept his gaze across the surroundings. He was currently in a palace hall of sorts, where bizarrely styled sculptures were scattered around the vicinity.

Once the light in the spell formation subsided, a thick layer of dust could be observed in the area.

"Inextinguishable Flame!" Leylin pointed ahead and a bright and beautiful flame floated in front of him.

'This place seems to have been deserted for a very long while. Is it the depths of an ancient ruin?' Leylin scanned the surroundings with his soul force, before realising that the whole area seemed to be protected by a layer of mysterious energy. This mysterious energy even suppressed the soul force of a Magus.

However, given that his truesoul was at Half Moon, he could still cover a sizeable portion of the area. It wasn't long before he discovered several passageways leading out.

'I hope there aren't any complex spell formations outside, this will become very troublesome.' Leylin walked towards a large door, the unadorned yet aw-inspiring stone standing over ten metres tall. On the left of the doors was the sculpture of a devil, on the right that of a beautiful angel.

*Ka-cha!* *Ka-cha!*

Leylin stretched his hand forward as he pushed the door. Suddenly, two powerful streaks of lightning flashed and struck Leylin, but was repelled by Kemoyin Scales.

A pitch-black tunnel appeared in front of Leylin and without any hesitation, he stepped forward.

"I never expected that I would chance across some Magi on an expedition. This will save me loads of time!"

The corners of Leylin's lips curled upwards as he blended in with the darkness, before moving at a speed that defied the logics of physics.

…..

On the other side, a group of adventurers were running for their lives, escaping from something in the tunnel.

"Quick! It's catching up!"

This group of adventurers had a warrior adorning armour, an archer carrying a wooden bow, and the one that made up the most numbers were a group of Magi garbed in robes and carrying strange tools. This party composition was still rather decent. However, this small party now were scurrying away in fear from something behind them, their clothes torn and tattered. Traces of blood tainted their body, revealing profuse injuries.

*Dum dum! Dum dum!* Behind them, in the darkness, thuds of heavy footsteps were heard.

Upon hearing these noises, the people in the small party had their colour drained from their faces as they continued to flee at a faster speed.

*Crash!* A dark streak of light flashed, carrying a black long spear. It immediately penetrated the innate spell defense of one of the Magi, pinning him to the floor.

"Xander! Damn it!" The leader, a brown haired youth, turned back and saw his companion pinned to the ground with blood streaming out of his mouth. However, he gritted his teeth and continued fleeing.

"Run! Hurry and run!" His eyes turned bloodshot as he screamed at the top of his lungs.

At the same time, a blazing flame of unwillingness and regret gnawed at his soul bit by bit. "We were too careless! With our combined strength of three stars ranking, this vestige is way out of our league! Damn it! The danger level here is at least five stars! As long as I manage to make it out, I will definitely slay that damned asshole!"

"No! Xander! The female archer slinging the bow on her back halted immediately as she knelt beside the Magus pinned to the ground. She then took out a green vial of potion and poured it on his wounds.

"It's no use!" The leader roared, but he never stopped running.

Tens of seconds later, that blood curdling scream of his female party member sounded. The leader's face turned even more pale as he sped up.

*Dum dum! Dum dum!*

The footsteps sounded behind him, like that of a death god who had come to reap their souls. Although the footsteps were slow, the speed was extremely fast. Not long later, the youth heard several more wretched cries behind him.

It was only until now that he realised, to his astonishment, that not one of his companions had remained.

"No! I can't die here! I have to be a five stars adventure and even the crowned King Adventurer! I have goals yet to be fulfilled, and to return the glory of my family, the revenge, and also my…"

Another beam of black light shot towards him and stopped his train of thoughts. Although the youth had attempted to maneuver out of the way, he was still grazed by that black light, causing him fall to the ground and cough out a pool of blood.

*Dum dum! Dum dum!* Along with the footsteps, a giant figure emerged from the darkness.

It was a giant that stood tall at over three metres, with two long shafts of spears slung on its back. Complex runes covered his body, giving off a metallic lustre.

There was a grim expression on its face, as if it belonged to a dead creature. Only two scarlet rays of light were projected from its pupils.

"It's… It's here…." The youth teeth clattered. This undead creature that stood in front of him was a defense mechanism of the vestige. Previously, when the group had broken through a tomb like room, it had started to chase them.

The undead giant had a powerful physical attack, with a high resistance to magic spells. It led the youth to despair; he could only watch on as his party members perished one by one under the hands of this giant. Ultimately, he was the only one left standing.

*Dum dum! Dum dum!* The giant walked over as he unsheathed one of the spears on his back.

"No! I don't want to.... Please…" Tears poured from the youth's eyes as he start to turn deranged.

*Whoosh!" The spear thrusted forward, but funnily enough, it remained hoisted in midair. The anticipated pain did not come, which caused the youth to reopen his eyes.

He saw a black shield protecting him at the front, engaging in a deadlock with the spear.

"I'm...I'm saved!" The youth collapsed weakly and laid on the ground, with tears of joy flowing from his eyes.

"Ahoooo!" The giant withdrew his spear and turned his body to the back, howling towards the darkness. Very soon, he staggered half a step backwards, as if some sort of ferocious predator was in front of it.

"Interesting!" 'Although it seems to be a body made of flesh and blood, there seemed to be some modifications added to it. It's rather akin to a metallic bodied demon right now huh? Even it consciousness was wiped out, with the only defense mechanism within it remaining…"

Leylin stepped forward from the shadows, blue light shining from his eyes as he scanned the giant in front of it.

"Moreover… These runes on the body, it seemed really similar to that of Branded Swordsmen…"

Leylin always held onto part of the Branded Swordsman's inheritance, but it was extremely lacking of information. Even after the simulation and conjecture from the A.I. Chip, it could only reached the strength of a rank 1 Magus, which was not of much use.

Right now, after the A.I. Chip had upgraded several times and even added troves of information from the Great Library, it could raise the power of Branded Swordsman from rank 1 to 3. However, for Leylin who had the backing of the Ouroboros Clan and the Warlock Alliance, these Branded Swordsman were relatively useless to him. Hence, Leylin did not mass produce these Branded Swordsman cannon fodder.

However, at this moment, Leylin could clearly see the runes of Branded Swordsman on this giant.

Although the the style is slightly different, with modifications made on top of the original school of thought, this is no doubt the runes of Branded Swordsmen.

Just from looking at the runes and the energy that it radiated had gave Leylin many fresh ideas and inspiration about the Branded Swordsman.

Perhaps, after combining the knowledge found on the continent and in the subterranean world, the A.I. Chip might be able to produce runes which can create Morning Star Branded Swordsman.

"Arghhhhh!" Although the giant has discovered how powerful Leylin was, the defense mechanism inside its consciousness still made it reach out his hands.

Two black spears soared towards Leylin like two dragons.

*Peng!* *Pa!* A layer of black scales emerged from Leylin's palms. As astonishing scene was created accompanied by sparks and screeching sounds.

The two black spears that the giant hurled had been caught firmly in Leylin's palms.

"Hmm! The explosive power isn't bad, with the strength at 50 degrees of so. It is rather similar to a rank 3 Magus attack!" Leylin nodded his head, but the youth at the side had his eyes bulging out.

During the escape earlier, he had seen many of his companions perish under the mighty black spear. Even magic defense spells proved to be no defense against it.

However, Leylin had managed to catch it in his hands.

"This Magus, is he a monster too?" The youth looked at Leylin's appearance, garbed in luxurious black robes with a mask. Leylin gave off a regal yet mysterious aura, yet he did not seem to be a savage or tyrant.

"Groarrr!" The giant was stupefied momentarily before giving off a huge roar.

The sound waves involuntarily forced the youth to cover his ears. At the same time, black energy particles which could be seen by the naked eye surged towards the giant like water to a sponge, as the runes on the giant's body began to flicker.

"Groarrrrr!' With the howling noises made, a spell began to surface. The image of a dark creature's head appeared, baring its razor sharp fangs as it was sent flying towards Leylin.

"Rank 3 spell — Darkness Crunch?" This spell seemed to be missing on the continent for thousands of years. Only the Great Library in Sky City had mentioned of this before.

Leylin rubbed his chin. A lost and forgotten spell need not necessarily meant that it was powerful. It could be due to not keeping up with the times and entered natural selection. He would definitely not make the assumption that anything ancient is powerful.

The blue light in Leylin's eyes flashed and the A.I. Chip made its calculations.

Seconds later, the principle of this rank 3 spellcasting and even the spell model had been conjectured by the A.I. Chip.

"So this is how it works! Although this spell isn't too bad, but it requires a huge amount of darkness elemental energy particles. No wonder the central continent had phased this spell out!"

-x-X-x-

With the A.I. Chip's deductions, Leylin instantly obtained the spell's model, and learnt all of its weaknesses.

'The darkness elemental particles just aren't concentrated enough in the central continent. Perhaps it can only be used in a paradise for dark Magi like the subterranean world.'

"Fight darkness with light!" A holy white radiance was formed at Leylin's fingertip. While he was a dark Magus himself, it wasn't like he couldn't use any life or light element spells.

In reality, with enough spiritual force and access to spell models, Magi could employ spells of any type. However, there was a difference due to vitality and elemental affinity. Leylin might be extremely proficient with darkness spells, even having an added bonus to their power, but he would find it difficult to use light and life element spells, and the power could even be diminished.

Now, for instance, the light-type spell that Leylin was casting consumed a lot of energy to produce a spell half as strong as one by a regular Magus. He'd long since solidified darkness elemental particles, something that only made it harder for him to use light spells.

However, with Leylin's current strength, even a small portion of his power would cause the spell to be a bane to all darkness.

Leylin seemed to move exceedingly slowly, but somehow arrived above the monster before it could do anything. The light-tipped finger tapped the centre of the monster's skull.

"Awoo!" A bit of light shone above the monster's head, before it began to flicker and become more dazzling.

*Ka-cha! Ka-cha!* Like the sound of glass breaking, many cracks appeared on its head and it then exploded, melting into nothingness amidst the white light.

"Mm! Light-type spells can still restrain darkness-type spells, but that also depends on the strength of both parties."

Leylin had his own understanding of the relationship between elements. If darkness elemental particles were to be likened to fire, then light-type energy particles would be like water.

While a ladle of water could extinguish sparks, it could do nothing against a sea of fire.

On the other hand, if the fire was intense enough, a few droplets of rainwater would be evaporated.

"Awoo…" After the monster head was easily smashed by Leylin, the black giant took several steps back. In its dull, mechanical eyes, traces of terror could be seen.

He let out a few meaningless howls and made to escape.

But how could Leylin let go of such a great guinea pig?

"Stay here!" Along with Leylin's slight smile, a few black shackles appeared in mid-air and bound him tightly. No matter how the giant kept snarling, there was nothing he could do against these chains.

Soon after, his figure shrunk in size till it entered a crystal ball in Leylin's hands, like a bug that was frozen in amber.

"Mm! The hoarding spell works, which means he isn't some living being but a magic being without a soul!"

While it was just a short period of time exchanging blows with him, Leylin now had an understanding of the composition of the giant.

He had evidently gone through the refining of a Branded Swordsman and had even reached a very high level. His body had already gone through elemental modification and become crystallised and somewhat translucent.

This material was the best to make magic beings. After elemental modification, flesh not only retained its original defensive and offensive abilities, it could use spells without obstructions.

In just a short period of time, this was all Leylin could tell. For things on a deeper level, he would need to do more experiments and dissection.

"This… lord, thank you for… your help!"

At this moment, Leylin noticed the young adventurer collapsed on the ground at the side. He was evidently a Magus, though he had a very low rank. This was all the strength he had, and yet had come to explore. He was rather lucky not to die from the mechanisms or curses.

"Hm? This language?" His thanks meant nothing to Leylin, but the language he spoke in delighted Leylin.

"It's very similar to the Twilight Language, though there are minute differences in pronunciation. There's no need to learn a new language!"

Leylin was surprised, but then found this reasonable. Twilight Zone was a part of the subterranean world, and was only isolated because of the battle between two Morning Stars. Before that happened, they must have been using the same language and writing as the subterranean world.

"Mm. What's your name?" Since the issue with language was solved, Leylin had no desire to search his soul.

The information he needed was too high-levelled, and someone with such a tiny role would not know much.

With Leylin's Dreamscape force field, he was confident he could make this person reveal basic information on the culture and geography unwittingly.

"My– My name is Jo– Jorgian!" The young Magus was silent for a while and then stated his name.

"Your name is very unique!" Leylin commented. It wasn't unexpected for the social customs of the underground world to be different from Magi on the surface.

"By the way, where is this… What's the world outside like?"

Leylin asked without holding back. A hazy force field was produced from his body. This was the ability he had gained after undergoing dreamscape modification, and he possessed powerful illusory strength.

Ever since he had gotten this, Leylin would not search souls or any similar methods unless it was truly necessary.

A Magus who played around with souls would not have a good name in the Magus World. When unnecessary, Leylin still wished to maintain his reputation.

A good reputation was still a benefit. If used well, he might even obtain unexpected rewards.

"This is the Thunderbird region, and rumoured to be the holyland of the Lyas family..." After Leylin's words, Jorgian first looked daze, eyes losing focus, before he began to disclose everything unwittingly.

The more he heard, the more Leylin looked solemn.

"Poor little guy! He's been enticed into adventuring into someone else's restricted area…" After he'd listened to everything, Leylin watched Jorgian, eyes full of pity.

'This little guy has definitely fallen into some huge conspiracy…'

However, this was none of his business. He'd found out that this was the territory of the Arthur Empire underground, and this was a massive empire. There were large numbers of other races outside, and had a surface area countless times larger than Twilight Zone.

In the Arthur Empire, there had never been a lack of Morning Star ranks. There were even rumours of Radiant Moon Magi.

Such good news allowed Leylin to confirm that there was a huge possibility of this place being the complete first layer of the underground.

"Hm?" After Leylin got all the intel he wanted, Jorgian immediately looked alert, and then turned sorrowful, "My apologies… at the thought of my companions, I became absent-minded…"

In his memories, Leylin had only asked why he had come to these ruins. He, who thought back to his comrades, was lost in thought.

A sad feeling rose in his heart, and he did not suspect any changes to his memories.

When it came to manipulating memories, Leylin was at the level of a grandmaster. This little Magus had had his memories altered and yet not discovered it at all.

As long as Leylin wanted to, he could work out a brand new set of memories from childhood to adulthood for any Magus below Morning Star without the other party noticing.

This was obviously something normal Radiant Moons or even Breaking Dawn Monarchs could do, but with the A.I. Chip's abilities to simulate reality, it just took more time and effort on Leylin's end.

"Alright, Mister Jorgian! I understand all you've gone through. Forgive me for my bluntness, but this is a place you really shouldn't be in. It's better for you to leave with me!"

Leylin took several steps forward. In exchange for the intel he had been given, he didn't mind saving the boy on the way and send him out of the ruins.

"Mm, thank you so much, my lord!" Jorgian's eyes were full of gratitude as he followed closely behind Leylin, as if afraid he would be left behind.

After all the dangers today, he knew very well that if Leylin did not bring him along, he would be trapped in the ruins sooner or later and die by the hands of the mechanisms.

...

*Hualala!* Numerous pitch-black lightning formed a cage with all types of beasts roaring.

A black dot the size of sesame constantly grew in size amidst the lightning and eventually turned into two figures, dashing out while braving the lightning.

"Alright, we're out!"

Leylin shook his robes and put Jorgian, who was in his arms, down.

"We're… out?" He still looked dazed. He had never known how dangerous the ruins were. Things had been smooth-sailing when he had entered, but while exiting, they had met with many dangers, especially the lightning jail at the exit. He'd remembered that when he had first arrived, there was no such spell pattern sealed here.

Seeing this, he was extremely relieved. If not for Leylin, he would probably die in the ruins even if he had nine lives.

Jorgian couldn't help but look at the black structures behind him. The ruins were now like a monster with its mouth wide open, swallowing the lives of all adventurers.

"My lord, do you think… we should… leave now?"

Jorgian asked carefully. He'd grown to understand Leylin's terrifying abilities after following him around.

"That's not possible now."

Leylin shook his head.

"Why?" Jorgian could not understand, and his expression quickly changed.

A few streaks of blue figures appeared around them at some point, surrounding them.

-x-X-x-

"How brazen of you, intruding into the restricted area of the Lyers Family!" The Magi surrounding Leylin and Jorgian wore robes and had long, ocean blue hair. To his surprise, these silver-pupiled, fair-skinned people had an obvious aura from a bloodline on them. They were a group of Warlocks!

'Bloodline Warlocks! I never thought there'd be Warlock inheritances in the subterranean world!' Light flashed in Leylin's eyes.

'No, this is only to be expected. After all, the subterranean world is much more vast than the surface world, and it's normal for there to be ancient Warlock inheritances. I just never expected that there would be Warlocks protecting the other side of the tunnel in the Eternal Plains pocket dimension…'

Leylin surveyed his surroundings. The Warlocks surrounding them looked very young, but this was a side-effect of their bloodlines. They were in face much older, and the aged aura created a huge contrast with their handsome faces.

'They're at least rank 2… Also, this bloodline?' A light blue tint covered Leylin's eyes. The surrounding Warlocks were just as shocked seeing that two people had been able to exit the restricted area.

;A.I. Chip, scan their bloodlines and match it with the database!; Leylin commanded inside his mind.

These Warlocks were under Morning Star, and did not notice any of Leylin's actions. The A.I. Chip quickly obtained what he wanted.

[Collection of bloodline data complete. Comparing with database… Determined to be ancient Thorned Thunderbird.]

Immediately after, the A.I. Chip showed all information on the ancient Thorned Thunderbird.

[Beep! Ancient Thorned Thunderbird, rank 6 being! Rumoured to be descendant of the primordial Thunderbird. Possesses powerful thunder and lightning abilities and soundwave attacks. Likes to dwell in areas with plentiful metal elementals. Evaluation: Incomparably dangerous. The nemesis of ancient metal race!]

"Bloodline Warlocks from rank 6 beings! No wonder I felt the bloodline giving me some slight pressure!"

Leylin watched the surrounding Warlocks with some pity in his eyes, "It's a pity that the Warlocks' bloodlines have weakened quite a bit and can't be purified to its original rank 6!"

The Warlocks surrounding Leylin might have bloodline from a rank 6 ancient Thorned Thunderbird, but their status was similar to the Black Horrall Snake Warlocks of the Ouroboros Clan. The bloodline had weakened and lost all the power from their ancestors.

"However, since they exist, there must be powerful people within this Warlock family. I should be able to purify their bloodline…"

Leylin shot a glance at these Warlocks with malicious intent, giving them a feeling as if calamity loomed.

"However, this is the Lyers family's restricted area, and you intentionally got these adventurers to enter. Seems like there's some unspeakable secret inside…"

Leylin thought about it for a while and did not eliminate the possibility of the Lyers family giving out this news in order to get blood sacrifices, attracting adventurers to come and explore.

If that was the case, it would explain why Jorgian and his crew were obviously low-ranked, but could enter the ruins without obstructions.

"Why are you still talking to them? All Magi who sully our Lyers Family have only the ending of death!"

The Warlocks of the Lyers family were urged on by someone like a leader and immediately chose to attack without hesitation. Fine, minute static electricity force field were produced from their bodies, forming a powerful domain that kept Leylin and Jorgian within. Leylin could practically feel their bloodlust, and they evidently wanted to keep them here no matter the cost.

"This spell?" Seeing these Warlocks all having blue electricity shooting everywhere that formed a large-scaled static electricity field that merged and amplified each other, Leylin looked slightly interested.

[Rank 1 spell: Static electricity field! Determined to be opponent's rank 1 innate spell that can produce static electricity force field on a large scale. Energy consumption at the minimum, and has effects of amplifying each other.]

The A.I. Chip transmitted the functions of the spell at this moment.

"Kill him!" The leader donned a layer of lightning armour, and two gigantic blue bright wings stretched behind his back, causing his speed to suddenly increase. He almost turned into a streak of blue lightning.

[Rank 2 Thorned Thunderbird Warlock Bloodline Spell determined to be: Lightning Armour, rank 3 bloodline spell: Wings of Lightning.]

Through the opponent's bloodline activities and spells, the A.I. Chip managed to gather much information, and large amounts of data was showed in front of Leylin.

"As expected of an ancient rank 6 bloodline. These innate abilities are very practical!"

Leylin sighed slightly. It was a pity that there were no Morning Star Warlocks in their midst. No matter how useful a spell, they were pointless if they did not reach a certain level.

"Break!" Leylin spat out a syllable and terrifying darkness-type elemental particles spread like a rising tide.

Surging energy particles thundered as they turned into a giant beast with a weapon, attacking the opponents' joint static electricity forcefield.

*Tss tss!* Blue sparks flashed and mixed with streams of black gas. Immediately after, there was a dull sound of thunder, and even the ground shook.

Miserable cries rose and fell in succession, and the Thunderbird Warlocks who were only rank 1 and 2 crumpled to the ground.

*Chiu chiu!* The leader in the air who saw this emitted a piercing cry, turning and then transforming into lightning and leaving.

"Get down here!"

Leylin's eyes were never on him, but a faint image of a double-headed black snake had already appeared on him, four blood-red eyes giving him a dead stare.

"Hss hss!" The snake kept flicking its tongue and quickly drew this leader into its mouth. Blue lightning flashed everywhere and then disappeared.

The double-headed black snake meandered to the ground and spat out the leader. However, he had already fainted, and the lightning around his body had disappeared without a trace.

"Too weak. Much too weak! This extent…"

Leylin narrowed his eyes. A bloodline like this wasn't enough to even arouse his interest to extract it.

"My- my lord! We…" At the other side, Jorgian, who had seen Leylin and Lyers fighting had been so afraid that he'd fainted before.

The Lyers family's reputation was like a sun in the sky within the Arthur Empire. It was said they had a Morning Sar in charge. Wasn't this Magus seeking death by provoking him?

However, the crux of the issue was that whether Leylin or the Lyers family, Jorgian could not afford to offend either side and almost burst into tears.

"I'll wait for a while more here. Leave first!" Leylin shooed him away.

"How– How can I leave my lord behind to confront the Lyers family?" He hesitated, but Leylin obviously could tell.

"Once their reinforcements come, it wouldn't be just these sort of low-ranked characters. What, you mean you're thinking of going against the Lyers family with me?"

Leylin had a half-smile on his face as he watched Jorgian.

"No, no, my lord! I shall take my leave first!" He immediately turned pale and fled at lightning-speed after bowing, as if there was some ferocious beast chasing him.

Watching his back, Leylin shook his head. He was just a tiny character after all, and if he really did stay, unafraid of death, he'd definitely be affected . Choosing to leave was a rather sensible decision.

Now, Leylin could not be bothered with this boy. He watched a trace of lightning shooting over from the distance, a smile lighting up his face slightly.

"Chiu chiu!" It was as if tens of thousands of birds were calling at the same time. When the lightning disappeared, there was another figure in the sky.

"You attacked them?" The newcomer was very young, and his brows were furrowed in his anger. He'd evidently been angered by the miserable state of the many Lyers family Warlocks on the ground.

"They offended me. I've been benevolent enough not to kill them. If I did things like I usually do, they can only descend to the underworld and repent for their sins!" Leylin shrugged.

*Huala!* White electric current streaked past, as if tearing through the sky. In mid air, the Warlock's overbearing and furious words could be heard, "Good, very good! Then I'll let you see a bit of my 'benevolence'!"

Terrifying energy from someone who had reached the realm of a rank 4 Warlock and attaining Morning Star burst from his body. Countless dark clouds converged, enveloping the whole region.

*Rumble!* Eight blue pillars of light instantly descended. Boundless lightning shot out from the pillars, forming a large purgatory.

Lightning and fire gathered in purgatory and trapped Leylin within.

[Rank 4 Thorned Thunderbird Warlock Bloodline Spell determined to be: Berserk Lightning Prison.] The A.I. Chip projected the opponent's spell before Leylin at this moment.

"A rank 4 spell. Looks like I have to get a little serious!"

Leylin's expression became grimmer. He, who now was struck by the Curse Mark of Ten Thousand Snakes, could only display Morning Star strength and was on par with the opponent.

*Chi chi! Huala!* Numerous electricity snakes surrounded by flames opened their mouths full of blood and devoured Leylin.

Dazzling lightning was very harsh on the eyes, but a hint of black rays leaked from the electricity.

The black radiance grew until it cut through the lightning, turning into an illusory, terrifying giant serpent and appeared behind Leylin.

"Hss…" The serpent had shackles with metallic stings, but it still paid that no mind as it snarled at the lightning clouds in the sky.

"Warlock? Such a terrifying an evil bloodline force?"

From within the thunderclouds, the Warlocks' bewildered voice could be heard. Following which, the voice silenced and turned into the piercing sounds of rumbling.

*Chiu chiu!*

A streak of dazzling blue radiance abruptly burst forth from the clouds, landing on Leylin's shoulder.

"Booming Thunderclap!" The opponent's voice only reached Leylin after the electricity struck Leylin.

-x-X-x-

Since he was struck by an attack that was faster than the speed of sound, Leylin could only hear it after the fact. His expression showed his confusion as he glanced at his shoulder.

His black scholar robes had already been torn up, revealing fine snake scales. However, they were now charred, and a few pieces had even fallen off. Traces of dark red could be seen where he was wounded.

"Not bad, you could break through my defences!" Leylin looked slightly stunned. Following that, terrifying black streams of gas converged on the serpentine figure behind him. It swelled up, flicking its tail forth.

*Boom!* A pillar of lightning broke down, and as if some chain reaction had been triggered the seven other pillars of lightning fell in succession, causing the Berserk Lightning Prison to crumble.

The giant serpent bellowed with rage, the sound waves engulfing the entire area and causing the thunderclouds in the air to be torn apart to reveal a tremendous bird.

The giant bird was dark blue, with each spike of a feather lustrous like steel. Streaks of blue lightning twirled around the bird, and it seemed magnificent, its eyes glinting with wisdom.

"The ancient Thorned Thunderbird? No, it's just an immature one that still isn't at its final stage." Warlocks with high-ranked bloodlines might have Morning Star Arcane Arts that allowed atavism, but they could only transform into a young version of their source creature. Bevis was the same. The Misty Fog Giant he'd transformed into was only an adolescent. Only after reaching the peak of their bloodline could a Warlock have the full might of the ancient creature.

The Thorned Thunderbird was a rank 6 being in ancient times, while the Warlock here was only at rank 4. The Thorned Thunderbird that he'd transformed into was naturally still young and immature.

However, it was a rank 6 being after all, and even if it was at its immature phase, it still surpassed many rank 4 beings.

*Chiu chiu!* The tremendous thunderbird called out as it soared in the air. Boundless lightning fell with each flap of its wings.

The electric arcs on his body grew increasingly dazzling till they enveloped his whole body and turned him into a large lightning bird. With ear-piercing rumbling, the lightning bird swooped down. Lightning flashed in the surrounding area constantly, creating a terrifying region of lightning.

"Interesting!" A smile adorned Leylin's lips and the Kemoyin Emperor's figure grew even more distinct, as if the ancient creature had truly come to this world.

"Hss…" The giant serpent snarled and collided with the lightning bird, giving rise to countless ripples.

*Rumble!* The earth tremored and energy undulations swept through the region. The smoke in the air formed a huge mushroom cloud, frightening power extending into the sky. The bedrock cracked, and large amounts of boulders that were tens of thousands of tonnes tumbled down to form giant pits upon collision.

Once all the smoke and dust settled, the area where Leylin had been now only had a large depression and pit. Much of the rock had just melted to form a unique crystal.

"Hah, hah…" One figure walked out from within the pit holding a black one.

"Damn it! If it weren't for the Allsnake Curse, this mere Morning Star Warlock wouldn't be able to harm me at all!" Fury was evident in Leylin's expression. Most of his clothes had been damaged, revealing the muscles below. He cut a sorry figure.

The opposing Morning Star Warlock, on the other hand, had completely fainted and was now held in Leylin's hands.

"Based on the intel from before, this Morning Star Warlock is only an elder in the Lyers family. There's still a Warlock who's surpassed Morning Star…" Leylin turned grim, "Kid, you're in luck! You might not have to die here today, but…"

*Pak!* Leylin tossed him to the ground casually, and a large syringe appeared in his hands.

"Though your body is only at rank 4, the blood concentration isn't half bad. It's enough to be used for samples and as a guinea pig."

...

A short distance away from these black ruins were dark hills. Lights were reflected from atop the hills, making it as dazzling as crystal. These hills had peaks made out of metal, and had at their heart a metallic castle that stood tall.

This was the Lyers Warlock Family's main base and where their headquarters was.

"It's rumoured that the Thorned Thunderbird likes places where high-grade metallic ores are in the surroundings. Looks like it's true!" Leylin floated in the air, observing the large castle. The Warlock from before looked dispirited while being held in Leylin's hand, eyes full of terror.

"Your humble servant, Leylin Farlier, is here to greet the Lyers family!" Leylin transmitted with a thick and low voice, not bothering with the Warlock in his hands. His voice resounded in the castle, making contact with endless spiritual force and soul force.

"Who is it?" "What a terrifying and sinister bloodline aura!" "Hm? Look who he has in his hands!" "He dares take an elder of our Lyers family captive. How bold!"

Various roars mixed with spiritual force charged out, but Leylin easily evaded them.

These people who were a dime a dozen obviously could not draw his interest. What Leylin focused on was the aura hidden deep inside the castle. This person had obviously passed through the threshold of Morning Star and entered rank 5.

Leylin floated in the air and waited for a long while. There were quite a few Warlocks with varying abilities that came out, but the owner of that aura wasn't even alarmed.

Leylin thought about it for a while, and his rank 5 Kemoyin Emperor figure appeared behind him. A trace of his Half Moon soul force surged out like a huge dragon.

The power of someone at the same rank immediately got the other party's attention. Violent lightning caused the earth to rumble and mountains to break as a powerful conscient came over.

"Who dares disturb my sleep?" Terrifying rank 5 aura was transmitted, wreaking havoc like a storm. Those Warlocks knelt down respectfully, "Grand Elder!"

A streak of lightning was like a godly sword that broke through the first floor and appeared in the air, revealing the figure of a middle-aged man.

His features were characteristic of the Lyers family— Dark blue long hair, silver pupils and slightly pale skin. However, his expression was ripe with arrogance, as if nothing in the world was worth troubling himself over.

After seeing Leylin, his expression grew less intense, "A rank 5 Warlock?! Why have you come to create trouble in our Lyers family? Hm, no, that aura…"

"My friend, how about we go to a remote area to discuss this further?" Leylin chuckled and flung the Warlock in his hands into the group of people, creating chaos amongst their ranks.

"Come with me!" The Warlock took a look at Leylin and disappeared like lightning, moving like a meteor.

Leylin followed behind him, large amounts of black gas surrounding his body. He did not move urgently, but while he didn't seem fast he kept up with the Warlock with no signs of falling behind.

The Warlock ahead brought Leylin along to a large oceanic lake before stopping.

"Good day, Sir. I am Leylin Farlier, and I hope…" Leylin began to speak, but his expression suddenly changed.

Dark blue lightning crashed down once more, and an attack that surpassed the Morning Star realm struck down. Booming Thunderclap appeared once more.

However, this time the spell's destructive ability was far more powerful than before. There were now five rays that attacked from different angles, sealing off Leylin's path of retreat. Afterwards, a gigantic Thorned Thunderbird phantom appeared behind Eam, widening its sharp beak in Leylin's direction.

Terrifying sound waves brought with them the power of thunder and lightning, "Rank 5 spell— Thorned Thundercry!"

The opponent had cast the spells quickly, and each one was hidden quite well. He practically didn't have to think at all. If this was a regular rank 5 Warlock, not having enough time to defend would be a very dangerous problem. However, Leylin was different, and his thoughts moved faster than electricity.

Just at the moment the lightning was about to reach his body, the tremendous phantom of a Kemoyin Emperor burst forth and wound itself around Leylin. A gigantic black hole began to form in the snake's mouth.

"Rank 5 Kemoin Emperor innate skill— Devour!" The five streaks of lightning were instantly sucked into the black hole, turning into an unending stream of life force.

Following that, piercing sound waves that were mixed with lightning and fire rushed forth and smashed into the large Kemoyin Emperor. Scales flew everywhere, but then regenerated at a rapid pace.

After these two waves of attacks passed, the Kemoyin Emperor figure dissipated to reveal Leylin who was not the least bit injured.

"Sir… What is the meaning of this?" Leylin asked in a cold voice, the iciness extending to his gaze.

'A.I. Chip, if I completely undo the seal, how long can I fight?' Leylin asked inside his head. His bloodline was still sealed, and dealing with a Morning Star Warlock was already quite tough on him. With a rank 5 bloodline Warlock with the bloodline of the ancient Thorned Thunderbird against him, things were even worse.

However, if the opponent wasn't tactful, Leylin had no choice but to completely unseal himself and teach him an unforgettable lesson, perhaps by ensuring his fall.

[Beep! Allsnake Curse will increase absorption rate if Host undoes seal. Maximum resistance time: 7min 34s] the A.I. Chip loyally intoned.

'In other words, after I undo my seal, I'll need to eliminate the opponent in seven minutes and then reseal my bloodline? Even if I manage that, there should be terrible consequences. A.I. Chip!'

[Beep! Each unsealing will reduce the time left to the curse flaring up by 7 months, even if successfully resealed.] the A.I. Chip intoned.

-x-X-x-

Leylin had previously sealed off his bloodline force to stop the curse from flaring up. Naturally, he could undo the seal in times of danger and restore his strength to the peak of rank 5. However, the curse would absorb even more energy from him every time he did so.

Even if he successfully sealed himself up again, the time he had left would be brought down by about seven months. Leylin had only two years left. Unless it was absolutely necessary, he definitely would not do this.

However, he would have no choice but to use this method in times of crisis, even if the temporary help resulted in long-term danger. Leylin's cold pupils were fixed on the rank 5 Warlock in front of him.

"Good, very good! Since you were able to take on my attack, you have the right to speak to me on equal grounds!"

Unexpectedly, the great elder revealed a rigid smile, "Let me introduce myself. My name is Eam, Eam Lyers. Rank 5 Warlock and the grand elder of the Lyers family!"

Seeing the opponent withdrawing all the electricity around his body, Leylin was rendered speechless. He could tell that this Eam was definitely a very arrogant Warlock. Unless he showed enough power to threaten him, it would be impossible to speak to him on equal terms.

Now, after attacking and finding out Leylin's abilities, he suddenly was more approachable.

Though still on his guard, Leylin was more than willing to avoid needless conflicts, "I've already introduced myself before. My name is Leylin! Lord Eam's way of greeting others is really quite unique."

"Hehe…" Eam merely smiled in answer to Leylin's words and did not address them. Instead, he observed Leylin with interest, "You aren't a Magus of the subterranean world, are you?"

"Indeed." There was no way for Leylin to hide this. Were he a rank 2 or 3 Magus, he could conceal himself from Eam since it would make sense for there to be no mention of him anywhere. But a rank 5 Warlock of unknown origins was rather suspicious.

Given that this was an inherited bloodline, how could there be no information on it? Would the Lyers family not know beforehand about a Warlock family with a rank 5 serpent bloodline?

Leylin had burst out of nowhere, and this rank 5 Warlock had no information about him. That led Eam to his conclusion.

"As expected, my Lord is a Magus from the world above ground!" Seeing Leylin admitting this, Eam nodded and looked confident.

"Yes, I do come from the surface, and I'm the head of the Magi organisations in control of the passage to the surface. Lord Eam shouldn't be any ordinary Warlock, right? The passage in the Thunderbird Holy Land…" Leylin shot Eam a glance.

To expand the passage between the surface and underground, he needed to find something like a spokesperson here. It seemed that Eam and the Lyers Family suited this role well.

Not only was he very powerful, there was nothing he didn't know about the passage. More importantly, they had long since gained control of the exit.

"We obviously know about it. In actuality, it's a secret that my ancestor found out. Ever since then, our Lyers family has settled here, and we've been trying to make contact with the surface that's been sealed from us…" Though Eam was speaking in very vague terms, Leylin could imagine the carnage involved. Things like vying for this territory, trying to damage the seal and attracting adventurers to become blood sacrifices here were perhaps merely the tip of the iceberg.

There was still much that was unknown regarding what they had attempted on the sly. What was most crucial was the fact that they had persevered for so long.

"Since you were able to come over, the seal at the surface world should be about to crumble right?" Eam looked at Leylin, frowning slightly, "Based on my estimations, the seal should still hold for a period of time…"

"Actually, I secretly came over through a crack in the seal. On the surface, the seal can still hold for about a century…"

"A century? That seems rather long. Did anything go wrong with the sacrifices? Or was the construction of coordinates on both ends not done well, resulting in a huge energy consumption?" Eam's expression went dark while Leylin maintained his silence, not admitting that he'd tampered with it.

"But for Sir Leylin to pass through the cracks in the seal must mean that your attainments in spell formations must be at the level of grandmasters…" Eam's gaze towards Leylin had now turned more gentle. People who were grandmasters in fields of magic were highly regarded.

"This tiny ability really isn't worth mentioning. Well then… Since we own one end of the passage each and both have great influence in our respective regions…" Leylin mentioned what he had been preparing to say for a long time.

"Forming an alliance is beneficial to both of us!" Eam spoke straightforwardly, the smile on his arrogant face widening. He stepped forward while beaming and extended his right arm towards Leylin. "Welcome, partner!"

"It's my honour," Leylin grinned and extended his right arm as well.

The two hands grasped each other, and golden light flowed out. Fine golden letters were like ants as they crawled everywhere.

An alliance between Magi was even more important and solemn than an agreement. Most of the time, a very serious ceremony would be conducted, and even a third party would be invited to be the witness.

Leylin and Eam were both rank 5 Warlocks. While they didn't need to go to the trouble and do all that, a basic oath was required. However, what they were agreeing to now was a general purpose oath, and the details would be determined through discussions afterwards by their subordinates.

After the oath was done with, the two of them had gained a tacit understanding. They laughed, feeling like their relationship had gotten better.

Though this sort of oath could be violated, they each had control of their sides of the passage, which signified a great amount of benefits. Leylin would not want to destroy this unless he'd gone mad.

As for how things would progress after this… That probably wouldn't have much to do with him anymore.

By that time, he would either have broken through his bloodline shackles and soared into the sky leaving Eam in the dust, or be sealed to death by the curse mark. He, whose bloodline force had been completely severed from him, would die.

Whatever happened, there would not be any issues here.

"Sir Eam…" Leylin laughed as he spoke.

"Just call me Eam, Leylin, you're qualified to do so!" Eam chuckled, though his facial muscles were obviously a little stiff. However, that just made this moment all the more rare.

"Alright, Eam! I'm quite interested in the spell you used just now and that instantaneous effect…" Leylin smiled and asked.

The instantaneous lightning spell was very frightening, and Eam had been able to produce five streaks. Leylin was very interested in this technique.

"Oh, this?" Eam nodded, "We of the Lyers family inherited the bloodline of the Thorned Thunderbird, which means we're proficient in lightning-type spells. Booming Thunderclap is one of the Arcane Arts we created from experiments where Warlocks at Morning Star and above combine different innate spells. While the might isn't as powerful as a real Morning Star Arcane Art, it's quite effective."

Leylin couldn't help but nod. Experiments of combining bloodline spells and creating a correct Arcane Art might sound easy, but was definitely far from it.

A Morning Star Arcane Art was the fusion of rank 1 to 4 innate spells. The opponent's Booming Lightning Thunder only used one or two bloodline spells and, matched with specific energy undulations and other spell models, formed a unique Arcane Art.

"Though I don't mind telling you the principle behind the Arcane Art, it's a pity that you aren't of the bloodline of the Thorned Thunderbird. You can't use it…" Arcane Arts like these usually needed specific bloodline spells, and some needed the usage of bloodline force. That was why Eam wasn't afraid of revealing this information.

"Actually, I don't want to know about that. Rather, I'm interested in the technique where you amplified a streak of lightning five times…" Leylin said as he hastily shook his head. He could not express interest in bloodline spells, or else he'd be thought to be coveting Eam's bloodline. No matter how good their relationship might be, this would entail burying a thorn in Eam's heart.

What Leylin truly wanted to know was how he had amplified the lightning force.

With the A.I. Chip, he could clearly see that Eam had only produced one Booming Thunderclap, and it was only slightly more powerful than that of the Morning Star Warlock. However, it had transformed after passing through some carved inscription that was like a spell formation, and been amplified till it was almost terrifying.

"Oh, that!" Eam patted his Magus robes in pride, a ring of dazzling light floating around his body and creating a gigantic ring of lightning. Unbelievably large lightning runes that exceeded Leylin's expectations undulated out with a complicated radiance.

"This is one of the works that I'm most proud of!" Eam watched the complicated lightning runes and seemed to be intoxicated.

"These are runes that I obtained from a primordial lightning tree. It seemed to have been created naturally, yet held some mysterious strength. I couldn't copy the strength, so all I could do was embroider it onto my robes…"

The silver lightning ring spell formation returned and shrank to become a dazzling silver rune, emitting a splendid luster on Eam's Magus robes.

"With this Primordial Magic Robe, other lightning type spells are amplified a little as well, but it can increase the might of Booming Thunderclap fivefold!" Eam lovingly touched the robes he was wearing, completely engrossed.

"If being in bliss is an ability, then Eam, you must be the darling of the heavens!" Leylin smiled slightly and spoke flatteringly, a trace of blue flashing in his eyes.

-x-X-x-

A magic robe made from an antique oddity was extremely fear-inducing, even though the effect of amplifying the spell fivefold was only unique to a certain type of spell.

Leylin, of course, wouldn't be so silly as to ask Eam for the Primordial Magic Robe so that he could study it for a while. He would definitely be met with rejection. He didn't even entertain such a thought, instead using a better method to study the spell formation.

'A.I. Chip, how's it going?' Leylin asked secretly.

[Beep! Magic robe spell formation has been recorded. Determined to be an antique lightning rune, 89.7% of it usable!]

The A.I. Chip sent its feedback faithfully. At the same time, a humongous collection of lightning ring spell formation images was projected in front of Leylin's eyes. Over a hundred thousand lightning runes were clustered together, densely packed and appearing incomparably exquisite.

'Such a spell formation… It shouldn't be limited to just Booming Thunderclap or even lightning spells; it should be able to be used at other levels as well…' Leylin's pupils shone brightly. 'Eam can't do it himself. Even though he has the spell formation he can't perform a systematic break-down or derivations. After all, the brain of a Magus cannot be compared to a technologically-advanced brain. The operational load involved is sufficient to make him crumble in despair, but all of this isn't a problem for me!'

At this thought, a smear of excitement spread across his face.

"Great! Let's return, Leylin. In order to celebrate our alliance, I intend to hold a majestic banquet at my residence!"

Eam's pupils contained a joyous look, and he seemed to think that Leylin was also in high-spirits because of their strong alliance.

"I would be honored!" Leylin smiled modestly, as his body floated up and he returned alongside Eam to the Lyers family's headquarters, which was a castle in the Metal Mountains.

...

Night fell. Although the subterranean world didn't have a concept of night and day, Leylin continued to artificially use spells or sun stones to adjust his biological clock to work and rest.

The lights went out in order, or rather became more dim. The castle, where the grand feast was just held, started to quiet down as though it had entered a deep sleep.

Leylin, who was cordially received by the Lyers family, was now in a luxurious bedroom. The bedroom was decorated exquisitely. All the objects in it showed indications of being maintained by spells, and they appeared to be very precious.

After sending away a beautiful maid, Leylin laid on the sofa by himself, his pupils twinkling with the radiance of the A.I. Chip.

[Beep! Antique amplification lightning rune has been recorded. Beginning analysis…] With the A.I. Chip's horrifyingly fast operational capacity, the lightning spell formation that Leylin had scanned previously was now being broken down continuously at lightning speed. The many lightning runes distorted themselves and looked just like tadpoles. They were firmly recorded by the A.I. Chip, which analyzed their specific functions.

Although this spell formation contained over a hundred thousand runes, and could be said to be extremely complicated and refined, it was an easy task for Leylin, who had the A.I. Chip. It was only a matter of time.

Leylin, who was temporarily idle, recalled the scene during the banquet, and a smile couldn't help but creep onto the corners of his lips.

The Lyers family was certainly not very well-adjusted to this unfamiliar Magus. Previously, he'd fought so hard with them, but after a trip out he had turned into a distinguished guest.

This was especially so for the Warlock that Leylin had held captive previously. Seeing Leylin was practically like meeting a ghost, and he almost made a run for it, which was a great blunder.

Regardless, Magi and Warlocks were all humans who turned superior and skillful with age. After Eam announced the news of his alliance with Leylin and the other affiliated powers, they had lost themselves initially but managed to adjust themselves to it soon after.

Even the Morning Star Warlocks who had committed a mistake earlier specially came over to apologize later on, and regained the graceful bearing unique to Morning Star Warlocks. This left Leylin secretly impressed.

Furthermore, although Eam had kept the information about Leylin hailing from the surface confidential, he didn't cover up Leylin's identity as a rank 5 Warlock. After all, not any random Magus was able to form an alliance with the Lyers family.

When Leylin's status as a rank 5 Warlock was declared, the other elders from the Lyers family immediately cleared their doubts about Eam's decision, who was their Grand Elder.

This was a rank 5 Warlock! Such a big shot was not a common sight in the Arthur Empire. For example, the only rank 5 in their entire family was their Grand Elder, Eam.

On average, the strength of a Warlock far exceeded that of a Magus of the same rank. There was simply no doubt about that. Therefore, Leylin alone was qualified enough to be an ally of the Lyers family. Even without elder Eam's subtle revelations to back him up, Leylin the Warlock possessed a great amount of influence.

"However… They're really being overly enthusiastic…" Leylin stroked his chin. Recalling the unmasked anticipation in the maids' eyes, he sighed rather helplessly.

He was now busy analyzing the ancient lightning runes. Where would he find the time and effort to do such things?

Besides, although bloodline Warlocks could bear successors with bloodline energy when coupling with Magi or even some humans, for some unknown reason Warlocks with differing bloodlines could never produce descendants of mixed-blood.

According to Leylin's conjectures, this was because the bloodline energies of both parties would fight too much, and thus mixed-blood descendants were not possible.

But if their bloodlines were from identical sources, such as if they were both Kemoyin Warlocks, for example, this wouldn't pose a problem, and the purity and saturation of their descendants' bloodline was guaranteed.

Leylin thought about something else. 'If Eam doesn't mind, I could probably intermarry an average Magus in the future, and obtain the bloodline of the Thorned Thunderbird. After all, this is the ancient bloodline of a rank 6 creature. Even if they want our Giant Kemoyin Serpent bloodline in exchange, it would be worth it…'

Although the Ouroboros Clan was made up of descendants of Kemoyin Warlocks and other bloodlines, there were no Warlocks within a few external organizations.

Leylin had only transformed Krupp's bloodline in the south coast. There were others who had gathered by his side over these few days, people who were initially descendants of the Farlier Family. Most of them were average humans, but it was still feasible if they were to intermarry with this bloodline.

'But why does it not seem very possible? Even if it's a concubine's child, it's not very possible that they would allow them to marry out of their family. Many Warlocks are incomparably prejudiced when it comes to the orthodox practice of protecting their family's bloodline and preventing it from leaking out…' Leylin felt rather glad after tossing this thought out of this head in an instant.

Fortunately, he hadn't been discovered when he was extracting bloodlines today. Even that Morning Star Warlock was in a disoriented state and had been confused by Leylin's Dreamscape forcefield, leading him to believe that he was weak because of his grave injuries. If Eam knew about this, perhaps there would be more trouble.

'No! He might already know about this, just that he's restraining his emotions. If that's the case, I'll have to adopt some measures in preparation…' Leylin stroked his chin, his pupils showing that he was in deep thought.

Even though they had already established an alliance, he didn't trust Eam very much, and it was probably the same for Eam as well.

In actuality, if not for the fact that both of them happened to be situated at both ends of the passage, each controlling the other's weak point, this alliance wouldn't have been established so easily.

Both parties would put up the necessary preventive measures.

...

"Leylin, are you serious about not staying here longer?"

"No, it's really fine!"

Leylin and Eam were now standing where the Thunderbird Holy Land used to be, outside the palace where the passage was.

After briefly inspecting the area, Leylin had gained some knowledge about this region. He wanted to return above ground on the pretext of the energy needed to sustain passage crack being on the verge of exhaustion, and was bidding Eam goodbye.

"The trade between the underground and the surface poses tremendous profits. I believe that both of us will have endless benefits from this exchange. With cooperation from both sides, we can maintain this mode of transport for our benefits!"

Before he departed, Leylin looked at Eam with a sincere expression in his eyes. "Of course, perhaps you might want to come with me and see what it's like above ground. Although the Magus World above ground has declined for a long time, it has gradually begun to regain its glory from the ancient times, and there are beings who are not in the least inferior to King Arthur…"

King Arthur was the legendary founder of the Arthur Empire, and was also a Magus of at least rank 6, an equivalent of a Monarch in the central continent.

There was movement in Eam's pupils. Upon hearing that there were Magi above ground who were not inferior to King Arthur, it seemed as though a different kind of radiance flashed in his shining eyes, a complex emotion that was an amalgamation of restraining fear, anticipation and traces of dread all mixed together.

Eam thought for a while, before shaking his head and refused. "Alright, but that will require a bit of time. There's a lot of family affairs that I need to tend to due to my long sleep, as well as some preparations before we begin trade. It's all complicated…

"Actually, I hope that the people above ground can cooperate with us to break through the seal together. In this manner, things will be a lot more effortless on my end, and we'll be able to bring forward the time of the passage opening, bringing us much more profits…"

"Of course! I will start on the tasks in this aspect once I return."

Leylin nodded and gave a slight salute. His actions were incomparably smooth, and his etiquette was so perfect that there was nothing to be picked on, just like an ancient nobleman who had put in hard work and numerous revisions. "Farewell then, Mister Eam!" As he spoke, a ray of light that formed an arched door had already formed behind Leylin.

"I look forward to meeting you again!" Eam nodded, his face expressionless as he resumed his previously proud and aloof image.

Leylin smiled and stepped into the arched door. The radiance vanished with a puff as the place reverted to its dark and tranquil state. Eam stood there, stupefied, his pupils occasionally flashing with all kinds of light. His thoughts were a mystery…