*Swish!* A brilliant blood-red arc of light cut through the air, wiping out the massive flames. The outside world looked extremely distorted from within it, and it gave one a momentary feeling of isolation. It was clear that this streak was moving at great speeds.
The ray of light vanished in an instant and all became still, but it did not seem too abrupt. A black silhouette revealed itself, and beneath it was an enormous iron hammer with many iron chains firmly sealing a large number of runes.
'This place is at least a thousand miles away from Port Elias. It should be far enough.' This was naturally Leylin. After snatching Bayclark, he had been afraid of arousing too much suspicion so he'd used a lot of concealment and bewitching spells, quickly fleeing from the scene.
Although he did not know how much effect the spells he cast had, it was always better than nothing. Leylin finally let out a sigh of relief after making sure that he'd fled this far without being followed.
'However, for the sake of safety I should settle this as quickly as possible.' Leylin's figure descended unhurriedly, arriving at a lonely island.
This island was very small, and was comparable to a single drop of water in the middle of the vast ocean. It also looked desolate, with no vegetation or fresh water sources that could be found.
However, Leylin nodded his head in satisfaction, especially after sweeping the area with his soul force, 'This should be a good place, especially as it keeps moving.'
While laughing softly, Leylin lightly stamped his right foot, causing the ground to hum. A tremor was sent through his foot, which grew larger and ended up forming a small earthquake and a tsunami.
*Rumble* Broken rocks rolled over the coral reef, and a small fissure appeared. By the time the earthquake had calmed a little, even stronger vibrations began to sound out.
An oppressive hiss from an animal, like the cry of a dragon or the roar of a tiger, sounded out from the dark sea.
*Crash* All of a sudden, Leylin's isolated island began to move. The black rock rose higher and higher from the sea, with kelp and black shells attached to it. In the end, the small island became a huge and irregular piece of circular land.
*Crash* On one side of the island, numerous rocks fell to the bottom of the sea, revealing a large, pitch-black hole. Promptly, a snake-like head stretched out from this hole.
The howl from earlier had evidently come from this monster's throat. Its body was immense and its eyelids were still covered in algae and green moss.
[Beep! High energy undulations have been discovered, scan completed!] Accompanying the A.I. Chip's voice, a complete image of this monster had already been projected in front of Leylin.
This monster was an impressively huge tortoise whose length reached tens of thousands of meters. Leylin's 'island' was actually part of its shell, and since the monster had been floating motionlessly for far too long, it had started to show vestiges of life.
"It's a miracle of life, or should it be called the beauty of this world? It really is quite fascinating!" Leylin murmured a few words of praise. This type of giant tortoise could sleep for thousands of years at a time. If this island had been discovered by ignorant people, even a city could have developed on the tortoise's back.
"Good day, your Excellency. Sorry to disturb your rest. I was wondering if you could give me a ride? I'll be sure to make it up to you later."
The A.I. Chip had determined the giant tortoise to be rank 4, but it still had to be subservient to him when faced with his Half Moon truesoul. Thus, it began to slowly move through the depths of the sea.
'Very good,' Leylin nodded his head, and his body automatically descended into the bottom floor of the coral island. It was as if the floor had melted under him. 'A moving target is clearly less likely to be discovered. Now, I have to dispose of this fellow, lest it becomes a hidden danger.'
Soon after, a small yellow light radiated out to clear out an expansive underground space. The walls fused to become a marble-like material, the structure evidently stable.
Leylin sat cross-legged on the dry floor, with a very solemn expression on his face, "A.I. Chip, transfer the content on the Purgatory World's Sacrificers."
[Beep! Establishing task, commencing transfer...] Along with the A.I. Chip's feedback, a large amount of data was very quickly gathered and saved in Leylin's memory bank.
The path of offerings had a very long history in the Purgatory World and had become the main strength system after many years of decisions.
In the past, Leylin had believed that this kind of sacrifice was a technique from the World of Gods. However, there seemed to be evidence that the technique had appeared before the end of the Great War.
Although the origin of the path of offering could not be verified, it had gone through such a long period of development that it was very rich in core content.
The so-called Sacrificers offered sacrifices to a higher existence, which required that the receiver have some comprehension of laws. This way, amplification power could be sent down through their subconscious communication channels.
The higher existence would amplify the Sacrificer's strength. Even if it was for a limited time, it was still an extraordinary thing. With the correct sacrifice it was possible to almost borrow the power indefinitely. Assuming the Sacrificer could endure it, of course.
The Sacrificer's rank could be improved through continuous sacrifices, and once they reached rank 4 they could perform a ceremony to permanently increase their attributes.
After the ceremony, the Sacrificer would be branded by their chosen dignitary and their sacrifices wouldn't be accepted by others.
After many amplifications, the Sacrificer could receive power that surpassed their race. Take the Governor of Elias for example, his physical prowess exceeded even Melinda who was a mixed blood rank 4 Alabaster Devilsnake.
Furthermore, not only could rank 4 Sacrificers borrow power first and sacrifice later, they could also try to summon a clone of their dignitary.
From what Leylin understood, the sacrifice represented the limits of what you could get from the dignitary. So high level sacrifices meant receiving greater attention and a quicker response from the dignitary.
This was why he had to run far away after capturing Bayclark. Since he was a rank 5 Sacrificer, he was sure to capture the attention of the Trial's Eye.
A Rank 5 Sacrificer could even borrow a tiny bit of the power of laws from their Exemplary, such as the golden lightning and trial power.
Relying on that, Bayclark was not weak for a rank 5. Leylin's own strength just surpassed his greatly.
'According to the A.I. Chips speculations, a rank 6 Sacrificer can borrow the dignitary's power over laws. It would be possible to borrow up to 90% of this power if the Sacrificer and the dignitary are highly compatible. Their strength would surpass the power of the Blazing Flame Monarch…' Leylin's expression became rather imposing.
'Of course, the path of sacrifices has its disadvantages as well. After all, the power of laws can only be borrowed, and not retained. No matter how harmonious the relationship is, Sacrificers cannot rely on this to reach Rank 7. Those dignitaries won't allow others to grasp their laws. Therefore, rank 6 is the peak for a Sacrificer. However, there may be exceptions…'
As if he had thought of something, the corners of Leylin's mouth curved into an excited smile, and his entire being seemed to be eager to try something.
[Beep! Transmission of Sacrificial Array has been completed!] A complex spell formation formed in Leylin's mind.
This was not just the Sacrificial Array he had recorded, but one that he had modified and optimised with the A.I. Chip. Not only could it accept more sacrificial power, but it could also minimise any loss.
If Leylin was willing to sell this modified version, it would make him extremely rich. Of course, he wouldn't do such a thing.
'The decisions made in the first sacrifice are incredibly important and the offering is a crucial point. The better the offering of the first sacrifice, the more attention and benefits will be given by the dignitary.'
Leylin's spatial pouch flashed, and many resources appeared. He began to draw the modified Sacrificial Array whose power surpassed the Purgatory World's most powerful secret techniques. It was all thanks to the A.I. Chip and the enormous amount of labour and resources that Leylin had poured into it.
"Also…" After arranging the Sacrificial Array, Leylin looked at the surrounding walls and swept his palms across them. Layer upon layer of blood-red lightning runes automatically emerged.
"Summoning across worlds!" "Powerful binding!" "Annihilation ray!" "Breath isolation!" "Location interference!" A great number of advanced ancient runes steadily emerged on the wall, which were the same standard as those used in astral laboratories.
Although Leylin was prepared to practice the path of offerings, it was still necessary to be cautious. By the time he was finished, he looked a little tired even though his soul force was still frighteningly vast.
*Crash* The black runic chain was broken, exposing the Elder Eye Bayclark within.
Bayclark's soul force was currently sealed, to the point where he couldn't even express himself. His three vertical pupils were filled with terror.
"We meet again, Elder Bayclark!" Leylin faced Bayclark and greeted it.
Bayclark trembled in fear when he saw Leylin, especially after he noticed the Sacrificial Array.
[Beep! Sacrificial Array has been completed, simulated success rate is 100%!]
At this moment, the A.I. Chip transmitted some information…
-x-X-x-
[Sacrificial Array completed! Please choose the target of the sacrifice!]
Several strange symbols emerged on the A.I. Chip's screen. These symbols seemed to transcend the three-dimensional screen, possessing a strangely ancient feeling, with an aura of the power of laws.
Leylin looked silently at these runes. The A.I. Chip illustrated 7 runes in total, one for each continent's dignitaries. Among the 7, there were a few that Leylin was naturally familiar with. A vertical eye rune, a twisting snake rune and a rune of a giant bird spreading its wings.
"Trial's Eye. Snake Dowager. And the Nefarious Filthbird." Leylin murmured the names of the three dignitaries represented by the runes. These three had left the deepest impression on Leylin, albeit not the most pleasant ones.
"Sacrifice target selection: Nefarious Filthbird!" Leylin held out his hand and lightly touched the rune of the giant bird spreading its wings. The rune was, almost instantly, copied into the previously empty core of the Sacrificial Array.
A foul and chaotic power seemed to have penetrated the barrier through deep and unknown channels, reaching this place. Threads of grey mist lingered above the array, and it was possible to hear faint crowing sounds coming from within.
Seeing this scene, even though he was firmly sealed, Bayclark's body reacted slightly in anticipation of a fight. After all, being sacrificed to the Order of the Eye's greatest enemy was unacceptable to this pious believer.
Unfortunately, no one would listen to the barking of a loser, be it in Leylin's previous life or in the Magus World.
"Almighty Ruler of Chaos, the Flapwing, the free will that soars in countless dimensions! I, Leylin Farlier, call you reverently…"
Leylin chanted in the complex and obscure ritualistic language, which created faint undulations of soul force.
From the movements of the soul force, the ritual language acted like a mysterious key which opened a giant door somewhere. The entire Sacrificial Array rumbled, and the giant bird rune seemingly came to life and let out an elated chirp.
A large amount of grey light condensed and the space seemed to faintly warp. When it finally reached the limit, it loudly exploded.
*Crash* A grey flame suddenly emerged from the core of the Sacrificial Array.
"Almighty dignitary, Your Excellency the Nefarious Filthbird. Please accept my offering." Leylin's eyes held a trace of indifference, and the Beholder on the ground was pulled into the core of the array by an invisible string.
*Rumble!* The little flames suddenly grew to engulf the entire Beholder.
"Ah... I curse you... Curse you..."
In the grey flame, the huge Beholder began to melt like a wax sculpture. Even his truesoul was corroded. Leylin could still hear Bayclark's dying curses ringing in his ears.
Just this sort of thing could not change his expression even slightly. Leylin's eyes, however, were fully absorbed in the sacrificial process, and he occasionally still made adjustments.
It was very clear that for a beginner Sacrificer, it was nearly impossible to get a strong rank 5 being as an offering, let alone a Beholder who was a rank 5 Sacrificer of the Trial's Eye.
The original Sacrificial Array that Leylin had bought in Port Elias wasn't anything special. Although it was enough to get someone to rank 4, it was inadequate for the current situation.
When the Beholder Elder was completely melted, a horrifying energy overflowed from the wax, while an unbearable lamenting cry sounded from the Sacrificial Array.
'Really…' Leylin speechlessly shook his head, and proceeded to further strengthen the array with his soul force.
Since this was a high-level sacrifice, the laws of the world had finally been attracted when the Beholder was almost completely melted.
The high-spirited chirps of a bird followed. Then, the runes set in place by Leylin began to flash explosively. Some of them even started to fall apart. In the end, the Sacrificial Array produced a piercing light.
The grey flame became scarlet red in a flash, and the blood-curling screeches of the Beholder Elder increased in pitch.
*Bang* The blood-red flames completely swallowed up Bayclark, a rank 5 Sacrificer and Elder Eye. A huge amount of wax concentrated into a ball, constantly twisting and changing shape while it broiled within the scarlet red flames. Finally, it became a clever-looking little grey bird.
"We meet again, almighty Flapwing! Your Excellency, the Nefarious Filthbird!" This was obviously the Nefarious Filthbird's clone, and Leylin bowed in greeting without delay.
The little grey bird's eyes were rather glassy, but soon it was occupied by an intelligent personality. It looked at Leylin, its eyes expressing an obvious smile.
"We meet again. Snake Dowager's blood descendant, Kemoyin Serpent Emperor." A greatly changed and mechanical voice rang directly in the bottom of Leylin's heart.
The little grey bird fluttered its wings, while seemingly very interested, "I am very satisfied with your offering, but your heart still seems to harbour some distrust." The bird obviously pointed towards the strong binding and isolation runes on the walls.
Leylin just smiled slightly, "Please forgive your humble subject's precautions. However, I believe that for a mighty dignitary like yourself, these are just like fine rain and cannot harm you at all."
"Sly little fellow, you act as though this isn't the first time you summon me. Nonetheless, I sense leftover marks of the Trial's Eye's contracts." The little grey bird said this with certainty, after sniffing Leylin's body.
Leylin's eyes flashed with an expression of sudden understanding. This must have been back when he was a rank 1 Magus and he used the Nefarious Filthbird Feather Solution to clear the Trial's Eye's contract.
But, after improving his knowledge, Leylin was sure that the Nefarious Filthbird Feather Solution was merely some kind of medicine's name. The main material was definitely not the feather of this entity, otherwise no one would let Leylin use it.
Certainly, the Trial's Eye's contracts used by rank 1 and rank 2 Magi were not high-level due to limits of these Magi's strengths. Thus, they could still be erased by Leylin's accidental use of the Nefarious Filthbird Feather Solution.
Although he had only borrowed a millionth of the bird's power, the bird still keenly perceived it.
"Yes. At the time, I was able to break the bonds of the Trial's Eyes. I need to thank the dignitary for your power," Leylin respectfully expressed his thanks.
"You don't need to thank me, young man. Breaking the bonds of the Trial's Eye is my mission and duty." As a result of this introduction, the Nefarious Filthbird regarded Leylin with much gentler eyes, "You did the right thing. If you had not immediately offered this Sacrificer, the Trial's Eye would have found you within 10 hourglasses' time."
At this point, the Nefarious Filthbird sent another message, "Now, it can no longer find you. Furthermore, everything that pertains to you will be concealed by chaos and filth, thanks to my power of chaos here.
After hearing this, Leylin's expression relaxed considerably.
As expected, to fight against a dignitary, Leylin could only borrow the power of another one. The Nefarious Filthbird's concealment made his earlier risks worth the trouble.
"So, Magus, tell me your request." The Nefarious Filthbird spread its wings, looking incomparably solemn.
"Almighty Ruler of Chaos, please, may I ask if it is possible for you to remove the Allsnake Curse from my body?" Leylin restrained the excitement in his heart, and asked in a dignified voice.
"The Allsnake Curse comes from the Snake Dowager. We are of the same rank, so I am unable to completely remove it." The little grey bird shook its head but, just when Leylin became disappointed, it continued, "However, the Power of Chaos is enough to postpone the flare-up from the curse. Do you want to suppress it?"
"Please, go ahead." Leylin gnashed his teeth. It went without saying that entering the Purgatory World was already a risk, so he would not reject this offer.
"This seal will consume half of the sacrifice's power." The little grey bird looked deeply into Leylin's eyes, and shortly after the terrifying grey power of chaos began to pour into Leylin's body.
The immense power of chaos spread through his skin and flesh, then extending to his sea of consciousness and soul.
[Beep! Invading energy detected, eliminate?] A red warning box popped up from the A.I. Chip.
'No,' Leylin gnashed his teeth, 'But continue monitoring.'
[Removing resistance! Initiating monitoring mode!] The A.I. Chip dutifully sent back.
A great quantity of chaotic power spread through Leylin's body. In the end, it converged in his forehead, forming a silver seal around it.
The Allsnake Curse seemingly squirmed, but very soon it was suppressed by the vast amount of chaotic power.
[Beep! The Allsnake Curse's seal has been reinforced! Estimated time to outbreak: 20 years!] Leylin's status box was very quickly refreshed with new information.
[The host's Sacrificer Rank has risen! Current Sacrificer target: the Nefarious Filthbird! Rank: 4]
[Detecting that the host's bloodline power has been released, the sacrifice strength has increased as well. Host's stats have fluctuated greatly, re-collecting data!]
Soon, the A.I. Chip showed the new stats.
[Leylin Farlier, Rank 5 Magus, Bloodline: Kemoyin Serpent Emperor (Complete Form). Strength: 51 (76), Agility: 46 (62), Vitality: 135 (176.9), Spiritual Force: 1575.8 (2003.5), Magic Power: 1575 (Magic Power is in synchronisation with Spiritual Force), Soul Force: 158, Status: Rank 4 Sacrificer strength is increasing in force! Estimated time to the Allsnake Curse outbreak: 20 years!]
"Freeing part of my bloodline force, and the growth in rank as a Sacrificer, has actually restored so much of my strength."
After seeing his stats changing greatly, an ecstatic expression immediately appeared on Leylin's face.
-x-X-x-
The Allsnake Curse caused all of Leylin's stats to fall and sentenced him to die in 2 years. These problems felt like a rope constantly tightening around Leylin's neck, stifling him. But now, with the Nefarious Filthbird's help, Leylin finally felt less pressed for time, allowing him to relax a little.
"My Laws of Confusion Seal can delay the Allsnake Curse from flaring-up for up to 18 years. After 20 years, even if you contact a rank 8 being again you won't be able to strengthen the seal and postpone it any further. Unless, you are able to find a Rank 9 Everlasting One…"
The Nefarious Filthbird's voice was heard again. However, the small grey bird in front of Leylin seemed to have become slightly illusory, as if it had consumed too much energy.
"Thank you, almighty dignitary." Even if the curse wasn't completely resolved, Leylin still thanked the Filthbird sincerely. After all, if it wasn't for it, he wouldn't have 20 years to solve his problems.
"There is still half of the power of sacrifice left. Tell me your other requests." The bird spoke within Leylin's consciousness again.
Leylin pondered for a while and spoke of his plans, "Almighty Flapwing, I hope to obtain something to conceal myself. After all, I am bound to go deeper into the Hail Continent if I want to completely remove the Allsnake Curse."
He had already discovered long ago that, in the Purgatory World where the path of offering was prevalent, there was still a fatal weakness in any disguise he could come up with.
The weakness was the existence of a dignitary's clone when one sacrificed. As long as the Sacrificers reached rank 4, they would be able to summon the clone of a dignitary. And, if those clones were intelligent, they would definitely be able to expose Leylin's disguise.
During the previous skirmish, both the Elias Governor and Bayclark were only able to summon a phantom of their dignitary and not a complete clone. Hence, Leylin was able to conceal himself. However, he knew it was impossible to avoid them forever, especially in the Hail Continent. Therefore, suitable methods for concealment were necessary, and they had to be able to deceive the dignitary's clones.
Furthermore, these existences may have some special detection methods. In particular, the Snake Dowager, who was the source of Kemoyin bloodline descendants, would have such methods. There might be some kind of special reaction towards her own descendants.
Although Leylin had already prepared all sorts of countermeasures, it still did not stop him from adding another insurance.
"You are very intelligent," the Nefarious Filthbird nodded in approval, "Once you appear within a range of 5 kilometers from one of our clones, you will definitely be unable to escape our detection."
"I bestow upon you the Feather of Chaos. The one who holds this item receives the protection of chaotic power. As long as you don't come into contact with the dignitary's real body, you won't be discovered. "
The small bird's silhouette became even more faint. In the end, it transformed into a grey illusory feather that floated in front of Leylin.
"Snake Dowager's descendant, Kemoyin Serpent Emperor. Travel the Hail Continent as you wish, and tear the Dowager's godly status apart."
The grey Nefarious Filthbird's clone vanished. Only a residue of its conscient reverberated in the secret chamber. In a flash, the Sacrificial Array exploded with a bang and turned into flying dust.
"I gained more than what I expected." Leylin let out a long breath, feeling rather glad.
Doing business with the Nefarious Filthbird was like dancing on a tightrope. Leylin had no choice but to consider all worst case scenarios.
Luckily, due to the arch-enemy relationship between the Nefarious Filthbird and the Trial's Eye, it was very willing to see the Trial's Eye's ally, the Snake Dowager, be defeated. This was the foundation of the deal between both sides
Leylin's own power and his meticulous arrangements were the most crucial part of his plan. Even had the Filthbird's clone suddenly turned hostile, he had the confidence to break the Sacrificial Array and escape from it instantly.
With a common enemy, and since Leylin himself could escape, the Nefarious Filthbird was willing to see him as a pseudo-ally.
Furthermore, Leylin still wasn't able to completely trust the Nefarious Filthbird, since there was only a mutual relationship of wanting to use each other between them. Of course, the Nefarious Filthbird still had the greater advantage and their interests did not clash. Therefore, it was possible to maintain their agreement.
For instance, for Leylin who was an insincere sacrificer, being promoted directly to rank 4 level by the Nefarious Filthbird was a very good testimony that they could work together.
There would never be a lucky person who became an Everlasting One in the world. Only through careful, meticulous considerations and anticipating worst case scenarios would one be able to guarantee success.
'Rank 4 Sacrificers can already begin to amplify their body's attributes through attracting the dignitary's energy into their own body, and solidifying it permanently.'
Leylin muttered to himself, "This kind of promotion often comes with a price. The whole body might be branded by the Nefarious Filthbird's energy which creates a tissue and cellular transformation that cannot be opposed. Ultimately, one might even be controlled by them. A.I. Chip, conduct an all-round inspection of my body's energy structure."
[Beep! Mission established, beginning to scan!] The mechanical sound of the A.I. Chip echoed. Soon after, fine blue light continuously swept across every part of Leylin's body.
[Discovered unknown energy structure! Determined to be the Nefarious Filthbird's energy branding! Eliminate?] Without spending much time, the A.I. Chip responded.
Leylin had long prepared for this outcome. Hence, he did not look surprised at all, and he commanded very calmly instead, "Show me the image."
Soon after, Leylin was looking at the image of a cell that was magnified several times on the A.I. Chip's screen. At the center of the cell was something that looked like a sea urchin, with peculiar energy waves of confusion.
[Beep! This energy is the crucial element to suppress the Allsnake Curse. If eliminated, it would trigger irreversible changes. Probability of Allsnake Curse showing advance in effect: 99.99%. Eliminate?]
The A.I. Chip's sound caused Leylin's expression to become slightly gloomy, "It seems this would be the kill switch that the Nefarious Filthbird imposed on me. Although currently it's only used to threaten others and maintain its own position, I still need its strength. I need chaotic power to suppress the Allsnake Curse.
Numerous rays of light continuously flashed across Leylin's pupils. However, he commanded, "Focus on monitoring. For the time being, maintain the original shape."
[Beep! Mission established, activating real time monitoring procedure within the body!] The A.I. Chip loyally carried out Leylin's orders.
"No matter what, I still profited this time. Not only was the Allsnake Curse's effect delayed, I even obtained something to rely on when I infiltrate the Hail Continent." Leylin murmured, stroking the walls with his palm.
A layer of black liquid flame emerged from his palm, spreading rapidly as if it had life of its own, consuming the entire place almost instantly.
Soon, the binding runes and Sacrificial Array vanished without a trace under the black demonic flames, and even its aura was burnt away. After the place was thoroughly cleaned up, a yellowish radiance emerged from Leylin's body and blent into the surrounding walls.
A circular light floated above the coral island with a whoosh and, shortly after Leylin's figure quickly flew out, "Thanks a lot, big fellow."
Leylin looked at the large turtle and waved his hand while smiling. Afterwards, a slight green ray of light flew out of his fingers in a flash and merged into the turtle's forehead.
Although that fine green beam was like dust when compared to the turtle's huge head, Leylin still heard a hint of pleasant surprise from the creature's whistles, especially after the ray merged. Its turbid eyes seemed to become somewhat quicker, and there was a hint of kindness in its expression while looking at Leylin.
"This is a gift from a wise man of ancient times. Although it only has a faint external aura, it still has exceptional effect in raising creatures' wisdom. I know you want more but, unfortunately, I still have a need for these. I cannot give you anymore." Leylin smiled. His body transformed into a long black streak that vanished into the distant horizon, leaving the turtle with a regretful expression.
The turtle howled in Leylin's direction as if it was seeing Leylin off. The loud howl sounded continuously, even causing huge waves to form on the surface of the sea, which continued for half an hour.
Ultimately, the turtle's body gradually sank to the bottom of the ocean, leaving behind a huge white whirlpool.
…..
The strong wind whistled into Leylin's ears hauntingly.
Leylin's expression turned solemn. Although he had already thought about how to sneak into the Hail Continent, even when the plan had yet to be implemented, he had some slight concerns.
"Partial AI #1, report your position!" Leylin pressed his temples and a faint blue radiance was revealed from his pupils.
[Beep! Current coordinates: Taking the main body as the origin, southeast; 786.67 nautical miles!]
An unusual message was directly sent by the A.I. Chip.
[The people around the area are all agitated. Possibility of a conflict between military forces. It is advised that the main body arrive immediately, otherwise the puppet's identity will be exposed.]
At this moment, a warning sign was transmitted from the A. I. Chip again, making Leylin's speed rapidly increase.
Although using the A.I. Chip to control the shadow puppet allowed it to imitate all of Leylin's actions and even his aura to the point of being impossible to check its authenticity, it would still be exposed once it made a move.
By that time, even if Leylin managed to rush there and kill them all, he would probably still be unable to stop the news from being transmitted. Consequently, he would have to abandon the identity he had created, Nick.
The most important point, however, was that the plans he had previously set up would have to undergo modifications. The risks would be greater and this was something Leylin could not accept.
"What exactly happened that caused things to escalate to this degree?" Leylin carefully observed the report sent by Partial AI #1, and everything that happened after Port Elias' military campaign appeared immediately before his eyes.
-x-X-x-
The organisation that Belinda belonged to was obviously subordinate to the Trial's Eye. They had been preparing to act against the Nefarious Filthbird, using Port Elias as a transport point to offload a large amount of prohibited goods.
However, with Leylin cutting in, this plan was dealt a fatal blow before it could even begin.
With Leylin's disclosure of the information about their operation, the Port Elias setup had been completely exposed. All the people in charge of the different organisations were nabbed in hiding, and only Belinda had been able to escape with Leylin's protection.
For the Trial's Eye's organisation, this was an intolerable humiliation! The loss of goods and intel was something they could not bear.
Hence, Belinda's superior Bayclark had brought a huge army and hastened over, planning to destroy Port Elias in one go.
With Bayclark's strength as a rank 5, the governor who was only at rank 4 could not even resist.
Originally, everything should have gone smoothly. In the Hail Continent, the governor didn't have any support.
However, it was a huge pity that a plan was just a plan and there could always be other variables. The moment Leylin laid his eyes on Bayclark, only tragedy awaited the Beholder.
With Leylin's deliberate plans, the governor and a few higher-ups of the Nefarious Filthbird's organisation had escaped. Even the rank 5 Sacrificer, Bayclark, had turned into an offering for the Nefarious Filthbird, temporarily solving his personal issues while Bayclark's truesoul was destroyed.
Even in the Purgatory World, a rank 5 was very rare, especially one with the status of a Sacrificer. In his organisation, Bayclark had high standing and managed this region. The loss of someone like him was a huge disaster for Belinda and the others!
Though Belinda had done all she could to save the situation, and had pushed the troops in order to reach a rest point, a paradoxical situation had been unavoidable despite her best efforts, landing her in her current dilemma.
No! This couldn't be called a paradox, but a conspiracy!
When Belinda had stepped out as a leader, she immediately turned into an offering or scapegoat in the eyes of the Morning Stars.
"Why? Why did things turn out like this?" Belinda half-leant against the corner of a wall, arms hugging her shoulders as if that would bring her even the slightest bit of warmth. With her body, she wouldn't feel any cold in temperatures above absolute zero.
It had been a subconscious act. She was currently in a cold, dark, humid room. There were multiple reinforcement runes on the walls, and the door was a cold steel grill. A few marine folk surveyed her icily from not far away.
Morning Star forcefields undulated from their bodies without any restrictions, and they were clearly the marine tribe that had gone to battle together with Belinda before. Now, however, their target had changed and they even kept Belinda on house arrest.
The accusation was laughable, 'colluding with the enemy'! Belinda did feel like laughing, sending troops to Port Elias was a joint decision by the higher-ups, but they'd changed the narrative and said she'd bewitched Bayclark to do it.
Belinda's calm actions after being caught by the leader of the allied forces was also taken as proof of trying to win the support of the enemy. What other reason could she have for doing this than to collude with the enemy?
Besides, compared to the Beholder race and marine tribe that had from the very beginning believed in Trial's Eye, someone like her who was a descendant of the Alabaster Devilsnake just did not fit in. Was she not a readily available scapegoat?
It had to be said that whenever it came to suspicion of there being spies, outsiders like her were the first to be attacked.
"Belinda, are you feeling better?" A voice was heard from her side, causing her to raise her head slightly.
Through the dusky light, she saw the figure of her kinsman. After seeing who it was, a wry smile appeared at the corner of her lips, "Nick, you've been captured too?"
The shadow clone controlled by Partial AI #1 was watching Belinda 'worriedly'.
When the marine tribe had suddenly turned hostile on her, Belinda practically turned into a wooden puppet, not resisting arrest. With only the strength of a shadow clone, the partial AI also didn't dare make a move lest it was caught.
Thankfully, perhaps because they were afraid that the two would resist violent methods and cause needless deaths, they were only under house arrest. Their truesouls weren't sealed or anything like that, and they were even placed together.
[Target is now in a poor mood and in a state of bewilderment. If appropriately consoled, it is possible to improve her impression of the host.]
An analysis presented itself to the shadow clone. However, its orders were merely to prevent 'Nick' being exposed as Leylin. Without Leylin's explicit orders, emotional issues like this were the most difficult for Partial AIs to deal with. Hence, Nick merely stood around in a daze, as if similarly shocked.
"I'm– I'm sorry for dragging you into this, but don't worry, Nick. Our organisation believes in the
master of order and is the most fair and just. It will definitely prove our innocence, and you'll soon regain your freedom…" Seeing Nick in this state, a hint of disappointment showed in her eyes, and she could not help but hug herself tighter, her whispers sounding from the gaps between her arms.
"This girl hasn't given up yet?" A translucent figure penetrated the wall full of seals and shackles, entering the room.
Seeing the state she was in, a strange smile appeared on his lips, "Why is it that I always have to be the one to shatter the purity and fantasies of children?"
The translucent being melded into Nick, and the A.I. Chip took over Partial AI #1. From the outside, it looked like Nick's eyes went blank for a while before returning to normal.
Nobody noticed this change, and having recalled the shadow clone and Partial AI, 'Nick' was Leylin once more.
After getting the warning from the Partial AI, Leylin had hastened to reach this place in the shortest time possible. The guards and spell formations outside were no issue for him. When it came to spell formations or runes, the research by Magi in the Magus World was leaps and bounds ahead of the marine tribes.
Leylin had regained most of his strength, and he could do all sorts of things with ease. Most importantly, he was now a rank 4 Sacrificer of the Nefarious Filthbird and had the Wings of Chaos. This made it even easier for him to break through the seals set up in the name of the Trial's Eye.
These two were not just arch enemies, but their strengths restrained each other. Of course, when compared to Leylin, the marine tribes outside were useless.
"Belinda!" Leylin spoke slowly in a low voice, "At this point, are you still harbouring fantasies towards the marine tribes outside?"
"Fantasies? No! Even if they're driven by benefits and greed, the master of order will come and save me…" She spoke resolutely. With her devoutness to the Trial's Eye, he felt like her only being a rank 3 Sacrificer was a waste.
"Yes! Anyone can see how foul the marine tribe is. It's not just the dignitary, Trial's Eye. Even the higher ups know that…" Leylin spoke nonchalantly, almost with a hint of sarcasm. Without waiting for her to speak, he continued, "But… so what?"
"With the situation right now, where Bayclark has disappeared and the operation has failed, someone will have to take responsibility. Bayclark is an Elder Eye of the Beholders and has a great amount of power; he clearly fought with all his might. There's a chance that he might survive, and nobody would dare offend a rank 5…"
"What's left is to find people to take responsibility, such as you. The marine tribe is very harmonious, and if they really had to incriminate someone, it'd be you."
At this point, Leylin saw that her shoulders were trembling even more violently. He added on, "However, the losses incurred by this is something your higher-ups definitely don't want to see. Hence, this matter cannot really be pursued. A scapegoat is needed, or rather a sacrifice has to be found.
"At this point, is there someone more suitable than you? As an outsider with no background, you don't have a group to back you up either like the marine tribe…" Leylin started to sound like he was ridiculing her.
"No! Even if they're all like that, the mighty master of trials, the dignitary of fairness and justness, will definitely not abandon me…" Belinda raised her head, her scarlet pupils filled with insanity and hopelessness.
"I won't say more about that." Leylin shook his head, "But I hope you are aware that if the Trial's Eye is in favour of absolute justice and fairness, it would long since have fallen and disappeared into the dust of history. To survive up to this point and spread its ways in so many worlds, it must know compromise. In order to uphold fairness and justness to a certain extent, the master of trials is already quite successful…"
"No, I don't believe it! I don't!" The despair in her eyes immediately dissipated and she crumpled to the ground like a ball, boneless.
"Hm? She can't take this blow? Or has she thought of something?"
Leylin shook his head inwardly, 'Is her mind too weak, or is there some particular injury to it?'
-x-X-x-
*Rattle!* At this moment, the steel fenced door was abruptly pulled open, and a circle of higher ups from the marine tribe walked in.
The leader's face had a few blue scales on it. He looked towards Belinda coldly, and read from a sheepskin scroll, "Belinda, the headquarters has decided that you've turned your back on the Master of Order, profaning the glory of the dignitary. We judge you to have committed the crime of colluding with the enemy."
"No, no! This is impossible!" Belinda completely crumbled down.
"Nothing is impossible!" The marine tribe leader tossed the document in front of her, the seal from the headquarters at the bottom right corner. It emitted dazzling lights, and wasn't something that could be faked.
After seeing the scarlet words of judgement on it, Belinda had almost completely given up.
"Even… even if the headquarters is infected by chaos and filth, I still have the dignitary. I'm still a Sacrificer…" Belinda trembled, a sacrificial spell formation appearing at the tip of her finger. Compared to Leylin's, there was only a rune of an eye at the heart of the formation.
*Pak!* The eye cracked and the spell formation dissipated, not giving a reply. This situation signified that the dignitary, the Trial's Eye, did not accept Belinda's offering. In other words, she had been abandoned.
Of course, the common people did not know that on the path of offerings, 'equal exchange' meant that even if the dignitary broke off the connection with the Sacrificer or did not accept their offering, what had been given would not be returned. This was a trade of equal exchange, and since the Sacrificer had offered something up it wouldn't be returned.
It was similar with the governor of Elias. If he gave up his belief in the Nefarious Filthbird, or it did not accept his offerings, then he would at most not be able to obtain a boost from it. However, the results from previous ceremonies were permanent and remained.
This was unlike the priests of gods. Once gods abandoned them, they would lose all their status and magic power. That way had its own advantages and disadvantages.
"No! NO, why? Why did things turn out this way?" If the decision from the headquarters had pushed Belinda to the verge of collapse, this was a fatal blow.
"Why… not just the headquarters, but even the mighty dignitary did not believe that I've been slandered and treated unfairly…"
"Cheer up, Belinda! The mighty dignitary definitely knows the truth, but you need to make a sacrifice for its sake." Leylin quietly stood beside Belinda, gently patting back of her hand that was on her shoulder.
In all organisations, the members would need to make sacrifices for the big picture. It was a normal thing, and if they didn't do so they would be criticised by the public. In these days, it seemed like if a superior wanted a subordinate dead, the subordinate had no choice but to die.
Everything was for benefits. The benefits of a collective group took priority over personal gain. When met with this situation, complaining wasn't even possible. One would have to take the initiative and rush to sacrifice oneself, else it would bring trouble to their family and friends.
Of course, if this person did not care for their lives, nor their friends and family, and had nothing to be concerned about, things would become difficult to handle.
However, these people were usually unstable, posing as a threat to their communities, and needed to be eliminated.
For the current situation, the Trial's Eye had made this decision despite knowing that Belinda had been maligned. Belinda would thus be sacrificed.
Perhaps after pacifying the marine tribe, the headquarters would send people over to tidy up, removing any malignant tumours and people who could not be controlled. After decades or a whole century, there would be political change and Belinda might even be given the title of a 'saint', revered by the later generations and turning into a leader. However, if the person was dead, what was the point?
However, Leylin could not deny the point of the organisation's actions.
In a physically weak world, joining forces to form organisations was the way of the powerful. When one member's benefits were sacrificed, they could do nothing but exhibit enthusiasm for it.
However, this was different! When a person's personal strength was immense, then they would have the right to go against the organisation. In a world where extraordinary strength existed, individuals who were powerful became important.
Especially in the Purgatory World, where a few dignitaries governed all the continents, murder and plunder was the best proof of this concept.
Hence, besides obediently dying, there was no other better option for her. Of course, she still had other options, like how Leylin was preparing to work some magic.
"There's no slandering or conspiracy. This is the truth! Belinda, you colluded with the organisation of the Nefarious Filthbird and entrapped Lord Bayclark. We are going to punish you." Seeing Leylin stand out, the marine tribeman's pupils shone with dissatisfaction.
This was a natural feeling when a subordinate dared go against a superior's authority.
"Alright! I'm not of your organisation and obviously can't commit the crime of colluding with the enemy. I wonder when I can leave?" Leylin spread his arms and laughed.
"You must be a believer of the Nefarious Filthbird, and must be communicating with the enemy organisation with Belinda. You must be punished as well!"
The leader did not even blink as it spoke. Leylin almost wanted to give the leader applause, as he had guessed a truth that not even the Trial's Eye knew about.
It had to be said that the leader had gotten it completely right by luck.
"What's with all the bullshit, just kill them!"
A Morning Star beside it already had shining undulations of a beast spirit summoner.
For them, leaving Belinda and Leylin around was just going to create more issues. They'd had to contact headquarters before, and now that they had the permission to there was nothing left to consider.
"In that case…" Leylin shrugged his shoulders. Suddenly, his aura changed, turning from a little rabbit to a large, fierce tiger.
*Hssss—* A tremendous Alabaster Devilsnake phantom suddenly squeezed out behind him, producing ear-splitting roars.
*Rumble!* *Bang!* Terrifying explosions reduced the room to fragments.
"Kill them! Don't hold back!" The leader yelled out, and a large shark-shaped beast spirit appeared, roaming in the air.
Light flashed, energy undulations from sacrifices and beast spirits constantly appearing. It caused even this islet to begin shaking slightly.
"Wahaha… you're all liars. Liars!" At this moment, Belinda, who had been under Leylin's protection, suddenly seemed to go mad, and her face flushed unusually.
"I was treated that way and even by the Trial's Eye! What value does my faith and persistence have?" Along with her complaints and questions, two rows of bloody tears flowed from her eyes.
"In that case, let filth destroy the world!" An evil aura emanated from her body, and large amounts of dreamforce filled the surroundings, even turning black.
'Could this be… the rumoured black conversion?' Leylin wanted to say something, but he stopped himself.
"It's not the time to say such stupid things. Let's go!" The dreamforce that was summoned by Belinda abruptly converged in Leylin's hand. It seemed to be weaved subtly, transforming into an even more powerful force.
A large black net brought with it an oppressive force that gave rise to despair as it enveloped the islet. Deafening roars were heard everywhere, but whether it was the rank 4 sea shark beast spirit that belonged to the marine tribe leader, or the attacks from others, nobody could take on this large black net.
Hazy dreamforce even caused the guards to lose their sight and crumble to the ground.
"Sinphobic Flames!" With Leylin's soul strength, countless black flames appeared on the large black net. Differing from his phoenix fire, the black flames held a large amount of hatred within.
The sea species that had been burnt by the flames grew despondent, their bodies losing life undulations while their carcasses were preserved.
"Those flames target the soul! Careful!" The leader roared, and the Aquatic Shark beast spirit he summoned feared the black flames immensely.
After all, when it came to this kind of spirit body, the Sinphobic Flames were like their natural enemy.
In the span of one attack, all of the marine folk below rank 4 near the islet had been annihilated by the black flames. The net then constantly shrunk, trapping the Morning Stars in a tiny space.
"This strength… this strength…" The leader now looked deathly pale. If he had known Belinda had this ability and Nick was so vicious, he would have employed more gentle tactics.
However, it was too late at this point. The leader still tried till the end though.
"Wait… Belinda, we're willing to send out a joint declaration to free you of all injustice, and we'll even repent to the Master of Order. Please don't…"
"Haha… haha… do you think I'm the same as before?" Belinda laughed madly, body filling with some red patterns. The dark dreamforce was being extracted unceasingly.
'Vampiric Berserker transformation? Or is it an attack that consumes the bloodline?' Leylin shook his head, not hesitating as he made use of her dreamforce, increasing the black flames in the large net.
At this moment, a strange undulation was transmitted as a rank 4 Sacrificer tried to summon a clone of the Trial's Eye.
"Dream on!" Leylin sneered, and with a flash of his Feather of Chaos, chaotic power spread out, disrupting their coordinates and causing the Sacrificer that was summoning the clone of the Trial's Eye to cough up fresh blood.
-x-X-x-
Their final struggles taken care of, the truesouls of the many kinsmen of the marine tribes were corroded by the black flames and they all died with a loud rumble.
"You did well, annihilating so many Sacrificers of the Trial's Eye. Here's a reward!" The chaotic force of the Nefarious Filthbird was projected into Leylin's mind with a royal declaration, great amount of chaos power descending through subconscious communication.
[Beep! Discovered large amounts of the law of chaos. Absorb?]
"No! Store it all." With Leylin's command, the large amount of chaotic force turned into grey crystals that he secretly stored. The black flames gradually died out, revealing an islet that now had no other traces of life.
"Keke… so they all died just like that? I thought they'd be more fun…" Belinda laughed maniacally.
Leylin appeared behind in her in that instant, light shining in his hands.
"What are you doing?" Belinda shrieked. Immediately after, her eyes rolled back as she fell unconscious.
"Mm… The bloodline consumption was so huge that even her mind is exhausted." Leylin shook his head. She had obviously gone half crazy. If not for that, no matter how discreet he was in gathering the chaotic power she would have noticed it.
...
"Ugh…" With a light hum, Belinda slowly opened her eyes.
What entered her sights was a scene where abundant stars filled the skies, as well as the flickering firelight from a bonfire that lit up the area.
Slight crackling sounds sounded from the fire, and a few grilled fish that were skewered on tree branches were stuck in the ground beside the fire. An aroma of greasy food spread out from the fish unendingly.
"You're awake! Would you like some?" Leylin chuckled as he handed a branch with a few grilled fish on it to Belinda.
Belinda took it without thought, her eyes still filled with bewilderment. Immediately after, the betrayal of the marine tribe as well as the decision from headquarters, even the memories of the failed offering to the dignitary of trials emerged.
"Ah…" The snake girl exclaimed, the grilled fish falling to the ground.
"Was all of that real?" Belinda raised her arms, watching the little sacrificial array branded into her skin. Now, however, the rune for the Trial's Eye had completely dimmed; there were even cracks on it. She went quiet.
The frailness of her body was proof of her crazed slaughter before, and it caused a wry smile about her lips, "I'd thought my faith was strong… I didn't expect it to be so fragile."
"I think you did very well already!" Leylin smiled, passing over another portion of grilled meat, "Whatever it is, you're alive. That's the greatest blessing!"
"..." Belinda sunk into silence for a long while before she took the meat from Leylin.
"Thank you." The sound was as soft as the buzzing of a fly. If not for his exceptional senses, he wouldn't have been able to hear it.
"Why did you save me? Did you hope I'd be your mate?" Belinda asked after a silent meal. The question left Leylin stunned.
'Mate? Ah, she's of another race and even a snake at that. Her ideas of this sort of thing are a little different.' Leylin nodded without a change in expression even as such a thought coursed through his mind. "That's the smallest part of it. It's more because we are of the same species. Mixed-blood Alabaster Devilsnakes are dwindling in number, and I can't just watch you die…"
"My life is very complicated, and I even betrayed the Trial's Eye. I'd bring you many troubles if we work together!" Belinda seemed to have recovered from her previous shock, once more the strong, able woman she was.
The branch in her hands snapped as she huffed, her whole body relaxing as she seemed to have come to a decision.
"Since I've already offended the Master of Order, we can only hide in the depths of the Hail Continent…" Belinda calmly analysed, "Though the Matriarch and the Trial's Eye are allies, they wouldn't send out a bounty just for this. With our bloodline, going to other continents would only lead to discrimination. My own situation is a good example!"
"It's not an issue for me. I've been travelling around the archipelago; I've been thinking about going to the Hail Continent…" Leylin was in favour of her decision.
In reality, that was his main goal. If not, why would he spend so much effort on saving her?
"We will enter through the borders of the nearest continent and then traverse through the Serpent Plains to reach the Holy City. I have connections there, so they might be able to help us…" Belinda stood up, "In return for your help, I will find you a mate with a bloodline purity that does not lose to mine. Of course, if you're certain about your choice, that's not a problem!"
"Alright," Leylin touched his chin, appearing 'embarrassed'. He was actually rendered speechless at her using such a simple method to thank him.
"Beast spirit summon— Godric!" A layer of blue patterns emerged from Leylin as he stood by the coast. Their rest was done, and the figure of the quick-witted Godric appeared. It was just that the injuries from the last battle left it dull.
Healing beast spirits was a very advanced technique. Only a few high-ranked beast spirit masters in the Purgatory World could do such a thing, so even if Leylin had methods to heal his beast spirit he couldn't show them now,
The large Godric mooed as it turned into a streak of light. It spread its two large fleshy wings on the surface of the waters, its expansive back as flat as land.
"Let's go!" Leylin said while jumping on.
Belinda soon followed as well. Her scarlet pupils scanned the Godric and she shook her head, eyes full of pity, "Godrics mature to rank 4 beasts, but they're very difficult to control. Those merchants capture young creatures and then seal or even extract their souls. That's jus…"
Following that, she glanced towards Leylin, "I see that the beast spirits you have on you is meagre… don't you have a healthier beast spirit? Injuries to the soul will only grow more serious in such a state, and even healers won't be of much help…"
"I'm merely a rank 3 beast spirit master," Leylin touched his chin, slightly embarrassed. He had bought this Godric at the port, using it as a temporary substitute. He had no plans of healing it, and at most was prepared to make use of this trash once more. "I'm more proficient in innate spells and the manipulation of dreamforce."
"Mm!" Belinda nodded, evidently recalling Leylin's astounding skill at using dreamforce.
"Since we're companions for now, we should be honest with each other. Let me reintroduce myself. My name is Belinda, and I'm a rank 4 beast spirit master and rank 3 Sacrificer. Of course, my identity as a Sacrificer is of no use…"
The Godric flew along the shipping route quickly, leaving long trails of white lines. Belinda gathered her disheveled hair and smiled at him.
"A rank 4 beast spirit master? I don't think I've seen you use your beast spirit though?" In the crazed state before, she had even ignited her bloodline source and yet did not summon her own rank 4 beast spirit, which left Leylin surprised.
"My beast spirit is a little special. If possible, I won't use it in my whole life…"
She forced out a smile, her facial muscles stiff. She clearly recalled some bad memories, and Leylin tactfully did not question her further.
"My name is Nick, and I'm a rank 3 beast spirit master! I'm more proficient in physical battles as well as using the Alabaster Devilsnake's bloodline force." Leylin replied with a very sincere expression on his face.
"Which port are we going ashore at?"
"Though the Hail Continent doesn't get information from the outside that often, some ports might have long since announced for our arrest. We can probably only choose coasts with no beings around. Thankfully, we're using a beast spirit, so there won't be issues with anchoring and maintenance."
Belinda naturally knew more about the Hail Continent than Leylin. After all, no matter how hard Leylin tried to gather information, it was all theoretical. Nobody would know the place better than its inhabitants.
The Gordric's low moos continued to sound as the two gazed into the distant coastline, looking to be deep in thought.
...
Two days later, beside a wasteland.
The black rocks outside emitted a pungent smell. Leylin was bored to death, leaning on a rock while quietly in wait.
A large port showed itself in his line of sight, pure white marble carvings, lighthouses, and all sorts of noticeable buildings exuding an incomparable beauty.
The whole port was bustling with life, and large numbers of beings of other races could occasionally be seen walking the streets.
After sneaking into the Hail Continent, Leylin and Belinda had stealthily hidden themselves near a port so they could gather important information, maps, and supplies. Belinda had volunteered to make some inquiries for more information.
Knowing she was more experienced and familiar with this than he was, Leylin sensibly did not oppose her.
"Catch!" A linen pouch flew over as a loud shout sounded.
*Thud!* Leylin extended his hands and caught it, "What is it?"
"A map, and some other necessities." Belinda currently wore a thick cloak, covering all her characteristics as a demisnake. She was obviously very cautious.
"How is it? What kind of information did you get?" Leylin asked impatiently.
"So, are you finally scared?" Belinda, on the other hand, teased him.
-x-X-x-
"Of course I'm afraid!" Leylin seemed to be very confident, "After all we destroyed a port belonging to the Master of Chaos and even massacred a branch belonging to the Master of Order! Oh, mighty dignitary, the Matriarch! I hope they don't join together and put a bounty on us, else we really will become famous!"
Leylin's performance was a huge success, and the look of suffering on his face caused Belinda to mock him.
"Hmph! A port? Port Elias was only an illegal private port that their governor established himself. He didn't get any permission from the Hail Continent, and even amongst the high ranking Sacrificers of the Nefarious Filthbird, very few acknowledge it… In a colony like this, it's merely an attempt on the Filthbird's end. It would be great if it went well, but even if it were to fail, there aren't any major losses…
"Besides, this is the the territory of the the Eye of Order's ally, the Matriarch! The Master of Chaos and the Eye of Order are arch enemies, which is why they'll at most pursue us on the sly but won't do anything too drastic… the only thing I'm worried about is the organisations belonging to the Eye of Order."
Belinda was clearly worried, "I've already looked through the announcements at the port. Unfortunately, I seem to be wanted by the Eye of Order, and news will spread very quickly…"
Immediately after, she looked towards Leylin, with eyes full of reservation, "While you did murder most of them, no news about you has spread. If you want to leave now, there's still time!"
Leylin was quiet. He obviously knew that this wasn't just because he'd silenced them, but because of the cover of chaos power. That was why the his traces had been reduced to the bare minimum.
However, watching Belinda, who was slightly nervous, Leylin merely smiled, "Did you think I would leave you for my own safety?"
"Why not? News of me being wanted by Trial's Eye will spread through the Hail Continent!" Belinda laughed coldly, "When the time comes, you and I will be pursued till the ends of the earth because we're working together!"
"Oh. That seems rather interesting." Leylin stroked his chin apathetically.
"You—" Belinda was so furious that her whole body began to shake, and she appeared rather agitated.
Leylin astutely noticed the change in her mood. Laughing inside, he still looked serious, "Where do we go next? Can the Holy City at the heart of the Hail Continent still take us in?"
"You're… you're really a fool," Belinda's eyes filled with tenderness. She stared hard at Leylin for a while, but she still ended up explaining, "Don't worry, the Holy City is a sacred land for all descendants of the Matriarch. With my connections, there shouldn't be any problem…"
"That's good!" Leylin patted his chest, looking slightly afraid.
"You…" Belinda was so frustrated that she laughed instead, finding herself unable to speak while Leylin spread out the parchment paper in his hands.
"This map is… so vague! Are we now at the port of the Andersus Union?" This map that was yellowed at the ages was very crude, with only the names of a few places on it. Furthermore, this was only the map of a region.
Leylin understood the reason for this. In this age, a complete map that had very high precision of the continent was so expensive that perhaps most Magi would need to spend their whole fortune on it. Belinda being able to get a hold of this was mostly thanks to them being at a trading port.
While commanding the A.I. Chip to record the information, Leylin recalled the the resources he had gathered, and the general appearance of the Hail Continent slowly emerged in his mind.
The Hail Continent was one of the seven continents of the Purgatory World, ruled by the Snake Dowager. Its lands were extensive with many undeveloped regions. Barbaric beings who ate raw meat and fowl, and even prehistoric giant beasts were common there.
The main inhabitants of the continent were all descendants of the Snake Dowager. All sorts of pure-blooded giant snakes, mixed-bloods with characteristics of giant snakes, and other species of snakes who were very distant relatives took up about two-thirds of its populations.
The remaining races, such as Beholders, Purgatory Pygmies, energy lifeforms, elementals and even humans were spread out across the continent. Of course, compared to descendants of the Snake Dowager, they were insignificant. They had tribes and clans, and existed between the cracks of two large cities or organisations.
Something worthy of note was that the ruling structure of the Hail Continent was a system of city states governed by clans. War among various city states were common, whether between two different races or amongst the same race.
The so-called Holy City was established with the joint decision of the descendants of the Snake Dowager. In theory, this was the core government of the Hail Continent, and was said to be the place the Snake Dowager favoured.
The Hail Continent would have to listen to the commands from the Holy City, though in actuality it depended on the individual masters of the various city states.
"From here all the way to the Holy City, it'll take us more than year even if we hurry there with all our strength…" Belinda unhurriedly pointed at a marking of a port on the map. At this moment, all sorts of emotions flitted past her face until she eventually grew resolved, "But I found a very special route here. As long as we pass a certain region, we can make use of a teleportation spell formation and reach the Serpent Plains, which will save us a lot of time…"
"Is that so? Then let's do as you say!" Time was of essence for Leylin, and the more convenient things were, the better for him. As for whether she would find him suspicious, he had nothing to fear with his current strength.
He, who had regained much of his strength and had a boost as a rank 4 Sacrificer, felt like he could contend against even a rank 6 Breaking Dawn Monarch.
Breaking Dawn Monarchs, rank 6 Magi, had all grasped part of the power of laws. They were exceptionally more powerful than most other rank 6 beings. Of course, being able to contend against them did not mean he could defeat them. Leylin believed he was only comparable to a weak rank 6 at this point.
However, in the Purgatory World, it was said that there were a total of seven beings at rank 7 or above, and a small number of rank 6s. WIth Leylin's current strength, if not for his fear for the Snake Dowager he would be free to do as he liked in the Hail Continent. Belinda currently had strength at the Morning Star realm at best. What could she do?
'Seeing her expression right now, she seems to be prepared to cut off her past. Could she be planning to settle some disputes within her family?' Leylin wondered while stroking his chin.
'Adult Alabaster Devilsnakes can only reach rank 5, which won't be a huge issue. I really want to gather a pure bloodline. After all, high-energy beings which can use dreamforce and connect with Dreamscape are very rare…' Though the Alabaster Devilsnake was a descendant of the Snake Dowager and was well taken care of, it was because they were right under her nose that she would definitely not allow the appearance of a Serpent Emperor amongst them.
Even a rank 6 Alabaster Devilsnake Emperor would not have a community of its own. For Leylin as he was now, it was like a dish served on a platter.
'I just need to be careful while operating in the Hail Continent. If the Snake Dowager discovers me, perhaps the Feather of Chaos could be helpful…' Leylin's palm subconsciously touched the area at his chest, where a grey Nefarious Filthbird feather emanated a hazy glow.
The Nefarious Filthbird's law of chaos had the effects of concealment and misleading others. With the boost from the power of chaos, Leylin now had more confidence in hiding his tracks. If not, Leylin wouldn't be confident in sneaking into this nest of the Snake Dowager where there were so many Sacrificers.
Compared to his previous infiltration attempt which had been very difficult, he was now much more assured in his success. In spite of the slight restrictions, the deal with the Nefarious Filthbird was worth it.
'But I still need to defend against the bird. If it were to betray me at the last moment, I might just turn into a gift for the Snake Dowager to improve their relationship instead…' Leylin's eyes shone with blue light, the Nefarious Filthbird energy in his body under strict surveillance.
Leylin did not have to worry about the same with the Trial's Eye, the Nefarious Filthbird was arch-enemies with it and their rivalry extended across numerous worlds. That was perhaps something that extended to the current day from primordial times, an irreconcilable hate. But things were different with the Snake Dowager. She was merely an ally of the Trial's Eye, which might not even mean that much to her. If it could pay a price and and entice the Snake Dowager to join its side, he was sure that the Filthbird would be very willing to do so.
Though this was a tiny possibility, Leylin had to prepare for it. Such was the sorrow of the weak; Leylin was currently walking on thin ice, a small misstep causing irreparable harm.
"Oh, right, I bought this too!" With Belinda's voice sounded, the roars of two large beings travelled to Leylin's ear.
At this moment, Leylin saw her pulling the reins, and the two beings' silhouettes gradually emerged from the shadows. What appeared in front of him were two large earth-yellow lizard-like creatures. There were even man-made seats fixed atop their backs.
"Since we are going to traverse through rather special environments, this sort of mount is essential."
-x-X-x-
Under the radiant light of a purple moon, two dirt-yellow figures were galloping across the fields at a fast speed.
These two yellow figures were naturally the two yellowish-brown earth lizards. The two figures sitting on their backs had their entire bodies tightly wrapped up, only exposing their scarlet pupils which flashed coldly from time to time.
"This earth lizard is a rather good way of getting around!" Leylin looked at the lower limbs of his mount. Above the lizard's barbed feet was a translucent membrane, rich in energy particles which converged around its surface. With this, it could very easily traverse jungles, swamps and other complex terrain.
"When we cross the Dreamscape Forest, we will arrive at the Whiteriver Valley. That's where my family is…" Belinda's voice did not carry a single trace of joy.
"Dreamscape Forest? Why the name..." Leylin had some misgivings, and soon looked all around him. Their surroundings were all grasslands, and there was nothing like a forest nearby.
"Dreamscape Forest, Dreamscape! You mean…" Leylin's pupils constricted slightly. His thoughts drifted to the Alabaster Devilsnake's bloodline skill and he thought of a possibility.
[Beep! Spatial undulations detected ahead, determined to be Dreamscape access points.] The A.I. Chip's mechanical voice transmitted over as well.
"That's right. We're also known as the Alabaster Devils, my clan stays in the cracks leading to Dreamscape, and we often lure travellers in to prey on them." Belinda's voice was cold.
Leylin's thoughts, however, drifted to the A.I. Chip's introduction of Alabaster Devilsnakes, 'They enjoy tormenting their prey within Dreamscape before eating their meal!'
Traces of dark red fog appeared, making the surrounding area foggy and hazy. By the time they had passed through this fog, a strange forest immediately appeared in front of Leylin. The black branches and tree leaves criss-crossed, and there were many giant trees without a single leaf showing their bare form, like a grotesque withered arm waving about without stopping.
[Beep! Host has entered a Dreamscape zone!] the A.I. Chip transmitted in reminder.
'Dreamscape zone… This isn't actually dreamscape, nor is it the Hail Continent. It's instead an intersection of the two places, resulting in a myriad of strange events… And now I've entered using my real body!' There was a strange expression in Leylin's eyes. Rather than his most recent experiences in Dreamscape, he was thrown back to his first time researching this world, with his real body fully entering it.
Even though he was physically protected and dreamforce should have less of an effect on his truesoul now, if something were to happen then it would be very difficult to escape.
"The bloodline of the Alabaster Devilsnake will temporarily protect us from the attacking Nightmare Creatures. Follow me closely!" Belinda shouted as she advanced forwards in front of Leylin.
'The Alabaster Devilsnake bloodline!' Leylin allowed a layer of white scales to cover the surface of his body. As expected, after entering the Dreamscape zone, these scales became even more brilliant. They seemed to come to life, breathing in the dark red dreamforce. It was like a traveller had returned home, and there was not the slightest sense of unfamiliarity.
The earlier oppressive feeling that Leylin had felt from the Dreamscape Forest also disappeared without a trace.
'Alabaster Devilsnakes are darlings of Dreamscape. As expected, they are direct descendants who inherited a part of the Snake Dowager's ability with Dreamscape.' There was an admiring look in Leylin's eyes, 'A.I. Chip! Scan the entire area and establish task: Probe the Alabaster Devilsnake's ability to travel to and from Dreamscape!'
[Beep: Task established, beginning data collection!] The A.I. Chip faithfully implemented Leylin's command.
A pure-blooded Alabaster Devilsnake could travel through Dreamscape to the outside world; this was how one had originally attacked Leylin. A mixed-blood like Belinda only inherited a weakened form of this ability, and could merely communicate with Dreamscape and draw upon the strength of dreamforce.
Although Leylin did not belong to the Alabaster Devilsnake bloodline, he possessed the blood of a rank 5 Alabaster Devilsnake, and was even in such a good environment to use it. Using the A.I. Chip to find a way for a real body to travel through Dreamscape would be very beneficial for him.
'If I grasp this technique, I'll be able to enter and leave Dreamscape anytime I want, anywhere I want. Perhaps…' There seemed to be fires blazing in Leylin's eyes.
Freely entering and leaving Dreamscape would require a huge amount of dreamforce as well as the resources of an enormous world. But the important thing was that he could use the infinite space of Dreamscape to travel to different worlds!
After all, limits such as distance and time were simply a joke in Dreamscape.
'It seems like the transport array was a lie. Belinda wants to use Dreamscape as a springboard to travel directly to the Serpent Plains…' Leylin concluded in secret.
Of course, using Dreamscape as transit wasn't easy either. Forget the monsters and dangers that lurked there, just the extremely indefinite nature of Dreamscape gave Magi a great headache. It was likely that Belinda's ancestors spend countless painstaking hours to explore the region and find this passageway.
The Dreamscape's drop point was just a hair's breadth away, but it could completely defeat their purpose. If the hadn't possessed the Alabaster Devilsnake's Dreamscape ability, they wouldn't have dared to experiment so boldly.
Leylin sped up his earth lizard and moved to Belinda's side, "Belinda! Is it possible to enter this Dreamscape Forest at any time?"
"Of course not! Although the Dreamscape Forest has always been in the wilderness plains, only those with the Alabaster Devilsnake bloodline and the special opening ceremony can make the Forest appear. Otherwise they could travel the entire wilderness and only see the grasslands and sand…" Belinda hadn't even turned to give him this immediate answer, "This is how…"
A spiritual force message immediately entered Leylin's mind, full of information about incantations and signalling runes as well as special refining techniques. Seeing this, Leylin immediately realised how much Belinda's clan had sacrificed to open up this safe pathway. And now he'd gone so far as to give this huge secret to him?
Leylin remained silent for a while, then asked, "Aren't you afraid that I will sell this secret to other Alabaster Devilsnake clans?"
There were definitely other Alabaster Devilsnake clans in the Hail Continent. There were ten noble Alabaster Devilsnake clans, each varying in size, and these clans also had their respective branches and extended relatives.
Because of their open-minded nature, there was a large number of mixed-bloods and illegitimate children. This led to a huge number of bloodlines draining out, and it was only because of this that Leylin dared to impersonate a mixed-blood Alabaster Devilsnake.
According to what Belinda said, her family was only a branch of a pure blooded clan, and only her father, the head of the family, was a pure-blooded Alabaster Devilsnake. The rest were all mixed bloods or young children.
"Do as you wish! I've already given the information to you anyway, so it belongs to you." Belinda seemed very casual, and her attitude shocked Leylin deeply.
'It looks as if Belinda's preparation to break off her relations with her clan will not be some easy matter. However, does this really concern me?' A sly smile slowly curved at the edge of Leylin's mouth.
'This could be my chance. Not just for a bloodline, but also for research materials on Dreamscape, and even beast spirits and sacrifices among other things…'
"Haha..." At this moment, a yellow figure flashed in front of Leylin's eyes.
Although the earth lizard's speed in the forest was already very fast, the yellow figure clearly effortlessly surpassed them, flashing past them like a phantom.
"What is that thing?" Leylin asked in shock.
After a startlingly brief glimpse, he had seen the full view of the yellow figure from earlier. Wearing an outfit of ridiculously wide-fitting trousers, with clothes that were brightly coloured strips of cloth, this being had a face painted with oil colours. It looked like a clown from a play, but it managed to run at lightning quick in spite of cumbersome wooden shoes.
No! He couldn't call it running. This clown was actually kind of floating, leaving many afterimages in its wake.
"Nightmare Creatures! They are a special patrol of the Dreamscape Forest.They don't normally appear," Belinda looked very imposing, "But if they drag us into the real Dreamscape even if we're mixed-blood Alabaster Devilsnakes it will be hard for us to escape. After all, we're not purebloods and don't have the ability to freely traverse it…"
'Nightmare Creatures?! Are they after me?' Leylin was shocked, and an idea flashed in his head.
After all, he didn't have a true Alabaster Devilsnake bloodline, and even his ability to to link together with dreamforce came through consuming the Alabaster Devilsnake bloodline. As a result, this anomaly of being discovered by the Nightmare Creatures could be understood.
"Haha… Haha..." They continued to advance towards Leylin, and the yellow clown appeared more and more frequently.
"Go away!" Belinda's face was very impatient and she suddenly roared, scarlet ripples loudly exploding forwards, splashing on the trees and grass.
By the time the explosion had passed, the forest across them had been cleared into a bare pathway. The yellow clown that had been there had vanished without a trace.
"Coo coo..." The sound of fluttering bird wings could be heard, and soon after a gigantic black tree next to Belinda came to life,
"Ahh!" Belinda's earth lizard was quickly bound up by vines, and let out a high-pitched lamenting call.
"Eternal Light!" A scarlet light suddenly appeared in Leylin's hand, making the vines shrink back swiftly as if they had seen their natural enemy.
"Let's go!" Belinda flew behind Leylin, and his earth lizard began to flee at the speed of lightning.
-x-X-x-
"These vile Dreamscape Creatures, we clearly had an agreement before for the protection of our bloodline!" Belinda snarled rudely, flushing red with anger.
"Dreamscape's changes are too strange, we can't judge it by normal standards…" Leylin had already faintly guessed the reason for the creatures chasing him, but naturally he wouldn't say tell her, "Perhaps these Dreamscape Creatures are not the same as those you signed the agreement with…"
Hearing his words, Belinda became silent.
"Indeed. The strength of Dreamscape Creatures is not governed by any laws. Perhaps the Nightmare Creatures we had previously signed an agreement with have all died. These new Nightmare Creatures could even have evolved from earthworms yesterday." A wry smile appeared on Belinda's face, as if she had figured it out.
"Even with our bloodline, our use of dreamforce cannot match that of these natives, we're in trouble." She looked at Leylin with a twinge of regret in her eyes, she clearly felt very apologetic about involving him in this.
"Nevermind, I agreed to this path myself." Leylin spurred on the earth lizard he was riding, making it increase its speed without stopping. However, the rays of light in his hand did not fade in the slightest.
'A.I. Chip, attempt to detect the position of these Nightmare Creatures.' While silent, he was conversing with the A.I. Chip in his mind.
[Beep! Scanning… Unknown interference experienced, unable to determine positions.] The A.I. Chip's answer filled Leylin with regret.
*Crash!* At this moment, waves seemed to be traversing the earth itself, causing it to violently rise and fall. A great number of the giant black trees roared, unrooting themselves from the earth. Their vines were so thick that they obscured the sky completely, sheltering the trees from the light.
*Whoosh!* A black bat shot across the sky like a hurricane, extinguishing the light in Leylin's hands.
"We cannot lose our way! I can only be sure of our safety on this route!" Belinda's expression became rather urgent.
"Roar…" A great number of the one-eyed Ents combined to form a wall of wood, covering the original path. Leylin and Belinda were blocked off firmly.
'Damn!' Leylin cursed in secret. The A.I. Chip's prompt came over as well, [Violent dreamforce undulations discovered from underneath the host, it is recommended to move away.]
"Go!" Leylin grabbed Belinda and began to leap quickly away.
*Whoosh!* Just as Leylin had risen into the air, a dark red spot suddenly appeared on the ground, transforming the void into innumerable streaks. The streaks twisted and warped, revolving to form an irregular sphere.
This sphere suddenly shrank and began to emit terrifying undulations.
A massive explosion rumbled out, and Leylin's mount was immediately reduced to a skeleton before even its bones vanished completely. Leylin and Belinda were immediately caught up in a frightening shockwave halfway into the sky, sent flying violently. It was as if they struck a wall of solid steel.
*Bang!* Leylin fell to the ground, and even the clothes on his back were shredded open, exposing a layer of fine scales beneath. It was because of this layer of protection that he hadn't suffered a massive injury from the earlier explosion.
"Belinda! Belinda!" Leylin flicked away the soil on his body and loudly shouted, but did not receive any response.
He looked around him. He was in a neat garden, with clear spring water splashing out of a white marble fountain. Belinda and the forest from earlier had completely vanished without a trace.
[Beep! Scanning complete, dreamforce intensity increased, host determined to be in Dreamscape.] The A.I. Chip's prompt appeared before Leylin's eyes.
'As expected, that explosion earlier took me directly from the crack between Dreamscape and the Purgatory World to Dreamscape itself. This…' Leylin had a premonition. If he could completely analyse this process, it would be of great benefit to the A.I. Chip's mission of analysing Dreamscape transport.
After completely comprehending the law behind this sort of transport, he would no longer need the bloodline of the Alabaster Devilsnake to enter Dreamscape. Transporting himself to other worlds would bring about great benefits.
'Dreamscape…' Leylin looked upon the realistic scene of the garden and fountain with a contemplative expression.
This time, he had entered Dreamscape with his real body. Without his main body serving as the coordinate, and without the astral laboratory linked with it, perhaps he would be trapped here for the rest of his life.
'However, the Alabaster Devilsnake blood that I possess is the key to entering and leaving Dreamscape.' Leylin stroked his chin in thought. His mind drifted to another topic.
"Almighty Ruler of Chaos, the resolution of free will, I call for your arrival…" The chaos crystal Leylin had collected earlier exploded in his hand, converging quickly into a Sacrificial Array.
The rune of the array depicted a giant bird with wings spread open, and it emitted a brilliant radiance.
'It was very difficult to link up. Because I'm only a rank 4 Sacrificer, I used up a chaos power crystal…' Leylin shut his eyes, his truesoul experiencing the power of the link.
The path of sacrifices was only common to the Purgatory World, and it naturally had its limits. The main one was that, once one left the Purgatory World, their connection would experience enormous interference.
On the whole, it was not beneficial for experts from other worlds to train in the path of offerings. It was like the distribution of goods: It didn't have many problems in the Purgatory World, but once one left it was like the trade route had become longer and on top of that various obstacles were added. It was terrible, and on a whole Sacrificers would make a loss every time some power was bestowed. Naturally, this path wouldn't be used in that case.
Consequently, those in the Magus World would at most use the Trial's Eye to sign a contract or the Nefarious Filthbird to renege on it. These two had few real Sacrificers there due to the frightful weakening effect of the world itself.
It was the same in Dreamscape. However, with Leylin's unwavering perseverance and lack of regard for the consumption of chaos power crystals, his truesoul finally linked up to a certain will.
Compared to the Purgatory World where the Nefarious Filthbird's will could descend anytime and anywhere, it was extremely troublesome here. It was just like receiving a bad signal from a transmitting station, even the information that got there was disjointed.
"You are... in Dream…scape..." The Nefarious Filthbird's voice seemed to be a little intermittent, but Leylin could still understand its meaning.
"The forces separating us are too powerful, even I am unable to transmit too much power. Perhaps only my Feather of Chaos can give you some hope…"
"Feather of Chaos?" Leylin still had some doubts, but the Sacrificial Array did not have any other response. The communications had quickly broken down, and even receiving these few short sentences had consumed nearly half his chaos crystal reserves.
It was necessary to understand that this chaos power was a part of his reward for getting rid of a portion of the Trial's Eye forces in the Hail Continent's coastal waters. He'd even dispatched many rank 4s to acquire it.
In actual fact, these crystals with the Nefarious Filthbird's power were enough for a rank 4 Sacrificer to amplify his attributes by more than tenfold, and at the very least they would reach the level of the governor of Elias.
"Dreamforce, chaos power… these two share some similarities…" Leylin reached into his bag and took out a grey feather.
'The power of the Feather of Chaos lies in chaos, concealment. Dreamforce itself is full of uncertainties. There seem to be some similarities, but there is a greater number of differences. How will chaos power affect Dreamscape?'
"A.I. Chip, record the following scenes and store all data!" Leylin commanded.
[Beep! Establishing mission, opening omni-directional mode!] The A.I. Chip's voice was transmitted.
'Chaos power!' Leylin took out yet another grey chaos crystal, putting it next to the feather.
*Buzz!* Bright, coloured light burst forth from the crystals, and soon after the chaos power turned into a stream of light that entered the Feather of Chaos.
A layer of grey mist radiated in all directions. The areas illuminated by the feather's radiance began to experience strange transformations, and a great number of flowerbeds began to warp and deform. Some directly cracked, and the others grew irregular. Other areas turned into places filled with human faces.
The white marble of the fountain turned pitch black in a flash, and began to fall off layer by layer. In the blink of an eye, the clear spring water within had also turned blood red, and the entire pool seemed to be filled with blood, a demonic stench emanating from it.
Even the space in this area disintegrated under the grey radiance, the entire place appearing to come to a standstill. It drained of its colour, becoming like a black and white photograph.
"Coo! Good afternoon, mister! We meet again!" A grey owl fluttered its wings and landed on the side of the fountain. Leylin felt incomparably familiar with it.
"Indeed, we meet again," Leylin bowed slightly, "Your Majesty gave me my key before, and it was of great help to me. But I'm afraid I'll have to trouble you again, does Your Majesty know of a way to leave Dreamscape?"
"What key? Are you talking about my future self?" The owl nipped at its wings, "That doesn't concern me at all, that was my future self acting on its own initiative… As for the issue of leaving… perhaps Madam Minaz could help you.."
"Madam Minaz? Where is she?" Leylin eagerly made his inquiry, but at this moment the owl that had appeared so suddenly earlier had completely vanished with a trace.