Boom!
Phoebus suddenly unleashed his sixth-level dragon might!
The terrifying aura, like an invisible mountain, weighed down on everyone's hearts!
Everyone around, save for Allen and a handful of sixth-level experts, trembled under the dragon's pressure.
Leni bore the brunt of the impact, her face immediately draining of color.
Her legs wobbled uncontrollably, and she was on the verge of collapse.
Alan stepped aside, reached out, and steadily supported Leni.
Leni leaned into his embrace, her delicate, adorable demeanor charming.
Phoebus watched, his jealousy growing even more intense!
He clenched his teeth, slowly extended his right hand, and a silver vortex appeared on his palm!
Steel Dragon Break, Swirling Dragon Claw.
This type of martial art with the word "dragon" in its name wasn't unique to the Silver Moon Monastery. In fact, the South Island Warlock Academy, a Dragon Vein Family, is the birthplace of this series of martial arts.
Phoebus spent twenty-three years in seclusion within the Time Vortex, diligently training, and his time was not wasted.
Not only did he awaken the "Vortex Dragon Claw," but he also integrated it with his own red dragon bloodline, infusing it with dragon might and fire attributes.
With a single claw strike through the air, he unleashed a gravitational field with the dual effects of "fear" and "burning"!
"Fire-type Vortex Dragon Claw, with mental suppression...?" Allen raised an eyebrow slightly. "Interesting!"
Phoebus's strength is not bad!
It's a perfect whetstone to test the "Flame Dragon Claw"!
Allen held Renée in his left arm and slowly raised his right.
Just as he was about to unleash the Flame Dragon Claw and confront Phoebus head-on, a strange wave of magical energy suddenly erupted in the air!
Swoosh! A flash of cold light.
A black-winged golden sword appeared out of thin air.
As if controlled by remote control, it cut through the air!
With overwhelming force, it cleaved Phoebus's swirling dragon claws, its momentum undiminished as it soared forward!
Phoebus's face changed color, and he tried to dodge.
But to his horror, he discovered he was bound by a mysterious force, frozen in place, unable to move!
He watched helplessly as the black-winged golden sword pierced him.
Phoebus's face lost its arrogance, and cold sweat beaded his forehead.
Until the sword's tip touched his brow, it hovered in mid-air.
The golden blade hummed and vibrated.
A moment of silence fell over the castle square.
The onlookers, their eyes fixed on the golden sword.
Experts know the ins and outs. Shiva, Alan, Caroline, Nora, Pamela, and a few others all looked up at the sky.
Atop the castle's bell tower, a figure hovered in the air.
A mask obscured her face, revealing only a pair of golden eyes.
Her long, silky black hair fluttered in the wind.
Her skin was flawless, like a piece of jade.
A pair of black butterfly wings, adorned with golden eye patterns, spread out from her back.
Given her slender figure, she resembled a young woman.
However, her flat chest lacked any feminine characteristics.
Oddly, she also lacked any masculine traits, such as an Adam's apple.
"Saint Demon Ashura, the atavistic form of the Demonic Heavenly Royal Family!"
Master Shiva whispered, his voice remarkably solemn.
"Saint Demon Ashura?" Allen asked hesitantly. "Teacher, so is it a prince or a princess?"
"It's the same."
"It's the same?!" Allen was shocked.
"Hehe... little fool, don't you know? The Holy Demon Royal Family is all asexual, neither male nor female."
"Since the first Holy Demon Ancestor, they have been cursed by the gods, unable to reproduce normally."
"To break the curse and pass on their bloodline, the Holy Demon Ancestor used a secret technique to create new life from their own flesh and blood!"
"Thus, the Holy Demon Clan was born!"
"Creation from flesh and blood is undoubtedly a miracle, but unfortunately, it still cannot completely break the curse of the gods!"
"The Holy Demon Clan is born asexual."
"Even if they use shapeshifting magic to forcibly assume gender characteristics, they cannot conceive and pass on their family line."
"The Holy Demon Clan never ages, eternally youthful."
" However, their lifespans also have limits, and they will eventually be killed.
"Upon the death of the Holy Demon Clan, their bodies vanish, but their bloodlines live on."
"The bloodline they leave behind awaits the arrival of their successors."
"If someone were able to fuse the bloodlines of an angel with those of a demon, devil, or rakshasa, they could potentially evolve into a Holy Demon bloodline, inheriting the bloodline tradition and the so-called 'Imperial Name' left behind by the previous royal family."
"Those who inherit the Imperial Name will continually unlock the power of their bloodline."
"With each level up, a portion of the memories of their countless previous reincarnations will be unlocked."
"It is said that when one reaches the end of the path of cultivation and unlocks all memories of reincarnation, they will receive the legacy of the Holy Demon Ancestor."
After hearing her story, Alan suddenly had a question.
"Teacher, according to you, the number of the Holy Demon Royal Family was determined from the very beginning, and it neither increases nor decreases."
"Only when a member of the royal family dies, leaving the title vacant, can another person take over and inherit the throne?"
"That's right!" Master Shiva nodded gently. "How many bloodline branches did the Holy Demon Ancestor create?"
"Some say thirty, others say thirteen. There's no consensus."
"You only need to know that the Holy Demon Royal Family has three bloodline branches. A limited number suffices, collectively known as the 'Holy Demon Ashuras.'"
"Each branch has only one royal member in office."
"If he doesn't die, the same bloodline is destined to remain unborn!"
"For countless centuries, the Holy Demon Royal Family of Origin City has passed down their bloodline in this way."
"As for the race and family background before the bloodline awakened, it doesn't matter; it's all just a matter of fate."
After hearing this, Allen immediately recalled a saying from his past life.
This... isn't it the reincarnation of a spirit child?!
At this moment, the tightly closed castle gate suddenly flew open.
Metal clashed against the stone floor, making a crisp sound.
Instantly, it caught everyone's attention!
A tall figure approached the castle gate.
Dressed in a tuxedo, a gray wig, and a top hat.
A pair of pince-nez perched on his nose.
At first glance, he looked like a graceful old gentleman.
However, a closer look revealed that he was not human!
His skin had a soft silver metallic texture.
His limbs and head were also cast from silver metal.
His finger joints and facial features were all lifelike.
Even the expression in his pupils was kind, like that of a truly refined gentleman!
"Ancestral spirits! That's... a Mithril Golem!"
An exclamation rose from the crowd.
"Friend, please allow me to point out your inaccuracy."
An elegant smile graced the face of the constructed gentleman.
"My name is Miri. I'm indeed a Mithril Golem at heart, but unlike my brainless cousins, I possess profound inner qualities and the ability to think independently!"
"To be more precise, I'm an 'Enlightened Mithril Golem,' and also an Artificer."
Everyone present was horrified!
A Mithril Golem is a supreme construct second only to an Adamantine Golem!
Enchanted with the ninth level of "Construct Enlightenment," it is endowed with humanity and wisdom, becoming an "Enlightened Mithril Golem."
A golem with awakened wisdom can also become an "Artificer," significantly superior to a human artificer from the outset!
Miri's gaze passed over the visitors and landed on the mysterious prince in the air. He removed his hat and bowed.
"Your Highness, Gella, I apologize for intervening in this commotion."
"Leave the rest of the chores to me."
The mysterious figure, whose royal name was "Gella," nodded gently.
He folded his magnificent butterfly wings and vanished into thin air.
At the same time, the black-winged golden sword, controlled by his remote control, vanished as well.
Phoebus breathed a sigh of relief, but remained unable to move.
Miri glanced at him calmly and said calmly:
"I am the castle steward and the maze keeper, responsible for presiding over the trials."
"Vengeances are prohibited in Origin City!"
"Since you are ignorant of the law, I will let it go this time."
"After a hundred days, when the trials are over, I will give you a chance to settle your personal grudges."
After that, Miri snapped his fingers.
Snap!
A crisp sound echoed through the air, triggering a magical resonance.
The force field that bound Phoebus was then released.
Phoebus wiped a cold sweat from his forehead, his expression grim.
Alan ignored Phoebus and examined Miri curiously.
This enlightened mithril golem claimed to be the steward of Origin Castle.
His dress and demeanor certainly had the air of an aristocratic butler.
However, Alan was more concerned with his other self-proclaimed title.
Mystache Master!!
Warlock ranks are typically divided into levels 1 to 9.
In fact, above level 9, there's the legendary realm!
Legendary warlocks are capable of comprehending legendary magic.
Mystache, of all legendary magic, is the most renowned! This spell not only covers a vast area, forming a defensive barrier, but also serves as a platform for loading various spells.
With specific permissions, one can use these spells for free within the area covered by the maze.
Mirui's own strength is unknown.
However, as the maze administrator, he has the right to use all the magic mounted on the maze!
It's almost equivalent to possessing quasi-legendary spellcasting abilities!
Within Origin Castle, the maze administrator is a god!
If Mirui could call upon the legendary power of the maze, not only would Phoebus be defeated, but even if everyone present joined forces, they would be easily crushed by a single finger!
Mirui is merely a steward in Origin City, yet he's already ridiculously powerful.
Just how powerful are the royal family members of higher status than him, such as the elusive "Prince of Light"?
Alan couldn't estimate.
Origin City, truly the origin of all things in the sorcerer world, the supreme holy land!
The outside world's top masters, so-called geniuses, and patriarchs are no more than sixth-rank masters.
What do they count for in Origin City?
There's always a higher mountain, and there's always a higher mountain!
Once you enter this city, all your past glory and status are nothing but dust.
If you want to make it in Origin City, you must first control your temper.
The more arrogant and domineering you are, the sooner you'll die!
...
The first floor of Origin Castle was decorated like a tavern.
Alan and the others sat around a table.
The table was set with exquisite tableware.
A bell-shaped jar covered the plate.
Alan lifted the jar and took a look. The plate was empty.
The wine glass next to it was also empty.
Butler Miri stood at the bar.
He picked up a small brass hammer and rang the dinner bell.
Ding-ding...
The crisp ring echoed through the hall.
In response to this signal, the empty cups immediately filled with wine.
The aroma of food wafted through the gap between the plate and the cover.
Alan lifted the cover again, revealing a golden roast goose perfectly placed in the center of the plate.
The food was steaming hot, and the aroma of fat filled the air!
Everyone served their own meal.
Alan finished his portion and, following the butler's instructions, covered the plate with the cover.
Six seconds later, the cover was removed.
The plate was filled with new dishes.
Alan ate three servings in a row, each time with a different main course.
Even though he knew it was a magical creation, he still found it amazing!
"That red wine braised beef just now was delicious," Alan said to Kelly, who was sitting to his left.
He casually lifted the cover, and surprisingly, there was another red wine braised beef!
Was it a coincidence, or a wish come true?
Confused, Alan quickly finished the beef.
He wished for another roast goose on the empty, covered plate!
He lifted the cover, and sure enough, the fragrant roast goose was right in front of him!
Alan was delighted.
This dining style was perfect for his taste!
"Whatever you want, you can have it! It's a real foodie's paradise!"
Julie, sitting across from him, exclaimed, holding a chocolate cake.
"The best part is... all the food is free!"
Kelly added with a smile.
Seeing the guests enjoying their meal, butler Mi Rui smiled with satisfaction.
He poured himself a glass of wine and flicked his fingers.
Ding!
Liquid Alchemy was applied to the glass.
The aged red wine instantly transformed into a glass of motor oil.
The butler raised his glass and invited the guests to a toast.
He emptied his glass, set down his glass, and got down to business.
"You've probably noticed by now that Origin City is a secret realm!"
"Ten days in the city is equivalent to only one day in the outside world."
"The magic concentration in the city is three times that of the outside world!"
"So, while you spent a hundred days in the city on trial, only ten days in the outside world have passed, and your progress in cultivation is comparable to three hundred days in the outside world!"
Everyone, except Allen, who was still gorging himself on his food, put down their knives and forks, their faces filled with excitement.
Just this tripled cultivation efficiency alone makes all the hard work involved in qualifying for the Trial worthwhile! It's so worth it!
The butler smiled faintly and continued:
"Tripled cultivation efficiency is just the most basic benefit."
"During the Trial, I will observe your performance."
"I will assign reasonable scores based on your growth."
"Trial points, combined with your final combat performance, will form a comprehensive evaluation."
"As long as you pass the evaluation, you will be officially selected to join Origin City and become a 'Galaxy Guard'!"
"Galaxy Guards have the right to reside in Origin City permanently and enjoy tripled cultivation efficiency indefinitely."
"By completing Royal Family missions, you'll also have the opportunity to obtain higher-level inheritances and more valuable cultivation resources."
"Mr. Miri, what exactly does the 'Galaxy' in 'Galaxy Guard' refer to?"
Little Fatty Feilin raised his hand to ask.
"Why do we need to defend this river?"
The butler smiled mysteriously. "It's not convenient to reveal it now. You'll find out after you pass the trial."
"Let's continue with our previous topic."
"There's a drawer under the dining table. Open it now. Inside is the trial equipment provided specifically for you."
The group followed the butler's instructions and groped under the table. Sure enough, they found a small, well-hidden drawer.
They opened the drawer and found three items.
A flexible leather bracelet.
A brass ring.
And a crystal bottle with a needle.
"Let me introduce these three pieces of equipment."
Butler Mi Rui picked up the leather bracelet first.
"This is a navigation bracelet. Wear it on your wrist and it will automatically record your whereabouts during the trial and generate a map."
"Some may ask, where is the trial location?"
"Haha! Actually, the trial location isn't in this world, but a specially created space within the Origin Secret Realm."
The butler took a sip of motor oil and continued to describe the trial space.
"The trial space is divided into several areas, each featuring a different natural environment, even simulating the ecology of the outer planes."
"For example, the 'Holy White Tower' simulates the ecology of the Celestial Realm."
"Blood Hand Fortress simulates a stronghold on the Abyssal Front."
"Iron Fist Fortress, a military stronghold of the demons of Hell."
"Outsider Sanctuary, a neutral location between the Abyss and Hell, a gathering place for the Blood War mercenaries."
"Evergarden, home to revitalized plants and fairies."
"Monster Mountain Range, home to a variety of monsters and raptors."
"Power Plateau, home to the major giant tribes."
"Dragon Island, home to five-colored dragons and metallic dragons."
"The Ghost Forest is haunted by many incorporeal undead creatures."
"The Palace of the Dead, an ancient castle shrouded in perpetual mist, is home to the ancient vampire count and his descendants."
"The Lost Mine, the only way to the Underdark."
"The Heart of Stone, simulates the ecology of the Earth Elemental Plane."
"The Feather Island, a floating island with an ecology and climate similar to the Air Elemental Plane."
"The Embers Desert, as scorching as the Fire Elemental Plane."
"The Steam Lake, the best place to learn about the Water Elemental Plane."
"The Polar Sea, where many arctic monsters roam the glaciers."
...
The butler introduced over ten exploration locations before returning to the main topic.
"The aforementioned landmarks are all pre-stored in the bracelet."
"Put on the bracelet and chant the spell to teleport directly to the corresponding location, marking the starting point of the Hundred-Day Trial."
"Afterwards, save any location you discover on the bracelet map and teleport directly there, continuing your unfinished adventure."
After introducing the navigation bracelet, the butler picked up the copper ring.
"Put on this unassuming ring. If you encounter a fatal threat or lose your mind during the trial, it will automatically trigger and teleport you back to the castle."
"Remember! The ring's magic can only be activated once a day!"
"If you encounter fatal danger again within a day, this ring will not save you!"
After solemnly emphasizing this, the butler picked up the crystal bottle.
"This is a blood collection bottle with built-in classification and storage functions."
"During the trial, when you hunt monsters, you can use this bottle to collect high-purity blood essence, storing up to three portions."
"Besides using the collected blood essence yourself, you can also sell it to me in exchange for magic stones or other cultivation resources."
"Collecting blood essence is your primary mission during the trial!"
The butler emphasized his tone, his expression serious.
"When a sorcerer reaches a certain stage of cultivation, they'll reach their upper limit."
"To break through the bottleneck, one must break through the upper limit of their bloodline."
"Generally speaking, there are two ways."
"One is to fuse with other bloodlines, leveraging their strengths and overcoming their weaknesses."
"The other is to evolve into a higher-level bloodline within the same lineage."
"Both of these breakthrough paths require bloodline essence!"
"Bloodline fusion, you all understand."
"Bloodline evolution, commonly known as sorcerer advancement, requires a few more words."
Miri's gaze first fell on Shiva, then turned to examine Caroline and the others.
"You should know the common advancement paths."
"For example, beastmen can choose to advance to the Gaiding Celestial Clan or the Rakshasa Demonic Ghost."
"In the outside world, advancing to the Celestial Clan or Rakshasa requires worshipping a deity. But in Origin City, you don't need to trade your faith!"
"Complete specific advancement tasks and meet the city's advancement requirements. You don't need to worship a specific deity or demon to advance!"
Upon hearing this, the faces of the people in the Silver Moon Monastery and the Beast Worship Cult changed, and they murmured.
Alan feigned surprise, but inwardly he was secretly delighted.
Ever since the day he traveled to the Warlock World, he had instinctively rejected worshipping a deity.
If advancing to the animals Celestial Clan without worshipping a deity was possible, it was worth considering.
The butler coughed, signaling silence, and then introduced several other, more rare advancement paths.
"Elementalists can advance to the corresponding Giant."
"To advance, Nature Warlocks must hunt unnatural creatures like dead spirits or constructed creatures."
"Conversely, to advance, Necromancers must sacrifice lives."
"Dragon Warlocks can advance by hunting hostile dragons or giants, the common enemy of dragons."
"Beyond this, there are some more hidden and powerful paths to advancement that you must explore on your own."
The butler gestured for everyone to put away their three pieces of equipment.
"These three pieces of equipment are only good for the Hundred Day Trial; they're useless after that."
"During the trial, you'll live on the second floor of the castle."
"Each room corresponds to a secret space. Upon entering, you'll be automatically transported to it."
"The living environment is nestled between mountains and water, offering beautiful scenery."
"The spacious townhouses are fully furnished and cleaned daily by magic."
"Close friends can live together for easy access."
"The first-floor restaurant... Free food and drinks are always available."
"You're welcome to come down and chat, have a drink with friends, exchange Trial experiences, and team up."
"I'm based at the bar on the first floor. Feel free to come see me if you need anything."
"As long as it doesn't violate our principles, I'll do my best to answer your questions."
"Finally, if you don't need any spoils from the Trials, such as Bloodline Essence, you can sell them to me."
The butler rubbed his hands together, a characteristically profiteer's smile.
"I sell unlimited quantities of magic stones of various attributes, meditation techniques up to level 7, various supermagic skills, and a variety of bloodline awakening potions and supplementary potions you rarely see in the outside world!"
The butler's last words piqued Allen's interest.
I immediately asked for a list of potions.
After reviewing it, he was truly amazed!
The list contained hundreds of potions!
It includes "Ageless Elixir" levels 1-2, as well as three levels of "Heavenly Replenishing Elixir": ordinary, advanced, and superior.
Ordinary, available at the Silver Moon Monastery, is only effective for bloodlines with a maximum limit of 5.
Advanced Heavenly Replenishing Elixir is suitable for bloodlines with a maximum limit of 7.
High Heavenly Replenishing Elixir has a maximum limit of 9!
There are also three magical "Holy Elixirs."
The Bodybuilding Elixir improves physical attributes after injection.
The Lightness Elixir improves agility.
The Soul-Concentrating Elixir improves spirit.
Attribute Elixirs are divided into levels 1-3.
The lowest level increases 1 point, and so on.
The three levels of Holy Elixir can actually stack in effect!
If you buy all of them, you can collectively increase all three attributes by up to 6 points!
Alan looked at the list of potions, feeling overwhelmed.
I secretly planned to buy all of the rare medicines mentioned above within a hundred days!