231 - 238

Chapter 231 – Elsid's Gifts (3)

The conversation ended with Elsid's gift. An alliance might be established, but Orta didn't have the full authority of the state. He needed to clear it with Kurt III first before more details could be discussed.

Thus, the magicians in the secret room decided to return to their quarters. Vince and Carter followed their guides, while Orta accompanied Theodore. The place where the two people were heading was a private room.

It was a room which contained the defectors, whose identities only Orta and Theodore knew. Randolph Clovis and Rebecca Clovis, the successors of Clovis who once excelled in the empire as one of the Seven Swords, were now hiding in this room after defecting from Andras.

Knock, knock.

The senses of a sword master would've noticed the approach of the Theodore and Orta a long time ago, so Theodore knocked briefly without any worries. Unsurprisingly, the door opened as soon as he raised his hand.

"Ah, you've come?" Randolph greeted him cheerfully as usual, but then he looked awkward when he saw Orta behind Theodore. Randolph's intuition sensed that Orta was strong, so he didn't let go of his vigilance from the first meeting. Theodore was aware of this, so he felt the tension constrict his neck.

Then Randolph spoke with an awkward expression, "…It looks like you didn't come to play, but would you like some tea?"

Theodore smiled wryly and shook his head.

"No, that's okay. White Tower Master?"

"I would like a drink."

Orta nodded and crossed the threshold, while Theodore followed and closed the door. Then he used magic to completely block sound from escaping the room. Spells which could deceive a sword master's senses were rare, but a magician always needed to be prepared for the worst. Of course, there was someone watching Theodore's actions obsessively.

Theodore looked forward and faced her.

"Good evening, Sir Theodore."

She had blonde hair which fell to her shoulders and green eyes that were a different color to Ellenoa's. Her white skin showed she was from a noble family, but her firmly disciplined body showed that she didn't grow up like a plant in a greenhouse. A storyteller would describe her as a 'manly beauty.'

Rebecca Clovis was truly a knight.

"…Good evening. How are you feeling?"

"I'm okay. I had no big injuries in the first place."

It was as she said. Pan Helliones hadn't inflicted any injuries on Rebecca while binding her. He hadn't wanted her to be injured while bound on a big battlefield. As such, Theodore's condition was worse than Rebecca's.

"Captain Theodore." The conversation between the two of them was interrupted by Orta.

He looked down at the black tea Randolph handed him before sighing and placing it on a corner of the table. It was an elusive taste which was hard to express.

Then Orta spoke as casually as always, "The expedition army, including me, will return home two days later in the early dawn. The war mages are Meltor's core power, so they can't stay away for too long."

"Yes, I'm aware of that."

"The magic circle preparation will be done by that time. The problem is… your body's condition is worse than I thought."

The Clovis siblings' expressions stiffened as they listened.

Simultaneously, Orta tapped his index finger on the table. "Your circles are overloaded. It is uncommon for a 7th Circle magician, but maybe it will be rewarding on the way to the next level. These symptoms will get better over time. But…"

Theodore interrupted, "I won't be able to go through the long-distance movement."

"…That's right," Orta confirmed with a heavy voice under the mask. "It is only a little bit painful now, but long-distance space travel can cause serious problems. However, we can't keep the troops in the Soldun Kingdom until you are healed."

"I understand, Tower Master."

Theodore's body was important, but the war mages were Meltor's precious lifeline. They weren't a force that could be left neglected in the Soldun Kingdom. Theodore was well aware of this and accepted it.

Orta's judgment was correct, so Theodore had one favor left to ask. "Then please look after these two people."

Apart from their relationship with Theodore, the two people were ultimately defectors who had come from an enemy country. There might be some who would doubt their intentions, or some people might use them to get closer to Theodore. However, if a famous person like White Tower Master Orta was looking after them, then it was possible to block such attempts.

"..I'll do so. Don't forget that you are ultimately responsible for guaranteeing their identity."

"Of course."

"Hrmm."

Orta's conversation ended there. He gulped down the rest of the tea and left the room with a simple goodbye. Perhaps that was his own consideration. No matter what they were to Theodore, Orta was still a stranger to the Clovis siblings. Therefore, the contents of the conversation would be greatly reduced.

Randolph looked at Theodore with a subtle expression. "Theo, is that person reliable?"

"Yes…" It was an unexpected question but Theodore replied quickly.

"A worthy ally?"

"…That is for certain. He is a person you should never be careless around, and it is impossible to see the bottom of him. It is reassuring if he is an ally, but I wouldn't be able to sleep at night if he were an enemy," Theodore said, smiling bitterly.

It couldn't be helped. Orta was a completely different type of person from Veronica and Blundell, who openly showed off their presences. He didn't care about right and wrong when achieving his purpose, and used whatever method was necessary to defeat his target, even if it was cowardly. In some ways, he was more of an assassin than an actual assassin. It was no wonder that Kurt put him in charge of important external missions.

Following this, Theodore, Randolph, and Rebecca talked casually. They conversed about what had happened after their separation in the Sipoto wilderness, the reunion with Rebecca, thrashing the rotten elders of their family, and so on.

As Theodore focused on their stories, he would occasionally laugh loudly or smile darkly. There was a bitter story and also a depressing story. Even so, they could laugh. The places and events were different, but they could congratulate each other on the result.

Then the conversation between the three people ended. It happened when Theodore got up from the chair and stood in front of the door.

Sururung. Rebecca abruptly pulled out her sword and approached him. Theodore didn't feel any hostility, but it was natural to be confused. However, it was nothing compared to what followed.

"I swear on the Clovis name, this body…"

Randolph knew the meaning of the phrase and his eyes widened, while Theodore remained silent because he didn't know what was going on.

Thanks to that, Rebecca's words echoed in the room, "From now on, this body will serve you like a piece of steel. I swear that this body may break and melt, but it will never bend. My heart will jump at your command, or stop at your command."

"R-Rebecca?"

"I will serve you until the day that the sun no longer sets."

Rebecca reversed the sword she held in his hand, placed her right knee on the ground and bowed deeply.

Theodore didn't know the meaning of this gesture, but he could feel the weight behind it. It was a covenant an Andras knight used when they wanted to serve a master for the rest of their life.

"Rebecca, Clovis's daughter, sees her master."

Rebecca raised her sword with both hands, laughing with an expression that Theodore had never seen from her before.

* * *

"Hah…" Theodore sighed as he fell onto his bed.

Setting aside his physical fatigue, Rebecca's vow was very shocking. It was something that a warrior could only do once in their lives. The knight who swore this oath devoted their life and death to their master. Randolph had explained so with a heavy sigh.

–Sigh, I am asking this of you.

Randolph didn't even try to persuade her, probably because he felt the weight of her words and her stubbornness. If she intended to withdraw this oath, she wouldn't have made it in the first place.

His only sister had become the subordinate of his friend. Theodore was reliable. However, as Rebecca's brother, it was natural for Randolph to feel disturbed.

Rebecca's words still remained in Theodore's ears.

–I won't follow My Lord right now, Rebecca said. Then she laid her hands on her heart with a face filled with joy and continued, –This body of mine is not yet able to be your sword and protect you. I will come find you again on the day when I won't be a burden to you.

Rebecca said she would become a sword master for Theodore and then stubbornly bowed her head. She showed her intention to fulfill her oath, even if he refused. Theodore reluctantly accepted her sword and returned it. As a result, an unofficial relationship formed between the two.

"…Well, it can't be helped."

Fortunately, he couldn't find any feelings of affection on her face. He already had the courtship with Ellenoa, so fortunately the situation hadn't become more complicated.

Right now, Theodore's current capabilities were more important than Rebecca's actions.

'Let's think about this instead.' After all, the problem with Rebecca wouldn't have another answer even if he worried about it. 'Let's replay the fight against Pan Helliones.'

It was easier to think about magic than love relationships. His body cooled down as soon as soon as he imagined Pan Helliones' face. Pan Helliones was the owner of a destructive power which could collapse a mountain in one attack. It wasn't the first time Theodore had confronted a sword master, but it made him realize that the world was truly wide.

Additionally, it helped him to realize what he lacked.

'I fought too crudely. If I combined my techniques effectively, I wouldn't have had to gamble with Abraxas.'

It wasn't arrogance but the truth. Theodore's total powers already exceeded those of a normal master. He had the fires of Muspelheim, the blood of a sea dragon the divinity of the wind, and the divinity of Mother Earth. There were also the dimensional abilities of Umbra and his Forced Harmonization. For him who was nearing an 'almighty' state, Theodore had many options.

What if he had moved Hellfire through space by exploiting Dimensional Leave?

What if he had bombarded Pan Helliones in all directions with lightning strikes?

What if he had used Mitra's power to soften the ground?

There were a few effective alternatives. However, at the time of the fight, he hadn't been able to come up with these solutions. Why hadn't he thought of those ideas at the time? He had stayed cool in his own way, but he still hadn't been thinking calmly.

'…This is the problem with having too many powers.'

The skills each had strong personalities, and if even one ability reached its peak, that would be the ultimate power.

Umbra, Muspelheim, sea dragon, Mother Earth, wind god…

A person normally devoted their life to studying one power, while Theodore was trying to grasp all of them. Was this greedy method wrong?

–Don't misunderstand. Gluttony trampled on the anxiety which sprouted within Theodore. –This diversity is User's strength. Right now, it is meaningless to pursue another way. You will eventually reach the peak of all of them when joining them together.

'…Is that so?'

-That's right. You can fill up what you are lacking. Eat them, eat everything. There is no reason for User to feel ignorant.

Indeed, this was the remark of a gluttonous grimoire. Theodore couldn't help laughing as he acknowledged that Gluttony had a point.

If Theodore consolidated his powers into one, he would surely become stronger. However, he couldn't relax before it was consolidated. Currently, it was difficult to demonstrate the true value of Forced Harmonization, which mixed all magic into one.

So, he had to eat until it was all filled up.

Then an idea flashed through Theodore's mind. "I've decided."

–What?

"I will head toward Kargas."

Before Gluttony could ask why, Theodore explained, "I am going to meet that old man again."

The elderly face of a competitor he'd met in Kargas' underground auction rose into his mind. It was Heinrich. Unlike Theodore, Heinrich had been collecting original books for decades. The value of his library couldn't be measured.

Thus, Theodore's next destination was Sipoto.

Chapter 232 – Elsid's Gifts (4)

It was two days after that.

As Orta had announced in advance, he completed the creation of the large-scale magic circle to return with the expedition army. He was a 7th Circle magician and the best at space magic, but it still wasn't easy to take hundreds of people with him.

It had taken a few days to prepare a magic circle with a diameter of 100 meters and gather all the magic power.

'The recoil will be big, even if he is the tower master. Will he be okay?' Theodore's concern wasn't excessive.

After all, it was a big burden to move hundreds of people through long-distance space travel from the Central Continent to the Northern Continent. Theodore himself wasn't sure he would be able to do it at the 8th Circle.

Perhaps White Tower Master Orta had a 'Sorcery' that made this possible. At that moment, there was a throbbing pain in Theodore's chest. "Ugh."

This was circle overload; pain filled his abused body in exchange for completing the great magic Abraxas. Unlike trauma which could be treated with potions, this overload didn't have effective means of treatment. Despite the modern advances, the Magic Society didn't have a solution for it aside from 'time.'

He had consumed two elixirs, but he couldn't see any effects taking place.

'Well, I didn't think it would recover in just two days. …At least one month,' Theodore diagnosed himself and looked at the man approaching him.

The man's expression had been hidden since the moment Theodore met him.

"You are leaving for Kargas," the White Tower Master, Orta, spoke in a dry voice as usual.

"Yes, I will return via Sipoto."

"The border city. Are you perhaps planning to attend the underground auction? It isn't held at this time." Orta was head of the intelligence network, so he was well aware of the underground auction house associated with Sipoto. Maybe he had more details than the information guild.

While thinking he would need to find out later, Theodore replied to his question, "No. I have a person I want to meet. I will come home as soon as I finish with him."

"Give me the name of the person, just in case."

"Heinrich, famous for his nickname of the 'Old Books Maniac.'

"Old Books Maniac Heinrich… I understand. Then I will be going." Orta turned around at the reply from Theodore and headed to the center of the magic circle. It seemed that he needed to make final adjustments before the long-distance teleport.

Some people followed closely after him in approaching Theodore. They were Vince and the Clovis siblings, who were worried about Theodore's condition. The three people lined up before Theodore.

"In the end, you will be left alone," Vince said with a bitter smile. He couldn't do anything, despite his position as a teacher.

"Nothing will happen in a day or two."

"Then take care of yourself and return. There is no need to rush, but don't be too late."

"Yes. I will keep that in mind, Master."

Vince left after his farewell speech. Then Randolph spoke while scratching the back of his head in a sign of uneasiness, "…Are you sure I shouldn't stay by your side? It doesn't make sense to leave without you."

"Randolph, I understand your heart, but there is no need." Theodore shook his head with a light sigh. "Don't worry about me. Wait in Mana-vil with Rebecca."

Of course, there was an option to have Randolph accompany him. He could request the escort of a sword master. However, Theodore didn't choose that option. It wasn't because he didn't want to lean on Randolph but because he wanted to exclude the risk factor. He couldn't tell if there was a benefit to Randolph accompanying him.

'There might be some type of tracking device. The empire collects and uses all types of artifacts instead of magic. It is wiser to leave Randolph in Mana-vil in case his position is exposed to Andras.'

When they took Rebecca hostage, Andras had probably been expecting their betrayal. They wouldn't have ruled out the possibility of one of the Clovis siblings escaping. That was why it was decided to have them move to Meltor through Orta's space magic.

Randolph thought it was unfortunate, but Rebecca bowed to Theodore and followed his words. "I will wait until you return, My Lord."

"…Yes, I'll see you later.�� It was the best answer for Theodore, who still wasn't familiar with her. She was a knight he competed with once in public and the sister of his friend. Now, she had sworn a pledge of loyalty to him. There would be a chance to sort out this complicated relationship, but it would not be now.

Then almost a thousand people stood on the magic circle. The preparations were finished. Orta closed his eyes in the center, and the magic circle flashed.

Wuuuong…

The huge amount of magic power caused a gust of wind to blow, and an unknown pressure to build up. There was enough power that even a person who didn't practice mana could feel it. In the midst of that vortex, Orta's mouth opened, "「――――」"

Unfortunately, Theodore couldn't hear it. The space around Orta started to distort as soon as the words were spoken. It resembled a haze or a mirage, but anything which touched it disappeared without a trace. Space magic was dangerous and difficult magic. However, unlike the scale of the magic circle, the invocation was instant.

Flash! The light couldn't be penetrated with human vision, and the 800 people in the magic circle disappeared. One of the many mysteries of this age vanished without a trace.

"…This is amazing. It is hard to believe that a person can do such huge magic."

"It is ridiculous for us too." Theodore shrugged with a smile. If anyone could use this magic, the entire continent would be under the feet of the Meltor Kingdom. Theodore spoke to Baek Jongmyung for a while and then his means of transportation arrived.

Hii-hihihihing!

It was a carriage pulled by two horses. Although it seemed rough, the body of the carriage was actually covered with lightweight spells, and the inside of the carriage was four times wider than it seemed due to space magic.

This was a carriage for distinguished guests. It was the gift from King Elsid, who considered the fact that Theodore wouldn't want to be seen by others.

"Then I will be going now." Theodore shook Baek Jongmyung's hand, noticing his appreciation and anxiety. The appreciation was directed to Theodore, while the worry was probably…

"Please look after my son, Sir Theodore."

"You don't need to worry. The person who found his way to me isn't the same as before."

"Really? That boy…?" Baek Jongmyung was strangely moved by Theodore's words. Perhaps, it was like a baby bird leaving its nest? Theodore never had a child or disciple, so he didn't know the feeling.

The conversation between the two people ended there. Baek Jongmyung left, and Theodore entered the carriage, lying down on the bed.

This was his last memory in the Soldun Kingdom.

* * *

In a place that no one knew, someone opened their mouth. The person's appearance couldn't be seen because they were covered in darkness, but the voice seemed to come from a middle-aged man.

No, it was a voice that was like that of a young man. "I just received the news. He has crossed the border of the Soldun Kingdom. He is alone."

"Hoh." This time, it was the voice of an old man. "It is a good period to open the jaws of death… Can it be done?"

"No, we can't be sure of his power in the present." The third voice was that of a young woman. Just listening to the voice made a person feel like the owner of the voice was a beauty.

She spoke in a voice that didn't contain any emotions, "The target dealt with the 4th Sword, Pan Helliones. In addition, based on the level of the destruction marks left on Babarino Plains, he is a top-level master."

"Ohh… He is terrifying at this age. He is someone who deserves to be our enemy."

"But there is a variable that he doesn't know we are watching," another voice filled with admiration and hatred replied to the old man.

There were four people rattling in the darkness where nothing could be seen. Their genders, ages, and species were unknown. Then the meeting shortly came to a conclusion.

"Use this occasion to remove him," the fourth voice, which sounded like molten iron, suggested.

"How?" The young man asked.

The old man replied, "There is a maneuver called 'Let the Barbarians Fight Among Themselves' on the Eastern Continent. How about using it?"

"Let the Barbarians Fight Among Themselves?"

"Barbarians will fight the barbarians. It means we don't have to move since the enemies will take care of each other. Now, isn't it a suitable method in this situation?"

The other three voices were silent. They were reviewing the old man's proposal and considering if it was possible or not. Subsequently, the beautiful woman's voice complained toward the old man, "How much of our influence in the Central Continent will we lose if we drag them in?"

"Um, that might not be the case," the old man spoke with an eerie laugh. "The loss of the 4th Sword is big. Andras won't be able to let go of this chance to retaliate. We just need to give them a push."

"…It means to pass them information."

"Besides, the shadows are easier to deceive than the white tower." The old man's voice contained a dark hatred at the end.

The White Tower Master, Orta… Everything from his birth to his growth was unidentified. It was almost impossible to fool that monster's attention inside Meltor, although it might be possible outside of it. The old man had tried to penetrate Orta's surveillance a number of times, but he had never succeeded. So, it was humiliating for the old man. This time, the old man would break that arrogant man's nose.

"…What destination is the target heading to?" The voice like molten iron asked.

"The target's carriage is heading to Kargas. It is hard to see it as a trap because the carriage is moving on a straight path."

"Then he will likely pass through Sipoto."

"I guess he is thinking of going to Meltor through Kargas."

The four voices asked questions and made plans. Despite the four people being of different ages, genders, and species, their discussion was rational and calm.

Kargas' border city, Sipoto…

The target's location, distance to the city, and other variables were answered.

"…It isn't too late if we hurry."

"It isn't good to send anyone with less power than the 4th Sword. If Andras moves on this information, his death will be confirmed."

"We must find a way to get rid of the bodies and the byproducts."

"Yes, I will take all necessary measures."

The group had a reason for doing this. Charlotte's Necklace had been taken away from them at the underground auction house. The Orcus Company's headquarters had been devastated by an unidentified battle.

They had ignored the humiliation and hidden in the shadows. They would kill the target, Theodore Miller, to get rid of their resentment. The four warlocks hiding in the darkness of the Central Continent… The eyes of the Four Horsemen glimmered with an eerie light.

The ominous and fascinating sight resembled blood dripping down. Then the four pairs of eyes closed, and nothing remained in the darkness.

Chapter 233 – Old Books Maniac Heinrich (1)

The trading kingdom, Kargas, which was in the heart of the Central Continent, was close to being a non-aggression zone. Since ancient times, Kargas had known it was meaningless to expand with force. Its military power was just like a reed before the storm that was the Northern powers.

Andras and Meltor… Over the centuries, these two powers had repeated a war which was far beyond Kargas' capabilities. Kargas had long since been convinced that it would be impossible to confront them with force.

–Then we must survive in other ways, someone had said. –The power to control this world isn't just through violence.

Power, financial resources, intellect… all species wielded these things. With politics and the economy, this so-called society wasn't so simple. If the power gap was obvious, then there was no reason to compete with power. Fortunately, Kargas was able to become a key trading area and receive the secret assistance of other nations that didn't want to share a direct border with the Northern powers.

It was like the idiom 'without lips, one's teeth would feel the cold (fig. intimately interdependent).' Over the years, there were a few kings who had tried to gain Kargas' wealth, but no one had ever achieved it.

It was unacceptable for the other kingdoms to let what they had developed to enter into the hands of others. In a sense, Kargas had survived as a result of exploiting human psychology. If it was put nicely, they were clever. If it was put badly, they were sly and cunning. This was the way of survival for weak countries.

「 A strong person doesn't survive. It is the survivor who is strong. 」

This was a type of worldly wisdom. If the Kargas Kingdom had tried a military expansion, it would likely have been destroyed without surviving 100 years. A kingdom with a different name would be built in this place, and this process would be repeated over and over.

As a result, Kargas was successful. The evidence was that it was completely calm despite being the closest kingdom to the North.

Austen suffered from the drought which occurred on an irregular cycle, while Soldun suffered from the actions of the kingdoms it was surrounded by. Lairon, on the other hand, was a kingdom full of fanatics.

So, Kargas was safe and abundant compared to all of them. Moderately famous people settled in Kargas.

'I have been living in Sipoto for 20 years already.' The Old Books Maniac, Heinrich was similar.

After retiring, he had moved to Sipoto in Kargas. He enjoyed buying rare books and didn't plan to leave. Heinrich had completely withdrawn from political circles and thought his plan was going smoothly.

…If only his hobby hadn't brought in a new problem.

"Haha! Sir Heinrich, famous for your collection of books. Your library is truly amazing." The person who spoke had a mustache and a greasy looking face. His fat belly proved his laziness, while his expensive clothing hung in several folds.

The man was like a big toad, and Heinrich barely managed to suppress his sigh as he said, "I am undeserving of your words, Viscount Brahms."

Heinrich wanted to kick him out right away, but Brahms' status wasn't one that was easy to deal with. Brahms was a noble and senior magician of Kargas, and it was rumored that he had recently challenged the wall of the 6th Circle.

It wasn't uncommon in Meltor, but a 6th Circle magician in the Central Continent was strong. He wasn't someone an outsider could handle.

"… What book did you come for today?"

There was only one reason why Brahms would come to Heinrich. Brahms' real purpose was to steal rare magic books in the name of 'renting' them. Unsurprisingly, greed filled Brahms' eyes which resembled those of a toad. "Excuse me, I have to ask you a favor today. There are rumors that you got your hands on 'Book of Clouds'?"

"No, where did you hear…?" Heinrich stopped himself, but it was already too late.

Viscount Brahms rubbed his palms together and urged Heinrich to answer, "I don't know the source of the rumor, but can I borrow it? I swear on my name, I will reward you generously."

"Ummm…" If Heinrich believed that, he would be a goldfish, not a man. It would be fortunate if Viscount Brahms paid even half the price of the book. Moreover, he didn't want to lose a book like the Book of Clouds. Was it okay to refuse at least once?

Heinrich made a cautious look and shook his head. "I'm sorry, but it's a little difficult."

"Hah, thank yo… Hrmm? What did you say just now?" Brahms's frivolous expression turned to stone.

Simultaneously, Heinrich felt his heart grow heavier as he saw Brahms' expression. This wasn't uncommon. The magicians who came to him didn't understand why an old man, not a magician, would collect magic books. They would demand the books, stating that they were the ones who could make the best use of them.

Viscount Brahms had the same look and tone.

"Insolent…!" Viscount Brahms' thick flesh shook as he shouted wildly at Heinrich. "How dare you refuse when you don't even know the greatness of magic? I am Viscount Brahms, who will be in the higest position in the next 10 years!"

"V-Viscount."

"Hey, shut up!"

This wasn't unusual for Heinrich, but he lost sight of who Brahms was. Intense magic power filled the room and pressed down on the old man. Even though Heinrich wasn't familiar with fighting, Brahms' killing intent was instantly revealed. "It is annoying to visit here every time. I'll just erase you here."

At this moment, Heinrich regretted his past for the first time. It was because he realized that by forgoing other relationships and status, he had made himself vulnerable. There was no reason for Brahms not to kill him. Sipoto's rich old man, Old Books Maniac Heinrich, was only this much.

'Huh, it is ironic.'

He had chosen Kargas because it didn't choose the path of violence, only to get robbed and killed here. Heinrich predicted his own death and laughed hysterically.

"Laughing? You, don't you understand that you are going to die?" Brahms was furious and started chanting a spell.

There were rare books here, so he couldn't use a massive attack spell. In the first place, why would he need such a strong spell to handle an old man who didn't know how to fight? A few Magic Arrows would be enough. The blue magic power grew and turned into arrows.

Then at that moment…

Paang!

The magic arrows were dispersed, and the recoil hit Brahms. His five circles creaked, and some of his blood vessels broke, causing him to kneel on the floor. If the magic had been more than the 4th Circle, then he would be vomiting up blood.

[This garbage can't be recycled,] a cold voice rang out in the room at that very moment. [You dare to use your magic as a means to look down on others? I didn't want to do this, but I can't let you go.]

"W-Who… are you?" Aside from his rotten personality, Brahms was a 5th Circle magician and knew the meaning of this phenomenon. His magic had been intercepted by a superior magician! Moreover, a difference of more than two circles was required to block his Magic Arrow. In other words, Brahms' opponent was a magician of at least the 7th Circle.

However, Brahms didn't get to know the identity of the other person even until the end.

"You don't need to know," Theodore said, appearing behind Brahms. Then he sentenced Brahms with a grim expression, "You will no longer be a magician."

Brahms lost consciousness before he could say anything. Magic power flowed from his spine and carried it all the way to the circles in his heart. If Brahms were conscious, the two powers might've collided and he would've died trying to repel the force.

This was what Theodore intended.

However, it was annoying to kill a person who was a senior magician, and he didn't want information to leak by showing his face. Therefore, Theodore went for the next best thing—Circle Sealing.

Circle Sealing was closer to the application of magic power than a spell, and it was a way to seal the circles of a weaker magician. The Magic Society occasionally used this technique as a method of discipline. However, Theodore was a 7th Circle magician, so it was equivalent to a seal.

Kargas didn't have a 7th Circle magician, and the masters of other kingdoms weren't willing to be hostile to another master for someone they didn't know. Since someone at the same level as Theodore was required to remove it, Brahms' future as a magician was dead.

Pajik.

After Theodore finished the procedure, Brahms sprawled across the floor like a broken doll. For the time being, he would remain unconscious from the shock. This was Theodore's first time using it, but it had turned out great. He felt a strange sense of accomplishment. Theodore expected Heinrich to have a startled expression, however…

"Circle Sealing, this is the first time I've actually seen it." The old man was gazing at Theodore with interest, rather than surprise. "Besides, the capability to block the circles and the age of your voice, despite your changed appearance… Theodore Miller, Meltor's hero. I never thought I would directly meet the rumored person."

"…You are very quick to notice."

Theodore's identity was discovered as soon as he appeared. The battle of Babarino Plains had revealed that Theodore was a master, but Heinrich was very quick to put the rest of the information together and come to a conclusion. From the very beginning, Theodore had a hunch that Heinrich wasn't ordinary.

Then Heinrich shook his head at Theodore and gazed at the collapsed Brahms. "It isn't that I noticed everything. Maybe you don't realize how famous you are."

"I never wanted to be popular."

"Hoh, if you don't mind, I would like to hear more about you."

Heinrich's mood changed easily, and Theodore couldn't help laughing. He didn't know their meeting would turn out like this. If he had been a few minutes later, Heinrich would be dead. This was truly lucky.

"Then I should greet you since we are reunited."

'Reunited?' Heinrich thought.

Before the bewildered Heinrich, Theodore raised a hand to his face. It was to reproduce the appearance he had used as a disguise the last time he had been in Sipoto. Heinrich's fearsome intuition would notice it without needing an explanation.

Indeed, as Theodore thought, Heinrich's eyes widened. "…Huh, d-don't tell me?"

"Yes, your thinking is correct." Theodore was satisfied with Heinrich's reaction and nodded. "Thank you for your actions at the underground auction house, Sir Heinrich."

Chapter 234 – Old Books Maniac Heinrich (2)

Heinrich was surprised by the unexpected situation, but he decided to get rid of Brahms first before talking.

The shock Brahms suffered from Circle Sealing was too great, so he was eventually dragged and thrown out like garbage onto the streets of Sipoto. Perhaps it was better that he had lost consciousness. Now that Brahms wasn't a magician anymore, his position would obviously collapse.

Anyway, that wasn't any of Theodore and Heinrich's business.

Clink. A steaming cup of tea was placed in front of Theodore. His nose was hit with the scent of herbal tea. After Heinrich placed two cups of handmade tea on the table, they started talking in earnest.

"So, what brings you to find this old man?"

In the past, Heinrich had been a member of a royal court, but few people knew this. Furthermore, Heinrich was a person who had cut off all his connections. This meant he didn't have the strength to do favors for anyone.

If so, there was only one reason why Theodore would come to see him. Theodore also knew this fact and spoke straight away, "You might've already guessed, but I have a great interest in Sir Heinrich's collection."

"That reminds me, you bought books at the underground auction." Thinking about it again, Heinrich found it a little strange.

Be it an original copy or duplicate, magic books could be found in Meltor. Nevertheless, Theodore had used a lot of money to buy the books at auction. Was Theodore a type of collector? Or was this purely out of interest?

Heinrich's elderly eyes gazed at Theodore with curiosity and caution. However, Heinrich couldn't figure out the correct answer without knowing about the existence of Gluttony. Heinrich spoke before posing a question, "I would like to say something first."

Theodore didn't seem like Brahms, but Heinrich's preconceived notions had accumulated over many years.

"You might be acting gracious, but will you demand a book for my life?"

"Huh? I have no intention of doing that."

"You can be honest. If you want anything from my library, you can just take it."

Theodore immediately denied it, but Heinrich didn't believe him. No, the old man was already tired. He didn't know that his hobby of collecting books as a scholar would cause him to be harassed like this.

Heinrich was tired of magicians coming to demands books, as well as being threatened with death in broad daylight. If Theodore asked for a book now, he was just going to hand it over. However, Theodore wasn't such a shameful person.

"How can a magician not respect someone who worships wisdom? If I was going to be so brazen, I would've hit the pig after he killed you."

"This…"

It was true. As Theodore spoke to him in a calm voice, Heinrich was speechless. He was a person who didn't know about fighting. The memory of being threatened a short time ago still filled his body.

Theodore spoke calmly, "You yielded a few books to me at the auction house, so I was thinking of paying you back today. If it hadn't been for that day, this reunion would be uncertain."

Heinrich's face turned red as he regained his composure. Had he become too whiny or cynical in his old age? Heinrich gave a deep bow of apology from his seat. "Cough, my words were too shameless. Please think of it as an old man's nonsense."

"I didn't hear anything." Theodore shrugged while taking a sip of tea, before speaking again. "Let's return to the main point. Sir Heinrich, I know that you are interested in books in many fields."

"Yes, my curiosity doesn't stop at this age. I only have money, so my hobby is reading interesting books."

"So, are you interested in books from the East?"

"Hrmm?" Heinrich's eyes opened wider at the mention of the East. The existence of the East had been known for a long time, but it still wasn't easy to go beyond the ocean. For this reason, the culture of the East wasn't often transmitted to the West.

Heinrich tried to regain his composure, but it had already long been revealed to Theodore. The old man coughed a few times before replying, "Hmm, it does interest me, but… it is hard to get a properly translated book. The interpretation of the same words is different, and there are many dialects that aren't understood…"

"Please read this once before answering." Theodore reacted like he understood and pulled out a magic book. It was one of the books he had translated while staying with the Baek Family.

The original had already been eaten, but the translations he had written during the process of increasing his understanding were still intact. This book was the handcrafted interpretation of Theodore, who had been given the memories and language skills of Lee Yoonsung. The result couldn't be compared to those of a shabby translator.

Heinrich received the book with a strange expression. However, he soon forgot to blink as he indulged in the contents.

'Good. It is as I thought.' Theodore smiled darkly as he sensed that this was a success.

The two people didn't talk again until the contents of the cups cooled.

* * *

An hour passed by.

"P-Please excuse me. This old man was too rude to my guest…" Heinrich read to the middle of the book and only realized the situation after he reached a portion he couldn't understand.

This guest… Wasn't he currently the most well-known hero on the continent? Yet Heinrich hadn't maintained decorum and was too rude. If Theodore's mood had turned sour, then Heinrich wouldn't be able to say anything.

However, Theodore shook his head with a bright expression. "No. This was what I asked for. Rather, how are the translations?"

"Ohh, these translations? They are amazing!" Heinrich praised before carefully lifting the magic book. It was the type of behavior seen from those who sincerely loved books. "I don't know which famous scholar translated this book, but they understand Chinese very well. I can almost believe he is a local. To be able to translate the proverbs, dialects, and strange adjectives… It is easy to understand, even for a person who doesn't know much about magic."

Theodore was embarrassed by the praise and scratched his nose. Heinrich's eyes widened as he noticed the reaction. Surely this young master hadn't mastered the language and knowledge from beyond the sea…? Theodore read the question in Heinrich's gaze and nodded. "Yes, your thinking is correct."

"Oh, my god. I don't know how many times I can be surprised today!"

Theodore understood Heinrich's astonishment.

The structure of the Chinese language was fundamentally different from the common language of the West Continent. It would take a long period of time, research, and talent to smoothly compensate for the difference. This wasn't a field which could be fully mastered by someone who was less than 30 years old.

How could Theodore have broken down the boundaries of both languages and translated the professional knowledge without any errors? It was beyond the level of some Eastern scholars in academia. Theodore wouldn't have been capable of it if it wasn't for Lee Yoonsung.

"I have one more thing to say." Theodore raised 10 fingers in front of the surprised Heinrich. "I have dozens of similar books."

"Hoh." Heinrich smiled as he grasped Theodore's intentions. "Do you want an exchange with my collection?"

"That's right."

"Indeed, it isn't bad for me. Changing old books for new ones. It is really tempting." Heinrich gestured for Theodore to follow.

Then Heinrich picked up a book at the corner of the bookshelf. The massive bookcase creaked as it slid open, revealing a secret space inside. This was the real study of Sipoto's Old Books Maniac.

"It is a little shabby, but the books I've put here can't be easily seen by others," Heinrich started to explain as he entered the secret library. Each book was worth at least 100 gold, so it was obvious why they couldn't be shown to others.

There was a signed book of poetry by a legendary bard, as well as original books. The Book of Clouds, which Viscount Brahms had wanted, was such a book.

"Sir Theodore should know this."

Theodore nodded as he looked at the magic book that Heinrich had taken out. It had a white cover made of unknown material.

'The Book of Clouds… It is clearly a book left by a previous white tower master.'

Space magic was famous due to Orta, but the root of the white tower was wind magic. Among them, there had been a white tower master who reached the peak of weather magic and could manipulate climate.

"There is an anecdote about snow appearing in the middle of the desert, or dozens of kilometers of coastline being dried out. This magic book contains such wisdom. It is no wonder that someone like Brahms desired it."

"I heard that a duplicate copy of it doesn't exist?"

"That's right. For some reason, duplication magic doesn't work on this magic book. So, there are some people who think that the Book of Clouds is a grimoire." Theodore laughed at the thoughts of the foolish people as he looked down at the Book of Clouds.

Was it courage or ignorance? Anyone who had seen a true grimoire wouldn't use its name so easily. Theodore had looked at the ominous bottomless hell, so he knew it better than anyone.

'Appraisal.'

Theodore examined the cover of the book and naturally placed his left hand on it.

[Book of Clouds]

[-This book explains the laws of climate, atmospheric currents, and weather phenomenon. The author, who was once well-known as a white tower master of Meltor, retired and wandered around the continent to observe the weather. After decades of research, he reached a point where he could reproduce the phenomena magically.

* This magic book is rated 'Precious.'

* When consumed, affinity to the 'wind' attribute will increase greatly.

* When consumed, knowledge of 'meteorology��� will be acquired.

* Clues to the Supercell magic have been recorded. You must be at least the 8th Circle to acquire this spell, or your wind attribute must be at the maximum. The conditions required are high.]

There was a saying about a pearl necklace around a pig's neck, but this was more like a diamond than a pearl. The book's difficulty and depth of wisdom were similar to space magic. Theodore was able to know this just from Appraisal and flipping through a few pages.

'…Excellent. It was worth it coming to Sipoto.'

Of course, not all the books would be like the Book of Clouds. Nevertheless, Theodore couldn't help but smile. He was someone who had spent his youth in the library and had then become more aware after consuming hundreds of books for Gluttony.

This was Heinrich's secret library… and the bookshelves lined up all over the study were giving off a delicious smell.

"Sir Heinrich," Theodore pointed to the Book of Clouds and opened his mouth, "Let's start with this one."

Chapter 235 – Old Books Maniac Heinrich (3)

The transaction between the two bibliophiles reached a satisfactory end.

One was a magician, and the other a scholar. There were many differences in their jobs, but their desire for new knowledge was the same.

Regardless of how expensive they were, the balance between 'books which had been read' and 'new books' tilted toward the latter. They were books which hadn't been seen in Kargas, and there was no doubt that the translations of the books were perfect.

Starting from the Book of Clouds, dozens of books were traded.

It was a barter which was based on thoroughly subjective standards, completely disregarding financial standards. If there were a merchant in this place, they would've squeezed their own head.

Every time one exchange was made, one side lost money. The amount lost was several hundred gold. Nevertheless, the two people made the exchange without any hesitation. There was an unspoken consensus that this was okay.

'This grandfather, isn't he a good match for me?'

'It is rare for there to be a young man like this…'

Theodore and Heinrich felt a sense of kinship with each other. They were willing to throw away money if it was a book they wanted. They craved knowledge from the bundle of old papers because their spirits couldn't be satisfied with their current knowledge.

This kinship crossed the age difference of almost 50 years, and they spoke like they had known each other for a long time.

"Sir Theodore."

In the end, the sun headed to the west, and the blue sky became dark. After a few hours, the two men moved from the secret library to the reception room.

Heinrich felt a deep affinity with Theodore and offered an unprecedented proposal, "If you don't mind, would you like to stay overnight? I live alone except for the servants, so there are quite a few rooms left. It should be enough for a short stay."

"Well, I haven't found accommodations yet."

Due to his circumstances, Theodore tried not to reveal himself as much as possible. Therefore, it was hard to find a good place to stay at sunset. In that case, it would be better for Theodore to accept Heinrich's offer. "I will accept your goodwill, Sir Heinrich."

"Haha! I am honored to have a 'hero' stay overnight. Tell me if you need anything." Heinrich gave a laugh and clapped his hands. Then a maid waiting outside entered, and Heinrich told her, "This is a precious guest. Please guide him to the room on the third floor and make sure he doesn't feel uncomfortable."

"Yes, I will do so."

"Ah, what do you want to do for dinner?"

Theodore didn't have a great obsession with food, so he just ordered lightly, "I'll have a simple meal in the bedroom. I spent a few days in the carriage, so I just want to rest."

"Oh, I was being rude again."

"No, I also had a great time."

The two people finished their goodbyes and got up from their seats. Then the maid naturally turned around. Theodore followed her into the corridor, where she spoke with a polite voice and attitude, "I will guide you to your bedroom. Should I move your carriage to the stables?"

"Ah, please do so."

"By the way, where is the driver? I will also give him a room."

"That's okay. He has already left and will come back to the mansion tomorrow."

"Yes, then I will have the carriage put away."

Heinrich's residence was rather large, but it was nothing compared to the royal palace and magic tower which Theodore was familiar with. Shortly after speaking a few words with the maid, he was able to arrive at the bedroom.

"Then I will go now. Please pull the string from the ceiling when there is a problem," the maid said and closed the door.

Theodore immediately threw himself onto the bed once he was alone. It was because the carriage ride had been quite severe.

The shortest distance meant crossing over a mountainous road, not a paved road. No matter how good the carriage was, the wheels would jolt when they hit something. He had barely slept since it had been a few days' worth of this. Moreover, he had motion sickness and dizziness as well.

However, the result made it all worthwhile.

"Even so, I didn't think I would see the Book of Clouds."

In fact, Theodore had seen the Book of Clouds in the past.

There was no copy of it, but a manuscript was present in the white tower. The symbols and drawings were too difficult, and there were many passwords hidden in the words to show that other manuscripts were false. At that time, Theodore hadn't been able to understand half the contents. Then what about now?

'Okay, I should try again.'

He would set the goal of reaching 98% understanding by the time he reached Meltor. Theodore made a pledge and opened the book. 'I can do it somehow if I don't give up!'

Then exactly 30 minutes later…

"What?"

He remembered it clearly. There had been high-level formulas and descriptions, as well as a magic power control which hadn't allowed even a single leak. This had been close to the level of obsessive-compulsiveness, so it hadn't been easy for Theodore to understand despite being in the 7th Circle.

However, Theodore opened and closed the Book of Clouds several times with confused eyes. It wasn't because it was too difficult, but because it was the opposite.

"Why is it so easy?"

His understanding had originally been at 32%, and it was now already up to 97%. He just needed to read it once or twice more to go over 98%. It was a great success, but Theodore felt no sense of accomplishment. He had spent less than half a day reading and his understanding was already at 97%? It was a phenomenon that was hard to understand.

The unfamiliar notions came easily to him, and the difficult formulas felt like simple arithmetic operations. It was like he received knowledge from the gods—

'Wait a minute, the gods?'

At that moment, Theodore recalled Aiolos' Pocket which contained the divinity of the wind. What if it raised not only his affinity with wind but his comprehension of magic as well? It was just an uncertain hypothesis, but it wasn't a story without credibility.

Apart from talent, magicians had aptitudes to certain magic attributes. Theodore originally had little wind magic aptitude, but it was now sufficient with Aiolos' Pocket. However, Theodore shook his head and reached out his hand.

'It is still just a hypothesis, no matter how I think about it. It would be faster to ask the party involved.'

The criteria to eat a book was 95% understanding, and he had already reached that standard with the Book of Clouds. Originally, Theodore would've anticipated it, but now he was filled with deep suspicion.

"Eat."

–You have brought me good quality food.

Gluttony had been awake from the moment it felt the Book of Clouds, so now it reached out its tongue.

Gulp.

The magic book, which had only two copies in the continent, disappeared.

['Book of Clouds' has been consumed. Your understanding is very high.]

[Proficiency in wind magic has increased. The wind attribute affinity has reached its limit. In compensation, the level of skill proficiency will rise even further.]

[You have acquired knowledge related to 'meteorology.']

[An original copy has been consumed. Synchro rate will be checked with object name 'Heathcliff'…It is judged to be a fine rate. Heathcliff has accepted your request. At his discretion, Heathcliff has approved the spiritual connection.]

Theodore was laying in bed when his eyes darkened. His mind couldn't withstand the separation of his consciousness and rejected it by making him faint. In retrospect, it had been a long time since he had experienced Synchro. The authors of the recent original copies he had eaten were monsters, and they had refused the Synchro.

Surely a former tower master wasn't common?

Theodore laughed a little bit as his consciousness disappeared.

* * *

He didn't know when precisely his consciousness returned. Theodore opened his eyes and saw the landscape of the sky.

When he saw that he was lying on clouds, Theodore realized that this space was someone else's imagery. Were clouds nothing more than mass of water vapor, or were they filled with hopes and dreams?

At that time, a loud voice spoke out from behind Theodore, "I understand your appreciation, but you are acting a bit impolite, my junior."

Theodore turned around at the voice and saw a middle-aged man in a white robe. Once Synchro was established, one's surface thoughts could be read. Theodore was reminded of what he had forgotten and hurriedly bowed apologetically. "I'm sorry."

"Well, it's okay. Anyway, I am a dead man, and you are a magician of the magic tower. You don't need to be so formal."

"It is nothing, Senior."

Theodore looked at the senior before him.

Heathcliff had been a white tower master. He had been a great magician of the 8th circle when he'd still been alive, and his reputation continued on to this day. Heathcliff might've left the magic towers, but he was still one of the great masters whom Meltor was proud of.

However, Heathcliff just chuckled as Theodore said this and waved his hands. "You… Aren't you quite eloquent? I had no idea that I would hear such words after my death. I know that glory is useless, but it feels better than I thought."

According to rumors, Heathcliff had been famous as a playboy. He scratched his head like he wasn't accustomed to such praise and sat next to Theodore. Unlike the closed-off Orta with his mask and cold atmosphere, Heathcliff seemed like the type to get close to the first person he saw.

"Okay! Rejoice, Junior. I will give you three answers."

"Huh?"

"I know your first question, and I will answer it."

Theodore recalled his thoughts from before he ate the Book of Clouds and stared at Heathcliff. He was doubtful, but Heathcliff really knew the answer.

Heathcliff began the explanation by raising his fingers with a cheerful expression, "As you know, divine power and magic reject each other, so you don't know what effect divine power has. Isn't that right?"

"…Yes, that's right."

"I will say something before explaining. Divinity is a form of the circles and is one of the final destinations that magic can reach. It is a 'power' that can exert maximum strength in the material world."

Deities were the incarnations of this material world. Their power to defend the world was so great that they repelled the demons who invaded from outer space. Their traces had disappeared when the Age of Mythology ended, but their impact lasted for thousands of years. Magic imitated that power.

"It is inferior, but a magician's circles are like the deities in that they control the power of the material world. It is just that the scope and authority fall far behind. If I compare it to the power that an 8th Circle magician can exert, the gap is at least 3,000 times greater."

"3,000 times…"

"I'm not exaggerating, Junior. Even the dragon's heart, which is far superior to circles, is 10 times less powerful than divinity. Divinity is literally the supreme authority that rules the material world." Heathcliff looked at Theodore with bright green eyes. "And you have two divinities. Is it called Aiolos? The god of wind… It is an incomplete divinity, but it still makes the 8th Circle look like a small trick. Once you reach the 9th Circle, you should be able to see through it, from the principles to the application."

Then the master of wind and the previous white tower master stopped speaking.

"Now, so let's move on to the second thing. Is your heart ready?"

"…What are you saying?" Theodore asked with uneasily when he saw Heathcliff's strange expression.

What was Theodore going to be told? Theodore endured patiently to the end, as Heathcliff finally opened his mouth.

"You… Aren't you doing to die soon?"

Chapter 236 – Old Books Maniac Heinrich (4)

Theodore's face became dazed at Heathcliff's words. Heathcliff recognized that as an expression of disbelief but didn't know how to explain what he'd said.

Perhaps he was unfamiliar with teaching others.

"I'll go back to the story. I went too far forward." Where should he begin? Heathcliff touched his chin and revealed his knowledge. "Since ancient times, meteorology was a scene that looked into the future. The primitive spells were used to determine how much crops could grow that year. Finding out the weather in advance was like predicting where a leaf would fall. The science alone couldn't be perfect."

"Is this the realm of seeing the future?"

"You understand quickly. Yes, it is a type of foresight. In ancient times, the priests of each tribe were responsible for this."

There had been no means more effective in raising the authority of a god than to predict the future. It had opened the path to escape from natural disasters and gave people prosperity.

During a time when civilization had yet to mature, the priests had always assumed the position of a god. As such, the weather had been believed to be a phenomenon closely related to divinity.

As Heathcliff was a magician who had reached a higher level than anyone else in climate manipulation, his eyes also naturally looked into the future.

"I started to see it when I finished my 7th Circle. Something fuzzy that I called 'clouds'… So, it turned into real clouds. Cirrocumulus cloud, stratocumulus cloud, nimbostratus cloud, cumulonimbus… Every time I make a dangerous choice, it becomes dark? That is how I know there's danger."

If he were to face a strong enemy, he would see clouds with lightning. If the peaceful days were to continue, he would be comfortably surrounded by white cotton clouds. By the time he reached the 8th circle, he had become capable of seeing disasters in distant kingdoms.

It had been around that time that the name of the storm magician, Heathcliff, had started to gain popularity abroad. He had saved a village about to be washed away by a flood, and he had also predicted the eruption of a dormant volcano.

Heathcliff, the author of the Book of Clouds, gave a monologue as he recalled the past. "Well, I ended up dying in the middle of nowhere."

Theodore was amazed by Heathcliff's words and hurriedly asked, "It can't be…! Didn't you see it?"

"Maybe, maybe not. I don't know what happened after I died. Now, it is your turn," Heathcliff said as he looked Theodore up and down. Then he spoke in an admiring voice, "Wow, this enemy is terrible. Incredibly strong. Probably stronger than I had been during my lifetime…? What type of person are you to have such monsters as enemies at this age?"

"This isn't a quest."

From the Orcus Company, that Theodore had unintentionally provoked, to Andras who had lost three swords as well as the Lairon Kingdom, that had participated in the civil war… There were many strong people who wanted to kill Theodore.

'But the enemy is greater than I imagined.' Someone equivalent to an 8th Circle magician was going to attack him?

If Theodore thought about it, there were only a few possibilities.

It was either one of the empire's first three swords or the secret of the black magic organization. He didn't think so, but it might be someone from the Lairon Kingdom.

Heathcliff watched as a deep look appeared in Theodore's eyes. Then he said, "Hrmm? It seems like you have your own ideas. You should be careful though. The one who will threaten you is a monster that can't be measured with common sense."

"Yes, I will keep that in mind."

"Then my advice will end here. Okay, now I will move onto my magic. Then it is the third one."

Theodore's eyes brightened the moment the topic changed to Heathcliff's magic. Was it due to Gluttony or his own innate tendencies? Theodore's interest was stimulated whenever it came to magic. How much of that 'storm' magic could he receive? Wasn't it also from Heathcliff himself? It was a story for any magician, not just Theodore.

"You… Are you interested in my Supercell?"

"Yes," Theodore replied without any hesitation.

"The final form of Thunderstorm is an achievement that downgrades weather phenomena like natural disasters. It is a magic that no one can reproduce. It is my Sorcery. So, of course, no one can do it."

In his prime, Heathcliff had been able to summon a storm with one hand or cause a lightning bolt with one word. He had been a walking natural disaster, with the nickname of 'Storm.'

Supercell was the extreme magic that Heathcliff had reached in his last years. With it, he had been able to control meteorological phenomena. If Theodore could obtain it, then he might have a chance.

"Hrmm, thank you for the praise." Heathcliff shrugged while scratching his nose. "But I am sorry. In your current state, the magic will just be a burden on your circles. You have just used one great magic, so you shouldn't receive another great magic."

"Circle Overload… It is more annoying than I thought."

"It is better if you think of it as growing pains. But if I subtract Supercell, it should be fine to transfer everything else."

Then Heathcliff pointed his hands at Theodore. However, Theodore didn't feel any evil intentions from this gesture. Otherwise, he would've been ready for battle. Then several notifications entered Theodore's ears successively.

[Object name 'Heathcliff' has requested the transfer of knowledge. Analyzing the details of this request… ]

[Request from object name 'Heathcliff' has been approved.]

[The 'Meteorology' skill will be adjusted to your level of proficiency.]

[The skill 'Cloud Magic' has been learned. The skill experience of 'Cloud Magic' has increased due to unknown intervention. Please note that errors might occur.]

['Aiolos' divinity' has responded. The increase in proficiency will be doubled.]

Simultaneously, Theodore shook where he was sitting. "Kuk!"

The massive amount of information that suddenly poured into his brain gave him an intense wave of dizziness and headaches. Theodore would have fainted if he hadn't experienced something like it before.

The magic knowledge of the 8th Circle magician, Heathcliff, was deep and vast. At least, there was no one in this modern age who could match him when it came to wind magic.

Theodore nowrealized how clouds moved. He also realized how thunderbolts were born and why they came down to the ground. He even knew why wind was drawn to the surface layer of the sea.

The information that Theodore accepted would probably go beyond 10 thick encyclopedias.

He now knew how the wind passing by his skin moved and why the clouds were floating above his head. It was Weather Control that people in this modern time didn't know how to use.

'A-Amazing…! This is why Senior Heathcliff wandered through the entire continent.' Theodore admired the knowledge through his throbbing skull. 'Seeing it directly… He directly observed and reconfigured the weather information of the entire continent to complete Cloud Magic. It would've taken 5 years, 10 years…'

Heathcliff's absence from the Meltor Kingdom would've been very painful, but Heathcliff had been the epitome of a magician. He had traveled for decades to find the truth. He had truly been a great and monstrous magician.

Theodore felt reverence for him and bowed deeply to Heathcliff. "Thank you for your generosity, Senior."

"Ah, don't be so stiff. Isn't it the duty of a magic tower magician to transfer knowledge to others? It is unfortunate that you're not a magician of the white tower, but I hope that you can take all of my knowledge next time."

"Yes, I will work diligently."

It didn't end with just absorbing this knowledge. According to the accepted knowledge, Supercell was the peak of climate magic. It was clear that Theodore wouldn't be able to get any benefits if he didn't fully embody the knowledge and magic he had just acquired.

Heathcliff liked Theodore's modest words and knocked against his shoulder. "Then I will tell you my quest at the next opportunity. Until then, survive well and teach your juniors."

Heathcliff felt sorry that he couldn't teach them personally as he waved his short staff. Then the whole world started to turn black. It was like a signal. Synchro was disconnected, and Theodore gazed at Heathcliff as he returned to reality. Feeling grateful, Theodore smiled until the end.

The Book of Cloud's Synchro was over.

* * *

"Phew."

Theodore opened his eyes in bed and felt a sense of fulfillment. It took him 30 seconds after his encounter with Heathcliff to summarize the Cloud Magic given to him. He took deep breaths and decided to think about his approaching threat.

'Isn't this my second prediction of death?'

The first time had a time limit, while this one depended on the conditions.

"Moreover, it's someone stronger than Heathcliff… There are few such monsters on the entire continent."

Heathcliff might've specialized in one type of magic, but he had been an 8th Circle magician. He had been incomparable to some of the sword masters that Theodore had dealt with. If so, let's assume Veronica was the one attacking him. Let's imagine a monster whose destructive power surpassed Pan Helliones, whose speed was beyond Randolph, and who also had innumerable combat experience…

How would Theodore be able to survive, rather than win? The answer was simple.

"I shouldn't fight."

His death would be confirmed the moment the fight was established. It was a cold conclusion, but Theodore accepted it. In fact, it was the reason he had left Soldun in a hurry. Since his power had been revealed, an assassin would be a monster who could kill Theodore in his best state. The Soldun Kingdom was too weak to prevent the attack of such a being.

He thought it would be safer to return quickly before his movements were revealed.

"…It is too quick, no matter how I think about it. They shouldn't be able to catch up with me at this point unless they have been following my actions since Soldun."

His logic and intuition were shouting in one voice that this situation wasn't a coincidence. It was caused by someone.

'Murder by proxy.'

This was the phrase which popped up from Lee Yoonsung's memory. It was a warning from his super sensitivity, and it was a logical conclusion. Anyway, it didn't matter.

"Gluttony."

–Um.

He had made a decision based on Heathcliff's memory. It was foolishness to oppose natural disasters. Instead, it was best to find a way to reduce the damage if a typhoon hit, or to stay away if a volcano exploded.

Likewise, it was the same for this fight. The power of his enemy was close to a natural disaster, and his coping method was no different.

Then he said to his left hand, "Open the Library."

If even a divinity was stored in Gluttony's stomach, then it meant there would also be things capable of causing a natural disaster.

Chapter 237 – Second (1)

The day after arriving in Sipoto, Theodore had breakfast with Heinrich and said goodbye.

Heinrich couldn't hide his confusion as he asked if there was a problem, but Theodore just shook his head with a smile. Setting aside their age difference, it was easy for Theodore to talk to Heinrich.

If it wasn't for Heathcliff's prophecy, Theodore would've stayed for three or four more days.

Heinrich seemed to read this in Theodore's face and sighed with disappointment. He would've enjoyed a conversation with Theodore while reading books all day long, but an old man couldn't keep the young here.

"Huh, you are only staying one night… If I had known this, I would've stayed awake talking last night."

"My heart wanted to, but my body didn't obey. I'm afraid I'll have to take a rain check."

Then Heinrich laughed playfully. "Do you want new books?"

Theodore understood that Heinrich was half joking and half serious. "Huh? Ha, hahaha! Sir Heinrich hit the nail on the head. That passion would've been great if you walked on the path of a magician."

"Hearing such a compliment from the hero of Meltor, this old man's lungs won't survive. Hahaha!"

The two people's hearts met on the same page for a while before they got up.

The servants cleaned up the table, while Heinrich and Theodore walked along the hallway toward the main entrance. This encounter with the young hero who might leave his name in the history books… It was interesting for Heinrich to have met a hero who was interested in knowledge.

They left the mansion and headed outside. Theodore looked at the carriage in front of the main gate before pausing and turning to Heinrich.

"Then Sir Heinrich, take this."

"Hrmm?"

It was an iron piece engraved with two horses. The piece was high-quality iron with few impurities. Obviously, it wasn't an ordinary iron piece. Heinrich had lived for at least 20 years in Kargas, so he recognized the iron piece at first glance.

"A badge of the Polonell Company."

"Yes, that's right."

"Why are you giving it to me?"

Theodore nodded and gave a brief explanation, "I know this is something that can't be traded. But it proves my identity. If Viscount Brahms from yesterday or someone else makes a fuss, please go to Bear in the Polonell Company and tell him my name. Then he will help you."

"…You are too mature for your age. Despite my reluctance, I will accept your consideration." The emotions in Heinrich's eyes deepened as he received the Polonell badge. It was easy to overpower or defeat others with force. However, it was rare to pay attention to the consequences that happened afterward. In this turbulent age, Theodore was truly a hero.

Feeling a slight reverence toward Theodore, Heinrich bowed again and thanked Theodore for his goodwill.

After that, Theodore got on his carriage. "Let's go."

The knight sitting in the driver's seat wielded the reins firmly. It wasn't done with any sophisticated technique, but it was enough to move the horses.

Hiiiing!

The two horses ran forward, and the carriage soon left Heinrich's residence. The border city had well-maintained roads, so the carriage's traveling speed wasn't greatly reduced in the city. Theodore sat in the occasionally shaky carriage and regretted the farewell before starting to worry.

'The unknown enemy… In what way will he come?'

After his numerous combat experiences, Theodore had learned the importance of the first strike. So, he couldn't help worrying. If he lost control in a situation where he was already lacking, that would be the end.

He wouldn't be able to make a preemptive strike against an enemy who might appear anywhere, so he had to prepare countermeasures. If the person had great destructive power like Pan Helliones, Theodore could use ranged attacks. If they were exceptional in surprise attacks like Hyde, then Theodore could use his sensitivity.

He had to think of all the possibilities. As Theodore remained silent, the carriage continued moving northwards beyond the boundaries of Sipoto, drawing tracks through the wilderness. The chill on Theodore's neck signaled that the threat was getting closer. It was a feeling he had felt several times before, but this time it was terrible.

'…Indeed, it is a sure death.'

It was similar to what he'd felt when he had still been immature and faced Pride with Ellenoa behind him. This would be an absolute death which couldn't be turned on its tables, even if he went beyond his limits.

If victory or defeat was determined with resolve, then even a mouse could kill a lion. However, that didn't work in reality. Before an overwhelming gap of power, a person's attitude was worthless. The weak would just be trampled on.

Therefore, Theodore's condition for victory was to just survive. He needed to leap over the opponent's overwhelming power. As such, he had already made preparations last night.

"Bring it on at any time."

His blue eyes shone as he prepared to jump over any adversity.

* * *

Despite Theodore's preparations, the assailant revealed himself in front of the carriage without trying for an ambush.

Kkiiiiik….

The moment that the driver pulled the reins and the carriage stopped, Theodore quickly jumped out of the carriage. It was because his sensitivity had warned him of the enemy's appearance in advance.

By the time landed on the ground, his circles were already prepared to fight.

"…This." Nevertheless, Theodore was one beat late.

"Hi," a drowsy voice rang out, "Theodore Miller?"

The assailant had dark brown hair and half-closed eyes. His patchy beard gave him a shabby appearance. He would've looked like a homeless person if it wasn't for the sword at his waist. His clothes were decent, but that didn't mean much.

"…If I am, who are you?" Theodore didn't hide his vigilance as he questioned the man.

"Number 2," an absurd reply was given, "Zest Speitem."

At that moment, Theodore stiffened. If Veronica and Blundell represented Meltor's power, then the 1st and 2nd Swords represented Andras' power. Most people didn't know their faces, and there was little known about how they fought because most of their opponents had been killed.

Zest, the person who had overwhelmed Sword Master Randolph with one blow, was now appearing before Theodore.

'Really.'

Zest's appearance didn't matter. The chill that Theodore felt proved the authenticity of his remark. Even if this man wasn't truly the 2nd Sword, his skill was comparable.

"Hehe." Sword Demon Zest looked at Theodore with blank eyes. Then he made a strange sound as he looked at the knight next to Theodore. As Zest's eyes blurred, the passing wind stopped like it had been cut by a blade. It was a phenomenon which couldn't be understood with common sense, but it clearly happened.

'A human stopping the wind with his will…? What a monster.' The nervous Theodore's breathing became rough.

Then Zest suddenly nodded at the knight. "Hey, who is this guy? He gives off a vaguely familiar feeling."

"…Why should I answer?"

"It doesn't matter. Well, this might be good."

Sururung, the sword Zest drew cried out, and he patted the sword politely. His languid expression disappeared, and Zest Speitem's voice became clearer, "Thanks to you, I was able to go outside. I am a little sorry to kill you. So―"

Theodore's breathing quickened as he became tense like a rubber band.

Kaaang!

Suddenly, sparks flew as two swords collided with each other.

"Keok!" Theodore hurriedly retreated backward as the shockwave from the collision of the two swords hit him in the chest. He coughed a few times, but he couldn't hide his astonishment.

'I didn't see it at all? No, it isn't in the dimension of fast or slow…'

This was a blow which couldn't be defined with the concept of speed. Perhaps Randolph had also been beaten by this sword. It was an attacked which surpassed recognition. Had Zest planned a surprise attack from the front? Theodore's head would've been cut off if it wasn't for the driver.

"Eh?" Zest tilted his head with sincere confusion. "My sword was stopped? How?"

Of course, Theodore naturally knew the answer. The man, who had been called Lloyd during his life, had the Aura Ability 'Pathfinder' engraved on his body after being turned into a machine.

Pathfinder was the ability to read the right 'path.' However, rather than rejoicing at the enemy's attack being stopped, Theodore was surprised to realize one fact.

'He blocked the attack, but there was no interval to attack back!'

This was essentially a fight. The winner would be the one who could read ahead to attack or defend. In such an environment, Pathfinder was a very powerful ability. If the actions of the opponent were known one or two beats ahead, then that was enough to make a counter. In fact, Lloyd had taken down several sword masters that way.

Yet he was barely able to block this attack!

On the other hand, Zest was intrigued. "This is a fun toy. How many times can it endure?"

Zest figured out that the opponent wasn't human and raised his sword.

'I can't miss it this time!' As Theodore concentrated, the sword disappeared again.

Kakang! The first strike couldn't be denied. There was no precursor as it cut deep into Gladio's right wrist. The body of an automaton was different from that of humans, but half of its function was lost when it was damaged.

Jeeeong! The second strike was a piercing blow. Theodore still couldn't see it at all. Gladio tried to defend but was pushed back by the power behind the sword, which caused serious damage to Gladio's internal organs.

Kakakang! The stab turned into a slash. The sword was moving at a pace which already surpassed the domain of human cognition. Even a master level person wouldn't be able to tell what had happened.

Gladio blocked the sword with his left hand, but half of it was cut off. This was the end. Even an automaton couldn't maintain its combat ability in this state. The time it took Gladio to be defeated was two seconds. Given that there was no big difference between Lloyd's power in life and in death, Zest Speitem had shattered one of the Seven Swords in just two seconds.

A sword master's pure power was high, but this was pure skill.

"Reverse summoning," Theodore called out, and Gladio disappeared into its bracelet. It would take time and a lot of resources to fully recover from that damage. Clearly, it was safe to say he couldn't use Gladio for a while.

However, thanks to Gladio, Theodore managed to gain some time.

'As long as I can't recognize it, the power is unbeatable. It is suicide to fight in close proximity.'

Theodore's seven circles rotated as he gathered his strength, while Zest smiled. Zest's face was relaxed as if he could kill Theodore at any time. "It is a fairly well-made toy, but in the end, it is just entertainment. Will the owner be more than that?"

Theodore gulped down the horror as he gritted his teeth and clenched his fists. "You will regret that you didn't kill me just now."

Chapter 238 – Second (2)

Unlike his aggressive answer, Theodore was extremely nervous right now. He had expected someone with Veronica-level strength would emerge, but he hadn't expected that he wouldn't be able to see the combat capabilities of a sword demon.

If Lee Yoonsung's memory was correct, this was a sword ring. Despite retreating 30 meters in two seconds, Theodore was convinced that he wasn't out of the sword's range. He just noticed it, but he had already stopped breathing.

Theodore realized that he could lose his head if there was even a small gap between his inhale and exhale. He currently had an unprecedentedly extremely sharp sensitivity, but the time he needed to maintain this confrontation was around 20 seconds more. If he lost his concentration for even a moment, he would die.

'I need to catch up with that speed somehow.'

Theodore's breather had only lasted three seconds, but thanks to Gladio's sacrifice, Theodore managed to get a clue.

Zest's sword was certainly quick, but the interval between the strikes wasn't completely zero. It was just such a short gap that it was impossible to catch with human senses. Gladio had been able to respond by reading the orbit of the sword.

If Theodore wanted to catch up with this speed, he needed reflexes at the level of the ancient species, Ulfheðnar, that Superbia had transformed into. How could Theodore reproduce such reflexes?

'… I can do it.'

It was possible if he used the same technique he had used against Marquis Fergana but at a higher proficiency. If the electrical signals of the nervous system were accelerated to the extreme, the entire world would seem like it had stopped. He might not be able to overtake Zest's sword, but he wouldn't fall behind in speed.

Dozens of tactics and ideas mixed in Theodore's head as he concentrated till he reached his limit. It had been exactly 17 seconds from the start of the confrontation until the conclusion. The moment that absolute death was three steps away, Theodore Miller stepped forward boldly.

Then the murderer raised his sword like a reaper.

"Be prepared."

Zest's sword pierced through the air.

Paijijik.

Almost simultaneously, Theodore's body shone with a blue light. He might not have Gladio's Aura Ability, but he had Alfred's extreme sensitivity. His concentration was so extreme that he couldn't miss the sound of a falling needle.

'It's coming.' The world of his optic nerves was black and white. It was a world where everything stopped. In this slow scenery, Theodore stared at the blade before him. 'It isn't just fast. Omitting the intermediate process… It's a phenomenon that can't be understood by common sense. Is his Aura Ability the power to interfere with 'space'?'

Maybe it was 'time.' A few speculations came to his mind as Theodore observed Zest's sword, but he didn't have the time to ponder.

Saack.

Theodore took a step back as the space in front of his neck was split apart.

'Kuk! This is ridiculously fast!'

In this black and white world, only one sword and Theodore Miller seemed to move freely. The blade passed by the side of his neck and suddenly cut down the side, then it tried to split him from his crown to his groin. This was when Theodore finally saw a gap, so he extended his hand out and reached for the four elements.

'Forced Harmonization.'

The sword was moving at a terrible speed, so it was likely that Zest's defense would be just as fast. In this situation, the most appropriate attributes were lightning and light.

'Alfred's Magic Missile x Melt Downer.

'Melting Complete: Finger of Death.'

As these two spells merged, Theodore's five fingertips glowed with an ominous green light. It was the combination of a destruction magic, which could melt even metal, and Magic Bullet, which contained a quick destructive power. The defensive power of aura wouldn't be able to block this.

In an instant, the fingers of death aimed at the enemy's abdomen.

Piiing-

Five rays of destructive energy burned through the air. Then the ionized air turned into a vacuum as the rays aimed for Zest's abdomen.

[Hoh.]

The moment that the flesh was about to be pierced, Theodore heard it clearly.

[This is quite good?] Zest whispered with an eerie smile.

Kiing! Then the rays were cut off. Theodore couldn't even see Zest's movements as he cut all five rays of light with one slash. Zest truly was a sword master of the strongest empire. His aura density could probably withstand even great magics. It was impossible for Theodore to break through that defense. So, when Theodore saw the scene, he was astonished.

'Did he stop the rays in that posture? The magic light is a bit slower than a lightning bolt, but… my magic can't break through that defense!'

On the other hand, Zest's lazy expression started to be overtaken by a predator. "It has been a long time since I've felt like this. I'm excited."

Zest had always defeated the enemy with one-sided attacks, so he hadn't struggled for years and could never feel satisfied. His lazy behavior derived from a feeling of boredom, but Zest was actually a beast that was more vicious than any swordsman.

Unfortunately, Theodore's struggle had woken up that sleeping beast. Zest pointed his sword at Theodore with a strangely twisted smile. "Okay, I'll play properly."

It wasn't worth using a lot of effort, but it wasn't bad to play around. Theodore Miller's skill caused the sadistic nature of the sword demon to boil up. Should he cut off the limbs first? How about cutting off those cheeky fingers?

The monster, Zest Speitem, threw away his mask of laziness.

Chill. Theodore felt a wave of fear and couldn't help taking half a step back.

Pit…! Zest's blade narrowly passed through cloth and scattered drops of blood. If it had entered a little bit deeper, Theodore's carotid artery would've been cut. Theodore hurriedly moved back while healing his neck. This attack was so quick that the previous strikes seemed like a joke. However, from Zest's point of view, this was a normal attack.

'Damn, I have no chance of winning in a melee…!'

Theodore was still faster than lightning. When it came to speed, it was common sense that human speed couldn't overcome lightning. Even if the opponent had the ability to go beyond space, how could he stop lightning that went into the sky?

Theodore determined after opening up the distance between them and flying up into the sky.

"Hey, you can't run away."

…No, Theodore tried to fly up.

"Now let's have so fun, yes?"

Zest remained on the ground and swung his sword in an empty space.

Jeeeong! Then there was a roar, and Theodore fell down.

'… What, this…?'

It wasn't until Theodore fell 30 meters and landed on the ground that he realized what had happened. He had hit an invisible wall in thin air. It was lucky that he hadn't released his lightning mode. It was clear that his bones would've been shattered if he had received the collision with his human body.

Theodore landed on both legs and barely opened his mouth. "…H-How?"

"Hah, everyone's reaction is always the same." Zest walked step by step and chuckled. "I cut space. The space is cut many times to form a wall. Of course, the world will immediately restore it… It is good for those who are fast like you."

"Cut… space?"

"It seems like you can't believe it. Isn't this swordsmanship?"

It was confidence in his Aura Ability. This was a declaration that Theodore could be killed at any time and that he couldn't escape. Theodore now understood why the empire had dispatched the 2nd Sword.

…A swordsman who could cut space? Zest had completely cut off Theodore escape route. Even if Theodore's body's condition was perfect, he wouldn't be able to move through the space. He felt reluctant to use Umbra because he sensed that the result wouldn't be good.

'I can't avoid it with Umbra. I don't know what effect will happen if he cuts the space, even if I avoid it by moving to another dimension.'

Reality showed that he was absolutely cornered, but Theodore still didn't give up. His disadvantage wasn't the only thing he learned from Zest's answer.

'I found a weakness. The only thing that can be cut from a distance is space. If he could cut me directly from a distance, I would've already died. He is fast because he erases the space in the gap between us, but if his blade is visible at close range, I can somehow avoid it.'

Theodore maintained a barrier of magic power exactly 3 centimeters above his skin. He would only be able to survive by avoiding the death which appeared in front of him. It wasn't much different from dancing on the blade. However, if he survived the crisis… he could seize the opportunity to reverse this unfavorable situation.

"Huuuu…" Theodore turned into lightning again and lowered his body. The difficulty of his current task was much higher than any difficulties he had faced before.

One mistake could mean death. Zest seemed to like that Theodore didn't lose his fighting spirit. Then Zest raised his sword with a grin. "Are you hiding something? This time, try to hold on for a while."

He would stab in any gaps that Theodore showed. Theodore couldn't rely on a gap in the opponent to win, so he spent a lot of points in the Library to ensure victory. Theodore once again became lightning and enhanced his cognition in preparation to meet Zest's sword.

The magician who transformed into lightning and the sword master who cut the space… In the wilderness where no one was a spectator, the struggle of two beings who had transcended humans had just begun.

* * *

The exchange between two masters ended in just five minutes.

"Kuheok!" Theodore's imperfect lightning eventually reached the limit, so he rolled across the ground and coughed up blood. It was rather miraculous that he had managed to maintain it for five minutes with his unstable circles. He hadn't been able to rest, and now his legs didn't have the power to rise anymore.

In comparison, Zest looked no different than when he first appeared. Just like a cat playing with a rat, he trampled on the devastated Theodore. Zest pointed his sword as he spoke with satisfaction, "It was really entertaining. For you to be able to avoid my sword up to here, it was beyond my expectations."

"…This is entertainment for you?"

"Of course. It might be different if you are the fire witch or muscles-obsessed magician, but your skills can't threaten me. Didn't you focus on running away because you are well-aware of this?"

Theodore couldn't deny the words. The difference between him and Zest was that big. If they fought a hundred times, Theodore would die a hundred times. If they fought a thousand times, Theodore would die a thousand times.

He was lucky to have been able to run away, but Theodore's logical thinking couldn't deny Zest's answer. Zest, one of the strongest people in the present world, was three stages higher than Theodore Miller in every way.

'It would be the same in Meltor.'

The general soldiers or even 100 elite knights wouldn't be able to overpower a superhuman like Zest. If Theodore confronted him with Baek Jongmyung, both of them would be killed. Veronica and Blundell were the only ones who were an equal match. In the first place, Theodore had no intention of confronting Zest directly.

"Well, you're not wrong but… But it is a big mistake if you think I only ran away."

"What?" As Zest frowned, Theodore pointed to the ground where the two of them were standing. Zest noticed it the moment he looked down at the ground. "A magic circle? This is… Ah."

It was a super large magic circle which was 50 meters in diameter. Zest thought about when this magic circle had been formed.

Theodore, who had turned into lightning, must've drawn it while running away. His movements seemed like he didn't know martial arts, and had only been occasionally ineffective. It made sense if he had been drawing this magic circle during the fight.

However, Zest didn't panic when he noticed it. "So, can you beat me with this magic circle?"

"No way." Zest was confused after Theodore denied it. "Attack magic can be avoided, and I can't bind you since you have the ability to cut space."

No matter what method Theodore used, he couldn't win. So, he had thoroughly prepared a strategy based on this premise. Theodore Miller couldn't defeat Zest Speitem. However. there was a way to call an existence that could beat Zest Speitem. The completed magic circle was summoning magic.

'Today, in this place… it's all connected.'

Theodore's magic power flowed into the magic circle on the ground, and it flashed red. A summons that could deal with Zest wouldn't be ordinary. The current condition of Theodore's body meant he would just self-destruct if he called Fafnir, and other existences wouldn't be able to deal with a sword master.

So, Theodore had searched the Library last night. It had been to find a catalyst for the summoning magic he had thought about since hearing who the author of Hellfire was. It was the species that was responsible for the division of this material world, and they had been the main enemies in the great war, with worshipers who still remained today.

"「 Open, blazing gate of hell― 」"

An enemy of the world, a demon, was called.