136 LOTM
At his point, Klein had roughly understood the situation.
Due to the law of Beyonder characteristic convergence, he had been targeted by the Spirit World Plunderer the moment he entered Calderón City, which didn't even have ordinary dead spirits. It first moved the golden disc of unknown origins to the predicted path, allowing his marionette to see it while walking past. As such, his attention was transferred to the transformation effect Calderón City had on the living. Following that, it used the giant blacksmith, which wasn't its soul avatar, to distract him further. Finally, it secretly arrived within control distance and achieved success in "one
try."
If it wasn't because I had seen those deceased bodies that are hung up like wind chimes at the cathedral, thus having an instinctual fear of High-Sequence Beyonders of the Seer pathway, and having prepared several autonomous means to disrupt any exertion of control over me, I might've already been made a soul avatar by the Spirit World Plunderer...
Seriously, I should've thought of the law of Beyonder characteristic convergence before I came in... After carrying the Sea God Scepter, even with the Tyrant card suppressing it, I'm still a little too rash. I nearly missed out on such a crucial detail...
On the surface, I did seem as cautious as I usually am, but in fact, I had turned rash without realizing it. Yet, I didn't even believe I was being rash... Klein's thoughts raced before he raised the bone scepter-wielding arm and continued using Lightning Storm.
If once wasn't enough, make it twice. If that still wasn't enough, do it a third time. In short, he had to take this opportunity to prevent the Spirit World Plunderer from escaping from the range of his attacks!
This was the safest method, and it was also Klein's fighting style that he looked up to the most. If it wasn't because Lightning Strike had been greatly weakened in Calderón City, he even suspected that he could've gone over to pick up the Beyonder characteristic already. @@novelbin@@
And having already digested most of the Sequence 5 potion, his spirituality was sufficient enough for him to deal out such damage for a while!
At this moment, the "invisible" figure wearing a translucent white robe burst into pale-white flames. It appeared in midair several hundred meters away.
The Spirit World Plunderer had used Flaming Jump, which was many times stronger than Klein's version, instantly pulling away from him!
At the same time, in the rubble it was hiding in, a four-meter-tall bluish-black giant staggered to his feet.
The giant's chest was open, but there weren't any innards. However, it stood like a castle, standing in between the Tyrant and the Spirit World Plunderer, blocking Klein's line of sight.
And in Klein's eyes, its Spirit Body Threads were gathered together, extending far towards the Spirit World Plunderer. It was obvious that it was a soul avatar.
At the tip of the Sea God Scepter, the blue-colored gems lit up. A few bolts of lightning leapt out of thin air, mixing together into a huge silver arrow. Instantly, it smote the bluish-black giant's head.
All the invisible defenses shattered, and like paper mache, the giant's head cracked. Countless bits of charred flesh splattered as his headless body evaporated amidst white gases that were tainted with dark green spots. All his vitality was robbed away.
All of this happened in the blink of an eye. Klein, in his papal tiara and papal robe, raised the bone scepter even higher.
The blue light radiated in ripples as howling wind blew up his cape.
In a very large area of Calderón City's periphery, dark clouds quickly gathered. Under a suppressive layer, they made the area appear darker and more repressed.
Smack! Smack! Smack!
Bean-sized drops of water smashed to the ground, releasing dust that had accumulated over time.
Splash!
The raindrops pattered at an increasing pace, forming a catastrophic storm.
The water extinguished the pale-white flames and formed a stream that gushed downwards towards the lowest point of the city, right for the end of the deep pit.
In such weather, Klein's Flaming Jump had been made ineffective, but it was likewise for the Spirit World Plunderer!
However, to a Tyrant, his spirituality could spread through the dark clouds as though he had transformed into a deity that overlooked the land.
Every dark cloud, every drop of water had become Klein's eyes. They allowed him to easily find the Spirit World Plunderer in every area that had its weather change.
This invisible figure with the translucent white robe was hiding behind a broken pale-white column. It hadn't left the periphery for the core region.
Boom!
A deafening boom sounded as bolts of lightning meshed to form a silver beam that shot out from the dark clouds, right at the Spirit World Plunderer.
Relying on its potent spiritual premonition, the invisible figure burrowed into the ground half a second early.
Three thick silver beams smote the area one after another, melting the soil away as they sank downwards, producing charred craters.
The Spirit World Plunderer emerged from another spot as it hurriedly dodged, keeping to the right at times and left at other times, as though it was carrying out a snaking dodge manoeuver.
However, regardless of where it fled to, the silver beams would chase up to it. They even blocked its path ahead of time, preventing it from attempting to leave the stormy region.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
The deity akin to a Tyrant, who looked down from the dark clouds at the Spirit World Plunderer, waved his scepter and struck down again and again at his target, with success barely eluding him several times.
Klein turned more and more anxious, eager to immediately end the hunt. Hence, he unreservedly triggered the Sea God Scepter to increase the frequency at which bolts of lightning struck down.
Suddenly, he felt a strong sense of exhaustion.
This alarmed Klein for he realized that something was amiss.
The Spirit World Plunderer had the chance of retreating deeper into Calderón City at the beginning, so why is it staying around?
It's clearly a spirit world creature without a physical body. It can burrow underground to avoid the lightning and a Tyrant's notice, so why is it circling around from time to time?
It's trying to make me attack. It has noticed that I'm not a demigod through my Spirit Body Threads and my control over my marionettes. It wishes to drain me of my spirituality! Klein was alarmed. Combining it with his original encounter, he came to a realization of how intelligent the Spirit World Plunderer was. It was a rather crafty creature.
At the same time, he also thought of a problem:
Could Lightning Storm and the stormy rain attract the notice of dangerous existences in the core region of Calderón City?
I'm too rash. I keep neglecting the critical details... As thoughts flashed through his mind, Klein put away the Sea God Scepter.
The heavy storm stopped as the dark clouds quickly scattered, the weather restoring to normal.
Klein made Enzo return to his side with Word of the Sea, and he got Ludwell to protect him in the middle.
Following that, he and his two marionettes walked out as though they were trying to leave Calderón City while he still had some spirituality left.
During this process, Klein had his Spirit Body Threads vision constantly activated to prevent the Spirit World Plunderer from approaching him.
He noticed that this creature's Spirit Body Threads were somewhat special. A portion of them came out from its body and extended outwards normally. A number materialized externally and were bound together in a thick bundle, right into the translucent white robe.
Klein suspected that this was the state when a Spirit World Plunderer controlled a soul avatar, making it different from a Marionettist.
As he shifted his gaze, he suddenly saw thin black illusory threads coming out from a collapsed house. A portion of them gathered into a thick bunch with its source in the distance.
Klein didn't hesitate to raise his Sea God Scepter, creating a sonorous thunderclap.
Boom!
Amidst this sound that struck awe into one's mind and spirit, Ludwell suddenly raised his left hand.
Half his body instantly turned illusory as his arm extended out extensively, heading straight for the collapsed house.
Midway, his palm turned abnormally pale-white. An illusory face protruded out and stuck out with a snakelike tongue which had white fur covering its surface.
The tongue reached out far, penetrating the wall and stabbing at the spot where the Spirit Body Threads were gathered. It immediately sucked on a distorted and blurry soul.
Around the soul, a number of Spirit Body Threads suddenly disappeared as though they never existed.
A portion of them was none other than the gathered bundle, the ones that came from afar!
They were fake!
The Spirit World Plunderer was able to create fake, illusory Spirit World Plunderers or instantly swap location between the soul avatar and itself!
Klein suddenly turned his head and looked elsewhere. Indeed, he saw a blob of Spirit Body Threads swim over from underground at a fast speed.
He once again used Sea God Scepter, releasing a thunderclap close to the ground, one that could awe his Spirit Body.
Meanwhile, Enzo expended some of his remaining luck, adding bad luck to the target. Then, he shot out a silver bolt of lightning from the tip of the Word of the Sea.
The bolt of lightning rather luckily passed through a crack and entered the ground, striking the assailant directly. It caused a portion of the Spirit Body Threads to instantly vanish.
It was also fake!
Just as Klein reacted, his thoughts paused and his body turned numb.
Just as he opened his mouth with great difficulty to instruct the mystical item, the invisible figure in the translucent robe descended from above, landing right before him.
The Spirit World Plunderer had been hiding high in the sky, cloaking itself with the grayish-white clouds!
The moment this invisible figure appeared, maggots began crawling out of its collar where its head should be. They were maggots with strange patterns covering them.
Just one look at them sent his mind reeling. Although he broke out of the control of his Spirit Body Threads, he also lost his ability to think.
His face that was shadowed by the papal tiara began to grow meat tendrils. Each tendril was relatively transparent, like squirming worms.
If it wasn't for the Tyrant card's level supporting him, he would've fallen to the ground while struggling in pain.
The Spirit World Plunderer had a Mythical Creature form to a certain extent.
At this moment, the invisible figure inside the white robe began to control Klein's Spirit Body Threads without any obstacles in the way. In a few seconds, it was already close to succeeding.
Seeing that its prey was about to become its soul avatar, the Spirit World Plunderer suddenly saw its target open his mouth with great difficulty and say a word.
He had recovered from the state of nearly losing control faster than it had anticipated. And the word was in ancient Hermes: "Fate!"
It was the incantation for the Fate Siphon charm!
If Klein really wanted to leave, he would've grabbed his two marionettes and directly ended the summoning to return above the gray fog. He wouldn't have walked to Calderón City's entrance.
He was planting a trap for the Spirit World Plunderer!
The reason why he could recover so quickly from the injuries dealt to him by a Mythical Creature form, and why he was able to chant the relevant word, was because he had experienced such situations too many times. Besides, although he wasn't sure what method his opponent was using, there was definitely a rather well-rounded way to deal with it-make his target unlucky.
Just as Klein entered a sluggish state, his first reaction wasn't to make the mystical item sing, but to let Enzo expend all his luck, making the Spirit World Plunderer have enough bad luck!
-x-X-x-
"Fate!"
As the dragged out and abstruse ancient Hermes term resounded, the spots where the Spirit World Plunderer and Klein stood suddenly darkened.
It wasn't very obvious, as though a cloud had drifted over in midair without stopping.
But when this illusionary shadow dissipated, the invisible figure that was donning a translucent white robe stood frozen on the spot. The surface of its clothes showed signs of worms crawling across it. It was sluggish, slow, and in a dire state.
Across it, Klein's eyes had their lucidity return. The meat tendrils on the shadowed face beneath the papal tiara vanished.
It appeared as though it wasn't the Spirit World Plunderer who had controlled Klein's Spirit Body Threads and nearly succeeded; instead, it appeared as though Klein was the one who was controlling it and had nearly converted it into his marionette!
The Fate Siphon charm switched one's fate!
This was a high-level charm made using a Worm of Time. It could siphon off the target's subsequent fate, and in a short period of time, burden it with that of the target's, so as to complete an exchanging of fates.
Therefore Klein and the Spirit World Plunderer's situations had switched. One went from death to survival, while the other went from victory to instant despair.
After confirming that the Spirit World Plunderer was intelligent and extremely difficult to deal with, making it difficult to hunt it, Klein began putting on an act of retreating. He appeared rash as he deliberately walked into the Spirit World Plunderer's control, enticing its actions, ready to use the Fate Siphon charm at the critical moment!
That way, what terrible acts the Spirit World Plunderer did to its enemy, the charm would then allow it to experience the same despair!
Of course, if the Fate Siphon charm didn't have the expected effect, or if the Spirit World Plunderer's main soul didn't appear and had ended up using other means to control the situation, Klein still had his last trick up his sleeve to protect himselfdirectly end the summoning and return above the gray fog. He would sacrifice his two marionettes and a few mystical items in order to ensure his own safety.
Without the time to marvel at how magical the Fate Siphon charm was, or how terrifying angels from the Marauder pathway were, Klein didn't hesitate to raise the Sea God Scepter high up before the swapping of fates ended.
The dark blue papal robe flared up with the wind as the golden papal tiara emitted meshed blue and silver beams of light. At the tip of the white bone scepter, it shot out bolts of lightning that gathered into a ball before landing on the Spirit World Plunderer's body!
A swath of silver color brightened up immediately, inundating the target, turning the surroundings white.
Once, twice, thrice. Klein continuously triggered terrifying lightning balls, expending his spirituality without holding back.
Finally, he heard a roar that seemed to stem from the depths of one's soul as he instinctively sensed that his target had collapsed and dissipated.
Only then did Klein lower the Sea God Scepter and watch the silver lightning sizzle away.
At that moment, his entire Spirit Body had turned rather illusory. Even with the Tyrant's augmentation, it didn't seem real.
As the lightning dispersed, the invisible figure in the white translucent robe appeared once again in Klein's sight.
Flickering light emerged from within as the Spirit World Plunderer's body cracked, turning into countless illusory bubbles that disintegrated bit by
bit.
The Tyrant had succeeded in the hunt.
At this moment, deep within Calderón City, there was a sudden quake. It was as though a massive creature had awoken as a result of the Spirit World Plunderer's death, or that countless dangerous creatures were surging out.
The indescribable feeling combined into a swath of illusory grayish-white and, like a tidal wave, rose up from the bottom.
Other Spirit World Plunderers? No, it appears to be a more terrifying and horrible creature. A being that the Spirit World Plunderer attends to? Also, in Calderón City's core region, at the end of the deep pit, it's still as silent as ever. There's no sound at all, making it more horrifying... Klein pumped himself up as he diverted some attention in order to monitor the situation inside Calderón City as he anxiously waited for the Spirit World Plunderer's characteristic to appear to form an ingredient.
He wasn't relishing in the delight of a successful hunt but was pacing about anxiously at the edge of the abyss.
During this process, Klein got Enzo and Ludwell to stay close to him. He threw the Sea God Scepter to the former so as to escape the state of irascibility. He began considering how to deal with the subsequent development with a clear mind, as well as consider whether he had missed out on some other details.
As the thoughts flashed in his mind, Klein suddenly recalled something:
Back when he made the mystical items sing, Creeping Hunger had praised the True Creator and had used "His" complete honorific name.
Although the human-skinned glove had used Hermes instead of ancient Hermes or other languages that could stir the powers of nature, the former was still usable when it came to sacrifices! This also meant that the True Creator might've very well heard Creeping Hunger's praises and noticed the commotion here.
Apart from the rising grayish-white tide and the terrifying creature deep down in the city, there are other dangers... Wait, I'm now a Spirit Body, equivalent to a wraith. I'm not in my normal state... Just as Klein's mind thought of something, his spiritual perception was triggered as he instinctively cast his gaze at the entrance to Calderón City.
The lights there flickered as a figure entered.
The figure was wearing a simple and ordinary linen robe with a head of silver hair.
He was a handsome man with soft facial features. His eyes were gentle with some hints of coldness. It was as though he was observing the fates of everyone in the world like a spectator.
Behind him, there were beams forming illusory layers of pure wings. They spread outwards, blocking the entire entrance.
ILI
Klein nearly hissed through the gaps in his teeth as a series of titles and names flashed across his mind:
Ouroboros!
Tail Devourer!
Angel of Fate!
King of Angels!
He didn't have the luxury of time to consider the possibility of his previous thought. His body expanded as though it was incorporeal, enveloping his marionettes, Enzo and Ludwell, the yet-to-appear characteristic, and the Spirit World Plunderer's remnant bubbles within!
At this moment, Ouroboros's silver eyes already had the distant figure in "His" sights. It was a figure wearing a papal tiara and a dark blue robe, exuding extreme oppression and tyranny. There was a grayish-white fog that had been blurred by the Tyrant's aura. @@novelbin@@
A river of flickering light appeared in "His" eyes, seeming to circle the Tyrant figure and the periphery of Calderón City.
Silently, the square houses and the pale-white columns stood up again despite being destroyed by the Lightning Storm from before. The charred legs of the giant blacksmith once again possessed a body as he appeared inside the tomb, striking at the anvil.
All of this returned to what it was like shortly after the Tyrant stepped in.
However, Klein in his pontiff attire had vanished. His two marionettes along with the remnant bubbles of the Spirit World Plunderer had vanished as well.
The corresponding figure was unable to return as the rebooted scene shattered, turning back to the desolate state after the battle.
Tail Devourer Ouroboros watched silently for a long while before making a move. The grayish-white swath that rose up from the depth of Calderón City slowly receded back down.
Above the gray fog, Klein slumped in the high-back chair of The Fool in exhaustion. He wasn't even able to get Enzo and Ludwell to massage him.
He had already thrown the Sea God Scepter back to the junk pile. The Tyrant card had left his soul body and was placed facing down beside the Black Emperor card. The Spirit World Plunderer's bubbles were floating ahead, with the Beyonder characteristic constantly seeping out before combining with the points of light.
After resting for a while, Klein saw grayish-white powder fall onto the mottled table's surface. Following that was a transparent item that seemed weightless.
The item was the size of a palm, formed by coiled maggots. It was almost shaped like a human, and its interior was filled with a colorless liquid. Bubbles often emerged, scattering black hints of light.
Klein didn't dare to look at it carefully, as there was a more complicated structure in the weightless transparent object. They formed indescribable patterns and symbols that seemed to fuse knowledge, power, transformation, secrets, bizarreness, and madness within, making them no longer abstract.
This made Klein feel very dizzy. His mind was even on the verge of breaking down, with his soul almost losing control.
This is likely the true soul of the Spirit World Plunderer... I have the corresponding powder as well. There's about 70 grams, more than I needed. It's more than I expected. Klein nodded indiscernibly and stored the powder into a box. Together with the true soul body, he threw them on the junk pile and covered it with the gray fog.
After completing this, he raised his hand to rub his temples and made a self-deprecating remark:
If it wasn't for the Sea God Scepter, I probably would've had to leave Calderón City due to the assault of the Spirit World Plunderer. I would then wait until I had helpers and could make the most solid of hunting plans so as to control the stirrings of the area to not alarm the unknown entity at the core region...
Sigh, I was rash the entire time. Although the outcome was fine, it really doesn't suit my character. It's also completely at odds with the Seer pathway's acting. In the future, I should try to avoid using the Sea God Scepter in the outside world.
Uh... The Spirit World Plunderer has been successfully hunted. There's no need for me to get Miss Sharron's help. In a few days, I'll write to her so that she won't be thinking over this matter.
However, I have a premonition that I'll still be heading to Calderón City in the future. When that happens, perhaps I might still need Miss Sharron's help.
In addition, I have to seek out information on Bizarro Banes. I can't put all my hope on the City of Silver...
Amidst his thoughts, Klein directly returned to his body, without bringing his marionettes. He ended the ritual and headed straight for bed, falling asleep the moment his head hit the pillow.
"Escaped?" Soest looked at the man opposite him and asked Daly Simone who was carrying out a spirit channeling
They had just finished their operation and had captured a few Numinous Episcopate members. However, the key personnel the intel pointed at, Hand of White Palenque Taciblius, wasn't at the secret gathering point.
He was a Sequence 4 demigod; therefore, not only had the Red Gloves team used a Grade 1 Sealed Artifact, they had even requested Goddess's Eye Ilya's help. However, it was all futile.
Daly Simone nodded.
"Yes."
She then looked at the captive, suddenly speaking with an ethereal voice, "Where did Palenque Taciblius go?"
"H-he said he was going to meet someone," the Numinous Episcopate member answered slowly.
"Who is that person?" Daly Simone pressed. Leonard Mitchell and company also cast their gazes over.
The man who was being spirit channeled answered with an unperturbed voice, "Ince Zangwill."
-x-X-x-
"Ince Zangwill."
Upon hearing the name, all the Red Gloves present fell silent. Not a single one spoke for a moment.
Ever since this former bishop betrayed and fled the Church, the Church of Evernight had never relaxed its pursuit of him. Archbishops and high-ranking deacons who took up high posts had taken turns being responsible for searching for him. They helped each other, often bringing the relevant Sealed Artifacts everywhere to search for clues about him. But ultimately, they were unable to lock onto Ince Zangwill. He slipped away as a result of all kinds of coincidences, his shadow wasn't even noticed. Furthermore, he had caused several major events that killed many Nighthawks.
To the Church of Evernight, especially the Nighthawks, he was someone they hated that had also insulted them!
Without realizing it, Leonard Mitchell had already clenched his hanging fists as his breathing grew deeper.
He soon forced himself to extricate himself from the sudden emotions that emerged within him. He turned his attention to something else.
It was no wonder Dwayne Dantès was able to meet Ince Zangwill on Waypoint Island in the Berserk Sea. It was because the latter's goal was also the Southern Continent—East Balam!
Amidst everyone's silence, Daly Simone immediately used her Spirit Body to emit an ethereal voice without any obvious changes. With some coldness, she spoke at a quickened pace:
"Where are they meeting?"
The Numinous Episcopate member shook his head blankly.
"I don't know."
Daly raised a few more questions, but she didn't get an ideal reply.
Finally, she took a step back and cast her eyes at the Red Gloves team captain, Soest.
Soest sighed and deliberated over his words before saying, "First, we need to inform this piece of intel to Her Excellency, Goddess's Eye. We shall leave it to her to contact the Holy Cathedral. Ince, who has 0-08 with him, isn't someone a Red Gloves team can handle.
"Second, we should continue investigating and follow this clue pertaining to Palenque Taciblius. Let's hope that we can figure out Ince Zangwill's motives. With the situation of us not being able to track him or lock onto him, grasping his motives is more important than knowing where he is. Perhaps, it can help us set up a trap that he has no choice but to step into. @@novelbin@@
"Finally, from now on, everyone is to take note of any coincidences. Regardless of the reason, they are to be reported to me!"
"Yes, Captain!" the Red Glove members replied in unison. Leonard maintained his silence as he turned his head to glance at Daly Simone. He found that this Gatekeeper who addressed herself as a Spirit Medium was similarly silent. Her gaze was dark.
At the same time, he heard Pallez Zoroast's slightly-aged voice resound in his mind:
"Heh heh, from the looks of it, I'll be witnessing a play of running and pursuing."
What does Old Man mean? Is he hinting at something? We just decided to start investigations on Ince Zangwill's motives, and it's already known by 0-08? Leonard looked away and suddenly had an idea.
If a person who is already dead was to secretly do the relevant investigation, would he be able to avoid 0-08's notice?
After two hours of sleep, Klein rubbed his still throbbing head and slowly got out of bed.
Following that, he pulled the bell by the side of the door and waited for an attendant to arrive.
Before long, a native deliberately dressed in Loen attire—a white shirt and red vest-knocked on the door.
Klein twisted the handle and opened a tiny gap in the door. He instructed with a hoarse voice, "Send another lunch set to the room. I had my meal too early."
At that instant, he already looked like the tanned Enzo. As a gentleman living in a luxurious room with two servants, it was impossible for him to personally instruct the attendant at the door.
"Yes sir, a lunch set. Any special requests?" The native attendant took out some paper and a pen and began recording as he asked with a rather strange Loenese accent.
Klein used an equally odd Loenese accent.
"With braised meat as the main dish, match it with a cup of sparkling wine with ice and lemon."
"Do I include two servant meals?" the native attendant asked, following the usual procedure.
Klein was silent for two seconds before saying, "Yes."
After ending the conversation, he closed the door and quickly set up a ritual, bringing back Enzo and Ludwell from above the gray fog to the real world. As for Creeping Hunger and Word of the Sea, he temporarily left them in the junk pile. One of them was starving, and the other could hardly resist the urge to sing.
After Klein controlled the marionettes to clean up his room, a few attendants came to deliver lunch. Soon, the entire room was filled with the sounds of cutlery hitting the plate and a soft chewing sound.
After some time, Klein put down his cutlery, picked up his napkin, and wiped his mouth. In satisfaction, he leaned backward and shook his head helplessly.
"If this continues, I'll really become fat..."
The two marionettes had already lost the ability to eat, but to conceal that fact, Klein had no choice but to add servant meals. With him unwilling to see food go to waste, he could only try to eat as much as he
could.
"... Thankfully I'm a Faceless." Klein covered his mouth as he burped before drinking the last bit of sparkling wine.
Only at this moment did he feel like he had recovered. He now had the energy to consider the various details of his trip to Calderón City.
The Marauder pathway is truly terrifying. Just a charm created from a Worm of Time is able to achieve such incredulous effects. As a King of Angels, it's obvious how terrifying Blasphemer Amon is. Even an avatar isn't easy to deal with... Thankfully, I didn't put on a brave front. I knew to mimic those with experience and directly fled to the Southern Continent...
The True Creator places a great importance on me. "He" directly got Tail Devourer Ouroboros to rush over...
This does have a feeling of traveling across time. The angels on ancient murals are just walking out and standing before me. Thankfully, I was still able to directly end the summoning.
Just as Klein thought of this, his expression sank as he discovered a serious problem:
Ouroboros is a King of Angels from the Monster pathway!
This also meant that "He" could directly see the uniqueness about him. "He" could see the grayish-white fog and see the illusory door formed of spherical lights and the transparent and translucent maggots that formed the spherical lights!
What does this actually imply? The Angel of Fate who has survived since the Second Epoch should know something. And the True Creator probably knows more... Could "They" be able to tell that I'm the master of the mysterious space above the gray fog? Regardless, the importance "They" place on me will rise! Klein clenched his right fist and put it to
Order or Rose Redemption might take.
He felt lucky that, be it Rose Redemption or the Aurora Order, they had yet to lock onto any of The Fool's believers.
However, during the chaotic battle outside Bayam, when he was still active as Gehrman Sparrow, he had thrown out the Tinder glove, which had been corrupted by the True Creator, to attempt to attract a saint from the Aurora Order. This might very well have led to the crazy adventurer to enter the suspect list.
From the clues extending outward from Gehrman Sparrow, there's Admiral of Stars, Vice Admiral Iceberg, Danitz, and Anderson. All of them will be investigated by the Aurora Order. I have to warn them. Klein slowly exhaled and stood up, prepared to head above the gray fog.
From his point of view, the pursuit of Gehrman Sparrow by the military, Church of Storms, Rose School of Thought, and Numinous Episcopate were all different. The True Creator's believers were rather crazy and had a King of Angels, a leader who was good at prying into the secrets of fate, active in the real world. This way, it didn't matter if Cattleya and company were at sea, making it difficult to be locked on. There was still the risk of them being found.
Among them, Vice Admiral Iceberg Edwina and the Fog Sea's Strongest Hunter Anderson weren't people Klein was worried too much about. They knew little, nothing that pointed towards the core problem. Nothing much would happen aside from the need to consider whether the bunch of lunatics of the Aurora Order would employ extreme methods in the interrogation process.
West Balam, Northern State. In the Cookawa City ruled by Maysanchez. Danitz, who was chewing on roasted meat, paused suddenly. He heard Mr. Fool pass him the warning from Gehrman Sparrow.
"Be careful of the Numinous Episcopate. Be careful of the Aurora Order, especially the latter. Pay special attention. Also, warn Anderson Hood as well as Edwina Edwards."
Be careful of the Numinous Episcopate... Be careful of the Aurora Order... How many has it been... The military, Church of Storms, Church of Evernight, Rose School of Thought... What did Gehrman Sparrow do? Why has he offended so many factions? Dogsh*t! Danitz's expression froze before grimacing.
He had no idea that the strongest person of the seven pirate admirals had changed.
Opposite him, Anderson put down the knife he used to slice meat, pricked up his brows, and curiously asked, "Have you recalled something?"
Danitz secretly took a deep breath and asked after some deliberation, "Have you heard of the Aurora Order?"
He wasn't sure if Anderson knew. After all, the Aurora Order was a rather secretive organization in the beginning. Its reputation was later build up in the Loen Kingdom.
Anderson chuckled.
"I'm actually more surprised that you know of them. Did your captain tell you?"
Without waiting for Danitz to answer, he combed his short hair with his finger and continued, "They believe that the Creator is omnipresent. Everything has godhood. They believe that life is nothing but a spiritual journey. As long as one is willing to listen to their preachings, understand, discover, and gather the godhood, they will eventually become angels to transcend reality.
"Such an idea doesn't sound bad, but that's not the main point. The main point is that they believe in the True Creator..."
Upon hearing that, Danitz couldn't help but jeer:
"You know quite a bit, just slightly less than I know."
Anderson immediately curled the ends of his mouth and said with a beaming smile, "Of course.
"I once joined an organization in Intis. They hoped to change society, the world, to make the supernatural no longer secret and to be out in the open for everyone to see, so as to become true rulers.
"They're called the Iron and Blood Cross Order, and they also believe in the True Creator."
Danitz's expression froze as cold sweat oozed out of his forehead.
-x-X-x-
Glancing at Danitz's expression, Anderson continued as though he didn't notice a thing.
"However, their brains appear to have been eaten by zombies. They were fervent to the point of stupidity. They didn't adhere to my sense of aesthetics. So after cheating them of their things, I quit.
"Eh, why's your face a little pale. You're even sweating. Did you get heatstroke? As a hunter, shouldn't adapting to the environment be an intrinsic ability?"
Danitz lifted his right hand and wiped his sweat. Cursing inwardly, he forced a smile and said, "I've heard that once someone believes in an evil god, it's almost impossible to escape the faith."
As he spoke, he raised his chin slightly, wearing a look as though he was musing over the circumstances of his future death. It didn't cross his mind that Gehrman Sparrow had just offended the Aurora Order and was being targeted by the True Creator's believers. He also didn't make the connection that he was believing in a suspected evil god, The Fool.
"Well said," Anderson replied with a smile that didn't have the slightest hint of gloom. "It's not like I have any true faith. Back then, the incantations I said were lines I modified from the God of Knowledge and Wisdom. Since they don't really enjoy using their brains, no—they don't even have that. As long as you superficially appear devout, any random excuse can be used to fool them."
Without waiting for Danitz to develop the discussion further, he asked, "Why are you suddenly asking about the Aurora Order?"
Danitz bit down on his roasted meat and slowly chewed and swallowed. After a deliberate pause of twenty to thirty seconds, he said, "I just recalled something. For some reason, Gehrman Sparrow has been identified by the Aurora Order as a high-priority elimination target. Oh right, there's also the Numinous Episcopate. And both you and me are known to have relations with him."
"You want me to be careful against the Aurora Order and the Numinous Episcopate?" Anderson nodded in enlightenment as he chuckled. "You've recently mentioned something similar. Rose School of Thought, Church of Storms, Loen military... Man, at times, I even feel that Gehrman Sparrow is more suited to being a hunter than me."
Danitz could hardly retort as he nodded heavily in agreement.
Anderson thought for a moment when he suddenly changed topics out of the blue:
"What do you plan on doing here in West Balam? Helping Gehrman Sparrow with something?"
Upon hearing this question, Danitz fell silent for a second. He put down the item in his hand and tidied his clothes in an unhurried manner.
"Investigate the faith of the different classes of West Balam."
This was determined after his discussion with Vice Admiral Iceberg Edwina. In common parlance, it meant: Investigating the developments of the various secret organizations and factions in West Balam.
Of course, this included some preliminary contact with the local ruling forces, and to figure out if they had any desire to purchase firearms.
"Investigate the faith of the different classes of West Balam..." Anderson repeated Danitz's words as he reflectively raised his right hand to rub his temples as though he had a headache.
After the end of the Tarot Gathering, and warning Admiral of Stars to take note of the Aurora Order's and Numinous Episcopate's "investigations," with the best choice being seeking the Moses Ascetic Order's help, Klein busily finished the three-party transaction between The World, The Moon, and The Sun. He received 5,000 pounds in return.
After dinner, he bit on an unlit disguised smoke pipe as he read the papers. Then, he saw Miss Messenger walk out of the void to deliver him a letter.
Leonard's... Klein reached out to receive it and noticed that Reinette Tinekerr didn't stay at all. She had rapidly returned to the spirit world.
This also made him determine that Leonard Mitchell had already paid the mailing fee; hence, he took out his other hand and unfolded the letter.
"Ince Zangwill has appeared in East Balam. He's suspected to have met with Palenque Taciblius from the Numinous Episcopate's Artificial Death faction..."
Ince Zangwill... Klein ruminated over the name as he slowly leaned back into his reclining chair. @@novelbin@@
In the letter, Leonard wished that he could do some investigations in secret to figure out Ince Zangwill's motives.
But the problem is that 0-08 has the characteristic of "any mention of it will be known." Knowing of it also means being known by it. Besides, it's good at arranging coincidences, making people follow its directions without even realizing it... Under such circumstances, it's very difficult to avoid 0-08's notice while investigating Ince Zangwill. Not only is there no chance of success, it's also easy to expose myself... As Klein thought, he made Enzo walk behind him and begin massaging his shoulder.
He read Leonard Mitchell's letter again, hoping to find more clues and incisive points for investigations from those few words.
East Balam... Numinous Episcopate... Artificial Death... Palenque Taciblius... Why is Ince Zangwill looking for them for? Trying to find allies for the true mastermind behind the Great Smog of Backlund, that royal family's faction?
Artificial Death... Artificial Death...
As Klein thought, he suddenly recalled that there was a matter that no one knew other than himself and Mr. Azik.
The Evernight Goddess had preliminary gained control of the Death pathway's Uniqueness—in other words, Artificial Death. Presently, "She" was usurping, digesting, and wielding the corresponding authority!
In other words, the Numinous Episcopate's Artificial Death faction's target of belief was, in a way, the Evernight Goddess. After the authority was fully transferred and seized, they were bound to suffer a purge before slowly merging with the Church of Evernight. Or they might continue their work, making contact with the other Numinous Episcopate factions and other secret factions while unnoticeably cooperating with the Nighthawks.
To Klein, this wasn't anything of importance. What was important was, that in an ancient text he found before, it mentioned:
To artificially create Death, a number of Numinous Episcopate members had to pray to the Uniqueness daily, as though it was a true deity. It was an attempt to slowly awaken its sentience and allow it to come to life.
Of course, this was only one part of the overall plan which wasn't critical.
Then, could it be possible that when Palenque Taciblius prayed to Artificial Death, he had mentioned Ince Zangwill's motives and had sought blessings?
But he will probably never imagine that Artificial Death has already been controlled by the Evernight Goddess. Although it hasn't become part of "Her" manifestation, it has already lost its "freedom."
From this angle, directly setting up a ritual to pray to the Goddess might allow one to obtain Ince Zangwill's motives... That's quite possible! The more Klein thought about it, the more certain he was that his seemingly ridiculous plan would succeed.
And as for the reason why this could become a reality:
It was because the enemy's "leader" was their "spy"!
After getting Enzo to stop massaging him, Klein slowly got up and paced about, considering if he should make the attempt, and if so, how.
Ince Zangwill is a traitor of the Church. He's an insult to all Nighthawks. If there's a chance to wipe him out, the Goddess should be very willing to see it happen. "She" wouldn't mind providing some help...
But the Goddess is now in a critical stage of seizing the Artificial Death's authority. "She" will not be able to provide answers for a long period of time, and "She" can only provide feedback to normal ritualistic magic. Besides, I also lack the corresponding materials...
Also, I've been constantly warning myself to be on guard. I must not fully trust and rely on the Goddess... On second thoughts, directly praying to "Her" to obtain a revelation might not be too good. I hope to maintain a safe distance... Amidst his thoughts, Klein felt a little hesitant.
He began letting his thoughts wander in a bid to find a more acceptable plan.
Suddenly, he had a more ridiculous idea.
Directly pray to Artificial Death!
This actually posed no danger. This was because Artificial Death wasn't able to respond to prayers and rituals. If there was any feedback, it meant that it was essentially controlled by the Evernight Goddess. On the other hand, Klein had the feather produced and left behind from the Artificial Death Project. He also had Azik's copper whistle. He didn't need to spend too much time to gather the ingredients needed to set up a ritual for a revelation!
In addition, there's a layer in between us. I'm not directly contacting the Goddess. Perhaps, this might even help "Her" further seize Artificial Death's authority. Klein consoled himself as he began busying himself.
He first used the sacrificial and bestowment ritual. He brought back the two remaining feathers and some Full Moon Essence Oil, night vanilla powder, and other items which he had not used in a while to the real world. Then, he modified the sacrificial altar and completed the first part of the preparations. After all, he was essentially praying to the Evernight Goddess, he couldn't be bothered to head out to buy ritualistic materials of the Death domain.
This was essentially the same as other normal ritualistic magic. With great familiarity, Klein lit the candles, dripped some essential oils, and drew the symbols for "human" and "concealment" on an artificial goatskin. Then, in the thin fog that spread, he pressed Azik's copper whistle over it.
Immediately after that, he placed the white feather stained with pale yellow oil stains inside the silver bowl that had burning herbal powder. He then watched it curl without any signs of it turning black.
After exhaling silently, Klein took a step back and chanted in Hermes:
"You are the essence of death;
"You are the lord of the dead;
"You are the final home to all living beings.
"I pray for your help; I pray for you to tell me the motives for Ince Zangwill's contact with the Numinous Episcopate.
II
II
Just as he said those words, the three candlelight burgeoned as though they brightened significantly but were tainted with a dark green. The surroundings turned cold and creepy.
Klein closed his eyes and entered Cogitation for thirty seconds, feeling uneasy. He walked in front of the altar, picked up the Full Moon Essence Oil and dripped one drop onto each of the three candles.
After doing this, he took away Azik's copper whistle, grabbed the artificial goatskin, and moved it close to the candlelight representing "himself." When it ignited, he threw it into the silver bowl.
With a whoosh, the white feather which didn't show any signs of damage soared with pale-white flames, covering the entire silver bowl and obstructing Klein's vision.
About three seconds later, the fire subsided, leaving a mound of powder in the silver bowl.
The powder moved without the help of any wind, forming one word after another:
"Possessed by an evil spirit. Requires exorcism."
-x-X-x-
... The Goddess really replied... Upon seeing the words formed by the powder, Klein's first reaction had nothing to do with the content. Instead, he was shocked that this seemingly ridiculous thing had happened.
Although he was already mentally prepared and had believed that the chance of success was rather high, he still felt conflicting emotions. It took him almost a minute to accept it.
After a while, Klein exhaled slowly, raised his right hand, and tapped his chest four times in a clockwise manner.
"Praise the Lady!"
He then ended the ritual, forcing himself to focus his attention on the revelation itself.
Possessed by an evil spirit. Requires exorcism?
Ince Zangwill actually got possessed by an evil spirit? He had gone from Sequence 9 to Sequence 5 of the Death pathway. The godhood he obtained at the critical stage is also Sequence 4 Nightwatcher of the Evernight pathway, one that is good at dealing with Spirit Body-type creatures. Evil spirits and wraiths should be afraid of him, so why would he end up being possessed?
That's unless the evil spirit's level is extremely high or, at its core, is very special.
Unfortunately, I've only met one evil spirit in the truest sense of the word. It's that ancient evil spirit sealed in the underground ruins of Alista Tudor. I know little about such monsters, so it's difficult for me to grasp the details. Hmm, I can write to ask Miss Sharron. I can also get Little Sun to find out more. That Shepherd Elder Lovia had Grazed an evil spirit...
It's no wonder Ince Zangwill is trying to meet a demigod of the Numinous Episcopate. When it comes to exorcising evil spirits, aside from the Church of Evernight and Church of the Eternal Blazing Sun, the best would probably be the Numinous Episcopate. Uh, there's probably the Church of the God of Combat as well. Neighboring pathways often have similar traits.
There's also one point that can be gleaned from this. Ince Zangwill doesn't wish for his possessed state to be known by the royal family faction and the Demoness Sect who are in cahoots with him. Otherwise, there's no need for him to come all the way to the Southern Continent! The two factions existed before the Fifth Epoch, and they have a long legacy. It's quite unlikely that they don't have a Sealed Artifact that can remove or exorcise evil spirits. Even if they can't find one, getting the Demoness Sect to contact the Numinous Episcopate is definitely safer and more covert than getting Ince Zangwill to make the trip himself...
As his thoughts raced, Klein unfolded a piece of paper and wrote:
"The intel you have provided me made me connect certain clues from what I've previously gathered. And due to a particular great existence's help, this points to a clear conclusion: @@novelbin@@
"Ince Zangwill is possessed by an evil spirit, and he's seeking the Numinous Episcopate's help.
"Just based on this fact alone, we can make several useful judgments:
"Ince Zangwill will often manifest inconsistency in his words and actions. He will often deviate from his normal path, doing something we feel that is absolutely impossible for him to do, and to make mistakes we find incomprehensible. Before this problem is resolved, he will not stop having contact with the Numinous Episcopate. It might even become more frequent...
"Making investigations based on this might allow us to catch Ince Zangwill by the tail. However, I believe we still wouldn't be able to lock onto him. The creation of coincidences from that Grade o Sealed Artifact is insurmountable."
Upon writing this, Klein couldn't help but recall his direct encounter with Ince Zangwill.
His own investigations didn't directly point to him, but it caused their ploy to nearly fail. Hence, Ince Zangwill personally took action, sending a meteor falling from the sky in an attempt to kill Sherlock Moriarty so as to obliterate any clues. And he ultimately received Mr. Azik's help and escaped the dire situation, forcing Ince Zangwill to step into the limelight and expose himself.
Back then, if Mr. Azik had recovered to his former strength, Ince Zangwill might already be dead... But to replicate such a situation and force him to appear before me is still extremely difficult. After all, back then, not only was there Mr. Azik, a Death Consul, and my use of the gray fog to foil the coincidences, there was also Trissy Cheek and the ring which was suspected to be a Grade o Sealed Artifact. Without her suddenly escaping, Ince Zangwill wouldn't have been forced to personally take action... Klein deliberated as he wrote:
"If we can figure out the origins and primary goals of the evil spirit, there might be a chance of the situation having a favorable change..."
After writing the matters regarding Ince Zangwill, Klein's heart stirred. Just as he was about to mention something else, he stopped his pen after writing the first few letters. He raised his left hand and pinched his cheeks. He appeared to be in a serious dilemma and seemed a little embarrassed.
After muttering silently a few times, Klein finally smoothly wrote the rest:
"Even without that Grade o Sealed Artifact's help, Ince Zangwill is an enemy you and I are unable to face head-on. We need to make plenty of preparations.
"If you can provide me with some Worms of Time, I can use them to create high-level charms that can deal with demigods. It's called a 'Fate Siphon' charm. It can swap the fates of yourself and the target for a short period of time."
Putting down his fountain pen, Klein didn't take a second look as he quickly folded the letter and seriously sealed it in an envelope.
He then took out the adventurer's harmonica and a gold coin before summoning Miss Messenger. He got her to take away the reply letter to Leonard Mitchell, but this time, it wasn't addressed to 7 Pinster Street. Instead, it was directly sent to Leonard's present address. With Leonard having just written the letter, Klein didn't believe that he had moved out of Reinette Tinekerr's detection range.
After doing all of this, Klein heaved a sigh of relief as he shook his head slightly.
Requesting the help of others is really a difficult task. It's even more so for someone as thin-skinned as me.
He quickly retracted his attention and once again modified Enzo's and Ludwell's appearances. After all, they had been seen by Angel of Fate Ouroboros during their exploration of Calderón City.
During this process, Klein suddenly had an idea. He planned on "sending' them above the gray fog and using the Spirit World Plunderer's true soul body for a disguise!
The Spirit World Plunderer could make its soul avatars take the form of its true soul body, and it could also get them to disguise themselves as other spirit world creatures. The Beyonder ingredient it left behind must've had such abilities. However, it would be difficult to use it with the poor effects and the huge negative side effects!
However, this wasn't a problem for Klein who possessed the mysterious space above the gray fog. After all, he didn't plan on using the Beyonder ingredient for actual combat. Doing some changes to his marionette didn't require too many smooth operations and great effects. Furthermore, this could be slowly adjusted. As for the negative effects that came from the godhood, it wasn't something to consider. Who wasn't obedient when left in the junk pile?
After a series of tasks, Klein sat at the high-back chair of The Fool. In his hand was the palm-sized Spirit World Plunderer's true soul body. Without looking down to look at it in detail, he extended his spirituality bit by bit into it.
There wasn't much changes to the scene before him. It was still the illusory and dense black Spirit Body Threads. However, when he tried controlling them, he discovered that not only could he control the marionettes' Spirit Body Threads, but he could also let his Spirit Body Threads extend out and penetrate into their bodies.
When both sides established such a two-way connection, Klein suddenly felt that he and his marionette was one. All his Beyonder powers could be enacted on the other party through the Spirit Body Threads, including his trick for changing his appearance and body!
Amidst a slow and difficult process, Klein felt rather groggy as he felt his emotions turned into a mess. He began showing signs of losing control. This was an inevitable outcome from having his spirituality make direct contact with godhood.
He hurriedly diverted some attention to stir some of the powers of the mysterious space above the gray fog, and he restored his condition back to its normal state.
After enduring the torment, Klein finished his attempt. Enzo had transformed into a Southern Continent native that looked like he came from a plantation. Ludwell had a mixed-blood feel to him. His ghastly face was no longer more bone than flesh. Instead, there was a plumpness to it. As for the silver mask that had the effect of placating the soul, there was no way of removing it for the time being. All Klein could do was let it stick to Ludwell's chest. This still had a certain level of effect, but it was inferior to wearing it on his face. It could barely maintain the status quo.
Unfortunately, there's no way to change this mask into other types of accessories. Otherwise, it would save me quite a bit of trouble. As Klein rushed to throw the Spirit World Plunderer's true soul body back onto the junk pile, he rubbed his temples and allowed his thoughts to wander. Right, I still have a Soul Assurer Beyonder characteristic here that can be made into a mystical item to replace that mask... No, I've always planned on returning it to the Church. I'll mail it to him when Leonard replies.
After the discomfort slowly subsided, Klein took out his golden pocket watch and opened it to check the time.
Following that, he summoned a paper figurine and stirred some of the powers of the mysterious space above the gray fog. He then threw both into a specially labeled point of light.
It was the point of light representing The Fool's only believer at present—Danitz!
From Klein's point of view, Admiral of Stars Cattleya had the Moses Ascetic Order backing her. Vice Admiral Iceberg Edwina was from the Church of Knowledge and Wisdom. Anderson Hood didn't know much about Gehrman Sparrow, and being good at identifying the situation he was in, he wasn't one to put on a brave front. Therefore, when the Aurora Order did an "investigation," it was unlikely that they would be in grave danger. Danitz was the only exception. With him in West Balam and not able to return to the Golden Dream anytime soon, his lacking strength, and him often wearing the boxing glove that made him act rashly, it was truly worrisome.
Due to this fact, Mr. Fool had to work a little harder. He gave Danitz a Paper Angel's embrace every day at a fixed time, so as to disrupt any divination or prophecies about him.
Leonard never expected Klein Moretti to reply that quickly. With some level of incredulity, he opened the envelope and read the corresponding content.
"Due to a particular great existence's help... Is he referring to The Fool?
"Indeed, Klein's investigations into Ince Zangwill has already reached a significant depth. He has already figured out the truth the moment I mentioned the Numinous Episcopate...
"Possessed by an evil spirit? How did he end up being possessed by an evil spirit?
"How do we make use of it?
"Worms of Time... This..." Leonard quickly scanned through the last part of the letter as his expression suddenly became complicated.
In his mind, Pallez Zoroast maintained his silence without saying a word.
-x-X-x-
After a while, Leonard cleared his throat and wore a smile without realizing it. He said with a suppressed voice, "Old Man, Klein's... This suggestion seems pretty good. It's very... very viable. The effects should be quite substantial. Why don't you consider it?
"Didn't you mention that you would do your best to help me exact revenge?
"Haha, I thought Worms of Time could only be used for avatars and act as support..."
He subconsciously droned on while Pallez Zoroast remained silent the entire time. Only after a while did he sigh lightly and say, "I can only give you a maximum of two Worms of Time."
Without waiting for Leonard to say a word, he added, "To exact revenge on a demigod who wields a Grade o Sealed Artifact, the most important thing is still your own level and strength. Otherwise, you won't have a chance of using it even if you have a high-level charm."
Leonard wiped away his smile and nodded seriously.
"I'll do my best digesting my potion.
"If you finish digesting it and fail to accumulate enough contribution points, I'll help you seek out the Beyonder ingredients needed for Spirit Warlock."
As for only having two Worms of Time, he wasn't disappointed at all. It was already a bonus. Just getting one was a great boon. Having two meant that he and Klein could split it, each of them having one Fate Siphon charm.
After expressing his attitude, he asked in puzzlement, "Old Man, do you think Klein has already used the previous Worm of Time as a charm?"
He remembered very clearly that, back when they were figuring out who Emlyn White was supporting, Old Man had parasitized Tinder with a Worm of Time. Later, it lost contact and failed to be of any use. Now, on retrospection, just Emlyn White's and Sherlock Moriarty's close relationship made it easy for him to figure out the truth. The Worm of Time had been eliminated by the upper echelons of the secret organization or even The Fool "Himself." Furthermore, there was a high chance that it had been bestowed to Klein. Otherwise, his former colleague wouldn't have known of the existence of the Worm of Time.
Pallez Zoroast immediately scoffed.
"If he hasn't already used it and seen its effects, why would he raise the issue and ask for more?
"Alright. I need to separate the Worms of Time. This will make me fall asleep for at least two weeks. If you have any questions, find someone to answer them by yourself."
With that said, not giving Leonard a chance to raise further questions, "He" scattered his spirituality and created a blob of light that hung "high" inside Leonard's mind as though "He" didn't wish to speak.
Leonard's instinctive response was to chuckle dryly. He focused his attention back onto the letter from Klein Moretti as he carefully read it again.
Possessed by an evil spirit... The origins and primary goals of the evil spirit...
I don't know much about evil spirits. Nothing comes to mind...
After a few minutes of thought, Leonard took out a matchbox and burned the letter. Then, he left the room which the local Nighthawks had assigned him at the last minute. He came to a room diagonally opposite his and knocked on the door.
Before long, Daly, who hadn't removed her blue eyeshadow and blush, opened the door and pricked up her eyebrows.
"When did a Sleepless have the courage to knock on a lady's door at a time highly associated with a bed?"
"Ahem. I have some questions I'd like to consult you about." Leonard obviously didn't dare respond to Daly's comment as he immediately expressed the reason why he was here.
Daly sized him up and chuckled.
"I'm not responsible for counseling minors."
As she spoke, she made way and allowed Leonard to enter her room.
Without daring to let his eyes wander, he casually pulled a round stool to sit on. He then went straight to the point:
"Ma'am, I'd like to know more about evil spirits.
"You're a Sequence 5 of the Death pathway. You have higher clearance than me. You should know quite a lot."
"Why are you asking me this?" Daly propped herself with her hands on the edge of the table behind her.
Without waiting for him to reply, she continued, "Most evil spirits are the result of dead High-Sequence Beyonders. A small number of them are wraiths who break through various restrictions via using various opportunities.
"The first situation is more common. After High-Sequence Beyonders consume a potion to obtain godhood, their Soul Body would have experienced a mutation. It would be a mutation at their core. This allows their Soul Body to remain even in death or when their powers are dispersed. There will be a certain level of divinity to it, making them rather terrifying. The second situation isn't different on a fundamental level.
"Normally speaking, evil spirits will weaken with the passage of time until they completely dissipate. However, they can also assimilate into the region where they were born, making the spirit world and even the Underworld fuse with it. They then extract power from this to maintain their existence.
"Therefore, many evil spirits have their own territory and active range. It's not that they do not wish to leave, but they can't. The only exception is when they accumulate sufficient power, allowing their existence to experience a fundamental change."
Leonard habitually crossed his right leg over his left and pressed in thought, "Can evil spirits leave their territory by possessing a person?"
"Yes, but ordinary humans and most Beyonders are unable to withstand the extraction effect the evil spirits have on their bodies. They will quickly lose their spirituality and body temperature and be unable to last long." As Daly spoke, she raised her hand to point at herself. "The best method is to rely on Beyonders of the Death pathway. Of course, it has to be at least a Sequence 5, because from Gatekeeper, we will have our own dead spirit prison in our bodies. It can be called a miniature Underworld. It can provide an evil spirit with an adequate environment for their existence. Once you become a Spirit Warlock, you will also have similar powers. However, it will be more about sealing and sleeping than an internal Underworld. Heh heh, those natural spirits and wraiths are truly troublesome when they come in and out."
Ince Zangwill's Sequence 5 is Gatekeeper... It's no wonder that the evil spirit can possess him for long periods of time. Or could it be that he failed at an attempt to enslave an evil spirit? Leonard's thoughts opened up as he immediately made connections.
He deliberated for a few seconds before asking, "What sort of needs does an evil spirit have?"
"Needs? Singing? Dancing? Poetry? Men? Women? The Sea of Stars?" Daly returned with a question, amused.
Leonard realized that his usage of words was problematic as he awkwardly ruffled his hair.
"I mean, what desires will an evil spirit have?"
"That depends on what it desired while it was alive. Typically speaking, the remnant spirit will inherit the original obsessions, without being able to balance it rationally. If it were you, that evil spirit might attempt to write poems, imprison a group of spectators, and seek acknowledgment. Or it will do things in an ostentatious manner like the protagonist of a play," Daly joked. "However, regardless of what it was while it was alive, as long as one becomes an evil spirit, they commonly desire two things."
"What are they?" Leonard turned attentive.
Daly shot a glance at him and said, "First, it's to feed on the souls of living creatures. This can pleasure them, an innate pleasure that stems from the need to maintain their existence. In addition, a large number of souls will allow them to escape the restrictions of their territory and active range. It will replace the power provided by the spirit world and Underworld.
"Second, it's to seek out Beyonder ingredients from their pathway while they were alive. Through this, they could create another foundation. At a certain stage, the evil spirit would no longer need to draw on the powers of the spirit world and Underworld. They would no longer be restricted by their territories or active range. In a sense, they would have transformed into a special spirit world creature."
Leonard seemed to realize something as he thought.
"This also means that evil spirits can consume Sequence potions?"
"No, Sequence potions are created for human consumption. They reduce the risk of losing control. To many supernatural creatures, there's no need to do so. They can directly consume the ingredient raw. It's especially so for evil spirits. Their obsession, cruelty, ferociousness, and penchant for souls make them half-crazy to begin with. There's no need to regulate it from other sources. Furthermore, they are Spirit Bodies, so the method of consumption is direct accommodation and slow digestion." Daly corrected Leonard's point.
This... To the evil spirit that possesses Ince Zangwill, whenever it has the upper hand, it will control the body to seek out Beyonder ingredients of its pathway while it was alive! Leonard was first surprised before he had an idea. He said in a pleasant surprise, "I understand. Thank you for answering my questions." @@novelbin@@
With that said, he hesitated for a few seconds and asked after some deliberation, "Ma'am, I believe we shouldn't just figure out the motives behind Ince Zangwill's meeting with the Numinous Episcopate demigod, but we also need to track his trajectory since Backlund to East Balam. We need to know what he did midway, what items he found. This might lead us to effective clues."
Daly suddenly fell silent before she pricked up her brows and said, "Well said.
"But what does this have to do with evil spirits?"
"...Nothing. I raised the question so as to make preparations because I believe that since we are investigating the Numinous Episcopate, we might encounter evil spirits. The latter half was a suggestion I wished to make after the break. I just wished to talk to you about it beforehand." Leonard's mind raced as he slowed down his speech and fabricated an excuse on the spot.
Daly listened in silence and chuckled.
"If you actually work so hard to fabricate stories in front of other girls, you'll no longer be single with those looks of yours.
"Unfortunately, I'm not a clueless girl. Alright, there's no need to explain further. Leave."
Leonard stood up lamely without trying to emphasize his point. He then walked towards the door.
Just as he gripped the handle, Daly's slightly ethereal voice sounded behind him:
"I don't know what secret you're hiding, nor do I know what you know. None of that matters.
"But when it comes to Ince Zangwill, if you need any help or aid, you can find me."
Leonard paused for two seconds as his mouth quivered. He then pulled open the door and walked out.
City of Silver.
Derrick Berg had received the order to join an expedition team. Leading it was Chief Colin Iliad. Their target was Nois City. It was in a northern city's ruins where the Shapeshifter and other terrifying creatures lived!
-x-X-x-
Ever since the information about the suspected Bizarro Bane-Shapeshifter-was given to Mr. World, Derrick constantly believed that the latter might one day entrust him with a mission for the corresponding ingredients. However, his strength was lacking. Even with his friends, it was impossible for him to complete the hunt. Furthermore, such expeditions needed to go through the six-member council. Private teams were unable to wander too far from the City of Silver. Therefore, all he could do was temporarily suppress it deep down. From time to time, it was used to motivate him to advance quicker.
To his surprise, it didn't take long before an expedition team headed for Nois City was set up. Leading the team was Chief Colin Iliad!
Combining his previous discussion with Mr. Hanged Man, Miss Justice, and company at the recent Tarot Gathering, Derrick quickly came up with a theory:
During the exploration of the former Chief's mausoleum, Mr. Fool had provided a certain level of help to the present Chief, allowing him to foil the Fallen Creator's ploy and successfully resolve certain matters. Hence, noticing his search for information, the Demon Hunter had decided to hunt a Shapeshifter to please the deity!
"This is a necessary way to curry favor, and is also a kind of equivalent exchange..." The Hanged Man's words resounded in Derrick's mind. It made him no longer puzzled over the matter. So, taking the opportunity before he set out, he prayed to Mr. Fool and requested "Him" to inform Mr. World of this expedition.
He quickly received a response and heard Mr. World say:
"... If the hunting of the Bizarro Bane is difficult or dangerous, the requirements can be lowered. Attempt to extract its blood.
"As long as you obtain it, I'll trade for it with the Priest of Light's Beyonder characteristic."
Priest of Light's Beyonder characteristics? Mr. World already has the Priest of Light Beyonder characteristic? Or could it be that he has locked onto a target and will quickly be able to obtain it? With the Chief's strength and the teamwork of the expedition team, there's a high chance of success if it's just extracting the blood... Derrick felt relieved as he held Thunder God's Roar and left his residence, heading straight for the training field.
Just as he arrived at his destination, he saw Chief Colin Iliad. The latter carried two swords on his back. He was tall and staid, leaving anyone who saw him at ease.
And beside this Demon Hunter was another person. She was wearing a black robe with purple patterns, and she had long, curly, silver-gray hair-Shepherd Lovia.
Lovia, who was apparently participating in this expedition, turned her head as her pale gray eyes reflected Derrick Berg's figure. However, there was only calm in her eyes.
Derrick felt a baffling sense of alarm as he involuntarily slowed down his pace.
East Balam, above the gray fog.
Klein deeply approved of the City of Silver's Chief's organization of an expedition to Nois City. He also informed Little Sun that there was no need to take risks. All he needed was some blood of the target for the completion of the mission.
When the time came, he could smear the blood over Groselle's Travels, bring all his gear, and challenge the Bizarro Bane on his turf; thus, obtaining the Beyonder ingredients he needed.
Klein had also considered the possibility of whether Groselle's Travels's ability to swallow people into the book's world was screened by the uniqueness of the Forsaken Land of the Gods. He had also come up with a solution. It was to bestow Little Sun with Groselle's Travels. After achieving the goal, he could get Little Sun to sacrifice it back.
In addition, he wasn't worried about the Bizarro Bane lacking blood because of its nature as a spirit world creature. This was because the Bizarro Sorcerer potion formula clearly wrote:
"Supplementary ingredients: 200 ml of a Bizarro Bane's blood..."
There are always more solutions than problems... Klein muttered in satisfaction before returning to the real world.
Before sleeping, he received a reply from Leonard Mitchell. It mentioned that it would take another day for the Worm of Time, and he described the monsters known as evil spirits in detail.
Another day before it can be provided. And there will be two of them. The grandpa in Leonard's body has quite a good attitude... Unable to leave the territory, limited in activity range... Their common trait is to devour the souls of living creatures and to desire Beyonder ingredients from their pathway from when they were still alive... This also means that the evil spirit will seek out the corresponding ingredients and Beyonder characteristics when it wields control over Ince Zangwill's body. This is indeed a direction for investigation. Klein held the letter as he read and thought.
Suddenly, he recalled something:
Back when he encountered Ince Zangwill on Waypoint Island in the Berserk Sea, the latter had been pursued by a powerful demigod from the Hunter pathway!
Could... Could it be a result of that evil spirit?
I previously imagined that Ince Zangwill had received a commission by some faction in the royal family, and did something that targeted the Intis Republic, only to have a mistake happen; thus exposing himself and getting pursued by their powerhouses...
From the looks of it, there might be another possibility... That evil spirit desires the Beyonder characteristics of the Hunter pathway, and when it could control Ince Zangwill's body, it attempted to hunt Beyonders of the same pathway. This might've succeeded or failed. In short, the result was that he was targeted by a powerful demigod from the Hunter pathway. He pursued him the entire journey with his intuition as a hunter. The more Klein thought about it, the more convinced he was that his theory was close to reality.
This was the only way to explain why Ince Zangwill, who wielded 0-08, was discovered!
At this moment, Enzo and Ludwell were kneeling down, massaging Klein's legs.
I can guess that it's an evil spirit of the Hunter pathway for now. I'll later write back to Leonard and get him to steer the investigations in this direction. Eh, this fellow's acting isn't that great, nor does he have the psychological experience. I wonder if he will end up exposing himself. Perhaps, he will explain it away with some nonexistent informant... Hunter pathway evil spirit. Hunter pathway evil spirit... Klein's eyes suddenly widened as he suddenly sat up, leaving his two marionettes at a loss.
There weren't many evil spirits he knew, and he had only seen one; however, that one happened to be from the Hunter pathway!
It was Red Angel Medici's main body that had combined with the remnant psyches of the two Sequence 1 angel from the Sauron and Einhorn families!
When it came to the Hunter pathway, there was no evil spirit that was of an even higher level. That was unless Blood Emperor Alista Tudor still had his psyche remaining.
Previously, Ince Zangwill was in Backlund. That evil spirit, who I'm not sure if I should call Medici, was also in Backlund.
Later, that evil spirit escaped the seal, and its whereabouts are unknown. As for Ince Zangwill, he suffered from the possession of an evil spirit.
Both sides are evil spirits from the Hunter pathway...
This... Could the one possessing Ince Zangwill be the Red Angel evil spirit? Klein frowned bit by bit, almost finding his theory unbelievable. However, he found it very possible!
As his thoughts raced, he found another indirect piece of evidence:
The unique trait of 0-08 is that once you know it, it will also know you. And as a King of Angels who survived from the Second Epoch, Red Angel Medici probably knows all kinds of details about 0-08!
In other words, as long as the evil spirit attempted to recall anything related to 0-08, 0-08 would know of it and establish a connection.
Right, there was that sentence: "Pleasure working with you" ...No way... But the problem lies in the fact that I previously suspected that evil spirit to have one Sequence 1 characteristic. There's no need for it to seek any more of it. Could it be that it hasn't digested it? Klein rubbed his temples as his head ached. He stood up, entered his bathroom, and took four steps counterclockwise and headed above the gray fog.
Just as he sat down, he conjured a pen and paper and wrote the following divination statement:
"The one possessing Ince Zangwill is the evil spirit back in the underground ruins of Alista Tudor."
He scrutinized each word for a few seconds before taking off the topaz pendant on his left wrist and planned to use spirit dowsing for the divination.
This time, the scene he saw when he opened his eyes @@novelbin@@
was:
The topaz pendant stood still.
This meant that the divination had failed.
The level is too high and there's 0-08. Right, that evil spirit also carried the Red Priest card that has anti-divination and anti-prophecy properties. It's no wonder I failed with the three combined... Hmm, this is also an indirect confirmation. Klein analyzed the reason and considered what other ways he could make a verification.
He tapped his finger on the edge of the long bronze table and silently muttered to himself, Apart from getting Leonard to lead the Red Gloves to do an investigation, I should do something as well...
Assuming that the one possessing Ince Zangwill is really the Red Angel evil spirit, where will it seek out Beyonder ingredients from the Hunter pathway when it gains control of the body?
Intis's capital, Trier? Feysac capital, St. Millom? Or would it solely rely on the Card of Blasphemy's activation and seal in order to use the law of Beyonder characteristic convergence to attract Beyonders to fly to it like moths flying to a fire?
Wait, it mentioned before that the descendants of the Medici family are in Bansy Harbor.
Although it has already been destroyed, there might still be something buried there!
Also, the evil spirit with the three angels' remnant spirit has very potent provocative traits. This matches Leonard's description of evil spirits in the letter. It might've deliberately left something in Bansy...
With this in mind, Klein immediately conjured The World Gehrman Sparrow's figure and requested The Hanged Man to head to Bansy once more to do a more thorough investigation.
After doing that, Klein began contemplating. Once he confirmed that Ince Zangwill had the Red Angel evil spirit in him, he wondered if he could use the law of Beyonder characteristic convergence as a starting point, enticing "Ince Zangwill" into the trap he set up using the corresponding ingredients.
Hunter pathway... Hunter pathway... Amidst his thoughts, Klein suddenly recalled two Hunters who were loitering in West Balam.
He frowned slightly and began analyzing.
Although East Balam and West Balam are vast territories, and the distance between the city that Ince Zangwill made his last appearance and the Northern State is very great, he will probably take nearly half a month to travel, even as a demigod since he doesn't have Teleport. In theory, Danitz and Anderson will not suddenly encounter the Red Angel evil spirit because of the law of convergence. Also, their Sequences are too low, but I can't be too sure...
West Balam, Northern State, Cookawa City.
Danitz shot a glance at Anderson and blurted out.
"I'm going to do some investigations. Why are you following me?
"Logically speaking, shouldn't you head back to the Fog Sea at Behrens Harbor?"
-x-X-x-
Anderson, who was enjoying a piece of cream cassava bread, looked up at Danitz. Seemingly in thought, he said, "I'm not sure why, but I don't wish to leave West Balam. Haha. Since I'm here, as a treasure hunter, how can I return empty-handed?
"In the extensive forests, there are all sorts of abandoned temples that have gold, jewelry, antiques, and maybe mystical items. All of them are waiting for me to rescue them!"
Danitz tipped his chin and guzzled down the remaining Gwadar.
This was a beverage made from a fruit native to West Balam. It was orange-yellow in color with a sweetness amidst its sourness. It was good at quenching thirst and relieving heat. It also had some caffeine that allowed people to combat fatigue and stay awake.
Putting down the cup and picking up his napkin to wipe his mouth, Danitz scoffed.
"I keep feeling as though you're up to something."
"I also hope that's the case," Anderson said with an unconcerned smile.
He matched breakfast with coffee.
In East and West Balam, there were many excellent coffee-bearing lands. They were just slightly less famous than Feynapotter's highlander coffee, the Southern Continent's highlander coffee, and the Star Highlands and the nearby Paz Valley's Fermo coffee.
Without waiting for Danitz's reply, Anderson said with a smile, "Actually, isn't this good? I'm providing you with free protection, and you're my interpreter. Everyone benefits out of this arrangement."
Recalling that he was only a Sequence 7 and was wanted by all kinds of factions, Danitz had a baffling feeling that Anderson's words made sense.
He coughed slightly and said, "But there will be certain times when I'll get you to stay away."
"If you say 'please,' then there's no problem," Anderson said in a relaxed manner.
Danitz immediately hooded himself and walked towards the hotel's exit in preparation to begin today's investigations.
Midway, he suddenly said, "Have you had such an experience? Often dreaming of an angel's descent, wrapping you in its layered wings.
"No, it's not only a dream. I occasionally will have the same hallucination even when I'm awake."
Anderson glanced at the boxing glove Danitz was wearing. After pondering for a few seconds, he said with a smile, "Are you a believer of some secret existence?
"Or have you made contact with some ancient item?"
Danitz's expression froze as he forced a smile.
"If it were as simple as you said, I would've long guessed the reason!"
As he spoke, he brushed shoulders with the three men who came in before walking out.
Anderson habitually sized up the passersby to confirm his surroundings. Therefore, he glanced at the three men and realized that they were a master and two servants. The master was tall and his skin was brown. He had soft facial features, as though he had parents from Balam and Loen. He wore attire in the style of the Northern Continent-silk top hat, black formal suit, and a gold inlaid cane.
The two servants were standard locals that seemed to come from plantations. They were helping their master hold his cane and leather suitcase. One of them was a mixed-blood with a fleshy face and baggy clothes. On his waist was a rapier, as though he was also playing the role of a bodyguard.
Unconcerned, Anderson retracted his gaze and followed Danitz onto the street.
He pointed at the different-styled coffins that were horse-drawn or manually lifted with piqued interest.
"Want to try one of those?
"It's very interesting. Once you get used to it, you will realize that death isn't something to be afraid of. Perhaps you might be able to open the lid at some point in time and stand up again."
Danitz looked at the strange transportation tool through the corner of his eyes as he didn't hesitate to shake his head.
"As a pirate, I more or less believe in the Lord of Storms. Certain things are taboo, and one of them is to stay away from coffins."
"I'm different. I don't have any taboos." Anderson casually took out a few Delexi and bought a few sets of newspapers from the paperboy on the street.
It had to be said that when it came to paperboys, the various cities in the Southern Continent weren't inferior to the Northern Continent. After all, manual labor was cheaper, and there were many children who needed to supplement their family's income.
As Danitz walked to the end of the street in search of a carriage meant for foreigners, he took a copy of the newspapers from Anderson and quickly browsed through it.
Suddenly, he noticed a piece of news:
"...Infamous pirate who calls himself Admiral Hell, Ludwell, has been killed by the crazy adventurer, Gehrman Sparrow. His Black Tulip and entire crew has been taken over by Mirella who claims to be Death's Envoy..."
"This..." Danitz's mouth turned slightly agape, and he was hardly able to close it.
He finally understood why Gehrman Sparrow wanted him to be careful of the Numinous Episcopate!
This lunatic had actually killed the strongest of the seven pirate admirals, Ludwell!
About ten seconds later, Danitz handed the newspapers to Anderson with a dazed expression.
"Take a look at this."
Anderson received the newspaper with a smile and quickly scanned through it.
After a brief silence, he whistled and chuckled.
"That fellow likely has a new nickname:
"Pirate Admiral Nemesis!"
Danitz didn't dare to nod as he poignantly said, "Back when I first met him, although I already found him terrifying, I never expected him to be this terrifying."
At this moment, he recalled his early attempts of recruiting Gehrman Sparrow as a sailor of the Golden Dream.
And while they left the hotel, Klein had already taken up residence in a luxurious room. He was standing by the window, watching the two Hunters who were being flippant while walking.
Rubbing the cufflink on his sleeves, he unfolded the letter and wrote:
"...I suspect that the evil spirit that possesses Ince Zangwill is from the Hunter pathway. You can carry out more investigations in this regard.
"...Along with this letter is a Soul Assurer's Beyonder characteristic. It comes from a pitiful person who was Grazed. I liberated him and promised to return his characteristic to the Church of Evernight."
In East Balam, having just prepared to join the morning meeting, Leonard suddenly saw the angel messenger who wielded four blonde, red-eyed heads appear before him. @@novelbin@@
Already used to this, he received the letter and opened it and gave it a glance. He was surprised to see an item as resplendent as the night sky.
This is... Leonard had an inkling as to what the item was. He hurriedly unfolded the letter and read it.
Twenty seconds later, he slowly sighed and silently said, As expected, it's a Beyonder characteristic.
Klein is still very friendly to the Church and the Nighthawks...
He was rather delighted as he took out two transparent dead, ringed worms and placed it in that envelope. He then summoned Gehrman Sparrow's messenger, handed it to her, and paid the one gold coin.
After doing this, Leonard loosened the top buttons of his shirt, walked out the room, and headed underground
On the way, he encountered Daly Simone.
Still dressed as a Spirit Medium, Daly looked forward and asked very normally, "Any new clues?"
"...It's suspected to be an evil spirit of the Hunter pathway." Leonard fell silent for two seconds before he decided against concealing the matter.
Daly nodded indiscernibly and said after some thought, "Then it might have the instinct of being provocative. It will proactively leave clues for us. Of course, this might also contain some level of misdirection to it."
Knock. Knock. Knock. Someone knocked at the captain's cabin of the Blue Avenger.
"Come on in," Alger put down the brass sextant in his hand and said in a deep voice.
A sailor opened the door and looked back. With the urging of his companions, he hesitantly entered the room and struck his left breast with his right fist and bowed.
"Holy Lord of Storms!"
After Alger did the same response, he forced a smile and said, "Captain, many pirates and sailors from merchant ships have been recently saying that they found valuable items in the ruins of Bansy Harbor. There was even gold.
"We don't have any particularly important missions recently, so everyone is wondering if we should make another trip to Bansy. Such a bustling harbor, even if it has been searched numerous times, it should still have plenty of things left..."
Alger listened with a deadpan expression. After a few seconds of thought, he said, "I can understand your feelings. Let's do this. Let's head in the direction of Bansy Harbor, but do not set a destination. If nothing happens midway, we will stay there for a day."
"Aye-aye, Captain." The sailor excitedly clenched his right fist and struck his left breast again. "May the Storm be with you..."
"May the Storm be with you..." Alger watched as his subordinate left and closed the door.
Then, as though nothing had happened, he poured himself a cup of Lanti Proof without any joy or anger as he sipped it slowly.
Whatever that had just happened was within his expectations. This was because the news of finding items of value in Bansy Harbor's ruins was something he had spread while disguised.
As a captain of the Church of Storms, he was constantly monitored by his sailors. Having been to Bansy once, mentioning it again made it suspicious. Therefore, Alger decided on getting the crew to make the request themselves!
That way, even if they discovered anything or encountered something at Bansy Harbor, no one would suspect him, the Captain.
To the sailors, especially sailors who had just spent all their money in Bayam, any news or rumors with sufficient allure would stir their hearts the most. Alger knew this very well.
In addition, the Blue Avenger had stayed in Bayam for too long. If he hadn't set sail, it would also be suspicious.
As for monitoring Artisan Cielf, it was naturally left to The Hermit Cattleya. Due to the "investigations" of the Aurora Order, this pirate admiral and the Future had recently been hanging around the Rorsted Archipelago. It was said to be an important base of the Moses Ascetic Order.
After drinking the liquor, Alger put down his cup and looked out at the undulating waves and silently said a word:
"Bansy..."
Considering how it was late June, and will Auceptin's birthday was still unclear, Klein did some reorganization before heading above the gray fog to bring the radio transceiver back to the real world. He also warned himself that he could only ask a maximum of two questions.
In the room that suddenly turned gloomy and cold, the unmanned transceiver began producing clicking voices.