Defiance of the Fall

Luckily the wait wasn't long , as two assistants produced a massive shield that thumped down on the ground with enough force to cause the whole scene to shake slightly . The shield itself was more of a large heater shield compared to the huge spiked scutum he used until it broke .

It was made from some material that Zac couldn't recognize , but it obviously was extremely heavy . It looked like a bit like carbon fiber ingrained with streaks of copper . Only the core was a bit different as it was covered in dense white fractals that formed a circle . It didn't have the same ferocity as his old shield but Zac could tell it was of much higher quality .

Next up is this spectacular item wrought from almost pure Neprosium that has been treated with expert care to provide the highest standards in durability and regeneration , - the auctioneer said with a smile as she held her hand on the anthracite and copper shield .

What do you think this item would go for? - Zac asked with a low voice .

It doesn’t have an attunement and it's not a Spirit Tool , but the material it’s made of is extraordinary . A piece of raw Neprosium that large would alone cost hundreds of millions of Nexus Coins . I don’t understand why someone would use such a large piece to create a normal shield . The creator will risk making a loss , - Galau said bafflement . - Neprosium is rare , and it's a popular material in defensive treasures . -

Perhaps the craftsman had a quest or an inspiration , - Ogras shrugged . - They made it for the experience rather than money . I would say you will have to fork out at least 700 million if you want this . People would be willing to pay over 5-600 million just to melt it down for the materials . -

The creator named this shield Everlasting] , and I can inform you that it is the only shield appearing in today’s auction . I am sure many of you are a bit confused as to why a blacksmith chose to make this item , - the auctioneer said with a smile , playing on the suspense in the room .

The name made Zac strongly resonate with it . It not only reminded him of the ancient protector in his Dao Vision , but it also indicated that it would be able to take blow after blow . Wasn't that just what he needed?

Truthfully it is a failed item . The creator wished to create a mighty Spirit Tool but it wasn't to be , and it ended up a normal shield without a soul . However , the creator felt it was still an item of beauty , and chose to sell it rather than reforging it , - the auctioneer continued .

So that's why the materials used are so damn expensive , - Ogras muttered . - But that blacksmith seems a bit loony to not repurpose the materials . -

The extravagant choice of material puts it at the very peak of E-Grade items , something that you will not encounter more than once . This , combined with Neprosium’s inherent ability to take in and even strengthen almost any attunement , makes the shield the ultimate companion for any warrior used to the vanguard , - the auctioneer finished her introduction . - Perhaps you can even upgrade it to a true Spirit Tool in the future! -

Turning a mundane tool into a Spirit Tool is extremely difficult , - Galau whispered when he saw Zac’s interested expression . - But what she said about Neprosium is true . It is a really high-quality material . But you should know that Neprosium doesn’t mix well with a lot of materials , which might make it a picky eater when you try to upgrade it even if you manage to bring it to life . -

Zac slowly digested the information as he took a look at his savings before making a decision . As long as the shield didn’t become too expensive he would buy it . The inherent quality of the material might come in handy in the future , as he walked the path of both life and death . This shield might be usable in both his forms , something that was hard to find .

The starting bid is 400 million Nexus Coins , - the Auctioneer said . - Minimum increase is 25 million . -

That price was already well over what many of the earlier Spirit Tools sold for , but the bidding immediately pushed the price to 500 million . Zac guessed that those bids were mainly from people who wanted the shield for the material , as the bidding drastically slowed down after having passed the value of the Neprosium itself .

However , it did steadily keep climbing in price , something that seemed to surprise the demon .

I was wrong , - Ogras whistled . - It might even pass a billion . -

Shields are rare , - Galau explained . - Not many use them , and they are hard to make . So few are produced , creating a bidding war when a good one finally appears . Besides , Tool Spirits aren't as important for shields as for weapons . The weapon’s Tool Spirit can increase your lethality to a large degree , but a Spirit Tool shield is mostly better at regenerating itself after taking damage . That's something Neprosium is already extremely good at by itself . -

Zac waited for a bit longer , but when the price rose to 800 million he immediately increased the bid with 100 million nexus coin hoping to dissuade the competition . But only a few seconds passed until another person raised it with 25 million , at which point Zac raised it to a billion . This repeated twice until he finally bid 1 . 2 billion while his stomach was churning due to the price they had reached .

It was a huge sum for Zac who had felt the pinch when spending a few million on the creator vessels just a few months back . A billion nexus coins would be able to pay for all the expenses of his Academy for years , perhaps decades , but it wasn't even enough for a single item here . It was truly a rich man's game .

1 . 2 Billion? Anyone? - the auctioneer smiled as he looked around . - Remember , the shield might not have an attunement right now , but who knows what will happen when you manage to upgrade it . -

It was the most expensive treasures sold so far by over 600 million nexus coins , but it still wasn’t any record-breaking amount . She was obviously trying to push the price a bit further with all kinds of exclamations .

Gaining an attunement during evolution? - Ogras snorted in derision . - How often are people that lucky? And you need to make it a Spirit Tool First . -

Galau didn’t say anything , but he nodded in agreement , proving that it was truly just a sales trick . Zac felt pretty annoyed as he inwardly cursed the woman to close the auction . Luckily no one else fell for the auctioneer’s exhortations , and Zac successfully won the bid .

Time passed and the item got more and more impressive , but neither Zac nor Ogras bid anymore . The last section only had ten items , each one of them going for well over 1 billion nexus coins . The final treasure was actually an urn from the Limitless Empire , an item predating even the System itself .

It did emit a trace of spirituality , but Zac couldn’t tell if there was anything special about it . It had just been excavated from an unknown Mystic Realm according to the Auctioneer , and the method to unseal it was unknown . Perhaps a great treasure waited inside , or perhaps it was just wine that went bad billions of years ago .

The urn eventually went to a lady sitting on one of the top platforms for the staggering price of 47 Billion Nexus coins . The only reason Zac even knew that was because she had entered an open bidding war against a young man sitting on another of the platform .

That’s some gamble , - Ogras muttered . - Or perhaps she just collects those things . -

Zac could only shake his head in bemusement . Life truly wasn’t fair .

Unfortunately there were no soul-mending pills or treasures on today’s auction unless one of the unknown treasures had such capabilities , but the haul wasn’t bad overall . Zac had already received his items in the intermissions so the group didn’t need to stay behind to complete any transactions .

I’m sorry that you didn’t find the thing you were looking for . But don’t worry , it’s only been a day . There will be many more opportunities , - Galau said after they had exited the venue . - How about I treat you two to dinner to cheer everyone up? -

Zac wasn’t really in the mood , but Ogras preceded him to graciously accept , loosely mentioning a certain restaurant that he had heard quite a few good things about . Judging from Galau’s face that place was obviously expensive , but he quickly recovered and led the two there . He even went so far as to book a private booth for the three of them and ordered a large set of dishes and drinks for the three .

So , I guess it’s about time you explain why you’ve been following us , - Ogras said after they sat down by their table . - If you plan to rob us you should understand by now we aren’t that wealthy . -

I don’t harbor any malicious thoughts! - Galau said hurriedly , his eyes darting back and forth between the two . - But truthfully there is a matter where I require your help . I need assistance in climbing the tower . -

It's a carry after all? But why us though? We are completely unknown , and you don’t know our strength , - Ogras asked skeptically .

That’s part of the point , - Galau sighed . - I need to reach at least the thirtieth level without it being obvious I was carried . Preferably even higher . -

Thirtieth level? - Ogras muttered . - It’s a pretty hard carry , but nothing impossible for the stronger people who offer services like that . Why not just go to them? Are you trying to get a cheaper deal? -

I am afraid my family will find out from one of my cousins who is also here , - Galau sighed . - The point of me climbing is to gain more freedom , but it will become invalid if this gets found out . But if I simply enter with a few unknown friends I made while dining out it will be harder to prove that I was carried through . -

I have a decent chance of taking on the 3rd-floor challenge with the help of my saved-up treasures , but I doubt I would be able to climb any further after that , - Galau admitted . - But I need to reach at least the 30th level to achieve my dream . -

What? Why? - Zac asked with confusion . - It’s just a title , and isn't it based on the floor rather than level? As long as you pass the third floor aren't you fine? -

Because I wish to become an appraiser and run a store , - Galau said , an unfamiliar sense of determination appearing on his usually timid face .

Zac was completely stumped , and he looked over at Ogras to see he could follow what was going on . But the demon looked just as confused as himself , and he had even frozen mid-bite .

What the hell had reaching the 30th level to do with opening up a store?

Chapter 390 - Balance

It turned out that Galau’s family was a stuffy old martial clan that almost exclusively raised warriors for the Allbright Armies or adventurers who explored wild Mystical Realms on behalf of their owners . Galau’s ancestor was one of the 7 grand elders in the family , and the pressure was on him to carry on the legacy .

However , Galau had become enamored with buying and selling artifacts after having handled the inventory that his clansmen had gathered while traveling or fighting wars . He had asked for permission to set up a store , but the elders had denied his request .

Why say no? - Zac asked with confusion . - Sounds like opening up a side-business would only be good for the family . Cutting out the middle-man . -

For one it’s about legacy , but it’s also an undeniable fact that families with a stricter focus are more likely to progress , no matter if it's on the martial path of business ventures , - Galau sighed . - The ancestors are all dreaming of rearing a C-Grade Powerhouse that can elevate the clan , so they do everything in their power to raise promising warriors . Especially us in the main branch . -

What does this have to do with reaching the 30th level? - Ogras asked .

I wanted to change profession , giving up the martial path . That would generally see as a sign of weakness , or that I was giving up . It might affect my whole branch negatively . But my Ancestor eventually gave me an ultimatum after I kept pestering my elders . He told me to reach the 30th level in my upcoming visit to this place , to prove that I did have the power to proceed on the martial path if I wanted to . -

But you don’t , - Ogras laughed .

So you want to trick your grandpa and your clan to let you do whatever you want? - Zac added with a raised brow .

Well… Essentially , yes , - Galau coughed . - And that’s why I need to use this circuitous method to not get caught . -

Zac looked over at Ogras to get his opinion . The demon only shrugged in response , meaning he didn’t see any issues with the proposal , and Zac felt the same way . It was a bit shady , but that wasn’t really their problem . Carrying one person to the 30th level shouldn’t be too difficult , especially since it was just the early stage of the 4th floor .

But why us? - Ogras repeated . - You haven’t explained that part . -

Because there is no fear in your eyes , - Galau finally said after a short pause . - The biggest asset to becoming a successful business owner is to have an understanding of people , and I believe this is an area where I shine . It’s something that has allowed me to triple the wealth I brought with me , as I was able to sniff out those who lied about their products or were desperate to gain a quick buck . -

I have observed the warriors who have come and gone the past months , and most carry a well-hidden fear in their hearts as they carry themselves here . It’s natural , this town is full of hidden dragons and people don’t have their elders to protect them . Even the Tower itself brings a real risk of death even with its protective measures . -

But you two are completely unafraid , and I know it’s not due to stupidity as with some , - Galau continued , his speech increasing in fervor as he turned to Ogras . - The two of you seem to take this as a stroll in the park , not even flinching when you saw those scary people sitting on the floating platforms . This makes me sure you are dark horses , the people I’ve been waiting for over the past months . You surely have the capabilities to reach the fourth floor . -

Neither denied the claims since what he said was essentially accurate . Zac didn’t worry about some people causing problems , as he felt confident in rebuffing most people when he had the System on his side . There was the risk of running into someone with top tier E-Grade arrays , but it was doubtful that anyone would throw those items around on some random person who kept to himself .

And even if they did he still had Loamwalker] to get away in an instant in case someone took out an unknown crystal . He felt confident in surviving at the edge of even a top tier array thanks to his defensive skill and a massive pool of Endurance .

When neither Ogras nor Zac spoke up Galau's eyes lit up in delight , but Zac felt a bit sorry for the guy . He had a feeling that Galau's plan was bound to go awry . Who would believe that Galau's accomplishment was his own after Zac elicited a projection from something above the fifth floor?

But Zac needed the money , so he could only hope the effect of making the acquaintance of someone like himself would make up for Galau's plans . Besides , he never mentioned any stipulations about him or Ogras not being allowed to ascend too far .

So what are you ready to pay for bringing you to the 30th level? - Ogras asked , making Zac lock onto Galau with interest as well .

How about 3 billion Nexus Coins to take me to the 30th level? Each , of course , - Galau said . - And we can negotiate an additional price for taking me even further when we get there . -

Ogras’ eyes glistened with greed , and Zac saw that he was about to agree without hesitation . But there was something else that Zac needed even more than money at the moment , and an aspiring merchant like Galau might be just the right person to ask for it .

Throw in a Dao Treasure for each of us as well , and you have a deal , - Zac said , receiving an enthusiastic nod from the demon .

Two Dao Treasures , - Galau muttered , looking a bit pained . - Fine , but you’ll need to take me to the 32nd floor then . -

The two mulled it over for the fraction of a second before they immediately stretched out their hands to seal the deal .

Agreeing to carry Galau to the 30th floor would essentially double Zac’s and Ogras’ wealth , and the two ate until they barely could move in order to celebrate . The restaurant that Ogras recommended had a non-combat class Chef that brought out amazing dishes that all contained a high amount of Cosmic Energy .

These dishes didn’t give any temporary boosts to increase their attributes or anything like that , but they were far tastier than anything Zac had ever eaten before . Zac finally understood why Ogras kept calling Earthlings country bumpkins , and he wasn’t sure how he would go back to eating some crude meals he had thrown together himself .

Nurturing a proper Chef became one of his side-missions after that evening .

Zac spent the next few days walking around the Base town to search for items that could help his force . With the extra cash infusion from the surprisingly wealthy Galau he had some wiggle room to buy more than the bare essentials .

He first purchased a large number of low-grade talismans from a reputable store . Each one cost less than 100 000 Nexus Coins , but they would perhaps be able to save the lives of his elites in case of a crisis back on Earth . He also cleaned up a sizeable number of herbs on Calrin’s List of things they needed to create medicinal baths on a large scale .

He even found a small stack of Sky Reed] that were almost as aged as the other three herbs he gathered during the hunt , which meant that he now had all the needed ingredients to concoct more Four Gates Pills] . Unfortunately still couldn’t find any medicine that could help with Alea’s situation . Many of the better stores had items that could mend a wounded soul , but a fractured one was something else entirely .

There also weren’t any Dao Treasures available , which wasn’t too surprising . If anyone had one they would eat it themselves to improve their strength before the Tower . Some did appear during auctions according to Galau , but they were amongst the most fiercely contested items , turning insanely overpriced .

Everyone wanted to have a couple of Dao Treasures on hand in case someone elicited a grand projection . A single projection alone usually wasn't enough to form or upgrade a seed , but there was a decent chance if you also had a treasure to help out .

So Zac could understand the scarcity , but it did put a damper on his goal of forming another Fragment before leaving the Tower of Eternity . He could only put his hopes on Galau’s ability to sniff two of them out .

Ogras bought a few items as well , including things that would help out with his progress after evolving . But Zac guessed that the demon already had quite a few such resources in his possession , given by his grandfather . He should have planned on evolving soon after arriving at Earth , but was delayed by various reasons .

Galau was actually the one who bought most of them all , but what he bought during their visits to stores and the open bazaars were completely random . He explained that the items weren’t for himself , but things he felt he could make money on either here or when he returned to the Allbright Empire .

Zac spent the nights sitting on his prayer mat , working his hardest to meditate on the Dao . The atmosphere wasn’t quite as good as Earth , but it was far better than the Eastern Trigram Sect . That place was completely devoid of spirituality , but he felt he still could progress his Dao here . He also had the tower to help , and he had already seen three projections , though they were of the lowest kind that didn't provide too much .

On the sixth night he took a break as Ogras had brought over some expensive Spiritual Wine . The two sat and enjoyed the evening breeze in the courtyard , gazing up at the sky . The stars were unfamiliar and massive nebulas painted the sky into a mesmerizing haze . It was a poignant reminder of how far away from Earth and its struggles he was at the moment .

This is the life , - Ogras sighed in contentment , the tranquility of the night affecting him .

Is this what life is like for those who stand at the top? Those who are part of established forces? - Zac asked , somewhat rhetorically .

Not in clan Azh’Rezak at least , - Ogras sighed as he took a sip , some wistfulness apparent in his eyes . - There was always struggle , though a different kind compared to the one we face now . But the moment that we as a family relaxed we would be eaten by one of many forces in the surroundings who lusted for our land or our inheritance . I think it’s like that everywhere . -

Struggle? - Zac asked with some despondency creeping into his heart .

Balance , - Ogras answered . - The universe is a lawless place , where might makes right . Our kingdoms , empires , galaxies are in a state of a delicate balance that keeps a semblance of peace . But a small ripple will topple that balance , and bloodshed will invariably follow . -

Zac understood what he meant . The moment a clan or sect declined , like through the passing of an ancestor , it would be under constant threat of annihilation . This worked the other way as well . If a true powerhouse emerged in a family it would likely set out on a path of conquest to sustain that person’s continued cultivation and to raise the standard of their progeny .

Any change would result in lines being redrawn and blood spilled until a balance was restored .

Balance… - Zac echoed , as his eyes slightly glazed over .

The solemn atmosphere was suddenly ruined by the frazzled entrance of Galau as he almost fell through the door to the courtyard .

He’s about to emerge! - Galau panted .

What? Who? - Zac asked with some annoyance .

Reoluv Er Suriav Prehavandar Dravorak , - Galau said in one breath .

Did you just cast a curse on us? - Ogras muttered with a raised brow .

No that’s his name , - Galau said , almost jumping back and forth in impatience . - The Dravorak Dynasty is over 100 million years old , and it is the Imperial family of an Empire that is at least as strong as my Allbright Empire . I just found out that he entered the tower yesterday . -

And this Reoluv is part of this family? - Zac asked , still not understanding what the big deal was .

The Dravorak seemed like a huge force , but there were a few of them around , especially around the core of the town .

Reoluv is the 15th and youngest son of the current reigning Emperor , born from the Emperor’s favorite wife . He is someone who has received an entire Empire’s blessings and resources . More importantly , he’s supposed to be extremely talented , and he is a strong contender for the throne even though one of his brothers already has broken through to C-Grade , - the young man continued . - Rumors are that the previous Emperor has taken him on as a direct disciple . -

This all sounds very impressive , but what does that have to do with us? - Zac asked , still confused .

But Ogras’ eyes suddenly widened , and he looked up toward the sky surrounding the tower .

A Dao Mirage , - Ogras muttered before turning back toward Galau . - Which level? -

There is no doubt that he will pass the 6th floor , with some even saying that he has the power to reach the later levels of the 7th floor . But most are hesitant whether he would actually be able to pass the 7th floor’s final challenge on the 63rd level since that hasn’t happened for thousands of years , - Galau said .

Dao Mirage , haven't we already seen a few? - Zac asked . - What's the big deal? -

Yeah , but that was one of the worst ones . If this Reoluv crashes through to the end of the 7th floor you have a chance of actually breaking through your Dao Seeds . Meditating under the vision from the 7th floor is almost the equivalent of an epiphany , - Galau excitedly said as he took out two boxes .

These are two Dao Treasures I promised . I was planning on presenting these after the climb , but this opportunity is too rare to miss , - Galau said .

Chapter 391 - The Eight Calamities

You're not worried we will take the Dao Treasures and run? - Zac couldn't help but ask . - Don't you need them for yourself? -

Dao Treasures were obviously hard currency here , especially now that some bigshot was about to emerge from the tower . Giving them out like this was to give up on either an opportunity for himself , or the chance to sell the treasures outside for a huge mark-up .

I am sure I can trust in your character . Besides , I have managed to get my hands on a few more , - Galau said , but he quickly followed up with another sentence when he saw Zac and Ogras' eyes light up with avarice . - I can't part with those though . They're for my family members and myself after I've broken through . -

Do you even need Dao seeds if you want to become a merchant? - Ogras smiled . - Why not part with a few more of them? -

The Dao is important for non-combat classes as well! - Galau said as he took a step back . - It can help us in all kinds of ways just like with a warrior . Besides , I plan on becoming a hybrid class at least for E-Grade . -

Thank you , we'll remember this favor , - Zac nodded as he took out his prayer mat .

Time was of the essence so he immediately rotated his Cosmic Energy through his pathways a few rounds to clear out the lingering effects of the alcohol . The sky was still the same beautiful spectacle of shimmering stars , and the three silently looked up at the scenery in silence as the minutes passed .

The ethereal mindset as when he gazed upon the skies earlier soon returned , and he felt like he was on the verge of something . He didn’t try to force it though , and rather let the feeling naturally stir and grow in his mind .

The tranquility of the night was suddenly broken as a massive titan appeared in the space behind the tower . It stood thousands , perhaps tens of thousands , meters tall , and seemed to be completely wrought out of metal . However , it was clearly not a golem or puppet , but rather a projection of a being made from flesh and blood . It just had a bluish tint like zinc or osmium .

Its head and torso were mostly obscured by the tower itself as it actually stood behind the structure and didn't move , and Zac could only see the sides of the behemoth . That was just fine for Zac as his eyes were glued to the things that it carried in its hands that each was as large as an island . The Titan actually possessed eight arms , each one bare and bulging with muscles , and each hand held a mysterious object .

Most of the treasures did not seem to match the gruff and bulky figure of the Titan , but Zac looked at each and every one of them seriously . One hand held a flute made from a golden metal , and Zac felt like he saw a meteor shower when his eyes locked onto it . Another hand gripped a fan as large as a mountain , seemingly capable of causing a hurricane with a wave .

There was also a burning sword , a castanet crackling with terrifying bolts of lightning , a calabash releasing the sounds of a raging ocean . One hand even held a drum shaped like a volcano , emitting a fiery glow that reminded him of his visit to the magma world and the Fire Golems .

But his eyes only briefly swept over these items before they stopped at the two hands that each held a flower . One was a large Basket Flower , and it swayed as the Titan held onto its long stalk . The air around it seemed to be vibrating to the point space itself cracked .

Zac’s eyes finally landed on the last item , a single lotus flower . His thoughts initially went to the massive lotus that was in the Abbot’s possession , but he immediately realized the thing in front of him was in a completely different league . This was a grand treasure of the universe , containing endless power .

Its attunement seemed to be completely different from the Abbot’s lotus as well , and its purple leaves emitted a chilling sense of death and putrefaction . It didn’t feel like it released toxic plumes , but that it was pestilence itself .

There was something mesmerizing about the lotus , making Zac unable to move his eyes away . He barely had enough presence of mind to quickly cram his Dao Treasure into his mouth . His consciousness started to wander , and his vision was closing in on him . Just as he was about to drift away he heard the seemingly distant voice of Galau speak up in a daze .

It’s The Eight Calamities! -

Zac had no time to react before his whole being was consumed by the Lotus flower . His vision suddenly changed to show a battlefield where two endless armies fought . One army looked a bit like the lizardmen of the church , but they were more akin humanoid dragons . The other force were actual cyclops , each reaching over a hundred meters in height .

At first glance it might have been a foregone conclusion that the lizardmen who only seemed to reach two to three meters in height would be hopelessly outmatched , but reality proved different . The warriors somehow summoned , or more likely used massive war arrays to conjure , fiery dragons to battle their enormous foes .

The battlefield stretched into the horizon , and it felt like thousands of warriors died every minute , and the corpses created mountains of the unwilling dead . The resentment in the air was palpable , and it only grew worse as the war raged on for years and years . The losses were uncountable , and the boundless world itself was teetering on collapse from the accumulated resentment .

Terrible maladies sprouted due to the sea of corpses , and but the armies seemed to be possessed , ignoring their increasingly horrific bodies as they transformed and mutated from the corruption in the air .

A small purple flower quietly floated in a turbid pool of blood , hidden in one of the largest corpse mounds on the planet . It consumed the energies of everything around it and steadily gained power as the war raged on . The massacre only got worse , but the diseases and resentment oddly enough disappeared over time , and suddenly it was as though a spell had been broken .

The war stopped , all thanks to a blood-drenched lotus having eaten its fill .

The grand generals , each one a Peak C-Grade warrior at the least , called for a ceasefire . Everyone seemed to be horrified by their actions and looked as though they were walking in a living nightmare . Their eyes turned toward the thousands of corpse-mountains as immense regret gripped their hearts . It looked like they wanted nothing more than get away from this cursed world that had whipped them into a murderous frenzy , yet they stayed on .

They eventually found the reason for their salvation , a large purple lotus that rested in the middle of an ocean of blood . It had taken on their sins , their resentment , and their ailments , giving the two races a chance at survival . The generals bowed toward the grand treasure in reverence , no one having any ideas of taking it for themselves .

However , things suddenly took a disturbing turn as large welts started to appear on the people around the flower . Just a second later flesh was dripping off everyone’s bodies like melted wax . Not even the immensely powerful generals were spared , and they crumbled before they managed to reach any of the teleportation arrays near-by .

The unstoppable putrefaction spread like an invisible wave , reaping the little life that still remained on the once glorious planet that stood at the core of a star sector . The mountains of corpses were slowly absorbed as the lotus kept growing , and every millennia or two another petal emerged on the flower .

Within that petal was the lament of a million powerful warriors sealed , forever unable to leave . The lotus kept slowly growing in its domain as the sole emperor of the planet .

But one day a hand as large as a continent appeared above the desolate planet , and it reached down to grasp the cursed lotus . A torrent of pestilence and rose up to meet the hand , but the Lotus’ attack was immediately defeated as a black coffin appeared out of nowhere , sealing the flower within .

The stone sarcophagus shuddered a few times , likely from the lotus releasing immense attacks to escape , but it quieted down again soon enough . But the terrifying power the coffin now radiated was a clear signal that the lotus might be sealed away from the world , but still very much alive . The moment the coffin opened again all life would end .

The scene ended with the enormous hand rising through the atmosphere , leaving the cursed planet behind , and Zac’s eyes opened just in time to see a screen appear in front of him .

Fragment of the Coffin - Early - All Attributes +10 , Endurance +80 , Vitality +50 , Intelligence +15 , Wisdom +60 , Effectiveness of Endurance +5%]

Zac looked at the line with incomprehension , not understanding how he had gotten there . He had imagined something along the lines of Petrification or Decay when considering the combination of Rot and Hardness , but the vision had rather created an odd Fragment . Was there such a thing as the Dao of the Coffin?

Was it because his thoughts had been on Alea lying in her crystal coffin for the past week? Zac felt that the vision of Alea lying beneath the Tree of Ascension somewhat mirrored what he had just witnessed during his epiphany . Alea was poisonous just like the lotus , and both were preserved within a coffin .

It made him confused whether what he witnessed was something that actually had happened , or whether it was just something his mind conjured to make sense of the insight that he gained from looking at the lotus in the Titan's hand .

Of course , the real issue was what the hell the Dao of the Coffin entailed . He could understand the concept , as a coffin was both hard and the corpses inside would rot away , but he didn’t understand how the Dao of the Coffin would be utilized in battle . Was it defensive? Offensive? He simply couldn’t tell .

Unfortunately there was no way for him to try it out before he entered the tower either . His only clue was that he had actually lost a little bit of Endurance in favor of more Vitality and Wisdom when he fused Rot and Hardness . Endurance was obviously the main stat , but its somewhat balanced spread might indicate a Dao less focused on simply defense .

The projection had already disappeared by the time Zac opened his eyes , so he decided to close his eyes again to ponder on his newest Fragment . But his eyes were drawn to a gaping Galau who sat a few meters away , looking at him with what looked to be a mix of elation and jealousy .

Did you actually gain something? - Galau said with some shock in his eyes . - The fluctuations around you were quite massive . -

Yeah , didn’t you? - Zac asked with confusion . - I was dragged into a vision the moment I looked upon that Titan . -

Galau opened and closed his mouth a few times , but no words came out .

You’ll get used to it after traveling with that guy for a while , - Ogras sighed . - At least we’ll hopefully get some soup while the general eats his meat . -

What’s going on? - Zac asked .

That was the - Eight Calamities Titan’ , one of the rarest projections representing the 62nd level , - Galau explained . - Only those with a connection to one of the calamities will gain something from the items in the Titan’s hands . Rumors say that special bloodlines might gain something directly from the Titan itself , but I haven’t heard of anything like that actually happening so it might be false . -

Eight calamities , - Zac muttered . - So those lucky enough to have a Dao that resonated with one of the treasures would get a guaranteed epiphany? -

Perhaps not an epiphany , but they would make improvements , - Galau nodded .

Then it’s perhaps thanks to you and your Dao Treasure I managed to take a step forward . I’ll remember the favor , - Zac said seriously .

It was true . The Dao of Death , or rather the Dao of the Coffin was the remaining fragment he felt most leery about completing before evolving , but he suddenly gained it when he was actually targeting his Life Fragment .

Even just before Galau came barging into their courtyard he had felt he was on the verge on something , making him somewhat confident he had taken the first step toward a suitable concept for his final Fragment .

Of course , three low-grade Fragments was unfortunately still not enough for him to get his hands on an Arcane class according to the report he bought the other day .

But gaining the Fragment of the Coffin was definitely a step in the right direction , making Zac more hopeful for the future . It truly felt like his high Luck had helped him out again , presenting him with just the vision he needed .

How does luck work? - Zac suddenly the demon asked after Galau left their courtyard . - Could my Luck have caused that Reoluv to fail the final challenge in order for me to gain this opportunity? -

Luck is an obscure subject , and I don’t know any specifics , - Ogras said hesitantly . - But I don’t think its effect would be that exaggerated? That guy reaching the 62nd level is exactly what was expected of him . -

Yeah , but wouldn’t a guy like that have a few hidden means to reach even higher? - Zac ventured .

Ogras didn't answer and rather opted to glance in the direction of the Tower with a pensive expression .

Chapter 392 - Emerald Skies

Reoluv was inwardly fuming , but he still had to retain a dignified expression as he received the many congratulations from the various young masters and ladies from distinguished forces as he exited the tower .

Passing the 62nd level was respectable , but not what he had aimed for . His goal had always been to completely conquer the 7th floor , just like his master did once upon a time . But a small mistake had abruptly caused the end of his trial , even before he had used up his final hidden cards . It was just the difference of one level from completing the whole 7th floor , but that 1 level was like an endless abyss .

It was the divide between a talented cultivator and a genius of an era .

The conquering the seventh floor have given him a shot at making contact with the hidden peak forces presiding over the sector , or perhaps provided him with the same sort of opportunity that presented itself for Lord Beradan a few decades after he managed to conquer the 7th floor .

Winning the favor of an undying existence passing by their remote sector would elevate his fate to a level that not even becoming an Emperor could match .

But it was all for naught .

It felt like a cosmic joke , a brief lapse in concentration made his token crack , which forcibly teleported him outside even though he still was able to keep fighting . He didn't even know that was possible , since the tokens were essentially impervious to outside forces . Or did that change at the high-tier floors?

Reoluv grit his teeth at the memory and quickly excused himself from the square full of people , citing the need to go home and ponder on a few insights he gained from conjuring the Eight Calamities Titan .

The truth was that the mental shock of falling short for such a stupid reason had even made him unable to completely immerse himself in the effect of the Apparition , but perhaps the situation was still salvageable if he hurried home to his master’s Dao Chamber . As long as he managed to push one of his fragments to Medium Mastery the tower wouldn’t be a complete wash .

Many impressed sighs and comments echoed across the square , praising such a genius that never let himself relax . But he didn’t care as he crushed the token even though he could stay here for another month if he wanted to .

At least there was one small comfort in this disappointing climb . There was at least no one in the area who would be able to beat his score in the short run , and he would have another chance in a few years .

My Lord , it is done , - Triv said as his miasmic body shuddered with excitement .

Oh? - Adriel said with some surprise . - I thought it would take a few more days . -

We managed to sneak a handful of spectral squads behind their lines to place the final flags . They will start to corrode the environment though , so it will be found out within a week that something is wrong , - the ghost attendant confirmed .

You don’t need to explain to me , - Adriel snorted . - I was the one who modified them . -

My apologies! - Tviv hurriedly said .

Adriel waved his hand that it didn’t matter as he thoughtfully stared at his crystal for a few seconds .

Have we found out the source of undeath yet? - Adriel asked . - Those closed incursions teemed with miasma , but I couldn’t recognize its signature . I first thought it was Mhal who had somehow resurrected , but he was much too stupid to orchestrate something like that . -

No , we sent a group to greet and possibly integrate the person who closed those incursions , but we were always too late , - Triv said . - We also tried to compare the residual energies to everyone here , but we couldn’t match it either . -

It shouldn’t be possible that it was one of his children . Adriel had never heard of a newly turned citizen ignoring the commands of its leader . Even those ignorant things scuttling around his domain would respond to the calling , shuffling toward him without hesitation . Had the undead warrior mutated to allow him to somehow resist it?

There is something else , - the attendant added . - He can use the natives’ teleportation arrays . The scouts believe that the warrior is an unaffiliated wanderer since he didn’t respond to the call in the slightest . -

So he’s not a designated invader at least , - Adriel muttered as he started to pace back and forth . - Unaffiliated wanderer at F or early E-Grade? A twist of fate? Or is a scion of the ancient clans bored enough to visit a baby planet? -

If it’s one of those young masters who have gained an interest in this world… Should we back off? - Triv Nervously asked .

No need . If such a personage wanted this planet they would simply visit me and claim it . That would be a pretty good outcome as well . A family that can see through the obscuration of the heavens wouldn’t be stingy with their compensation for claiming a world , - Adriel smiled .

However , Adriel's instincts told him that the mysterious warrior was not some scion of an ancient clan . He was just a Lich rather than one of the five blessed races , but he was representing the Empire in this invasion . Even one of the purebloods would have had to respond to the call since it contained the authority of the Primo .

Of course , there’s another possibility , - the Lich pondered .

What? - Triv asked with confusion . - If not a turned citizen , and not an unaffiliated wanderer , then what? -

It might be related to the Mystic Realm , - Adriel muttered with a thoughtful smile . - We know it's an abandoned research facility of the heretics of the Boundless Path . Did the Technocrats perhaps create a synthetic bloodline disconnected from the Call of the Empire? But why would they do that? Immortality? -

What do you wish us to do , my Lord? - Triv asked hesitantly , knowing the far more knowledgeable lich was simply asking rhetorically .

Leave it be , - Adriel finally said . - We’ll ignore that man for now since he hasn’t shown any hostility against us . Perhaps activating the array might prompt him to visit me for a talk . -

So we’re finally liberating this world? - Triv said with excitement . - We’ll finally be able to breathe again! -

We have played passively long enough , - Adriel agreed as two green sinister lights lit up in his eyes . - Those humans and ants think our citizens are just targets to farm levels? It’s time for them to join my kingdom . -

Miss Marshall , it’s bad! - Trevor screamed as he almost fell on the ground in his frantic entrance of the command tent .

What’s going on? - Thea said with a bad premonition as she immediately ran out of the tent , and one glance was all that she needed to know what scared Trevor so badly .

The sky was green .

Enormous azure lines crisscrossed a murky-green sky and the air was rife with miasma . Worse yet , she saw almost a dozen azure pillars reaching toward the sky in various directions . They looked a lot like incursion pillars , though death-attuned rather than the blue one she had encountered during the battle with the Incursion neighboring Westfort .

But a second look helped Thea understand that the pillars weren’t Incursions , but rather a part of the massive array that the undead had worked on for the past months . They connected with some sort of unseen ceiling a thousand meters in the air , infusing the azure lines with a continuous stream with energy .

Had they failed? But they had held all up until now , sacrificing tens of thousands of lives!

Shit , I thought we had more time? - Mark said with a grunt as he walked out of the tent as well . - This is beyond what I can deal with , miss . What do you want to do? -

Thea’s mind was blank as she looked at the pillar closest to them . What did she want to do? How should she know? A year ago she was simply running a small non-profit that rescued stray animals , mostly with the help of her family’s vast wealth . She knew nothing about warfare and leadership .

I… - Thea stammered , her mind trying to grasp for a solution .

It was one thing talking about an array powerful enough to turn Earth into a world of death , but it was a whole other thing seeing it in person . How could they stop it? Or at least delay it? This was not something a swift stab with Petalstorm] could solve .

Take a breath , - Mark said as he saw her face . - You are not alone in this . You have both the family and the whole planet with you . -

Thea took a steadying breath to calm herself , and she started to go over the situation they found themselves in .

According to Zac it would still take a week or so for the array to truly activate even after it was completed . It seems that those pillars are dragging energy out of the ground , converts it to dense miasma , and finally funnels it to the inscription lines in the sky , - she analyzed . - Perhaps we can slow down the charge-up by stopping the flow of energy? -

It wasn’t a solution , but it was the first step , helping the following steps to come easier . Just a minute later a group of scouts set out from their camp , guarded by elites decked in a terrifying number of weapons . They would spare no expense to reach the closest pillar to study it and relay images back to the command center .

Meanwhile , their army would launch a massive assault at the undead horde to make sure they didn't veer off toward the pillars to defend it .

But things quickly deteriorated as the scouts got close to the pillar , as all of them zombifying with a speed visible to the naked eye . Thea and the other commanders could only helplessly look at the monitors as their party ripped each other to shreds . The scouting party didn't even manage to get closer than a few hundred meters before they were turned .

What was even scarier was that there was no sign of miasma entering their bodies or any complaints of discomfort from the poor men . The change came abruptly and without any warning .

We can try launching rockets at the pillars , but our munitions aren't enough to target all of these things . Besides , I fear that this issue cannot be solved with our mundane weaponry . If that was the case the undead wouldn't have left most of the pillars unguarded , - Mark said with a sigh .

Do it , we must try everything , - Thea said with a bleak expression . - I'll head to Port Atwood to see if anything can be done on that end . -

We can only pray that man will choose to put his private plans on hold to help deal with this mess . -

Do you have any ideas? - MacKenzie asked , desperately trying to mask the fear taking hold of her heart as she looked up at the pillar in the distance .

This wasn’t in line with what they had learned so far . They should have had up to a month at the most , but at least a week before this happened . But it was hard to refute the pillar reaching into the sky .

Their appearance had caused everything to go awry , and with both Zac and Ogras gone people didn’t know who to turn to for answers . People keep looking at her , and she understood the fear and question in their eyes . They were wondering where her brother was . Zac and Ogras weren't slated to return for a few days though , and there was no way for her to contact them .

We can’t even get close , - Ilvere sighed with a shake of his head . - Anything that gets within a few hundred meters of that thing will be turned into a zombie in a heartbeat , and its domain seems to be spreading . We even tried taping a bunch of divine crystals on a Barghest , but the crystals simply cracked and the barghest was turned as well . -

I know , - Kenzie sighed . - Thea Marshall visited me a half an hour ago looking for Zac . She looked like she would explode when I explained that Zac was off-world . My hopes of getting a sister-in-law keep getting dimmer . Anyway , it looks like we will need to take down those pillars from a distance . -

That lassie will wake up from her sleep sooner or later , - Ilvere smiled before returning to business . - Destroying the array flags will be quite difficult . They are dug far into the ground , making a direct assault from distance extremely troublesome . You would have to destroy the whole area to get to the array , but we don't possess such force . -

Not necessarily , - Kenzie said as she took out her brother’s flying treasure .

Wait , what are you planning? - the demon general asked with worry . - If Lord Atwood returns to find you turned into a zombie he will skin us alive . -

I’ll be fine , - Kenzie said as she stepped onto the flying disk .

Ilvere groaned when he saw that she wouldn’t change her mind , and jumped onto the disk with some resignation . Soon enough the two were soaring through the skies toward a pillar at the outer edge of the green canopy . It only took them half an hour to reach it , and the demon sighed in relief when he saw that it was completely unguarded . At least they wouldn't have to deal with the undead elites .

Then again , the pillar itself was scary enough to keep everyone at bay .

So what are you thinking , young miss? - Ilvere said as he hesitantly looked at the pillar a kilometer away .

I have been working on something my brother left me the past week , - Kenzie said . - I think it will be helpful against the pillars . -

Powerful offensive arrays? - Ilvere said as his eyes lit up . - That might work , but it needs to be a really powerful one . The pillars are also protected by a shield . Your old world weaponry didn’t work on them according to the report we just got from the human armies . -

Perhaps not , but what about new-world weaponry? - Kenzie smiled as she released a swarm of newly manufactured drones from her Cosmos Sack .

She knew that her brother would freak out when he learned that she set up the whole production line just hours after he left , rather than slowly study them for any latent risks . But she was tired of just sitting by on the side while people were getting killed , and Jeeves had no problems hacking the things .

An army of weaponized drones was a perfect counter against the sea of undead as Kenzie saw it . They were mostly immune to the corrosive effects of miasma , and even if they fell they wouldn't convert into new zombies .

The drones flew out with shocking speed and in just a minute they had formed a circle around the pillar . Each of them was only a meter in height , and they didn't emit even a speck of Cosmic Energy . But Kenzie had great confidence in her children , and she made some final adjustments to their position with the help of her AI .

Wha- - Ilvere said with wide eyes as he gazed at the unfamiliar machines with confusion .

But his questions got stuck in his throat as the flying machines no larger than a child each released a beam of terrifying energy straight at the foot of the pillar . When the two managed to open their eyes again only a smoldering crater remained .

Chapter 393 - Last Day

Zac woke up early the next day and got ready to head out after training a bit more with Cyclic Strike] . Unfortunately it seemed that the small progress he had attained in the skill over the past weeks had been completely erased after gaining the Fragment of the Coffin . The Fragment completely overpowered the Seed of Trees , making it impossible to maintain a balance .

He could only pause his practice until he gained his final Fragment as well .

At least he could confirm that the odd Dao Fragment worked with his new shield , perhaps even better than the Dao of Hardness did . Hopefully that meant that his Undying Bulwark class would still work as intended .

It was also a decent indicator that Fragment of the Coffin was a Defensive Dao as well , meaning his final skill quest was also most likely completed . He didn’t dare change into his Draugr-form to make sure though as he was still in the Base town . He would be stuck in his undead form for roughly an hour after shifting which might cause unintended problems . But he was heading for the Tower soon enough , and there would be ample time to go over things in there .

Today was the last day before entering the tower , so getting the additional fragment ahead of time was a huge boon . Zac and Ogras had already decided upon what to do . They would visit the weekly auction once more in hopes of finding anything of value . It was their last shot before returning to Earth where they were limited to Calrin's selection once again .

No matter the results of the auction they would immediately enter the Tower afterward . They would spend one day inside , leaving one day afterward for networking . Provided that Zac managed to reach a floor high enough to warrant the attention of the larger forces , that is . In either case , they would have to return to Earth since their ten days were up .

The auction was pretty similar to the first one , though on the second-to-last segment an item that piqued Zac’s interest appeared . It was simply called a Heaven’s Secrets Array] and was said to upgrade Nexus Nodes .

What is this? - Zac asked Ogras , but the demon shrugged with confusion as well .

It's normally called an Information array] , but perhaps this is a special variant , - Galau said , not showing too much interest . - It acts as a substitute if you’re unable to upgrade your Nexus Node for your town . -

Upgrade the Node? - Zac asked with interest . - What does it do? -

At the lowest level a Nexus Node doesn’t provide almost any information about the skills it sells or details about Class Choices . But if you manage to upgrade the status of your force then all its nodes will be more helpful . This Array gives that kind of effect as well , but only to one Node , - Galau explained .

Buy it , - Ogras said without hesitation .

What kind of information? - Zac asked with interest , also pretty interested in purchasing it . - Does it provide better Classes? -

No , it can’t help there . But it gives information about the type of classes , their main attributes and things like that . It’s doesn’t display everything , but enough to get a better idea of what the classes represent . It is a bit hard sometimes to understand the description after all , - Galau shrugged .

Is it rare? - Zac asked , completely agreeing with Galau's assessment of the cryptic descriptions of the Class choices .

I guess these things are slightly rare , but it’s still not too valuable , - Galau said . - Most people that visit this place are from forces that have upgraded their crystals the normal way and have no need for it . It’s meant for weaker and newly established forces as a stopgap until they get the real thing . -

Zac was immediately interested , and he would make sure to buy that thing unless its price got out of hand . It would help him to choose a class better in line with his goals .

Next up is the Heaven’s Secrets Array] . I know what many of you are thinking ; - Isn’t this just an Information Array?’ Truth be told , the array itself is just that , but this specific array is still a bit special . It was crafted by a cultivator adept on the path of Karma , which has given the array a slightly mysterious effect . -

The auctioneer saw that he had managed to catch the attention of quite a few people , and he continued with a bombastic voice .

It not only provides the benefits of an Information array , but it even gives small Karmic hints of which choices might be best for you . It would be a marvelous opportunity for the youths of your factions who are unsure what path to pick for themselves , - the man said .

Zac was a bit disappointed in the extra function , as that wasn’t something he needed for himself . He only had two options at the moment , and he wasn’t so sure it would expand all that much even with his new seeds . Besides , he had already had a high enough Luck stat that his gut feeling was at least as effective as some small Karmic infusion into the array .

He had rather hoped that it would contain some hacking function that would give access to better structures in the Town Shop or better Classes , but he wasn’t that lucky . Still , it would be an item that would prove greatly beneficial for Port Atwood , especially since the system was so new for everyone . Most established forces followed heritages to choose their classes , but this was a great option for his people .

The price on the screen immediately jumped up to 200 million nexus coins , but the bidding already slowed down after 300 . It clearly wasn’t a too valued , and Zac finally snatched it for the price of 380 Million Nexus coins . This was one of the types of items that might be very valuable on the outside , but here it went for a discount since people were more interested in items that could help them climb further .

Soon enough they reached the final segment , but Zac didn't found anything else he wanted . The treasures were extremely good , but they were either too expensive or not things that weren't suited for himself . A set of six small Spirit Tool axes appeared that Zac felt would be perfect for Emily , but they ended up with a price-tag of 3 billion , quickly forcing Zac out of the bidding .

Soon enough they reached the final item , and it wasn't something that Zac could recognize either .

Our final item in today’s Auction is something that might only enter our halls once every few years . It is the crystallized eye of a Pathfinder Oracle , - the Auctioneer said before he paused for dramatic effect .

Zac , along with a lot of other people looked extremely confused , but a low susurrus could be heard from the platforms up in the air .

This mythical creature has long been hunted to extinction due to its marvelous nature , but now and then a lucky hunter can find its crystalized remains in various Mystic Realms . Legend states that the Pathfinder Oracles could see the truths of the universe , which turned their whole bodies into a treasure for almost any field , - the auctioneer kept going .

The eye of an oracle is the second most valuable part , with only its core superseding it . It can be used for a wide array of purposes . Almost any Spirit Tool would gain a great boost to spirituality from consuming it , and it can be used to upgrade most basic Specialty Cores . You can even plant it in your cultivation cave , and it will start attracting Origin Dao . It is truly one of the few treasures that almost any genius could make use of . -

Zac had only halfheartedly listened to the Auctioneer’s efforts to upsell his final item , but he soon showed full attention to the proceedings . Being able to upgrade the spirituality of a Spirit Tool was pretty amazing , but his axe had already awoken due to that mysterious rock . He was far more interested in the second effect . That large eye could upgrade almost any Specialty core?

Wasn’t this exactly what he needed for his Duplicity core?

Is this thing real? - Zac asked with a hushed tone to Galau who looked at the scene with wide eyes .

I can’t believe such a good thing was put up for auction , - the squirrely man said with shock . - The seller must be desperate for cash . -

That was all the confirmation Zac needed . It truly possessed the capabilities that were advertised , and Zac immediately got ready for a heated Auction . This was already the last item , so it looked like he would need to find a solution for Alea somewhere else than here . But if he bought this thing he would at least be able to accomplish one of his goals for coming here .

But the auctioneer’s next words were like a cold shower , quickly waking him up to reality .

Opening bid is 5 000 E-Grade Nexus coins . The seller is also willing to accept payment in Attuned Nexus Crystals at market rate . -

Five thousand E-Grade Nexus Coins was equivalent to 5 billion Nexus Coins , which was almost all the money that Zac had brought to the Tower . Worse yet , he had already spent a decent chunk on his shield and various other items . Even if he included the 3 billion from Galau he was just above 6 billion at the moment , and it felt very uncertain that would be enough .

His thoughts of borrowing money from Ogras and Galau were soon moot as the price rose with shocking speed . This time there was no one placing open bids , but the number on the screen rose as the auctioneer kept screaming out the current price .

12 000! - the Auctioneer exclaimed with glee , - An- Wait! 14 000! 22 000! -

Zac’s eyes widened in shock at seeing the price , and he couldn’t help but inwardly mock himself for thinking he had a chance at that item . The price landed at almost 80 billion nexus coins , which elicited a small round of applause . Yet no one openly admitted to buying it , perhaps to avoid getting robbed . The eye was truly an item that someone might risk everything to snatch .

Even Ogras looked a bit shocked at the price . That was a huge amount of money even for a small D-Grade force . They might certainly have it , but using it on a consumable item that could only benefit one junior was likely way out of their budget . Such expenditures could only be used on safer investments , such as allowing one of their ancestors to progress a step forward .

This only became more apparent when the System apparently didn’t spoonfeed powerhouses Nexus Coins from kills at higher levels . Zac had been shocked when learned of it , but Ogras explained it with the fact that anything E-Grade warriors and higher killed were worth a lot of money by itself . The System didn't feel it necessary to reach into its own pockets to supplement the income .

It was a small relief to Zac since he had initially been afraid that the stronger forces could earn hundreds of billions of nexus coins in a day by going out into the woods and killing a few beasts . But reality showed that it didn't rise that dramatically . Stronger forces could still earn shocking wealth in short times by going out hunting , but not to the degree that Zac feared .

None of this helped Zac though , and he could only wistfully sigh as the Eye went to the unnamed moneybags . The auction had concluded , and Zac was in no mood to stay on for the following festivities .

Their second visit to the Naspheyi Auction was the final thing on their agenda , and Zac couldn’t help but despair a bit when he realized they hadn’t accomplished a single one of their goals . He was still without any cure for Alea , and his chance at evolving his Duplicity core had slipped through his fingers due to his apparent abject poverty .

An ember of anger ignited in his mind , no doubt fanned on by the splinter . It had already gotten restless after days of Zac’s inactivity and tried to instigate something . So Zac was a bit muddled as they walked toward the Tower as he needed to spend some of his energy to suppress his violent tendencies .

It was getting late but there was no point in returning to their courtyard . They had ample time to rest inside the Tower . They had bought everything they needed , and Zac was unwilling to waste his accrued wealth on anything else at the moment . He felt tired of the whole Base Town and wanted to get on with the challenge already .

The buildings got increasingly grander as they walked down one of the main roads leading toward the immense tower that blotted out half the sky . Soon enough the massive surface of the Tower of Eternity filled up half his vision , a massive block of white that pushed the blue sky to the sides . Even the grand towers and mansions they passed felt like small doll-houses compared to the impossibly large structure .

But even though the structures got larger and more refined , the number of people on the streets were generally decreasing .

Most people stayed at the middle and outer edges of the town since the risk of running into someone dangerous increased the closer you got to the tower itself . There always some who went to the central square to look for carries or just to take in the sights , but people rarely lingered in the area unless they had the power to back it up .

After an hourlong walk they finally reached the Core Area , the solitary row of extraordinary structures placed in a semi-circle around the entrance to the Tower itself . Each structure was as large as a town by itself , and inside the most powerful forces in their star sector resided .

Chapter 394 - Last Opportunity

Is that the Zethaya Pill House you mentioned? - Zac asked as he looked over at the grand pagoda that emanated a palpable medicinal scent that could be sensed from where they stood .

Behind the pagoda was a garden that looked large enough to be considered a proper park , but a high wall obscured what went on there . Only treetops and the occasional roofs could be discerned .

Yes , that is them . The number one alchemy clan in the system , - Galau nodded with avarice flashing in his eyes . - Imagine being able to buy a few pills from them . I’d be able to double my investment simply by targeting collectors . -

The door is open , why don’t people just go in? I don’t see any guards keeping people away , - Zac muttered , unable to tear his eyes away since that might be the final opportunity to accomplish at least one of his tasks .

There’s an extremely powerful restrictive array blocking the entrance . Most people would be turned to paste just by trying to enter the gates . You need the invitation of the Zethaya to avoid the array , - Galau explained .

What happens if you simply endure the array and push your way through? Will you be able to buy things? - Ogras asked . - Or will you be attacked as an intruder? -

Zac’s eyes lit up as he heard Ogras’ question . Having an array to keep out the average people , but allowing the elites of the sector to enter would make sense . It would prevent a bunch of tourists entering their shop while also allowing the family to make friends with unknown powerhouses .

Well… I’ve heard of people pushing their way through and completing purchases , but I’ve also heard of people getting thrown out . I am not sure about the details , - Galau hesitantly said .

So this place has been accessible from the start? - Zac said with a scowl at Galau . - Why have we wasted so much time at that auction house if we could simply have gone here on day one? -

That array is crazy strong , you can only dream of entering if you can’t easily conquer the fourth floor . Entering it might cause wounds that will take weeks to heal , - Galau entreated as he looked at Zac with worry . - Furthermore , there is a high risk of injury even if you give up early . It might ruin our climb . -

Zac realized that he might have been a bit too restrained . If he had showcased some more strength then Galau might have told him about this opportunity long ago , but even now the aspiring merchant believed Zac to be too weak to even think about barging in .

Don’t worry , isn’t it just an array to keep out the rabble? - Ogras smiled before turning to Zac , clearly understanding what was on his mind . - See if you find something useful for me as well . It’s not every day you get access to a stockpile like theirs . -

Zac took a deep breath and walked over toward the house . A group of people nearby first looked at him speculatively , as though they were trying to figure out which force he belonged to . Only the top tier factions could get into a place like Zethaya , yet Zac was completely unfamiliar .

But those faces quickly turned into sneers when they noticed him stopping outside the array , clearly trying to figure it out . Zac didn’t mind the looks at all as his eyes were trained on the space in front of him . He tried to glean what sort of array it was so that he could best prepare himself .

He had encountered all kinds of barriers during the hunt , and he felt confident in defeating most of them . But he wasn’t without his weaknesses . His mental defense was good but not great , and he wasn’t confident against any poisons that Zethaya’s alchemists would concoct .

But his guts told him that the array wouldn’t deal with poison or things like fire . It was a gatekeeper and a test , and it was unlikely that even an arrogant place like Zethaya would try to poison their presumptive customers . He felt it more likely to be some sort of restrictive array that required a certain amount of strength to push through

Zac looked over at the group of humanoids who stood some distance away , looking at him like he was some sort of clown .

Do you guys know what kind of array this is? - Zac probed .

Two of the people only ignored him , but the third spoke up after seemingly thinking it over .

It’s a general suppression array from what I’ve heard , it restrains both your mind and your body . It gets lighter if you block it with the Dao or strong skills . It’s a test of power , - the youth said . - But I haven't seen it personally . -

Thank you , - Zac nodded and immediately stepped in .

He didn’t put all his faith in that man’s words , but he thought his words rang true . Some excelled in Dao while having a low Endurance , and others had amazing skills . It made sense that Zethaya would want to test for any sort of unique trait that would qualify aspiring guests as potential powerhouses .

Zac only managed to take two steps before he was stopped in his tracks . It felt like he was carrying a huge boulder on his shoulders , and the air itself had congealed into an impossibly thick sludge that required his body to strain to push forward .

But the strain was only slightly worse than the power required to unleash the second axe of Deforestation] , and he didn’t even feel the need to imbue himself with one of his Fragments to proceed . After the brief stop , he started to move forward one step after another , walking through a beautifully decorated tunnel .

The tunnel was only 50 meters in length , but it took him over a minute to traverse toward the end , and sweat was starting to drip down his forehead from the exertion . What was a bit more embarrassing was that the tunnel turned transparent half-way through , and he noticed there were a decent number of people observing his entrance . He considered activating one of his Dao Fragments , but he felt it might be more impressive to push through without any assistance .

He kept thinking of ways to make sure the deal went through with the discerning clan , but his musings were rudely interrupted . A foot suddenly came out of nowhere , landing straight on his chest with a resounding thud . The attack itself wasn’t anything special , but Zac was still within the array which caused a tremendous strain . Zac felt some blood in his mouth , and he had no option but to act .

The Fragment of the Coffin spread through his body , turning it impervious . Not only that , it felt as though his rage imbued him with power , and a monstrous strength surged throughout his body to the point that it felt like he was bursting at the seams .

The unprovoked kick had well and truly pissed him off , and his instincts kicked in . His hand shot forward like a snake and he grasped the ankle with enough force to cause some cracking sounds to echo through the tunnel .

Wai- - a voice screamed , but Zac ignored it as he slammed the attacker into the ground with shocking force before he threw him out from the Pill House like a piece of trash . Only a few cracked stones smeared with blood was the evidence that a struggle had taken place .

Zac didn’t know if the man was alive or dead after that response , but he didn’t care as he took the last steps into the Pill House , his Fragment making the final stretch effortless . A glance showed that the man was lying motionless outside , allowing Zac to focus on the matter at hand without worrying about him throwing out an attack from behind .

The whole shop looked like a luxurious lounge rather than a store , with groups of sofas and beautiful fountains creating a harmonious atmosphere . There were no pills or other wares on display anywhere , but there was a rich medicinal aroma in the store that made all of Zac’s cells feel full of life and power .

The whole area was lit up by a glass dome in the ceiling tens of meters in the air , and he saw there were multiple stories that all had open balconies toward the central lounge . There weren’t a lot of people inside , but he could spot a couple of groups scattered about , most of them looking over at Zac with curiosity .

But a small sense of danger suddenly pricked his mind , and his eyes turned to see a young human standing on the second floor looking down at him with cold eyes . Zac frowned when he sensed the animosity since he had never seen that guy before . Was it him that sent out an underling to sound him out? And if so , why?

Was it someone from a force that ran one of the Incursions he had closed , like the Ez’Mahal Empire? There were no obvious signs on him or his clothes that could give Zac a hint , and he didn’t dare to use Inquisitive Eye] . He was pretty sure that anyone that could enter a place like this possessed an item similar to his own bracer anyway .

The young man looked away soon enough and walked away from the balcony , disappearing out of sight . Zac could only drop the matter as he refocused on a clerk who walked toward him .

We do apologize for the disturbance , that guest breached our rules and will no longer be allowed back inside , - he said , though Zac could tell that he wasn’t all that contrite . - I am Orbat , a clerk working for the Zethaya Clan . -

No matter . I passed through that array , does that mean I can shop here? - Zac asked , not wanting to press the issue .

Their reception was an indicator that they did not put all too much value on him , only sending a clerk rather than whoever was running the shop at this moment . A large clan like the Zethaya would no doubt have a couple of people at the Tower at any point in time , meaning they definitely could have sent someone with higher status .

That was the problem with a lack of renown . He was a nobody in the end , someone without strong backing . Even if he was powerful enough to break through the array he was only someone with potential , whereas the usual guests at this place no doubt had living ancestors at C-Grade .

Certainly , - Orbat said as he smilingly led Zac to a sectional not far away .

What’s on the other floors? - Zac asked offhandedly as he sat down .

The Zethaya Pill House is both a store and a residential district . The Zethaya maintains friendly relations with many forces , and some choose to stay here during their climb , while others simply visit , - the clerk smoothly explained with his ever-present smile .

So only for big-shots , huh?’ Zac thought with a wry smile as he shot a look toward the balustrade where he saw the man who emitted some hostility .

He was no longer anywhere to be seen , and Zac threw it into the back of his mind as he refocused on the task at hand .

I am looking for two items . I am first in need of a pill or a treasure that can heal a fractured soul . Secondly , I am looking for things that can help evolve a specialty core , - Zac explained .

We do not carry anything that can generally evolve Specialty Cores . I am afraid only extremely rare items like the Pathfinder Eye that appeared earlier has such a magical effect , - the clerk said as he took out a crystal , causing a screen to emerge . - However , we do have the capability to produce the following pills . -

Zac seriously read through the list , and he saw that there were six different pills that were geared toward evolving specific Specialty Cores . Unfortunately , none of them was the Duplicity Core , and he could only sigh internally in disappointment . However , this was a rare opportunity to get some clues at least .

Does taking one of these pills guarantee an evolution? - Zac asked , not divulging that he wouldn’t buy any of them .

Unfortunately no , there is a chance of between 40 and 60% of a full evolution with the pills that are brought here . But even if the evolution is not successful a strong foundation will be created , allowing for easier evolution down the line , - the clerk smoothly explained .

Zac slowly nodded and moved on to the second item he looked for , the soul-mending treasure for Alea .

May I ask if it’s a preparation for the tower , or whether it’s meant for a patient? - the clerk asked .

Why does that matter? - Zac frowned .

The Zethaya carries the Serene Soul Pill] that can perform emergency repair on a fractured soul . It will not heal you completely , but it will stop the fracturing and allow you to slowly recuperate with the help of regular soul-nurturing pills afterward , - the clerk said . - However… -

Zac’s eyes lit up when he heard the explanation , but the - however’ sounded extremely ominous .

The Serene Soul Pill] needs to be imbibed within 5 minutes of being wounded , - Orbat concluded .

Zac closed his eyes to restrain a surge of fury that lambasted his mind for a second and took a deep breath to curtail the Splinter locked in its Miasmic cage . He needed to enter the tower soon .

It’s for a patient , the wound is a month old , - Zac conceded .

The clerk nodded , some sympathy showing in his face . Zac frowned when he saw the clerk’s reaction , fearing that he was simply out of luck .

Well… There is something , - the clerk said after some hesitation . - There is an item in our treasury , but I do not have the authority to make any decisions regarding treasures of that grade . A proper Zethaya Clan member needs to give the go-ahead . -

What Item? - Zac asked with eagerness .

I cannot divulge , - the clerk said . - Please wait a moment , I will consult the manager . -

Zac nodded in agreement , and he impatiently waited for the clerk to come back . His mind spun as he tried to come up with arguments for the Zethaya to sell him the item . It seemed like the item was something they kept for themselves in case of emergency or something , which probably meant its effect was pretty amazing .

Paying above market price probably wouldn’t work in such a case , since the Zethaya didn’t lack for money . Should he promise a favor if he could buy it? Would they care? Did he have anything else to trade with apart from money that would interest an ancient clan?

Soon enough the clerk returned , but he was a bit pale and didn’t dare to look up . Next to him was a young man wearing a luxurious blue robe . He radiated an impressive pressure , but it was more like a gently flowing river compared to Zac’s usual aura of brutality . It was no doubt the Zethaya Clan member who could decide on the matter .

But Zac frowned when he noticed that a third person was approaching him , walking shoulder to shoulder with the Zethaya Alchemist . It was the young man with the cold eyes that had stood on the second floor earlier .

Zac sighed as he realized that trouble had finally come for him .

Chapter 395 - Prajñā Cherry

Zac looked at the approaching trio with some apprehension , afraid that the chance of a smooth transaction taking place might be ruined . He once more tried to connect the man in the red robes or the crest embroidered on his chest with anyone he had offended , but he came up with nothing .

He still wasn’t sure exactly what kind of information had been released about him to the multiverse from the 20-odd incursions he had closed , but he felt it was pretty unlikely that the matters were connected .

He had only really started closing incursions for real around two months ago . Chances were that the youth in front of him was already here when it happened , so he probably shouldn’t have heard anything . Or did someone specifically send an information packet to the Tower because they knew that Zac would sooner or later arrive here?

It was a scenario that Zac felt was distinctly possible , but at the same time unlikely . The Zethaya was a real big-shot family , a peak C-Grade force . According to what Ogras estimated the most invaders were from between middle D-Grade to early C-Grade forces , with a few - lucky additions’ like clan Azh’Rezak .

Perhaps stronger forces would get access to Incursions as well , but they would probably be sent to planets that already had cosmic Energy and already powerful natives . Both Earth and the Ishiate Planets were almost completely lacking Cosmic Energy before , and the Zhix planet was only slightly better off . Worst off was the moleman planet , since it was essentially half-dead .

There were three anomalies on their planet though , the Technocrats , the Church of Everlasting Dao , and the Undead Empire . The Empire could be explained by the fact that it was only some weak rural area of the Empire that came . The Church and the Technocrats likely snatched their spots by eradicating the forces that originally owned them though .

Ogras' family had kept their qualifications hidden until their spot was secured specifically to avoid such a fate . The youth accompanying the Zethaya Clan member seemed to be of equal standing , indicating he was probably from a peak faction as well . So it was unlikely he came from one of the remaining Incursions .

But what other enmities could there be? Did he recognize the origin of Zac’s bracer? Greatest certainly seemed like a man that seemed to be good at creating grudges with his straightforward manners . Or did the youth sense the splinter in his mind and want it for himself? But he couldn't arrive at any conclusions , and the trio sat down opposite of him .

I apologize for the wait . I am Boje Zethaya . My attendant told me about your interest in a treasure that can mend a fractured soul? - the man in the blue robe spoke up with a smile .

That's alright . I'm Zac , - Zac nodded , trying to maintain a balance of deference and poise . - That right . I need something that can mend a soul that's been fractured for a while . She- The patient is currently enclosed in a stasis array to not get any worse . -

The man in the red robe didn't say anything as he sat down . He only looked Zac up and down with a mix of overt hostility and disdain . Zac didn’t want to give the guy an excuse to ruin his business , so he ignored the rude behavior even if it was a bit irking . Perhaps the guy was simply some sort of elitist that didn’t like - commoners’ entering his surroundings .

At least the Zethaya representative didn't carry the same sort of hostility .

The blue-robed man nodded and took out a small but intricate chest , and opened it for a short duration . Inside was a branch with a stone fruit attached to a thin stalk . Zac immediately knew it was a great treasure as his cells screamed at him to consume the fruit , and the calling was even greater than when he first encountered the Fruit of Ascension .

We do possess this Prajñā Cherry] . It actually comes from an ordinary F-Grade cherry tree , but a great Sage pondered on the Dao of the Mind beneath the tree for a thousand years , giving the tree and a few of its fruits spirituality . This cherry has been infused by the powerhouse and has miraculous effects on the soul , no matter if it is to heal or strengthen it , - the alchemist explained . - It is a High E-Grade Soul Treasure . -

What price do you have in mind? - Zac asked , trying his best to hide how much he wanted it .

This thing does not have any set price , - Boje said . - The Zethaya clan normally hires promising warriors for various tasks , and we would be ready to offer this item as a recruitment bonus . Of course , you would have to prove a strength worthy of this unique treasure first . -

What sort of tasks? And how long would I be working for you? - Zac asked .

Overestimating yourself , - the red-robed man snorted , but Zac ignored him .

Boje awkwardly smiled as he spoke up .

We hire warriors for all sorts of purposes . Most choose to become guardians of our clan , signing life-long contracts . Others join us for short durations like a decade or two . The requirements for the latter are a lot harsher though . Someone wanting such a position would have to pass the 6th floor of the Tower to warrant such a large payment like this cherry . -

Zac nodded in understanding . It wasn't too bad to pay a high price for someone to sign a life-long contract . Those treasures would strengthen the cultivator which would benefit the Zethaya as well .

What would a short-term warrior do? -

Usually explore Mystic Realms with restrictions . There are some that have limits on attributes or levels , and we need strong warriors to explore for us as we can't send in our elders . The clan would claim a majority of all spoils you get inside , but you would still walk away with any titles and a part of the treasures . It's usually a great opportunity for any promising warrior , - Boje explained .

Zac felt that it sounded like a pretty good deal , but he also understood there was another side to the 'opportunity' . If it was such a good thing the clan would rather send their own people rather than spend a lot of money to send in outsiders . The risk of getting killed or crippled was no doubt high in the places the Zethaya Alchemist talked about .

I'm unfortunately unable to sign any such contract in the short term . Is there any way for you to directly sell the cherry instead? - Zac asked .

This item is quite unique and something formed by chance . It is not something we can simply grow as we wish , so we are unwilling to part with to for Nexus Crystals or Nexus Coins . But our pill house is always interested in trades of items or intelligence of similar value , - Boje explained .

Zac slowly nodded in understanding . It might be the young man causing trouble for him , but his instincts told him that wasn't the case . A clan like Zethaya was already obscenely wealthy , and it made sense that they were more interested in unique treasures that could help them in ways that money could not .

The problem was that he wasn’t walking around with any impressive treasures that he could trade for the cherry . The Amanita or the budding lotus were both probably worth as much as the cherry , but they were back on his island . Not that he would be able to bring it to this place anyway . The lotus was probably categorized as a D-Grade healing treasure which made it impossible to bring , while the Amanita was helping keeping Alea alive .

Are you looking for natural treasures or items that might be of interest to study? - Zac asked .

He actually had two things in mind . The first was the cyborg body he still kept in his Cosmos Sack . That thing was beyond durable , and perhaps the Zethaya could study it to create pills with similar effects . Any death squad or fanatic would want a pill that could help them drag down their enemies to hell along with them when they were facing death .

There was no doubt in Zac’s mind whether the cyborg corpse was something valuable . It was a creation of a top tier Technocrat faction , people who didn’t even fear the Undead Empire if the little alien could be trusted .

Besides , getting rid of that thing might be for the best , in case Firmament’s Edge possessed some means to track the corpse . Luckily the body was still only counted as E-Grade since he found no trouble in bringing it here , but it should at least be a Peak E-Grade treasure as he saw it .

The second item of note was the notebook regarding the Draugr corpse . It came uncomfortably close to his secrets , but no one here would be able to discern his specialty core thanks to his bracer . Perhaps the Zethaya would find the report interesting , or at least have the connections to sell the report to the Undead Empire for profit .

He could even sign an agreement that he would look for the samples when he came back and send them to the Zethaya . Then again , they could probably snatch the true Draugr body from Mhal’s Clan since it seemed like a small upstart force .

If neither was of interest he would have to try something else . Perhaps this alchemist needed a carry in the tower as well? He had already decided to display his Apex Hunter-title if it came to that since that title was a clear indicator of extreme fighting prowess without divulging any specifics .

Both are fine , we’re particularly interested in items that can either help in our research to create new pills or in methods of combating pill toxicity , - Boje said , looking at Zac with some interest .

Zac’s eyes lit up and he reached toward his Cosmos Sack to present the Cyborg Corpse .

I have something that migh- - Zac started , but he was suddenly interrupted by a discordant voice .

Oh? Isn’t this that treasure I was asking about the other day? - the red-robed youth said , finally speaking up . - Hadn’t we already reached an agreement for a trade? -

Huh? Rasuliel? - Boje Zethaya said with confusion , until his eyes widened slightly in realization . - Uh , of course . It must have slipped my mind due to the excitement with Prince Reoluv’s ascension . -

A surge of anger ignited in Zac’s chest when he realized that the youth had come to create trouble after all . It obviously wasn't enough for the guy to stare at him with his shitty attitude . Zac immediately discarded the idea to take out the cyborg , but he wouldn’t completely give up at this point . Hopefully Boje Zethaya would choose profits over keeping this Rasuliel character happy .

I have a corpse of a cultivator who was modified by a peak force to have a forced evolution when approaching death . He rose from a weak early E-Grade warrior to touching upon the D-Grade barrier in the span of one minute , releasing a shocking might that killed all of his enemies before he died of exhaustion , - Zac said , modifying the facts slightly .

If you can figure out the process of this change you might be able to create a pill that could mimic the effect . I’m sure that kind of pill would be desired by all kinds of forces , - Zac added .

Boje’s eyes lit up in interest when he heard the explanation , and it seemed that he was about to ask a few more questions about it . But he soon restrained himself and sighed with disappointment .

I am sorry . The item does indeed sound interesting , but our Pill House is known to keep our word . This treasure has already been claimed , and I can only apologize for my forgetfulness , - Boje said as he handed over a small vial . - Please take these healing pills as a token of my apology . They were concocted by my uncle , and are some of the most effective healing pills in Base Town . I wish you luck in your endeavors . -

Zac almost crushed the vial or threw it in the face of the alchemist , but he restrained himself as he put it away . Not that he would dare eat them after seeing how they acted , but he might be able to sell them for a premium later .

My family will send over the payment within a month . Its value will no doubt satisfy you , - Rasuliel smiled as he claimed the small box and put it away before he turned to Zac . - I am so sorry about that , little guy . -

The world started to turn jagged and Zac's vision became tinted with red and black and as fury took hold of his mind . The innocuous taunt had turned his smoldering anger into a blazing fire , and he was fast losing control . His body shook from restrained anger , and it was all he could do from not jumping the two and ripping them to pieces .

He needed to quickly find some secluded place to wrestle back control of his mind before he did something stupid . Zac arduously got to his feet and nodded at Boje with grit teeth before he turned toward the exit . The Rasuliel seemed to notice Zac's weird state , and a taunting voice echoed across the lounge as Zac walked away .

You said it was meant for a girl? Your Dao Partner perhaps? - Rasuliel laughed . - I am so sorry about that . Let’s hope she meets a more dependable man her next life . Someone who isn’t foolish enough to meddle in the Tsarun Clan’s business . -

Zac froze as the words echoed across the room . His thoughts became a jumble and soon enough he didn't even know where he was . His vision closed in on him and his consciousness slipped away despite his best efforts to remain lucid .

The last thing he heard before darkness consumed him was a bestial roar that was both familiar and foreign .

Chapter 396 - Aftermath

A dense killing intent suffused the whole hall , causing the numerous guests of the Pill House to look over with consternation after hearing the roar . The source was obviously the interloper , who looked angry enough to spontaneously combust . His eyes had turned completely bloodshot , and he was already reaching for his Cosmos Sack .

Rasuliel was inwardly delighted the way things turned out . Sometimes Luck was as important as skill , and he had no doubt been helped by his massive pool of 52 Luck today . Who would have thought that the scoundrel who somehow snatched the Thayer Consortia from underneath his uncle’s hands would present himself here?

Furthermore , he was only some no-name cultivator who lacked any proper connections to enter this place the right way . And better yet , he was a hothead who only needed a little bit of goading to lose control .

He couldn’t believe a person dumb enough to emit killing intent inside the Zethaya Pill House would be able to get inside , let alone snatch a Mercantile License that their family had targeted for decades .

The arrays in here would block any attempts at retaliation , allowing him to freely kill the interloper without repercussions . The biggest risk to his plans was if this Zac character crushed his token and fled , but as he looked at the man who seemed to have lost all rationality he knew his gambit had proven successful .

As soon as the fool got himself killed he would hopefully be able to glean the whereabouts of those damn Sky Gnomes from his belongings . This level of contribution to the clan was almost at an elder-level , and he couldn’t imagine the bump in resources he would enjoy when presenting the signet and this man’s body to his uncle .

The aura of the man in front of him kept rising , and even Rasuliel started to feel some pressure . But even then he wasn’t overly worried . Someone who could both get through the entrance array and even block Rudrik’s strike was strong , but the Zethaya had spent hundreds of thousands of years to strengthen this place to the limits of what the System allowed .

I apologize for the harsh words from my friend here , - Boje said with a frown . - But I urge you to remember where you are . Violence will not be tolerated within these walls . -

But the warning fell on deaf ears as Zac's aura kept increasing , and Rasuliel started to frown when he sensed an extremely sinister energy within it . It was unlike anything he had encountered before , and it elicited an intense sense of danger .

This guy mentioned some modifications that pushed one’s power beyond the natural limits . Has this lunatic actually done the same to himself?’ Rasuliel thought , some worry finally creeping into his heart .

The worry quickly turned into a primal fear in Rasuliel's heart as the aura of the man suddenly skyrocketed as a black rune appeared on his forehead . Lines started to cover his whole body as well , creating a pathway reeking of destruction .

Rasuliel suddenly found himself falling backward as he coughed up a mouthful of blood . Just looking at the fractal caused his Soul to get cut , and a glance indicated that Boje had suffered the same fate .

Stop! - Boje roared as the whole Pill House hummed with power like a beast waking up from its slumber .

One restriction after another appeared in the air , and defensive treasures of inestimable value created an inescapable net around the man who still stood rooted to his spot . But a wave of unadulterated destruction rippled out from his body , and the massive arrays cracked like they were some cheap talismans bought from a flea market .

Thoughts of escape filled Rasuliel's mind , but streams of terrifying power ensconced the whole lobby , cutting off any path of retreat . Rasuilel could only reluctantly turn back toward the human-shaped monster , and he took out a small tube from his Spatial Ring . There was no way he would be able to crush his token and escape from this evil star in time .

He could only bet it all on the cursed object in his hand .

Pain with enough urgency to jolt him awake plagued Zac’s body . He found himself bruised and battered in the middle of a huge pile of rubble , every part of his body hurting beyond imagination .

His vision was a bit blurry , but he still saw the towering trees from Hatcheman’s Spirit] dissipating around him . When had he activated that skill? And why did it look so different from when he tried it out back on earth? The leaves and trunks shouldn't be black .

And where the hell was he? He had been inside the luxurious lounge of the Zethaya Pill House just a second ago .

A broken-off head of a statue depicting some unknown mythological creature jogged Zac’s memory awake . It had been the centerpiece of one of the fountains inside , but now the fountain was gone , replaced with broken pieces of stones and the crushed remnants of the furniture who sat around it .

Zac's mind still had some problems connecting two and two , and his head slowly swiveled around to take in the surroundings . A couple of familiar faces , many with minor wounds and looking haggard , stared back at him from a respectable distance , undisguised horror evident on their faces . It was the other customers and residents of the Zethaya that had spectated his entrance to the Pill House .

Even further back a small crowd had gathered , likely people who were visiting Tower Square . No one dared to take a step forward , and some were even running away after Zac trained his eyes in their direction .

Zac couldn’t bother with the onlookers as his muddled mind tried to compute what the hell was going on . He knew he had been bested by the Splinter once more , and it had caused him to completely lose control when he heard the taunts from that Rasuliel guy .

Normally he might have been annoyed , but he still had years to find a cure for Alea . He wouldn’t risk everything at this juncture just to forcibly steal a treasure . Doing so would cause unneeded enmities and more trouble than it was worth . But the accumulated anger from the Splinter of Oblivion had pushed his rage to unprecedented heights , ruining his plans completely .

Just thirty meters away a young man in a blue robe lay huddled in a fetal position with multiple layers of arrays shimmering around him . Zac realized it was Boje who was still fine albeit somewhat worse for wear . And just in front of him he could see the outline of another body .

He arduously looked down , but he almost immediately regretted it due to two reasons . The first reason was the huge wound that had mangled a large section of his torso , which put both his bones and innards on open display .

The second was the bloody head he held in his right hand , where his fingers were completely entrenched . His index and ring-fingers were pushed all the way through his eyes , and the sockets were still leaking some mix of blood and brain matter . His thumb meanwhile was inserted in the victim’s mouth , making it look like he was holding a bowling ball .

The head wasn’t connected to a body , but a grisly and broken spine dangled from beneath . However , a matching headless corpse lay at Zac's feet , clearly indicating who it was .

Rasuliel Tsarun .

Zac groaned as he knew that he had really caused a shitstorm this time around , but he didn’t feel too broken up about it . He obviously regretted causing this trouble , but Rasuliel was targeting him for some reason . This random guy had caused him so much trouble for no reason at all , and he didn’t feel too broken up about killing him . People died for far less every day .

He irreverently threw away the head before quickly popping one of his best healing pills while he activated his Dao of Trees . His wounds were nothing to scoff at even with his terrifying constitution , and he needed to quickly restore his condition .

The trouble wasn’t over just because he had killed his enemy . There was no doubt in Zac’s mind that he had been the one to make the first move , meaning that retribution would come soon enough . Ogras appeared the next second as if reading his thoughts .

We need to flee . Now , - the demon said with grit teeth .

His usual lackadaisical expression was nowhere to be seen , replaced by a mask of horror .

The tokens? - Zac asked with a hoarse voice .

The two of us were judged complicit of your madness , we’re stuck here , - Ogras said , waving the limp body of Galau in his arms . - This useless guy got so scared that he fainted when you tore down the whole netherblasted building . Throwing out that guy in the beginning wasn’t enough? -

Let’s enter the Tower then , - Zac said , opting to save the explanations for later . - People seem shocked enough to stay away . -

It just takes one , then all hell breaks loose . The bounty on your head is crazy , - Ogras lamented .

Zac nodded and the two unhesitantly sped toward the large platform in front of the Tower after Ogras gripped the body of Rasuliel with a shadow tentacle . There wasn’t any actual door to enter , but rather a teleportation array that took you inside .

He figured that they would be fine as long as they managed to get on the platform in one piece . What happened when they exited tomorrow was Future-Zac’s problem . He would have 100 days to figure out that mess .

The demon’s words , unfortunately , proved prophetic . One impulsive cultivator started rushing after them , and with that the floodgates were opened . Many chose to stand back , but more than half the remaining warriors on the square started rushing toward Zac , and a few cultivators emerged from the nearby buildings as well .

The fact that he looked half-dead with mortal wounds likely emboldened quite a few of the people who had an eye on whatever the System offered for his death . But they had drastically underestimated his constitution , and he still had some fuel left in his tank .

Better yet , he realized he had activated Hatchetman’s Rage] during his rampage , and he still benefitted for its effects . He also still had his most powerful skill . He had apparently torn down the building without using either Deforestation] or Nature's Punishment] somehow . Perhaps it was the other guys who did the heavy lifting in the destruction they caused .

He clearly had activated Hatchetman’s Spirit] since he saw the trees just as they dissipated , but the effects of that skill weren’t really offensive . He had a hard time seeing himself managing to destroy the Pill House just by activating that skill unless he had misunderstood its uses when he tested it . Had he used it by instinct to avoid certain death?

There was the issue of the appearance of the trees though . They looked corrupted for some reason , but he didn’t have time to analyze it before they were gone . He had only tried out the skill once on Mystic Island , and he wasn’t sure of all its uses just yet . Perhaps it changed appearance due to circumstances just like Nature's Punishment] .

He would have to experiment some more inside the tower . Now was not the time . There were more pressing issues to deal with , such as the swarming bounty hunters right on their heels . His body was full of complaints , but Cosmic Energy started to churn through his body .

The huge axe of Deforestation] appeared in the sky above , but its powerful aura only managed to intimidate a scant few . The rest looked like they had eaten stimulants as they kept running toward him , and the whole square shuddered with power from their skills .

Zac had no compunctions about finishing what he started since these people wanted to kill him out of greed . His body screamed in protest from the exertion , but he felt that Hatchetman’s Rage] still had over ten seconds on the clock . It would be enough to do what needed to be done .

This time he wouldn’t hold back as he did against the undead horde , and the Fragment of the Axe Effortlessly slipped into the huge hatchet in the air , causing a terrifying increase in its aura . A few with discerning eyes immediately turned to flee for their lives , but many still kept going .

A small shudder swept out across the square as the hatchet finished its trajectory , and the clamor died down in a second . Most of the attacks aimed at Zac were completely obliterated , with the few remaining losing most of their power . Ogras managed to clear those out with a few shadow-blasts .

However , the results were not quite as impressive as Zac had imagined in his rage-addled brain . Only a dozen died from his attack , while an equal number sported pretty grievous wounds . A small part in the back of his mind reminded him that these were the elites that stood at the peak of the whole sector . Just pushing them back with your own power was a huge accomplishment , let alone killing a bunch of them .

Zac coughed a mouthful of blood as activating the skill in his current condition had put an even worse strain on his body . The gristly wound in his side painted the ground he stepped on red , and he started to feel woozy .

Unfortunately he didn’t manage to deter everyone on the square just with that single swing . In fact , a few people with extremely dense auras had appeared as though out of nowhere , each of them looking like a god of war as they closed in on the three . Going by Zac’s pathetic appearance they no doubt believed he was an arrow at the end of its flight .

His time was running out on his buff , so Zac could ignore his pain and unleash the second swing as well . The shocking Infernal Axe] appeared in the sky above , and a coruscating wave of flames ripped out across the square , slamming straight into the attacks that came their way .

A chaotic mess of fire and dozens of other elements fought for supremacy in the square , causing a shockwave that launched Zac off his feet . It was at this time the timer for Hatcheman’s Rage] dissipated , causing a wave of exhaustion and pain to wash over him .

A sneaky cultivator seemed to have been waiting for this opportunity , and he appeared out of nowhere from the shadows with a sinister dagger poised to strike . But those very shadows immediately turned on the assassin and ripped him to pieces .

Zac’s sight was starting to blur , but a storm of fractal blades blasted through the wall of flames from Deforestation] and flew their way . Zac could immediately sense they contained the energy from a Dao Fragment , and some despair crept into his heart . He was completely spent , and he knew that defense wasn’t Ogras’ strong suit .

Swapping class was out of the question as well , the blades moved far too quickly . But the square was luckily only so big , and they had already reached their destination . With the help of Ogras moving them through the shadows they found themselves atop the platform , and the fragment-imbued blades hit an invisible wall .

The hunters stopped in their tracks as they looked at Zac with greed in their eyes . But they were unwilling to enter the platform since that would only send them into a separate version of the trial . They were no doubt more interested in staying until he reemerged . Zac looked down at the people with his bloodshot eyes , some residual anger reigniting when he saw their greedy expressions .

I will for- , - Zac said with a hoarse voice that echoed across the square , but his grand proclamation was cut off as they were teleported away .

Chapter 397 - Elites

Pretty , why didn’t you join in on the hunt? - Leyara asked with interest as she looked over at her friend with a spurious smile . - Did you know that guy would be so strong? But I still think you would have a chance to trap him . -

I’ve told you a thousand times , call me Daoist Summit Reacher , - the beautiful woman said with an annoyed look as she glanced at Leyara .

This family and their naming sense , Leyara lamented as she shook her head . And wasn’t it Swordmistress Grace last time?

The two sat at a friends’ viewing terrace that overlooked the Tower Square and the entrance to the Tower of Eternity . They had all gotten the quest , but only Ulmar and Presseus had made a move . They now sat to the side with their frizzy hair , looking a bit embarrassed . They probably hadn’t expected to get drowned in a sea of high-grade flames infused with a Dao Fragment the moment they set out .

So? - Leyara probed .

Pretty was the strongest person here , which meant she was one of the strongest people in Base Town , especially now that Reoluv had left . Furthermore , as the granddaughter of that war maniac she was probably loaded with nasty treasures perfect to create havoc . It was a bit surprising she didn’t make a move considering the quest reward . It was something that only those with the stoutest Dao Hearts would be able to resist .

That guy was always so annoying , stupid upstart family . It’s not my problem he got himself killed . The latest Zethaya generation must have let their excessive wealth turn their brains into excrement for things get out of hand like that . Why should I exert myself to clean up their mess? - Pretty shrugged with disinterest .

But that guy who was with him came from your Allbright Empire though? - Leyara said with an impish smile . - I remember him hiding in the corner looking scared at the party you held a month ago . -

Leyara was so bored after all these gatherings and auctions . There was finally something interesting happening , and she couldn’t help but try to stir the pot a bit to make things even more exciting . She knew things would get chaotic if Pretty made a move .

She didn’t just have one or two suitors who had timed their climb to be here at the same time as her . Intergalactic dating was pretty hard after all , especially opportunities to meet outside the gaze of the elders . No matter if she decided to help or hunt the results no doubt be spectacular to witness .

I’m not from the Imperial family , why should I care about what some guy from our Empire does or what company he keeps? I don’t even think he’s from the Empyrean sector , - Pretty said with disinterest .

Yeah… But your grandfather… - Leyara said .

What does grandpa have to do with some small squabbles between the younger generation? - Pretty snorted .

Leyara only rolled her eyes and gave up . It looked like she wouldn’t be able to drag her old friend into the mess .

Besides , the fun has only started , - Pretty suddenly said with a smile .

Oh? - Leyara asked , hope reigniting .

Haven’t you noticed? We all still have the quest even though a few minutes have passed . I think the Ruthless Heavens doesn’t feel this play has acted itself out yet . Won’t he be kicked out of the tower in a day at most? -

Leyara’s eyes lit up in excitement as she looked down at the large crowd who stayed by the entrance . Only a few were leaving , but most seemed content to simply wait , intently waiting for that lunatic to return .

What do you think , Pretty? - Leyara said . - Will he survive? Do you think I should join in on the fun? -

I know you don’t care about which floor you end up on , why should you join this fight? As for whether he will survive…? - Pretty said with a mysterious smile . - I think he will surprise us all . -

And don’t call me Pretty . -

Catheya looked down at the square from the window far up in the tower belonging to the Undead Empire , her pitch-black eyes absorbing the candlelight like two black holes . Calmness had already returned to the core area after the destruction of the Zethaya Pill house , but a storm was still raging inside her heart .

Did you find out the identity of the man? - Catheya asked into the shadows , eliciting a dour zombie to emerge .

I am afraid not , mistress , - the zombie said with a bow . - The warrior entered the Pill House by challenging their array , and he only identified himself as Zac before things deteriorated . However , I did manage to find out a few facts from one of the assistants . -

Oh? - Catheya looked over at Varo , the leader of her deathsworn and her personal steward .

He was able to forcibly pass through the array by virtue of his attributes alone . His constitution should be quite impressive . Also , his main goal of visiting the Zethaya was to find a cure for a fractured soul . It seemed quite urgent for him , - the zombie finished .

A fractured soul? - Catheya mumbled , her pale lips curving slightly upward . - The Zethaya better pray that man never grows too powerful . Such a response when he came looking for medicine will no doubt plant a seed of intense grudge . Was that what he wanted to say before he got whisked away? -

Do you wish us to prepare an ambush of him for when he exits? - the Zombie probed . - A free level would guarantee smoothly passing the 7th floor . -

No , it would be shameful to use such a crutch in this place . Besides , I have some confidence in passing the 7th floor without any outside assistance . By the way , who was the man he killed? - Catheya asked as she looked over at her assistant .

Rasuliel Tsarun . A main branch descendant of the Tsarun clan , but only of middling import . He was a talent to be nurtured , but not in line for succession , - Varo said .

Tsarun? Never heard of them , - Catheya muttered .

They are a somewhat young force local to this remote sector . They have some connections to the local kingdoms of our Empire , mainly providing high-quality corpses , - Varo dutifully reported .

How many of that clan are here right now? - Catheya asked .

One more main branch member , 8 from side branches , and 17 employees , - Varo said without missing a beat .

Are you confident in killing them all? - Catheya asked .

We might have to sacrifice one or two of our deathsworn , but our situation is generally favorable , - the zombie thoughtfully answered , not caring why her mistress wanted to kick the Tsarun Clan out of the Base Town . - Rasuliel was the strongest member of their force . He likely carried most of their treasures as well , leaving the rest somewhat exposed . -

Good , do it , - Catheya nodded .

If I may , mistress . This might cause friction between the local kingdoms and the Tsarun clan , negatively impacting their access to new bodies , - the steward added . - These kingdoms are newly formed and have few avenues for such resources . -

What do I care about that? We’re only here because Master had an epiphany and needed to enter secluded cultivation for a few years , - Catheya shrugged . - If it truly turns into a problem I’ll ask master compensate the local kings after he exits . -

By your will , - Varo bowed and melded back into the shadows .

Catheya’s abyssal eyes once again turned toward the tower , her thoughts a confused jumble . There was no way that she was wrong in her conclusion . That crazy warrior carried a hint of aura from her clan’s progenitor . But that should be completely impossible .

Her family didn’t have any connection to this sector , and she and her master only passed by here during their travels by chance . More importantly , their progenitor left their clan well over a million years ago as she found herself facing the inevitable madness of advanced age .

She created two grand treasures to defend their clan against annihilation , and these treasures were still consecrated by the whole family once a year to maintain the aura of the progenitor . But they had never heard from the ancestor after she left , and every one long believed that she found her end during her search for a way to break through .

Was the grand ancestor still alive? That would mean that she either had managed to break through or found a way to stave off the madness . She couldn’t wait for that axe-wielding warrior to emerge . Killing a couple of local noblemen would be a small price to pay for such a valuable piece of information .

But if the progenitor was truly alive , why hadn’t she come back during all this time? Was she trapped somewhere and needed assistance? And why had she left her mark on a human? Was he her disciple? It sounded preposterous , but she had her reasons for believing it to be true .

There was an undeniable sense of death surrounding him . It might be impossible to sense for the humans around him , but how could a pure-bred Draugr of an ancient heritage not feel the aura of undeath?

That warrior might hold the clues to the questions that ailed her , and she couldn’t wait for him to emerge once again .

Just who was that man?

A rancid odor rose from the cauldron , telling Boje that he had actually failed in concocting a basic Golden Constitution Pill] . It was one of the first recipes he learned while still a teenager , and something he would be able to concoct in his sleep . Yet it had failed today .

The knock on the door made Boje flinch in fear , a sheen of perspiration covering on his forehead . He tightly gripped his fists in an effort to stop their trembling as he tried to get his fraying emotions under check .

Enter , - he said , trying to sound as unruffled and confident as possible .

He couldn’t let the world know that the past encounter had scared him shitless . Others were discussing how to capture the man when he emerged in a day , but Boje only contemplated means of surviving . They hadn't seen those eyes filled with unending madness or felt the aura sharp enough to wound souls .

The reward was certainly alluring , but he wouldn’t challenge that god of death . He’d rather take his chances with the floor guardian at the 6th floor than standing in front of that Asura again .

The door opened and his manservant entered holding a clipboard .

The regeneration of the main hall is essentially finished , apart from some furnishings that are still being made . We paid 2 . 7 billion to have the Bruckner expedite the process . But we expect it will take at least a month before The Boundless Heavens restores the array functionality , - Ulred said .

That’s to be expected , - Boje nodded . - Take out our 4th and 7th sealed treasures to solidify the main hall . -

The fourth treasure costs almost 20 billion Nexus Coins a day to keep active , - the Steward reminded .

I’ll take responsibility for the cost , - Boje said . - We have many guests staying with us , and we need to show some sincerity . At least until the issue with that man has been dealt with . -

Regarding that… What are your instructions? - the manservant hesitantly asked .

Boje knew there was some confusion amongst their ranks . He had immediately entered seclusion , citing a need to ponder on new insights gained from witnessing the battle . But truthfully he had just been scared and wanted to hide away in his sanctum .

It was a shame that Rasuliel had gotten himself killed , robbing Boje the chance of killing that idiot himself . The amount of trouble that guy had created for the Zethaya was inestimable . That guy was completely unknown but insanely strong . Who knew if he'd pop out of nowhere in a few thousand years as a C-Grade hegemon , destroying their strongholds one by one?

Such things happening was all too common .

Of course , he knew that he was the one to blame in the end . Rasuliel had stuffed his pockets full of rare herbs to help progress his crafts , and Boje had felt that it wouldn't be such a big deal even if he bent the Family Rules a bit to reciprocate . His mind had been muddled from the opportunity of concocting a pill with such a rare item as a base .

It would probably have been enough to progress his craft to the next level . But now it was all for naught .

But the steward asked a valid question . How should the Zethaya respond?

Send someone with an invoice for the furnishings and the Prajñā Cherry] to the Tsarun Clan . Also indicate we're expecting an explanation as to why Rasuliel initiated a fight within our compound , even going so far as to take out a peak offensive treasure while I stood right next to him , - Boje finally said .

Certainly , - Ulred nodded . - And the man who entered the tower? There have also been quite a few forces who have approached us for information regarding that man . -

There's no need to hide anything , - Boje eventually said . - Tell them what we know . It's not much anyway . But keep the seal on his transformation or the battle itself . -

Certainly , - Ulred agreed as he scribbled down a few notes . - All the guests and personnel have already signed contracts of secrecy . It will not leak . -

Good , - Boje said . - We'll wait and see how things turn out tomorrow . Perhaps there is some way for us to turn this calamity into an opportunity . -

Chapter 398 - Piker

Darkness quickly gave way to light , and Zac in his muddled state was a bit confused when he was met with a prompt that covered his whole vision .

Tower of Eternity entered . Use pseudonym or real name?]

It was just like when the ladder system was initiated back in the day , and Zac looked at the prompt blankly for a few seconds . The events that just had transpired made him unwilling to use his real name , but he also didn’t want to be known as the Super Brother-Man again . He had already introduced himself as Zac at the Zethaya , and Boje was still alive , so he was a bit unsure what to do .

But suddenly he had a spark of inspiration .

Zac Piker , - Zac said with a raspy voice .

Piker was his mother’s maiden name , at least according to his dad . Zac had been one year when they married , and Leandra took on Robert’s last name . By now Zac realized it was probably a fake name she used when she arrived on Earth , which made it a solid option to choose .

Picking this pseudonym was a way for him to signal his mother that they were alive . She would perhaps hear of the name somehow , especially if he climbed far enough , and come help them out with their situation back on Earth .

The scene quickly changed and Zac found himself sitting on by a camp-fire , joined by his two travel companions and a headless corpse . The moment the prompt disappeared Zac felt a pang of worry , and he couldn’t help but wonder if he had just made a monumental mistake choosing that name . But done was done , and Zac rather focused on the others .

Galau had woken up at some time during their frantic escape , and he currently sat on the ground looking as though his soul had left him . His eyes were glazed as they stared into the distance , void of thought and hope . Ogras was instead staring evenly at Zac , his eyes rife with unspoken words .

I’m sorry , I didn’t expect that to happen , - Zac coughed as he scratched his chin . - But I did get a treasure for Alea I think . -

Of course , his true feelings weren’t quite as calm as he wanted to let on . The Splinter had thoroughly screwed him over this time , to the point of no return . Zac groaned as reached for his Cosmos Sack and took out a Nexus Crystal to start restoring his energy .

The combination of his terrible wounds , using Hatchetman’s Rage] , and activating the first two swings of Deforestation] had really done a number on his body , and he felt so weak that a level 20 would be able to wring his neck if they wanted to .

Luckily he hadn’t suffered any wounds to his soul , so he had no problem activating his Dao of Trees to help recuperating . The Dao soothed his harried body , and he finally had a chance to look around .

If it wasn’t for him remembering entering the Tower he would have thought they had left the special dimension and were teleported somewhere on Earth . He knew that the place was magical , but he had underestimated the Tower of Eternity .

Zac had somewhat expected to find himself inside some sort of maze , where he had to beat the floor boss to proceed to the next floor , like some old school dungeon crawler . But he was currently sitting in front of a fire in a small glade . Around him was a tranquil leafy forest , and there was even a normal sky when he looked up through the canopy .

Nothing about this place felt like either a tower or some sort of Trial , but rather a simple camping trip that brought back his memories to the day that the Integration took place . They were only missing the trusty camper and a cooler full of beer to complete the experience . But everyone present obviously didn’t share Zac’s nostalgia .

I’m finished , - Galau said with hollow eyes from across the fire . - My cousins will tell the elders what transpired . I will be sacrificed to the Zethaya Clan in an effort to curry favor and distance themselves from you two lunatics . -

Well , this is our bad , - Zac said , but corrected himself after seeing the face Ogras was making . - Fine , my bad . I got a bit heated and things got out of hand . We will do our best to make things right for you . -

You can always say that we kidnapped you , - Ogras finally said after releasing a heavy sigh . - We did carry you into the tower after all . -

Galau didn’t answer , as he kept looking into the distance with a face full of regrets . Zac and Ogras could hear him mumbling under his breath , but Zac could only make out - Why did I sit down at that table?’ . Ogras only rolled his eyes before he turned to Zac .

Are you okay? -

Can you give me a few hours? - Zac sighed .

It’s fine , we’re not short on time any longer , - Ogras shrugged . - We’ll wait . -

Zac nodded in thanks and arduously got up from his sitting position , but he suddenly turned back toward the fire as he took out the small vial he got from Boje .

Can you tell me what this is? - Zac asked as he waved it at Galau .

The youth initially wanted to ignore him , but he soon enough reluctantly got up to his feet to look at the bottle .

It’s actually a bottle of High-Grade Serene Flesh Pill] . It’s part of the Zethaya Pill House Serene Path-series of healing and nurturing pills . These three pills are worth almost 200 Million Nexus coins! - Galau blurted out . - The Zethaya truly have the best stuff . -

Can you be sure that it’s not poisoned or something? - Zac asked .

He initially hadn’t planned on eating these things , but if he only relied on his own pills and constitution he would be in a bad shape for weeks , which was too much time to waste even within the Tower . He literally had pieces of guts dangling down from the side , and he was hesitant to move around as it was .

Galau looked a bit confused , but his eyes started shimmering with a slight glow , indicating he was using some sort of ocular skill .

It looks fine to me? - Galau said . - Besides , I think the Zethaya wouldn’t do something to create poison pills disguised as their healing pills . Such a thing would cause massive harm to their reputation . They would rather offer an extreme bounty for your capture if they wanted to deal with you . -

Zac felt it made sense , and he took out one of the pills that looked like a pristine pearl . It was a lot better than any pill he had found during the hunt or bought from Calrin . His gut feeling didn’t warn him either , so he quickly popped the pill into his mouth as he went over to the body of Rasuliel . He searched through his clothes , but a frown started to emerge when he couldn't find what he was looking for .

Where is the Cosmos Sack? - Zac muttered , worried that he had lost it during the battle . - I clearly saw him putting away a treasure . -

It’s probably the ring on his finger , - Ogras muttered . - Rich bastard . -

Zac suddenly remembered Calrin mentioning that the high-class Cosmos Sacks were jewelry rather than literal sacks . They were a lot more valuable as they required a craftsman proficient in the Dao of Space to create .

He twisted the ring off from Rasuliel’s finger and limped over to a tree some distance from the campsite . Zac needed to rest a bit and let the pill do its magic . His head was also a complete mess for some reason , and he needed to restore his mental state as well .

Sitting alone in the forest full of wounds made his thoughts go back to his first months on the island , where his body was always in various state of disrepair . He usually felt like a completely different person compared to the guy who kept getting himself in trouble while fighting the dumb demonic beasts , but sometimes it seemed like he hadn’t actually improved all that much .

Zac restarted his recuperation with practiced ease as he went over what had just happened . The whole fight was just a jumbled mess in his mind , and he couldn’t remember the details . Had he forgotten due to his anger , or had the splinter actually controlled him? The distinction was extremely important , and he quickly looked inward to check up on the splinter .

The Splinter of Oblivion] was extremely docile at the moment , and it had retracted all its tentacles that usually tried to finagle their way out of the miasmic prison in his head . It didn’t release any of that odd energy into his mind either , making the funnel completely empty . But that alone didn’t bring any comfort to Zac at all , and the reason was simple .

One of the Miasmic Runes were missing .

He had looked at the runes that encircled the Splinter of Oblivion] many times in an attempt to understand them , and he was certain that there were one fewer of them now . Initially there had been nine of them , but now only eight remained , making the gap between them slightly larger .

Worry filled Zac’s heart , and he started to wonder if the protection of the mysterious Draugr lady was failing . If the runes disappeared with this speed then he would lose all protection in just a few years . He might be able to reach peak E-Grade in ten years if he pushed himself , but he knew that wasn’t enough to control the effects of the splinter .

Or perhaps it happened because he lost control due to his anger . It had empowered the Splinter enough to break one of the runes , resulting in the destruction that followed . If that was the case he would have to focus on ways to fortify his mind to avoid such a scene repeating itself .

Unfortunately there wasn’t much he could do about the issue as things currently stood , and he retracted his mind from the splinter .

He instead looked down on his finger to see that the ring Calrin lent him had lost all its luster , and the large inlaid crystal looked like a murky piece of glass . Zac couldn’t help but groan when he saw the sight . This had been his strongest defensive ace , but he only had one use of it and it had been expended before he even entered the tower .

It was a poignant reminder that he wasn’t invulnerable even with his massive pool of attributes . Everyone had their own advantages and hidden aces . That Rasuliel hadn’t seemed like a peak genius , yet he had almost killed Zac even if he activated the ring . There was also the attack fueled by a Dao Fragment that almost hit him as they fled , indicating his level of insight wasn't anything unique in the Tower .

At least his battle came with a few upsides Zac reckoned as he turned his attention to Rasuliel’s Spatial Ring . It had turned into an ownerless item since the guy died , allowing Zac to immediately bind it . But he was surprised when he saw the somewhat limited space when he inspected the insides .

The space was only a bit larger compared to the ordinary Cosmos Sacks that cost just a few million Nexus Coins . Zac had expected a spatial tool belonging to a rich guy like that to be able to store mountain ranges if needed , but he guessed he had severely underestimated the difficulty of making Spatial Rings . The space in his own cosmos sack was a lot larger than this .

However , it was a lot more convenient compared to the Cosmos Sack . He needed to physically touch a sack to take out an item , but he could simply will the ring to spit out its contents since it was already on his hand . That would allow him to take out his axe or a defensive treasure a lot quicker , which might be the difference between life and death . He also knew that the space inside a Spatial Ring was a lot more stable , whereas Cosmos Sacks needed to be replaced at regular intervals as to not lose the contents .

Just the ring itself was an amazing treasure worth well over a Billion Nexus Coins , yet he knew that was only the tip of the iceberg after a cursory glance at the contents . He immediately found the box that Rasuliel put away just before the battle started , and just that box alone almost made Zac feel the danger he found himself in worth it .

He still couldn’t be certain that the Prajñā Cherry] would be enough to heal Alea , but it would no doubt make her situation better than it currently was . If he could prolong the time she could stay inside the coffin to a few decades he felt confident he would be able to find a few more treasures to feed her .

Perhaps the Tree of Ascension would be able to produce another fruit as well , and with its odd mutation it might be able to help the Poison Mistress .

Of course , the cherry was just one of a large number of treasures , making Zac feel that expending the charge on his ring to not be the end of the world . There were no doubt more defensive treasures in the Spatial Tool that Rasuliel didn’t have a chance to use during their hectic battle .

Zac took out one box or vial after another , glancing at their contents . All of them were clearly good items judging by their spiritual emanations , but he had no idea what they did . He could have Galau go through the things to find anything that would be useful during the climb . But he suddenly froze after opening a particular box .

Wasn’t that the Eye of the Pathfinder Oracle?

Chapter 399 - The Peaks

Who would have thought that it was actually Rasuliel Tsarun who coughed up a shocking 78 billion Nexus Coins to buy this thing? Zac had already learned that while the Eye was a precious item , it wasn’t worth nowhere such an obscene amount . Galau had explained that it would go for at most 20 billion Nexus Coins in the outside world .

There were many ways to upgrade one's specialty core , such as the pills Zethaya Pill House provided . Those pills cost less than a billion Nexus Coins , a far cry from the shocking amount the Eye ended up at . Most proper heritages with instructions on forming Specialty Cores also came with methods to evolving them , making Zac suspect that Rasuliel wanted the Eye for some other purpose than himself .

Did Rasuliel perhaps have some urgent need for the Eye , prompting him to pay through his nose? That might have been why he visited the Zethaya Clan as well . He might have been looking for help in turning the Eye into some specific pill with the help of Boja or some of his elders back home .

Of course , Rasuliel's reasons for overpaying for the item no longer mattered .

Getting his hands on the Eye meant that he had essentially acquired everything on his list before arriving at the Tower of Eternity . Now he only needed to get out in one piece , and he would have all the tools he needed to burst out with a huge amount of power after returning to Earth .

He finally retracted his mind from the Spatial Ring and refocused on recuperating . The Serene Flesh Pill] did wonders to his body , but then it still took a few hours before he felt well enough to even walk any distance . His wound was still an open mess though , and one could see his body slowly growing new cells to restore the hole in his side .

Zac guessed that it would take a few days for his wounds to close completely , and a few days more for him to regain his full strength . It was an extremely long convalescence for someone like Zac with a huge pool of Endurance and Vitality , but it would have been even longer if it wasn't for the pill .

There was an unmistakable aura of a strong Dao in his wound that slowed down his efforts to heal up , but he wasn't as helpless as when Mhal infected him with the Draugr samples . He was slowly grinding down the foreign Dao with his fragments , and it wouldn't be long before all of it was expended .

His Spirit Tool Robes also had mended themselves by this point , which at least blocked the grisly sight of his wound . He got up to his feet with a grunt and returned to the campsite , only to find Ogras leisurely sipping wine from one of the dozens of vats he had bought during the past week . Galau still sat and stared despondently into the great beyond , and didn't even give Zac a glance when he returned .

He’s still out of it? - Zac asked with confusion .

Sheltered brat , all despondent after a little bit of mayhem , - Ogras snorted with some derision before he turned to Zac . - Now , can you explain what the hell happened? The plan was for you to buy some healing pills . How did that turn into you tearing down the Pill House of an ancient clan and ripping the head off this poor bastard? -

Even if the demon appeared unbothered on the surface it was obvious he was a bit frazzled by the events as well . He looked back and forth between the headless body of Rasuliel and Zac , clearly trying to get a grip on the situation .

Zac sighed as he recounted the whole encounter from the moment he entered , adding on his own speculation about Rasuliel being from one of the ousted families of Earth . He didn’t hide the fact that they came from a newly integrated planet since he felt Galau deserved to understand the situation after having been dragged into this level of trouble .

What' you're progenitors? But what about… . Wait , he’s from the Tsarun Clan? - Galau cried when he heard about the identity of the corpse . - Oh , Mommy . -

You know about them? - Zac asked curiously and a bit accusatory . - I still don’t know why he targeted me , do you have some sort of feud with them? -

Ahem… - Ogras coughed . - It’s the Tsarun , remember? Calrin’s old friends? -

Only then did Zac remember why the name was so familiar . It was the old Clan that had worked on stealing Calrin’s Mercantile License for centuries . If that man knew who Zac was , then it would explain his hostility . Who knew how much time and effort clan had spent only for Zac to foil their plans inadvertently .

I wonder how that Tsarun guy could know that I was the one who helped Calrin though , - Zac muttered . - It looked like he knew right away . -

Who’s Calrin? - Galau finally asked .

A merchant targeted by the Tsarun clan fled to my planet , I gave them a place to stay in exchange for a part of his business , - Zac shrugged .

So you had already made that clan your enemy even before you came here? - Galau blankly asked , looking ready to barf . - Those guys are extremely overbearing . Their patriarch is dead-set on elevating their clan to a peak force , and they don't shy away from any means . They're almost bordering on turning into an unorthodox force , but they stay just within the limits to not get targeted . -

Yes , I didn’t expect them to be here , or that they’d find out about me , - Zac shrugged . - Do you know how that’s possible? -

Galau’s distraught eyes focused for a second , but a frown slowly crept onto his face .

I don’t know either . The world is full of mysterious skills and arrays though . Do you wear anything bought through that store they were targeting? - he asked .

Zac considered for a few seconds before his eyes turned to the defensive ring given to him by Calrin . Ogras’ eyes lit up as well as he looked down at his hand .

I’ll punt that little blue bastard over to the next island next time I see him . Did he do it on purpose to make us complicit? - the demon muttered with annoyance before he wryly smiled at Zac . - I think our plan of feigning ignorance and handing over Calrin in case we meet the Tsarun elders is ruined now . -

Zac could only snort in response . Ruined felt like an understatement after killing one of the young masters of the clan .

The real issue is how you’ll deal with this . Remember , we’ll only be inside here for a day . By that point those guys might have amassed a small army outside to welcome our return , - the demon added .

Well , can’t we just zap out the moment we leave the tower? - Zac asked . - It’s a shame to leave so early , but there’s no option . The 60-second limiter should have passed by now , right? Or maybe we can even leave right here? -

We can’t leave the Tower straight to our homeworld , - Ogras said with a shake of his head . - You can only use the token to leave the Tower , then you can use it again to leave this dimension . And I don’t know how it works for us . This situation is outside my general knowledge . -

Maybe if we climb high enough they’ll back off? - Zac ventured . - Or at least hesitate long enough for us to teleport out? -

Wait! - Galau suddenly exclaimed as he turned to Zac looking like a drowning man finding a glimmer of hope . - Pretty Peak is in the Base town! Can you ask her for help? -

Pretty Peak? Who the hell is that? - Ogras said .

The Peak family of the Allbright Empire! - Galau explained as he pointed at Zac . - He clearly has a connection to them , and they are both strong and overbearing enough to make the Tsarun Clan back down . Even the Zethaya might give them face if they know you are related . -

I don’t know what you’re talking about , - Zac said , and he wasn’t lying . - Who are the Peak family? -

Your bracer , - Galau said . - It is no doubt made by someone from the Peak family . They utilize a unique crafting method that’s easily distinguishable if you know what to look for . -

So that spiel about the fear in our eyes the other day was all dogshit? You simply recognized the bracer this guy wore and figured we were strong? - Ogras snorted .

Well… I did not really lie . I simply didn’t explain all my reasons for employing you , - Galau coughed before his face once again was marred by despair . - But what good did my planning do? No one will believe the authenticity of my climb after having seen your rampage . You will no doubt reach the sixth floor , perhaps even conquering it . -

Tell me what you know about the Peak family , - Zac said with interest , ignoring the complaints of Galau .

He had held back on mentioning Greatest and Average since he didn’t want to expose his connection to them , but it looked like it was for naught . Galau had known about it since the start , and had even used the connection as a measure of his strength .

It’s a unique family in the Allbright Empire . It can’t really be called a clan since there are only a hundred members or so in the family . But all of them are crazy strong . The patriarch of the family is Ultimate , one of the four Marshalls of the Allbright Empire . He is a friend of the emperor himself , - Galau said .

What about Pretty? Is she Ultimate’s daughter? - Zac asked .

No , grand-daughter . Her father is Strongest , the eldest of the three sons of Ultimate . The other two are Greatest and Fiercest , - Galau said .

What’s with these names? - Ogras snorted .

Zac kept asking a bit about the family without making it obvious who in the family he had a connection with . It turned out that the Peak family actually lived in the capital of the Allbright Empire , but most members were out battling . Greatest had headed to the Red Sector in order to find dangerous criminals to fight .

The Red Sector was apparently one of the more remote zones of the Allbright Empire , and bordering it was a large unclaimed sector with a huge number of spatial anomalies . It made both teleportation arrays impossible to construct while also making it extremely dangerous to travel with Cosmic Ships .

This had turned the sector to a mostly lawless no man's land where unorthodox forces , pirates , and other dangerous people hid . The Allbright Empire often launched assaults on the area , but it was an absolute rat’s nest that was almost impossible to completely cleanse .

Apart from the Allbright armies , the Red Zone was also rife with bounty hunters and mercenary squads hoping to make a killing inside the unclaimed territory . The numerous anomalies created a unique atmosphere that regularly gave birth to valuable treasures . Sometimes extremely valuable items were even spat out through a spatial tear , coming from god knows where .

It was in that chaotic space that Greatest sought to hone himself through bloodshed .

Zac suddenly remembered the conversation between Greatest and Average . He had mentioned asking the Red Emperor to allow Average to enter some Eternal Legion . Was the Eternal Legion one of the punitive armies that regularly tried to clean out the pirates and other scum in the lawless zone?

Zac's mouth turned upward slightly when he imagined that gaudy teenager being forced to fight ruthless pirates or crazy cultists while still at F or Early E-Grade . Even strong E-Grade warriors should be at risk there , as people who had the ability to traverse between planets should be very powerful .

He wasn't all too worried about his safety though . Greatest's family was a lot more impressive than he had imagined , and there was no doubt someone hiding in the shadows making sure that Average didn't actually kick the bucket .

But Zac knew that just because he had met those two during his Hegemony trial , there was no way that he could completely rely on them to clean up his mess .

I truthfully have no connection with that family . I only got this bracer through a chance encounter , - Zac said . - I had never heard of Pretty Peak before today , so I doubt that she would extend a hand to help with our situation . -

Galau looked completely crestfallen , but Zac was internally delighted . Greatest was from a force far stronger than he had expected , with multiple C-Grade powerhouses in its ranks . Perhaps he could ask this Pretty for a way to save Earth from the Great Redeemer .

Chapter 400 - The Law of the Land

The problem was that Zac’s connection to the Peak Family wasn’t all that deep . It was simply a chance encounter between himself and Greatest . Perhaps they would have lent a helping hand if it was before , but now he had a bulls-eye on his back due to the quest .

It was one thing for them to stand up against a solitary D-Grade warrior , but another thing entirely to create enmity with all the forces in the Base Town in order to protect him .

We’ll just have to play it by the ear . In case we get split up later , remember to stay until the time runs out , so that we all exit this place at the same time , - Ogras said as he walked over to Galau . - Get up , there’s no time to waste . -

You are from a recently integrated planet so you don’t understand just how troublesome people you've offended . We need to figure out a way to make amends! - Galau said as he finally dragged himself back to his feet .

We won’t apologize to those assholes . Why was it so hard for them to sell one puny healing treasure? - Ogras snorted . - I say good riddance . Seeing how they acted they would just have caused problems for us even if we cowered in their presence . Might as well be proactive and kill them first . -

Zac nodded in agreement . He wouldn’t have acted the way he did if it wasn’t for the Splinter in his mind , but he was pretty annoyed even without it . That guy wanted Alea to die out of pure spite , even though they had never met before . All because some unverified clue that he had some connections to the Thayer Consortia .

Anyway , let’s get going , - Zac said after throwing the demon a nod in thanks for the support . - How do we get to the next floor? -

Galau looked at Zac incredulously , obviously shocked at how uninformed he was . Ogras wasn’t as surprised of course , as he was the source of everything Zac knew about the tower .

The Tower contains various challenges , and which challenge you will encounter at a specific floor varies . The only way to completely prepare for a climb is to be good at everything , which is of course impossible , - the demon said .

Challenges? Like what? - Zac asked with interest .

Zac hadn’t actually bothered to learn too much about the tower itself until now . He had been so consumed with finding all the things he needed for himself , Earth , and Alea in the Base Town . Ogras had already mentioned that you could brute-force your way through the tower , but he needed to know how things worked now .

Besides , it wasn’t like Ogras was a wellspring of information . Getting anything out of the demon when it didn’t benefit him was like squeezing water out of a rock .

It can be anything . It can be passing an array , like you did at the Pill House , finding a treasure , identifying the source of a curse , saving someone , - Ogras explained and listed a handful of other challenges the demon himself encountered .

Zac frowned since his skillset was quite limited . He had a basic understanding of arrays , but that was about it . How the hell would he dispel a curse or complete a summoning ritual for a departed ancestor? He knew nothing about pill concoction , tracking , or any other of the myriad side occupations in existence .

Don’t worry , The Ruthless Heaven’s always leaves a path of survival , - Ogras smiled . - There is a second option , one that suits you better . -

Oh? - Zac perked up .

Just blast through everything . Might over technique , - the demon grinned . - There is always the option to just kill something instead of completing the quest . It might sometimes be a bit unclear just what needs to be killed though , so make sure you think it through before you start swinging . Killing the wrong person might have odd consequences . -

Zac sighed in relief . It was just like the System to provide a back-up solution like that , it truly preferred violence over shrewdness .

The three finally got ready to leave the glade they wound up in , and Zac put the headless corpse of Rasuliel into his Cosmos Sack after some deliberation . Perhaps it would come in handy for some reason when they emerged from the tower .

By the way , what was the reward? - Zac suddenly asked with some morbid curiosity as they walked . - What was my life worth? -

One free level . -

One free level? That’s it? - Zac asked incredulously , and he even started to feel a bit insulted by the System .

That’s a huge reward! - Galau said . - I’ve never heard of such a big reward before at Base Town . It’s usually things like clue crystals that provide hints on how to complete a single quest , but yours is simply one free level . -

Oh , so a level for the tower? Still , what’s the big deal if you get to one level higher? - Zac asked .

Because it might allow you to completely skip the final challenge of a floor . Over 90% of all trail takers get stuck at the final challenge of a floorsince the difficulty is way higher there than the earlier levels . Blasting past that trial will get you fame , rewards , and a better title , - Ogras explained . - Just look at Reoluv . If he managed to kill you first he would reach the fabled 8th floor rather than being stuck on 7th . It's the difference between once a decade genius and once a millennia genius . I’d be tempted to take you on right now myself if you weren’t such a monster . -

Zac only rolled his eyes in response , but he suddenly realized that Ogras wasn’t just messing around . The demon was subtly telling him that the quest was still active . And while Galau felt like a slightly hapless youngster he wouldn’t be here unless he was an elite .

It wasn’t unthinkable that Galau would try to kill him sooner or later , as that would not only let him pass another level , but it might also allow him to survive the storm that was no doubt brewing outside the tower . If Galau presented his head to the Zethaya or Tsarun Clans he might even get a huge reward .

Well , thank you for your restraint , - Zac quickly answered , adding half-jokingly . - I guess I will have to sleep with one eye open . -

The three walked through the tranquil forest for the better part of an hour , and interestingly there wasn’t a single predator in sight . He did spot a level 20 bird , but it was pretty small and kept a wide berth from the three .

This was of course fine with Zac who was in no fighting condition at the moment , but it was a bit confusing for someone who had been primed to fight some peak F-Grade boss to complete a trial . Zac was just about to ask what was going on when the scenery changed .

The forest gave way to cultivated farmland that stretched out across the horizon , and a small farming village could be seen in the distance . The whole scene felt extremely calm and idyllic , but Zac was dragged out of his reverie by a prompt from the System .

The Village of Whittlecreek of the Bravorian Kingdom has lately been subject to an increasing number of raids from Fallen Goblins . Find out the source of the new threat

Did you get the prompt about Whittlecreek as well? - Zac asked curiously .

Yes , this is our first trial , - Ogras said as he pointed at the pastoral village in the distance . - I guess it can be categorized under information gathering . Let’s head over to the town first . -

Is there anything else I should know? - Zac said . - The people in the town , for example . Are they real? -

That’s a subject of some debate , - Galau said , finally getting into the spirit of adventure . - Some believe these people are real , but others say there are simply illusions or lifelike puppets created by the System . They do all give Cosmic Energy when killed though , which give more credence to the first theory . -

The Ruthless Heavens can simply provide energy itself though , - Ogras interjected .

Zac nodded in agreement , remembering how the System had provided Cosmic Energy for destroying robots back at the Technocrat Incursion .

That’s true , - Galau nodded , before turning back to Zac . - The reason that a large group believes these are just puppets is that they simply ignore all comments about the Tower or the world outside . It doesn’t matter what you do or say , these villagers will truly believe they are from Whittlecreek in the Bravorian Kingdom . -

The people are also never surprised to see or hostile against other races , like they don’t even know that a huge golem or a humanoid fish is standing in front of them . The villagers would still welcome Mr . Azh’Rodum even if the quest was to rebuff enemy demons , - Galau added .

Ogras had introduced himself using the name of the demon town on his island rather than his true last name even before they entered the tower , and Zac guessed he had done the same when prompted by the system . The demon still didn’t want any clues about his situation leaking back to the demon hordes in case it would bring trouble to either his grandfather or Earth .

There was also the issue of Karmic threads and other troublesome skills . Not using your true name wasn’t a foolproof plan , but it did make various types of information gathering slightly harder . That’s was another reason Zac chose to use his alias as well , apart from sending out a hidden signal to his mother in case she was listening .

So how would we normally complete a trial like this? - Zac asked .

This is the very first level , so it should be possible to complete quickly , - Ogras said . - I would guess that there is a clue in the town itself that would allow us to complete the trial , or at least give us a clear hint of where to go . -

But that’s the hard way , what about defeating the guardian or whatever? - Zac asked .

The guardian would probably be the boss of the Fallen Goblins , and we would no doubt find out where he is soon after entering the town , - Ogras said . - Completing the normal way would be to find out why the Goblin tribe moved here . My guess is that a rival Country is trying to weaken them by tricking these vermin to raid the farmlands . -

Zac looked over at the talkative demon with surprise . It sounded like he had thought everything through , and already formulated a plan . He even seemed to have an in-depth understanding of the mechanics of the tower itself , which allowed him to infer hidden clues .

Don’t look at me like that , - Ogras said with a roll of his eyes . - Remember , I was a lot weaker last time I was here . I wasn’t even level 60 , so I focused on gathering intelligence rather than fighting . The guy I hired was a bit of a meathead , so I had to help out where I could . -

What? - Galau blurted out . - Why would you head here so early? -

I was bored , - Ogras shrugged , clearly not interested in divulging his precarious situation back in his old clan .

Zac kept asking questions as they walked over toward the town , and Ogras simply told him to play the part . It made things easier if you inserted you into the setting in a believable way . In this case they would say they were warriors who had come to look into the newly emerging threat . That way the villagers might be more inclined to share information with them .

He also underlined that they shouldn't attack random people . It could quickly make things get out of hand . For example , it might garner the ire of some nearby nobleman of the Bravorian Kingdom who would rush to the village for revenge , and such an individual wasn't necessarily within the expected strength of the floor they were on . Many climbs had ended early due to cultivators taking too large liberties while inside , where they took the opportunity to act despicable while out of prying eyes .

After all , no one would ever know what happened during a climb unless they retold the story themselves .

But why would the System design such an elaborate place like this? - Zac asked . - Why not just present a series of increasingly strong opponents for us to fight? This place must cost an insane amount of energy to keep running . -

Have you heard about the origins of the System? - Galau asked .

Of course , the Limitless Empire created it to nurture warriors for their war , - Zac said .

Exactly . The System has changed a lot since that ancient era , but its main prerogative remains . It needs to create powerful warriors . You shouldn’t see this place simply as a trial to get a good title , but as a training ground to hone your skills , - Galau explained . - Everyone who comes to the Tower is an elite the System has deemed worth nurturing , and this whole place is a massive incubator . -

And I am not talking about your Skills or your Dao . This place teaches you to think , - the youth added . - That’s what I believe , anyway . -

What do you mean? - Zac asked with confusion .

You can look at it this way . Most people who come here are from established factions . They might have good insights and high attributes , but they have lived generally sheltered lives under the protection of their elders . I have no doubt that you as a progenitor have seen far more battle than almost any warrior you encountered in the Base Town , - Galau said .

Zac nodded , feeling it made sense . There was no reason for a clan to throw their youths to the wolves to grow like he did . It might create one or two powerhouses , but most would end up dead . Almost no one was willing to rear their young generations like that .

But that also meant that they turned out like Average , people having the technique but not the grit to make it through a harsh battle .

It seems you understand . The Tower throws you into a large number of unfamiliar situations , allowing you to gain not just experience in fighting , but also how to solve various types of situations you might encounter in the future . The things you learn today might save your life in a Mystic Realm in the future , - Galau finished .

Some excitement started to well up in Zac’s heart as he listened to Galau’s explanations , and he couldn’t help but look forward to the trials now .

Until now there had only been a fight for survival , where he was thrown into one perilous situation after another . Now he could relax and enjoy some exploration and adventure , all while honing his skills .

It was nice to finally get a breather .

Chapter 401 - Taboo Origins

Kenzie exhaled with a tired sigh as she waited for the drones to return to her side . Jeeves was doing all of the calculations when she commanded the flying machines to strike her targets , but the AI ran on her spirit energy to function . Destroying one infusion pillar felt even more draining than using all her Daos to battle for half an hour , even though she didn’t even leave the flying treasure .

Ilvere silently gazed upon the destruction , not even bothering to comment as he directed the treasure toward their next target . He had assisted her for her campaign the past two days , taking care of all minor details so that she would only have to worry about the pillars themselves . No one else had accompanied the two out of security concerns .

Kenzie had felt a bit stupid after realizing that bringing the demon general might have opened a can of worms , but the general solved the issue by immediately creating a contract of silence after she destroyed the first pillar . It stipulated that he would keep silent on all matters regarding MacKenzie Atwood , and there was no time limitation . As for remuneration , it was only 1 Nexus Crystal a year .

Ilvere was a trusted general under her brother and Ogras , and she had initially felt it was unnecessary to go to such lengths regarding such a small issue . But the demon had said it was as much for himself as for her as he didn't want his head to leave his shoulders when Lord Atwood returned in two days .

She initially wanted to refute him , but she honestly wasn’t sure what the truth was any longer . Her brother had changed during the past months , and she wasn’t just talking about the transformation that everyone was forced to undergo to survive in this new environment . He had become harsher , more paranoid . It honestly wasn’t impossible that he’d kill Ilvere just to make sure nothing would leak out about their heritage .

Of course , the demon general only knew a part of the truth . She had explained the drones by saying that Zac had found the Technocrat Incursion while in the Underworld , and he had decided to take their technology for himself to protect Earth . It was taboo technology , but things were getting desperate and her brother had made the decision to bear any repercussions by the System for using them .

Luckily for her Earth was somewhat technologically advanced before the integration , and it was impossible for a demon like Ilvere to properly understand the vast gap between the tablets and cars of old Earth and the futuristic drones crammed full of shocking technology . He thought that Zac had put some of their engineers on analyzing the drones before they quickly were deployed into battle , which was of course ludicrous . It would probably take years to reverse-engineer this type of technology , if they ever managed to do it .

As for repercussions , Jeeves assured her there would be none . It was something that her AI was still vague about , but it had on multiple occasions assured her that he would not draw any ire from the System for its existence or actions . She wasn't sure what to believe about that claim though . Her AI was a great teacher , but how could it control what the System would do?

Since Ilvere was in charge of driving the flying treasure toward the next pillar she closed her eyes and focused on one of her training regimens . She formed four thin strands of Dao Energy in her mind and started to arduously weave them together into an ugly braid . It required extreme control of her Dao Energy and it didn't have a lot of applications , but it did help her in various ways .

Braiding her Daos allowed her to take the first step toward fusing them in the future while also helping her to more naturally use multiple Daos while battling . She could only infuse two of her elements into an attack at the moment , but Jeeves assured her a full infusion of all four was possible .

Can’t you help Zac a bit and create a training program for him as well?’ Kenzie entreated for the umpteenth time . - You know he’s struggling with this type of stuff . ’

No . I cannot get involved with him the synthetic voice answered as usual . I cannot

But why?’ Kenzie lambasted in her mind , her usual caution thrown to the wind due to stress and exhaustion . - You know he is the best shot for us all surviving . If he fails against the undead we’ll all die . Unless you tell me I won’t feed you any longer!’

Pain . Fear . Loss]

Kenzie’s vision suddenly changed to an enormous chamber . Her eyes were instinctively drawn to a large insignia depicting nine horizontal lines of increasingly short length forming a downward-pointing triangle . One vertical line cut straight through the nine lines , splitting the triangle in two , and the ends of the line were sticking out a bit on each side .

There was not much else to see in the chamber . The walls and floor were a pristine white , and the lack of details made it impossible to guess whether they were ten meters or hundreds of meters away .

The only other exception to the endless white was the machine .

The machine was beyond anything she had seen before , no matter if she talked size or complexity . It was built in concentric circles where it formed an upside-down pyramid with its tip pointing toward her vantage point .

Even the small tip that stopped fifty meters or so above her head was over a hundred meters wide , which made it almost incomprehensible just how large the machine was at the far thicker base at the top . The chamber itself must be tens , perhaps hundreds of kilometers in diameter judging by the machine . The construction dwarfed anything she had ever encountered .

Even the Mystic Realm she had spent a lot of time inside recently shouldn’t be as big as this single room judging by the size of the apparatus .

The tip of the machine was neither flat nor sharp . It rather ended in thousands of spikes aligned toward her . Each one thrummed with enough power to tear a hole in the fabric of space , and her vision swam from focusing on any single one of them .

Each of the spikes felt like a doomsday device , each one of them containing their own unique way to destroy the world . Four of them actually resonated with Kenzie’s soul , making her realize the spikes contained the Daos of Tinder , Loam , Waves , and Gust . But if her Dao Seeds were snippets of a fragment of a grand truth , then these spikes contained the real deal .

Was Jeeves trying to appease her by giving her a hint into her Daos?

A flashing light interrupted Kenzie’s inspection and the scene changed to one of utter destruction . The machine was mostly gone , and fragments from the construction scorched almost beyond recognition floated in an empty space illuminated in blue .

Two massive vaulted domes with enormous cracks floated in the distance , each surrounded by a nebula of technological debris . She tried to look closer , but she soon lost sight of the domes as her vision slowly turned away . She realized she was in space as well , slowly rotating from her own momentum .

But the odd sights didn’t end , and something even more shocking waited for her as she spun 180 degrees . Endless oceans of lightning covered the darkness of space , creating a spectacle of an impossible scale .

The lightning was too scary and Kenzie felt it contained the power to destroy everything in the world . And its scope was massive . She spotted a whole planet being swallowed inside the lightning like a small pebble in a pond , which meant the lightning at least covered an area as large as a whole solar system .

Kenzie couldn’t make sense of what happened , and then the scene was over .

What was that?!’ Kenzie asked with shock , barely coherent enough to not speak out aloud .

The magnitude of what she had witnessed was far beyond anything she had encountered so far . It made her remember the Dao Visions that her brother had recounted for her . Such a thing like the machine or the sea of lightning wasn't something someone from their little planet should come into contact with .

The power in that lightning was terrifying . She had no doubt that if just one wisp of lightning from that ocean grazed Earth only a scorched husk would remain . There was something primordial about it , like it contained the wrath of the universe itself .

Your origin? Kenzie ventured when Jeeves didn't directly answer .

Probably

But what does that have to do with my brother or why you won’t help him?

I don’t know

After that exchange the AI turned taciturn and refused to answer any further questions . But Kenzie was still happy about the result . She had glimpsed what was probably the origin of Jeeves , which was also a clue to finding mom .

That large insignia was the first clue , and she made sure to memorize it properly . The second clue was that terrifying lake of lightning . Was that the System itself descending on the Technocrats? She knew the two forces were at odds , but she hadn’t heard of the System actively going against them . It seemed to usually work circuitously by giving quests or restricting the Technocrats in various ways .

Kenzie opened her eyes and resumed looking at the passing landscape since Jeeves wasn’t in the mood to talk any longer . These past two days they had been in constant motion , closing one pillar after another with the help of the drone swarms .

However , the next target was likely their last one . The drones were all spent , and they would require at least a week to convert Cosmic Energy to whatever energy they used to fly about . It was an extremely convenient technology to never require any upkeep , but she wished they just had some batteries they could swap out at this juncture .

It took them two more hours before they reached the pillar by flying at maximum speed . The pillar was the same as all others , an azure beacon of energy left alone in a desolate area . No zombies or other guards were stationed around it , giving them free rein to do what they wanted . It was a bit odd , but it felt like the undead truly didn’t care if some pillars were destroyed .

It was due to the redundancies according to Jeeves . Since the undead managed to activate the array a pathway had formed in the sky . That pathway was self-sustaining and slowly filled with miasma by the beacons , and destroying a pillar would only hamper the rate the pathway was filled . It wouldn’t stop the array itself . You'd need to destroy the Array Core to do that , and that thing was no doubt in the heart of the Dead Zone .

How such a thing was made was beyond Kenzie even after her intense study of arrays . It was likely a higher-tiered Array compared to the basic ones she had learned thus far . An array surviving even after its flags getting destroyed was no doubt the result of some high-grade technique that might have been unknown to the small Sect where Zac got the information crystals .

Kenzie ordered the swarm of drones to emerge once more and form a circle around the beacon . A high-intensity blast followed , and the next moment the pillar was exchanged with a smoldering crater . Kenzie nodded in satisfaction and recalled her spent drones , but a dozen of them were suddenly destroyed as a female voice drifted across the area .

So your ilk is still skulking around on this planet after all . Makes sense you wouldn’t want to give up that base . But you made a mistake when deciding to meddle with the Empire’s affairs . You should know that the conquest won’t be stopped for any reason . -

The next moment terrifying energies were released from the ground as another miasmic beacon shot into the sky . In the middle of it a blurry figure floated in the air , teeming with power .

She’s too strong , - Ilvere said with a frown as he infused the flying disk with a lot of Cosmic Energy . - I’ll try to block her attacks as we flee . Let the young master and Lord Atwood deal with her when they return . -

Left! - Kenzie suddenly screamed , prompted by Jeeves who had awoken again .

But it was too late .

Ilvere unhesitantly followed her advice , but his reaction wasn’t quick enough . A lance formed of what looked like crude oil slammed straight into the disk from below , cracking the whole flying treasure in two . Horror filled Kenzie's heart as they were over a hundred meters into the air .

Down you go , - the undead woman's laugh echoed across the area .

Help’ Kenzie shrieked in her mind , knowing that she was out of her league .

Initiating Battle Protocol , full utilization . Time remaining : 1 minute 36 seconds

Chapter 402 - Whittlecreek

The trio soon enough reached the main gate of the ramshackle wall surrounding the village . It looked like the fortifications were erected hundreds of years ago , but the townspeople had let it deteriorate . The only sign of recent maintenance was a hole in the wall that had been filled with rocks and logs in a clumsy effort to close the gap .

The gate was open , but an old guard gave them a glare as he blocked the path into the town . Zac didn’t sense any threat from him , and he could tell that the guard was around level 40 at best . There was also no aura or pressure emanating from him , telling Zac that the old man was wholly unimpressive and likely without even a Dao seed . He was most probably a mortal who had gotten to this point by fighting the local animals and splurging on the occasional Nexus Crystal , and the chances of reaching E-Grade was next to zero .

Who are you lot? - he gruffly asked as he looked back and forth at the trio with a clear hint of suspicion . - What do you want with Whittlecreek? -

We’re adventurers who heard of the plight of your fair town , - Ogras said as he righteously slapped his chest . - We have come to investigate the appearance of those dastardly Goblins . -

Oh , did the guild send you? - the guard said , his eyes immediately brightening in anticipation .

The Guild? Ah , yes the Guild did send us , - Ogras nodded after a brief lapse . - I am sure you've been instructed to co-operate properly? -

Great! I will inform the Mayor! My name is Keldor , just find me if you need help with anything! I wish you the best of luck , - he said as he hurried away toward a large manor at the other side of the town .

Zac gave Ogras an amused glance , not used to his heroic demeanor from before .

What? Might as well have some fun with it , - Ogras shrugged as they passed through the gate . - Once again , remember the rule . Do not kill innocents inside the Tower . There have been many reports of extremely powerful old cultivators jumping out of nowhere when the normal citizens get killed rather than the targets of the trial . -

I heard you the first time . Besides , do I strike you like a person that would run around killing people willy-nilly? - Zac snorted .

Well , not really , - Ogras conceded before he threw Zac a scathing glance . - But you also didn’t strike me as the type of person who would obliterate the shop of one of the most influential forces in the star sector , so what do I know? -

Zac was about to refute the demon but he realizes he didn’t have a lot of leg to stand on . Ogras still wasn’t aware of the whole story regarding the Splinter , so even he must have felt that the whole thing looked like the actions of a madman .

Well , I am all better now . I won’t do something like that again , - Zac sighed .

I’m sure , - the demon snorted before he got serious again . - So what do you want to do? Find the Goblins or investigate the source? -

Zac was stumped for a second before he looked around the picturesque town for a bit . It was easy to forget that he was actually undergoing a trial , and that he was inside a mysterious tower in some hidden pocket dimension of outer space .

He hadn’t really considered his tactic before coming . He had just planned on smashing through everything as quickly as possible before going back to Earth . But after having walked past the beautiful fields and having arrived at this place he felt the same sense of calm as when he sat in the courtyard gazing up at the stars the other day .

Those moments of tranquility were hard to come by in his current reality . The moment he stepped out of the Tower he would have to enter a series of life-and-death battles to take out the last enemies on Earth . But he was now given a hundred days to slow down and adjust his state of mind for a bit .

He knew he couldn’t treat the Tower as a vacation , as the higher floors took time to complete , but he also didn’t need to rush to the peak . He would be weakened for a while longer due to his wound , so he was in no hurry to rush to the harsher floors .

Besides , he felt that what Galau said about learning to think made a lot of sense . He had been fighting tooth and nail for a year since the integration , but there were still huge holes in his knowledge . He knew a bit about arrays and how to swing his axe , but nothing else . Completing the trials the intended way was a chance for him to actually widen his skillset .

Are there any benefits to completing levels quickly? - Zac asked .

Not really , except that it gives more time for the difficult trials further up , - Galau said with a shake of his head .

I thought so , - Zac nodded . - Let’s try to complete the quests the normal way for now . We can start pushing harder if we notice we’re running out of time . -

Galau didn’t have any objections , not that he had much of a choice . He could go ahead and kill the Goblin Leader if he wanted to , but if he exited the first level without Zac and Ogras , then they would be separated for the rest of the climb . They would have to physically touch every time they stepped into a portal or otherwise their cooperation would end .

Let’s split up , - Ogras said as he started to saunter toward what was obviously a tavern . - Just ask around for any clues you can find . -

I will assist… in the tavern , - Galau said with a cough .

Zac wryly shook his head in response before he started walking in the other direction . He didn’t mind that the two didn’t care about the mission as he wanted to get a feel for how the trials worked for himself anyway . He tried to put himself in the shoes of an actual adventurer who truly had arrived due to the Goblin threat .

Provided that they weren’t able to eradicate the whole Goblin tribe with a swing or two with their axe , how would an adventurer go about solving this matter? Zac started to walk up to one townsperson after another , trying to find clues to the situation .

The whole town was full of farmers , and Zac was a bit confused as to why they all stayed in the town rather than tending their fields . But he soon understood that it was due to the goblins who would stream out of the forest and kill solitary farmers when the opportunity presented itself .

They only went out in large groups now to tend the fields once every week , and they had to let the crops fend for themselves most of the time now . A lot of people worriedly talked about weeds and parasites ruining their crop , or that they wouldn’t be able to pay this years’ tax to the local lord .

Zac was shocked by the reality of it all , and he could understand that there was no consensus on whether these people were real or not . He even tested mentioning the Tower of Eternity and the System , but they truly simply ignored those things like he said nothing at all .

Ogras was proven right as it was no secret where the Goblin Tribe stayed . They had taken up in an abandoned mine some ways’ into the forest . The villagers had tried to root them out with the help of their strongest warrior , the Mayor . The campaign ended in an embarrassing defeat , resulting in the mayor still being on bed rest to recuperate .

But no matter who he asked he couldn’t find a hint of why the goblins suddenly had arrived . The villagers all assumed that it was simply bad luck , or that the goblins perhaps had been pushed out of their old domain by a rival tribe . They didn't look too deeply into the matter , and most of them seemed to take it as a general inconvenience that would soon enough be sorted by the Lord and the Guild .

Zac sighed in exasperation after having walked around or thirty minutes questioning the townspeople . The base of the Fallen Goblins was easy enough to find , but he was not one step closer to completing the actual mission . Was he unsuited for this type of work , or was he simply asking the wrong questions?

A sudden movement in the periphery of his vision suddenly caught his attention though , and he flashed over to see what was going on . He had noticed this type of movement multiple times already , but he had ignored it since his danger sense didn't warn him at all .

Sharp pain in his side immediately made him regret using Loamwalker] to move around , and he grimaced as it felt like getting stabbed . His scrunched-up face also had the additional effect of scaring the daylights out of two small children who had been spying on him from behind a large bale of hay .

The young boy who looked no older than five immediately jumped into the bale in an effort to escape , while the even younger girl stood rooted in place like a deer in headlights .

I'm not someone dangerous , I am from the guild , - Zac said as he wiped the sweat from his forehead . - I'm here to help your parents . -

He felt a bit weird lying to children about who he was , but at least it seemed to have the desired effect as the girl visibly calmed down .

Mister , are you here to beat up the goblins? - the girl curiously said as she looked up at Zac with big eyes .

I am , - Zac smiled as he tried to remember how to talk to children . - But I am also trying to figure out why they came here in the first place . I don’t want any more of them coming here after I’ve left . -

It’s the ghosts! - the girl said with certainty in her eyes . - The grownups don’t believe me , but I saw it! -

Jinny , shh! - the subdued voice of a young boy emerged from within the hay . - We’ll get in trouble again . -

What ghosts? - Zac asked with piqued interest .

He didn’t know what connection some ghosts had with goblins , but this was the first hint of something out of the ordinary since he arrived here .

Me and Bulb were visiting the tower , and we saw a ghost! Then the goblins came not long after , - the girl exclaimed .

Jinny… - an entreating voice emerged again as a snot-nosed face popped out of the haystack .

We are not allowed to go into the forest , but we snuck out when the grown-ups were busy , - Jinny said with a low voice . - We saw the old man ghost in the tower! He looked like a bad man . -

Zac started to understand what was going on after a round of questioning . These two kids had gone exploring the forest while their parents were out tending the fields roughly two weeks before the goblins first appeared . They had happened upon a large tower , and they saw what they believed was a ghost walking around its base .

The sight had scared the wits out of the children , and they had immediately run back to town to inform the villagers . Eventually the mayor and few of the townspeople went over to scour the area , but they came up with nothing . The parents thought they were lying , and simply punished the two for going into the dangerous forest alone .

Thank you for the information , - Zac smiled . - I will make sure the ghost doesn’t cause any trouble . -

The kids enthusiastically nodded before they skittered away , and Zac walked over to one of the villagers to ask about the tower .

It turned out that the tower was once a part of the defensive line of the Bravorian Kingdom , but the country had expanded its borders 300 years ago . The war transformed Whittlecreek from a border town to a safe village in the heartlands . The guard tower was abandoned soon enough , and it had stood in the mountains untouched for centuries without causing any trouble .

Zac couldn’t be sure , but it certainly sounded like the clue for a simple mystery fitting to the first level of the Tower of Eternity . Armed with this knowledge he turned to the saloon , where he found Ogras chatting up a cute farmer's daughter working double as a waitress . Galau wasn't as talkative , and he rather seemed determined to drink himself into oblivion .

A full barrel of some locally brewed liquor was placed next to him , and Zac saw that it was half-emptied already .

How does buying things work here? - Zac asked curiously as he sat down opposite them with a groan .

Nexus Coins , - Ogras said with a grin . - But you will usually not be able to bring anything outside . -

Usually? - Zac asked with piqued interest , almost forgetting why he came here .

It’s a gamble , - Galau said with slurred speech . - It’s a small chance anything you find is real . -

Chapter 403 - Questing

Zac slowly nodded . It was messing with his head a bit not knowing whether everything around him was real or not . From what he had heard so far it was both and neither . He also briefly wondered if his high Luck stat would skew the ratio of real to fake items in his favor . Perhaps he would walk out of here an extremely rich man .

Or perhaps the System would decide Zac hadn’t suffered enough turned all his items illusory .

Things here also have their own pricing . Sometimes a precious item might only cost a tenth of what it cost outside . You can take a gamble and buy it , and you might make a fortune when you exit , - Ogras added .

Is there any way to discern what’s real and what’s fake? - Zac asked with interest .

Nope , not that I know of at least , - Ogras said with a shrug . - Perhaps some factions know of a method , but why would they share such a thing with the masses? Oh , the rewards from completing a floor are always real as well . -

Eat it , - Galau burped from the side , drawing a confused look from Zac .

If you find something useful it’s best to use it immediately if you can . Everything is real while you’re still inside the Tower . The Ruthless Heavens will not reach into your belly to pull the item out , - the demon said .

Zac nodded in understanding as he ordered a huge dinner . He wasn’t in a rush to head to the tower since Ogras was happy idling about Galau seemed intent on finding the bottom of the barrel . There was still some time remaining on his weakened state brought on by Hatchetman’s Rage] anyhow , and the nasty wound in his side still pained him .

I think I found the clue , by the way , - Zac said as he gorged himself on a huge flank steak .

Oh? - Ogras said , clearly disinterested .

Zac sighed at the lackluster response , but he still carried on and explained the situation with the tower .

Sounds like that’s it , - Ogras nodded after hearing the description . - We can head there after finishing things on this end . -

That was fine with Zac as having walked around the town had caused his wounds to flare up again . Taking it easy while he recuperated was just what he needed . The three only set out two hours later , at which point Ogras was forced to carry Galau who had drank himself into oblivion .

As expected of the first level they didn’t encounter any trouble finding their target . It was the only building on the desolate mountain , and it rose almost a hundred meters into the air . Along with the guidance of Zac’s Automatic Map they found the place in no time .

The demon threw the still-sleeping Galau on the ground and showered him with water from one of his canteens , making him wake up with a sputter . The scene made the demon snicker before he started to scout the area .

There’s no one here , - Ogras said as he looked around . - That wizard guy you mentioned is probably long gone . -

Zac nodded and the three walked inside the dilapidated tower . Nothing seemed to be out of place . In fact , the place was pretty much picked clean , and the only residents seemed to have been a bear and a bunch of birds judging by the droppings everywhere .

The base floor contained a couple of side-rooms holding nothing , and the only path led upward . Zac immediately headed for the stairs , but he only got a few meters before he was stopped .

Wait , - Galau spoke up and pointed at a dark corner . - There’s an array hiding a set of stairs leading downward . -

How do you know? - Zac asked curiously .

He liked to believe that he had some attainments in spotting arrays after his time trapped during the hunt , but he hadn’t noticed anything out of the ordinary at all . That a depressed and still half-drunk merchant managed to find something he missed was a bit humbling .

I have a pretty decent inspection skill , - Galau conceded . - I mainly got it to help me discern whether items I wanted to buy were fake , but it sometimes comes handy in other situations . -

Zac nodded in understanding and the three walked down , their descent spearheaded by Ogras . The demon would have to do most of the heavy lifting while Zac was on the mend , but it shouldn’t matter on the beginner floors .

The area at the foot of the stairs was in a lot better state than the levels upstairs that were pretty much reclaimed by nature at this point . The dust was swept away , and it looked like someone had lived here recently . There were both bedding and a table with some scribbled notes , but Zac couldn’t read it .

No one was there though , meaning the wizard or whoever the children had seen had likely left some time ago . The three only needed to look around for a minute before Ogras found a hidden passage , and they proceeded even further down to find a hidden chamber that was directly cut into the mountain foundation .

There was only one item in the room , a golden crown lying on a pedestal . The crown seemed to be a bit small for a human’s head , but what was most concerning about it was that a black mist that formed hazy fractals slowly swiveled around it . It might be a spirit tool , or the fractals might be a defensive array inscribed into the pedestal .

It seems to be a cursed object , - Galau said with a frown as he looked at the crown . - We might be abl- . -

However , he didn’t get any further as a cannonball slammed into the crown with enough force to almost tear a crack in space . It was Zac who scouted out the thing in his customary manner . A loud snap could be heard before a distant wail entered their ears .

A sinister aura spread across the room , but it was quickly crushed when Zac unleashed his Dao Field from his Seed of Trees . The sinister atmosphere only lasted for a second before the basement returned to its original state .

The metal ball had completely crushed the treasure and the pedestal it lay on . The fractals were forcibly broken as well . Galau looked at the scene of destruction mutely , before he slowly turned to Zac with an incredulous expression . The demon sighed from the side , but he didn’t comment .

I… I was about to say that we might be able to cleanse the item , allowing us to take it with us . If it turns out it’s a real treasure we might have been able to make some money… - Galau said with a wry smile .