Chapter 31 - Spending a Day with Venelana (2)
"How many of them are here? And why they look like spiders?"
Asked Venelana as she looked over my shoulder at working spider automatons.
"Around 80,000. They are extremely fast at replicating and creating new ones, so theoretically as long as there are materials, they could produce god knows how many of them daily. And they look like spiders due to is versatility."
I gave out my explanation.
"Versatility?"
"Yes, you see they generally insect-type golems are more suited for more types of actions, such as attacking, support, working, and many others. Due to their shape, they can take the role of fighter, defender, supportive unit or construction or worked unit."
I continued my explanation.
"Hmm... do you want some tea and dessert, Venelana? I have exclusive tea shipped from the Forbidden Garden of Celestial Court."
I said as Venelana nodded her head. I loved tea, as much as coffee, unfortunately, for now, in this time, coffee was not available to me, but tea was. I have bought Moonlight Heavenly Tea Leaves, one gram of them cost me around 20,000 Soul Coins. For info, that amount of money was enough to buy armor and weapon sets of the dwarven craft of very good quality.
Expensive tea was one of my very few indulgents in this life. I was rich so I often bought extremely expensive tea for myself. Hindu, Celestial Court, and Takagamara produced such, and I was one of the biggest buyers. Of course, such ones were sold only to rich and powerful, as nobody had so much money to buy 1 gram of tea from 20,000 Soul Coins.
Of course, this tea was not ordinary, but also had good effects on the soul, and strengthened the soul a little.
We went to my private garden, which was a relatively small place for me, to just rest. It was filled with plants and trees brought there from Takagahamara or Three Realms, that I have brought, giving visage of the Chinese or Japanese architecture.
We sat down, there weren't any chairs, we were sitting on the ground, on the pillows and before us was a small tea table.
"Did Lord Zekram tell you about the results of our discussion?"
I asked as I waited for the tea to be brewed. Tea brewing was a very complicated process, that I rather enjoyed doing.
"Yes, he did. I must admit, I didn't think that my future husband is so ambitious person."
Replied Venelana with a grin.
"So, what... you are also well aware the state our species is, and our grim dark future."
I remarked. My vision for a new form of government was only out of personal ambition, but also a need. The current state of the Devils was terrible.
Among the Three Factions, only one was truly united, and that was Heaven. Fallen Angels, were divided between many Cadre-Class Fallen Angels, creating diversity, but alas, as there were not many Cadres, as each one was as strong as Satan-Class Devil, their diversification was less than devils.
We had rulers, the Four Great Satans, but their ruling was just a name. Practically our government was some kind of confederation. There existed some united government, which were Four Great Satans, but their commanding power over the rest of the noble houses wasn't especially strong. Each of the Pillars, Extra Demons, or other Nobles, had a high degree of autonomy, they were managing their territories as they seem fit, so they weren't managing even a shit.
"In terms of government, we are even worse than Fallen. Look at it, our Nobility responsible for managing their territories and training up armies, what is ding? Playing, indulging in sexual or other pleasure activities, wasting time and power. Only a very few of them are really doing something, the rest of it is just a disgrace to their names."
I said with disgust in my voice. Devil Nobles were responsible for managing their territories solely by themselves, and almost none paid heightened attention to it. When I succeeded, it will be the first thing I will change.
"And if you rule, how will it change?"
"Simple. I will implement Territorial Management Level, that other Pantheons are using to grade their vassals. Celestial Court, Asgard, and Takagahamara are using it for thousands of years. The base premise lies here. Every territory will be graded based on their state in economics, the number of powerhouses, magical and technology level, and several others, and we will then get the Average Territory Management Coefficient. If some territory falls below the TMC, then the Lord in charge would be severely punished. If he increases the TMC level in contrast to the previous one, then there would be a reward. Asgard is using this method to keep the development of its Nine Worlds and Jarldoms, Celestial Court on the other hand development of Three Realms, while Takagahamara on its Vassals."
Territory Management Coefficient was a very effective way, to practically control and speed up the development of the territory as a whole. I heard that punishments in Three Realms are especially severe, due to the high population of various species in Three Realms, the most common one is the execution of the Lord. It is the most populous faction, so there isn't a problem with finding new ones to take a place of old ones.
"Hmm... that could work. Still, the premise is that you have overwhelming power and suppress all opposition. Ideally, you can combine it with benefits that your rule will bring."
Said Venelana after some thought.
"Indeed, but I have enough time to grow. Within hundred years, there won't be anyone in the Underworld to oppose me in terms of strength."
I said. Maybe even sooner, but I don't want to progress too quickly, as that could damage my foundation. I have now an optimal path, and once I will uncock the Clan Trait Devour, I could advance by leaps and bounds. My advancement won't be hindered and the only thing, that would matter would be to advance my masteries.
Chapter 32 - Spending a Day with Venelana (3)
Having a Class was important as was attaining higher-ranked masteries. I don't want to end up like Ophis, having Class but her usage of power was almost nonexistent. That was why it was important to train and continue mastering your power.
"Now on the other list. I believe, Lord Zekram has informed you that I will be commencing expedition to the Dimensional Gap, right?"
I asked slowly, as I looked at Venelana who was quietly sipping her tea.
"Yes, he told. After I reach Ultimate-Class, the same could be said about you."
Venelana nodded her head.
"Have that old man told you more precise information about that plane? He told me that it was some kind of newly birthed on in the Dimensional Gap. Still, I am a bit reluctant to believe him."
I grumbled a bit.
"On this he was truthful. Civilization there is some kind of tribal one. It is inhabited by some race of beastmen and even some humans. What is interesting, they only follow the path of strengthening their bodies, grandpa sends a few scounts there. Magic users are really scarce, only some shamans in bigger tribes above 5,000."
Explained Venelana.
"If you sent some scounts there, how strong is the civilization there?"
I asked the most important question here.
"Relatively weak, we have discovered only several Ultimate-Class chieftains and one Ultimate-Class shaman, though, in terms of combat prowess, they should far weaker than even initial Ultimate-Class in Draconic Deus."
Said Venelana. When I heard I was satisfied. Even though in terms of Class there might be Ultimate-Class, but energy reserves or body strength wasn't all. If you don't have advanced magic knowledge, weapon mastery, or something similar, you can't properly utilize your own strength.
So if we are talking about some primitive tribal civilization, all of their combatants would be weaker compared to those of the same level in more advanced planes.
"That is good. When both of us are Ultimate-Class we could invade that world. I will be taking three of my Generals, all of them are Ultimate-Class. Magicians that Lord Zekrma would be sending, at least one of them should be Ultimate-Class, right?"
I asked.
"Yes. Of Dantalion line, very experienced in Norse, Olympian, White, and Black Magic. Especially in Dimensional Spells. That would be together six Ultimate-Classes."
Six Ultimate-Class people were enough for primitive tribal civilization. All of Ultimate-Class were elite combatants, so theoretically, unless we encounter unexpected circumstances everything should go all right. And then my Mechanical Legion would expand exponentially.
"Good. Unfortunately, I don't have any magician on the Ultimate-Class."
Unfortunately, not many devils were masters in magic. Only a few had Ultimate-Class magicians that were well versed in magic.
From what I have observed, a common way of fighting among ordinary devils without a Clan Trait or any other special ability was just throwing some weak spells created with Devil Magic around, while if you are out of energy reserves, you go for close combat.
It was far worse compared to Angels and Fallen Angels, they at least have basic knowledge over usage of their racial magic. Still, among devils it was understandable, as for common devils, it was very hard to learn advanced usage of Devil Magic, without being subjected directly to someone of Nobility. Devil Nobles hoarded and guarded the knowledge, not talking about an advanced magic system that was superior to Devil Magic, they won't reveal anything as they feared that common devils might one day surpass them. Another foolishness that needs to be eradicated completely.
"How do you like tea, Venelana?"
I asked while sipping my tea. Tea harvested from Three Realms or dimensional world belonging to the Hindu Pantheon was the best one.
"It is delicious. Grandpa often drinks tea harvested from Celestial Court but he is such cheap stake and never shares."
Pouted Venelana sadly.
"You are aware that one gram is sold for more than 20,000 Soul Coins? To make such a cup of tea, usually 2 or 3 grams are used, so between 40,000 to 60,000 Soul Coins are used. It's extra expensive, mainly due to its calming effect and nourishing effect on the soul. Meaning you would have a better affinity for magic or any energy-based arts."
I explained as Venelana's expression turned to shock. A cup of tea for 60,000 Soul Coins was such an extravagant thing, that people who could afford it in Underworld could be counted on one hand. Of course, most Noble Houses are not good at making money.
The pay of an ordinary Middle-Class soldier was somewhere between 1,000 to 1,500 Soul Coins monthly. So one cup of tea was 60x times that. Of course, soldiers were one best-paid occupations in the Underworld.
"No wonder it is so expensive."
Remarked Venelana as she enjoyed the tea.
"Yes, but effects are good and the taste of the tea is best. Of course, tea from Takagahamara is also top-notch. Next time, I can brew that one, or perhaps one from Hindu. I have a rather wide tea leaves collection."
I said casually while enjoying my tea on this peaceful day.
We spent the rest of the afternoon chatting about mischievous and mostly rather unimportant things. I found out, almost nothing changed about my communication skills, as the only things I was able to converse fluently were politics, magic, and research.
Fortunately, Venelana noticed my social "skills" and she took the lead in the conversation, to avoid that awkward since that often happens on dates, probably. I never had one in my life, so I can't really talk from experience.
As the sun was setting, Venelana was soon going home, and as a proper gentleman, I decided to send her out.
As we were nearing the entrance to the Fuerig Castle, Venelana turned to me and stared at me for several seconds, before opening her mouth to say something.
"I enjoyed today very much, hopefully, we can repeat it soon."
Said Venelana as she leaned over and kissed my cheat, before teleporting away, leaving me frozen like a salt pillar for the next ten minutes.
Chapter 33 - Magic and Origin of Architect
[Wake up, you are standing here for the whole five minutes.]
Said Architect in my head, as I was still surprised by her show of affection. It was the first time in my life, so I didn't know how to properly act.
"Shut up, you metal scrap. Come, we need to conduct more experiments. Tier Magic System needs to be finalized."
I said. Now that I have a good understanding of the Abyssal Runes, I could start the implementation process for my Magic System. Previously, I used the Aesir Runes as a base, which were not of the same origin, so their compatibility wasn't that high.
[With current knowledge available, there is a high possibility to achieve 100% stability for Zero-Tier spells, Combat-Tier spells, and Tactical-Tier spells.]
Stated Architect in my head.
"And when I reach Ultimate-Class I can start experimenting with Strategic-Tier spells, meant for Master Magicians with Ultimate-Class energy reserves. With that, we would have covered the entire devil race, as there are practically no devils that specialize in magic, that are above Ultimate-Class."
Strategic-Tier spells were spells that required mastery over the magic system to cast and were meant for magicians of Ultimate-Class. The destructiveness of these spells was everything from mountains to smaller islands. Still, that was within Architects calculations.
The destructiveness of Zero-Tier spells was very low as they were used only in one on one combat. Combat-Tier was higher, and spells could destroy buildings. Tactical-Tier could destroy towns to smaller cities. It corresponded to energy reserves of Low-Class, Middle-Class, and High-Class.
My aim was the creation of Strategic-Class magic for several reasons. For first, I can only create spells of a specific tier only when I have corresponding energy reserves. Secondly, among devils, there were only a very few of those, who had magic as their main form of combat, and all of them were only at the Ultimate-Class.
I went to the underground space, which also served as a testing ground for my experiments.
"Architect, start analysis process on the spell. We are starting with Zero-Tier Fireball."
I said as I started conjuring the Fireball spell with the usage of the Tier Magic System. Within several seconds, the Fireball spell was finished. I knew it was stable, I could feel it instinctively from my experiences as a magician.
"Results."
[Stability is 100%. Compatibility between Abyssal Runes and Devil Magic is perfect.]
Stated Architect his analysis. I was inwardly satisfied hearing this result.
"Ok, then continue, I will start casting other spells of Zero-Tier."
First, one spell I cast was Magic Arrow, which was one of the easiest spells across many magic systems. Then it was Thunder Bolt spell or Electrosphere spell. All of them had the stability of the 100%, meaning the first Tier was my magic system was completed.
"Excellent, now onto the Combat-Tier."
I said with glee in my eyes. With Architect's help, the completion of my new magic system was just a matter of time. I was glad that upon transmigration I had my STC with me.
The Architect wasn't an ordinary A.I. chip. He was prototype artificial intelligence, that would control multiple STC to boost up the production capabilities of the Solar Federation tens of times, allowing our power to at least contends against Aeldari.
STC stands for Standart Template Construct, a pinnacle of humanity's technological advancement. It was an advanced, artificially intelligent computer database, main functions were data storage and fabrication system. It was designed to provide construction details for human colonists during Mankind's early interstellar expansion across the Milky Way Galaxy due to huge technological differences between various colonies.
Then, after witnessing the powers of the Aeldari in terms of production through their Psychic means, which many believed to be sorcery, we searched for a way to enhance the production capabilities of the STC. And then it came, I proposed to create central artificial intelligence, which would be the pinnacle of our technology, with the ability to control all STC's in the Solar Federation. Normally STC needed a human operation, but if such advanced A.I. as Architect operated STC, it could boost up efficiency by tens of times.
That was the birth of the Main Template Controller.
Unfortunately, I died before implementation. Some old folks were concerned that if all STCs are connected to Architect, then if something happens to the MTC all infrastructure would collapse in a single moment, though they were not wrong. That was why, I have secretly connected the Architect to the network, that was why he had such a huge database.
Unfortunately, due to Universal Laws, all designs needed adjustments before they could be implemented.
I started casing Combat-Tier spell, Grand Fireball. It was just a bigger and more complex version of the Fireball spell.
"Results."
I said after the spell was cast.
[Stability is 100%. Compatibility between Abyssal Runes and Devil Magic is perfect.]
Another success. After repeating this with other spells that were designed as Combat-Tier such as Thunderclap or Magic Missle, I concluded the Combat-Tier as complete.
"Now the last, Tactical-Tier."
This one would be harder a bit, as the destructiveness of these spells was far higher, so I can't make any mistake. Even one would have catastrophic consequences. Tactical-Tier spells could easily destroy towns or even smaller cities.
I started casting the Tactical-Tier spell Dragon Lightning, which generated an enormous dragonhead made out of lightning above me. Fortunately, I had no problem controlling the spell, before dispersing it after some time.
"Analysis."
[Stability is 100%. Compatibility between Abyssal Runes and Devil Magic is perfect.]
Answered Architect in his voice of an elderly man.
"It is done... first three stages of new magic revolution are done."
I with a hint of nostalgia in my voice.
[Congratulations.]
Said Architect in my head.
Chapter 34 - Preparations for the Ultimate
1 year later
One year passed from my achievement of creating a new magic system. During this one year, I have performed countless tests, and as it was concluded, the system was perfectly stable with the addition of Abyssal Runic Magic instead of Aesir one.
Everything was going very well. My business was generating more and more Soul Coins, which is very important for the upcoming war. A number of Arcane Mechanical Automatons stuck up on 100,000 unfortunately.
I lacked materials, so I ordered to stop further production and focus on building fortifications, magic towers,s and fortresses around my territory, to fortify it for war.
I have also trained a lot in the Dark Light Clan Trait and reached Expert-ranked mastery over the Clan Trait. Now I could open ten Dark Light portals, that could constantly generate Dark Light Spears, which boosted up my combat prowess dramatically.
Most important thing that happened during this year was that I will soon reach the Ultimate-Class in energy reserves. Currently, I was at the pinnacle of the High-Class and was holding back, as I needed to prepare some things before reaching Ultimate-Class.
I did my research properly.
When one reaches Ultimate-Class in terms of energy reserves, I didn't know the process for those who focus on body training or physique refining, there comes a huge qualitative change in density and quality of the Energy.
To have as smooth as possible, process, I need to strengthen my foundation, when reaching Ultimate-Class. For devils, the most common ways to reach higher classes were two. One of the simplest ways was to just age, but that is extremely slow. If some had low innate talent, then their progress in decades might be only a few units of demonic energy increasement.
"Architect, is the ritual ready?"
I asked about the state of the ritual. Today I planned to reach the Ultimate-Class, and I planned to use ancient rituals, that my grandfather used to reach Ultimate-Class. Hopefully, after the ritual, not only would I be Ultimate-Class, but also at least early-stage.
[Yes, it is.]
Answered Architect in my head.
I nodded satisfied. What also was the biggest difference between the High-Class devil and the Ultimate-Class devil, was that upon reaching the Ultimate-Class devils would awaken their True Name. Upon awakening the True Name, some tended to get special abilities, some True Names strengthened already existing abilities.
Also, there were another two abilities of True Names.
The first was when it came to Devil Contract. Basically, Ultimate-Class devils could due to their True Names breach the contract and suffer little to no backslash, as in the contract was never mentioned True Name of the devil. That gave Ultimate-Class devils great leverage against their contractors, they could easily cheat them.
The second was that, during the combat, as long as the enemy wasn't aware the True Name of the devil, then you basically get some boost in combat abilities. I don't know how exactly it works, but it had something to do with the Laws of the Universe.
"After I reach the Ultimate-Class and familiarize myself with my new strength, the expedition can commence."
I said with a bloodthirsty grin.
During the past year, I had three dates with Venelana. From a human point of view, it may sound like we never see each other, but for devils, it wasn't like that. With our long lifespans, our perception of time and many things were different. I have greatly enjoyed spending time with her, she was a funny person, responsible and supportive. She encouraged me to pursue my magic research, and I have even taught her my Tier Magic System. Truth to be told, after I reached Ultimate-Class, probably the higher ends, I planned to release it to the public. It would greatly strengthen devils before the Great War and save many lives.
Both of us had many things to do, besides the courtship responsibilities. Venelana reached Ultimate-Class last weak, her talent was better than mine. I had a cheat in form of STC A.I. Architect, still, it was annoying that my own talent was low, truth be told, my talent was rather average.
From then I have started researching a bit about enhancing innate talent for some things, and fortunately, for me, many human magicians had done something in past. Humans of Draconic Deus were pitiful as they were weak, very weak, so they searched for a way to enhance their innate talents to rival those of supernatural beings.
One of such rituals was invented by Myrddin Emrys or by his other name, Merlin Ambrosius. I had that ritual formula in my library, as I had my people rob that library where it was hidden. It required many precious resources from the various Pantheons... my heart bled when I had to spend too many Soul Coins, but alas it was for the greater good.
I had combined that ritual into a ritual that my grandfather used to reach Ultimate-Class, so I am rather curious about changes it would incur.
Combined with STC A.I. and terrifying genius-level magic talent, I wonder what heights will I reach. I am aware that my current talent was ordinary, and that needed to be changed.
I went to find two other Generals of my armies that were currently residing in Castle Fuerig as they were overseeing the training of my legions.
General Amyke and General Azerath. Both of them were of Ultimate-Class and were much younger than General Borke Zagan. Also, they were common devils, that had rather special abilities. General Azerath was born with a terrifying physique and had an immense talent for Touki, Senjutsu, and Martial Arts.
While General Amyke was a swordmaster, and on top of that, he was also a magic swordmaster. For short-lived races, it was impossible, as a time to master sword and magic arts for swordsmanship would take several lives, but long-lived species didn't have such a problem.
I ordered both of them to actively stand on guard, as I would be reaching Ultimate-Class and I didn't want any unforeseen circumstances as I was also undergoing special rituals.
Chapter 35 - Ultimate-Class
After giving out final orders, I went to the ritual hall, where everything was prepared for my attempt to reach the Ultimate-Class. As I combined reaching Ultimate-Class with several rituals, I made the entire thing a bit risky, if it backfires at me, it would be slightly problematic.
I went to the center of the formation and sat down cross-legged.
"Architect, take control of the Rosenkreutz."
I commanded as I was sitting on the ground amidst the magic spells and arrays that were inscribed here.
[At once.]
Answered Architect back.
"We can start."
I said as I activated the spell formation. Ritual has started.
Countless runes started glowing and the density of magic particles increased tenfold in this room after several short seconds. This went on for several minutes until the magic density was so high, it began to liquefy.
After that, I released the last barrier on my body and started passively absorbing the magic particles into my body with grand speed. An enormous amount of magic power was being converted into Demonic Energy and flew into my body, where it fused with the already existing one.
Then the process started, all of my energy started refining itself, without me needed to do anything. I felt that amount of Demonic Energy I possessed was decreasing at an alarming speed, being replaced with far more dense and potent Demonic Energy that was the result of the process.
With help of the ritual, I can practically control the entire thing, and with a continuous flow of demonic energy converted from ambient magic was going to my body, and soon enough, my energy reserves started increasing.
70, 80, 85, 90, 95, 96, 97, 98...
99...
100...
I reached the Ultimate-Class. Finally at least, but thanks to the ritual, it didn't end here, and my energy reserves kept increasing with steady speed for the next half an hour until the magic spells broke down.
After the entire process was done, I suddenly felt the entire room going extremely cold.
'Dizmason'
'Dizmason'
'Dizmason'
Sounded a creepy voice in my head.
'Dizmason of Devil Talent - The one who shall be blessed by the power of Underworld, Nirvana of innate affinity, of the innate talent, shall be one bearing the name of Dizmason.'
Recited the creepy cold voice in my head, as suddenly it disappeared and the temperature of the room returned to normal.
"So... that was the Will of the Underworld. I heard about it only in legends."
From the diary of my grandfather, not even he got his True Name directly from the Will of the Underworld. Grandfather was aware of only two devils he knew, Zekram Bael and Lucifer, apparently, they got the blessing of the Underworld, as they got their True Names.
Normally, Ultimate-Class devils need to figure out the usage and abilities of their True Names, but those who were granted name by the Will of the Underworld didn't have this problem, as the Will told them instead.
After reaching the Ultimate-Class I felt like my body was full of energy. Not only that, but my Demonic Energy was far more potent and dense, it was a wonderful feeling.
"Architect, do the scan."
I wanted to see the exact amount of my growth, I was aware that I was already far above newly advanced Ultimate-Class being in terms of energy reserves thanks to the rituals I have undergone.
[As you wish.]
[Name: Zeoticus Gremory von Lucifer
True Name: Dizmason (Devil Talent)
Race: Pure-Blooded Devil - Bloodline: Gremory, Lucifer
Age: 180
Class: High
Demonic Energy: 152
Strength: 82
Agility: 80
Vitality: 70
Clan Trait:
Dark Light - Expert (Gate of Babylon Style)
The Devour - Sealed
Magic Systems:
Tier Magic - Expert
Devil Magic - Master
Norse Runic Magic - Expert
Abyssal Runic Magic - Expert
Human Magic - Grandmaster]
"Hmm... 152 units, that is good, practically saved me several years worth of time training. This is good, all those Soul Coins were worth it. And my physical parameters also increased mildly, a most notable one being the Vitality, which was greatly strengthened by me reaching the Ultimate-Class."
I said to myself.
But the greatest boon was my True Name. It may seem ordinary, but it was essential for reaching the Being of Law. I knew, that even without some genius-level like talent, I won't have a problem reaching Super-Devil probably within several centuries, but reaching Apocalypse-Class, the Being of Law was impossible.
With this, coupled with STC A.I. my progress would be countless times faster. I was now beyond happy, as I got rid of one of the biggest skeletons in my closet and that was my average talent.
I heard that Celestial Court had even a special method to measure one's talent. Maybe once I will take a look.
Now that I have reached Ultimate-Class, I can finally move on with all of my plans. First thing before the conquest commence, I need to finish another tier of my new magic system, and that was Strategic-Tier, as it would greatly boost up my combat prowess.
Then, I could start the expedition to that newly birthed plane, the Yester Plane.
Also, soon enough my experiment would be done, and I can attempt to awaken my sleeping Clan Trait, fortunately. With Devour ready, I could increase my energy reserves at a good tempo.
Especially during the Great War, where there would be countless Ultimate-Class beings or even higher. Even we devils have tens of Satan-Class devils, though the vast majority were only at the initial or early stage.
Great Satans, there were at Pinnacle. Lucifer was Super-Devil, and his son Rizevim, would too be one in near future, his rate of progress was extremely terrifying.
Angels and Fallen Angels have also many beings on the level of Ultimate-Class and Cadre-Class. So many of them would become my nourishment.
I grinned as I said those words in my head.
"Architect, start working on the Strategic-Tier magic. I need to complete that, before the Planar Conquest."
I needed some firepower. Currently, my only advantage was Class, not combat prowess, if only I had mastery over Dark Light, but that Clan Trait was too hard to master or even train in.
Chapter 36 - Problems at the Border (1)
Two months were by from the moment I have reached the Ultimate-Class. During these two months, I have already contacted Venelana that I have reached Ultimate-Class and also tell her that soon the Planar Conquest can begin.
Now that both of us were Ultimate-Class it would be alright. My progress on recreating Strategic-Tier Magic was going smoothly, and I have already created a few spells.
I only created several spells for each tier, as I wasn't planning to create more. As soon as I release the principle of my new magic system onto the public, devils who specialize in magic would do that for me, and after some time, I just need to harvest my rewards, which would be many and many spells.
I have also told this to Zekram, and he told me to present it to Lucifer. Something I was conflicted about. Technically I was his grandson, as I was the son of his daughter, but the problematic part was that I was only Ultimate-Class while being over 180 years, though I have inherited Dark Light Trait.
If I got into his favor, I could get a higher noble rank, more territory, and more advantages during the war. Additionally, maybe with a bit of luck, I could get his advice on Dark Light.
'I will wait after the Planar Conquest is over, I will decide. Now is not the right time.'
I thought in my head, as I continued my research.
Outskirts of the Gremory Territory, Magic Tower
"Hey, activate the magic sequence the Lord implemented and do a scan."
Said one of the devils on the top floor of the Magic Tower, apparently the commander of the detachment.
"Yes, Commander."
Answered soldier, as he activates the magic sequence, and several magic circles appeared above the Magic Tower and started releasing intense light around the surroundings, reaching several tens of kilometers.
"Sir! There is a signal, Fallen Angels are coming from the north, approximately, 36 kilometers away."
Reported soldier hurriedly.
"How much?"
Asked Commander with dread in his voice.
"Around 30,000 is should be a Divisions of Legion."
A reported subordinate with a trembling voice. Meaning, if it really is a Divisions Units belonging to Fallen Legion, it is a high chance there is Ultimate-Class Fallen Angel leading it to do some kind of mission. And even if not, there should be countless High-Class Fallen, they would be annihilated.
"Immediately activate defense barrier magic. Prepare for emergency escape teleportation and send a message to the Fuerig. Fallen are testing our borders, once again."
Responded Commander quickly. Each Magic Tower that was constructed, had in-build protocols. For example, now, the Magic Tower would activate a defensive barrier that would slow down Fallen for at least two to three hours, and if the barrier is breached, the tower would self-destruct, killing as many of fallen as possible.
As the barrier was created around the Magic Tower, all soldiers teleported out to the nearest outpost before sending a message to the Fuerig HQ. As they were gone, thousands of black-winged figures appeared in the crimson sky of the Underworld, aiming at the Magic Tower.
"Prepare the Light Spears and offensive magic, bring down this shield and kill everyone in the tower."
Screamed leading Fallen Angel, clad in armor as he held a sword in his hand and his four pairs of wings were signifying his Ultimate-Class strength.
"Yes, General."
He was one of the Generals of the Fallen Angel legions that were residing being the demilitarized zone and often had skirmishes with Devils.
As I was comfortably reading magic tome and sipping my tea, suddenly a servant rushed to my room looking extremely panicked, so much, he ignored most of the protocols. Something must have happened.
"My Lord, Divisions of Fallen Angels have attacked one of Magic Towers, closest to the Fuerig Castle. They are led by Legion General."
Said the servant in panic.
'Damm. Right now, that all of my Ultimate-Class subordinates are far away. Though it is a good opportunity for me to test my power.'
I thought in my head before finishing my tea.
"Prepare mass teleportation formation and mobilize the soldiers. I will take Feurig Legion with me. How are their numbers?"
I asked the servant.
"30,000 but there could be more, the Tower is still standing, and ten minutes after the assault began, it sent information about another 50,000 Fallen coming from west of the Tower."
Reported servant. So it should be all-around 80,000 Fallen Angels, while I have 100,000 Devils as I am taking half of one Legion. Problem is that Fallen has an elemental advantage and also, their General.
'Architect, start combat calculations for the best strategy to utilize our advantages.'
I commanded in my head. I needed to get there before the Tower fell ideally, but that was not so realistic. Hopefully, if the tower is destroyed, it could take several thousands of them down, or maybe at least injure the Fallen General.
For the first time, I was wearing the ancestral armor of the Gremory Clan.
I was never for wearing armor, but alas, it could save my life. This one looked like it was made for devils. It looked rather diabolically, painted pitch black, with crimson lines. It took me around thirty minutes to properly put on the armor, as it was the first time I was doing that.
This was going to be my first larger battle since my transmigration. Also, this wasn't an ordinary skirmish, judging based on the number of enemies and their leadership. They probably had something else in mind just besides harassment and testing borders. They probably were for raiding.
Grigori was pretty fucked up when it came to management. Their domestic affairs were even in a worse state than most of devil nobility territories, which was something to ponder upon.
After I had armor on, I exited my bedroom and went to the gathering place, where already thousands of devil soldiers, organized in disciplined formations were gathering.
Chapter 37 - Problems at the Border (2)
I stood at the balcony of the Fuerig Castle, overseeing how my army was gathering. Tens of thousands of soldiers, donned in black armors, holding spears, lances, or halberts looking ready for war.
They were organized in orderly-looking formations, waiting for the order to march.
"This will be hard."
I thought in my head.
[Calculations are done. I have prepared seventeen possible scenarios, which are primary ones. Secondary scenarios could be around fifty.]
Sounded voice of an Architect in my head.
"Hmm..."
I muttered.
After nearly thirty minutes, all of my soldiers were assembled, patiently waiting for the teleportation Gate to open. It was a large-scale teleportation spell, that was often cast to transport a huge number of people.
[The Magic Tower has self-destructed. The approximate death count of Fallen Angels is between 8,000 to 12,000.]
Said Architect, as I grit my teeth. They have breached the Tower, which wasn't exactly something I wanted to hear, each of those Magic Towers took many resources and time to built, but alas, at least it caused enough damage to the enemy.
"Launch the Gate."
I said to the operating magicians behind me, as they started casting the large-scale teleportation magic to open of Gate to the place where Fallen was.
Soon enough, ambient magic in the air surged and soon enough transparent gate appeared.
"For the Underworld, For the Devil race and for Death to the Fallen."
I shouted as I grabbed my scythe and swung it at the Gate, as I unleashed my four pairs of devil wings, signifying my Ultimate-Class strength, greatly boost up the morale of soldiers, as I led my army to the portal.
The place where it opened, was ten kilometers away from the Magic Tower, so I can prepare an ambush at the Fallen.
"Implement plan 10."
Plan 10 was one of the scenarios that the Architect calculated. I sent mental instruction to the Division Commanders on what to do. I had 100,000 Soldiers, from which almost all were of Middle-Class and two and half thousand of them were High-Class.
Plan 10 was a very simple one. I will make a target out of myself and lure Fallen by striking them hard with Strategic-Tier Magic, while my army will hide. Due to huge fluctuations in the ambient magic, it will be night impossible for Fallen to cast properly detect spells, and under the chaos of my Strategic-Tier Magic, they won't have even time.
As the last soldiers were coming out of the teleportation gate, I started casting the spells. Strategic-Tier Spell, Chain Dragon Lightning of High-Rank of Strategic-Tier. Soon enough, an enormous dragon-like phantom made out of purely lightning materialized above my head, having over fifty meters.
"Let the dance begin."
I muttered as I released the spell, in the direction that was full of injured and uninjured Fallen. Apparently, after the self-explosion of the Magic Tower, they have decided to recuperate a little, which was actually good for me, as they were unprotected.
As I shot one Chain Dragon Lightning spell, I immediately started casting another two at once. Thanks to my mastery over Tier magic as its inventor, boost from the Rosenkreutz, and newly, my True Name, its usage of Demonic Energy for one spell of this tier was around 10 Units, which may seem a lot, but for such destructive magic, it wasn't.
Additionally, my regeneration was so fearsome, that in the next six minutes I will have full Demonic Energy reserves. That was also part of the advantage of my True Name, as it was directly granted by Will of the Underworld, I would get many passive bonuses when fighting in the Underworld.
This was something that only a very few existences had. Mainly those who were blessed by the Will, or had Divinity related to the Underworld.
On the side of the Fallen.
General of the Fallen Angels was currently standing in front of his Division Commanders giving them various orders until his eyes perked up a little.
"Attack!"
He shouted, but the spell already hit, and very hard.
As the massive, several tens meters long lightning dragon smashed around the crowds of the Fallen Angels, it evaporated hundreds of them in a single hit.
For someone like General or his Division Commanders, they were able to evade the spell, but other Fallen, especially the injured ones or those who were resting were killed.
"Another two! It should be Ultimate-Class magician, but I don't recognize the spell type... probably devil."
Said the General, as he started ordering the Fallen Angels to mobilize, as two lightning dragons hit different parts of the environment where Fallen were, killing countless of them in the process.
"He is attacking us from distance. If he releases more troublesome spells... how are our losses?"
Asked General as he looked around, as Fallen was quickly recovering from the ambush attack.
"I can sense that five thousand were killed."
Reported Fallen that was proficient in magic.
"Damm. Quickly reorganize before he starts bombarding us with more spells. We need to kill him, I will take half of the soldiers to catch this devil."
Ordered General of the Fallen Legion.
"Hmm... they are equally arrogant to devil nobility, but that is good."
I said to myself as I watched all that chaos, destruction, and death I have caused with only three Strategic-Tier spells. It was marvelous.
"I will send one more at them... but at those that remained there."
I muttered as I cast another Chain Dragon Lightning spell, after it was released, I also ordered several Division Commanders to take half of the army, and go back to the Magic Tower to kill the remaining Fallen there, as I saw that General of the legion took the majority of Fallen to pursue me. Those who remained behind were only around 20,000 and most of them were injured.
I also cast a few defensive spells over myself, to create a barrier around me, so the Fallen would focus on the barrier, and then they could be ambushed by my soldiers.
Chapter 38 - Problems at the Border (3)
After casting several other defensive spells over myself, I patiently waited for the Fallen to arrive, as my soldiers were waiting in the shadows. Thanks to the high fluctuations that my spells made in the ambient magic, casting any kind of detection spells was rendered useless.
Soon enough, the Fallen General was already here, looking straightly at me.
"Who would have thought that the Duke Gremory would personally appear on the battlefield. What an honor."
Said the Fallen General with a mocking voice, to which I revealed a small provocative smile.
"No, no. The honor is mine, for my territory to be attacked by an overgrown pigeon is truly something. I always thought that they were just stupid birds but maybe they had a little brain."
As I said that, I could see the anger on his face clearly.
'This one is easy to provoke. That is a good thing for me.'
I thought in my head as I kept observing the Fallen as they were preparing their Light Spears to attack my barrier. Based on fact, there were around fifty thousand of them here, the barrier would break in one wawe. I am not strong enough to withstand such a terrifying number of attacks... at least not now, without proper preparations.
"What it is pigeon? Did you forget your brain while searching for bread on the streets from human beggars?"
Seeing the General wasn't a patient person, I decided to provoke him to act rashly. If the Fallen fire the first wave, my army would have the best time to attack, as Fallen would be defenseless for several seconds.
"Fucking bat! Kill that abomination of the animal!"
Screamed Fallen General with rage as he barked his orders, and Fallen Angels started preparing their Light Spears and shot them at me, to which I revealed a bloodthirsty grin, as it started.
'Idiots.'
I thought while activating the pre-prepared teleportation rune as at the same time the attack fell, thousands upon thousands of devils appeared and started madly attacking Fallen Angels. All of my soldiers were of Middle-Class in terms of physique and countless of them were even in terms of Energy Reserves, and many were High-Class.
Spells of Devil Magic were being used in thousands as they fell on the defenseless Fallen Angels, that were just comprehending what has happened. After the first salvo of the devil magic, came the second one, this time from the High-Class soldiers that were taught Tier Magic. This one was far more destructive and hundreds upon hundreds of Fallen were being killed with each spell.
"Ambush! Regroup and counterattack!"
Shouted Fallen Angel General, as he saw thousands of his soldiers being killed in the ambush by devils, just now he realized that he was tricked by the devil standing here.
"Isn't it nice? When the blood of your enemies flows like a river and falls down like rain?"
I asked the rhetorical question, as I released tens of Combat-Tier spells, mainly Magic Missles, and Thunderclaps, as countless spells were being shot at the Fallen General.
I was a bit reluctant to use Dark Light as that was my trait.
'Architect, scan.'
I ordered in my head.
[Class: Ultimate
Holy Power: 213
Strength: 49
Agility: 75
Vitality: 30]
'Hmm... in terms of physique he is weaker than me, while he has larger energy reserves. Thought most Fallen are not very creative and use only Light Spears. Similar to devils, they don't use magic often.'
I thought in my head.
Fallen General, quickly unleashed his four pairs of wings, and used them as protection against incoming spells, as he knew he cannot dodge. Also, thinking it to be simple devil magic, he was confident that with a bit of enhancement from Holy Power, he could withstand the attack.
How wrong he was. As soon as approximately 154 spells fell upon him, it shot him backward, several tens of meters, as he coughed blood from his mouth.
"Not your average devil magic, right? Though I don't wait that pigeon like you would understand the beauty of the mysteries of the arcane."
I mocked as the Fallen General screamed in anger and released several huge Light Spears at me, that was flying at me with tremendous speed.
I flew high in the air with help of my four pairs of wings and easily dodged each of them while shooting back a few spells, this time Tactical-Tier ones.
Unfortunately for me, Fallen General, was aware that magic released by me was highly dangerous, so he immediately dodged the spells, though they ended up hitting countless Fallen Angels that were behind him, evaporating them to oblivion.
'Hmm... he is good at dodging even while he is injured. With this speed, he will probably try to escape with his life, that would not be good.'
Seeing that I had no chance, I didn't want to let Fallen General escape.
I flew with my top speed at the Fallen General as I gripped my scythe Rosenkreutz. I wanted the Fallen General to think that I will engage him in close combat. As I was nearing him, he saw that I had a melee weapon, he arrogantly decided to fight me in close combat.
As we were only a few steps away from each other, something unexpected happened. Several portals appeared below and behind the Fallen General, and chains from Dark Light shot out of them, enveloping Fallen General not allowing him to move an inch.
"You are... are... Dark Light."
Said shakily Fallen Angel General with a broken voice.
"Yes, and thanks to your stupidity your death is sure."
I said as I severed his head in one swing of my scythe. Due to him being bounded with Dark Light Chains, he couldn't move an inch.
"Hmm... I am really clumsy with weapons. Architect, build training mech and upload martial arts and fighting styles related to scythe."
I ordered. Solar Federation often used training mechs, to train soldiers in martial arts or weapon masteries. It was very efficient and fast. I only needed to reach Expert-rankled mastery. Especially for the upcoming Conquest, as barbarians without magic would often tend to use close-combat, it would be bad for me If I can't use magic properly.
Chapter 39 - Problems at the Border (4)
During my fight with General of Fallen Angels, my army started slowly overpowering Fallen that were fighting against my devils.
Slowly, many Fallen Angels, were either killed by spells or in close combat.
Corpses of Fallen Angels were falling from the sky, like droplets of the water during heavy rain. For me, a devil, it was a beautiful sight to see. Soon enough, the rest of my army came in, which was ordered to deal with injured Fallen from the explosion of the Magic Tower.
After the rest of my army arrived, the situation completely turned around and hundreds of Fallen were being killed by each passing minute. I, as a newly found warmonger and battle maniac, joined the fight and started slaughtering the Fallen like cabbage.
Most of these Fallen were just Low-Class or Middle-Class, they were weak and their combat prowess was even lower than their Class. I heard some rumors that many Fallen weren't good combatants and only a few of Fallen Armies were top-notch.
Namely, ones led by Azazel, Baraquiel, Kokabiel, and most notable one Azrael the Angel of Death. Though from what I heard, Azrael didn't become part of the Grigori and rather occupied territory deep within the Underworld, far from Grigori and Devils, and became a rather reclusive group.
I wondered a little bit, why.
Why did the strongest Archangel ever created and born, chose to become a reclusive hermit.
I stored the body of the Fallen Angel General in my dimensional storage, as that could be used as my fuel for advancement when I unlock Devour Clan Trait.
I observed the process of cleaning the battlefield. I also ordered to properly clean the battlefield, meaning taking all weapons and armors. Devils normally didn't do that, mainly nobles were against it as it was below them to take something from killed Fallen. I didn't care.
All of those armors and weapons could be smelted and reforged into new things, that would make me money.
After one hour, the entire battlefield was cleared and all corpses of fallen were stored in separate dimensional strategy. I thought they could be useful later, maybe as food for monsters or something in that way.
Altogether, I came here with 100,000 soldiers, and fortunately, my losses were only aroáund between five to eight thousand, which was an excellent victory.
Before leaving, I left here half of my legion to guard the area, before sending here Arcane Mechanical Automatons to build here another Magic Tower as the entire array was now disrupted. The array was actually a super barrier formation, that was created by activating all Magic Towers of my territory at the same time, enveloping it in the barrier that should withstand even attacks of multiple Super-Devils or Greater Divinity Stage Gods.
It was something that I have created with help of an Architect to protect my territory during the Great War. During the war, there would be countless raids, surprise attacks, or ambushes aimed mainly at civilian-populated areas, and that was a great threat as loss of lives could be immeasurable.
Only several Houses had something like this, as it cost a great deal of money to create and required a very experienced and knowledgeable magician, so most Houses didn't bother with creating such defensive arrays. Zekram had one for sure, he even had a smaller version of it, over each city, something that I was just working on.
Truth be told, I have planned to invest the majority of my wealth into the protection and fortification of my territory before the Great War. Wealth could be easily regained after the Great War, as then the entire infrastructure of devils would be in ruins. On the other hand, if the population is lost, the weakening would be for thousands of years if not permanent.
I have returned to the Fuerig Castle, with a satisfied feeling.
'Hmm... I also need to check out the Familiar Forest sometimes.'
Familiar Forest was located in the Underworld filled with monsters that often bonded themselves with magicians or magical races as their servants. Familiar Forest to be precise was a location that devils used as their place to get Familiars and was controlled by Tiamat, one of the Five Dragon Kings.
She was a very terrifying entirety, a very strong one. Dragons were always were strong. Though if possible, I need to avoid her, someone that is stronger than pinnacle Satan-Class isn't someone I wished to meet. Dragons in contrary to devils had an advantage in physique. Meaning, High-Class dragon was High-Class in energy and body at the same time, which gave the dragon ability to contend against weaker Ultimate-Class that depended on energy reserves solely.
Dragons excelled in magic and in close combat equally, so meeting someone like Tiamat wasn't a good idea, and I even heard some rumors that she had a pretty bad temper, so unless I decided to bribe her with some treasures, it is big no.
When I read the compendium of familiar monsters, there was one that caught my eye. Not in strength or raw power, but rather in potential.
It was called Spitting Thorny Flower. It was pathetically weak and without proper abilities at the start, but it had immense evolutionary potential, as it could digest other corpses of other beings, using them as fertilizer to evolve. At later stages, when it evolves into higher evolutions, it obtains terrifying defensive abilities and even offensive at later stages.
There was noted that there was one of those, somewhere in the territory of the Hindu. It evolved to something called Flower Demoness, reaching terrifying strength comparable to the Greater Divinity Stage, it even caught the attention of Shiva, so much, that he decided to make the Flower Demoness his familiar. That was recorded as a rumor several thousands of years ago.
If it caught the attention of someone like Shiva, a Mighty Divinity Stage God, which is the same as Being of Law, it must have something in it. Who knows, what strength it reached now.
Chapter 40 - The Genetics of the Clan Traits (1)
Maybe it reached the next evolution and became a Being of Law... who knows. If someone like Shiva invested in its growth, then its speed of advancement must have been terrifying. Also, some Mighty Divinity Stage Gods could also traverse the Astral Boundary, though with severe restrictions, because their God Slot is bound to a certain plane, but they still could.
After returning to the Fuerig Castle, I turned my attention to one of the last things I needed to do before the Planar Conquest.
That thing was unlocking the Clan Trait of the Gremory Clan, The Devour.
The Architect was running a deep scale analysis for more than two years, practically till the moment, I have transmigrated here. With several experiments, I have conducted on prisoners and criminals, from which a few had dormant Clan Trait, I was able to learn many things.
I even got some books from Zekram that he got who knows where. One of them was certainly interesting. It was called The Book of Lucifer, a really funny name when I thought about it, but it greatly described how the first generation of devils was created and how the Clan Traits worked.
Also, some theories on how to awaken sleeping Clan Trait. Of course, it also recorded the possibility that some devils might not inherit the Clan Trait. That was tied to the bloodline genes, inherited from the bloodline of parents. It may happen from time to time, that child may not have had them at all or an extremely small amount, so it couldn't possibly manifest the Clan Trait.
[Analyzation process upon the Bloodline of Gremory. Possible solutions: 1.]
Sounded the elderly voice of an Architect in my head.
"1?! With all advanced knowledge of the Solar Federation and some bits from the Aeldari Empire upon Genetical Engineering, you have come with just one solution?!"
Now I was a bit angry and nervous. One solution means, if it fails, I have no other option. Maybe I can search for someone on the level of Being of Law who is well versed in magic, alchemy, and genetics to do something, but that was now out of the question.
[Yes. Based on information gathered in my database, combined with those obtained in this Universe, mainly from the Book of Lucifer, the reason why the Devour Clan Trait is dormant in your case, is due to its conflict with the Dark Light Trait.]
Explained Architect, and I immediately understood, as realization struck me like thunder from the clear sky.
"The source of all bloodlines for devils is the Heart, not? Bloodline Heart, if one Clan Trait is too dominant, it could overpower the second one, and Dark Light is as of Darkness Element as it is of Light Element, so it could easily overpower Clan Trait that is pure of Darkness Element. On top of that, Active Clan Traits, are tended to be more aggressive compared to the Passive Clan Traits in the behavior of blood. So the solution would be..."
I talked to myself as I stopped in the middle.
[Yes, to create a new Heart in your body, that could accommodate Gremory Bloodline. If I have complete STC, I could probably come up with more solutions, but alas, current technology is not sufficient.]
Said Architect.
"Constructing the STC is not something I can do with my current abilities. In the plane, probably only Asgard and maybe, Heaven have enough resources and advanced tech to do that."
I said back. The Architect was MTC, short for Main Template Controller, if he had access to the STC, Standart Template Construct, he could manufacture anything as long as he adjusted the blueprint within several hours. Unfortunately, the construction of the STC was still very far away. If I had STC, I wouldn't need to depend on Arcane Mechanical Automatons to do all the work, STC would construct the parts, and Arcane Mechanical Automatons would just put it together, saving much time.
"And tell me, how will I create another Heart in my body? Not talking about moving bloodline genes to that Heart! This is the purely mad solution."
What the Architect proposed, was something of extreme difficulty for my current abilities.
[Heart could be easily cultivated from cells of deceased devils that would serve as biological material, combined with some magic rituals, that shouldn't be a problem. Transplantation may be smaller as there is a 34,5987% possibility that your body will reject a newly germinated Heart, even if it is cultivated from your DNA... a lack of data to use on devil physiology. Moving the bloodline genes... there is a spell for something similar recorded in the Book of Lucifer, though it would require an enormous amount of Demonic Energy to cast. At least several Ultimate-Class devils in Energy Reserves would need to be powering that spell.]
Explained Architect. As I listened, it seemed problematic and complicated. But if it worked, it would be something fascinating.
It would give countless devil chance to awaken dormant Clan Trait and have two Clan Traits at the same time. Not that devils like that don't exist now, they existed, but in extremely small numbers. It was very rare for a devil to manifest two Clan Traits, basically, it meant they had a bit of luck, and most importantly their Clan Traits were compatible with each other, so they wouldn't clash or something.
"Order Arcane Mechanical Automatons to start preparations. I will go and gather Ultimate-Class devils needed to power up the spell."
I said to Architect. In the end, the temptation to awaken the dormant Clan Trait was too big. Having another Clan Trait, especially one like Devour that could constantly enhance my Energy Reserves by devouring the energy of corpses was phenomenal.
I had five Ultimate-Class generals under me, and all of them were Ultimate-Class of energy reserves, but the problem was that I cannot move all of them to one place, at the same time.
It was a risk.
"Fallen won't do anything for a time being."
