Chapter 41 - The Genetics of the Clan Traits (2)
After I killed General of the Fallen Legion, together with 80,000 Fallen Angel Soldiers, they would lay low for a time being.
Still, I had to work very fast, as I didn't want to waste time, and if my territory is unprotected by Ultimate-Class for a longer period of time, it may lead to some complications and attacks.
Germination of new Heart took more than a week. First thing, I germinated it with my own DNA as a basis, to increase compatibility rate and used bodies of many High-Class devils as biological material and nourishment.
Thanks to advanced genetical knowledge from the Age of Technology from my past life, and even knowledge from Aeldari, I was able to genetically engineer a perfectly suited new heart for me.
Also, getting more Hearts was an advantage for me, as most of the Demonic Energy was concentrated in the heart of the devil. From the Book of Lucifer, I have found out, that there existed devils with multiple hearts, mostly first-generation ones.
After the new heart was successfully germinated, I have started working on the ritual that would be performed. It was a complicated one, as it required countless Abyssal Runes to create, laying out the runic matrix for that formation, took me several days.
"Architect, with this Heart what is the possibility of rejection?"
I asked as I was working on the Abyssal Runes to make final adjustments to the ritual.
[21,6982% that your body will reject. Decrease by 12,9005%.]
Decrease by around 12% to 13% was good.
After finishing the work on the runic matrix I went to sleep, and prepare for the ritual tomorrow.
The next day after I woke up, I was notified by the butler that all of my Generals have arrived and were waiting for the next orders.
"So, the operation could start?"
I asked Architect, as I was going to the room, where surgery would be done. It will be performed by Architect himself, through a specialized Arcane Mechanical Automaton that was built for this occasion. I didn't trust anybody else with my body.
I laid on a white table while waiting for the Automatons to start.
[Soon you will fall asleep and when you wake up, everything would be already done.]
Said Architect to me, as I started losing consciousness and falling asleep very quickly. At least that machine was considerate enough, to do the surgery when I was unconscious so I won't feel that hellish pain two times.
After I woke up, I didn't feel very different from before, but If I focused, I could feel a second heart beating in my chest and functioning as the original one.
"So the surgery has been a success, I see."
I muttered.
[Yes, indeed. Compatibility is good, so the heart was successfully accepted by your body. Now we can start the last part of the procedure, but unfortunately for this one, I can't give you anything to lessen the pain from the ritual.]
Said Architect in my head.
"Damm machine. Let's start."
I said, as the runic matrix suddenly lit up, as five figures started supplying the Demonic Energy to the runic formation together with me. All Ultimate-Class Generals were pouring all of their Demonic Energy into the formation, as I felt it reconstructing my bloodline genes.
It hurt like hell, I had to do my best to not scream out of the pain as my bloodline genes were being moved from my original heart, now the first heart to the second heart. Slowly, during one hour, as I was enduring this torture, all bloodline genes were moved successfully.
Afterward, everything was done, I barely was able to catch my breath.
"Return... to... your... position."
I ordered, as all five of them bowed slightly, and disappeared to their positions.
What was interesting, I even felt my Demonic Energy reserves increased by around 10 Units, by the addition of the second heart.
The moment everything was done, I felt that I could use The Devour ability subconsciously, just like I used Dark Light. It felt so natural to me.
[Master, you should check the mirror.]
Said the voice of the Architect, as I summoned a small mirror and looked at my appearance.
My previously pure crimson-colored hair now had countless silver streaks among it. Probably due to bloodlines in my body achieved equilibrium, I now looked more like Lucifer in terms of appearance.
My previously light blue eyes now were of royal purple. I heard that people with purple eyes were destined to be Rulers, Emperors, and Sovereigns. It was a sign that one was blessed with noble fate, though I am really curious if it is true.
Still, that was something that I will research in the future, now I had my Clan Trait unlocked I can devour the energy from the corpse of that Fallen Angel General, and then only visiting the Familiar Forest remains and the Planar Conquest could start.
"This success was most attributed to the Book of Lucifer... I wonder how it got into Zekram's hands. It is something that Lucifer and Lilith would guard at all costs, both of them are Super-Devil Class, and I doubt Zekram would steal it... meaning."
I said to myself as I suddenly realized something.
[Meaning, it was given to you on purpose... probably by Lucifer or Lilith, maybe by both.]
Finished Architect for me. If that was the true cause of things, the true scenario, Lucifer already knew about my heritage. I was awaiting something similar, that Zekram probably won't hide my heritage from Lucifer.
Now it was only a matter of time before he will call for me, and assign me a Lucifuge. There was a reason, why each Lucifer must have a Lucifuge. I felt it from the moment I transmigrated, like an emptiness that cannot be filled with anything.
Whatever I tried, I have never been able to fill the empty cold void feeling I have always felt.
And then... that was the reason.
Chapter 42 - The Devour
Lucifuge Clan was closer to the Lucifer Clan more than any other devil bloodline, as they were made from the same source. Even Clan Trait of the Lucifuge Clan, Power of Annihilation was similar to the Dark Light Trait, as the Power of Annihilation extremely deadly even to devils, same as the Dark Light.
Each member of the Lucifer Clan would get a Lucifuge Clan member based on their bloodline resonance between them. A special bond is formed between them, that is empowering them, making them stronger if they fight together.
Just like Lucifer had Lord Lucifuge, Rizevim had Euclid Lucifuge, and apparently, my mother should have Grayfia, but alas, mother escaped from home, before she could even test the bloodline resonance between them, so there is a very high probability that Grayfia would be paired with me.
That would also mean that she would become my wife by default. If female Lucifuge is paired with male Lucifer or vice versa, they must marry, as there was no better partner for Lucifer than Lucifuge.
Still, that was a topic for later, only when my existence was noticed by Original Lucifer and I would get assigned Lucifuge to me.
For now, I took out the corpse of the Fallen Angel General which was in perfect state thanks to the simple storage spell, apparently, the corpse was still full of energy.
To use Devour, I needed to have direct contact with the corpse, as my mastery was low. My grandfather could use it from distance, and even on hundreds of targets simultaneously.
With my lower-ranked mastery, I need to do it manually and that was troublesome and was low in terms of time. I touched the corpse of the Fallen Angel General and used the Devour ability.
Slowly, all energy that was in the body of the Fallen Angel General started flowing into my body, entering my hearts, strengthening my energy reserves by a smaller amount, of probably 5 Units.
"Architect, scan."
I said to Architect.
[As you wish.]
Soon enough the scan was done.
[Class: High
Demonic Energy: 167
Strength: 82
Agility: 80
Vitality: 70]
"So a total increase by 15 Units if I count increase from the addition of my second heart. With this amount of energy reserves, I shouldn't be weak like a newly advanced Ultimate-Class being. During the Planar Conquest, I fight more and obtain more Ultimate-Class corpses... it would be best If we killed some Lesser Divinity Stage Gods..."
I said to myself.
Body of the Lesser Divinity Stage God or rather of any god was precious. Ironically bodies of Gods were precious even if they are under the Being of Law level. Especially for the Familiar, I planned to obtain, the corpse of Lesser Divinity Stage God would be a priceless treasure for advancement in strength.
I have also around 75,000 corpses of Fallen Angel Soldiers in my dimensional storage and I thought a bit if I should use Devour on them. Unfortunately for me, my mastery was too low, so I won't be able to gain anything.
From notes of my grandfather, with Devour you can devour the energy of same or higher Class. But if one attains Master-ranked mastery over the ability, you can basically refine weaker level energy from countless corpses. For example, you have 100 High-Class corpses, with Devour you can absorb their refined energy that would be equivalent to gainst from weakest Ultimate-Class.
Grandfather didn't use this method often, as it required an enormous amount of energy and gave you only a small increase, it was more profitable to search for beings of the same Class. I even speculated that after reaching Apocalypse-Class, I won't be absorb anything from beings under Being of Law, no matter how many of them would be used in the process.
"Architect, what is progress on adjustments to the Anti-Matter Magicule Cannon Batteries?"
I asked as I sat down.
[Soon first ones would be produced. Arcane Mechanical Automatons have manufactured everything to stabilize and produce Anti-Matter.]
"How is their firepower?"
[Pinnacle of High-Class with the usage of Tier Magic System. With the usage of Magicule Particles, the firepower and stability were increased significantly. Though, the larger version of the Cannons, which are installed on the Voidships, have predicted firepower comparable to the Ultimate-Class.]
Answered Architect. Slowly he was adjusting most of the inventions and weaponry of the Solar Federation for the circumstances of Draconic Deus. Anti-Matter weaponry was one of the most destructiveness the Solar Federation had in its arsenal.
These canons were just small weapons compared to the pinnacle of the Anti-Matter weaponry, that could destroy entire planets with ease. Most powerful Anti-Matter based weapon could implode the sun, though it was never used by Solar Federation and served mainly as a deterrent for the Aeldari Empire and various Ork Empires and Warbands.
Even though it is small weaponry, for upcoming conquest, even Cannon Batteries should enough, taking into account that in primitive society there won't have many powerhouses or advanced technology or magical technology.
"Good... continue adjusting slowly entire database, and give priority to things that could be used immediately in the current situation."
Not everything could be used in this world, where everyone controlled fearsome powers like magic or divine power. For example, things like tanks or Knights will have little to no usage against strong experts for now.
Maybe Knights with enough adjustments, several runic inscriptions, and rare materials could be used. I remember during the Stellar Exodus, Knights were the reason why so many colonies survived till the invention of the Warp Drive and STC. Even when I lived, Knights and Knight Houses enjoyed great prominence and respect in the Federation.
"For, now start slowly preparing for the Planar Conquest of the Yestera Plane. I will depart to the Familiar Forest."
I said to Architect and to myself at the same time.
Chapter 43 - Familiar Forest (1)
I stood before the Familiar Forest and waited for the Familiar Master to arrive. Familiar Master or his apprentices normally act like guides through the Familiar Forest as it was pretty easy to get lost in this dammed place.
Not talking about the fact, this place was also dangerous, as deeper parts of the Forest was filled with General-Level monster and even stronger beings... not to mention, Tiamat the Chaos Karma Dragon, who was stronger than Pinnacle Satan-Class had a nest in a Familiar Forest. Though there have been rumors that she has reached Heavenly Dragon-Class already, due to few engagements with Welsh Dragon Y Ddraig Goch, The Red Dragon of Domination.
"A Devil? ... you smell like Lucifer and... that maniac... interesting."
Said a voice from the darkness. When I turned around I saw a figure standing there, it was a man, a tall handsome man wearing a black coat with a long mixture of black and blond hairs as well as heterochromatic eyes where his right eye is gold and his left eye is black and he has pointed ears.
I knew that he wasn't human and I felt incredible power surging from him.
"Dark Dragon of the Crescent Moon, Crom Cruach."
The man before me was one of the strongest Evil Dragons in the existence, or rather would be. Even though I knew he was strong as Zekram, this should be shortly after he was released from his control by Evil God Balor, who used nefarious means to control Crom Cruach.
"And you have awakened the Devour Clan Trait... interesting... maybe in the future, you would be a worthy opponent. What is your name, fledgling?"
Asked me Crom Cruach as he leaned over the tree. Just by his presence alone, all monsters in the surrounding areas escaped to the deeper parts of the forest.
"Zeoticus Gremory von Lucifer, My Lord."
I replied politely... existences like Crom Cruach could snap my neck in a matter of seconds if they find something they don't like, especially mad ones like Crom Cruach that didn't care about consequences.
"No need to talk with me like some stuck-up noble, fledgling. Just call me by my name... I could be considered as a family friend... yes."
Said Crom Cruach with a small laugh at the end of the sentence.
"Now, now come... I will guide you. What Familiar are you looking for?"
Asked me Crom Cruach as he signaled me to follow him.
"Spitting Thorny Flower."
I answered slowly, as Crom Cruach stopped for a while.
"Hahahaa... you are one of those, right? To groom it to reach a higher level, an enormous amount of resources would be needed... and in case of that thing, you know what I meant?"
Laughed Crom Cruach with a crazy smile.
"Yes. Countless corpses of strong beings for it to evolve. Soon enough the Great War between Three Factions will start and few other conflicts, so I don't have to worry about not having enough fertilizer for my familiar. Currently, I have around 75 thousands of corpses of Fallen Angels, that attacked one of my outposts."
I have read a lot about Spitting Thorny Flower. With each evolution, it will regress to the weakest state, but also obtain new abilities and increase the limit to the strength it could achieve. For example, Spitting Thorny Flower could maximally reach Warrior-Level, afterward it could evolve into Bloody Thorny Flower. It would then obtain new abilities, but also fall back into Minion-Level, though its potential would increase to the Commander-Level... and it worked like this.
"Yes... war."
Muttered Crom Cruach under his breath. I knew he is someone that is affiliated with the Celtic Pantheon, that suffered greatly under Yahweh's expansion of Christianity.
"Crom Cruach... if you want, you can fight against Church and Heaven, I can easily make it real."
When I said that, he stopped in his tracks, and looked at me with piercing looks.
"How that fledgling."
He said.
"Together with Great King Zekram Bael, we have devised a plan how to weaken Church and Heaven. Several other Pantheons would be cleaning their backyards from the influence of the Christianity, most notable ones being Blood Races of the Old Yharnam, Olympians, Shinto, and Aesir."
The last two we not certain... but I will make it certain in the future.
"Celtic Pantheon could clear entire Britannia, and get its territory back... don't you think so? You can even fight on the main battlefield against Cadres, or even Archangels?"
I continued my persuasion.
"Good, good fledgling... you have courage. Do you have enough of it to enter Lifeblood Soul Geass Contract?"
Lifeblood Soul Geass Contract was a very hidden secret among Lords of the Houses. It was a very special type of contract, that devils could enter into, where not even the existence of your True Name could protect you if you breach it.
"Yes."
I said solemnly. If I could get Crom Cruach on my side, it will make everything easier, and also I will have another powerful combatant on my side. Not to mention, that he will soon reach Heavenly Dragon-Class. With his body and magic, he could easily slaughter Archangels.
Among Evil Dragons he was most honorable and respectful. The rest of them were the true embodiment of evilness.
"I have one question before we proceed."
I said before drafting the contract.
"Ask away."
"You have lived for a long time, and seem aware of my secrets of the Devil Race. Lately, I have been thinking... Zekram said that Four Great Satans have a method to restrain Big G... but it sounds laughable to me, three of them are Pinnacle of Satan-Class and only Lucifer is Super-Devil, but Big G is bona fidei Mighty Stage God."
I stated my question. This was something that didn't let me sleep. No matter how I thought about it, never I found something that could answer my doubts.
"Ohh that... the answer is more simple. Do you know about Trihexa?"
Asked Crom Cruach with a creepy voice, to which my face paled.
Chapter 44 - Familiar Forest (2)
"You mean..."
I was shocked beyond everything else.
"When Lucifer was cast out of Heaven and created Devil Race... they started exploring Underworld and even Dimensional Gap. During their exploration of the Dimensional Gap, I heard, from your Grandfather none less, that they found some pocket dimension or whatever... which actually was sleeping place of Trihexa."
Explained Crom Cruach.
"Those madmen... Don't they know if it breaks free from Yahweh, we are all screwed..."
I said with anger... so that was their plan. They planned to release Trihexa on Yahweh in a sealed area. Such a fight between two existences on that level could go for even years. Even if he won, he would be greatly weakened and severely injured, recuperation may take decades.
"Yes, they are... using Trihexa, the Beast of Apocalypse for something like this. If it goes out of control entire Underworld, Heaven, and entirely of the Draconic Deus would be turned to dust... unless Shiva, Jade Emperor, or Great Red steps forward to stop it."
On the Draconic Deus, there were only a few existences that could rival Trihexa. On top of that, Trihexa, as the Beast Emperor of the Apocalypse was noted for its terrifying defensive and regenerative abilities.
"Let's rather turn the list... why are you coming to the Familiar Forest, Crom Cruach?"
I said as we were walking through the Forest.
"Simple. After Lugh defeated Evil God Balor, and I was released from the control spell that bastard put on me, I have decided to tour the world and observe Human World and Underworld as part of my training... though the Human World is disgusting for me, as everywhere I look there is Church... fortunately not for a long time. Why Familiar Forest? I came to challenge Tiamat to fight, she is the strongest of the Dragons on the Draconic Deus if we are not counting Red One and White One."
Said Crom Cruach. Great Red and Ophis weren't on the list, as they were cooped in the Dimensional Gap, and they were already Tier 3 existences, there was no worth of mentioning them, they were too above our current league.
Tiering was something Architect came with. Basically, Tier 1 existences, or as I called them cannon fodder, was everything from Low-Class to High-Class. Then there were Tier 2 existences, Ultimate-Class / Lesser Divinity Stage God to the Super-Devil Class / Greater Divinity Stage God.
Tier 3 existences were called Beings of Law, though I have no idea how many Classes were there, there was a severe lack of information about it. So unless some Mighty Divinity Stage God or Apocalypse-Class powerhouse started talking, nobody would know anything.
"Why are you so adamant about defeating Tiamat?"
I asked out of curiosity as I listened almost twenty minutes about Crom Cruach telling me about Tiamat.
"When we were fledglings, we were born in the same mountain range, so we interacted a lot. That woman told me, If I were to get stronger than her, then she would become my mate... so here I am. On top of that, I could get a grand fight with someone on the Pinnacle of the Dragon-King Class."
Said Crom Cruach, so Tiamat wasn't Heavenly Dragon-Class now. That was good, but I would never suspect, that he was here to find a mate. Though similar to devils, dragons also wanted to have the strongest mates, so their offspring would have the best genes possible.
We devils did the same. Truth be told, I would have never laid with a woman who was weaker than me or had low potential. It was in my pride as the devil, though not everyone was like me. I was more like devils like Zekram in this regard. Many of the younger devils were promiscuous and didn't care about their choice of sexual partner.
"At first help me find my familiar and then go to do what do you want."
I said to him in frustration. I wanted to quickly find that Spitting Thorny Flower, but finding something in this place was dammed nightmare, as I couldn't even use location and detection spells, due to the presence of Tiamat.
I don't want to be dragged into her fight with Crom Cruach as for me it would just spell fast death above everything else.
"What about Lifeblood Geass Contract, fledgling?"
Asked Crom Cruach slowly to which I nodded.
"As long as you are able to give me many battles and fights, I have no problem following your orders... at least to a certain degree. With this, my debt to your grandfather is repaid."
Siad Crom Cruach as we signed the Lifeblood Geass Contract.
With this, Crom Cruach became my partner? or what is the correct term? He wasn't subordinate or retainer... though he will fight my battles if the opponent is strong enough to provide him a challenge.
"What debt?"
I asked as I noticed his words at the end of the sentence.
"Something that is not your matter fledgling."
Answered Crom Cruach shortly.
"Come on fledgling, we need to find you familiar and I have a meeting with Tiamat."
Said he excitedly at the prospect of the fight and possible mating, though I don't really know which one he meant... but If I can guess then probably the fight is more important.
Fortunately, as we were walking through the Familiar Forest, most of the monsters let us be, thanks to the savage killing intent that Crom Cruach was releasing to scare everything away. On the other side, he also wanted to lure Tiamat here. He said she was obsessed with treasures, so she spent all her time deep within her cave labyrinth, guarding her treasure vault.
"We are already near... somewhere here plant-type familiars reside. Now you can go alone, if I go there, they will all hide."
Said Crom Cruach as he looked at the part of the forest.
"Thank you... after your business with Tiamat is finished, please visit me at the Castle Fuerig."
I said politely as Crom Cruach just nodded and disappeared.
Chapter 45 - Familiar Forest (3)
Now, even if I can't find that Spitting Thorny Flower, my trip was already worth it, as I have entered into Lifeblood Geass Contract with Crom Cruach. The only thing I need is to provide him, enemies, to fight, and he will aid me in my endeavors... which was a good deal for me.
Crom Cruach and this contract with him will become my trump card for upcoming events. If he reaches Heavenly Dragon-Class soon enough, which was near for him, then it would be for best. Only If I was stronger, I could take him as my subordinate, but that would require at least Super-Devil Class strength.
For now, I will be satisfied with what I have.
Thus I started searching for the Spitting Thorny Flower. And truth to be told, searching for one plant-type familiar monster in a huge place like Familiar Forest was a nightmare. Thus I have decided on another kind of strategy.
I took out several corpses of Low-Class Fallen Angels I have killed during the skirmish and dropped them at the ground, and then concealed myself.
Spitting Thorny Flower would be lured here, by the aroma of fresh corpses it could eat to strengthen itself, and at that moment I may bind it.
After waiting for nearly one hour, I finally found what I was looking for. Huge two-meter tall green plant, that looked like an ordinary carnivorous plant, with just one exception, that it was huge.
I looked at the plant, as it stared at the corpses of the Fallen Angels cautiously, looking around and checking if this was not a trap. Seeing this I waited for a little and decided to reveal myself when it started eating them, as then, It couldn't escape quickly.
After several minutes, the Spitting Thorny Flower started slowly enveloping the corpses of the Fallen Angels, in vines, absorbing them into its body, as I slowly canceled the stealth spells, I cast over myself, and revealed my presence.
Spitting Thorny Flower looked surprised and alarmed, but I soon took out another corpse of Fallen Angel, and threw it to the Spitting Thorny Flower, in a sign that I am not an enemy, but a friend.
The intelligence of the Spitting Thorny Flower was rather low, it increased with each evolution, from what I have heard that in higher evolutions, it could be far more intelligent than the average human, and even gain a humanoid form.
Spitting Thorny Flower looked at me curiously, before taking a step closer to me, while still looking at the corpse of the Fallen Angel, that I have thrown her.
Making a contract with Familiar wasn't that easy thing. The Familiar Monster needs to have some level of trust in the person who wishes for the contract. Some Familiars were hard to gain their trust, fortunately, in the case of Spitting Thorny Flower, it was rather easy.
As long as I have food in form of corpses, gaining the trust was just a matter of time.
After half an hour, just like I have thought, the Spitting Thorny Flower started being relaxed around my presence, so I used a binding magic spell. If the Spitting Thorny Flower accepted it, then I would gain a Familiar.
Suddenly, a faint light appeared, as I felt a bond being created between me and Spitting Thorny Flower.
"Excellent. Architect, scan the Familiar."
I said with satisfaction.
[As you wish.]
Answered Architect, as he did the scan on my newly obtained Familiar.
[Race: Spitting Thorny Flower
Level: Minion
Magical Power: 5
Strength: 15
Agility: 4
Vitality: 24]
As I looked at it, while it was terribly slow, it had terrifying Vitality and even Pinnacle-Level Strength for the Minion Level. Its Magical Power was pathetic as was the Agility.
But that Vitality... it has broken the limit. Apparently, the Vitality was the specialization of the Spitting Thorny Flower.
"How long before you reach the next Level and Evolution?"
I asked the Spitting Thorny Flower. The next evolution would increase the limit to the Commander Level.
Spitting Thorny Flower released several incomprehensible sounds for a normal person, but I was a bonded master was able to understand them perfectly.
"So around 2,000 to reach Pinnacle Warrior Level and to initiate next Evolution, the maximum you can digest?"
I said grimly. Damm, the consumption of corpses was too much. I just don't want to imagine, how much would it increase in later evolutions, apparently, the higher evolution, the higher need for fertilizer.
Or I could feed it something like corpses of Dragons, I thought about that as a joke. Though If I find the corpse of the dragon, maybe I will give it to the Spitting Thorny Flower.
"Okey... fortunately, the war is coming, so there is no need to worry for fertilizer. Come, you can let your roots in the Fuerig Castle, and I will bring all corpses you want there."
I just wonder how much rivers of blood and mountains of flesh must have Shiva invested into his familiar to evolve into Golden Crown Flower Queen or whatever was that evolutionary stage called. Though Shiva is God of Destruction and his wife is God of Slaughter, for them to find and destroy some planes in the Dimensional Gap to feed that plant is ordinary matter.
The Spitting Thorny Flower nodded its two large flower heads hearing my words, and started moving and behind me, as I opened the teleportation portal to the Castle Fuerig. Now I can do such spell, as I don't need to worry about Tiamat finding me for trouble, as she surely has her hands full with Crom Cruach making havoc there.
As I watched the Spitting Thorny Flower disappear into the teleportation. Then I looked into the distance, as I sensed huge fluctuations of the wild magical power from there.
"So they started fighting. Maybe I could go observe... nah. I could be mistaken for the enemy."
I said to myself, as I also entered the teleportation spell and disappeared from the Familiar Forest.
Chapter 46 - Duel of Crescent Circle and Chaos Karma
3rd POV
Shortly after Crom Cruach left Zeoticus to his own things, he went directly to the cave where Tiamat was cooped up. Among all dragons living on the Draconic Deus, Tiamat was one that was most obsessed with finding, collecting, and guarding her treasures.
Crom Cruach still in his human form stood there, before the entrance in her cave as he looked around the place, sensing dragon.
"Tiamat, you treasure nut come out! Or I will steal your treasures!"
Shouted Crom Cruach with his loudest voice to the entrance of the cave. An enormous amount of Dragon Aura and Draconic Power radiated from him, as he shouted into the cave.
"Bastard you will not steal any of my treasures!"
Shouted back an angry female-sounding voice from the cave.
Soon enough, a huge dragon appeared from the dark cave. It was more than ten meters tall and fifteen meters long, with celestial blue scales that glittered in the light.
"Why have you come here Cruach? I am not interested in you battle-maniac antics."
Grumbled Tiamat as she looked at the Crom Cruach in his human form.
"Not my problem. It was you who told me if I can defeat you, you will be my mate..."
Said Crom Cruach as he started changing to his original form. In his dragon form, he was a majestic jet black dragon, with enormous dragon wings, that were bigger than Tiamat at least by half.
"Just because you are bigger than me doesn't secure your superiority."
Said Tiamat as she spread her wings, and flew at the Crom Cruach with her fastest speed, and breathed an enormous amount of dragon fire at him.
To counter this attack, he enveloped his wings in defensive draconic spells and used them to shield himself from the attack rather easily, as Tiamat's dragon breath wasn't able to put even a scratch on his scales.
"It appears your flame is weaker than those of mix-breed drakes."
Said Crom Cruach. Comparing a dragon to a drake was one of the biggest insults of their kind. Especially the mix-breed. The only worse thing is to call the dragon a lizard, which infuriates them to death, and most would even risk their lives to kill the offender.
As counter-attack he punched at Tiamat with his front legs, sending her flying several tens of meters, taking with her many trees and rocks in the process as her huge body crashed.
While each dragon had innate Draconic Magic that was a special branch of magic that only dragons knew, Crom Cruach likes to battle more in close combat rather than with magic. Though Draconic Magic was probably to most crude, wild, and primitive magic system in Draconic Deus.
Still, never underestimate the Draconic Magic. While it may be wild and primitive, it was so destructive that it outclassed the majority of the magic systems existing in the Draconic Deus. Most of the spells of Draconic Magic were like a tsunami that took everything with it and destroyed it with just brute force.
Before Tiamat could even get up, Crom Cruach already flew high above her, and started kicking her with his back legs, and punching her with his front legs, and occasionally slashing her with his tail.
"AAHHHH!"
Screamed he, as Tiamat out from nothing bit his tail with her strongest bite. The tail was an extremely sensitive body part for dragons, devils, or any other creatures that had it.
"I admit... that you are currently stronger."
Said Tiamat with an exhausted voice, as she barely caught her breath.
"I know. Now, do you surrender? I will also give you some treasures for my future mate."
Said Crom Cruach as he pressed his front leg on her neck.
"Treasures?!"
Tiamat's eyes widened in surprise as she nodded with her head.
Afterward, he released her, and both of them changed to human forms. n her human form, she has the appearance of a beautiful woman with straight and long beautiful pale blue hair, dark blue eyes, and a cold atmosphere that radiates from her beauty. She wore a navy blue skirt, and her entire body is doused with the color of deep blue.
Tiamat was beautiful both in her dragon form and the human form.
"Why did you construct your lair here in the Familiar Forest? Aren't you tired of dealing with those arrogant and stupid bats that often come here?"
Asked Crom Cruach in confusion, not hiding his disgust with most devils, as he thought they were weak.
"Not much... those who dare to do something here just become my food. Especially the ones from Noble Houses, their flesh and blood is especially tasty."
Said Tiamat with dangerous glee in her eyes. Dragons enjoyed eating flesh that was right on magical power, and devils were... so it was not surprising Tiamat would eat some devils from time to time.
"And why are you here in the Underworld Crom Cruach?"
Asked Tiamat.
"Training. I was previously training in the human world, but unfortunately, it is stuffed with the presence of the Church too much for my taste. After Lugh defeated Evil God Balor I have decided to continue my training to reach Heavenly Dragon-Class. After leaving the human world, I have decided to tour the Underworld."
Answered back Crom Cruach as he dusted off his clothes.
"I have also met an interesting fledgling devil, who was brave enough to enter Lifeblood Geass Contract with me. In exchange for occasional help, he will provide me good battles."
Said Crom Cruach.
"So you will probably participate in the war between Heaven, Grigori, and Devils?"
Asked Tiamat as she looked around.
"Yes... personally, I have a great deal of hatred for Heaven and the Church. So I would be causing problems for them, even for free."
Said Crom Cruach.
"Also, don't you want to come with me? I heard that Church and Heaven have countless treasures."
He said with a feral grin.
"Treasures?! Where... I am in."
Exclaimed Tiamat in happiness as she led Crom Cruach to her nest.
Chapter 47 - Preparations before the Conquest
POV Return
After I have returned to Castle Fuerig, my Spitting Thorny Flower took roots in the separate garden which was located in the underground complex under the Castle Fuerig and started digesting the corpses of the Fallen Angels, I have been supplying.
While Spitting Thorny Flower was the lowest evolution of this species, its digestion speed was still absolutely terrifying. I could digest hundreds of corpses within a day. I have waited three days, and just after three days it has reached Pinnacle of the Warrior Level, and now was preparing for the next evolution.
With Architect's calculations, I found out, for the next evolution, will need 5,000 of them. No wonder most of these flowers never evolved beyond Bloody Thorny Flower, which is the next evolutionary stage of the Spitting Thorny Flower. The amount of fertilizer was enormous, I wonder how that one, which Shiva contracted was able to reach its level, before being found out before Shiva.
Maybe it discovered some kind of God's Graveyard. Considering that one was living in the Dimensional World of Hindu Pantheon, it seemed possible.
Fortunately, I have enough fertilizer, so I left it there and also, left there a few Arcane Mechanical Automatons, that will be taking care of the feeding process. Now the most important thing was the Planar Conquest of the Yestera Plane.
I have already sent a notice to the House of Bael, telling them we could start. Soon Venelana and also that Magicians from Zekram would arrive.
And soon enough, after I sent the notice, Venelana arrived through the long-ranged teleportation. Contrary to what she was usually wearing, this time she was wearing combat armor. I must admit, that she looked more attractive in the armor rather than in dresses.
"Hello Vena... you look gorgeous in the armor."
I said while gently kissing her hand, to which she giggled in satisfaction.
"Hello to you as well Zeo. Magicians should arrive soon."
Said Venelana.
"Magicians?"
I asked in confusion, as I thought Zekram would send only one person.
"Yes. There is only one Ultimate-Class magician, Mephisto Pheles. He brought with him his apprentices to experience Planar Conquest. Most of them are of High-Class and pretty skilled in many magic systems."
I perked up hearing that Mephisto Pheles would come. He was the best magician among devils that has mastered countless types of magic. He often used humans as his medium, entering into a contract with humans, he will give them power, while they would obtain for him new magic.
This is good, I can compare notes with him about my Tier Magic System.
After some time, Mephisto Pheles along with his apprentices arrived. Mephisto Pheles is a middle-aged man with gelled hair, which is a mixture of red and blue. He has heterochromia; his left eye is blue, while the right is red. He had that weird aura of mysteriousness around him like you can't know what is this person thinking or something in that way.
"Lord Mephisto, I welcome you to my abode the Castle Fuerig."
I welcomed him with a slight bow. He was Lord of his own house, The House of Pheles, and was also the best and most respected magician in the devil species.
"I am grateful for such warm welcome, Lord Gremory. It honors to meet someone of your lineage after your parents passed away."
Said he in a polite voice as he bowed back.
'So he knows... Zekram. Apparently, my little secret won't be secret for a long time.'
I thought in my head as I gestured for him to follow me together with Venelana.
"Now, I will be taking to this expedition altogether 13 Legions, which are 2,6 million soldiers and two of my Generals who are on Ultimate-Class. I, unfortunately, don't have proper battle magic-oriented Legions, so that responsibility for long-distance attacks would mainly fall on you Lord Pheles, and me."
I said to him.
"That is acceptable. I will instruct my apprentices to start building the portal slowly. It will be done within the upcoming days, as it requires many resources and experiences magicians to open. I heard from Lord Zekram that your Lordship is well-versed in magic to the point of creating a wholly new Magic System. If possible, may you show me the results of your research? I will also show you something of my own creation in exchange."
Said Mephisto Pheles to me to which I smiled widely. This was something I have waited for.
"Of course, it would be my pleasure to discuss magic with the genius of our race, Lord Pheles."
I said happily, but then I saw bored Venelana.
"But before that, I need to spend some time with my fianceé, naturally you understand."
I said hurriedly, as I knew if I start the academic discussion now, we will be discussing magic for several days straight, and Venelana would be unhappy, she will not say anything, but I knew she would be disappointed.
"Obviously I understand, I also have some obligations that I need to fulfill, so we will meet in the evening?"
Asked me he, to which I nodded my head in agreement.
"Thank you."
Said Venelana quietly to me to which I smiled little.
"Grandfather send you his regards."
"Where is he?"
"Now he is meeting with Werewolf Tribes. While they are much weaker than Bloodkin, they also have two or three combatants powerful enough to cause damage to Church. Apparently, after your discussion with him, he is hell-bent on the destruction of Church."
Said Venelana.
"Hmm... I that destruction of the Church won't be entirely possible, but we can destroy its influence in other parts of Europe. In Italy, it is far deeply rooted, but from Britannia, Ireland, and eastern Europe it could still be purged with fire and blood."
I said with a feral grin. Italy and central Europe were lost case, Heaven would protect it at all costs, but other areas have some Pantheons that are hiding in fear from Yahweh and his Archangels, but that would soon end.
Chapter 48 - Opening the Portal
"I will depart for the Asgard and Takagahamara after the conquest of the Yestera Plane is done."
I said to Venelana as we then started talking about various mischievous things.
"Your new look is pretty good... more handsome than before."
Said Venelana during our conversation as a reaction to my new upgraded looks.
After several hours I have been accompanying her and tea and snacks, I went to Mephisto Pheles to discuss magic.
Progress on the construction of the planar gate or astral gate was going steadily. It was decided that the portal would be constructed away from Castle Fuerig, in the militarized zone.
Thus entire area where the portal was located, was guarded by several Magic Towers, creating enormous defensive and offensive formations, to protect the gate, and protect everything from the gate.
Getting help from Mephisto Pheles would greatly help in the propagation of my new magic system and more importantly, the creation of new spells. I have created only several spells, as I wasn't bothered creating countless spells, as there are those who will do it in my stead.
"Lord Lucifer."
"Lord Pheles... so Zekram is very interested in announcing my heritage to the entire world as it seems."
I said while greeting him back. Though with my new appearance, he didn't have to do much, as I would be suspected by most, as silver hair is a trademark of the Lucifer and Lucifuge blood, though, with my Dark Light, it is clear as night's sky.
"Indeed, you are an anomaly, My Lord. For Lord Zekram, or even for Lord Lucifer. In long term, keeping your heritage hidden may cause you more damage than profit. As Ultimate-Class devil, and I can predict, that you won't stay as Ultimate-Class long time, right?"
Said Mephisto as he looked at me.
"For whatever you wish to do, you need to bring the maximum from your bloodline, from the fame of the name Lucifer. Devils respect it, at the most innate level, as the original is the creator."
Said to me Mephisto.
"We will see at the later date... after the conquest of the Yestera. When will the portal be ready?"
I asked the important question of this day.
"One day, two days maximally. Planar travel is pretty complicated and one mistake could result in us connecting to an entirely different plane within the Dimensional Gap or we would get lost in the Dimensional Gap and die subsequently. It needs patience and resources, fortunately, we have enough of both, right?"
Mephisto said that with a small laugh at the end.
"You have scouted the Yestera Plane, right?"
I asked him.
"No... that was work of Lord Zekram, but he didn't give me anything, so we will need to do it after we enter the Yestera Plane, but the civilization there is weak, some human barbarians, and mainly goblinoid species and some monster species."
Said he in a sorry voice, as it was also additional work for him as a main leading magician of the expedition.
"Dammed old man. Rather, for now, come and look at the fruits of my research!"
I exclaimed happily as we started comparing notes about magic. I showed him my Tier Magic System with a brief explanation about how it worked. Then Mephisto tried it, and thanks to his exquisite knowledge of devil magic, human magic, and several types of runes, he was able to replicate the results.
"Hmm... how did you solved the spellcasting stability? All rune types I am using, be it Aesir, Hieroglyphs, or Shinto they are resulting in a great deal of incompatibility. You must found a suitable Runic Language that is perfectly compatible with Devil Magic, right?"
He said as he observed the spell he cast.
"As expected of someone of your abilities when it came to magic. Yes, Zekram provided me with entirely new Runic Magic, which is absolutely perfect for the usage with Devil Magic. Innate Affinity Compatibility is 100,00%"
I said to him. Afterward, we spent talking about magic till the next day, as we worked together on the Tier Magic System, as Mephisto said it was more suitable for Devils than their innate magic, due to the lack of firepower of Devil Magic.
After one another day, that was spent by me with either accompanying Venelana or researching magic with Mephisto Pheles, the outline of the planar gate was finally constructed by Arcane Mechanical Automatons and apprentices of Mephisto Pheles.
Now it was time to activate the planar gate by casting the correct spell, that would activate the entire runic formation that was engraved there, and the gate would be open.
Then my armies could march and conquer. Search and destroy.
I was standing at the balcony of the Fuerig, together with me was Venelana, and behind us were standing two of my Generals, General Amyke and General Borke Zagan. All of us were in our armors, and down below, all around the Fuerig, hundreds of thousands of devil soldiers were lined up in nice and clear formations, waiting for orders.
Suddenly, Mephisto started chanting the incarnation for the spell, and the entire runic matrix started glowing as an enormous amount of ambient magic was being drawn to the spell formation, and a dimensional portal was being formed around the planar gate, in the same kaleidoscopic color as was the Dimensional Gap.
"Send in scouts."
I commanded sternly, after seeing the planar gate was connected to the Yestera Plane.
Fortunately, it took only twenty minutes until the scouts returned with good news, that the planar gate materialized on the abandoned area that looked like some kind of wastelands there. After hearing the report I grabbed the Rosenkreutz and swung it at the planar gate.
"March! To battle! To conquest! For the Glory of Devil Race!"
I shouted to my soldiers, as 2,6 million devils, started marching to the gate, after General Amyke and General Borke Zagan went ahead of them, to guard the gate.
"Come on my dear... death and destruction await us."
I said to Venelana who nodded happily and followed after me.
Chapter 49 - Yestera Plane
On the other side, where the portal opened, it was a wasteland.
There were only dead trees, dead plants, and similar things. Not even an insect was living here. Tens of thousands of devil soldiers were swarming the area like swarms of ants and started guarding the area. After soldiers came through the gate, thousands of Arcane Mechanical Automatons swarmed through the portal and started digging into the ground.
"What are your spiders doing Zeo?"
Asked me Venelana as we walked through the portal.
"They are building a fortress around the portal. Then they would move onto the Penta-Runic Magic Tower Formation, which would be built inside the fortress, and the Octa-Runic Magic Tower Formation, which would be built around the entire area where the fortress would be located. We need this place to be protected best to our capabilities, in case this fortress is attacked."
I answered her back.
Now the most important thing was to build fortifications around the portal and defensive formations, in case of attack. If this portal is destroyed, we are all fucked up very well, as to build a new one, we would need to search the whole plane for suitable resources. If an enemy has the power to destroy the portal, he would be far stronger than my army. So in short, portal destroyed = fucked up.
"General Borke goes and secure perimeter of twenty kilometers, kill everything, and if possible capture some intelligent lifeforms in the plane."
I gave an order, as General Borke bowed slightly.
"General Amyke, organize soldiers to help Arcane Mechanical Automatons in building the fortifications, we need them to be built as soon as possible."
He also bowed and left to help to build fortifications.
"Lord Pheles, if you mind, together with your apprentices, scan the area and start laying protective spell formations. Then join General Amyke and Arcane Mechanical Automatons to help to build the fortifications."
I gave one order after another after just Venelana stayed with me.
We have sat together, as I conjured two chairs and a tea table and started brewing tea. As proper Lord, and Commander of this expedition, I enjoyed the view while waiting for tea.
"So, how long do you think this conquest will take?"
Asked me Venelana as we were sitting down and observed everything below us. As the soldiers and Arcane Mechanical Automatons were working hard to build fortifications and everything around it.
"Depends on strength of natives. Preferably less than one year. If the natives here are stronger than initial thought, then it would take even more. From what your grandfather told, the peak of this plane should be only Ultimate-Class, something we can deal with."
I explained while finishing the brewing process of tea.
"And what if they are above?"
Asked me Venelana curiously. If there was something on Satan-Class then we are in deep problems.
"Then I will call help. Though I believe it won't be necessary."
I said slowly, to which Venelana nodded.
We continued drinking tea until soon enough was dark and each of us went to sleep in our tents that were constructed.
A day after, I was in a meeting with Lord Pheles, General Amyke, and General Borke Zagan. Even Venelana was here though she looked pretty bored as we were discussing military things.
"The fortress around the portal together with Penta-Runic Magic Tower Formation would be constructed within one week maximally, afterwards we could start the march."
Said General Amyke his report.
"Lord Pheles, when can you cast a large-scale magical scan?"
I ask while looking at Lord Mephisto Pheles.
"Preparations are done, now just we need to wait until the Penta-Runic Magic Tower Formation and Octa-Runic Magic Tower Formation. Then we would be able to scan the entire plane, as this world is not that big. Probably only 50% of Draconic Deus, not counting all planes connected and tied to the Draconic Deus."
This was probably the best course of things to scan the entire plane in one go. Casting large-scale scanning scan was troublesome, casting such spells, would require probably experienced Apocalypse-Class to scan the entire plane.
For Mephisto to cast such a spell even with help of Penta-Runic Magic Tower Formation and Octa-Runic Magic Tower Formation was a good feat. Also, it will save a lot of time. With one spell, we would have a detailed map of this entire plane, with all notable locations, and even settlements. Or at least, what is on the surface.
In regard to an underground world, if this plane has something like that, we would need to do it by ourselves.
"Very well, then we will wait for one week until Penta-Runic Magic Tower Formation and Octa-Runic Magic Tower Formation are constructed and then we will start. Generals, how are my Legions?"
I asked as I looked at General Amyke and General Borke Zagan.
"Half of them is working together with Arcane Mechanical Automatons on the building process, while half guards the area. They change their roles each day."
Replied General Amyke.
"Morale is high, and soldiers are eager to fight."
Replied General Borke Zagan.
"Have we encountered some monsters or other species?"
I ask.
"Not many, only a few hundreds of monsters, strongest being only at the Commander Level monster. They were soon turned into rations... besides that nothing."
Stated General Borke Zagan.
"Good, but be on guard if General Level monster shows up. Start searching through this entire area we have termed as wasteland and kill everything. After Penta-Runic Magic Tower Formation and Octa-Runic Magic Tower Formation is completed and we have a complete scan of the Yestera Plane we will start the march."
I gave out my orders as both General Borke and General Amyke bowed slightly and left the tent.
"Lord Mephisto you and I will go and help to construct magical defenses over the place."
He just nodded before my eyes looked at Venelana.
"Venelana, you will protect the home fort."
I said to her. General Amyke was tasked with protecting the outer perimeter, General Borke was in charge of the search, while I and Mephisto were doing magical defense. So Venelana as the last Ultimate-Class was tasked with the defense of the portal.
Chapter 50 - We March! (1)
One week later
After one week, I have arrived with my Legions in the wastelands of the Yestera Plane, the entire place had changed tremendously.
The first thing to notice was probably the entire place has been turned into one massive military outpost. Around the portal, the majestic gothic-looking fortress was built by the combined effort of Arcane Mechanical Automatons and my soldiers, while incorporating their Penta-Runic Magic Tower Formation created from Five Magic Towers, which were part of the fortress.
Several miles away, one could see, eight Magic Tower that was creating the Octa-Runic Magic Tower Formation. Below these wonderful structures, thousands of upon thousands of soldiers were swarming as they were either patrolling the area or training.
"So, how are the results of the magic scan Lord Pheles?"
I ask Lord Mephisto Pheles as we were in the war room, that was located on the top of the fortress.
"Of course, Lord Lucifer."
He said lightly, calling me only by the name Lucifer. He then conjured a map of the entire Yestera Plane.
"This entire plane has landmass around 50% of Earth Plane. It has one continent and two sub-continents, which are not too far from the main continent. This continent we are located, we have named as Ewor. Another sub-continent we named as Ihor and the main continent is addressed just as Main Continent. Now to the Ewor Sub Continent."
Explained Mephisto Pheles as he conjured the image of Ewor Sub Continent.
"Now, we are located at the southern edge of the subcontinent. Only a few miles south from our position is the sea. Our only way to expand is to conquer the entire southern area, which is inhabited by three human barbarian tribes, and several small monster nests or human settlements."
Pointed Lord Mephisto Pheles to the most southern point of the image.
"What about the three tribes?"
Asked General Borke Zagan.
"Not too much of a problem. They are very weak, with only two Ultimate-Class barbarians among them. While they may have Ultimate-Class physique, with Tier Magic, killing them should not be a problem as I already tested the magic resistance of these barbarians, it is weaker than expected. Other Magic System as Aesir one should do the same work. Population wise, they have around one million population altogether, while combat wise, approximately half of them is able to fight, but they are weak."
Explained Lord Mephisto.
"General Amyke, General Borke, Venelana each of you will take three Legions and twenty Anti-Matter Magicule Canon Batteries, and annihilate all those tribes. Leave none alive, use corpses to lure monsters there, so we can annihilate them in one scoop later."
I commanded in a firm voice.
During the last days, final adjustments to the Anti-Matter Magicule Canon Batteries were finished, and I already ordered manufacturing them. As the portal was constantly being opened, I could have a stable flow of crucial resources or reinforcements from home. Yesterday, Anti-Matter Magicule Canon Batteries arrived.
They looked like I remember them with their futuristic design. Forty of them were immediately mounted on the Fortress Gremory, which was actually the official name of the fortress. Leaving me with sixty Anti-Matter Magicule Canon Batteries that could be used in the field. Each of them had firepower comparable to Tactical-Tier Spell, meaning destruction from Town to City Level.
In this conquest, it is annihilation. I don't need survivors, especially no some human barbarians or goblinoids. I need an entire plane to be empty, as I planned to mine even core. Mining core of the plane, wasn't something heard of in the Draconic Deus as it would lead to the destruction of the plane, but in my previous life, the Solar Federation was mining cores of Stars or Planets rather often as they were massive sources of energy that could be used in creating special weaponry or devices.
The entire southern area was controlled by these human tribes, who were barely able to survive raids of the goblinoid tribes from the north, but thanks to the territory advantage, especially the valley that was the only available route from north to south, human barbarians were able barely to survive their aggressive and brutal attacks.
Soon after Generals Amyke and Borke Zagan bowed and left the war room to go and organize legions, while Venelana still remained there.
"I know Vena, that to you, it may sound to slaughter everyone from infants to old people, but alas, this is how wider works. Those with bigger fist rules, and now were are ones with the bigger fist... and to keep this advantage, we need to do everything in our power. Even if it means committing atrocities on weaker and innocent."
I said to her in a cold voice. I personally didn't care even if billions or trillions of innocent die, for me they were just numbers, I would gladly kill even for the life of a single devil. Probably this was the moment when I finally realized that even with my memories, I was now devil through and through.
In my past, during the Stellar Exodus, similar scenarios were common. Races were being slaughtered and annihilated by Solar Federation for the greater good of humanity if they were deemed a threat, after the militarization of the Federation.
I went to Venelana and kissed her gently on her forehead.
"You don't need to have mercy with anything that isn't our ally. Remember that well, they are either with us or against us, nothing else and nothing more. Those who stand with us or serve us shall be rewarded, those who stand neutral needs to make choice where to stand, and those who stand against us shall be annihilated to the last person."
I said gently as she nodded her head and departed as well, while Mephisto Pheles gave me a weird look.
"You have more in yourself from Satan Lucifer and first Gremory than you can imagine."
Said he silently, before he left the room.
"Possibly yes... probably."
