Chapter 91 - Orden...
"Good, it wasn't that hard."
Answered Grayfia in her usual stoic expression, as I nodded.
"Then thank you for your work, and now if you excuse me."
I said as I left for my chambers.
Meanwhile, all around the Draconic Deus, a huge storm was brewing order in all factions and pantheons.
News about what happened at Helheim leaked even sooner than one would expect, as immediately, after Zeoticus and Hela left, Laufey and Surtr started a brutal offensive against Asgardian Royal Army, and hundreds of thousands were killed within several days.
On top of that, King of Dark Elves Malekith crawled out of shadows and assassinated countless prominent people in Odin's kingdom with his Dark Elven assassins, throwing them in chaos.
At Celestial Court's inner palace, a handsome young man, with long flowing red hair with uplifted dark red bangs was sitting cross-legged as he was meditating. He had a third eye on his forehead that was also closed.
He wore a heavily stylized three-piece suit-type outfit consisting of a black waistcoat over an untucked collared white shirt, an orange cravat and magenta-colored trousers tucked into light brown boots. The most distinguishing feature of the outfit is the stylized high-collared robe jacket with a length that falls to the wearer's shins: the upper part and shoulders of the robe jacket are dark-colored, the rest being a teal color and the robe jacket's trimmings are gold-colored; on each shoulder is a large gold-colored Ω-symbol, on each outer forearm are three gold-colored strips of fabric and the robe jacket ends in large white cuffs. The outfit is finished with white gloves.
"My Emperor, the information is verified."
Said voice belonging to a man who knelt on the floor before meditating man, as he disappeared soon after relaying the message.
When the servant left, the red-haired man opened his eyes, his right eye had the Ω symbol in it, while his left eye had the α symbol in it.
"Another transmigrator appeared? Very talented in magic and skilled... could be a great addition to the Orden. Should I invite him?"
Muttered the man, as he took something out of his pocket, which looked like a card.
It was one of the 22 Major Arcana Cards, The Fool Card.
"Let, Mercurius decide."
He muttered as he threw the card high in the air, and soon the card started shining in the bright light as gray fog surrounded the card.
"I see, why have you chose to ask me, Deus Ex Machina. Indeed this one is interesting as is fate around him. Test him, if he passes he will be a great addition to the Orden. Our organization will grow once more."
Said a voice from the gray fog.
"Have you found somebody suitable, Mercurius?"
Asked Deus Ex Machina.
"Indeed. In one of those cultivation Universes you came from, an extremely mighty cultivator, that is worthy, and I already delivered invitation. Additionally, Kaziklu Bey found someone, which is funny, the person he found is an ordinary mortal with a bit of Chakra barely able to contend against Starry Sky Warlocks or Senior Arcanists of Astral Boundary, but has enormous potential, especially her intelligence and scheming abilities are really something to behold."
Answered Mercurius.
"Also Christof Lohengrin chose to invite a person."
Said Mercurius after a short time of thought.
"Who?"
Asked Deus Ex Machina with a surprised voice.
"Someone who bears the title of Almighty and has extremely powerful precognition abilities."
Answered the Mercurius.
"Your agenda is sure interesting, Mercurius. I wonder when the time comes, how many of us will sit up there."
Said, Deus Ex Machina.
"Possibly all. Things are moving and only several Eras are remaining. Top experts, factions, and Empires and Dynasties are expanding like crazy, and ancient experts are slowly awakening from their sleep while creating alliances and hidden organization like we do."
Answered Mercurius, while Deus Ex Machina nodded in agreement.
"Also, where is Rot Spinne? I haven't heard about him, even before using Samsara Rebirth Technique several Eras Ago?"
One Era was approximately 10,081 years.
"Don't know... he disappeared once more, probably went to other Universe. He is a traveler, and our messenger may find some great addition to the Orden. When it starts, it will be good to reduce the number of Universes by a great amount."
Answered Mercurius.
"Do you think your Astral Boundary is ready?"
Asked Deus Ex Machina.
"No. While it isn't weak either, it isn't that strong, but for that reason Orden was created, at least partially, to gather similar-minded people. Additionally, this is what it makes even more interesting Deus Ex Machina."
Said Mercurius as he laughed.
"Only you can take extermination of Universe as a game, Mercurius. If you are unlucky and got invaded first by a strong universe you would be in trouble. Especially those where cultivation is practiced, like mine, they are very strong for the current Astral Boundary. Many of them have even Thrones."
Explained Deus Ex Machina.
"I am aware of it, for that we need to take initiative and use Universe Stairs to invade and assimilate Universes with lesser Energy Density to become nutrients for the Astral Boundary Universe. From what I have seen, most of the factions are already preparing for the greatest war of all times."
Said Mercurius.
"Also, when will you return to your true body Deus Ex Machina?"
Asked Mercurius after a short time.
"Soon, soon the cultivation of Samsara Rebirth Technique will be complete."
Answered Deus Ex Machina.
"Oh, and take this. Give it to the new recruit as a test. The Card will do the rest."
Said Mercurius as another Major Arcana Card appeared out of the grey fog.
The Devil Arcana.
Chapter 92 - How to process corpses of Gods...
At the same time, Lord Gerstahl Lucifuge was relying upon a message to Lucifer about events that transpired in the Helheim.
Hearing this, Lucifer's mood turned unusually good, hearing all of that. With the addition of Hela's army to the Underworld, he was even more confident to crush Heaven and Grigori to the ground. Completely unaware by plots and schemes for his death by his own blood.
"Send out the Decree that I rise noble rank of Zeoticus Lucifer to the Grand Duke for his merits in securing such enormous help for devil kind in the war against our eternal enemies."
Siad Lucifer with a commanding voice.
One day later, as I was relaxing in my gardens, I received a decree from Lucifer that I have been promoted to the Grand Duke Noble Rank.
This was good, as now, I was socially one of the highest-ranking nobles in the entire Underworld. I planned to be promoted to at least King Rank before the war starts. After I reach Satan-Class and secure assistance from Takagahamara in wiping out Church from Japan, I can predict that Lucifer would promote my rank once more.
That would be for best, as then I would be automatically placed as one of the military leaders of the Great War on the devil side, or I could make my own army and be completely independent of the chain of command, like Great King Bael.
Now, before I planned to take Vena on a date to Agreas, I decided to make use of Divine Sparks and corpsed of Lesser Gods that I have obtained on my trip, or killing spree in the Helheim.
As usual, I planned to brew potion out of the body parts of the gods. While my Alchemy skills weren't that bad, they were pathetic compared to the real Alchemy that was practiced in the Astral Boundary.
Fortunately, alchemical knowledge available at the Draconic Deus was fortunate enough to utilize approximately 80% to 90% potential from the corpses of Lesser Gods. I was using only six of those corpses, as the other six were reserved for Hela.
Fortunately, the corpse of Vidal could be processed separately into several potions, as it was too potent, compared to Lesser Weak Gods.
Potions refined from corpses of these Lesser Weak Gods would tremendously improve my physique, as the Divine Path of God was well known for balance between physical strength and energy reserves. Every power system has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Divine Sparks of the Gods, could be used for other people to ascend or be used in various rituals or weapon refinement.
I planned to use half of the Divine Sparks I have obtained, in ritual to combine it with a potion. I calculated it should strengthen my physique to the pinnacle of the Ultimate-Class. Of course, if somebody who was specialized in physique and was the so-called body cultivator, could reach a much higher level than me from this procedure.
In truth what I was doing, was considered as extravagant mad wasting of resources in Astral Boundary. Nobody would waste six corpses of Lesser Weak Gods and their Divine Sparks to strengthen their physique. Only a very few factions could do something like this.
Similarly, Vidal's corpse and Divine Spark would be used in the same way, in the hope to strengthen my physique to Satan-Class. After that, I would be considered as one of the top powerhouses in the Draconic Deus, and by Astral Boundary's standards, I would be a heaven-defying genius.
As I reached such a level of power, just within 200 years, which was a very short time. And in reality, it was only ten years or so from my transmigration.
I started preparing my potion ingredients which were corpses of the Lesser Weak Gods. To prepare it, I instructed Architect to dissect them for crucial ingredients: Blood, Heart, and Bone Marrow. Every part of the god's body was brimming with energy and power, I could feel it with just a look.
Usually, Lesser Weak God has no problem killing Ultimate-Class powerhouse with ease, but thanks to my carefully planned trap, they all fell at the same time. Even Grade 7 Plane accordáing to the classification of the Astral Boundary has limit only 10 Gods...
I then dropped everything into the huge cauldron and activated a magical formation around it, for it to brew under immense heat. While I wasn't a very skilled Alchemist or Potion Brewer which was a sub-class of Alchemy, with the Architect's help, it was very easy for me to produce potions from zero knowledge.
Within the next ten hours, I have spent brewing the potion, adjusting the heat, or adding some additional ingredients like some Mid-Grade Energy Crystals, parts of Monsters, and other things to boost up the efficiency of the potion.
I was slowly preparing for the moment when I would enter the Astral Boundary, which was a real stage, not something like Dimensional Gap, which was a sealed space consisting of only a few tens of weak planes.
I have also decided, in the future, I should target planes where gods were abundant and hunt them for resources when I would be strong enough. Maybe even kill as many of the gods in Dimensional Gap, they would become my nutrients or for my followers and family.
Sadly, I cannot use Devour on the Divine Spark, as the Divine Energy is too contradicted to the Demonic Energy, and it would cause me serious injuries due to energy deviation.
Soon enough, the potion was finally finished, and I have obtained altogether four bottles of it.
"Hmm... I will use one on myself, two could go to Vena and Grayfia. They would be participating in the Great War, so it would be good for their strength to increase. Last one I will give to Hela. I need to have her on my side, as her soldiers are currently the majority of my army."
I said to myself.
Chapter 93 - Promotion
Venelana and Grayfia were both my fianceés and besides that, also my closest allies I had. For them to become strong was also meaning, I would become stronger.
I could say, that I probably loved Venelana, as her cheerful personality made my day better when she came for visit.
In truth, I didn't care too much about them, as I could always hunt for some gods and make more. For now increasing my strength, in every way, was my top priority.
I then took six Divine Sparks and started preparing the spell formation. With my deep knowledge of Arcane, I had it prepared within a short one hour. Afterward, I gulped down the God Corpse Potion in one go and activated a magical circle powered up by six Divine Sparks.
As I drank the potion, I felt overwhelming energy enter my body from the potion. Second wave energy entered my body from the magical formation, as I felt every cell in my body being strengthened repeatedly.
The entire process took several hours, as I completely drained energy from six Divine Sparks until they turned to nothingness.
After it was finished, and the entire God Corpse Potion was finally digested, I felt wonderful. My physical body was brimming with power, such much power.
"Architect scan."
[Class: Ultimate
Demonic Energy: 263
Strength: 290
Agility: 285
Vitality: 294]
"Hmm... in numerical values, my physique is even stronger than my energy reserves. After getting into Satan-Class with help of God Corpse Potion brewed from Vidal's corpse and Divine Spark, then my progress in strengthening my physique should stop, until I reach Apocalypse-Class or obtain corpses and Divine Sparks of Greater Gods. Resources of Dimensional Gap are greatly limited in that regard."
I muttered.
I planned to have a balance between my energy reserves and physique. I believed in using every advantage I had. Unfortunately for me, strengthening my physique to Apocalypse Class would be impossible with resources available in Dimensional Gap.
Apocalypse-Class was starting point for true experts, as only from then you can be considered a true expert in Astral Boundary. Everything under that level is only cannon fodder. Of course, compared to mighty beings of Law, everything is meaningless.
After I finished my ritual, I decided to call Venelana for the date I have promised her, to taker her on a date to the city of Agreas.
Before I could do anything, one of the butlers came and notified me that, a Decree from Lucifer has arrived. In truth, I was wondering what it was.
After I got into the meeting hall, where a messenger from Lucifaad was already waiting with the decree in his hands.
I just heard what he had to say and to be honest I was pretty surprised hearing it. It seemed that for my merits, basically getting Hela and her armies, I was promoted to the Grand Duke and was awarded additional territories and more authority in the Underworldld.
This was pretty good. The higher my noble rank before the Great War was, the better.
With more territory, I could recruit more soldiers and build a stronger army. Additionally, with this promotion, I also got a new Ultimate-Class general in my army, altogether I had now 16 Ultimate-Class powerhouses under me, though ten of them were Aesir and Vanir.
Now that I was promoted, it was guaranteed that I would be one of the main army commanders during the Great War... another perfect way to dispose of my political opponents or people that would dare to threaten my plans for unification.
After sending the messenger away, I decided to call Venelana for the promised date in Agreas. One hour later Venelana arrived through the teleportation circle.
"Hello, Vena."
I greeted her, with a slight bow.
"Hello, Zeo."
Said Venelana cheerfully.
"Wait for me a bit, I must get some things before we depart."
I said as I left for a moment.
Meanwhile, Venelana was waiting for her fianceé, and soon another person appeared.
"Oh my, isn't it Lady Bael?"
Asked a cold female voice.
"Lady Lucifuge, you are here too?"
Asked Venelana back with a sweet smile.
"Indeed, I was appointed by Zeoticus as Castellan of Fuerig."
Answered Grayfia with a predatory smile, to which Venelana grimaced as something sparked between those two.
"Indeed such menial task is certainly fit for you."
Siad Venelana sweetly as Grayfia's eyebrows twitched a little.
"I must agree, not everyone is capable enough to be entrusted with such responsibility."
Said Grayfia.
"Such is the truth... very fit for an emotionless person like you."
After several minutes I have finally returned and saw that Venelana and Grayfia were talking to each other happily, or it seemed at least like that.
"My Ladies. Vena we can go. Grayfia please go and send a message to Hela that the first part is ready."
I said, as I cast teleportation circle and we have transported away.
After Zeoticus left with Venelana, Grayfia grimaced, as she muttered.
"This round I have lost, but wait for the next time."
Chapter 94 - Date at Agreas (1)
I must admit that Agreas is a very beautiful city. It was a large city located in the Agares Territory but was maintained by forces of Four Great Satans exclusively.
It served as the second capital of the Devil Race, and most importantly, it was where most of the scientific breakthroughs were made. I wonder if they already started researching the Agreas Crystals, which would later become prime material for the creation of Evil Pieces.
To get into the city, wasn't an easy feat, as mostly only nobility was allowed into the city and many of them after the strict screening. For me, as I was officially from the Lucifer Clan, I got a free pass.
'Those four madmen, are really paranoid... they must have already started creating the Malebranche, and maybe they have already finished them. Still... from my knowledge, they must have used something else in the forging and creation process, as only crystals of Agreas alone are not enough.'
I thought in my head.
"Where do you want to go first, Vena?"
I asked her as I looked around the beautiful architecture of the flying city.
"We could go to the restaurant first."
Said Vena with a charming smile, as I held her hand, and we walked to the most luxurious restaurant that was on Agreas.
I book the entire top floor of the restaurant, which was usually reserved for the most prominent guests. We were led there by water and sat down at the table, with the most beautiful view.
We sat down, and both of us ordered some food.
I personally chose my favorite, the dragon steak. This one came from an evil dragon from Three Realms, a real exclusivity. A price for one steak was enough to buy pretty good armor, weapon, and some supportive things.
Vena chose to eat dragon fish, exported from the rivers of Takagahamara.
As we were waiting for the food to arrive, I took out the God Corpse Potion and gave it to Vena.
"This is potion I refined from corpses of Gods I killed in Helheim. It is called God Corpse Potion and it has an enormous effect on physique, it could easily strengthen your physique to later stages of Ultimate-Class."
I said to her while giving her the potion. Vena was just High-Class in terms of physique, which was pretty imposant. Old man, Zekram must have spent many precious resources on her, as Vena was strengthening her physique in a similar way to me, by the usage of treasures and magic.
Vena was shocked seeing the potion, and probably even more that I gave it to her, just like that. This could be considered as one of the top-grade treasures in the Dimensional Gap due to its limited resources and even in the vast Astral Boundary Universe, it would be considered a precious thing.
"I... thank you."
Said she with a smile, as she held the potion.
Another reason why I gave it to her, I wished for Vena to become Satan-Class before the Great War. If she did, she would be automatically be placed as a commander on one of the frontlines and could help me with enacting my plans.
After the food was served, we have talked about some mischievous things, I talked mainly about my trip to Helheim and my encounter with Hela, and fight with the Gods of Asgard. When I mentioned Hela, if felt air change around Vena a bit, but I think it was just my imagination.
"Oh and I for prompted to the Grand Duke by Lucifer, today."
I said to Vena as I finished talking about my trip to the Helheim.
"That is really good news."
Said Vena sweetly.
"When you are departing for the Takagahamara?"
She asked me after a short time.
"I will try to reach Satan-Class before that, as I am very close to reaching that Class."
I said.
With the knowledge I got from Hela about the Astral Boundary, I found out that the ranking system was different there and here in the Gap, it was due to Dimensional Gap was severed for a long time from the Universe, so it started developing as Secret Realm to a different direction.
Satan-Class was the same as Bright World Warlock in Warlock Cultivation System or Level 3 Legendary Arcanist in Arcane System.
From the information I got from Hela, the devil ranking system was like some weird combination of Warlock Cultivation System and Arcane System.
To reach Super-Devil Class only thing that devils needed was time, energy and aptitude, and nothing else. This was pretty similar to the Warlock Cultivation System. But, from then on, there was one huge barrier to reach Apocalypse-Class, which was to comprehend the Law.
This was on the other hand very similar to the Arcane System of Arcanists.
So theoretically, if Underworld had ten times that of energy density, then devils would get stronger much faster and we could become more powerful. Thought the path after the Super-Devil Class, is like an enormous mountain that is almost impossible to conquer.
When I started researching this topic, I also ordered Architect to look at another thing... something which was in my mind for a very very long time, unexplained and only now, after getting knowledge from the Astral Boundary it finally gave an answer.
Clan Traits of Devils.
They weren't just Clan Traits...
They were the path to the comprehension of Law and breaking through to become a real powerhouse in the Astral Boundary.
After that, I realized something... this isn't something Lucifer could do. Someone born in Dimensional Gap doesn't have such ability.
So the only logical answer was... The Book of Lucifer wasn't really his own creation, but rather an artifact that fell to the Draconic Deus a long, long time ago and was found by Lucifer. Based on the Book of Lucifer, he formerly known as Luciel changed his name and turned himself to Devil.
Such was the truth of the original.
Chapter 95 - Date at Agreas (2)
Not that like something of that mattered, but I would like to extract his memory and see his secrets.
The fact he gave me the Book of Lucifer, means he himself isn't completely aware of its value or he is playing some dangerous game with me as a pawn. Whenever the truth is, one is certain, and that is, the Lucifer must die.
Now I was very curious to explore more of the Book of Lucifer, but alas, I didn't dare to do it while he was alive. If it was a trap, then maybe he gave me the book in hopes, I would be able to unlock its secrets, and when I am no longer useful he could kill me or whatever... but it won't end well for me.
"Zeo? Helloooo..."
I heard before waking from my thinking trance-like state.
"Oh, sorry. I was a bit caught in my thoughts."
I said as Venelana pouted a little.
"About what exactly?"
Asked she.
"About that how beautiful are you today."
I said with a smile.
I didn't want to talk about certain things as it was not appropriate for now.
After we have finished eating, we went for a walk around Agreas City. As the city was accessible for members of the nobility, it was rather empty, despite its size and beautiful environment.
Several days earlier, Bael Castle
Venelana was walking through the halls of the Bael Castle while searching for her mother to have a talk with her.
As usual, she found her at the gardens, relaxing in there... something done by most noble ladies of almost none of them wished to do something.
"Hello, mother."
Greeted her Venelana. Her mother looked like her older version, with a bigger chest and longer hair.
"What is bringing you here my darling daughter?"
Asked Lady Bael with a gentle smile.
"I just want to talk about something with you."
Said Venelana rather nervously.
"Then come and sit here..."
As Venelana sat down, a servant came and served her tea.
"So what is bothering you?"
Asked Lady Bael with a kind smile.
Afterward, Venelana started narrating her own problems as her mother attentively listened to her daughter's troubles.
"So the young Lucifuge is your competitor?"
Asked Lady Bael curiously.
"Yes, that ice witch."
Said Venelana with anger, as she met with Grayfia after her engagement to her own fianceé was announced by Lucifer, and they didn't start with a good impression.
"Hmm... I think I know what you need to do... from what have you told me, you need to take initiative as your fianceé is probably dense as brick or too focused on his own things to notice your female signals, or maybe both of them. Right now, you may have an advantage, but that can change as Grayfia is Lucifuge and she is way closer to Lucifer than Bael can be... so you need to do this..."
Said Lady Bael as she whispered the last parts of the sentence to her daughter, as Venelana turned bright red in a matter of seconds.
"Are you sure it will work?"
Asked Venelana nervously.
"Do you want for Grayfia to win? The moment she realizes that Zeoticus is too engrossed in his research and development of his territory, she will make move and you will lose your dominant position. Even now, you are at a disadvantage as she has a special bond with him as Lucifer and Lucifuge, if you are slow, then the gap will only widen."
Said seriously Lady Bael, as she saw the fire ignite in Venelana's eyes.
It was just another game for power, or race for power. When they get married, it will be decided who will be the main wife, or rather who will have the most authority after the Lord of the House. And Venelana didn't want to fall behind her rival Grayfia.
After some time of thinking about it, she nodded her head in agreement.
Back to present
I was rather enjoying this date a the Agreas. Venelana was pressing her chest on my right hand, which was a very nice feeling, but at the same time as I was enjoying this, I was also thinking about how to get my hands on some crystals of Agreas.
I doubt if I ask Lucifer he would give me some of them, so I chose to steal them. At the end of the Great War, everything will belong to me, so I am just taking something that is mine in advance.
As I was thinking about how to steal the crystals of Agreas, I noticed that Venelana stood in front of me, and suddenly she kissed me.
At first, I was in a state of deep shock about what was happening, but soon I have returned her kiss with an even bigger passion.
After we have separated, I only heard a weak whisper from her, as she took my hand and led me to the nearest hotel.
Chapter 96 - Satan-Class (1)
Several days later
Currently, I was preparing for my advancement to the Satan-Class. I already felt that my energy reserves were nearing the limit, they could hold up, as I received a benefit from strengthening my physique to the later stages of the Ultimate-Class, as my energy reserves kept expanding.
Reaching Satan-Class is would be a great milestone for me. To be complete, I planned to strengthen my physique to the Satan-Class before I reached it in terms of energy reserves. If I did it that way, I could probably get more from the High-Grade Demonic Energy Magic Stone.
I would awaken another part of my True Name, and I wonder what benefit it will bring me. Awakening ability with every part of True Name wasn't something normal, as it was considered super rare.
My name 'Dizmason' strengthened my Innate Talent for Magic, from average to the top-notch genius level, which allowed me more easily comprehend spells, cast them with lesser energy consumption, and many others.
At first, I refined the potion from Vidal's corpse. Now I would be drawing magical formation around the place, where I could refine the potion, and strengthen my physique with it, and also, use Divine Spark of Vidal in the process.
After I returned from the rendezvous night with Venelana, It seemed like Grayfia noticed something different about me, but didn't say anything besides frowning heavily. I gave her one of the God Corpse Potions, as it would greatly elevate her abilities before the Great War happens.
So the first thing, I gulped down the potion made from Vidal's corpse and activated the magical formation with Vidal's Divine Spark in the middle.
This time, albeit it was a bit different, as Grayfia was there, to support the formation and control the spell, as the energy that was being released from it, was rather overwhelming, and it easily damages the castle or even causes some serious injuries.
I explained to her how the spell worked, and with her natural affinity with magic and experiences, she quickly caught on and was able to control the magical formation rather fast.
While I experienced this feeling once and would probably several times more in the future, it still hurt like hell.
This time, I felt like my entire body was being ripped apart, as an overwhelming amount of energy was being released from the potion I was digesting, and at the same time, an even bigger amount of energy was directed by the spell formation to my body.
Fortunately, Grayfia was able to narrate the flow energy aptly, so I didn't suffer any kind of injuries due to it.
As I grit my teeth, the process was very fast, as it was constantly breaking down my cells and rebuilding them anew, stronger and brimming with vitality.
As the time flew, and hours passed by, I felt that my body was getting stronger and stronger. As the process was nearing its end, I felt that I could take Vidal with my physical abilities alone, and not die several seconds later.
While I wasn't any close-combat fighter, I can at least take beings with terrifying physique head-on and not die, or at least escape. There are countless experts out there, and countless ways to nullify magic power, or any kind of energy, that was why I was so adamant about strengthening my physique at any cost.
'Architect scan my body.'
I said to my MTC A.I. as I laid down on the ground and saw Grayfia approaching me with worry in her eyes.
[Class: Ultimate
Demonic Energy: 298
Strength: 451
Agility: 462
Vitality: 450]
'Damm... such rapid advancement... I will need to stop for several decades maybe even a century, as I have strengthened my body by an extreme amount in such a short time. It is a wonder, I didn't suffer any kind of backslash...'
I thought in my head.
During past years, I have brought my physique from pathetic Low-Class to Middle-Class standards to terrifying Satan-Class. In terms of Astral Boundary major cultivation systems, it would be possible, but nobody would waste so many precious resources on strengthening the body so much.
Additionally, it could cause you to suffer serious hidden injuries or something, but alas, I think I was lucky.
I noticed that my Class was still listed as Ultimate-Class, which wasn't entirely wrong, as Class was mainly based on energy reserves, even by standards of the Astral Boundary.
"Are you alright Zeoticus? You look like you are going to die by any minute..."
Asked the worried Grayfia that came to me, to check up on my state.
"It is okay... just my body tired... I feel like I have been runner over by behemoth."
I said jokingly, as Grayfia giggled a bit. It was nice to see, usually, she had such a strict expression all the time. Getting any other reaction from her was considered a win.
"You are really crazy... I have never seen anybody to undergo anything similar to you."
Said Grayfia with a surprised face as she observed me.
"It may be possible, but now I can say, that I can fight head-on with someone like Vidal, and escape with just some injuries. Of course, if you add my magic to mix, then probably I would be able to kill some weaker to average Intermediate Gods within ten minutes."
I said with a confident voice.
While I wasn't a close-combat fighter, now that my physique was elementary of Satan-Class, but coupled with my spells and Clan Trait, I could deal with such opponents, despite my energy reserves being just at the peak of Ultimate-Class.
When I advance to Satan-Class in terms of Class, then, probably someone like Vidal wouldn't last before me too long...
"Just be careful, don't underestimate your opponents just because you have strengthened your body to a terrifying level."
Said Grayfia, but rather it seemed like a teacher lecturing a young child that said something stupid.
I knew it was her way of showing her concern for me.
Chapter 97 - Satan-Class (2)
"I know, but thanks for your concern."
I answered as Grayfia looked indifferent, but I knew that she was satisfied with herself, about an accomplished goal, which was to scold me and acknowledge that she was right.
"What are you going to do now?"
Asked me.
"Rest, if you want I can help you digest God Corpse Potion more easily, with magical formation."
I proposed.
Usually, to digest and refine such things as God Corpse Potion that was brewed to strengthen the physique of the user, there was one most effective way, and that was physical training. Something I was not fond of and didn't have enough time for.
The second way was just to let it be refined naturally, but that could take even several months, based on the potency of the potion.
And finally, there was a third way, something I used, and that was magical formation to help you refine the potion and its effect. Aside from the Divine Sparks, the spell I intended to use for Grayfia was almost the same I have used for myself.
"Later after we deal with your things."
Said Grayfia stoically.
"Okey."
Afterward, I have spent several hours recuperating and resting, to be in pristine condition, as I felt that my energy reserves were nearing the limit, and soon next metamorphosis will happen.
Devils didn't usually reach the next Class through metamorphosis, which was similar to cultivation breakthrough to higher realms in cultivator universes.
Reaching higher Class through metamorphosis happened only to Devils who were expanding and training their energy reserves to reach higher class. While ordinary devils, who didn't train, will reach higher class naturally.
The only difference was several centuries plus-minus, depending on your innate talent and luck. Still, most devils could reach the High-Class without any problems within several centuries just by doing nothing.
While most devils with noble bloodlines, could reach Class I have termed as Grand-Class, which was corresponding to stage between High-Class and Ultimate-Class, that existed in the Astral Boundary but was missing in the Dimensional Gap, due to messed up Laws. Grand-Class corresponded to the Starry Sky Warlock in Warlock Cultivation System.
Those more talented, could training and reach Ultimate-Class or Satan-Class if they were lucky or trained hard enough. Of course, there existed other ways, like magical rituals, potions, treasures, and other ways.
While this wasn't bad, there existed even more terrifying lifeforms in the many Universes. And everything below Ultimate-Class was nothing more than just glorified cannon fodder in huge wars across Astral Boundary or other places.
When I was already at my full energy and rested enough, I started preparing a magical formation that will help me absorb the High-Grade Demonic Energy Magic Stone.
High-Grade Magic Stones were precious even in the Astral Boundary, not that much, but they were the currency used by upper-tier experts. Here in the Dimensional Gap, even one High-Grade Magic Stone was a peerless treasure and priceless thing.
As I held it in my hand, I was even more suspicious about Lucifer and what he intended to do...
I placed it in the eye of the formation and activated the spell matrix.
[Architect, start the protocol.]
I commanded in my head.
[Acknowledged.]
He answered as the spell matrix started.
Enormous magical formation started glowing with blinding light, as countless magic circles appeared around me, as a tremendous amount of Demonic Energy was now being directed to my body, from the High-Grade Demonic Energy Magic Stone and abundant magic of the Underworld.
The process was very similar to what when I have reached the Ultimate-Class, at first my overall energy reserved started getting smaller by lightning speed, as the energy inside my body was being refined, fused, purified, and once again, this happened all over, unit the density and purity of my Demonic Energy didn't reach astonishing level.
Afterward, my energy reserves started slowly rising. Soon enough, it reached 100, then 200, then after another ten minutes it broke through the number 300 and kept rising to 400, and soon 500. To my surprise, it didn't stop there and kept climbing to 550, 575, 600...
601
620
621
622
623
624
It then stabilized at the number 624. Shortly after I felt the Will of the Underworld descend upon me, as my entire body froze.
'Savant'
'Savant'
'Savant'
Said now familiar creepy voice in my head belonging to the Will of the Underworld.
'Prideguard - When in the Underworld, no physical or energy attack done by any one of the similar or same alignment as the bearer of this name, that is weaker than bearer, cannot do any harm. For thou who are stronger than the bearer, the effect would be lowered appropriately.'
Said the voice as it soon disappeared.
I studied the effect of the new part of my True Name that was gifted me by the Underworld and it was terrifying. Basically, as long as I am attacked in the Underworld, by someone who is weaker than me, and is of the same alignment, meaning Devil or has Darkness / Shadow or any other similar element, I am basically immune to such attacks.
Of course, if Devil attacks me, that is stronger than me, the effect of their attack would be just weakened by the Prideguard. This was why it was of utmost importance to guard the True Name. One mistake, and your strongest side, will be your weakest.
True Names given by the Will of the Underworld itself are really terrifying and are the greatest secret of any devil. For example, if an attacker knew my True Name 'Savant' then the effect of the Prideguard for such attacker, would be null.
On top of such wonderful True Name, the only shame is that it will work only on being of Dark Aligntemnet such as Devils, Demons, Pale Blood, Vampires, Werewolves, and similar and only when I am in the Underworld. Sadly, Fallen Angels are not included as they are not Dark, but rather Neutral due to the fact, they still possess Light.
'Architect, scan.'
Chapter 98 - Satan-Class (3)
[Name: Zeoticus Gremory von Lucifer
True Name: Dizmason (Devil Talent), Savant (Prideguard)
Race: Pure-Blooded Devil - Bloodline: Gremory, Lucifer
Occupation: Lord of House of Gremory, Grand Duke of Gremory
Age: 182
Class: Satan
Demonic Energy: 624
Strength: 451
Agility: 462
Vitality: 450
Clan Trait:
Dark Light - Master (Gate of Babylon Style, Truth-Seeking Orb Style)
The Devour - Adept
Magic Systems:
Tier Magic - Master
Devil Magic - Master
Norse Runic Magic - Master
Abyssal Runic Magic - Master
Human Magic - Grandmaster
Masteries:
Scythe - Expert]
As I looked over it, I was strong as hell. Currently, I could be considered as one of the best powerhouses across the Draconic Deus. What was even more terrifying, was that I didn't reach even the peak of the Satan-Class, but I could already kill someone like that with ease.
Currently, there were only a very few Satan-Class combatants in the Underworld, but not only here but rather across entire Draconic Deus. In the end, this was a desolate place, with low energy density and a small number of resources.
Fortunately, I didn't now need to fear many things right now. During my trip to the Takagahamara, I would have another advantage during the negotiations and that was my personal strength.
Now there was a lot of work to be done, mainly to developed the next stage for the Tier Magic System, now I have reached the Satan-Class and that was something I have termed as the Ultra-Order Tier Magic.
On the other hand, now I have reached Satan-Class my progress would be much slower compared to that of the past. Now I can either depend on the most basic methods such as aging, but that was out of the question, I needed to advance quickly.
The secondary method was training till the exhaustion of energy reserves and let them expand naturally.
The third method was to search for Demonic Energy Magic Stones in the Underworld and use magic rituals to advance. This one was my personal favorite. This was also the most expensive method to use, as it would require a lot of Soul Coins, but I was rich so that was not much of a problem.
The only problem would be if I could find a mine of Demonic Energy Magic Stones that would be in the territory of other Pantheons.
'Once entire Underworld will belong to me...'
I thought in my head, as I continued to study the analysis of my body that Architect gave me.
I really needed to work on my Clan Trait Dark Light for it to improve even more. It was my strongest weapon, followed by the Tier Magic System. Hopefully, more devils would use this system instead of Devil Magic as it would greatly enhance their abilities.
"Hey Grayfia... how are your magic skills in other magic systems?"
I asked as I broke her out of her process of thoughts as she was thinking about something.
"If you want to ask me for my abilities with Tier Magic System you have invented, I could cast Tactical-Tier spells effortlessly, but I still struggle with Strategic-Tier spells."
She answered swiftly as my smile widened.
"Come I will help you properly cast Strategic-Tier Spells. In the future, your combat prowess will outshine all of those of the same Class."
I said.
Tier Magic System was pretty suitable for devils. I took the best components from Human Magic, Devil Magic, and Norse Runic Magic, in which I used Abyssal Runes and created my masterpiece.
Tier Magic System had the power of Runic Magic, and it wasn't that hard to perform as Human Magic and was more stable. While it lacked versatility, it had so much firepower, that some versatility lack was quickly forgotten by its users.
After I have returned from the Helheim, I already got some new spells that magicians of the devil race invented.
This was also one of the reasons, why I have released it to the public so quickly.
Devils who depended on magic as their main form of combat would surely try learning Tier Magic System, and when they discovered it is superior to Devil Magic, they would experiment and create new spells.
According to the Agreement, I would get a copy of each spell every devil invented. So basically, some spellbook was delivered to my library every day, and even grimoires on Tier Magic were being delivered each week.
Spellbook usually contained instruction about one to five spells, but grimoire could have tens of them easily and was more detailed compared to the Spellbook.
"Thanks, it would be an honor to be taught personally with such genius."
Said Grayfia with sarcasm in her voice.
"Yes, it is, the priceless opportunity for what many would die."
I said.
And in a certain sense, it was the truth. I was the inventor of the entirely new magic system, something like Merlin was to human magicians when he created his own magic system based on calculations and controlling magical power.
Countless would beg to learn from me, but I didn't feel like teaching students... too lazy for that.
I have taught some bits to Venelana, Zekram, and some of my subordinates, and lately even Hela, and I have found out that I suck at teaching.
Probably the lack of patience with people who didn't understand everything on the first go.
Chapter 99 - Month Later, Spar with Hela (1)
One Month Later, Underworld, Gremory Territory, Castle Fuerig
I have spent one month familiarizing myself with the newly acquired power I have reached. At the Satan-Class I have so much power, that I needed to have some time to properly familiarize myself with it to use it properly.
While I have spent the past month training, my territory was steadily developing as all Hela's army was incorporated into my own army and people she brought from Asgard, were accommodated. Now I had one of the largest armies among the devil nobility.
I intended to enlarge my army even more before the Great War starts.
Meanwhile, as everything, this was happening in my territory, across the Draconic Deus another thing shook the waves.
Asgard has won the war against armies of Laufey, Surtr, and Malekith, from which Laufey was killed, Surtr severely injured and banished back to the Mushpelheim, while Malekith just escaped.
While it seemed like a victory for Asgard, in reality, they lost more than they have won. Apparently, the defection of Hela and her followers took a greater toll on Asgardian Army than I have initially thought, and Asgard began losing the war on all fronts.
Just one week after that, Ice Giants and Fire Creatures, along with Dark Elves in shadows, have managed to breach all fronts that Asgard was holding, mainly due to lack of soldiers, as more than a third of their army defected with Hela.
Soon enough they breached into the world of Asgard, and Odin was forced to deploy all of his hidden forces to combat ferocious Ice Giants and Fire Creatures under the leadership of Laufey and Surtr.
In the end, the big battle took place several miles away from the main capital of Asgard, and Odin was forced to activate his powers as God-King of Pantheon that pushed him into the realm of Mighty Stage God, as he killed Lauyfey and severely injured Surtr until all accommodated power dissipated.
Afterward, while Asgard won the war, they have lost the majority of their army, were left with devasted infrastructure among the Nine Worlds, and Odin immediately entered sleep, as his Divinity was cracked due to overusing the power of God-King.
Soon enough, the entire Asgard went into lockdown. At least what brought a smile to my face, was the fact, that Malekith assassinated all Chrisitan priests, nobles, and people of influence in the countries of Finland, Norway, and Sweden. I have a feeling that Loki had some hands in that, as he always petitioned war against other Pantheons.
What was bugging, the response of Heaven didn't come. Yahweh just closed his eyes... weird.
Today I had an appointment with Hela, as she recovered her Class and became Innate God through some weird ritual, which she used, to awaken Divinity upon her own. By her own words, she could advance by absorbing Dinivity of the same type from other gods.
She cannot use Faith Energy to advance her Class or to any other benefit of herself, which was the price for becoming Innate God. On the other side, she wasn't tied to any worlds, and could freely leave planes and travel through the endless myriad of worlds.
Hela was spending most of her time at my personal training yard, where she spent all of her free time. Today, as usual, she was swinging her Necrosword at my training yard.
'Architect scan her.'
I said.
[Name: Hela
Race: Innate God - Aesir/Vanir Hybrid
Class: Intermediate Divinity Stage
Divine Energy: 471
Magical Power: 654
Strength: 603
Agility: 565
Vitality: 590]
'Damm she is strong. She has two energy types, which is understandable, as Gods usually have magical power and Divine Energy at the same time. Her energy altogether is around twice of mine, and her physical abilities... damm... strong.'
"Can we start?"
I asked as I took out my scythe.
My spar with Hela, was already the fourth one, as we sparred once each week, several hours straight. It was mainly her idea, to help me master my scythe, as in her opinion I was sucking using a weapon, something I cannot disagree with as I am a magic caster, not a melee fighter.
Before I could barely react, I already could see several Necroswords being shot at me with tremendous speed, as I used my physical ability to dodge. During our spars, we had ruled, that no one would use spells to enhance himself or herself.
As I dodged that Necroswords Hela was already before me, swinging two of her Necroswords that she held in her hands, at my neck, as I used my scythe Rosenkreutz to block them, creating sparks in the air and minor shockwave through the air.
Fortunately, this entire yard was warded with the most potent wards and barriers I could produce, so we don't destroy the entire area.
In a split, a second, Hela flipped backward, while throwing two Necroswords at me, which I blocked with my scythe, and then I shot towards Hela, slashing at her with my scythe. Unfortunately, for me, she easily dodged my slash, and kicked me to my ribs, kicking me several tens of meters away.
I stood up, coughed some blood, as she didn't hold anything back in her kick, as I barely dodged an incoming attack from her.
Hela was ruthless during our spars, something I appreciated, as she make wonders for my lack of experiences. Even I could see that I was improving steadily in the close combat, and soon enough I would reach Mastery-rank mastery over the Scythe Mastery.
If this fight was being fought using magic, then even with her larger reserves, the situation would be reversed. Unfortunately, for now, I could only be a punching bag... fortunately, I have strengthened my physique to Satan-Class, it this would be much worse.
"You are getting better... this is good... you can now last longer during our spars."
Said Hela with delight as she looked at me and I felt bad for some reason.
Chapter 100 - Month Later, Spar with Hela (2)
In turn for Hela teaching me how to fight close-combat, I was helping her with her casting abilities. In truth, her abilities as a magician were messed up. She cast spells only by the usage of brute force, which used too much energy for her.
For example, an ordinary spell as Fireball for someone like her should be around 0,001 Units of Magical Power. But alas, for Hela who used brute force to force spells into existence, she wasted too much of her magical energy, and thus even a simple spell as that would cost her 1 Unit. It may not seem a lot but in another example.
For example, if I want to cast Strategic-Tier Spell, which was spells most commonly used by Satan-Class individuals, it would cost me around 10 Units, maybe 15 Units depending on the spell. That was due to my mastery of magic. If Hela cast Strategic-Tier spell, it would cost her around 50 Units according to Architect's calculations.
Regarding Ultra-Order Tier Spells, she would use nearly half of her reserves for single spells. I never understood why her magical knowledge was so poor, despite being half-Vanir and her mother being Frigga one of the best witches of Asgard currently.
And the answer I got was simple... she rather went to swing a sword and beat boys in spars when she was young, as reading magical tomes and studying runes was too boring for her.
So now, we were correcting that mistake, as I was teaching her Asgardian Magic System, Human Calculation Magic System, and basics of my Tier Magic System. Fortunately, she had rather a good aptitude towards learning magic and handling magical power, despite her crude way of doing so right now.
As I was thinking about something, another kick from Hela sent me flying backward, as I coughed blood.
"You really know how to hold back during spars..."
I said sarcastically, as barely was able to stand up, and Hela walked in front of me, with a satisfied smile.
The moment she was close enough and not giving me enough attention, I threw some dust into her eyes and used the blunt edge of my scythe to strike her stomach, while several seconds later, I kicked her once again, sending her away.
"While you Asgardians are really good warriors, we devils are despicable in the way we fight... this is why you lose, my dear."
I said as I held my scythe at her neck, and my right foot on her stomach, not allowing her to turn around as she coughed blood.
Asgardians were honorable warriors, and while Hela was warmonger and slaughterer, she still had something in her, that will not allow her to use similar methods as I used her to defeat her.
Deception and tricks were something devils had in blood.
I then cast several simple healing spells on Hela, to stop the internal bleeding I caused her, as I helped her to stand up.
"Sometimes your honor could become your grave."
I said to her seriously.
"I will try to keep that in mind."
Answered Hela with an angered expression she lost to a simple trick as that.
"How is army training going?"
I asked as we sat down.
"Pretty well, thank to the increased budget you gave me, I have enough resources to increase the strength of all soldiers to Middle-Class within next year. Also, orders from Alchemist Guilds across the Draconic Deus and Sects from Three Realms have been made and would arrive soon. With current resources available, I could probably create a standing army of 75 million, with ease. Standart Middle-Class."
Stated Hela, while I was deeply surprised.
Her effectiveness as a military commander was really something.
"When I return from the Takagahamara, I would go to the Yestera Plane to hunt for Monarch Level Monsters and Magical Beasts there as they are obstructing our way to the bottom of the ocean, and mining entire plane. Will you join?"
I asked.
I planned to take with me Crom Cruach and also Zekram promised his help in this matter. I needed to clean Yestera Plane out of them as soon as possible, so I can start mining on the bottom of the ocean.
"Of course... it will be a good opportunity to spill some blood."
Said Hela with a bloodthirsty grin over her face.
"Splendid."
There should be no more than twenty Monarch Level monsters in the Yestera, so with four of us, we could clear all of them within several weeks.
"Also take all available Generals they would take care of General Level monsters, I will also take Vena and Grayfia."
I also wanted for my subordinates to participate as they could deal with weaker monsters.
