Chapter 225 - 705 - 713

Offerings and Beast Spirits

Port Elias not only had the title of the Pearl of the Hail Continent, but also housed so many different races that even Leylin was left overwhelmed. That was not all; both sides of the busy road were filled with multiple shops, selling anything from the lowest quality armour and protective gear to the highest grade equipment such as high-grade sealing scrolls and other things. Everything one might need was present in these shops.

Based on Leylin's understanding, the beings in Purgatory World were of varying races, each relying on their physical bodies and bloodline specific innate abilities to battle. There was no need for them to train themselves; their bloodlines would increase their strength with the simple passage of time until they reached their peak.

Of all the systems, only two were used throughout the whole world: sacrificial offerings and beast spirits.

These offerings meant sacrificing something, or someone, to a certain dignitary. After obtaining their blessing, an inhabitant would have their power increased in some form, be it a pure boost to their strengths or mysterious new abilities.

The path of offerings was more like an exchange in Leylin's eyes. The natives would offer up items that were of value to their chosen dignitary, and in turn, they would these dignitaries help the natives increase their strength. Such methods were very similar to the gods in the World of Gods, while still being somewhat different.

Since he hadn't delved deeply into the subject, he couldn't be certain what exactly the difference was. Perhaps it had to do with the devotion that these beings held for their chosen dignitaries, but they did not request the beings to bring offerings every day or at fixed intervals. There were even some that could rely on their support even though they hadn't offered anything at the time; although there was the need to have offered something of extraordinary value to the dignitary prior to that. This was a distinct difference from the gods of the World of Gods.

'It looks like even power systems from the World of Gods were assimilated during ancient times, and those past rank 6 in the Purgatory World have made some changes to them…' Leylin touched his chin.

In this enormous universe, the Magus World and the World of Gods were like two extremes. They were the greatest in size and held the most powerful beings.

These two worlds had real information about existences up to rank 8 in power. The primordial entities deduced that only when one of the two managed to seize the other's resources and gain their laws, power systems, and their knowledge that they could advance to eternality, to rank 9.

This was what sparked the Ancient Magus War. Having already advanced to the peak of rank 8, there was nothing else that would attract the attention of the Magi in the myriad other worlds. Only the guidance and understanding necessary to reach rank 9 would ignite their desire to fight for it, no matter how slim the chance!

Of course, as these two worlds were about equal in power, the result was that both sides were severely crippled. The collective strength of the Magus World deteriorated greatly, and the World of Gods had gone so far as to completely seal itself.

It wasn't just these two worlds that were involved in the war, countless smaller and weaker worlds suffered from collateral damage as well. Their unique strength and advancement systems had been leaked, and through real battle experience the systems were refined to become more accessible.

The path of offerings was something Leylin believed was an evolution of the system of faith that the gods used. They removed the restrictions between gods and their followers, and turned it into a system of equivalent exchange. It was only after these changes that it fit the Purgatory World's circumstances.

After all, not every world's laws were suitable for the spread of religion.

As for the second common method, the path of beast spirits, Leylin had previously listened to some explanations about it from Geiger Dole.

As the Purgatory World was a home to various races, with numerous ferocious beasts and high-energy entities occupying it, some intellectual beings invented the concept of hunting these ferocious beasts and extracting their souls. After doing so, these would be sealed into the user's body, summoned during battles using certain techniques.

Since sealed beasts differed in strength, it created different ranks for these beast spirit masters. On top of that, when one's beast spirit magic reached a higher rank, the corresponding beast spirit masters would be able to seal even more spirits.

Ancient legends even spoke of a beast spirit master who had reached an unprecedented realm. He had sealed innumerable beast spirits at the level of Morning Star all over his body, and had enough power to destroy a whole continent!

The energy from the sealed spirits could even aid in the cultivation of a beast spirit master, allowing them to reach a higher rank faster.

"Offerings and beast spirits are the main power systems in Purgatory World," Leylin mumbled to himself, his eyes scanning for shops with related material.

These two strength systems could be considered the main paths to power of the sentient races in the Purgatory World. Looking at how vast the world was, it wouldn't be strange to find that smaller branch races had their own systems. Leylin wouldn't even be surprised if there were magic inheritances here.

With a long period of data collection, and adding on the current lightspeed thought process of Leylin's own brain, he'd learnt much of the common languages in the Purgatory World with the help of the A.I. Chip. At the very least, daily conversations were already no issue.

'Here it is,' he though soon after setting his sights on a shop that looked like a huge open clam. He then walked in.

He could sense a powerful aura pervading the shop, and given its location and the attitudes the pedestrians had towards it he reasoned that this shop would have something worthy of his attention.

'Welcome to my shop, revered Alabaster Devilsnake, descendant of the Dignitary Snake Dowager!' A voice sounded in Leylin's head the moment he entered the shop. It surprised him; although he was still using the Alabaster Devilsnake's bloodline to conceal himself, it was very rare for someone to have the ability to even notice that layer of concealment.

The shop owner clearly took him for a member of the Alabaster Devilsnake family, and sounded rather humble. After all, Alabaster Devilsnakes grew to rank 5 upon maturity. In addition to their being descendants of a dignitary, they had a very high status.

"Where are you?" Leylin surveyed the interior of the clam, which was just a white space with multi-coloured lights floating in the air.

Information appeared in Leylin's mind. This was not spiritual force, but an even more mysterious kind of communication.

[Beep! Detected soul force undulations coming through. Deny or accept?] At this moment, the A.I. Chip's prompt was transmitted.

Now, Leylin had found a lifeform that could use soul force directly.

"State your name!" Leylin's lips did not move, but mysterious soul force was sent out. There was even a chaotic luster in Leylin's eyes, which let him immediately discover the energy core located in the middle of the white space.

A green bundle of light was hidden within the layers of the void, with countless green soul force threads that linked it to the room.

"The customer was able to find my core?" At this moment, the information transmitted from the core held a trace of alarm. "Also, this energy is soul force?!" It was clearly shocked by Leylin's ability to use soul force and was extremely afraid.

"This is the first time I've seen someone do something as stupid as allowing others into their own body," Leylin placed his hands behind his back and began to browse the shop's items, occasionally using soul force to communicate with it.

"Don't you know that once someone who can use soul force discovers your soul core, they could destroy you in an instant?"

Once the words left his mouth, Leylin felt the whole place shudder, especially the core. It was then that a trembling soul appeared.

"Lord Alabaster Devilsnake, please forgive me!" A little white person came out of the core and grovelled at Leylin's feet.

"Don't worry, I'm just an ordinary customer," Leylin couldn't help but console this being after seeing it on the verge of fainting.

'Ordinary customer? Can ordinary customers use soul force? Do they posses such a terrifying aura of power?' The little person's thoughts were bitter, but it could only follow behind Leylin carefully.

"Though your methods can scare other races who don't know about the soul force system, this is still far too risky!" Leylin lectured it as he grabbed a blue bundle of light.

A roaring snarl was transmitted from the bundle of light. Through the blue screen, Leylin could faintly see a small and exquisite sea fish. Its mouth was like a sharp pike which shone with a little luster.

"This is the Golden Pike Trout. This beast spirit is very suitable for beginners seeking to become beast spirit masters!" Seeing Leylin seemingly interested in the beast spirit, the little person immediately went beside him and began to introduce the fish with a fawning expression on his face, "If my Lord likes it, I can…"

Suddenly, the thought that drawing in a person that could take control of his life and death had the little person apprehensive and in fear. Perhaps even if Leylin wanted to take everything in its shop for free, it would be forced to agree.

"No thank you! This sort of thing is useless to me." Leylin waved his arms.

"Do you have anything with a general introduction to the pah of offerings and beast spirit spells? The more detailed the better!"

"Yes, yes I do!" The little person smiled and waved his arms. Two tremendous red bundles of light flew over. The rays dissipated and revealed a cow horn bugle and a pink shell.

Leylin picked up the bugle horn and immediately received a prompt from the A.I. Chip.

[Discovered spiritual force data interface. Accept or deny?]

Evidently, the two items were like crystal spheres in the Magus World, acting as a medium to store information.

Transaction and Temporary Residence

'Accept!' With a thought the cow horn bugle in Leylin's hand was enveloped in a layer of light that slowly turned it to ashes.

Many images and words appeared in Leylin's mind, getting recorded and analysed by the A.I. Chip. Soon after, the same happened to the pink shell.

Two new documents were stored in the A.I. Chip after this process, making a look of satisfaction to appear on Leylin's face.

The little person, however, looked heartbrokenly at the pile of ashes. Gathering the complete set of information, as well as finding an expert to record it into a storage system, had taken a large amount of effort and wealth.

[Beep! New folders recorded: 'Path of Offerings' and 'Beast Spirit magic' (incomplete)] The A.I. Chip's prompt appeared. Leylin could understand the incompleteness, after all a tiny shop like this wouldn't normally have such profound information.

When he saw that the techniques led all the way to the Morning Star level, Leylin was slightly shocked. In the Magus World it was extremely rare to own a high-grade meditation technique with four complete layers. This was certainly the greatest treasure you could find within a small scale shop like this.

On the surface, however, Leylin still furrowed his brows in dissatisfaction. "This information seems to be incomplete…" he said, causing the little person to quiver in fear.

"My lord, my lord! These two sets of information were sent over from the Hail Continent. Both have been inspected by the Holy Land, and are most certainly complete. With these, one can cultivate to the Morning Star level. There's no doubt about it!" The little person exclaimed resolutely.

'Morning Star? It seems as though the Purgatory World follows the Magus World's ranking system.' Leylin nodded and asked, "Then how would I be able to get techniques above the Morning Star level?"

This question seemed to put the little person in a difficult spot, "My lord, there are various races with techniques above the Morning Star level, but these are considered absolute secrets. Even getting this set of information was quite risky."

The little person had spoken immediately upon seeing the grim look on Leylin's face, and he continued, "Wait, my lord, I know! You can definitely find something within the Holy City of the Hail Continent, which is also the city of the Snake Dowager's descendants. Furthermore, you belong to the Alabaster Devilsnake clan, so you'll make it inside without any problems."

'The Snake Dowager's Descendants? Holy City?' These names surprised Leylin. This was probably the Snake Dowager's base camp.

Though Leylin still needed more information, revealing his unfamiliarity with the Holy City would raise suspicions. Moreover, killing this little person to shut his mouth would attract guards and make things even more difficult.

"The Holy City is too far away. Are there no other methods?" Leylin's eyes narrowed as he sized up this little person in front of him.

"I'm sorry my lord, but there really are no other ways!" The little person had a suffering expression, and Leylin confirmed that he was telling the truth and did not pressure him any further.

Immediately after, Leylin proceeded to wipe the store clean. The little person's life was in Leylin's hand, so he could do nothing about it.

'Hm? A map of the continent? Though it doesn't seem to be very detailed, it will still prove useful…

'This should be the beast spirit of a Godric. So even souls of Morning Star beings can be collected? Though it's only in its infancy, this spirit can still be used.'

"I'll also take this, and this, and that," Leylin's insight allowed him to eliminate all the good things from the shop.

"My- My lord!" The little person called out in a sobbing tone. He felt desperate as he saw all his collection of treasures disappearing, and he secretly regretted letting Leylin even enter his shop.

Leylin found the little person's manner hilarious, "Who do you think I am? Do you really think I'd rob you and have you call for the garrison or the guards? After all, I know the rules of Port Elias well!"

Leylin's words frightened the little person even further, "Respected lord! This little one didn't mean to…"

"Alright, alright! I already told you I'd pay, so just take this," said Leylin as he threw a bag of pink pearls to the little person.

Neither magic crystals nor astral stones could be used as currency in the Purgatory World. Thus, Leylin wouldn't take them out and risk revealing himself.

Since the Purgatory World was not unified, there were all sorts of currencies and measuring systems in the different dignitaries' territories. Consequently, bartering was still the main strategy in long distance trading.

While on Geiger's ship, Leylin had gathered many deep sea items using his own strength. Although it was just for fun, he had collected quite a few good ones with the A.I. Chip's assistance and his soul force. Geiger was left stunned when he discovered this, and ended up purchasing most of Leylin's items with a pile of pink pearls.

Leylin was also willing to sell them, and in exchange receive items of equivalent value that could be used in this world.

These pink crystals were very popular here and had very high value. One small bag was enough to buy everything in this shop.

"Many… Many thanks, my lord! Oh, my lord, you are like the stars in the sky, the darling of the many dignitaries! Your greatness, selflessness, impartiality and fairness will be immortalised in song and spread throughout the myriad of worlds…"

Seeing that Leylin was serious about a fair transaction and was not threatening him, the little person became emotional. A song of praise for Leylin sprang from his lips immediately, but that only made Leylin shudder with goosepimples.

"Alright, alright, now our deal is complete, I'll be off!" Unable to tolerate the little person's singing, Leylin took his items and left. After all, sound transmitted through soul energy was worse than harsh noise.

*Crash!* After he left, the two large shells outside the shop closed and abruptly began to move, falling into the ocean nearby and splashing water everywhere.

"Hm? Why is Old Cripple's shop closing so early today?" A few passersby were astonished, "Doesn't he find joy in prying into his customer's secrets? There was even that saltwater octopus who was scared to the point of going mad…"

Soon after, they seemed to have thought of something, and they looked at Leylin, who had just walked out of the shop, with reverence. However, he quickly squeezed into the sea of people and disappeared without a trace.

"It seems like this shop has quite a reputation? Though it doesn't seem to be a particularly good reputation," Leylin shook his head speechlessly, and went further inside the port.

He could now confirm that the Snake Dowager was the dignitary that ruled over the Hail Continent. He had to thoroughly plan how to conceal himself from her and how to break his bloodline shackles.

The first thing he had to do, however, was to settle down in Port Elias. The night curfew here was very strict and if he did not get proof of his residence before night fell, he would probably be forced to leave. However, he was only a pink pearl away from resolving this issue.

...

When night fell, Leylin was standing on the balcony of a luxurious private room in a hotel. He was gazing at the specks of light in Port Elias, and the faraway lighthouse in the distance and the pitch-black sea.

Near the port, many bright and beautiful images of every kind appeared, filled with enchanting splendour.

"It really is a prosperous and beautiful port…" Leylin's eyes seemed to be filled with a deep expression as he sighed lightly.

After closing the curtains, he laid half his body down on the soft sofa and sank into deep thought. The Snake Dowager was an unavoidable obstacle he had to overcome if he wanted to break the bloodline shackles. Fortunately, she resided in the Hail Continent.

'With my concealment techniques as well as the cover provided by the Mask of the Dreamless, I should probably be able to hide from any large-scale soul sweeps she attempts. Even within the Hail continent's Holy City of snakes, I might be able to hide myself as long as I don't meet her personally…' Leylin's eyes glinted.

Not even beings who comprehended laws could quickly scan an entire continent, let alone detect the life of every creature within it. Only if she reached Rank 9 would the Snake Dowager be able to do so.

Right now Leylin was emanating the aura of an Alabaster Devilsnake. With this layer of concealment, he could travel through the Hail Continent as if it was his own back garden.

Due to his research into bloodlines, Leylin was confident enough that even an Alabaster Devilsnake itself would not be able to unveil his disguise. Unless, of course, he came across a Rank 7 Alabaster Devilsnake or an Emperor. Leylin knew, however, that the Snake Dowager would not allow the existence of such a creature.

"It looks like it's necessary to risk entering the Hail Continent! I'll need to change my appearance." Leylin had not altered his appearance on Geiger's ship, and afterwards he had just hid under his cloak in Port Elias.

To be safe, he decided to change his appearance to sneak into the Hail Continent.

"I'll need to add another layer of concealment to the Mask of the Dreamless. In the Hail Continent, there will definitely be descendants of the Alabaster Devilsnake with mixed blood. I just need to keep resembling them completely…"

After thinking it through, Leylin looked gloomily at the large gray animal statue on the tall mountain through his window, "What does the existence of the Nefarious Filthbird here signify?"

This was a port that belonged to the Hail Continent, yet people still followed the Nefarious Filthbird. Leylin could not understand it, but the implications presented here were worth ruminating over.

Discovered and Scheme

Based on the information that Leylin had obtained, various dignitaries ruled over the different continents in the Purgatory World.

Although the Hail Continent was the territory ruled by the Snake Dowager, there was a port that worshipped the Nefarious Filthbird in close proximity to it. This could only be some sort of test and provocation.

'The Snake Dowager and the Nefarious Filthbird must definitely be on bad terms!' Leylin nodded as he recalled the scene where he'd gone through the barrier of the Purgatory World.

'But I have the feeling that things aren't quite so simple…' Leylin stroked his chin as he thought of something, 'That father and son pair, Geiger and Geiger Dole are rather suspicious!'

As they were Beholders, they worshipped the ancient Trial's Eye. This port, however, was under the protection of the Nefarious Filthbird. Even if entry into the port was freely allowed, it was still rather strange for them to come here.

Of course, in an era of pirates navigating the open seas, there were bound to be stolen goods; prosperous and free ports were areas where they could dispose of them safely. If Port Elias could shelter even the most evil and fierce pirates, allowing the Beholders to trade here would be fine.

However, Leylin still felt that something was slightly amiss.

Previously during the Thornback Ironwhale's attack, Geiger Dole had only used the bloodline abilities unique to his race, and did not reveal any skills related to the path of offerings or spirit beast magic. It was as if he did not know anything about them, and he was obviously hiding something.

'In that case, I can finally put that plan into action! It was something I originally came up with while I was bored, but…' Leylin touched his chin. Even if they had not come to his aid, Leylin could still have reached the port alone. Geiger Dole had only provided information, service and a ride to Port Elias. By helping them fight against the Thornback Ironwhale and gifting them its resources, they were now even.

"A.I. Chip, begin!" Leylin commanded.

[Beep! Mission established, beginning connection with stardust bugs. Collecting information!] the A.I. Chip's robotic voice loyally intoned. A multitude of glowing lights flickered in front of Leylin, turning into a screen. A variety of sounds were transmitted as well.

After bidding farewell to Geiger and Geiger Dole, Leylin had secretly left behind a few stardust bugs on their bodies, to ensure his secrecy would be maintained. With neither of the two having reached the Elder phase, the Morning Star realm, they couldn't even discover the stardust bugs let alone get rid of them.

At this moment, the screen zoomed in on a scene. In a cellar-like area, orange-yellow candle light flickered, showing Geiger and Geiger Dole's large pupils.

'Hm? This…' Leylin immediately focused on the scene with interest.

The A.I. Chip analysed the spiritual force communication, translating it into words that were displayed on the screen.

At the back of the cellar was a third figure. They were clad in a large cloak that did not reveal their race or gender.

This person seemed to hold a very high status. Geiger could only kneel in a corner while Geiger Dole reported respectfully, "My lord, this time there were no issues with the transportation of our goods. Although we met a Thornback Ironwhale, the casualties were minimal!"

"Also, along the trade route we met with a humanoid Exemplary who called himself 'Ley'. Not only does he have powerful magic abilities, which allowed him to face the Thornback Ironwhale head on, he's also proficient in metal alteration spells…"

Geiger Dole did not hesitate to betray Leylin, and no thoughts of protecting him seemed to cross his mind.

"Ley? What an unfamiliar name! A powerful humanoid? There doesn't seem to be any information about him in the nearby seas!" A robotic voice came from the cloaked figure.

"Nevertheless…" Its tone changed, causing Geiger Dole's tendrils to quiver.

"Are you not aware that, based on the rules of our organisation, should you find anyone at or above rank 3, you are to rope them in or even make them accept the 'Holy Eye Baptism', so they too can feel the greatness of the mighty ancient Trial's Eye?"

Seeing this lord on the verge of flaring up, Geiger, who was kneeling on the ground nearby suddenly exclaimed, "My Lord! The truth is, we already did all we could to keep that Mister Ley around, he, however, seemed to be very resolute in going on his own way. As we were afraid that he would notice anything, we did not press him further to stay…"

"Geiger!" Immediately after, Geiger Dole turned back and shouted, a whip of spiritual force had already formed.

Alas, it was too late.

"You seem to be… dissatisfied with my reprimand?" The dark figure shot Geiger a cold glance; along with its words, the temperature in the cellar lowered.

*Hss… Hss* With a terrifying hiss, the faint image of a giant snake appeared from under the cloak, and abruptly bit Geiger.

*Pak!* Geiger's large, only eye enclosed in many bloody veins. Numerous tendrils shrunk back, leaving only a ball of meat, unceasingly rolling on the ground.

"My Lord, I beg of you, please forgive Geiger's rashness!" Geiger Dole's giant eye quickly touched the ground.

"Make sure this never happens again." The black figure looked completely calm as it watched Geiger screaming and rolling on the ground. Ten or so minutes later, the giant snake finally withdrew its teeth and dissipated into a white light.

"Geiger, quick, apologise and thank our lord for his benevolence!" Countless tendrils extended from Geiger Dole's body and helped Geiger up. Geiger's eyes were now filled with fear, and the aura on his body had decreased in strength; his soul had evidently received some damage.

"Many– Many thanks, my lord!" Geiger struggled as he spoke, even his spiritual undulations were intermittent.

"Mm!" The black figure moved its head, and its tone immediately changed, "The transport of the goods this time is very important. It's an important material that my master needs to resist the power of chaos, thus it cannot be lost. Although you only sent the spare portions, it's not bad…"

"We are grateful for the blessing of our dignitary, the Trial's Eye…" Geiger and Geiger Dole answered solemnly.

"After resting here, send these supplies to the Hail Continent. This port is protected by evil and chaotic power, and although most wouldn't expect us to come here and make use of it, we still shouldn't delay…"

The black figure looked grim as it spoke, and the Beholder pair agreed. At the end, as if in passing, it suddenly asked, "Did you check the origins of that Ley?"

Hearing the topic that had caused him to be punished again, Geiger shrunk back while Geiger Dole laughed wryly, "He seemed quite mysterious to me. While he wasn't clueless about the Purgatory world, there was something off…"

"I have received intel from the Holy City. The dignitary of the Hail Continent, the mighty Ruler of All Snakes, has secretly set up a bounty, offering a large reward for a Magus from another world…" The black shadow suddenly brought up something else, and only Geiger Dole's gigantic eye blinked.

"Does my lord think that Ley could be that Magus from another world?"

"I can only say that it's a possibility. No matter how small the chances are, it's still worth investigating. After all, the ruler's rewards are very generous and our organisation is on rather good terms with the Holy City. As their allies, it is our duty to help them, right?

The black figure then looked at Geiger Dole, "Since he'll be staying at Port Elias for a while, lead me to his location so we can pay him a visit and proceed with the final verification."

"Understood, my lord!" Geiger Dole bowed respectfully.

...

The screen flickered off, and Leylin was left silent.

After a long while, a wry smile appeared on his face, "As expected, it seems that no matter how cautious I am, it's easy to be seen through. I can't use this appearance anymore…"

This current identity was what Leylin intended to use while learning the customs of the Purgatory World. Once he perfected his speech and could blend in with the natives, this appearance would then be abandoned. Now, however, he had to do this earlier than planned.

'What I never expected was that something I had set up just as a precaution would become useful to me!' Leylin looked grim, 'Also, evil and chaotic power? Weren't those the characteristics of the Nefarious Filthbird? Based on the battles with the Trial's Eye in various worlds, I'm not surprised that organisations that belong to the Trial's Eye have malicious intent towards this port. What's more, it looks like they even have support from the organisations in the Hail Continent…' He did his best to connect the dots.

'It appears like Geiger Dole is a small part of a large plan set in motion by a subordinate organisation of the Trial's Eye. The timing was just right for me to get involved in it…

'Although I was prepared to change my identity, I think it's better to make this organisation disappear…' Leylin had no conflict of interest with Geiger Dole before, so he naturally didn't mind being kind to them. Now, however, since it'd been revealed that they would threaten his core, he would take no pity on them. He had decided to eliminate them.

'I can't do it by myself though, the target is simply too large., there should be a better way…

Perhaps this is an opportunity! An opportunity to infiltrate their organisation, and enter the core of the Hail Continent!' Leylin's eyes brightened.

This was a territory protected by the Nefarious Filthbird. The moment the protectors of the port found out there were a bunch of believers of the Trial's Eye sneakily plotting against them, what would the consequences be like?

There was no need for precise information. Just spreading some misleading rumours would be enough for the two sides to become hostile, and even attack each other.

No matter what the result of the battle would be, they would definitely not have any time to think about Leylin's whereabouts.

Encirclement and Confrontation

'Still…' Leylin stroked his face which was covered by the cold Mask of the Dreamless, a mask which had traces of golden-red lines engraved upon it, 'This mask is too conspicuous. It wouldn't be good for hiding.'

A wave of pure white light suddenly emanated from Leylin's body. Within the radiant and dazzling light, dense white scales appeared on the Mask of the Dreamless, and a bloodline aura unique to Alabaster Devilsnakes unceasingly strengthened.

In the end, the whole mask became illusory and disappeared into Leylin's skull. However, a thin layer of white scales replaced the mask.

After the flash of light, Leylin's face underwent a huge transformation. His brows became thinner and longer, his now crimson eyes emanating terrifying light. His tongue grew slightly forked, and finally his teeth became incomparably sharp and menacing.

He continuously radiated dreamforce, and it condensed to form a thin layer around him.

Leylin fashioned a mirror of water and looked at his new appearance in the reflection with satisfaction, 'A mixed-blood descendant of the Alabaster Devilsnakes should look like this.'

A layer of serpentine skin and many white scales were left on his face, forming complex and intricate patterns that gave him a unique aura. He now looked exactly like a half-snake, a hybrid between a python and a human.

In the end, pretending to be a mixed-blood was a simple task with the A.I. Chip's abilities and the blood of an Alabaster Devilsnake.

*Clang! Clang! Clang!* Leylin listened quietly to the dull sound of a gigantic copper clock hanging at the heart of Port Elias.

The large clock rang twelve times. Its piercing rings ceaselessly rang out and caused the glass window to shake slightly.

'It should be midnight.' Leylin put on a black cloak, quickly disappearing from the balcony. Since he had already changed his appearance, it was obvious that he would need to give up this residence. Besides, there was much that he needed to do in the depth of the night.

As for the port's nightly curfew, it certainly was not as important as the preparations he needed to make.

'The dark night is the perfect cover for a great many things' Leylin gazed at the round moon in the sky emitting blue light, and chuckled slightly. His figure melded into the darkness.

...

What really happened that night would become an everlasting mystery. The only thing the residents of Port Elias knew was that the next morning, the guards in charge of security were encircling a warehouse.

Many patrols and battleships surrounded all of the Eden trading company's ships in the sea. Even the Godric had been attacked, and its low roars rolled out with the white waves of the sea.

"What is this? We are honest merchants. The Eden trading company has always traded legally, you can't do this." Seeing the guards ready to attack, Geiger collapsed in fear but Geiger Dole maintained its calm. One of its tendrils was waving a badge around as it released intense spiritual force undulations, "Do you see this? This is the badge of your vice-captain Ayker. We are his guests. You can't—"

"Ayker was captured long ago" an indifferent voice sounded from the back as the troops split in two, creating a passage. A human-like being with grey feathers stepped forth, exuding the aura of someone who had been a leader for a long time. The armour he wore had an image of the Nefarious Filthbird's wings on the breastplate.

"There's no need for you to wait for help. Ayker has been charged for corruption and colluding with the enemy, he's as good as dead." This being from a different tribe stared at Geiger Dole coldly, its eyes filled with bloodlust, "You damned Beholders, we open the port to you and you dare to conspire against our leader's rule? Even the fires of the ninth level of hell cannot cleanse you of your sins!"

'Elias' governor? Isn't he the one in charge of the chaos troops?' Geiger Dole's eye went cold, knowing that his cover had been seen through, "How did you find out about us?"

Piercing red light shone from his large eye, stunning a few guards for a moment.

"Dead people don't need answers. Take them out, leave none alive! In the name of the almighty Flapwing!" the governor ordered coldly. The guards beside him roared with a fanatical expression in their eyes. They pounced forth while brandishing their weapons.

These guards were all natives of the continent, devout worshippers of the ruling Nefarious Filthbird. The Beholders were their greatest enemy.

"True Eye of the Nefarious Monarch, Death ray!" Rays of death that were even more terrifying than before burst out from Geiger Dole's eye. A few giant sea lions nearby crumbled to the ground, and even their soul undulations were completely destroyed.

This time, Geiger Dole did not collapse after using the rays of death. A few ash-grey tendrils extended from his body, at the very tip holding eyeballs of an unknown creature.

"Almighty Ruler of Justice! Protector of all Contracts! Selfless Judge, Extraordinary Dignitary! The Trial's Eye that has existed across the past, the present and the future, accept this offering from your humble servant!"

Geiger Dole released strange spiritual force undulations, causing the air to shimmer. A multitude of light rays transformed into a small spell formation. An orb of red flames floated atop the spell formation, wrapping around the animal eyes in Geiger Dole's tendrils.

*Tss…* A shadow of the Trial's Eye appeared behind Geiger Dole, and its expression showed approval. Threads of pure energy surged forth from this phantom, pouring into Geiger Dole's body.

"Ah…" Having gained strength from the Trial's Eye, Geiger Dole's body expanded. A berserk aura was released, and any weakness from before disappeared completely.

*Swish!* Large pure-white tendrils grabbed a guard with the head of an ox, lifting him into the air. Geiger Dole snarled, and the guard made pathetic sounds as the tendrils slowly tightened around him. Blood and crushed bones leaked out of the gaps, dripping to the ground.

"A rank 3 Sacrificer, we've caught a big one!" Elias' governor looked extremely solemn as he watched Geiger Dole who seemed to have gone insane.

In addition to the abilities of his own race, Geiger Dole had evidently trained the Path of Offerings to the third rank. The Path of Offerings seemed very simple, as it only required a suitable item to sacrifice in exchange for power. However, it was quite troublesome when it came to raising one's rank.

After all, there weren't that many things a dignitary would covet. A rank 3 Sacrificer not only had offered something unique to the dignitary, but also devoutly followed the dignitary's doctrine. In other words, this was someone who had been brainwashed.

For the Trial's Eye, a rank 3 Sacrificer was a devout believer that should have its wishes answered very quickly.

Furthermore, other than the territory of the Dignitary they followed, Sacrificers weren't welcome in any other places. Hence, when the Thornback Ironwhale appeared, Geiger Dole decided not to show his power as a Sacrificer.

After all, using this power would show that he was a crazed believer of the Trial's Eye. A person with that status would not be accepted in a free port like Elias. Sacrificers of this rank had to be closely monitored any time they went to a continent that was not under the rule of their dignitary.

"A Rank 3 Sacrificer can use the power of their dignitary to reduce fatigue and replenish spiritual force. If one becomes a Sacrificer of the highest rank, it is said that the dignitary will even be willing to share the power of laws."

Elias' governor muttered to himself as Geiger Dole went crazy, "As expected, that enormous eye doesn't harbour good intentions. He even used such a high rank Sacrificer to infiltrate our territory…"

At this thought, the governor's face went grim and he patted his chest. With a deafening roar, a giant bear over ten metres tall sprung out of his chest. This giant bear had coarse orange fur all over its body. Its paws were very big and had dark, thick fingernails. At its chest, white fur converged to form a strange rune.

"Beast spirit magic summoning technique- Berserk Boltbear!"

*Crackle! Crackle!* The white lightning rune flickered on its chest, and sparks converged on the bear's paw. The paw was now sheathed in powerful lightning. The giant bear summon snarled, smacking downwards with its sharp lightning-enhanced claws.

*Crackle!* *Rumble!* The roof of the warehouse was completely lifted and sent flying away, and thick smoke spread out on the ground, which rumbled as if an earthquake had occurred.

Once the dust had settled, a huge pit was left behind on the ground, with scorch marks around the edges.

The Berserk Boltbear continued to roar thunderously, and with a single swipe a red figure was sent flying out.

Shadow and Sudden Attack

The one who was sent flying so impressively was obviously Geiger Dole. He now had three cauterized slashes on his body, obviously an injury from the lightning claws of the Berserk Boltbear. Afterwards, Geiger was dragged out by it, curled up into a ball.

A powerful force rippled through the area once more, suppressing the lightning burns that Geiger Dole had sustained. "Get away!" he screamed, spiritual force sweeping out to send a few guards flying immediately. Blood and brain juices began to leak from their eyes and ears, pouring out like a flood.

Many Sacrificers liked to draw the support of offerings to suppress their injuries.

"Thinking of leaving?" The Elias governor's eyes flashed ominously, "Summon— Nighthawk!"

An enormous tattoo of a black hawk suddenly emerged from his forehead. The large hawk was so vivid it seemed alive, and after the governor issued a command the beast spirit instantly transformed into a streak of light. A high-pitched cry sounded out as it soared into the air, its enormous wings spreading to blot out the skies.

'Hmm? This beast spirit…' Leylin was amongst the onlookers in the distance, wrapped up tightly in a black cloak as he watched the battle attentively with his blue eyes.

'A giant beast at Morning Star! It looks like the governor isn't simply playing around…' Leylin knew very well that the governor was at least rank 4. The Berserk Boltbear he had previously summoned had only been rank 3, and it was obviously used to toy with Geiger and Geiger Dole.

No, instead he had not even taken notice of them. He was far more interested in the depths of the warehouse, and in the hidden presence in the cellar.

Leylin could sense a terrifying bloodline force hiding deep underground that was even draining most of the governor's strength.

As it were, the strength of a Morning Star was not something an elder like Geiger Dole could withstand. With a high-pitched cry, a pair of black wings streaked past Geiger Dole like a sharp blade, destroying the sacrificial spell formation behind him.

Losing its communication link, no matter how unwilling it was the figure of the large eye could only slowly dissipate. Geiger Dole crumpled to the ground. Having lost his dignitary's support, the frailty and injuries from the battle had resurfaced. His tendrils began to pale, the colour spreading until it reached Geiger Dole's eyes.

'Such temporary strength has a lot of flaws…' Leylin watched on from the sidelines, leisurely commanding the A.I. Chip to gather data. He was making use of this time to analyse the pros and cons of the power systems of the Purgatory World.

'The path of offerings is limited in the strength it can supply. No matter how powerful the Sacrificer is, such power is only borrowed. Once the communication is broken or the dignitary retreats, the Sacrificer will be trapped in a dire situation…'

Leylin's eyes flickered, 'The information shows that there are some who obtain a permanent bonus to their strength or racial upgrades. However, those require huge sacrifices and even require completing specific missions, such as offering blood sacrifices of higher-ups from an enemy organisation.'

The path of offerings seemed very primal to Leylin. He was even beginning to suspect that this system was the original path to power in the Purgatory World.

'In that case…' Leylin stroked his chin, suddenly thinking of other aspects, 'I'll probably need to dabble in the training the path of offerings. No, it can't be superficial. I need to be proficient in it in order to complete my final plan!'

The hawk's cry sounded once more at this moment, and outside the warehouse the hawk soaring into the air descended like a victor, its sharp metallic talons ripping Geiger Dole to shreds.

"AAAAH! FATHER!" Geiger cried out pitifully, but couldn't escape his own fate of death.

Seeing the two Beholders perish one after the other, Leylin's expression did not change at all. Everything that had happened was obviously a result of the information he'd spread to the governor and his troops in secret. He'd mostly done it because Geiger Dole had made a futile attempt at putting Leylin in an unfavourable situation. No matter how pitiful the two ended up, Leylin wasn't moved the slightest in his heart.

On the contrary, he was here personally so that he could see what happened, and remove all chances of Geiger Dole's survival. Even if he had managed to escape, Leylin would've acted afterwards.

Seeing the soul undulations of the two being extinguished completely, Leylin could relax slightly. At the very least, there was now nobody who remembered him. He was now focused on the black figure in the shadows.

'That person was clearly Geiger Dole's superior. They are unusually powerful and have been laying low all this time, waiting for the most opportune moment to strike.' Leylin surveyed his surroundings. With Geiger Dole's death, the merfolk sailors soon lost all willpower to fight on and sank to their knees, begging for mercy.

At the anchoring point of the port nearby, the Beholder tribe's ship was already completely surrounded and had surrendered. The giant Godric was already floating on the surface of the water, rolled over and revealing its white belly.

'It's all settled. If it were me, this would be the best chance!' Leylin's eyes were fixed coldly on the warehouse.

At that moment, a deafening bang sounded out. Leylin could sense that the black shadow had finally made its move!

Rocks and earth flew everywhere the moment it acted, turning into marbles in the sky that fired into the surrounding area.

*Thud! Thud! Thud!* These marbles formed of soil and rocks possessed a kinetic energy so immense that they could even penetrate through steel armour. A large number of guards fell with a miserable cry. Blood flowed out profusely from their wounds.

"Kill them!" A black cloak flew into the air, and a white figure was like an illusion as it arrived in front of the Elias governor so fast it was hard to see with the naked eye. Sharp fingernails tipped the scale-covered hand that sprung forth.

The governor's beast spirit was currently outside, so he lacked his most powerful defence.

"Monkdarse Turtle!" Dark rays appeared at the Elias governor's chest, and immediately after a dark turtle shell emerged to block the area in front of him. Mysterious patterns appeared on the shell, and it emitted a metallic feeling that made it seem indestructible.

Beast spirit masters could not only summon beast spirits to battle, but could also use part of the abilities of the beast spirits that had been sealed into their bodies.

The Monkdarse Turtle was a marine beast known for its defence, but the strongest ones were at the peak of rank 3. Still, although the Elias governor wanted to summon something more powerful, he had no beast spirits that were more formidable.

Beast spirit magic was a common strength system in the Purgatory World, and almost all intellectual races had their hand in this. Beast spirit masters were divided based on ranking, from rank 1 to the legendary rank 9!

However, in the Purgatory World now, masters at rank 6, 7 and above had been consigned to legend.

The requirements for each beast spirit master to advance were simple. One had to seal enough powerful beast spirits and have enough soul force to control the sealed beast spirits. However, beast spirit masters that wanted to advance in rank needed to subdue a beast spirit of a similar rank.

To advance to a rank 7 beast spirit master, it was necessary to subdue the soul of a rank 7 beast with laws, and seal it into one's body. Only the dignitaries of the various continents possessed such a strength in this world, which made it practically impossible. Just the thought of extracting the Snake Dowager's soul and sealing it into their body would leave a beast spirit master quivering in fear.

A rank 1 beast spirit master could at most only control a rank 1 beast spirit, while a rank 2 could control a rank 2 beast spirit. As long as one was powerful enough and one's soul could take the stress, there was no issue with sealing multiple beast spirits into one's body.

However, it was evident that the Elias governor was a newly promoted rank 4 beast spirit master. The most powerful creature it had was the rank 4 Nighthawk beast spirit. The others were at rank 1 or 2 and wouldn't be brought out, because they would only bring shame to him.

This rank 3 Monkdarse Turtle was the most powerful beast spirit he had left.

From Leylin's perspective, a beast spirit master was very much like a summoner. Though the beast spirits that could be controlled were powerful, the master was a weak point.

'No! Rather, a newly advanced beast spirit master is at a weak point. The largest difference between a beast spirit master and a summoner is that beast spirit masters can seal beast spirits into their bodies, and make use of some of the abilities of a beast spirit. If they bide their time and seal enough spirits, they'll gain a lot of power.' Leylin touched his chin, 'The beast spirits sealed inside the body can constantly nourish the beast spirit master's own body and soul. As long as no bottleneck is reached, he can keep advancing!'

*Crash!* With just one attack from the palm covered in alabaster scales, the turtle shell in front of the governor began to fragment, showing its powerful strength.

Whether it was the Berserk Boltbear or the Nighthawk from before, even if they were hurrying over they were still a distance away. The governor was in a very dire situation.

However, Leylin merely watched on coldly, not having any plans to make his move. In his opinion, the governor had obviously discovered the other party and still sent out his Nighthawk, evidently having plans of his own.

"Die!" A low voice that was distinctly feminine came from the person who had launched the sneak attack. The figure of a white python suddenly appeared, emitting a bloodline aura that caused Leylin's pupils to shrink.

Sacrifice and Rescue

'This bloodline force… Alabaster Devilsnake?' Leylin's pupils shrank. As a Warlock, it was impossible for him to make a mistake in recognising bloodline force, but what this represented shocked him.

'A descendant of the Snake Dowager actually has such a high status in an organisation of the Trial's Eye. Is it for personal reputation, or is it some kind of exchange of benefits between the Snake Dowager and Trial's Eye?'

The large serpentine figure was covered in smooth white scales all over, its scarlet pupils emitting a chill that could almost suffocate a person. The tooth of the giant python merged with the palm of the attacker, bringing with it even more terrifying energy.

The white scales on Leylin's face were now beginning to flicker uncontrollably.

[Beep! Discovered undulations of bloodline of Alabaster Devilsnake that host is using for concealment. Accept or deny?]

The A.I. Chip prompted at this moment.

"No!" Leylin's eyes flickered and chose to deny it.

A trace of bloodline force emerged from his body, and in that instant, the attacker sensed it. Leylin could clearly see the moment where they looked over to investigate it.

At this moment, they definitely could not withdraw their attack. The terrifying palm that was reinforced by bloodline power grabbed the Elias governer's chest with their sharp nails.

Besides the silver armour on his chest, the governor had no other defences. There was no question that his stomach would be ripped through,

*Bang!* However, the palm with sharp fingernails halted in mid-air, not able to descend further. What grasped this slender scaly hand was another large hand that was like steel.

"Did you think… I only had my beast spirit magic to rely on?" The Elias governor's voice was low, and he exerted force from his hand. Like an iron hoop, it tightened around the attacker's wrist until creaking sounds were produced.

"Hnn!" The attacker made a sound, and an orb of white flame extended from their hand. The flames crackled as they crashed into the body, their boiling temperature causing even the surrounding air to distort.

However, it was to no effect. The governor's entire body was currently enveloped in a layer of dark grey light. In front of the flames, this powerful barrier wasn't the slightest bit damaged.

In the meanwhile, the phantom of a huge grey bird appeared behind the governor. Its feathers closed around him as if wrapping around him.

The large grey bird seemed to be very vivid. While it was a clone, there was a world of difference between it and the one summoned by Geiger Dole.

"My master, the mighty Flapwing! You are the master of chaos and the very personification of freedom!" Upon seeing the large grey bird figure, many residents of the port who were watching them immediately knelt to the ground, looking pious. This was what happened when followers saw the real gods they prayed to and believed in.

'Sacrificer! A rank 4 sacrificer!' The attacker quickly retreated, at the same time exposing their identity.

A face with patterned white scales was topped by a head of snow-white hair. This slender person was evidently a demisnake that had descended from the Alabaster Devilsnake. With the sharp voice and distinctive traits, Leylin could confirm that this one was female.

However, her right wrist began to twist at this moment, falling down without strength. She'd obviously received serious injuries from the governor's counterattack.

'A hybrid snake-girl? Interesting…' Leylin looked 'worried', as if concerned for her safety. Meanwhile, the A.I. Chip was constantly scanning the Elias governor. He was more interested in a rank 4 Sacrificer than the snake girl.

On top of that, the governor was at the fourth rank in both the paths of offerings and of beast spirits!

'Rank 4, comparable to a Morning Star in the Magus World. A Sacrificer at this level is a treasure to any dignitary. It's a devout follower who has complete faith in their path! The mighty dignitary even lets them borrow strength in advance, leaving the sacrificial offering for later…' Leylin immediately recalled the information he had gathered before. 'Furthermore… being a rank 4 Sacrificer is the base requirement for some ceremonies to strengthen one's body permanently!'

The snake girl had inherited the bloodline of the primordial giant Alabaster Devilsnake and had a vitality and strength that was so high it was frightening. However, he had been able to block the snake girl's attack, obviously having gone through multiple permanent power-ups. His strength and vitality was incomparably terrifying, and it even exceeded the power the snake girl got from her bloodline.

[Beep! Target is enveloped by an unknown force. Determined to be the law of chaos. Unable to scan.] At this moment, the A.I. Chip projected some information in front of Leylin, causing him to sink into deep thought.

'A Sacrificer has regular contact with their dignitary… The power of a rank 7 is something the A.I. Chip still can't analyse… Is that why it can't scan him?

'The snake girl is in danger!' Leylin looked at the demisnake, who was now secretly giving him a stern look.

'Hmm? She's warning me not to do anything!' Leylin was surprised.

'The governor of Elias is a rank 4 beast spirit master and Sacrificer. If he's from some special race his battle might could even be comparable to a Six Star Morning Star from the Magus World. The snake girl is no match for him, but she still worries about the life of someone from her race?'

In that moment, Leylin couldn't figure out whether to laugh or cry. Of course, his thoughts went further, 'Since she places so much importance on bloodline, I might be able to make use of that…'

The tables were quickly turning. With the advantages from being a rank 4 Sacrificer, the Elias governor had a terrifying physique and battle might. Added to his power of a rank 4 beast spirit master that allowed him to use all sorts of magic and long range attacks, he was practically at the peak of rank 4.

*SKREE! RRAAAAR!* At this moment, the Nighthawk and Berserk Boltbear had arrived behind the snake girl, sealing off her escape routes and teaming up with the governor to encircle her. Due to the soul connection between the beast spirit master and the beast spirits, they could be used like the governor's clones.

"Admit defeat! You aren't a match for me. In order to set this up, I've allocated a lot of elders here as well. Your subordinates and other organisations won't be able to run!" The governor slowly closed in, and a black gale sprung forth from the Nighthawk.

"In your dreams, follower of chaos and evil!" The snake girl's eyes went red, and a figure similar to that of the Alabaster Devilsnake appeared behind her. Profound dreamforce began to ripple slightly.

'The Alabaster Devilsnake originally inherited a part of the Snake Dowager's dreamforce. This is probably why this is her trump card…'

Dreamforce scattered out, forming a ring of dark red smoke. A few weaker commoners and guards had already fallen unconscious, evidently dragged into Dreamscape.

Things began to get chaotic, and taking advantage of this Leylin disappeared into a corner.

'It's a pity… if she really was a traditional Alabaster Devilsnake the sudden eruption of dreamforce would be enough to help her escape. Sadly her bloodline isn't pure enough, and the dreamforce she can muster is far too weak…' Leyln's mind kept working, and his thoughts quickly turned to another direction as he gazed upon the battlefield.

The governor grew dazed amidst the dark red fog for a while before he regained his senses, "This… Dreamscape illusion!"

He immediately sobered up, and the Nighthawk that his soul was connected to let out bright chirps. Its two wings created gales as if trying to blow the dreamforce away.

"You can't escape!" He stared at the snake girl, who now had scales all over her body and had completely entered battle mode.

"Lord Governor! Part of the enemies in the port have been eliminated. We're here as support!" With several bright sounds, three streaks of light hastened over, each of them having rank 4 energy undulations.

After seeing this, glee shone in the governor's eyes, and the snake girl was left in complete despair.

She secretly glanced in Leylin's direction, but when she realised he'd already disappeared, a wry smile appeared about her lips, 'Thankfully, that little guy escaped, or else he might have been involved…'

'Looks like it's time for me to take the stage!' Meanwhile, Leylin was standing on the rooftop of a building and watching on, eyes flickering with intelligence.

In his opinion, it was even more valuable to save her now. As for the fact that he intentionally spread this secret and attracted the enemy… Leylin had selective memory when it came to this.

Anyway, benefits were his primary goal. As for other methods like taking advantage of someone and helping them the next moment, there was no pressure on him due to it.

'Magic seems to require more effort in this world…' Closing his eyes, Leylin felt the difference between the Purgatory World and the Magus World.

'Just as well. I can recycle the dreamforce she left behind. Even if she's a descendant of the Alabaster Devilsnake, her usage of dreamforce is really too crude.' As he ridiculed her for a moment, Leylin's finger twitched.

It was like he was the most brilliant of weavers. Foggy dreamforce suddenly rose under Leylin's hands, rippling with a blood red glow. Great amounts of fog condensed to form a large spell formation.

"Crap, be careful!" The governor's expression suddenly changed, evidently not expecting that the snake girl who should have been waiting to be captured had a companion!

Snake Girl and Escape

'What's going on? Isn't she the leader of the organization?' The Elias Governor doubtfully looked at the snake girl, only to find that she was similarly perplexed.

'It doesn't matter, the first task is to capture her! Those who try to insult our master's glory must be punished!' The governor would not have reached rank 4 as a Sacrificer if he didn't worship the Nefarious Filthbird so fervently.

However, how could Leylin really allow him to make a move?

'In any case, he is still a rank 4 elite from the Nefarious Filthbird's group, so it won't be possible to just take him down in one strike…' The power of dreamforce spells was amplified to an alarming extent by the array, like charcoal being transformed into diamond, "Rank 4 dreamforce spell— Distorted Labyrinth!"

Dreamforce surged out violently to create an enormous labyrinth which enveloped the governor and the three Morning Stars who were assisting him. The walls rumbled under impact, and the Nighthawk's cry could be heard as the dreamforce labyrinth began to morph and warp.

"Let's go! I can't trap them for too long!" Leylin transformed into a black hurricane that swallowed the girl up. Even though he'd conjured the spell himself, it was being sustained by the dreamforce the girl had summoned and not much remained. Leylin was not certain of how long it would last, so it was necessary to quickly flee the scene.

The snake girl's scarlet eyes flashed as she sensed the bloodline power within Leylin, and she did not resist. The dark hurricane screamed with destructive power, drawing life force from the miscellaneous fish along the way. Only mummified corpses were left behind.

As they continued on, there were still some who tried to stop them. Soon, however, they disappeared into the horizon.

*Bang!* *Rumble!* After ten seconds, a great amount of lightning appeared above the dark red labyrinth. Shortly after the lightning struck down, and the elated chirp was let loose by the gigantic hawk.

*Crash!* The entire labyrinth fell apart, exposing the silhouettes of the flustered Elias Governor and his companions, "Chase after them and send out a warrant! Do not let that woman escape!"

The Elias Governor's eyes had reddened and even his voice had become hoarse, frightening the surrounding bodyguards into chilly silence.

...

'The Purgatory World seems to be different from the Magus World. The atoms' chemical bonds seem to be sturdier. Consequently, more power is needed to manipulate them.' Leylin was thinking of what had happened before when he used his full magic power as he ran away with the girl.

Ever since he had snuck into the Purgatory World, he had always maintained an extremely low profile. He had previously used the Metal Activation spell formation once, and that remained the only time he had used such a large-scale spell in this world.

'This is worse than before, the physical laws here are even more severe. While the power of spells has decreased, the cost to activate them has instead increased.'

Leylin looked at the A.I. Chip as it projected the newest results into his memory bank.

[Beep! Based on on-site detections and theoretical experiments, all levels of magic from the Magus World are weakened by 89% in the Purgatory World!]

'This weakening effect is very strong. Could it be that the Purgatory World didn't allow entry to other strength systems in ancient times?' Thinking of this other idea, Leylin ordered the A.I. Chip, 'A.I. Chip, search the database. Find the most suitable strength system for the Purgatory World'.

[Beep! Mission established. Scanning.] The A.I. Chip found the answer immediately.

[Based on simulations, the two most suitable power systems are: 1. Path of Sacrifices 2. Beast Spirit Magic.]

Leylin wasn't surprised by the results, he had already guessed this outcome, 'As expected, these are the most suitable systems. They seem to be the Purgatory World's most fundamental paths.'

As a result of differing world laws, every world had its own unique points and paths to power.

This inspection made it clear that the path of sacrifices and beast spirit magic were the most suited to the Purgatory World.

'It looks like I'll have to rigorously train to a high realm in both methods…' Leylin stroked his chin in thought. Although he was restricted by the Allsnake Curse, it only affected his bloodline force. While it was still a weakness, the curse had no effect on other paths to power.

"Fireplume!" Leylin called out, and a ball of black flames appeared in his hand.

"Multilimb Strength!" The phantom of a Multi-Armed Race member appeared behind Leylin, boosting his strength. These other cultivation methods were what had allowed Leylin to retain strength at Morning Star even after his bloodline force was sealed.

His bloodline force, however, was the main source of his strength. If the Allsnake Curse was not removed, he would be drained until he fell. Even if he encountered success with other power systems, the outcome was still set in stone.

Since he chose the path of bloodline as his main path, he had even let his own soul be affected by the bloodline. Consequently, other paths could only be considered the icing on top of the cake.

'As expected, the Purgatory World will suppress the strength of those from other worlds.' Leylin's expression became gloomy. Dreamforce was another usable source, but its intensity was unpredictable. Therefore, Leylin did not hold many expectations towards it.

'My bloodline force has been sealed, so I can only rely on other methods. When these other methods reach their highest realm, I will probably be able to use them to remove the Allsnake Curse.'

Leylin steeled his resolve, 'The A.I. Chip will allow me to quickly advance in rank. The paths of sacrifice and beast spirit magic are of the utmost importance, and Fireplume and dreamforce come afterwards.'

As for Multilimb Strength, the original information that Leylin had gotten was extremely lacking. Even with A.I. Chip's calculations, it had hardly improved. Thus, Leylin decided to abandon it as it could at most serve as support.

By this time, the snake girl had opened her eyes. She said in a frigid voice, "Put me down!"

"This place is over 300 nautical miles away from Port Elias, it should be safe for the time being!", Leylin shrugged as he stopped on a barren island. The black hurricane disappeared, exposing both their silhouettes.

Only now did Leylin have the time to carefully size up the snake girl.

She had long, snow-white hair and scarlet pupils. The white scales on her face were patterned, giving her a distinct aura but not seeming sinister. These features paired well with her air of superiority, giving her a unique charm.

'It appears as though all bloodline descendents of the Snake Dowager have this characteristic, with charm to spare! Could it be that she specialises in illusion techniques?' Leylin was left speechless. The A.I. Chip, however, had had enough time to collect information.

[(Unknown Name), Snake Girl. Sex: Female, Paternal Bloodline: Alabaster Devilsnake (Mixed), Maternal Bloodline: Unknown (deduced to be a humanoid species) Strength: 79, Agility: 50, Strength: 65 Spiritual Force: 463, Soul Force: 46. Passive Abilities: 1. Illusory Forcefield: Shrouds the area around the body in a layer of illusion forcefield, lifeforms with spiritual energy below 200 cannot resist, losing their free will. 2. Dreamscape Attraction: The Alabaster Devilsnake bloodline possesses the ability to draw dreamforce.]

The A.I. Chip very quickly projected the snake girl's image and specific data.

'Morning Star realm. This snake girl's stats are actually pretty good.' Leylin nodded his head surreptitiously as his thoughts hovered around the 'Mixed' tag.

'Even though her bloodline is of a Rank 5 creature, it is clearly not concentrated. It can't even match the one I embedded in my Mask. No wonder I don't feel any suppression whatsoever from her and her ability to attract dreamforce is so weak…'

'But the ability to connect to Dreamscape is worth more intense research,' although he already possessed a number of Dreamscape spells, he had reached a bottleneck when it came to using dreamforce. The appearance of an Alabaster Devilsnake, however, gave him hope to resolve this issue.

This rank 5 species had inherited the Snake Dowager's talents in controlling dreamforce, to the point of being able to connect to Dreamscape. This ability was very useful to Leylin.

The most crucial point was that he now had in his grasp the pure bloodline of a rank 5 Alabaster Devilsnake.

'Although dreamforce isn't reliable, it is still useful as a contingency plan. This girl doesn't seem to have the ability to travel to and from Dreamscape, but she might be able to give me some inspiration,' Leylin shamelessly observed the girl, making her feel rather angry.

"Are you done looking at me?", the snake girl snorted coldly.

"Don't tell me you're going to treat a clansman and your saviour like this," Leylin smiled slightly, "After all, without me intervening I'm afraid you would not have escaped the Elias Governor's hands."

"So what?", the snake girl appeared to be unyielding, "I clearly warned you to run away, so why did you not leave immediately?"

Good Feelings and Goodbye

"You and I are of the same type, and I had the ability to save you. How could I just leave you?" Leylin spoke in a righteous tone.

"Fool," the snake girl snorted coldly, but it pleased Leylin inwardly to notice her gaze softening considerably. She continued in a gloomy voice, "Mixed bloods like you are actually very rare."

Listening to Leylin's words, the snake girl immediately became uncommunicative. Her expression grew so damp it seemed like she could drip water. Leylin secretly nodded to himself as he saw this scene, 'I wasn't wrong. A half-breed will always suffer discrimination, no matter what world you live in.'

Leylin understood from the snake girl's bitter expression that she had suffered a lot. However, she was still able to show incomparable concern for those who were similar to her. He took advantage of this 'misery loves company' attitude to gain her full trust.

"Oh, that's right, I still don't know your name." Leylin smiled sunnily at her.

"Belinda. Yours?" Belinda stared at Leylin, focussing especially on his facial scales. Her eyes grew dreamy.

"My name is Nick, my lovely lady!" Just this little praise caused Belinda to flush, showing her lack of experience in dealing with others.

"So, Belinda, what do you intend to do next? And what was that at the port? Why were you attacked?" Leylin asked her as if he had no idea about what had happened. He acted as if he wasn't the one who spread information on her.

"Nothing, just the final struggle of a group of Beholders." The mention of the earlier incident caused Belinda's expression to turn cold. It was evident that she felt extremely resentful.

Leylin understood her feelings. After all, her organization hadn't planned to act against Port Elias. At most, their plan was to turn the port into a hub and use it to smuggle some goods. Thus, it was normal to feel resentful when their plans went down the drain.

"Nick, I have a question" Belinda looked at Leylin with a solemn expression, "Are you a follower of the Snake Dowager or a part of the Beholder crowd? Or do you believe in other dignitaries?"

Identifying which dignitary you followed was an extremely serious matter in the Purgatory World. The hostility between opposing factions often led to battles to the death.

"I am a wanderer. I have yet to choose an Exemplary" Leylin naturally caught the hidden meaning behind these questions and answered without the slightest hesitation, "I am, however, more inclined towards the Matriarch. After all, she is our progenitor".

The Matriarch! This was the title that the snake descendants, in the Purgatory World, mainly used to address the Snake Dowager.

"Since your belief is skewed towards the Matriarch, there is no risk of conflict between your belief and mine in the Beholders!"

Leylin expressed his understanding. It seemed as though the Snake Dowager and the Trial's Eye made an alliance.

"I am under the command of the Trial's Eye. I came to Port Elias to receive some resources to use in the rebellion against the powers of evil and chaos." Belinda told Leylin of her origins. She explained the conflict between the Trial's Eye and the Filthbird and went through the history of how civilization had developed in this world.

And in the Purgatory World, where the two Exemplaries' original bodies were located was an endless conundrum.

There was no peace at all between the Sacrificers on both sides. Every time they met, there would be a fight to the death.

"No wonder you were attacked. Port Elias is the territory of the Nefarious Filthbird," Leylin showed a shocked expression.

"The Port is a territory of the Chaotic power. There isn't much hope for them!" Belinda saw Leylin's expression and snorted coldly.

"Oh? What do you mean?" Leylin asked interestedly.

"I already reported what happened to my superiors. The organization will surely send support. The head of the organisation is, at the very least, a Rank 5 Sacrificer!", a flash of gloominess appeared on Belinda's face, "Port Elias dares to forcefully seize our goods and kill our members. This is the Hail Continent's territorial waters. No matter how powerful Elias' backer is, this place still belongs to us". At this point, Belinda was very confident.

Port Elias had been sneakily founded through the Bird's influence. It had not received approval from the Hail Continent's Holy City nor the Snake Dowager. After all, the Snake Dowager had allied herself with the Trial's Eye.

As a result, even if Belinda and her compatriots destroyed the entire port later, and even killed the Governor of Elias, nothing much could be done. The most Port Elias could do was to secretly order the arrest of Belinda and the others.

"A Rank 5 Sacrificer?" , Leylin was rather curious. He had seen the frightening abilities of a high-ranked Sacrificer from the Elias' governor and witnessed the capacity to go through your limits without any bottlenecks.

'This kind of high-ranked Sacrificer should be the favourite offering of hostile Exemplaries.' Leylin stroked his chin as the corner of his mouth curved into a smile.

Since Leylin decided to practice in the Path of Offering and the Beast Spirit Magic, he gained some understanding of these two cultivation techniques. Although it wasn't a lot, the information he got, the practical data and the A.I. Chips deductions allowed him to gain deep knowledge on the two systems.

In the Path of Offering, choosing an Exemplary was the most important step. It was also important to choose one whose doctrine aligned with your beliefs. Sacrificial rites were based on equivalent exchange; as long as an offering was made, power would be lent by the Exemplary you followed. But truly devout Sacrificers would be able to receive greater benefits.

Moreover, worshipping opposing Exemplaries was an incredibly stupid thing to do. Even if such a Sacrificer managed to not get targeted, his benefits would be greatly reduced.

'As for myself, becoming a Snake Dowager or a Trial's Eye Sacrificer would be courting death. The best option is the Nefarious Filthbird.' Leylin thought to himself, 'Furthermore, if I make a great sacrifice when I first communicate with the Exemplary, I should be able to reap great benefits. I might even receive the Unspeakable Baptism.'

Presumably, the Bird was enemies with the Trial's Eye and the Snake Dowager. Consequently, it would be happy to see Leylin grow strong and break through the Snake Dowager's seal.

The Bird was not an almighty Rank 9 so it couldn't remove Leylin's Allsnake Curse. But perhaps, it would be able to temporarily suppress the curse.

Leylin himself could only suppress the curse for 2 years, which was too short. Possibly extending the suppression time would become a great advantage.

Even though Leylin had gone through a great amount of thoughts, on the surface he only seemed to hesitate for a moment, "Belinda, you should be a high-ranked Sacrificer under the Trial's Eye, right?"

"Yes, that's right. I am already a peak Rank 3 Sacrificer and should be close to breaking through. Too bad I wasn't able to finish this mission." Belinda admitted it without the slightest hesitation.

"Why don't you follow the almighty Matriarch? She is our benevolent and beautiful progenitor", Leylin had an expression of incredible disbelief.

Although the Snake Dowager had allied herself with the Trial's Eye, it was still considered a betrayal for a descendant to believe in a different Exemplary. If she ran into a more radical snake, it might try to eliminate Belinda, the 'Disgrace of the Mother'.

"The Matriarch? It is true that she is everything to us but she is just too aloof and remote. We belong to the lowest rung of society so we only need fairness and justice. And the only one who can give us that is the God of Contracts."

Belinda laughed coldly at some unknown thought and became excited. Her expression revealed that she was remembering an unbearable event of the past. It was probably the oppression she had once suffered from the purebloods, something she could never forget.

"As a mixed-blood, don't tell me you have a good impression of those so-called 'pureblood' Alabaster Devilsnakes." Belinda stated as a layer of translucent tears appeared on her eyes.

Leylin pretended to become silent in response.

"Well, let's not speak of these unhappy memories! I have already issued the signal and reinforcements from the head of the Order will arrive very soon. You should leave!" Belinda exhaled a deep breath, glancing at Leylin.

"Alright." the organisation was approaching and, since they had different beliefs, staying any longer would arouse suspicion.

Besides, he had made a lot of profit today. Not only had he eliminated hidden dangers, he had even established a good relationship with Belinda. In the future, he would arrange another 'coincidental meeting', so there were no problems at all.

Threat and Action

[Beep! High-energy magnetic field discovered. Determined to be from a Rank 5 being. Host is advised to be careful.] The A.I. Chip's immediate prompt surprised Leylin.

'Looks like I can't leave even if I want to at this point,' a mysterious smile rose at the edges of Leylin's lips. Still, he pretended to be oblivious to everything, planning to leave after bidding Belinda farewell.

Just as Leylin was about to move, tremendous soul force undulations full of Just as Leylin was about to move, a streak of tremendous soul force undulations full of astounding strength and intent was transmitted over, "Wait, he can't leave!"

A figure gradually appeared from the surface of the water. A layer of transparent distortions gradually dissipated, revealing a large Beholder.

This one, however, was different from Geiger. It had three different giant eyes of varying sizes. The three eyes were in triangular formation, with the central one connected to a few fleshy-red channels. Pure white tendrils drooped to the ground, forming the Beholder's legs. A great and powerful aura emanated from its body.

'This one should be an Elder Eye of the Beholders,' Leylin judged inwardly.

An adult Beholder had the strength of an ordinary rank 3 Magus. Elder Eyes usually had strength at Morning Star.

This Beholder was even more uncommon. Besides the power from its own race, it was a powerful Sacrificer! The power of judgement emanated from its body, causing Leylin's eyes to narrow.

"This Beholder should be the leader that Belinda mentioned. Doesn't that mean it is a rank 5 Sacrificer?"

As a Rank 5 Sacrificer, this Beholder had strength comparable to a regular Radiant Moon Magus. What was most terrifying, however, was that its body had been fully branded by the Trial's Eye and even the A.I. Chip was unable to scan and determine its stats.

"Greetings, Lord Bayclark!" Belinda knelt reverently while pulling at Leylin's clothes to do the same.

"Greetings to Sire Bayclark!" Leylin merely bowed slightly. This made him seem arrogant, and a hint of disapproval was evident in the Beholder elder's large eye.

It glanced towards Belinda, transmitting tremendous soul undulations. Fury was evident within its eyes and it criticised her, "Belinda! Your actions today have tarnished the glory of our master. And it's not just your failure at Port Elias' stronghold… All your decisions so far have been rash!"

"Lord Bayclark!" While still kneeling, Belinda straightened her back, "Your subordinate is responsible for the failure at Port Elias, but allowing Nick to leave was a very ordinary matter. He might not be a subordinate of our Master of Order, but he is a descendant of the Matriarch."

"And a fellow clansman of yours," the Beholder added coldly, "I have long warned you to not be too kind towards those of your kind with mixed blood. They can only bring trouble!"

"Lord Bayclark, I can vouch for Nick. He's on our side, he helped me at the port." Seeing Bayclark's eyes flash with red, Belinda gritted her teeth and spoke on Leylin's behalf.

"Alright, I'll let him go. I hope your luck continues, or else there'll be another pair of vertical pupils in my collection!" Bayclark twisted his body and turned towards Leylin, "Or should I say, two pairs."

Belinda was badly frightened by this rank 5's threats, ridicule and lack of trust.

Leylin obviously wasn't the same. Outwardly he seemed indignant at this, his face and ears turning red. However, he was making a calm analysis on the inside, 'It arrived far too quick. That means it was already nearby, perhaps it was the commander of this operation while Belinda was the one in charge of Port Elias…'

Numerous sea tribes arrived as Bayclark and Belinda conversed. Mermen, octomen, and sharkmen, each outfitted in custom-made armour, brandished their assortment of weapons that included pikes and choppers. There were even magicians among their rank, neatly spread out into rows that formed a huge legion of staffs behind Bayclark.

"Followers of the Master of Order! Evil, chaotic power has taken over Port Elias and even killed our companions. This entity has committed the worst sin under the skies. What should we do?" The Beholder elder turned, transmitting tremendous soul force undulations and radiating it in all directions.

"Eliminate them!" "Suppress them!" "Burn them to death!" The marine people in Bayclark's legion raised their weapons and roared.

"Very good! You are all devout believers of our master!" The Beholder elder's slit eyes seemed to be filled with traces of red, "I hereby order all of you to attack. The target is Port Elias!"

At that, the clamour from the cries of these beings was enough to disperse the clouds in the sky. The surface of the water split apart amidst their thundering voices, countless enormous sea creatures revealing expansive level backs.

All the troops climbed atop the enormous marine beasts in an orderly manner, making them look like terrifying war forts.

"You, mixed blood of the Alabaster, believer of the Mistress! You must come with me and use the blood of chaos to prove your loyalty!"

"What right do you have to do that?" Leylin exclaimed in annoyance, pretending to be a hot-headed person.

"What right do I have? Well, I can kill you whenever I want to," Bayclark chuckled, while vast soul force wrapped tightly around Leylin. This was clearly a threat. Leylin was playing the role of a mixed blood with at most Morning Star strength, so he immediately paled.

"Belinda…" he looked at Belinda who was still kneeling and giving him a pleading look, "Fine, I'll do it!"

"That's the spirit! Chaos is an old enemy of your Matriarch too. Your actions will surely earn her favour." The Beholder elder released his soul force. It went near the coastline where a large golden octopus appeared, which let Bayclark stand on its head.

"I merely approve of some of the Matriarch's ideologies. I don't follow the path of sacrifices. A bloodbath won't bring me any benefits." Leylin looked grim as he mounted a large marine beast with Belinda.

Belinda was apologetic, and she transmitted over to him, "I'm sorry, Nick. I I dragged you into this. When the time comes, just protect yourself. Leave the rest to me."

"It's not your fault," Leylin smiled with difficulty while a trace of coldness flashed in the depths of his eyes, 'A rank 5 Sacrificer, and someone with a high position in the organisation, would make a great gift for the Nefarious Filthbird.'

...

A curfew had been imposed in Port Elias due to the recent events.

Streets that were usually bustling with life were exceptionally quiet. Boat wreckage and blood could be seen floating in the ocean, and the houses that had been wrecked in the incident were left desolate, yet to be repaired.

Groups of troops jogged around in an orderly manner on the streets, occasionally charging into shops and demanding they be allowed to search the area. It was pure chaos.

At this moment, an urgent alarm rang out and a piercing defensive air signal sounded.

From a high vantage point, one could see a large wave of giant marine beasts with countless figures on their back surging forth like a tide on the surface of the waters. Aggressive beings approached the port from the sky as well.

This scared a few of the free merchants, and they secretly put away their goods and escaped. After all, they could not afford to provoke either organisation. Doing so would only lead to a horrible death.

Merchants were not the only ones. Even the most evil pirates ran from such a dangerous place. They would rather fight the local troops trying to run away than stay here any longer.

Just as the chaos was about to escalate, the bright cries of a hawk sounded out. A large Nighthawk beast spirit spread its wings as it circled above the port with a figure on top of it. Terrifying power descended that was at the peak of rank 4, and the pier finally managed to regain its calm.

A swishing sound could be heard as something surged towards them. Soon, numerous streaks of light flew in from various locations to stand behind Elias' Governor, bowing in greeting, "Lord Governor!".

They all had Morning Star-ranked strength, but they could not conceal the worry in their expressions.

"They are Trial's Eye's followers. I can sense that nauseating smell coming from their bodies even from here." A white-haired elder with a hook-like nose and hawk beak spoke coldly.

"This should be about what happened this afternoon. I've already asked for support from the headquarters. However, they are too far away. Even if they used a teleportation spell formation, they would still need to use it several times. It seems our enemies have been preparing for a long time," Elias' Governor looked grim as he clenched his fist, causing the air to explode with an ear-piercing shriek. It seemed that he had been thoroughly enraged.