Chapter 803 - 239 - 245

Chapter 239 – Second (3)

Even so, the border of this material world had been shut down a long time ago. Theodore might succeed in calling out a demon, but its power wouldn't even be 1% of the main body.

However, that was enough, Theodore was sure of this.

Gods and demons, the transcendents of the Age of Mythology, were armed with a power which wasn't present in this age. They were of a spirituality that was several times higher than the present humanity.

It was possible to win even if it was 5%. This was the result of the summoning magic he envisioned.

–Do you want me to tell you before you eat that book?

It had been a while back. After Theodore entered the Zero Library with Paragranum, she had smiled unpleasantly at him, who had chosen 'Hell Fire,' and told him who the creator was.

–The magician who created Hell Fire was the demon king of fire, Fulito, who sent an avatar down to the material world. Hell Fire is a form of summoning that calls Fulito.

From then on, after discovering that Hell Fire was a variation of summoning magic, Theodore had studied the magic formula with summoning in mind. The role of the 'gate' was to invoke a summons through Hell Fire.

If so, Theodore's remaining role was to provide the causality and magic power which allowed it to operate in the material world. Just like Fafnir had been given 'Charlotte's Necklace', this demon summoning ceremony wasn't much different.

"「Offering.」"

The magic circle which was flowing red suddenly turned black. Like Hell Fire, it was a dark color that swallowed the light, shaking the boundaries of the material world and the ground at the feet of the two masters.

This was 'dimensional vibration,' a phenomenon equivalent to a higher level concept of 'space' which Orta and Zest could handle.

The confused Zest shouted, "What are you trying to call?"

Instead of answering, Theodore continued chanting the spell, "「 Monarch of the distant land, lord of fire, I will give an offering to your fire here, so please listen to my minor request. 」"

Then something emerged from the inventory into his left hand. It was a large and dull piece of skin. However, why was there a haze in the air, like heat rising from the surface of the skin and distorting the surrounding air?

The skin was the catalyst of a red dragon that was thousands of years old, and it required 11,000 points to take it from the Library. It wasn't something which should be used as a consumable, but this wasn't a situation in which Theodore could afford to save it.

Then at that moment…

[It has been accepted.]

An irresistible fear captivated the souls of the two masters.

'J-Just hearing this voice…!?'

The face of the demon king, Fulito, came from a distant dimension and overpowered the peak of humanity.

7th Circle magician? A swordsman that could cut through space?

Both of them wasn't at the level of a god and were nothing but worthless trash in front of a demon king. They stiffened as soon as they heard the voice, and their souls would've perished if they hadn't already transcended mortality.

Shortly after Theodore and Zest became frozen like stones, black flames appeared in the magic circle and the door opened.

Huuuuuuong!

Subsequently, an evil demon walked out from the gate. It had a body which exceeded 5 meters in height, a pair of wings like a bat, two flaming horns that protruded from its temples, and a burning red gaze. The demon gave off a scorching heat. The power of a demon, which had been absent for thousands of years, had now arrived in the material world.

[ According to the king's orders, this Magnus will annihilate. ]

Magnus, a senior demon with bat wings and the head of a lion, swallowed the fire dragon's catalyst before looking at Theodore, his summoner.

It seemed that he enjoyed the taste of the catalyst as he closed his eyes and laughed. [ This is truly a delicacy that I haven't tasted in a long time. I am the avatar of Fulito, king of fire. Summoner, let this Magnus destroy your enemy. ]

Perhaps it was because Fulito's intimidation had disappeared with Magnus' summoning, but Theodore opened his mouth and said, "I want the death of the enemy, Zest Speitem who is before me."

Then Magnus' burning eyeballs glared at Zest' existence. [ Hoh, a moderately strong person in this declining age… ]

Magnus determined Zest's strength and told Theodore, [ Summoner, I can't be sure that I can completely annihilate this human with the magic power and offering that you gave. Is that still okay? ]

"It doesn't matter. Just do your best."

[ Okay. I will show my sincerity for the delicacy you gave me, ] Magnus replied in a gentlemanly manner, unlike his vile appearance. An ogre would look cute standing next to the black leather and flames. There was also a sword and whip in each of Magnus' hands.

The two weapons increased in length and weight to match the demon's physiques. Then Magnus took on an intimidating fighting posture. This caused Zest to gulp unconsciously. "… A demon in this day and age, you were hiding something absurd."

Theodore laughed despite being drained by Magnus' summoning. "I said you would regret it."

"I never thought you would be such a scary guy. This is definitely my mistake."

As expected from Andras' 2nd Sword, Zest didn't stop his talking despite the presence of a senior demon. However, unlike his usual self, his grip on the sword was stiff. Was it because he sensed he couldn't go against this opponent?

Magnus held the greatsword in his right hand and whip in his left hand as he spoke, [ Let's try it once, Human. ]

"I am desperate to get the unique title of Demon Slayer!"

Zest sword was covered in blue, while Magnus' hands were surrounded by fire. A senior demon and a sword master… This was the beginning of the second stage of the match.

* * *

Obviously, it was Zest who ended up worse off. He was overwhelmed by the lich-like state of Magnus' limbs, and he couldn't compete with Magnus using his ability to cut 'space.' Due to the absolute speed of his initial movement, Zest's attack filled with killing intent was completed.

Zest's Style Space Cut: Decapitation.

This was a technique he had never used against Theodore. The sword technique which Zest had trained all of his life crossed 10 meters toward Magnus' neck. Zest's terrifying speed was beyond a realm that Theodore's eyes could follow.

'Kill!�� Zest was delighted the moment his blade touched Magnus' neck. It didn't stop at fabric, cutting through muscle and bone. Even a demon would die from this. However, Zest's expectations were soon betrayed.

Paaaang! A shockwave burst from the whip that moved through the air. Zest desperately tried to avoid it, but blood burst from his body as he was hit. Magnus didn't stop moving the whip, despite half of his cervical bone being cut.

Zest wasn't a magician, so he didn't know it well. However, senior demons had evolved into a completely different form of life from the material world.

The concept of a vital point didn't exist, and even death was a temporary monster.

Magnus had appeared in this material world and imitated the appearance of a living creature, but it was only a shell. His brains and heart didn't function. A demon was close to being invincible after being summoned, so they were always subjects of reverence.

However, Zest didn't know this, and even if he did, he had no intention of trying to understand.

"Why isn't your head cut off?! You damn lion head!"

Zest had trained with the aim to cut everything. He had cut rocks, steel, water, and wind countless times, so he could even cut space. He couldn't accept it just because his opponent was a demon.

Zest's Style Space Cut: Heart Cut.

Zest's sword moved again, but Theodore was unable to see the power of the empire's 2nd Sword.

Puhwaak!

The sword was covered in a blue-green light, and it suddenly popped out from Magnus' chest. This would be a mortal wound for any human. However, Magnus just laughed casually. [ Kuahahaha! What a fun ability, Human! It is a sword that can't be avoided or blocked! This is great! ]

"I ripped out your lungs, so how are you laughing?"

[ I didn't have such a thing from the beginning! ]

While Zest was fuming, Magnus stuck his sword into the ground and a wave of heat spread.

Kwakwakwakwa!

The ground shattered, and the soil which melted from the heat boiled up like lava. This was Magnus, the subordinate of the fire demon king, Fulito. So, naturally, this massive body contained the power to control fire.

Every time Magnus waved his greatsword, heat raged, and every time he swung his whip, a storm occurred.

[ Now, it is still too early to breathe! ]

It wasn't a sophisticated style of swordsmanship. The whip swept simply through the ground and air.

Zest was forced to step back.

With fast and strong motions, the end of the whip constantly disappeared from view. Meanwhile, the greatsword cut through the air from a distance, causing the blood in Zest's body to boil like it was heated up. The outcome had completely tilted to one side.

Magnus was completely intact after several rounds of battle, so the fight between the two sides naturally became one-sided. However, Theodore calmly saw through the battlefield.

'The balance hasn't tilted yet. Zest's sword might not seem to have any effect, but the ability to cut 'space' is cutting at the knots of my summoning magic.'

Zest didn't stop even when he was hurt by the heat or shockwaves. Even though it seemed meaningless, he continued attacking the demon.

He attacked Magnus' neck, heart, lungs, stomach, collarbone, and so on. A human would've died one hundred times over. However, Zest continued consuming his aura to attack, despite Magnus' sneer.

Thus, this fight eventually turned into a battle of attrition.

"Ugh!"

The limits would've been reached sooner if this wasn't an extra large magic circle. Theodore maintained the magic circle which had hundreds of disconnected strands with his own ability. He groaned as he used his magic power desperately, hoping that Zest wouldn't notice.

Theodore had to endure it until Magnus killed Zest, or until Zest gave up on Theodore and withdrew.

Now, Theodore had around 5 minutes left? Or was it 10 minutes? He calculated his limits and stared at the ground, only focused on maintaining the summoning magic. The occasional debris which blew over was blocked by Magnus' shield, so his concentration wasn't disrupted by outside interference.

"Damn, I can't endure this!" Zest's patience broke first.

His vast amount of aura was running out, and a discord between his limbs started to grow. He had to deal the decisive blow today. Zest made his decision and took three steps away, pulling up the rest of his aura. "I will use my final strike, Lion Head! Receive it if you are confident!"

Magnus was excited for the first time in a long while, so he responded to the provocation, [ Try it, Human! I will crush it! ]

"It is coming!" Zest smiled with satisfaction and grasped the sword tightly with both hands. His specialty to cut space normally involved the use of one hand, but two hands were necessary for this move.

First, he had to gather all his aura onto the blade. 50 centimeters… 1 meter… 2 meters… The blue-green aura rose incessantly from the end of the blade. Once it reached 10 meters in length, Zest realized that he reached his limit.

'This is the last one.'

If Magnus didn't lose to this skill, Zest would die.

"One Hit Kill! Either you will fall or I will! I will decide my fate with this sword!"

Zest pointed his sword upwards. Was he going to swing it downwards, or did he have other intentions? It happened before Theodore could guess Zest's intent.

Kiiiiing!

Zest's aura manifested itself, and the 10-meter-long aura blade stretched out, cutting the entire space dozens of times. The disadvantage of this move was the long preparation time, but it was a deadly blow that had never once failed when he completed it.

Zest's Style Space Cut: Ten Thousand Killing Swords.

A momentary burst of blue and green light covered the area.

Chapter 240 – Second (4)

Shaaaack-!

The air was torn. Darkness couldn't be seen in this gap, while the 10-meter-long aura blade was hidden in it. This was a sword which cut through space.

If the world was like a watercolor painting, then Zest's blade was a streak of black on the paper. Physical strength and defense were meaningless in front of it, and it was more like destroying the space where the other person stood, rather than cutting.

Even the senior demon, Magnus, couldn't be careless against this attack!

[ No?! ] Before the astonished Magnus, the aura blade tore through the space.

Then it cut Magnus' head, heart, and neck. The blade took one step away from the material world and created a ridiculous tear. There was no way to survive in this life-threatening hell which covered 360 degrees. A body would be torn to pieces, disappearing without a trace.

This was Zest Speitem's special move, cutting a person to pieces. It was a technique where the aura blade literally shattered the space along with the target. Death was a certainty, even for the famous Orta.

Immediately afterward, countless blades of light surrounded Magnus.

Hwaaak!

Black blood emerged. The distinctive smell of sulfur was emitted from Magnus' body which didn't exist in the material world. It was evidence that Zest's attack was valid for the first time.

"Kuheok!"

The space which was cut dozens of times shook unsteadily, and Theodore coughed up blood as he maintained the summoning spell.

'Damn, I can't last much longer…!'

The summoning circle had already been broken to an extent that the shape couldn't be recognized, and the connection with Magnus was on the verge of being severed. It wouldn't be strange if Magnus' summoning was canceled immediately.

Zest was exhausted after using all of his aura, but he was convinced of his own victory.

[―Good, now is it my turn? ]

The demon moved despite his shattered body.

"What?!"

Magnus' flaming sword, a greatsword which was larger than the pillar of a building, moved toward Zest at an amazing speed. The powerless Zest couldn't afford to go against it. However, he managed to avoid it desperately at the right timing.

As expected of Andras' strongest swordsman, the attack was blocked. A direct strike would've taken his life, but Zest reduced the damage as much as possible by moving far away.

Kwaang!

Alas, that didn't mean his body wasn't injured. Magnus' destructive power was really great, and Zest paid the price. Despite offsetting most of the power, both of his arms were broken, four of his ribs had snapped, and some of his internal organs were damaged.

Zest would've been seriously injured if there had been a little more strength in the attack.

[ As expected, I'm sorry. In the end, I am lacking one step. ] Instead of chasing after him, Magnus turned to Theodore and grumbled. [ Summoner, prepare for the future. ]

"Is there a reason why I have to hurry?"

[ That human's skill has touched the dimensional gate. My flames and the boundaries of this material world are bound together, so this whole area will be blown away. ]

Theodore understood Magnus' words and his eyes widened. "Surely, it isn't dimensional shaking?"

[ As expected from a magician. ] Magnus' body gradually faded away. The connection which brought him to the material world was cut off, so it was natural for him to return to his original world. The demon, who enjoyed himself after thousands of years, disappeared, and the space around him distorted.

Huuuuuuong!

It was as he said. After Magnus disappeared, the entire space where the magic circle was drawn had distorted. A world which couldn't be understood by the human senses unfolded.

There was a dizzying array of sound and sights that couldn't be distinguished. Theodore tried to raise his body but panicked as he found that the ground had already disappeared. It wasn't a phenomenon which could be escaped with human legs.

He would die.

That's why he went with his first instinct. Theodore couldn't find the answer on his own and quickly called an advisor.

'Gluttony!'

–I was already awake. You didn't have to call me so urgently, User, Gluttony talked as calmly as usual, despite Theodore standing at the crossroad of life and death. Its attitude calmed Theodore's impatience.

Gluttony was trustworthy as always as he delivered some instructions, –Protect your body before I give you a way to escape this place. If you take advantage of Umbra's strength, you can resolve some of the pressure of this distorted space.

'Use Dimensional Leave?'

–Umbra relies on mental power, not magic power. Even if your magic power is depleted, you can hold it for about 30 seconds.

Gluttony's advice was correct. Theodore felt his breathing ease as soon as he unleashed Umbra's strength. The distorted space had made it hard for him to breathe. Theodore became calm as his breathing was restored, and Gluttony moved onto the next step.

–You need something to get out of here.

'That something, do I already have it?'

-That's right. It is necessary to bring out 'Death's Worship' that is sealed in the inventory.

'What?'

Theodore was lost for words. It was natural when thinking of Death's Worship.

It was the grimoire that had created thousands of undead a few years ago when Theodore returned home. The grimoire contained the soul of the ancient legendary warlock, Jerem. He was a specter of the 9th CIrcle that didn't remain in this age. Yet Gluttony wanted to release the grimoire that had turned an ordinary magician into a top-grade undead in just three months?

However, Gluttony's subsequent explanation convinced him.

'…I roughly understand your explanation. I'm to use the grimoire's space transfer to escape this place?'

–That's correct.

Theodore lacked proficiency in space magic, and he couldn't escape from this distorted space with his circles' overload. In that case, he should grab the tail of an escaping item. The space transfer function of the grimoire was continent-wide. Gluttony anticipated that Death's Worship would try to escape and devised a method to grab onto it. The destination might be a bit random, but Theodore nodded.

"Okay, let's try it."

There was no time left to worry, and he had no other options. Theodore held out his left hand with a nervous expression and opened his mouth to shout. He hoped he wasn't making a mistake here.

"Come out, Death's Worship!"

Simultaneously, a grimoire wrapped in chains emerged.

"■■■■■■■―――!!"

Was it an expression of joy from its liberation, or an outburst of anger? The grimoire let out a terrible roar and exerted itself to escape from this space. Theodore could see that the grimoire wasn't affected by the distortion of space. Rather, space was bending around Death's Worship.

At that moment, Gluttony stretched out its tongue.

–Where are you going alone?

"■■■…!? ■■■■…!"

–Shut up!

The grimoire struggled against the tongue that grabbed it. It didn't seem like much, but Gluttony and Death's Worship were fighting fiercely in this distorted space. Theodore watched them with a nervous face. Now, he could only maintain Dimensional Leave for 10 seconds. After that, he would be crushed by the pressure.

However, Death's Worship wasn't a grimoire that could beat Gluttony.

–Good! We are leaving here, User!

Death's Worship was caught by Gluttony's tongue and jumped forcefully. Theodore disappeared seconds before the distorted space was about to explode.

Flash!

After that, there was a tremendous wave of heat.

* * *

The explosion was so large that even the inhabitants of Sipoto could see it from tens of kilometers away.

The flames burned the clouds, and the earth screamed. Rather than a mushroom-shaped dust cloud, it was more like the eruption of an active volcano. In fact, it caused the skies of Sipoto to turn dark.

To add one thing, it wasn't just the space distortion which had caused this explosion. The cause had been Ragnaros, the hell ruled by Fulito the demon king.

It was a catastrophe which occurred when the boundary between that dimension and this material world broke down. A world where thousands of hot winds always blew and lava overflowed instead of water… It could be said that Fulito's territory eroded this land for a while.

Fortunately, there were no casualties due to the heat. It wasn't a coincidence that Theodore and Zest had clashed in the wilderness. This had been thanks to Theodore's concern that innocent people might be affected.

Kukukung…

A moderate amount of time passed by since the explosion, but the land didn't stop crying. The noise mixed with the sound of the wind created an eerie feeling. The same was true for someone covered in a black robe.

"…Finally, I found it."

No, that wasn't fear in the voice. Delight and unpleasant joy overflowed from the robed person. One of the four horsemen, the white knight spoke with trembling eyes. The eyes, exposed through the robe, were gently curved and moist, as if the person was crying.

"Apostle of Death. Our merciful master, who will lead us to the path of immortality…?!"

It was a voice that sounded like a bell. The loud, cheerful voice resonated in the wilderness. This passion seemed unfamiliar to the person, but they weren't surprised or panicked by it. They had been waiting centuries for the resurrection of the Apostle of Death and sought his relics.

He was the founder of the four horsemen. It had been an extraordinary honor. In the forgotten history, he was the king of hell. He was the notorious warlock whose four horsemen tried to cover this material world with death…

Even now, humans who learned black magic admired and feared him, and the high-ranking demons still remembered his name after thousands of years. Even so, the successors to the four horsemen couldn't recognize 'it.'

"Ah…! Please pardon our foolishness! The rudeness we have committed! We were stupid for not recognizing you!" The white knight, Hipatia, bowed before all traces disappeared. "Next time I will find you, Lord Jerim."

However, Theodore didn't know it yet. He never thought that another puzzle piece would be inserted due to the grimoire he had taken out as an escape method. Ash powder blew into the place where Hipatia once stood. Hipatia left as soon as possible to share the good news with the other horsemen.

It wasn't yet known that this would lead to another incident.

For now, it was enough to know that the land had become devastated due to the battle between Zest Speitem and Theodore MIller, who had summoned a demon that hadn't appeared in thousands of years.

It was a few days later that the news of the great battle in the Sipoto wilderness was transmitted to Meltor.

Chapter 241 – Where is This (1)

It was dawn, when the sky still wasn't bright.

There were a few empty seats in the royal conference room in Mana-vil, the capital of the Meltor Kingdom. The chiefs of each department had firm expressions, while the elders of the magic towers sat down heavily.

Two tower masters were sitting in their seats, but Veronica was missing.

The people present looked different. Some were concerned, while others were angry. There were also some who were sad, and some others who were silent. The way they expressed it was different, but everyone in the meeting room had some 'weight' bearing down on them.

"Attention." The atmosphere calmed with the king's voice.

As they bowed their heads, the tower masters quietly raised their closed eyelids. Once everyone's gazes were concentrated on him, Kurt III opened his mouth, "…I think everyone knows the situation."

The heavy silence was proof of his words.

"Let me share my view with you before we discuss what measures to take. First of all, who is the villain? White Tower Master."

"Yes, Your Majesty." As if they already discussed it, Orta took one step forward. Orta was the head of the white tower that specialized in espionage, and he had a career which was close to a legend. It was hard to find someone who was a better fit than Orta for this role.

Orta's lips moved under the white mask as he said, "The first and most likely possibility is one of the Seven Swords of the Andras Empire. They know that Theodore recently defeated the 4th Sword, so they would've sent at least the 3rd Sword—a strong person that can't be defeated."

Then Blundell asked a question which reflected the feelings of the other people, "Who is the most powerful among the three?"

"Needless to say, it is the 2nd Sword, Zest Speitem," Orta replied quickly. "Many of you don't know this, but Zest Speitem's ability is to interfere with space. He is a person who threatened my life several times in the last war, as flying magic and space magic loses most of their utility before him."

"It means that common methods of escape aren't possible."

"Yes. Additionally, he is extremely cruel on the battlefield. There would be no chance if he was sent as an assassin."

Indeed, everyone nodded at the words. It was an easy to understand explanation for those who didn't have experience in battle. Even Orta's excellent mobility was useless, so other magicians would have no way of surviving if they met Zest.

However, some of the attendees couldn't accept that opinion, and they objected to it. One of them was the minister of the military, Robert. "White Tower Master's words are true, but isn't it said that the 1st and 2nd Swords never leave the empire? Isn't it more likely to be the 3rd Sword or another possibility…?"

Orta shook his heads at Robert's words. "I don't know the capabilities of the 3rd Sword, but I know that he is a prince. It is hard to imagine such a person would go to Sipoto to assassinate someone. And the precedent that you mentioned…"

The 1st and 2nd Swords didn't leave Andras. That premise which had lasted for half a century had literally collapsed overnight. It had allowed for a surprise attack. The vigilant Orta didn't deny the mistake. He just scolded himself for being complacent.

"It means that either Andras' policy has changed, or Theodore is such a threat that they were forced to change the policy."

Orta and the others considered this a series of misfortunes in many ways.

The circles' overload…?

That was a rare phenomenon for senior magicians and was treated as a type of growing pains. If they had thought this would happen, they would've sent Veronica or Blundell to pick Theodore up. However, it was too late now.

Kurt sighed a few times before looking around. "Continue. Is there another possibility aside from the empire's Seven Swords?"

"I have a few hypotheses…" Orta continued the explanation, and the meeting room became heated with discussion. There were the warlocks lurking in the Orcus Company, as well as the Lairon Kingdom, that had lost a crusader due to the Soldun civil war. They might not want to risk a full-scale war with Meltor, but those forces could pursue Theodore.

A few hours passed by.

Then by the time the sun reached the middle of the sky, the people left one by one. It meant that the emergency meeting was over. After most of the seats in the meeting room were emptied, Kurt III turned to the side and asked, "Where is Veronica?"

"Last night, she went straight to the Sipoto wilderness. She will come back after directly investigating herself."

"…Will it end with just an investigation?"

Orta thought about it for a moment before shaking his head. He was well aware of her nature. A wildfire might occur in the Andras Empire, or the rain clouds would evaporate to cause a drought. Directly or indirectly, she would cause a tantrum until this mess was finished.

Kurt's role was to calm her down, but he had no intention of holding the reins at this time. "For the moment, I will let her run around as she likes."

The two tower masters remaining in the meeting room nodded. They would put any blame on Veronica instead of the kingdom. Of course, the topic wouldn't end here if Theodore had died, but they had a unique source.

Kurt stared at a spot where nobody was seated and said, "You can reveal yourself now."

It was then that a bewitching beauty appeared in the empty chair. A blue dress clung to her body and revealed her smooth skin. She was a beauty who would bewitch any shallow man—Sea Dragon Aquilo.

This wasn't the place to openly host a dragon, so she had to conceal her appearance.

"I hope you weren't bored."

"No, I thought it was fun," Aquilo murmured with interest in her eyes. "A kingdom where the selfish interest of politicians doesn't take precedence… This is the first time I've seen it. Personally, I think it was a bit more messy than usual, but it's fresh."

"…You truly are a dragon."

The ability to treat a kingdom as a toy truly belonged to dragons who lived for thousands of years. Kurt lost his thoughts for a moment before asking, "You're sure that Theodore is alive?"

"Yes."

It was a strange question and a strange answer. Despite being thousands of kilometers away from where the fighting took place, Aquilo was certain of Theodore's survival.

"I am connected to the boy by blood. Until this connection is cut off, I am sure that the boy is alive. You don't need to worry because he doesn't seem to be in much danger."

"Sigh, that is fortunate."

Orta interrupted from where he was listening to the conversation, "Lady Aquilo. Can you determine his location?"

"Um… It is a bit strange," Aquilo explained with a slightly confused expression, "I can tell that he is 3,000 kilometers away from my position, but I can't find him. I can tell that he is alive, but I don't know where he is."

"What does that…"

"It means someone has hidden him, or he is far away. Either way, it is hard to understand."

Certainly, it wasn't wrong for Aquilo to say this.

After fighting one of the empire's Seven Swords, Theodore was either hiding or had somehow moved thousands of kilometers in just a few days? Common sense said that this was a situation which could never happen.

Orta and Blundell were in a dilemma.

However, Kurt raised his hand, indicating that it was pointless to feel anxious. "It is fine as long as we know he is alive. We will continue our search for Theodore. In the meantime, complete the investigation into this attack as soon as possible."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"Andras or Lairon… It doesn't matter who was behind it. We will make them pay a few times over," Kurt III declared. Then a rare enthusiasm filled his purple eyes as he added in a strong voice, "If that is the case, we need to keep war in mind."

They were considering war, just because of a single person. It showed how much the kingdom valued Theodore Miller. Orta and Blundell accepted Kurt's words without objecting. Meanwhile, Aquilo looked on with interest as the emergency meeting in Meltor ended.

* * *

At a similar time, Theodore woke up in an unknown place.

'He…re?'

He regained consciousness and could feel the pain throbbing all over his body. His bones were tingling, and his torn muscles brought him considerable pain because they were in the process of reattaching.

There was one area which was causing him the sharpest pain. It was his circles' overload. The pain was unbearable. Fortunately, there were no fatal cracks, but just a little more and his circles would've cracked.

"Well, it is good that I survived."

However, Theodore didn't regret it. That had been an opponent he couldn't hold back against. The empire's 2nd Sword, Zest Speitem… Theodore had no chance against him from the beginning. Yet Theodore had stayed vigilant and managed to survive.

Then at this moment…

"Hmm?"

A scent passed by his nose. He seemed to have smelled it somewhere before, but he couldn't recall what it was. As he felt a sense of discomfort and deja vu, Theodore looked around the room.

'This is Eastern furniture? Does the owner have such tastes?'

Some wealthy people in Kargas converted their entire homes to an Eastern style, so the room that Theodore saw wasn't unique to the East.

The strange thing was that most of the furniture looked shabby, rather than the charming antiques which rich people preferred. The furniture appeared to have been made a long time ago, or maybe they had been repaired several times.

'Perhaps…?'

Theodore hurriedly raised his body, grabbing his pained waist. He wouldn't be able to sleep well for a few days. One step, and then another step… He walked a few more steps like a sick person, before facing a door which was just as tattered as the furniture.

Kkiiiik.

The door wasn't greased, so it opened with a loud noise. Simultaneously, a strong wind blew at Theodore's hair, and he frowned as he felt the coolness. The wind was so strong that it wasn't easy to look ahead. However, there was another reason why Theodore frowned.

'This wind is also somehow familiar?'

He felt a sense of incongruity every time he moved, and Theodore anxiously wondered if his senses were broken. However, after the wind died down, he could finally see.

"…Ah!" Theodore couldn't help exclaiming. The scenery stretched out before him, and the land below him filled his vision. Theodore was standing on a mountain at an incredibly high altitude.

However, that wasn't why Theodore couldn't hide his surprise.

'I know this place?'

It was familiar to him despite never having seen it before. Gluttony's power allowed Theodore to share his memories with someone, causing this sense of contradiction. Yes, this was the landscape that Theodore saw in 'his' memories.

"…Sun Clouds Mountain Ranges?"

The man from the Fairy Dance Lee family had gone to the Western Continent to overcome the deficit he had been born with. The view that the founder of Battle Song, Lee Yoongsung, had wanted to see was stretched out in front of Theodore.

Chapter 242 – Where is This (2)

"This is impossible."

No matter how many times he looked away, the scenery that appeared was the same. The mansion in the distance was no different from what he remembered. Baekun Mountains…

According to Lee Yoonsung's memories, this was the land which the Fairy Dance Lee family had defended for generations, a place where many types of spiritual things lived. Theodore had wanted to come here someday, but he couldn't help wondering about why he was here now.

So, he questioned the source of all this, "Gluttony!"

The grimoire had been the one who suggested using Death's Worship as a means of escape. The grimoire's ego which dwelled inside Theodore responded, –You called.

"Of course, I called! Why have I ended up all the way in the East Continent? Explain it so that I can understand!"

The virtue of a magician was to stay calm in any situation, but it was hard at this current moment. Even a space magician like Orta would be exhausted if he crossed a few borders. However, Theodore had transcended the gap between two continents. Additionally, this was the Sun Clouds Mountain Ranges which were located in the middle of the East Continent.

Gluttony's voice remained as composed as ever, -Relax, User. You can be excited once you find out the situation we are in.

"…Okay, let's work this out."

Theodore suppressed his emotions. He had learned from their past few years of knowing each other that it was useless to argue against beings who didn't have human emotions. After his head cooled, Theodore opened his mouth again, "Yes, so what happened to Death's Worship that was taken out of the inventory? Surely, you didn't miss it?"

Death's Worship was a grimoire that could turn the whole continent into a kingdom of death. Theodore wouldn't be qualified to be called a hero if he hadn't managed to keep the grimoire.

Theodore was tense, but Gluttony dispelled his concerns.

–I naturally got it. The struggle was a bit intense, but I got it right before the space transfer. However, the grimoire will be more cautious and quicker when using space distortion next time.

"The same trick won't be successful… Still, the biggest worry is gone. It is fortunate."

Zest might have died in the explosion which occurred afterward, but Theodore's logic denied that optimistic conjecture. Magnus' last blow was defeated by Zest, so Theodore couldn't be confident that a sword master or great magician would've died from the explosion. If it were so easy to kill Zest, Zest would've lost his head to Veronica or Blundell previously.

'Well, isn't this situation good?'

Theodore was on the East Continent, so Zest couldn't threaten him. He looked down at his left hand with cold eyes and returned to the story.

"Everything else is minor. I want a complete explanation about how we arrived here on the East Continent."

–Okay, Gluttony accepted Theodore's words and started explaining, –When we escaped using Death's Worship's space warp, I could see that it randomly moved without a destination. If it was left alone, you could've been destroyed somewhere on the ground or the sea.

"So?"

–I intervened in his magic and placed other coordinates into the formula. I used the causal string attached to User.

It was a memory that Theodore had forgotten.

"Don't tell me the quest…?"

–That's correct.

Lee Yoonsung had wanted to go home once, and Gluttony had used this covenant as a vehicle. Gluttony was a parasitic entity in Theodore's left hand and had no direct ability to do magic, so it could only interfere with the coordinates by using Theodore's relationships. In that case, Gluttony couldn't be blamed for this situation.

"…Dammit, I brought this on myself," Theodore grumbled reflexively.

However, Gluttony returned with an unexpected answer, –Hmm, I don't think the situation is that bad.

"What?"

–There are no threats to User around here, so can't you rest until your circles' overload is gone? You can also complete the quest, so it is effective in many ways.

Gluttony's words weren't wrong. Theodore needed time to stabilize his circles, and it would be best if he could resolve the quest during that time as well. However, Gluttony's view of the situation was also different. It wasn't tied down by relationships with other beings and thus had come to an unemotional conclusion.

"Gluttony, you… Eh?"

Then Theodore was suddenly confused by something.

"Why are you going to sleep already?" He asked as he felt the surface consciousness of Gluttony start to sink downward.

Gluttony barely managed to answer in a sleepy voice, –In the process of interfering with Death's Praise… I used a lot of power. For the time being… waking up, it is hard… maybe.

"How long until you recover?"

–A week if it is short… a fortnight if it is longer.

Then Gluttony fell silent after that. Theodore was left with a blank face as his companion departed. No, it wasn't just Theodore's expression but his mind as well. Having suddenly appeared on the East Continent, Theodore couldn't think about what to do with this absurd situation.

Then he someone's voice say, "Ah, you're finally up!"

It was a bright and cheerful voice, and it sounded like it belonged to someone who still had yet to reach adulthood. Theodore turned his gaze and saw a young girl with braided hair. She looked like she was barely over 15, but he couldn't help feeling a sense of déjà vu.

'Who is she?' Theodore looked at her with a confused expression.

The girl smiled while scratching her head. "Heheh, can you speak Chinese?"

"…I can."

"Wow! Your pronunciation is very old-fashioned!"

It couldn't be helped. It had been over a hundred years ago when Lee Yoonsung had been alive, so the pronunciation of those times would feel old-fashioned now. The cheerful girl smiled brightly at Theodore and bowed. "My name is Lee Seol. You are in the cabin where I have been living for a while. I found you collapsed on the ground!"

"T-Thank you for your help." Theodore couldn't endure the gaze of her shining eyes and eventually stepped back. He had overcome sword masters and a dragon's threats, but this was the first time he was being pushed back by a person's atmosphere. Were these shining eyes the eyes of a child looking forward to a birthday party…? The girl said her name was Lee Seol.

Then the reason for her enthusiasm was soon revealed.

"This is the first time I have seen a foreigner since I was born. I read about it in books, but you are much more handsome than I imagined!"

"Miss Lee Seol, you are pretty enough."

"Kyah, your words are also great! Please keep calling me Miss Lee Seol. It is different from usual, so I feel good. It is an experience I can't get anywhere else. Now, let's go inside and talk some more!"

Theodore was able to read curiosity, longing, and anticipation in her clear eyes. However, despite her young age and bright outer facade, she had something deep and dark inside of her. Yet she was someone who had picked him up from the ground and moved him to a bed, as well as taken care of him.

Theodore thought up to there and immediately realized, ' …Indeed, there was a reason for the déjà vu.'

The cabin where Theodore slept for days resembled the one in his memories exactly.

The cabin where Lee Yoonsung had lived for many years after being kicked out of his family overlapped with this one. It had aged and been repaired over the years, but the arrangement of the foundation stones and the pillars hadn't changed.

It was naturally a place which would cause him to feel déjà vu.

"Hey, aren't you coming in?"

"I'm coming now."

Theodore entered the cabin with a wry smile. This was where Lee Yoonsung had stayed a long time ago.

* * *

Later that night…

Wuuuong~

The wind became cooler when the sun rose. As Theodore enjoyed the wind on his skin, he recalled the face of the girl he met a while ago.

Lee Seol, the girl with the name which meant 'snow,' was brimming with curiosity and never seemed to get tired. Judging from Lee Seol's behavior, the saying that Eastern people were closed off to the West seemed to be false. If Baek Dongil were a little younger and a female, would he have grown up like Lee Seol?

"…I don't know," Theodore murmured as he looked up at the sky.

'I feel closer to the stars here compared to when I'm on a plain.'

Theodore's current location was only a few kilometers higher than the plains, but human senses were easily tricked. The stars studding the dark sky drove away the darkness. It was a view different from the Western landscape, but he couldn't help feeling like he was being welcomed home.

"Excuse me," Theodore couldn't help but say, "Do you have anything to say to me, Senior?"

From the moment that he met Lee Seol, Theodore had felt that Lee Yoonsung's consciousness had woken up inside him. Lee Yoonsung coughed a few times before speaking, –Cough, cough. Since when did you notice?

"Since the beginning."

-…You have grown a lot. I don't know where my obedient junior has gone.

"That is a useless story, Senior." Theodore changed the topic. "Did you think I wouldn't notice? Lee Seol is clearly your direct descendant."

–Sigh. It is impossible not to notice.

The two people sighed together.

"You're so immature."

-You're so immature.

Theodore didn't know what had happened over the years, so he couldn't harshly rebuke Lee Yoonsung. Lee Yoonsung might've been banished, but he was a direct descendant of the Lee family and its deceased patriarch. It didn't matter if he wasn't recognized by the Lee family. He was just sad because he didn't know the facts.

–I'm really sorry, Junior, Lee Yoonsung said bitterly. He thought it would be a great honor to leave for the sake of his descendants in the distant future, but he didn't know about human greed.

Why was the girl, Lee Seol, living in this cabin? Lee Yoonsung wondered what had happened to the Lee Family. He was so curious that he remained in this modern age. However, before Lee Yoonsung could speak, Theodore interrupted and said, "I understand."

-…What?

"You don't have to say anymore. I understand. I will take care of that child and find out the answers to your questions. Until then, remain inside me and don't disappear."

He couldn't allow the incident with Satomer to happen again. Satomer had missed the moment when his dream became a reality. As a magician, how could Theodore not understand this lamentation? Theodore had seen the passion of Satomer, who had continued to study magic until the moment he died. So, there was still a burn mark left behind on Theodore's heart by Satomer.

He wouldn't allow the same bitter thing to happen again. Theodore had made a vow. Lee Yoonsung was speechless after hearing Theodore's determination. Theodore wanted him to stay until the completion of the quest, so Lee Yoonsung couldn't deny Theodore that. Lee Yoonsung would leave only when he had nothing left behind.

Indeed, Theodore chose the hard way. The great people who became Theodore's strength… He couldn't betray them.

-…Thank you, Theodore Miller. Lee Yoonsung resented that he couldn't bend his knees and bow to express his gratitude.

"You don't have to do that. I will just be embarrassed.�� Theodore received the appreciation and watched the sky above the mountains which he would never get tired of.

This area had good air and a good environment. Tomorrow, he would go down the mountain and buy some meat. His diet couldn't change while living in this cabin. Moreover, Theodore's dimensional pocket had enough money to buy this mountain village a hundred times over.

…And besides, what could happen at this mountain cabin?

* * *

The next morning, Theodore saw some uninvited people climbing toward the cabin, and he sighed.

Chapter 243 – Where is This (3)

It was clear they weren't coming with good intentions.

Did they come to this mountain to search for a girl who wasn't even 16 yet? Theodore didn't think they were here to promote friendship.

Among them, there was a bald man at the front who seemed to have an inflated sense of ego. Theodore watched them secretly and guessed their intentions.

'Of course, there is no killing intent. From the very beginning, they didn't come to fight. Perhaps they are coming to make a sense of crisis…? I don't know why, but their purpose is to threaten Lee Seol.'

It was a too accurate an analysis for a person who didn't know the situation very well. Theodore looked out the window with cool eyes as his insight had increased beyond the norm. At this moment, Lee Seol ran out of the cabin and started to confront the men. If Theodore's analysis was correct, then he should go outside to help organize the situation.

"You! Daring to come to the Baekun Mountains without the permission of the mountain god… Do you not fear his wrath?"

The difference in Lee Seol's attitude toward Theodore and the group of men was astronomical. Her face filled with anger as she yelled at the men without hesitation. A few people were overwhelmed by her spirit and took a few steps back.

However, the bald-headed man, who seemed to be the leader, stepped forward instead of backward. "Girl, you shouldn't act all grown up. Should the descendant of a prestigious family be shouting so loudly?"

A normal girl would burst out crying, but Lee Seol just snapped at him with sharp eyes, "If you know who I am, why are you concealing your name like a rat? I'm not a timid person!"

"Huhu, you are trying to lecture me? Don't regret it after asking me." The bald-headed person pulled out a sword and slammed it against the ground with a loud noise. It was impressive since the sword had a considerable weight, causing the hard ground to become dented like clay.

The bald man showed a menacing power and shouted in a timely manner, "I am the knight who cut off the head of the ferocious tiger! Crushing Knife, Sir Wang Hochul!"

The other man cheered in response, and the big guys shouted, shaking their weapons. An average person would feel fear from this act, but Lee Seol just clicked her tongue like it was absurd.

"Yes, yes. So, you are a passerby?"

"This girl! You should speak more politely to your guests!"

"Are you saying that you're not a passerby? By the way, can you tell me what you came here for?"

They proclaimed to be guests, but Wang Hochul and his men were the ones who had come here with weapons. There was only one reason why they would come to see Lee Seol: someone hired them and directed them here.

"No, you don't have to answer. It is my maternal uncle."

Wang Hochul was shocked that his client had been discovered and cried out, "What? If so, do you know why we have come?"

"Of course. It has been a few years already."

"Then this conversation will be fast. Girl, what proof do you have of the mountain spirit? My employer said that she will pay five gold coins, so it is better for you to come quietly, then you won't get hurt," Wang Hochul threatened Lee Seol.

"I don't want to."

"What?!"

"Don't you know that there is nothing that can touch me on this mountain? It would be better if you don't think about dragging me away with force."

A few people stiffened upon hearing her words but not Wang Hochul. He'd already heard from his employer that the Baekun Mountain helped the one who was living here. The rumor was that if he tried to hurt Lee Seol, the mountain spirits would come immediately to tear him and his men to death.

However, Wang Hochul didn't believe in that rumor.

"This girl…!! If you don't follow me right away, I will smash your house!"

"…What?"

"I can't touch you, but your house is different. If you don't have a place to eat and sleep, you will have to come down the mountain."

Before Lee Seol could react, Wang Hochul raised his sword and moved toward the cabin. It was a house which had survived over a hundred years, but it would obviously collapse if it were hit a few times with a big sword. Furthermore, there was currently a guest staying in the cabin!

Lee Seol belatedly thought of Theodore and screamed hurriedly, "W-Wait a minute!"

"It is too late to say that!"

The moment Wang Hochul was about to swing his sword at a pillar…

Kwack!

The blade got stuck on something, and Wang Hochul quickly noticed something strange. So far, he had swung his sword for decades. As such, even with his eyes closed, he could see the blade sticking into wood.

However, something was wrong. Wang Hochul opened his eyes and met the gaze of two blue eyes. Theodore blocked the blade with the palm of his hand and said, "You attacked."

"…Y-Yes?!"

"You attacked me, and I was just defending myself. Am I wrong?"

"T-That's right."

Wang Hochul didn't know what he was saying. He wondered why a Westerner was standing before him, blocking his sword with the palm of his hand. Furthermore, he also wondered why the Westerner could speak fluent ancient Chinese.

All types of questions swirled in his mind, and he remained silent. Therefore, Wang Hochul didn't really listen to the words which came right afterward.

"Then this is self-defense."

A flash emerged from Theodore's finger. Peeok!

Wang Hochul couldn't even scream as he flew back a few meters. He was an aura user, but he couldn't react to the attack. So, he was no different from a scarecrow. When Wang Hochul flew into his men, they scattered. This was proof of the huge impact Theodore caused.

"U-Uh, what is this…?" One henchman asked, barely managing to raise his body.

However, instead of replying, Theodore raised a hand. Simultaneously, dozens or hundreds of lights floated behind him, distorting the atmosphere. It was Magic Missile. This was a 1st Circle attack magic, but it contained huge destructive power if a magician of Theodore's level used it.

It was also a variant developed by Alfred, so Magic Missile didn't fall behind other top-grade spells. Instead, it meant that these lousy aura users wouldn't be able to endure them.

"There is no point telling you my name," Theodore declared to the flinching henchmen. "If you keep staying in the Baekun Mountains, I will make you pay the price of your leader's disrespect to Lee Seol."

"H-Hiik!"

They didn't need to ask what would happen. The Magic Missiles floating behind Theodore could break their bones with one hit. Immediately, they took Wang Hochul and disappeared from sight. They might go into hiding somewhere in the Baekun Mountains, but they would die by Theodore's hands if they appeared again.

Theodore watched them leave before looking back. 'Well, it is natural to react this way.'

Lee Seol was staring at Theodore with a frown, like she didn't understand the current situation. Theodore tried to lighten the atmosphere by speaking, "I would like to hear about your situation. Is that okay?"

After all, he was a third party who had gotten involved. Lee Seol recognized this fact and nodded. It seemed like today's breakfast would be skipped.

"Let's go inside."

Theodore followed Lee Seol back into the cabin. Unlike last night, she sat before Theodore now with a polite manner which was suitable for the descendant of a prestigious family.

"I am the 14th generation of the Fairy Dance Lee family, a family that has protected the Baekun Mountains for generations. Before I get into the story, I would like to thank you for your help earlier."

"No, it could've been avoided even if I wasn't present."

"They might not have harmed me, but this cabin would've been destroyed. There are a lot of memories in this place. Thanks to you, it is safe," Lee Seol said, giving a deep bow. Then she lifted her head and continued the story, "They are probably people hired by my maternal uncle."

"Why do such a thing…?"

"In order to understand, I have to go back to the past."

This was the main point, so Theodore listened along with Lee Yoonsung.

The Fairy Dance Lee family…

They had protected the Baekun Mountains long before Lee Yoonsung had been born, and he wanted to know what had happened. The story they were told was shocking.

* * *

It was said that over a hundred years ago, a man who had been expelled from the family had returned to the Baekun Mountains.

Despite being a direct descendant, he had been expelled due to a birth defect. However, he had mastered the family's techniques to an exceptional level through other methods. He had carried the Lee family name and laughed at those who ridiculed him. There had been a duel, but he had won.

This had been when the schism in the Fairy Dance Lee family had begun.

"Someone questioned the situation. Could a loser who had fallen to his knees lead this family?"

It was truly an absurd accusation. At the time, there had been no one who was more superior than the head of the family in the attribute of strength. There would've been no problem if the head had stood up again and showed his strength.

However, the 6th generation head, Lee Ingwang, had given up. He hadn't been able to withstand the insult of being an incompetent leader and loser, so he had stepped back from his position as head of the family.

This helpless compliance had caused the biggest problem.

"It wasn't a proper resignation, so the line of succession couldn't flow properly. The candidates eligible to become the head of the family tore each other apart, and the Lee family split into several factions."

"Then your maternal uncle…"

"Yes, he currently leads the largest faction in the divided Fairy Dance Lee family." Lee Seol made a bitter expression as she put down her mug. "I inherited the role of 'keeper' of this mountain. The origin of the Fairy Dance Lee family is in the Baekun Mountain, and my maternal uncle wants to negotiate or forcefully take it away."

She didn't explain any further. However, Theodore had Lee Yoonsung's memories, so he knew what a 'keeper' was. A keeper was the guardian of the Baekun Mountain, and the intermediary between a human and spirit.

It wasn't a burden which could be held by someone greedy. Even if Lee Seol's uncle received the 'keeper's token,' the spirits of the mountain wouldn't recognize his qualifications. Instead, there might be a war between humans and the spirits of the Baekun Mountains.

Unfortunately, Lee Seol was more talented than her peers and looked ahead into the future. Despite being only 16, she lived in the mountains to prevent a war. She didn't want to see the death of her clan.

"This is the only explanation I can give you. From this point on, it is a matter for my family, and foreigners can't get involved."

"Foreigner… is it?"

"Yes, I don't want to cause you any more trouble over this." Lee Seol was sincere.

A guest had come from a distant place, and the stories they had discussed were interesting.

Theodore's presence was a breath of fresh air to her, who couldn't leave the Baekun Mountains. They were stories from across the sea. Sceneries which couldn't be seen in any book and adventures which couldn't be read… They all flowed out of Theodore's mouth.

If possible, she wanted Theodore to stay a few more days.

'If my uncle finds out about the existence of the foreigner… he will surely do something. I have to send him away before that.'

Lee Seol put away her greed. Her heart was that of a pure adult. Her kindness that thought about others instead of fulfilling her own private greed might be something she had learned from the spirits of this mountain that raised her.

Theodore answered without any hesitation, "I'm not a foreigner."

"Huh?"

"Come outside."

Theodore left the cabin without waiting for her answer, while Lee Seol followed with a bewildered expression. He wasn't a foreigner…? From the color of his hair to his place of birth, Theodore had nothing in common with Lee Seol. They were both humans, but it was far-fetched to base it just on that.

Theodore ignored her and stood in the open.

'Senior.' From here on out, it wasn't Theodore Miller's turn. 'Give your descendant a good show.'

–Yes.

It was time for Lee Yoonsung, the man who was a stigma in the history of the Fairy Dance Lee family, to prove himself. There was no need to use Overwrite. Theodore's body was the embodiment of Battle Song, and he had experience with martial arts. Therefore, it was only a mild transition of consciousness.

After a hundred years, Lee Yoonsung once again stepped onto the ground of his home.

Kung!

They were powerful steps. Footprints were carved on the ground with each of his steps. Meanwhile, Lee Seol's eyes widened at the sensation. "Ah…!"

Each step exuded pressure. This was the kind of pressure she felt from her father, but it was more intense and perfect. It was a form which existed in the Fairy Dance Lee family's martial arts, the base of their martial arts.

"…Your body has become well-trained in the meantime. This should be enough to use it."

Theodore—no, Lee Yoonsung admired the body of his junior. It wasn't easy for a magician to have physical abilities like these. Unless he was a mixed race like Veronica, it would be impossible without training every day.

Huuk!

A hand stretched out. It didn't stick to the air. Instead, it flowed through the air like a leaf riding the wind. It was more appropriate to call this a dance, rather than martial arts. He stood on his toes and stretched out his fist, then his palm moved through the air. The beginning and end points of his movement weren't clear, making it seem mysterious.

'It doesn't distinguish between attack, defense, and evasion…!' Theodore watched from the depths of his consciousness and felt admiration toward Lee Yoonsung.

Then Theodore focused his senses. If he could follow even half of the skill that Lee Yoonsung was showing now, his martial arts ability would double. He was deep in the depths of ignorance, but he wasn't foolish enough to not drink the water in the lake.

It might've been an hour or the period of a single meal. This haze caused him to forget the flow of time as Theodore's body moved through a hundred years.

Tears started falling from Lee Seol's eyes. It was a martial art which her bloodline had forgotten, and her heart wasn't prepared to see the culmination of it in front of her. As a martial artist, she couldn't help being completely overwhelmed.

"Huoong…" As Theodore calmed his breathing, Lee Seol fell to her knees without hesitation. Then she gave a deep bow. Her eyes showed a clear conviction. "I am Lee Seol, from the Fairy Dance Lee family's 14th generation. Please forgive this stupid child's rudeness."

"Raise your head."

"Yes." Lee Seol obediently raised her head and looked at Theodore.

Lee Yoonsung gazed at her and said, "Yes, you have the role of the keeper?"

"I am still lacking."

"I'm not trying to blame you. Rather, I want to praise you. I am truly impressed by your dedication to the role of the keeper despite your young age, as well as your actions to prevent anger between the mountain spirits and our family."

He wanted to stroke her head, but this body belonged to Theodore. Lee Yoonsung tried to suppress his own hopes. He thought he had been disillusioned with his whole family, but he could shake off his resentment if there was this girl.

Despite having been abandoned by his father and having left for a distant kingdom, the beauty of the Baekun Mountains and his affection for the land of his home hadn't blurred.

"You already know my name, but I will once again introduce myself," Theodore said. Then with Lee Yoonsung in his mind, Theodore firmly declared, "I am Theodore Miller, a descendant of the Fairy Dance Lee family and a direct descendant of Lee Yoonsung. I will put an end to this fighting."

Chapter 244 – Where is This (4)

Theodore was the one who had declared that he would subdue the fighting in the Fairy Dance Lee family. However, unlike his aspirations, Theodore couldn't move immediately.

There had been the incidents of unreasonable summoning magic and intercontinental space movement, so his circles had been overworked. If he confronted a proper master, he would be killed instantly.

In the meantime, he had to focus on restoring his body.

Theodore set his course of action and focused on sealing the cracks in his wounded body, breathing in the mana of the Baekun Mountains. He looked himself over calmly and saw his torn body.

'…It is literally a wreck,' Theodore sighed as he diagnosed his condition. 'I can use 5th Circle magic without difficulty, but there will be a burden on my body at the 6th Circle. It is also impossible to use 7th Circle magic. If I use it carelessly, my heart, as well as my circles, will be torn.'

As Gluttony said, it was fortunate that he had some time to rest. He now had enough time to care for his body and not use any magic.

The Baekun Mountains was a spiritual land filled with mana. Magicians were several times stronger than normal here, and the speed of recovery was incomparably faster. Now, Theodore didn't want to stay anywhere else.

He had first guessed that he would recover in two months, but if he stayed in this land, he would be able to recover in one month. In that case, Theodore wouldn't waste that time.

-As you know, the Moving Clouds and Flowing Water has its foundation in martial arts, but you shouldn't be caught up in this concept. Clouds can change color and scatter rain and lightning, while water can sometimes be rougher than a wildfire. The Fairy Dance combines both flow and softness.

If he couldn't use magic, then he would train in something else. For three hours a day, Theodore would work to restore his circles. Then he would train in the Fairy Dance with Lee Yoonsung.

He might not be able to use aura, but Lee Yoonsung was the remaining person who had the best understanding of the Fairy Dance in this age. An opportunity to learn directly from him was worth 1,000 gold.

–The Fairy Dance can be divided into four types of hidden techniques.

According to Lee Seol, only two of these hidden techniques were left in this age. It was because each faction had one hidden technique, only to let it die out. Lee Yoonsung learned of this reality and taught them to Theodore.

–1st hidden technique, Moon Breaking through the Clouds.

The moonlight leaked through cracks in the clouds and scattered them. A stealthy and sharp attack, made by stirring both arms in the air, shot out. What powered it if mana wasn't used? Theodore's eyes became foggy as he followed the theory.

–2nd hidden technique, Rain like an Axle.

The scattered clouds would suddenly pour rain. Just like heavy rain pouring from the sky, a quick hand gesture swept quickly in front of Theodore. It wasn't a flood but more like raindrops piercing through a rock.

The blow was stiff and heavy. By this time, it had already become a series of continuous attacks.

–3rd hidden technique, Fierce Wind and Rain.

The true value of the hidden techniques appeared from here. The origin of the Fairy Dance was that each move wasn't independent; they had to be connected together in order to exert their power. There would be a gale of wind swirling around the clouds to produce the heavy rain.

Hwiooo, wind really blew from between Lee Yoonsung's two palms. Despite not feeling any qi, there was no doubt about the wind. However, this was covered by feelings of wonder, as seeing it appear in front of him caused him to feel great pleasure.

Finally, there was the finishing move.

'Boundary of Heaven and Earth.'

Theodore and Lee Seol were looking forward to it, but Lee Yoonsung was uncertain. As he concentrated, the wind passing by stopped and the mountain birds stopped singing.

"…Hrmm, it is up to here." Lee Yoonsung released his posture.

"Esteemed elder? What is it?" Lee Seol called out to him in a confused manner. Then Lee Yoonsung smiled bitterly with Theodore's body. "You can just call me by name."

"Elder T-Taodoru?"

"That is a little bit wrong… The pronunciation is hard. Just call me Theo. I am unfamiliar with Eastern forms of respect."

Lee Seol's expression showed that she didn't understand, and she looked down like she was really sorry. She thought she had been rude to the elder who had come here. Lee Yoonsung treated it casually, but Theodore wasn't used to such formal behavior and his stomach hurt.

When Theodore soon got his body back, he sighed. "Let's go down. The sun will set soon."

"Yes, Elder Theo."

"You can remove the elder."

The two people chattered as they headed down the path. It was about what side dishes would be on the table this evening…

And about the stars which were only visible from a certain peak on the mountains.

Theodore had always been at the center of a battlefield, so this laid-back conversation was pleasant. He wanted to meet a spiritual being, but it seemed like he had to go through some type of procedure or ceremony to meet them.

So, he would talk about it again when it came time to leave the Baekun Mountains. Just when Theodore was watching the cabin in the distance…

"…Seol."

"Yes! Eld, no, Sir Theo!"

He ignored the way she called him and asked softly, "Do you have any idea what is in front of the cabin right now?"

"Huh? What is it… Ah!" Lee Seol belatedly looked at the cabin and shouted with surprise. It didn't seem to be a face she knew, but her expression wasn't good. There was another reason why Theodore was wary.

'An uncanny presence. It is like the intensity of a fire and river… I haven't felt something like this before.'

He didn't know who the two uninvited guests were, but it wouldn't be easy if there was a fight. His super sensitivity gave him an ambiguous warning. Soon afterward, Theodore and Lee Seol arrived at the cabin and met with the uninvited guests.

The first one to speak was not Theodore but Lee Seol.

"Why have you come here, Uncle?" She spoke firmly, but the tone of respect was just on the surface.

The man she called Uncle frowned at her greeting. "You are too rude! You are the keeper of this mountain, not a wild animal. Your uncle has come a long way, but you can even say 'Hello'?"

"Didn't you send someone else to greet me just a while ago? I don't know what type of greeting you want me to give now."

"That was my last consideration. I was doing you a favor, but you kicked it away. So, I have to come here personally."

Lee Seol replied in a cold manner, "Favor? The master of the honorable Fairy Dance Lee family is a deceiver. Leave if you just came here to speak meaningless lies."

"Y-You cheeky girl! Yes, then I'll do what you want!" Lee Seol's uncle, Lee Inyoung, stepped back.

Then he gestured to the person accompanying him, who looked quite unique. They wore old-fashioned clothing with the pattern of a snake embroidered in gold thread, and it moved over the clothes like it was a living thing.

The clothing was strange, but it was the person's face that looked more unusual. Black linen completely covered their face.

'I can't see through that cloth. There is a strange magic on it.' Theodore observed the person.

Then an unexpected voice spoke out from under the cloth with the gentle voice of a woman. "Hello everybody. I am a notary from the Imperial Family, who has been commissioned to observe the proceedings of the trial, Shim Samho."

"Notary?"

Unlike the confused Theodore, Lee Seol immediately understood the implications of the words.

"A notary from the Imperial Family! Uncle, are you thinking about a duel trial?"

"Kuhaha, it is as you said!" Lee Inyoung gave a disgusting laugh. "Even though we aren't as prominent as we used to be, our family is one of the pillars of the empire. Therefore, His Majesty wants to clear up this internal conflict. You do know that no one can resist his decision, right?"

"…The preliminary discussion is over."

"That's right. If the notary here professes my victory, the Fairy Dance Lee family will be one like it was before! There is no need to be tied up by the archaic tradition of having a keeper for this mountain!"

Hearing this, Theodore stepped forward in order to protect Lee Seol. While Lee Inyoung was displeased with his action, Theodore emitted the presence which he had been suppressing.

Kuooooh!

The pressure of gravity multiplied. Lee Seol couldn't feel it from behind Theodore, but the two people facing Theodore could feel the pressure directly. Theodore was a 7th Circle magician. Moreover, his body contained a few divinities and dragon's blood, so this pressure was like a mental attack.

"H-Heoook!" Lee Inyoung turned pale despite being an excellent aura user, while the notary didn't move. No, nobody could see her reaction. Like Theodore, she stepped forward, smiling underneath the piece of cloth. She didn't look like she was affected by his pressure at all.

'She is the real danger, not Lee Seol's uncle.' Theodore raised his vigilance.

She casually opened her mouth, "Calm your anger, guest from a distant place."

"Before that, I want to hear something from you."

"Me?"

Indeed, Theodore's eyes shone as he nodded. "I want to know exactly what a duel trial is and how it relates to this child."

"Well, it isn't that hard," Shim Samho responded to the request before starting to explain.

A duel trial…

It was a law enacted after the emperor's ascension, and it referred to a duel presided over by a notary of the Imperial court. The Middle Kingdom was a place where all types of armed forces coexisted, so they weren't allowed to fight indiscriminately. The duel trial was the only opportunity to argue for specific results through force.

Of course, the duel trial wasn't valid if there was no justification. However, once a conclusion was reached, it couldn't be challenged.

Shim Samho then spoke to Lee Seol, "In this case, Lee Inyoung suggested the 'unification of the Fairy Dance Lee family' and the emperor agreed. All other faction members except for Lee Seol have already joined Lee Inyoung's faction."

"…So, this child has to fight those forces alone?"

"Ah, that isn't it. The goal is to create as fair a trial as possible, so it will be a one-on-one duel."

"How ridiculous."

'Fair? A child of 16 is facing a giant force alone, but this is fair?' Theodore scoffed and denied it.

However, he was an outsider in this country and couldn't overturn the laws set by the Imperial court. It was easy to escape with Lee Seol, but this would destroy her efforts of having protected the mountain for all this time.

In order to protect the Baekun Mountains, Lee Inyoung's ambitions had to be restrained.

'It is a situation where I have to achieve both of those things.'

There was only one option in which this would be possible.

"Notary, did you say you were Shim Samho?"

"Yes."

"I will participate in the duel on behalf of this child."

Shim Samho wasn't surprised.

However, Lee Inyoung immediately protested, "This is ridiculous! I don't know who you are, but this is a matter regarding our Fairy Dance Lee family! There is no room for a foreign to enter a duel trial notarized by the Imperial Court!"

"…Is that right?"

"Yes."

In response to Theodore's question, Shim Samho nodded. The intervention of uninvolved parties wasn't permitted in the duel trial.

It wasn't an area where a notary could interfere, since it was something only the emperor could do. Lee Seol's expression became grouchy, while Lee Inyoung looked elated, certain of his victory.

Maybe it was his own delusion.

"Then I will prove my qualifications."

Before anyone could respond, Theodore's left hand aimed toward Shim Samho.

Pang! There was the sound of wind bursting out. If it hit the human body, bones would break. However, Shim Samho didn't show any reaction. She just looked at the palm which stopped before her.

This lasted until she heard the words that Lee Inyoung spoke right afterward, "M-Moon Breaking through the Clouds…? H-How can a Westerner have the technique that our family lost…?"

It was over with that. Theodore laughed at Lee Inyong's reaction and lowered his left hand. If Lee Inyoung hadn't responded like this, things would've become much more troublesome. However, as a greedy person, Lee Inyoung had no choice but to respond to this.

After all, this was a missing hidden technique. Lee Inyoung just admitted it with his own mouth that Theodore wasn't an outsider in this duel trial.

"Hah, so it is like this." Shim Samho recognized Theodore's intentions and smiled. "You can't be an outsider if you can use this hidden technique. As the notary of this duel trial, I recognize your qualifications. What is your name?"

"Theodore Miller."

"Theodore Miller… Yes, I have recorded it. The trial date will be a fortnight from now. If you have a reason to postpone it, the duel trial can be postponed to a month later."

Lee Inyoung listened to the conversation of the two people and proceeded to interrupt belatedly. However, he was too shocked by the terrifying presence that Theodore gave off, so Lee Inyoung was too late.

He felt desperate at the thought of his goal being taken away.

"Notary! He is a shaman! How can a foreign shaman participate in the duel trial that will determine the fate of the Fairy Dance Lee family's unification?!"

"I have also thought about that."

Theodore inwardly laughed and rebutted the argument, "As Lee Inyoung said, I am a foreigner. I have no claims on this land. So, if I win, they will be given to Lee Seol. Oh, I also won't use any magic except for strengthening my body during the duel. If I break this condition, it will be my loss."

"Huhu, you are thorough. According to your words, there is no reason to refuse."

"E-Even so!" Lee Inyoung couldn't accept it.

So, Shim Samho glared at him with cold eyes. She was a person who had easily endured Theodore's pressure. The expression of her irritation shut the mouth of Lee Inyoung, who was 'only' an expert.

"Don't be mistaken. I'm not organizing this duel to your liking. I just came to notify you of the duel trial. You should stop thinking of your own convenience."

"Kuuack…"

Shim Samho gracefully stopped Lee Inyoung's mouth and bowed politely to Theodore. Then she said goodbye with that thick voice, "I will contact you again later with the place and time. Then may the two of you be at peace until the reunion in a fortnight."

Chapter 245 – The Rightful Heir (1)

The deadline of a fortnight that the notary had given Theodore wasn't a long time, but it wasn't short either. Theodore healed his body while breathing regularly in the Baekun Mountains, and he was getting better day by day.

The absurd recovery wasn't just due to the Baekun Mountains. It was also due to the efficiency of the Fairy Dance which Theodore had been training in for the past month.

There was one aspect of the Fairy Dance which he hadn't noticed until now. It was a secret technique to circulate his blood with fewer movements. In this era, it was just a simple training exercise, but it was beneficial for Theodore who was deeply wounded.

The cracks in his circles were like rice paddies in the midst of a drought. However, the Fairy Dance restored the broken blood vessels and accelerated Theodore's recovery. Even Gluttony couldn't help commenting on his speedy recovery.

–Amazing. Eastern shamanism is neglected because there are many places that aren't systematic. However, I didn't know it would reach such an irrational area beyond rationality, Gluttony muttered in a strange voice about a theory it had never considered before.

The basis of shamanism was ultimately a denial of rationality.

In mathematics, a theory referred to the act of finding the laws of this material world and establishing a system. Until now, all magic had been born or developed based on this theory. Only a very small number of spells imitated the power of a god, demon, or dragon.

However, Gluttony recognized it as the pinnacle of magic.

–Theories based on rationality are bound to have limits. The ignorant draw boundaries and focus within those boundaries, rather than thinking about going outside them. The efficient guidelines that are the driving force behind the development of civilization is actually a barrier to transcendence.

In a sense, it is a laughable story. In ancient times, people didn't know astronomy and didn't think the stars in the night sky were that far away.

There is a saying that the ignorant are brave. The meaning might be a little different, but I can say that they are right. As humans gained knowledge, they realized the limit of 'recklessness.' They can't reach the stars no matter how high they jump, and humans can't conquer the sun.

If possible, challenge it. If it is impossible, don't challenge it.

Magic is a power based on rational values, but shamanism is a power that doesn't stop irrational challenges.

Gluttony admired the shamanism which healed Theodore's body now. It was a force which caused phenomena that couldn't be defined with theory. In spite of magic overwhelming it in overall ability, in some fields, shamanism managed to reach areas which ancient magicians had given up on.

Theodore thought about the matter, 'Shamanism… I am on the East Continent, so it wouldn't be bad to look at it.'

–Good decision, User.

He had been thinking about it since practicing the Fairy Dance. Unlike the aura method which differed from magic, a magician could learn a lot from Eastern magic. Although he had only learned two of Lee Yoonsung's hidden techniques, his physical abilities and mana control had increased dramatically.

It wasn't enough to tap on the wall of the 8th Circle, but if he kept stacking it up one by one like this, he would see the benefits one day.

'If possible, I want to learn Shukuchiho before I leave.'

The magic which White Tower Master Orta had used to move a few kilometers instantly was really attractive. If Theodore could use it, he would be able to run away even if he faced someone strong like Zest.

Theodore was thinking this when he felt someone approaching and opened his eyes. It was a presence he had become accustomed to in the meantime.

"You came quickly. Have you finished the preparations?" Theodore, who had been waiting outside the cabin, looked at Lee Seol. She normally wore shabby clothing running around the mountains, but she couldn't leave like that today. This was a duel trial hosted by the notary, so she would stand out.

"Yes, thank you for your patience, Sir Theo."

She wore fancy clothing and simple makeup, while her expression was serious with no signs of playfulness. This duel trial would influence the future of the Fairy Dance Lee clan.

She seemed to be carrying a heavy burden despite being only 16, but her expression didn't reveal her troubles at all. Theodore would respect that determination. He thought this and headed toward the path down the mountain.

"Then let's go."

"Yes."

With some anxiety and confidence, the girl who protected Baekun Mountain took steady steps. How long had it been since she had gone down the mountains? Nevertheless, Lee Seol didn't stop.

After that, it was a rapid advance.

* * *

According to the notary, Shim Samho, the venue for the duel trial was the Lee Family's main building. Some would ask if having a duel in the mansion was okay, but the Fairy Dance Lee Family would find it insulting.

There was a house with over 10 floors, and the front yard was big enough to hold a parade ground. It was around the time when the sundial was pointing exactly at noon.

"Oh! There! It is the mountain's keeper."

"Is Lee Seol really here?"

"It has been several years since she left the house…"

"That is just the main house. The woodcutters sometimes deliver news to us!"

As the parties of the duel trial, Lee Seol and Theodore arrived, and the villagers gathered around the mansion. They were curious about Theodore's identity, worried about the future, and slandering Lee Inyoung in secret… Theodore was relieved that nobody was saying anything really bad.

For Lee Seol, who was only a child, the crowd's malice could be deadly in many ways. Then the two people were reunited with unwelcome people.

"Fortunately, you aren't late," Shim Samho, wearing the same cloth over her face like last time, greeted Theodore and Lee Seol.

Theodore hid Lee Seol behind him and spoke, "When will the duel begin?"

"Oh, my. Don't be so rushed."

"A long conversation isn't needed. Additionally, please fulfill your promise to protect Lee Seol until the end of the duel trial."

"You are especially cold to me. Well, I understand."

Theodore watched with sober eyes as Shim Samho guided Lee Seol to her seat. According to Lee Seol, there were no masters in the present day Fairy Dance Lee family. This meant they weren't great threats to Theodore who had almost regained his physical condition.

However, the woman called Shim Samho was different. She had a strong, unidentifiable presence which tickled his neck. This feeling was the cause of his alertness.

At that moment, Theodore felt a gaze boring into his back.

'Hoh.'

Theodore turned his eyes in the direction of the gaze and saw someone with Lee Inyoung looking at him. The person was older than Theodore but less than 30 years old. In the East, this person was called a youth, but his capabilities had already reached the peak. Theodore grasped the man's level without much difficulty and was slightly impressed.

However, Lee Yoonsung's reaction was the opposite.

–Hoh, it is so pathetic that I can't say anything.

'What is it?'

–No matter how much the family has decayed, the person who represents the family is a youth who isn't even a master. Far from competing over who will become the master of the Lee Family, he can't even face the ancestral tablets.

'…Really bitter,' Theodore thought inwardly about Lee Yoonsung's spiteful words. The man seemed to be directly related to Lee Inyoung and was a strong person close to being a master while under the age of 30 years old.

Of course, his speed wasn't comparable to Theodore, but it was pointless to compare the masters of the East and the West. However, Lee Yoonsung had complained that the man's level was poor. How strong had the Fairy Dance Lee family been in the old days, and how strong was Lee Yoonsung who had shattered it?

Theodore couldn't even fathom the Fairy Dance Lee family. Shim Samho returned to the center of the empty space soon afterward. "All the participants have arrived. Then is it okay to start the duel trial immediately? Both of you?"

"It doesn't matter to me."

"It also doesn't matter to me."

Theodore answered and walked forward, while the man next to Lee Inyoung came forward as well. The man representing the other side wasn't Lee Inyoung but this man.

Shim Samho noticed Theodore's suspicions and whispered in a low voice, "That is the only son of Lee Inyoung, Lee Joonyoung who is going to participate in this duel trial. Do you want to say 'Hello'?"

"There's no need. I don't feel like igniting a friendship."

It was as he said. Lee Joonyoung's eyes weren't much different from his father's, burning hot with enmity toward Theodore. Theodore didn't know what Lee Inyoung had said, but it had placed Lee Joonyoung in a state of complete hostility toward Theodore.

Theodore rejected Shim Samho's proposal and moved to the open space. It was an unspoken signal that he was ready to fight for anytime.

"You aren't afraid." Lee Joonyoung seemed to be stimulated by his signal and entered the duel arena without hesitation. He had shown his talent since childhood and had been raised as a successor to his prestigious family. This was the Lee Yoonsung who stood facing Theodore.

"Huhu, it seems like your minds are ready. Then in the presence of this notary, Shim Samho, I will enforce the duel trial," Shim Samho said. Then she spread out her palms and ordered, "The two of you, please step away from where you are standing now."

The distance between them was to be 30 meters, so Theodore slowly moved to the edge of the duel arena.

A skill could cover this distance instantly, but right now, Theodore wasn't a magician. He was a man fighting for the leadership of the Fairy Dance Lee Family in place of Lee Seol. It wasn't a close distance when it was a melee fight.

Shortly afterward, the two men faced each other.

"The rules of the duel trial are that you can't use weapons or drugs, you can't have any helpers intervene, and you can't leave this duel arena. If you do any of the above, it will immediately be declared an offense, so please keep this in mind."

Theodore and Lee Joonyoung both nodded and agreed to Shim Samho's words. However, they were distracted because they were watching each other's eyes and movements. The confrontation between the two of them wasn't pleasant as Shim Samho raised a hand.

"Huhu, okay. Then…" She spread open the red fan in her hand and… "-Start!"

All pretensions were omitted as the beginning of the duel trial was declared.

Kuuong!

Of course, it was Lee Joonyoung, confident in his own power, who attacked first. He had yet to enter the realm of a master and couldn't notice Theodore's power, so he wasn't intimidated by Theodore. To think that this foreigner dared step his dirty feet into the place of the Fairy Dance Lee family…?! It was unacceptable to Lee Joonyoung, who had great feelings of patriotism.

'I acknowledge his boldness, but that is it!'

Lee Joonyoung's black robe flapped as his body narrowed the distance between them. This was the footwork of the Fairy Dance Lee Family which had been passed down through generations.

It was like clouds always flowing in the wind. Some masters could even use the footwork to cross the water. Lee Joonyoung hadn't reached that extent yet, but he did narrow the distance in an instant.

His fist moved as fast as lightning.

Kwaang!

He used Thunder Blast. Generally, this was a technique suitable for a preemptive attack which didn't allow counterattacks. As such, Lee Joonyoung's fist approached like lightning. It blurred with a blue aura and was strong enough to crush steel. Theodore wouldn't be able to endure it without using magic.

…This was the moment the audience thought that.

'What?' Theodore had embodied Lee Yoonsung's martial arts many times, so he muttered as he saw the fist, 'This is the extent of the fist?'

Lee Joonyoung's fist didn't move along the flow because he believed in his speed and strength. The power was strong, but this fist wasn't the Fairy Dance. It was just a strong punch which would push many stupid people. It would do a critical hit if the fist struck, but Theodore just sneered and moved.

Then he unfolded his left hand and struck back with:

Fairy Dance's Direct Transmission;

Hand Counterattack Technique;

And Left Palm Lone Peak.

Simultaneously, there was an unexpected noise.

Jeeeong!

It sounded similar to something hitting heavy metal, not a human body.

Lee Joonyoung grabbed his throbbing fist and retreated a few steps back. It was like hitting a wall of adamantium. The fist which had struck Theodore's palm was swollen, and a few fingers looked broken.

However, he gave more priority to his question than his pain.

"…Shaman. You… How did you stop my technique?"

That's right. The presence of aura was absolute in close combat. Theodore's counterattack was exquisite, but he had been hit by a fist filled with aura. So, it was natural that his left hand would've shattered.

However, Theodore's left hand was fine while something white swirled in the middle of it. This was special magic developed as a substitute for aura.

"Ether."

It lagged behind magic power and aura, but the 'density' was complemented by the power of transformation. The disadvantage was that it couldn't be reverted back to magic power, so the consumption was inefficient.

Instead of aura which couldn't be used by magicians, magicians worked to produce an aura-like energy which wouldn't conflict with magic.

"This is a power that my teacher, Lee Yoonsung, accomplished in his life."

It hadn't been enough to learn just Battle Song. Theodore had only been able to use this power after learning the hidden techniques of Fairy Dance. Now, Theodore had inherited all of Lee Yoonsung's techniques.