Chapter 813 - 314 - 321

Chapter 314 – Towards the World Tree (1)

[Lemegeton (Severely Damaged)]

[This is a grimoire that contains the power of King Solomon from the Age of Mythology. King Solomon used his wisdom and magic to rule over 72 great demons, wielding the power of the great demons with ten rings. Additionally, Solomon prepared a seal and key in case of his death.

* This grimoire can't function normally.

* Please note! This grimoire is over 90% damaged. The powers can't be fully absorbed even with predation.

* When ingested, the imprints of the senior great demons 'Nebiros', 'Foras', and 'Flauros' will be acquired. User can borrow their powers from these imprints or demonstrate special powers.

* When consumed, a very large amount of magic power will be absorbed.]

'It is definitely not in a good state.'

More than 90% damaged…? As a book, it was like having all the pages torn out except for one. Even if it was a grimoire, most of its power had already been lost. It was astonishing that so much had been lost. According to Gluttony, it wasn't even performing at 5%, yet it still contained the power of three senior great demons. In a perfect state, Lemegeton must have a myth rating.

-Yes, it is as User guessed, Gluttony confirmed it like it had heard Theodore's thoughts.

"It really has a myth rating?"

-That's right. Some of the great demons who contracted with Solomon had high rank and power.

"Demon king… like Fulito?"

-If I had to compare Fulito with one of the 72 great demons, he is similar to the 7th one, Amon.

"7th?" Theodore's face stiffened.

Fulito was only 7th! If that was true, then Lemegeton had at least seven great demons with more power than a demon king, a transcendent who reigned as the master of one dimension and wielded that world according to his will. It was no wonder that Gluttony reacted to Solomon's name. He was incomparable to Theodore, who had summoned Magnus in the past. What type of existence was Solomon, who had dozens of high-ranking great demons contracted to him?

It seemed like he was beyond the level of a transcendent. No one would argue if Solomon were called the god of magic. However, Gluttony had a different opinion of Solomon.

-No, he was just smart. He became aware of the endless desires of demons and fooled them with a clever contract. There were some demons who were deceived by some tricks, but others knew about it and passed by. Solomon was the summoner who called them. The material world of the Age of Mythology was what attracted their attention.

"They came like a sightseeing group?"

-Your words aren't entirely wrong. For great demons, another dimension is just a place to 'play.'

Pleasure is an inescapable desire for demons who have eternal life. In that sense, Solomon was a spokesman for those desires and the guide of many demons into this material world.

It was the result of talent and timing creating the situation.

[Ahem!] At that moment, the prohibited book didn't grasp the atmosphere and interrupted Gluttony. [My creator, Solomon, is a great man! Many powerhouses in the Age of Mythology fell before him!]

-Shut up, used thing.

[Hiik.]

The prohibited book shut its mouth, and Gluttony began to speak again.

-I wasn't expecting a Baal or Agares class, but this is really terrible. The 24th 'Marquis', the 31st 'Hell Knight', and the 64th 'Great Duke'—they are worthless when it comes to battle strength. That drunkard, Saleos, still remains.

Theodore asked for an explanation, and Gluttony taught him in a disgruntled voice about Solomon's 72 great demons and the power of these three great demons.

Number 24, Marquis Nebiros, was a necromancer and controlled the power of 'Pain.'

Unlike the demon's nickname of 'Knight', Number 31—Hell Knight Foras—was the owner of a vast wisdom and gave the summoning the power of 'transparency.'

Number 64, Great Duke Flauros, possessed the power of 'Burning Eyes', which allowed the owner to shake off the temptations of other demons.

Theodore listened to the explanation in detail and said, "In the middle…"

It wasn't enough to call them bad, but the demons didn't have the ability to help him directly. The teachings of necromancy were of no use to Theodore who wasn't a warlock. Additionally, Gluttony's protections meant that the added bonuses were meaningless as Theodore already had strong mental defenses. The practical powers of 'Transparency', 'Burning Eyes', and 'Pain' were so vague that he didn't know their purpose.

'Well, a powerful demon wouldn't acknowledge me as qualified. Is it okay to compromise to this extent?'

However, Theodore looked at the prohibited book thoughtfully. Looking around at the other shelves, the majority of those present gave off an evil feeling just from the cover. Collecting the fragments of a myth rated grimoire was more appealing, even if it was damaged. More than anything else, he liked that it could exert the functions without predation.

"Hey, prohibited book."

[…Yes?] The Lemegeton fragment responded to Theodore's call.

"Accept me as a temporary contractor. Do you want to be stuck in this sealed room forever?"

[That… Why temporary?]

"I possess so many divinities. How can I make a perfect contract with a demonic grimoire? Besides, if I make a double contract with you, I think there will always be conflict with Gluttony."

The Lemegeton fragment contemplated the words for a while before accepting the suggestion, [Okay, I will accept a contract with you.]

"A wise choice."

The moment that the mutual agreement was decided, a thick strand of magic power formed between Theodore and the prohibited book. It was the magical contract line to symbolize the conclusion of contract magic. The red gem of the Lemegeton fragment and Theodore's right hand were intertwined with a string, then the last process of the contract occurred. It was the disclosure of the grimoire's identity, its true name.

[I was called 'Lemegeton' a long time ago, but I was deprived of its light and crashed to the ground. The first of five locks, the prohibited book whose head is Lemegeton… Until the day that I am perfect again, call me 'Ars Goetia'!]

"Ars Goetia."

[Yes, Master. You can just call me 'Goetia'.]

Theodore picked up Goetia, and the red jewel changed its shape. The thick book transformed into a small silver ring that wrapped around a finger on Theodore's right hand. It was reluctant to be on Theodore's left hand where Gluttony resided.

'Oh, isn't this a convenient feature? The 10 rings that Solomon wore were probably a variant of Lemegeton.'

That wasn't all. Once Goetia turned into a ring, Theodore realized that his casting speed and amount of magic power had risen sharply. The functions of 'sub-ego' and 'secondary operations' that Goetia had mentioned started to show their power. The features were simple, but the level of the secondary operations was excellent.

Of course, Gluttony was still uncomfortable about the contract.

-Hah! Ars Goetia? Is it the name of the first chapter of Lemegeton? You picked it well for being so tattered.

[Hiiik!]

Despite having the same contractor, it was unknown if Gluttony's one-sided abuse of the prohibited book would stop. In the end, Theodore had to intervene. "Gluttony, don't scare it too much. It is too inferior to you."

-Hrmm, I understand.

Theodore walked out of the sealed room while Gluttony suppressed its hostility. Then Theodore closed the door of the room and reset the lock.

Ching! Snap.

The several layers of magic circles overlapped to form a magic spell, and the key in the keyhole faded away. The key to the sealed room was only for one use. Once it was used, it couldn't be used again. Every time the seal was released, the key would change. This tight security was truly the backbone of the kingdom.

'Now, this part is finished. Should I go back?'

With four magic books and one prohibited book, Theodore invoked Teleport. No shadows remained in the Zero Library.

* * *

"―Ah."

"You took a long time."

Theodore discovered an unexpected person when he left the Zero Library. It was a blonde girl with brown skin, Paragranum. Unlike her appearance, she was actually the head of the yellow tower and a grimoire. She had performed numerous studies in the magic kingdom and might've conspired with Invidia.

"Hasn't it been a long time, Captain? I didn't know you would return after facing Envy. I need to increase my evaluation."

Paragranum smiled and placed the fox, that was in her arms, on the ground. The fox had three tails; it was Tres. He was frightened after being caught by Paragranum and rushed toward Theodore the moment he was set free. The warm and fluffy texture entered Theodore's red robe.

Then the fox cried out with relief. Yip, yiip. Even though Tres was young, the intelligence of his spirit was high. He remembered that Paragranum had wanted to dissect him last time.

Theodore stared at Paragranum. "You…"

"Aren't you leaving your pet alone too much? It would've died if it belonged to another magician. If you hadn't come back, this would've become my first spirit specimen."

"What do you want?" Theodore ignored Paragranum's joke that wasn't a joke and stared into her eyes.

Paragranum's eyes held no emotions at all. It was like they were glass beads. He realized it when he saw these eyes. This being was a monster, not a human. She could do anything as long as it achieved her purpose of existence. Theodore was convinced that she had joined hands with Invidia to cause the long war in the north.

"Oh, my. Don't be too wary. You know 'our' ecology. Right now, is there any reason for me to be hostile to Meltor? What benefits can you gain from removing me?"

"No. I have no reason to listen to your words," Theodore replied coldly and took a step back.

Grimoires had no human emotions, as they were things that would interfere with their principles of action. Encountering something like this was like yelling at a wall. If he accused Paragranum of working with Invidia, she would nod without any qualms.

Maybe that was why he decided not to ask. She wasn't an opponent who should be rewarded with his emotions. Theodore cooled his head and stared at the being that, along with Invidia, was the wicked culprit of the slaughter in the north. One side had fostered sword masters and fed on them. The other side acted in order to make her research proceed faster. Grimoires wouldn't hesitate to do any sins if it meant accomplishing their purpose of existence.

"Well, don't be so hasty." Paragranum didn't shrink back at all as she faced the angry Theodore.

Instead, she pulled something out. It was from a shabby looking dimensional pocket.

"That!"

"Isn't it too impressive to forget?"

The item was an emerald jewel in the shape of a cube. It had a perfect balance as light reflected off it. At Paragranum's request, Theodore had recovered it from the ruin in the Meuse Desert. The Emerald Tablet—a treasure that all alchemists praised as the 'Door of Truth'—recorded the truths of the universe. Gluttony had drooled over it, so there was no need to explain its value.

"Now, don't drop it." However, Paragranum threw it casually!

"What are you doing?" Theodore cried out roughly as he grabbed the space pocket and the Emerald Tablet.

Then Paragranum opened her mouth, "Can't I do something kind for others? I've handed over handmade potions, catalysts, and the Emerald Tablet."

"That's why I am asking. What are your intentions?"

"Don't you need to go fight the necromancer that is contracted to Nídhöggur?" Paragranum shrugged as it spoke in a playful voice. "Nídhöggur, the lizard that rots all matter, is the enemy of alchemy. I can't coexist with a warlock who contracts to such a being. Thus, I will lend a hand so that you can get rid of him."

"But didn't you say you would only give the Emerald Tablet after you achieved your purpose?"

"Unlike Gluttony, I am not obsessed with the original." Paragranum muttered 'copy' in a small voice before continuing. "It is up to here. This time, I will place a bet on your victory and wait."

"…What side was it last time?"

Paragranum stopped for a moment as she was walking away. She didn't look back as she gave her answer, "It doesn't matter either way."

Chapter 315 – Towards the World Tree (2)

A few days after that:

Theodore's preparations had ended with the removal of a few books from the Zero Library. However, the two guardians lying in bed needed a little more time to finish their preparations. No, two days was too short. How could someone without an arm or whose neck was wounded cross the Red Plateau, which was famous for its harshness? The journey wasn't easy even for those with no injuries.

However, Theodore envisioned a better journey.

"Theo, is it really okay?" Veronica was worried that he might be being too hasty. Both of them were ready to leave, but it had been only three days since returning from the Lairon Kingdom. She was well aware of the possibility that this might be too soon, as she had been born as a quarter dragon.

Throughout her life, Veronica had constantly realized the difference between herself and others. With a frail body, unstable magic power, and stamina that only lasted a few days, even a magician who crossed the wall of a master was fragile compared to dragons.

"It is fine. I'm well aware of my limitations." Nevertheless, Theodore didn't show any signs of weakness as he checked the magic circle he had drawn last night.

Like the last time, the scale of this magic circle drawn in the palace's backyard was enormous. It was the result of adding a few functions and assuming there would be a longer distance to travel over than when they went to Sipoto Plains. This was a magic circle to transport them to the northernmost part of the Northern Continent, the large forest containing Elvenheim.

'Okay, there are no problems.'

A normal teleport couldn't enter the Great Forest because mana evaporated in the Red Plateau. It was possible to manipulate space like Orta, but the mana of Teleport would be cut off along the way. Thus, Theodore had to change the underlying idea.

'If the flow is interrupted, don't ride it. Jump instead.'

They would move from point to point, not along a line. The coordinates of the vacant space were exchanged with the coordinates of the Great Forest. This was close to impossible. However, Theodore had a means to make the impossible possible.

[Hoit, hoi, ho…? Hooing?] The girl who emerged from the earth, Mitra, was the main character. Mitra had the seed of the world tree in her body and was the master key itself. The system of Ratatoskr that protected Elvenheim and the world tree would play a supporting role rather than interfere with Mitra.

If Theodore had any regrets in this situation, it was one thing.

"Tch, that blue worm isn't coming?" Veronica leaned against a nearby wall and brought up the topic he had been thinking about.

Sea Dragon Aquilo—she was a member of the strongest species in the material world and connected to Theodore through the blood imprint. In some ways, she was a perfect fit for this battle. However, Aquilo remained silent to this call. This silence was different from 'rejection.'

"…I've called several times, but there isn't an answer. She isn't the type of person who would just ignore someone, is she?"

"That is true. Did something happen?"

"I don't know. She might just be in a distant place. For now, we have to take it as she won't help."

Veronica pouted and grumbled, "I didn't want to use dog poop in medicine, so this is better."

It was natural when facing each other, but Veronica seemed uncomfortable right now for some reason. Was it because there weren't many people equal to her? Aquilo's strength and personality made her a visible presence to Veronica. She didn't refuse it when asked about having Aquilo present, but it wasn't a relationship where they could be friends. Anyway, Aquilo's help wasn't going to come.

After a while, the two elves arrived in the backyard of the palace.

"Benefactor! You are already here."

"…What is this magic circle?"

Edwin's movements seemed a bit unstable because of his empty left arm socket, but there seemed to be no major problems. It was the same for Ellaim. He had no problems with breathing despite there still being a bandage around his neck. They suffered serious injuries, but the masters weren't fragile enough to be harmed by the recoil of Teleport.

Theodore greeted the two elves and stood in the magic circle. "Sir Edwin, please stand inside the ellipse drawn on the left. Sir Ellaim, please stand on the other side."

"I understand."

"Veronica…"

"You don't need to say it. This spot?"

An 8th circle magician wasn't something that could be reached with magic power and talent alone. He didn't need to explain the magic circle to Veronica as she stood where she was supposed to. Theodore saved a bit of time with that and immediately poured magic power into Teleport. The light of the magic circle grew stronger, and the backyard was covered with an intense magic light.

Huuuuuuong!

Unlike the last time, there was no farewell. The matter of Nídhöggur and the revival of a 9th circle warlock was still being kept confidential, with only the king and tower masters knowing. It was better to hide it completely than to cause chaos, especially when the Magic Society would be of no help.

It was the same reason why they were concealing the trip to Elvenheim.

'From now on, I can't expect any more reinforcements.'

Theodore pushed aside the post-war complications and opened his mouth, "Now, I will get started. Mitra."

[Hoing! I'll try hard!]

In order for this space movement to work, Mitra's role was the most important. Mitra sat on Theodore's head and opened her arms wide, the sprout on her head spinning like a pinwheel.

Moving from point to point was several times slower than moving along a line. Considering the obstacles of the Red Plateau and the barriers around the Great Forest, the success rate was close to zero. It was a difficult task that even Orta could only try after reaching the 8th circle.

However, Theodore had a helper. It was the neural network called Ratatoskr that was widely spread through the Great Forest. Once the magic circle reached its limit, Theodore didn't miss the moment and used Dragon Words.

"「 лес, отвечать (Forest, reply)! 」" Theodore's voice reached the northern Great Forest, which was hundreds of kilometers away.

It might've ended here if it was a normal voice. Nature wasn't something that humans could command. However, Theodore's command was made with Dragon Words, and the consciousness of the world tree, that was not yet mature, responded to it. The huge mana of the Great Forest stirred, and a few roots stretched out to the magic circle far away.

Kiiiing-!

It connected, while a sharp voice stabbed at Theodore's mind.

-Who are you? How dare you intrude unauthorized into this neural network!

-If you don't identify yourself, you will be blocked immediately.

-…Noisy…

Theodore smiled despite the noise causing a headache. The voices were familiar. In order, they were Alucard, Lumia, and Naia. Ellenoa and Alisa couldn't be heard, but they weren't always connected to the neural network. They were either sleeping or doing other work.

'It has been a long time everyone,' he spoke lightly.

-This voice is…! T-Theodore?

-Oh, my. Theodore? You came back quickly.

-…He… not… intruder… sleep, again…

The reactions were unique. Theodore waited for the excitement of the elves to settle and then spoke, 'I'm not there yet, Lumia.'

-Huh? What does that…

'I established this connection in order to arrive.'

Theodore explained why he had connected this magic circle with Ratatoskr. It wasn't difficult to take the initiative with Dragon Words, but there was no reason to. They owed him for the last battle. Indeed, the high elves easily accepted his request.

-Hrmm, it is fine if it is you.

-I'll allow it if you come to see me.

-…A…gree…

There were no worries that Theodore might hold malicious intentions. Simultaneously, the paused connection with Ratatoskr resumed, and the entire magic circle was surrounded by a strong light. The two space coordinates were established, and the flash of light was so bright that their eyes couldn't see.

Flash!

After the light disappeared, no one remained in the palace's backyard. There were only the traces of the magic circle, the burnt marks of strange shapes.

* * *

There was a light that seemed to blind eyes. Theodore shed a few tears as he looked around with still blurry eyes. Fortunately, his vision soon recovered. The objects before him became clear, and the tingling of his eyes soon disappeared. Was it the effect of using an excessive amount of magic power in a short period of time? Next time, he would need to make a few more adjustments.

'…Well, it seems like we have properly arrived at our destination.'

He could figure it out even though his surroundings were just blurry shapes. Trees of this height couldn't be found anywhere other than in the Great Forest, and the shadow of the world tree was rising above the clouds on the horizon. What about everyone else?

Theodore turned his head and saw Veronica and the two elves rubbing their eyes.

"It looks good. Let's take a break here and start when we are in good shape."

"…"

"…"

"…"

"…Excuse me, everyone?"

There were no replies. Veronica, Edwin, and Ellaim were staring in Theodore's direction with blank expressions. To be precise, they were staring at Theodore��s head. He wondered what they were looking at when he felt a startling sense of weight on his neck.

"Eh?"

It was like the weight of a child! Theodore turned his head in confusion and saw a pair of eyes gazing at him. He saw smooth earthy skin and brown eyes. She had a childlike face but still several years more mature than what he recalled. Was she around 10 years old or so? Her small legs hung naturally over his neck toward his chest as she sat on his shoulders.

Theodore called out her name with disbelief, "…Mitra?"

The girl smiled widely and replied with pronunciation that was much better than it had been just a while ago, [Yes! Mitra!]

"Hah."

'Who am I? Where am I?'

Mitra jumped down from the neck of the confused Theodore. Her height was still below one meter despite growing. The girl of the earth wore a blue-grey dress and danced around. Her strength also felt quite powerful. It felt equivalent to that of the upper elementals Edwin summoned.

'Her strength has more than doubled? Why all of a sudden…?'

An ancient elemental might be beyond common sense. However, this growth was strange. Was it due to connecting to Ratatoskr for a while? Theodore was feeling troubled by the growth when Mitra cried out.

[Open, hooing!] Mitra pointed to the forest and gave it a command. Then the bushes and tree roots moved like the Great Forest was opening its mouth. It was a feat that Ellenoa had shown when Theodore visited Elvenheim in the past.

"…"

"…"

"…"

"…"

This time, all four people were speechless as they gazed at the triumphant Mitra. They didn't know why, but Mitra seemed to have equal or more power than the high elves in the Great Forest.

Chapter 316 – Towards the World Tree (3)

'Ah, that's it. The seed of the world tree,' Theodore remembered this fact belatedly.

It had been several years already. Edwin had come to him after saving Ellenoa and given him a gift from Elvenheim. That was the seed of the world tree which Mitra had eaten. Theodore's gaze naturally shifted to the top of Mitra's head. The sprout of the world tree, the source of all life in the Great Forest, was growing from her small head. If that bud was recognized as the world tree, then it was no wonder that Mitra had power in the Great Forest.

The world tree, Yggdrasil—in the Age of Mythology, it connected three dimensions and had influence in nine dimensions. Compared to its prime, this forest was nothing more than a bunch of weeds. Even if it was just a sprout, there was nothing in the forest that could rebel against Mitra, who borrowed Yggdrasil's name.

[Theo, did I do well?] Mitra returned to Theodore's side after opening the path. Her eyes were shining like lanterns as she expected praise. Her innocent face was the same as always. Theodore couldn't help laughing as he stroked her wheat-colored hair several times. "Yes, well done."

[Hihihi!] Mitra laughed like she was ticklish and started to dance. Someone who didn't know her would've thought that she was a child out for a picnic.

[Catch me~!] Mitra called out playfully as she plunged down the forest path. Did she want to play tag? Theodore followed her with a gentle smile, while the remaining three people followed with bemused expressions.

The four people headed through the forest like that. The ankle-height roots of the trees bent, while the branches which could tear at one's skin moved out of the way. Theodore had experienced it once, but it was still amazing. This time, the one exercising the power was Mitra. The vegetation stirred with every step she took, and when she hummed, the wind responded like it was a well-made string instrument.

'No, it isn't just that. This…!'

Theodore enhanced his eyesight. Elementals without contractors were given forms, and they danced and sang around Mitra's body. This was an unrealistic scene where the natural world responded to Mitra's will. It might be a trigger to regain believers. The power that overflowed in the Great Forest and the elves that worshipped Yggdrasil might restore some of Mitra's divinity.

At that moment, Edwin asked from behind Theodore, "…Benefactor, is that an ancient elemental?"

Theodore read the mixed emotions in Edwin's voice and looked back. There was reverence in Edwin's eyes. It was just like how the knights of Andras felt toward the emperor or how Lairon's followers worshipped him. Emotions thickened the elf's voice.

"Yes, that's right," Theodore confirmed it.

"But this feeling… It isn't possible. How?"

"What do you mean?"

However, Theodore didn't hear an answer from Edwin.

It was Ellaim who replied instead. "We can currently feel the power of the parent tree from her. The size of the power is under the top elementals, but the purity is more profound. I would like to bow down in front of her and give words of thanks."

"…That much?"

The two guardians nodded, and Theodore finally realized the gravity of the situation.

The guardians of the elves couldn't hide their reverence and wanted to drop to the ground. They could barely endure it with the mentality of the master level. In that case, it wouldn't be surprising if other elves immediately bowed down and prayed the moment they saw Mitra.

'Should I think about putting up some measures?'

Mitra regaining her divinity wasn't a problem. It was the environment that was a problem. The foundation of her power was based on the world tree, so the elves' limited faith was more likely to bind her to Elvenheim. If so, Mitra's contractor wouldn't be able to escape this land either. There was a lot of work to be done to avoid this.

Theodore was worrying about it when the uncomfortable Veronica caught his eye. "Veronica."

"Huh?" Veronica sensed his question and looked down at her left wrist. She was wearing a bracelet with strange characters carved on it. Surely she wasn't feeling uncomfortable because of the accessory? However, that idea quickly vanished from Theodore's mind. It was because his eyes grasped the function of the bracelet in a matter of seconds.

"Magic power sealing?"

Veronica nodded and explained, "It suppresses the magic power that leaks out of my body. I'm not in a good mood because I'm wearing this. Sorry to bother you."

"Why are you wearing this artifact?"

A magician needed to be able to resonate the mana outside the body and the circles inside the body to exert power. By wearing the bracelet, it was like Veronica had her limbs tied up. Of course, she wasn't defenseless because she had her innate physical abilities and the draconic mode, but she was much weaker than usual. There was no reason for her to wear the artifact.

"Without this, my magic power will burn the forest."

However, Theodore was convinced by the explanation. It reminded him of what Edwin said when he visited as the envoy previously. Edwin had said that the world tree had burned because of her.

"Perhaps it is a problem of my lineage. I heard that red dragons live mainly in volcanic areas and have a great influence over the natural world."

"Then staying in the Great Forest…"

"Well, I should wear it until the battle begins. How can I come into someone's house and become an arsonist? It will be okay once a ward is placed."

Veronica spoke casually. However, Theodore was a magician like her and knew how frustrating it would be to be restrained like that. She was disconnected from her magic power, and it would feel like her hands and feet were suddenly broken. Even if she only spent an hour or two in this state, her limbs would feel cramped. Theodore admired her and couldn't help muttering a few words—words which were spoken with no intentions behind them.

"I hope we get there as soon as possible. As soon as we arrive, I will set up a circle around you…"

[Yes?] Mitra, who was walking a few steps ahead, heard Theodore's words and returned to his side. [Theo wants to arrive faster?]

"Huh? Ah. Well, the quicker the better?"

[Understood! Theo, believe in Mitra!]

"Y-Yes."

Mitra smiled brightly like sunshine and raised her voice. Her tone was light, like a bead rolling around on a tray.

[Shorten, hoing!]

* * *

One hour.

"…"

"…"

"…"

"…"

During their last visit, this journey had taken half a day thanks to Ellenoa's assistance and Orta's magic. It would take three days when walking normally and one day when flying over the trees. Yet Mitra had shortened it to just one hour. Theodore's group was moved to the center of Elvenheim in a manner that the two 8th circle magicians couldn't understand.

"Y-You got here quickly. Theodore?" Lumia came to meet them and couldn't hide her dumbfounded face. Her surprise was greater because she had continuously grasped the position of the four people using Ratatoskr. They had moved a few kilometers per minute, sometimes jumping from one point to another. Unlike Orta's space movement, this method involved the direct manipulation of space.

'Space movement—no, space distortion…? I thought there was no one who could handle the space around the world tree…'

Mitra, the cause of this, had already been recalled. It was an action to avoid having elves fall in front of her. However, this result left Lumia feeling confused. The wards of the world tree were enormous. It was a transcendent existence, but in the end, the world tree was just a lifeform. The immunity inside its body was just like that of any other life form.

So, it wasn't strange that it had moved according to Mitra's will, since Mitra was recognized as part of its body. Lumia didn't know about Mitra's existence and was confused, but she soon opened her mouth and said, "…Please follow me. It isn't quite ready yet, but I have prepared a room for Theodore and your companion to stay."

"Ah, thank you."

"Additionally, Guardian Edwin and Guardian Ellaim, both of you worked really hard. As soon as the Ceremony of Evergreens is finished, we will start the healing process for both of you."

"Parent's grace, the will of the dancers thanks you."

The two guardians accompanied Theodore and Veronica up to here. Theodore conveyed his heartfelt thanks to these two people, "Both of you can visit at any time. Meltor and I, Theodore, will never forget your commitment."

"It was an honor to join you on the meaningful journey."

"I will see you again tomorrow, Benefactor!"

The two guardians, Edwin and Ellaim, moved boldly without caring about the aftermath of their injuries. Would they be all better the next time he saw them? Theodore looked forward to the reunion as he followed after Lumia with Veronica. Lumia's walk was rather slow, perhaps in consideration for those who were unfamiliar with this forest.

Then Theodore suddenly had a question. "Lumia."

"Yes?"

"What is the Ceremony of Evergreens? If it is a secret, you don't have to teach me."

Lumia shook her head with a gentle smile. "No. It isn't anything big. The world tree sometimes drops leaves that have reached the end of their lifespan. These are collected and recycled as fertilizer for the forest. However, the scale is so large that two people must go out."

"Two high elves… Ah, perhaps?"

"Yes, it is as you thought."

Ellenoa and Alisa had been absent when he connected to Ratatoskr not long ago. There was one high elf Theodore hadn't met yet, but there was no way he could think of someone he didn't know. They chatted for a while before Lumia brought up the topic first.

"Theodore, can I ask why you came here like this?" She squinted at Veronica and lowered her tone by an octave. "It must be an important issue if you came with her."

"…Sigh, it is as you said."

The existence of Veronica was, after all, a threat to the world tree. Theodore wouldn't have her accompany him if her power wasn't needed. Theodore confirmed Lumia's words and carefully selected his words.

Where should he start explaining? The fact that the evil dragon Nídhöggur was aiming for this land? Or that a 9th circle warlock had resurrected and was aiming to sacrifice the world tree? It was a heavy story, so he didn't think he should say it while they were walking.

Then at that moment…

"―Hello." Someone suddenly appeared in front of Lumia, Theodore, and Veronica. The two magicians reflexively stepped back, and Veronica stared toward the front with her finger on her bracelet.

"…Elf?"

The person who appeared had black hair, golden eyes, and white fur clothing. The beauty, who was different from the earthly beauty of elves, gazed at Theodore. She was around 160 centimeters tall, and her weight was unknown. The distribution of her center of gravity and her standing posture demonstrated that she was trained in fighting. Theodore evaluated the other person to be at least on the level of Edwin and Ellaim, so he couldn't help feeling alert.

"Ah, wait a minute!" Lumia interrupted their confrontation. "Ah, Theodore! Is this the first time you've met her? She is the third dancer, the shaman of the Dry Pine Tribe―"

"Titania," Titania said her name in a dry voice and stood in front of Theodore without hesitation. "You are the contractor of the ancient elemental?"

"That's right." Theodore's eyebrows frowned slightly at the high elf's unfriendly attitude. Veronica was also unhappy, judging by the rise in temperature. At this rate, a fight would break out before they could talk. Titania ignored the harsh tension and looked at Theodore with strange eyes. "I see. If so, you are the one my master has chosen."

"…Master?"

Titania nodded to his reflexively question with an emotionless face. "I will introduce myself again. I am the disciple of Sage Myrdal Herseim, the successor of the ancient elemental Geros."

She concluded her shocking self-introduction, "I, Titania Herseim, have been waiting for you."

Chapter 317 – Towards the World Tree (4)

Theodore asked with a puzzled expression, "You are Myrdal's disciple?"

He had no idea he would hear that name here. A sage surrounded by many secrets… Myrdal was also a magician and elementalist. He was a mysterious person. His achievements were recorded in the magic towers, but there was nothing related to his personal relationships. It was questionable as to how Myrdal even knew Gluttony, and now he had a high elf as a disciple. Furthermore, he had left behind another ancient elemental?

'If it is called Geros, then it is definitely Zephyrus… Ellenoa once showed me an illusion.'

Zephyrus, god of the west wind, was a god who took four laps of the material world in a day and caused storms just by sighing. Even if the power of that time couldn't be reproduced, the tales about Myrdal were comparable to those about Zephyrus. Theodore recalled the welcoming image of Geros that Ellenoa had shown him. Geros had a crown of horns and a body surrounded by armor. Its form reminded him of a giant from the Age of Mythology.

"I heard that elves can't be magicians. Are high elves different?"

"No way," Titania replied with an emotionless face. "We can't artificially interfere with the flow of nature. We are a species that can't learn magic. The only thing I learned from him was the wisdom of nature, the reality of elementals."

"A human teaching high elves about elementals…?"

"Haven't you guessed it after meeting Master? He is known as a human, but he is something not human."

Theodore fell silent. Making a guess about something was different from hearing it directly from a high elf. Sage Myrdal Herseim was something not human! It wasn't an exaggeration to say that not only had he mastered all of humanity's magic, he had also established a new system of elementalists.

'What is he? He made the contract between me and Mitra, and now I find out that he has also given a high elf an ancient elemental…' Theodore thought back to when he met Myrdal at the Fountain of Wisdom on top of the world tree.

He remembered every single world Myrdal had said.

[A fragment of memory calling out to me, how pretentious.]

[Huhu, please forgive me. I foresaw your visit, but I'm unable to move at this time. As such, I am forced to greet you and your contractor in this way.]

[Giving excuses…]

Despite being centuries old and a living transcendent, he had referred to it 'at this time.' It meant he had been aware of the situation. It was foresight. Myrdal's capacity for it far exceeded that of the white tower master, Heathcliff. So, it wasn't impossible for Myrdal to observe the future beyond the wall of centuries.

"So?"

There were too few clues. All Theodore could guess was that Myrdal had left some arrangements for an unknown intention. In order to know more about this, it was necessary to listen to the words of Titania, the high elf who claimed to be Myrdal's disciple.

"You said you were waiting for me?" Theodore asked.

However, this caused Titania to shake her head. "I have something to say and wanted you to follow me… but your task is more urgent. Is the story associated with the energy of death coming from the southwest?"

"How did you…?"

"I don't know how to see like Master, but it isn't hard to read the darkness."

Titania was an unknown presence like her master, Myrdal. Lumia twitched at the words she couldn't understand.

"Hey." At that moment, Veronica couldn't help stepping forward. "Why are you coming out of nowhere and speaking in informal language? Is it fun pretending to know everything? Do you think it is okay to treat Theo like this?"

"Hrmm?"

The bracelet around Veronica's left hand shook. Veronica's magic power wasn't so weak that it could be bound by a single artifact. The bracelet's durability rapidly fell once she allowed herself to get agitated. Titania saw it, and her eyes lit up. "Aha, the dragon lady who once burned the area during a confrontation in the past. Shouldn't you be more polite when visiting this time?"

"What? Should I say it directly? Cowardly high elf."

"…What?" Titania reacted sharply to the word 'cowardly.'

"Aren't you the high elf who hid during the incident last time? It must be easy when you can see the future. You can run away because you know someone else will resolve it!"

"You—!"

The sound of teeth grinding together could be heard from Titania's mouth. It was evidence that Veronica's words had scratched Titania's nerves about failing to participate in the fight against Laevateinn. Titania clenched her teeth and was about to reply.

"Hey, everyone! Let's go inside and talk. Yes?" It was easy to tell that the atmosphere was rapidly becoming bad, so Lumia intervened between the two and tried to calm things down. If Veronica's magic power were freed, it would severely damage the area around her. As such, Veronica and Titania couldn't refuse this mediation.

"Bah."

"Tch."

Surrounded by a tight tension, the two high elves and two magicians walked faster.

* * *

Fortunately, a second argument didn't occur. Titania stopped talking about Myrdal and remained silent as they headed to the cottage that Theodore had visited several times in the past. After greeting the four high elves, the two magicians went straight to the point. Like Lumia, the four high elves were aware that Theodore had come for a serious purpose due to Veronica's presence.

It was a long story. Theodore talked about the war in the Northern Continent, the revival of the 9th circle warlock Jerem, the current destroyed state of Lairon, and the advent of Nídhöggur being the final purpose.

Three hours flew by quickly.

"…A warlock is aiming for the world tree. It sounds like something from a children's fairytale book, but I don't want to experience it directly," the dark elf Alucard opened his distinctive purple lips and spoke with displeasure.

He didn't show any doubts about the information Theodore had brought. After all, Theodore had known about the existence of Laevateinn before anyone else, so the high elves didn't doubt him. Theodore was a clear-eyed person who had been invited to use Ratatoskr.

"Knowing about the existence and power of Elvenheim and still wanting to invade…"

"It means that he can win."

"We must prepare well."

"I didn't think I would hear Nídhöggur's name in this age."

Titania didn't say anything, but the other three quickly discussed measures. They spoke without hesitation about Elvenheim's current power and the state of their defenses.

Theodore couldn't help wondering. "…Why?"

"Huh? What is it?" Alucard asked, and the four high elves looked at Theodore.

"Why aren't you scolding me? In the end, I am the one who resurrected Jerem. If it wasn't for me, the world tree wouldn't be in danger."

"Why?"

The four high elves looked at each other and laughed.

"How boring. That's what you were thinking about, Theodore?"

"What?"

"Don't forget that you plunged into the flames for us. Elves don't forget the debts they owe. And friendship isn't a relationship where debts should be dwelled on or exchanged," Lumia spoke clearly. "Let's get through this adversity again, Theodore."

"…Yes." Theodore nodded with a pained heart, and the story started flowing faster.

It was due to Naia. The usual sleepiness of the beautiful female elf was gone. Naia, the head of the clan known for their wisdom in Elvenheim, asked Theodore for one thing, "The prophecy that you heard, tell me."

"Ah, the prophecy…"

There was nothing to hide.

Naia listened to the five verses Heathcliff had spoken, then she carefully opened her mouth. "I think the big bird is Hraesvelgr. The one whose life principle is to go against the evil dragon, it is the bird that brings typhoons. Our tribe's records show that the two are always at each other's throats."

"Divine creature, Hraesvelgr… the old stories are continuing today."

"If it has been prophesied, shall we call this divine creature?"

Theodore's eyes widened at Alucard's words and asked, "Is it possible?"

"It is possible." Unlike the positive answer, the elf's complexion wasn't bright. Then Alucard immediately revealed the reason why. "The biggest problem is that the ritual will take at least a month. Additionally, it needs four high elves, which hinders our actions. Ellenoa and Titania are still immature as high elves, making it difficult to build a defense around them."

"I can do it."

"I'm not saying you can't, Titania. You have to spend more time in the Great Forest. Hunting and war are different. We need someone with experience in leading…"

Titania's eyes narrowed as she interrupted Alucard and declared in a strong tone, "I swear in the name of the root. Leave it to me."

For elves, the roots were their home and clan. Swearing an oath on them was heavier than swearing on their own lives. Additionally, Titania was a high elf, so her root was the world tree Yggdrasil. The parent tree didn't deny Titania's pledge, and her commitment couldn't be argued against.

Alucard had to raise both hands and concede, "…I understand. I will leave it to you. I will pass it on to the two people who aren't here. Don't forget to listen to Ellenoa and the other guardians."

"Of course." After achieving what she wanted, Titania immediately looked at Theodore and Veronica. Then she pointed to one person and said, "There is something you need to resolve first."

"Huh?" Veronica was stunned by the finger that suddenly pointed at her.

Chapter 318 – The One who Inherits, the One who Maneuvers Behind the Scenes (1)

The underground, a subterranean world that caused instinctive fear among living creatures on the earth…

It didn't allow for a single strand of light. This was a space that was cut off from the blue sky and the grace of the sun. If the place beyond the sky was revered as a sacred and beautiful place, then the area under the earth was considered as a place of death and flames.

Most cultures buried a person when they died, making the underground known as the world of the dead. There was a reason for this stereotype. There was no need to go back to the Age of Mythology. In this era, there were many forces that made the underground their home.

The underground auction house in the Kargas Kingdom was part of it.

At any time and from anywhere, those hiding in the underground were always afraid of the sun, and they held secrets that couldn't be revealed to others. Those with wicked eyes crawled into the darkness beneath the earth to be able to display their wicked desires openly.

After staying in the abyss for a long time, the rats were finally eaten by the abyss.

"…Hrmmm."

Bodies, bodies, and bodies… A man opened his mouth on top of a hill of hundreds, maybe thousands, of bodies. He let out a viciously distorted voice that caused the listener to feel fear.

The man was wrapped in a black robe, and as he crushed one of the skulls rolling near his feet, he muttered, "Kuhuhu, I would suppose this situation is called 'boil the hound once it has caught the rabbit'? It is my favorite expression." (TL: Getting rid of something once it has served its purpose)

It was as he said. All those who worked as his puppets were part of the mountain of the dead. The head of the Orcus Company, Isaac, had died in a gruesome puddle of blood. With Jerem's resurrection, the Four Horsemen turned the organization, which they had created, into a meal for Jerem, just like putting a hound that had lost its value into a boiling pot.

"Their deaths will help the king. Isn't this a rewarding experience for such trash?" Red Knight Elohim chuckled as he looked down at the mummified bodies. It wasn't just the vitality of the bodies that was drained. Their souls, the backbone of their life, had also been absorbed. Those who died here would have no room for salvation. They would constantly suffer pain serving under Jerem.

"Well, this will keep me alive for another month or two." Jerem nodded at Elohim and pulled out his hand that had been hidden in his robes.

Rotting skin, like that of a leprosy patient, was revealed.

The body of the Pale Rider couldn't stop the collapse of his soul. It was due to the lack of a suitable vessel for Jerem's soul, as well as the fatal wound Mitra had dealt him. Right now, absorbing the vitality and souls of the living was just a desperate measure, not a fundamental solution.

In order to fix this wound, he had to pay an equivalent price to a great being, Nídhöggur.

"If possible, I wanted to be better prepared, but… I guess it can't be helped. There isn't a lot of time remaining in this flesh." Words with an unknown meaning behind them flowed from Jerem's mouth. Just what the hell was he starting?

Building a mountain of bodies and a river of blood… Among them was an excellent magician. There was also a swordsman who made a name for himself. One man had slaughtered all the famous people in the organization like they were chickens and completed a single magic circle.

"I don't need to call a complete form from the beginning. It is enough to finish it after the calling. It isn't difficult to call an avatar if I use the souls gathered from Lairon and the body of Baldur."

The altar of sacrifices was surrounded by a magic circle of an ominous color. On the left was a soul gem. It was a crystal ball made from the 10 million souls that had been stolen by the great magic circle in Lairon. Judging by its value, the volume would remain even if he called several high-ranking demons.

However, there was an even more valuable offering on the right. It was Baldur's body. Surrounded by a brilliant light, his remains didn't allow the human eye to look at it. Jerem could only confirm the outline, and the Four Horsemen didn't even dare face it. Baldur was a god who represented light, the antithesis of warlocks.

Therefore, the presence of darkness couldn't help being attracted to this prey.

"「 Eater of the world tree, king of Nastrond. 」"

The magic circle, which had been drawn with the blood of thousands, flashed red. As soon as the chanting began, the darkness in the underground area started to wriggle as if it had gained life. It was proof that the wall separating the material world and Nastrond was collapsing.

"「 You are the one who scoffs at all deaths, who sits down on the field of those killed at the end of the world. 」"

The taboo history from the end of the Age of Mythology flowed out, and the magic circle emitted red light like it was responding. It was the eye of Nídhöggur, Nastrond's king. The gaze penetrated through the wall of the dimension and reached Jerem.

-Did you call this body, Follower?

Terror flooded in. As soon as he received that gaze, Jerem forgot his position as a transcendent and became terrified. Nídhöggur was a king of monsters who could kill him with one finger… Jerem had contracted with Nídhöggur to obtain the mighty power. However, it was inevitable for him to feel fear due to the difference between them. Jerem barely controlled the shaking of his voice and opened his mouth, "Your strength is required. Receive the offering I brought, and let me borrow your power."

-Hoh? Nídhöggur first looked at the soul gem with disinterested eyes, but he then looked at Baldur's body with intrigue. It was the body of a god from the Age of Mythology. He might already be dead, but Baldur's fame had spread throughout the world.

Needless to say, Nídhöggur accepted it. -Okay, tell me your desire. In the name of this Nídhöggur, I will grant you strength corresponding to the sacrifices offered.

Simultaneously, the two sacrifices on the altar were sucked into the dark abyss. It meant they had become the possessions of Nídhöggur, the ruler of Nastrond. Subsequently, Jerem's desire was conveyed to Nídhöggur.

-Yggdrasil, how interesting. In the Age of Mythology, many wanted to take it. But in the end, it was burned without entering anyone's hands. Desire filled the eyes of the wicked dragon. -Indeed, this is entertainment after a long time. Follower, I'll match your trick. This time, I will take that seedling.

"Thank you, great dragon."

-On the day that this body swallows Yggdrasil, I will give you a piece of Niflheim's territory.

Jerem grinned, and Nídhöggur opened his mouth. Magic couldn't surpass the walls of the dimension. Jerem thought this at first. Crossing the walls of the dimension wasn't a feat allowed to a 9th circle warlock, even when his body was complete.

However, this was just a mere nuisance to Nídhöggur.

――――――――――――――!!!

An odor of death spread out, and the dragon roared.

* * *

Simultaneously, Theodore's group finished their first task after the conversation in the cabin. It was to settle Veronica's matter that Titania had pointed out. The ward was completed faster than expected, and Veronica's mana calmed down.

"…Tch." Still, Veronica's complaints couldn't be stopped.

"Well done. There is no magic power coming from her." Titania nodded as she looked at the ward Theodore had made.

There was no problem if it couldn't be felt with the senses of a high elf. No fires made it through the ward. However, Veronica was unhappy about the situation and muttered to Titania, "You don't have to act so arrogantly with Theo!"

"…?" Titania didn't understand the meaning of the words and turned away with no response. Of course, her indifferent attitude made Veronica even more infuriated.

"I'll be right back. Please wait, even if it is boring." Theodore tried to calm Veronica, then he followed after Titania. He had visited Elvenheim once before, but most places were still unfamiliar to him. Titania, who was walking ahead, looked back at her and said, "Let's go higher. It is more efficient to explain each zone from a high altitude."

"I will."

The two people exchanged words and flew into the air. Theodore used flying magic, while Titania relied on the ancient elemental, Geros. As Theodore rose slowly in the air, he listened to the voice coming from above him. Titania's voice was mixed with the wind as she said, "I want to ask you something."

She hesitated for a moment before asking softly, "Is my tone that arrogant?"

"…Huh?"

"I didn't speak with honorifics the first time we met. I don't have any bad feelings towards you and don't want to make you uncomfortable. If you have any complaints, tell me without worrying."

Theodore looked up at her with a subtle expression, then he realized that Titania was wearing a skirt and looked away. This was the disadvantage of flying magic. However, Titania seemed to think his silence was an answer and sighed. She spoke in a tone that was still stiff but carried some of her own troubles. "I respect you even if I don't use honorifics. You are the benefactor of Elvenheim. I'm not haughty or stupid enough to not admit them. If there is a problem… Yes, think of it as me lacking social interaction."

"Okay, I understand your point." He accepted her words but pointed out one thing. "Then you should fix something first."

"What is it?"

"My name isn't 'you'."

Titania looked down at him with surprise and smiled bitterly. It was only a slight smile, but it was the first time Theodore had seen it.

"…Indeed. Theodore, should I call you this?"

"Yes, I will also call you Titania."

"This is a monumental day. Aside from the high elves and Master, you are the first one to call my name."

The atmosphere improved as both of them continued to fly in the sky.

After a few kilometers, Titania and Theodore crossed the clouds and landed on one of the branches of the world tree. They flew for a few minutes and couldn't even fly halfway up the world tree. Of course, they could go further up, but it would be counterproductive to their goal of understanding the different areas in the Great Forest.

'The scenery is spectacular. If this was opened as a tourist destination, many people would pay gold to see it.'

However, it was unlikely that would ever happen. Theodore was smiling when Titania called out to him.

"Theodore."

"Ah, did you want to explain something?"

"No, I remembered that I have to give you something."

"Huh?"

The wind was strong. Against the backdrop of the huge tree, the wind blew Titania's hair and white fur clothing. Then she pulled out a book from inside her clothing. Theodore's eyes shook as he saw the book's cover.

"Master asked me to give this to Theodore."

"Hah…" Theodore laughed involuntarily and received the book from Titania. The book's cover was so worn down that it was impossible to know when it was written.

'It makes me realize that he truly isn't human.'

Theodore's trembling fingers touched the characters on the title, [Deeper Theories about Elementals].

The Introduction to Elemental Magic II that Theodore bought a few years ago at the auction house had raised his understanding of magic and elementals, but he hadn't gotten a chance to talk to Myrdal again. It was the original copy of the book Myrdal had written, but a fragment of his soul hadn't remained in it.

However, what about this book that had been written before Theodore was born?

"…Sigh." Theodore took a deep breath to calm his agitation and a place a hand on the sage's book.

'Appraisal.'

Chapter 319 – The One who Inherits, the One who Maneuvers Behind the Scenes (2)

As always, the same information window appeared in Theodore's mind.

[Deeper Theories about Elementals]

[This book goes beyond the theory of the four elementals, giving an outline of the royal elementals and the ancient elementals. It explains the difference between a god and an elemental, as well as the changes that occur to an elemental with a divinity. The author, Myrdal, wrote this solely for one reader. You are the only one who can access this data.

* This magic book is rated 'Unique.'

* Acquisition Conditions: A contractor of an ancient elemental.

* When consumed, elemental magic (Genuine) will be learned.

* When consumed, your understanding of elementals will increase to the maximum.

* This is the original copy that was directly written by the author. When consumed, you can read the message left behind by the author.]

Theodore's eyebrows raised when he saw the last sentence. This was a book that had been written solely for the sake of one reader…

Additionally, it bluntly stated that the condition of acquisition was that one had to be 'a contractor of an ancient elemental.' In the past, Sage Myrdal had truly foretold of Theodore's existence. It was hundreds of years ago, maybe even more. The fact that Theodore hadn't met Titania previously might also be due to Myrdal's arrangement.

'I was never harmed. But… can I trust Mrydal Herseim, who is an unidentified existence?'

A great magician of a previous century and better known as the summoner of a king elemental… 'Myrdal Herseim' was a name that Theodore had only discovered in a textbook 10 years ago. Theodore had thought it was just a coincidence when he found the original book after meeting Gluttony at Bergen Academy and that he had simply been fortunate enough to sign a contract with an ancient elemental.

However, what if that luck was someone else's intentions? Despite the results benefiting Theodore, he couldn't help feeling upset that his choices and efforts seemed to be a puppet game. Feeling the need to talk to Myrdal again, Theodore opened the book. Then he frowned in less than 10 seconds.

"…What… This book?"

It was written in the official language of the continent. The summary of the paragraphs was excellent, and the explanation of the contents concise. This showed that the author's knowledge was excellent. The issue was that the contents had an absurd degree of difficulty.

'Damn, it will take longer than a day or two. It is at a level of theory that I will have to study for months or even years before being able to consume it.'

Looking at the Magic Society as a whole, it was rare to find a magician who knew more than Theodore about elementals. Yet he couldn't remember anything after reading it once. It was a good thing there was some overlap with the Fairy's Book. Otherwise, he wouldn't even be able to get past a few pages.

However, when Theodore thought about it, he realized it was natural. After all, the ancient elements were fragments of gods. This meant that a magician with eight circles was still lacking to fully handle that power.

'Transcendent.'

An aura user must become a grand master or a magician must have nine circles before they could reach the realm of the gods. Theodore might possess several divinities and the experience of Mitra becoming a god again for a short period of time, but it was still far from understanding the nature of the power. This was what it meant to challenge understanding Deeper Theories about Elementals.

"Yes, I will accept it."

Anyway, Titania had done nothing wrong when delivering the book. Theodore placed the old book in his inventory and decided to focus on the main priority. The book Myrdal left behind was an unexpected variable. The first thing Theodore needed to do was defend the world tree and stop Jerem's desires.

"Then I will start off with a description of the areas." The high elf looked down at the large forest stretched out below them and pointed a finger. "The south will be the forefront. The area next to the Red Plateau is empty. However, the ents and dryads coexist deeper inside. The strength of the two species are great when coexisting and large monsters won't enter that area."

"The ents and dryads… They are the species that receive the most from the world tree. They will certainly be a great help."

"That's right. Their cooperation is indispensable when building the defense lines."

The ents and dryads hadn't been able to play a big role against Laevateinn because of the fire. However, they grew up in the Great Forest and were two or three times stronger than other species in the area. The ent's bark was hard to scratch even with steel axes, while the dryads exerted strength over the elementals in their area. Additionally, hundreds of ents could reverse the environmental conditions of the battlefield.

"Next is the west. You have also met them before. It is the area under the control of the beast clan. Frankly, it is difficult to expect much help from them."

"I thought that as well…" Theodore smiled wryly at Titania's words. He had defeated the chief of one clan with a punch, so there was no need to think the others would be stronger. There was a possibility of having power in numbers, but this wasn't an advantage against a necromancer. Rather, it would be right to evacuate them to the rear to prevent them from becoming the enemy's minions.

"Apart from the north, which is permanently frozen, the last area left is the east. The inhabitants of that area are wildlife and creatures. Their scale and power aren't great, but we can't rule out the possibility of them falling into enemy hands."

"The undead, no taming… We can't afford to have the creatures join them. It is best to have the beast clan organize the eastern forest."

The beast clan wouldn't be much help after the full-scale war began, but that didn't mean they were useless. It would be meaningful if they helped reduce the trouble in the east. There was a need to discuss more detailed strategies. However, Theodore thought of the primary measures and opened his mouth, "Titania, where is it better to start?"

"The south."

He wanted to ask her opinion, but Theodore was surprised that the answer was firmer than expected. "Why?"

"It is because the Ceremony of Evergreens is just ending. The ceremony takes place with the cooperation of the ents and dryads," Titania explained the reason without hesitation. "I don't know about the dryads, but the hierarchy of the ents is vague. There is no head, and they often don't follow commands. It is best to tell the story when so many of them are gathered in one place."

"Okay, let's go to the south."

"A quick decision is good."

At almost the same time, both of them jumped down from the world tree. The white fur clothing and red robe fluttered like flags as they flew over kilometers. The two people sped quickly to the south forest, and below them was the spectacular sight of a sea of trees.

'Eh?' At that moment, Theodore recalled something. 'The place where the Ceremony of Evergreens is taking place. This means that Ellenoa…'

Seeing Titania descend to the ground, Theodore reflexively lowered his body. Two colored flags could be seen through the dense trees, and they landed in an open space. Then he came face to face with the person he had thought about just seconds ago.

"…Theodore?" Ellenoa's eyes widened as she cried out in surprise. What did she guess? Her face turned red after she saw Theodore. If Alisa hadn't intervened, the two of them might've stared into each other's eyes for a long time.

"Eh, you finally decided to take our cutie?" With a big laugh, a high elf who didn't reach Theodore's chest approached.

Alisa and Ellenoa were the high elves who had just finished the Ceremony of Evergreens.

* * *

"Ahahaha! So, you are traveling together?" High Elf Alisa listened to the situation and laughed as usual. Unlike her childish appearance, she was the second oldest in Elvenheim. Alisa had been living a long time since before Ellenoa was born a few decades ago, so she had more experience.

Alisa looked at the two people with playful eyes before asking Titania, "Titania, can you do it?"

"…Believe in me."

"Yes, if you say so. Well, it will be fine with that good-looking man. It would be perfect if it turned into a love affair!"

"A-Alisa!" Ellenoa became flustered, and Alisa just giggled.

Then she pointed behind her as she asked Theodore, "By the way, have you thought of a way to persuade them? The ents don't take our orders. It is over if the ents don't move, even if we persuade the dryads. Don't you know that?"

"Yes, I'm aware."

The dryads were fairies who dwelled in trees. Even if they wanted to follow commands, the dryads couldn't be separated from their tree and couldn't move if the ents didn't. The ents were a species that didn't follow the orders of the high elves and whose hierarchy was unclear. Titania also wondered how they would get the ents' cooperation.

"Everyone, don't be too surprised," Theodore spoke a few words of caution and activated his magic power.

Maybe it due to their proximity to the world tree, but Mitra immediately responded to Theodore's call, absorbing all the mana in the ground and creating a body. Her hair was braided back, and the flower bud on her head was shining impressively.

[Hoing! Mitra!]

She was a child of 10 years, but the three high elves stiffened as they saw the essence of the child—the world tree, Yggdrasil. They felt the power of the giant tree that sustained all life in the Great Forest, the tree which the elves called the parent tree. Before any of them could open their mouths, something happened.

[Ohh…oh…ohhhh….!]

[…King…! Welcome…king…!]

[Bow…! Bow…knee!]

Kung kung. There was the magnificent sound of footsteps approaching. The ents reacted the moment Mitra appeared. The reaction was more than expected, perhaps because she had grown from last time. They fell to their knees and didn't raise their heads. Their branches broke, but the ents didn't care. The ruler of all vegetation, the embodiment of the world tree Yggdrasil, was a living god to the ents.

"…"

"…"

"…"

The noble and beautiful high elves were overwhelmed.

[H-Hoing? Theo? I… What do I say?] Mitra was confused.

Theodore thought for a moment before giving her an answer—all communications began with greetings. Mitra danced before placing both hands on her waist and shouting, [Nice to meet you―!]

Why…? This encounter would be a cornerstone in the great battle for the future of the material world. However, Theodore couldn't help seeing it as a play for an elementary academy. He laughed and stroked Mitra's head. This ridiculous spectacle was the beginning of the defense of the world tree.

Chapter 320 – The One who Inherits, the One who Maneuvers Behind the Scenes (3)

One month after Theodore's party arrived in Elvenheim, the 1,000 elf warriors deployed to Meltor returned.

Meanwhile, many changes had been made in Elvenheim, and the progress was continuing. Since Mitra's spectacular entrance before the ents, the forces that made up the Great Forest had started to move actively according to their roles.

As mentioned earlier, the four high elves, apart from Ellenoa and Titania, were doing the summoning ceremony for the divine creature. Theodore collaborated with the other two high elves to set up the defenses in the southern part of the forest.

The number one contributor to this task had been decided from the beginning. As always, the small girl with the blossom on her head was the main character. The ents ignored the high elves but followed every one of Mitra's commands. The dryads promised to cooperate like the ents, and the two species made their defenses according to Mitra's words.

[Woong… You! Go there and sit down, you! Go three more steps and lay down! No, to the left!]

Mitra looked several times at the topographic map that Theodore had drawn. She determined the shape and pointed back and forth. They were clunky instructions, but her orders were delivered through thoughts, not words. She might have seemed like a 10-year-old, but Mitra was the fragment of a deity who had power over vegetation.

The ents were a plant species, and there was no better species to accommodate her wishes.

Kuuong…kung….kuong…

Rumbling sounds rang out in the peaceful forest. The ground was overturned every time the ents stepped, and puffs of dust rose up. Every tree moved was over 10 meters tall.

The sight of hundreds or thousands of these ents moving wouldn't be common in any era. The forest's appearance was changing. As the height of the ground was raised, the wild beasts were surprised by the sudden environmental changes and rushed out in all directions.

There was a hill that hadn't existed yesterday, and a vacant area had turned into a sheer cliff. The topography itself was being used to prevent the invasion of eternal enemies.

'Hrmm, it seems to be turning out better than I expected?' Theodore watched the progress from the sky and nodded with satisfaction. He had been anxious about leaving everything to Mitra, but she had grown into a little girl who possessed outstanding intellect.

Mitra understood Theodore's topographical map and positioned the ents as intended. If things continued like this, everything would be finished in a fortnight. He examined the southern area before turning his eyes away. This time, it was the habitat of the creatures in the east.

"Well, there is nothing that will be an obstacle for Veronica."

Veronica would be fine even if she was left alone for a week. The ward on her would last for two weeks. She had become impatient and asked Theodore for something to do. After a long moment of thinking, he had asked her to subjugate the eastern forest. It was a forest, but it wasn't a big problem if she stayed on the outskirts. The beast clan acknowledged Veronica's power and followed her commands.

'I don't need to worry much about the west and north areas… Things have been going smoothly so far.'

It might not be the best, but things were being handled well. Apart from cleaning up the east and building the defenses in the south, Theodore had left the rest of the preparations to Elvenheim. The elves who had lived here for centuries were going to experience a great invasion!

A warlock that had contracted with an evil dragon would be at the forefront, while an undead legion would push forward. Theodore's tension increased as the days passed, and he prepared for the invasion in his own way. There was a heavy noise as he pulled out Soul Calibre.

"…I have read all four books."

It was a signal that he had read all the books he had taken out from the Zero Library.

Sigh. However, Theodore's complexion wasn't bright. It was because of the predation. He picked up the four books in turn, looking at their covers with troubled eyes. Then he looked at the information windows by placing his left hand on them.

[Ultima]

[This book describes cryogenic magic that can stop all the phenomena of the physical world. It is no coincidence that Ultima, from the ancient world 'Ultimate', has become the name of this magic. In the past, it was said that a magician had used Ultima to freeze a dragon, only to cause himself to die. In order to use this perfectly, the 8th Circle is needed.

* Your understanding is mediocre (65.4%)]

His understanding didn't become higher, even though he had read the book a few times. Given that the lower the level of understanding, the lower the effect of predation would be, it was likely there would be no benefits in this current state. Theodore looked at the information window again, and the last sentence stabbed at him like thorns.

'Eight circles or more… The magic Blundell used seemed to have something to do with Ultima, so it is a pity.'

The Time Stop magic that had even stopped Invidia for a moment…! If Theodore could acquire that magic, it would be worth spending a lot of achievement points. Techniques that dealt with time, the ultimate magic, was a domain for the peak of the 9th circle, which was why Blundell's life had been consumed.

However, Theodore didn't want to talk about this now. He descended gently toward the ground and sat on a moderately high branch, looking at the remaining three books.

"It can't be helped. I should do the rest quickly."

Then the mouth on his left hand opened and prompted him, -Go ahead, User! My stomach is hungry!

"Your appetite seems to have become stronger. Can ordinary books fill you up? Come, eat."

Gulp!

The magic book was sucked into his left hand.

['Rotting Hands' has been consumed. Your understanding is very high.]

[7th Circle magic 'Rotting Hands' has been acquired.]

[Your earth magic ability has increased slightly.]

[An original copy has been consumed. Due to the many years, the author's soul has become weathered. There is only a fragment of the soul remaining.]

The wisdom of the 7th circle magic, Rotting Hands, entered Theodore's mind. It was corruption magic that no substance of the material world could afford to be affected by. Rotting Hands had a disadvantage of being dependent on the user's earth affinity, but that wasn't a great disadvantage for Theodore. He was someone with the power of Mother Earth, an affinity that reached the limits of a mortal.

'Okay, this is a pass.'

The burden on his mind was small. After Rotting Hands, Theodore picked up another book. Then Gluttony's tongue emerged.

['Reverse Shadow' has been consumed. Your understanding is very high.]

[Your proficiency with permanence magic has increased.]

[The Umbra Imprint has reacted loudly. Your sense of dimensions and spiritual dominance will increase greatly.]

[An original copy has been consumed. The synchro rate with object name 'Lenix Agarta' is being checked… Blocked. Lenix Agarta has refused to sync with the user. You can try to force a sync using the permissions of a user, but it is not recommended.]

Theodore frowned when he saw the last message. "Rejected? The sync was rejected?"

-It seems that the author doesn't want to talk. There are no emotions left. What do you want to do?

"…It's okay. Talking to someone who doesn't want it won't get me any good results."

There was one more remaining. Theodore picked up the last book, Soul Calibre, and cautiously placed his left hand on it. If the author of this book also refused to talk, he would have to force one of them. The last book entered Gluttony's mouth.

['Soul Calibre' has been consumed. Your understanding is very high.]

[The 8th circle special magic 'Soul Calibre' has been acquired.]

[The astral attribute affinity has reached its limit. In compensation, the level of skill proficiency will rise even further.]

[An original copy has been consumed. The synchro rate with Reynolds Spencer is being checked… You are at an appropriate level. You can absorb some of Reynold's experience. The duration of the episode is 38 minutes and 17 seconds.]

[Synchro is starting.]

Theodore was relieved by the message, and his consciousness was drawn into the unknown space.

'Reynolds Spencer….' As Theodore's consciousness faded, he was troubled by the name of the author of Soul Calibre.

He seemed to have heard the name somewhere a long time ago.

* * *

Kuweeeeeoh! There was a roar that seemed to burst his eardrums. Theodore's consciousness woke up to a great shock. His blood boiled like a molten furnace, and his brain was filled with excitement and tension. It was a familiar feeling. Faced with a hideous monster, his feet started to move. Theodore remembered that this was synchro, so he stepped back and watched the situation.

'This is Reynolds Spencer's memory?'

The scene continued. He didn't know who the owner of this body was, but the battle style he was using was clearly a very technical type. His feet moved 360 degrees, and he accelerated forward. Was it more appropriate to call it acrobatics than a technical battle style?

The three-headed demon was confused by the acrobatic movements. The fight was fleeting. The demon had three heads and twelve eyes. Yet the moment its eyes looked around, the master of this body had already disappeared. It was an assault beyond the speed of sound, combined with six secondary magics!

As the owner of the body admired the magic, a dazzling sword emerged from his right arm.

Kiiiing-!

Asurahi's Resounding Sword—perhaps it was the perfect sword on which to use Soul Calibre. Otherwise, it would be impossible to cut the body of a demon that was outside the laws of physics.

Simultaneously, three heads rolled to the floor, and the demon's headless body turned into dust. In the end, the demon, that was a foreigner, was sent back to its dimension. The astral attack had dealt a heavy blow, but it was lacking to destroy the demon. Destroying a body that was beyond this dimension needed the power of a god.

Either way, the owner of this body won. It was a fact that didn't change.

"Ha!" As he erased the sword that protruded from his right arm, the person presumed to be Reynolds shouted in a big voice, "Asura's soldiers—they aren't a big deal! They are nothing in front of Reynolds! Spencer's descendant won't stop until you are all dead!"

The warlocks in the distance were surprised by his voice. The magnitude of the force they felt couldn't be classified. At this moment, Theodore remembered where he had heard the name 'Reynolds Spencer'.

'Oh, my god.'

Reynolds spoke like he heard Theodore's thoughts, "What is it? Person from the future."

'I-I'm sorry. Can I ask you one thing first?'

"Okay."

Theodore gained the consent of the other person and took a deep breath before opening his mouth. If his memories were true, then the person he had synced with was…

"Defeater of the sand dragon, Azi Dahaka, as well as demon slayer and magic swordsman… Are you the great hero, Reynolds Spencer?'

Theodore knew it was a stupid question, but he couldn't hold it in any longer.

Magic Swordsman Reynolds Spencer was a great hero who had existed a thousand years ago, a legend who had killed a sand dragon that had swallowed up three kingdoms. He was a magician of the 9th circle and also a grand-class sword master. Numerous writers had written stories about him, and there were more than 10 epic poems based on Reynolds Spencer.

To think that Reynolds Spencer had actually written an original book and Theodore was now in his body…?

"That's right!" Reynolds shouted in a dignified manner. "This body is Reynolds Spencer! The last descendant of Spencer who destroyed the sand dragon, Azi Dahaka!"

Chapter 321 – The One who Inherits, the One who Maneuvers Behind the Scenes (4)

He stepped on the bodies of the demons at his feet and stood at the top. This was a man truly worthy of being called a hero.

Theodore realized the name was correct and became thrilled again. This was a war hero from the history books, a person from before the era of the magic towers. It was an era that had occurred thousands of years ago, at the end of the Dark Ages where darkness survived and evil swung its power.

The sand dragon, Azi Dahaka, was the crystal of destruction that the evil of Dark Ages had created. It was a monster that could spray all types of breaths with its three heads, as well as use the ultimate magic. Azi Dahaka had burned half of the continent in a week until a great hero stood before him.

'Oh, my god. You really are Reynolds Spencer…?'

This wasn't an exaggeration. Reynolds was a hero who had once saved the material world! Theodore had met several great men thus far, but he couldn't help feeling in awe of Reynolds. This impression was conveyed, and Reynolds couldn't help chuckling. "Hahahaha! Indeed, this is amazing. The world still remembering me after a thousand years, there is no greater honey for a hero!"

'…Honestly, I thought your story was fiction.'

It was unclear if Reynolds was a warrior or a magician, and his achievements had spread throughout the continent. Anyone who knew history would come to the same conclusion as Theodore. Demons didn't leave a corpse behind. Therefore, oral stories were the only records that could be used as evidence. Azi Dahaka was a monster, and it had collapsed because of this person. The grounds for Reynold Spencer's story couldn't be found anywhere.

"Well, it is probably a good thing," Reynolds removed Theodore's doubts with a few words. "A hero's role is to shine a light on darkness and give hope to those who are in despair! It is fine if I have fulfilled that role."

In a sense, it was a contradiction. He was so pleased that his story had been passed on after thousands of years that the authenticity didn't matter…? Somebody might be suspicious of his personality.

However, because they shared a body, Theodore could tell that Reynolds' mindset was different from that of others. He didn't care about personal honor. All he desired was for justice to be alive on earth, giving power to those who were facing adversity.

This was the real role of a hero that Reynolds had carried out all his life.

"In the end, the world doesn't turn away from righteousness. Your life is someone else's strength. So, don't lower yourself before me, hero from the future."

'…Yes. Thank you, Sir Spencer.'

"The introductions are up to here. Shall we cut to the chase?" Reynolds spoke like he knew everything. "You want to learn Soul Calibre?"

'Yes.'

"The theory is simple. Magic power is refined and discharged out of the body. The magic power takes the form of a blade that interferes with the astral system, but it doesn't manifest like the theory. Isn't that right?"

Theodore answered in a puzzled tone, 'Huh? I succeeded until the formation of the blade but…'

"I thought so… What? You succeeded?" Reynolds' eyes widened. This person who wasn't even shaken by a high-ranking demon was greatly shocked by this.

Was Theodore that remarkable?

Reynolds read Theodore's thoughts and explained, "Soul Calibre is a type of special magic that has nothing to do with the abilities of a magician. The sword can only be manifested when the soul is used as a core. It is easy for the Spencer family to use because we have trained in it since childhood, but I have never seen someone outside the family use it…"

After muttering a monologue Theodore did not know the meaning of, Reynolds raised his right arm and pointed to the sky. Then a shining sword appeared in his hand. It was the fully manifested Soul Calibre.

"Haap!"

Reynolds cut through the sky with the sword.

Kiiiing-!

It made a terrible noise. Theodore blocked his ears unconsciously and realized that he had escaped from Reynolds' body. He didn't know how, but Reynolds had separated Theodore from his body. The noise from before was probably this forceful separation. Real hearing did not mean much in the mental world.

Theodore asked Reynolds with a confused expression, "Why did you suddenly do this, Sir Spencer?"

"I want to check something. Use Soul Calibre."

A great hero wouldn't speak nonsense. Theodore wasn't sure about the reason, but he complied with Reynolds' demand.

'Soul Calibre.'

It might be different for other magicians, but astral magic wasn't an unfamiliar concept for Theodore. The Umbra imprint glowed, and a soft green sword rose from his right hand. Of course, the strength and radiance were lacking compared to Reynolds' version. However, the shape of the blade could be seen clearly.

"Hoh…!" Reynolds said admiringly, "You can certainly form it. Moreover, the green light symbolizes life and hope. I haven't seen such a beautiful light in a long time."

"Ah, thank you."

"But it is as I expected. Look closely."

Reynolds took the white light sword in his hand and used it to touch Theodore's green light sword. The moment that the two lights touched…

Kakang! Theodore's Soul Calibre broke with a cheerful sound.

"Ah?"

It broke like a cracker. The blade, which was made of a considerable amount of magic power, had broken easily. Theodore looked at Reynolds for an explanation. Reynolds showed his Soul Calibre and opened his mouth, "You can manifest Soul Calibre, but you can't reproduce the power. I'm not trying to dismiss your magic. It was like this from the start."

"Like this from the start?"

"Soul Calibre is literally a sword of the soul. Its strength is determined by the power of the soul that forms the blade. Magic power can make it take the shape of a sword, but it doesn't compensate for the underlying strength."

It was like a pavilion formed out of granules of sand. The smallest repulsive force would break it. That was why Theodore's Soul Calibre was broken. Theodore had been inspired by Umbra and managed to succeed in creating Soul Calibre with his eight circles. However, unlike Reynolds, Theodore wouldn't be able to cut a high-ranking demon with it.

"This is why my family, the Spencer clan, quench their souls for several generations before handing it over to future generations. I am the final result." Compared to Reynolds' calm voice, the contents of what he said were fearsome.

A soul being made into a sword, and a clan that handed it down for generations, repeating this process over and over… It was a history that couldn't be revealed to outsiders. Reynolds was Spencer's descendant. Theodore soon realized why Reynolds had asserted this. After all, Reynolds shouldered the responsibility of his ancestors who had given up their souls.

When the weight of the responsibility dawned upon Theodore, his face paled. Meanwhile, Reynolds just laughed and shrugged. "Don't worry about my past. Shouldn't you be paying attention to how to complete your imperfect Soul Calibre?"

"…Is there a method to do so?" Theodore asked in a quiet voice.

"I don't know," Reynolds responded instantly, without any hesitation. "If there were such a method, my family wouldn't have needed to inherit Soul Calibre from previous generations. The special magic, Soul Calibre, exerts its power when it is built up through time. There is no way to master it other than to train it thoroughly. At least, I don't know of one."

"But there is no time."

The fundamental structure of Soul Calibre needed a few generations to build up like the Spencer family. Jerem's invasion was a month away, and Theodore had too much to do to only focus on Soul Calibre. Reynolds, who received Theodore's memories through Synchro, couldn't help complaining, "I'm sorry that I can't be helpful. If possible, I would like to lend a hand directly…"

A warlock who had contracted with Nídhöggur, a villain trying to swallow up the world tree… There was no better enemy for a hero to punish. If Reynolds were still alive, he would've run to Elvenheim instantly. However, Reynolds Spencer died a long time ago. This was just a fragment of his soul.

Theodore was feeling frustrated when he suddenly had a thought.

The dead, a fragment of the soul…

Soul Calibre was a sword of the soul.

It was a technique inherited from generation to generation.

Reynolds Spencer…

Several puzzle pieces hovered in Theodore's mind and settled together in a suitable shape. It was an idea that was worthy of applause if another magician saw it. Theodore didn't hesitate to speak his idea. Shortly after that…

"…Are you a genius?" Reynolds was amazed.

* * *

Less than half an hour later, Theodore woke up from his synchro with Reynolds.

Paak!

He jumped up like he didn't want to waste a minute, moving to an empty spot without any ents or dryads. Theodore was worried that someone might up caught up in the aftermath of his magic. Theoretically, there weren't any errors. However, a magician should always be cautious when practicing.

"Huoong…" He took a few deep breaths and relaxed his body. His blood circulated in his muscles, and shortly after that, his stiff muscles stretched and his joints became flexible. Theodore finished his brief preparatory exercises and closed his eyes. For a magician, vision wasn't a problem. However, embedded habits were surprisingly helpful for concentration.

'Umbra,' he summoned the imprint on his right arm. There was a glowing light, and Theodore's spiritual senses reached another realm. Simultaneously, a sword rose from his right hand.

"Okay, there is no problem so far."

Soul Calibre, an astral magic that interfered with the soul, was a magic that Reynolds had evaluated as a power that couldn't be used in practice. However, this time, there were some differences from the sword Theodore had made in the mental world. This sword shone brilliantly, and Theodore's right hand cut at the empty space before him. Just like Reynolds had shown him, it was like a lightning strike across the sky.

Kiiiing-! The space was separated.

For a moment, the special space used in the techniques of the 2nd Sword, Zest Speitem, was revealed. There was a wall of darkness that no physical force could pass, a joint that connected space. Theodore's Soul Calibre cut that joint. It was an eerie and destructive power.

Theodore erased the white sword and grinned. 'I can't exactly call it my Soul Calibre.'

Theodore muttered strange words as he looked down at his right arm. No, he was just talking to someone who couldn't be seen. "How about it, Sir Spencer?"

Reynolds' voice was conveyed from Theodore's right arm. To be precise, it was the engraving on his arm.

[Good! It is a bit lacking compared to my prime, but the undead won't be able to go against it.]

"It is really great."

That's right. Rather than forming Soul Calibre with his own soul, Theodore shifted Reynold's soul to Umbra and had him manifest Soul Calibre.

It was only a fragment of the soul and couldn't be compared to when he was alive. However, Reynold's Soul Calibre had been tempered over several generations and was much stronger than Theodore's. It was sufficient to play a role in the fight against Jerem.

Theodore had used a shortcut of intervening with the soul using Umbra's power.

'One means of attack has been determined. Sir Spencer's Soul Calibre can kill Jerem.'

Among the warlocks who were outside of the framework of ordinary life, the necromancers had especially strong vitality. Despite being injured by Mitra's power previously, ordinary attacks wouldn't hurt Jerem even if he were hit by several Infernos. Thus, Theodore needed to acquire an attack that would work against Jerem.

"Please take care of me, Sir Spencer."

[Yes! Will you inherit the name of my family? This is guaranteed by Reynolds Spencer!]

It was a bonus that Theodore added one more talkative person to his household.