Category: This Necromancer Wants to Capture the Hearts of Deceased Beautiful Girls

Chapter 30: The Young Druid and His “Wives”

“Oh, I’m so sorry! I suspected you,” the female dwarf Druid said sheepishly to Leona. “Are your other… sisters like this as well?”

“Yes, they’re even older than me,” Leona replied, nodding seriously. If they only counted their time as living beings, she was indeed the oldest. But if they considered their actual age, Rebecca was the oldest, despite having died at a younger age.

Since she wasn’t lying, Leona’s expression was calm and natural, further convincing the Druids of their miraculous age-defying techniques.

A female halfling Druid, her voice filled with envy, asked, “What’s your secret? How do you maintain your youthful appearance at fifty or sixty? I’m so jealous!”

“Our beauty regimen is quite simple,” Leona said, preening slightly. “The key is quality sleep. Peace, tranquility, and emotional detachment. It’s proven to be very effective. I’m happy to share our secret. You should try it sometime.”

The female Druids, and even a few males, began taking notes. Flora and Rebecca, standing nearby, exchanged awkward glances. Was Leona misleading them, or was she telling the truth? In a way, she was being honest…

“So, the Druid among you must be this young man,” the dwarf said, looking at Abyss, her admiration evident. “My, what a handsome lad. I’ve never seen such a fine figure of a young man… Wait, you’re not a sixty or seventy-year-old man in disguise, are you?”

“I’m not an old man. I’m quite young, actually,” Abyss said, his innocent smile unwavering. “I’m just… exceptionally gifted.”

The Druids looked at him with disdain. This shameless brat! He was clearly lying! Such arrogance!

But Abyss felt no shame. He hadn’t lied.

…

The Druids’ lifestyle was simple, but they weren’t poor. Living in harmony with nature, their resources were limitless. Abyss and his companions’ accommodations, a large treehouse woven from vines, had been prepared in advance.

Elven craftsmanship extended even to their Druidic structures. This treehouse, built with natural materials, was not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, its design intricate and elegant.

“We’re sharing a house?” Leona asked, blushing, her initial excitement replaced by a sudden shyness. “Do they think we’re a family?”

“What are you talking about, Leona?” Abyss asked, looking at her. “Even though I don’t remember, we’re practically family, aren’t we? There’s nothing wrong with sharing a house.”

“Exactly,” Rebecca said, taking Abyss’s hand. “From now on, I’ll be Rebecca Belator. It has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?”

Flora, standing beside them, blushed, silently considering the name “Flora Belator.”

Leona, realizing that Rebecca had taken advantage of her feigned reluctance, quickly clarified, “I didn’t mean we’re not a family! I just… I’m worried about ABC. He’s a pervert! What if he tries something…”

“Don’t worry, Leona. We’re best friends. We’ll protect you!” Rebecca said, giggling, tightening her grip on Abyss’s hand.

“I… I’ll protect you too, Leona,” Flora said softly, raising a fist in solidarity.

Leona wished she could summon Rebecca’s time machine and kick her past self.

They climbed the tree and discovered that the treehouse was larger than it appeared, divided into four separate but interconnected rooms, eliminating any potential awkwardness.

As they settled in, oblivious to the prying eyes of a few Druids watching them from nearby trees, their expressions a mix of disapproval and envy…

“The world is changing. We Druids should be pure and detached, focused on communing with nature. But this human Druid, brazenly flaunting his three wives, engaging in such indecent behavior in broad daylight… Is this right? I think not!” an elderly male elf, his hair white, said to his companion, shaking his head and sighing.

“Indeed. Such a hedonistic lifestyle leaves little time for spiritual practice, for communing with the God of Nature. It’s absurd!” another elf agreed.

“Hmph, the younger generation is becoming increasingly depraved. I shudder to think what will become of our order. The world has changed. Back in my day…” another Druid chimed in from a nearby tree.

A female Druid, disturbed by their chatter, poked her head out of her treehouse. “I can practically smell the jealousy from here. If you had found partners yourselves, you wouldn’t be so envious,” she said, her voice laced with disdain.

“Silence! We’re not like that!” the male Druids exclaimed in unison, their voices indignant. The female Druid rolled her eyes and retreated back into her treehouse.

“My friends, I propose we gather a few more of us and visit this gray-haired boy, engage him in a discussion about Druidic magic. Someone so preoccupied with worldly pleasures must be lacking in discipline. He’ll surely reveal his ignorance, and we can guide him back to the true path,” the first elf suggested.

The other two elderly elves nodded eagerly. They, high-ranking Druids over a hundred years old, still single, would teach this young man a lesson about the dangers of indulgence!

Chapter 29: The Outsiders’ Quarters

“What’s your idea?” Leona asked, staring at Abyss. “You’re going to get us kicked out! Can you feel the Grand Sage’s urge to banish us right now?”

“I’m just trying to solve the sacred tree’s problem,” Abyss said, pouting defensively. “I have a plan. It will help us locate the source of its mana. Then we can trace it back to the root of the problem.”

“Tell us your plan,” Rebecca said, her voice filled with curiosity. She wasn’t concerned about the Druids’ opinions. Once they solved the problem, everything would be fine.

Abyss, a smug grin on his face, patted the sacred tree’s rough bark. “The problem is the high mana density, right? It’s preventing us from observing the mana flow.”

“That’s correct,” Rebecca said, listening intently.

“So, we should focus on the mana density,” Abyss continued, his hands on his hips, as he looked up at the tree. “If I drain all the mana from this area, the density will decrease, and we’ll be able to see where the new mana flows from. That will reveal the sacred tree’s mana source. Brilliant, isn’t it?”

“You’re trying to give the Grand Sage a heart attack…” Leona said, slapping her forehead.

“Of course, I won’t do it now. That would be too much of a shock. He seems like a sensitive person,” Abyss said, chuckling. “I’ll suggest it during the meeting, after some preparation. I don’t want them to think I’m trying to destroy their sacred tree. For now, we can relax or investigate those magical animals.”

…

They descended from the sacred tree and headed towards their assigned accommodations, which they had been shown earlier. The Druid council didn’t have many guests. The guesthouses, located on the outskirts of the council’s territory, were simple vine-woven structures, their surfaces still green, adorned with small flowers.

“I’ve never stayed in a treehouse before!” Leona exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement, as she bounced ahead, examining the structures. “Do all Druids live in such elegant homes? So refined! Those Western Empire nobles, with their vulgar tastes, should learn a thing or two from these elves!”

Flora, although less enthusiastic, was also intrigued. As a Saint, she had traveled extensively, even visiting the Elven Kingdoms, but she had always stayed in palaces, befitting her status.

“This place is quite charming. Perhaps I’ll find some inspiration here,” Rebecca said, her gaze sweeping across the treehouses.

“I wonder if corpses decompose faster here. The biological activity seems quite high,” Abyss said, his voice serious, as he examined the surrounding vegetation.

“Master Arcaiste said our accommodations are marked with purple and blue flowers… Let’s find them,” Leona said, her eyes scanning the treehouses, some already occupied by other Druids.

As they entered the area designated for guests, several curious faces peered out from the treehouses.

Even among the visiting Druids, elves were the majority, Wood Elves and the less common Light Elves comprising most of the population. The rest were humans, dwarves, and a few halflings. They were all high-ranking Druids, their age evident, especially among the humans, their hair white, their faces wrinkled, the dwarves’ beards reaching their knees, and the halflings resembling the Lannis they had met in Lavoisier City.

Flora greeted their neighbors with a polite curtsy, her beauty attracting their attention.

Leona wanted to shout “What are you looking at?!” but Flora’s politeness restrained her.

“My friends, do you know where the treehouse with purple and blue flowers is located? We’re looking for our accommodations,” Abyss asked, his voice friendly.

Although most Druids ignored them, a female dwarf, her voice gruff, replied, “I know. It’s at the end of the path, to the left of that little girl. You’re all high-ranking Druids? You seem so young. I’ve never seen such young high-ranking Druids before.”

Druids relied on experience and their connection to nature to enhance their magic. This meant that achieving high rank required not only talent, but also time and patience. Fortunately, as long as they had sufficient talent, they would eventually reach a high level, their long lifespans ensuring ample time for growth. After all, balance was the core of their philosophy. A Druid who couldn’t maintain their own health would be a disgrace.

The dwarf’s question, however, sparked the interest of the other Druids. Abyss and his companions did look incredibly young. Flora, due to her demeanor, seemed the most mature, followed by Rebecca. Abyss looked like an adolescent, and Leona, well, she looked like a child.

“Did the council recruit a bunch of charlatans?” one Druid whispered to another. Their voices were low, but their words didn’t escape Abyss and his companions’ enhanced hearing.

Druids were generally distrustful of young people.

The old Leona would have enjoyed this, keeping their true identities a secret, allowing Abyss to reveal their power later, humiliating those who had underestimated them. But she had changed, her time with Abyss making her disdainful of such petty games.

She puffed out her chest. “Don’t let my appearance fool you. I’m almost sixty years old. I might not be a Druid, but I’ve spent many years buried in the earth, communing with nature.”

The Druids, impressed by her “dedication,” nodded approvingly, giving her a thumbs-up. Although she wasn’t a Druid, her methods were certainly… hardcore.

Chapter 28: Searching for the Mana Source

Although Arcaiste was suspicious of Abyss’s true nature, he had witnessed his power in the Ossi Kingdom and had decided to trust him, at least for now. As an outsider (or so he claimed), Abyss wouldn’t normally be allowed near the sacred tree, let alone touch it. But with Arcaiste’s permission, he and his followers could examine it freely, even climb it or fly around it, as long as they didn’t harm it.

After being shown to their temporary accommodations by a few Druids, Abyss, accompanied by the girls, began their investigation.

The sacred tree was truly massive, perhaps the largest living organism in Hai-Teweru, dwarfing even ancient giants. Examining its entirety at once was impossible. Abyss used wind magic to lift them into the air, slowly circling the tree, starting from its base.

“Abyss, why are you examining the sacred tree? The Druids haven’t found anything wrong with it,” Leona asked, her voice carrying through their telepathic link, as they floated beside him.

The tree itself wasn’t particularly interesting. Although its size was impressive, up close, it was just a very large tree. And it hadn’t bloomed yet, its withering leaves resembling those of any unhealthy tree.

“I think he’s looking for the source of its mana,” Rebecca said, smiling.

Abyss, hearing her, snapped his fingers, turning to face them. “Correct. That’s exactly what I’m doing.”

“So you’re trying to find the cause of its withering by tracing its mana flow?” Flora asked, realizing his intentions. “Didn’t the Druids think of that?”

Abyss patted the rough bark of the sacred tree. “Not just the Druids. Even you didn’t think of it at first.”

Leona, after a moment of thought, nodded. “That’s true. We didn’t. The Druids are looking for external causes, environmental factors. But isn’t the mana source connected to the environment?”

“The sacred tree has been a part of the Druids’ lives for over forty years. They’ve become accustomed to its presence, taking it for granted. When it started withering, they instinctively looked for external causes, something that harmed it. Its mana source might indeed be connected to the environment, but the surrounding area is vast. It would take them forever to investigate every possible factor,” Abyss explained, shaking his head, as he looked up at the massive tree.

“Indeed, even if they summoned all the high-ranking Druids, they might not find a solution,” Rebecca said, her voice filled with confidence. “Their best decision was to invite you here. No one else can solve this.”

“Even though I’m not a Druid?” Abyss asked, his mental voice laced with amusement.

“I’m always objective. I’m not flattering you. Your skills far surpass those of any other Druid,” Rebecca said, smiling. “Even if you weren’t a Druid, you’re still the most powerful mage on the continent—as long as you don’t resurrect Agnes.”

“I’ll resurrect her eventually. I don’t remember why I’m so determined to resurrect you five geniuses, but since you told me it’s important, I’ll trust your judgment,” Abyss said, shrugging.

The three girls knew that even with amnesia, Abyss hadn’t changed.

“So, how do you plan to find the sacred tree’s mana source?” Flora asked. The tree was massive, and the surrounding mana density was incredibly high. Using ordinary magic to trace its flow seemed impossible.

“I’m working on it,” Abyss said, glancing at her. “This tree is unique. I’ll try using magic to detect the mana flow. Be prepared.”

He chanted a short spell and snapped his fingers.

The mana within a certain radius began to glow. This spell was meant to visualize mana flow, but the effect was underwhelming—the mana density was so high that instead of revealing distinct streams or currents, it created a massive, blinding blob of turquoise light.

The sudden burst of light momentarily blinded them. The girls shielded their eyes, their enhanced senses momentarily overwhelmed. If they were ordinary undead, they might have been injured.

“Ouch!” “What was that?!” “Who cast a Flash spell?!”

The light, rivaling the sun’s brightness, startled the elves of Keshel, their cries of surprise echoing through the nearby villages. Some, unfortunate enough to be looking directly at it, were temporarily blinded.

“Oops…” Abyss quickly dispelled the spell.

But it was too late. Someone was approaching.

Arcaiste, the Grand Sage, his face etched with concern, floated upwards using wind magic, his gaze fixed on Abyss. “Mr. Belator… what was that?”

“Ah, my apologies. I was trying to detect the mana flow, but the mana density here is too high. It didn’t work,” Abyss said, scratching his head sheepishly. “I’m trying to find a solution for the sacred tree.”

“Please be careful. Don’t harm the nearby residents. If you need anything, let me know. And if you discover anything, please inform me immediately,” Arcaiste said, sighing, but his voice was calm, his demeanor patient.

“My apologies. I’ll be more careful next time,” Abyss said quickly.

Arcaiste bowed and floated back down.

As soon as he was gone, Abyss clapped his hands. “I have an idea!”

Chapter 27: A Presumptuous Guest

Inside the Grand Sage’s residence, Abyss and his companions sat on the floor, facing Arcaiste, who was also seated.

“It would be helpful if you understood our current mission,” Abyss said, smiling and nodding.

Arcaiste nodded slightly. “I know you’re trying to save our world from powerful entities, Mr. Belator. I admire your dedication. And we’re grateful for your willingness to help us with the sacred tree and the animals. When I observed the aphid swarm in the Ossi Kingdom, I was astonished by such a display of Druidic power. It’s fortunate to have you on our side.”

Abyss sensed no deception in his words. Although Arcaiste had clearly investigated him (thanks to Abyss’s decision to make his name known throughout the Ossi Kingdom), he didn’t know Abyss’s true nature as a necromancer. Few knew his secret, and the Druids weren’t among them.

The legends circulating in Ossi only spoke of a powerful mage. No one knew his specialization. Even Givia’s miraculous recovery in the dream, her headless body continuing to fight, hadn’t raised any suspicions—after all, Abyss hadn’t used any magic. It was Givia’s own willpower.

“Since you know we have no ill intentions, that makes things easier,” Abyss said, smiling. “I have a few questions. You might not agree to help if you didn’t know our purpose.”

Arcaiste paused. “Ask away.”

The three girls behind Abyss exchanged uneasy glances. What was he planning now?

“I’d like to see the remains of your former Grand Sage, Agnes Delastir. Is that possible?” Abyss asked, smiling.

“Her remains?” Arcaiste’s eyebrow twitched. He was clearly taken aback by this strange request. “Why… Why would you want to see her remains?”

“I need her power. I can’t reveal the details, as that knowledge could get you erased by the Nine Gods,” Abyss said, his gaze sincere. “But I assure you, I have no malicious intentions. Could you allow me to see Miss Agnes? It’s very important to me. Although her burial site is unknown, I thought you, as the Grand Sage, might…”

“I’m afraid I can’t help you,” Arcaiste said, his voice hesitant, his expression troubled. “I don’t know where Agnes is buried. If you asked other Druids, like Master Mustalian, they would have told you the same. Her funeral was conducted by animals. We have no knowledge of her burial site.”

Abyss sensed his hesitation, the subtle trembling of his soul. Although he was composed, he wasn’t a good liar.

The current Grand Sage likely knew where Agnes was buried, but he didn’t trust Abyss yet.

Abyss wasn’t surprised. Trust wasn’t easily earned. His question had been a test, a way to gauge Arcaiste’s knowledge. He had achieved his goal.

“It’s alright, Master Arcaiste. My request was presumptuous. I understand. We’re here primarily to address the issue of the sacred tree. Please don’t worry about it,” Abyss said, spreading his hands.

“Well… thank you,” Arcaiste said, nodding slowly, his mind filled with questions.

What was this Belator’s true purpose? He had welcomed several high-ranking Druids to the council, some seeking knowledge, others seeking a home, some wanting rare ingredients, even a few looking for romance. He had always been accommodating. But this young man, upon their first meeting, had requested to see the remains of their former Grand Sage? Druids weren’t interested in the dead. To them, corpses were simply fertilizer.

He glanced at Abyss, noticing his unusually pale complexion.

What kind of mage was interested in the dead? Could he be a necromancer? The thought made him uneasy.

Druids despised necromancers, and Arcaiste was no exception. In his experience, they were evil, sinister, and unscrupulous. But Abyss was different—he had helped an entire kingdom, fought against an Outer God, and hadn’t demanded any reward. Was he misjudging Abyss? Was he simply mad? Or was he planning something far more sinister?

Arcaiste was conflicted. As the Grand Sage, he couldn’t openly question his guest, especially one as powerful as Abyss.

Trying to maintain his composure, he said, “Some of our members haven’t returned yet. While we await their arrival, Mr. Belator, you and your companions can stay at our guesthouse. I’ll have someone escort you there. We’ll convene a meeting soon to discuss the current problems.”

“I have another question,” Abyss said, raising his hand, deepening the frown lines on Arcaiste’s forehead.

“Ask away, Mr. Belator.”

“May I examine the sacred tree? From top to bottom?”

Chapter 26: The Archdruid

“There are currently sixteen Sages in the Druid council, all of whom have made significant contributions to our order, or are individuals of great wisdom and virtue. And among these sixteen Sages, there is one Grand Sage, the undisputed leader of our order,” Baggs explained, leading them up a winding staircase formed from magically hardened vines, built into the massive trunk of the sacred tree.

“What’s the Grand Sage’s name? I’d like to be prepared,” Abyss asked. “I’ve been traveling the world and haven’t kept up with the council’s affairs.”

“Of course. His name is Bedor Physis Arcaiste. We usually address him as ‘Grand Sage,’ but you can call him Master Arcaiste. We Druids aren’t concerned with formalities, unlike those stuffy elves,” Baggs replied.

Abyss hadn’t heard of this Grand Sage. The Druid council hadn’t made any significant contributions or been involved in any major events since Agnes’s death. Their reclusive nature limited their influence. Most people knew of their existence, but few understood their purpose, some even mistakenly believing they were simply farmers.

“Anything I should know before meeting Master Arcaiste?” Abyss asked.

Baggs, his cat form padding softly ahead, thought for a moment. “He’s a serious man, often melancholic, rarely smiles, and he doesn’t seem to have much of a sense of humor. Conversations with him can be a bit dull. But he’s a good person, his principles strong, although he’s not very expressive.”

They climbed the vine staircase, passing numerous dwellings built into the tree trunk, the homes of the council’s core members, all high-ranking Druids. The Grand Sage, the most powerful and respected among them, resided at the top.

They reached the topmost level, where a large, vine-woven structure, without a door, served as the Grand Sage’s residence. A figure sat inside, their back to the entrance.

“Master Arcaiste, I’ve returned,” Baggs called out softly.

The figure turned, revealing a face with sharp, angular features.

He wasn’t what Abyss had expected. He had imagined an elderly Druid with a long white beard, but this Grand Sage seemed relatively young, perhaps less than a hundred years old, equivalent to a human in their thirties or forties. He had silver hair, silver eyes, and his features suggested some Gray Elf ancestry. His skin was smooth, his face handsome, but a lingering sadness in his eyes and his pale lips gave him a melancholic air.

“Welcome back, Master Mustalian,” the Grand Sage said, recognizing Baggs instantly, then turned to Abyss. “And welcome to you as well, human Druid.”

“Master Arcaiste, if there’s nothing else, my apprentice and I will take our leave,” Baggs said, backing away and hopping onto Maggie’s shoulder. He still wasn’t wearing any clothes and wanted to leave before transforming back.

“Very well,” the Grand Sage said, nodding. “Thank you for your efforts. I’ll have a chat with our human brother. Attend to your duties, Maggie. I’ll handle everything here.”

“But Master, I want to hear your conversation with Mr. Belator! What if they discuss something useful, and I learn something new, and I invent a powerful new spell? This is a rare opportunity! Mr. Belator’s mastery of Druidic arts must be…”

Baggs clamped his paw over her mouth. “Enough! Go and rest! Do you want to give the Grand Sage another headache?!”

Baggs and Maggie left, and the Grand Sage turned to Abyss. “Master Mustalian informed me of your arrival. Thank you for coming to assist us, Abyss… or rather, Mr. ABC Belator.”

“It’s nothing. I’m happy to help,” Abyss said, waving his hand dismissively.

“On behalf of the Druid council, I also welcome your companions,” Master Arcaiste said, addressing the three girls.

They curtsied politely, their composure unwavering. They were accustomed to such formal occasions.

“The aphid swarm you commanded, Mr. Belator, was a remarkable feat,” Arcaiste said, his silver eyes fixed on Abyss, his voice filled with admiration, but his expression still melancholic. “To control so many insects and disperse that potion across the entire Ossi Kingdom demonstrates exceptional skill. Perhaps even I couldn’t achieve such a feat.”

“You’re too kind,” Abyss said, waving his hand dismissively. “I’m just an ordinary Druid. My skills and my experience are nothing compared to yours.”

“I believe I know your enemy, and I’ve learned about your goals through various channels. But I won’t pry. I suspect your true purpose is beyond my comprehension,” Arcaiste said suddenly.

Abyss, who had been expecting a casual conversation, was surprised by his directness. His actions in the Ossi Kingdom weren’t a secret, but this Grand Sage had quickly deduced that there were things he shouldn’t know. This man was more perceptive than he appeared.

“Indeed, there are things I can’t reveal, Master Arcaiste. But I assure you, I’m here to help,” Abyss replied, raising an eyebrow.

Chapter 25: The Druids’ Daily Activities

Before Maggie could answer, the naked figure swung back, their cries echoing through the forest.

“Ooooooh!”

This time, they could see him clearly—a male elf, a single leaf covering his genitals, his muscular body tanned, his long brown hair swaying in the wind, his face contorted in a look of ecstatic joy.

“What… what is he doing?” Leona asked, staring at the elf as he swung from tree to tree, his bare buttocks flashing, his laughter echoing through the forest.

“Is he a pervert?” Rebecca asked, her usual composure shaken. “Are all Druids like this?”

“Well… it’s a kind of… daily activity…” Baggs said, embarrassed. “Not everyone does this, of course. It’s a form of spiritual practice, a way to connect with nature. Swinging from vines is a way to feel the wind, the rhythm of the forest… We Druids believe in following our instincts, expressing ourselves freely. We’re used to it… ahaha…”

“So this is how you commune with nature?” Abyss asked, nodding. “I might try it sometime. Perhaps I’ll gain some insights.”

“If you do that, I’ll never let you touch my head again!” Leona warned.

Abyss, his feelings hurt, although he didn’t remember why he liked touching her head, closed his mouth.

“Well… it seems Mr. Belator’s habits differ from ours. I should warn you about what you might encounter here,” Maggie said. “Druids express their connection to nature in various ways, most of which involve nudity. It allows us to feel the wind against our skin, the pulse of the earth… You’ll be staying here for a few days. It’s best to be prepared… Of course, we do cover ourselves in public areas. We’ve become more civilized since ancient times…”

Before she could finish, a group of elven Druids, wearing simple leaf loincloths, ran past them, their faces beaming, chanting as they ran, small sprouts of grass emerging from their footprints, replacing the trampled plants.

Was the Druid council a gathering of perverts? Flora, clinging to Leona’s arm, felt a sense of unease.

“Well… standing here isn’t very productive. Let’s go inside, meet with the Grand Sage, and greet the other high-ranking Druids. I wonder how many have gathered,” Baggs suggested.

“By the way, Baggs, why do you always stay in your cat form?” Abyss asked suddenly. “Is there a reason?”

“Ahem… well… it’s not a big deal… I don’t dislike my elven form, but I wasn’t wearing any clothes when I transformed. It would be rude to revert back here… I might be a flirt, but I do have some sense of decency…”

…

The Druid council didn’t have stables. Visitors simply tied their horses wherever they pleased. The horses could graze freely, even on the medicinal herbs. The Druids didn’t interfere with nature’s course. East Wind and the undead warhorse, one a familiar, the other undead, were content to wait patiently.

They followed Baggs deeper into the forest, observing the Druids.

Not all of them were running around naked. When not engaged in their spiritual practices, they seemed quite civilized, dressed in simple clothes made of animal hides and coarse cloth, reading, conversing, or conducting experiments. They greeted Abyss and his companions with polite nods, their friendliness, as Maggie had described, genuine.

The closer they got to the sacred tree, the denser the mana became, almost viscous at the innermost circle. It was a paradise for mages, but access was restricted to senior members of the council and high-ranking Druids like Abyss (or rather, the Druid he was impersonating). Others could only visit during designated times, free of charge, of course. Druids weren’t concerned with money.

“Ah, Master Mustalian, you’ve returned! Who are these humans? Are they Druids as well?”

Before they reached the Grand Sage’s residence, Baggs encountered a familiar face. He had been addressed by his surname.

A tiger, walking towards them, greeted them in a deep, masculine voice, clearly another Druid in animal form.

“This gray-haired gentleman is a Druid. The others are his family,” Baggs replied. “Don’t underestimate him. Remember the aphid swarm the Grand Sage observed? He was the one who commanded them.”

The tiger looked at Abyss with newfound respect. “My apologies. It’s a pleasure to meet you, fellow Druid.”

Maggie stepped forward. “Uncle Arcassel! I’m back! You won’t believe what I saw in the Ossi Kingdom! Speaking of the Ossi Kingdom, let me tell you about my trip to the Eastern Empire…”

“Oh dear! My stomach! I think it’s my monthly… I have to go!” the tiger, Arcassel, exclaimed, interrupting her, his voice filled with panic, as he turned and fled, as if he had seen a ghost.

Chapter 24: A First Glimpse of the Sacred Tree

As they drew closer to the sacred tree, the mana in the air grew denser. Its immense size became more apparent with each passing hill, its massive trunk and sprawling branches, large enough to cover a medium-sized city, finally coming into full view. The elven settlements, clustered around its base, formed concentric circles. And at the innermost circle, a dense network of vines, shaped by Druidic magic into habitable structures, marked the location of the Druid council.

“The sacred tree isn’t just a plant. It has a form of sentience,” Baggs explained. “Notice the lush vegetation beneath it?”

They looked. A dense forest thrived under the tree’s vast canopy, some elven villages nestled within its branches.

This was unusual. Such a large tree would normally cast a deep shadow, preventing undergrowth.

But the sacred tree’s shadow wasn’t uniform. Sunlight filtered through its canopy in certain areas.

“Its leaves can change shape?” Abyss asked, glancing at Baggs.

“Indeed, Mr. Belator, you’re very perceptive,” Baggs said, nodding. “The sacred tree manipulates its branches and leaves, allowing sunlight to reach the ground below, creating a habitable environment beneath its canopy.”

“That’s quite considerate,” Abyss remarked. “What about rain?”

“Its root system is vast, sharing water and nutrients with the surrounding plants. It’s a self-regulating ecosystem, a living magic array,” Baggs explained proudly. “Thanks to the sacred tree, the alchemical ingredients grown here are incredibly potent and abundant. Those villages you see cultivate these ingredients, supplying the world.”

As they rode through Keshel, the area surrounding the sacred tree, passing through the elven villages, Abyss and his companions observed the elves’ way of life.

Elven society had a relaxed, unhurried pace. Their long lifespans allowed them ample time for leisure and reflection. They valued spiritual pursuits above material wealth.

The villages were mostly inhabited by Wood Elves, the dominant elven population. Dark Elves and Light Elves were less common. Dark Elves, with their differing values, preferred to live separately. Light Elves, although numerous, were often ostracized due to their mixed heritage.

Laughter and music filled the air as they passed through the villages, the melodies of elven instruments echoing through the streets.

These elven farmers, cultivators of medicinal herbs, were also artists. The Gray Elves, who governed the Elven Kingdoms, provided free education for all children, ensuring literacy and cultural understanding. Their manners were impeccable, their speech refined.

The literacy rate in the Elven Kingdoms was almost one hundred percent, a stark contrast to even the well-educated Western Empire.

The villagers of Keshel, wary of the humans, kept their distance, despite their polite nature.

“I apologize. Elves are distrustful of humans now,” Baggs whispered to Abyss. “They don’t know you’re a high-ranking Druid here to help.”

“It’s alright,” Abyss said, waving his hand dismissively. He was used to such reactions.

“Don’t worry, we’ll reach the Druid council soon. They’re welcoming towards all, especially those who come to help,” Maggie said, pointing ahead.

“That’s good to hear,” Leona said, nodding. She didn’t like being regarded with suspicion.

They rode through the villages, past vast fields of medicinal herbs, then entered a dense forest, its trees and vines intertwined, flowers blooming everywhere. Passing through a natural archway formed by the trees, they entered the Druid council’s territory.

“Ooooooh!”

A naked figure, swinging from a vine, shouting gibberish, suddenly appeared before them.

“What was that?” Flora asked, startled.

Chapter 23: A First Glimpse of the Sacred Tree

As the sun rose, Maggie and Baggs awoke. Abyss and his companions had been chatting, then switched to their telepathic link later in the night, discussing their plans, then simply enjoying each other’s company, their conversation flowing freely. The peace they had found, after defeating the Lord of Nightmares, was precious. And the forest, bathed in moonlight, was beautiful. They finally had a chance to relax.

They had a mission, but even heroes needed a break.

“Ah… That was a good sleep. I’m exhausted after running around the Ossi Kingdom. I haven’t had a proper rest in days,” Baggs said, still in his cat form, stretching languidly, his paws extended.

“Master, you haven’t been working that hard. We were only in Ossi for a few days, and I had to stop you from visiting brothels four times,” Maggie said, looking at him disapprovingly. “I know you can get free… services in your cat form, but you should choose your moments! I was the one doing all the work, gathering information!”

“An old man like me can’t compete with a youthful, beautiful girl like you,” Baggs said, not the least bit ashamed. “And besides, my visits to those establishments weren’t for personal pleasure. The wild women of Ossi have a certain… charm. Wood Elves are too petite, Dark Elves too tall, Gray Elves are beyond my reach, and Light Elves don’t usually like old men. Human women are the best…”

“Keep your dating advice to yourself. I’m not interested,” Maggie said, interrupting him, then turned to Abyss. “Why are you all awake so early? Did you sleep well? I had a wonderful dream. I don’t remember the details, but it was pleasant. If you’re interested, I can tell you about another dream I had. It was a hot summer night, and I was naked in a tree, covered by a large leaf…”

“We didn’t sleep. We were chatting,” Rebecca said, interrupting Maggie’s story before it could get too graphic.

“You didn’t sleep?” Baggs asked, his cat ears perking up, his eyes gleaming. “Mr. Belator is truly a man of vigor. I anticipated this, so I covered my ears while sleeping. I didn’t want to disturb your… intimate conversations with these beautiful ladies,” he said, folding his ears flat against his head, as if demonstrating his ability to block out sounds.

The three girls realized he hadn’t heard the second part of Rebecca’s sentence. Only Abyss, his face adorned with his usual vacant smile, seemed oblivious.

“I slept too soundly!” Maggie exclaimed, slapping her forehead in frustration. “Sister Flora, can you teach me about… that? I’m so curious! Can four people really have three times the fun?”

“Why me…?” Flora asked, blushing, waving her hands. “We were just… talking…”

“Mr. Belator, do you use your mouth during those late-night conversations?” Maggie asked, hopping over to Abyss, her eyes wide with curiosity.

Abyss thought for a moment, remembering their initial verbal exchange before switching to telepathy. “You mean last night? Well… of course we use our mouths. We all do,” he said.

“That’s so exciting! I’ll try it when I get married! Oh, wait, Wood Elves are monogamous,” Maggie said, hopping around excitedly.

The three girls wanted to silence Abyss, his innocent yet suggestive words infuriating them.

“Perhaps we should get going. Are you hungry?” Rebecca asked, trying to change the subject.

“I am a bit hungry, but we don’t need to eat now,” Maggie said. “We’ll reach the sacred tree soon, and the Druid council is nearby. We can eat there.”

…

They continued their journey. Maggie was right. After about an hour, they crested a hill, and a massive tree appeared in the distance.

Only its crown was visible, but even that was enough to convey its immense size. Abyss estimated its base must be as large as a medium-sized city. And the surrounding mana density was incredibly high, amplifying magic, making it an ideal location for training—although it wouldn’t benefit Abyss much. His mana reserves were already immense.

“That’s our sacred tree! The area around it is called Keshel, which means ‘shade’ in Elvish,” Maggie said, standing up on East Wind’s back, her balance impeccable. “Isn’t it beautiful? It’s a shame you haven’t visited before, Mr. Belator, even though you’re a Druid. You must visit the council! It’s a wonderful place for Druids! All the core members live in the tree!”

“The sacred tree isn’t looking very healthy,” Baggs said from Abyss’s shoulder. “Normally, in spring, it blooms beautiful flowers, their colorful petals, rich in magic, not just a beautiful sight, but also valuable alchemical ingredients. But it hasn’t bloomed this year. That’s not a good sign.”

Rebecca nodded. The genius Druid Agnes had died five years ago, and the sacred tree had begun growing rapidly and blooming shortly after her death. It was said that Agnes, knowing she wouldn’t survive her final mission, had transferred a portion of her power to the tree, a gift to future generations. The flowers it produced had unique magical properties, replacing several rare ingredients, enhancing the potency of potions. Rebecca still had some stored in her laboratory.

Perhaps if they helped the Druids, she could acquire more of these precious flowers.

Chapter 22: We Need a Druid

Agnes Lafarlia Delastir. Her name was once a legend in Hai-Teweru. The most gifted Druid in history. It was said that at her birth, animals gathered, butterflies danced around her, birds sang in the trees, and even nearby humans felt compelled to offer their praise.

A child prodigy in Druidic magic, she received the finest education from a young age. By six, she had mastered basic Druidic spells. By ten, she had mastered all the Druidic paths. By thirteen, she surpassed all other Druids.

She had surpassed her teachers, but her journey had just begun. Her most remarkable ability was her nightly meditation, replacing sleep, allowing her to commune with nature, each session bringing new insights, new spells, which she shared with her fellow Druids.

They quickly recognized her talent, naming her a Sage, a title reserved for the most accomplished Druids. And among the Sages, the most powerful, the one who had contributed the most to Druidic arts, was known as the Grand Sage.

Agnes became Grand Sage at the age of fifteen. Wood Elves matured slowly, their lifespans twice as long as humans’. They reached adulthood at thirty-four, roughly equivalent to a human’s seventeenth year. Agnes, at fifteen, was like a human child of seven and a half.

But no Druid questioned her worthiness. Her knowledge was so profound that some even suspected she was an avatar of the God of Nature himself.

Her legend spread throughout the Elven Kingdoms, a loose confederation often led by the wise Gray Elves, but lacking a single leader. The elves, recognizing her wisdom, saw her as their spiritual leader, a role she neither accepted nor rejected.

Despite her fame, she was humble and reclusive. Few outside the Elven Kingdoms had ever seen her. The portraits that depicted her were based on legends, varying wildly in their interpretations, from tall and imposing to small and childlike, even a few depicting her as a handsome young man.

This promising young genius, who could have ushered in a new era for Druidic arts, died at the age of twenty. The seas were turbulent that year, storms raging, preventing ships from sailing.

The storms themselves weren’t a major threat, but they were followed by the most devastating tsunami in recorded history. The massive waves threatened to engulf half the continent. Mortal magic was no match for such power. Even the combined efforts of all the elven mages couldn’t withstand a tenth of its force.

Agnes arrived as the waves approached the coast, only a few kilometers away. Without hesitation, she chose to face the tsunami alone, knowing that if other mages joined her, few would survive, leaving the Elven Kingdoms vulnerable to human invasion.

The young Druid, with her immense power, held back the tsunami, sacrificing her life to save her people, her heroic act becoming a legend, a source of both pride and sorrow.

Abyss needed her power. Although his memories of her were vague, he knew she was incredibly powerful, capable of influencing nature across the entire continent.

The phenomenon of animals learning magic was spreading, and this genius Druid was the only one who could reverse it without disrupting the balance of nature, a feat even Flora couldn’t achieve. Although Flora was a powerful Divine Arts user, her powers were focused on healing and protection, not on manipulating nature.

Abyss, although a mage, couldn’t control the world’s animals. He needed a specialist.

And then there was the matter of the Lord of Nightmares.

He had tried asking the Nine Gods for advice, but they had ignored him, his prayers unanswered.

They were likely annoyed. He had defeated an Outer God, but they weren’t obligated to reward him. They had simply used each other for their own purposes. And now he was asking them for help in restoring the Outer God’s power for his own use? That was absurd.

Neither Abyss nor the Nine Gods were fools. They knew their alliance was temporary, their goals ultimately conflicting.

Since the Nine Gods wouldn’t help, Abyss turned to Agnes, hoping she could provide some insights into the Lord of Nightmares’ current state.

The Outer God was now a tree. Perhaps Agnes knew how to care for it, how to restore its power? She possessed a fragment of the Creator God’s power. Perhaps she had a solution?

As for how to convince this powerful Druid to join him, he hadn’t figured that out yet, but he wasn’t worried. He had his three followers, and they seemed to have a close bond. Agnes, no matter how eccentric, was still human, wasn’t she? She couldn’t be a monster, could she?

Chapter 21: Playing with Illusions?

Abyss remained calm, not even flinching as the transformed Bender lunged at him, his elongated, rat-like teeth bared.

Crack!

A small stone, hurled by Leona, struck Bender in the mouth, shattering his teeth before he could reach Abyss.

“Argh!” Bender shrieked, clutching his mouth, collapsing to the ground, and writhing in pain.

Abyss had been about to kick Bender away, but Leona had acted preemptively. He glanced at her, a handful of pebbles in her hand, a smug grin on her face. Abyss smiled back, a flicker of their former connection, their unspoken understanding, resurfacing despite his amnesia.

“Get up,” Abyss said, grabbing the writhing merchant by the collar and lifting him. “You haven’t answered my question.”

“I’ll talk! I’ll tell you everything! It’s… it’s a crystal found in the brains of magic-wielding animals… That’s how they use magic!” Bender blurted out, his body trembling in fear. His elongated teeth had retracted, but blood seeped from the cracks in his now-normal incisors.

“And you grew those rat teeth by eating one of these crystals?” Abyss asked, holding up the pouch.

“Yes! Yes!” Bender confessed eagerly. “I found a crystal in a magic-wielding rat, and I ate it! Then I could grow teeth like a rat!”

“I see. I thought you were some kind of monster. You’re just a human who acquired power you couldn’t control,” Abyss said, nodding. “Now, tell me how you killed your companions. I’m curious.”

Normally, he would have simply resurrected the dead merchants and asked them directly, but he was maintaining his Druid persona.

“I’ll talk! I’ll talk! Sir, please let me go! I won’t run!” Bender pleaded, frantically trying to pry Abyss’s hand from his collar. “I’ll tell you everything! Anything you want to know!”

“If you promise not to run, I’ll release you,” Abyss said, nodding. He hadn’t been holding him tightly, just applying enough pressure to maintain control and instill fear.

He released Bender, who, his face now adorned with a servile grin, looked up at Abyss. “That crystal you’re holding… I extracted it from the brain of a magic-wielding panther… It’s… Look out! Behind you!”

Bender suddenly pointed behind Abyss, his voice filled with feigned terror.

Abyss, unconcerned about a potential attack, turned around. Several grotesque, slime-covered monsters stood there, their gazes fixed on him.

They were vaguely humanoid, their proportions distorted, their forms hideous. Their mouths were filled with sharp teeth, yellow pus dripping from their fangs.

“Wh-what are those?!” Bender asked, his voice trembling.

“Those are your pathetic little tricks,” Abyss said, turning back to Bender, a smile playing on his lips. “You used an illusion on me, didn’t you?”

Bender’s feigned fear vanished, replaced by despair.

Snap!

Abyss snapped his fingers, and the illusion dispelled. He looked behind him again. The monsters were gone, replaced by his three followers, Maggie, and Baggs, who was now perched on Maggie’s shoulder.

“So that’s how you killed your companions. You used illusions to trick them, creating some kind of distraction, then lured them away to their deaths,” Abyss said, nodding. “That crystal granted you some interesting abilities. Too bad you encountered me.”

Abyss had faced and defeated a god of illusions. Such tricks were child’s play to him. And Bender’s magic-induced illusions were even less of a threat.

“Please… Spare me…” Bender pleaded, his last resort having failed, his voice now filled with genuine fear. “I was blinded by greed. I wanted that crystal for myself. And I had a disagreement with my companions. So I… I killed them… Please, let me go… I won’t do it again…”

Bender was lying. Abyss could sense it. His actions had been premeditated.

Abyss, his disgust evident, chanted a spell, then flicked a small spark of light towards Bender, who collapsed, unconscious before he could react.

Abyss stood up, turning to the others. “I’ve altered his mind. He’ll spend the rest of his life atoning for his sins.”

“There might be another crystal in his brain,” Rebecca said, pointing at the unconscious Bender. “Any ideas? Should we extract it?”

“Good point,” Abyss said, chanting another spell, then placing his hand on Bender’s chest.

A translucent flame flickered in his palm, and Bender coughed, his body convulsing briefly, then becoming still.

“I’ve sealed his magic core. Unless a Supreme Mage intervenes, he won’t be using magic again,” Abyss said, nodding.

“I’d like to study this crystal,” Rebecca said, extending her hand towards the pouch Abyss was holding. “It seems interesting.”