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

Chapter 50: The Unreliable Fortune Teller

Givia hadn’t planned to come to the Eastern Empire personally. Acquiring supplies could be delegated to trusted subordinates. It was common sense. But a single sentence from a fortune teller had compelled her to embark on this long and arduous journey.

“Meeting Lannis Consten will cure you of your nightmares.” The statement had seemed dubious, like the ramblings of a charlatan, but it had become Givia’s last hope.

Tormented by nightmares, she had journeyed to the distant Eastern Empire, witnessing the chaos unfolding in Lavoisier City. And now, thanks to Abyss, she finally met the person she had been seeking.

Lannis, dressed in comfortable travel clothes, sat across from Givia. Having been informed that she was meeting a princess, Lannis had refrained from smoking, even consuming a strange potion that caused a small explosion in her mouth to eliminate the lingering tobacco smell. She had also attempted to tame her messy hair, with limited success.

“You must be Miss Lannis Consten. It’s a pleasure to meet you. I won’t hide my identity. I am Givia, Princess of the Ossi Kingdom,” Givia said, smiling, extending her hand.

Lannis chuckled, shaking Givia’s hand. She wasn’t familiar with formal etiquette.

“Abyss told me you’re leaving the city soon. I apologize for requesting this meeting at such short notice. I need your help. I have some questions for you,” Givia said, getting straight to the point. She didn’t want to waste anyone’s time.

Lannis, seemingly appreciating her directness, grinned. “Princess Givia, ask away. I’m quite experienced in alchemy.”

“I’m not sure if my request is related to alchemy,” Givia said, smiling apologetically. “First, I’d like to ask, do you know anything about the Lord of Nightmares?”

Lannis was stumped. She looked at the ceiling, racking her brain, then shook her head. “The Lord of Nightmares? Never heard of him. Is he a famous mercenary? Who would choose such a ridiculous name?”

“Hmm… It seems you’re not familiar with this Outer God,” Givia said, her lips pursed, her voice laced with disappointment. “To be honest, I’ve been tormented by the Lord of Nightmares for a long time. You must be aware of the civil war in the Ossi Kingdom. My brother, Prince Kevin, drove me from the palace. After my exile, he somehow managed to enlist the help of an Outer God called the Lord of Nightmares, who has been plaguing me with the same nightmare every night. I’ve been on the verge of a mental breakdown. A fortune teller once told me that meeting you would cure me of these nightmares.”

“Well… You’ve come to the wrong person. I know nothing about Outer Gods. And my expertise in alchemy is focused on explosive and unstable compounds, not calming remedies,” Lannis said, gesturing towards herself apologetically. “As you can see, Princess, I’m always in a state of manic excitement. How could I possibly help someone escape their nightmares?”

Givia nodded, her disappointment evident. “So you have no solution for my nightmares. Was that fortune teller lying…?”

Lannis had little respect for fortune tellers, but she knew her dear friend Rebecca was fascinated by such mystical things, so she refrained from commenting.

She tried to recall any knowledge about nightmares, but nothing came to mind. She had never conducted any research or possessed any unusual insights in that area. As for Outer Gods, the term was unfamiliar to her. Most people on the continent had never even heard of them. Lannis only knew about them thanks to her conversations with Abyss.

“I apologize for bothering you with these trivial matters, Miss Lannis,” Givia said after a moment of silence, sighing softly. She stood up, forcing a smile. “I won’t take up any more of your time. Please continue your journey. Thank you for your time. As a token of gratitude, I’d like to offer you a fine horse from the Ossi Kingdom. It might be useful for your travels.”

“Oh, thank you. But I’m truly sorry I couldn’t be of any help,” Lannis said, jumping off her chair.

“It’s my fault for believing a fortune teller. Who can truly see the future?” Givia said, chuckling wryly.

Her hopes, pinned on this meeting, had been dashed. She bid Lannis farewell, her heart heavy with disappointment. Santos, her loyal general, escorted her back to the Black Hats’ base. Abyss and his companions, meanwhile, left the base, accompanying Lannis as she prepared to embark on her retirement journey.

Lannis, feeling nostalgic, took a detour to visit Rebecca’s former home.

She observed the alchemists entering and exiting the house, now a laboratory, and nodded with satisfaction. It was now under the Emperor’s protection, ensuring its preservation. If she ever returned to Lavoisier City, this familiar building would still be here.

“Sigh, we just reunited, and I have to leave,” Lannis said, looking at Rebecca, her voice laced with regret. “I’ve given you my address. Come visit me when you have time.”

“You’ve dedicated forty years of your life to me. It’s time for you to live for yourself,” Rebecca said, crouching down and hugging Lannis. “Thank you for waiting all these years, Lannis. I’ll visit you soon. I promise.”

“That’s all I wanted to hear,” Lannis said, hugging Rebecca tightly before releasing her. She then turned to the others. “Abyss, you must make Rebecca happy. And come visit me sometime. Although we haven’t known each other for long, I’ve grown fond of you. And you two girls, I don’t know you well, but you’ve chosen the right person to follow. Keep an eye on him.”

“I’m planning to buy some land in the Elven Kingdoms and build a grand graveyard, my future home. It’s not far from your place. We’ll visit you together,” Abyss said, grinning.

“Ha! You necromancers!” Lannis said, chuckling, then turned to Titus, who had accompanied them. “Titus, I’m leaving. If I hear that Lavoisier City is suffering under your rule, I’ll be back. Remember that!”

Chapter 49: A Place for the Children

When Abyss and his companions arrived at the designated meeting spot, Lannis was already prepared to leave Lavoisier City, sitting on the curb, casually smoking a pipe.

Beside her sat another figure, also puffing away—Titus. They were enjoying each other’s company, their conversation punctuated by plumes of smoke. Lannis usually looked down on gangsters, but Titus seemed to have captured her interest. Their banter suggested a shared sense of humor, and the tobacco Titus was smoking seemed to be a gift from Lannis.

“Oh, look who’s here,” Titus said, spotting Abyss and his companions approaching. He stood up, his voice enthusiastic. “Mr. Abyss! My savior!”

“Hmph, you’re right on time,” Lannis said, standing up and joining Rebecca. “Rebecca, I’ve packed my belongings. The larger items have been sent ahead with a caravan. I’m ready for my new life in the Western Empire, dedicated to research, far away from these messy gang affairs.”

“You won’t need to worry about them anymore, Miss Lannis. Do you know why? Because peace and prosperity are coming to Lavoisier City! Haha!” Titus exclaimed, his laughter booming. The nearby pedestrians, recognizing him, quickly moved away.

“It sounds like Mr. Eugene had a rough night,” Abyss said, his voice laced with amusement.

“Not just rough, but utterly miserable,” Titus replied, grinning. “I didn’t kill him. He only suffered minor injuries. He’ll be back on his feet in a month or two. I simply took him on a tour of his factories, capturing them one by one, with him as my guest of honor. The Goat Eyes gang members are surprisingly loyal. With a knife to their leader’s throat, they were quite obedient. I took over all his potion factories with minimal effort. It was beautiful… Oh, by the way, I have a favor to ask, Mr. Abyss.”

Abyss considered his request, then replied, “Tell me what you need. I’ll help if I can.”

“I raided six factories yesterday. We rescued four hundred children. A few of the older ones are willing to work for me, earning a proper wage, but most of them want to leave Lavoisier City. It wouldn’t be right for a brutal gang like ours to raise them. Since you’re sending those children from the factory we raided to a safe place, could you perhaps… expand the scope and take these children as well?”

“I can take anyone who wants to leave… But if it’s a large group, I’ll need your gang to provide transportation, a caravan to take them to a designated location,” Abyss said, readily agreeing. “And don’t worry, I’m not a child trafficker. They’ll be going to a friend’s house. He’s wealthy and can provide them with a good life.”

“I would never suspect you of such a thing, Mr. Abyss. You’re joking, right?” Titus said, chuckling. “No problem, I’ll hire a professional caravan, send a few trustworthy men, and hire some skilled mercenaries to escort them.”

Abyss nodded. “I’ll give you the address later. I’ll also contact my friend. Your men just need to mention my name.”

“No problem, no problem,” Titus said, eager to please. “I’ll handle everything. I’m sure your friend will provide them with a bright future.”

Leona, overhearing their conversation, tugged at Abyss’s sleeve, her voice a whisper. “ABC, where are you sending those children? I didn’t know you had such a friend. Is he reliable? Is he even alive? You’re not sending them to a graveyard, are you?”

Abyss bent down, listened to her question, then patted her head reassuringly. “Of course not. I wouldn’t send them to a graveyard. This friend was originally my master’s friend, a kind and trustworthy old mage. I initially considered sending them back to orphanages, but then I realized that’s where they came from. It wouldn’t be fair to send them back. So I thought of my master’s friend.”

“What does he do? He’s not a necromancer, is he? You’re not turning those children into necromancers, are you?” Leona asked, her voice filled with concern.

“A good necromancer must be trained from a young age, their beliefs instilled from the start. Otherwise, the necromancer’s creed is just empty words. They’re too old for that. I won’t turn them into necromancers,” Abyss said, shaking his head. “This old mage is a scholar, not affiliated with any specific school of magic. And he’s always wanted to be a teacher. But he never had enough students. Most parents prefer their children to learn practical skills at home instead of attending school. But this is a good opportunity. These children need a good education, and my friend is willing and able to provide it.”

“I see… That’s a good place for them,” Leona said, nodding thoughtfully.

Flora, who had also overheard their conversation, smiled. Promoting education had been her lifelong goal. She was happy to hear that Abyss was giving these children, who would have become cheap laborers, a chance at a better future.

“And… My friend actually asked me to find him some students… He told me that if I sent a large group of children to his house to study, he would give me a surprise in a few years. I’m quite curious,” Abyss said, chuckling. “It sounds like something a sinister dark mage would say, right? But he’s trustworthy. My master always trusted him, and he never betrayed that trust.”

“That’s good. Although I haven’t met these children, as a knight, I feel a sense of responsibility towards them,” Leona said, puffing out her chest, enjoying the feeling of Abyss stroking her head.

“Lannis, before you leave Lavoisier City, there’s someone I want you to meet. Would you mind accompanying me?” Abyss asked Lannis. “It won’t take long. She has some questions for you.”

“I figured you had something to ask of me, boy,” Lannis said, chuckling, exhaling a plume of smoke. “Lead the way, Titus. I’m guessing the person Abyss wants me to meet is with you, right?”

Chapter 48: Rest and Recuperation

The final scene was of the two heroines, after defeating a powerful, scimitar-wielding man, charging towards the monstrous creature.

The vision ended, and Leona’s perspective returned to the flickering stars. The two goddesses, still embracing, looked at her.

“That was the story of our Champions. Have you seen the value of our power, Master?”

“We are ready to bestow our power upon you, Master, whenever you need it, and to withdraw it when you no longer require it.”

“We only wish to survive, to end our endless journey.”

“Our world is gone. We have lost our purpose as gods. We are content to be your servants.”

Leona listened to their pleas, nodding slowly. They were right. With their world destroyed, their purpose as gods had vanished. According to Abyss, the gods of each world were created by the Creator God to manage and protect their respective realms. But when a world was destroyed, their purpose ceased to exist. Their only remaining goal was survival. This applied to both these otherworldly deities, who had somehow regained their memories, and the Outer Gods, who had forgotten their past. Their sole motivation was to continue existing.

Perhaps an Outer God like the Lord of Nightmares had other aspirations, but even those were based on the primal need to “consume.”

After careful consideration, Leona finally made her decision. She nodded at the two wandering goddesses. “Alright, teach me your language. But I might not use it.”

“We do not demand anything from you, Master. Just protect yourself.”

“We awakened through your connection. Without you, we will slumber once more, returning to our endless journey.”

“Our power is merely a tool for you, Master. We do not benefit directly from its use.”

“Since you have agreed to receive our knowledge, Master, we will teach you our language. Please listen carefully…”

…

Abyss lay in bed beside Leona, having helped her fall asleep. He relaxed, enjoying a night of peaceful slumber.

He woke up to a gentle nudge, a small hand pushing him awake.

“Stupid ABC! Wake up!” Leona’s voice, a mix of embarrassment and anger, reached his ears.

Abyss, his mind still foggy from a night of restful sleep, rubbed his eyes, looking at Leona, confused.

“What’s wrong, Leona?”

“How dare you ask!” Leona exclaimed, her cheeks flushed, her emerald eyes glaring at him. “Why… Why am I in your bed! What did you do to me last night while I was drunk! Tell me everything!”

“I didn’t do anything. We just held hands and slept,” Abyss said, sitting up and scratching his head, looking at Leona, who was wearing a bathrobe, her legs pressed together, her silver hair messy from sleeping with it wet.

“We just slept? What kind of sleeping? Adult sleeping or child sleeping?”

“I’m sixteen… So I guess it was child sleeping,” Abyss said, confused. “Why are you asking?”

“Hmph… I see…” Leona calmed down slightly, but her expression remained sullen. “I… I was drunk last night. I don’t remember anything. Don’t laugh if I said or did anything stupid…”

“It’s alright, I remember everything. I can tell you if you want,” Abyss said, gently combing her hair with his fingers.

“No! Don’t tell me! I’ll bite you if you do!”

“You’re already biting me,” Abyss said, pointing with his left hand to his right hand, three fingers of which were now in Leona’s mouth.

It was the morning Rebecca and Lannis had agreed to meet. They left their rooms, met up in the lobby, enjoyed a luxurious breakfast at the inn, then stepped outside, refreshed and revitalized, their clothes freshly laundered and dried by the inn’s staff.

“Ah, it’s been over forty years since I last ate a proper meal. It feels different,” Rebecca said, taking a deep breath of the cool, albeit slightly polluted, air. “I thought my stomach would be useless after forty years of inactivity, but it seems to be functioning perfectly. I didn’t even throw up—Abyss, I remember ordinary undead can’t eat normal food, right? Doesn’t it upset their stomachs?”

Abyss nodded. “Yes, it’s best for them to consume rotten flesh. It’s more suitable for their undead bodies. Ordinary food, with its spices and cooking methods, is difficult for their unique digestive systems to process. But you’re different. My necromancy is modified. You can eat anything. Your bodies won’t absorb the nutrients, but they’ll be converted into gas and expelled through your breath—and don’t worry, it’s odorless.”

“Even though we can’t absorb the nutrients, we can still enjoy the taste,” Flora said with a smile. She was content with her ability to savor various delicacies, a luxury she hadn’t enjoyed as a living Saint.

“If you want to absorb nutrients, I can get you some rotten flesh…”

“That won’t be necessary,” Rebecca said, cutting him off.

“Umm…” Leona, seeing that they were alone, raised her hand timidly. “I dreamed about something last night… I think you should hear this.”

This meek demeanor was unusual for the usually boisterous princess. They knew it must be something important. They stopped chatting and listened intently as Leona recounted her dream.

They were all surprised to learn that the Lord of Submergence had manifested as two goddesses in Leona’s dream. And she revealed the language they had taught her, the language to command their power.

Leona had initially intended to keep this a secret, aware of the power’s heavy price. But she had been preoccupied with these thoughts all morning, unable to even enjoy her breakfast. She had finally decided to trust her companions, sharing her experience with them.

Flora placed a hand on Leona’s shoulder, her voice gentle but firm. “The price of this power is too high for you. Don’t use it unless absolutely necessary.”

“I know,” Leona said, nodding solemnly.

“This method of accessing power… It gives me a rather bold idea,” Abyss said thoughtfully. “Leona, you must prioritize your safety. Don’t use this power recklessly. I’ll find a solution for you eventually.”

He patted Leona’s head, then turned to Rebecca.

Rebecca didn’t say anything, but her eyes narrowed, a mischievous smile playing on her lips, as if she understood Abyss’s unspoken thoughts.

Chapter 47: Powers and Restrictions from Otherworldly Gods

“What’s the price?”

Leona, despite her simple mind, wasn’t one to take advantage of a situation. If these two goddesses, possibly from another world, claimed there was a price for using their powers, she needed to know what it was.

“Our power will be transferred to you, Master, in a specific form, when you need it.”

“But we must abide by the rules governing the interaction between worlds. We cannot disrupt the balance of power.”

“Therefore, when you receive our power, Master, you must pay an equal price. Otherwise, the world’s balance will be disrupted, and all existing rules and order will be affected, leading to chaos.”

“The local deities will then intervene, attacking you, Master, and expelling us. We will no longer be able to remain in this world.”

“Our divine authority is over light and darkness.”

“Therefore, we can grant you, Master, the power to control light and shadow.”

“But as a price, when you manipulate darkness, light will inflict serious harm upon you.”

“Conversely, when you command light, shadows will significantly weaken your power.”

“After manipulating darkness, you will temporarily lose your emotions. Repeated use will result in the loss of certain emotions.”

“After commanding light, you will temporarily lose your memories. Repeated use will result in the loss of certain memories.”

“The longer you use our power, the more severe the consequences. Temporary might become permanent.”

“But we will warn you before it’s too late.”

The two goddesses patiently explained the price of their power. Leona listened, her brow furrowed in thought.

To maintain the balance of this world and avoid being expelled by the local deities, their power came with severe restrictions. And even after relinquishing their power, she would have to pay a price.

For ordinary people, temporarily losing emotions or memories might not seem like a big deal, but these were things Leona cherished.

Without emotions, how could she feel the warmth and affection of her trusted companions? Would she do something she would regret later?

Without memories, how could she recall the happy moments, the experiences that shaped her, that brought her joy?

Leona might enjoy spending money, but she wasn’t materialistic. If she were, her status as the world’s strongest warrior, a princess of the Empire, would have allowed her to indulge in any extravagance. She could rob, demand tribute, do as she pleased. What she truly craved was something most people took for granted: love and connection.

What was the point of her existence without emotions and memories? She would rather return to her cold grave.

“Master, do you need our power?”

“If you agree, we will teach you the language to command us.”

Leona hesitated. “Since your power comes with such a heavy price, show me what it can do.”

“Of course, Master.”

“We will show you the experiences of mortals who once wielded our power—our Champions.”

The two goddesses obeyed without question, their respect for Leona unwavering, despite her mortal status.

Their current state resembled the consequences of excessive power usage—emotionless, their memories fragmented. Leona suspected they had been more vibrant before, their forced journey between worlds somehow damaging them. Unless they were deceiving her. But she couldn’t fathom their motive for doing so. Abyss had told her that the Nine Gods of Hai-Teweru valued balance above all else. They wouldn’t be welcoming towards these foreign deities. The best way for these two wandering goddesses to survive in this world was to serve Leona and Abyss.

Their forms faded, and the surrounding stars brightened. Leona didn’t feel herself moving, but when she regained her focus, she found herself observing a vibrant planet from a unique perspective.

She could see everything on this lush planet, unobstructed, the concepts of “distance” and “perspective” irrelevant. The planet was teeming with inhabitants, their faces resembling those of the two goddesses. Like Hai-Teweru, this planet had developed a thriving civilization, its technology even more advanced. Towering structures, hundreds of meters tall, dominated the landscape. Cities bustled with activity, neon lights illuminating the night, commerce flourishing. Monarchies had been abolished, and the world was ruled by powerful corporations, their leaders wealthy, intelligent, but also cunning and ruthless.

The two goddesses guided her attention to two young women.

“The fair-skinned girl is the Champion of Darkness.”

“The dark-skinned girl is the Champion of Light.”

“They were our only two followers in Bystine. They received our divine pronouncements directly, ensuring the world’s balance wasn’t disrupted by the ever-growing desires of mortals.”

“They performed their duties admirably, but they couldn’t stop the Lord of Bullying’s invasion. We were bound by the Creator God’s restrictions, unable to intervene directly. We witnessed their sacrifices, but they couldn’t turn the tide.”

As the goddesses spoke, the two girls’ stories unfolded before Leona’s eyes. They were both born into poverty, their hearts filled with a yearning for justice. Through a series of events, they had caught the attention of the goddesses, proving their worth and receiving powers to change the world. The Champion of Darkness operated at night, the Champion of Light during the day. They channeled divine power through prayer, hunting down criminals, thwarting evil schemes, dismantling corrupt organizations.

The Champion of Darkness, a wraithlike figure, moved through the shadows, emerging from any darkened corner, phasing through walls, reaching her targets with ease. Any attack directed at her was reflected back at the attacker by the power of darkness. She used her divine power to break her enemies’ minds, driving them mad, rendering them incapable of causing further harm.

The Champion of Light, a radiant being, walked boldly under the sun, her form transforming into a beam of light, traveling to any place illuminated by sunlight or artificial light. She was immune to all attacks. Even if her enemies tried to weaken her by reducing the light, she was always one step ahead. Her holy radiance forced even the most hardened criminals to repent, spending the rest of their lives seeking redemption.

As Leona watched these two heroines, a monstrous figure appeared in the distance.

It was a colossal creature, its body composed of countless teeth. People prostrated themselves before it, sacrificing living beings, burning them in giant furnaces. With each sacrifice, the monster grew larger…

Chapter 46: Wandering Gods

“Leona Crepeus,” a gentle female voice echoed through Leona’s mind.

She stood in a vast expanse of darkness, two naked figures embracing tightly before her, surrounded by flickering stars, like dying candles in the wind. She recognized this place. This was where she had battled the Lord of Submergence, where Abyss had used his soul to create a giant potato chip, binding the Outer God to her will.

After the Lord of Submergence pledged his allegiance, she had indeed felt a surge in power. Whenever she used her Dou Qi, streaks of lightning, imbued with the Lord of Submergence’s power, crackled around her. It didn’t directly enhance her strength, but it amplified her destructive capabilities, and it was controllable, making it incredibly useful. This divine power had also aided Abyss, proving crucial in their escape from the Lord of Nightmares’ dream realm.

Just when she thought the Lord of Submergence had fulfilled his purpose, she found herself back in this strange space.

But the massive black cloud that had once represented the Outer God was gone. In its place stood the two embracing figures.

She had seen them once before, a fleeting vision as she was escaping the dream realm.

They weren’t hallucinations after all.

“Leona Crepeus,” another gentle female voice echoed, this one different from the first, likely belonging to the other figure.

“Who are you? If you have something to say, come closer. Don’t hide in the shadows. I won’t bite,” Leona said, frowning.

The two figures remained silent for a moment, then vanished, reappearing before her. Leona finally saw their faces. They were beautiful women, their long golden hair cascading down their naked bodies. Their facial features resembled those of elves, but they lacked the pointed ears. One had pure white eyes, the other pure black, their pupils invisible. Their appearance was unusual, but Leona didn’t find them frightening. They were strangely beautiful.

“I am Kalmishura, the Goddess of Darkness,” the woman with black eyes said.

“I am Salbenite, the Goddess of Light,” the woman with white eyes said.

“I don’t recall seeing you two among the Nine Gods. Where did you come from?” Leona asked, her voice suspicious.

The Nine Gods worshipped in Hai-Teweru were: the God of Order and Judgment, the God of Life and Harvest, the God of Love and Beauty, the God of Light and Shadow, the God of Nature, the God of Magic, the God of Conquest, the God of Death and Slaughter, and the God of Storms. Clearly, light and darkness weren’t governed by separate deities. If these two women were telling the truth, they didn’t belong to this world’s pantheon.

Could the Lord of Submergence have split into two deities? If given enough sustenance, could he split again? Then Abyss could create a Lord of Submergence farm, eliminating the need to deal with other troublesome Outer Gods.

Spending time with Abyss had influenced her thinking.

“We come from a world called Bystine.”

“A world destroyed by the invasion of an Outer God.”

Each goddess spoke half of the sentence, Kalmishura first, then Salbenite, their voices synchronized, their minds seemingly linked.

Leona, her curiosity piqued, asked, “Your world was destroyed by an Outer God? What’s your connection to the Lord of Submergence? Did he destroy your world? Or… are you the Lord of Submergence?”

“The Lord of Submergence… We don’t know him. His name isn’t in our memories.”

“The Outer God who destroyed our world was called Ganakreb, known to his followers as the ‘Lord of Bullying’.”

“The death of the last living being marked the end of our world. Gods cannot survive in a world devoid of life.”

“Our world was gone, so we left.”

“We drifted for a long time, our minds blank.”

“We finally awakened, and we saw you.”

“Leona.”

“Crepeus.”

Their words were fragmented, but Leona pieced together their story. Their world had been destroyed by an Outer God called the Lord of Bullying. They couldn’t remain in a lifeless world, so they had left, drifting through the void until they arrived here. And they didn’t know the Lord of Submergence.

A possibility occurred to Leona—perhaps these two goddesses were the Lord of Submergence, but they had lost their memories during their transformation, some force turning them into a fear-driven Outer God.

“Have you considered why you encountered me after drifting here?” she asked, wanting to confirm her suspicions. “Did you become something else while you were unconscious?”

The two goddesses looked at her, their expressions unreadable. After a moment of silence, Kalmishura spoke.

“We were the guardian deities of Bystine, tasked by the Creator God to protect our world.”

“But we failed, and we had to leave.”

“We didn’t know what would happen when we left our world. We slept, and we awakened.”

“We are here, bound by a force beyond our control.”

“A voice within us tells us that you are our master.”

“Even though you’re mortal, we are your servants.”

Leona’s suspicions were confirmed. These two deities, like the Nine Gods, had been peacefully guarding their world until an Outer God, the Lord of Bullying, arrived and destroyed everything. Unable to remain in their lifeless world, they had left, undergoing a transformation, merging into a single entity, a new Outer God: the Lord of Submergence, who had then invaded Hai-Teweru.

So, this was how Outer Gods were born? From the remnants of destroyed worlds, their native deities transformed? And if that was the case… Wouldn’t their numbers keep increasing?

So Hai-Teweru wasn’t the only world facing this threat. There were other worlds out there? What was the Creator God doing?

“Master, we will teach you the language to command us.”

“Using this language, you and those closely connected to you can access our power.”

“But using our power comes with a price. If the cost isn’t paid, the balance of the world will be disrupted.”

“Will you accept our teachings, Master?”

Chapter 45: Words Spoken in Drunkenness

Abyss smiled at Leona’s childish demeanor. He bent down and stroked her damp silver hair, a pleasant floral scent wafting from it.

“What’s wrong? Is something bothering you about sharing a room with Flora and Rebecca?”

“I told you, I want to sleep. I can’t sleep without your help, can I? Do I need to explain this to you?!” Leona said, marching into Abyss’s room, her slippers slapping against the floor.

Abyss didn’t object, closing the door behind her. A typical sixteen-year-old boy might have hesitated, feeling shy or embarrassed, but fortunately, Abyss was completely oblivious to such social cues.

Leona walked straight to the bed, tossed her pillow onto it, then jumped onto the mattress, kicking off her slippers, and sprawling out. She was so light that the bed barely creaked.

“Of course I’ll stay with you. Come, close your eyes, and I’ll use the necromantic link to help you sleep,” Abyss said, smiling.

“Hmm…” Leona closed her eyes obediently. Her cheeks were still flushed, her voice soft and languid.

Abyss was surprised by the potency of the potion she had consumed at the bar. He lay down beside her, gently taking her warm hand in his.

Leona’s body stiffened for a moment when he touched her, then relaxed again.

“No rigor mortis this time, Leona. Good job,” Abyss said, praising her.

“Abyss, I’m sorry…”

But instead of her usual indignant response, Leona’s voice was soft, almost a whisper.

Abyss, about to use the necromantic link to calm her mind, was surprised by her sudden apology. “Hmm? What’s wrong, Leona? Have you caught Flora’s politeness bug? Why are you apologizing?”

“Abyss, I feel like I’ve been treating you poorly… But why don’t you ever get angry?” she continued.

Even Abyss, oblivious as he was, could tell she was being serious. He thought for a moment, then replied, “I’m not angry because I don’t think you’ve treated me poorly. Remember that battle with Dallan? You and Flora worked together perfectly to defeat him. You might talk tough, but you’ve always been on my side. I don’t want followers who blindly agree with me and praise me. I want those who trust me completely, who are willing to stand by my side—and you are one of them, aren’t you?”

“Hmm… Will you… Will you neglect Flora and me after you fall in love with Rebecca?” Leona asked, changing the subject.

“Oh, you’re talking about Rebecca’s attempts to win my favor. Well, I’ve never been in love before. Honestly, I’m not interested in romance right now. I have a more exciting goal in mind—defeating the Creator God. I probably won’t consider such things until then. But if, and I mean if, Rebecca truly captivates me, I promise I won’t neglect you and Flora. Even if you’re not my lovers, you’re my followers, which means you’re family.” Abyss glanced at Leona, who opened her eyes, their gazes meeting.

“…We’re family now?”

“Of course. We might not be blood-related, but you three are my family,” Abyss said patiently, humoring the seemingly intoxicated Leona.

“What kind of family member am I to you? A sister?”

“Well… How should I put it? Closer than a sister,” Abyss said, after a moment of consideration, his voice sincere, devoid of any deception.

“Closer than a sister? Do you mean… a wi… wife?”

“No, even closer than a wife. Our bond is far stronger than any marriage,” Abyss said, chuckling.

Leona fell silent, closing her eyes tightly. Abyss, using his darkvision, enhanced by the faint neon light filtering through the window, noticed her flushed cheeks. He wondered if the potion had delayed side effects.

“I… I’m going to sleep now. Use your magic to help me relax,” Leona said after a long silence, finally issuing her command to Abyss, who, oblivious to his unintentionally flirtatious words, obediently channeled his magic, casting a calming spell on her.

Was Leona truly drunk? She couldn’t tell. She had simply let her thoughts wander after consuming the potion-infused drink. Rebecca’s arrival had triggered a sense of insecurity. She liked Rebecca, but she feared that Abyss and Rebecca might fall in love, leaving her and Flora neglected and forgotten. Rebecca was beautiful, intelligent, and understanding. Few men could resist her advances, and Abyss, despite being a powerful necromancer, was still a sixteen-year-old boy.

She didn’t understand this complex emotion swirling within her. Was it love? She had never fallen in love before, so she didn’t know. But Abyss had become more important to her than anyone else.

She had once been a powerful warrior, a princess of the Empire, seemingly blessed with everything. But deep down, she knew that her status as an illegitimate child had made her an outcast among the nobility. Her strength was seen as a tool, a pawn to be manipulated. Everyone treated her as a means to an end. Even the Emperor only showed her occasional concern out of a sense of paternal duty. Her mother, fearing trouble, had severed all contact with her. She received no love, the kind of love a child needed to thrive, only attention through her tantrums and her mischievous antics.

Surrounded by indifference and disdain, Leona had grown up, developing a rebellious and demanding personality.

She had died at a young age, betrayed by the Empress, a disappointment to her father, her life cut short before it could truly blossom.

Abyss was the first person who treated her as a valued companion, who trusted her with his secrets, who gave her everything she had ever desired.

She was afraid, more afraid than Flora, of losing him, of returning to a life of loneliness.

But now, with his reassurance and his explanations, her anxieties subsided.

Her consciousness drifted towards darkness. She felt a wave of drowsiness, finally succumbing to sleep.

And within that darkness, two figures, embracing tightly, appeared before her…

Chapter 44: The Next Move Against the Lord of Nightmares

The largest inn in Lavoisier City stood in the heart of the bustling commercial district. It was a five-story building, its massive potion-powered neon sign illuminating the street, its name visible from afar: “The Tawny Owl Inn.” Well-dressed merchants, their wealth evident in their attire, occasionally entered and exited the building. The glowing windows suggested a thriving business, unaffected by the recent gang war.

Although it couldn’t compare to the luxurious inns of Golden Griffin City, the inn’s modern architecture and the captivating neon lights of Lavoisier City’s nightscape gave it a unique charm.

Rebecca, despite having lived in Lavoisier City, had never visited this inn. She was excited to finally experience such luxurious accommodations. Leona, no longer intoxicated, was curled up in Abyss’s arms, quiet and docile, like a kitten. Flora was concerned about potential gang activity, especially since Eugene, the Goat Eyes Gang’s leader, had been captured by Titus and was likely experiencing his “tender care.” The Goat Eyes gang members, leaderless, might not be as disciplined.

Upon inquiring at the reception desk, they learned that the inn was now owned by Emperor Camper. After Lannis had driven the city’s previous gangs to ruin, the inn had been abandoned. Ten years ago, Emperor Camper had purchased the building, using his personal funds. It was now Lavoisier City’s designated accommodation for distinguished guests. Of course, anyone with enough money and a sense of decorum, aware that they were on the Emperor’s turf, was welcome to stay. The city’s public security issues limited tourism, but the merchants, enriched by the potion trade, often stayed here, contributing a significant portion of the Emperor’s personal income.

“We need two rooms. The three of us girls will share one, and he’ll have a separate room,” Rebecca said to the receptionist. “Luxury suites, please. Money is no object.”

The receptionist, sensing their affluence, quickly processed their request. Two adjacent luxury suites were assigned to them, costing almost three hundred imperial coins per night, a significant sum for ordinary people, but a mere trifle for their now-wealthy group.

“I thought you would request to share a room with Abyss. He would have agreed,” Flora whispered to Rebecca as they walked towards their rooms, her voice filled with amusement. “Although nothing would happen, wouldn’t that be the perfect opportunity to get closer to him?”

“Honestly, I did consider it, but I decided against it. There’s plenty of time,” Rebecca said, shaking her head slightly. “You noticed too, right? Someone else needs this night more than I do.”

They exchanged knowing glances, both looking at Leona, who was clinging to Abyss, then smiled.

…

The luxury suite was incredibly comfortable. Abyss, guided by a bellhop, entered his room, removed his clothes, and enjoyed a long, hot bath in the ensuite bathroom. Eastern Empire customs differed from those of the Western Empire. Easterners preferred soaking in warm water, unlike the hardy Westerners, who enjoyed alternating between scalding hot and icy cold baths.

He even summoned two skeletons to scrub his back, relaxing his muscles. He then dried himself and lay down on the bed.

The past few days had been eventful. Even Abyss, with his boundless energy, felt a wave of fatigue. He stretched out on the massive, soft bed, his limbs spread wide, and began contemplating his next move against the Lord of Nightmares.

That enigmatic entity seemed to hold a grudge against him. In the eyes of that world-traveling gourmet, Abyss’s fear was a delicacy, a temptation he couldn’t resist. Although he had retreated temporarily after witnessing Abyss’s unexpected abilities, he hadn’t specified a timeline for his return. His intelligence far surpassed that of the simple-minded Lord of Submergence. Abyss’s previous tactics, suitable for deceiving a child, wouldn’t work on this cunning Outer God.

What to do… Abyss considered several plans, but none seemed foolproof. He needed more information. His goal wasn’t simply to survive the Lord of Nightmares’ attacks, but to capture him, to turn him into an ally.

He had two priorities: to continue acquiring divine power, both from the Creator God and the Lord of Submergence, and to accompany Givia back to the Ossi Kingdom, to observe Prince Kevin and understand what made him so valuable that a proud Outer God would assist him.

Abyss yawned. He was still human. He had considered turning himself into an undead, but there was no precedent for a necromancer resurrecting themselves. The necromantic link couldn’t connect to oneself. And asking someone else to resurrect him? That was absurd. He would never allow anyone to control him, not even a god, let alone a mortal.

He rolled over on the bed, used a simple spell to extinguish the potion lamp, and prepared to sleep.

But as he closed his eyes, he heard soft footsteps approaching his door. He opened his eyes.

A gentle knock, irregular but soft, as if from a small hand, startled him.

He instantly knew who it was. He got out of bed, slipped on the provided slippers, and opened the door.

A small figure, her long silver hair cascading down her shoulders, still slightly damp, stood in the hallway, clutching a pillow. It was Leona, her cheeks flushed.

“A…BC, this princess needs to sleep. Help me fall asleep!” she said, her voice slurred but soft, like a kitten’s meow.

Chapter 43: Leona Gets Drunk

“A…BC! Come here! Come drink and have fun with this princess!”

As Abyss and Rebecca approached Leona, who was sitting at a table, her cheerful voice reached them.

Her cheeks were flushed, her smile brighter than ever, her demeanor incredibly cute. Abyss was surprised. Was Leona drunk? Undead shouldn’t be able to get drunk.

“She ordered a potion-infused drink. The bartender said it simulates the feeling of intoxication, designed for those who want to experience drunkenness without harming their bodies,” Flora explained, watching Leona with a fond smile. “The bartender offered a challenge: drink three glasses without collapsing, and it’s free. Leona accepted the challenge, drank all three glasses, and now she’s like this.”

“Heehee… You’re here,” Leona said, holding an empty glass, her head resting on Flora’s shoulder, her eyes slightly unfocused, as she looked at Abyss and Rebecca. “Sit down, Flora anticipated you might want a drink, so she ordered one for each of you. Drink up, drink up… Hic… I can handle another barrel!”

Abyss and Rebecca sat down, and Flora placed two glasses of drink before them.

“Thank you, Flora. You’re so thoughtful,” Rebecca said, taking her glass and sniffing its aroma. “This is my favorite drink! What a coincidence!”

“I guessed based on your personality. I’m glad you like it,” Flora said, smiling gently.

Abyss took a sip. It was a drink he had enjoyed at the dwarf’s tavern, his favorite during his drinking session with Leona. He hadn’t mentioned his preference to anyone, but Flora had noticed. As always, she was incredibly attentive, making him feel comfortable and cared for.

“I love this drink. Thank you for remembering, Flora,” Abyss said gratefully. Flora blushed slightly, nodding silently.

“What are you talking about… Come drink with this princess!” Leona exclaimed, clinking her empty glass against theirs. “Cheers… Hic!”

“It seems you had a productive meeting with the alchemists. You both seem to be in good spirits,” Flora said, observing Rebecca, her own glass filled with a mild, low-alcohol drink.

“Yes, I gained many new insights from our conversations, but I’m not ready to work yet. Let’s relax and enjoy our drinks. We should find a place to rest. I’ll take you to the most comfortable inn in the city. It used to be owned by a gang, but they’re gone now. I wonder who’s running it,” Rebecca said, reaching out and stroking Leona’s silver hair. Leona, now intoxicated, giggled, her face beaming with happiness.

“Are you and Leona having fun?” Abyss asked. “Well, it’s obvious Leona is enjoying herself.”

“We’re both relaxed. We were constantly on the move with Givia. It wasn’t tiring, but it was hectic. It’s nice to have a change of pace,” Flora replied. “This bar has a pleasant atmosphere. The alchemists are mostly polite. No one is being loud or disruptive. I enjoy this peaceful ambiance. As for the drinks… Well, I can’t get drunk, so it’s just like a regular beverage for me.”

“I’m glad you’re both happy. Let’s consider these drinks a celebration for Rebecca’s return from the other world,” Abyss said, raising his glass. “Cheers!”

They clinked their glasses, the sound of glass meeting glass echoing through the bar.

…

Leona was conflicted. The potion had induced a sense of relaxation, making her feel drowsy, but her undead body couldn’t fall asleep. She clung to Flora, her voice whiny and affectionate, acting like a spoiled child.

Abyss, ever the gentleman, couldn’t let Flora, seemingly delicate, carry her. He offered to carry Leona himself.

Leona settled down in his arms, her face buried in his chest, quiet and content, although not asleep.

“Alright, it’s time to leave,” Rebecca said, taking Flora’s hand and leading her towards the exit. She sighed, relieved. “I’m not really one for entertainment. I usually spend most of my time in my laboratory, surrounded by potions. I was worried you wouldn’t enjoy this place, but seeing you having fun makes me happy.”

“I’m not much of a party person either. And Leona is as simple as a child. Abyss is probably the most fun-loving among us,” Flora said, chuckling. “He’s always full of creative ideas.”

“Thank you,” Abyss said, his voice tinged with pride. “Well, I mastered all the necessary magic a long time ago. I have nothing else to do but dig up graves and find ways to make life more interesting.”

“Oh, right, you mentioned that crazy plan of yours—defeating the Creator God,” Rebecca said, lowering her voice. “Tell me all about it when we get to the inn! I’m curious about your plans, and everything you’ve done so far. Tonight is the perfect opportunity!”

“Of course, our adventures are as fascinating as a Shadow Demon’s brain,” Abyss said, winking at her. “I won’t disappoint you.”

…

They left the Alchemy Club, their laughter fading into the night.

The doorman, watching them disappear, smiled, patting his pocket.

“Well, I thought today would be an ordinary day, but I received a generous tip. I’ll treat myself to a drink at the tavern after work,” he said, his legs crossed, one foot tapping rhythmically. “But those four were strange. Why were they talking to the air when they arrived? And they paid for five people, even though there were only four of them… Tsk, I shouldn’t think about it. It’s a bit creepy…”

He glanced around nervously, then returned to his duties.

Chapter 42: Whose Future Will It Be?

After resolving the issue of the Divine Grace-storing potion, the alchemists moved on to other topics. Their conversations, overheard by Abyss and Rebecca, revealed the dangerous nature of their research, the kind that could easily attract the Church’s attention. The Divine Grace-storing potion, although groundbreaking, was no different from other potions in its current state, unrealizable and potentially dangerous.

Within half an hour, these renowned alchemists had decided to shelve a transformation potion that could permanently turn someone into a goblin and a hallucinogenic potion that induced perpetual euphoria. Many of them were here seeking inspiration and sharing ideas. Rebecca, mingling among them, offered insightful suggestions, her casual remarks sparking breakthroughs.

Impressed by her alchemical expertise, the alchemists invited her to become a regular attendee. If she had been alone, she might have readily agreed. But considering her upcoming adventures with Abyss, she politely declined, promising to visit whenever she had the opportunity.

“It’s a shame you can’t come here more often. We often gather here to chat, but these large meetings, with everyone present, only happen once a month. If you decide to visit again, remember to come on this day of the month. You’re always welcome,” Horst said sincerely.

“I thought you met every day,” Rebecca said, surprised. The student who had brought them here had claimed the alchemists met daily.

“We wish we could. These meetings allow us to share our discoveries and gain new insights, but we’re all busy people. It’s not easy for everyone to find time to gather here once a month,” the elf alchemist said. “But I have a question, Ray. Who invited you here? You don’t seem to know anyone in this room.”

The student had specifically asked them not to reveal her involvement. Rebecca shook her head, smiling. “I can’t say, but you can trust me. I’m just an ordinary alchemist who loves this field. I won’t interfere with your work or cause any trouble—I guarantee it. If you need reassurance, I can swear an oath to the Nine Gods.”

“Well… An oath isn’t necessary. We shouldn’t be so formal,” the old elf said, waving his hand dismissively. “Most of us are teachers at the academy, so we’re under the Emperor’s protection. Ordinary people can’t harm us. If you were truly malicious, you would be a spy seeking to steal our research. But clearly, your skills are on par with ours. You have no need for such underhanded tactics.”

Rebecca smiled and nodded. “Thank you for your trust.”

Her skills weren’t merely “on par” with theirs. She had simply chosen not to show off.

“Don’t mention it. Your mind is far more agile than ours. I’m sure many here have gained valuable insights from our discussion tonight. I’m curious about your background, but you clearly won’t tell me, so I won’t ask,” the old elf said, standing up. It seemed he was the most respected among them. “This concludes our meeting for tonight. It was a fruitful discussion, and I’m sure everyone is eager to return to their laboratories and test their new ideas. Let’s adjourn.”

The alchemists rose from their seats and headed towards the exit.

“Wow! That was incredibly insightful!” Rebecca said as they left the room, the other alchemists bidding them farewell with friendly smiles. “Honestly, if these gatherings had existed before, I might have invented countless fascinating potions!”

“I thought your inspiration was limitless,” Abyss said, chuckling.

“I do have a lot of ideas. My mind is far more active than most people’s. I even conduct alchemy experiments in my dreams. But not all ideas are good, so I need to discern between them. Working in isolation is foolish. It’s only by venturing out, exchanging ideas with others, and observing the world that true innovation can occur,” Rebecca said, her voice serious. “My approach is different from yours, isn’t it? You mages don’t need these brainstorming sessions.”

She was right. Mages didn’t engage in such collaborative efforts. Abyss wasn’t part of any mage circles, but his master had told him about their arrogance. High-ranking mages usually developed their spells in isolation, then proudly presented them to their peers, arguing with anyone who dared to criticize their work. They were obsessed with proving their superiority, their egos fragile. Mages were mostly solitary and proud individuals. Their gatherings were far less harmonious than those of alchemists, who genuinely enjoyed exploring the world of knowledge.

“I think your approach is admirable. Mages might be the dominant force in the world right now, but in the future, alchemy might achieve equal prominence,” Abyss said sincerely. “You alchemists possess a vibrancy that mages lack.”

“You’re the first mage to compliment me like that,” Rebecca said, leaning closer to him, her breath carrying a faint, pleasant scent. “Most mages look down on us alchemists, considering alchemy a mere footnote to magic.”

“I’m not like most mages,” Abyss replied, his voice firm.

“Heehee, that’s true,” Rebecca said, stepping back. “Alright, let’s check on Leona and Flora. They must be having fun. The Alchemy Club’s bar has many interesting drinks. Leona will love it.”

“Yes, let’s go,” Abyss said, nodding. “But where is the library? I’ve been on several floors, but I haven’t seen it yet. I’m actually quite interested in reading some books.”

“The books here are all about alchemy. What’s so interesting about that? I know everything. I can teach you,” Rebecca said, taking his hand. “Let’s go upstairs. I’m in the mood for a drink.”

Chapter 41: Rebecca’s Insights

The dwarf alchemist, Horst, readily agreed to Rebecca’s request, his voice booming with his characteristic boisterousness. “Ah, no problem! I’ve copied the entire formula from the stone tablet. I even have a translation if you need it. But first, tell me, what do you think about this potion that can store Divine Grace?”

Rebecca considered his question carefully, then replied, “I believe it has both advantages and disadvantages. The benefits are obvious. Divine power is far more potent than magic. I’m sure everyone here understands that. If we could store Divine Grace in potions like we do with magic, it would revolutionize alchemy.”

Horst, pleased with her answer, nodded, his eyes twinkling.

“But…” Rebecca continued, her voice taking on a more serious tone. “Are there only benefits? I don’t think so. If we blindly pursue this formula, gathering those rare ingredients and brewing this potion, we might unleash something dangerous, something we can’t control.”

Horst waved his hand dismissively. “That’s not a problem. We’re the most skilled alchemists on the continent. We have the influence and the resources to acquire a healing spell from a Church Divine Arts user without revealing our true intentions. No one has tried it before, but I’m sure, within the vast ranks of the Church, there are a few Divine Arts users who wouldn’t report everything to their superiors.”

The elderly woman beside him immediately objected. “They might be willing to keep quiet about minor transgressions for a small fee, but this potion is no small matter. I doubt any Divine Arts user would be foolish enough to keep a secret of this magnitude…”

“That’s not the issue,” Rebecca said. “The issue isn’t the Church, but the entity they serve—the Nine Gods.”

Horst and the elderly woman, about to resume their argument, stopped and turned to face her.

“We don’t know how the Nine Gods view this potion,” Rebecca said, her voice firm. “The Nine Gods worshipped by the people of this continent aren’t just figments of imagination, deities invented by primitive humans based on natural phenomena. They are real entities residing in the Divine Realm. We must understand that the Divine Arts used by the Church’s practitioners aren’t their own power, but a privilege bestowed upon them by the Nine Gods. We don’t know if this potion is considered acceptable or blasphemous in their eyes.”

The room fell silent. They had been focused on the potential benefits of this potion, debating the Church’s reaction, but no one had considered the Nine Gods.

Abyss, observing their discussion, understood their oversight. It wasn’t arrogance, but the fact that the Nine Gods rarely interfered in mortal affairs. They usually communicated through vague pronouncements, relying on the Church to interpret and enforce their will. This made the alchemists subconsciously dismiss the Nine Gods as a potential obstacle.

What was the Nine Gods’ stance on storing Divine Grace? Abyss didn’t know the answer, but he could make an educated guess.

These nine deities, detached from worldly desires, valued balance above all else. Why did Divine Arts require a physical sacrifice from the user, the more powerful the spell, the greater the cost? It was to maintain balance. The Nine Gods wouldn’t allow mortals to wield power beyond their station.

But if this potion were created, mortals could store Divine Grace in a bottle, and the physical toll from prayer could be healed… This could lead to a proliferation of potions containing divine power. Even if the Church intervened, there was no guarantee the Nine Gods would grant mortals a second chance.

Throughout history, the Nine Gods had never directly intervened to punish mortals for upsetting the balance. Abyss suspected they were bound by some rule that prevented them from interfering directly. Although he was curious about their methods, he wasn’t eager to test their limits.

He would have the opportunity to witness their power eventually. His current path, if he continued, would inevitably challenge their authority—and then, the Creator God himself.

Horst, his initial enthusiasm replaced by a thoughtful frown, sat back in his chair, stroking his bushy beard. The other alchemists also seemed to be pondering Rebecca’s words.

“Hmm… Ray, you’re more insightful than us,” Horst finally said, looking at her. “You’re right. We can’t just consider the Church’s reaction. We also need to consider the Nine Gods’ will. I’ve decided to abandon this research. We’ll keep this formula secret, and that tomb… I’ll have it destroyed.”

He glanced at the other alchemists. No one objected to his decision. Some even nodded in agreement.

“Before you do that, could I examine the formula? If you trust me, that is,” Rebecca said, smiling.

Although she had only just arrived, her brilliance and her insightful analysis had made her the center of attention. These seasoned alchemists might not believe an unknown outsider could surpass them, but they didn’t doubt her abilities. They agreed to let her examine the formula. After all, everyone in the room had already seen it.

Rebecca took the ancient inscription, studying it carefully, her eyes widening in admiration.

“My god… The ancients were truly remarkable… To think someone could conceive of such a thing in an era when alchemy relied solely on luck…”

Abyss leaned closer, examining the inscription. Besides the rare herbs and unusual animal organs, one phrase caught his attention: “An object imbued with Divine Grace.”

This phrase might have puzzled other alchemists, but Abyss instantly knew what could be used as an “object imbued with Divine Grace.”

He didn’t worship any deities, so he didn’t possess Divine Grace. But he did know a girl whose Divine Arts talent was so potent that even her belongings were imbued with divine power.