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Chapter 302: Magic Stacking Technique (Three-in-One Chapter)
After finally pulling the arrows out of my body, the culprit was still humming a little melody, looking Content/Satisfied. How hateful! Just you wait, you old woman who can't get married, I'll show you what it means for the tables to turn.
"Right, Old Drunkard, do you know how to effectively enhance Magic Power?" I planned to learn from the enemy to defeat the enemy, so I decided to first ask the experienced Old Drunkard for advice.
"Enhance Magic Power? That's not my area of expertise." Kashya took a swig of Inn and fell into thought.
"And don't tell me about impractical Techniques like Magic Compression for a Rookie like me," I said, cutting off Kashya just as she was about to speak.
"Well, if you can't compress it, how about Overlapping Skills?"
Kashya scratched her Head for a long time before hesitantly speaking. Although Amazons also had Magic Skills, they were used in conjunction with Javelins or Bow and Arrows. When it came to Pure Magic Techniques, she was completely clueless.
"Overlapping Skills?" I was slightly taken aback. Could that work? There's only one Magic Engraving. Can I prepare two at the same time?
"Why not? Watch this."
Kashya tilted her nose up. She didn't know much about Pure Magic Techniques, but when it came to Overlapping Skills, it was a piece of cake for her. As she spoke, she held a Javelin in each hand, spun them around a few times, then gripped them steadily in her palms, adopting a throwing stance. To make sure I understood, she even let out a solemn shout, "Lightning Javelin!"
Immediately, the two Wooden Javelins in Kashya's hands transformed into two bolts of Lightning White Light, which she then threw out. Two white Energy Pillars flashed past, leaving two deep Ravines in the Ground that extended for hundreds of meters before disappearing. Thick scorched smoke continuously rose from the Ravines.
Damn, that's Abnormal. This so-called Lightning Javelin, I guessed, should be the Amazon's Javelin and Spear Mastery Tier 2 Skill—Lightning Bolt. It was just a mere Tier 2 Skill, but when cast by the Old Drunkard, its Power was no less than Light Snow 's Radiant Fury Strike. Casting two at the same time meant the Power of Radiant Fury Strike * 2. Are High-Level Adventurers all Monster-like existences like her?
But what surprised me even more was that the Old Drunkard actually did it. Casting two identical Skills at the same time was indeed possible. Had she really ignored the Fact that there was only one Magic Engraving?
"Although I don't know much about Pure Magic Techniques, I think this should be the first step towards Magic Compression. If you can't even overlap Magic, don't even dream about Magic Compression."
To me, what Kashya said at this moment was authoritative. Although she didn't delve deeply into Pure Magic Techniques, as the saying goes, understanding one thing leads to understanding many. I didn't doubt the correctness of her words in the slightest.
"How did you do it?"
I asked, scratching my Head. There's only one Magic Engraving. Could it be split in half to cast?
Okay, let's assume that after completing the first one, she immediately prepared the second. Since it was Instant Cast Magic, it looked like they were cast simultaneously. Let's assume that's the case. But as far as I know, even the simplest Magic has a little Cooldown. It's like treating the Magic Engraving as a fragile circuit. If current passes through it continuously, the circuit will burn out from the heat. So, each Magic Engraving needs Cooldown Time. It might be okay once or twice, but if you do it multiple times, the Magic Engraving will collapse sooner or later.
"Hmm, I can't help you with this either. You'll have to figure it out yourself." Kashya looked like she was doing it for my own good.
"Three barrels of Ale." I expressionlessly held up three fingers towards her.
"Deal!" Kashya replied almost instinctively. === Then she awkwardly scratched her Head again.
"It's not that I don't want to tell you, but this thing is really hard to explain clearly. When you can do it, you'll naturally be able to do it. If I had to say something, I can only give you four words—Practice Makes Perfect."
Damn, there's still no shortcut. Thinking about it, that makes sense. As of now, without Soul Magic, it would take me at least several more years of exploration to achieve Preliminary Magic Optimization as a Magic Idiot. In other words, Soul Magic is already Abnormal enough. If it were any more Abnormal, the Horadrim could rule the entire Dark Continent. Actually, there isn't a compromise, it's just a bit troublesome. Has Fara taught you Magic Stacking Technique?"
"Yes, he has."
I nodded. The so-called Magic Stacking Technique is to prepare the first Magic while simultaneously storing the second Magic. Its purpose is to instantly cast the stored second Magic after casting the first, eliminating the Chanting Time for the second Magic. For Rookies who cannot perform Instant Cast Magic, this Technique is quite useful.
Although useful, the Stacking Technique also has certain limitations. The difficulty increases geometrically with each stack. Fara said he could only stack up to six, and those were below the Fourth Tier. So, this Stacking Technique was completely useless to him. He could instantly cast almost all Magic below the Fourth Tier.
I don't know how many I can stack now. I remember only being able to stack one before. I haven't used this Technique in a long time, so I don't know my current level.
"Exactly! Just use this Stacking Technique to store the first Magic and cast it simultaneously with the second Magic. Isn't that the same thing?" Kashya snapped her fingers and said excitedly.
"You're right! Why didn't I think of that?"
I jumped up on the spot. If Kashya were a hundred years younger, I would definitely kiss her.
No sooner said than done, I immediately prepared the first Firestorm. I can instantly cast Firestorm now, so the Attack was ready in the blink of an Eye. Next, I waited for the Firestorm's Cooldown. Tier 1 Skills are better; it only took less than two seconds to cool down. Then I stored the second Firestorm. After finishing, I felt I still had some Energy left, so I waited another two seconds. The third Firestorm was actually ready too.
This means I can now stack two Magic spells. Of course, this has a lot to do with Firestorm being only a First Tier Magic.
"Super Firestorm!"
With a light shout, three Firestorms rose from the Ground, then three turned into nine, spreading out crookedly. It actually looked even more spectacular than a Sorceress's Sea of Fire.
It's done! I happily clenched my Fists, then wiped the Sweat from my forehead. A sense of fatigue vaguely surged into my mind. This side effect occurred partly because it was my first time casting it and I wasn't very proficient, and also because the previous Practice had consumed a lot of my Mental Power. As for the second reason, it was, of course, due to the enormous Consumption of the Magic Stacking Technique and casting three Magic spells simultaneously.
"I'm exhausted. This is really not something a person should do."
I let out a breath and said, shaking my Head, but anyone could see the Joy in my Heart. Although small, it was indeed a huge step forward.
I drank a Mana Potion and sat down to Rest, while also contemplating the shortcomings of this Technique.
First, of course, is the Consumption issue. If I were to cast Firestorm normally, one after another, I could cast it hundreds of times without a problem. But like this, I estimate I can only use it a little over 20 times at most, and this Stats is an estimation after I become proficient in using it.
Second, the Time issue. I can instantly cast a single Firestorm. But stacking it once requires waiting two seconds for the Cooldown. Stacking it twice is four seconds. This Time is very critical, and there is currently no way to shorten it. *****
Third, the Control issue. I can now control the direction of a single Firestorm's spread as I please. But with three, just being able to cast them is difficult enough, let alone manipulating them. This might improve somewhat after becoming proficient, well, maybe.
Calculating the gains and losses before and after, and simulating various Battle scenes in my Brain, adding in the several Optimized Magic spells I currently possess to figure out the suitable Environment for casting various Magic spells, suddenly, a light bulb went off in my Brain.
Since I can cast three Firestorms together, what if I changed the second stack to Molten Boulder and then combined Firestorm and Molten Boulder to cast? That might work, and it would save those two seconds of Cooldown Time. It would be killing two birds with one stone.
Thinking this, I felt my Mental Power had recovered a little, so I couldn't wait to stand up.
First, Firestorm was instantly prepared.
Next was Molten Boulder. With the help of the Book of Cain and the Horadric Cube's Attributes, I could almost instantly cast this Tier 2 Magic. It definitely wouldn't take more than 1 second. In other words, casting Firestorm + Molten Boulder would save about one second compared to Firestorm + Firestorm.
After preparing Molten Boulder, I felt the two Magic spells jumping up and down under my Control, already at the limit of what I could control. I couldn't stack a second one. Tier 2 Magic is indeed Tier 2 Magic.
I wasn't greedy. With Sweat covering my Head, I controlled the two Magic spells, my face flushed red. Hmm, something felt strange. Why wouldn't the two Magic spells come together?
At this moment, Kashya, who was nearby, also noticed my abnormality. Her Complexion changed. "Wu, you're not trying to stack different Magic spells and cast them together, are you?"
I nodded with difficulty, unable to even speak. The two different Magic spells became increasingly Restless/Mischievous and violent under my aggressive attempts to fuse them.
"Are you an Idiot?! Quick, quick, dispel them! Release them one by one!" Kashya said, rarely showing such panic.
I wanted to, but I was already in too deep. The two Magic spells couldn't be pulled apart, nor would they come together, sticking like malt candy, making me feel so frustrated I wanted to vomit Blood.
"Boom!"
A huge explosion, accompanied by thick black smoke rolling up, engulfed my entire Body in a sky full of Fire Serpents. The empty space instantly turned into a Sea of Fire. After a while, when the Great Fire calmed down, the spot where I had been standing had become a Large Pit several meters deep.
In the Large Pit, I stood like a stone statue in the center, my entire Body scorched black, smoke still rising from my Clothes. I stood there for several seconds, finally opening my mouth and spitting out a puff of black smoke.
"Well, as a Self-Destruct Skill, it's quite good."
After saying this, the world spun, and I fell straight down.
"Kid, are you awake? Did your Brain get blown up?"
As soon as I opened my Eyes, the Old Drunkard's gloating Appearance magnified in my Vision.
"Ghost!"
I shouted in a calm tone completely devoid of Feelings/Emotions, pretending to be startled.
Undoubtedly, I got hit on the Head. Damn it, does this guy not know I'm a Wounded? Does she really want to beat me into a fool?
"Consider yourself lucky, kid, that you're completely unharmed. You know, overlapping identical Magic and overlapping different Magic are not on the same Level of difficulty at all. It's a miracle that you, this Idiot, could take it for granted and actually try it. There have been many Sorcerers in History who were straight-laced like you, and then they became idiots or a puddle of Meat."
Muttering curses as she just stood up, Kashya's serious Appearance immediately sent a chill down my spine. ^^^^
"Is there really no way? Can this barrier truly not be crossed?" I muttered, feeling a bit unwilling.
"Who says there's no way? Look at that old man Fara. Forget overlapping two different Magic spells, he can even fuse Magic spells of different Elements. Back then, that old guy's most skilled Move was Lightning Ice Ring, a Composite Magic fused from the Lightning Element Tier 4 Skill Chain Lightning and the Cold Element Tier 4 Skill Ice Bolt. Oh, and let me give you some juicy news. That guy's Ultimate Skill is Permafrost Arrow Hell, fused from Chain Lightning and the Cold Element Tier 6 Skill Frozen Orb. Tsk tsk, every time Chain Lightning hits an Enemy, it explodes into a Frozen Orb. It's simply a Purgatory covered in Ice Arrows. That Scene..."
Kashya shook her Head and made a final judgment.
"Flashy, extremely flashy."
Just as I was immersed in the fantasy Scene of countless Frozen Orbs exploding, Kashya tapped me with her Wooden Bow.
"This is exclusive Secret news. You absolutely must not tell that old guy that I told you. That old flashy guy doesn't seem to like bringing up his past. It's best not to tell him, otherwise, if you piss him off, I won't Help/Assist you."
I quickly nodded.
"Okay, good that you know. Back to the main topic. So, it's not that you can't overlap different Magic spells. The key is that your Magic Control and Magic Proficiency are too far behind Fara's. After all, that old guy has been practicing for over a hundred years. You, this little kid, can't compare even if you try your best. Practice more in the future, and don't rely too much on that Soul Magic."
"Alright, alright, I get it."
I waved my hand impatiently, but secretly felt grateful. It seems this Old Drunkard isn't so bad after all. I guess besides telling me about the Three-No Princess, she also came with the intention of guiding me this time.
"Ungrateful brat, you're really cut from the same cloth as that dead girl." Seeing my Appearance, Kashya naturally ground her Teeth.
"Speaking of which, how should I explain this to Akara?"
I looked around. The Church Back Garden was a mess from my Self-Destruct. What was worse was that the Old Drunkard, probably overly excited for a moment, had aimed her two Lightning Javelins directly at the Church. As a result, the originally pinkish-white beautiful Chapel was pierced with two large Holes, just a step away from collapsing.
The Large Pit I made was easy to deal with. Just fill it with Dirt and plant some Flowers and Grasses. But the Old Drunkard's two Holes weren't that easy. Maybe the entire Church would have to be torn down and rebuilt. Therefore, a gloating smile faithfully appeared on my face.
"Wu, well, you see, I was just demonstrating for you. You can't be so heartless as to make me responsible alone."
The Old Drunkard immediately panicked. If there was anyone she was afraid of, it was Akara. Although Akara was usually calm and composed, people like her were the most terrifying when they got angry. Yes, that's probably right...
"Fine, I'll pay for the repairs, but you have to explain to Akara."
I thought about it and felt there wasn't much more Oil to squeeze out of the Old Drunkard. Besides, she did Help/Assist me a lot today, so I'll put in a little effort.
"Ah—!!"
Thinking about facing Akara, the Old Drunkard's face immediately fell. However, since I, the Scrooge, was finally willing to shed some Blood, she also felt a little relieved. Her Eyes rolled, probably afraid I would suddenly go back on my word, so she left with a phrase, "I'll go tell Akara immediately," and disappeared in a flash.
Next, sigh, my Mental Power is almost depleted. Today's Practice ends here. Hmm. Should I go pick up the Three-No Princess immediately, or hang out at the "new" Rogue Inn for a while and let her suffer a bit more? That is indeed a Question. *****
Just as I patted my Body and planned to leave the Church, the Old Drunkard, who had just left, came back. Wasn't she afraid I'd go back on my word? Oh, someone was following her. Looking closely, it was Fara, whom I hadn't seen for over a month, making me suspect he had been sent to the Shut-in University.
The two great Abnormal of the Rogue Encampment were walking together. It seemed they were heading straight for me. At this moment, the fifth Antenna Hair from the left on my forehead bangs issued a serious Red Alert—the Antenna Hair that only issued a Yellow Alert during earthquakes, tsunamis, world-ending events, or even the End of the World, was actually issuing a Red Alert. You can imagine how panicked I was feeling.
As I thought this, my Body instinctively leaped sideways. I executed a Lazy Donkey Roll and threw myself into the Jungle beside the path. After rolling a few times, my Body seemed to hit something like a dry Tree Root and stopped.
Huh, it seemed there were no obstacles in the direction I chose.
Looking up, Fara's "kind" smile appeared above me.
"My dear Wu, what makes you so interested in rolling around on the Ground?"
"Hiss—"
A chill ran through my entire Body. "My dear Wu"? How many years had it been since this Old Man called me that? There's a Conspiracy, definitely a Conspiracy.
"Cough cough, Velas is still waiting for me to come back for Dinner. I won't be joining you in your madness."
I turned and ran, but after only a few steps, my collar was grabbed from behind by the Old Drunkard.
"Old woman, let go! Aren't you afraid I won't pay for the Church repairs?" I threatened sternly.
"It's alright, it's alright. We in the Mage Guild can afford this small amount of Money," Fara said with a smile, slowly following behind.
I wondered why the Old Drunkard was so arrogant. Turns out she found a backer. Speaking of which, aren't these two Abnormal usually incompatible? Why are they singing the same tune today? One of them is enough to give me a Headache. With these two together, it seems I'm doomed.
"Come, come, don't be shy. Let us three Elders have a good gathering and discuss the future of the Rogue Encampment," the Old Drunkard said righteously, then dragged me back to the Church Back Garden.
Shy my ass! Who wants to gather with you two Abnormal? What does the future of the Rogue Encampment have to do with you?
Under the suppression of a Level 78 Amazon's Strength, I obediently allowed myself to be dragged to the center of the empty space. Then, the two old guys took up a mysterious stance, locking down all Possibilities for me, front, back, left, right, and even up to the heavens and down to the Earth.
"Hmm—" Fara nodded Content/Satisfied. His withered, firewood-like hand reached into his Inventory, carefully, not sure what he was taking out.
I say, are you skipping the foreplay? Skipping even the foreplay of discussing the future of the Rogue Encampment? Are you guys that impatient, you Abnormal?
Finally, a glass test tube appeared in Fara's hand, containing two-thirds of a cloudy white solution.
"Here, Wu, drink this and see." At this moment, Fara's smile was like a doctor comforting a child before an injection, well, an Abnormal doctor secretly researching biochemical Weapons.
"What is this?"
I asked, trembling, thinking that I probably wouldn't see my lovely Sarah and Velas again. The Three-No Princess would probably have to be locked up for half a month. And Little Ghost... Hey, I say, Little Ghost, can't you come out and help your husband out? Can you accept me turning into a biochemical Monster?
"It's the Stamina Potion from Lord Tal Rasha's Notes! Speaking of which, I have you to thank," Fara said with a chuckle, the test tube getting closer and closer to my mouth.
Damn me, I brought this upon myself.
"Why do you have to use me for experiments? Any Cat or Dog would do."
Held down by Kashya, I could only shake my Head left and right to avoid the approaching test tube.
"Animals can't withstand the ingredients of the Potion. Only Class-Changed Ones can. You're an Elder, don't you feel you have this Obligation?"
"I resign! Now, immediately, right now!"
"Don't worry, although the old guy's character isn't great, his skill is definitely commendable. He's never caused any Loss of Life in experiments before," Kashya said, kindly comforting me, which made me feel a little relieved.
Of course. This old guy had never used people for experiments before, only some Small Animals. I didn't lie, Kashya added in her Heart, feeling smug about her cleverness.
"Wait, if there's Stamina Potion, then there should be Mental Power Potion too. Let's try the Mental Power Potion first."
Since I couldn't escape the Destiny of being a Mouse, I could only make a choice. After all, I had consumed a lot of Mental Power during the Practice just now. Drinking Mental Power Potion would be more practical than drinking Stamina Potion.
"The Mental Power Potion isn't finished yet. It'll probably be a few more days. Let's try the Stamina Potion first. Don't worry, even if it's ineffective, we absolutely won't Joke with your Life. Otherwise, Akara would skin me alive," Fara said awkwardly.
"Then why don't you use the Old Drunkard for the experiment?"
"It's not that I'm unwilling, but for people of our Level, like Basic Healing Potions, this Basic Stamina Potion is already ineffective for us. Cain and Akara can't handle it either, so we can only find you."
After Kashya explained this, I felt a little better.
"But my Vitality hasn't been consumed much right now. Even if I drink the Stamina Potion, it might not have any effect."
"Ah, I was so focused on the experiment, how could I forget this? What should we do then?" Fara slapped his Head in Realization, pacing back and forth anxiously.
"Fine, I'll accept my fate today and Help/Assist you guys." I sighed, shaking my Head. Since there was no Danger, I should occasionally fulfill my Obligation as an Elder.
Saying this, I stood up. After standing still for a moment, I suddenly let out a Roar towards the sky. My Body instantly enlarged dozens of times. The ten-meter-tall Blood Bear Transformation fully displayed its Frenzy and Dominance.
It's worth mentioning that I can now control that Berserk Power even without Fusion with Little Ghost. Another benefit Soul Magic brought me is the ability to temper Soul Power. However, the wonderful Feeling of being one with Little Ghost, that contact and inclusion between Souls, is more enjoyable than anything else. Little Ghost probably feels the same way, so we both have a tacit understanding.
"Warriv said you could already control this Power. I didn't quite believe it," Kashya said loudly, stepping back a few steps and looking up at me.
I rolled my Eyes at Kashya. I don't know what it looks like when a Blood Bear rolls its Eyes; I don't have a Mirror. Anyway, the Old Drunkard was amused.
Speaking of the fastest way to consume Energy, Energy Cannon is definitely the top choice. Immediately, a violent Black Lightning slowly gathered in my mouth. The airflow emanating from the Black Energy Ball created a Gale across the entire empty space. The already shaky Church finally couldn't withstand it anymore and collapsed into flat Ground with a boom.
Fara and Kashya had already witnessed the Power of the Energy Cannon. At this moment, they were also hiding behind a broken Wall, holding their Heads, comically poking their Heads out from behind to watch, seemingly afraid that I would make a mistake and affect them.
When the Energy Ball reached the size of a soccer ball, I stopped condensing it. I opened my mouth wide and assumed a ready-to-fire stance—who knows if that Stamina Potion would work.
The Black Lightning Ball instantly expanded several times. Under my manipulation, it formed a barrel-thick black Energy Pillar flashing with Lightning Glow, disappearing into the distant green and blue intersection. The huge Ravine created by the Energy Pillar extended for thousands of meters before gradually disappearing, countless times more powerful than Kashya's Lightning Javelin.
Canceling the Shapeshifting, I collapsed onto the Ground, exhausted, panting heavily. At this moment, the two great Abnormal of the Rogue Encampment, seeing the Danger had passed, flashed back to my side with smiling faces.
"Kid, impressive! Even I can't unleash a Move with such great Power," Kashya said, looking at the spectacular Ravine, patting my shoulder with a sigh.
Hmph, Amazons aren't known for their immense Power to begin with. What she excels at is Control. Don't think what Kashya said isn't true, but if we were to really fight, it wouldn't take her more than ten minutes to defeat me.
"Here, drink this and see."
Fara looked at me with an excited face. Right now, in his Eyes, there was probably nothing else besides this bottle of Stamina Potion.
Holding the test tube, I shook it like a cocktail and drank it down without hesitation. I smacked my lips. It had a slightly fishy Scent, but it wasn't bad.
"How is it?" Fara asked, trembling his beard.
"It's a bit fishy. The Taste is better than I expected," I said, stating my thoughts.
"The main ingredient of Stamina Potion is Demon Beast Blood. There's bound to be a bit of a fishy Scent. I'm asking about the effect, the effect!"
"Uh—" I was stunned for a moment, then suddenly stood up.
"Haha, my back doesn't ache, my legs aren't weak, and I feel full of Energy! This thing works, it really works!"
I said, overjoyed. Although this bottle of Stamina Potion couldn't completely replenish the Vitality I had just lost, it at least restored ninety percent of my Combat Power. How could I not be happy? With this thing, won't I be able to fire Energy Cannons twice in the future, one to fight Monsters and the other as Fireworks?
There was someone even happier than me present. Fara was dancing with Joy, so excited he couldn't even laugh out loud like a mute. Over a month of sleepless research hadn't been in vain. The Joy of success that comes from effort and reward is something outsiders find hard to understand.
"Do you have any more of this stuff? How about giving me a few dozen bottles? Money is not a problem," I said, reaching out to Fara with a drooling face.
"This is the only bottle. Don't worry, we can mass-produce it now. You, the contributor, won't be forgotten. As the first person in the entire Diablo to drink a Stamina Potion, your name will be recorded in History. How about it, happy?"
"Giving me a hundred bottles of Stamina Potion would be more practical," I said, sniffing, not caring at all.
"You brat..." Fara was so angry he didn't know what to say.
"Young Wu, let me tell you something beforehand. The effect of Stamina Potion is just to stimulate the Body's Potential, which is equivalent to borrowing Vitality in advance. Don't drink too much continuously, or you'll suffer the side effects," Fara said to me before leaving, then disappeared with a Teleport.
This is just the most basic Stamina Potion. Next, they will develop intermediate, High-Level, and probably even super-level ones. Only these Potions are truly suitable for High-Level Adventurers. There's also the Mental Power Potion, and most importantly, that Remote Teleportation Magic Array. Just thinking about it, I can understand how busy Fara is. I probably won't see him for over a year.
After Fara left, Kashya also flashed away immediately. Turning back, I surveyed the thousand-meter-long huge Ravine I had created, the collapsed house, the greatly cracked Earth. After indulging myself for a while, I suddenly froze.
Huh? Could it be that the repair costs for this Loss will all fall on me alone?!!!
"Filling the pit will probably require..., and the Church's..., whimper..."
Along the way, I counted on my fingers and toes, counting again and again, feeling that it would take at least ten thousand Gold Coins to restore the entire Church to its original state. My Heart ached so much it felt like my balls hurt.
"Wu, where are you going?"
Just then, a kind and amiable Voice came from not far away. Turning back, it was the Blind Sister Superior, Akara, the Leader of the Rogue Encampment, greeting me with her Cane.
"It's Lady Akara! Ahaha..."
My smile felt a bit strained. Seeing Akara's smiling face now, I felt like my wallet had a Hole dug in it, and the Gold Coins inside were flowing out with a rustling sound.
"So that's how it is, mm-hmm, I understand," Akara said, smiling after I finished explaining.
Whimper, damn that Old Drunkard, she got off easy.
"Akara, you're not angry?"
I asked cautiously. After all, when she gave me the Key back then, she repeatedly told me to be extremely careful.
"Hehe, it's alright, it's alright. You didn't do it intentionally. Besides, didn't you promise to rebuild the Church? What do I have to be angry about? Fortunately, there hasn't been anything that required the Church recently."
I immediately breathed a sigh of relief.
"I didn't expect Fara to have already developed the Stamina Potion. This is great News!" Looking at Akara's Complexion, it was clearly an expression of Joy. As expected, she was still a reasonable Leader.
"Right, Wu, do you have Time? How about coming to see with me?" Seeing my stunned Appearance, Akara smiled.
"I know you've probably been curious about where I disappear to sometimes. How about it, interested?" After saying this, she didn't wait for my answer and took a step.
This, this, this... wasn't this clearly Temptation? After silently reciting "Curiosity killed the Cat" ninety-nine times, my Heart froze, and I resolutely followed.
Although she was blind and used a Cane, Akara's Footsteps were not slow at all. I was only stunned for a moment, and she had already walked a hundred meters away.
"Akara, where are we going?"
Along the way, I couldn't help but ask. The path she was taking me on was one I had never seen before. I had been in the Rogue Encampment for three years, and I never knew there was such a Place.
When a faint Magic Fluctuation came over, I widened my Eyes in surprise—it wasn't because I didn't understand the Camp, but clearly this Place was covered by a huge Magic Array. Without permission, you simply couldn't enter. If I hadn't mastered Soul Magic, I wouldn't have been able to detect this Magic Fluctuation at all.
What kind of Place is this? What important things are here that warrant such a large expenditure to hide the entire Zone? With this Question, I closely followed Akara's Footsteps, watching her open one Magic Barrier after another. Finally, we arrived at...
Sweat. What kind of Place is this? Walking out of the Magic Barrier, my Eyes lit up. What unfolded In Front of me was a huge Camp, just like the North District Training Camp, but the facilities inside seemed more comprehensive, covering almost all aspects of food, clothing, housing, and transportation. It was practically a small self-sufficient base.
Within my Line of Sight, some white Figures were on the Training Ground, with a White Light flashing on their Bodies from time to time.
"Could this be...?" With a look of Doubt, I looked at Akara.
"That's right, this is the Rogue Encampment's Secret Training Ground. Welcome, Wu. From now on, you will also be a member here."
After finally pulling the arrows out of my body, the culprit was still humming a little melody, looking Content/Satisfied. How hateful! Just you wait, you old woman who can't get married, I'll show you what it means for the tables to turn.
"Right, Old Drunkard, do you know how to effectively enhance Magic Power?" I planned to learn from the enemy to defeat the enemy, so I decided to first ask the experienced Old Drunkard for advice.
"Enhance Magic Power? That's not my area of expertise." Kashya took a swig of Inn and fell into thought.
"And don't tell me about impractical Techniques like Magic Compression for a Rookie like me," I said, cutting off Kashya just as she was about to speak.
"Well, if you can't compress it, how about Overlapping Skills?"
Kashya scratched her Head for a long time before hesitantly speaking. Although Amazons also had Magic Skills, they were used in conjunction with Javelins or Bow and Arrows. When it came to Pure Magic Techniques, she was completely clueless.
"Overlapping Skills?" I was slightly taken aback. Could that work? There's only one Magic Engraving. Can I prepare two at the same time?
"Why not? Watch this."
Kashya tilted her nose up. She didn't know much about Pure Magic Techniques, but when it came to Overlapping Skills, it was a piece of cake for her. As she spoke, she held a Javelin in each hand, spun them around a few times, then gripped them steadily in her palms, adopting a throwing stance. To make sure I understood, she even let out a solemn shout, "Lightning Javelin!"
Immediately, the two Wooden Javelins in Kashya's hands transformed into two bolts of Lightning White Light, which she then threw out. Two white Energy Pillars flashed past, leaving two deep Ravines in the Ground that extended for hundreds of meters before disappearing. Thick scorched smoke continuously rose from the Ravines.
Damn, that's Abnormal. This so-called Lightning Javelin, I guessed, should be the Amazon's Javelin and Spear Mastery Tier 2 Skill—Lightning Bolt. It was just a mere Tier 2 Skill, but when cast by the Old Drunkard, its Power was no less than Light Snow 's Radiant Fury Strike. Casting two at the same time meant the Power of Radiant Fury Strike * 2. Are High-Level Adventurers all Monster-like existences like her?
But what surprised me even more was that the Old Drunkard actually did it. Casting two identical Skills at the same time was indeed possible. Had she really ignored the Fact that there was only one Magic Engraving?
"Although I don't know much about Pure Magic Techniques, I think this should be the first step towards Magic Compression. If you can't even overlap Magic, don't even dream about Magic Compression."
To me, what Kashya said at this moment was authoritative. Although she didn't delve deeply into Pure Magic Techniques, as the saying goes, understanding one thing leads to understanding many. I didn't doubt the correctness of her words in the slightest.
"How did you do it?"
I asked, scratching my Head. There's only one Magic Engraving. Could it be split in half to cast?
Okay, let's assume that after completing the first one, she immediately prepared the second. Since it was Instant Cast Magic, it looked like they were cast simultaneously. Let's assume that's the case. But as far as I know, even the simplest Magic has a little Cooldown. It's like treating the Magic Engraving as a fragile circuit. If current passes through it continuously, the circuit will burn out from the heat. So, each Magic Engraving needs Cooldown Time. It might be okay once or twice, but if you do it multiple times, the Magic Engraving will collapse sooner or later.
"Hmm, I can't help you with this either. You'll have to figure it out yourself." Kashya looked like she was doing it for my own good.
"Three barrels of Ale." I expressionlessly held up three fingers towards her.
"Deal!" Kashya replied almost instinctively. === Then she awkwardly scratched her Head again.
"It's not that I don't want to tell you, but this thing is really hard to explain clearly. When you can do it, you'll naturally be able to do it. If I had to say something, I can only give you four words—Practice Makes Perfect."
Damn, there's still no shortcut. Thinking about it, that makes sense. As of now, without Soul Magic, it would take me at least several more years of exploration to achieve Preliminary Magic Optimization as a Magic Idiot. In other words, Soul Magic is already Abnormal enough. If it were any more Abnormal, the Horadrim could rule the entire Dark Continent. Actually, there isn't a compromise, it's just a bit troublesome. Has Fara taught you Magic Stacking Technique?"
"Yes, he has."
I nodded. The so-called Magic Stacking Technique is to prepare the first Magic while simultaneously storing the second Magic. Its purpose is to instantly cast the stored second Magic after casting the first, eliminating the Chanting Time for the second Magic. For Rookies who cannot perform Instant Cast Magic, this Technique is quite useful.
Although useful, the Stacking Technique also has certain limitations. The difficulty increases geometrically with each stack. Fara said he could only stack up to six, and those were below the Fourth Tier. So, this Stacking Technique was completely useless to him. He could instantly cast almost all Magic below the Fourth Tier.
I don't know how many I can stack now. I remember only being able to stack one before. I haven't used this Technique in a long time, so I don't know my current level.
"Exactly! Just use this Stacking Technique to store the first Magic and cast it simultaneously with the second Magic. Isn't that the same thing?" Kashya snapped her fingers and said excitedly.
"You're right! Why didn't I think of that?"
I jumped up on the spot. If Kashya were a hundred years younger, I would definitely kiss her.
No sooner said than done, I immediately prepared the first Firestorm. I can instantly cast Firestorm now, so the Attack was ready in the blink of an Eye. Next, I waited for the Firestorm's Cooldown. Tier 1 Skills are better; it only took less than two seconds to cool down. Then I stored the second Firestorm. After finishing, I felt I still had some Energy left, so I waited another two seconds. The third Firestorm was actually ready too.
This means I can now stack two Magic spells. Of course, this has a lot to do with Firestorm being only a First Tier Magic.
"Super Firestorm!"
With a light shout, three Firestorms rose from the Ground, then three turned into nine, spreading out crookedly. It actually looked even more spectacular than a Sorceress's Sea of Fire.
It's done! I happily clenched my Fists, then wiped the Sweat from my forehead. A sense of fatigue vaguely surged into my mind. This side effect occurred partly because it was my first time casting it and I wasn't very proficient, and also because the previous Practice had consumed a lot of my Mental Power. As for the second reason, it was, of course, due to the enormous Consumption of the Magic Stacking Technique and casting three Magic spells simultaneously.
"I'm exhausted. This is really not something a person should do."
I let out a breath and said, shaking my Head, but anyone could see the Joy in my Heart. Although small, it was indeed a huge step forward.
I drank a Mana Potion and sat down to Rest, while also contemplating the shortcomings of this Technique.
First, of course, is the Consumption issue. If I were to cast Firestorm normally, one after another, I could cast it hundreds of times without a problem. But like this, I estimate I can only use it a little over 20 times at most, and this Stats is an estimation after I become proficient in using it.
Second, the Time issue. I can instantly cast a single Firestorm. But stacking it once requires waiting two seconds for the Cooldown. Stacking it twice is four seconds. This Time is very critical, and there is currently no way to shorten it. *****
Third, the Control issue. I can now control the direction of a single Firestorm's spread as I please. But with three, just being able to cast them is difficult enough, let alone manipulating them. This might improve somewhat after becoming proficient, well, maybe.
Calculating the gains and losses before and after, and simulating various Battle scenes in my Brain, adding in the several Optimized Magic spells I currently possess to figure out the suitable Environment for casting various Magic spells, suddenly, a light bulb went off in my Brain.
Since I can cast three Firestorms together, what if I changed the second stack to Molten Boulder and then combined Firestorm and Molten Boulder to cast? That might work, and it would save those two seconds of Cooldown Time. It would be killing two birds with one stone.
Thinking this, I felt my Mental Power had recovered a little, so I couldn't wait to stand up.
First, Firestorm was instantly prepared.
Next was Molten Boulder. With the help of the Book of Cain and the Horadric Cube's Attributes, I could almost instantly cast this Tier 2 Magic. It definitely wouldn't take more than 1 second. In other words, casting Firestorm + Molten Boulder would save about one second compared to Firestorm + Firestorm.
After preparing Molten Boulder, I felt the two Magic spells jumping up and down under my Control, already at the limit of what I could control. I couldn't stack a second one. Tier 2 Magic is indeed Tier 2 Magic.
I wasn't greedy. With Sweat covering my Head, I controlled the two Magic spells, my face flushed red. Hmm, something felt strange. Why wouldn't the two Magic spells come together?
At this moment, Kashya, who was nearby, also noticed my abnormality. Her Complexion changed. "Wu, you're not trying to stack different Magic spells and cast them together, are you?"
I nodded with difficulty, unable to even speak. The two different Magic spells became increasingly Restless/Mischievous and violent under my aggressive attempts to fuse them.
"Are you an Idiot?! Quick, quick, dispel them! Release them one by one!" Kashya said, rarely showing such panic.
I wanted to, but I was already in too deep. The two Magic spells couldn't be pulled apart, nor would they come together, sticking like malt candy, making me feel so frustrated I wanted to vomit Blood.
"Boom!"
A huge explosion, accompanied by thick black smoke rolling up, engulfed my entire Body in a sky full of Fire Serpents. The empty space instantly turned into a Sea of Fire. After a while, when the Great Fire calmed down, the spot where I had been standing had become a Large Pit several meters deep.
In the Large Pit, I stood like a stone statue in the center, my entire Body scorched black, smoke still rising from my Clothes. I stood there for several seconds, finally opening my mouth and spitting out a puff of black smoke.
"Well, as a Self-Destruct Skill, it's quite good."
After saying this, the world spun, and I fell straight down.
"Kid, are you awake? Did your Brain get blown up?"
As soon as I opened my Eyes, the Old Drunkard's gloating Appearance magnified in my Vision.
"Ghost!"
I shouted in a calm tone completely devoid of Feelings/Emotions, pretending to be startled.
Undoubtedly, I got hit on the Head. Damn it, does this guy not know I'm a Wounded? Does she really want to beat me into a fool?
"Consider yourself lucky, kid, that you're completely unharmed. You know, overlapping identical Magic and overlapping different Magic are not on the same Level of difficulty at all. It's a miracle that you, this Idiot, could take it for granted and actually try it. There have been many Sorcerers in History who were straight-laced like you, and then they became idiots or a puddle of Meat."
Muttering curses as she just stood up, Kashya's serious Appearance immediately sent a chill down my spine. ^^^^
"Is there really no way? Can this barrier truly not be crossed?" I muttered, feeling a bit unwilling.
"Who says there's no way? Look at that old man Fara. Forget overlapping two different Magic spells, he can even fuse Magic spells of different Elements. Back then, that old guy's most skilled Move was Lightning Ice Ring, a Composite Magic fused from the Lightning Element Tier 4 Skill Chain Lightning and the Cold Element Tier 4 Skill Ice Bolt. Oh, and let me give you some juicy news. That guy's Ultimate Skill is Permafrost Arrow Hell, fused from Chain Lightning and the Cold Element Tier 6 Skill Frozen Orb. Tsk tsk, every time Chain Lightning hits an Enemy, it explodes into a Frozen Orb. It's simply a Purgatory covered in Ice Arrows. That Scene..."
Kashya shook her Head and made a final judgment.
"Flashy, extremely flashy."
Just as I was immersed in the fantasy Scene of countless Frozen Orbs exploding, Kashya tapped me with her Wooden Bow.
"This is exclusive Secret news. You absolutely must not tell that old guy that I told you. That old flashy guy doesn't seem to like bringing up his past. It's best not to tell him, otherwise, if you piss him off, I won't Help/Assist you."
I quickly nodded.
"Okay, good that you know. Back to the main topic. So, it's not that you can't overlap different Magic spells. The key is that your Magic Control and Magic Proficiency are too far behind Fara's. After all, that old guy has been practicing for over a hundred years. You, this little kid, can't compare even if you try your best. Practice more in the future, and don't rely too much on that Soul Magic."
"Alright, alright, I get it."
I waved my hand impatiently, but secretly felt grateful. It seems this Old Drunkard isn't so bad after all. I guess besides telling me about the Three-No Princess, she also came with the intention of guiding me this time.
"Ungrateful brat, you're really cut from the same cloth as that dead girl." Seeing my Appearance, Kashya naturally ground her Teeth.
"Speaking of which, how should I explain this to Akara?"
I looked around. The Church Back Garden was a mess from my Self-Destruct. What was worse was that the Old Drunkard, probably overly excited for a moment, had aimed her two Lightning Javelins directly at the Church. As a result, the originally pinkish-white beautiful Chapel was pierced with two large Holes, just a step away from collapsing.
The Large Pit I made was easy to deal with. Just fill it with Dirt and plant some Flowers and Grasses. But the Old Drunkard's two Holes weren't that easy. Maybe the entire Church would have to be torn down and rebuilt. Therefore, a gloating smile faithfully appeared on my face.
"Wu, well, you see, I was just demonstrating for you. You can't be so heartless as to make me responsible alone."
The Old Drunkard immediately panicked. If there was anyone she was afraid of, it was Akara. Although Akara was usually calm and composed, people like her were the most terrifying when they got angry. Yes, that's probably right...
"Fine, I'll pay for the repairs, but you have to explain to Akara."
I thought about it and felt there wasn't much more Oil to squeeze out of the Old Drunkard. Besides, she did Help/Assist me a lot today, so I'll put in a little effort.
"Ah—!!"
Thinking about facing Akara, the Old Drunkard's face immediately fell. However, since I, the Scrooge, was finally willing to shed some Blood, she also felt a little relieved. Her Eyes rolled, probably afraid I would suddenly go back on my word, so she left with a phrase, "I'll go tell Akara immediately," and disappeared in a flash.
Next, sigh, my Mental Power is almost depleted. Today's Practice ends here. Hmm. Should I go pick up the Three-No Princess immediately, or hang out at the "new" Rogue Inn for a while and let her suffer a bit more? That is indeed a Question. *****
Just as I patted my Body and planned to leave the Church, the Old Drunkard, who had just left, came back. Wasn't she afraid I'd go back on my word? Oh, someone was following her. Looking closely, it was Fara, whom I hadn't seen for over a month, making me suspect he had been sent to the Shut-in University.
The two great Abnormal of the Rogue Encampment were walking together. It seemed they were heading straight for me. At this moment, the fifth Antenna Hair from the left on my forehead bangs issued a serious Red Alert—the Antenna Hair that only issued a Yellow Alert during earthquakes, tsunamis, world-ending events, or even the End of the World, was actually issuing a Red Alert. You can imagine how panicked I was feeling.
As I thought this, my Body instinctively leaped sideways. I executed a Lazy Donkey Roll and threw myself into the Jungle beside the path. After rolling a few times, my Body seemed to hit something like a dry Tree Root and stopped.
Huh, it seemed there were no obstacles in the direction I chose.
Looking up, Fara's "kind" smile appeared above me.
"My dear Wu, what makes you so interested in rolling around on the Ground?"
"Hiss—"
A chill ran through my entire Body. "My dear Wu"? How many years had it been since this Old Man called me that? There's a Conspiracy, definitely a Conspiracy.
"Cough cough, Velas is still waiting for me to come back for Dinner. I won't be joining you in your madness."
I turned and ran, but after only a few steps, my collar was grabbed from behind by the Old Drunkard.
"Old woman, let go! Aren't you afraid I won't pay for the Church repairs?" I threatened sternly.
"It's alright, it's alright. We in the Mage Guild can afford this small amount of Money," Fara said with a smile, slowly following behind.
I wondered why the Old Drunkard was so arrogant. Turns out she found a backer. Speaking of which, aren't these two Abnormal usually incompatible? Why are they singing the same tune today? One of them is enough to give me a Headache. With these two together, it seems I'm doomed.
"Come, come, don't be shy. Let us three Elders have a good gathering and discuss the future of the Rogue Encampment," the Old Drunkard said righteously, then dragged me back to the Church Back Garden.
Shy my ass! Who wants to gather with you two Abnormal? What does the future of the Rogue Encampment have to do with you?
Under the suppression of a Level 78 Amazon's Strength, I obediently allowed myself to be dragged to the center of the empty space. Then, the two old guys took up a mysterious stance, locking down all Possibilities for me, front, back, left, right, and even up to the heavens and down to the Earth.
"Hmm—" Fara nodded Content/Satisfied. His withered, firewood-like hand reached into his Inventory, carefully, not sure what he was taking out.
I say, are you skipping the foreplay? Skipping even the foreplay of discussing the future of the Rogue Encampment? Are you guys that impatient, you Abnormal?
Finally, a glass test tube appeared in Fara's hand, containing two-thirds of a cloudy white solution.
"Here, Wu, drink this and see." At this moment, Fara's smile was like a doctor comforting a child before an injection, well, an Abnormal doctor secretly researching biochemical Weapons.
"What is this?"
I asked, trembling, thinking that I probably wouldn't see my lovely Sarah and Velas again. The Three-No Princess would probably have to be locked up for half a month. And Little Ghost... Hey, I say, Little Ghost, can't you come out and help your husband out? Can you accept me turning into a biochemical Monster?
"It's the Stamina Potion from Lord Tal Rasha's Notes! Speaking of which, I have you to thank," Fara said with a chuckle, the test tube getting closer and closer to my mouth.
Damn me, I brought this upon myself.
"Why do you have to use me for experiments? Any Cat or Dog would do."
Held down by Kashya, I could only shake my Head left and right to avoid the approaching test tube.
"Animals can't withstand the ingredients of the Potion. Only Class-Changed Ones can. You're an Elder, don't you feel you have this Obligation?"
"I resign! Now, immediately, right now!"
"Don't worry, although the old guy's character isn't great, his skill is definitely commendable. He's never caused any Loss of Life in experiments before," Kashya said, kindly comforting me, which made me feel a little relieved.
Of course. This old guy had never used people for experiments before, only some Small Animals. I didn't lie, Kashya added in her Heart, feeling smug about her cleverness.
"Wait, if there's Stamina Potion, then there should be Mental Power Potion too. Let's try the Mental Power Potion first."
Since I couldn't escape the Destiny of being a Mouse, I could only make a choice. After all, I had consumed a lot of Mental Power during the Practice just now. Drinking Mental Power Potion would be more practical than drinking Stamina Potion.
"The Mental Power Potion isn't finished yet. It'll probably be a few more days. Let's try the Stamina Potion first. Don't worry, even if it's ineffective, we absolutely won't Joke with your Life. Otherwise, Akara would skin me alive," Fara said awkwardly.
"Then why don't you use the Old Drunkard for the experiment?"
"It's not that I'm unwilling, but for people of our Level, like Basic Healing Potions, this Basic Stamina Potion is already ineffective for us. Cain and Akara can't handle it either, so we can only find you."
After Kashya explained this, I felt a little better.
"But my Vitality hasn't been consumed much right now. Even if I drink the Stamina Potion, it might not have any effect."
"Ah, I was so focused on the experiment, how could I forget this? What should we do then?" Fara slapped his Head in Realization, pacing back and forth anxiously.
"Fine, I'll accept my fate today and Help/Assist you guys." I sighed, shaking my Head. Since there was no Danger, I should occasionally fulfill my Obligation as an Elder.
Saying this, I stood up. After standing still for a moment, I suddenly let out a Roar towards the sky. My Body instantly enlarged dozens of times. The ten-meter-tall Blood Bear Transformation fully displayed its Frenzy and Dominance.
It's worth mentioning that I can now control that Berserk Power even without Fusion with Little Ghost. Another benefit Soul Magic brought me is the ability to temper Soul Power. However, the wonderful Feeling of being one with Little Ghost, that contact and inclusion between Souls, is more enjoyable than anything else. Little Ghost probably feels the same way, so we both have a tacit understanding.
"Warriv said you could already control this Power. I didn't quite believe it," Kashya said loudly, stepping back a few steps and looking up at me.
I rolled my Eyes at Kashya. I don't know what it looks like when a Blood Bear rolls its Eyes; I don't have a Mirror. Anyway, the Old Drunkard was amused.
Speaking of the fastest way to consume Energy, Energy Cannon is definitely the top choice. Immediately, a violent Black Lightning slowly gathered in my mouth. The airflow emanating from the Black Energy Ball created a Gale across the entire empty space. The already shaky Church finally couldn't withstand it anymore and collapsed into flat Ground with a boom.
Fara and Kashya had already witnessed the Power of the Energy Cannon. At this moment, they were also hiding behind a broken Wall, holding their Heads, comically poking their Heads out from behind to watch, seemingly afraid that I would make a mistake and affect them.
When the Energy Ball reached the size of a soccer ball, I stopped condensing it. I opened my mouth wide and assumed a ready-to-fire stance—who knows if that Stamina Potion would work.
The Black Lightning Ball instantly expanded several times. Under my manipulation, it formed a barrel-thick black Energy Pillar flashing with Lightning Glow, disappearing into the distant green and blue intersection. The huge Ravine created by the Energy Pillar extended for thousands of meters before gradually disappearing, countless times more powerful than Kashya's Lightning Javelin.
Canceling the Shapeshifting, I collapsed onto the Ground, exhausted, panting heavily. At this moment, the two great Abnormal of the Rogue Encampment, seeing the Danger had passed, flashed back to my side with smiling faces.
"Kid, impressive! Even I can't unleash a Move with such great Power," Kashya said, looking at the spectacular Ravine, patting my shoulder with a sigh.
Hmph, Amazons aren't known for their immense Power to begin with. What she excels at is Control. Don't think what Kashya said isn't true, but if we were to really fight, it wouldn't take her more than ten minutes to defeat me.
"Here, drink this and see."
Fara looked at me with an excited face. Right now, in his Eyes, there was probably nothing else besides this bottle of Stamina Potion.
Holding the test tube, I shook it like a cocktail and drank it down without hesitation. I smacked my lips. It had a slightly fishy Scent, but it wasn't bad.
"How is it?" Fara asked, trembling his beard.
"It's a bit fishy. The Taste is better than I expected," I said, stating my thoughts.
"The main ingredient of Stamina Potion is Demon Beast Blood. There's bound to be a bit of a fishy Scent. I'm asking about the effect, the effect!"
"Uh—" I was stunned for a moment, then suddenly stood up.
"Haha, my back doesn't ache, my legs aren't weak, and I feel full of Energy! This thing works, it really works!"
I said, overjoyed. Although this bottle of Stamina Potion couldn't completely replenish the Vitality I had just lost, it at least restored ninety percent of my Combat Power. How could I not be happy? With this thing, won't I be able to fire Energy Cannons twice in the future, one to fight Monsters and the other as Fireworks?
There was someone even happier than me present. Fara was dancing with Joy, so excited he couldn't even laugh out loud like a mute. Over a month of sleepless research hadn't been in vain. The Joy of success that comes from effort and reward is something outsiders find hard to understand.
"Do you have any more of this stuff? How about giving me a few dozen bottles? Money is not a problem," I said, reaching out to Fara with a drooling face.
"This is the only bottle. Don't worry, we can mass-produce it now. You, the contributor, won't be forgotten. As the first person in the entire Diablo to drink a Stamina Potion, your name will be recorded in History. How about it, happy?"
"Giving me a hundred bottles of Stamina Potion would be more practical," I said, sniffing, not caring at all.
"You brat..." Fara was so angry he didn't know what to say.
"Young Wu, let me tell you something beforehand. The effect of Stamina Potion is just to stimulate the Body's Potential, which is equivalent to borrowing Vitality in advance. Don't drink too much continuously, or you'll suffer the side effects," Fara said to me before leaving, then disappeared with a Teleport.
This is just the most basic Stamina Potion. Next, they will develop intermediate, High-Level, and probably even super-level ones. Only these Potions are truly suitable for High-Level Adventurers. There's also the Mental Power Potion, and most importantly, that Remote Teleportation Magic Array. Just thinking about it, I can understand how busy Fara is. I probably won't see him for over a year.
After Fara left, Kashya also flashed away immediately. Turning back, I surveyed the thousand-meter-long huge Ravine I had created, the collapsed house, the greatly cracked Earth. After indulging myself for a while, I suddenly froze.
Huh? Could it be that the repair costs for this Loss will all fall on me alone?!!!
"Filling the pit will probably require..., and the Church's..., whimper..."
Along the way, I counted on my fingers and toes, counting again and again, feeling that it would take at least ten thousand Gold Coins to restore the entire Church to its original state. My Heart ached so much it felt like my balls hurt.
"Wu, where are you going?"
Just then, a kind and amiable Voice came from not far away. Turning back, it was the Blind Sister Superior, Akara, the Leader of the Rogue Encampment, greeting me with her Cane.
"It's Lady Akara! Ahaha..."
My smile felt a bit strained. Seeing Akara's smiling face now, I felt like my wallet had a Hole dug in it, and the Gold Coins inside were flowing out with a rustling sound.
"So that's how it is, mm-hmm, I understand," Akara said, smiling after I finished explaining.
Whimper, damn that Old Drunkard, she got off easy.
"Akara, you're not angry?"
I asked cautiously. After all, when she gave me the Key back then, she repeatedly told me to be extremely careful.
"Hehe, it's alright, it's alright. You didn't do it intentionally. Besides, didn't you promise to rebuild the Church? What do I have to be angry about? Fortunately, there hasn't been anything that required the Church recently."
I immediately breathed a sigh of relief.
"I didn't expect Fara to have already developed the Stamina Potion. This is great News!" Looking at Akara's Complexion, it was clearly an expression of Joy. As expected, she was still a reasonable Leader.
"Right, Wu, do you have Time? How about coming to see with me?" Seeing my stunned Appearance, Akara smiled.
"I know you've probably been curious about where I disappear to sometimes. How about it, interested?" After saying this, she didn't wait for my answer and took a step.
This, this, this... wasn't this clearly Temptation? After silently reciting "Curiosity killed the Cat" ninety-nine times, my Heart froze, and I resolutely followed.
Although she was blind and used a Cane, Akara's Footsteps were not slow at all. I was only stunned for a moment, and she had already walked a hundred meters away.
"Akara, where are we going?"
Along the way, I couldn't help but ask. The path she was taking me on was one I had never seen before. I had been in the Rogue Encampment for three years, and I never knew there was such a Place.
When a faint Magic Fluctuation came over, I widened my Eyes in surprise—it wasn't because I didn't understand the Camp, but clearly this Place was covered by a huge Magic Array. Without permission, you simply couldn't enter. If I hadn't mastered Soul Magic, I wouldn't have been able to detect this Magic Fluctuation at all.
What kind of Place is this? What important things are here that warrant such a large expenditure to hide the entire Zone? With this Question, I closely followed Akara's Footsteps, watching her open one Magic Barrier after another. Finally, we arrived at...
Sweat. What kind of Place is this? Walking out of the Magic Barrier, my Eyes lit up. What unfolded In Front of me was a huge Camp, just like the North District Training Camp, but the facilities inside seemed more comprehensive, covering almost all aspects of food, clothing, housing, and transportation. It was practically a small self-sufficient base.
Within my Line of Sight, some white Figures were on the Training Ground, with a White Light flashing on their Bodies from time to time.
"Could this be...?" With a look of Doubt, I looked at Akara.
"That's right, this is the Rogue Encampment's Secret Training Ground. Welcome, Wu. From now on, you will also be a member here."
