Chapter 009: The Lich Afflicted by Misfortune
"Things that have never been seen will not appear in the soul's passage merely through pure imagination!" The Lich emitted a loud grinding sound, akin to the noise of teeth gnashing, or perhaps it was a cough as if it were about to choke? After a long pause, it vehemently argued, "If things could appear at will, how could you possibly... But... by the grace of His Majesty Aidas, what you just used seems to be something that cannot exist in reality. How on earth did you use such an unfathomable thing?"
It is evident that, in comparison to his fervent thirst for knowledge, the luck of this spellcaster cannot be considered good... After wandering for two hundred years, during a journey to collect experimental materials, he unfortunately had his identity discovered by a mercenary. Even more unfortunate was that the erudite lich, engrossed in that precious discovery, failed to notice this.
It was just somewhat unexpected for the elder. As for this news, the youth did not show any significant signs of joy; he merely responded with a nonchalant sound and then shifted the topic to the battle that had taken place a few hours earlier: "Have you found out who those guys were this afternoon?"
Especially from a practical perspective, Konstantin feels that this profession resembles those described in movies, where superhumans are formed due to genetic mutations or other reasons. Therefore, even in this world filled with arcane and divine powers, such individuals are quite highly regarded
This is indeed sufficiently exciting news
The excitement in his heart allowed him to endure the soreness in his limbs as he struggled to pull himself up from the bed. He put on the pendant around his neck and gently swayed his body, trying to stretch his muscles as much as possible. After maintaining this relaxed state for a few minutes, he rested for one minute, then continued to pat himself to help dissipate the lactic acid in his muscles. This was the most effective method for relaxation after a muscle strain. Otherwise, he feared he would suffer from muscle soreness for several consecutive days. After maintaining this relaxed state for a few minutes, he rested for one minute, then continued to pat himself to help dissipate the lactic acid in his muscles. This was the most effective method for relaxation after a muscle strain. Otherwise, he feared he would suffer from muscle soreness for several consecutive days.
However, the good times did not last long... Not long after the journey of knowledge continued, his previous body accidentally exhausted its lifespan in the dark regions... Clearly, this may be attributed to the undead's rather inaccurate perception of the passage of time. Nevertheless, this talisman ultimately found its way into Constantine's hands; we can only say that the lich may have been particularly favored by the goddess Sabba in some regard.
Although the Lich's soul was once again imprisoned within a small stone, it now seemed that he could sense the boy's movements in some way. Clearly, Konstantin's actions had piqued his interest. In his memory, those who were exhausted typically remained obediently in bed, rarely engaging in erratic activity.
As the diamond-shaped red line flickered, a voice suddenly resonated in the young man's heart: "I have never seen such a flawless contract in my life! Are you a damned litigator or a legal scholar? This contract can only be described as exquisite!"
The old steward has never been good at expressing his feelings, and he did not react at all to the flattery. He simply handed over an item and then stood up: "You may need to rest for a while. Dinner time has already passed, and I will go have the chef prepare some meals now. Oh, by the way, young master, I have brought back the two weapons you purchased, and this is something you have been holding onto with the book for quite some time; it must be something quite important..."
How would I know? However, with your current standards, being able to cast about four or five tricks and two or three basic spells in a day would be quite good. Well, you currently only know one magic missile, and the rest still needs to be learned... However, a sorcerer can repeat the use of a spell throughout the day until their energy is exhausted, so even if you can only cast one first-level spell, you can still use it three or four times in a day.
Although bound by his own contract, our erudite comrade Hartdier is entirely deserving of his title. His voice is filled with reluctance, yet his explanation is sufficiently detailed. In just a few sentences, the young man has gained a general understanding of his own ability.
The lich, having learned from his mistakes, invented a spell he referred to as the Soul Channel, which, by utilizing the plundered human bodies, successfully alleviated most of his concerns.
When Constantine opened his eyes, what appeared before him was a pair of murky pupils, with flickering dim flames dancing within them, which caused the young man to let out a startled cry. However, he soon realized that these eyes belonged to someone he was familiar with—Walter was gazing at him. A faint yellow light from a nearby candle cast shadows, making every wrinkle on the old steward's face appear particularly pronounced, adding a touch of horror to the atmosphere. Yet it also illuminated the concern etched on the old man's face.
The so-called sorcerers are akin to magical beasts, possessing innate spellcasting abilities. They do not rely on spellbooks, nor do they have mentors; they learn spells solely through pure willpower. They do not need to prepare spells like the other two types of spellcasters. Thus, it is said that only those with the bloodline of dragons or descendants of deities can become sorcerers. However, this is merely a legend... In fact, when it comes to intelligence and wit, sorcerers may not be particularly exceptional, often comparable to ordinary people. Yet, they are natural arcane spellcasters—according to the research of wizards, these individuals can inherently sense the existence of the magical network and, with a bit of training, can connect to it to draw power, all without the need for a spellbook as a key.
In this world, mages, priests, and warlocks are commonly referred to as spellcasters, and they are undoubtedly one of the symbols of the most powerful forces on this continent. Throughout the long course of history, the remarkable achievements of a certain spellcaster have led to the sudden prosperity of a kingdom, and such occurrences are frequent. Particularly in the most ancient times, there are countless nations that have suddenly thrived and then suddenly declined, often behind these significant upheavals lies the presence of spellcasters
Although it cannot be definitively said that the soul of the lich can be bound, the young man is certain that he will not suffer any losses—most of the content of this contract is a replica of an employment contract he signed in his previous life, and it has been supplemented with many tactics commonly used by merchants he has encountered, including the most famous clause: "The final interpretation rights of this contract belong to the drafter." Even if this great mage can find some flaws in it, that would at least be several decades later
After confirming that the old man had left, the youth held the talisman tightly with both hands. He closed his eyes and began to murmur a series of strange words. As the sound emerged, a faint gray mist started to spread from his palms. This gray mist seemed to be a living entity, twisting in the air and producing sharp, muffled chirping sounds, reminiscent of the cries of ghosts in some supernatural tales. Moments later, when the youth opened his palms, the talisman emitted a dim, dark light once again. Unlike before, a thin diamond-shaped line flickered in the center of the stone, and the faint gray mist continued to spread from his palms. This gray mist appeared to be a living entity, twisting in the air and producing sharp, muffled chirping sounds, reminiscent of the cries of ghosts in some supernatural tales. Moments later, when the youth opened his palms, the talisman emitted a dim, dark light once again. Unlike before, a thin diamond-shaped line flickered in the center of the stone, and the deep red color made the black gemstone look like the eye of a strange beast that blinked occasionally.
Alright, be quiet. Such nagging complaints not only do not align with your identity as a Master of the Three-Leaf Bauhinia, but they even undermine your dignity as a man. Although I am now beginning to doubt whether you possess such a thing.
"Kou Gu Yue, that is indeed a skill of the otaku... How would someone like you, a good-for-nothing, understand... Alright, if you have time to engage in your boring complaints, you might as well explain to me what abilities a sorcerer actually possesses?"
Is there no way to increase the available spells
Generally speaking, cultivating a true Night Assassin is an extremely challenging task. However, what is unexpected is that both assassins were killed by you, the young master, in a direct confrontation. The rare gentleness on the old man's face widened slightly, and his voice carried a sense of relief: "Although it was due to the opponent's underestimation, it is still surprising that you could defeat two genuine Night Assassins in a head-on clash. It seems that your efforts on a daily basis have not been in vain"
The young man wore a proud smile, tinged with a hint of innocence. In reality, compared to the experiences from his recent dream, the two assassins had become trivial matters. However, amidst his pride, he did not forget to flatter the elderly man before him, as such opportunities were indeed rare.
Constantine commanded without any hesitation. The contract he seemingly wrote casually, however, meticulously listed a total of thirty-seven clauses, one of which required that the Lich must answer all questions without reservation and provide exhaustive information.
The young man showed no interest in flaunting his knowledge; he pulled over the large dressing mirror, removed his shirt, and revealed the magical array on his back, which had accompanied him for over ten years, to the newly acquired magical advisor.
Of course, I have also undergone training from the Grim Reaper, Walter... A few shadow assassins are nothing to worry about.
Hmph, the variety of spells they can use is pitifully limited. Although the most skilled sorcerers can cast dozens of spells in a single day, even including cantrips, the total number of spells they can utilize amounts to just over forty. While there are indeed many sorcerers who can comprehend some very peculiar spells, some of which a wizard may never encounter in their lifetime, they are completely unable to adapt to overly complex environments
Thus, the careless undead fell victim to the capture by the Church of Tyr. In that battle, although he independently annihilated a squad of paladins and accompanying mercenaries led by two high-ranking clergy members, he was also destroyed. Even with the existence of the phylactery, the lich would not die; however, the restraint of power meant that upon resurrection, he still suffered a loss of a portion of his strength.
The young man casually filtered out the sour grapes in the lich's tone. Although he did not show it in front of the old butler, he was actually quite pleased. A certain writer once lamented that among the classifications of spellcasters and warriors, a reincarnated materialist would most likely choose to become a magician. Konstantin was no exception. Now, having stepped over this threshold, he was naturally very excited.
Thus, the unfortunate spellcaster no longer had the opportunity to resist, ultimately being drained of the last vestiges of his defiance. The youth effortlessly acquired a wealth of knowledge from the opponent's memories, including the contract intended to be cast upon him by the lich's soul—something that was originally meant for him.
Clearly, the term "young man" pertains to the issue of dignity among spellcasters. Thus, the lich's voice took on a tone of disdain: "Not only are they unable to adapt to all environments, but they also rarely manage to learn spellcasting specialties. Therefore, in the arcane academies, most sorcerers are regarded merely as animated wand or scroll creators. What are you doing?"
Walter
He even wanted to imprint a kiss on that old face—however, this idea did not succeed. After gently moving his body, the young man discovered that all the muscles in his body still ached as if pricked by needles. He was unsure whether it was due to an injury or the consequences of overexertion. Nevertheless, the young man did not mind; this sensation instead assured him that he had already escaped from that terrifying nightmare.
What time is it now? Why is there no light?" Konstantin glanced around and realized he had returned to his room in the duke's mansion, and the sun seemed to have already sunk below the horizon. The room was illuminated only by the flickering flames of a few candles, while the fire in the fireplace served as the primary source of light. The warm glow cast a slight red hue over the space, yet it was insufficient to illuminate anything.
It is already late at night... After casting that spell, young master, you fainted, and it has now been six hours since then... The master has already invited Master Nikola and Priest Niluell to examine your condition, and he suggested that you rest quietly and reduce exposure to bright light
This can only be said to depend on individual ability. Some sorcerers can cast more spells, but at most just one or two. The lich's response was decisive, and the tone made the young man furrow his brow. Under the constraints of the soul contract, Konstantin believed that the lich had no ability to lie to him, but this uncontrollable development was a very annoying situation for him—back when he played games, he always preferred to develop all abilities, making himself a well-rounded character. Konstantin believed that the lich had no ability to lie to him, but this uncontrollable development was a very annoying situation for him—back when he played games, he always preferred to develop all abilities, making himself a well-rounded character
Then, let me send you back...
The Night Assassin? Then how could it appear during the day
Having confidence is a good thing, but one must always be cautious; arrogance is an abyss that can bury any great person or wise individual
Constantine retorted without reservation, his voice laced with boundless pride—once the soul contract is signed and takes effect, the other party cannot resist its terms. This information was also gleaned from the poor lich's mind: "I recall a philosopher once said that any thought existing in books is bound by some invisible rules. As knowledge grows, these rules also expand. For instance, in your spiritual realm, it should be possible to become whatever you wish. Yet you remain fixated on the form of a mage. If you were to transform into a hundred-armed giant or something akin to a Fey, you would have likely triumphed long ago!"
The stretching exercises to relax the muscles can help the strained muscles recover sooner, something you, a person lacking in physical activity, would not understand... The young man maintained this position for three or four times in silence, then began to move his other leg: "So what spells can I cast now?"
However, those stringent conditions render the number of individuals suitable to become spellcasters exceedingly rare. Therefore, even for the son of a duke, a high-ranking official, possessing such a talent is indeed a matter that would bring joy to anyone.
"Forget it, there are no useless spells, only useless mages." The movements of his body did not affect Constantine's thoughts. After weighing the pros and cons, the young man chose to abandon the trivial gains and losses. For him, whose knowledge system is vastly different from that of most people in this world, the abilities of a sorcerer were an unexpected surprise. However, it was not necessary to rely entirely on them—those few on the street could also be considered genuine assassins, and their ability to become invisible was indeed remarkable, yet they were still taken down by this little child due to their carelessness. Moreover, he had many other powers at his disposal that he could anticipate. While it might not be enough to summon the wind and rain in this world, living a carefree life was certainly not a problem.
Regardless of the circumstances, being inherently close to the magic network is indeed a significant advantage, isn't it? The ability to cast spells without relying on spellbooks suggests that they are even stronger than wizards, doesn't it
Well, perhaps it should be said that this is his inability to control his desire for expression
The Lord of Rainbow City, Aimeidal... By the way, you could be considered a mage, right? So, do you know what this magic circle is used for?
The unfortunate necromancer's tone was filled with an indescribable bitterness, likely not only because he had never anticipated being utterly defeated in a battle of souls by a child of merely over ten years of age, but also because he was subsequently bound by a contract so terrifyingly perfect. Moreover, it was due to the opponent's astonishing display within his proud spells—an array of diverse cultures, countless techniques, energies, incantations, and technologies, all overwhelming him in a relentless swarm, each one beyond the comprehension of a pitiful lich.
The old steward handed over the amulet that the young man had taken from the vendor, but at this moment, the black stone had completely lost its previous glossy sheen, and even its surface had become somewhat rough, making its dark exterior even less noticeable
Two dark night assassins belong to a small organization; however, this is merely a misunderstanding. Their target should be that young lady, and that group of thugs was hired by someone to create chaos
This is our classification of assassins, which does not imply that they can only appear at night... The Night Assassin refers to those who have undergone the most rigorous assassination training, mastering various weapons and infiltration and escape techniques, relying on the cover of darkness to carry out their assassinations. They are usually devoted followers of a certain evil deity and possess abilities akin to divine arts. The boy's question seemed somewhat naive, and Walter revealed a slight smile; however, the old man still provided a detailed explanation: "There is also a type of assassin known as the Performance Assassin. These individuals have not received special assassination training but excel in disguise, and they can be either nobles or commoners. They can even change their gender at will, blending in among ordinary people to the point where they are indistinguishable. Lastly, there is a type known as the Ambush Assassin, who often operate in groups, are skilled in coordinated attack strategies, and excel in the use of heavy weapons and crossbows. Of course, this is just a simple classification; depending on their beliefs and abilities, they also have their unique titles.
In the eyes of the youth, this face, which usually carries an air of authority, is truly endearing. Over the years, the only one in this world who has cared for him is the elderly man before him. Although he does not know how to express it, the sincerity within this concern is something the adult soul within the child can certainly perceive
Mr. Hartdier is a young lich who was transformed during the latter stages of the Undead War. Compared to the legendary arcane liches who have survived for thousands of years, he can actually be considered a minor figure. However, he regards himself as a learned and knowledgeable spellcaster, taking pride in this; "If you could see my laboratory, you would find nearly twenty diplomas of various kinds lined up, along with countless medals and trophies. I love knowledge, pursue power, and seek the recognition of an entire civilization; that is my proudest goal." This phrase is imprinted in the lich's memory with a sense of pride.
Of course, exceptional talent does not necessarily guarantee outstanding achievements. Without rigorous training in later stages, even divine talent can amount to nothing. Among mages, there are many who will never touch the fifth layer of the magic web in their lifetime, and among warlocks, those below the third tier are even more numerous... Not knowing whether he sensed the excitement in Konstantin's heart, the lich timely doused him with a bucket of cold water: "Moreover, warlocks have their shortcomings; they often lack rational thinking and logical analysis skills... There is a saying that warlocks are like women, mostly too emotional and not good at controlling their feelings."
There are no useless spells, only wizards who lack them... right? I must say, you little rascal always manage to surprise me. Who told you this? Clearly, this statement from the young man serves as a good admonition for all spellcasters. The lich paused for a moment, and it was a long while before he remembered to respond to the question.
The old butler's tone remained slow as ever, yet his voice carried an unusual softness, and even his calm face, lined with wrinkles, seemed to bear an unmistakable joy: "Oh, I must also congratulate you, young master; the grand sorcerer has said that you may possess the talent to become a warlock..."
Constantine took note with great care. Although the old steward had never relaxed for a moment in his training in martial skills and other areas, this was the first time he had heard the old man bring up social topics concerning the world. Perhaps this was one of the rewards for his good performance today
Are you really just a human? Or are you some kind of monster transformed from a divine aberration? I see you should be the god of trickery, no, you must be the apprentice of the dark lord who masters all lies and evil! You wretched monster!