The Ultimate Evolution

Half an hour later, Sheyan stared gloomily at the necklace being roasted and sighed .

It had been 35 minutes, yet not a single reaction came from the necklace; devoid of any distinct indication .

Bang! Gla.s.s shattered near Brother Black as he exclaimed to Sheyan .

“How long more?”

Sheyan unfolded his arms and replied .

“Only G.o.d knows . ”

The panting Brother Black continued .

“Boss, their firepower is practically comparable to a terrorist group! More crucially, I"m running out of ammo . ”

Sheyan hesitated briefly and replied .

“Let"s wait another five minutes . ”

Mogensha nodded and abruptly s.h.i.+fted his neck to dodge an incoming bullet .

“Screw this why haven"t the police arrived . ”

Sheyan smiled .

“Why would a drug lord allow the police to intervene? Who"s to say the police aren"t in cahoots with them . ”

At this moment, black fumes suddenly spiralled up from the dark-gold grade necklace into the air . Noticing the necklace seemingly being burnt, Sheyan picked it up and instantly received a nightmare realm notification .

[ Note: Smith Matrix Microchip is modified, please inquiry of status in the nightmare realm ]

“Success!” Sheyan excited called out .

Meanwhile, Brother Black suddenly retreated back with a reluctant expression .

“Boss, magazine"s empty . ”

“Let"s go . ” Sheyan bluntly instructed .

Sheyan then pushed through the door and sauntered out casually . Coincidentally, a gang member was rus.h.i.+ng in and immediately unloaded a clip of bullets . Da! Da! Da!

Using his arm to block his head, the bullets struck against his belly . However, the bullets could only split his skin but fail to pierce into his flesh before landing . Acting as though nothing major was happening, Sheyan picked up a chair and hurled it ferociously, Instantly, the gang member cried miserably as he was knocked to the ground .

The indignance on the gang member"s face clearly wrote the words "shameless b.a.s.t.a.r.d wearing a bulletproof vest" .

Thus, the duo proceeded straightforwardly in a domineering fas.h.i.+on . To prevent any complications, they avoided the elevator and rushed down the fire escape stairs . Concurrently, the hoodlums chasing them cursed and descended with the help of the elevators .

An average individual would definitely be breathless after running down eleven floors, only to find the gang members waiting sternly at the stairways exit .

Instead, to perverse superhumans like Sheyan and Mogensha, after charging out of the stairways exit, they noticed the few gang members just exiting the elevator as well . They sprinted over while panting heavily, and were shout for other comrades by the cars to hinder the invaders .

Yet how would those three extra men rival the duo? While scrambling to pull out a pistol, the first man was punched flying by Sheyan and eventually crashed onto a windscreen before pa.s.sing out on the car . Concurrently, Mogensha wrestled out a pistol from the next man and fired off at the gangsters pursuing behind . Bang! Bang! Those gangs immediately dove for cover .

Following that, Sheyan blatantly hopped onto the nearest vehicle, dragged the driver out and immediately stepped on the gas pedal .

Tire screeching sounds immediately pierced out from the car as white fumes rummaged through the air . The sounds gradually died down as the car sc.r.a.ped out a long streak of sparks, before nimbly drifting into the highway .

Of course Mogensha and Sheyan weren"t afraid . If they were willing, would it matter if they killed some hoodlums?

Still, they didn"t wish to create such a ma.s.sive commotion in the real world . Besides, an injured Mogensha here would mean an immense plunge in combat prowess . Also, the consequence of killing here was more serious . Moreover, slaughtering wouldn"t result in any utility points or milestones to accomplish . The government could close one eye and open the other for cases of few tragedies, but if the city experienced a public ma.s.sacre, they definitely couldn"t sit idle anymore .

Sheyan enjoyed the breeze of speeding along the highway . It was truly an unparalleled sensation . Meanwhile, the bored Brother Black was repeatedly dissembling his pistol and a.s.sembling it again within mere seconds . This was just a hobby of his that had evolved into a habit . If he didn"t do that every day, he would feel rather uncomfortable internally .

Very quickly, Sheyan drove into a suburban district which was roughly out of the vicinity of Silicon Valley . The traffic here was relatively spa.r.s.e while the land area seemed endless . Concrete buildings appeared to be retreating through their windows as Brother Black inquired curiously .

“Boss, where"re we headed to?”

Sheyan shrugged his shoulders and replied .

“No idea, I just feel the chances of encountering cops on this road are slimmer . ”

At this moment, two glaring headlights beamed in from behind . Glancing back, several cars were speeding in from roughly a kilometer away, rumbling in with malicious intents .

Sheyan frowned and spoke .

“Those brats are really persistent . ”

He accelerated the car while speaking, but due to the quality difference between the cars, the few cars behind gradually caught up .

Brother Black released a shot behind . Instantly, the nearest car went out of control; a friction sound pierced out as the car drifted from side to side before rolling off the main road . Its tire was indeed punctured by Brother Black .

The pursuers frantically opened fire as well but compared to Mogensha, the disparity was akin to a heavenly moat . Although they shattered the rear screen of the car, they failed to threaten the duo at all .

One of the cars sped ahead of Sheyan but soon met with a calamity . After a bullet shattered its rear screen, the driver, either shot or frightened witless, lost total control of the car . In the end, it collided into another car from behind . The gangsters of both cars were shooting frantically, but merely 10 seconds after the first car lost control, the two cars became a burning wreckage of black fumes by the side of the road .

Although Sheyan managed to widen the gap between the remaining cars, his car was ultimately lacking in technology and the hostiles caught up again . Brother Black aimed at a head sticking out from the sun roof of the pursuing car and fired off .

A bullet whizzed out from his pistol and drilled into the muzzle of the gangster"s pistol . That gangster was about to fire, but when Mogensha"s bullet collided into his own bullet inside the bullet, an eruption occurred!

A violent explosion!

Following that, Mogensha punctured the remaining wheels of the incoming cars . Despite over ten cars pursuing them, the pursuit ultimately ended in failure .

After pulling to a stop and opening the trunk of their car, Brother Black shockingly discovered a silver briefcase which contained nothing but white powder…… .

Sheyan and Mogensha exchanged glances before smiling wryly . As it turns out, they had unintentionally plundered the opposition"s goods . No wonder the other party was so relentless in their chase .

Still, the duo weren"t interested in the goods and left the briefcase in the car . When they arrived at the next city, they abandoned the car and proceeded to rent a new ride .

After some time, Sheyan gave Reef a call . It seemed Reef was working out or exchanging bodily fluids with another party, he sounded rather breathless .

“What"s up, boss . ”

Sheyan directly questioned Reef .

“How many siblings do you have, brothers and sisters included . ”

Reef answered in puzzlement .

“I"m a single child . ”

Sheyan then asked .

“Oh fine then, any cousins or anyone closely related to your family?”

“None . ” Reef still responded in confusion .

Sheyan smiled bitterly and replied .

“Fine then, you sure? Okay, one last question . If you were to lose your right of inheritance, who stands to gain the most?”

This time, Reef bluntly replied .

“My uncle…… . . Pierre . ”

“Be wary of him . ” Sheyan advised forthrightly .

“He is starting to watch us . If I"m not wrong, he probably realized you have become strangely related to two random foreigners during this period . Therefore, he is trying to exploit us to deal with you . ”

“… . no way?” Reef was appalled .

Sheyan chuckled .

“So, who knows of us flying to California and transforming our looks?”

Reef answered directly .

“My house butler, Motes . ”

Sheyan replied .

“We were entrapped and a.s.saulted by men upon landing, they were clearly there for us… . ”

Sheyan didn"t go into much details . After all, Reef was a pious individual but definitely not a fool . Once his vigilance was incited, he naturally knew what to do next . Some matters were better left in the dark, and once they were brought into the daylight, they would no longer be worth mentioning .

After a momentary silence, Reef then inquired about their current situation and agreed to a.s.sist them with the flight back home .

Roughly 24 hours later, Sheyan was back in Xiwu pier and went to visit Uncle Dasi first .

At present, Uncle Dasi was wearing a pair of wool gloves and was excitedly instructing sailors on board the Fuyuan to unload cargo .

After affirming that Uncle Dasi was doing well, Sheyan proceeded to inquire of Sanzi . Instead, Uncle Dasi sighed and shook his head; citing that Sanzi was currently depressed and indulged in an internet cafe all day .

There was only one internet cafe in Xiwu pier and its business was thriving . This was because all other compet.i.tors had been defeated into closing in this tiny pier .

After rummaging through this dim, cluttered and smoke-filled internet cafe for a good long period, Sheyan finally located Sanzi .

Sanzi was currently lying on the table in deep sleep . He appeared as though he had been staying here for several days, as his body emitted a foul sour odor . On a stool next to him were snacks and cases of instant noodles… .

Sheyan didn"t plan to wake him up . He realized the little rascal"s computer screen was still on . After clicking on the mouse, the computer awoke from sleep mode and displayed the QQ platform .

(TL: QQ is something like the main China social media platform)

Sanzi"s QQ name was extremely inelegant, called "Make Love then love simply" and his account used the default penguin as the display photo, where his online friends addressed him as "lovemess" . His latest description autograph was rather vulgar .

"Don"t say you love me with a mouth that licked another"s xx…… . "

Sheyan became speechless upon viewing that sentence .

He was now aware of the source of Sanzi"s depression – definitely failing at his first love who had speedily ran into the embrace of other males… . .

To an adolescent, the feeling of having one"s first love disappearing away was indeed akin to the sky collapsing and the earth crumbling .

Sheyan obviously wouldn"t be so nosy as to "discipline" Sanzi"s love rival, and help his brother regain that girl . That was the worst method . Falling out of love and getting hurt was an inevitable maturing process a boy will go through . Though the heartache would be immense, time would slowly heal all wounds… . .

At this moment, Sanzi"s QQ symbol nudged again .

“Are you a dumba.s.s? I already told you Xiaoli is a wh.o.r.e, yet you didn"t believe me and willingly allowed her to two-time you…”

Viewing that, Sheyan affirmed his resolution and shook his head with an awkward smile . He wanted to wake Sanzi and bring him home, but instead noticed Sanzi slumbering so soundly that his saliva was already dripping onto the table, which then dropped to the floor… . thus, Sheyan shook his head and left him be .

Upon returning home, Sheyan was at a loss; he suddenly couldn"t think of anything he was supposed to accomplish . The procedures at the Fuyuan seemed rather neat under the commands of Uncle Dasi, while Sanzi was maturing amidst the tempest called love; albeit a painful but needed experience . It seemed like he didn"t have to get involved with both of their renewed lives, and could finally settle for some personal affairs .

After idling for a while, Sheyan"s phone vibrated . This phone was specially arranged by Reef and would never display a caller ID to anyone . Thus, Sheyan"s heart was stirred as he picked it up to receive a foreign number .

“h.e.l.lo?”

“Seaman?” A gentle yet alluring voice drifted in, imprinting an image of a gentle beauty yet fostered with a firm and pristine determination .

“Zi?” Sheyan smiled slightly . “You got my number from Reef?”

Zi replied with a "mn" .

“I have some matters to discuss, face to face . ”

Sheyan understood in his heart . After this period of contemplation, she definitely had made a choice in her heart for the future ahead . This was the moment she lay all her cards on the table, thus, he directly answered .

“Alright, no worries . Where are you now?”

Zi replied indifferently .

“France, Nice . ”

Sheyan turned sullen upon hearing that and couldn"t help but sigh .

“Hais, how tragic . I was near your location when I just returned to the world . ”

Zi asked curiously .

“What tragic?”

Sheyan replied gloomily .

“If I hadn"t flew to America from London, it would be perfect now . ”

Zi revealed a faint smile on the other side of the line .

“So you"re in America now?”

Sheyan replied .

“No, I just flew back to Taiwan . ”

Zi paused and seemingly instructed someone on the other side of the line . After ten seconds, she continued .

“Hmm, then are you free now?”

Sheyan shrugged his shoulders .

“Frankly speaking, I was just daydreaming before you called . ”

Zi directly said .

“To my understanding, the earliest flight to Nice will depart from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport in two hours . Therefore, if you are free, we can have a conversation in about 12 hours . ”

“Two hours to rush over… . shouldn"t be a problem . ” Sheyan affirmed her calculations . “However, I need Reef to settle issues with verifications . ”

Zi bluntly refuted .

“No need for the ha.s.sle, just board . ”

Sheyan understood her . Following that, he proceeded to bid goodbye to Uncle Dasi and confirmed there weren"t any other matters to take care of . Stating he had a business conference to attend, he departed immediately . Uncle Dasi was naturally supportive and even hailed a cab for him to Taoyuan airport .

Due to a traffic jam, Sheyan helplessly reached Taoyuan Airport half an hour late .

Sheyan couldn"t wish for a flight delay and thus could only settle for the next earliest flight out .

However, when he exhibited his identification card to a slim attendant, the cold glint in her eyes instantly transformed into a warmth, envious and somewhat complicated expression . She then addressed him with a cordial tone .

“Mister Fang? Your flight is awaiting you . Please follow me . ”

Sheyan was stumped . Did I luckily encounter a flight delay situation?

Nevertheless, while the slim attendant led him through gates after gates of flight departure gates, Sheyan was stunned . There was only a public restroom up ahead . Could it be sudden raging hormones prompting her to bring me to a restroom and x and x first?

Instead, the attendant led him past the restroom… . . and up an escalator . After walking through a stretch of red carpet, they entered a VIP lounge that even exhibited golden handles .

When Sheyan entered, he immediately saw four air stewardess with outstanding figures and looks whispering joyously amongst each other . There were both asians and westerners amongst them, and all of them wore red cla.s.sy gowns . They looked natural and unrestrained with a sense of disciplined elegance .

The service attendant announced .

“Mister Fang is here . ”

The four stewardesses bowed uniformly to Sheyan and greeted .

“Mister Fang, the crew of The Elizabeth will serve you today . Do you wish to take a rest or depart at once?”

Sheyan was utterly astonished . Still, he maintained a standard composure and calmly replied .

“Depart at once, I"m in a rush . ”

The four air stewardess were trained elites . Two of them guided him while the other two released instructions through a telecom to others .

Sheyan was led into a private elevator and was soon transferred to a private boarding gate . Immediately, he beheld a small private jet by the side!

This private jet emanated a futuristic feel . It appeared as heavy as a commercial plane, but seemed as agile and incisive as a fighter jet . This was the most ill.u.s.trious private air carrier – the supreme Gulfstream G650!

The supreme features of this jet didn"t need to be elaborated . The interior of this Gulfstream G650 was furnished exactly like a grand mansion house, and even included a kitchen and bathroom that could be customized in position .

While boarding, all the aviation attendants bowed in two rows along the ramp, as though they were escorting the president!

“Holy s.h.i.+t . ” Sheyan couldn"t resist muttering to himself when he boarded .

“That girl, Zi, isn"t simple at all man . ”

Sitting inside this plane cabin was akin to sitting inside five-star hotel VIP lounge . The four elite stewardess smiled and followed him before to await his command . Looking at their cordial appearances, Sheyan bet they would even help him wipe his a.s.s……

Following that, before he even had the chance to take a sip of his coffee mug, Sheyan felt the private jet rolling forward .

He couldn"t help but asked .

“Aren"t we waiting for the other pa.s.sengers?”

A sweet looking air stewardess replied .

“Mister Fang, we are specially instructed to pick you up . We were originally on call for Shanghai to receive the chairman"s delegation of Tristar Corporation . Instead, the headquarters made a last minute change to escort you to London . We wish you a pleasant flight with us . ”

Sheyan couldn"t help but offer a wry smile . Such a "grand show of power" prepared for him by Zi was indeed unthinkable . Although material wealth in the real world may seem useless to contestants, but it was actually qualitatively significance .

Looking in perspective now, Sheyan was incredibly moved by the amount of power and wealth that Zi possessed .

In a mere 6 hours, this technologically advanced private jet arrived at Sheyan"s destination – Nice, Côte d"Azur International Airport .

Soon after, Sheyan met with Zi in a fictional-looking private manor .

Her dressing seemed rather ordinary and was composed of a simple and plain maroon dress, nonetheless, it failed to conceal that n.o.ble air of austerity emanating from her . Beside her, was a female with black square-shaped spectacles who was carrying some doc.u.ments .

Instead, Sheyan"s attention halted beside Zi, or accurately speaking, on the unimaginable sight of a "beast" that would cause one to think of a lion .

Without a doubt, this was an enormous Tibetan Mastiff, and a purebred one .

The mastiff was lazily lying by her side . It swept a glance at Sheyan before lazily sinking its chin into its paws .

This Tibetan Mastiff was undoubtedly not the least bit interested in Sheyan .

As Zi and Sheyan stared at each other, for some unknown reason, an indescribable barrier seemed to congeal between them . The atmosphere was weird yet not awkward, as though each was unwilling to make the first statement which would be akin to admitted defeat .

Yet at this moment, Sheyan shot a cheeky smile as he mimicked a "sandbag" carrying action . Zi immediately rolled her eyes which gave her secretary a ma.s.sive shock . Of the seven years she had worked under Zi, she hadn"t seen her with such a demeanor before .

Yet strangely, it was actually a male who caused her to do so .

Moreover, it was a sloppy young man that was slovenly dressed!

This man appeared rather mediocre and if thrown into a crowd, it would definitely be like a salt thrown into the ocean; vanis.h.i.+ng instantaneously . Individuals who discharged more power in the financial group could be found anywhere .

Yet Zi treated him favourably . Not only did she dispatch a Gulfstream jet, she even exhibited such an expression . This secretary was utterly bewildered .

Observing the seemingly casual Sheyan, Zi"s phoenix eyes revealed a hint of admiration and surprise . She reached out her hand and displayed a faint smile .

“Welcome to Darte Farm, my name is Su Lingzi . This is my secretary, Miss Anitta . ”

Sheyan shook her hand which felt incredibly delicate and fleshy . His heart fluttered as he offered a slight smile .

“I am Sheyan . Thanks for the invite, the crew of The Elizabeth was extremely marvellous . ”

Led by Miss Anitta, Sheyan and Zi soon arrived at a hillside by the side of this private garden . The green gra.s.s was like cus.h.i.+on and white fluffy clouds filled the blue sky . The majestic peaks of the french alps could be seen afar, precipitous cliffs emanating a striking grandeur . One could also gaze upon the famous blue beaches of Nice . It was truly a breath-taking scenery to behold . Sheyan loved the broadness and openness of this place . The threat of being eavesdropped by others here was nearly nonexistent .

Sheyan released a comfortable exhalation as he leaned back on a reclining couch of this hillside . He waited for Zi to speak here . Still, she calmly held a coffee mug while enjoying the wonderful scenery .

After a good long while, she finally broke the silence .

“You were daydreaming when I called you?”

Sheyan nodded and replied .

“Indeed . ”

A glint of intrigue flickered in her phoenix-like eyes .

“A s…person like you should be planning his time to the finest seconds, I"m curious, you have periods of daydreaming too?”

Sheyan glanced back with a slight discomfort in his eyes .

“Before I answer you, answer this first . At the start of your sentence, why did you suddenly change your word?”

Puchi! She finally let loose a laughter and immediately cusped her mouth before replying .

“Fine fine, since you insist I will just tell you honestly . I meant to say sc.u.m! Ever since the Avatar World, I"ve been thinking; what kind of sc.u.m is this Seaman, therefore, once I saw you, I subconsciously a.s.sociate you with that term . ”

Sheyan folded his arms and didn"t argue with her over that . Instead, he straightforwardly answered her earlier question .

“The reason I was daydreaming, was because I discovered something strange . My friends and kin, I suddenly feel awkwardly disconnected with them . It is as though they live their own lives and I can no longer a.s.similate in . ”

Zi paused briefly before addressing him .

“You are wrong, it isn"t that you are disconnected with them . Instead, after becoming a contestant, that will inevitably happen . ”

Sheyan was an extremely intelligent person . After some pondering, he immediately deciphered an underlying meaning . His face turned unsightly as he became abruptly silent . Zi continued .

“Can you a.s.similate into the life and activities of a bird? Can you reach a deeper level of conversation and interaction with a fish? Of course not . The paradigm of their lives and yours is completely different, how can you achieve those?”

Sheyan sighed deeply and responded despondently .

“Indeed, what you say is right . Ever since becoming a contestant, I"ve trodden further and further away from the path of humanity . There isn"t a vast difference between my kin and I now, but if this progresses on… . . there will come a day, that cruel reality will happen . ”

Zi leaned back in silence before speaking .

“You"ve just now discovered it, I"ve already been feeling this for a very long time . ”

The atmosphere momentarily turned solemn; it wasn"t awkward or cold, just particularly silent .

Even without the exchange of words, the emotions of each other could still be felt between them . This was truly a mystifying experience .

After a very very long time, or perhaps just a quick instance, Zi gently announced .

“I have three reasons for inviting you here . ”

Sheyan nodded .

“Go on . ”

Zi glanced at him and continued .

“Do you know why Zeus is constantly unresigned in regards to me?”

Sheyan wasn"t expecting her to raise this topic . After pondering a little, he laughed heartily .

“Of course, your unreachable charm has brought him down to your jeans . ”

Zi rolled her eyes and continued .

“I don"t wear jeans . Whatever, he definitely wants me to merge into his party, otherwise, he will definitely kill me . This is because I possess a secret, a monumental secret that involves an MT! Zeus only knows a fraction of this secret, therefore, unless necessary, he is definitely unwilling to confront me directly! Because, his wrong understanding has misled him into thinking, that I hold the might to bring him down with me!”

Sheyan quietly listened, knowing that what Zi was saying was surely related to him .

Zi glanced at Sheyan and continued .

“According to what I know, there are many forms of MT . Zeus" MT prowess originates from the earth and is a nature element MT, while Skull"s MT prowess originates from metal and equipments; a metal element MT . Apart from that, I"ve seen before a spirit element MT, whose MT prowess comes from the spirit . His HP may be similar to ordinary Growth-Hunters, but is supplemented with otherworldly defensive and survivability methods; const.i.tuting fully from his MP guard… . . ”

“However, this secret that I"ve grasped, points to the legendary strongest path of an MT!”

“Strongest…… . MT"s path?” Sheyan replied emotionally .

“Yes . ” Zi resolutely declared . “Nevertheless, it is merely a path . To become the strongest known MT, that will depend on whether the individual is capable enough to reach the end of this path . ”

Sheyan squinted his eyes at Zi and said .

“So, you intend to transmit this secret to me?”

Zi nodded .

“Indeed . ”

Then, she raised her palm and snapped her fingers . Immediately, that incredibly fierce Tibetan Mastiff slowly trudged over . Zi rubbed his head gently before retrieving an exceedingly ordinary looking bead from its collar .

“This is it . Oh right, when I slew that Wild Dog of Skull Party, I acquired a silver storyline grade item – "Bioguard Rite" . This is useless to me, I will mail it to you guys after returning to the realm . ”

Sheyan then received the bead . There was nothing special about it just that it was oddly heavy . Zi then advised seriously .

“When you possess sufficient strength, it will naturally reveal itself . ”

Sheyan attempted to store the bead in his personal storage . Instead, the nightmare realm transmitted a list of notifications .

[ You obtained an unknown object: ????? ]

[ Unable to store object in personal storage ]

[ You possess insufficient strength to obtain detailed information on this object ]

[ You possess insufficient strength . Unable to bring object into a nightmare realm or world ]

[ Please quickly promote to become a Growth-Hunter and satisfy the basic requirement of appraising this object ]

After seeing the notifications, Sheyan became aware that this object wasn"t mere junk . He spoke with a solemn tone .

“Thank you . ”

Zi offered a gentle smile .

“Helping you is akin to helping myself . The next thing is regarding that soul equipment I acquired, "Memory Pen" . To receive a perfect score for this real world mission, I will need your help . Are you free?”

Sheyan shrugged his shoulders and replied .

“Can I say no?”

Her brows slanted upwards as she replied with a smile that was not a smile .

“You can try . ”

Sheyan shamelessly withdrew at once .

“Fine, I won"t try . ”

“The third thing . ” Zi gazed into his eyes and earnestly uttered . “I"m leaving Party Ace . ”

Upon hearing that, Sheyan smiled without showing any surprise . He gazed at Zi with subtle emotions .

“You really are a prideful individual, saving this matter for the last . ”

Zi rolled her eyes and remained silent .

Sheyan pondered a little and said .

“In the last world, we accepted Demondream"s plea to save you . Hence, we rescued you based on that, you don"t owe us anything . Moreover, with your a.s.sistance, we reaped quite a handful of benefits as well which puts us on equal terms . Strictly speaking, we earned more actually . ”

Zi snorted and continued keeping her peace .

Sheyan went on .

“However, you received two green grade set equipment from us, and relinquished Illume-union to us . Is two green set equipment worth a large scale party? This is hard to determine and opinions differ between individuals . Even in a crisis, a single honorary medicine can be worth 10 dark-gold grade equipments! Hmm, hence, to you, you feel that you owe me and thus divulged this ultimate MT path secret to me . Now that both sides are even, you are finally willing to raise the matter of leaving the party?”

Zi"s elegant dress wrapped around her tightly after she sat down, and smoothly outlined her curvy b.u.t.tocks . Sheyan"s attention congregated at her Gucci heels of exquisite craftsmans.h.i.+p and superior quality, before slowly moving up her slender black stockings till her perfect thighs; which exuberated a certain allure .

Zi obviously noticed his invading gaze and immediately withdrew her legs with discomfort before fuming .

“Ahem, what"re you looking at?”

Sheyan chucked and scoffed in his heart; daring to show off, does this daddy dare not look?

He then said .

“You wish to leave the party? Possible, but not right now . You can do it back in the realm . ”

Zi was evidently startled .

“You agreed?”

Sheyan earnestly replied .

“Of course . ”

The puzzled Zi exhibited some doubt in her phoenix eyes .

“You"re not asking for a reason?”

Sheyan laughed loudly .

“Why ask when I already know the reason . ”

Zi pursed her lips and seemed rather unconvinced .

“Fine then . ”

Sheyan folded his arms and lazily leaned back before saying .

“So, should we discuss about the specifics of your soul equipment? Hmm, with your power yet incapable of accomplis.h.i.+ng the mission, I"m guessing it pertains to a restriction in manpower or completion quant.i.ty… . oh, could it be you need a tanker?”

Zi glanced at Sheyan with slight surprise and whispered several words into her phone . Soon after, Miss Anitta strolled over with a doc.u.ment and left after casting a few curious glances at Sheyan .

Zi picked up the doc.u.ment and said .

“The soul equipment issued a relatively easy mission . Instead, the headache lies in finding the memories of this pen . I"ve already found some clues and after a series of investigations, can confirm that the previous owner of this pen is a Mister Sean Heim from Devon . He was a formal royal navy officer and after an incident in India where his spine was pierced by a stray bullet, he retired with a generous compensation of 87,000 pounds . An ordinary story but more importantly, he is still living blissfully . ”

Sheyan asked in astonishment .

“How"s that possible?”

A Soul Equipment was an inheritance, which meant that the owner should be dead . Otherwise, why would there be grievances or regrets attached to it? Since one perishes in the nightmare realm, then the main body would officially perish as well in the real world… . this was the law of the realm . ”

Yet such an inconceivable thing had happened .

A living owner of a Soul Equipment!

“Could it be?” Sheyan suddenly developed a incomparably shocking notion, one that left him thoroughly stunned . He was about to sip on his coffee mug but due to the shock, forgot to do so and poured the scalding coffee onto himself instead . Still, he felt… . . completely numbed .

Bear this in mind, Sheyan was normally a composed individual, being able to keep his cool and maintain his countenance even in the face of two MT-led parties . Yet this notion shook him entirely .

Noticing his absent-mindedness, Zi finally smiled . She felt rather delighted to witness a rare moment of Sheyan"s shock, prompting her to reveal an exceedingly rare smile . Even her eyes joined in and revealed an unmatched enchantment that could move one"s soul .

From afar, Miss Anitta was astounded . This was her first time seeing Zi smile so delightedly before .

Sheyan ignored his coffee-drenched body and frowned .

“The significance of this is too immense . No, tell me his address, I must verify this for myself . ”

One could deduce a certain conceitedness in her smile as Zi replied .

“No need for that, I have another piece of information . ”

At this moment, Sheyan noticed her smile and felt a sudden surge of itchiness, still he kept his cool and spoke .

“Do tell . ”

“This happened back when I just got acquainted with Zeus . While he was conversing with Sable, I unintentionally overhead a discussion about an Oscar award recipient which was unexpectedly from a movie I hadn"t heard of before . Feeling curious, I inquired about some matters and immediately discovered, although their lives resembled ours in this real world, there were many differing aspects . ”

Zi"s eyes revealed reminiscent expression as she continued .

“In their world, the winner of World War 2 was America and the allies . In their world, America experienced her first black president . In their world, Hong Kong had been completely a.s.similated into China . In their world, the Olympics is a quadrennial event . In their world, the author of the best selling novel is not Juantu… . . ”

Sheyan paused silently for a brief while and asked .

“Anything else?”

“There is . ” Zi uttered . “Demondream also told me that her world history was also strangely different . In the world she lived in, the history differs from both our world"s history and Zeus"s world history… . . ”

Following a momentary silence, Sheyan squinted his eyes and said .

“I understand now, Zi . Since that"s the case, many things now add up . I must carefully dissect all these information, so, how shall we go about this "Memory Pen" affair?”

Zi smiled and answer .

“Yes, now you understand . The "Memory Pen" is probably left behind by someone from a parallel universe . The Sean Heim from that parallel universe became a contestant but died unfortunately . Hence, our world"s Sean Heim is still alive and well; a mere mortal . ”

Sheyan realized something .

“This means that in another parallel universe, there is another me?”

Zi shook her head in response .

“No . According to my investigations, anyone who possess an extremely formidable innate is unique . Or do you think your innate ability is weak?”

Sheyan offered a wry smile and shook his head .

“Alright, how do we proceed with this Soul Equipment mission?”

Zi nodded and explained .

“According to my a.n.a.lysis, since I couldn"t find the original Sean Heim, I could only activate the grievances stored in this soul equipment with the Sean Heim of this world . Don"t look at me with that stupid look, I just needed some blood not a human"s life . Next, I may experience a trial which is limited to only one a.s.sistant . Oh, you are the only MT I can find now, although weak, I have no choice but to make do . ”

“Oi oi oi . ” Sheyan answered dejectedly . “Your last phrase sounds wrong, is this the correct att.i.tude of a pleader?”

Zi nonchalantly replied .

“Aren"t you a basic realm contestant?”

This word pressed on Sheyan"s soft spot as he chided with annoyance .

“Say that again, and I swear I will become more of a hindrance than a help for your mission . ”

Zi smiled once again and waved her hand . Several attendants from afar marched in and started serving a sumptuous dinner meal……

The following matters proceeded as normal . Sheyan and Zi was transported into a hallucinatory world conjured by the soul equipment, and pa.s.sed the trial without expending much effort .

Furthermore, Sheyan also learned about some details regarding Zi during this period; like how she was a board director of the world renowned E . S Financial Group who possessed incredibly unbelievable wealth and power .

Next, Sheyan stayed inside this villa and continued tempering his body . He unexpectedly learned of a way to train his intelligence attribute and spirit, that wasn"t inferior at all to the realm . Hence, he wasn"t in a rush to return back to Taiwan, and decided to strengthen his two weakest attributes .

Finally, Sheyan received a notification and returned to the nightmare realm .

Party Ace congregated once again . Just when Sheyan received Zi"s application to leave the party, Brother Black strolled over and feigned a relaxed composure while revealing to the other three .

“Boss, I"m afraid I won"t be fighting alongside you in the next world . ”

Puzzled, Sheyan asked .

“Why not?”

Instead, Reef stammered with a deep voice .

“Could it be you……”

Brother Black squeezed out a smile which displayed his nervousness .

“Yes, I"ve made my decision . It is time to breakthrough as a Growth-Hunter . ”

Sheyan asked with concern .

“Are you confident?”

Mogensha nodded and replied .

“Yes, after returning this time, my innate ability has upgraded again . ”

“Very well . ” Sheyan looked at Mogensha and advised . “Don"t force it, try again if you can"t make it, furthermore……I believe, acc.u.mulating more strength is better . A tower grows only with a solid foundation . ”

Brother Black issued a bleak smile and replied .

“Boss, ever since following you, my prowess have matured rapidly, but… . . what I worry most is being consumed by my own growth; like a boulder attached to my own feet . ”

Hearing his words, Sheyan couldn"t help but shake his head and smile . He then nodded .

“Anything you need, all the party"s resources can be channeled to you . ”

“No need . ” Brother Black revealed a peculiar expression .

“After returning this time, I visited my hometown which I hadn"t seen for a long while . Suddenly, I felt that I"ve always been trying to run ever since entering the realm . For my Growth-Hunter boundary test this time, it is time I find the nature I"ve lost in my life . ”

As Mogensha spoke, he removed his equipments, one by one, from his body . The Golden AK, the dark-gold grade pants, the Sparta long spear, the SN-9 Wasp…… . . eventually, he stripped till his s.h.i.+ny black muscles were revealed fully, and unexpectedly handed all his equipments to Sheyan!!

This meant that Mogensha wanted to make a pure breakthrough of the Growth-Hunter boundary test! The reason he placed all his equipments with Sheyan, was firstly, because he trusted in Sheyan, but more importantly, he could retrieve his equipments from his personal storage or party storage once he regretted .

Instead, by placing everything with Sheyan, he utterly severed all contingencies for himself once stepping into the nightmare world for Growth-Hunter test . With a determination of succeed or die, he wanted to squeeze out all his potential!

Upon viewing Mogensha"s unwavering resolution and wild imposing spirit, a glint flickered in both the experienced Reef and Zi"s eyes . Reef took a deep breath and lamented inwardly .

“If only I could possess such determination then… . . ”

After watching Brother Black leave the personal room, Sheyan patted Reef"s shoulder and proceeded to instruct Zi .

“Issue your application, you can leave the party . ”

There were three methods for Zi to leave Party Ace . A forceful departure, being kicked by the party leader, or a peaceful resolution initiated by the nightmare realm . Not only would the former two incur wastage of utility points and achievement points, it would deduct party experience as well . With Party Ace"s grand prestige, a peaceful resolution would only require some utility points from both sides .

Zi took a deep stare into Sheyan"s eyes and asked with gentle fury .

“You aren"t even gonna try retaining me?”

She then issued her application . After Sheyan agreed, he sighed .

“What"s mine, will eventually return . What"s not mine, will eventually leave . ”

Her face immediately blushed as she fiercely turned to leave .

Sheyan understood her skin was thin and his words offended her, thus, he hastily chased up . He followed behind her quick footsteps . After a long while, she finally turned and icily questioned .

“What do you want?”

Sheyan offered a faint smile and said .

“I know why Zeus couldn"t contain you . ”

Zi"s expression darkened as she naturally felt embarra.s.sed . Still, she was somewhat curious as well and developed a certain antic.i.p.ation for his following words . Since they were alone, she decided to give him a chance .

She quietly glared at Sheyan . It wasn"t a vicious glare, but a cool and elegant one .

Instead, Sheyan didn"t say anything but produced an object .

“Since you"ve left the party, you won"t be inheriting our party"s world progress . Therefore, you should be able to utilize this . ”

Zi was slightly stunned but Sheyan grabbed her hand and stuffed a book in .

“What"s this?” Zi asked suspiciously . “Journal Log of Bernard Fokke?”

Sheyan nodded and explained .

“If you intend to a.s.semble the full "Ndipaya Set", then explore this world . ”

Zi then recited a phrase out . “Hidden world: Resident Evil Origins Chapter . ”

Her face flushed with surprise as she said . “I initially believed that set was acquired from slaying others or a trade . Yet on hindsight, you actually obtained it from this hidden world . ”

Sheyan nodded and replied casually .

“Naturally . ”

Her expression turned queer and after a brief while she uttered .

“You… . you"re a freak!”

What she was implying, was naturally Sheyan, being a contestant, but still being able to explore an Awakener level world and still reaping a bountiful harvest!

Sheyan smiled as he held her hand calmly, without any intent to let go as time seemingly came to a halt .

For a brilliant and overbearing female like Zi, wanting to blatantly subdue her into a one-night-stand was impossible . Only by chiselling, one step at a time . Firstly, one mustn"t disgust her . Secondly, one must be stronger and more domineering in certain aspects to let her be convinced and crave . By pressing in, step by step, Sheyan would definitely change her heart one day .

After some time, she suddenly realized her hand was being rudely occupied by Sheyan and immediately raged out .

“Let go . ”

Although she said that, her hand remained gentle and her voice indicated a non-furious form of annoyance . Sheyan directly released her hand and said .

“If you entered the hidden world while being in our party, you would have faced the aftermath of our conclusion . In that respect, I will be less concerned as the danger will have lessened considerably . With your might, it shouldn"t be a problem . However, the possibility of acquiring the full set would become rather low . ”

Zi snorted but could discern Sheyan"s subtle concern . Sheyan then continued .

“Now that you"ve left the party, you will inevitably encounter a whole new "Resident Evil Origins" world . That world will definitely have some disparity between what we gone through, but the grand state of affairs should be consistent… . ”

Following that, Sheyan divulged out his experiences as Zi slowly listened . Eventually, Sheyan ended .

“…therefore, you must be cautious and prudent . Just be careful . ”

Zi couldn"t resist feeling rather moved, where Sheyan very smoothly seized her hands again and said .

“I"m still left with 70,000 utility points, the consumption rate for utility points in a hidden world is tremendous . You should take some . ”

She blushed again and struggled for a while before calming down and whispering .

“Let go . ”

According to her temperament, she would"ve berated the other party long ago . Instead, her current relations.h.i.+p with Sheyan was rather ambiguous, particularly inside the underground laboratory of the Jura.s.sic Park World . Back then, she was in despair where the opportunistic Sheyan stole a kiss . The two were locked in at first base intimacy . Of course, his tiny little movements now could easily break through Zi"s defenses .

He once again released her hand and sincerely said .

“Be careful, now that I"m not there with you, you must rely on your own wits . ”

His words were comfortably warm to her heart, yet her prideful self issued a discomfort . She glared at Sheyan . n.o.body else could say those words to her but only Sheyan could!

At this moment, she remembered the previous world . His gentle conduct yet full of cards in his hands, tiding through hurdles with ease . When facing this man, he was indeed qualified .

Reflecting on that, Sheyan abruptly asked something that had been engraved in her heart for a long time .

“Our final situation in the previous world was extremely perilous . During then, I felt that you were giving your utmost . But if an unexpected mishap were to occur, could you still deal with it?”

“Yes!” Sheyan bluntly declared .

Her eyes flashed with craftiness as she shook her head .

“I don"t believe . ”

Sheyan smiled faintly as he took a step forward, purposely positioning himself extremely close to Zi that with one additional move, she would be trapped in his embrace . Her face flushed with redness as she attempted to shove him away and chide him . Instead, Sheyan"s mouth was already beside her precious little ear .

“According to my deduction then, there was an incredibly minute probability of Skull and Zeus acting in tandem; one pressuring you from the front and the other pincering from the back, with the help of the teleportation portal . The final ace I left, was to deal with them . ”

Upon hearing this, Zi momentarily forgot about his present impudent bearing . She asked curiously .

“Your final ace? And what"s that?”

(Beginning of volume 11!!)

Sheyan whispered lightly into Zi"s ear upon hearing her question .

“My final ace is a secret, you absolutely cannot say it out . ”

Zi scoffed .

“Don"t tell me if you don"t trust me then . ”

Although she said that casually, her countenance suggested a devastating calamity if Sheyan didn"t divulge .

Under such circ.u.mstances, he earnestly answered .

“My final ace is being able to breakthrough the 50 point boundary and becoming a Reserve-duty Growth-Hunter anytime . However, that will utterly ruin my current plans . Once I transcend as a Reserve-duty Growth-Hunter, I dare not say I can defeat them both, but I can definitely delay them . ”

As Sheyan"s warm breath brushed against her ear, Zi felt an unexplainable feebleness . She blushed once again from such a foreign, unprecedented sensation and hastily retreated several steps back with a complicated expression . Then, she turned to leave, but after walking a few steps, she turned around and spoke with hesitation .

“You take care too . ”

Before they separated, Sheyan also gifted her the socket gem – "Lionheart" . He then reunited back with Reef .

Next, Sheyan inspected the properties of his dark-gold grade necklace . That unknown ability still indicated "? ? ? ?", however, there were now new requirements of awaken it . To awaken this active ability, Sheyan needed to plunder three powerful souls as an offering .

Moreover, a special instruction revealed minor differences in awakened ability based on the type of plundered souls . If one plundered the soul of a long-range/close combatant, the awakened ability will lean towards close combat . If one plundered the soul of a mage type, the awakened ability will lean towards a mage type ability . Hence, it was best to plunder souls of similar type creatures .

In addition to that, a contestant"s soul was similarly equated as a powerful soul . Therefore, Sheyan reckoned that if he plundered the soul of a contestant, the ability would pertain towards contestant warfare .

At this moment, Reef asked .

“Boss, haven"t you noticed we have yet to receive the notification of our next world?”

Sheyan nodded and replied .

“Based on my conjecture, the realm should be evaluating me as a Reserve-duty Growth-Hunter now . Adding you, a Growth-Hunter, and only two members in our party, the difficulty of our next world should be comparatively easy . Therefore, with the delay in notifying us of the next world, it is highly likely due to the world difficulty being easy . ”

Reef nodded and inquired .

“Why did you let Zi go? And didn"t even attempt to retain her?”

Sheyan chortled and replied .

“Because she will return . You probably told her about our present situation right?”

Reef asked curiously .

“How did you know?”

Sheyan pensively replied .

“A haughty woman like her possesses three reasons for leaving the party . First, she probably wishes to advance to the Awakener realm . Still, she lacks confidence and does not wish to affect us . By leaving the party, her failure will go unnoticed by us . ”

“Second, she knows I"ve reached the threshold of advancing as a Growth-Hunter, needing merely three attribute points to attain my goal . If she joins us, our mission difficulty would undoubtedly increase . By leaving, she hopes that we can breeze through the next world, letting me acquire three attribute points with ease before charging to the realms of Growth-Hunter at optimum state . ”

“Third, I"m guessing she owes a debt to someone . She feels that she cannot contribute much to the party now and isn"t willing to ask for a.s.sistance . Thus, she wishes to repay her debt on her own, so don"t worry, she will naturally return after settling her affairs . ”

Reef was enlightened and uttered .

“I see, also boss, our harvest is pretty bountiful this time, how should we settle this?”

Sheyan browsed through the stock-take, and realized the party storage was indeed abundant .

"+7 Chieftain"s Hobby", "Voldemort"s Allure", "Bioguard Rite", "Aberration Horcrux"… . . apart from those, the items were like glittering jewels that delighted the eye .

"Pandora"s Egg", "High-energy Crystal x1", "Soul Crystals", "A" rank raw material "Shadowdrill Claw" .

If the trio did not learn the "Flesh Explosion" ability, Sheyan believed their reserves would be even wealthier .

Of this array, Zi undoubtedly left behind the "Bioguard Rite" for Brother Black . Reef and Sheyan possessed the "Life-link" ability and didn"t care much for that equipment . Only the risky marksman, Brother Black, would require it to toy with his rivals .

Furthermore, for the sake of warming Zi"s lonely heart, Sheyan had given away most of his utility points . Thus, he decided to earn some back now .

Excluding him, Mogensha succeeded in enhancing his dark-gold grade pants earlier . In contrast, Reef needed to satisfy the prerequisite advance ability "Claw Weapon Mastery" for his "Steelclaw" weapon .

Although a "Claw Weapon Mastery" scroll wasn"t hard to learn, it was rather uncommon . Since returning to the realm, Reef failed to locate any seller and once again attempted to tour around .

Meanwhile, Sheyan established a new stall in the marketplace with an extravagant name .

Ma.s.sive Bleed Out!

He primarily promoted the "+7 Chieftain"s Hobby", "Voldemort"s Allure", "Aberrant Horcrux" and the rank "A" raw material, "Shadowdrill Claw" .

One didn"t need to mention the exorbitant value of those articles . Anyone who could purchase them would definitely bleed out . Non-buyers would spread the news and crowd around the stall to look, which would naturally generate hype .

Following that, Sheyan also displayed two "Deathmarsh Greatcroc Soul (horcrux)" .

Although the "Aberrant Horcrux" and the rank "A" raw material may not find capable buyers, the two lower grade horcrux were definite hot-sellers .

Moments later, Sheyan first sold of a set of arrows he obtained in the Storm Trooper World, which was sold to a bow-wielding contestant for 5,000 utility points . Following that, he sold off one "Deathmarsh Greatcroc Soul" for 35,000 utility points .

Meanwhile, Reef managed to find a stall selling a "Claw Weapon Mastery" scroll . As it turns out, this scroll was obtained after slaying a contestant, so Reef directly reached level 5 from learning it . It was truly of exceptional quality .

The seller was a Growth-Hunter that was about to venture into a dangerous world and urgently required battle enhancing items . Thus, after a long negotiation, Reef agreed to acquire the scroll in exchange for 30,000 utility points, a "Deathmarsh Greatcroc Soul", Magic Oilbalm (gained in the Caribbea Sea world and can be used 17 times), and a single "Honorary medicine" .

n.o.body could tell who gained or loss from this transaction . Besides, claw weapon types were rather uncommon . Meeting a patient buyer and purchasing it for 5-6 times the valuation was also possible . For a seller in urgent need, this was undoubtedly a good deal .

Reef"s combat prowess was upgraded substantially after learning the "lvl 5 Claw Weapon Mastery" ability, earning a 10% damage boost when using claw type weapons and increasing blood loss damages by 33% . Apart from that, his blocking chance was raised by 3% .

Nonetheless, learning an advanced mastery ability burnt his pockets as well . Reef originally desired to enhance his s.h.i.+eld and new weapon to +3 . Yet when he saw the enhancing fee, he was utterly flabbergasted . That was probably because the weapon was counted as extremely rare . Without the support from the party, an awkward situation of being able to procure a weapon but not capable of employing it would"ve occurred .

At this moment, nearing the timely entry into a nightmare world, Sheyan and Reef finally received the delayed nightmare realm notification .

[ Present military rank: Major ]

[ Silver Prestige Party: Party Ace ]

[ Present party members: 1 Growth-Hunter, 1 contestant ]

[ Determined next venturing world: Lord of the Rings ]

[ Progress of world is hosted by party leader no . 1018 and party members . Main features will be retained or subst.i.tuted equally ]

[ After calculating, main mission difficulty: B+ ]

Upon realizing it was the Lord of the Rings world, both Sheyan and Reef exhibited rather odd expressions . Especially Reef, who glanced at Sheyan with a look of amus.e.m.e.nt as he blurted out .

“Luckily she left . ”

Sheyan ignored Reef"s joke and mused after a while .

“Our main mission difficulty is "B+" but why was the notification delayed?”

Reef suggested .

“Maybe the realm thinks we possess an overwhelming advantage to this world? Hence, the late notification is to prevent us from any preparations?”

Sheyan nodded .

“That is quite likely, still remember the arrangements we left before departing the world? To hide away those precious metals like mithril, and allow Melody to deliver them to an elder in Rivendell to elevate her status amongst the elves . Also, with her sacred ident.i.ty as a twilight elf… . . hoh, looks like she did an exceptional job . ”

Reef"s eyes instantly brightened .

“That"s simply wonderful, boss . ”

Sheyan smiled and nodded .

“Indeed, if that is really true, our journey in the Lord of the Rings this time, will be fairly relaxed and pleasant . However………it is hard to upgrade my "Black Art Mix Technique" anymore, and based on the current state of affairs, Saruman is definitely still an insurmountable and unchallengeable existence . ”

Sheyan"s mood was far from calm upon realizing his next venture was the Lord of the Rings world .

How could he forget the innocent and naive maiden Melody? How could he forget the colossus Ocean-freak Moria and its scene of epic tragedy .

That was the first time since entering the nightmare realm he had fallen into such perilous state, being oppressed by such overwhelming difficulty and terrors all around!

Unwilling to succ.u.mb to death, Sheyan surpa.s.sed his potential and acc.u.mulated sufficient experience in the world . Only with such foundations, did he manage to exploit the "Resident Evil Origins" world and acquire the ability of "Pestilence Monarch"… .

As time trickled away, Sheyan and Reef prepared to enter the world transportation portals .

While observing the rippling undulations of the radiating portal, many thoughts flooded Sheyan"s mind . Has Zi entered that nightmare world? How are Mogensha"s preparations going? Which world is the casualty inflicted Glory Party venturing into…… . .

While lost in his thoughts, Reef finally tugged him back to reality . The transportation portals had initiated for a long while, and the duo hastily trudged into the mid blue radiance of the portal .

[ Commencing entry into nightmare world… . ]

[ Initializing data… . . ]

[ Matching… . . ]

[ World selected . Initializing characters and world a.s.similation… . ]

[ World begins…… . ]

[ Valinor, the undying lands, beckon the elves to return ]

[ The hesitation of a twilight elf ]

[ Sauron"s might encroaches towards Middle-earth ]

[ Magical rings enticing the souls of all ]

[ The peace in imminent danger as weakness abounds ]

[ Righteousness or evil ]

[ Protection or destruction! ]

[ It is your decision…]

“Ahh what the h.e.l.l, what"s with this treatment even in this low difficulty?”

Sheyan and Reef awoke with a grievance .

They soon discovered, they were pathetically tied to a cross .

The cross was crudely chopped out with a hatchet and splinters p.r.i.c.ked against Sheyan"s back . Any slight frictional movement released a throbbing pain . This cross was c.u.mbersome, enduring and issued a distinct impression of filthiness .

The surface of the cross was smeared with dried stains of black or red, and it emitted a foul smelling stench; the stench of an acc.u.mulation of blood, inducing a nauseating sensation to all .

Judging from its characteristics, Sheyan quickly determined that this wasn"t link to any religious faction . After all, christians would never profane their sacred object .

In truth, the first invention of the cross was to nail sinners to death…… .

Reef wasn"t spared of this pathetic fate and his cross seemed to be much heavier .

He was in a far more miserable state . A crude wooden bowl was placed atop a rock right beneath him, which was br.i.m.m.i.n.g with maggot infested organs…the stench fumigated into Reef"s nose . It was no wonder he looked incredibly vexxed .

Behind Reef, was a wooden fence that was crafted in a style that was familiar to Sheyan .

Crude wooden fences surrounded them with gruff branches const.i.tuting as a roof . This was essentially a s.p.a.cious wooden canopy . The crude craftsmans.h.i.+p of this wooden canopy indeed left a distinct impression on viewers .

By their sides, were five other identical cross . Two were empty while three had individuals tied to them .

Sheyan noticed that those three individuals were still unconscious while Reef and himself had awoken first . This was probably related to one"s physique . Without a doubt, this indicated that Reef"s resistive capabilities led his own by quite a distance .

Reef angrily fumed when he noticed Sheyan waking .

“What a surprise from the realm! An unprecedented surprise, I"ve never experienced such a c.r.a.ppy beginning before . ”

Sheyan couldn"t help but chuckle .

“Oh hoh, G.o.d"s servant shouldn"t say such filthy words . ”

Reef angrily scoffed .

“Boss, our priority now is escaping this terrible place . Ahhhh! I"ve had enough of this stench . Ahhhh how infuriating!”

Sheyan attempted to wrestle free but quickly realized he couldn"t . After a careful examination, he realized the vines and branches used to constrict him weren"t special at all . Evidently, they were being restricted by the realm and the official storyline hadn"t yet commenced .

Sadly, the nauseous Reef could only accept the harsh reality…and endure in despair .

“My buddy, do you still remember events the previous time we were here?” Sheyan asked Reef .

Reef raised his brows and replied .

“Being pursued, then imprisoned, and pursued again . ”

Sheyan sighed .

“I"m afraid our predicament is worse this time . Lower your head and look at that bowl in front of you . ”

“Yes I"ve been looking at this s.h.i.+t for the longest time . ” Reef sulked . “The next world we enter, do remind me to bring a bottle of cologne in my personal storage . ”

Sheyan laughed and replied .

“That s.h.i.+t isn"t the main point but its intended use . Think about it, if a knife were to carve down from your chest, that bowl is in a perfect spot to collect your dripping organs . Every droplet of your steamy blood juice will leak into that bowl, preventing any wastage . ”

“So our worse treatment has been downgraded from being a prisoner, to a mere prey for the slaughter?” Reef muttered with displeasure . “But whatever, even if those fools releases me at once and kneel for forgiveness, I will never cancel my notion of killing . ”

“Gentlemen, your discussion has granted me great insights . ”

All of a sudden, a calm voice drifted in . The person who spoke was another individual tied to a cross . He was wearing black frame spectacles and had a moustache shaped like "八" . He seemed rather cultured .

“However, I don"t get who exactly intends to treat us as food?”

“Orcs . ” Sheyan confirmed . “Orcs from the Misty Mountains . ”

In this instant, a woman"s voice interrupted . She sounded rather gloomy and carried a hint of disdain . Her countenance was gloomy, pale and sinister looking, like a witch from the medieval age . She was tied to a cross nearest to the exit of the wooden canopy .

“How do you know?”

Sheyan glanced at her and chuckled .

“Do you see that heap of wheat there? To the orcs, that wheat known as Shamisi will turn into an exceptional delicacy, after rotting for half a day on moist ground . In terms of orc cuisine, that is akin to our black pepper sauce on steak . ”

Reef immediately protested sternly .

“d.a.m.ned, you"ve succeeded in fuelling my intention to fast from beef for a year . ”

At this moment, the last individual tied to a cross woke up . After surveying his surroundings, he directly yelled out with a hoa.r.s.e voice .

“Fool of a took! This the lair of mad wraiths, yea I must be dreaming . A fierce slap to me and I shall awake with a yawn in Mister Wright"s carriage . A light smack of my horse whip, a little later all, and the majestic Rivendell we reach!”

Very evidently, this was a storyline character . Yet even though the storyline character had woken up, the contestants found themselves still constricted to the cross .

Ten seconds later, a diabolical freak cautiously crept in . As it tiptoed in, it glanced around anxiously as though it was a little thief . It had some human features but its skin was contaminated with warts . A fresh wound could be seen on its shoulder where black blood trickled down its light grey skin . The way it hobbled in indicated that this orc wasn"t very strong .

The freak approached Reef and stealthily took a glance outside . Then, it stretched forth its hand towards Reef…… . . no, the bowl in front of him and begun wolfing down the decomposing, maggot-infestation organs .

This orc"s conduct immediately thickened the foul stench of rot in the air .

Reef"s expression instantly turned ashen as he summoned his humongous willpower to suppress the urge of vomiting .

Soon after, a crowd of orcs came shoving in . They roared abuses at the food thief and begun beating him up . After a vicious round of beating, they glared maliciously at the storyline character .

By now, the storyline character was releasing shrilling screams . Under the pressure of immense fear, n.o.body could hear what he was yelling .

The orcs then proceeded to light a bonfire in the wooden canopy . Then, they carried a shockingly ma.s.sive pot that was filled with water .

Indeed, like what Sheyan mentioned, they threw the shasimi seasoning wheat into the pan, before issuing evil sneers while salivating as they approached the storyline character .

At this point, Reef and Sheyan finally received a nightmare imprint notification .

[ Do you wish to exchange 2 achievement points to regain your freedom? ]

[ If storyline character Stableboy Pombo is slain, you will find it hard to attain the trust and become a member of Wright"s Caravan . As a member, you will be granted the qualifications to enter freely into Rivendell ]

Yet Sheyan and Reef bluntly selected "No"!

Who were they kidding . Even without being related to Maiden Melody, their appearances were muddled with the elf captives from Rivendell . This brat was probably freed after Melody"s return .

Though arrogant in nature, the elves were upright . Therefore, wanting to enter Rivendell wouldn"t be an issue, what would they waste two precious achievement points to do so .

Following that, that gloomy witch-like woman glared over and shouted with a commanding tone .

“Quick save him!”

Sheyan ignored her . Reef looked as if he wanted to point a middle finger but was hindered by the vines . Hence, he bluntly scolded .

“Shut up . ”

Her face turned gloomier but regarding such temperamental individuals, Sheyan didn"t feel a single threat and didn"t place her to heart .

At this stage, he had a rough understanding of the basic sequence of the realm . Unless it was in a battlefield, it was best not to kill anyone recklessly . Nevertheless, if one were to spontaneously seek death, then Sheyan wouldn"t mind satisfying that desire .

Observing Sheyan"s and Reef"s unmoving state, that cultured male also refrained from saving . Meanwhile, the lips of that gloomy female moved as though she was reciting a curse . Still, she chose not to take action and remained as a spectator .

Thus… . stable boy Pombo was slain miserably by the orcs . Even his remains was profaned .

After Pombo died, "kacha" sounds erupted from Reef"s cross and finally split into wooden fragments .

Indeed, Reef had regained his mobility! Upon landing, a terrifying enormous silver claw pierced out from his right arm!

The nearest orc to Reef roared furiously and swung its stone hatchet down ferociously .

Reef, however, didn"t opt to brandish his s.h.i.+eld but merely blocked with his new silver storyline weapon, "Steelclaw", and easily parried the stone hatchet away .

Amidst the sparks, Reef cleaved unceasingly as blood spurted out alongside the bitter howls of the orc .

Meanwhile, Sheyan also escaped the fetters of the vines and inquired with amazement in the party channel .

“Why aren"t you employing your s.h.i.+eld…… . what new move is that?”

Reef laughed delightedly .

“A characteristic of "Claw Weapon Mastery", granting me this special ability to employ my claw with both hands to gain additional 30% damage . Moreover, I can swap to my s.h.i.+eld anytime . Watching how you slash around with your saber, I did get rather envious . ”

Sheyan shrugged his shoulders .

“Indeed, every MT would secretly possess a heart to be a damage dealer . Try and restrain yourself man, oh right, where"s your old Centauri lightsaber?”

Reef answered .

“AK took it while you and Zi were in your own world . He wanted to upgrade his dark-gold grade "Versace Boa Pants" and purchase an addon . So his hands were rather tight . ”

In this instant, another orc hurled a wooden spear towards Reef . Reef blocked and crashed backwards from that wooden spear . However, he immediately released a "Shattering Cardiac Roar" to the sky!

After advancing to become a Growth-Hunter, the might of his "Shattering Cardiac Roar" became extremely effective on the orcs . The surrounding orcs staggered around as their movement speed plunged greatly .

Following that, Reef roared and continued cleaving out streaks of blood with "Steelclaw" .

As Sheyan observed Reef, he felt that Reef was somewhat different…as though a humble knight was gradually transforming into a valiant siege knight . Both of them were the backbone of Party Ace, but as compared to the pious and stern knight he was in the past, this knew valiant siege knight seemed rather unbridled, feisty and ardent .

“Probably Mogensha"s boldness to challenge the Growth-Hunter realm naked got to his head . ” Sheyan quickly captured Reef"s change . “Or perhaps, the education and culture he grew up with had all along suppressed his true nature, and now…his personality is truly awakening . ”

All of a sudden, an orc shaman appeared at the doorway of the wooden canopy with a skull staff .

His body oozed with dark energy and seemed like a mini boss type of character . The skull staff appeared crude, just a wooden pike impaling an orc skull, but upon closer inspection, the l.u.s.ter of the wood indicated it was still alive . The malevolent and vicious orc skull impressed a sense of despair .

As the orc shaman chanted, one could feel clear arcane ripples around its skull staff .

In this instant, that cultured male suddenly gestured a palm to the orc shaman . Instantly, its arcane ripples turned fuzzy .

That was an extremely peculiar sensation, as though a peaceful running water was suddenly clogged and water spurted everywhere . The shaman"s arcane magic was instantly disrupted .

Instead, that vicious orc shaman roared angrily and waved its bone staff towards the few other orcs!

The orcs begun roaring sonorously as their eyes turned red . They then charged towards the four contestants unanimously .

“Bloodl.u.s.t spell? Sheyan mused and said . “Because its incantation spell was disrupted, the spell changed?”

Concurrently, the cultured male stretched out his hand again towards an incoming orc . That orc immediately altered its charging direction and fiercely collided into a fence .

Kacha! The fence broke and naturally, the orc"s head bled .

When the orc climbed back up, he casually ignored the cultured male and bolted towards Sheyan .

“Eh? That guy"s ability is rather unique . ” Sheyan mused in his heart and said . “An illusion master?”

Meanwhile, the roaring Reef just swiped his "Steelclaw" through the throat of an incoming orc . Already riddled with wounds, it was pitifully beheaded by Reef"s vicious swipe!

A pillar of blood gushed into the sky and sprinkled down like a fountain . A headless orc body sprinted 7-8 meters before slamming into a wooden fence and collapsing to the ground .

When the other orcs witnessed this scene, they didn"t flee but turned increasingly berserk as they rampaged in .

Sheyan sliced off the left leg of an orc . However, before peris.h.i.+ng, that orc wrapped Sheyan with its hairy arms and revealed its disgusting white teeth .

Frankly speaking, Sheyan didn"t place the strength of this orc in his eyes, still, he could sense a surge of deadliness from the orc .

“Strange, it wouldn"t be weird if an Uruk-hai displayed such indomitable fighting spirit, but for an orc to be so tenacious, this is really thought-provoking . ” Sheyan pondered pensively .

In this instant, that gloomy woman unleashed an abrupt scream . Following that, one could distinctly observe two pincering orcs suddenly being rooted on the ground with fear, as a doppelganger illusion with distorted faces floated out from their bodies! Shockingly, it appeared as though their souls were being scared out of their bodies .

After being frightened out, the soul of one injured orc directly wafted out of its body and dissipated .

Although the other soul return to its orc body, that orc stumbled backwards with black blood streaming from its nose, ears and mouth . It was evidently severely wounded .

The orc shaman was standing quite near and suffered some spillover effects, but being just at the edge of the scream"s range, it only received light damages .

“Ah, the "Witch howl" ability . ” Reef spoke into the party channel . “This woman isn"t simple . A "Witch howl" ability is hailed as one of the earlier stage strongest area of effect damage ability . Aldaris suffered considerably by it before . ”

Sheyan nodded and replied .

“Yeah but I"m guessing she requires a chanting period to acc.u.mulate power to execute her scream . That is her fatal flaw and that illusion master"s disrupting ability can easily restrain her . ”

The two chatted while fighting and very quickly eradicated the few orcs . Then, the proceeded to gang up on the bone staff wielding orc shaman .

Since their previous experience in the Lord of the Rings world, Sheyan and Reef were now exceedingly clear on the attack patterns and weaknesses of orcs . With the expansion of both their prowess since then, ganging up on a mage type mini boss was no issue . Without employing his s.h.i.+eld, Reef easily blocked off its attacks .

Simultaneously, that illusion master a.s.sisted them as well . His attack style was unique where he carved out circles in the air with his finger . Then, the circles would unleash a light beam to strike the opponent .

This illusion master"s attack power wasn"t that great but could actually burn some of the opponent"s mana . It was considered a rather splendid ability .

In contrast, that gloomy woman coldly spectated by the side without any intentions of a.s.sisting .

Under the combined a.s.saults of the three contestants, the unlucky orc shaman"s vitality plunged swiftly . Besides, an orc shaman was still a shaman and couldn"t escape the fate of a brittle physique .

When the orc shaman finally groaned and collapsed, it dropped a silver s.h.i.+mmering key!

Sheyan and Reef wasn"t expecting the orc shaman to drop anything . Moreover, a silver storyline grade key wasn"t extremely enticing to them anymore, hence, there was a delay in retrieving the key .

Who knew, that gloomy woman, upon witnessing the silver s.h.i.+mmering key, quickly reached forth her wrinkled hand with a sparkle in her eyes . Unexpectedly, the silver key started flying towards her!

“Eh?” Sheyan gasped in astonishment . He and Reef wasn"t expecting someone to dare extract a tooth from the tiger"s mouth .

Fortunately, the flight of the silver key wasn"t fast . Sheyam immediately leaped up and s.n.a.t.c.hed the silver key back .

In response, the gloomy woman knitted her brows and hissed out .

“Very good, very good . ”

The cultured middle-aged male issued sullenly .

“Yerna, you are no longer the party leader . If you don"t change your habits, you will land yourself in trouble . ”

Yerna glared icily at Sheyan and Reef .

“Mind your own business, Franklin . ”

Reef was about to say something, but Sheyan had just summoned out a silver chest and reached in for a draw .

He actually pulled out a silver glittering orc skull staff! Based on its exterior, that was shockingly the bone staff that belonged to the orc shaman .

Sheyan was rather curious about the staff"s properties because it seemed rather outstanding; as though it didn"t belong to such a poverty-stricken mini boss .

[ Muyogu Arm ]

[ Type: Staff (relevant staff type ability will be enhanced) ]

[ Origin: Any world with orc magic ]

[ Rarity: Silver Storyline ]

[ Material quality: Excellent ]

[ Material: Chitin + Yellow hillwood + male unicorn fur + cursed blood + magic ]

[ Addons: gem/crystal ]

[ Weight: 3 . 4 kg ]

[ Usage requirements: Intelligence 50 points, physique 20 points, spirit 50 points ]

[ Durability: 7/7 ]

[ Property: Intelligence and Spirit +5 ]

[ Property: Physique and strength -1 ]

[ Equipment position: Dual hand ]

[ Ability: Flare – when wielder casts an ability, there is a chance of magic flare where damage dealt to enemy is raised by 15% . Magic consumption also increases by 15% ]

[ Ability: Bone Erosion – Magic force originating from the bone marrow of the staff will lower all of opponent"s resistance by 20% . However, wielder will be affected by the bone erosion and personal resistance falls by 10% ]

[ Active ability: Magic Javelin – casting chant of 1 . 5 seconds, releases a magic javelin of 30 meters range . Deals a 1 second stun to the enemy and a 50% reduction in movement speed for 5 seconds after the stun ]

[ Detail: Magic Javelin damage equivalent to intelligence x 6 ]

[ Ability: Muyogu"s Soul – the individual who crafted this staff utilized several cruel methods to enslave two innocent souls . When using the staff, there is a chance of being hypnotized by the two innocent souls for 5 minutes . Hypnosis is dispelled upon receiving damage ]

[ Detail: Fortunately, the two innocent souls are extremely greedy . Therefore, during such emergencies, you can pay utility points to awake from hypnosis . (utility points fee = fixed 2,000 points + world difficulty evaluation (0-5,000) ]

[ Description: Ensuring economic reserves is the first step to employing this magic staff ]

To Sheyan and Reef, this weapon was merely pleasing to the eyes . Instead, it could be a marvelous addition to other individuals .

Spectating the greedy glint in Yerna"s eyes, Reef sneered in his heart as he waited for her to proactively s.n.a.t.c.h . Sheyan naturally knew what Reef was thinking and chose to keep quiet .

Nevertheless, Yerna was no idiot . When she noticed that both Sheyan and Reef were seemingly fearless, her heart was filled with doubts . Thus, the scene plunged into a certain awkwardness .

Suddenly, shouts of battle drifted in from outside .

Without a change in expression, Sheyan and Reef marched out where a scene instantly greeted them .

As it turns out, this was a mountain depression filled with shrubs, underbrush, and some chopped tree laying horizontally on the ground . The tree stumps appeared smooth and were probably treated as stools by the orcs .

Still, the current scene permeated with a rotting stench and broken bones could be seen everywhere .

The shouts came from the west, where loud sounds of metal collision could soon be identified .

Plop! Plop! After a while, two sounds that resemble sandbags dropping resounded in . It was as though a creature was struck flying .

Then came a clamorous cras.h.i.+ng sound, which sounded like magic enhanced knight armour colliding . Following that, was a series of m.u.f.fled echoes, as though someone was waving around a c.u.mbersome large tree .

A second later, the contestants watch as an orc, unknown if dead or alive, soared in with limbs waving before cras.h.i.+ng down heavily . Its eyes ruptured hideously when it landed, and black-maroonish blood streamed out from its eyes .

When that dead orc landed, the remaining few orcs fled in horror . However, la.s.sos flew in like venomous snakes and descended precisely onto the necks of two fleeing orcs, although the rest caught nothing . With a forceful tug, the two unlucky orcs bounced into the air like kites and were dragged back to the gra.s.s .

Consecutively, a fine bronze truncheon carried an oppressive wind sound as it smacked in horizontally!

This truncheon, though just a truncheon, actually resembled a mace . It smashed against the orc"s skull and bluntly mangled it like it was a watermelon .

The person wielding then……drilled up from the gra.s.s .

Indeed, drilled was the correct world .

Because, this fierce male that could sweep through and ma.s.sacre armies was barely 1 . 5 meters tall . He had a large red nose with a braided beard . His arm muscles were robust and his body seemed to develop horizontally instead . Still, he didn"t appear comical and seemed firmly stable .

Indeed, this was a dwarf . A dwarven warrior clad in heavy armour and adept in using a dual-handed war mace!

The dwarf scanned around and trudged towards the wooden canopy . He quickly discovered the head of stable boy Pombo, before clutching his face and sobbing spasmodically; as though his relations.h.i.+p with Pombo wasn"t shallow .

Moments later, others streamed in from all sides .

A brief while later, a male with golden curly hair who wore a black velvet mantle emerged . He walked over with large strides, as the sword scabbard clinked distinctly against the chain vest he wore .

The dwarven warrior looked over and exclaimed with sorrow .

“Mister Wright! We retrieved our goods but dear Pombo has been killed!”

Wright sighed and replied .

“Oh Segimli, go on and grieve, the lives of humans are short and death is an inevitable fact . Your uncle handed you to me so you can experience the joys and sorrows of life . ”

Next, he gazed towards Sheyan and the others .

“You travellers must have been abducted too? Winter is soon coming to Misty Mountains, the orcs are recently growing bolder; abducting all races everywhere . We"re just retrieving the goods plundered by the orcs, ai… . . what plans do you have?”

Franklin was the first to stroll forward, and pressed his hand to his chest before bowing .

“Respected Mister Wright, I"ve nowhere to go, please retain me kind sir . ”

Wright shook his head gently and replied .

“My caravan fleet does not lack numbers but we"re destined for Rivendell . The paradise merchants of middle-earth, their banquet requires our supplies . I can bring you to the outskirts of Rivendell, I believe you can find a caravan in need of workers there . ”

Without a doubt, rescuing stable boy Pombo was akin to a free entry to Rivendell via Wright"s caravan group . If one chose not to rescue, then one could only reach the outskirts of Rivendell where a sequence of mission awaits, and entry would only be given after mission completion .

Franklin bowed and responded .

“My grat.i.tude for your kindness . ”

Following that, Yerna also joined in to follow the caravan .

Just when Wright was about to ask Sheyan and Reef, a group of humans arrived . This group clearly comprised of contestants, and seemed like a party albeit looking like a rather disorderly and messy one .

Observing this situation, Sheyan immediately whispered into the party channel .

“I just realized the realm"s intention for us with this world"s arrangement . Do you still remember how we first met? Likewise, we are left with two of us for this world, and therefore, triggered a certain secret condition . Once the world begun, it allocated parties with scattered contestants, or soloist without any parties . The realm intends for us to replenish our members!”

Reef contemplated and answered .

“That does sounds possible, but why were we imprisoned right after entering this world? That is extremely strange . ”

Honestly speaking, Reef truly hadn"t experienced being imprisoned upon waking up into a new world .

If it was truly to replenish party members, then everyone should be congregated together right from the beginning; just like what happened in the Stars.h.i.+p Trooper World . That should be followed by a mission that requires everyone to make a concerted effort, a crisis that forces them to fight shoulder to shoulder . In this manner, successful survivors could be officially bonded through victory .

This was indeed the normal growth model of establis.h.i.+ng a party .

Yet this current predicament was incredibly peculiar . Nevertheless, they could confirm that Yerna was definitely an ex-party leader, which explains her imposing bearing . Of course, viewing her performance, she was undoubtedly not an outstanding party leader . Therefore, she was tossed back to the start after a certain failure .

“Could it be the realm is only willing for us to replenish two members? Or choosing one between both Franklin or Yerna?” Reef asked bewilderedly .

Sheyan pondered a little and replied .

“Not so far-fetched . Based on your explanation, there can only be one explanation – our party isn"t the only one needing to replenish members! Other parties aren"t as formidable as us, therefore they cannot compete under a fair playing ground . Without a doubt, the realm granted them some privileges; allowing them to act first and establish a certain interaction and trust, which will lead to relations.h.i.+ps being formed before successfully a.s.similating as one party . Still, that is temporary . Don"t think too much they aren"t that big of a threat to us . There is one other point though that I don"t understand . ”

Reef inquired .

“Which point?”

Sheyan furrowed his brows and answered .

“Logically speaking based on our previous experience in this world, we should be able to enter the elf kingdom of Rivendell with ease . Yet the realm still arranged a chance to rescue stable boy Pombo with achievement points, in exchange for enrolling into Mister Wright"s caravan . It is as though entering Rivendell is absolutely necessary . On the contrary, if we didn"t have the luxury of choice, then wouldn"t we be disadvantaged when clas.h.i.+ng with other parties?”

After listening, Reef added on .

“Discarding all other elements, just speaking theoretically; according to your statement, there is only one possibility – if we don"t join Wright"s caravan, we cannot enter Rivendell!”

Sheyan squinted his eyes and concluded .

“Correct . That is the only explanation, but if that is true, I can"t think of the reasoning behind that . ”

While the duo were discussing, Mister Wright finally noticed them .

“The both of you can follow my caravan to Rivendell as well . Otherwise, best of luck to your journey ahead . ”

Following that, this das.h.i.+ng and heroic male hopped onto a mighty black horse and raised his sword while proclaiming .

“Gentlemen! Just 14 leagues to home, Rivendell"s fortune awaits us all! I hope to see the elven"s enchanted ribbons fluttering beneath the oaks before dusk!”

(TL: 1 league is about 3 miles in Lord of the Rings)

The caravan members lifted their weapons up in unison and cheered before commencing their journey forward .

At this moment, Sheyan and Reef simultaneously received the notifications .

[ Time: Third Age, year 3000 (1 year before the Lord of the Rings trilogy) ]

[ Location: Middle-Earth, Misty Mountains ]

[ Setting: Lord of the Rings ]

[ Difficulty: B+ (dangerous) ]

[ Pain limitation: 50% ]

[ Individual capability bonus: 0% ]

[ Present setting exploration rate: 8 . 13% ]

[ Setting description: Setting is free world setting ]

[ You automatically grasp the relevant language . Able to interact freely with characters of this world, and erased upon leaving this world ]

[ Your appearance/ident.i.ty have been settled; restored upon returning to the real world . You can also commence modifications within the nightmare realm . For any doubts, voice the relevant queries to the nightmare imprint; if your scope of authority is adequate, you will receive an answer ]

[ Party Ace: This is your second time entering this world, you will retain interpersonal relations.h.i.+ps with certain characters . Therefore, before obtaining any reputation, your ident.i.ty and status will also be acknowledged . Please receive the articles deposited in this world ]

[ Detail: You received an unknown object – Scorched Ocean Moria"s Egg ]

[ Detail: You received 3 platinum coins and 17 copper (note: 1 platinum coin = 1000 silver coins) ]

[ Detail: Crucial relations.h.i.+ps with storyline characters: Twilight Elf Melody (intimate), Saruman (hostile), Uruk-hai Lurtz (nemesis) ]

[ Detail: "Intimate" is a special relations.h.i.+p . Normally developed with the opposite s.e.x but not excluding the possibility of same s.e.x . Under normal times, it will be determined with the similar effects as "Wors.h.i.+pped" ]

“Eh?” Sheyan exclaimed . “Scorched Oceanfreak Moria"s Egg? When did we obtain this?”

The platinum coins were plundered from Saruman"s wizard tower previously . However, that "Scorched Oceanfreak Moria"s Egg" was extremely surprising . Reef was astonished as well .

Back then, with them both working together, Reef was the one that carried the "Oceanfreak Moria"s Eggs" away . Never did he expect, when he couldn"t bring all back, the realm had forcibly retained one .

Sheyan hastily investigated and was immediately enlightened on the reason of its retainment .

[ Item: Scorched Oceanfreak Moria"s Egg ]

[ Type: Special item ]

[ Origin: When the raging Balrog was injured, a drop of blood sprinkled onto this miserable "Oceanfreak Moria"s Egg" . Therefore, although it seemed that nothing odd happened on the exterior, the balrog"s blood has fused into the egg and given birth to a miraculous variation…… . alright, the series of alchemy involved is complex, just know that it is now boiled and ripened ]

[ Consuming: Grants immunity to fire or water element damage for 100 seconds . This effect is ineffective towards contestants" attacks ]

[ Warning: If eaten multiple times during a short period, the consequence is having boiled innards ]

[ Detail: The egg is large and can be eaten for ten times . Based on its special characteristics, it is unable to be brought out from this world ]

Moments later, Sheyan and Reef received more notifications .

[ Party Ace received a main mission: Choice ]

[ Completion deadline: 30 days ]

[ Mission summary: As the final decisive war dawns on both light and darkness, choose to support the Middle-Earth Alliance or the Dark Lord ]

[ Mission objective: Within 30 days, gain relevant qualifications and arrive at the destination of The Prancing Pony in the Village of Bree OR Gabilshathûr, the Dwarven Outpost in the outskirts of Angmar ]

[ Mission note: Acquire fate points by killing storyline characters of the Middle-earth Alliance or followers of the Dark Lord, or complete relevant missions . After acc.u.mulating 1,000 fate points, you will receive the relevant qualifications ]

[ Main mission failure: You will be immediately transported back to the nightmare realm and be deducted 50,000 utility points ]

[ Note: You can accomplish the following milestones in this world ]

[ Elegant Demeanor: Attain an "Amicable" relations.h.i.+p with all of The Fellows.h.i.+p members ]

[ Scholar: Read the three books –” Existence of Light Magic “, ” Fury of Apparitions “and” The Source of Nature ]

[ Please explore and discover other milestones on your own ]

Viewing the main mission contents, Reef wondered out loud .

“Why not reputation but changed to this d.a.m.ned fate points instead?”

Sheyan replied calmly .

“I"m guessing it is to create an even starting line for everyone . Besides, in the movie, the White Wizard Saruman was initially the mainstay of the Middle-Earth alliance but was corrupted by Sauron . Therefore, history between the alliance and the dark lord has lost its credibility, and uncovering hidden truths is a suitable reasoning . ”

Meanwhile, as the caravan group continued their advance, the other contestant party begun expansion plans; sending a delegate to attempt interactions with Franklin .

On the other hand, Sheyan was pondering over the banquet that Mister Wright mentioned . A faint ominous premonition was currently welling up in his heart .

After pondering, he marched towards the middle of the caravan group .

However, 50 meters away from Mister Wright, a sharp lance pointed to Sheyan"s throat .

In reality, the caravan also harbored great vigilance towards these unnamed humans .

“Halt, human . Take one more step and you shall know the incisiveness of a lance sharpened by Mister Nedved . ”

Sheyan unfolded his arms and implored .

“I only wish to consult with Mister Wright . ”

“Run along . ” The one pointing a lance at Sheyan was a tall and skinny male . “Mister Wright isn"t free . ”

Sheyan wanted to convince him but alas, one of the two great prerequisites of doing so was charm, followed by power . Sadly, Sheyan didn"t possess either right now . Hence, 5 seconds later, more lances came pointed towards him .

“Fine fine, I"ll leave . ” Sheyan shrugged his shoulders helplessly .

He then noticed that dwarf warrior in heavy armour . The dwarf was still carrying his ma.s.sive war mace as he stared over vigilantly .

Sheyan"s heart was stirred as he recalled a hobby of the dwarves . He then strolled over to strike up a conversation .

“Mister Segimli?”

Without a doubt, the dwarf felt indignant towards Sheyan because of stable boy Pombo"s death . Nevertheless, the dwarf maintained some courtesy to glance at Sheyan while displaying his disdain with silence .

Sheyan remained silent as well and fished out his "Endless Spirited Vodka" for a drink . The rich alcoholic aroma prompted Segimli to gulp down his saliva .

Sheyan then directly offered him a gla.s.s……

In the face of such enticement, Segimli reached out his hand without portraying any resistance . It was akin to most readers being incapable of resisting to ravage Rola Misaki after seeing her melons… .

Thus, the following affair was smoothened out .

Sheyan quickly found out that Segimli was "merely" 131 years old . Indeed, just 131 years old . Besides, a dwarf"s typical lifespan was 800 years… . .

In human context, Segimli was akin to a 13 or 14 year old adolescent . As such, his uncle entrusted Segimli to Mister Wright to show him the system of the world, rather than allowing his nephew to idle at home while watching "adult videos" .

That was the reason for Segimli"s appearance in this caravan group .

Although the relations.h.i.+p between elves and dwarves wasn"t excellent, it was precisely that both groups paid closer attention to each other . Just like the poor relations.h.i.+p between China and j.a.pan, therefore many males during the eighties and nineties paid special attention and warmly received Sora Aoi into their culture .

Hence, Sheyan attained information on something he desired .

Information of that celebration banquet .

The banquet was called – The Returning Feast .

Known as "The Last Homely House East of the Sea", where else could elves of Rivendell possibly return to?

Naturally, the holy land for the elves – The Undying Lands, Valinor . It was the land across the sea, a paradise yearned for by everyone .

Why hadn"t they left earlier? Because only twilight elves knew the pa.s.sage back to the Undying Lands . Recently, a twilight elf cultivated to unprecedented heights and awakened the method of returning to the Undying Lands…after this banquet, some of the Rivendell elves would immediately set out on a journey .

Sheyan"s vision darkened upon hearing that and felt as though he had dropped a boulder on his own feet . He now understood why the realm offered him the opportunity to join Mister Wright"s caravan with achievement points .

Evidently, after Maiden Melody"s awakening as a twilight elf and being "piak piak piak" by him, the elder elves must have realized something . Given her naturally gullible personality, she would"ve come clean completely . Therefore, to the elves, he was undoubtedly a sinner who had profaned a twilight elf!

Oh, the elven punishment for sinners was pinning to a tree with an arrow .

Sheyan suddenly recalled people in the movies being served the death penalty of being shot and couldn"t help but s.h.i.+vered a little…

Thus right now, wanting to enter Rivendell while walking through a bed of roses… . . that was simply a fantasy .

Sheyan sighed and located Reef before divulging this news . In response, Reef offered a bleak smile .

“Boss, why not sc.r.a.pe the idea of visiting Rivendell . Besides, the main mission didn"t say we must go there . ”

Sheyan replied with a low voice .

“Impossible . ”

Reef persuaded earnestly .

“You still plan to abduct Melody? Not possible anymore . That time, she just completed her coming of age ceremony and was merely a 14-15 year teen, being seduced by your scheming words . Perhaps you occupied her heart then, but the years are sufficient for her to gain wisdom . ”

Sheyan refuted harshly .

“This daddy occupied both her heart and flesh then!”

Reef was momentarily stunned, his gaze that of envy and jealousy . In truth, Sheyan had never treated Maiden Melody as just a one night stand . After all, doing so was akin to feeling guilt for swindling a minor .

After a brief while, Reef responded with malicious intent .

“Hey, seems like your relations.h.i.+p with Zi isn"t normal too, I wonder how she will react to your words?”

Sheyan felt rather smug upon hearing those words, but at this moment, the young dwarf Segimli marched over .

Observing the dwarf"s thirsting expression, Sheyan knew what he wanted and fished out his "Endless Spirited Vodka" to the dwarf .

With eyes br.i.m.m.i.n.g with tears and excitement, Segimli gulped down the wonder "Endless Spirited Vodka" . The reason why storyline characters loved this drink so much, was most likely due to its life regeneration property . It was equivalently to infusing them with hidden vitality .

The young dwarf downed the gla.s.s and appeared unwilling to leave . He suddenly spoke in a low m.u.f.fled voice .

“My Uncle Sandvik just called you a bragger!”

Sheyan squinted his eyes and asked .

“When did I brag?”

The dwarf gazed at Sheyan with a straightforward and honest look .

“The terms you mentioned; Brandy, whisky, vodka, champagne, sparkling wine…… . there aren"t such terms in the whole of Middle-Earth!”

Sheyan replied spitefully .

“Which one is your Uncle Sandvik? Oh, the one that wrapped his head? I can tell he must be a puritan, probably never encountered other fine drinks except ale and wine in his lifetime . ”

The young dwarf fumed .

“Don"t you slander my Uncle Sandvik, he is the wisest amongst the caravan group . ”

Sheyan shrugged his shoulders and replied .

“Am I wrong? Young one, what if I can verify my words?”

The dwarf"s simple mind couldn"t process this after being served with such a question . The dwarf brandished his c.u.mbersome but fierce-looking warmace, and looked as though he wanted to scratch his own head with it .

“Then tell me what you want . ”

Sheyan was satisfied with that answer and immediately wielded his "Alcohol Master" t.i.tle before prompting the confused dwarf .

“The One bestowed me this honored accolade for my drinking endeavors across middle-east . You shouldn"t think this is false, heard of the great Seaman before aye?”

Segimli immediately shook his head listlessly while feeling embarra.s.sed, and nodded again . Sheyan searched through the party storage and managed to locate an ordinary rum from the Caribbean Sea World . He then retrieved it and pa.s.sed the bottle to Segimli .

“Mister Segimli you have learned a new truth in life . The words of foreigners may be false, but the drink swirling in your belly cannot lie . ”

“Oh, what a splendid saying!” The dwarf gulped down mouthfuls of rum and got excited from the alcohol coursing through his body . “Indeed, the drink swirling in my belly can"t lie!”

Sheyan"s eyes flashed and continued .

“Therefore, you must bring my friend and I into Rivendell . ”

“Surely!” The young Segimli wiped his beard and hiccuped .

“Maybe Uncle Wright won"t admit you humans, but my father knows many caravan lords of Middle-Earth! The caravan lords favors the weapon masterpieces forged by us dwarves, and there will surely be several caravan groups outside Rivendell . My friend, your wish is easy to fulfill . ”

Meanwhile, Sheyan also noticed the other contestants moving into action as well . Some appeared zealous as though they had accepted a mission from Caravan lord Wright, or perhaps, their main mission was related to the caravan group .

However, Sheyan wasn"t placing much emphasis on his main mission .

After travelling for another half an hour, the caravan group halted to rest atop a hill .

From here, one could already spectate the glorious beauty of Rivendell from afar . Layers of valleys complementing the vast sceneries of white stone and greenery shade .

Following that, the caravan would traverse through those valleys without resting until they arrived .

While gazing into the distant Rivendell, Sheyan noticed a contestant strolling over to converse with Reef . Reef didn"t appear to say much but merely shook his head constantly .

When Sheyan walked over, that contestant was already speaking with a displeased countenance .

“Since you reject our kind intentions, then we shan"t force it . Anyway, I heard you guys obtained a silver storyline grade magic staff?”

Sheyan interrupted .

“And so?”

That contestant answered with thick-skin .

“My party has a member that is coincidentally in need of a magic staff . I wish you will sell it yo us . ”

Sheyan chuckled and replied .

“Sell? No problem, as long as you guys can afford it . ”

That contestant replied .

“5,000 utility points . This is very generous already, you won"t lose out at all . ”

Sheyan laughed heartily and bluntly scoffed .

“Scram!”

That contestant"s expression immediately soured as he answered with a gloomy tone .

“Fine, very good . From now, even if you wish for us to buy, we will not . ”

At this moment, the situation crescendoed as four other contestants begun pressing in . They had actually been discretely forming a circle to wrap around Sheyan and Reef .

Moreover, that ex-party leader, Yerna, was amongst them and glared with a look of mockery .

In this instant, Sheyan abruptly waved to a dwarf who was curiously looking over . Immediately, Segimli sprinted over clamorously in his full armor while brandis.h.i.+ng that incredibly crude warmace .

Those five contestants were instantly shocked . They imagined Sheyan"s capability to be so great, he could actually hire an ironclad dwarf . While feeling that trouble was brooding, they soon heard Sheyan callously asking .

“Would you mind if I slaughter these brats?”

The dwarf replied bluntly .

“Why would I care, I am only concerned with safeguarding the caravan"s goods . I swore an oath to Mahal I would keep these goods safe, but, that includes Mister Pombo as well… . . ”

The dwarf became slightly disheartened upon remembering that and his eyes reddened . Droplets of tears soon trickled down .

At this moment, Sheyan bolted forth like a ferocious leopard . He had directly activated "Horn Rage" and was charging towards Yerna!

Sheyan"s sudden impetus completely eclipsed the contestants" expectations . Nevertheless, they regained their senses a second later and attacked unanimously . Two contestants fired off wildly with their submachine guns, as the bullets created a parade of sparks upon raining in . They had no idea that such low-damage-high-frequency a.s.saults were Sheyan"s favourite .

Still, one of them was a Growth-Hunter and sprinted towards Yerna after observing Sheyan"s "Horn Rage" ability . Right before Sheyan collided into Yerna, that Growth-Hunter roared and lifted both arms . Unexpectedly, Sheyan was thrown to the ground after his acc.u.mulated momentum crashed into his target .

Meanwhile, Reef had also activated "Courage" and arrived a split second behind Sheyan . After all, both "Horn Rage" and "Courage" were maximum speed abilities, with the only difference being employed on foes or allies .

Reef didn"t wield his dark-gold s.h.i.+eld when he arrived, but opted to release a "Shattering Cardiac Roar" first . He then forcibly endured the strength-type Growth-Hunter"s elbow thrust against Sheyan, while simultaneously cleaving down onto the wretched Yerna with "Steelclaw" .

Just like how the duo felt distaste for the wretched Yerna, she similarly disliked them to the utmost . Yet after recovering from the stunning duration of "Horn Rage", she was instantly struck with "Shattering Cardiac Roar" and failed to escape in time .

For her to break free, she would have to consume an "effect-immunity" medicine, item or cast an ability . Instead, she thought too highly of herself and yelled while coating a dark-blue light screen around herself . It was indeed a high rank "Magic s.h.i.+eld" that could absorb damage with MP while unleas.h.i.+ng her "Witch"s Howl" .

Concurrently, Reef exerted more strength as he activated the "Aberration" ability of "Steelclaw" .

In this split second, a sinister dinosaur claw of Hammond"s son appeared and brutally clawed down onto Yerna . It utterly ignored her "Magic s.h.i.+eld" and tore out a ma.s.sive chunk of flesh from her shoulder .

Yerna screamed miserably in response as Reef"s strike carried a terrifying 97 points of true damage . In addition to the claw"s basic damage and blood loss damages, the resulting outcome skyrocketed to a horrifying figure .

At this moment, Sheyan recovered from his stun and pressed forward silently after brandis.h.i.+ng "+7 West" .

Yerna finally panicked and though she looked down on Sheyan"s dark-blue grade weapon, her other opponent"s a.s.sault that could negate her s.h.i.+eld was too frightening . Feeling immense heartache, she quickly consumed a medicine to dispel her of the speed decline effect from "Shattering Cardiac Roar" .

Yet in this instant, Reef towered over her with a phantom of an arrogant, herculean centaur behind him . He mercilessly stomped down and crushed Yerna to the ground, while disrupting her chanting activation of "Witch"s Howl" .

Indeed, this was the ability of Reef"s "Siege Hooves" – "Trampling Hooves"!

After being bombarded by the bullets previously, Sheyan"s body jolted with electric blue currents; signalling the long activation of his "Zergling Rush" ability . Sparing no courtesy, Sheyan pounced forward and released three vicious slash against Yerna .

Blood splashed wildly as the three blades slashed in . Following that, the haughty Yerna"s eyes flashed with fear as she screamed miserably .

Just as Reef was about to cleave down again, Yerna rolled aside and escaped the fetters of his "Trampling Hooves" . Her body irradiated with the glow of consuming an "Honorary Medicine" .

In spite of that, Sheyan pulled out "Ambition" and blasted her head with a stun, as the duo charged in for the slaughter .

Yet at this moment, an incomparably shrilling sound pierced in . Seven emerald arrows vaulted through the sky and landed in the faces of the battling contestants .

One could observe these exquisite arrowtails were hollow, which created that shrilling hiss when speeding through the air .

Closely after, a squad of elves trudged out from the nearby forest and announced with a cold and aloof voice .

“Humans, cease your meaningless battle . The joyous feast of Rivendell will not be sullied by your filthy blood! There will not be a second warning . ”

The contestants who were new to this world were naturally astonished, and obediently submitted to this mysterious and n.o.ble race called elves .

However, to Sheyan and Reef who had interacted with elves many times in the past, they long discarded the notion of wors.h.i.+pping this mysterious race . Oh, Sheyan had even wretchedly tore of Maiden Melody"s straw skirt in the past……

Still, the main reason the halted their a.s.saults as well, was the horrified expressions of the caravan group . After all, the caravan group had business dealings with the elf! Evidently, they would react harshly against anyone who dared to act blindly without thinking .

“Humans! What are your purposes here in Rivendell?” An elf adorned in green branch ornaments strolled out and issued icily .

Mister Wright then walked forward while holding a cane .

This cane didn"t appear different from other canes in Middle-earth . The only difference was a verdant leaf at the top of the cane . This cane was clearly crafted with polished dead wood, yet a green leaf was growing from it on top .

Mister Wright got off his horse and greeted politely .

“I am acquainted with the n.o.ble Glorifindel . This is the keepsake he bestowed unto me, inviting me to visit Rivendell . ”

Glorfindel was similarly a twilight elf whose legend could be comparable even to the likes of Gandalf . After his death, he was re-embodied by the Valar to act as an emissary, and can no longer recall the journey back to the Undying Lands .

Strictly speaking, he was presently the third most important figure of Rivendell, an exalted elder worthy of inviting personal guests .

For Mister Wright to be able to interact with such a figure, his backing was inevitably extraordinary . No wonder the realm utilized him for this storyline .

When the chief elf patroller noticed the mediocre yet mystical cane, he hastily rushed forward and knelt to receive it with both hands . His bearing was exceptionally humble .

A mild green brilliance exuded out of his palms, as the cane reacted clearly with green radiance by the incitement of nature energy . The brilliance scattered in speckles towards the clouds in meticulous fas.h.i.+on .

Soon after, that chief elf patroller returned the cane to Mister wright with great reverence and bowed deeply .

“Respected Mister Wright, are you in command of these humans?”

Wright mounted his horse and announced in a gentle and civilized manner .

“These are my gift for the n.o.ble Glorfindel . I have yet to grasp powerful s.p.a.ce magic and can only carry this gift crudely and traverse leagues of danger to arrive at Rivendell . ”

At this moment, the young dwarf returned to Sheyan"s side for another drink . When he heard Mister Wright, his eyes widened with shock and asked .

“Gift? Hasn"t Mister Wright been saying these were our goods that can be exchanged for a great fortune?”

Sheyan sighed and and added with a resentful tone .

“Mister Segimli, this is how business is conducted amongst the upper echelons of the world . Ponder over it, the prideful elves will surely exchange treasures of equivalent value after receiving these "so-called" gifts . How wonderfully prestigious are artifacts crafted by elves in all of Middle-Earth…… . that is a gain of several folds . Most crucially, this season has created the ripe opportunity for a bountiful harvest… . ”

The young dwarf was immersed by Sheyan"s words and continued to display great thirst for knowledge .

“Forgive me, brother Seaman . Why this season?”

Sheyan sighed and answered .

“Most of the elves of Rivendell are preparing to depart for the Undying Lands . Ponder again, what will you do when migrating?”

Segimli caressed his beard with an earnest expression .

“I don"t migrate, brother Seaman . The mines are the best . The dry underground and clean dust can harden my skin greatly . ”

The young dwarf"s honest reply caused Sheyan to be slightly stumped .

“…what an ingenious answer . Fine, since most of the elves are departing, they will naturally avoid carrying excessively heavy or brittle objects . With many cordial friends sending off now, they naturally wouldn"t mind giving away such objects . Putting it simply, putting in a little and getting much out, understood?”

“No but I will remember that . ” Segimli earnestly replied . “Your expression tells me you are correct . ”

“Segimli truly knows how to flatter . ” Sheyan rolled his eyes . “Oh, an elf is approaching us . It must be because of you, after all, elves and dwarves don"t see eye to eye . ”

There was a long history of grievances between the elves and dwarves of Middle-earth . In simple terms, the Dwarves of Nogrod were famous for the craftsmans.h.i.+p of their weapons . Thingol, an elf king, requested Dwarven smiths to set a Silmaril (brilliant jewel) into a necklace . Enthralled by its beauty and greedy for the Silmaril, the Dwarves demanded the necklace insisting that as dwarf work it belonged to them . However, the elf king rejected them…driven mad by gold-l.u.s.t, they murdered Thingol and stole the necklace and the stone, igniting the bitter rivalry between Dwarves and Elves . Nevertheless, under Sauron"s pressure from the recent centuries, the conflict between two races lessened; resulting in Legolas and Gimli being able to work together in the Fellows.h.i.+p of the Ring .

However, Sheyan"s guess was wrong . This elf was middle-aged and seemed to know magic . He inspected Sheyan suspiciously and proclaimed .

“Human, I can sense a blood-thirsty aura coming from you . ”

Sheyan laughed and replied nonchalantly .

“Oh mystic elf, this human has been a butcher since fourteen . ”

Several other elves who were curiously glancing over frowned in distates towards Sheyan"s statement . Instead, the middle-aged elf frowned and said .

“I"ve encountered many occasions of such blood-thirsty aura . Many from orcs of Misty Mountains who are sealed underneath the great tree, and frequently from Uruk-hais as well . Yet I can"t explain your aura, it contains hints of nature!”

Speaking till here, the elf wizard"s eyes turned hazy . He shut his eyes and looked towards the sky with a seemingly bewitched infatuation .

“Unprecedented……such a sensation . The taste of blood reaching deep into my mind like a tentacle, drilling into my senses like a terrifying network of ma.s.sive roots . I should be feeling agony, yet it feels like a vast sea, a raging whirlpool in the vast sea… . . ”

The elves were creatures of senses . Advocators of graceful arts, the elves could hear the laughs and cries of melancholic souls .

As such, the spectators didn"t feel particularly strange when this elf raised both arms to the sky in seemingly intoxicated fas.h.i.+on .

Still, when they heard this middle-aged elf wizard"s statement, the other elves circled in and attempted to probe with their magic senses as well .

It was no wonder the middle-aged elf wizard was lost in his senses . The "Stairway of the Sun" was an incredibly peculiar existence which contained the characteristics of nature . Yet, it also possessed the savage ferocity of bests, a hegemony of viruses .

Sheyan was extremely puzzled as well . The "Stairway of the Sun" was well hidden inside his body . Logically speaking, unless he gone through some sort of x-ray ability, it would be hard to fathom the alien specimen in his body .

Still, whenever Sheyan partic.i.p.ated in a battle, his virus ability would be unleashed . Yet even though he released and sealed it, that elf could unexpectedly sense it with merely 10 short seconds . It appears that elves were truly the gifted species of nature .

Nevertheless, Sheyan"s "Pestilence Monarch" ability was exceptional . An evolvable rank 9 ability, given an "S" rank evaluation . Although Sheyan only reached the second tier of branch abilities, other forms of ability shouldn"t be able to perceive it as long as Sheyan refrained from activating the ability .

After several futile attempts, the elves dispersed resentfully . Only that middle-aged elf wizard continued to steal dissecting glances at Sheyan, feeling extremely uneasy about him .

Under the guidance of this elf squad, the caravan group advanced swiftly and reached the outskirts of Rivendell .

The trees of this vicinity were all infused with nature magic by the elves . They were verdant and lush, surrounded by luscious vegetation and mystifying shades . Green gra.s.s coated the ground like a soft mattress that water could simply flow freely along it . White pebbles formed a tiny alley that was incomparably clean and untainted by even a speck of dust .

Sheyan was rather intrigued . With the numerous caravan groups arriving in Rivendell, how could they still preserve such pristine cleanliness of the place?

Thus, he purposely slowed his footsteps and observed a carriage horse of a caravan group . Not too long later, a horse that chewed a mouthful of dew gra.s.s, loosened its a.s.shole and painted the clean verdant environment with a think inky drop .

Following that, the most astonis.h.i.+ng scene happened .

Many large dung beetles bore out from all corners of the luscious gra.s.s and accelerated to the horse manure to clean it . Once again, that purely white pebble alley became untarnished . Moreover, the dirt and soil left behind by horse hooves were carried off by populations of ants . The level of magic here was truly mind-blowing .

The constructs of Rivendell sat atop a mountain valley, with two arduously steep cliffs by the side . Pine trees and emerald vines thrived and spring waters flowed down splendidly . Waterfalls fell like white jades hanging down lofty mountain ranges . One could gaze upon the distant snowy mountain peaks and feel a sense of myriad phenomenons .

Beneath the majestic sceneries, beautiful and impressive elven buildings populated the mountain valley . The structures of buildings were gentle and exuded a n.o.ble sense of royalty, while maintaining the purity of elves . Spring fountains and white pebbles filled the place, while the air carried a distinct fragrance . This was truly the unparalleled elf kingdom, Rivendell .

Of course, the caravan group was prohibited from entering the interior of Rivendell . The excrement of mult.i.tudes of cattles and horses would cause the elves to scratch their heads in anger .

Wright"s Caravan traversed through the waist of a mountain that could overlook Rivendell . After pa.s.sing through a luscious forest, an astonis.h.i.+ng vast gra.s.sland appeared in their sight . The gra.s.sland hosted many tents and was incomparably clamorous . Many individuals filled the place and one could deem this as a tiny city of a thousand strong .

The elves led the caravan group to the edge of an enormous tent . Don"t even mention the living quarters, s.p.a.ce was limited here and the individuals had to squeeze .

However, the elves suddenly produced a whip that was braided with hair . They lightly whipped a nearby tree . The tree begun automatically uprooting its roots before strolling to another place . After more trees did so, a s.p.a.cious land was produced .

Uniquely colored ribbons could be seen hanging from the trees in Rivendell . They didn"t appear remarkable during the daytime, but were a breathtaking sight at night .

After settling down and resting briefly, Mister Wright led a group of workers and headed into Rivendell with the goods for his old friend .

Naturally, the other group of contestants followed along . After witnessing the might of Sheyan and Reef, they didn"t dare to raise a challenge anymore .

After all, the nightmare realm followed the laws of the jungle . The duo"s strength of defying the a.s.saults of vie contestants while forcing Yerna, a Growth-Hunter, into despair, was sufficient to create a reverence in the hearts of the contestants .

Furthermore, that newly formed party was definitely still unstable; looking strong but internally brittle .

Sheyan silently admired the splendor of Rivendell .

Without a doubt, Sister Melody was here . He believed only about 5-6 kilometers separated them both, and to a powerful contestant, that distance could be covered within a dozen minutes or so .

Alas, this distance was akin to a heavenly moat .

The only advantage Sheyan had was that the elves of Rivendell were still unaware of his presence . Therefore, he would still have a chance of seeing Melody .

But what next?

In truth, Sheyan wasn"t absolutely confident in Melody like Reef said him to be . Besides, a person"s perspective can change easily, especially an adolescent young lady .

Just like how junior school females would judge a man by his looks, but a senior high school student will judge based on looks and wealth . In the end, a college female will look for guys with cash .

Most importantly, Melody was an awakened twilight elf . This indicated her memories would return . Therefore, could she still be an innocent and naive young maiden? A night of romance in the cave could very possibly turn into a mere spring dream .

Just as Sheyan was daydreaming about these, he suddenly felt someone tugging his s.h.i.+rt . An annoyed Segimli chided seriously .

“Mister Seaman, I"ve called you five times . ”

Sheyan offered him three gla.s.s of "Endless Spirit Vodka" before finally receiving a response .

“I abide by my words, Mister Seaman . I just discovered an old customer of my dwarven family, Mister Wilhelm . He has agreed to bring us into Rivendell . ”

“I"m awfully grateful…… . . us??? You"re coming along?” Sheyan curiously asked .

“Of course, a grand banquet will be held at night fall after all . ” Segimli replied boldly .

“It is said the Price of the Woodland Realm, Legolas, will be proposing to the twilight elf during the banquet . Therefore, we must head off immediately . Sadly, since both of you are listed as hirelings under Mister Wilhelm, you"ll have to help carry the goods . I"ll be back five minutes later . Rest now, the goods seem rather heavy . ”

When Segimly left, Reef laughed heartily as he walked over . He slapped the dumbstruck Sheyan"s shoulder and exclaimed .

“Ah huh, my friend . Welcome to the Society of Green Hats!”

“Legolas……” Sheyan ignored Reef and muttered . “Isn"t he going to be a member of the Fellows.h.i.+p?”

“Yes, he is . ” Reef nodded . “Legolas is a lofty and das.h.i.+ng character with supreme strength . Even the Uruk-hai Lurtz was suppressed by his archery, and is indomitable in close combat as well . Hmm, his natural disposition towards nature magic as an elf can render Lurtz as mere s.h.i.+t . Born of royal n.o.bility, elegant and cultured…why can"t I find any reason for Melody to reject him?”

“Oh shut up . ” Sheyan rolled his eyes and answered rankly . “All his fleeting superiority will inevitably crumble in the face of my only strong point – lasting an hour and 38 minutes! Mister Segimli, we are ready . My comrade says his strength is sufficient to carry the load of two individuals!”

“Boss…so petty! This is obviously taking revenge!”

Following that, Sheyan and Reef disguised themselves, not as princes visiting a princess, but as lowly caravan workers . They didn"t wish to arouse the attention of the elves . Besides, would a porter, carriage chauffeur, cleaner, or servant wear suits to undertake menial tasks? Thus, they quickly changed into the typical attire of caravan workers .

Segimli"s old customer, Mister Wilhelm, wasn"t as privileged as Mister Wright . Upon leading twenty workers carrying loads of goods towards Rivendell"s gates, they actually needed to queue up to be inspected by the elf guards which was an extremely long process .

The elves feared neither danger nor threats but hated filthy objects to the core . One could see this from how Rivendell elves employed nature magic to erase all uncleanliness . After a rather loose inspection, an elf led the entire caravan group, with Sheyan and Reef each carrying a sack of goods, into the majestic and pristine Rivendell .

Clear streams of water flowed through two drains, specially constructed with white pebbles, along both sides of the main street of Rivendell . Gorgeous and grand buildings were evenly segregated in the midst of lucious vegetation . It resembled a ma.s.sively perfect garden city and one could find swings and flowerbeds everywhere .

The plethora of plants bloomed with flowers or fruits, emitting a fragrance that gladdened the heart and refreshed the mind . Many elves occasionally stopped to pluck a fruit and rinsed it in the flowing spring waters beside, before directly having a bite .

Still, this scene failed to leave Sheyan and Reef awestruck . After all, Reef mentioned that his own castle scenery wasn"t inferior to Rivendell . Nevertheless, the ordinary caravan workers were undoubtedly amazed . Some of them ignored the heavy load they carried to touch around the place, releasing occasional gasps of admiration .

After travelling roughly 500-600 meters through the main street, a small squad of patrol elves obstructed the way ahead .

The elves begun gathering the statements of the foremost caravan workers and slowly made their way down the group . All of a sudden, an elf pointed towards a caravan porter . That porter"s complexion immediately paled as he started to tremble .

Following that, an elf marched forward and searched him; finding a fresh fruit inside his pocket . Clear water droplets still remained on the fruit surface and it was evident the porter had secretly plucked it to consume later .

The patrol elves discussed amongst each other as disdainful tones could be heard . Then, an elf adorned in a blue long robe, who appeared to be the leader, executed a vine art which constricted round the sobbing porter . The elf leader then issued with an earnest yet arrogant tone .

“Human, your filthiness and foolishness have sullied the sacred prestige of Rivendell . We have determined the rite of Nature"s a.s.similation for you . Your body shall return to nourish nature and your soul purified by the winds and rain . Henceforth, you will be freed from your wrongdoing . ”

The caravan lord, Mister Wilhelm, was perspiring profusely as he pleaded with the elf leader incessantly . Instead, that elf leader continued to shake his head callously .

Reef"s expression soured as he inquired of the indifferent looking Segimli .

“What is this rite of Nature"s a.s.similation?”

The young dwarf seemed rather dissatisfied with the elves as well and frowned while replying .

“To hang a man on the tree . These pointy-eared weirdos!”

Meanwhile, Sheyan was observing the pale-faced porter who had slumped to the ground . His body was s.h.i.+vering uncontrollably as murky tears rolled down his cheeks . After weighing the merits of drawbacks, Sheyan stood forward and glared at the elf punisher while calmly issuing .

“I"ve heard the elves are creatures of benevolence and beauty . Yet my eyes have seen that the elves are mere spiteful dictators!”

Although Sheyan understood that stepping up may result in all his earlier efforts falling through, he still chose to do it .

This was because he believed that each individual possesses their own resolute principles . Under the correct conditions, losses or failure was absolutely not the only factor to determining one"s action .

Rather less with righteousness than abundance with evil!

He wasn"t related to that porter but felt equally insulted by the elf"s discrimination . Being condemned to the death penalty by supposedly righteous elves over a puny matter . This was well beyond Sheyan"s bottomline, worthy of him stepping up against despite the lack of benefits to gain .

Hearing his words, that elf leader swung around and glared at Sheyan with displeasure .

“Human, you dishonor all elves with those words, for that, you shall pay the price . ”

Sheyan scoffed .

“Am I wrong? We traversed thousands of leagues to deliver supplies for Rivendell"s celebratory banquet . The journey long and arduous, treading between life and death; yet this is how you treat us? Like sinners and bandits having to tread cautiously even before entering your city . Where is the hospitality eh? Do tell me?”

That elf leader was momentarily stumped . Furthermore, Sheyan swept his incisive gaze through the other elves, to which the elves slanted their heads away in silence . Though they despised the humans, the humans did traverse through leagues of treacheries to arrive at Rivendell . They couldn"t find any reasons to refute that .

Sheyan trudged forward and ripped the clothes of the s.h.i.+vering porter, thereby revealing his swollen red shoulders and acc.u.mulated scars . He then fumed out .

“Look at his scars! Wounds acc.u.mulated while sacrificing himself for Rivendell . Is it wrong he wanted to steal a bite from a common Rivendell fruit? You wish to condemn him to death?”

The elf in long blue robe coldly argued .

“Eating is fine but thievery is a tremendous sin! Regardless of humans or elves, punishment must be meted out to thieves . ”

The elf"s reasoning was acute and captured the essence of this issue . Nevertheless, Sheyan chuckled and held the fruit up .

“Thievery? Let me ask, to whom does this fruit belong to?”

The blue-robed elf answered without hesitation .

“To the elves of Rivendell . ”

Sheyan sighed and replied .

“Your selfishness has blinded your eyes, elf . Even a puny human like me has heard the guiding "Song of Dawn" you elves love to sing – Sweet source of water, abundance of food; blessed by the mighty Eru Ilúvatar . The prayer of elves every morning, O children of Ilúvatar to be humble . Beauty is not mere appearance but of the spirit . Where is your humility? Where is this beauty?”

When Sheyan said those words, a third of the elves exhibited approval in their eyes and begun whispering amongst themselves . Evidently, they were moved by his final question .

The way elves deemed humans was rather complicated . Most of the time they despised humans, yet they would acknowledge outstanding heroes of the human race . One could see this from the marriage between the elf lord Elrond"s daughter, Arwen, and a human .

Of course, that human was tremendously powerful and accoladed by all as a great warrior .

Aragorn II, son of Arathorn II and Gilraen, the chieftain of Dúnedain of the North, wielder of the Andúril (an invincible sword), and heir of Isildur and crowned King Elessar Telcontar, the 26th King of Arnor, the 35th King of Gondor and the first High King of Gondor and Arnor .

Of course, Sheyan definitely couldn"t convince all these elves with mere words . Otherwise, the book would"ve been placed in the history shelf of libraries . It was impossible even if his charm was higher than his physique .

Still, a "+1" legend level managed to garner some approval from a third of the elves . This itself satisfied his objectives .

Although the elf leader remained expressionless, his slender finger was trembling faintly in rage . One could imagine the tumultuous state his heart was in .

Sheyan"s objective wasn"t to infuriate or besmirch the elf, but only wanted to rescue the old porter from the death penalty . Thus, Sheyan immediately added on .

“Yes, O respected elves, I acknowledge that picking fruits without permission is an absolutely lawless conduct, an exceptionally bad behavior . Therefore, we are willing to compensate 50 silver coins as an apology and to buy his freedom from punishment . I trust the benevolent elves of Rivendell will not oppose this . ”

The blue-robed elf leader glared at Sheyan menacingly . Still, he could sense the majority of his comrades leaning to the side of accepting the 50 silver coins compensation . Besides, they wished to remain "benevolent elves of Rivendell" .

Of course this elf leader was reluctant, but he couldn"t possibly insist to hang the darn old human in his indignant!

After all, Rivendell was a civilized kingdom . If he did that, his spirit will be akin to being corrupted like the Uruk-hais . Moreover, the elves may not heed his command willingly in the future . Nevertheless, he was extremely reluctant to set free the human just because of a puny human questioning his character; that will truly be a pathetic elvish figurehead .

Yet at this moment, a voice drifted in .

“Rivendell accepts your apology . ”

Sheyan turned around and his heart instantly skipped a beat . The one that just spoke wasn"t anyone but that middle-aged elf wizard, the one leading the exterior patrol squad who could detect the "Stairway of the Sun" in his body!

The elf wizard smiled gently at Sheyan . His smile was like a gentle breeze yet it caused Sheyan"s hair to stand on end . However, without saying anything else, the elf wizard led the two elf patrol squads and left .

Thus, the matter was unexpectedly and peacefully resolved .

Still beaming with astonishment, the young Segimli couldn"t help but ask .

“My human friend . If possible, can I take a look at your tongue? I suspect it is infused with enchanting sorcery . ”

Reef interrupted with sneaky intent .

“I suspect that old elf has an unwedded daughter . ”

“Get lost . ” Sheyan brushed Reef aside . He picked up and hoisted his heavy load upon his shoulder again, before trudging forward . Caravan lord Wilhelm and the horrified old porter quickly expressed their grat.i.tude to Sheyan and resumed their advance .

Very quickly, the caravan group transported the goods to their destination .

This was a seemingly remote public square which served as a special district for the elves . Hundreds of human caravan groups were resting here, awaiting the elven recipients of these goods to claim them .

Learning from the unfortunate old porter, the other humans of the caravan group became additionally cautious; not daring to even sit on benches and opting to sit on the ground instead . While resting, some humans popped open drink pouches crafted with animal skin and gulped down water that had turned slightly putrid .

Moments later, a few elven kids ran over while carrying fruit baskets made with fresh leaves and branches . The fruit baskets were filled with ripened fruits as they offered to the humans . Probably, some of the kind-hearted elves were moved by Sheyan"s description of his "thousand leagues travel", and dispatched their children to show hospitality to the guests .

Sadly, not a single worker dared to eat and shunned the few elf kids like they were snakes or scorpions, leaving the elven kids baffled and unsure of handling the situation .

Instead, Sheyand and Reef treated nothing as taboo and immediately gestured them over . They indulged in the fruits and evaluated the flavors, before beckoning the young Segimli over to enjoy the fruits with them .

However, the elvish kids secretly spat on those fruits and mimicked the rigid, rock-like postures of dwarves .

“I"ve never fancied fruits, not even once . ”

The few elven kids appeared rather curious about the outside world and bombarded the duo with questions . The kids were pure and didn"t despise them based on their attire .

Reef pondered a little and produced to them a white grade pistol as a gift . This pistol was offensively weak and its only merit was automatically creating a bullet every ten minutes . Reef acquired it the previous world and found it a pity in selling off . Moreover, no contestant showed any interest and thus he retained it for fun .

Thus, Reef hailed it as an arrowless bow and successfully obtained the favor of these little "flower pots" .

The little friends were in high spirits and naturally answered any queries of the duo . Sadly, the surrounding flora were ravaged by the playful little rascals . The few nearby elf protectors felt rather curious about their new toy, but were embarra.s.sed to steal items from kids and could only observe incessantly .

“When does the celebratory banquet begin?” Sheyan inquired of an adorable girl elf .

The girl elf had just test fired twice and replied with a rosy expression .

“It begins when night falls!”

Sheyan shamefully continued .

“I bet you young ones are clueless about the banquet"s proceedings . After all, my parents used to conceal matters from me when I was young . ”

A little elf was immediately fooled and raised his voice haughtily .

“I know it! The adults will first a.s.semble and march through every street of Rivendell, before the banquet will officially commence at Hyacinth Square!”

The elf protectors were listening to their conversation as well, yet they didn"t find it weird as it was completely normal to be inquiring about the banquet . Hence, they remained silent . Of course, they didn"t notice the incisive glint in Sheyan"s eyes; otherwise, they would"ve long approached him for an interrogation .

The sky swiftly darkened where the colorful enchanted ribbons hung across trees started illuminating resplendently . It was as though the world was brightened by gentle neon lamps which created a surreal sensation of stars descending onto Rivendell .

Evidently, Sheyan and Reef who hailed from the real world felt rather normal to this . Instead, the storyline humans were awestruck, and even the little Segimli stared at his environment in wonder . His mouth seemed to be murmuring crude vulgarities of the dwarves, as he forgot about stealing drinks from Sheyan"s "Endless Spirited Vodka" .

From afar, magic torches were ignited with brick speckles . The magic torches appeared like fruits from the trees and naturally a.s.similated with the besiding flora . Fireflies buzzed around in the night sky and complemented the hazy backdrop of splendid and magnificent elven houses .

In a distant street, a gorgeously decorated carriage was gradually approaching with ta.s.sels fluttering along it . It looked as though it was floating on the water like a fantasy, with snow white uni-horn creatures hauled the carriage along . The muscles of those lofty and herculean creatures were incredibly distinct and flowed like moving water with every step forward, releasing an air of dignified n.o.bility .

Four elves stood atop the carriage . The one on the left appeared strong and mighty, and had flax-colored hair . He was the Lord of Rivendell, Elrond . A dazzling sparkle could be seen on his finger, the ring Vilya, a ring almost as famous as the One Ring . This Rivendell lord was actually a half-elven; son of Eärendil, a great seafaring man, and Elwing, an elf .

(ED: Both Eärendil, and Elwing were of the half-elven, neither were a full elf or human . )

The golden-haired elf beside Elrond was Glorfindel . Despite his child-like countenance, his eyes contained a deep abstrusity of countless centuries, as though it could see through everything .

The other middle elf caused Sheyan"s heart to accelerate . Indeed, it was Sheyan"s target – the maiden Melody . Her appearance seemed to be unchanged while her unique temperament of innocence and purity remained vividly portrayed . However, her expression was exceedingly tranquil as though she had planned everything out .

Upon sighting sister Melody, Sheyan"s mood subconsciously improved . Yet when Reef pointed out the elf beside her, his mood was instantly sullied .

Indeed, right beside Melody was Prince Legolas, the son of Thranduil! A delicate mithril head ring bound his golden hair which flowed down like a brilliant golden waterfall . His perfectly lobed ears and majestic hair enhanced his incredibly refined impression . His sharp cheeks and distinct features exhibited his heroism greatly . His high quality silver-colored robe, weaved with an unknown material, exuded a scholarly and intelligent air .

He didn"t conceal his gaze towards Melody, showering her with attention every 10 seconds . One could observe the deep emotions in his gaze that undoubtedly shattered the hearts of many young elvish maidens in the crowd .

Without a doubt, few would be able to resist the killing might of this das.h.i.+ng elf . Melody smiled gently as she responded to the constant cordiality showed by Prince Legolas . They appeared natural and unrestrained, simply a match made in heaven .

Sheyan observed the celebratory parade quietly . Instead, Reef coughed and chuckled .

“I feel we ought to consider The Prancing Pony or Angmar now . Some things cannot be forced… . ”

Sheyan remained silent before grumbling .

“Since we are already in Rivendell, I must at least inquire of her intentions first . ”

Reef sighed and adopted the same sincere and earnest tone that Sheyan used when educating the young Segimli .

“Buddy, hatred doesn"t come without reason or cause, and so does love . Look at your current appearance, you will not even make the cut as a cheap Tibetan idol! You are at most "not ugly" . ”

Sheyan took out a mirror for a look and glanced at Prince Legolas, whose appearance could garner envy from even beautiful females . He sighed and scratched his head, and noticed a few ragged strands from the ropes used to tie the goods they delivered earlier .

Reef mercilessly continued .

“Then look at your attire . ”

Sheyan"s current disguise was ordinary porter clothes and obviously not western suits . Excluding the stench of perspiration, the fabric of the cloth were worn out and stretched . Slapping it would cause a cloud of dust to emerge .

The most cla.s.sic were the two different color patch that were st.i.tched at the b.u.t.t cheeks of the porter pants he wore . Such an appearance was practically undermining the overall appearance of Rivendell as well . He shouldn"t even be partic.i.p.ating in this celebration banquet of Rivendell .

Sheyan glanced at Legolas" high quality silver robe which was rumored to be woven from magic silkworms…this time, he didn"t possess the desire to sigh .

Reef added .

“Then compare your ident.i.ties . The elf is a prince, what are you?! A famous seaman?”

Sheyan remained silent .

Reef then sighed and said .

“Just notice his flirtatious but graceful demeanor, full of sincerity and emotions . You? A swindler, cheating girls of their virginity . Therefore……”

Reef added urgency to his conclusion .

“Let"s quickly prioritize our matters . We should incorporate that group of contestants and accomplish the main mission; this is more realistic . Besides, there are plenty of elven la.s.ses around!”

“Hais… . ” Sheyan took a deep breath . “Fine, let get to business after spectating this banquet . I reckon information about this main mission will surface during the banquet . ”

Reef asked doubtfully .

“You sure?? Boss, looking a hundred times won"t make something yours… . . ”

“Oh screw off!”

Hyacinth Square was exceedingly vast and could minimally hold 10,000 individuals . There was even a tiny lake in the middle of the square with aromatic water lilies sprouting out . The Square was next to a large mountain where the elves ingeniously incorporated the mountain edge with the Square, by constructing many pavilions along the mountainous wall . From afar, the Square seemed to be segregated into three floors and felt like a stereoscopic auditorium .

The Square was populated by thriving hyacinths of multi-diverse colors like pink and azure . The floors emitted mild glows that created a romantic, charming, and homely atmosphere throughout the Square . The romance of lovebirds would amplify while sweetalking over here .

The returning of Rivendell"s elves was a grand affair . This signified that following this, the number of elves would lessen by a third! A grand affair that could affect the state of affairs in Middle-earth and linked to the influence of the Dark Lord .

Hence, many other races of Middle-earth partic.i.p.ated in this banquet as well to persuade some of the elves from leaving . Nevertheless, due to the superior prestige of the elves, none dared to call them publicly into question .

The lowest floor of Hyacinth Square was designed to resemble a stage . The main ceremonial proceedings would be held there .

The second floor was reserved for representatives of different races or individuals with exalted statuses .

The third floor was for merchants and random individuals of various races . Nevertheless, the boundaries between races were clear and preserved the safety of most creatures here .

Lord Elrond stood in the middle of the Square and offered an elvish greeting to everyone present . He then lifted up his right arm .

The Ring of Air, Vilya, sparkled like the remotest stars of the horizon . A tremendous suffocating radiance then descended down from above and covered the entire Rivendell . In this instance, everyone felt stifled with reverence as though their spirits were being purified!

Before everyone could recover from the suffocating sensation, Lord Elrond announced with a husky voice .

“The Undying Land beckons for us . I see a great glow illuminating my soul every night when I sleep . The aurora I just created cannot compare at all to that of the Undying Land! Therefore, I have decided to leave and return to the embrace of Ilúvatar . How can one resist the calling of his mother! For the sake of returning, I shall sacrifice all costs!”

Elrond indicated his resolution to leave with this public declaration, killing off all attempts of persuasion from other major races of Middle-earth . This domineering yet ingenious method unquestionably held the charisma of a great politician .

Following that, came the performances of many flamboyant magic displays and light . For countless centuries, nighttime had been the most bustling period of Rivendell . Lights irradiated leagues into the surrounding darkness and dyed the sky scarlet like a wildfire .

The gentle glows of hyacinths continued repressing the surrounding darkness . Cheers and unruly chatter resounded clamorously, as the atmosphere crescendoed to a climax .

Sheyan was constantly attempting to locate Melody . He didn"t know why he decided to stay as well . Perhaps, it was just the silent contentment of watching her one last time from afar .

Alas, Sheyan failed to satisfy his desire .

Hearing the laughters of joy and intoxication, yet he felt utterly lonely within the sea of people . A loneliness stemming from the eventual farewell with that thin and naive figure . His heart felt excruciating pain .

All of a sudden, Sheyan felt the crowd calming down . He watched as the gold-haired Glorfindel strolled onto stage and announced with a faint smile .

“I wonder if we can spare a chance for Prince Legolas to share a few words he desire?”

Indeed, the moment Sheyan was waiting for had arrived .

Everyone present knew Legolas wanted to propose . Even Segimli knew prior to entering Rivendell . As such, Melody was definitely not clueless to this .

As such, for Legolas to announce in front of all, he would inevitably invite Melody up to stage .

If Melody wasn"t moved by Legolas, she would make an excuse to abcise herself from stepping on stage; the most gentle and appeasable form of rejection . But if she stepped onto stage…oh, everyone would start preparing for a wedding feast soon .

Knowing the logic behind this, the crowd became silent and spectated while smiling . The only one not smiling was Sheyan .

Right now, Prince Legolas had changed to a white long robe . Specks of twinkling glitters covered the robe and enhanced his sanct.i.ty . Many young elvish maidens couldn"t restraint their emotions .

Prince Legolas stood before everyone and issued .

“I have some important words I wish to say to an important individual . I wonder if she will fulfill my wish and grace this stage with her presence?”

Clamours erupted from the quiet audience while Sheyan"s heart continued submerging bit by bit . He could observe the figure he had been searching for, slowly inching towards the middle of the plaza .

Under the illumination of lights, Prince Legolas appeared suave and heroic . The elf maiden that stood before him was adorned in a splendid dress and similarly brilliant under the dazzling lights . She was absolutely stunning . Her purity and compa.s.sionate demeanor attracted all limelight within a split second .

Melody had ascended onto the stage .

In this instant, Sheyan finally realized that this elf maiden wasn"t who he expected her to be . He held no position in her heart, like the water flowing past a rock; silently leaving without a trace . A sudden wave of regret and melancholy filled his heart .

“The first time we met, you already drew my breath away…… . ” One must admit that Prince Legolas"s words were profound and his eyes permeated with love as he stared into Melody"s eyes .

Melody offered no resistance and allowed him to hold her hands . The prince then knelt to the ground and continued his confession . The crowd cheered for this well matched golden couple .

Yet Sheyan quietly looked down at his hands that had held hers in the past . He finally stood up and issued to Reef .

“Let"s go . ”

Not knowing what to say, Reef sighed and patted Sheyan"s shoulder . He knew his heart was extremely uncomfortable .

The duo turned to leave the square, but Prince Legolas"s expressions of love continued drilling into Sheyan"s ears under the a.s.sistance of magic . They were akin to needles poking his heart .

He hastened his footsteps but the confession came right before he could leave the public square .

“Will you allow me the privilege of being your lifelong companion?”

Sheyan"s leg trembled slightly as his heart swelled with unwillingness . He still harbored a sliver of hope that a miracle would happen .

Yet right after Legolas finished his proposal, Melody immediately answered him . A clear answer that had spiralled and solidified in her heart long ago . That was why she could be so forthright and decisive at this moment .

“No . ”

Melody"s voice rung clearly and echoed throughout the public square .

Her voice was mellow and gentle .

Yet her "no" seemed to be infused with martial might as it stamped down resolutely and firmly .

In this instant, the crowd was silenced .

The earlier romantic ambience and tender sentiments vanished completely with a single word .

Sheyan stood rooted to the ground in a distant place . His body turning stiff as his mind vacant .

He felt she was reserved, knowing the answer in her heart but embarra.s.sed to say it .

That was because he failed to notice Melody"s gaze . That warm, peaceful, serene and determined gaze . Would there be any s.p.a.ce for bashfulness to enter?

Bluntly phrased, the n.o.ble status of Prince Legolas coupled with his das.h.i.+ng looks, really left her incapable of saying no after painstakingly creating this grand romantic occasion .

However, despite the unexpected affliction to his heart, the composed Legolas didn"t react excessively . He stood up with style and maintained a respectful sincerity .

“And do I have the honor to know why?”

Melody smiled and replied .

“Some time ago, when I had yet to awaken as a twilight elf; when no mortal, not even my own elves cared about me; when I was imprisoned without none sheltering me, my protector appeared and stood by me . He guarded me unyieldingly, loved me and guided me… . . ”

Speaking till here, Melody reminisced the affairs of past and couldn"t hold back her sparkling tears . Still, she continued with an arrogance worthy of standing before the elves of Rivendell! In the faces of all of Middle-earth!!

“Regardless of the treacheries, he stood in front of me . Never once have I felt such warmth and sincere love . Be it an ordinary elf or a twilight elf, he treated me well . From then, my fate changed and my life, just like the towering tree and the emerald vines, shall be interwoven with his forevermore… . ”

Melody smiled with tears flowing as she narrated earnestly, her voice mixed with happiness and melancholy . In the midst of glimmering hyacinth glows in the backdrop, the crowd was moved to the very depths of their hearts . They couldn"t help but recall the impulse of their youth, the longing for true affection .

At present, Sheyan felt his nose turned sour . He took a deep breath to suppress the sadness welling up within . He didn"t expect himself to land in this situation after entering, but also failed to antic.i.p.ate that the gullible and innocent elf maiden would be so faithful . Her actions had been carved deep into his heart!

Such deep sentiments caused him to feel ashamed and unable to show his face .

Moments after, the golden-haired Glorfindel marched forward and calmly spoke .

“Since you"ve rejected Prince Legolas"s goodwill, then come down . The night"s ceremony must proceed and the time is tight . ”

Melody turned around and coldly issued .

“Sir Glorfindel I think you don"t understand one thing . ”

At this moment, to the astonishment of many in the crowd, a strange abnormality was happening between Melody and Glorfindel . s.p.a.ce between them seemed to be fluctuating with ripples and emanated a sensation of distortion .

Melody slowly lifted her left arm . One could observe that one her fair and slender wrist, was an incredibly exquisite bracelet that emitted a gentle glow .

The crowd instantly erupted with gasps .

Even a blind person could shockingly observe the extremely intense conflict between Melody and Glorfindel despite them looking tranquil . This conflict was so intense that even s.p.a.ce between them fluctuated violently!

“Every twilight elf will possesses their own principles and dignity!!”

Melody declared one word at a time .

“Perhaps people may change . One may dictate my decision, but that one, is definitely not you!”

Her long hair fluttered up as s.p.a.ce around her warped slightly; evidently receiving a tremendous amount of pressure .

By now, some could notice the clear brilliance s.h.i.+ning out from the Ring of Air, Vilya, on Elrond"s finger . Nevertheless, Melody continued striving to enunciate her words clearly .

“I, Melody Sunstrider, hereby swear before all of Middle-earth . I will await my protector"s return eternally, never to step onto the Undying Lands . Whoever wishes to go against this oath, shall be going against me!”

Blood streamed down the corners of her lips like tiny red serpents after Melody finished her statement, contrasting acutely against her crystalline white skin .

Her declaration instantly caused Elrond"s and Glorfindel"s expression to turn ugly, as an uproar erupted amongst the crowd .

In fact, the elves were shocked because Melody addressed herself as Sunstrider!

Bear this in mind, the elves were keepers of peace and tranquility . One of their indulgence was even playing the harp beneath the cascading moonlight, which was probably the equivalent of partying and hotpot activities of modern world humans . Many elves also exhibited faith to Elune, the lunar G.o.ddess . None had much relations to the sun .

However, during the ancient past, a group of elves abandoned the concepts of Elune and wors.h.i.+pped the sun G.o.d, Sin"dorei, instead! However, they were extremely rare .

(Author"s note: To explain who Iluvatar is, he is a G.o.d that created the elves akin to Nuwa for humans (in chinese mythology) . The Undying Lands were also created by him . To the elves, he is their living leader, parent and most elves wors.h.i.+p him . Meanwhile, the elves also welcomed the wors.h.i.+p of other G.o.ds like the moon G.o.ddess, known as night elves, and even the sun G.o.d . )

(ED: Author seems to be mixing LOTR with WoW here)

While for the non-elves, their uproar was mostly due to joy! Because their ultimate goal was to prevent the Rivendell elves from returning to the Undying Lands . Glorfindel and Elrond were similarly twilight elves, why wait for Melody"s appearance to return?

This was because though they had both awakened in the past, they failed to recall the journey to the Undying Lands!

The Undying Lands was located on the opposite bank of the boundless sea . Moreover, even after sailing through the sea to that coordinate, one still must conduct a solemn rite to enter . A wrong step will result in all being buried beneath the sea .

Normally, a twilight elf would first awaken their personal prowess . Once their prowess reach a definite degree, they would then slowly regain their memories and eventually attain the journey back to the Undying Lands .

Citing an a.n.a.logy of a cultivator . One must first cultivate to know the path to heaven . Yet Melody actually did the very opposite; first knowing the path to heaven before slowly cultivating . Perhaps, this was related to her status of being a Sunstrider .

Right now, many were rejoicing greatly after hearing Melody"s oath, and gloating in their hearts . “Lads, without a guide you still want to return? Just stay in Middle-earth and be content……” Actually, they were also harboring evil intentions, opting to keep quiet instead of mediating the conflict; hoping that Glorfindel and Elrond would accidentally kill Melody in their rage . Then this main issue would be settled once and for all .

Melody appeared as though she was exhausting all the strength in her body . She covered her mouth as her chest undulated intensely as though she was coughing violently . Gradually, she was forced to sit down like a lonely withered flower pelting down helplessly in the air .

Elrond adopted an ashen countenance as he stood up and said .

“Seems like our newly awakened twilight elf isn"t feeling well . Please escort her to rest . ”

Legolas who stood by his side was about to speak up, yet Elrond refrained from giving him a chance and stode off like a pa.s.sing wind .

The ceremonial banquet then proceeded with marvelous performances . Many figures became drunk and stupefied but still retained secrets that could never be revealed . Schemes floated through the minds of certain individuals as the ceremonial performances turned tasteless as if chewing wax .

Of course Sheyan no longer intended to leave . He stood in the darkness with invigorated spirits as his eyes flickered incessantly, resembling that of a processing hard disk in the computer .

Although Sheyan felt heartache while witnessing Melody being weakly and miserably subdued, he didn"t fl.u.s.ter or grow anxious .

This was because even without the exalted status as a twilight elf, Melody was still exceedingly valuable to Elrond and Glorfindel . That determined that she would be kept safely .

At this moment, Reef frowned and said .

“Boss, I"m afraid Melody is in huge trouble . ”

Sheyan shook his head and replied .

“No, do you still remember my earlier conjecture? Whether Melody would surface or not?”

Reef paused a little and answered .

“You are referring to that conjecture? Melody appearing even though she knows that Prince Legolas will be proposing . ”

“Indeed . ” Sheyan earnestly continued . “Although my reasoning was wrong, we can infer many clues from there . ”

Reef contemplated for a while and said .

“That"s true . Melody clearly doesn"t possess feelings for Legolas, why would she ascend to the stage . Is she merely trying to humiliate Legolas? Not really, she isn"t the sort of person . Her primary objective should be regarding her oath of refusing to enter the Undying Lands!”

(TL: The Sin"dorei elves are blood elves who wors.h.i.+p the sun G.o.d in Wow)

Sheyan nodded to Reef"s words and replied .

“Good a.n.a.lysis but not quite there yet . ”

Reef asked curiously .

“What else can you infer?”

Sheyan plucked a violet hyacinth and too a deep breath, allowing the unique and refres.h.i.+ng fragrance to diffused into his lungs . He then answered .

“Without a doubt, Melody"s speech projected Glorfindel and Elrond as horrible individuals, am I right?”

Reef nodded .

“Yes . ”

“This shows that they didn"t expect Melody to do so . Otherwise, a slight misconduct and they would"ve prevented her from ascending to the stage!”

Sheyan replied straightforwardly .

“We can deduce two clues from this . First, our silly Melody has become rather shrewd, else she wouldn"t be able to masquerade her act seamlessly and deceive the ma.s.ses, drawing the two old undyings into contention . ”

“Secondly, Glorfindel and Elrond must"ve been slightly negligent in the past . Although they treated Melody with utmost strictness, they were overconfident in believing she is well within their clutches . Thus, Melody had no chance to bring light of this matter to anyone, and could only seize the opportunity of Legolas"s proposal to voice her frustration successfully . ”

Reef responded .

“Actually, sister Melody"s painstaking plans is also for your sake . At present, she isn"t aware of your presence in this world and have no strength to resist Glorfindel and Elrond . Hence, she created such a scene before the entire a.s.sembly of Middle-earth . Her oath of not entering the Undying Lands is undoubtedly for this message to be transmitted throughout Middle-earth… . in hopes and trust of you coming back! She must have pondered earnestly over this matter . ”

Sheyan nodded and replied seriously .

“I know, a pity the information we have is too little . Otherwise, we should be able to dig out some pivotal truths behind the scenes . The elves of Rivendell abruptly migrating to the Rivendell…this alone is a major event worthy of record in the annals of history . A scene that didn"t appear in the original storyline, yet why now? I"m afraid we"ve modified the storyline in accordance to the maturity of Melody, there must be some other underlying elements beneath all these . Also…”

Reef urged .

“Also what?”

Sheyan paused briefly and continued .

“Not sure why, but Legolas"s proposal gives me a very queer feeling . Oh, have you seen idol drama on Mango TV(a chinese broadcast platform)?”

“What"s that?” Reef asked curiously .

“Forget it . You watch Desperate Housewives?” Sheyan shrugged his shoulders .

“Of course . ” Reef nodded .

Sheyan could calmly contemplate over Legolas and finally touched a doubtful point . He squinted his eyes and exclaimed .

“From the looks of it, it is likely Legolas"s appearance in Rivendell is not so simple . Indeed! It must be that!”

Sheyan sounded rather agitated .

“The crux of the matter likely pertains to Legolas! This is nonetheless just a mere conjecture but we shouldn"t tarry over here . Let"s seek out some clues to justify my thinking . Fortunately, because of Melody, the elves of Rivendell wouldn"t be leaving so quickly even if they wish to . Let"s get to business . ”

“Oh hoho, I really didn"t expect a pauper like you could defeat the prince… . ”

“You know nothing . In the face of my 1 hour 38 minutes, all enemies are but paper tigers!”

“You sure? I think 1 . 38 seconds sounds more reasonable . ”

“Screw off!”

Rivendell was a city with strict exterior but loose interior . After successfully infiltrating the place, Sheyan naturally found a place to change his attire and no longer cosplayed as a caravan porter .

Fortunately, this wasn"t altering the flesh and cost a minute amount of utility points .

As the saying goes, one"s demeanor determines one"s wealth . After modifying his look, he could pretty much access even important districts of Rivendell unimpeded . Still, he wasted quite some time to locate the little Segimli .

Due to the recent influx of guests in Rivendell, many taverns and entertainment hubs were opened for long hours . Naturally, these places were br.i.m.m.i.n.g with envoys from different regions and not crude professions like a porter .

It seemed like the young dwarf"s background was rather extraordinary . Moreover, the dwarves preferred congregating amongst their own kind . Hence, Sheyan soon acquired information on dwarf populated taverns . Fortunately, dwarves were easy to spot else Sheyan would have to search till his legs broke .

When he finally found Segimli, Segimli was seated and dealing with a wonderfully decorated fruit wine . Yet when he found out about the tempting array of dazzling fruits employed to create the fruit wine, he didn"t know whether to laugh or cry .

Apples, grapes, chestnuts, pears, and pineapples .

They were all edible but to combine all into wine… . . heavens!

Sheyan scooped a gla.s.s of fruit wine for a drink . It tasted a little like sprite with kiwi juice and left a rough aftertaste .

This fruit wine was brewed by the elves of Rivendell . It tasted sour and sweet but in modern context, its alcohol content was extremely low; incapable of satisfying the thirst of Segimli . Thus, the result was a large mess of empty mugs across the table .

Segimli was slightly drunk and didn"t recognize Sheyan on first look . After some recollections and a brief while, he muttered .

“Mister Seaman? Your attire is truly nimble . ”

All contestants would store convenient food in their party storage which didn"t cost much utility points . This was also in case of being imprisoned where they could prevent themselves from starving to death .

Sheyan didn"t dare to challenge the elf"s preference and ordered more food . He opened a pack peanuts from his storage and started to chat with Segimli . Segimli was naturally intrigued by the peanuts and the wrapper, but Sheyan easily explained that it was prepared with magic . Only an innocent Segimli bought in to his nonsense .

While feasting, Sheyan sneakily steered the conversation towards the topic of Legolas . He eventually said .

“Mister Segimli, I remember that you constantly stick with Mister Wright"s caravan eh . ”

Segimli nodded .

“Yeah hic . ”

Sheyan continued .

“Meaning you haven"t visited Rivendell before?”

“Yeah hic . ” Segimli answered hazily with a hiccup .

Sheyan then asked .

“That"s very strange . Then how did you get to know of Prince Legolas" intention of proposing during the banquet?”

The young dwarf laughed heartily and waved his hand intoxicatedly .

“I obviously heard it from Mister Wright! He knows because he reached three days prior . ”

“Then who did Mister Wright hear it from?” Sheyan urged .

Anyone else would surely start to suspect with Sheyan"s persistent questioning . However, this was an adolescent dwarf who was semi-intoxicated . Thus, Sheyan could easily ask anything without inciting suspicion .

“Mister Wright…… . hic . . heard . . hic from an elf customer . He says he rembere . . hic, the elf offered a hefty deal and carried a longbow on his back . Hic…ah I know, Mister Wright remembered the elf because the longbow was forged with impure mithril . Like a pegasus" unfolded wings, the longbow was supremely beautiful… . hic…you know my friend, all successful merchants possess a miraculous . . hic…ability – the ability of remembering all precious or profitable objects . Mister Wright asked me how many platinum coins a bow like that would cost…hic… . so I . . hic… . remembered . ”

Frankly speaking, Sheyan already obtained his desired answer… . . because he remembered seeing an elf with such a majestic longbow, like that of a pegasus" wings . That elf stood out amongst all other elves in terms of dressing or ornaments .

Indeed, he was one of Prince Legolas" personal guard .

A personal guard of the prince spreading rumors of his own prince proposing . That was indeed questionable .

At this moment, Reef transmitted some information through the party channel . Likewise, Reef had contacted some other members who were part of Wright"s caravan . As Reef wasn"t investigating any highly cla.s.sified matter, his methods were not stealthy but he didn"t expend much effort .

He found out that Prince Legolas had already arrived in Rivendell half a month back . Upon arriving, he developed a great pa.s.sion for Melody but the two hadn"t met before .

Nevertheless, the prince won the public"s approval in Rivendell due to his das.h.i.+ng appearance, enchanting eloquence, and refined elegance . Most of the Rivendell elves accepted his story of "love at first sight" . Moreover, it became one of the largest gossip in town .

With only a kilometer or so between them and within the range of the party channel, Sheyan swiftly responded to Reef; asking him to investigate on Legolas" relational connections .

In the Lord of the Rings world, communications was definitely not as developed as in the modern world . Nevertheless, Legolas was still informed and became a member of the Fellows.h.i.+p . This was indeed thought-provoking .

To be selected as a Fellows.h.i.+p member, one must be a prominent and ill.u.s.trious figure of their race . Citing an example, be a bodyguard from beijing, one"s skills must be of a national martial champion level . A secret yet nameless expert would fail to be acknowledged .

There was still a year to the inauguration of the main storyline, therefore, Legolas" reputation throughout Middle-earth was inevitably ill.u.s.trious and spread far by wandering bards . Moreover, this was an era that was extremely difficult for a puny gra.s.s to become a phoenix . Hence, the focus of already famous characters were more emphasized .

Thus, though it may seem difficult to gather information on Legolas, it was merely an affair achievable with several gla.s.ses of wine . One would even be able to inquire of the color of his underwear .

Very quickly, Reef transmitted new information .

Legolas had never been involved in any scandals .

After compiling all the information, Sheyan shut his eyes to contemplate and frowned .

“It appears my guess is correct . The key to unfold this may possibly be the main lead, Legolas . However, he definitely isn"t someone that will be easily fooled… . . ”

“I"ve never believed in love at first sight . ” Sheyan told Reef resolutely . “Furthermore, such a matter happened on an elf that expressed no love previously? Legolas" conduct indicates he was well prepared for this as well; reaching Rivendell beforehand to broadcast his affection to everyone . This all seems like a well-thought up plot . ”

Reef nodded .

“Indeed I feel like your guess is 70% correct . ”

“We can gamble as long as the odds are in our favor . ”

Sheyan smiled to himself .

The duo was seated inside a room .

This was an incredibly unique room that was shaped like an oval . The walls felt rather rough to touch and oval wall holes allowed the moonlight to pervade in . A dull oaken fragrance lingered around the atmosphere .

This was a wooden house of Rivendell . Verified individuals would be able to rent this place for a sufficient amount of money .

One needed to fork up 300 silver coins to rent a broken house like this .

Nevertheless, the benefits of renting were clear . Firstly, it was safe without the presence of orcs . Secondly, it was quiet and thirdly, the tree fragrance chased away mosquitoes and bugs to a.s.sist one in sleeping soundly .

Reef laid down on the awfully st.u.r.dy vine bed and muttered .

“Boss, actually we may not be able to exploit a chess piece like Legolas . ”

Sheyan delayed a little before replying .

“The clue regarding Legolas is indeed filled with dangers, but it is our only choice . ”

Reef frowned .

“Why so? We ought to be contacting Melody as soon as possible! She definitely understands the situation better and we can combine our strength . If Legolas is truly what you consider him to be, I"m afraid this would be extremely tough . ”

Sheyan calmly answered .

“The problem lies in this – how do we meet up with Melody?”

Reef paused a while and replied .

“Her character is playful and energetic . Now that Rivendell is so happening, she should be coming out soon . We can investigate where she lives and wait near the entrance . ”

Sheyan laughed .

“If it was before yesterday"s banquet, waiting to catch the rabbit may be possible . Yet now that Glorfindel and Elrond knows that Melody is hostile against cooperating, they will place her under strict house arrest! They are well aware the guests from Middle-earth aren"t willing that they should depart from Rivendell . Would they allow Melody to interact with such individuals?”

Reed became momentarily speechless .

Sheyan continued .

“On hindsight, Legolas is truly immaculate in his thinking . Prior to reaching Rivendell, he already determined the Melody is pivotal in their journey back to the Undying Lands . Hence, he cited "love at first sight" for his purpose of visit . ”

“Despite the manifold excuses of Glorfindel and Lord Elrond, with Prince Legolas" status and his clear pursuit of romance, who are they to prevent the two from meeting? They aren"t Melody"s parents . In this manner, Legolas can naturally be the "pavilion closest to the water to enjoy the moonlight first*", and obtain first hand information . Melody had probably deceived Legolas into believing his marriage proposal would be a success . With the marriage, Glorfindel and Elrond would have no excuses to separate the couple . Legolas can then stamp his presence firmly therein!”

(TL:*chinese idiom meaning benefiting from intimacy with an influential person)

“Such well devised planning and entrenchment, a formidable display of plotting! Hence, you understand why we must start with Legolas in unfolding this affair? Without doing so, we may not even be able to meet with Melody!”

Reef replied seriously .

“However, Legolas" intentions are unclear . With the current state, he isn"t on the same boat as Glorfindel and Elrond . Instead, his personal ambitions are thriving and wishes to control Melody himself! Our strength is insufficient, aren"t we wearing the tiger"s skin to interact with one? Careful lest we get swallowed up!”

“You are correct . ” Sheyan calmly responded . “If possible, I don"t wish to tread this path but a pity we are out of choice . Hence, before we can meet with melody, we must do our utmost to campaign . ”

Reef asked in confusion .

“Campaign? For what?”

Sheyan answered truthfully .

“Campaigning for a very simple affair . However, right now, we must first ama.s.s some protective talisman for ourselves . ”

Early the next morning, Sheyan and Reef were puzzled to discover a disturbance amongst the surrounding elves . The elves were hastily rus.h.i.+ng towards the nearest city centre to find out about an exciting piece of news .

The duo strolled out from the wooden house and took a few breaths of fresh air . Then, they heard a faint sound drifting in from afar . It was shockingly a famous tune of the real world – Für Elise .

The two immediately exchanged glances . Evidently, this was the work of those contestants . Not only Sheyan and Reef knew how to develop friends.h.i.+ps with the elves, the other contestants could easily do so too and reap huge advantages .

When Sheyan and Reef spotted the commotion, they saw Franklin and another contestant named Aamir performing . They appeared to be soloists after their main parties were wrecked, and probably joined the temporary party earlier . Nevertheless, they were two individuals that hadn"t clashed with the duo before .

Of the two, one must blowing on his saxophone and the other a tiny violin; playing wonderfully in unison . The elves stood on both sides were utterly captivated by this outstanding performance and applauded delightedly .

The realms could impart fighting techniques but musical instruments were definitely not taught . This meant that both of them played such instruments in the real world, which was their own innate advantage . In addition to Franklin"s illusory arts, the elves could behold a fantasy world of birdsong and fragrant flowers .

“If that"s the case… . a new path seems to have unfurled . ” Sheyan smiled with a twinkle in his eyes . Only unless necessary, he really wouldn"t wish to cooperate with Legolas . The crucial element was this – since there was no equilibrium in prowess, there wasn"t any basis for cooperation! Whatever that couldn"t be gained in the battlefield, would likewise be impossible on the negotiation table .

Sheyan originally schemed to wear the tiger"s skin to interact with a major player, while looking for an opportunity in the process . He planned to inform Legolas of being the errand boy dispatched by Melody"s sweetheart, wis.h.i.+ng to cooperate with Legolas . From there, he would request to allow himself to meet Melody and alert her of his arrival in Rivendell .

However, that plan came with a risk and many loopholes could arise . The greatest worry would be Legolas uncovering his ident.i.ty and seize the chance to threaten Melody .

Yet with Franklin and Aamir"s appearance, a new path had surfaced!

Reflecting on that, Sheyan strolled forward . During an interval of Franklin"s performance, he whispered .

“Friend, what do you think of that bone staff dropped at the beginning of this world?”

Franklin was stumped and offered a wry smile .

“Pretty good . Ah, but what a pity but your marketing is bound to fail…… . after my party was exterminated in my previous world, I fell into poverty as well without anything worth to offer . ”

Sheyan chuckled while observing Franklin .

“The staff in exchange for one favor, how bout" it?”

Franklin immediately understood that Sheyan and Reef had struck an immense obstacle . Seeing their valantry and deadliness during their combined onslaught on Yerna had left a deep impression on him . To be able to advance as a Growth-Hunter, his eyesight was definitely sharper . He naturally could tell that if not for those elves, Yerna would"ve undoubtedly perished!

Still, he inquired sincerely .

“What favor?”

Sheyan replied composedly .

“I will hum a melody for you . Record it and perform it at another area of my choice . I believe someone will invite you to perform somewhere else, and you should see the newly promoted twilight elf . Your mission is to relay a single message to her . ”

Franklin asked curiously .

“What message?”

Sheyan whispered several words which caused Franklin"s expression to turn sluggish . Not knowing whether to laugh or cry he muttered .

“This…man, that isn"t very appropriate . ”

Sheyan stared into his eyes and said .

“The elf wouldn"t know what those words mean, what isn"t appropriate?”

Franklin gazed at Sheyan lifelessly as he contemplated . He finally agreed but added .

“What if n.o.body invites me to perform elsewhere?”

Sheyan raised two fingers and replied confidently .

“Two hours . If n.o.body invites or contacts you within the two hours, that staff is yours . We can set a contract with the realm . ”

Sheyan spoke while displaying the staff"s attributes to Franklin .

Unable to bear the allure, Franklin gritted his teeth and responded .

“Fine! But I"m not a prodigy that can recompose the melody you hum and reproduce it straightaway . We should find a quieter place for you to hum and I will perform after some practice . ”

“No problem . ” Sheyan nodded .

“Then let us verify it officially . Should you violate the contract, then two equipments will be randomly drawn from you and donated to the realm . ”

After Franklin heard those words, his final few doubts vanished . Should the recipient of his penalized equipments be Sheyan instead, he would naturally suspect if the opposing party was scheming for his equipments . Instead, a donation to the realm meant no benefits to oneself, this was very rare indeed .

In the process of two individuals verifying an official contract, the contract will exhibit the one"s serial number and military rank unless specially requested not to . Franklin"s attention was poured onto the silver storyline grade magic staff, dreaming of his own transformation in strength… . instead, he briefly swept through the content miscellaneous details of the contract .

“Hmm a Reserve-duty Major, this basic realm contestant no . 1018 can sure promote swiftly . When I was a basic realm contestant, I was stuck at the rank of reserve-duty Lieutenant……wait!!”

“NO "reserve-duty"???!!!?”

“A basic realm contestant as an official Major???!!!! Holy, am I going crazy or the world is nuts?”

Being someone who survived a whole party extermination, Franklin was definitely a quick-witted individual . He immediately pondered over the reason of this contestant revealing his personal details – “Was he just careless? Or is this part of his plan?”

If would be fine if it was the latter, but if it was the former, Franklin may face the risk of being silenced for knowing too much .

Hence, he pretended as though nothing changed . At least, for the time being, he would accomplish this matter first .

Only by exhibiting his personal worth and capabilities, would others view him significantly and select him…… . .

After signing the contract, the three contestants headed off to a secluded corner .

At this moment, the neglected Aamir displayed a trace of jealousy on his face . In large parties, equipment was always a taboo subject . As the saying goes, many monks but not much gruel, the benefits would always not be equally distributed .

The magic staff enticed even an ex-party leader like Yerna, what more Aamir?”

Now it should be mentioned, why did Sheyan seek out Franklin and not Aamir?

That was because Franklin played the saxophone but Aamir played a violin . Naturally, to arouse the attention of Melody, a louder instrument would be more effective .

The melody that Sheyan wanted Franklin to play was no other but the "Song of Dawn" that Melody sang when she awakened as a twilight elf . She sung that very song while in the embrace of Sheyan, and even promised to sing the "Song of Dawn" only in his arms . The song was akin to her token of love .

Therefore, although Melody was confined without her freedom, once she heard that familiar tune, she would likely recall him .

After all, elves were creatures of music as well . Thus, Sheyan and Franklin found a secluded spot to prevent others from disturbing them, or others from learning the same tune .

Franklin was indeed gifted in music and despite Sheyan carelessly failing to sing in tune, he effortlessly recomposed the piece .

However, while Franklin was preparing for the piece, minimally ten individuals came streaming in from all corners .

Sheyan hadn"t seen the leader of this group before . The leader was wielding a s.h.i.+eld .

A dual-handed Tower s.h.i.+eld!

This Tower s.h.i.+eld was the height of a human and appeared awe-inspiring . Its grade was supreme and iron spikes s.h.i.+mmered coldly throughout its surface, leaving one with a sense of fear . Yet upon close examination, one could tell that the s.h.i.+mmering glow of the s.h.i.+eld was… . . dark blue .

At present, their location was a dead end shaped like a gourd . The person holding the s.h.i.+eld was nicely positioned at the entrance of the gourd where Aamir soon stode out behind . He pointed at Franklin and shouted .

“Am I not right?! That traitor is selling away information on us here!”

Franklin was stunned and speechless .

Indeed, it was the group of contestants that was encircling Sheyan and the rest . They sneered as they encroached in while taking up their best attacking stance .

Yerna hissed sharply from afar .

“Three morons, did you think that Rivendell is an absolute safe zone? The patrol elves pa.s.ses by this spot with intervals of 15 minutes . We even possess an MT blocking your only way of escape . 15 minutes later, even your corpses would be mere ashes!”

Facing this situation, Sheyan sighed and helplessly replied .

“I just don"t get it . Why does trouble always find its way to my doorstep . You guys are truly ignorant of the realm, treating a Reserve-duty Growth-Hunter MT with a measly dark-blue grade s.h.i.+eld as treasure?”

As the saying goes, scolding but not exposing one"s shortcoming, hitting but not hitting one"s face . Sheyan"s incisive words offended everyone and cut deep into the eternal agony of that s.h.i.+eld wielding MT . He was implying that that MT was originally a vice-tank . After the main tank died, he escaped with a decimated party and successfully a.s.sumed a higher post . Moreover, his relations.h.i.+p with the old MT definitely wasn"t as seamless as Sheyan and Reef . Even that dark-blue grade Tower s.h.i.+eld was probably purchased…hence, the opposing party immediately retaliated with a barrage of frenzied curses .

Indeed, while the unstable volcano was about to erupt with flames, Reef marched forth and stood before Sheyan and Franklin .

In this instant, the whole world turned silent .

The nightmare imprint on Reef"s chest emanated the dazzling glow of a Growth-Hunter!

Furthermore, he shockingly held a great s.h.i.+eld as well .

An MT!

This great s.h.i.+eld was as blinding as the scorching sun, emitting a brilliant dark-gold radiance that signified the dignity of dark-gold grade equipments .

The opponent who wielded a dual-handed giant claw to a.s.sault foes, was shockingly a Growth-Hunter MT who wielded a dark-gold grade s.h.i.+eld!!!!

“Still wish to fight? Seize your time you know, the patrolling elves will be arriving here soon oh . ” Sheyan calmly called out . Although he couldn"t see their faces, he could guess their spectacular expressions .

Their opponents held the advantage in numbers, yet Sheyan and Reef held no fear towards them . Formidable party skills, frightening equipments along the the 40% damage reduction of the realm regulation . Charging out was simply a walk in the park for them .

Furthermore, once the patrolling elves affirmed the instigator of this incident, those contestants would be banished from entering Rivendell!

Evidently, at this moment, the disharmony of a temporarily established party was exhibited greatly .

“I think this must be a misunderstanding . ” A raspy voice called out weakly .

“True that, true that . ”

“Wait, I just recalled a side mission that I urgently need to accomplish . ”

Since cracks were surfacing, everything else flooded out naturally . This murderous predicament instantly ended up in smokes .

Following that, Sheyan issued menacingly .

“Yerna, Aamir… . . I will remember your names . ”

The two individuals s.h.i.+vered a little as their complexions paled . The other adopted a gloating mentality towards the two scapegoats and dispersed as swiftly as they could .

Frankly speaking, Sheyan was pretty annoyed at this contestant mob .

They were unable to accomplish anything but liable to spoil anything, like house flies that constantly bugged the soul .

If not for Rivendell prohibiting acts of violence, Sheyan and Reef would"ve started a ma.s.sive ma.s.sacre already .

In the midst of mult.i.tudes of enemies and few friends, Sheyan could distinctively notice the obvious cracks within that temporary party . As for the obvious crack, it was clearly due to the absence of a strong party leader . That was the opportunity Sheyan would seize .

Despite battling a party with half the members being Growth-Hunters, they would still win! This sounded rather far-fetched but it wasn"t as complicated as it seems .

Once the battle begins, the duo would first reveal the party skills of their silver prestige party, before announcing that they were willing to recruit members . Right now, they were merely trialing for party members . Moreover, they would show off the terrifying HP and MP boost of "Asylum" and even the insane healing skill, "Gloryheal" . Even a formidable large party leader like Zi was dumbfounded, what more these brats?

That, was pure naked enticement .

Then, the duo would unleash their supreme crus.h.i.+ng might and teamwork, while Reed demonstrates what an invincible MT he is .

That, was basic deterrence!

With deterrence and allurement combined, how could that reserve-duty MT with a dark-blue grade s.h.i.+eld possibly capture the hearts of his members? How loyal could one be? Destroying such a temporary party was as simple as it sounds!

Nevertheless, Sheyan had no intentions to recruit new members . All his attention was now focused on Melody and thus he allowed them to go for now .

“The pesky flies are gone, let"s continue . ” Sheyan muttered calmly to Franklin .

Franklin was an intelligent man . Although he could observe Reef"s formidability and that he had encountered two large legs to latch on, he didn"t raise any request and focused solely on his music piece .

He knew that any unnecessary words could distance himself further from the two large legs . Right now, he had to demonstrate his capabilities and earn a chance for himself .

At this moment, the decisive Franklin uttered to Sheyan .

“I possess an illusory art ability . If great sir can supply me with some specific instructions on the ambience or scene, I can allow the audience to truly receive that sensation . This will enhance the success of this operation . ”

Sheyan was slightly moved and asked .

“Oh you really have such an ability?”

Franklin chuckled and replied .

“I"m a magician in the real world . Started practicing magic tricks since the age of ten, and by the time I entered the realm, I already possessed 30 years of experience . ”

“Since that"s the case… . . ”

As Franklin needed more time to practice the piece and wished to perfect it, the performance was rescheduled to the next day .

Sheyan and Reef separated with Franklin and decided to investigate more on Legolas . Although Legolas was now reduced to an option, they still had to take precautions against him .

According to the former plan, Sheyan sought out the young Segimli again . Meanwhile, Reef seemed to have become accustomed with another human whose family were adventurers . Through him, they managed to find out quite a few information .

However, Segimli appeared to be in a moody state today, running to a tavern early in the morning for some drinks . He was munching on some grapes while drinking mugs of ale, as though his only goal was to get drunk .

When Segimli noticed Sheyan, he squeezed out a forced smile and addressed .

“My friend . I"ve just contacted Mister Samu of the tavern, he is willing to discuss music with you in an hour . ”

Samu was an adventuring bard who stayed in a northern kingdom for more than 10 years . The taverns there were like his home and was an exceedingly well-informed individual . Most importantly, Prince Legolas also came from the Mirkwood kingdom in the North and a neighboring kingdom . Without a doubt, Samu would be one of the best sources of intelligence for Sheyan .

Still, he wasn"t in a rush to locate Samu . Instead, he sat before the young dwarf and earnestly observed him before saying .

“Segimli, you shouldn"t keep your troubles to yourself . Sharing it with your friend will make you feel better . ”

Segimli shot a grateful glance and, being a big-mouthed individual, immediately divulged .

“My clan has encountered some problems, my friend . It will soon be the Skifz Ascûd festival of the dwarves . ”

Sheyan asked .

“Is that festival important?”

Segimli replied worriedly .

“The Skifz Ascûd festival is held amongst the dwarves once every century . It is a compet.i.tion and the most exquisite artifact forged shall be deemed as the victor . Moreover, those who performed well will also be awarded with an abundance of reserves, and superb quality mines . In truth, my clan prepared a necklace, a staff and a platemail . However, I just got news from father that the necklace is not permitted for this compet.i.tion…… . . I"m afraid the end of the festival marks the start of my clan"s decline . ”

“You"re missing a single artifact?” Sheyan understood . “Is your Skifz Ascûd festival held tomorrow?”

“No, half a year later . ” Segimli shook his head .

Sheyan inquired .

“Then why not forge another one immediately? Could it be you lack a grand blacksmith?”

Segimli answered dejectedly .

“The Gimli clan of dwarves possesses the finest grand blacksmith of all dwarves . His standard surpa.s.ses that of those vile grey dwarves! However…our three main mines have run dry of ores . The reason we forged a necklace was due to the lack of materials . ”

Sheyan couldn"t help but asked .

“What sort of materials you lack?”

Segimly replied .

“Mithril, adamantium!”

Sheyan frowned slightly after learning of this . Back when he plundered the white wizard Saruman"s wizard tower, he harvested quite a load of rare mithril and adamantium . Sadly, Sheyan was unable to bring tose materials back to the nightmare realm and had to rely on Melody to store them .

Although Sheyan instructed Melody not to divulge information on these materials but to arm herself only, he felt the innocent and naive Melody would"ve spilled the beans to the elves by now . Thus, he didn"t harbor any hopes of that .

However, her conduct during Rivendell"s celebration had utterly toppled Sheyan"s perspective of her . He suddenly realized something . Melody"s growth could not be described in normal terms, besides, a twilight elf was one who will recover memories of past! That indicated that her current state was likely to be better than he imagined .

Of course, Sheyan wouldn"t take charge presently . After all, he didn"t know where those materials were stored .

Thus, he only probed further .

“So your family needs to forge a larger artifact? Seems like 50-60 kilogram of mithril or adamantium ores?”

Segimly shot a spiteful gaze at sheyan and replied speechlessly .

“50-60 kilograms??!! Mister! The entire reserves of mithril and adamantium throughout the entire dwarven empire is not even 10 kilograms! Do you think we directly forge the two treasured materials into artifacts? We only use them to enhance and strengthen, like adding salt to meat . If my family could even acquire 5-6 pounds of mithril and adamantium, we"ll be able to preserve our mines and challenge other clans with confidence . ”

Sheyan laughed awkwardly but his heart swiftly begun devising…… . .

Morning the next day, the well prepared Franklin commenced the operation .

To him, busking on the streets was all along a hobby . As an individual who delighted in music, he regretted not being able to use music to pay for bread, housing and family . Instead, magic tricks could but it still didn"t hamper his love for music .

The place to locate Melody was very simple . Why so? Because the exalted twilight elves would be given residence in a place called "Validantise"; meaning "bathing in starlight" . The elven constructs were already gorgeous and splendid . Yet the twilight elf residence dazzled majestically above the rest, having a unique flare visible from afar .

After Franklin and Aamir"s performance the previous day, the elves and other travelers welcomed such an activity . Hence, when Franklin lazily trudged along the pristine white pebble path while blowing on his flamboyant saxophone, he didn"t really cause huge commotion . Some of the patrol elves would even halt for a moment to nod their heads in approval before resuming their patrol .

A melodious tune blasted out from the saxophone and filled the atmosphere .

The mood crafted by this tune was neither tranquil nor graceful as the elves" adore . Instead, it released a strong bearing of a mighty gust blowing fiercely against majestic snowy mountain peaks!

Voluminous and endless, yet clear without sloppiness . It deserved convinced praises .

Franklin gradually skipped along the white pebble path as he blew, nodding and smiling at anyone he saw . The sound of the saxophone blended perfectly with the running stream water beside .

While playing his instrument, a thin halo extended out from his body as the rippling tune stretched through all corners; particularly concentrated towards the residence of the twilight elf .

At present, Melody was reclining on a branch-woven couch . Soft green leaves and vines tired around the branches, making it firm yet supple . Bubbles emerged from the clear waters beside her as tiny fishes and prawns swam around happily .

A light-purple vine bundled her beautiful hair up, and she wore a tender green feminine garment that occasionally revealed her lovely navel . Beneath it was a gra.s.sy green mini-skirt that was kissed with the style of both humans and elves .

A crystal and transparent goblet was placed by her hand, which swirled with exquisite grape wine transported from a distant place . Melody lifted the goblet from a sip of the blood-like wine, as her developed chest undulated faintly; revealing a slice of alluring white cleavage right beneath the collar . It was truly a scene for fascination .

Following the trail of her slender and fair crisscrossed calves, one could observe the slight pink shading over her jewel-like toenails . This ensured an adorable l.u.s.ter in addition to the allure which allowed one to relax the mind and enjoy . Her lovely legs were what Sheyan loved most to toy with .

The faintly audible wind sounds of a saxophone penetrated through the gaps of the branchy window .

Melody disliked the sound of that unknown instrument . On the contrary, she loved the graceful and subdued style of string instruments like the harp or the zither . Moreover, her twilight elf disposition allowed her to sense this .

The wind sound of the saxophone carried a strange enticement that attempted to pervade one"s senses .

“Get that balladeer away from my residence . ” Melody issued composedly . “I do not fancy his music . ”

An elf bowed politely and replied .

“Yes, my n.o.ble twilight elf . Your will is my command . ”

Franklin obviously wasn"t aware of the blunder he created . Fortunately, this impromptu section of his music ended and he once again reached the familiar chorus of the "Song of Dawn" .

Upon hearing that chorus, Melody was instantly stunned . She hastily called the elf that was just about to leave .

“Wait, recklessly banis.h.i.+ng foreigners will tarnish the reputation of us gracious and cordial elves, especially during Rivendell"s celebration . ”

Actually, Sheyan had underestimated Melody"s capabilities even further, or more accurately, underestimated the influence of a twilight elf had over other elves . Especially after addressing herself as Sunstrider, it created two distinct changes . Although many elves who held faith in the moon G.o.ddess of Elune were provoked, the ones loyal to the sun G.o.d would naturally flock towards her .

Indeed, though this elf guard was previously Glorfindel"s subordinate, he was secretly a believer of the sun elf G.o.d . Thus, was easily absorbed into Melody"s faction .

Moreover, Melody"s order didn"t raise any objections and he bowed deeply and returned to his post .

Melody shut her eyes, this time unresistant, to the familiar yet somewhat foreign melody that filled her mind . Slowly, she witnessed the horrifying platform of skin flaying on that snowy peak . Then, the secret forest that released toxic hallucinatory fumes beneath the scorching sun, followed by that redoubtable colossus, Oceanfreak Moria…her heart was overwhelmed with turbulent waves in this moment . Two crystal tear beads rolled down her eyes before she commanded .

“Invite this bard over, I wish for him to perform a song for me . If those guards of Elrond and Glorfindel refuses, use force! They"ve already restricted by freedom, am I to let them control my rights to enjoy music?”

It was already Elrond"s and Glorfindel"s limit that they could restrict Melody"s freedom of movement . Since Melody was likewise a twilight elf, their conduct had aroused disharmony and gossips throughout Rivendell .

If not for their overbearing combined might and reputation, there would"ve been an uprising long ago .

Since Melody"s current request was reasonable, Franklin managed to be granted audience with her without much hindrances . He didn"t delay at all and directly delivered Sheyan"s message for her, whose words instantly caused her eyes to puff up redly… . .

“Venerable twilight elf, I learnt this song from a human who current resides in Rivendell . The name is called "An hour 38 minutes" . ”

Therefore, a short hour later, Sheyan who was currently accompanying Segimli in the tavern received some delightful news .

When an elf a.s.sistant fetched a new gla.s.s of wine, the elf offered Sheyan a special bottle . Just when Sheyan was about to raise the wine for a drink, he surprisingly discovered strange fluctuations within the wine . When the fluctuations calmed down, a projection of Melody could be seen smiling at him .

Upon witnessing this scene, Sheyan immediately felt that Melody"s power in Rivendell had far eclipsed his thinking . He pondered while walking out of the tavern . After locating a remote place, he sat down idly on a stool .

Not too long later, Sheyan felt a movement from afar . After a brief while, a squad of patrol elves marched over . The leader of the guards was someone relatively familiar to Sheyan . It was shockingly that middle-aged elf wizard who could sense his "Stairway of the Sun" system .

The middle-aged elf wizard issued to Sheyan .

“Human . We suspect you of bringing forbidden goods into Rivendell . We will have to bring you back for investigations, you will be released before twilight tomorrow if found innocent . ”

He emphasized mildly on the word "twilight" but others would not attach any significance to that . However, Sheyan understood tacitly and obediently reached his hands out to allow the elves to probe with their nature magic . Soon after, the vines surrounding Sheyan rapidly grew and coiled around his wrists .

Under the guidance of the middle-aged elf wizard, the elves escorted Sheyan out of Rivendell and into the forest nearby . Along the way, individuals shook their heads and sighed when they noticed Sheyan"s predicament, reckoning that he was unluckily banished from the city .

Nevertheless, Sheyan knew that though the constricting vines appeared to be a restrictive magic art, it was loosely tied around his wrists . Occasionally, he could feel refres.h.i.+ng pulses pouring into his body that allowed him to move faster .

The elf squad finally arrived by a mountain cliff near Rivendell . Despite the elevated land area, a towering oak tree grew was sighted .

The tree was as tall as 60 meters, and its canopy was covered with sharp and pink leaves . Its roots stretched out vastly and loose branches drooped down to connect with the roots . The tree was blossoming with white flowers that had red stamen . The leaves were as large as a hand and thick main branches slanted upwards like thick "fingers"; looking vigorous yet gorgeous . It demonstrated a sense of solemn boundlessness in contrast with the horizon .

Be it elves or druids, the oak tree represented sacredness of nature . An emblem of strength and authority .

The oak tree was accepted for being extraordinarily infused with mysterious and special powers . The oaken tree acted as the central element during elven rituals, and praised for its wise and farsightedness . Its fruits were hailed as holy fruits .

Even when elf priests conducted rain magic, they would utilize the holy dew produced by this oak tree and wear its leaves as a crown . That would supposedly increase the success rate .

Upon arriving here, the elves" att.i.tude towards Sheyan became distinctly respectful . This was Melody"s training ground prior to her being restricted . A place that could isolate away prying forces .

The middle-aged elf bowed deeply before Sheyan and removed the vines before respectfully announcing .

“Forgive Annenia Cyathea for this crime, great sir . Our mistress, the great twilight elf Melody Sunstrider wishes to communicate with you under the aegis of the sacred Sindalor (the tree"s name) . n.o.body will know about this matter . ”

Sheyan stood before the oak tree and pressed his palm onto the bark of Sindalor . Instantly, he received a miraculous sensation, as though his heart and spirit was unexpectedly linked with Melody!

The bark of the oak tree felt warm and gentle . Touching it was like pressing against the palm of an elderly .

This was a totally new experience of spirit connection to Sheyan . Not only could he transmit his spoken thoughts, he could also convey his emotions .

He could sense that Melody"s heart was akin to the countless white clouds of the boundless azure sky . The sky was her heart and the clouds her joy, relief, calmness, and admirable pureness!

Despite pondering over these for far too long, when he finally could talk to Melody, he felt as though he didn"t know what to say . Amidst the turbulence of emotions, he released an extremely simple and normal phrase .

“I"m back . ”

“I feel happy, my protector . You"ve always appeared when I needed you most . ” Melody appeared to be just the same from that year, as she smiled beneath the trickling tears .

“I always thought it would take a decade or century to finally see you again . Yet Sin"dorei has delivered my lord back to me . ”

Sheyan could feel the intimacy conveyed over as he sunk into a brief silence before speaking .

“My G.o.d sensed that you were facing an imminent and tremendous danger, and dispatched me back to you . However, this is far from enough for me . I wish that that when I think of you, there I will see you beside me . When I need you, there I will find myself stroking your beautiful hair, kissing your irresistible lips, embracing the warmth and gentleness of your body… . . ”

Melody squeaked out a happy whimper and replied .

“I too wish to be by my protector"s side . However, Sin"dorei told me that my lord"s divinity is a high-G.o.d, other G.o.ds cannot impose on the territory of a high-G.o.d . ”

Sheyan"s eyes flickered fierily as he recalled the t.i.tle "One Hand to Cover Heaven" .

“Other G.o.ds may impose harsh restrictions, but to me, bringing you with me is absolutely not impossible!”

Melody chirped in joy .

“If that"s so, then I gladly pay any price . ”

Sheyan squinted his eyes and said .

“Of the elves, many are outstanding rangers and elf wizards . We must now make preparations, you need to convince more elves who can control spatial magic to join your banner . ”

Melody replied happily .

“After the banquet, I realized Glorfindel"s chief elder, Desirese Roots, was actually a believer of Sin"dorei . He is an exceedingly powerful elf wizard of s.p.a.ce . ”

“Excellent . ” Sheyan smiled gently and continued . “I can stay in your world for at least a month this time . Sadly, Lord Elrond and Glorfindel have restricted your freedom and we cannot meet . Moreover, as a human, I will at most be treated as a secret envoy of other Middle-earth factions, and be prevented entry from your residence . ”

At this moment, Melody released the barrier surrounding her and Sheyan . She directly connected to the spirits of the other elves and asked .

“My protector wishes to sneak into my residence, is there a way in?”

The few elves shook their heads unanimously and replied .

“Lord Elrond and Sir Glorfindel has placed many guards around your residence . Sir Protector"s strength is insufficient to be concealed from their senses, and as a human, it is hard for Sir Protector to blend in . Even if he manages to enter, without the shelter of the sacred Sindalor, we cannot prevent gaining attention from Lord Elrond and Glorfindel"s nature"s surveillance . That bard that entered just now is being investigated closely as well . ”

Upon hearing that, Sheyan was gravely astounded . “Franklin was apprehended?”

A deep remorse overwhelmed his heart as he urgently inquired .

“Is his life in danger?”

Melody replied .

“No, a festival watched by the One cannot be sullied by blood . However, he will probably be banished from Rivendell . ”

At this moment, the elf elder Annenia Cyathea abruptly interrupted .

“Insignificant and shallow fools! Sir Protector"s strength is not something you fools can fathom! He is a follower of a high-G.o.d . I personally witnessed Sir Protector in combat . There exists a hidden, bewitching, and terrifying power in him; utterly worthy of reverence! Even Lord Elrond and Glorfindel may not be able to defy that power!”

Melody chimed in .

“Indeed . I"ve personally witnessed the power bestowed onto my protector from his high-G.o.d . That power is unexplainable . Even Sehanine, the death G.o.ddess, was vanquished from attempting to claim his life in an instance!”

Sheyan smiled wryly and replied .

“The power you witnessed was a one time affair bestowed to me by my G.o.d . Nevertheless, I do hold the powerful that Annenia Cyathea mentioned . Yet this power is still at its infancy, it is still limited . ”

The elves gazed at Sheyan with great intrigue . Even Melody asked him curiously .

“What power do you hold now? My senses can be infused with the sacred Sindalor, will you allow me the honor of witnessing, my protector? I am deeply intrigued, what exactly is a power that can cause even Elder Annenia to feel such bewitchiching terror and reverence?

Annenia Cyathea knelt respectfully before Sheyan and exclaimed .

“Might Sir Protector display his might once more . Ever since sensing sir"s power, I"ve developed a wild thirst for obtaining it! Through my inadequate nature"s foretelling and the guidance of my G.o.d, I realize that only by following Lordess Melody Sunstrider, can I witness that heart-shuddering might once more! A defector of Elune, my faith now lies in Sin"dorei, all for the desire of this one chance . Sir please satisfy my humble request!”

Sheyan took a deep breath and answered .

“You all truly wish to witness this? This power advocates destruction, chaos, and abnormalities; yet to some life, it represents vitality, vigor, transformation and limitless strength! The power of pestilences, the strength of………evolution!!”

Within a split second, Sheyan unleashed his "Pestilence Monarch" ability . His heart rate accelerated by 200% as the filthy blood pumped through his "Stairway of the Sun" virus system obtained a 500% boost!

The wild ability of the "Stairway of the Sun" was discharged out frenetically . Behind him, a phantom of a gigantic "Stairway of the Sun" plant brandished its vines menacingly!

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!”

The elves widened their mouths in fear as their bloodshot eyes convexed . The elves were innately sensitive to all plants of nature . Hence, when an alien, strange, bloodthirsty, and abnormal plant like the "Stairway of the Sun" surfaced in their senses, it was translated into a shocking trauma to them .

In actual fact, Annenia Cyathea was an exceptionally low-key individual . His true prowess could be cla.s.sified at the peak of second rate elves of Rivendell (First rate elves are the twilight elves) . He only lacked a breakthrough epiphany to skyrocket his might to being a first rate elf .

“Why………blood and terror is gripping my mind like the vines of nature, yet I feel such tranquility and peace!”

“Why is despair both bitter and sweet? And fear so beautiful?”

“Is it my head? Or my beating heart???? What is that melodious and moving thumping sound?”

“The vast extent of horror, yet I do not desire escape but thirst for more?!”

Melody remained silent . She was carefully sensing . Although her personal prowess hadn"t fully awakened, her battle and nature sense had reached the apex after her awakening . Even Lord Elrond and Glorfindel were inferior to her in that aspect .

Unfortunately, her strength was vastly inferior and was akin to a weak little kid with unrivalled combat wisdom . When encountering a knight in full armor, a kid wouldn"t be able to rely on matchless combat wisdom and could only succ.u.mb to the bitter fate of defeat .

Although she was a twilight elf, she could quietly feel an unprecedented craziness emanating out from Sheyan . A deep negativity that was strangely evolving into an adrenaline tide of shocking delight!

Just mere seconds later, and Melody hurriedly urged Sheyan .

“Please cease it, my elves cannot bear such intensity . If this continues, it will cause perpetual damage to their nature sense . ”

Sheyan smiled gently and halted his "Pestilence Monarch" ability .

Moments later, the elves slumped to the ground simultaneously and panted violently . This was because they consciously allowed their to relax and held no resistance towards Sheyan"s halo ability .

If it was elves who possessed vigilance or hostility, they would at most be momentarily thrown off .

Of course, to an outrageous exception like Annenias Cyathea, his frenzied pursuit for a breakthrough caused him to spare no cost in allowing the "devil" to breed within him .

All of a sudden, an elf begun wailing incessantly as he viciously slapped himself while berating .

“I"m a shameless traitor!! To dare accept Sir Glorfindel"s task of gaining Lordess Melody Sunstrider"s trust and spying on her…… . . ”

Sheyan was particularly intrigued by this delirious elf . Yer after pondering briefly, he quickly understood .

As it turns out, this elf had all along been conflicted over his treachery, the painful dishonor nibbling away at his conscience . When the "Stairway of the Sun" was unleashed, the corrupt nature of the plant flooded out incited his negative emotions . Naturally, such an event then transpired .

Melody"s sigh could be heard as the mystic oaken tree Sindalor waved its branches . A thin, light-green radiance developed the elf and rejuvenated his heartache; allowing him to gradually recover from the internal agony .

Melody then issued .

“Obeying me or heeding Sir Glorfindel"s command will not be counted as treachery . Alas, there are some conflicts between our ideologies . You can tell him anything about me, but I hope you will keep the appearance of my protector as a secret . In my heart, his safety is paramount . This is my only request as a twilight elf, do you understand?”

Tears covered the elf"s face as he abruptly sliced off a portion of his hair, before kneeling and offering it to the oaken tree . This signified utmost subserviency . This was true subserviency, if she were to ask him to act like a dog, he would do it . Ask him to traverse to the treacherous wilderness of the earth, he would do it . Ask him for s.e.x, and he will do it……

At present, after displaying his "Pestilence Monarch" ability, this "protector" was even more mysterious and terrifying to the elves . If they were merely respectful to Sheyan due to Melody prior to this, then right now their respect was utterly genuine!

This originated from the fear of the unknown . Sheyan"s ability surpa.s.sed all logic and do could not understand how a human could unleash a nature energy that was so mystifying yet horrifying . Such power… . . that could distort their senses!

Furthermore, it seemed as though the elves who experienced the "Pestilence Monarch" ability had gained a new level of understanding towards nature . Their willpower and mental fort.i.tude seemed to have greatly increased in the realms of elves .

Sheyan then commanded them to leave . After regaining the serenity of their alone time, Melody hastily inquired before he could speak .

“The ability you just displayed, why do I feel such tyranny and frenzy from it? The aura, though weak, seemed to possess its own soul and will grow alongside you . Perhaps, it may devour your soul in the end!”

Sheyan had long contemplated over his "Pestilence Monarch" ability . This secret and evolvable rank 9 ability was still given only an "S" evaluation . Therefore, it was confirm that its evolving process would present myriads of obstructions or even some negative effects . Furthermore, the deadly viruses of the latter stages may even require accomplis.h.i.+ng solo missions to proceed .

Sheyan didn"t conceal anything regarding Melody"s inquiry . He explained the process and method of how he obtained the "Pestilence Monarch" ability to Melody, and even allowed her to personally witness the virus system within him .

After observing it, Melody swiftly understood and said .

“I got it . The consciousness of that diabolical plant in you hasn"t diminished . A fragment of its spirit is still hidden inside and will grow continuously . More importantly, all plants require sunlight but because it cannot obtain sunlight in your body, that plant will gradually present various sorts of negative influences . ”

Sheyan smiled and replied .

“Since my Melody understands all these, then she surely has a method to resolve this . ”

When Melody heard him addressing her as "my Melody", her cheeks blushed slightly and she murmured with a gentle voice .

“Extracting that fragment of soul isn"t difficult . After all, us elves possesses a natural disposition in sensing and interacting with nature . Therefore, although you couldn"t sense it, I could easily . ”

“As for the problem of sunlight, that is rather problematic . I only have one way of treating it . That is by using Sin"dorei"s curse arts to directly infuse sunlight into your body, thereby attaining the same results as sunlight s.h.i.+ning on the plant . However, that is not a full cure and it will only last for a single month . The plant must interact with sunlight to flourish . ”

Sheyan smiled faintly and replied .

“That means I do have a way to cure this . As long as you stay beside me forever, then I am cured . ”

Melody released a gentle snort which sounded adorable and enchanting .

Sheyan enjoyed her intent and suddenly remembered something .

“Oh right . My G.o.d has the ability to scry the path of your world . According to what I know, Elrond and Glorfindel should be obediently staying in Rivendell, and not plot to return to the Undying Lands . Yet the opposite happened, what exactly happened? Do you know?”

Melody answered without hesitation .

“They are anxious to return to the Undying Lands because Lord Elrond may perish soon . ”

“What?!” Sheyan exclaimed in shock . “How can that be? Although Lord Elrond is a half-elf without immortality, his lifespan shouldn"t be so short!”

Melody replied .

“During the days after your departure, Lord Elrond suffered a fatal ambush outside . The ones that ambushed him were also believers of your high-G.o.d . They allied with the Witch-King of Angmar to steal the Vilya . During that battle, they even managed to suppress some of the excellent Vilya"s might . Although Lord Elrond managed to withdraw from their a.s.sault, he was gravely wounded and his vitality nearly exhausted . Without returning to the Undying Lands, he can at most live for another five years . ”

When Sheyan heard that, his heart was filled with waves of shock .

Evidently, the storyline was modified ma.s.sively again . A group of powerful contestants could actually challenge an invincible storyline character like Lord Elrond . Although they failed in the end, based on the fact they could gain the a.s.sistance of the Witch-King of Angmar, they definitely weren"t ordinary contestants .

Sheyan swiftly reflected on the contestants he interacted with, yet none of them seemed to possess such power . Therefore, only one logical explanation remained – there was another group of contestants that entered this world . Most likely, those contestants would on the opposing end of their mission .

For example, the realm now requested Sheyan"s group to acquire adequate qualifications before a.s.sembling at The Prancing Pony or the dwarven outpost at the outskirts of Angmar . Perhaps, the main mission of the other group would be to slay individuals there or obstruct Sheyan"s group!

“If that"s the case……” Sheyan solemnly mused . “We can"t afford to spare those dumba.s.sess, I must a.s.semble them! At worst, they can be employed as cannon fodder!”

Melody spoke once again .

“Actually, Glorfindel detests the Undying Lands . He is more interested in remaining in Middle-earth . However, Lord Elrond managed to allure him with the position of Lord of Rivendell and the Ring of Air, Vilya . He succeeded in acquiring the full support of Glorfindel, that explains my present state of misery . ”

After a brief conversation, Melody was about to exhaust all her magic powers to sustain the spirit link .

At this moment, Sheyan urgently asked an extremely crucial question .

“Do you still have the adamantium and mithril we plundered from the White Wizard Saruman?”

“Ah, yes I do . ” Melody felt rather awkward upon hearing that .

Sheyan smiled and said .

“You"ve really matured . You didn"t tell others . How much adamantium and mithril do we have left?”

Melody bashfully answered .

“This…how much we obtained then, is how much is left . Don"t scold me!! But I did plan to tell some other elves . ”

Sheyan answered speechlessly .

“Then… . . why didn"t you?”

Melody answered weakly .

“Because……uh, someone forgot where she buried it . ”

Sheyan immediately felt a headache… . . coupled with grief and indignation .

“What! How can you forget that?!”

The two conversed until Melody exhausted all her magic power before bidding farewell .

Several notions swam within Sheyan"s mind as he turned to face the other elves .

“A twilight elf facing such miserable humiliation, losing all her freedom and authority in Rivendell . Don"t you feel ashamed?”

The elves did feel rather ashamed and sat around dejectedly .

Sheyan noticed their expressions and revealed a satisfied countenance . He then issued .

“Very well, as the protector of Melody Sunstrider, I will definitely rescue her from this adversity . This will be an arduous process filled with sacrifices . Nevertheless, I shall advance courageously! My strength alone isn"t sufficient to vanquish the shadows around Melody Sunstrider, therefore, can I trust you lot? Will you lend me your strength?”

The elves simultaneously cast reverential gazes at Sheyan . They quickly half-knelt and declared unanimously .

“For the glory of Sin"dorei!”

Sheyan nodded with satisfaction and announced .

“Thus, I shall need your a.s.sistance with some matters…… . ”