From the shadows of the earthly world… your gaze has awakened something.
Do you dare to continue reading the writings of this forbidden novel?
So listen carefully, curious soul.
I've opened a digital temple on Ko-fi.
With a simple offering of $1, you will help me invoke sacred illustrations:
authentic portraits of the beings that inhabit this story.
But every pact deserves a reward:
The faithful will receive personalized, unique images… and perhaps, a secret reserved only for the chosen few.
[Make your offering here]
---------------
With an atmosphere where Radiant Hayato neither took the lead nor let anyone else do so, they entered a stalemate.
Javier, who stepped forward, clarified his position.
—I think there's a misunderstanding here—.
They all turned to look at a young man who could be his grandson. With a calm demeanor, he pointed to his chest with one hand.
—I came today to clear up two things. First, the misunderstanding with Radiant Hayato-sama and to avoid getting involved in conflicts caused by others. Second, to make it clear that I have no intention of serving any clan—.
As soon as the second point was clarified, a mutual understanding spread among the eight goldfish. And Javier, who understood as he saw how the intentions in each of their eyes shifted to a threat that needed to be eliminated, said.
—I won't join any clan, but that doesn't prevent me from working with you—.
The most volatile and without a reputation to care about, with his hands in his pockets and a threatening posture that would be enough to intimidate with his aura and size, threatened him.
—And what if we take them all away first?—
—And it will be of some use to them—.
With those words, any negative attitude towards Javier subsided.
It was well known that the arcane energy in the environment was diminishing and that there were no longer talents like those of yesteryear and fables they had heard as children.
{If you think you can benefit from my knowledge, go ahead. But you have the talent to reproduce what I just did}
Understanding the message, the eight, although possessing the greatest reserves and knowledge from their golden years, could no longer reproduce any remarkable achievements in the field of arcane magic. Even they understood that in the future, the Toritos and Yukino would compete for leadership in Japan, given their work in the technological field combined with the integration of arcane energy.
—What guarantees do we have that some foreign clan didn't come and convince you to go with them?—
Unable to leave behind an uncertainty that could not be changed at their convenience or managed, Yukino Jyn's words were something that each of them kept in mind.
—It seems my words haven't been understood; there's no one in the world who can convince me to work—.
Superb to the ears of the eight golden fish, all of whom must sharpen their senses to hear.
—Big words for a boy who barely understands the world. You think your petulance will be tolerated because you're valuable—.
—Negima Kenta-sama, it's not arrogance. It was enough for me to follow a solitary path that has already ended. The arcane knowledge and tools I can create won't be of much use in 100 or 200 years' time with technology, and that's the best-case scenario. The world I see is just that of shipwrecked sailors clinging to the best plank to stay afloat, but everything is useless with the passage of time—.
—Well, these shipwrecked people won't let anyone take it from them until they reach dry land—.
—Kenta…—.
Standing next to Nagima Kenta, Lingh Blaz looked Javier up and down, who remained unfazed by the pressure from the two of them.
Understanding that it wasn't the way to endure his mere presence, which would make the weak-willed wet their pants, Light Blaz asked him.
—And what do you propose, if you don't plan to follow anyone?—
—Blaz!—.
"I understand your frustration, but, as young Javier said, even if we take away his knowledge, we can never replicate what he did. That's why it's better to work together instead of isolating him."
-Shameless fisherman, you want to trap me in your net and put me under the orders of the 8 golden fish, very well I will play your game, in the end the one who benefits the most from this is me, I will get the most out of them-.
Not knowing Javier's thoughts, but if I had known, I would not have hesitated to kill him.
Javier took a list out of his pocket.
-What is it?-.
—I like old things—.
If only Ryuto were present, he would realize that the sheet he had given to Light Blaz was the same one that Javier gave and returned because he could not provide it, as they were almost nonexistent and worthless unless you were a collector.
—What meaning do you want it to have?—
—My fee is based on collecting items from the golden age for an arcane mage. I intended to buy them or find them at auction, but a friend told me it was something only a collector or large clans would possess. Of course, I'm not asking for everything on the list, but I would like one or three items from it.—
—And what if we deliver it to you?—
—I will make a single item for each one: regeneration, psychic, attack, defense, strengthening, nutrition, detoxification, dimensional pocket, etc. I can include some of them, or if you have any preferences you can tell me—.
Stunned, with their mouths open, Javier finally said.
—Now you can let me into the dungeon of the exodus—.
Looking at each other, they returned their gaze to Javier, who seemed much more excited.
—I don't know what your rush is to enter the exodus dungeon, but we haven't finished discussing your treatment yet—.
"Ah, why don't we simply draw up a contract? As long as it's not too demanding and you allow me to act freely within Japan. I also promise not to interfere in clan affairs. Additionally, I require eight safeguards, in case of any incidents where we clash. As your rune master, I will create interspatial rings, repair any objects you possess, and I can also create rune formations for defense, killing, training, and so on. I will charge half price for all of these things, and as my first clients, I can also help train the younger members of your clans. I may not be like a rune master, since talent isn't the only requirement for learning. You can also pay me with antique items like those on the list, or books from that era. And let's not forget that I have free access to all dungeons opened within Japan."
Leaving them speechless as they listened to Javier speak, Okobi Ayano, understanding the points, and like a top informant who has ears everywhere, even outside of Japan, stepped forward.
—You want eight safeguards so we don't kill you and you don't kill us either—.
—Yes. You may not know, but a runemaster is not just a title. I can cause a lot of damage if given the time and resources, but that's tedious and causes problems—.
Okobi Ayano, beginning to understand Javier's mindset and interests, continued.
—...And if you stick your nose where it doesn't belong, how do we get compensation?—.
—Well, if I can resolve it with my knowledge or something I can do, I have no problem compensating them. But, if things escalate to the point of someone I'm protecting being murdered, I would listen to both sides. If I recognize that they need my protection, I will use safeguards as a last resort, if negotiations fail—.
-Very good-.
He was the first to approve, Negima Kenta. Not surprising, given Javier's diplomatic manner, the others, considering any potential losses within their sphere of influence, agreed.
—The second point. What do fossils and books cover with the value of your runic objects?—
—It depends on what's written in the book. On the other hand, with fossils, I can create a dozen interspatial rings, with a diameter of 5x10 and a time of 10x1. I can also create runic formations or runic weapons—.
—We accept—.
—I accept—.
Responding in unison, Lingh Blaz said that no one was surprised she accepted, since acquiring runic items for such an affordable price—like getting rid of something gathering dust in the clan's coffers—was advantageous. But upon hearing Torito Aiko's voice, everyone turned to look at her, as they all knew how obsessed she was with her research.
—It seems we're making great progress—.
Javier said cheerfully, seeing that everything was going smoothly.
—Did you say something about training our young people? In what subject are you referring?—
—To be honest, many of those I've seen lack the training to control their arcane energy. I can also help them improve in what they already know, and well, we'll see what I can help them overcome—.
—You don't sound trustworthy at all—.
With a stiff smile, in response to Okobi Ayano's comment, she answered him sincerely.
—It's because it would be the first time teaching other people—.
—... We'll see what the future holds. As for your moves—.
"If they want to put me under 24/7 surveillance, I have no problem with that, as long as I'm outside my doors."
—... Once this entire expedition to the dungeon of exodus is over, you will have a contract with several guidelines that you must follow, while we respect your free will—.
—Okay, I have no problem, as long as it's not disadvantageous to me. Now I have a free pass—.
—Before that—.
Disgust, at the sticky voice of Radiant Hayato, who, like a jester, with his Machiavellian smile, addresses one of the eight golden fish.
"Some issues may already be settled. But entering any dungeon is no walk in the park. So…"
A cynical sadist, he seemed more comfortable in the atmosphere of being hated, not caring that Ryuto Korei slapped the hand that tried to rest on his shoulder.
—...How about a fight with one of the Ryuto? After all, they were the ones who gave the kid Javier the pass—.
The surprise turned into anticipation for everyone present. Javier, for his part, was annoyed by the way she called him "boy."
—You, how tea…—.
—I think it's a very good idea—.
Doubting that he was mishearing, Ryuto Korei looked at everyone else who was equally puzzled by Radiant Hayato's malicious suggestion.
—Negima-sama! Why would I accept such nonsense? I may have given him one of the few entry slots, not knowing his abilities as a runemaster, but sending him into danger is like eating the hook before you catch the fish—.
—I don't agree with that decision either, Negima-sama. Letting him enter the dungeons is no laughing matter; it's already difficult enough sending our offspring away and having many not return—.
—You're implying that our practices are unnecessary—.
Pale under the pressure of Ligh Blaz's bloodlust, she refused to be intimidated or to tarnish the title she received to rise as leader of the Okobi clan and be known as the intertwined Ayano.
—...I prefer not to discuss these matters openly. But, you should have read the annual reports… The unique rarities that dungeons provide are no longer plausible if the losses outweigh the benefits—.
Unchanging to others and acquaintances, with that cold expression that prioritizes the eight goldfish and not as an individual.
But the person named Ligh Blaz understood, and it was one of his concerns. Each report he received generally didn't seem obvious, but analyzing the human losses individually, it was no joke.
It was estimated that for every 10 individuals that entered each clan of the eight goldfish, 6 survived.
Of the 80 highly trained individuals, with abundant resources, selected to be the backbone of each clan, only 32 individuals emerged who were valued as that 1% among all the clans.
But that filter was double-edged, an open wound that kept bleeding.
—Understandable, but if that's what worries you, wouldn't it be better to bring in a specialist like a rune master?—
Frowning at the contradiction Ligh Blaz was saying, Asai Dachi, seeing that things weren't progressing, said.
—I support the idea; not only will he be a good ally, but we can also verify what a rune master truly is—.
—In my youth, I read in documents about the exploits of the rune master Zhao in battle, so it would be gratifying to be able to see young Javier, show what he is made of, and not have to worry about him losing his life so easily—.
Perplexed to hear the two highest-ranking officials approving her entry into the exodus dungeon, Okobi Ayano couldn't believe it. She looked at Ryuto Korei, who approached Asai Dachi, who was also leaning forward to discuss her decision. Two of the eight were still silent, but in her eyes, she already knew what decision she had made.
Letting out a desperate sigh, Okobi Ayano told them.
—...If that's what they decided, I don't have to bother wasting my breath—.
Withdrawing from the discussion, Ligh Blaz and Negima Kenta approached Ryuto Korei to choose one of the best arcane mages in the clan.
Meanwhile, Javier watched the argument with amusement.
"As always, those at the top do everything their way, without asking those below. Well, I'm not complaining, since I did the same thing when I was the head of logistics at the company; I couldn't care less if someone got sick. After all, if I'm having a bad time, everyone's having a bad time, hahaha!!"
Ruff! Ruff!
—Mm? Finally you're free of the puncture, calm down. Try not to make so much of a fuss or I'll do it again—.
Woof!
Asai Yuuko, who had kept to herself with Lola on her back, my owner and pet, who seemed to be communicating, laughed when she saw Polaris clinging to Javier's shoulder.
—Do you find me that funny?—
—A little. You talk a lot about not liking her, Polaris, but look how much you spoil her—.
—Hmph, I don't like dogs, but I've already taken Polaris in and, as a member of the Valderrama family, I'll look after her just like I would the Empress, but she doesn't like me, she spends more time with Yami—.
—Ehehe, they say that animals are the personification of their owner—.
—Geh—.
—Ehehehe—.
Smiling as I watched her laugh, I tried to change the subject.
—By the way, is it okay if you don't come near?—
Understanding Asai Yuuko, her vision was based on the gathering of young people from different clans who share and differ in age.
"There's no need. Many of you here are new to the Exodus dungeon, and we've already had a meeting before coming to Tsukiyo Temple. You know what to do once inside. This small banquet is for the different clans, who will share the same fate and also the last supper, to chat among themselves."
Surrounded by a solemn atmosphere, Javier stopped looking at her and saw the faces of young men and women who were curious about the acclaimed rune master who was now going to face an organized fight.
Having chosen the one who was going to test Javier's strength, Ligh Blaz approached and said before leaving to his seat.
—Show me what a runemaster is capable of. Just like the legends—.
Nodding, she passed it to Polaris, who tried to make the task difficult with her claws, but in the end gave it to Yuuko who held it.
—Mm, I must say I felt anger when I found out that one of the limited slots was given to a complete stranger, even more so when I found out that it was someone outside the clan—.
In front of Javier stood a young man, dressed casually, like most of those who were going to participate, with the distinguished emerald dragon emblem embroidered on his shirt sleeve.
—Oh, how do you feel now?—
He asked while examining the young man's expressions, which contained both happiness and a ferocity for fighting.
—Excitement! As a child, I often read the Book of Losses. The profession of Runemaster was one of the most talked about, being a specialist of divine level. According to the writings, this profession was highly valued by the Gods; it is even said that many dungeons were created by this profession. To test my martial skills is an honor. I only hope I will be good enough!—
A great arcane yellow energy erupted, blurring all other colors until only a radiant gold remained. And like raging waves, the pressure pushed everything in its path; for Javier, it was just a strong wind ruffling his hair.
Immediately, deafening booms and explosions erupted, making the ears of the spectators tremble.
It launched like a comet.
—Great Solar Flare!—.
He roared, appearing in the blink of an eye, Javier, launching an upward kick to the chin.
Javier dodged the blow with barely a movement of his head, but for a moment he was disoriented. The young man took advantage of the opening: with his hands on the ground, he spun his body, throwing spinning kicks. But Javier managed to stop them before they gained strength and speed, at the cost of feeling his arm go numb, as if he had been electrocuted.
Without missing a beat, the young man used only the strength of his arms to leap and kick Javier's unprotected shoulder. The blow resounded like thunder, expanding in waves to the surrounding area, which felt it like a sharp blow to their gut.
Even in mid-air and without missing a beat, the young man is flexible enough to move like a snake. His leg, like the scythes of a mantis, used the back of his knee to tighten around Javier's neck, and with a violent twist of his entire body, the move was executed.
Crack!
—Wow… you guys really don't beat around the bush—.
Javier whispered weakly as his neck snapped with a macabre sound.
Stunned, the young man jumped back, creating some distance.
—Are you wondering why I'm not dead?—
Javier straightened his neck with an unnatural cracking sound.
—I felt myself break it. But it doesn't matter anymore. You're still standing, I just have to decapitate you to see if you regenerate from that too—.
—I thought it was a skills exhibition…—.
—Entering a dungeon makes no distinction between important and unimportant. Once inside, there are no distinctions. Only our comrades in arms can save us. If you die, it's because you lack skill… and you'll drag your entire team down with you.
The young man spoke with such calmness and coldness; the conviction in his words was not something a twenty-five-year-old could say with such indifference.
—… I understand. It seems I took it too lightly—.
He murmured, letting out a deep sigh.
Javier, who had never been in battles where his life was truly at stake, beyond the times he'd been shot in the legs or arms when he was still human, still remembered that feeling that shook him to his core: the Hentai God's gaze of hatred that transcended time and space. He could no longer forget that gaze that seemed to have him, just a few meters away, the God of War.
Once again, he displayed a pathetic but dangerous murderous intent. To mortals, it was like standing face to face with a predator.
Ryuto Kaito, who was waiting for his opponent's move, sensed something strange: he could see dozens of gaps in Javier's defense, places where he could deliver a fatal blow... but something didn't add up.
"What are you waiting for...? It's buying time to regenerate, but I don't notice any fluctuation in its...!"
—Heh, heh, heh… you damned monster. So you got serious—.
She whispered, trembling, unable to stop herself.
Although his mind saw dozens of openings, his body refused to move. He felt they were all death traps, feints designed to ensnare him and kill him without remedy.
—Tch, don't mess with me… I didn't survive death just to chicken out now!—.
She screamed, biting her tongue furiously, to regain control of her body, letting a trickle of blood slide down her chin.
—Defend yourself!—.
The moment Javier issued his warning, he was already in front of him, who could still see the blurring image in the background. Now, facing a devastating punch that he felt was impossible to dodge or run away from, his next move was a full-throttle attack.
—Don't underestimate me! Seven Torn Stings!
Without hesitation, Kaito channeled all his arcane energy into a brutal counterattack. Seven thunderclaps shook the field; the temperature soared to over one hundred degrees in an instant. Their fists collided, an impact that unleashed a gale.
The tables and the slaves were sent flying into the sky. The other attendees, seasoned warriors, used their own arcane energy to stand firm, like great mountains cutting through the wind.
Everyone watched the scene without daring to even blink: Ryuto Kaito was thrown backwards, enveloped in a cloud of blood.
-Not yet!!!-.
Kaito roared, his eyes bloodshot.
Numbing the pain with adrenaline and the will to not go down without a fight, even after losing his arm, exquisite arcane armor covered his body. Somehow, he regained his footing: he planted his feet firmly on the ground, halting his slide, and a spear emerged in his hand as he chanted an incantation.
—Flow!! Waterfall!! He who summoned the emperor, he who saw the human in disgrace… fortune is tortured by the abyss of ambition! Winged Dragon, Lord of Thunder!!—
Surrounded by mystical waters, his body was enveloped in the form of a majestic winged dragon, symbol of a noble and wild race that soared through the skies in a dance of untamed grandeur.
Javier, seeing how his opponent unleashed his ultimate technique, couldn't help but get excited.
—Ahahaha! Nothing less was expected from a Ryuto. Earth, plus water… what emerges is a swamp. Swamp Whirlpool!—
Creating runes with his own energy, Javier summoned a gigantic whirlpool of muddy water that emerged from nowhere.
BOOM!!
The noise was brutal, leaving some bleeding from their ears.
The Winged Dragon, Lord of Thunder, crashed head-on into the Swamp Whirlpool. The impact unleashed thunder and lightning that raised the temperature, melting the cobblestones beneath his feet into molten stone.
Everyone present witnessed the clash of titans: the mightiest spear against the unstoppable shield. Neither gave an inch.
Lightning and thunder, like whips that fractured the sky, lashed forcefully at the swampy whirlpool that was slowly sinking.
—I'm not finished yet!!—.
Javier announced.
Turning his gaze to his back, he began to trace runes with his hand. His voice rose:
—Plant! Great Mangrove Prison!—
Without warning, dozens of twisted logs emerged from the muddy waters, moving like living snakes, entangling themselves over each other until they surrounded the Winged Dragon, Lord of Thunder.
But taming a dragon, or rather the imitation of one fueled by Ryuto Kaito's indomitable will, was no easy task. The thunderbolts burned with his conviction, scorching everything they touched. Yet for every vine destroyed, a dozen more sprouted, until the dragon was pierced from all sides, its body covered in branches that immobilized it in a terrifying sight.
Crack!!
Seconds later, Ryuto Kaito's spell broke, revealing his condition: his body was pierced by branches, just like the illusory dragon he had summoned.