4
## Chapter 4: Beasts and Beauties (continued)
As they moved into the teeth of the magical tempest, Durga's cosmic field shimmered around them, a bubble of ordered reality amidst chaos. Fang Yuan applied his newly acquired vibrational disruption skill, fine-tuning the frequencies to counter the storm's magical resonance patterns. The combination created a surprisingly effective defense against the raging elements.
"The integration of our abilities is more efficient than anticipated," Durga observed, her multiple arms maintaining complex mystical gestures to sustain the protective field. "Your skill complements my cosmic authority rather than merely adding to it."
"Synergistic application," Fang Yuan acknowledged without emotion. "This world's skills appear designed for compatibility and enhancement effects."
As they progressed through the storm, geometric shapes began forming in the magical turbulence around them—first simple cubes and spheres, then increasingly complex polyhedrons that moved with disturbing purpose.
"Storm elementals," Morgan identified, her fairy magic weaving defensive patterns at the edge of Durga's field. "Spontaneous manifestations of concentrated magicules given temporary consciousness by the storm's chaotic energies."
"Prey," Arcueid stated simply, her crimson eyes tracking the manifesting entities with predatory focus.
The elementals converged on their protective bubble, attracted by the ordered energy patterns within the chaotic environment. Their attacks varied according to their geometric forms—cube entities attempted to crush, spherical ones generated pressure waves, pyramidal forms projected energy beams.
Morgan's fairy illusions confused several attackers, causing them to target false images instead of the actual barrier. Meanwhile, Arcueid slipped repeatedly through Durga's field to engage enemies directly, her vampiric abilities enhanced by her recently acquired skills from local magical creatures.
"Their composition is fascinating," she reported after dispatching a particularly large tetrahedral entity. "No physical core—just concentrated magical energy maintaining cohesion through mathematical principles."
Fang Yuan observed these manifestations with analytical interest. "Can their essence be absorbed?"
"Not conventionally," Arcueid replied, phasing back inside the protective field. "They lack stable skill patterns. However..." She extended her hand, demonstrating how she had captured swirling motes of raw magical energy. "Their magicule concentration can be harvested as pure power."
This observation aligned with information from the beastmen's archives. Storm elementals represented pure magical energy rather than evolved entities with distinct skills. They offered quantity rather than quality of power—useful for replenishing reserves but not for acquiring new abilities.
As they pressed forward through the tempest, the storm's intensity peaked. Lightning of impossible colors—violet, emerald, and crimson—forked across the sky in mathematical patterns too precise to be natural. The wind howled in harmonics that sounded disturbingly like language just beyond comprehension.
"The storm appears semi-sentient," Morgan noted, her expression showing rare concern. "These energy patterns suggest organized thought rather than random magical discharge."
Before they could discuss this troubling development further, a massive shape coalesced directly in their path—a swirling vortex of crystalline fragments and electrical energy that formed into a towering humanoid figure easily twenty meters tall.
"Storm Lord," Durga identified, her cosmic eyes narrowing. "A rare phenomenon where a magicule storm develops a central consciousness. Essentially the storm itself taking physical form."
The massive entity regarded them with "eyes" formed from swirling magical vortices. When it spoke, its voice resonated directly in their minds rather than traveling through the air.
"INTRUDERS. POWER-TAKERS. EQUILIBRIUM-BREAKERS."
For the first time since arriving in this world, Fang Yuan encountered an entity that recognized the fundamental nature of his activities. The Storm Lord had perceived their absorption of magical creatures within its domain and identified them as a threat to the natural balance.
"RETURN WHAT IS TAKEN OR BE UNMADE."
Morgan's lips curved in a cold smile. "It seems the local magical ecosystem has immune responses against predatory behavior. Fascinating."
"ALL MUST CYCLE. ALL MUST FLOW. NONE MAY HOARD POWER."
Fang Yuan assessed the entity with perfect calculation. Its power significantly exceeded that of the crystal sentinels they had encountered in the caverns, potentially approaching mid-tier Demon Lord level. Direct confrontation would be suboptimal given their current objectives and time constraints.
"Can we bypass it?" he inquired of Durga, who had the most comprehensive understanding of the entity's nature.
"Unlikely," the cosmic goddess replied. "It is a manifestation of the storm itself. Where the storm exists, so does it, at least until the magical energy dissipates naturally."
The Storm Lord apparently tired of waiting for their response. It raised massive arms formed of crystallized lightning and brought them down upon Durga's protective field. The impact sent reverberations through their shelter, though the barrier held under the combined strength of Durga's cosmic authority and Fang Yuan's vibrational stabilization.
"RETURN. RELEASE. RELINQUISH."
Arcueid bared her fangs in a predatory smile. "It wants us to give back the abilities we've consumed. Territorial response to apex predators."
Fang Yuan considered the entity not as an obstacle but as an opportunity. A being of such power, composed entirely of concentrated magical energy, could provide significant resources if properly utilized.
"We will neutralize it," he decided. "Morgan, analyze its cohesion patterns. Durga, prepare to convert our defensive field to a containment configuration. Arcueid, identify potential weakness points in its energy structure."
As his servants prepared for this coordinated approach, Fang Yuan focused inward, adapting his newest skills for offensive application. The crystalline regeneration ability, inverted and projected outward, could potentially disrupt the Storm Lord's structural integrity.
The entity attacked again, this time generating a spiraling vortex of electrified wind that encircled their protective bubble, gradually compressing it inward.
"LAST CHANCE. RELEASE WHAT IS TAKEN."
"Its cohesion relies on synchronized magical frequencies," Morgan reported, her fairy perception mapping the entity's internal structure. "Disrupting those frequencies should destabilize its form."
"Core consciousness located in the chest vortex," Arcueid added, her crimson eyes perceiving energy flows invisible to normal sight. "Secondary processing nodes in the head and central spine equivalent."
Durga's multiple arms moved in complex patterns, her cosmic power restructuring their defensive bubble. "Containment field configured. I can hold it briefly if we can force condensation of its diffuse form."
Armed with this analysis, Fang Yuan activated his vibrational disruption skill, carefully calibrating the frequency to match the Storm Lord's cohesion patterns but in precise counter-phase. The effect was immediate and dramatic—portions of the entity's massive form began to destabilize, magical energy dissipating into the surrounding storm.
"WHAT... WHAT IS THIS? HOW DO YOU KNOW THE UNMAKING FREQUENCY?"
The Storm Lord's mental voice conveyed genuine shock—clearly unused to encountering beings capable of undermining its fundamental structure. It attempted to reconfigure its magical resonance, but Fang Yuan adjusted his disruption pattern with perfect precision, maintaining the destructive interference effect.
As the entity struggled to maintain cohesion, Morgan launched her attack. Fairy magic sliced through the weakened energy matrix, separating the Storm Lord's consciousness core from its supporting structures.
"NOW!" Fang Yuan commanded.
Durga's containment field shot outward, encapsulating the destabilized core while allowing the rest of the entity's form to dissipate back into the storm. Within their protective bubble, they now held a swirling sphere of concentrated magical consciousness—the essence of the Storm Lord separated from its power source.
"NO! IMPOSSIBLE! I AM THE STORM ITSELF!"
"You were," Arcueid corrected with predatory satisfaction. "Now you're just a very interesting meal."
The captured consciousness struggled against its containment, but without its connection to the surrounding storm, its power diminished rapidly. Within moments, it had contracted to a pulsing orb of concentrated magicules roughly the size of a human head.
"An entity of this sophistication likely possesses multiple advanced skills," Morgan observed, studying the captured essence. "Though its nature differs significantly from the crystal sentinels."
Fang Yuan approached the contained consciousness, his cold eyes revealing neither triumph nor excitement—merely clinical assessment of a resource to be utilized.
"I will absorb its primary skill matrix," he stated. "The remaining essence can be distributed for your analysis and consumption."
The Storm Lord, recognizing its fate, made one final desperate communication.
"YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU DO, OUTSIDER. YOUR HUNGER WILL DRAW THEIR ATTENTION. THE BALANCE-KEEPERS WILL COME."
This warning—or threat—caused a moment of pause among Fang Yuan's servants. Durga in particular seemed to recognize significance in the entity's words.
"Balance-keepers," she repeated thoughtfully. "It refers to regulatory entities within this world's magical ecosystem. Fascinating that such natural checks and balances would evolve."
"Irrelevant," Fang Yuan dismissed the warning. "All systems of power develop counters. These 'balance-keepers' are merely another variable to be accounted for in due time."
Without further delay, he extended his spiritual essence into the contained consciousness, connecting directly with what remained of the Storm Lord. Unlike the crystal sentinels, whose abilities were discrete and clearly defined, this entity's skills were interwoven in complex patterns that defied simple extraction.
"Its structure is fundamentally different," Morgan noted, observing the interaction with her fairy senses. "More conceptual than physical. You may need to adapt your approach."
Fang Yuan adjusted his technique, shifting from direct extraction to a more holistic integration method. Rather than attempting to isolate specific skills, he established resonance with the entity's entire conceptual framework—a technique he had developed for assimilating particularly complex dao fragments in his original world.
The Storm Lord's essence resisted briefly before surrendering to Fang Yuan's superior will. As the integration process completed, the contained consciousness collapsed into swirling motes of pure magical energy—its organized patterns dissolved as its conceptual structure was absorbed into Fang Yuan's immortal aperture.
For several moments, Fang Yuan remained perfectly still, his consciousness turned inward to process this significantly more complex acquisition. When he finally opened his eyes, they contained swirling patterns reminiscent of the Storm Lord's vortex-like gaze.
"Integration successful," he announced. "I have acquired conceptual authority over localized weather phenomena and magicule storm manipulation."
This represented a significant power increase—his first acquisition of what this world would classify as an advanced-tier skill rather than basic abilities. The Storm Lord's warning about "balance-keepers" suggested that such rapid power accumulation might draw unwanted attention, but Fang Yuan considered this an acceptable risk given the advantages gained.
"The storm dissipates," Durga observed, noting how the magical tempest around them had begun to calm following the Storm Lord's absorption. "It seems the entity truly was the storm's consciousness rather than merely a manifestation."
With their path now clearing, they resumed their journey toward the beastman outpost. Fang Yuan experimented with his newly acquired weather manipulation abilities as they traveled, creating localized phenomena—small rain clouds, swirling winds, and miniature lightning—to test the skill's parameters.
"Your adaptation to this world's magical system is proceeding faster than anticipated," Morgan noted as she observed these experiments. "The integration of conceptual authorities with your immortal aperture techniques shows remarkable compatibility."
"This world's skill system is more structured than the chaotic dao fragments of my original realm," Fang Yuan replied. "The pathways of development are clearer, making efficient integration possible."
When they finally arrived at the outpost's perimeter, they found unexpected activity. Warriors bustled about with ceremonial preparation, while decorative totems and magical light displays far more elaborate than the previous day's were being installed throughout the compound.
Commander Graylash hurried to greet them at the gate, his expression revealing both relief and anxiety.
"Honored guests! We feared the storm might have delayed your return," he said, bowing deeply. "The royal escort arrived early—almost immediately after your departure. They await you in the central hall."
This news represented a minor complication to their plans. Fang Yuan had intended to process and analyze his new abilities more thoroughly before engaging with higher-level political entities from this world.
"How many comprise the escort?" he inquired, already calculating appropriate presentation strategies.
"A full ceremonial delegation," Commander Graylash replied, leading them through the increasingly crowded outpost. "Led by none other than Rigur, the Beast King's Honor Guard Captain and nephew to His Majesty himself."
The political significance was clear—sending a royal relative indicated the seriousness with which the Beast King regarded these "divine visitors." It would require careful management of appearances and narratives to maximize advantages from this situation.
As they approached the central hall within the massive ironwood tree, Fang Yuan could sense the remaining servants he had left behind. Ishtar's divine aura was particularly prominent, suggesting she had established herself as the central focus of attention—precisely as intended when he assigned her to remain at the outpost.
Upon entering the hall, they found an elaborate reception underway. Beastman warriors in ceremonial armor formed honor guards along the walls, while musicians played solemn ritual music on instruments crafted from natural materials. At the center, seated on a raised platform, was a powerfully built wolf-featured beastman whose silver armor bore royal insignia and whose bearing spoke of both military discipline and aristocratic breeding.
Before this impressive figure, Fang Yuan's remaining servants had arranged themselves with theatrical precision. Ishtar floated slightly above a decorative throne that had been hastily constructed for her, her divine aura enhanced to create a subtle golden nimbus effect. Nero stood to her right in imperial splendor, while Artoria maintained dignified knightly presence to her left. Raikou, Nobunaga, and Musashi completed the tableau, each projecting their distinct martial presences.
Only Gilgamesh had refused to participate in this arrangement, instead reclining on her own summoned golden throne positioned slightly apart from the others—maintaining her characteristic royal aloofness.
The wolf-featured beastman—presumably Rigur—rose immediately upon noticing Fang Yuan's arrival. His amber eyes widened slightly at the sight of Durga's multi-armed cosmic form, but he recovered his composure quickly.
"The honored guests return from their communion with natural forces," Commander Graylash announced formally. "May I present Captain Rigur of the Royal Honor Guard, emissary of Beast King Carrion."
The captain bowed with perfect military precision. "I bring the Beast King's most reverent greetings and formal invitation to grace our capital with your divine presence," he declared, his voice carrying the practiced eloquence of a diplomatic envoy. "News of the Moon Sovereign's intervention against imperial forces has reached His Majesty's ears, and he wishes to express personal gratitude and offer the kingdom's hospitality."
Before Fang Yuan could respond, Ishtar seized the diplomatic initiative—clearly having spent the hours of his absence solidifying her position as the group's divine representative.
"The King shows proper reverence for celestial matters," she declared with practiced divine condescension. "We accept his invitation and look forward to bringing our light to your capital."
Captain Rigur bowed again, this time directing his reverence specifically toward Ishtar. "The Beast Kingdom rejoices at your acceptance, Divine One. We have prepared suitable transportation and accommodations for your journey."
Fang Yuan allowed this exchange to proceed without intervention. Having Ishtar serve as the public face of their group provided useful misdirection, allowing him to observe and analyze without drawing primary attention. The fact that she had successfully established this dynamic during his absence demonstrated her political acumen, despite her often theatrical vanity.
As formal pleasantries continued, Morgan drifted to Fang Yuan's side, her voice pitched for his ears alone.
"Interesting developments during our absence," she murmured. "This Captain Rigur possesses significant magical potential—likely an advanced practitioner of their beast transformation arts. His reverence toward Ishtar appears genuine, suggesting our fertility goddess has successfully convinced them of her divine status."
"The deception serves our purposes for now," Fang Yuan replied quietly. "Maintain it until we have established more direct access to power sources."
The formalities concluded with arrangements for departure the following morning. The royal escort had brought elaborate transportation—a combination of magically enhanced carriages and ceremonial beast mounts that would convey them to the capital in suitable style for "divine visitors."
As the gathering dispersed into informal groups, Captain Rigur approached Fang Yuan directly, displaying the keen political instinct to recognize the true authority despite the theatrical positioning of Ishtar as their figurehead.
"You are the one called Fang Yuan," he stated rather than asked, his amber eyes assessing. "Commander Graylash described you as the leader of these... diverse visitors."
"I coordinate our activities," Fang Yuan acknowledged neutrally, neither confirming nor denying any specific leadership role.
The captain nodded thoughtfully. "I observe much but say little—that is my duty as the King's eyes and ears. I note that while the golden one receives the bows and offerings, it is to you the others look for subtle guidance."
This level of perception suggested Captain Rigur was more politically astute than his military bearing might indicate. Fang Yuan revised his assessment of the beastman upward—this was no mere honor guard but a sophisticated political operator with close ties to the Beast King.
"Different roles serve different purposes," Fang Yuan replied with deliberate ambiguity. "The divine receives worship; the practical handles logistics."
A hint of respect flickered in the captain's eyes at this deflection. "Indeed. The Beast Kingdom understands the value of appropriate roles within a hierarchy." He lowered his voice slightly. "His Majesty will be most interested in discussing matters of substance beyond ceremonial greetings. Particularly regarding the balance of power in our world following your... arrival."
This subtle probe confirmed Fang Yuan's assessment that the Beast King's interest extended beyond religious reverence for "divine visitors." The ruler clearly recognized potential political and military implications of their presence and sought to understand how these new variables might affect existing power structures.
"We look forward to such discussions," Fang Yuan responded, revealing nothing while acknowledging the underlying reality.
As evening approached, his servants gathered in a private chamber to share information and prepare for the journey ahead. Ishtar was particularly pleased with her diplomatic performance.
"The wolf captain practically prostrated himself before me," she declared, floating triumphantly above the others. "Even their royal emissary recognizes proper divine hierarchy."
"He's no mere captain," Artoria cautioned, her political experience as a king giving her insight into court dynamics. "He observes everything with calculation beyond military assessment. Each question he asked was designed to map our relationships and power structure."
"The nephew of the Beast King would not be sent as a simple escort," Morgan agreed. "He's here to evaluate us as potential allies or threats."
Nobunaga cackled with delight. "Court intrigue already! This world grows more entertaining by the day!"
Fang Yuan redirected the discussion to practical matters. "Report significant information acquired during our absence."
Musashi spoke first, her swordswoman's discipline evident in her precise briefing. "The royal escort includes twenty elite warriors, each demonstrating unique beast transformation abilities. Their fighting style incorporates partial transformations for tactical advantage—claws for close combat, enhanced senses for detection, physiological adaptations for environmental challenges."
"They brought extensive supplies and multiple transport options," Artoria added. "Preparations for various contingencies, including defensive measures against both imperial forces and magical beasts. Their operational security suggests military experience beyond ceremonial duties."
"Most interesting is their magical communication system," Gilgamesh contributed unexpectedly, breaking her usual disdainful silence. "Crystal devices that allow instantaneous contact with the capital. The King of Heroes recognizes technology with potential value when he sees it."
This information about communication capabilities was particularly relevant. It suggested the Beast King was already receiving regular updates about their activities, potentially including details about their excursion to the Crystal Caverns.
"The journey to the capital will take three days according to Captain Rigur," Raikou reported, her maternal instincts having led her to focus on practical travel considerations. "The route passes through territories with increasing magical beast activity. They've arranged for additional security details to join us at checkpoint outposts."
"The captain was particularly interested in our origins," Nero added, her theatrical perspective giving her surprising insight into performance aspects of diplomatic interaction. "His questions seemed casual, but consistently returned to how we came to this world and what connections we might have to entities called 'Otherworlders.'"
This last piece of information caught Fang Yuan's attention. The term suggested this world had previous experience with beings from other dimensions—knowledge that could be valuable for understanding how Tensura's systems processed extradimensional entities like themselves.
"We will maintain our established narrative during the journey," he instructed after processing all reports. "Ishtar continues as the public divine representative. Provide no specific details about our original worlds beyond generalities already established. Our primary objective shifts to information gathering about the capital's resources and power structures."
With strategic direction established, the discussion turned to Fang Yuan's successful skill acquisitions in the Crystal Caverns and subsequent encounter with the Storm Lord. His servants showed varying degrees of interest in these developments.
"Conceptual weather authority is a significant acquisition," Durga acknowledged, her cosmic perspective allowing her to recognize the true value of such ability. "In this magicule-rich environment, it provides both offensive capabilities and environmental control options."
"The Storm Lord's warning about 'balance-keepers' warrants consideration," Morgan cautioned. "Natural systems typically develop regulatory mechanisms against excessive predation. We should identify these entities before they identify us."
"HAHAHAHA! Let them come!" Nobunaga declared with characteristic bloodlust. "New challengers only make conquest more interesting!"
"Strategic caution would be advisable until we better understand this world's power hierarchy," Artoria countered, ever the responsible tactician. "Particularly as we approach the political center of one of its major nations."
Gilgamesh, who had been examining a golden goblet from her treasury with apparent boredom, looked up with sudden intensity. "The wolf speaks of 'balance of power' while the storm entity warns of 'balance-keepers.' This world seems obsessed with equilibrium—a sign of stagnation and complacency that inevitably invites disruption."
This observation, despite its typically Gilgamesh-ian arrogance, contained genuine insight. Tensura's power systems appeared to incorporate multiple checks and balances—from the Walpurgis Council's regulation of Demon Lords to these mysterious "balance-keepers" that monitored magical ecology.
"All systems of constraint can be analyzed, understood, and eventually overcome," Fang Yuan stated with cold certainty. "Regulatory mechanisms are merely obstacles to be systematically dismantled."
As preparations for the journey continued, Fang Yuan dedicated several hours to meditation, focusing on fully integrating his newly acquired abilities and planning his next power acquisition targets. The information gathered about the Beast Kingdom's capital suggested it would offer both opportunities and limitations—greater knowledge resources but also increased scrutiny from powerful entities.
The Storm Lord's warning lingered at the edges of his calculated planning. These "balance-keepers" represented an unknown variable that required identification and assessment. Yet even this potential complication was merely another factor to be incorporated into his relentless pursuit of power.
For Fang Yuan had not come to this world to maintain its equilibrium—but to master it, exploit it, and eventually transcend it in his eternal quest for sovereignty beyond all limitations.
## Chapter 5: The Road to Eurazania Prime
Dawn broke over the beastman outpost with ceremonial fanfare. Drums fashioned from hollow logs and horns carved from magical creatures' remains sounded in complex rhythmic patterns that, according to Captain Rigur, represented the "Awakening of the First Beast King" - a traditional sendoff for royal processions.
The caravan assembled in the central courtyard had been arranged with meticulous attention to hierarchy and symbolism. At its center was an ornate conveyance that resembled a mobile shrine more than a carriage - a platform of polished ironwood supported by six massive beast-men in partial transformation state, their muscular bodies displaying both humanoid and ursine characteristics.
"The Divine Palanquin," Captain Rigur explained with formal reverence. "Traditionally reserved for holy relics during festival processions. We have adapted it to serve as suitable transportation for the Moon Sovereign."
Ishtar's expression upon seeing this arrangement was one of perfect divine satisfaction. "How appropriate," she declared, floating gracefully toward the elaborate conveyance. "Though in my homeland, my processional barque was carried by forty attendants and plated with celestial gold."
"We beg forgiveness for our humble offering," the captain responded with practiced diplomacy. "The frontier provides limited resources compared to the capital."
"Your devotion compensates for material limitations," Ishtar magnanimously assured him, settling onto the cushioned throne at the palanquin's center.
For the rest of Fang Yuan's servants, various carriages and mounts had been prepared according to their apparent status and preferences. Gilgamesh, predictably, rejected the offered transportation.
"The King of Heroes rides in nothing less than his own divine conveyance," she declared imperiously, summoning her golden chariot from the Gates of Babylon. The magnificent vehicle hovered slightly above the ground, causing the beastmen to murmur in awe.
Captain Rigur recovered quickly from his surprise. "Most impressive, Divine One. Such a magnificent conveyance will certainly add to the procession's grandeur."
Fang Yuan himself selected a simple yet elegant carriage near the center of the formation, positioning himself to observe the entire procession while maintaining proximity to key information sources. Morgan, Durga, and Arcueid joined him in this vehicle, their interest in continued technical discussion of his skill acquisitions aligning with his own analytical priorities.
As final preparations were completed, Commander Graylash organized a formal farewell ceremony. The entire outpost's personnel assembled in formation, offering ritualized salutes as Captain Rigur delivered a ceremonial blessing for the journey.
"May the First Beast's shadow guard your path, may the Primal Forest's wisdom guide your steps, and may the Star Covenant light your way to the heart of Eurazania."
With these formal words completed, the procession began its journey. Elite beast-warrior scouts moved ahead of the main group, while ceremonial guard units flanked the divine palanquin. Behind Ishtar's central position came the various carriages containing Fang Yuan and his other servants, followed by supply wagons and additional security forces.
Inside his carriage, Fang Yuan immediately directed the conversation toward practical analysis of his recent power acquisitions.
"The weather manipulation ability acquired from the Storm Lord has interesting limitations," he observed, demonstrating by creating a miniature whirlwind above his palm. "Its effectiveness scales with ambient magicule density rather than my internal energy reserves."
"That's consistent with how this world's skills seem to function," Morgan noted, her fairy senses perceiving the magical mechanics involved. "They act as interfaces between personal power and environmental energy rather than being purely self-contained abilities."
"A fundamental difference from cultivation techniques in your original world?" Durga inquired, her cosmic perspective allowing her to conceptualize different power systems.
"Indeed," Fang Yuan confirmed. "My immortal aperture techniques primarily utilize internal spiritual energy with limited environmental interaction. This world's skills operate on a more symbiotic principle."
Arcueid leaned forward with predatory interest. "Which means adapting your hunting strategies. In magicule-dense environments, your acquired skills will function at peak effectiveness, while depleted areas would require greater reliance on your original abilities."
This insight prompted Fang Yuan to scan their surroundings through the carriage window. As they traveled further from the outpost, the landscape gradually transformed from wasteland to increasingly verdant forest territory. With his enhanced perception, he could detect the rising magicule concentration in the environment - a good sign for his newly acquired abilities.
Their technical discussion continued for several hours, interrupted only when Captain Rigur approached their carriage during a brief rest stop. The wolf-featured beastman moved with military precision as he delivered an update on their progress.
"We maintain good pace and should reach the first checkpoint by nightfall," he reported. "I wished to inform you personally that we'll be entering territories with higher magical beast activity soon. Nothing the escort cannot handle, but there may be some... disruptions to our smooth progress."
"What class of magical beasts inhabit these regions?" Fang Yuan inquired, his interest immediately focusing on potential skill acquisition opportunities.
"Primarily B and A-rank forest adaptations," the captain replied. "Thornwolves, dreadroot serpents, occasionally a razor hawk flock. The truly dangerous specimens - S-rank and above - tend to claim territories deeper in the ancient woods."
This classification system provided useful context for understanding the local power hierarchy among magical creatures. Fang Yuan filed this information away, already considering how to engineer an "accidental" encounter that might facilitate acquisition of forest-adapted abilities.
As the journey resumed, the procession entered increasingly dense woodland. Ancient trees with trunks wider than houses created a cathedral-like canopy overhead, filtering the sunlight into dappled patterns. The beastman guards appeared more at ease in this environment, some displaying subtle physical changes as they connected with their ancestral territories.
Around mid-afternoon, the sound of galloping hooves announced Nobunaga's approach. The Demon King of the Sixth Heaven had abandoned her assigned carriage in favor of a massive horned mount provided by the beast-warriors - a creature resembling a fusion of elk and tiger that the beastmen called a "stridefang."
She pulled alongside Fang Yuan's carriage, her maniacal grin visible through the window. "You're missing all the interesting developments by hiding in this box!" she declared. "The escort warriors have been sharing tales of local conquest histories. The Beast Kingdom has fascinating tribal warfare traditions!"
"What specifically have you learned about their military capabilities?" Fang Yuan inquired, immediately focusing on practical intelligence.
"Their transformation abilities have tactical applications beyond raw combat power," Nobunaga explained, her military mind having cut straight to strategic implications. "Some can communicate with natural forest creatures for reconnaissance. Others can temporarily adopt subterranean forms for ambush tactics. Their entire military doctrine integrates natural camouflage and environmental manipulation."
This information further refined Fang Yuan's understanding of the Beast Kingdom's power structure. Their warrior traditions clearly emphasized harmony with natural forces rather than domination through purely artificial means - a philosophy that had advantages and limitations worthy of analysis.
"Continue gathering military intelligence," he instructed. "Particularly regarding their defensive capabilities at the capital and counter-measures against magical threats."
Nobunaga offered a mock salute before spurring her mount forward, clearly enjoying the physical freedom of riding rather than being confined to a carriage.
As afternoon deepened toward evening, the quality of light in the forest underwent a subtle transformation. Bioluminescent fungi began glowing along the path, while magical insects emitted soft pulses of colored light among the branches above.
"Enchanting," Morgan observed, her fairy nature responding to this magical ecosystem. "These forests have developed magical symbiosis far more sophisticated than most natural environments I've encountered."
"The magicule density continues to increase," Arcueid added, her vampiric senses attuned to the energy flows. "We're likely approaching a natural confluence point where ley lines intersect."
This observation proved accurate when, shortly thereafter, they arrived at their first scheduled stop - a waystation built around a massive tree that pulsed with visible magical energy. Unlike the military outpost they had departed from, this location appeared designed primarily for mystical purposes rather than defense.
"Covenant Anchor Waystation," Captain Rigur announced as the procession halted. "One of seven sacred sites that mark the original pact between the First Beast King and the Forest Spirits. We will rest here tonight under their protection."
As they disembarked from their various conveyances, the magical nature of the location became even more apparent. The central tree - easily three hundred feet tall with a trunk fifty feet in diameter - was engraved with countless runes and symbols that glowed with gentle amber light. Around its base, smaller structures had been built into the living wood rather than carved from it, creating harmony between architecture and nature.
Ishtar maintained her divine persona as she descended from her palanquin, her feet never quite touching the ground as she floated with deliberate grace. "This place resonates with old power," she observed, her genuine divine nature allowing her to perceive aspects of the site's significance. "Sacred covenants leave distinctive spiritual imprints."
The beast-warriors responded to her recognition with deepened reverence, clearly interpreting her perception as further evidence of her divine status. Several immediately began preparing a special pavilion where the "Moon Sovereign" could rest in appropriate luxury.
Fang Yuan, meanwhile, focused on examining the magical properties of the Covenant Anchor. The massive tree represented a potentially valuable source of information about this world's fundamental systems of power - particularly the pact-based magic that apparently formed the foundation of the Beast Kingdom's authority.
As he approached the tree to conduct a closer inspection, an elderly tigress-featured beastwoman emerged from one of the structures built into its base. Her fur was silver with age, and she walked with the assistance of a staff carved from the same wood as the great tree.
"I am Matriarch Silvermane, Keeper of this Anchor," she introduced herself with formal dignity. "You examine our sacred tree with great interest, honored visitor from beyond."
"Its magical properties are worthy of study," Fang Yuan replied neutrally. "The covenant symbolism suggests a contract-based power allocation system."
The matriarch's whiskers twitched with surprise at his technical assessment. "Your perception is unusually precise for an outsider. Indeed, the Seven Anchors maintain the original terms of exchange between our ancestors and the primal spirits of these lands."
This confirmation provided valuable context for understanding the Beast Kingdom's magical foundation. Contract-based power systems typically contained specific limitations and conditions that could be analyzed and potentially exploited.
"What is the nature of this exchange?" Fang Yuan inquired, his tone suggesting academic interest rather than strategic calculation.
Matriarch Silvermane studied him for a long moment before responding, her ancient eyes showing the wisdom of decades spent communing with magical forces.
"The essence is balance, visitor. Our ancestors received the blessing of beast-forms and harmony with the forest. In exchange, they pledged to maintain the magical ecology and defend these lands against destructive forces." Her gaze sharpened slightly. "All power has its price and purpose. Even divine gifts come with... responsibilities."
This last statement carried a subtle warning that suggested the matriarch perceived more about Fang Yuan and his servants than she explicitly acknowledged. Unlike the warriors who had embraced Ishtar's divine narrative without question, this spiritual leader appeared to sense complexities beneath the surface.
Before their conversation could continue, they were interrupted by Raikou, who approached with the fluid grace that belied her maternal persona.
"My child should not exhaust himself with scholarly pursuits before dinner," she declared, somehow managing to make her obsessive statement sound perfectly reasonable. "The journey has been long, and proper nutrition is essential for growing boys."
Fang Yuan ignored this familiar delusion as he always did, but Matriarch Silvermane's reaction was unexpected - a soft chuckle that suggested genuine amusement rather than confusion.
"The mother-spirit is strong in this one," she observed, nodding respectfully to Raikou. "Though misaligned with its intended vessel."
This perceptive comment suggested the matriarch possessed significant spiritual insight, perhaps even the ability to perceive aspects of their true natures despite the dimensional differences involved.
"My maternal devotion is perfectly aligned," Raikou countered with serene certainty. "A mother's love transcends all boundaries, including those between worlds."
"Indeed," the matriarch acknowledged diplomatically. "And now, as the honored guest suggests, perhaps it is time for refreshment. The Anchor's blessing includes bountiful provision for travelers. A feast has been prepared to welcome our distinguished visitors."
As they moved toward the central clearing where elaborate dining arrangements had been established, Fang Yuan noticed that his servants had dispersed throughout the waystation, each following their natural inclinations.
Nero had discovered a group of young beastmen practicing what appeared to be a ritualized performance and had immediately inserted herself as director, gesturing dramatically as she rearranged their positions for "improved theatrical impact." The performers, initially confused, now appeared captivated by her charismatic confidence.
Artoria and Musashi had engaged several of the escort's senior warriors in what seemed to be a detailed comparison of combat philosophies, their discussion accompanied by occasional demonstrations of form that had attracted an appreciative audience.
Gilgamesh, unsurprisingly, had positioned herself atop a raised natural platform, reclining on her summoned golden throne while sampling wines from her treasury. More surprising was the small gathering of beastmen who appeared to be offering local vintages for her imperial assessment.
"Your golden one has established herself as an authority on fermentation arts," Captain Rigur explained, noticing Fang Yuan's observation. "Apparently, she possesses an extensive collection of wines from various realms. Our local brewers are eager for her evaluation of their humble efforts."
Gilgamesh's expression as she tasted a dark amber liquid from a wooden cup was one of surprised approval. "This forest honey mead possesses complexity worthy of the King's notice," she declared with imperial magnanimity. "The subtle infusion of magical essences creates harmonics not present in ordinary fermentation. Your brewers demonstrate unexpected sophistication."
The beastman vintners practically glowed with pride at this praise from a being they perceived as divine, immediately offering additional selections from their best reserves.
As the evening feast began, Fang Yuan positioned himself to observe while extracting further information about the Beast Kingdom's power structures. He deliberately seated himself near Captain Rigur and other senior members of the escort rather than at the ceremonial high table where Ishtar presided as the honored divine guest.
"Your interest in our kingdom's foundations seems scholarly rather than merely diplomatic," Captain Rigur observed as servants brought platters of forest delicacies. "Few visitors concern themselves with covenant magic and ancestral pacts."
"Understanding fundamental systems provides context for meaningful interaction," Fang Yuan replied, his neutral tone revealing nothing of his true motivations.
The captain nodded thoughtfully while selecting a portion of roasted meat from a serving platter. "A wise approach. Though I wonder - do the divine realms operate on similar principles of covenant and exchange? Or are their power systems fundamentally different?"
This probing question confirmed Fang Yuan's assessment that the captain served as the Beast King's intelligence gatherer, tasked with learning as much as possible about these "divine visitors" while escorting them to the capital.
"Power systems vary across realms," Fang Yuan answered with deliberate ambiguity. "Some operate on covenant principles, others on hierarchical authority, many on combinations of various approaches."
"And your own preference?" the captain pressed, his amber eyes watching carefully for reaction.
"Efficiency is the only meaningful metric," Fang Yuan stated, allowing a rare glimpse of his true philosophical position. "Systems that maximize power acquisition and utilization while minimizing restrictive conditions are inherently superior, regardless of their specific mechanics."
This response seemed to intrigue the captain rather than alarm him. "An interesting perspective. One might argue that restrictions and conditions are necessary components of stable power systems rather than inefficiencies to be eliminated."
"Stability through restriction is merely stagnation given a more appealing name," Fang Yuan countered, the discussion having shifted toward philosophical territory that revealed more of his fundamental worldview than he typically exposed.
Captain Rigur's whiskers twitched with what might have been suppressed amusement. "I begin to understand why you travel somewhat apart from your more... theatrical companions. Your perspectives would likely spark considerable debate in our capital's philosophical circles."
This exchange was interrupted by a commotion near the edge of the clearing. A beast-warrior scout burst into the gathering, his fur bristling with alarm as he rushed directly to Captain Rigur.
"Captain! Thornwolf pack approaching from the northwest - unusually large numbers and coordinated movement patterns. They've already bypassed our outer perimeter wards."
The captain rose immediately, his relaxed diplomatic demeanor instantly replaced by military alertness. "How many? Formation type?"
"At least thirty individuals, including what appears to be an alpha-mutation. They've adopted pincer approach formation rather than standard pack hunting pattern."
This report caused visible concern among the beast-warriors present. Captain Rigur turned to address the assembled guests.
"I must ask our honored visitors to remain within the central clearing under guard. Thornwolves rarely approach Covenant Anchors, but this behavior suggests unusual aggression or outside influence."
As the captain began issuing rapid orders to his warriors, organizing defensive positions around the waystation, Fang Yuan recognized an opportunity hidden within this disruption. These "thornwolves" likely possessed skills and abilities that could prove valuable additions to his growing arsenal.
"What exactly are these creatures?" he asked Matriarch Silvermane, who had remained calm despite the alarming news.
"Magical beasts that combine canine pack hunting tactics with plant-based defensive and offensive adaptations," she explained. "Their bodies are covered with retractable thorns capable of delivering paralytic toxins, and they can temporarily root themselves to draw additional magical energy from the forest floor."
This description confirmed Fang Yuan's assessment - these creatures represented a potential source of valuable abilities, particularly the plant-integration aspects that would complement his existing crystalline and weather manipulation skills.
"An alpha-mutation suggests a leader with evolved abilities beyond standard specimens," the matriarch continued, her expression growing more concerned. "Coordinated approaches against Covenant Anchors are virtually unprecedented. Something has disturbed the natural order."
As beast-warriors moved into defensive positions, Fang Yuan subtly signaled several of his servants to prepare for potential engagement. Arcueid's crimson eyes gleamed with predatory anticipation, while Morgan's expression showed calculated interest in this development.
Captain Rigur returned to the central clearing after organizing the defenses, his manner now fully that of a military commander rather than a diplomatic escort.
"The situation is concerning but manageable," he reported to the assembled visitors. "Our warriors have established a defensive perimeter. However, I must ask for your understanding regarding a precautionary measure."
He turned specifically toward Ishtar, who had been watching the developments with divine composure from her ceremonial position.
"Divine One, the Covenant Anchor's inherent protections can be significantly strengthened through proper invocation. As our visitors include a celestial being, perhaps you might consider adding your divine blessing to our traditional guardianship ritual? The combined spiritual resonance would ensure absolute security."
This request clearly placed Ishtar in a difficult position. While she was indeed a genuine goddess from her original world, she had no natural connection to this realm's specific magical systems, particularly the covenant magic that operated through the Anchor tree.
Before the awkwardness could become too apparent, Morgan smoothly intervened.
"The harmonization of different divine resonance patterns requires careful calibration," she explained with aristocratic authority. "Perhaps a combined approach would be most effective - your matriarch performing the traditional invocation while the Moon Sovereign provides complementary celestial energy."
This elegant solution allowed for Ishtar's participation without requiring specific knowledge of local magical protocols that would have exposed the limits of her connection to this world's spiritual system.
Captain Rigur nodded with appreciation for this suggestion. "A wise approach. Matriarch Silvermane can guide the proper integration of energies."
As these arrangements were being discussed, Fang Yuan detected a subtle disturbance in the magical atmosphere surrounding the waystation. With his newly enhanced senses, he could perceive shifts in ambient magicule patterns that suggested the approaching threat was more significant than the beast-warriors realized.
"The disruption extends beyond physical incursion," he stated, drawing surprised attention from both Captain Rigur and Matriarch Silvermane. "The magicule flow patterns show systematic interference rather than natural disturbance."
The matriarch's ancient eyes widened with alarm. "You perceive the currents themselves? If what you say is true, this is not merely a beast incursion but potentially a targeted assault on the Covenant Anchor itself."
This assessment elevated the situation from a relatively routine defense against magical beasts to a potential threat against one of the Beast Kingdom's foundational power sources. Captain Rigur immediately began issuing new orders, redirecting his elite warriors to reinforce positions around the central tree.
From the forest edge came the first visual confirmation of the threat - sleek canine forms moving with unnatural coordination through the underbrush. As they emerged into clearer view, their nature became apparent. Each creature was approximately the size of a large wolf, but with disturbing modifications - bark-like armor covered vital areas of their bodies, while wickedly sharp thorns protruded from their limbs, backs, and tails.
Most alarming was their movement pattern. Rather than the chaotic aggression typical of predatory packs, these creatures maintained perfect formation discipline, advancing in synchronized waves that suggested intelligence beyond animal instinct.
"Something controls them," Captain Rigur observed grimly. "These aren't natural thornwolves hunting for prey. They're being directed with military precision."
As the beast-warriors engaged the first wave of attackers, the difference in combat style became even more apparent. The thornwolves employed coordinated tactics - some using their rooting ability to create anchor points while others executed flanking maneuvers with disturbing efficiency.
"The alpha," Matriarch Silvermane murmured, pointing toward a massive figure that had appeared at the forest edge. "But it's been... changed."
The creature she indicated barely resembled its pack members. Towering nearly twelve feet tall on its hind legs, it had evolved far beyond normal thornwolf parameters. Its body was a grotesque fusion of animal and plant, with woody branches extending from its spine to form a cage-like exoskeleton. Multiple eyes gleamed with unnatural intelligence, and its movements displayed purposeful calculation rather than bestial instinct.
Most disturbing was the faint glow visible at the center of its chest - a pulsing core of concentrated magical energy that radiated discordant patterns into the surrounding magicule field.
"That is no natural evolution," the matriarch stated with certainty. "Something has forcibly altered its development path and magical essence."
For Fang Yuan, this aberrant alpha represented not just a threat but an opportunity - a chance to acquire uniquely modified abilities that might provide insight into this world's skill manipulation mechanisms. The unnatural modifications suggested deliberate experimentation with magical evolution patterns - knowledge that aligned perfectly with his own power acquisition goals.
"We will assist in neutralizing the alpha," he announced, moving forward with casual confidence that caused Captain Rigur to look at him with surprise. "Continue focusing your warriors on containing the standard pack members."
Before the captain could protest this unexpected intervention, Fang Yuan signaled to his selected servants. "Morgan, Arcueid, Durga - targeted engagement with the alpha entity. Acquisition priority rather than simple elimination."
The three immediately understood his intention, moving into position with supernatural grace that drew gasps from the watching beast-warriors. Their coordinated approach demonstrated a level of tactical sophistication that matched the unnatural discipline of their opponents.
As beast-warriors clashed with the main thornwolf pack along the perimeter, Fang Yuan and his three servants advanced directly toward the mutated alpha. The creature's multiple eyes focused on their approach, its warped intelligence clearly recognizing them as the greater threat.
With surprising speed for its massive size, the alpha charged forward, woody limbs extending into spear-like projections while thorns erupted across its surface in defensive arrays.
Morgan struck first, her fairy magic creating illusory duplicates of their group that confused the creature's targeting. As it hesitated momentarily, Arcueid executed a blindingly fast flanking maneuver, her vampiric claws slashing through wooden protrusions with superhuman strength.
The alpha roared in pain and rage, releasing a cloud of paralytic spores from flowering structures along its back. Durga countered this attack with a cosmic barrier that neutralized the toxic particles, while Fang Yuan activated his newly acquired weather manipulation ability to create localized wind currents that dispersed the remaining spores.
"Its core contains concentrated magicules in an artificial configuration," Durga reported, her cosmic vision perceiving the creature's internal structure. "Someone has deliberately implanted a foreign magical matrix to override its natural development patterns."
This information confirmed Fang Yuan's suspicion that the attack was not simply random aggression but part of some larger scheme. The artificial modification of magical beasts suggested experimentation with forced evolution - research that paralleled his own interests in skill acquisition and development.
As their initial exchange of attacks concluded, the alpha shifted strategies. It plunged its limbs into the forest floor, massive roots spreading outward as it established a direct connection with the surrounding ecosystem. The effect was immediate and alarming - nearby plants contorted into unnatural shapes, transforming into extensions of the alpha's will.
"It's attempting to corrupt the local magicule flow," Morgan observed, her fairy senses attuned to natural energy patterns. "If it establishes sufficient connection density, it could potentially interfere with the Covenant Anchor itself."
This development elevated the threat beyond a simple predatory attack to a direct assault on the Beast Kingdom's foundational magic. Captain Rigur, observing from his position coordinating the main defense, shouted urgent orders to redirect forces toward containing this new threat.
Fang Yuan, however, saw an opportunity within the crisis. The alpha's connection to the forest's magicule network provided a perfect vector for his own ability acquisition approach.
"Maintain containment but do not terminate," he instructed his servants. "I will extract its core abilities directly."
Moving with the perfect precision that characterized all his actions, Fang Yuan approached the rooted alpha. The creature directed waves of corrupted plant matter toward him, but these attacks were neutralized by the coordinated efforts of his three servants, creating a protected approach corridor.
When he reached optimal range, Fang Yuan activated a modified version of the absorption technique he had developed in the Crystal Caverns. Rather than attempting to extract the creature's natural abilities, he focused specifically on the artificial magical matrix that had been implanted within its core - the source of its enhanced intelligence and unnatural control over plant matter.
The connection established instantly, creating a bridge between Fang Yuan's immortal aperture and the alpha's modified core. Through this link, he could perceive the artificial construct with perfect clarity - a sophisticated magical algorithm designed to accelerate evolution while establishing override control protocols.
Most interesting was the signature embedded within this construct - a magical identifier that revealed its creator. Though Fang Yuan could not yet match this signature to a specific entity in this world, he could determine that it represented a highly advanced magical practitioner with specialized knowledge of evolutionary manipulation.
As he began the extraction process, the alpha's multiple eyes widened with what appeared to be actual comprehension rather than merely animal fear. It struggled desperately against the spiritual tethers Fang Yuan had established, even attempting to sever its own connection to the forest floor to escape.
"It understands what you're doing," Arcueid observed with predatory fascination. "There's genuine higher intelligence within that corrupted form."
This consciousness only made the extraction more valuable, as it suggested the artificial matrix included not just evolutionary acceleration but actual intelligence enhancement components. Fang Yuan proceeded methodically, drawing the construct's pattern into his immortal aperture while carefully maintaining its structural integrity for later analysis.
The alpha's struggles grew increasingly desperate as its core abilities were systematically extracted. In a final act of self-preservation, it attempted to self-destruct - concentrating its remaining magical energy into an unstable configuration that would have created a devastating explosion.
Morgan recognized this danger immediately. "It's overloading its core matrix! The magical feedback could trigger a chain reaction throughout its root network!"
Without hesitation, Durga extended her cosmic authority, creating a containment field around the alpha's destabilizing core. "Complete your extraction quickly," she advised Fang Yuan. "I can contain the feedback temporarily, but the system is approaching critical instability."
With perfect precision born of centuries of cultivation experience, Fang Yuan accelerated the extraction process, drawing the remaining valuable components of the artificial matrix into his immortal aperture moments before the creature's magical core collapsed entirely.
The alpha's massive body shuddered once before disintegrating into constituent magical particles. What remained was not a physical corpse but a shower of crystallized magicules that rained down upon the forest floor, already beginning to reintegrate with the natural energy cycle.
In the aftermath of this confrontation, the remaining thornwolves - now bereft of the alpha's controlling influence - fell into disarray. Some fled back into the forest, while others reverted to standard pack behavior, continuing their attacks but without the unnatural coordination that had made them so threatening.
The beast-warriors quickly gained the upper hand against these remaining adversaries, driving them back from the waystation's perimeter with coordinated counterattacks that demonstrated their own superior training and natural affinity with forest combat.
Captain Rigur approached Fang Yuan and his servants, his expression a complex mixture of gratitude, suspicion, and professional assessment.
"Your intervention was... decisive," he acknowledged, studying the area where the alpha had disintegrated. "Though your methods are unlike any I've witnessed before."
"The threat required specialized countermeasures," Fang Yuan replied neutrally. "The artificial modification of the alpha creature suggested deliberate intent rather than natural aggression."
The captain's ears flattened slightly at this assessment. "You perceived the unnatural aspects immediately. Few would recognize such subtle magical manipulation without extensive training in our kingdom's mystical traditions."
"The pattern was obvious to those with experience in similar phenomena," Fang Yuan stated, neither confirming nor denying specific knowledge of this world's magical systems.
Matriarch Silvermane joined them, her ancient eyes studying the crystallized magicule remnants with troubled concentration.
"This was a targeted assault," she confirmed grimly. "Not against our physical presence but against the Covenant Anchor itself. The alpha was designed to corrupt the local magicule flow patterns and potentially destabilize the ancestral pact maintained by this site."
This conclusion aligned with Fang Yuan's own analysis of the artificial matrix he had extracted. The construct contained components specifically designed to interfere with covenant-based magical structures - suggesting its creator possessed detailed knowledge of the Beast Kingdom's foundational power systems.
"Who would possess both the capability and motivation for such an attack?" he inquired, seeking to expand his understanding of potential power players in this world.
The matriarch and captain exchanged meaningful glances before Captain Rigur responded carefully.
"There are several possibilities, none of them reassuring. The Eastern Empire has mage-researchers known to experiment with forced magical evolution. Certain rogue Demon Lords pursue similar studies for their own purposes. And there are... other entities with interests in disrupting established power balances."
This deliberately vague response suggested political complications that the captain was not authorized to discuss fully with outsiders, even those currently enjoying honored guest status.
"Most concerning is the timing," Matriarch Silvermane added, her tone grave. "Such an attack occurring precisely when divine visitors are present at the Anchor cannot be coincidental. Either your presence was anticipated, or your arrival has accelerated existing plans."
This observation raised important strategic considerations. If their presence in this world had already drawn the attention of advanced magical practitioners capable of creating such sophisticated constructs, it suggested their activities were being monitored more closely than anticipated.
Before this discussion could continue further, a commotion near the central clearing drew their attention. Ishtar had apparently completed some form of ceremonial blessing with the beastman shamans, and the Covenant Anchor was now radiating intensified magical energy - its rune-covered surface glowing with greatly enhanced brilliance that formed a visible protective dome over the entire waystation.
"The combined invocation appears successful," Captain Rigur observed with evident relief. "The Anchor's protective field has been strengthened significantly."
Fang Yuan noted with analytical interest that despite her lack of connection to this world's specific magical systems, Ishtar had apparently managed to contribute genuine divine energy to the protective enchantments. Her fundamental nature as a fertility goddess likely provided sufficient compatibility with the forest-based covenant magic to establish functional resonance.
As they returned to the central clearing, the aftermath of battle gradually transformed into a continuation of the interrupted feast, now reframed as a victory celebration. The beast-warriors proudly recounted their roles in defeating the thornwolf pack, while the visitors were praised for their unexpected but welcome assistance.
For Fang Yuan, however, the external celebrations were merely background noise to his internal processing of the newly acquired magical construct. The artificial matrix he had extracted from the alpha contained sophisticated evolutionary acceleration algorithms that could potentially be adapted to enhance his own skill acquisition methods.
More valuable still was the insight it provided into covenant-based magical systems and their vulnerabilities. The matrix had been specifically designed to corrupt connection points between different magical authorities - knowledge that could prove useful in his long-term goal of transcending this world's fundamental limitations.
As night deepened and the celebrations gradually subsided, Fang Yuan's servants gathered in a private pavilion to discuss the implications of the unusual attack.
"That was no random beast incursion," Morgan stated, her calculating mind having already analyzed multiple aspects of the encounter. "The artificial matrix contained targeted corruption vectors designed specifically for covenant-based magical structures."
"The level of sophistication suggests a creator with advanced understanding of this world's fundamental systems," Durga added, her cosmic perspective allowing her to recognize the true significance of such specialized magical engineering.
"Most interesting was the semi-independence granted to the alpha," Arcueid observed, her predatory nature giving her unique insight into controlled hunters. "It wasn't merely an automaton following programmed instructions but had been granted limited higher reasoning capabilities while remaining bound to its creator's overall directives."
Artoria, who had participated in the defense of the waystation's perimeter, joined the discussion with her own tactical assessment.
"The attack pattern showed military precision beyond magical enhancement. Whoever designed these creatures has significant strategic knowledge in addition to magical expertise." Her expression grew more serious. "It was a probing attack - testing defenses and response patterns rather than committing full resources to a decisive strike."
"HAHAHAHA! The plot thickens already!" Nobunaga cackled with delighted bloodlust. "We've barely arrived in this world and already mysterious enemies conduct tests of our capabilities! Truly a realm worthy of conquest!"
Musashi nodded thoughtfully, her swordswoman's intuition adding another dimension to the analysis. "There was purpose in the timing as well. The attack came during evening festivities, when guards would be at minimum alertness. Someone with detailed knowledge of waystation routines planned this incursion."
These varied perspectives coalesced into a comprehensive assessment that confirmed Fang Yuan's own conclusion - their