Lord of Mysteries: Starting As A Reader

"Kalvetua?" Laticia mused as she proceeded deeper into the trial temple. "That's the 'Sea God' worshiped by the natives of the Rorsted Archipelago before colonization… Even today, many believers still revere this deity, who often manifests as a giant sea serpent, believing it can protect their islands from earthquakes and tsunamis."

She paused, reflecting. It originated in the Third Epoch? Even if it was at the very end of the epoch, that places it at over 2,500 years old… How has it survived this long?

Perhaps its offspring inherited its traits and title. Or maybe it found another means to extend its lifespan…

Her thoughts shifted to her organization's "Pillars" and the legendary Arloir ancestor of her family, who also reportedly lived for over two millennia. Even though the ancestor ascended to demi-godhood using the blood of a Vampire Duke, such longevity was exceptional. After all, most Vampires don't live nearly that long.

With these thoughts lingering, Laticia entered the second trial: Will.

---

Meanwhile, Ebner studied the final mural of the previous corridor, which depicted the deep-sea monster forcefully imbued with the Prophet trait. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for the creature.

The image revealed that the monster was a type of ancient Beyonder creature similar to the Storm Church's Abnys Sea Monster but more intelligent. It was known as "Sagusste," and its crystallized blood and brain matter were said to be the main ingredients for mid-sequence potions. However, which pathway they belonged to remained unknown to Ebner.

Regardless of its pathway, Sagusste's forced ascension via the Prophet trait likely led to many complications. Though luck might have initially facilitated a relatively smooth integration, the long-term consequences could be dire.

As for finding and hunting this sea monster for its trait? Ebner shook his head. First, it's possible that Sagusste was already hunted down long ago. Even if it's still alive, how would I locate it in such an expansive ocean?

As the corridor's crystal lights dimmed once again, Ebner chose not to linger. He stepped forward, pushing open the grand double doors at the corridor's end, entering the trial chamber.

---

This chamber was vastly different from the pitch-black expanse of the Trial of Courage. Although dimly lit compared to the corridor, it was far from dark. Soft light filtered through various crystals embedded in the dome, casting the chamber in a serene glow.

The chamber was divided into two distinct zones.

On one side, ethereal elven figures danced and sang in mesmerizing harmony. They gestured alluringly toward Ebner, their movements filled with suggestive intent. Some held platters with delicacies resembling congealed animal blood on twigs, offering them as tantalizing treats.

"These elven figures are somewhat attractive," Ebner thought, squinting at their features. "But their skin tones and hair colors aren't really my type. And why are there two male elves here? What's the point of that? Negative points!"

He turned his attention to the food. "As for the dishes... Blood pudding, maybe? It does look familiar, but I wasn't fond of it even in my previous life. And the spices are far too basic—this is worse than what the cooks on Daville Island can whip up. Negative points again!"

His gaze drifted to the flasks and jars. "Are those fruit wines? The brewing technique is atrocious, and the floating debris in the drinks is unacceptable—no filtration? Negative points all around."

Ebner scoffed at the meager temptations, feeling that using such uninspired offerings to test his willpower was almost insulting. There was no way such mundane things could sway him.

However, his nonchalance quickly dissipated when the trial escalated.

As time passed, the invisible boundary dividing the chamber shifted incrementally toward the elves' side. Meanwhile, on Ebner's side, an oppressive atmosphere began to take hold, growing increasingly stifling. A vague unease evolved into specific sensations: hunger, thirst, and restlessness.

These sensations weren't physical but directly affected his mind, bypassing his body. They didn't inflict outright harm but were persistent and maddeningly invasive. Even with the Pure White Eye active, Ebner couldn't completely shield himself from the effects.

This is the true nature of the Trial of Will.

---

"Now it's clear," Ebner deduced, straining to think through the growing mental discomfort. "This room operates on a 12-point scale. The line dividing the chamber starts at the central 6-point mark.

"Staying on my side causes the scale to shift toward 12 over time. Reaching 12 likely means passing the trial. But as the scale climbs, the intensity of the mental and spiritual strain will also increase.

"Crossing to the other side reverses the process—the scale retreats toward 0. Hitting 0 likely results in failure.

"If I were in 'Mechanical Mind' mode, I'd devise a calculated plan: endure until I reach my limit, then retreat to the other side for recovery before returning to resume the trial. Rinse and repeat, slowly advancing toward 12 in a spiral pattern.

"But that's a trap. People aren't machines and can't execute such plans perfectly. Once someone allows themselves to seek solace in the opposite side's indulgence, it becomes harder to return. They'll keep finding excuses to 'rest' longer.

"This trial requires unwavering commitment. It's either endure to the end or fail—there's no middle ground."

Ebner analyzed the situation meticulously, using intellectual engagement as a distraction from the gnawing sensations. Yet, occasional glances toward the other side still made him gulp involuntarily, his mouth dry as a desert.

"Damn it, and I'm only at scale 7…" Ebner muttered, just as the boundary shifted to 8. The sensations doubled in intensity. Compounding the physical discomfort, his ears now filled with seductive whispers and illusory murmurs. The temperature around him seemed to rise as well, the heat prickling uncomfortably against his exposed skin.

"This won't work…" he realized, gritting his teeth. "Though I pride myself on my resolve, I grew up in peaceful times. Even after transmigrating, I haven't faced any truly harrowing hardships.

"Compared to the elves of chaotic eras, my resistance to pain is sorely lacking.

"If it comes to experiencing outright torture or torment later, I definitely won't hold out..."

But is there a way to circumvent these direct mental assaults and their feedback on my body?

Suddenly, an idea struck him.

Fors. Whenever she's in the 'Sea of Fog,' the direct mental effects of her affliction vanish! If I can similarly reach the Fool's domain, I could wait out the trial's progression without suffering!

Formulating his plan swiftly, Ebner activated his Pure White Eye to simulate an ice-cold ability, briefly refreshing himself. He then clasped his hands together in a posture of prayer and began to chant in ancient Hermes:

"To the Fool who does not belong to this era;

"The Mysterious Ruler above the gray fog;

"The King of Yellow and Black, who wields good fortune."

---

In Backlund, behind the Brave Bar's back entrance in the Empress Borough…

Wearing a flat cap, Klein cautiously shielded the wallet tucked inside his gray-blue work jacket as he followed Maric into a horse-drawn carriage. Opposite him, Sharon materialized on the seat, her blond hair shimmering faintly.

"What brings you here?" Sharon asked succinctly.

"I wanted to inquire if you had any leads on materials I'm searching for… Additionally, I'm interested in acquiring some advanced occult books," Klein replied.

Sharon's ethereal blue eyes met his. "The Book of Secrets by Kalaman Sorcerer.

"One favor in exchange."

End of Chapter.