Chapter 58: Target: Thunderbirds
For me, it posed no significant challenge; I had already completed the tasks involving the giant spider monsters and cave hounds. Although the swamp dragons were formidable adversaries, after acquiring the *Complete Grimoire of Max's Spells*, I felt confident in my ability to independently achieve the goal of slaying ten swamp dragons.
The Night Witches, while somewhat dispersed, no longer presented a challenge to me. The only remaining obstacles in my path were the final two tasks: capturing twenty thunderbirds and hunting five little hunt demons.
The thunderbirds nest on the cliffs at the southernmost tip of Demon Island, making them among the most formidable creatures on this small isle. Their innate ability to manipulate lightning grants them immunity to the vast majority of physical attacks, and their speed in flight is unparalleled. Though avian creatures typically have lower offensive and defensive capabilities, the thunderbirds reign supreme here, virtually without natural enemies, thanks to their aerial superiority.
The little hunt demons, born as spellcasters, can only wield magic of a single attribute, yet their magical prowess rivals that of adventurers who have mastered levels four and five spells, rendering them among the most perilous beings on Demon Island. Compared to the little hunt demons, the Night Witches are little more than targets.
The mission from the Demon Sealing Corps training camp was exceedingly difficult, and I felt uncertain about continuing. With Snoke relaying support from the Lock Group, I decided to test my luck at treasure hunting; perhaps a solution would reveal itself.
Upon awakening from my meditation, I noticed that Snoke, Bullet, and the Wolf King had all completed their absorption of the potion's effects. The already fearsome Snoke now exhibited muscles beneath his clothing that bulged like living creatures, suggesting an explosive power within.
Recalling the details from the potion's instruction manual, I mused, "It seems that only by depleting my entire resources and taking a berserker pill can I hope to contend with Snoke in his current state. Such a domineering potion is a treasure of level five or higher on Demon Island, yet the Lock Group has managed to develop it themselves—indicating that their hidden power runs deep."
I casually issued the command: "To capture the thunderbirds, we need some resilient giant nets. Let's aim to catch enough thunderbirds today so we can depart the island by afternoon or evening. Everyone, prepare separately!"
This mission differed significantly from the previous one against the swamp dragons. Even Snoke did not oppose my commanding presence. I located a communal computer in the café, inserted my auction card, and purchased a set of large scrolls essential for drawing magical circles along with other necessary supplies.
Alchemy is distinct from magic; it requires a substantial amount of materials. Although the *Eternal Wing Technique* is a relatively simple alchemical magic circle, the support of Platinum Glory has considerably reduced the needed items. Nevertheless, the fundamental components must still be prepared, and drawing the magic circle for the *Eternal Wing Technique* will take some time. I did not even return to my room; I began preparations right there in the café. By the time the Wolf King and the others emerged from the supermarket, I had already rolled out twelve giant scrolls.
I pointed to the items on the ground and said, "As long as we activate these alchemical magic circle scrolls and draw the target into them, we can create magical wings. However, the suction is rather weak; improper handling could easily render them useless. I lack the energy for a second attempt, so there aren't many opportunities for backup. Everyone take one scroll!" Snoke grabbed a scroll of alchemical magic the thickness of his arm and exclaimed, "Let's set off as quickly as possible; I hope we can complete the task within a few days. We must locate the rainbow fruit."
With a collective cheer, we strode out confidently. As I boarded the helicopter at the hotel entrance, I glanced back and happened to see Tianhong exiting the hotel as well. She appeared momentarily stunned upon spotting me, but Lilith had already activated the helicopter's engine, leaving me no time to greet her. "It seems that girl has never left the hotel; what could she be here for?"
This thought flickered through my mind before I immersed myself once more in the *Complete Grimoire of Max's Spells*.
This tome documented nearly a thousand spells; beyond the few foundational universal spells that even ordinary people could cast, the remaining spells required a considerable expenditure of mental energy, for the essence of magic lies in the utilization of spiritual power.
Max's magic, in truth, discards the intricate principles and theoretical systems of traditional magic, retaining only the most direct applications of magical research. Even someone like me, who knows virtually nothing about magic, could quickly grasp its usage, undoubtedly thanks to my high lineage of spiritual power.
I had no idea what lineage I hailed from, nor how my ancestors had intermixed, leaving me, their wayward descendant, such a rich legacy.
Throughout our journey, the Wolf King and his companions diligently rehearsed their battle plans and prepared their weapons, wisely refraining from disturbing my studies. When we finally spotted the thunderbirds, their sharp cries cutting through the sea breeze as they soared and circled, Akai Jinfu quietly asked, "Wang Lin, do you believe we have a chance to obtain that treasure?"
Having used the hotel's network to research the winged magic apes, I knew we stood little chance in a direct confrontation. Those creatures could run at speeds nearing two hundred kilometers per hour, equivalent to one-sixth the speed of sound. Although their wings could only glide after gaining momentum from a sprint, their presence was still terrifying. We would likely have no opportunity to react before they attacked and killed us.
Upon hearing Akai Jinfu's words, my expression remained unchanged as I replied quietly, "The winged magic ape possesses an energy shield similar to that of the swamp dragons. Unless we employ spiritual bullets, we cannot inflict any harm upon it. The winged magic ape is not as foolish as the swamp dragon to remain stationary and await our assault.
"If the swamp dragon didn't comprehend evasion, we would have been unable to slay it with ordinary firearms. Our aerial advantage would also vanish against the winged magic ape, capable of soaring hundreds of meters into the sky."
The Wolf King, an astute warrior, provided a thorough analysis. However, after stating that, he declared loudly, "But what does that prove? There is only one kind of war that is doomed to failure: one that surrenders before it even begins.
"We are not beasts; we are the most intelligent of humans. I refuse to believe that we cannot defeat a mere winged monkey.
"For now, let us deal with these thunderbirds; they may hold the key to reversing our fortunes. I look forward to sprouting wings upon my back; that would be quite a sight."
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone