บท 102: Judina
Above the city, numerous formidable individuals adept at various flying contraptions hovered effortlessly, their own strength allowing them to defy gravity, evoking my deep envy.
It seems the residents here possess a far superior status compared to those at the Grand Hotel on Demon Island; no wonder even the wages for labor are paid in cards and treasures." With my magical wings folded, I descended at the entrance of the amusement park, which was shielded by a protective barrier that prevented me from flying directly inside.
When I presented my guide contract to the towering demon at the gate, adorned with four bat-like wings and two pairs of arms, he chuckled heartily, extending a massive hand that enveloped me in a soft, white light. The next moment, I found myself in a spacious office, facing a large glass window that overlooked the bustling seaside amusement park.
"Are you the new guide? You appear quite youthful. Which mercenary group do you belong to?" A melodious voice resonated in my ear. Turning around, I was instantly captivated by the sight before me. The woman, dressed impeccably in stylish attire and holding a coffee cup, exuded a sense of languid elegance as she stood beside a grand desk, gazing downwards. The gentle sunlight bathed her in a warm glow, as if it were vying for her attention.
I'm a trainee from the Fengmo Mercenary Corps; I'm curious when I can commence my duties."
"Impatient, are we? Won't you sit down for a cup of coffee?" My mind was overwhelmed, as if a thousand suns had exploded within it. The words of the enchanting woman echoed with an uncanny familiarity, reminiscent of a scene from either the past or the future. Dark clouds swirled ominously, and a remarkably dashing figure stood atop a mountain, exuding an air of unshakeable confidence, surrounded by tempestuous magic.
His presence was akin to a rising tide, powerful and relentless, as if he could command the very heavens at his whim.
"Mostima, your speed is unrivaled among the demon race, surpassing all in the three realms. However, to kill me, you will need many more millennia of training."
The one who spoke such bold words was none other than the woman inviting me for coffee. She had changed into a high-quality outfit, featuring a black lace shirt beneath a knee-length coat with turned-back cuffs, complemented by straight beige trousers that accentuated her graceful figure.
While she lacked Mostima's regal aura, she possessed an ethereal charm that was equally captivating. What astonished me further was that this beauty stood suspended in mid-air, above a turbulent sea of darkness and howling winds.
"...Not exactly a demanding employer!" As the premonition faded, the words of the woman who had invited me for coffee seamlessly intertwined, sending a chill down my spine. Both Mostima and this woman seemed to harbor remarkable secrets; who exactly were they?
Ah! You are quite intriguing; I cannot discern your power."
She drained her coffee and, with a casual flick, made the cup vanish into thin air. With a smile, she extended her hand towards me, introducing herself: "I am Judina. One of the administrators of Demon Island, and this amusement park is my investment. You pique my interest, and I hope for a long-term collaboration if the opportunity arises."
"The administrator of Demon Island?" The title made my heart race, nearly escaping my lips. This was a figure of considerable stature—surely far beyond the pretentious individuals within the Fengmo Mercenary Corps. As I grasped her delicate hand, my palm was slick with sweat.
I had not anticipated that this commission would originate from an administrator of Demon Island; yet, it was hardly surprising, as such an amusement park could hardly be constructed by ordinary individuals.
Legend has it that every island and continent has its sovereign. If one can please the ruler of the world, they may reap boundless rewards. I wonder if this beauty named Judina is merely assisting the ruler in managing Demon Island, or if she is the ruler herself?"
The vision I had glimpsed earlier offered me a mere glimpse into her true nature; the title of Temporal Guardian certainly held intrigue.
I dared not seek clarification from this administrator before me, so I buried my questions deep within my heart.
To maintain the balance of the thematic world, your powers gained on Demon Island will be sealed upon entering the Calamity. However, equipment will be provided to you, and with your abilities, you will adapt swiftly."
I sensed her delicate fingers gently exploring the contours of my palm, devoid of any suggestive intent; she was merely probing the fluctuations of my power. The silver sigil on my palm remained unresponsive to her energy, and after failing to glean anything, Judina reluctantly released my hand, her exquisite brows knitting slightly.
"You possess the Heart of the Undead Warrior; the Calamity is indeed well-suited for you. However, are you not interested in themes such as the Path of the Dead, the Four Souls, the Book of Wind and Cloud, or the Promised Return?"
Thank you, but I prefer the Calamity, where at least there are still living beings." "Then I wish you all the best!"
Judina smiled faintly, and before I could blink, I found myself in a dilapidated farmstead. I was among the first to arrive, and after a few moments, those I was meant to guide began to materialize around me.
"I had expected her to have much more to say; this woman is quite efficient, not one to dawdle." I grumbled inwardly, casting a cold glance at these individuals who had been snatched from the path of the afterlife, uncertain whether their fate was fortunate or unfortunate. Their memories lingered at the moment of their demise, and their reactions to this peculiar realm varied widely—some bewildered, others murmuring to themselves, a few remaining calm, while others displayed hysteria or timidly searched for a safe haven.
I refrained from leaping out and exclaiming, "I am here to guide you!"
as that would have been foolish. Instead, I observed their reactions with a discerning eye, assessing who might be worthy of focused training and who would be a lost cause.
As Judina, the administrator of Demon Island, had stated, the nameless martial arts techniques, my Platinum Glory, and various attribute-enhancing treasures and cards within me were rendered ineffective; I could not summon the Book of Demons.
Yet, I felt little panic. Although the powers bestowed by Demon Island were inaccessible, I still possessed other abilities, not solely reliant on those derived from the Book of Demons.
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