Faceless Phantom 36 Chapter 31 - Calm Before The Storm 1

Flesh grew and covered his skeletal face. His beard also sprouted, extended until it reached his chest. His eyes were glowing blue, turning left and right. As they noticed me, he began to stand. His gaze was pointed straight towards mine.

"Burrhahahahahahaha..."

Hagwim laughed.

"Barahumhahahahahahahahaha..."

I put my hand on the hilt of my sword, ready to pull it if Hagwim was going to be mad.

"I remember everything now..." Hagwim smiled. "Thank you, Zeroth laddie."

Thankfully, he seemed conscious about himself. I was relieved and put down my hand from the hilt of my sword. Then I observed his new look.

He became white bearded pale dwarf. Strange, I thought. Perhaps, the infusion changed the remains into a new body. So I used Astral Eyes to check his status.

///////

Hagwim Proudsteel

Hero of Heallance

Race: Undead

Job (Cla.s.s): Dwarf Death Knight (Knight)

Hobby: Master Miner

[Stats]

HP: 25300/25300

MP: 11500/11500

STR 400 VIT 450

DEX 410 AGI 390

INT 370 WIS 380

///////

'25k HP and 11k MP!'

I gulped.

'Average stats of 400 points!'

I gulped again.

Compared to mine, I was pretty much a quarter of his stats. Of course, he was a former hero after all. One of the Heroes who defeated Beleth and Uruzak in the past.

Then suddenly, Hagwim bowed on his knee. I was surprised by his sudden act.

"Umm... Sir, Hagwim... What are you doing?"

"I give my loyalty to you, laddie... No, I shall call you Master from now on."

[Hagwim Proudsteel has become your Subordinate!]

[Requirements Completed!]

[Job Exclusive Skill Acquired][You have learned Dimensional Cubic!]

The soul cubic's aura pulsed like a heartbeat. Then a swirling lights formed beside it. A new cubic was coming out from the tiny portal, creating a surge of energy which was then being absorbed into my body.

A digital window popped out.

///////

Dimensional Cubic

Level 1

Active: A pocket dimensional s.p.a.ce which can be used for storing anything inside.

>The user can open a portal to the place they have visited.

*Portal mana cost depends on the distance of the target point.

Storage Volume: 500 cubic meter

Dimensional s.p.a.ce: 1

///////

Dimensional Storage.

It was actually the same as inventory bag. But the bag I had only had a volume around 15 cubic meter. I could buy another s.p.a.cious ones, of course. However, the bigger the s.p.a.ce was, the more expensive the bag was. Another option was making the bag wider with merchant skills, but it would take different route for someone who already had another hobby.

On the other hand, dimensional storage ability could grow bigger. In some stories or games, it grew depending on the user's capability, stats, or any other things. For this cubic, it seemed it would grow if I leveled it up.

I was happy about the s.p.a.cious inventory that I got for free, but that wasn't what surprised me.

'Dimensional s.p.a.ce!?'

I tapped it and a new window popped out.

///////

Dimensional s.p.a.ce

Δ Niflheim

///////

When I chose Niflheim, a ball of transparent gla.s.s appeared. There was a snowy misty landscape inside. It was like looking at a snow globe. It was so pretty yet mysterious.

Then, another window popped out. It contained the data of the dimensional world.

///////

Niflheim

Owner: Belgram

Status: Abandoned

Current Leader: ???

Population: 100

*You can conquer this dimensional s.p.a.ce once you defeat the leader.

[Open Portal] [Close Window]

///////

'Belgram!'

In a few amount of time, I got multiple amazing things happening at once. However, I didn't have a time to check them all. I had to say something to Hagwim or it would be an awkward silence. I closed all the windows and began to talk.

"B-but, Sir Hagwim. Y-you're way stronger than me. How could you easily said that you will serve under me?"

I said what I could think, because I didn't know what to say. It was the first time I was in this kind of situation.

"I am not worth to be called your Master."

"Ghahahahaha..." Hagwim laughed and stood. "Master, I can see potential within you. You could become way stronger than me if you believe in yourself. Furthermore, our goal is pretty similar. I want to defeat Beleth and Uruzak as well, but this time, I want to completely kill both of them. Then, you can say you don't need me anymore after that. And I will live freely on my own, or perhaps, you can accept me to continue to be your follower. You gave me my body back, so I'll give you my loyalty to fight by your side. Isn't it a great deal?"

Hagwim stretched his hand toward me. I looked at him awkwardly. His teeth were showing on his smile, and he was waiting for me to answer. Honestly, it really was a good deal, no... It was an amazing deal.

Even though I wanted to solo since the first time I started this game, but I kept gaining comrades. Mirage, An egg which soon-to-be Phantasmagoria if hatched, and then Hagwim. Though I didn't mind the second one since it was considered a pet. However, the other two were NPCs which looked like real people.

'Do I really deserve them?'

Somehow, my mentality created a defense mechanism and inconsistency. It made my heart wavering, trying to distance myself and not to get attached with those two. Regardless, I had to accept them. This world was still a game, and they could be an advantage for my character's growth.

"I-I guess..." I sighed and smiled. "I'll be in your care."

I shook his hand.

"Take a good care of me as well, Master."

I felt uncomfortable to be called master, so I suggested Hagwim to stop doing that.

"Please, just call me by my name is enough. You don't have to be so formal with our deal."

"Alright, Zeroth laddie. Hahahaha..." Hagwim laughed.

As we were about to leave the jail, I saw Mirage covered her mouth as she yawned.

"I-Im sorry..." She said as her face became red.

"Hahaha... You two must be tired." Hagwim smiled. "Let me guide you to the bedrooms."

We pa.s.sed through hallway by hallway. No matter how many times I looked, I didn't know how to explain the fanciness of dwarven castle's interior design. I only could describe it as futuristic medieval fantasy. And some parts looked like steam punk. As I appreciated the design, Hagwim began to open his mouth.

"Anyway, Zeroth laddie. Since this town is abandoned, you can take anything in here. Even though there's probably nothing left. I know well my kin greediness, they might already took their belongings with them."

I was still excited with the treasure hunt. Even if it was just an item or two, it would be worth it as long as it was valuable.

"Thanks. I'll explore this town once we take a good rest."

We eventually arrived at a corridor beside a garden. It was the first time I saw underground garden. I sometimes amazed about how some plants could actually live without the sun.

The garden filled with unique and strange plants. Some had glowing leaves. Some had otherworldly shapes. And their colors were mostly brighter shades of green, blue and red. It was very colorful.

I turned my gaze to the left side of the corridor. There were doors which probably led to the bedrooms. Hagwim stopped and turned around to face us.

"Is this okay? Or do you want to take the royal bedrooms?"

"No, it's okay. I don't deserve such luxury." I answered.

"Y-yes, I really like the garden." Mirage added.

"You heard her, we will take one of these rooms." I smiled.

"Alright, I'll be nearby. Just call me if you need anything. Heh haha..."

"Thanks..."

I finally alone inside the bedroom.

'At last, I can check what I got!'

Starting with Dimensional Cubic.

The cubic appeared and then floating in front of me when I called it. I was about to try what the cubic could do, but then it was glowing. Multiple system messages popped out.

[Dimensional Cubic has detected a core]

[Checking the area...]

[Dalgor has no leader]

[You can add Dalgor into Dimensional s.p.a.ce]

[Do you want to claim Dalgor?]

I was flabbergasted.

'What is this?'

I was confused, but I was also intrigued. Claiming Dalgor sounded awesome, and it seemed there was no downside in accepting it.

"Y-yes..."

[Congratulations! You have conquered Dalgor!]

[Dalgor has added to your Dimensional s.p.a.ce]

As if a lady fortune of RNG blessed me with her luck. It felt really strange, in a good way of course.

I opened the Dimensional s.p.a.ce window, and Dalgor was added on the list.

Then I tried to command the cubic to open a portal. It would be way more efficient than opening it from the window.

"Hmmm... Dimensional Cubic, Open Portal?"

///////

• Eldan

• Belgram's Workshop

• Orbania

• Dalgor

• Ruins of New Zoria

• Niflheim

///////

A list of towns I had visited and the dimensional s.p.a.ce was showed in a new window. When I tapped one of them, another list was showed. They were specific locations such as northern part of the town, or the outer wall.

Strangely, Belgram's Workshop was also on the list. Perhaps, there was some kind of core which allowed portal possible to be made. Just like Dalgor.

'I can teleport everywhere without paying money.'

In each town, there was a person who worked as teleporter. They were known as Gatekeepers. They used a spell or magic circle to teleport people to another town. Of course, you needed to pay them to use their facility. The farther your destination was, the more expensive the price you had to pay.

I was interested in other towns when I was still in Eldan. However, it would be a whole new wonderful experience to travel Heallance's beautiful lanscape by feet. Actually, money was also the reason, it costed a good amount of gold coins even if just teleported to the nearest town. But, of course, sightseeing every parts of the fantasy world was what excited me the most.

After that, I opened the storage. The cubic formed a small portal, and then the Dimensional Storage window opened. I expected Belgram left some goods in it. However, there was nothing, not even an item.

Disappointed, I closed it and began to check my Job and Skills window.

[Astral Artisan]

Intermediate

Cla.s.s: Artisan

Job description:

An artisan who can gain access to astral dimensions. Thus, it is possible to create item beyond understanding.

Gained effect:

+ 1000 HP

+ 1000 MP

+ 25 All Stats

>Skills related to Artisan such as crafting, smith, etc. are doubled the experience.

>Due to Astral Artisan profession, DEX and INT growth rate are harshly increased.

Other than the change from Beginner to Intermediate, I didn't see any new stuff to my skills.

'The system message log shows that I unlocked new job exclusive skills, but where are they?'

Perhaps, there were requirements to complete. Just like the Dimensional Cubic, I would acquire the skills when I met with the conditions. However, I had no clue at all.

'Is it related to crafting?'

It was kind of obvious. Since the job was artisan, the skills might be about creating armors, weapons, and stuff. It might be the efficiency in using the materials, or even a technique to make higher rarity items.

If only Belgram was here, I could ask him to give me a clear map about the skill tree of Astral Artisan.

'Ahhh... Let's just think about this later. I need to sleep.'

I yawned and began to lay my body on the bed. Even though my body didn't feel tired, my mind still needed to rest. Not long after I closed my eyes, my consciousness sank.

However, within the darkness, I was awaken again. Then, slowly, the image of the room I slept in came into view. So I tried to move, turning my body into more comfortable position to sleep again, but I couldn't move.

'Huh? I can't move...'

I felt something was pressing my chest. Now matter how I struggled, my body wouldn't move. Not even a finger. Yet I was still calm, because the very experience was familiar to me.

'Sleep paralysis? Inside a game? How?'

It was really strange. This game never ceased to amaze me. However, it wasn't the time for me to compliment the game. I needed to find the one who did it.

It was then I noticed. There were black silhouettes in my room. Two in corners, one near my bed. They were standing there motionlessly.

Then, I didn't know why, my gaze was pulled and turned to my right side. Right beside me, two white eyes were staring at me. Then the silhouette's black face was grinning.

I heard chattering between them.

"The new ruler of Dalgor is an Aphu?"

"Interesting."

"He seems conscious."

"Wh!?"

They were suddenly silent. Something might be happened. Their eyes widened, and I could see they were afraid of something.

"W-who are you!?"

"Aaahhhh!!!"

"Forgive us!!!"

"We beg you...Please..."

"We just need help, faceless one..."

"Tell him..."

"Ask him to avenge us..."

"Young Aphu... Avenge our death..."

"Please...satisfy our revenge..."

"Kill...him..."

"Make him...suffer..."

Somehow, I got annoyed by the commotion. Perhaps, all I wanted was sleeping peacefully at the moment. So I answered them, hoping that they wouldn't bother me anymore.

"Yes, I will...try...to avenge...you..."

The weight on my chest began to lift, and then they began to thank me. I couldn't bear my weariness, so I ignored them. Slowly, my vision blackened and I lost my consciousness.

"Thank you..."

"From now on..."

"We will serve you..."

"My King..."

[You have earned 'King of Dalgor' t.i.tle!]

・・・

"So you're going to travel north to partic.i.p.ate the war against the Dark Army?"

"Yes..."

"I see... Yeah, I heard about the news. However, la.s.s. I think you are not ready yet to join the war. Not with your current power. You need to train your magic even further. Unfortunately, only you can do that."

Bonnie looked disappointed and sad. She really wanted to see the war with her own two eyes. However, she also wanted to experience it too. Watching the war as spectator was good, but partic.i.p.ating in it was way more exciting.

"Is there any other way?" Bonnie asked.

"Hmmm..."

Mel'Jarrad stroke his beard as he was thinking. And an idea came to his mind, so he took a map out from his bag.

"There, if you go that way..." He pointed somewhere northeast, then he opened the map and showed it to Bonnie. "You will eventually reach this mountain. I have a friend who lives over there. I hope she has more knowledge about Stardust Mage."

After that, Mel'Jarrad took a pen and a paper out from his bag. Then, with a spell, he made the pen floating and moving by itself. It was writing something on the paper. As he took out an envelope, the pen stopped and the paper was folded. The paper smoothly entered the envelope and Mel'Jarrad sealed it with a stamp. He gave the sealed letter to Bonnie.

"Her name is Eilene Hexanne. Take this letter to her."

"Thank you, Mel'Jarrad-sensei." Bonnie bowed. "Thank you for everything."

"Now now raise your head. It is an honor to teach a prodigy like yourself, Miss Bonnie. I'm sorry that I have limited sources to teach you. I hope you embark a new height of magic and succeed in defeating the Dark Army."

"Thank you very much. I will do my best. Good bye, sensei!"

"Good bye, la.s.s. May the G.o.ds bless you in your journey."

Bonnie waved her hands to Mel'Jarrad as she walked away to the northeast. She looked at the letter and frowned.

"Ahhh... Being a magician is hard." She sighed, then she shook her head. "There will come a day when I can finally punish evil-doers with my own hands. I will be a true heroine! Ehehehe... With the power of star, I come to punish you!"

Looking at Bonnie's strange behavior from afar, Mel'Jarrad laughed and walked back to his house. His Grimoire followed him by floating around him.

"Ohohoho... I'm gonna miss her."

Bonnie set yet another journey to become a Heroine of Heallance.