Chapter 5: Spirit Rune Master and Spirit Warrior

Chapter 5: Spirit Rune Master and Spirit Warrior

Accompanied by the crisp chirping of birds, dawn’s light pierced the sky, and the deep blue night gradually turned to a blend of gold and pink.

A ray of sunlight fell on Cang Cheng's face, gently illuminating it with a golden light.

Annoyed, Cang Cheng pulled the blanket over his head, trying to block out the sunlight.

However, this made the air under the blanket uncomfortably thin, causing Cang Cheng to feel a bit stuffy.

After another ten minutes, Cang Cheng, feeling suffocated, finally poked his head out from under the blanket, revealing his irritated expression.

He rolled over and clung to the blanket with his arms and legs.

Because of this movement, his shirt rode up slightly, revealing a strip of his pale, overly slender waist, his skin seeming whiter than the moonlight.

A few minutes later, he was finally forced out of bed by the bright sunlight, though he really didn’t want to.

Hilmeth observed Cang Cheng’s childlike actions silently.

After just one night, Hilmeth sensed that the continuous weakening of his soul had ceased. Not only did it stop, but his condition had even slightly improved.

It was clear that this improvement was due to the temporary contract between him and Cang Cheng.

But how was Cang Cheng able to do this?

He wondered, but for now, there was no answer.

After Cang Cheng finished washing up and emerged from the bathroom, he was faced with a dark wall.

Cang Cheng instinctively jumped back.

He exclaimed in annoyance, "You scared me to death! Why didn’t you say anything?"

"Apologies, I didn't mean to startle you."

"It’s fine, I’m okay."

With that, Cang Cheng directly passed through Hilmeth's body, as a subtle form of retaliation.

The human and the spirit went downstairs for a meal. Seeing the table laden with nutrient drinks, Cang Cheng’s expression darkened.

"Today, in addition to the usual fruit flavors, we have new dish-flavored nutrient drinks, including seared steak, sour and spicy fish, and sweet and sour chicken. These flavors are extremely popular on the central planet, with daily sales over ten million."

Philip explained dutifully.

Cang Cheng remained unmoved.

How much longer do I have to endure this awful-tasting nutrient drink?

"Master, if these flavors aren’t to your liking, I can procure some caviar-flavored nutrient drinks from the guild. Many Awakened enjoy this flavor, priced at 900 star coins per vial."

Simon’s injuries had largely healed thanks to the medical device. The hair that was cut off by the Blade of Wind yesterday has regrown completely.

He got up very early today and tidied himself up, then hurried to the Central Mansion to show his absolute loyalty to Cang Cheng.

For the consideration of his life, Simon thought, he must serve Cang Cheng well.

Cang Cheng remained unmoved by the 900-star-coin nutrient drink.

He waved his hand, indicating it wasn't needed, then picked up an orange-flavored nutrient drink and drank it without showing any emotion.

Right after, he drank a cup of sugary water to rinse out the strange taste in his mouth.

It tasted unpleasant.

He really didn’t want to drink the nutrient drink again.

As soon as Cang Cheng finished drinking the water, two hands appeared before him.

One hand wore a white glove, and the other was plump, adorned with rings.

"My Lord, allow me to clean up for you."

"Hand me the cup!"

Philip and Simon said in unison.

As soon as they finished speaking, they looked at each other, a silent rivalry ignited between them.

Philip believed that, as Cang Cheng's butler, it was his responsibility to serve his current master well.

Simon, however, believed that as Cang Cheng's servant, his foremost duty was to ensure Cang Cheng's contentment. If his master ever became displeased, Simon's life could be in danger.

Each believed he was in the right.

In the end, Cang Cheng handed the cup to Philip.

He simply couldn't stand Simon's chubby hands; they reminded him of the plump hooves of certain animals, which stirred his hunger.

With the cup in hand, Philip was elated, humming a tune as he refilled Cang Cheng's glass.

Despite his temporary setback, Simon remained undeterred. He presented the neatly organized market list to Cang Cheng, his head bowed in respect.

"My lord, here is the price list for the Sunset Market. Please review it."

Photon Electromagnetic Cannon S928 — 3,160,000 star coins

Electromagnetic Interference Flashbang — 30,000 star coins each

...

C-grade Acceleration Rune — 30,000 star coins

B-grade Acceleration Rune — 300,000 star coins

Blank Spirit Runes — 1,000 star coins

...

Summer Clothing — 50 star coins

Grooming Kit — 10 star coins

...

Basic Flavored Nutrient Solution (100 units) — 300 Star Coins

Advanced Flavored Nutrient Solution (100 units) — 30,000 Star Coins

Basic Internal Healing Elixir — 500 Star Coins

Basic External Healing Balm — 300 Star Coins

Cang Cheng was not familiar with the prices of items in the Canglan Star Region, so he asked the knowledgeable spirit.

Hirimes: [The prices are quite fair; they only cover the cost of transportation. However, some of the weapons aren’t really necessary for Luori Star. It would be better to replace the electromagnetic cannon with something more portable and affordable, such as a lightsaber. Someone on Luori Star might find it useful.

You should stock up on more nutrient solutions and daily necessities, just to be safe.

Also, you should buy a few Spirit Runes for yourself, you’ll need them in the afternoon.]

Cang Cheng naturally praised him, saying, [It’s great to have you around, Mo.]

Hirimes, remaining brief: [Mm-hmm.]

Cang Cheng relayed Hirimes’s suggestions.

Simon nodded repeatedly and took the chance to revise the inventory list.

After finishing the revision, Simon looked up at Cang Cheng but quickly averted his eyes, he looked hesitant.

Cang Cheng: “If you have something to say, just speak your mind.”

Simon, speaking eloquently: “Yesterday, the Air Spirit Runes you used were unlike anything I’ve ever seen! They were unmatched in sharpness and beauty…”

“Enough,” Cang Cheng interrupted, “Get to the point.”

Simon, flinching slightly, asked quietly, “Sir, will you sell the Spirit Runes you’ve drawn? If you do, may I request to be your agent…”

The Lion Chamber had always wanted to expand its trade in Spirit Runes but lacked the channels.

If Simon could secure the exclusive sales rights to the Lord’s Spirit Runes, it would certainly take the chamber’s development to the next level. He would also gain more influence within the Lion Chamber.

Although Cang Cheng was not familiar with Spirit Runes, he guessed from Simon’s words that the other party had mistaken the basic wind magic 'Wind Blade' he used yesterday for a Spirit Rune from this world.

Cang Cheng asked casually, "Hmm? How much can it be sold for?"

Simon began to calculate.

"Although yesterday’s Spirit Rune is rare, its attack power is a bit lacking. I estimate it to be a C-grade Spirit Rune. But because it’s indeed rare, I estimate that with our efforts, each could sell for around 100,000 star credits."

Given that the average selling price for a C-grade Spirit Rune is 30,000 star credits, 100,000 was already a high price.

With assets totaling over 70 million, Cang Cheng wasn’t particularly interested in the price of 100,000 star credits.

"I see... I'll think about it. Prepare for the market!"

After Simon left, Cang Cheng went to the study on the second floor.

Philip had already updated the study’s furniture to the latest models from the Lion Chamber.

A smooth, curved white floating desk, an automatic white floating chair, and a wall-sized ultra-clear projection display... The floor was also covered with a soft light brown carpet.

Sitting in the chair, it automatically adjusted its height and the curvature of the chair back to fit him. Despite its solid metal appearance, it was surprisingly comfortable.

Very comfortable.

After adjusting his sitting position, Cang Cheng called out, "Mo, come teach me about the guns and Spirit Runes."

The eyes of the forbidden spellcaster shone with eagerness to learn.

Hilmeth went straight to the point.

"Let's start with the history of the Canglan Star Region..."

"It has been over three thousand years since the Canglan Star Region entered the space age. In the first three thousand years, the Canglan Star Region focused entirely on technological development, creating powerful thermal weapons. Devastating weapons like electromagnetic cannons, dual magnetic guns, and laser guns were all developed during this period.

At the same time, starships, mechs, and mobile fortresses, capable of interstellar combat, were once very popular."

"It can be said that during that period, metal machinery dominated the scene."

As Hilmeth continued his explanation, Cang Cheng visualized a civilization completely different from the Siaxi world.

This civilization had no magic, no martial qi, no non-human races, no Gate of Truth, and no gods. It consisted of colossal machines crafted from steel and advanced technology.

However, despite the marked differences between the two civilizations, both were equally prosperous and powerful.

"The Canglan Star Region was once arrogant and self-important, believing it was the undisputed king of the universe. However... nearly 400 years ago, a war with an alien star region led to a humiliating defeat for the Canglan Star Region.

The alien race used a combat method known as Spirit Runes, endowing fighters with unimaginable powers. The aliens could tear apart mechs with their bare hands and, wielding a gun the size of an arm, obliterated the Canglan Star Region’s proud warships with a single shot, leaving not a trace behind."

"As a result of that defeat, the Canglan Star Region lost a quarter of its territory and suffered heavy losses.

It was only after that battle that the people of the Canglan Star Region realized they were considered a Grade D civilization, the lowest tier, by other star regions because they couldn’t use Spirit Runes in combat.

Spirit Runes became the mark of a superior civilization.

That battle was called the *Canglan Awakening War*."

Cang Cheng asked, "So... did the Canglan Star Region start developing Spirit Runes after that?"

"Yes. After that, awakened individuals began to emerge in the Canglan Star Region. Among them, there were Spirit Warriors, mainly responsible for combat, Spirit Rune Masters, responsible for support roles, and other auxiliary professions such as alchemists and manufacturers."

"So, you are a Spirit Warrior?"

Cang Cheng sized Hilmeth up. With his tall stature and a body full of power, he clearly looked like someone who could fight.

"Yes, I am an S+ ranked Spirit Warrior."

Hilmeth admitted.

"Awakened individuals are ranked from Grade D to Grade S, based on their awakened abilities and mental strength.

Spirit Warriors typically have high physical strength but weaker mental power, while Spirit Rune Masters are the opposite. Of course, there are those whose physical strength and mental power are comparable, but such individuals are uncommon."

Cang Cheng asked curiously, "What about you? I’d say your strength is S+, and your mental power is probably... A?"

Hilmeth nodded. "Something like that."

Actually, Hilmeth’s mental power is rated S. However, his mental strength is unstable, and since Spirit Rune Masters operate in a supportive, behind-the-scenes capacity, Hilmeth chose to become a Spirit Warrior instead.

"Spirit Warriors have outstanding physical abilities and strength, and they enhance the effects of Spirit Runes using their energy, making battles more unpredictable.

In contrast, Spirit Rune Masters use their mental strength to draw Spirit Runes.

Spirit Runes are categorized based on their effects, ranging from D to S-grade. The higher the grade, the wider the range and the more powerful the effects.

There are three methods for drawing Spirit Runes: carrier-drawing, non-carrier-drawing, and invasive-drawing methods.

Carrier-drawing is the most common method, and Spirit Rune boards are created using this method. However, each use of a Spirit Rune board renders it ineffective, which makes high-grade Spirit Rune boards highly sought after.

What you drew without a carrier yesterday is known as non-carrier drawing.

Invasive drawing involves infiltrating another person’s mental domain to implant a Spirit Rune, an extremely dangerous method that is considered taboo.

At this point, Hilmeth paused, waiting for Cang Cheng to understand.

Cang Cheng grasped part of it.

He found this realization quite clever.

Hilmeth pointed to a Spirit Rune board on the table.

"This is a Spirit Rune board used for drawing Spirit Runes.

Spirit Rune boards are also installed on firearms to enhance their effectiveness. A single firearm can hold up to three Spirit Rune boards.

Hearing this, Cang Cheng understood vaguely.

"Oh... Spirit Rune boards are attached to weapons; they are not magic scrolls but magical inscriptions."

Cang Cheng asked, "So, which Spirit Runes are popular now?"

"The acceleration rune, which boosts the firing speed of thermal weapons, the deceleration rune, which slows enemies within its range, the electromagnetic distortion rune, which disrupts electromagnetic flows, and the accuracy rune, which boosts hit chance... These spirit runes are all very popular."

Cang Cheng's brows furrowed slightly.

Why do these spirit runes' effects sound like they're all for support?

Spirit rune masters seem a bit like shamans, applying debuffs and such.

But... don’t spirit rune masters also create inscriptions similar to magic runes?

Earlier, Simon even mistook my Wind Blade for a spirit rune.

That’s clearly a mage’s signature, right?!

So what exactly is the role of a spirit rune master?

And why do spirit rune masters have to create spirit runes for spirit warriors to use? Wouldn’t they be stronger if they fought on the front lines themselves?

Hilmeth noticed Cang Cheng’s confusion and asked, "What's wrong? Is there something you’re puzzled about?"

Puzzled, Cang Cheng said, "I'm wondering why spirit rune masters have to create support runes for spirit warriors. Can't they fight themselves?"

Hilmeth found Cang Cheng's question strange, as to him, this should be common knowledge and quite basic.

But he still answered.

"Spirit rune masters are considered a support class needing protection due to their low physical strength."

"As long as the spirit rune master neutralizes the enemy before they can deal damage, that should be enough, right? It doesn’t seem to require much physical strength or be particularly difficult."

Cang Cheng said naturally.

"Moreover, spirit rune masters are undoubtedly more skilled at using spirit runes."

Hilmeth had never heard anyone assess spirit rune masters in that manner before.

If it were before yesterday, Hilmeth wouldn’t have agreed with Cang Cheng. Because the spirit runes spirit rune masters can currently draw don’t allow them to exhibit combat effectiveness on the battlefield. Instead, they need to coordinate with spirit warriors, which increases the margin for error for both sides.

However, after seeing Cang Cheng use the ‘Wind’ spirit rune yesterday, Hilmeth thought there might be some truth to Cang Cheng’s words.

If it were spirit runes like the ones from yesterday, there's a real chance we could control Spirit Warriors.

However… that's just wishful thinking.

Spirit rune masters are generally less physically strong, so it's uncertain if they can cope with intense matches.

Taking the opportunity, Hilmes suggested, "Why don't you create a spirit pattern board and test it in the holographic world?"

Cang Cheng was eager to try. "That's exactly what I wanted to do," he said.