Beyond the Apocalypse
Chapter 651: Legendary Space Bloodline (II)

Chapter 651: Legendary Space Bloodline (II)

The deal was now complete, but suddenly Vlad’s eyes sharpened, and a solemn expression emerged on his face, instantly capturing the attention of the two men in front of him. Elder Damian and Marshal Maximo paused their casual demeanor, sensing Vlad had something crucial to add.

"At this moment, the runic diagram is in your hands, and there’s nothing the Zanis Association can do to prevent it from spreading throughout the Empire and even further," Vlad said calmly, his voice firm and measured. "However, I’m certain they will not simply accept their loss quietly. They will inevitably seek revenge against the individual responsible for creating the formation."

Both Elder Damian and Marshal Maximo’s expressions darkened slightly upon hearing Vlad’s warning. They knew he was entirely correct. Even if the Zanis Association gained nothing directly from retaliation, they would undoubtedly aim their fury at the person who had shattered their monopoly on formations capable of combating the chaotic energy of The Darkness.

Elder Damian contemplated the matter carefully before responding. "Everyone aware of your involvement in developing this runic formation knows the importance of secrecy. Apart from the Emperor himself, no one else will be informed of our arrangement. I’ll also personally ensure the runic formation’s origins remain concealed as long as possible."

Damian paused briefly, his face betraying a reluctant acceptance of reality. "Unfortunately, the news about this formation’s existence will inevitably spread. Even if we reveal nothing about its creator, anyone determined enough to uncover its source will eventually succeed. Observing the unusual events in the Golden Sky Fortress over the past year would naturally draw suspicion to you. Coupled with your extraordinary runic talents, your identity won’t remain hidden forever."

Vlad acknowledged the elder’s truthful assessment with a resolute nod. Clenching his fists tightly, he spoke firmly, eyes blazing with unyielding determination and potent killing intent. "I have no delusions about remaining hidden forever. My only desire is to buy enough time to rise to a level where I can protect myself from anything they throw my way."

Marshal Maximo silently admired Vlad’s unwavering resolve, feeling genuine respect for the young runemaster’s courage. "You have already rendered an immense service to our Empire and the entire side of The Light," Maximo assured him solemnly. "Rest assured, I will personally guarantee your safety in the Land of the Three Calamities. Anyone seeking your life out of petty vengeance will first have to face me."

Vlad’s expression softened into a warm, appreciative smile upon hearing the Marshal’s heartfelt promise. He knew Maximo wasn’t making empty assurances; even if an entire legion of Legends demanded Vlad’s head, the Marshal would face them without hesitation.

"Thank you," Vlad responded sincerely. "I’ll take my leave now."

He respectfully nodded toward Elder Damian and Marshal Maximo before departing the castle swiftly, heading straight back to his residence.

Upon returning, Vlad closed the door behind him, immediately entering deep meditation. Sitting cross-legged on the floor, he directed his internal energy throughout his body, gradually pushing his energy pool toward its limits.

For months now, Vlad had deliberately suppressed his cultivation, carefully consolidating his foundation and fortifying his inner strength. However, with the impending arrival of his Legendary Bloodline, the time had finally come to break through.

He would use the powerful energy surge provided by the implantation to propel himself directly into Level 19, becoming a true Sage and awakening his long-awaited Sage Ability.

Within a short time, Vlad’s energy reached its boiling point. Coincidentally, at that very moment, he detected someone approaching his residence. Rising quickly, Vlad opened the door to find Elder Damian standing there, personally holding a small black box.

The extraordinary value of a Legendary Space Bloodline was simply too high, and the old strategist trusted no one else to handle such a vital delivery.

"Contained within is the bloodline, as well as a crystal detailing the exact technique necessary for its safe implantation," Damian said, handing the box over carefully.

"Thank you, Elder," Vlad replied with genuine gratitude. Both men nodded respectfully to one another before Damian quietly departed, returning to the Marshal’s castle.

Vlad wasted no time. He immediately retreated to the core of his residence, placing the precious box before him. With a swift wave of his hand, he caused hundreds of energy crystals to explode simultaneously, instantly flooding the chamber with an ocean of incredibly pure, vibrant energy.

So dense was the energy that it condensed into a glowing, liquid-like state, suffusing the room completely. Even breathing in such concentrated energy felt as though his energy pool might burst at any moment.

Carefully, Vlad opened the black box, revealing a small vial containing a single, dark droplet of blood floating mysteriously within. Beside it lay a translucent crystal filled with shimmering runes.

Vlad carefully picked up the crystal, sending a stream of consciousness into it. Instantly, a wealth of detailed knowledge flooded his mind, vividly depicting each precise step required to replace his existing bloodline with the Legendary Space Bloodline.

Thanks to his powerful A.I. Chip, Vlad effortlessly memorized every complex detail of the implantation procedure. Without hesitation, he began channeling his energy exactly according to the instructions. After five intense minutes, a strange, swirling dark vortex materialized directly over Vlad’s chest, aligned perfectly with his heart.

At this critical moment, Vlad decisively crushed the vial containing the Legendary blood. Immediately, the vortex surged forward, seizing control of the droplet of blood and drawing it forcefully into his heart.

The instant the bloodline entered Vlad’s body, a tremendous surge of agony exploded within him. He felt as though his body were set ablaze from the inside out, pain coursing mercilessly through his veins and bones.

Blood began leaking from his eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, dripping steadily down his pale skin. Despite the unbearable torment, Vlad’s mind remained resolute. He refused to succumb or lose his concentration, fully understanding that even the slightest lapse might end in catastrophic failure.

Enduring the immense pain, Vlad guided the bloodline energy deeper within himself, merging it slowly but decisively with his core essence.