Hell Difficulty Tutorial Chapter 810 - Small Talk Only

Moments after the mora known as Vlad met his end, and following numerous smaller skirmishes, I now find myself suspended in this space, detecting no further signs of life.

A sensation of lightheadedness washes over me, and my body is marred by wounds. Despite possessing ample healing marks gifted by Lily, I refrain from utilizing them. Maintaining a vigilant posture and keeping my senses keenly focused on the surroundings, I meticulously sift through the wreckage, seeking any trace of Talnium.

As I drift past Vlad’s inert form, I reach out to grasp his bone swords. The instant my fingers make contact, a scan permeates my being, searching for a specific criterion. Failing to meet the required conditions, the swords disintegrate into dust before my very eyes.

I observe the ethereal dust drift away in the void before turning my attention back to the planet, the sunlit side of which is now visible.

Here, removed from the atmosphere that would normally temper its ferocity, the stellar light burns with amplified intensity, and the temperatures soar to extreme levels. The mere maintenance of the protective barrier around me consumes a significant portion of my mana. The planet itself mirrors the landscape we encountered previously: an endless expanse of sand dunes, devoid of mountains or any bodies of water. Precisely at its center lies a region radiating intense heat, where the sand has liquefied into a vast, incandescent sea of molten glass.

Furthermore, a colossal structure encircles the entire planet. It is positioned far beyond the surface, even beyond the confines of orbit—something situated at an even greater altitude. I struggle to categorize it. Is it a field? A domain? Perhaps an intricate array, or something entirely unforeseen? Its ultimate purpose remains elusive, as it doesn't appear to diminish the brilliance of the neighboring star. All I know is that prolonged observation proves challenging, and I am compelled to restrain my gaze.

The sheer scale is difficult to articulate. Envision a planet roughly the size of a baseball, enveloped by a spherical construct comparable to a basketball. This outer shell either conceals the planet, acts as an insurmountable barrier I’m hesitant to test, or serves some other unknown function. I cannot fathom its power source or origin; it simply exists, encompassing everything.

Navigating through the scattered debris, I gather any items and materials that appear potentially useful. The sheer abundance compels me to liquidate much of it via the system shop, despite receiving only a fraction of its true value—mere tenths, perhaps.

Throughout this process, I continue the practice I adopted upon learning of the implant: observing the fallen combatants and searching for any indication of a signal that a cranial implant might emit—at the moment of combat, at the point of death, or upon its physical destruction. I have rigorously tested these scenarios, paying particular attention to the implants of the more significant figures. Yet, thus far, no such reaction has been detected from any of the implants.

This observation solidifies my understanding that engaging and terminating these individuals carries no adverse repercussions. The same assurance extends to the entirety of Group Four. I eliminated a considerable number of them, and even the destruction of their orbital station drew no significant attention. I have already been adrift here for several minutes, and no powerful entity has emerged to confront me.

Several other points, initially suspected within the tunnels, have now been confirmed. These individuals exhibit no compunction towards killing, as evidenced by the mora’s callous willingness to utilize his own people as disposable teleportation anchors. Additionally, I discovered evidence of torture chambers and captive individuals within the larger base. While this revelation does not drastically alter my circumstances, it does provide a measure of psychological relief, confirming that this particular stratum operates under a more lenient set of laws.

I also survey the planet’s orbital infrastructure for additional bases, but find none within my line of sight. Moreover, no other organizations or corporations appear to be investigating the recent events.

As I mentally retrace the battle, I reaffirm that even if they lacked the individual capability I demonstrated, Group Four collectively could have neutralized these adversaries. Naturally, the difficulty typically escalates incrementally as one progresses through the floors, unless one actively provokes conflict. Therefore, it is plausible that more formidable entities reside here. The most formidable threats are likely the three major Corporations, while the independent organizations are probably less powerful.

I ought to test my strength against one of the Corporations to verify this, but there is no immediate necessity. Based on my understanding of the system's mechanics, they are likely situated either in the planet's hottest region or on its shadowed side.

While suspended in place, awaiting any potential arrivals, I conduct a thorough examination of my own body, searching for any concealed markings. I also investigate some of the pill-like implants I managed to acquire and begin experimenting with my newly obtained skill.

In summation, it proves to be a remarkably effective and advantageous ability.

Having largely concluded that no reinforcements are forthcoming, I retrieve the black orb that has, until this moment, been diligently absorbing all ambient mana remnants. Leaving behind a minuscule portion, I initiate teleportation, being drawn towards my Mana Tree along with all the valuable acquisitions I have recently plundered.

After descending, I take a few minutes to survey my surroundings. Then, the tree begins to tremble and shrink, eventually transforming into a crystal that integrates with the one already on the back of my hand. A small, black orb is left behind, which I'm certain will dissipate shortly after absorbing the ambient mana. I then proceed back towards our cave, hauling the collection of items behind me.

As customary, I apply a few healing marks, consistently marveling at how Lily's mana possesses the ability to mend even a body as damaged as mine.

Upon re-entering the cave, I acknowledge Tess. She is seated near Lily, who is presently attending to Tess's arm, a limb that remains predominantly bone, overlaid with patches of scarred flesh. Tess offers a wave in my direction, while Lily, engrossed in her task, appears entirely oblivious to my presence.

Initially, I examine the orb using a drop of my own blood. I discover that it has been continuously powering the array I established there. Estimating the mana contained within is difficult for me, but I am confident its capacity will increase as my own reserves expand and my unique trait strengthens.

I am certain that if I were to achieve Champion status and subsequently perish, my physical form would enact truly extraordinary transformations upon the environment, much like the bodies on the ninth floor. I ponder if a curious young explorer might approach and detect lingering mana clinging to my remains even decades later. Would the Empyrean Ichor have completely evaporated, or would some of it persist in liquid form? Perhaps an entire city might even be erected around me, utilizing my corpse as a power source.

How incredibly awesome that would be.

Reaching for one of the water bottles on the table, I take several deep draughts, closing my eyes to savor the sensation of cold water soothing my parched throat. I even splash some onto my face and hair, running my fingers through the tangled mess.

The collection of items and materials remains where I deposited them as I approach Izzy. She is seated on the ground, her back to everyone, with Noodle's head resting on her lap. She continues to stroke him gently. I sit down directly behind her and embrace her, even though she doesn't turn around or acknowledge my arrival.

"How is he?" I inquire.

"It causes him pain," she replies succinctly. "I must continue to help him through our connection."

"And does it hurt you as well?"

"It does, but I have chosen to bear some of his suffering." She glances around. "At least you are not like Soph, attempting to dissuade me."

"Do you seek a direct answer, or would you prefer to delve into my emotions?"

"I have no desire to scrutinize anyone's feelings at this moment." She turns away once more.

"I comprehend." I maintain my embrace while contemplating her words. "You are correct; I would not attempt to stop you. Just as I did not stop Biscuit, and just as I would not have stopped Aaron."

Her body stiffens upon hearing those names. I release her and gently tousle her hair. "Everything will be alright."

"How can you be so sure?" Izzy asks softly, her head bowed.

"Because I am an optimist at heart."

I remain standing there, enveloped in an awkward silence, as she offers no response. After a brief pause, I lightly nudge her with the toe of my shoe. "Come on, you've always appreciated my terrible jokes."

"Go away. You repeat them so often, they're not even amusing anymore."

"I believe they are. Show me your face, Izzy."

"Leave me alone!" she exclaims, but I detect a shift in her tone.

Nevertheless, I comply with her request. I retrieve an item from my pocket and read its description.

Aurelia Aegis-Gem (Low Pristine) -

I halt as I arrive before Dennis. He looks at me, a radiant smile gracing his features, the sole member of our group currently displaying such an expression. I present him with the gem and observe as he reads its details. His emotions surface as he grasps its purpose, and without seeking permission, he swiftly presses it against the center of his forehead. When he withdraws his hand, the gem adheres to his skin, emitting a blue hue reminiscent of his eyes, shaped like a four-sided star.

"Did they not have other colors available?" he asks with a grin once he finishes. I don't need to be Izzy to understand his attempt at levity. "They had simply run out of the pink ones," I reply. "Well, perhaps next time." Then, in a softer tone, devoid of the smile, he adds, "Thank you."

POV Earth

Small Talk Only - Live Podcast

10 million concurrent viewers

The podcast commences as it invariably does. There is no introductory music, no chimes, and no animation. The darkened screen simply transitions to reveal a young woman seated in an armchair, positioned at the center of what appears to be a typical living room. A framed photograph of an adorable dog adorns one of the walls, and beside her, on a table, rest a microphone and a bottle of water. Her guest has yet to make an appearance, as the camera remains focused solely on her portion of the set.

Rafael lets out a light chuckle, his expression conveying both innocence and charm. "While he prefers his identity remain somewhat... private, he understands it's impossible now with so much footage available. His name is Christoph. Many of you have likely seen him featured in various videos. And yes, those towers belong to him."

"Are you telling me, and everyone watching, that everything we've witnessed people performing was real? Please remember your response is essentially coming from the highest office right now." She pauses, a slight laugh escaping her, "Although, you might just be Canadian."

He waits patiently for her to conclude, his demeanor unfaltering, and offers another smile. "I might be a big, intimidating Canadian, but I'll be making similar appearances globally. Regarding your question, I can indeed confirm it. Furthermore, I can verify that much of what you've seen was merely the beginning. Individuals will achieve even greater power."

"That... is quite a bit to process for a Tuesday," Faye remarks, her tone measured, yet her eyes sparkle with keen interest, momentarily drifting towards the spider.

"I understand. It's one thing to witness these events on a screen, and quite another to have them unfold in your own neighborhood. Fortunately, we have some time, allowing people the chance to gradually adapt. Following today's announcement, more details will be released concerning 'returnees' – those among us who awakened before the rest of the world. These individuals will also become more visible in public."

"'Some time'... that sounds somewhat ominous, Rafael."

"I won't deceive you by claiming everything is perfectly fine. The world is undergoing transformations, and these changes bring inherent dangers."

"Are you referring to an invasion? I seem to recall some online discussions using the term, 'The Pairing'?"

"Precisely. That."

Faye leans back in her seat, crossing her legs with a grin. "You'd rather I didn't probe further into that, wouldn't you?"

"I would appreciate it if you refrained."

"Ha! With such a disarming smile, how could I possibly spoil the mood by being too inquisitive?" Faye laughs, her focus already shifting. "How have you been spending your days recently, Rafael? Have you been enjoying the weather?"

"Would you believe me if I told you I've been dedicating a significant amount of my time to looking after a cat lately?"

"You know what? I actually would believe you." Faye laughs again, her emerald eyes alight with renewed curiosity. "May I ask something a bit more serious?"

"Please do."

"The public is fearful of individuals like yourself. They worry about you losing control, or worse, deciding that 'ordinary' people are no longer relevant. Could you offer some reassurance to those who are currently terrified of their neighbors?"