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墨書 Inktalez
“Fang Lin Kong, don’t wear that miserable expression. This isn’t the Two-Dimensional Space Maze; this is a Battle Barrier!”
With Green Brow's reminder, Fang Lin Kong took a serious look around and realized that the strange sensation of time and space intertwining was gone. He extended his mental energy and quickly made contact with the boundary.
At this point, Fang Lin Kong had calmed down significantly after the initial excitement. After pondering for a moment, he couldn’t help but say in confusion, “I just wanted to ask how to get to Disneyland. Why make such a big fuss? If the owner here doesn’t welcome me, I won’t go in.”
Green Brow chuckled lightly and replied, “This Floro the Shopkeeper was once a well-known great demon in his early years. Somehow, he got involved with the Demon Hunting Team and settled in this famous artistic city of humans, opening this Antique Shop. His eccentric temper is quite famous in the Dark World. Now you want to say it was just a misunderstanding and leave? That might be a bit too late!”
Just as Fang Lin Kong was about to ask for more details, heavy footsteps echoed in the distance, drawing his attention forward.
A row of massive steel figures appeared before them, marching in perfect unison.
“Oh my God, are those car people or Decepticons? This is too much! Green Brow, what are you doing?”
The appearance of these enemies completely shattered Fang Lin Kong’s composure. The arrival of Azure Sky Ancestor had already overturned his perception that all practitioners were old relics, but now the foes confronting him made him doubt his own eyes once again.
Although these large metal beings emitted waves of magical energy, indicating they were not purely technological creations, any young person seeing Mechanical Demon Soldiers transformed from various vehicles would inevitably have wild imaginations.
The American toy promotional animated series Transformers had taken the world by storm back in the day. Most of its transforming robots were based on real-life technological products; thus, massive trucks like Optimus Prime could often be seen racing down American highways.
The front row of Mechanical Demon Soldiers was indeed transformed from such trucks. Following Optimus Prime’s legion were a line of Volkswagen Beetles transformed into Giant Wasps. It seemed that transforming planes was quite expensive, as Fang Lin Kong didn’t see any of his favorite jet transformations like Red Spider among the Mechanical Demon Soldiers. However, he did spot a Mechanical Demon Soldier transformed from a Rolls Royce that continuously morphed from a handgun into a small robot resembling Megatron.
After recovering from his shock, Fang Lin Kong remembered Green Brow beside him but was even more astonished to see that she had somehow acquired a Panda Digital Camera and was enthusiastically snapping photos.
Hearing Fang Lin Kong’s question, Green Brow immediately tossed the digital camera to him and struck several alluring poses, signaling him to take some pictures with the Mechanical Demon Soldiers as the backdrop.
“Green Brow, it’s such a shame you’re not doing promotional work for some game with that stunning figure!”
Fang Lin Kong snapped several photos of Green Brow and casually complimented her. To his surprise, she playfully accepted the camera back from him, flicking her silver hair and said, “How do you know I haven’t done such promotional work? Let me tell you about our Yinshan Group; we recently developed a new realistic game where I’m the advertising model!”
Fang Lin Kong was left speechless as he watched Green Brow change the memory card in the camera and aim it at him again. He hurriedly waved his hands and said, “I’m not interested in keeping those kinds of photos!”
Green Brow extended two slender fingers, forming a victory sign. "I've switched to video recording mode, so soon you'll see your fighting prowess. Don't think these mechanical marvels are just for show. Flora Dam is not only a soil-based Grandmaster level mage but also a renowned electrical engineer. The combat power of these machines is definitely on par with their animated counterparts!"
Fang Lin Kong swallowed the words he wanted to say as waves of fiery energy surged around him. He couldn't fathom what kind of energy Flora Dam was using to power these Mechanical Demon Soldiers. Besides the immense magical power, they were also equipped with various modern weaponry that was quite formidable.
With a light step, Fang Lin Kong quickly changed direction. Faced with such fierce attacks, he knew he had to avoid them at all costs. The five-colored mist surrounding Green Brow, while appearing light and airy, had an extraordinary defensive capability. As Fang Lin Kong dodged, he exposed her momentarily. However, Green Brow showed no intention of retreating; she stood firm behind her protective mist, holding her digital camera like a professional reporter, continuously flashing the shutter.
At that moment, Fang Lin Kong heightened his senses to an unprecedented level. He calculated every attack from the Mechanical Demon Soldiers, tracking their firepower trajectories and impacts with clarity. With near-supersonic agility, he effortlessly evaded all attacks in what seemed like a perilous battle.
This fighting style was learned from Ancient God Chaos.
"With minimal effort, achieve the most perfect results! This is the essence of combat! Let me test my current level of training!"
Fang Lin Kong flicked his fingers, and dozens of Psychic Bullets from the Golden System accurately struck a row of energy conduits belonging to the nearby Optimus Prime. With their energy cut off, these steel giants immediately ceased movement. Just as Fang Lin Kong prepared to replicate this success against the remaining Mechanical Demon Soldiers, a strange sound wave erupted, and several units of Engineering Tigers began to transform again. Seven construction vehicles—mixers, excavators, bulldozers—combined into an even larger entity: Hercules.
Moreover, Fang Lin Kong watched in disbelief as other groups of Mechanical Dinosaurs began to combine as well. In that instant, he was certain that the one called Flora Dam, the Antique Shop Boss, possessed an extraordinary sense of humor.
"Thank goodness there are no major cities like Mighty Handsome, Ironclad Dragon, or Cosmic Emperor! Otherwise, this world... would definitely not be Earth but rather Seiboten!"
The combined Mechanical Demon Soldiers were enveloped in a layer of magical shields. Even as Fang Lin Kong fired successive Psychic Bullets, they were blocked by this shield. When he concentrated his fire on one spot to break through the shield, the newly combined soldiers did not stop moving immediately due to their multiple power sources. Within seconds, their self-repair functions would reconnect any damaged circuits, making them formidable once more.
"Damn it! How could God allow this to happen?"
Ignoring Fang Lin Kong's lamentations! The plump Flora Dam, the Antique Shop Boss, was gleefully watching as Fang Lin Kong darted around, pursued by his army of Mechanical Demon Soldiers. He appeared utterly delighted.
In this world, there are many types of people, one of which is known as a collector. They love to gather everything they can find: stamps, snuff bottles, matchboxes, shoes, pipes, shells, and even soil from various places around the globe...
Flora Dam's hobbies had become vast and eclectic due to his wealth.
For instance, in homage to a bygone era when certain animations were all the rage, he invested heavily in acquiring numerous second-hand cars and various machinery while delving into alchemical magic's puppet-making techniques to create this army of Transformers.
However, Flora Dam did not intend to use these creations for defending his shop; he merely wanted to indulge his childhood fantasies. The appearance of Fang Lin Kong provided him with an opportunity to showcase his collection of Mechanical Demon Soldiers. He didn't expect them to defeat Fang Lin Kong. If anything happened that damaged his treasures due to excessive force from him, it might provoke Flora Dam into retaliating with even more powerful means against this intruder. Yet, Fang Lin Kong demonstrated remarkable tact and efficiency in his actions without causing any unnecessary harm.
As one grows older, it becomes increasingly difficult to appreciate simple joys. Though he collected and created these Mechanical Demon Soldiers, there was no one with whom he could share them. This often left the plump Antique Shop Boss feeling somewhat melancholic.
In that fleeting moment, Flora Dam suddenly felt an inexplicable fondness for the Eastern youth who had clumsily breached his dimensional barrier and entered the battle space.
Fang Lin Kong, of course, was unaware that Flora Dam was using a magical device to probe into his thoughts. After several failed attacks, his impatience began to take over. Unable to maintain absolute calm, Fang Lin Kong made a critical miscalculation, and a tongue of flame struck him in the back.
Hit by the attack, Fang Lin Kong stumbled, and countless flames immediately engulfed the area where he stood. Flora Dam sensed something was amiss and quickly ordered the Mechanical Demon Soldiers to cease their pursuit. Green Brow was startled and was about to intervene but realized it was too late.
As the smoke gradually cleared, Fang Lin Kong's figure emerged. He had his hands raised above his head, knees slightly bent, with an expression as calm as water. Three layers of protective shields surrounded him, leaving him unscathed. The outermost layer was a pale blue light screen, followed by a colorless transparent barrier, and the innermost layer was the most magnificent, adorned with countless layers of colorful halos that seemed endless at first glance. This was Fang Lin Kong's own defensive shield formed by the Great Freedom Heaven Realm Seven Treasures Banner, combined with the Thirty-Three Heavens Sealing Technique's splendid curtain.
Although the previous bombardment had been fierce, it hadn't even shaken the outermost blue light screen of Fang Lin Kong's defense. Naturally, there was no need to mention the other two layers.
Flora Dam let out a sigh of relief; he had no intention of killing. Seeing Fang Lin Kong unharmed filled him with astonishment at the youth's formidable strength while also making him reflect on whether he was getting a bit old.
"This young man, I warmly welcome you to my Antique Shop! Fortunately, you were not harmed in that unfortunate incident! I would like to offer you a gift as compensation. Would you be able to forget the unpleasantness from earlier?"
His booming voice echoed throughout the battle space thanks to a large sound system. Before Fang Lin Kong could respond, Green Brow interjected, "In that case, we sincerely apologize for our abrupt intrusion. I came here seeking an original work by the 15th-century necromancer Juan Di Fa. Might you be willing to part with it?"
Flora Dam paused briefly before noticing that Fang Lin Kong did not express any objections. He then cheerfully replied, "Although I am quite reluctant to part with this book, since you need it, I cannot go back on my word. Please follow this vehicle and come closer to me!"
As soon as Flora Dam finished speaking, a beautiful red Mechanical Demon Soldier transformed into an elegant sports car. Fang Lin Kong shrugged and climbed in alongside Green Brow.
When they entered a vast display room, they were greeted by the amiable Flora Dam and a mysterious young guest beside him. Green Brow smiled and waved at both of them, but Fang Lin Kong gasped in surprise.
The aura emanating from this young guest felt incredibly familiar to Fang Lin Kong. When the guest lifted his head and smiled, it was none other than Dan Xiazi.
Fang Lin Kong hurriedly bowed and said loudly, "Fang Lin Kong pays respects to Master Uncle! I didn't expect Master Uncle to return! Is there anything you need me to do?"
Dan Xiazi's attire had a distinctly modern flair that made Fang Lin Kong fail to recognize him at first. After encountering Ancient God Chaos, although Dan Xiazi had sneaked away alone, Fang Lin Kong held no resentment. On one hand, he had gained much from staying behind; on the other hand, he never felt particularly close to this Master Uncle and could only blame himself for not reacting quickly enough when abandoned.
Seeing Fang Lin Kong so friendly, Dan Xiazi smiled slightly without revealing any particular reaction. With an air of nonchalance, he said, "I merely returned to take a look and wanted to visit your other Master Uncles as well. If you have no pressing matters, why not accompany me in visiting them?"
Fang Lin Kong thought to himself: "Visiting Azure Sky Ancestor is fine! But visiting Liexiezi is entirely unnecessary. As for the other Master Uncles—well, that would be even more troublesome; if anything goes wrong later on, it would be disastrous."
Thus he smiled faintly and replied playfully, "There's no need for me to intrude on your elders' meeting; it would be awkward if some ancient love story came up!"
Dan Xiazi was caught off guard by Fang Lin Kong's mention of a millennia-long love story, losing his composure and failing to maintain the demeanor of an extraordinary figure. He cleared his throat and changed the subject.
"The items collected by Flora Dam are quite remarkable. Take this Ten Thousand Methods Magic Jar, for instance. I have witnessed its power before; it even absorbed one of my Flying Swords. It's a pity that today it has become so damaged, losing all its potency."
At that moment, Flora Dam seized the opportunity to interject, "So you two are Master Uncle and disciple. Truly, a prestigious lineage produces exceptional talents. Just now, this young man broke through my two layers of magic formations with astonishing skill; he is truly impressive."
Green Brow stood nearby, her eyes darting around but remaining silent. Experienced as she was, she could tell that Dan Xiazi was not someone to be trifled with. Fang Lin Kong's origins were unclear, but it was no secret that his power was related to the Gouli Heaven's Tome. The sudden appearance of a Master Uncle today left Green Brow puzzled.
Fang Lin Kong chuckled and said to Flora Dam, "I noticed the Demon Hunter emblem here and wanted to ask for directions. I didn't expect to run into a Master Uncle. I have a friend waiting outside, so I won't impose any longer. Could you tell me how to get to Disneyland?"
Flora Dam was taken aback for a moment before bursting into laughter. He reached for the golden goblet offered by Dan Xiazi and said, "Earlier, this lady wanted the original Necromancy Spellbook by Juan Di Fa. Since I promised, I will present it immediately. However, I also mentioned that I would give you a gift to make up for my earlier oversight, so please don’t refuse!"
Hearing someone insist on giving him something, Fang Lin Kong had no reason to decline. He happily accepted and said, "In that case, I shall graciously accept Mr. Flora Dam's generous gift."
Flora Dam chuckled and replied, "However, I have a peculiar rule: when giving gifts, they cannot be taken without reason. You can choose anything from my collection, but you must explain its origin, name, and function; otherwise, it cannot be taken!"
"In other words," he continued, "you cannot take something if you don't know its background!"
Fang Lin Kong found this rule quite reasonable. According to modern theories, hoarding resources without understanding how to utilize them is a form of waste. Even if one acquired them through legitimate means with clear ownership rights, it still applied.
Green Brow chimed in immediately, "Mr. Flora Dam's requirement is not difficult for me at all. Master Juan Di Fa is the most outstanding necromancer in history. My cultivation in the Eastern Immortal Path also pertains to the study of souls; that's why I sought this Necromancy Spellbook to enhance my knowledge and strengthen my abilities."
Flora Dam grinned as he handed an ancient parchment scroll to Green Brow and said, "No need for further explanation; since you are already aware of this book's origin, it will not gather dust on your shelf!"
At that moment, Fang Lin Kong surveyed Flora Dam's collection with great admiration for the plump antique shop owner. Though Fang Lin Kong himself possessed considerable wealth and countless magical artifacts—such as the Liexie Twin Hooks and Four Treasures of the Demon Gate—his collection paled in comparison to Flora Dam's extensive array of items.
Flora Dam's collection included top-tier treasures and mysterious substances of immeasurable power. However, unlike Fang Lin Kong's artifacts which were intact and usable in battle, most of Flora Dam's treasures were damaged or broken and could only serve as decorative antiques.
Fang Lin Kong had never received systematic education on the origins of such magical artifacts. Although he could guess their functions based on his experience and intuition, he struggled to articulate their names or historical significance.
Seeing Fang Lin Kong’s bewildered expression only excited Flora Dam more. Discussing historical details with someone knowledgeable was far more enjoyable than explaining basic concepts to an apprentice; the plump Boss felt increasingly thrilled as he watched Fang Lin Kong hesitate to speak.
Eventually unable to contain himself any longer, Flora Dam remarked, "Although my collection consists mostly of damaged artifacts, their materials and spiritual energy often remain intact. If someone can use magic to restore them completely, their power would be immeasurable. Even if they can't be restored perfectly, repurposing them for other uses would still be far superior to what is mass-produced today! Mr. Fang Lin Kong, if these don't catch your eye, then you truly lack discernment!"
Flora Dam spoke with a hint of regret, making Fang Lin Kong feel increasingly awkward. Green Brow, taking advantage of Fang Lin Kong's situation, easily obtained the Necromancy Spellbook he desired. Feeling relaxed and happy at that moment, upon seeing Fang Lin Kong's expression, he felt compelled to help him out and said, "Flora Dam's collection is quite famous in the underground world. If you add up the value of these items, it might be enough to buy a medium-sized country. Fang Lin Kong, why not let Flora Dam introduce you to his prized treasures?"
Fang Lin Kong was at a loss for what to do and thought to himself, "I’m not interested in his gifts; why make such a fuss? Lin Yu might be getting anxious waiting for me. I should just hurry up and meet up with them!"
Before he could excuse himself, Flora Dam had already taken Green Brow's suggestion to heart and smiled as he said, "After my introduction, these items can no longer be considered gifts. Fang Lin Kong, where should we start?"
Fang Lin Kong thought to himself, "You can give them away if you want; I'm not interested. It's rare to see such a loquacious fat man!"
Just as he was about to refuse outright, he reconsidered and felt that it would be impolite to dismiss him so bluntly. He replied, "Mr. Flora Dam, your collection is indeed remarkable, but I don’t recognize any of these items. It seems I won’t be receiving any gifts today. As for the introduction, I would love to hear about it; however, I have friends waiting outside. Perhaps we should skip it for today!"
Hearing Fang Lin Kong mention his friends waiting outside multiple times, Flora Dam found it difficult to insist on keeping him there. He simply said, "My invitation stands forever. Whenever you have the chance to visit my shop, I will always welcome you to claim what you deserve."
Fang Lin Kong humbly acknowledged this and was about to leave when Dan Xiazi suddenly spoke up, "Earlier, Mr. Flora Dam showed me the Ten Thousand Methods Magic Jar. You mentioned it wasn't for sale; however, would you consider a trade instead?"
Flora Dam paused slightly; he knew the value of the Ten Thousand Methods Magic Jar well. However, this item was extremely expensive and had been completely damaged, losing its functionality. While it could potentially be repaired, doing so would likely be no easier than crafting a new one from scratch. It could be said that it was one of those items that were high in price but no one was willing to purchase. He had heard someone offer 170 million euros for it but suspected they were lying; ultimately, it wasn't that he didn't want to sell but rather that the other party had additional conditions he couldn't accept.
When Dan Xiazi suggested a trade instead of cash, Flora Dam hesitated. After all, this wasn't a straightforward cash transaction where values could easily be compared. If what the other party offered didn't match the value of the Ten Thousand Methods Magic Jar, they would need to make up the difference somehow. Conversely, if they offered something of greater value than the jar itself, he might have to provide additional gifts as well. The principle was sound; however, the challenge lay in how to fairly assess the value of whatever the other party presented in such a rushed manner—after all, an item's worth can vary greatly depending on who values it.
Upon hearing Dan Xiazi's words, Fang Lin Kong suddenly recalled something and turned to Flora Dam saying, "In that case, I would also like to propose a trade with you for an item."
(To be continued)
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