Capítulo 1285: Chapter 1285: Arcane Technique – [Demon Vision]
“What kind of demon is it? Is it powerful? What’s the backstory? Can we handle it?”
Previously, it was just speculation that Ston Osenfort was related to demons, but now it can be confirmed that Shard’s inspiration is as outstanding as ever.
“Detective, this magic potion is only used to detect demon power, it doesn’t have complex identification capabilities. Also, the badge might not have been placed by the demon, it could simply be that a powerful demon passed nearby.”
The doctor waved his hand, seriously examining the Level Three Combat Hero’s Badge:
“Tell me in detail about your recent experiences, if you can, describe all the specifics.”
Shard then detailed his relationship with Ston Osenfort, from initially discovering the ring at the river bottom, to playing cards at Earl Granger’s banquet, to visiting Osenfort Estate alone and meeting the strange maid and the veiled Haila Osenfort. Finally, before the burning warehouse, they shook hands to agree on three items and clues related to [Genesis: Earth]. He revealed nearly all the details he knew, including Old John’s opinion on the prize from a horse race, which he considers an evaluation of a relic from the Stonville Kingdom, and Tifa’s critique of the outdated maid outfit.
The doctor’s brow furrowed even more:
“Your judgment is correct, not having Annette recklessly help with divination was wise too. This is a typical demon act, Haila Osenfort said her husband hardly ever loses? I understand, Osenfort himself likely isn’t an evil spirit demon from the Third Era, but he probably made a contract with a demon.”
One of the common-sense rules for Circle Sorcerers is to never sign any form of contract with a demon, otherwise even the decorative patterns on the edge of the contract paper could trick a mortal’s soul. “Cherish your soul, stay away from demons” is what Miss Feliana said.
“What kind of demon could it be?”
Shard asked again, the doctor still shook his head:
“With just these clues, it’s impossible to guess the target. Moreover, from your description, the demon’s plans and schemes targeting the Osenfort family likely began with the family’s decline over a hundred years ago, otherwise it can’t explain the strangeness of the manor… This adversary is quite powerful.”
Shard added:
“Not only powerful but also very cautious. I’ve interacted with Osenfort so many times without noticing anything unusual, let alone knowing where the demon’s true form is.”
The two fell silent for a moment, Shard then asked:
“Doctor, do you have confidence in dealing with this kind of enemy?”
“To confirm the opponent’s identity, I can rely on knowledge to make targeted judgments.”
The doctor pointed to his head:
“Moreover, the advantage now is that the demon is very cautious, and so are you. The demon hiding in Randall Valley doesn’t know you’ve discovered him, and couldn’t possibly know about my existence. Speaking of which, Randall Valley is quite far from here, and I don’t really have a good way to get there directly.”
“It’s okay, I have a Keeper of Secrets Level Relic here, [Magician’s Escape Box].”
This relic was originally found by Granny Cassandra to allow Helen and Grace to appear at Saint Delan Square. The relic’s usage requires preferably a High Ring Sorcerer, and not more than once every six months. Though the doctor currently has only Six Rings, considering his strong physical body and soul, using this relic is fine. However, after using it, he’ll need to take the carriage back from Randall Valley himself.
He described the relic’s traits in detail, and the doctor agreed it could be used:
“But I can’t go there now. The demon you encountered hasn’t been sealed and is likely in a full-power state. If I appear in Randall Valley, the possibility of being directly discovered by the opponent is high. So, we must determine the opponent’s identity and plan the best course of action before making a move, ensuring a strike to kill.”
“So, I need to gather more information? Yes, handling such an enemy must be very cautious. Even if we can defeat him, if we prematurely alert the opponent and he leaves Randall Valley, tracking him would be very troublesome.”
Shard nodded; as for the demon, it’s impossible for him to not care since the information on [Genesis: Earth] must be verified for its truthfulness, and the doctor also needs new demons to increase power.
For Shard, who knows the apocalypse is coming, every bit of power is needed.
The doctor was still contemplating the next action:
“I have a feeling that, given your appearance in Randall Valley with the equipment of Demon Hunters from the Fourth Era and getting involved in this matter, the terrifying demon plot will likely start soon. Hence, use half a month to a month to determine exactly who the demon is, and ensure not to expose yourself during this time. This isn’t too difficult, I’m willing to bet that even Ston Osenfort is dissatisfied with the demon he signed the contract with. You mentioned he has sought help from the auction house and that the three items he agreed to find with you seem like some strange rituals to me…”
“Speaking of which, Ston Osenfort has a good relationship with William Anjou, and his subordinates even helped the prince discover an overseas silver mine.”
On this topic, the doctor chuckled and waved his hand:
“Common tricks of demons, I guarantee there’s a fifty percent chance of nothing, and a fifty percent chance that it’s Demon Silver forged from demon power.”
The so-called “Demon Silver” is a type of “Demon Metal,” a precious metal forged through bloodthirsty means, using sacrifices to cast from innocent souls. Using this metal instantly taints one with sin, causing the soul to fall and become a demon. It is a method only employed by extremely high-level demons, and “Demon Metal” is a forbidden trade item in the current Sixth Era, classified as the highest level of prohibition.
“It seems that unknown demon has already attempted to extend its hand towards the human royal family.”
The doctor concluded, appearing more worried than ever:
“Don’t be fooled by stories where demons can sweep across the entire world with a plot. In reality, in this Sixth Era, demons capable of infiltrating a country are already quite rare, as most were either sealed or still sleeping after the Third Era. Shard, we must act quickly. Even if I can’t ultimately devour the opponent, we must stop their plot.”
Consequently, Shard had one more task in Randall Valley, and it happened that the tasks he held, if not handled well, could lead to a great catastrophe.
“Doctor, what should I do? Although I hold the [Night Watchman] and [Demon Hunting Seal], you seem to be the real demon hunter.”
The doctor coughed awkwardly:
“Don’t call me that. Oh, you must be careful, under no circumstances should you possess these two items in front of Osenfort, at least not before the decisive battle. You must accomplish two things: one, find out the demon’s hiding place or know how to make it appear; two, confirm the demon’s identity, so we can make preparations and plans.”
He tossed the Combat Hero’s Badge to Shard:
“So, you’ll need to contact Osenfort again, preferably return to that peculiar manor. Aren’t you going to return the badge? Take this opportunity. You can slightly reveal your power to Osenfort; I think the opponent has already guessed the possibility that you’re a Circle Sorcerer, after all, you defeated him. Demons and mortals view Circle Sorcerers differently; possessing supernatural power only indicates to them whether hunting becomes troublesome.”
“Do you have any good detectors that would allow me to gather information on a single trip?”
Shard asked with anticipation, raising the cat:
“The size should not exceed this; I can hide it in my hat.”
“Meow~”
The cat meowed.
“If there were really such useful alchemical items, the issue of Evil Spirit Demons wouldn’t have stretched from the Third Era to the present.”
The doctor held out a finger to Shard:
“It’s best not to do anything unnecessary. Without confirming the opponent’s identity and power, anything extra may expose our intentions. Shard, don’t underestimate these ancient beings from the Third Era; they are quite dangerous.”
Then the doctor changed his tone:
“Of course, I can’t possibly just send you there to waste our time. How about this, I’ll teach you a special power that only demon hunters from the Third Era would know, which was modified by Witches of the Fifth Era into a learnable Arcane Technique. This is also something I acquired from demon knowledge, but unfortunately, I couldn’t learn it myself. But I must warn you, now that you have a demon hunter’s weapon and seal, if you learn the demon hunter’s power, it’ll deepen your entanglement with demons and increase the likelihood of encountering them.”
He looked seriously at Shard, who unexpectedly asked in return:
“Am I not deeply intertwined with demons now, and the likelihood of encountering demons isn’t high? Besides, the other matter I am dealing with in Randall Valley is much more terrifying than ancient demons. Resolving that demon is to prevent it from interfering with what I am doing.”
“Hard to imagine what you’re up to, just remember to stay safe.”
The doctor muttered, then asked:
“[Hunter][Hunt][Eyes][Sanctuary][Guardian][Peeping][Wisdom][Revenge], which of these Spirit Runes do you have? Any one of the Four Elements will do.”
“None, but I have the Enlightenment Spirit Rune [Water of Wisdom], yes, from that ancient fairy tale.”
This Spirit Rune corresponded to Shard’s fourth Maze Lock.
“It should work too.”
The doctor said while picking up the notebook on the table, writing down the information about the Arcane Technique and handing it to Shard:
“This is it, Arcane Technique – [Demon Vision]. This is an eye-related Arcane Technique; when you actively activate the Arcane Technique, if you encounter demon power, some related runes and illusions will appear in your vision. So you need to get as close to the opponent’s power as possible and keep the Arcane Technique on to gather more clues.”