All-Class Anti-Mage - Chapter 38 - The Banquet

As for Roland, she returned Piglet in a huff that very same night after taking him home. Yang Zhen couldn’t help but want to laugh at her angry expression, but he held it in. Piglet really was something; he didn’t even give a beautiful girl any face. In the end, Roland’s furious remark made him burst out laughing.

“For you, I can maintain my figure, but I still need to eat!”

Yang Zhen gently stroked Piglet, who was engaging in his unique cultivation snuggled against his left chest. He looked at the composite scroll in his hand, his brow gradually furrowing. Although using the all-element simulation theory had indeed resolved the elemental repulsion issue, a new problem arose. The magic cast from the scroll was of the same elemental system, which completely failed to meet Yang Zhen’s requirement for dual-element magic.

“Am I asking too much? Is it impossible for different elements to coexist on one scroll due to their repulsion?” Yang Zhen muttered to himself, shaking his head. “Surely there’s a way; it’s just that I don’t know it yet.”

Even if it was a failure, this pseudo-composite scroll in Yang Zhen’s hand was something that had never appeared on the Firmament Continent. No one had ever managed to store two same-element magics within one scroll; if this method of creation were to spread, it would definitely cause another uproar on the continent.

“Let’s name this scroll ‘Composite Generation One’!” Having worked tirelessly for several days, Yang Zhen couldn’t let the results go to waste. He had confidence that someday he would develop a true dual-element composite scroll!

“What new problem have you solved this time?” Roland walked into the Mage Tower with a smile. Seeing the young man moving around, she knew he must have made a new breakthrough; otherwise, he wouldn’t be able to stand up at all.

Yang Zhen gently took her hands and shared the basic theory behind Composite Generation One. The pride in the girl’s eyes as she looked into Yang Zhen’s was evident; the “Composite Generation” scroll would undoubtedly bolster the Bidel Mage Guild’s position on the Firmament Continent.

“I want to ask your opinion on something,” Roland said, leaning toward him, both of them snuggling on a cushion.

“What is it?” This was the first time Yang Zhen had seen her so serious.

“I don’t want to be an anti-mage anymore; I want to be a mage,” Roland said softly. This had been a long-considered question for her. Before Yang Zhen arrived, with her ancient elf bloodline’s ability to sense the nine elements, she surely could have become a powerful anti-mage.

But now, Yang Zhen already possessed that incredible ability. The advanced magic principles he had researched were almost unusable because of his identity as an anti-mage.

Roland was different; she hadn’t undergone the psychic transformation ritual required for anti-magic sword cultivation. Even outside the Mage Tower, she still had elemental perception. Yang Zhen’s all-element simulation theory could definitely help her become the second nine-element mage saint on the Firmament Continent!

“Whatever you decide, I will fully support you. I respect your choice,” Yang Zhen said, reaching out to touch the girl’s pointed earring. He understood Roland’s feelings perfectly. Nobody wants their hard-earned achievements to go unrecognized, and Yang Zhen was no exception.

“Yeah! I’ve made up my mind. It’s not too late for me to change to magic cultivation, and I already have the strength of a fourth-tier sword master. I can truly dual cultivate magic and martial arts!” Roland said with excitement, nodding enthusiastically.

With third-level psychic energy, she could directly become a third-tier magus. The reason ordinary people couldn’t dual cultivate magic and martial arts was that they lacked the energy to do so. Roland was different; as long as she focused on sword cultivation, with Yang Zhen’s comprehensive guidance on magic principles, mastering both classes to a top level wouldn’t be a dream.

“Dual cultivation of magic and martial arts?” Yang Zhen suddenly thought of the silver blade, which was a weapon containing a hidden magic array. If he could find the other half to complete the silver blade, it would undoubtedly be the most suitable weapon for Roland! This way, she wouldn’t need to carry both a sword and a magic staff.

“By the way, I almost forgot about this in all the excitement,” Roland said, pulling out an invitation made of gold fabric and handing it to Yang Zhen. “This is the invitation to a banquet hosted by City Lord Agaku. It’s to celebrate the opening of the New Scroll Era in the Theory of Rune Consciousness.”

“An invitation for me?” Yang Zhen opened the invitation and saw his name printed on it.

“Yeah, Carl is invited too. Your Eminence the Cardinal even personally requested to know whether you received an invitation,” Roland said, her brow furrowing with concern. She felt that being called out by Carl wasn’t necessarily good news, but she couldn’t discern any malice from the Cardinal. “Maybe we shouldn’t go.”

Yang Zhen pondered silently, realizing it must be the attention they’d drawn at the auction that led to this invitation. As a member of the Bidel Mage Guild, if he received an invitation but didn’t show up at the banquet, it would surely raise more eyebrows. That was secondary, though; after the sword challenge at the Sword Cultivators Guild tomorrow, he wouldn’t be able to keep a low profile for long. More importantly, the guild’s standing was being solidified, and Yang Zhen wanted to avoid leaving an impression of arrogance or disdain, which wouldn’t benefit the guild’s development.

“Let’s go. My research and cultivation have hit a bottleneck, and it might be good to clear my mind. Who knows, I might even find an opportunity for a breakthrough,” Yang Zhen reassured as he gently patted Roland’s hand. The girl managed a weak smile, feeling uneasy; she had a sense that something bad might happen at this banquet, but she couldn’t let such an absurd premonition stop the young man.

This banquet had nothing to do with Steve; it was after Agaku reported the events in Bidel City to the empire that His Majesty the Emperor personally issued a decree. The Mage Guild not only couldn’t act aggressively anymore but also needed to seize this opportunity to mend relationships.

Originally, the banquet had no connection to the Sword Cultivators Guild, but when Steve came to the door in person, Agaku couldn’t refuse him without losing face. Thus, the City Lord watched as Steve happily left with three invitations, completely unaware of the implications.

Undoubtedly, the liveliest place tonight would be the Lord’s Mansion. Agaku invited not only the key figures from the Mage Guild but also the red-robed bishop from the church, as well as several prominent individuals who attended the recent auction. As for the local bumpkin nobles, they had no right to attend this banquet.

The higher the status and power one held, the more they understood the virtue of humility. Consequently, the carriages arriving at the Lord’s Mansion appeared quite ordinary, but every person stepping out of them would cause a ripple of excitement in the area.

In stark contrast to everyone else, Yang Zhen and Roland were incredibly low-key; they chose to walk to the Lord’s Mansion. For a couple in love, holding hands while strolling was far more warm and romantic than riding in a carriage. They enjoyed the process, not the destination. Moreover, standing at the entrance to welcome guests were servants from the Lord’s Mansion, dressed far more extravagantly than the two of them.

When the two gold fabric invitations were placed in the servant’s hands, the formerly scornful expression on the doorman’s face instantly transformed into an obnoxious smile of deference. Ignoring his apologies, Yang Zhen and Roland walked in hand in hand. Compared to the opulence of the banquet tonight, their simple outfits seemed almost pitiful.

However, the guests at the banquet had more discerning eyes than the doorman. One by one, they approached the couple warmly to converse, as it was unlikely anyone in attendance didn’t recognize them. In particular, everyone would later learn that the concept of “intellectual property” was proposed by this beautiful yet plainly dressed girl.

As for Yang Zhen, was he someone who could confront the red-robed bishop without being noteworthy? Strangely enough, the bishop had actually retreated. Everything indicated that the young man was certainly someone of interest to His Holiness the Pope. A few attendees began to realize that the main focus of tonight’s gathering was the Bidel Mage Guild, and more specifically, this young couple right in front of them.

With the uplifting and passionate music playing, Yang Zhen and Roland gazed into each other’s eyes, completely engrossed in one another. The perceptive dignitaries slowly dispersed, leaving this tender moment to the couple deeply in love.

“Since we’re here to relax, let me teach you how to dance,” Roland said, glancing at the dance floor where the people’s movements looked to her no different from a morning exercise routine.

“Sure!” Yang Zhen replied with a smile and nodded.

Holding Yang Zhen’s hand, Roland stepped onto the dance floor. As they moved slowly, she explained what the young man should pay attention to and how to proceed next. People secretly laughed at their stiff movements and slow, awkward rhythm, believing that even a seven or eight-year-old child could dance better than the two of them.

Yang Zhen had a strong ability to adapt to new things, and he memorized every detail Roland advised. Gradually, their rhythm sped up, and Roland stopped explaining, relying entirely on their understanding of each other from that point onward.

Every movement felt as if it had been rehearsed countless times; each glance held deep trust. When their rhythm aligned with the music, their graceful dance left everyone gasping in admiration-“So beautiful!”

Roland, dressed in light blue, twirled gracefully, her lean calves moving rhythmically. Yang Zhen held her small hand, perfectly showcasing a man’s strength through every alternating dance move. This wasn’t just dancing; it was a visual feast!

Everyone instinctively formed a circle around them, enjoying the spectacular display the couple provided. Even before the banquet officially began, Yang Zhen and Roland had already brought the atmosphere to a climax! Some couldn’t help but mimic their movements, captivated by the couple in the dance floor, leaving even Karl, the red-robed bishop, unaware of their arrival.

Hadrei watched with envy; even though he deeply disliked Yang Zhen, he had to admit that the dancing couple looked perfect together. He also realized that he had no chance of winning her affection-this elf-like girl already had someone special.

Karl moved through the crowd without causing a stir, squinting as he observed the enthralled couple lost in their dance. Agaku followed closely behind him; both understood that tonight’s banquet was for a specific purpose. As long as Yang Zhen and Roland happily engaged, their objectives would be fulfilled-nothing more.

As the final note played out, Yang Zhen and Roland concluded their dance. Captivated by the girl’s rosy lips, Yang Zhen couldn’t help but lean in for a gentle kiss. The spontaneous applause erupted, not only celebrating their dance but also blessing their love!

“This dance is fun! Does it have a name? Where did you learn it?” Yang Zhen asked softly. To him, the girl was like a treasure trove, always bringing unexpected surprises. This dance could also set trends and become an essential social skill among the upper class.

Roland’s cheeks flushed as she linked her arm with Yang Zhen’s and led him away from the dance floor, softly uttering, “Rumba.”

As everyone began to disperse, still savoring the melodious dance, they realized that the red-robed bishop had arrived. Suddenly, a swarm of people flocked around him like flies chasing after anything enticing. Karl appeared amiable as he exchanged pleasantries with everyone, but inside, he was growing impatient.

After a few casual exchanges, Karl made his way toward Yang Zhen. Following his previous failure with the ninth-tier reaper as a test, the red-robed bishop wanted to personally assess Yang Zhen this time. The internal power struggles within the church had never ceased, nor had they been brought to light, and Karl had no doubt Curis would not dare to send anyone after him.

As an eleventh-tier fire mage saint, Karl was backed by many ninth-tier followers under the radar, even Pascal would avoid crossing him. The immense pressure from the vast level difference was something not everyone could withstand. Even if Yang Zhen was a freak, he wouldn’t be able to handle the disparity between the fourth and eleventh tiers!

With the advantages of strength and status on his side, Karl always held the upper hand. He smiled at the young man before him, and before he even spoke, an overwhelming wave of psychic oppression surged toward Yang Zhen. Even if Yang Zhen had a saint-tier power backing him, Karl was unafraid, for he himself was a saint-tier power!

Though Yang Zhen was cautious, he still couldn’t escape the psychic pressure. This was a unique attack method of the mage saint, capable of manipulating the lives and deaths of nearly all lower-level opponents, but it also took a significant toll on one’s psychic energy, akin to consecutively casting two eleventh-level forbidden incantations.

The forceful psychic oppression directly invaded the young man’s mind, and Yang Zhen felt a tremendous explosion in his brain, causing him to temporarily lose consciousness. Karl’s face paled as he smirked internally; how could there be any saint-tier power? If such a force existed, how could he succeed with such actions?

Just as Yang Zhen was losing control and about to fall, Roland rushed to support him. The clever girl quickly realized from the mocking glint in Karl’s eyes that this must be his doing. Roland could hardly fathom that Karl would personally target Yang Zhen with the power of a saint!

Just as Karl was about to withdraw his psychic oppression, the silver sphere in Yang Zhen’s mind, surrounded by four golden halos, suddenly reacted. A burst of white light exploded from the silver sphere, and the four golden halos shone brightly!

Karl felt a sharp counterattack against his extending psychic energy, nearly rendering him unconscious from the powerful feedback! He collapsed to the ground, and Hadrei quickly rushed to support his grandfather. He was already confused about why Yang Zhen had fainted, and now his grandfather had also collapsed and was bleeding!

Roland was equally astonished by the sudden turn of events, but she ignored Karl and anxiously focused on Yang Zhen, who was beginning to rouse from his unconsciousness. Tears of worry streamed down her face as she whispered, “Please don’t be hurt. We should get out of this place!”

“I’m fine; some people are worse off than I am,” Yang Zhen replied coolly as he brushed his hair aside and glared at Karl. He understood that Karl’s earlier psychic oppression was merely a test. Even without the silver sphere’s counterattack, he would have only felt slightly faint, and nothing serious would have happened. But things were different for Karl.

Golden bloodline! He actually had a golden bloodline! The red-robed bishop stared at Yang Zhen in horror, his finger trembling as he pointed at the young man’s right hand. His lips quivered, but he couldn’t utter a word; inside, he was a tumult of panic. How foolish of me to use psychic oppression on someone with a golden bloodline!

It was now clear that there was a saint-tier power behind Yang Zhen. Moreover, due to the nature of the golden bloodline, it was certain he had more than one saint-tier power backing him! Sean was not his real name, and as they had said, he was part of a team. But this team was not made up of the useless members of the Bidel Mage Guild; it was a team of saint-tier powers!

Karl’s heart raced with terror. He was relieved that he had only used psychic oppression because the saint-tier power behind the young man had not intervened. If he had unleashed an advanced spell targeting Yang Zhen… A chill ran down his spine; if Sean’s team included the shadow king, no amount of lives would save him!

No one knew what the red-robed bishop had been thinking during that moment, and Yang Zhen remained confused, unaware that a single instance of psychic oppression had led Karl to guess that countless teachers were behind him. As for Karl’s thoughts about the golden bloodline, even if he had voiced them, Yang Zhen would not have understood their significance.

If it weren’t for Karl having read the secret tome written by Pope Charles, he wouldn’t have known what a golden bloodline was. In Charles’ descriptions, it was the most mysterious bloodline in the Eastern Continent, possessing an ability that even deities envied-the capability to receive the “ultimate inheritance” an infinite number of times!

The ultimate inheritance was a unique ability of saint-tier powers. It allowed a saint-tier power to impart their lifelong cultivation principles to someone else at the cost of never being able to break through themselves. Ordinary people could only receive it once, and even then, there was a risk of losing the knowledge. However, with a golden bloodline, that risk was eliminated. After ten bloodline awakenings, the individual could completely absorb these cultivation principles!

Thus, the golden bloodline was terrifying. After ten bloodline awakenings, the physical quality was unrivaled, even by the Dragons, and the naturally powerful psychic perception made them the perfect candidates for training as anti-mages. What was even more frightening was that behind the golden bloodline stood countless saint-tier powers, each willing to pay the price of never being able to break through in exchange for the ultimate inheritance!

Saint-tier powers were inherently selfish; at least, Karl was, believing that after just two more breakthroughs, he could reach the legendary thirteenth-tier divine level! Not even for his cherished grandson Hadrei would he grant the ultimate inheritance!

So, had Yang Zhen obtained this? Karl secretly speculated. According to intelligence gathered from spies, he had! And not just from one individual. In this situation, Karl didn’t dare to entertain any thoughts of harming Yang Zhen; instead, he focused on how to befriend him while concealing the secret of the golden bloodline from everyone, even from Pope Charles himself!

Little did Karl know that Yang Zhen’s group of teachers had been placed under house arrest, and he didn’t even know where they were being held. But as he looked down, he met Yang Zhen’s cold gaze. In front of everyone, the red-robed bishop calmly said, “Our past misunderstandings were unfortunate; please don’t take offense.”

What?! The bishop was apologizing again! Everyone stared in shock at this scene, their eyes on Yang Zhen reflecting a strange fear. It didn’t occur to them that if it weren’t for their presence making the bishop mindful of his image, Karl might even have bowed to apologize.

Everyone has things they fear, and Karl feared the shadow king standing behind Yang Zhen. Nearly all mage saints feared assassins training to reach saint-tier, which was why Elven City had managed to remain safe until now. The church could not eliminate the Elven City’s Assassin Guild under the pretext of eradicating heresy because both organizations shared the same faith in the Elemental God and the War God.

Yang Zhen was slightly taken aback. He could sense that this time Karl’s apology was sincere, but he didn’t know what other tricks Karl was playing. Since the other party had offered a way out, Yang Zhen was not the type to be unreasonable and stubborn for no good reason.

“Your Eminence, could you be exaggerating? Did we have a misunderstanding? I wasn’t aware of any,” Yang Zhen spread his hands, giving Karl enough face. Roland silently sighed; it turned out the young man was not the type to be overly stubborn and reckless, a trait that led to quick demise in the Firmament Continent.

“Haha, yes, what misunderstanding could there be between us?” Karl laughed heartily. Roland couldn’t help but think: You old fox, how about wiping the blood from the corner of your mouth before saying that!

Having sustained injuries, Karl endured a bit of pleasantry with Yang Zhen before making an excuse to withdraw and rest. Agaku immediately offered to escort the bishop, but Karl graciously declined. It was truly unfortunate that the City Lord lacked any insight; how could he not see that the bishop was embarrassed and wounded?

After Karl left, the crowd around Yang Zhen and Roland only grew larger, with everyone trying their best to engage Yang Zhen in conversation. Despite their reluctance, Yang Zhen handled them all one by one. Most of these big shots were presidents of Mage Guilds from various regions, and Yang Zhen knew there would come a day when he would need their assistance.

As for Roland, she couldn’t care less; pulling Yang Zhen’s arm with a slightly pouty tone, she said, “Let’s go home. I’m feeling a bit tired.” Who knew what else might happen if they stayed? Roland definitely didn’t want Yang Zhen to get hurt again.

“Yes, yes, after such an amazing performance, Miss Roland must be exhausted.”

“Mr. Yang Zhen, you should head back to rest. Your health is important.”

A group of old men immediately chimed in, supporting Roland’s suggestion. Even a fool could see how much the young man cared for the girl; this flattery hit the mark perfectly.

“Alright then, let’s meet again when we have the chance.” Yang Zhen exchanged polite remarks with them as he took the girl’s hand and headed for the door.

Suddenly, Agaku stepped in front of them, his expression respectful as he said, “Please wait a moment, Miss Roland. Someone wants to meet you; he will be here shortly.”

“Who?” Roland replied, her face showing displeasure.

“You’ll find out when he arrives.” Agaku maintained an air of mystery, thinking to himself that the arrival of this person might cause quite a stir.

“Is it a man or a woman? Surely you can tell me that,” Roland pressed.

“Well… it’s a man,” Agaku admitted.

“Not interested!”

With that, Roland took Yang Zhen’s hand and stormed out without looking back. She silently cursed Agaku; how could he not see how much she loved Yang Zhen? A woman was forgivable, but trying to play matchmaker when the situation was so clear was simply foolish!

“Miss Roland, you can’t leave! If you do, my head is on the line… ah!” Agaku panicked. Yet, he didn’t dare make physical contact because she was a woman. As Roland pushed forward, he stepped back and ended up tripping over the threshold.

Falling flat in front of everyone, Agaku lost all face. Yet, he showed no awareness of his position as City Lord, kneeling before Yang Zhen and Roland and stubbornly refusing to get back up. Clearly, the man who wanted to see Roland was quite formidable.

“Let’s wait awhile, and see who this man is,” Yang Zhen said, his annoyance rising. He was curious to find out what kind of man would dare to have designs on Roland. Hearing this, Roland felt a rush of sweetness; as long as the young man was jealous, it proved that she still held a significant place in Yang Zhen’s heart.