[B1] Chapter 26: Circle Rank 3
<<<<
[Ring Power strengthened by 2 points.]
[Ring Power is at 18/20 points.]
[Ring Power strengthened by 2 points.]
[Your first ring has evolved to Rank 3.]
[You've reached Circle Rank 3.]
[You have received 3 free stat points.]
[Your Demonic Farm has advanced to Level 3.]
[You have unlocked an additional acre of land.]
>>>>
A smile graced his lips as he read the messages. This was a pleasant surprise; his ring, circle, and farm ranks had all advanced to level 3.
This wasn't just an upgrade in numbers. He could feel the surge in strength, the additional stat points that accompanied it, and could visibly see the expansion of his land.
The boundaries, which were once fixed, now moved, extending past the pond that both he and Lilith had set their eyes on, making it now a part of his territory. It was quite the sight, watching the fences, which previously ended just shy of the mesmerizing pond, now stretch further, bringing the pond within their confines.
As for the harvested potatoes, even though they vanished from sight after being plucked, Theo knew they were in safe keeping. From the 182 seeds planted, he reaped an impressive yield of 1,274 enchanted potatoes. The notifications left no room for doubt; each Shadowshade potato was stored safely within the spatial dimension of golden vault, waiting to be taken out when needed.
Theo's attention shifted as he noticed Lilith who was excitedly moving towards the pond. It was evident that even though she cherished the farm's darker environment, the allure of the pond's butterflies and its innate beauty seemed to have a unique pull on her heart.
Theo watched as Lilith's eyes glistened with mischief and delight. Her heels barely touched the ground, almost like a child exploring a new playground. She practically floated towards the shimmering waters, the dancing butterflies catching her eye.
As she drew nearer, Lilith's gaze was caught by a quaint bridge leading to a small island in the middle of the pond. The fine line between a pond and a lake was sometimes the presence of an island, and this particular body of water treaded that boundary beautifully.
Without hesitation, she made her way across, her footsteps resounding softly on the wooden planks. By the time Theo caught up, Lilith was already on the island, completely engrossed in the beauty around her.
Shaking his head, he trailed behind her, his own curiosity piqued. This new addition to the farm, this mysterious pond, caught his attention. He simply wanted to check it out. The entire scene felt like an oasis amid the eerie demonic farm. The serene waters, the butterflies, and the greenery landscape beckoned him closer.
As they both set foot on the island, surrounded by the pond, Theo could hear the gentle lapping of the water against its shores, see the fish darting about, and feel the subtle cool breeze that carried the sweet scent of the blossoms. The serenity of the place was making him momentarily forget the dark environment of the farm they were in.
Unable to resist the pond's charm, Lilith started to play with the water, scooping it with her hands and sending gentle splashes towards Theo.
As droplets landed on his face, different from the sun's warmth with their cool touch, he shot her a stern look.
"Ah, demoness! Trading blood for water now?" He retorted.
Lilith giggled, her eyes narrowing slightly in a playful way. "I could always take both if you're offering, Farmer boy," she suggested, scooping up another handful of water as if it were a threat.
Sighing in resignation, Theo remarked, "Maybe I preferred the vampire version of you. She at least pretended to have some manners and seemed to be more... cultured."
Her eyes darkened, and her voice lowered to a chilling whisper, "Didn't I warn you about calling me that? One more time, and maybe I'll give you a real taste of what a bite feels like. For a human, you have quite a bit of audacity." Her words held a hint of a scolding.
"Or perhaps it's just a side effect of being around a certain demoness for so long?" He replied with a calm tone.
As their playful banter vanished into the gentle rustle of the surrounding nature, Theo's attention shifted.
Reaching the water's edge, Theo paused and took a deep breath, tasting the freshly-flower-scented air, and then glanced at the pond’s water with his discerning gaze.
Almost immediately, a detailed description materialized in front of his eyes, revealing the mysteries of the new unlock place around him.
<<<<
[Dreamweaver's Pond] (level 1): Provides a glimpse of the world outside the farm, showing the area around where the farm's portal was cast, up to a hundred-meter radius.
>>>>
Theo mumbled inwardly, reading the details of the description floating before his eyes.
'Being able to glimpse the world outside, right from where I opened the portal... this is going to change things. No need to step outside when I can simply look through here. Also, I don't have to worry about Elena's usual check-ins for breakfast. With this pond, I can easily monitor a hundred meters around. This is a good tactical advantage.'
He allowed himself a small smile, realizing the strategic advantage he had just gained. 'Seems like this farm has more surprises in store than I initially thought.'
His gaze settled on the serene waters around him, the island upon which he stood, giving the pond's almost lake-like grandeur.
It was evident to him that this wasn't just any ordinary pond. With its size and the small island at its center, it beautifully blurred the boundaries between pond and lake. The island's presence only added to the allure of the scene.
Suddenly, the water shimmered and scenes began to materialize before him. His own room came into view. With a simple thought, the view shifted to the space just outside his room and then to the grand hall. The clarity of the images astounded him.
However, as the waters adjusted again, they started showcasing Elena’s room. An uneasy memory rushed back to him, the last time he had unintentionally almost seen her in a vulnerable state, changing her clothes.
A pang of guilt immediately enveloped him. 'I shouldn't invade her privacy like this,' he thought. With an inward command, he halted the pond's revelatory abilities, pulling away from the intrusive waters.
As he was busy with the ability of Dreamweaver's pond, a soft giggle pulled him back to the moment.
Lilith made a playful attempt to capture a butterfly, but it escaped her grasp, instead choosing to flutter and settle right on Theo's nose.
The girl made a pout, feeling betrayed. "Ugh, to think even butterflies prefer a simple farmer boy over an alluring lady like me. What injustice! Have you been casting some charm magic on them?"
Theo countered, "The only charm here is my natural charisma. Besides, maybe these creatures appreciate simplicity rather than complexity?"
Arching an eyebrow teasingly, she stepped closer and nudged him. "So, where's the mysterious crop of yours? Where are you hiding it?"
Lowering his voice in to a whisper, Theo asked, "If I disclosed all my secrets, they wouldn't remain secrets, would they? And why, pray tell, should I share my farming secrets with you?"
Flashing a sly smile that revealed her pointed fangs, she retorted, "Perhaps because I'm your ever-loyal, ever-hungry guardian?"
Theo laughed, playfully wagging a finger at her. "Or maybe you're an ever-scheming traitor in the making, waiting for the right moment once those chains shatter? Will you still be loyal, or will you turn on me?"
With her fangs gleaming in threat, she stepped closer in attempt to intimidate him. "Best spill your secrets while you still have all your blood."
His calm demeanor didn't waver, but a smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth. "As enticing as your offer sounds, I'd rather not become your snack today. But I do have news for you: I've advanced to circle rank 3."
She rolled her eyes with a knowing smile, "Oh, I was well aware of that. Felt the slight lift on the restrictions binding my powers."
Spotting the twinkle in her eyes, Theo took out two peculiar potatoes from the golden vault. Handing one over to her, he watched with amusement as she turned it over with puzzlement. Meanwhile, he intently inspected his own grown enchanted potato.
<<<<
[Shadowshade Potato]
This potato, rooted deep in the mystical soils of the Enchanted Land and caressed by the essence of Ash Bone souls, are further enriched with Abyssal water. The Shadowshade's dark hue masks its hidden magical strength. On consuming, they improve one's defense against poisons and diseases.
Perfect for those adventurous souls braving venomous threats and alchemists in search of that special ingredient. But a word of caution: eating too many might leave you a bit disoriented or with an upset stomach. Enjoy their magic, but always in moderation.
>>>>
Reading through the description of the potatoes he had grown, Theo's eyebrows lifted in surprise. He had half-expected them to be merely ordinary potatoes at best or, given their dark hue, possibly even inedible. But the revelation that they were imbued with properties granting poison resistance and immunity to illness was a good surprise indeed. It wasn't quite the shock he had predicted, but rather a pleasant discovery.
After processing the details of the Shadowshade's properties, Theo's thoughts were momentarily disrupted by Lilith's voice, who held the potato close and inquired with a hint of disbelief, "Why are you so fascinated by this? Is this your big secret? A mere potato?"
Theo merely raised an eyebrow, not giving away any answer. He wanted to see if the self-proclaimed 'big shot' could figure it out on her own.
His expectant look, silently urging her to think harder, prompted Lilith to examine the potato more intently. She placed it near her nose, and her eyes gleamed with realization.
"Not bad my precious mountain man... It seems you've truly honed your farming skills. I'm genuinely proud. These enchanted potatoes even grant a bit of poison resistance. In my homeland, you'd be revered as a top-tier farmer..."
Theo just fixed her with an unamused look, not appreciating her jest.
The girl couldn't resist teasing him a bit further, "You know, with you embracing this farming role so wholly, it's almost like you're fulfilling a silly little dream I had once. A naive dream where I thought of... Umm, marrying a farmer boy and living a simple life in the countryside." She spoke, clearly enjoying the discomfort her joke was causing him.
Storing the potatoes in his golden vault, Theo crossed his arms and remarked, "It's a bit hard to picture you dreaming of tilling land and chasing chickens."
Lilith responded in a pretended serious tone, waving the potato for emphasis, "Oh, but I did. And just look, my dream farmer even grows enchanted crops. How romantic!" Her words were dripping with a playful sarcasm, her eyes fixated on him a tad too intently.
Meeting her gaze, Theo replied with a deadpan expression, "Dream all you want, Demoness. Just remember, I won't be the guy ready to marry a girl whose idea of a morning tea is my blood."
Lilith gave an exaggerated Tsk, her fangs peeking out more prominently. "Why do you always resist? As I'm your guardian every drop of you belongs to me, so why can't I have just a taste?" Her voice was filled with frustration and longing, yet there was also a mischievous glint in her eyes, desiring only to tease him.
Theo studied her for a moment, then remarked, "For someone who spent a decade trapped in a basement, you sure have a good sense of humor."
Lilith's eyes clouded over, her previously playful demeanor crumbling in an instant. A dangerous fire seemed to ignite in her eyes as she shot back, "Don't go there," she retorted sharply, irritation flickering in her tone and face.
[B1] Chapter 26: Circle Rank 3
<<<<
[Ring Power strengthened by 2 points.]
[Ring Power is at 18/20 points.]
[Ring Power strengthened by 2 points.]
[Your first ring has evolved to Rank 3.]
[You've reached Circle Rank 3.]
[You have received 3 free stat points.]
[Your Demonic Farm has advanced to Level 3.]
[You have unlocked an additional acre of land.]
>>>>
A smile graced his lips as he read the messages. This was a pleasant surprise; his ring, circle, and farm ranks had all advanced to level 3.
This wasn't just an upgrade in numbers. He could feel the surge in strength, the additional stat points that accompanied it, and could visibly see the expansion of his land.
The boundaries, which were once fixed, now moved, extending past the pond that both he and Lilith had set their eyes on, making it now a part of his territory. It was quite the sight, watching the fences, which previously ended just shy of the mesmerizing pond, now stretch further, bringing the pond within their confines.
As for the harvested potatoes, even though they vanished from sight after being plucked, Theo knew they were in safe keeping. From the 182 seeds planted, he reaped an impressive yield of 1,274 enchanted potatoes. The notifications left no room for doubt; each Shadowshade potato was stored safely within the spatial dimension of golden vault, waiting to be taken out when needed.
Theo's attention shifted as he noticed Lilith who was excitedly moving towards the pond. It was evident that even though she cherished the farm's darker environment, the allure of the pond's butterflies and its innate beauty seemed to have a unique pull on her heart.
Theo watched as Lilith's eyes glistened with mischief and delight. Her heels barely touched the ground, almost like a child exploring a new playground. She practically floated towards the shimmering waters, the dancing butterflies catching her eye.
As she drew nearer, Lilith's gaze was caught by a quaint bridge leading to a small island in the middle of the pond. The fine line between a pond and a lake was sometimes the presence of an island, and this particular body of water treaded that boundary beautifully.
Without hesitation, she made her way across, her footsteps resounding softly on the wooden planks. By the time Theo caught up, Lilith was already on the island, completely engrossed in the beauty around her.
Shaking his head, he trailed behind her, his own curiosity piqued. This new addition to the farm, this mysterious pond, caught his attention. He simply wanted to check it out. The entire scene felt like an oasis amid the eerie demonic farm. The serene waters, the butterflies, and the greenery landscape beckoned him closer.
As they both set foot on the island, surrounded by the pond, Theo could hear the gentle lapping of the water against its shores, see the fish darting about, and feel the subtle cool breeze that carried the sweet scent of the blossoms. The serenity of the place was making him momentarily forget the dark environment of the farm they were in.
Unable to resist the pond's charm, Lilith started to play with the water, scooping it with her hands and sending gentle splashes towards Theo.
As droplets landed on his face, different from the sun's warmth with their cool touch, he shot her a stern look.
"Ah, demoness! Trading blood for water now?" He retorted.
Lilith giggled, her eyes narrowing slightly in a playful way. "I could always take both if you're offering, Farmer boy," she suggested, scooping up another handful of water as if it were a threat.
Sighing in resignation, Theo remarked, "Maybe I preferred the vampire version of you. She at least pretended to have some manners and seemed to be more... cultured."
Her eyes darkened, and her voice lowered to a chilling whisper, "Didn't I warn you about calling me that? One more time, and maybe I'll give you a real taste of what a bite feels like. For a human, you have quite a bit of audacity." Her words held a hint of a scolding.
"Or perhaps it's just a side effect of being around a certain demoness for so long?" He replied with a calm tone.
As their playful banter vanished into the gentle rustle of the surrounding nature, Theo's attention shifted.
Reaching the water's edge, Theo paused and took a deep breath, tasting the freshly-flower-scented air, and then glanced at the pond’s water with his discerning gaze.
Almost immediately, a detailed description materialized in front of his eyes, revealing the mysteries of the new unlock place around him.
<<<<
[Dreamweaver's Pond] (level 1): Provides a glimpse of the world outside the farm, showing the area around where the farm's portal was cast, up to a hundred-meter radius.
>>>>
Theo mumbled inwardly, reading the details of the description floating before his eyes.
'Being able to glimpse the world outside, right from where I opened the portal... this is going to change things. No need to step outside when I can simply look through here. Also, I don't have to worry about Elena's usual check-ins for breakfast. With this pond, I can easily monitor a hundred meters around. This is a good tactical advantage.'
He allowed himself a small smile, realizing the strategic advantage he had just gained. 'Seems like this farm has more surprises in store than I initially thought.'
His gaze settled on the serene waters around him, the island upon which he stood, giving the pond's almost lake-like grandeur.
It was evident to him that this wasn't just any ordinary pond. With its size and the small island at its center, it beautifully blurred the boundaries between pond and lake. The island's presence only added to the allure of the scene.
Suddenly, the water shimmered and scenes began to materialize before him. His own room came into view. With a simple thought, the view shifted to the space just outside his room and then to the grand hall. The clarity of the images astounded him.
However, as the waters adjusted again, they started showcasing Elena’s room. An uneasy memory rushed back to him, the last time he had unintentionally almost seen her in a vulnerable state, changing her clothes.
A pang of guilt immediately enveloped him. 'I shouldn't invade her privacy like this,' he thought. With an inward command, he halted the pond's revelatory abilities, pulling away from the intrusive waters.
As he was busy with the ability of Dreamweaver's pond, a soft giggle pulled him back to the moment.
Lilith made a playful attempt to capture a butterfly, but it escaped her grasp, instead choosing to flutter and settle right on Theo's nose.
The girl made a pout, feeling betrayed. "Ugh, to think even butterflies prefer a simple farmer boy over an alluring lady like me. What injustice! Have you been casting some charm magic on them?"
Theo countered, "The only charm here is my natural charisma. Besides, maybe these creatures appreciate simplicity rather than complexity?"
Arching an eyebrow teasingly, she stepped closer and nudged him. "So, where's the mysterious crop of yours? Where are you hiding it?"
Lowering his voice in to a whisper, Theo asked, "If I disclosed all my secrets, they wouldn't remain secrets, would they? And why, pray tell, should I share my farming secrets with you?"
Flashing a sly smile that revealed her pointed fangs, she retorted, "Perhaps because I'm your ever-loyal, ever-hungry guardian?"
Theo laughed, playfully wagging a finger at her. "Or maybe you're an ever-scheming traitor in the making, waiting for the right moment once those chains shatter? Will you still be loyal, or will you turn on me?"
With her fangs gleaming in threat, she stepped closer in attempt to intimidate him. "Best spill your secrets while you still have all your blood."
His calm demeanor didn't waver, but a smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth. "As enticing as your offer sounds, I'd rather not become your snack today. But I do have news for you: I've advanced to circle rank 3."
She rolled her eyes with a knowing smile, "Oh, I was well aware of that. Felt the slight lift on the restrictions binding my powers."
Spotting the twinkle in her eyes, Theo took out two peculiar potatoes from the golden vault. Handing one over to her, he watched with amusement as she turned it over with puzzlement. Meanwhile, he intently inspected his own grown enchanted potato.
<<<<
[Shadowshade Potato]
This potato, rooted deep in the mystical soils of the Enchanted Land and caressed by the essence of Ash Bone souls, are further enriched with Abyssal water. The Shadowshade's dark hue masks its hidden magical strength. On consuming, they improve one's defense against poisons and diseases.
Perfect for those adventurous souls braving venomous threats and alchemists in search of that special ingredient. But a word of caution: eating too many might leave you a bit disoriented or with an upset stomach. Enjoy their magic, but always in moderation.
>>>>
Reading through the description of the potatoes he had grown, Theo's eyebrows lifted in surprise. He had half-expected them to be merely ordinary potatoes at best or, given their dark hue, possibly even inedible. But the revelation that they were imbued with properties granting poison resistance and immunity to illness was a good surprise indeed. It wasn't quite the shock he had predicted, but rather a pleasant discovery.
After processing the details of the Shadowshade's properties, Theo's thoughts were momentarily disrupted by Lilith's voice, who held the potato close and inquired with a hint of disbelief, "Why are you so fascinated by this? Is this your big secret? A mere potato?"
Theo merely raised an eyebrow, not giving away any answer. He wanted to see if the self-proclaimed 'big shot' could figure it out on her own.
His expectant look, silently urging her to think harder, prompted Lilith to examine the potato more intently. She placed it near her nose, and her eyes gleamed with realization.
"Not bad my precious mountain man... It seems you've truly honed your farming skills. I'm genuinely proud. These enchanted potatoes even grant a bit of poison resistance. In my homeland, you'd be revered as a top-tier farmer..."
Theo just fixed her with an unamused look, not appreciating her jest.
The girl couldn't resist teasing him a bit further, "You know, with you embracing this farming role so wholly, it's almost like you're fulfilling a silly little dream I had once. A naive dream where I thought of... Umm, marrying a farmer boy and living a simple life in the countryside." She spoke, clearly enjoying the discomfort her joke was causing him.
Storing the potatoes in his golden vault, Theo crossed his arms and remarked, "It's a bit hard to picture you dreaming of tilling land and chasing chickens."
Lilith responded in a pretended serious tone, waving the potato for emphasis, "Oh, but I did. And just look, my dream farmer even grows enchanted crops. How romantic!" Her words were dripping with a playful sarcasm, her eyes fixated on him a tad too intently.
Meeting her gaze, Theo replied with a deadpan expression, "Dream all you want, Demoness. Just remember, I won't be the guy ready to marry a girl whose idea of a morning tea is my blood."
Lilith gave an exaggerated Tsk, her fangs peeking out more prominently. "Why do you always resist? As I'm your guardian every drop of you belongs to me, so why can't I have just a taste?" Her voice was filled with frustration and longing, yet there was also a mischievous glint in her eyes, desiring only to tease him.
Theo studied her for a moment, then remarked, "For someone who spent a decade trapped in a basement, you sure have a good sense of humor."
Lilith's eyes clouded over, her previously playful demeanor crumbling in an instant. A dangerous fire seemed to ignite in her eyes as she shot back, "Don't go there," she retorted sharply, irritation flickering in her tone and face.
