Chapter 1897: Final preparations (I)
Chapter 1897: Final preparations (I)
A week passed in the blink of an eye.
The warriors of the Scarlet Path stood together, brimming with killing intent and unwavering resolve as they stared up at the Scarlet King. Even though it had only been seven short days, their energy and physical power had soared dramatically thanks to the treasures and resources they’d secured from the Scarlet Pyramid. Now, their strength had reached unprecedented heights, and they felt more than ready for whatever awaited them next.
Cain opened his eyes, feeling their gazes upon him. He returned their focus, taking a deep breath as he concentrated his immense power. A brilliant flame surged through his veins, gathering into his clenched right fist. In the next instant, he struck toward the sky with overwhelming force.
"CRACK!"
Immediately, the fabric of space split apart, and a portal materialized, far more refined and stable than before. While Cain’s Astral Rebirth Path didn’t directly enhance his control over the Laws themselves, the evolution had significantly strengthened his soul force, granting him finer manipulation over the cosmic energies of his Inner Universe.
Alucard stepped forward, his presence erupting fiercely as he shouted with pride and determination, "Hail the Scarlet King! For the Scarlet Path!"
Star Power surged from his body, illuminating the sky as he led the charge headfirst into the newly opened portal. Behind him, the massive army of Scarlet Path warriors followed without hesitation, each bearing a determined expression.
Cain remained alone once again. With a calm gesture, he closed the portal, ensuring their path was secure. After confirming the massive formation across the Everlife Continent was proceeding without issues, Cain waved his hand once more. Immediately, a massive red sphere manifested around him and the Scarlet Pyramid, radiating an ominous aura. Seconds later, a devouring force surged from within, connecting with the surrounding void and rapidly absorbing oceanic waves of chaotic energy.
Curiosity flickered in the eyes of those watching from below, wondering what exactly the Scarlet King was doing within that mysterious sphere. However, everyone quickly refocused on their assigned tasks, understanding that the fate of continents rested upon their diligent efforts.
Time passed swiftly as the Scarlet Path’s influence spread further. Runic lines extended across the Everlife Continent, growing in complexity and brilliance with each passing day. Observing these rapid advancements, the Sky Sovereign couldn’t hide his astonishment and admiration for the Six Chief Counselors and the millions of Rune Masters tirelessly working in perfect unity. Although he was personally responsible for crafting the formation’s most critical elements, it required the seamless cooperation of millions—something he had initially thought impossible due to the pride and arrogance often prevalent among high-ranking rune experts.
Yet, it worked seamlessly.
The people of Aether held no illusions about their individual abilities. They neither exaggerated their skills nor undermined those around them. Teamwork and coordination had long been deeply engraved into their culture. All they had required was logical, effective guidance—something Minxet and the other counselors expertly provided.
Meanwhile, the campaign unfolding in the Shadowcradle Continent was equally impressive. Fierce battles raged without pause, culminating in a breathtaking confrontation between Alucard and Nullavir. The woman from the Legio Eldritch Race was undoubtedly formidable, specializing in powerful soul-based techniques. However, she met her match in Alucard, whose mental defenses were exceptionally potent due to his Alter-Ego’s evolution and continuous empowerment from the Scarlet Star. Their epic clash ended decisively in Alucard’s favor.
Two and a half months after the Scarlet Pyramid’s initial appearance, the entire Everlife Continent suddenly began to glow radiantly. Millions upon millions of runic lines—some finer than strands of hair, others thicker than ancient tree trunks—spread rapidly across fortresses, oceans, mountains, and valleys alike. It was a breathtaking marvel of runic mastery that the continent had not witnessed in countless eras.
Less than a day after the formation reached completion, a group appeared in the sky above the Everlife Continent. Alucard stepped confidently through the newly formed portal, his body bearing various wounds, yet a broad smile stretched across his face. Behind him marched the elite forces of the Scarlet Path, accompanied by six additional Prima Deities from the Shadowcradle Continent—including Nullavir herself.
The battles in Shadowcradle had not been as devastatingly large-scale as previous expeditions, largely due to word spreading of what had transpired in Endlesslight. Many cultivators had wisely fled, seeking to avoid the Scarlet Path’s wrath. However, not everyone had escaped in time. Scarlet warriors had still claimed numerous lives, enhancing their power while simultaneously fueling the Scarlet Throne.
As Alucard and his forces arrived, their eyes widened with astonishment at the majestic runic web spreading endlessly beneath them. Excitement filled their hearts—it was a new, formidable weapon for the Scarlet Path in the upcoming war.
Yet, their attention quickly shifted to the colossal red sphere suspended in the sky above the Gu Sect. Without delay, they advanced, swiftly assuming a disciplined formation beneath it, awaiting their king.
Nullavir and the other Prima Deities captured from Shadowcradle were equally stunned by the spectacular runic formation and the enigmatic sphere in the sky. However, their attention was soon drawn to Auramyth and the remaining members of the Endlesslight Continent. The somber expressions on their faces sent shivers down the newcomers’ spines.
A meaningful glint appeared in Nullavir’s eyes as she quietly attempted to communicate telepathically with the other Prima Deities, seeking to understand their circumstances. Yet before she could even begin, a sharp, oppressive gaze from Alucard froze her actions instantly. Realizing her mental prowess was no match for the Atrox Immortus’ sharpened psychic senses, Nullavir quietly lowered her head and accepted her current fate.
Fortunately, her wait was brief.
Shortly after the Scarlet Path’s elite forces had fully gathered in formation, the enormous sphere trembled. Suddenly, Cain emerged, and his aura exploded outward with breathtaking intensity. To the warriors of the Scarlet Path, his radiant presence felt like basking in the warmth of a divine sun—empowering, reassuring, and invincible. But to Nullavir and the other captive Prima Deities from Shadowcradle, standing before Cain felt akin to confronting a supernova moments away from erupting. The raw pressure made them tremble inwardly, a stark reminder of the cosmic might of the Scarlet King.