Full-Time Mage: Starting From Obtaining the White Tiger Pendant

"I plan to renew the Star Nebula Magic Tool for another six months, three million," my sister said.

It's easy to go from frugality to luxury, but hard to go from luxury to frugality. She had long been accustomed to rapid cultivation growth. Give her another month or two, and her Wind Element would break through to level two!

Lu Jun agreed with this. Money is external wealth. They were both in a period of rapid growth and couldn't afford to be stingy.

Finally, the two returned home, washed up, and sat on the sofa to cultivate.

Buzz buzz buzz!

Lu Jun's spirit probed into the White Tiger Pendant. On a blood-red lake, some light spots floated. Only one complete Servant-level Essence Soul shone the brightest. He had hunted two Magic Wolf nests and collected hundreds of Remnant Souls, synthesizing another Essence Soul.

He carefully guided the dim blue candlelight into his Spiritual World. At this moment, the Gold Element Stardust had expanded to its limit, tightly wrapped by a faint light film on the outer layer of the platinum light mass.

This represented the end of Primary level cultivation. Breaking through this hazy light screen would transform Stardust into a Star Nebula, advancing to Intermediate level.

Lu Jun had been grinding for a long time. The light film had become very thin, on the verge of collapse. Next, he would use the Essence Soul to assist the breakthrough, making it a natural progression.

Honestly, Mo Fan's dual-element breakthrough with heavenly treasures was extremely rare. Most people progressed like this, grinding away.

Those students from Great Noble Families who entered the Academy with Intermediate level cultivation and mastered Magic, even after accounting for the time spent on breakthroughs and controlling Star Seeds, would have reached the peak of Primary level by the end of their second year.

Therefore, Lu Jun's breakthrough in the middle of his second year was completely reasonable. It was possible that Mu Ningxue also reached Intermediate level at this age.

Soon, the Essence Soul merged into a platinum Star Seed, instantly causing it to expand several times. Seven Star Seeds flickered within the Star Nebula, three of which were positioned high above, drawing closer to Intermediate level Rank 4 Magic.

Rumble!

The platinum light mass within the light screen silently brewed a certain sharpness. Once it reached a certain point, it suddenly erupted. An internal sword imprint let out a long cry, soaring into the sky.

With a slash, it completely tore through the light screen, opening the heavens with a sword in the endless dark cosmos, carving out a more brilliant [Platinum Star Nebula].

The original platinum light mass's scale rapidly increased, expanding seven to eight times. Forty-nine Star Seeds emerged, like a galaxy floating within, dazzling and brilliant.

Lu Jun felt a sharp pain in his head. A surge of immense Magic power welled up from deep within, constantly expanding his spiritual boundaries. His mental power seemed to gain substance, growing significantly stronger.

Externally, the young man was bathed in platinum radiance, his sharp aura sweeping across the small courtyard of the living room.

Lu Mei, who had been meditating, felt a stinging sensation on her skin, a shiver running down her spine. She quickly woke up and looked at her brother, a smile appearing on her face. "Intermediate Mage, seventeen years old."

When Lu Jun opened his eyes, they were filled with sharpness, making ordinary people afraid to meet his gaze. He heard his sister's gentle voice, "Congratulations."

"Hehe." Lu Jun couldn't help but curve his lips, his heart filled with joy. Just now, the White Tiger Pendant had sent another message: the Intermediate level Gold Element Magic was called [Artifact Control].

Rank 1 was [Sword Control · Flight]! Utilizing the metallic magnetism spread across the entire planet, he could control the Vibranium Heavy Sword with ease, beheading enemies a hundred paces away as if plucking something from his pocket.

Most importantly, with the Gold Element achieving Star Nebula, the Primary level effects of Size Alteration and Golden Radiance had greatly improved. The Vibranium could expand up to nine times, from 1.3 meters to approximately 12 meters, with a width of at least one meter.

Lu Jun immediately thought of various ways to use it. If the sword could fly, wouldn't someone standing on it be like Li Xiaoyao flying on a sword?

Cough cough, this time he had advanced from the Swiftblade!

Of course, compared to the immortal cultivation trope of merging with the sword and transforming into a sword light that pierced the heavens, it was a bit less impressive. But it was still quite cool, wasn't it? Besides, this was only Intermediate level, what more could he ask for?

Moreover, he didn't have to worry about people getting vertigo standing on it. The heavy sword, larger than the bed in the CEO's house, could carry a cartload... or even a person.

With Intermediate level, Lu Jun had gained air superiority. He recalled that the Intermediate level Water Element Magic, [Raging Waves], was undoubtedly a long-range attack method. It was incredible; both elements, from Primary to Intermediate level, were so compatible.

"I originally thought the Size Alteration effect was mediocre, but I didn't expect it to be so versatile when combined with the [Artifact Control] Magic."

"There are even two modes: shrinking nine times into a sword gleam for undetectable assassination, or growing nine times and using the sword to smash down from the sky. Even a General-level opponent would be pierced through and die on the spot."

Lu Jun was excited. He felt there were many more ways to play with it, not to mention flying on the sword, coming and going freely.

He couldn't fully grasp all the Star Seeds yet and didn't know the specific effects or range of Artifact Control. He would figure it out later.

Besides, this was only Intermediate level Rank 1. Ranks 2 and 3 would have even more practical skills, which were worth looking forward to.

"It's just that it feels quite countered by the Intermediate level Lightning Element Magic [Thunderbolt]. A bolt of lightning descending from the sky, and I'm a sitting duck on my sword in the air! I need to find a way to counter it."

Lu Jun stroked his chin. Actually, metal wasn't entirely countered by lightning. For example, he could use its conductivity and abandon the Gold Element to defend against the Lightning Element alone.

Once the heavy sword was no longer limited to being held, the possibilities became endless.

"This isn't over yet." Lu Jun remembered that his Vibranium Heavy Sword could incorporate a second type of metal at Intermediate level, which would further enhance it, still a magic metal that could add special effects.

He was invincible, truly invincible.

Lu Mei walked up to her brother, her pretty face filled with confusion as she looked at the grinning young man. She leaned over and gently placed her hand on his forehead. "What's wrong? Are you going crazy?"

Chapter 30: Second Awakening

As her sister leaned over, her full curves tightened. Lu Jun stared ahead, his eyes catching the dazzling white skin peeking from the round collar of her cream-colored sweater, a deep cleavage visible. His eyelids twitched, and he quickly pulled away Lu Mei's hand.

He turned his head aside and said, "It's nothing, the Intermediate level Gold Element skill is very powerful."

Hearing this, Lu Mei didn't notice her brother's unusual behavior. She sighed and began counting on her fingers. "The Gold Element needs to fuse with another magic metal again. Fortunately, it's just materials, about ten million should cover it."

"It's just that the money never seems to accumulate."

"There's no rush for the magic metal," Lu Jun said, his mind calming down as he pondered. "I currently only have the [Sturdiness] effect. For the second effect, I want something with offensive capabilities. I'll take my time choosing."

After advancing to Intermediate level, his innate Magic Tool was also nourished. With the convergence of forty-nine Star Seeds, the power of his Gold Element Magic relied entirely on this sword. The original Sturdiness effect had improved; it could withstand attacks from leaders during the advancement period, and now it felt like even an Sub-Lord would have difficulty destroying it.

"Mhm," Lu Mei nodded. "You're also about to go to university. You'll have access to some magic tool laboratories then, with more connections than I have, and you can choose any type you want."

Then, she bit her lip and asked, "What element do you want to awaken at Intermediate level?"

"Me? Mind, Curse, or Undead, perhaps."

Lu Jun had already prepared his thoughts. He leaned more towards awakening Mind + another element at the Intermediate level. After his research, these three elements held many future opportunities, each with its own unique uses. If developed well, they might not be inferior to Mo Fan's Lightning and Fire.

Especially the Mind element. He had been in this world for a year and a half, and some parts of his original memories had become blurry. Awakening the Mind element would allow him to sift through the deeper layers of his memories, eliminating any gaps.

Furthermore, don't underestimate the Mind element. Below the High level, it might lack combat power, but it was practically a bug-level Magic element.

Firstly, it was unbeatable in one-on-one Mage duels, effectively countering all Magic elements. The most fundamental aspect was that Mind could prevent you from casting Magic, disrupting the connection of Star Seeds.

Without Magic, a Mage was just an ordinary human, wasn't he?

Lu Jun vividly remembered Mo Fan suffering greatly almost every time he encountered a Mind Mage. Although he always won in the end, the process was the most frustrating. Without Mind Magic Tools or teammates, he was helpless.

Secondly, it could evade the hostility of Demonic Beasts. With profound cultivation, one could even control Demonic Beasts, making them the king of wilderness survival.

Lu Jun's Gold Element talent could barely be hidden at the Intermediate level, but at the High level, it would likely become very conspicuous, instantly revealing that he wasn't just after Magic Tools.

At that time, he had three plans: A, B, and C. Plan A was to hide until he was invincible, relying on the nation's protection so no one would dare touch him. Then there was Plan B, to expose himself early and rely on the mediation of various powers. The backup was Plan C: if this place doesn't want me, another will.

He could defect to powerful Demonic Beasts and reside in an empire. To achieve this, Mind was essential, allowing communication with Demonic Beast Monarchs. A more lenient approach would be like the Kunlun Empire, which was friendly to humans. A harsher one would be like the Bermuda Empire, which wouldn't mind a traitor.

As long as he stayed alive, he could plan for the bigger picture.

Of course, Lu Jun wouldn't choose Plan C unless absolutely necessary. He still had his sister, and it was better to live in the human world. But if they pushed him too far, he wouldn't hesitate to use any means for revenge.

Lu Mei didn't know her brother's calculations. She frowned and said, "These three elements are too obscure. It'll be hard to find seniors to guide you, and they're difficult to improve. Why not choose an Elemental element? Shadow Element would also work, as you're missing a displacement ability."

"I have Gold and Water elements. Elemental magic, whether it's Lightning, Fire, or others, overlaps. I don't lack displacement now; what I lack is control. Mind is the most suitable."

Lu Jun stuck to his own path. He knew that unlike Elemental Magic, the Mind element had no Spirit Seeds or Soul Seeds. Its strengthening path was not fixed, and it was highly likely to develop a very peculiar and difficult skill tree.

In the late game, any strong individual without abilities that surpassed the standard Magic system wouldn't dare to boast.

"Fine, do as you wish."

Lu Mei said helplessly, "Let's go to the Magic Association to awaken."

The siblings left and headed straight for Bo City's landmark, the Yin Mao Building. On one hand, this skyscraper was the tallest and most luxurious building in the city, standing out from the rest. It also housed many organizations, and beneath it lay the hidden treasure of Bo City, the Earth Sacred Spring.

On the other hand... Lu Jun stood before the entrance, gazing up at the building. A sky-shading shadow was cast, truly exuding an oppressive feeling.

He recalled that a year and a half later, when the One-Eyed Magic Wolf pack invaded, a Commander-level Winged Azure Wolf would perch on the building, looking down on all beings, arrogant and invincible. Below, Demonic Beasts would run rampant, as if it had become a demon's nest. It was a classic scene.

Lu Jun was filled with emotion. Perhaps with him here this time, things would be different.

As the siblings stepped into the Magic Association entrance of the Yin Mao Building, a female assistant greeted them with a smile, "Two distinguished guests, how may I help you?"

After they had processed their Essence Souls here successively, the Magic Association had directly promoted their levels to the highest.

Lu Mei got straight to the point, "Awaken Magic. Keep the personnel confidential. Take me to a private room."

Hearing this, the female assistant didn't pry further. She nodded in agreement and smiled, "This way, please. Due to your special privileges, the awakening is free."

Lu Jun was pleasantly surprised. Getting something for free was the best.

Soon, they entered a minimalist, silver, tech-themed private room. A Star Compass stood in the center, with specialized awakening stones already placed as requested. A transparent crystal represented the Mind element, and a black stone represented Undead or Curse.

Regarding the latter, Curse and Undead were inseparable. Undead originated from Curse, and only after reaching its peak did it split and form its own element.

He was open to awakening either, depending on his luck.

"Please make yourselves comfortable," the female assistant said softly before leaving and closing the door.

Urged by his sister, Lu Jun took a deep breath and stood before the Star Compass. He touched it with both hands, closed his eyes, and began his second awakening.

Hummm!

Soon, he felt a strange Magic Energy transmitting from his hands and converging in his mind.

In the infinite darkness of his Spiritual World, nothing seemed to have changed.

Lu Jun felt a peculiar sensation arise in his consciousness. He looked towards a corner beside the azure and platinum Star System, where a tiny patch of transparent Stardust appeared. Seven semi-transparent Star Seeds floated, almost blending into the background.

The Mind element had awakened!

Immediately after, behind the transparent Stardust, a black-red hue emerged. If the former exuded serenity, the latter was ominous.

In his Spiritual World, the Gold Element Star Nebula was the most expansive and brilliant, firmly occupying the center. The Water Element Stardust beside it was second only to it. Finally, there were these two patches of Stardust.

"This is... Curse Element!"

Lu Jun recognized it after a moment and rejoiced inwardly, nodding in satisfaction. The Curse Element, if nothing else, was used skillfully by Zhan Kong. The Zu family was the strongest in the country, and it was related to his close-combat path.

In the future, there was a Super level skill, [Curse Possession Technique], which was the only method in the original work for a human to gain the monstrous physique of a Demonic Beast. (It was a forbidden technique of the Zu family, but I don't think such a monstrous effect could be achieved without the involvement of Super level magic.)

Intermediate level Artifact Control didn't mean he abandoned the path of close combat. However, as one progressed further, Commander and Monarch level Demonic Beasts were enormous, comparable to Godzilla. One's physique also needed to keep up.

Imagine a Monarch level physique combined with Gold Element lethality. It would be perfect for cosplaying a Dark Sword Master.

Chapter 31: Mental Power Realm

Lu Mei was delighted to see this. "The second Curse Element is good! Its damage at the Primary and Intermediate levels is astonishing and hard to defend against. It's also the powerful control skill you're lacking."

Lu Jun smiled and nodded beside her. He sensed the Mind and Curse Stardust within him. His mental intent felt like it had become tangible, and he had awakened some peculiar abilities.

However, this would require slow exploration later. He could roughly guess that it was related to [Mental Power Cultivation]. His sister's concern about "obscure Magic elements and how to improve them" was not a problem in his eyes.

Because no one understood Magic better than him!

The power of Dimensional Magic's [Space], [Summon], [Sound], [Chaos], and White Magic's [Mind] and Black Magic's [Curse] all depended on the mental level.

It is divided into nine realms, from the first to the ninth.

The first three realms provide a Magic bonus equivalent to a Spirit Seed, the middle three realms are equivalent to a Soul Seed, and the final three great realms are even more invincible.

So, as long as Lu Jun's mental realm improves, both elements can receive the bonus simultaneously, saving him trouble.

At that time, his Primary Magic of Mind/Curse would achieve the effect of others' Intermediate or even High-level Magic.

This happens to be the advantage of being born with Dual Elements; with more Magic elements, his mental power is naturally double that of others.

Lu Jun's current mental power is already infinitely close to the first realm. Once his Water Element breaks through to Intermediate level, he will enter the first realm of mental power.

Even so, he remembered from the original work that Mo Fan only reached the late second realm of mental power when he was High-level in both elements. So, while it seems simple, it's actually quite difficult.

For the remaining year and a half of high school, Lu Jun doesn't plan to focus his energy on the Mind and Curse elements. Mastering Primary Magic and reaching level three will be sufficient.

The remaining time will be spent controlling the Star Seeds of the Gold Element. He has half a year to break through to Intermediate level in Water Element, and then he will need to control Star Seeds again. All in all, time is quite tight.

After his awakening, Lu Jun left the Yin Mao Building, and the two of them went home chatting and laughing.

Little did they know, not long after they left, Mo Fan, under the alias Fan Mo, entered the first-floor Demon Hunting Alliance hall, looking to join a City Demon Hunting Squad, a little earlier than in the original timeline.

Having witnessed the gap, Mo Fan was determined to catch up.

In the end, as expected, he joined Cai Shang's team. At the same time, he heard about the great reputations of Lu Mei and Lu Jun, the siblings, which increased his pressure once again.

Lu Jun was unaware of this. He spent the rest of his winter break immersed in controlling the Star Seeds of the Gold Element.

He only managed to connect two Star Orbits just before returning to school, with five more needed to draw the Star Map.

During this time, he also set aside some time to control the newly awakened Mind and Curse elements. Due to his rich experience and improved mental intent, he might be able to cast Primary Magic in just one or two months.