The Final Interlude

"You're back, Li Lin."

Stepping off the airship, Li Lin was immediately struck by Nia's smiling face, and standing beside her Nisi, who had officially become an Arcane Mage. While the elven mage's gaze towards Li Lin still held the respect she had shown in her youth, it was now filled with even more confidence and pride. Clearly, she was beginning to try and familiarize herself with her new identity.

"You're back, Lady Luoxia."

You've made great progress!

Li Lin nodded to Nisi. He could sense the powerful and unhindered elemental power the elven mage currently possessed. Although she wasn't fully proficient yet, her fusion skills were already quite impressive. If this continued, it wouldn't be long before she became a truly qualified Arcane Mage.

"It seems you haven't slacked off on your training during this time."

Those who can become Arcane Mage are all individuals with innate talent, so Li Lin has no need to praise Nisi's talent. On the contrary, precisely because Arcane Mage possess outstanding abilities, their future achievements depend entirely on their own efforts. Nisi's ability to achieve this level in such a short time is certainly not due to her innate talent, but rather to her hard work.

"..."

Nisi smiled slightly, then looked at Nia with a hint of reproach, who completely ignored her silent protest. Admittedly, while Nisi's own efforts during this time were crucial, it's hard to say whether she would have reached this level if the Eternal Library hadn't been constantly pushing her. Moreover, even after successfully overcoming the first hurdle, Nisi's journey ahead is still very long.

"However, Nisi, it's about time you changed how you address me."

Li Lin reached out and patted the elven mage on the shoulder, and said...

My name is now Li Lin, not Luoxia.

"But I still prefer to call you by that name, Lady Luoxia."

"... Take your time."

Faced with Nisi's somewhat stubborn refusal, Li Lin could only shrug. He then turned and walked towards his own tower, listening to Nia's report on the past few days. In fact, nothing too troublesome or strange had happened. The only change was that Kalin's Garden of Verdure had now become Nisi's territory. As Arcane Mage, Nisi should have had her own independent floating city. However, there were clearly no resources to rebuild it at the moment, so Nia had to settle for temporarily lending Kalin's floating city to Nisi. After all, it was the most suitable environment for elves to live in, and Kalin herself was rarely there except when necessary. In addition, a group of elves were currently living there, so it wasn't a problem for Nisi to use it temporarily.

Besides learning the combat techniques of Arcane Mage, Nisi also begins to take on the responsibilities of Arcane Mage.

Arcane Mage were not merely powerful warriors; otherwise, they wouldn't have been the rulers of an imperial civilization. Back in the Magic Empire era, thirteen Arcane Mage were each responsible for different areas: finance, education, research, military, diplomacy, art, and transportation. Each Arcane Mage was the highest-ranking official in their respective field, making decisions, issuing policies, and implementing them. Except for military matters, which were decided jointly by all thirteen Arcane Mage, the other areas were largely independent. They possessed equal power and status, but no single Arcane Mage had the right to directly interfere with the actions of other Arcane Mage in other areas. If they had questions about a policy, they had to convene a meeting of all thirteen mages. Three Arcane Mage voted, with the majority determining the winner. Most of the time, there was no need to worry about Arcane Mage making wrong choices due to irrationality, given their seemingly endless lifespans and absolute power. No one was qualified to threaten their rule. Furthermore, each Arcane Mage had a group of elites in the field assisting them and providing timely advice. Most importantly, Arcane Mage would never do anything to harm the empire's interests. Due to their inherent nature, if the Magic Empire were damaged, the Arcane Mage's power would weaken, or even worse, they might lose their immense strength. No Arcane Mage would choose to take such a risk. They would do their utmost to achieve the best possible outcome.

The current Ringwraith City isn't as complex as the vast empire of a thousand years ago, but there's still a lot to handle. Nia oversees everything, while Angela is currently in charge of military affairs (because the undead army only obeys her command, and besides the undead legion, Li Lin hasn't yet formed any other effective fighting force). Yi Aier has taken over weapons research and manufacturing, while Suoxiate focuses on intelligence gathering and investigation. Only Kalin and Anna have no work, and their personalities aren't suited to taking on overly important responsibilities.

As for Nisi, after she became Arcane Mage, Li Lin granted her authority over elven diplomatic affairs. Although Nisi still needs time to adapt to the relationship between her status and power, she will surely achieve something in time. Of course, it must be said that Nisi is still somewhat unaccustomed to seeing her respected sister and Queen being so polite to her.

After hearing about the results of Li Lin's trip, everyone fell into a silence.

"So... if war breaks out, the dragons will also side with us?"

Finally, Nisi broke the silence. Although she was still carefully choosing her words, she seemed to have already taken on the responsibility of Arcane Mage.

"The Metallic Dragon will remain silent, while the Chromatic Dragons will assist us in the battle... Of course, in return, we will shed a considerable amount of blood. However, gaining the powerful fighting force of the dragons will still be quite helpful to us. Nisi, how are the preparations on the elves' side?"

After answering Nisi's question, Li Lin asked in return.

"Regarding the elves... based on the weapons you provided, Lady Luoxia, Her Majesty has organized a combat force of three thousand men. As for the 'crossbow' weapon you provided, it is now fully equipped and ready for use at any time."

"We have too few men. We're facing an attack from the Five-Nation Alliance. They have the largest army and vast territory; these men are simply not enough. What about the Dark Elf?"

Regarding the Dark Elf...

Upon hearing this, Nisi paused for a moment. After all, deep down, she was still a relatively traditional and conservative elf, and she still harbored some resistance towards a corrupt race like the Dark Elf.

"According to the message from the First Matriarch, they have assembled a combat force of five thousand. Moreover, the Weapon Spirit have been fully armed. The First Matriarch has currently sealed off the Black Road and is closely monitoring the battle between Lalia and Kudeer."

Are they planning to profit from the chaos? Typical Dark Elf tactic.

Li Lin didn't say much, after all, this would also benefit his plan.

"So, the declaration of war has been completed. When shall we begin our full-scale attack, Master?"

Angela's words immediately created a tense atmosphere in the hall.

A full-scale offensive signifies the complete reappearance of the Magic Empire in the public eye; they are no longer rumors or gossip, but tangible entities that can be seen with one's own eyes. It also means that the Magic Empire is about to emerge from the shadows and reappear in the sunlight.

"When are Nia, Kalin, and Anna coming back?"

Amidst the expectant gazes of the crowd, Li Lin pondered for a moment before finally asking his question.

"It will take some time, but it's not a big problem. They've already collected quite a few relics from the Imperial era... I think they've discovered some rather important things that will greatly help in the revival of the Empire. I'm currently organizing them."

"Oh?"

Hearing Nia say that, Li Lin quickly became interested.

What is it?

"At the previous auction, Anna discovered the Water Elemental Plane, one of the Four Great Elemental Keys."

Upon hearing Nia's answer, Li Lin couldn't hide his surprise and stood up.

"The Water Elemental Plane has been found?"

"Yes, Li Lin. Furthermore, we've already found clues about the Wind and Elemental Plane, but the Earth Elemental Plane remains elusive... However, I think it's only a matter of time before Kalin and Anna find it."

"Very good."

Li Lin nodded, his face still beaming with excitement. In fact, this news was already a rare piece of good news for Li Lin.

During the Magic Empire's era, the four Elemental Plane maintained connections with the Magic Empire. Elemental lords frequently cooperated with Arcane Mage, engaging in substantial exchanges and assistance. However, after the war began, the gates to the four Elemental Plane were Magic Controllers, and the keys to open them vanished without a trace. The Elemental Plane held a special significance for the Magic Empire, as they were the only forces capable of signing treaties and cooperating with these elemental lords. It was precisely for this reason that Li Lin had never given up on his efforts to reopen the Elemental Plane. However, without the Four Great Elemental Keys, no matter how powerful he was, he could not open this passage to the Prime Material Plane. Now, the appearance of the Water Elemental Key was like a shot in the arm for Li Lin.

He then swung his right hand, and with that movement, a massive map slowly appeared in the previously empty air.

"We can no longer wait idly. The sooner we launch our attack, the more initiative we will gain. The full-scale offensive will begin in a month! Nisi! Inform Her Majesty the Queen. She must complete the Weapon Spirit and equipment for at least eight thousand elves within this final month. The First Matriarch should be able to reach over ten thousand. In the first phase of the offensive, we will launch indiscriminate area bombardment with the Jewel of the Goddess. Simultaneously, the elves and Dark Elf will launch surprise attacks from Xialuo and Kudel respectively, to tie down their forces. Angela, I request that you lead the Divine Punishment Legion straight to the capital of the Vila Federation and turn it into a dead city. I will also dispatch the dragons to attack Dideyasi and assist your offensive. As for Lalia..."

As he spoke, Li Lin looked at Angela gave him a cold smile.

"I understand what you mean, master. That female dog will be obedient."

"Hopefully she'll follow our instructions obediently."

Li Lin responded, then looked at everyone present.

"Yi Aier, you must complete the final weapon installation on the airship this month. Suoxiate, whatever intelligence you obtain during this period, you must report it to me. Any other questions?"

"Understood, Master!"

Please leave it to me.

"And books, so, gentlemen..."

With that, Li Lin sat back down in his seat, interlaced his fingers, and with a smug and expectant smile, slowly began to speak.

"Our Magic Empire is finally coming back."

After the strategic meeting ended, everyone immediately left the hall to go about their work. Only Nia remained standing there, watching Li Lin. Angela also did not leave; she glanced at Nia, then at Li Lin, clearly waiting for the show to begin.

"... Nia, shouldn't you be back at work?"

"I have already heard Suoxiate's report on what happened."

Nia answered Li Lin's slightly embarrassed question without hesitation.

"Li Lin, although you ultimately succeeded, you should understand what I'm about to say. Your irresponsible behavior is extremely dangerous, isn't it?"

"There's always a risk involved."

Li Lin sighed.

"My body can't withstand the large-scale battles to come. Something has to be done, Nia. You should understand that I've been waiting, but I've never forgotten my mission. To fulfill the mission I must complete, I will do it without hesitation, no matter the danger or the cost."

"Of course I understand, Li Lin."

Nia walked to Li Lin's side, reached out, and firmly held his hands.

"However, my understanding doesn't mean I agree with your views. Five of the Seven Ring Spirit Envoys are already by your side, so why are you insisting on going your own way? Flesh Reshaping is an extremely dangerous and difficult subject. Have you considered the consequences if it fails? Lady Nisi is still immature as Arcane Mage, yet you are hastily performing such a highly dangerous spell. If we lose you, how will the Magic Empire be rebuilt? And... I don't want to never see you again because of such a possibility."

"I admit my risky behavior was wrong, but..."

At this point, Li Lin was uncharacteristically speechless.

"We always have to take risks, and I assure you, this will be the only time."

"... Just this once."

Nia nodded, released Li Lin's hand, and then took two steps back.

"If there's a next time, I will never forgive you, Li Lin."

"Call..."

After watching Nia's figure leave, Li Lin finally breathed a sigh of relief. Then he reached out and flicked Angela's little head, which had somehow ended up beside him.

"Why are you smiling so strangely? Let me think, it's definitely not because you're about to go on a killing spree."

"I had no idea that you cared so much about Sister Nia's opinion, Master."

Angela squinted, her thoughts unreadable.

"She's just your weapon, isn't she? Even if a weapon can think and speak, it's ultimately just a tool for killing. Why should you care about her thoughts and feelings?"

"I think you already guessed it, which is why you deliberately asked me, right?"

Angela didn't care about Li Lin's answer.

"Of course, after all, you have seen my past. Although there is nothing to hide, shouldn't you let me know your past in return?"

"I'm sorry, I haven't had any experiences like yours in the past."

Thinking of this, Li Lin shook his head with a wry smile. He certainly didn't have a life as "thrilling" as Angela's. On the contrary, although Li Lin had also experienced many life-or-death situations, he still hadn't reached Angela's level. In fact, if anything changed Li Lin's life, his greatest achievement would be creating the "Eternal Library."

That was Li Lin's first time creating a weapon with self-awareness. When he saw the naked girl open her eyes and speak with her own will, the excitement he felt was unforgettable. In fact, he quickly forgot that Nia Li Lin merely a weapon. He took her on adventures, taught her more knowledge and magic, fought alongside her, traveled with her, and taught her to experience various emotions and behaviors. Deep down, Li Lin didn't treat Nia merely as a tool, as Angela had suggested. He treated her more like family than a weapon. Nia accompanied him for a very long time, and during that long period, she awaited his return. Although Li Lin had deep feelings for all seven weapons he created, his feelings for Nia always came first.

"If you're so sure, you can ask Nia."

Angela's eerie smile made Li Lin put aside his memories and throw the question back at him.

"Furthermore, you need to be prepared... You should understand what I mean. Don't be careless, don't underestimate your enemy. Although so far, I don't think anything poses a real threat to you, this isn't Earth after all. And the enemy hasn't gone all out yet, so it's always good to be cautious."

"Please entrust this to me with peace of mind, Master."

Angela nestled in Li Lin's arms, her smile both innocent and cruel.

"I assure you, those lowly reptiles won't have much time left to enjoy peace."