Chapter 43

Chapter 43

[Adjusting the Fallen Star Pendant's runic inscriptions, increasing illusory runes for Host compatibility with its control.]

The A.I. Chip's voice resonated at that precise moment.

Cerulean light flickered across Ron's eyes, and an array of transparent patterns emerged on the surface of the Fallen Star Pendant.

Now, he needed to follow the modifications outlined by the transparent patterns etched on the pendant's surface. The A.I. Chip would aid him during the inscription process to prevent errors.

Ron delicately positioned the Fallen Star Pendant on a white cloth, and with a sturdy inscription pen in hand, he began the meticulous carving on the pendant's surface. His hand was unwavering, displaying immense precision and stamina, despite the immense focus and time it consumed.

As time elapsed, beads of perspiration trickled down Ron's forehead.

"The Fallen Star Pendant's runic modification is a success! It now boasts additional fortified runes, energy dissipation runes, and extension runes," the A.I. Chip reported, drawing a smile from Ron.

Without delay, he reached for another inscription pen. This one sported grooves along its body, similarly robust and steady.

"Next, I'll infill these etchings!" Ron ignited two beakers, melting the materials he had previously extracted from the magic artifacts. Both beakers contained liquid exclusively.

Following a precise ratio, Ron blended the two liquids. He adjusted the pen's grooves, revealing a reservoir for the silvery-black liquid. As he poured the concentrated substance into the pen, intricate runes shimmered around the inscription pen, emitting an enchanting glow.

Ron was pleased with the result as he applied the pen to the previous carvings, filling each notch of the inscription. Completing the final stroke, he inspected the pendant and nodded with satisfaction.

"Activate!" Ron recited two words in the ancient Byron language.

*Pong!* A cylindrical gray beam emanated from the pendant, and threads of silver light coursed through the runic inscriptions, brightening as they encompassed the Fallen Star Pendant. When the light vanished, the pendant had undergone a complete transformation.

It retained the cross shape but had become bulkier and dark red in color. Its surface bore intricate and detailed rune inscriptions that concealed the original gem fragments.

Ron held the dark red Fallen Star Pendant, noting its increased weight.

"Now, for the final step."

Seated cross-legged, Ron channeled the "sentient force" absorbed after defeating Jayden into the Fallen Star Pendant. Although the quantity was limited, Ron employed it to establish a network of seven Meridian points within the pendant, connecting them to his Dantian. This ensured that only he could truly wield the Fallen Star Pendant.

As he advanced, the pendant would evolve in tandem, with Ron only needing to upgrade its materials to unleash its full potential.

[Beep! The Fallen Star Pendant has successfully upgraded with the middle-grade magic artifacts! Current Physical Defense: 28, Magic Defense: 29!] The A.I. Chip's announcement brought Ron good news.

"Physical defense increased from 13 to 28, and magic defense rose from 15 to 29! Impressive progress!" Ron was delighted with the results, though he knew further improvements were attainable.

"In the South Coast, acolytes employ beginner-grade magic artifacts, level 1 Magi use middle-grade artifacts with occasional use of beginner-grade ones, while only powerful level 2 Magi can access high-grade magic artifacts!"

The Fallen Star Pendant emitted a faint squeak, endearing it to Ron. He stroked it gently, turning it upside down and connecting the Meridian points to his Dantian. Pulsing with energy, the pendant transformed into a sharp, silvery sword with deadly edges.

Ron commanded it to revert to an armor, imbuing him with an indestructible appearance. He honed his proficiency with the pendant, converting it into a dagger, glove, and even a gun. Ron marveled at the incredible weapon's potential.

...

In the main hall, Ron reclined in his chair, overseeing his obedient slaves, each bearing the "Seal of Lucifer." This seal bound them entirely to him, with no room for betrayal, lest their souls detonate.

Ron employed the seal for communication and surveillance, granting them a rudimentary version of "Saint Knight" meditation techniques to bolster their rapid development, approaching the peak of Rank 1 Magi. Nevertheless, Ron knew they would eventually plateau without the ability to form their own Meridians.

Anna, in particular, had reached the pinnacle of Rank 1, but Ron contemplated their worth.

"Strength equivalent to the peak of Rank 1, that's their limit. I can enhance them further, but is it worth the effort?"

Ron acknowledged their loyalty, but he had the means to secure new and more talented individuals and make them loyal using the seal. Though consent was typically required, he could find a solution one way or another.

"Prepare the carriage. We're leaving this place permanently," Ron ordered. He had different plans for them, not merely casting them aside. While not a benevolent master, he wasn't ruthless either. In a world where human life, especially that of a slave, held little value, Ron had other uses in mind for his servants.