-778- [ Lemegeton ]

"Buzz..."

The dense magical power gathers at the headmaster's fingertips. He extends his finger, gliding through the air, turning the trajectory into beams of light, forming a magic array.

"Magic array?"

Rozen feels somewhat surprised. In this world, traditional magic has been completely replaced by Machinart, so it's unexpected that the strongest magus of the 19th century would use magic in such an ancient way, creating a sense of astonishment.

Of course, the headmaster is not using complex magic at the moment; otherwise, it would be impossible to complete it in such a short time. Traditional magic is abandoned because it is cumbersome and time-consuming, replaced by Machinart.

Currently, the headmaster is only using a small magic to summon stored items. Under this magic's effect, a thick book appears at the center of the magic array.

"That is..."

Rozen's eyes slightly narrow. With the ability of Mind's Eye, he discerns the true nature of the book.

"Grimoire..."

Yes, not just a magic book but a Grimoire—a magical tool, a book that is magic in itself. On the cover of this Grimoire are various patterns and designs familiar to Rozen.

Those patterns and designs are specifically used for summoning.

In other words, this book in front of him is a "Summoning Grimoire."

As soon as these words are spoken, regardless of others, the headmaster holding the Grimoire nods appreciatively.

"Exactly."

The headmaster raises the Grimoire in his hand.

"This is a treasure written by a great magus from the future, containing a vast collection of his lifetime achievements. It's an automaton puppet summoning catalog. Although many have been lost or even plundered, this book still preserves over fifty legendary-level automatic puppets. Its name is—'Lemegeton.'"

———'Lemegeton.'

This name might not be very familiar to many, but if its formal name is mentioned, many will recognize its existence.

———'Lesser Key of Solomon.'

The legendary demonic book held by Solomon, the ancient king of Israel, used to summon the seventy-two pillars of demons.

In this world, such a demonic book has been reproduced. However, its purpose is not to summon the seventy-two pillars of demons but to summon legendary-level automatic puppets created by imitating the seventy-two pillars.

"The great magus, using a cosmic truth-level magic that could traverse time and space, sent this summoning catalog to the past, into this era.

The headmaster began to emit magical energy—like a wild wind, like turbulent waves—a terrifying magic that filled everyone around, leaving them with shocked expressions.

However, the headmaster himself stated, 'If it's only magic, skills, talents, and knowledge, I wouldn't admit defeat to anyone. But that doesn't make me the strongest. In this world, there are several who can rival me.'

The headmaster raised the magical book in his hand. 'Because I possess this book, which can command fifty mythological demons, I am called the strongest.'

Saying this, the floating book, 'Lemegeton,' in front of the headmaster suddenly stopped flipping.

"Clang!"

A brilliant light burst forth from the pages, illuminating the surroundings. The light formed an elegant staircase rising from behind the headmaster, extending upward. A red carpet appeared on the steps, leading to a throne adorned with gold and silver treasures.

Sitting on the throne was a beautiful queen—a face with perfect features, eyes that seemed to disdain everything, covered only in a thin white silk, with hands and feet adorned with several golden rings.

"Queen..."

"Goddess..."

"Oh God..."

The students, professors, and guards around were all dumbfounded. Even Avril, holding her breath, and the automatic puppet of the team showed astonishment.

Even Magnus stared intently at the queen sitting on the throne, speaking with a tone full of reverence.

"The 29th of the 72 Pillars of Demons, Grand Duchess—Astaroth."

She is one of the 72 demons mentioned in 'The Lesser Key of Solomon,' taking inspiration from the legend of the fertility goddess Ishtar in the ancient Babylonian kingdom. A highly famous demon, commanding forty legions, her name is even recorded in the demon catalog of the 'Pseudo-Enoch Book,' earning her many aliases.

Now, the automaton symbolizing that mythological demon has been summoned, overlooking everything below with a regal gaze, like a true queen.

The headmaster, treating her as a genuine queen, stood below the staircase, respectfully bowing to Astaroth above.

"Thank you for gracing us with your presence, great queen."

The headmaster displayed great respect and admiration towards the automaton he had summoned.

Amidst the astonished gazes of students, professors, and guards, Astaroth naturally accepted the homage from her puppeteer, turning her attention to him.

"Edward, isn't it?" Astaroth revealed a captivating smile, her tone arrogant. "How long has it been since you encountered a situation that required summoning me?"

"O queen, it has probably been several years." The headmaster, maintaining respect, also smiled and said, "Although I wish to stand independently of the queen's influence, I am not mature enough, which is quite frustrating."

"Nonsense," Astaroth dismissed. "You've already been adorned with the pretentious title of the strongest of the 19th century. Still claiming immaturity? Isn't it just that you want to use my legion?"

"Can't hide anything from the queen." The headmaster turned his gaze to Astaroth, sincerely saying, "Please summon your legion here and display your majesty."

"Very well. Since my legion consists of a whopping forty, deploying one is hardly worth mentioning." Astaroth turned her gaze forward, saying, "And then? Is the opponent that little devil who's been casting unpleasant glances at me since a while ago?"

Astaroth's words left everyone present momentarily stunned, and then they realized.

They discovered Rozen staring at Astaroth, his face devoid of any smile, his eyes revealing a hint of icy coldness.

That expression was as if he had seen something displeasing.

"Apologies, but my impression of the so-called 72 Pillars of Demons is not favorable. It always brings to mind a disgusting flesh pillar and a repugnant cuckold." Rozen spoke lightly.

"So, if we're going to fight, come quickly."

"Otherwise, I'm afraid I won't be able to control myself and charge up first."