Boundless Cultivation-Chapter 63 - An Illusion of Grandeur

Alaric lay sprawled on the scorching desert sand within The Howling Expanse. A ring of dead desert chameleons encircled him, their guts and entrails on full display. Alaric had been navigating zone 4 of the Tutorial Rift for the past two weeks and had become remarkably efficient at slaying these creatures.

Unfortunately, dealing with the giant sandworms was another matter entirely. As if sensing his thoughts, one of them announced its presence. The ground trembled as it burst from the sandy earth, revealing a third of its massive body.

Alaric sprang to his feet and unleashed a fully charged mana blast at its gaping mouth, chipping away a tiny portion of its flesh. It’s not enough. The creature howled in pain and burrowed back into the ground, making a temporary retreat. He clicked his tongue, knowing it would soon resurface, fully healed and ready to devour him.

Their exteriors were shielded by sand-encrusted armor plates that deflected even his mana blasts. Their sole vulnerability lay within their mouths, which split into four sections when they lunged to devour their prey.

The outer edges of their mouths were weaker than their armored bodies but didn’t constitute a significant weakness. Worse still, they could regenerate quickly.

The damage Alaric inflicted on their mouth with mana blasts was akin to pinpricks unless he could strike deep inside their bodies. Pushing these thoughts aside, he resumed his survey of The Howling Expanse.

For the past two weeks, he had been using [Mana Pulse] to map the zone in his mind with meticulous detail. Charting the terrain allowed him to identify the distribution of various foes and strategically choose his battles.

So far, he had divided the region into five segments — four outer zones and one inner core.

The four outer zones stretched endlessly, each harboring distinct habitats of desert monsters. The inner core was dotted with shimmering golden pyramids, dominated by a colossal black pyramid at its center. There was no doubt in his mind that the boss monster awaited him there.

Alaric knew he wouldn’t stand a chance against the boss if he couldn’t even defeat the sandworms — and they weren’t even elites. Yet, he couldn’t quell his curiosity about what lay inside the pyramids.

No, he already had a hunch about what he would find and merely wanted to confirm it. If he failed to slay the boss, he could always return and try again.

But first, he intended to finish exploring The Howling Expanse. Not entirely, of course. By now, he suspected that this zone was somehow limitless. The only reason to venture into the outer zones was to level up his skills and sharpen his combat abilities.

To conquer the zone, he only needed to clear the inner core and defeat the boss monster. Yet, he felt an inexplicable pull toward the black pyramid. Determined to satisfy his curiosity, he set off toward that ominous structure.

***

Alaric was mesmerized by the beauty of The Howling Expanse as he neared its center. A light sandstorm whipped sand against his face at a relentless pace as he pressed forward. The occasional glint of light reflecting off the golden pyramids guided his path.

[Mana Pulse] hummed in the background, mapping the terrain and alerting him to any monsters plotting an ambush. He remained hyper-aware of his surroundings, prepared to strike down any foolish creature that dared to challenge him.

Oddly enough, no monsters appeared, which unsettled him. The enormous black pyramid loomed into view through the swirling sand, towering over the surrounding pyramids.

Its cracked obsidian walls seemed to devour the light around them. It beckoned him forward, emanating a foreboding aura. Alaric’s lips curled into a smirk. All signs pointed to one thing.

Hah… so the boss already knows I’m coming. Alaric chuckled. Well, so be it. I will not back down. Eager to confront whatever awaited him, he activated [Zen Flow], sharpening his focus even further. [Mana Strengthening] has been running for a while now.

As he stepped into the dilapidated pyramid, the very first thing he noticed was the horrid stench that wafted through the air. The dusty floors were cracked, and ancient walls stood half-collapsed, as if they would crumble with a single touch.

The light of the sun couldn’t penetrate the gloom inside. Alaric’s senses were on high alert. Goosebumps prickled his skin as the temperature plummeted. Unfazed, he advanced, fully prepared to face whatever the boss was ready to dish out.

Suddenly, a wave of intense grey energy rippled through the air, engulfing the entire pyramid. The ancient, decaying stone walls and floor shimmered and transformed before his very eyes. The stench of decay vanished, replaced by the faint scent of exotic incense.

The air turned warm and inviting. Soft, melodious music floated through the air, accompanied by distant laughter. The once-dusty corridor now gleamed with polished marble floors, layered with luxurious crimson carpets embroidered with golden patterns.

The walls, once scarred by time and erosion, now stood smooth and immaculate, draped with intricate tapestries depicting heroic conquests. Ornate braziers crackled with golden flames, bathing the hallway in a warm, ethereal glow.

What in the world… What’s going on? Alaric hadn’t expected such a lavish reception from his dangerous host. He burst into laughter. It seems this entity has a sense of humor. Alaric ventured deeper into the boss’s lair, trying to figure out what game his enemy was playing.

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Servants stood at attention at every corner, clad in fine linen robes tied with golden sashes. Their faces were serene, eyes respectfully downcast as they awaited orders.

He was impressed by the natural grace of their movement. So silent and efficient, that it was easy to forget they even existed. some polished statues of ancient gods, while others rearranged decorative objects — vases brimming with lotus blossoms, gem-encrusted artifacts, and polished mirrors — into other rooms.

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None of these figures paid any attention to him. Eventually, Alaric arrived at the great hall of the king. It was a majestic chamber of breathtaking splendor, supported by towering pillars that soared into vaulted ceilings. Drapes of vibrant silk cascaded from the walls, rippling gently as if caressed by an invisible breeze.

A multitude of people animated the ancient hall with bustling activity. Maids, dancers, guests, soldiers, ministers, and royal advisors flowed through the great hall, each absorbed in their respective duties.

And at the heart of it all stood a throne of solid gold encrusted with jewels, upon which sat a figure radiating charm and authority.

The figure appeared beyond majestic, his broad shoulders and regal posture exuding power, his chin held high with dignified confidence.

A magnificent crown rested upon his head, shaped like a golden sun disk with serpentine motifs coiling around it. In his right hand, he gripped a long, intricately carved scepter topped with a radiant crystal orb.

Alaric froze as the ancient king locked eyes with him, a knowing smile curling on his lips.

Warning - You are in the presence of the Ancient Pharaoh - Anu-Khepra-Ra. Heed your manners and proceed with caution.

He didn’t need a warning to grasp the gravity of the situation. Everything would be fine right until the king suddenly commanded his capture. Alaric trusted his abilities but not enough to confront an entire army just yet.

Fortunately, the king showed no signs of animosity yet. In fact, he hadn’t even summoned him. Seizing the opportunity, Alaric surveyed his surroundings. Every detail could prove crucial if things turned sour.

Before the throne, dancers twirled gracefully to the rhythm of ancient melodies, their slender figures draped in flowing skirts of translucent silk. Golden anklets and bracelets chimed softly with their fluid movements. Their eyes, outlined in kohl, held mysterious and inviting gazes as they swayed to the music.

Maids glided elegantly among the guests, balancing silver trays piled high with luscious fruits—dates, figs, grapes, and pomegranates. Delicate pastries dusted with honey and exotic spices were presented with demure smiles, their intoxicating scents blending with the fragrant incense spiraling through the air.

Soldiers clad in bronze armor stood vigilant along the walls, their faces stoic and resolute. Their spears glistened under the torchlight. Near the throne, generals and royal advisors murmured in low, respectful tones, their faces stern and dignified.

The more Alaric observed, the more he became captivated by the vivid illusion. It felt as though he had been transported back in time to the golden age of a long-forgotten era. A servant approached him and respectfully requested Alaric to follow.

He was led through the bustling crowd to a private chamber. Soft cushions were piled high on the floor, forming a luxurious seating arrangement. A low, gold-trimmed table stood at the center, laden with an assortment of delicacies.

Bowls of dried fruits and nuts, golden goblets brimming with sweet wine, and plates of roasted meats seasoned to perfection awaited him. In the middle of the table rested an ornate hookah, its glass base filled with perfumed water, gently bubbling as scented smoke curled upward.

The Pharaoh entered the chamber flanked by two guards and gracefully settled into his seat, gesturing for Alaric to do the same with a warm smile. The Pharaoh lounged leisurely and reached for the hookah. It gurgled rhythmically as he inhaled deeply, releasing a fragrant cloud of smoke that spiraled lazily toward the ceiling.

So, you are in no hurry to address me? Alaric grinned. Now that he was closer, he noticed the Pharaoh’s flawlessly handsome face, seemingly untouched by the passage of time. High cheekbones and piercing eyes complemented the perpetual smile on his lips.

Alaric decided to play along. Since the king showed no intention of initiating the conversation, he took the initiative.

“I must commend the lavish welcome, Your Grace,” Alaric remarked with a respectful bow.

The king’s smile widened knowingly. He waved a hand, inviting Alaric to relax, and casually popped a grape into his mouth. After several moments, he responded with amusement, “I was curious to see a system-blessed with my own eyes.”

Alaric’s eyebrows shot up. How does he know that I’m an ally of the system? Can he read my status screen? Outwardly, he maintained a calm facade and responded, “I’m not sure what you mean, Your Highness.”

“I’d prefer it if you spoke plainly, outworlder,” the Pharaoh said, his knowing smile never wavering as he adjusted the gem-encrusted rings on his fingers. “You have nothing to fear in my presence. I could even be your ally.” He laughed mockingly, the sound echoing through the chamber.

The gears in Alaric’s mind began to spin. It was clear that this ancient being not only understood his connection to the system but also knew about his rebirth into this world. How interesting. I wonder what else he knows.

Alaric picked up a roasted chicken leg, tore off a piece, and chewed thoughtfully as he organized his thoughts.

“How do you know these details about me? And why did you invite me here?”

“I am Anu-Khepra-Ra—the Immortal King, cursed to know everything under the sun,” the Pharaoh declared, his voice tinged with bitterness as he sipped from his jeweled goblet. “If only I could share all the secrets with you, you’d realize that *** df* **Fd **gh d ***f.”

What the…? Alaric’s vision blurred as a wave of grogginess enveloped his mind, causing his surroundings to flicker, momentarily shattering the meticulously crafted illusion. He felt his memories of the last few seconds slipping away.

Mentally roaring in defiance, he activated his sacral chakra, channeling its power to fortify his mind and dispel the insidious force invading his consciousness. Focus! Don’t lose your train of thought. After a tense struggle, he successfully resisted the power attempting to manipulate his mind.

A shadow crossed his face as realization dawned on him. It was the system, attempting to hide restricted information. Alaric wiped the sweat off his face with a smile. He had won, this time.

“As for why I summoned you,” the king remarked, his gaze drifting to the lone window that framed a distant pyramid. “Not everyone is fortunate enough to become an ally of the system. You must’ve accomplished something remarkable to earn such a blessing.” His voice dripped with mockery.

“Is that the only reason you invited me?”

“Why the rush?” the king drawled, deliberately stalling as he drained the last of his wine. He straightened and tapped his fingers rhythmically on the table. “Tell me, how does the prospect of gaining wealth beyond your wildest dreams sound?” He gestured for a maid to refill his goblet.

Alaric remained quiet, paying rapt attention. The same old lure of treasure and wealth. Let’s see what you really have to offer.

Noticing Alaric’s unimpressed demeanor, the king pressed on, “What about achieving immortality?”

Alaric smirked but didn’t speak a word yet. You’ll need to do better than that to trap me.

The king’s eyes gleamed as he leaned in, his voice lowering conspiratorially, “Or perhaps… uncovering one of the system’s most closely guarded secrets?”

Alaric’s eyebrows knitted together as the king’s lips curled into a victorious smile. Alright, now you’ve piqued my interest. Let’s see what’s on the table.