129: Chapter 130 Lilia was tricked

As long as he possessed sufficiently powerful secret realm scrolls, for Lin Muyang, it meant an endless supply of experience, equipment, and skill books.

Therefore, aside from the essential and high-potential origin skill book, obtaining high-quality secret realm scrolls from the National Treasury was undoubtedly the most cost-effective choice that best fit his current needs.

He clicked on the category page for 【Dungeon/secret realm scroll (Permanent/One-time Use)】 and began to browse carefully.

Once the page loaded, the number of scrolls displayed was fewer than he had expected.

However, this was normal; items like secret realm scrolls usually possess unstable "activity" and "time-sensitivity."

Even for an epic-grade secret realm scroll, the micro-space and energy structure sealed within are difficult to maintain for long, usually lasting at most three months.

Once this limit is exceeded, no matter where the scroll is, the monsters sealed within will forcibly break through the spatial constraints and surge out, making it almost impossible to stop.

History has recorded a lesson that was both ridiculous and paid for with a heavy price.

Initially, the officials of Japan were unable to handle an out-of-control legendary-grade secret realm scroll and had the whimsical idea of throwing it into the deep sea, thinking it would solve the problem once and for all.

As a result, after the scroll reached its limit in the deep sea, it shattered, and tens of thousands of ferocious monsters broke free.

Not only did they not get lost in the deep sea, but driven by some instinct, they returned to land and, with astonishing destructive power, successively destroyed two coastal cities in Japan.

In the end, Japan had to pay an astronomical price, urgently seeking aid from various countries, and only by gathering the strength of elite talents from multiple nations were they able to arduously wipe out this monster tide.

Post-incident analysis revealed that the monsters emerging from secret realm scrolls seem to naturally "gravitate" toward the location where the scroll was originally created or discovered.

Since then, countries around the world have completely abandoned the foolish practice of "throwing hot potatoes into the sea," and the management and disposal of secret realm scrolls have become extremely strict.

"As expected, there are no legendary-grade secret realm scrolls available," Lin Muyang said, scanning the list quickly, not surprised.

legendary-grade scrolls are too rare; even if they exist, they are mostly used immediately for strategic reserves or special missions, and it is unlikely they would remain idle in the exchangeable inventory for long.

"However, there are actually two epic-grade ones?" His gaze lingered on two scroll icons emitting a deep purple glow.

The names and basic information of the scrolls were clearly marked, allowing him to roughly understand the types of monsters and the environment within without needing to enter.

"Level 175 epic-grade secret realm—【Frozen Sea】?" Lin Muyang looked at the description of the first scroll and shook his head. "This level is too high; I can't use it for now."

It wasn't that he couldn't beat it. With his current team strength and various Aura, challenging levels above his own was not impossible.

But a level 175 epic-grade secret realm meant that the ordinary mobs inside possessed extremely high stats, and the BOSS had astonishing HP and defense.

Even if he could fight it, the process would be quite tedious and troublesome, with low efficiency.

Furthermore, this was not the fire-attribute secret realm he urgently needed; it could not provide Fire Element Essence, and the ice-attribute equipment and skill books produced would offer limited improvement to his team, making it not very cost-effective.

He turned his gaze to the second scroll.

"Level 72 epic-grade dungeon scroll—【Thunder Tribe】. 4-person scale..." Lin Muyang's eyes lit up. "This level is just right!"

Although it was a Dungeon rather than a wild secret realm, and the scale was only for 4 people, it meant the total number of monsters and BOSS strength might not match a wild epic-grade secret realm of the same level.

But the benefit was that the level matched, and clearing the entire thing would yield considerable experience points.

More importantly, as an epic-grade Dungeon, its loot list would inevitably contain legendary-grade equipment and skill books of the corresponding level, which was exactly what he and the young ladies urgently needed to improve right now.

Unfortunately, this was still not a fire-attribute Dungeon, but the lightning-attribute dominated "Thunder Tribe," which could not resolve his urgent need for the last legendary-grade Fire Element Essence.

"I'll take it first; experience and equipment are always needed." Lin Muyang did not hesitate and clicked the "Apply for Acquisition" button for this 【Thunder Tribe】 scroll.

With this, he had used up two t1 level application opportunities tonight. Looking at the remaining number of epic-grade scrolls on the page, which was zero, he fell into thought.

"In the t1 level National Treasury, are there really so few good things suitable for my current level that I can use directly?" He felt a bit shortchanged.

Using precious t1 level permissions to exchange for epic-grade scrolls that were not his most urgent need seemed not very cost-effective.

It would be better to check the t2 level inventory; there, the number of Emperor Level and Sovereign-rank scrolls should be higher, which would also better fit his need for rapid leveling.

Using the value of one t1 level permission to exchange for items requiring multiple t2 level permissions was clearly more efficient.

He acted on the thought. Lin Muyang picked up his communicator and called Su Qingyue next door, asking if this "cross-level exchange" operation was feasible.

Soon, he received a positive reply from Su Qingyue and learned the specific procedure: he could choose to "exchange" one t1 level free application permission for a certain amount of "National Treasury Contribution Points."

Then, he could use these contribution points to "purchase" multiple items from the t2 level or even lower-level inventory.

Generally speaking, the contribution points exchanged from one t1 level permission were enough to trade for five to six t2 level premium items.

"This mechanism is great! Teacher Su, you've been a huge help!" Lin Muyang thanked her sincerely; now the resource utilization rate would be much higher.

After hanging up, he immediately began operating on the National Treasury terminal.

Soon, he consumed one t1 level permission, converted it into contribution points, and began "sweeping the shelves" in the t2 level 【secret realm scroll】 category.

He carefully selected and eventually used these contribution points to exchange for three Emperor Level secret realm scrolls between levels 65-75, as well as two Sovereign-rank secret realm scrolls of the same level range.

These scrolls had diverse attributes, including Frost Canyon, Gloomy Forest, and Lava Cavern.

"With these, hitting level 70 is absolutely guaranteed!" Lin Muyang looked at the application list, filled with anticipation.

He wished he could fly out immediately, activate these scrolls one by one, and throw himself into the fervent cause of leveling up.

Unfortunately, these requested items needed to go through a delivery process.

However, with his t1 level permission, all items would be delivered uniformly by a dedicated courier with the highest priority.

According to Su Qingyue, they would all be delivered to him by tomorrow morning at the latest.

"Then I'll wait until tomorrow." Lin Muyang suppressed his urge to act immediately. It was the perfect time to use the remaining time tonight to get some good rest and recharge his energy.

The time that followed was filled with a quiet and warm atmosphere of daily life in the villa.

Everyone enjoyed the sumptuous dinner prepared by Elena and relaxed.

Lilia and Seraphina huddled together reading a fairy tale picture book of the Elf Race; Gui Wanwan was still curled up on a soft cushion in the corner, the nether Aura around her flowing slowly, as if she were sleeping or perhaps cultivating;

Feng Ling was engrossed in a book titled "Basic Flame Control Theory," her little face full of seriousness;

Elabess was pulling the somewhat shy Elena aside, seemingly whispering some strange knowledge; Ao Qingyan, that cultivation fanatic, was practicing her swordsmanship outside...

Lin Muyang leaned back on the sofa, watching the figures of the young ladies in the living room, each enjoying themselves, and a warmth welled up in his heart.

"As more and more summoned partners arrive, this villa is becoming increasingly lively; it feels like home."

He looked around. "The rooms are still enough for now. But... once I reach level 100 and the Summoner Competition is settled, perhaps I should consider moving to a more spacious place."

Buying a manor? It seemed a bit cliché, and it would be troublesome to manage.

Or find someone to design and build a castle that perfectly matches his wishes? That idea was not bad.

He could design different functional areas according to the preferences and racial characteristics of each young lady, such as an Elf Garden, a Dragon-kin cultivation ground, a Dark Element Pool, a Light Prayer Room, and so on.

As for the cost... does the current Lin Muyang even need to consider costs?

The three trillion Magic Crystals "moved" from the Vatican were still lying in his storage bracelet, barely touched.

Even if that wasn't enough, with his current strength, taking a tour of the high-risk secret realms and treasure spots of those "unfriendly" countries or factions would likely yield far more than that amount.

[part:gemini-2.5-flash]

"Speaking of which, I asked Su Qingyue to help inquire about large-capacity storage equipment and legendary-grade fire-attribute equipment, but there's been no reply yet..." Lin Muyang suddenly remembered these two troublesome matters, especially the latter, which directly stalled the little Phoenix's crucial step in growth, making him a bit frustrated.

However, he also understood that both items were top-tier scarce resources, valuable but hard to find, so it was normal for official channels to have no leads in a short time. Su Qingyue represented the official government of Xia, possessing information and a channel network far beyond any individual, so he could only wait patiently for her news.

Night fell, and the villa gradually quieted down. Lin Muyang returned to his bedroom and, lulled by Elena's gentle "lullaby," fell into a deep sleep, conserving energy for tomorrow's battles.

Early the next morning, sunlight streamed through the gaps in the curtains, casting bright spots on the floor. Lin Muyang woke up refreshed, feeling better than ever before.

As he was about to get up, he noticed some unusual movement beside him. He turned his head slightly to see the Succubus Maiden Elabess leaning against him, while the Angel Maid Elena was clumsily nestled in her arms, whispering?

Elabess's expression was lazy with a hint of cunning as she quietly instructed, while Elena's sacred face was now flushed with a deep blush.

"Uh..." Lin Muyang was momentarily speechless. This Elabess was truly "tireless in teaching."

However, under the personal demonstration and patient guidance of Elabess, the master, Elena seemed to improve quickly and was soon getting the hang of it.

"Not bad, Elena, you're learning fast." Lin Muyang cleared his throat lightly, breaking the subtle atmosphere with a smile. "At this rate, it won't be long before you 'graduate.'"

Upon hearing this, Elena's blush instantly spread to her earlobes, and she buried her face in Elabess's neck in embarrassment. Elabess, on the other hand, let out a triumphant chuckle and winked at Lin Muyang.

"When we can deeply exchange art together, that would be perfect." A thought flashed through Lin Muyang's mind, then he immediately dismissed it. Currently, that girl Lilia still only accepted the "solo" mode and needed more time to adapt and be guided. The other young ladies had not yet been introduced to this path and could only be brought along slowly.

He got up, went to the kitchen, and brought two cups of warm milk to the two young ladies. As for himself, he picked up a soft white steamed bun from the platter and took a few casual bites.

Just then, the crisp sound of the doorbell rang downstairs.

"Hmm? Has the National Treasury's delivery person arrived? That fast?" Lin Muyang was a bit surprised; it was just after breakfast.

His mind stirred, and he activated Divine Sight. Invisible perception spread out like ripples, instantly covering the entire villa and front yard. In his "God's eye view," an old woman stood at the door, wearing a faded gray cotton jacket, with white hair and a slightly hunched figure. She carried a seemingly ordinary cloth bag and was looking up at the villa's doorplate, like a lost ordinary elder.

However, when Lin Muyang's perception tried to "see through" the old woman's details, the information returned made his heart skip a beat!

Level: 271!

This number was as clear as a brand! How was this an ordinary old woman? This was clearly a terrifyingly high-level, unfathomably powerful reclusive expert! Her level was significantly higher than that of Yue Jiuyang, the Old Sword Saint of Xia he knew!

"My heavens... a delivery person is this fierce?" Lin Muyang secretly gasped. "Could this be a 'Sweeper Monk'-level existence, one of Xia's hidden trump cards?"

But then he thought again, and it seemed reasonable. For the person in charge or core members guarding and delivering the nation's most critical and precious strategic resource library to possess such terrifying strength seemed to be the most powerful guarantee for the safety of the National Treasury.

"Perhaps the entire National Treasury's guardianship and high-level deliveries are handled by beings like her?" Lin Muyang speculated.

He stopped thinking further and gestured for Elabess and Elena to tidy up, while he prepared to go downstairs. However, just as he reached the stairwell, he heard the sound of the door opening downstairs, and Lilia's clear and concerned voice:

"Grandma, what's wrong? Are you lost? Don't worry, come in and sit down first, have a cup of hot water, okay?"

Lin Muyang's steps halted, and a few black lines appeared on his forehead. This silly girl, opening the door to strangers again! And she actually believed the other party's claim of being "lost"?

He hurried downstairs and indeed saw Lilia, with a sympathetic expression, helping the "seemingly" trembling old woman towards the living room.

"Brother Muyang!" Lilia saw Lin Muyang, as if finding her pillar of support, and quickly said, "This grandma seems lost and has been wandering around our doorstep for a long time. Can we help her find her family or take her home?"

Lin Muyang looked at Lilia's innocent, kind face, then at the level 271 expert, who was bowing her head and whose shoulders seemed to be slightly trembling from stifled laughter, and was speechless for a moment.

"Senior," Lin Muyang walked closer, his tone a bit helpless, and said to the old woman, "Isn't it a bit unkind to tease such a pure-minded elf?"

"Hehehe..." The old woman finally couldn't help but laugh out loud, her voice old but full of vigor. She looked up, revealing a wrinkled face with unusually clear and bright eyes, and scrutinized Lin Muyang, her gaze seemingly able to penetrate appearances. "The elf girl truly has a good heart; I was just playing a joke with her. But young man, your little girlfriend is too kind and too trusting of others. She'll suffer losses out there, so you'd better keep a close eye on her."

"???"

Now it was Lilia's turn to be utterly bewildered, her emerald green eyes wide as she looked at the old woman, then at Lin Muyang, her small face instantly turning crimson. "You... you lied to me? You weren't lost at all?"

"I told you before not to casually trust strangers, and especially not to casually open the door to them. Now you know, right?" Lin Muyang walked over to Lilia, and with a helpless yet doting gesture, ruffled her soft golden hair. "This senior is here to deliver something to us. Remember this from now on, okay?"

"Hmph! Sure enough, all humans are big bad guys! Even grandmas lie!" Lilia, both shy and angry, stamped her foot and hid behind Lin Muyang, only peeking out half her head, glaring indignantly at the smiling old woman.

Lin Muyang had a headache but understood. Lilia had grown up in the Elven Royal Court, surrounded by pure and kind kin, never experiencing deceit or betrayal. Her personality was as pure as a blank sheet of paper. What he liked was precisely her untainted purity and beauty. In this world full of schemes and dangers, this innocence was especially precious.

Of course, necessary vigilance still needed to be cultivated. However, Ziyun Mountain Villa had strict security, and ordinary people couldn't get in. After this "lesson," he believed Lilia would be much more cautious in the future.

"Alright, the items have been delivered, and it's time for this old woman to leave." The old woman seemed to have had enough fun, handing the cloth bag to Lin Muyang. "Count them. Two broken books and a few drawn skins are all inside."

Lin Muyang took the cloth bag; it felt light. He quickly opened it and counted: two skill books exuding an ancient Aura (precisely Blurring Shadow and One Sword No Thought), one dark purple epic-level dungeon scroll, and five slightly lighter-colored Emperor Level/Sovereign-rank secret realm scrolls, all accounted for.

"Thank you for personally delivering them, Senior." Lin Muyang put away the items, thanked her politely, and prepared to see her out.

However, the old woman gently pressed one hand against the door that was about to close, while with her other hand, she casually pulled out a seemingly ordinary, dark yellow metal coin with worn edges from her embrace. With a flick of her wrist, the coin arced through the air, flying towards Lin Muyang's face.

"Young man, catch this. Consider it my apology for tricking your little elf, and also... a meeting gift."