Chapter 549: Divine War

"Then, Professor, can you tell me what kind of person Rafat de Robespierre is, and what forbidden spells and divine powers he possesses? I need detailed information about this man, the more detailed the better."

Li Mochen completely relaxed after learning that Michel and the Dragon Witch Cult would need at least half a year to complete their preparations.

——That much time was enough for many things to happen, including his own ascension to Legend. Or it could be used to acquire the buildings and properties needed for the pentagram array, indirectly blocking Michel.

So he turned his attention back to Jennifer's matter.

Rafat de Robespierre, who shared the same surname as the killer from the French Revolution, was the culprit who had abducted Jennifer and one of the six true mages in America besides the liches.

"Rafat? Are you planning to cause trouble for him? For Jennifer?"

Professor Einstein looked at Li Mochen in surprise: "Are you serious? This is another matter that brings you no benefit. As things stand, he is on the same side as you. Moreover, from what I know, your sister is doing quite well now. Your grandfather has undoubtedly made a good move."

"I don't agree with Conshil's approach. I have my own way of dealing with enemies."

Li Mochen replied expressionlessly: "Just tell me everything about Rafat de Robespierre."

"Alright, since you insist."

Professor Einstein puffed on his pipe, blowing smoke: "Overall, he is a man of infinite potential, extremely proud, and narrow-minded. As a mage, he is very young, not yet sixty, with talent surpassing even your grandfather. He is also the youngest of the six existing mages in America. His forbidden spells are 'Matter Annihilation' and 'Divine Flame of Destruction,' along with 'Mass Transmutation,' and his divine powers are 'Destruction' and 'Erasure.' He is like a god of destruction. Both his forbidden spells and divine powers have immense destructive force and very high rank."

"Some suspect he had a fortuitous encounter in his youth, receiving a gift from some ancient deity, which allowed him, a commoner, to become a demigod mage at forty-five. I personally agree with that speculation, but his talent is indeed unquestionable—top-tier. I have high hopes for him; within a hundred years at most, he will catch up to me. In fact, his magic tower has already reached twenty stories. If not for the fact that his divine powers and forbidden spells are unrelated to the path of the Goddess of Magic, he would be the one she fears most."

Li Mochen frowned. These were details Clark Banfield hadn't grasped; the latter only knew that Robespierre's revealed forbidden spell was 'Matter Annihilation.' It seemed this visit was worthwhile.

This young mage was far more powerful than he had imagined.

A demigod at forty-five—Wen Jian Taoran could never match that. Of course, that was also due to the spiritual energy depletion and lower power level in the Primordial Dome.

"—How narrow-minded is he? One of my students once scored higher on a mathematics paper, and he targeted him. He insisted on competing academically, no matter what topic my student researched, he would jump out to nitpick or even publish opposing articles to refute him."

"But he is still a rule-abiding person. No matter how angry he gets, he rarely uses means outside the rules, so he has a decent reputation in the Magic Association. Although his forbidden spells are very violent, he himself is surprisingly not fond of fighting or using force against others. Of course, that doesn't mean others can provoke him at will."

"The reason he feuded with Edmund was because the latter snatched an ancient ruin that should have belonged to him and nearly killed Rafat de Robespierre. Given his personality, the consequences were predictable. Since Rafat became a mage, Edmund hasn't had a single peaceful day. It wasn't until recently, when Edmund stole your sister's important talent, that Rafat gained the upper hand."

"I also participated in designing his magic tower. Due to the terms I signed with him, I cannot disclose the tower's specific structure. However, from what I know, the tower's construction drew on the wisdom of an ancient mage who also possessed the divine power of 'Destruction.' By the way, this grand library of mine contains all magical literature from the Bright World, including a complete version of the 'Dead Sea Scrolls.'"

Li Mochen caught the hint and continued to ask: "I will try diplomacy first, but if it comes to a fight, Professor, do you have any advice?"

"This—"

Professor Einstein fell into thought: "Fight at close range as much as possible; don't let him create distance. That's your forte, right? Fortunately, although he has been studying void techniques recently, he hasn't reached the level of a void warlock. Also, if you really have to fight, it's best to beat him into submission. Only then will he obey. He is narrow-minded, but when faced with someone stronger, he knows when to yield. Otherwise, he will pester you endlessly and give you a headache."

As he spoke, he waved his pipe, and countless pages appeared before Li Mochen.

"Look! These are papers written by Rafat. Since he lost badly to me in a bet twenty-two years ago, I've required him to submit a high-quality paper every month—meeting the standards of top academic journals like 'Magic Association Journal,' 'Nature,' 'Science,' and 'Proceedings of the American Academy of Sciences.' He has kept his promise. You can read them to understand his achievements in magic."

Li Mochen would certainly examine them carefully, and Einstein's words led him to a new decision.

"Professor, could I ask for another favor this time? Of course, I remember you said you wouldn't directly intervene. But this time, the scale of my battle with him might be uncontrollable, and the commotion might be a bit large—"

"You mean for me to seal the void? No problem, A Mo."

Professor Einstein smiled: "Then as compensation, would you allow me and my three disciples to observe the battle? A battle at the level of a lesser or even near-intermediate deity would be very important for their future. Of course, I'll have them keep your secret."

...

Li Mochen spent a full twelve hours in Bethel Einstein's magic tower before finishing the materials the professor had provided.

Afterward, Li Mochen went alone to the skies above San Francisco and waited quietly.

Rafat de Robespierre's magic tower was nearby; Li Mochen needed some time to pinpoint its exact location. He was also waiting for his 'Destiny's Domain' and his secondary body to arrive.

The magic tower traveled quite fast, especially his 'Destiny's Domain,' which was built with extremely luxurious materials and a nearly perfect magical array. But from Atlanta on the East Coast to San Francisco on the West Coast, 'Destiny's Domain' would still take fifteen or sixteen hours.

At that moment, Angela had just returned to Atlanta.

"Everything that needed to be restored has been restored. I don't know if Michel will notice, but I've done my best."

"Don't worry, Angie."

During the call, Li Mochen could tell that the girl was trying to sound calm, but her words revealed her current state of agitation and confusion.

"I've consulted Professor Einstein. He said Michel is planning something and won't be ready for at least half a year. We still have time, Angie."

"Half a year?"

Angela visibly relaxed, then raised her voice: "A Mo! I've thought it over. We must stop him; we can't let him do this."

"Stop him? Are you sure?"

"Of course I'm sure!"

Angela was displeased: "A Mo, this isn't like you! I've guessed what my father intends to do. I know he's in pain, but our pain shouldn't affect others, right? If he really goes through with it, then to those involved, what's the difference between us and demons? No matter what, you have to help me this time!"

A smile tugged at the corner of Li Mochen's mouth. This was indeed the woman he had chosen.

"And the consequences? Michel might die, and then his enemies will come knocking one by one."

He was annoyed by Professor Einstein's probing, but now he was using similar words on Angela. Still, the question had to be asked; Angela's stance on this matter would determine his next course of action.

"I know, I know, A Mo. But if this sin happens, everything will be irreparable."

Angela's voice dimmed: "I will take responsibility. This is also something my father must bear."

"Don't be so pessimistic, Angie."

Li Mochen laughed heartily, his voice clear: "This isn't an unsolvable problem. Let's talk when I get back to Atlanta. Angie, promise me you won't act rashly without my consent. Trust me!"

At that moment, a glint flashed in Li Mochen's eyes.

His mage tower, 'Destiny's Domain,' had arrived in San Francisco.

Li Mochen did not disturb his secondary body, which was forging a mythical weapon on the seventh floor of the tower. Instead, he simply reached out, summoning the 'Scarlet Dragon Armor' across the void, which then split into dozens of components and quickly covered his body.

The 'Five Elements' external elixir floated behind him, radiating white, cyan, black, red, and yellow spiritual lights.

"I'm counting on you, Professor!"

"Go ahead—"

From the void, Professor Einstein's voice replied calmly: "Since I've given my word, even if your battle destroys this city of San Francisco, no one will know what happened here."

By then, Li Mochen was already riding the small dragon vein through the void. About ten seconds later, he arrived before a magic tower with a vast demiplane, located in the planar gap between the material world and the Astral Plane.

The tower stood twenty stories tall, its magical radiance dominated by red and gray—colors that in magical knowledge often symbolized the power of destruction and ruin.

Li Mochen did not act rashly. He observed and peered carefully outside the demiplane, then compared the tower with a blueprint he had seen at Einstein's, attempting to analyze its structure and note the similarities and differences.

But after just one minute, a young figure in an embroidered gold robe projected before him.

As in the photos Li Mochen had seen, the man had a movie-star face and wore silver-rimmed glasses, giving him a scholarly, refined air.

However, the words that came out of his mouth were far from polite.

"I know you. You're that Andre Li Wieldenstein. Have you seen enough, you bastard?"

"Rafat de Robespierre, you should have guessed why I'm here?"

As Li Mochen spoke, he fixed his gaze on the man before him. This was not a magical projection but Robespierre himself.

"Guessed it—"

Robespierre sneered: "It's for your sister Jennifer, isn't it? You put on that mythical armor, ready to fight me? That minute outside, were you trying to analyze the structure of my tower?"

He lifted his chin, his tone arrogant: "Listen here, Jennifer's little brother. Your current strength surprises me a bit, but you don't have the capital to act arrogantly in front of me. For Jennifer's sake, I'll forgive your offense this time. And rest assured, that woman is well treated here. I'm not Edmund; I won't do anything to her."

Li Mochen carefully observed the man's expression and tone, then believed his words.

This was indeed an arrogant man, too proud to lie to him—but that fact did not affect his decision to take Jennifer back.

"As you can see, I am indeed prepared for battle. Since I've come here, I must take her away. Mr. Robespierre, I am grateful for your care of Jennifer during this time. Now, please grant her freedom."

Robespierre's eyes narrowed.

"Kid, do you know what you're doing? I show you kindness, and you trample my goodwill into the mud!"

"Kindness? That's your own fantasy."

Li Mochen's expression was calm, and at that moment, his 'Destiny's Domain' was slowly approaching from three hundred kilometers away.

Though only eight stories tall, the tower's magical radiance was equally brilliant, not overshadowed by Robespierre's mage tower, 'Scepter of Destruction.'

"We share a common enemy; there's no need to settle disputes through battle. But if there is no other choice, I will not hesitate."

Robespierre's face twisted, as if both angry and amused: "I wonder, does Conshil know about this? That woman Jennifer is safest with me!"

"Perhaps?"

Li Mochen shrugged: "Conshil cannot influence my decisions. I only know that this is not Jennifer's own wish. Release her, Robespierre, unless you want to fight me."

"Bullshit! Are you forcing me to beat you up?"

The young mage cursed, his eyes flashing with malice and anger, yet for some reason, he hesitated.

After a long moment, Robespierre snorted coldly and waved his ruby staff, projecting a magical image between them.

Inside was a girl wearing medieval armor, practicing swordsmanship in a spacious hall. Her opponent was a magically created 'construct puppet,' quite powerful, its sword strikes swift as the wind, forcing the girl to defend passively, her face covered in sweat.

She soon noticed something unusual and immediately looked toward them.

"Rafat? What's the matter? Huh? Andre? Why are you here?"

Hearing this voice full of surprise, the corner of Li Mochen's mouth twitched. The address was very intimate!

And to think the original Li Mochen had been worried sick for half a year—

"Your little brother here wants to take you away. For your sake, I don't want to solve this with violence."

Robespierre's face was cold and expressionless: "Tell him your current situation."

"I'm fine!"

Jennifer Wieldenstein didn't fully understand the situation, but she quickly caught on. A complex look flashed in her eyes—shock, disbelief, but also a trace of relief and joy.

"Everything is fine here. There's no need to worry, A Mo. Robespierre has taken good care of me and hasn't harmed me in any way."

Li Mochen stared fixedly at the image, confirming that the figure inside was genuine—it was indeed Jennifer Wieldenstein herself.

"Jennifer, I have always believed in Mr. Robespierre's character."

Seeing the young mage proudly lift his chin, Li Mochen couldn't help but laugh inwardly.

"But that has nothing to do with your personal freedom, does it? Unless you tell me you are here willingly, without any coercion. Willing to be under his protection, to become a tool for him to retaliate against his enemies, to accept his charity and pity."

Jennifer's expression changed slightly, but after glancing back and forth between the two, she replied calmly: "YES! Andre, I am here willingly. Don't worry about me."

"Satisfied now?"

Robespierre sneered: "If you have nothing else to say, then get lost! I'm sick of looking at you right now. I have the urge to punch you."

"Then you don't have to hold back, Mr. Robespierre."

Li Mochen carefully observed Jennifer's eyes and expression, then with a wave of his right hand, a blue-green scabbard resembling a Tang sword suddenly appeared in his grasp.

This was one of the spoils he had obtained not long ago in the Battle of Rocher Canyon. It was also the only one among those six fifth-level holy artifacts that required no modification as a holy artifact armament.

It was a weapon forged by an alchemist who favored Eastern samurai culture, named 'Sakura Blood.' It possessed not only extreme sharpness but also the ultimate conceptual domains of 'Piercing' and 'Inevitable Severance,' both exceedingly rare.

Li Mochen was not skilled in using the Tang sword, but he had a solid foundation in the advanced abilities of these two domains from his time as Wenjian Taoran.

Especially the former, which as a master of the art of sword control, he could never afford to abandon.

Thus, for Li Mochen at present, this Eastern blade was worth no less than a mythical armament.

Moreover, in the way of combat and martial arts, all variations stem from the same root; mastering one principle leads to mastery of all. Even though Li Mochen had never studied it, he could still display an extremely high level of swordsmanship.

"I've changed my mind. Whether Jennifer is willing to leave here or not, I still have to fight you."

The young mage was stunned, bewildered for a moment, then a blaze of anger ignited in his eyes: "Are you serious? I won't hold back!"

Jennifer's face also changed: "Andre, are you crazy? I told you, I'm fine here. I don't plan to leave anytime soon."

"This has nothing to do with you anymore, Jennifer!"

Li Mochen's lips curled slightly, a smile spreading across his face: "I just find this guy annoying. Didn't he want to give me a beating? I'll grant his wish. You can go back now, Mr. Robespierre. It's clear you haven't prepared. I'll give you three minutes, that's fine, right? Don't complain when you lose."

In fact, he also needed three minutes to fully analyze the structure of this 'Scepter of Destruction.'

At this moment, nearly sixty thousand strands of merit spiritual light on the 'Divine Fortune Purple-Gold Tower' were rapidly being consumed.

"Ignorant fool! Having obtained a mythical armament, you've lost your senses."

Robespierre let out a sneer, snapped his fingers, and his entire body dissolved into magical light: "For Jennifer's sake once more, today I'll only use thirty percent of my power. I'll wait for you on the tenth floor of the magic tower, to show you the true meaning of power."

Li Mochen made no comment, but his 'Sakura Blood Blade' slowly slid from its scabbard. The sliver of cold light that emerged from the sheath had already dispelled all the surrounding magical radiance.

...

"Whoa, this has turned into a family drama soap opera."

A bit earlier, atop Bethel Einstein's 'Supreme Truth' magic tower, another young mage let out a mocking laugh: "What's this? A war between a prospective brother-in-law and his sister's boyfriend?"

Another mage, with a more steady demeanor and appearance, rubbed his chin: "Indeed, it's incredible. Wasn't there always a rumor that Robespierre had issues with his sexual orientation? It's rare to see him so patient with a woman, even cordial. Could this be Conshuri's real scheme?"

"I guess this is an unexpected turn for him too."

The young mage shook his head: "But if Robespierre truly chooses Jennifer as his partner, then the Wiltonshire family has hit the jackpot. They could now call themselves a supreme family. I bet this fight won't happen. You made me waste a full two hours for nothing, Teacher Einstein."

Bethel Einstein smiled, still puffing on his pipe without a word, blowing smoke rings around a round table.

"Your understanding of Andre is too one-sided, Senior Drew!"

This was a woman; if Li Mochen were here, he would recognize her as his acquaintance, Ms. Christie Blade, Vice President of the New World Magic Association.

Her expression had been grave all along: "That guy's pride is no less than Robespierre's. He may not accept this form of 'marriage alliance.' Otherwise, he wouldn't be here today."

At that moment, Christie Blade's brow lifted slightly, noticing something unusual: "Something's off. The magical energy conflict is very intense."

"Are they about to fight? Whoa, that's not a very good choice."

The young mage shook his head slightly: "Though I really dislike Robespierre, I have to admit that guy indeed possesses top-tier power beneath the gods. His future will surely surpass our teacher. Care to bet, you two? I bet that within three minutes, Robespierre will make this guy suffer a major setback—a lesson he'll never forget. I'll wager a hundred soul gold coins."

"The stakes are a bit high."

The middle-aged man pondered for a moment, then also placed a hundred purple-gold coins on the table: "But acceptable. After all, he's someone our teacher values, even more than Anthony. Yet he's foolish enough to attack the 'Scepter of Destruction' head-on. So I bet twenty minutes. That Robespierre fellow is actually quite cunning."

Blade hesitated, her expression pained. But in the end, she placed an item on their makeshift betting table: "I don't have that many soul gold coins, but this mythical equipment should be of equivalent value. I bet this lucky Andre can at least escape unscathed."

"You're unusually generous. Do you have that much faith in him?"

The young mage looked at his junior sister in surprise, but the next moment, he was drawn by a fierce blade light in the magical image. His pupils suddenly dilated.

He saw with his own eyes that the spatial membrane of the twenty-story magic tower, which should have been extremely tough, was slashed open by the long sword in Li Mochen's hand with a single strike. Moreover, the entire spatial membrane was split apart, divided in two!

"A melee-type conceptual divine authority?"

Beside him, Bethel Einstein was also stunned for a moment, then exhaled another puff of white smoke.