This is destined to be another lengthy research.

Afterwards, Sunan looked at the pitch-black branch beside him.

This branch is named the Black Key, which, as the name suggests, is the key to open the Black Forest.

During this period of research, Sunan has roughly mastered how to use the Black Key.

At the same time, he also discovered that the Black Key is constantly and slowly absorbing energy particles from the surrounding air.

It is estimated that it will take about three years to fully charge.

Based on this, Sunan speculates that the Black Forest is likely similar to the Tower of Starlight, opening only once every while.

And the next opening time of the Black Forest is most likely three years later.

"I hope it gives me some surprises."

Sunan murmured to himself, his eyes flickering.

After the incident with the Tower of Starlight, he no longer harbors any illusions about so-called wizard heritage.

The Black Forest is likely another facility where a wizard force forcefully recruits manpower, laying the groundwork for future return and nurturing influence.

To get the resources inside, it’s likely there will be another battle then.

Although he has already become a wizard, much stronger than during the Tower of Starlight, Sunan will not underestimate the Black Forest.

After all, it is wizard heritage, and matters related to wizards should not be underestimated. No one knows what dangers may be hidden inside.

More importantly, the Black Forest is very likely related to the Spider Goddess Queen.

The Philier Clan has held clues to the Black Forest for so many years; Sunan doesn’t believe the Spider Goddess Queen is completely indifferent.

Perhaps she’s already extended her reach into the Black Forest, who knows.

Even more so, the reason the Spider Goddess Queen can interfere with the Starlight Continent likely has something to do with the Black Forest.

Though it’s only speculation, Sunan won’t ignore any potential risks.

"Before entering the Black Forest, must be fully prepared."

Sunan looked pensive.

In a mere three years, without a large amount of divine energy to absorb, there surely won’t be a major improvement in spiritual refinement level; he’ll have to look for external means.

"Once the research on the Demon Pattern Core is finished, it’s best to refine a few more secret puppets."

"Also prepare more engraving gemstones; with my current spiritual refinement level, I should try increasing the synthesis quantity, perhaps twenty pieces."

"Plus Black Thunder, should make a few more of those."

In the battle against the semi-spider with divine favor, the power displayed by Black Thunder made Sunan very satisfied.

At present, Black Thunder is arguably the most powerful attack method in his arsenal.

Even liquid metal, merely in terms of instantaneous damage, cannot compare with Black Thunder.

For such a powerful trump card, the more the better, naturally.

However, Sunan now only has two Black Thunder in hand.

To make more Black Thunder requires a large quantity of Thunder Stones.

"It looks like I’ll have to make a trip to the Thunder Elemental Plane soon."

Among the many elemental planes, the Fire Elemental Plane and Thunder Elemental Plane are the most dangerous and hostile to life.

For instance, in the Fire Elemental Plane, it is a sea of fire everywhere, and the terrifying high temperatures can turn a knight to ashes instantly upon entry. 𝗳𝚛𝚎𝚎𝘄𝕖𝕓𝕟𝕠𝚟𝚎𝕝.𝗰𝕠𝐦

The Thunder Elemental Plane is filled with countless layers of thunderclouds, where dense lightning falls every second; one might get struck by lightning just walking around.

Without sufficient protection, it might not be long in the Thunder Elemental Plane before getting struck to ashes by lightning.

Additionally, the elemental spirits in the Fire and Thunder Elemental Planes are quite a headache.

Back when he just got promoted, Sunan would absolutely not set foot in the Thunder Elemental Plane.

But now, with many trump cards like the forbidden area and Black Thunder, and his spiritual refinement level over 40%, he has enough strength to attempt exploring the Thunder Elemental Plane.

As long as he doesn’t venture into the core area, being careful should be fine.

...

Aurora Kingdom, capital Aurora City.

When Trevor Jangji walked into the chamber, he found the spacious hall already full of people.

Besides the royal entourage, notable nobles of the kingdom were all gathered.

"Looks like the pressure from the Starlight Empire is quite immense."

Trevor’s gaze flickered slightly.

Among these people are sworn enemies who often clash sharply, and usually, upon meeting, would want to draw swords; yet here they sit compliantly side by side, showing the enormous pressure the Starlight Empire brings, forcing them to temporarily set aside hatred and unite externally.

Trevor could understand.

Aurora Kingdom sits at the edge of the Northwest Domain, adjacent to the Southeast Domain border, the closest country to the burgeoning powerful empire across.

Once war breaks out, Aurora Kingdom will bear the brunt; it’s fair to say they’re at a life-and-death juncture.

"Trevor, thanks for coming personally."

Upon Trevor’s arrival, the Aurora King personally stood to welcome him.

The noisy nobles also halted their chatter and rose to greet.

As Aurora Kingdom’s only Level 3 Wizard Apprentice, Trevor Jangji holds a supreme position in the kingdom; even His Majesty shows great respect, not daring to neglect.

After a few words of courtesy, Trevor took a seat beside the king.

As soon as he sat down, the Aurora King impatiently spoke up.

"Trevor, you’ve likely heard about the situation in the Southeast Domain; what are your insights?"

Trevor pondered his words, then slowly said, "Your Majesty, the Starlight Empire’s actions thus far prove its great ambition; that empire will never be content with merely the Southeast Domain. Once they’ve digested the newly conquered territories, they will undoubtedly target us in the Northwest Domain."

"So you also think this way." The Aurora King sighed, unable to hide his worries.

In fact, anyone with vision can see the intentions of the Starlight Empire.

If any country were in the Starlight Empire’s position, possessing the power to conquer the Starlight Continent, they would surely make the same choice.

"Trevor, what do you think we should do?" The Aurora King asked worriedly.

The attending members of the royal family and nobles also looked expectantly at Trevor.

They’ve debated for ages but couldn’t come up with any good solution; now they can only hope this always resourceful sage would show them a way.

Facing everyone’s hopeful gaze, Trevor was silent for quite a while before slowly saying:

"Your Majesty, I think surrendering to the Starlight Empire isn’t a bad choice."

As soon as he said that, everyone changed their expressions.

Trevor seemed indifferent, continuing: "The Thorn Flower Duchy in the Southeast Domain surrendered to the Starlight Empire back then; its royal members were not subjected to liquidation, instead they were granted the status of a ducal clan, and most nobles below preserved their territories. I think our kingdom can follow suit."

The hall fell into a strange silence.

The Aurora King and the royal family had varied expressions.

Though being a ducal clan is not bad, how does it compare to ruling a country?

Once surrendered, their future status and power will surely greatly diminish, which is difficult for them to accept.

The other nobles also showed hesitation.

Although most nobles of the Thorn Flower Duchy kept their lands, no one knows if they’ll be among that ’most.’

Moreover, there’s no guarantee that Aurora Kingdom will receive the same treatment as Thorn Flower Duchy.

Unless the Starlight Empire’s emperor personally guarantees it.

After a long time, the Aurora King broke the silence, his voice sounding distressed, "Is there another way?"

Trevor sighed inwardly, knowing the Aurora King still couldn’t let go of power and status.

He was prepared for this, so he revealed the alternative method he had already thought of.

"The Starlight Empire has a strong military, but if the states in the Northwest Domain unite, there might still be a chance for resistance."

"The key is Sunan!"

The name Sunan seemed to possess some kind of magic, changing the expressions of everyone in the hall instantly.

By now, Sunan’s reputation has spread across the entire continent.

Especially among wizard apprentices, royal families, and the circle of high-ranking nobles.

Everyone knows the Starlight Empire has produced an Official Wizard.

Immediately upon promotion, he used thunderous means to kill over ten Level 3 Wizard Apprentices of the Truth Council, showcasing the powerful strength of a wizard to the entire continent!

When this news reached the Northwest Domain back then, it caused quite a stir!