Zogarth
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Chapter 1221 - An Explosive Auction
🕑 Added 2025-10-02 11:18:41 +0000 UTCJake watched as the Malefic Viper kept observing the auction house from afar while slowly sipping on his drink. He was seemingly waiting for something... or perhaps someone.
As he was sitting there, a female beastkin approached him with a smile on her face. “Sorry I was late; you know how my old man can be.”
“Hey, it’s your work and a priority in your life, who would I be to judge something like that?” the Viper answered in a kind tone as he stood up to greet her.
What happened next nearly sent Jake reeling as the woman closed him and embraced the Viper. He returned her hug as their lips touched for a brief moment before quickly disengaging from their public display of affection.
“I’ve missed you,” she said, holding his hand as she sat down. “How did your mission go? Did you find it?”
“Still looking,” the Viper shook his head. “We’ve found some evidence that the facility had once been on a few planets, but they somehow keep moving it around. We theorize that some kind of high-level space magic is at work, but it’s too early to tell for sure. It may also just be a really talented team at assembling and disassembling.”
The last part was clearly a joke as the woman laughed. “In either case, I hope you find it soon. The City Lord trusts your organization’s expertise.”
“And I do not take such trust for granted,” the Viper responded. “But enough about me, how about you? Are all your preparations coming along well?”
“According to my father, we’re way behind schedule,” the beastkin woman answered in a deadpan tone.
“So things are coming along?” the Viper chuckled.
“Yep,” she also smiled. “Okay, there have been some problems with the hired security. You know how those formation masters are, needing everything to be just perfect. The other security personnel are also a bit of a hassle to deal with, but their leader keeps them on short leashes so they don’t cause too many problems before the big auction.”
“I did hear a lot more security was hired this time around,” the Viper slowly nodded as he suddenly seemed curious. “Hey... off the record, are the rumors true about what will be auctioned off this time?”
The woman seemed apprehensive for a moment before leaning in. “Yeah... no idea why the seller is even willing to part with it, but it’s the real thing. My mom confirmed it personally, so no doubt about it.”
“Hm... alright, that definitely explains why there are so many people coming these days and why the City Lord got stricter with the rules,” Villy nodded. “Anyway, not that it concerns me too much, not like I have anything to do with the auction.”
“Actually... there will be a social gathering before the actual auction, and I was wondering if you’d be willing to accompany me?” the beastkin woman asked with hope in her voice.
The Viper hesitated for a moment. “Would that be alright?”
“Definitely,” the woman said with a bright smile. “Dad also said it’s okay, and seeing as he’s the one hosting it, you’re golden.”
“In that case, wouldn’t it be rude of me to reject?” Villy said, still seeming a bit unsure even though he agreed.
“Great!” the woman said, squeezing his hand. “And afterwards...”
The Viper just gave her a knowing smile, but before anything more could happen, a waiter arrived to take the woman’s order.
At that moment, the vision began to speed up as the ordering and following conversation was skipped through, time returning to normal as the woman got up to leave once more.
“Remember, don’t be late!” she said, before leaning in and giving him a quick peck.
“I wouldn’t dream of it,” the Viper responded in the same soft tone he’d used throughout the vision so far. He watched her walk away, and as he did, the oddly comforting smile slowly warped into the kind of smile Jake was far more used to seeing on the Viper’s lips.
Once more, the vision began skipping forward. This fast-forward gave Jake some time to properly collect his thoughts as he seriously needed a moment to understand the scene that had just played out.
Clearly, the Viper was in some kind of romantic relationship with the woman, and at the same time, he was doing some kind of work for the City Lord. From what the woman said, it also seemed that her family was involved in running the auction house, an auction to which the Viper had just been invited.
Jake knew the Malefic Viper well enough to understand this entire situation was fishy as fuck and likely due to the snake god’s machinations. Based on how he’d looked at the auction house, the place clearly interested him, yet he had acted apprehensive when the woman invited him...
Before Jake had time to think much more, he had been skipped forward to the auction. During the fast-forward, all Jake had seen was once more the Viper just walking all around the absolutely massive city, touching random places and leaving a bit of mana behind.
At the auction, Jake inhabited the Viper, who stood beside the beastkin woman in a large gala room. She was wearing an elaborate dress, while the Viper had on a rather spiffy suit.
The two were standing together as a large beastkin man wearing a very fancy-looking suit approached them, causing the woman to light up.
“Dad! I thought we’d missed you!” she said with a bright smile.
“We had a lot of last-minute preparation,” the beastkin man said to his daughter before turning toward the Viper. “And finally, we get to meet. I’ve heard much about you from the City Lord, and it’s a shame we haven’t been able to encounter one another despite you dating my daughter.”
His tone was an odd mix of politeness and harshness that the Viper definitely didn’t take to heart based on his response.
“It’s truly a pleasure, and I also find it regretful our schedules never aligned before today, but as they say, better late than never,” the would-be snake god chuckled before quickly changing the topic. “I must say, the venue is absolutely stunning. From what I briefly saw of the auction hall before, that too looked perfect.”
“Bah, save your empty flattery,” the beastkin man waved him off, though it was clear he appreciated what the Viper said.
“I’m genuine,” the Viper said in the same soft tone Jake just couldn’t get used to. “It’s all beautiful, and as you can see, my ability to judge beauty is truly second-to-none.”
He said the last part while leaning slightly towards the beastkin woman, who blushed a little at the compliment.
“You've got quite the silver tongue, don’t you?” the beastkin man said, his demeanor a lot mellower and friendlier compared to before.
“I’m just an honest man,” the Viper smiled before seemingly suddenly having a thought. “Say, I had the impression the City Lord would also attend today, but I haven’t seen him? I’d really hoped to catch him as I have something important I would prefer to give him in person.”
“He will only be there for the auction itself,” the beastkin man said, shaking his head.
“I see,” the Viper let out a loud sigh.
“Why the long face?” the beastkin running the auction said as he crossed his arms. “Just attend it yourself.”
“I don’t have that kind of money,” the Viper said, his hands raised in defense of his own poverty.
“No one told you to buy anything, but giving an extra number out shouldn’t be a problem, and besides, having more people there makes for more competitive betting even if you don’t bet yourself,” the man said, inviting the Viper into the auction hall itself.
“I would be remiss to miss being there,” the Viper relented. “I guess the real bidders will be the A-grades today, right?”
For the first time, Jake had confirmed that there were A-grades present, which only made Jake wonder how strong the Viper was even more than before. Jake did find it a bit off that he hadn’t been able to feel the Viper’s grade despite the minor displays of magic, but he wasn’t going to question it too much as he just enjoyed being along for the ride while looking forward to when the real juicy stuff began.
Luckily, he wouldn’t have to wait for long.
“They are indeed,” the male beastkin confirmed. “So better be on your best behavior. I know you’re friendly with the City Lord, but that won’t be enough if they make an unfortunate enemy. You might be a peak B-grade, but the gulf between grades is truly enormous and not one any of us can expect to pass.”
“I’m fully aware,” the Viper nodded solemnly. “Yet I still hold hope in my heart to one day evolve...”
“From what I understand, you’ve been peak B-grade for a few centuries already, correct?” the male beastkin asked with a raised eyebrow. At the Viper’s confirmation, he continued. “I guess that still makes you young, so I’m not going to say it’s hopeless, but it definitely won’t be easy.”
The Viper kept nodding as the male beastkin sighed. “Look, I can put in a good word with the rest of the Golden Road Emporium, and if you do us some favors, perhaps someone can find a good teacher or something.”
“That would be much appreciated,” the Viper said, his face lighting up with the suggestion.
“You’d better appreciate it,” the man huffed as he looked at his daughter. “But if you want to pay me back...”
“I understand,” the Malefic Viper nodded in understanding. The female beastkin in question clearly also noticed as she took his arm and leaned into him. Returning the sentiment, the Viper also put his arm around her, an act that made the father look a little miffed, but he didn’t say anything.
“Oh well, I'd better get back to work; we’re not entirely ready yet,” the beastkin sighed.
“I understand, the Viper said as he extended his hand in greeting. “It was truly a pleasure to meet you, sir.”
The father of what appeared to be the Viper’s girlfriend took and Viper’s hand and shook it, nodding in approval... not noticing the faint traces of poison the would-be snake god released into him upon contact.
A few minutes later, someone delivered a plaque to the Viper that would allow him entry to the auction.
After retrieving this plaque, time sped up yet again. The next time things returned to normal, they found themselves in a huge auction hall with several large booths, each filled with people wearing elaborate clothing. Below was a stage with the male beastkin from before, standing there looking his best, as a pedestal was placed right in the center of the stage.
Several of the people in the room didn’t even try to hide their auras as they blatantly flared their power as A-grades.
Items were being displayed there, and during the fast-forward, Jake had seen several items being auctioned off. There were a few weapons, a set of armor, what looked like a meteorite, and several other things that were probably valuable, but Jake had no way of knowing. Not that it mattered, as evidently only the next item was of any true value.
The hall had gone silent as the auctioneer introduced it.
“And now for the thing I’m sure you’ve all been waiting for. As I’m sure you all remember, there was a recent system event for A-grades only, during which certain rewards were given. It can only be assumed that most of these rewards are long gone or currently being used by those who received them... but one person decided that money was more important than this potentially priceless treasure.”
Faint murmurs were heard throughout the room as everyone showed intense interest in the item about to be unveiled.
“Rather than give you a lengthy explanation, trying to sell you this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity... how about I just let you all lay eyes on it directly? Now feast your eyes upon the Eye of the Magus!”
The pedestal in the center of the stage had its middle lowered into the floor, but was now being raised again, this time with an item sitting on top of it. Jake watched on with interest as the so-called Eye of the Magus was revealed, and... alright, it actually looked fucking disgusting.
What was revealed was a severed hand seemingly fused into a piece of rock. This hand was somehow alive, clenching a large eyeball that barely fit in its grasp, with the eye also alive as it darted around, seemingly not looking at anything in particular.
However, despite looking gross, Jake knew this thing was the real deal. It exuded a powerful magic and something more that Jake was particularly sensitive to at the moment.
Concepts... It’s like a wellspring of concepts.
In many ways, the item called the Eye of the Magus reminded Jake of what was beyond the gate. Naturally, the Eye of the Magus was infinitely less potent, but likely also far easier to digest. Moreover, it seemed to primarily hold magic-related concepts, hence the name. Jake’s thoughts were also confirmed shortly as the auctioneer spoke after having given everyone time to marvel at the item.
“Truly a wonder only the glorious system could conjure! A treasure to all mages or just those interested in magic! However, I must warn you that, from all our tests, it would be inadvisable for anyone below A-grade to even attempt to gain benefits from the Eye of the Magus,” the beastkin man began.
“However, to the one who does successfully absorb it, be ready to see your magical prowess expanded to all new levels! Comprehend the true nature of the world with the perfected assistance of the system itself, gaining insights that are truly priceless... though of course today, we are going to put a price on it.”
The hall was abuzz with excitement as the auctioneer took a deep breath. “Bidding starts at fifty million Credits!”
That last sentence really threw Jake for a loop. Fifty million? That was nothing! Jake had billions of Credits as a damn E-grade, and sure, Jake was probably the most filthy-rich E-grade around, but still. Jake’s only conclusion was that inflation had truly gone crazy over the many eras.
“Fifty million!”
“Sixty!”
“Seventy!”
“One hundred!”
The bidding for the Eye of the Magus instantly picked up speed as nearly all the A-grades in the auction hall wanted it. Again, Jake understood why, especially for those who were around back then. Records were a lot harder to come by, and there were fewer opportunities for growth. They didn’t have stuff like Nevermore or other World Wonders; there wasn’t an expansive teleportation system across universes that allowed one to travel freely and seek out anywhere one wanted for inspiration.
Even now, this Eye of the Magus would be viewed as an item of extreme value. Jake understood why all these people wanted it... but also knew that none of the current bidders would be the ones walking away with it in the end, because Jake was inhabiting the being that would surely obtain the Eye of the Magus.
So far, the Malefic Viper had just quietly observed the situation and allowed the bidding to continue. The price just kept going up, and as the excitement was getting to a high level... the Viper made his move.
It was subtle, but Jake clearly felt the faint usage of magic from the would-be Primordial. He activated Touch of the Malefic Viper, and as he did so, the room erupted in chaos mere moments after.
Throughout, several of the B-grades present suddenly seemed to fall incredibly ill, with many falling over and throwing up blood. They were mainly the weaker family members of the powerhouses, instantly catching their attention.
The bidding stopped, but before the auctioneer could say anything, his eyes also opened wide as blood began running from his eyes, and he also threw up blood.
Besides the Viper, the beastkin woman looked panicked as she practically flew out of the booth down towards the stage. “Dad!”
The security was on the move instantly, but nobody stopped her, knowing who she was... which also allowed the Viper to subtly follow her onto the stage.
All around the large auction hall, the auras of powerful A-grades erupted, some of them already in mid-tier A-grade from the looks of it. The security also quickly moved to lock everything down and ensure there wasn’t too much panic. There were also several healers present who immediately began working, with everyone trying to locate the source of the attack.
“Dad... Dad, what happened?” the beastkin woman asked with concern as she kneeled down beside her father. The Viper also moved closer, a face full of concern. A perimeter of guards surrounded them, leaving only the Viper, his assumed girlfriend, and the auctioneer within. Alongside the Eye of the Magus, of course.
“Sir, here,” the Viper said, hurriedly reaching into his spatial storage and taking out a red potion.
The man looked at it with surprise for a moment before quickly accepting it. At the same time, the Viper also took out two other bottles, handing one to the woman. “Here, drink; it’s a resistance flask.”
As he said this, he downed a flask identical to the one he gave the woman, making her follow along. After she had consumed the bottle... the Viper’s demeanor changed.
“My love,” he said, leaning in close as he placed a hand on her cheek. She looked at him, confused as he spoke again. “You’ve fulfilled your role perfectly, and now it’s time for your final act.”
Before she had time to understand what he was getting at, the Viper’s hand started glowing. Her face began to swell instantly, along with the rest of her body. The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as he blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open.
A massive explosion of poison gas consumed the entire chamber, and a second later, the auctioneer also exploded, suffering a similar fate. Elsewhere throughout the city, thousands of magic traces left by the Viper also activated, exploding as corrosive gas was released throughout, taking not just the auction hall by surprise as the entire city was seemingly attacked at once.
Comments
Little Silly
Nah, they’re probably dead. The Emporium survived without them.
Yip
Edit:Before she had time to understand what he was getting at, the Viper’s hand started glowing. Her face began to swell instantly, along with the rest of her body. The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as he blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open. edited:Before she had time to understand what he was getting at, the Viper’s hand started glowing. Her face began to swell instantly, along with the rest of her body. The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as he blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open.
Grond (James)
So the Golden Road Emporium founders must be right behind the Primordials in power if they also came from the first era. Maybe they were S grades when the 2nd era started
Christopher Jones
Just another reminder that Vilas is not known as The Malefic One for nothing.
Chloe
Tyftc
Michael Click
Rip
Rachel Clements
Tyftc! Yup, that reputation was earned...
Khumo Mononyane
Damn thats cold but bravo 👏👏👏👏really goes to show the cunning of Villy and how you really can't trust someone face value in the multiverse especially unknowns
Steven Thompsen
Man I know he's technically the bad guy but damn that's f***** up
Shandlar
This vision is S grade Villy. It could be millions of years since the first universe integration in the vision, while his B grade persona for this heist likely claims to be a couple thousand years old. The timetable would mean nonhods at all exist yet, so why wouldn't the Golden Road exist already? There's no particular reason any of the primordials would obliterate them after ascension and a merchant god could have been achieved super early in universe 2 integration. Seems fine to me.
TSMS
How does the Golden Road Emporium already exist? None of the Primordials are merchants. How would a faction survive that long without gods at the helm? The Viper was alive really early in the first era. At least the First Sage was born during the integration of the first universe and Villy and the First Sage met as C grades. How can Villy be described as "still young" for a B grade? There shouldn't be anyone significantly older than him.
Michael Ferguson
Bad karma.
Gabe Stankiewicz
Thank you for the chapter Zogarth!!!! You’re awesome man. This whole arc has been absolutely amazing. How do you even do it, for real?
Kota
While leaving her alive would have been nice, from the Viper's perspective, that would have been just stupid. Wasn't one of the first things he taught Jake "don't leave bad karma"? The Viper's actions here would have made her a deadly enemy, and he isn't in the business of leaving those alive when he can help it, not unless there's some ulterior motive at play.
Jason
Okay, quick prediction. New meditation skill is a divine skill, which super weird for a C-grade, and it gets him a new title (after making a Mythical skill at D-grade). The Viper in the vision uses palette to absorb the concept-item. Jake learns from this and makes a new/revised palette for himself that can absorb knowledge of concepts.
Dragon
That’s my guess
Xien
No words… just nothing…👀😱
David
Not quite how that works. Remember, he learned his escape skill from a vision of Villy in S grade (fight with Valdemar) and he didn't get an S ranked skill from that. If he did, then it would have been a mythical skill at worst, especially considering he was d grade at the time
Drexnaw
The primordials were the first gods and in this Villy is B grade "possibly A grade pretending, if he was a god why do any of this" so i dont think anyone would of seen the golden road of records unless this is another first sage plant
Phil Ritter
I‘m more and more relieved Villy isn’t actually in opposing sides or a mortal competing with Jake. He’d be an absolute nightmare to deal with and the perfect antagonist considering he isn’t too cheap for anything. Also what a dick move to blow her up together with her dad. At least could have left her be for the cooperation
Phil Ritter
Valdemar definitely faked and star seizing titan likely did too It’s probably similar to Jake when he leaves behind a anker in a certain space but on the other hand I also expect him to have a storage skill. What good thieve wouldn’t have one of those. Yep Adam is a big boy by now Wasn’t there a mention of Vespy reaching B-Grade after Nevermore? She went in there after all at the peak of C-Grade
Phil Ritter
Thought so too but I’m actually not even that sure anymore he really killed her
Jordan Jones
Lest we forget that he is the MALEFIC Viper.
JW Saxby
Villainous Villy 😎👍🏼 Also I was think this two chapters ago and after this chapter bringing them up I can’t help but feel I might be right, I reckon the name of the Golden Road Emporium faction comes from them hinting at the secret road everyone has to follow in their souls to transcend into godhood. I first thought it when Jake was walking on a road of Golden pages that led him to that door. And now seeing the Golden Road faction turn up one or two chapters later I’m thinking that random assumption was right 😅😅👍🏼 Tyftc 🍻
MadMats17
Thanks for the Chapter The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as 〖he〗> 【she】 blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open.
brjenness
random stuff: valdemar faked his fight with yip or yip would not have been able to get away does jasper have a dimensional storage? if not that means he escaped the puzzle box multiple times to hide the prizes he claimed weren't inside. nephew all grown up now. vespy might be b grade by now
Xerecs
I've felt for quite awhile now that the palate skill if upgraded correctly would allow Jake to be able to possibly absorb and grow with natural treasures like beasts can. Which if that is the case would make more sense as to the Yip of Yore treat that Villy has stashed away for Jake to consume. Also I think we all know now that we have been duped into a week long cliffhanger on these upgrades. This man is a monster.
WaxDinosaur
Maybe repair palette first to use it to absorb god level concepts as a peak c-grade?
Eden
He didnt get malefic viper title from nothing
Joshua Little
Thanks for the chapter.
Byron Hu
Right there with ya, lol.
Jeremiah Lambert
Midas was born in the 2nd era. Also guess who gave him that magical touch? Yup villy!! Haha altho I guess it kinda back fired on him for the past 91 eras...
Devlin
Finally caught up! I don't know what I'll do now that I have to wait between chapters...
brjenness
not a connoisseur of yorkshire tea?
Trumangolorian
Yay villian Villy shows up again. Tyftc.
Jose Reyna
Tftc!!!
Fdrugc
Tftc
Mikesch
He is discribed as a beast turned sapient, than betrayed by humans. Then he became obsessed with turning stronger. I think there is a trillion years of characterdevelopment after that we need to take into account, most we dont know of. Only that "she" changed him and eternity mellowed him out a bit. I think he is still powerhungry and can be ruthless but also able to have real Personal connections and feelings towards others.
AetherBoye
Should be "as she" in that second to last paragraph
Kevin Watson
it’s also very funny to me how often people forget the viper is considered like, one of the most stereotypically evil gods around
Kevin Watson
i’ll say it again, i’m willing to bet “snake” meaning duplicitous and willing to hurt others to gain comes from Villy
KenTX325
He needs a skill that lets him digest records and concepts. Preferably using pallet.
Biggy smalls
Or maybe still is. We only see the on screen Villy. Even some of the on screen stuff Villys done or not done has been bad. We don’t know what the rest of his who knows how many avatars are up to in the multiverse.
Abhishek
What an ahole
Tilen Praprotnik
Thanks for the chapter
MrBooniecap
It’s easy to forget that the viper used to be a real piece of work.
Benjamin Mages
Except I don't think he's doing that? At all? He already gave pretty good reasons why he wasn't when Jake asked earlier.
mucky 12
Maybe he trusts his instincts to figure out whether he is safe around people. I remember when he first met villy, he wasnt scared at all even tho villy was clearly trying to scare him away. He was perfectly safe due to the system's protection. I'm not saying they'll never fight down the line but for now they seem chill and also villy clearly cares very deeply for the few people he allows into his little circle co sidering he destroyed almost an entire universe out of revenge once.
Haydn
You would think it would be detrimental to him to do that to his chosen, but who actually knows?
Ty Cooper
I am wondering if he is going to fix/upgrade pallet and since he used two charges is he going to upgrade touch at the same time? Kinda like the Vision of Villy and Valdy fighting.
DeAndrea H
Nah. Yip had major “That’ll never happen to ME” energy. He would’ve just assumed those people were dumb NPCs that got what they deserved
oak
Why? We know Villy is evil, why are you surprised when he does evil shit? Xd
Micheal Cook
We are assuming he is a Peak B. He can change his level so I am thinking he is on the cusp of godhood and he wants those records for the final push. Also makes me wonder if the potion he gave Artimis has a latent poison in it in case she realizes that Villy is playing the part of the Mind Chief and fattening Jake up for slaughter later.
DeAndrea H
Well damn, Villy… Or should I put some respect on his name, Vilastromoz? I love this reminder of why the Malefic Viper is so feared. It’s so dissonant with our view of fun, silly Villy. I will say it was a bit of a tease. For a brief second I thought we were getting a scene of Villy with his wife. I also find it interesting that Jake was shown a scene of Villy playing a long con, pretending to have real feelings towards someone just to betray them to get something he wanted. I hope this isn’t long game foreshadowing!
Scott Conway
I thought the same thing and was hoping after 1000+ chapters we would finally learn about his wife- then I realized Nature's Attenents daughter probably wouldn't be a beast kin then the rest of the chapter happened. Soon! We will learn soon
Jason
Yeah, this implies that it probably pre-dated the system (or otherwise came into being right afterward, since we're still very early in the first era at this point). It wasn't a faction started by a god.
Jason
Okay, so this is a record fragment ending with how Villy absorbed a bunch of A-grade-appropriate concepts as a peak B-grade, which hopefully will help Jake absorb a bunch of concepts as a near-peak C-grade. And then somehow repair Palette, after tomorrow's cliff-hanger ;)
Avery
If you're just now picking up on that, I'll go ahead and tell ya he's literally Satan. He's a talking snake that gives people poison fruit. His biggest "enemy" is the "original" human.
Arieh Sochaczevski
Thanks for the chapter!
Smiley Face
Probably? He would DEFINITELY hunt him down.
Keion
All these schemes and how he plans 5 steps in the future not caring how long it takes … the bonds he just be forming to blow up and Jake really be thinking it could never be me ? Not even a tinge of doubt
Nairne
I find it disturbing how few people (if any) express genuine revulsion at what Villy did.
PathOfPen
It’s actually crazy that Jake is going to learn the version of the Palate that Villy had as a peak B-grade when Jake isn’t even peak C-grade yet.
John Durrett
tyftc. Jumping Jake Flashback, Its a Gas Gas Gas!
Kaladin
I wonder if it was his wife that tamed him somewhat or if he just got more mild once he was at the peak.
Connor
Thanks for the chapter
Potato Sandwich1
Holy cow. I guess he's not called the MALEFIC viper for no reason
Nairne
Thats dark.
Joshua Kreiss
He will be just fine
Devillelouch
The Golden Road Emporium being on good terms with the Viper after this is funny. I wonder if this confirms that Midas ascended in the 2nd era or was born after the 1st era.
Starkly Glim
Ugh, so now I see the setup for a truly vicious weekend cliff. Sigh. And young Villy was an asshole, of course.
John Durrett
Yes, however those don't work on non-conventional people. ;P
A Flashy BR
Tyftc!!
Jonathan Venn
Seriously, every chapter this week I have a feeling that I’ll have to wait another day to get more. You’re basically feeding us literature crack Zog, and it’s utter torture, lol, I wish tomorrow comes sooner
Dani
If Villy and Jake grew up in the same era, Jake would probably hunt him down.
Carl Never
If yip would have read this he definitely would have challenged anyone else
Jayce Sul
Holy shit. The Golden Road Emporium was there since the first Era? Even before Vilas became a God? That faction is OLD.
ABTelford
And the snake of slaughter and deception rears his head! Fantastic chapter man. Couple minor edits needed, but otherwise wonderful!
Jason Hardman
TYFTC! Typo here, in the pronouns: The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as he blew up like a balloon within less than a second -> as she blew up
Enzo Elacqua
I think at the end you meant ‘she blew up like a balloon’ not ‘he’ right? Unless I’m missing something
Tom C
“The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as he blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open” Should this be “as she blew up like a balloon”? Or was it the viper who blew up like a balloon? I think it’s a typo and it was the beastkin who ballooned, but idk! TFTC!
micah Hogan
Villy is making us remember why we have the Geneva conventions.
Carl Never
We knew it was at least the second era. But not to much of a stretch to think the mortals asended working at the emporium
tigerfishie
TYFTC I love the Villy flashbacks so much
Robin Caveriviere
Wonder if Villy is short for Villain, would makes sense
Strickdoggg
Bruh these chapters keep making me crave more
shawn B
Well… there’s some of the vipers past misdeeds
Carl Never
The cheeto arc had me convinced villy is an evil god im still not sure he wont eat jake
Carl Never
I think the a grades buying and selling are gaurds for there own event. And i think it is important and big. Emporium has multiple people on earth. Connects the whole multiverse with trade
Boomer
Until you pointed it out I didn't even realize I had read that incorrectly!
Carl Never
Yes dont date any snakes any time soon
CocoaBleu
Dang, that was vicious… I wonder how Jake feels about getting a first hand view of what earned Villy the Malefic moniker.
joel southard
Thank you for the chapter
Andrew P
IIRC, he was alive during the first initiation.
NovaZero
You fool! We are about to be edged tomorrow!
Sammot
Was it ever established the viper was part of the initiation of the first era universe? Or was he born later in the era.
David Hall
YIKES!! We all know that the viper is viewed as evil by most. We've been told examples of something of things he's done, but seeing brutal acts on a personal scale is different. Giant space dragon destroying planets is one thing a camouflaged A-Grade snake making the calculated decision to blow up key individuals and points of what has to be a security array of some sort to steal a treasure held by a not small faction is peak villain. Love, seeing Villy's past.
Jeryd Greer
Great chapter, but now I know that we won’t be learning about the meditation upgrade this week. Sigh, Good stuff Zogarth
Leviathan
Damn, silly went chemical, biological, and gas warfare on these people. Also, I can't be the only skyrim fan the read the eye of the magus as the eye of magnus
Rahsheem Reid
Villy doing Villy things.
ThatGuy
Same. Once it said “beastkin” I knew it wasn’t her.
brjenness
having trouble feeling sorry for someone who cursed their entire planet
Seiryus
Maybe it isn't the first era and the item is actually useful to a god? Remember Jake can't feel the Viper's grade, we only have the npc's word for it.
Kt-x
Thanks for the chapter
Koof Tron
Did he just turn his girlfriend and her dad into an IED? LOL
Shadowind
Tftc
David
Well of course you would never do that! You would never consider eating something so gross! You have standards!
ThatGuy
Idk if I’d like that or not… I don’t think it’s possible with everything that’s already been written about his wife but if it somehow doesn’t directly contradict the stuff early in the series that sure would be interesting
Lawrence Dillon
We love a villian
David
If he was a god, he would have no use for an A grade treasure. Also, he would have no need to scheme as he did. He could have just taken it. The highest grade mentioned was A grade, thus making it likely no higher grades were in attendance.
Ben Cox
Tyftc I enjoy seeing Villy do his thing as a mortal because he really schemes up a hell of a plot.
Numors
Amazing one! And I just came up with a theory (not related to the chapter). What is the chance that Villy’s dead wife (nature’s attendant daughter) isn’t actually dead and is part (or leader) of the organisation hunting Jake?
Deborah
Why does everyone assume that it is the first Era? I bet he is a god and using shrowd to hide so he can get the item cto go over one of his many walls.
Xander
TFTC :) Villy really was a dick back then, huh? I mean, hes still a dick now just less towards low level people. Suggested edits: "competitive *betting* even if you don’t *bet* yourself" should be "bidding" and "bid" . You bet on horse races, you bid on auctions. "Viper’s girlfriend took *and* Viper’s hand" should be "the" "blood began running from his eyes, and he also threw up blood." awkward phrasing. perhaps "...flowing from his eyes and mouth" instead. "The security *also* quickly moved to lock everything down" You repeat this "also" in the next sentence. I suggest ditching this one just to make things flow more smoothly "sadness as *he* blew up like a balloon" should be "she"
Abriel Blauer
The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as he blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open. --> The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as she blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open.
Kevin Hargett
It’s definitely the first era, because by the close of the first era the viper had made it to godhood…. I think he’s gotta be A grade, using a shroud. And I believe your right on the last count
Takoda Heitz
You fr did play some Skyrim bro
Kevin Hargett
Once I realized that the girlfriend wasn’t nature attendants daughter I knew she would die in this chapter lol
Jesper Hansen
In moments like this it's important to remember that he started like a little weak snake most likely barely sentient. You don't grow up from that to become a dragon god by throwing around hugs and kisses.
Sylphie
Ree!
Anthena Sales
Villy is fucking ruthless, and I love it.
reginal laster
Yo Villy is a real fiend
Namorat
Why would he create this group millennia before Jake was even born? Why would he try this convoluted kidnapping? He could take Jake anytime. Heck, he could kill him or claim to kill him and say it was because he was a heretic in fact. Who would doubt him or do anything to investigate or retaliate? I do not want you to be right, but this is why your theory isn't true in my opinion.
Henry Brogdon
Damn that's cold. Ice cold.
Sarianne
And so the wait for tomorrow begins, luckily it's still 1 day till the weekend
Clint
So many questions. Is this the first era? (Golden Road Emporium pre-Midas??) Is Villy really B-grade here, or is he doing the Shroud thing to appear weaker? Or is this an avatar of him, in the second or third era?? I assume he’s going to use Palate on the Eye of Magus — will Jake learn to use his newly rebuilt Palate to directly gain conceptual understandings?
Namorat
Many questions, some related to the chapter specifically. Isn't this still the first era? And we already have the golden emporium? Should that faction not be even more important and big, even if their leaders didn't become primordials? And in general, how do guards work for businesses? If there are A grades, they would need a bunch of B grades as guards to have a chance, right? Those must be very expensive because they are powerful themselves. Would it make more sense to have one guard, who would be strong enough to handle a few threats of lower grade?
Jabirttok
Im assuming he's lying to them about his power level so he could speak in with no suspicion.
IntenseSushi
Tftc love seeing Villy live up to his name
Cory S.
Inflation is a bitch. Lmao.
Chegs
“My love,” “You’ve fulfilled your role perfectly, and now it’s time for your final act.” Damn that sent shivers down my spine…absolutely ruthless
Fyrtue
The planet...maybe. the city...no.
lockx
Villy showed off an entirely different type of inflation at the end there to the type Jake was thinking 🤣
Tie
Damn, Villy the honeypot. 🤣
Daniel
Is this plague?
Loststar7
Thanks for another great chapter. Minor edit suggestions. having more people there makes for more competitive betting (bidding) even if you don’t bet (bid) yourself,” The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as he (she) blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open.
Yiskah
Zog spent a few weeks not torturing us during the break so he's catching up now. I think fan despair and anticipation is how he gets his own experience.
Smiley Face
Kinda?? Lmao
kiewitz
I think they had gods since the second era and their oldest members are from then but I don't remember any mentions of them not existing before that. Tbh I'd kind of expect one of the oldest organizations around to be a trade consorcium.
Rewdan
Thanks Zogarth, it’s always good to learn more about Villy.
Den
It is the *Malefic* Viper, not the slightly unkind snake
Death56
Damn he really was a piece of shit huh. Kinda figured after he turned a guy into record Jerky plus how everyone reacts to him but damn this really drives it home
Ra
Dang. For a hot second I thought we were going to find out about the Viper's GF/Wife. But that smirk made me suspicious. The lack of Nature's Attendant more so. That explosion cemented it.
Rewdan
The concept of desolation. Imagine an arrow so powerful that it makes part off you desolate, lifeless.
C0bra$
Thank you for the story
Andrew P
If palate is all about learning concepts and gaining records from treasures, and Jake now has a wellspring of concepts/records, can he modify palate to continually digest from his new gate?
brjenness
Most hated theory of the day. Villy is still the bad guy. He engineered death of wife and child as an excuse to destroy part of a universe and grab some resource that he had to go into seclusion to absorb. Mystery faction is all villy's work laying foundation for when he disappears Jake. The scene with first sage telling viper to kill him was the sage refusing to teach him anymore and no longer fearing vipers threats. These scenes from Jake's skill are perfectly curated to lead Jake down a specific path. Villy is the final villain.
Temlat
Bah, this whole post break arc has not been enjoyable while trickling in at only one chapter a day. Needed to bank these and read them all together so I’m not left hanging every day… Thanks as always Zog
Fyrtue
Zog is in rare form following his break. A week full of cliffhangers to set up a massive one on Friday.
Michael Fannon
Damn, that's cold. Well played. It is interesting, from the vision with Valdemar it appeared that Villy was among the most powerful in the entire universe at that point, yet here there are multiple A-grades above him. I wonder if this item is what kick starts his road to godhood.
Rewdan
The Viper is a top draw schemer
sam d
Golden road emporium in the first era?
Demi
It’s so easy to forget the Malefic Viper is, well, malefic.
Daniel Brian
So hardcore, like Quickdraw McGraw. Fuck what you heard, you ain't heard this before! -Vilastramoz
djthomp
Kind of surprised to see the Golden Road Emporium show up in what I assume had to be the first era, they wouldn't have any godly patrons until at least the second and a mortal led organization lasting the billions of years between eras is impressive continuity in spite of the turnover. Though maybe it's been established before that it's that old and I'm just forgetting.
Ed Soto
Tftc
Eofad
I may be mistaken but wasn’t the Golden Road Emporium created sometime after the second era started as it isn’t ruled by one of the Primordials, so seeing it mentioned here seems to be a small continuity error, unless Villy is already a god during this vision and that’s part of why Jake is having trouble placing his strength.
Alexandre8901
Tftc
Wselby64
My guess is because of using two charges and all the concept stuff going on that jake won't only see how the viper uses palate and find how to fix it but will also be able to consume the concepts that the viper does from the eye
Reyhulko
Mh, thequestion is: will the planet survived this time around, or not?
Thomas Kuhn
Tftc
NinjaDad
Tyftc!
Corvid
Explosive inflation at that
Kasi
Holy shit, I knew Villy’s evil and not above any vile tactics but damnnn, this mf got that dawg in him 🤣 TFTC
Suzanne Pearson
My funny bone was tickled at the fact that even the great multiverse struggles with inflation
NicN
Tftc Damn, at this rate we won't have any answers until mid next week. We haven't even seen how the viper will use palate in a new way with this eye But my guess is this is where the viper gets his first divine skill allowing palate to directly consume and manipulate the records of an object
Kyler
Come on man you already know that's not the case, we're getting the rest of the fragment story tomorrow then upgrades prolly Tuesday next week
frankie doerr
Villy being villainous is always fun to read
Meir Banon
Tftc
Loukas
im getting nervous... surely this upgrade arc will be over before the weekend
Corvid
Nobody uses the word "spiffy" enough anymore, and that's a damn shame.
Gavin
Villy was a true devil 😂😭
Anthony Taylor
It's never a war crime the first time.
Apollo Greed
Ruthless Villy is a wild boy
Pierre-jean Samaran
sadness as he blew up => she*
Shinigamix
Well, we always knew the Viper wasnt a good guy. Was time again to hammer that home. Love it
GeneralBlack
He is the malefic viper... There are no Geneva convention in the first universe!
Kirin
Looks like a spelling mistake at the end there “The only thing she had time to do was look at the Viper with eyes full of confusion and sadness as **she**blew up like a balloon within less than a second before bursting open.” Unless the viper blew up I think that’s what it was trying to say.
Dow Adkins III
Thanks for the chapter
Strato Junon
Damn villy once again showing he's kinda a bastard. Tyfc
Kirin
Thanks for the chapter!
Beemoss
Tftc
Chase Songer
Cool chapter
DaMule
Just going to like this and leave a comment before I read it... I already know I will enjoy reading the chapter! Thanks Z
Eduard Marciuc
That damn inflation
Eric
FINALLY
Michael
Excited
BlackRazaras
Thanks for the chapter
Paul B
Yessss
