“Tell me honestly – have you noticed that the undead seem to be getting stronger every day? They are well-organized. They even use a reward system with above-average buffs. What does it mean? These mindless beats have developed the ability to make artifacts.”
“Yes, commander, we see it every day,” Talker replied. Many others nodded in assent.
“Moving on,” Alex continued. “The undead approach development differently than we do. They only level-up themselves, while we endeavor to develop not only ourselves but our technology and weapons. I am far from giving up on technical progress, but if we want to survive, we need to update and adapt our approach to development. This is the reason why you are here. Nobody will bother us out here, and we have much time to plan and brainstorm.”
“Three months?” Talker asked.
“No, much more. I will have opportunities to work in my personal spatial gap, where time can be significantly accelerated. You will also be given access to it. In addition, we have brought water from Earth and Intellectum to improve our mental activity. We desperately need positive results. We must create a powerful set of spells that can be passed on to anyone.” Alex paused. “That’s all. I suggest we begin forthwith.”
He paced the wardroom, setting an ampoule of Intellectum in front of everyone present. “Our planet is at stake. Develop your magical abilities.” He clapped his hands, beaming at his friends. “And now, long live the holiday of the first hyperjump! Commence celebration of this event!” His words were drowned in joyful screams. “Long live the spree! Hurrah!”
***
Hell’s bells! Looks like we lost a day, Alex thought the next morning. For some reason, though, I’m not upset… My head doesn’t hurt either. Strange.
He opened his eyes. “Damn… I’m not the head of the clan, but the source of the vice,” Alex muttered, trying not to wake the ladies. Anna slept peacefully on his left. Sophie snored softly on his right, her arms around him. All three of them were shamelessly naked.
Suddenly self-conscious, Alex tried to rise but received pokes in the ribs by the brunette and the blonde.
“Sleep, honey, sleep. The thing about work is, it’ll wait for you.” Sofia cooed, hugging him tighter. Anna just grunted, not even opening her eyes. Both were asleep again within moments.
“Well… it’s true. Sometimes I can be lazy too.” Alex smiled at his playful thoughts.
Chapter 21. Minstrel of Stone Plateaus
After an hour’s run and a swim in the luxurious pool filled with Intellectum-infused water, Alex finally felt his mood improve.
I have to start implementing my plans right now, Alex thought.
Alex examined himself, satisfied with the result. He then spent two strenuous hours creating a new piece of uniform. The black military tunic, bearing a small clan badge on the chest, had a laconic air while simultaneously achieving harmony with his position and environment.
I need to develop outfits for different occasions. Alex Phoenix shall be a trendsetter in galactic fashion. He smiled at the thoughts
“Ancient! I’m ready!” he said, moving to the wardroom. To those present, he said, “The time has come. Let’s see how much time we can spend in the Igloo gap. Make the cold your best friend and helper. In addition, I will make it so everyone is immune to the cold in our reality.”
The eyes of the clan members sparkled with enthusiasm and readiness.
The head of the clan continued, “Ancient, you’re in flight control. Let me know if the situation changes. I will give you access to our training Igloo. Mates, pack yourselves in the center of this room as tightly as possible.”
“Thank you for the vote of confidence, Captain Phoenix,” Ancient replied.
Alex nodded. “Now that everyone is ready…” With that, he activated the Igloo.
***
He registered his entire team in the Igloo interface, yet felt fear and uncertainty. Many people were transporting at once.
I did it. Good start, Alex thought, breathing in the frosty air of the Igloo.
The clan members stared at the snowy area, their mouths agape. Alex considered the enormous size of the Igloo, which stretched beyond the horizon. Wow, how much space is there? Hundreds of miles? Thousands?
Tall snow-capped mountains and forests were visible in the distance. The babble of the river met his ears,
“Maximize local time acceleration,” he said nervously, hoping this feature was still available for him. His voice echoed and the words thundered around the space, causing several minor avalanches.
Alex exhaled. The Igloo was the same secret hideout as before, but now with increased attributes and capabilities. To relax, he said, “Welcome to my ice den, mates! Has everyone gotten boosts?”
“Yes!” said one crew member.
“We have!” said another.
“Wow!”
“Commander, how is this possible?”
Arms out, Alex smiled. “Magic. Ancient magic of snow and blizzards. Homo-42, what’s new in your stats? Talker, speak to me.”
The usually talkative and light-hearted lug, stammered, “Commander, my hair is standing on end! My ability ‘Ice and Cold Mage’ is of the 3000th level... The 3000th! Admin’s crap! Does that mean I can use magic?”
“We have the same,” Rosk and Rhombus said in unison.
Alex nodded. “How much mana do you have?”
“2000!” the admiring Homo-42s buzzed.
Well, nothing’s changed here, Alex thought with relief. “The ‘Ice and Cold Mage’ ability is now yours forever. But mana and the level of magical ability will change after returning to reality.”
“Hooray!” Talker whooped. “Gods of the Earth and the Sun, I am a mage! A mage!”
Alex raised his hand. “I
