Chapter 352 Learned flying magic, okay! - Socially Anxious Witch in the Apocalypse

In the storage space device, the remaining abilities were: [Spatial Movement], [Psychic Spike], [Mercury Body], [Petrification], [Allure]. Su Miao glanced at them and stored everything into her magical space. She didn't need to merge these abilities. Because Su Miao believed in magic. For instance, when it came to Psychic Spike, its power couldn't compare to the Heart-Piercing Curse. The abilities of Mercury Body and Petrification had obvious flaws—merging them wouldn’t enhance her; rather, it would introduce new weaknesses. If Si Di hadn't absorbed so many abilities, becoming notably conductive, he wouldn't have died in such a pathetic manner. There was also the Allure ability, which she found unnecessary. She was a witch, not a succubus. Moreover, she was already quite pretty and adorable. If she fused with the Allure ability, she'd likely draw attention wherever she went. For someone with social anxiety, that would be a nightmare. As for Spatial Movement, while Su Miao had witnessed its power many times, she still didn't need it. Spatial magic was something she intended to learn and master eventually. Returning to the familiar seating in the second-floor living room of the villa, Su Miao took out "Flight Magic" to study. After her journey to the Elder of the Mountain relics, she had finally acquired the flight magic she yearned for. She had to study it well. Before she knew it, another half month had passed, and Su Miao had preliminary mastered flight magic. Why "preliminary"? Because while she could manage simple flights, she needed more practice to be proficient. Additionally, the flight magic referenced the crafting of related magical flight tools. These magic flight arrays could be engraved onto a long-handled broom to create a flying broom; on a staff, a flying staff; and on a small boat, a flying boat. With unlimited magic power and strong capabilities, having or not having a flight magic tool was irrelevant. Su Miao took out her phone to research the origins of magic brooms. She wanted to verify some hypotheses. Perhaps the lighter the quality of the magic flight tool, the better. However, after researching the relevant information, her expression turned peculiar. The magic broom was something she decided not to make. Instead, Su Miao took out an alloy staff and resolved to engrave the flight array onto it. Flying side-saddle on the alloy staff would look quite dashing and somewhat like a magical girl, which seemed cute and fit her aesthetic. There was space left on the alloy staff to inscribe new magic arrays, allowing her to add flight magic directly. Thinking it over, she sketched a few flight arrays in her notebook first. After multiple studies and simulations, Su Miao confirmed the necessary flight array. Three days later, she successfully inscribed a new flight magic array onto the alloy staff. With magic power infused into the alloy staff, she only needed to focus, and it would orbit around her in flight. Sitting side-saddle on the alloy staff, Su Miao flew around the cherry tree magic barrier once and returned inside. Given the eternal night outside, straying too far from the cherry tree's magic barrier could lead to getting lost. A long-distance flight test would have to wait until the end of this endless night. Also, there was another issue. The adventure in the Elder of the Mountain relic had concluded—what destination awaited her next? She didn't know the location of the door that the Twelve Commands had to open. For now, she'd stay put. After finishing her studies, Su Miao routinely checked her phone, logging into the Night Owl app to catch up on events. The moment she entered, numerous highlighted posts caught her attention. The first post was from a month ago. "[Battle between Witch Irena and Si Zhi, who knows the outcome?]" Author: Timo Irena livestreamed earlier, leading to Si Zhi, skilled in sudden conflicts, confronting her. They exchanged a few words before an explosive battle ensued. I only saw a big explosion on my screen—anyone there to know what happened next? Attachment: [Irena and Si Zhi Battle Video] ... 1st Reply, [Xin Miaomiao]: Lack of beginning and end. After just a few exchanges, Irena used the cover of eternal night to escape. 2nd Reply, [Frequent]: It’s pitch black outside, couldn’t see a thing. 3rd Reply, [Poteto1024]: Wasn’t there, but I’m quite curious about the issue of ability pollution. 4th Reply, [Silent Lee]: Terrifying. Is evolution really just pollution? 5th Reply, [Scientific Council]: Really worried about Lady Irena. 6th Reply, [Woow_Bb]: Si Zhi's madness is quite terrifying. Luckily, the endless night descended. 7th Reply, [Nasida]: Confirmed, witches love explosives. 8th Reply, [Panda Tony]: Explosions are an art! ... Si Zhi did get caught up in it, didn't he? Did he go there because of Si Di's death, or was it about pollution issues? Su Miao scrolled down the post to understand Irena and Si Zhi’s conversation back then. The Twelve Commands' Si Zhi was indeed unstable, prone to madness and ready to fight over the slightest thing. Regrettably, the video only captured the beginning of the battle, nothing beyond that. She couldn't gauge Si Zhi's combat power through the video. If she were to antagonize Si Zhi, understanding his abilities in advance would significantly enhance her chances of victory—similar to her fight with Si Di. Wait, Xin Miaomiao? That nickname seemed familiar. Didn’t they mention something revealing last time too? Were they present this time as well? Su Miao closed the topic and continued browsing other posts. Spending more than a month mostly sleeping had left her feeling disconnected from the latest developments. "[Multinational Ability Users Demand China Reveal the Path to Godhood]" Author: Curry Rin Latest news—foreign ability user organizations have expressed dissatisfaction after witnessing Lady Su Miao slay a deity’s phantom outside the Elder of the Mountain relic. They claim that China found the path to godhood in the apocalyptic world but did not disclose the method, calling it selfish. Several foreign ability user organizations have issued statements, preparing to apply joint pressure on our nation. The most vocal among them are the Church, the Illuminati, and North American Salvation Society. I’ll attach some screenshots for everyone to see. Attachments: [Image 1] [Image 2] [Image 3] [Image 4] [Image 5]... ... 1st Reply, [Some Deep-sea Animal]: Have these people misunderstood something? 2nd Reply, [justkrystal]: From Irena’s livestream, it seems the Illuminati lost four big shots. 3rd Reply, [Ling You]: The path to godhood? Can humans become gods? 4th Reply, [Tfgchfchb2]: But Irena said the essence of evolution is pollution. 5th Reply, [Beginning End]: Don’t take things out of context! If it’s pollution, how did Lady Su Miao slay the deity? 6th Reply, [Cold Wind Rin Yue]: A question—has Lady Su Miao become a god already? 7th Reply, [Su Ling]: Will these Western user organizations confront Lady Su Miao directly? 8th Reply, [Ai Yi]: If they did, they’d get blown up. 9th Reply, [Four Cats Doing Mischief]: Western abilities users are good only for online blathering. ... Reading the post, especially the names in the screenshots, Su Miao pondered a bit and jotted them down in her notebook. She might encounter them later. When that time comes, she will eliminate them all. She was just an ordinary witch. Where would she obtain a method to become a god? If she truly were a god, who would dare to become her adversary? Presently? She was under constant attack. Facing the apocalyptic catastrophes of this world, she felt exceedingly frail. If possible, Su Miao wished to locate a highly secure mountain, plant a tree, and set up a magical barrier for a calm life, which would bring her immense happiness. Regrettably, she couldn’t do that. Because her parents remained missing. She had to explore the hidden world. ... The long-awaited Twelve Commands meeting commenced. On the large screen, one avatar after another illuminated. This meeting was again moderated by Si Sui, with Si Ming, Si Li, Si Chen, Si Shu, Si Zui, Si Heng, Si Ye, Si Zhi, and Si Wu gradually entering the online meeting hall. Si Sui began, “Based on projections, the endless night will end in a few days, transitioning back to endless day.” “From the previous cycles of endless day and night, I predict potential abrupt high-temperature calamities or extreme blizzards.” “Moreover, due to the endless night, unprecedentedly terrifying mutant creatures are appearing sporadically.” “The apocalyptic disasters on Earth grow increasingly unstable, more perilous.” “We must open the hidden world soon.” “Si Shu, are preparations on Si Di’s side ready?” Si Shu replied, “Rest assured, the new Si Di has been arranged. The plan won’t be affected.” Si Sui inquired, "Alright, who will handle matters on Si Tian's side?" Si Ming responded, "I'll take care of it." Si Sui continued, "If the new Si Tian attends, there's a possibility that Witch Su Miao might also be present. Does anyone have any concerns?" Si Heng stated, "I don't recommend the witch's attendance; if war breaks out, it would be extremely troublesome." Si Zhi interjected, "If you want to mention my name, just say it directly. No need to beat around the bush." Si Zui added, "Si Zhi, control yourself and don't go berserk." Si Zhi replied, "What, in this meeting, apart from this plan, truly convinces any of you? Your words sound like a cacophony of squawking chickens and ducks to me." Si Ye commented, "Si Zhi, the pollution affecting you is growing more severe." Si Zhi retorted, "The pollution is intentional. Many of you clearly want to eliminate Su Miao, yet choose to keep her around just to see if she can become a deity. Am I wrong? Your ambitions are truly grand." Si Wu asked, "Si Zhi, are you planning to enter the hidden world?" Si Zhi affirmed, "Naturally." Si Wu concluded, "Good, then the meeting is adjourned. Proceed according to the plan." Even Si Wu, who rarely attended meetings or spoke, intervened, and Si Zhi refrained from saying more. Si Wu was mysterious and had never revealed his true form, garnering respect. ... On May 14, 2124, the global eternal night dissipated. Regional eternal day set in, with outdoor temperatures instantaneously rising to about 30 degrees Celsius. It was a bit muggy, but survivors on Earth were elated as the temperature didn’t soar further, speculating the apocalypse might finally be over. However, as temperatures climbed, regions began experiencing torrential rains. In just one night, some areas turned into vast expanses of water. Floodwaters surged and roared in all directions. Some ability users were ready to venture out and hunt mutated animals for better sustenance upon the arrival of eternal day. But, caught unawares, many were swept away by the floods. Others, observing the rain, wisely sought shelter in underground bases. Constructed safely, these underground bases were impervious to floodwaters. Their primary concern was being submerged under water if the floods didn't recede, which posed a significant challenge. "Double-check everything! Any leaks could spell disaster." In the Base of Shattered Leaves, Administrator Artyom patrolled every corner, issuing reminders to everyone he encountered. The combination of chilling blizzards, scorching heat, and, now, inundating floods was likely to compromise some of the base's materials. His job was to prevent such risks. "Don't worry, Artyom, this is a matter of life and death for us." An elderly man inspecting equipment said, "The flood outside has risen to ten meters—it's terrifying." "Indeed." "The sky barely cleared, and the downpour struck hard. In just a few hours, a flood has formed—terrifying." "Who knows how many have perished globally. We’re lucky to be alive. Let’s focus on ensuring the base's integrity." "Right!" The workers proceeded with the inspection. Seeing that everyone was in good spirits, Artyom felt reassured. He took out a photo of his daughter from his pocket. Gazing at her adorable picture, hope for the future filled him. In this apocalyptic world, his daughter was his only light. As long as she lived, he was willing to do anything. "One more thorough check. If everything's alright, we'll head back." With this thought, Artyom began the inspection again. The base revealed no issues—the screws were tight, and no signs of internal alloy cracking. Even drone checks indicated nothing amiss. One last inspection, then home. During this final check, a near 13.0 magnitude earthquake erupted near the base. Despite the base’s robust construction, the earthquake tore a crack. The high-pressure floodwaters found this opportunity to surge in, turning the crack into a gaping breach. Screams erupted as the ground shook violently, and water roared in. Panic ensued as floodwaters engulfed the base in an instant. "Alina!" Caught off guard, Artyom was unprepared for the earthquake that devastated his base. Floodwaters ravaged the base, violently shaking and toppling structures. Desperately, Artyom sprinted home. Inside his space storage, there was an amphibious aircraft. If he could make it in time, Alina would be safe. Fueled by concern for his daughter's safety, Artyom ran faster than he ever had before, only to find an unimaginable horror upon reaching home. His daughter, Alina, lay in a pool of blood. His once-trustworthy comrade held a blood-stained dagger, clutching the space storage device. Seeing Artyom's return, he hurled a high-explosive, demolishing nearby concrete structures before fleeing in panic. "No!" Ignoring falling debris and the raging waters outside, Artyom dashed forward... In mere moments, the underground base, home to thousands, was submerged. In such a terrifying disaster, no one knew if any survivors remained. ... Within the cherry tree's magical barrier, Su Miao gazed at the downpour outside and paused her plans to leave. Anyway, given her possession of flight tools, flight magic, and mechs, she could go anywhere when needed. “Oh, I could visit Europe.” Su Miao blinked as the thought occurred. There were plenty of magical books there. She could collect more. As long as she had food, surely they'd be willing to trade, right? Yet, recalling the internet rumors of the malicious motives from organizations like the Illuminati, the Church, and the North American Salvation Society, she hesitated~ What if she encountered people from these groups? Even if they weren’t, what if someone harbored ill intent after seeing her offering food? Pondering a solution, Su Miao thought, "I don't have to go to Europe myself; I can have someone represent me." Amidst the apocalypse, worldwide communication via aircraft or spacecraft for trading resources still made sense. "But who should be tasked with this representation?" Su Miao faced a new dilemma. Should she contact Shelter No. 1? She had the authority to issue a mission, which would surely be accepted by someone. Yet, considering the inherent dangers of trading in Europe, Su Miao dismissed the idea. For dangerous tasks, it’s best to entrust them to dangerous individuals. What about the Twelve Commands? With their scale and capabilities, acquiring a few magical books shouldn't be an issue. Pei Xiaomiao and Si Shu were friends. Si Li and Du Yulin could also be considered. But should she really seek their help? After thinking it through, Su Miao decided against it. Perhaps later. “Your Highness, two people are drifting over with the floodwaters,” Myna pointed to the distance and said, “One is still alive. Should we help?” Su Miao stood atop the hill and peered outside. She saw a man and his daughter struggling in the torrent. Though the young girl had already passed away, the man still tried his best to keep her afloat each time they sank. Despite his breath growing weak, they were clearly a father and daughter. Su Miao instructed, “Luoli, get them.” “Understood, Your Highness!” Su Luoli transformed into her bird form and flew toward the floodwaters. A minute later, Myna brought the father and daughter to the cherry tree’s magical barrier. Su Miao raised her hand, conjuring a large water sphere that enveloped them, cleansing away the flood’s filth and healing them slightly, before bringing them inside the barrier, laying them on clean ground. The weakened father barely opened his eyes, seeing Su Miao and Su Luoli, and pleaded in Russian, “Save my daughter, save her…” Su Miao shook her head. The girl had long since passed, with no chance of revival—unless reanimated as the undead, which was unsettling. Su Luoli replied in Russian, “She’s already gone.” Extreme anguish flashed across the middle-aged man's face as he lost consciousness. (End of Chapter)