Spellcasting Gods

Zhang Cheng pulled hard on the reins to try to calm the horse, and casually took the black sword from its handle.

The moment he gripped the sword hilt, a black mist began to swirl around his arm, and he could even hear eerie screams and wails.

At the same time, detailed information about the sword suddenly flashed into his mind.

Longsword - Soul Reaper, for use by Dark Guardians. Each time it strikes an enemy, it draws a portion of the enemy's life force to replenish the user. If someone is killed by this sword, there is a certain chance that their soul will be imprisoned and transformed into an evil undead in endless pain and torment for the Dark Guardians to control. (Note: Soul Reaper is a demonic sword, so the more souls it imprisons, the more powerful it becomes. Once the master can no longer control it, it will devour the wielder.)

"A demonic sword that can devour its master?"

Zhang Cheng sneered and curled his lip, then turned around to continue examining the black full-body armor covered with exquisite patterns.

Unlike the weapons, the armor didn't have much of an unpleasant feel; instead, it appeared exceptionally ancient and heavy. In particular, the shield pattern on the front of the breastplate not only served a decorative purpose but also added a powerful auxiliary spell—Divine Grace.

Once activated, it grants an overwhelming advantage in a short period of time, such as faster weapon swings and easier hits on vital areas.

In addition, the helmet, boots, and gloves are all equipped with very practical auxiliary spells; the only regret is that they are not equipped with a shield.

Reality isn't a game where you can sweep away all enemies just by carrying a cool weapon.

In real combat, shields are often more important than weapons.

Because a person without a sword may not be able to kill others, but a person without a shield usually won't survive until the end of the battle.

After examining the weapons and armor provided by the parchment scroll, Zhang Cheng squinted and muttered in a voice only he could hear, "Interesting. It restricts my unrestrained use of magic while providing all sorts of magical items to aid me. What exactly do you want me to do? Or is this a test? A test of my ability to break the restrictions?"

Just as he was frowning and deep in thought, Elo Tyrell appeared beside him without his noticing, a slightly shy smile on her face, and gave a curtsy: "Lord Mason, congratulations on winning the tournament."

"Thank you! I think it's all thanks to your prayers just now, beautiful lady." Distracted, Zhang Cheng quickly turned his head away, putting on his fake disguise again.

He didn't know when it started, but he gradually began to hide his true self and wear all sorts of masks to deal with all kinds of people.

Now, even when faced with a seemingly naive and immature young girl, he does not hesitate to choose lies and deception.

“Hehe, I’m not that powerful. It’s all thanks to your strength. Besides, my cousin Loras once said that you are the most powerful knight he has ever seen, so winning the championship is only natural.” Elo Tyrell winked playfully after saying that.

"While I am very grateful for Sir Loras's praise, his description is a bit exaggerated. I don't consider myself the most powerful knight." Zhang Cheng shook his head as he silently sheathed his demon sword—Soulbinder.

He didn't want this evil weapon to be exposed to others' sight too early.

"You're so modest. If you don't mind, could you walk with me for a bit? I hope to get to know my future husband better before we get married." Elo stared expectantly with her two beautiful big eyes.

Although Zhang Cheng was more eager to return to his residence to try out his newly acquired abilities and research how to hatch dragon eggs, he patiently nodded for the damned task given by the parchment: "No problem, I also happen to want to get to know my young and beautiful fiancée."

"Then what are we waiting for? Come on, I happen to know a quiet place." Elo then ran lightly toward the riverbank not far away.

She was like a carefree little bird, occasionally letting out a soft laugh, completely unaware of the hidden motives behind this marriage.

"Damn it! I never thought I'd be reduced to playing a love game with a little girl..." Zhang Cheng complained helplessly.

Despite his complaints, he still chased after her, appearing to enjoy it immensely, and occasionally making intimate but inappropriate gestures.

With her far ahead-of-her-time experience and skills in seduction, Elo Tyrell became completely absorbed in the moment within just two or three hours, only reluctantly returning to the Tyrell family's residence in King's Landing with her handmaids at sunset.

The girl had barely boarded the carriage when Blanco emerged from the shadows, bowed with one hand on his chest, and said, “Congratulations, Sir. I didn’t expect you to be so skilled with women, in addition to your incredible strength. Miss Elo has already fallen for you in just one afternoon. I think she wouldn’t mind if you did something to her now.”

"Hmph! Don't imagine me as a piece of trash who only thinks with his lower body. Remember, the most important thing to be a qualified player in the game of power is not to let your emotions cloud your judgment. This girl is just a tool, or more precisely, a ladder, a shortcut to the end of power, and has no other meaning."

As Zhang Cheng spoke these words, he made no attempt to conceal his coldness, and the chill in his eyes made the old mercenary shiver involuntarily.

Fortunately, he reacted quickly and bowed his head to report, "Sir, I have gathered the mercenaries in a cave by the sea as you requested. Would you like to go there in person now and let them know who their employer is?"

“No, it’s not the right time yet.” Zhang Cheng waved his hand without hesitation. “Keep them hiding! After all, there’s a saying that goes, to deceive the enemy, you must first deceive your allies. Oh, by the way, here’s this sword as a reward. You’ve done a good job these past few days, I’m very satisfied.”

As soon as he finished speaking, he grabbed the enchanted longsword with electric properties and threw it over.

Caught off guard, Blanco hurriedly caught it, his face filled with disbelief as he asked, "Sir...Sir, is it really for me? It...it is..."

“What, is that strange? To me, it’s just a tool, no different from Elo Tyrell. Now that I have something better, the lesser one will naturally be given to a loyal subordinate. I’m not a stingy master; as long as you have enough ability and loyalty, you will surely receive unimaginable rewards,” Zhang Cheng hinted, looking into the old mercenary’s eyes.

Chapter 0114 An Encounter

Time flew by, and with the tournament coming to an end, King's Landing returned to its usual state.

Of course, this "normal" only refers to the surface. Anyone with a little insight would realize that the conflict between the Lannisters in the West and the Starks in the North is intensifying, and a slight misstep could trigger a war.

Everyone is now waiting to see how Robert Baratheon will handle this.

But this king, who only knew how to indulge in pleasure, suddenly dumped all his affairs on his prime minister, Ed, and went hunting outside the city with his servants.

Upon receiving this news, Blanco immediately returned to his residence and informed his master...

"Oh? Are you sure our King has left the city? Do you know who he was with?" Zhang Cheng asked, stroking his chin.

“Yes, I saw him leave the city with my own eyes. As for his entourage, it seems there was his brother, Lord Renly, Ser Barristan, and Lancel Lannister, and some others whose names I don’t know…” the old mercenary replied with some uncertainty as he tried to recall.

"Wait! You said there's Lancel Lannister?" Zhang Cheng's eyes flashed with a sharp light.

“Yes! That’s right! If I remember correctly, he should be the Queen’s cousin, an insignificant nobody. Why are you paying attention to him?” Blanco asked, a puzzled look on his face.

He had no idea that this insignificant little man would become the fuse that ignited a war that would sweep across the Seven Kingdoms.

Zhang Cheng simply smiled, gently stroking the uneven shell of the dragon egg, without offering any explanation.

After a long while, he picked up a black cloth and covered the dragon egg with it. Then, without turning his head, he ordered, "Go and tell Derry to prepare a proper outfit for me. It's time to visit the Queen."

“As you wish…” Blanco bowed.

Although he had countless questions in his mind, he understood one principle: don't ask what you shouldn't ask, and knowing too much is not always a good thing.

In just a few minutes, the butler and maid helped Zhang Cheng change into a black suit, and they rode straight to the Red Keep, the royal castle located atop Aegon Hill.

Because of his tournament victory and his impending marriage to House Tyrell, the guards quickly verified his identity and let him pass.

Just as he was about to go directly to see Cersei Lannister, he suddenly ran into the person he least wanted to see in the corner of the corridor—"Littlefinger".

"Ah! Sir Mason, what brings you to the Red Keep? Aren't you busy preparing for your wedding to the beautiful Miss Elo?" Petyr Baelish greeted him with feigned surprise.

"You're right, I am indeed preparing for the wedding. However, you should understand that I am merely a knight skilled in swordsmanship, not in these matters, so I intend to consult Her Majesty the Queen." Zhang Cheng, who could lie without batting an eye, secretly became more vigilant and hastily made up an excuse.

He dared not be careless in the slightest when facing the most brilliant schemer in the entire continent of Westeros.

"Is it really just for the wedding?" Baelish raised the corners of his mouth slightly, revealing a playful smile.

Zhang Cheng spread his hands innocently: "What else could it be but a wedding?"

"Hehe, I'm sorry, maybe I'm overthinking it. But just to be on the safe side, please allow me to ask again, we're still friends, right?" Little Finger took two steps forward and whispered tentatively.

“My dear Earl, whether we are friends or not has never depended on me, but on you. If I’m not mistaken, you seem to be secretly gathering information about the Children of the Forest behind my back, which is not the behavior of a friend.” Zhang Cheng retorted without backing down.

He understood that playing dumb with this cunning and treacherous fellow was the worst possible strategy; sometimes, showing a little dissatisfaction was the smartest choice.

Baelish's expression froze instantly, and it took him a full half minute to manage a weak smile: "Where did you hear this news from?"

"Please don't worry about the details; I have my own methods. The key issue is, shouldn't you share them with your friend? I promise I won't disrupt your plans at this crucial moment," Zhang Cheng said meaningfully.

"No problem, I'll have someone deliver the documents to your home later. After all... we're friends..."

After saying this, Baelish nodded, suppressing his anger, and quickly disappeared at the end of the corridor.

Watching his slightly disheveled figure, Zhang Cheng couldn't help but smile and mutter to himself, "Keep up the good work, my friend. I hope that next time we meet, I can get more information about the Children of the Forest from you."

After a brief interlude, Zhang Cheng quickly crossed the corridor and arrived at the Queen's bedroom.

As soon as he entered the door, he saw Cersei sitting alone on the balcony, looking down at the entire city of King's Landing. On the table was a bottle of expensive Dornish red wine, which she was pouring herself a drink.

Perhaps she heard footsteps, or perhaps it was a woman's innate, keen sixth sense.

In short, Cersei quickly noticed someone entering the room, put down her empty glass, and without turning her head, ordered, "Fill it up!"

Zhang Cheng smiled and shook his head dismissively at this probing tactic. He stepped forward, filled the empty glass, tilted his head back, and drank it all in one gulp. He then placed the glass back on the table and said in a slightly arrogant tone, "Excuse me, Your Majesty, I am a knight who charges into battle, not a servant who pours wine for you."

"Oh?"

Cersei was clearly surprised that someone would dare to make such a bold move, and immediately turned around to look at Zhang Cheng.

After about a minute or two, she suddenly burst into laughter without warning, teasingly saying, "Hahaha! What a knight charging into battle! So, what brings you here today, knight?"

“It’s very simple! I spoke with your brother Jaime some time ago, and now I want to know what Lord Tywin’s thoughts are. You know chaos and war are coming, and I want to be prepared before they arrive.” With that, Zhang Cheng sat down in another chair and quietly awaited a reply.

"Hmph! You're very bold! More bold than anyone I've ever met! But the question is, what can you offer, and what do you want in return? The Lannister family doesn't just accept a stranger as an ally, especially an ambitious one."

Perhaps knowing Robert was about to die, Cersei spoke without any pretense, openly revealing everything...

Chapter 0115 Parting on Unhappily

"Your Majesty, have you misunderstood something, or do you think I am begging for alms?" Zhang Cheng asked with a half-smile.

As someone who knows the general plot development, he wouldn't be intimidated by just a few words from the other party.

Admittedly, the Lannister family is one of the most powerful families in the Seven Kingdoms, and Tywin Lannister is notoriously difficult to deal with, but that doesn't mean their victory came easily.

On the contrary, from the time King Robert died until the end of the War of the Five Kings, the Lannisters were actually in a rather dangerous disadvantage for most of the time.

Whether it's Eddard Stark, who is about to be killed, Renly, Stannis, or Robb Stark, they all have the opportunity to take control of King's Landing and plunge the Lannisters into the abyss of defeat.

The Battle of Blackwater was a turning point, with King's Landing completely caught in a pincer movement. Had Stannis not murdered his brother Renly, directly causing the Tyrells to turn against him, the outcome would likely have been very different.

Undoubtedly, Zhang Cheng has the ability to change the original plot, but in order to protect his greatest advantage—his ability to foresee the future—he chose to go along with the plot. However, this does not mean that he will compromise with the Lannisters indefinitely, especially with this short-sighted and vengeful woman in front of him.

Cersei crossed her arms over her chest, a hint of amusement in her emerald eyes, and then asked in a half-joking tone, "Isn't that so? Don't forget, you're just a minor nobleman who has lost his lands, with no army under your command and no illustrious family behind you. The only thing worth mentioning is your martial arts skills, which are far beyond those of ordinary people. In my opinion, you can't provide what the Lannister family needs at all."

"Hahahaha! Your Majesty, my dear Queen, do you really think so?" Zhang Cheng couldn't help but burst into laughter.

He never expected that in the other party's mind, he was just a henchman, just like "The Mountain" Gregor Clegane.

"What, am I wrong?" Cersei frowned subconsciously.

Zhang Cheng did not answer the other party's question directly. Instead, he stood up and looked out at the distant sea. After a full minute, he turned around and slowly said, "It seems that I made a mistake today. I overestimated your vision and your judgment of the future situation."

Although you always think you have a great talent for politics, you are actually just a poor imitator of Duke Tywin, and you have no idea how dangerous the current situation is.

You may not know this, but Earl Baelish has secretly won the Prime Minister's trust and can choose his side at any time. He has even hinted on several occasions that the princes and princesses are not of royal blood, but are the result of your affair with Jaime.

Imagine what would happen to you if he chose to join forces with the Stark family to take control of King's Landing, and His Majesty the King were to die unexpectedly.

What about your children?

Don't ever think that you're the only smart person in the world. Your little tricks have been seen through by many people. The reason they haven't exposed you isn't because they don't know, but because they see it as profitable.

Someone once said that chaos is a ladder, a ladder to power.

You've created chaos with your own hands, but you weren't prepared for it. What is that if not stupidity?

I apologize if my words were a bit harsh, but please convey them to your father verbatim. I believe the wise Duke Tywin will understand what I mean.