The Paladin in the Abyss

The two succubi who suddenly appeared were none other than Lancelot and Kalalin wearing Transformation Rings.

There are many types of magic items, with a myriad of effects, but the most common are those that have a fixed spell. The production process is very similar to that of creating a Magic Scroll, except it is more like micro-sculpting rather than writing, so as long as it is within their capabilities, Scholars are better at creating magic items than Mages.

Transmutation Spell is a Second Circle spell, and Kalalin had no problem handling it. The casting medium involves part of the body of the creature one intends to transform into, and they used hair provided by Tijana.

Tijana was no ordinary Succubus. Even without considering her astonishing Charm, her combat prowess was exceptional. Although she couldn't compare with those Lords who reigned over entire layers of the Abyss, she was definitely on par with the average Demon Lord, which is incredible for a Succubus not known for their combat abilities.

Correspondingly, her hair contained powerful energy, making the effect of the Transformation Ring exceptionally good; not only did the appearance after the transformation attract attention, but the aura was also indistinguishable from an ordinary Succubus.

The Transmutation Spell also affected the user's clothing and armor. The Full Body Armor that Lancelot was wearing remained, albeit in a female style, but its design was assertively provocative, likely compromising its protective functions; Kalalin's robes had turned into a semi-transparent thin veil, definitely seductive to behold.

"It seems this spell works," said Lancelot, feigning calm, as he reached to adjust the limited-coverage Breastplate he was wearing.

This action caused Phil and old Reap, who had just caught their breath, to feel a surge of blood to the head, almost fainting once again.

Lancelot (now should be called Lansna in the form of a Succubus), shrugged his shoulders and took off the ring, reverting back to his human form. Kalalin also removed his ring, cancelling the effect of the Transmutation Spell.

"This must be a devil's idea," Phil finally regained his ability to speak, "It's too cruel. I feel like I fell in love with a fake illusion, the feeling is too surreal."

"I have to admit, you were absolutely beautiful after the transformation. For a moment, I even felt the beastly power inside me losing control," the bartender spared no praise for Lansna, "Those Succubi who occasionally come to the bar for fun are nothing but vulgar compared to you. I fear I can never forget the visage from just now."

"Ahem, it's just a prop for transformation..."

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"Well." Old Reap shook his head regretfully, "With this, getting in shouldn't be a problem. If you're careful, you can completely sneak in undetected to complete the mission."

"But we are completely in the dark about the inside of the Succubus Palace. Once inside, we will be blindly fumbling," Lancelot looked at old Reap expectantly, "Do you have any information you can share about this?"

"I don't know much," the bartender shook his head, "Most of those who provide services for the Succubi inside are strong and robust slaves who are said to have received a lot of specialized training and possess a slew of special... techniques.

The Succubus Palace initially only served to entertain Lord Molo's distinguished guests, but as its reputation grew, it opened up for business to outsiders; there are even Witches from the Prime Material Plane who specifically come to spend a fortune. If I were you, I'd try to avoid conflicts with other patrons."

"It looks like there won't be a problem blending in," Lancelot nodded, "Do you know where the Cross Pickaxe is located?"

"Sorry, I have no idea about that," Reap spread his hands, "The rumors about that thing also come from the Succubi who have been there. They probably heard it from the slaves they serve."

"So, once we're inside, we need to take control of a slave and get the information from him," Lancelot nodded, "I guess those more popular slaves would have frequent opportunities to come into contact with the Cross Pickaxe, and finding a secluded room in the Succubus Palace wouldn't be difficult."

"You mean you can still use your Charm abilities after transforming?" Phil looked at Lancelot in surprise, "Those slaves inside might be immune to Charm spells, since they are, after all... well-experienced."

"What are you thinking? Transmutation Spell only changes appearance, it doesn't grant spell-like abilities," Lancelot gave Phil an annoyed glance, "Kalalin has several spells that work well together, and since we'll be outnumbered, we might as well try out a few different ones."

"Alright," Phil scratched his head, "You guys probably won't engage in any fighting before getting the Cross Pickaxe, so the remaining question is how we're going to retreat."

"This is where you excel," Reap suddenly spoke up, "But can I make a small request? When you plan the retreat route, could you possibly avoid my tavern as much as possible?"

"Why?" Lancelot was somewhat astonished, "Are you worried that it might expose you?"

"It's got nothing to do with that," Reap shook his head as if seeing through Lancelot's thoughts, "His retreat plans always involve a lot of explosions, and you'll understand when it happens."

"What do you know! Explosions are the greatest phenomenon in the universe! It's just that you fear this mighty force, which is why you're biased against explosions!" Phil protested vehemently, "Is there anything better than an explosion? That's a pre-planned explosion! BOOM, and the enemies who were fiercely chasing you are suddenly blown sky-high. Could there be anything better than that?"

"Um..." Kalalin timidly interjected, "What was the reason for ending your career as a secret agent, again?"

"Who said my career as a secret agent is over? Who said that?" Phil glared at Kalalin, "I've never left active duty! It's just that I'm not needed for the usual minor tasks, Lady Tijana highly values me, didn't she send me out again?"

"I don't care! Just keep away from my tavern!" Reap shouted at the Goblin, "What the hell did Molo, that ass-selling old thing, do to make Lady Tijana let you out!"

"Everyone, calm down!" Lancelot had cast a Soundproof Barrier spell as soon as the two started arguing and hurriedly interjected to stop the increasingly fierce dispute, "If properly arranged, explosions can indeed be very effective. We'll plan the route in advance and make sure to avoid your tavern as much as we can."

"Well said!" Phil looked gratefully at Lancelot, as if he had found a kindred spirit, "Sir Lancelot, you're the one who truly understands!"

"You still don't get it," Reap shook his head, "Do you know Boulder Town? Blackflame Castle? Or High Tower City? Have you heard of any of them?"