Azeroth: Starting with Eagle Eye in the Necropolis.

He's only been learning from me for half a year! And Rhodes has already made such progress. No wonder he was chosen by Azeroth and personally received life energy from Azeroth. His life essence is far stronger than that of other demigods.

“You flatter me, Professor Cenarius. If you need, I can teach you this technique. Although you can’t summon a wooden giant as big as me, forty or fifty meters shouldn’t be a problem,” Rhodes said.

Just like summoning clay giants, this move can also be used on Cenarius.

"No need for modesty. With a perfect energy circulation system, Rhodes, the war colossus you created is already qualified to stand in mythical-level battles."

Unfortunately, other druids cannot learn this spell, and even ordinary wilderness demigods cannot use it; it is a spell unique to Rhodes.

Rhodes floated down from the top of the wooden giant's head, and the huge wooden giant vanished instantly.

The Wood Giant is a monster created by consuming a large amount of life energy, so it cannot be summoned every time and treated as a consumable.

Therefore, Rhodes used some spatial means to directly place the Wood Giant into his own system space, in the town of Heroes of Might and Magic.

If needed in the future, I can just summon it from the Heroes of Might and Magic system space to fight. Normally, this wooden giant can be rooted in the city and doesn't need my care at all.

“I also want to thank my teacher for his guidance,” Rod said sincerely. “Without the deep understanding of life energy I’ve gained over the past few months, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve this level of energy manipulation.”

Now that he can use Holy Light and life energy skillfully, the next step is to learn how to control other forces. Rhode plans to learn the power of arcane order, first mastering the three more positive forces, and then venturing into death, fel energy, and shadow.

Cenarius's massive stag head shook: "It's your own talent and creativity. I've taught countless druids, but you're the first to combine the forces of nature, the power of the Holy Light, and... that unique summoning system to this extent."

Having a vast amount of life energy is one thing, but Rhodes' own talent should not be underestimated.

Malfurion then walked over, his face still showing lingering shock: "Junior Brother Rhodes, that attack just now... if it were me, I probably wouldn't have been able to withstand even the aftershocks. I wonder when I will be able to possess such power?"

Rod smiled and said, "Senior brother, the strength of one's power does not depend entirely on the time it takes to accumulate, but more on the way one understands and uses it. Your talent in communicating with nature is far beyond my reach."

If there's an opportunity in the future, I will make you even stronger.

These were not mere polite words; Rhodes meant them sincerely.

In fact, the best way to give an ordinary mortal life great power is to infuse it with primal forces, which can be done by any of the six fundamental forces in the universe.

If I were to advance further in the future, I could even emulate Azeroth's method of creating demigods, infusing Malfurion with life energy to bring him to the level of an ordinary demigod—this is entirely feasible.

I don't know exactly when the War of the Ancients started, but judging by the timeline, it should have begun. It's been more than half a year since I left Azshara's palace, and seven months have passed since I focused on life energy and studied under Cenarius.

"Haha, you don't need to comfort me. I, Rhodes, will still continue to follow the path of the Druid, but I estimate that at most I'll only reach the Grand Druid Legendary level," Malfurion said, waving his hand.

Once a druid's magic reaches a certain level, unless they receive the power of the life source, they will reach their limit and can only study various magical properties.

“I keep my word, Senior Brother Malfurion. By the way, has there been any news from Azshara’s palace lately?” Rhodes asked.

“I was just about to tell you this, Rhodes. The energy of the Well of Eternity has been very unstable lately. Azshara and those Highborne mages are summoning something, but it's extremely dangerous. The whole of nature is feeling uneasy,” Cenarius said.

“I have been studying under you for half a year, Master Cenarius. Perhaps I should go back and take a look, and while I’m at it, investigate what’s going on in Azshara’s palace,” Rhodes said after a moment’s thought.

Chapter 361 First Encounter, Eggman Chasing Tyrande

Cenarius's words sent a chill down Rhodes's spine. The unstable energy of the Well of Eternity was undoubtedly a harbinger of a massive invasion by the Burning Legion. With Azshara's tacit approval and even her guidance, the Highborne were tirelessly using the Well's energy to construct a stable portal to the Twisting Nether. Sargeras's avatar and even the main force of his legion were stirring with anticipation.

After traveling to the ancient era, Rhodes stayed in Azshara's palace for almost four months. After that, he came to Cenarius to study life magic. More than 10 months have passed, and it will soon be a year. Speaking of which, the trio of time travelers (Rhonin, Krasus, and Broxigar) should be arriving soon. Rhodes thought he would be with the trio, but he didn't expect to arrive before them.

The Burning Legion has officially invaded, and I can reap some rewards. This time, Rhodes even wants to be bold and challenge Sargeras.

Cenarius explicitly stated that the orc hero Broxigar did not jump into the portal and sacrifice himself on the battlefield of the War of the Ancients.

“Teacher, I also think it’s necessary to investigate. I agree with Rhodes’s statement, and I can go with Rhodes,” Malfurion said.

"You're right, Rhodes. I have nothing more to teach you now. From now on, you'll have to explore the path of life on your own."

"How do you plan to investigate?" Cenarius nodded and asked.

"The disturbances at the Well of Eternity are no small matter. Queen Azshara and her advisors... have likely embarked on a dangerous path. I must return, at least to find out exactly what they are doing and to what extent."

"Before I left, I fought a High Elf mage named Savas. In addition to using arcane magic, he also used fel energy, a very evil power," Rhodes said.

“No, your identity is too special. Azshara doesn’t like druids, and besides, you are my disciple. Rhodes was Azshara’s advisor before, so he was fine, but it’s not suitable for you to go.”

"Perhaps we need someone who understands the internal situation and can provide a legitimate identity to cooperate with Rhodes," Cenarius said, looking at Malfurion.

If any major war were to occur in the future, this disciple of mine would be more suited to leading the druid legion than to carrying out infiltration missions; Illidan might be a better fit for that role.

Just then, Malfurion seemed to remember something, and his eyes lit up: "I understand what you mean, teacher! Illidan sent a message a few days ago saying that he had finished his shift at the outer watchtower and returned to Suramar. Moreover, because of his 'outstanding performance' in arcane research recently, he was promoted to a subordinate research group of the court mages, and can access some non-core but not peripheral matters."

He sent a messenger yesterday saying he wanted to return to the Tree Dwelling in the Woods… well, mainly to see Tyrande.”

Malfurion's speech was somewhat unnatural. The two brothers used to have a good relationship, but things changed as they gradually entered adulthood.

Both Illidan and Illidan love Tyrande, and I respect Tyrande's choice. No matter who she chooses, Malfurion will give his blessings.

Compared to the immature and even somewhat impulsive Illidan, Tyrande preferred him. Later, the two became apprentices of Cenarius, and Malfurion learned exceptionally well. Cenarius praised him highly, but Illidan was not interested in life magic and was unwilling to follow the druid's path. Instead, he wanted to pursue the power of arcane magic, believing it to be far superior.

Cenarius was very disgusted by this, so he severed his master-disciple relationship with Illidan and sent Illidan to Azshara's capital to pursue his magical path.

This created a natural opportunity for Tyrande and Malfurion. The Priestess of the Moon and the Druid were already close, and the two had interactions with each other. Gradually, their relationship began to develop in the direction of lovers. By the time Illidan discovered all this, it was too late to turn back.

Thus, the relationship between the two brothers began to deteriorate completely, but when it comes to matters of principle, Illidan should be able to reach an agreement with him.

Upon hearing Illidan's name, Rhodes was filled with emotion, realizing that 1 years later, he and Illidan would be close allies.

In Rhodes' future timeline, the name Illidan Stormrage represents countless legends, controversies, sacrifices, and redemptions.

He was seen as a traitor, a prisoner, and a savior by the night elves.

Rhodes and he had joined forces many times on the battlefield ten thousand years later to fight against the Burning Legion, wipe out the Dreadlords, and even attack the Black Temple together, facing Kil'jaeden together.

Illidan also helped manage the "Great Demon Hunter" force under Rhodes, which was specially trained and incorporated some of the skills of demon hunters.

Unexpectedly, after spanning tens of thousands of years, my "first" formal meeting with this old friend would take place under such circumstances.

“Illidan… if it were him, he might indeed be able to provide considerable assistance,” Rhodes said.

"In that case, Malfurion, contact Illidan and arrange a meeting place. Don't stay in the trees in the forest; the demigod aura and natural energy there are too concentrated, which could easily attract unwanted attention. Let's meet at the edge of Ashenvale, in the woodland near Azshara where the energy influence of the Well of Eternity is weaker."

“Yes, teacher.” Malfurion nodded in agreement.

The three of them discussed some details and then left the demigod's territory. This time, only Rhodes and Malfurion were on the mission.

Illidan and Cenarius did not have a good relationship; in fact, it could be described as extremely bad. The demigod did not want to see him.

On the eastern edge of Ashenvale lies an ancient woodland relatively less affected by the surging energy of the Well of Eternity. The trees here remain tall, but occasionally an unnatural purple arcane light flows through their branches and leaves. In addition to the fresh scent of grass and trees, the air is also filled with faint arcane echoes from afar.

When Rhodes and Malfurion arrived, some people had already gotten there.

Moonlight filtered through the gaps in the leaves, casting a soft glow on Tyrande Whisperwind's white priestess robes and gilding her serene and beautiful face.

Standing beside her, speaking with almost exaggerated enthusiasm, was a night elf male who bore a striking resemblance to Malfurion—tall and slender, yet possessing a completely different aura—Illidan Stormrage.

Malfurion was as steady as a mountain, possessing the natural affability and tranquility unique to Druids; while the one before him exuded a flamboyant confidence, even a hint of sharpness, in every gesture.

At this time, Illidan was not yet the demon hunter with blindfolds, demon tattoos, and the Warblade of Azzinoth; he seemed to be a completely different person from the one he knew 1 years later.

Instead, he was a talented, ambitious young night elf mage whose eyes still shone with golden arcane light.

“My dear Tyrande, look! This is the latest ‘Twilight Moonshadow Crystal’ refined by the Royal Workshop. Its purity far surpasses that of ordinary moonstone.”

It also contains a small tranquility spell circle, making it ideal for wearing when you are praying and meditating to the moon goddess.

To make it easier for you to feel Elune's comfort... I specially applied for a research sample and wanted to bring it to you as soon as possible!

"Only a devout and... beautiful priestess like you is worthy of its glory!" His tone was fervent, even carrying a touch of boyish awkwardness and flattery, his gaze fixed on Tyrande's face as if nothing around him existed.

Completely ignoring Rhodes and Malfurion who had already walked up to him, it has to be said that Illidan is truly obsessed with Tyrande.

Tyrande wore a polite but slightly helpless smile, took a half step back, and gave Malfurion and Rhodes an awkward smile: "Thank you, Illidan, you're always so... thoughtful, but this is too valuable, a research sample from the court, would it be inappropriate for me to accept it?"

Although the crystal is beautiful, Tyrande has no intention of taking it.

Rhodes shook his head helplessly. "This idiot, look at which moon priest is wearing such elaborate ornaments. These moon priests love to be close to nature and peace."

Exquisite decorations are things that only high elves would like. Instead, you would be more pleased to send Tyrande a bouquet of flowers.

“Perfect! Absolutely perfect!” Illidan immediately replied, his golden eyes gleaming.

"You are a high priestess of Elune! What is a single crystal? Once I establish myself in the court and gain more authority, I will have better things..."

"Ahem!" A cough that was clearly tinged with displeasure interrupted Illidan's words.

Malfurion and Rhodes emerged from the shadows of the trees. Malfurion's expression was rather unpleasant. Anyone would be unhappy to see their younger brother so enthusiastically "fawning" over a woman with whom they had already severed ties.

Rhodes followed behind, watching the scene with great interest, and couldn't help but think to himself: 'Goodness, as expected of the young Eggman, this offensive is going all out, and his thick skin is starting to show... But Tyrande doesn't seem to be buying it at all.'

To flirt like that in front of her own brother shows she doesn't consider Malfurion an outsider, or perhaps she simply doesn't even notice her relationship with Malfurion.

Hearing the cough, Illidan stiffened slightly and quickly turned his head. When he saw Malfurion, the eagerness in his eyes instantly cooled, replaced by displeasure.

When his gaze fell upon Rhodes, this stranger, he immediately became wary, his pupils slightly contracting as if he sensed the extraordinary, restrained yet powerful aura emanating from Rhodes.

At this moment, Rhodes was radiating a rich life force, almost as strong as Cenarius's. This greatly surprised Illidan. Who was this?

Could the rumors be true, and a new Wilderness Demigod have recently emerged?

Chapter 362 Persuasion, Return to Azshara Royal City

About six months ago, the life force of the entire Azeroth surged violently, and many mages among the Highborne felt this life fluctuation.

Moreover, for some unknown reason, the Wildlands crew gathered together and then engaged in an earth-shattering battle on the vast sandy land outside Ashenvale. Judging from the remaining evidence at the scene, at least five enormous creatures fought.

Afterwards, some local intelligent beings, such as bear monsters and boar people, confirmed this. It was indeed the Wilderness Demigods who fought here. The boar demigod, the giant bear demigod brothers, the wolf demigod, and a dragon demigod who had only recently been born fought.

A world-shattering battle unfolded, altering the local landscape and adding a new candidate to the ranks of the wilderness demigods.

The being before him was a race completely unknown to Illidan.

They are somewhat similar to the night elves in terms of physique, but they do not have long ears, their limbs are slightly shorter than those of the night elves, and their eyes do not shine with arcane light. Wild demigods and those guardian dragons dream of having the ability to transform into intelligent beings.

Therefore, Illidan suspected that the mysterious person in front of him was a demigod of the wilderness.

"Let me introduce you to Illidan. This is Rhodes, my junior brother, Cenarius's new disciple, and also a newly promoted Wilderness Demigod."

"This is my brother Illidan. He's different from me. I chose a natural life path and practiced the druid way, while he chose to study magic and spells," Malfurion said, coughing twice.

At the same time, Illidan and Rhodes were briefed on the other party's situation.

Rhodes' identity as a demigod of the Wildlands still needs to be kept secret for now. Originally, Cenarius and Malfurion's idea was for Rhodes to suppress his life force and disguise himself as an ordinary person, without revealing Illidan Rhodes' true identity.

However, Rhodes refused. If he were to cooperate with Illidan but deceive him, it would clearly be disrespectful to him. After returning to Azshara's capital city...

Rhodes would naturally conceal the life force of a demigod within him. The idea of ​​an ordinary mortal ascending to become a demigod of the wilderness is something like a myth among the High Elves, and no one would believe it. So there's no need to worry about anyone having doubts.

Illidan scrutinized Rhodes very carefully, but he simply couldn't understand why this man had become a Wilderness Demigod, or what had happened to bring about such a being.