Chapter 40

Carl opens mysterious boxes from recent conquests, including a sentient, terrified spellbook that summons a creature called Little Günter. Katia arrives to help Carl learn the spell and begins tattooing him with Li Na's blood to grant him a level-13 skill, while various preparations continue at the base. Carl is then transported to a warlord council meeting at the production facility, marking the beginning of Operation: Snake Pit.

Carl communicates with Donut about base construction and magical items acquired from King Rust. He examines a spellbook from his 1914 box that manifests as a living, panicked creature with centipede-like legs and a European accent, refusing to be read and leaking black liquid. The book contains the spell "Run, Little Günter, Run," a summoning spell that creates a weak creature to carry stored attacks toward designated targets. Katia arrives and begins charging Donut's tiara with absorption jewels on magical pillows, gradually accumulating buffs. She and Carl discuss the increasingly bizarre nature of recently discovered spells. Katia reveals that Li Na has been distant since Carl consumed her brother's eye but is not angry with him, understanding it was involuntary. They prepare to give Carl a permanent tattoo using ink made from Li Na's blood, which will grant him a level-13 skill. Carl decides the design should be a chain-shaped dragon on his right arm. Katia worries about her tattooing ability, but proceeds despite Donut's remote oversight demands. After Carl showers, tension fills the room as Louis, Elle, Imani, and Katia wait. Zev contacts them about the mandatory warlord council meeting at the production facility, confirming all warlords except Juice Box will attend in separate randomized rooms, with Ferdinand present in Carl's room. The chapter ends as Carl is teleported away, initiating Operation: Snake Pit.