1BBh7taY

1Chapter 1473: Quarantine
2Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
3
4“Is that so? King’s City has already toppled…”
5
6In the Rose Café, Valkries slowly put down the cup in her hand and turned to look out the window. It was drizzling in the Dream World and the water droplets on the glass pane was coagulating bit by bit before slipping down. Gradually, they melded with the reflection of her side profile.
7
8Her eyes were filled with mixed feelings.
9
10In fact, when Roland informed Valkries over the phone, he could sense her churning emotions. Later, she arrived extremely quickly, to the point of her trousers being stained with mud. However, when they really met, she did not take the initiative to ask and instead, mostly listened to his recount. Such a contradictory attitude was rare for Nightmare Lord.
11
12“Due to the limitations based on the conditions, we have not been able to investigate the outcome. However, from the subsequent reports, it’s likely that Mask was on the Deity of Gods. This implies that all the obstacles that stand in our way of heading to the Bottomless Land is eliminated. We are one step closer to the truth.”
13
14Roland did not say any words of consolation.
15
16This was the price of attempting to end the Divine Will, and since the demons had paid a much greater price, any form of consolation would be a cheap form of pity.
17
18In consideration of Nightmare Lord’s pride and dignity, she absolutely didn’t wish to hear anything like that.
19
20“Of course, I do not know what will happen when we reach there, but as long as we can escape the repeating war, I will definitely abide by my promise. What’s left are the clues to Mist Island and our considerations that the Sky-sea Realm has once appeared on the island…”
21
22“The demons will not help you in the battle with the Sky-sea Realm.” Valkries interrupted for the first time. “Even without a King, the leaders will not accept the new situation so readily. Hackzord might use my name to maintain order in the army, but only barely. You will have to rely on your own strength to eliminate the hybrids that crawl out of the sea.”
23
24Thinking back to the distance between Neverwinter and the Land of Dawn’s north shore, Roland could not help but frown. The floating island’s main force was the Aerial Knights, but solely relying on the air force was impossible for them to occupy the ground.
25
26“However, gaining the support of one or two people isn’t impossible,” Nightmare Lord added. “For example, Sky Lord and Silent Disaster.”
27
28“You mean…”
29
30“The Western Front army is still under Hackzord’s command. This means that you can pass through the continent ridge that connects the south and north. With the help of a Distortion Door, it wouldn’t be too far a distance.” Upon saying that, Nightmare Lord’s mood had returned to normal. “Therefore, as long as you quickly move your troops to the Everwinter’s Northern Region, you should be able to chase up to the floating island.”
31
32“Teleportation… That’s a workable plan.” Without a doubt, since Valkries had mentioned it, it clearly meant that she planned to discuss it with Hackzord personally. As such, the plan was highly likely to be confirmed. Although it wasn’t a joint operation against the Sky-sea Realm, it was already extremely ideal for them to go this far. “Thanks a lot,” Roland said with a nod.
33
34“I’ve said it before. All of this is for the race. You don’t have to thank me.”
35
36“I know, but the ultimate beneficiaries includes us humans. Therefore, regardless of whether you need my thanks, I’ll still say it out.”
37
38“It’s up to you.”
39
40The two looked at each other for a while as the café turned silent.
41
42“… Is that all you wish to say?” Valkries asked moments later.
43
44“I actually had many things to say, but I don’t think you would like to hear them,” Roland said frankly.
45
46“Humph.” She revealed an “at least you know better” look. “In that case, go ahead and busy yourself. I believe there will be many things for you to deal with after the battle?”
47
48“Indeed.” It was especially easy for him to talk to someone smart. Roland looked at the clock on the wall. He had been in the dream for three hours and twenty minutes. According to the time difference between the two worlds, the celebration likely hadn’t ended. “Then, I’ll first make a… Oh?”
49
50He suddenly noticed that there was a commotion in the alley in the district.
51
52Despite it drizzling, people were still walking out of the stores and gathering on the streets. The people holding umbrellas had placed their umbrellas to the side and taken out their cellphones. Their gazes simultaneously looked up into the sky as though they had seen something incredulous.
53
54“What are they doing?” Valkries also noticed this.
55
56“No idea. I’ll go out to take a look.” As Roland spoke, he got up and left the café. Soon, he stood rooted at the door. Far into the distance, he saw a thin red line rise up into the sky. Following that, it connected with countless hexagons in the sky, forming a gigantic “umbrella” that blanketed the sky!
57
58“What’s that? A new laser show?”
59
60“But isn’t its range a little big!?”
61
62“I don’t know where that light comes from. The city center isn’t in that direction.”
63
64“Should we go to a major street to take a look?”
65
66There were discussions everywhere. The suggestion of going closer quickly won the agreement of everyone. A small crowd began moving out of the district as more curious onlookers joined. It left the alley packed.
67
68“That’s no laser show,” said Valkries who had followed Roland out.
69
70“I think so too.” Roland frowned. Even though there were rain clouds blanketing the sky, it was still day time. There was no laser that could be this bright. Furthermore, the red beam was coruscating, as though something was flowing within it like a blood vessel.
71
72And what made him feel most ominous was the honeycomb structure of hexagon “scales.” Back when the Oracles attacked Zero, he had seen a similar scene. However, the barrier back then was like a mirror, and not something that was transparent as the one in the sky.
73
74Roland called Garcia and received an answer that the sanatorium had not suffered an attack and that Zero was fine. This relieved him.
75
76After hanging up, the cellphone vibrated again.
77
78The caller was Fei Yuhan.
79
80“Hey, where are you? The Association has sent an emergency notice. It requests all formal martial artists to immediately return to the base.”
81
82“What happened?”
83
84“Sky City has suddenly had all communications with the outside world terminated. The actual situation is still under investigation. However… Do you see the red beam in the sky? That was shot out from above Sky City.”
85
86Roland was stunned. Sky City was a world apart from where he was. How was it possible to see it with the naked eye? This completely exceeded the curvature of the world!
87
88He could not help but remember the Bloody Moon which could be seen from any angle.
89
90“… I understand.”
91
92“By the way, is Valkries by your side? Tell her to come.”
93
94Wait… How does she know I’m with Nightmare Lord? However, before Roland could say a word, Fei Yuhan had hung up.
95
96“Was it from the Association?” Valkries asked.
97
98“Yes. This phenomenon is likely related to Oracles.” Roland held his breath in preparation to leave the Dream World. This matter did not appear to be something resolvable in a short period of time. It wasn’t too late for him to handle it after the banquet. Besides, there was a huge Witch army which could provide assistance at any moment. It wasn’t like now, with only Ling and Dawnen standing guard by the café.
99
100However, the familiar dizziness did not happen.
101
102He blinked in surprise and attempted it again, but the surrounding scenery remained the same. It was as though the other world didn’t exist.
103
104Chapter 1474: Representative
105Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
106
107“What did Nana say?”
108
109Nightingale walked into Roland’s bedroom and asked Anna who was by the bedside.
110
111“Nothing seems to be wrong… Everything is stable—breathing, heartbeat, and body temperature; it’s like he’s asleep, but…”
112
113But there’s just no way of waking him up.
114
115Nightingale fell silent. Last night, no one expected the victory celebration banquet to end this way. Back then, Anna was the first to react. She made the guards and the God’s Punishment Witches seal off the area. Following that, she called for Tilly, Wendy, Iron Axe, and company. She was probably the only person who could do all of that in such a composed manner when faced with such appalling news.
116
117Unfortunately, these measures did not improve Roland’s unconscious state.
118
119“The Seagull has just taken off. Its destination, City of Glow of the Kingdom of Dawn.” Nightingale changed topics. “If Lightning sends the letter in time, we will be able to bring Nightfall to the floating island in about three days.”
120
121“Yes, there should be enough time,” said Anna with a nod.
122
123Roland didn’t have a God’s Punishment Witch’s body, and with him unable to have his meals, he needed Nightfall’s Seed of Symbiosis to remain alive. The pickup point was chosen to be at the City of Glow so as to save time. Lightning and Maggie were much faster than a glider; thus, giving Neverwinter sufficient time to first summon Nightfall and then send her to the Kingdom of Dawn’s capital where she would meet up with them.
124
125And this was Anna’s idea as well.
126
127If there was a silver lining in all of this, it was that this wasn’t the first time she was encountering something like this. Back then, after the battle with the Church’s Zero, Roland also entered a long period of unconsciousness. His symptoms were identical to his present state.
128
129That sleep connected him to the Realm of Mind, allowing him to create the massive Dream World. And this instance was likely related to the legendary Origin of Magic.
130
131“What do we do next?” Nightingale could not help but ask.
132
133At present, the ones privy to the information were the various higher-ups on the floating island. If they were to make a return to Neverwinter, there was no way to keep it under wraps indefinitely. Once the news spread, just stabilizing the situation would take quite a lot of effort. This not only greatly delayed the development of the subsequent plans, it would also introduce new variables to the demons and the Sky-sea Realm.
134
135But heading to the Bottomless Land according to plan was extremely risky. After all, Roland was the only person who was connected to the Realm of Mind. And if he ultimately didn’t regain consciousness, they would be thrown into a dilemma, which would make things worse.
136
137Apart from Anna, she didn’t know who else could make the choice.
138
139Anna quietly looked at Roland who was lying on the bed, as though she had forgotten all that was happening around her. After a long while, she said slowly, “Continue with the plan.”
140
141Although her voice was soft, it had zero hesitation.
142
143“If it’s him… that’s what he will say. Many people were sacrificed for this rare opportunity. Even if the road ahead is unknown, we have to give it a try. If we were to return because of this, we can’t guarantee that Roland will definitely wake up. Yet, the Sky-sea Realm, which has already invaded the Blackstone region, will definitely not stay there waiting for us. In the situation of him remaining unconscious in perpetuity, I’m afraid that we will not be able to launch another new expedition.”
144
145As expected of Anna… Neverwinter couldn’t help thinking. To be honest, she was more inclined to heading for the Bottomless Land. Even if Roland’s unconsciousness was very likely to be related to the Realm of Mind, then compared to the Origin of Magic and Neverwinter, clearly the former had a higher chance of resolving the problem. However, reasoning was one thing; a choice needed someone to shoulder the responsibility. Even if the others knew this, it wasn’t necessary that they were able to shirk off being conservative and choose to double down by continuing the advance.
146
147What’s more, she didn’t hesitate or show any signs of being lost.
148
149Just as she was prepared to say something else, Tilly came in.
150
151The latter’s expression was somewhat heavy. “Hackzord is here.”
152
153…
154
155At the bottom of the floating island, the region of the God’s Stone’s core.
156
157“I never expected the day of me loading up on Red Mist in human territory will come.” After Sky Lord reinstalled the filled-up gas tank into his body, he took a deep breath. “It tastes pretty good.”
158
159“I also never imagined myself to be capable of tolerating having two demons stand before me.” Eleanor looked at the duo coldly. “Just the thought of having a chance to exact revenge for the Union after centuries makes me have trouble curbing that urge.”
160
161“First, most of our time was spent in the Blackstone region. We didn’t participate in the war against the Fertile Plains. Second, doing so isn’t beneficial to you, the Union, or humanity. Therefore, you shouldn’t be venting your anger on us,” Hackzord said as he spread open his hands.
162
163Silent Disaster swept her gaze at him. “If you would just shut up, she wouldn’t have such an impulse.”
164
165“Leave if you are done. The person you are looking for is already here.”
166
167After leaving the sealed Red Mist Pond and walking into the empty cave, Hackzord could not help but frown.
168
169He saw many people. There were Witches, carriers, and human soldiers in uniform. The only person missing was the King of Graycastle, Roland.
170
171“What’s the meaning of this,” he asked gravely.
172
173With the Deity of Gods having just fallen and the human clinching a tremendous victory, this sentence filled with an interrogative tone instantly tensed up the atmosphere.
174
175“I’m Anna, Roland’s wife, Queen of Graycastle.” Anna walked through the crowd and stood in front of Hackzord. Hackzord’s height was nearly double hers, and it was made more apparent when they stared at each other. “An accident happened to His Majesty Roland, so he’s temporarily unable to meet you.”
176
177Following that, she recounted Roland’s continued state of unconsciousness and the connection to the Realm of Mind in a concise manner.
178
179Hackzord first revealed a surprised expression before it turned nasty.
180
181“So are you saying that the person my race came to an agreement with no longer exists?”
182
183“First, I need to correct what you’ve just said,” Anna said without skipping a beat. “Roland is only unconscious, and has not encountered any life-threatening danger. Secondly, all of us know what the agreement is. Even if he doesn’t wake up, I will execute it in his place!”
184
185“Little girl, do you know what you are saying?” Sky Lord laughed in his rage. “That’s something which can be done only by someone chosen by the Oracle. You aren’t even able to enter the Realm of Mind, but you wish to represent him? Darn it… Valkries was wrong. If this is the counterattack of God, then everything is over—”
186
187“No, you’re wrong,” Anna interrupted. “There’s no need for me to enter the Realm of Mind because Roland is currently in the Dream World. Regardless, he will proceed onward towards the goal. And I will represent him in executing the rest.” She paused before continuing, “I will continue the floating island’s journey to the Bottomless Land. Meanwhile, Graycastle will provide reinforcements to ensure that the plan will be successfully carried out. Of course, this will need your assistance.”
188
189“What a joke—”
190
191“This is not a joke, but the only response in a crisis!” she said without yielding. “The agreement will not end, nor will it be nullified. Viewing it from another angle, Roland has already reached the Bottomless Land ahead of us. What we need to do is rush over; otherwise, there’s no way of stopping the Divine Will and ensuring our races’ continuity!”
192
193“Heh, sure sounds nice.” Hackzord sneered. “A kingdom’s operation isn’t simple. I understand the weight and importance the King of Graycastle has on you humans. I’m also aware of the allure power has on humans. Now that he isn’t around, do you think you can control everything with you alone, and not let the entire system descend into chaos?” He looked at the people behind Anna. “By letting a young lady in her twenties become the representative of Graycastle… don’t you have a better candidate? Or are you naive enough to think that just by her status alone, she will be able to…”
194
195Speaking midway, Sky Lord’s voice gradually softened.
196
197He saw that everyone’s gazes were on him. Even though no one replied his question, silence was also a form of answer at times—the girl before him represented humanity.
198
199Chapter 1475: Change in Sky City
200Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
201
202Hackzord eventually chose to cooperate.
203
204Even though all that was needed was rational thought to make the most reasonable choice, to see a senior demon lord convinced by a young witch and have him rescind his views bolstered everyone’s chest and left it burning. They could not help but raise their heads higher.
205
206The only request Sky Lord had was to confirm the situation as Anna said, and it was permitted by her.
207
208Under the tight security of the God’s Punishment Witches, Hackzord and Serakkas saw Roland in bed. The beam of light over him remained magnificent, nearly capable of enveloping half the floating island.
209
210“If this were half a year earlier, I would definitely be overjoyed seeing this scene.” Hackzord put away the five-colored magic stone and sighed slightly. “Have you attempted to connect to the Dream World?”
211
212“Of course, but we didn’t succeed.” Replying him was Phyllis. “Our souls are no longer accepted by that world, and our companions who were in there are also unconscious. This makes it impossible for us to pass His Majesty Roland any news. The connection between the two worlds are presently severed.”
213
214“On the brighter side of things, at the very least, he has two witches accompanying him.” Hackzord shrugged and said to Anna, “The Western Front plan is a plan that has lasted nearly a century. It’s to transport the Red Mist from the Bottomless Land into human territory. Not only does it include a Birth Tower, it also has a passageway hidden among the mountains. And the entrance of this passageway is only the distance of a mountain away from Everwinter’s Northern Region. Therefore, sending your reinforcements to the Bottomless Land doesn’t require me to go through repeated hassles. If you are willing to take the risk, I can open the Distortion Door for you.”
215
216“That’s for the best,” Anna said with a nod. “I believe that with Silent Disaster escorting them, your subordinates will not mind that we are borrowing this shortcut.”
217
218By letting a senior demon lord to keep the stirring demons in place was no doubt a bold suggestion. The others could not help but break out into a cold sweat; yet, it was Hackzord who chuckled.
219
220“What an interesting young lady. It’s fine with me, but it will depend on her.”
221
222Serakkas took off her fearsome black helmet and revealed her gorgeous long hair which didn’t match her outer appearance. Her extremely feminine face surprised all those who had never seen her true face. She sized up Anna for a moment before saying, “I have a condition. When you bring Roland deep into the Bottomless Land, I wish to enter as well.”
223
224“Is it for Nightmare Lord?” Anna asked directly.
225
226Serakkas did not answer.
227
228“I agree to your request,” she said seriously in the end.
229
230After receiving an affirmative reply, Silent Disaster wore her helmet again and walked out of the bedroom first.
231
232Clearly, she did not wish to interfere with any of the subsequent plans.
233
234Hackzord seemed to be accustomed to her way of doing things. “Let us switch venues to discuss on how we should head for the Mist Island which is occupied by the Sky-sea Realm.”
235
236…
237
238Shortly after arriving at the base, Roland and Valkries were invited to a hall by an attendant.
239
240There were already many peers in the hall. Most of them were gathered in the region towards the back, while he was led to the front. The person sitting beside him was also a relatively familiar face, the celebrity martial artist genius, Fei Yuhan.
241
242After learning that he couldn’t leave the Dream World, Roland appeared calmer than he imagined himself to be. Or it could be said that, he was already mentally prepared that the Oracle would not give up that easily.
243
244If he were still in Neverwinter, he guessed that it would cause some worry, but now that humanity’s greatest threat—the demons’ King’s City—had fallen, and the floating island controlled by Eleanor made information flow isolated, the situation of him being unconscious wouldn’t result in too negative an effect. As long as he rushed for time and finished the Oracle who was secretly behind the matter, all would be fine.
245
246The three exchanged simple greetings, and although only a few words were exchanged, Roland could still sense that Valkries’s attitude towards Fei Yuhan was a lot better than what he received.
247
248When did the senior demon lord get so close to this celebrity martial artist?
249
250I’m the one was always the one providing Peninsula coffee!
251
252Minutes later, Defender Rock walked into the hall.
253
254“Everyone, we have trouble on our hands.” His opening line immediately left everyone silent.
255
256Following that, Rock pressed the control pen in his hand, projecting a few pictures on the screen behind him.
257
258After seeing the pictures, everyone drew a gasp in unison.
259
260Red holes had appeared in the city streets and they were of varying sizes. The large ones were enough to cut through skyscrapers, and the small ones were just enough to envelop a car. Martial artists were no stranger to such things. It was a phenomena known as “Erosion” that had destroyed Prism City.
261
262Clearly, the residents situated within the holes were already doomed, but this was far from being the worst situation.
263
264The pictures showed many Fallen Evils. They were gathered around the holes, seemingly trying to cast their bodies into the red void.
265
266“Sacrifice,” Fei Yuhan said softly.
267
268“That’s what I’m guessing at as well.” Roland nodded. This wasn’t the first time he was seeing such a scene. While executing the mission to annihilate the Fallen Evils, the enemies had once used large amounts of cores to trigger Erosion, summoning pure magic monsters. What was happening now simply skipped one of the steps.
269
270At present, the city they were in remained calm and peaceful, but the problem then became apparent.
271
272“These are all pictures sent from Sky City’s periphery. The invasion has left them in extreme chaos,” Rock said gravely. “No one knows where they are coming from, nor does anyone know what the situation is like at Headquarters. There are cars fleeing and refugees everywhere. Even the martial artists who sent back these pictures might no longer be alive.” He paused before continuing, “This is a war instigated by the Fallen Evils. We have to immediately take action to reinforce Sky City!”
273
274Upon saying this, the Defender deliberately glanced at Roland.
275
276“Considering how time is of the essence, the actual plans and arrangements will be provided to you after you arrive at your destination. Thirty minutes later, the transporters will arrive at the Association’s encampment. At the appointed time, everyone will set off and there must not be any delays—this operation has nothing to do with faction. It’s also the best opportunity to prove your strengths.”
277
278After the meeting came to a hasty end, Rock made Roland stay behind. “Mr. Roland… we were ultimately one step too slow.”
279
280Ever since he demonstrated his ability to absorb cores, Prism City’s higher-ups had considered handing over the remaining stored cores from each branch for his handling. In fact, many branches had done so, but with Sky City being central to the Association, they ultimately failed to give an affirmative response. They never expected the news they suddenly received to be their worst nightmare.
281
282Roland thought for a moment and shook his head slowly. “Perhaps, we were too slow from the very beginning.”
283
284Rock was stunned for a moment before he realized what he was implying. He could not help but have a drastic change in expression as he said, “How is it possible? Sky City not only has many Defenders presiding over it, and I was even on the phone with the President not long ago—”
285
286“Apart from that, I can’t think of any reason for the sudden appearance of so many Fallen Evils. Only Sky City is able to provide so many Force of Nature cores,” Roland replied. “The red beam’s sudden appearance from the top of Sky City, the enemy’s swarming of the streets, and the sudden Erosion that happened—all of this couldn’t have been implemented in short notice. On hindsight, it’s not hard to realize something. The fact that they haven’t done anything after attacking Prism City all this time makes it illogical.”
287
288“…” Rock was momentarily at a loss for words.
289
290“Therefore, the President you spoke to on the phone is either a dead man…” Roland enunciated each and every word. “Or the Oracle himself.”
291
292Chapter 1476: Reaching Straight to the Core
293Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
294
295Of course, “he” could very well be an illusion, a puppet, or something else. However, it was essentially all the same—perhaps Sky City had already suffered the infiltration of the Oracles a very long time ago.
296
297“That is a fortress that contains tens of thousands of people…” Rock murmured. With the means of an Oracle, destroying anything wasn’t difficult; after all, they were able to tear open rifts and create Erosion. But to complete an infiltration under the noses of tens of thousands of people and ultimately not be detected made them unfathomable.
298
299“I’m also wishing that I’ve made a mistake, but this is the most reasonable conclusion.” Roland sighed.
300
301The Dream World had its relatively unique laws; thus, preventing Oracles from fully expressing their strength. Whatever they wanted to do required the support of magic power.
302
303And the only places with a relatively large store of Fallen Evil cores were Prism City and Sky City.
304
305Now, the fact that the Oracles had chosen to appear beneath Prism City from the very beginning didn’t seem like an absolute coincidence. Despite being alien intruders, they were not unknowledgeable about this world.
306
307Perhaps right after Prism City was destroyed, they had already targeted the Association’s Headquarters. As for the Oracles left behind, apart from seeking a chance to assassinate Zero, the remaining ones were just a front to mislead.
308
309“It’s meaningless worrying. We will know once we head there.” Roland pressed down on the Defender’s shoulders. “Do you still remember what I said previously? Now, two worlds are fighting against God, and the Association has already contributed significantly to the Battle of Divine Will. Now, it’s time I repay you.”
310
311“Mr. Roland…”
312
313“Leave the rest to me.”
314
315Under Rock’s heavy gaze, Roland walked out the main hall.
316
317Fei Yuhan and Valkries were waiting outside for him.
318
319The former being there wasn’t surprising. As an Association member of the new generation with outstanding strength, she would definitely appear wherever there was danger. However, the latter being there was rather odd. He didn’t believe that Valkries would generate any feelings for the Dream World, much less fight to defend it. The typical person would find an inconspicuous spot to take things easy.
320
321The Oracles’ repeated defeats did not mean that they were without threat. Even in the framework of the Dream World, they were able to easily kill a martial artist. With Valkries no longer the Nightmare Lord of the past, she was not much different from ordinary martial artists having lost her magic stone powers. By heading to Sky City, she would no doubt face all sorts of dangers.
322
323“There’s no need to have such an odd expression,” Valkries snapped at him. “I simply wish to confirm what the God and Oracles you keep mentioning look like. If you were in my shoes, you wouldn’t be indifferent towards such an opportunity, isn’t that so?”
324
325Roland shrugged. “… seems like it.”
326
327As they were chatting, the roar of a helicopter’s engine sounded from the base a distance away—the moment for them to set off was here.
328
329What followed would be a hectic series of activities lasting as long as a day and a half.
330
331They were sent to the airport via helicopter before taking a private special plane to head for their destination. Finally, they were simply split into teams and briefed on the mission, then sent to the war zone via military helicopters.
332
333It was apparent that the government’s disaster response measures were out in full force. The jam-packed cars were only seen about a hundred kilometers from Sky City. As for the orderliness of the refugees, they were placed under control of the disaster-management military, therefore, the situation had not descended into utter chaos.
334
335Valkries was staring outside the window from the moment they took off. After getting on the plane, she requested to switch to a window seat. Clearly, she was filled with curiosity over such a novel experience.
336
337“Apart from it being a little noisy, the speed isn’t too bad. At least, it flies faster than me.” Moments later, she let out a sigh. “Humans indeed have unique abilities when studying the laws of a world.
338
339“You can fly as well?” Fei Yuhan asked with great interest.
340
341“Unless restricted by magic power or physical size, most upgraded demons will choose to fuse with a magic stone which brings about faster movement speed. One of them naturally includes flight.”
342
343“How’s it? Do you now know the potential of humanity?” Roland didn’t miss the chance to brag.
344
345“Unfortunately… There’s no trace of magic power on this.” Valkries shrugged.
346
347“Why do you say so?” Fei Yuhan asked, perplexed. “If a plane requires magic power to fly, then it can only be driven by martial artists like us.”
348
349“No, that’s not what I mean. Humans were able to create a machine so intricate without the use of magic power. Then, what would happen if magic power was added into the mix?” Valkries said slowly. “I’ve always been wondering what the difference between God and us is. Could it be this? After all, magic power is also a part of the world’s laws.”
350
351Roland pricked his brows up in surprise. He had the urge to marvel at how she deserved being the Nightmare Lord. In less than half a year in the Dream World, she had already learned to use a scientific approach to understand matters.
352
353As a result, the saying that longevity was an obstacle to a civilization was not necessarily accurate.
354
355More critically, it depended on what kind of people had long lifespans.
356
357The next day around noon, Roland could already see Sky City sitting atop the mountaintop.
358
359The city at the foot of the mountain was billowing with thick smoke, with explosions sounding from time to time. Clearly, martial artists that rushed over from all across the world were fighting the Fallen Evils. Compared to the evacuation team’s orderliness, this was the true battlefield.
360
361Perhaps even they had never imagined the day when the enemy would form a horde to charge through the streets.
362
363As for the mission handed to Roland, it was very obvious. It was to head straight for the incident’s heart, the Association Headquarters.
364
365The helicopter transported them to the gathering point at the mountainside. And here, there were already more than twenty martial artists from other branches waiting for his arrival.
366
367Perhaps they had been warned prior to their deployment, but no one engaged in idle talk, nor did they question Roland’s identity. After a brief exchange of words, they confirmed the basic route and delegation of tasks. Compared to the first joint mission, the team this time was clearly made up of experienced elites. Not only did they cooperate well, they were also extremely disciplined.
368
369The layout of Sky City happened to be completely opposite to that of Prism City. As the Erosion had appeared in midair, the Association had built a tower to contain it. However, in consideration of the problems arising from the evacuation and rescue operations, there was a concealed passageway connected to the tower’s peak at the bottom. As long as one was familiar with the route, they could avoid the swarming Fallen Evils on the mountaintop.
370
371Under the lead of the Headquarters’ guide, the assault force did not meet with much opposition. Occasionally, they would bump into a few Fallen Evils who were rapidly finished in a silent process. Roland didn’t even need to do anything.
372
373Soon, the assault force arrived at the isolation room at the top level where the cores were stored.
374
375It was a huge room in the shape of a drum. The metal walls confined all the fallen cores the Headquarters had gathered to date. And in the middle of the room was a mobile platform, as well as two robotic arms which could be used to retrieve cores. In terms of it being a magnificent sight, Sky City was in no way inferior to Prism City.
376
377They found a figure standing in the middle of the platform—the Martialist Association’s President.
378
379However, when “he” turned around, he gradually transformed into another person. The transformation didn’t happen in a blink of an eye, but it was a reorganization of his facial features at a speed detectable by the naked eye. His height also decreased and finally, he took on a form of an unfamiliar woman.
380
381“I’m Oracle Epsilon,” she said calmly. “Roland, I’ve been waiting a long time for you.”
382
383To have the enemy waiting for them was definitely unpropitious. This meant that everyone might very well have fallen into a trap. But surprisingly, Roland didn’t hear anyone stir.
384
385If it were Fei Yuhan, she should have drawn her sword to prepare for an assault.
386
387He turned his body slightly to take a glance, and his heart could not help but sink.
388
389There was nothing around him—not a single person.
390
391Chapter 1477: The Final Deadline
392Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
393
394“Do not worry about your companions. They have only gone somewhere else.”
395
396The Oracle seemed to see his puzzlement and volunteered an answer.
397
398“Somewhere… else?”
399
400“That’s right. This is also one of my abilities—creating illusions, misdirection, and make self-cognitive beings realize that they are heading towards destruction without realizing it,” Epsilon explained. “Of course, I didn’t really do so. I merely made them take the wrong path during a fork. At this moment, what they see is them, together with you, being locked in battle with large numbers of Fallen Evils rushing over to stop them.”
401
402“Are you trying to tell me that they are in fact very safe?”
403
404Surprisingly, she nodded. “Not only so, I have already arranged a perfect ending for your companions. The Fallen Evils and the Oracle will finally be defeated. The phenomenon and Erosion will disappear as a result. They would be exhausted from the battle, but smile happily while leaning against the walls, enjoying the pleasure of victory.”
405
406When Roland imagined a group of people flailing their arms in an empty room, to the point of exhaustion and lying down in smiles, he felt the hair on his back stand.
407
408He wasn’t sure about the rest, but he knew Fei Yuhan and Valkries very well. Not only did they have outstanding willpower, but they were also very sharp. Yet, under Epsilon’s abilities, they had failed to put up any bit of resistance.
409
410Wrong… It isn’t only the two of them. I didn’t even notice it. There was just something wrong about the whole matter. According to past experiences, the abilities of an Oracle were ineffective against him.
411
412With this in mind, Roland’s wariness instantly reached an extreme.
413
414“And then?”
415
416“There will not be anything after that. The entire world will come to an end, be it the Realm of Mind or beyond it. Everything will start from the beginning. But compared to reality, they would vanish in happiness and not suffer any pain. That is my benevol—”
417
418Without waiting for her to finish her sentence, Roland took action.
419
420He leaped up, crossing over the nearly twenty-meter gap separating the passageway from the platform, flying straight for the Oracle and punching out! Attacking suddenly while the enemy was droning on was something he had used several times to great effect!
421
422The surging powers in his body responded to his will. With a huge boom, a surging wave swept across the platform, cracking the railings, operating apparatuses, and robotic arms. They tumbled down to the storage level and produced a series of dull thuds.
423
424Even Roland was shocked by the might of that one strike.
425
426He knew that absorbing the magic power cores would strengthen him, but he never expected that unknowingly, his body had already reached such a formidable level.
427
428However, his fist did not experience the tactile feeling he expected.
429
430Epsilon seemed to disperse like a bubble before materializing behind him.
431
432“How does it feel becoming stronger? The gift I sent you is still pretty good, isn’t it?”
433
434Roland was first startled before he came to a realization what she truly meant.
435
436“Wait, that astrolabe was mailed by you?”
437
438He had once requested the Association to investigate the source of the delivery, but it was ultimately fruitless. Be it the identity system or monitors, they all indicated that the deliverer only existed for a moment. Any checks prior and after to the delivery resulted in a conclusion that the person had vanished. Now, thinking back to Epsilon’s ability, everything made sense.
439
440“It’s called Gamma, also an Oracle,” Epsilon calmly said, as though she wasn’t talking about her companion, but “something” completely unrelated to her.
441
442Roland was shocked for the first time. After confirming that he had not heard wrong, he asked in disbelief, “… why?”
443
444“Because I wish to know the answer, an answer only God knows.” Her voice seemed to drift off. “Do you now understand? I have no feelings of animosity towards you. To head to the Divine Domain, one needs the help of the Dream World to realize it. On this goal, we are on the same page at the very least.”
445
446With the abrupt twists and turns, Roland was momentarily at a loss for words.
447
448“Do you not believe me? The world wouldn’t lie to you.” Epsilon spread out her arms and said, “I didn’t summon the rift to isolate you from the world like Delta, but you still failed to see through my illusion. That is proof. It’s because I do not have any feelings of animosity that the Dream World isn’t ostracizing my abilities.”
449
450“… You are actually someone on Lan’s side?”
451
452This was the only possibility which Roland could come up with. After all, Lan had mentioned before that there were more than one betraying Oracle.
453
454“I do not know how she explained it to you, so I’m unable to precisely answer this question.” Epsilon extended two of her fingers. “If you are asking if I’m on the same side as her, the conclusion is ‘no.’ Before coming here, I did not have any memories regarding Lan. Even in Prism City, I was the one who killed her with my own hands.”
455
456Roland could not help but raise his brows.
457
458“Or perhaps you are asking if she shares the same goal as me.” She lowered one finger and said, “The conclusion is similarly ‘no.’ The reason for me doing this is of my own beliefs, and it has nothing to do with her. You can imagine it to be that I’m helping you.”
459
460“And the way to help me is to destroy this world?” Roland sneered.
461
462“You’re wrong. The one destroying the world isn’t me, but God.” Epsilon shook her head. “In order to avoid misunderstandings, I’ll say it directly. You should have noticed the changes outside. That barrier that blankets the sky can temporarily stop the burgeoning of the Dream World, so as to prevent it from touching the Divine Domain. Otherwise, even with Oracles present, God will not hesitate to destroy everything that has been built up here to date. In fact, you have absorbed an excessive numbers of magic power cores recently, and you are just a sliver short. If I didn’t guess wrong, Lan was supposed to monitor the expansion of your Dream World, but she died at my hands. Hence, no one told you what it means to ‘simultaneously’ reach the Origin of Magic.”
463
464She even knows this!
465
466“But this barrier cuts off my connection with the outer world. Are you also capable of controlling the real world?”
467
468“No, but at the very least, I know that you have already opened up the path to the Bottomless Land. What follows is just a matter of time,” Epsilon said slowly. “You probably can guess the means of how I received this information. That’s right. The content discussed by your Martialist Association and Design Bureau of Graycastle would all be reported to Headquarters, and therefore, reach me.”
469
470And that includes the Glory of the Sun project as well as the feedback of the various weapons… Roland came to a realization. Epsilon had used these snippets to reconstruct the entire scene of the outside world.
471
472“Have you never considered that my unconsciousness would result in an accident?”
473
474“That is also an unknown factor. But I do not have a better choice—only when you enter the Realm of Mind will the world be activated. Therefore, it will have to trap you within,” Epsilon explained patiently. “Thankfully, we do not need to keep waiting. The domain after a severed contact will automatically change the flow of time. As long as you wish for it, it wouldn’t be difficult to make the time it takes to blink an eye equal to a day.”
475
476Roland instantly widened his eyes, not daring to close it for even a second, afraid that centuries would have passed in the outside world when he awoke again.
477
478“Don’t worry. The thing you are worrying about won’t happen.” She curled her lips and showed a smile for the first time. “The barrier needs magic power to maintain. Even if all the cores in this store is expended, only half a month would pass when converting it to the outside world’s time… And that would also be the final deadline.”
479
480Chapter 1478: The Lights Soon Extinguish
481Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
482
483Half a month… It means that once the plan is paused or canceled,we would forever miss the deadline.
484
485Will the people on the floating island really persist on even without me?
486
487Also, what should be done on the demons’ side? With Valkries’s connection gone, would the fragile agreement with Sky Lord shatter as a result?
488
489Not to mention the Sky-sea Realm above Mist Island and the problem of actually entering the Bottomless Land.
490
491Darn it. If only I can pass these information out! Roland’s mind raced, attempting to find a way to overcome the predicament, but he failed to come up with any workable plans despite a prolonged period of thinking. Unlike any of the previous dangers he faced, he was unable to reverse the situation even if he were to destroy the Oracle before him.
492
493Roland already could sense that this was not a matter that could be solved by a single person alone.
494
495“I… don’t understand.”
496
497He said after a long period of silence, “In the beginning, all of you treated me as a destroyer that needed to be eliminated because the Dream World threatens the rules set by God, to the exaggerated point of destroying millions of years of accumulated development. Yet, for just one instance of abnormality, you are helping me enter the Divine Domain. Were all the developments from before suddenly worth nothing?
498
499“That’s not the only laughable point. Since God can turn the Dream World to nothingness at any time, why didn’t He do so in the beginning? Don’t tell me that He holds compassion!” The more Roland spoke, the angrier he became as his voice kept rising. “Countless races have killed each other in the name of the Divine Will, to the point of extinction. Apart from weathered bones and ruins, nothing is left. What kind of accumulated development is this!?
500
501“As for you—Epsilon. Since you plan on betraying God, why not go all the way? Lan did it to escape her shackles, but what about you? If you only wish to receive an answer, I don’t mind bringing one more person to the Divine Domain. When the time comes, you can ask God as many questions as you want!
502
503“Saying baffling words and doing incredulous acts, is this the unique characteristic of those who crack themselves up to be Oracles and God? You can’t even compare to mortals! At the very least, mortals know what they want clearly!”
504
505However, Epsilon did not show any signs of anger.
506
507She was not like the past Oracles, turning extremely sensitive and resistant when it involved problems with God. She even revealed a look of understanding after hearing what Roland said.
508
509The Oracle walked in front of Roland, the gap closing to the point of being just a body’s length away.
510
511“For you to ask these questions proves that you are just one step away from the answer.”
512
513The distance couldn’t be considered safe for both Epsilon and Roland, but the latter apparently didn’t take it to heart.
514
515“However, if you do not take that last step, that distance would be no different from an infinite one.” She looked up at Roland. “The greatness of God depends on what He has done, and not how many people know of it. Besides, the differences in civilizations will result in views and knowledge being completely different. Therefore, it’s understandable that you are unable to comprehend. In addition, I’m different from Lan. I’ve never betrayed God Almighty. Please remember that.
516
517“Finally, if you are already prepared, you can take that step now—” With that said, Epsilon slowly reached out her hand to grab Roland’s arm, placing it on her chest.
518
519“What are you doing?” Roland reflexively retracted his hand.
520
521“Isn’t it obvious? Retrieve the astrolabe, and finally allow the Dream World and the Divine Domain to intersect. You should be very familiar with this process,” Epsilon said calmly, as though it had nothing to do with her. “The Fallen Evils and Erosion bodies were my creation, and the cores are tightly connected together. Once you absorb the astrolabe, their magic powers will be pulled into that world. Such massive powers will be enough to make the Dream World expand again to complete the final step. When the time comes, the intersecting Realm of Mind will become the new Erosion, but this time, it’s the Dream World invading the Divine Domain, and you—will face God.”
522
523“Wait.” Roland stared at her in astonishment. “Don’t Oracles live because of this blob of magic power? Without the astrolabe—”
524
525“I’ll die.” Epsilon smiled. “But that’s only limited to the concept of death you have. As a part of God, as long as He isn’t destroyed, we will exist forever. What disappears is the body named Epsilon.”
526
527“Even so, will you be able to hear the answer?”
528
529“No… asking it is sufficient.”
530
531With that said, she closed up her fingers and stabbed her palm into her chest before pulling out a dazzling blue blob of star jade!
532
533Fresh blood splattered, some even landing on Roland’s face.
534
535“Cough… Take it and enter the Divine Domain. Everything you want to know… Cough… can be found there.”
536
537“You…” Roland was stunned. He never expected such a sudden turn of events, but with it already done, any hesitation was meaningless. If Epsilon was right, at the moment the barrier was erected, the Dream World’s flow of time had far exceeded that of reality. Even if he waited for the Oracle to die and remove the barrier, it would be half a month later.
538
539The only thing he could do was trust in everyone on the floating island.
540
541With this in mind, Roland took a deep breath and grabbed the astrolabe.
542
543The blue light grew brighter as though it was burning its last ounce of energy. As though stimulated, the heat wave inside surged out ferociously, and in that blinding radiance, he looked towards the Oracle who had blood seeping down the corners of her lips.
544
545“I wish to ask you one last question—do you think the destruction of the world is inevitable?”
546
547“Yes… Unless you can… defeat God Almighty.” Epsilon’s voice was already drifting away. “But it’s impossible to defeat God. That is… a predestined ending from the very beginning.”
548
549“But you still changed your original decision!”
550
551“All of you… have worked hard for so long, so you shouldn’t vanish without knowing why… Being able to take that final step… is praiseworthy itself.” Epsilon coughed out another mouthful of blood and barely forced a smile. “Since destruction is the end… and is destined, why should I… take any more pointless actions?”
552
553“That’s not what you really think.” Roland glared at her, enunciating each and every word. “Lan wished to escape her restraints, and you wish to seek the answer. I do not know what was restraining her, nor do I know what questions you would like to ask God, but there is one thing I’m sure of, your hopes changed, isn’t it!? It’s because both of you have the same look in your eyes—”
554
555“Sorry… That is the second question…” Epsilon closed her eyes with a smile, and when the blue brilliance reached an extremum, she slightly opened her mouth, as though she was about to say something. But before Roland could take it in carefully, the blinding light had devoured everything.
556
557Chapter 1479: A Marvel
558Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
559
560Sixth day of Roland’s coma.
561
562Anna walked into the room and saw Wendy tending to him.
563
564“Let me.”
565
566She picked up a cup of clear water and walked to the bed. After dampening a cotton swab, she gently moistened Roland’s lips. Even though the Seed of Symbiosis had been implanted in him, his body was still influenced by multiple factors; for example, the lack of water led to dehydration and cracked lips.
567
568For the past few days, Anna and Roland’s interaction time was far less than what Wendy, Nightingale, and the rest had with him. It wasn’t that she didn’t wish to spend more time with him, but that she had fixed a hard rule for herself, to only have interaction with him for half an hour a day—she was afraid that she would be unwilling to leave the room.
569
570Wendy set down her work and gave Anna space to accompany Roland.
571
572The thirty minutes were relaxed and tranquil, as though time had slowed to a crawl.
573
574The silence was broken only until a report from the guards came from the outside.
575
576“Your Majesty Anna, the investigation team has returned; the others are waiting for you at the conference room!”
577
578Anna stopped for a second, then slowly placed the porcelain cup down.
579
580“Anna…” Wendy spoke worriedly.
581
582“Don’t worry.” She raised her head. “I’m fine.”
583
584In that moment, Wendy felt the instant switch in Anna’s state of mind, her clear eyes that gazed upon Roland was swapped out for a resolved look, as though she was a completely different person.
585
586Wendy realized that this girl had grown at an astonishing rate, but upon recalling that Anna was always the first in Border Town to learn and understand what Roland thought, her progress was reasonable. Due to the relation between Anna and Border Town, the town had turned into a sacred mountain for witches, and at this moment, Anna was bringing everyone to new heights.
587
588“Go and do what you have to,” Wendy replied gently.  ( Boxno vel. co m )
589
590“I’ll have to trouble you with him.” Anna bowed slightly towards Wendy and left the chambers.
591
592After traveling through long passageways and stairs, she finally arrived behind the conference room doors. She stopped in her tracks, took a few deep breaths, and pushed open the doors—
593
594“Her Majesty!” Everyone in the room stood up and bowed at her with a hand placed on their chests.
595
596Anna did not dismiss their greetings, but instead returned the same greeting back to them—Anna knew the limitations to what she was good at, and to have everything put in order and have everything appearing clear and orderly was through everybody’s hard work.
597
598“Let us begin the meeting.”
599
600“Yes!” Morning Light replied respectfully.
601
602The investigation team for Mist Island included Lightning, Maggie and Sylvie—according to the information Hackzord had provided, Sylvie had confirmed the island’s definite position. Although her magic power was incapable of penetrating through the illusion barrier, it was as eye-grabbing as the stars in the sky in the vast ocean.
603
604Aside from that, Sylvie discovered a large amount of magic power feedback that seemed to have enveloped the sea surrounding the island, which was the reason for the Exploration Group’s abandonment for further exploration.
605
606There was no doubt that the Sky-sea Realm was related to the magic power—aside from the frequent sea ghosts, Nest Mothers and Blade Beasts, there were a few surprisingly ‘behemoths.’ Demons hailed them as Mountain Devourers and were most commonly evolved from Nest Mothers. They did not possess the ability to produce limbed beasts and blade beasts, but instead had dense armor that covered their entire body and utilized a large mouth the size of a capstan to feed on the land, They were the main force of the Sky-sea Realm to produce a battlefield suited for them.
607
608Obviously the Sky-sea Realm did not plan to give up the Bottomless Land so easily.
609
610Right as the General Staff were formulating countermeasures, Silent Disaster and Isabella walked in—it was a rather odd duo to marvel at, a human and a senior lord, to which the human was a Pure Witch of the former Church. Anyone who witnessed it was surprised.
611
612But Anna knew that the duo’s work was extremely crucial.
613
614And they had indeed come with good news.
615
616Isabella smiled at her. “Your Majesty, the test was successful.”
617
618Anna’s heart immediately relaxed. At present, what was most challenging about dealing with the Sky-sea Realm was the inability to trace the blade beasts, transferring the witches defending the Western Region would result in a defenseless Neverwinter, and thus, the most dependable method was to provide means for ordinary people to spot blade beasts. The only senior demon capable of doing so was Primal Chaos, a senior lord upgraded from an Eye Demon. He had the ability to see through all invisibility, but the effective radius was rather small and inferior to a passive view capable of seeing all things.
619
620If they were able to amplify Senior Lord Primal Chaos’s ability, it might be the conclusive breakthrough.
621
622The first to suggest this was surprisingly Hackzord, to which reminded Anna of Zero’s Infinite Sigil—this changed the plan to three parts: Silent Disaster to convince Primal Chaos, Arrieta to supply high-grade magic stones, and Isabella to conduct the relevant research. This was the reason for the strange duo.
623
624As for Isabella’s part, it was definitely the most troublesome, but it had obtained a breakthrough.
625
626This boosted the morale of the General Staff by a whole new level.
627
628At the very least, they would have some sense of direction while attacking the Bottomless Land.
629
630After going through the conditional theories, they were left with dispatching.
631
632“I hope Graycastle will be in time.” Agatha spoke up while staring at the map of the Four Kingdoms.
633
634“I believe in Iron Axe and the rest,” Anna replied.
635
636…
637
638Kingdom of Dawn, Coral Bay.
639
640White leaned on his crutches and climbed onto the deck and moved slowly towards Speedster’s bow—it was a high-speed sailboat with two masts, and although it was considered a sea-going vessel, it did not have good resistance for stormy seas, for the greater part of its travels relying on coastlines to travel. But its biggest advantage lay in its costs, compared to the few hundred gold royals required in the past. It now only needed 99 gold royals to fund an entire Speedster. If swapped for Graycastle’s paper money, one could even get a further ten percent discount.
641
642“Hey Boss!” the seamen on the deck were moving the goods saluted him.
643
644White nodded in satisfaction.
645
646In the past, hiring men would have been a large part of the expenses, but following the merchants’ increasing fondness of steam-powered boats, the price of ordinary sailboats dropped even further. This dropped the cost of hiring men to climb and hang the mast—after all, the steam-powered boats did not require any mast and thus less manpower.
647
648As he gazed towards ocean that reflected the sky and clouds and listened to the melodious calls of the sea gulls, White’s mood lightened up. From a coachman to the master of a sailboat, his personal assets could be said to have increased severalfold. Although the work still involved transporting people and that the employers were still from Neverwinter, compared to a year or two ago, it was considered an overhaul.
649
650Of course, he did not forget to purchase the steam truck of his dreams. It was just that his present wants had several new additions; for example, buying even more boats or vehicles… Certainly, it would be best to establish himself as a specialist in the transport business.
651
652“Boss, are you comparing the tough times to the sweet again?” someone quipped.
653
654The seamen knew that upon becoming happy, their boss loved to brag about his past and could go on for hours if no one interrupted him. As listeners, they would get a break from their busy work; thus, everyone would always use such an opener on him.
655
656“What are you talking about, this is the experience of life, all of you, sigh… are still inexperienced.” White glared at them. “I started driving for the Countess before working for the Church, and moved on to being employed by Graycastle before accumulating enough for this family business. All of those are not tough times, but the foundations to success, get it!?”
657
658“Yes, yes, yes, whatever you say goes!” Everyone nodded their head.
659
660“You little brats, I know that all of you want to skive.” White found a clean spot to sit down, and patted the spot beside him. “All of you, come here. Take it that I’m in a good mood today; there’s no harm in listening to me talk.”
661
662Whistles immediately sounded on deck.
663
664White did not mind too much about it; he was not a noble. If he had not made the right choice and followed the majority to Neverwinter, he might not have been any better than these seamen today.
665
666“Today, I shall talk about the achievements when the King of Graycastle recaptured the Kingdom of Wolfheart.” He mulled for a short moment, then gabbled non-stop after. He talked about the soldiers that stood in the rain and never fell, about the nobles’ diplomatic mission that ended up in failure upon the first meeting, but most of the content were focused on the shocking fleet.
667
668“You guys have no clue on how large the fleet was, a continuous and unbroken extension of white masts, longer than the sea line. Even from a distance, people would be able to see it and become stunned in place, it is hard to blame the Baron of Sedimentation Bay for surrendering to King Roland immediately.”
669
670“Is it really that exaggerated?”
671
672“Yes, it’s even larger than what I just said, Kid. I can bet you that it was the most majestic sight I have ever seen in my life, a scene that you can never comprehend even if you break your head. Unless you get to see it personally, don’t ever think of becoming like me your entire lives. Of course, this opportunity will never come in the next decade,” White said smugly.
673
674“Erm… boss, have you ever seen boats that appear out from beneath the waters?” someone asked.
675
676“What nonsense are you saying. I’m talking about actual events, not some folk lore!”
677
678“But it’s right there… across the dock, and… it looks like there’s more than one…” The person who posed the question stuttered.
679
680“Did you drink too much last night?” White stood up and pushed the seamen around him aside. As he laid his eyes upon the sea, he was immediately stunned.
681
682He saw a colossal “door” appear over the water surface.
683
684The ships that hung the banner of Graycastle appeared like ghosts, one after another, they cruised out of the door and swept past the Speedster from several hundred meters away.
685
686Chapter 1480: Bugle Horn for the End of War
687Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
688
689It wasn’t only limited to the seamen on the Speedster; the others on the dock had also noticed this inconceivable fleet.
690
691The dock instantly fell into a terrifying silence.
692
693If the fleet wasn’t flying the Graycastle flag, as well as the people on the vessels waving at them, everyone might have immediately dropped everything on their hands to flee!
694
695Even ghost ships of legend would only appear in the foggy distant sea, so how was it possible to appear in front of so many people in the day in such an ostentatious manner?
696
697More than half an hour passed when the inconceivable door disappeared, leaving only the departing figures of the fleet across the sea surface.
698
699If they had not seen it for themselves, no one would have believed that they had appeared on the sea out of nowhere.
700
701“Alright, alright. Get back to work!”
702
703“Boss, what was that…”
704
705“His Majesty’s secret fleet. It’s best you know less of it!”
706
707After hoodwinking his seamen, White could not help but wipe the tiny beads of sweat on his forehead.
708
709He decided to restrain himself a little more in the future, so as to prevent similar incidents from happening. Even though he had similar experiences in the past, he had confirmed his beliefs. The King of Graycastle had already effected so much change in the world that the world he was familiar with was already highly divergent from what it presently was.
710
711…
712
713With the help of Sky Lord, Graycastle completed their gathering of troops in the northern ridge of the continent at an alarming speed. In a week, they managed to transport more than a hundred thousand people from one end of the continent to the other end. Of this, twenty thousand were made up of the regular corps, and the armaments and food were enough to last them a month.
714
715This was not a simple task. To raise the Distortion Door to its maximum efficiency, Iron Axe personally rushed to Neverwinter to organize the preparatory work. Kun Peng was changed into a transporter and, together with Agatha, the Red Mist was transported ahead of time to the Blackstone storage towers which had been built and not destroyed in Everwinter and the Kingdom of Wolfheart.
716
717Simultaneously, in order to replenish Hackzord with magic power, Spear, Leaf, and company basically accompanied him the entire way, causing the former to have no chance of taking a breather. He kept producing Distortion Doors, and together with the Administrative Office’s strong execution abilities, it made this movement over the continent happen extremely quickly.
718
719Despite the many soldiers of the First Army being extremely astonished at having the companion of Sky Lord and the demons in the continental passageway, Iron Axe’s lead prevented these doubts to turn into problems. And the troops slowly began spreading talk that the “demons had surrendered to the King of Graycastle and had expressed their loyalty.” Of course… Hackzord, who had received news of this ahead of time, ignored it, pretending he had never heard of such talk. He hid all the rejoinders in him.
720
721On the nineteenth day of Roland’s unconsciousness.
722
723The front lines had already made preparations to invade Mist Island.
724
725Amid the General Staff, all the higher-ups were engaging in the last round of war games.
726
727“First, Lightning will send a flare above the target to direct Lady Eleanor. Following that, the floating island will open up a path and enter the target from the west.”
728
729Edith pushed the model representing the floating island towards the western front of the map and said, “This step requires about three days. With the floating island’s mass, it will definitely be discovered by the Sky-sea Realm.”
730
731“But even so, they do not have any effective means to stop us,” Hackzord said confidently. “The Deity of Gods were originally designed to deal with the Sky-sea Realm’s lair. Although this island is a little smaller, it’s still a Deity of Gods at its core. As long as it doesn’t take a sea route, the enemy can only watch from the waters. The acids the Nest Mothers spray out will at most leave a few black stains on the rock.”
732
733“During this period of time, the enemy isn’t of much of a threat to us. The Aerial Knights’ main mission is to suppress the enemy and, with the Bottomless Land as the center, sweep out an isolation band.” Ferlin Eltek placed a ruler in the middle of the islands. “Your Highness Tilly, this will be left to you.”
734
735Tilly nodded.
736
737“When the enemy’s attention is drawn to the floating island, the First Army will appear from the north and slowly push south. The goal of the army is to eradicate the remaining enemy and occupy the periphery of the Bottomless Land, so as to seek a window of opportunity for Her Majesty Anna to find the entrance to the Divine Domain.” The Pearl of the Northern Region paused. “According to Joan’s description, the island has a receiver that’s called a Guardian. Perhaps, she will be able to open a pathway in the real world to the Realm of Mind.”
738
739“I remember telling you that the Guardian has already been killed by me,” Hackzord reminded.
740
741“Indeed, but after comparing various sources of information, we believe that she wouldn’t die that easily,” Edith said without much care. “What you saw was an upgraded demon, while Joan saw a female human. Either the Guardian is just an illusion or there are many of them. Considering how the island appears uninhabited, it implies that she’s quite extraordinary to remain there for several thousand years.”
742
743“But… Will this person really lead us into God’s domain?” Wendy asked worriedly.
744
745The venue plunged into silence.
746
747In fact, the entire plan’s second half was not supported by any reliable information. It was unknown if such an entrance actually existed. Nightingale had once rerolled the scene of what Roland saw in the Dream World to everyone, and that was their only clue. However, the content was just too abstruse and incomprehensible that even Anna wasn’t able to make much out of it.
748
749At present, the only thing that could be confirmed was that the Guardian would open a “path to heaven” to the victorious race that carried a complete legacy. As for what would happen with Roland not being in her receiving radius was still an unknown.
750
751“We will never have an answer to this question if we don’t try,” Anna said decisively.
752
753Her firm reply relaxed everyone’s shoulders, as though it bolstered confidence from the bottom of their hearts.
754
755“I have to warn you, humans,” Silent Disaster suddenly said. “This battle will be different from all the wars you are familiar with. It would not develop in steps. Once you make contact with the Sky-sea Realm, everything after that will happen simultaneously. Regardless of what you do, time is of the essence.”
756
757“Does that mean that it’s impossible for us to set up camp to slowly search for the island?” Edith asked with pricked brows.
758
759“Believe her.” Hackzord shrugged his shoulders. “Serakkas has spent most of her time the past hundred years fighting the Sky-sea Realm. She should likely be the person who understands the enemy the most among everyone here.”
760
761“Are there really… so many of those monsters?” Ferlin could not help but ask.
762
763“More than you can imagine.” Sky Lord had a rare tone of seriousness. “When they swarm over, the sea will turn into a rich blackness. If the Blackstone region were to land in the hands of the Sky-sea Realm, there will not be any obstacles between them and the Bottomless Land. Hoping to secure the island based on your idea is impossible. Without subsequent reinforcements, all that’s possible is to last longer.”
764
765“We have no plans on staying there for long either.” Finally, Anna stepped forward to cut the dispute. “The floating island will draw enemy fire and provide support, while the First Army will quickly occupy the Bottomless Land through the Distortion Door. At the same time, we will seek out the Guardian. As for what we do after that, it will depend on the enemy’s reaction. Am I right?”
766
767“Yes, Your Majesty,” Pearl of the Northern Region said while placing her hand on her chest.
768
769“Then, we shall take action two days later!” Anna said with a decided tone. “Regardless, we have to send Roland into the Bottomless Land. This is the only way to end the Battle of Divine Will!”
770
771“As you wish, Your Majesty!” everyone shouted together.
772
773Chapter 1481: Landing on the Island For Battle Begins
774Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
775
7769:20 a.m. on the fifth day of the beginning of the battle.
777
778Thick fog rose up around the floating island suddenly, and the originally clear skies suddenly turned dark. The visibility dropped to about dozens of meters.
779
780It’s coming!
781
782Everyone at headquarters realized that they were passing the “Illusion Boundary” mentioned by Hackzord. Although it was already the third day since they began taking action, the true battle was ushered in at this moment!
783
784The massive room was silent. Everyone’s eyes were staring at the screen intently, their bodies standing straight and tense. Even Sylvie’s Magic Eyes were unable to see through the layers of obstruction. This meant that they were faced with an unknown region up ahead. Regardless of what fate had in stall for them, they could only wait till the final moment to know.
785
786To the higher-ups of the First Army who were accustomed to having full information and preparation, the unease they felt was something they had not experienced in a very long time.
787
788Suddenly, a faint crow’s caw sounded in everyone’s ears.
789
790Ferlin and company exchanged looks.
791
792They were above the sea, so how could there be a crow?
793
794But it wasn’t an auditory hallucination. Soon, more sounds were added into the mix. They overlapped each other, making everyone unsure of what kind of echo it was or if they had encountered a massive flock of crows.
795
796In minutes, the cawing blended into a whole and was indistinguishable from one other. It also became louder.
797
798A staff member suddenly had a change in expression. “Those are the cries of sea ghosts!”
799
800“Sea ghosts?” someone asked. “The legendary creatures?”
801
802( B oxnovel.c om )  “No, they aren’t legends! I once worked at Festive Harbor. When the old seamen there talk about sea ghosts, they would describe them as crows of the sea!”
803
804“Humph, stop making a fuss.” Hackzord had his arms crossed. “This is just the lowest constructs of the Sky-sea Realm. Their only advantage is their numbers. They are most suitable for filling the battlefield. In a while, you will see what kind of enemy my race has always been battling—”
805
806As Sky Lord was speaking, the thickness of the fog suddenly thinned. The runway on the floating island rapidly became visible to the naked eye, and following that, the sky and sea which were further into the distance. The sky remained dark, but it looked normal at the very least. However, the scene over the sea was completely different.
807
808Everyone who saw the scene on the screen could not help but tremble.
809
810It was definitely an unforgettable sight.
811
812Countless sea ghosts propped up their heads over the sea as they cawed at the floating island. It was as though dense black pores had bloomed on the sea surface. Just sweeping across it with one’s eyes left one’s scalp tingling. The bodies which were floating beneath the water made the seawater appear a strange black color. If a description was necessary, they appeared like a nest of tadpoles in a puddle, but filling a puddle wasn’t anything to marvel about. To dye the entire sea black was truly considered rare.
813
814And the rumored Bottomless Land appeared in front of the floating island. Its size was similar to Sleeping Island. There were no signs of lakes on it, but it appeared luxuriantly green. It didn’t look anything like an isolated island in the ocean.
815
816Soon, out of the black sea ghosts surfaced the figures of Nest Mothers. They opened the rib bones on their backs and spewed out blobs of green, sticky liquid skyward! Instantly, it appeared as though toxic rain was striking the bottom of the floating island. If the humans’ vanguard was not the North Slope Mine, but a regular fleet, the outcome was obvious.
817
818“A total of 1,524.” Eleanor’s voice suddenly entered everyone’s mind.
819
820“Are you referring to…” Iron Axe said in surprise.
821
822“The number of Acid Nest Mothers.” She used her usual languid voice in a reply.“That’s not more than the shells we have.”
823
824Just as she said that, a series of salvos sounded from the bottom of the floating island!
825
826The first to launch a counterattack was Eleanor.
827
828A 152mm Longsong Cannon shot out a shell and, after flying nearly a thousand meters, it accurately plunged into the body of a Nest Mother. After the shell tore through the organs, it exploded, blasting the Nest Mother into two! Meanwhile, the sea ghosts around it were also implicated by the explosion. The flying shells left a dense array of splashes across the sea, but this time, it was no longer black but a ghostly blue due to the blood.
829
830In half a month, the engineering team’s greatest modification to the floating island was the addition of a series of cannons affixed to the bottom. It was equipped with a full array of weaponry, going from 20mm autocannons to the biggest Longsong Cannons. After all, the Sky-sea Realm’s main advantage was in the sea. Without the need for anti-air defenses, increasing the bottom’s firepower was naturally the First Army’s top priority.
831
832At that moment, the floating island was an aerial battleship, and one that was equipped with a fire control processing machine.
833
834Under Eleanor’s control, even more of the autocannon turrets joined in the shooting. Instantly, the area beneath the island turned into a land of death where iron met flesh!
835
836The salvo and the sweeping of the machine guns created a symphony that drowned out the sea ghosts’ wails.
837
838Although Hackzord maintained his composure, his expression had unknowingly turned complicated. Clearly, he had also realized that when the legacies of various races were combined together, it would generate astonishing effects.
839
840“Get the Aerial Knights to prepare for take off,” Tilly picked up a transmitter and said.
841
842According to the plan, the Aerial Knights were not in charge of being the decisive force in the operation. They were to be split into dozens of squadrons and circle above the Bottomless Land for prolonged periods of time. They would cut off any support and attack the enemy’s main forces, so as to reduce the pressure on the ground forces. These were all missions that the Aerial Knights had to shoulder. They had to take full advantage of the Sky-sea Realm’s weakest characteristic.
843
844Moments later, biplanes filled with fuel rolled out of the hangar and got into position.
845
846At 10:40 a.m., Eleanor steered the floating island into the island’s confines. The number of monsters that had been attracted by this colossal object was uncountable. They trampled over the dismembered corpses of their own kind, swarming towards the floating island, completely unfazed that they were unable to deal any damage to the floating island.
847
848Of course, this also had to do with Eleanor deliberately lowering their altitude to entice the enemy into attempting to climb up the island. However, with the machine guns’ sweeping fire, breaking through the net of destruction was not something easily achievable.
849
850Compared to the explosive western front, the other places appeared a lot more quiet. Clearly, the approaching floating fortress had attracted most of the enemy’s attention.
851
852“Let’s begin,” Anna turned her head to Hackzord and said.
853
854The latter snapped his fingers and vanished from the headquarters.
855
856Meanwhile, Primal Chaos, who had been convinced by Silent Disaster and had no choice but to entrench himself at the top of the bridge, released his powers. Through the augmentation of the Infinite Sigil, the magic power that allowed for sight swept across the sky above the island.
857
858Through the screen, the headquarters in headquarters clearly saw that what appeared to be empty ground was filled with blade beasts. Their distorted outlines slowly took form, as though they were being pulled out of their hiding spots.
859
860The next moment, Sky Lord appeared at the boundary of the Bottomless Land.
861
862He looked up to where the sinkhole was. Even without taking out the five-colored magic stone, he could recall the beautiful sight he had seen when he first arrived.
863
864“Fate as determined by God?”
865
866Perhaps from the moment he witnessed the magic glow gathered here, the ending of the Battle of Divine Will had stopped marching towards eternity. This day was inevitable. But when this moment really came, he realized that the feeling of allying with humans wasn’t that bad.
867
868Hackzord sneered as he waved his hand, pulling open a massive Distortion Door!
869
870Chapter 1482: Pincer Attack from the Air and Ground
871Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
872
873“This is Sixth Battalion reporting, we are heading in the direction of eleven o’ clock!”
874
875“Third Battalion has occupied the one o’ clock position!”
876
877“We are sensing a large magic power source approaching; we have to inform the Aerial Knights to demarcate the signal and intercept it!”
878
879“This is Lightning, roger that.”
880
881“Tanks 19 and 20 have engaged the enemies, target, Blade beasts!”
882
883Following the entrance of the ground troops, the command center immediately became rowdy as correspondents responsible for receiving information had to reclassify them and hand them over to the General Staff members, who would in turn send the information back to the sand table, so as to allow the strategists to make judgment.
884
885At present, the map had the additional of dozens of red flags and square pieces that represented different units of the First Army; for example, the infantry, artillery, and armor units. From the general situation, the plan had made smooth preliminary progress, the red labels were starting to gradually spread out from the center of the Bottomless Land.
886
887The Sky-sea Realm had obviously sensed the sudden appearance of the troops, with a majority of the monsters moving to new targets and towards the First Army. But against the encampments that quickly took form, the sporadic attacks ended as nothing but an exercise for the monsters to end their own lives.
888
889Through the Distortion Door, the troops moved into the isolated island in an endless stream. According to the plan drawn up, the operation would quickly fast-forward to the searching phase.
890
891This was the part that had the most uncertainty—No one knew where the Guardian was, how he or she would appear, or whether or not the Guardian would open the path to the Realm of Mind.
892
893“I will hand over command to you guys.” Anna turned to Iron Axe and Edith.
894
895“Must you do this yourself?” Wendy’s expression was of worry and reluctance.
896
897“We already agreed on this.” She did not speak aloud, yet her voice remained firm. “I am not good at leading soldiers in battle and am of no help here. Furthermore, the Guardian’s appearance might differ from person to person, if we continue staying in the air, we might miss the opportunity of meeting the Guardian.”
898
899“Let her go, I’ll take care of her.” Nightingale had already changed into her combat clothes, not only with the pistol that Roland had gifted her, but with a semi-automatic rifle and a sword on her back.
900
901Wendy hugged Anna. “Come back safe, Your Majesty.”
902
903“Yes, I will,” the latter replied earnestly, then turned to Phyllis. “Are the God’s Punishment Witches ready?”
904
905Phyllis nodded. “Everyone’s ready.”
906
907“Very good, let us go!” Anna walked out of the command center without hesitation.
908
909…
910
911“This is a gift from Malt.”
912
913“Thank you.” Danny accepted the round and loaded it into the chamber, then shot the head of a sea ghost that approached.
914
915As a wandering unit on the battlefield, the elite sharpshooters were free to move around and choose their own battles. Just as before, he chose the most dangerous periphery region, following behind the steel war machines that pushed forward.
916
917These regions did not have machine guns or cannons for coordinated and suppressive fires; thus, the pressure from the enemies were the highest. He had long noticed that although the tanks of the First Army were imposing, their lack of protection at the flanks and rear, especially with all the different steles that stood erected around them prevented the people inside the vehicles to notice any approaching enemies.
918
919This sort of battlefield was specially designed for him.
920
921“Pay attention to the big guy a hundred and fifty meters to your right.”
922
923“Understand.”
924
925Danny poked out from behind a stele and noticed a medium-sized blade beasts stealthily sneaking and detouring around a tank with the intent of an ambush from the back.
926
927Although the monsters were not made out of metal, their ability to kill and flexibility were not to be underestimated, especially for the scythe-shaped blade at the front that was capable of piercing into the tank’s defense upon being filled with magic power.
928
929He loaded a new bullet into the chamber and slowly raised the rifle up—but Danny did not aim for the target, and instead moved towards the sky. According to the war tactics manual’s description, blade beasts had their heads completely wrapped up in armor, preventing conventional bullets to be fatal to them. And before engaging in any attacks, blade beasts would always raise their guard against any potential threats around them, they were enemies that infantries were not recommended to fight alone. Thus, Danny had to wait for a better opportunity.
930
931And that was the moment to sneak an attack on the enemy.
932
933The blade beast did not sense Danny, who remained as still as a statue. It crept until it arrived at the optimal ambush position, spread its light wings, and suddenly pounced towards the tank!
934
935Right at that moment, Danny squeezed the trigger.
936
937With a loud gunshot, the bullet accurately struck its exposed forehead. The blade beast froze for a second as its entire body glided a few meters forward due to inertia before crashing heavily into the ground—but aside from its convulsions, it no longer posed any threat.
938
939“You’re still so amazing.”
940
941“Because you’re watching out for me.” Danny patted Malt’s head. While searching for his next target, he suddenly realized that more than ten sea ghosts were rushing over.
942
943They came while I was focused on the blade beast…
944
945“Qu.”
946
947Danny pulled his partner behind him, then leaned against the stele and held his rifle up.
948
949It was impossible to escape, but he wanted to know how many sea ghosts he could kill.
950
951But right at this moment, an unbelievable scene occurred right before his eyes. The sea ghosts did not pounce and rip him into shreds, but instead started biting each other! The ground was instantly filled with the pungent stench of blood. When the last sea ghost fell, not a single body was left intact.
952
953Soon after, a platoon walked over from their hiding spot—although they were dressed in First Army uniforms, they looked distinctively different.
954
955They were Mojin’s troops that came from the south.
956
957“Marksman?” The soldier in the lead stole a glance at his weapon and badge. “Why are you out here alone? Where’s your protection?”
958
959“Farry—” Another soldier pulled on the former’s sleeves and spoke with what looked like an apparent embarrassment. “If you don’t mind, you can travel with us for now.”
960
961“I’m not acting alone, but I have to thank you guys.” Danny realized that the warrior named Farry was not an ordinary person. “I hope that I can continue moving freely—”
962
963“BOOM!”
964
965The tank unit in front suddenly unleashed a series of salvos.
966
967Everyone turned their heads and saw more than ten hideous Nest Mothers appearing along the horizon. They were escorted by a group of blade beasts that went against the cannons as they crawled forward. The blade beasts had exposed the underneath of their opened ribs, revealing what seemed like internal organs.
968
969“Those are venomous Nest Mothers!” Farry frowned and waved an arm. “Quick, seek protection! Get those anti-demon rocket-propelled grenades here!”
970
971Those were targets that ordinary weapons couldn’t handle.
972
973The tanks started to separate and reverse in a unique order.
974
975At this time, the screams of the Aerial Knights came from above—
976
977A few biplanes swooped down and unleashed their bombs on the Nest Mothers, instantly transforming the land into a large flaming pillar! Under the intense explosion and blast, the raging flames corroded anything it touched and stuck onto the enemies tightly. The enemies screamed and roared, attempting to escape the sea of fire. Unfortunately, they were on land, where their mobility was slowed to the point of being comparable to worms. In a short moment, the Nest Mothers turned completely silent.
978
979The troops burst into cheers and whistles.
980
981Danny caught sight of one of the pilots as the planes flew at low altitudes, who had raised his thumb up, proud of what they had achieved.
982
983Following that, the formation of the Fury of Heavens changed as the planes turned and carried out the pincer attack.
984
985Chapter 1483: An Unexpected Encounter
986Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations
987
988…
989
990“A large number of enemies are coming from the east again! Your Majesty Anna, how’s the situation on your side, coo?”
991
992Upon hearing Maggie’s voice coming out from the Sigil of Listening again, Anna still felt the urgency of the situation even though Maggie had no intention to rush her.
993
994With the passage of time, the number of troops the Sky-sea Realm pumped into the battle kept increasing. They swarmed over from every direction before crawling up Mist Island. They took the positions of the fallen and charged the First Army soldiers, completely undeterred by the corpses of their own kind laying their feet. The luxuriant grass from before no longer exist; it was replaced with a pungent scorched land filled with smoke. And in this low-lying terrain, the blue and black blood that flowed had turned into puddles.
995
996The initial overwhelming advantage they’d had turned into a stalemate.
997
998Faced against the violent siege from all angles, the First Army was unable to prevent losses. Even with the aerial support from Eleanor and the Aerial Knights, it was impossible for them to get every monster.
999
1000The blade beasts that had lost their ability to conceal themselves remained difficult enemies for the ordinary infantrymen, not to mention the mutated Nest Mothers which were capable of shooting acid sprays which could corrode steel and mountain-like Mountain Devourers.
1001
1002The First Army were still able to preserve the front lines, repelling the Sky-sea Realm forces, but the risks and hazards were piling up at a speed visible to the naked eye. No one knew how much more of the Sky-sea Realm’s forces was hidden, and upon any potential breaks in the line, it could very well trigger a rupture. Maggie was reminding Anna that time was of the essence.
1003
1004However, Anna and company were unable to find the Guardian.
1005
1006“There isn’t anything in the inner region.” She sighed, but controlled her voice to make it as calm as possible. “We will be heading further in.”
1007
1008“Understood, do your best, coo.”
1009
1010“I think it’s time to retreat.” Hackzord suddenly spoke up. “Young lady, you and your race have performed so well that it has surprised me, being able to penetrate into enemy territory and sustaining to this point. It can be commended as a battle achievement. But persistence might not bring you reward; the only reason for the Guardian’s absence until now means that she’s no longer here.”
1011
1012“Maybe it doesn’t wish to be implicated by the barrage of attacks and has sought a place to hide,” Nightingale retorted.” If we give up now, that’s the end to everything.”
1013
1014“I’m warning you; although I have agreed to cooperate with you, I do not plan to die here,” Sky Lord said bluntly. “If the situation turns irredeemable, I will leave by myself. When that happens, the soldiers here will have no means of retreat. Are you sure you want to do this?” He turned and looked at Anna, who had her eyes fixated on him, but could not help but to add another line. “Of course… I will only do so as a last resort.”
1015
1016“I will not force you to stay, nor am I capable of doing so,” Anna replied. “But I hope that you understand this point, the failure in our plan would mean our dead future. It might still take the Sky-sea Realm a while before they devour the entire world, but the majority of humanity will not see that day. But to your race that have extremely long life spans, you will have to face that future—Are you sure you want to live to see that day?”
1017
1018“…” Hackzord was speechless.
1019
1020“We are not at the limits yet.” At this point, Silent Disaster suddenly spoke up.
1021
1022“What?”
1023
1024“I have fought against humans, this isn’t their limit. If we are talking about those troops there, I’m sure they can last longer.” She extended her hand to her back and drew her Blackstone sword. “Besides, I haven’t done anything yet.”
1025
1026“Take note, Your Majesty Anna! There is a group of Sky-sea Realm monsters approaching from your front.” At this moment, Sylvie’s warning came from the Sigil. “I have already informed the two closest armor units, but they are still engaged in battle. Reinforcements might take a while!”
1027
1028“Have them care for themselves.” Nightingale stepped forward. “Leave this to us.”
1029
1030“That’s right, we do not wish to lose to the monsters under such circumstances.” The God’s Punishment Witches drew their grapeshot guns as well.
1031
1032Very quickly, a unit formed up of blade beasts and Nest Mothers appeared before everyone, with two gargantuan Mountain Devourers following behind.
1033
1034Silent Disaster took the lead and charged.
1035
1036Under her summoning, dark clouds suddenly gathered overhead, gold streams of light flickered and gathered, ultimately forming a thunderbolt that tore through the skies and smote the area around her!
1037
1038This attack turned tens of monsters into ashes.
1039
1040Nightingale followed tightly behind, utilizing the evolved lines to cover a few hundred meters. She appeared behind the front row of blade beasts, and before they were even able to react, bullets flew straight into their bodies.
1041
1042She did not even bother about the outcome as she turned and continued to stride forward—unsure if it was her imagination, Nightingale felt that the Mist had turned much more amicable, as it would send out outlines of lines when she needed them. In seconds, she appeared before the Nest Mother.
1043
1044This had been Nightingale’s target from the beginning.
1045
1046Unlike the blade beasts or lower lifeforms, Nest Mothers were able to produce offspring with ease and formed the foundation of Sky-sea Realm’s strength. The death of one was able to greatly weaken the enemy’s strength.
1047
1048And it was not her first encounter with one.
1049
1050Any ordinary person would instantly feel defeated and helpless upon facing such a behemoth, but not her.
1051
1052Nightingale easily ‘passed through’ the ribs and flesh that formed the surface layer, followed by the intestines, heart, and lungs before arriving at the enemy’s core—the eye. Although it was different from the Nest Mother which had devoured an Eye Demon, they had similar compositions. With regards to the bodies of Nest Mothers, the large eyeball hidden within the body was equivalent to the brain of humans.
1053
1054She aimed her barrel straight into the eye of the enemy and pulled the trigger!
1055
1056Even before the latter could use its tentacles to drive her away, the brain blossomed with blood. The Nest Mother lost its motor functions, turning incapable of driving magic power. With the lack of magic power to support its large body, it soon collapsed.
1057
1058…
1059
1060Anna stood in place and clenched her fists.
1061
1062She was not as calm and steady as what everyone perceived her to be. She was just an ordinary girl from a tiny border town just five years ago, so how could she possibly remain cool and collected without batting an eyelid in the face of such a monstrosity? She had countless urges to retreat, but upon thinking of the possibility of Roland’s eternal coma, she suppressed her fear and clenched her fists as she told herself to persevere.
1063
1064But now, Anna discovered that the fear in her had lessened greatly.
1065
1066Everyone’s fighting form gradually turned fuzzy in her eyes. She was not the only one persevering—many others stood by her, overcoming hardships and obstacles, all for the same goal.
1067
1068She once again understood the meaning behind this battle of destiny.
1069
1070A preordained path was a type of destiny.
1071
1072Being able to rise up and resist, so to escape the shackles was also another form of destiny.
1073
1074The only difference was that the latter allowed them to write their own destinies.
1075
1076Right at this moment, an extremely bright light exploded in the sea tens of kilometers away to the north—it expanded quickly and instantly turned the dusky sky to a clear blue!
1077
1078That was the Kun Peng that had executed its task.
1079
1080The Glory of the Sun rushed out within half a month was planned to reinforce the divide against the Sky-sea Realm, its explosion meant that another large wave of enemies approached from afar, and the most critical moment was about to arrive.
1081
1082But Anna did not feel any unease.
1083
1084She welcomed the rumble without taking a step back.
1085
1086Suddenly, a girl appeared before Anna—dressed in pure white, her hair was blown up by the wind. She blocked the brilliant rays of the explosion behind her.
1087
1088“Go back, this is not where all of you should be,” the girl said gently.
1089
1090Groping the ceiling – even bumping into it at some points – she finally locates the handle. She turned and pushed. The dazzling moonlight flooded the passage.
1091In front of her was that mansion, just as Mahiro had said. The color of the walls, the shape of the windows. I have no doubt. In that case the main street shouldn’t be too far from here.
1092Pariel climbs the tall fence surrounding the grounds, lands on the other side and heads to the end of the parade on the main street where Edelweiss and the others should be.
1093
1094“Lady Edelweiss! Lord Kaien!” (Pariel)
1095
1096Kaien noticed that she had returned alone, but he supposed that he had expected this. No, he reconsidered, his prediction had taken the worst possible turn. He frowned.
1097Pariel can’t do anything but report the truth.
1098
1099“Wh-…What are we going to do? I…what should I…?” (Pariel)
1100
1101“And you shamelessly came back here just like that?” (Edelweiss)
1102
1103Edelweiss’ words were too biting. Unable to simply listen any further, Kaien intercedes.
1104
1105“Lady Edelweiss…going by what we heard just now, there’s no reason to blame her. It’s not like she abandoned him.” (Kaien)
1106
1107“This is a matter between me and my subordinate. Prime Minister Kaien, please be silent.” (Edelweiss)
1108
1109Pausing briefly, Edelweiss abruptly changes the subject.
1110
1111“Pariel, there is a big scar on your back, isn’t there?” (Edelweiss)
1112
1113“Huh…?” (Pariel)
1114
1115Pariel blinked through her tears.
1116There definitely is one. I even told Mahiro about it a while ago…but why is she bringing it up now?
1117
1118“Do you remember how and when that scar came to be?” (Edelweiss)
1119
1120“N-…No…? I…” (Pariel)
1121
1122“Is that so? I assigned you to the prince because I believed that you knew.” (Edelweiss)
1123
1124Suddenly hyper-aware of her back, Pariel asks,
1125
1126“What…do you mean? This is from when I was attacked by a monster in my childhood…” (Pariel)
1127
1128“Weren’t you playing with a boy when it happened? It should have been a boy who had a very strong sense of justice.” (Edelweiss)
1129
1130Feeling as if Edelweiss had taken a peek into her deepest memories, Pariel’s eyes widened.
1131That’s right. Even though I was the older one. Therefore, even though we were being attacked, that very small back trying to stand in the way of the monster felt so reliable—
1132
1133“…Why…do you know about something like that, Lady Edelweiss…?” (Pariel)
1134
1135“That’s only natural. After all I was that child’s, Prince Mahiro’s, wet nurse.” (Edelweiss)
1136
1137For a moment Pariel didn’t understand what Edelweiss was talking about.
1138
1139“Prince…? That boy was…?” (Pariel)
1140
1141“Yes. On that day, His Highness used his power to protect you from a monster attack. However, even though he was very young, His Highness has tremendous latent power – superior to any Majin in the royal family. And because he was so young, that power ended up going out of control.” (Edelweiss)
1142
1143What’s that? What is she saying?
1144
1145“The scar on your back isn’t something caused by a monster. The prince, who tried to rescue you from the monster, injured you because he released too much power.” (Edelweiss)
1146
1147Edelweiss took a breath and turned her eyes in the direction of the castle where Mahiro had stayed behind.
1148
1149“Injuring another person with his own hands was probably traumatizing for a child’s heart. That’s when His Highness started to hate extreme violence. And, His Highness changed after having his powers sealed by His Majesty and the court magicians who saw the gravity of the situation. If he remains like this, His Majesty wouldn’t return his powers.” (Edelweiss)
1150
1151And then she stopped talking once again, turning her eyes in Pariel’s direction. It was an unusually cold look.
1152
1153“If you hadn’t been there, the prince would never allowed his powers to run wild that day. If it hadn’t been for that day, he would have become a splendid prince who never had his powers sealed. Even if he couldn’t compete with swordsmanship or wisdom. A wave of monsters at such a level wouldn’t be a threat with his powers. His Highness should be able to take care of a few hundred imperial knights without any cheap tricks.” (Edelweiss)
1154
1155“I…I didn’t know…! A story like that…!” (Pariel)
1156
1157I don’t understand.
1158I mean I didn’t know about that. It’s because I don’t know. Something like me shaping the fate of this country…there’s no way that I would know about that. To have that forced on me now of all times.
1159
1160“Story time ends with this. Think about the rest yourself.” (Edelweiss)
1161
1162“Ah…uh…” (Pariel)
1163
1164What a stupid response.
1165But…
1166I can’t read anything from that ice woman.
1167
1168“If you are unable to protect him…if you die protecting him…even if you just leave the city right now. Make sure not to do anything you will regret. I believe that I selected you because I believe in your decisions as His Highness’ guard.” (Edelweiss)
1169
1170The real me. A Royal Knight.
1171(No, it’s different…)
1172Pariel shook her head.
1173The real me and the me as Royal Knight have always been the same person. Yes, I was just caught off guard by an old memory. 
1174In that case…
1175
1176“I’m going back…” (Pariel)
1177
1178In that case, I will go back. There’s no meaning in me staying here. There is no path for me except to return to the castle.
1179
1180“Pariel, I will accompany you.” (Kaien)
1181
1182“Lord Kaien…!? But…!” (Pariel)
1183
1184“Swordsmanship isn’t my expertise, but if the opponents are monsters, I will still be useful.” (Kaien)
1185
1186Kaien drew a long and imposing pistol from his waist. That’s not a weapon for knights or soldiers, but that of a hunter. Lead bullets are useless in a battle against armor protected by sorcery but, against demonic forces, it’s a different story.
1187
1188“If the prince intends to die, we probably have to bring him back even if i have to personally drag him back by his hair. Won’t it be difficult for you to break through that monster swarm by yourself while carrying the prince?” (Kaien)
1189
1190“While that might be true, is there any need for you to personally do this, Prime Minister Kaien?” (Edelweiss)
1191
1192“Lady Edelweiss, I have become very interested in Prince Mahiro these last few days. Therefore, no matter what…I find it difficult to believe that he is planning to simply die. As such, I wonder if it would be so bad to die so long as I get to see what he’s intending to do.” (Kaien)
1193
1194“…Prime Minister. You have been infected by His Highness’ stupidity.” (Edelweiss)
1195
1196The prime minister, who always has a serious expression, lets out a laugh. Edelweiss sighs.
1197
1198“What’s wrong, Pariel. Hurry up and lead the way to the secret path.” (Edelweiss)
1199
1200“Eh? No way, even Lady Edelweiss…” (Pariel)
1201
1202“Letting the prime minister die with His Highness will affect my good reputation.” (Edelweiss)
1203
1204I wonder why she’s so convinced that we are all going to die.
1205
1206“No, but, umm, the evacuation of the people…” (Pariel)
1207
1208“If it’s just ensuring the people leave the city, we can leave it to Minister Karlo. As for what to do after that, I would need to ask His Highness for his instructions.” (Edelweiss)
1209
1210Kaien was unable to hold back his laughter.
1211
1212“No matter what you say, it looks like even you have been infected with stupidity at last, Lady Edelweiss.” (Kaien)
1213
1214“You must be joking.” (Edelweiss)
1215
1216Edelweiss spit out.
1217In the end I don’t know whether this person is actually kind or has a bad personality.
1218
1219“Ummm…” (Pariel)
1220
1221Well, I guess that even though they both look like perfect beings to an underling like me, they still have emotions.
1222
1223“T-…Then, I shall guide you! This way…!” (Pariel)
1224
1225Running in front of the two of them, Pariel led the way back along her original path.
1226Yes. It’s just as Kaien says. It’s very unlike that selfish, whimsical prince to simply die. That’s why I have to go back. It should still be alright. He should still be alive.
1227Therefore…
1228
1229 
1230
1231
1232
1233Southern part of Mismarca’s castle town.
1234A luxurious eight-in-hand carriage pulls up into a space cleared by black knights. Getting off it, Lunas lets her gaze wander. She’s adorned by a jet-black helmet and armor decorated with golden ornaments. A characteristically long flowing robe takes the place of a skirt. A snow-white mantle finely embroidered with the family crest sits on her shoulders…the war princess gives off the same imposing aura as heavy cavalry.
1235A shield capable of covering her entire body, engraved with an angel in prayer, is stabbed into the ground beside her. A gauntlet with an exaggerated design covers everything from her right hand to her shoulder.
1236
1237“Well, hasn’t this turned into quite the enjoyable event! What’s going on here?” (Lunas)
1238
1239Reiner, who is only wearing the coat of a commissioned officer over his uniform and no armor, shakes his head.
1240
1241“Kaze is guessing that they took advantage of the cover of darkness after sensing that the presence of people had vanished since they’re all at the festival.” (Reiner)
1242
1243“…I wonder about that. So, how did so many of them flood into the city?” (Lunas)
1244
1245“?” (Reiner)
1246
1247“We only just broke through the defense gate.” (Lunas)
1248
1249Saying that, Lunas jerked her head at the gate that had been destroyed by the chivalric order. Then she looked up at the walls.
1250
1251“Having said that, there are no monsters who would try to climb over the outer wall. Of course, there were no monsters hiding outside the city until we arrived here.” (Lunas)
1252
1253“Certainly, it’s an abnormal number.” (Reiner)
1254
1255At that moment something in the upper part of the city caught Luna’s eye, and she watched it with the intensity of a hunting falcon.
1256
1257“Proceed north while repelling them.” (Lunas)
1258
1259“Princess!?”
1260
1261Ignoring her maid’s cry of alarm, Lunas jumped up with agility one wouldn’t expect from someone wearing heavy armor. She leaps from one roof to another while keeping a careful watch on the swarm of monsters filling the streets below. A few monsters fly through the air to attack her, but she dispatches them with a single stroke.
1262Then it hits her. A heavy, gas-like fog hangs over the streets. According to the legends, it’s miasma, evil oozing out from the underworld.
1263There’s absolutely no way for this to have happened naturally. In that case there must be someone behind this.
1264(…That guy, huh?)
1265A small figure looks almost bored watching the flow of monsters, abnormally calm in this situation. Lunas, who had erased her presence, lands on top of the building where that person stands.
1266A black cloak with a hood and a shaman-like outfit completely covered their whole body. In their hand is a board with a magic circle drawn on it.
1267
1268“Hmm, I think this much would do the trick…but since it was expressly requested, I think it would be best to use up all of it…”
1269
1270“What are you doing over there?” (Lunas)
1271
1272Despite Lunas’ sudden question from behind him, the other party only turned around calmly.
1273
1274“Yo, good evening, pretty lady.”
1275
1276“A child…?” (Lunas)
1277
1278How unexpected. Just going by his face, he should be 5 or 6 years old. A young, cute boy that is still innocent to the ways of the world. But then again, if he’s a Majin, I must not judge by appearance.
1279
1280“Wait? Huh?”
1281
1282Noticing Lunas’ appearance, he laughs, carefree.
1283
1284“Hee, this is amazing. To be in the presence of the Sword of Gleaming Light herself.”
1285
1286“… What are you doing here? Is this swarm of monsters your doing?” (Lunas)
1287
1288“Ahahaha… I’ve been found out?”
1289
1290The boy scratches his head and laughs. Blonde hair peeked out through his open hood.
1291
1292“Can’t be helped if I was found out.”
1293
1294A glance. A sudden unearthly gleam in his eyes narrowed in laughter. Almost at the same time, Lunas drew her sword and swung it. The remains, not of a monster but a much more sinister creature with no flesh, scatter at her feet.
1295
1296“… A shadow beast, huh? You are using something rather unusual.” (Lunas)
1297
1298She points the blade at him, and he readily raised both his hands.
1299
1300“As expected of a rumored Seven Star Sword. Though it seems wasted on someone like me…”
1301
1302However, he’s no inexperienced boy. Chantless summoning magic. And even though he was hit with the full force of my bloodlust, he hasn’t even twitched as he maintains an aloof attitude.
1303
1304“You bastard, you are a covert operative sent in by my country, aren’t you? In that case, put things in order right away. This is now no more than an obstruction to our advance.” (Lunas)
1305
1306“Empire? Ahaha, by no means! I was pretty much told to keep it secret, but…whatever. It’s no use with the rumored Princess Lunas as my opponent. I haven’t received any hazard pay.”
1307
1308“?” (Lunas)
1309
1310“Let’s see…if I had to say, I’m a covert operative of this country.”
1311
1312“Don’t screw around with me.” (Lunas)
1313
1314As she says so, the last hint of mockery finally vanished from the boy’s face. Instead he revealed a predatory smile.
1315
1316“I’m not messing around. The one messing around is this country’s prince. That guy has gone completely insane. The current situation is something desired by that prince.”
1317
1318Her eyes widened.
1319
1320“The prince has…? What’s the point of doing something like this?” (Lunas)
1321
1322“You want to know? Oh well, after all I don’t want to die. I haven’t received any hush money either.”
1323
1324He changed his attitude unexpectedly easily.
1325
1326“It’s simple. First, it’s for the sake of driving the residents, who had gathered in the northern part, out of the city even if they are reluctant, under the pretext of a festival. Second, it’s for the sake of hindering the imperial army which will likely come into the city at the same time.”
1327
1328She was becoming more and more alarmed.
1329
1330“You are saying he’s using monsters…as soldiers? Is he sane?” (Lunas)
1331
1332“Hmm, I wonder. But I told you, didn’t I? That his sanity suddenly broke. That stupid prince believes that he can do whatever he wants as long as no harm comes to the people. Neither the city nor the castle know of that fact. At this rate even your subordinates will fall into the trap, princess.”
1333
1334The sounds of angry roars, jeers and hooves rise from below.
1335They are different from vigilante corps in a remote region. They are elites, Majin and not human slave soldiers. A single black knight can slaughter five or ten monsters of that level in a single stroke in the streets. However, the circumstances of an anti-demon battlefield are usually different. I suppose they could become overwhelmed over time.
1336The presence of people in an otherwise completely uninhabited place. The monsters, which have been giddy and restless until now, are beginning to gather around the black knights.
1337
1338“Castle…you said, right? Is there still more to it?” (Lunas)
1339
1340“This.” The boy showed her the board in his hand. It’s a magic circle with a strange design that doesn’t belong to any of the sorcery schools known to her.
1341
1342“Board of Descending Evil…is it’s name. Once activated it continuously spits out monsters from a monster storage connected to the underworld for a fixed period. Since it’s a forced summoning, you can’t call anything but blockheaded monsters though.”
1343
1344These monsters not destroying the city itself…unlike the monsters I’m familiar with… is because of that, huh? They seem to be attracted to nothing but the presence of people.
1345
1346“I went and set up the same thing in the castle a while ago, but… going by the prince’s character, that’s probably not the end of it, I think. Though I haven’t heard what it is exactly he’s planning.”
1347
1348“Where did you set it up?” (Lunas)
1349
1350“Ah, you don’t have to worry about that. Since the monsters currently moving will soon run out of energy, their numbers won’t grow any further.”
1351
1352“I see. That’s all I needed to know.” (Lunas)
1353
1354A flash.
1355Blood sprays. The boy’s body was cleaved in two alongside the Board of Descending Evil. The heavy robe, soaked with fresh blood, falls down with a wet sound, covering the pieces of meat.
1356(Again…black magic?)
1357She definitely cut something, but it didn’t feel like human flesh. It’s the same kind as the one she slew moments ago.
1358Suddenly she hears a voice out of nowhere.
1359
1360《Due to the nature of my business, I have prepared quite a few measures to defend myself.》
1361
1362“Your name.” (Lunas)
1363
1364《Emilio Apricot. Owner of a humble general store. Princess, if on occasion you want to order something…》 (Emilio)
1365
1366“You are an interesting fellow. I shall remember you, merchant of darkness.” (Lunas)
1367
1368Lunas declared and leapt back.
1369She lands on the street and returns to the imperial army that’s advancing slowly against the waves of monsters. The two high-classed maids are visibly relieved to see her back.
1370
1371“Princess Lunas, just where did you…!?” (Reiner)
1372
1373“For a little business. It seems that these monsters are Prince Mahiro’s doing.” (Lunas)
1374
1375Reiner blinks.
1376
1377“No way.” (Reiner)
1378
1379True. Our country has fought many battles, but it’s the first time against a fellow who does something so absurd. Putting on a flashy show like this is certainly not Edelweiss’ style. Or does this country shelter still more tacticians…?” (Lunas)
1380
1381A pause.
1382
1383“Either way, we will advance. You guys, open a path.” (Lunas)
1384
1385Upon Lunas command, the knights ahead of her parted to the left and right. Of course, monsters charged through the space that had suddenly been freed up. The princess brandished the seven-starred sword.
1386Pouring her mana into the jet-black gauntlet, a high-capacity sorcery booster, she shows off the power of the sword that is her namesake. That wave is something a human sorcerer might not be able to accomplish in a lifetime. Even the knights obeying her tremble as their breath is taken away.
1387The princess laughs.
1388
1389“Get out of my sight!” (Lunas)
1390
1391*Boom—*!!
1392
1393One sword swing. The knights bring up their shields as a flash passes by, instantly disintegrating the low ranked monsters who have no magic to protect them from the sorcery-enhanced strike.
1394When the light fades, there isn’t a trace of a grotesque figure left in the straight line to the castle gate.
1395
1396“Now then, let’s go.” (Lunas)
1397
1398Ah, this is the true Sword of Gleaming Light. The Third Princess, who is revered and worshipped. Our goddess who guides us to victory on the battlefield.
1399Lunas calmly walks towards the castle as the knights whisper lowly behind her.
1400
1401Ricklent, the genie of time and magic, was the creator of the god of Statuses, the god of Jobs and the god of Skills – the gods who ruled over the Status System.
1402
1403The Demon King had taken advantage of an opening that Ricklent had left and added an unknown god to the system, the god of Ranks. This allowed monsters to be included in the system.
1404
1405Through this process, Titles had begun to appear in Statuses, something that neither Ricklent nor Guduranis had intentionally included in the system.
1406
1407To Ricklent and the Demon King, Titles were unknown factors, but a hundred thousand years had passed since then, and even humans had learned how they worked to some extent.
1408
1409Titles could be gained by a being if a certain number of people… at least several thousand, referred to that being by the Title. The more exaggerated a Title was, the more difficult it was to acquire; such Titles became easier to acquire if influential or well-known individuals referred to the being as those Titles.
1410
1411For example, the ‘Hyena’ Title could be acquired by an individual by being referred to as such by a considerable number of ruffians, that individual’s victims, the government officials and adventurers trying to control them – about a thousand people in total.
1412
1413However, a Title such as ‘Greatest Swordsman on the Continent’ would be hard to acquire even if acknowledged as such by tens, hundreds of thousands of people, unless one also had the acknowledgement of the ruler of an enormous nation covering half of the continent, or the acknowledgement of a god.
1414
1415There was also a reactionary effect, related to the conditions required to acquire a Title.
1416
1417Even if one who possessed a Title and gained fame was a worthy, just individual, some would hold resentment against them and others would spread false rumors out of jealousy or for their own gain.
1418
1419Adventurers working in certain nations, famous knights, generals and army strategists in particular were commonly exposed to these. They would be praised as heroes in their own nations, but others in enemy nations would resent them and consider their military achievements to be evil deeds.
1420
1421However, it was rare for this infamy to become Titles for such heroes. The fame they possessed in the form of the Title they already held cancelled that negative reputation out.
1422
1423It was not known precisely how much fame was required to cancel out a certain amount of infamy. However, it was because of this reactionary effect that the ‘Divine Spear of Ice’ Mikhail who was a hero of the Mirg shield-nation two hundred years ago and the ‘Light-speed Sword’ Rickert Amid who had been one of the Fifteen Evil-breaking Swords had not gained Titles through their negative reputation among their enemies.
1424
1425Of course, some Titles were ones that many called an individual for their everyday deeds, and nothing could be done about the individual being called by such Titles.
1426
1427This was true for the ‘Thunderclap’ Schneider’s ‘Seed-Provider’ Title and the ‘Demon King’ Title of Vandalieu, who was also the ‘Holy Son of Vida.’
1428
1429However, Heinz’s everyday deeds were those of a noble and just S-class adventurer, an honorary nobleman. He was renowned for many things, and no infamy had manifested on his Status.
1430
1431Until now.
1432
1433“W-what?! I’m the ‘Holy Mother Killer?!’”
1434
1435Heinz, who had been preparing to head to the next floor of his trial, stopped in his tracks, dumbfounded by the sudden announcement in his head. He hastily checked his Status.
1436
1437He had thought that there must be some kind of mistake, but a new Title called ‘Holy Mother Killer’ was clearly displayed in his Status.
1438
1439“How can this be…” he muttered.
1440
1441“Oi, Heinz, what’s the matter? What do you mean by ‘Holy Mother Killer’…?!” Edgar began, but he suddenly fell silent.
1442
1443“Heinz, Edgar, what’s wrong –?! This is… You two see it as well?” murmured Delizah.
1444
1445“Oi, what’s wrong with you three?” asked Jennifer.
1446
1447“Did something happen? Your expressions are very alarming,” said Diana.
1448
1449Heinz, Edgar and Delizah were lost for words for a moment… They looked at each other and nodded before speaking.
1450
1451“I, and probably Edgar and Delizah as well, have acquired a Title called ‘Holy Mother Killer.’ I checked my Status… It doesn’t seem like I’m daydreaming or that I misheard,” said Heinz.
1452
1453“Holy Mother Killer?! ‘Holy Mother’ means a mother who is sacred, right? That’s a totally evil title!” Jennifer exclaimed, before hastily covering her mouth. “… Sorry,” she apologized.
1454
1455“It’s alright,” said Heinz, shaking his head.
1456
1457The party was currently on a path inside the suburbs of this Dungeon’s ‘town,’ the one that led to the staircase that would take them to the floors that contained more trials for them. Thus, it was possible that someone might overhear them if they spoke too loudly. However, this ‘town’ was inside a Dungeon that Alda, the god of law and fate, had created as a trial to challenge the one who wished to succeed Bellwood.
1458
1459Heinz and his companions had traveled to each floor through this path for over a year now, and they often exchanged conversation with the people of the ‘town.’ Through these interactions, they had noticed that these people were illusions of people who had lived peaceful lives… probably during the age of the gods.
1460
1461In other words, they were similar to the monsters, Pure-breed Vampires and Majin that appeared as a part of the trials.
1462
1463Even if the people of this ‘town’ learned of this scandal, news was unlikely to leak to the outside world.
1464
1465“I see… Phew, I panicked a little,” Jennifer said in relief.
1466
1467“Still, this is not something that should be spoken in loud voices. ‘Holy Mother Killer’ is not a Title to be proud of, unless this is some evil god’s trick,” Diana said sternly, her face pale.
1468
1469This was a serious situation.
1470
1471In the religion of Alda, the god of law and fate, there was a pope and holy women, but none known as a ‘holy mother.’ Many of the gods of Alda’s religion were male, and many of the churches that worshipped them were patriarchal societies.
1472
1473Thus, most people would assume that a ‘holy mother’ would be an important figure of a religion other than Alda’s… They would likely think of Botin, mother of the earth and goddess of craftsmanship, or… Vida, the goddess of life and love.
1474
1475Heinz was a leader of Alda’s peaceful faction, who recognized the existence and rights of Vida’s races. Him and his companions Delizah and Edgar possessing a Title called ‘Holy Mother Killer’ could become a fatal scandal for them.
1476
1477“Wait, Diana. There is no ‘Holy Mother’ position in Vida’s Church either. I don’t know about the past, but I’m sure there’s no figure called that now,” said Jennifer.
1478
1479Indeed, there were female figures known as holy women in the Churches of Vida and her subordinate gods in the Orbaume Kingdom, but there was no official position called ‘Holy Mother.’
1480
1481There was surely nobody who even possessed the Title of ‘Holy Mother.’ Thus, it should have been clear that Heinz and his companions had not killed any Holy Mother.
1482
1483“Jennifer, you’re right. But the problem is that the fact that we’ve killed a holy mother has been recognized. By a large group of people or even gods, no less,” said Edgar.
1484
1485“That’s impossible!” Jennifer exclaimed immediately, but her face fell as she realized that this could not be denied so easily. “… No, I suppose the Title appearing on your Statuses means that’s what’s happened.”
1486
1487“But what kind of group? At the very least, it has to be a group on the scale of the Orbaume Kingdom and the gods of Alda’s religion that granted us their divine protections… The Amid Empire?” Delizah guessed.
1488
1489“No, that’s not possible. We’ve definitely moved our base of activities from the Amid Empire to the kingdom. The people of the empire won’t think positively of that, but that doesn’t mean they’d consider us ‘Holy Mother Killers,’” Heinz pointed out.
1490
1491He was right. No matter how negatively the people of the Amid Empire might think of Heinz and his companions now that they were S-class adventurers, they would not become ‘Holy Mother Killers’ just for having moved nations.
1492
1493“At the very least, it means that we have killed a being that a certain group of people recognize as a ‘Holy Mother.’ I cannot think of any, however,” said Diana.
1494
1495“You’re right… I can’t think of any, either,” said Jennifer, digging through her memory. “Most of the enemies we’ve defeated up until now were monsters, and we haven’t even been a part of the war against the Amid Empire. I can’t imagine that there was some bandit or assassin known as a ‘Holy Mother,’ either.”
1496
1497“It’s Holy Mother, so it has to be a woman… Ternecia? That female Pure-breed Vampire?” Delizah suggested, naming the first prominent female enemy they had defeated that came to her mind.
1498
1499To be precise, the party had merely finished off a Ternecia who had barely managed to escape from somewhere, but the world did acknowledge them as having defeated her.
1500
1501But Edgar shook his head, a dispirited expression on his face. “Delizah, that’s not possible. It’s true that she’s a woman, and she probably made a bunch of children in the sense of being a Vampire. Maybe the Vampire society worshipping the evil god of joyful life is large and influential enough to be the cause… but surely you can’t call that a ‘holy mother.’”
1502
1503“Well, that’s true,” Delizah agreed.
1504
1505Ternecia’s image was one of a purely evil woman; there wasn’t a shred of anything resembling a ‘holy mother.’
1506
1507“But then… could it be, that female Majin? If I recall, she worshipped an evil god and called herself the ‘holy woman of darkness,’” said Jennifer.
1508
1509“That one got away from us, remember? Who else…? I don’t think there were any women among the Kijin group we exterminated, and we’ve only defeated a few small-fries after Ternecia,” Edgar murmured.
1510
1511Nobody could come up with an explanation.
1512
1513But Heinz, who had been silent and deep in thought, finally spoke. “There is one that it could be,” he said.
1514
1515There was a thick crease between his brows; it was clear that he was suppressing a wish to deny the possibility that he had thought of.
1516
1517“No way,” Edgar muttered with a sigh. “You’re not going to say it’s that Dark Elf woman we captured in that tiny village in the Mirg shield-nation, are you? I’ll tell you now, it’s definitely not her.”
1518
1519“Why do you think that?” Heinz asked him.
1520
1521“Why? It’s obvious. I do think we did a bad thing back then, and it was a tragedy. Even more so now that we’re raising Selen,” said Edgar. “But that Dark Elf was known in the Mirg shield-nation as a ‘witch,’ and even in the Orbaume Kingdom, people would consider her a mother who met a tragic end, not a ‘Holy Mother.’”
1522
1523“You may be right if she was called ‘Holy Mother’ in the hidden Dark Elf village that she was born in, but… judging from your expressions, that was not the case,” said Diana, looking at Edgar and Heinz’s faces.
1524
1525She had never encountered the Dark Elf… Darcia, herself.
1526
1527Heinz and his party had not seen Darcia’s Status back then either, and they could not imagine that being proficient in combat would be a requirement of being called a ‘Holy Mother.’ However, if she really had been such an important figure, she would have had multiple Dark Elf guards or guards of Vida’s other races.
1528
1529Thus, the fact that they had captured Darcia to fulfil a request from the Adventurers’ Guild had nothing to do with gaining the ‘Holy Mother Killer’ Title.
1530
1531“But there’s a reason I think it’s true, Edgar. The only ones who have acquired the ‘Holy Mother Killer’ Title are me, you and Delizah. Jennifer and Diana don’t have it,” Heinz pointed out.
1532
1533The other four looked at each other. Indeed, neither Jennifer nor Diana’s Statuses displayed the ‘Holy Mother Killer’ Title, even now.
1534
1535“Heinz, that just means that we killed someone known as a ‘Holy Mother’ sometime before these two joined the Five-colored Blades. That doesn’t mean it has to be that Dark Elf Darcia… Well, not that I have any other ideas,” Delizah mumbled.
1536
1537The old Five-colored Blades had been famous as notable young adventurers, especially Heinz, who had been a B-class adventurer at the time, wielding a magic sword wreathed in blue flames that he carried even today.
1538
1539However, they had been incomparably weaker than they were now, and although their accomplishments as adventurers had been incredible, they were small in comparison to those of the ‘Thunderclap’ Schneider, an S-class adventurer.
1540
1541Of course, they had not defeated any notable enemies, either.
1542
1543Heinz’s expression remained bitter.
1544
1545“Delizah, everyone, she might not have been called ‘Holy Mother’ when we captured her,” he said. “But what if she came to be known as a ‘Holy Mother’ after her death? It’s not historically rare for deceased figures to be given titles.”
1546
1547“That’s true, but that only applies for influential figures like knights who died in battle, or noblemen, or adventurers who defeated calamity-designated monsters at the cost of their own lives. So –” Delizah began to argue.
1548
1549“What if her son went on to become an influential figure?” Heinz pressed on, cutting her off. “The Dhampir born between that Dark Elf… Darcia, and the Vampire Valen – Vandalieu, the one who appeared in the city of Niarki.”
1550
1551Everyone fell silent. In other circumstances, someone would be denying this idea – perhaps Edgar would even burst into laughter.
1552
1553But every member present here had witnessed Vandalieu appearing alongside Pure-breed Vampires on the 50th floor of this Dungeon, freely wielding two – no, four fragments of the Demon King as well as incredibly unusual spells.
1554
1555Edgar had guessed that it might be a monster that changed its own appearance to cause agitation in its enemies, but now… everyone realized that this had been nothing more than an attempt to escape from the truth.
1556
1557This convenient escape from the truth was no longer convincing after hearing Heinz’s theory.
1558
1559“… It’s true that he might be able to lead monsters and the Vampires who worship evil gods if he’s that powerful, even if he is a child. It might even really be him that Ternecia was escaping from,” Edgar muttered.
1560
1561“So that means it’s no coincidence that the gods recreated an illusion of him in this Dungeon,” said Jennifer. “To think that he would give you guys the ‘Holy Mother Killer’ Title…”
1562
1563“That’s right. Vandalieu is still alive and becoming even stronger. I don’t know whether he’s planning revenge against me or whether he’s trying to pull off something bigger, but… he’s likely to harm the gods and this world. That’s what Alda thinks, which is probably why he made Vandalieu one of this Dungeon’s trials. If these assumptions are correct, he should appear one more time as an enemy further into the trials,” said Heinz, wiping the cold sweat that had formed on his forehead and beginning to walk towards the staircase once more. “Let’s go,” he said to his companions. “If he appears before us again, we need to see if this is true, even if it’s an illusion.”
1564
1565 
1566
1567 
1568
1569 
1570
1571In a Divine Realm filled with a bright blue, several gods whispered amongst themselves.
1572
1573“It seems that the ill news brought by the god of reincarnation was true.”
1574
1575“To think that gods such as Zuruwarn-sama and Ricklent-sama would side not with Alda, but with Vida… I cannot believe this.”
1576
1577“Were they afflicted by a maddening poison when they were wounded by the Demon King? Just like Zantark?”
1578
1579“No, it is possible that they are still sane.”
1580
1581“What foolish things are you saying? If they are sane, why are they not working with Alda-sama!”
1582
1583“I have heard that Zuruwarn-sama has always been known for his blasphemy since the age of the gods. Ricklent-sama is a god who perceives things not as good and evil, but through other criteria, is he not? They may be great gods, but we must not assume that they think in the same way as Alda-sama.”
1584
1585“How disrespectful! It is only natural for any great god to think about what is best for this world! In fact, both Zuruwarn-sama and Ricklent-sama joined forces with Alda-sama to fight against the Demon King Guduranis!”
1586
1587“Then let me ask you this. Why did their subordinate gods act in that way during the battle that took place a hundred thousand years ago! Almost all of those with individual personalities sided with Vida, and the rest hid away in their Divine Realms, spouting nonsense about maintaining the attributes, not even showing their faces as this crucial event took place!”
1588
1589Finally, this argument between the gods was interrupted.
1590
1591“This is good,” said a goddess who had been sitting silently in a corner of the Divine realm.
1592
1593“Pargtarta-dono!” one of the other gods murmured in surprise.
1594
1595The younger gods who had risen to godhood after the battle of a hundred thousand years ago turned to face the goddess who had interrupted. This goddess had been ordered to watch over the resting grounds of Peria, the goddess of water and knowledge, and protect them from Vandalieu. Other than initial greetings, she had not spoken a word up until this point, so the gods were surprised to hear her speak now.
1596
1597She was Pargtarta, the goddess of flow. She was the first familiar spirit that Peria had ever created, and she was now a goddess. She was the most closely-trusted among all of Peria’s subordinates. As the goddess of flow, she was a senior subordinate god who had not moved from this place so that she could keep the wounded, slumbering Peria safe.
1598
1599“I am not blaming you. Gods too need recreation, after all. Youngsters being full of curiosity is nothing out of the ordinary, and lively discussion will deepen your own viewpoints. You may continue,” Pargtarta said to the gods.
1600
1601Realizing that she was indirectly telling them to speak calmly rather than argue angrily, the young gods remained uncomfortably silent, avoiding looking at each other.
1602
1603Though Pargtarta was a subordinate god like them, she was as important to Peria as Curatos was to Alda. Though she was not worshipped independently, every Church deifying Peria would contain statues and sculptures depicting Pargtarta as well.
1604
1605She was on a different level from the others.
1606
1607Seeing the other gods fall silent, Pargtarta spoke to them quietly.
1608
1609“I understand your feelings of unease,” she said. “There is news that the Sun Giant Talos has been revived, is there not?”
1610
1611“Y-yes. According to the gods that were keeping watch, the Pure-breed Vampires conducted a blasphemous ritual, and shortly after that, Talos roared as he rose from the earth,” said one of the other gods.
1612
1613“The marks on his neck made by Nineroad-sama’s whip still remain, but it seems that he has been fully revived,” said another, his words gradually becoming more fluid as he spoke. “However, he remains charmed by Vida’s beauty just as he was a hundred thousand years ago; I have heard that he is staying inside the Boundary Mountain Range and has created a Divine Realm there.”
1614
1615Alda’s forces believed that the Pure-breed Vampires had conducted some blasphemous ritual to revive Talos, and also that the Pure-breed Vampires had acquired the Sunlight Resistance Skill or something else that allowed them to conquer the sun.
1616
1617However, the truth was that Talos had had enough of Dragan and Erpel fooling about on top of his head and shouted angrily at them, “Enough! I cannot get out if you are making so much noise on my head!”
1618
1619Of course, Alda’s forces were also wrong about how the Pure-breed Vampires had conquered the sun; it was because they were now Abyssal Pure-breed Vampires.
1620
1621But it was true that the revived Vida was regaining her forces. Even the young gods who had not experienced the battle of a hundred thousand years ago were shaken by this fact.
1622
1623With Pargtarta having pointed out their unrest, the young gods suddenly realized that they had never exchanged proper conversation with her, so they began talking to her about their worries.
1624
1625“Judging from the present situation, what is happening on the Dark Continent? If Talos has been revived, then Deeana and Tiamat should have been revived as well, as they were less heavily wounded than he was. Farmaun-sama… Farmaun, is showing no signs of returning to Alda-sama.”
1626
1627“And Alda-sama is hiding something from us. He was apparently very shaken by what he was told about Vandalieu by Rodcorte. There is no mistake that it is something grave, if it is enough to cause unrest even in Alda-sama.”
1628
1629“According to the rumors I heard, he was in a fit of anger rather than being shaken… Vandalieu is someone who was reincarnated here by Rodcorte from another world, and there are approximately a hundred others who will be reincarnated here as well. Is it not likely that Alda was enraged by that?”
1630
1631“From another world, just like the champions… but from Earth. If Vandalieu was born there, it is no doubt a hellish world filled with blasphemous people with no fear for gods.”
1632
1633Now that the topic had shifted to Earth, Pargtarta joined the discussion once more. “It is only natural for you to feel unease. Our lord Alda himself is shaken, after all,” she said. “But you must calm yourselves. It is true that Vida’s faction is organizing its forces; it may eventually become as powerful as it was a hundred thousand years ago, or even more so. But that will be hundreds or even thousands of years from now, will it not?”
1634
1635Vida had been freed from Alda’s divine authority and revived. She would likely gain more familiar spirits and heroic spirits, made from the souls of her believers.
1636
1637The powerful members and ancestors of Vida’s races such as the Pure-breed Vampires were on the move once more.
1638
1639Two of the great gods had sided with Vida, and Vandalieu was currently moving behind the scenes in the Orbaume Kingdom.
1640
1641However, Vida and the other great gods had not completely recovered from their wounds. They would not be able to gather new familiar spirits and heroic spirits right away.
1642
1643And many powerful enemies, such as the Vampire True Ancestor, had been buried or sealed away a hundred thousand years ago by Alda’s forces. These enemies would never return.
1644
1645“Meanwhile, Alda-sama is raising a new vessel to become a champion who would succeed Bellwood, and attempting to awaken Bellwood himself. The other gods are finding and nurturing new heroes. We are not participating in this process as we must devote ourselves to protect this place, and if it is done poorly, we will end up with low-quality heroes. But we can trust the others’ efforts to ensure this will not be the case,” said Pargtarta. “Furthermore, through some strange turn of events, we have Rodcorte’s full cooperation, do we not?”
1646
1647“Now that you mention it, you are right. In terms of number, Vida’s side has four great gods including the Zantark who has lost his mind, but none of those gods are in their ordinary states,” one of the young gods murmured.
1648
1649“That’s right. I do not know how trustworthy Rodcorte is from what I have heard, but we will become a sturdier rock once Peria-sama is revived. Is that not right, Pargtarta-dono?” said another, looking up to Pargtarta with bright hope on his face.
1650
1651Pargtarta nodded, providing the young gods with a great sense of reassurance. “Once our master is revived, I am sure she will do her utmost for this world’s sake, too,” she said.
1652
1653“Yes, she is the goddess who is praised for knowing the hearts of gods.”
1654
1655“Peria-sama’s knowledge will be of great support to Alda-sama, whose heart pains over the betrayal of his brothers.”
1656
1657With those words of praise for Peria, the young gods returned to their observation and guard duties with the desire to protect this place at all costs.
1658
1659It seemed that the diversion had succeeded.
1660
1661Pargtarta smiled at the gods as they left, then returned to her own position, holding her spear and shield.
1662
1663The thoughts of beings with emotions are complex, so leading them is troublesome, but it is good that they are simple. Whether they stay to protect Peria-sama or not does not make a difference, but thanks to them, I have a good understanding of the outside world, she thought to herself, staring coldly at the young gods while still wearing a fake smile. It seems that the information is correct. My true master, can you hear my voice?
1664
1665Pargtarta’s master was not Alda. She showed respect for him for appearances’ sake, but she was a goddess who belonged elsewhere.
1666
1667To begin with, the current situation in which Alda controlled gods who managed multiple attributes was unnatural and irregular.
1668
1669Pargtarta did not think anything of the young gods who had not noticed that the current situation was unnatural and irregular. It was only natural to be swept into an easier path; this was true for both gods and mortals.
1670
1671Even Pargtarta herself was no exception to this.
1672
1673My true master, my flow will go in the direction in which you point.
1674
1675 
1676
1677 
1678
1679 
1680
1681“I was watching as if I was dreaming. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for rebuilding this destroyed nation and saving my children, but… please stop making so much noise on my head.”
1682
1683These were the words Talos spoke after his revival, and ten days had passed since then.
1684
1685An increase in Blood Potion production, a lecture by Darcia and the other idols to celebrate Talos’s revival, and the taking over of the criminal organization had all been completed, so Vandalieu was trying to officially enter the city that he had set his sights on.
1686
1687But as he stood in the line outside the city’s gates, his consciousness suddenly faded away. The next thing he knew, he was being held in the mouth of one of Zuruwarn’s heads.
1688
1689Ah, a midday dream, he thought, but he couldn’t do anything as he was carried off somewhere.
1690
1691After they crossed a background that resembled a night sky, they arrived at their destination and Vandalieu saw a nostalgic sight.
1692
1693A blue planet – Earth.
1694
1695It had more clouds than Vandalieu had often seen in maps or on TV, but it was certainly Earth.
1696
1697“There’s someone that I want you to meet,” said Zuruwarn.
1698
1699“Before that, is it alright if I go and look up the recipe for Cola? Also, I’d like to taste the cheese and branded meats so I can have a reference,” said Vandalieu.
1700
1701“Hmm, that might be difficult. Descending on the planet as you are now would cause problems both for you and for the planet. Especially for the people on the surface,” said Zuruwarn, shuddering at the thought of what would happen if a great monster and himself were to descend onto Earth.
1702
1703Vandalieu then realized that he was small in comparison to Zuruwarn in his current form, but he was still the size of a multistory building.
1704
1705“… Never mind, then,” he said.
1706
1707Hesitant to descend upon Japan in a building-size state, he reluctantly gave up on his idea.
1708
1709“But if there is someone you want to know about, we can observe what they are doing now,” said Ricklent, whom Vandalieu had only just realized was present.
1710
1711Vandalieu thought for a moment, then suddenly realized that there was something that he wanted to know.
1712
1713What had happened, approximately thirty years after his own death?
1714
1715“I’d like to know what happened to the business that I would have had a live-in job at if I hadn’t died, and the person who interviewed me,” Vandalieu said.
1716
1717Zuruwarn laughed loudly. “Is that what you want to know? I thought you’d want to know what happened to some idol or actress that you liked, but I was wrong! … Ah, sorry,” he said, realizing that his mouth had accidentally let go of Vandalieu.
1718
1719“Zuruwarn, he may be only a soul at the moment, but that does not mean we can simply release him into outer space,” Ricklent warned him.
1720
1721He reached out to catch Vandalieu, who was helplessly flapping his arms and legs in silence as he floated about in space.
1722
1723“Vandalieu, it seems that the construction company that you would have joined is still in existence. However, the person who was in charge of your interview has moved to another company, and has risen to become the head of a department. He will reach the age for mandatory retirement next year,” said Ricklent.
1724
1725It seemed that the person in charge of Vandalieu’s interview was still alive. He had remained in the corner of Vandalieu’s memory, as he was one of the rare people who had complimented Vandalieu for enthusiasm. It was good to hear that he was doing well.
1726
1727“I’m not interested in anything else,” said Vandalieu. “Kanako and the others apparently checked on their family and friends before they were reincarnated in Lambda.”
1728
1729Kanako and the others had apparently learned about their family and friends through Shimada Izumi, who had been the class representative… though it had apparently been difficult to ask, as they had betrayed Izumi and the others in their previous lives; they had been vague with their words when they told Vandalieu about this.
1730
1731Suddenly, Vandalieu remembered something – he, too, had a family, though only in the sense that they had lived in the same house as him.
1732
1733He remembered them, but he didn’t feel any desire to ask about his uncle, aunt or cousins.
1734
1735I don’t care, after all.
1736
1737Now that he had a real, warm family, these people had become incredibly insignificant to him, even more so than before.
1738
1739But I never ended up being able to get them back for anything… I suppose I’ll just wish them misfortune, he thought.
1740
1741“Ah, if you’re thinking about your uncle’s family, they’ve had plenty of misfortune, so let’s not go and curse them,” Zuruwarn said hastily, stopping him.
1742
1743“We probably won’t be noticed here, but this world is under Rodcorte’s jurisdiction. We can’t do anything too conspicuous,” said Ricklent.
1744
1745“Huh? Is it conspicuous for me to wish misfortune on them?” Vandalieu asked.
1746
1747Zuruwarn and Ricklent’s combined seven heads nodded.
1748
1749It was apparently best for Vandalieu to refrain from wishing misfortune upon others in his current state.
1750
1751“The people of Earth have so little Mana that they may as well have none, so they would not be able to resist even the weakest of curses,” said Zuruwarn. “Now then, shall we get going? We’ll visit the god of Earth first, then the god of Origin after that.”
1752
1753
1754Title explanation:
1755
1756Holy Mother Killer
1757
1758A Title that marks criminals who took the life of someone praised as the Holy Mother. Unlike Titles such as Dragon Slayer and Colossus Slayer, it is not a Title of praise to celebrate a great achievement, but a negative Title given for the commitment of an evil act. It is a brand that marks criminals.
1759
1760For that reason, it does not provide any positive effects. If it has been given forcefully, it may create some unwanted connections that might prevent one from living a respectable life, such as drawing attention from organizations that are hostile to the Holy Mother that was killed.
1761
1762There are no negative effects to speak of, either… However, those who worship the Holy Mother would hate and wish to take the lives of those who possess this Title, and even those who do not worship the Holy Mother would not think positively of such a Title.
1763
1764One could consider these to be the Title’s negative effects.