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Chapter 329 – The Night that Swallowed the Sun (5)

The first attack was from Theodore. The lightning in his hand collided with Jerem's shield.

Kwarurung!

The lightning spear was pushed down and exploded the ground around it. If this were a desert, then the phenomenon, 'glassing', would occur. Dust clouds rose from the explosion and covered the whole area. Nonetheless, Theodore did not hesitate to advance. His eyes weren't covered by the dust, and he felt like this was the last chance. Super sensitivity—it was the intuition that appeared again after being silent in Nídhöggur's presence.

'Jerem's magic power isn't infinite. The level of the undead has fallen, and my side has a chance to win.'

The burden on Jerem couldn't be compared to before after Nídhöggur started moving in earnest. Moreover, Jerem's power had declined, while Theodore was still hiding a few trump cards. For example, what about the magic scrolls he had gotten a while ago?

"Gluttony, release number 112 to 119 from the inventory!"

-Understood.

At Theodore's words, eight magic scrolls popped out from his left hand. It was part of the rewards he got from Paragranum after going to Paracelsus' laboratory a while ago. There were 12 scrolls of 7th circle magic, and he chose eight that were useful for combat. He invoked all of them without any errors.

Wuooooong!

Overwhelming magic power shone from the scrolls.

'Someone else might think this is a waste of money!'

The 7th circle scrolls could buy a small territory, and now eight of them were being used at once. The scrolls floated in midair and fired the 7th circle magic.

A heavy storm emerged from a scroll.

Tongues of fire emerged from another scroll.

There was a scroll that shot out lightning bolts.

There was also a scroll that froze a certain amount of space.

Additionally, there were several other attack spells that hit Jerem.

There was a loud explosion, and the earth shook.

If used properly, this was a chain of attack power that could kill a sword master in one go. However, Theodore plunged into the storm he created without much expectation. It was powerful but not enough to destroy the wall of darkness or Jerem's immortality.

'It is enough to stop him for a moment.'

Unsurprisingly, a being stood in front of Theodore after he entered the storm. The eyes of the death knight, an undead strong enough to survive the 7th circle attack magic, glowed brightly. However, its body wasn't in a perfect state. Theodore blocked the sword aiming at his throat and stabbed the death knight with Soul Calibre a few times. The death knight's immortality was completely destroyed, and it crumbled. The death knight hadn't been at a level to completely endure the power of the 7th circle magic scrolls, but it couldn't avoid the spells due to the presence of its master behind it.

"…Being used as a shield? It was a vain end."

However, Jerem's thoughts were a little different. Beyond the dust, his white jawbones moved as he spoke, "A servant should be satisfied about protecting its master. Everybody has a place and role. Its role was to sacrifice itself for me."

"Ha, is that so?" Theodore laughed without questioning it. "Then isn't the role of the evil warlock to fall before me?"

"Let's see?" A red light flashed in Jerem's eye sockets, and he raised thin finger bones. Then he pointed to Theodore and declared in a loud voice, "True evil doesn't disappear."

With those words, the conversation ended. There was nothing more to be said. Jerem chanted a short spell before Theodore could act. Then translucent evil spirits rose from the ground, grabbing at Theodore's ankles and body. He was caught in their terrible grip, and his vitality sucked out.

This was Drain Specter, which took away the vitality of a living being through contact.

[Huhu, how ridiculous!]

This was insignificant to the old heroes.

Kiiing-

Soul Calibre flashed a few times, cutting the necks of the evil spirits that tried to approach Theodore. Even the spirits under the ground were destroyed.

"Indeed, that sword is a special magic that kills the soul. I now understand why the Four Horsemen couldn't go against you." Jerem black magic moved in an ominous manner as he talked. "It isn't effective against physical defenses and can't be used if you aren't close. It is impossible to use unless it is by a variant like you."

"What, variant?"

"A magician who is able to use a hodgepodge of things. No, isn't it because of Gluttony? Hahaha, you are really lucky to eat everything…" Jerem spoke with a blank expression and raised his finger, setting up a barrier of bones around him. He looked similar to the reaper beckoning from across the river of death. "Come, my last adversary."

Simultaneously, Theodore's body became a flash of blue.

Kwarurung!

He rushed lightly with his lightning body. The distance between them was 30 meters. Before Theodore arrived, Jerem used four black magic spells in the blink of an eye.

Call of the Living Dead.

The undead appeared without any precursors and blocked Theodore's way, while three curses tangled around their bodies. They were curses for the living but powerful blessings for the undead. The undead reached master level in a few minutes and roared loudly, Kuoooooooh!

'Tch, annoying.' Theodore stopped and stared at them. 'These undead have excellent physical abilities and are hard to defeat with Soul Calibre. I will take a few minutes penetrating through them in an ordinary way.'

However, Theodore had Gluttony. He had no problem communicating with Gluttony in this accelerated state. The speed of his consciousness was faster than lightning.

'Gluttony. Number 238!'

-You are going big.

A scroll popped out from his left hand, and he threw it forward. There were five magic scrolls with 8th circle magic. The scrolls that hadn't been able to be used so far due to lacking power now saw the light.

"Open, Basilisk's Eye!"

The special 8th circle magic shot out petrification rays and hit the lumbering bodies of the undead. The muscles, skin, and bones of the undead were just good prey for the petrification rays. The undead physically strengthened by Jerem couldn't resist! They were relatively resistant to magic, but the undead couldn't hold on for long and soon turned into stone.

Theodore ran past the stone bodies. It might seem good, but the basilisk's petrification caused by the scroll wouldn't last longer than five minutes. This meant it would be a mess if he didn't finish the fight in that time. It had to be a short and decisive battle.

Lightning shot out from Theodore's left hand and struck the defensive wall made of several layers of bone. The air froze. Then the power of the two strong men collided, and silence fell as the space was torn apart by the power. Theodore extracted a tremendous amount of magic power from the dragon heart and increased the size of Soul Calibre to nearly 3 meters. He was prepared to cut Jerem's body at any time.

"Jereeeeem!"

"Theodoreeeee!"

The heavy silence was broken, and strong magic that no one else in this age could reproduce sprang from the hands of both of them.

Fire, lightning, storm, darkness, light, and space…

The attack magic tore the air apart, and the heat fell to the ground, changing wet soil to lava. Two minutes hadn't even passed, but the fight was several times more violent than what had come before it.

Theodore's Soul Calibre cut off Jerem's left arm. Jerem's Arrow of Corruption struck Theodore's stomach. A shadow blade emerged from the ground and shattered Jerem's feet. Ancient magic interfered with the blood flow in Theodore's arteries.

These attacks kept continuing and repeating. Theodore's living body became a mess, while Jerem's immortal body received several penalties from the continuous magic. The durability of the undead was their strongest power in combat. It was clear that Theodore wouldn't be able to finish this in five minutes.

…That was only if Jerem hadn't made a mistake.

"Grudge of the Afterlife, curse him!" Jerem had Theodore's memories and knew most of Gluttony's functions, but he didn't know about what had happened after he'd acquired them.

Hall of Fame was a special ability that allowed the user to borrow the power of registered magicians and receive their teachings. A few minutes ago, Theodore asked for help from a great man. It was Abe no Seimei's Curse Protection, a fraudulent help that blocked all curses at the 8th circle and below.

'Now!' Theodore's body moved the moment the curse was used. He accepted the curse without trying to avoid or block it and plunged toward Jerem's body without hesitation.

It was checkmate through a foul!

"―What?!"

As Theodore raised his right arm, the shocked Jerem canceled the spell he was casting and his jawbones moved. It wasn't too late to use an Order. Although it might not have as much power as before, it would be sufficient to stop Theodore for a moment.

「Закройте (Shut up)! 」 Theodore's Dragon Words were spoken first, and Jerem's jawbones snapped shut. Theodore put to good use the moment Jerem tried to use an Order. A magician who couldn't cast lost half his power. Then the sword of the soul fell like a guillotine toward Jerem's head.

Kiiiiing!

Vertical and horizontal—the sword sliced at Jerem's body from all directions.

"Urgent Order!"

The spell Theodore learned from Seimei completely suppressed all the pieces of Jerem's body. If he missed one piece, Jerem might be able to resurrect since the power of a god was needed to completely destroy a monster like Jerem. Just like with Mitra, only the power of a perfect god could destroy the immortality that came from another dimension.

In any case, it was only a matter of time now. This battle was already decided.

"…Ku, huhu…kuhuhu…hu…" Caught in the air, Jerem's fragmented jaw moved. Theodore frowned despite being certain of Jerem's defeat. His super sensitivity didn't perceive any threat.

"What, are you going to complain?"

"Huhuhu… This great… body… frustrated by an enemy like you… Isn't it… funny…?" Jerem's words weren't entirely wrong.

Jerem was a warlock who had reached the 9th circle and contracted with an evil dragon from another dimension. Even if he was weakened, he was still superior compared to Theodore. Yet he had lost, and Theodore had won. That fact didn't change, no matter what Jerem claimed.

Jerem started to cry out in a desperate voice as fearsome screams emerged, "Nastrond's demon king! The snake that kills the world tree! Take this body and make it your food! I offer you this body!"

Theodore didn't have a chance to do anything as purple magic power wrapped around Jerem's crumbling body.

"To those who block me, I place an eternal curse on this world―!" Jerem's skull completely collapsed after this threat.

Only a pile of ashes showed that the warlock, Jerem, had been here. It was a chilling cry, but Theodore didn't sense anything different. He stared at the pile of ashes at his feet with a bewildered expression. "What the hell…?"

At that moment…

-Theodore! Are you listening? Alucard's voice was passed through Ratatoskr. Alucard's urgent tone made Theodore realize there was an emergency.

Theodore quickly replied through the neural network, 'What is it? What's going on?'

-Look up at the sky!

'The sky?'

Theodore's eyes widened at the words and raised his head. After Hraesvelgr and Nídhöggur soared into the sky, he had been concentrating on his fight with Jerem without thinking about them. That had been because he realized that a mortal couldn't intervene in the struggle between transcendents. Therefore, he was shocked when he looked up.

"…What is it this time?"

The sky was tearing apart.

Chapter 330 – Dmitra (1)

The original concept of the sky was that it wasn't something that could be torn apart. How could the atmosphere thousands of kilometers above the ocean and clouds be torn? Large-scale weather phenomena were trivial compared to the real extent of the sky. The days of fearing that lightning known as the wrath of God had already passed.

"Crazy!"

No, it was just an illusion. Theodore looked up at the distant sky and couldn't help cursing. As a magician who explored the laws of the physical world, he couldn't believe the sight he was seeing. Who was it that contacted him in an urgent tone? Alucard?

The knee-jerk reaction was indeed accurate. The sky was torn.

It was almost 9 in the morning, but the sky where Nídhöggur stopped the sunrise was still dark. Unlike the moonlit sky filled with stars, this was a darkness that didn't allow any light to be seen. Unfortunately, Nídhöggur was the one who made this darkness, and Hraesvelgr was going against it.

――――――――――――!!

At this moment, lightning struck, and the world turned white.

"Urgh, again!"

The ground and the sky shook. Despite knowing it was an illusion, Theodore couldn't help reacting to it. It was a feeling caused by the oscillating of the dimensional system, which was due to the two transcendents. The aftermath of the fight traveled at least a few hundred kilometers. If the elves shared Theodore's senses, they might have fainted.

He kept this in mind and arrived at the place he had been told to go to through Ratatoskr.

"You came? I heard you were dealing with the enemy leader alone and was worried." Alucard, who had sent Theodore the signal, welcomed him with a serious expression.

"Fortunately, there are no big injuries. My magic power is overloaded, but if I am careful, I can fight more…"

The dragon heart belonged to a dragon who had lived for 10,000 years, and it was literally a treasure with infinite magic power. Theodore was utilizing its power and would only be able to fight for half a day with it. Nevertheless, the battle against Jerem had been dicey.

Jerem's casting speed, magic combination, and magic control made him more of a great magician than a monster. Theodore had barely won with the fouls of Soul Calibre, the Hall of Fame, and the dragon heart.

'Well, there was also the patron called Nídhöggur.'

The emergence of the variable called Hraesvelgr tilted things to their side. Additionally, Theodore hadn't had a method to finish Jerem off fully. Instead, he had collapsed on his own. Since early on, warlocks had never accepted death. So, Jerem must have had ulterior motives.

"Do you know what the situation is? The sky is torn despite the atmosphere not seeming to have a single scratch."

"I'll tell you everything when the others get here. Repeating the same words several times is just a waste of effort. Those in the south are already approaching."

"The south?"

Before Theodore could say anything more, Veronica fell from the sky and clung to his neck. It was a high-speed fall that quickly switched to a slow speed, like a fishing fisherman.

"Theo, we won as well! You knocked down that monster alone while I was gone!"

"V-Veronica? Wait a minute…"

"What's wrong? I'm just giving you a reward because you worked hard," Veronica spoke while placing her cheek against Theodore's.

Meanwhile, Titania just shrugged. She had the sense not to get involved. Soon afterward, Ellenoa and the leaders in charge of each defense area gathered. Apart from Alucard, the other three high elves were busy maintaining Hraesvelgr's summoning.

"I will explain after the situation is organized," Alucard said. Then he clapped a few times before saying, "Defenders responsible for each other, report."

"The eastern front, Guardian Ellaim will report," Ellaim said politely as he stepped forward. "On the eastern front, all the undead died a few minutes before you summoned me. There isn't a single undead moving on the eastern front."

"It is the same in the west."

"The southern front has also been verified. Combat has entered in all areas, the land has been cleansed, and we are in the post-processing stage."

"Umm." Alucard's expression stiffened after hearing that all the dangerous undead had disappeared.

Anyone who felt excited by this situation would have stones for brains. It wasn't hundreds or thousands but hundreds of thousands of undead. Theodore might've killed the caster, but the undead wouldn't be so easily destroyed. It was impossible for all of them to be gone.

"…It can't be." Theodore reached the truth before anyone else. "Don't tell me that all the undead were sacrificed to Nídhöggur?"

"What?" Alucard was surprised by Theodore's words and immediately asked Theodore, "Theodore. I'm not a magician, but is the power of the sacrifices enough to affect the two beings?"

"It should be fine…"

At that moment, Gluttony woke up and interrupted, -You are half right, half wrong. How can the soul of an imperfect warlock interfere in the confrontation between transcendents? The balance of power will just be temporarily collapsed.

"The balance between Hraesvelgr and Nídhöggur will collapse?"

-That's right. Hraesvelgr is stable because of the legitimate ritual that doesn't need a big sacrifice like Nídhöggur's did. However, Hraesvelgr's force is small. In the opposite direction, Nídhöggur took a shortcut by swallowing Baldur's body. Nídhöggur can momentarily exert a stronger power.

Nídhöggur had devoured Baldur, while Hraesvelgr was reliant on the four high elves, the Great Forest, and the world tree. Hraesvelgr was stable and could be summoned for a long time, while a short battle was more beneficial for Nídhöggur. Therefore, Nídhöggur aimed to finish it straight away, but Hraesvelgr wanted a drawn-out battle.

However, this fight was turned upside down by a variable—the sudden disappearance of Jerem who had summoned N��dhöggur to this material world.

-The most important thing for summoning magic is the link. If it is lost, you can't stay in this world for a long time, no matter how strong you are. This isn't the time to relax. Nídhöggur's power is threatening.

"So, is it a toss of the dice over who will win?"

-Hrrmm, I don't know, Gluttony spoke in a voice that contained hidden significance. -Based on my memories, Nídhöggur is someone who will use everything he has.

Theodore's super sensitivity gave him an intense warning, making him feel dizzy. This was a headache that caused his eyes to blur! It was at a level which told him death was inevitable. The direction of the danger came from the sky where the monsters were tangled together.

"…Eh?"

The sky was bright. This pure white sky didn't look normal. Unlike the darkness of Nídhöggur, divinity could be felt from the white light. It was the strength of Hraesvelgr. Theodore had no idea of the circumstances when Alucard suddenly paled and opened his mouth.

"Theodore."

"Huh?"

"Hraesvelgr has sent a message."

Theodore's face stiffened at the unexpected name.

"Eventually, Nídhöggur will shoot a death breath. Hraesvelgr will use all his strength to prevent it, but we should prepare for the blow."

"…Ha, a blow. The words aren't easy." Theodore sighed as he realized what the warning meant.

It was only one blow, but it was much more powerful than Theodore could handle. A grand master's killing technique…

The 9th circle magician's ultimate magic. It was a blow that would inevitably cause death for any opponent. Nídhöggur's breath would be able to destroy all creatures in this forest and Elvenheim.

'…I don't want to think about it.'

Theodore shook off the terrible scene that he imagined and asked a question, "What is the time limit?"

"The next two hours. There is a little bit less time now."

"Two hours… We can barely get out of the Great Forest."

Additionally, it was difficult to abandon the world tree and Elvenheim. This was the elves' paradise beyond the Red Plateau and beyond the reach of greedy humans. Although Alucard didn't refute Theodore's words, the bitter expression in his eyes was clear to Theodore. Alucard was determined to throw away the world tree.

'Damn, it is hard with just two hours. If the right answer is to evacuate, then we have to move right now…!' Theodore desperately tried to think of measures, but the scale was too big.

The 5th stage Superbia and 6th stage Invidia were no match for this. It was a one-sided fight. In this case, it was closer to a natural disaster than combat. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and so on… A mortal couldn't do anything against an uninvited guest from another dimension.

Theodore moved his lethargic brain and continued to think of possible measures. 'First, I can briefly summon Fafnir to counter it.'

If Nídhöggur consumed a lot of power fighting Hraesvelgr, Theodore might be able to intercept it with Fafnir. The destructive power of the 'laser' was superior to any breath, so it could stop the breath of death.

'…Dismissed. Nídhöggur will shoot the breath at the world tree, and if I call Fafnir near there, Elvenheim might be burned with my own power.'

The world tree was so sensitive to fire magic that it burned with just Veronica approaching. It would surely be a catastrophe if two dragons fought against each other in the vicinity of the immature world tree. There was no time to intercept it from a distance, and he didn't have the exact timing either. Thanks to Gluttony's advice, he knew the speed and destructive power of the death breath. However, he had no control over Fafnir.

So, Theodore gave up on his first method.

'Second, I can use all my achievement points to borrow the power of those in the Hall of Fame.'

Thanks to Jerem, he still had over 100,000 achievement points. It was possible to borrow powerful magic by calling the name of a great magician. However, this was frustrated by Gluttony's advice.

-Meteor Fall or Grand Cross both have enough power to counter it, but they can't be used with 100,000 points. You don't have enough points to call their souls.

'Ugh, then the third―'

It was amazing that there were spells which could counter the death breath. However, what good were the spells if they couldn't be used when he needed them? Theodore was about to think about a third plan when Ellenoa raised a hand.

"Ellenoa? What's going on?"

"Ah, nothing. Just…" Ellenoa was a little hesitant and took a few deep breaths before speaking. "I can still summon Nohengrin. Please tell me anytime if you need my strength."

"Ah, thank you."

"It isn't a situation where you should thank me."

The two of them smiled brightly as they faced each other. The heavy atmosphere became a bit lighter. Theodore heard Ellenoa's words and thought about using the power of the elemental ruler. However, he dismissed it. Even if the elemental ruler did their best, it would be difficult to block Nídhöggur's breath with their power.

Gluttony predicted that it would have the power of a lower or intermediate-level god.

'Why is this lizard so anxious to eat plants? Reptiles should eat worms instead of going to another world.'

Theodore looked around. The location of their meeting was quite high up, and he could see the elves being busy at the bottom. There were some he knew, and others he didn't know. They were anxious at the fact that the monster from the Age of Mythology, Nídhöggur, would blow a breath over their heads.

"…Ahh, the parent tree. Please protect us."

An elf rushed toward the world tree with a small swaddling cloth in his arms, a child that was born recently. Theodore had thought that the act of praying was for the religions of the human race, but the act of gathering both hands together and praying could be found in any culture. The elves really prayed for a god to help them. They hoped for their sincerity to touch the sky, and for a righteous deity to draw a sword and defeat the dragon.

'Hmm?' At that moment, Theodore sensed he was missing something and his eyes narrowed.

[Hoing!] Mitra, the brown-skinned girl, popped out of the ground with a bud on her head and somersaulted. It was a feat that could be seen in a circus. Theodore praised her skill before having a thought. This was the age where the gods had disappeared and magic had declined. If they couldn't hope for a god's help, why not ask for the help of a god here?

"Mitra."

[Yes? What?]

Theodore stroked Mitra's wheat colored hair and asked with a heavy expression, "Will you become the god of this forest?"

Chapter 331 – Dmitra (2)

There was less than an hour left before Nídhöggur's attack that Hraesvelgr warned about. Theodore and three high elves were preparing for a clean operation. It was a plan to borrow the power of a god to go against Nídhöggur. From the point of view of the material world, Nídhöggur was an uninvited person. The gods were a part of the material world and a guardian.

The problem was that there was no god to ask for help.

"…I-Is this really okay?" Ellenoa made an embarrassed expression while wearing thin cloth, a dress for ceremonial occasions or special rituals.

Theodore briefly went blank when he saw her. There were laurel leaves in her hair, and the fabric, which had been made with the elven weaving technique, wrapped smoothly around Ellenoa's slim body. Setting aside sexual attraction, it was a beauty that made everyone feel admiration.

"Beautiful."

Ellenoa was surprised by Theodore's words. "Huh…? T-Thank you."

"Ah! N-No, it looks good. Cough."

She had already heard everything. Both of them were aware of the serious situation and avoided each other's eyes for a moment. Then Ellenoa cautiously opened her mouth first. She had heard a few words on the way here, but she couldn't help doubting Theodore's plan. "Theodore, is this really possible? I didn't think that Mitra could return to being a god again."

"Haha, my explanation was a little bit brief," Theodore acknowledged it with a bitter smile.

If Ellenoa was asking this, then the other high elves were likely to be confused about whether this was a good idea.

'Honestly, I also think it is a bit absurd. I didn't have time to explain and skipped many things.'

It was a plan to return Mitra's divinity and prevent Nídhöggur's attack. Regarding the theories of elementals, the elves' ideas were more established than those of magicians. If it hadn't been for Theodore's accomplishments in the past, they would've dismissed his plan as nonsense on the spot.

However, Theodore was confident in his own way.

He had once succeeded it inside his own body and now had a deeper understanding of the concept of gods. It would be possible if he used all the resources of Elvenheim.

"Making gods from zero is impossible even for transcendents. However, filling in incomplete pieces isn't that difficult. I can just barely try it with my capabilities, but it will be possible with your help."

There were three elements that established the existence of a god: the trinity of prestige; power; and authority. Those with all three were recognized as a definite god.

Prestige was the symbol of a god, the presence of divinity. Power was the proof of a god, i.e. if people had faith in the god. Authority meant the presence of worship.

In the ancient days, a god was born when the name of an existence became known and worshipped. They sought to love and take care of mortals, filling in the parts that were missing.

'It isn't easy when I think about it.'

In an age when all gods had disappeared, where could divinity be obtained? What types of means could be used to collect believers in a world that was not religious, apart from the Lairon church?

In that sense, Theodore was fortunate. The ancient elementals themselves were fragments of the gods and had divinity from the start. Theodore established the temple of four elements in his body, and for a short time, he brought back Mitra's divinity.

However, the third piece wasn't as easy to fill. They needed followers who truly believed in the god. It used to be that hundreds of humans were sufficient, but not now. Now, at least tens of thousands of believers were needed. Furthermore, Theodore was a magician, not a priest. He might deify Mitra, but it wasn't enough to make her a god. He had forgotten about it until he encountered this situation.

Ellenoa understood what he said and nodded. "Aha, then we are in charge of Mitra's 'authority.' The mother of a great land. We will pray for Dmitra, who is related to the parent tree."

"Ah, but she can't become Mother Earth. The three divinities of the sky, sea, and earth… This isn't an exact calculation, but it would require 'authority' 30 times the size of Elvenheim."

"3-30 times…! It is great, Mitra."

[Hoi?] Mitra made a confused sound as she heard her name. Then she laughed and clung to the wall. Despite her mystical powers, she was just like a mountain girl.

[Yes, Mitra is amazing! Always like this!]

"Yes, now it is time to become more amazing."

[Hoing!]

Theodore opened his arms, and Mitra rushed into them. She was like a cicada clinging to a tree. As he carried Mitra on his back, Theodore and Ellenoa walked side by side. Every time they took a step, the light got closer. This was a spot on the branch of the world tree where the tribes gathered when there were important matters.

Step.

There were three steps left when Ellenoa's pace slowed. She hadn't even been in this forest for 10 years. Theodore wondered if this was too much of a heavy burden, but Ellenoa was a high elf with a good nobility. Additionally, the power of the elemental rulers was essential to Theodore's plan.

Ellenoa seemed embarrassed about her delay in walking. "Ah…"

Her palm wasn't firm like that of a magician. She placed her hand on top of Theodore's rough palm.

Why…? The trembling of her body suddenly stopped.

"Let's go, Ellenoa," his steady voice calmed her.

"Yes, Theodore."

The two people walked into the blinding white light together.

* * *

There was a forest. It was easy to mistake it for Elvenheim, but there were a few other species besides the elves. There were the ents that integrated with the forest and protected the ecosystem, as well as the dryads. Additionally, there were the lizardmen from the swamps and the beast clan.

"Everyone, thank you for gathering," Ellenoa's voice didn't tremble at all despite there being thousands of people before her. Her clear voice calmed down the area, and everyone, regardless of species, concentrated on her words. The high elves, dressed in the ceremonial clothing and boasting a mystical atmosphere, were the pride of the forest.

"I think that everyone knows the threat that we and this forest face. The evil dragon from the myths, he looks down from the sky and wants to burn our world tree."

Ellenoa was calm despite her angry words. However, her calm created a bigger ripple. The people listening silently were overwhelmed with enough anger to forget their fear. It was proof they were assimilating Ellenoa's feelings.

"We have tried to guard this forest, but we are helpless."

Before the evil dragon that possessed transcendent power, the only thing the inhabitants of the forest could do was either run, die, or pray. Filled with powerlessness and remorse, Ellenoa continued saying, "We thought we anticipated the future, but we were ignorant."

The high elves, who could summon the elemental rulers, were arrogant and thought they could defend the forest with their own strength. In the past, they had thought they could defeat all disasters and misfortunes. It was a stupid wisdom. That's right.

She mourned in front of everyone, "Therefore, I prayed to the parent tree.��

From here on out, it was the pre-written script.

"I didn't know where to go and how to overcome this difficulty, causing me to pray to the parent tree." As Ellenoa continued in a sad voice, she called Nohengrin under the ground. She reduced the power and presence of the summoning as much as possible so the others wouldn't notice.

Once she told him the purpose of this summoning, Nohengrin responded in a pleasant voice, "Then I received the answer!"

It was true that they had gotten permission from the world tree. However, the consciousness of the world tree hadn't grown yet, so it couldn't use that power freely. Fortunately, the world tree responded positively to Mitra's mana, so Theodore's plan would work.

As those present started to respond to Ellenoa's speech, Ellenoa and Theodore thought almost simultaneously, 'Now!'

At the same time, a large stone pillar appeared in the middle of the empty space before Ellenoa.

Kukukukukung…

No, it was an egg, rather than a stone pillar. The pillar in front of Ellenoa had an oval shape. It seemed like it had soared up at her call. Ellenoa stroked the surface of the smooth stone egg and finished the play.

"The parent tree called a god."

The crowd stirred at the word 'god', while Ellenoa continued to the end without losing her flow.

"After the Age of Mythology, few deities remained in this world. Mother Earth, the beginning of the world tree Yggdrasil and the name of the great goddess!"

The rock egg was split in half.

"Dmitra!" Ellenoa raised her voice as much as possible. Unfortunately for her, the effort had little meaning. She didn't need to do anything more because the crowd in front of the world tree was already captivated by the girl who emerged from the rock egg.

She had wheat-colored hair that went down to her waist, two eyes that shone with a mysterious light, and ocher skin. Butterflies danced in the air around her, while the gnomes, famous for their invisible appearance, showed up. Just after that, the smiling girl held out her hands to the ground, and branches started to sprout from the world tree.

The dry skin peeled off, and green buds grew. They bloomed all at the same time. It was a spectacular sight that could be called 'A Hundred Flowers.' The inhabitants of the forest saw the flowers blooming under their feet and realized this wasn't a mere gimmick.

"I-It is a real god…!"

Theodore's partnership with the world tree was only brief, but there was no need to worry anymore. The reaction of people who saw miracles was the same in every age. They would feel honored, fearful, and either reject or challenge it. The inhabitants of the forest worshipped the world tree, so there was only one choice.

"D-Dmitra! The earth goddess!"

"Please save us, Dmitra!"

"We believe in you!"

They kneeled down and lowered their heads. No one forced them to do so, but the beast clan laid down their pride and bowed before the great being. It went without saying for the ents and dryads. They followed Mitra's orders before she even revealed her identity, and now they were completely submissive.

[Hoong?]

Then something strange happened. Mitra, who was in her early teens, started to grow further. Her slender limbs elongated, and her flat body started to develop curves. Mitra's innocent eyes filled with mischief, while her wheat-colored hair grew longer.

[Hihihi! A lot bigger?]

Based on the way humans aged, Mitra now seemed to be somewhere between 16 and 18 years old. Having turned bigger in an instant, she laughed while touching her arms.

'…No, it isn't just her body. Her divinity also grew,' Theodore admired inwardly as he watched Mitra.

It was as he said. Her constantly rising power purified the odors and poisons of the undead from the bloody battle a while ago, causing the flowers and grass to raise their heads despite Nídhöggur's dark sky. This was the power of Dmitra, the goddess of plants.

[Theo!]

Theodore was surprised by the sudden call and answered stupidly, "Y-Yes?"

Mitra giggled and said playfully, [Thanks for raising me!]

"…Are you a cat or a dog?"

[Hihihi! Then can I call you 'Father'?]

"Eek."

Theodore paled at the thought of being called 'Father' when he wasn't even married. Meanwhile, Mitra turned her head. [Hung! Theo is a father to Mitra!]

Then she turned toward the surprised Ellenoa. [Theo is Father, then Ellenoa is Mother! How about it?]

"Huh?!"

"What?"

The Theodore and Ellenoa were shocked by Mitra's words and avoided each other's eyes. Mitra shook her head with a chuckle at the sight. Her playfulness had increased, and she had the ability to catch them off guard. She looked between Theodore and Ellenoa before clapping. [Ah, both of you are too shy. I need to use a lot of effort to make it progress quickly.]

Then she pointed to the sky with her finger and shouted in the exact direction of Nídhöggur, [So, you! That black thing over there! Get lost!]

A sullen voice was heard from the sky in response, -Cheeky little girl.

There was a white light. Then the ward, that Hraesvelgr had made, cracked repeatedly and soon disappeared without a trace. The shape of a dragon with huge horns protruded from the crack in the blackened sky. It was a transcendent that was the embodiment of fear.

This was the encounter between the evil dragon, Nídhöggu, and Earth Goddess, Dmitra.

Chapter 332 – Dmitra (3)

Theodore's body stiffened as he saw the sky. The presence of the terrifying creature, Nídhöggur, surrounded Theodore on all sides. He was able to protect his body, but the rest of the mortals fell to the ground without daring to look up at the sky.

Nídhöggur was a being they couldn't even face! No, it was good that it was this way. Theodore took short breaths.

'…We would be dead without Mitra.'

This wasn't a joke. As he stared at Mitra, he could see that the power stretching out from her was offsetting the power pressing down from that black sky. It was like a fly falling after being hit by a sudden clap. Just like how people didn't hesitate to trample on ants, Nídhöggur had no need to think about slaughtering mortals.

The malevolence of the 'Sneering Butcher', Nídhöggur, was worse than they had imagined.

-Kuhuhu, you say that you are going to deal with this body? Nídhöggur silenced Elvenheim from the distant sky.

Compared to the dragon that blocked the sun with one command and ripped the sky apart, the girl with the wheat-colored hair looked so small. For a moment, Dmitra, the ancient elemental who had become the incarnation of the world tree, looked like a victim before the evil dragon, rather than a goddess.

However, she was far more prominent than anyone else in this room.

[Yes, you stupid person!] Mitra puffed up her chest and placed her hands on her waist. She countered the evil dragon without taking a step back. [The sky is dark because of you! Too disruptive! Can't you read the mood? You, no friends!]

-What nonsense are you saying?

[If you have one, call them. A person who can't read the atmosphere won't have any friends!]

-This girl! Nídhöggur's raised his voice at the slander. -For a great demon king, other existences are either slaves or enemies to be killed. Therefore, I have no need for friends!

[Yes, yes. I heard your excuse. My score is 0 points!]

-W-What is wrong with you?

While the transcendents who had challenged the realm of the gods were in the double digits, how many of them had dared to mock Nídhöggur from the Age of Mythology? Countering wisdom with humor, he couldn't argue with a childish girl like her.

However, Dmitra didn't stop after raising Nídhöggur's blood pressure.

[People who don't have friends talk like this. You tell me that you don't need friends. Then why did you come to another person's house and cause a disturbance? In fact, you were lonely because you have no friends to play with!]

-...

[Don't you think you are lonely? Do you want to be Mitra's friend? How about it?]

Finally, Nídhöggur had no more patience.

-…It is now.

[Yes?]

-This damn world, I will blow it away with my breath. I will make sure it doesn't come back again!

Subsequently, Nídhöggur opened his mouth, and poison emerged from it. He aimed the poison at Mitra. It was a level of poison where even a god wouldn't be safe. Dmitra bit her lips and gathered her strength to prepare for the incoming wave.

'It's coming.' Theodore, who had been paralyzed by Nídhöggur, sensed something.

This poison was just a prelude to the breath. The real attack would come pouring out next. The breath filled up with Nastrond's death energy. It was a rotten breath that didn't distinguish between the body or the soul.

Then just after that…

Kuooooooh!

From the heavily ripped crack in the sky, Nídhöggur's breath blew forth like a fog over the ground. It didn't seem to have much destructive power, and its speed wasn��t fast. However, the air became heavier as the energy slowly descended to the ground.

The masters who recognized it were fearful and took action first. The moment the fog covered the forest, everything in Elvenheim would die.

"Damn!"

Flames once again emerged from the transformed Veronica's mouth, and the guardians unleashed all their strength at once. The storm arrows, thunderstorms, and other chain attacks launched at the fog of death. Did it work…? No, the destructive power of the fog was too high.

"…Dammit, it didn't work at all!" Veronica paled unconsciously.

Her breath that was comparable to a pureblood red dragon only destroyed a little bit of the poison, while the attacks of the guardians only made it a few meters into the fog. Nídhöggur's breath was still descending to the surface of the earth without a bit of hesitation.

[Don't be afraid!] Mitra extended her palms without any fear. [I will stop that stupid dragon's bad breath!]

The present Dmitra wasn't like the old Mother Earth. The faith of Elvenheim was lacking to regain her mighty divinity, so Theodore used the second best thing—the world tree, Yggdrasil. The sacred tree found in the myths was a symbol of the origin of life and wasn't lacking divinity at all.

'In addition to that, I cooperated with Nohengrin…!'

As such, it was possible to control this Great Forest.

While Theodore was thinking this, Dmitra finally moved. She was now the incarnation of the world tree and a goddess of this forest. As Dmitra moved her hands, the earth shook, and something rose from the ground.

Kukukukukung!

Tree roots, rocks, and dirt… The deeply buried roots of the world tree had the length and thickness of large walls, and they rose up like a kraken's legs. In response to Dmitra's call, the tree roots and dirt tangled together to make a pair of huge hands. The old saying about how the sky couldn't be covered with two palms seemed to be a lie.

[Eeit!] Dmitra moved the hands and joined them together as if to seal the hole in the sky.

The story about the giant (Atlas) who held up the sky in the past came to mind. The fog of death was pushed back into the crack by the pressure, and Nídhöggur's presence was blocked, temporarily returning the freedom of the Elvenheim residents. They looked up at the sky supported by two palms. Some sighed with relief while others cheered.

"Ohh…! The evil dragon's appearance is gone!"

"M-My body can move! I'm alive!"

"Hooray, Dmitra! Goddess of the forest!"

"The world tree is looking after us!"

However, it was still too early to cheer. Theodore, Veronica, and the high elves were watching the sky, and their faces weren't bright. The cheering eventually stopped. If the evil dragon had really disappeared, the sky wouldn't still be black. He might be hidden by the hands, but it was proof that he was still present beyond the sky.

"Mitra, are you okay?" Theodore was behind her and could discover it immediately.

Mitra's neck was soaked with sweat despite having become a god. To think that A spiritual body that didn't have any physiological functions was sweating…? There could only be one reason for it.

[T-Theo…] Dmitra's face was pale. [Ohh, he is getting angry. It is hard.]

"Then why did you make fun of him? How is the situation?"

[I can still hold on. But the condition of the tree is getting worse…]

"Tree? Ah." Theodore realized who she was referring to and looked at the palms holding up the sky. The origin of these palms was the roots of Yggdrasil. It was impossible for the tree to not be affected after directly blocking Nídhöggur's breath.

"This…" Theodore found some signs and sighed. It was because the edges of the palms had become black and rotten.

However, it wasn't just that. It was slow, but both palms were gradually becoming black. Mitra's power was still holding it up. However, if this continued, both palms would collapse, and the breath would fall down again. Theodore prepared his heart and pulled out the dragon heart. "Mitra, draw on my strength."

[B-But…]

"If you are suppressed, then I will die anyway. Didn't you say it is hard?"

[…Theo is a liar!]

"Haha, maybe." Theodore smiled bitterly as he faced the tears in Dmitra's eyes. He wasn't in a position to complain. Theodore Miller would sacrifice his life if they could overcome this crisis. Mitra had been with him for several years and knew it well. She didn't try to say anything to convince him.

[I will win.] She faced Nídhöggur with a more serious expression. [If I win, Theo will be okay!]

Then the magic power in Theodore's body started to be sucked out. To be precise, the magic power of the dragon heart flowed into Theodore's body and then into Dmitra. Thanks to that, his actual magic power consumption wasn't large. The problem was that Theodore felt burdened from the process of passing an absurd amount of magic power through his body. He was in pain, feeling like a few of his blood vessels were bursting.

'I can't stop. I will die if I am weak!'

Fortunately, the effect was immediately apparent. The blackened palms regained their color, and flowers and grass grew from the roots, purifying the poison. This was a phenomenon that was impossible without the power of a true divinity. If this was the case, then Nídhöggur had no way of returning to this world.

Theodore was briefly relieved thinking about the optimistic future when a voice rang out.

-You. You will never live.

Theodore froze at Nídhöggur's words.

Jjejejeok!

The spread out breath became more concentrated, gathering at one point in order to kill Theodore. Theodore hadn't expected such an attack. Nídhöggur wanted to kill Theodore and return, rather than destroy the forest or the world tree? In retrospect, that wasn't weird since all the obstructions had started from Theodore.

-Die.

It was a death sentence.

Kiiiing.

Beyond the sky and the limits of the palm, a purple light fell toward Theodore. He knew the result of the death glare. His body would be shattered by the light, and it would dig all the way into the mantle. This flash of light was ultimate magic that couldn't be defeated. Nídhöggur launched an all-out attack, regardless of the damage to himself. No matter what, the young Theodore Miller couldn't escape the fate of death.

However…

"This is a handshake. Dumb little lizard." Theodore laughed.

Flash!

Simultaneously, a golden light enveloped Theodore's body. It was divine power! The power of a mighty god from the Age of Mythology devoured the ray trying to kill Theodore. It was a force comparable to that of Nídhöggur's breath. This was a god's immortality that couldn't be penetrated.

'Thank you, Balor! I'll keep my promise with you!'

The eternal protection that symbolized the sun god, Balor. It was the best defense from the Age of Mythology that invalidated any attack except from mistletoe! Theodore didn't pay any attention to the scattering of Nídhöggur's breath as he flew off the ground.

In the crack that started to disappear, he could see Nídhöggur's confused face!

"Get lost from this world!" Theodore became temporarily invincible and held the dragon heart in his hand, undaunted by Nídhöggur's murky poison. Theodore drew out mana at such a rapid rate that it felt like he was going to explode. Like setting fire to oil, he used the strongest magic he had available.

Great magic Abraxas (ΑΒΡΑΞΑΣ).

Final Chapter.

Four beads combined to create a sphere containing tremendous power. If the explosive power of the dragon heart was added to it, then he would have the strength to smash the nose of that arrogant lizard! Nídhöggur's face stiffened just before Theodore dealt the stunning blow.

-W-Wait a minute…!

"Elemental Buster!"

The light from Abraxas appeared as the dragon heart cracked.

――――――――――――――――!

There was a big explosion that shook the boundaries of this dimension.

Chapter 333 – Dmitra (4)

-Kuaaack! Nídhöggur's scream rang out through the sky and the ground. It was difficult for a body with a time limit to cope with the shock of the big explosion.

This was the result of Abraxas being used with magic of the 8th circle and the dragon heart. The explosion, which burst from the repulsion of two forces, caused the dimension to shake. Once the light from the big explosion subsided…

"…Pfft!" Theodore laughed reflexively.

It was because of Nídhöggur's face that was revealed through the rapidly shrinking crack. Due to the powerful shockwave, Nídhöggur's head was bloody. His scales which couldn't be damaged by aura blades were now shattered like glass, and one of his eyes was pushed into its socket. It was like a super huge battle hammer had slammed onto the top of his head.

-Y-You…! Mortal man from this lesser world!

The dragon from the myth was covered with blood. He struggled with the pain and poured out anger toward the one who harmed his body. Although only one of Nídhöggur's red eyes could be seen, Theodore felt the space around him freeze. However, Theodore realized that the pressure was much weaker than earlier, and he nodded casually. "Don't growl in my face. Your pride won't be regained through these actions."

-What nonsense are you saying?

"Think about it. It might be okay if you lost to Hraesvelgr. But being hit by a mortal… Oh, right. I had forgotten," Theodore muttered in a voice loud enough to be heard by Nídhöggur. His mouth formed a sneer like he was mocking Nídhöggur. "You have no friends? This is a good thing."

In the end, the last of Nídhöggur's patience was broken. -Kuaaaaaah!

Before the fearsome roar, Theodore covered his ears but didn't back away. He didn't look scared or intimidated. It was because the crack in the dimensional world was almost closed. No matter how powerful Nídhöggur was, he was in another dimension and couldn't do anything unless someone summoned him again.

Nídhöggur's eyes were filled with anger, madness, and hate as he stared at Theodore.

-Taunting this body! Someday I will catch you and chew on yo—…!

At this moment, the dimensional crack closed, and Nídhöggur's words were cut off. The evil dragon was sent off in a disgraced manner. However, Theodore kept looking up at the sky.

"Ah…!"

Then he could see it. The darkness covering the sky slowly got a center of light. The sky was blue, and the warm sunlight flooded their eyes like it had been there from the beginning. The elves and members of other species felt strange chills as they looked up at the sky. The darkness that had been covering the sky disappeared, and everything was as it should be.

"O…Over? Can we relax?"

"Alive… We're alive!"

"Ohh, incarnation of the world tree!"

Joy and disbelief mixed together as the crowd became increasingly disorderly. The confusion needed to be calmed down. Theodore delivered instructions to the one whom he thought was the most suitable—the chief contributor to this incident.

[H-Hoing? Me?] Dmitra made a sound, and the people stopped talking and paid attention to her.

She was the incarnation of the world tree who had faced the evil dragon and protected the forest! Naturally, awe filled the eyes of the people. There were even those who didn't dare look at her and had their eyes lowered to the ground. The area became silent in a flash.

[…Ha, hahaha…] Dmitra seemed embarrassed by their attitudes. She scratched the back of her head before raising her right fist up into the air.

It was difficult for her to speak, but she spoke concisely, [Nídhöggur is gone!]

As soon as she pointed to the sky with her fist, the people raised their fists with her.

[We won for everyone who lives in this forest!]

The large crowd cheered. Waaaaaaaah!

The various species were overflowing with joy. The furry bears carrying dryads on their shoulders swayed, while the rabbits riding on ents were dancing. The elves sighed with relief and relaxed, and the rest of the crowd followed. They had struggled against the undead for a long time, and there had been the advent of the evil dragon, Nídhöggur. This was a memory they would never forget.

'Sigh, it is over.'

This time, it was a really big incident. Theodore stood behind Dmitra and locked eyes with Ellenoa, who was waiting for him with a gentle expression. Then he saw tears fall from her eyes.

"E-Ellenoa?"

"…We did it," Ellenoa spoke in a small voice before taking a few steps and hugging Theodore.

Was it due to the difference in physique between the two people? It was clearly Ellenoa who was hugging him. Ellenoa spoke to the embarrassed Theodore in her arms, "I was worried."

"I-I'm sorry."

"Do you really know? I was worried a lot."

Theodore smiled wryly as his fists pounded weakly on his chest. "…Yes."

Finally, more tears fell down her cheek, and Theodore couldn't help touching them. It was a warm and wet feeling. Theodore wiped away Ellenoa's tears with his index finger, while her green eyes looked up at him like she was drunk.

"Ah…" He wasn't dumb and knew the meaning of those eyes. Her face tilted and got closer. However, the moment the eyes of Ellenoa and Theodore got closer…

"Hmm?"

"Ah."

Both of them felt a blatant gaze and looked in that direction. Simultaneously, Theodore and Ellenoa stiffened.

[Why did you stop? I don't mind.] Dmitra finished her short words and chuckled, resting her chin on her hands as she gazed at the two people.

She smiled mischievously. The innocent Ellenoa's intentions were exposed, and she fled with a red face. "P-Please don't look!"

"Ellenoa!"

Dmitra laughed at the sight. [Hihihi! Indeed, Mother Ellenoa is naive.]

"Mitra, you are a troublemaker…" Theodore stopped speaking when he felt a sense of incongruity. Then he looked Dmitra up and down, and immediately realized why he sensed something was off.

"Mitra, why is your body smaller?"

That's right. It was because Dmitra's size had shrunk. Dmitra was surprised when Theodore pointed it out, and her eyes widened. [Hoing! Theo is right. At the most, I am 10 centimeters shorter.]

"Isn't a decrease of 10 centimeters a big change? Don't talk about that. Tell me why you are smaller."

[Understood. Mitra is a good daughter, hihihi.] Dmitra made a small joke before touching a tree trunk that was slightly darkened. [The tree is becoming weaker.]

"What?"

[It used a lot of power to make me into this state and sucked up a lot of poison. It didn't reach the roots, but a considerable amount of health was consumed.]

As Dmitra touched the world tree with sad eyes, Theodore hastened to make a diagnosis. Despite not being a god, he was connected to Dmitra's senses and had overflowing knowledge as a magician. Theodore quickly realized the state of the world tree. "Shit, this isn���t good."

It was a situation he hadn't expected, but he quickly realized the cause of it. This wouldn't have happened if the world tree was a fully grown world tree. The problem was that Elvenheim's world tree was immature, and there was no new Arv to help its growth. In such an environment, there was the summoning of Hraesvelgr, turning Mitra into a god, and blocking Nídhöggur's attack… It would be strange if there were no problems.

"Your power has already returned to the world tree?"

[Yes.]

"But it is still in this state…"

Dmitra, who had become Mitra again, nodded with a gloomy expression. The fact that there was no difference meant that the world tree had consumed a large amount of power. Theodore's face stiffened as he saw the leaves of the world tree. The leaves, which had always been green, was now slightly yellow, and the branches, which should be as hard as steel, were now easily broken.

"…It looks like there is one more thing to solve."

The worst was over. The presence of the world tree was as large as life for the inhabitants of this forest, but this was a minor challenge compared to Nídhöggur. A world tree that had yet to grow up needed to stockpile vitality for its growth. If it failed to compensate for this, it would die in some years, maybe decades. From this point on, it was a matter that needed to be discussed with the real top leaders of the great forest, the high elves.

"Well, it should be okay for a few days."

Fortunately, this problem wasn't something that needed to be solved in a day or two. Unlike the evil dragon, Nídhöggur, there were several solutions for this. So, there was no need to pour cold water on those who were tired from the hard fight. Theodore looked up at the clear blue sky. It was a sight that everyone in the forest could see.

"The clear and blue sky is the best."

Theodore had seen the scenery of Nastrond behind Nídhöggur through the gap in the dimension. When the sky and earth were swallowed up by darkness earlier, the screams of those who suffered forever had seemed to tear at his eardrums. If the evil dragon, Nídhöggur, had swallowed up the world tree, this material world would've turned into the same hell as Nastrond.

'That can't happen.'

In the childhood he couldn't remember well, Theodore had dreamt of being a magician who fought against an evil dragon. He had never thought that dream would become a reality.

"Kuk," Theodore giggled in a somewhat pleasant mood as he stared at the distant sky above the trees.

Chapter 334 – Promised Night (1)

Jerem might've used magic as a last resort, but it ended up being good for the Great Forest.

What would've happened if the 200,000 undead army had survived? What if the leader was lost and the undead ran out of control through the forest?

Putting aside the defeat of Jerem and Nídhöggur, it would make cleaning things up more difficult. This was because the rotten bodies of the undead contained a deadly poison. There was also tainted mana in their blood. This mana contained the power to deny life and would cause damage if it overflowed everywhere.

However, Jerem had destroyed the undead. It had been a decision he made in order for Nídhöggur to last even one minute longer. As it happened, this misjudgment had saved Elvenheim and the Great Forest.

The undead had lost all the mana and poison, and became great fertilizer for the forest. There was no need for an unnecessary struggle, and the residents of the Great Forest could disperse throughout the devastated forest. The southern part of the battlefield was damaged, but the east and west areas received relatively little damage and regained their original appearance.

'It will take more time to be completely restored, but… well, it isn't considered a long time for the elves.'

There was a big difference between the concept of time for humans and elves. Unlike humans who became impatient if they were one day late, the elves could wait weeks for tea leaves. Theodore sighed with relief as he looked around the forest. "I'm glad there isn't any damage that can't be recovered."

Essentially, this situation had been caused by Theodore. During the fight against Invidia, he hadn't thought about the future and released Jerem. This had developed into a catastrophic threat to the entire forest. Jerem was somehow defeated and the forest was defended, but over 1,000 elves lost their lives in combat. The high elves comforted him, but he couldn't ignore the responsibility.

The restoration of the world tree was the best thing that Theodore could do for this forest.

Step, step.

At that moment, a number of elves entered Theodore's room. No, this sentence was a little bit strange. They were the true keepers of the world tree, those who inherited the Arv's lineage. These were the leaders who represented Elvenheim. Among the high elves, Alucard with the impressive dark skin asked, "Theodore, what is going on?"

It seemed he was worried about why Theodore gathered them in this place when they were busy for a few days. Theodore looked around silently before tapping the table, as if telling them to sit down.

Then he began his story, "First of all, thank you for answering my call. I wanted to talk to you after your work was done, but there is something you have to be prepared for."

The expressions of the high elves changed at his words. Naia still looked sleepy, but her ears flinched, showing she was affected. There was something regarding the Great Forest or Elvenheim which the high elves needed to know…? They couldn't help wondering about it.

As the story flowed from Theodore's mouth, astonishment filled the eyes of the high elves.

"What?" Alisa confirmed the words she just heard in a voice that was a few octaves higher. "The power of the world tree has really weakened?"

"Yes, it is true."

"T-The time remaining? You didn't tell us as soon as you discovered it. Does this mean the situation isn't urgent?"

Theodore nodded in response to Alisa's question. "My calculations is 50 years at the earliest and 70 years at the latest."

"This is an emergency!"

It was unexpected. Unlike the relaxed Theodore, the high elves were turned upside down. Alisa screamed, and Alucard tightened his grip on the wood. Meanwhile, Lumia covered her mouth with a grim expression, and Ellenoa was similar to her. Titania had no expression, and Theodore couldn't read Naia's expression.

Theodore belatedly realized the reason why and sighed. 'Damn, humans have a different concept of time.'

Human life was really short compared to the high elves who lived for a thousand years. The elves found it difficult to understand the urgency of the human race, but this perception was reversed when it came to decades. 10 years was a long time for humans, but for an elf, it was equivalent to one human year. It wasn't a long time for them. Therefore, a period of 50–70 years was equivalent to 5–7 years. It was no wonder why they felt the issue was urgent.

"…Are there any measures to be taken?" Naia asked Theodore before anyone else. "You wouldn't call us if you didn't have any measures."

"There are three things."

"Tell us."

The two people started the conversation in earnest, while the rest closed their mouth and focused on the conversation. Normally, she would be sleeping, but Naia was famous for her wisdom. In some ways, she was the best candidate to handle this situation. Theodore nodded and opened his mouth, "The first thing is to restore the destroyed forest beyond its original state as soon as possible."

"Beyond the original state?"

"Yes."

Naia nodded to show she understood the meaning. "You want to reverse the link of mutual growth. The forest can help the world tree grow."

"That's right."

"But the strength of the forest alone isn't enough. The second method?"

The conversation between Theodore and Naia continued before the other elves could understand.

"That's right. Before the undead attack, the vitality of this forest was less than the world tree. If so, it will be lacking even if we raise the vitality."

"It is impossible with the native life. Are you going to bring an outside source?"

"Yes, look at this."

Theodore pulled out a fox from inside his robe. It was a sleeping three-tailed fox, Tres.

Yiippp…? The three-tailed fox woke up and buried his head into Theodore when he saw the six high elves looking at him.

"This fox?" Naia asked with a strange expression.

Theodore laughed and revealed Tres' identity, "It is a spirit."

"Spi…rit?"

"They existed on the West Continent in ancient times, but now they are only found in the East Continent across the sea. They affect the growth rate of animals and plants, and the world tree is included in that category."

Of course, the world tree's power was too great to compare to spirits, and the world tree itself was comparable to a mighty divinity. The high elves looked convinced while Theodore stroked Tres' tail.

"If you accept this young spirit in the forest, you can circulate a much greater vitality than the old forest."

"Umm… I'm convinced. Then where will we get so many spirits? Ah, don't tell me."

"Yes, I will bring them from the East. As well as…"

Before Naia could speak, Theodore pulled out a pouch. The high elves smelled the fragrance flowing from the pouch and couldn't help groaning. The elves' senses were more sensitive than those of humans, and the mana purity coming from the pouch was strong enough to affect the high elves. It was coming from the seeds and seedlings remaining of the gift that the spirits of the Baekun Mountains had given Theodore.

"It will help if you plant these seeds. Isn't that right, Naia?"

"…It means it will also help you."

"Yes, please don't think of this as owing me."

"You are different from most humans. You should be a bit more greedy.���

Theodore shrugged at Naia's compliment that wasn't a compliment while she smiled. However, Naia still hadn't heard the third method. "The last one?"

"The most important role… Ellenoa?"

"Ah, yes?" Ellenoa was surprised by the sudden call.

Then Theodore spoke with a smile, "The power of the world tree was consumed not only because it blocked Nídhöggur's breath but from helping Mitra become a god. We need a mediator to obtain the 'faith' and the strength that was passed onto Dmitra, and give it back to Yggdrasil."

"Mediator?"

"The expression is a little bad. Just as high elves are called the 'dancers' of the world tree, the gods have a corresponding role."

Gods had existed since ancient times and had followers to spread the religion. The name of this special role was similar—Saintess, a link between gods and mortals.

"I think that Ellenoa is best suited for the role of Mitra's Saintess."

"That… Why?"

"Ellenoa has contracted with the earth elemental ruler, and Mitra also wants you. The final reason isn't significant." Theodore smiled as he walked in front of Ellenoa. "I think the same as Mitra."

"…"

"If the burden is too much—"

"N-No!" Ellenoa quickly shook her head. "I will do it."

"But…"

"If Theodore thinks I am the right person then I will do it."

"Ellenoa…"

Alisa couldn't tolerate the subtle atmosphere between the two people and interrupted, "Well, isn't this good? I'll leave it up to you. I'm already tired from all my other roles."

"I think so as well. The others?"

After Alisa and Lumia's words, Alucard and the rest of the high elves nodded. The conclusion was decided so quickly that it was embarrassing, but there were no objections. Theodore read the atmosphere and called Mitra.

[Hoing! The great Mitra has appeared!] Mitra sprang up from the ground with a wild tumble.

The high elves couldn't read Mitra because she had become the incarnation of the world tree and assimilated with it. She could appear anywhere in the Great Forest that the world tree's roots reached.

[Mother Ellenoa! You are going to be my Saintess? Really? Really?]

"Really. B-But the word 'mother'…" Ellenoa's face turned red and she couldn't finish her words.

Mitra asked her, [Huhihi, it is for a future joy? Well, okay. I will call you my Saintess if you prefer…]

The girl with the wheat-colored hair appeared serious for a moment before she laughed, looking between Theodore and Ellenoa. A wicked expression was on her face. Before Theodore could stop her, Mitra used her power.

"Uh!"

There was a sense of pressure that didn't contain any animosity. Theodore's body tensed, and he couldn't keep his eyes away from the scene before him. Mitra gathered the now limited power of Dmitra in her palm. Pink, blue, red, and orange… The gathered flowers of different colors turned into the shape of a ring. Apart from the divine power coming from it, this was an accessory that looked no different from a well-made floral ring.

[Now!] Then Mitra handed the ring to Theodore.

"Why did you hand me this?"

[Hihihi, Theodore should put it on instead of me.]

"What?!"

[Then this Mitra is leaving!] Mitra sunk into the ground again and didn't respond to Theodore's call. No, in this case, she deliberately didn't respond. So, he couldn't forcibly bring her back.

"Sigh, I guess it can't be helped. Mitra is too playful…"

Ellenoa's face was pink as she held her fingers forward. It was her left hand. Theodore didn't know if Ellenoa knew the customs of humans or not, but the situation ended up like this.

"…Thank you, Ellenoa."

In the end, Theodore placed the flower ring on Ellenoa's finger. Simultaneously, another direction opened in the connection between Theodore and Mitra. Due to the contractual relationship, he could feel Ellenoa's presence in the role of a 'Saintess.' Ellenoa looked down at the ring on her finger with a bemused expression.

Clap, clap, clap! At that moment, Alucard cleaned up the situation by clapping. "I don't understand everything yet, but this seems to be settled. Theodore, is it okay to keep the rest of the story for after tonight?"

"Is something happening tonight?"

"A festival."

Theodore's eyes widened, and Alucard smiled bitterly.

"Even if we won, many colleagues were lost. Tonight's festival is a chance to comfort the souls of the dead and to encourage the living. As our savior and friend, we hope you will also participate."

"…Okay, I will do so."

"Thank you. The others will be delighted."

Perhaps this festival would be Theodore's farewell ceremony. Thus, he nodded readily, and Alucard left the room with a happy expression. Meanwhile, Lumia and Alisa enjoyed the long-awaited break, Titania was bored and looked for something to do, and Naia placed her face against the table and slept.

Ellenoa was still looking at her finger.

"…Tonight."

She touched the flower ring and seemed to be smelling it. Ellenoa gained strength from the ring on her left hand.

"Tonight," she murmured in an unusually determined voice.

Chapter 335 – Promised Night (2)

The sun set as always. However, the forest was more turbulent than usual.

It was because the news of the 'festival' had spread throughout the forest as Elvenheim invited each species. Although it might seem strange to hold a festival a few days after a big battle, that was only from the viewpoint of a human. The residents of the Great Forest were accustomed to the food chain and accepted the invitation with pleasure.

The ents moved in a rare manner, while the dryads sang happily. Joyful songs, musical instruments, and cheerful voices rang out through the forest.

In particular, the square of the world tree, where the main guests were gathered, was very lively.

"Now! Let's have a toast for our friend, Theodore Miller, who has come from a faraway place!" Alucard raised a wooden cup and shouted in a loud voice. "Cheers!"

Theodore smiled as he raised his cup in accordance with everyone else. In fact, the act of toasting wasn't part of the elves' customs. However, they followed along after seeing him and Veronica bump cups a few times. That's why the people sitting here were becoming drunk much faster than usual. It was natural that they would lose their pace when drinking alcohol according to the pace of others.

The sudden development of bad habits caused Theodore to feel awkward.

"Hiccup."

The worst victim was sitting on his left.

"Ellenoa, aren't you drinking too much?"

"Ah… Not yet, still okay. Hiccup."

"You don't look okay…"

Her skin was red, and her tongue was twisted. However, she looked at Theodore with a clear focus. He didn't know if she was completely drunk, but it should be fine if she said so. Additionally, his drinking partner wasn't just Ellenoa.

"Hey, there are still more bottles, gorgeous young man!"

"Alisa, why are you calling me that? You look much younger than me."

High elf Alisa looked like a human in her late teens, and she chuckled at the words. Every woman, no matter the species, liked being told they looked young. However, high elves lived for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years. Alisa held a bottle to her lips and said, "What? Are you not accepting my cup?"

"No." Theodore lost his escape route and drank another cup of alcohol.

Then Lumia appeared next to him with another bottle. This was called facing a mountain after another mountain. Theodore had initially thought Lumia had a mature and reliable style, so he couldn't help feeling betrayed.

Lumia looked a little apologetic but still offered him the bottle sweetly. "Please share a cup with me for your troubles."

"…I understand." Theodore drank more than the average person at this party and felt his face burn up. It was because the alcohol from the elves was much stronger than he had thought. By now, he had already drunk a few bottles worth of alcohol. He tried to refuse, but six individuals kept trying to share a cup with him. Of course, the effect of the drinks quickly faded. However, Veronica was a little different.

"Come on, look inside." She sat on Theodore's right and lifted the bottle with a frown after discovering that inside was empty. Fortunately, she didn't seem to be angry.

"This one still has a bit left."

"Ah, thank you."

High elf Titania sat next to Veronica and filled up the cup in front of her. Despite having met for the first time a short while ago, they liked each other after trusting each other with their backs during the fight. The two women drank in a relaxed atmosphere.

The sound of singing and musical instruments stimulated their ears, and the atmosphere was good. A few hours flowed by.

"Ah." Ellenoa's cup fell over. It was proof that her vision was blurry.

Theodore realized it was time to stop her and opened his mouth, "You have drunk enough. Stop now."

Ellenoa looked up at him with a funny expression and asked with an excited voice, "Are you worried?"

Theodore nodded, ignoring his pounding heart. "Yes, I am worried."

"Then do you want to get some fresh air? Just like last time."

"That…" Theodore hesitated after being invited by Ellenoa.

Veronica laughed, pushing at his shoulder. She made a knowing smile, causing Ellenoa to blush.

"Go. It isn't too late in the night," Veronica told them.

"…Sigh, then let's go."

"Ah, yes."

Theodore held out his hand to Ellenoa, who rose from her seat and left the area with him. The high elves were either too drunk to know they had gone or left them alone. Veronica hummed as she looked at their backs before picking up a fruit. "Bah."

Only Titania was sober enough to read the mood and asked Veronica a question without hesitation, "Veronica."

"Huh?"

"I don't know much about the relationship between men and women, but… are you really okay with not following them?"

"Ah, really! You should pretend not to know!" Veronica suddenly yelled, causing the other high elves to look at her with surprise.

Veronica coughed a few times before closing her eyes for a moment. She seemed to be suppressing the feelings that were caused by Titania's words. Titania waited with an expressionless face. Then Veronica opened her eyes. "Well, didn't she seriously like the kid first?"

"Hrmm."

"She can only stay with Theodore for a night, while I will be with him for the rest of my life."

Veronica placed the fruit in her mouth. Then she chewed on it before spitting it out.

Spit! "What is this charcoal-like taste?"

The fruit that she had placed in her mouth tasted like fish that had been grilled over a campfire. Titania, who had been watching the entire process, tilted her body and filled Veronica's empty glass.

"Humans should know that we elves hate liars."

"Huh? Then?"

"Your lie just now… Yes, it is cute."

"W-What are you saying?!"

Titania giggled at Veronica's confused reaction and raised her cup.

The joyous night of celebration passed by.

* * *

On the other hand, Theodore walked behind Ellenoa. He got to know Elvenheim's geography while preparing for this battle, but he had no knowledge of where the high elves were staying. Therefore, Ellenoa led the way, and he had to follow. However, Theodore soon had to grab onto Ellenoa.

"Ah."

"Ellenoa!"

Her body had stumbled over stones. Fortunately, his hands were faster. Ellenoa's hot body temperature and smell were conveyed to Theodore as he held her. Ellenoa leaned on Theodore and whispered into his ears, "I can't walk anymore… Theodore, I'm sorry, but can you please take me to my room?"

It was a lethal temptation, whether she intended it or not.

"Of course."

"Huhu, please." Her smile was seductive despite her drunkenness.

Theodore shook off his thoughts and started moving. He was nervous about Ellenoa's breathing on his back and her skin sticking to his, but he somehow endured it. Theodore walked for a few more minutes in the direction she pointed and saw a wooden knot covered with an illusion.

'Is this really Ellenoa's bedroom?' Theodore stopped at the sudden thought.

Then Ellenoa whispered to him, "What's wrong?"

"Oh, nothing."

As he stepped into it, the bleak knot changed to another space. Theodore had experienced a tree knot used as a space door several times. It was something that even White Tower Master Orta had failed to reproduce.

"Is this Ellenoa's bedroom?"

"Today…"

"Huh?"

Ellenoa fell to the ground without responding to Theodore's question. Theodore turned to her and froze like a stone statue. His reaction was natural.

"Theodore." She gazed at Theodore with clear eyes, with no signs of drunkenness at all. "Do you remember the promise that night?"

She didn't need to explain what was promised.

"Yes."

"Then can I think of this ring as the answer?"

Ellenoa held up the finger with the flower ring. Unlike the elves who were born in the Great Forest and never left, she had once lived among in the human world. She had pored over the books about civilizations that humans had written, so it wouldn't be strange if she remembered some customs. A ring on the left hand was a symbol of marriage.

"…Ellenoa."

This couldn't be avoided anymore. He shouldn't avoid it. Turning his back on her courage and determination would be the worst betrayal. Theodore calmed his heart and spoke the words he hadn't been able to say previously.

"I like you." He wouldn't hesitate if that was all. "However, I don't think I am suitable to be your mate."

He couldn't make a high elf, who lived for thousands of years, happy. The present Theodore was too lacking. No, it wasn't merely a matter of time. For Theodore who always experienced all types of situations, being involved with humans or elves was a bad choice. He couldn't come up with an answer despite many years of suffering. Theodore scolded himself for being indecisive and making her wait.

"Me too." However, her voice was filled with warmth as she held his hands. "I am the same, Theodore."

Ellenoa opened her eyes, revealing the slight glittering of tears.

She grabbed Theodore's hands and confessed her feelings in an affectionate voice, "It might be because I am Mitra's Saintess or maybe it's because of the power of a high elf, but I can see it. Theodore is going to do great things in the future. I can't hold onto you greedily."

"Ellenoa…"

"I know that, but we have this place. Do you know? This alcohol is unusually strong. I've never once drunk it. I showed weakness in order to take advantage of your kindness and have tonight."

Did she seem ugly? Theodore shook his head. No, 'ugly' would be applied to people who betrayed their friends for riches or power. A pretty girl using cute tricks to gain someone's affection wasn't ugly. Ellenoa laughed despite shedding tears.

"Theodore, if so…" Her slender fingers moved to the edge of the veil on her shoulders as she spoke in a voice that made him melt. "Let me have tonight."

Her clothing fell to the ground. Then Theodore couldn't think anymore. No, he didn't want to think. From here on out, his brilliant mind wasn't a problem.

Theodore stepped forward and touched Ellenoa's shoulder. The cold breeze touched her skin along with his warm touch. The shadows of the two people overlapped on the bed as the long night began.

It was the end of the festival.

Chapter 336 – Five Years Later (1)

"…Umm." A man opened his eyes in an antique bed.

This man, who had black hair and blue eyes, slowly raised his impressive body and laughed when he didn't see anyone beside him. Had it already been a few years since that dream occurred? It was a memory he didn't want to forget even after a hundred years, but he felt ashamed when thinking of the dream.

"I'm not a teenager still going through puberty."

Theodore arranged the messy and crumpled bed sheet, and then unlocked the window.

Kkiiik. A blinding light filled the dark room without any delay.

The only device that used magic in his bedroom was the shade to block out light. As the sun rose halfway on the eastern horizon, the outline of Mana-vil filled Theodore's view.

The buildings were much taller than they had been a few years ago, and the magic lights that had yet to be turned off lingered on the streets. The red magic lamp which reported emergencies in Meltor was turned off today, and the day started as always.

'I will be able to have a peaceful day today.'

After the great battle at Elvenheim, the struggles centering on Theodore subsided for a while.

The civil uprising in Andras and the chaos in the central part of the continent after Lairon disappeared had bothered him for a while, but it wasn't a big deal. In comparison to the 9th circle warlock who had tried to put the world tree in Nídhöggur's hands, the disputes between nations seemed cute.

Theodore thought about the past for a while before turning around. "Goetia."

[Yes, Master,] the ring on his right hand, Ars Goetia, responded to the call in a gentle voice.

"Can you tell me the schedule for today?"

[At 8 a.m., there is a meeting in the main conference room of the royal palace. Robert Alpenheimer will visit the military academy for the purpose of establishing a strategy class at 2 p.m., and at 7 p.m. you have a dinner booked with Veronica.]

"I didn't think the meeting was so soon. I have to hurry."

After listening to Goetia who acted as his assistant, Theodore looked at the clock on the wall and started moving.

This was the time when the sun started to rise, but a magician couldn't waste even one minute. It was quite common for a person with this sort of schedule to become a night owl. However, a person with physical strength like Theodore would have their drowsiness flee with the dawn.

He opened the closet that was several times larger than before. It contained different clothing depending on the purpose. There were a range of clothes for a national meeting, a public ceremony, and a conquest.

'…They wouldn't say much even if I dressed as I pleased.'

That's what Blundell had said. There was no one who could stop or control the actions of an 8th circle magician. Just look at Veronica, rules were clearly unnecessary for her. She used to wear party dresses for meetings in the royal palace. However, Theodore was worried about the blood pressure of those present and pulled out the appropriate clothing. The clothing might not be made by a magician, but the fit was better than he thought.

'Veronica doesn't like wearing it, but I think the design is okay.'

It was black fabric with gold decorations, making it obvious to anyone that he was a person with a high status. Theodore groomed the rumpled robe with magic and greeted someone out of habit, "Sir Spencer, are you there?" There was silence for a few seconds before an answer came from his right arm, […I'm not gone yet. This old man is lasting longer than I thought.]

"Haha, please don't think like that. You have great strength."

[Eh, this old man is useless now.]

Theodore grinned at the grumbles of the legendary hero, Reynolds Spencer. After eating Soul Calibre, the hero's soul had stayed in Theodore's right arm and given away all his strength over five years. As such, Theodore confirmed his presence every morning because Spencer could disappear tomorrow or in a few months.

Reynolds said this wasn't necessary.

[I have no regrets because I have found a reliable successor. Don't grieve or mourn for me. There is no need to say goodbye to a soul who died a long time ago.]

"Then is it okay to say thank you?"

[Hmm, you are also very stubborn.]

He could tell that Reynolds was smiling wryly. Theodore smiled and released the security magic. The security magic had no meaning for him since he woke up whenever anything approached, but it was a formal security device that he turned on habitually. Then his senses caught a servant outside the door who politely bowed to him and greeted, "I beg your pardon, Chief Tower Master."

Theodore nodded at the title that he still wasn't accustomed to.

Meanwhile, the servant spoke cautiously, "His Majesty has invited Chief Tower Master to have breakfast with him. If you want, I will guide you to the dining room."

"Please do so."

"Yes! Thank you very much."

The servant turned with stiff motions, and Theodore followed with a bitter smile. When Theodore was a child, he had wanted wealth and honor. Now all of that seemed in vain. He had magic that could break down mountains and change the climate. Why should he cling to money and status?

Theodore Miller, the peak of the tower masters, moved with troubles that no one could understand.

* * *

The Chief Tower Master was the peak of all the magic towers. It was the first time in Meltor's history that the title was used, and Theodore only took the role relatively recently.

Two years ago, the position of head of the central tower became unclear when Benedict retired after the war with Andras. He was an outsider, a free magician who didn't belong to any of the other magic towers. Thanks to this, Benedict had been able to coordinate the balance between towers from an objective standpoint and assume the role of chairman of the Magic Society.

The problem was that after he retired, there was no one left to fill the vacancy. The elder magicians who had participated in past wars were developing their own magic research and experienced intense fatigue. Nobody wanted to bother them. Above all, the qualification to become a tower master was that they had to be a magician of the 7th circle or higher. With the death of Blue Tower Master Blundell, there was only one person who could become master of the central tower.

'It is me.' Theodore sighed as he thought back on the situation. 'Hah, Benedict would've worried a bit more about retiring if I wasn't here.'

Theodore Miller, the youngest magician to reach the 8th circle, was a heroic person who didn't lack any requirements to be the master of a magic tower. Additionally, Red Tower Master Veronica was still alive. So, there was no fear that the red tower would collapse if Theodore was absent. Only a few people knew it, but Veronica was in a subordinate position to him.

From the beginning to the end, it was a position for Theodore.

In any case, the process of his appointment was quick. Veronica naturally agreed and didn't hesitate to vote for him along with the white tower master and yellow tower master. The blue tower master seat was absent and the vote was treated as an abstention, but the majority was still established.

This was the first appearance of the Chief Tower Master position. It was proof that Theodore was the greatest magician of this time. However, his workload had increased. He looked down at the raucous meeting hall and sighed.

"So! We need to do an armed protest in Austen! They don't remember the grace we gave them and are trying to double the price of special products!"

Despite being five years older now, Roberts was still fired up as he criticized Austen's policy.

After the drought that had been caused by Desertio disappeared, the small desert kingdom gradually began to develop. It was due to Theodore's previous favor, but the momentum of a country where religion and power were united was surprising.

Now that they were no longer beggars, they acted in a shameless manner.

"No, an armed protest is too much! Won't it feel like we are taking on the brutal policies of the empire? No matter how shameless Austen is acting, it isn't right to pull out our weapons!"

They yelled at each other in every meeting. Today was no different as Robert's eyes widened with Jerome's words.

"Then what? If you say to soothe them gently again, I will snap!"

"Uhuh! The point of this meeting is to find a way!"

Both of them made sense. Meltor had won the war in the north and acquired many territories and a lot of resources. As such, they had now developed far beyond what they had been five years ago. However, resources hadn't been all they lost in the war. Meltor's population and troops were currently spread out all over the expanded kingdom for relief work, and the atmosphere of the kingdom had barely stabilized. Going to war or an armed protest could disturb it.

At that moment, a magician in a blue robe raised their hand. "I will speak."

"Umm."

"Hrmm."

Simultaneously, both Jerome and Robert stopped speaking. It was because the status of the blue-robed magician was much higher than theirs. King Kurt's gaze shifted. The host of the meeting, Kurt III, opened his mouth and said, "Speak, Blue Tower Master.��

"Yes, Your Majesty."

That's right. The woman had changed greatly over the past five years and was now recognized as a tower master. Her silver hair was like overflowing moonlight, and she had blue eyes which were like a calm lake. A beautiful woman with wisdom and strength rose from her seat, holding the staff that represented the previous tower master.

"…Sylvia."

It was her, Sylvia Adruncus. After Blundell's death, she had devoted herself to magic for three years without taking care of her body.

Theodore had visited her many times, but all he had been able to do was serve tea. Her eyes had been too intense for him to persuade her otherwise. Veronica said they could talk once Sylvia reached her limit.

However, Sylvia was a genius among geniuses. A few years of training passed, and she reached her limit. Then she broke through the wall with her talent and effort. No one could dismiss Sylvia, who reached the 7th circle at a similar age to Theodore and who held the staff that was the remnant of Blundell Adruncus.

Some saw this as a sign of Meltor's unending glory, while others were captivated by her beauty.

'A new… era.'

The vacancies of those who left were filled, and the wheels of history turned. Theodore's gaze deepened for a moment before returning to its original state.

Sylvia wasn't the only one who faced a wall. A tall wall, the 9th circle, blocked Theodore.