ALTANUS [14]

Regressor's Instructions Manual Episode 977

Altanus (14)

I could spout all sorts of nonsense about being a god of sacrifice and resurrection. Of course, I couldn't keep my wings spread indefinitely.

Claiming to be the embodiment of Lucifer, I couldn't even bring myself to say it out loud... And above all, I couldn't predict how exactly he would react.

There was no guarantee that he wouldn't do something crazy like Messenger Gerk did.

It was a moment that felt like a fantasy. But that moment was enough. I just needed to doubt myself a little, to wonder if I had seen something wrong, to feel unsure if what I saw was real.

Even that level of doubt would be enough to shake him.

'Even if he doesn't waver...'

At least the suspicion would disappear.

A wandering priest with special divine power or a saint blessed by a god on the continent.

Whether he was an angel descended from the heavens or a messenger of Lucifer, it didn't matter.

The important thing was to dispel the negative suspicions.

If I was going to doubt, it would be better to lean toward the positive side.

"How do I appear? Templar Bahamut?"

"...."

"Regardless of how Templar Bahamut thinks of me, I'm just an ordinary wandering priest. I serve Lucifer with all my heart, convey Her words, and live as a believer dedicated to Her alone. It's not unreasonable for you to have doubts about my past..."

"...."

"Regardless of my past life, I am now merely a priest devoted to Her."

'This guy still hasn't gotten his act together.'

"Just now..."

"Yes?"

"What just happened...?"

"What are you saying...?"

"...."

"...."

In this way, if I kept spewing vague words, I would become a good priest.

'Kiyoung doesn't know anything. I have no idea what you're talking about, what just happened.'

Eventually...

"No... It's nothing, Priest. And..."

"...."

"I'd like to apologize again for the rudeness earlier."

Yes, this is how I should handle it.

"I accept it."

But the atmosphere is still awkward.

Clearly, it was a situation where the bastard had made a mistake towards me, and above all, the illusion he had just seen would remain his my mind, making it impossible for him to think properly.

The atmosphere had already shifted in my favor. If it was the bastards's turn until just now, then from now on, it's my turn.

"Alright. Let's have a good time from now on."

"What?"

"About the Nezka Kingdom and various other topics."

"Oh."

The original intention was to stick to the plan. I'm not going to just let this big opportunity slip by when it came to me.

There's a lot to talk about: the Nezka Kingdom, the Templars, stories from the church, and more.

Although I initially wanted to meet more people at the church today, the situation took an unexpected turn, so I can't just let this go.

Even from my perspective, Kiyoung is someone who specializes in winning people's favor.

He plays along and adjusts the conversation. It's a simple way to win people's hearts with agreeable stories, but not everyone can do it.

'Such a type.'

I've experienced plenty of open flattery, so perhaps the minor incident that just occurred might have been helpful.

I've essentially created a debt with him.

'Considering I came as a guest, it's not surprising.'

"I see. Did something like that happen?"

"Yes. As you know, the Nezka Kingdom..."

"Ah."

Some light banter and exchange about the kingdom, maybe sharing a glass of wine in between.

Of course, theological discussions shouldn't be omitted.

While he also has a background as a Templar and has studied theology, his level of knowledge is likely comparable to mine, who was once a distinguished ecclesiastical figure dedicated to theology.

Lucifer's doctrine was already in my mind, and the teachings of a renowned theologian were stored within my thoughts as well.

Adding personal interpretations within the confines of doctrine, and if something seems lacking, I'll hedge with ambiguous statements to avoid overexposing my hand.

"Everything is the will of Lucifer. The land is green, and the river is not dark, isn't it?"

I can't even make sense of what he's saying. I don't even know why the river would be dark if the land is green.

Although it's initially an unconvincing argument, after hours of discussing in-depth scriptures, one can't help but consider alternative interpretations.

In his mind, Priest Lee Kiyoung is the type who is often referred to as knowledgeable.

"For issues like this, I believe we should be addressed with joy, composure, and reverence."

"I apologize, Priest... Could you please explain a bit more clearly... How should I handle this?"

"Providing an elaborate explanation itself wouldn't be respectful. Templar Bahamut. I do regard this as a problem, but..."

"...."

In his position, there's nothing but a headache.

"I'm embarrassed. I also believed I was truly devoted to Lucifer, but..."

"It's just a different approach. When I read books and pray, doesn't that make me Lucifer's sword as well?"

Of course, I can't be too lenient. I also need to nudge him in the right direction.

As always, by this point, anyone would feel something.

'He's actually quite good at engaging in conversation than I thought.'

It's fine to think of it this way. From here on, we're building rapport.

We continue our conversation on the balcony, then step inside the church, naturally transitioning as we talk about various things.

Including Templar Simon and the ruffians invited to the church, who join the conversation, but like always, it eventually ends with only him and me, just like the last of those who remain after a drinking party.

Taking a brief excuse to step away, we engage in meaningful conversation once again. It's a natural sequence of events, and with his presence, someone who communicates well, his speech tends to lengthen, and a sense of friendliness appears on his face.

Whether it's due to the effect of my wings, I can't be sure, but it's undeniable that the light-like demeanor of Lee Kiyoung has influenced him.

When we've distanced ourselves somewhat from the church, I speak again.

The timing is just right. As we walked, we suddenly found ourselves in a space that looks like a training ground, and it's the perfect time to reveal the human side of Priest Lee Kiyoung, a representative of Lucifer.

"I actually learned swordsmanship from a knight in the past."

"...."

"You have an expression that says you don't believe me."

"I apologize. I just couldn't imagine..."

"It was during my childhood. Everyone fantasizes about being a knight or a mercenary in their youth. It was before I understood the will of Lucifer... before I realized my destiny... but like everyone else, I also imagined defeating monsters and beasts. It's like how little kids want to become heroes."

It's not something I say to just anyone. I only had a glass of wine to match the mood, but the concept is that it's slightly intoxicating.

So, we end up talking more, delving into stories from the past. Of course, it could also be because I'm more receptive, so my words may have become more verbose.

"I learned from a knight residing in the small city... Although it might seem laughable to Templar Bahamut, at the time, I was quite earnest."

'That expression on his face says he want to see me.'

He wanted to express that, but he's concerned about becoming impolite, but his expression is saying that he want to see me. It's best to provide a reason for my presence.

"Currently, I'm only at a level where I'm familiarizing myself with the basics... But when living as a wandering priest, one can get involved in more dangerous situations than anticipated..."

"I see. If it's not too much of an imposition, may I take a look? As for the apology from earlier..."

"I already accepted the apology, didn't I? Templar Bahamut."

"Still, it's a good opportunity... so, please allow me a brief moment."

"...."

"Still, it's a good opportunity... Please let me take a brief look."

Awkwardly, I raised the sword a bit.

'I'd like to showcase the murderous swordsmanship I learned from Hyunsung...

Though I can't leak our information, I did learn some swordsmanship from Raphael, so it should be alright to display his techniques.

This event was meant to show a somewhat human side, a gathering for the guy who was drawn to me throughout our conversation.

'It was a step towards maintaining an unbiased, equal friendship.'

"Hoo..."

Demonstrating basic sword skills quite seriously was only natural. He was also observing the sword techniques quite seriously.

The sword was slightly heavier than I expected, causing my arm to waver a bit, but it didn't deviate from the trajectory. The swordplay continued for about 30 minutes.

Finally, when I lowered the sword, he nodded quietly.

"You've learned a good sword."

'Really?'

"Your basic stamina might be a bit lacking..."

His expression shows that he doesn't know what to say, and his inability to provide a comment made me look pitiful.

"It's obvious, but when wielding a sword, put more force into it."

He even demonstrated for me.

Although it seems like he swung it lightly, a whooshing sound still reached my ears.

"The type of swordsmanship that requires a firm grip on the center might not suit you. It might seem like swordsmanship that relies too much on excessive techniques or personal magical power, but it's actually a simpler form of swordsmanship..."

'He's really talking now. This guy's full of himself.'

Seems like he's trying to make up for his silence during the theological debate time, actively participating.

"Allow me to demonstrate."

"Yes. Please."

"I need you to put a bit more strength into your lower body. Move your arm this way... Yes, you're doing well."

"...."

'Damn, this is tough.'

"...."

With those massive arms moving my body back and forth, it felt like I was a doll.

Of course, we couldn't spend too much time. It was already getting quite late.

He seemed satisfied, and I felt somewhat satisfied as well. It was a reasonable amount of time, and I felt a bit more comfortable after leaving the training ground.

Now it's time for us to part. Before we meet again, I should say a few more words.

"I can't see the sky from here."

"Yes."

"In the Nezka Kingdom, I always used to look up at the sky after finishing my tasks. The sight of stars scattered across the black sky felt like it could wash away the exhaustion of the day. It became a habit, and I would unconsciously look up at the sky."

"Since coming here..."

"Yes. I haven't seen the same sky, but today, the black ceiling looks similar to what I used to see."

He must be wondering what I'm talking about.

"...."

"It's been so long since I've talked with someone for such a long time... Thank you for spending time with me today, Templar Bahamut."

"I'm the one who should be thankful, Priest."

I immediately took my leave.

I had to decline Templar Bahamut's offer to guide me to my lodging.

Just as I thought, Templar Jenny, who had been watching this way, seemed to have a pale expression, though the vibrant expressions he always showed weren't present.

Perhaps it was because he saw my complexion grow paler.

"Priest...?"

After speaking those words, he was observing my condition.

Dractarrius, who had waited anxiously, did the same.

Only then did they seem relieved and let out a heavy sigh.

I swallow back tears, adjusting my breath. I tried to hold back, but tears continue to drop.

"What's going on, Priest Lee Kiyoung... What in the world..."

Templar Jenny is watching as well, right?

I believe he'll give me a good scolding later.

About one arm's length worth from Templar Seniors.

"He is... *sigh*... *sigh*... He is..."

It was a time for scolding.

----

I'm feeling quite guilty because I've still not received permission to translate this book yet I'm still translating... And my petty of an excuse is that a lot of Mtl's out there are not offiicial translations, yes, even the ones we've finished reading from 1-877 are not official. The official translation is at chapter 500+ currently.