Chapter 134: Awaiting the Return: The Perils of the Former God Realm

It's been over a month since Kurogami Masayuki left the Academy of the Gods to journey to the World of the Former Gods. His absence was deeply felt in the room. Snow Sky-Dog no longer received the teasing remarks from Kurogami Masayuki, which left him feeling sad rather than relieved. Kurogami Masayuki had embarked on an extremely dangerous mission, and it was hard to predict if he would return safely to Snow Sky-Dog and Mizuchi Haruka. Even if he managed to survive and bring back the Cursed Spear to the Academy, it was uncertain whether he would come back unscathed. The magical prowess, ferocity, and eccentricity of the Former Gods were undeniable truths that even the Ancient Gods or New Gods wouldn't waste time debating. It was a well-known fact that the Former Gods possessed terrifying magical powers, making it difficult for anyone to gauge their strength accurately. They were also fiercely aggressive and bizarre. Comparing the strength of a New God to an Ancient God was like comparing a dog to a wolf. However, when an Ancient God stood before a Former God, it was akin to a wolf facing a tiger. The only reason the Former Gods lost in the first era's war against the coalition of Ancient Gods, New Gods, Youkai, and Demons was that the coalition was too vast, and they wielded the most powerful magical artifacts, which have since been lost or weakened. After that brutal war, the Former Gods retreated to a forgotten world, harboring an undiminished hatred for everyone else. What fate awaited Kurogami Masayuki, a New God, as he ventured alone into a world filled with dangers that could obliterate him? He set off to retrieve the Cursed Spear from the gods who guarded it. They would not relinquish it easily, likely presenting complex and perilous challenges.

Snow Sky-Dog was troubled and confused by these dark thoughts. To ease his mind, he considered either going on a date with one of his four lovely companions—Goddess of Spring and Flowers Mizuchi Haruka, Goddess of Luck Aika Takara, Goddess of Secrets Amaterasu Yumi, or Seraphina Frostwind from the Human World—or mimicking Kurogami Masayuki by seeking solace in alcohol. Just then, Mizuchi Haruka entered their shared room with a large sponge cake.

"Snow Sky-Dog, I know you're upset about our brother's absence over the past month. You're probably very worried about his safety against those formidable dangers. I feel the same, but deep within me is a small yet fierce hope. I believe Kurogami Masayuki will return safely and complete his mission! We must trust in the brighter side of his journey to the World of the Former Gods. He's not a New God who will easily be defeated, even by the ferocious Former Gods. We must believe in his return and not wear mournful faces as if his funeral is imminent!"

The aroma of the sponge cake wafted into Snow Sky-Dog's nose, adding weight to Mizuchi Haruka's optimistic words. This filled him with admiration for her positivity, mingled with a sense of shame for his doubts. (A proud warrior like him might struggle to accept that, in some aspects of spiritual strength and lifestyle, he might not measure up to a girl like Mizuchi Haruka.)

Snow Sky-Dog forced a smile, his eyes shining with empathy as he listened to Haruka's hopeful words. The turmoil in his heart, from worry for his brother to shame for his lack of faith, gradually faded, replaced by a strong belief in the future. He stepped closer to Mizuchi Haruka, feeling the warmth from her and the sweet scent of the cake.

"Thank you, Haruka," Snow Sky-Dog said gratefully. "You always know how to calm my worries. You're right; we must trust in Kurogami Masayuki's strength and wisdom. He won't be easily defeated, and we will wait for his return together."

Mizuchi Haruka smiled, her eyes gleaming with hope.

"Yes, Snow Sky-Dog! We will get through these days together and await his return. Let's cut this cake and enjoy the moment, for that's also how we keep our spirits high."

In the dim light of the evening, they shared the cake, savoring its sweetness as they shared their faith and hope for the future. Outside, the wind whispered through the trees, carrying a promise of brighter days ahead.

That night, as darkness enveloped the room, Snow Sky-Dog lay down feeling more at peace. He closed his eyes, imagining the adventures and trials Kurogami Masayuki was facing. The image of his brother bravely fighting in the World of the Former Gods burned brightly in his mind, like a guiding flame.

"Tomorrow, I will be stronger, ready to face any challenge," Snow Sky-Dog whispered in the dark. "Because I know Kurogami Masayuki is fighting for us, for our world."

Mizuchi Haruka lay on the bed next to Snow Sky-Dog, already asleep but with a smile lingering on her lips. In their dreams, they envisioned Kurogami Masayuki's triumphant return with the Cursed Spear, bringing hope to all. They knew the journey was long, but their faith and love would be the strength to overcome every obstacle.

Outside, the night sky stretched endlessly, stars twinkling like whispers of miracles yet to come. A new dawn would bring new opportunities, challenges, and glorious victories for the young gods. Their journey had only just begun, and with each step, they would grow stronger, more determined, and ready to face any danger to protect their world and those they loved.