The forgotten truth

"Listen, Hitoshi," the old man spoke, his voice carrying the weight of forgotten truths. "You do know that there are five gods who rule this world."

Lyra, Goddess of Life – The Eternal Light

Dusk, God of Death – The Silent Watcher

Thalios, God of the Sea – The Tidal King

Solrion, God of the Sun – The Radiant Flame

Chronis, God of Time – The Silent Foreteller

"But a long time ago, there existed a sixth god." His gaze darkened. "He was the greatest among them all."

Auronis, God of Justice – The Sword of Judgment

"His justice did not waver. It did not see wealth, status, race, or even divinity. His judgment fell upon all—human, demon, and god alike. And because of this, the other gods feared him. Together, they forged an alliance to destroy him."

I clenched my fists as his words sank in.

"But just before his death," Mushashi continued, "Auronis cursed himself. He vowed to be reborn again and again, until he had slain the five gods who betrayed him. To ensure his return, he divided his power into five relics, each safeguarded by the gods themselves. Without them, he would never regain his full strength, nor would he have the power to stand against the most powerful of them all—Lyra, the Goddess of Life."

My breath hitched.

"The gods remain in deep slumber," Mushashi said. "They will not awaken—unless someone dares to take a relic. And you, Hitoshi… you are a fragment of Auronis. That mark on your forehead is the proof of his rebirth."

I took a step back, my mind reeling.

"You lost control of your power," he went on. "You went berserk. You tried to kill Shen. My death… it wasn't your fault. It was a necessary step for you to grow."

I shook my head violently. "No… I—"

"This is the truth," he said gently. "I was born with you, carrying my memories intact, but unable to reveal anything until now. That is my curse. My purpose. To guide you until the day you reclaim your authority as the strongest god."

I gritted my teeth. "But what is the point of this power if I can't even save you, old man?"

A sad smile crossed his face. "Don't be sad. I have lived a good life at your side, and I will continue to watch over you. You are not alone. But you must grow stronger. You must take back what was stolen from you. Only then will we both be free of this curse."

His form flickered, his body beginning to fade.

"Old man, something's wrong with you!" I panicked. "Why—what's happening?"

Mushashi exhaled softly. "It seems my time is up, Hitoshi."

"No! I don't want this!"

He reached out, resting a fading hand on my shoulder. His voice was warm, steady. "My child… you are brave. I know you will do great things. I only wish… I had more time with you. But fate has decided otherwise."

Tears blurred my vision.

"Hitoshi," he whispered. "We will meet again—when the curse is broken. I will wait for you, my ch—"

He was gone.

I fell to my knees, my chest heaving with grief. Then, I clenched my fists and wiped my tears away.

"I will kill the gods and come back to you," I swore, my voice filled with raw determination. "I will get our revenge. I promise, Grandpa."