105 – 46. The Beginning of Disaster (1)
Kwoong!
As the deity fell, the ground began to shake.
Lucifer looked at the lifeless Azidahaka lying on the unstable and powerless ground with a sneer.
“If you had quietly surrendered your life, this wouldn’t have happened…. It’s because you resisted that it turned out like this.”
“Prideful one…. Did you think you could rule the world just by doing that? How foolish.”
“You’ve kept silent all this time, but when it’s time to die, you mock so well, Azidahaka.”
“Ha. Is the seat of glory that tempting? Let me warn you. The end of your ambition will only be destruction!”
Unable to contain his anger, Azidahaka glared at Lucifer, but…
He, who had obtained power, paid no attention to what he heard.
“The foreign press warns me about the hidden subjects they fear.”
Lucifer, the fallen angel, did not like it.
Not only did he dislike being afraid of the beings called Outer Gods.
The biggest problem was that he had made Astalgia come to this point.
“It’s possible to fear unknown beings. I can even understand joining hands with Eris, who stands in opposition to us, and supporting Gaia…. But why should we live in the underworld?”
The land of the demon realm. Isolating Astalgia was not enough; it made enemies of the intermediate realm and the celestial realm.
From Lucifer’s perspective, that was the biggest complaint.
“I didn’t want to be treated that way. I never asked for it. There was only one thing we wanted.”
The humans living in the intermediate realm considered the land of the demons to be ominous and constantly tried to attack.
The demons had no choice but to take the hits without resisting.
Counterattack? They couldn’t even dream of it. If they tried, the celestial beings would immediately swoop down on them.
To be marked as everyone’s enemy without having done anything. How unfair is that?
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“What we wanted was a life where we didn’t receive anyone’s interference, not a life like a worthless scavenger that only gets beaten!”
They wanted a life where they received treatment for their sacrifices.
Both the gods and the goddesses were exerting their strength to support Gaia. How can those humans, who live off their protection, insult and consider themselves ominous?
“Oh gods. If you had even tried to stop those humans who carry the celestial beings on their shoulders and rampage around…”
If you had even tried to stop those humans who carry the celestial beings on their shoulders and rampage around…
“Astalgia would not have come to this.”
Losing comrades is one thing, but it shouldn’t have turned into a land of death with bodies scattered everywhere.
“…So, were you aiming for the seat of the Magician? To erase the hatred deeply embedded in the hearts of humans towards the demons?”
“Even if you come here and try to change that kind of hatred, what difference does it make? It’s already too late. If you want to change it… you have to start from the very beginning, tearing it apart.”
It was a situation too late to correct. After being thoroughly beaten and becoming covered in scars, now coming to discuss coexistence seemed impossible.
It was a problem from the beginning. If Azidahaka hadn’t declared the underworld in the negotiations that started with Eris to protect Gaia, such a thing wouldn’t have happened.
‘In that case…’
Resetting and correcting this world would be the right thing to do.
‘Eliminate all those who pose a threat to this land. Start anew.’
Starting with the humans who, like rampaging vermin, knew nothing about the subject and even the Heavenly Tribe, who despite knowing their efforts, just stood by and watched, if they were to be swept away too.
“Only then will the world I envisioned open up.”
“Do you really think that plan will succeed…? Pathetic. The word ‘arrogance’ suits you well. Go ahead and try. What awaits you is nothing but a path of rebellion ending in failure and destruction.”
“Rebellion, huh? In the eyes of a failure like you, it may seem so. But wouldn’t the word ‘revolution’ be more fitting?”
Lucifer raised the corners of his mouth as if immersed in madness.
At that moment, Azidahaka felt that there was no need for further conversation.
‘Preparations have been made… Is this finally the end?’
It was unfortunate. He had known for a while that his time was running out.
Creating allies to protect the hero was also because of that.
Now all Azidahaka could do was hope for the fruition of the efforts he had poured in.
Having done everything possible, he could only wait now.
Sensing the end, Azidahaka calmly closed his eyes, and Lucifer stared blankly at the scene.
“It’s over.”
It was the pitiful end of the being that had supported Gaia with Eris.
Although she had taken the coveted position of a Magician, Lucifer’s expression remained unyielding.
“Just because you captured the Magician doesn’t mean it’s the end… Warrior. And if you can’t eliminate Eris, the revolution will turn into a failure.”
In her heart, she wanted to immediately unveil the veil hiding Gaia. However, she decided to endure.
In the current situation where the internal enemies were not completely eliminated, it would be unwise to bring in external enemies, wouldn’t it?
Unless there were those ready to stand on her side like Satan. Considering that Lucifer had been swept away by Ian’s hands, she needed to choose a safe route now.
“Eris probably confirmed the destruction of Azidahaka. In that case, she will issue the decree right away.”
As the only weapon that could not intervene in the intermediate realm, the Warrior Party, Eris might be considered.
Those who were ready to devote themselves to Lucifer like Satan. Now, having made up her mind…
There is no need to hesitate.
Lucifer clenched her fist tightly and looked at the intermediate realm.
***
Having completed her recovery, Hailey immediately headed to Volcano.
It wasn’t because she wanted to convey the apology she had postponed upon meeting Ian.
Her desire was like a chimney, but the reason for coming this time was completely different.
“You… You can’t teach me swordsmanship anymore?”
“Sorry… Ariel.”
“If you suddenly say that. Then what about the position of Arc’s instructor?”
“That’s not it. Even if I can’t personally teach you swordsmanship as I do now, I can still assist you as an instructor.”
Ariel was quite surprised at the mention of giving up the position of a master.
How should she take this statement that he would quit now that he’s here? At first, she thought it might be due to severe trauma from the recent incident.
But listening to Hailey’s words, it seemed not.
“It’s perplexing, but I can’t just throw a tantrum and refuse…,” Ariel thought as she listened.
Hailey Millers, the person she had known so far, wasn’t someone who would suddenly step down from a position.
Therefore, Ariel cautiously met her gaze.
“Could you perhaps explain why you’re resigning?”
“The reason for resigning…”
Hailey’s eyes trembled at Ariel’s question.
Upon closer inspection, there could be various reasons.
Perhaps she couldn’t elevate her disciple’s skills immediately as a master.
But the biggest reason Hailey decided to give up the position of a master was that she felt inadequate.
“I’m not someone qualified to teach others.”
Through this recent attack, she confirmed her doubts about her own qualifications.
No matter how much she thought about it, she wasn’t someone suitable to teach swordsmanship to others.
Of course, it was hard for Ariel to comprehend.
“What on earth are you talking about…?” Ariel tilted her head as if to say, ‘What nonsense is this?’
It was natural for her not to understand.
He too wondered who my master was. Is he not the one known as the Sword Saint in the world?
Having gained great fame in swordsmanship and soon to be evaluated as someone capable of surpassing the master’s position, does he not have the qualification to teach?
Then who on earth can claim to be a master?
“Master….”
Ariel couldn’t continue her words, bewildered. Haili, as if saying she lacked dignity, just lowered her head.
“I’m sorry, Ariel.”
…
It hasn’t even been a year since she took on the role of a master, and suddenly she wants to give up. How resentful would that be?
At a time like this, when someone who knows how crucial the current situation is, without proper justification, mutters something like ‘I’m inadequate,’ it wouldn’t be strange to get angry.
‘Maybe she’s just thinking of turning the conversation around because she can’t really explain the true reason.’
However, that wasn’t the truth.
She really felt her own inadequacy and gave up the position of a master.
‘…Since witnessing Ian’s swordsmanship, I just couldn’t muster the courage to wield a sword.’
Suddenly, she recalled the backs of Ian and Celia facing Satan while facing him alone.
Though in a state of exhaustion, carried on Evan’s back, she knew that Satan was an extraordinary opponent.
She was convinced that those who didn’t know this fact would be in danger.
The reason she followed the path they had taken so arduously was also because of that.
As an instructor, there was a need to prioritize the safety of the beginners, and above all, what Kaien had left behind had become a catalyst.
‘Even if I die, apologize to Ian,’ is what he said.
Embarrassingly, she hadn’t been able to say a single word of apology to Ian.
She knows that, having resolved the seal of swordsmanship on her own, she can be of no help to Ian.
Even if Ian spews harsh words, telling her not to be noticeable again, Hailey can’t do anything about it.
‘I’ve been afraid to hear such words and couldn’t bring myself to come.’
While cleaning up the chaotic classroom together, she felt that their relationship had already crumbled and thought it was beyond repair.
Maybe that’s why she unconsciously postponed the apology.
But at least now, she didn’t think that way. Even if she runs away, she has decided to apologize to Ian.
As Kyan said, even if it’s a broken relationship, you can pick up the pieces and mend it.
‘I won’t ask for forgiveness when I apologize. Just… I have only one thing I want.’
If he tells her to leave, she was confident she wouldn’t be visible again. If he asks her to give up the sword, she might even curse herself. She was even prepared to cut off one arm.
Sorry. That’s the only thing she wanted to say.
With those thoughts, Hailey moved her tired body and headed towards where Satan was.
The moment she arrived, she could see it.
‘That figure, reaching the extreme of swordsmanship I was looking for…’
His appearance giving his all against the demon king.
The giant with a thousand hands growing from his back exuded an overwhelming presence, as if it could be considered a mythical existence.
When the swords held in each of those hands descended like rain, her fists involuntarily clenched.
A person who once received his teachings had surpassed his master and risen to the level of a god, aiming to overthrow the demon king.
Looking at that, Hailey felt awe but couldn’t lift her head due to shame.
‘Even though I couldn’t use a sword because of the curse, I’ve grown like that… What on earth was I doing?’
She was lazy and satisfied with the present.
Those who spew pleasing words, claiming to have the master right in front of them, were determined to go their own way despite the surroundings they found themselves unwittingly caught up in.
Meanwhile, the disciple who caused a stir had somehow surpassed themselves and reached the master. There was only one thing that could mean.
“A person like me doesn’t have the qualification to become someone’s teacher… How can I teach someone when I can’t even take care of myself?”
Not having the qualification to teach someone.
Realizing their own situation, they had accepted it.
“I have given up on the position of a teacher. I will never have the chance to see Ian again.”
They thought they had resolved it, yet tears slowly streamed down.
But there was nothing they could do. After doing something like that, they had no right to wish for happiness.
Thinking like that, they took heavy steps forward.
“If you want, I can bring the items to the young lady.”
“No, I’ll do it. I’m already behind on work as it is. You can go. I’ll take care of the rest.”
“Uh…”
When Ian’s voice came from behind, Hailey’s face stiffened.
Judging by the volume of the voice, the work area was close enough that she could see it just by turning her head.
Moreover, red hair was rare, so she would recognize it immediately.
In that moment, Hailey was taken aback. But at the same time, she thought it might be a perfect opportunity.
“If I call out from here…”
Ian would turn his head, and the long-awaited chance for an apology would naturally present itself.
Since she thought they would never meet again, it was the only chance for her to bring out the apology she had kept in her heart.
“I… I have to say it…”
Ian. She turned her body at the thought that she only needed to call that name once.
Yet, the two syllables never escaped Haley’s lips.
‘I… Ian….’
Once again, the overwhelming feeling of fear sealed her lips. When she regained her senses, Ian was already gone.
***
“Oppa, how does it look on me?”
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“Uh, it suits you.”
Watching his sister awkwardly smile, wearing a robe over her heavy armor, he couldn’t figure out what to say.
There’s nothing to say about whether it suits her or not.
‘Wearing a huge armor made only based on defense makes her face look small…’
Critiquing a design that was never considered in the first place was not an easy task.
‘I was originally planning to just throw it to her and let her figure out how to wear it on her own… How did it end up like this?’
Even thinking about it himself, it was unbelievable.
Initially, Ian had planned to leave items in the room without meeting Ariel.
‘I thought she would be practicing swordsmanship, and there would be no one in the room… Who could have known things would turn out this way.’
But everything fell apart the moment he made eye contact with his sister sitting on the bed.
‘Haley said Ariel resigned from the position of Ariel’s mentor and didn’t know what to do, so she stayed in the room.’
With the unexpected turn of events, he couldn’t just take back the items he had prepared.
Since he had gone through the trouble of getting the items, Ian decided to just hand them over in front of Ariel.
‘I was worried she might be disappointed. Still, she seemed to like it, so it’s not too bad.’
With armor that made the ground tremble every time she set it down, and a robe that didn’t match at all, Ariel had a ring brimming with vitality.
These items were far from the designs she usually used.
However, Ariel soon smiled without hesitation.
“T-Thank you… I’ll make good use of them….”
It could have been because she was moved that items were taken out from her family’s treasure, or maybe because she didn’t like them but couldn’t ask for something else. She might have said those words for those reasons.
But whether Ariel liked the items or not, Ian had no intention of taking them back.
“These are equipment that she must wear in the upcoming battles, so she can’t refuse. If not, I would have forced her to wear them and go. Well, she seemed satisfied, so I was going to go back anyway.”
He thought he had given her everything she needed to know. With that in mind, Ian turned his body towards the door.
“Oh, oppa… I have a favor to ask. Can you teach me swordsmanship?”
He couldn’t possibly refuse Ariel’s cautious request.
That was the reason.
“I’m glad they suit you….”
He was looking at his younger sister, who was wearing armor in the practice field.
How could he say no when she asked him to make sure the items he gave her fit well?
Of course, Ariel and Ian had an uncomfortable relationship. But it wasn’t a relationship where he couldn’t grant a small favor.
“And I can’t just sit back and watch when Hailey gave up the position of swordsmanship instructor.”
Ariel is the protagonist of this world, who must survive until the end.
He had done so much to keep her alive. Filling in as the temporary instructor was not a big deal.
“Well then, shall we begin now?”
“Yeah.”
Timid inquiry accompanied the moment when Ariel, who had fixed Elysion with a hesitant question, prepared for a charge.
Crack!
“Huh?”
“…What’s going on?”
The moment Ariel rushed forward, driving into the ground, emitting a faint sigh, froze.
Did something go wrong with the newly worn items?
In a situation of speculation, Ian looked at Ariel. However, she only stared at the Holy Sword with an expression of disbelief.
“T-That’s, brother.”
“Why is that? Is there a problem?”
“The Holy Sword… has given a revelation.”
“What?”
“Elysion just spoke to me. Danger is approaching…”
Danger is approaching? What on earth is that supposed to mean?
Did she fall into danger?
‘If that’s the case, the status window would have been buzzing with activity, right?’
As much as the threat to Ariel, the status window, which keenly detected and issued warnings, should not remain silent.
With such thoughts, Ian checked the status window.
[The owner of the Abyss has begun to shatter the world.]
‘Lucifer… has started to move.’
At the same time, he frowned while looking at the text that had just appeared.