Chapter 7: Divine and Mortal Affairs
“You defeated the Lord of Nightmares?” Givia asked, her eyes wide with disbelief. “But… he’s a god! How did you harm him? I don’t know much about Outer Gods, but surely a mortal can’t simply destroy a god’s artifacts?”
“Indeed, they can’t,” Abyss agreed. “His three artifacts are indestructible. Even the combined strength of all mortals couldn’t scratch them.”
“So… you’re not human?” Givia asked, even more surprised.
“Hmm?” Abyss, confused, turned to his followers. “Am I human?”
“Mostly. But you don’t always act like one,” Leona replied, nodding sagely.
“Oh,” Abyss said, turning back to Givia. “I might be human.”
Givia, thoroughly bewildered by his nonsensical response, looked at Flora, who chuckled and explained, “Givia, Abyss is human, a mortal. But we’ve acquired methods for using divine power. That’s how he destroyed the Lord of Nightmares’ artifacts. He channeled the power of other gods into them, creating a conflict of divine energies that shattered the artifacts. He didn’t rely solely on his own power. He used divine power as a tool.”
Givia, understanding dawning on her face, nodded, then her expression turned to concern. “Surely the Lord of Nightmares didn’t just let him destroy his artifacts? Didn’t he resist?”
“He did,” Abyss said, smiling. “And that’s why I’m here. The room you assigned me is completely destroyed. Don’t be alarmed when you see it. I had Flora protect the building’s structure, so only the furniture and the floor were damaged. I apologize for the inconvenience.”
“That’s not a problem!” Givia said quickly, waving her hand dismissively. “We can easily replace the furniture. Are you injured?”
“The Lord of Nightmares’ influence in this world is weak now. His resistance was futile. I’m unharmed,” Abyss said, shaking his head. “He’s no longer a threat. Outer Gods are simply deities from other worlds, corrupted after their worlds were destroyed. The Lord of Nightmares, the fear-devouring entity, is gone, only his weakened true form remaining. He won’t bother you anymore. I don’t remember the details, but you’re rebuilding your kingdom, right? You can focus on your duties now, without worrying about him.”
Givia relaxed, her tense shoulders slumping slightly. After a moment of silence, she said, “It’s finally over… After all these years…”
“Congratulations, Givia. Your hard work and your sacrifices have paid off,” Flora said, her voice warm and gentle, a smile on her face.
“Congratulations, Givia. I always wanted to protect a princess as a knight. You’ve made my dream come true,” Leona said, her voice playful.
Givia nodded, tears welling up in her eyes, a mixture of joy and relief. Her years of struggle and hardship hadn’t been in vain. She had finally found hope. After a long pause, she stood up, performing a perfect warrior’s salute. “Thank you for your selfless assistance.”
“Our fates became intertwined when your Royal Guard sought my pendant,” Flora said, taking Givia’s hand, her affection for this strong and resilient woman evident. “We helped you because we believe in you, in your ability to lead the Ossi people to a brighter future.”
Flora, a former Saint, was a gifted speaker, her words, filled with sincerity, deeply moving Givia, who nodded repeatedly, tears streaming down her face.
“Now, you must lead your people forward. We’re not equipped for such tasks—our only royalty, Leona, is a spoiled princess with little interest in politics,” Abyss said. “We don’t know how to rule a kingdom. You no longer require our assistance. It’s time for us to say goodbye and continue our quest against the Outer Gods who threaten our world.”
“You’re leaving?” Givia asked, surprised.
“Yes, Givia,” Rebecca said, nodding. “All good things must come to an end. It’s time for us to continue our journey.”
“But Abyss, you haven’t recovered your memories yet,” Givia said, her voice filled with concern. “You can stay here and rest until you remember everything. It shouldn’t take long…”
“There are others who need our help, Givia,” Flora explained. “And we have our own unfinished business.”
“But you’re leaving before I can properly repay your kindness. This is unacceptable,” Givia said, sighing. “You should at least enjoy the comforts of the palace, allow me to show my gratitude.”
“We helped you because you deserved it. Repayment isn’t necessary,” Leona said, standing up, her voice serious. “Although I do enjoy luxury and fine dining, there are things more important than personal comfort! This knight must now assist those in need. Do not grieve, my dear Givia!” She tried to affect a dramatic, chivalrous tone, but it sounded slightly comical.
Givia, amused by her antics, chuckled. “I understand. This is who you are.”
“We’ll be leaving soon. If there’s anything else we can do for you, tell us now,” Abyss said.
“There’s nothing more I require. I can handle any mortal affairs,” Givia said, shaking her head. “But I won’t let you leave empty-handed. Come with me to the royal treasury. It’s my property now. Take anything you desire.”
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