Ascension Rebirth - Conviction

CHAPTER XXV

PART ONE

As I open my eyes I find myself in a familiar, nauseating, white void. I try to push up my non-existent glasses as a sign of my dissatisfaction of the situation.

Oh, and look who it is. Standing before is a man dressed elegantly in a black business suit. His hair combed over neatly and slick, thin metallic framed glasses sitting gently on the bridge of his nose.

I think I'm going to hurl.

It makes me sick just looking at him; I cringe every time from the pompous displays of self-grandeur. I almost can't believe myself that I've been walking around looking all smug like that in my previous life. I'd like to extend a formal apology to everyone who was offended back then, I was naïve back then.

"Why are you here? Didn't you say that you were going to disappear?"

If I'm recalling correctly, he said that he would only reappear if I ever lose sight of myself. Now I don't know about you but I happen to be of the opinion that I've been rather mellow lately. I've calmed down considerably.

Not a single suicidal thought in 2 days.

So what's his excuse for being here?

Why was I even surprised? This man is a chronic liar after all.

He scoffs at me arrogantly as he pushes up his existent glasses.

"No reason really. Did you think that you could get rid of me that easily? I'm you after all, there's no way you could get rid of yourself, now is there?"

While he does have a point, I can't help but think that it's all just semantics when it comes specifically out of his mouth. So he wants to be like that, huh? Well two can play the logic game.

I accept your challenge.

"Contrary. There are many ways one can get rid of themself, for example, changing how you look and act. Evolving your world views and opinions of other people. By changing you no longer become the same person, but an evolved individual, Q.E.D. I would have successfully rid myself of myself."

"Semantics. You are still yourself even if you change who you are. When you change or evolve it does not mean that you leave behind the past. You will forever carry the consequences of your actions, thus meaning that it is impossible to get rid of yourself."

"Inaccurate. By changing who you were, you are actively denying your own past views. If that is the case then it is safe to assume that your previous ideas no longer exist because there is no one who hold them. What relevance are there to ideas that no one agrees with?"

"Untrue. Opposing and evolutionary views exist only because of past views. They are the stepping stone to a larger idea, they do not exist in a vacuum. Opposition or evolution to a view needs to exist as a motivation factor for currently existing views, thus are given relevance."

This bastard, I really want to punch his face, but due to the height difference it's a little difficult to do so.

Regardless, any further discussion will just give me a headache. That's the last thing I need from the already pre-existing torment I get from just being in his presence.

"So? Why are you here?"

"You've made a choice."

"Choice? What are you talking about."

"To fight. To protect what you believe to be precious to you, but I'm sure you've already noticed a discrepancy in the history of this world."

"[Ragnarok], huh. It could just simply be a different interpretation."

"Unlikely, most of the fantastical elements, at least in the most basic format, have been in line with our prejudices based on popular culture of Earth. [Gladsheim] was indeed simply a location, even the elves who are different were in fact once the similar mystical race it was according to earth's rendition."

"Perhaps. However it only complicates the issue even more. Why would Nodens want [Ragnarok] to take place then? If we go by our world's definition that it's an event made solely for the purpose of killing gods then it makes no sense for him to wish Ragnarok take place. The original meaning [Twilight of the Gods] should not be lost on him if he knew the true purpose of [Ragnarok]."

"However it's undeniable that other aspects of it are in line with Earth's renditions. It does mention that new gods are created afterwards to take the place of old gods, if we broaden the definition of 'gods' then we have the likes of [Ciocal], [Soumee] and [Partholon] who would fit as the neo-gods."

"In case you've forgotten, 'correlation does not imply causation'."

"I haven't forgotten but an event that correlates with pre-established canon does seem more likely to be true, does it not?"

"By what you're saying, it almost makes it seem like Nodens either doesn't know about the true meaning of [Ragnarok] or he simply doesn't care."

"Lorelei said that the previous [Ragnaroks] were barely prevented by the efforts of heroes, but what if the reverse is true?"

"The possibility that everyone else is wrong and what Nodens is doing is actually preventing [Ragnarok]?"

"It would give greater logic to his actions thus far."

"Hmm, in previous cycles Nodens had already created mass destruction in the world. From a bystander's perspective that alone could be constituted as the [end of days]. Actually what is [Ragnarok]? Since it had been prevented each time it has never actually taken form. In the first place, is it even real?"

"Nodens and the others seem to believe it is, sometimes belief in something to be true is much more frightening than having it actually to be true. Nodens is acting on the assumption it's real and regardless of whether it is or not, he is still harvesting divine energy, he will still open a gate between this world and the moon and he will still invade. Those conditions are all true, you must have that in mind when planning your next steps. Particularly the one you're currently thinking of."

"…"

"You're planning to find some way to attain [Ascension] aren't you? To exceed your station and enter the realm of gods; do you think you can do it?"

"It isn't matter of whether I can do it or not, it's a matter of necessity. Conversation can't be shared when one side is looked down upon."

He pushes up his glasses once more. Don't give me that, I don't like it either but this is something that needs to be done.

"Hmph, very well. I shall keep watch over you for now."

"You don't need to do that, it's highly unpleasant."

"I know."

PART TWO

Having escaped from the nightmarish white void and the reincarnation of Nyarlathotep himself, I turn to see that I was still in my bed. I've only slept for a couple of hours but I can't seem to fall back to sleep; I'm simply too distraught right now over what happened.

Lorelei's story, I should take it with a grain of salt, not because she was telling a lie but even she doesn't seem to understand everything.

Right now was an ungodly hour, even too early for birds to start chirping. The sun wasn't even starting to rise, but the snow was ever falling.

"Umm."

I turn my head and see Alice standing next to my bed with her pillow. I can sort of see where this is going, but…

"What's wrong Alice?"

I ask trying to be as hospitable as possible since she was clearly shaking all over.

"I, I can't sleep. Can I sleep here?"

"Eh? Ah, sure."

I move over a bit and pat the area next to me.

She slowly gets under the blanket and lies down. After doing so she still didn't seem quite satisfied, as she clung onto my clothes.

She was still shivering a bit, most likely because she was scared from the abandoned house earlier.

I give her a heart hug and she calms down. Within a few minutes she falls quietly asleep.

Sleeping defencelessly and peacefully even though she was so spooked out by Lorelei, right now you wouldn't really believe she was scared to begin with. I can hear the sounds of her tossing and turning adorably, mumbling incoherent sweet words to the pillow.

Unable to sleep due to having so much in my head, I decide to go downstairs. I find Miko sitting down in front of the fireplace staring blankly with her arms folded.

I can see bags forming under eyes, she must've been thinking about Lorelei's story as well. [Ragnarok] is something that would affect everyone regardless so it wasn't surprising that she would be agitated.

"Miko?"

I ended up calling out to her unconsciously. Her silver wolf ears twitched as it registered my voice.

"Mma? Morgant, what are you doing? You should still be sleeping."

"Yeah, sorry but I couldn't go back to sleep."

"You have those eyes again, what do you plan on doing this time?"

"What do you mean?"

I ask with a smile on my face. She's experienced enough to know that I was only faking it, she makes an irritated face as she realizes this.

"Don't play dumb, you said something about taking the next step yesterday. Just what did you mean by that?"

"You're very kind, Miko."

I smile at her for real this time. I am very grateful to her good will, from the bottom of my heart, but the things I'll be doing in the future, I do not wish to involve anyone from this orphanage.

"Stop dodging the question and answer me."

"I don't plan on doing anything at the moment. There will come a time that I will but right now there are also a lot of things I still want to do here. I would be too saddened to leave everyone when you've all just become my new family."

"You… Hmph, fine. Then just promise me you'll be careful."

"Of course, I give you my word."

"Mmm, you always give me a headache."

"I know."

PART THREE

Around when midday rolled around I found myself sitting bored, yawning, in the middle of class while 'listening' to a lecture given by Diana. Since most of the stuff she teaches are aimed towards young children I really have no business being here.

Sitting next to me concentrating in class is Celina. She's studying so hard I could see her small eyebrows furrow up. It was rather amusing.

Hmm, actually, I don't think I've ever taken the time to explain about the geography of this world properly.

So why don't I do that now?

Where to start…

As you may have guessed from the context clues, there are 5 main continents in this world.

At the center of the world is [Ariadyne] the center continent and currently the largest 'empire'. There aren't any racial barriers, so a variety of beings live there. That being said however, the [human] and [elven] races are the most populous ones so there is a higher chance that you'll run into them the most.

At the top of the world, at least from a mapping perspective, there is no real direction on a sphere after all, is [Vertloch]. Most of the countries in this world don't actually have any racial barriers, that can be accredited to the efforts of the war 500 years ago. In fact even the calendar was restarted after the last major war, so it has only actually been 499 years. Anyway the Northern continent houses mainly races from the [demon] tribes, with a sprinkling of other races.

Down below is the southern continent of [Arune]. Fun fact, Arune no longer exists as a nation, though I'm sure you've all guessed that by now. As for which races mainly live there, the answer is actually none. No one lives in Arune, officially anyway. The entire continent was declared abandoned and if I had to say who lives there then my answer would be ghosts, relics and monsters. [Archaeological scientists] and I use the term extremely loosely, often go there to excavate, but that's about it. In fact I heard half the continent has sunk underwater.

To the side we have the eastern continent, otherwise known as [Physis]. It is a heavily forested state and most of the inhabitants usually live with the environment instead of making settlements like 'normal people'. That means things like tree houses, mud houses, underground houses, etc. Likewise, a variety of races live there but the majority consists of the [Faeries], the [Beast kin] and the [Golems].

Don't know what [golems] are? Well that's okay! We'll get to them later in the story, probably. I mean I honestly don't have much of an idea what they are either, so I'll have to see them face to face first as well.

Lastly there is the western continent of [Telon]. If I had to describe it's physical appearance I would be hard-pressed to do that. Why? Well, because rather than a 'continent' it's just land? I not even sure how to label it. The entirety of the 'continent' is underground. Literally, just imagine an entire continent that's located beneath the surface of the world. As you can imagine their main business is mining precious ores. The majority race would be the [Titans], [Dwarves] and some [Elves].

Finally there's the ever elusive 'heaven continent' that not many people know about. Which actually brings up another question that I want answered. Does this mean that [Pandemonium], the red moon, also a continent of its own or is it just an uninhabited moon?

We may never know.

As I was thinking to myself I felt the tugging of my shirt to my right.

It was Celina.

"What's wrong, Morgant?"

She asked in that charming voice, which made me want to take her home. Oh wait we're already at home!

"Ah, nothing, I was just thinking about some stuff. Nothing really important."

Actually, there was one more continent I forgot to mention. This one was really just a rumor that people liked to talk about so whether it really exists or not is up for debate. Also in my opinion, from the descriptions, it's too small to be a 'continent'. It is a place known as the [Sky Palace] otherwise known as the 'floating continent' or 'sky continent'. Supposedly the inhabitants there were a race of ancient, ascended dragon race. A highly intelligent and powerful race which also has never been seen by anyone directly.

"What's wrong Morgant? You spaced out again."

"Mm? sorry, did you need help with something?"

"Yes, I don't understand this question."

Another mathematic problem huh? Well I don't mind teaching her. Why does the sight of a small child struggling with math problems seem so endearing to me?

Wait! Could it be?

Am I becoming a lolicon?!

Has Lina's usual habit rub off on me?!

No, no, no, no. Calm down me. Let's just think about this rationally. I mean what scene of a child wouldn't be called cute? Yeah, I'm sure it's a universal thing so there's no real need to worry about me becoming a deviant any time soon.

Celina turns to look at me with curious eyes. Those big, orange eyes!

It's a trap!

I manage to calm myself down by slapping myself. Thank you admiral. That was close.

I'm getting bemused stares at my direction for my aberrant behaviour. I give a hearty apology for interrupting class and recomposed myself.

"What's wrong?"

"N, nothing."

I say as I rub her head.

"Ehehe- ah! No, I should be doing this problem."

She reluctantly pulls my hand away from her and gets back to her math problems.

Like that I spent the next hour helping Celina solve equations.

PART FOUR

"We're going back to the haunted house!"

Gathered back in our 'secret' meeting spot, Alice boldly proclaims our next course of action. I say 'boldly' because the last time we went there she came back shivering and clinging onto me, even had to sleep in my bed because she was so scared.

Celina and Ren look at her with dubious eyes. They clearly don't want to return and they don't believe Alice really wants to either. To be fair, I was the one who actually saw the ghost, not them. Well, I guess this is what children are like.

But to think she has the guts to go back there, I'm rather impressed Miss Alice, at either your bravery or stupidity.

"We can't."

I deny her. There's no real reason for me to go back there, If you think Lorelei is still there then you're mistaken. She's a sort of free ghost so she just wonders around wherever she wants. I don't even know why she was in that house to begin with.

So I know for a fact that she's not there anymore, and with Celina holding the hem of my shirt, as though to tell me to stop her, I give in to that sweet petition.

Besides, I don't want to make more trouble for Miko.

So I denied Alice's decision.

"Why?"

She looks at me with those big blue eyes.

"Because Miko knows we went there last time so she'll notice if we disappear."

"Mmm. No helping it then. We'll do something else for now! We're-"

"Morgant~ are you here?."

As Alice was about to announce Diana came to our 'secret' meeting area and called for me.

"Diana? What is it?"

She's as alluring as usual in that white nun's uniform. Even her… 'assets' are very pretty today. I wonder if she's still chaste, I mean this world doesn't have those kinds of restrictions like Earth's religion does.

…

What? Why are you looking at me like that? I can't help it! Diana is, picture perfect a woman of my tastes.

Well, let's deviate from that topic for now.

"You have a guest."

"A guest?"

That doesn't sound right. No one should know about me begin here. A list of several candidates go through my head, but the only real possibilities are between some [Demon general] or [Ciocal].

I don't think Diana would let me meet anyone potentially dangerous so it wouldn't be anyone I didn't want to meet.

"I understand, please guide me to them."

PART FIVE

My guest was a man I had no knowledge of.

Also, it might be rude to judge people based on their appearance alone but I don't like the fake smile he has on his face. I know I use the same smile but since that's me so it's okay. Since Diana let him in it meant that the possibility of this man becoming some dangerous person was rather low.

Oh well, even if he was a dangerous person, looking at his level right now he wasn't someone I couldn't beat down easily.

[Enrich. Level 14, Emissary of demons]

I have to say that this interface isn't exactly intuitive, I'm only ever told of their most prominent job in the class section.

He had this considerably relaxed aura about him, though I'm 97% sure that's just to make the opponent drop their guard. I know this because I do the same thing. I would love Miko to confront this man's fake smile because she's so adept at finding those kinds of things.

He has a coolly combed over black hair, like a certain someone, and a golden earring on his left ear. He's wearing some sort of brown leather vest and suit with a grey overcoat. The quality of those materials don't seem very cheap so I'm assuming he's someone with quite a bit of financial power.

Oh right, the elephant in the room. [Emissary of Demons]? What that hell does that mean? I'm certain that this man is human. Vertloch doesn't have a nobility system so it's not a noble title, it doesn't seem like a merchant title either.

If I had to say, his ambiance is similar to Kyrios' in some way. Which immediately puts him at my top 3 for people I don't want to engage with. Incidentally the first and second slot are reserved for [Hiyama Kyousuke] and [Kyrios].

The children are hiding behind Diana. They're somewhat cautious of this man, a very reasonable response if I do say so myself.

He bows before me.

"It is a pleasure to finally meet you. Lord Kyrios has spoken extremely highly of you and extends his sympathies for your current predicament."

Hmm, actually, now that I think about it I seem to recall hearing about this. [Emissary of demons].

"Could it be? Were you the one with Chrom, that time in the Northern Capital?"

"I am impressed, you are most certainly correct. I am known as Enrich, an Emissary of the demon race. For the most part I simply negotiate between demons and other races."

"Right, you know you caused some trouble and I had to clean up your mess. It was a pain."

"I see, you have my most sincere apologies."

"Now, now, Morgant. That's no way to talk to an adult. I am not too sure on the details of your relationship but you must show respect to your elders."

Diana interrupts us briefly. Her pleasant face contrasting with a stern expression wouldn't normally make people listen to her very well when she scolds them, but of course I know better than to oppose her. She's stronger than Miko after all.

Besides most children in the orphanage are well meaning so they don't usually go out of their way to make trouble for Diana.

"Yes, of course, you are right Diana. Mr. Enrich, please accept my apologies."

"It's quite alright, but I accept your apologies."

There was a moment of brief, uncomfortable silence between us. I hate this part of the apology. So awkward.

"Then, please use the meeting room on the second floor, I will take these children away. Morgant, you know where it is right?"

"Yes."

Noticing our silence Diana directed us to a private room. The children made moaning noises as they were taken away, probably they wanted to know what was doing on.

They gave me puppy dog eyes, pleading to let them in on the scoop.

Now, now, it's time for adults to talk so you kids should just go play amongst yourselves for a little bit.

I gave them a non-verbal apology and proceeded to lead Enrich to the meeting room.

It was a moderately sized room with a large, wooden table in the center surrounded by chairs.

My brain entered auto-mode and by a sheer force of habit, after entering the room I looked the doors and pulled down the blinds. Doing so prompted Enrich to furrow his eyebrows curiously.

"Ah, sorry, force of habit."

I've mentioned it before, but there is no electricity in this world so this room's only source of light were the small strips of light that made it through from the edge of the blinds.

It was a little too dark so I lifted the blinds a bit more to let in a moderate amount of visibility.

I ushered him to sit on one of the chairs and I sat opposite to him. As you can imagine my heart was gleaming with excitement over this 'business' like interview. Now if only I were a few dozen inches taller.

Well, I guess I have the future to look forward to for that.

"Thank you for agreeing to this interview, I'd like to have a discussion about your future prospects at this company."

"… I'm sorry?"

Enrich raises one eyebrow and looks at me like suspiciously.

Ah, dammit, my old habits began to resurface. I drew my middle and index figure up to my nose bridge. Remembering that I did not have glasses I immediately just slapped my face with my palms.

"Sorry, an old habit, anyway. You said you were the [Emissary of demons], but why did you come to me?"

"I was told to come see how you were doing by Lord Kyrios' instructions. It seems they were pretty worried with what happened to you, but it looks like you have everything under control."

"I'm surprised they even knew what happened to me, let alone locate me."

"Yes, well, Lord Kyrios has eyes and ears everywhere. He also sends you this as a 'get-well' gift."

He hands me a small metallic object. Immediately I can sense some sort of power from within.

It was a golden [Ankh]. You know, of the Egyptian variety.

I take the Ankh and 'inspect' it.

[Cursed Ankh].

WELL GEE THANKS KYRIOS, THIS IS THE SINGLE BEST GET WELL GIFT EVER.

Regardless, the stats on this thing isn't too bad.

[Cursed Ankh]

+45 Strength

+25 Dexterity

+15 Intelligence

+25 Insight

[An Ankh that was once possessed by the Black Pharaoh. The wearer is able to hear screams coming from within it at night].

I can just imagine Kyrios' amused smile as I receive this.

[Black Pharaoh]. Lovecraft this time, huh?

I'll still accept it since it gives a nice boost to my stats, but I wish he would be more considerate next time.

So you might be wondering why not all items give me stat boosts. Well the answer is simple. Only enchanted items like the [shard of Tyrving] or [cursed Ankh] will give stats, otherwise I would go around with every trivial item on my person to boost me up to kingdom come.

Regardless, I feel a great power coursing through me right now, accompanied by an unbelievable urge to hit things, but I'll suppress it for the time being.

"Tell him if I die and Astaroth gets mad, it's his fault."

Enrich chuckles at that statement.

"Of course. I will deliver it without fail."

"So? I'm guessing there was some other reason you came here right? I can't imagine someone like you just coming for an errand."

"Yes, you are quite right about that, there is one more person that I wished to see. She should also be in this town."

"Yeah? Then why don't I go with you? There's actually someone I wanted to see in this town as well and I have the feeling that they're probably the same person."

He gives me a shady smile. Honestly, Kyrios and his ilk all share the same dubious smile, well, with the exception of Chrom.

"Of course, it would be my pleasure."

PART SIX

So it turns out Enrich is a frequent donor to this orphanage; he helps greatly with the finances. Good job Enrich?

So that explains why Diana seemed rather comfortable around him, despite his ambiance. I don't really think he's a bad person either.

That being said, when we told Diana that Enrich and I would go out for a bit, she made a slightly worried expression. I explained to her that there was no problem and I can take care of myself. Since she knows about my 'expeditions' into the forest, she does have some semblance of an idea about my strength.

She reluctantly gives us her consent.

The children said that they wanted to come along but Diana denied their requests. They made a face as though to say it was unfair and once again gave me their puppy dog eyes. However, just like before I give them a non verbal apology and leave.

Taking this opportunity we dressed up in some thick coats since it was snowing, it was always snowing, and toured through the town. I really hadn't taken the time to truly appreciate this place. There were many spectacles to be seen, especially the trading markets. So many different races were buying and selling things.

My inner 34 year old business was being channelled and I wanted so much to join in their conversation about the economic prosperity of their business and the direction they were taking to expand their merchantry, but I held myself back.

Walking around some more we came upon a small flower shop. A large sign on the roof read [Lilith's Flower Emporium]. Several brightly colored mana stones illuminated the sides making it look like neon lights glowing.

For starters, I don't think this girl understands what 'emporium' means, because this is just a small corner shop.

Secondly, I would love to see what kind of flowers would grow in such a harsh climate, but whatever, I'll ignore it for now.

As we entered the bells on the door started to ring. Following that the shop owner clumsily stood up from the counter to come greet us.

"Ah! W, welcom- wah!"

Failing to do even the most basics of task like 'greeting us' this clumsy girl tried to run to us but fell flat on her face with her buttocks facing upwards. It's a shameful look for a woman so pretty.

I daresay, her looks exceeded most other women and her 'assets' exceeded the industry average. Though I suppose that's no surprise considering her race. I mean I'm not trying to be racist or anything, but her 'race' or 'species' are known for their womanly charm.

If you know what I mean. Wink. Wink. Nudge. Nudge.

No?

Okay fine, she's a [Succubus].

She's the one from before that always used to 'save' me from my nightly expeditions. I am grateful you know, I even came all the way here to greet her. Her blazing red hair which would make even the most charming woman turn green with envy from the silky texture, was now mopping the floor. To make matters worse, her 'horns' on the side of her face were also scratching against the wooden floor. I winced at the high pitched screeching it made.

I didn't know which would hurt more, her horns or the floor.

"Are you alright?"

I gave her a few minutes to recompose herself and pretend this never happened but she didn't get up. I went to help her but unfortunately my stature is a little small so I could only help so much.

"Ah, y, yes. Thank you very mu-! Ah! Lord Morgant! I, I'm so sorry! I didn't know you were coming!"

She lowered her head against the floor making my efforts in vain.

"So you already know my name huh?"

[Lilith De Signa. Level 46, Florist].

Instantly I realized what the problem was with this girl. She was saying some cryptic things to me the night before, about how she was a failure and no one would take her in.

She's the daughter of the demon lord. THAT demon lord.

I can't even imagine how. That loli has a child this big, it's almost unbelievable. Lilith is almost twice Astaroth's size.

No, no, that wasn't the main problem.

She's the offspring of a demon lord and she's a florist.

The contrast was so poor it was almost comedic. Granted, her level wasn't too bad at 46, but compared to her mother or even the other high ranking demons I've met, it's still way below standard.

Seeing her shiver like that I almost want to give her a hug. It's a powerful imagery isn't it? A nubile young woman who was rather loosely dressed, shivering like a newborn puppy.

That being said, I don't think she was exactly shivering at me but towards the person behind me.

"Is something the matter?"

Enrich asks, tilting his head in confusion.

"E, eh?! N, no. nothing's wrong."

She averts her gaze and shifts backwards a tad bit. I completely understand why someone would want to stay as far away from him as possible with his untrustworthy smile, but I think it's still a little premature.

"Hmm? But you're shivering, are you cold?"

Enrich takes off his coat to offer it to her. When he steps closer she shivers even more.

"S, stay back, please!

Almost as though she saw a ghost she shouts.

If someone were to look at this scene from the outside without proper context they would think Enrich was some sort of sex offender. A rather amuse thought I almost burst out laughing at the imagery of him being arrested by the police and ending up on late night news programmes.

Sigh, but those things don't even exist in this world.

But I digress, I do think she's overreacting a little.

"Is something wrong?"

He asks while take a few steps back with his hands in front of him.

"S, sorry. I'm just a bit scared."

"Scared?"

Enrich and I turn to each other. We each give a quizzical look.

"I, I'm not good with men."

"…" x2

Eh? What?

Correct me if I'm wrong but don't [Succubi] live off the essence of men? Or was that just my preconceptions of the myth?

Suddenly she starts to breath heavily and her face turns bright red. What's going on now?

I approach forward. It doesn't seem like she has the same aversion towards me, probably because my body isn't really all that threatening. I place my hands on her forehead to measure her temperature.

It's extraordinarily hot, to the point that I immediately withdrew my hands. I thought it was going to barbeque.

"You're sick!"

"Ah, s, sorry."

I don't want your apology, I want to know the reason why and a way to fix this.

I turn to Enrich for any solutions or ideas. He thinks for a moment before answering.

"Hmm, perhaps she's just hungry?"

"Hungry?"

"She seems to be low on mana. If a succubus' mana isn't restored they will start to wither, eventually they'll die. Or at least that's what I've been told, very rarely do succubi die in that manner. Simply put this phenomenon is because her mana reserves are low."

"So, what do we do?"

"This is quite troublesome, if we leave her like this she'll most likely die. Being afraid of men she probably couldn't replenish her mana. This is a difficult problem indeed."

Eh…

"This 'method' of replenishing her mana. You're not going to tell me it involves male reproductive fluid, are you?"

"I'm surprised you know so much for your age."

"Are you making fun of me?"

"No such thing. But yes, the essence of men is used to replenish a succubus' mana. I have heard that in emergencies blood could be use as substitute, but since blood is less virile a considerable amount is required and in most cases the men would die from having their blood drawn too much. Besides the problem is that she's afraid of men, whether it's reproductive fluid or blood it wouldn't matter if she's too afraid to even get close to them."

He looks at me. With a smile on his face might I add. I know what he's thinking, you probably would have already guessed at it. We all get it, there's only one real answer to this problem isn't there?

PART SEVEN

"T, thank you very much!"

Having regained her vigour, her complexion looks much better than before. Her temperature has also gone down considerably, though it is still a little high but it should be well within acceptable range.

"I'm impressed you could go for so long."

Enrich chuckles as he tells me his impression.

"Leave me alone, I've trained it up a bit but I still need more practice."

Okay, this ruse has gone on long enough. No, I didn't sleep with her, so you can start pulling back pants back up. We'd be violating all sorts of laws, not that they exist in this world but in my mind I still like to think they do.

Since she simply needed an 'essence' of a man, all I did was use [Transfer Life]. While it isn't exactly 'virile' but it is much more direct and tangible than blood so it was a perfect substitute for baby batter.

"So? How do you feel? You look relatively healthy now, but you could just be faking it."

"N, no such thing! I'm feeling much better thanks to you, Lord Morgant."

'Lord Morgant' she says. 'Master' was one thing but I don't feel quite comfortable with her calling me that.

"Would you stop calling me that? It's uncomfortable."

"Eh, but then what should I call you?"

"Just 'Morgant' is fine."

"I, I couldn't! to call someone of your stature simply by name!"

"Are you making fun of my size?"

"N, no! I simply cannot call someone as revered as you by your name."

I sigh.

"I don't remember doing anything to warrant such praise."

"On the contrary, you've gained quite a bit of attention within Demon Lord's army. Many rumors and stories of your accomplishments are spread around, especially among the higher ranking officers."

Enrich explains to me. What 'accomplishments'? All I did was take a man in his late forties down and talk to a computer.

"Then just call me master like everyone else."

"Eh, would that be okay?"

She says with twinkles in her eyes.

"Yeah."

She's smiling cheerfully now, even though just a couple of minutes ago she was knocking on death's door. I just don't understand this girl.

"Ah!"

She suddenly shouts out aloud.

"What? Did you forget something?"

"N, no, I forgot to introduce myself."

I sighed. That should be the first thing he do when you meet people. It just gets more awkward to introduce yourself as time goes on.

"Don't worry I already know. You're Lilith right? Astaroth's daughter."

"Eh? H, how did you know?"

"I couldn't mistake that bright red hair for anyone else's."

Lilith tries to look at her own red hair, but since her hair is rather short she struggles to do so. Enrich looks at me with an impressed smile.

Of course that was a lie, I just looked at her title, but it would be more troublesome to explain that. They don't even question me on how I knew her name.

Before we could continue on with the conversation the door's bells ring once more. A new customer.

"There you are, Diana said you went somewhere with this guy."

It was Miko, it seems she has been looking for me. And I tried my best to not give her anymore trouble, I apologized in my heart to her. That being said, she was giving Enrich some impressive stare.

I knew this would happen, and looking at it in person was much more satisfying.

"Good evening, Miko, have you been well?"

Enrich asks, but all he gets is a scoff and a 'hmph' from her. She then focuses her gaze on me.

"We're going back now. So come quick."

"But it looks like Lilith wants to ask me something."

I pass on the conversation potato to Lilith. She looks at me with the expression of a deer caught up in headlights.

"Ah! Yes, please make me your servant!"

I kind of feel like I was putting her up for public embarrassment. That wasn't my intentions at all.

"Ha? 'Servant'? Lilith, what are you talking about?"

Of course Miko was the only one unaware of my position within the demon lord's army so it would look weird to her.

"Eh? I, um wanted to serve Master Morgant?"

"Huh? Why would you want to serve that brat?"

As she says that I can see her tails moving furiously.

"Um, because?"

"'Because'?"

"I see, you were unaware of Master Morgant's position."

Enrich interrupts.

"What are you talking about?"

"You are aware that this continent's official army is the demon lord's army, correct?"

"What of it?"

"Well, Master Morgant holds a special place in said army."

"Huh? This brat?"

She looks at me with dubious eyes. She doesn't believe him. I simply return a smile, to which she makes a sour face. Always the amusing reaction I see.

"That's right, Master Morgant has the coveted position as a General of the Demon Lord Astaroth, making him the 13th Demon General."

There was a long period of silence in the room. Miko kept turning her gaze between the three of us, probably trying to make sure that we weren't playing some sort of prank on her. Since she's of the beast kin, and the were-wolf tribe at that, her prowess at finding out of a person was lying or not was great.

After what seemed like 10 minutes of silence Miko found out that none of us were joking.

"Since when?"

She asked.

"Since I was three."

I answered with a smile. Yeah, even I wouldn't believe my own words if I were in her position.

Miko became stuck in place trying to swallow what was being told to her.

Enrich and Lilith turned towards me, waiting on my next move.

"I understand your reasoning for wanting to serve under me. Though I didn't think Astaroth was the type to cast out her own daughter because of something like her androphobia."

"She, mother didn't. I left the capital on my own accord. Since mother's usually easy going she didn't mind it very much but the others did. They would all give me displeased looks and passively told me to leave. So I gave in and left of my own accord."

It's not like I couldn't understand that. I would've probably done the same in her shoes.

"Alright, I'll let you serve under me."

"R, really?!"

"Let me warn you though, the path I'm going to walk isn't an easy one. No doubt there will be lots of bloodshed and tragedies. The enemy is the world itself after all. Do you still wish to follow me?"

"Yes!"

I give a small chuckle. I like her determination.

"I see, very well then. If you're with me you'll probably get used to men as I grow older, and not only that you'll probably get a lot stronger too since we'll be fighting a lot in the future. Then I'll take you back to the capital of Vertloch with your shoulders held high."

"Yes! Thank you!"

I could see droplets of tears falling down her eyes. They were tears of happiness so it wasn't anything bad.

"Not to intrude, but what do you mean by 'the enemy is the world'?"

Enrich ruins the touching scene and interrupts.

When I glare at him he just smiles back at me. I can sort of understand why Miko hates this smile so much.

I see Miko has regained her composure and is listening in on the conversation.

I walk a bit further away from the bunch and look at the flowers in the shop. There are a few flowers that I recognize, or find similar to the ones from my previous world.

This one especially with its puffed up features and abundant petals. It was Kyoko's favorite, the [Hydrangea]. In the language of flowers it means abundance or heartfelt, referring to how it has numerous pedals and a elegant design.

The world has these qualities, I've seen it numerous times. Yet at the same time the world is also a dark place.

"The world is a cruel place. It takes from you whatever it wishes and leaves you desperately clinging onto dear life. I've lost my family twice."

I start, they all listen in. Enrich makes a complicated face as he hears me say the word 'twice'. He probably knows a bit about my background in this world if he's Kyrios' subordinate.

"At first I thought it would be okay to simply accept it at move on. There was nothing I could do after all right? However when it happened a second time, I finally realized that ignoring the problem and solving the problem were two different things."

"Master…"

"I have no intentions of letting it happen a third time. Fortunately for me this time I can see it on the horizon, the thing that will come to take everything. I will fight it, I will protect what I have come to love. Whether it's god or the world, I will fight."

"This thing, you are referring to [Ragnarok]?"

Enrich asks. He seemed to have some idea about it.

"You knew?"

"Of course, for one our calendar was a big tip after all. Besides, I have studied ancient records and documents so I had a feeling. Pardon my skepticism, but how exactly do you plan on fighting against [Ragnarok]?"

"'Fight against'? no, you've gotten it all wrong, from the beginning I had no intentions of fighting against it?"

"Eh? Then what do you mean?"

"Isn't it obvious? I plan to make [Ragnarok] a reality."

END REPORT

[Status Menu]

Morgant Fallon. Level 37

NECROMANCER/DEMON GENERAL

Strength: 230 (155+75)

Dexterity: 60 (5+55)

Intelligence: 50 (5+45)

Insight: 100 (45+55)

[Status point: 0]

[Skill menu]

(AUGMENT) [Strike+]: Level 24

(ACTIVE) [Summon Skeleton Knight]: Level 19

(ACTIVE) [Transfer Life]: Level 19

(PASSIVE) [Life Force Sensory]: Level 50 (MAX)

(ACTIVE) [Life drain]: Level 50 (MAX)

(ACTIVE) [Wither]: Level 24

(ACTIVE) [Decay]: Level 36

(AUGMENT) [Aura Field]: Level 23

(ACTIVE) [Soul Gambit]: Level 15

(PASSIVE) [Physical Damage Resistance]: Level 50 (MAX)

(ACTIVE) [Obsidian Lance]: Level 34

(ACTIVE) [Obsidian Shield]: Level 31

(ACTIVE) [Reanimate Dead]: Level 27

(AUGMENT) [Enchanting Voice]: Level 13

(PASSIVE) [Lord of Ghosts]: Level 12

(ACTIVE) [Phantasmal Maelstrom]: Level 17