Ch. 581..590

Chapter 581

The entombed body took in a deep breath, the first it had taken in a millennium. Its eyes blinked as if it struggled to believe the world around it. Carefully, the second body used its hands to lift itself out of the marble coffin and smile back at Jack.

While the women were in awe, Jack blinked and smiled back. Jack waved to himself as his second body did the same. They leaned back from side to side, like they were reflections of each other.

"I think that’s enough playing around, Jack," Daruun laughed. "Before you do anything, let me explain a few things."

"Okay."

"You got it, Gramps."

Each of Jack’s bodies replied, proving to himself and everyone else that they were indeed linked.

Nodding, Daruun explained, "First off, you should notice that your second body is still lv. 85. There’s a way to instantly change that, but don’t do it. Not yet."

"How? And why shouldn’t I?" asked Jack.

"As you’re linked spiritually, you can decide whether you share energy or whether each body should have isolated energy siphons. If you open the link right now, then the surplus energy of your stronger body will immediately rush into your weaker body until there’s a balance. Doing it right now would mean you’ll drop to lv. 90 while your other body will reach lv. 90 and ascend instantly."

"Then--"

"But trust me, you don’t want to do that, at least not yet," stated Daruun. "You’ll see why in a few days so save that moment for later. Also, you can later close that link and allow one of your bodies to focus on gathering cosmic energy. Then, you can open the link and the stronger body will pass it’s extra EXP to your linked bodies. It’s how I can train while I’m busy governing a district."

Jack nodded slowly, taking in that fact.

"Also, there’s something you should know, given how you’ve yet to experience it," Daruun added. "Your bodies are designed to run purely on energy, not oxygen."

"WHAT?! How can--"

"It’s something that all cosmicians can learn. Sometimes it takes some minor body alterations or finding a special technique, but it’s common for two-stars and stronger to do so. But since your bodies were handmade or personally altered by me, I made sure to include that ability. It kicks in once you ascend, so you’re immortal self has no need to breathe oxygen. You’ll be able to go underwater without worry, or any other liquid that would impede normal breathing. Also, it means you’ll be able to traverse the void without any extra technology or a ship, an ability commonly used for battles outside of an atmosphere."

"And... my other body?"

"Just as I’ve modified the body to mimic your true appearance and reprogrammed your system into it, I added that feature as well. Once it ascends, your second body will also gain that ability." Daruun mentioned, "And since we’re talking about complex leveling and surviving the void, you should know that your mutual seal and your pacts won’t be the same. Both of those were designed to handle the energy of Kartonia. You’ll still keep your mental links and your skill lists but sharing energy between you won’t be a thing, not including your second body."

"So... apart from what we do on Kartonia, I won’t gain EXP from those outlets anymore?"

"You won’t gain EXP at all," corrected Daruun. "You’ll begin gathering raw cosmic energy once you enter the void, the rawer the better. So you’ll have to rely on yourself and your extra bodies to grow stronger and surpass two-stars, three-stars, and so on."

"You’ll also want to check your skill list."

Hearing the smile in Daruun’s voice, Jack instantly opened his menu. The hero broke out in hysterical laughter the moment he opened the list.

"All the effort you poured into Kartonia as Jack J. hasn’t gone to waste. Wouldn’t you agree?" Daruun asked.

"Definitely!"

Jack was overwhelmingly happy! His list of acquired skills had more than doubled in an instant. And by the look of all the new skills, Jack easily figured out how it happened.

"Since you’ve regained all of your lost skills, don’t focus on buying any new skills. If it becomes necessary, create one with your system skill."

"Hmm? My system skill?" Jack flipped to a new tab labeled [System Skills]. There, Jack found [Spirit Replication] and [Skill Consolidation].

Continuing, Daruun explained, "In the void, everything is a skill. Spells are mystic skills and martial skills are what you call skills in Kartonia. You can call them abilities and techniques but the most common term is skills among mystic and martial cosmicians."

"Now that the lesson’s over, what are you going to do?" asked Daruun.

"After my medicine bath, I’ll ask Dragas for help."

"Are you going to show off your new body?"

"No... This will remain a secret... That way, even if one of my bodies is destroyed, I’m still alive, right?"

"Correct..." Daruun nodded. "Also, there’s no better intel than intel you’ll secretly gain for yourself, without any middleman to filter the information. If your second body is a secret, then the possibilities of espionage are amazing to think about."

"So I’ll talk with Dragas and focus on leveling up everyone in the guild. Including a few demigods will let me level up too." Jack paused for a moment, scratching his head in thought. "If my second body is already a god, would it also--"

"Yes, so long as your second body is a god, both bodies will level up from aiding a demigod," answered Daruun. "But that boost in level only exists while you’re here in Kartonia. If you select a demigod and they ascend while you’re off-world, then you won’t receive any of the leftover energy."

"Then I’ll need to take advantage of the level system in Kartonia while I still can," Jack chuckled, making both of his bodies turn and smile to his wives. "I’ll keep my other body hidden at all times, but it may show up later tonight..."

 

Chapter 582

"Save that for pillow talk, Jack. I’m just glad to see that the replication was successful!" Daruun reached out and hugged both Jacks, sighing, "I can’t wait to see what you do..."

Jack opened his mouth to reply but a telepathic message stopped him.

’Jack, Lyrun wants to talk with you.’

Replying to Moranti, Jack stated, ’I’ll be there in a minute. Let me finish something really quick.’

’No, Lyrun wants to schedule a time to talk,’ added Moranti. ’He wants to know if you’ll be able to speak with him in thirty minutes.’

’Sure, that’s easy.’

’Great. I can’t wait to see what you two come up with!’

"So, are you excited to finally get involved with Lyrun’s plans?" asked Daruun, catching the women off guard.

"Then Lyrun should be the new ally you talked about?" Jack replied with a question and a smile.

"I’ll allow you four to get back to business. Don’t worry about visiting me unless you’re desperate for advice or there’s an unforeseen emergency. My seventh body has already entered a meeting with Silas and the other two district leaders of the Resolute Enterprise," added Daruun. "I’ll be heading back home so I won’t be nearby to help you."

"If anything comes up, then we’ll let you know. I think we already understand enough to make things work for now. Thanks, Gramps!" Jack hugged Daruun again, saying goodbye.

Daruun hugged each of his granddaughters as well, elated to see them desirous to grow stronger alongside Jack. After finishing his goodbyes, Daruun parted with a final wave as he entered the spatial gate.

Jack let his wives get a closer look at his second body while they had a few minutes alone. Eliza was the first to feel up the new body, verifying that it was indeed a second Jack in every way. Maura blushed as she felt the new body’s shoulders and arms. Daliea, on the other hand, kept the touching to a minimum but was blushing more than anyone.

Soon, Jack made his second body became invisible and took his wives back to the guild. Jack was going to need to hold a meeting and explain the concept of the void to the others, excluding Sterfen’s origin for the time being. But that would be after his auditory meeting with Lyrun.

Maura hurried home to prepare lunch with Daliea and Eliza left to visit Argyle, leaving Jack alone to pay a visit to Moranti in their conference room.

They patiently waited until the precise moment a half-hour had passed. At that moment, Moranti chuckled and passed the contact crystal to Jack.

"Hello?"

"Jack, it’s nice to speak with you again. I hope you’re doing well after your encounter with Halmut."

Chuckling, Jack replied, "Don’t worry about that. I’m doing fine. Mind telling me why you’re breaking ranks to contact me?"

"Getting right to the point, huh..." Lyrun casually sighed. "There are three of us legendary gods that seek refuge with the Leisure Guild. I’m reaching out in hope of becoming allies private so that we can soon become allies in public."

"I agree that we should be allies. It’s something that Moranti, Sterfen, and Daruun are very adamant about."

"Then how can we make it happen?" asked Lyrun. "What would you suggest?"

Jack answered, "There are a few things that are on our immediate to-do list. One is to get the final enchantment key from Kylon."

"You know that she has it? Might I ask how?"

"Daruun. But I’ve also verified it myself," Jack chuckled, proud to have his system.

"Fair... Are you asking for us to retrieve it for you?"

"Would that be possible?" asked Jack.

Sighing, Lyrun stated, "Sorry, Jack, but I doubt we could pull that off without getting caught. And if we get caught, then we’ll lose our contracts and our lives."

"Who’s we?"

"Perchet and Oosam are also seeking refuge with the Leisure Guild. But we won’t be able to get you the enchantment key. At least, we can’t get it ourselves. We may be able to help coordinate its retrieval."

"So you’ll keep us informed about the moves of the Legendary Gods and you’ll look for the best opportunity to steal the key?" Jack questioned.

"That much is simple to do. Consider it done." Lyrun added, "Just know that Oosam’s contract can kill him. Even if halmut learns of mine and Perchet’s actions, there’s still a chance that Moranti and Sterfen could help us escape with our lives but that’s not true for Oosam. The only way to free him is to destroy the contract."

"Hmm... I don’t think getting it is impossible but that makes things much more difficult..."

"Also, I have a request for Trodar," continued Lyrun. "I want you to visit Korten and discuss their integration into Trodar."

"That--"

"Please, Jack. If not now, then there’s a chance that they’ll become Halmut’s pawns yet again. I’d much rather see them fight for their freedom than see them fight for the perverted justice that Halmut seeks for himself."

"Well... It’s easier than getting the contracts," stated Jack.

"Please, Jack. I’m sure Eedaj would wish the best for them as well. You should bring him with you, the sooner the better."

"Hmmmmm... Give me a moment to think..." Jack sighed.

Silence passed for more than five minutes as Lyrun patiently waited for Jack.

"So... I think I have an idea about how to do this," Jack spoke up. "It will probably be riskier than you’d want, but I think it’s our best shot at getting the key and getting you three freed from your contracts."

"At the same time?" asked Lyrun.

"Yup, at the same time."

The Elf God sat in his silenced, sealed room, tapping his fingers on his staff. "How certain is success?"

"I’d say... So long as a few key things happen... more than eighty percent."

A moment passed as Lyrun mumbled into the contact crystal as if consulting those around him. Finally, Lyrun responded, "We’re in."

"Then I’ll let me explain. Ask questions the moment you have them."

Chapter 583

The entire world was now facing the same decision. Which side would they choose? Between Halmut and his legendary gods or Jack and his leisure gods, which side should each nation support?

Some nations felt the decision was simple and easy, like Maldor and Zuran. Others, like Aazoon, had chosen to swing the other way. All other nations were left to decide for themselves which was best and the recent conference in Churstin only made the decision more difficult. How could the general populace not be startled to hear that a newly ascended god, managed to repel Halmut and force his retreat. And not only that but how could they ignore the fact that Trodar was creating new gods, the leader being arguably being the most well-known ancient hero turned god?!

There was one nation that everyone knew was bound to bear the banner of the legendary gods. That was... until that nation kept its trade pact with Trodar and still hadn’t announced direct allegiance to either side. One side was the clear favorite with the most respected god leading the way and the other was a reviving guild that had been creating gods and was starting to boast the most booming economy in Kartonia.

And seeing Korten in limbo only kept the world on edge. For the most devoted nation during the previous Godly War to be on the fence now forced the other nations to take the decision seriously.

However, the rest of the world didn’t know that a majority of the elven elders were already campaigning to rally under Halmut and the legendary gods. Yet there was one person who stopped them from forcing the entire nation to band together for another war.

"Gwendon, why are you hesitating?!"

Sitting uncomfortably behind his desk, Gwendon slouched backward as he took in a deep breath. Across from him were a few elven elders, each taking a turn to scold him. After days of keeping them out, the elven elders brought their oldest member to convince Gwendon to change his actions.

Currently, it was the turn of that oldest elder, the most stubborn and most supportive of Halmut and the legendary gods. "Gwendon... Why are you holding us back? Have you any good reason? If so, tell us now so that we can understand. If not, then step aside!"

"No, Father," Gwendon replied with a sigh. "I’m the chief now, so it’s me that--"

"But you’re failing at your most simple duty!" barked the eldest elder.

"If we don’t choose our actions wisely, then we’ll be the ones left extinct..."

"Gwendon, we must--"

"We must carefully ponder our situation and deliberate what course of action would keep Korten alive," stated Gwendon, leaning forward into his desk to show confidence. "The previous war was nothing compared to what’s coming... And would you rather be treated as a tool to play with or as a powerful ally unified for one cause?"

The old elder squinted his eyes in thought. He was caught off guard by his son’s deep question.

Gwendon continued, "What if Jack and Trodar can help us more than Halmut can offer? Then--"

"Impossible!" barked one of the other elders.

The lead elder nodded and shouted, "Right, that’s simply impossible! There’s no way a new power could ever match Halmut and his forces. They may have gods, but Halmut, Lyrun, and the other legendary gods are superior."

"I’m not so sure..." Gwendon mumbled.

"Don’t doubt them, boy!"

"Fool! Have you not heard about what happened in Churstin?! Or has your skull grown thicker in your old age?!" Gwendon retorted, startling his father and the other five elders. "Though Halmut is strong, we can’t deny the strength that Trodar possesses. What do you think happened to Naparn, Father?"

"I’m sure he’s fine."

"Then why hasn’t Halmut declared that to all the land?" Gwendon questioned. "Halmut always shouts to the heavens about his strength and the strength of his followers. Yet when Naparn was taken away during a duel between Moranti and Halmut, no one ever heard of Naparn again with Sterfen being the likely candidate as the former Assassin God. And Naparn was the strongest, only second to Halmut!

"So, if Moranti is able to face Halmut and Sterfen is able to assassinate anyone else, then isn’t Trodar just as capable as the legendary gods? Adding Jack’s ascendance to that only increases their strength and potential, especially considering he managed to repel Halmut without any assistance..."

"What are you saying, Gwendon?"

Looking up to his father, Gwendon, sighed, "I don’t know... They seem to be equals at least, which means we’ll either survive or die by the end of this. However... If we side with Halmut, even if Halmut won in the end, would our people survive?"

"Of course we would!" shouted one of the supporting elders. "Like before, we’ll--"

"You don’t get it!" Gwendon pounded on his desk, splintering the centuries-old piece of furniture. "The last war won’t compare with what’s coming... This time, even gods aren’t safe..."

"Gwendon, you can’t say that. There are--"

"Three gods have died within two weeks, Father," stated Gwendon, leaving the elders speechless. "And all three were killed by the leisure gods. Rather than let Halmut kill him, one captured leisure god killed himself while injuring Halmut... The conviction behind this war is far more unsettling compared to the last war of the gods."

"But we’ll come out on top, we always have!" argued the oldest elder. "Korten has never lost a war and we’ve always sided Halmut. Of course we’ll lose lives, but such is war. We can’t be swayed to--"

"PEOPLE OF ESTONYA!!!"

A thundering voice echoed throughout the elven megacity, shaking the buildings and ringing within the ears of the populace. Gwendon and the elders were motionless as they waited for that voice to continue. They halted their argument as they waited to learn if that voice came from a friend or a foe.

"I, Jack, the Champion God of Trodar, have come to discuss your allegiance with Trodar!"

 

Chapter 584

Standing above Estonya with a proud grin, Jack laughed to himself. After scanning the area briefly, Jack shouted for the entire megacity to hear.

"PEOPLE OF ESTONYA!!!"

As the crowds shook within the streets and the elves across the city searched for the origin of that voice, everyone eventually looked up to the sky. They would eventually find a small figure descending from the sky, appearing to be a human male. After a few moments passed for dramatic effect, that voice filled the city again, but not to the extent it shook the buildings and the citizens.

"I, Jack, the Champion God of Trodar, have come to discuss your allegiance with Trodar!"

Shouts and mutterings filled the city as each citizen reacted to Jack’s cry. They were in disbelief that a god had come to cordially discuss something like an alliance.

Gwendon and the elven elders rushed out of Gwendon’s home, staring intently at the sky. The oldest elder was at a loss for words as he spotted Jack looking back at the elders.

"There you are!" Jack waved with a smile. "Since you’ve yet to join Halmut, then I take it your considering things carefully. Would you mind discussing things more closely?"

"I refuse!"

A new voice shook Estonya before Gwendon or the elven elders could respond. Jack casually turned and asked, "And why not? I just want to talk with them."

"Then why not talk with me first?"

The hearts of the elven people skipped a beat as they recognized the figure rushing down from the clouds. He was acting aggressive but firm, and his reputation only added to the suspense.

"Lyrun... How have you been?" Jack asked.

"I’m doing fine at the moment." Lyrun descended and stood not even six meters from Jack, stating, "Jack, there’s no way for Korten to continue holding true to the trade pact with Trodar. It’s time that Korten reestablishes itself as the superpower it’s meant to be, leading the war effort with pride!"

A few cheers sounded out from different parts of the city. Not everyone was excited to hear that but some acted out of pride alone.

"So you want your people to die?"

That question left the crowd silent, letting Jack continue, "I’m not trying to drag the world into oblivion like Halmut. I see Korten as a powerful ally that would be able to remain free under the banner of Trodar. I’m certain our benefits will surpass anything that you can offer."

"Ridiculous!" shouted Lyrun.

"No, Halmut’s ridiculous! How could he treat the elves like army personnel but never offer support of any kind? What about his dragons? What’s the point of ruling over the dragons when they don’t do anything?!"

"Halmut has never--"

"Then why were the elves forced to endure battle after battle during the past Godly War? Why didn’t the dragons see a single fight, apart from the occasional appearance of a single dragon among an army of thousands of soldiers?" argued Jack. "If Halmut respected the elves, he would have supported them with his other armies instead of leaving them to face the fiercest foes alone and outnumbered!"

"Shut up, Jack! There’s no reason to listen to you!" barked Lyrun.

"Then how come they’re thinking about it?" asked Jack, stringing the crowd along toward his cause. "Aren’t you, Gwendon?"

The elven chief was speechless for a moment. He licked his lips and prepared to speak but another man at his side did first.

"Never! We have no reason to betray Halmut!"

"Oh... are you the retired chief?" Jack questioned, noting that the elder appeared to be at the end of his years. "Sorry, but I’m speaking to Gwendon. I appreciate the opinion, but I don’t believe you’re informed well enough to understand the magnitude of this decision."

"I--"

"Silence, Father! He’s a deity so show some respect!"

The old elf was stunned, stepping back and blinking at the sight of his son’s firm footing and confident steps forward.

"Then can we talk?"

"I still refuse!"

Glancing from the corner of his eye, Jack smiled at Lyrun. "Then how about a deal? They choose for themselves without either of us getting involved. And if you want to question their decision, then I’ll accept your challenge in their shoes."

"And if they choose correctly?" asked Lyrun.

"Then me and you will be fighting. I just said that..."

"And if they choose our side?" rephrased Lyrun, speaking louder as he stepped closer to Jack, not showing any fear.

"Oh, if they choose your side then I’ll leave without any trouble."

Lyrun shook his head and glared at Gwendon below. "Choose, now!"

Gwendon felt no pressure or strength exerted onto him but Gwendon was breaking a sweat all the same. Making such a decision on the spot would be difficult for anyone that cared to consider the pros and cons of both sides.

"We’ll--"

"I said ’Silence, Father’..." Gwendon shut up his father, not letting him interfere anymore.

"I said choose!" ordered Lyrun.

"I can’t choose so suddenly!" stated Gwendon, shouting for all to hear. "Both sides offer protection but it’s unclear which side will truly care for Korten! Tradition is unimportant to me when the lives of my people are at stake!"

Those words touched the hearts of the thousands of elves throughout the city. Many felt similarly to the oldest elder but they couldn’t blame their chief for trying to help the people. Even if someone didn’t want the elder to consider Jack’s offer, they at least felt better knowing that it was out of concern for the people.

"Then choose wisely," added Jack, still smiling confidently. "Say the word and I’m gone. There will be no fight from me today, not unless it’s defending you."

Gwendon felt strange. The last time he saw Jack, Jack had barely been announced as the ancient hero that began the trade between Korten and the Leisure Guild. But now, Jack stood in the air with the dignity and confidence befitting a god. It made Gwendon envious.

"If you want to see more elves become gods, then you should choose wisely."

Chapter 585 "If you want to see more elves become gods, then you should choose wisely."

Those words were spoken proudly along with a firm glare, but only loud enough for the elders and Jack to hear. The elven elders were proud to hear their god use such an argument. However, both Gwendon and the oldest elder were taken aback upon hearing Lyrun’s logic.

Unlike the elders, the elven chief had contact with Lyrun and was privy to some information that would be startling to others. One such fact was about the ascent of new gods and how elves weren’t allowed to raise any more gods. It was just a rule that the former holy gods always had that applied to all races, including dragons. No matter who it was, no one was allowed to ascend without Halmut specifically allowing it on a case by case basis.

For Gwendon and his father, the previous elven chief, Lyrun’s words weren’t an argument to remain on Halmut’s side. Such words supported Jack’s side... But why would Lyrun want that, they wondered?

Lyrun repeated himself, "If you want to see more elves become gods, then you should choose wisely. Otherwise, the elven race may come to an end in the future."

Some of the elders began to speak up but Lyrun and Jack were oblivious to them. There was only one person they wanted to hear from and he was carefully pondering how to phrase his reply.

"Say it... Son."

Gwendon glanced at the side, noticing his Father’s fragile smile. He then looked to Jack and Lyrun proudly before bowing formally. "In that case, Korten chooses to represent Trodar and the Leisure Guild!"

The voice of the elven chief filled the surrounding areas, leaving the entire city speechless.

"Are you sure about this?" asked Lyrun, staring fiercely at Gwendon.

"Yes," Gwendon firmly replied.

"Then, shall we fight?" stepping back into the conversation, Jack raised an eyebrow and asked.

Lyrun’s lip quivered as he redirected all of his anger toward Jack. "You... How dare you deceive my people?!"

"Blame halmut for its bad management, not me!" shouted Jack, defending himself and Kortenb without fear. "What have you done for them in the past five hundred years? The Leisure Gods get blamed for disappearing but you and your fellow legendary gods did the same thing after the war! You did little to nothing to help your people recoup while you demanded their absolute loyalty, to even ask them to die for your cause. I can offer them trade and a great boost in their economy as well as protection and security. Can you match that offer?"

"All you do is spout lies!"

"Then what does Halmut spread apart from glorified rumors and twisted truths?" refuted Jack. "At least I make my true motives known to the people instead of hiding them behind a false smile."

Getting nowhere with a verbal dispute, Lyrun began to climb the sky once again. "Come. You promised a fair challenge, so accept it now!"

"At least you care enough to keep the city out of range..." Jack sighed loudly, sharing their banter with the entire city as he rose up to join Lyrun high above the city. "How do you want to do this?"

"Well, how about..." Suddenly, Lyrun paused his speaking and jolted around. The Elf God held up his staff in defense, finding an invisible attack knocking into his staff. "You’re more impatient than I assumed you would be... Mind showing me a good time?!"

Pushing back with both hands, Lyrun used his staff to force the second Jack backward and then zapped it with lightning. The image of Jack became visible before it faded back out of everyone’s vision. Then, Lyrun spun around and hurled thundering Javelins to the true Jack not far away.

"Not bad!" Jack laughed, activating all his bloodlines to prove his might to the people watching from a distance. The hero evaded the javelins like child’s play, showing off his evasive abilities.

"Tell you what..." Lyrun’s voice echoed, making sure that all Estonya citizens could hear him clearly, "We both know that you can’t break through my defenses but I’ve never seen your defenses tested. Defend yourself against my strongest attack without evading and I’ll leave."

"What? Are you scared to lose?"

"I scared to see my people involved between a battle of gods."

"Fair... Then I accept your challenge! If it keeps them safe, then I’ll take your attack head-on!" shouted Jack.

While the people became more eager than ever to witness this fight and understand their chief’s decision, Jack and Lyrun casually backed away to create a fifty-meter gap between them. Holy light fell upon Lyrun, gathering and intensifying atop his staff. Lightning crackled as it started to wrap around the holy light, intensifying the attack.

"You won’t let this fall on my people?"

Jack replied with a proud nod, "They’ve chosen correctly, so how could I dare not uphold my promise of their security and prosperity?!"

"Then show me how you defend yourself!" Lyrun shouted.

The intense light around Lyrun’s staff exploded forward and rushed toward Jack without mercy. It instantly enveloped Jack entirely, surrounding Jack in pure, blinding holy light that was filled with absurd amounts of static electricity. The crackle of lighting intermingled with the sound of the air sizzling, as it that concentrated holy light was being tightly focused by the world’s largest magnifying glass.

Everyone was in awe. Everyone was either in shock of how powerful that attack was or how Jack willingly accepted to take the attack head-on.

Gwendon remained with the elven elders, watching the fight closely and trying to understand what was going on right now. The elven elders had continued trying to convince Gwendon against joining Trodar but the oldest elder was now refusing to say another word. And seeing Jack accept their god’s most powerful attack in search of a peaceful resolution also forced the elders to hold their tongues. It was hard to argue when Jack showed his mettle and determination, and how shockingly easy it was for Lyrun to abandon Korten after all.

 

Chapter 585

"If you want to see more elves become gods, then you should choose wisely."

Those words were spoken proudly along with a firm glare, but only loud enough for the elders and Jack to hear. The elven elders were proud to hear their god use such an argument. However, both Gwendon and the oldest elder were taken aback upon hearing Lyrun’s logic.

Unlike the elders, the elven chief had contact with Lyrun and was privy to some information that would be startling to others. One such fact was about the ascent of new gods and how elves weren’t allowed to raise any more gods. It was just a rule that the former holy gods always had that applied to all races, including dragons. No matter who it was, no one was allowed to ascend without Halmut specifically allowing it on a case by case basis.

For Gwendon and his father, the previous elven chief, Lyrun’s words weren’t an argument to remain on Halmut’s side. Such words supported Jack’s side... But why would Lyrun want that, they wondered?

Lyrun repeated himself, "If you want to see more elves become gods, then you should choose wisely. Otherwise, the elven race may come to an end in the future."

Some of the elders began to speak up but Lyrun and Jack were oblivious to them. There was only one person they wanted to hear from and he was carefully pondering how to phrase his reply.

"Say it... Son."

Gwendon glanced at the side, noticing his Father’s fragile smile. He then looked to Jack and Lyrun proudly before bowing formally. "In that case, Korten chooses to represent Trodar and the Leisure Guild!"

The voice of the elven chief filled the surrounding areas, leaving the entire city speechless.

"Are you sure about this?" asked Lyrun, staring fiercely at Gwendon.

"Yes," Gwendon firmly replied.

"Then, shall we fight?" stepping back into the conversation, Jack raised an eyebrow and asked.

Lyrun’s lip quivered as he redirected all of his anger toward Jack. "You... How dare you deceive my people?!"

"Blame halmut for its bad management, not me!" shouted Jack, defending himself and Kortenb without fear. "What have you done for them in the past five hundred years? The Leisure Gods get blamed for disappearing but you and your fellow legendary gods did the same thing after the war! You did little to nothing to help your people recoup while you demanded their absolute loyalty, to even ask them to die for your cause. I can offer them trade and a great boost in their economy as well as protection and security. Can you match that offer?"

"All you do is spout lies!"

"Then what does Halmut spread apart from glorified rumors and twisted truths?" refuted Jack. "At least I make my true motives known to the people instead of hiding them behind a false smile."

Getting nowhere with a verbal dispute, Lyrun began to climb the sky once again. "Come. You promised a fair challenge, so accept it now!"

"At least you care enough to keep the city out of range..." Jack sighed loudly, sharing their banter with the entire city as he rose up to join Lyrun high above the city. "How do you want to do this?"

"Well, how about..." Suddenly, Lyrun paused his speaking and jolted around. The Elf God held up his staff in defense, finding an invisible attack knocking into his staff. "You’re more impatient than I assumed you would be... Mind showing me a good time?!"

Pushing back with both hands, Lyrun used his staff to force the second Jack backward and then zapped it with lightning. The image of Jack became visible before it faded back out of everyone’s vision. Then, Lyrun spun around and hurled thundering Javelins to the true Jack not far away.

"Not bad!" Jack laughed, activating all his bloodlines to prove his might to the people watching from a distance. The hero evaded the javelins like child’s play, showing off his evasive abilities.

"Tell you what..." Lyrun’s voice echoed, making sure that all Estonya citizens could hear him clearly, "We both know that you can’t break through my defenses but I’ve never seen your defenses tested. Defend yourself against my strongest attack without evading and I’ll leave."

"What? Are you scared to lose?"

"I scared to see my people involved between a battle of gods."

"Fair... Then I accept your challenge! If it keeps them safe, then I’ll take your attack head-on!" shouted Jack.

While the people became more eager than ever to witness this fight and understand their chief’s decision, Jack and Lyrun casually backed away to create a fifty-meter gap between them. Holy light fell upon Lyrun, gathering and intensifying atop his staff. Lightning crackled as it started to wrap around the holy light, intensifying the attack.

"You won’t let this fall on my people?"

Jack replied with a proud nod, "They’ve chosen correctly, so how could I dare not uphold my promise of their security and prosperity?!"

"Then show me how you defend yourself!" Lyrun shouted.

The intense light around Lyrun’s staff exploded forward and rushed toward Jack without mercy. It instantly enveloped Jack entirely, surrounding Jack in pure, blinding holy light that was filled with absurd amounts of static electricity. The crackle of lighting intermingled with the sound of the air sizzling, as it that concentrated holy light was being tightly focused by the world’s largest magnifying glass.

Everyone was in awe. Everyone was either in shock of how powerful that attack was or how Jack willingly accepted to take the attack head-on.

Gwendon remained with the elven elders, watching the fight closely and trying to understand what was going on right now. The elven elders had continued trying to convince Gwendon against joining Trodar but the oldest elder was now refusing to say another word. And seeing Jack accept their god’s most powerful attack in search of a peaceful resolution also forced the elders to hold their tongues. It was hard to argue when Jack showed his mettle and determination, and how shockingly easy it was for Lyrun to abandon Korten after all.

Chapter 586

A few seconds passed but the attack didn’t die down.

"I’m not done!" shouted Lyrun. "If you want Korten, then take everything I have!"

The beam of light suddenly doubled in size and the sheer amount of electricity become strong enough to be its own attack. Bolts of lightning swam through the holy light like lightning serpents searching for prey within the light.

Another few seconds passed while the spectators were stunned by the power of Lyrun’s attack. Finally, it started to die down.

As the attack cleared, Jack started to become more visible again. He stood proudly with his chest puffed out and his arms by his side. There were a few minor burn marks on his body and his hair stood on end due to static electricity but Jack remained unmoved by the attack.

"That was good... much better than I was expecting!" Jack shouted in praise.

"Coming from you, I guess that means something..." sighed Lyrun, forced to admit the potency of Jack’s defense.

Jack’s smile was proudly shown for all as he shouted, "Thank you, Lyrun! Thanks for not complaining too much about losing Korten. You can be sure that I’ll take care of your people!"

Squinting, Lyrun scoffed and pulled out a holy amulet. Within the next second, Lyrun was swallowed up by a descending ray of holy light and carried away. Jack was left alone in the sky for the city to either admire or question. Either way, no one would be able to argue about Jack’s ability to defend the nation.

After taking a few deep breaths and using a few healing spells, Jack returned to the ground. "So, Gwendon, do you regret it?"

"... No..." The elven chief sighed, "No... I don’t think I do."

"Good, then we’re glad to have you in Trodar. Remember, Trodar is only a banner so you’ll remain as the independent nation of Korten. All we ask is for you to create a council that will meet with the other national councils of Trodar to help us all rule, govern, and protect our separate states," explained Jack. "And I made sure to bring someone to help clear any questions about your integration into Trodar."

Jack waved his arm to the side, creating a spatial rift for the first time since he was in-game. "Allow me to introduce Grangor, the chief of the greis elves and someone I would hope is selected to Korten’s new council."

As the aging, grey-skinned elf stepped through the rift, Gwendon and the elders were floored at the sight. Gwendon asked, "Is he... really a greis elf? We assumed that nearly all had passed... We knew that you had found a few survivors, but you found a tribe of them?"

Grangor chuckled and introduced himself with a bow of the head, "I may only be lv. 71, but I can assure you that I have plenty of experience leading my people."

"Our people."

"Hmm?" Grangor was caught off guard by Gwendon’s sudden statement.

"Our people... You and your tribe are our people as well. That’s something that Eedaj taught me," stated Gwendon, surprising Jack along with the others. "Should you all wish, we would gladly accept you into Estonya or another part of Korten should you not want to remain in the city with us."

"I’ve heard all about what happened but I find no fault on you," replied Grangor. "Verbal disputes happen among siblings, so how could they not emerge among a long-surviving people? If Estonya will have us, the greis elves will gladly relocate and join you to bolster our strengths and reconnect as a people."

Jack added, "Grangor will answer any questions you have regarding the rules of Trodar but I’m sure you’ll be fine. I’ll be taking my leave for now but I’ll bring the rest of greis elves in a couple of hours."

"We’ll make sure some dwellings are prepared for them," Gwendon stated with a reply.

"I look forward to seeing Korten grow... But this does mean Korten will now be accepting visitors from the other nations of Trodar. You’re alright with--"

"As you said, Trodar will offer protection and economic growth. To receive that growth will help us return to our previous status as a global superpower," reasoned Gwendon. "Isn’t that what you would want, elders?"

The elven elders were speechless for a moment, but one spoke up with a bow, "We’ll gladly accept guests, but not for free."

"Thank you, Father."

Jack stated, "There will be no travel or entry fees between the nations of Trodar but of course you can charge for hotels, inns, merchandise, and any other commercial goods or resources. We only seek to have the nations on an equal playing ground. And due to you taking the risk of stepping away from Halmut’s cause, allow the Leisure Guild to throw the entire city a banquet after we build our new guild branch in Estonya, along with its own teleportation circle for guild and Korten business alike."

Hearing that, Gwendon bowed to Jack, followed by his father and then the other elders present.

"No need to bow. Take some time and get to know Grangor. You don’t have much time to announce these changes to your people," laughed Jack, teleporting away in a flash of purple light.

"So, Grangor, are you ready to meet our people?" Gwendon asked with a chuckle.

Grangor laughed as well, "So long as they don’t laugh at me for too long then I’m looking forward to it."

As Gwendon and Grangor walked away, hurrying toward the city center to make some announcements, the elders turned to their leader. One elder asked, "Chief, are you sure we should--"

"I’m no chief..." stated the aging elf, chuckling under his breath. "Not anymore... Gwendon will do fine and I’m sure everyone will be able to adjust."

"But... this is beyond what should--"

"Times change, I guess..." The old man took in a deep breath and whispered to the heavens, "I guess you finally found a way out... Good luck, Lyrun..."

The old man then broke out in hysterical laughter and shouted, "Let’s join Gwendon for the announcements! With us supporting his decisions, the people will integrate faster and will be glad to know that anyone strong enough and able to grow stronger will be allowed to become gods!"

"WHAT?!" The elders were flabbergasted, left behind as the old elf ran to catch up with his son. "Wait! We’re coming too!"

Chapter 587

As purple light dispersed through the room, Jack was left standing in front of a large conference table.

"It’s about time, Jack! I don’t want to wait any longer!"

"Calm down, Hadurt. Everyone’s had to wait, so you--"

"I can finally become a god and you want me to wait?! What’s wrong with you?!" Hadurt howled.

Jack sighed, "We’ll handle your blessing at the end of this discussion like we will for everyone else. Now... You’re probably wondering why I’ve gathered you all here today."

"Not really--"

"Quiet, Hadurt! It’s my turn to speak!" shouted Jack, sad to have the impatient demon ruin the moment. "Either way, it’s been a while since we gathered as guild leaders, gods, and party members, as well as some new additions that have tagged along for the ride."

Jack paused and took in the view of the room, glad to have people from Reinolt to Aazoon to Trodar all gathered for a meeting, for anyone with a competent level and a close relationship with Jack. Seeing Wilheim with his son standing beside Tridon and the young nobles from Zuran made Jack smile, offering the guild more leadership at a variety of levels.

"I’ve gathered you all here to tell you about the truth of Kartonia. This knowledge will feel overwhelming so I won’t go into too much detail at the moment. But first, let me announce that Korten has agreed to join Trodar."

"What?!" Eedaj was the first to shout, followed by most everyone in the room. Eedaj continued, "How?! How could you possibly get them to secede so quickly?!"

"Thanks to Lyrun’s help, that’s how," replied Jack. "Grangor is already there and Gwendon agreed to allow all greis elves to live in Estonya as well. I’m sure Gwendon would proudly introduce you to the city as well."

"That..."

"He’s just excited, that’s all," added Jin, slapping Eedaj’s back with a chuckle. "What’s this about Kartonia’s purpose? You make it sound like we’ve all been missing out on something."

"Well.. you have been missing out..." Jack shrugged, surprising everyone with his bluntness. "First and foremost, you should all know that Kartonia is only a single planet among thousands and thousands with sentient life. And Daruun is in charge of more planets than we can count."

"Okay, but what does that mean for us?" Jin asked, sensing that Jack was about to get to the good part.

"To clarify for those that don’t know, Daruun, the God of Fate, is the creator of Kartonia. He did so to find and raise powerful experts." While those from Reinolt and Aazoon were floored by that information, Jack continued, "Us gods of Kartonia would be called cosmicians according to the rules of the void."

"The... void?" Lunara blinked in thought, as did many.

"The void is the vast, empty space that exists between the countless planets," explained Jack. "Cosmicians are beings that can wield cosmic energy, the same energy that we begin to use after becoming gods. But we’re at the bottom of the ranks, as one-star cosmicians. To earn the rank of a two-star cosmician, we’ll have to surpass lv. 99."

"Surpass lv. 99?!" Guuro shouted. "But that’s already so difficult and it’s only to become one rank higher?!"

"Like I said earlier, Daruun rules over countless planets and he created Kartonia as a means to raise aids or possibly a future partner to help him rule." Taking a moment to sigh, Jack added, "I’ve accepted the challenge to become Daruun’s official partner. It means that soon, after I pass lv. 99, I’ll be leaving the planet to travel and grow stronger.

"I’m telling you all this because I think some of you would also be interested to know that there’s more out there besides Kartonia, and that we can grow far stronger than we believed previously."

"Can I become an aid?!" Jin immediately stood up and raised his arm with eagerness to tag along.

"I’m not going to stop you or--"

"Don’t count out your mother and father!" Lunara shouted.

Smiling, Jack chuckled, "I could never count you two out. Actually, Dad already knows about this, otherwise, I’d wait for his return to talk about this over. Anyone that wants to tag along and grow stronger is welcome, whether they’re already a god or will soon become one. There’s no limit to how many people are allowed to travel and grow beyond Kartonia. And Daruun has offered to help anyone that joins our cause as well if that wasn’t obvious."

"Jack... How strong is Daruun?"

Looking back to Jin, Jack smiled and shook his head. "I know but you’re not ready to handle that. After you’re strong enough to leave Kartonia, I’m sure he’ll tell you more specifics about everything. For now, just know that he’s far stronger than any two-star or three-star cosmician."

"Umm... May I speak?"

"Of course, Wilheim. Go right ahead," responded Jack.

The king sighed and calmed himself before asking, "Why are you telling us this? We’re new to Trodar and have nothing to offer that these gods can already surpass tenfold. Then--"

"That doesn’t matter," stated Jack. "If you have the will and determination, then we’ll help anyone worthy to become a god and eventually travel outside of Kartonia should they choose to. I thought that you and the other newer faces shared that will and determination, so I wanted you to know that the opportunity exists. Don’t believe that you can never become a god. Train hard enough and you can surpass everything that we gods can currently fathom."

"Thank you, Jack!" Wilheim and Willim both bowed as the king’s eyes were slightly watery. He was astounded to learn that his fear of personal limitations could be conquered.

"Count me in!"

"Me too."

Flint shouted and smiled wide while Tarnel tried to keep Flint from going crazy out of excitement. Tridon was silent, but his eager eyes spoke volumes to how excited he truly was.

Looking to those that had already ascended, Jack found a few with unwilling eyes and sighed.

Chapter 588

"Also, you don’t have to leave and take on that challenge if you don’t want to. You’re welcome to remain here and help manage Kartonia instead."

Guuro shouted, "Good! Then that’s what I’ll do. I’m willing to remain behind and manage things here. It is my specialty, after all."

"And he’s too chicken to search for a fight and grow stronger," Dragas laughed, delivering a verbal jab. At the same time, she grabbed Moranti’s hand from under the table. "I’d be willing to go in a group or with someone else but not alone."

"I’ll go. I want to meet my greatest ancestor..."

"Dominus?"

Smiling, Moranti nodded to Jack. "I’m sure I’ll meet him someday. And if possible, I’d like to work and train under him. Daruun said that Dominus is stronger than him, so I can’t imagine how powerful such a dragon would be..."

"Knowing you, you might meet him sooner than you expect," laughed Jack. Looking around the room, Jack added, "You don’t need to decide now. You can decide later or change your mind however you like. But for now, can those that are currently interested raised their hand?"

A rush of hands shot to the sky, many at high speeds. Jack took a moment to count them all but it was easier to count the hands of those uninterested. Guuro remained firm about staying behind, joined by Lorwynn and Choron. Everyone else showed an emphatic interest in journeying beyond Kartontia.

"Mind if I ask why you’re staying behind?" asked Jack, glancing at the two other uninterested parties.

Choron answered first, "I wouldn’t mind, but I’d prefer to consider that after Skaryn returns. Then--"

"Know that Skaryn will most definitely be journeying through the void. He may be joining me as one of Daruun’s personal aides, even," stated Jack, getting the Ninja God to smile.

"Then I’m all in!"

Lorwyn spoke next, "I have a similar request... I’d like to travel with my former master if that’s possible. Earlier, it sounded like you’ve begun to walk with him. Does that mean he’ll be joining us?"

"I’m not sure exactly when, but Lyrun and a couple of his companions will eventually be joining us," stated Jack.

Glad to hear that, Lorwynn sighed, "Then I’d like to rethink this after asking Lyrun to travel with me."

"Jack, since you’re becoming Daruun’s partner, won’t you need an aide as well?"

Somewhat expecting such a response, Jack chuckled, "I haven’t thought much about it, but I wouldn’t be opposed to the idea."

"Would you have me?" asked Hadurt.

"I thought you hated being bossed around?"

"I hate being a tool. But I’ve already grown accustomed to following orders, so long as I respect the person calling the shots. For you, I wouldn’t mind at all. I think I’d enjoy it, actually... Following you around and helping you face countless foes to grow stronger... That’s the kind of life I’d enjoy most!" exclaimed Hadurt, eager to get a yes.

"I’m fine with that," stated Jack, getting the foxy demon to howl with excitement.

"Don’t forget us!" shouted Rydel. "How can you ignore your greatest teammates?!"

"I just figured you’re coming either way." Jack shrugged and smiled back to his long-time party members. "My wives will be training with Daruun and I’m sure you’re welcome to join them. You can never have a shortage of small, elite teams to get any job done. Of course, you’ll be seeing me pretty often as well."

"And me? I thought you said you wouldn’t forget your parents?" joked Lunara.

"You and Lina may want to train with Daruun as well. Dad and I will be busy with a lot of things, some that I’m sure Dad wouldn’t want you facing," Jack reasoned. "Sorry, Mom..."

"I get it... But don’t forget about us!"

"Who knows, maybe Daruun can help you two have another child. Then--"

"REALLY?!" Lunara stood up and rushed to grab Jack by the shoulders. "He can do that?!"

Jack chuckled nervously, "For you and Sterfen, I’m sure he can make something happen."

"Jack, can I ask you something?" Kori cut in as Lunara backed away to imagine having another child and raising it herself. The Fox God glanced at his son and asked Jack, "Would you mind if Bowzer and I spend some time traveling together? I think--"

"I couldn’t agree more," stated Jack. "I think it’s best for both of you, but we’ll still keep in touch in case you need help with something."

"Thank you, Jack!" Kori threw his lone arm around Jack, catching the hero off guard with a tender embrace. "Don’t worry! We’ll be safe and we’ll make sure to return to Daruun and everyone after a while."

"Don’t mention it! I’m sure Bowzer is looking forward to it, right?"

"Yeah! I can finally travel with my dad! Thanks, Jack!" the younger fox god smiled and darted toward his long-time partner with his tongue flapping out of his mouth.

"No licking!" Jack stepped back and pushed Kori into Bowzer in defense. "You two can talk that over. I’ll mention this to Phoro and Dragov after this."

"And what about me?"

Jack looked to see Karronteel walking to the front of the room, but someone else answered first, "Son, you’ll be coming with us!"

"Son..." Karronteel turned around, startled to believe what he heard.

Most everyone put a pause on their excitement to glance at Moranti and then at Dragas. The Dryad Goddess then continued, "What’s wrong? Am I so repulsive that you refuse to have me as a mother?"

"N-no... I just--"

"Well..." Moranti chimed in with a nervous chuckle. "Dragas, we never--"

"What, am I wrong? I could’ve sworn that you would be elated to marry me... Maybe--"

"Dragas, it’s not that. It’s the situation... We haven’t clarified this or even talked about--"

"Was I wrong?" Dragas repeated. "You know what I’m after, and it’s not some fling. Even if I seem easy, that’s exclusive to you. Unless you’d rather not continue our--"

"Dragas, don’t be like that."

"But I--"

To shut her up and keep the others from getting any more involved in their personal matters, Moranti pressed his lips to hers until she gave up. He then added, "Karronteel, I am your father and she may become your mother. Would you like to journey with us and search for the man that our blood was created from?"

"That... Of course!"

While that small family was still figuring things out, most everyone either returned to their previous excitement or was chuckling in amazement at how Moranti got the boisterous seductress to quiet down. However, Jack stepped out of the room with a contact crystal in hand.

 

Chapter 589

"Hello... Jack?"

"I’m here!" replied the hero. "Sorry, we were finishing up our conference and I had to step out before responding."

"Don’t worry, you’re fine. I’m glad we managed to connect our crystals during all of that," Lyrun laughed. The Elf God let loose a long sigh as he looked about his room. It was grandiose and luxurious yet it felt more like a prison with each passing day.

"Thanks for shielding me from your attack. It was much more powerful than I expected," Jack chuckled.

Lyrun nodded. "Don’t think anything of it. Considering our agreement, it was the best course of action. It was your idea to use a blinding attack which would allow me to shield you without anyone noticing."

"So, now that the first phase of the plan is complete, are you ready for phase two or will you need some more time?"

"Perchet will be the one to decide when the best time arrives. On his go, we’ll begin the next step," stated Lyrun. "Again, allow me to thank you, Jack, for taking on Korten in the midst of all this."

"Why wouldn’t I? I’ve wanted that from the start, so--"

"But you should know that Halmut won’t take this lightly. He’ll act out in some way after losing his largest military force," added Lyrun. "He has dragons which can overpower the elven armies, but they can’t outnumber the elves. And the elves were blindly loyal at times, something that the arrogant dragons will never be."

"I understand, but I wonder how he’ll act out. Let me know as soon as you can."

"Of course--"

"LYRUN!!!" Fists pounded on the door and slightly muffled shouts rang out. "Lyrun, let me in now!"

"I’ll inform you immediately. I’ll be off now."

Lyrun immediately took in a deep breath, ignoring the rowdy knocks and shouts for a moment. He canceled his silence spell and casually walked to the door, plastering a smug frown on his face. The Elf God opened the door a crack and asked, "What is it, Tralbok?"

"How dare you leave the chateau!" Tralbok shouted, pushing the door open and stepping into the room. "Have you any idea of what could’ve happened? You could’ve--"

"I had to defend my territory. I would never surrender the fate of my people without a fight."

"Then at least win the fight! You call you pitiful effort to stop Jack a fight?!" Tralbok let his mocking laughter echo throughout the room, shaking his head. "As one of the highest-ranked gods, we expected more from you!"

"And who gave you permission to chew me out?" asked Lyrun, calmly frowning. "Last time I checked, we’re at the same level. Though I don’t outrank you, my tenure with Halmut is second to none. You have no right to harp on the way I handle my business."

"Then--"

"The elves are my people. If they choose to side with Trodar then I won’t force them to reconsider through violence. Given time, they’ll soon learn how critical their mistake was, but that doesn’t mean I want to see them dead."

"Now, they’re our enemy," stated Tralbok. "If they challenge us and our goals, then what will you do? Will you hold back? Or will you slaughter them?"

Lifting an eyebrow, Lyrun spat, "I have no reason to entertain your aggressive behavior."

"Then answer the question!" Tralbok barked.

"I’ll face any enemy that stands against us. Though Korten is my people and they chose to not follow us, I won’t kill them in cold blood. But if and when they act out, then I won’t be against us using force to put them down. Does that satisfy your corrupt sense of justice?"

Scoffing, Tralbok shook his head, "Just barely... You still should’ve killed Jack while you had the chance."

"I tried... I have to give him props, at least. I can now understand how Jack managed to face Halmut without dying too quickly... How is Halmut?" Lyrun asked, showing off the concern in his voice.

"We still have no clue. He’s yet to open his chambers to anyone, but I’ll try again and report your failure. Someone has to..."

"Then let me thank you, Tralbok." Lyrun bowed his head briefly, accentuating his sarcastic tone. "Then I’ll let you go so you can handle your business elsewhere."

"Sure..."

Tralbok turned to leave, not looking back at all. He didn’t care about Lyrun or Lyrun’s reputation. To Tralbok, Lyrun was the greatest hurdle to clear in order to become Halmut’s right-hand man.

"Good, the sourpuss is leaving. For a moment, I thought our drinking session would be ruined!"

When Tralbok reached the wide-open door, he frowned. "Oosam, don’t be like that."

"Why not? You’re the greatest brown-noser in all Kartonia and only care about ruining the lives of others for your own gain." Pushing the door open wider, and pointing outside the room, Oosam added, "Here, allow my useless self to hold the door open for the great and powerful God of Time."

Used to Oosam’s antics, Tralbok ignored him and left with haste.

While Oosam closed the door behind him, Lyrun shook his head and asked, "Can anyone say such things to him or does he only let you?"

"It would take a long time but he gets accustomed to it eventually," chuckled Oosam.

Recasting silence, Lyrun stated, "Well, we may not have that much time left... Either we fail and die or we succeed and are free."

"How exciting!" Oosam threw himself across one of Lyrun’s many seats, selecting to spread across an entire couch. "So you managed to connect your crystals?"

Lyrun nodded. "And after Halmut’s response to losing Korten, we’ll need to be ready at a moment’s notice. There’s no changing course now, so we’ll have to give it our all."

"Why worry so much? So long as we do our best with the things in our control, the odds can be in our favor. With some luck, then we’ll manage to escape the contracts with our lives intact. No matter what happens, I’ve resigned myself to the outcome and am ready for phase two."

"Good... I have a feeling it may become more difficult than we anticipated..."

Chapter 590

With the brief conversation over, Jack stepped back into the conference room to find everyone either celebrating their future growth or feasting on the food across the table.

"How’d it go?"

Jack looked to the side, finding Maura with a smile. "It went well. But we’ll need to be on edge for now. Halmut will respond, probably sooner than later. For now...

"Everyone! I have one last thing to say!"

"You didn’t forget after all!" Hadurt howled, hurrying to Jack without fail. "I’m ready when you are!"

"We still need to kill a god for you, but..." Jack still had Halmut’s imminent response in mind, so he laughed, "that shouldn’t take long. We’ll have you enter godhood in no time. As for everyone else here, we need to redo our pacts so that I’m not stealing all of your EXP."

One by one, the many gods and others present stepped up to Jack and formed a line.

First was Hadurt, who couldn’t wait any longer to become Jack’s chosen demigod. Next was Jin, who asked, "you didn’t forget about me, right?"

"I--"

"Go for it, Jack," Duorda’s voice came from across the room. While lounging on the comfortable cushions, Duorda explained, "After aiding my ascension, you can then help multiple people at once. It’s something that Daruun put in the god system to keep gods from spreading themselves too thin at first. The more people you help, then the less time they have to ascend. But given the circumstances, that’s not an issue right now."

"Then--"

"Then help me too!" shouted Jin, not giving Jack a choice. "I’m ready now!"

Jack sighed and gave in. Placing his hand on Jin’s shoulder, Jack planted a morsel of his energy inside of Jin. He could feel how it was slightly weaker than the energy planted in Hadurt. Also, Jack could feel his connection with Hadurt weaker to a minute degree.

"Finally!"

"What can we do now?" asked Haldurt, trying his best to search for any new affinities.

"I... I’m not sure. Duorda, do you know?" asked Jack.

"Why would I know? You’re the one giving them the blessing?!"

"But you’ve already experienced it, so haven’t you noticed anything different?"

Sighing and leaning back into his seat, Duorda replied. "I’ve noticed a few things... For starters, I have way more mana than I should for an early one-star."

"But that’s from the pact..." argued Jack.

"Oh... I forgot about that..." the skeleton sighed. "Then I’m not sure what’s from the pact and what’s from the blessing."

"What other effects do you notice?" asked Jin, joining the investigation.

Shrugging, Duorda replied, "A lot of my natural skills have gotten much stronger."

"That’s from the pact!" shouted Hadurt. "What else?"

"Ummm... Well... Then I’m not sure what Jack’s blessing does..." stated Duorda.

"Wait..."

Hearing Jin, both Jack and Hadurt turned their attention to him. Then, the others in the room began to focus on his as well.

Jin stood there silently, admiring his arms. He carefully inspected the biceps, then the triceps. Taking a moment to feel his own hands, Jin was in awe of how perfect his illusory arms now were. There was no ethereal energy around them and no appearance of them being false, yet they were still able to pass through each other without effort like before.

"Jin... were your extra arms always like that?" asked Jack.

Shaking his head, Jin replied, "No... I never had enough mana to do this before..."

Four more arms took shape, appearing to be just as real and perfect as the rest. It was surreal for many witnessing this but Jin was the most focused of all spectators. He struggled to believe how real they felt, more so than how real they appeared.

"Mana?" Hearing Jin mention his former lack of mana, Hadurt peaked at his own mana supply. Instantly, Hadurt burst into roaring, maniacal laughter! "It was worth the wait! Completely worth it!"

"What is it?" Jack asked.

"I have more mana than ever!" shouted Hadurt, struggling to smile any wider.

Jin added, "And it replenishes faster too... This is incredible!"

"See, I told you!" berated Duorda, shaking his head and sighing in relief.

"Really? Then I need to try something!" An explosion of flames poured over Hadurt, startling Jack completely.

"He can do it too?!"

"We helped him, but we’ve never seen his flames become black..." Kori replied with a smile.

Just as Hadurt was getting more excited than ever, a plume of freezing water rocketed into him and the surrounding furniture that had caught fire.

Lunara clicked her tongue and stated, "I get it, you’re excited. But don’t destroy the conference room! Save that for outside!"

"Sorry..." Hadurt chuckled, not disgraced at all by his antics. He was too excited to feel shame at the moment.

"Duorda," Jack looked back to his new assistant and asked, "how much much extra mana do you think you have?"

"Mana is cosmic energy, right? Hmm... I’d guess that it’s been multiplied a few times. I’ve got energy that can rival an average one-star and even though I’m just an early one-star for now. I may even rival a few of the weaker late one-stars."

"What do you mean?"

"Each star class is divided into three to make gauging people easier. Those that ascend recently are early one-stars. After more training and growth early one-stars become an average one-star and eventually a late one-star before ascending to the two-star class," explained Duorda.

"So, even though you just ascended, you’ve got enough energy to compete with more experienced one-stars?"

"Yeah... Didn’t Daruun tell you that’s what would happen after you ascended?" Duorda reasoned.

"Yeah... but I didn’t expect it from them..." Jack looked back to Hadurt and Jin, who were still basking in the glory of their newly gained mana supplies and skills. Following his assumed train of thought, Jack mentioned, "I think my blessing gives you the full strength of my passive skills, not just half of the strength..."

"So that’s how you beat me!" Duorda laughed heartily. "With this much energy, you deserved to win by default!"

"What about us? Is there no way for us to get that too?"

Jack turned his attention to the line of people waiting to have their pacts altered. Only now they were eyeing Jack like starving cannibals in search of fresh meat.