Ch. 611..620

Chapter 611

CLAP!

A single clap was heard amidst the blinding light. It was quiet and calm yet everyone in Estonya heard it clearly as if they themselves had clapped. The many combatants, both on the ground and in the air, were able to hear it perfectly as well despite the chaotic battle that they were currently apart of.

The light lasted only a couple of seconds yet everyone had the sensation that it lasted for an hour. It was unexplainable.

When the light faded, everyone finally noticed something. They were no longer able to move. The dozens of dragons, beasts, and experts on the ground were frozen in place, even standing in the air mid-jump. Even the gods were locked in place. It felt as if their bodies were completely relaxed and nonresponsive, no longer allowing them to move in any way or control any energy whatsoever. All mouths had closed during the flash of light and were also nonresponsive.

Only people’s eyes were functioning, staring intently at the parted heavens with doubt, shock, and awe.

A single figure stood there. It was a man. His pure white clothes put the clouds to shame and his kind smile was warmer than the morning sun in all its glory without the cloud cover.

The city of Estonya was clueless about the man’s identity but their curiosity was stolen without reprieve. While the dragons were also confused about the man, many of those from the Leisure Guild remembered the man, some more vividly than others. The gods were especially shaken, unaware of what was going on and far more shocked than the mortals. The legendary gods were dumbfounded and left wanting to know more as the leisure gods were both relieved and utterly perplexed as to what was taking place.

Jack was amongst the most confused, with his personal knowledge only leaving him more vulnerable to bafflement. He looked and wanted to sigh. Close enough to breathe on Tralbok’s neck, Jack was less than a moment away from claiming the God of Time’s life, possibly removing one of the most troublesome pawns in Halmut’s control.

But Jack took that prolonged moment of silence to look around, noticing how even the battle was.

Dragas was about to catch Choron and Guuro, imminently reviving them back at lv. 89. Eedaj was being strangled by Perchet, already bleeding from his nose and one eye as Eedaj’s reinforcements were about to act. Moranti was halfway through a trading blow with both Grixor and Torian, giving them a 2-for-1 trade in their favor. Sillo was about to be run through by Duorda’s black half. Tyres was gaining an advantage in his match against Jin and Kori, leaving the bleeding Hadurt on the ropes as he mounted his best defense against Alcahain. The two newly risen Quake Dragons were also about to lose their lives.

Though both sides were taking considerable damage, Jack couldn’t help but feel that his strategy was going to work out in the end. But now this?

"Sorry to interrupt... It’s finally time that I announce something to all of Kartonia, and to the gods of Kartonia specifically. As such, I’ll allow you to speak so long as you save your questions for an appropriate moment."

At that moment, all the gods regained control of their relaxed lips. One god instantly lashed out verbally, demanding, "DARUUN?! WHAT IS THE--"

"I said to wait for an appropriate moment, Tralbok." Daruun shook his head as Tralbok’s lips resealed themselves and left the God of Time unable to attempt speaking for the duration.

As his calm voice passed over everyone’s ears without being loud, Daruun continued to address the city of Estonya and the gods present, "Where was I? Oh, yes. I’m more glad than you can fathom to announce the unsealing of Glacier Keep!"

The words "Glacier Keep" echoed and reverberated through the air, keeping everyone’s focus and curiosity hostage.

Jack blinked, unsure of how to take the information. All other gods were baffled also. Only one god present was left without curiosity for the named location, Lunara, who’s mind went blank imagining the place.

"COME BACK, NOW!!!"

"Don’t worry, Halmut," Daruun added, shocking the legendary gods further. "Once my announcement is over, they’ll regain the ability to act for themselves and follow your orders. For now, I ask you not to distract them. I’d hate for you to interfere and force my visit to Olympic Chateau."

"..."

"Now that he’s being more cooperative, allow me to resume my explanation."

The unknowing leisure gods weren’t too surprised by Daruun’s ability to threaten Halmut, but witnessing that was more than they expected. As for the legendary gods, they didn’t know what to believe. Seeing Daruun listen in on Halmut’s order via contact crystal was enough to send them into shock. Adding their current status of uselessness to that made things beyond conceivable but understanding that the powerful and arrogant Halmut had shut up with a few words was even more so.

"One week. That is when Glacier Keep will be unsealed. Since there are people within both factions of gods that already know of Glacier Keep’s location, I’ve no reason to publicly share that with the world. But I will warn everyone of one thing. Only gods will find themselves capable of entering Glacier Keep."

Everyone’s heart skipped a beat. As Daruun paused again, the many deities took a moment to digest the meaning of that statement.

Throughout Kartonia, there were high-level dungeons for solo adventurers, small groups, or large-scale raids. But there had never been a place designated for only gods. Such a place would be a god’s paradise, in terms of EXP, the very thing that they had been lacking for millennia.

Jack was also racked with thought. He had never heard of Glacier Keep. But with Daruun announcing it, Jack assumed that it was yet another place created by Daruun, like Earthen Keep. Which led Jack to wonder...

"A dungeon for gods?" The hero mumbled to himself.

"Speak up, Jack," Daruun stated, getting everyone’s attention to turn to the young god.

Blinking, Jack asked loudly, "Is Glacier Keep a dungeon for gods?"

 

Chapter 612

"Is Glacier Keep a dungeon for gods?"

"That’s precisely what Glacier Keep is," Daruun answered with a smile. The man recognized as the God of Fate paused for a moment to let that sentence properly settle in the minds of the many gods listening. But Daruun quickly resumed his explanation, "The mysteries within Glacier Keep will remain as mysteries until you travel and uncover them. However, allow me to explain a few key details about the keep.

"First, know that Glacier Keep can accommodate dozens of gods. So don’t feel that there won’t be enough room for you all to participate in its opening. But I do have a suggestion. Though you all can enter Glacier Keep, it won’t be together. You must enter in groups no larger than four. There is no limit to the amount of groups that can enter but you’ve been warned."

As another pause hung in the air, Daruun chuckled, "Go ahead, Perchet. You’ve assumed correctly that I’m giving you a moment to think for yourselves and ask questions."

Nodding, Perchet spoke up in a fashion similar to Daruun, speaking for all to hear yet keeping his voice soft and gentle, "What would happen should we enter with more than four at a time?"

"That’s something I wouldn’t recommend at all, but anyone will be welcome to try it should they wish."

"How large is Glacier Keep?" asked Perchet, moving on. "For example, we know that Earthen Keep is ninety-nine floors deep and each floor is quite expansive in its own right."

"Hmm... I don’t think Earthen Keep is a fair comparison, at least not in terms of layout," Daruun mentioned.

"Then how would you describe the general layout, even if you can’t give us a detailed description of the dungeon design."

"Such great questions! You’re quite wise, Perchet. I regret that I failed to meet you before Halmut swayed you to sign his contract..." Daruun sighed, letting his casualness keep some of the legendary gods on the edge of their nerves. "I won’t give you any details of the countless rooms, puzzles, mazes, foes, and more within Glacier Keep. But I will warn you, this will be unlike anything that any of you have experienced prior to now. Be fully on guard and do your best to avoid death, as those who make it through will find themselves with more experience and treasures than you thought possible."

"Yes, Torian?" Blinking, Daruun smiled and gave the Thundering God a moment.

"Daruun... How are you doing all of this?"

"You mean leaving you all stationary? This is merely a protocol for giving an announcement mid-battle. I’m simply making sure that everyone is available to listen and ask their questions. I’m sure none of you want to give your current opponents a chance to attack, so this just makes things easier and removes that stress momentarily."

"But how are you doing this?" questioned Torian, raising his voice but keeping a calm, perplexed stare on his face.

"It’s simply because I can. To explain how would take too long and would distract from my announcement, so forgive me for not fulfilling your curiosity at the moment," stated Daruun. "But please feel free to ask your other question, for everyone else to hear also. Many are wondering the same thing."

Torian nodded and immediately asked, "Who are you, Daruun?"

"That depends." Daruun shrugged. "According to most of Kartonia’s history, I’m simply the God of Fate and the man who aided in the creation of the neutral faction of gods. But you and most gods weren’t born until my former reputation had already disappeared, which Halmut and Skaryn have told you nothing about. The only others who remember from that time would be Moranti, Lyrun, and Eedaj, although Lyrun has since passed. Would either of you two care to share my former reputation?"

"You’re the progenitor of the gods!"

All legendary gods instantly felt tension at the edges of their eyes. Instinctively, their eyelids ran out of space to contract and failed to open any wider.

Getting a nod from Daruun, Moranti continued, "You were the man who aided in Skaryn’s ascension, also aiding Halmut at the Skaryn’s request. Prior to aiding them, we have no history or record of your existence on Kartonia, which left the world to wonder if you come from Kartonia at all."

"That..." Torian flinched.

Hearing that was the last thing that the Thundering God didn’t know he wished to never learn. The other legendary gods felt similarly. None of them liked the thought of Daruun being more powerful than Halmut, which had already been hinted at by Halmut’s willingness to shut up. But now... Hearing that Daruun was a mysterious deity before Halmut or Skaryn had ascended was more than they wanted to believe.

Tralbok was especially furious. His inner rage was stockpiling but his lips failed to respond to any of his thoughts. And his inner desire to grow stronger at any cost immediately filled the God of Time with regret.

"What are you to this--"

"SHUT UP!!!"

"Halmut... I’ve warned you once and now a second time. A third interruption will result in the suspension of my announcement and my immediate visit to your precious hideout," Daruun stated, dropping his casual tone for the first time.

No energy leaked from Daruun and there were no hints of strength being shown by him. But all people listening to Daruun’s somewhat cold threat felt their spines tingle and straighten in response.

"Now then... Continue your question, Sillo. Have no fear of his barking."

Ignoring Daruun’s casual disrespect to Halmut, Sillo took a second to gather his breath and bolster some courage. "If you’re stronger than Halmut, then where do you come from and why haven’t you told us other gods of your true strength? I’m sure we all would’ve agreed to join you if we had known what you’re capable of."

"Oh, you have no idea of what I’m capable of. Nor does Halmut, though he’s slightly more aware than he lets on."

 

Chapter 613

Daruun ignored the startlement on the faces of the legendary gods and continued, "My manner of recruitment is different than that of Skaryn and Halmut. Frankly, some of you here now would’ve likely never been chosen by me."

Each of the legendary gods listening in was somewhat taken aback by that statement, unsure how to take it.

"What matters to me is not necessarily power or cunningness or even potential. If I was after pure power, I would’ve helped Halmut without Skaryn’s plea. If I were after cunningness, I would’ve hand-picked Tralbok to my side with his unique abilities."

The God of Time strained to sigh through his numb lips as that verbal dagger cut him deeply.

"And if I sought potential, would I have chosen Jin or Tyres?" reasoned Daruun, giving everyone a hint of his character. "As for my origin, just know that I’m not from Kartonia, nor do I reside here. I merely visit and pop in from time to time."

Returning to the topic at hand and leaving the legendary gods in suspense, Daruun asked, "Wasn’t there something else you wanted to ask? I believe there are a few others with that thought on their minds as well."

Nodding slowly, Sillo took another deep breath and paused his curiosity about Daruun’s past. "If you came before Halmut and Skaryn and have more power than them, why do you let them run rampant here?"

"Well, I can be considered an outsider here. Though I’m not from Kartonia, the title given to me by Kartonians is quite apt," explained Daruun. "The God of Fate. A title fitting of a man that seems to understand the world at large and keeps the broadest of views throughout Kartonia’s history, yet refuses to directly meddle in the affairs and fate of Kartonia’s inhabitants. Fitting, right?"

Sillo nodded but Daruun added, "Ask your true question already."

Caught off guard, Sillo swallowed some saliva. He nervously glanced at Duorda, who was still lunging forward with his black, bony blade but frozen in the air.

"Go ahead. Master Daruun should be able to answer any questions you might have," stated the skeleton, surprising Sillo and the other legendary gods within earshot.

"Are you able to heal my sister properly?!"

Glad to see Sillo gathering to courage to ask that question, Daruun nodded. "Yes, I have the means to properly revive your sister and heal the pain that was forced onto her. Thank you for having the courage to ask your question while Halmut is listening in. Though Halmut is too afraid to speak up now, I understand how he might react upon hearing your question against his leadership.

"As for what you’re thinking right now, you don’t need to speak up. I was just curious if you had the courage to speak up despite your situation," added Daruun with a warm smile and a chuckle.

Sillo nodded, keeping his thoughts to himself from that moment forward.

"We’re already helping your sister." Duorda’s whispering voice tickled Sillo’s ears and left him a bit startled, "Trust me and my former master."

At the same time, Daruun looked around. "Are there any more questions before I depart?"

"How strong are you, exactly?!"

Grixor’s shout refocused everyone’s wandering thoughts, even the leisure gods’ who didn’t fully understand the depth of Daruun’s strength.

Smiling and shaking his head, Daruun replied, "Stronger than you and everyone here combined. But Halmut already knows that, so it’s no secret. Anything else?"

Silence fell over the legendary gods as they were racked with regret.

"Why are you telling us all about this Glacier Keep?" Perchet’s calm question filled everyone’s minds with new doubt and curiosity. "Why not keep this information for only those that have pledged to your cause?"

"Because Glacier Keep was built for all gods of Kartonia, not only for those that have openly sided with me," replied Daruun. "Are you saying you don’t wish for a place to train and grow stronger as a god?"

"No, the opposite actually," Perchet responded with the shake of his head. "Forgive me for questioning your intentions."

"There’s no need for forgiveness. If one never questioned the intentions of others, such a person would be forever doomed to be a pawn and a tool in the hands of others all their life." Looking across all gazing eyes again, Daruun sighed, "For the record, I hold no contempt for any of you. I only hold contempt for those that willingly try to undermine my plans or intentions, right Halmut?"

That simple statement spoke volumes to the crowd of gods. The legendary gods present would’ve fallen from the sky in shock had they not been propped up by Daruun’s strange abilities.

"Anyway, what I’m trying to say is that I hold none of you responsible for the actions that you’ve done unwillingly or for any actions that you’ve committed due to your lack of knowledge but wouldn’t have committed had you known better," reasoned Daruun. "I wish you all the best of luck, especially as you venture the depths to reach Glacier Keep and face the challenges that Glacier Keep offers you.

"Oh! And one more thing..." Daruun showed a toothy grin and started laughing loudly. "I look forward to seeing who claims the treasures of Glacier Keep. Whoever can enter that chamber will be astounded by their discovery and reward!"

As that final sentence echoed through the air and left everyone unsettled or anxious to see Glacier Keep for themselves, another flash of light filled the entire horizon.

CLAP!

"COME BACK!!!"

Daruun’s reverberating, nonchalant clap was paired with Halmut’s furious orders via contact crystal.

By the time the light faded, all gods felt themselves regain control of their bodies. But they also discovered that half of the gods had already vanished amidst the bright light.

The leisure gods were left behind as the legendary gods utilized the light as a time of escape with their teleporting amulets linked to Olympic Chateau. The only forces left behind by the legendary gods were the dragons below that began to flee the moment they were able to move.

 

Chapter 614

However, apart from the dragons, there was one other person that wasted no time to jump back into action. The helmed swordsman sped up yet again. He vanished over and over, dealing critical death blows without a care for sharing EXP or leaving behind carcasses that were precious materials. All that mattered was that his precious preys were trying to flee.

The others below stepped into action as well, but they couldn’t keep up and were left with the slower, weaker dragons while Dragov and Phoro finally continued their paused ascension.

Targeting the speedy Storm Dragons first, the swordsman teleported to them and killed the strongest survivor. As the Storm Dragons split up, the swordsman ignored any dragon under lv. 75 and showed preference to the remaining dragons around lv. 80, though most had been killed already.

When the strongest surviving Storm Dragons were killed and stored away, the swordsman vanished again to target the magma dragons. He repeated his strategy, slaying a couple of dragons around lv. 80, placing their corpses in his storage, and then disappearing again for a time.

After another minute had passed, the swordsman reappeared on the original battlefield without his sword in hand.

Those that hadn’t stormed off to slay fleeing dragons were rushing to the aid of the many wounded on the ground below. Sure, the Leisure Guild managed to hold back the dragons and protect the ascending beasts, but it wasn’t without a cost.

But the helmed swordsman arrived just in time to witness history.

For the first time since the creation of Kartonia, beasts of earth and wind affinity evolved for a third time, apart from dragons. This was monumental news. It officially cemented the future bloodlines of those new gods as equivalent to the draconic races, just as Hell-flame Foxes and Nine-headed Glacier Hydra’s had down before.

Dragov unleashed a ground-shaking roar as his body and innate energy finished their transformations from mortal to divine. His already unfathomably large body had grown in length and width, gaining more legs and what seemed like a second layer of natural armor atop his earlier exoskeleton. Rather than shedding his old hide, Dragov’s body created a second layer of exoskeleton to cover the new gaps of his natural armor and offer twice the protection in vital at the same time. His rows and rows of teeth made Dragov the nightmare of any horror movie, turning his maw and throat into the most devastating meat grinder on the planet.

At the same time, Phoro rocketed out of Dragov’s mouth with glee. But no one saw the Minokawa exit the centipede’s mouth. People only noticed Phoro due to his roars and cries of excitement high in the sky. His speed had evolved again, letting him exit Dragov’s mouth and travel hundreds of meters without anyone on the ground being able to see him mid-flight. Phoro had grown again, becoming nearly ten meters tall with an even larger wingspan. The scales beneath his down had grown tougher and his talons were now sharp enough to rival Karronteel’s or Moranti’s. With even better eye-sight and more nimble agility, the stunts that Phoro could perform now far outclassed any wild flying he could imagine as a mortal.

But Phoro’s excitement suddenly stopped.

"Mom!"

The first-ever Minokawa God rushed to the ground below before anyone could think of blinking. All happiness and excitement had washed away from Phoro’s face. All that was left was grief. "Mom! What-- Who did this?!"

"Phoro..."

Gathered around the beaten and bloodied corpse of their Minokawa sovereign, the other surviving Minokawas were left speechless in Phoro’s presence. Apart from Phoro’s new intimidating form, they felt the natural strength of his fully evolved bloodline, which immediately dwarfed theirs as Phoro made not attempt to hide his bloodline strength during his pained shouts.

"Jack!" Phoro shouted, staring intently at the sky. "Help my Mom, please!"

All the Leisure Gods were gradually descending. None of them bothered chasing after the mortal dragons, keeping to their morals against the fighting mortals. Also, they knew that those below like Jin, Hadurt, Kori, and the swordsman wouldn’t allow the strongest mortal dragons to flee from death.

Jack, as well as the other gods, were focused on one thing, the strange timing of Daruun’s announcement and the content of Daruun’s announcement. But Phoro’s cry was more than enough to get Jack’s attention. After all, it was the first time that anyone had ever seen Phoro act so stressed and overwhelmed with emotion.

The gods rushed down the battlefield with some sorrow in their hearts, following Jack toward the center of it all.

"Jack, you’ve got to help! I know you can!" Phoro pled, not hiding the tears leaking from his powerful eyes.

One look was all it took. Jack could instantly answer Phoro. But everyone else also knew the answer, given the obvious state of the corpse.

Phara, the proud Minokawa Sovereign, rested in pieces against Phoro’s feathers. Her new armor was either punctured, torn apart, or missing. One of her wings was gone and nowhere to be found, most likely eaten by a dragon. The other wing was shredded and lacked all feathers and many chunks of flesh. Both legs were shattered and crippled while half of her talons were missing and the other half were broken. Her chest was gashed open in many locations, showing that she had been injured not only by the Storm Dragons in the sky but also the dragons down below that were trying to eat her already dead body. Half of Phara’s face was missing, having been gnawed off. If it weren’t for the golden tips of her feathers and her larger size, not even Phoro would’ve recognized her corpse.

"Phoro... I don’t think we can do anything..." Jack sighed.

"Try! Please..."

Dragas placed the bodies of Guuro and Choron on the ground before speaking up, "Phoro... As a master of holy and nature magics, I have to agree with Jack. She’s too far gone. We have no means of reviving her"

"No! NO!" cried Phoro, visibly shaking. "No... no..."

 

Chapter 615

Cheers suddenly sounded out from the distance, catching everyone’s attention. It was hard to understand what was being said but everyone could sense the joy and happiness in the cries of Estonya. The dome of protection had vanished moments before Daruun’s appearance due to Guuro’s passing, allowing everyone a view of the battle’s finale and the retreat of the Legendary gods’ forces.

Momentarily ignoring the cheers of the people, Jack and everyone took in the severe casualties of the battle. A new sense of appreciation came over Jack. His previous feelings against Daruun’s timing subsided as he realized how hectic things were for the many beasts they had brought to join the fight. Those protecting Dragov and Phoro only managed to do so because the many beasts from the storehouse kept the majority of dragons busy.

"I can revive her."

"REALLY?!" Phoro’s neck almost snapped as he looked toward Duorda. "Please, I’ll do anything!"

Duorda sighed as everyone’s attention shifted to him, "I can revive her, but that’s all. I can’t help her regrow her wing or her missing face. And given the cruelty of her broken legs and final wing, she’ll be crippled all her life. Is that how you want your mother to live?"

"Pl... No..."

"Then, maybe it’s best to hold a proper ceremony for her," suggested Duorda. "She fought valiantly and deserves the highest respect as a warrior. Right?"

"Yes..." The last surviving Minokawa elder struggled to speak. Blood had stained his silver and purple feathers, but so did the Minokawa’s tears. "She’s the reason I’m alive... And my weakness is the reason she’s not..."

"Father..." Phoro sniffled.

"Phara was the best of us and she deserves the utmost care upon her death," continued the elder. "The title of sovereign will be carried on by you, Phoro... That’s what she always wanted."

"But... But I..." Phoro shook his head, not wanting to face reality but understanding what needed to be done. "I’m a slacker! I’m nothing like her or you... I don’t deserve--"

"You’re our god! Phoro, you’ve achieved what our ancestors have desired since the birth of our race!" shouted the father. "Phara raised you well and taught you since birth. Your natural nimbleness surpasses my own and your fighting strength passed hers long ago. You are the only one fit to accept her now-vacant title as Minokawa Sovereign, whether you agree or not."

"I... I know..." Shaking his head, Phoro sighed, "It’s just... Accepting that is the same as admitting she’s gone..."

"She is gone, Phoro. But her legacy will continue in you. Had you been born a female, you would’ve shared names, even," reasoned the father. "I may have been against your leave in the past, but I don’t regret anything now, including your mother’s passing. Her sacrifice, along with the other elders’, kept the majority of our people alive at the cost of their own. Don’t disgrace that legacy now with indecision."

"Right... Thanks, Dad... I’m glad that at least you’re still here..."

As Phoro carefully laid his mother’s remains down and embraced his father, the other Minokawas were gathering their dead around their sovereign’s corpse. The other races did the same, bringing together all their dead in their own gatherings.

At the same time, Moranti and Karonteel were gathering the dragon corpses and separating them by race. They did so respectfully instead of piecing the carcasses apart for materials on the spot.

While the city was in jubilee, everyone on the battlefield was working together to care for the dead and wounded. Once Dragas revived Guuro and Choron, she, Guuro, and Eliza did all they could to help the medics and clerics of the Leisure Guild attend to the wounded or revive those that were able. Solemnity and respect were given through silence as everyone accepted the battle as a victory by default, which garnered more reflection than outright, overwhelming victory.

Three hours passed as the noon-day sun shown down on the cleaned-up battlefield. The blood remained splatted across the turned up dirt and patches of surviving grass but all corpses were neatly gathered and lined up, including those of the dragons. Then, each race performed their own rituals to respect the fallen. Some corpses were burned, some were pieced apart and eaten by their race’s survivors, and some were disposed of according to the abilities of their race.

What surprised Jack was Moranti’s and Karronteel’s respect for the fallen dragons. They had even asked for all stored dragon corpses to be laid out. It was a tall task to ask but they promised to return all corpses after the ceremony.

Unlike the other beasts that adjusted to the time of ancient heroes pillaging corpses for loot, leading to their varied burial ceremonies that disposed of the dead bodies, the Spectral Dragon died when they were at the pinnacle of power. None had dared such a thing, not until Halmut used the Sun Dragons to wipe them out and then proceed to massacre the weakened Sun Dragons as well.

Instead of destroying the bodies, Moranti and Karronteel took to their draconic forms, each reaching fifty meters in height. Then, they turned their claws ethereal and carefully reached into the dragon corpses one-by-one. After a couple of seconds with each body, both they pulled the heart of each dragon and laid it beside their respective corpse. This continued until the dozens of draconic corpses each had their hearts cleanly and surgically removed. The duo of Spectral Dragons gave a final bow to the bodies, not saying a word.

When they stood back up, Moranti turned to Jack and stated, "Now you can have them and do what you wish. Please allow us to keep and prepare a proper burial of their hearts later. We’d prefer to share that moment with their respective races after this war blows over."

"Of course." Jack nodded, touched at how compassionate Moranti was to their enemies’ dead bodies.

"They may be our foes, but they aren’t Halmut’s allies either," stated Moranti. "No one is Halmut’s ally, not even his own race. It wouldn’t surprise me if he ate his own child in order to strengthen his own bloodline strength."

Chapter 616

"Halmut!"

KNOCK! KNOCK!

"HALMUT!"

Grixor pounded on the door while Torian shouted, having long lost his patience with calling the Sun God by his preferred title.

"HALMUT! You owe us all answers!"

"Perhaps we should ask tomorrow. It seems that--"

"If Halmut had the gall to hide the truth of Daruun’s power from us, then he’d better give me a reason for his actions!" Torian roared. "If not, then I may consider my chances with Daruun and Jack. Clearly, they wouldn’t mind helping me start over from lv. 90."

"That’s--"

"If you go, Torian, then I go too."

"Are you--"

"Thank you, Grixor, but that should be your own decision," stated Torian. "I simply want an explanation. I don’t believe Halmut is stupid enough to get on Daruun’s bad side without reason. Before I do anything, I want to know that reason."

Nodding, Grixor replied, "But even if we left, would they welcome us that easily? After everything, I doubt we’d be able to join the others without unfavorable conditions... I want to know Halmut’s reasoning too."

With more fervor, Grixor pounded on the door, having now left a small imprint of his closed fist from hours of pounding. "Halmut! Share your reasoning with us! We aren’t going to let them monopolize the only divine dungeon, are we?"

To the surprise of the three gods at the door, a heavy knock came from the other side of the door.

"Gather everyone... I want Kylon and her Flood Dragons present as well..."

"Yes, your excellency!" Tralbok replied first with an instinctual bow, despite Halmut being unable to see him.

"We’ll make sure everyone’s there within five minutes. Don’t keep us waiting, Halmut."

"Torian... I told you long ago to address me as--"

"If you want to activate the contract, go ahead," stated the Thundering God. "Sure, I’ll lose my godhood and be expelled from the chateau, but I’m fast enough to get help before you kill me. And you need me and all of your strongest pawns."

A moment passed. The door finally cracked open and a giant draconic eye peered through the crack. "State the reason for your sudden growth of a spine."

"With me and Grixor at lv. 98, we’re your greatest assets. Do you want us contemplating switching sides?" asked Torian, raising an eyebrow in confidence. "We know you don’t. So why not let us be more than pawns. But that means you’d better inform us about the reality of our situation, including your true relationship with Daruun and his background."

"... Very well... That’s understandable, but show me the respect I deserve as the man that made you the god you are today," Halmut reasoned. "I’ll be in the conference room in five minutes. I begin my explanation then, whether everyone is present or not."

The door closed and resealed itself, leaving Torian and Grixor with smiles on their faces.

Tralbok, on the other hand, was internally furious. He had underestimated Halmut’s relationship with Grixor and Torian, believing that Lyrun was the only one that was well-trusted by Halmut. Also, Tralbok wasn’t a dragon, already putting himself at a disadvantage compared to the Thundering and Earthen Gods. Tralbok was the first to rush off and spread the word as he didn’t like seeing the smiles on Torian’s and Grixor’s faces.

When word spread that Halmut finally answered the door and had ordered a meeting, all gods within Olympic Chateau hurried to the conference room. Three minutes passed when Kylon and four other Flood Dragons arrived at the open-air pavilion via amulets. But they weren’t the last to arrive. At precisely the same moment that Halmut stepped into the conference room, Perchet entered from the opposite entrance and casually found his seat, one of the few that remained undamaged. The Nocturnal Dragon sighed and brushed his hand across the broken seat beside his, which was now empty.

Halmut wasted no time and was more serious than ever. "Before I explain some things, know that I’m entirely disappointed in you!"

Some knew this scolding was coming but soon all the new additions to the legendary gods felt Halmut’s wrathful, verbal lashings.

"To think that we, the legendary gods, wouldn’t be able to at least hold our own... I can’t believe this!" roared Halmut. "You had more deities on your side! You had higher-leveled deities on your side! You fought mortals! Yet you still failed to get anything done besides weaken our forces drastically and get outmaneuvered by a low-level, upstart god!

"Apart from Perchet, did any of you successfully kill one person?!"

"I did, your excellency--"

"OF COURSE YOU DID!!!" A hint of flames leaked out of Halmut’s raging breath. "Let’s all congratulate Tralbok on his victory! It’s not every day that a lv. 97 mage is able to kill a lv. 91 beast!"

CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!

The Sun God clapped three times, letting the echoes shake the table he leaned on due to his lack of having a seat.

"Did you kill anyone within at least three levels of you? Did you?!"

"No, your--"

"THEN SHUT UP!!"

Tralbok instantly sealed his mouth, struggling to meet Halmut’s raging gaze.

Snarling, Halmut continued, "Lyrun and Oosam both passed but at the very least they had a reason for it... Oosam took on more than he could chew in order to buy everyone else time and Lyrun was up against the most offensively gifted god. Grixor failed to defend and save Lyrun, but the worst performers were definitely Torian and Tralbok!

"I--"

"Torian, there is no arguing this!" shouted Halmut. "You were tricked and led away from the other battles. You even let Jack sneak away and join the battle while you chased a cheap imitation of him!

"And Tralbok... YOU WERE THE WORST!" Spittled flew out of Halmut’s mouth but evaporated from his heated breath in mid-air. "Not only are you too proud of successfully killing a god six levels weaker than you, but you’ve failed to realize how long you took! Then, after taking your time with Kori, Jack arrived and kept you from simply throwing an attack at the ascending mortals beneath you... JUST THROW AN ATTACK!!!"

 

 

Chapter 617

"JUST THROW AN ATTACK!!!"

"Your excellency--"

"NO EXCUSES!" Halmut roared. "Jack may be skilled, but that gives you no reason to flee from his presence!"

"Yet Jack managed to repel you."

Quieting his roar and sharpening his gaze, Halmut questioned, "What’s the meaning of your statement?"

Perchet continued, "I believe that’s what Tralbok is currently thinking. I’d bet money that Tralbok had such a thought in his head while facing Jack, deciding to play things defensively instead of going for a killing blow. Right, Tralbok?"

"Either way, that changes nothing..." Halmut replied with a shake of the head. "I was caught off guard because it was Jack’s first time revealing his true strength. He used that surprise to his advantage and I backed off to ponder and reconsider the level of threat he presented. But you’ve all been warned and already know what he’s capable of, so the one valid excuse for failure is nonexistent in Tralbok’s case!"

"True!" Nodding, Perchet added, "I’m not agreeing with such a thought, I’m merely presenting the thought due to Tralbok’s lack of spine."

"Fair... But no more comments without proper reasoning!" ordered Halmut, getting a nod from Perchet and many of the gods present. "Any other objections?!"

A hand went up, not surprising Halmut or the long-time subordinates under the Sun God.

"Go ahead, Torian. Though I know what you’ll ask."

Standing and folding his arms, Torian stated his thoughts, "I think there’s one key piece of information that has led to all of this, yet you’ve side-stepped this topic for thousands of years and acted like this wasn’t a problem at all. Halmut, why haven’t you told us the truth about Daruun and your ascension?"

Halmut squinted and nonchalantly used his hand to pop his neck. "It was never necessary until now. But since the need has arrived, then I’ll share some long-forgotten memories."

"Excuse me, your excellency, but what are you all implying?"

"While you were guarding the key in your temple, our charge was abruptly stopped by Daruun," Torian answered calmly.

"By Daruun? You mean, Daruun stepped in to help the leisure gods?" asked Kylon.

"No. Daruun was the one that stopped everyone, including the leisure gods and the mortals battling beneath us," answered Torian, causing Kylon to blink in disbelief. "We’ve never experienced something quite like that... I think it’s fair to say that Daruun is more powerful than everyone in this room combined."

"Surely--"

"No, that’s including Halmut," argued Torian.

Perchet seconded the statement, "Torian is right. Daruun made us feel like toy dolls, nothing more than playthings that were forced to do his will the moment he arrived."

"He’s... that strong?" Kylon blinked, struggling to digest that thought. But as each god across the room wore the same dejected face, Kylon was stunned and forced to consider Torian’s statement as truth.

"I won’t get too far into the details," Halmut stated to reaffirm his position in the conversation, "so listen carefully. I may or may not answer your questions so choose your words wisely."

Getting a nod from Torian, Perchet, and the others, Halmut began his explanation, "I met Halmut when Skaryn and I were once companions. Daruun appeared from out of nowhere and offered us the opportunity to ascend beyond the strength of mortality, so we took it. Very rarely does Daruun do anything here, though, so that’s why Skaryn and I played nice when Daruun visited Kartonia."

"So he’s not from here?" asked Perchet.

Torian also asked, "Where does Daruun come from?"

"Daruun is not from Kartonia and I don’t know where exactly he comes from. But I do know that Daruun holds a position of responsibility over a vast region of planets, with Kartonia being one of them," answered Halmut. "And yes, there are other planets with sentient life like ours. I’ve yet to leave here but I plan to leave and grow my influence beyond Kartonia after leveling up once more."

"How did you get on Daruun’s bad side? And why would you willingly do so with such a powerful individual?" questioned Torian.

"Because I’ve met people even more powerful than Daruun. Is that enough reason?"

"Yes... I suppose that is." Shrugging, Torian then asked, "Then what were you planning with all of us after you leave? I assume that our binding contracts wouldn’t disappear after you leave, right?"

"Correct..." Halmut sighed, taking a second to phrase his words carefully. "What I want is to take you all with me. Given the friends that I’ve met from outside of Kartonia, that should be possible given the right circumstances. Do you have a problem with that?"

Torian and Grixor both shook their heads, taking the answer easily. Most of the gods followed their example and nodded to appease the silent anger in Halmut’s eyes.

"Then you now know all that you need."

"What about Skaryn?"

Everyone was caught off guard by the unexpected question. Like everyone else, Halmut turned to Kylon and blinked.

"What was Skaryn’s relationship with Daruun?" asked the Storm Goddess.

"Oh... He was closer to Daruun in the end but he also strayed from the plans that Daruun wanted," explained Halmut, subconsciously heaving a sigh of relief. "Daruun merely wants to have pawns that play along with his plans in the end but both Skaryn and I stepped away from that. I think it was the last thing that we had both agreed on, though Daruun had always shown Skaryn favoritism. It’s not so much that I’m on Daruun’s bad side, but that he preferred to be with Skaryn, a fellow human.

"Either way, that’s all you need to know about him. Now... let’s talk about the announcement that Daruun made." Looking back to Kylon, Halmut asked, "You know about Glacier Reef, right?"

Zoned out for a moment, Kylon blinked and speedily shook her head before responding, "Yes... I remember it."

"Do you remember how to get there?"

"I can find it given a day or two. Why do you ask?"

"Because I must have all of the treasures!"

 

Chapter 618

"Because I must have all the treasures!" Halmut shouted. "I’ve already told you that we plan to leave Kartonia and rule elsewhere. Taking the treasures of Glacier Keep will make that far more possible, being our final venture as gods of Kartonia."

"And what about our followers?" asked Kylon.

"What about them? They’ll stay here as we move on to better lives. Given how terribly you handled that battle, we’ll lose at least half of our supporters before we can enter Glacier Keep," reasoned Halmut. "And the rulers of our subordinate nations will likely investigate leaving our side as well, believing that we’re incapable of facing the leisure gods."

"Your excellency..." Perchet sighed, giving everyone a moment to redirect their focus to him. The God of Sound never turned his head or looked around, only appearing to stare blankly at the table with his blindfold on tight. "By the sound of it, you seem to know more about Glacier Keep than you’re letting on. Would you mind filling us in on why you’re so adamant about receiving the treasures of Glacier Keep?"

"I only know of its location. No need to--"

"By the sound of your voice, I sense that you’re possibly excited for one treasure in particular. And since you seem to have already known about the existence of Glacier Keep, perhaps you know of what lies inside?"

"Perchet, that’s enough," Halmut replied. "I know of Glacier Keep due to Lunara. Her species originates from Glacier Reef, the area that surrounds the sealed Glacier Keep. As for treasures, I have no clue what’s inside."

"But you--"

"Kylon, there’s no need to say more."

"... Yes, your excellency."

Continuing, Halmut mentioned, "As for what we’ll do to enter Glacier Keep, we’ve got one week to bolster our strength. How many divine candidates do we have left?"

"None of ours survived the battle," Torian admitted. "They were targeted heavily by that mysterious swordsman, leaving us with no one over lv. 80."

Grixor added, "The same goes for us Quake Dragons. My apprentices were also slaughtered by that swordsman."

"Hmmm... And the same goes for the Magma Dragons?" asked Halmut.

"Correct."

Looking around the table, Halmut squinted in thought as he tapped his fingers on the table. "Kylon, how many candidates do you have?"

"Given a week to grind and permission to clear out dungeons without regulation, we can six candidates at most," answered Kylon.

"Six? That many?" Halmut was surprised, as was everyone else.

"Yes, six. Since we Flood Dragons have been given the past few centuries to recuperate our losses after Skaryn’s slaughter... we’ve managed to focus on leveling at the sacrifice of some of the countless sea life species," Kylon explained, subconsciously pausing and blinking for a half a second after mentioning Skaryn. "And since it was the strongest Flood Dragons that were away with me during the incident, it was our numbers that were hurt and not our overall strength at that time."

"Perfect!" Halmut smiled and looked to Perchet again. "How many candidates are there among the Nocturnal Dragons?"

"Your excellency, you promised not to--"

"How many, Perchet? Right now, we need all the strength we can get. The more candidates we have, the stronger you all can become and the more gods we can send into Glacier Keep," stated Halmut. "Now, how many candidates have you raised?"

Sighing, Perchet shook his head, "Zero."

"Zero?! That’s impossible!"

"There are zero candidates," Perchet repeated. "We never focused on leveling. Everyone here understands that Nocturnal Dragons have always preferred to live in peace and we don’t seek violence. That should be obvious, given the terms of my joining the holy gods long ago when you promised not to get my people involved in any wars."

"Perchet, we can’t accept such terms during a crisis such as the one we’re in now," stated Tralbok, attempting to regain some face in front of Halmut.

"Those were the terms and I wish to stand by them. I only joined to keep us from waring with the other draconic species," argued Perchet.

"Perchet..." Halmut sighed, intensifying his stare. "Right now, I must admit that Tralbok is right. We’re facing a crisis we never expected and we must--"

"So are you going back on your word or not?" the God of Sound questioned outright. "You know that I can’t deny your orders given the deceptive contract that I once naively signed. If you’re going to change the terms we previously agreed on, then state it outright."

"Perchet, right now we must band all dragons together!" roared Halmut. "You saw what happened! They slaughtered and slew every last--"

"No, I saw nothing," refuted Perchet. "Halmut, I won’t deny your orders, but no that I’m fulfilling them unwillingly. A true leader should honor his word and pride more than anything, not... well... That’s enough rambling for me. I’ll visit home and search for people. With a week’s time, we may be able to create three candidates. But we’ll also need permission to wipe out entire dungeons if you want that."

"Of course!" laughed Halmut. "We’ll soon be leaving anyway, so there’s no need to worry about the dungeons. If anything, I like the thought of leaving the leisure gods with fewer places to harvest EXP."

"Very well..." Perchet sighed, rolling his eyebrows and swallowing his own pride.

"This is how we should do this. You’ll take your nine candidates to various dungeons, including the ones we’ve saved for occasions such as this, like the catacombs in Zuran. Wipeout everything you can and make sure that all nine ascend," ordered Halmut. "Tralbok, you’ll be allowed to reach lv. 98, but you mustn’t disappoint me again. If that happens, I’ll personally wipe out your existence."

"Yes, your excellency," Tralbok agreed with the bow of his head.

"Kylon, you’ll also become lv. 98. Perchet, you’ll become lv. 97. And because of your low-levels, we’ll allow Tyres and Alcahain to both gain two levels. That’s how we’ll spread the nine divine candidates, alright?"

While most everyone nodded in some form, one person raised their hand.

 

Chapter 619

"Sillo, what is it?"

"Your excellency, can I also gain a level, at least one? I don’t want to disgrace you anymore with being so weak."

"I appreciate your concern, but I don’t think we’ll have to worry about that anymore." Halmut reasoned, "With so many high-level gods, we’ll out power and outnumber the leisure gods. Even if they revive their fallen, they’ll only be lv. 90. And we’ll only need to worry about Jack, Moranti, and Sterfen, which will be more than possible now. They’ll have a few key members but the rest of the gods will grow weak and outnumbered."

"I must say," Torian spoke up, "their low-leveled gods are still formidable and not to be underestimated."

Halmut grinned and stated, "That’s why we’ll be sending in five groups into Glacier Keep, each being led by a high-level god. The Leisure Gods won’t be able to do such a thing with their limited amount of high-level gods, giving us the edge inside Glacier Keep. Then, you can kill anyone without hesitation."

"Five groups? Are you not entering yourself?"

Everyone at the table was startled by Perchet’s question, realizing the reality of Halmut’s orders.

"That would be best," reasoned Halmut. "So long as I remain here, then leisure gods won’t be able to send all of their strongest members into the keep. Also, didn’t you notice that a single, highly-influential god on their side was missing from your battle?"

"Sterfen... What do you mean?" asked Torian.

Halmut replied with a shrug and a smug smile. "I imagine that he was waiting for me to make an appearance. After successfully assassinating Naparn, I think Sterfen has grown more confident and is now targeting me. So my staying here would be best for everyone. Unless you’d like Sterfen to join you all in the unknown temple, where he’d be at an advantage with his stealth skills..."

"I think we’ll manage," Torian nodded, not afraid to admit his fear. "Jack has already proven to be a handful and he’ll gain more levels as he helps the revived gods ascend. Limiting their high-level gods to Jack and Moranti would be best, as adding Sterfen to the list would possibly be too much for us with those three alone."

"I second that." Grixor nodded and sighed. "Of all opponents, at least Moranti fights head-on. Jack does too, for the most part, so he’s a better opponent than Sterfen who constantly hides in the shadows."

"Then it’s settled! We’ll gain another nine gods and bolster our strength and numbers at the same time!" boomed Halmut. "Kylon, you’ll leave three of your soon-to-be subordinate Flood Dragon gods to protect the seal while you and the rest join the expedition to Glacier Keep. You’ll add your blood to some teleportation scrolls before gathering the candidates and venturing early to find Glacier Reef. As it unseals, tell us and the rest will teleport to your location. Understood?"

"Yes, your excellency."

"And be careful. If you’re in trouble, immediately call us and we’ll send reinforcements early should they be necessary."

"Of course, your excellency," Kylon agreed with a formal nod.

"Actually... I want you to leave two of the new gods at the seal and have one remain outside of Glacier Keep after it’s been opened. Then we’ll be more prepared if the leisure gods surprise us."

"Your excellency, I don’t think we need to sacrifice--"

"Kylon, that’s an order."

"... Yes, your excellency..." Kylon shook her head and sighed, answering robotically.

"Now, as an incentive for finding and gathering more treasures, I’ll reward everyone according to the amount of treasures you bring back," added Halmut. "You all know about these, correct?"

A small mound of multicolored crystals suddenly appeared on the table before Halmut. All eyes were on them, curious as to what exactly they were.

"These are energy stimulants, given to me by my friends from beyond Kartonia. These are the reason I was able to defeat Skaryn and the reason you’ll be able to grow much stronger after leaving Kartonia. I’ll give you all a share after raiding Glacier Keep, but for now, I’ll let you each take one and see for yourselves how potent they are."

Halmut tossed a crystal to each of the gods present, even the newly ascended Quake Dragon gods that survived the recent battle. But Kylon didn’t receive one as Halmut mentioned, "For now, you shouldn’t have one. Not until your condition passes."

The brief comment was quiet and overlooked by many as they began to roll the crystals in their hands. They were all too curious as to why Halmut was so dependent and confident in such a strange item.

"Calm your breathing and focus on the energy sitting within the crystals. As you clear your mind and focus fully on the energy in the crystals, you’ll find that the energy will begin to leak out and will begin to seep into your body," explained Halmut, taking one his hand as well to demonstrate.

One by one, the legendary gods each attempted to feel the energy within the crystals. Tralbok was the first to feel the energy rushing into his arm and Torian was barely behind him, showing their talent and sensitivity to energy. Grixor struggled for a moment but soon was able to feel the rush of the powerful energy. Alcahain and Tyres did the same, liking the sense of power that it gave them, as did the newly ascended Flood and Quake Dragons.

While those gods were getting a glimpse of an energy high, a couple of others clutched tightly to the crystal but weren’t able to absorb any energy. Or better said, they didn’t want to attempt it quite yet.

Sillo’s mind kept going back to Duorda’s comments mid-battle.

"You’re sloppy... Your control is getting worse by the second... Yet your trivial perspective of power limits you. How sad..."

The lone Twin Mage God had begun to view things differently. He wondered what his opponent had meant by control, curious to know if that was how the lv. 90 skeleton was able to easily overwhelm two lv. 93’s and casually comment about the battle while doing so.

 

Chapter 620

Also, Sillo wondered one thing, something that Duorda made clear the moment they encountered each other. Duorda had introduced himself as the current assistant to Jack and the former assistant to Daruun. Being Jack’s assistant was interesting but being Daruun’s former assistant meant more than Sillo could fathom after learning that Daruun was from another world.

Didn’t that mean that Duorda also came from outside of Kartonia? Wouldn’t that mean that Duorda may have been right about all of his mid-battle comments?

Such thoughts kept Sillo from immediately accepting the multicolored crystal as an easy way to gain power. Sillo’s perspective of power was completely flipped after that fight. If such control was how a newly ascended god completely overwhelmed a tag-team of gods that were three levels stronger, wouldn’t it be best to seek higher levels of mana control and not raw power?

It also proved the drastically different approaches to training that Skaryn and Halmut used. The stimulants proved that Halmut sought raw power to the fullest. But that didn’t line up with how Halmut defeated Skaryn after all, as they all knew that Skaryn was somehow sealed away without anyone fully knowing how.

At the same time, Sillo was able to think back to when Skaryn would rarely tutor him and his sister. Skaryn was always patient and wanted to perfect his techniques before trying to increase the power he put into them, always talking about how there were no shortcuts to true strength.

In the end, Sillo merely kept the crystal in his hand but didn’t commit to absorbing any of its energy.

One god caught the crystal but promptly placed it on the table without a second thought. While nearly everyone was beginning to smile at the rush they felt, Perchet kept his calm and cool demeanor, unaffected by the positivity that everyone showed to the stimulants.

Perchet cared not for substantial power. He had always remained true to his strength and sought natural means to grow and protect his people. With motives of protective and not dominance, Perchet’s view of strength was quite different than most dragons in general. But Perchet’s abilities were also incredibly unique among the dragons, even within his own people. It was his rise that managed to cement them as a draconic race that shouldn’t be messed with and was hard to predict in battle. And raw strength had nothing to do with it, as Perchet relied on tactics and difficult-to-counter abilities to win his battles.

Halmut paid little mind to those two, sure that they would eventually give in and try the stimulants. With the other gods instantly accepting them as a good thing, neither Perchet nor Sillo would be able to ignore the effect of stimulants for long.

"Seriously?!" Alcahain shouted with joy, getting everyone’s attention.

"Congratulations on leveling up!" beamed Halmut, anxious to show off the strength of the stimulants.

"This... I now understand why you constantly absorb these," Torian added with a smile.

"I like it!" Grixor pounded his chest, staring eagerly at the untouched pile of stimulants.

"Bring me treasure and I trade stimulants for them. The more valuable the treasure, the more stimulants you’ll receive. Even if I need to ask for more, that will be easy after we leave Kartonia," explained Halmut, getting smiles from nearly everyone. "With that settled, are there any more questions?"

"I have one, but it’s more of a comment," Torian stated, losing a portion of his smile. "I want your help removing poison from my body?"

"Poison? How can you get poisoned?" questioned Halmut, wide-eyed.

"To distract me upon returning to the battlefield, one of Jack’s copies stabbed me with a poison dagger." Retrieving the dagger, Torian slid it across the table for Halmut to examine. "The feeling is minuscule and I’m still more than capable of fighting with my full strength, but my body does feel occasional numbness which I can ignore."

"Numbness, huh?" Halmut picked up the dagger and gave it a sniff, immediately pulling back his nose. "Has it gotten worse, even a little?"

"In retrospect, I believe the numbness has ever so slightly been getting worse each time it acts up."

"Walking death toxin... It’s been a long time but it makes sense for Jack to have it, given his history..." Halmut mumbled loudly, shaking his head. "It’s not something that’s of immediate concern but we should remember that Jack is the one who created walking death toxin in the first place, so him having such a concentrated amount is more than possible."

"Jack created that?" Perchet asked, sharing the surprise with many of the gods present.

Halmut continued, "Yes, that I’m certain. That was the first time I recognized the Legend of Trodar as a stand-out hero. He was the first to fulfill my quest among thousands of heroes. Though I gave hints and suggestions as to how such a toxin should be made, Jack was still the first to make it. Because of him, we gained a chemical advantage over Skaryn for a short while."

"Only because you had Skaryn’s potential Poison God killed..."

"Enough, Perchet. No need to mention such a useless story and worthless divine candidate," Halmut stated. "Either way, we need to be aware that Jack likely has a lot more of this walking death toxin on him. There’s a chance that he’ll equip each of the gods with some in order to offer them another edge in battle in an attempt to make up for their low levels. Don’t forget that."

At the same time, Halmut retrieved several vials and tossed them around the table. "These are the antibodies to fight walking death toxin, which Jack also created and turned in for the quest. We have plenty but that doesn’t mean they’ll instantly negate the immediate numbness. This will keep the toxin from progressing in your body and gradually kill the toxin in a day or two. Keep your wits about you when the leisure gods wield any unfamiliar weapon."

"Now, is there anything else?" Halmut asked. "No? Then let’s end this and get to work creating new gods!"