Chapter 19: The Crucial Move
"So, let's assume the 'world' as a massive circle."
In that place, three figures were present.
One was the elderly gentleman who made the previous statement. Another was a young man with a magician-like appearance. The third was a tanned young man dressed in a black ceremonial robe.
"Within that circle, there are multiple worlds. The heaven and hell described in the Bible, Yggdrasil, the world tree of Norse mythology, Mount Olympus mentioned in Greek mythology, and so on. The spaces between the circles are known as the rifts between dimensions."
The elderly gentleman drew a circle on the table and started adding several smaller circles inside it. Some circles were placed far apart from each other, while others overlapped. They varied in size and shape.
"However, the world we are in is different from these circles."
The elderly gentleman drew another large circle.
"There is a way to travel from the Underworld to Heaven if you have the means. It's natural since they exist within the same circle. The rifts between dimensions serve as a space similar to the sea. But fundamentally, those worlds and this world are different. The sense of distance between them is more like that of planets rather than countries. That's why free movement between them is not possible, except for a few exceptions."
Upon the gentleman's words, the young man with a magician-like appearance, Georg, leaned forward.
"One of those exceptions is the summoning of Heroic Spirits through the Holy Grail, isn't it?"
"That's correct. To put it in perspective, it's like accidentally picking up radio waves from an extraterrestrial civilization. Well, if this world—this cosmology—had a 'seat,' things would be different. However, as long as the gods exist even in modern times, the balance between the mysteries of this world and humanity's rationality remains ambiguous and distorted. This is merely a viewpoint from me, an otherworldly person, so it might only appear that way."
From the perspective of inhabitants of a world where the Age of Gods and human order were established, the way the mysteries of this world existed seemed contradictory. However, from the perspective of inhabitants of this world, it seemed to work. In terms of the concentration of mysteries in the modern era, this world was overwhelmingly dominant. If someone from that world were a magician, they would likely seek means to cross over and explore this world.
"However, Professor, it would be impossible to create something akin to Goetia's Holy Grail in this world, right? Well, I haven't seen the actual Holy Grail, but once I saw the Time Temple..."
"You can create alternative spaces too, can't you?"
"They exist in different dimensions."
Georg's exclusive bounded field, the Time Temple. Its second Noble Phantasm, "The Time of Crowning Has Come, It Initiates All," was a workshop of imaginary space cut off from time. It was a miniature model of the universe.
The moment Georg stepped into that space, he went mad.
Georg's Divine Construct, "Zerstörung" could destroy entire bounded fields and even nations. By activating its forbidden technique, "The Ideal Paradise in the Mist," he could build an even stronger bounded field. However, the Time Temple made even such comparisons pointless. The dimensions were different, their natures were different. The levels were different, the stages were different.
He realized how narrow his perspective had been, how limited his achievements and techniques were. Georg managed to regain his composure because his intellectual curiosity and spirit of inquiry surpassed his sense of defeat. For better or worse, he was a magician and a scholar.
"I see you're also interested, Apophis."
The true identity of the young man in the black ceremonial robe was Apophis, one of the representative Evil Dragons and said to govern solar eclipses in Egyptian mythology. One of the anomalies revived by Valerie's Holy Grail.
"Of course, it's an intriguing story even to me. The condition for our cooperation in this plan, after all, is challenging otherworlds and unknown heroes."
Evil Dragons. Dragons that were annihilated. Bizarre beings with destructive impulses and a desire for self-destruction. They were the most abhorred monsters.
"In the world the Human King seeks to create, there is no place for us Evil Dragons. We're not even allowed to ask for what we desire. It feels as if our existence has been denied. But if we are taken to a new playground, it's a different story. Aži Dahāka, Grendel, Rādūn, and Níðhǫggr all support this plan... although Kuruwa Crow seems to be seeking a different spectacle."
"Knowing that there are multiple existences like Goetia in that world, yet still wanting to go there. You guys are quite mad."
"I am honored to receive your praise, Professor."
The gentleman intended it as sarcasm, but it didn't get through at all. That was only natural. Apophis was an Evil Dragon, said to have lost even the last screw in its head. He was the epitome of that.
"A challenge to otherworlds, huh? Actually, I've come to understand something new about this 'world.' Would you like to know?"
"Oh? That's intriguing. Please do tell me."
Apophis responded with interest, and Georg also paid attention to the professor.
"I have investigated the space between these massive circles. You see, we need to find a way for them to return. Through my investigation, I discovered that there are not just two worlds. If we designate this world as 'D' and the world I come from as 'F,' there is another world known as 'E.' It seems to be a completely different world with a vastly different worldline than both our world and this world."
"What...!"
As Georg was suddenly shocked by this new fact, he sensed a nearby presence moving in haste. He even heard gunshots. Being cautious, he understood the situation from the voices he heard.
"Wait, Leonardo! Cavities are a dangerous illness! Immediate treatment is necessary! With the latest treatment methods, it will only take a little bit of drilling! So, wait! I'm telling you to wait!"
"...!"
To put it briefly, it was a child resisting treatment. But the problem was not with the one being treated; rather, it was with the one providing the treatment.
"...I'll come to help before all of Leonardo's teeth are drilled away."
"So that the dentist doesn't become a mummy!"
Georg found himself facing a life-or-death situation before the battle even began.
***
Attack on the fallen angel Governor Azazel and the highest-ranking devil Tannin by a mysterious knight order. The news spread not only throughout the Underworld but also to mythologies around the world.
Even Odin, the god-king of the Norse pantheon, who had visited the Underworld to attend a counter-terrorism meeting, had heard the details of the incident in greater depth than the public.
"This is surprising."
"Yes. It's unexpected that the Governor of the fallen angels and the former Dragon King are lagging behind. Could it be that the Heroes' Faction of the 'Khaos Brigade' has gathered more formidable forces than anticipated?"
Odin shook his head in exasperation at the words of his Valkyrie attendant, Rossweisse.
"No, that's not it. Those who attacked Azazel, Tannin, and the Red Dragon Emperor are not part of the Heroes' Faction."
"Huh? W-What do you mean, Lord Odin?"
The culprits this time were a group of knights. Many of the knights were fully armored and their faces were hidden, and they did not reveal their identities. However, three individuals were different.
One was Irina Shidou, the warrior of the church who had been missing. Her whereabouts had been unknown, although the church had been searching for her as she was supposed to possess a fragment of Excalibur. This was partly due to the numerous problems the church faced due to the sudden peace, which resulted in limited manpower for such matters.
And the remaining two individuals were said to be in possession of Clarent and Arondight, cursed demonic swords—one being the King Slayer and the other the Kin Slayer. The one wielding Clarent went by the name of Mordred.
Based on the circumstantial evidence, one could consider that descendants of heroes and reincarnations of heroes had gathered in the Heroes' Faction. However, Odin flatly denied this.
"To prevent public chaos, Sirzechs and Azazel will deliberately conceal this truth. Well, it wouldn't change anything even if they were to make it public. I would do the same in the same situation."
"T-Then, who are they exactly?"
"That... even I don't know."
Upon hearing those words, Rossweisse trembled. It wasn't like she was completely shocked and overwhelmed. Odin, who had the aspect of the god of wisdom and the ability to foresee the future, had thrown in the towel, saying he "doesn't know anything."
"There are two facts that have not been disclosed to the public. One is that Ddraig's soul was extracted from his Sacred Gear. The other is that one of the culprits, Irina Shidou, mentioned a person called the 'Lion King.' It's problematic that this person was referred to as a 'goddess.'"
"...Could it be that some mythologies are pulling the strings behind the scenes?"
"I had already anticipated that such a thing might happen. Perhaps Hades or Taishakuten... One is a nuisance to the forces mentioned in the Bible, while the other creates a chaotic world to produce strong warriors... It's ironic, but that boy's peace will likely become the spark of war."
As Odin, he couldn't deny Taishakuten's thoughts. Odin himself was the god of war and accepting strong heroes into Valhalla was one of his roles.
"That might be where your hero comes in. Isn't it embarrassing for a Valkyrie like you to be single at your age?"
"I'm not purposely staying single!"
"Then, if the opportunity arises, make sure to seize it. Guiding heroes to Valhalla and serving them is the true aspiration of a battle maiden."
As Odin said that, the image of his daughter came to mind. The battle maiden who had been sealed in the Flame Halls as punishment against Odin's wishes. By some twist of fate, she fell in love with a human hero. And their love ended tragically. It was one of the most well-known tragedies in Norse mythology, and their love had come to an end.
"Um, Lord Odin, there's something that has been bothering me for a while..."
"What is it?"
After a few seconds of hesitation, Rossweisse gathered her courage and spoke.
"Regarding the pillar-like abomination, the Demon God Pillar, right? It's been reported that the confirmed individuals have claimed the same names as the seventy-two pillars. Furthermore, the seventy-two pillars are believed to be part of the 'Khaos Brigade.' In other words, the Heroes' Faction..."
"A mere battle maiden like you should not casually speak that name in this place. Especially not in front of devils or angels."
Odin's one-eyed gaze took on a stern expression. It was different from his usual lecherous old man persona—there, he exhibited the dignity of a god-king and war god. However, it was just for an instant. The intimidating aura disappeared from his eyes, and he shrugged his shoulders playfully.
"Don't worry. The situation you're imagining is probably not happening."
"B-But why can you say that with such certainty, Lord Odin? With all due respect, given the circumstances..."
"Don't worry. It's a simple matter. If 'he' truly regained consciousness, then the Underworld wouldn't still be intact."
Upon hearing that and understanding its meaning, a cold shiver ran down Rossweisse's spine.
"After all, 'he' was once human. But he was not a slave to the god of the Bible. Our mythology also got caught up in it. It's quite a nuisance."
As Odin spoke, he smiled in a somewhat delighted manner.
"Now then, what will those boys who have lost their master do? As for me, I would be delighted if more heroes come to Valhalla. It may not be Ragnarok, but it might turn into a Wild Hunt."
Rossweisse remembered.
The Wild Hunt, a procession of the dead that is said to add those it encounters to its ranks and is considered a harbinger of calamity. Various gods and heroes are said to lead it, including Odin.
Other variations include the "Pirate of Salvation," the "Victorious Queen," and the "King of Knights."
***
"Report from Valac. It seems that the forces of the Bible haven't realized the threat of the Lion King."
"Additional information from Glasya-Labolas. The Rating Game with the young devils will proceed as planned."
"Notice from Goetia. While they are engrossed in their festivities, prepare for the defeat of the Lion King."
"Report from Vassago. The Old Satan Faction assassinated the successor of Glasya-Labolas' forgery. Florence Nightingale eliminated the successor of Astaroth's forgery. Proxy representatives were chosen for these two individuals from their bloodlines. However, as proxies, neither the 'King' nor their subordinates possess notable power."
"Supplementary information from Kimaris. The successor of Gremory's forgery has suffered mental hindrances within the subordinates due to the weakening of the Red Dragon Emperor. It is undeniable that the successor of Sitri's forgery lacks outstanding firepower."
"Supplementary information from Ronove. The successor of Agares' forgery has higher firepower than Sitri's subordinates but has a similar structure. The successor of Baal's forgery possesses extremely high abilities among their subordinates, including the 'King.' The title of the top young devil is not a lie. However, it does not pose a significant hindrance to the plan."
"Question from Saleos. Are there any forces in the angel or fallen angel camp that we should be wary of?"
"Answer from Leraje. There are no forces above executives to be wary of in the fallen angel camp. In the angel camp, aside from Dulio Gesualdo, Vasco Strada, former wielder of Durandal, Evald Cristaldy, former wielder of Excalibur, and Theodoro Legrenzi, the Miracle Child, could pose a threat. However, their current threat level is low."
"Observation from Vine. Shouldn't we bring them over to our side, including Dulio Gesualdo?"
"Denial from Vepar. If we interfere with the Church any further, there is a possibility of information leakage."
"Agreement from Morax. Due to the hasty conclusion of peace, clashes of assertions have occurred within the Church. Altering the balance of power through our contact could be dangerous."
"Request from Furfur. The Lion King cannot be defeated by the Heroes' Faction. The Evil Dragons are not enough. We need additional forces."
"Proposal from Alloces. Summoning Heroic Spirits would undoubtedly increase our strength. Activate our Holy Grails."
"Rejection from Crocell. We cannot rely on them any further."
"Agreement from Haagenti. There is a high possibility of summoning Heroic Spirits that would harm us."
"Supplementary information from Amon. We have destroyed the World of Man and battled numerous Heroic Spirits in the former Time Temple. Since we have become involved with them, it would be wise to refrain from further summoning of Heroic Spirits."
"Proposal from Zepar. Then let us increase our pawns in this world."
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
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