Chapter 56 - HA 56

Chapter 280 - Grave 

"Haaaaah...Haaaaah….."

As I continued to release heavy breaths as if I was just about to drown underwater, I looked around.

"Astron!"

As the familiar voice of the certain girl echoed in my head, I turned to face her.

"Are you okay? Here, drink this."

For some reason, I wasn't able to remember anything. As if I had awakened from a dream, every memory of mine was blurry, it felt like.

'What was I doing?'

I knew inwardly that something inside me had changed. Something that was missing. Slightly narrowing my eyes, I resisted the pain that tried to overlap my head and took the water Sylvie gave me.

"Thanks," I mumbled as my brain started recalling the information of what I could remember to last.

'I was looking for some observations and then…..'

Then, everything suddenly became dark. After that, I don't remember much aside from some blurry moments.

"You won't ever leave me, right?"

Once again, a voice echoed in my head as I recalled one of the blurry moments. The voice that is familiar.

'It is her voice, isn't it?'

Most likely, I had awoken from a dream. If it was that, everything seemed to make sense. However, there were many other things in the environment that I couldn't quite put my feelings on.

'The atmosphere….'

–THUMP!

Just as I thought about it, suddenly, I felt a sensation in my chest. The same sensation I got countless different times.

'A demon…'

But this time, it was different. Much more different.

This sense of dread was so much that I was even about to have a hard time breathing. My heart started beating incredibly fast, as if I was running for a long amount of time.

'Everywhere around is filled with demonic energy.'

Whether it was because the demonic energy was incredibly potent or, for some reason, I could see everything better; I was able to notice the energy surrounding us. The dark energy was covering almost every other location around and those dark threads connecting in the air.

It was disgusting, as if something was feeding from it.

"ASTRON!"

Sylvie's urgent voice brought me back to the present. She asked if I was okay, and I nodded, reassuring her that I was fine.

"What happened?" I asked. I had an idea in my head, but right now, I needed to understand the situation first.

"Sigh…." Hearing this, Sylvie released a long sigh as she looked at my right side with a face filled with unease. "I want to explain everything to you, but we need to wake Irina up first."

Before Sylvie could answer, she suggested waking up Irina first. I turned my attention to the side, realizing for the first time that Irina was lying on the ground, unconscious.

'Irina is unconscious as well?'

But something seemed different about her, as her body was slightly convulsing.

'She is about to wake up.'

Realizing that it was the symptoms of waking up, I waited.

–PAH!

"Haaaaah..."

Irina's eyes snapped open as she jolted forward, her sudden awakening accompanied by a sharp intake of breath. The surroundings seemed to take a moment to register for her as she glanced around, confusion evident in her amber eyes.

"Irina, are you alright?" Sylvie asked, her concern palpable. I moved closer, offering a hand to help Irina, and she accepted it, using the support to steady herself.

Her initial disorientation faded, and she nodded in response to Sylvie's question, reassuring us, "I'm fine, just a bit disoriented."

'Everything seems too weird.'

My memories were blurry, and from the looks of it, Irina was in the same condition; she looked blankly around.

But at that moment, suddenly, she bolted from her place.

"We don't have much time!"

And she shouted. Her complexion turned paler as well, and her blood circulation sped up. It was evident that she was now in a state of excitement, but that wasn't what I needed right now.

"What do you mean? Elaborate."

I answered. 'We don't have much time, what does it mean?' While asking this question to myself.

"That…..I don't know."

However, the reply she gave me made everything weirder.

"You don't know?"

"I mean…..I know something is going wrong, but I can't quite put up what it is." She replied, trying to understand what she meant as well.

'Is it related to her memories?'

If that was the case, then maybe she had seen something inside that dream, and even if she had forgotten the contents, that feeling of dread might have affected her subconsciousness.

Right now, inwardly, I was starting to get angry. I knew one thing for a fact: the emotions I suppressed were getting out once again.

The existence of demons around me was getting on my nerves.

Sylvie intervened, reminding Irina of their purpose before entering my dreams. "Remember, we came here to find answers about Phantom's Land and its mysteries. We were investigating the magical properties and the strange occurrences. Maybe something triggered this reaction."

Irina's eyes widened as she brought her hand to her forehead as if trying to grasp elusive memories. "Oh, now I remember... We were trying to find a way to understand the magical energy and the anomalies in this land. Before entering your dreams, we were planning to—"

Suddenly, realization dawned on her face. "Wait, it's all coming back to me. I remember everything now, Astron. Something dark and menacing. It felt like a malevolent force trying to consume everything."

"What? You need to elaborate more."

"I can't. That is all I know from the dream, Urghk-!." As she pressed her temple, she looked at Sylvie. "I am fine, just a second."

After that, she grabbed the water Sylvie gave her without even using her hands but only using her 「Telekinesis 」. And the way she did it was certainly in a proficient manner.

'Was she this good at Telekinesis?'

I asked myself, but I didn't linger on that topic for now.

"So, you seem to know what is happening here?"

I asked. From how Sylvie acted and how Irina was trying to talk, it seems these two found something about this whole issue.

"Yes." Irina nodded. "Let me start from scratch. After I had completed the theory, I went to check the facts…..–"

As Sylvie and Irina recounted their experiences, the air inside the bungalow grew thick with tension. Their words painted a picture of Phantom's Land as more than a mere enigma, revealing a malevolent force at play.

I listened intently as they shared encounters with phantoms, the intricacies of magical influences, and the calculated nature of the entity shaping the land.

Irina's amber eyes held a focused intensity as she emphasized, "It's shaped by a powerful entity, with intentions unknown and potentially dangerous."

'It must be the source of this demonic energy.' I thought to myself. The entity Irina was talking about was the demon, but most likely, she was unable to identify it because she had never encountered a real demon before.

After all, demon followers or demonic humans are a lot different from demons.

Sylvie added with worry. "The entity's malevolence explains the dark spells and the complexity we encountered while probing Jasmine's heart. This isn't just a random occurrence; it's a calculated influence."

To sum up the findings, Irina had confirmed that this demon was the reason why Phantom's Land was formed in the first place, and the demon was looking for something.

'Such a large-scale thing, and the original never mentioned something like this.'

There were many questions that needed to be answered, but one thing came first.

"Then, what are those phantoms….."

If those phantoms appeared once someone entered into this sleep-come state, then it meant either those phantoms were their souls or something related to their consciousness.

'What happens to those phantoms once the body is dead?'

This was another question. After all, if the phantoms were somehow related to souls or consciousness, there was a chance that those phantoms who wandered around like that after the clock hit 06.06 would still have their bodies somewhere around.

At that moment, as I contemplated the information, I heard Irina mumbling something under her breath. "Parallel world…"

The words caught my attention, and I immediately asked, "What do you mean, Irina?"

However, she seemed unable to answer; her expression clouded with frustration, as if the answer slipped through her fingers. "I don't know, I can't point anything….."

But the mention of a parallel world triggered something within me.

I started looking around the room as if expecting to find a clue in the shadows or the mist that permeated Phantom's Land.

Then, my eyes fixated on the spell that was connected to the heart of Jasmine. It was a complex array of magical symbols and psions, and as I observed it, a realization struck me.

"Spatial psions…" I muttered to myself. The gears in my mind started turning, and a crazy idea began to form. It was both because of what we found and, at the same time, I knew an enemy from the game.

'What if these phantoms are not just illusions or manifestations? What if they are souls from another world?'

'We all felt like it was like a dream. But what if we actually replaced our parallel selves.'

The notion seemed far-fetched, even to me. However, the spatial positions in the spell hinted at a connection to the manipulation of space.

What if this demon was attempting to create a rift between worlds, a space crack that allowed the souls from another realm to seep into Phantom's Land?

'Then, everything would make sense. Even the identity of this demon.'

After all, there was no way that such a strong boss that could somehow get this amount of humans under its spell would left out in the game.

It was bound to be mentioned, and it was certainly done.

'So, it came from here, huh?'

I asked myself. To think that the boss of one of the future side-quests was actually something related to Phantom's Land.

'I guess the game can never reveal all the details at once after all.'

If the idea in my head was correct, then from then on, things were about to get both troublesome and good.

Facing an enemy that would normally be far more powerful in the future made it easier for me to respond in any case.

'Then, there is only one thing left.'

To kill the enemy.

Chapter 281 - Grave (2)

Being the way the game is, there were bound to be opponents that didn't directly challenge the protagonist physically but had used different methods.

This was to make sure that the developers could add a mystery element to the game. However, at this point, I doubt that it was simply a game.

Even now, something inside me feels different. From the moment I woke up, I felt like something inside me was a lot more complete.

Whether the way I think or the way I feel….It is hard to pinpoint. But, even then, the feeling inside me, you can call it a hunch, is saying that I think the world is not that simple, and there are many things that I have yet to know about it.

In any case, now that hunch needs to be taken to the shelf for the time being, as I need an object to focus on.

'The mana flow…..'

From what I could see from the environment, the direction of the mana, and the continuous energy supply somewhere, what Irina and Sylvie had said all pointed at one thing.

When every piece of information was revealed right before us, there weren't many things that we could do.

"You…."

At that moment, Irina's voice entered my head. "Were you able to deduce anything?"

She asked with her eyes sparkling. It seemed that even though the fog of her dream-like state was lingering in her head, she was still able to act rationally.

It was also easy to understand why she was depending on me for the answer. In her eyes right now, my previous two achievements regarding theoretical things should be on the front, and they are giving her a high evaluation.

Her thoughts were not necessarily wrong either.

But at the same time, there are many questions regarding this. If it was that demon, how was Irina able to wake me up?

Even in the game, the sole reason Ethan was able to defeat it was because of the powers he had awakened in the later times of the second year's first semester. Just like Sylvie, Ethan was also immune to the changes in his psyche.

The spell the demon used wasn't effective on him; therefore, Sylvie and Ethan both embarked on the small journey to bring it down.

It was also the event where the two got closer, and Sylvie started becoming a part of the main cast. However, Ethan was not there now, and only Sylvie was awake.

After she had woken Irina up, which was probably the rightest choice she could make in that situation, Irina decided to test the waters.

But from that point on, everything is blank.

What did she do when she entered into my consciousness using 「Phantasmal Transfer」 spell? I knew what that spell did, and certainly, she must be in my dream.

Another important question.

What did she see?

Did she see about my past? The past that was about her and about Earth? Because if that is the case…

I didn't want to do what I needed to do.

'From her reaction, that doesn't seem to be the case.'

I could see with my eyes. Unless Irina is the world's best actor who can control even the micromovements of her body, any reaction would never be missed by my eyes. Therefore, it is safe to assume that whatever she had seen, there was something that she couldn't directly remember.

'This also corresponds to what I had experienced, so everything is fine.'

At least it should be fine. If my existence here is in danger, I need to take extreme measures, which I have never wished to do.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" Irina asked, seemingly uncomfortable with my gaze. At her reaction, I understood that I had been looking at her with my thoughts wandering around for a while.

"My bad….I was lost in thoughts." I replied.

"…..It is fine….I am a bit shaken as well."

It seemed she connected my behavior to the fact that I had just woken up from that state and was bombarded with huge amounts of information. Certainly, if that was any other normal human out there, her assumption would be correct.

But sadly for her, it was not true in this case, though this assumption is something I will gladly accept.

"So…" She continued. "What do you think?"

As she asked once again, I decided to answer with a mix of truth and lies. Revealing that I knew too much about this could make her suspicious since the source of my information is something that is almost impossible to reveal.

"First and foremost, I agree with your hypothesis. The entity we are looking for is the sole reason why Phantom's Land was formed." I said, pointing out the data. "I can assure you that you haven't made any mistakes in your calculations."

That was the truth. After going through her calculations in almost an instant, I was sure that she hadn't made any mistake.

Irina looked relieved by my words, a hint of satisfaction in her eyes. "I'm glad to hear that. But there's still so much we don't know. What's the next step, Astron?"

This point was important.

'If I want to confront this demon, no matter what, I can't do it alone right now.'

Even if that entity is not at its peak right now, it is still a formidable enemy, especially against something like me.

'Since it has almost a whole army underneath.'

Considering the fact that, in the game, it was able to control all those souls as he wished…..It was a type of enemy that wasn't compatible with me.

'Phantoms are not that hard to deal with if they are alone, but once they are much higher in numbers, things will get very hard.'

I needed someone to come with me. A person who could both act as a decoy and could face an army on their own.

"We need to focus on locating the source of this entity's influence within Phantom's Land. The mana flow indicates a central point, and that's where we'll find answers."

I replied, directing the conversation just as I wished.

Sylvie, who had been silently observing the conversation, spoke up, "But how do we confront this entity? And what about the others who are still trapped in this dream-like state?"

Sylvie's words made sense. When she was able to keep herself calm, she could become someone valuable. I guess the future Saintess can not be just a dumb girl, either.

Well, I already knew she would ask this anyway.

"First, we need to pinpoint the entity's location," I replied while making eye contact with Irina. Hearing my answer, she lowered her head for a second and then widened her eyes.

"The mana…" It seems she was also able to realize what I meant. Her reaction showed that she wasn't paying attention to the environment for the time being, thanks to her being a bit shaken, and with my indication, she realized what was happening around us.

"You can feel it as well, right?" I asked.

"Yes." She nodded her head. "The flow of energy." The words she had spoken also made Sylvie realize. After all, Sylvie also possessed the ability to sense any extraordinary energy.

"Oh, my lord…." She gasped after looking at the amount of energy that was sucked. "This is…."

Irina looked at Sylvie with a serious expression. "The amount of energy is so high that it could maybe even rival my mother's energy." Her words conveyed the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the formidable power emanating from the entity's influence within Phantom's Land.

Sylvie's eyes widened in realization, understanding the immense challenge we were about to face.

The comparison to Irina's mother, someone undoubtedly powerful in terms of magical energy, heightened the sense of urgency.

"We need to act swiftly and cautiously," Irina continued, her gaze shifting between Sylvie and me. "The enemy is formidable, and we must be prepared for any challenges it might throw our way."

Hearing from her, I thought this was how the main cast of the game needed to be. She may be arrogant and a bit annoying sometimes, but Irina has the necessary features to be the main character of a game.

Even now, instead of thinking of running away, she is trying to look for possible ways to beat the enemy.

I could see from her eyes, her body language, and her small shakiness of words that she was nervous and scared. She probably thinks the chances of us doing something is not very high, but at the same time, she also probably knows that we don't have any other choice.

So, in the face of the only option, which is highly likely to lead us to death, she still doesn't escape from it.

'Well, this should be fine.'

And I wanted to see how much she could improve, for how long she could go.

"What do you think we should do, Astron?" Irina asked her question, carrying both urgency and anticipation.

I turned to Sylvie first. "Sylvie, how much of your power remains?"

Sylvie lowered her head. "I used the last of my power to open the path for Irina. There isn't much left."

I could already see that with my eyes. The power Sylvie is using is heavily related to her trait [First Lord's Authority], and it is not exactly mana. It is a Divine Power that could be used both for healing someone and dealing with someone.

But, since she had just recently awakened, she had yet to get any opportunity to cultivate that power enough to use excessively like this, so this was already within my expectations.

A moment of silence followed as Irina absorbed the weight of Sylvie's words. The challenges ahead seemed even more daunting with our limited resources; at least, this will be what she will be perceiving.

'This is not bad either.'

I thought. The fact that Sylvie didn't have any power left meant she wouldn't be able to join the fight, and that was better.

'Considering that with her, I can't show my full power.'

If I could, I wanted to avoid her finding out about my true identity for the time being, so this situation worked in my favor anyway.

'Also, she has her own job.'

Raising my hand, I gently patted Sylvie on her head. She looked a little down, probably feeling useless with her depleted powers.

"No time to be down," I said. "You have your own job to do as well."

Sylvie raised her head, looking at me curiously. "Really? What can I do now?"

"Someone needs to block the flow of energy."

Sylvie's eyes widened with realization. "And how can I do that?"

I pointed to the herbs we had brought with us. Even though I hadn't foreseen such things to happen, I at least prepared for some cases where Phantoms went out of control, and now it was time for them to be used.

"Use those. If you spread them on the bodies of those lying around, the souls will be forced to attach to the bodies, making them impossible to move freely."

Sylvie nodded, understanding her role in the upcoming challenge.

It was a simple yet crucial task, and I knew Sylvie had the capability to handle it. Even with a little bit of her remaining powers, she may discover how to recover that on her own.

Well, even if she couldn't do it, that was fine, but this would certainly make things a little bit easier for us since the phantoms wouldn't join us in the fight.

"And as for our case…." I turned my attention to Irina. "We will confront the enemy."

But it seemed she still needed a bit of encouragement.

'If that is what you need, it won't be hard.'

After all, I knew what could drive Irina hardest, the reason for her arrogant behavior and anything.

Prev

Chapter 283 - Grave (3)

"And as for our case….

We will confront the enemy."

As those words left Aston's mouth, Irina's eyes widened at his decisive statement. Even if she had known that this was what they needed to do, she wanted him to at least have a different idea from herself.

'Maybe….just maybe….'

She thought there was a chance that he was able to come up with a plan that wasn't as dangerous as what they were doing now. She didn't know what to say at that time, but now that it was just the two of them preparing for the fight with Sylvie already left, she couldn't help but want to ask.

The weight of the impending confrontation was evident in her expression as she opened her mouth.

"Confront the enemy, but how? We don't even know what kind of entity we're dealing with."

That was what she thought about the most. The feeling of dread inside her mind didn't go away, as if she felt like she had seen what this thing was trying to do.

'It is probably something I had seen in that dream.'

Irina thought to herself. Whatever it was, she had no way of proving that anyway, either.

"That's true," Astron mumbled. However, suddenly, his face turned different as his purple eyes seemed to be filled with an unknown aura of emptiness. As if he had now become a completely different person right before her eyes. He looked deep into Irina's eyes and spoke.

"Just when the Irina Emberheart had ever considered who was the enemy."

Confused by the sudden change in Astron's demeanor, Irina took an instinctive step back. His clear eyes bore into hers, and for a moment, she felt exposed and vulnerable. Astron continued, his voice steady.

"The Irina I know has never wavered in front of anything."

Irina's mind raced, attempting to comprehend the meaning behind Astron's words.

'What? What is this?'

The sudden shift in his tone and demeanor caught her off guard, making her wonder if she truly knew the person standing before her.

Astron continued to advance slowly towards Irina, who instinctively took another step back. His eyes bore into hers with an intensity that seemed to unravel layers of thoughts and emotions. The atmosphere between them grew tense as he spoke.

"The Irina I know was strong," Astron's voice echoed in the room, "and arrogant. Always believing she was better than others."

Irina's brows furrowed, a mixture of confusion and concern playing on her face. The words cut through her with an unexpected precision, making her question the image Astron held of her.

"Even though," he continued, "it made you annoying at times, that strength and arrogance were what made you yourself. You should never lose it."

His face stood right in front of her as she leaned on the wall. She felt trapped in front of his eyes for a second, as she couldn't look directly into those purple pupils.

Even if she wanted to escape, there was no way for her to leave this place, as the wall and his body prevented her from leaving.

"Therefore….." he stopped for a second as he grabbed the dagger from his belt.

–SWOOSH!

The dagger flew, directly penetrating the phantom that had just formed right behind himself.

Astron's sudden and swift action caught Irina off guard. The phantom that materialized behind him was instantly struck by his dagger, dissipating into an ethereal mist. The surprise on her face lingered as she processed the speed and precision of his movement.

Yet, what truly held her captive were Astron's words, spoken with an intensity that resonated in the close quarters between them. The challenge in his voice reverberated through the room.

"Show me, Irina. Show me and the world that you are not a person who wavered before any adversity."

Irina felt his presence too close, the warmth of his breath, and his scent that lingered in the air.

'That's right. I am Irina Emberheart.'

A part of her instinctively wanted to avert her eyes, but a fierce determination welled within her.

'There is no way I will escape.'

Raising her head, she met Astron's eyes, locking onto the depths of his purple pupils. He was looking down at her from above as if he was superior.

In that moment, she saw her reflection within his eyes, a version of herself that seemed pitiful.

'There is no way I am scared in front of something that operates secretly like this.'

Irina smirked, her amber eyes shining with newfound resolve.

'And, there is no way I can lose this bastard.'

The challenge laid before her fueled a fire within, and she refused to back down.

For some reason, his words seemed to resonate a lot deeper than she had thought initially, and she didn't want to linger too much on that since it made her think she had lost.

'You better not think you are better.'

Irina felt a surge of anger coursing through her veins. With a smirk, she reached out and grabbed Astron by the collar of his attire, pulling him closer to her. Her amber eyes bore into his, a mixture of defiance and fire dancing within them.

"Who are you to say such things to me?" she questioned, her grip on his collar tightening slightly. The room felt charged with an unspoken tension as she held onto him, her fingers gripping the fabric of his clothing.

Even the fire psions around them seemed to move thanks to Irina's thoughts and feelings.

–THUD!

Astron, however, seemed unfazed by her display of assertiveness. In a swift motion, he caught her wrists, his grip strong but not restricting. His purple eyes met hers, his expression not changing.

But Irina couldn't even take action before she felt her hand releasing their hold on his collar.

"It seems you've come to your senses," he remarked, releasing her wrists from his grasp.

The sudden shift in his demeanor, as well as eyes, left Irina momentarily stunned. From that intensity to his normal face….

It felt a bit otherworldly and abnormal.

His words lingered in the air, and the room seemed to echo with the unspoken intensity of their exchange.

"Then, should I take it as a sign that you are ready?"

As his words left his mouth, he was about to leave the bungalow. But Irina swiftly grabbed the hem of his clothes using her 「Telekinesis」, the fire in her eyes now replaced with a more composed determination.

"Wait," Irina said, her voice firm yet composed. Astron turned to look at her, his expression unchanged. Without uttering a word, Irina released her grip on his clothes and reached up to fix his collar that she had wrinkled in her assertive hold.

For some reason, she felt like she needed to do this. It was an action that she couldn't quite make sense of both as her feelings and for many other things.

"What are you doing?" He asked, his face a bit surprised. The action seemed to have surprised him a little.

"I hate seeing things unorderly."

"It is pointless. After all, these clothes will eventually get damaged in a close while."

"But it is not bad to start everything composed, isn't it?"

"…..That might be true…."

As Astron stood there, slightly surprised by Irina's unexpected attention to detail, she continued adjusting his collar with a focused expression. Her movements were precise, and she seemed determined to restore the order she had momentarily disrupted.

Astron, still puzzled by her sudden change in demeanor, watched her silently.

Once satisfied with her impromptu adjustments, Irina stepped back, giving Astron's appearance an appraising look. Her amber eyes met his, a newfound sense of determination shining within them.

"There," she said with a satisfied nod, "now you look presentable. Let's face whatever is out there in style."

Astron raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes that Irina could pinpoint. "Is style really necessary for this?"

Irina smirked, "Always. It adds a flair of confidence, and confidence is key."

"It seems to me that you are the one who needs confidence, though."

Astron's teasing remark prompted Irina to shoot him a glare. "Coming from someone who just threw daggers at phantoms in a bungalow, you're one to talk about confidence."

"At least I don't need a fashion intervention to boost my confidence.

Irina's cheeks flushed slightly, and her voice wavered as she responded, "Shut up. You have no right to talk about it."

"Why is that?"

"Just because I said so."

"You are being unreasonable."

"Just shut up, bastard."

"Yeah, yeah."

Seemingly enough, as Irina returned to her usual attitude, Astron's amused eyes faced the flow of mana while turning serious and cold instantly without making Irina alert.

********

As they pressed further into Phantom's Land, the thick fog shrouded them in an otherworldly silence, broken only by the haunting moans of trapped souls.

Irina was able to sense the direction of the mana flow; therefore, she led the way from the front. And even though Astron was also the same, he let Irina do as she wished.

Irina, being the formidable fire mage she is, led the way with flames dancing at her fingertips. Her eyes glowed with an unwavering determination, casting an eerie light in the mist.

Phantoms emerged from the fog, their ghastly forms swirling with malevolent energy. Irina wasted no time, unleashing controlled torrents of fire that engulfed the spectral beings.

The phantoms, caught in the searing flames, dissipated into nothingness.

"Come on now! Don't make me laugh!"

She was smirking while using her mana as she wished. That was only possible because she was Irina Emberheart, the Fiery Demoness.

Astron knew there was no other person who could do this like her aside from another mage.

When it came to dealing with a huge number of enemies, the fire in her hands was one of the most dangerous weapons.

However, that didn't mean Astron didn't do anything. As a skilled archer, he took a more strategic position supporting Irina.

With bow in hand, he aimed with precision, his arrows finding their marks among the approaching phantoms that Irina missed, making her move as comfortably as she could.

As they moved deeper into the mist, the phantoms seemed to multiply, as if the very fabric of Phantom's Land conspired against them. However, Irina and Astron moved with a synchronized dance, skillfully dispatching every phantom that dared to cross their path.

Astron's arrows flew with deadly accuracy, hitting the phantoms' weak points and disrupting their ethereal forms. Meanwhile, Irina's flames danced with grace, consuming the malevolent entities in controlled bursts.

The foggy battlefield became a canvas for their expertise, a display of fire and precision. Irina's smirk persisted, her confidence unwavering, while Astron's calm and calculated movements added a layer of strategy to their offensive.

As the last of the phantoms dissipated into the mist, Irina turned to Astron with a grin.

"Not bad. Your aim is quite impressive."

Astron nodded, acknowledging her compliment. Yet, they didn't have time to stop, as suddenly, right before them, two different phantoms appeared seemingly weirder than before.

"Grrrrr..."

"What the?"

Chapter 283 - Grave (4)

"Grrr….."

Standing in front of the two phantoms, seemingly different than before I nodded my head inwardly.

'Indeed, just as I had suspected.'

The moment I had seen their forms, my suspicions were immediately corrected.

"What are they?"

Irina asked as she looked into their face. Even if now that she had returned to how she used to be, it seemed she also understood the monsters before her weren't the same.

–SCREECH!

Yet, they are not the only ones that were out there looking for us. Behind, countless different sounds of screeches echoed around the place.

'They are here.'

The number of presences I could sense was immensely high. All of these patterns indicated that the enemy was what I knew.

"WHAT! What are we going to do now!" Irina shouted, looking at the sounds.

–GRRR!

The sounds of the two phantoms before us also started as the two monsters approached.

"Cover behind," I mumbled while raising my bow.

"What? You are going to face them alone?" Her face, while asking this, was quite a sight to see, but it wasn't the time for that.

"Yes. We don't have a choice." I replied while pointing at the two. "They are not as strong as you think."

This was an honest statement. Contrary to what one may think after seeing them, at the end of the day, they were phantoms and had a clear weakness. People tend to get the first impression of them being different from other phantoms thanks to them being the souls of high-ranking monsters, but in the end, they were nothing but simple phantoms.

"….." She was speechless at my statement, but after looking into my eyes for a second, she scoffed. "Humph…..I trust you…" She said while turning her body backward.

–SWIRL!

The fire started swirling around her head as she faced the horde of phantoms approaching us from where we came.

"..." She didn't say much as she walked back, but stopped for a second and threw a look at me. "You...Don't ever think of dying." Her eyes, her mimics, and everything was genuine. At that moment, she wholeheartedly believed and wanted what she had said.

"Don't worry," I said as the response while starting to walk forward. "I had yet to attain the right to die."

"Humph….Who is worried about you?"

­–TAP! TAP!

I wanted to retort but let her do as she pleased, walking forward.

'Now…..'

It was time to face the enemy.

'Using [Shadowborne] is pointless.'

I deduced immediately. Now that my location had already been revealed, Shadowborne was basically nullified for the time being, though that wouldn't be the case for the next enemies.

But it was not like I needed it anyway.

"ROOAR!"

As the first enemy immediately leaped towards me, I calmed myself down, both my body as well as my mind.

"Haaaaah….."

Taking a deep breath, I drew my bow, channeling it with my mana. I no longer needed to hold back, as Irina was also busy dealing with other phantoms.

–SWOOSH!

As I released the arrow, it flew with an incredible speed. The wolf that was flying in the sky seemed to widen its eyes as it could sense the energy of the arrow it contained.

However, contrary to what it had expected, the arrow went right past it and immediately headed backward.

–BOOM!

And following that, the arrow exploded from the place where the other phantom was residing.

As the explosion resonated through the air, I swiftly transitioned to the next phase of my plan.

The dark elf phantom, engulfed in the aftermath of the explosion, had likely taken a significant hit. Now was the perfect moment to deal with the soul of Raksha, the wolf-type monster.

I manipulated my mana, transforming my [Celestalith] from the bow into its dual dagger form. The celestial energy infused within the blades glimmered with a faint, ethereal glow.

Gripping the daggers tightly, I focused on the incoming wolf phantom.

–SWOOSH!

The wolf, seemingly confused by the unexpected explosion, regained its composure and lunged at me with ferocious speed.

'What a speed.'

Even in its phantom form, its speed was insane. Considering the fact that it was stronger than many of the other phantoms, it seemed even the souls had their rankings.

'But, not enough.'

I sidestepped its attack, narrowly avoiding its sharp claws. With a quick motion, I slashed at its flank with [Celestalith], leaving a glowing trail in the air.

–SLASH!

Raksha recoiled from the strike, its ghostly form showing signs of damage. However, the phantom was resilient and quickly countered with a series of agile maneuvers.

Dodging its attacks required precision and anticipation, yet I adapted to its movements with each passing moment. After all, I still remember the moment when I faced it in the game.

Its attack patterns were carved in my head, but I could also observe its body at the same time.

Meanwhile, the dark elf phantom emerged from the remnants of the explosion, weakened but not defeated. It raised its hand, preparing to unleash a barrage of magical attacks.

'I need to deal with this fast.'

Before its dark magic became a significant threat, I needed to deal with the Raksha.

–SWOOSH!

The wolf immediately lunged forward once again, its fangs glowing. From the looks, it was using one of the special skills it obtained after becoming a phantom.

I raised my daggers and channeled mana into them as the wolf approached. The Raksha opened its mouth, aiming to bite me from my shoulder, yet just at the last second, it disappeared from where it was.

–WRR!

And in an instant, it reappeared right behind me. It was its newly obtained skill 「Space Leap」 thanks to being a phantom. After all, that demon had the Spatial Mana Manipulation and was able to manipulate space.

Yet, there are always things that such mindless creatures lack. They are unable to think and are just a bunch of lesser beings.

That is how it works.

「Dash」

–STAB!

As I immediately increased my speed and rotated my body with an incredible speed, I stabbed the Phantom of the monster that had just appeared right behind me.

My eyes were already focused on its weak point, the place where its mana was connected to the hive of the demon.

Where the phantom's core was located.

–FUSH!

As my dagger stabbed the core of the phantom, it instantly turned into a bunch of particles.

After dealing with the Raksha, I swiftly turned my attention towards the dark elf phantom. Transforming [Celestalith] back into its bow form, I focused on the approaching threat. The moon energy within the bow I pushed pulsed with power as I drew an arrow infused with mana.

The dark elf, recovering from the aftermath of the explosion, prepared to unleash its magical onslaught. It was going to be detrimental since if it could do that, both Irina and I would be put into a tricky situation.

With a rapid motion, I released the arrow towards the phantom. However, the dark elf was not about to be an easy target.

–SWOOSH!

The arrow sailed through the air, aiming for the dark elf's essence. Yet, just before the arrow could make contact, the dark elf employed its spatial manipulation abilities and teleported, evading the impending strike.

'Tricky little creature.'

Yet, I knew it would do that. Once one of that guy's family members had done the same, the others were bound to do the same.

Anticipating its teleportation, I tracked the dark elf's movements with my enhanced perception, thanks to [Perceptive Insight].

As the dark elf reappeared in a new location, I swiftly adjusted my aim. Spatial fluctuations gave away its next position, and I released another arrow in that direction.

–THUD!

The arrow hit its mark, and a resonating explosion engulfed the dark elf. The force of the blast disrupted its magical concentration, causing it to dissipate into fading shadows.

With both the Raksha and the dark elf phantoms defeated, a momentary calm settled over the battlefield.

"Huuuuhhh….."

I took a deep breath, feeling the strain of the intense confrontation. Glancing back, I saw Irina still engaged in combat with the remaining phantoms.

'I guess she is doing fine on her own.'

Seeing that she was burning the horde of Phantoms on her own, I started walking to the entrance of the location where the demon resided.

********

As Irina turned to face the approaching horde of phantoms, her fire magic swirling around her hand, she couldn't shake off the nagging worry about Astron.

His decision to face the two seemingly unique phantoms alone puzzled her, and she couldn't help but question his strategy.

'I know he is stronger than he looks, but….'

As the first wave of phantoms descended upon her, Irina unleashed controlled torrents of fire, engulfing the malevolent entities in a dance of flames. The heat radiated from her attacks, creating a protective barrier around her, but the horde seemed endless.

'How can he fight those monsters alone?'

Irina wondered, her concentration divided between her own battle and the unseen threat Astron faced.

'No. If he trusted me enough to let me have his back, then I should do the same.'

She thought. The fact that he hadn't even looked at her way once after before was the proof of that.

'I need to do my part too.'

Despite her formidable abilities, facing a horde of phantoms wasn't an easy task. Her mind raced with concerns, but she pushed them aside, focusing on the immediate threat before her, yet she couldn't help but smile.

'Bastard…..Making me do the groundwork while you are having all the fun…..You owe me another….'

She raised her hand as she started building her magic in her head.

"Should I show you the imitation of a real hell?"

For the first time in a while, she could go all out. Who wouldn't want to do that? Especially the girl who liked to destroy things as a hobby.

"Burn….Under my guidance."

「Inferno」

The flames started taking control.

*********

After I had entered the core, things started getting different.

THUMP!

With each step I had taken, the beating of my heart intensified. The demonic energy in the air, as well as the mana, started thickening.

'Certainly, no joke.'

I thought, feeling the amount of the mana around. There was no doubt that this guy I was going to face was something that I needed to keep my calm.

'Yet, it is impossible.'

Even if I try to calm myself down forcefully, these soaring emotions inside me can not go down. But this time, I felt like I no longer needed to refuse those feelings. I felt like I could accept both the hatred and the logic as mine.

–WROOM!

Just at that moment, I felt like the presence of a spatial vortex.

It seemed I had finally reached the place of my desire.

Chapter 284 - Bury

What is the type of enemies that is the most disgusting in games?

Everyone has different answers to such questions. However, I am sure that there is one type of enemy that many would agree to be annoying.

The enemy that can travel in space.

One of the special types of hybrid demons was born with the ability to manipulate both spatial mana and psychic mana.

It was a type of demon that was the descendant of two primordial demons. In the game, it was an enemy that was so annoying to deal with that most players would at least break one keyboard against it.

Yet, now he was standing before me, looking at the special spatial slit that he was trying to expand.

His hands were open wide as he tried to control all the energy supplied right to him. He clearly seemed to be doing his best to manipulate every bit of energy inside.

The reason for that was highly likely simple.

'Is he trying to call one of his ancestors?'

After all, even though Belthazor was one of the high-ranking demons and descendants of Primordial demons, he was not on the level of the primordial demon itself.

And demons had a much cleaner hierarchy than humans. A demon's life belonged to the clan they belonged to, and that was it.

'I see.'

This should be what Irina must have felt. As I remembered the words she spoke about one of the most dangerous entities she had felt, it seemed in her dream-type state; she was able to feel the disturbance between space and time.

If that was the case, it was safe to assume that she was in a place where she could perceive space freely, but it was better not to dwell on that topic for the time being.

'If the first thing he did after awakening was calling for its leader, then….'

It was safe to assume that he wouldn't be in his best condition.

'Certainly, he still hadn't noticed me.'

Realizing that my [Shadowborne] was working just as I had intended, I slowly approached the place. If he had just recently awakened and was arrogantly moving, it would make sense.

Even in the game, he was somehow an arrogant one and operated as he wished. He didn't think anybody would be free from its spell and would be trapped in their parallel worlds.

After that, he would be attacked by Sylvie and Ethan, and then we, as the player, would defeat it.

But now, there was neither Sylvie nor Ethan.

It was me alone.

'Yet, I alone will be enough.'

My blood started to boil. In front of me stood one of the enemies that I wanted to kill the most. After all, Belthazor was one of the most disgusting demons out there.

"Oh' father…..Grace me with your presence once more….This foolish son of yours has devoted his life to you once more…."

I could hear his disgusting voice even from this distance. It was the demonic voice that even now sent shivers down my spine.

Not out of fear but out of hatred.

I stood away and took my position, changing [Celestalith] into its rifle form.

The weapon had taken its unique rifle form. The feeling of cold metal in both my hands would normally be calming to me, yet at this moment, I rather felt my emotions amplified.

'You need to calm down, Astron.'

I closed my eyes for a second, calling myself out. I knew getting controlled by my emotions right at the start wouldn't be a good idea.

Right now, I needed to act as a hunter. I could feel the strength inside me rising, thanks to [Vengeful Bane].

'That is right. You are the hunter now.'

After that, I opened my eyes.

I aimed the rifle at the demon, who was engrossed in his ritual near the slowly opening portal. Taking a moment to concentrate, I infused the weapon with my green mana. The energy hummed within the rifle, ready to be unleashed.

With a controlled exhale, I squeezed the trigger.

–PIU!

The condensed magic bullet surged forward, piercing through the air with deadly accuracy. It struck the demon's head, eliciting a sudden, crazed shout of pain.

"AAAAAH!"

The demon staggered, but to my dismay, it didn't fall. Instead, it quickly became alert, sensing the threat that had breached its concentration.

However, I wouldn't let it move freely.

With a swift motion, I unleashed another series of attacks. This time, arrows imbued with explosive power were at the ready. I fired them with precise intent, each arrow streaking toward the demon with the potential for devastating impact.

–SWOOSH! SWOOSH! SWOOSH!

The explosive arrows found their marks, creating a series of fiery eruptions around the demon. The cavern echoed with the sounds of destruction as the explosive force rocked the space around him.

"RAAAAAAA!"

The demon's enraged roar echoed through the cavern, a mixture of anger and frustration evident in its otherworldly voice.

"Who dares to disturb my sacred ritual!?" the lesser being bellowed, the cavern walls seemingly trembling in response to its wrath.

The demonic energy in the air intensified, swirling around the angered demon like a tempest.

–SWOOSH!

I was ready to attack it more, but I knew what was going to happen soon.

As the demon's fury grew, its eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for the source of the intrusion. The fiery explosions from the explosive arrows had obscured its vision momentarily, and now it sought retribution.

'He is coming.'

In that brief respite, I swiftly changed [Celestalith] back into its dual dagger form, preparing for the impending confrontation.

The demon's eyes locked onto my location, its gaze piercing through the haze of smoke and magic. If he had been careful from the start, I wouldn't have gotten this close using only [Shadowborne], yet he was arrogant anyway, resulting in me getting the first bunch of attacks.

­–WROOM!

With a sudden burst of energy, the demon utilized its spatial manipulation abilities. In an instant, it appeared right before me, a malevolent grin etched across its monstrous face.

The spatial teleportation left behind an eerie distortion in the air, showcasing the demon's mastery over space.

"You are here, you rat!"

The demonic creature, driven by rage, prepared to strike. Its monstrous hand reached out, aiming to crush me with its overwhelming strength.

Yet, I reacted swiftly, meeting the demon's malevolent gaze with my face devoid of anything.

–SHING!

I parried the incoming strike with [Celestalith], the celestial blades clashing against the demon's immense force.

The impact sent shockwaves through the cavern, and I struggled to maintain my stance against the relentless assault.

The demon, smirking with arrogance, spoke in a voice that echoed through the cavern,

"It hasn't been a while since I awakened from my slumber, and yet an annoying fly makes its appearance, disturbing my plans."

I remained silent, focusing on the imminent clash. The demon continued, its voice dripping with disdain, "You think you can defy my will? I am Belthazor, descendant of the primordial demons! Your presence here is inconsequential. Prepare to be crushed beneath my might!"

With a maniacal laugh, the demon unleashed a barrage of strikes, each blow fueled by its centuries-old grudge and newfound fury.

It seemed, just like me, that it also didn't like it when its plans were disturbed. That was the natural consequence. Nobody liked their plans disturbed anyway, aside from some.

After all, that would be all too boring if everything played according to one's plans either. There needed to be some spice.

–CLANK!

I countered the demon's strikes with precision, my dual daggers meeting the demonic onslaught.

Even if he was strong and fast, his raw physical abilities weren't the strongest part. Now, if he had just woken up just as he said, that would make sense that he had yet to gather his full strength.

–CLANK!

I continued to meet his attacks with my own.

'One from right.'

My eyes immediately captured the small movement on the right side of his open waist. His left leg was also clenched, signaling a high likely right swing of his claws.

–SLASH!

And just as I had anticipated, he threw me a fast diagonal top-to-bottom slash. Yet, because I had anticipated his moves, it was very easy for me to side-step his movements.

With a clean footwork of shift, I slightly changed my pillar foot and then followed it with a fast sweep of my left dagger.

–SLASH!

The celestial dagger glided through the air with precision, slicing across the demon's open waist. The cavern echoed with the demonic roar as my attack landed, opening a clean cut on the demon's midsection.

"AAAARGHK!"

The demon, momentarily staggered by the unexpected strike, let out another scream of pain. Yet, there was no pause in the relentless dance between us. I capitalized on the moment, swiftly transitioning to the next move.

–SLASH!

My left dagger followed in a seamless motion, aiming for the connecting muscles of the demon's right wing. The celestial red blade cut through the ethereal form of the demon, leaving behind a glowing trail. The cavern resonated with the demon's anguished cries as my attack found its mark.

The spatial energy crackled around us, but I remained focused, exploiting the weaknesses in the demon's movements. The clean cuts disrupted the fluidity of its attacks, and the demon struggled to regain control.

"You, human!"

The demon shouted as he staggered in front of me. The cut on its wings must have been painful, yet that wasn't the end.

–SWOOSH!

In an instant, I changed [Celestalith]'s form into its chakrams. The blades glowed in a faint grey light as I threw them rapidly to the demon.

–SWOOSH!

The chakrams, infused with celestial energy, whirred through the air with trained precision.

–CUT! CUT!

They sliced through the demon's arms and shoulders as they rapidly approached, leaving glowing trails in their wake.

"GRAAAHHH!" The demon roared, its pain echoing through the cavern. The celestial blades had inflicted significant damage, further disrupting the demon's ability to retaliate.

As the chakrams began their return journey, I seized the opportunity for another targeted strike. With a swift and calculated motion, I utilized the white tendrils connecting me to chakrams, directing the blades toward the demon's tail.

–SWOOSH!

The chakrams cut through the ethereal form of the tail, leaving another glowing trail of celestial energy.

"AAAARGHK!"

The demon's roar intensified a hearty and strong cry that seemed to express its inability to withstand the pain.

The spatial energy crackled around the wounded demon, and it seemed to reach a breaking point.

In a desperate attempt to escape the relentless assault, the demon utilized its spatial mana, teleporting away from my immediate vicinity.

Yet, I knew it would do that.

I changed [Celestalith] into its bow form and aimed right at where he was going to appear.

–SWOOSH!

Yet, just as I had fired the arrow, suddenly, its trajectory changed randomly.

"You arrogant human….."

The demon started speaking while standing in front of the place where the energy was supplied.

"I will bury you here alive…."

It mumbled as the energy flow changed from the slit to itself. It seemed, even its changed version at least had two phases….

Chapter 285 - Bury (2)

The cavern resonated with the demonic muttering as the wounded Belthazor stood before the energy source.

With an ominous energy flow, the demon began absorbing the essence, attempting to regain some of its peak form.

"You arrogant human... I will bury you here alive," the demon mumbled, its voice dripping with malice as it harnessed the power flowing from the spatial slit.

'Tch.'

I clicked my tongue, realizing that the battle was about to take a more challenging turn.

The demon, fueled by the absorbed energy, would undoubtedly become a more formidable opponent.

As the demon completed its absorption, a surge of power emanated from its form. The cavern seemed to tremble as Belthazor stood, rejuvenated and more menacing than before.

–SWOOSH!

I readied [Celestalith] in its bow form, determined to continue the assault. However, as I released an arrow towards the demon, I witnessed a distortion in the space around it.

'I knew it.'

The demon was manipulating the spatial energy, nullifying the trajectory of my attacks. That was also the reason why my first attack didn't hit. I had followed its movements cleanly, yet the attack had missed.

As I realized that the demon's newfound control over space made direct attacks almost futile, I started racking my brain.

I needed to reassess my strategy, finding a way to exploit weaknesses and disrupt its concentration.

'Even if the start of the time is different, Balthazor is still Belthazor.'

It seemed I had underestimated it a little since it had just awakened. Though, it won't change that much.

"You cannot escape your fate, human. I control the very fabric of space around me. Your feeble attempts to harm me are in vain," the demon taunted, its voice resonating with newfound confidence.

'We will see about that.'

I thought, grabbing [Celestalith] with its form turned to daggers. Since then, I have known what it was going to do.

–SWOOSH!

I adjusted my strategy, holding [Celestalith] with its form turned to daggers. The demon's taunts echoed through the cavern as it reveled in its newfound power.

However, I knew that despite its mastery over spatial manipulation, every entity had its limits. I needed to find a way to exploit those limits and turn the tide in my favor.

–WRRR!

Before I could formulate a plan, the cavern once again crackled with spatial energy. Belthazor, now moving at an even faster speed, instantly appeared right before me. The acceleration in its spatial movements caught me off guard.

"Prepare to be crushed, insignificant being!" the demon declared, its claws covered in spatial energy.

With a burst of supernatural speed, Belthazor launched a rapid assault. Its punches distorted the space around me, creating a challenging environment for me to navigate.

­Eyes of Hourglass.

Dash.

The demon's attacks came relentlessly, and I struggled to evade the blows as each strike threatened to disrupt my concentration.

I needed to activate my two skills to match the speed of its attacks. The time around me slowed as my brain registered the information as fast as it could.

I also felt the increase in my speed as my mana started being supplied to my body.

Yet, I knew using it too much wouldn't help much, and I needed to conserve my mana. From what I could see, there was one more trick that Baltazor could still use.

He still seemed relaxed.

I continued to fight with him, utilizing every possible aspect of my arsenal. I was reading its body movements and everything to predict where his attacks were going to come from. If I had wasted any time trying to use my reaction speed, things would get quite messy after all.

–CLANK!

I blocked the incoming claw with my daggers from the right side. The spatial energy crackled around us, and each clash sent shockwaves through the cavern. Belthazor, fueled by its rage and newfound strength, relentlessly pressed the assault.

His claws, infused with spatial energy, had an unpredictable nature, making it difficult to anticipate the trajectory of each strike.

–CLANK! CLANK!

As the demon continued its assault, I focused on blocking and evading its blows. Each clash of our weapons resonated in the cavern, the spatial distortions adding an extra layer of complexity to our duel.

–CLANK! –CLANK!

I maintained my defense, the daggers absorbing the impact of the demon's relentless attacks. However, the force behind each strike threatened to push me back. The spatial movements accompanying Belthazor's punches were disorienting, and I struggled to maintain my footing.

"Where is your initial confidence, huh?"

He continued to speak, but I knew it was still not the time. I needed to wait for the perfect moment.

'An attack from the left.'

I read his body and readied my daggers for a spatial swing.

CLANK!

And just as I had thought, he slashed the empty space with his claws. But, because he was able to bend the space, in reality, he actually slashed just my right side.

"Ho?"

–CLANK!

But, to not give me any time, he followed his slash with another one, but this time appearing before me. I also read his movements once again and deflected the attack at that exact moment.

"Arghk-"

But, my posture of deflection wasn't optimal, and I had injured my wrist a little in the process.

"Heh...Your end is here."

He mumbled as he raised his other claw. Even though my wrists were hurting, it didn't matter at this moment.

Yet, the more I got injured, the better it was.

The crimson color of my mana started covering my vision once again, as I started feeling the familiar feeling of bloodthirst.

It wasn't to the extreme yet, but I could feel the increase in my physical attributes, and that was it.

–SWOOSH!

I readied my daggers to counter Belthazor's next attack.

The demon, fueled by its arrogance, launched another assault. Each strike was swift and filled with the power of spatial manipulation.

–CLANK! –CLANK!

I deflected the attacks with my celestial daggers, but the spatial energy accompanying each strike left small injuries one by one.

The pain only fueled my determination. I couldn't afford to falter now.

'Soon, it is soon. Just a little more.'

Belthazor continued his relentless assault, exploiting every opportunity to strike. I focused on reading the muscles on his body, predicting the trajectory of his claws. As the battle unfolded, I could feel the familiar surge of bloodthirst coursing through my veins.

The crimson hue of my mana enveloped my vision, enhancing my physical attributes. The pain in my wrists became secondary to the increasing strength and speed I gained. I welcomed the bloodthirst, using it to my advantage.

–CLANK! –CLANK!

I deflected another series of attacks, but this time, I noticed a pattern in Belthazor's movements. His right leg, right wrist, and left shoulder were slightly clenched. I could also see the spatial mana psions bending the space between his right hand and me.

'A right spatial swing again.'

I thought, readying myself.

However, before I could adjust my defense, the demon vanished from my immediate vision.

I sensed a disturbance in the space behind me too late. Belthazor, utilizing his spatial movement, appeared right behind me.

The realization struck me – a feint.

–STAB!

"Burghk!"

In that split second, I felt the claws pierce through my chest. I turned to deflect the attack, yet the strength I could muster at that split second was not enough to ward off the assault, and I could sense the spatial energy enveloping his attack.

"Burghl!"

I could feel the blood rising from my stomach to my mouth. My breathing got haggard as my consciousness tended to waver for a second.

"Did you think I don't understand what you are doing?"

I could hear his voice coming from my back.

"A pathetic human like you thinks he can read me? Though your abilities are certainly commendable, you are two hundred years early to beat me."

–THUD!

Belthazor's cruel laughter echoed as he kicked me from behind. My body flew across the cavern, slamming against the rocky surface at the far end.

–TINGLE!

The impact reverberated through my entire being, and I could feel the sharp pain in my head as it hit the hard surface.

"Grr..."

Blood dripped from my wounds, and my vision blurred as I lay on the verge of losing consciousness. Yet, I knew it was close.

The time for the end was close. Even though my body was begging me to stop, even though the brain wanted to shut itself down, I had far long grown past the point of being controlled by mere instincts.

For me, walking on the bridge called life and death was something normal at this point.

'Soon…..He will do it soon….'

Belthazor's voice reached me from a distance, his arrogant words echoing through the cavern.

"You humans, elves or dwarves…..Whatever….You have all tried to suppress my race once before…..Yet, you are this pathetic, can't even raise your heads…"

I struggled to move, my body resisting every attempt to regain my footing. Belthazor's taunts continued as he reveled in his apparent victory.

"You fought well, but you should get what you deserve for disturbing my plans and wasting my time with your pathetic presence."

As his words echoed, I could see the energy converging into two points in the cavern.

"Now, you shall bear witness to the difference in power between us!"

From where I lay, I could see the demon rise into the air. His right arm shone red, and his left arm glowed with a deep blue radiance.

"This is one of my favorite techniques," Belthazor declared with a malicious grin, channeling the energy between his two arms. As he stood confidently in the air, he seemed assured of his imminent victory.

The energy between his hands intensified, and he took the opportunity to explain the nature of his technique. His words reached me from a distance, my weakened state allowing only fragmented comprehension.

"This technique involves the special mix of two different particle spins, one reverse and one direct." He explained, with his grin intensifying.

His disgusting face and teeth made me want to puke, yet I tried my best to hold myself. I knew now wasn't the time.

My eyes continued to watch his every movement.

"Once the two spins are combined, there will be no traces of you remaining in this world. You will become a part of the complete void, leaving nothing behind. Everything you have done, the fight you gave, will be meaningless, empty. Nothing will remain of you. This is your punishment for disturbing me."

Belthazor's laughter echoed through the cavern as he reveled in his anticipated triumph. He mocked me further, questioning what thoughts raced through my mind as I faced the impending oblivion.

"What do you think before you die, insignificant being? Your struggles and resistance were futile. Now, embrace the void that awaits you!"

At that moment, he had already finished channeling the two energies and was about to start mixing.

"Heh….."

And the moment he started doing that, I could no longer control the grin that formed on my face….

Chapter 286 - Bury (3)

Arrogance.

An overwhelming possession of a very important trait, self-awareness.

Those who are arrogant tend to overestimate themselves. That doesn't mean every one of them will lose control, but most of them will.

That is how that tendency works. And for the case of Belthazor….He was one of those that has an overly exaggerated feeling of individuality.

"Heh..." A small, faint laugh escaped my lips as Belthazor began the process of mixing the two energies. The sinister resonance of his technique echoed through the cavern, creating an ominous atmosphere, yet for me, that didn't seem threatening at all.

Belthazor, momentarily puzzled, furrowed his brows, questioning, "Hah? Has this guy gone insane?"

The truth was, my seemingly erratic laughter wasn't a sign of madness. Instead, it was a manifestation of something far more dangerous – something that would end him.

"Hahahahahahaa...Maaan….."

I couldn't control it. How could I? At this point in time, he just acted as I had wanted him to be, as I had predicted him to be. The moment he used his strongest spell to showcase his capabilities while erasing his spatial barrier….

"You never let down others, don't you?"

I mumbled, looking at the demon flying in my front. He was already half in the process of merging his favorite spell, yet the expression on his face didn't even seem to be happy at all.

Belthazor, still immersed in his spellcasting, shot me a bewildered glance. His eyes, filled with the remnants of arrogance, now held a glimmer of uncertainty.

"What's so funny, mortal? Your impending doom, or perhaps your feeble attempts at resistance?" Belthazor sneered, trying to mask the growing unease beneath his demonic demeanor. I could feel it….From his eyes, I could see….Slowly but surely, something was growing.

I knew one thing for a fact. This guy before me could instinctively sense what was about to come. It was not a thought he had with his logical reasoning. It was purely out of his own instincts.

"Heh... You just don't get it, do you?" I smirked, my laughter intensifying. The crimson hue of my mana enveloped my vision, casting a blood-red tint on the world around me.

"I don't get it….?" He raised his eyebrow. "Your body is battered, and your insides are sticking out. You can't even move your body? What can you even do?"

His words were grounded in the tangible reality of the situation. I, a mere mortal, lay broken and bloodied before a powerful demon like him. Logically, it made no sense for me to find amusement in my current state. But logic, in the face of the unpredictable, often faltered.

"What even am I doing?" Belthazor mumbled to himself. "Why am I even bothering with this pathetic creature?"

Following that, he almost finished merging two spheres, yet just at that point, he made a crucial mistake.

「Mother Moon's Guidance: Incessant 」

–SWOOSH!

Suddenly, chakrams materialized beneath him, swiftly launching toward the demon. Before Belthazor could comprehend the threat, the chakrams sliced through the air with incredible speed.

"Hu-"

He couldn't even finish his exclamation. The chakrams moved with such swiftness that he couldn't pinpoint their origin. The razor-sharp edges cut through the air, homing in on their target.

–SLASH! SLASH!

Just as Belthazor was about to unleash his devastating spell, the chakrams struck with precision. They cut through his demonic form countless times, each strike precise and lethal. The demon let out a guttural scream, his body shredded by the onslaught.

"AAAAAAH!"

–CRACK!

The pain, unexpected and severe, made Belthazor lose control. The beam of energy he held in his hand surged wildly, cutting through the cavern's ceiling.

–RUMBLE!

The once ominous atmosphere now turned chaotic as the unleashed power wreaked havoc.

'Not enough.'

I knew it was not enough, both for me and for Belthazor. The inferior demon might have been just awakened, but even then, they tended to be like cockroaches. Escaping and coming back.

They are nothing but insects that you need to crush at once, or else they will get more in numbers and will bite you back.

Especially a cockroach bastard who can manipulate space.

The crimson glow of my mana intensified, casting an eerie hue upon the chaotic aftermath of his failed spell.

"AAARGH!"

The cavern echoed with the remnants of his guttural screams and the destructive energy unleashed during his moment of lost control.

"Hahahahahahahahahahaha….."

In the midst of the swirling chaos, I couldn't suppress the eerie laughter that escaped my lips. The sound echoed through the cavern, a chilling accompaniment to the spectacle before me.

Belthazor, still momentarily dazed and questioning, looked up with a mixture of confusion and pain.

"Heh..." I chuckled, the laughter taking on an unsettling tone. "You demons are always so sure of yourselves, so arrogant in your perceived superiority."

–TAP! TAP!

The sinister resonance of my laughter hung in the air as I began walking toward Belthazor. Each step carried an eerie rhythm, synchronized with the pulsating crimson glow that surrounded me.

The tattered wings of the demon twitched in futile attempts to rise, but the damage inflicted upon them hindered any escape.

Belthazor's gaze, now clouded with both physical pain and a growing sense of dread, followed my approach. His attempts at defiance turned into feeble snarls as he struggled to rise from the cavern floor.

"You think this is the end?" he spat, his voice strained with both hatred and wounded pride. "You're nothing but a pesky insect. I'll crush you, even if it's the last thing I do."

He still seemed to hold a fighting spirit inside his head.

'Yes. That is how it should be. Fight me more…..You need to hope…You need to keep thinking that you can win…'

I felt like the corners of my mouth were crawled up so much that it was unnatural for my rigid muscles.

'It won't be fun otherwise. It won't help me extinguish this fire, otherwise.'

I allowed a sinister smile to play on my lips as I responded, "Oh, I do hope you try your best, Belthazor. Give it your all. Show me the extent of your inferior demonic strength."

Belthazor, despite his injuries, mustered a defiant glare. "You won't escape my wrath. I'll tear you apart, limb by limb."

I stopped my slow advance, savoring the anticipation in the air. "Do your best, Belthazor. Struggle, fight, resist."

「Dash」

–BOOM!

With a fast movement, I immediately dashed towards his face, my daggers in my hand. The pain from my injuries flared up as I tried to inflict more damage while pushing myself, yet the crimson hue around my body seemed to react in the opposite way, making me stronger.

I knew it was going to turn like this.

–SLASH!

I first attacked his right arm with a quick slash. My daggers were imbued with mana, yet I felt there was something more to that.

I knew, there was something more.

–FUSH! SPURT!

And, just as I thought about it, the slash of my dagger didn't stop with only physical attack. The crimson aura surrounding the dagger continued to move, like a wave of an attack.

"Burghk-"

Belthazor spurted a mouthful of blood as my dagger cut through his right arm. The crimson aura surrounding the weapon continued its relentless assault, seemingly reaching deeper than a mere physical wound.

The demon, now more infuriated than ever, tried to defend himself, summoning what remained of his tattered wings. However, the pulsating glow around my daggers defied his attempts at a counterattack.

–FUSH! SPURT!

I followed up with another swift strike, this time aiming for his right kidney. The dagger pierced through, causing Belthazor to let out another pained roar.

"Argh! You... you insignificant insect!" he spat, his voice laced with both agony and rage.

I pulled back my daggers, the ethereal glow of the crimson aura dancing around the blades. Belthazor, weakened and wounded, struggled to maintain his defiance, his eyes were shaking.

'Let me give you a moment.'

"Do you know why you are in such state?"

I asked him, while raising my hands, concealing my [Celestalith].

「Aura Strike」

SMASH!

My mana-infused hands collided with Belthazor's face, and I repeated the brutal assault. The demon, weakened and disoriented, struggled against the relentless blows.

"Argh! What... what trickery is this?" Belthazor groaned, blood now streaming down his face.

I continued the barrage of strikes, each blow fueled by my determination and the crimson aura that enveloped my hands.

SMASH! SMASH! SMASH!

"Tell me, Belthazor," I demanded between strikes, "do you understand why you're losing? Do you grasp the reason for your imminent defeat?"

The demon, unable to form coherent words, managed only guttural sounds of pain and frustration. I seized the opportunity to drive my point home.

SMASH! SMASH!

"The reason is simple," I declared, "you are just an inferior demon destined to die, yet you dared to underestimate me, underestimate the power of a mere 'insignificant insect.'"

As I raised my hand, I looked deep into his eyes.

"Do you know what makes me feel like smiling in this world? The only thing that gives me pleasure? Do you know why my heart is throbbing so much right now?"

I paused for a moment, lifting my hand to gaze into his eyes. The crimson aura surrounding me intensified, and my expression twisted into a manic smile.

"Do you know what brings me joy in this world, Belthazor?" I asked, my voice low and filled with malice. "It's seeing the fear in the eyes of the likes of you."

–SMASH!

My hand continued to smash him to the ground.

"It's witnessing you feel the terror of death, feeling the pain 'she' experienced. It's watching the life that she was supposed to live being snatched away from the likes of you."

I could see with my eyes that he was shivering underneath me. He was feeling it, yet that was still not enough.

Even though he was feeling fear, he was still yet to experience the true despair. The feeling of not being able to escape.

He needed to experience that, but that wasn't the time right now.

Right now, in front of me, he still thinks he can escape. I could see it within his eyes.

–SMASH! CREAK!

"Burghk!"

He let out another mouthful of blood, as I had smashed him from his chest. My hands were already bloody enough from all the beating I gave to him, my body being fragile.

Yet, at that moment, I could see Belthazor's eyes shining grey for a second.

–WARP!

And in the blink of an eye, Belthazor reappeared from a very far away place, reaching the location where he was absorbing the energy of the Phantoms.

His tattered form and disheveled wings spoke of the intense beating he had endured, yet his gaze burned with undying hatred.

"You think this changes anything, insect?" Belthazor spat, his voice a mix of pain and resentment. "I will kill you, and I won't ever forget what happened here."

Despite his battered appearance, the demon smirked in arrogance, proclaiming, "Next time, when I regain my full power, I'll make sure to finish what we started. You won't escape then."

–WARP!

With those words, he began to utilize his spatial mana to teleport away, leaving a lingering threat in the air.

Yet, just as he initiated the teleportation, something unexpected happened.

Chapter 287 - Bury (4)

There was once a theory on earth.

A theory about a specific type of force.

It was a theory that was widely discussed by many different scientists in the world, yet the most prominent thing about it was the existence of a movie.

Its existence is in a movie that was directed by one of the best, maybe the best, directors in this world.

An undoubted genius in the film sector.

In that theory, it was displayed that gravity was the force that could pass through space and dimensions.

Was that true?

It seemed that was the case.

"You think this changes anything, insect?" Belthazor spoke, his voice a mix of pain and resentment. "I will kill you, and I won't ever forget what happened here."

His words seemed to contain a deep hatred, yet he still seemed to think he could get away from here.

Still, in this position, he seemed to think he had the leverage to speak to me like that. That was his main mistake….The reason why he was bound to be inferior forever.

His arrogance will always blind him, and that will be the case.

He still can't understand who is the hunter here and who is the prey. He still thinks he is in a favorable position, but he still can't understand it at all.

Despite all the facts before him, he still dared to smirk in arrogance, proclaiming, "Next time, when I regain my full power, I'll make sure to finish what we started. You won't escape then."

–WARP!

And following that, he tried to use his teleportation, distorting the space once again and appearing in a far away place.

Yet, just as he initiated the teleportation, something unexpected happened. Something unexpected for him but expected for me.

–Umbralith

I called upon the final form of [Celestalith], and in an instant, the celestial weapon transformed into Umbralith, my fingers now filled with the rings.

I could feel the unstable energy in my hand, directly focused on right above my palm, forming a sphere.

A surge of dark energy emanated from the sphere, and the gravitational force around me intensified.

Yet, I knew that wouldn't be enough. Belthazor was now in a faraway place, which meant a specific connection was needed.

And I could do it right here. After all, this was my initial plan from the start. Even though he teleported far away, I could now see where he was.

Where he stood, what he was doing.

Everything was right before my eyes. That was thanks to the green tendrils connecting me to him.

The Green form of [Celestalith] always let me see the targets I had once marked. Yet, right now, the moment after I had woken up, I instinctively knew a way to specifically control those marks.

Seemingly, something inside me had changed, though I hadn't had the opportunity to check it back.

Utilizing those tendrils, I connected the gravitational field to him.

Belthazor, still mid-teleportation and unaware of the changed circumstances, found himself ensnared by a gravitational pull.

With a focused intent, I manipulated the gravity field around him, using Umbralith's power to its fullest. The distorted space resisted his attempt to escape, and he was forcibly pulled back from his intended destination.

–WRRRR!

"What?"

The demon let out a surprised roar as the gravitational force took hold, making him unable to escape my grasp.

–THUD!

He had fallen to the ground, seemingly unable to move from where he was at all.

"No matter how many dimensions you try to traverse, you won't escape," I declared, my smirk widening. Belthazor, on the ground and seemingly unable to move, looked at me with widened eyes, a mix of surprise and despair.

"Impossible!" he roared, his voice echoing through the cavern. With a desperate attempt, he tried to initiate his teleportation once again, distorting the space around him.

Yet, just as he initiated the teleportation, the gravitational force linked to the green marks connected to Umbralith acted like an unbreakable tether. Belthazor was pulled back once more, violently crashing to the ground.

–THUD!

His struggles became evident, but the force that held him was unyielding. His pathetic head slowly started realizing what was in front of him.

The demon's eyes widened in despair as he realized the futility of his attempts to escape. Even if his ego didn't want to escape, the inferior demonic heart inside him realized.

His instincts were probably screaming at him to leave, screaming at him to do something about this situation.

Yet, his inferior mind will not be able to think anything. This is his fate. The fate awaiting him, the fate awaiting every one of his kin.

TAP! TAP! TAP!

I slowly approached Belthazor with a predatory stride, no longer being able to contain the laughter trying to escape.

The gravitational force linked to Umbralith's power kept him firmly anchored to the ground, thwarting his attempts to escape.

"How does it feel, Belthazor?" I taunted, my voice dripping with malice. "How does it feel to be trapped, to be unable to leave where you are? To see all the ways for you to escape blocked?"

Belthazor's eyes, wide with a mix of surprise and despair, met mine. He struggled against the relentless force that held him, but it was apparent that escape was futile.

"Impossible!" he roared, frustration and rage evident in his voice. With a desperate attempt, he tried once again to initiate his teleportation, distorting the space around him.

Yet, the gravitational force remained unyielding, denying him any chance of escape. Belthazor crashed to the ground once more, the impact reverberating through the cavern.

–THUD!

I stood over the fallen demon, my gaze piercing through his defiant exterior. "You demons are so sure of your superiority, so certain of your invincibility. But look at you now, trapped and helpless."

The pulsating purple glow of Umbralith intensified, casting an eerie light on the scene. Belthazor's struggles only fueled my satisfaction, and I relished every moment of his despair.

"Tell me, Belthazor," I continued, my voice low and menacing, "do you still think you can win? Do you still believe you hold any power in this situation?"

I continued to walk towards Belthazor, the malevolent satisfaction evident in my every step. The echoing tap of my footsteps resonated in the cavern, underscoring his helplessness.

"Tell me, Belthazor," I hissed, my voice low and taunting. "What do you feel now? Do you feel despair? Do you sense that you can no longer do anything? Is your heart pounding so fast that it feels like it will jump from your body?"

Belthazor's face turned ashen as he struggled to rise from the ground, his attempts at defiance replaced by a realization of his dire situation.

"I'll give you credit for one thing," I sneered, "You demons certainly know how to put up a facade of strength. But deep down, you're all just pitiful creatures clinging to delusions of grandeur."

As I approached him, the gravitational force maintained its firm grip on Belthazor, preventing him from standing upright. He glared at me with a mix of hatred and desperation.

"You won't escape," he spat, his voice a strained growl. "I'll break free from this, and when I do, you'll regret ever crossing paths with me."

I chuckled at his futile attempts at bravado, the pulsating purple glow of Umbralith casting an ominous hue over the scene. "Ahahahahahahaha….." It was so funny that I felt like I could die from laughter here.

Or not.

In a last-ditch effort, Belthazor summoned all his remaining strength and attempted to teleport away once more. The distortion of space began, and he strained against the gravitational force, determination etched on his face.

Yet, as he initiated the teleportation, the unyielding gravitational pull linked to Umbralith's power acted like an invisible chain. Belthazor was forcibly pulled back, crashing to the ground on top of his knees.

–THUD!

"Arghk-"

He groaned, the intense gravitational pull exerting an unbearable pressure on his body. It was evident that he was experiencing the relentless force linked to Umbralith's power, making any attempt to move an agonizing struggle.

I loomed over him, the chilling glow of Umbralith intensifying the darkness surrounding us. "Y-you…." he stuttered, his widened eyes locking onto mine.

"Isn't this kind of ironic?" I mocked, relishing the moment. "The almighty Belthazor is now kneeling before me? Kneeling before the being that you once thought of as inferior?"

In a futile attempt to move, Belthazor strained against the unseen force binding him. He tried to summon his demonic strength, but it was clear that the relentless gravitational pull had drained him of any remaining energy.

"You thought you could break free," I taunted, "but look at you now. Your own arrogance has become your shackles."

Belthazor's face twisted in frustration as he struggled against the gravitational restraint. However, the more he resisted, the tighter the Umbralith-bound force constricted around him.

"Ahahaha, you know, it's almost pitiful to watch you struggle," I chuckled, savoring the sight of his futile attempts. "You wasted your mana pointlessly just to show that you are superior to me. Do you know the reason why you are in this state right now?"

I asked, looking at him. The more he knelt before me, the more I relished this feeling. I felt like I was taking my vengeance properly.

The demon who had attacked our village probably was not even here, yet it was probably an insignificant being.

"It is because you wanted to use that spell of yours to prove that you are strong. Why? Were you preparing that spell so that you could showcase that to your ancestors? To your kin that once looked down on you? Was your childhood kind of rough?"

Belthazor's eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, the mask of his defiance slipped. It seemed like I had touched upon a sore spot, revealing a vulnerability he tried to hide. Well, knowing him from the game, I was well aware of his pathetic backstory.

"How do you know about that?" he shouted, his voice laced with despair. "How can you possibly know?"

I couldn't help but smile at his desperation. "Does it matter, Belthazor? In the end, you find yourself in the same position as before. Your past, your struggles, none of it changes the fact that you are at my mercy."

"Why? Why is this happening?" he cried out, his voice breaking. Tears of blood welled up in his eyes, a manifestation of his shattered spirit.

The once-mighty demon now knelt before me, broken and defeated. The taste of vengeance was sweet, and I reveled in the poetic justice of his downfall.

I didn't know how I looked right now, but it sure wasn't something any normal person would want to see.

I raised my fingers, coating them with the Level 1 spell 「Etheric Claws」.

"Why, you ask?" I said, my voice filled with a mixture of bitterness and hatred. "Why? That was a good question."

I laughed, but there was no joy in it. Instead, my face turned grim as the memories flooded back.

"Why did those demons attack our village? Why did they kill everyone? Why was I the only one who survived? Why….why….why….why….the same fucking question that no one can answer."

I brought my face inches away from Belthazor's, locking my gaze with his. The intensity of my hatred burned in my eyes.

"Why did she die before my eyes? Why wasn't it me? The same fucking question that I ask myself every day."

The pulsating purple glow of Umbralith reflected the darkness in my heart.

"It was because demons like you decided to kill everyone, and that was it," I declared with a cold determination. "So, you should understand why I'm going to do this, right?"

With those words, I brought my mana-coated claws dangerously close to Belthazor's eyes.

"N-no…." His fighting spirit was broken; he was no longer in a state to fight, yet that wasn't enough.

He needed to feel the pain she felt. Every one of them needed to.

"AAAAAAARGHK!"

Just like that, screams started echoing in the cavern…..as the Phantom's Land started crumbling.