Abyss Magic and the Goddess Faith

Pope's Perspective

"Then, the Nightmare has perished?"

"Yes. The perpetrator was previously unknown. The location the Nightmare once claimed as territory has been entirely erased. A secret search was conducted in the surrounding area, but no creatures resembling the Nightmare were discovered."

"Yet it is said the Nightmare can transfer. Is it too early to declare it destroyed?"

"Yes. However, this remains unconfirmed. Reports indicate traces of Abyss Magic at the scene."

"Abyss Magic."

"To be struck directly by a spell said to shatter even the soul and reduce all to nothing—how could any creature capable of transfer possibly avoid annihilation, even if it possesses such ability? My assessment."

"Understood. Proceed under the assumption the Nightmare is destroyed. Now. What of the movements of the Salyera Kingdom?"

"Indeed. The Salyera Kingdom is steadily advancing its war preparations. Troops are currently gathering along the border region."

"Are we being manipulated by that information? Or are they aware of our intentions and playing along? Either way, convenient. Send reinforcements to Outsu Kingdom as planned."

"Already arranged."

"Efficient work."

"I intend to destroy the long-standing enemy, the Goddess Cult, in this war."

"True. The God of Divine Words would likely rejoice. Will you join the front lines yourself?"

"Yes. I wish to judge the heretic who dares claim the title of Goddess, surpassing the God of Divine Words."

"Then I expect great things. You may go."

"Yes. Excuse me."

Dismissed the subordinate, sank deeply into the chair.

Absurd.

The God of Divine Words would never desire such a thing.

Scanned the report.

This is the dossier on the entity known as the Nightmare—a monster that suddenly appeared within the labyrinth and repeatedly exhibited mysterious behavior.

The first recorded sighting occurred when the Empire investigated anomalies within the labyrinth at the request of the Outsu Kingdom.

The investigation team encountered the Nightmare and retreated.

Subsequently, the Empire launched a campaign to exterminate the Nightmare using an elite force.

The outcome was catastrophic: nearly all human members of the force were slaughtered.

Further, it advanced toward the surface, following the path of a fleeing local guide.

It destroyed the fortress guarding the entrance to the Elro Great Labyrinth.

While repeatedly carrying out massacres and destruction, it also demonstrated acts of rescue.

Initially, it rescued adventurers who had been attacked by monsters within the Great Labyrinth.

Later, it appeared in the Saliera Kingdom and rescued Lady Seras Kelen, who had been attacked by thieves.

Established base within the Kelen Barony and began operations from this location.

Expelled the bandits operating within the Kelen Barony.

The loss of our undercover operatives, disguised as bandits, was a significant setback.

Possesses advanced healing magic—also treats civilians.

These actions have led some within the Goddess Cult to equate her with the Spider Servant described in doctrine. In the Saliera Kingdom, she is increasingly venerated as a divine beast.

From extracted Imperial intelligence: Dream ability—estimated danger level: Over S.

Possesses multiple unidentified skills.鉴定 process was obstructed mid-progression.

If the obstruction of鉴定 is confirmed, this constitutes an emergency.

It indicates the emergence of a new ruler—specifically, one of monstrous origin.

Nevertheless, based on the previous report, the Dream appears to have been destroyed.

A being capable of wielding Abyss Magic independently.

Only one being comes to mind—the oldest ruler.

Yet the reason she has moved remains unclear.

The nightmare took the form of a spider-like creature.

Therefore, she was not among her subordinates?

Why would she need to destroy something that was both her subordinate and had risen to become a ruler?

She should have remained hidden and inactive all along.

Why has she moved now?

Too many unknowns.

Worst case, she may intervene in this war.

If that occurs, no amount of human effort will change the outcome.

Only the Administrator could stop her.

Too many variables exist at this time.

The circumstances surrounding the previous Hero’s death remain unknown.

The movements of the Demon Clan have become more active.

And yet, the newly appointed Hero is Julius—a young boy.

The oldest divine beast begins to move.

The mysterious new ruler slain by the divine beast.

The world is in turmoil.

No matter how extensive and efficient the Church’s intelligence network is, there are limits.

What is happening in the world?

“Excuse me. The guest has arrived.”

A voice calls through the sound of knocking.

“Ah, wait—!?”

Before I can respond, the door opens, and a woman with her head concealed by a hood enters the room.

The secretary tries to stop her, but the woman strides inside without hesitation.

“Very well. You may leave.”

A signal is given to the secretary, who departs.

“And so? What is your purpose, Potimas Haifenas?”

The woman removes her hood.

Beneath it: a striking face, and pointed ears.

An elf.

“After such a long time, is this how we greet each other?”

"Not exactly old friends. If you're standing before me in your true form, I suppose I could welcome you warmly enough."

"That's frightening."

Potimas shows no reaction to the killing intent I project.

"What is it? I'm busy. I don't have time for someone like you."

"Then I'll be direct. The two humans you're protecting. We want them handed over."

"What?"

"You know it well. That child with the mysterious skill you're sheltering."

I cross my arms at Potimas's words.

Indeed, I am protecting two humans with the mysterious skill "n% I = W," one of whom is under surveillance.

The skill appeared suddenly, its effects unknown—difficult to manage, even for me. Why would an elf want them?

"Why?"

Those among us elves who possess this skill are not welcomed. Yet killing them is not possible. Therefore, we have decided they must be kept alive in confinement.

Do you know the skill’s effects?

Only speculation.

Will you reveal its contents?

Only if you promise to hand over the child.

Hmph.

No need to consider.

I decline.

Is that truly necessary?

I will do nothing beneficial for your kind. You are already a greater harm to the world than I could ever be.

Harsh words. We only wish to live in peace.

And what right do you have to speak such nonsense? Disgusting. You may execute that doppelgänger here and now, if you wish.

That would be troublesome. Then I shall take my leave. Should you change your mind, you are welcome to return.

The only time I shall stand before you of my own will is when I intend to kill you.

You frighten me.

Watching the retreating back of Potimas.

An elf who feeds on the world.

One day, that barrier must be broken. The elves must be expelled.

But for now, the Goddess Cult takes precedence.

That religion is dangerous.

Because the legends spoken of are true.

I must destroy it while I still live.

That is my duty as Pope of the Divine Word Cult.

How absurd. The Divine Word Cult and the Goddess Cult revere the same deity.