Chapter 243 - 867 - 875

Gloomwood Castle

"Thank you, Ley!" Rafiniya's voice sounded after a while.

The female knight was no fool. She knew that without Leylin, they really would have died at the hands of the ogres, disappearing into their mouths. She obviously didn't want to die like that, and just the thought of it already left her in fear.

All those adventure books were scams! There were no romantic heroes and beautiful princesses. Rather, there were thieves and bandits, as well as ogres who ate people alive!

"So… Now that your fantasies have been destroyed, will you still continue adventuring?" Leylin asked in curiosity.

"Of course. This is my path as a knight!" The female knight's voice was filled with resolution. "As long as I can endure, evil will be destroyed by my hands one day. With my work, the world will regain its beauty!"

"…" Leylin rolled his eyes speechlessly. This directionally-challenged moron seemed to show no signs of waking up to reality.

"What kind of expression is that?"

"No, I was just thinking that you're very suited to becoming a paladin of the God of Justice. Really!"

...

Thankfully, the Goddess of Luck finally showed mercy on them, allowing their little group to leave the region where the ogres had wreaked havoc.

If not, once Leylin was surrounded by the ogres, he would probably abandon everyone and make a path for himself to escape. Besides him, everyone, including the warhorse Nick, would become rations and jerky for the ogres.

"Are they all confused because of the commander's death?" On the way, he bumped into a few members of the merchant groups who had been separated, and even a few thieves and the like.

It was a pity for them that even Rafiniya had learnt to steel her resolve. The high-ranked female knight who had regained a portion of her strength did not need much energy to take care of these people.

All that had continued until this day, when a small city with a black wall appeared in front of Leylin.

"We're here, this is Gloomwood Castle. After this place, we will reach the central plains of the Dambrath Kingdom, the territories there managed by people directly subordinate to the king." After seeing this city, Rafiniya screamed in joy. Hera and Yalani smiled, looking as if a weight had been lifted from their shoulders.

They were only halfway through their long trip, but the exhaustion and terror was more than enough to leave them in fear.

"Halt! Stop the vehicle for an inspection!" At the city gate, Leylin's group of strangely-dressed adventures were immediately stopped by the guards.

'Oh? These soldiers seem pretty strong… And they're Professionals who have seen blood already.' Leylin saw Hera going up ahead to negotiate with them, his brows furrowing slightly. With his experience, he could obviously see that the guards were stronger than usual. They could even be people in charge of Professional groups, incomparable to the previous party.

He could sense tens of elite archers aiming their weapons at this area from the shadows, leaving him with a sense of danger.

'To even give me a sense of danger… These archers should have equipment like the Spellslayer Arrow. How wealthy…' Leylin shot a glance towards the top of the city wall discreetly, and then maintained a nonchalant face as he looked at Hera and the rest.

After checking the proof that they were mercenaries and nobles, the middle-aged soldier who seemed to be the leader headed over to them.

"Terrible events have occurred at Gloomwood Castle lately. Don't stay long if you don't have business here."

"Thank you for kind intentions. Officer, is this about the ogres?" A hint of curiosity showed in Hera's eyes.

"The ogres? They're far from real devils…" The middle-aged soldier sneered, but did not elaborate. Only when he passed by Leylin and the other mercenaries did he warn them, "Don't stir up trouble inside, or else…"

His threatening words immediately angered Rafiniya. Leylin and Old Pam, on the other hand, had met such situations before. They rolled their shoulders back in answer, though it was not obvious whether they truly took heed of the advice.

"Hmph…" The leader did not argue about this with Hera, looking disappointed. He waved his hand, "Go on!"

"The strength of this legion doesn't lose out to the ogre tribes…" Leylin hung his head, eyes flickering with wit.

'Seems like the kingdom's power and soldiers are the true trump cards of the human race in the World of Gods. Those inferior mercenary groups can't be compared at all…' Leylin could finally see the aura of a nation's soldiers, with as many sharp swords as there were trees in the forest and as many pikes as there were thorns in a bush. They might even have the support of wizards and priests. The mid-ranked officer just now had an aura very similar to a high-ranked warrior, and he had evidently gone through numerous battles. The aura of someone who had seen blood in battle was something most mercenaries could not match.

'With how he spoke, something definitely happened here…' The desolate streets and the tight security in the city left Leylin frowning.

"We plan to rest here for a while. We might also need to buy a carriage and recruit a few more mercenaries…" Hera said once they found an inn, looking tired as she spoke to Leylin and the rest.

"Mm, we do need a new carriage." Rafiniya was obviously approved of this plan. They had finally made it to a human city with great difficulty, and she could not wait to get some good rest. For a lady of nobility, there was nothing harder to endure than filth and grime. It was a pity that there was no lack of these on the journey, especially for mercenaries. That the poor girl hadn't already gone insane showed the resolve she'd gained from her knight training.

Pam approved of this well. He was already itching to exchange the ogre ears for the commission, as well as buy a new batch of rum.

"Alright, we'll meet here three days from now."

Leylin nodded without much care. He was now slightly curious about the events in Gloomwood Castle.

"Wait, Ley! Your friend is in need of your help! My injuries need healing from a priest…" When the time to part came, Old Pam grasped Leylin firmly, eyes gleaming with tears.

Looking at the state he was in, Leylin had no choice but to roll his shoulders back and bring Old Pam, with his broken leg, along. The dwarf worshipped the God of Warriors anyway, and the church wasn't too far off from the Mercenary Guild.

"Divine spell— Cure Moderate Wounds!" Holy light shone from the priest's hands at the church of warriors, and the injury on Pam's thigh quickly recovered. A new layer of tender flesh grew out.

"The fee is 5 kronas!" The priest looked pious, but did not lower the fees at all. Most churches functioned by getting money for healing the wounds of their followers.

The gods needed money themselves to construct their extravagant churches. More importantly, they needed to lure in worshippers with more generous conditions. Old Pam, who was usually miserly, paid up happily and did not dare take advantage of this at all. Only after he left the church did he look regretful.

"If not for our employer wanting to leave in the next few days, Old Pam would rather look for a doctor or potioneer. Damn it, 5 kronas! How many bottles of rum would that get me… Oh, mighty God, Old Pam did not say that on purpose…"

Old Pam continued to mumble, "No! This should be included in the fees we get from our employer. You'll back me up, right, Ley?"

Leylin pretended not to hear anything, walking to the entrance of the Mercenary Guild with the dwarf. Old Pam impatiently exchanged the ogre ears to make up for his losses, while Leylin went to the mission hall.

The hall was much smaller than the one in Emon City. A few mercenaries were seated there, and whether in terms of quality or quantity they seemed to be lacking.

This strange atmosphere was explained after Leylin looked at the mission board.

"High grade mission: Track down traces of devil followers. This mission is extremely dangerous. Please think over it carefully before choosing it."

"High grade mission: Investigate the evil god ceremony in the home of Lord Wokdo."

"High grade mission: Investigate cause of death of Baron Faylen."

Numerous high grade missions were hung up in a row, looking marvellous. It was a pity that few mercenaries dared take them on.

'Interesting. A devil?' A smile rose about Leylin's lips all of a sudden. As he recalled the unusual mobilisation of the troops, as well as the worried look on the mid-ranked officer's face, everything grew clear.

Gloomwood Castle was in a strange state because of the activities of devil worshippers. These high-difficulty missions were usually left to the churches and nation's troops. It was no wonder that the mercenaries were not interested.

However, them having no interest did not mean that Leylin was the same. He'd always been curious about hell and the devils in this world. Beelzebub's memories had ensured that he knew as much about them as an Archduke, but theory and reality were two separate things.

'Based on his memories, there are nine levels of hell here. Each have their own rulers governing them, as well as a few public regions… To be able to break through the restrictions of the dimension and arrive at the prime material world to spread belief… This is something that only a ruler of the same rank as him could accomplish…'

At his most powerful, the Sovereign King of Gluttony, Beelzebub, was as strong as a Magus who'd comprehended laws. At the very least, he was stronger than the lesser gods here.

It was no wonder then that the traces of devils had set the city on high alert.

The scene that the soul seed had projected at the beginning appeared before his eyes once again. 'I wonder how that little guy Tiff is doing now? He received the power of the soul seed from my main body. If he managed to adapt to it, he should be rather strong now…'

One After Another

When their souls had first battled for control of the body, Leylin had managed to help Tiff out, bestowing formidable powers on him. It was intended to be an experiment; not only would a surviving Tiff be of huge aid to him, but it would also give him some rare results.

How could he not have left himself a counter against the powers he had originally bestowed? Furthermore, who could compare to the ancient Magi with regards to the control over the soul force.

'My soul force wasn't originally accustomed to the laws of the World of Gods, and couldn't help but diminish continually. But Tiff was a native. Hence, there was still a possibility that he could be sustained by absorbing the powers that I left him. In view of that, his stats would…' Something flashed in Leylin's eyes.

It made sense for soul force from other worlds to be unable to survive in the World of Gods. But the strength that Leylin left for Tiff was like a seed, and it changed him completely. Furthermore, as long as the foundation was there, no matter how far Tiff advanced in the future, he would not be able to resist the influence Leylin held over him.

If Leylin exploited him correctly, Tiff would be an advantageous pawn for him.

'I was staying overseas back then, and did not care much about the mainland. Thus, I also didn't ask about Tiff, but it's an entirely different matter now. The time is ripe,' Leylin decided.

"Greetings, copper-ranked mercenary, sir! Can I help you?" The maid behind the counter asked in a professional but mechanical tone after she saw the identify proof Leylin handed over. It was all she'd do for a copper-ranked mercenary.

"Show me the details of the top 3 missions!" Leylin wasn't bothered at all about it.

"The missions of those devil worshippers?" The girl raised her head, and scanned at Leylin with a look of derision. "Superior missions could only be accepted by a mercenary ranked gold and above, so please work on raising your grade!"

"I was not thinking of taking it, I just wanted to catch a glimpse of the report. I remember all mercenaries have the authority to do this, am I not right?" Leylin furrowed his brows.

"That- That's right…" The maid unwillingly replied. It was probably her first time encountering someone like Leylin, "But details are only free for those at the silver grade and above, you have to pay 10 coppers!"

"That's no problem at all!" Under her contemptuous gaze, Leylin threw 10 coppers on the table and grabbed the documents from her hands, before heading towards the corner seat to look into them. Being able to obtain information for such a price was already a profit for him.

But after reading the first few sentences, Leylin's expression darkened. Surprise, astonishment and all sorts of other expressions flashed across his face before it landed on a sinister smile, "Old friend…"

He dropped his eyes to one of the sentences,

"…the victim's carcass was badly damaged and parts of the flesh were missing…"

"…when the Baron was found, he was kneeling on the ground in a bizarre manner, pouring blood. His tongue was severed and forced down his throat…"

"…the soldiers launched surprise attacks on a few dangerous locations but gained nothing in return. The thieves found pentagrams used to commune with other dimensions in the flooring of the house, and determined it to be the coordinates to the ninth level of hell…"

'A sacred emblem with the image of a twisted fang… Only devotees of Beelzebub would adopt such a method of murder…' Leylin smiled as he read on. If he had to choose a devil to face, he'd definitely choose this one whom he'd fooled previously.

'The fellow should still be asleep. The region of hell that he was occupying will soon be overturned. Furthermore, he is unable to receive prayers nor provide spells for his followers, their faith might be challenged…' Leylin's eyes shone, he's found the perfect prey.

'If you piece all these reports together, it's the prelude to a big bloody sacrificial ceremony, and the target is that Beelzebub…' Leylin's rich experiences along with Beelzebub's memories allowed him to see everything clearly within seconds.

'I'm afraid this is those worshippers' last resort, given that they haven't been able to communicate with him for a long time.' Leylin's expression wasn't looking too great. Big, bloody sacrificial ceremonies would affect the whole city, and the death toll would number greater than a thousand.

But of course, all this was useless. No matter how much they sacrificed, Beelzebub would not regain consciousness. Instead, this would attract hostility from the gods. Most importantly, Leylin would be dragged into this whole mess!

'Well, I guess I'll gladly receive Beelzebub's followers.' This empty church had lost the protection of its god, and was also compatible with the law of devouring he had grasped. To Leylin, this hollow shell was a big present.

Though most of the members were the cruelest dregs of society, or even unusual beings and demonic creatures, its sheer size was enough to make Leylin jealous. He had to accumulate all of this himself to become a god in the future.

As for Beelzebub, he was long out of Leylin's consideration. He walked out happily with his gains, and turned into a dark alley…

Once he made sure nobody was around, Leylin's aura transformed into that of a god. "My follower, Tiff!" he made a solemn call, and a strange energy dispersed.

Moments later, Leylin opened his eyes, his expression looking weird, 'With such a short distance, is he in the Dambrath Kingdom?'

A dark shadow was moving at great speeds through the broad plains. It stopped all of a sudden, revealing a pale, aged face.

He looked emotional, and was even tearing up. He immediately knelt on the ground as he managed to choke out his next words, "My great lord, Kukulkan! Have you finally heard me?"

This man looked a lot like Tiff, but it wasn't the boy from back then anymore. A large amount of energy circulated around his body.

"My God…" Tiff looked staunch after his prayer. Ever since Eldath's church had destroyed everything he had, he'd set himself on the path of rebellion. This was why he was a wanted criminal throughout the World of Gods.

Thankfully, the power Leylin left him back then helped him through the toughest period of his life. As a result, the bogus about Kukulkan that Leylin had once made up had warped into his absolute faith.

"I can't believe I felt the power of you as I went out to keep an eye on the devil worshippers, my Lord…" Tiff's body compressed into a stream of shadows, and sped towards Gloomwood Castle. He was even faster than a rank 15 Professional.

...

At the same time, in the campsite of the ogres.

*Roar! Roar!* The ogre warriors waved the large warhammers in their hands in they fought, using magic as an aid every now and then. It was a pity that all of their efforts were nothing but a joke to the paladins.

'Smite Evil!' 'Divine Punishment!' Piercing holy light shot out from Lorent's sword, and broke an ogre's warhammer in a split second with its immense strength before slicing his head off. On the other hand, the clerics who had mastered divine spells from the God of Justice were also killing off the ogre shamans with no issues.

"How dare you see humans as food! The sins of this ogre tribe are unforgivable!" Lorent wiped his sword on the skin of one of the ogres beside him, and flashed a face of disgust. Flesh started showing.

"The vile ogres only deserve death!" The ogres in the campsite fell into chaos, merely ants to the high-ranked paladins and priests.

A ear-piercing growl sounded from the other side before low gasps and silence ensued. It was unsettling.

"Managed to get anything out of them?" Lorent looked at their team's interrogation officer as he walked out, hands still freshly dyed in the ogres' blood.

"They don't have the biggest brains, and what they do have is reserved for fighting and eating. Even if I tried my best, the only information I got was that their leader was killed by a human wizard who then escaped…" The officer looked mildly disappointed, "If only we could use A memory extracting spell… But that would be trespassing into the domain of evil…"

Lorent was discontented with the officer's attitude and mindset, but he did not want to create any conflicts at this point in time. "That is enough… At the very least, the possibility of the wizard being Leylin is high…

"It was probably this ogre tribe that attacked them first, forcing them to retaliate…" he said as he nodded.

"Then what are we waiting for now, let's chase after them! My tools are getting impatient…" The officer licked his lip, his disgusting and sinister expression making Lorent look away. He wondered how someone like this managed to sneak into the investigative team.

The team continued their journey after sweeping the ogre site clean and headed towards Gloomwood castle.

...

"I'm afraid I can't stay for long…"

Leylin was changing his disguise at the moment. Things that could expose his identity, like the Ring of Wizardry, could absolutely not be worn. He even had to alter his hair colour and change his face's shape.

'But, judging by the God of Justice's hatred for devils, if his followers find out that there are devil worshippers within this castle, would he still put in so much effort and look for me?' Leylin smiled sinisterly.

Act

Leylin looked at himself in the mirror, and was satisfied with his new appearance. He originally looked like a westerner in the World of Gods, with bright golden blonde hair and clear blue eyes. However, his locks were now dyed black, and his eyes were a rich dark with blood-red sclera. His new appearance Exuded a never-ending aura of evil.

"With this extent, I don't think anyone will associate me with the young master of the Faulen Family." Leylin wore a sinister looking silver mask over his face and disappeared into the darkness.

Obviously, a change in appearance wouldn't be enough. Thus, when Leylin reappeared his whole body seemed to have undergone an even greater and more terrifying transformation. He looked as if he were someone wrapped in mysteries, sinister energy encircling his body with a charming trace of the power of laws.

Once all the brilliant energy had fused into his body, Leylin completely resembled a devil who had ascended from hell, and even the aura of his soul had changed. A sense of power and danger emanated from his body in waves, and the surrounding space seemed to fold in on itself, as if everything was being devoured.

This was divinity! Only a divine power could accomplish this! Leylin had now become a divine being who grasped some power in the domain of devouring!

'This imitation isn't bad at all.' Leylin looked at his new self and nodded in approval. His understanding of the law of devouring had already reached a peak. Only after he acquired Beelzebub's divine force and divinity could he advance to become a rank 7 Magus. In the World of Gods, this would be considered as having achieved godhood.

His understanding of the law would not disappear with reincarnation. Though it was tough to create and draw out divinity from nothing, it was still an effortless task for the A.I. Chip to imitate the aura and appearance of a divine being with the power of devouring.

'I definitely cannot ascend to godhood solely in the domain of devouring. Even if I do that, I'm afraid I'll be sent straight to hell. Even if I'm going to go there in the end, I can't be thrown down so passively…'

There was also another advantage of being in his current form. Divine beings were practically immune to scrying spells, and Leylin, an otherworldly guest, was obviously immune too. It would be an absolute joke if anyone tried to gain more information on him through scrying.

"The show has begun," Leylin turned his gaze to the bright moon before his silhouette suddenly blurred and disappeared into the darkness.

Most of Beelzebub's truesoul and divinity had been devoured by Leylin, along with a hundred thousand years of his memories as a devil. Thus, all of his followers were nothing but tragic beings in front of Leylin.

Everything was stored in his A.I. Chip, included Beelzebub's methods to communicate with them, or his habits and disposition and even the list of bishops and demons in different regions of the prime material plane.

Beelzebub's followers were unable to hide from Leylin, and thus Leylin had already made his plans after strolling about the castle.

Leylin's deified incarnation arrived in front of a vast building. Two guards there were loyally carrying out their responsibilities, making sure the entrance was secure.

'Even security officers fell to the attacks, no wonder they could carry out the blood sacrifice of an entire city so brazenly…' Leylin put both his hands behind his back and swaggered into the mansion.

The moment he stepped into the vicinity, he couldn't help but take a deep breath at the aura of evil within. He would have been completely unable to sense the soul undulations so precisely without the divinity that his current body possessed. Evil forces continued to circulate in Leylin's surroundings, making the glow of his imitated godhood even brighter. It seemed as if it was turning his pretense into reality.

'Eye of the Divine!' Through his imitated divine powers, Leylin was able to use something like magic to make himself invisible to the tight security. Once he passed through, he followed his instinct to a descending passageway behind a rock garden that was obviously concealed.

"The stench of human blood… and the aura of low-ranked devils…" Leylin sniffed, but did not plan on making his way further.

"Who's that?" His movement had alerted a nearby watchman, but he deliberately lowered his voice, seeming like he didn't want to blow the matter up.

But in the darkness, a handful of otherworldly beings have already felt their way towards Leylin, obviously with the intention of mounting a sneak attack. However, when he saw these creatures up close, he didn't know whether to laugh or to cry at the sight of them. "Are these what you are relying on? Devil priests like these? Is this an insult?"

Through his night vision, he had already seen who his attacker was—an amalgamation of badly damaged human carcass parts and heads. It looked like a massive ball of flesh. This inferior devil was of the lowest grade, and it was also the most common cannon fodder in the ninth level of hell.

The A.I. chip sent over the creature's data to him.

[Inferior devil. Strength: 3 Agility: 1 Vitality: 5 Spirit: 0.1 Description: This is a common magical creature found in hell, usually a reincarnation of deceitful humans. Its IQ equates to that of a retarded human, and it is easily controlled by high-ranked devils. Feats: 1. Fire Immunity, Poison Immunity. 2. Cold Resistance. 3. Acid Attack]

"Scram, you lowly ants!" Leylin said icily, using the language of the devils of hell.

Instantly, those poor devils were rendered completely defenceless under Leylin, someone who was as good as a near Archdevil. They immediately fell under his control.

The watchmen were left in shock, "W-Who are you exactly?"

"You aren't qualified to know that."

They did not dare to retaliate even as Leylin walked further in. Naturally, that was perhaps because they felt the intrinsic quality of a devil within him. Once he pushed through a door covered in fresh blood curses, a room that looked like a dining hall appeared in front of Leylin.

Fresh, steaming flesh was laid on the long dining table, and many worshippers raised their heads to look at Leylin who was an unwanted and unexpected guests. In their shock, they forgot to even wipe off the remnant blood from the side of their lips.

"What's going on? Sybar, why did you let an outsider in?" The plump noble seated right in the centre sounded unhappy, and put on an resentful expression.

'The bloody banquet. Isn't this another one of Beelzebub's favourite ceremonies?' Leylin recognised the ceremony being conducted.

"All you maggots, can't you tell?" Leylin's voice was low but powerful, exploding with the dignity of divinity.

"This- This is the divine force of our Lord!" A devil priest yelped out of surprise, and the whole room suddenly followed him as they knelt down before Leylin.

"My Lord, you haven't made contact with your followers for 20 years…" Tears filled the eyes of the priest.

"I have received the gift of our Lord and have become his Chosen and his substitute to lead you! Any objections?" Leylin announced bluntly.

Pretending to be Beelzebub's Chosen and a divine being would allow Leylin to take control of all his followers as well as his priest network in the prime material world.

This was Leylin's goal. He'd grown jealous of what was formed by a hundred thousand years of operations by an Archdevil. Moreover, he already had the Manderhawke Plate.

"None at all!" The priest was the first to surrender his loyalty to Leylin, dropping to his knees and kissing Leylin's boots.

"Hold up, even if he has the favour of our Lord and and has gained divinity, what give him the rights to take control of us completely?" A royal raised up his opinion from the crowd, feeling like his interests were breached.

But he was silenced shortly after. A crimson blade was pinned into his throat in a split second, and the terrifying power of devouring had sucked him dry in no time.

Many took in sharp breaths and others cried out in surprise, "The Devilblood Dagger!"

"Any more objections?" The blade returned to Leylin's hand as the carcass of the royal turned to ash, and in return Leylin gained the respectful gazes of almost everyone in the room. As Beelzebub's worshippers, they definitely knew what the Devilblood Dagger could do.

One had to have sacrificed the flesh of more than ten thousand humans and high-ranked priests to receive such a terrifying weapon. One needed to prove their strength to complete the sacrificial ceremony and survive for so long, and the Devilblood Dagger confirmed Leylin's.

"Great Lord, we pledge our loyalty to you!" Many followers chanted.

"Very well! Our Lord is currently injured and needs time to recover. My mission is to act on behalf of his conscient, and bring together all the churches in the prime material world to restore our Lord's health with enough faith and followers." Leylin said halfheartedly.

"I see…" Most of them had already guessed that Beelzebub was hurt, but at this point in time it was too late for them to turn their backs on Leylin.

"Now, I'll give out the first mission. A team of paladins is heading towards us, I'll need your help." With his divinity, he was a Chosen of the church. He could sometimes even override the church head's authority!

After confirming his identity, Leylin deployed every follower with specific roles and ordered them to stall those paladins. These people were no match for them, but they were proficient at plots to stall time, as well as scheming and intrigue.

False God

"In addition, stop performing large-scale blood sacrifices. There's no need for such obstructive activity before you hear further from me, especially something that'll attract the attention of the churches," Leylin reminded them again before leaving.

"Of course, Chosen of our Lord!" The devil priest answered without hesitation, not that he had any authority to go against Leylin's words. Moreover, the reason for their enormous blood sacrifices was to attract Beelzebub's attention. Now that he had already sent a substitute, there was no need for that anymore.

"Lord's substitute, please grant us your name!" The aged devil priest plucked up his courage to ask right before Leylin left.

"My name?" Leylin smirked beneath his mask. "My name is Kukulkan!"

The power of faith essentially came from fear and obedience, respect and admiration, or from one's soul force. Godhood originated from that as well. With a specific name, great power, and falsely assuming the identity of Beelzebub's Chosen, he could win the reverence of these devil worshippers. He could even disseminate and spread Beelzebub's faith before usurping everything.

However, this was the only mature organisation of Beelzebub's that Leylin found somewhat acceptable. When he would build his own church in the future, these people would not be of much help. After all, Leylin would not want his own church to be a gathering point for devil worshippers.

The next step was to cancel certain blood sacrifices and evil rituals that violated his core values. This was the domain of a benevolent god, and also an essential step for a divine being to gain extensive approval in the prime material plane.

"Lord Kukulkan, we will do as you wish and prepare for the recovery of our Lord!" Leylin was startled from his reverie as he watched the devil followers shouting his name loudly. A special energy akin to soul force enveloped him within the zealous ambience.

The false divine power of devouring almost went out of control and wanted to swallow this energy to transform completely, but Leylin resisted it.

'The power of faith?' Leylin signed internally before disappearing into a private room.

"You heard the Lord's orders!" The devil priest straightened his back and looked at all of the followers, especially directing his gaze at the nobles. Having lost the powers that the devil bestowed upon him, the arrival of this divine being allowed him to regain some confidence.

"Get the tasks done quickly so that we can welcome those paladins of the God of Justice!" There was no room for reconciliation between devil worshippers and paladins. If they met, it would be a fight to the death.

While one paladin was more than enough to slaughter an entire room of devil worshippers, strategy, allocation of manpower, and hidden actions would make things difficult for them.

"Of course!" A few of the nobles laughed sinisterly, the shadows they cast on the wall behind them looking like terrifying demons themselves.

...

'I can't believe I have to play to dress up as god and play the devil twice in a day…' Leylin had currently arrived outside the city.

He looked around vigilantly. His appearance of a powerful divine being was but a pretense, and he himself was only a rank 10 wizard. Had the devil worshippers just now rebelled against him, he was not sure that he'd have been able to suppress them. However, as he'd borrowed the superior aura of a high-ranked devil, he was certain he wouldn't lose out.

However, him pretending to be a divine being, on top of his possession of the Devilblood Dagger, was enough to scare the hell out of those followers. Moreover, those who had offered sacrifices to the devils already had shackles on their souls. If they did not wish to be tortured even after death, they had to act according to Leylin's wishes.

'Compared to dealing with those low-ranked followers, this needs more attention…' Leylin pulled himself together with a slight sigh, and a thread of flames appeared on his figure, taking the shape of a flame-winged serpent. The small blaze lit up the Gloomwood, giving off a demonic feeling.

'He's here!' Leylin turned quickly. A black spirit was running towards him so quickly that it couldn't be followed by the naked eye.

'Advanced Barrier!' 'Advanced Protection!' 'Advanced Invisibility!' A few enormous spell barriers were erected, separating the area from the outside world completely.

'A high-ranked Professional? No, he's even stronger than Odge and Boruj, almost a Legend…' Leylin inwardly assessed as the person he was thinking of arrived in front of him.

"Tiff!" Formidable divine power circulated around the area, making Leylin seem like a god as he called out to Tiff. At the same time, the aura of his original form also rolled off his body.

"You're not my God, but you have his power!" Tiff was indeed standing in front of Leylin, but he did not look like his previous self. His hair was now greying at the temples, and his vigilant eyes glared unwaveringly at Leylin.

Leylin felt several different probing spells targeted at him immediately, and if not for the fact that he was the original body and had the A.I. Chip's help in concealing his abilities, it would be have been difficult to deal with the fellow.

Brilliant divine power floated above Leylin's hand as he stared Tiff in the eye, "So, do you still have any suspicions?"

"I wouldn't dare! You are the favoured one of my Lord!" Tiff pressed his right hand to his chest as a form of respect and bowed, showing his acknowledgement of Leylin's identity.

Strong beings like this were not easily subdued. Honestly, if Tiff were to make any moves, he would have found out that Leylin was only a pretentious false god. Once he figured that out, taking care of Leylin would be as easy as popping a bubble.

"Since you've summoned me, what can I help you with?" Tiff still looked suspicious about the whole situation.

"Our Lord has already defeated the Archdevil Beelzebub and I've received orders to take over everything Beelzebub has in the prime material plane!" He kept to the truth. Tiff was the one person Leylin trusted the most here, even if he seemed doubtful of everything right now.

Even if the boy decided to go against him, Leylin could use the power he'd formerly left with Tiff to make him turn back.

'However, he was able to use the energy I left behind as a foundation to receive magical powers and become similar to a bloodline holder… Or should I say half-chose? He's somewhat talented…' Leylin seemed to have already seen beyond Tiff's facade.

"You've defeated the Archdevil? The Sovereign King of Gluttony?" Tiff's voice involuntarily cracked. He had obviously heard about this earth-shaking rumour. The loyalty of these worshippers, who'd already lost the magic abilities bestowed by the devil, had long been shaken. Some information had spread out.

Worshippers in the prime material plane were shallow. If Leylin had waited to make his move a couple of decades later, Beelzebub's people would have almost completely disappeared. Thankfully, that was not the case.

"Mm. I'll need your help, how much manpower do you have in the Dambrath Kingdom?" Leylin asked. Unless his background wasn't optimal, a near-legend like Tiff would have a certain amount of influence.

"I've created an organisation with faith in our Lord. There are fewer than 300 followers right now, and the highest ranked among them is a Baron…" Tiff clenched his teeth, and told Leylin unwillingly. The familiar soul suppression was too strong on him, and he had no choice but to speak the truth.

'An organisation in worship of me?' Leylin was pretty taken aback. 'To sustain a miniature organisation without the support of divine power… He has a lot of potential…'

The difference between true and false gods was that one could grant their priests divine spells and other powers, ranging in ranks from rank 1 to rank 9. With the great power separating their planes and the prime material plane, the highest rank of spell a powerful devil or demon could bestow upon their worshippers was rank 5. Anything past that would require a blood sacrifice to go through, or have some other such restriction. This type of worship of false gods would suffer a unanimous crackdown by the true gods.

Demigods were similar. Without enough power to grant high-ranked spells to their followers, they were not widely spread. The Feathered Snake God, Kukulkan, that Leylin had made up previously was an otherworldly demigod who was still in deep sleep! He would not be able to grant even a rank 1 spell.

Leylin felt a special respect for the fact that Tiff could still sustain worship for Kukulkan under conditions like these, to the extent of enticing a baron. While he'd have used his own methods for it, it was still rather amazing.

'But I can't let this situation continue for too long... I'll soon have to give them some hope!' Leylin decided. A god that was unable to respond to prayers and grant spells would be eliminated like Beelzebub sooner or later.

'If his original form is still recovering from his injuries, it doesn't make sense for me to confer divine spells in his stead!' Leylin's original form as a near rank 7 Magus was from another world after all, and the World Will of the World of Gods was hostile towards his power. Not to mention the amount of energy that would be consumed by crossing the crystal sphere shell. If he were to use his original form to bestow divine spells, he would quickly go bankrupt and even die.

'The only way is to advance to become a Legend is the and condense my divine force. By doing that, I'll have the most basic capability to respond to my followers.' Leylin gritted his teeth.

"Devout follower of our Lord, Tiff! I have something for you to do. Let us meet at the capital city of the Dambrath Kingdom."

Fiancé

After listening to Leylin's declaration, Tiff glanced at him with a serious look. It resembled the sharp gaze of a hawk, as if he was trying to pierce through the defense of the divine power to see Leylin's true form.

"I follow my God's will!" Tiff disappeared into mid-air after finished his sentence, and everything that had just occurred seemed like an illusion.

'He has magic abilities similar to a Chosen of my original form, and he's a high-ranking ranger or thief…' Something flashed across Leylin's eyes as he headed back to Gloomwood Castle.

He wasn't worried in the least about having his identity leaked. After all, his divine powers were enough to keep everyone in the dark. Even if Tiff eventually found out that he was Leylin Faulen, he would be under the impression that Leylin had received favour from his original form and had divine powers bestowed upon him.

'Well, now that I have Tiff I can launch many of my plans…' Though it was already confirmed that Leylin would take over all of Beelzebub's followers, he still needed someone to take over the operation and carry out the work of a commander. It looked like Tiff was very suitable for that position.

Apart from being sufficiently powerful, he had good leadership abilities as well. If the conditions were right in the future, he wanted to nurture Tiff into his first pope.

"Pouring power into the natives, and allowing then to adapt and change into a form that is accepted in the World of Gods… This is a very good issue to pursue." Leylin had a profound look in his eyes.

Through his short time with Tiff just now, Leylin had already learnt much from the energy that emitted off his body. It had given him a general direction for his plan to induct Magi into the World of Gods.

"This method of forcibly pouring power into a subject should have failed for sure. My success with Tiff was a fluke, and should be considered a rare case." Given his experiments in various worlds, Leylin was sure of this, "Thus, I'll still have to observe this specimen, and test how it will change under different circumstances…"

Leylin immediately ducked into an alleyway. When he reappeared, he had already returned to his appearance of a mercenary.

"Well, I guess I can only scare people with my divine form…" Leylin sighed and returned to the inn.

"I, Rafiniya, a high-ranked knight, successor of the way of the knight, pledge my life to fight against evil."

Before he stepped into the door, the young female knight's voice could already be heard and that gave Leylin an immediate migraine.

"What's going on?" He walked in suspiciously before seeing a fully-armoured Rafiniya raising the knight sword in her hand in a pledge.

"Oh! Heavens! Ley you're finally back!" Old Pam waved his hand at the side and said, "This lady knight here was all ready to fight upon hearing that there were traces of devil worshippers in the castle. No one was able to persuade her…."

Hera, who was standing beside Old Pam, couldn't help but smile helplessly. As for Yalani, she had already had enough of everyone and escaped to her room.

"Don't those devil followers run rampant at night? I want to rescue the innocent commoners from the hands of these devils! Ley, let's do it together, shall we?" Rafiniya spoke righteously, but unfortunately she seemed to have grown more sensible, as she was ready to drag the powerful-looking Leylin along.

"My dear Miss…" Leylin was rendered speechless too, "Look at the time now, please rest soon!"

Honestly speaking, why would he go against his own men? Were Rafiniya to go alone, it would probably end up with him saving her instead of her saving the world. She just might have ended up repenting her choices from within the stomachs of those worshippers.

"Rest? The people of the city are currently suffering from the devastation of devils and you want me to rest?" Rafiniya looked holy and staunchly declared, "None of you shall stop me!"

"Then, do you still remember the rule that all knights need to abide by? To keep their promises?" Leylin sat down, and even had the mood to ask the servants for a pot of red tea and some snacks. After all, he had been so busy the whole night that he ought to have some rest.

"Knight Commandment 54: I must comply with the contract and keep my promises and oaths!" Rafiniya was rather familiar with that.

"Good! So don't forget, you're still under Hera for now!" Leylin wiped his lips gracefully with the napkin, "What if your employer decided to leave the castle tomorrow?"

"That's right! Rafiniya, I'll be leaving tomorrow to head towards the Dambrath Kingdom!" Hera caught on to Leylin's acting real quick and continued the show and spoke meekly, "You won't abandon me and my sister, would you?"

"I-" Rafiniya froze, the two knightly virtues of defending the just and keeping her promises circling her mind. She looked very conflicted.

Hera only managed to thank Leylin after they'd managed to send Rafiniya back to her room, "This is all thanks to you, Ley! If not I'm really afraid of what Rafiniya would have done."

"Don't mention it, I wanted to leave earlier too. After all, anything that has the least bit of contact with the devils will always be problematic.." Leylin was speaking against his conscience, but it received agreements from both Hera and Old Pam. The horrible image of the devils had long been deeply ingrained into the minds of commoners by the gods.

This was especially true of Hera, Hera who decided to give up on her original plans to rest. There were still many cities they could rest in on the way, and they didn't necessarily have to stay here and deal with the devils. Even if Leylin hadn't mentioned it first, Hera had plans of leaving earlier.

"Then, I guess, goodnight everyone! We're leave here tomorrow, as soon as possible!" Leylin rose to bid them all goodnight, but he was smiling in his heart. Due to his interception, the activities of the devil followers had already been stopped. However, he didn't have to mention that to them.

...

The next day, a well-supplied mercenary team hit the road. Rafiniya sat alone on Nick and led the way with a sulky expression on her face. Hera and the others were sensible enough to not disturb her.

Hera seemed to have learnt her lesson and did not hire any more mercenaries. She only found a more down-to-earth horsekeeper and a horse carriage. It seemed as if she had placed all of her trust and safety in Leylin.

"After we pass Gloomwood Castle, we will reach the central plains of Dambrath Kingdom, which is also the most important agricultural base. The king has gathered most of the military force here and the security of this place is generally great."

Honestly, Leylin thought that if the sisters were bold enough, it would be completely safe to continue the journey with just a few servants. But they were evidently shocked by the ogres previously, and would rather raise the commission than leave Leylin's side.

"But to be able to hire a high-ranked knight and a rank 10 wizard with this price, it's still considered not bad." Leylin didn't have any other opinions. He didn't feel pressed for time currently. After all, whatever plans he'd left behind were enough to stall those paladins for a long time.

It was definitely impossible for the devil worshippers to face up against paladins, but they could indeed admirably fulfil the task of delaying them without showing any traces of themselves. This was sufficient time for Leylin to reach the Dambrath Kingdom with no worries, and he could even start planning his next step with ease.

Thus, he was currently in a relaxed state and even had the mood to tease Rafiniya. Wasn't it the duty of a devil to push a pure and resolute person to hell? Though Leylin only held the memories of an Archdevil, he wouldn't mind giving it a try.

As expected, everything was like what Leylin had predicted. After entering the central plains, the security of the surroundings became much better and they could see little villages along the sides of the roads. There were even standby guards and patrolling militia.

Large-scaled bandit organisations would not be able to survive here. As for ogres and other dangerous beasts? They were wiped out by the king's men long ago. The only few exceptions that Leylin and gang met were small-scaled bandit groups with fewer than 20 members. Even Old Pam could face them, not to mention Rafiniya.

Days later, the outline of a huge city started showing in the horizon.

"We're finally here! Dambrath's capital!" Hera pulled the curtain of the carriage to the side, and excitement filled her eyes. If not for Leylin and the rest, she and her younger sister might have already died on their way here.

"Dambrath Kingdom, it is rumoured that the first generation king killed an evil dragon along with his followers and distributed the earnings from the dragons to the commoners. From then on, he built a city and developed it into a kingdom."

Rafiniya couldn't help but show signs of admiration, yet Leylin found it funny. Stories that praised kings like these were nothing out of the ordinary, their sole purpose to make these kings seem more divine and lawful. Well, those civil servants could say anything they wanted, but Leylin would not believe a single world they said.

"Killing an evil dragon? This isn't even an environment that dragons favour…" But obviously, no one cared nor did they hear Leylin's grumbles. Even Yalani peeped her head out of the carriage to check out the surroundings, and listened to Rafiniya's story with glee.

After they'd all reached the capital, Hera brought the horse to an aristocratic area on the east and they arrived in front of a prestigious mansion,

"We were able to reach the capital safely all thanks to you guys! Thank you for all of your protection along the way, my fiancé and I will definitely repay you!" Suddenly, the normally quiet Yalani spoke up, with a trace of arrogance on her face.

Contempt

"Ohoh… Fiancé? Hera, you actually brought your sister here to get married?" Rafiniya was the first to shout, her eyes seemingly full of stars, "Gallant adventurers protecting the beautiful princess, who has come to the imperial capital to meet her prince. There's nothing more romantic than this…"

Pam and Leylin said their congratulations, making Yalani blush a little, but Leylin was rather flabbergasted. He had thought that this journey revolved around Hera, but who would have thought that the final lead was actually Yalani, the young lady who hadn't even reached adulthood yet?

'Plus, her elder sister is the one sending her off to get married? Such a tradition doesn't seem to exist in the kingdom. Did something happen to their elders?' Leylin could sense that something was not right.

Seeing the mercenaries make a racket in front of them, the two bodyguards standing at the gate of the mansion could no longer hold themselves back. "What are you doing? Don't you know that this is the viscount's residence?"

A bodyguard walked out. He was wearing a brand new set of armor, wiped so conscientiously that it was shining without a single speck of dust on it. He towered over Leylin and his company, his eyes filled with disdain.

The reputation mercenaries held in the imperial city was only slightly better than that of bandits and gangsters. They were never a synonym of law-abiding citizens, and the nobles even loathed having any sort of relation to them. It would be so embarrassing!

As for the fiancé and so on? The bodyguard sized up Hera and her sister, who were dressed plainly, and evidently chose not to believe them. Yalani tugged at the hem of her elder sister's skirt, then turned to look at her own clothes. Her family wasn't very well off to begin with, and they had encountered huge misfortune. After a long and arduous journey on foot, even their best clothing would look like beggars' rags.

She and her sister now looked like unsophisticated girls from the countryside, entering the city for the first time.

The young lady lowered her head, and practically wanted to bury her head underground. "Young sir…"

Hera was flushed red, but could only pick herself up and negotiate. "I'm from Emon City…"

She simultaneously took out a small cloth bundle that she treasured. Peeling it open layer by layer, she revealed the medal of a noble family that was in good condition. Perhaps it was the effect of the badge; the bodyguard glanced at Hera before taking the badge in to inform others, even if he was still doubtful.

Leylin and his company waited in the wind for more than half an hour. Rafiniya had grown rather impatient by the time the entrance to the viscount's mansion finally opened slowly. Someone who looked like a butler walked out, his face plastered with a professional smile.

"May I know who is the young miss from the Lanta family?" Hera inhaled deeply and walked forward, with a smile to please. "I'm Hera Lanta! She's my sister, Yalani!"

This was their reality: they had no choice. She and her younger sister had no one to rely on in the imperial city, and they could only attach themselves to Yalani's viscount fiancé if they wanted a good life. They couldn't leave a bad impression on the butler whom he trusted as well.

"Respected young ladies, please follow me in. The viscount is waiting for you!" The butler bowed at the side.

"Also… They are the mercenaries I hired. I was able to make it safely to the imperial city all thanks to them…" Hera looked over at Leylin and the rest and explained herself.

"Mercenaries?!" Disdain was apparent in the butler's eyes, and only Rafiniya, who was riding a warhorse, made him do a double take. "But the viscount only mentioned two ladies…"

"Hera, you guys head in first! We'll just wait a while longer at most…" Leylin smiled as he said to Hera. He glanced at the scornful look in the butler's eyes, and inwardly smiled to himself. 'This expression… Does he treat Hera and her sister like poor relatives who came knocking because they ran out of money? Interesting, interesting!"

Leylin magnanimously forgave the butler's offense because he was watching a show. He even pulled Rafiniya back, someone whose expression showed that she had a belly full of anger, leaving her with no one to vent it on. Leylin was laughing so hard to himself that his stomach was about to start cramping.

Hera sent him an appreciative look, then took her sister's hand as she walked into the entrance.

"Ley, look at them! That expression!" Rafiniya's hair was completely about to explode, like an enraged kitten. "Ahh… I can't take it. At worst, I won't take the commission this time…"

"You don't have to take it if you don't want to, but don't drag the rest of us down…" Leylin's sarcastic blows at the side met with Old Pam's common sentiments. His eyes went watery. "Missy! You can't let poor Old Pam leave without a salary…"

"You haven't gotten your salary? Just the mere ogre ears we got on the way should be enough of a profit…" Rafiniya mumbled to herself, but her temper did not flare up.

In actual fact, Hera and her sister didn't have many assets to begin with. The two announced that they would raise the commission on the way, but after half the journey their group was stunned; the amount of cash they had on them was not even enough to pay what they'd promised before!

Furthermore, they hadn't paid half of the coachman's commission and the fee for the carriage at the Gloomwood Castle!

Although Rafiniya didn't give a hoot about that little sum of money, she couldn't not care about the others. After hearing what Leylin and Old Pam said, she could only walk away while fuming. "Anyway, I won't demand the money, you guys can split it among yourselves…"

"Oh, Rafiniya! You're really the most kindhearted lady in the world!" The dwarf, Old Pam, immediately cheered. Even the coachman at the side revealed a smile. He had gained a deeper understanding about this strange team of mercenaries after spending time with them.

Rafiniya didn't lack money at all, and neither did the mysterious Ley. The only remaining people who would split the money would be him and Old Pam. People of the lower class never once minded having an extra share, even if it was just a few copper coins.

*Clang!* The main door swung open once again. Yalani's arm was hooked onto a young nobleman's, while Hera and the butler were standing behind them.

"These the mercenaries you employed? There's even a dwarf? I think joining a circus would be more suitable for it… Oh, right, have you seen the the Golden Dwarf Circus?" This youthful nobleman had a wan face and very dark eyebags, making him look like a person whose body had been wasted entirely on wine and women. He appeared very depressed, and completely disregarded Leylin and company, turning around to chat with Hera instead.

"Daniel, Rafiniya and Leylin are both extremely powerful Professionals…" Hera smiled cordially as she began to turn the nobleman's attention to Leylin and the others. "I believe that they'll be of help to you if you win them over…"

Although she had started to notice that Daniel was harbouring malicious intentions, Hera still tried as much as possible to indirectly make her point, even though this made Rafiniya shoot a resentful look at her. She was indeed trying her best to 'help' Leylin and the others from the bottom of her heart.

Rafiniya aside, the only way out for civilian Professionals was to wait upon a noble family. This way, if they did great service decades later, they might be able to receive their master's favour, and obtain the position of an honorary knight or a lord.

With this, they would be able to seek a piece of territory and gain a hereditary title. From then on, they would have entered the ranks of the upper class. In actual fact, that was how Leylin's grandfather started out, just that the person he had vowed his loyalty to was the king.

"Hm… You're right!" Viscount Daniel couldn't help but swallow a mouthful of saliva as he stared at Hera's full bosom. As compared to his fiancée, who was still a young girl, her sister was evidently a much more mature woman. Of course, it would be perfect if he could have both of them.

Under the beauty's pleading, Daniel finally looked at them in the eye reluctantly as he sized them up. "You are very lucky. I, Viscount Daniel, am willing to accept all of you as my followers. Kneel and swear an oath!

"And you! You can be my honorary knight, my personal one…" When his gaze fell on Rafiniya, Daniel's eyes clearly got brighter, and his eyes lingered for a little longer on her slender thighs. His butler, however, was trying his best to bite his lips, and didn't say anything.

He understood his young master's character very well, and knew that he would absolutely turn a deaf ear to any advice. But how could he promise to take them in as followers so easily, especially when there was also a dwarf and a coachman in their party?

However, the young master would regret his decision after a few days at most, and give them a random position as a guard or a servant or something. They would be satisfied anyway.

Even if they were servants, people in the viscount's mansion were a notch higher than average civilians! This was an established theory in the butler's mindset.

"What? Aren't you going to quickly thank the viscount for his grace?" Hera signalled at Leylin and the others with her eyes.

She thought that she had found the best way out for these mercenaries. After all, compared to living a life of brushes with death, what was so bad about being a nobleman's subordinate?

It was an unavoidable fact that although she was sharp-witted, she had a rigid mind. Or perhaps this was the way nobles thought.

"Mighty master, I, Pollan, hereby swear that…" What exceeded her expectations was that Rafiniya, Leylin and even Old Pam did not move an inch, only the coachman leapt forward with bright eyes.

"We are extremely grateful for your kindness, distinguished viscount. Unfortunately, I do not have any intention to serve a noble family. We are here just to settle our commission…"

"You all…" Hera was flushed with anger. This was the first time she felt hateful towards Leylin. How dare he decline her good intentions? Did he not know that there was a world of difference between a noble and a civilian?

Even Rafiniya frowned at this move, not appreciative of Hera's 'kindness'. Now that she thought herself to be the mistress of the viscount's mansion, Leylin's actions instantly made her feel like her pride had been hurt.

Imperial Capital

'Interesting! Her change in status actually brought about such a huge change in her mentality so quickly?' Leylin found it meaningful that the sisters had begun to change so quickly, despite being of the same status as them a little while ago. The mere change in their status made these two sisters act in such an unfamiliar way.

As they required Leylin's protection on their journey, they had chatted with him in an amiable manner. But now that they had reached the imperial capital and had someone to rely on they drew the line, dividing their position and social class in the blink of an eye.

Leylin used Beelzebub's memories to analyse most of her thoughts in a flash.

'Excellent. Such an interesting soul will be the best candidate to corrupt and degrade into a devil… A vain heart…' Just as Leylin was considering whether he needed to corrupt her, the rightful master, Viscount Daniel, finally spoke. "Hmm, if that's the case, then forget it. Give them a sum of money and make them leave quickly. What would others think if they saw them?"

"Yes, young master!" The butler standing behind Viscount Daniel tossed out a small bag of coins. "Take the money and get lost, you greedy vultures!"

"You…" Rafiniya instantaneously felt as though she could no longer recognise her her close friend, and suddenly became dispirited.

"Let's go…" As she patted her mount's head, Nick immediately let out a whinny, while Leylin scratched his nose and followed behind Old Pam, who had picked up the bag of money.

Viscount Daniel's voice could be heard faintly as they left. "Why would you bother with those country bumpkins. Hera, Yalani, let me take you to…"

...

"Repulsive! Abominable! Why did Hera and Yalani turn out this way? Did they fall under the spell of a devil that took control of their hearts?" The young female knight finally yelled after they had walked a distance.

"Alright. These nobles are all revolting. Old Pam has seen it all. Only gold never lies!" Rafiniya was totally speechless at his greed for money, and could only roll her eyes after hearing what he said. Leylin, on the other hand, asked interestedly, "Why didn't you just swear to become his follower right away? He's a nobleman after all!"

"If I did that, the elders would kill me! Besides, do you think a dwarf will be conferred a title in a human country?" Old Pam winked, exposing his innate cunning self, "Old Pam would rather than drown in rum than slog his guts out for a noble and end up with nothing…"

"Haha… You are a clever dwarf indeed…" Rafiniya was still a young lady after all, and was immediately amused by his humorous tone…

Leylin was the first to suggest disbanding when they reached a crossroad. "If there isn't anything else, should we part ways here?"

"Part ways? Aren't we going to get paid for the mission at the mercenary association?" Rafiniya was surprised, and also a little reluctant for some reason.

"I have other things to do." Leylin declined tactfully, but even Rafiniya could read between the lines: he wanted to be alone. Once she understood this, she even had the urge to cry.

"Then… where will you be going?" The young female knight still asked stubbornly.

"I intend to stay in the imperial capital for a period of time, then begin my journey once again. My objective is not clear yet, perhaps I will make a trip to Silverymoon City up north. Goodbye…" Leylin seemed as though he was waving elegantly as he left.

But Rafiniya and Old Pam did not realise that a gloomy thread of light had already wound itself around Rafiniya's body like a strand of hair, one that disappeared almost instantly.

'The mark of a devil. I look forward to the moment when your soul falls from grace…' The low mutter of a devil sounded in Leylin's heart.

There were a few reasons he occasionally did right by Rafiniya and the others. For one thing, they were his group and saving them was a matter of course, but another reason was to observe the souls of people and attempt to corrupt them.

Leylin wasn't a masochist. Why would he insist on waiting outside the viscount's mansion otherwise? Did he lack that small sum of money? It was only at the actual scene that he could grasp the most subtle undulations of the soul and guide it!

'From the looks of it, Hera and her sister have been consumed by vanity. With just a slight push, it would be perfectly normal for them to be lured in by the devil. Rafiniya, on the other hand, has the purest soul. Once she's corrupted, she will possess strength that will make all the other devils drool…'

Once a soul like Rafiniya's fell from grace, it would be extremely enticing for any formidable devil. However, Leylin was already a near Archdevil, and he naturally didn't have to resort to such unclassy behaviour. It was out of prudent consideration that he decided to personally make a trip down to experiment on average human souls.

Since his main body had already robbed Beelzebub of all it had, having dealings with the underworld and other devils would be unavoidable. Even Leylin himself had a few devilish characteristics.

Souls in the World of Gods were different from those of the Magus World after all, and Leylin had to personally verify this matter. When he was in the outer seas, the people of his family were unsuitable to experiment on. As for those pirates, their souls were even similar to those of devils wreaking havoc!

Only Rafiniya and the others made Leylin's eyes light up. This was precisely why he left made the mark of a devil on her, making it convenient for him to track and monitor her at any time.

...

'All of these other matters can be put to one side. There are even more important matters to attend to on this trip to the imperial capital!'

The first problem that Leylin had to resolve was to cleanse himself of any suspicions of his piracy. Otherwise, the priests and paladins of the God of Justice would always follow him like houseflies, which was impossible for him to defend against. Even if he destroyed one group, others would emerge to come after him.

However, both Leylin and the nobles were very skilled when it came to distorting the truth and covering up evil deeds.

'It's simple in theory. As long as His Majesty makes a statement to conclude the case, it will be sufficient! After confirming the murderer, even the church of the God of Justice would be unable to continue investigating…'

Leylin was very clear on the fact that he currently was not considered a suspect. Even the priests and paladins of the God of Justice could only 'seek his assistance in their investigation' at the very most.

However, if they really did so, it would be all over for him! Which noble didn't have a crime penalty tied to them, or wasn't implicated in a grey area? Once a single event was uncovered, it would be linked to even more. He wouldn't even be able to think of walking out of the church alive at the end of it all.

His only path was to nip this in the bud; the church's hand was reaching too far.

'Once the king makes his final conclusion, it will be difficult for even the church to overthrow it. After all, they must respect the royalty in this region. The network of connections that the Faulen Family has is insufficient for this…'

Leylin was in deep thought. 'It would be best if a member of his majesty's inner ministerial circle spoke on my behalf, and he would have to be a very important person. The network that Beelzebub left behind would probably come in handy in this aspect…'

The higher one's status as a noble, the easier one would become corrupted and collaborate with the devil. The same happened to the king of Dambrath, and even the person in charge that Beelzebub had personally appointed himself before he entered dormancy. It was undeniably a form of mockery towards the gods.

'Let me see… In the list of names of the chiefs in charge in the Dambrath region, the one situated in the Dambrath Kingdom's capital is…' Leylin browsed through the information that the A.I. Chip had recorded. An odd smile gradually crept onto his face. 'Interesting… A devil?'

In Beelzebub's memory, the imperial capital of Dambrath was obviously the main disaster area where devils wrecked havoc. He had even specially dispatched a devil over for the convenience of control.

Although she was suppressed by the prime material plane, she should still have the strength of a high-ranked Professional. She had even mastered a few special concealment techniques to help Beelzebub's believers successfully avoid countless searches by the churches.

"A smart chap," Leylin evaluated her indifferently. If Leylin had used his true strength to subdue her, then the outcome of the fight wouldn't even need to be considered. Unfortunately, fairness didn't exist in such matters from the start.

With Beelzebub's memories, Leylin had control over a trump card that could instantly make him an archenemy!

"But before I subdue her, I'll go meet an old friend!" A strange smile flashed across Leylin's face.

...

"Damn it! Damn it! Those loathsome nobles all have their eyes on my territory, and have completely forgotten about their friendship with the Golden Thornblossoms…" Also in the imperial capital was Leylin's old acquaintance. Viscount Tim had returned from the imperial palace, crestfallen.

Being a spy, he'd fortunately escaped the unforeseen event of the Pirates' Tide, and had even brought a portion of the family's wealth to the mainland. Soon after, he began to take action in the imperial capital in hopes of obtaining the title of Marquis of the Gold Thornblossom family, as well as the territories in the Baltic archipelago.

However, reality had slapped him in the face. Once the old marquis had passed away, his original relationships had all become invalid. Those nobles of the imperial capital with their insatiable appetites had started planning to split up the Baltic archipelago; the profits from oceanic trade were enough to make these nobles go green with envy.

After multiple trips to the palace to meet with the king, he realised that His Majesty also seemed unenthusiastic about his requests.

'Although we are blood relatives, the benefits are irresistible to others. Unless someone with real authority is willing to support me… I didn't bring a lot of gold coins, who should I choose…' Just as Viscount Tim was pondering over that, a servant entered to ask for instructions. "Sir, there's another noble requesting to see you. He displayed the Faulen Family's badge…"

*Ping!* The exquisite porcelain cup in Viscount Tim's hand fell onto the floor right away.

"The Fau… Faulens!" Tim covered his forehead. "Is he still not going to let me off?"

In his heart, there was no difference between Leylin and other demons and devils. Ironically, that was indeed the truth.

Truename

After much consideration, Tim still gave the command. "Let him in!" He met Leylin with a solemn and tragic expression on his face, and was startled by the youthful face before him.

"This is the first time we have met, Viscount Tim. However, we have already made many deals in the past. I'm Leylin, Leylin Faulen. Pleased to meet you."

"Get out, all of you!" Tim rudely chased his subordinates out, and fiercely shut the door and windows. Leylin was even considerate enough to add a magical protective screen.

"I've already done as you requested. Why have you still come here?" Tim asked in a rage, but Leylin could still see the fear and weakness under his tough and unyielding expression.

"Don't take offense, alright? After all, we had a really pleasant time working together before, didn't we Viscount Tim?" Leylin said with a light smile.

"You damn bandit, you absolute savage…" The veins on Tim's face bulged grotesquely, "Aren't you afraid I'll inform on you to the king and the church?"

"What do I have to be afraid of?" Leylin laughed exaggeratedly, then whispered next to Tim's ear, "After all, the person who killed the old marquis wasn't me!"

Once the words left Leylin's mouth, Tim immediately curled up on his seat and started crying bitterly, as though his spine had been ripped out of him. "It's you guys! You guys forced me…"

"No one forced you… If you came clean to the old marquis, both of you could have fled before the pirates came…" Leylin sneered. "Also, you don't have to make yourself look pitiful in front of me. You really should hire a new acting teacher."

The cold look in Leylin's eyes told Tim that the wizard had seen through him.

"If that's the case, then why did you still come and look for me?" Tim took out a napkin to wipe the tears on his face. He calmed down in an instant, and his expression was even gloomy.

"Haha… Good! That's the person I want to negotiate with!" Leylin clapped his hands, "Of course, the same as last time. A deal!"

"A deal? Speak!" Tim wasn't even half as timid as earlier.

"I will help you obtain your title and territory, and in exchange you will end all suspicion on me." Leylin was very direct. Tim was the key person in his plan to cleanse himself of suspicion. After all, if even the victim proved Leylin to be innocent, what else could anyone say?

"End all suspicion? Tsk tsk… Seems like the investigation team of the God of Justice is giving you trouble!" Tim folded his arms in front of his chest.

"Just a little, but you can forget about haggling. I have many other options as well, just that things would become a bit more troublesome. But the only person in the entire imperial capital who can support you in your obtaining a title of nobility is me!" Leylin appeared extremely enigmatic.

"I need to see what you're capable of," Tim did not agree at once. The Faulen Family's head was just a baron after all, and Tim did not believe that his influence would extend beyond the outer seas.

"You'll soon see!" With an indifferent smile, Leylin got up to leave.

Now was the time to utilise the devil network. Leylin made turns here and there in the imperial capital, as though he was just strolling around, and finally arrived at an entertainment club.

"Young master, we are not open yet…" The doorman said awkwardly. Leylin examined his surroundings. This place was evidently a street filled with the entertainment facilities of the imperial capital. There were similar buildings all around, just that the streets were rather deserted; after all, not every noble was so idle as to come over to play around in the day.

"I know…" Leylin stretched his right hand open in front of the doorman. A bizarre magic pattern appeared in the centre of his palm: a thorny rose. The colour of its petals changed continuously as time elapsed.

The doorman's face changed drastically upon seeing this mark. "Come in with me!" he said as his aura changed, and his languid gaze brightened up greatly. After vigilantly glancing around Leylin's surroundings, he opened the main door and let Leylin in.

Pink veils greeted him everywhere when he entered through the main door. There was a strong scent of perfume here, and wine bottles and scented handkerchiefs were strewn across the floor. A smooth arm or sleek thigh would peek out from the cracks of the doors from time to time. The entire place was filled with an exotic atmosphere.

The doorman led Leylin to the deepest corner of the club straight away, into a hidden private room.

"Let me meet with the person in charge!" Leylin no longer bothered to conceal his identity. His eyes turned blood red, and he emitted traces of the aura of the devil.

"Yes, sir!" The doorman performed a ceremony exclusive to followers of the devil, and retreated respectfully. He even seemed to be trembling as he could distinctly sense the aura of a powerful devil radiating from Leylin.

The boss arrived swiftly. The devilish undulations radiating from her made Leylin smile.

"Oh! Handsome young master, were you looking for me?" A relaxed voice said. Leylin then saw a beautiful and alluring lady enter the private room.

She was clothed in a crimson evening gown, which revealed half of her snowy white shoulders. Her eyes were glistening as she coquettishly entered the room. With a gentle tap of her right foot, the door of the private room closed slowly. As she shut the door, the high slit in the hem of her gown inadvertently revealed her smooth thigh, as well as her pretty little feet and her toenails that were painted with daffodil juice.

She didn't seem to be wearing anything under her luxurious clothes, and she radiated an aura which was infinitely tempting.

'A rare creature!' This was the first thought that came to Leylin's mind. She was even more attractive than that fox lady, Madam Tillen, whom he had met previously. She was an already-extinct Creature that could make men go crazy.

"It's me!" Leylin looked her up and down without even bothering to be polite. Her clean, bare feet that stood upon the carpet were especially attractive and flirtatious. However, what he said made her face change drastically in a split second. "As expected of a high-ranked pleasure devil, one that graces the beds of men…"

"A pleasure devil? Are you joking, young man?" The beautiful lady covered her mouth demurely, and even appeared a little pale. This was a natural reaction that normal people would give after hearing about a devil.

"No need for this pretense. Since I know about this place, it means that I already know everything about you that there is to know, including your real identity…" With a flick of Leylin's hand, a magical barrier formed immediately. Shadowy divine force suddenly erupted from his body.

"Master's divine force!" This fake divine force made the attractive lady across him cry out in surprise. It was as though her fog of disguise had been pierced, revealing her true form. The amorous smile persisted, but her pupils had turned a strange burgundy. Her violet hair was topped with a curved horn characteristic of devils, and she appeared charming and adorable. Her feet had also turned into a pair of cloven hooves.

A layer of strange purple runes appeared on her body. They were like tattoos on her skin, yet they had a bizarre charm to them. Although one would recognise her as a devil with one look, she was more attractive than before.

"So you're the divine one that appeared in Gloomwood Castle: Kukulkan!"

The pleasure devil looked at Leylin restrainedly, fear showing on her changed appearance. As the priest in charge of the entire Dambrath Kingdom, she'd certainly paid close attention to Leylin's appearance then. The worshippers from Gloomwood Castle wouldn't dare hide anything from her either.

If not caring about costs, she could receive news rapidly from across the kingdom.

"Yes, it's me!" Leylin had his hands behind his back, and seemed extremely mysterious. His divine force was suppressing the devil opposite him.

"Are you here to add me to your party? Hehe… What a pity, but without master's orders, I will not comply with you." The pleasure devil watched Leylin with vigilance. As a high-ranked devil, she had personally seen Beelzebub before, and knew that he was absolutely impossible that it would bestow his divinity on other devils.

"I'm afraid that's not for you to choose, Lady Delia! Or perhaps I should call you… Adelius Dodocrow Menjfakel Anconina…" Leylin uttered a string of complex and tongue-twisting syllables. When the pleasure devil heard this, she immediately turned wild.

"How… How did you know?" Her expression changed drastically. With a wave of her hand, a powerful magic force appeared in the private room once again, similar to a large-scale confinement spell formation.

The reason why Lady Delia was so anxious was entirely because Leylin had just uttered her truename. A truename that was reserved for devils!

High-level devils had unique truenames, and these were their greatest secret. They were almost as important as their lives! Once it was divulged, even ordinary wizards would be able to easily imprison them, and enslave them or boss them around!

As the Sovereign King of Gluttony who had control over her, it was only natural that Beelzebub knew the truename of this pleasure devil, and could cast a deadly curse on her at any time. This was the greatest form of control he had.

Leylin, who had stripped Beelzebub of everything he owned, had obtained the truenames of all the devils Beelzebub controlled from his memories. It was this trump card that he counted on.

"Why? Do you want to hit me?" Leylin smiled weakly. The rune representing Lady Delia's truename had already flown into his palm. His terrifying divine force was like a vicious dragon, ready to smash the rune into pieces at any moment.

"No! Don't!" The pleasure devil cried out in alarm, and knelt on the floor. "I am willing to obey your orders, master!"

As a devil, she would of course treasure her life. As for loyalty and moral principles, they had long been fed to the dogs.

Strategy

"Good! I won't deprive you of your position, but you must use all the resources you have to assist me." Leylin glanced at the pleasure devil in front of him and nodded indifferently. With Beelzebub's divine force and knowledge of her truename, this devil would even agree if Leylin said he was a reincarnation of the Sovereign King of Gluttony.

With her life under a threat, it was not difficult to make requests of her.

"How vast are your connections? Can you influence the king?" Leylin asked bluntly.

"Master, I secretly have control over around a thousand followers. Two are earls, and five are viscounts… I can also indirectly affect two marquises and a duke…" Delia immediately reported to him. Beelzebub was completely ignored by the two of them, such is the sad fate of the loser.

"Only Marquise Louise can influence the king. She is the king's lover, and his newest conquest." The pleasure devil bit at her lips, looking very seductive. In order to survive and gain higher status, she did not mind using her own body. Hence, after the scare, she still unwittingly displayed her beauty in front of Leylin.

She was very confident. No matter how resolute a human was, they wouldn't be able to resist her charms.

"Marquise Louise?" Leylin was astounded. He had not expected this devil to be so effective as to influence the highest class of the kingdom.

Madam Delia finally explained how it was done to Leylin. Like other devils, she first used her pleasure house to attract nobles, and tempted them into their falls. Shady methods had allowed her to gain control of a large number of noble families' madams and ladies.

Making use of these social nobles, she frequently held dinner parties for the fallen, attracting even more to join. This network was like a virus that constantly expanded.

Recently, Madam Delia herself had personally guided the Marquise, Madam Louise, to try out some forbidden pleasures and successfully captured her. She had become devil worshipper and was even sent to the bed of the king.

Delia herself had the true body of a devil, and it was impossible for her to bypass all the detection methods and the wizards inside the court. However, it wasn't an issue for pure humans.

"I now have control over a batch of noble ladies, and they are all followers of the master. If you like them…" Madam Delia licked her lips, sending him an invitation that was very attractive.

"If I'm free in the future, I'll give it a try…" When it came to such a sweet invitation, Leylin did not hesitate to accept. He did have these needs usually anyway.

"Hehe… our services here will definitely satisfy you, master…" After hearing Leylin's promise, Madam Delia seemed to feel relieved. At the very least, while she still had value, Leylin would not get rid of her. Her entire body relaxed, which only made her seem more charming.

After understanding the power she held, Leylin nodded and sat on a couch nearby.

"Have you heard of Viscount Tim from the Baltic archipelago?"

"Him?" Delia shot Leylin a glance, seeming to be guessing at Leylin's relationship with the person in question.

"I've heard of him. He used to be the commoner son in the Gold Thornblossom Family, and he's scheming to get a position as the Marquis, as well as land…"

"What do you think are the chances of him succeeding?" Leylin laced his fingers together.

"There are many nobles hoping to obtain the Baltic archipelago. There is a marquis eyeing it, but the other party is the nephew of the king. While he did not do well and had his land attacked by pirates, that's the problem with the previous marquis. His tragic story already earned him pity points, and I expect that he can get what he wants at the end. I'm not sure how much or what he'll have to hand over in exchange though…"

Delia was a devil after all, and had also worked in the Dambrath Imperial Capital for many years. She, who had seen these power struggles countless times, could easily guess what would happen.

"Does master wish to help him?"

"No. Dispatch some of our people to make contact with him, but don't give him anything too substantial… I'm sure you're great at that…" Leylin stroked his chin.

"Dangling a carrot in front of a donkey's eyes so he can see it but not eat it, and therefore get him to struggle hard in vain? Hehe… master, you're terrible!" Madam Delia grinned brightly. Truth be told, devils were the best at using benefits to entice humans, unceasingly tightening the ropes around their necks or getting them to sell their souls.

"It's good that you understand. Do this for now, I'll inform you about other things in the future…" Leylin stood up, completely ignoring her astounding beauty and looking ready to leave.

"Master, aren't you staying?" Madam Delia was truly surprised.

"No, I still have many things to do in the capital. I'll come over whenever I have time…" Leylin always drew a clear line between work and pleasure.

Seeing this, Delia could only watch as Leylin left. Only after his figure completely disappeared did she look grim, "Damn it! How could he have my master's strength and know my true name? Just a look at him makes it obvious that he's a steel-hearted freak who wouldn't treat his underlings more leniently because of their beauty…"

It was the greatest misfortune of a pleasure devil to fall under such a master. However, with her truename in his grasp, Delia could do nothing else.

"Damn it. DAMN IT!" She could only begin to curse hatefully.

The other servants and dancers watched their boss fearfully. Only they knew what violence and darkness was hidden under her perfect and beautiful face. Hence, they all wished they could turn into ostriches, burying their heads in the ground.

Upon seeing this, she yelled even more violently. "You dwarf swines, get working! Do you want to get whipped?"

Days later, Leylin had changed into noble clothing and headed out of the church of wealth. Using the transfer services of the church, he'd received a large amount of gold from Faulen Island. Due to the fall of the Baltic archipelago, the family's profits from trade had risen bit by bit, which gave Leylin even more abundant funds.

Wizard training could not be sustained without money. They needed it for their expensive experimental materials and magic tomes.

"Tim's side has also surrendered. Everything is going well. I might go to the imperial capital and train for a while, since the Wizards' Guild can give me access to any materials below that given to high-ranked wizards. With help from my connection with mentor Ernest…"

Leylin looked at the distant wizard tower that reached through the clouds, and his eyes couldn't help but glint. His plans were going extremely smoothly. After seeing Leylin's strength, Tim's side had easily agreed to the deal.

After all, compared to what the other nobles could want from him, Leylin only needed Tim to confirm the deal and asked a low price. With Leylin having evidence of Tim having murdered the old marquis anyway, it was impossible for them to go their separate ways. Hence, as long as he was still in the outer seas, he would have to consider Leylin's stance. After considering it comprehensively, Tim naturally knew what to choose.

With proof of harm, Leylin would just need to create a ruckus, forcing the king to make an announcement and with proper documentation, make everything official. What would the church of the God of Justice be able to do then?

"On top of that, even if the king finds out the truth in the future, he won't acknowledge that this is the truth. He'll stubbornly protect the legitimacy of his reputation. He represents the dignity of a kingdom, so how could the king announce something that might be wrong? For his own reputation, he would rather allow absurd events like this. Such is the sorrow of those with power…" Leylin's lips quirked up into a cold smile.

Offending a king just for the son of a baron, who was only guilty of piracy and therefore less of an issue than associating with devils and demons? Was that worth it? The priests of the God of Justice would have to consider this properly.

With this done, Leylin, who was now considered clean, could revert to strutting around on the streets in his original appearance. Come to think of it, there was no crime pinned to him. At most, there were only suspicions.

"Now that I've shown my face outside the church of wealth, the others should emerge soon, right?" Leylin had never doubted the rate at which intel flowed between large organisations. After all, even Madam Delia had a huge intel network, much less the churches.

With the transfer of money at the shrine, his status, name and all other information were exposed.

"I'll be waiting!" Leylin chuckled and walked into the Wizards' Guild.

The Wizards' Guild was less cheery than the Thieves' Guild or Warriors' Guild, but in turn it was filled with a solemn, stately aura. Two magic puppets loyally guarded the place, emanating magic light. There were evidently spells of eternity cast on them.

'With such an air of wealth and extravagance, as well as their expenses… It's no wonder that there's only one Wizards' Guild in the Dambrath Kingdom.'

"Welcome! May I know which services you require?" A wizard apprentice received him and bowed towards him with etiquette that befitted wizards.

"I am Leylin Faulen of Faulen Island. I'm here to take the wizard ranking examination." Leylin had a bright smile on his face.

If he planned to study in the Wizards' Guild, he'd obviously need to have his rank verified. The rigour of this was far greater than what warriors underwent. He even had to make clear whom he'd learnt from before and what he'd studied. Wizards were a bunch of serious people!

However, Leylin was already prepared for this, and was therefore unafraid.