Clop Clop Clop
In a room enveloped by an eerie darkness, the sound of footsteps echoed all over the place, slowly and steadily. The air was stagnant, unmoving, not a single whoosh to be heard, only the barely audible breathing of a single man.
The pebbles flew and rolled as he kicked them around, his eyes swimming left and right as he hummed to himself in a room veiled with the curtain called darkness. It was as if he was just taking a leisurely stroll in a park, his eyes full of curiosity .
"The Divine Poison sure did a number on this place, huh..." ［Grey］
Grey commented as he looked at the deep scars left in the ground. Well, it wasn't just the ground. If one were to look at the walls around and the ceiling above, they were also in the same state, corroded by a dangerous poison which devoured everything like a starving beast,
In fact, it was so powerful that not even the drops of the boss were spared. Billions upon billions worth of kiels was turned to scrap due to Autopilot's decisions. Just thinking about it was enough to make Grey's heart shiver in pain.
Though Autopilot moves towards the goal as efficiently as possible, it would also do anything and everything to achieve it. Be it sacrificing allies, items, or even doing ridiculous actions, it would do it unless it would risk Grey's life. Of course, using the Divine Amulet was also a part of its calculations.
Thankfully, Grey still has a spare Divine Amulet which can still use "Phoenix Heart". Still, he found it wasteful using such an ability when he could have just escaped. It was the very reason why Grey never wanted to use Autopilot.
"Haah... I should really fight on my own next time..." ［Grey］
Heaving a lengthy sigh, Grey continued walking, unfazed by the barren and repetitive sight, when out of the blue, he suddenly halted his steps. His head tilted up, scaling the massive and heavy structure in front of him.
It was a pair of massive doors, colored white and gold, and covered with a myriad of jewels. Looming about it was an aura of extremed grandiosity and luxury that not even the doors of the royal castle could compare to. It was a complete opposite of the entrance from before.
"I wonder how Yuna would react if she sees this..." ［Grey］
But even with such a grand entrance in front of him, the one who remained in his mind was none other than Yuna. It has been far too long since he saw her. Now, no matter what he does, she suddenly appears in his mind. Just another lovesick idiot who longs for his beloved.
Thunk Clunk Clunk Creaaakkkkk
Heavy mechanical sounds thundered all over the silent room as soon as Grey poured his mana towards the giant doors, a lengthy creak soon followed after as he doors started opening on their own.
The room which was once shrouded in eerie darkness was quickly swallowed by the light as soon as the doors opened, not too intense yet not too mild, just enough to make one stand frozen in awe and astonishment.
Treasures, treasures, and even more treasures. No matter which side or corner of the room one looked, there was a mountain of treasures to be seen. Grey hasn't even set foot inside the treasure room, yet he was already greeted by a gold-tinted scenery.
Jewels and precious metals all over the ground, a mountain of coins and crystals here and there, ridiculous equipment ranging from swords, accessories, and even things Grey hasn't seen before. The atmosphere was so sparkly, it was blinding.
Snap Snap Snap
Lights flashed one after another as soon as Grey entered the scene. Before he even noticed it, his hands already grabbed the camera from his "Inventory" and started snapping photos one after another.
It was the most "fantasy-like" treasure room Grey had ever seen. There was no way we wouldn't be taking photos of such a glorious and magnificent sight which even Kings and Emperors would drool over. It was just far too beautiful.
"Oh! What a magnificent sword! It's fully decorated as well!" ［Grey］
"Hmm... I wonder how these would look on Yuna..." ［Grey］
"Ugh... Who would want a mask like this...?" ［Grey］
Left, right, up, and down... Grey moved from place to place as he inspected the whole room. He was like a child who just visited a toy store for the first time, eyes glowing with pure energy and curiosity as he picked up item to item.
Well, one couldn't really blame him. After all, other than the money and jewelry, the equipment present were all Superior-Grade and up. There were even a few Mythical-Grade ones and even a Divine-Grade one. His blood, both as an adventurer and a blacksmith, was boiling in excitement.
"Then, let's clean this place up, shall we?!" ［Grey］
Excitement boiling in his heart and his eyes sparkling vehemently, Grey went around the room, storing the items one by one like a vacuum cleaner, not leaving even a single one behind. Thankfully, his "Inventory" could store things infinitely, otherwise, it would have taken forever to get them all.
There was no need to say more. Just from the dozens of Void Crystals alone, each costing a billion kiels, it was safe to say Grey earned a stupendously large amount of money, reaching a couple hundred billion kiels.
As for the items, there were a lot he fancied. From accessories, potion items, herbs, and many more, there was not one type missing. Especially the Mythical-Grade items which are invaluable. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say his wealth is now in par with some royalties
But perhaps the most useful was the Mythical-Grade storage ring which could store a million cubic meters worth of space. It could even store a couple mansions if one wills it. Not to mention it can slow down the flow of time by about a hundred times. It was the perfect gift for Yuna.
"Alright... Last but not the least..." ［Grey］
Lastly, there was the highlight item throughout the whole of the treasure room. A lone sword resting on a pedestal of marble laced with gold and rubies, sitting at the very center of the room.
The pedestal was already beautiful, and so was the sword. It was a crimson red blade, veins of amber and gold running through it, fierce yet intricate. Just looking at it, Grey could already feel the heat it emanated. It was a true masterpiece.
⟨⟨Appraisal⟩⟩ ［Grey］
-----------------------------------
[Equipment]
[Name] Vulcan's Wrath
[Grade] Divine
[Power Value] 112,278
[Enchantment Value] 335
[Description]
A masterpiece said to be forged from the fiery depths of hell and molded by extreme pressure from the depths of the world. It has the power to harness all kinds of flame and turn anything to ashes. Not only is it top-tier in durability, sharpness, and mana conductivity, it also allows the user to harness the power of fire. The perfect sword for those who practice fire magic and swordsmanship.
[Ability] 『Hellfire (5☆)』
-----------------------------------
Not only was it beautiful, it was powerful as well. Its ability, "Hellfire", was one which enhances the strength of the flames its user produces to an outstanding degree. Not only that, it also prevents the flames from getting extinguished unless a much more powerful force is used.
With such qualities, there was only one person which Grey could think of which could bring out the full potential of the sword. It was Vanessa who was not only an amazing swordswoman, but also proficient in fire magic.
"Yeah, no... Not happening..." ［Grey］
Well, even if she was perfect for the sword, it doesn't mean Grey's going to simply hand it over her. Not only is she pregnant at the moment, there was also the problem with her overactive and airheaded personality.
Shivers run down Gey's spine as he tries to imagine just what kind of shenanigans Vanessa would be up to if she gets her hand on such a sword. It wasn't too far off of a thought that she starts challenging people indiscriminately into a sparring match, something Grey wants to avoid at all costs.
In the end, Grey decided it was best to lock the "Vulcan's Wrath" inside the Inventory until he finds a use for it. For now, the best purpose it served was to act as a trophy for clearing the Labyrinth of Flames.
"Hmm... Now, where is it..." ［Grey］
All things stored and the treasure room tidy, Grey's eyes then started swimming left and right in search of a certain something in the treasure room, turning his head like an owl looking for a prey in the middle of the night.
What was he searching for, one might ask? He was searching for the very reason that he was sent to Merusia. He was searching for the device which God made in order to protect the world from corruption.
"Hm? What are you looking for, Young Man?" ［???］
"I'm looking for a certain device. It's supposed to be around here. Have you see one around here?" ［Grey］
"Oh, a device, huh? Would you, pray tell, tell me what this device is?" ［???］
"Ah, it's a device which is... sup... posed.., toー Eh?" ［Grey］
Eyes wide open, body frozen, and his mind riddled with question marks. As soon as Grey realized he was talking to someone, his head quickly snapped towards the direction from where it came from.
It was all too sudden, a familiar, husky voice echoing behind his back. No matter how long it has been, Grey would never forget to whom such a voice belonged to. It was as if it was just yesterday when they met.
"W-W-Wait! This voice! You are... God?!" ［Grey］
"Hahaha. It's been a long time." ［God］
It was God, the very person who reincarnated him in Merusia, and the source of all his troubles and fortune. Such a being stood in front of him, now with a body made of energy, glowing ever so brightly and radiantly, literally.
Grey could not see the face of the being in front of him, but he could tell that he was smiling. An unnamed and unprecedented swirl of strong emotions sweeping his heart as he looked at the latter's figure. Nevertheless, he knew he was happy.
"How have you been, Matteoー Oh, my bad. It's Grey now, isn't it?" ［God］
"Ah, yes... It's Grey..." ［Grey］
"Goodness gracious me, I've been quite forgetful these days." ［God］
"Haha, Really now... How could you forget my name when you're the one who made it? And I've been well, thank you for asking." ［Grey］
It was as if he was just talking to an old friend. Though they only knew each other for a short time, it felt like they knew many things about one another already. It really was a strange thing to feel.
"Hm? I thought you already lost your connection with Merusia? How are you able to appear here?... Don't tell meー" ［Grey］
"No, I didn't lie. And I never said I lost my connection with it, I just can't meddle with it anymore. It's a rule amongst Gods. Seriously, those old farts..." ［God］
Replied God as he rumbled about the many rules Gods needed to follow. He was just like a student ranting about how there is so much homework and projects to do. It was a feeling Grey could relate all too well. College was like hell, after all.
Well, thanks to God ranting, he was also able to learn a handful of things about them. First was that they could only manage a single dimension at a time. Second, they also have ranks and hierarchies, and lastly, they have an absurdly different way of thinking. Common sense doesn't apply to them.
Grey doesn't know where and when he can use such knowledge but it was still a little interesting learning about them. It was just like when you search up a certain random topic on the internet just for the heck of it. It was quite entertaining.
"And that's why it's been so hectic in my new dimension lately... Anyway, back to you. I didn't expect that you'll clear a Labyrinth this fast." ［God］
"Well, that's because of the ridiculous things you gave me. Especially my abilities, they're completely broken." ［Grey］
"Hmm... But I don't think they are though..." ［God］
Unconvinced, God cupped his chin with his hands and tilted his head, reflecting about the abilities he gave Grey. But no matter how much he thought about it, they all just seemed pretty normal to him. Their values just couldn't align straight.
"No, they really are broken. And speaking of which... What the hell's up with 'Autopilot'?! I just lost my life because of it. It's too extreme!" ［Grey］
"Oh?" ［God］
"Don't 'Oh?' me! Do you know how terrifying it was?!" ［Grey］
Now, it was Grey's turn to complain about the ridiculous things he received from God. Though he was thankful for them, thinking about how he always needed to hide them was super stressful. He always needed to look out every time.
Such was especially true with Autopilot. After today's events, he vowed to never use it unless completely necessary. It was his last-resort tactic of sorts.
"Well, I guess it is a little concerning... But all's well, ends well, doesn't it?" ［God］
"That's right, but... Ugh... Forget it,,." ［Grey］
There was no point arguing over it. The gap between their senses of value was far too apart. It was like comparing the values of the poorest and most diligent person in the world against the richest and most spoiled one. Such was the current situation.
"Anyway, about the device... Where is it?" ［Grey］
"Oh, if it's about that, the whole room is the device and the pedestal is the switch. Didn't I already explain that to you before?" ［God］
"No, you didn't. You just said there would be a device in here." ［Grey］
"Oh, really?" ［God］
"Yes, really" ［Grey］
An awkward silence brewed as Grey locked eyes with God. Grey couldn't see the latter's face, but he was sure that he was locking eyes with him, awkwardly at that.
"Cough. Cough. Cough. Anyway, now that you know, why don't you try activating it? Just place your hand on the pedestal and pour mana in it." ［Grey］
Desperately trying to erase the awkward silence, God quickly prompted Grey to activate the device. His intentions were so obvious but Grey didn't find the need to point it out. He just heaved a lengthy sigh and played along.
Clop Clop Clop
The sounds of footsteps echoed as he neared the pedestal where a sword previously was. And as per God's instruction, Grey placed his hands atop the pedestal, pouring his mana soon after, a warm flow leaving his body.
Well, it wasn't just mana. While Grey couldn't tell what it was, something entirely different also flowed out along with mana, gathering into the pedestal which was feeding on him like a starving beast. Soon, an astonishing, mystical scene unfolded before his eyes.
Runes which were never there before started glowing all over the room. Red, blue, green, and all sorts of radiant and full colors painted the place which was like a blank canvas. Colors glowed even more beautiful than gems under the sun.
RUMMBBBLLLLEEEEEE
The ground quake soon after, sending shocks and quakes all over the place and letting an unknown energy surge throughout the deepest depths and furthest reaches of the world as blinding light swallowed the room.
It was far too surreal. As Grey witnessed the scene unfold, it was as if he was watching a show where the stars danced and the world applauded. An unknown sensation bloomed inside his heart and enveloped the deepest depths of his soul.
Cling Shing Twing Ring
The light faded, the sound of chimes, bells, and a myriad of ringing sounds echoed in the air as small, colorful, and radiant sprites danced around the air freely, glimmering like the stars in the night sky.
Though he couldn't explain it, he knew deep down that such things were such simple fragments of light nor were they a figment of his imagination. He felt a connection to them, his heart feeling joy as they watched them drift in the air freely.
"Are you curious about them?" ［God］
"A-Ah, yeah..." ［Grey］
"Hahaha... They're spirits. My last and final creations in Merusia...." ［God］
Said God as he looked at the little glimmers of light bobbing up and down along the wind currents. Grey couldn't see his face, but if could, he was sure that his eyes would be filled with longing and happiness, a gentle smile appearing on his face.
"These spirits... Can you tell me about them?" ［Grey］
"Hahaha. Of course!" ［God］
By Grey's request, God talked about the spirits enthusiastically in detail. Though it was quite a long discussion, Grey was able to pick up the main points about them.
Just like monsters made of Corruption, Spirits are also made of mana. The only difference with them is that they are made of Aether, the complete opposite of the former. They are beings which are there to keep the balance and enrich the world.
For now, since there is only one device activated, they still don't have sentience nor are they conscious. They are simply still masses of Aether which neutralizes corruption as they float all over the world, healing it slowly.
It was also worth noting that only those with special eyes could see spirits, of which, Grey is included in the very rare few. It would be a problem if they started appearing before people all over the world, after all.
"Right, speaking of change... I felt something change in my body just now. Some sort of warm feeling, I guess..." ［Grey］
"Ah, that... Don't worry about it. It's probably just because you could sense the spirits. Nothing too serious..." ［God］
"Hm? Then shouldn't I feel the change outside then?" ［Grey］
"A-Ah... No... Don't sweat the minor details..." ［God］
God said as he turned his head away from Grey, clearly hiding something. It was a pity that "Judgement" doesn't work on God. Nevertheless, he was still suspicious.
"A-Ahem! Anyway, how is your life right now? Are you doing well?" ［God］
"Changing the topic, are we?" ［Grey］
"Goodness, I don't know what you're talking about. I'm just curious, you see..." ［God］
"Sure, sure, let's leave it at that." ［Grey］
Casual as ever, Grey and God chatted for quite some time about what has been happening in Grey's new life. From the very first says he arrived in Merusia up until challenging the Vulcan Destroyer, not a single detail was spared.
Of course, it also meant Grey was forced to talk about Yuna. From how he met her, to spending their days together in the forest, his confession, and the progress in their relationship, God managed to squeeze every single juicy detail. It was a piece of cake using his mind-reading abilities.
"Hahaha, to think you've finally gotten yourself a girlfriend. How to say this.... I'm very proud of you." ［God］
"Shut up..." ［Grey］
It was like sharing one's love life with one's parents. The love life one tried too hard to hide. Not only was it awkward, it was also very embarrassing as well. In fact, it was too embarrassing, Grey just wants to dig a hole and hide away.
"Haha, jokes aside. I'm happy that you're enjoying your new life." ［God］
"Yeah, and it's all thanks to you. I'll never forget this debt for all eternity, thank you very much, really..." ［Grey］
"I'm just doing my side of the deal. There's no need to be too formalー Oh!" ［God］
God suddenly cut off his words, when out of blue, his body started glowing even brighter, fragments and streaks of light emanating from his body. God looked at his hand glow, looking back at Grey soon after.
"What a shame... Looks like my time is up... We'll probably see one another when you clear the next Labyrinth." ［God］
"Ah, God! Before you go, I have one question." ［Grey］
"Hm? What is it?" ［God］
"About the 'Essence of Creation'. Whatー" ［Grey］
"A-Ah, would you look at that? I really can't stay anymore. Looks like the question will have to wait, Grey. See you next time!" ［God］
A speedy escape. As soon as the words "Essence of Creation" was mentioned, God quickly jolted. Grey couldn't even finish his question when he suddenly started to rush, disappearing as soon as he could, panic evident in his voice.
Not even a second later, God suddenly vanished, leaving only fragments and orbs of light along with Grey who was still stupefied. Silence swallowed the room as the wind of awkwardness blew through him.
"Haah... That idiot God... He's surely hiding something." ［Grey］
There was no doubt about it, but even then, there was nothing he could do now that the latter had already escaped. He could only heave a sigh of resignation, making a mental checklist of what he should ask first the moment they meet again.
"Well, I guess it's time to head back..." ［Grey］
Looking around the now empty room, there was only so much he could do. Now that everything was finally settled, the only thing left was head back up and meet up with the others to head out the Labyrinth.
A small, gentle smile formed on his face as he thought of a certain silver-haired elven girl. His heart started racing wildly, mind forgetting about everything, and excitement gleamed in his eyes, looking forward to seeing her again.
'I wonder if she already finished all those bags of sugar...' ［Grey］
CHAPTER 196 END