What exactly did Lynn hear that made him pause? It was, of course, the news that Sasrir had just informed him—the Ancient Sun God, who was originally expected to return later, had come back early.
"He's really back? So suddenly? Did he bring back a bunch of new divine kingdom citizens?" Switching his main consciousness to the Second Epoch, Lynn looked up at Sasrir. His surprise was mixed with a touch of dread.
He couldn't be blamed. Lynn and his companions had been overwhelmed by the people they had rescued from the Land of the Demonic Wolf. They were already struggling to manage everything, and any more newcomers might just push him over the edge.
This was when Lynn especially missed having subordinates. The reason he, Little Red, and Sasrir were so busy was that the divine kingdom was still in its early stages of construction and lacked useful aides. Lynn glanced sympathetically at Sasrir, feeling pity for the deputy of heaven who didn't even have a few senior secretaries to help with administrative tasks.
Among the high-ranking individuals, apart from Sasrir and the two temporary recruits—himself and Medici—everyone was a combatant. When it came to fighting, many would step forward, but as soon as it was about handling administrative duties, they scattered like birds.
Lynn sighed inwardly, suddenly wishing he could travel back in time and give his past self, the one who volunteered to help Sasrir, a good slap.
Why did I even think it was a good idea?
Lynn gave Sasrir a resentful look, ready to resign immediately and focus on his "Eye of Secrets" if the latter showed the slightest sign of agreement.
"I feel like you're thinking something very rude," Sasrir sighed helplessly, rubbing his temples. "But don't worry, the Lord didn't bring extra people back this time."
He hesitated before adding, "The Lord... does have some restraint."
"Your face says otherwise; you look like you're about to drop dead," Lynn retorted bluntly, nudging Medici beside him. "See, Little Red, if you willingly become a workhorse, Sasrir's fate could be yours. It's a clear path to hell!"
"So, isn't it better to slack off?"
Despite his slightly improved opinion of the Ancient Sun God after the trip to the Land of the Demonic Wolf, Lynn's policy towards Little Red remained unchanged.
He didn't mind Medici's loyalty to the Ancient Sun God, but absolute loyalty was out of the question. Why be loyal to the point of self-destruction, especially when it was your trusted one who betrayed you?
Every time he thought of the hotpot spirit Medici in the Fifth Epoch, Lynn felt it wasn't worth it for Little Red.
"Tch!" Medici snorted but didn't answer directly.
Judging by his expression, Lynn knew his persistent advice to slack off was taking effect.
"At least don't say this right in front of me…" Sasrir sighed, watching the two interact.
"Of course, I'm saying it for your benefit too, so it has to be in front of you," Lynn retorted confidently. "Sasrir, you should know there's no future in being overworked. Even if you don't rebel against The Lord, you should at least secure some time to rest."
"Sure, as a King of Angels, you don't need sleep and won't actually die from exhaustion, but can your spirit take it?"
Lynn continued vehemently, "And I think you should request a few assistants from the Lord. They can learn if they don't know how to help. Even Little Red, a child on the War pathway, has managed to handle administrative duties decently after all these days. Why should you be exhausted while Aucuses and the others live it up? They should be dragged in to help too."
Finally, his true intentions came out. It wasn't just about sharing the workload; Lynn wanted to drag the combat-oriented Aucuses and the others down as well.
It's not just about fighting; why should those who can fight get to enjoy life while I deal with administrative tasks?
Lynn was feeling unbalanced!
"It's not that I haven't tried talking to Aucuses and the others, but they really aren't suitable…" Sasrir began to explain but then stopped, looking towards the door with a sudden realization.
Lynn also turned to look, seeing the Ancient Sun God standing quietly at the entrance, unclear how long he had been listening. Despite his serene and mysterious demeanor, there was a compassionate look in his downcast eyes, which might have been an illusion on closer inspection.
The atmosphere became awkward instantly. This was akin to badmouthing the boss and being caught red-handed.
"Lord, didn't you say you'd wait for Lynn and Medici in Conference Room One? What brings you here personally? Is there something urgent?" Sasrir, worthy of being a nurturing figure, stood up resolutely and addressed the Ancient Sun God, breaking the awkward silence.
"I got a bit bored waiting, so I decided to come over myself," the Ancient Sun God replied warmly, showing no signs of anger. He then turned to Lynn and Medici, "It seems Sasrir has been taking good care of you, which reassures me."
"You might be a bit too reassured. I am an undeniable troublemaker, and with the straightforward hunter Little Red, that's two big troublemakers," Lynn said, blinking and seemingly unbothered by the awkwardness, maintaining a serious expression.
As long as I'm not embarrassed, there's no embarrassment.
"Someone seems very self-aware," Medici mocked, glancing at Lynn.
The Ancient Sun God was taken aback but then chuckled, turning to Lynn. "Regarding the Eye of Secrets, Sasrir has briefed me. Lynn, let me ask again: Are you truly ready to take on the responsibility of divine kingdom's education?"
His expression turned serious and solemn, "I can tell you clearly, the future of the divine kingdom will far exceed its current scale. I will liberate humanity from the control of the supernatural races, leading humanity to rise again and reclaim the world. If you take on this responsibility, you'll be in charge of educating all humanity in the future."
"This is no trivial matter. Regardless of your initial intentions, I hope you will consider this carefully."
"Ah, this…" Lynn scratched his head, meeting the Ancient Sun God's serious gaze. He sighed softly and then became serious himself.
"I understand your concern. You might not think my temperament is suited for such a significant responsibility, given my lack of steadiness in some aspects."
(End of the Chapter)