Thaloria Continent
*Capital: Evershade, Kingdom of Thaloria*
**Eric's POV**
Eric Thaloria, the revered ancestor of the Kingdom of Thaloria, stood in the heart of the royal castle, an aura of quiet authority surrounding him.
To the outside world, he was known as a demigod, a title that commanded respect and admiration.
Yet, in the depths of his being, Eric carried a profound secret: he was, in fact, a high god, a being of immense power far beyond what his title suggested.
This duality of identity was not merely a ruse; it was a strategic decision rooted in centuries of experience.
He also held another, more clandestine role—the current grandmaster of the Truth Order, an organization he had joined 2,000 years ago.
Under the guidance of the Prophet, he had ascended to the realm of high god without encountering the typical bottlenecks that plagued most cultivators.
This remarkable progress was a testament to the Prophet's unparalleled insights and resources.
For two millennia, the Kingdom of Thaloria had enjoyed a period of stability and prosperity, free from the unrest that often beset other realms.
Eric's mastery of his powers allowed him to maintain a tight grip on the kingdom, ensuring peace and security for his people.
However, his attention was currently drawn to the Truth Order's chat group, where a new notification flickered to life.
As he read through the Prophet's messages, a deep sigh of relief escaped his lips. Unlike many of his peers, Eric possessed the rare ability to sense the true extent of the constellations' powers.
He understood the potential dangers that lurked within their ranks, and he was acutely aware that while around forty of them posed little threat, the remaining sixty instilled a visceral fear within him.
Even the weakest constellation could potentially challenge a high god like himself.
The Prophet's messages sparked excitement within Eric.
Having interacted with the Prophet for centuries, he knew him well and understood the potential behind the treasures he possessed.
Each item in the Prophet's collection had the potential to turn the tide of power within the Grand Magus World.
The Prophet's willingness to share these items, contingent on the completion of tasks, opened up endless possibilities for growth and strength.
As he contemplated the future of the Truth Order and his own place within it, Eric felt the familiar prickle of constellations watching him.
Their gazes were like cold shadows, probing and curious.
However, the Mask of Devil he wore ensured that any intrusive spying could not penetrate the veil it created.
It provided him the illusion of control, allowing him to project only the information he chose to share.
In the stillness of his contemplation, he considered using the Mask of Devil's power to forcefully disrupt the prying eyes of the constellations, but he refrained.
The Prophet had advised against such actions unless it was absolutely necessary—something Eric understood deeply.
Subtlety was paramount in a world where power dynamics shifted like sand.
Suddenly, more notifications flooded his system screen, each one bearing the names of various constellations eager to form contracts with him:
"*Celestial Serpent* sees potential in you and offers a contract."
"*Phoenix's Claw* seeks to test your resolve and presents an opportunity."
"*Eclipse Rider* wishes to forge an alliance with you."
"*Eternal Guardian* senses your strength and offers guidance."
"*Starborn Titan* admires your prowess and extends a hand."
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"*Cosmic Chimera* appreciates your talent and is willing to offer you strength as long as you form a contract with him."
As the names scrolled, Eric's mind raced. Each offer represented a fork in the road, a decision that could shape not only his destiny but that of the Truth Order as well.
He understood the implications of entering into a contract with a constellation, especially one like the Cosmic Chimera.
Such contracts often carried significant weight, binding him to their will in exchange for power.
While the prospect of increased strength was alluring, Eric's experience taught him the importance of caution.
The nature of these contracts varied greatly; some were equitable, while others sought to subjugate. He had seen many a proud warrior brought low by overreaching ambition.
Amidst this torrent of invitations, Eric considered his loyalties. The Prophet had promised resources and opportunities that rivaled any contract offered by the constellations. This was a chance to harness strength without becoming beholden to another entity. He resolved to discuss the offers with the Prophet, weighing the benefits against the potential costs.
As he leaned back in his chair, Eric's mind sharpened with clarity. He would not be swept away by the temptations of the constellations.
Instead, he would use this moment to strengthen his resolve and position. The Truth Order, with its unique dynamics and capabilities, was his primary focus. With the Prophet's guidance and the resources available, he could carve out a path of true independence.
The confluence of power, ambition, and strategy swirled within him. As the gazes of the constellations lingered, Eric knew that he would navigate this treacherous landscape with wisdom.
He would emerge not just as a demigod but as a force to be reckoned with—one who could stand against the might of the constellations while leading the Truth Order to unparalleled heights.
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