The words on the pages of the book appeared one by one, as if it were writing itself—a storybook unfolding. Chapter titles emerged, though no one knew who was writing them. On Terra, there was a saying: that people's affinities were gifts from the gods at birth. But only a few believed it, as there was no evidence to support the claim.
"As for the gods—they are real. How do I know? Because I am the Celestial Creator, the author of this book. Yet even I don't understand why this book exists—it just appeared out of nowhere in that white void. The one thing I do know is that I must watch over two characters from this book—the main characters.
Don't ask me why, because I don't know that either. So, be patient until the MC uncovers the truth. Now, let's move on to the next topic: I, too, appeared out of nowhere in this place. I've been staying here ever since the main character was reincarnated.
Strangely enough, I don't even have access to edit the book. You might think that as the author, I should have control over it, but I don't. I have no memories, no explanation for why things are the way they are.
Anyway, that's enough talking from me. Let's switch to the main character's point of view now. Bye."
[POV: Levi]
After the duel, our parents rushed in, worried and shouting at me for hurting her, even though I kept telling them I didn't hurt her at all. Lyra quickly took a healing potion to mend her wounds, but there was something strange—an aura of hostility lingering in the air.
When I glanced over, I realized it was coming from Lyra. I couldn't figure out why she was so mad. Was it because I flicked her forehead before defeating her? Maybe. She had that proud, princess-like attitude, and losing, even after being reborn, must have stung.
But honestly? I don't care. I'm the villain, not some side character. Her pride isn't my problem. As the villain, my role is clear—make her ours. I'm not interested in the other main character or some random boy getting involved. Seriously, who wants to play along in someone else's story with overpowered characters and be stuck as a sidekick?
I've made my decision—being the villain is more fun. From now on, that's the only role I'll play.
Actually, I've figured something out. If I push the author's buttons—really tick him off—he gives me missions. That's why I swear at him every chance I get. Of course, this trick has its limits, and I can only pull it off once in a while. But it's worth it because I get rewards for completing those missions.
Sorry for not mentioning this sooner. Just like with my awakening, every time a mission pops up, there's a reward tied to it. And I've learned one thing: the author only has a limited number of times he can hand out quests. That's why I've been deliberately pissing him off. It's all part of the plan.
This is what happens when a normal side character gets a villain template. But don't compare me to that soul reaper from a certain anime or the love venerable from some light novel. I'm just a small-time villain. Ok, now to bring her under me I need to rizz her up but I don't know how to so comment me. Ok, done.
After that, we rejoined the party, and in the middle of it, Thorfinn arrived. Every time I hear his name, I feel a sense of calm, like a voice whispering, "you have no enemies." I know why it feels that way—because he's based on an anime character.
When I was three years old, I asked, "Why did you name that character Thorfinn?" And do you know what he said?
He said, "Thorfinn is a good name with a strong, well-written character. I liked him when I read that book, so I had to choose him. But what happens to him in the future? That, I don't know. It all depends on you. He may live or die, and as you know, he's a hero-type character, while you're the villain. You two are bound to clash eventually."
Well, yeah, it really does depend on me.
As I was chatting with you guys, Thorfinn spoke to the crowd at the party. "Hello, everyone. I hope you're all doing well. It's been four years since we last met—except for those of us who worked together on the recent incident. Today, we gather to honor our companions who gave their lives to secure the homeland we have now."
He looked like a man in his 50s, with yellow hair and pale skin, the wear of time visible in his eyes.
Maybe he sensed me watching him, because Thorfinn suddenly turned in my direction and gave me a gentle smile. Then, with that same warm expression, he walked over. He approached my father first.
"You've got a fine son here, huh? It's been a long time, Orion," Thorfinn said as he ruffled my father's hair.
"It's only been five years, Uncle," my father replied with a chuckle.
Now I understood why my grandfather was so close to Thorfinn—closer than with any of the other four clans. Thorfinn came up to me, lifted me off the ground effortlessly, and said, "You've got a lot of work ahead of you, kid."
I wasn't entirely sure what he meant, but I assumed it had something to do with protecting people from hollows.
"Yes, Grandpa! I'll work hard and be like my Dad, Grandpa, and you—to become strong enough to defeat even the highest-ranked hollows!" I said confidently.
"I believe in you, and be sure to come to me if you want me to teach you anything, okay?"
"Okay! I'll come to you when I need something."
He ruffled my hair before walking away, after a few more conversations with my family. I really like this dud hope he won't be a huge blockway for me in the future.