Before accepting the quest, Lorei and Rowillen retreated to their inn room for a private conversation. Rowillen appeared highly skeptical about the situation and expressed his concerns.
“Well, he doesn’t seem old enough to have a daughter. Chronologically speaking⋯⋯ it’s impossible for him to have a child of that age. I think this might be some sort of con.”
It was a reasonable suspicion.
Unless the Crazy Wizard was either a time-travelling elder or an elf, having a daughter that age would imply fathering a child well before hitting puberty.
Lorei nodded in agreement.
“That’s true, I’ve always thought Esteemed Junior was in his early twenties⋯⋯ but, you know, I genuinely believe there’s nothing impossible for him.”
“Excuse me?”
“Even if it defies logic, I have this unshakable certainty that he could somehow make it happen, though I couldn’t tell you how.”
Lorei reflected on past experiences.
Assigning physical force to illusions was a feat considered impossible—she herself had once said that such a task would require Sublimation to even attempt. Yet, he had done it.The human brain has its limits. Infusing it with magical formulas of such complexity should have caused his head to explode. She had advised him to abandon the idea. Yet, he had done it.
She had warned him that the Purple Magic Tower was full of unhinged lunatics, so he shouldn’t bother befriending anyone there. Yet, he had done it.
It was like…
“So⋯⋯ Rowillen, can you swing a sword to make it rain? Or turn stone into gold?”
“Assuming you don’t want me to threaten a wealthy wizard from the Blue Tower to do it⋯⋯ if you’re asking whether that’s purely possible, then no, those things are impossible.”
“He does things like that as effortlessly as eating a meal. That’s why the idea of him having an improbably aged illegitimate child doesn’t seem so far-fetched. Besides, she knows things only someone close to him could possibly know.”
Lorei didn’t simply believe the girl’s claims. Evil God-chan had divulged personal details about the Crazy Wizard, details Lorei had verified herself. All that was left was to accept it.
Or not.
The thought wasn’t, ‘ How could he have an illegitimate child this old?’
It was, ‘ I don’t know how it happened, but somehow it did.’
And…
“Perhaps, she’s a life created through Illusion Magic.”
“⋯⋯Isn’t that, too much of a stretch?”
“It is a stretch. It touches on the realm of creation itself. But, somehow, I feel Esteemed Junior might’ve pulled it off.
Rowillen clearly struggled to understand Lorei’s vague conviction, but such feelings were impossible to grasp without witnessing them firsthand.
It was like standing before a prodigy who would alter the course of history—a once-in-a-century, or perhaps even once-in-a-millennium, phenomenon.
It felt like standing in the presence of legends—the Dark Dragon Emperor who founded an empire or the Goddess who emerged from the depths of unbridled desire. Those awe-inspiring myths seemed to come alive before Lorei’s eyes.
She was certain she was witnessing the dawn of a new era.
===============================================================
Lorei and Rowillen were hired immediately and began their journey to the Academy alongside Evil God-chan.
For Lorei, the payment wasn’t particularly significant, but 7%’s connection with Esteemed
Junior made it impossible to refuse. For Rowillen, however, he genuinely liked the pay.
The veteran adventurer and wizard put their heads together, deliberating on how they would travel while leaving a lasting impression. If speed were the sole priority, teleportation magic would have been the obvious choice, but…
“Please, no teleportation.”
Due to their client’s request, they were restricted to a land route. So, they purchased a two-horse carriage and set off into the forest path.
To balance speed and safety, they plotted a route cutting directly through forests and mountains, almost in a straight line to the Academy. The route was decided until⋯⋯.
“Our trip might be a bit more comfortable if we passed through the Holy City, but considering the time it would—“
“Holy City? Turn the carriage around. That place still exists?”
⋯⋯At their client’s insistence, the route was revised to go through the Holy City before reaching the Academy.
The Holy City, Trumpethall.
This city served as the headquarters of the Goddess Church
While technically part of the Empire, the influence of the Goddess Church was so big that the Holy City functioned as a quasi-independent state. Currently, it was governed by a young pope, supported by a council of five cardinals
As the headquarters for the Church across the continent, the Holy City was home to priests of immense divine power. Those afflicted by severe curses or grievous injuries often sought healing here.
However, without heavy coin purses, access to the services of high-ranking clergy was unattainable. Thus, the Holy City had earned a reputation as a sanctuary for the wealthy⋯⋯ but…
“They say things are a bit different these days. Were they called the『Reformists』? I heard they believe the Goddess’s mercy should extend even to the poorest of the poor and are driving in a new wind in Holy City.”
“I’ve heard similar rumors. I’ve always thought the priests there too obsessed with wealth, so I’ve never liked them, but⋯⋯ maybe things will change?”
“I don’t know much about ideological or factional conflicts, but I just hope they lower treatment costs. I have a comrade who’s still limping while hunting goblins because he couldn’t afford proper healing.”
“That sounds more like a mental issue than a physical one. If you get the chance, bring him along next time.”
Seated side by side in the driver’s seat, Lorei and Rowillen exchanged thoughts about the state of the world. Rowillen then glanced back into the carriage and struck up a conversation with Evil God-chan, who was lying in there.
“Have you heard of the Hero Selection Tournament?”
“No. I have neve-, wait⋯⋯ are you saying they’re selecting a Hero through a tournament?”
“Yes. Apparently, the pope declared that he received a divine revelation from the Goddess. He was told to gather Hero candidates from all around the world and hold a tournament to choose the true Hero.”
Hearing this, Evil God-chan scoffed.
“How ridiculous. So?”
“I heard there’s going to be a grand festival happening. The tournament will begin soon. If we stayed for about two weeks⋯⋯ then you would be able to watch it. Customer, if you’re interested, I could arrange a schedule for you.”
“I’m fine with taking a day off to rest, but I don’t have the luxury for a sightseeing tour.”
“Understood. Then we’ll stop for supplies and rest for the night.”
Evil God-chan nodded curtly.
Despite her sharp tongue and complete lack of respect to elders, Rowillen was a little scratched, but managed to endure being called Beauty Mark Gay to his face.
After all, as long as the payment was guaranteed, the job came first. That was the code of veteran adventurer.
Clip clop. The sound of the horses’ hooves gradually faded into the distance.
===============================================================
“May I ask you what your name is?”
“No.”
The illegitimate daughter of Esteemed Junior, who had yet to disclose her name, had jet-black hair and striking blue eyes. Black hair was rare enough, so it strongly suggested a familial connection.
But it wasn’t just her appearance that convinced Lorei of her link to Esteemed Junior—it was her magic.
“Ugh, fuck off, you half-breed midgets.”
Flick. With just a casual flick of her finger from left to right, the goblin horde swarming their temporary campsite were terrified and escaped in all directions.
The spell she cast was a simple intimidation magic, but its intricacies were remarkable when analyzed in detail. She performed flawless, non-incantation casting without even saying the spell’s name, and her mana control was nothing short of extraordinary.
The girl was a powerful Illusion wizard.
It was this extraordinary talent that cemented Lorei’s belief in her connection to Esteemed Junior.
There were other subtle traits that reminded her of Esteemed Junior as well. For example, her rather sharp temperament (Esteemed Junior had once yelled at the Tower Master to cook him lamb chops).
“It’s a moth.”
“They’re probably drawn to the light. If it’s bothering you, Customer, I can⋯⋯ wait, why are you eating it?”
“Why wouldn’t I? It’s no different from beef jerky.”
Her thoughts often wandered into the most unexpected directions.
In many ways, this girl resembled the Crazy Wizard. Yet, for some reason⋯⋯ Lorei felt uncomfortable and uneasy around her. Why?
As they traveled, camping and continuing their journey in the carriage, Lorei thought about this inexplicable discomfort. Eventually, she came up with an answer
She had been thinking about it from the wrong perspective. The real question wasn’t why this girl made her uneasy—it was why Esteemed Junior, despite his eccentricity, never did.
She needed to think about that first.
If Esteemed Junior ever developed any evil intent, the world would be in chaos. His unpredictable nature meant he could create something weird in a single day. Something utterly catastrophic and world-threatening.
Yet Lorei had never worried about him. She had never considered killing Esteemed Junior preemptively to prevent some hypothetical disaster⋯⋯ or stuff like that.
Because she genuinely liked his kindness(善性).
She knew he genuinely wanted to make the world a better place.
But this girl was different. Her occasional flashes of malice, her disdainful tone, and her frightening talent combined to create an aura of unease.
“Whether it’s people, bugs, or jerky, it’s all the same lumps of stuff. I don’t see why we treat them differently.”
“⋯⋯⋯⋯.”
If this girl was evil, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Lorei’s unease, however, was completely resolved in the Holy City.
===============================================================
Evil God-chan let out a long yawn. It had been four days since they began traveling by carriage, and the group had finally arrived at the Holy City after riding intensively.
It had been a week since they left the Elmest Estate, meaning it had been 11 days since Crazy Wizard had abandoned her. The more she thought about it, the angrier she became.
The Holy City was alive with the excitement of the upcoming Hero Selection Tournament. Its pristine white architecture was bustling with lively music and excited crowds.
Portraits lined one side of the wall, depicting the participants of the Hero Selection Tournament—the Hero candidates.
“⋯⋯Eueck.”
Among them, there was a portrait of Bennet. Evil God-chan involuntarily stuck out her tongue as old traumas resurfaced. In her mind, he and his party were the ones responsible for derailing her life.
Noticing her gaze, Rowillen helpfully added an explanation.
“He is one of the『Reformists』, Bennett Hilton. I heard he infiltrated the Dark Wizard faction undercover and extracted valuable intelligence. Impressive, isn’t it?’”
“Impressive, my ass⋯⋯.”
Evil God-chan was ready to scoff but promptly bit her tongue. Sure, Tara and Niolle had their flaws, but that guy had never faltered. He had always been the steady one.
“Shall we eat here today and⋯⋯ book a room? I haven’t visited the Holy City often, but the last time I was here, I was quite satisfied with the place.”
“Then let’s do that. Does that work for you, customer?”
“Sure. Anywhere is fine, so let’s go somewhere I don’t have to see that damn portrait.”
Evil God-chan strode forward briskly. When they entered the inn, it was packed with a lively crowd, adding to the festival atmosphere.
With no tables available, they settled at a makeshift counter. They ordered some simple stew and beer.
Festival… A festival, huh?
The Hero was the Sword of the Goddess. And the Goddess was no ally of that ‘thing . ’ The Goddess sought to erase “ it ,” an entity spreading peculiar influences across the continent.
Thus, the Hero posed a threat. Naturally, “ it “ had taken precautions.
Evil God-chan vaguely remembered that some form of trickery⋯⋯ had been used to prevent the creation of Heroes. However, the specifics were hazy.
For those details, Crazy Wizard still had the full memory of the remaining 93% locked up.
So, the Hero⋯⋯ couldn’t be created?
Evil God-chan rested her chin in her hand, pondering the peculiarities of the situation. There was something undeniably strange about the happenings in Holy City. Such events were often intricately tied to people’s ambitions and hidden schemes.
This seemed like the perfect opportunity to interfere. By stirring the pot just a little, countless tragedies could unfold in a cascade of vibrant, chaotic patterns.
Squelch.
“⋯⋯ Fine, I get it.”
Evil God-chan scratched at the『Golden Headband』 as it tightened, almost as if it were warning her. No mischief, no meddling—life was no fun.
At least she had already managed to screw over one boy indirectly⋯⋯ Just thinking about it sent an odd sting through her chest. It was probably an excitement. Once she heard of the calamity that would fall on him, this feeling would undoubtedly turn into joy.
As Evil God-chan amused herself with these thoughts, a commotion reached her ears.
“Hey, this gentleman is a bona fide Hero candidate! When else will you get a chance to meet someone like him up close? Go on, pour him a drink already!”
“U-uhm, I am um⋯⋯.”
A group occupying two tables was harassing a female waitress, who stood trembling before them. It was an all-too-common occurrence.
The apparent ringleader, a young man with slick, seaweed-green hair, wore a smug grin.
“Hey, guys, take it easy. Can’t you see she’s uncomfortable? Eung? I’m sorry. My friends can get a little rowdy with their jokes. But I’d still like to apologize. Why don’t you come a little closer?”
“No, I was just⋯⋯.”
“I said I want to apologize. What, are you trying to make me a bad guy? Just come here for a moment.”
“The Hero candidate here says he wants to apologize! Are you deaf?!”
A bald man from the group bellowed, as he threateningly raised his voice. The sound made the waitress flinch. How could an ordinary worker endure such intimidation?
It was clear what was happening.
The waitress could undoubtedly feel the lecherous intent in Seaweed-head’s gaze. While he feigned innocence, his mind was clearly preoccupied with his desires. He was just delegating the dirty work to his lackeys.
His every movement radiated arrogance. He looked like a bumbling fool who had stumbled upon sudden wealth overnight. Pathetic.
If he wanted to fulfill his desires without repercussions, there were far more subtle and refined ways to go about it.
Evil God-chan shifted her gaze elsewhere. Rowillen and Lorei sipped their beer, having a quiet conversation. Though they were aware of the disturbance, they showed no intention of stepping in.
Occasionally, they shot annoyed glances in Seaweed-head’s direction, but that was the extent of it.
It was only logical. They were hired to protect Evil God-chan, and their mission took precedence. Even without a mission⋯⋯ interfering in such matters wouldn’t do them any good.
But.
“Hey, hey. Stop. Sorry, I misunderstood.”
“Ah, uhh⋯⋯.”
“I thought you were a bitch who wanted to keep living a safe and long life. Take the day off, yeah?”
“Pardon⋯⋯?”
The waitress’s face froze, drained of color. Seaweed-head’s voice dropped, laced with malice, even as he maintained a smile.
“By the way, that brunette who used to work here—what was her name⋯⋯ Never mind. Are you close with her?”
“I- I don’t kn⋯⋯.”
“Ah, you don’t even know her? I knew it.”
The implied threat left the waitress struggling to breathe.
Evil God-chan was frustrated. Half-hearted scoundrels like these were the worst. If they were going to spew threats, couldn’t they⋯⋯ at least put some effort into it?
She had had enough.
She wanted to put that smug bastard in his place. Evil God-chan smirked, unable to resist. Acting high and mighty in front of me huh? It was unbearable. So she quickly made a plan.
Seaweed-head showed signs of training, and it was likely he had undergone Metamorphosis. She just had a feeling. Even if she joined forces with Lorei and Rowillen, she calculated that she’d still lose against him.
Despite his repulsive personality, he clearly possessed skill— that was probably the reason why he was able to earn the title of Hero candidate. So combat was out of the question.
This inn… it only had that one waitress. Okay.
Lorei’s Magic Tower hood obscured her gender, making it easy to pass off her group as entirely male escorts. Perfect.
Evil God-chan grabbed Rowillen’s half-finished beer.
“Hey, I’m borrowing this.”
“Customer⋯⋯?”
Splaash-!
She poured the beer onto her chest, altering her voice simultaneously. Using a minor spell to amplify her tone, she ensured her voice carried over the bustling crowd.
“ Ggyaaah──! Wha-what do I do! I spilled it by accident⋯⋯.”
In the middle of the crowded room, the supposed accident drew every gaze. She feigned embarrassment, fidgeting in mock panic while stomping her feet. Her damp clothes clung to her skin as she pretended to cover herself, crouching in a defensive posture.
“C-Customer?”
“No, Rowillen. What do you mean, you’ll wipe it for me? Who would let a man see or touch a woman’s body⋯⋯?!”
“???”
Evil God-chan had cast her line, and the waitress eagerly took the bait.
“I’m so s-sorry! But uh⋯⋯ I think I should help this Lady, so.”
“Yeah, yeah. I wasn’t forcefully holding you back or anything. Just⋯⋯ be smart about it.”
“⋯⋯⋯⋯.”
The waitress hiccupped and trembled as she approached Evil God-chan. She had managed to escape the situation for the moment, but now appeared clearly uncertain about what to do next. She was completely confused.
“I’ll, I’ll help.”
“Good. Take me to an empty room if there’s one available. Lead the way.”
“Yes⋯⋯?”
===============================================================
The waitress guided Evil God-chan to a vacant room, away from prying eyes. The moment the door shut, Evil God-chan’s face changed in an instant. From a shy, flustered girl to a mischievous rogue.
Snap.
She snapped her fingers (she couldn’t even make a sound), and her soaked clothing dried instantly. The waitress gasped, clearly startled by that moment.
“Are you a wizard⋯⋯? T-Then why⋯⋯.”
“Yes, I’m a wizard. Now listen carefully. Go to the innkeeper, ask for a mug of beer and slip this into it. Then serve it to that Seaweed-head.”
Zzezezeck.
A slick, ominous black scale emerged from Evil God-chan’s left arm. She plucked it off and handed it to the waitress.
“And just play along with whatever he says. If he tries to drag you to a room, don’t resist—let him believe he had his way with you. In reality, he’ll just pass out cold.”
“⋯⋯⋯⋯.”
The waitress finally seemed to have understood the situation. Tears welled up in her eyes as she bowed deeply, a perfect 90 degrees.
“T-Thank you. I don’t even know how I can repay you.”
“Thank Seaweed-head. He’s the one who pissed me off.”
“Thank you, thank you very much. I’ll never forget this. Ms. Wizard⋯⋯!”
“Yeah, yeah. Get going.”
Color returned to the waitress’s pale face. Evil God-chan waved her out coolly without saying anything. Clutching the black scale tightly, she stepped out as she repeatedly thanked her.
A few moments later, Rowillen and Lorei entered the room. Both seemed taken aback by Evil God-chan’s impulsive behavior.
“Customer, what did you just do?”
“I just did something to piss off that Seaweed-head. Don’t worry; I made sure it wouldn’t blow back on us. If there’s an extra charge for the trouble, let Crazy Wizard cover it.”
“⋯⋯At least warn us next time. Rowillen and I were caught off guard. That said, well done. Rowillen, no extra fee for this. Agreed?”
“Yes. I wouldn’t have stopped you if you had told me earlier. Great job.”
The tension in the room dissipated, replaced by a more relaxed atmosphere. After all, who wouldn’t act up if they could do a good deed without incurring trouble?
Lorei, in particular, seemed noticeably relieved. Her wariness toward Evil God-chan had clearly lessened after this incident.
This was exactly what Evil God-chan had wanted. Not only had she sabotaged Seaweed-head’s plans, but she had also begun to earn the trust of Crazy Wizard’s associate. It was all calculated. Wearing a mask of kindness now meant that she could set up a much more devastating betrayal later.
It was evil wrapped in calculation.
“⋯⋯⋯⋯.”
Yet, in the depths of her mind, strange words lingered.
Thank you very much.
Good job.
Words like that circled her thoughts like echoes.
A feeling of warmth spread within her chest. Her heart raced as she recalled handing the black scale to the waitress, replaying those words of gratitude in her mind.
No. This wasn’t right. Could it be the Golden Headband’s mental attack? What kind of emotion was this? I wasn’t trying to save her or anything.
It was confusing.
I am a nightmare! I am a being that exists to bring pain, despair, and twisted pleasure!
Evil God-chan slapped her forehead and muttered to herself, desperate to suppress the overwhelming emotions welling up inside her.
“Ha, it’s nothing, ha, this, what I meant to do, really⋯⋯.”
Flustered words came out uncharacteristically.
In the end, she had tasted the intoxicating high of doing a good deed.
***
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