Chapter 10: Chapter 10
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Musashi lounged effortlessly within the confines of the Stigmata Space, her posture relaxed yet poised, as she watched the scene unfold before her. The air around her shimmered faintly, and her Kiseru rested lazily between her fingers. She took a slow, deliberate drag, the smoke curling upward like a ghost of her thoughts.
"Now, show them," she murmured, a sly smirk tugging at her lips, her eyes glinting with anticipation. "Show these so-called 'Heroes' exactly what a Herrscher of Finality is capable of, Masachika Kuze."
The smoke swirled and dissipated, much like the uncertainty swirling in the minds of her would-be adversaries. Musashi's gaze remained fixed, unwavering, her voice soft yet laced with an unmistakable certainty.
"This is going to be fun."
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Masachika's gaze narrowed as the UI System quest popped up in front of him. His thoughts immediately went into overdrive.
[Quest]
[Description: You have been isolated by the Barrier Space and confronted by four Heroes from the Hero Clan. Fight your way through them.]
[Defeat the Heroes (0/4)]
[Reward: ???]
"Is that so?" Masachika muttered, his voice heavy with annoyance. "I was already planning to teach them a lesson, but now it seems like it's officially a quest."
His mind quickly ran through his options, weighing each one with cold calculation. The consequences of failure held no weight—he wasn't about to lose to a group of self-proclaimed "heroes." The real question was how much of a show he'd need to put on to make them realize the colossal mistake they'd made.
Taking a deep breath, Masachika centered himself. "Alright, let's make this interesting," he murmured, his fists clenching as an intense, almost tangible aura began to swirl around him. "Time to show these so-called 'heroes' just what they're up against."
Just as he readied himself to strike, a flicker of white movement caught his eye. He turned, his gaze snapping to the source. There, unmistakable and impossible to ignore, was a tail. Not just any tail—but nine flowing, ethereal tails, swaying behind him in a display of sheer power.
'WHAAAATTT!!'
Masachika screamed internally, his mind reeling to process the bizarre turn of events. Tentatively, he reached up to his head, his fingers brushing against soft, pointed ears—a pair of fox ears now perched atop his skull. He couldn't believe it.
'Fox ears and a tail? What the hell was happening?'
He wanted to voice his disbelief, to shout out or scream, but before he could, his senses flared, the hair on the back of his neck standing on end. Danger was imminent.
"Prepare yourself!"
Takashi roared, charging forward with Byakko, his gleaming white lance raised, ready to strike. Yuki was right behind him, her blade, Sakuya, shimmering with power, while Kurumi soared into the sky, lifted by the wind spirit, positioning herself for a long-range attack. Shiba, ever the strategist, hung back, observing the flow of the fight with calculated calm.
Masachika snapped back to the present.
'No time for this nonsense.'
Shoving his shock aside, he activated the Authority of Stars.
In an instant, the air around him grew impossibly dense, the atmosphere itself seemingly pressing in. A crushing gravitational force erupted outward from him, pulling everything around him toward the earth. Kurumi, who had been floating high above and preparing to assist, was yanked from the air, slamming hard into the ground with a gasp of shock.
The environment around them buckled under the sheer force of Masachika's power. Houses, trees, and everything within the Barrier Space were crushed by the overwhelming gravitational pull. The ground itself groaned in protest, cracks spider-webbing outwards as it struggled to bear the immense pressure. The once vibrant landscape, teeming with life, was now reduced to a flattened, lifeless wasteland, as if the very earth had been forced into submission.
"W-what is… this…?"
Takashi grunted, desperately trying to push himself off the ground. His body trembled beneath the unbearable weight, as if an entire mountain had been placed squarely on his back. Every breath felt like a struggle, each movement an agonizing effort.
"Can't… move…"
Yuki muttered under her breath, her efforts to stand failing in the face of the crushing gravity. Her hand reached out, straining to grab her fallen sword, Sakuya, but the weight pressing down on her was too much. It felt as if the very earth had become her enemy, each attempt to rise only deepening her struggle.
"Ugh…"
Kurumi fought with the same desperation, her body futilely attempting to rise against the gravity. Each effort felt like wading through an ocean of stone, her limbs sluggish, every movement stifled by the oppressive weight that seemed to drain her very will.
Even Shiba, who had maintained his calm and confident demeanor up until this point, found himself on his knees. His body trembled, straining against the immense force. His signature smirk had vanished, replaced by a grimace of effort as he fought to maintain his balance.
"Now… this is… unpleasant…"
Shiba muttered, his voice strained, barely able to speak against the pressure that threatened to break him. Every fiber of his body screamed for relief, yet he knew it would take everything he had just to remain upright.
Kurumi gasped for air, struggling to push through the suffocating pressure, her mind quickly piecing together the nature of the overwhelming force.
"This is... Gravity Magic!" she exclaimed, her voice strained but sharp enough to cut through the oppressive silence.
The words hit like a lightning bolt. Takashi's eyes widened in shock, his grip tightening around his lance as he attempted to lift it.
"Gravity Magic? The same power that... Demon King Wilbert wields?"
Yuki's head snapped towards Kurumi, her face drained of color, disbelief and fear flashing in her eyes.
"You're saying... he can control... Gravity?"
Before Kurumi could respond, Masachika scoffed, the sound cold and dismissive. His golden eyes locked onto them, devoid of any empathy or mercy.
"Hmph, so you figured it out. And?"
His voice sliced through the heavy atmosphere, sharp and laced with contempt.
"Do you think knowing that changes anything? Let me make one thing clear..."
With deliberate steps, Masachika advanced, his feet crushing the earth beneath him as the ground fractured and crumbled. It was as if the world itself was bending under his immense presence. The gravitational pressure surged, becoming even more unbearable. The air around him warped, rippling as shadows deepened unnaturally. A black sphere began to coalesce around him, a Quasi-Black Hole, pulsing ominously. It devoured light and energy, casting a chilling aura of doom over the entire area.
"I haven't even used a fraction of my true power."
Masachika's voice cut through the air, calm yet laced with an undeniable menace. His golden eyes burned brighter, casting a sickly light that illuminated his fox ears and tails, which swayed with an unnerving elegance.
"If I unleashed even the slightest fraction of my power, this entire world—humans, gods, demons, heroes—every last one of you would be wiped from existence," he declared, his words laced with cold finality.
He raised his gaze, locking eyes with each of them, his smirk a chilling, predatory warning.
"So tell me…" His voice dripped with disdain, "Do you still want to press your luck? Or would you prefer to retreat and count this as the day you narrowly avoided total annihilation?"
The air around them thickened, the Quasi-Black Hole crackling with raw energy, its presence a terrifying reminder of the reality in his words.
Pinned to the ground by the immense gravitational force, each of them felt the weight intensify. Their bodies shook uncontrollably as they fought to stay conscious. Takashi's grip on Byakko faltered, the lance slipping from his fingers. Yuki and Kurumi gasped for breath, their vision swimming as the pressure crushed down upon them. Even Shiba, who had remained relatively unfazed, now found himself crumpled to the ground, sweat pouring down his face as he struggled to maintain his grip on reality.
Masachika's expression remained unyielding, his gaze cold as he surveyed the broken, helpless forms of his so-called opponents.
The Quasi-Black Hole around him pulsed ominously, its gravitational pull distorting the air, bending reality itself in a grotesque display of power. His voice rang out, deliberate and commanding, like thunder from the depths of a storm.
"This is a message," he said, each word laced with threat. "Not just for you, but for the entire Hero Clan. Go back to your Elders. Tell them what happened here. Tell them what awaits if they dare cross me again."
He let his words hang in the thick silence, the weight of his power hanging in the air like a suffocating fog. His eyes gleamed with the certainty of his dominance.
"Remember this moment," he added, his tone darkening to something even more chilling. "Because next time, I won't be so generous."
The two Quasi-Black Holes pulsed violently, each beat sending waves of terror crashing into the hearts of the subdued heroes. They knew, beyond any doubt, that they were up against something far beyond their comprehension—an overwhelming force capable of erasing their very existence with a single thought.
With a final, dismissive gesture, Masachika deactivated the Authority of Stars. The crushing gravitational weight that had pinned them to the ground vanished instantly, as though a massive, invisible burden had been lifted from the very fabric of existence. The two Quasi-Black Holes, once pulsating with malevolent energy, dissolved into nothingness, their terrifying pull vanishing as quickly as it had appeared.
It had never been a true Black Hole. Had it been, the consequences would have been catastrophic. The Earth itself would have been torn violently from its orbit, cast into the cold, empty void. Even in a separate dimension, a fully formed Black Hole with mass would have unleashed apocalyptic destruction, annihilating the entire solar system in its wake.
Takashi, his body still trembling from the force he had endured, slowly rose to his feet, legs unsteady beneath him. His eyes, wide with disbelief, now held a glimmer of realization. The full weight of what Masachika had just demonstrated pressed down on him like an impending storm.
"Y-You... are not going to kill us?" Takashi's voice wavered, a trace of panic edging his tone. The residual ache from the gravitational force still burned in his body, each breath coming in shallow gasps. His words barely reached Masachika, but the intensity was clear—he couldn't fathom what had just happened.
The others fared no better. Yuki, Kurumi, and Shiba struggled to regain their footing, their faces pale from the brutal pressure. Each of them was battered, shaken, and forced to confront the terrifying gap between them and the being before them.
Masachika's eyes narrowed as he turned toward them, the cold glint of contempt never leaving his expression. His power, contained yet undeniable, crackled around him, like the air just before a storm breaks. It was a reminder—he could shatter their world in an instant if he so chose.
"I told you," Masachika's voice rang out, as calm as it was chilling. "This is just a message. A warning to leave me alone. Cross me again, and I'll show you what true annihilation looks like."
His words, though spoken lightly, hung in the air with a deadly finality. There was no mistaking the threat in them. Masachika's eyes glowed ominously, a silent promise of the destruction he could unleash with the mere flick of a wrist. The pressure around them, the weight of his presence, became unbearable, as if the very air was heavy with the possibility of their destruction.
The heroes, now fully aware of their insignificance in the face of his power, hesitated, unsure of what to do. The realization was sinking in, painfully clear—there was nothing they could do. They were outclassed, outmatched, and completely at his mercy.
Masachika let the silence stretch for a moment, his gaze cool and dismissive.
"Now, get lost," he said with a casual flick of his hand, the threat still hanging thick in the air.
Masachika's voice rang with an undeniable finality, an unspoken promise that there was no room for dispute. His golden eyes glowed with an intensity that sent a cold shiver down the spines of the four heroes. Each word he spoke was like a hammer, ensuring that his message was clear and unequivocal.
The battered and exhausted heroes exchanged quick, cautious glances. Fear lingered in their eyes, and despite their pride, they could no longer muster the courage to challenge him. Reluctantly, they accepted their defeat. Without uttering a single word, they began to disperse, their movements slow and hesitant, as if not wanting to provoke him further. Takashi, still struggling against the lingering effects of the crushing force, turned his attention to the Barrier Space, working quickly to dispel it.
As the shimmering green field that had once encapsulated them began to fade, reality seemed to shift, bending and twisting as the Barrier Space collapsed. The destruction wrought by Masachika's Authority of Stars began to reverse, the crushed houses and structures gradually restoring themselves, as if time itself were rewinding to undo the damage. The once shattered landscape began to take shape again, a surreal sight of restoration.
Masachika stood motionless, his gaze fixed on the heroes as they retreated into the distance, his expression unreadable. Once they were no longer in sight, he let out a long, drawn-out sigh, his posture relaxing just a fraction.
"Troublesome,"
he muttered, almost to himself, his voice laced with irritation as he glanced at his reflection in a nearby window. His fox ears and tails, still present, flicked slightly in his frustration—a lingering reminder of the strange transformation he'd undergone. He sighed again, rubbing his temples as the weight of the situation settled on him.
"Musashi," he called, his tone a mix of annoyance and resignation. "You have some explaining to do."
With a light step, Musashi materialized from the Stigmata Space, her face radiant with amusement. She took one look at Masachika's disheveled state and couldn't suppress a chuckle.
"My, whatever do you mean, Masachika?"
she teased, her voice playful, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
Masachika's frustration only deepened.
"The ears and tails, Musashi. Why the hell do I have these right now?!"
Musashi's expression softened into something closer to fondness, but there was still a glint of amusement in her gaze.
"Ah, well, it's your Herrscher Form, you know."
"My Herrscher Form?" Masachika repeated, his voice low and skeptical, as if he couldn't quite believe what he was hearing.
"Yes, the ears and tails are a sign of your transformation," Musashi explained, her voice calm and reassuring. "Whenever you tap into your Herrscher power, they'll reveal themselves. But even when you're not actively using your abilities, you can still will them into existence. If you don't want them to appear, you can simply will them back, and they'll disappear."
"I see…" Masachika murmured, processing the information. His mind was already beginning to shift into tactical mode, considering how best to utilize these new powers.
Musashi's tone remained steady as she continued, "And there's more. Your tails aren't just a physical manifestation. They have practical uses in combat. They're not just for show—they have immense potential when integrated into your battle style."
"Is that so?" Masachika's eyes flickered with a spark of curiosity, his earlier frustration momentarily forgotten. "Then I can't wait to try incorporating them into my Martial Arts training from the Military."
The idea of combining his newfound abilities with his rigorous training sparked a fire within him. He could already imagine how the tails might enhance his strikes, adding an unpredictable and lethal edge to his martial techniques. His fingers twitched with quiet anticipation.
Unbeknownst to him, his tails swayed slightly from left to right, a subtle sign of his satisfaction. Musashi, noticing this, couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle at the sight.
"Hmm? What are you laughing at?" Masachika asked, his gaze narrowing as he noticed the amused glint in Musashi's eyes.
"Oh, nothing," she replied casually, though her voice carried a hint of mischief. She quickly masked her expression, but there was an undeniable sparkle in her eyes.
What Masachika didn't notice, however, was that his tails, still swaying gently, betrayed him. The movement was subtle but unmistakable—he was clearly pleased. Musashi, aware of this, hid her smile behind a feigned indifference, her tail twitching ever so slightly as she tried to contain her amusement.
"But anyway, I have to say... that fight was incredibly boring," Masachika muttered, his tone dripping with disappointment. Even his ears and tails drooped, mirroring the dull frustration he felt. The entire encounter had been so one-sided that it left him feeling empty. With just the Authority of Stars, he had incapacitated four seasoned heroes from the Hero Clan with minimal effort.
"Well, what do you expect?" Musashi remarked, her tone light as she observed his reaction. A faint smirk tugged at her lips, carrying a playful edge. "The only ones who could even remotely challenge you," she continued, her voice casual yet cutting, "are probably Trihexa—though even it would be left behind as you continue to grow. Then there's the Cocoon of Finality, Belfast, and of course, Belfast's Creator. Everyone else? They're just ants trying to withstand a typhoon."
Masachika sighed deeply, his frustration clear in the exhale.
"I know, but... it's just... sigh."
His voice trailed off as he rubbed his temples, trying to shake the feeling. He knew he needed to send a clear message, one that left no room for doubt about his power. But, to him, the whole display felt so meaningless—an effort that would soon fade away, like a whisper in the wind. No matter how grand it seemed, it never felt substantial enough.
All Masachika could do was release a sigh, the weariness evident in his expression. That was it. No thrill, no satisfaction—just a hollow reminder of how far above the others he truly stood.
"Hey, cheer up, Masachika," Musashi teased, her voice light but with a knowing edge. "You should know that if you fail to submit your Daily Quest, you're going straight to Hell. I don't know what kind of Hell you'll end up in, but it's bound to be filled with some seriously powerful beings."
Masachika blinked, momentarily snapping out of his frustration, before he sighed. "Oh, right. That... but speaking of quests, let's see what kind of reward I get for taking down those four heroes."
A faint smile tugged at his lips, and as if on cue, his ears and tails perked back up to their usual lively state. He opened the quest window, and the words appeared before him, filling the air with a soft, digital hum.
[Quest]
[Defeat the Four Heroes (4/4)]
[Reward : ???]
[do you want to Submit the Quest?]
"Yes," Masachika confirmed.
With a brief notification sound, the system flashed once more, revealing the reward. Masachika's eyes widened in disbelief as he stared at the message. He had just been thinking about this, and now it was in front of him.
[Congratulations, you have acquired Abyss Flower.]
Masachika's eyes widened as the realization hit him—he had just acquired one of the Divine Keys from Honkai Impact 3rd.
The spear's design was nothing short of breathtaking. It has a sleek and futuristic design, combining elements of elegance and sharpness. The main blade is white with a smooth, polished surface, curving gracefully while tapering to a sharp, glowing purple tip. The base of the blade has subtle, angular extensions resembling fins or wings, accentuated with purple highlights.
The shaft is dark, contrasting with the bright blade, and features intricate patterns or carvings, adding a sense of detail. The spear's secondary blade, located near the lower part, is smaller, matching the color scheme of white and purple, creating a balanced, symmetrical design.
Masachika reached out and grasped the spear, feeling its immense energy resonate through him. With a fluid motion, he twirled it effortlessly, the air humming as the weapon sliced through it. He couldn't help but marvel at the balance and grace the [Abyss Flower] offered.
Musashi, watching Masachika skillfully twirl the [Abyss Flower] beside him, couldn't help but let out an impressed whistle.
"Whistle Now that's a fine spear," she remarked, her tone brimming with admiration.
"You can say that again," Masachika replied with a grin, admiring the weapon's sleek form as it danced in his hands. "And what's more, it's perfect for me."
"Hmm? Perfect how?" Musashi tilted her head, curious.
"Well," Masachika said, pausing his movements to hold the spear firmly, its glowing highlights reflecting in his eyes.
"I've always envisioned my main weapons being a spear and a gauntlet. This spear feels like it was made for me—like it's meant to be part of my style."
Masachika firmly stabbed the spear into the ground, its glowing highlights shimmering faintly as it stood upright. He couldn't help but smile, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. Having a weapon like this meant more than just increased strength—it meant versatility, something he valued greatly.
"This is exactly what I needed," he muttered to himself. "It's good to have a weapon I can rely on, other than just my Herrscher Powers."
With a satisfied nod, he reached out and stored the [Abyss Flower] into his Inventory, the spear vanishing in a soft pulse of light.
Musashi, who had been watching the entire time, smirked as she crossed her arms and leaned back slightly, her tone laced with approval.
"Hah, I see. You've got good taste, I'll give you that."
Her words carried a playful edge, but there was no mistaking the genuine respect behind them.
"of course, now. let's get out of here."
Masachika gave a slight nod to himself and willed his Fox ears and nine tails to disappear. Musashi gave him a brief nod of acknowledgment before stepping back into the Stigmata Space, her presence vanishing in the blink of an eye. With the exchange complete, Masachika focused for a moment and activated the Authority of Void. without a sound, he disappeared from the spot.
Far from where Masachika had disappear, a figure watched intently, her eyes fixed on the events unfolding within the Barrier Space. It was Chisato.
Like Yuki, Chisato had been keeping an eye on Masachika. However, unlike Yuki, she had managed to avoid detection. Why? Because she was positioned just outside of his Extrasensory Perception range, far enough to sense the Corruptive Energy he emitted without being noticed. As she observed him being shadowed by the Hero Clan, preparing for an ambush, her curiosity deepened. What kind of power did he truly wield?
As she entered the Barrier Space, Chisato could feel the weight of the energy Masachika wielded. Though it emanated Corruptive Energy, there was something undeniably powerful about it. It was unlike anything she had felt before—an energy that resonated with a presence from a Higher Dimension. The sheer magnitude of it left her intrigued, and a sense of unease crept into her thoughts. She couldn't yet grasp its full extent, but one thing was clear: Masachika was no ordinary person.
As Chisato watched the confrontation unfold between Masachika and the Four Heroes, she quickly realized it wasn't even a fight. It was one-sided, with the Heroes completely powerless, helplessly pinned to the ground under the overwhelming force. The terror that gripped her deepened when she recognized that Masachika wielded the same power that Demon Lord Wilbert had once used—effortlessly, without breaking a sweat.
The destruction he left in his wake was unimaginable. The very landscape had been flattened, nothing but rubble and ruin remained, with only Masachika and the Four Heroes still visible, trapped beneath the crushing weight.
Even from her far-off position, Chisato could feel the intense gravitational force pressing down on her. The pressure was so immense that she almost bent to her knees, her body instinctively resisting the crushing weight. But what truly struck fear into her heart was the sight of a Black Hole forming beside him when he uses his power. The sheer magnitude of its presence filled her with a deep, primal dread, as she realized just how far Masachika's power could reach.
She understood that it wasn't a real Black Hole; if it had been, the consequences would have been unimaginable. The Earth, along with the entire Solar System, would have been obliterated, wiped out of existence in an instant—a thought that sent a chill down her spine.
Thanks to the Barrier Space created by the Heroes to contain their battle, the surrounding area returned to normal, with no visible signs of destruction. However, the memory of the devastation Masachika had caused remained etched deeply in Chisato's mind, leaving an impression she couldn't shake.
"Masachika Kuze… where did you gain this kind of power…"
Chisato muttered, her voice a mixture of disbelief and unease.
As the school nurse at Seirei Academy, Chisato had never personally interacted with Masachika, but she had access to all the students' data. Nothing in his records hinted at the possibility of him wielding such overwhelming power, let alone the ability to unleash it with such ease.
Now, after witnessing the sheer scale of destruction he had brought forth, she was certain of one thing: Masachika Kuze could not be left unchecked. She would need to watch him closely from now on. His potential for chaos far exceeded anything she had anticipated, and if left to his own devices, there was no telling the havoc he might wreak.
The very thought of him losing control sent a chill down her spine. She couldn't afford to underestimate him—not anymore.
With her resolve set, Chisato turned and left the area, her mind focused on finding Masachika, who had seemingly teleported away. She had to track him down, no matter what it took.
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When I teleported back home, I was greeted by Belfast standing gracefully at the entrance, her figure as poised as always.
"Welcome home, Masachika-sama," she said, her voice soft and refined, followed by a deep, respectful bow.
"Un, I'm back, Belfast," I replied, a sense of comfort washing over me at the familiar sight of her.
Reaching into my inventory, I pulled out the lunchbox she had made and handed it over to her with a small, appreciative smile.
"Thanks for the lunchbox, Belfast. It was fantastic," I said earnestly. The taste was truly exquisite—each bite had been a small delight, and I could tell the care she put into it.
Belfast's expression softened, a hint of warmth in her eyes as she accepted the compliment.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it, Masachika-sama," she replied, her tone pleased but composed.
With a quiet sigh, I made my way to my room to change into a more casual outfit, feeling the need to unwind after the day's events. Once I was comfortable, I headed to the living room and settled onto the couch, letting my body relax into the cushions. I leaned back and closed my eyes for a moment, allowing myself to drift into thought.
I was planning to use this time to prepare myself. The thought of the looming Daily Quest weighed on my mind, specifically the unknowns of Hell. I wanted to understand what kind of place it was before the time limit ran out.
Suddenly, I heard the sound of a cup being gently placed down, followed by the soft rustling of fabric. I opened my eyes to see Belfast standing beside me, her presence as composed as ever.
"Masachika-sama, please have some tea. It will help you relax after your encounter with the Four Heroes," she said, her voice calm and soothing, radiating warmth.
"Thank you, Belfast," I replied, taking the cup from her, feeling the warmth seep through the porcelain as I brought it to my lips.
As I took a sip of the tea she'd prepared, a sense of tranquility washed over me. It was as if all the tension from the day melted away, replaced by a soothing calm that grounded me. I could feel my mind clear, my thoughts becoming sharper. The warmth of the tea mirrored the peaceful atmosphere that Belfast always seemed to create.
"Belfast," I began, sitting up slightly and turning toward her. "I want to ask—do you know what Hell is like?"
She looked at me, her expression thoughtful. "Why do you want to know, Masachika-sama?"
I leaned back into the couch, taking a slow sip of tea. "It's related to the Daily Quest. I just want to know more about the place I'll be thrown into."
Her gaze softened as she processed my words, but she didn't seem entirely surprised. "I see. But, Masachika-sama, shouldn't you already be familiar with the Hell?"
"Hmm? What do you mean by that?" I raised an eyebrow, curious about her response.
"Well," she said, her voice calm, "are you familiar with Doom?"
"Doom?" I blinked, a bit confused. "Are you talking about the Doom games?"
"Yes, that's right," she confirmed. "The place you'll be sent to is similar to the Hell portrayed in those games. It's a brutal, unforgiving place. You'll face constant battles and unimaginable horrors."
"I see," I muttered, tapping my fingers lightly on the armrest. "So, I assume that the moment I step into Hell, I'll be swarmed by countless demons, right?"
"Yes, that's correct, Masachika-sama," Belfast replied with a composed nod.
"I see…"
I said, my voice trailing off as I thought about the situation. The idea of being in a place like Hell was oddly appealing to me. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to truly unleash all of my power, without worrying about any consequences or restrictions. The thought brought a small, satisfied smile to my face as I leaned back into the couch.
'Musashi, with the Authority of Truth, I can create anything using my imagination, without needing any knowledge of the underlying structure or mechanisms, right?'
I asked Musashi, who was lounging lazily in the Stigmata Space, her posture relaxed but her sharp eyes giving away her ever-alert nature.
'Yeah, that's right,' Musashi replied casually, stretching her arms. 'As long as you can clearly imagine what you want to construct, it'll come into existence. Doesn't matter if you know how it works or not—the Authority will fill in the gaps and make it real.'
'I see… Thanks.'
I responded mentally, a smirk already forming on my lips. The possibilities were endless. With this Authority, I could turn pure imagination into reality, creating weapons, tools, or anything else I needed without being hindered by a lack of technical knowledge.
Musashi's voice cut through my thoughts.
'You look like you've got something interesting brewing in that head of yours. Just don't get carried away, alright? This kind of power's easy to abuse if you're not careful.'
'I know, I'm not Light Yagami you know.'
I replied with a faint chuckle. But deep down, I couldn't help but feel a surge of exhilaration.
This Authority wasn't just powerful—it was limitless. And now, I intended to make full use of it.
I then stand up from the couch and look at Daily Quest to see the time limit for the Quest.
[Time Limit : 5 Hour 30 minutes 12 second]
[Time Limit : 5 Hour 30 minutes 11 second]
[Time Limit : 5 Hour 30 minutes 10 second]
As I noticed the time ticking down, I realized I had more than enough time to prepare my arsenal of weapons to slaughter the demons in Hell, even though I could easily destroy them with my Herrscher power alone. I turned to Belfast and began to speak.
"Belfast, I'll be in my room r—"
But before I could finish, my stomach growled loudly, betraying my hunger.
growl
I froze for a moment.
"..."
Belfast and I shared a brief, awkward silence, before she let out a soft chuckle.
"Fufu, I'll prepare dinner first then, Masachika-sama. I'll let you know when it's done."
"cough A-alright. I leave that to you, Belfast,"
I said, my face slightly flushed as I hurried off to my room to hide my embarrassment.
As I walked away, I couldn't help but hear Musashi snickering from within the Stigmata Space. Her voice echoed in my mind, dripping with teasing amusement.
'My, my, isn't this a bit embarrassing for the Great Herrscher of Finality?'
I couldn't help but grimace, the embarrassment only growing. I shot back without thinking, my voice tight with frustration.
"Shut up, Musashi," I muttered, trying to shake off the heat creeping up my neck.
But her laughter only grew louder in my mind, clearly enjoying the rare moment of vulnerability. I could feel her amusement almost radiating from the Stigmata Space, but I refused to give her the satisfaction of reacting any further.
"Sigh Whatever, laugh all you want," I muttered under my breath, trying to ignore Musashi's continued teasing. I pulled out the [Abyss Flower] from my inventory, focusing on it intently. My goal was to analyze its design, the materials it was made from, and the exact workings of its powers.
With a deep breath, I activated the Authority of Truth and let its energy flow through me. As my fingers gripped the spear, the ability kicked in, and I felt a rush of knowledge flood my mind. The intricate structure of the weapon, the materials that composed it, and how each part functioned all became clear in an instant.
Once I absorbed the information, I carefully laid the [Abyss Flower] down on the bed, taking a moment to process everything I had learned.
"I see…" I whispered to myself, my thoughts swirling. "The material used in the [Abyss Flower] is a manmade metal called Soulium. And it was created through advanced nanotechnology, making this weapon on an entirely different level compared to Byakko or Sakuya. What's more, Soulium absorbs any ambient Honkai energy in the surrounding area, making it continuously stronger and more durable the longer it's exposed."
I leaned back, staring at the spear with newfound respect. It wasn't just a weapon; it was a masterpiece, far beyond what I had expected.
I continued to process the information that flooded my mind after analyzing Soulium. The more I understood about its composition, the more impressive it became.
"As for the materials used to create Soulium," I muttered to myself, "it's a combination of Tungsten, Graphene, Platinum, and Gold alloy. I see now. It's made similarly to the alloy Einheri created—Tungsten and Graphene as the core, and then coated with Platinum and Gold Alloy. Just a gram of this stuff would be enough to make a small fortune. And that's not even factoring in the integration of nanotechnology, which only drives up the price even more."
The thought of the weapon's construction, with such rare and valuable materials, added to its already impressive design. It was no longer just a tool for battle—it was a technological marvel that defied all expectations.
[AN : I don't know the specific material that Soulium made since I have search it on web but couldn't find any, so I will have to borrow from another Creator Idea. if these made someone mad, then I'm very sorry.]
After processing the information, I closed my eyes and focused, allowing the intricate details of Soulium's composition to take shape in my mind. The knowledge flowed through me like a blueprint, every element and process clear as day. I visualized the precise ratios of Tungsten and Graphene forming the core, the meticulous coating of Platinum and Gold Alloy, and the integration of advanced Nanotech to bind it all together.
The design wasn't simple, demanding unwavering concentration. I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the complexity, but I didn't waver. Each step required precision—one wrong move, and the material wouldn't achieve its intended strength and durability.
After a few minutes of pure concentration and silence, a small, gleaming gram block of Soulium materialized in the palm of my hand. Its polished surface glowed faintly, reflecting the ambient light in mesmerizing patterns. I took a moment to admire it before speaking.
"Done. Now, let's analyze it to see if it matches the original."
I activated the Authority of Truth again, focusing on the block in my hand. Streams of intricate data flooded into my mind as I scrutinized its composition, molecular structure, and properties. The results confirmed everything.
A disbelief-laden smile crept across my face as I realized the truth. What I held in my hand wasn't just an imitation—it was the first genuine, manmade Soulium.
"Well," I said, my voice tinged with both pride and awe, "it looks like I've done it."
Just as I finished analyzing the Soulium in my hand, Belfast's elegant voice reached me from outside my room.
"Masachika-sama, dinner is ready."
I glanced at the block of Soulium one last time before setting it carefully on my desk. "Ah, alright. I'll be there," I replied, stretching slightly after the intense concentration.
As I stood up and made my way to the door, I cast a final, satisfied look at the Soulium. The culmination of my efforts sat gleaming under the room's light, a testament to the potential of my abilities.
Exiting my room, I made my way to the dining area, the aroma of Belfast's cooking already drawing me in. It was time to unwind and enjoy a well-deserved meal.
=========================
<
After our crushing defeat at the hands of Masachika Kuze, I, along with Kurumi, Shiba, and Takashi, trudged back to the Hero Village, each step weighed down by the lingering pain of the injuries inflicted upon us. The memory of the overwhelming gravitational force he unleashed played over and over in my mind—a stark reminder of the sheer power he wielded, power that rendered us completely helpless.
"Ow, it seems what you said earlier was true, Yuki," Shiba joked, his voice strained as he clutched his side, the pain clearly still gnawing at him.
I glanced at him, a faint scowl forming despite my own exhaustion.
"What are you talking about?"
"About him being on another level. You said it, and he made sure to prove it," Shiba replied with a weak chuckle, though the grimace on his face betrayed how much the effort hurt him.
"Don't push yourself," Kurumi said, her voice soft but laced with concern as she walked alongside him, supporting his weight when he stumbled.
Takashi, limping slightly, added, "That wasn't just power... it was like facing a force of nature. I don't think I've ever felt so insignificant."
I stayed quiet, my thoughts swirling as I focused on the path ahead, replaying the encounter over and over in my mind. The crushing force, the helplessness—it was a lesson I would never forget.
"I told you…" I finally muttered, breaking the silence, my voice low but firm. "He is not someone to be provoked."
Kurumi nodded slightly, her expression somber. "We underestimated him, and we paid the price."
Shiba let out a dry laugh, wincing as he adjusted his stance. "Underestimated? That's putting it lightly. It felt like we were fighting against an entire world bearing down on us."
Takashi sighed heavily, his head lowered. "He wasn't even trying, was he?"
I shook my head, my grip tightening into fists at my sides. "No, he wasn't. Remember what he said?" I continued, my voice hard with the weight of the words. "He said that him using just a fraction of his power is enough to wipe everything—Demons, Gods, and even this world."
A heavy silence fell over the group, each of us absorbing the gravity of those words. Shiba and Takashi exchanged uneasy glances, the magnitude of Masachika's power settling in.
Kurumi exhaled slowly, her face reflecting a mixture of disbelief and understanding. "That's... beyond anything we could have imagined."
"It's true," I muttered, feeling the bitter sting of my own helplessness. "And we barely scratched the surface of his strength. If that's what we're up against, we need to be more careful. Much more careful."
Takashi nodded. "But what can we even do against someone like him?"
"None," I replied flatly, my voice laced with frustration. "The only thing we can do is follow what he said—send the message to the Elders and make sure we don't cross paths with him or provoke him again."
Shiba winced, the pain from his injuries a constant reminder of the harsh reality. "I'll admit, even though I initially wanted to test if what Yuki was saying was true, I honestly thought we had a chance. But after witnessing his power firsthand... there's no way we stand a chance against that."
"We need to focus on the bigger picture," I added, my gaze fixed ahead. "This isn't just about us. It's about the world. If Masachika Kuze is as dangerous as he claims, then we need to tread carefully."
Takashi sighed, rubbing his temples. "Yeah, we messed up... but we're still alive. Let's keep it that way."
With a quiet nod, we continued our journey, the weight of Masachika's warning hanging heavy in the air.
We continued our journey to the village, each step feeling heavier than the last. The atmosphere was thick with more than just the physical pain from our injuries—it was the crushing weight of our failure. Despite the humiliation and defeat, we still carried the message Masachika had entrusted to us. It was the only reason we were spared, and the responsibility to deliver it was now all the more pressing.
As we approached the gates of the Hero Village, the familiar sight of the towering walls brought a fleeting sense of relief. Yet, the task ahead loomed over us: delivering Masachika's message to the Elder. The words he had spoken echoed in our minds, their implications unsettling.
We exchanged wary glances, each of us wondering how the Elder—and the entire village—would react to what we were about to report. This wasn't just a message. It was a warning, and we knew it would change everything.
As the four of us staggered into the village, the bustling streets fell silent, all eyes locking onto us. The shock on their faces was unmistakable as they took in our battered and injured forms.
"Yuki, Kurumi, Shiba, and Takashi! What happened to you?!" someone shouted, panic evident in their voice. "Get a healer here, now!" Another villager quickly darted off, calling for the medics to tend to us.
Despite the pain coursing through my body, I straightened up, determination overriding my exhaustion. "No," I said, my voice steady but urgent. "Before anything else, I need to speak to the Elder."
The villager hesitated, concern written all over their face. "But your injuries—"
"They can wait," I cut them off. "This is more important. There's a threat on the horizon, far greater than anything we've ever faced. Greater than the Demon King."
The weight of my words hung in the air, silencing any objections. The villagers exchanged worried glances, the gravity of the situation settling in. Without wasting another moment, I pressed forward, heading straight to the Elder's quarters, even as my body protested every step. This warning couldn't wait.
Once we arrived at the Elders' quarters, we were immediately ushered into a spacious room where the three Elders of the Japan Branch of the Hero Village awaited us. The atmosphere was heavy, the weight of authority palpable in the air.
The first Elder, a balding man dressed in a blue short-sleeved hoodie and light blue-green shorts, sat at the center. A smoking pipe rested casually in his hand, and his sharp eyes scrutinized us as we entered. This was Atsuta, known for his no-nonsense demeanor and piercing insight.
"What brings you here in such a state?" Atsuta asked, his voice calm but laced with concern as his gaze flicked over our battered forms. "For you to come directly to us, injured and without seeking healing, this must be urgent."
The other two Elders, seated beside Atsuta, remained silent but watchful, their presence no less commanding.
To Atsuta's right sat Fuji, an elderly man whose long black hair and beard flowed like an ink stroke on parchment. Dressed in a light purple kimono, he radiated an air of calm wisdom, his hands resting on his lap in quiet composure. Despite his serene demeanor, his sharp eyes carried the weight of countless battles and decisions.
To Atsuta's left was Kumano, a spectacled man whose exact age was hard to determine—he could be an elderly or a middle-aged man, depending on the light. His dark blue spiky hair pointed backward like a frozen cascade, and a neatly trimmed beard gave him a dignified yet approachable appearance. His robe was a practical dark green, contrasting with the ceremonial attire of the others, and his calculating gaze darted between us as if analyzing every detail of our injuries and demeanor.
Together, the three Elders formed a triad of wisdom, strategy, and pragmatism, and their combined focus now rested heavily upon us.
"Yes, it's urgent," I said, my tone firm despite the weight of exhaustion pulling at me.
The Elders exchanged brief glances before Atsuta leaned forward, the ever-present pipe in his hand pausing mid-air. "Then what is it?" he asked, his voice steady but edged with concern.
"It's the emergence of a dangerous threat," I began, my voice steady yet heavy with the gravity of the situation. "A threat far more dangerous than the Demon King."
A tense silence fell over the room, the words hanging in the air like a storm about to break. Fuji's sharp eyes narrowed slightly, his hands tightening over his lap, while Kumano's gaze intensified behind his glasses, calculating the implications of what I had just said. Atsuta, still holding his pipe, exhaled deeply, smoke curling upward like a prelude to the storm brewing in their minds.
"I see. Then, do you mind telling us what this threat is that's even more dangerous than the Demon King?" Atsuta asked, his voice serious.
With a deep breath, I nodded and shared everything we had learned, from Masachika Kuze's overwhelming power to the gravity-based attack that had decimated us. I told them about the message he had entrusted us with, about his warning of the impending danger and the absolute need to avoid provoking him further. The weight of the information settled in the room as the Elders listened in silence, absorbing the full scope of the threat we now faced.
"I see…" Atsuta said, his expression darkening as the gravity of the situation sank in. He turned to the other two Elders, both of whom now wore equally somber expressions. "So, what do you think our best course of action is, Fuji, Kumano?"
Fuji, the elderly man with long black hair and a kimono, furrowed his brow. "We have no choice but to tread carefully. Provoking someone like Masachika Kuze could lead to catastrophic consequences. We need to find a way to monitor this threat without drawing his ire."
Kumano, the spectacled elder with spiky blue hair, nodded slowly. "I agree. For now, our best option is to increase surveillance on any potential developments, but we must also strengthen our defenses. We can't be caught off guard again."
Atsuta exhaled, his grip tightening on his pipe. "We'll need to prepare for the worst while hoping for the best. No matter what, we cannot afford to make an enemy out of him."
"Alright, is there anything else about this Masachika Kuze that you need to tell us, Yuki Nonaka?" Atsuta asked, his gaze steady as he waited for an answer.
I hesitated for a moment before responding truthfully. "I think we should not monitor him."
Atsuta raised an eyebrow. "And why is that?"
I looked each of the Elders in the eye, choosing my words carefully. "It's because if he knows that we are monitoring him, he would see that as a provocation. We cannot afford to do anything that might make him consider us a threat. His power is far beyond anything we can comprehend, and if we draw his attention for the wrong reasons…" I trailed off, letting the unspoken consequences linger in the air.
The room fell silent as the weight of my words settled in.
"I see…" Atsuta muttered, his voice heavy with realization. "Now I understand why this is far more dangerous than the Demon King. Just a small mistake could be enough to make us an enemy in his eyes."
The other Elders nodded solemnly, the gravity of the situation sinking in. It wasn't just the threat of the Demon King that they had to worry about—it was something far more unpredictable and devastating.
Atsuta's eyes narrowed as a thought struck him. "Yuki Nonaka, Kurumi Nonaka—you both attend the same school as Masachika Kuze, correct?"
Kurumi and I exchanged glances before nodding in unison, confusion flickering across our faces. Atsuta, noticing our response, fell silent, placing a hand on his chin as if deep in thought.
"Yes… yes, this could work," he muttered, his voice trailing off as his gaze shifted somewhere distant.
"What are you scheming, Atsuta?" Fuji asked, his calm demeanor betraying a hint of curiosity.
Snapping back to the present, Atsuta turned to us, his expression firm. "Yuki Nonaka, Kurumi Nonaka—I have a mission for you both."
"A mission?" I echoed, cautious yet intrigued.
"What kind of mission, Elder Atsuta?" Kurumi added, her brows knitting in concern.
Fuji and Kumano exchanged knowing glances, their silence suggesting they had anticipated this turn of events.
Atsuta clasped his hands behind his back, his voice steady. "Your task is straightforward: befriend Masachika Kuze. Learn about his personality—his motives, preferences, and anything else that might help us understand how to approach him."
Kurumi and I exchanged uncertain looks. The weight of his request pressed heavily on my shoulders. "You want us to befriend someone who could destroy our entire world if we misstep? Isn't that... reckless?"
Kurumi nodded in agreement, her voice tinged with unease. "What if we fail? This sounds more dangerous than helpful."
Atsuta sighed, his expression softening but his tone resolute. "I understand your concerns. This is not a request I make lightly. Masachika Kuze's presence—and his power—are unlike anything we've faced. Building a rapport with him, even if only on the surface, could provide invaluable insights. It might allow us to avoid potential conflict or, if we're fortunate, forge a connection strong enough to ensure mutual understanding."
He paused, letting his words settle. "The risk is real, but so is the opportunity. Your proximity to him at school gives us a chance we cannot afford to ignore. The question now is: can I trust you to handle this mission?"
Fuji, observing our unease, spoke next, his tone calm but firm.
"Think of it this way. A connection might help us avoid disaster. If we learn who he is and what drives him, we can minimize any accidental provocations."
Kurumi glanced at me, uncertainty flickering in her eyes. "It's not like we have much choice, do we?" she murmured.
"No, we don't," I replied quietly before turning to Atsuta. "We'll do it. But don't expect this to be easy."
Atsuta smiled faintly, a glimmer of relief softening his stern features. "I don't fully trust anyone with this, but I believe in your ability to handle it with care. Report back regularly, and remember: tread lightly."
He shifted his gaze to Shiba and Takashi, his tone firm once again. "As for you two, your mission remains unchanged. Stay vigilant and proceed as instructed. Is that understood?"
Both Shiba and Takashi straightened, their expressions resolute as they responded in unison. "Understood, Elder Atsuta."
"Good," Atsuta said, his voice steady and commanding. "You are all dismissed."
With that, we left the Elders' quarters and made our way to the healer in the village to tend to our injuries.
=========================
<
After hours of preparing for my journey into Hell, I locked myself in my room, surrounded by an arsenal of Soulium-crafted weapons. Now that I knew how to make them, there was nothing stopping me from going all out. As I worked, I crafted a Soulium speaker, planning to crank up The Only Thing They Fear is You to full volume.
And to my surprise, the Doom series existed in this world. Not only that, but Doom Eternal: The Ancient Gods Part One and Part Two were also here. Naturally, I made the speaker so I could enjoy the music while preparing to face Hell.
Why? Well, if you're stepping into Hell—the Hell from Doom—you'd want to do the same, wouldn't you? There's something about that place, something about the demons that infest it, that fuels a desire to strike terror straight into their bones. And what better way to do that than blasting The Only Thing They Fear is You at full volume, while cutting them down without mercy? It's not just the sound—it's the message. The raw, unrelenting power behind every note would send them trembling, their legs shaking the moment the first riff hits. They won't know what hit them, and they'll regret ever hearing it.
And what's even better is imagining the Doom Slayer alongside me. Every demon would tremble in fear, not just from the music, but from the sheer presence of the one who brought destruction to their very world. The combination of the music's unrelenting power and the Doom Slayer's legendary wrath would be enough to break their spirits before they even had a chance to fight back. They wouldn't just fear the sound—they'd fear their inevitable end.
"Hehehe…"
I chuckled darkly, the anticipation of the demons' impending doom sending a thrill through me. They had no idea what was coming.
I glanced at the time. It was almost here.
[Time Limit: 05]
[Time Limit: 04]
[Time Limit: 03]
[Time Limit: 02]
[Time Limit: 01]
[Time Limit: 00]
Just as the timer hit zero, something completely unexpected happened—something I hadn't seen coming at all.
[Daily Quest has been automatically submitted.]
[Daily Quest has been completed.]
[Calculating the reward…]
"huh?"
I was dumbfounded by this sudden turn of event right now.
=======================
just like in the previous Chapter, i don't know if this one is a little too rush or what, but i guess it up on what the Reader thought of, and also did i portray the Character right because it is kind a Rush, if so then tell me in the Comment.
and as always thank you for reading my Fanfic.