Iruda was a priestess who had already been chosen by a god.
She had received a god's grace from birth.
Quite a few gods coveted Iruda's vessel and she chose and contracted with the gentlest and most communicative god among them.
In other words, she was an experienced professional.
Probably among the prospective priests of this batch, there was no one who knew the presence of a god as well as Iruda.
"...."
In Iruda's view, Cha Isold's drawing had an eerie aspect to it.
'Could it be an evil god's….'
She thought to herself.
'I've never heard that the Black Cape possessed divinity.'
Wasn't it just a common monster?
Iruda, too, had heard the rumors about the Black Cape.
A humanoid monster wrapped in a black cape from head to toe, who draws dungeons worthy of being called 'artworks' and drags bad people into them.
'I did find it strange that for a monster, the damage wasn't that great.'
The citizens chattered, 'Is a new endemic monster appearing?', but with a little thought, one could see that it was a ridiculous idea.
Hadn't the current endemic monsters on Earth gone through a 32-year pacification process?
Compared to that, the Black Cape's time on Earth was short, and the resulting casualties were few.
It was behavior that couldn't be shown by a monster that couldn't contain its hatred for humans.
Because of this, Iruda's parents had once said that there was a possibility it wasn't a monster.
'They said it's a method the Association often uses to prevent confusion. That citizens still lack awareness of monsters, so they are easily fooled even by made-up stories. So even now, quite a lot of truths are hidden.'
If so, she had to consider the possibility that the Black Cape was indeed an evil god.
Compared to monsters who were busy expressing their uncontrollable hatred, beings like evil gods knew how to act cunningly even with any negative image within them.
It meant they had the ability to be called a 'god'.
"…Cha Isold."
"Yeah?"
"Do you like the Black Cape?"
"Uh, he's kind."
"You say that as if you've met him."
"I have met him!"
"...."
Cha Isold's sunshine-like friendliness was causing trouble again.
'I never thought it would even apply to being treated as a monster.'
A beat later, Iruda asked.
"…When, how, and in what way?"
"Did I do something wrong?"
"I think I'll have to hear it to know."
"I just see him sometimes."
"If you see him sometimes, doesn't that mean you encounter him quite often?"
"He's dropped by my house before."
"That… is a truly surprising story."
Iruda nodded her head.
"It would be best not to tell anyone else."
"I'm only telling you, Ruda, because it's you."
"It's because you keep acting like that that I'm trying to keep you by my side."
"Because we're partners!"
"That wasn't exactly what I meant, but, well, I guess it's similar."
Like the light and salt of my harsh life.
'Live just like that for the rest of your life.'
This dirty and cheap world needed sparkly pushovers like Cha Isold.
"You're sensitive to the energy of gods, so you probably know, but I think the Black Cape is a more dangerous being than you think."
"But he was really kind… a very gentle older brother figure."
"I was saying that he might have made you think that way. I'd be happy if the Black Cape is a virtuous being like you think, but, well, the world doesn't turn on wishes alone."
"Ruda, I think you talk in a way that's too difficult."
"I'd appreciate it if you'd say I'm mature. Anyway, meeting or interacting with a being like this without any wariness is an overly careless action, in my opinion."
Iruda looked at Cha Isold's drawing.
"How about you refrain from meeting him as much as possible?"
She knew the talent Cha Isold possessed.
Like Iruda herself, he was suitable for containing a god, and was born with an energy that many divinities would covet.
Whether it was a traditional god or an evil god, they coveted the qualities of a foolish hero like Cha Isold.
"You never know."
Such people were especially often lured by evil gods.
"Is there any basis for the Black Cape being a virtuous being?"
"There isn't."
"That's why I'm telling you to refrain."
If one made a contract with a wicked mystery through a moment of carelessness, that human's life would become more terrible than hell from that moment on.
It was something that could be decided in an instant with just a god's breath and a single glance.
"There's no harm in being careful."
"That's true."
Fortunately, it seemed he wasn't possessed, as Cha Isold obediently affirmed Iruda's words.
"I'll be careful too."
"…Okay, and if you see him again, tell me too."
"Yeah, but do you think the Black Cape is an evil god?"
"The possibility… doesn't seem to be non-existent."
"He was so warm, but that's possible, huh."
"...."
Warm?
'I'd understand if you said he was hot.'
He didn't feel like such a gentle being.
If it was a mystery whose essence could be felt even through such a clumsy drawing, didn't that mean its class was considerable?
'Beings like that are not considerate of humans.'
To be precise, it was closer to being unable to be considerate.
It was no easy task for great mysteries to grasp the inner thoughts of humans to fit into their small vessels.
It became even more difficult as their class grew larger.
Of course, Cha Isold's vessel was large, so he could endure no matter how great a god, but it wasn't that she wasn't worried.
Cha Isold was the pushover of this era, acknowledged by Iruda.
"…No matter what you feel, a human should not completely trust a god. It's not a matter of trust. In the first place, trust proceeds based on a minimum of mutual understanding. A god cannot understand a human, and a human cannot understand a god."
And they shouldn't. If a god and a human could understand each other, in what way could the two be distinguished in this world?
Above all, the creature called a human was a being that was happy when it didn't know many things and couldn't do many things.
Incompetence that befitted one's station enriched life.
"So what I'm saying is that whatever you feel, you shouldn't believe it to be the other's true feelings."
"Then should I not make a contract with an evil god?"
"…Usually… shouldn't you? Especially with a personality like yours…."
There were officially recognized religions of evil gods.
Death, Disease, Fear, Anger, Sadness.
They were cases where their value and raison d'être as generally quiet disasters were recognized by humans.
But that didn't mean evil gods weren't dangerous.
Even traditional gods treated humans not as chess pieces but as mere toys, and it was even more so for those with radical temperaments like evil gods.
"You should really be careful."
"If I make a contract with the Black Cape…."
"Let's think about it more, that seems wise."
"I think you're right, Ruda."
"That's more like my partner."
Fortunately, Cha Isold was not a fool who was pointlessly stubborn.
"I'll burn that drawing for you."
"Wouldn't it hurt if you burn it?"
"Who would be in pain?"
"The Black Cape."
"There are times when I learn a lot from your way of thinking."
"Then I'll burn it, since I drew it."
Cha Isold burned the drawing cleanly.
"But he really didn't seem like a bad older brother."
"Priest Kang Seo-dam said so too, how can you try to judge a god's good and evil?"
"That's also true."
Cha Isold, who had been lying on the bed for a moment, said with a laugh.
"Next time, do you want to meet him together, Ruda?"
"…Okay, let's do that."
Iruda did not refuse.
'If there's one thing I've learned since joining the order, it's that not all evil gods are entirely evil.'
In the end, distinguishing gods was also nothing more than human arrogance.
How could one divide a simply existing disaster and mystery into right and wrong?
In fact, there were times when the behavior of traditional gods was more vile than that of evil gods.
'I shouldn't have prejudices while looking at a narrow world with the mere gaze of a human.'
In the end, the most correct form for a god and a priest was clearly that of a master and their tool.
The master seeks a useful tool, and the tool seeks a master who will be satisfied with its treatment.
As long as they suit each other well, that's all that matters.
So, if the Black Cape really was an evil god, he might surprisingly suit Cha Isold well.
"Next time you see the Black Cape, you have to call me too, Cha Isold."
She was just worried.
"You still don't know much about gods."
"Yeah, that's why I'm learning a lot thanks to you, Ruda."
"...."
I feel my heart growing warm.
"I'll have to keep you by my side."
"I'll do that too."
"Does the Black Cape really give you snacks?"
"Like cookies or chocolate?"
"How interesting."
"Let's ask for snacks next time we see him."
"That would be a good experience too."
Ruda recalled the drawing that still seemed to linger before her eyes.
What on earth would the snack given by that distant and eerie being of essence taste like?
***
"...."
"...."
Jio, holding a bloody knife, muttered.
"I think student Cha Isold called me for a moment."
It seemed like someone else was there, so he didn't particularly go out.
"Ryujon?"
"Wait a moment, Dana. Daddy is still in the middle of butchering."
"Ryujonjonjonjon?"
"Seeing you have such a good appetite, you won't starve to death wherever you go."
An admirable one.
"You are indeed my daughter."
Jio smiled with satisfaction as he skinned the golden sheep.
It was a smile that had a fierce and seasoned aspect to it, unlike Giovanni's.
"But more importantly, why do intruders keep appearing in my cozy sweet home?"
"Kururu?"
"Yes, this time, of all things, a golden sheep appeared. How bewildering it can get."
Currently, Argio was in the middle of butchering a giant sheep while it was hanging from the ceiling.
It wasn't that he went out to hunt it himself; he just went out to the vegetable garden wondering what to eat, and there was another sacrificial lamb.
"Come to think of it, I think I could use that monster patch as a sort of security unit."
It really put any trap to shame.
"The quality of the meat is very good, as if it was killed by piercing its forehead precisely."
"Kkung?"
"A living creature's meat becomes tender when it dies without knowing anything, Honey."
"Kururu."
"Yes, it would be useful for you too to learn how to butcher."
Although Argio had lived like a beast, perhaps because of the etiquette he learned as a child, he sometimes enjoyed his meals while imitating a human.
In that process, his butchering skills naturally improved.
"I can tell that this sheep is definitely from my hometown. This golden wool of the sheep, so smooth it's slippery, and its massive body like an ox that plows a field. Its sharp teeth and two pairs of eyes. Its thick claws…."
It was certain.
"It's a type of sheep that inhabits the Black Forest."
Golden Step Sheep
A carnivore that hunts prey by disguising itself as a gentle herbivore or by bewitching them with its golden light.
Plants stepped on by a Golden Step Sheep turn into gold, and this gold emits a sweet scent that hinders a creature's judgment.
Unlike ordinary gold, its hard teeth can easily cut off its prey's breath.
"Yes, you're diligent today as well."
Jio nodded his head.
"Its appearance, scent, and texture, it has a cute look without a single flaw. But if you are deceived by that gentle appearance or bewitched by the gold this fellow creates, you'll have your throat bitten right away."
"Kururu?"
"Just as you say, it's from experience. They are children who are very good at feigning innocence, you wouldn't know how thick and sharp their teeth are. Thanks to that, I almost died with my neck half-torn, but in the end, I was the winner."
Elixir Recipe: Boiling the bones of a Golden Step Sheep can refine it into a powerful painkiller, or a drug.
The blood inside the horns of a female becomes a potion of painless death, and in the case of a male, it becomes a potion of painful resurrection.
"Oh, yes. I was able to survive just like this."
Jio smiled deeply as he looked at the system.
"As it happens, the one I killed was a male. These fellows' horns aren't as hard as they look, so they break quite easily, and golden blood pools inside. I liked that it glittered, so I drank it, and my dying heart started beating again."
After that, he carried it with him at all times.
"A male's horn is bent like this towards its back, and a female's horn is bent towards the front. Seeing the horn bent roundly towards its back, this one seems to be a male. Right?"
"Kurururururu."
"I'll cut the horn last, so eat as much as you want. You shouldn't rashly drink the blood from a female's horn if you don't have resistance, but there's no big problem drinking a male's horn's blood when you're fine. If you're not in a near-death state, the effect is small."
You can only feel your body heat up a little.
"The condition of the hide is good too."
Once he had completely skinned the sheep, he could see the black flesh inside.
"Hmm…."
"Kurururururururururururur!!"
"Yes, it would be good for you all to have the wool."
The texture of the golden sheep's wool was so ecstatic that it was perfect for bedding, but a whole flock of water birds that coveted jewels, including Honey, had gathered at the glitter of the golden sheep.
"As a father, there's no way I can't give up a single hide for my children."
At those words, the water birds that had been loitering around the butchering workshop cautiously approached and pecked at the golden sheep's hide.
The strength of those tiny beaks was so good that the wool was plucked out of the hide with ease, and the sight of those jewel water birds was truly that of living gold, silver, and treasures.
"As expected of my children, they know how to adorn themselves."
"Ryujon?"
"Yes, my Dana. This daddy will cut out some meat for you soon."
Dana, who had grown a little larger than a typical adult cat, had such fluffy fur that she was a pleasure to hug.
It was ecstatic when such a Dana clung to his leg and leaned her body against him.
When he cut off the sheep's cheek meat, Dana snatched it in her mouth.
"That's right, you must chew it well. The greatest delicacy of this sheep is this very cheek meat. The cheek meat of the golden sheep, which has almost no facial muscles and cannot make expressions, is chewy yet has a very soft texture that is superb."
However, if one ate it hastily, it could get stuck in the throat.
"Doesn't it have a great savory taste?"
"Ae?"
"I am happy that you seem to like it."
What could be more joyous than having one's beloved family like the same thing I like?
Argio, who let Dana savor it enough, soon turned his head again and looked at the black meat of the sheep hanging on the iron hook.
"The bones can be used later when I draw a picture…."
What should he do with all this overflowing meat?
"...."
He muttered.
"…The meat of the golden sheep is quite elastic, so shall I try steaming it?"
All the meat in the world was bound to become delicious if you put in liquor and seasoning and boiled it for a long time.
That's right, Argio wouldn't be outdone in gluttony either.
-x-X-x-
Since ancient times, meat boiled or steamed in alcohol could not be anything but delicious.
"The sharp aroma of the alcohol erases the gamey smell of the meat, and the gentle heat softens its tough texture."
And there was just the right ingredient for it.
"So…."
Candy Trap Tree
A tree with a base swollen like a round candy.
It is monoecious, with its leaves on the outside, but its fruit grows inside the swollen trunk. If the fruit of the Candy Trap Tree, which has a strong sweet and bitter taste, is not removed in time, it begins to rot inside.
Depending on various conditions, this fruit mixes with the tree's sap to become vinegar, juice, or fruit wine.
"Yes, this."
Jio took a small ceramic pot from the basket held in Dana's mouth.
After Dana, who had run an errand to the ice storage, spat out the basket with a 'ptui,' Argio placed a piece of the Golden Step Sheep's flesh in its mouth.
The omnivorous cat that wasn't a picky eater did not refuse even raw meat.
Unlike a typical cat, the Anticat Dana, with its teeth packed in a single row, soundly enjoyed the piece of flesh.
"Mrow?"
"What a good kitty."
It's been growing so much day by day lately, I hope it eats a lot and grows to be as big as a pig. Then I'd have to give it five raspberries on the belly instead of one. Jio was pleased.
"The great thing about this Candy Trap Tree is that the degree of fermentation is different for each tree. Maybe that's why the taste is slightly different too. This one… the tree's aroma is definitely strong."
The unique weightiness of the alcohol that made the tongue tingle upon contact was intense, and the characteristically bitter taste of the plant felt as if it were rolling around in the mouth. Combined with the aroma of the Candy Trap Tree itself, it even gave off a somewhat smoky feeling.
As expected, this alcohol was delicious even when drunk on its own.
So much so that I thought people who enjoyed their drink wouldn't be able to understand using it for cooking at all.
"There wasn't any naturally made alcohol even in the Abilas Rainforest."
"...."
"Honey, would you like to have a taste?"
"Gurgle."
"It's good to see that all my children eat so well. They'll grow up big and strong."
Jio was about to pour the fruit wine into a small dish, but Honey paid no mind and squeezed its way into the narrow opening of the ceramic pot.
As I just watched to see how far it would go, Honey's squishy face popped out with a 'pop' not long after.
"...."
"...."
The water bird, perched lightly on the opening, tilted its head.
"Coo?"
"Oh dear."
"…Coo, coo, coo…."
"It seems it didn't taste good, right?"
"Gurgle."
"They say alcohol is not for everyone. It might have been too soon for a child."
"Coo…."
"Do you want to try enjoying it?"
Argio, who enjoyed alcohol as much as a bloody battle, gladly offered his advice.
"There are several ways to enjoy fruit wine. You can hold it in your mouth and feel its weight and texture, analyze the plant's unique astringency, or appreciate the fragrance the fruit itself holds, or the aroma that follows."
"Gurgle."
"It will be difficult for a young child like you to enjoy alcohol yet. As for me, I've kept alcohol close since I was young because I particularly enjoyed this kind of texture and aroma, but if it really doesn't suit you, there's always the option of using it in cooking. And as it happens, we've hit the jackpot with the perfect alcohol."
Whether it was the choice of a cat with a sensitive sense of smell, or if it had simply brought the most visible one.
Among the fruit wines he had collected whenever he was bored, Dana had brought the one that paired best with meat.
"If it were ordinary alcohol, its aroma and taste would almost completely disappear in the cooking process, but the alcohol from here has a special quality, so that won't happen. The steamed meat I'm making this time will be quite delicious."
It was Jio who had always found it a pity that when he cooked with alcohol, its taste and aroma would almost completely vanish in the process of boiling and stir-frying.
But the things from this forest did not disappear so easily.
"It's what you would call strong in life force, I suppose."
"Gurgle?"
"Yes, just like you."
Jio, who had been kneading his son sitting on his shoulder as if stroking him, finally turned to look at the teddy bear.
"So…."
"...."
"Why is our father keeping such a distance?"
"Groan…."
"Is your new son that unfamiliar to you?"
Jio's hair, which had been a deep red like wine, faded and soon became platinum blond.
"How about now?"
"…Mmph."
"Yes, I am the same person. Nothing is different at all."
"Rumble, rumble, rumble."
The traditional god who once ruled a dimension smiled and clapped.
It wasn't exactly a situation that called for applause, but there was no one here to point that out.
Giovanni smiled, gave his father a hug, and then stood up again.
"Hmm."
His hair turned back to a deep red.
"But if this is the case, I'm worried about the reaction of our mermaid siblings."
"Groan?"
"That's right, it's about time for those children to arrive as well. My, my…."
Argio smiled.
"This will be fun."
It was going to be a very enjoyable meal.
***
"...."
"Our princess has arrived."
"Damn it."
The mermaid princess Aria poked her own two eyes.
"An impurity has been added to my Jio."
Aria whined, shedding red blood from her eyes.
It looked just like a crying child, which made Argio burst out laughing.
He led Aria, who had not come down from the second floor, to the dining table and said playfully.
"Wouldn't calling it an impurity hurt this teacher's feelings so very much?"
"How did the personality of a man who isn't even like Giovanni get in here? Weren't we only gathering 'Jios' of a similar nature?"
"My, my student. My disciple. Why can't you see that in the end, we are all the same Jio."
"I am aware."
Aria, who had already recovered her eyeballs, clicked her tongue and looked at Argio's vivid golden eyes.
They were less reminiscent of a peaceful sea under the sunlight, and more of a cold lump of gold, stained with blood.
Nevertheless, within those eyes was a familiar affection. It was a love that could never be forgotten, never mistaken.
"…That gaze cannot be imitated."
"How honest of you."
"I know that you too are, in the end, my teacher."
That was not a lie.
"And it's not as if I didn't expect this would happen someday."
The 'Jios' of this portrait were all different.
In fact, even just between 'Seo Jio' and 'Giovanni', many things were different.
For one, their ages were different, and though hidden by clothes, their physiques were different too.
The structure and color of their bones were different, and even the expressions they could make and the variety of them were different.
So, it wasn't strange for a new, bright red Jio to be added now.
To that, her esteemed teacher asked.
"In that case?"
"...."
Before sitting at the table, Aria carefully took Giovanni's hand, which had escorted her.
"Jio."
It was a soft voice.
"I wish to have a meal with you."
"…I feel the same way."
Giovanni also gave his usual smile.
"I came up with a pretty decent recipe this time, and I wanted to show it off, you see."
"Then just show off the recipe, why were you making a face like that?"
"It seems you don't like Argio's face. I felt I had to explain…."
"…Haa…."
Aria, who was quietly gazing at the awkwardly smiling Giovanni, let out a small sigh and said.
"You can explain it well enough with words."
"But is there any explanation more certain than showing you?"
"You have a truly shameless side to you."
Only then did Aria sit in the seat Jio had guided her to.
"Is this the new thing you made?"
"It is. The aroma is quite nice, isn't it?"
"I can faintly smell alcohol, it seems like it will be a delicacy."
"I believe it won't be bad."
Jio, who had returned to having black hair, sat opposite her.
As if it were familiar, Honey and Dana climbed onto the table, and the teddy bear containing the sun god also took its seat in its own chair.
And….
"...."
Aria looked around.
"What are those water birds?"
"They are just watching to see if they might get something to take with them."
"Why would they get something to take?"
"I believe it's because of the children who took the golden fur, a byproduct of the sheep, earlier."
"Golden fur?"
"It's the hide produced by the meat that is now placed in front of Aria."
"Aha…."
Aria nodded her head as she looked at the water birds by the window, watching them with sparkling eyes.
"Now there are even golden sheep, all sorts of strange things are happening."
"There were no such beings in our hometown."
"If there had been, we could have diverted the humans' attention to them."
"It was a fur beautiful enough that an ordinary person would not be able to overcome their greed."
"So it would be best not to take it outside. Well, that is also my own extremely personal greed."
The mermaid still could not trust humans.
"I worry because my teacher lacks a sense of caution in strange areas."
"Aria, you have truly grown into a splendid adult."
Jio admired the sight of his disciple taking care of him.
Even while being the black-haired Seo Jio, he naturally wore Giovanni's smile.
It was thanks to being completely synchronized.
"You used to be really prickly and hot-tempered."
"Oh… just how long ago are you trying to talk about?"
But even Aria acknowledged that part.
"I know that I had many shortcomings back then."
Aria, just born into the world, had a sensitive and prickly side.
She suspected everything that approached, found it difficult to acknowledge anyone, and felt annoyance and disgust towards everything that hindered her.
"Compared to those childhood days, I've softened a lot, too."
"To be honest, I think it's not that much different now either."
"Ha, it's only because I'm in front of my teacher that I can be comfortable."
"Such a touching thing to say all of a sudden?"
"It wasn't necessarily said to touch your heart, though."
Aria didn't even look at the meal and just fiddled with the water-filled glass.
"Before whom could I be so honest? I couldn't even be like this in front of my own brother, Iseur, because I was the one who had to lead him."
"...."
"I've become quite seasoned. I've become skilled, and regardless of my likes and dislikes, I've learned to smile in front of any subject. Just as my teacher told me, this was a great help in interacting with others."
She looked at Jio with her pearl-colored eyes.
"Is this a 'growth' that pleases you?"
"It could be, or it could not be. It's also not important whether it pleases me."
"You're still such a vague person."
As Aria feigned a sigh, Jio chuckled softly.
It was a small, gentle laugh directed at his cute student.
"So, are you not planning to eat?"
"Thinking that this is a meal made by some unknown scoundrel, my stomach twists on its own."
"That unknown scoundrel could be your teacher, you know."
"It's because it's definitely my teacher that it becomes even stranger. In just a moment like this…."
It felt really strange.
"...."
But it was just that she wasn't used to it; it wasn't to the point where she wanted to reject it.
"…As I said before, the aroma is good, at least."
"It's thanks to the aroma of the new alcohol I used this time remaining intact."
"The meat is very tender."
"I boiled it once, then grilled it, and then steamed it before adding the sauce."
"I don't know how cooking can be so troublesome."
And it was a dish as delicious as it was troublesome.
"You said you added the sauce separately, so is it a little different from making a stew?"
"It will definitely be different, doesn't it allow you to feel the taste of the meat better?"
"You said it was the flesh of a golden sheep, right? Yes, it's a great delicacy."
The flesh, dark black as if coated in squid ink, cut softly when chewed and yielded its grain obediently when torn.
But its unique bouncy, soft texture added a chewiness, making it enjoyable to eat.
Especially, the aroma coming from the meat itself was very impressive.
The sharp scent that rose up along the tongue was similar to spices like garlic or onion.
The greasy flavor and savoriness of the meat from its juices were beyond words.
"Strangely, when I'm with my teacher, I feel like I've become a gourmet without any intention to."
"I will take that as a compliment."
"It makes me think about the food while I eat."
"So it was a compliment after all."
"There's no one like you, Jio, when it comes to thinking as you please."
The sauce was quite good too.
"My tongue is a little tingly."
"I didn't add any spicy spices, but it's probably because the alcohol I used this time was strong."
"Doesn't all the alcohol usually evaporate during the cooking process?"
"The alcohol itself is mostly gone, but wouldn't it be the effect of the aroma itself remaining intact."
"To be this strong with just the aroma, I can't understand it."
"Mermaids are especially bad with strong stimuli, after all."
"No…."
Aria muttered inwardly.
'Isn't it a miracle in itself that someone of my level can feel it like this.'
Aria had accumulated power to the point of being close to an evil god.
There was no way that Aria, who had 'grown' over a long period of time, would be the same as an ordinary mermaid.
And yet, to be able to enjoy Jio's cooking as if she had become an ordinary person like this.
'Did he vary the cooking to match my class?'
Or.
'Can just anyone enjoy Jio's cooking as he intends?'
Aria thought it was probably the latter. Hadn't Jio made even the sun god, who had no appetite at all, wait for his cooking? It was truly a strangely amazing ability.
He had done so simply because he wanted to share his food with everyone.
Regardless of whether the other party was a monster that had surpassed the limits of a mermaid, or a teddy bear that was once tasteless because it was a god.
"...."
Aria asked.
"…Is there no bread to go with it?"
"I have some that I made in advance, would you like some?"
"The sauce is quite delicious, so I'd like to dip some in it."
"Then I will bake it for you right away."
Jio got up from his seat and put the bread he had already baked into the stone oven.
A golden water bird, as if it also wanted something to eat, flew and sat on the black cape's shoulder.
The water birds that had been sitting by the window also drew near, fluttering and splashing, and a large human hand stroked its small children.
"Yes, the baking aroma is nice, isn't it?"
"Gurgle."
"Let's wait just a little longer."
The sound of the firewood crackling as it burned, the aroma of the already-baked bread becoming even more golden-brown, the warmth spreading from it, and the clattering sound of the teddy bear's utensils….
"...."
Aria perceived all of it.
-x-X-x-
It was a tranquil world.
"...."
Wasn't it?
My esteemed teacher, who had died so horribly, was alive and breathing just fine, and he would always prepare a meal while waiting for Aria to arrive.
Soothing her with the same voice as back then, laughing, chatting, and enjoying himself with his new children….
She had no intention of diminishing this terrible peace.
"…Giovanni."
No matter what happened from now on, Aria decided to cherish this tranquility.
"My teacher."
"Yes, Aria."
When the short meal ended, Jio returned to his blunt face.
With a calm face that looked as if it had never once smiled, but filled with familiar affection, her esteemed teacher asked.
"Do you need dessert?"
"Is that a dessert filled with lots of sugar?"
"That's right, it's very sweet."
"The cake I had last time was really delicious."
"As it happens, what Aria wants is right here."
"What I wanted was always here."
"How clever of you."
He brought a small cake.
"Is this what you wanted?"
"Exactly. You gave this to the human named Yu Seong-un who visited here before, didn't you?"
"That's right, and in return, I was hit with a Bungeoppang."
"That's quite a humble price…."
The 'price' that came out of that mouth was like children playing house.
"For such a delicious cake."
The thing, resembling a small round cake, had a very light texture.
First, the cake sheet was like that.
A fragile crispness like chewing a well-baked meringue cookie, and a soft texture that melted right in.
Its surface was smooth, and there was sweet sugar powder sprinkled on top.
It was divided into four layers. Vanilla cream, green tea cream, and mascarpone cream cheese.
Although he said it was full of sugar, perhaps thanks to the exquisite harmony, it felt lighter than expected.
"I never knew my teacher had a talent for confectionery."
"My baking skills aren't bad either, so perhaps that has something to do with it."
"That could be."
There was a definite crispness when chewed, yet its weight and texture were so light that I didn't even realize it was going down my throat.
It was a rapturous texture that no human could ever create.
"Just because the taste feels human doesn't mean you can hide the sense of disharmony."
"I don't know what you're trying to say. Do you have any advice for me?"
"I was just saying. I couldn't figure out what on earth my teacher wants to become…."
The taste was quite familiar.
When she spied on Earth, this kind of sweet and soft cream was highly popular.
Perhaps 'Seo Jio' wanted to imitate it.
Nevertheless, Aria, an excellent analyst, knew what an eccentric act this was.
She knew it from just one bite of the cake.
A human who could imitate this texture would not emerge so easily.
"I respect you, teacher."
Jio was brilliant, but he was not one to be tied down by his surroundings.
He was a person who could even bestow his own death as a gentle mercy.
Ah, what an arrogant one.
"You can even make a cake like this, can't you?"
"I feel embarrassed to be receiving such excessive praise for just a cake."
"A dessert this delicious deserves even more praise."
"Would you like a cup of tea?"
"Was I not drinking tea already?"
It was so delicious that I forgot for a moment.
"Will you give me a cup of what you are drinking now, teacher?"
"I will."
A fragile, clear sound, like gems carved into beads colliding.
The sunlight coming through the window shattered in the light blue-green brewed tea.
It seemed as if what was inside should have been gems, not liquid.
Nevertheless, what Aria received was tea of a moderate temperature.
"...."
Drinking it, she looks around.
"…I cherish this place."
"I can tell even without you saying it directly."
"But if you ask if I like it, I'm not so sure."
"I know that too."
"…Yes, Giovanni…."
Aria smiled, as if wincing.
"This must be sad."
It was different from anger.
"And this must be what it means to miss someone."
"...."
"And it's the emotion of regret."
In this tranquil place, Aria felt such emotions.
"I wondered why I feel such emotions in this peaceful and silent world. A space where I can meet my teacher again at any time, a cabin filled with sweet honey and fruits, where the chirping of beautiful birds can be heard. A wooden house filled with warm air."
It's nothing but good.
"Whenever I enter this place, my stomach churns."
Aria asked.
"Why does this place feel like a tomb to me?"
"I am alive."
"It feels like you'll just go off somewhere again."
"I will continue to be here."
"Speaking of such eternity is so unfamiliar."
Giovanni never had the word 'eternity' on his lips.
That was proof that we had walked a very long road.
The person before her eyes had already died once, and would experience countless more deaths in the future and he would reveal even more changes to the people he loved.
That's how it would be.
"A human who misses the dead is a failure. They will be buried in the past for their entire life as they can never bring them back, and one who defies fate can no longer be called human, thus becoming a monster."
The current situation was like that.
"I have become that monster."
"You don't have to think so complicatedly."
"Jio, what about you?"
Are you human?
"Can you consider yourself human?"
"Let me ask you back, how could I not be?"
"Well."
Aria couldn't bring herself to say 'no' to his face.
"You are always right."
Drinking tea with me before my eyes is not human.
It could perhaps become human, but its essence itself could not be called human.
In the end, the conclusion is that Aria's only human teacher, despite being here, is not the same as he was.
Giovanni is living while dead.
'Preserved.'
Like a faded portrait that depicted the most beautiful time.
'How many more of the most beautiful times will be preserved in the future.'
She feels a sense of faintness at that short and colorful life and the eternal changes.
Jio would not be stagnant for a single moment, and Aria would always be busy trying to keep up with his changes.
Even though they were drinking the same tea together, she felt upset. It felt too distant.
"…Longing is such a peculiar emotion."
Aria continues.
"It seems good, but it turns your insides into mud."
"It's because you have no immunity to emotions."
"Have humans gotten used to such feelings?"
"Everyone lives with a sense of longing, regardless of who or what they think of."
"It's horrifying to think I'll live like this for the rest of my life."
"It's not as horrifying as you think."
Jio's voice was quiet as if it had no sound.
"Because we long for things, we can have memories."
"Do you call this a memory too?"
If so, then Aria right now.
"I am now lost in that memory."
It felt like she would suffocate.
It felt like being a fish that had entered freshwater instead of the sea.
It felt like being a human trapped in a world full of nitrogen instead of oxygen.
It felt both painful and peaceful. It was a really strange feeling.
"How should I define this peace?"
"Wouldn't it be fine to just enjoy it without overthinking?"
"It sounds like a devil's temptation, a proposal more cunning than any devil I've seen."
"Oh, you've encountered devils."
As if to soothe his student, warmth crept into the blunt voice.
He asks with a gentle voice and smile.
"What were they like?"
"Well, they were of a much lower quality than you."
In various aspects.
"To be honest, I don't have the confidence to accept this peace. I think it's a lie even while knowing it's all true. It's like considering a mirage to be real even while knowing it exists."
"Aria, your problem is that you think too much."
"The way I see it, it's you, teacher, who isn't thinking deeply. I don't know what kind of disposition allows you to confidently declare yourself a human without a moment's hesitation."
"Is there a reason why my changes would make me not human?"
"There are many reasons. Many indeed, but you, teacher, would probably not consider them valid reasons. I should say that stubbornness of yours is really dependable…"
Or should she say ominous.
"You can achieve everything you desire."
But compared to that ominousness, Jio was a being she could not control, could not possess.
Even if the current, longed-for peace were to suddenly disappear one day, Aria could accept it.
And on that day, she would learn despair.
It was an inevitable fate, as the long path they had already walked proved.
"I have already learned fear."
"How did that happen?"
"Because you were not in my dungeon."
When I lived as a monster, thinking you were gone, thinking you had already left my hands, I could at least laugh.
But having my esteemed teacher, who I can't even grasp, hovering by my side with a smiling face was so frightening.
Once was enough.
She could not lose him a second time.
There was no way she could endure such a loss again.
"The person named Giovanni is like that. He comes up with ideas an ordinary human couldn't even imagine, and on top of that, he gives so much as to tear off a piece of himself, he understands even insignificant creatures, and his patience is beyond imagination."
He was a person who tried anything.
"But now, you don't just stop at trying, you have the power to actually do it. I'm not sure if you were always like that or became this way later… but nevertheless, you are, in the end, my teacher."
"...."
"You will change countless times. Someday, you will disappear. You could die before me, or you could live longer than me. It will be so if you wish it, and even if you don't, you will simply enjoy fate."
"...."
"I accept that. But Jio, you know, don't you? We learned hatred from your death and killed and harmed so many humans. We endured those long years. But what is this."
Aria looked at Giovanni.
"You, to reassure us for those long years, are too…."
It soon turned black.
"...."
"...."
And then it turned red.
"…too capricious."
"You understand me well."
"That makes me very anxious."
It was too long a time.
"I have lived through that long time, enduring with hatred and anger, yet the teacher I unexpectedly met again does not indulge that greed. If I had my way, I would put you in my dungeon, admire you without ever taking my eyes off you, and spend all of that flowing time together."
At the mermaid's greed, Argio smiled cunningly.
"That would be no fun at all."
"I knew you wouldn't be caught easily, and I knew I would fail if I tried, so I didn't."
It was because Jio had not forgiven them, and therefore would not accept them.
That could not hurt Aria. She thinks it's a natural and obvious thing.
But because of it, the mermaids could not fully possess their esteemed teacher.
"Who knows in what way you might disappear in the meantime."
"So that is what makes you anxious."
"It is, in the sense that the only thing I acknowledge and love is my only variable."
Aria smiled, much like him.
"How can I trust this peace?"
"I believe that is the homework left for you."
"Indeed, a statement worthy of you."
The fact that a mere human was invited to this place, the future where Jio's colors would change countless times, and the mermaids' immense responsibility that couldn't be repaid even after tens of thousands of years.
All of this was, in the end, no different from homework Aria had to handle.
Homework to believe in the current peace.
"It would have been better if I were a stupid human."
Then I would have believed.
"Isn't that right?"
"But that's not a wise choice."
"…Is that so?"
"Continue to ponder and doubt."
The golden eyes curved with affection.
"That will be your proof."
"As expected, you are…."
Aria smiled weakly.
"…truly my teacher."
A human who had no limits in strange areas, who always spoke of a realistic future, and who was busy teaching something.
Remembering that the one before her eyes was the same person who had been the only one to love us mermaids….
"I love you."
"I do too."
Only then did she feel at ease.
We are in our daily lives again today.
***
Giovanni always said, 'learn as many emotions as you can while I am here.'
"That will become a token of your life as a mermaid."
"A token?"
"Emotion is a token of memories, of learning, of all those recollections."
He said that it would make you, a mermaid, grow.
"Your current emotions will show you the path forward."
"Jio, can't you just show me?"
"I, who am not completely the same as Aria, can be erased and disappear from that life at any time."
"I won't let you be erased or disappear."
"In the end, even now, we are drawing different futures, are we not."
"...."
"…Whether I am by your side or not."
Jio always said.
"I hope you use that token to understand many more things."
But before she could understand those many things, Giovanni died.
Death took away far more than she thought.
It meant that the person who would smile brightly when she woke up in the morning was gone, it meant the person who would urge her to eat at a set time for no reason had disappeared, and it meant that no one would pull the blanket up to her neck even when night fell.
Each and every one was so ordinary, yet so large. So small, yet so many.
"...."
We had always learned about death.
So today, too, was a day no different from any other.
-x-X-x-
The gallery at 4 AM.
"Jio."
Yu Seong-un called out to the portrait as usual.
"Are you awake?"
"Yes, I am awake."
"I came because you sent a letter."
"...."
The portrait, its eyes covered in black paint, looked at Yu Seong-un.
The bloodless lower part of its face uttered words.
"Were you able to read it this time?"
"Nothing's really changed, it's the same as the ones you sent before."
"I see."
It wasn't a tone of disappointment.
As usual, the portrait's tone was blunt and empty.
The calm tone was certainly pleasant to hear, but its weight was not light, making it difficult to ruminate on for long.
Yu Seong-un let the voice, from which he could read no meaning at all, wash over him.
Then the portrait spoke to him again.
"I can show you something interesting."
"If you mean something interesting…."
Yu Seong-un nodded as if he had guessed.
"Don't tell me you succeeded in finding another 'Jio'?"
He had said that the reason he was able to imitate humans so well despite possessing a great status was the task of awakening another 'Jio', his old personality.
That it was easy to act as a human until the human 'Jio' was stained by the portrait.
At Yu Seong-un's question, Jio affirmed and added an explanation.
"I drew it, but I did not find it."
"So that's a painting in the end? Then is there any difference from a portrait?"
"To be precise, it is asking a favor of the Jio beyond the painting."
"A favor…."
That was a rather moderate expression.
"...."
Yu Seong-un subtly composed himself.
He finished preparing to face a catastrophe.
"So, what kind of person is this 'Jio'?"
"He is one of the evil gods."
"Aha, so does that mean the time has come for the Earth to be destroyed?"
"I will not destroy the Earth."
"Thanks, but that's a little scary."
Of all things, an evil god.
"…Wait, if he's an evil god… isn't he not human in the first place? Is it okay to receive help from a 'Jio' like that?"
"It is possible because he, too, is ultimately human."
"How truly merciful. I always feel this, but your standards for what constitutes a human seem really loose."
I knew it from the moment you preached 'you are all human too' while looking at those terrifying mermaids.
'The way he considers himself an ordinary human too….'
In fact, that seemed like a kind of joke or an act, but at any rate, there was no falsehood in him 'believing' so.
It seemed that Jio's standards for treating someone as human were quite… inclusive.
"So, did you call me to tell me that story?"
Yu Seong-un still couldn't decipher Jio's letters, but he knew that he had something to tell him.
That was why he had visited at dawn on the day he received the letter.
"Or is there something you want to consult with me about?"
"Rather than that…."
Clatter―.
The ringed hand of the portrait grasped the frame.
"...."
That 'Jio,' covered in black paint, popped out as if to embrace Yu Seong-un….
"―Peek-a-boo."
It was a prank.
"...."
"...."
"Why is there no reaction?"
"…Uh…."
As Yu Seong-un flinched back, pale bare feet landed in that space.
At the sight of 'Jio,' who had now completely emerged from the portrait, Yu Seong-un clutched his heart.
"…Oh, right."
"What do you mean by that?"
"That was scary for a moment."
"I did not intend to frighten you."
"I see."
I really thought I was going to die this time.
'The eyes….'
The moment he met those downward-looking golden eyes head-on, his mind went blank.
Yu Seong-un had previously guessed that 'Jio's Portrait' was the 'eye' of the Source for gathering human databases.
He had tried even harder not to make eye contact since then, but seeing it head-on like this took his breath away. It was truly….
"...."
Yu Seong-un took a short, deep breath and returned to his usual expression.
"You're the Jio I know, right?"
"I still remember and affirm you, Mr. Yu Seong-un."
"Um…."
It was certainly a favorable reaction, just like before.
"…It seems like a lot has changed. Just like with Giovanni, you really change from one extreme to the other."
From the blunt 'Seo Jio' who showed no expression, he became the priest 'Giovanni,' characterized by a bright and gentle smile.
'And now he's become an evil god who knows how to smile with a pitch-black heart….'
I thought all Jios basically knew how to maintain their goodness, but seeing him become an evil god of all things, can that level of disposition change?
'Then again, Jio itself couldn't be called good by human standards. His preference for what is good and polite is likely fixed, but his characteristic politeness or his favor towards humans could change.'
Even after organizing his thoughts, he still lacked information.
Unlike the previous 'Jios' who were generally gentle, this one was flashy from his appearance to his personality at first glance.
The first of those changes would be the colors.
"Is that this 'Jio's' color?"
"Isn't it quite flashy?"
"It certainly is really flashy."
His eyes were a golden color that felt cool, and his hair was a deep red like aged blood.
Yu Seong-un could immediately recall a similar color palette.
It seemed Jio was thinking the same.
"The Guildmaster here seemed to have a similar color to me."
"Ah, right. He also has red hair and golden eyes."
They weren't exactly the same color.
Bisabeol's hair and eyes had a slightly higher saturation than Jio's now.
His hair resembled freshly drawn blood, and his eyes were closer to lemon yellow than gold.
Still, even so.
"They are quite similar."
So much so that at a glance, one might think they were relatives.
'Will he be offended if I say this much?'
Since the other party had introduced himself as an evil god, he had to be careful about what needed to be cared about.
If introduced as being like a mere human, a god might feel insulted.
It was best to avoid that.
But Jio's reaction was quite cool.
"Are we similar enough to be considered family?"
"…Perhaps so."
"Is he a good fighter?"
"N-n-n-no, absolutely not. A single tap would send him flying."
"Oh dear."
"...."
Yu Seong-un inwardly bit his tongue.
'Is he this type of evil god?'
Among evil gods, there were schemers with twisted personalities, and there were berserkers who just coolly swept away schemes and everything else.
It seemed this Jio was closer to the latter, if he had to say.
"…Have you come to enjoy fighting, then?"
"If it's not an opponent worthy of it, I won't go on a rampage either, so don't you worry, friend."
"O-kay…."
First of all, since he called him 'friend,' it seemed the favorability he had built up until now hadn't been deleted.
'So he thought of me as a friend all this time.'
I'm grateful, but it's burdensome beyond that.
Being considered a friend by a being who is the eye of the Source is a great honor as a Gardener, but it's also a position where it feels like I'll never die as a human.
'Could it be that I might not be able to live out my natural lifespan?'
Anyway, what's good is good.
It was obvious that gaining favor was better than earning enmity.
"...."
Yu Seong-un, scratching his neck, spoke again.
"…You can speak comfortably, you know?"
"A good human like you, Mr. Yu Seong-un, deserves such treatment."
"It's the same formal language, but the feeling is definitely different."
The black Jio's formal language was eerily blunt, and Giovanni's was gentle and polite.
The formal language uttered by the flashy Jio before him was tinged with a sharp laughter, making it sound a bit sarcastic.
'And yet, the reason he doesn't feel like a common thug is because of that dignity.'
Yu Seong-un scanned the inside of the Black Cape this time.
He knew that with a rare probability, the attire would change each time 'Jio' changed.
The black cape that covered him from head to toe made its interior completely invisible, but if he himself revealed it, the inside could be seen.
When he was Seo Jio, Jio wore a black suit, and when he was Giovanni, he wore white priestly robes.
'Details like hairstyle or fashion seem to change depending on Jio's mood at the time, but this one is definitely noticeable.'
This Jio's attire was filled with bones and jewels.
"...."
How am I supposed to handle this if he goes out like that?
'Explaining all of that as Artifacts is a bit much, the atmosphere is too unusual.'
As if noticing Yu Seong-un's thoughts, Jio smiled.
"Do you think I would stroll among people like this?"
"If not, that's a real relief."
"If need be, I shall wear a suit, as it is neat."
"Then your current attire is?"
"Is it not for the purpose of showing it to you, Mr. Yu Seong-un?"
His way of speaking really changes in a flash.
'A very capricious type….'
He had to be careful.
Even though he said that, he might walk among people in that attire.
These days, there are so many hunters with unusual concepts that I wonder if it would be a big problem, but since he introduced himself as an evil god, a complacent mindset was a foolish thing.
"…Sooo…."
Feeling a little confused, Yu Seong-un spoke first.
"I'm starting to get the picture."
"Is that so?"
"Is there something you want from me?"
"There was something I wanted to ask."
"Something you want to ask? Is that the main point?"
"That's right."
Jio asked.
"Am I still scary now?"
"...."
It was a surprising thing.
'…Is the current Jio also being considerate of humans?'
Although the Black Cape didn't treat evil beings as human, Jio basically showed an impartial affection for humans.
It was so impartial that it sometimes felt like complete indifference, but I was not unaware that this was the portrait's consideration.
'But that was possible even for an evil god, Jio?'
I had been prepared for a great many things since he introduced himself as an evil god. What should I say, it felt like seeing something truly unfamiliar.
"...."
Yu Seong-un, who had slowly scanned the other person, shook his head.
"No, you're not scary."
"Really?"
"To put it more accurately, I do feel a bit overwhelmed by your presence itself."
Yu Seong-un smiled nonchalantly.
"But this can't be helped. You're considerably taller than other humans, and your colors are intense right now, and your gaze itself is intimidating. Your expression… has a fierce side to it too."
But.
"You still seem human."
Of course, Jio's eyes were still hard to look at directly.
But the reason Yu Seong-un was able to pull away so quickly even after encountering them head-on from such a close distance was probably because the current Jio was definitely staying within the bounds of a human's status.
At Yu Seong-un's calm reaction, Jio's lips twisted ambiguously. It looked like he was probably smiling.
"That feels very strange to hear."
"Is it that much?"
"It's just that hearing I look like a human is unfamiliar."
"Is that… a change caused by your current self?"
"Yes."
Jio, who seemed to be thinking about something for a moment, curved his eyes.
"Everyone called me Argio, but you, Mr. Yu Seong-un, can call me whatever you wish."
"Argio? Is that the word that refers to you?"
"In the old language of my homeland, it means a cruel beast. It's a kind of derogatory term."
"…Then I'll just call you as I usually do."
There was no need to praise an evil god, who was already bound to be cruel, by calling him 'cruel'.
'And it feels wrong to call someone who isn't showing any malice a derogatory term.'
As if he knew Yu Seong-un's thoughts, Jio drew a slight smile.
Only then did Yu Seong-un realize that Jio's eyes were sharper than he thought.
'Smiling like that, he definitely looks more like the Guildmaster.'
Usually, they were calmly settled, so I didn't think of them as sharp eyes.
Since it was too random of a topic, he didn't say anything further, and Jio opened his mouth.
"That is all for today's business."
"Did you check if there were any side effects from becoming one with another Jio?"
"Something like that, and it was satisfactory."
He pulled the hood of his cape down deep, covering his entire body with the dark black cape. Only the pale bare feet above which a black suit reappeared were visible.
From within the pitch-black shadow of the cape, Jio spoke.
"Thank you for responding to the letter."
"...."
That was definitely 'Seo Jio.'
"…Wow…."
This is going to get harder to adapt to as time goes on.
'The fact that I find this kind of thing eerie must mean I'm still human.'
The Garden's erosion was getting stronger by the day, but it seemed that making contact with the Source didn't have much of an effect.
At the complete replacement of 'Jio' in an instant, Yu Seong-un felt a chill and smiled.
To this portrait, 'Jio' was a kind of clothing.
'It must be an attempt to find clothes that fit the situation and blend in with humans without a sense of disharmony.'
Yu Seong-un understood that attempt and consideration.
In its own way, 'Jio's Portrait' was trying to get along with others by using numerous memories and personalities.
'Then does calling me this time mean it's like showing off new clothes to family or friends to see if they look good?'
It was a little funny.
This behavior of 'Jio's Portrait' had a somewhat cute side to it, like when one sees a newly born, immature, and passionate Source being.
"I'll gratefully accept your thanks."
"I will be able to be of help to you on another day."
"That's even more appreciated."
As a Gardener, the help of the Source could be a lifeline.
'There's no such case in history, so I don't know in what way it will be helpful.'
The portrait caught Yu Seong-un as he was about to leave.
"If you are tired, would you like to stay a night at my cabin?"
"Um…."
It was true that he was tired.
"…It's not that I'm not interested."
"Yes."
"I'd just prefer to visit in a more decent state."
"I see."
"Would you be displeased if I postponed the consideration you've shown me to the next opportunity?"
"I am always waiting for Mr. Yu Seong-un's visit."
"That's a really wonderful invitation."
It was an invitation just like a ghost luring a lonely and weary traveler.
"I like things like that."
Yu Seong-un's blue-gray eyes curved deeply as he smiled.
***
At that time, in an abandoned building in the outer district.
"...."
There, amidst the ash and soot, a man who had lost everything sat quietly.
In his grasp was the mark of an evil god called the Sankalut.
Unlike most traditional gods, with whom contact and interaction themselves are difficult, most evil gods were not difficult to summon, and the probability of them responding was high.
This was because evil gods actively sought out their corrupted followers.
"Or, they may intentionally plunge a human they fancy into misfortune to make them their follower. There are humans who are loved by an evil god because they are corrupt, and there are also humans who are corrupted because they are loved."
For any god that watches over humans, a method to call upon them exists.
For that reason, in the numerous dungeons created from ruined dimensions, there were many cases where intellectuals with wrongful intentions brought disaster upon themselves.
"The most common case is for the purpose of revenge."
"Revenge?"
"Rarely, there are also those who summoned an evil god simply desiring destruction."
In the classroom for prospective priests, Kang Seo-dam continued his explanation.
"Do you all know about the Seven Deadly Sins?"
"Pride, greed, envy, wrath, lust, gluttony, and sloth."
"Good, Sister Iruda. This is a concept that existed even before the Great Catastrophe, when people were not close to the gods."
Kang Seo-dam nodded.
"After the Great Catastrophe, there were many changes in perception on Earth. Nevertheless, if that concept is still sound to this day, you can consider it to be because it has shown that much value."
In the religious world, the Seven Deadly Sins were such a case.
"A prideful person does not try to learn. A greedy person does not share. An envious person loses the opportunity to grow, and a wrathful person does not endure. Lust easily blinds a person's eyes, gluttony makes one forget how to respect, and sloth becomes a matter of letting one's own value rot."
Kang Seo-dam looked around at the students.
"Humans are social creatures that cannot survive alone. Especially the humans of Earth before the Great Catastrophe were quite weak compared to other creatures on the planet."
"...."
"Nevertheless, the Seven Deadly Sins still existed back then. Is there any brother who can guess why these were considered sins, regardless of being before or after the Great Catastrophe?"
The girl from Lowtail, Iruda, raised her hand.
"I can explain."
"Please explain in front of the brothers."
"As you mentioned, it is because humans are weak social creatures and must form communities, and for sustainable survival and development, they must not commit the sins mentioned above."
"That was an exemplary answer."
Kang Seo-dam scanned his surroundings again.
"Is there anyone who understood Sister Iruda's words?"
"Me."
"Yes, Brother Cha Isold. I would like to hear your view."
"I think it means we have to live kindly because if we're selfish, we can't all live together."
"That was a precise summary."
He expressed his affirmation.
"Just as good and evil are, the world is wide and humans are diverse, so if someone acts according to their own greed, someone else is bound to become unhappy. This is because resources are limited and not everyone has the same personality and desires."
This was the method that humans, as social animals, chose for survival.
"There may be a brother who wants to say this. In a critical situation when dungeons are overflowing and monsters are pouring out, is it truly right to care for others instead of preserving oneself."
Kang Seo-dam shook his head.
"This is not about judging the good and evil of human actions. Humans inherently exist, think, and act for themselves, so such human behavior can easily face evil. This is because choices that can satisfy everyone are extremely rare, so in the end, someone will even criticize your good deeds."
Therefore, what was important was not the good and evil of humans.
"If I had faced the Great Catastrophe, I would have said this. Everyone, try to live well on your own."
"Uh… uh oh…."
"Does it sound strange? But a priest is also a human, and humans exist for themselves."
"...."
"If even preserving oneself is called evil, then humans should not have existed in the first place."
I will not brand even selfishness in the face of a life-threatening situation as a sin.
However, the act of giving when one has the means adds strength to the continuation of humanity.
So, then.
"Good and evil are not important in the theme of this class."
They had to see the world.
"Look at the flow of the world."
They had to broaden their horizons.
"Is this the Great Catastrophe? Are you currently at a scene where monsters are rampant? The world is gradually establishing a system and running towards peace, and as that speed increases, the number of people who receive the grace of life also rises on average."
"...."
"The most important thing for priests who serve traditional gods is the balance of the dimension. It is because this dimension, this world, this country must be maintained so that they and we can enjoy the grace of life for as long as possible. Therefore, do not be foolish, but contemplate good and evil."
Kang Seo-dam stroked his chin.
"I know how absurd it must sound to be told to do good in a world like this. But if you wish to live and enjoy more, if you are one of those ordinary people, it would be best to become a faithful servant to the words of a god."
He looked around at the students again.
"Then another question will arise. What if one becomes a priest of an evil god who loves destruction and imbalance, not a traditional god? What if one is not an ordinary person who desires the grace of death instead of the grace of life, and wishes to enjoy daily life by chatting with friends and having delicious meals… is it okay not to be a faithful servant."
Kang Seo-dam nodded.
"Thus, we return to our initial topic."
He took in the students with his eyes.
"In the dungeons of numerous ruined dimensions, hunters see the consequences of disasters brought upon by intellectuals with wrongful intentions. This is because quite a few gods can be summoned with very light qualifications and simple knowledge."
Even a very weak scholar can summon an evil god.
If he only knows what the evil god he wishes to summon wants and the procedure, no, even if he only desires a disaster that will grant his own corrupt wish, the evil god will answer him.
"Furthermore, some evil gods even agree to a deal with a human through very simple materials and rituals. Someone succeeded in a summoning by offering a mere rat as a sacrifice, someone summoned one by drawing a simple picture, and someone brought forth a disaster by reciting only a short prayer."
Even to a human's faint groan, an evil god responds quickly.
"This is because hatred and disillusionment reach a god much faster than gratitude and praise."
An evil god speaks to a human when they are at their weakest, and disaster strikes in an instant.
"Because traditional gods were born within providence, many of them are inexperienced in dealing with such negative prayers. Most gods are not even aware of an insignificant individual like a human, so how could they understand their wishes, and would that understanding even be proper? The probability of that is low."
"Then how can we receive a god's response?"
"The easiest way, as I mentioned earlier, is to summon an evil god. Evil gods who wish to use human's negative emotions or blatant greed are mostly experienced, and thanks to that, they are skilled in dealing with humans."
Kang Seo-dam said, pointing to the numerous materials displayed on the screen.
"The fact that most gods who enjoy amusement are evil gods can also be explained by that reason."
Evil gods, who have the most experience dealing directly with humans, were likely to be skilled at understanding and imitating such humans.
That is why they can respond instantly to a human's call.
Kang Seo-dam clicked his tongue.
"First and foremost, in Korea, all evil gods are targeted for subjugation, with the exception of some recognized by the government and the religious circles."
"Ah, so that's why evil gods are monsters…."
"That is correct. Therefore, even if you see an evil god that seems very gentle and benevolent, you should not easily make a contract or rely on them. They are very well-versed in humans."
They especially enjoyed corrupting young priests like these.
"Quite a lot of evil gods enjoy corrupting humans."
"Why is that?"
"I am speculating that it's literally because it's fun."
"…Fu, fun…."
"Do not forget that to a god, a human is, at best, a toy."
Even if the grace they bestow could be objectively called 'love' in human eyes, that 'love' could ultimately be just a single glance from a god.
The standards of gods and humans were strictly different.
"No matter how much they cherish and love you, they will not cry like family when you die. They will not build your tombstone, nor will they prepare a warm meal for you when you are struggling and sad. You can only hope for that from another human."
Kang Seo-dam looked at the slightly fed-up expressions of the brothers.
"That being said, you do not need to be afraid of serving a god."
"But then, aren't we just being used in the end?"
"If you put it that way, we humans are also using the gods."
"Isn't that a little different…?"
"What would you do if a passing ant were to follow you?"
To that, the priests opened their mouths one by one.
"I think I'd take it home and raise it."
"Wouldn't I give it food?"
"I'd probably run away, wondering why it's following me."
"Isn't it possible that I wouldn't see it because it's too small?"
"I would check to see if there's a problem."
Kang Seo-dam asked in turn.
"How would you raise the ant if you took it home?"
"Um… wouldn't I give it a house? You know, those ant farm kits."
"What kind of food would you want to give it?"
"…I'm not sure, a grain of rice? Star candy? Wouldn't I give it something like that?"
"Why did you think you would run away?"
"How can an ant recognize and follow me, it's strange, isn't it? It's not even human. Someone must be pulling a sinister scheme."
"Would you be concerned if you didn't see it because it was small?"
"That… wouldn't I not know in the first place? I probably wouldn't even know it was there."
"How will you check if there is a problem?"
"Just by catching it…? Looking over its body, or, well…."
Kang Seo-dam asked one last time.
"Are you confident you wouldn't crush a small ant while holding it in your hand?"
"…If I'm unlucky, I think it might get crushed."
"Please express the emotion you would feel at that time, sister."
"A bit… sorry? Gross?"
"I see."
He spoke to the priests.
"This is how the gods perceive you."
"...."
The children who did not know turned pale, and the children who had been guessing at such words let out sighs.
Kang Seo-dam, after observing their expressions, continued.
"If a god loves you and takes you in, you will be imprisoned in a safe and peaceful fetter. If a god misinterprets your cries and gives you power and wealth you cannot handle, you will easily be broken."
"...."
"Some gods may find it unbelievably gross and disgusting that a human has sought them out. And some gods will not even perceive you no matter how desperately you call. It can be like that."
He looked at the child who had answered last.
"If there is a god who tries to understand and be considerate in a clumsy way, you could die by their touch. And no god will be sad even if a human dies like that."
If that incident sparked their interest in humans, they would seek out another follower, and if it instead created an aversion, they would not even give a glance to humans for the rest of their lives. That was what a god was.
"In very rare cases, there are humans who receive a god's normal affection. We call these beings Saintesses and Saints, and they become a medium connecting the great existence of a god and humans for their entire lives."
"I heard that the Saintess of the Lady Moon Cult communicates with the god! They said she is a living god, the next Lady Moon."
"Yes, she is a very important figure. And because of that, the Saintess of the Lady Moon Cult will never be able to leave the cult for her entire life, and will always be confined within the god's touch and gaze. This is because her vessel is so large that she is the only person who can treat the god as an ordinary being."
"...."
"That is far from what we commonly call human happiness."
Kang Seo-dam said firmly.
"Do not try to understand the gods. Do not expect anything from a god, and do not try to use him. A god's enmity may be an easily understandable disaster, but a god's favor is also a disaster comparable to it."
"...."
"A god is nature and fate with a will. Just as we humans find food in nature and do not question the approaching fate, do so. Then you will avoid disaster."
He added.
"That is how to coexist with the gods."
"…I'm even more scared now…."
"A priest can open the possibility of communication with a god simply by their existence alone."
"But…."
"Someday, a god who is a good match for you will come."
Kang Seo-dam said with his characteristic blunt face.
"But if you end up serving a god who is not a good match, there would be no greater disaster than that."
"…Yees."
"So what I want to say is, try to keep your heart as virtuous as possible."
"What?"
"As I keep saying, it is generally the evil gods who respond fastest to a human's negative emotions."
And an evil god is also a god.
"In that case, you will face a disaster you could never have imagined."
Haven't I been telling you about the dangers of the gods until my mouth was sore?
"One day, you may come to want something with all your life. It could be gold, silver, and treasure, it could be some ideal lover, or it could be revenge on the people who made you miserable. Or you might be swept up by a simple impulse and fall into the thought of wanting to ruin everything."
But.
"If you hear a god's voice then, do not answer."
The one who pushed you into the pit of misfortune could have been that very god.
Humans who are easily tempted and broken in the face of sin will grab onto what they don't even know is a rotten rope.
In the first place, a god who speaks to a human when they are most pained and struggling, a god who gives an opportunity, could never be called a god of benevolence and abundance.
It was highly likely to be an evil god who was waiting for that person to be thoroughly broken.
"Rather, express your anger with your own power, use someone else to throw society into chaos, and let your two human hands grasp madness and wield it. Kill a passerby, set fire to a sleeping person's house, take out their intestines while they are alive."
"…Th, that's too…."
"That will cost you less than responding to an evil god. One who expresses their greed using an evil god will not be able to properly resolve even their own greed, and will devastate their surroundings. It would be a path where your own heart feels more refreshed and the surrounding damage is less if you take matters into your own hands."
If an evil god who is skilled at dealing with humans gets involved, no one can be saved.
Whether it's the ringleader, or the bystanders around them.
Whether they are guilty or not, such things would not be a very important perspective for an evil god.
"If you get entangled with an evil god, no one can be satisfied, and no one can be happy. That is why every intellectual who summoned an evil god for revenge was confirmed to have died after writing words of regret. The same goes for the summoners who only wanted destruction."
Their souls would still be left neglected in the evil god's clutches.
"Be wary of the gods, and exclude the evil gods."
"...."
"Then you're halfway there."
At that.
"...."
"...."
Cha Isold was sweating profusely.
Kang Seo-dam and Iruda looked at him with very subtle gazes.