NOVEL NEXT Chapter 1: World of gods
"I devoted my life to humanity, always putting them first! And you… you! You betrayed me! How could you stab me in the back like this? What about our childhood? Was it all just a lie?"
Before Leo could say anything, as his life slipped away, he heard another voice resonate within his heart.
"The system has confirmed your current stage. The system's ring will now return to its origin. As you did not register as a user, the system cannot assist you further. The system wishes you well and hopes we meet again someday."
"System, huh..." Leo mumbled to himself, his voice barely audible. "How did it all come to this? When did my loyal friends... my own people, turn against me?"
As the question lingered in his mind, a surge of memories flooded back, dragging him into a vivid flashback.
The gods created this world where four major races were established. Elf, demon, Humans, Sprite. The gods gave them water, land,food, plants, and animals to serve them. Gods created 55 continents, 19 oceans. And covered the remaining parts of the world with mist. Which kept secret from all creation. Then the gods created the system of governance. So that there is no chaos in that world. Those four races were living happily in peace. They did business with each other. Some worked in someone's garden, some worked in someone's house. Someone would go to trade with demons tribe or demons tribr would come to Human tribe to trade. Everything was going well but one day the story of two thousand years of war started with an apple orchard. The owner of the apple orchard slapped his worker due to a misunderstanding. And the workman afterwards returned to his tribe and gave a report. The tribal leaders sat beneath the laden apple trees, their serious faces turned towards the matter at hand.During the trial, the worker admitted his mistake and that the apple orchard had misunderstood him. But the owner of the apple orchard does not want to agree. He says that he is lying.
"You illicitly appropriated my two carriages of apples and subsequently sold them. Now, you have the nerve to prevaricate before our leaders!"
The clerk inadvertently omitted the apples from the cart, resulting in their spoilage in the garden. He further erred by discarding additional apples without informing the owner. The owner, upon noticing a reduction in revenue, erroneously accused the employee of theft.
A petty quarrel over two apples ignited a war between humanity and the demonic realm, a conflict that has endured for two thousand years. The orchard owner's careless act has cast a long shadow, claiming countless lives and leaving a legacy of suffering.
"This book is ridiculous. Fighting over apples? What a bunch of fruitcakes! Was it just a normal apple? No one really knows.
Legends speak of a single apple exchanged during a tense meeting between leaders—human and not. Whether it was cursed, poisoned, or simply misunderstood, the aftermath was clear: alliances crumbled, armies rose, and war consumed the land.
An ordinary fruit? Or the spark that ignited an era of chaos?"
The man closed his book.he none then the great emperor Leo Garmini, a striking figure, with fair hair, bright blue eyes, and a slender nose. His broad forehead and delicate lips contrasted with his muscular frame. Clad in the Empire's red royal armor, he exuded an aura of power and nobility. The armor, a testament to his royal lineage, bore the empire's sacred symbol: a fiery sun-eye, a cosmic gaze, surrounded by figures in a mystic maze. It was a symbol of power and divine authority, a sight that inspired both awe and fear. It was the royal seal of the Ausha Empire.
Leo sat on his palace throne, engrossed in a book that detailed the origins of the war. As he pondered the historical context, one of his officers entered, interrupting his reading. Upon hearing the officer's report, Leo closed the book, his attention now focused on the present crisis.
" I pay respects to the great emperor, king of knights Great Hero Leo Garmini. I am the one of the lord of knights, barren of sea strone city Edward. "
" Edward, please don't be so formal. As friends, we can be more relaxed. Now, please tell me what the situation is," Leo said.
" The demon kingdom suddenly desires a peace treaty, Your Highness. I wonder what nefarious scheme they're plotting to destroy us. I suggest we..." Before he could finish, Leo rose from his throne. And walk close to Edward.
" Those beings have specific names. Referring to them as 'demons' is inaccurate and disrespectful. As a knight, we should acknowledge their true identities and treat them accordingly. We appreciate the respect they show us. We would appreciate the same from you. Please remember, this is the royal palace."
With head bowed, Edward said, "Forgive me, Your Highness."
"Don't worry about it, my friend. Look up. You take things too hard. Now please continue your report."
Edward cleared his throat and began discussing the demon peace treaty, their reasons for seeking peace, the potential benefits of interracial cooperation, and the crucial issue of reclaiming the human-occupied lands.
"Isn't it a cruel twist of fate, Edward? Our once-mighty empire, now dwindled to a mere seven continents. And now, the Red Moon Kingdom, of all entities, offers us a piece of our stolen past. Oh my bad it will be empire not kingdom. They are the rulers of 19 great countries. Their kingdoms will be wrong. They should be called empires. " Leo said with a smug face.
But your highness are you seriously ? considering it. Edward said.
"Edward, listen to me. We've lost everything: a vast empire with advanced magical technology, powerful mages, and skilled swordsmen. And they're demons. Do you really think they need a peace treaty with us? It's only a matter of time before humanity is defeated by them." Leo said to Edward.
"Your Highness," Edward inquired, 'If you intend to sign the negotiation, what of the Church of Western Histia and the Council?'
Leo repeated his previous claim, "Everything in the world was destroyed due to this war. Because this isn't just any war; it's a war that has been raging for two thousand years in human history."
His words hung in the air. After a brief pause, he returned to his throne and continued.
"Edward, I'm sending you on a personal mission to the Empire of the Red Moon. This is top secret. Remember, no one else must know about this, only you and me. If you fail, everything will be lost."
"I understand your highness," Edward said with a serious look
" You can leave Edward black." Leo said with an authorization tone. Edward black, bowed his head and slowly exited the throne room.
"Now he's gone," Leo thought to himself, "Let's focus on this ridiculous book."
However, after reading half a page, someone knocked at the door and asked permission to enter.
"They didn't like to leave me alone, did they?" Leo thought to himself.
Entering the throne room was an old man, Deviant Charlotte. He was a striking figure, with a muscular body and a face etched with the lines of age and experience. Sketches adorned his hands and face, and a long sword was slung across his back. His light yellow skin was weathered, and he wore light armor. He was the prime Minister of Ausha Empire.
"I pay respect to the great knight emperor, Leo Garmini," he said. "It seems you are still interested in the history of the war, Your Highness." Deviant Charlotte said to Leo.
"Nah, just seeing what kind of excuse they used to create such a disastrous war," Leo replied. "So, how are you doing, Charlotte?"
" I am well under your rule and blessed by God. Your Highness." Charlotte said. Your Highness, you sent me to aid our allies in the Demicrian Sea region. We arrived on schedule. However, the Red Moon Empire launched a surprise attack on the coast, employing powerful magical weapons that inflicted significant damage on both our forces and our allies. Curiously, after the initial assault, the enemy forces retreated without explanation.
Upon hearing Charlotte's report, emperor Leo Gerami sighed and mused, "Perhaps this is a sign that they desire a peace treaty, as indicated by the recent message from their empire."
"Your Highness! Did you say 'peace treaty'?" Charlotte asked, her surprise evident.
"Yes, Charlotte. I am considering it for the sake of humanity's future. You saw the power they wielded. It will not be today or tomorrow or ten years later, but at this rate, we are going to lose the war," Leo said to his Prime Minister with a concerned face.
"I agree with you," Charlotte said. "But Your Highness, what do you think the council, the West, and the North Churches will think about this? If they disagree with your decision"
"Who cares?" Leo stood up from his throne and approached Charlotte, who immediately bowed her head and knelt. "Tell me, who rules the empire? Me? The councilors? Or the head priest? Answer me, Charlotte!" Leo demanded, his voice laced with annoyance and anger.
Charlotte's throat tightened with fear as he struggled to answer. he had to respond; there was no other way. "It's you, Your Majesty. Please forgive this old fool," he stammered.
"No, Charlotte, you served the former king. I respect kings who gave their lives for their empire. At your advanced age, you willingly entered many dangerous battles, hoping for positive outcomes. I'm not angry with you. I know you said these things with me in mind. Now, tell me the circumstances when the first peace agreement was brought. Was there any reason not to sign it? If not, I would have taken it to them," Leo said, his voice soft, his face etched with concern.
"But please be careful, you have an enemy on the battlefield. That's easy to understand. However, if you have an enemy within your own country, your own home, disguised as a friend, it's far more difficult to detect and defeat," Charlotte replied, his voice filled with a mix of concern and determination.
" If you allow me, then I shall take my leave your majesty. " Charlotte bowed , Leo responded with a single, emphatic nod.
He lingered on his throne, a decision forming in his mind. As he rose to leave, the guards announced the chief priest's arrival.
"Your Majesty, may God bless you with a long and healthy life. I pay my respects to your royal presence." Priest said.
"May the divine bless your words, Archbishop. Your presence graces this palace."
The Archbishop, a wolf in sheep's clothing, was a master of political intrigue, using his position to amass power and influence. Whenever he visited Leo, a sense of unease washed over him. Despite the Archbishop's pious facade, Leo couldn't shake the feeling that he was the final boss, a malevolent force lurking beneath the surface.
"I am honoured by compliment legendary Hero, emperor, king of knights Leo. There's something I wish to discuss with you. A matter of great significance."
Please don't hesitate to discuss anything with me. Leo said with a gentle smile.
"Oh thank you, your Majesty. A smoky, almost sinister tone crept into his voice as he uttered, We are here to support you. I have brought a fellow devotee, who, with your permission, would like to join us."
Leo granted the archbishop permission to enter the throne room. A chill crept down Leo's spine as the figure stepped into the room.
" I'm introducing you to the holy knight captain." As the archbishop spoke, the holy knight captain, a man of great reverence, stepped forward and bowed his head before Leo.
"They call me Thomas. I lead the holy knights. Your wish is my command, Majesty.
Look up, Thomas. Leo said, for some reason he didn't like him.
The archbishop cleared his throat. "We humbly request your permission to lead your army into battle. This will not only bolster our army but also help us earn back your trust."
Leo smiled, his teeth glinting. "Trust? What trust are you trying to earn back? We already believe in our own ideals. There no need to earn trust. And of course you can send your troops. We are happy to having your troops.
Archbishop face look disappointed and with head bowed, he was allowed to exist the emperor 's presence.
The moment they were gone, Leo slipped from his throne, entered his personal bedroom, and assumed a disguise to explore the city. Just then, someone knocked at the door.
Who is it ? Leo said from inside.
Miasha, the female servant, was partially undressed. Her attire was predominantly white with a dark overlay. Her brown hair was neatly tied up, and her eyes held a warm brown hue. She was responsible for a variety of tasks, from delivering Leo's meals to laundering his dark garments.
"It's me, my lord. Miasha, your personal servant. I've brought you something to eat that you'll enjoy."
" Oh ! Miasha please come on in. " Leo said from inside of the room.
The sound of the door creaking open, followed by the sound of footsteps, could be heard.
My lord, " I bought moussaka, I hope you'll enjoy it! With extra meat. " Miasha smiled and handed the dish to Leo, who had just finished donning his disguise.
"Hmm, it smells delicious," Leo said. "Miasha, you're like a sister to me."
"I'm honored that you think of me that way," Miasha replied, but I don't deserve to be your sister, nor will I ever be. My lord, if you would permit me, I have a question. "
"Oh, Miasha," Leo replied, "I just told you that you're like my sister. You don't need to ask permission. Feel free to ask anything you'd like."
"So, when are you getting married? Or at least, when are you getting a girlfriend?" Miasha asked.
After hearing Miasha's question, Leo paused mid-bite, a frown creasing his brow. "That's an interesting question, coming out of nowhere," he mused, before resuming his meal.
"No, if you think once you have no descendants, what will happen? Will you be a virgin for the rest of your life? Don't people get even a little time to fight this war, they also need to be thought about," Miasha said, her voice filled with concern.
"Baby? Descendants? Do you think I have all this time to think at the age of 46? I don't care about them. I don't need any progeny or any woman. To do all this. Better to be a virgin for life. If you bring me food, if I am sick, give me medicine, you are there, I have no need to worry about this," Leo said, his tone turning cold.
"You don't even care about them. Because you have never experienced them. I didn't either," Miasha said, slowly approaching Leo.
"Wait, let me finish my food. What are you doing? Why are you coming so close? Take it slow," Leo asked, a hint of unease in his voice.
"Take it slowly? Why? Have I waited over 21 years? You're the same as you were as a child, and your behavior towards me hasn't changed a bit. Why am I not a woman in your eyes?" Miasha asked, her voice growing louder.
"I already told you that you're like a sister to me, so get this out of your head now," Leo said firmly.
"Sister? At least you can't take the opportunity of anyone! You trust people around you too easily, which will become a curse for you one day," Miasha said angrily, storming out of the room.
"What wrong with her ! My instant is kicking me that she is doing something wrong," Leo said, exiting his room, bypassing the Castle's Royal Guard, then slipping past the city guards to venture beyond the city walls.After collecting honey for the day, Leo entered the city as usual. As always, the guards stopped him, inquired about his goods, and provided him with the necessary guidance.
" The city gate guard did as always," Leo thought to himself.
And he began his inspection of the city houses, starting from the corner house on the street. He meticulously checked every nook and cranny, leaving no big empty space unexamined. After what felt like an eternity, Leo was nearly finished with his inspection. However, a loud bang erupted from the north side of the city, jolting him out of his routine. He ran as quickly as possible, maintaining his disguise to avoid detection. The city was noticeably colder and more deserted compared to the city on the north side. Suspiciously, Leo wondered why the population density was so low here. Leo slowed his frantic pace, his disguise masking his urgency from curious onlookers. The south side of the city, where he'd patrolled all day, was quiet and cold, a stark contrast to the bustling north side he'd heard about. Suspicion gnawed at him. Why was this area so deserted?
He ventured deeper, his eyes scanning the deserted streets. Empty houses lined the avenues, growing more numerous with each step north. The silence was eerie, broken only by the crunch of his boots on the cobblestones. "No one lives here?" he muttered, incredulous. "It's like this entire district has been abandoned for centuries. An urban legend come to life."
After a while, Leo stopped in front of the old North Church. The church door and a significant portion of the front wall were shattered, a stark testament to the explosion's destructive force. It was clear that the sound he'd heard had originated from this very spot.
"What happened here?" Leo muttered, his voice echoing in the broken church. "Why is everything destroyed?"
But soon, he saw dead bodies scattered across the ground, a grim testament to the violence that had taken place.However, his inspection was interrupted by faint voices emanating from within the church. Now he can see two Pastors coming out of church. One of them said, "What a waste of time, it's sucks."
Yeah, look at those donkey heads, now they make the city roads dirty! Moreover, our church is broke. Another one said...
" Really, these people are stupid. Well, our experiment is a failure. Let's clear this up before the knight comes here. "
Now Leo was getting curious about what kind of experiment the church was doing.
"Hey, use this acid. It will work like magic," one of them said. "Yeah, I totally forgot. The acid will eat the bodies, but the blood marks..."
"Don't worry, it will help," one said. However, they were interrupted by Leo, the traveling merchant.
"Honey! I have honey! Does anyone here want some? We have honey. Have a little taste, no money," Leo said, now coming closer to the church where the massacre happened. After coming close, he immediately shouted and said, "Oh my, what on heaven's earth happened here?"
Seeing Leo, the pastors didn't care. They just said, "It's the demon. Demons attacked us. Hey, you, leave from here," one of them said.
But immediately, another one pointed at him with one of his hands. They looked at themselves with a terrible, strange smile. Then one of them said, "You sell honey, right? We have a sick person here. Can you please give me honey?" And another one said to him, "Yes, that is the only alive one, so if you give a little, honey merchan, God will be pleased with you."
One of them also went into the church. "It's okay, God will bless you," he said.
"One will be outside and the other will take me in. Did they think I was a fool? How ignorant they are, they are stepping into my trap," Leo thought.
Leo also played along, thinking, "Let's find out what those bastards are doing under my rule without me knowing."
After entering the church, he saw that there was nothing holy inside. Instead, horrific experiments were being conducted on people.
Upon entering, Leo's foot stopped. Dead bodies of demons, humans, elves, and vampires were strewn about, a horrific sight. Leo was shocked. The bodies of fallen knights, the alliance that had always aided them, and even their enemy knights were disrespected, subjected to experiments that defiled their deaths.
"You have come to do business but keep your nose everywhere because of it. today you will die in this place." The pastor said to the one who wanted to let him in. He had been guiding him until now. He pulled out his dagger and tried to cut Leo's throat, but it was stopped midway.
"You called yourself a... pos... po what again? I forget whatever you are, insect. Do you think you can land a scratch on me?" Leo said.
Leo spread his arms very easily and stood there like nothing had happened.
"For a merchant, you're really strong. However, I'm also strong. And you think yourself too highly," the pastor said.
Leo said only one thing, "Who ordered you to do these things in my kingdom?"
"You're now talking like you're the emperor. How dare you mock our emperor!" he said with a mocking tone. "Now this is for the stupid emperor." Setter drew his dagger again and directly attacked Leo.
"Ah... I really don't care what you think about me. However, if you think about previous emperors, then..."
He raised one of his hands. And from the palm of his hand, a yellow light resembling a small ball could be seen. It shot out towards the pastor. The pastor first tried to avoid the attack, but it followed him and he took the hit. In the blink of an eye, he collapsed to the ground.
"You see, I'm the strongest human in the Contemporary world. Oh, it's useless, you can't hear me, now the other one," Leo said, a smug smile