Chapter 507: Side Story, Reunion (1)
Chapter 507: Side Story, Reunion (1)
Despite finishing my vacation because I had felt rested enough, I now realized there was little left that truly demanded my involvement—that was largely because I was surrounded by people I could rely on.Most matters no longer demanded my attention. Hendrick and Ha Hee-Jeong were steadily handling affairs on Earth without the need for my interference. As for the worlds beyond, they rested in Thunder Axe, Master of the Five Carriage Wheels, and Aurora’s capable hands.
Just how long did they prepare for all of this?
After driving out Kalain’s remaining forces, the Liberation Alliance had moved swiftly to stabilize the worlds left in turmoil. Everything advanced with remarkable efficiency, without hesitation or wasted motion. It felt less like a response to an unexpected crisis and more like the execution of a plan that had long been in place. Perhaps their preparations had begun well before they had ever discovered me during our first climb.
That said, there were no further wars.
From the moment Kalain fell by my hand, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say the balance of power had already collapsed. On top of that, I had transferred half of my authority and strength to Aurora. No one dared to show so much as a hint of resistance now that she had joined the effort.
All that remained for me was to deal with the gods with whom I had unresolved enmity.
In the past, I had spent a great deal of time worrying about what would come after conquering the tower. Now, looking back, those concerns felt unnecessary.
I never imagined I would become this strong.
It was, to some extent, thanks to Kalain himself. Even if Thunder Axe had involved themself, we wouldn’t have been able to overcome the older challenger’s faction. However, by insisting on a direct, one-on-one duel, Kalain had drastically reduced pointless sacrifices and wasted time.
I briefly considered addressing the hostile gods immediately, but decided to leave them be a little longer. It would become clear to me who was—or wasn’t—capable of redemption the moment I faced them.
Even if I chose to spare them, forcing them to stew in a state of anxiety and uncertainty could be considered part of their punishment. It was a consequence of their own actions, and I didn’t feel sympathetic in the slightest.