Chapter 500
Why on earth do the gods grant their divinity for things like this?
Ian inwardly clicked his tongue but kept his eyes fixed on the commander, whose brows were furrowed. The man's reaction would determine a great deal moving forward. This was, in a sense, the first critical step.
It was also one of the reasons Ian hadn't stopped Lucia from stepping forward, unlike his usual self. If he just clenched his teeth and endured a moment of pain, he would be able to find out many things upon his return.
"The one behind me is a holy warrior of the Stern Goddess, one blessed by the Prosperous Goddess and the Burning Goddess. The chosen one who rejected the goddesses' revelations."
Regardless of his inner thoughts, Lucia was faithfully carrying out her role. Speaking in a voice that spread with powerful heat, she took a step to the side and extended her left arm as if to present Ian.
Her actions felt larger and more exaggerated than usual, likely to make sure everyone on the wall could see clearly. Of course, she could have just been enjoying herself.
"The savior of the frontier and the final punisher of the giant kingdom, the Dragon Slayer who pierced the heart of the evil dragon, and the enforcer of the west who purified corruption and plague."
In any case, as Lucia continued, the commander's expression completely changed. He was now staring blankly at Ian, his button-like eyes wide open. But Ian could tell it wasn't just surprise. He saw disbelief and doubt swirling in those eyes as well.
"The true Great Warrior of the North, and the ruler of the snowfields who governs ten thousand barbarians. The god-slayer who killed the descended avatar of chaos, and the guardian of the northern front."
And it was the same for the soldiers lined up on the wall. Though their faces were covered with hoods, it was easy enough to guess their expressions just from their exposed eyes. Even the orcs couldn't take their eyes off Ian's face now.
So my name's made it all the way to the South.
Maintaining a blank expression, Ian was inwardly certain. It even seemed they didn't just know his name. They all seemed to know what had happened to him.