V2 Chapter 188
“Truthfully, there are two sides of the [Garden of Eden]—”
Sibylla started.
“Two sides?”
Quinto walked over, and pulled out another Chair from her Storage Ring and placed it beside Levelia for Aratheia to sit.
Though the latter tried to refuse, she insisted.
In Quinto’s views, there are only two types of people in the world, and that is; an enemy or a Friend. And since these two are finally one of them; members of the Garden, Quinto now see them as a part of her family as well. Hence, the change in her attitude.
After letting Levelia and Aratheia settle in comfort, Quinto then once again withdrew a tray of glasses so clear that they haven’t seen one before, as well as a bottle of wine different from Brandy and gave them a glass of it. This one was made from real fruits and quite sweet.
As to what was inside Quinto’s Storage Rings, perhaps they were mostly foods and drinks compared to the others?
After having her refill from Quinto, Sibylla sip her Brandy and continued; “Indeed, two sides—one is the true Garden that many members belong to while the other was the public face of the Garden, and also its financial support. As for the other side, you will know in due time. And just like the others, the Garden acts like a Guild where members are tasked with different missions. Some spy-works to make an information network that covers the entire Continent, or those that completes the missions posted on the Garden’s Tablet.” as she said that, a stone-like tablet appeared in her hand.
Quinto walks over and gave Levelia and Aratheia similar stone tablets. It was like one of that Ability Tablet that was used by Nobilities to see their own physical attributes and abilities, which can only be issued by the Church of Order.
But they call it the Garden Tablet…is this not an Ability Tablet?
Besides, Ability Tablets are very expensive that only High-Class Aristocrats and the Richest Merchant families could afford one. As for how they made, it’s not known by the public and the information was monopolized by the Church.
“What is this?”
“As you can see, it’s like an Ability Tablet, but it’s somewhat different. This kind of item is given only to high-level personnel. You will be one of them. You can use it as such as well, as it has the same functions. It’s made by the greatest refiners in our Demon Empire. It’s unique, however, as once you say the required words; ‘Vanitas Vanitatum Omnia Vanitas’,”
Sibylla muttered some strange words, which Levelia and Aratheia couldn't understand. Then, suddenly the Stone Tablet light up and glowing characters appeared on the surface.
“…once you recited those words, you will then be able to access the missions listed on them. Once you completed those missions, you will receive the corresponding rewards.”
“‘Vanitas Vanitatum Omnia Vanitas’? What kind of language is that? I have never heard of such language before—is that an ancient demon language?”
Levelia wondered as she looked at the Stone Tablet that was lighting up, and showing characters after characters to create a sentence;
[Assassination of the Marquis of the Walie Kingdom; Marquis Cordatus Darn Volksgat—25, 000 Gold.
Materials: Horn of the Macehead Ape’s—200 Gold and Eye of Cockatrice—350 Gold.
Assassination of the Earl of Wintergates; Earl Shubar Gred Grogate—15, 000 Gold.
--- --- ---]
For some unknown reason, she can read the characters as if they were in the common human language. Perhaps, it was coated with Translation Magic—extremely meticulous.
Now she thought about it, she did say that Demons are not the only members of the Organization, but other races as well, including humans.
It seems she was telling the truth since they went their way to add translation magic on these tablets.
And not only most of these were Assassination Missions, but the rewards are also staggeringly extravagant!
Aratheia’s eyes as well, sitting beside Levelia couldn’t hide her shock after seeing the list of rewards. Hundreds and thousands of Gold. There were even no Silver currencies listed as a reward. Perhaps it was deemed to be too cheap? And not only monetary rewards, but there were also even items as well—Magical Items, Weapons, and Potions as rewards!
And to think that she was quite proud that her Mercenary Group has a financial ability of over a Hundred Gold earned per month. If they were able to complete even one mission written in this Tablet, would not she be set for life?!
After all, that’s thousands of gold!!
“You don’t need to worry about what Language it’s coming from, as I’m pretty sure it didn’t exist in this world. At least, I don’t have any knowledge of such language existing somewhere."
"... ..."
"But, well, when I asked for its meaning, well take a guess of what he said,"
"...??"
"... 'Everything in this world and in life, is meaningless' …or I think that’s quite what he meant,”
“Everything in this world is meaningless… that’s quite a fancy claim,”
Levelia chuckled in amusement.
However, she can’t help but feel quite moved on how profound it sounds.
Money, prestige, fame, achievements, appearance, treasures, and many more, everything that men take pride in and treasured, are all meaningless. In a sense, indeed, after all, everyone dies, and those things could never be of use after death.
Life is short, life is fragile, more so for humanity.
…but Demons should have different perceptions of things than human beings. As in terms of power and lifespan, they both are superior.
Just what did it take for him to say something like this?
Levelia couldn’t help but curios.
But Sibylla shook her head, as she too sometimes, couldn’t understand what goes in the head of her beloved. Sometimes, she even felt as if he was standing not the same world as them. So distant, so aloof, so high.
“...Most of the Missions are Assassination Missions, as you can see. Whether you like out or not, the [Garden of Eden] is not a righteous organization. As for the clients of these assassination missions, you can rest assured that they came from, not from the Demons only, but also from other races, including Humans. As you can see in the list, aside from Human targets, there were also Demons and Demi-humans as well. Even high-ranking Demons were included among them."
Though, the only thing is that the targets didn't come from their side, and instead, coming from Lucifalion's side, as well as others who are treated as Cian's enemies. But Sibylla didn't need to say this, for this is a personal vendetta that Levelia still is not qualified to know.
"....Once you take their heads, you can exchange it for the reward. The rewards will be given to you personally by the [Garden’s Aerators] they are the ones responsible for these kinds of things. That goes as well with the Material Collection. In addition, sometimes, there were Investigation and Information Gathering Missions as well.” Sibylla explained with a faint smile.
“Aside from the Mission Tablet, there are also rings and emblems.”
When she said that, Sibylla took off her gloves and displayed the ring on his index finger, while Quinto did the same as well.
The ring with an Ouroboros engraved on it as well as the familiar coin Levelia once had given to Sibylla from Cian.
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“One type is the Emblem, these small coins. I think you should have known by now. They are all given to members of the Organization as a sign of belonging to the group. This is an exalted piece and cannot be lost. Once lost, you will be punished harshly—I think you don’t want to know what kind of punishment there is, so do be careful in safety-keeping these things. The other type is these Rings. These Rings represent authority…and only the highest level of the Garden could own one. And they are the [Numbers]…though, there were exception such as me,”
“You did mention the [Number] several times. So they are the bigwigs?”
“Yes, they are… Ten people bearing the name of the [Garden of Eden], they represent total power in the Organization behind the sole Master. I can’t give you a spot, however, if that’s what you wanted. You will be eyed by them if I do so, and I assure you that wouldn’t be something you would like. You should do best to treat them with caution if you ever meet them, or best outright ignore them. They wouldn’t care about you, as they have their own responsibilities to take care of. Though, if you ever need help, just say... [Memento Mori] in the Garden’s Tablet while dropping blood on it, and it will notify the others of your crisis. Since you are a part of our family now, you can place your faith in that whatever happens, you won’t be dropped by the Garden as long as you believe in it.”
“… …”
“Just like what Aanuel always says; ‘The Garden takes care of its own’, whatever happens, you have the Garden in your back and you will be protected by each of us. No matter how small or insignificant your position is. Even if your opponent is a country, the Garden will stomp everything in your way—” said Sibylla with a sharp edge on her voice.
“That’s a reassuring ally I have there,”
Levelia smiled faintly.
“A Family takes the rise together, or falls in ruins together… I just hope that you will also have your own sense of belonging within this large Greenhouse soon, Levelia. I have taken another Gamble with you, and I hope I would never start to regret it,” Sibylla remarked with a gorgeous smile.
“And I shall do my best to respond to such expectations, Your Highness,”
Levelia answered with a confident smile a she stood up and bowed, quite relaxed this time.
“... After all, this is also not your own, but mine as well.”
“I’ll put my heart at ease then…for you are his chosen, you are different. I hope you cannot forget that. As much as I dislike you, I also have my own expectations as well.” remarked Sibylla, as a hard edge entering her tone.
“…just don’t forget your status, then we can be at ease together—you agree, Levelia?”
Levelia smiled wryly; “I’m not someone who doesn’t know or understand my situation, Your Highness. Even if I did see quite a chance, unfortunately, it belongs to the category of the impossible. Still, I’m quite thankful that you were able to, at least, acknowledge my existence. That itself is already something beyond my expectation.”
“As long as you love him, and you avoid hurting him…the desire for flesh is but a materialistic pleasure."
Sibylla grin with a mischievous smile.
"... His heart, on the other hand, can only be mine. But sharing a piece wouldn’t be a problem, especially if it’s done with good reason or purpose. I’m not something who follows my heart alone, for I know, that my beloved’s desire is something I cannot give with my power alone. So, a piece of advice, do steel your heart, as you will need it, in this chosen path of yours.”
“Point taken,”
Levelia nodded her head. Then, suddenly as if she recalled something she turned towards Sibylla with a complicated expression.
“Actually I came with another purpose, though just a small issue,”
“…the Monster Outbreak, I presume?”
At Sibylla’s sudden response, Levelia’s dropped open.
Presently, she replied, “Why…yes, but how?”
“A simple matter of timing and logic, Levelia.”
Sibylla smirked, “Did you also think that this matter is with our involvement?”
Levelia shook her head. “No, although I admit that this doubt appeared in my head before, I’m not one of blind or deaf, can't think for myself. I had seen and knew much more than normal people, especially of matters these past few days. Furthermore, Cian didn’t know about the existence of the Basilisk, which you said, was being chased by him even at this point in time—and also, I’m pretty certain, is the crux of this issue.” said by her with a sharp gaze.
"... ..."
Sibylla stared at her with a narrowed gaze.
"I just want some answers...and perhaps hoping you know it,"
Levelia said, a bit hopeful.
"Who do you think is behind this sudden monster outbreak in the Winter Mountain, your highness? Pardon my rudeness, of course, I know that this is out of the Demon’s Hands, but even I couldn’t think of anything or anyone could be responsible for this sudden problem…”
“At least you’re conscientious.”
Sibylla chortled.
“Indeed, this is not our doing…or at least, not the Demon’s responsibility like most of your people claimed. Blinded by hatred and arrogance, your people placed everything in our front yard, even bones and ashes of dogs we don’t even care. Nevertheless, even if you want to ask me, I, for one is also completely in wonder about what was going on and occurring as to this very moment. Unfortunately, I don’t even have a single clue on the matter—almost to the point of believing that this is a natural event.”
“…I see, so? What are you going to do? If this continues—”
“I know, innocents will be harmed. However, what can we do? In the absence of any further evidence, we can only stay aside and let the inevitable occurs." said Sibylla in a fit of anger and rage.
"...We are not Gods, Levelia. No one here is. We are also on our wit’s end, and the offender of this issue is none other than your government. They are. They are the ones who used this opportunity, despite knowing it clearly, and used it to their own benefits!"
Levelia had understood this, and her expression darkens.
Even though the Demi-humans are the one who had been hit the worst, but actually not only them but all races staying in this City, including even the human commoners. They are the suffering the most because of this sudden order of extermination.
Now, Level wondered if this country’s leaders are just dumb fools or pretending to be, since the City, this City, in particular, had found itself between rock and a hard place.
The Monster Outbreak from the forest, and now the idiosyncrasies of the people of the country.
The times of Chaos seemed inevitable…
“…I know this is not your fault, and I apologize for my tone, but I just find it difficult to remain calm due to what stupidity your country is doing. But I warned you, Levelia. Do not…in any case or circumstance, involved yourself in this Chaos. Even if you try to save most people, you will just be the one to get ostracized in the end and be punished for false accusations. You know your country well. Just do and manage your own business. The Demi-humans matters…is already a lost cause.”
“Are you giving me a warning out of the goodness of heart, or due to the things that I could aid you in this conquest?” remarked by Levelia with a faint smirk.
“Both…though, the latter perhaps much heavier in weight. After all, I believe we are not that close yet for me to put my worries for you, in the heart—prove yourself for me, first.” Sibylla replied with a grin.
“And we might be able to become friends, at least”
“I would puke if you said the former,”
Levelia shook her head and laugh.
“But rest assured. The Demi-humans matters are not of my concern. Though, I do feel it’s quite a pity. But this is how the world works… I claimed to be of help to you, and meet your expectations, and I would do no risk to sabotage that.”
“It’s good that you know your purpose. Many people will be sacrificed in this, and perhaps, you might witness several tragic scenes before your very eyes. I do admit, unlike demons, you humans have strange emotions and sympathies in those kinds of dramas. But never forget, if you want to save them, or change the matters at hand quicker, then saving a single person or two, wouldn’t change anything. Rather, bring down this cruel regime faster than you ever could…that’s the only choice. This country had lost its edge, it’s already a disappointment.” Sibylla coldly snorted.
“Is that how you goad me to work my best until I’m flesh and bones? Well, I do say you have good talent to be a government official,” Levelia smirk.
Sibylla grinned; “Well, as they say, Demons are good at taking advantage of a feeble heart. Just acting my part. The Revolution is at hand, Levelia. We both know what my idiot wants, and you have a good role to play in this banquet. So? Why don’t you take your instrument and play a good tune to liven up the audiences?”
“I’m not one who plays music. My friends all say I’m tone-deaf,”
Levelia chuckled.
“…even if it’s grating in the ears, I do believe it’s enough for those dogs who can’t appreciate real beauty, don’t you think?” Sibylla smirked.
“… is that supposed to be a compliment for me?”
"That's the best compliment I could give you now, so deal with it,"
"...then, I'm hoping for more next time. But until then, try learning poetry a bit,"
Levelia and Sibylla stared at each other.
Though, after a while, without saying anything anymore, Levelia stood up and started walking towards the door.
When she was about to grab the doorknob, she turned at her one last glance, “I think I mentioned this before—that I can never bring myself to like you, your highness. And I still think the same,” she smiled, though she said that, her expression was not of malice but instead, of warmth and gentleness.
“…what a coincidence, I share the same thought, Levelia. And do forgive me, but I was actually waiting for you to make a mistake so that I will be the one to kill you by my own hands,”
Sibylla smiled happily while she said that, her eyes even turned crescent.
“Indeed, and I think this if for the best…you abhor me, so you better look at everything I do. I will exceed your expectations, for certain!”
After she declared that, Levelia turned the knob and exited.
Aratheia bowed at Sibylla and Quinto one last time before leaving as well.
Clank! Thud!
The door closed.
“My lady…”
“She’s a good woman; don’t you think as well Sinope?”
Sibylla grinned as she leaned her head against her palm. Her expression full of interest and wonder, as well as hard to conceal satisfaction.
“I think so as well, my lady,”
Quinto nodded her head with a faint smile.
She was indeed telling the truth, as she never expected that Levelia would act like that. She admired her courage, bravery, and determination.
“Although I don’t like Aanuel showering other women with affection, but I have to admit, his vision never ceases to amaze me. In one way or another, those women he had chosen, have this strange spark around them—something that is hard to understand but you will know that they are gems covered with mud and dust and just waiting for someone to discover them, and polished them. Whether the Goddess Night is truly looking out for him or not, at least it does seems like he was truly loved by the heavens above.”
Sibylla shook her head, but her expression was filled with pride and love. Even Quinto couldn’t help but feel affected as well as her eyes lit up as she considered the jest approvingly, and at once her solemn expression seemed to melt away, replaced by beautiful sunlight.
“A Demon Prince loved by the Heavens…that's quite a claim, your Highness,”
Quinto smiled wryly at the ironic words of Sibylla.
Sibylla chuckled and then turned towards the window; “The Walpurgis is until the next full moon. We’ve got three weeks left, and my idiot of a lover is still nowhere to be seen. My Night, I was supposed to be his guard. I can only lie to Elder Sister about this, but if she knows that I was not with him, I would probably be in trouble,” she smiled bitterly. Then, she turned towards the window to look at the starless night sky.
“Faster, Aanuel… you need to return quickly, or else I would not be able to keep your disappearance a secret from Elder Sister…”
… …