[https://i.imgur.com/eY2gF5l.png]

Feeling restless and unable to bear the wait any longer, I decided to explore the cathedral in search of something intriguing or worthwhile. Father Malfus had hinted at the existence of secrets within these sacred walls, and I was determined to uncover them.

I sense a ploy in the air... could it be that I am the one being deceived?

Making my way towards the back of the room, where I had instructed Yosef, a newly recruited member, to remain hidden, I ventured into the shadows. Yosef had already fallen victim to corruption, his once bright spirit dimming under the influence of a dark enchantment I had placed upon him. I approached him, eager to gather any information he had discovered.

"Did you do as I asked?" I inquired, my voice laced with a hint of authority.

"Yes, my lord," Yosef replied, his voice tinged with a touch of fear. "I have investigated as you requested. Father Malfus is a respected archbishop within the church. While he holds some influence, it is not particularly remarkable."

I listened attentively, curious to know more. "And what have you learned about Cardinal Lucious?"

"I have discreetly inquired among the monks. It seems that Cardinal Lucious is indeed en route to the Cathedral as we speak. His arrival is imminent."

"Excellent... Well, considering you're here, I might as well assign you your next task. What do you think?"

"It would be an honor, my lord."

"Proceed to the monastery discreetly, and eliminate every resident—monks, nuns, women, and children. Leave no survivors. It's time to begin gathering the souls required for the power you seek."

"I will ensure it is done."

Yosef rose from his bow and exited the room.

The task I had assigned him was undoubtedly challenging, given the security of the Holy Empire. However, there were evident vulnerabilities that suggested they were unprepared for an internal assault. This allowed me to enter the cathedral without arousing suspicion about my intentions.

Yet, I couldn't entirely fault them for their oversight. The holy empire possessed a powerful aura that weakened and even killed creatures of evil. Yosef, having recently turned to the path of darkness, still retained a heart of purity. To protect him from the aura, I had cast a spell of dark protection—a potent spell of the sixth tier that would shield him while he carried out the massacre. However, the spell's duration was limited, requiring him to swiftly eliminate everyone at the monastery and depart before the protection waned.

Leaving the cathedral behind, I strolled through the gardens situated on its right side. Towering hedges and meticulously maintained greenery surrounded me, as the brisk wind carried the essence of autumn to my face.

Normally indifferent to the changing seasons, I found the touch of the breeze against my human skin oddly soothing for a fleeting moment.

But the fleeting comfort soon dissipated, and I reverted to my conniving nature.

I stepped into the exquisite garden that lay before me, a haven of vibrant flowers. At its center stood a magnificent statue of Michael, meticulously crafted from pure marble. The quality and craftsmanship were on par with the grand citadel, displaying a flawless surface without a single crack.

Approaching the statue, my gaze fell upon the inscription adorning its pedestal.

"In Michael We Trust."

As I observed the remarkable artistry, an intense wave of animosity towards Michael surged within me. With a subtle gesture of my finger infused with dark magic, I caused the statue to develop a crack, marring the perfection of its intricately sculpted features.

Now, the statue bore a scar, a crack that marred its countenance, extending from its eye down its face. Its former elegance and flawlessness were forever marred by the effects of my malevolent spell.

With a mischievous grin playing across my face, I continued my leisurely stroll through the garden, finding amusement in the works and crafts of the human realm.

"Summon the Fire Elemental,"

Before me materialized a creature composed of swirling flames, its body akin to molten lava, scorching the ground beneath its presence. Taking on a humanoid form, its feet were replaced by a massive fiery blob. The creature stood before me, awaiting my instructions.

"Remain here patiently, and upon hearing the tolling of the bells, unleash havoc upon the gardens. Leave nothing in your path."

The creature gazed at me expressionlessly, but I knew it comprehended its task. To further conceal its presence in case of unexpected encounters, I cast an invisibility spell upon it, rendering it unseen to the naked eye.

A flame elemental was not inherently malevolent, being a product of elemental magic of nature, it remained unaffected by the holy aura that enveloped the entire country.

Continuing my leisurely stroll through the garden, I reached its conclusion, granting me a vantage point overlooking the entire realm. The cathedral itself stood elevated from ground level, its foundation raising the entirety of the structure by several stories, with only one entrance.

The city below continued its bustling routine, oblivious to the impending chaos that loomed over it. However, the mere prospect of watching the world burn was insufficient to satisfy my desires.

Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

As I pondered my options, an unsettling realization crept in—I lacked summoning spells that could withstand the formidable aura surrounding this place. My repertoire was limited, rendering me unable to unleash further devastation.

Reluctantly, I decided to leave my current plans on hold. There would be another time, another opportunity to wreak havoc. For now, I would bide my time and await a more opportune moment to unleash the full extent of my malevolence.

[https://i.imgur.com/7fgH3qs.png]

The resounding peal of the church bells reverberated throughout the entire city, a majestic and commanding sound that summoned the masses to gather before the magnificent structure. Hastening my steps, I swiftly returned to the entrance, arriving just in time for a grand ceremony.

A long scarlet carpet cascaded down the cathedral stairs, leading to a regal carriage flanked by vigilant guards. Thousands of onlookers had congregated, eagerly anticipating the spectacle. As I stood elevated above the crowd, my gaze fixated on the scene unfolding below.

Emerging from the carriage, amidst the flowing locks of her elegantly styled hair, came Yarine, the esteemed priestess of the holy order. She exuded an air of nobility, her attire transformed into a resplendent ensemble. Clad in white, ethereal and delicately revealing garments that billowed in the breeze, she appeared truly magnificent.

However, my focus lay elsewhere, for I had a greater objective to pursue.

Emerging from the depths of the carriage emerged a venerable figure—a towering, weathered man of advanced age, yet still radiating strength. His attire boasted a vibrant crimson hue, crowned with a towering red biretta, a distinctive hat worn by cardinals. The biretta was bedecked with resplendent gemstones, shimmering with brilliant colors, and embellished with intricate gold embroidery.

Stepping out with an air of authority, he raised his hand aloft, the cheers of the assembled multitude crescendoing in response. A smile graced his lips as he acknowledged the adoring throng, gradually ascending the stairs with Yarine at his side.

Coming to a halt atop the staircase, he turned his gaze towards me, bestowing a subtle, knowing nod before continuing his triumphant procession into the citadel. Yarine cast a suspicious glance in my direction, her eyes betraying a hint of curiosity and apprehension.

The two figures strode into the resplendent cathedral, the congregation trailing in their wake. I followed suit, finding my place at the forefront of the church, observing as everyone settled into their designated seats.

After the assembly had settled, Cardinal Lucious approached the imposing podium, commanding the attention of all present.

"More than a decade ago, our great nation teetered on the brink of ruin. Yet, it was through the unwavering courage and righteous blade of Michael that we triumphed against the unrelenting legions of darkness. The Demon God, perched upon his infernal throne, has cast his sinister gaze upon our mortal realm for millennia, yet we have endured! We have not only endured but flourished, steadfastly repelling each ferocious assault."

The crowd erupted in fervent applause, expressing their admiration for the cardinal as his resounding voice permeated every corner of the sacred space.

"The devil's honeyed words may entice us, his false promises of power tempting our resolve. But we must not succumb to the seductions of the infernal realm, regardless of the allure they present. For if we yield, our souls shall be condemned to an eternity of unending darkness. Instead, let us walk the path of justice, unwavering in our pursuit, and fight valiantly for the future of all humanity!"

Impudent fool.

"Now, I am well aware that what I am about to say echoes what you have already heard countless times, and I am not here to burden you with reminders of your moral obligations. However, we find ourselves in a time fraught with darkness and peril, uncertainty lurking in every shadow. It is with great concern that I address all those gathered here today, for in our midst, at this very moment, the devil himself hides."

Emperor Lucious fixed his gaze upon me, while the crowd turned towards me, their expressions filled with questioning.

"Through the twisted arts of dark magic, this individual before us today attempted to lead the young priestess Yarine astray from her path of justice. He sought to sow seeds of doubt and corruption within her soul. Yet, her unwavering belief in Michael and our teachings triumphed. Alas, misguided sorcerer, you cannot shatter our faith."

"BUT THAT IS NOT ALL! FOR IT IS KNOWN THAT FORCES OF EVIL CANNOT PENETRATE OUR HUMBLE NATION, ONLY BEINGS OF ABSOLUTE POWER CAN CROSS INTO OUR DOMAIN... REVEAL YOURSELF, SPAWN OF DARKNESS, AND LET US BEHOLD YOUR TRUE NATURE!"

Drawing forth a mystical staff, Lucious unleashed a radiant beam of holy light in my direction, its luminescent rays converging upon my mortal form.

As the divine energies of the ray met my flesh, my body seared and writhed in agony. Amidst the scorching flames, my mortal vessel disintegrated, and my true celestial form emerged, causing the once-illuminating light to fade, as Lucious's powers waned in its presence.

I see... So I've been found out....

Standing in the grandeur of the church, my infernal majesty towering over the shocked bishops and congregation, I donned my menacing armor, with wings outstretched to span the vastness of the cathedral. Gazing down upon the mortals who quivered in fear, their expressions a mix of astonishment and terror.

Even Emperor Lucious himself stood in disbelief, unprepared for the manifestation of my infernal presence within their midst.

"Foolish humans... You cower behind feeble walls, seeking refuge in the heavens' feeble might when you possess no power of your own. Tremble and despair, for I am the darkness that shall consume this world, reducing the very landscapes you find solace in to naught but ash."

"You... You hold no sway here!" Lucious retorted, attempting to quell the rising tension. "Remain vigilant, for his true powers cannot be unleashed within the divine protection bestowed upon us by our Lord."

Guards swiftly entered the chamber, encircling me, joined by a multitude of priests and monks, while the crowd sought safety behind their protective ranks.

Stepping forward, Yarine emerged, clutching her cross and raising it skyward.

"It was you who birthed the eldritch horror! I have no doubt of it... Emperor Lucious saw through your lies, and together we prepared this trap for you."

So everything she told me was a lie... Well played.

"Silence, child, your words are wasted," Lucious interjected, his focus firmly fixed upon me. "Demon, what is your purpose? Why have you come before us?" he demanded.

"Why have I come? To inform you that your beloved Michael rots in the depths of hell... The torture he suffers for your sins, for your incompetence... if only you knew of his fate... your faith blinds you, old man. Just as it blinds all of you. Even under the feeble spell you call divine magic, I possess the power to extinguish every single life present here. Do you truly think you can hold a candle against one such as I? The very being that broke your precious Michael into submission? Do not insult me!"

"You talk a lot for someone who's desperate. The likes of you will never be victorious in the face of justice! " Lucious continued. "Did you really think we were going to fight you alone?"

Emperor Lucious raised his arms, a blinding radiance burst forth from the stained-glass windows overhead. The intricate panes shattered into countless shards, cascading to the ground, causing the terrified crowd to cower and seek shelter.

Descending from the celestial heights, the archangels I had clashed with before materialized within the cathedral. Their holy presence permeated every inch of the sacred structure, their majestic forms emanating divine power. Each wielded their celestial weapons, gleaming with their righteousness and purpose.