Little Garden 321-325

Title: Maria and the Halloween Queen

In a courtyard filled with seasonal flower beds, at the end of a pristine white jade path, stood a small pavilion.

The pavilion was entirely made of marble, with seamless joints between pillars and roof—as if carved from a single massive block of marble.

Beneath the pavilion, the Halloween Queen—wearing a platinum-gold crown, a blazing red gown, and hair as radiant as the sun—gazed boredly at a photograph.

It was a photo of a knight holding a beautiful holy sword, clad in silver-blue armor, smiling brightly.

More precisely, it was a photo of the best knight in her heart, Arthur—unfortunately…

(The knight I loved most fell to protect me.)

“Your Majesty the Queen, Maria requests an audience!”

Beside her, Scathach—wearing a straight, form-fitting maid uniform—suddenly appeared and bowed respectfully to the Halloween Queen.

“Haaah, she really dares come see me.”

The Halloween Queen sneered, putting away the photo, tucking a strand of hair behind her temple, and lightly touching up her makeup.

Scathach remained bowed, not daring to move an inch.

Since the Halloween Queen returned, the entire Sky Garden’s atmosphere had been oppressively heavy—as if mourning Arthur’s fall.

Of course, it would be better if Shiroyasha hadn’t come to provoke her.

Otherwise, why would the mood here be so gloomy?

“Have her wait outside.”

The Halloween Queen waved her hand, instructing Scathach to inform Maria.

A long while later—having changed into a black gown and black hair ornaments—the Halloween Queen sat at the stone table, silently sipping nearly cold tea.

“Let Maria in.”

The Halloween Queen set down her teacup and spoke flatly.

Moments later, a plump, grim-faced woman in a black nun’s robe entered nervously.

Maria looked anxiously at the Halloween Queen, walking slowly with a resigned attitude, then sat across from her.

At that moment, Maria also noticed the cold tea on the pristine white stone table.

Then, the Halloween Queen—dressed in mourning—spoke with slight heaviness and a somewhat hoarse voice.

“Sorry for keeping the Holy Mother waiting. My knight is gone, and I’m having trouble accepting it for now.”

“I am deeply sorry.”

Maria bowed her head deeper, sighed, took the teacup, and sipped lightly.

The tea was bitter—the worst she had ever tasted in her life.

But the tea’s bitterness ultimately paled compared to the bitterness in her heart.

The Holy Son had lost—and even fallen.

For Christianity, the consequences were unimaginable. Even pushing herself to the limit to hold it together, she could only stabilize the angels in Heaven.

The once-great Christianity had now splintered into three factions: the Beato faction (those canonized), various angels, and Demon Lords and Demons who had joined Christianity as leaders.

The Hell faction, led by the Devil King of Hell.

The last was the Heaven faction, which she had barely maintained.

When the tree falls, the monkeys scatter. With God vanished and the Holy Son fallen, past friendships were worthless.

In just days, Christianity split into three factions—with many other Pantheons eyeing Christianity’s faith share, ready to plunder.

Though Christianity’s foundation was vast—even her current Heaven faction still had over a hundred Three-Digit Archangels and dozens of Special Angels (Outliers), plus many Beato she had guided, led by Jeanne d’Arc.

Without surprises, Christianity might turmoil for centuries—but ultimately be subdued by her.

However, the surprise was that the Halloween Queen would likely seek revenge.

A knight who could unleash Two-Digit power sacrificed himself to protect her—she couldn’t hold back.

The Halloween Queen’s mad retribution was inevitable and certain.

Thinking this, Maria raised her head, looking at the cold-faced Halloween Queen before her—so different from her former carefree attitude—and couldn’t help sighing inwardly.

How could she satisfy the Halloween Queen?

She truly wasn’t good at such things.

In Christianity, her role was managing internal faith, guiding angels and followers, leading them from darkness, showing them the way.

That’s why she could still hold the Holy Mother position.

Most angels and Beato had accepted her kindness.

But when it came to bargaining and scheming with other Pantheons—that wasn’t her responsibility, but the Holy Son’s.

“Regardless, as long as the Queen is satisfied, Christianity is willing to pay any price.”

Maria raised her head, staring very seriously—the resolve in her eyes slightly startling the Halloween Queen.

The Halloween Queen raised a curved eyebrow.

“Any price? Then what if I want Christianity buried with him?”

Hearing this, Maria frowned and couldn’t help saying,

“That cannot be. I promised Yahweh to preserve Christianity.”

“Hmm? Dystopia? You’re still connected to Dystopia?”

The Halloween Queen showed an intrigued expression. Back then, Dystopia destroyed the Norse and Celtic Pantheons.

If not for the Holy Son becoming Two-Digit then, Christianity’s fate wouldn’t have been much better than the Celtic Pantheon.

Faith severance would be the best outcome.

Maria froze.

She felt she might have made a grave mistake.

With just that sentence, the Halloween Queen could hold Christianity by the throat until death.

“Fine—no need to be so nervous. Though I don’t get along with him, I won’t use it to threaten you.”

The Halloween Queen smiled, but Maria’s words had piqued her curiosity.

“Wasn’t that group the first destroyed when he incarnated as Dystopia?”

“Then why did he ask you to preserve Christianity?”

If the Halloween Queen was Little Garden’s most carefree existence, then Yahweh was the most god-like in all Little Garden.

Not like human-like gods and Buddhas—only slightly stronger than humans, with no less desire.

Yahweh was a true god without desire or selfishness.

The only thing driving his actions was his followers’ wishes—but with many diverse followers, no one understood his logic.

Even now, the Halloween Queen still couldn’t grasp why Yahweh suddenly incarnated as Dystopia.

“I don’t know. Yahweh didn’t tell me the reason. Maybe Jesus knew, but Jesus…”

Maria shook her head. In Christianity, her role was almost decorative. Her angels handled everything well.

“Is that so?”

The Halloween Queen looked at Maria, staring briefly, then lost interest.

“Fine—I thought I could squeeze something out of it.”

Hearing this, Maria also felt relieved.

Though she didn’t understand the other’s thoughts—now the Halloween Queen resembled her former self, meaning a higher chance of agreement.

But what price to satisfy her?

At this moment, the Halloween Queen suddenly said,

“However, since I lost a knight who at his limit could defeat a Two-Digit existence, so…”

Maria’s brows twitched hearing this, unconsciously staring.

Then, the golden Halloween Queen parted her red lips and said,

“I want Christianity’s Holy Spirit Spirit Status.”

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—three Spirit Statuses split from the Monotheistic God.

Each had potential to become Two-Digit—like the Holy Son.

No—the Father couldn’t; Little Garden’s Central Core forbade Monotheism.

But the Holy Son and Holy Spirit had no such limit. With Christianity’s scale, there should be more than one Two-Digit.

The Holy Spirit Spirit Status—or Holy Mother Spirit Status—should have long accumulated enough merits to break into Two-Digit.

“Since you caused me to lose a knight, compensate with one Two-Digit existence.”

The Halloween Queen propped her chin with both hands, smiling at Maria.

She didn’t feel Aslan was unworthy of the price—nor that she asked too much.

(After all, if Christianity doesn’t give it, I can take it myself—and the result won’t differ much.)

(I have this justification—no other existence has the right to stop me.)

Maria smiled helplessly—a heavy stone slowly lifting from her heart, feeling relieved.

“If this satisfies you, that would be excellent.”

Maria didn’t care much about the Holy Spirit Spirit Status. If she intended Two-Digit, she’d have been one long ago via merit accumulation.

But she remembered Yahweh’s warning—not to approach the Monotheistic God’s Spirit Status.

She didn’t become Two-Digit—instead sealing the Holy Spirit Spirit Status. Jesus was the same. Even with realized truth, he chose not to become Two-Digit.

She just hadn’t expected it seized by Judas.

“Hmm?”

This time, the Halloween Queen was surprised.

A Two-Digit-level Spirit Status—just given away? Given so easily, she began suspecting a trap.

“However, if the Queen wants to use this to surpass the Sun Star Spirit and become Two-Digit—better not use the Holy Spirit Spirit Status to become Two-Digit.”

Maria paused here, saying with slight hesitation,

“This is something Yahweh once warned about.”

Hearing this, the Halloween Queen couldn’t help frowning.

(Is Yahweh your husband? Why do you listen to everything he says?)

(He really seems like your cheap husband.)

But Maria’s words made her waver. The Sun Star Spirit position was blocked by Shiroyasha.

Unless Shiroyasha restored her Original Star Spirit Status, she’d always be stuck as Two-Digit.

But getting Shiroyasha to restore her Original Star Spirit Status seemed impossible. She knew how deeply entangled the issue was.


-

Title: Then, I Want You to Help Aslan Become King of the End

“Then, this price is still not enough.”

The Halloween Queen showed a troubled expression, propping her head, tilting it.

Seeing this, Maria’s face changed slightly, and she sighed helplessly.

She closed her eyes as if having made a certain decision.

Weak nations have no diplomacy—this saying also applied in Little Garden, only needing a slight modification.

Modified to: the weak have no right to choose.

Now, after the Holy Son’s fall, no matter how vast Christianity’s remaining power—in front of the Halloween Queen, they were just a big fish ready for slaughter.

The consequence of having resources and influence but lacking sufficient combat power was Zoroastrianism’s bloody lesson.

This happened on the basis that Zoroastrianism’s Good Mother Goddess sacrificed herself so the Pantheon could exist in Little Garden and stand on the side of good.

Little Garden’s first era had four pillars: Good, Evil, Human, and God.

Good and Evil established Little Garden’s worldview based on dualism, setting the basic tone for Little Garden to observe and intervene in human history, guiding it toward good and transcending evil.

The 【Good】 pillar was created by the Good Mother Goddess sacrificing herself—and at the same time, she staked the future that justice would surely triumph for Little Garden and human history.

The Evil Mother Goddess also sacrificed herself for Little Garden, bearing all sins, ultimately creating Absolute Evil—to facilitate Little Garden transcending the Last Trial of Mankind.

Zoroastrianism could be said to have fully devoted itself to Little Garden—but what was Zoroastrianism’s situation now?

Besides Indra, how many were still active in Little Garden?

Their former foundational base had long been divided up.

Current Little Garden was no longer an era of sacrifice—but a bloody jungle law: if you eat more, I eat less.

Currently, Christianity’s plate was far larger than Zoroastrianism’s past. Without the Halloween Queen’s forgiveness—countless old folks would use her justification to carve off some fat chunks of Christianity.

Especially since Christianity still had God’s Second Child—this even gave legal basis to some.

“Then, what additional price do you want from us?”

Maria opened her blue eyes, staring firmly.

She hoped this carefree Halloween Queen wouldn’t demand too painful terms.

Maria sighed inwardly. If just resources—it would be great if wealthy Christianity could satisfy the Halloween Queen by spending a little.

Seeing Maria’s resigned face, the Halloween Queen smiled brightly now.

“Relax—it’s not an unacceptable price.”

She said, narrowing her eyes, staring at Maria.

“After all, not much in your Christianity is useful to me.”

Maria’s mouth corner twitched. For some reason, her worry increased.

(Actually, there are several treasures in Christianity’s vault useful for your level.)

Maria sighed helplessly.

“Then Queen, please say it. As long as Christianity can do it, we’ll strive our best.”

“Then, I want you to help Aslan become King of the End.”

The Halloween Queen stared with an expression as if her plan had finally succeeded.

Maria’s expression froze, and she fell silent, speechless.

(What? You want Christianity to support Aslan—one of the culprits behind the Holy Son’s fall—to become King of the End?)

(Queen, are you serious?)

(We’re already good not causing trouble for Aslan—and now you want us to support him?)

The Halloween Queen said nothing, only smiling at Maria.

She didn’t speak, nor use any power.

But that gaze alone gave Maria unimaginable pressure.

Instantly, Maria realized. She realized she had no right to choose.

The only thing Christianity must do now was satisfy the other side by any means.

“Fine, Queen—we will support Aslan to become King of the End.”

Maria bowed her head slightly, clenching her fists tightly—even as nails dug into flesh, she felt no pain.

Seeing her like that, the Halloween Queen snorted softly, clearly very satisfied with Maria’s attitude.

“After all, you made me lose my favorite knight—so I hope Aslan can become my new knight.”

She slightly raised her chin, looking down.

“You understand my meaning?”

“Understood, Queen.”

Maria bowed deeper.

Only now did she understand—in Little Garden, the weak had no human rights. Christianity—called a super-large Pantheon at Little Garden’s peak.

After losing a Two-Digit pillar like the Holy Son—became a toy the Halloween Queen could play with.

Even Greece still had Father God Zeus who could unleash Two-Digit power at his limit.

(Oh God, when will You return?)

And at this moment, the Halloween Queen suddenly said,

“However, useless things to me—don’t need sending to me.”

Maria’s heart jolted hearing this, and she couldn’t help looking up.

Then, the golden Halloween Queen lightly waved her hand—a thin water curtain appeared in the air, showing photos of Aslan and Shiroyasha.

Under Maria’s gaze, the Halloween Queen laughed.

“You know them, right?”

“White Night Demon Lord and her subordinate god—and current Arcadia leader, Aslan.”

Maria’s heart pounded—a bad premonition rising.

And now, the Halloween Queen propped her chin with both hands, smiling at Maria.

“I want you to give the Holy Spirit Spirit Status to him.”

These soft words made Maria’s heart sink.

Right then, the Halloween Queen laughed.

“Hmm, remember to give it in front of Shiroyasha—and say it’s from me.”

(Hehe, since Shiroyasha used Aslan to upset me—saying my Arthur is dead, don’t look for Aslan anymore—even ordering Scathach to prepare a funeral and hold a memorial.)

(If only Shiroyasha hadn’t summoned Aslan—she’d still save a little face.)

(Otherwise, my revenge wouldn’t be this simple.)

(I, the Halloween Queen, am Little Garden’s most carefree Queen.)

(I’ll make that poor Shiroyasha know what a true Queen is. No future following Shiroyasha.)

Hearing this, Maria fell silent.

Though respectful on the surface—inwardly she had cursed the Halloween Queen thousands of times.

(This Queen’s dirty trick is too evil—is this the power of a widow whose husband died?)

(Not only evil to Christianity—but also to Shiroyasha.)

But she had no right to refuse—so she could only curse the Halloween Queen inwardly.

A Problem Child like the Halloween Queen should have her butt spanked by her mother.

Then, the Halloween Queen glanced at Maria with a mysterious smile.

Maria’s heart pounded—could her inner curses against the Halloween Queen be discovered?

Shouldn’t be? She had covered it with authority.

The Halloween Queen chuckled and said,

“Fine—withdraw. I hope you make a decision that satisfies me.”

(What does that mean? What decision to satisfy her?)

With questions in mind, Maria sighed, turned, and left the courtyard.

After Maria left, the Halloween Queen—sitting before the stone table—propped her head with one hand, saying lazily.

“Scathach, what do you think if I let Faceless inherit Mordred’s Spirit Status?”

Scathach beside her changed expression hearing this. If possible, she wanted to go deaf.

(Queen, don’t you feel something wrong with yourself right now? Do you really want to become Morgan?)

(As expected—the lowest probability became reality. The Queen might really have fallen in love.)

Scathach sighed inwardly.

(The Queen wants me to help get Aslan—but the point is I’ve never been in love either. And Queen, did you forget—you already gifted me to him?)

But anyway—this was the Halloween Queen’s order. Facing it, Scathach could only bow and answer.

“Your Majesty the Queen, this subordinate feels it’s better not to. It could cause unnecessary rift between you and him.”

“Besides, the rebel Mordred isn’t a good symbol.”

“Is that so?”

The Halloween Queen paused, thinking Arthur was dead—indeed no more use.

Current focus was finding ways to boost Aslan’s power—at least to Three-Digit.

“Indeed no need.”

Scathach immediately felt relieved. Could she say there was a slight issue in her education—causing Faceless to develop strange feelings for Aslan?

If Faceless really became Aslan’s child—this would be a huge mess.

Teenagers were hard to manage.

Was it just because she slightly mentioned Aslan’s achievements—to that extent?

“I want to be his eternal and only sun—so you be his shadow first!”

The Halloween Queen smiled, as if seeing through Scathach’s thoughts.

“Hah?”

Scathach showed a confused expression. What did it mean to be Aslan’s shadow?

The Halloween Queen smiled, uttering very carefree words.

“After all, he’s a Creator God—and creating worlds needs various basic structures—so you be all his shadows first.”

This went in Scathach’s left ear and out the right. She only heard “guinea pig” in the sentence.

So, besides serving as knight, maid, assistant, head maid, the Halloween Queen’s guardian—she also had to serve as marriage trial guinea pig?

(You want to be the sun for all worlds he’ll create in the future—but don’t know the conditions—you could just ask directly.)

(Why must I be the guinea pig?)

(Is this to hide from Shiroyasha?)

For some reason, Scathach’s gaze toward the Halloween Queen held slight pity.

(Somehow, she seems to see a loser dog aura.)

(White Night Demon Lord is indeed your lifelong enemy.)

Scathach looked grim, annoyed yet resigned at the Halloween Queen—and finally surrendered under the other’s smiling gaze.

“Fine, Your Majesty the Queen.”

-

Title: Jolted Awake from Near-Death Pain, Turns Out I’m the Only God

“What does Halloween mean by this?”

In Arcadia’s living room, Aslan stared at the Holy Spirit Spirit Status on the table, lost in thought.

Early morning, Saint Jeanne d’Arc led a large squad of angels escorting this item to Arcadia.

In front of Shiroyasha, she explained it was compensation sent by Christianity—the Holy Spirit Spirit Status—a gift from the Halloween Queen.

Afterward, Shiroyasha angrily stormed off to settle scores with the Halloween Queen. It was almost openly declaring the other side wanted to snatch her subordinate god.

As a result, now only Aslan, Algol, Athena, and Scathach—representing the Halloween Queen’s will—remained.

“Suddenly giving me the Holy Spirit Spirit Status?”

Aslan scratched his head in confusion.

Wasn’t a Spirit Status like this—capable of reaching Two-Digit just by digesting and absorbing it—more beneficial used personally?

If the Halloween Queen wanted, she could find some lucky person and create a new Judas.

It must be admitted—super-large Pantheons like Christianity truly had deep foundations. Who would’ve thought the reason Christianity only had one Two-Digit existence was because they didn’t want a second?

“This attitude from the Halloween Queen makes me a bit scared to use it.”

Hearing that, Algol couldn’t help rolling her eyes at Aslan.

A Two-Digit Spirit Status many dreamed of was now delivered to his hands—yet Aslan complained.

“If you don’t want it, give it to Algol?”

“Hmm, it’s for you.”

Aslan glanced at Algol and without hesitation tossed it to her.

This time, Algol was shocked. She secretly eyed it and said somewhat surprised,

“You’re really giving it.”

Then, Algol lowered her head to examine this Holy Spirit Spirit Status. Various thoughts swirled in her mind.

This Spirit Status was the original reason she switched from the Babylonian Pantheon to Christianity. Jesus in the past used this promise to lure her.

Back then, she challenged gods and Buddhas across the Three Thousand Worlds, spreading countless Demons and dangerous beings—just to become Two-Digit.

Now the opportunity was in her arms. Whether absorbed or transformed into Demon Spirit Status—it could push her a step further.

After a long while, Algol sighed, returning the Holy Spirit Spirit Status to Aslan. Seeing his indifferent face, she couldn’t help spitting,

“Playing touching scenes in front of me—aren’t you afraid I’d take it and not return it?”

She had almost been unable to hold back. This was nearly a guaranteed chance to become Two-Digit.

But ultimately, she decided to reach Two-Digit her own way. She wanted to achieve her path herself. Only after hitting a dead end would she consider others.

“It’s not an important item. If you like it, take it.”

Aslan smiled, playing with the Holy Spirit Spirit Status in his hand.

Just one Two-Digit existence—sounded important, but really just that.

At least Aslan didn’t care. Compared to the Holy Spirit Spirit Status, he was more worried why Christianity didn’t use this Spirit Status.

He feared another trap inside.

Athena and Scathach beside them watched Aslan and Algol’s interaction—their mouth corners twitching.

At least they couldn’t imagine why Aslan was so generous—but they felt a bit of unwarranted jealousy over Algol’s treatment.

Truly enviable—a Two-Digit Spirit Status just given away.

But the next second, they no longer felt jealous.

After all, Aslan was also their man.

Then it was fine.

At that moment, Athena suddenly said,

“Could the Halloween Queen be planning to make you the Only God?”

Hearing this, the atmosphere immediately turned serious.

Scathach felt several scrutinizing gazes on her.

She raised both hands without hesitation, showing she posed no threat.

“I don’t know either—Her Majesty the Queen only asked me to deliver it.”

By the way, seduce Aslan in bed and see if she could become all shadows when Aslan creates worlds in the future.

Of course, she couldn’t say the last part. If the Halloween Queen’s plan was exposed—her fate was unknown.

“The Only God… That’s not an easy path.”

Athena sighed, staring very seriously at Aslan.

“I strongly advise against taking the Only God path if your path is already clear.”

“Even if your completion rate is very high—even right before your eyes.”

The Holy Son Spirit Status was now in Aslan’s hands—though still somewhat incomplete—and the Holy Spirit Spirit Status was very complete.

The omniscient and omnipotent Only God in the Trinity—two-thirds now completed in Aslan’s hands.

Thinking this, Athena was also slightly stunned and incredulous.

Something many gods and Buddhas desperately pursued—was so easily completed by Aslan.

Next, Aslan only needed the Father Spirit Status—then he could launch an assault toward Single-Digit.

With Yahweh vanished—if Aslan truly wanted the Father Spirit Status, the difficulty wouldn’t be too high.

It could even be said to be easy.

People really couldn’t be compared. Even Athena—staring at Aslan now—couldn’t help feeling jealous.

To her, current Aslan wasn’t much different from Shiroyasha.

Though she also knew this was all the result of Aslan’s own “struggles.”

Just thinking about it made her more annoyed.

She risked everything and gathered power for tens of thousands of years—just for one chance to break into Two-Digit—and that chance was given by Aslan.

Aslan had been in Little Garden mere months—and a Single-Digit chance was before his eyes.

Even online novels out there weren’t as bizarre as Aslan’s experiences, right?

Athena couldn’t help grumbling inwardly.

“Of course I know.”

Aslan shrugged casually. He had zero interest in the omniscient and omnipotent Only God path.

If he were truly omniscient and omnipotent—what was the point of living? Of course, more importantly—Aslan knew this path had zero feasibility.

Besides, his essence wasn’t lower than Little Garden’s Central Core. If he weren’t too young now—maybe he’d be rated Single-Digit from birth?

Perhaps so.

“Forget it—since I don’t understand the Halloween Queen’s thoughts, just store this thing and use it when needed later.”

Aslan decided. At least for now—he didn’t feel their side lacked combat power.

Shiroyasha, Halloween Queen—two existences arguably strong among Two-Digits.

Algol, Athena—two soon-to-be Two-Digits.

And himself, King of the End. Though Arthur’s Spirit Status was destroyed—it didn’t stop him from unleashing the Star Holy Sword and firing beams.

He could also be considered half Two-Digit.

Enough to sweep Little Garden clean.

“By the way, Algol—there shouldn’t be issues recruiting the Hell faction, right?”

Aslan was slightly curious. Though Algol had escaped her seal and regained part of her lost Spirit Status.

Current Algol could be called top Three-Digit—but still far from when she challenged gods and Buddhas across Three Thousand Worlds.

Christianity’s Hell Devil system was originally built by Algol. It wasn’t an exaggeration to say she was the supreme god of devils.

But devils were still devils. Algol had also been sealed for years. Hard to say if those devils would obey her.

“Those ugly things—not only ugly, but filthy-minded too.”

Algol said with extreme disgust.

She had gone to Hell, reclaimed the Original Demon Lilith Spirit Status, and taught Baphomet and other devils a lesson.

The recruitment process could be said to be decent.

But Aslan still heard Algol’s hidden meaning. Those devils ultimately only submitted outwardly but rebelled inwardly.

After all, Algol hadn’t subdued them with absolute power.

Though strong—she was still far from her peak—and ultimately not respected enough.

In this situation, she secured the Devil King position—but beneath her were certainly covert disobediences.

But devils’ nature was like that—unless you held their weak points and made them truly submit.

“By the way—you’ve surely sold the Demon Star I created, right?”

Algol’s mouth corner curved into an evil smile. Wearing loose clothes, she jumped into Aslan’s arms.

Athena beside them was already used to this.

Algol had even invited her for hotter play—let alone just hugging.

“Of course.”

Aslan nodded. In his mind surfaced memories of robed monks handing him Buddha Bones with pained faces.

“Those monks were quite stingy—just one Authority?”

Thinking this, Aslan couldn’t help complaining.

Just one Authority—why show expressions as painful as having their flesh sliced?

“Compared to losing an Authority—they’d prefer you slice their flesh.”

Algol also said with slight schadenfreude. Those bald Buddhist monks had disgusted her since the Dawn Era.

“By the way—one Authority also made them bleed. Good job.”

Right then, Algol’s movements suddenly stopped. After a strange light flashed in her purple eyes.

She gently kissed Aslan’s cheek.

“Those bald monks started divining Ai-chan’s location. Watch—this time Ai-chan won’t let them escape.”

Saying that, Algol’s figure gradually faded. She had to go out and show herself to dispel suspicions about Aslan.

After all—their side’s combat power was still disadvantaged against Darkness Gods and others—so they must keep hiding.

Aslan stroked the spot Algol just kissed and smiled helplessly.

On the other side—five True Three-Digit Buddhas divining Algol screamed in pain.

-

Title: True Buddhas? I Think They’re More Like Mara

While enjoying the service gained from turning five Three-Digit True Buddhas into Mara (demons), Algol hummed cheerfully as she strolled through the streets of the City of Flowers.

After not seeing the streets for so long, Algol observed the various passersby around her while chatting happily with someone.

“Buddhism really lacks everything except a bunch of ugly creatures.”

“Hey, don’t get it wrong—even after Ai-chan turns them into demons, they can still pretend to be Buddhas.”

“Yeah, don’t worry about Ai-chan. What can those ugly things do to Ai-chan?”

“On the contrary, you should be more careful over there.”

“Honestly, making them fall one by one is kinda slow. Next time, let’s just do a mythology overhaul.”

After whispering with Aslan for a while, Algol stopped at an intersection, staring across the street.

Across the road, five monks in deep red robes with twelve burn scars on their heads stood upright, silently chanting sutras, glaring sharply at Algol.

Seeing this, Algol’s mouth corner lifted, revealing a clown-like mad laugh.

She raised her hand and waved.

“Hey, baldies.”

Facing Algol’s taunt, the monks across the street didn’t react.

“Hah, a bunch of trash—even don’t know how to argue back.”

Algol laughed mockingly. She wasn’t worried at all facing the encirclement of these monks.

If it were a strong Almighty Domain from another Pantheon, she might have some trouble.

After all, performance in Little Garden’s Lower Layers had an upper limit. When power was truly capped, numbers had absolute advantage.

In the Upper Layers, easy. Algol could confidently beat them with one hand—but in the Lower Layers, not necessarily.

Of course, this referred to other Pantheons—not Buddhism. Buddhism was calculated differently.

Current Algol could confidently call herself Buddha’s Enemy. Any Buddha daring to oppose her would face the Inner Demon Trial.

Fail the trial—and they’d fall into demons (Mara).

If they’d become demons—didn’t that mean they were under Algol’s control range?

As Algol’s words fell, a white-haired robed monk across stepped forward, clasping hands.

“Amitabha, Your Excellency Algol—we mean no enmity. We came only for one thing: please sign the Campione War treaty.”

“Then we’ll leave on our own.”

“Hoh~ Your words sound better than chanting.”

Algol dug her ear, saying in disgust.

“Since you’re so sincere…”

She deliberately dragged her tone, seeing hidden joy in the monks’ eyes—then suddenly turned.

“Then swear before Shaka—if I sign the Campione treaty and any Buddhist attacks me, you’re willing to fall into demons? How about it?”

“Arrogant demon!”

Behind the old monk, a young-faced monk slammed his staff into the ground.

“Lowly heresy—worthy of swearing before Buddha?”

Algol raised an eyebrow, couldn’t help laughing.

“Hoh, good! Another Buddha disciple who’s entered my Demon Gate.”

“No—this isn’t my Demon Gate; more like Mara’s disciple.”

But mentioning Mara—a cold glint flashed in Algol’s eyes.

(Hah, just a clown who got part of my Spirit Status in the past. Sooner or later, I’ll take it back.)

Hearing that, two more monks showed angry faces.

“Insolent devil—dare twist our identity as Buddha disciples?”

Algol glanced down at them, shaking her head helplessly.

“Aduh, really. Is our Demon Gate disciple identity so shameful? Must cover it with golden bodies.”

As Algol said this, the young monk’s face changed instantly. He showed an enraged Wisdom King expression as if hurt—nearly pulling out an artifact to fight Algol.

“Amitabha—why must the benefactor insult us like this?”

The old monk showed a bitter face looking at Algol.

He naturally knew his disciples had fallen to the demon path—and the culprit was the figure before him. Precisely from trying to divine Algol’s location—they were countered by Algol, Inner Demons entering their bodies.

If not for years-built golden bodies’ effect—they’d have been purged by Buddhism long ago.

Though Buddhism protected disciples—it only applied if they were still Buddhas.

“Benefactor—how about we fight here?”

The old monk closed his eyes, not daring to look directly at Algol. He feared triggering his Inner Demon again.

“Master!!”

“Master—why speak to this heretic demon?”

“Grandmaster—let us subdue the demon directly!”

“Great Heaven Dragon!”

“Luo Dharma Staff!”

Seeing one palm and one staff smashing toward her, Algol blew the hair on her forehead.

Instantly, extremely fine cracks appeared on the mountain-splitting Luo Dharma Staff and the brightly shining Buddha-light Great Heaven Dragon’s outer skin.

From the cracks—faintly visible were countless vengeful spirits and dry bones, intertwined with boundless hatred.

“Hoh, good! Tibetan Buddhism? Why hasn’t Yang Jian and the Heavenly Army wiped it out yet?”

Algol raised an eyebrow in surprise. Though she considered herself Demon Lord, Demon Star—Tibetan Buddhism’s Buddha artifact forging methods exceeded her imagination and understanding.

Existences like this—were they Buddhas given Buddha Spirit Status by Little Garden’s Central Core?

“Heretic demon—don’t slander here!”

“Haha, angry.”

Algol showed a Jerry-like mocking expression, clenching four fingers, pointing her thumb at the clearly enraged monk.

“Why not continue the attack—smash! See what’s faster—your golden bodies crumbling? Or this granny’s head smashed by you?”

Algol sneered, revealing vertical golden snake-like pupils.

“Clearly a bunch of Mara—still pretending to be True Buddhas. Don’t make this granny laugh her head off. If you want to fight—fight! If you want to attack—attack! Show Demon Gate disciples’ courage!”

“Buddhism must not be insulted. This monk advises Your Excellency to be careful.”

The white-haired old monk pulled out his staff and slammed it hard into the ground.

“Then come! Let’s see who represents Buddhism.”

Hearing that, Algol showed a terrifying smile.

Instantly, the entire outer layer was shrouded in thick poisonous fog.

“Careful of the poison fog.”

The old monk had just shouted—the next second, he vomited black blood.

“Bunch of fools—even didn’t notice I’ve been poisoning all along. Even Demon Gate is disgusted by you.”

Algol opened her Petrification Mystic Eyes, saying annoyedly.

“You’ve made me very angry!”

The young monk couldn’t hold back. His figure flashed, revealing Buddha Golden Body.

The next second—a ten-thousand-meter golden Buddha appeared from thin air, boldly swinging its Golden Dragon right arm, smashing angrily at Algol.

“Senior brother—I’ll help you!”

Accompanied by another shout—an eight-armed Wisdom King suddenly appeared, joining the previous Coiling Dragon Buddha to attack Algol.

Instantly—this outer layer, with millions of square kilometers of land—was shrouded and carved by black smoke and Buddha light, crisscrossing and clashing.

At the same time, gazes from the heavenly world descended, staring at this Lower Layer battlefield.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“It’s started, huh.”

In the courtyard of Thousand Eyes headquarters at outer layer 3345.

Aslan held a cup of hot tea, sitting on the corridor edge, looking at the battlefield separated by many dimensions.

Beside him, Shiroyasha—body shrunk to a tiny girl—scratched her leg, annoyedly drinking otaku-favorite soda.

For some reason, there was a two-person gap between her and Aslan.

Their emotions had finally subsided.

“Letting that stinky flirt cause such a ruckus—aren’t you afraid you’ll get dragged in?”

Aslan yawned.

“Dragged in? They should hope I really have nothing to do with Algol.”

“When suspected of having weapons of mass destruction—better to actually have them.”

“They won’t dare investigate too deeply.”

“Oh? Interesting—tell me.”

Shiroyasha crawled three steps to Aslan’s side, perking her ears curiously.

“Don’t you see they don’t even dare attack seriously now?”

Aslan pointed to the battlefield beyond many dimensional gates.

Though Algol and the monks’ fight looked spectacular—besides spectacular, it was just noise.

The monks didn’t dare use full power at all—fearing full power would corrode their golden bodies with Inner Demon poison.

Shiroyasha opened her big eyes, glancing strangely at Aslan and Algol, saying speechlessly.

“You’re doing this—aren’t you afraid the Great Monk will blame?”

“True—if the Great Monk really blamed, Vajra would’ve already fallen on that stinky flirt’s head. Now, seems the Great Monk allows it.”

“Really—not even telling me about such a big issue. I could’ve extorted… ah no, negotiated a bit.”

“A few days ago, I just seized a batch of good materials for building golden bodies from the former Ouroboros warehouse.”

“Seems the Great Monk also wants to see—among billions of Buddhism Buddhas—how many True Buddhas have enlightenment?”

Aslan didn’t speak—because that was indeed the case. Their so-called little tricks weren’t too conspicuous in the World Honored One’s eyes.

After all, the Truth He held was 【Karma】. Aslan didn’t think anything could be hidden from Him.

He might’ve been caught since the Type-Moon world.

But since allowed—don’t blame him for being impolite. Just pretend the Great Monk didn’t exist.

Gaining benefits from opportunities was a quality a qualified problem child must have.

Aslan wanted to confirm his limit in causing trouble. He always felt the Great Monk was too soft on him.

That way, he could feel a bit more at ease causing trouble.

Aslan slightly shook his head—after self-mocking, he showed a confident expression.

“Athena’s meddling too?”

-

Title: Good News for You All, Angra Mainyu Never Left

“This? Athena’s meddling too?”

Shiroyasha’s gaze toward the battlefield seemed to catch something—she immediately stood up, face shocked.

“Weren’t Athena and Algol already reconciled? Why are they fighting again now?”

Shiroyasha shook her head in confusion, tone slightly surprised.

Athena’s appearance was truly beyond her expectations. Just last night, they were still good “bedmates.”

Hearing that, Aslan awkwardly rubbed his nose, not daring to look at the battlefield.

Could he say that last night, Athena was forced? After all, Athena was the Goddess of Victory—she had her pride.

Sharing a husband with someone else was clearly impossible—especially with Algol.

But Algol always had that Problem Child nature, fearing a peaceful world. Anything Athena disliked, she’d definitely tease once or twice.

Especially last night—Algol even used her unformed Truth to ignite Athena’s desires, making her show an embarrassing expression.

This morning, Athena didn’t even give Aslan a good glance.

Seeing Victory Authority and Demon Aura intertwining, neutralizing, and exploding—turning millions of square kilometers into ruins.

“And they’re fighting for real? How long has it been since Athena attacked at full power like this?”

Watching the fierce battle, Shiroyasha couldn’t help glancing at Aslan—intentionally or not, her gaze lingered briefly on Aslan’s lower body.

“Are you two really broken up? Shouldn’t be? Could the sharing be uneven?”

Instantly, Aslan’s face flushed. As a veteran, he knew exactly what Shiroyasha meant.

“Keep your distance—they just want to settle who’s stronger between them.”

Aslan pushed Shiroyasha’s head, redirecting her gaze to the battlefield.

Though Algol and Athena had reconciled—how could millennia of grudge vanish easily?

Though they restrained themselves before Aslan—they had to fight all-out once to vent past resentment.

Plus, they didn’t want to trouble Aslan. So this chance—with the Campione War and Algol stepping out to trigger a Historical Transition Period in the outer world—was the best opportunity.

It could also reduce suspicions toward Aslan and the gods’ scrutiny of Athena.

After all—as the renowned Goddess of Victory with the Trinity Athena path—her Campione War win rate was too high.

Especially cooperating with Aslan.

One was Little Garden’s current strongest spatial ability user with high mobility; the other—the unbeatable Goddess of Victory in combat since the Dawn Era.

If their relationship with Algol was too good—it would provoke some existences’ nerves.

After all—Medusa Spirit Status wasn’t an absolute necessity for Algol. If interests shifted midway…

It would keep them awake at night.

“But even so—they might not sleep well for days, right?”

Seeing countless spiritual bodies monitoring Athena and Algol’s battlefield in the void, Shiroyasha sneered.

“If they knew Algol and Athena had long been cooperating—I don’t know how furious they’d be.”

Suddenly, she felt a bit excited.

“I really don’t know how much I could get selling this info.”

“Enough—you’ve earned so much already, boss. Time to stop.”

Aslan rolled his eyes at Shiroyasha. Was she that poor?

Just a few dozen Authorities, thousands of Special Authorities—and enough foundation to build a mid-tier Pantheon anytime.

Shiroyasha sheepishly wiped her drool.

The main thing was—she hadn’t been this rich in years. Note that in the Dawn Era, she was called the White Poor Ghost.

Even the ‘White’ (Shiro) in Shiroyasha came from ‘free’ (Shirakeru).

“If you keep selling—you’ll get caught.”

Aslan yawned, pulling his gaze from the battlefield.

Then he narrowed his eyes, focusing on the temporarily absorbed Truth 【Miracle】 in his body.

【Miracle】 truly deserved the name.

The void positioning issue that had long troubled Aslan could now be solved with directed travel in a sense thanks to 【Miracle】.

And 【Miracle】 had also shown him how to awaken Dystopia.

Namely—in that world: High School DxD.

After settling recent matters—he could find a chance to go there.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

About half a teacup later.

The black clouds that previously covered the sky—nearly shrouding half the outer layer—had vanished, only covering half the heavens.

In the sky—three thousand purple hairs turned into countless demon snakes. Algol with golden snake eyes touched the spear-gouged wound on her body.

She stared at the majestic Victory Goddess status before her.

“You ugly woman—you hid it so deep. Looks like your Spirit Status isn’t far from complete either.”

Algol grinned, showing a successful scheme smile.

Meanwhile, Athena’s face looked normal—but those who knew her could see her spear-holding hand tightening slightly.

She still seemed about to rage.

“But ugly woman—don’t think you can easily get Medusa Spirit Status this way.”

“You’re ugly—but your dreams are pretty.”

“Hah—I don’t think my dreams are pretty.”

Athena looked at Algol with a faint smile, proudly raising her head.

“Algol—you’ve failed.”

Hearing that, Algol’s expression suddenly changed. The next second—a scythe carrying thick death aura thinly grazed her neck.

Nearly decapitating her again.

Instantly, Algol’s expression truly darkened.

“You all~ dare scratch Algol’s pretty face?”

Three thousand snake hairs danced, spewing countless poison fog again. Even Hades—who drank antidote earlier—could barely withstand.

After swinging the scythe—he no longer had strength to fight.

But seeing the twelve Greek Main Gods gradually encircling her—Algol wasn’t angry.

“Ugly women are ugly women—don’t dare one-on-one with Algol?”

Athena said nothing. The Main Gods were already impatient to move.

Encircling by twelve gods—even Algol had to evade.

Seeing the twelve gods around her—Algol sneered, looking around, meeting lurking gazes.

Then—a white card appeared in her hand.

“Congrats—you win this time. You successfully drove me out.”

Algol’s mouth corner slightly curved—she snapped the card, invisible space-time enveloping her.

“But before I go—I can give you good news.”

Algol’s eyes filled with deep hatred.

“That is—Angra Mainyu never left. He’s always watching you.”

“One day—we’ll return and drag those exalted gods from their thrones.”

Hearing that—countless gods and Buddhas showed terrified expressions. It was the most evil Last Trial of Mankind—capable of wounding Indra before maturity.

Moreover—the other side had mass destruction weapons like Another Cosmology Avesta.

“Wait, Algol—actually we can negotiate…”

A dignified voice full of worry and slight panic sounded—tone filled with fear.

A Last Trial of Mankind combining Absolute Evil and Kali Yuga—with great hatred toward gods.

How to transcend this? Little Garden had no other Origin Candidate.

Last time—they relied on Aslan to kill and exile it—but a second time clearly wouldn’t work.

Almost instantly—the gods attacked simultaneously, preparing to shatter space-time and capture Algol.

Hearing that—before the gods’ attacks arrived, Algol suddenly laughed maniacally.

She even laughed to tears.

“No—you panic just over this? Panic just at this level?”

“This is too pathetic, right? I hope you’ll like the surprise we prepared!”

Algol said—joy nearly overflowing from her heart, radiating on the surface, in her smile—a mocking grin.

“Then—please, everyone look forward to the first gift we prepared for you.”

Words fallen—Algol’s figure truly vanished from Little Garden.

Leaving only pale-faced gods and Buddhas in the void dimension.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

*SMACK!*

A folding fan struck Aslan’s head. Shiroyasha narrowed her eyes, staring at Aslan oddly.

“You’re too messy, huh?”

Aslan beside her said nothing—just kept holding his tea, slowly sipping.

“Why reveal Angra Mainyu this early? He hasn’t grown yet, right?”

Only months since Angra Mainyu’s exile and Azi Dahaka’s sealing.

If he jumped out now—the first targeted would be Aslan.

“Compared to awakening Dystopia—we need to create big chaos to cover it, right?”

Aslan sipped his tea, saying flatly.

No one could predict what chaos would erupt in Little Garden after Dystopia’s return—or what reactions.

Whether gods had surveillance artifacts targeting Dystopia…

Even Athena couldn’t predict.

So what Aslan could do now was try creating massive chaos to draw attention before awakening Dystopia.

After all—gods’ concern in Little Garden for Dystopia surely exceeded Angra Mainyu.

Because Dystopia truly hurt them. They remembered Dystopia’s lesson.

Note that in the original story—just Absolute Evil’s emergence made over half the gods and Buddhas terrified—preparing a new Little Garden.

If Dystopia awakened—who knew how panicked they’d be.