Chapter 196: A Dance With Monsters (8)

Previously

Willow seized the opening. "And yet, you lost to that 'flower,' didn't you?" He couldn't help but challenge the Sage's assumption. If he could deflect the conversation, divert it away from his own secrets, perhaps he could gain the upper hand.

The Sage's face broke into a smile, a genuine one that softened his features. His Sei, which had been poised for action, retreated, and the oppressive atmosphere lifted. He sheathed his bamboo blade with a fluid motion, and his aura transformed into one of amusement.

"I apologize," the Sage began, his voice carrying a conciliatory tone. "Perhaps, it was wrong of me to generalize you from your previous incarnation's actions."

Willow breathed a sigh of relief, though he remained cautious. The Sage's demeanor had shifted once more, and now he asked a different question, one that cut to the core of Willow's existence.

"Let me ask a different question then, oh mighty Maiden," the Sage continued, his tone lighter. "What need was there for someone to fight against their fate like you do?"

***

Willow's mind, a labyrinth of thoughts and reflections, delved into the depths of his own journey. The question posed by the Sage had sparked a contemplation that danced at the edges of his consciousness, pulling him into its embrace.

He remembered the inception of his grand plan, hatched in the nascent days of his existence within this fantastical world. His initial aim had been straightforward: accumulate wealth beyond imagination, wielding it as a key to unlock the treasures of this realm. With his knowledge of the game's intricate plot, he had envisioned himself as a puppeteer, manipulating events from the shadows while ensconced in opulence.

But as he embarked on his path, a path entwined with the destiny of the Maiden, he encountered trials and challenges that shattered the illusions of his native dream. The confrontation with the Demon God in his own hometown had been a turning point, a crucible that revealed the harsh reality he faced. No matter how much he wished to remain aloof, the world itself conspired to thrust him into the forefront of conflict.

His previous plan, the idyllic retirement on the outskirts of turmoil, had crumbled like fragile parchment in the face of the Demon God's relentless assault. It became abundantly clear that his existence as Willow, the Maiden, was inextricably linked to peril. Escape was a mirage, a tantalizing vision forever out of reach.

So, he adapted, morphing his ambitions into a new form. The ember of resistance ignited within him, a fierce determination to confront the darkness that lurked at the heart of his world. He aspired to become a force capable of withstanding the malevolent influence of the Demon God, a bastion of strength in a realm besieged by chaos.

Yet, even as he steeled himself for this arduous journey, he harbored another ambition—a desire to forge alliances with beings of unparalleled power. Willow envisioned himself as a charismatic leader, rallying formidable allies to his cause. The prospect of commanding a legion of loyal companions, united in their devotion to his purpose, was a vision that fueled his determination.

And now, in the arena's crucible, amidst the clash of champions and the resonance of chi, Willow had begun to realize his aspirations. He had recruited not one, but three extraordinary individuals into his burgeoning cadre of allies.

There was Steel, the embodiment of unyielding might, a future champion whose very name evoked an impenetrable fortress. In Steel, Willow saw a guardian, a protector who would stand resolute against the encroaching darkness.

Then, there was the Omni-Mage, a mage of boundless potential, capable of weaving spells beyond imagination. In the Omni-Mage, Willow discerned the power of magic harnessed to its fullest extent, a force to be reckoned with in their quest.

And among them stood one of the fabled Elder Gods, a being of ancient wisdom and immense cosmic power, whose existence transcended mortal understanding. In this Elder God, Willow discovered not just an ally but a cherished companion, someone who had accepted him unconditionally.

The journey was far from over, the path ahead uncertain and fraught with danger. But as Willow reflected upon his evolving destiny, he felt a burgeoning sense of purpose. He was no longer the passive Maiden of legend; he had become a catalyst of change, a warrior determined to shape his own fate.

Then, Willow thought of an answer that hopefully would satisfy the Sage.

Willow's response hung in the air, a fragment of honesty amid a tapestry of half-truths and concealed intentions. He uttered those words, "Because I am weak," not as a complete falsehood but as a reflection of his inner turmoil. The Sage, with his profound insight, seemed to understand the weight behind those words.

In an unexpected turn of events, the Sage removed his blindfold, revealing a sight that even the knowledgeable Willow found astonishing. Instead of the expected empty, white orbs, the Sage's eye sockets were completely void of any visible organs. There were no corneas, no irises, no semblance of eyeballs—just two dark and empty voids where his eyes should have been.

Willow's genuine surprise was palpable. While his prior knowledge of the game had hinted at the Sage's blindness, the actual sight before him was something altogether different. It raised questions about the game's adaptation, the unpredictability of the butterfly effect, and the nuances of this world's reality.

The Sage, unbothered by Willow's astonishment, chose to explain himself. "You look surprised," he remarked, a hint of wistfulness in his voice.

Willow nodded hesitantly, his curiosity now piqued. "What happened?" he inquired, seeking to discern whether the Sage's eyeless condition mirrored the game's lore or was a unique facet of this world.

The Sage, however, remained enigmatic. He replaced his blindfold, as if retreating behind a protective barrier, and replied cryptically, "Ask no more, dear Maiden. I did not show you my 'eyes' to gain your pity."

The question lingering in Willow's mind remained unanswered, but he respected the Sage's decision to keep his past shrouded in mystery. Instead, he pressed forward with another inquiry, driven by genuine curiosity. "Then why?" he asked, his eyes locked on the blindfolded Sage.

The Sage's gaze wandered, surveying the chaotic battles unfolding in the colosseum. He focused briefly on two remarkable individuals—a wolf-kin exuding an aura reminiscent of unyielding steel and a half-elven mage who commanded the very elements themselves. There was a tacit acknowledgment of their extraordinary potential.

Returning his attention to Willow, the Sage cracked a faint smile and spoke in riddles. "What interesting people you've gathered around yourself, Maiden," he mused. His voice was tinged with a mixture of admiration and amusement. "But perhaps the most interesting person on this stage is you—a Maiden That Fights."

A chuckle, light and melodious, escaped the Sage's lips as he shook his head in apparent amusement. "Looks like this time will be the most interesting yet."

Willow absorbed the Sage's words, pondering their implications.

The Sage extended his hand, a gesture of camaraderie and respect. "Stand, Maiden," he invited, his voice carrying a tone of genuine acknowledgment. Willow felt warmth swell in his chest, a mix of pride and gratitude, finally someone recognized his determination and strength.

He took the Sage's outstretched hand eagerly, letting the enigmatic figure assist him to his feet. Behind his blindfold, the Sage's eyes held a subtle approval, as if he saw in Willow the potential for greatness.

Their attention turned to the ongoing battles within the arena, where combatants clashed in fierce duels and extravagant displays of power. The Sage gestured toward a towering figure, perched atop a pile of defeated opponents, his laughter resonating like a primal roar.

"That man is someone you need to be wary of the most, Maiden," the Sage warned, his words carrying a note of caution. Curiosity piqued, Willow couldn't help but inquire why this particular combatant warranted such attention.

The Sage's response was cryptic yet laden with significance. "He is the epitome of freedom and the great wilderness," he explained, his gaze unwavering. "Even in an open stage like this, there is no telling what a brutal savage like him will do to a Maiden of your beauty."

A shiver coursed down Willow's spine as the implications of the Sage's words settled in. The Brutal King, infamous for his savage inclinations, possessed a dark reputation that sent fear rippling through the hearts of those who crossed his path. Willow, as the Maiden, with his distinctive physique, became an alluring target for the ferocious warrior.

Willow nodded in understanding, acknowledging the sage advice. He expressed his gratitude to the Sage for the timely warning, recognizing the wisdom and experience that the enigmatic figure carried.

Before he could voice further inquiries or express his thoughts, the blaring sound of a gong resonated through the tournament grounds. The MC, hovering above them with a commanding presence, announced the conclusion of the elimination round with booming enthusiasm.

BAAM BAAM BAAM!

"THE ELIMINATION ROUND IS OVER!"