As it turned out, allowing Elomont and his retinue to accompany them had been the right choice.
With that artifact shielding their wills, no reverent had been able to detect them, even when they used their wills.
This way, their speed increased significantly, allowing them to cover vast swathes of land.
Regardless, Atticus maintained his caution throughout the journey. Every attempt Elomont made to get close to them was shut down, and he made sure no information about them slipped through.
Though he had chosen to follow them for the benefits, it did not change the fact that they were far from allies.
The fact that Elomont had attempted to kill Gladious over something so trivial spoke clearly of his nature.
Still, no matter how much time passed, Atticus had not sensed even the slightest trace of ill intent directed his way.
Ordinarily, with his ability to control wills, he could glean insight into a person’s state with ease.
But from Elomont, Atticus felt an even stronger presence of Crown’s will. He had not needed Gladious to confirm it, its potency was high. He was clearly a trueblood.
Unfortunately, that made it far harder to glean anything.
’I have to find a way around this.’
The thought passed through Atticus’ mind as his gaze remained cold.
These truebloods were undoubtedly the rulers of the First Crown, and from past experience, he was not one to coexist smoothly with any authority.
A clash could occur at any moment, and he needed every advantage he could get.
With that in mind, Atticus set the thought aside for now, choosing to revisit it once they reached the stronghold.
...
The First Crown stretched out like a wasteland beneath the scarlet sky. The trees stood shriveled, like their life had long since been drained.
The ground lay cracked and barren. Entire forests looked as though they had been swept through by fire, leaving nothing but hollow remains.
Atticus passed the time with light conversation among his people. He was glad to note that his earlier words had steadied Anorah. And now, her demeanor now carried a quiet resolve.
Eventually, a bright flash of light drew their attention toward the horizon. As they crested a hill, the sight before them came into full view.
A vast metropolis sprawled below, encased entirely within a golden dome.
A river of golden light flowed around the city, forming a radiant boundary. Beyond it, patches of grass and blooming flowers spread across the land, vibrant and alive, a stark contrast to the bleak wasteland surrounding it.
Beside him, Ozeroth watched with a wide grin, nodding in clear approval. Ozerra mirrored his reaction. Both siblings were visibly drawn to the city’s blinding brilliance.
In contrast, Whisker regarded it with a deep scowl, casting them an odd look before shaking his head and muttering under his breath that it wasn’t worth it.
"...this is Mosan City, supreme ruler, one of the three major strongholds in the First Crown."
Gladious spoke as he stared at the city, his expression layered with something difficult to place. Whether it stemmed from his stronghold being destroyed by a Momont, or from his own past experiences with the city, he could not tell.
Eventually, they made their way down the hill, crossing a long bridge until they arrived at the grand gates. There, a long line of people stretched outward, all waiting to enter the city.
Atticus’ eyes were cold as he regarded each of them.
The majority bore gleaming crowns upon their heads, making it clear they were hunters. Gods.
The requirement of killing other gods to gather crown fragments remained fresh in his mind.
In any case, these gods were his enemies.
Still, there was a bright side to encountering them. As gods who had ascended from the Span, none of them could use Crown will.
Atticus could feel every one of their wills, laid bare before him. Without effort, he knew instinctively that he could control them.
It was good news. It meant his ability to influence others’ wills had not been restricted by the plane’s will.
With Elomont’s presence, their entry had been smooth. After drawing a wave of dirty looks from those in the queue, along with murmurs of shock from those who clearly recognized him, they passed through and entered the city.
Then, Elomont approached, a faint smile on his face.
"It’s been a pleasure meeting you. I’d hate for it to end so soon. Why don’t you all come with me to my family’s estate? I’ll make sure you’re well taken care of."
"No."
Elomont’s expression tightened slightly, caught off guard by the blunt refusal. His people behind him were far less restrained, each of them glaring at Atticus.
Faced with their stares, Atticus remained unmoved.
"Then—"
"Thank you for your help so far."
Elomont paused, momentarily thrown off as Atticus gave a small nod before turning away. His people followed without hesitation, not sparing him a glance. Even that insect, Gladious.
As they left, Elomont let out a low chuckle, a cold, dangerous look settling over his face.
"Haa... this insect..."



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