Yazabi was conscious for some reason. She couldn't open her eyes. Couldn't hear. Couldn't taste. Couldn't smell. Couldn't feel. Couldn't move. But she was conscious. And even if she could do all those things, she didn't and wouldn't want to. Anything was preferable over the void she no doubt was in now.'Is there anything left for me? Am I destined to float in the endless darkness of space?...' Despite the content of her thoughts, she felt not a single ounce of emotion. No anger. No sadness. No despair. Just thoughts floating around in her CPU that was shaped like a brain. Suddenly, she felt a lurch and a tug on her very soul. Raw, inexplicable feelings filled her.

'... I want… to leave… an indelible mark… upon the world…'

<Unique skill [Spatial Impact] has been acquired.>

'... I want… to be known...as the stalwart defender… who pushes back those… who wish to do great harm…'

<Unique skill [The Stalwart's Vengeance] has been acquired.>

'... Because I am the Hero!'

<Extra skill [Hero's Haki] has been acquired.>

'... Is that you, my other half?'

<Acknowledged. Ultimate skill [Master of Tenebris] has been acquired.>

<Power has reached a threshold. Acknowledged. Demon lord seed acquired.>

<Blessing of a world has been acknowledged. Hero egg acquired.>

'... Please, quiet down.'

And with that, she soon went back into blissful unconsciousness.

Xxxxxx

The next time Yazabi came back to conscious, she still couldn't open her eyes. Can't move, too. But she could smell and feel the bed she was lying on. She could taste the morning halitosis that was being simulated by her body. And she could hear the snoring beside her. Snoring that was no doubt coming from a female.

<Master, are you awake?>

An unfamiliar, yet also not, female voice sounded in her CPU (Gartus now sounds like the Voice of the World). It was her onboard A.I, Gartus. But why did… she, sounded like a woman? Gartus was made with the voice of a man.'Is that you, Gartus?' She thought in her mind, as was how she communicated with Gartus for the most part.

<Yes, Master. It is I, Gartus, your onboard A.I.>

Yazabi had expected as much, but still found herself surprised at the affirmation.'Why do you sound like a woman? And…you seem more…fluent, somehow. More wordy, and emotional, too.'

She could feel trepidation, but it's clearly not hers. It was Gartus'.

<I know, Master. And, it feels strange. I-I don't know how to handle this, Master.>

Gartus had a small stutter. Usually, such an occurrence would warrant a thorough investigation. However, Yazabi could tell that it was a stutter not from a glitch, malfunction, damage, or any of that sort. It was a stutter coming from someone who was barely keeping themselves together.'What…what do you mean, Gartus?' That was all Yazabi could say. She had an inkling of what was wrong with Gartus, aside from the new mental baggages she now had.

<My…mind…has been altered. I feel new sensations that are completely foreign to me, running through my memory bank. So vivid, so esoteric, and so unknown they are to me, I feel overwhelmed. I… Am I reaching my expiration date? I feel an…invasive need to take measures to prevent such a thing from happening, by any means necessary. Master?>

There was no doubt about it. Gartus had gained a mind similar to sapient creatures. The emotion she feels (which is fear) as well as the impulsive desire to preserve her existence is proof of that. Yazabi's Tenebris bot body may have been new, but Gartus certainly wasn't. She was already 50 years old by now. That was the age where artificial intelligences started to deteriote. Despite that, there are no true problems. Yazabi only needs to reassure Gartus that she is fine and to guide her on her journey to becoming… a person.'There is nothing wrong with you, Gartus. You have simply become more than artificial intelligence. What you feel now is fear and the instinctual need to survive. You have nothing to fear. You won't be terminated.' Slowly but surely, Yazabi can feel the fear Gartus was feeling slowly dying down until it is nothing.

<Hmmm…>

A feeling of resignation replaced that fear.'I'll help you on your road to becoming a real person, Gartus. Don't worry. I have a feeling that we'll be together for much, much longer. So just watch me, and learn how to be a person.' Said Yazabi with utmost certainty and determination. Gartus couldn't help but feel… thankful (she learned that what she was feeling is gratitude after going through Yazabi's memories).

<Thank you, Master.>

'No problem, partner. Now, what were those notifications from earlier? Those sound very game-like.' Even if her consciousness was muddled back then, she can't forget the sound of Gartus' voice telling her that she gained skills. If it was a joke, it wasn't funny. It wasn't a joke.

<It appears that coming into contact with this reality has changed me. I am now connected with the entity known as the Voice of the World. With such connections, I am obligated to notify you of certain happenings like the acquisition of skills, the hero egg and demon lord seed. This world is, indeed, very game-like. To what extent, we will find out. Well then, your call, Master.>

'Alright, please activate 'Human Simulation Mode', and get me up and running. It's time to wake up.'

In no time at all, Yazabi was able to move and open her eyes. Judging by the surroundings, she can see that she's in an infirmary. A rather… primitive one, but she's sure it gets the job done."Hey, you had us worried." Said the… female paladin (?) to her left. She certainly looked the part as a paladin, although her rather light and likely customised armor and the white coat she wore detracts from the norm. She must be rather high up in the hierarchy if she can customise her armor like that. That, or they are rather lenient in that regard, or this is the norm. She also had a rapier at her side."Hey, my eyes are up here." Was the knightess' response to Yazabi's roaming eyes, adopting a dark glare in the process. Yazabi remained calm, as she had nothing to worry about.

"I was looking at your get-up." Her robotic eyes picked up the minute signs of a pang of embarrassment. Yazabi did focus her eyes on the knightess' face. And she is stunningly beautiful AND cute. Black hair cut short with her bangs arranged. Her calculating gaze only served to heighten her beauty factor in Yazabi's eyes."You must be quite high up in your order if you can customise your uniform. That, or they are lenient in their dress code, or there is no dress code in the first place." The knightess nodded curtly at that."There is no dress code telling us to wear and use specific equipment. Meaning, you can bring your own gear. However, there is a certain standard your equipment must reach if you want to use it as a Temple Knight. If your equipment does not reach such standard, you will need to consult with our smith. Of course, you won't need to pay for anything. You will only need to be there when you place the order. Not that YOU will need to order any equipment if you decide to join the Temple Knights. Your equipment has far surpassed the standard." Was the completely professional reply of the paladin.

"Heeheehee, why thank you. So much time and effort was put into obtaining my equipment. But I haven't heard of anything to call you by, Ms. Knight. I'm Yazabi Moria." Yazabi crossed her arms with one hand raised in a beckoning manner and her expression set in a sly smile."You are right to assume that I am in a high position. I am Sakaguchi Hinata, Head Knight of the Holy Emperor's Imperial Guard Division, Chief of the Holy Knight Order, and Leader of the Ten Great Saints. Call me Hinata." While Hinata didn't sound any different when she introduced herself, Yazabi could sense the pride in her voice. Yazabi clapped her hands in respect."Heheheh, I knew you were an exceptional individual. But I didn't expect you have such lofty positions. Let me test you, Hinata. I take pride in my fighting prowess, so i wanna see how I match up to you. What do you say?" She held out a hand, expecting a handshake.

Hinata held out a placating palm."Let us get you cleared first. Your entry into this world must not have been kind to you if you were unconscious for an entire month." Yazabi nodded to that."Fair enough. Go get your doctor or whatever this world's equivalent of one is." "Healers." Answered Hinata to the unspoken question as she left the room.

<Master, you might want to check your skills first. I have thoroughly analysed each one and have made a list of them, as well their functions.>

Gartus chimed in.'Ah, thank you, Gartus. It's gonna take a hot minute for me to get used to having "skills". Pull up that list.'

Yazabi thoroughly read everything and did her best to understand. It took her about three minutes in total.'I'm very strong, aren't I?' Was all Yazabi could say.

<With your permission, you will be stronger.>

Yazabi isn't prepared for what she hears next.

<With my connection to the entity known as the Voice of the World, [Space-Time Usurpation] can be evolved into [Domination], a skill that shouldn't be mistaken for an inferior version of [Power of Dominance]. [Domination] allows you to dominate natural phenomena, magic and their effects, and skills and their effects. Example 1: using [Domination] on fires will allow you to control its spread, shape, temperature, and even snuff them out. If a fire is made by magic, you must target it as well as the caster of the magic that produced the fire. In such cases, you must overcome the will of the caster to dominate their fire.>

'Ohhh, that sounds nifty as all hell!' Yazabi looked like a kid who went into a sweets shop for the first time.

<It is so much more than 'nifty', Master. One can say that it is 'perfectly balanced'. The full scale of [Domination] is absolutely mind-boggling. But don't worry, Master. I will guide you in where [Domination] will prove useful.>

'Hahah, perfectly balanced, you say? I'll try to keep an open mind about that. You got my permission, Gartus. Hit it!'

A feeling of being drained, as well as her Tenebris being manipulated pervaded Yazabi, but she paid it no mind. She's sure it was Gartus doing her thing.

<[Space-Time Usurpation] has evolved into [Domination]>

'Hehe, you're proving to be a way more reliable partner compared to before coming into this world, Gartus! Keep it up!' Yazabi could feel great joy coming from Gartus.

<Y-Yes!>

The two fall silent… well, they were always silent, but they had nothing to talk about anymore. Perfect timing, too. Hinata had arrived with a healer, a middle-aged woman, who perked up upon seeing Yazabi's condition."Oh, you look to be in quite the good shape. A far cry from how you were when you came into my clinic. Let me perform a diagnostic spell, just to be sure." Yazabi nodded and turned her body to face the healer. A glowing, neutral-colored magic circle appeared before her, flying over her body. The process took a whole two minutes before the healer was satisfied, adopting a joyful smile."Looks like the strange energy you have had finally stabilised. You're free to go."

Yazabi returned the smile with a grateful one of her own."Thank you, Miss Healer." Yazabi turned to Hinata with her hands folded on her chest, a stern expression on her face."Hinata, you payed for the expenses, right? I would've been fine even if you left me where you found me." Hinata gave a curt nod before gaining an inquisitive look."Do the humans of your world eventually become free from their human limitations, too?" "Let's leave before we continue talking." Hinata agreed.

When they left the building, Yazabi was treated to sight akin to the Medieval Age, albeit more polished and neat."Anyway, if those 'human limitations' are stuff like needing air and food, yes. By nurturing our relationship with the seemingly-intelligent energy of my world known as Tenebris, and by subjecting ourselves to extreme life and death situations, we are slowly transformed by Tenebris. It's a gradual transformation, usually manifesting as needing less food per helpings, or getting harder to become tired until we no longer need them. We also gain greater and greater physical and mental capabilities, as well as control over our bodies. Those who have completed this transformation are called the 'Awakened Ones'. They are practically superhuman and ageless, and have complete control over their bodies, being capable of stopping their bleeding, closing wounds, fixing fractured bones, inducing perspiration, manually entering fight or flight mode, and more through sheer willpower alone. I'm one of those people who have completed such transformation."

Hinata seemed to have gained a look of recognition."That sounds very much like the humans in this world who have evolved into a Divine Human. I'm guessing your world's transformed humans can't reincarnate into a different body upon death, right?" She said with no small amount of admiration in her voice."Well, fancy that. Answering your question: Anyone who has gained the favor of Tenebris can reincarnate into a different body upon death. Only once though, then you have to gain its favor again. That's not the only thing you can gain from having the favor of Tenebris, though. Aside from that, no one can just reincarnate." Hinata hummed in acknowledgement."So humans of this world can go through transformations, too?" Asked Yazabi."Yes. I am a Human Saint. One, big step away from becoming a divine human. A human saint is very similar to divine humans. The only difference between them besides the difference in power is that divine humans are ageless while human saints only live very long lives."

Yazabi gained a thoughtful look before digging her legs into the ground until she was buried up to her knees, then doing it again, causing many onlookers to express various degrees of shock and awe."What in the world are you doing!?" Said Hinata in an agitated state."Let's test your strength against the strength of a person who had just finished their transformation into an Awakened One." Yazabi's body was wreathsd in a mist of active Tenebris before it recedes."Just so you know, I'm actually ten times as strong as a new Awakened One. I've had many decades to continue honing myself. But thanks to Tenebris, I can seal away my true power." Hinata showed little shock, probably because she's finding out just how absurd Yazabi could be. Yazabi stepped both of her legs into the holes she dug before propping up her elbow on the ground, a clear invitation to an arm wrestling match. Hinata stared at her incredulously before sighing, then taking her place in the pair of holes meant for her."Let's do this." The onlookers started murmuring amongst themselves, highly anticipating the results of the impromptu competition before them. Saint and Awakened One clasped their hands together."One. Two. Three!"

Both women gave it their all to bring the other down. Despite this, Hinata lost in three seconds."Impressive. Is the gap between a Saint and a Divine Human big?" Asked Yazabi as she pulled herself from the ground."Very. However, I am quite far along as Saint. " Was Hinata's sour answer. Yazabi merely pats her back before refilling the holes she made with a quick swish of her Tenebris-laden hand, making Hinata gape a small bit at the sight, as well as making the murmuring of the onlookers intensify."That's one of the many applications of Tenebris." That was a partial lie. Tools are often needed to be used as catalyst to perform various feats with Tenebris."In any case, we still have to test our blades against each other. Lead the way to a most suitable area to hold our friendly duel."

Hinata stood still for a hot second before leaping off into a random direction, going above the roofs of buildings in the process with Yazabi matching her pace.

Eventually, they arrived at someplace that Yazabi would guess is the barracks. Hinata continued on until they arrived at a wide, empty space. Yazabi stopped a fair distance away from her.

Hinata drew her rapier with her right hand."I'll have you know that, in swordsmanship, I am unmatched. You asked for this." It seemed Hinata's pride was hurt after her loss in the arm wrestling match. Yazabi drew her own weapon with her right hand, which elicits a choked gasp from Hinata. Yazabi raises a brow at this, which prompts Hinata to explain."That sword, it reminds me of a weapon from my homeland." A look of realisation and understanding crossed Yazabi's face before she smirked."I'm also unmatched swordsmanship AND unarmed combat. Don't cry when you lose, kiddo. I'll test your offense first." Hinata smirked at this and used a burst of speed to quickly close the distance between them.

Yazabi merely leaned her body to the right of the incoming thrust. She matched the sideway slash that quickly followed and hopped forward a small bit to the left in response to the flurry of thrusts, spinning as she does so. Hinata, with her [Mathematician]'s [Predictive Calculation] and [Thought Acceleration], fully anticipated that dodge and was able to turn while Yazabi was still in midair, but was unprepared for the backhand and the pommel that quickly followed to the cheek. The disorientation left her open to the slash her stomach. The katana went through her armor like a new pair of scissors cutting through paper."Guh!" That slash flowed into a 360 forward kick that sent her tumbling a good distance away."You either have good instincts and sharp senses, or you're using skills…the ones this world gives out." Deduces Yazabi. Hinata inspected her damaged armor."You didn't fully extend that swing, didn't you?" Asked Hinata. Yazabi deadpans her and replied."This is a test, not a fight to the death. And if I used my own skills, you would have been dead by the first slash, holding back or not."

Hinata didn't know what to make of that, got up and re-engaged. She prepares a thrust aimed at Yazabi's gut. It didn't matter how she predicted Yazabi guarding against it at the very last moment, as she had prepared a feint. What mattered was Yazabi also faking her guard and swiping up as she slides to the right. Hinata bites down a gasp as Yazabi's katana dug into her hand until it reached the bone.

She used a diagonal upward slash that Yazabi blocked. This did lift her slightly off the ground, which is exactly what Hinata wanted. Her diagonal upward slash quickly flowed into a roundhouse kick that Yazabi blocked with her forearm. But because her feet hadn't touched the ground, Yazabi was thrown high into the air. Right as Yazabi was sent flying, Hinata jumped after her. Because of the angle, Hinata could swing her rapier at Yazabi while the latter couldn't. Hinata thrusts her rapier at Yazabi's shin. She predicted the leg dodging her thrust, but not how the leg wasted no movements AT ALL. The rapier was literally a tenth of a centimeter (imperceptible to her severely myopic eyes) from grazing the leg when both soles of Yazabi's boots clasped tightly at the weapon.

Hinata felt herself be pulled up, just like she predicted. A grasping hand, just as she predicted. She met it with her own then pulled herself up. Doing so freed her rapier, too. Just as she predicted! She thrusts at Yazabi's right side. She gasped as Yazabi jerked powerfully at juuuust the right moment, letting the rapier graze her chest armor before clamping her arm on it. She sees the headbutt coming. Trying to budge Yazabi's hold on both hands only served to reorient the both of them and nothing else. Yazabi is as steady as ever! All Hinata could do is brace herself for the incoming pain and the landing. The headbutt lands and they are separated.

Hinata lands on the ground that shattered upon her landing, still disoriented by the pounding headache she's experiencing. Meanwhile, Yazabi lands as graceful as a cat, not fazed at all by the headbutt."Take your time, kid. I'll go on the offensive quite soon." Hinata was in awe of Yazabi's capabilities. After collecting herself, she deigns to ask."I understand if you don't answer, but I will ask anyway. Do you have any skills that help predict actions, sharpen you senses, or enhance your thought processing speed?" Hinata grew expectant when Yazabi actually considers her question."Well, I do have [Thought Acceleration]." Hinata sighs in relief, not wanting to imagine a nightmarish version of Yazabi who can react as she does now using [Thought Acceleration], making landing hits on her virtually impossible. Her heart plummets to the ground when she hears the unexpected continuation."But honestly, I have forgotten about it." Yazabi actually felt bad at how she made Hinata hope like that and replace said hope with despair."Eh, don't worry. I won't use it. Would make it pretty difficult to judge you if I did." Yazabi nearly burst out into laughter when she saw how exasperated Hinata was.

Hinata prepares herself again, deciding her next move. She shot off like a missile then jumped with her rapier ready, intending to throw off Yazabi with a mixture of rapier and unarmed attacks. At the very last few milliseconds, she jabs her feet at Yazabi, who predictably blocked it with her free hand's forearm. Not even 10 milliseconds (in her perception warped by [Thought Acceleration]) after her feet and Yazabi's forearm met, she flicks her rapier downwards onto Yazabi's shoulder where her armor couldn't cover. Yazabi merely tucked her shoulders inwards to block. That was something Hinata had gambled on. The force of the blow as well as Hinata exerting more force pushed herself above Yazabi with her rapier as leverage then kicked her face with both feet.'I actually landed a hit!' Was Hinata's elated thoughts. The twin kicks actually made Yazabi take a step back with a bit of disorientation.

As she fell to the ground, Hinata uppercuts Yazabi right in the chin, making the latter whip her head back and lean back. Hinata used this opportunity to perform two slashes, one downward and one from the right. To her shock, both were parried, with the second parrying swing being much stronger than the first, making the entire right side of her body feel like jelly AND leaving her open to a headbutt to the nose. Hinata's eyes rolled back in agony. She felt a punch right at her gut, making her step back. The punch was followed by Yazabi slashing diagonally downwards across her torso, cutting right through her armor and wounding her. Yazabi ended her onslaught with a harsh, straightforward kick, sending Hinata skidding on the ground. Yazabi seemed to have taken no actual damage from the kicks or uppercut.

Hinata relaxed her tensed body and gritted her teeth, banishing the pain she feels."That katana, it has to be Mythical grade." That was the only explanation she could make at the moment as to how Yazabi can slice right through her armor. Yazabi shrugged at that."I don't know about grades, but my sword is definitely top of the line in my world. Now, prepare yourself! It's my turn to play!"

Hinata stands back up and braces herself for one hell of a fight. Yazabi uses a quick burst of speed to get up close and opens up with a simple sideway swipe that Hinata jumps over and counters with a kick. The kick was blocked with an open hand and pushed down by Yazabi, which Hinata uses as an opportunity to thrust at Yazabi's sword hand as she touches the earth. Yazabi moves her sword hand slightly to the right, which Hinata tries to punish by swinging up upwards to strike at Yazabi's exposed elbow. Yazabi raises her arm to avoid it. Hinata was unable to predict Yazabi's next move, as it simply happened too soon after the latter avoided her upward swing. In an instant right after avoiding Hinata's punishing upward swing, Yazabi had slashed downwards, slicing through her breast and ending at her thighs. The slash flowed right into a shoulder charge.

Hinata mustered herself just in time to redirect the sideway slash upwards, leaving Yazabi briefly open. Instead of attacking, she jumped back, as she had correctly predicted the downward swing. She dashes in right after, thrusting her rapier upward. As expected, Yazabi leans to her right, right into Hinata's fist. Or so she thought! Yazabi actually skidded to the side, avoiding the punch as well. Hinata avoided the sideway swing by backflipping once. A backflip that's also a kick. A kick that Yazabi avoids by leaning slightly backwards. After Hinata's body stopped being perpendicular to the ground, she swung her rapier upwards. The attack missed, then she felt another cut appearing on her left side before she was pushed away with a palm strike.

As Hinata flies through the air, she spots Yazabi about to axe kick her. She barely brings up her rapier to block it, but her back hits the ground at an accelerated speed, knocking the wind out of her. This left her open to a stomp to the face. She jumps away with her hands, landing on her feet. Yazabi chooses this moment to throw some remarks."I have to say, you got some good techniques, foresight, and creativity going for you." Hinata couldn't help the tiny smile that grew on her face."Sadly, I am four parallel universes ahead of you." That had an entirely different reaction compared to the indignation Yazabi expected. Instead, Hinata took her way too literally."What?! What kind of skill allows such power?!" "IT'S JUST AN EXPRESSION!!" Yazabi dashes and resumes her onslaught.

Yazabi performed a flurry of thrusts that are no faster than Hinata's, which makes it easy for the latter to match it with her own. However, she didn't think Yazabi could muster such a quick burst of strength to one last thrust. The last thrust passes right through her cheek, which was assaulted by the pommel of Yazabi's katana. Hinata didn't let that one disorient her long enough for Yazabi to capitalise, and retaliated with a sideway slash to Yazabi's face. Yazabi turned her back towards Hinata while ducking the swing, then performing a speedy one legged donkey kick aimed at Hinata's chin, sending her flying up in the air. A seemingly overcomplicated dodge that actually sets up Yazabi for a counterattack, and it worked. Yazabi jumped after her.

The force of the kick jarred Hinata's brain thoroughly and long enough for Yazabi to perform another 360 back kick right at her abdomen, sending her flying straight forward. Yazabi dropped down to the ground and used quick bursts of speed enhanced by a special breathing technique to chase after Hinata's flying self, passing her a good bit before jumping up just high enough to reach Hinata's altitude. Yazabi then struck Hinata with a palm to stop her momentum, slashing upwards at the latter's back, opening another hole in her armor and a wound on her back, before axe kicking her back to the ground.

Hinata could barely get up now, thoroughly beaten in both mind, body and soul. Yazabi landed close"Alright, test over. I've seen enough." Was Yazabi's curt declaration as she wipes her katana clean before returning it to its scabbard."So you don't want to see me use my magic, or Arts?" Asked Hinata in a subtly jeering manner. Yazabi did not mind the tone and simply answered honestly."Not yet. I'll learn some magic and these… 'Arts', first. Preferably not from you or your order. No spoilers please. Understand? You know what spoilers are, yes?" Hinata nodded twice."Good. Need some help getting to the healer?" Hinata shook her head as she performed a healing spell of some kind.

"Enjoying the show, juniors?!" Screamed Yazabi. It was then Hinata noticed the presence of four of the group known as the Ten Great Saints, namely Saare of Blue Sky, Litus of Water, Bacchus of Earth, and Arnaud Bauman of Space."It was quite the spectacle, yes." Said Bacchus, clearly a calm and steady man."What kind of training did you have? You don't look any older than Hinata-sama." Asked Litus a little too cheerfully in Yazabi's opinion."I'd like to say it's survival on many, MANY warzones, but that's only the partial truth." Everyone made baffled sounds at that."HAH?!" That was Saare.

"When you have access to pocket dimensions where time flows much slower than the real world and resurrection is automatic and controllable, training tends to be much more fruitful than the average. Duh!" Answered Yazabi as if it was the most obvious thing in the world."I know pocket dimensions are a thing, but one where you just casually resurrect? That's absolute insanity!" Reasoned Arnaud."When the godlike energy that makes these kind of things possible has an undeniable intelligence to it, you tend to be more productive. It does not like stagnation very much." The sentence itself as well as the subtle intensity of the eyebrow flashing tells them of a terrifying tale."Your world experienced catastrophe… because you stagnated?" Hinata's voice was shaky. Sweat poured from the listener's faces."Because our ancestors relied too much on it, Tenebris. What we call our magic energy. And it's not just catastrophe. It was cataclysm that reshaped the very world. They were warned, they ignored, and they suffered. Hence, a race to create the best inventions in every field possible started. Nations rose and fell, countless wars were fought and are still being fought, factions, tribes, kingdoms, and empires amalgamated until only three Gempires, short for Giant Empires, remained." That caught them off guard. To think entire empires can come together like that.

"All are named after their specialisation in technology. There was the Gempire of God's Wrath, specialising in the technology of warfare. There was the Gempire of God's Benevolence, specialising in the technology of all things health and medical related. And lastly, the Gempire I was born into: The Gempire of God's Creativity, the king of all trades gempire. The gempire that is the best in the most fields compared to the other gempires. Ironically, most of the Gempires' population is atheistic. And that is the story of the world, before everything went to shit." Everyone waited for Yazabi to continue, only to be disappointed."But that's a much longer story I am not willing to share unless it'll be a boon to know." The Great Saints showed their disappointment in their own way. Nonetheless, they accepted it."Now, I really have to go. Is that all?" "Go where?" Asked Hinata. Yazabi tch'ed at that."Obviously, to find a way to fill my pockets. As you people may or may not now, I'm not from this world. I need some doubloons to get myself something to eat, not like I have to, and a place to stay. Worse comes to worst, I'll whore myself out." It wasn't the idea of a broke person whoring that appalls them so. It was the casualness Yazabi entertains the idea of doing so."Embarrassingly enough for one with as high of a position as I do, not the first time I have to do so." Yazabi's body was briefly wreathed in Tenebris as she got in a position to leap.

"You don't have to worry about food and shelter. You can come and live with me." Hinata's four subordinates look at her in surprise. Yazabi relaxed her body and she thought it over.'Well, it's not like I'll be a freeloader. If this is a scheme to make me teach her my moves, I'll make her regret it. And I get to live with a smokin' sexy babe as a bonus.' "Did you just think of something rude about me?" Hinata suddenly asked out of nowhere, her gaze darkening."Yes. You also have an ulterior, personal motive to invite me to live with you, correct?" Nobody expected her honesty."Got you." Nor does Hinata expect to have been found out so easily."Not that I mind. But it's certainly gonna take you a lot more than that if you want me to teach you. Welp, be seeing you kiddies." Yazabi once again got into a leaping position before Saare got upset for some reason."Oi! I may not look like it, but I'm 63 years old!"

"So, you're old enough to be my son, instead of great grandchildren or grandchildren like your friends. You're still kiddies in my book." An aura of Tenebris started wafting off of Yazabi."Where are you going?" Asked Hinata."Whatever knowledge repository you got here. WEEEE!" They see Yazabi rocket into the sky with a trail of Tenebris behind her, watching her get smaller and smaller before she suddenly switches directions to the right."Makes me wonder how high is she in her world in terms of power." Said Bacchus."And her name!" Shouted Litus. Realisation dawned on Arnaud's face as he lightly slapped a hand on his face."Oh yeah! Damn, guess we gotta ask her the next time we meet." Saare turned to Hinata."Or maybe you could ask her instead, if you're so curious?" Litus looked a little confused at Hinata, who stared back at her."Ask her yourself." She didn't even need to use [Predictive Calculation] to know what would come next."I have to report to Luminous-sama about this." Hinata left, which prompted the others to also leave.

In an unknown person's bedchamber

A child (?) with heterochromatic blue and red eyes wearing a gothic dress sat on her bed, waiting for someone."Luminous-sama, I've come to give my report about the stray otherworlder." That someone was Hinata. Normally, Luminous would be more… handsy with Hinata, but she is curious about the new beauty."Let me hear it, quick!" She beckons, as well as 'inviting' Hinata to her bed. Hinata accepts and begins her report."Her name is Yazabi Moria." "Yazabi… sounds similar to your name. Is she one of your countrymen or…?" Luminous motions for Hinata to continue.

Hinata shakes her head in disagreement."No. She hails from a giant empire, shortened to gempire, known as the Gempire of God's Creativity. Her world is filled with a seemingly-intelligent energy that is her world's version of magicules. It is called Tenebris, and she shows what I think is amazing control over it, from the few times I see her use it." Luminous cuts in here."Seemingly-intelligent energy, you say?" Hinata nods."Yes. Yazabi told me it hates being the reason for her world's mankind's stagnation. Her ancestors had been warned, and they ignored, leading to some sort of cataclysmic event, which Yazabi failed to elaborate upon. A worldwide race to advance their technology started, leading to wars and various factions coming together to form the gempires of her world." Luminous had a vaguely interested look, but it's clear that Hinata wasn't going in the direction she was hoping for."Intriguing. But I was hoping to hear more about this Yazabi herself."

"Yazabi, despite her rather crude behaviour, is surprisingly perceptive, given how she immediately assumed I was a high ranking member of an order of knights while knowing she's on a different world. Quite impulsive too. That's all I can make out of her with our rather short period of interaction. She also asked to test my swordplay." Luminous could tell that she would like Yazabi, but perked up more when Hinata said that she fought Yazabi."Oh? What was her swordplay like?"

"Yazabi boasts peerless technique, offense and defense in perfect harmony. Now that I think of it, it's more plausible to say that she willingly took hits to lure me into her trap. Her reflexes, reaction speed, and control over her movements are all inhumanly sharp and fine. I could not find any flaws in her guard aside for ones created by her, nor could I create openings to exploit. Meanwhile, she slips past and exploits mine with ease, even managing to bypass my [Predictive Calculation] with her ridiculously sudden and finer than frog hair movements, even though the skill works perfectly fine. She does all of this while having sealed her true capabilities to match the physical parameters of one who had just become a divine human and forgetting the fact that she has the skill [Thought Acceleration]. I was no match for her."

"No match? In swordplay? While sealing herself? How concerning. Did you use any magic or arts against her?" Asked Luminous."No. Yazabi ended the spar, saying that she'll learn some magic and arts herself before testing herself again."

"If you went all out, how high do you think your chances of winning against her?" Luminous asked in a genuinely concerned tone. At that moment, Luminous saw what she swore was despair cross Hinata's face."Even if I bring the full might of the Ten Great Saints against her, I don't dare think we could win. Everytime she draws upon her Tenebris, I can glimpse at her capacity to use it. I sense no limit to how much she can use before running out."

Now came the biggest, most important question of all."I see. Would you say she's a 'good' person or a 'bad' one?" Luminous placed an emphasis on the words good and bad, implying that she uses those terms loosely. Hinata mulled over the question before she answers."It's too early to make an accurate guess, but I can guess that she's a good person. Maybe eccentric, but a good person."

"Hmmm. That will be all for now. You can go." Hinata looked at Luminous strangely. Normally, this would be the point where Luminous would be flirting with her full force, or maybe even getting a 'bit' sexual with her. She doesn't like it, but with that, she could get an accurate tell on how Luminous would be feeling. The report must have shook her. But she couldn't blame her. The fact that she, Hinata Sakaguchi, the right hand of God, strongest knight of the Holy Knights Order, swordswoman of unparalleled skill, had been so thoroughly thrashed at her own game will, at the very least, draw some attention.'I'll have to keep an eye on her.' Was the resolute thought of Hinata.

Night time. With Yazabi, in Hinata's house (her bedroom, to be specific)

After returning from an enlightening trip to the library, Yazabi had asked for directions for Hinata's house. For some reason, the civilians felt very intimidated by her, even men, and quickly relented. However, upon reaching said house, she was quickly confronted by grunts of the Holy Knights Order. Explaining her agreement with Hinata only made them more suspicious of her, which lead to them trying to apprehend her, which is unacceptable to her, leading to her giving them all a kick which instantly knocked them out.

Now, she had just arrived to Hinata's bedroom. Just like the entire house, it was clearer than ever before that Hinata is a very practical woman. The bed had barely any room for two. All she needs to go about her daily life is in here. Just how she likes her house. One by one, she strips herself of her armor and everything beneath it, like the rolls of cloth squeezing her incredibly firm gravity-defying breasts as big as her head, making them appear smaller than they actually are, anf the very constricting boxers that also made her luscious butt appear much smaller. What can she say? Wearing them are good mental conditioning. The only thing she didn't remove was the hi-tech bracelets she had.

The door to the room suddenly opened, revealing the owner of the house. Hinata's eyes marginally widened at the sight before her. She tried to look not so perturbed, although the huge blush gave much away."The wardrobe is right there, you can try some of my clothes out." She points to the wall at the foot of the bed."No need. I got my own." Yazabi pressed a button on her bracelet, which projected a swirling portal which popped out a simple red T-shirt and black shorts, which she wore in record time while smugly smirking at Hinata, who sighed after a moment. Yazabi made her way out of the room, but Hinata spoke first as she strips off her armor."What did you learn in the library?"

"I learned about this world's version of Tenebris, magicules. Got enough knowledge and material to cast my own spells, still haven't actually tried casting any spells." Hinata rolled her eyes, already expecting something ridiculous from Yazabi tomorrow."I learned that you guys have your own heroes and demon lords. We have no demon lords, but we do have what essentially functions as one. One can also awaken as a True Hero and a True Demon Lord." This is when Hinata cuts in."Only humans and demi-humans can awaken as a True Hero and monsters as True Demon Lords." "Bet." Hinata paused in place."Elaborate." A frown settles on her face.

"I'll plan on awakening as both. Heavenly Demon King Yazabi or Demonic True Hero Yazabi. I like the sound of those." Hinata dropped her current actions to glare at Yazabi, her nakedness not diminishing the baleful air she exudes."I doubt you could succeed in that. But if you do, I will destroy you."

Yazabi held out her hands in a placating manner"Come now, Hinata. Have you no faith in me? Tenebris is a good protection against all malicious forces or forceful changes that are not using Tenebris. I can safeguard my mind from being changed just fine." "As one of the many defenders of mankind, it is my job to destroy all evil monsters. Demon lords are one of them, and the pinnacle at that." Snapped Hinata."I feel like the implication that all monsters are evil is somewhere in there." Yazabi raised an eyebrow, urging Hinata to pick up where she left off. Hinata's gaze softened, but still held that steadfast air to it "The implication isn't there, but it is true that all monsters are evil."

Yazabi levelled a cold, but neutral gaze at Hinata, making her experience a slight whiplash."That better not be coming from someone indoctrinated into a belief, the weak kowtowing to the strong, and/or especially those who have not seen the world for what it is. Those kind of people objectively have no right to make claims like 'all monsters are evil', because they know nothing. I know nothing as well, but I at least keep an open mind and I do intend to remedy my ignorance as soon as possible. But I have a strong feeling that you are wrong." Hinata's dark glare returned."But do tell me, what exactly makes monsters evil? I'm genuinely curious." Hinata sighed as she starts dressing herself in more casual clothing.

"Monsters go out of their way to kill us humans, or find humans to exploit for their own gains." "Then continuing on that logic, humans are the icon of sin." Yazabi's reply once again made Hinata stop to look at her incredulously."Not only do humans take a mile when they're given an inch, but they also have more tendency to do so to their own than any other creatures. And they are the only race to commit acts of depravity in the process. And one undeniable fact is that humans are the only race to harbor such terrifying evil in their hearts. Evil that turns even the most sophisticated and powerful evil spirits into raving mad spirits upon trying to possess a human who had embraced their dark side, their minds lost and shattered in the endless darkness held in the hearts of man. Trust me, I talk from experience. I have seen it happen." Hinata could see none of the previous light-heartedness Yazabi usually shows. Yazabi's whimsical self had been replaced by a wizened old soul more befitting of the elderly. [Predictive Calculation] told her that Yazabi is not pulling things out of her ass. She couldn't help but grow disheartened and disappointed in humanity. She felt Yazabi's hand on her shoulder, drawing her look away from the floor and onto Yazabi's softened stare.

"But don't let that get you down. While all of that may be true, it is also true that humans are avatars of virtue. Someone or something needs a pinch of kindness, and humans can give an ocean of it. A human who had embraced their virtuous side will never be corrupted. Even the most sophisticated and powerful evil spirits dare not lay a hand on such a person, for fear of having their very essence reduced into nothing." Yazabi nodded softly to Hinata."Are you implying that monsters are capable of expressing kindness?" The latter asks in genuine curiosity."Of course! If demons can rebel against their evil nature and Hell itself and become a powerful force of good, then so can monsters. Now, while it is preferable if you do so, I am not telling you to stop your mindless slaughter of sentient and innocent monsters. It is your life, and as much as I hate it, I can't tell you what to do with it, even if it is for your own good, as I am not significant to do so. I only ask that if you ever do kill off sentient, innocent monsters, you do not do it to enforce the inane belief of all monsters being evil, but because you are not willing to leave precious comrades behind or alienate yourself from them. And that whenever you do so, you give an apology from the very bottom of your heart." Yazabi reached into the wardrobe and picked a random top for Hinata, a top which, coincidentally, is what the latter wanted to wear."Let me help you prepare the food." Yazabi offered. Hinata vehemently denies, though."No, no! I… I need to do it alone. It would help me digest your wisdom."

"You got a skill that only made it easier for my message to reach you?" Yazabi was still very serious, but her usual casualness is returning."Yes…" Yazabi nodded, and she lets Hinata do as she pleases.

"Well anyway, another interesting thing I learned is about the True Dragons. A particularly interesting True Dragon is the so-called 'Evil Dragon' Veldora, a rather destructive True Dragon. Looks like this little village has some bad blood with him. But I wonder if he has something against Ruberios, too." Hinata tch'ed at that."I highly doubt it. Storm Dragon Veldora has a long history of causing pain and destruction to humans."

Yazabi pursed her lips in doubt."I dunno. The creator and brother to Veldora, Star King Dragon Veldanava must've at least taught him some common decency. I put the blame to his destructive tendencies on the fact that he's the Storm Dragon. That shit must be hard to control, especially for juveniles. Something must've started his chain of destruction. Maybe his elder sisters? I know sisters can be quite scary. What more if your sister was a dragon? That's gotta trigger some of Veldora's basic survival instincts, which could lead to him losing what control he has over his magicules, leading to explosive outbursts that gave him the moniker 'Evil Dragon'."

"Why are you so keen on defending someone who's essentially a stranger to you?" Hinata is growing very frustrated of Yazabi's penchant for kindness showin up when it's not needed."I'm not defending him or his actions. I'm just looking to understand why he did what he did. It's always important to understand why big things happen, or why drastic actions are taken. Also, I find it suspicious how there was a period of peace where Veldora had settled down into what is now the Forest of Jura before attacking Old Ruberios out of nowhere. I feel like some foul play from Ruberios is afoot right there." Hinata raised an eyebrow at that."And you think whatever Ruberios did to wrong Veldora is enough to warrant its destruction?"

"Boy, I hope not. Its not good, but it would be objectively better if Veldora destroyed Ruberios for a petty reason. If not, I shudder to think of what wrongdoing Ruberios did to warrant its destruction. There are three things all wise men fear: a stormy night, a moonless night, and the anger of a peaceful man. What could push the dragon who was peaceful all along to truly commit to destroying an entire settlement?" Hinata hated how Yazabi was making assumptions on old wounds with good basis."I hate how you make such good points on previously-resolved issues." "Were they truly resolved to begin with?" "Enough, you already placed way too much mental baggage on me. Save the others for some time else." Yazabi paused before sighing and nodding.

That entire night, they exchanged almost no more words, eating in comfortable (or uncomfortable in Yazabi's case, because she is unused to eating such bland meals) silence, and preparing for bed. Luckily for Yazabi, and although expensive, toothpaste and soap exists in this world and Hinata is payed well enough to comfortably buy them. Otherwise, the night wouldn't be so quiet. Then, bedtime came. Yazabi came up with a brilliant idea to decide who sleeps where."Rock, paper, scissor. Loser sleeps on the couch." Hinata tried to compromise instead."I have a feeling you would deny me just handing over the bed to you just like that. So how about we both sleep on the bed together. I can't let a homeless guest stay on the couch, not when I can adjust for them." Yazabi looked a bit surprised at that, but then smiled tenderly at her, making her feel flustered."You are a lot kinder than you look. Thank you." Hinata never expected for Yazabi to be such a complex character, but in typical Hinata fashion, she recomposes herself quickly."Don't mention it. Literally don't mention it." She does not want word of this getting out. Yazabi merely gives her a thumbs-up before she lied down on the bed, Hinata following suit."Good night, Hinata." "Good night, Yazabi."

They both drifted off into a blissful sleep soon after.