Gdv3
# Throne of No Equal: The God of Destruction Walks the Root
## Chapter 6 (Continued): Face to Face with the Void
"Ah, there it is," Viyrim nodded sagely. "The villainous monologue about perfecting an imperfect reality. I was wondering when we'd get to that part." He floated casually within the void, seemingly unaffected by the consuming darkness around him. "You cosmic parasites are so predictable it's almost endearing."
The void-figure rippled with what might have been indignation. **"YOU MOCK WHAT YOU DO NOT COMPREHEND, DESTROYER. I OFFER TRANSCENDENCE—A REALITY BEYOND THE FLAWED CONSTRUCT YOU NOW INHABIT."**
"I've seen thousands of realities," Viyrim countered, his golden eyes gleaming with ancient knowledge. "Some pristine, some corrupted, some barely functional. None of them needed a self-important void entity deciding their fate." He continued his careful movement through the darkness, sensing he was getting closer to something vital. "And speaking of things I don't comprehend—where's the girl? The Einzbern Master?"
The darkness pulsed, almost like a chuckle. **"THE VESSEL? SHE SERVES HER PURPOSE. THE EINZBERNS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN MY UNWITTING CULTIVATORS."**
"Not what I asked," Viyrim's voice hardened slightly. "Where is she?"
In response, the darkness parted briefly, revealing a disturbing tableau. Suspended within the void was Illyasviel, unconscious or perhaps in some form of stasis. Around her, like a protective cage, knelt Berserker—the mighty Heracles frozen in a desperate attempt to shield his Master. Both figures were partially consumed by the void, tendrils of darkness weaving through their forms as if gradually assimilating them.
"Interesting choice of hostages," Viyrim observed, though his casual tone now held an undertone of genuine anger. "You picked the one human in this reality I actually find somewhat likable, and the one Servant with enough divine heritage to sense exactly what you are."
**"THEY ARE NOT HOSTAGES. THEY ARE COMPONENTS. CATALYSTS. AS ARE YOU."** The void entity expanded, surrounding Viyrim more completely. **"JOIN WITH ME WILLINGLY, DESTROYER GOD. CONTRIBUTE YOUR UNIQUE ENERGIES TO THE TRANSCENDENCE. OR WATCH AS I CONSUME THIS REALITY PIECE BY PIECE, STARTING WITH THOSE YOU HAVE DEEMED WORTHY OF YOUR ATTENTION."**
"Classic villain ultimatum," Viyrim sighed. "Join me or watch your friends suffer. Very original." He stretched lazily, though his eyes never left the suspended forms of Illya and Berserker. "Just one problem with your plan."
**"AND WHAT IS THAT, DESTROYER?"**
Viyrim smiled, a predatory expression that would have sent shivers down the spine of any being capable of feeling fear. "I've been stalling while pinpointing your core. And I just found it."
Without warning, Viyrim's form blurred with impossible speed. He shot through the void like a purple comet, his hand outstretched toward a point of absolute darkness that somehow seemed darker than the surrounding void—a singularity of non-existence hidden within the larger manifestation.
The void entity shrieked with conceptual outrage, tendrils of darkness lashing out to intercept him. But Viyrim was already there, his hand plunging into the core of the entity.
"Let's see what you're really made of," he muttered, his own destruction energy flowing through his arm and into the void's heart.
For a moment, the entire pocket dimension of darkness froze. Then, like oil meeting water, the two fundamentally different forms of destruction energy reacted violently. Viyrim's controlled, purposeful destruction clashed with the void's entropic erasure. The result was a conceptual explosion that rippled outward in waves of purple-black energy.
**"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?"** the void entity howled, its form destabilizing as Viyrim's energy contaminated its core.
"Introduced a little chaos into your system," Viyrim explained casually, though the effort of maintaining his position at the void's heart was evident in the slight strain in his voice. "My destruction energy doesn't erase—it breaks down and recycles. Fundamentally incompatible with your whole 'erase everything from existence' approach."
The void writhed and contorted, its previously smooth darkness fracturing into jagged shards of non-reality. **"THIS CHANGES NOTHING. I WILL ADAPT. CONSUME. GROW STRONGER."**
"Maybe," Viyrim acknowledged. "But it buys me enough time to do this."
With a swift motion, he extended his other hand toward Illya and Berserker. A pulse of purple energy shot from his palm, enveloping both figures and severing the void tendrils attempting to assimilate them. In the same movement, he pulled them toward him, catching Illya's small form with surprising gentleness while Berserker's massive body floated beside them.
"Now," Viyrim addressed the destabilizing void, "we're going to have a more balanced conversation. Without hostages, without ultimatums. Just you, me, and the reality you're trying to erase."
The void entity seemed to gather itself, the fractures in its darkness slowly stabilizing as it adjusted to Viyrim's energy contamination. **"IMPRESSIVE, DESTROYER. FEW BEINGS COULD TOUCH MY CORE AND SURVIVE, MUCH LESS RESCUE OTHERS FROM MY GRASP."**
"I'm not most beings," Viyrim replied simply. With Illya secured in one arm, he placed his free hand on Berserker's chest. A pulse of energy flowed into the Servant, purging the void contamination. The massive hero's eyes flickered open, confusion quickly replaced by rage as he registered the situation.
"Easy, big guy," Viyrim cautioned. "We're in a pretty delicate situation here. Your Master is safe but unconscious." He transferred Illya to Berserker's massive arms. "I need you to get her out of here while I deal with our void friend."
Berserker growled, clearly torn between his instinct to protect Illya by removing her from danger and his heroic nature that demanded he stay and fight.
"Trust me," Viyrim added, meeting the Berserker's rage-filled eyes with calm certainty. "This isn't a fight you can win. But you can save her."
After a moment of internal struggle, Berserker nodded once, clutching Illya protectively to his chest.
"Exit's that way," Viyrim pointed toward what seemed like undifferentiated darkness. "Just head straight for about thirty seconds. You'll feel the barrier Vados created—she'll let you through."
With another acknowledging growl, Berserker turned and charged into the darkness, his divine heritage and Viyrim's energy purge allowing him to navigate the void where ordinary beings would be lost forever.
Once they were gone, Viyrim turned his full attention back to the void entity, which had used the distraction to reconsolidate itself into a more defined form—now resembling a towering humanoid composed of swirling darkness with gleaming points of anti-light for eyes.
**"THEIR ESCAPE IS TEMPORARY. ALL WILL BE CONSUMED IN TIME."**
"You're really committed to the ominous cosmic villain dialogue, aren't you?" Viyrim observed with a slight smile. "Let's cut to the chase. You've been gestating in the Holy Grail, feeding on corrupted wishes and divine energies. You emerged when I arrived because my unique destruction energy could help you transcend the limitations of this reality. Did I miss anything important?"
The void seemed momentarily taken aback by this direct summary. **"YOU COMPREHEND MORE THAN I ANTICIPATED."**
"I've been doing this for a very long time," Viyrim shrugged. "Cosmic threats tend to follow certain patterns. The real question is—what are you going to do now that your initial plan has failed?"
**"FAILED?"** The void entity expanded, the darkness growing more intense. **"THIS IS MERELY ADAPTATION. EVOLUTION. THE CYCLE CONTINUES."**
Viyrim sighed deeply. "And now we're into the 'this isn't even my final form' phase. Wonderful." He stretched casually, purple energy crackling around his form. "Look, I'm going to make this simple. You have two choices: retreat back into whatever dimensional pocket you crawled out from and leave this reality alone, or force me to get serious about destroying you. And trust me—" his golden eyes gleamed with ancient power "—you don't want to see me get serious."
For a moment, the void seemed to consider this ultimatum, its swirling darkness slowing as if in contemplation. Then, without warning, it struck.
Tendrils of absolute darkness shot toward Viyrim from every direction simultaneously—not attempting to consume him as before, but to pierce, to sever, to remove him from existence entirely. The attack came with such speed that even beings with divine reflexes would have been instantly erased.
Viyrim didn't move. He didn't even flinch. The void tendrils struck his form and... dissolved, purple energy rippling out from the points of impact.
"That," he said calmly, "was your answer, I take it?"
**"IMPOSSIBLE,"** the void entity hissed. **"NOTHING RESISTS THE FINAL NULL."**
"I'm not nothing," Viyrim replied simply. "I'm the God of Destruction. The real thing—not some parasitic entity feeding on cosmic leftovers and calling itself ultimate entropy." His expression hardened. "And you just made a very poor decision."
With that, Viyrim finally dropped his casual demeanor. His form straightened, his lazily slouched posture replaced by the perfect poise of a being who had mastered destruction across countless dimensions. Purple energy exploded outward from his body, not wild or uncontrolled, but precisely directed, forming a perfect sphere around him that expanded with methodical purpose.
"I was born without limitation," Viyrim stated, his voice now carrying the weight of his true nature. "Trained by an Angel, recognized by Zeno himself. My destruction isn't chaos or entropy or erasure. It's purpose. Balance. Renewal." With each statement, the sphere of energy expanded further, pushing back the void. "You call yourself the Final Null? I am the True End—the necessary conclusion that allows for new beginnings."
The void entity shrieked, its darkness fragmenting wherever Viyrim's energy touched it. **"THIS REALITY IS FLAWED. BROKEN. UNWORTHY OF CONTINUATION."**
"Not your call to make," Viyrim replied simply. "That's my job. And I rather like this reality. The food is excellent, the beds are comfortable, and the people are entertainingly complicated." His energy sphere continued expanding, methodically consuming the void as it grew. "Also, you tried to kill the kid who gave me a castle to stay in. That's just rude."
The void entity thrashed desperately, attempting to retreat from Viyrim's inexorable advance. **"YOU CANNOT DESTROY ME COMPLETELY. I AM WOVEN INTO THE FABRIC OF THIS REALITY. I WILL RETURN. REFORM. STRONGER."**
"Probably," Viyrim acknowledged. "Few things are ever permanently destroyed. That's not how the cosmic cycle works." He raised one hand, a sphere of concentrated destruction energy forming above his palm. "But I can ensure you won't be bothering anyone for a very, very long time."
With a casual flick of his wrist, Viyrim launched the energy sphere into the heart of the retreating void. Upon impact, it detonated with a conceptual force that transcended physical laws—a focused big bang of destruction energy that didn't annihilate the void entity but instead broke it down to its most fundamental components, scattering them across dimensional boundaries.
**"THIS... IS NOT... THE END..."** the void's voice faded as its consciousness dispersed.
"They always say that," Viyrim sighed, returning to his usual relaxed posture as the immediate threat dissipated. "Just once I'd like to hear, 'Wow, you got me good, I'm completely destroyed, have a nice day.'"
With the void entity dispersed, the darkness began to recede rapidly. Viyrim found himself standing in the ruins of the Einzbern Castle's great hall, the elaborate architecture now reduced to crumbling stone and shattered glass. Sunlight streamed through the broken roof, illuminating the devastation with inappropriate cheerfulness.
"Well," he observed to no one in particular, "that's going to require some serious redecorating."
---
Outside the Einzbern estate, a tense group had gathered at the perimeter of Vados's containment barrier. The Masters and Servants from the Holy Grail War stood alongside the three goddesses who had allied themselves with Viyrim. Even Void Shiki had materialized to observe, her empty eyes fixed on the dome of energy with uncharacteristic focus.
"The darkness is receding," Archer noted, his keen eyes detecting the subtle change before the others. "Something's happening."
"Lord Viyrim has engaged the entity directly," Vados explained, her staff pulsing as she maintained the barrier. "The conceptual conflict is destabilizing the void manifestation."
"Will he be able to defeat it?" Rin asked, clutching her injured arm. "That thing... it wasn't just destroying things. It was erasing them from existence entirely."
"My lord specializes in dealing with cosmic threats," Vados replied with serene confidence. "This entity, while formidable, is not beyond his capabilities."
"Look!" Tamamo exclaimed, her fox ears perking up. "Something's coming through the barrier!"
All eyes turned to a point where Vados's energy dome seemed to ripple and part. Through this opening charged Berserker, Illya's small form clutched protectively against his massive chest. The heroic spirit looked battered but determined, his red eyes scanning the gathered group until he spotted Shirou and Saber.
With surprising gentleness for a being consumed by madness enhancement, Berserker approached and carefully transferred Illya to Shirou's arms.
"She's alive," Shirou confirmed after a quick examination. "Unconscious, but I don't see any injuries."
"What about Viyrim?" Ishtar demanded, stepping forward. Her usual confidence was marred by genuine concern. "Is he still in there?"
Berserker growled what might have been confirmation, gesturing back toward the barrier with one massive hand.
"He's fighting the entity," Kama translated, somehow understanding the Berserker's limited communication. "Alone."
"Fool," Ishtar muttered, though there was more worry than criticism in her tone. "Even gods shouldn't face such entropy alone."
"He's not alone," Vados corrected gently. "My lord is never truly alone. His connection to destruction transcends dimensional boundaries."
Before anyone could respond to this cryptic statement, a pulse of energy rippled through the barrier—not breaking it, but resonating with it in perfect harmony. The dome shimmered, then began to dissipate as Vados lowered her staff.
"It is done," she announced. "The immediate threat has been neutralized."
As the barrier faded completely, the full extent of the damage became visible. Where the proud Einzbern Castle had once stood, only a partial ruin remained—perhaps a third of the structure still standing, the rest reduced to rubble or simply... gone. The surrounding forest showed a clear demarcation line where the void's advance had been halted, trees on one side perfectly intact, on the other side absent as if they had never existed.
And in the center of this devastation stood Viyrim, looking remarkably unruffled despite having just faced what appeared to be an existential threat to reality itself. He was floating slightly above the ground, surveying the damage with a critical eye, hands clasped behind his back.
"Viyrim!" Ishtar called out, being the first to break from the stunned group. She flew toward him with uncharacteristic abandon, her dignity temporarily forgotten in apparent relief. "You actually defeated it!"
"Temporarily dispersed it," Viyrim corrected as she reached him. "Entities like that are rarely destroyed permanently. But it won't be bothering anyone for a few centuries at least."
Before he could elaborate further, he found himself surrounded. Ishtar hovered directly before him, her ruby eyes scanning him for injuries. Kama materialized on his right, her usual seductive demeanor replaced by genuine concern as she reached out to touch his arm, confirming his solidity. Tamamo approached from the left, her fox tails bristling with agitation and relief.
"You're not even injured," Kama observed with a mix of admiration and exasperation. "You faced the Final Null and emerged without a scratch."
"I'm very good at my job," Viyrim shrugged, though a hint of a smile played at the corners of his mouth. "Though I am sorry about the castle. It had very comfortable beds."
This understatement in the face of cosmic catastrophe startled a laugh from the assembled goddesses. The tension broke, relief flooding through the group as they realized the immediate danger had truly passed.
The mortal Masters approached more cautiously, Shirou still carrying the unconscious Illya, Rin supported by Archer, Sakura following quietly behind them with Rider at her side.
"What was that thing?" Shirou asked, his voice still shaken. "And why did it emerge now?"
"The entity called itself the Final Null," Viyrim explained, his tone more serious than usual. "It's been gestating inside the Holy Grail for generations, feeding on the corrupted energies and wishes channeled through it. My arrival apparently triggered its emergence—something about my unique destruction energy being the catalyst it needed."
"Connected to the prophecy," Void Shiki observed, materializing beside the group with her usual disregard for physical space. "The Limitless Void of Endless Night."
"Probably," Viyrim acknowledged. "Though prophecies are tricky things. They describe possibilities, not certainties."
"But you defeated it," Rin pointed out. "Does that mean the prophecy was wrong? Or that you fulfilled the positive interpretation?"
Viyrim shook his head. "The entity isn't completely destroyed. Its consciousness has been dispersed across dimensional boundaries, but its essence remains connected to this reality. It can reform, given enough time and the right conditions."
"So the threat remains," Archer concluded grimly.
"The threat always remains," Viyrim replied with surprising philosophical depth. "That's the nature of cosmic balance. Light and dark, creation and destruction, existence and void—they're cyclical, not linear."
A soft moan interrupted their discussion as Illya stirred in Shirou's arms, her crimson eyes fluttering open. She looked around in confusion, taking in the ruins of her ancestral home and the gathered group.
"What... happened?" she asked weakly.
"Your castle got partially eaten by a cosmic void entity," Viyrim informed her casually. "Sorry about that. On the plus side, you're not dead, and neither is your oversized bodyguard."
Illya blinked, processing this information with remarkable composure for someone who had just regained consciousness after being partially assimilated by an existential threat.
"The Holy Grail?" she inquired, concern evident in her voice.
"Dispersed along with the entity," Vados answered. "The corruption had become too deeply integrated with the Grail's fundamental structure."
"So the War is... over?" Illya looked around at the assembled Masters and Servants, the implications slowly dawning on her.
"In its traditional form, yes," Viyrim confirmed. "Hard to fight for a wish-granting cup that no longer exists."
This revelation sent ripples of reaction through the group. Some looked relieved, others disappointed, and a few—particularly Kirei Kotomine, who had arrived silently during the commotion—seemed darkly calculating.
"What happens now?" Sakura asked quietly, the question hanging heavy in the air.
Viyrim stretched lazily, already returning to his usual casual demeanor now that the immediate crisis had passed. "Now? Personally, I'm thinking lunch. Cosmic battles always make me hungry."
The incongruity of this response after such world-shaking events startled another laugh from several members of the group. Even Archer's usually stern expression cracked slightly.
"But really," Viyrim continued, floating down to stand on the rubble-strewn ground. "What happens now is up to all of you. The Holy Grail War as you knew it is over, but that doesn't mean your stories end here."
"Without the Grail, the Servants will eventually fade," Rin pointed out, her analytical mind already working through the implications. "Their anchor to this reality depends on the Greater Grail's framework."
"Not necessarily," Viyrim countered with a mysterious smile. "The rules of your reality are more... flexible than you might think. Especially with the right influence."
Before anyone could question this cryptic statement, Amaterasu herself materialized among them, her divine radiance momentarily blinding in the afternoon sun.
"The divine council has felt the dispersal of the void entity," she announced, her melodious voice carrying across the ruined grounds. "Well done, God of Destruction. Few beings could have accomplished such a feat without destroying the surrounding reality in the process."
"Just doing my job," Viyrim shrugged, though his posture straightened slightly in the presence of the sun goddess. "Though I should point out that your reality had a pretty significant parasite problem. Might want to look into how that happened."
"Indeed," Amaterasu acknowledged with surprising humility. "The divine council has much to reconsider regarding our vigilance and the true nature of the Holy Grail Wars." She surveyed the assembled group, her gaze lingering on Ishtar, Kama, and Tamamo with an unreadable expression. "For now, however, there is the matter of your accommodation to address."
"Good point," Viyrim nodded, glancing at the ruins of the castle. "I seem to be temporarily homeless. Again."
"The divine council has prepared suitable lodgings," Amaterasu informed him. "A traditional Japanese estate in the sacred mountains, warded against both mortal and divine intrusion. You will have privacy, comfort, and security for the remainder of your stay in our reality."
"That's... surprisingly thoughtful," Viyrim observed, studying the sun goddess with mild suspicion. "What's the catch?"
Amaterasu's perfect lips curved into a slight smile. "The divine council wishes to continue our... diplomatic relationship. Your handling of the void entity has demonstrated both your power and your restraint—qualities we value highly."
"Political maneuvering," Kama murmured, just loud enough for Viyrim to hear. "They want to keep you where they can monitor you, while appearing generous."
"Obviously," Viyrim replied quietly before addressing Amaterasu again. "I accept your offer, with one condition—my current companions are welcome to join me if they wish." He gestured to Vados, then to the three goddesses who had allied themselves with him.
Amaterasu's expression flickered briefly—a momentary indication that this condition was unexpected, though not entirely unwelcome. "Of course. The estate is more than large enough to accommodate your... entourage."
"Excellent," Viyrim smiled, noticing the slight tension in the sun goddess's response. "When can we see this place? I'm particularly interested in the bathing facilities. The Einzbern Castle had an excellent bath."
"Immediately, if you wish," Amaterasu offered, regaining her composure. "Or after you have concluded your business here."
Viyrim turned to the gathered Masters and Servants, his expression softening slightly. "I should make sure everyone here is taken care of first. Particularly our hostess," he nodded toward Illya, who had insisted on standing on her own despite Shirou's concerned protests.
"I'll be fine," Illya assured him, though she looked pale and exhausted. "The Einzbern family has other properties. Smaller, but adequate."
"Still, I feel responsible," Viyrim insisted. "Your castle got eaten because a cosmic entity was waiting specifically for me."
"Then you can make it up to me," Illya suggested with unexpected mischief in her tired eyes. "Once I've secured new accommodations, you'll owe me a proper visit. With appropriate offerings of cake."
"Deal," Viyrim agreed with a genuine smile. "Cosmic entities always pay their debts. Especially when cake is involved."
With immediate concerns addressed and plans made for relocation, the diverse group began to disperse. The Masters and Servants headed back toward the city, their relationships fundamentally altered by the shared experience of facing an existential threat. Amaterasu returned to the divine council to report, promising to send guides for Viyrim and his companions within the hour.
As evening approached, Viyrim found himself standing amid the ruins of the once-grand castle, watching the sunset paint the devastation in shades of gold and crimson. Vados stood slightly behind him, her staff glowing softly in the fading light.
"A most eventful day, my lord," she observed. "Even by your standards."
"Indeed," Viyrim agreed, unusually thoughtful. "Though I can't shake the feeling that we've only seen the opening act of whatever cosmic drama is unfolding in this reality."
"The prophecy did seem to imply an ongoing role for you," Vados noted. "The Lazy Storm must choose its path—Creation's shield or entropy's wrath."
"Poetic, but annoyingly vague," Viyrim complained, returning to his more familiar complaining tone. "Would it kill these cosmic prophets to write in plain language for once? 'Hey, destructive guy, there's a void entity in the Grail, maybe deal with that before it eats reality.' Simple, direct, no interpretive dance required."
Vados smiled slightly at his grumbling. "Perhaps prophecies are deliberately obfuscated to prevent paradoxical interference."
"Or perhaps cosmic entities just have a terrible sense of humor," Viyrim countered. He stretched languidly in the fading light. "Anyway, I'm looking forward to these new accommodations. After dispersing void entities across dimensional boundaries, I definitely need a proper bath."
"And what of your... expanded entourage?" Vados inquired delicately. "The divine ladies seem quite invested in maintaining their proximity to you."
Viyrim glanced toward the edge of the ruins where Ishtar, Kama, and Tamamo were engaged in what appeared to be a quietly intense conversation, complete with occasional glares and gestures in his direction.
"They're interesting," he admitted. "Each powerful in their own right, each with their own agenda, yet willing to form an unlikely alliance when it suits them. I find that kind of complexity entertaining."
"And the fact that they're all extraordinarily beautiful by this reality's standards has nothing to do with your assessment?" Vados suggested with rare teasing.
Viyrim actually looked slightly embarrassed—an expression so unusual on his face that Vados had to suppress a laugh. "Aesthetic appreciation is a natural response across all sentient species," he muttered defensively. "But it's their divine qualities that make them truly interesting. Each represents a different approach to existence itself."
"Of course, my lord," Vados agreed, her tone suggesting she wasn't entirely convinced by his philosophical justification.
Before Viyrim could respond, the three goddesses approached, having apparently reached some form of agreement in their private discussion.
"We've decided," Ishtar announced without preamble, "that all three of us will accompany you to this divine estate."
"How presumptuous of you to assume you were invited," Viyrim replied dryly, though his expression suggested he had expected nothing less.
"You specifically included us in your condition to Amaterasu," Kama pointed out, her crimson eyes gleaming with amusement. "Unless you meant some other divine companions we're unaware of?"
"Perhaps he's collecting goddesses," Tamamo suggested mischievously, her fox tails swishing behind her. "A hobby for an entity who has seen everything else the multiverse has to offer."
"If I were collecting goddesses, I'd be more selective," Viyrim countered, though a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "Quality over quantity and all that."
"Are you suggesting we lack quality?" Ishtar demanded, her divine aura flaring with indignation.
"I'm suggesting that if three divine beings need to form an alliance just to keep up with me, perhaps none of you individually qualified for my hypothetical collection," Viyrim explained with exaggerated patience.
This statement was met with three very different reactions: Ishtar looked outraged, Kama appeared intrigued by the challenge, and Tamamo laughed outright.
"He's teasing us," the fox goddess realized. "The God of Destruction is actually making jokes."
"Cosmic destruction and universal cataclysm is so serious all the time," Viyrim shrugged. "Sometimes you need to lighten the mood."
Their banter was interrupted by the arrival of the promised divine guides—minor kami in the form of celestial cranes who bowed respectfully to the assembled deities.
"We are sent by the divine council to escort the honored guests to the Sacred Mountain Estate," one announced formally. "If you would please follow us, we have prepared a dimensional pathway to expedite your journey."
"Lead on," Viyrim nodded, gathering his minimal personal effects. "Let's see if these divine accommodations live up to the hype."
As they prepared to depart, Viyrim cast one last glance at the ruined castle and the devastation left by the void entity. Something told him that despite today's victory, his true purpose in this reality was just beginning to unfold. The prophecy, the void entity's cryptic statements, the unexpected alliances forming around him—all suggested a cosmic pattern still taking shape.
But for now, at least, there was the promise of a comfortable bed, excellent food, and the entertaining company of divine beings who found him as fascinating as he found them. In a multiverse full of cosmic responsibilities, sometimes those simple pleasures were enough.
## Chapter 7: Divine Mountain Retreat
The Sacred Mountain Estate exceeded even Viyrim's expectations, which was saying something for a being who had visited thousands of dimensions and experienced the height of luxury across multiple cosmic civilizations.
Situated high in Japan's sacred mountains, the estate was a masterpiece of traditional architecture expanded to divine proportions. The main building was an elegant structure of dark wood and paper screens, with sweeping roofs that curved gracefully toward the sky. Surrounding it were meticulously maintained gardens, complete with koi ponds, stone lanterns, and cherry trees in perpetual bloom regardless of season. The entire complex was nestled within a valley that somehow existed slightly adjacent to normal reality—visible from the mortal world yet untouchable without specific invitation.
"Not bad," Viyrim acknowledged as they materialized at the main entrance, a massive torii gate carved from ancient wood that radiated subtle divine energy. "Your council has good taste in real estate, at least."
"The Sacred Mountain Estate has hosted divine beings for millennia," one of their crane guides explained proudly. "It exists in harmony with the surrounding nature spirits while providing all comforts appropriate for entities of your stature."
"I'm most interested in the bathing facilities," Viyrim declared, already floating toward the main building. "Cosmic battles leave you feeling surprisingly grimy."
"Of course, my lord," the guide bowed. "The estate features natural hot springs enhanced with divine minerals. They are said to rejuvenate even immortal essences."
"Now you're speaking my language," Viyrim approved.
The interior of the estate was even more impressive than its exterior. Rooms flowed into one another with perfect feng shui, the spaces somehow both vast and intimate simultaneously. The furnishings were minimal but exquisite—priceless artifacts from various historical periods arranged with casual perfection. Most impressively, the building seemed to adapt subtly to its occupants' preferences, rooms shifting and realigning to create optimal comfort for each divine visitor.
After a brief tour, during which Viyrim paid attention only to the locations of the kitchen, bathing areas, and bedrooms (in that order of priority), the guides departed with formal bows, leaving the unusual group to settle into their new accommodations.
"I claim this wing," Ishtar announced immediately, gesturing toward the eastern section of the estate that faced the rising sun. "It suits my divine nature."
"How predictable," Kama commented, her crimson eyes surveying the options with calculated interest. "I'll take the southern wing. The gardens there have night-blooming flowers that resonate with my essence."
"The northern section calls to me," Tamamo decided, her fox ears twitching as she sensed the energy flows. "The boundary between human and spirit realms is thinnest there."
Viyrim watched this territorial division with amused detachment. "And no one thought to ask where I might prefer to stay?"
All three goddesses turned to him with expressions ranging from surprise to calculation.
"We assumed you would take the central chambers," Ishtar explained, as if it were obvious. "They're clearly designed for the primary occupant—larger, more elaborate, with the best access to the hot springs."
"How thoughtful of you to decide for me," Viyrim observed dryly. "Though in this case, you're not wrong. The central chambers do look most comfortable for napping."
Vados, who had remained characteristically serene throughout the tour and territory negotiations, finally spoke up. "Perhaps we should allow Lord Viyrim to refresh himself after today's exertions. I believe he mentioned particular interest in the bathing facilities."
"An excellent suggestion," Viyrim agreed, already heading toward the private onsen attached to the central chambers. "I'll see you all at dinner. I assume this place comes with divine catering?"
"The kitchen is stocked with ingredients from both mortal and divine realms," Tamamo confirmed. "And I am quite skilled at traditional Japanese cuisine, if I do say so myself."
"I can prepare Mesopotamian delicacies that haven't # Throne of No Equal: The God of Destruction Walks the Root
## Chapter 7 (Continued): Divine Mountain Retreat
"I can prepare Mesopotamian delicacies that haven't been tasted by mortal tongues in millennia," Ishtar countered, not to be outdone.
"And I," Kama purred, "can create desserts infused with the essence of desire itself. One bite brings pleasure beyond mortal comprehension."
Viyrim looked between the three goddesses, each trying to outdo the others with increasingly elaborate culinary promises. "How about we take turns? Tonight can be Japanese, tomorrow Mesopotamian, and the following day... whatever divine desire food is."
"A diplomatic solution," Vados observed approvingly.
"I try," Viyrim shrugged. "Food is too important to become a divine battleground." With that, he disappeared into his chambers, leaving the three goddesses exchanging competitive glances.
The private onsen attached to Viyrim's quarters was a marvel of divine architecture. Built around a natural hot spring, it featured smooth stone pools of varying temperatures, all overlooking a secluded valley that seemed to exist in perpetual twilight—the most flattering lighting for relaxation. Steam rose in gentle clouds, scented with minerals that promised rejuvenation even for immortal beings.
Viyrim discarded his robes and slipped into the hottest pool with a satisfied sigh. The water seemed to recognize his unique energy, adjusting its properties to provide the perfect balance of relaxation and invigoration.
"Now this," he murmured to himself, "is worth visiting other dimensions for."
He closed his eyes, allowing his body to float naturally in the mineral-rich water. The events of the day—the divine council, the void entity, the prophecy—all seemed to drift away with the rising steam. For a being who valued good naps and comfortable relaxation above almost everything else, this onsen was practically paradise.
His peaceful solitude lasted approximately eight minutes.
"Is the water to your satisfaction, Lord Destroyer?" came a melodious voice that definitely didn't belong to Vados.
Viyrim cracked one eye open to find Tamamo kneeling beside the pool, dressed in nothing but a small towel that did little to conceal her perfect form. Her fox ears twitched attentively as she leaned forward, a small sake cup in her hands.
"The proper etiquette," she continued, seemingly oblivious to his surprise, "is to enjoy sake with your bath. I've brought the finest rice wine from the divine cellars."
"The proper etiquette," Viyrim countered, "usually involves knocking before entering someone's private bath."
Tamamo smiled, unrepentant. "Divine beings have different standards of privacy than mortals. Besides, I am merely fulfilling my role as hostess for tonight's meal."
"Is the sake delivery service included in that role?" Viyrim asked dryly, though he accepted the offered cup.
"Of course. It would be neglectful to allow our honored guest to bathe without proper refreshment."
Before Viyrim could respond to this dubious justification, another voice joined the conversation.
"How predictable, Tamamo. Using Japanese cultural traditions as an excuse to intrude," Ishtar commented as she sauntered into the bathing area. Like Tamamo, she wore only the barest minimum of covering—in her case, a golden silk wrap that seemed designed to enhance rather than conceal.
"I was simply being hospitable," Tamamo defended, her tails bristling slightly. "Unlike some who barge in without even the pretense of bringing refreshments."
"I don't need pretense," Ishtar replied with divine confidence. "As a goddess of love and fertility, bathing rituals fall under my domain." She turned to Viyrim with a brilliant smile. "The ancient Mesopotamians understood that communal bathing was essential for proper divine respect."
"How fascinating," came a third voice as Kama materialized from the steam itself, her form coalescing like a sensual apparition. "Though the traditions of desire I represent suggest that true bathing pleasure comes not from crowds, but from... intimate attention."
Viyrim looked between the three divine visitors, each trying to outdo the others with increasingly transparent excuses for their intrusion. Rather than appearing flustered or annoyed, he seemed mostly amused by their competitive behavior.
"Ladies," he finally said, sipping the sake Tamamo had provided, "while I appreciate your... cultural education, I'm actually quite capable of bathing myself. Been doing it successfully for eons."
"But surely a God of Destruction deserves attendants," Tamamo suggested, her fox ears perking up hopefully.
"Especially after such an impressive display of power against the void entity," Ishtar added, moving closer to the pool's edge.
"The dispersal of cosmic entropy would leave residual tension in even divine muscles," Kama observed, her eyes gleaming with mischievous intent. "Tension that could be... relieved."
Viyrim couldn't help but laugh at their persistence. "You three are relentless. Is this how you treat all cosmic visitors, or am I receiving special attention?"
"Special attention, definitely," Ishtar confirmed without hesitation. "Few beings warrant the combined interest of three goddesses from different pantheons."
"You should be flattered," Tamamo agreed. "Historical records show we've never agreed on anything before, yet here we are, united in our... appreciation."
"Appreciation," Viyrim repeated skeptically. "Is that what we're calling it?"
"What would you prefer to call it?" Kama asked with a sly smile.
Before Viyrim could answer, a familiar tap of a staff against stone announced Vados's arrival. The angel attendant took in the scene with a raised eyebrow but otherwise showed no surprise at finding her master surrounded by scantily clad goddesses.
"I apologize for the interruption," she said formally, "but there is a matter requiring Lord Viyrim's attention."
"Can't it wait?" Viyrim asked, genuinely reluctant to leave the perfect bath. "I was just starting to enjoy the... cultural exchange."
"I'm afraid not, my lord. A messenger has arrived from the Clock Tower—the human mage organization. They're requesting an audience regarding the aftereffects of the void entity's manifestation."
Viyrim sighed dramatically. "Always something. Fine, tell them I'll meet with them... tomorrow. Or the next day. Whenever I feel like it."
"I've already scheduled the meeting for tomorrow afternoon," Vados replied, ignoring his grumbling. "It seemed prudent, given the potential implications for human-divine relations."
"You're too efficient sometimes," Viyrim complained, though there was no real heat in his words. "Fine, tomorrow it is." He turned back to the three goddesses. "Ladies, as entertaining as this impromptu bath party has been, duty calls. Or at least it will tomorrow, which means I need my rest."
The goddesses exchanged glances, clearly disappointed but not surprised by the dismissal. With varying degrees of grace, they retreated from the bathing area, each promising to outdo the others with the evening's culinary offerings.
Once they were gone, Viyrim gave Vados a knowing look. "There wasn't really an urgent message, was there?"
"There is indeed a request from the Clock Tower," Vados confirmed. "However, the urgency was perhaps... emphasized to provide you with a diplomatic exit strategy."
Viyrim grinned. "Always looking out for me. Though I'm not entirely sure I wanted rescuing."
"I observed the situation and made a judgment call," Vados replied with serene professionalism. "Three competing divine entities in an enclosed space with supernatural powers and minimal clothing seemed... potentially volatile."
"Fair point," Viyrim acknowledged, rising from the bath and accepting the towel Vados offered. "Though I suspect we haven't seen the last of their, ah, 'cultural education' attempts."
"Indeed, my lord. I believe this is only the beginning of what promises to be a most unusual divine retreat."
---
Dinner that evening proved Vados's prediction correct. Tamamo, determined to showcase her superior hosting skills, had transformed the estate's dining hall into a traditional Japanese banquet setting. Low tables of polished wood gleamed in the light of paper lanterns, while seasonal flowers and bonsai trees created an atmosphere of refined elegance.
The meal itself was a masterpiece of Japanese cuisine—dishes that seemed simple at first glance but revealed extraordinary complexity with each bite. Perfectly grilled fish, delicate tempura, exquisite sashimi arranged like jewels on beds of ice, and steaming bowls of fragrant soup that somehow combined mortal ingredients with subtle hints of divine essence.
"This is... exceptional," Viyrim admitted between bites of what appeared to be ordinary sea bream but tasted like the distilled essence of ocean depths no mortal had ever explored. "You've outdone yourself, Tamamo."
The fox goddess beamed with pride, her multiple tails swishing happily behind her. "Traditional Japanese cuisine focuses on enhancing natural flavors rather than masking them," she explained. "The true art lies in selecting perfect ingredients and preparing them with respect for their essential nature."
"A philosophy I can appreciate," Viyrim nodded. "Too many cultures try to complicate food unnecessarily."
Ishtar, watching Tamamo bask in Viyrim's approval, subtly narrowed her eyes. "While these dishes are certainly adequate," she commented, running a finger along the rim of her sake cup, "tomorrow you'll experience Mesopotamian cuisine that truly revolutionized human culinary history. The very foundations of gastronomy began in my civilization."
"Bold claim," Viyrim remarked, helping himself to more sashimi. "I look forward to the evidence."
"And after that," Kama added, not to be outdone, "you'll discover that true divine cuisine transcends mere flavor to touch the essence of desire itself." Her crimson eyes gleamed across the table. "Food that satisfies hungers you didn't even know you had."
"You're all setting very high expectations," Viyrim observed, amused by their competitive spirit. "This could be the most interesting culinary tour I've experienced across multiple dimensions."
The conversation flowed easily throughout the meal, shifting between light banter and more serious topics. Despite their competitive nature, the three goddesses proved to be engaging dining companions, each bringing unique perspectives from their long existence and diverse pantheons.
As the main courses gave way to exquisite desserts—delicate mochi and seasonal fruits arranged like an elegant garden scene—Viyrim found himself genuinely enjoying the company. It was rare for him to encounter beings who could converse as near equals, who understood the long view of immortal existence while still appreciating the simple pleasures of an excellent meal.
"I'm curious," he said, savoring a perfect bite of yuzu sorbet, "about your perspective on this reality's structure. The Root, the conceptual framework, the relationship between divine and mortal realms—it's all quite different from other dimensions I've visited."
"How so?" Tamamo asked, her fox ears perking up with genuine interest.
"In most realities, there's a clearer separation between cosmic tiers," Viyrim explained. "Gods rarely walk among mortals. Conceptual forces remain abstract rather than manifesting in humanoid forms. The boundaries between different planes of existence are more... absolute."
"Our reality has always been more permeable," Ishtar reflected. "The Age of Gods saw deities regularly interfering in human affairs, for better or worse."
"The boundaries began to solidify with the advance of human civilization and the decline of mystery," Kama added. "But they never became impenetrable as in some other realities."
"What I find most interesting," Viyrim continued, "is the Root itself—the concept of an original source that connects all things while remaining fundamentally separate from them. It's an unusual cosmic architecture."
"You speak as if you've seen the alternatives," Tamamo observed. "True cosmic origins across multiple realities."
"I have," Viyrim confirmed casually, as if discussing weather patterns rather than the fundamental nature of existence. "Some realities emerged from creator deities, others from primordial chaos, still others from mathematical probabilities achieving critical mass. The variations are endless, yet certain patterns repeat."
The goddesses exchanged glances, momentarily united in their fascination with this casual revelation. Few beings could claim such comprehensive cosmic knowledge—even they, as divine entities, were limited to their native reality and perhaps a few adjacent dimensions.
"And how does our reality compare?" Ishtar asked, genuine curiosity momentarily overriding her competitive spirit.
Viyrim considered this as he finished his dessert. "Your reality is... unusually resilient," he finally said. "Most cosmic frameworks with this level of complexity would have collapsed under their own contradictions long ago. Yet yours adapts, evolves, incorporates new elements while preserving essential structures."
"Is that why the void entity emerged now?" Kama questioned. "A response to this adaptive quality reaching some critical threshold?"
"Possibly," Viyrim acknowledged. "Cosmic parasites like the Final Null tend to target realities that show unusual adaptability. They're drawn to the potential energy of systems in dynamic equilibrium."
"And they're drawn to you," Tamamo pointed out. "The entity specifically waited for your arrival before manifesting fully."
"That's the part that still puzzles me," Viyrim admitted. "There's something about the connection between my specific energy signature and this reality's structure that I don't fully understand yet." He shrugged, deliberately lightening the mood. "But that's a mystery for another day. For now, I'd like to focus on more immediate concerns—like whether there's any more of that excellent sake."
Tamamo immediately brightened, happy to return to her role as hostess. As she poured fresh cups for everyone, the conversation shifted to less cosmic topics—tales of divine misadventures across the centuries, amusing encounters with particularly stubborn mortals, and the universal constants of existence that transcended pantheons and dimensions alike.
The evening continued pleasantly, with the competitive tension between the goddesses temporarily set aside in favor of genuine camaraderie. By the time Viyrim finally excused himself to retire for the night, even Vados seemed relaxed, her eternal vigilance softened by good food and better company.
"A successful first evening at our new accommodation," she observed as they walked through the moonlit corridors toward Viyrim's chambers.
"Indeed," he agreed, stifling a yawn. "Though I suspect the peaceful coexistence between our divine hostesses won't last long. They're being suspiciously cooperative."
"They appear to have formed a temporary alliance of convenience," Vados analyzed. "Each hoping to win your favor while preventing the others from gaining too much influence."
"Politics," Viyrim sighed. "Even in paradise, there's no escaping it."
"Such is the nature of sentient existence, my lord," Vados replied with philosophical acceptance. "Though I must admit, their culinary competition benefits us regardless of their underlying motivations."
"Always looking for the bright side," Viyrim chuckled. "That's why I keep you around." He paused at the entrance to his chambers. "Tomorrow's meeting with the Clock Tower representatives—anything I should know in advance?"
"They're concerned about the aftermath of the void entity's manifestation," Vados explained. "Particularly the effects on the conceptual framework supporting their magical systems. With the Holy Grail corrupted and now dispersed, the underlying thaumaturgical architecture of this reality faces potential instability."
"Reasonable concern," Viyrim acknowledged. "Though from what I've seen, this reality's adaptability should compensate naturally." He yawned again, more prominently. "We'll deal with it tomorrow. Right now, that divine bed is calling my name."
"Rest well, my lord," Vados bowed slightly. "I'll ensure you're not disturbed until morning."
As Viyrim entered his chambers and prepared for sleep, he couldn't help reflecting on the unusual turns his casual dimensional tourism had taken. What had begun as a simple food tour had evolved into cosmic prophecies, void entities, divine politics, and now a harem of competing goddesses vying for his attention.
"Never a dull moment," he murmured to himself as he settled into the impossibly comfortable bed. "Though a few more dull moments might be nice occasionally."
Despite his complaints, there was something about this reality that intrigued him more than most. The complex interplay of forces, the unusual cosmic architecture, the fascinating beings he'd encountered—all combined to create a dimensional experience unlike any other he'd visited. And for a being who had seen virtually everything the multiverse had to offer, novelty was perhaps the rarest and most precious commodity of all.
With these thoughts drifting through his mind, the God of Destruction surrendered to sleep, unaware that in the dimensional spaces between realities, ripples from his conflict with the void entity were already spreading—drawing attention from beings who had previously taken no notice of this particular corner of the multiverse.
The cosmic game was only just beginning.
## Chapter 8: Morning Misunderstandings and Mage Meetings
Viyrim awoke to the gentle sound of birdsong and the warm glow of morning sunlight filtering through paper screens. For a moment, he simply enjoyed the perfect comfort of the divine bed, a masterpiece of supernatural craftsmanship that adjusted to his body with impossible precision. After the chaos of the previous day—divine councils, void entities, prophecies, and competing goddesses—the peaceful morning was a welcome reprieve.
Unfortunately, it didn't last long.
"Rise and shine, Destroyer God!" came an enthusiastic voice as his chamber door slid open with unnecessary force. Ishtar strode in, radiant in morning glory, wearing what appeared to be her idea of casual attire—a flowing golden robe that somehow managed to be both elegant and revealing simultaneously.
"I've brought breakfast," she announced, gesturing to a floating tray that followed her into the room. "Traditional Mesopotamian morning fare to prepare you for the day's activities."
Viyrim groaned and pulled a pillow over his face. "Has anyone in this reality heard of knocking? Or schedules? Or the concept of sleeping in after fighting cosmic void entities?"
"Gods don't require as much rest as mortals," Ishtar replied dismissively, setting the floating tray beside his bed. "Besides, I wanted to ensure you experienced a proper Mesopotamian breakfast before your meeting with those dreary Clock Tower mages."
Reluctantly, Viyrim removed the pillow and sat up, his curiosity about the food overriding his desire for more sleep. The tray contained an assortment of dishes that seemed both ancient and somehow timeless—warm flatbreads, honey-sweetened porridge, dried fruits reconstituted in spiced wine, and something that resembled yogurt but shimmered with faint golden light.
"Divine milk," Ishtar explained, noticing his interest in the shimmering substance. "From celestial cows that grazed on the original gardens of Uruk. It strengthens both body and spirit, particularly effective for regenerating energy expended in cosmic battles."
Viyrim tentatively tasted it and found the flavor remarkable—creamy and rich, with complex undertones of herbs and flowers that had likely been extinct for millennia. "Not bad," he admitted, which from him was high praise.
Ishtar beamed with triumph, settling herself on the edge of his bed with casual presumption. "My civilization pioneered the art of breakfast, you know. Before Mesopotamia, humans simply ate whatever was left over from the previous night. We taught them the importance of beginning the day with proper nourishment."
"Fascinating cultural history lesson," Viyrim commented between bites of the excellent flatbread. "Though I'm guessing you didn't come here solely to educate me on ancient dietary practices."
Ishtar's smile turned slightly more calculated. "Perceptive, as always. I thought we might discuss your plans for addressing the Clock Tower's concerns. As a goddess with extensive experience in mortal-divine diplomacy, I could offer valuable insights."
"I'm sure you could," Viyrim agreed, continuing to eat. "Though something tells me Tamamo and Kama would have equally valuable perspectives to offer."
Ishtar's perfect features briefly clouded with annoyance. "They have their strengths, certainly. But neither understands the delicate balance of power between mortal magecraft and divine authority as I do. My civilization invented formal magical systems while theirs were still drawing pictures in caves."
Before Viyrim could respond to this dubious historical claim, the chamber door slid open again—this time to reveal Tamamo, carrying her own breakfast tray and wearing an elaborate kimono that managed to be simultaneously traditional and distinctly flattering.
"Good morning, Lord Destroyer," she began cheerfully before spotting Ishtar. Her fox ears immediately flattened against her head. "I see someone has already intruded upon your morning rest. How inconsiderate."
"Says the fox who just entered without knocking," Ishtar countered smoothly.
"I knocked," Tamamo insisted. "Perhaps you were too busy with your self-aggrandizing historical revisionism to hear it."
Viyrim sighed deeply, looking between the two divine females with resignation. "Ladies, while I appreciate the breakfast competition, it's a bit early for divine bickering."
"We're not bickering," both goddesses declared simultaneously, then glared at each other for the jinx.
"Of course not," Viyrim agreed with exaggerated patience. "You're engaging in passionate cultural exchange. At an ungodly hour. In my bedroom."
This description, delivered with perfect deadpan tone, was enough to make both goddesses look momentarily abashed—a rare sight for beings of their cosmic stature.
"Perhaps I was a bit... eager to share Mesopotamian breakfast traditions," Ishtar admitted reluctantly.
"And I may have been overzealous in my desire to counter with proper Japanese morning cuisine," Tamamo acknowledged, her ears still flattened.
"Progress," Viyrim nodded approvingly. "Now, since you're both here with perfectly good food that would be a shame to waste, why don't we all enjoy breakfast together? In civilized fashion?"
This diplomatic solution seemed acceptable to both goddesses, though neither fully relinquished their competitive stance. Tamamo arranged her breakfast offerings—steamed rice, grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables—alongside Ishtar's Mesopotamian spread, creating an inadvertent fusion cuisine that actually complemented each other surprisingly well.
"Where's Kama this morning?" Viyrim asked casually as he sampled dishes from both trays. "I expected a three-way breakfast ambush."
"The goddess of desire prefers to make her appearances at more... appropriate hours," Tamamo explained with barely concealed disdain. "She claims morning is too 'prosaic' for her essence."
"Translation: she's not a morning person," Ishtar added with a smirk. "Divine sloth masquerading as aesthetic preference."
"A being after my own heart," Viyrim commented. "Sleep is seriously underrated among cosmic entities."
As they continued their unusual breakfast gathering, Vados arrived carrying a stack of scrolls and tablets that glowed faintly with magical energy.
"Good morning, my lord," she greeted, showing no surprise at finding him dining in bed with two goddesses. "I've compiled information about the Clock Tower delegation you'll be meeting today, along with summaries of the thaumaturgical disruptions reported since the void entity's dispersal."
"Always so efficient," Viyrim sighed, accepting the materials with resignation. "Fine, let's see what we're dealing with."
The scrolls detailed a complex situation developing throughout the magical community. With the Holy Grail corrupted and now dispersed, the underlying framework supporting certain types of magecraft had begun to fluctuate unpredictably. Nothing catastrophic yet, but concerning enough that the Clock Tower—the primary governing body for human mages—had requested this official meeting.
"Interesting," Viyrim muttered, reviewing the data. "The void entity's manifestation seems to have created ripple effects through conceptual layers of reality. Magical systems are recalibrating to compensate."
"Is that dangerous?" Tamamo asked, her fox ears perked with genuine concern.
"Not inherently," Viyrim replied thoughtfully. "It's actually a healthy response—like an immune system adapting to a new pathogen. But the process can be... uncomfortable for those who depend on the affected systems."
"The mages fear their powers may weaken or become unreliable," Ishtar observed, reading over his shoulder with casual presumption. "A reasonable concern for beings who lack divine essence to fall back on."
"More than that," Viyrim corrected. "They're worried about cascade failures in conceptual frameworks they barely understand to begin with. Human mages in this reality are playing with forces vastly beyond their comprehension, manipulating fragments of systems they see only in part."
"Like children handling fragments of shattered divine weapons," Tamamo suggested. "Dangerous not because they're malicious, but because they don't understand the true nature of their tools."
"Exactly," Viyrim nodded, pleasantly surprised by her insight. "And now those fragments are shifting in response to cosmic disturbances, leaving the children understandably concerned."
"So what will you tell them?" Ishtar asked. "Surely you don't plan to explain cosmic rebalancing theory to human mages?"
Viyrim chuckled at the thought. "No, that would be... counterproductive. I'll reassure them where possible, offer some basic guidance for navigating the fluctuations, and generally try not to make things worse."
"Diplomatic," Tamamo approved. "Though unusual for a destroyer god, if I may say so."
"Destruction isn't always about breaking things," Viyrim explained, stretching lazily. "Sometimes it's about clearing outdated structures so new ones can emerge naturally. Guiding the process rather than forcing it."
Both goddesses seemed intrigued by this philosophical perspective—a depth beneath his lazy exterior that continued to surprise them.
"Well," Ishtar declared, rising gracefully, "if you're to meet with human mages, you should at least look the part of a proper deity. Your current attire, while charming for breakfast in bed, hardly conveys the appropriate gravitas."
Viyrim glanced down at his simple sleeping robes. "What's wrong with comfortable clothing? It's not like they don't know I'm a god."
"Presentation matters," Tamamo insisted, already moving to examine the wardrobe that had materialized in his chambers. "Divine authority is partially conveyed through appropriate symbols and attire."
"I suppose you both have opinions on what constitutes 'appropriate' divine fashion?" Viyrim asked dryly.
What followed was a surprisingly entertaining half-hour of divine fashion consultation, with Ishtar advocating for gold-accented formal wear inspired by Mesopotamian royalty, while Tamamo pushed for elegant Japanese-inspired robes with subtle symbols of cosmic authority woven into the fabric.
Viyrim watched their debate with amused tolerance, occasionally offering commentary but mostly allowing them to enjoy their competition. Finally, Vados intervened with her usual diplomatic efficiency.
"Perhaps a synthesis of styles would be most appropriate," she suggested, tapping her staff lightly to materialize a new outfit. "Elements of both traditions, adapted to Lord Viyrim's personal aesthetics and practical needs."
The result was surprisingly effective—formal robes in his preferred deep purple and black, with subtle golden accents inspired by Mesopotamian patterns and structural elements drawn from traditional Japanese court attire. The overall effect was undeniably regal while maintaining comfort and freedom of movement.
"Not bad," Viyrim approved, examining himself in a mirror after changing. "Imposing without being ostentatious. Suitable for meeting mortal mages without giving them heart attacks from divine aura overload."
Both goddesses seemed satisfied with the compromise, though each claimed the best elements were clearly drawn from their suggestions.
"The meeting is scheduled for midday in the neutral reception hall," Vados reminded him. "The Clock Tower delegation will be escorted to the estate grounds but not permitted further than the outer gardens without your explicit approval."
"Security protocols?" Viyrim inquired.
"Standard divine precautions," Tamamo explained. "The estate itself will suppress any hostile magecraft automatically, while allowing normal communication and passive abilities."
"The delegation consists of seven members," Vados continued. "Led by Lord El-Melloi II, whom you met briefly at the dinner following the void incident. The others represent various faculties within the Clock Tower, specializing in different aspects of thaumaturgy potentially affected by recent events."
"Bureaucracy exists even in magical organizations," Viyrim sighed. "Some things are universal constants across all dimensions."
With breakfast concluded and attire settled, Viyrim decided to explore the estate grounds before the meeting. Both Ishtar and Tamamo offered to accompany him—each clearly hoping for some private time—but he politely declined, suggesting they might better prepare for the upcoming diplomatic encounter in their own ways.
"A tactful escape," Vados observed as they walked through the morning-dappled gardens alone.
"I needed a moment to think without divine females competing for my attention," Viyrim admitted. "Entertaining as it is, it does get exhausting."
"You could simply tell them you're not interested," Vados suggested mildly.
Viyrim shot her a sideways glance. "Who says I'm not interested? They're fascinating beings—each powerful in their own right, each representing fundamentally different approaches to existence. Their competition is annoying but also... enlightening."
"I see," Vados replied neutrally. "You're studying them for philosophical insights."
"Exactly," Viyrim agreed, though his slight smile suggested he knew she wasn't entirely convinced by this justification. "It's not often I encounter beings capable of engaging with me as near equals. Even if their methods are sometimes... questionable."
"Of course, my lord. Pure intellectual curiosity."
"Don't be smug, Vados. It doesn't suit an Angel Attendant."
Their banter continued as they explored the extensive grounds, Viyrim genuinely impressed by the divine craftsmanship evident in every aspect of the estate. Each garden, pond, and pavilion had been designed with perfect harmony, creating spaces that existed simultaneously in physical reality and on subtler conceptual levels.
"This place operates on at least seven dimensional planes simultaneously," he observed, examining a particularly ancient cherry tree that seemed to blossom in different seasons depending on the angle from which it was viewed. "Impressive engineering for a reality with such unusual cosmic architecture."
"The divine architects clearly understood how to work within their conceptual limitations," Vados agreed. "Creating harmony rather than fighting against established parameters."
"Something human mages could learn from," Viyrim noted. "Speaking of which, I believe our guests have arrived."
In the distance, at the main entrance to the estate, a group of figures had materialized—seven humans in formal magical attire, escorted by minor kami who maintained a respectful but watchful presence.
"Right on time," Vados observed. "How refreshingly professional."
"Let's not keep them waiting," Viyrim decided, straightening his formal robes. "Time to play the responsible cosmic entity addressing mortal concerns."
"A role you perform with surprising aptitude when properly motivated," Vados noted.
"Don't sound so shocked. I can be diplomatic when the situation warrants it." Viyrim adjusted his posture slightly, his usually lazy slouch replaced by the perfect poise of a being of immense cosmic stature. Even his expression shifted subtly, becoming more focused and present. "Besides, these humans are genuinely trying to understand forces beyond their comprehension. That deserves some respect."
With that, the God of Destruction and his Angel Attendant proceeded toward the neutral reception hall, ready to address the concerns of mortal mages facing a universe suddenly more complicated than they had ever imagined.
The Clock Tower delegation waited in the reception hall, a masterpiece of divine architecture designed specifically for meetings between different ontological categories of beings. The space adjusted itself automatically to ensure all parties felt equally comfortable—dampening overwhelming divine auras while subtly enhancing mortal presence to create conversational balance.
Lord El-Melloi II stood at the forefront of the delegation, his long dark hair and severe expression marking him clearly as the leader. Behind him stood six other mages of varying ages and appearances, each radiating the particular magical signature of their specialty.
"God of Destruction," El-Melloi greeted formally as Viyrim entered. "Thank you for granting this audience. The Association recognizes and appreciates your willingness to address our concerns directly."
"Lord El-Melloi," Viyrim acknowledged with a slight nod. "Welcome to the Sacred Mountain Estate. I trust your journey was comfortable?"
"As comfortable as dimensional transit guided by minor kami can be for humans," the mage replied with dry humor. "Which is to say, disorienting but efficient."
Viyrim smiled slightly, appreciating the man's candor. "Please, be seated. I understand you have questions about recent events and their implications for human magecraft."
The delegation settled onto cushions arranged around a low table of polished wood that seemed to float slightly above the floor. Refreshments appeared automatically—tea for the humans that adjusted its properties to each individual's preference, and a more exotic beverage for Viyrim that shimmered with faint purple light.
"To be direct," El-Melloi began once formalities were concluded, "the magical community is experiencing unprecedented fluctuations in thaumaturgical effectiveness following the void entity's manifestation and subsequent dispersal. Systems that have remained stable for centuries are showing significant variability. Some mages report enhanced abilities in certain areas while others find their reliable spells failing entirely."
"Expected consequences of conceptual recalibration," Viyrim nodded. "The void entity's intrusion and my counter-response created ripple effects through the underlying frameworks of your reality."
"Is this damage permanent?" asked an elderly woman seated to El-Melloi's right—introduced as the head of theoretical magecraft studies. "Are we witnessing the acceleration of magical decline that has been ongoing since the end of the Age of Gods?"
Viyrim considered the question carefully. "Not damage so much as evolution. Your reality is adaptively responding to new variables. Think of it as an immune system reaction rather than injury."
"That's disturbingly vague," commented another mage—younger, with the intense focus of one specializing in combat applications of magecraft. "We need to know if our existing systems will stabilize or if we're facing a fundamental paradigm shift."
"Both, in different areas," Viyrim replied honestly. "Some magical frameworks will return to familiar patterns once the adaptation is complete. Others will