Chapter 229

Having singlehandedly eradicated the Wolfkan group in the Edencia fief, Mu-Gun returned to Pantheon's Royal Capital with the two Knight Orders that had been on standby in Vellica City.

Upon learning of Mu-Gun's accomplishment in the Edencia fief, Pantheon IV expressed great satisfaction and summoned Mu-Gun to the palace. Accompanied by Leon, the Royal Palace's Archmage, Mu-Gun entered the palace for an audience with Pantheon IV.

The palace stood as the pinnacle of splendor. Lush forests enveloped the palace from every direction, akin to a protective folding screen, while gardens adorned with diverse flowers and trees sprawled before the palace.

“What do you think?” Leon asked.

“It is gorgeous,” Mu-Gun answered with an unimpressed look.

“You look quite calm, unlike what you just said.”

“By nature, I prefer simple things rather than fancy things.”

"Really? With your skills and the accomplishments you've gathered this time, securing a rather prestigious position should be within reach. You might even be considered for the Edencia fief, which has lost its owner in this recent incident," Leon remarked.

"With all due respect, I did not vanquish the Wolfkans to gain a particular position. Moreover, the Wolfkan threat we faced is merely the beginning, not the conclusion. As the proxy of God, I am committed to utilizing all my abilities to thwart the impending threat of the Demon God," Mu-Gun declared.

"Your unwavering faith is truly remarkable, especially given your youth. It's evident why the Sky God chose you as its proxy."

"I recognize my shortcomings in many aspects. I would be immensely grateful for your guidance and assistance, Sir Leon," Mu-Gun humbly expressed.

"I may not be certain of how I could be of assistance to someone of your stature, having already attained the Grand Master Stage. Nevertheless, if you ever find yourself in need of my support, do not hesitate to inform me. If there is anything within my capacity to do, I will gladly lend my aid," Leon declared with conviction.

“Thank you.”

“Well then, let’s proceed and have an audience with His Majesty.”

As they engaged in a brief conversation, they arrived at the throne room where Pantheon IV presided. Mu-Gun entered alongside Leon. Within, the Golden Dragon Knight Order Captain, Sir Walter, and the four Master Stage Knights, along with high-ranking officials of the kingdom, stood in formation from side to side.

Seated atop the highest seat of honor—the throne—Pantheon IV came into view. Draped in a uniform embellished with a golden insignia and adorned with a crown, the man in his mid-forties possessed a pair of keen and discerning eyes.

In his youth, Pantheon IV had nearly lost his life in a struggle for the throne, betrayed by a trusted aide. This harrowing experience left him perpetually suspicious, temperamental, and overly fixated on his safety due to the lingering mental trauma. Despite these challenges, he exuded a dignified presence as he occupied the throne, wearing a stern expression befitting a king.

Mu-Gun promptly traversed the carpet in the center of the throne room, making his way toward Pantheon IV. Observing proper decorum, he greeted the king with the courtesy befitting a loyal vassal.

“Argon Laonia Venatia of the Venatia fief greets the great ruler of Pantheon.”

“Raise your head.”

At Pantheon IV’s words, Mu-Gun heeded and raised his head.

“I heard that the Sky God Yupir made you its proxy?”

“That is correct.”

"If you are the proxy of God, I must accord you the respect befitting such a position, regardless of my own status."

"That is certainly not necessary. I am Your Majesty' vassal before I am God's proxy. Your Majesty merely needs to treat me as you would any other vassal or subject," Mu-Gun replied politely.

"Your efforts in thwarting the Wolfkan invasion are truly commendable. I wish to express my gratitude by rewarding you for halting the Wolfkan attacks and safeguarding Pantheon. Is there a particular reward you desire?" Pantheon IV inquired.

"I have no personal desire for rewards. However, I implore Your Majesty to devote careful attention to collaborating with the other nations of Avalon in confronting the impending threat of the Demon God," Mu-Gun requested.

"I have been informed by Sir Leon about the imminent arrival of the Demon God. However, can we be certain of its authenticity?"

"When God appointed me as their proxy, I heard it directly. Unless God deceived me, there is no doubt that it is true."

"The evidence strongly suggests the descent of the Demon God, considering the movements of the colossal monsters attacking other kingdoms and the Wolfkans besieging ours. Furthermore, throughout history, the appearance of God's proxy has coincided with the descent of the Demon God, lending credence to the truth of the matter," Leon supplemented, providing additional context to Mu-Gun's statements.

"If, as you and Sir Leon have said, the Demon God has indeed descended, then it is imperative for all the nations of Avalon to unite in this fight."

“That is correct.”

“Despite this, I don’t know if the Pamar Empire or the other kingdoms will listen to us.”

"The Pamar Empire and the other kingdoms are likely to heed the call if the Sky God Church conveys God's will, isn't that correct?" Having responded to Pantheon IV, Leon turned to Cardinal Barius, seeking the church's cooperation.

"As Sir Leon articulated, our Church, in conjunction with Your Majesty the King, will communicate the will of the Sky God to the other nations and diligently work towards uniting all the nations of Avalon," Cardinal Barius affirmed with a nod.

"Above all, if Your Majesty dedicates yourself to rallying the nations of Avalon, your leadership will be esteemed by all in Avalon."

Pantheon IV's eyes gleamed upon hearing Leon's words. An ambitious man, he aspired for Pantheon to ascend as the paramount nation in Avalon, surpassing even the Pamar Empire. Furthermore, he envisioned himself at the heart of this ascendancy.

Yet, the Pantheon Kingdom's power was feeble. Compounding the challenge, Pantheon IV's personal capabilities were not particularly exceptional. His ambition seemed akin to an elusive dream.

However, circumstances had evolved. The Pantheon Kingdom now housed Mu-Gun, the proxy of the Sky God Yupir. With Mu-Gun at the forefront, the Pantheon Kingdom had the potential to emerge as the central nation of Avalon. To achieve this, making Mu-Gun a steadfast ally was paramount.

One avenue was to bestow upon Mu-Gun a distinguished position. Yet, the most certain way to cement their association was through a strategic alliance sealed by a political marriage.

Pantheon IV had an unmarried daughter, while Mu-Gun was also single. A union between the two through marriage would ensure a more steadfast allegiance from Mu-Gun to Pantheon IV.

"The council's perspective is valid. The Sky God may have chosen a citizen of the Pantheon Kingdom as its proxy with the expectation that our kingdom would spearhead the effort to vanquish the Demon God. In accordance with the Sky God's will, I shall unite Avalon's forces and lead the charge against the Demon God. Argon, as the proxy of the Sky God, you will stand by my side and lend your assistance."

“You want me to stay by Your Majesty’s side?”

"Yes, Your Majesty. I will establish the Sky Knight Order to spearhead the battle against the Demon God, and I entrust you with the leadership of this order, Argon."

Mu-Gun hailed from the Venatia fief, yet he hadn't secured any notable position as of now. Given the circumstances, there lingered the possibility of Mu-Gun shifting his allegiance either towards the Pamar Empire or other realms. Anticipating this potential, Pantheon IV devised a strategy: the formation of the Sky Knight Order. This initiative aimed to assign Mu-Gun a distinct role, tethering him firmly to the Pantheon Kingdom and averting any impending shift.

Mu-Gun easily discerned Pantheon IV's intentions. However, he harbored no inclination to comply with Pantheon IV's wishes.

“Sorry, but I cannot lead the Sky Knight Order.” Mu-Gun refused without hesitation.

“Why not?”

Pantheon IV’s expression stiffened as he did not expect Mu-Gun would refuse.

"Swiftness is paramount in halting the Demon God and his followers. Being tethered to a specific Knight Order or nation would impede my ability to respond effectively to the threat posed by the Demon God. Therefore, I prefer the freedom to move unrestricted, unaffiliated with any particular entity. I trust you'll generously comprehend my intentions," Mu-Gun replied, disregarding Pantheon IV's stoic expression.

Pantheon IV found little satisfaction in witnessing Mu-Gun speak with confidence. It seemed as though Mu-Gun failed to acknowledge his authority entirely. If given the chance, Pantheon IV desired nothing more than to promptly reprimand Mu-Gun for audaciously rejecting his plans.

Nevertheless, Mu-Gun stood as the proxy of the Sky God. Even as a king, there were limits to what he could rashly do to Mu-Gun, who embodied the will of the Sky God. Most importantly, discord with him would yield no favorable outcomes. In the interim, fostering a cordial relationship with Mu-Gun held significant importance.

Fundamentally, Mu-Gun was a citizen of the Pantheon Kingdom. Throughout history, an arm would naturally bend inward.[1]. It was inevitable for Mu-Gun’s priority to skew toward the Pantheon Kingdom, which he was from.

However, this could only be achieved through a maintained friendly relationship. If Mu-Gun harbored resentment towards Pantheon IV, his sentiments toward the Pantheon Kingdom would also diminish. Compelling Mu-Gun to shoulder undesired burdens would prove detrimental, whether for Pantheon IV or the Pantheon Kingdom.

Initially, Pantheon IV aimed to bestow the leadership of the Sky Knight Order upon Mu-Gun, along with the proposal of marrying Elena Brave Pantheon, his daughter. However, in light of Mu-Gun's resolute refusal to head the Sky Knight Order, Pantheon IV chose to postpone any discussions regarding the marriage proposal.

However, Pantheon IV remained undeterred in his pursuit of the marriage between Mu-Gun and Elena. He devised an alternative approach by entrusting the marriage negotiations to Count Wackins instead of Mu-Gun. Given Count Wackins' unwavering loyalty, Pantheon IV believed he wouldn't dare reject a marriage proposal personally extended by the king. In doing so, Count Wackins could potentially convince Mu-Gun to consider the proposal.

“Ehem, if that is what you want, then it can’t be helped. Instead, you must never forget that you are a citizen of the Pantheon Kingdom before you are God’s proxy.”

“I will keep that in mind, Your Majesty,” Mu-Gun replied.

“So, what are your plans for the future?” Pantheon IV asked.

“I am informed that three kingdoms are currently under threat from the huge monsters, namely the Sybellian, the Whiteliger, and the Blackness. For starters, I intend to help those kingdoms.” Mu-Gun explained.

“Is there anything I can do for you?”

“There are two things Your Majesty can help with.”

“Go on, tell me.”

“Firstly, I would appreciate it if you could give me permission to use the inter-kingdom portal freely.”

“I will gladly allow that.”

“Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty.”

“What is the second favor?”

“I would appreciate it if you could allow the Golden Lion Knight Order of the Venatia fief to freely operate overseas.”

Knight Orders affiliated with the kingdom couldn't operate freely beyond its borders. This restriction was in place to prevent inadvertent conflicts that could lead to an unwanted war in foreign territories.

“Fine, I will allow the Golden Lion Knight Order to freely operate overseas.” Pantheon IV gave his permission without much thought.

“Thank you for your grace again, Your Majesty.”

“Are those two the only things you need? Don’t you need anything else?”

“The two favors I just asked are enough, Your Majesty.”

“Is it possible to stop the monsters only with the Golden Lion Knight Order? If you wish, I can deploy the Golden Dragon Knight Order as reinforcements.”

“It is fine. The Golden Lion Knight Order alone is more than enough right now.”

“I see. However, if you ever need the power of the Golden Dragon Knight Order, tell me anytime. I will willingly mobilize them.”

“Understood, Your Majesty.”

“Well then, you must be tired after dealing with the Wolfkans, so you may leave now.”

“Then, I will take my leave now, Your Majesty.”

Mu-Gun paid his respects to Pantheon IV and exited the throne room. Accompanied by the Golden Lion Knights, he journeyed back to Venatia Castle through the portal in the Royal Capital. Upon reaching Venatia Castle, Count Watkins, Kayehon, and Franchel emerged to greet him.

“Welcome back.”

“Why did you go out of your way to come out here?”

𝕗𝐫𝚎𝗲𝘄𝐞𝕓𝐧𝕠𝘃𝕖𝐥.𝐜𝚘𝚖

"My son is returning after achieving something monumental, so it's only fitting that I come out to welcome you. You saved the Stonia fief and handled the Wolfkans, who posed a threat to the Royal Capital. Your contribution is immense. As your father, I am incredibly proud of you. You've done an exceptional job."

“Yes, thanks to you, the status of our Venatia fief has been greatly increased. I am so proud and grateful as your brother.”

“I am also so proud of you for being my younger brother.”

Following Count Wackins, the First Young Lord Kayehon, and the Second Young Lord Franchel also praised Mu-Gun.

“You are praising me too much. Let’s go inside for now.” Mu-Gun said.

“Alright, when I heard that you were coming, I ordered dinner to be prepared. Let’s talk about the details of your achievements over dinner.”

“Alright.”

Mu-Gun followed behind Count Wackins and his two brothers as they entered the Venatia House. During dinner at the Venatia House, Mu-Gun shared details of his meeting with Pantheon IV with Count Wackins and his siblings.

“His Majesty The King asked you to lead the Sky Knight Order, but you refused?” Count Wackins asked in surprise.

"The reason His Majesty wished to entrust the Sky Knight Order to me is because he envisions reviving the Pantheon Kingdom through my efforts. As a loyal citizen of the Pantheon Kingdom, it is my duty to strive for its restoration to its former glory. However, bearing the responsibility as God's proxy, I am entrusted with the solemn mission of thwarting the impending threat of the Demon God. Leading the Sky Knight Order in accordance with His Majesty's will would impede my ability to fulfill the divine duties bestowed upon me. That is precisely why I declined."

“I understand what you mean. But was His Majesty not offended?” Count Wackins asked anxiously.

He was worried that Pantheon IV might be vindictive of Mu-Gun.

“That seemed to be the case at first, but after he heard my explanation, he understood my intentions.”

“That’s a relief. So, what are you going to do now?” Count Wackins asked.

“As God’s proxy, I want to help the kingdoms threatened by the other huge monsters. I have a favor to ask you in this regard, Father.”

“What is it?”

“Please give me permission to take the Golden Lion Knight Order with me.”

“That is out of the question. If you take the Golden Lion Knight Order with you, who will protect the fiefdom?”

Even before Count Wackins could answer, Franchel expressed his objection.

“Kayehon, what do you think?” Wackins glanced at Franchel, who suddenly interrupted, and turned to ask Kayehon.

“I think it would be good to send them with Argon.” Kayehon pondered for a moment and replied.

“What is your reason for that?”

"If our Venatia's Golden Lion Knight Order spearheads the effort against the Demon God's threat, it will significantly enhance the standing of the Venatia fief. Furthermore, contrary to Franchel's concerns, the safety of the Venatia fief won't be compromised even in the absence of the Golden Lion Knights. Who would dare to pose a threat to Venatia when Argon, God's proxy, is aligned with us?" Kayehon clarified his reasoning.

“What Kayehon said is true. I will allow you to take the Golden Lion Knight Order, Argon.”

“Thank you.”

“When will you leave for the other kingdoms?”

“I will depart right after we finish dinner,” Mu-Gun answered.

“If you want to go to another kingdom, you’ll need to get permission from the Royal Capital’s Portal Management Bureau. Did you already settle that issue?”

“Yes. I have already obtained permission from His Majesty The King. I was also granted permission for the Golden Lion Knight Order to operate overseas.”

“Is there anything else I can do for you?” Count Wackins asked.

“Letting me take the Golden Lion Knight Order is more than enough help.”

“Alright then, continue with your meal.”

After dinner with his family, Mu-Gun returned to the Royal Capital with the Golden Lion Knight Order.

1. This is an old Korean proverb. It means that all humans, whether they like it or not, tend to take care of their own kind before strangers. ?