Chapter 353: The Law of Herod the Great

It was not that Sajyou Manaka had connected to the power of the Root. Rather, after transforming into a Beast, she had gained that eerie presence that made people shudder.

Ritsuka's step faltered. His hands instinctively assumed a defensive stance, and a technique originating from the legend of the Ten Plagues in the Bible took shape in his hands.

This was one of the few defensive applications of Roy's Jacob's Ladder. Because Roy was far too powerful, he rarely used it, but against Ritsuka, this move proved tremendously effective.

The Original Fire slashed between Ritsuka's hands. At the same time, the effect of Jacob's Ladder activated. The curse originating from the Ten Plagues followed the Original Fire upward, causing Nero's delicate body to freeze for a moment.

Although Ritsuka had not been killed outright by the blow, the Beast's power within the Original Fire still caused her immense pain.

A bloody mark appeared from her shoulder to her waist and abdomen. The intense pain forced Ritsuka to retreat repeatedly, while the Whore of Babylon's scarlet magical energy tried to make her fall completely.

After enduring the long journey of Saving Humanity's Order, even Roy had acknowledged the strength of Ritsuka's spirit and will—strength enough to bear the Demon God Power for a moment.

Confronted by the Whore of Babylon's intent to corrupt her, Ritsuka barely suppressed the vile desire that burned through her body and threatened to overwhelm her.

"Senpai!"

Mash finally reached Ritsuka and raised the shield in her hands, placing herself in front of her.

"Who are you?!"

Mash raised her round shield, still shaken by what had almost happened, and shouted loudly.

"I am Nero Claudius, Emperor of Rome. I am here to invite the Son of God back to Heaven!"

Nero's tone was ostentatious and melodious,