"Old God—Earth-Shaking Worm?"
Shade was quite surprised to hear the name of this deity, because he had actually heard of this Old God before.
The Old God Earth-Shaking Worm had another well-known title: the "God of Earthquake." Unlike the Old God "World Serpent," which the Doctor had once mentioned and which was associated with sand, dust, and soil, the Old God Earth-Shaking Worm's primary power was earthquakes.
Shade had once read in his textbooks that, in the Old Era, when civilization was still undeveloped, whenever an earthquake struck, the local people would seek out this deity's Believers to organize large-scale prayers and sacrificial rites.
But this Old God had already departed. Like Innocent Creator, whom Shade knew, it had left during the Fifth Epoch. Moreover, Earth-Shaking Worm was no Good God. It was a genuine evil god, and live sacrifices were required to soothe the "wrath of the earth" through ritual offerings.
Shade glanced at the kindly old woman before him. She seemed very different from the Fishmen who likewise worshipped evil gods.
"Not only the last member of the Cult—I believe I'm also the final generation of priests."
Old Woman Ilal laughed and shook her head, while Miss Aurora returned her smile:
"The purpose of our visit was clearly stated in the letter. It is this one, Hamilton."
She pointed at Shade, who was holding the Cat:
"I want him to experience the power of the Great One you believe in."
"Oh, young men who come here from the city are all rather handsome."
The old woman complimented Shade's appearance, then reached out and took his hand. After a moment, she nodded:
"No problem. His power does not conflict with that of My Lord."
A Ring Arcanist could not master just any Spirit Rune. Conflicts with one's Core Ling