Astonishing

"Hellman, Ashirs."

The armored king, a train-sledgehammer slung over his shoulder and a crimson greatsword in hand, spoke in a rasping voice that echoed through the curtain of rain.

His blood-feather cloak billowed wildly in the gale like a ravenous beast baring its fangs and claws, trying to break free from Gilan's shoulder and leap forward to devour the two apostles' incarnations before him.

"It seems, regrettably, that you lack the ability to keep me here... while these incarnations of yours will have to remain in the mortal world forever."

Gilan said calmly.

At those words, Hellman and Ashirs' expressions darkened.

"Gilan Iros, I have to admit that you are indeed powerful. Even across the entire mortal world, it would be hard to find your equal... but there will come a day when you ascend. The moment you set foot in the Land of Gods again, you will surely die."

"No matter how strong you are in the mortal world, once you reach the Land of Gods, you will be as weak as an ant. Before true Ascendants, or even our true bodies, you will be utterly helpless."

Ashirs said coldly.

"Unless, like your teacher, the 'White Sage' Paracelsus, you remain in the mortal world forever, hiding away in the material realm where we can scarcely interfere... but mortals have limited lifespans. Sooner or later, you will become a heap of dust."

"There is no need to keep making threats."

Gilan replied evenly.

"It only makes you seem incompetent, Mr. Ashirs. As an Apostle of October, wearing the Crown of 'Drama' personally bestowed by the 'Poet,' you understand the dramatic nature of stories better than anyone... Tell me, even if I remain in the mortal world and never ascend, what can you possibly do to me?"

"I have three hundred