Chapter 11

Chapter 11

Zareths thoughts stuttered for a moment as he processed Cerebons words and their implications. Not only could the deity easily read his mind, but he also knew that Zareth had been reincarnated.

Surprisingly, being reincarnated wasnt a fact that affected his life as much as one would have expected. Oh, there were a few benefits, such as being able to become literate fairly easily and retaining his previous education. It also meant that he simply perceived the world differently compared to most other people, but otherwise, being reincarnated hadnt been that big of a deal so far.

However, that didnt mean that he wanted that information being spread around. Zareth had no idea how common his circumstances were, or how the natives of this world might react to it. For all Zareth knew, some [Archmage] sitting in a tower in the middle of nowhere might decide to kidnap and turn him into a labrat if they were to hear about him.

Your concerns are not without merit, said Cerebon, his surprisingly deep voice pulling Zareth out of his spiraling thoughts. Mortal mages have grown much less bold in their predations since the creation of the System. Yet there still exist many who would gladly commit atrocities on your soul with the intention of stealing its secrets. I suggest you continue to keep such information private. Ive only recently grown fond of you, so it would be a shame to see you die so quickly.

Zareth couldnt help but grimace as the deity once again read his mind. It highlighted the fact that he needed to find a way to protect himself against mind reading magic, more than what was provided naturally from the Willpower Stat. However, there was probably nothing he could do to protect his thoughts from Cerebon.

Zareth waited a moment for the deity to respond, but Cerebon merely leaned back on his ruined throne, presumably waiting patiently for him to sort through his thoughts.

Greetings, Lord Cerebon, and thank you for your wisdom, said Zareth, his voice servile and deferential. He didnt know exactly what he should say, but he figured that a little bit of brown nosing couldnt hurt. I am truly fortunate to receive your guidance. If I might ask, do you know why I was reincarnated into this world? Ive never heard of anyone in my situation.

It was impossible to read any facial expressions from the inhuman skull that served as Cerebons face, but Zareth somehow had the feeling that the god was displeased.

I am a god. Not some mortal ruler who requires needless flattery from his servants, especially from one who holds me in no great reverence, Cerebon said disdainfully, his words washing over Zareth like a chill wind. So long as your words remain respectful, I expect you to speak without pretensions.

Zareth hesitated for a moment, taken aback by the deitys candidness. Eventually, he felt a knot of nervous tension unwind in his chest. His more transactional service to Cerebon was something hed been worried might become an issue, but he was glad to see that wasnt the case.The original appearance of this chapter can be found at Ñøv€lß1n.

Understood. I will do as you say, Lord Cerebon, Zareth replied, his tone becoming much more casual.

Good, then allow me the opportunity to properly appraise you before I address your question.

Before Zareth could react, Cerebon had already vanished from his place on his throne and reappeared directly in front of him. Looking up, Zareth met the gaze of the god looming over him. His body froze completely as a surge of primal fear rushed through his veins. Zareth didnt understand how he knew this, but it felt as if the god was searching through his soul and seeing the very essence of who he was, had been, and could one day become.

While the sensation was not painful, he felt as if someone was wandering just underneath his skin. The sensation was more invasive than anything that he had ever felt in either life. Then, as abruptly as it had begun, the sensation ceased, and Zareth found himself doubling over as he struggled to catch his breath. He had no idea if he actually needed to breathe in this realm, but the familiar rhythm of the act helped calm his racing heart.

When he finally looked up, Zareth saw that Cerebon had returned to his throne and was looking off into the distance with a contemplative expression.

Zareth couldnt help but feel a hint of relief that the god was no longer standing in front of him and desperately hoped that he would never have to go through anything like that ever again. A part of Zareth had begun to think that since Cerebon was rather tolerant of his worshipers, that he was more considerate than most gods.

It seemed that assumption was premature.

Zareth waited for a moment, but if Cerebon cared at all about his disrespectful thoughts then he didnt show it. Instead, the deity merely ignored him and continued to gaze into the distance, seemingly deep in thought.

How vexing. It seems that I am unable to detect whatever force it was which brought you to this reality, Cerebons voice was quiet and contemplative when he finally spoke. I have rarely seen a mortal soul as malleable as your own. There is much that I could have done with it if not for the influence of the System. Still, you possess the potential to be very useful, both in spreading my influence and combating the Conclave.

Zareth blinked in surprise, not sure how to respond to such a statement. There was a surprising amount of distaste when Cerebon mentioned the Conclave.

"Lord Cerebon, do you hold significant animosity toward the gods of the Conclave? I would not have assumed that you interacted with them particularly often, Zareth asked curiously.

As far as he could tell, nobody in TalQamar had ever heard of Cerebon before Zareth had started growing his cult. He wasnt egotistical enough to believe that his actions alone were enough to cause literal gods to come into conflict. Besides, the distaste in Cerebons voice sounded like the result of an old grudge rather than a recent disagreement.

You will find, mortal, that most gods are familiar with their fellow deities and rarely hold neutral opinions toward them, Cerebon said with a hint of bitterness. Especially among those who fought during the divine conflict preceding the Systems creation.

Zareths curiosity grew at the gods words. He had so many things he wanted to ask that he hardly knew where to start and only barely stopped himself from bombarding the god with questions.

The origin of the System is a dangerous secret to possess, said Cerebon, responding to his unspoken questions. There are some who would mark you for death to prevent its spread. Yet, some of this knowledge is relevant to the task I will assign you. However, we must first deal with another matter. I have watched you for some time, and found that you have done well in spreading my teachings to lands that have not heard them in many ages. I would see your efforts rewarded. Approach.

Secrets? Tasks? Rewards?

Zareth found himself caught in a whirlwind of emotions, but he quickly pushed them away and focused on the present. The direct command from a deity wasnt something he could ignore, even if he wanted to. With careful steps, he approached the gods ruined throne.

Cerebon remained silent, his body utterly still as Zareth drew closer. It was only when Zareth came within hands reach that the god leaned forward, extending a clawed hand covered in pulsating flesh and touching his forehead. Immediately, Zareth could feel the foreign sensation of the god examining his body with clinical efficiency. It was uncomfortable.

Is this what people feel like when I use [Flesh Perception] on them?

Hmph. Your modifications would certainly be considered unique among the rest of my servants, but they are adequate given your circumstances, Cerebon commented with all the interest of a world renown artist examining a childs doodle. His eyes seem to pierce through skin, muscle, and bone. However your emphasis on mortal aesthetics limits your capacity for change. Allow me to assist you with that.

Without warning, Zareth felt an overwhelming surge of power coursing through him as his body was inundated with divine energy.

Passive Skill: Eye of Cerebon acquired!

Cultist has reached Level 21! Skill Point Gained!

Cultist has reached Level 22! Skill Point Gained!

Warning! External manipulation of a mortal soul by an unauthorized divine being has been detec

For the second time since hed entered Cerebons divine realm, Zareth was left on his hands and knees, gasping for air as the surge of power ended. A part of him noted the strange instance of the Systems voice being unexpectedly interrupted, something hed never known was possible, but the rest of him was focused on trying to regain his bearings.

Eventually, Zareth managed to push himself back onto his feet. When he looked back up at Cerebon, he was surprised to see that the god had changed forms. Gone was the giant of writhing flesh and a lizard skull for a head, and instead stood a figure that was much more familiar. If not for the palpable aura of power emanating from Cerebon, Zareth would almost think that he was looking in a mirror.

The only difference was the large third eye sitting in the center of Cerebons forehead, glowing with an eerie, otherworldly light.

Do not be so shocked. It should be no surprise to witness the God of Flesh and Transformation changing his form, Cerebon said, his voice still as deep as it was. Zareth couldnt help but find it utterly bizarre to see his own face looking back at him with such an impassive expression. Besides, I felt this is the simplest way for you to examine the gift Ive bestowed upon you.

It took a moment for Zareth to understand what the god was implying, but once he did, he hurriedly touched the spot on his forehead where Cerebon placed his taloned finger. To his surprise, there was a third eye now embedded there. It was closed at the moment, but he had a feeling it wasnt just for show.

Is this the [Eye of Cerebon] that the System mentioned? Zareth asked cautiously, vainly trying to hide his unease despite knowing that it was futile. What does it do, Lord Cerebon?

It has the capability to do many things. Currently, it will allow you to see through most mundane illusions and serve as a far superior alternative to your mortal eyes, Cerebon began, the pride in his expression now much easier to read now that he looked human. However, as your service to me continues and you gain in power, it will acquire more abilities. One such potential ability is the capacity to see how the System influences others with as much detail as if it was yourself.

Zareths eyes widened in surprise. If [Eye of Cerebon] could give him the ability to check other peoples Status then that would be absolutely very useful. Hed only ever heard rumors of powerful enchanted artifacts that could do something similar. Even just allowing him to see through illusions and giving him better eyesight would go a long way in protecting him from [Assassins] sent by the Conclave.

Could I hire Adventurers to go search these places for me? No I can hire a team of Adventurers once I actually find the temple, but it would be too expensive to hire them long term. Itll take some time for my pet selling business to make enough gold to pay for something like that.

Would House Vhelan be willing to fund some powerful Adventurers if I asked for support? Maybe, but then theyd want a massive cut out of anything that I find in the temple. Id like to avoid that if possible.

Could I ask for help from some of Cerebons other worshippers? Thats an option but the Grimoire of Cerebon doesnt exactly make them seem like the most pleasant of folks. Not sure Im eager to meet people willing to give a book that includes instructions for ritual sacrifices to someone they think is a kid.

Given the amused huff he heard from Cerebon, Zareth had a feeling that his impression about the gods other worshippers was somewhat accurate.

Then that only leaves one option.

Zareth let out a sigh of frustration as he realized that he would need to acquire the help of TalQamar's more traditionalist humans. They alone came from a more nomadic background and still actively practiced many of their old ways, including venturing out into the desert on regular hunting and gathering expeditions. They were likely more knowledgeable of the Qahtani Desert and its secrets than any other group in TalQamar.

Suddenly, Zareth wished that he had a better relationship with that faction than he currently did.

I suppose Id already meant to figure out a way to win them over eventually. This would just be moving up my timeline forward a bit.

Hmm. It has been quite some time since Ive last spoken to Silvaris, but I suppose it is worth doing so now, Cerebon said thoughtfully, his gaze distant as if lost in memory. If he is willing to lend the aid of his servants, then it would indeed make your efforts much easier.

Zareth slumped over in relief. If Faridas god prevented her from whispering poison in the ears of the traditionalists, then he might actually have a chance of convincing them to help him. He was sure that many of them would still be skeptical of him, but that would be one less obstacle in his path.

Thank you, Lord Cerebon. What dangers can be expected to be found within the temple aside from the System Spawn? Zareth asked, already picturing a horde of fleshy abominations chasing people through crumbling halls.

The more information he had about the dangers, the more willing a team of Adventurers would be to enter the temple and find the tome.

Expect traps and possibly guardians in the deepest levels, Cerebon immediately answered. The majority of the deterrents would have been destroyed by either the System Spawn, or simply by time, but the most powerful ones would remain active. However, you should theoretically be able to bypass these defenses through the use of my power.

Zareth nodded in understanding. If Cerebon was really Meldoraths successor, then it made sense that he would be able to bypass or at least mitigate the dangers within the temple. After all, Meldoraths servants would have needed a way through their own temples defenses.

I see. That sounds reasonable, Zareth said before suddenly widening his eyes in realization. Wait a minute. That means that I would need to enter the temple myself! I wont be able to simply send in a team of Adventurers to find and retrieve the tome for me.

Cerebon looked down at him with an expression that was utterly unsympathetic. Even before the System came into existence, people understood that opportunity and danger often came hand in hand.

Zareth couldnt argue with that. Still, his shoulders slumped at the thought of venturing into the Qahtani Desert, let alone facing unknown threats within a lost temple of some dead goddess.

Honestly, the situation probably wasnt as bad as he was making it out to be. Cerebon hadnt given Zareth any sort of timeline, so he would have enough time to prepare as much as he wanted.

Besides, theres nothing stopping him from waiting in the back while a bunch of Adventurers cleared out the worst of the threats. Even in the worst case scenario, Rizok should be strong enough to pull him out of danger.

What could go wrong?

Naturally, you will be well rewarded if you are successful, Cerebon added, smiling like a [Merchant] who was just about to close a big deal. It is only natural, given the danger of the task. Should you find the tome, my servants will be in a much better position to offer you and your city aid against the Conclave.

Zareth immediately perked up at that. Cerebon had already proven to him that his rewards were worth the effort and danger. If the god said that he would be able to help him deal with the Conclave, then Zareth had no reason to doubt him.

Ill see it done, Lord Cerebon, Zareth said, a surge of determination welling up within him. How will I give the tome to you once I acquire it? Is there a particular ritual that I need to perform, or?

One of my other servants will travel to TalQamar to retrieve it, said Cerebon, his expression becoming amused once he saw Zareth stiffen. You need not worry. Ill ensure they are on their best behavior.

Understood. Then I will prepare my temple to receive guests, said Zareth, relieved by the gods reassurance.

Likely sensing that he had no more questions, Cerebon nodded and stood from his throne. Very well. If there is nothing else, then I will return you to the mortal realm. I look forward to observing your progress. I have high expectations for you, Zareth.

As he finished speaking, a wave of energy washed over Zareth and he found himself falling through the same mind bending abyss that hed passed through on his way to Cerebons domain. For some reason, the experience was much less disorientating than before, but it was still deeply unpleasant.

Eventually, the mad swirling of incomprehensible shapes and colors faded away, and Zareth once again found himself looking up at the terrace of his new spire. Hed hoped that time in Cerebons realm would have conveniently passed slower than in the real world, but the ache in his stomach and the slowly setting sun suggested otherwise.

Welcome back, sir. Did you enjoy your journey? Rizok said dryly as he walked over to his prone form from the terraces entrance. I would hope so, given that you were there far longer than expected. I attempted to carry you somewhere more comfortable, but the artifact refused to relinquish you.

Enjoy isnt exactly the word that I would use, Zareth said as his bodyguard helped him up from the ground. Rizok gave a sudden start at the sight of Zareths face, but he very quickly masked his reaction. But it was certainly fruitful. I managed to get some nice rewards, along with a new task. Im sure youll be glad to hear that well eventually be running off into the desert in search of ancient treasures.

The utter exasperation in Rizoks expression made it clear what he thought of that idea. How thrilling, sir. Im sure that it will be a journey to remember.

Zareth ignored Rizoks sarcasm as he stretched the kinks out of his body. Several hours of laying on the ground hadnt done him any good. Once that was done, Zareth finally allowed himself to relax, a wave of tension leaving his body.

From the moment hed entered Cerebons presence and realized that the deity could read his mind, Zareth hadnt allowed himself to relax. While Cerebon didnt seem to be explicitly evil or irrational, the gods demeanor had made it clear that he wasnt someone to be trifled with. Now that the pressure of the situation had been lifted, Zareth felt as if hed suddenly been drained of energy.

Are you alright, sir? Rizok asked, looking at him with a concerned gaze.

Im fine, just a bit worn out, Zareth replied, waving his hand dismissively as he turned away to look at the view from the terrace. Just give me a few moments. Theres something that Id like to do, then Ill be ready to head back home.

Zareth knew that he should probably allocate his newly gained Skill Points, but that was something that could wait until after hed gotten some rest. Making such important decisions while exhausted would be a poor decision.

The only reason that he wasnt already leaving the spire was because he had been in too much of a rush before to enjoy the panoramic view of TalQamar offered by the spire. Now that hed been given the perfect gift from Cerebon to do so, he intended to take full advantage.

Activating [Eye of Cerebon], Zareth stumbled as the third eye given to him by the god opened and he was suddenly flooded with an additional stream of visual information. It was a disorienting experience, but he quickly managed to get the hang of it.

The view was breathtaking. Although it was growing dark, Zareth was able to see the full view of TalQamar as if the sun were hanging high in the sky. The city stretched out below him, the different districts each distinctly visible.

The Spicebloom Bazaar was brightly lit and still bustling with activity as shopkeepers hawked loudly as they attempted to sell exotic goods before the day ended. The military district in the north was still swarming with sharp eyed guards, intent on ensuring that the remaining barracks were not destroyed by the Conclave. The Sunstone Heights to the south was quiet, the elegant estates and gardens of the Great Houses quiet and tranquil. The Slums on the other hand were teeming with life, people running in and out of alleys as they went about their business.

In the distance, he could see the large walls that separated TalQamar from the rest of the Qahtani Desert. The sturdy and worn yellow sandstone structure surrounding the entire oasis that allowed the city to exist. Even the desert itself was an impressive sight, the vast expanse of sand shimmering in the fading light.

Using the [Eye of Cerebon], Zareth felt he could see things that he never would have noticed with his normal eyesight. He saw the flicker of magical wards around the Great Houses estates, the tiny figures moving along the city wall, and, to his surprise, the slight distortions of concealed entities scattered throughout TalQamar.

The sight made it clear to Zareth just how far he had come in these past few months, and how much farther there was to go. He stood there for several minutes, appreciating his first chance to take in the view of the city which had become his home.

Tomorrow, he would worry about the task hed been given by Cerebon. But for now, Zareth allowed himself to enjoy a rare moment of peace.