Veneration

by Valorant

In a world where gods are calamities, its up to Campione to stand against the chaos. None of them of heroes though, each one acting according to their own desires. The newest of Kings is no different, yet he finds himself having to forego his cynicism and truly play the part of champion. AU Campione! (Discontinued)

7. Chapter 6

Disclaimer: The works of Campione(!) and any other used licensed series belong solely to their respective owners. No money will be accepted for this project, as it would be against doing this as a work of passion. Also potentially illegal.

So we arrive to the conclusion of this sub arc. I wanted to do a lot of things with the conclusion to the opening act. Namely set up the foundation for the rest of the Human Rising Arc. For those of you curious, I chose to put that title at the top of the chapter to display the over arcing theme for this specific arc. As the name implies it refers to a rise of humanity, specifically the human spirit. As for the exact nature of how I plan to do this, I can't say without spoiling a good deal of the story. Plus, I trust you the audience to understand the theme as it plays out.

I'm considering doing alternative what if scenario's for Veneration as the story progresses. Meaning if you have an idea you want to see in the story that would not fit in the main project, I'm open to writing it in a separate chronicle. Just a note though, requests for more humorous works are done at your own peril. I am confident in writing 'serious' segments, but well.. I'm not that funny.

My thanks to GoldStar77 for the compliments. Regarding Godou, the reason I gave him a role, which will be expanded in the future, has to do with Jace's character development. I felt the Kusanagi heir was a perfect foil to Jace, minus the God-slaying tendencies. As the two have drastically different world views and behaviors, leading to sharp contrasts. Without spoiling, this dynamic will be explored heavily in the future.

Yeah, the research for those scenes made me hungry too. I plan on highlighting a little of the culture of each country Jace visits, just to give the world of Veneration a more realistic feel. That said, this will be my interpretation of said countries. I'll portray them as accurately as possible, both positives and negatives, but I'll be relying on second and third hand information to do so for the most part. So, if something seems glaringly wrong, feel free to say something. Just please do so politely. If it seems like I'm insulting your country/culture it is not my intention. I'm just trying to make real world scenarios happen, instead of some generic feels good unrealistic setting. Ironic isn't it, attempting to write realism into a fic about another fictional work.

SPOILERS:

A reviewer asked if Jace will be moving to the United States. The answer is no. Jace isn't from the United States nor does he have any reason to travel there; yet. Jace will be heading to Japan for various reasons, but the logical reason, beyond what is in this chapter, is that Jace has little reason to return to his home country; which is Russia. I picked Russia specifically for reasons which will be explored in later chapters. For now though Jace will be based in Japan for the foreseeable future. But he will make excursions to other countries for business and personal reasons. If you want to see Veneration star your country of choice, PM me with a compelling reason for Jace to travel there. No promises, but I am open to outside ideas.

I understand if Jace's back story is so obscure its causing confusion. Unlike canonical Godou, Jace's background has significant impact on the story. If I revealed a large portion of it now it would lessen its impact for later character development. So bear with me.

Regarding the possibility of a harem I will say the following. There will be one. A small one. Jace will not be drawing in lovers left and right, because if he did, the story would lose out on a lot of potential regarding character growth and relationship dynamics I think will be interesting to observe. Frankly massive harems just end up blobifying the love interests, which is counterproductive to what I want to write. That said I intend to write a multitude of relationships beyond just romance, just to explore all the depths of the main cast, especially Jace. As for who those love interests are... I'm not going to say. It will become fairly clear who they are, but I want to write it out instead of just telling you, the audience. In case your preferred character isn't one of the love interests I do have a partial solution. Send me a compelling reason for Jace to be with x character and I might write out a scenario in a separate chronicle like I mentioned above. Oh, and just for the record, Jace is only attracted to women.

Oh and yes, Jace's poor experiences with women will definitely affect how he reacts to relationships and physical intimacy. Unlike other dense protagonists, Jace has legitimate reasons to behave the way he does regarding women. Now to be clear, Jace doesn't hate women. His disdain is far more generalized, he dislikes people in general. Hence why he mocks everyone so much, or is so easily willing to inflict pain on others. It's something of a defense mechanism, which will make sense once I start revealing his past.

But straight up, Jace isn't a nice person.

Now, enjoy.

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Veneration

Human Rising Arc

Chapter 6: Shattering the Storm

What matters more? Pride or Ideals?

The day started early; the sun had only begun cresting the horizon when the god hunting began. Jace had insisted on it, so the villa's staff woke him and his companions at the prescribed time. Foregoing a lavish breakfast, Jace, Erica and Godou hurriedly ate a simple meal of cured meat and toast. Cappozi eager to regain Jace's favor after the maid debacle, offered his own private boat as an expeditionary vehicle.

The clipper was technically a yacht, but a smaller vessel than most people's imagination would think up. Regardless it was the bow of the vessel that Jace, Erica, Godou, and Cappozi found themselves on that morning. Without a concrete heading, it came down to Jace literally pointing to the location in which he felt Melqart. Despite the unorthodox navigation the sole crew of the vessel, a brave helmsman, kept the yacht at a steady clip toward its unknown destination.

Jace felt that pull signaled a Heretic God, so he motioned toward the helmsman 3 degrees toward the southeast. The ship lurched as it turned into an oncoming wave. The wave washed a little bit of water over the lip of the side. Erica frowned as she stepped back to avoid the wash.

"The waves shouldn't be this strong without a storm. Yet they're churning like a gale is passing through." The blond knight gazed pass Jace, seeing the growing waves in the distance.

"Do you think that means Melqart is close by?" Godou asked with some nervousness.

Erica nodded in confirmation. "It would stand to reason, Mr. Kusanagi."

"We're definitely getting close. I can practically feel Melqart. Cappozi are there any islands nearby?" Jace aligned his arm with an invisible dot on the horizon. The yacht turned in response, as the helmsman did his best to navigate the restless sea.

"Only one of substantial size Maestá. Heretic God Melqart must be on that island." Cappozi stood next to Jace, pointing toward an unseen point in the distance. "It should be visible within the hour."

Jace stared at the spot the baron indicated. His gaze narrowed, just knowing where Melqart should be, only made that pull stronger. The god was certainly nearby. Jace looked to Cappozi, asking "Is the island inhabited?"

Cappozi mulled the question over, drawing from his memory. "No. I think not Maestá. It has never been of substantial use, so except for fishing respites no one should be there." The baron responded.

"Good. No one to get in the way then." Jace spoke.

Godou smiled, relieved that no one else was in danger from the approaching battle. He misunderstood Jace's concern. "Yeah, I'd hate to see anyone get hurt. Do you think Melqart-kami chose this spot because he thought the same?" The Japanese teen spoke aloud.

Erica was doubtful of such intentions. "I doubt it Mr. Kusanagi, Melqart likely chose this location due to its centralization in the Mediterranean. It would be far easier to create a storm to flood the lowlands from this position." Erica's sharp glare expressed her anger with Melqart.

Godou frowned at Erica's suggestion. His hope that maybe Melqart had been lying about sinking the Mediterranean was dashed. The Japanese teen's frown only deepened as he thought about all the lives in danger. Godou really detested bullies and he was starting to realize that Melqart was far worse than any ordinary bully. Melqart was playing with human lives as if they didn't matter and frankly it was pissing the Japanese teen off. Everyone has the right to live, he thought. Godou still had reservations about the way Jace handled the warehouse situation. But. The Campione was going to fight Melqart on behalf of all the people who were in danger, so Godou would do his utmost to support Jace.

Godou focused on Jace, his features hardening. When Godou spoke it was with the most authoritative tone he'd ever used in his life. "Armell-sama, kick Melqart-kami's ass."

Jace turned his head, gave a humpf, and smirked, amused by the sudden audacity and eagerness for battle Godou was displaying. "Count on it." Jace said in response.

()

As Cappozi had stated, they reached the island within an hour. Jace felt the pull morph into a growing heat in his blood, the urge to battle rising higher and higher. Melqart was unquestionably on the island. The Campione and party just needed to confront the mighty god. As they disembarked Jace felt a sudden surge of what he guessed was divine power.

"You've finally arrived whelp. I had begun to think you wouldn't show."

The disembodied voice boomed from the sky. Everyone looked over the shoreline trying to find Melqart but found nothing but sand. The voice boomed again, a gale whipping over the boat.

"I've arranged a little test to see if you can handle the power you've stolen. Conquer it and you may face me; but know you will be smote by Melqart. Now come."

Jace scowled, knowing he was walking into a trap. He hated every bit of it. "Called it. Whatever. I just need to overcome Melqart's test, then pound the god into the sand." He spoke with conviction.

Erica nodded. The blond knight was ready to do battle, or more accurately support the Campione who was to do the real fighting. Magic spells had been laid in layers upon her person for protection. None of them would stop a determined god but would at least protect her from indirect attacks. Cappozi while not as skilled, cast his own magics. Godou though had to go without, as neither Erica nor Cappozi specialized in casting defensive spells on others. It would be up to Godou to protect himself, as Jace couldn't spare the focus to protect him.

Which was something that was bothering the blond knight. The mixed signals Jace gave regarding their safety weren't reassuring. He'd went out of his way to save both herself and Godou more than once, but the man's attitude suggested he would be fine if they died. It left Erica wondering just what the mindset of the Seventh Campione was.

It wasn't long after disembarking that Jace, Erica, Godou, and Cappozi discovered Melqart's test.

Skeletal hands erupted from the earth. The bony fingers grit the ground, digging in, pulling out equally skeletal arms. Skulls followed, then the whole skeleton, as the undead creatures pulled themselves from the lamented earth.

"What the hell are they?!" Godou shrieked, the panicked young man skipping backwards as one of the creatures pulled themselves out of the ground next to him. Jace reacted in the instant Godou sounded out. The Campione kicked outward, crashing his boot into the offending creature's skull. It toppled backward like a person, despite it having no ligaments, and thus it should have fallen apart. Before the skeleton could do anything, Jace brought his boot crashing down onto the creature's skull. The force smashed it against the ground where it fractured and split into pieces. The undead creature dissolved into shadows, leaving behind no traces of the former skeleton.

"Blandelli." Jace called out, staring down the other undead creatures as the finished rising.

Erica nodded, understanding the unspoken question. "Undead servants, souls of the dead brought back to the world of the living. One of Melqart's Authorities must grant him control over the dead and enable their use as servants. Be careful, their raw touch is likely to be dangerous to the living."

"Heretic God Melqart must have an aspect of the Underworld in his character. Be careful Maestá, there is no telling the extents of this Authority." Cappozi called out.

The undead surrounded the Campione and party, gathering around them in the dozens. Their backs to each other, the four saw the skeletons were forming a rough circle around them. Soon no escape route remained.

"Well, seems were surrounded." Jace casually called out. The Campione didn't like the situation but wasn't going to lose his cool over it. No. He'd stay calm and figure a way out of this.

"Lord Armell, allow me to deal with this." Erica stalked forward a meter from the group.

"Blandelli?" Jace wondered what the blond knight was talking about, though he never took his eyes off the skeletons as they closed in.

The blond knight manifested her sword. "Save your Authorities for a direct battle with Melqart. I likely cannot defeat this Authority, but I can at least hold them off for some time. Use that opportunity to find and defeat Melqart." Erica proposed a solution to their predicament. Jace was surprised the blond knight was so willing to risk her own neck to help him. Then he remembered her words the previous night 'Therefore, my goal is to see you the victor Lord Armell, at all costs.' Against everything Jace knew, he was beginning to suspect that Erica had been sincere. He wasn't used to that.

"If you're feeling brave blondie don't let me stop you." Jace quipped.

Erica frowned at the nickname, but said nothing about it, instead focusing her resolve on the task at hand. The blond knight began chanting. "Lion of Steel flay my foes, stop them in their tracks. Let none assail me, become an encompassing storm of steel!" Cuere di Leone dissolved in a flash or red light. Erica spread her hands, gesturing outward.

The magic sword reappeared. Though this time it wasn't just one sword. It was a half dozen blades, exact replicas of the true Cuere di Leone. The blond knight pointed one finger imperiously at the nearest undead. "That which begets you, the Lion Heart! Roar Cuere di Leone!" The swords launched forward, streaking toward the skeletons. The first sword buried itself to the hilt in the chest of an undead. A second sword did the same as the first sword, and so on. The Undead Servants didn't fall apart as they were pierced through, instead they dissolved into oily shadows.

Jace whistled, impressed at the magical display. "Nice."

Godou was likewise impressed. "Incredible! You're awesome Blandelli-san."

Erica preened under the compliments. "It's just an application of alchemical magic. But a fairly complicated one considering the unique properties of Cuere di Leone." The blond knight didn't rest on her laurels for long though. The undead creatures took the opening strike as a cue to attack. They surged forward in a mindless drove, uncaring if they unbalanced their fellows. Erica didn't falter in the face of the oncoming tide. She calmly manifested more swords and launched them in short order. More of the undead servants fell their numbers thinning.

Godou thought that the battle was going strongly in their favor. Jace on the other hand noticed something off. The number of skeletons hadn't dropped significantly despite Erica's attacks. He looked beyond the immediate ring of skeletons and saw something that made him frown.

"Blandelli, more of the skeletons are digging themselves out of the ground." Jace commented.

Erica took her eyes off the encroaching hoard and peered into the back layers of the undead servants. If it wasn't unbefitting of a knight and a lady Erica would have cursed. Jace was right, as she slayed an undead servant a new one rose to take its place. The blond knight unanalyzed the situation and realized the nature of the Authority. While they weren't particularly durable, the undead servants had numbers. If those numbers were unlimited, they could simply overwhelm their prey until it fell out of exhaustion even if said prey possessed greater offensive and defensive capabilities. Erica knew she couldn't do this forever. While her mana reserves were impressive for a human, they were nothing compared to a Heretic God's. The undead servants would keep regenerating until her reserves ran dry and she and her party were buried in a tidal wave of enemies.

Erica relayed to Jace her analysis, urging him to find Melqart before they were overwhelmed. The blond knight unleashed a particularly lethal volley of swords, opening a corridor between the undead. Jace sprinted for it.

He didn't get far before the earth shook.

The land shook as if a great beast was walking on it. Jace came to an abrupt halt, sensing a new threat. A massive crack in the ground opened up, spewing out black light. Out of the crack emerged a giant talon. It came, hauling itself out of the ground with sinuous grace. Earthen brown scales gleamed in the light as the monstrosity fully emerged.

Serpentine eyes glowered at the humans and Campione. Those baleful eyes set into a skull the size of a car, with spikes jutting out the back. A short stubby neck conjoined to a set of powerful broad shoulders. The length of the creature was twice that of an American semi, all that bulk was supported by four muscular legs. At the base of those legs jutted out talons that raked the earth.

"A dragon!" Erica gasped.

It was indeed a dragon. A large earthen brown wyrm. It was majestic in a horrifying way, all that power in such a frame; at least Jace thought so. The Campione noticed something was off about the drake though.

"Where are its wings?" Jace, unperturbed by the beast's appearance, cast his gaze where the wings should have been. The shoulder blades were bare of the vestigial membranes indicating wings. Jace was somewhat disappointed by this fact. He had hoped since entering the magical world that if he ever encountered a dragon, it would have wings.

"Focus Lord Armell, dragons, wings or not, are powerful creatures. I'm afraid this is beyond me. The undead servants are within my capabilities but a Divine Beast… is more than I can defeat." Erica reluctantly admitted her limitation, swallowing as she gazed upon the Divine Beast.

A cold chill ran down Erica's spine as she met the dragon's glare. She wanted to run.

Erica, who never ran from a challenge, wanted to run away. At first Erica was shocked by the thought. It would be one thing to retreat. But to fearfully run away like a rabbit, it was unlike her. It was as the feeling of dread intensified it made sense to her.

The Authority that spawned the drake must grant it an ability to distill fear within anyone who entered its area of effect the blond knight realized. Not just the fear of being eaten by a large predator, but a preternatural fear that bypassed the rationality of the brain and stimulated the prey mentality of the human psyche. It was a fitting ability for a dragon, as they were the apex of legendary monsters in myths. In those myths dragons preyed on humans, fulfilling the role of an undefeatable predator.

Erica stood her ground despite the Authority's effect. It wasn't easy, but Erica was strong of will and it didn't hurt she had cast a few spells to help resist such maladies.

Cappozi had prepared a similar measure but was faring worse. His lesser resolve and skill compared to the Great Knight, kept him from being able to perform any real action. He wouldn't panic, but Cappozi was using all his courage to simply stay where he was.

Godou on the other hand was doing poorer. "Should, should we run?" The Japanese teen wasn't panicking but he was suddenly having second thoughts about doing this. The effect of the dragon's aura was potent. "Armell-sama, should we run?" Godou's voice rose in pitch, along with his rising anxiety. Despite this Godou stayed where he was, not breaking, which would have been understandable given the circumstances. While it might have been seen as evidence of lackluster will power, it was quite the opposite. For Godou to maintain his rationality in the face of the dragon's aura was a feat most couldn't have accomplished. Especially since no spell work was laid to bolster the Kusanagi's heir's mental defenses. Godou's weakness was that he wasn't willing to risk his life. Without the resolve to put everything on the line, Godou's fear was being amplified by the Authorities effect.

Jace walked forward of the Kusanagi heir, placing himself a little closer to the dragon. What he said in response to Godou would later prove to be a life altering statement. "Run if you want Kusanagi. Take your chances with the skeletons. If you have some balls, get behind me, because I'm going to fight." Jace turned to look over his shoulder, staring Godou dead in the eye. "I'm going to kick Melqart's bloody ass. Jace Armell fights till he wins."

Godou's mouth opened into an O, something about the words ringing deep within him. Godou couldn't place his finger on it but, something about Jace in that moment seemed to transcend the physical. It was almost like when Verethragna took control of him. But different. Like he was being suffused with courage. Godou took a deep breath, then exhaled, his features hardening. "Sumani. I lost myself for a moment, Armell-sama. Don't worry about me, I'll be fine. Just kick Melqart-kami's ass." Godou clenched his fist, sudden resolve flooding his veins. He wasn't strong enough to fight himself. But dammit! He wasn't going to drag down the one person who could actually fight. The least he could do was not get in the way, if not offer support.

Jace nodded in acquiescence.

Turning his attention to the danger at hand, Jace found the dragon was simply watching him. Jace guessed the beast was waiting for him to act first; he didn't know why but that was what his intuition was telling him. Jace cracked his knuckles, preparing for battle.

"Lord Armell, do you have a plan to defeat the beast?" Erica asked.

Jace didn't turn away from the dragon but answered "Yeah. Kill it."

Erica nearly laughed at the simplicity of the answer. The laconic attitude of the Seventh Campione was growing on her. "I meant a method of doing so, or do you plan to strangle it to death with your bare hands?"

Jace smiled a fraction at the quip. Answering he said "Not a bad idea. Heh. Remember our talk last night. About how Verethragna's Authorities work. I think one of them just woke up."

Erica's eyes light up as she recalled their prior conversation. If one of Verethragna's Authorities was reacting, then it might just prove to be the perfect counter to their current situation. "I see. Very well, I shall hold off the Undead Servants, while you defeat the dragon." Erica placed her back to Jace, trusting him to defeat the Divine Beast.

Erica launched a new volley of swords. It signaled the new phase of the battle.

The dragon and Undead Servants, which had halted their advance, charged once more.

Jace didn't blink as the massive Divine Beast lumbered toward him. He just stoically stared it down.

Jace reached for the Authority that had begun yearning for his attention the moment the dragon manifested. The Words of Power flowed from his lips.

"Thus spoke Lord Mithra."

Jace could see the icon representing Verethragna's Authority begin to spin.

"The sinful shall be met with justice."

The six avatars swirled about the pyramid, each one representing a form of victory.

"May spines be crushed, may bones be broken, tendons torn; hair, brains, and blood mingled and trampled together with the earth!"

The wheel stopped. The icon that stood atop the pyramid was the avatar of the boar.

"The one unblunted and unapproachable! Oath breaking sinners be purged by the iron hammer of justice!"

Jace raised his hands to the air, palms up, an amber aura exuding from the Campione. Something began to rise from his upward palms. The air seemed to still as the thing manifested, the silence that accompanies a great predator. Up it rose, pushing Jace down, the weight of the thing cratering the ground beneath Jace's feet. Despite the weight Jace held it up, yet he could feel it straining to break free from his hold. Straining to rampage.

Blood red eye glowed with wrath. Two lines of flame burned down the length of its back. Its ivory white tusks were sharpened to sword points. An incarnation of destruction. The [Boar] of Verethragna. But this time it wasn't aimed at Jace. This time it was aimed at the dragon.

All Jace had to do was set it free.

Jace felt an upwelling within him, he wanted to unleash it. The Campione roared. The [Boar] roared in response to its master's cry.

Jace threw with all his might, unleashing his Authority.

The ground shook as the [Boar] touched down. The Divine Beast charged, rushing tusk first at its opponent. The dragon, half the size of the [Boar] roared in response, then charged itself.

The two behemoths clashed in a tide of fur, scale, tusk, and fang.

It was an awe-inspiring sight, in a brutally imposing way. Jace found himself watching with an amount of enthusiasm he'd only felt during his bout with Verethragna. Godou and Cappozi were likewise captivated, if not also terrified by the titanic clash.

Erica didn't watch, dutifully holding back the Undead Servants.

The two Divine Beasts clashed. Tearing into each other with bloodthirst. Yet Jace noted with apt attention the two weren't equal.

The [Boar] was the mightier beast.

When they clashed the dragon was pushed back not the [Boar]. When they tore into each other, the [Boar] shrugged off the attack, the dragon was forced to retreat. Each maiming seemed to only enrage the [Boar] further, making its attacks more vicious.

In the end the clash only lasted a few minutes. While the dragon was a mighty Divine Beast, it was not a match for the [Boar]. The dragon was a mere Divine Beast, a construct of whatever Authority Melqart was utilizing to spawn it. While the [Boar] as an incarnation of Verethragna himself, granting greater weight in terms of divine presence, and therefore overall might.

The rampage ended when the [Boar] flipped its bloodied opponent over. The dragon flailed but was gored through its heart. The dragon gave a whining keel of pain, then lay still. It dissolved into a mound of earth. The [Boar] reared up on its hind legs, roaring in victory over its defeated opponent. The celebration did not last long though.

"Maestá!" Cappozi shouted, gesticulating wildly. A literal whirlwind smashed into the [Boar], sending it stumbling, despite its immense bulk. The churning wind swung around, assaulting the Divine Beast once more. The winds spun faster, tearing into the ground beneath as if it was sand. The windstorm obscured the [Boar] from view, no different than when Verethragna's [Gale] had devoured it days prior. Jace could feel the windstorm tearing into the [Boar], shredding the Divine Beast. It resisted, attempting to charge its way out of the whirlwind, but to no avail. The [Boar] did not die easily though, the strong divinity of the Authority sustaining it for a time. But eventually it had to fall. Fall it did. Over the cyclone one last roar of rage was heard as the [Boar] thrashed. Then it was over.

The windstorm dissipated and out of the winds stepped Melqart.

"Ha! The mighty Boar falls!" Melqart's proclaimed, raising a fist skyward in victory. The gigantic god stood majestic and proud. "Now usurper, what else do you have to show the king? Or is that all the tricks you received from the Warlord." Melqart lowered his arm, waiting for an answer.

Jace stood stoically, unphased by the defeat of his Authority. He placed his hands in his pocket, as if unconcerned by the worsening situation. "Oh, I got tricks left God. I assume if you're showing yourself, I passed your test."

"Just barely whelp. Relying on humans still I see. If you dare to proclaim yourself king, you should lead, sword first. Instead of hiding behind them as a shield." Melqart's disproval was ripe. But Jace was still unphased. He'd survived this long by using every advantage he could get his hands on, having Erica fight on his behalf was no issue. The Campione was starting to appreciate the Great Knights' combat abilities.

Jace attempted to summon the [Boar] again, hoping to use the Divine Beast against the giant god.

Yet the [Boar] wouldn't answer Jace's call. The Campione pulled at the Authority, to no avail, it refused to respond. Jace mentally cursed. He didn't have to time to figure out why the [Boar] wouldn't answer his summons, despite its earlier eagerness for battle. Instead, he needed to figure out how to proceed without it.

First things first. Melqart needed to be brought down to size.

"Oi, Melqart. Do you really intend to fight me like that?" Jace inquired to the god.

"What do you mean whelp?" Melqart rumbled, unsure of what the Campione was insinuating.

"I mean, you don't intend to fight me while that size, do you? Doesn't seem fair to me." Jace crossed his arms as if offended.

"Fair? There is no fairness in a fight, only the means of victory. You should know that well if you are a God-slayer." The Divine King rebuked Jace. To Melqart a fair fight was a ploy of the weak. True warriors utilized their full power to crush their foes.

"Oh, I do. It's just that I thought you had more pride. Afterall what kind of god is too afraid to face their opponent head on. So afraid of being killed you need to be a giant just to feel safe." Jace was now taunting the Divine King. He was doing so for a reason. Jace knew fighting Melqart while the god was giant sized was far more dangerous than if the god was human sized. The threat of being pulverized was present in his mind. Without the [Boar] Jace didn't know if any of his other Authorities besides [Archaic Flame] would prove effective against Melqart in his current size. Of course, Jace had no way of knowing if Melqart could alter his size in the first place. But his gut told him it was the right course of action and it had never led him astray.

Had Melqart been a god known for his cunning the plan might not have worked. Melqart was no idiot, but the god wasn't renowned for any particular feat of cunning either. What Melqart was known for was his pride. Multiple aspects of Melqart were associated with kingship or reigning. The ego that makes a king was well instilled in the Heretic God Melqart. In this instance of incarnation Melqart was particularly effected. Melqart's descent onto the world had afflicted him with [Heresy], like all Heretic Gods. Melqart's particular Heresy blighted him to an inflated ego. One that would stand no insults.

As such Jace's plan succeeded.

"You dare! Usurper, Melqart shall force you to prostrate yourself before a true king, before vanquishing you! Very well, prepare Jace Armell. For Melqart shall show you the depth of his prowess." The Divine King's furor was palatable. Melqart began to shrink down. It was impossible, the way mass was being shed. Melqart should have become far denser or given off the excess mass in some manner. He did neither. Melqart simply willed himself to a smaller form. A trait of an Authority no doubt. Such was the divine properties of an Authority, the ability to overwrite the natural laws of physics of the mortal plane.

Now human sized at two meters, the Ancient King readied himself for combat. [Yagarish] and [Ayamari] manifested, clutched in Melqart's hands. The Ancient King started striding forward, marching to meet his opponent. Jace did likewise marching to meet Melqart at that slow steady pace. The two met stopped a little distance from each other at an unspoken invitation to speak. Jace was the taller one, so the sun over his back seemed to be crowning his head from Melqart's perceptions.

"Are you ready to meet your fate Godling? For Melqart shall humble that arrogance that led you to slay a god." Melqart boasted, tone full of confidence.

Jace grinned, a not so friendly grin. "Oh, I'm ready. Though you got one thing wrong Melqart."

Melqart's eyes narrowed at Jace's insinuation. "What has Melqart, the King of the Ancestral Line spoke ill-informed of?"

Jace's grin turned into a smirk. "Simple, it's you who's going to eat dirt today Melqart."

Melqart growled, a bestial utterance. "It will be a pleasure to bring you defeat whelp. Now battle!"

Melqart flexed his right arm, bringing [Yagarish] to a fighting position. Melqart swung the club aiming to crack it across Jace's ribcage. Jace though was ready for it. The Campione jumped backward, avoiding the blow by a narrow margin. Melqart didn't hesitate to follow up on his attack, now bringing [Ayamari] to the fore. The lightning clad club was evaded by the same narrow margins as its counterpart. The pattern went on for a time, an attack, an evade, repeat. Jace though knew he couldn't dodge forever. Melqart was fast. Faster than a man of his size had any right to be. Then again Jace reasoned, Melqart was a god, not a man. The speed shouldn't be a surprise, Verethragna moved faster than a mortal man had any right to.

Jace needed to go on the offense, but he had to be careful. Jace could feel the wind rippling off of the missed strikes, speaking of the immense force behind the blows. One hit might very well cripple or kill even his enhanced Campione body. So, Jace used an old tactic from his younger days. One from when he been a child fighting older boys and men, before he became the giant he is today. He had no idea if it would work on Melqart, but he had to try something. Jace waited for the swing, [Yagarish] raised high, then… he stepped into the blow. Melqart faltered. It was only for a fraction of a second, but the god's surprise that Jace would meet a blow head on, made him slow his swing. If Jace had been human, it would have failed. The window of opportunity would have breezed past him. But Jace was a Campione. His reflexes were honed to a razor edge from countless fights, and now enhanced by his newfound vitality he was just able to step into and past the arc of the gale-clad club.

Jace grabbed onto Melqart's right arm, the arm holding [Yagarish] and clamped it to his body. Then he launched a kick straight into Melqart's knee, angled to strike from the side. Melqart's knew went out from under the god, destabilizing him. Jace seized the opportunity, yanking with the arm trapping Melqart's. It sent the god tumbling down. Jace wasn't done though. He launched a savage uppercut with his free hand into Melqart's abdominals. The god grunted from the impact. Jace launched another and another, the three punches all striking the Divine King before his knee hit the ground.

Jace's instincts roared. He needed to get back now!

Jace let go of Melqart's arm and leaped back. Or at least tried to. [Ayamari] still clipped Jace on the side of this ribs. Jace felt like ten-thousand volts just went through his body. It was painful as hell he thought for the lightning from [Ayamari] to zap his body. Jace's body was sent careening back as even the asymmetrical impact from the divine club still carried enormous energy. Jace managed to land on his feet somehow. Grimacing in pain, Jace felt the spot where he'd been struck. Yeah, it was going to leave a nasty bruise, he could just tell. Fortunately, nothing felt broken, but he was fairly certain he might have fractured something.

Melqart rose from his kneeling position. Unscathed. "Hmmph. Is that the best you can do whelp? I barely felt your attacks. Surely you have greater strength than that if you usurped power from a God of [War] and [Victory]." The contempt in Melqart's voice was clear as day, the god was unimpressed.

"Lord Armell! Remember Melqart possesses a nature of a God of [Steel]! His armor likely confers divine protection, rendering him resistant to physical attacks!" Erica yelled at Jace, attempting to transfer her knowledge of the god known as Melqart to the Campione. As it was, she would have preferred fighting directly alongside Jace to even the playing field. Unfortunately, that was impossible. The skeletons were still coming at her and the others. No doubt to keep them from interfering in the duel.

"Right. Thanks blondie!" Jace hollered back. Erica frowned at the nickname but didn't dwell on it.

"Hmm. It seems you have a knowledgeable servant Godling. Did she warn you that it would be your downfall to engage me? Or are you too much of a fool to heed wisdom?" Melqart twirled his clubs in hand. The god wasn't particularly concerned with ending the battle, it would be his win whether he crushed Jace know or later. The Divine King's hopes that the battle would at least be entertaining were slowly being worn away. Jace Armell should have gained significant strength from defeating Verethragna. Yet, the battle was going slow.

Jace for his part was figuring a way around that divine protection. [Archaic Flame] jumped to mind. The fiery Authority would be perfect. Except it would kill Erica and Godou. Jace wasn't attached to them, but it would leave a bad taste in his mouth to simply kill them off because it was more convenient. Not after all they were doing to assist him. Cappozi didn't register on his radar, Jace knew where the baron's intentions lied. No, [Archaic Flame] wasn't an option, not while dependents were on the battlefield.

That said Jace did have options. Two Authorities were waiting to be called. It was simply a matter of choosing the one he thought would best solve the current dilemma before him. The [Warrior] was tempting, just bust out a divinity severing sword and literally cut Melqart to pieces. But Jace's gut was not telling him to go with that. No, it was telling him to go with option two. Jace thought about it in the seconds that followed while Melqart came charging back in.

Jace listened to his gut. It had never steered him wrong before.

"For I am the strongest amongst the strong."

The Words of Power flowed from Jace's lips. Instantly Jace felt a heady rush through his veins.

"Truly, I am the one who holds each and every victory."

Melqart's strength didn't seem so impressive now. In fact, Jace felt, no knew he could trump the warrior god's brawn.

"I care not whom challenges me, whether man, demon, or god; I shall face all my foes and all my enemies."

Melqart brought both his clubs down in an overhead swing. On a normal person that would actually reduce the strength able to be put in either arm, lowering the overall attack power. With Melqart's herculean strength it didn't matter, it would still smash Jace flat, Campione or not.

"Regardless, I shall crush all who wouldst stand in my way."

Jace thrust both his arms out, hands opened wide.

He caught Melqart by the hands gripped around [Yagarish] and [Ayamari].

And stopped the clubs cold.

Jace wrenched Melqart's arms apart, then kicked the god square in the gut. The strength now behind the blow sent Melqart flying. Literally. Tens of meters the god went sailing through the air, only to hit the ground, then continue to skid over it for several meters.

"That was awesome!" Godou enthusiastically shouted. Jace shared the opinion though he didn't say it aloud. Jace actually took the opportunity to admire his body. He could feel the unbridled strength flowing in his muscles. Oh, he liked this Authority, the [Bull] was going to be a favorite he thought to himself.

Motion from where Melqart landed snapped the Campione back to reality. Melqart was rising. When the god was fully stood up, Jace saw something less than reassuring. Melqart was unscathed.

"Not bad whelp. You seem to have finally gotten strong enough to actually fight like a warrior. Though it will take more to defeat Melqart." The god calmly stated, as if he hadn't been launched across the sky. Melqart began running at Jace, moving at speeds human athletes only dreamed of moving at. Jace empowered by the [Bull], began charging himself, each step cratering the ground from where he kicked off.

The two warriors met, Melqart going for a smash, forcing Jace to evade. Jace attempted to close the distance, get inside the reach of Melqart's clubs again. But the god would not allow it. Jace was forced to backstep, jump, and pirouette out of the way. If not for his long experience in fights Jace would have already fallen to Melqart's skill. The way the divine clubs came crashing down was nothing short of a lethal barrage of blows.

It was as Jace was dodging from another strike from the Divine King, that the Campione found his opening. It was a small thing. No more than the size of a baseball, the stone was just barely visible through the unkempt grass on the island. Jace felt it as he slid backward, an abrasive resistance to the heel of his boot. Many would simply have ignored it. Jace didn't. He was the type to take advantage of his surroundings to win a fight, even the seemingly innocuous.

Jace had only seconds to formulate a plan, Melqart was giving him little breathing room. It would have to be simple. But as the Campione had learned over ten years, simple was sometimes best. Simple was hard to screw-up, and when it mattered like this, you wanted no screw-ups. Jace thought it over, breathed deeply, and put his plan into action.

The Campione dropped to all four, taking a position familiar to those who watch traditional Greco-Roman wrestling. Jace leaned into his hands, acting as if he was going to launch forward. The stone was grasped in his hand, concealed by the posture. Melqart, unaware of the plot, charged forward. Jace pushed off with his legs, preparing to tackle the Divine King. Melqart, believing Jace was going for a tackle, prepared to meet him.

In the short span after Jace moved forward and before contact he enacted his plan.

The arm holding the stone came up, a sideways swing aimed at Melqart's head. The god had never seen the stone in Jace's hand, instead focusing in on the perceived threat of Jace's tackle. It was a mistake. And it would cost the god.

The stone sailed through the air, going at least two hundred miles per hour. It crashed into Melqart's face. The stone completely shattered apart. Melqart was more or less unscathed, the energy behind the stone not enough to overcome the divine properties of his armor. It did make the god flinch though.

It wasn't for long, but Melqart had been caught off guard.

Jace saw his opening. He finished his tackle taking Melqart squarely in the gut. The Divine King started backward, nearly toppling over, as Jace pushed the god off his feet. Jace wrenched Melqart upward, lifting the god into the air. Jace twirled, then threw Melqart into the air once more. This time though Jace didn't send the god a far distance. No, Jace just needed the Divine King close, lest he recover. Jace followed the airborne god as soon Melqart was released from his grip.

The god landed heavily, on his back, imprinting the ground. Melqart attempted to rise, rolling over to place one hand below him. The god never made it up. Jace was on him. The Campione slid behind Melqart, throwing one arm over the god's head. Jace slid the arm down to the base of the god's neck, grabbed the arm with his free hand, and pulled. Melqart let out a strangled grunt as his airway was constricted. Melqart struggled to break free, but Jace wasn't allowing it, the Campione tightening his strangle hold over Melqart.

The Divine King began thrashing like a wild beast, doing his best to free himself from the strangle hold. Yet, Jace held on, his superior strength granted by the [Bull] enough to keep the lock. If Melqart had been mortal this would have been the end of the fight. The strangle hold would have forced the god unconscious. Melqart though was a Heretic God, and thus didn't need to breathe the same as a human. It would debilitate the god, but not kill him. For the Divine King this was a nuisance, albeit a major one. It was now just up to Melqart to find a way to break the lock within his experience in battle. Melqart though wasn't an inexperienced fighter, quite the opposite, the Divine King had fought countless battels in myth as well as on the mortal plane. Therefore, Melqart found the means to break free of the lock. He just needed to free his hands up. Melqart dissipated [Yagasish] and [Ayamari], then seized Jace's arms with his now free hands. Melqart bent over, taking Jace off his feet, then pulled downward, all in one smooth motion.

Even with Jace's superior strength, it wasn't enough to keep him from being yanked off the god. He lacked the leverage needed to brace himself. Jace was now the one sent to the ground, landing flat on his back, while depressing the earth below the impact. Melqart stood upright, then brought his foot down onto Jace's head, intent on smashing the Campione's head in. Fortunately for Jace his reaction time as a Campione was superior to a human's enabling him to catch Melqart's stomp. Jace pulled hard, yanking Melqart off his feet, dropping the god to the ground.

Now both opponents were flat on the earth, turning it into a ground game.

Exactly where Jace wanted to be. They were in his domain now.

What occurred next was something neither Erica nor Godou would ever forget. They watched on as Jace Armell, outwrestled a god. Now, Melqart was not a God of War, he did not have the same innate martial prowess as Verethragna. Melqart was still technically a God of Steel. This essence granted him skill in physical combat. Melqart's skill should have outshone the likes of a mortal by leaps and bounds. As humans were limited by physical ability, experience, and innate talent. This was true of all normal humans. But what if a human was abnormal? Possessing unreasonable talent; such an absurd level of talent they went beyond normal human limitations. Talent enough to overcome the inherent disparity between them and a god. Combined that talent with an overwhelming drive to win and absurd luck, and you have a potent mix. Potent enough to overturn the wheel of fate, forging a new outcome through sheer dogged determination.

That's what happened when Jace grappled with Melqart.

Jace kept the grip on Melqart's leg, attempting to lock it into place and hopefully break it. Melqart resisted, kicking like a wild beast to free the leg. Jace, to avoid having his head literally kicked off, yielded the appendage. The Campione wouldn't rest idle though, throwing himself at Melqart. It toppled the god, who had just risen to a kneeling position, over. Jace chose not to assume the mount position. He couldn't just rain blows on Melqart, not with the god's Authority of protection. No, Jace needed to lock down a limb.

Jace grasped Melqart's right arm, throwing himself over the god and landing on his back.

Jace pulled the arm to extend it, twisting as he did. Melqart pulled opposite, trying to free his arm. Jace simply pushed against Melqart's body with his legs, adding more pressure to the lock.

The pull lasted for thirty seconds, with the Campione and Heretic God straining to achieve their goal. But it had to end, the strain on Melqart's arm was too great for something not to give. With an audible crack Melqart's arm bent backwards, in the opposite direction of where it should. The God howled, a mixture of pain and rage.

Melqart though, wasn't done. Not yet. The god fought through the pain of the broken elbow, using the looseness its created to twist in Jace's grasp. The Divine King reached over and grasped the Campione's leg. Melqart pulled and swung, easily tossing Jace into the air due to his superhuman strength. Jace landed heavily but did break his fall. The ground gained the indentation of the Campione's body. The Campione flipped over, pushing off his hands to bring himself to all fours. Melqart had likewise risen.

The two combatants looked at each other, then exchanging a silent signal, they charged. When they met Melqart was pushed back by Jace's greater might. Skidding Melqart fought to retain balance, Jace went lower, grasping Melqart around the waist. Jace lifted, hauling the Divine King into the sky once again. Jace didn't throw Melqart this time though, instead the Campione slammed his opponent into the ground. Jace then released Melqart's waist, grabbing the god by the legs instead. Then Jace did something unorthodox, he spun Melqart by the legs, flipping the god onto his stomach. Jace stomped on Melqart's back as the god attempted to rise. Jace then swung himself onto the god's back, pulling back on the legs.

It wasn't a traditional lock, as the position would be extremely hard to achieve without a severe disparity between two fighters in terms of strength. Such as the disparity granted by Jace's [Bull] Authority. Jace used the unorthodox position to simultaneously pull back on Melqart's legs, while pressing down on the god's spine. This prevented Melqart from flexing his body in a manner to relieve pressure on his lower back.

If Jace hadn't been granted the level of strength he had, he never could have pulled this technique off. He simply wouldn't have the might to apply enough pressure from the awkward angle. Yet he did. So, when Jace flexed with all that might, against Melqart's instinctive endeavor to pull his legs in the opposing direction, Melqart's spine gave.

The god went still as his spine was snapped. Jace let go once he knew Melqart had lost control of his lower body. The Campione rose up, breathing heavily, admiring his handiwork. Jace was honestly impressed by that last-minute inspiration to bend Melqart's spine.

Jace looked down on Melqart seeing the broken god, lying their seemingly defenseless. Something about this didn't seem right. Jace felt as if this was too easy.

"Oi. Melqart. You ready to submit?" Jace posed the question.

Melqart growled. "Melqart does not yield whelp."

Jace was about to speak again, when it hit him. Jace braced himself, but still lost his footing when a column of wind slammed into him. When Jace attempted to dig himself into the ground to resist, Melqart upped the intensity, blowing the Campione away.

He landed heavily, back near Godou and the others. Fortunately, the wind had only enough strength to send the Campione airborne, rather than tear the flesh from his bones.

"Armell-sama are you okay?!" Godou rushed to help the Campione stand up. Jace once he'd reorientated himself took the hand the Kusanagi heir offered. The two hauled the human giant back onto his feet. Jace didn't thank Godou, too hyper focused on the still dangerous god.

"You seem to finally have woken up Godling. I was beginning to wonder if you ever would. I must say I'm impressed though. Few have ever managed to wound the King of the Ancestral Line." Melqart's genuine praise surprised the Campione. Jace had thought the god's ego far too large for such a thing.

"Thanks. Now. I take it you want to keep fighting. So, what trick you got up your sleeve?" Jace took up a fighting stance as he spoke. If Melqart was still that egotistical then the King of the Ancestral Line was far from done. Jace pondered on what form of attack Melqart would use next. Jace didn't have to wait long.

What Melqart did next was not an attack. It was of a completely different nature.

Melqart brought down the rain.

Jace had witnessed Verethragna heal from a distance. It had been surreal watching the god's wounds heal almost instantly. Now Jace was witnessing a similar feat occur with Melqart.

First healed was the god's broken right arm. Jace saw the arm slowly bend, back into place, as if the ligaments were being completely rejuvenated and the bone that had splinted was fully melded anew. Melqart pushed upward with his hands, raising his chest off the ground.

Next came Melqart's spine. The snapped vertebrae were fused back together, and the surrounding muscle conjoined. The god brought his legs underneath him, then pushed up.

The more the rain fell on Melqart the faster the god healed. Repairing all the damage done by Jace. Till Melqart stood upright and proud, completely unharmed despite the thrashing he'd received mere moments ago.

Jace was simultaneously impressed and upset. "Great. All that work for nothing. You gods are a pain in the bloody ass to kill." The Campione muttered to himself.

Melqart flexed his shoulders, relishing the feeling of being whole again.

The rain coming down whipped in the wind of the storm brewing overhead.

"You fight well as a man, but are you prepared to fight as a king? I held back to see what kind of warrior you were. Now show me. Show me the type of king Jace Armell is!"

The hair's on Jace neck stood on edge. The Campione's instincts warning him death was coming. Jace grabbed Godou, picking the smaller teen up. They evaded death by a hair's breath, a bolt of lighting falling where they'd been just prior. Jace didn't stop though, he kept going straight toward Erica. "Blandelli. Shield. Now!" Jace roared at the blond knight.

Erica at his point had been freed up. For unknown reasons the skeletons had stopped attacking and fell apart into oily shadows. Erica now able to redirect her attention, saw the incoming Campione. She hastily transmuted Cuero de Leone, shaping the legendary weapon into its shield form. Just as she prepared to raise the shield in defense Jace commanded otherwise.

"Throw it, now!" The Campione held out the arm not holding Godou, barely outpacing another bolt of lightning. Erica hesitated for a moment. Cuere de Leone was her weapon, one not easily granted to another. She didn't throw it right away.

Jace seeing this gave her more motivation. "Blandelli!" The Campione's severe tone jolted Erica out of her indecision. She heaved the shield. Time slowed down for the Campione. The shield flew through the air, lighter than any metal, yet with the momentum of shield with a mass far greater. Jace reached out for it.

A flash of light lit up the cloudy sky.

Jace's fingers grasped the shield's handle.

A bolt of divine power came crashing down.

….

Jace raised the shield high.

The lightning blistered across the face of the shield.

Jace held steady, despite the immense energy behind the bolt. Jace roared, pouring his mana into the shield on instinct. The lightning passed. Jace breathed out, releasing a huge breath.

"Bloody hell, that was close." The Campione muttered.

"H-hai." Godou acknowledged shakily.

Jace peered at Erica, noting the blond's expression. It came across as, relief? Jace was slightly angry, having nearly died to the blond knight's indecisiveness. "A little later next time blondie. Just a little later." The Campione criticized.

Erica scowled; she never did appreciate being criticized. Just as she was about to retort Jace dropped Godou and faced the Divine King.

"Hiding behind your servants again whelp? Where is the fire you displayed earlier against the Warlord? Surely you can bring it out again." Melqart taunted.

Jace didn't let the taunt get to him. He couldn't use [Archaic Flame] even if it put him at a disadvantage. Besides if Melqart was trying to goad him into using it, it just meant the god was ready to counter it. "Says the fossil who was hiding behind a wall of bones and a lizard. Thought you were too scared to show your face." Jace threw an insult right back. Melqart was more visibly enraged than Jace had been.

Erica walked up to Jace standing on his left side, while Godou was on his right.

"Lord Armell, you are facing down a thunderstorm. Melqart won't allow you close enough to fight in hand-to-hand combat. If you have any way forward, now is the time to use it." Erica helpfully stated.

"I know Blandelli. I think I have one more option." Jace replied.

Erica briefly looked at Jace, then returned her gaze to Melqart. The Divine King had yet to move. Erica held out her hand beckoning for the return of her weapon. "Then return Cuere de Leone, I will buy you time while you enact your plan." Erica stated without hesitation. She was in this deep, and Jace Armell had yet to fail. She decided to place some trust in the King.

Jace handed over Cuere de Leone, Erica grasping the shield resolutely.

Godou didn't have an idea of what to do, but he wanted to help. "Armell-sama, is there anything I can do?"

Jace didn't look away from Melqart, when he answered. "Yeah. Watch my back, in case the skeletons or dragon comes back. Last thing I need is to be blindsided."

Godou nodded, with determination.

The Campione imagined the icon of Verethragna. The inverted pyramid and wheel came to the forefront of Jace's mind. He saw the [Bull] at the top. Not what he needed though. Jace focused in on the Authority that was beckoning to him.

"Both eloquent and powerful, I am the sword of wisdom, that which tears foes apart."

The wheel spun, tuning to the [Warrior].

"I am the strongest, for I am the one holding all victory in my hands."

The icon of the [Warrior] overlaid the ground beneath Jace. The golden handle of a sword manifested from the ground. It pushed upward without resistance, revealing a beautiful golden sword. Jace clasped the handle.

Melqart understood well the power that was being manifested. "Cursed Gold."

"I shall smash through all enemies in my way!"

Jace cried, ripping the sword from the sheath of the ground. It came obediently, raised high in the air for all to see. Godou was awe-struck to see the [Golden Sword] up close, its majestic sheen a marvel. Even Erica was impressed by the godly sword.

Jace swung the curved blade pointing it to the fore.

"For this is the essence of strength, that which denotes uncontestable victory."

Then a flash of light enveloped the humans, Campione, and Heretic God.

()

It was a world of golden swords. They sprouted from the golden ground, the golden rocks. They even hung in the incandescent sky. But they were swords, that was an uncontestable fact.

"Where are we?" Godou uttered, eyes wide as he drunk in his new surroundings.

"The World of Victory. A separate space created by the [Golden Sword], overlapping the earth. Don't ask how I know, I just do." Jace answered, his own eyes focused like lasers on Melqart.

Erica looked on, seeing that the World of Victory seemed to stretch on for eternity. She knew it likely didn't, that there was a territorial limit to the Authority. But that didn't retract from the awe-inspiring splendor of the Authority. "Lord Armell, is this what I think it is?" The blond softly asked.

"Verethragna's avatar of God-slaying. I don't know why it manifested like this but… I know how it works. I just need to sharpen the blade and let the Authority do the work." Jace stated, solemnly.

"Sharpen the blade?" Erica and Godou asked in unison.

"Yeah. Just watch and see." Jace responded.

Melqart by this point had waited long enough. The god had decided it was finally the appropriate time to act.

"I see you usurped the Warlord's most troublesome aspect. Don't think it will be enough to defeat me, the King of the Ancestral Line. Now show me the depth of this Authority God-slayer."

The Divine King raised his good left arm to the sky, then swung it down.

A light and sound of thunder punctured the sky above, then came the heavenly wrath.

Jace was ready though.

"Melqart is the principal deity of the city of Tyre, where he enjoyed worship. It was from the city that the worship of Melqart became widespread."

Jace swung the [Golden Sword, in response a single golden sword jettisoned from its place in the sky to intercept the lightning. The mystical energy met the divine sword and the two exploded in midair.

"Melqart was known as the Tyrian Heracles, owing to his great strength. This strength was also identified to the other great hero of the Near East, the hero god Verethragna. For Melqart was a hero, a god who slew the evil dragon Yam and saved the people."

A dozen blades launched themselves from the sky, aimed straight at Melqart.

"Don't be presumptuous whelp! Melqart took the throne by force of arms. I shall not be cast down from the heavens." The Divine King clenched his fist as if crushing an insect. A whirlwind kicked up, blowing straight past Melqart, intercepting the golden swords. The swords attempted to penetrate the wind wall. But could not, slowly the wind began pushing them back. Melqart, seeing the success of his gale, pumped more power into the Authority, driving the swords back faster.

"Melqart is—" Jace began to speak but stopped cold. He attempted to feed more knowledge into the [Golden Sword] but he couldn't.

Jace needed knowledge to empower the [Golden Sword] to sever another Authority. But he didn't know anymore, at least none that he could remember. He needed to think. He knew the [Golden Sword] could work, it just needed knowledge to know its opponent. He just needed to find the knowledge. Wait, Erica had been the one to inform him of Melqart in the first place. If she… that, was it!

"Blandelli, I need you to teach me about Melqart. Cast magic on me, like Lucretia."

Erica balked. Kiss the Seventh Campione? "What, why?!"

Jace shook his head in frustration, leave it to blondie to make this difficult. "I need knowledge of a god to form a sword to sever their divinity. I don't know enough about Melqart to do that. But you do. So, teach me."

Erica still hesitated.

When Jace saw this he was pissed, he didn't have time to argue with the proud blond. So, he thought over what he knew of Erica Blandelli. Then he found the answer. What he said next was meant to hit the root of Erica Blandelli. "Blandelli we are going to die! All the people you want to save are going to die! Now are you a knight or not?!"

Erica's eyes widened, stunned. She closed her eyes, and when they opened again, they were full of fire. She marched in front of Jace, drawing his attention off the approaching wind of death.

Erica stared Jace straight in the eye. "I am a Great Knight of the Copper-Black-Cross never doubt that. Now bend down."

Jace wanted to sag in relief, finally the blond knight was talking reason. The Campione bent down, Erica angling her head upward. She grasped Jace's face in both hands.

Just before they made contact Erica said, "Be victorious." Erica drew their faces together.

At first Jace felt the sweet softness of Erica's lips, then he felt the liquid warmth of mana. The knowledge he'd been seeking came into his mind. He knew. He knew Melqart. He knew how to win.

Jace parted from Erica, twirling the [Golden Sword] in hand. He could see the path to victory.

"But Melqart was never known to slay the evil dragon, Yam. Such a feat was a triumph of the god Baal Hadad. How then could two separate deities accomplish the same feat. The answer lies in myth. Both Melqart and Baal Hadad were associated with kingship and the cycle of life and death. To the Phoenicians Melqart was the principal deity of their pantheon. In later Mesopotamian myths Baal Hadad ascended the throne by striking down the dragon king Yam. Both were known for heroics, both were known for their great strength, both known as kings."

A new batch of swords joined the ones pushing against Melqart's gale. This time though the sword pushed back the whirlwind. It would be an acceptable misconception to imagine the swords and gale as purely physical constructs. They were not, they were also divine energies. As such it would be more appropriate to view them as opposing forces. As such, they were clashing on a level of conceptual forces. The storm Melqart had conjured was attempting to force its way past the swords. While the swords were attempting to sever the very concept of the storm itself. As such when Jace fed knowledge of Melqart into the [Golden Sword] it sharpened the swords, allowing them to severe the storm more easily.

Jace kept speaking sharpening the blades. A sword slipped through the wind. Then another.

"It was this close association that led to the blending of the myths, granting Melqart status as a god of [Storm]. Therefore, Melqart and Baal Hadad are not two separate gods, but one in the same. Moreso Melqart became the epicenter for many gods related to storms, including Baal Hammon. Baal Hammon was a god of healing, known for bringing down life giving rains of spring. Your healing abilities are reflected in your aspect as a god of fertility and the cycle of life and death. But the center of your myth is that of a sky god, who controls the storm. This is how you command the storm!

Jace brought his sword up high in his right hand, the blade transforming as he did so. It became double edged, in the shape of an old Mesopotamian sword. Inscribed on the side of the blade was a language only Jace and Melqart could read. It said "Baal: the Cloud Rider".

"I sever this Authority!" Jace brought the sword crashing down.

Golden swords erupted from the ground in front of Jace, they plunged through the wind, severing the storm. On the swords raced, aimed straight at Melqart.

The golden swords now their own storm, punctured Melqart. The golden storm didn't cease, penetrating Melqart till the god was unseen due to the sheer mass of swords.

A light flashed once more. Then it was over.

()

Just when Godou thought he was getting the hang of the whole Heretic Gods and Campione thing, Jace Armell would casually throw a brick at the notion. A literal world of golden swords. A thundering storm of weaponry that sliced through a tornado. Just how fantastical could this world of magic get?

"Did… did that do it?" Godou asked quietly, still a little in awe of what he'd just witnessed.

"I believe it did. Mr. Kusanagi." Erica stated, more firmly in tune with reality.

They both turned to Jace, seeing a thoughtful expression on his face rather than a grin of victory.

"Is something wrong?" Erica asked, seeing the Campione's still frame.

Jace blinked slowly. When he spoke, it carried an edge. "Blandelli, when a Campione kills a Heretic God, they gain an Authority right?

Erica blushed at the mention of her name, for an unknown reason. But she answered clearly. "Yes, that is the known process. Why do you ask?"

"Because I don't think I've gained an Authority yet." Jace tensed, his eyes narrowed.

Jace's instincts roiled, warning danger. Had he'd been relaxed he might not have responded in time. The Campione dropped to the ground faster than gravity, just as an object was about to smash into his head. It just missed the top of his head. The object soared between Erica and Godou, cannonballing into the ground. The impact sent earth flying, the energy no different than an artillery strike.

"Lord Armell/Armell-sama!" The two standing teens shouted as the debris washed over them.

Their alarm was unnecessary though. Jace was fine, he'd just felt the chill of death a little closer than he liked. Looking back toward the crater the teens saw [Ayamari] in the middle of the new depression.

"Hah, even in apparent victory you maintain wariness worthy of a beast. Melqart was a fool to underestimate you so." The voice was Melqart's but much more human.

The god was in terrible shape. Wounds covered his body, ichor flowing freely from those wounds. Had Melqart been human, it would have been a toss up whether he died from blood loss or shock as the damage was recorded by his brain. His divinity had preserved his life, but at a cost. The god who had stood atop the heavens had been forced from grace.

"Still alive, damn you gods are bloody tough son of bitches." Jace commented as he rose, [Golden Sword] still in hand. Godou went to help him rise but Jace waived him off. He didn't want the Japanese teen getting in the way. "Guess that's why your gods though."

Erica got in front of Jace, prepared to help him fight. Jace pulled her behind him. "No, this it between me and him now." He ordered the blond knight to stay back. Erica began to argue. The god just watched… watched and laughed.

The three teens stared at Melqart. It was the first time the god had displayed any emotion besides arrogance or anger. It was a bittersweet sound.

"To think the workings of ants brought down a God. If only the blight of [Heresy] hadn't afflicted me, I would likely be the one standing victorious." Melqart stopped laughing and shook his head.

Jace tilted his head to the side, in confusion. "Are you giving up? Surprising, didn't seem like the type." Jace stated, confused by the mention of [Heresy].

Melqart humphed as if offended. "It is not giving up warrior. I have merely exhausted all the options before me. Melqart is in no condition to continue to battle, I lack the strength to hold this form for much longer. Given time I could return to fighting condition, but I know you will not grant this."

What Jace said shocked everyone present. "Actually, I might be willing to let you live. Provided you answer some questions."

"Lord Armell! You can't be serious! He'll kill who knows how many innocents if he's set free." Erica protested. The blond knight argued.

Melqart affirmed the blond knight's statement. "Your servant is a defiant one. But she is correct. I would seek to punish the humans for their transgressions against the water ways and sea." Melqart's voice rose to a stern character as if rebuking "More so, Melqart will not stand to be known as a coward who begged for his life. I would rather die than to live so ingloriously."

Godou chose this moment to speak up. "Armell-sama you… have to kill Melqart-kami. If he's going to hurt so many people we need to stop him here." The request surprised Jace as much as it did Godou himself. The Kusanagi heir never anticipated wanting someone to die. It made him uneasy, but at the same time his morals was saying it was the only right thing to do. The irony wasn't lost on Godou.

Jace sighed, this had been an opportunity, but if it wasn't meant to be then it wasn't meant to be. "Too bad. Alright lets, get this over with." The Campoine walked toward Melqart, businesslike. Jace asked simply "Just want me to stab you in the heart?"

Melqart snorted. "A strange time to care for your enemy's preferences warrior. That will suffice though, simply hurry before Melqart dies of boredom instead."

Jace smiled slightly at the retort, it seems he and Melqart weren't so different after all. Jace raised the [Golden Sword] so it was at chest height. Then he plunged it forward.

Melqart never made so much as a sound of pain.

The Heretic God began to dissolve, his body slowly blowing away in the breeze.

Before he faded completely Melqart offered some last words. "Remember warrior Heretic Gods are your foes. Smash all who would challenge you, especially that Warlord. Till at last Melqart has descended and can take just vengeance on you. Now take this Authority and use it well."

Melqart faded away, returned to the Domain of Immortality.

A moment later, a spectral icon of a thunderstorm appeared in front of Jace. The stella plunged itself into his chest, insistently pushing inward. Once it was done Jace could feel the power within him grow and knew a new Authority had been acquired.

"Well done Lord Armell. You have defeated your fourth Heretic God. And in the span of a week. You've broken a record set by the eldest Campione. Congratulations." Erica spoke genuinely praising the Seventh Campione.

Jace looked back, then he grinned. "Really. Nice." He clenched his fist in victory.

Godou sagged in relief. He was just glad it was over. A thought occurred to Godou. Weren't there supposed to be four of them? "Hey. Where's Cappozi-san?"

Erica suddenly blinked in surprise. She looked around for the baron but could not find him.

Jace though knew where the baron was at. "Smell it on the wind, that sick burning odor."

Erica and Godou looked hesitant but attempted to smell. They wished they hadn't. It was trace but a horrific odor.

"Gah what is that?" The Kusanagi heir exclaimed.

"The smell of charred flesh. Human specifically." Jace helpfully supplied.

Erica's expression turned sour. She understood. "Oh. I see."

Godou took a second longer, but he got it too. "Oh, man. That's…"

"At least it was quick." Jace stated.

Godou looked like he was going to be sick. "Wait how do you know that smell Armell-sama?" The Kusanagi heir asked.

Jace frowned, wondering if he should divulge that information. Finally, he said "In Africa there was a village, I stayed the night there after becoming a Campione. When I woke up it was to the sound of shrieks of terror. I saw monsters straight out of a videogame attacking the villagers, servants of what at that time I didn't know was a Heretic God. They ran me to the center of the village where the god was waiting. It droned on about how it was going to kill me as vengeance for past grievances. When we finally got down to the fight, well, the smack talk lasted longer."

Jace paused.

"What do you mean? How was it short?" Godou curiously asked, during the pause.

Jace rumbled. "Remember this was just after I became a Campione, I didn't know anything yet. I didn't know about [Archaic Flame]. Not till after."

Erica and Godou's expressions twisted in alarm as they got what Jace was hinting at.

"You mean you…" Erica trailed off.

"Yeah. I roasted the whole place no different than when I fought Verethragna." Jace confirmed.

Godou finally it seems had enough. He threw up. Vomiting from the stress and flux of emotions. The Japanese teen didn't stop until he'd cleared out his stomach.

Erica didn't have such a dramatic reaction. Instead, her expression turned melancholic. "Ah, it's not the first time a Campione's power has inadvertently activated and ended in civilian casualties. It's been well documented that the eruption of Vesuvius was caused by a newborn Campione."

"Campione really are dangerous, eh. That's what happened. Now you know." Jace finished. The Campione expected revulsion from Erica and Godou. That's what should have happened. Both had different reactions.

"I see. In the stead of the villagers, I will thank you Lord Armell." Erica.

"What?" Jace questioned, unsure of what he'd just heard.

Erica sighed. "I won't pretend this was a good thing. But you inadvertently saved those villagers from a painful death of being eaten alive. Driving off the Heretic God also saved who knows how many others. You did a service intentionally or not."

Godou having finally recovered from his vomiting, spoke up. "What happened was horrible. But it's not your fault Armell-sama. It's that Heretic God's, if they hadn't attacked you, no one would have died in the first place. It's not your fault."

Jace blinked at the declarations. That had not been what he'd been expecting. He'd only told them because Jace wasn't ashamed of it or anything. He had no conflictions over it, so it wasn't a deal. That said if they hadn't asked, Jace wouldn't have said anything.

Jace snorted, not quite in derision. "You two are far too forgiving. But I'm not going to tell you what to think." The Campione turned on his heel, heading back toward where hopefully the boat was still at.

Godou called out, "Wait, shouldn't we bury the body."

Jace looked over this shoulder before calling out, "Isn't anything to bury Kusanagi." Jace kept his stride. He didn't care about the ambitious baron enough to hold a funeral. That would be up to the baron's loved ones.

Erica and Godou shared a look. Thinking well, the Campione wasn't wrong. Erica wasn't as cold hearted, but she did have any particular interest in hosting a funeral either. Godou didn't even know which charred spot was Cappozi anymore.

So, the two headed after Jace.

() The following day

After defeating Melqart, the trio returned to Cappozi's mansion. There was no formal invitation, but the staff didn't forbid them from entering. Likely due to Jace's sheer presence, after all who denies a King.

All three slept the day remainder of the day and night away.

After getting ahold of the promised rewards, Jace and company head to the airport. Godou had a flight to catch.

"Well, this seems to be where we part ways gentlemen. It has been an experience these past few days." Erica was wearing a new red dress, garnering stares from all the other men present.

Godou was wearing his last set of casual pants and white long sleeve shirt. He looked unkept but was good looking enough to catch a few girls' eyes.

Jace was still wearing the dark red shirt and black combat pants combo he'd gotten from Cappozi. Combined with his combat boots Jace was drawing the most stares. Or because he was towering a good foot over the tallest patrons of the facility.

"Yeah, it's been a wild ride." Godou commented.

"That's an understatement. Most people don't' nearly die three days in a row." Jace quipped.

Godou sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. Erica smirked slightly.

Erica sobered up, snapping her fingers, drawing the attention of Jace and Godou. "Lord Armell, you never said where you intend to go from here. If I may, where do you plan on heading?"

Jace lazily raised an eyebrow. "What, want to keep tabs on me Blandelli? I guess I'll head back to Russia."

Now that their lives weren't in danger, Erica seemed chagrined at the use of her nickname. "Erica." She said.

"What?" Jace inquired.

"I said it's Erica. My name. After all we've been through it feels wrong for you to call me by my last name." The blond stated with confidence.

Jace shrugged, answering. "Okay. Erica."

Erica looked away blushing. "After all, you're the first man I've kissed."

Jace just blinked, then said. "Huh. Not bad then for a first kiss."

Erica couldn't decide if she was pleased by the compliment or insulted by the lackluster review. Rather than get angry the blond just sighed saying, "What an insufferable man."

Jace rolled his eyes.

Godou chuckled at the byplay. Once he stopped, he stretched his back out. "Ah, nothing like getting back home. Oh, Armell-sama what is home like for you?"

Jace snorted. "Home? Nothing but an empty room of whatever place I'm staying at."

Godou looked askance. "What? What about your family?"

Jace's lips turned downward in a frown. The mention of family was an unpleasant topic for him. "Don't have one." He calmly uttered.

Neither Erica nor Godou thought it wise to bring up the topic. So, they didn't.

Godou though had a thought run through his head. It didn't seem right for the man to return to an empty room. Not after everything he did to save people. Godou thought Jace deserved better than that. Then maybe he could…

"Armell-sama why don't you come with me?"

Jace raised an eyebrow. "You want me to go to Japan. Why Kusanagi?" Jace asked with disbelief.

Godou found a sudden burst of courage, this was the right thing to do, he just knew it. "Because it doesn't seem right for you to be all alone like that. At least stay a few days with me in Japan, you'll like it there I promise."

Jace thought it over. It wasn't like he had anything in particular to get back to. Godou wasn't the worst company. The Japanese teen might be naïve, but he was honest, which was refreshing compared to what Jace was used to. Plus, he' get to try authentic Japanese cuisine. The Campione's mouth was already watering. In the end Jace decided a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun wasn't a horrible idea. A temporary detour wouldn't be that bad, surely. If it turned out to be, he'd just leave.

Jace smirked. "Alright you got yourself a deal. Godou."

Godou blushed at the informal use of his personal name. Doing such a thing was sign of familiarity to the Japanese. Well, they had placed their lives in each other's hands hadn't they. What was the problem of using first names. "Yosh. Jace-san."

Jace stuck out his hand in a handshake. Godou reciprocated.

Erica filed the information away. She would have to write a report after this for her organization. She dreaded the mountain of paperwork she'd have to write.

() In a secluded cave in Italy.

Impossible.

The cursed God-slayer had done the impossible. He'd slain two deities who should have been undefeatable.

A taloned hand reached out grasping a nearby crow by the head. The hand squeezed. The poor crow erupted into a mass of feathers, which dissipated after a few moments.

A bestial howl tore through the cavern. The god was beyond infuriated. How could a newborn God-slayer defeat so many gods in such a short time. It should have been impossible even for those cursed existences.

The god clenched at his arms, before grimacing in pain. A mass of charcoal black skin flaked off from where the talons had scraped. Curse that God-slayer. Curse him for rendering a proud god to such a degraded state.

The god was a mess a walking mass of fourth degree burns. A human would have died a long time ago. As it was only the god's Authority [Green Antlers] had allowed him to escape. Even still the fire from that cursed God-slayer had burned him so badly he needed [Summerland] to begin recovering.

The god known as Cernunnos wasn't about to let this go. No. The god of the hunt, the wheel, and trinity wasn't about to let this transgression go.

The hunt was only beginning.

()

Authority Highlight

Melqart

[Underworld's Legion]: Allows for resurrection of the dead. Undead servants may be resurrected as humanoid skeletons. Number is capable of reaching the hundreds. Individual skeletons lack enhanced offensive or defensive abilities compared to humans. Their touch has a negative reaction to the living, draining away life force.

[Yagarish]: The chaser, divine wooden club covered in wind.

[Ayyamarri]: The driver, divine wooden club covered in lightning.

[Tyrrhenian Heracles]: Grants superhuman strength comparable to Heracles, the Greek demigod.

[Baal Hadad]: Aspect of Melqart that grants control over the sea and storms.

[Baal Hammon]: Grants Melqart the ability to bring down lifesaving showers of rain.

[Spawn of Yam]: Allows Melqart to summon dragons under his control. A facet of Baal Hadad's legend of defeating Yam the dragon king, granting control over lesser dragons.

[Lion Skin of Heroes]: A lion skin cloth that imparts divine protection against physical attacks. A remnant of heroic epics where a hero gains divine favor for slaying dangerous beasts. Can shift its form to a leather breastplate.

Jace Armell

[Boar]: Summons Verethragna's incarnation of the [Boar]. An exceptionally hardy Divine Beast owing to it's a incarnation of Verethragna rather than a Divine Servant. If defeated must wait a period of (?) before it can be summoned again. ?

[Bull]: Grants strength great enough to overcome an opponent. Target may be in the form of a stronger enemy or large incoming mass. Will not activate against a force that can be stopped by normal might. ?

[Warrior/Golden Sword]: Authority that enables the severing of divinity (Authorities). Only may be activated against divine opponents. Sharpens itself by incorporating knowledge of a deity, to slice apart their myths at the origin point. Manifests as a separate space that overlaps reality. ?

[Youth]: Imparts a charismatic effect, bolstering the courage of nearby allies. Jace must speak words of encouragement to allies for the effect to take place. ?

Language Highlight

Japanese

Yosh: Loosely can be interpreted as excitement at something, or agreement.

Sumani: A way to express regret and to apologize.