Inner Voice: All Heroines Hear My Inner Voice Chapter 968 968: Filvis' new body and the appearance of six Demi-Spirits
Previously on Inner Voice: All Heroines Hear My Inner Voice...
Bringing the deceased back to life was not a novel experience for Eiji; he had accomplished this feat numerous times. However, altering a person's race and initiating a revolutionary transformation was a different matter entirely.
He had achieved such feats before, courtesy of the Evolution Cube acquired from the system in earlier times.
Memories surfaced of Gabriel, Grayfia, and several of his other consorts, their evolved racial forms.
Yet, his current method represented a significant departure. Within Gantz, Eiji integrated the Evolution Cube with its advanced technology. The Mechanical Emperor's inherent abilities provided him with the necessary comprehension to execute this integration.
Were it not for his aversion to the tedious nature of becoming a Mechanic, akin to Han Xiao or the Mechanic Emperor, Eiji himself possessed the capability to engineer technology comparable to, or even surpassing, Gantz.
Regrettably, his preference lay in pursuing mastery as both a warrior and a mage simultaneously.
[Modifications detected...]
[The 'Evolution' function has been successfully integrated! I can now facilitate the racial evolution of participants. Would you like to evolve Filvis into a High Elf? (>....<)]
"As expected of me," Eiji lauded himself, prompting an eye-roll from the System.
Shortly thereafter, in a secluded location within Knossos, Filvis's form became enveloped in a resplendent white luminescence. She experienced profound bodily alterations; her heart, previously replaced by the Magic Stone, was annihilated, and a new heart began to regenerate within her. Furthermore, the organs within her monstrous form underwent a metamorphosis, transforming into entirely new structures.
"This sensation...!"
Filvis became aware of the changes coursing through her body. She felt no pain whatsoever; instead, a familiar sensation, reminiscent of her elven origins, surged back within her.
Overwhelmed with emotion, she felt tears welling up.
The connection binding her to Ein was severed, liberating her from her former identity.
However, the transformations did not cease there—her bodily changes continued! She felt her inherent power and magical aptitude amplify manifold.
She had not merely returned to her elven form but had ascended to that of a High Elf, her bloodline rivaling that of royal nobles like Riveria! The effulgent glow surrounding Filvis dissipated, revealing her long black hair now transformed into shimmering silver, her irises a striking purple, and her skin possessing an exquisite softness.
Her already considerable beauty was further enhanced, eliciting a low whistle from Eiji. Of course, Filvis remained unaware of her altered appearance without a reflective surface, but the profound sensations she experienced were enough to move her to kneel, her hands clasped in an attitude of prayer.
"Thank you! Thank you, Eiji-sama!" With eyes glistening, she gazed toward the ceiling, as if Eiji himself were there. Her gratitude was immense, mirroring the profound positive feelings that had blossomed into love and near-blind devotion, much like when Dionysus had resurrected her as a monster.
For Eiji's sake, she would undertake any task.
Were he to command her to eliminate every member of Evilus, Creature, and Dionysus, she would do so without a moment's hesitation.
Especially now that her power had surged to Level 7. Many in Orario would undoubtedly be astonished that Filvis's level now rivaled Ottar's.
Yet, only a select few were privy to the true extent of her capabilities.
Previously, she had maintained a humble profile, known only as a Level 3 due to the missions assigned by Dionysus. Even before her time with Creature, prior to employing her cloning magic, her original self had already attained Level 7.
Nevertheless, her current might was demonstrably superior to her previous state as a Level 7 Creature.
[As per our agreement, you shall now serve as my assistant, Filvis.]
Perusing the text displayed on her watch, Filvis tenderly wiped away her tears, her countenance adopting an expression akin to that of a fervent devotee.
"Yes! Eiji-sama, what are your commands? Whatever you desire, I shall fulfill for you."
"She is quite astute," Eiji mused internally.
An idea had already taken root in his mind the moment he resolved to aid Filvis, and he sought confirmation before proceeding.
[Before we continue, please elucidate the intricacies of Dionysus's plan and the steps he has undertaken to realize it.]
"As you command, Eiji-sama. Dionysus also operates under the guise of Enyo. The current machinations of Evilus and the members of Creature are his direct orchestrations. For the past six years, he has meticulously devised a complex scheme to bring about Orario's downfall, thereby triggering an apocalypse. His ultimate aim is to incite widespread madness and absolute suffering, which he deems the pinnacle of an 'Orgia' spectacle..."
Filvis no longer addressed Dionysus with any semblance of respect; indeed, her voice dripped with disdain as she uttered his name.
She proceeded to divulge the granular details of Dionysus's scheme to Eiji. For instance, in his relentless pursuit of his malevolent objective, he had endeavored to cultivate the Jewel Fetus—an embryonic monster born from a Corrupted Spirit, destined to mature into a Demi-Spirit.
Dionysus intended to leverage this Demi-Spirit as a colossal reactor for magical destruction, thereby initiating the prophesied apocalypse within Orario.
The primary role of the Demi-Spirits was to function as colossal magical power sources. Dionysus positioned six Demi-Spirits at specific points, known as ritual pillars, within Knossos. Additionally, he stored six fetuses of other Demi-Spirits as a reserve measure in the dungeon. The aggregated magical might from these six entities was directly channeled to invigorate the ancient dragon, Nidhogg, who was under the influence of a Corrupted Spirit. Without the immense influx of magic supplied by the Demi-Spirits, Nidhogg would lack the necessary destructive force to obliterate the entirety of Orario's geological structure and the Dungeon itself.
As the dungeon's floors were progressively dismantled, the countless monsters inhabiting them would surge to the surface, inevitably inciting widespread panic.
Eiji was already privy to a significant portion of this information, having learned it from Rasiel. His sole objective was to ascertain the extent to which these events diverged from the original narrative he knew.
To his dismay, the reality had unfolded in a manner far more dire than anticipated.
[I must concede that... Dionysus is truly a master manipulator, a villain lurking in the shadows. His intricate plan to annihilate Orario and usher in the world's end has been years in the making, and he is now on the cusp of its culmination.]
[His intention is to harness the power of the six Demi-Spirits to unleash a spell capable of razing Orario, while simultaneously, the ancient Corrupted Spirit/Naga Niddhogg, absorbs the energy of the other six Tainted Spirits, transforming into a devastating super-bomb poised to detonate the dungeon.]
[These two catastrophic events are bound to occur in perfect unison.]
[The Demi-Spirits are merely expendable tools in this grand design. Upon completing their task of constructing a colossal magic circle to breach the 'Gate of Heaven'—a monumental pillar of destruction whose power rivals even Arcanum—they will be offered as sacrifices. Their potent energy must be absorbed into Niddhogg before their existence ceases.]
[The malevolent dragon possesses a limited capacity to contain such immense power. Once the absorption process is finalized, it will trigger an explosion of unimaginable scale.]
[At that critical juncture, every soul within Orario, including the high gods and goddesses, will perish. Every single one, with the sole exception of myself and my devoted women, naturally.]
Eiji's internal monologue, delivered this time with a chilling gravitas, sent shivers down the spines of the heroines residing in Orario.
Spare us the details about your exclusive survival and that of your women, Eiji.
They were all utterly speechless.
Is this predicament not of the utmost seriousness?
They absolutely could not permit Dionysus's nefarious scheme to reach fruition!
Every inhabitant of Orario faced annihilation!
Hestia, Hephaestus, Demeter, Shakti, Mikoto, and the other women of Danmachi who could perceive Eiji's inner voice were overwhelmed by a mounting sense of dread.
Asfi, who had just managed to destroy one Jewel Fetus, found herself momentarily frozen. Based on Eiji's revelation, every Jewel Fetus concealed within the Dungeon was, in reality, nothing more than a rudimentary backup power source!
Their destruction would ultimately prove futile in halting Dionysus's wicked objective. Six Demi-Spirits had already been manifested and were concealed within the confines of Knossos. Their true target lay within that very location.
"Damn it, we've been completely deceived by Dionysus. We must make haste to Knossos immediately!" Asfi uttered a curse directed at Dionysus, frantically initiating a search for Knossos's entrance amidst her growing panic.
Alas, the exact location remained elusive.
Eiji had merely provided the vague information that it was situated beneath Deadalus Street. She and her companions were currently positioned on the 24th floor of the dungeon.
Was there no alternative means of reaching their destination?
Even if she managed to arrive at Knossos, a profound uncertainty lingered regarding her own capabilities to confront and defeat either a single Demi-Spirit, let alone all six.
[From the knowledge I possess, the might of a single Demi-Spirit is comparable to a Level 7 entity, and the Corrupted Spirit/Niddhogg ranks as a Level 8.]
"....." Asfi's complexion turned ashen.
These formidable beings were far too powerful!
In their present company, considering Asfi herself was a Level 4, the handful of Level 3s and Level 2s within her group would serve as mere expendable sacrifices.
To overcome such adversaries, the most elite adventurers from the two Great Families, namely Loki Familia and Freya Familia, would undoubtedly be required.
Should she abandon her current course and ascend to the surface to relay this urgent intelligence to the Guild?
[However, there appears to be no necessity for such extreme alarm. Myself, along with the members of my Familia and the adventurers from several other allied families, should prove more than adequate to address and resolve this impending crisis.]
Eiji's voice resonated with an unshakeable confidence.
A flicker of relief washed over the women, and a significant number of them, including Asfi, found themselves inclined to trust his assertion.
Asfi recalled the participation of members from the Seiya Familia in the Gantz game. Considering the formidable strength each of them possessed... she began to suspect that her initial panic might have been somewhat excessive.
Concurrently.
On the 59th floor.
A considerable contingent of Loki Familia members was also engaged within the dungeon. Ais, Lefiya, and Riveria, who had recently been inducted as dual members of the Seiya Familia, were present among them.
They continued their ongoing dungeon expedition while simultaneously evaluating the efficacy of Eiji's Falna System. The results procured were so astonishing that Fin, Gareth, Bete, and the rest of their companions found themselves overcome with envy towards the three women.
In stark contrast to their own standard progression, these fortunate individuals could update their status automatically and accrue Excelia/Exp at an accelerated rate.
Put simply, their ability to grow stronger within the dungeon environment was occurring in real-time.
Ais experienced a sense of exhilaration as she observed the tangible augmentation of her own power, a clarity previously unattainable. However, much like Riveria and Lefiya, the pronouncements Eiji had made through his inner voice not long prior had cast a shadow of anxiety over them.
"Waaah! Why are only the three of you permitted dual membership in the Seiya Familia? I desire it as well! The Falna System is unequivocally superior to the conventional Falna!"
"I have the same question... Why were only you three invited when you visited Seiya Familia's residence previously?"
Tiona voiced her question, her gaze fixed on the three women before her with undeniable envy.
Tione clasped her hands beneath her ample bosom, a distinct frown marring her features.
Fin, Gareth, and the other male members who had been resting fell silent. What about us? Why were we excluded? Was it simply because we are men?
"Tiona, Tione, now is not the time. We are facing a serious problem!" Riveria declared, her expression grave.
The two amazons ceased their complaints, though the desire to protest remained. They dared not press the issue, sensing Riveria's uncharacteristically serious demeanor.
Finn, looking bewildered, inquired, "A problem? What kind of problem, Riveria?"
"The problem is..." Riveria hesitated, uncertain if she could reveal the contents of Eiji's inner monologue to Finn and the others. She had never shared such information before. However, a sudden idea struck her, and she decided to proceed, "The Falna system provides us with the latest updates from Eiji-sama and his familia. Through Eiji-sama, I've received intel indicating that everyone in Orario, including ourselves, is in grave danger! A god named Dionysus harbors a malevolent scheme; he intends to utilize six Demi-Spirits and a Corrupted Spirit—"
Upon hearing Riveria's exposition, which meticulously relayed the information Eiji had conveyed internally without explicitly stating the source, the Loki Familia members present were left utterly dumbfounded.
Ais and Lefiya, naturally, were the exceptions, as they were already privy to everything Riveria had just announced.
"What!? If this is true..." Gareth abruptly rose from his seat, his gaze seeking out his captain. "Finn, what course of action should we take? We cannot simply stand idly by, can we?"
"You are correct; this predicament affects everyone residing in Orario. We must offer our assistance to Seiya Familia and the others, but..." Finn's eyes flickered towards the green-haired elf before him. "Riveria, is there any known method to access Knossos from within the dungeon?"
"I apologize, but I have no knowledge of such a route," Riveria admitted with a wry smile.
Eiji had not specified the precise location of Knossos's entrance, merely indicating that it lay beneath Daedalus Street.
"Um... why don't we simply ask Eiji-sama? Riveria-san, do you recall the function of the familia chat group?"
Lefiya's suggestion caused Riveria's eyes to widen in surprise.
She had completely overlooked that detail and felt a slight embarrassment that her junior had remembered it before her.
Yet, before Riveria could act on Lefiya's reminder, their surroundings abruptly transformed into a vast, frozen expanse. They found themselves atop a hill, overlooking a densely packed multitude of monsters below. Variants of the man-eating flower, Viola, the formidable Ice Storm Bear from the 60th Floor, the elusive Wolf of the Wilderness, and the swift Lightning Freezing Bird—all were embroiled in a savage conflict.
The man-eating flowers savagely targeted the other monsters, dispatching those from the 60th Floor and consuming their magic stones. The monsters, unwilling to be mere prey, retaliated, engaging in a fierce, self-destructive battle.
The air was thick with the cacophony of various monster roars.
If this were the extent of the disturbance, it would not have been enough to faze the veteran adventurers of Loki Familia.
What truly sent shivers down their spines was the sight of twisted, grotesque, green-hued flesh stretching out before them.
To encapsulate its appearance in a single phrase: it was an colossal pillar of green flesh!
Stretching across the icy plain ahead, six colossal pillars were scattered at vast intervals, some tens of kilometers apart. These pillars were firmly anchored to the ground and ceiling, reminiscent of the Tower of Babel towering over the Surface. However, these were constructed from tainted green flesh, shimmering with an unholy luminescence and radiating a sinister aura.
The verdant flesh that encased them writhed incessantly, riddled with parasitic, strange blossoms in hues of purple, red, and black.
Furthermore, a multitude of thick, tree-trunk-like tentacles erupted from their bodies, writhing in a horrifying manner.
Most disconcerting were the three female countenances that materialized at the base of each giant pillar. Their expressions were contorted, emanating an aura of dazzling insanity and profound evil.
Six pillars, resulting in eighteen distinct female faces!
Each represented a Demi-Spirit or a manifestation of a Corrupted Spirit!
An immediate wave of terror and revulsion washed over the Loki Familia members. Their faces turned ashen, and their vigilance heightened to its absolute peak.
"What in the world is happening!? Finn, Riveria!?" Bete exclaimed, though he consciously modulated his voice to avoid alerting the monsters to their presence.
However, the response came not from Finn or Riveria, but from a cold, feminine voice. "The question is, what are *you* all doing here? Stand aside."
Bete's expression soured with indignation. But as he and the others turned to face the speaker, they were met with a sight that left them stunned into silence.
How could they not be?
Behind them, a goddess-like woman with flowing white hair materialized. Clad in a gothic black dress and wielding a staff resembling a great halberd, the aura she exuded was potent enough to instil a shudder, its danger rivaling that of the surrounding monsters.
Though they regarded her with caution, Riveria spoke first, "Morgan-san, you are here as well? We have no understanding as to why we were suddenly transported to this location."
Aside from Riveria, only Ais and Lefiya recognized Morgan upon seeing her.
However, Finn and the remaining members of the Loki Familia were only familiar with her name. They recalled Morgan as a distinguished Level 8 member of the Seiya Familia!
"I see. My husband has indeed done something unnecessary. While he may desire your assistance for me, I alone am more than capable of eradicating all these monsters, including those Demi-Spirits."
Morgan cast a glance at the six massive, humanoid female figures suspended from the colossal pillars, subtly chiding her husband, Eiji. Yet, a faint curve of her lips betrayed her gladness at his concern for her.
A significant number of the men within the Loki Familia group found themselves captivated by Morgan's striking beauty. However, the mention of the monsters' identity brought a sobering realization.
"Demi-Spirits? Those creatures dangling from the pillars are Demi-Spirits!?"
"Monsters of Level 7!?"
"That signifies we are currently inside Knossos!?"
Several Loki Familia members exclaimed in unison.
Bete spat and glared at Morgan with evident irritation, "You intend to vanquish those abominations solo? Haughty woman, do you presume—"
*Bang!!*
Scarcely had he begun his taunt when his body was violently propelled sideways as if by a cannon blast, embedding him into the floor's wall. Situated on an incline, his immediate safety from the monsters was ensured. Nevertheless, Bete let out a groan, spewing a mouthful of blood and collapsing onto the ground, clutching his abdomen with an expression contorted in pain.
His visage was flushed with a mixture of shame, fury, and humiliation.
"Bete!!!"
Numerous other Loki Familia members rushed towards him without delay, attempting to aid him before the monsters could detect their presence.
As for the rest of the group? Many stared at Morgan with undisguised terror. They had not perceived her movements, but the tip of her staff, now elevated skyward, clearly indicated she was the one who had struck Bete!
Finn's thumb twitched incessantly, his gaze intensifying. Possessing the prowess of a Level 7 adventurer, he too had been utterly incapable of tracking Morgan's swift actions.
This realization struck him: she was immensely powerful! He doubted his own ability to defeat her in close-quarters combat, despite Morgan's apparent designation as a mage.
Naturally... Finn, Gareth, and the other members of the Loki Familia were not so foolish as to assign blame to Morgan for her actions. Bete had been the instigator, provoking the woman first.
"Please forgive Bete, Morgan-san. He often exhibits a lack of decorum toward those he encounters for the first time," Riveria offered a hasty apology on Bete's behalf.
She harbored concerns that her master might harbor resentment.
Observing Riveria's deferential demeanor, many amongst the Loki Familia members understood that provoking the white-haired woman was ill-advised!
They certainly had no desire to suffer Bete's fate.
Morgan let out a dismissive snort, "It matters not, I pay no heed to a mere cur."
You claim indifference, yet you struck Bete with such force that he nearly lost consciousness and now requires concern for his kidney function!
Several Loki Familia members harbored silent grievances but dared not voice them.
"Greetings, I am Finn, the Captain of the Loki Familia. We intend no disrespect, but... are you truly confident in engaging these monsters alone?" Finn inquired politely.
Morgan regarded him with an impassive expression, "You may handle the lesser monsters while I attend to the Demi-Spirits."
Given the polite approach and the fact that these reinforcements were purposefully dispatched by Eiji, she found no objection to a temporary alliance.
"Understood. The remaining monsters shall be our responsibility."