How Do We Go Back?

[Indeed I Do, Host]

"Since when?" Xin Ming was puzzled, if the system did in fact have a consciousness, since when did it have one? After all, it has been with Xin Ming for eons and has only taken the initiative to reveal it's existence now.

[I have always existed, host]

"Then why didn't you tell me that you did?"

[You never asked, host]

…

Xin Ming couldn't help but feel a tinge of embarrassment at the simplicity of the system's response. "Fair point," he muttered, conceding to the logic of the situation. After all, he had spent countless eons in the company of the system, yet he had never once bothered to inquire about its nature or capabilities.

"So what's the point of revealing yourself now?" Xin Ming asked, his curiosity piqued. He couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this revelation than met the eye.

[In your current situation, host, you are not bound by the rules that govern the designated world due to you breaking the limits. As such, I deemed it necessary to reveal my existence to you now, in order to provide you with the guidance and assistance you will need to get back]

"Go on then, how do we go back?"

[To forcibly open a dimensional rift, host, you will need a significant source of energy from the host world, in this case, mana. Unfortunately, as you do not possess mana yourself, the only viable option is to slay the demons, who hold the greatest reservoir of mana in this world, so I can absorb and use it]

Well it aligns with my original goal anyway, so I guess it's fine

"Show me who I have to eliminate"

[As you wish, host]

[Here is a list of the demons you must eliminate in order to obtain their mana]

A holographic display materialized before Xin Ming, showcasing a series of ominous silhouettes accompanied by detailed information about each demon.

[The first target is the Demon, Archduke of Shadows]

the system announced, highlighting a shadowy figure yet familiar somehow, wreathed in darkness.

[He is currently the closest demon near you, surrounded by his loyal minions and is a master of disguise. His mana is potent and dark, perfect for rift related abilities]

The system continued to list demons until finally ending with the demon king.

Xin Ming analyzed the holographic displays of demons presented by the system. Despite the multitude of menacing silhouettes, one in particular seemed to stir a sense of déjà vu within him.

"Archduke of Shadows" he muttered to himself, his mind racing to recall where he had encountered that name before. It flickered at the edge of his memory like a distant dream, tantalizingly close yet frustratingly elusive.

I swear I've seen this silhouette before

As the realization dawned on Xin Ming, a shock surged through him like a bolt of lightning.

Was it the Grand Magus? He is a very figure revered by the church and trusted by everyone in the city. Yet, a nagging memory surfaced—the warning from the saintess not to trust the Grand Magus, and his apparent dissatisfaction when Xin Ming acquired the holy sword.

The pieces of the puzzle clicked into place with alarming clarity. Could it be that the saintess's reserved words held more truth than he had initially realized?

Was the Grand Magus not the beacon of trustworthiness he appeared to be? Doubts gathered in Xin Ming's mind. If the saintess's warning held merit, then the implications were dire indeed. The trusted guardian of the city could very well be the Archduke of Shadows, orchestrating events from the shadows for his king. With a sense of urgency gripping his heart, Xin Ming knew he had to act swiftly.

The safety of the city and the saintess depended on uncovering the truth behind the Grand Magus's facade.

———————————————————

In the dimly lit chamber of the temple's underground room, the air hung heavy ominously, at the center of the room, a shimmering communication orb a faint, blue glow, casting eerie shadows across the walls.

With a flick of his wrist, the Grand Magus activated the orb, its surface rippling and becoming a full blue neon like color.

"Your Majesty," the Grand Magus intoned, his voice filled with reverence. "Our plans proceed as anticipated. The mortal realm quakes beneath the weight of our power and are still clueless about me."

The Demon King, shrouded in shadows, regarded the Grand Magus with a cold, calculating gaze. "And what of the pesky new hero?" he demanded, his voice a low, rumbling growl that sent shivers down the Grand Magus's spine."The hero known as Xin Ming indeed poses a threat with that legendary weapon." the Grand Magus replied, his tone laced with venomous disdain.

"But fear not, Your Majesty. I shall deal with him swiftly, ensuring that he never again interferes with our plans."

The Demon King's eyes narrowed, the flicker of malice dancing in their depths. "See that you do, Archduke" he rumbled. "For failure is not an option."

With a final nod of acquiescence, the Grand Magus bowed low before the shadowy visage of the Demon King, his heart filled with a mixture of dread and anticipation.

As the arcane connection between them waned, the Grand Magus stood up slowly and quietly slipped away and reverted everything with some kind of spell, it was as if no one was ever there.

The Grand Magus then approached a nun who was diligently attending to her duties within the temple right away. With a gesture, he beckoned her closer, his voice low and commanding as he issued his instructions.

"Sister Maria," he said, his tone pressuring the nun, "I have a message that must be delivered to Xin Ming. Tell him to meet me tomorrow, at dawn, in XXX."

The nun nodded obediently, her eyes downcast as she accepted the task entrusted to her by the esteemed Grand Magus. "Yes, Your Eminence," she replied dutifully, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Make sure he receives it promptly," the Grand Magus continued, his gaze piercing as he emphasized the importance of the message. "It is of utmost importance."With a final nod of affirmation, the nun hurried off to fulfill her errand, leaving the Grand Magus alone.

"Tomorrow will be your funeral, hero"