I'm The Devil - Chapter 242

Chapter 242: Leaving The Village

Elandor smiled, wiping the sweat from his brow. “Thank you, Elder Thoran. I am committed to protecting our village and ensuring that we are prepared for whatever may come.”

Thoran nodded, his expression serious. “Elandor, I think it is time you leave the village for bigger cities. I think this village is holding you back.”

Elandor blinked, surprised by Thoran’s statement. “Leave the village? Why do you say that, Elder Thoran?”

Thoran sighed, placing a hand on Elandor’s shoulder. “You have talents and abilities that are beyond what any of us could have imagined. Our village, though grateful for your protection, is too small for someone of your talents. Staying here may hinder your growth. In the bigger cities, you would find more opportunities to learn, to grow, and to face challenges that will push you even further.”

Elandor shook his head resolutely. “That won’t be necessary, Elder Thoran. I believe I can grow stronger under any condition, and my place is here, with my people.”

Thoran looked deeply into Elandor’s eyes, seeing the unwavering determination. “Elandor, I understand your loyalty to the village, but the world is vast, and there are many who could benefit from your abilities. We will always be grateful for your protection, but perhaps your destiny lies beyond our borders.”

What Thoran did not know was that Elandor had their god, Lucifer, as his master and mentor. With just a flick of his fingers, Elandor could protect and elevate the entire village. He respected Thoran’s perspective, but he knew that his growth and the village’s safety were not mutually exclusive.

“Elder Thoran, I appreciate your concern,” Elandor said gently, “but my journey is here. I have seen and experienced enough to know that true strength comes from within and that it is nurtured by the bonds we share with those around us. This village, with all its simplicity and challenges, is my training ground. Here, I am not only protecting my people but also learning the values of courage, unity, and resilience.”

Thoran sighed again, but this time his expression softened. “I see you have made up your mind, Elandor. Your wisdom and strength are beyond your years. If you believe that staying here is the right path, then we will support you.”

Elandor smiled warmly. “Thank you, Elder Thoran. Together, we will make this village a place of strength and peace.”

the village’s safety were not mutually exclusive.

“Elder Thoran, I appreciate your concern,” Elandor said gently, “but my journey is here. I have seen and experienced enough to know that true strength comes from within and that it is nurtured by the bonds we share with those around us. This village, with all its simplicity and challenges, is my training ground. Here, I am not only protecting my people but also learning the values of courage, unity, and resilience.”

Thoran sighed again, but this time his expression softened. “I see you have made up your mind, Elandor. Your wisdom and strength are beyond your years. If you believe that staying here is the right path, then we will support you.”

Elandor smiled warmly. “Thank you, Elder Thoran. Together, we will make this village a place of strength and peace.”

As the sun set, Elandor made his way back to his home, a modest dwelling at the edge of the forest. Inside, the ethereal glow marked the entrance to the personal space Lucifer had created for him. This space was a sanctuary where Elandor could train, meditate, and converse with his mentor without interruption.

Entering the space, he found Lucifer lounging on a celestial chaise, an ancient tome floating above his hand. Lucifer looked up lazily, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

“Elandor,” Lucifer drawled, “what brings you here so early? Finished your training for the day?”

Elandor sat down across from Lucifer, his expression thoughtful. “Elder Thoran spoke to me today. He suggested that I should leave the village and seek out bigger cities, saying that the village is holding me back.”

Lucifer’s eyes narrowed slightly, a curious glint in them. “And what did you decide?”

“I decided to stay,” Elandor replied firmly. “I believe I can grow stronger here, among my people.”

Lucifer’s expression changed dramatically. He stared at Elandor as if he were looking at a moron. “Have you no ambition?” he exclaimed, his voice tinged with frustration. “Elandor, you have immense power and potential. The world is vast, filled with countless opportunities to learn, to grow, and to make a difference. Why confine yourself to this small village?”

Elandor met Lucifer’s gaze, unflinching. “Master, I understand the vastness of the world and the opportunities it holds. But true strength comes from within and from the bonds we forge. This village is my home. It is where I have grown, learned, and protected. Here, I can continue to grow, not just in power, but in wisdom and character.”

Lucifer sighed, shaking his head. “You are indeed a rare student, Elandor. Most would leap at the chance to seek glory and power beyond their wildest dreams. But you choose loyalty and responsibility. Admirable, yet limiting.”

Elandor smiled softly. “Perhaps, Master. But I believe that strength without purpose is hollow. Here, I have a purpose. I can protect and nurture the people who have given me so much.”

Lucifer stood up, his demeanor shifting to one of resolve. “Very well, Elandor. If this is your choice, then so be it. But know this: your journey is far from over. In fact, it is just about to begin. There are challenges ahead that will test you in ways you cannot yet imagine. Prepare yourself, for the path we are about to walk will demand every ounce of your strength and resolve.”

Elandor felt a shiver of anticipation run through him. “What do you mean, Master?”

Lucifer’s eyes glowed with a mysterious light. “The world is changing, Elandor. Forces are stirring, both ancient and new. You will need to be ready to face them. Your training here has been but a foundation. It is time to build upon it.”

Elandor nodded, feeling a surge of determination. “I am ready, Master. Whatever lies ahead, I will face it.”

Lucifer’s expression grew serious. “Gather your things and say your goodbyes to the village. You have one week to prepare. It is time to leave this village.”

Elandor was taken aback. “Leave the village? But I thought…”

“You thought wrong,” Lucifer interrupted. “Your potential is boundless, but it will be wasted if you remain here. There is a greater destiny awaiting you, and you must be prepared to embrace it.”

Elandor’s mind raced as he considered Lucifer’s words. “But what about the village? Who will protect them in my absence?”

Lucifer’s gaze softened slightly. “I will take care of that. And you will always be able to return if they need you. But for now, your path lies elsewhere.”

Elandor took a deep breath, nodding slowly. “Very well, Master. I will do as you say.”

Over the next week, Elandor began to prepare for his departure. He spent time with each villager, offering words of wisdom and encouragement. He fortified the village’s defenses and shared his knowledge with those willing to learn. The villagers, though saddened by his impending departure, understood the necessity of his journey and supported him wholeheartedly.

As the final day approached, a farewell feast was held in his honor. The villagers gathered, celebrating Elandor’s contributions and expressing their gratitude. Elder Thoran and Elder Miriam gave heartfelt speeches, acknowledging the profound impact Elandor had on their lives.

“Elandor,” Thoran said, his voice filled with emotion, “you have been a beacon of hope and strength for us. Your journey may take you far from here, but you will always have a place in our hearts. May your path be filled with light and wisdom.”

Elandor bowed his head, deeply moved. “Thank you all. This village is my home, and it always will be. I promise to return, stronger and more capable, to protect and guide you.”

The villagers cheered, and the feast continued late into the night. Elandor felt a mixture of sadness and excitement, knowing that he was embarking on a journey that would shape his destiny.

The next morning, Elandor stood at the edge of the village, his belongings packed and ready. He took one last look at the place he had called home, the faces of the villagers etched in his memory. With a determined heart, he turned and began his journey, Lucifer by his side.

As they walked, Lucifer spoke. “Remember, Elandor, the path ahead will be fraught with challenges. But with each trial, you will grow stronger, wiser, and more capable. Trust in your abilities, and never forget the lessons you have learned here.”

Elandor nodded, feeling a sense of resolve. “I am ready, Master. Together, we will face whatever comes our way.”

And so, Elandor set forth, leaving the village behind but carrying its spirit within him. The journey ahead was unknown, but he knew that with Lucifer’s guidance and his own unwavering determination, he would rise to meet any challenge and fulfill his destiny.