Super Spark of Duper Pride [OB] - Act II: Deconstruction

4-A: Spreading the Glory (Apex 4)

Apex 4:

After fixing the damages to the battlefield that is the shaft I patrol, I went to the Bottom Stratum in order to speak with our Elder, Gakia, about my plans to leave my post to pursue the Rising Star.

Elder: <She really managed to trick you?>

<Yes, twice in fact. First when she tricked me into attacking an illusion so she may trap me, then another when she secretly used what I believe to be [Sloth] to drain me of my EP during the fight without me noticing as she distracted me the entire time with the duel.>

Elder: <If she can trick you, than she can trick us all.>

<Certainly, she is not only is she clever, she has the diligence to make the most of her talent.>

Elder: <Oh, almost sounds like a certain someone I know.>

<Hm?>

Elder: <Nothing, go on and do tell me about the battle.>

I then went on to explain the details of our duel, with the Elder listening closely with much intrigue and amusement.

Elder: <Glorious indeed, and I am most pleased to see you act so out of character.>

<Pardon?>

Elder: <You are the least social of us Earth Dragons, usually so stoic and silent. Seeing you talk so passionately about something is most amusing, for it is a first.>

<Not just something, it's the Rising Star! And I just don't see the need to discuss trivial things like the others do all the time, my time is better spent perfecting my technique.>

Don't think of me like the others, I am a cut above the rest because I don't waste my time on nonsense.

Maker's Beloved: "Proficiency has reached the required level.

Acquired Skill [Desire LV1]."

...

Elder: <Ha ha, trivial indeed. Now, can I assume you plan on leaving your post to chase the new Rising Star for another battle?>

<Yes and more, that is what I am here to discuss with you actually.>

Elder: <I thought so, though you certainly took your time gushing about how amazing she is first.>

<I had to, her glory must be spreaded.>

Elder: <You certainly take much pride in her, heh. Feel free to leave your post, I will arrange for your replacement here.>

<You have my deepest gratitude, Elder.>

I was going to explain that the Maker has already given me permission, but now I have the Elder's permission as well.

Elder: <Think nothing of it, I am expecting to hear more about her exploits from you after all. I too wish to see how she will progress from here on out.>

<I am glad you believe in her as well.>

Elder: <Of course, but enough gushing about the new Rising Star. There are some important matters I wish to discuss with you before your departure.>

<I am listening.>

Elder: <First of all, have you determined whether she is a threat to the Maker's Beloved?>

<No, that I am unsure of, I will be sure to investigate that.>

Elder: <Good, then there is the matter of your discardment of the Maker's protection.>

<Yes, I am now vulnerable to D's influence.>

Elder: <Indeed, you just acquired [Desire] during our conversation, didn't you?>

<Yes, most unfortunate that it is already taking its toll. While I do not regret my decision, fear not, for my loyalty still lies with the Maker, and I am sure that my kin can defeat me should the worst happen.>

Elder: <I see...Well then, know that it would seem that she is leaving the labyrinth towards Kasanagara. I wish you luck in your quest, Araba.>

<Thank you, Elder.>

And with that, I left.

My first stop is the Lower Stratum, where I converse with my kin to further raise my [Telepathy] in order to increase its range.

In all likelihood, I would need to start a conversation with the Rising Star from a distance, as I doubt she would ever allow me to get close in the first place.

As for my fellow Earth Dragons, most were surprised by my loss to the Rising Star, while the rest were intrigued and impressed by her.

Good, I hope she goes down in history as a legend.

No, I am sure the Rising Star will.