Xiao X Reader [A Fragment of My Memories]

[41] Unfair Decisions

Karma. The corruptive forces left behind by the wills and powers of slain ancient gods. Its effects were especially rampant in the Archon War, where gods threw away all they had for a seat at Celestia.

But even after 2000 years, their remnants persisted in the living world. After all, gods never truly die.

_ _ _

"You found out sooner than expected." The humanoid shape spoke in low echoes. Xiao flinched ever so slightly upon hearing it but kept his stance.

"I had to rule out every possibility, before realizing that you were the one behind it."

The fumes began to lose their shape. It trembled and moved about as if they were shaking from laughter.

"Ahh... doesn't it take you back? It's disgusting how peaceful it's gotten around here." The fumes returned to a humanoid shape. "Well, how do you like it? Don't you miss it?"

Xiao cocked a brow as he tightened the grip on his spear. "...Why would I miss the centuries of slaughter you put me through?" He frowned. "Why would I miss what you put her through?" 

"Ah... that human girl." The black fumes had begun to lose their form again. But this time, it was not from laughter.

 "...All my plans were delayed because of her."

______________________________

You hastily got up as adrenaline kicked into your veins. "WAIT! Please..." you stumbled, hurrying towards him. "You can't possibly–"

"I can't possibly? You dare doubt my power?!" The dark figure easily loomed over you, casting an ominous shadow on you. 

"I... uh–"

Suddenly, you felt a suffocating pain around your throat. Then, your feet were lifted off the ground. 

You looked at the evil god with absolute fear. He had his hand wrapped around your tiny little neck. A primal gut feeling told you that with one wrong move, he would easily snap it in two. 

"If you don't bring me the Illuminated Beast, your worthless village will be gone."

You gasped, letting your eyes go wide as you stared at him in shock. 

"B-But..." your hands flew to his fingers as you tried your absolute hardest to relieve the suffocating feeling. You pulled and scratched, but it seemed like he couldn't even feel it. 

He chuckled at your futile attempt. "Who do you care about more? That Beast, or the children you've been caring for?" He asked, watching the color drain from your face with a smirk. "What, you think I wouldn't know?"

"I..." You dropped your gaze as your body went limp. 

Why was he making you choose? How could you even choose? Would you have to risk the life of your dearest friend and companion? Or would you give up the lives of all the villagers in your home? Many of whom are your patients, whom you've spent much time caring for. 

"How could you make me choose...?" you mumbled as a tear flowed down your trembling cheek. But then you felt the evil god's hand wrap even tighter around your neck. 

"I will give you until the count of three." He holds up his other hand, facing his palm toward the village. "One."

"W–Wait..." you choked. 

"Two." His hand started glowing a deep, sinister red.

'No...' You gazed at the village in defeat. 'I'm sorry....'