"Indeed. It's too early to think about that now."
Now that she had gradually calmed down, the intense stimulation brought by the demigod transformation was beginning to fade, and her emotions slowly stabilized.
In a composed state, she could better analyze and judge the situation.
"Amamiya, I also want to know about the form of mythical creatures."
"By the way, you achieved that form after stepping onto the Sequence Path. So what about those of us who aren't following that path?"
The two questions posed by Sanzenin Nagi were still crucial, closely related to everyone present.
"The form of mythical creatures is pretty much what it sounds like. Once you step onto the Sequence Path, you start developing a form beyond human, one that leans toward the essence of power. But it's not a visible creature. Rather, it's a state that's difficult to comprehend or define."
"You could even say it's a symbol or a mark on a canvas, with the creature being judged by how you perceive it."
"In other words, the closer you get to true power, the more marks and symbols appear on your identity as a human. These marks gradually evolve into a form beyond humanity—a form of pure power."
Faced with Nagi's question, Ren did his best to explain based on his own understanding.
"Power manifests as symbols and marks. As we pursue power, we more or less start to etch these symbols into our being. Eventually, our forms become shaped by power itself. This form isn't something easily understood, but based on our perception, it tends to resemble mythological creatures."
"Does that make sense?"
Nagi quickly pieced together a summary in her mind.
"That's right."
Ren confirmed, and Nagi now had a rough grasp of it.
It wasn't that hard to comprehend. Those who pursued power were destined to live longer, and adopting a non-human form was a natural result of transcending the ordinary.
"As for your second question, I can't give you a direct answer. But based on my guess, different powers, once honed to the point of qualitative change, will develop stronger symbols. These are the marks formed by the power you've mastered."
"When these symbols become strong enough, your form will start to change as you adapt to this power. I think that adapting to this indescribable transformation is what constitutes a mythical creature form."
Hearing this, Nagi gave a slight nod.
That explained a lot. It aligned closely with her own theory. As knowledge and power reached a certain critical threshold, the body would adjust and evolve to house more power, gradually developing a unique form.
This was the secret of the demigods.
A form that was entirely different from humanity, based purely on power.
In other words, different types of power would lead to different transformations, and the final form of mythical creatures would vary accordingly.
"I think I get it now."
"Unlike previous stages, this stage of the extraordinary involves a form that's entirely distinct from ordinary people. It's also the stage where the power gap is the greatest."
As Nagi said this, she lifted her Vision, and a wind-shaped symbol shimmered on it.
"Just like how, at this stage, I need a Vision as an external magical organ. But once I transcend this stage, I'll develop a magic organ that can directly absorb external forces and convert them into elemental power. That will be the sign of becoming a god."
"Is that correct?"
Ren nodded slightly, praising her,
"As expected of a genius girl. Your understanding is remarkable."
Sanzenin Nagi smiled with satisfaction at the compliment.
"Now, back to the matter of the Sequence Path. After assuming a mythical creature form, an extraordinary individual becomes a demigod. Once they transcend that into the divine realm, they gain what's called divinity."
"Divinity is both a blessing and a burden. After all, divinity and humanity are fundamentally opposed. Excessive divinity turns one into a slave to power. That's why, after reaching the demigod realm, you need an anchor to stabilize your humanity and maintain the balance between the two."
"If that balance is broken, there's a risk of losing control."
"But you don't have to worry too much. While demigods do need an anchor, it doesn't have to come from a follower's belief. You can also use me as an anchor for your humanity."
"By becoming my follower—believing in me—you can stabilize your humanity."
"And after the incident last night, I think I might be able to manage the risk of corruption and losing control. If nothing unexpected happens, I should have a clearer answer next time. As for whether your humanity can truly be anchored by me, you'll have to reach the demigod realm to find out."
…
Divinity came with its perks, but also with inevitable drawbacks.
That was something everyone understood. Fortunately, there were ways to deal with it, and Ren had laid it out clearly.
"Oh~ So that's why you want to make Miss Hatamoto your follower."
Chika seemed to understand now. It turned out that Ren was making preparations for life as a demigod.
"I do have that idea. Whether I'll need an anchor or not, I'm still unsure. But it's better to prepare ahead of time. If you know you'll need something, it's smart to get it ready early instead of panicking later."
Ren made the decision cautiously, then let out a quiet sigh.
"This is the hardest era to spread belief, but it's also the best era to do so."
Shinomiya Kaguya understood the meaning behind that statement.
"Because modern people are educated not to believe in things like faith. But the moment they witness a miracle, they become the most devoted followers."
"Just like Miss Hatamoto."
Ren smiled slightly and nodded.
"That's exactly what I mean."
(To be continued.)