"The name 'Bo Xun' is hard to bear. Alastor, what are your plans for the future?"
He rubbed his head and asked.
"What's there to be afraid of?" Alastor raised an eyebrow and retorted. "I was never afraid when I was just a mortal student, let alone now that I've gained divine power. A lion in the flesh, worm in the flesh. Since the Mithra Group is actively trying to drag me in, how can I let go of the opportunity to cause trouble?"
This person was even more radical than Hayden in his actions.
Originally, Hayden's unexpected creation of a dragon god named "Bojun" during the ritual would have prompted a thorough investigation by the Mithra Group. If they were serious about it, it wouldn't be surprising if they dragged this newly appeared Bojun dragon away for dissection and examination.
Fortunately, Peacock King intervened immediately after the incident, claiming that this new Mara Dragon God was synthesized using his daughter Kallen's new technology. "So, you want to dissect this dragon? Are you trying to steal my intellectual property? Are you disrespecting me?"
Thanks to the intervention of the Peacock King, the Mithra Group only gave Alastor a cursory examination and bestowed upon him the new god name "Mahasattva Mara." Since the element of "otherhood" was no longer present, the Mithra Board of Directors probably intended to turn a blind eye... That said, the Peacock King wasn't exactly a convenient tool. Hayden couldn't rely on him to cover things up forever.
Moreover, Peacock King's position within the Mithra Group is already quite special. As the strongest ancient deity in the past, the board members are still wary of him.
"Compared to me, you need to worry more about how to play your game in the future."
Alastor said in a rarely solemn tone,
“The Mitra Group isn’t stupid. Those financial gurus can also see that more and more resources and influence are being concentrated around you. You’ve begun to have a significant power that can affect the course of events.”
"Comrade Hayden, how exactly do you intend to lead these forces?"
This is essentially the same question that Koyo just wanted to ask Hayden.
186: War and/or Peace
The questions Alastor is asking now are essentially the same as the questions that Momiji didn't ask.
Hayden has amassed increasing power. He has gradually accumulated the strength of a god, even reaching a level of influence somewhat comparable to that of a true god. Many lesser gods do not wield as much influence in the upper echelons of society as Hayden.
This is truly a case of a lowly official serving in front of a prime minister's gate, the only difference being that Hayden is not only skilled at guarding the gate, nor does he only want to be a gatekeeper.
So the question is—what does Hayden intend to do next?
He resurrected Hongye Qiuhua, a dead man in the eyes of a large corporation, and Alastor, a terrorist in the eyes of a large corporation. Now everyone can see that he doesn't just want to stand out in the Mitra Group's system and fight for power.
Let's look at Hayden's current social network—just how many powerful figures in the financial world are standing around him? Let's not even talk about Karen, right? Karen also has two powerful figures in the financial world attached to her, one of whom is even a top-tier Peacock King among the [Ming Wang] level.
Then there's Miktikashiva, the Death Goddess of the Smoke Mirror Company, a director at the "God-level" (roughly equivalent to the Mingwang level on Mitra's side), who also likes Hayden. However, we all know she's mentally unstable, so whether she counts as an ally is complicated, let's not consider her an ally for now.
But surely the two newly created gods, Pazuzu the Magical Girl Goddess and Mara the Great Lord, can be counted among Hayden's friends?
Outsiders may not know, but we all know that if Hayden were to demand that Alastor risk his life to blow up some Mithra Group tower for him, Alastor wouldn't even bat an eye. At most, he would discuss with Hayden whether it was necessary to blow it up, but he wouldn't say he refused.
Even though they haven't known each other for long, they've now become like brothers who've been through thick and thin together.
Then, continuing down the line, we find a small group of followers from the lower strata of society around Hayden, a group of demi-human believers abandoned by modern society in the wasteland, and even a small mountain town (although this town actually belongs to Karen).
Angela's affairs were basically known only to Hayden's inner circle, so let's not include them.
These facts alone make Hayden, a mortal who is not yet a god, seem incredibly incomprehensible.
He was no longer a piece on the chessboard that could be moved around at will. Although somewhat reluctantly, Hayden was now able to exert some initiative in influencing the overall game.
So at times like this, whether it's his own people or other observers outside, they can't help but want to ask one question:
What do you want to do next?
The other capitalists observing Hayden from the outside were probably more composed. Most of them only knew how to analyze Hayden through the lens of capitalist logic, believing that he was simply climbing the social ladder and improving his class by relying on Karen and the Peacock King.
However, those close to Hayden generally knew that Hayden's efforts were clearly not for climbing the ranks within the system. So what exactly did he want to achieve by gathering such a large force?
rebel?
In any case, Alastor definitely believed that Hayden wanted to rebel. And given the right opportunity and chance of success, Alastor would wholeheartedly support Hayden's rebellion.
The thoughts of Akika Momiji, who has recently joined the Hayden team, are actually quite similar.
So what did Hayden actually think?
He, actually,
...I'm not entirely sure yet.
Of course, Hayden wanted to improve the world. Alastor, the radical, wanted to too. Actually, Alastor wasn't particularly radical; at least he always had some principles.
But even when Alastor was just a mortal last year, he was a genius in the field of information arcane arts, capable of even stealing some of the Mithra Group's confidential information. Now, he's practically a god and has joined the Mithra Group. Just as the old saying goes, "a worm in the lion's body," how astonishing things can he possibly do now?
If Hayden truly intended to change the world and wage armed struggle, his forces would be in dire need of such a talent.
The question, however, is whether Hayden really had to resort to armed struggle?
Karen also wanted to improve this damned society. But she didn't intend to rely on armed struggle; instead, she planned to advance technology. By developing technology and increasing productivity, she could create new social relationships and structures... This theory wasn't entirely untenable.
Karen's philosophy was to prove through technological development that capitalists don't necessarily need to engage in cutthroat competition. Instead, they could reduce cutthroat competition and create a better society by investing in technological development, increasing productivity, and expanding the pie.
What about Hayden?
His original intention was to make medicine and develop affordable medical technology that every ordinary person could afford! But no one stipulates that this must be tied to armed struggle, right?
That being said, the idea that Hayden could save all of humanity simply by staying in his lab and developing new medical technologies... even Hayden himself felt that this didn't seem quite right, and it made him uneasy.
Whether it's armed struggle, improving technological productivity, or even, like Mara in his time, wanting to exterminate all of humanity—the desire to improve the world is the same, and there are simply too many possible choices. What determines which one to choose? Is there sufficient investigation and evidence? Won't it actually make the world worse?
People cannot solve social problems on a whim. Historical experience has shown that reckless actions not only fail to solve social problems, but may also create other, more serious problems for society.
If Hayden were just a pawn, he could have simply given up. But now that he's gaining power, the pressure is immense.
Fortunately, he has recently developed a good habit: to be honest with his friends and to speak frankly with his comrades.
So Hayden honestly answered Alastor:
"I'm still thinking about it; I don't have a definite answer yet."
These words made Alastor raise an eyebrow: "...You didn't consider this question at all before you resurrected me?"
“No, really.” Hayden shook his head. “I saw an opportunity to revive you, and the situation at the time just happened to require you to deal with [Bojun the God], so I went ahead and did it.”
Alastor was finally speechless.
Instead, Professor Albion, who had been standing in the corner of the room observing and had previously provided technical guidance to Hayden, spoke up at this moment, smiling and saying, "There's nothing wrong with that. Hayden, you can respond to your inner calling when forced by circumstances. You have that strong intuition, which is certainly a great quality, but there's no need to be anxious about it."
“Actually, neither of you should be in such a hurry. Alastor, you’ve been resurrected for less than forty-eight hours. It’s too early to argue with your friend about this. You need to spend more time discussing this matter, investigating and discussing every aspect of the issue, as thoroughly as possible. That’s the quality my students should have, instead of acting like two fools pointing fingers at their own arrogance.”
Not only Hayden, but even Alastor was clearly somewhat afraid of Professor Albion. The two looked at each other for a moment, then fell silent.
"And what about you?" Alastor suddenly asked, "Professor, don't you have any opinions of your own? Don't you have any ideas on how to make the world a better place?"
“Ha,” Professor Albion stroked his long white beard, his smile widening, “that would be interfering with the political judgment of young people. I am your professor, your scholar. My mission is to teach you knowledge and to pursue truth, not to interfere in politics. It is you who should discuss, find your own place and direction, and propose solutions. Only after that… should you make decisions.”
Alastor, who had dropped out of school midway, and Hayden, who had graduated long ago, could only listen attentively to Professor Albion's words as if they were in class, and then fall into deep thought.
Thinking is not a bad thing.
Only through deep thought and exploration can one find a better path.
But before that...
"I need to get some sleep, I'm so exhausted."
Hayden covered his face and said,
"Then I have to go see Pania."
————————————————————————————
Alastor... or rather, [Mahasattva Mara], after his resurrection, nominally became a [heavenly] deity under the jurisdiction of the Peacock King.
The same applies to 【Magical Girl Pazuzu】. She has now become a subordinate of the goddess Mikkuri, a 【minor god】.
Some people might be wondering at this point. Pania dreams of ascending to godhood and living a good life, so why is she still working under the goddess Mikt now that she's a goddess? Can't she just take advantage of her large fanbase and popularity to leave the company and go solo?
Of course not!
First of all, the Smoke Mirror Company is certainly not stupid. Goddess Mikkelsen had already signed contracts with these new god candidates.
Secondly, the reason why the true God is the ruling class in modern society is not only because of His powerful individual fighting ability, but more importantly because God can handle affairs on multiple fronts, respond to believers, and combine the nature of multiple forces.
There are very few martial gods in the world like the Peacock King, who can single-handedly dominate with his sword and whose fighting power is comparable to that of a large army. Most gods are better suited to playing the role of the core of an organization and the leader.
If Magical Girl Pazuzu were to run away from the company and try to go solo, not to mention whether Smoke Mirror Company would hunt her down, wouldn't other big companies want to taste the flesh and blood of this lone goddess?
Even if a minor deity without an organizational background can bully mortals, they won't survive in the battle royale game among the gods.
On the bright side, at least Pania's goal has been achieved.
When Hayden arrived at the New Yatu villa of the goddess Miket, Miket was in the study with Panya. Today, Miket didn't pet Panya as casually as she usually petted a cat; instead, she sat facing Panya on two single sofas in the study, chatting leisurely.
Although Pania was still terrified, Hayden could tell that the atmosphere between them was much more relaxed than usual.
Because the goddess Mikkuri no longer regards Panya as a tiny ant that can be crushed with a single finger. Although they are not entirely equal, they can now be considered "of the same kind."
When you go out for a walk, no one counts how many ants they step on and kill along the way.
For ants, it's just a matter of humans destroying them; what does it have to do with them?
However, one cannot treat one's own kind like ants or beasts. Besides, if Pania is truly pushed to the limit, she can transform into [Magical Girl Pazuzu] at any moment and fight to the death. At that time, Goddess Micket would probably have to use one or two tenths of her true power to defeat Pania. That cost is too high. Why bother? It's better to invest in her, win her over, and let her help you make money and develop.
“You’ve come at the perfect time, Mr. Hayden. I was just talking to Pazuzu about handing over Qiqimiti Entertainment to her in the future.”
Seeing Hayden enter, the goddess Mikkelsen smiled slightly at him.
"With the example of the idol Pazuzu ascending to godhood, it's easier for other idols to listen attentively when she's in charge of management and operations."
Hayden was taken aback: "Huh? But we're not planning to create gods with idols anymore, are we?"
As mentioned before, after the last accident, both companies felt that doing it this way was too costly and not worthwhile.
The goddess Mikkul replied with a smile, "It's alright. There's no need for them to know."
Although Pania frowned slightly at these words, she didn't see anything too wrong with them—even if her idol didn't have the chance to become a true god, he still had a chance to become a god. For the middle class, becoming a god was a social advancement that countless people would fight tooth and nail for.
Hayden couldn't help but feel speechless.
If it were simply a matter of "some people are born in Rome, and some are born as beasts of burden," that would be easy to explain. As long as people can move freely and everyone is equal, even beasts of burden can gradually become human through hard work, and then all roads lead to Rome.
While it's true that millions compete for a single spot, and luck plays a significant role, Pania's rise to godhood is undeniably an inspiring story. From a middle-class girl to a goddess, living in a big house and eating steak—that's certainly a remarkable tale.
The real fear is that Rome has been specially shaped, not only receiving special treatment but also having a limited number of people allowed to enter the city—in that case, Rome will always be Rome, and cattle will always be cattle. The city will only become increasingly difficult to enter.
From middle class to gods, from gods to true gods
Are the walls between classes becoming increasingly difficult to cross?
Despite the continuous advancement of technology, why are the barriers between social classes becoming higher and thicker?
"Speaking of which, Mr. Hayden, you pulled a lot of strings during the ceremony of this tournament and gained quite a few benefits... Although the specifics are a bit unclear, both the Celestial Maiden Mira and I have seen a lot of things."
The goddess Mikkelsen suddenly smiled and said,
"However, I didn't reveal any of this. I even went to great lengths to smooth things over for you. I also didn't try to take away any benefits you secretly obtained."
Why did she suddenly say that?
Hayden was startled upon hearing this. He did know that the goddess Mikt had smoothed things over for him during the ceremony, and he had been wondering why she had helped him so much. Was she now trying to blackmail him, trying to get a share of the spoils?
"The more I observe your games, the more I realize your potential. Even if I do nothing, you will one day become a god, a new god."
That being said, two beams of longing red light flickered in Miktikashiva's emerald green eyes.
“I don’t understand what kind of emotional relationship you have with Karen. So, although this is a proposal I made last time, I want to put it another way this time—I don’t ask you to actively satisfy my desires, but based on the possible future resource ownership and return rate, I want to choose to love you.”
Even so, you still don't want to marry me?
187: Care
噫
After hearing what Miktikahiva said, Hayden felt more like he was laughing and crying than surprised.
Miktikashiva was exceptionally beautiful. She had long, dazzling blonde hair, and her skin was the palest color a human could describe as beautiful. Her floor-length black gown accentuated her voluptuous figure. Her jewel-like green eyes shone with a hint of red—a deep longing for Hayden, filled with a dreamlike allure.
Unfortunately, Hayden couldn't muster any enthusiasm looking at the goddess Micket in this state; instead, he felt a sense of powerlessness, unable to get an erection.
The conversation itself was ridiculous enough.
However, Goddess Mickett is a director [a powerful figure] of the Smoke Mirror Company. Hayden has to give her face and can't laugh out loud on the spot... *chuckle*
"Ms. Miktikashiva, you probably don't have much experience with lovers in the past?"
So Hayden thought for a moment and tentatively asked in a less pointed way.
"Indeed not."