51. Servant & Territory

In the Temple workshop, Felix, a Primordial Church sculptor, excitedly questions Chris about his new blessing. Chris admits Jake granted it via the Malefic Viper, prompting Felix to activate a god-sensing skill. The Eternal Servant partially possesses Felix, publicly greeting Jake as the Malefic One’s Chosen.

Jake demands the possession end when Felix’s body begins failing. With a brief manifestation of the Malefic Viper’s presence, the Eternal Servant withdraws, leaving Felix grievously harmed. Jake administers a potion, saving him, and Villy explains the Eternal Servant’s extreme fanaticism and the Primordial Church’s nature.

Villy clarifies that such possessions require consent and are dangerous, often tied to skills or Record fragments. Jake declines any champion-like path and jokes about commissioning a statue, needling Villy before the manifestation fades. Jake waits as both Felix and Chris lie unconscious.

Beyond Haven, the world shifts: barriers sealing D-grades at unclaimed Pylons drop, spawning opportunities. Monster nobles and displaced creatures seize Pylons, clash for territory, and receive godly backing, leading to increased assaults on human settlements, especially weaker ones.

While scouting for a new Pylon, a mid-tier D-grade gargoyle leading an aerial fortress and a thousand-strong host assesses Haven. Despite its apparent vulnerability, the host senses an overwhelming territorial claim and withdraws, acknowledging the domain of the Primal Hunter.