Chapter 14: Substitutes

Where on earth had Elena gone?
If Onya and Salenko learned of Elena’s current situation, they might go mad.
Komer watched with interest the unconscious body before him.
Once the veil covering this body was lifted, Komer regretted allowing such a being, filled with truth, goodness, beauty, and serenity, to be possessed by Umma’s twisted spirit—it seemed like a sacrilege. Yet Komer enjoyed such sacrilege; defiling light was equivalent to worshipping darkness, which seemed to be what Komer always pursued.
Komer slowly stripped off the holy maiden’s clothes, revealing her flawless, beautiful naked body—full curves in all the right places, possessing everything a mature woman should have. Coupled with her elegant face radiating holiness, even in unconsciousness, Komer could sense her steadfastness.
Komer crouched down and fiddled with her full breasts; there was a crimson mark between them—probably the symbol of the holy maiden in their faith. Only the purest and most perfect women could hold such a noble position. But in his hands, she might become a seductress who burned herself like a flame.
Truly a natural beauty! Komer marveled inwardly, feeling pity for her.
Komer stroked his chin, gazing thoughtfully at the body before him. He had to give Umma what she demanded, especially since Umma had indeed made great sacrifices in this battle.
Although the two giant zombie warriors managed to defend their dark essence, their battered bodies showed just how fierce the battle against the light knights had been. Continuous magical attacks had put them under immense pressure. Without their fierce resistance, those three light knights breaking into the barbarian warriors’ ranks would have caused unimaginable consequences.
The Black Knight’s skeleton army was completely annihilated. Under the combined assault of the light mages, it was already remarkable that they lasted until the end of the war. The most unfortunate was that soul-devouring dwarf was locked in place by the holy flame from this woman’s hands, burned to ashes by the purest fire of the holy light. Even Komer felt deep sorrow. But if not for Elena successfully luring the soul-devouring dwarf away, his own ambush might not have succeeded—so it was a fair trade.

Big Bear’s words that his body could finally be returned to him really made Komer reluctant to let this body, which had already reached the level of a Golden Corpse, be occupied by Umma, that wastefulwasteful fellow. He had put in a lot of effort to train Big Bear to such a level, only for Umma to mistreat it at will. Komer had long intended to take it back but had never found a suitable replacement. Now, this body in front of him seemed to be the best bargaining chip.

A chill sensation came from behind. Komer sensed ripples in the air—no tangible object. Aside from Umma, no one else seemed capable of doing such things. Despite suffering such severe injuries, she was still so arrogant; truly unrepentant.

“Hehe, Komer, I really didn’t expect you to have such a hobby. What’s the point of playing with unconscious women? If you want to play, let her wake up and gradually let her feel the pleasure of you manipulating her, building your joy on her pain—that’s what makes it interesting.”

A voice came from behind, shifting left and right, full of teasing and provocation. “I can lend her to you for a few days, but not too long. I need this body, and I also need time to get used to her.”

“Did I say I’d give you this body?” Komer stood up and asked calmly, without turning around. He knew he couldn’t see the other person at this moment.

“What do you mean?!” The voice suddenly became sharp, as if someone were squeezing its throat. Komer could even sense the anger coming from behind.

“Nothing much. I just think the pure and strong light energy within this woman is too strong. With your current condition, can you really control her? Don’t get melted by its backlash—that would be a huge joke. I’m doing this for your own good,” Komer said nonchalantly, shrugging.

“Hmph, you underestimate me? Underestimating me is the same as underestimating yourself!” Umma’s voice turned icy. “Although I’ve suffered some losses, these tricks of the Light Holy Church aren’t a problem for me. Give me a month, and I’ll show you a brand-new Light Holy Maiden.”

“Since you insist, I certainly have no objections.” Komer didn’t want to antagonize her. The ensuing battles might continue, even becoming more intense and brutal. He needed stronger support, and this guy behind him was undoubtedly an important part of that.

“Hmph, as long as you understand, then hurry up and recover. I also need some time to mend myself. The Supreme Light Divine Net of the Light Church is indeed interesting—it almost trapped me. I need to study thoroughly what new tricks the Light Church has come up with over the years. This woman is the perfect subject for research. I suppose you need this as well.” The cold words spread through the air like steel wires, seemingly fading away gradually.

“Uma, you’d better mend your own flaws. Don’t underestimate the power of the Holy Light. Arrogance isn’t confidence. I’ll still need you often. I don’t want to see a sickly companion.” Komer spoke bluntly. This guy was far too conceited, which was often the cause of setbacks, and he refused to accept criticism. If he didn’t learn from his mistakes, more blows might hit her. In this regard, Shatima was far stronger than her.

“Hmph!” An angry hiss disappeared into the air behind Komer. Komer ignored her displeasure. If this guy wasn’t given a wake-up call, he’d always think he was the best. If it weren’t for Clarence’s outstanding performance today, she might have spent her entire life trapped in the Supreme Light Divine Net.

Clarence had performed well, proving his abilities and loyalty through his actions. Perhaps she could give him some guidance. Having a earth mage in her army could greatly enhance its combat strength. Fran had already shown faint interest in this, which was rare. But it was a change in mindset, and Komer was looking forward to it.