I was Reincarnated as an Ant! Vol.2

Chapter 4.2.1: Nih's Tale

"What do you want?" I blurted out, my tone tinged with suspicion. She smiled warmly, addressing me with reverence, recognizing me as Aed, the mythical creature linked to Jan's power. Her request for my blessing among the team caught me off guard.

"Huh?" I responded, baffled by her unexpected plea. Before I could gather my thoughts, Yeshia materialized behind me, her sudden appearance startling the dragon-newt lady. As she bowed respectfully in her presence, Yeshia's solemn words hung in the air: "Aed isn't aware yet."

"I'm not sure, nor interested. Jan must have alerted you," I replied firmly, my tone reflecting my reluctance to involve myself in intricate schemes at the moment. Flying over to Yeshia, I landed gracefully on her outstretched arm, finding solace in her presence as we settled into a quiet moment of respite.

"I'm in a bit of a rush, lady, I'm sorry. I've only recently awakened, and we shall talk again in the future. For now, I need to go see Nih. I think I've heard of you in the past from Nih," I explained politely, acknowledging the dragonnwet woman's presence before manifesting a portal in the hallway. Among my few Ultimate Skills, Temporal Ruler granted me spatial awareness, while the Mana skill bestowed incredible capabilities. My thoughts effortlessly translated into actions, aided by a vast array of skills and Ultimates at my disposal. It felt almost like cheating to wield such immense control. I couldn't help but wonder if the Demonlord possessed abilities surpassing even this level of mastery.

As I pondered my own capabilities, I sensed Jan's reassurance and contentment with my return. His presence brought a sense of comfort, yet I couldn't shake the underlying feeling of unease, mirrored in his own disdain. We shared a mutual understanding, a shared sentiment of being repulsed by the immense power we wielded. Despite the strangeness of the situation, I couldn't help but smile. It was then that I noticed Yeshia's subtle reaction, as if she too sensed the complexities of my emotions. It was a peculiar realization, hinting at a deeper connection between us that transcended the exclusive bond between Jan and I.

As I reflected on the intricate web of connections to my soul, three distinct links stood out, with Jan being unmistakably one of them. The identities of the other two remained shrouded in mystery, a puzzle awaiting unraveling in due time. Jan's apprehension mirrored my own, but I offered him reassurance, focusing on the present moment. The order of events had already been set in motion, and I had much to learn and catch up on since my slumber. With determination and resolve, I return to the present moment.

"So please listen to Yeshia, I am not aware of what it is you want. I don't want to go ahead and name you or anything, I'm sorry," I concluded, addressing the dragonnwet woman with a sense of earnestness. As the portal materialized, Yeshia appeared momentarily astounded by my feat, but her demeanor swiftly shifted to one of indifference. She understood the abnormality that often accompanied my extraordinary abilities, a testament to the unique nature of my being as Aed, the awesome. Or so I thought to myself, embracing the enigmatic essence that defined my existence.

As the lady smiled and departed, I exchanged a glance with Yeshia before stepping into the portal, where Nih awaited, engrossed in a book. Despite the temptation to peek into its contents, I sensed Jan's caution urging restraint. It irked me slightly to be under his watchful eye, but I understood his concern for my safety and security. The lingering presence of the evil god within me remained a constant reminder of the potential dangers that lay ahead, although the threat seemed dormant for the time being. With Jan's guidance and vigilance, I navigated the precarious balance between power and peril, aware of the responsibilities that came with wielding such extraordinary abilities.