Shota's Isekai NTR Adventure Chapter 1945: Cast away (3)

A heavy, deathly silence gripped the surroundings.

It was evident that the Merman King’s retinue struggled to process what they had just heard, yet denying the reality before their eyes proved impossible.

Firstly, the source of this information was a god.

While this deity clearly harbored a grudge against their own patron, it was unlikely a god would spread such malicious lies—especially in the presence of someone they held in high regard.

Had that certain individual not been there, ignoring the claims would have been far simpler for them.

Secondly, a multitude of different races stood gathered right in front of them.

With such undeniable evidence staring them down, turning a blind eye was no longer an option.

The fury and terror radiating from these various beings were genuine. Emotions of this intensity, where people were prepared to fight for their convictions, simply could not be manufactured.

It was undeniable that a dark history had unfolded in this place.

“Why did this happen?” the Merman King finally managed to mutter.

I shifted my gaze toward Aestum, sharing the same curiosity.

“How should I know what that tyrant was thinking? One day, he abruptly exiled every race within his domain just to favor his chosen people. With no place left for them, I welcomed them into my territory and have protected them ever since.”

Aestum let out a weary sigh before continuing, “However, my power could only shield a limited amount of land. Even though they were saved, they were forced into a life of restriction, never allowed to flourish as they were meant to.”

Surveying the area, I noted how tightly the coral dwellings were packed together.

The sheer variety of races inhabiting this space seemed to occupy every available inch of ground.

The entire area felt desperately overcrowded.

It appeared that a vast number of different species had sought refuge here.

While each race required its own specific environment and living space, the lack of territory meant they had to make do with whatever comforts they could manage.

It was little wonder they all appeared so undernourished.

Resources were clearly scarce, particularly since the whirlpools had never been allowed to expand.

It was the heavy price they paid to remain hidden.

“No, Lord Aquaron would never commit such an act.”

Finally, one of the royal guards shattered the silence.

His voice trembled with a shattered faith; his absolute devotion to Aquaron was being torn apart by the evidence before him, making the truth impossible to stomach.

“Restrain him,” the Merman King commanded after witnessing the guard's outburst.

Though he doubted the guard would truly turn violent, he couldn't afford to take any risks at this moment.

The other guards hesitated momentarily, but they ultimately obeyed the directive. However, their reluctant expressions suggested they were performing the task against their will.

“What was the reason for their exile?” the Merman King inquired.

He wasn't outright denying the claims, but he wasn't ready to accept them blindly either. He sought to discover if there was another perspective to this tragedy.

“I have already given you the reason,” Aestum replied flatly.

The Merman King remained skeptical, as did the rest of his group.

It was clear the Merman King’s party was desperate to find some justification for Aquaron’s past actions.

Conversely, I recalled my own encounter with Aquaron.

Based on the impression he left on me, this behavior seemed entirely in character. He struck me as someone deeply obsessed with his own image.

Then again, no god is ever truly simple.

If such an event occurred, even Aquaron wouldn't have done it without a specific motive.

There had to be a deeper reason why Aquaron eventually discarded these races...

After a prolonged pause, the Merman King declared, “I will return and examine the ancient records. I will uncover the truth behind this.”

His voice was resolute, as if he were on a mission to find proof of Aquaron’s innocence.

Yet, he was making this vow to a being far older than himself—a god who had witnessed the events firsthand.

Success for the Merman King would not come easily.

“Do as you wish. I will not be difficult today, as I can sense your sincerity,” Aestum remarked before turning his attention away from the King.

Addressing me, Aestum cautioned, “Holy Son, I advise you to be cautious about your future alliances. Certain gods are simply not worthy of your trust.”

I narrowed my eyes at Aestum and replied, “For the moment, we have more pressing matters to attend to.”

The orb of blue light bobbed as if nodding in agreement. He then turned to the kraken and said, “Go. Follow the Holy Son back and keep a close watch on these dogs of Aquaron.”

The kraken offered no verbal reply, simply nodding its head in silent consent.