Jack's heart was shaken profoundly. The so-called protector god, with a single stroke, had obliterated the mighty alliance of the three great races. It was an unimaginable feat. After all, these three races were the undisputed titans of the entire Oksas continent in both population and military strength. Yet, this mysterious figure had effortlessly slain two hundred thousand soldiers in one fell swoop, instilling a deep sense of awe and reverence in all who heard of it.
Seeing Jack's astonishment, Grimdar's face betrayed a mix of pride and reverence. "Indeed, revered Protector God," he said softly. "That battle not only ensured the survival of our dwarven clan but also instilled fear and respect in the hearts of the other races. Since then, we have recognized this deity as our Protector God. Our temple, our rituals, our veneration, all stand as a tribute to him."
Jack's emotions were a tangled web, unsure of how to respond. Instinctively, he felt that something was amiss. After all, he had no connection to this "Protector God," and the face of the statue in the temple bore an uncanny resemblance to his own, which unsettled him greatly.
"But I do not recall possessing such power, nor do I remember ever performing such a grand feat," Jack murmured. "I am but an ordinary man. How could I suddenly become your 'Protector God'?"
Grimdar's gaze lingered on him, his eyes glinting with a touch of mystery. "Revered Protector God, you claim no memory, but this has little to do with your recollections. What has transpired is beyond our control. The wheel of history turns invisibly, and sometimes, powerful forces thrust certain individuals onto the stage of myth. The deity we venerate, our Protector God, not only possesses immense power but also a profound sense of duty. This sense of purpose allows him, even after a thousand years, to continue influencing the fate of our dwarven race in ways we cannot fully understand."
Jack furrowed his brow, his mind whirling. Looking at Grimdar's eyes, full of awe and expectation, his unease and confusion deepened. "Are you saying that I... unknowingly became a 'vessel' for some god? Or is it that my fate was already sealed by some greater force?"
Grimdar fell silent for a moment, then spoke softly, "This is a secret of our dwarven race, a mystery we have pondered for ages. Perhaps you do not recall what happened, perhaps you know nothing of your past, but to us, your arrival has indeed altered our destiny." He paused, his voice growing more somber. "Perhaps one day, you will uncover the truth behind all of this. When that time comes, you will understand why we hold you in such profound reverence."
Jack took a deep breath, his desire to reject this weighty responsibility clashing with a strange pull within him. He knew, in that instant, that he was no longer a mere stranger in this land—fate had already pushed him toward an important role.
"I understand," Jack said slowly, nodding. Though his heart was filled with questions, he no longer protested. "However, if I am to help you rebuild your home, I shall temporarily bear the mantle of this 'Protector God.'"
A smile of relief and gratitude spread across Grimdar's face. "Thank you, revered Protector God. Your support is the hope of our dwarven race!"
At that moment, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed from outside the temple, followed by several dwarves rushing in. "Chief, the situation is dire! The remnants of the Bloodshed Mercenary Corps are approaching. We fear we may not be able to withstand their assault!"
Grimdar's face turned pale, and he jumped to his feet. "What? They dare come again?"
A heavy presence stirred in Jack's chest. He turned to Grimdar, his voice calm yet resolute. "Do not worry. I will help you face them."
He took a deep breath, his resolve solidifying. Though he had no desire to shoulder this responsibility, now that he was already embroiled in it, there was no turning back. Protecting these dwarves might well be the most meaningful thing he could do for the time being.
"Lead me to them," Jack said, his gaze unwavering, his steps steady.