Chapter 49: The Seven Deadly Sins(2)
Chapter 49: The Seven Deadly Sins(2)
To a believer, a 'God' is a spiritual pillar of support more reliable than anyone else. Even if they do not manifest directly, believers hold a firm conviction in their existence, spreading their teachings to better the world.
However, that is the story of 'Earth.' In this world, gods truly exist, making it impossible to deny them. The moment one openly defies a god, divine punishment descends, and the gods reveal their presence through a unique power known as 'Divine Power.'
As such, denying the gods is unthinkable in this world, which served as the catalyst for the significant development of 'Theology.' Theology is a vital field of study for all people of this world, regardless of race, and it is a subject every priest must master.
Yet, despite its advancement, theology still had its shortcomings. It primarily focused on how to correctly interpret divine oracles and what lessons the gods had historically imparted to their followers.
It was, in a sense, disorganized—lacking a definitive 'framework.' Throughout history, many scholars and sages had poured immense effort into establishing this framework, but almost all had eventually given up.
The history of gods walking alongside mortals was longer than one could imagine, and the teachings received over that vast span of time were so numerous that they were incredibly difficult to codify.
Because of this, theology was often viewed as a branch of history. Nevertheless, many priests firmly believed that an opportunity to redefine the field would eventually come—a chance to establish true 'Theology,' not just a record of the gods' interactions with mortals.
And the fruits of that long wait were finally beginning to ripen.
"Is the mere possession of these vices truly a sin? I believe not. In fact, Lord Luminous himself was once envious of Lady Mora. Yet, he did not commit a direct sin."
"Are you saying a sin is only established when one acts upon that vice?"
"Precisely. However, while a fleeting impulse is acceptable, harboring that vice continuously would also constitute a sin."
A group of people dressed in white were engaged in a heated debate around a circular table. Most were elderly, with silver hair and wrinkled faces, their robes adorned with the golden-embroidered emblem of their order.
They were followers of the Luminous Order, the most powerful religious faction in the world, but they were no ordinary believers. They were Archbishops with immense influence within the Order and professors who taught theology.
While it wasn't unusual for them to gather for discussion, there was a distinct difference today: they were exchanging opinions with unprecedented passion. Normally, these Archbishops met at regular intervals for formal discussions that were largely perfunctory, yielding little of actual substance.
But now, it was entirely different. It was as if a long-blocked dam had suddenly burst; a torrent of diverse opinions flowed forth, followed by an endless stream of counterarguments.
"We must pay particularly close attention to the sin of Pride. As you all know, the proud have inevitably fallen since ancient times. We need look no further than the Elves for an example. The author clearly understood this, as he cast a demon as the representative of Pride among the Elves."
"Pride... While the others require further study, the sin of Pride is undeniable. Lord Luminous himself taught us never to be arrogant and to always remain humble."
"Pride aside, how should we interpret the other vices?"
The reason the Archbishops had gathered to debate was none other than the content of the recently published Xenon Biography. In the latest volume, high-ranking demon officers appeared, and Isaac had introduced the concept of the 'Seven Deadly Sins' through them.
On Earth, this would have been a common trope to be overlooked without a second thought, but here, it was different. The concept of the Seven Deadly Sins was enough to deliver a profound shock to the clergy.
The precise categorization of sin into seven types was surprising enough, but the real issue was that these vices weren't limited to humans—they applied to every race.
The concept of the Seven Deadly Sins provided the priests of this world with a framework—a paradigm, so to speak. While countless theologians had presented various theories over the years, none were as universally convincing as the Seven Deadly Sins.
Furthermore, if Xenon Biography were just any ordinary novel, it might have been ignored, but its impact on the world was so immense that it naturally commanded attention.
"However, I wonder if it is truly wise to adopt concepts from a novel... We have no way of knowing how deep this author's knowledge of theology actually is."
Of course, not all opinions were positive. Some raised the valid point of whether it was right to apply concepts from a work of fiction directly to an academic field.
Their concerns were reasonable, but...
"Then, Archbishop Hans, can you present a concept as definitive as the Seven Deadly Sins?"
"...I cannot."
"We understand your concerns, Archbishop Hans. It is true that the author might not even be a member of the clergy. However, it is clear he has conducted profound research. If he hadn't, he never could have presented the Seven Deadly Sins."
Almost every objection was countered.
While the influence of Xenon Biography played a part, the concept itself was so fresh that they had convinced themselves of a certain 'truth': that the author of Xenon Biography was as well-versed in theology as he was experienced in life.
Adding to this, people presumed the author to be an elderly sage—not a green youth under the age of twenty like Isaac.
From Isaac's perspective, he had simply borrowed a setting that was useful in his previous life, but to these people, it was nothing short of a new paradigm. It was only natural for them to be flustered, as a concept he considered common knowledge had become the catalyst for shaking the very foundations of theology.
"Furthermore, this concept of the Seven Deadly Sins should not be confined to our Luminous Order alone. It is only right that it be applied to the very concept of theology itself."
"Are you suggesting we should conduct joint research with other orders?"
One of the Archbishops frowned, expressing his displeasure. As the Luminous Order was the largest, it contained a diverse range of people, and it wasn't uncommon for some to harbor a dislike for other denominations.
On the surface, they maintained good relations with other orders. The Luminous Order was simply the largest; it didn't mean the other orders were weak.
The elderly man leading the discussion shook his head at the Archbishop's complaint.
"No. For now, it is best that we conduct the research within our own Order. We do not yet know how the Mora or Hirt orders will react."
"Hmm... Understood. Then, what do you intend to do about finding this author?"
The Archbishop asked if they were going to track down Isaac, the author of Xenon Biography. The lead Archbishop lowered his gaze, lost in thought.
Though it was based on a misunderstanding, Isaac was the one who had provided the framework they had found so elusive. In his heart, the Archbishop wanted to find him immediately and ask for the precise definitions of the Seven Deadly Sins.
But at the very least, he couldn't do that now—not after reading about the author's health in the newspapers.
"Not for the time being. I hear his health is poor; visiting him now might only place an unnecessary burden on him."
"Ah, you mean the blood found on the manuscript? He said it was just a simple nosebleed."
While the introduction of the Seven Deadly Sins had caused a massive stir, people were even more concerned about the author's health as reported by the publisher.
Blood had been found on the submitted manuscript, and while it was claimed to be a mere nosebleed, there were deep concerns regarding the author's well-being.
In a way, it was a trivial matter, but because he was the author of Xenon Biography, people couldn't help but worry.
"Artists are known for neglecting their bodies and overworking themselves. It's not uncommon for them to collapse from exhaustion after painting or writing for days and nights on end."
"Is that so? I wouldn't know, not being an artist myself."
Indeed, many artists frequently ruined their health by immersing themselves in their work. Their sleep schedules would flip, and their physical strength would wane as they neglected exercise.
Isaac was writing purely as a 'hobby,' so he was in a relatively flexible position, but recently, the pressure had caused him to push himself too hard. Fortunately, he was feeling better now, thanks to the comfort of his family.
"In any case, it would be wise to begin redefining our doctrines before more information regarding the Seven Deadly Sins is released. We won't be able to hear a more accurate theory unless we meet the author in person."
"Understood. By the way, do you know how the Elves are reacting? Since the sin of Pride was represented by an Elf, I expect there to be some response."
At the Archbishop's question, the old man leading the discussion chuckled.
"They're likely trying to find him right now. He hit a sore spot, considering they completely ruined themselves during the Race War because of their own pride."
*
Since Volume 9 hit the world, everyone has been buzzing about the Seven Deadly Sins. They're saying things like it's a new paradigm that has accelerated theological research, or that sins have never been categorized so specifically before.
For me, the reaction was completely unexpected. I just brought over the Seven Deadly Sins concept that was so common in my previous life; the whole situation was absurd.
But even more ridiculous was the article the publisher put out worrying about my health. Apparently, seeing the nosebleed on the manuscript made them deeply concerned for my well-being.
On top of that, because artists have a reputation for completing their masterpieces at the cost of their own bodies, people started speculating wildly. Various theories flew around, but the crowning achievement was the rumor that I was terminally ill.
As I mentioned before, readers assume I'm an elderly sage, and combined with that, they think I don't have much time left to live.
I could only marvel at their delusion, transforming a healthy 17-year-old with a bright future into a terminal patient, but there was something more important right now.
"Isaac. You're really okay, right?"
"What's wrong? I told you, I'm perfectly fine."
I swallowed the food in my mouth and looked at Cecile, who was sitting across from me. I could see her beautiful face filled with worry and anxiety.
Since those rumors—or rather, 'leaks'—started circulating, the frequency of Cecile's worrying had increased significantly. While she used to just watch me with anxious eyes when we were with others, now that we were alone, she asked me outright.
The two of us were currently eating a meal at the school cafeteria. Lina had left early, claiming she was busy, and Mari didn't share this class with us.
She really suspects me.
Last time it was just a guess, but seeing Cecile's reaction now, I was certain. She suspects I am the author of Xenon Biography.
The fact that she asked such a question the moment an article expressing concern for my health came out made it undeniable. I looked at her, unable to hide her concern, and spoke in my characteristically blunt voice.
"Where do I look sick? I'm perfectly fine."
"I'm just making sure. Have you had a nosebleed recently?"
"No."
Why don't you just ask me directly? I barely managed to suppress a hollow laugh.
Still, it didn't feel bad to have a beauty as stunning as Cecile personally worrying about me. In fact, knowing she cared about my health made me feel quite at ease.
However, I didn't think it was a good idea to let this topic continue. So, I set my utensils down for a moment and asked her.
"By the way, Cecile, did you read Volume 9? I heard it's a bit better this time because they released a massive amount of copies."
"Of course I read it. I bought the very last copy left in the bookstore. What about you, Isaac?"
"I read the one you bought for me."
Normally, every new volume of Xenon Biography sells out within a day. Last time, it even set a new record(?) by selling out in less than half a day.
The publisher, well aware of this, had released a massive quantity from the start this time. I heard they introduced some new technology, though I'm not sure what it is.
Anyway, thanks to that, Volume 9 of Xenon Biography was easy to find. Even if it sold out that day, more books would be stacked up two days later, so anyone with enough patience could buy one.
"Then you know about the Seven Deadly Sins?"
Cecile's dark expression vanished at my answer, replaced by a bright smile. As expected, a bright expression suited her best.
"Of course I do."
"Do you also know about the officer in charge of Lust?"
Cecile's red eyes sparkled as she questioned me. I nodded in affirmation.
At that, her lips curled into a slight smile, and she rested her chin on one hand. That single movement exuded a subtle sensuality, and the atmosphere turned peculiar in an instant.
Then, Cecile stared at me with an enchanting gaze and spoke quietly. Her voice was alluring, as if her previous worry for my health had never existed.
"Her name was Lilith, right? A descendant of succubi and a member of the demon race who became a demon."
"Yes."
"Black hair down to her waist and red eyes. The description said her voice was full of sensuality. She had a voluptuous figure, too. But..."
Cecile trailed off for a moment, then spoke in a suggestive, casual tone.
"It might just be my imagination, but every time I see that description, I can't help but think of myself."