Divine Mask: I Have Numerous God Clones

Zeus strode purposefully toward the two-star smithy, his mind sharp and focused on the task at hand. As he walked, he mentally reached out to the system, seeking its insight on the blueprint for the golem.

"Hey, system, have you already whipped up a good golem blueprint?" Zeus inquired, his tone direct but calm.

[Whipped up?] The system's voice dripped with mock indignation. [Of course, I've crafted a masterpiece. Even though it's just a one-star golem, it's far beyond what anyone else could dream of making at your level.] The system's voice carried an unmistakable air of pride, as if daring anyone to question its capabilities.

Zeus chuckled softly, amused by the system's arrogance. "Alright, alright. I get it. But this is just the start, right?"

[Naturally!] the system declared, its tone shifting to one of almost patronizing confidence. [This one-star golem is merely the beginning of your empire, my mighty Lucas. Sure, it won't absorb mana—]

The system paused for dramatic effect, [but in exchange, you get a body that's practically indestructible. How many people can say they have a golem like that?]

Zeus nodded thoughtfully, seeing the logic behind the system's words. "So, I can use this golem as my clone, to keep up appearances as Lucas at home while I take care of other things as Zeus?"

[Precisely! I must say, you're catching on quickly,] the system replied, its tone laced with mock surprise, as if Zeus's understanding was somehow unexpected. [But really, can you blame me for coming up with such a brilliant plan?] It added with a haughty laugh.

Zeus smirked, shaking his head in amusement. "You really do love to gloat, don't you?"

[Well, when you're as perfect as I am, it's only natural,] the system responded, its voice practically preening with self-satisfaction. [But jokes aside, I have to admit, you've got a good head on your shoulders for recognizing greatness when you see it.]

Zeus rolled his eyes, though a smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth. Despite the system's arrogance, he had other, more pressing concerns.

The thought of creating a divine mask for the golem gnawed at him—it was going to be an agonizing process, and the idea of enduring that level of pain again was far from appealing.

The system, always quick to offer its own brand of wisdom, chimed in. [Pain? Why bother with that? You could just make a divine mask for appearances' sake, couldn't you?] Its tone was dismissive, as if the solution was obvious and Zeus was simply overcomplicating things.

Zeus shook his head slightly, his expression resolute. "Of course not," he muttered, half to himself, half to the system. "This golem, which will act as Lucas, needs to be more than just a decoy. It has to be strong—strong enough to survive in this cutthroat environment."

He sighed, the weight of his responsibilities pressing on him. "The Celestial Academy is the best academy out there, and the competition here is brutal. If this clone gets killed, my sister will be furious. And not just that—she might become so enraged that it puts her in danger."

He paused, the full implications of what he was saying settling over him. "And if I just 'miraculously' come back to life unscathed, it won't take long before someone starts asking the wrong questions. My secret could be exposed."

Zeus's eyes narrowed with determination. "That's why I need to use the Void Core Divine Scripture. You said it's the top defensive scripture out there, right? If I combine that with a strong body, at least the clone won't be easily killed."

The system, usually quick with a quip or a smug remark, seemed almost contemplative for a moment. [I see. You really do think things through, don't you? Sharp mind, indeed.]

The words were delivered with a touch of grudging respect, though the system couldn't help but follow up with a more familiar, cocky tone. [Then again, with me guiding you, it's no wonder you're making the right decisions.]

Zeus couldn't resist a smirk, a glimmer of pride flashing in his eyes. "Of course, I am the mighty Lucas, after all," he replied, his voice carrying a mix of confidence and a hint of humor.

The system chuckled, a sound that was both pleased and slightly mocking. [Now that's the spirit. Just remember, while you might be mighty, I'm the genius behind the curtain. But together, we're unstoppable.]

Zeus's smirk widened as he approached the entrance to the two-star smithy, his plan firmly in place. Despite the challenges ahead, he felt ready—ready to endure the pain, to craft his first golem clone, and to protect everything that mattered to him.

With a determined glint in his eyes, Zeus retrieved the card the clerk had given him. "Time to get to work," he muttered to himself, sliding the card into the slot.

The lock clicked, and the heavy door groaned open, revealing a sight that made his heart race—a blacksmith's paradise straight out of a legend.

The room was a craftsman's dream, with a sturdy anvil taking center stage, a massive hammer suspended nearby, and a colossal burner glowing fiercely in the corner.

The warm, fiery light cast dancing shadows across the walls, while the air was thick with the rich, metallic scent of molten ore. It was a place where metal met magic—a perfect blend of raw power and skilled craftsmanship.

As Zeus stepped further inside, he felt the fire mana in the room wash over him like a tidal wave. It was almost tangible, vibrating with potential, and it sent a thrill through his veins. He took a deep breath, feeling the energy seep into him, fueling his ambition.

He paused for a moment, absorbing the atmosphere, then allowed a slow, confident smile to spread across his face.

"This... this is perfect," he murmured, his voice carrying a note of anticipation. He could almost hear the future echoing back at him—the clash of metal, the roar of the forge, the birth of something powerful.

The system's voice broke into his thoughts, slightly teasing. [Don't get too carried away, now. This is just the beginning.]

Zeus chuckled softly, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Beginning or not, it's a damn good start," he replied, his tone laced with determination. He rolled up his sleeves, ready to dive into the work ahead. "Let's start," he whispered, his voice steady, the weight of his next move hanging in the air.