Hello. I have some doubts about this chapter. I don't think it's uninteresting, but I think I dwell on details for too long. The story moves too slowly. I should probably speed up the writing. We will see that later.
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A NEW HOPE
The Flame Dragon had vanished in the distance while the giant that had scared the monster away, had also disappeared, returning to the adjacent dimensional plane he had come from.
From then on, the situation took an unexpected turn. In fact, Amiek had simply recreated the bodies of the dead and healed the wounded. He had not made them any younger but any natural imperfections, such as genetic diseases, or age-related diseases had been corrected as well as some latent cell disorders such as cancer. The greatest "miracle" was a child who, clearly mentally retarded, was now completely normal.
Even if it means recreating things, it is better to recreate them with all the faults corrected.
In the eyes of the resuscitated it was a miracle…. And when the other villagers realized the granted "blessings", suddenly in a surge of a new religious faith… They wanted to benefit too.
No one had realized that the "young man" in the strange purple vehicle and the armored giant were in fact the same person. Which was to be expected since the Celestial human body had remained in the vehicle while his actual body kicked into action. Celestials also have the capacity of ubiquity and can exist in many places in different forms at the same time.
However, everyone understood that there was a connection between the two. The boy was without a doubt the God's Apostle…. The Celestials Apostle, since he wished to be known that way and it was surely him who had called his God to save them. He was not a mere apprentice magician as they had first believed him to be.
Strangely enough, they were absolutely right all along.
All the villagers wanted to thank him and, while not all were willing to convert, they all wanted to receive "Amiek's blessing."
In other words, they all wanted to be healed of their health problems like the dead had been.
This did not surprise the Celestial. It was the very nature of religious faith. People pray to one or more Gods in the hope of getting something. Long life, prosperity, love, protection, help with business or whatever, afterlife, saving a loved one etc…. Few people pray to a God whose religion claims he will never do anything for them.
All these people who approached, who smiled, their looks…. Made the Celestial extremely uncomfortable.
Nonetheless, Amiek agreed to [correct their disability/give blessings/cure their health problems] to everyone as someone in front of a supermarket hands out promotional fliers.
It wasn't boring but repetitive. All the villagers came to see him and asked for his blessing. They [bowed/kneeled/gave thanks before him]. Amiek passed her hand over their heads, and immediately people felt great and left. An old kneel healed, fewer teeth that had grown back, a lingering cough that was gone, or a limp that was healed. Such was [the blessing/the cure/the gift offered to the faithful] of the Celestial Amiek through his Apostle Amiek.
It was a little strange that the God had the same name as the Apostle, but people assumed that the Apostle must have given up his birth name and used his god's name in his honor.
With each blessing, people offered a gift as a thank you. As much out of gratitude as out of…. faith.
Normally Amiek would have refused the gifts because [they didn't help him achieve his goals/they were of no use/he didn't know what to do with them]. But [the dilation of the pupil/the wet in their eyes/the eyes] of these people, the happy sound of their voices…. He felt compelled to agree. Embarrassment and shyness were strange experiences to discover.
However, he remained [indifferent/he didn't show interest/he didn't notice] the looks some girls (and two boys) from the village were giving him.
Except the way in which three individuals were interested in him, did not escape him. The Forest Elf, the Apostle, and the Homo mysticae he had met earlier. These girls [had a goal/expressed intentions/wanted something]. The Celestial was well aware of this. It just remained to determine what and what to do with it.
In fact, for the moment, Rory, Tuka and Lelei would have simply wanted to have a conversation with Amiek. A LONG conversation but they could tell he wasn't available. Never mind. They would wait until they were alone with him, when the villagers were gone. They preferred to have a "private audience".
Colt meanwhile was relieved to know that the Dragon would no longer return to his lands. He was sincerely sorry for those who would pay the price elsewhere, but at least his own city was spared. He had other concerns, however.
When all the blessings were distributed and night began to fall, the "private audiences" began. The Celestial was sitting close to a campfire, pondering over the pile of gifts he had received and…. Savoring the heat of the fire on his "skin". It was [soothing/heartwarming/felt good]. Amiek had ordered the Count to sort it out and only let "interesting" people pass.
The first was Caspio, the mayor of the village.
"So how are you ? As mayor I know how exhausting it can be to be the center of attention at a village festival."
"[My operating parameters are fully operational/This body is undamaged/Everything is fine] thank you. However, I admit that I have a little problem to solve."
"Really ? What can I help you with ?"
"[Define the function of/what is the point of/What am I supposed to do with this]?" Amiek asked, waving in front of the mayor, a little pig that one of the resurrected peasants had given him.
"Well…. Do what you want with it. In general, it is used to be eaten. It is a beautiful offering."
"A offering? I understand the notion of gratitude and even that of faith, but [This excess is no improvement/This is disproportionate/Haven't they done a little too much?] They need these…. [lifeforms/wnimals/cattle], more than I," replied the Celestial, indicating the pile of presents he had been given. Haystack, kitchen utensils, jar of milk, smoked meat etc….
"Oh excuse me. We do not know the rites proper to the religion of your God. However, we know that all Gods ask for offerings from time to time. We don't have any gold, so we donate what we can. This farmer made a great leap of faith."
"Celestials are nod Gods [I am puzzled/This is absurd/Uh….] All of this is not necessary."
"It's as much for them as it is for you. Many of my fellow citizens WANT to embrace the New God… Celestial religion. This farmer is not the only one. You have heard them yourself. Almost everyone the God Amiek has raised wants to swear their faith to him. They just don't know how. They expect you to give them directions, explain the rites, teach them the prayers and what exactly your Celestial represents and what he expects from his worshipers. They want to know the origins, the legends of your Celestial. What did he do when he was an Apostle? What God was he serving then? Was he a disciple of Duncan? That would explain his armor since he's not Emroy."
Caspio took a whiff of his pipe.
"Besides, for some of them, especially for the risen, today was a revelation and I believe that when you have explained the rites of the new religion, they will want to be the first to build a temple in your honor. Perhaps they will even create a town if the Count allows it."
"Isn't this all [a rash decision/a little excessive/completely delusional]? In fact, I have already explained that Celestials are not Gods. They [do not ask/are indifferent/it is useless] to worship them".
An Apostle who declares that his God is not a God and that he does not wish to be worshiped was a surprise to the mayor of Coda. However, he was old enough to know that sometimes things are not as they seem and that the Gods do as they please anyway.
"You are an Apostle but you were once human, so you should be able to understand. For those that your…. Celestial brought to life again, this is more than a revelation. It's a holy day, a new start in their life, a second chance. Maybe it will even usher in a new calendar. It doesn't matter whether Amiek is a God or a giant wizard. He snatched them from Hardy's clutches, he chased the Flame Dragon away like a fly. Some are ready to die…. Or to kill, for him. By faith and even by love. Do you not yourself have a similar faith in your "Celestial"? Why else would he have chosen you as his Apostle?"
Again, even though Caspio was wrong about a lot of things, he was still right in a way. Amiek's human body was the Avatar, in his Celestial essence, but he could be considered in many ways as an Apostle. He obeyed the superior directives of the Host Celestial, a relationship similar to that which the Apostles and the Gods of Falmart seemed to share. Besides, just like the Apostles of this world he was evolving to someday become something greater than he was now.
[A member of the Host Celestial/an adult/a successful being].
"The Celestials do not ask for [blind reverence/faith/obedience] from anyone. Their prayers are unnecessary. The gratitude of the villagers, however, is…. Appreciated."
"You do not understand. It doesn't just depend on you or your God. These people NEED to believe something. They were dead. Their Gods, supposed to protect them, had abandoned them, in their eyes. But your Celestial saved them. They and their families. They can't go back to their old faith."
"Are you sure you [don't amplify/oversize/exaggerate a bit]?"
"The pig in your arms is the best proof of that."
"Groink" said the pig.
"You see ? He agrees with me," the mayor said with a smile.
Amiek wasn't convinced the pig understood the conversation, but even though he was a Celestial, what argument could he have against the growls of an animal? He was in doubt. Was this what humans call "a joke" or "the ridiculous"?
"Hmm ... perhaps it was a [miscalculated course of action/inaccurate approach to the problem/mistake] to reveal his Celestial form." Thought Amiek.
In fact, the pig just wanted to be put back on the floor.
"Anyway, I suggest we talk about this again tomorrow. Sleep on it. People will have made up their minds on what to do and then you will decide."
Caspio left, leaving Amiek to his thoughts, until someone else came to see him.
" Well…. Good evening. Lo…. Lord Amiek." Tuka said, coming out of the shadows to approach, her voice filled with apprehension.
"Good evening."
It was interesting to learn those [linguistic specificity/mode of communication/polite expressions] which were totally unnecessary but which the social cohesion required. "Hello", "good evening", "thank you" etc…. The Celestials don't care about that sort of thing. In language the mortal mind cannot understand, [they state facts/give directions/make decisions/confront theories] but politeness or decorum are concepts they study to understand the social functioning of species. That interest them, but they do not use these concepts themselves.
"I wanted to talk to you." Said the young Elf timidly.
"I am listening to you."
"First, I wanted to thank you for saving me. I'm sorry to have you… yelling at you. I was in shock. I…. Finally, I want to say I'm sorry."
Perhaps Amiek could have genuinely enjoyed Tuka's apology, even if he didn't hold it against her, but he guessed that the young girl hadn't come to talk to him just to apologize. She had a purpose.
"Excuses accepted. What do you want ?"
" Me ? But I…. I do not want anything."
"So why are you here?"
"Well to thank you and let you know that I was sorry for today. However ... However, there is one question I would like to ask you."
"What question ?"
"Earlier you told me, that I was a "Āīlo͞ovǣn", an "Eternal". You said my people and I were not allowed to die. That it was impossible. What did you mean by that?"
It was the best question Tuka could ask. [Contrary to his wishes/regrets/Unfortunately] for her, Amiek felt that he could not share this information with her at this time. Her people had been [altered/transformed/had undergone modification] and until this mystery was cleared up, or they received direction, they preferred to keep this a secret.
"I can't tell you right now."
"Why ?"
"I have to myself [determine some things before/my information is incomplete/a mystery needs to be cleared up]"
"Can't you ask your God?"
"I think you misunderstand some things. I have [An alternative/a proposal/I offer you a contract] to purpose to you, similar to the one made to the Count."
Tuka, of course, was interested. She didn't know what the proposal was, but it was a start. She would do anything to gain the favor of the God Amiek. To start by winning the favor of his Apostle was a good start. If she played her cards well…. So she had a chance to resuscitate the inhabitants of her village.
"I…. I am listening to you." She replied, uncertain but also hopeful.
"I want you to lend me your body."
"….. I beg your pardon ?" Tuka asked widening her eyes, hoping she had misunderstood.
"I need to [conduct some experiments/treat/see if your condition can be cured]."
This answer did not reassure the young Elf, on the contrary.
"Healed? But I am not sick."
"[You are altered/changed/You are not as you should be]".
"I do not understand. I was born this way and I grew up this way so why should I be any different?"
"Your nature has been [altered/changed/degraded]. I need to determine if these changes can be undone. You are an "eternal".
"Is that…. Is that Amiek's will?"
"Yes."
Tuka was now in doubt. It was all too sudden. How far was she willing to go? She would do anything for her people, but for a God she didn't know this morning? If that was her only hope…. But was it really a hope?
Her anxieties subsided as that feeling of "trusting" and "everything will be fine" came back to her again.
"In return, I [would communicate/share/inform you of] my findings with you." Added the Celestial.
It wasn't quite what the young Elf wanted but a for the moment, some explanation and some answers, would be good enough. Tuka understood that her people COULD be resurrected, but she wasn't sure it would happen FOR SURE. So she wanted to proceed step by step, determine each action. The Apostle said she was not as she should be, that her people were not allowed to die. Understanding why and perhaps how to fix it was her first goal.
For this she had to begin by learning the paths of the Lord of Life and his Apostle. If the price was to donate her body…. So be it. It was a price she was prepared to pay after second thoughts.
"So…. I accept." She said half-heartedly.
"Good. We will [start doing it/explore possibilities/start testing] when we get back to Alnus. First I need to get specific material to do the [analyzes/experiments/tests]. Have no fear it is painless and absolutely safe."
These words troubled Tuka. She wasn't sure she understood. When the Apostle asked for her body, she thought he wanted…. Satisfy his instincts. Now he was talking about her like…. As…. Like what exactly? She didn't know and it scared her. Once again the worry dissipated because of this feeling that "everything would be fine."
The young Elf, of course, couldn't have known that this feeling was programmed into her as in all of the Eternals. They couldn't attack Celestials and even had to obey them if needed. This part of her eternal nature had not been altered.
Tuka politely greeted the emissary of her new God and left. As she walked away, she pondered what had just happened.
She had spent hours thinking and considering all the possibilities of the conversation and knowing what to answer based on the questions that presented themselves. None of these questions had been asked or answered. NOTHING had happened the way she had imagined.
The real question she wanted to ask was, "Will Lord Amiek resurrect my people too?" Has the time for the great judgment and then the promised blessing come?"
She hadn't dared to ask, fearing to commit sacrilege by expressing her doubts.
She had thought that by showing devotion she could more easily "tame" the Apostle. She knew she was an attractive young girl, and the Apostles were not known for their abstinence from earthly pleasures. On the contrary, the rumor was that they always took every opportunity to experience pleasure because one day, when they became Gods, it would be much more difficult for them as they would have to inhabit a human body then. A body that, at best, wouldn't be the one they had grown used to.
But this Apostle there…. Was weird. He didn't seem interested in carnal pleasure. Certainly when he asked her to lend him her body, Tuka might pretend not to know what he meant, deep down she knew very well. She had even hoped for it in a way while hoping it wouldn't come to this, but he had spoken not of…. Do what a man and a woman do most of the time in this kind of situation, but rather experiment on it.
Experiment? WHAT experiences? For…. transform her what she "should" be? This idea was frightening. There were too many unknowns.
Maybe she hadn't understood the situation at all and was making a terrible mistake?
Yet whenever her anxieties got too strong, they suddenly disappeared, replaced by a strong sense of trust and faith. She "knew" that she was making the right decision.
Even though she didn't know why.
Amiek was perfectly aware of the phenomenon. The Eternals of the various planets in the universe were [genetically rearranged/modified specifically for needs/designed in different ways] to achieve varying results. Tuka's ancestors had received a "directive" ordering them to [don't question/never disapprove/always trust] the Celestials, even if the Celestials decided to exterminate them.
It was standard procedure, Amiek [didn't mind/found it perfectly natural/it was natura order].
-0-
Moments later, after Tuka left, another young girl approached the Celestial.
"I see you are available now. Perfect. You and I have things to say to each other !" Rory Mercury said.
The Apostle had waited all day instead of walking past everyone. First, Rory Mercury wanted to observe Amiek's attitude towards the villagers. The religious fervor that had gripped them towards their new God annoyed her, but after all, as long as it didn't involve Emroy, it was none of her business. Basically, it was not that different from the demi-humans who worshiped the Gods of their ancestors. Until she received a specific order, these people were free to believe whatever they wanted after all.
Emroy is not a jealous God anyway. The question does not interest him. It's the actions that count, not the prayers. She was pleasantly surprised, however, to find that Amiek, although he was willing to give the blessings, didn't seem to get excited about it.
Oddly enough, his healing power even had an intoxicating scent. After all, death feasts on life.
Besides, Rory was planning on having a real conversation with Amiek. It might take a long time. So she could afford to go last because, when it was her turn, she would take her time.
"What do you want to talk about ?" Amiek asked.
The coming of the Apostle was foreseen. After showing her form earlier he suspected she would come to ask questions.
"You and your "Celestial" there, WHAT are you exactly?"
"We are the Celestials".
Rory cocked her head and put a hand on her face in exasperation.
"This is not what I mean. What are you? An Apostle like me? No you are different. And what was the giant earlier? How did he appear like that? Where did he go? What are your intentions? Besides, WHAT is a Celestial?"
If Tuka had decided to take her business with Amiek step by step in the hope of a better chance of success, Rory, shen wanted answers now. She felt she had been patient enough.
Amiek [saw no objection/agreed to provide an explanation/was more than happy to respond] to the Apostle. She was a very rare and unlike mortal specimen. Seeing the reactions of the immortals [would help collect new data/be instructive/provide useful information]. However, since Rory was not a mere mortal, he was unaware of the effects that [a class 1 psychic probing/prolonged mental intrusion/deep reading of her mind] would have on her and he did not want to take the risk yet.
So he gave up on the idea of using the same method he had used for Colt when he asked the same question when he had chosen the Coun from the captives to explore beyond the Gate.
Simple [auditory information/basic communication/verbal responses] would suffice.
"I am Amiek. The representative of the Celestial host. I have come to gather information [in relation to/about/regarding] Falmart. Celestials explore, learn, transform lives. They judge, they approve, they modify or they condemn."
Actually no. Verbal responses were not enough. More than an hour passed and Rory didn't feel like she knew more than at first.
"How many Celestial are there?"
"Each Celestial is unique but innumerable (the Celestials exist simultaneously in multiple realities in infinite numbers but in addition they have the gift of ubiquity)."
"Who is your leader?"
"The one who [sets goals/coordinates actions/directs] the Celestial Host is "the one above all". "
"That's not an answer".
"This is [his name/his designation/his function]. There is no other".
"Did you come here to make war?"
"The Celestials don't wage war. [They administer/They reconfigure/They change the order of things]".
And this way of using several words to say the same thing but not quite, it was quite annoying.
"Very good. I want to talk to your God. Is he listening to us now?"
"The Celestials are not Gods."
"RRAAAAAHHHH ! I AM TALKING ABOUT THE ARMORED GIANT THAT APPEARED THIS AFTERNOON !"
"It's not a God. This is the Celestial Amiek." Amiek replied completely unfazed at Rory's cries, when any Falmartian would have been terrified.
"Yeah, well, okay. He's the one I'm talking about. Besides, why do you have the same name?"
"We are one."
Logic. An Apostle and his God are united by bonds stronger than anything. You can say, in a way, that they are one.
"So if you're one, he's listening to me right now?"
"Yes."
"Can he answer me?"
"Yes."
"So I want to know what his intentions are."
"[I/we/him and I] are just fulfilling our mission. Observation, analysis, experimentation."
"Experimentation ? What kind of experimentation?"
"[Level 5 genetic reverse engineering/multiple vector analysis of metaphysical dimensions/observation of societal variables in multiple environments]".
Despite their incredible powers of regeneration, the Apostles could do nothing against headache. It was the drop of water that broke the camel's back. The worst part being that Rory felt that Amiek was sincere. He wasn't trying to laugh at her. He wasn't lying either. He was just…. Incomprehensible.
In fact, Amiek could have provided an easier explanation for Emroy's Apostle to understand, but simple verbal communication would have been incomplete. In fact, he [had decided/chosen/it was his will] that since Rory represented one of the major powers on this world, he preferred that she stay with him for the time being. Through it, [the metaphysical intelligences/more evolved entities/Gods] of this world would clearly learn what the Celestials were and what they should prepare for when they will arrive. If they were [realistic/reasonable/able to resign themselves], they would understand the pointlessness of a confrontation, which would facilitate the goals of the Celestials.
"Come with me to Alnus."
"I beg your pardon ?"
"You want information. Come with me to Alnus. You will [receive the information/get your questions answered/see for yourself]. You will understand much better."
Rory was planning to go to Alnus anyway. It was even her mission, in fact. Eventually things were working out. She could see for herself, and Emroy could see through her eyes as well as the Gods of Falmart by extension.
"I accept your proposal." She said simply as she got ready to leave.
"By the way, one more question. Why is Count Colt with you?"
"[The Count/Colt Formal/He] has accepted [a deal/transaction/exchange of services with me]. In return for his help in [apprehending nature/understanding/interacting with the species and societies of] this world, all his wishes will be fulfilled, as long as they do not interfere with my mission."
"What do you mean by "all his wishes will be fulfilled"? Rory asked like she wasn't sure she understood correctly.
"I [imply that/means/explain] whatever the Coun asks, will come true. Anything his mind can imagine, the Celestials can [allow the acquisition of/achieve/give it]."
Rory couldn't believe her ears.
"And what did he ask?"
"[His requests were modest/Little/almost nothing]. He called for the lives of soldiers to be spared. He also asked [to be telepathically connected/to be put in touch/to talk to his daughter in the evening]. Other than that he made no wishes whatsoever. This is [Curious/unusual/amazing from a human]. He could ask to become a God. It would be granted to him."
Rory reassessed her interlocutor. Wouldn't he be crazy? Simply ? Not only was his language incomprehensible at times, but now he was just talking nonsense.
She was ready to admit that these…. "Celestials" were powerful. They had gigantic magical powers since they could resuscitate the dead, but they were beings made of matter, not spirit beings like the Gods. They declared themselves not to be Gods but Amiek said he could turn a human into a god?
It didn't make any logical sense.
Should she treat Amiek with respect if he was crazy? Normally that's what Emroy's religion advocated but this was a special case.
For her, the Gods are rarely generous. They keep the world order, sometimes they do mortals a few favors, though rarely, but "granting every wish" is an alien concept for them. Humans MUST obey the Gods to keep the world in balance. Receiving a divine mission is the greatest honor that can be bestowed upon a mortal apart from becoming an Apostle. In doing so, they can, eventually, see one of their desire fulfilled. Like this man unhappy in love who, after having served Mirittia, was rewarded by the goddess who directed his steps towards the woman who suited him best. Today all kinds of scribes and poets still extol this story, which has become a children's tale.
Rory herself had blessed Grassac by allowing him to assist her in her present mission. When the time came, she would kill him and he would appear in the Hall of Glory before Emroy. At that point, he would have "completed his training" and became an excellent offering to the God of war. He would have a seat in Emroy's Grand Arena. A place in the midst of an eternal war, an endless war. A place where the fighters die and then get up to continue the fight before feasting in the evening by praising their exploits. A paradise for warriors.
So Rory walked away, satisfied and unsatisfied. For the moment at least. She was to have a conversation with Grassac. The mission that her God had entrusted to her would undoubtedly be much more difficult than expected and she would need to prepare her…. "Assistant", as it should be. This matter went beyond human limits and now became the problem of the Gods. Grassac should observe certain rules, avoid doing certain silly things. She didn't know what kind of beings the Celestials were, but she didn't want Grassac going to do a monumental blunder at the worst possible time.
"Either way, I would know the truth once I got to Alnus", Rory thought.
-0-
Now that Rory was gone, a third person, who had patiently waited her turn, approached the Celestial by the fireside.
"Excuse me. I hope I not disturbing you? Could I talk to you for a few minutes?" Lelei asked.
"Yes".
A real human being would, no doubt, have been tired, but Amiek was there to learn everything he could. The opportunity to speak to Emroy's Apostle, and now to Homo Mysticae, were opportunities to gain insightful information.
Lelei sat up and looked Amiek straight in the eye.
"Come to think of it, I didn't told you my name. You saved my life though. I am Lelei La Lalena and I thank you again for your intervention."
"[It's nothing/there is not use/it was the logical thing to do]"
"It's not nothing. If you didn't, I would have lost everything I care about. I do not know how to show you my gratitude".
"Gratitude accepted."
Lelei was sincere in her gratitude, however it also made her uncomfortable as she had a favor to ask.
"On the other hand, I must admit that if I come to see you it is also because I want to know something"
"What ?"
"You are not Amiek's Apostle. You are Amiek himself, or part of him isn't it?"
This statement sparked growing interest from the Celestial.
"Explain."
"I have watched the giant and yourself closely. There are signs that never lie. First, you have the exact same name. I don't think that's a mark of respect for him because it would be too confusing. The flows around you both are exactly the same. At first I thought it was about the nature of the connection between a God and his Apostle, but Amiek says he is not a God but a "Celestial." I admit I overheard your conversation with Rory Mercury as well. If your way of speaking is interpreted correctly, although it is difficult to understand at times, it seemed pretty clear to me. You and Amiek are one and the same person you say. You might think you are one because you are related, but in fact you are one because you are the same person, simply. But which one are you really? The giant in armor, or the young man I'm looking at right now?"
The Celestial was… surprised. He hadn't envisioned that anyone other than Colt would realize the truth. These life forms had not yet reached the evolutionary, or even technological, threshold that would allow them to make the connection.
Maybe he had underestimated these humans again after all?
At first, Amiek had simply viewed Lelei as a passing curiosity, a mere human with limited knowledge of mysticism. However, there may have been more to consider now.
"To answer your question, neither. What you call "the giant in armor" is a simple envelope of restraint, which allows to act physically on the material plane. The [hydro carbon construction/entity/young man] in front of you is a communication interface to interact at your level. [Assertion/Deduction/In other words], both are "the real me" and neither."
It was relaxing talking with Lelei. Although having the same human limitations as the others, she was noticeably smarter, calmer, more…. open-minded.
Although she did not understand everything, Lelei understood that the Celestial was not "material" in the traditional sense of the term, but that, like the Gods of Sadera, he embodied in one physical form or another…. in multiple places simultaneously, if he wanted.
It was more complex than that but it was the best that a human could understand and it was not wrong though imprecise. It would have been more accurate to say that the Celestial existed "metaphysically" within the armor and that the human body was a "physical" embodiment.
Lelei had the same questions as Rory as to the intentions of the "Celestial" but having heard the conversation, the young magician found it unnecessary to ask the same questions again. So she decided to get straight to the part that interested her.
"I want to learn."
A simple but concise statement… [helping the goals of/who had approves of/was pleaant] to Amiek.
"What do you want to learn?"
"Anything that can be learned. I walk on the voice of knowledge and wisdom. I have to learn all I can. This is my role."
"[Define/explain/please give me more information] please."
"I am a magician's apprentice. I worship the twin Gods Ral and Elange, the Gods of knowledge. Learning, understanding, studying, discovering and progressing are the goal of my existence. You are the strangest thing I have seen. You are a change to everything I already know. So I need to know more. Every time I learn something new, I am happy and become more than what I am."
Amiek didn't need to think about his answer as the decision was so obvious.
"[It will be granted/Request confirmed/I accept]. Come with me to Alnus and you will have a lot to learn. However, I have [an obligation/a condition/there is a prerequisite to which you will have to agree]."
"What…. What is it ?"
"[Move this life form to a suitable location/Take this creature to safety/Get rid of this for me] and provide for its needs." The celestial declared, handing the pig, which was sniffing his leg, to Lelei.
"Ye…. Yes".
Lelei took the pig and come back to her tent. Without knowing what to do with it herself. Amiek had told her to " provide for its needs" so it was impossible to eat it, selling it to a butcher, or giving it up.
"What am I going to do with you?" Lelei whispered, looking the little animal pig in the eye, as if to find an answer.
"Groink!" Was the answer.
Amiek could of course have made the animal disappear with a thought, but something in the creature's eyes, a feeling he couldn't make out, dissuaded him.
Since he was currently able to experience even the most unexpected human emotions, these could influence him. In this case, Amiek was the victim of the "Puppy dog eye" emotion.
The Celestial liked the young magician. Even in this world where technological evolution seemed to be at a standstill, there were beings who pursued the search for knowledge. It was a [crucial piece of information/very important data/a positive point]. What was all the more encouraging is that according to her statements, the young girl seemed to seek knowledge for itself and not for [acquiring a power/obtaining an advantage/making a gain] of any kind.
One of the Celestial's goals was to determine the evolutionary potential of the people of Falmart. The biological aspect was left to the other Celestials remaining on the other side of the Gate who [experimented/manipulated/tested] as appropriate on the specimens he had collected. Himself, must to [observe their social development/analyze their behavior in groups/determine their capacity for cooperation], behavioral, and all that followed. His mission could last for decades. Studying their learning abilities and what would follow was [a parameter/variable/aspect] that could determine whether they would be [destroyed/changed/left under observation] when judgment was made.
Lelei, of course, was totally unaware of the crucial role she was playing in the future of her people, and indeed of all life in her world…. Including her own life. She just wanted to learn everything she could.
She hadn't thought for a second that the Celestial himself would teach her anything personally, but she had hoped that he could open up new perspectives on her way of thinking, maybe even give her some advice or some leads. to follow to continue her quest for knowledge.
Ultimately, Lelei was the most ordinary and at the same time the most interesting person of the day. She was just a simple human practicing what little mystical art she could, given human limitations, but her demeanor made her more important to a Celestial than the Eternal or the Apostle.
She represented change as the other two followed passages chosen for them by outside forces.
[Alternatives/possibilities/other ways of doing things] that he hadn't considered until now were running through Amiek's mind. He had already [come to a logical conclusion/made his decision/made a choice] about the villagers. If their faith and gratitude were any indication, they would follow his directions without hesitation, as long as his requests [accomplished their goals/were beneficial to them/did not endanger them].
The Eternal and the Apostle would also have their uses, and now this young mage might get some questions answered. Yes, his observation mission was going to take an unexpected turn, but not unwanted.
-0-
Count Colt Formal d´Italica was exhausted. After the day of blessings was over, lots of people wanted to speak "in person" to the Apostle. Amiek had [asked/ordered/given the task] to sort it out for private audiences. 4 people met the criteria.
First, the mayor. He represented the villagers so it was a logical choice.
Second, Elf Tuka. The Celestial had expressed an interest in her so, not wanting to upset anything, he allowed.
Next, Rory Mercury. Normally Colt would have put her first but she hadn't shown up sooner so she was only going now. Fortunately, because not only would he have hated to keep her waiting because of the fear she inspired, but above all it was the meeting that Colt feared the most. What if she went after Amiek for one reason or another? Rory was known for her sense of justice but also for an incredible number of killings.
Finally, a young magician whose name the Count had not remembered. An exchange of a few words had convinced him that she was calm and collected and that she was a magician. Her master Cato El Atestan had something to do with it because, without being a personal acquaintance of the Count, he had a humble but real reputation and was considered a reasonable man.
Now he was completely exhausted. Turning back all believers who wanted to speak to the Apostle in person was a real job of diplomacy, patience and tact.
Other than that, he was moderately happy with his day. At first he thought he could see his daughter today, and if it hadn't been for the Flame Dragon case he would be hugging her right now.
He had also spent the day wondering what to do with the monster. Amiek had settled the matter in the afternoon and, according to the Celestial, the Flame Dragon would never return here, which Colt was delighted with even though he had a thought of regret for those who would have to cope with it. One of Falmart's worst calamities.
And finally, the worst, or the best, he didn't know yet: Amiek had revealed his true appearance, which wasn't his true appearance either, but that Colt had given up on understanding, to the whole village of Coda.
He was not an expert in religion but according to the texts he had read, when an Apostle became a deity and acquired worshipers…. There were many troubles ahead. Those who wanted to leave their old God to worship the new one, the problems of money lost by the various temples to the benefit of the new religion. Sometimes it even turned into a bloodbath. Emroy's rise to deity had spawned a civil war at the time with Zufmuut's followers.
Amiek was never an Apostle, and his religion was born, he feared all kinds of trouble with the other 12 current Gods. On the one hand, there was the fight that could break out between the Celestials and the Gods of Falmart, but also between the worshipers of the Gods in question with those of the Celestials.
Once again he cursed the opening of the Gate.
When he had pondered enough on the subject, sitting gloriously on a rock, and tired and unable to sleep, a whole other thought occurred to him, a comforting thought.
The Count knew that the Celestials had powers er…. "Cosmic," in Amiek's words, extraordinarily vast, but… .. They were even able to RISE THE DEAD ?!
Such a fantastic idea had never occurred to him…. And it aroused some understandable hopes in his heart.
Amiek had said he would do whatever the Cunt wanted as long as it didn't interfere with his mission and it wasn't too unreasonable, right?
He had heard Amiek's conversation with Rory from afar. When he heard that the Celestial would make him GOD, if he asked he was amazed. His mind couldn't accept such a gigantic statement.
The situation was getting more and more crazy and was out of control. He no longer knew what to think or do.
Until now Colt hadn't asked himself these kinds of questions simply because apart from protecting his daughter and his people, there was nothing he really wanted. At least, nothing that was possible. He was rich, he had beautiful maids at his service although none would ever replace Myui's mother, he was loved by his people and he was in good health. He could already have almost anything a man could wanted.
But now….
Was the only thing he had to do, was ask what he wanted as a child asking for a gift from his parents at a party? Was it that easy?
The Count had spent several months with the Celestial in the forest at Alnus and he had never dared to ask for anything when Amiek had said from the start that, in return for his cooperation, he would give him whatever he wanted.
However, the Count was a simple man in certain respects. Unlike her peers in Sadera, his desires remained humble. Fame was nice, but it wasn't the goal of his life. Fortune he already had and he had learned the hard way that power could be a burden more than a freedom. It was for this reason that even the divinity did not interest him.
Besides protecting his people and his daughter, there was only one thing he really wanted. Something most people actually want.
Italica's Colt Formal wanted to see the people he loved, and was dead, again. In this case, his wife and parents. A simple desire, a human desire, an impossible desire.
But in fact Amiek could guarantee that desire and maybe he would if Colt asked. The Count dared not hope... Especially since his worries about what might happen to his world in the near future had not gone away, far from it.
The Count was lost in thought when he was interrupted by the voice of a young man.
"Ex…. Excuse me…. Uh…. Sir? I would like to talk to you."
The Count turned his head in the direction of the young man. He immediately recognized the blond-haired boy accompanying Emroy's Apostle.
The big bag on his back was rather distinctive….
"Good evening young man. What can I do for you ?"
Colt was suspicious. He knew Rory had gone to talk to Amiek, since he had stayed a little further away, just within earshot to make sure, as always, that things didn't turn out to be a disaster. However, his servant's visit could have hidden implications. It is common in politics to send out minions to glean information. So he wasn't convinced the boy was there "in all innocence."
"I…. My name is Grassac Em Joste. I'm sorry to bother you but…. As you may know, me and my mistress will accompany you to Alnus."
"Sure enough, I've heard of it."
"So…. So, I wanted to ask you…. I wanted to ask you what awaits me. I'll admit it to you, I'm scared."
This statement surprised the Count. It is very rare for a servant of Emroy to admit his fear. They feel it of course (even if they claim otherwise) but they would never say it for fear of displeasing their God.
"Explain all that to me, Grassac".
Grassac told his whole story, from the start, without omitting any detail.
"Now Emroy's Apostle tells me that this may be the most important assignment she has had in 1,000 years. She says she doesn't know what lies ahead and that I should be happy because I will surely find an opportunity to "deserve death". Frankly I am not happy. It's no longer death that scares me. Since I've been with Rory I've been slaughtered, disembowelled, my head smashed with a club, dismembered and eaten alive by ants. So death isn't so scary anymore. What worries me is the unknown. What awaits me at Alnus Hill? I was there not that long ago and saw riches appear and disappear, I even held them in my hands. Then I saw people go crazy and kill each other. Now my mistress tells me that I must return to this cursed place to face powers that even the Gods know nothing…. about Rory's opinion. Obviously I'm terrified. So since you apparently come from there, I would like to know what awaits me. Tell me pleas ".
The Count felt like he was seeing a younger version of himself. Grassac had unwittingly found himself held hostage in a situation that was completely beyond him. While he himself had become Amiek's "companion", Grassac had become the servant of the Apostle of death. There was nothing they could do about it and their fates no longer belonged to them.
"I would be frank with you. Even I can't really say what's in store for you. All I can do is tell you what has happened to me over the past few months."
Colt in turn spoke of what he had seen behind the gate, the fate of Sadera's armies and the time he had spent with Amiek, his strangeness and all the impossible things he had seen.
"Ultimately what I mean is I have no idea how things are going to turn out. It is all about beings who are far above us. Whether it is the Gods or the Celestials. It's impossible for me to tell you what to expect. My only advice: be prepared to see incredible and impossible things. I haven't stopped seeing this since I walked through the Gate."
"What kind of things? Giant magicians everywhere? My mistress says it wasn't a God, but that doesn't reassure me. These giants don't eat humans I hope? "
Colt giggled at this infantile fear. It took a good minute for him to regain control of his breath.
"No, don't worry. They doesn't eat them. However…."
"Howe…. However what?"
"I'd rather not lie to you. They are experimenting on them".
"Experimenting?"
"Yes. Like some sages of Rondel do on their slaves."
"I do not understand."
Grassac was a farm boy. He had not grown up in Rondel, and the concept of biological experiments to advance science was completely alien to his view of the world. Colt explained to him in detail what vivisection was. Grassac's stomach knotted in disgust and fear. The idea of trying to run away from Rory again rather than going to Alnus was becoming an attractive idea again.
"Rest assured. I'm pretty sure they won't do anything to you. I am with one of them since the expedition failed and he explained it to me. Their experiences are of such nature that their "specimens" as they call us, do not suffer and do not die."
"So what do they do with them?"
"They release them and observe them again in secret, or they go elsewhere. They are like the sages of Rondel in a way, but much bigger."
"So what do you recommend?"
"Enjoy life, pray to your Gods, don't let fear dominate yourselves and…. Go to bed. A good night's sleep will do you good. OUUUAAAAHHHHH… .. Me too, by the way," said the Count, yawning.
"Good night, Monsieur le Comte."
"Good night Grassac. Ah, one more thing."
"Yes ?"
"If we ever manage to get out of this whole thing alive, come to Italica and I will give you an official pardon for your problems with the military."
Now Grassac was stunned. He had never associated with the nobility but, like all commoners, he knew that the nobles were, generally, arrogant bastards devoid of altruism.
"Tha…. Thank you, but… Why this grace?"
"Because it felt good to talk to someone like you. A good boy who was unlucky. I think you've had enough problems like this and I want to help you. Unfortunately, there is not much I can do. I can settle the official problem with the authorities through my daughter, but I have no authority over Rory Mercury, and I doubt whether, officially pardoned or not, she will release you from her service."
Effectively. The laws of mortals have no hold over the Gods and their representatives. However, it felt good to know that there was hope for him if one day he could convince Rory to let him go.
Which he doubted a lot.
"Me too, it…. It makes me feel good to have a normal conversation with a normal person. I would like to ask you, since you cannot help me at the moment. Can…. Can I make a request? A very slight request?"
"What do you want ?"
"Could you send a message to my parents? I would like to warn them that I am alive. Après what happened to Alnus, they must believe that I am dead and I…. I want to reassure them. I don't want them moping for nothing."
The Count thought for a few moments.
"I think I have a better idea. Follow me."
Grassac was surprised but he followed the Count nonetheless. What did he have to lose? The nobleman seemed genuinely willing to help him.
A few seconds later, they arrived near Amiek's campfire, who was having yet another interesting, but painful experience.
The Celestial wondered if they should leave the primitive lifeforms that had landed in various places on his skin and sucked his blood, continue their activity until the end or if he should crush them. None carried disease, but the stinging product they injected to anesthetize their prey was particularly painful, but the experience, which he did not intend to relive, was necessary.
As he pondered the fate for the swarm of mosquitoes around him, he saw the Count emerge from a thicket accompanied by the [subunit/homo sapiens linked to/human slave] of the Apostle. However, he felt it was not for a simple audience.
"The hearings are over. Everyone has gone to sleep, however, by our deal, I would like you to do me a favor for this young man."
The Celestial thought for a moment before answering. He was keen to fulfill his contract with Colt, however, if he set about [twisting the order of things/making wills/to give wishes] everyone else's, it would quickly create an imbalance in this world. The [metabolic repairs/blessings/healing] that he had been giving all afternoon were little but if the local lifeforms started to believe that he would make their every wish come true, and worse yet, if he did really, then that would quickly create [a damaging disproportion/a major imbalance/a series of problems] on this planet. He would therefore have to refuse and remind the Count that their contract still had some limits.
However, it would be [illogical/unreasonable/absurd] to refuse something before you know what it is.
"What do you wish ?"
"Grassac, here present, wants to speak to his family. Including informing his parents that he is still alive. So I would like you to relate them through dreaming like you do for me and Myui."
Amiek thought for a moment.
"Allowed. However Colt, I warn you that I normally only grant your wishes. I do not have [the accreditation/intention/desire] to grant the wishes of others through you. This is one of the limits of our contract. [This directive is essential/You better know it/I prefer to warn you] now.
The Count took fright for a moment.
"I understand." Said Colt.
"I do not understand." Said Grassac.
The Count then explained that he had made a deal and that his wishes would be granted to some extent. He also explained the "dream trip" to the young boy.
"Therefore…. Will I be able to talk to my family in a dream? And will they know it's really me and not just a dream?"
"It's a little more complicated, but that's about it," replied the Count.
"I…. I don't know how to thank you. I guess I must fall asleep but…. I'm too excited to fall asleep."
"It's not a problem without a solution". Amiek said, looking into Grassac's gaze.
The young man was immediately seized with a strong urge to sleep and slumped gently to the ground.
The Celestial approached and placed his hand on the head of Rory Mercury's servant, exploring his memories and tracing the metaphysical ties that united Grassac to his parents.
When he had traced the psychic link, Amiek noticed that Grassac's parents, although lying at the bottom of their bed, [were in a state of cerebral hyperactivity/were not sleeping/could not fall asleep].
They thought of their youngest son. Yet they had been enthusiastic when he decided to join the army. This would make a career for him and even if he never rose in rank, he would have a paycheck and, when he retired, he would have the means to support himself.
They had even been enthusiastic when they heard that their son would go to Alnus to fight the barbarians of the other world. It must be said that the population had been misinformed, deliberately perhaps, and still believed that the Empire had triumphed, as always, and that the Allied kingdoms were called in as reinforcements to continue the conquest. It was not unusual.
There was always the risk of dying, of course, but most conquests were easy victories that ended in a matter of months. Their son would have his share of the booty and might even come back with a slave or two to help them with the work in the fields. He was not the oldest but he would be the pride of the family.
When the truth came to light, after the initial disbelief, it was anxiety. Who was dead and who would come back alive? Each family prayed to their God that a miracle would take place and that their sons, their fathers, their brothers would be the lucky ones who would come back safe and sound.
Too much time had passed now and there was little hope. Amira Mir Joste and Roval Fla Joste had lost their second child and had been sleeping very little since.
It wasn't a problem for Amiek of course. A little stimulation of the secretion of melatonin in the pineal gland of their brains would be enough to put them to sleep in a few moments.
Moments later, the whole family was reunited, under the supervision of the Celestial. The method remained the same. Parents would wake up in their house not knowing they were still asleep, then they heard a voice calling them, they left their homes, their surroundings disappeared, replaced by a "big white". Finally the giant Celestial appeared with their son in his hand then, after some explanations, the reunion with hot tears took place.
-0-
While Grassac celebrated his reunion with his parents, Rory was in full audience with her God. Emroy had never lost souls until now, and he didn't like that those he received during the Flame Dragon attack were "expelled" from his realm to return to among the living. The little information Rory had been able to get from Amiek hadn't improved his mood.
In theory, after gaining access to divinity, the Gods were supposed to be "infinitely wise" and devoid of emotion. The truth was more subtle than that.
The infinite wisdom of the Gods came more from their longevity than from other things. After being Apostle for 1000 years, going through all kinds of experiences and doing all kinds of things, they devoted themselves exclusively to a few areas. All this experience and specialization made them generally right.
This did not prevent them from time to time committing "monumental bullshit". The latest was Hardy's opening the Gate without first figuring out what was behind it first. The explanation given in such situations, when someone dared to ask questions, was that "the ways of the Gods are beyond comprehension mortals" or something like that.
As for their emotions, they still felt it but differently. They no longer had physical bodies, so they no longer had nerves to drive physical sensations to their brains where their neurochemistry converted nerve impulses into sensations and triggered emotions.
They no longer had brain neurochemistry. It was replaced by coherent metaphysical energies. The result was the same, but the feeling was different. To put it simply, the Gods "logically" experienced their emotions.
Therefore, at this moment, Emroy was experiencing thoughtful annoyance, and a previously thought out anger.
"I do not like this at all. I don't like this Amiek who hunted the Flame Dragon, I don't like his Apostle, and I don't like his way of speaking."
"What are your orders my lord?" Rory asked.
"You will follow him and see for yourself, however, I will strengthen our bond."
"Strengthen our bond, my lord?"
"Yes. I can no longer be satisfied with your reports after the facts. I must show up and act personally if the need arises. I will strengthen our bond to see through your eyes and hear what you hear."
It was unprecedented. Certainly, the Apostles were linked to their tutelary divinity. It was kind of like they lived in the same house, but they weren't meant to be their vessel. This was the role of the priests/priestesses of their clergy.
"I do not want to discuss your will my Lord, but I am wondering. If you do this, won't your attention be distracted from your other tasks?"
"Do not worry about that. People will continue to die, kill and wage war. No need me for this, people are very good for this stuff naturally. I would just pay a little less attention for a while."
"At your command my Lord."
"Besides, you will try to sympathize with the Apostle."
"Sympathize, my lord?"
"I understand you found the guy infuriating. I share your opinion but you will still make an effort. Did you tell me you wanted to be a goddess of love? Bad choice in my opinion. You should instead choose goddess of battles, weapons, or duels. Anyway, you can always change your mind later. Either way, since you chose love, you're going to put it to use. Try to seduce him."
"YOU WANT I…. WHAT?!"
"You understood me correctly. Try to seduce him. Seducing the enemy is a good tactic for extracting information as you know it. I've seen a lot of generals lose wars over a pretty spy girl. So I look forward to you as well."
"But…. But…."
" "But" what? You refuse?'"
"No. No. Of course no my lord. It's just that…. It's a tactic if…. Unusual, coming from you. And then I don't know how to do it. He is so…. Different. Besides, my body is not…. Suitable for this stuff. Oh, I've known men before of course, as you know, but it was very difficult. Most people prefer women more…. taller than me, physically. As for those who prefer girls uh…. Physically like me, well I sent everyone I met, directly to you. "
"So first of all, unusual tactic or not you know the proverb "In war as in love. All shots are allowed. The real enemy is peace". Then, different or not, you will have to adapt to him, to gauge his strengths and weaknesses. You can at least sympathize and try to learn his secrets. Even the most insignificant information could change the course of the war. "
"The war? So we're officially at war with these uh… "Celestials" ?"
"It seems obvious to me. The other Gods talk about acting cautiously, showing moderation, but I know better. I recognize invaders when I see them. This giant did not resuscitate these people out of sheer kindness. It was a tactic to gain worshipers. If we are not careful, soon all the Falmartians will follow and accept their domination".
Rory could see all the wisdom in her god's words. However…. She didn't feel like this "Celestial" was trying to dominate anyone. She didn't know anything about them but it must have been what peope call a "female intuition".
Yet that did not reassure her. If these Celestials weren't here to conquer, then what were they there for? War and conquest, even religious wars for new followers, she knew that very well, but there she was facing the unknown.
It was then that Rory realized something: her God had asked her to get closer to Amiek, to seduce him if possible…. When he said he would be more present in her?
….
….
….
The fact that Emroy was the God of madness had bad aspects sometimes.
-0-
The night had passed and, after slightly altering his body biochemistry to emit odors that would repel mosquitoes in the future, Amiek had considered what to do as the situation unfolded.
He had a proposal for the inhabitants of Coda village. A proposal that had an 87.93% chance of being accepted by at least 68.69% of the villagers.
It was still necessary that the peope come to find him this morning to seek further advice and blessing. Oddly enough, the odds of this happening were around 152.45% which was a mathematical impossibility from a human point of view, but a Celestial's statistics were more reliable…. Even if their logic was incomprehensible.
Indeed, other people had come to find him and he had told them this:
"The [goal/desire/intention] of Celestial Amiek is that those who seek his blessing come to Alnus Hill. There a new life awaits them. Those who will come [will have a great destiny/will be blessed/will not regret it] ".
It wasn't quite a Celestial way of doing things, but it should get the result Amiek wanted.
This information had been received…. Tepidly. Some, especially the resurrected, would have followed their new God without hesitation. The others were more…. circumspect.
It is one thing to receive a blessing "free". It's another thing to change your plans for it. Why go to Alnus? There is nothing for humans there. This is the land of the Gods. A place surrounded by superstitions and which is normally off limits. Great armies had vanished there and those who had returned seemed to have gone mad with incoherent speeches of gold lands appearing and disappearing.
Besides, not everyone was in favor of this "Celestial". Many of the villagers were Flare servants and did not intend to change their religion. To receive the blessings of the Celestial Amiek, yes, to become his worshiper, no.
However, it is true that they had much more faith in a God who had just saved them than in other Gods who had done nothing for them.
Ultimately many villagers hesitated. In Italica, at least, they knew what to expect, but in Alnus…. True, Amiek the Apostle had said that they could change their minds once there if they wanted to, but it was several days of traveling in the wrong direction in hostile territory, and if they made it to their destination and wanted change their minds they would have to retrace an even longer path to get to Italica, even fewer in number and at the mercy of the bandits who had infested the area since the defeat of the vassal kingdoms.
After 2 hours of thoughts, discussions, arguments, about three quarters of the villagers agreed to go to Alnus. There were those who were overflowing with hope that their new God would welcome them to holy and blessed land, and those who went there simply because they really had no other place to go. Those who decided to continue traveling in the direction of Italica were mainly those who had family there, or who remained faithful to their God. From Amiek's point of view it was better that way because they would spread the news which would soon become the "good word".
Some had hesitated, like Melissa's husband who had family in a small town West of Italica and who could probably work at his Uncle's inn. However, Melissa herself was of a different opinion.
"Are you really sure of yourself? In Alnus, the unknown awaits us. In Italica My Uncle will let us run his inn. We will be housed, fed, paid and safe".
"I'm surprised. It seems to me that it was you who wanted to leave this place to come to Coda because you wanted to be independent from your family."
"It's true and I have no regrets. We were happy in Coda, but times are changing. I have to think about you and our son and your safety. The Flame Dragon is awakened, the armies of the Empire and kingdoms weakened and the forests surrounding Alnus are full of bandits. I must do what I can to protect you."
"Honey, I don't agree. Sure your Uncle would help us out, but I think you better go see Alnus. You heard? The Clestial says those who come will not regret. Your attitude is laudable and your words are true. In these dark times we must exercise caution, but we also need to think about our son's future. It doesn't cost anything to go to Alnus. If we don't like it, we can always leave later. I feel we have an opportunity here that will never come again. Let's grab it".
"Do you really trust this new god?"
"He prefers to be called a "Celestial", however, he saved our lives, his Apostle healed anyone who asked him and he demanded nothing in return, not even a thank you. By the way, is your hand better?"
"Yes my hand is better since the Apostle treated me. Now I can open all of my fingers just like when I was a kid."
"Despite that you don't have confidence? At least we'll be protected from the Flame Dragon."
"But maybe not protected from bandits."
"There I am not worried. Rumor has it that the bandits are avoiding Alnus."
Melissa's husband hesitated a moment before resigning himself.
"You've always been good advice. I would do as you say. I hope we don't have to regret it. "
"To be honest…. I'm scared too, but nothing is certain these days". Melissa replied, looking down with a surge of anxiety.
Her husband approached and took her in his arms.
There was no need for them to talk any more. They would follow the new Apostle to Alnus. May they find salvation there.
Of course, Amiek was not seeking to be worshiped or seen as a God. The previous day's experience with the veneration of the inhabitants of Coda village had [collected enough data/very informative/no need to do more] on the subject, no need to add more. It was all within the scope of his observations and that is why he now wanted the villagers, and others after them, to come to Coda village. He would have plenty of time to observe, learn, experiment and that would be much more practical than having to travel (which he would do anyway afterwards, but everything in his time). Preparations would be completed in a few days when the convoy reached Alnus.
At the same time, three other people were also looking towards the sacred hill.
"The promised land for the worthy, the country or the Gods will save the worthy and grant bliss. Patience Papa, the hour is near, "thought Tuka, who somehow attached herself to the only hope she had of seeing her father again.
Emroy's Apostle was mentally preparing. This case would not be as easy as usual. This time she should really take risks, maybe fight other Apostles. Until this day, she was sure of her strength. Apart from the Gods themselves and a few special monsters like the Flame Dragon, she had nothing to fear. Not that she was afraid for herself. A millennium of existence had hardened him far beyond fear of death and suffering, but this time the unknown awaited him. Emroy himself had decided to strengthen their bond to intervene directly if he felt it necessary.
This was…. Disturbing.
FLASHBACK
When she saw that Grassac was not where he should have been last night, she went looking for him to let off some steam on the, she believed, fleeing. The special bond had brought her back to the Apostle Amiek glade. Wouldn't he have the audacity to betray her by asking for the Celestial's protection from Emroy anyway?
She had seen Amiek with his hands resting on Grassac's head as he seemed to sleep upright, hidden in a thicket with his halberd sticking out that everyone saw but no one cared about. Grassac was in a trance, Colt preferred not to try to understand for fear of doing something dangerous and Amiek was indifferent.
Later that evening, after Rory had returned to the place where Grassac was supposed to come find her, she demanded an explanation.
" You are late. She said simply.
Grassac was surprised. He was late ? Late to do what?
" I…. I do not understand. "
" DO NOT LIE ! I saw you with the other Apostle. What were you doing there? Wouldn't you consider betraying Emroy by any chance? If you hope to seek the protection of another God to escape your homework, I will tell you right away that YOU ARE ON THE WRONG ROUTE ! ".
"I believe there is…. despise. I don't want to escape my homework. I am satisfied, even happy, with you. "
"Huh? "
"You spared me, you took me under your protection, you gave my pathetic existence a purpose. Without you I would now be a bandit, a mercenary, or a fleeing traitor. Obviously I am in no hurry to become "worthy of death" but the truth…. Is that I should ALREADY be dead. Several times. Thanks to you I am alive. How can I show you my most sincere gratitude? "
Rory was speechless, which didn't stop her from framing his question.
"But…. But then…. Why are you going to see the other uh ... "Apostle"?"
"It was not my intention. I was going to see the Count and we talked. He said he would fix my problems with the military but that was not what I wanted. What I really wanted was to send a message to my parents. So he took me to the Apostle and they explained to me that the magic of the Apostle could allow me to talk to my parents in a dream. I fell asleep and…. They weren't lying. I saw my parents, we talked. They were so happy, that they cried. I told them everything. My desertion among other things, and they told me that in their eyes it was nothing. They are proud that I am at your service and happy that I am alive. Besides, my mother sends you her thanks and asks you to take good care of me and make me obey you as herself. Then the dream stopped."
"?" Rory was dumbfounded.
Emroy, who was in her, was thinking the same thing, that he didn't know what to think.
"So you see? I have no intention of abandoning you. I know at the beginning I ... made some mistakes. I was scared, but now I know I can have faith in you."
"Uh…. Yes. Well. Very good. Go to bed. You will need all your strength in the days to come. "
Grassac went to bed while Rory wondered. The Apostle's power to communicate at a distance was a useful, but not surprising, information. The Gods often send dreams to mortals to speak to them. On the other hand, Grassac's attitude, who looked really happy and grateful to her, was a surprise.
"Oh my God. He's REALLY pathetic". She thought, considering Grassac, as a child considering a little puppy.
Rory felt a surge of bile in her throat.
END OF FLASHBACK
Rory had a hard time falling asleep, but the smell of bread, cheese and grilled meats had tickled her nostrils. Her first sight of the day was of Grassac's back as he was cooking a piece of beef over a wood fire.
"Are you awake? Good thing, it's breakfast time." He said simply with a big smile.
"What ?" asked Rory who was not yet fully conscious.
"We are leaving for Alnus today. I prepared breakfast and meals for the next three days. The villagers brought some food. It was necessary to cook immediately so as not to spoil."
The good smell finally woke Rory, who hadn't had a real meal for some time. Certainly since Grassac was there he was the one who carried the backpack and prepared the meals, but it was rare to have fresh products lately given the fact that her current mission had taken her away from the towns and villages of the province.
Grassac gave Rory her share of breakfast. Two slices of bread lay on top of each other with melted cheese and small pieces of beef in the center. Rory found it very appetizing and it smelled really good. She took a first bite.
"This is delicious."
"This is a recipe from my mother. We don't often get the chance to eat meat, but she said that this way we felt like we had more. It happens to vary the cheeses or the meat. I have a preference for sheep."
"It's a good cooking recipe."
Over the next 30 minutes, Rory learned everything she didn't want to know about Grassac's mother. In fact, after 5 minutes, she had just stopped paying attention. Normally she would have silenced the boy by giving him a terrifying look, but now she wasn't in the mood. She had something else to think about with her sandwich in her mouth, namely her conversations with Emroy and Amiek, and also what to expect in Alnus.
"The key to the mystery, the great unknown that even the Gods ignore. Perhaps the greatest of all my fights." Rory thought with determination and excitement, preparing to fight alongside her God.
Melissa was also thinking about what to expect in Alnus. She hoped to make the right choice. The situation had steadily worsened in recent months. First a major tax hike for Sadera's armies, then the increase in bandit activity in the region, then the Flame Dragon and the exile it entailed.
However the light of a God had shone in the night, his voice had spoken and promised salvation and safety. She had made her decision, not for herself but for her son.
"A new life" she had thought.
Lelei had spoken to her master, who was delighted to see that his disciple wanted to broaden her horizons and continue her quest for knowledge. The young magician was well aware that her curiosity could one day cost her too much, but the search for knowledge is not always done without risk in a laboratory. Many sages of Rondel had to explore unknown lands with all the risks that entailed. This time was no different, although for Lelei it was the first time she had taken such risks, even though the discussion with Amiek had partially allayed her fears.
A god, or whatever comes closest to it, was willing to share his knowledge. How could she pass up the opportunity?
"New knowledge, new truths, the path of comprehension and wisdom," Lelei thought, feeling nothing but curiosity.
The Celestial had initially predicted that all of this would take years, if not decades, but as the events rushed, he was forced to hasten his goals. Once in Alnus, Amiek would have plenty of time to observe the humans in the controlled environment that the mechanodroid were building for them right now.
Tuka thought to find new hope, Rory a new challenge, and Lelei new acquaintances….
"A new vivarium," Amiek thought.
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I am only moderately satisfied with this chapter, it is very difficult for me to work on the psychology of the characters and to make believable dialogues. This is a time consuming exercise because I cannot rely on the original story for these chapters. Well, well, I hope you had a good time anyway.