A really long chapter. Hopefully it doesn't seem too long. There's still a few more chapters I want to add before completing the story. Like where Vanitas has been.
Happy reading!
-Elegant
Thanatos and Verdant shared uninterrupted eye contact, either God very interested in the other. Known for being very swift, Thanatos made quick work of the distance between himself and the incarnation of Life itself. Many Gods were unsure how either would react, so they resorted to observing.
Verdant smiled and stepped closer to Thanatos, whom he was slightly taller than. "I've waited so long to meet you."
Thanatos flashed his cocky smile in return. "What took you so long?"
Holding his smile, he chuckled and supposed a better explanation was due. "The sealing of Surtr at the hands of Ishtar and Pele by Poli'ahu brought about the 'sparks of life' so to speak. Both miracles, achieved by the efforts of Sora," Looking over at the young Primordial, he nodded, earning one in return from Sora.
Thanatos also looked over at Sora, the God of Death was grateful. Until now, he never had an equal- someone to challenge and sometimes oppose him. But now, thanks to Sora and the Fire elemental Deities, he had a playmate.
Sora could see that Thanatos was really happy. Even if he was 'too cool to show it'. Unbeknownst to Sora- but obvious to Nyx and Hypnos who were slightly in disbelief - Thanatos gave him a genuine smile that was reserved for those of his bloodline, namely his siblings, mother, and father. Sora grinned back, he felt happy that Thanatos was happy.
Thanatos turned his attention back to Verdant, the cockyness coming back. But something very unexpected happened. The phoenix in Verdant's possession studied Thanatos, very carefully. Its eyes didn't settle anywhere for very long, until finally gazing downward at his head. It was at this point Thanatos realized he was a bit shorter than Verdant.
"She likes you... you can touch her, if you like," Verdant lowered her down so she was at Thanatos' eye level, which seemed to please the Phoenix.
"She won't- ah. I get it," Chuckling, Thanatos reached out his hand toward the Phoenix who was apparently female. He'd go by Verdant's word, as Thanatos never encountered one before. They were deathless beings, beyond his reach. Well, not right now, obviously. But otherwise, yes. The Phoenix combusted into flames, her life energy transferring for the very first time, warmth upon Thanatos' hand. His breath hitched, and he grinned like never before. Unbeknownst to the Death God, his eyes literally glittered for a moment.
Verdant took what he figured was a signal, and leaned down so their foreheads met, and he kissed the avatar of Death. When he pulled back, Thanatos wore a blank expression. Every God present was completely silent, waiting for Thanatos' reaction. To their surprise, the avatar of Life was able to interact freely with the avatar of Death. Their kiss hadn't caused him to die, or decay.
Thanatos' grin returned, Verdant seemed a little anxious in wait. "You're an aggressive kisser." Teasing the God of Life, it wasn't as if Thanatos hated the kiss, per se. He more or less enjoyed the gesture, one of few he had been long denied since touching others was forbidden. Forbidden. Wanting to scoff at his own thoughts, he looked over at Sora. Sora's eyes glittered and he looked like a kid at Christmas. Clearly, his young charge was rooting for them.
"Sorry," Verdant immediately apologized, scratching the back of his head. "I'm just... impatient, is all. As I said before, I've waited a long time to meet you. Now that we can interact, I don't want to waste a moment of it."
Thanatos could tell Verdant was being sincere with him. "...so it's an all cards on the table kinda scenario, huh?" Verdant nodded and let Thanatos continue speaking. "You like me, obviously. Well, I like you too. I know we've only just met, but we've known each other a long time. Through you, I experience the warmth and radiance of Life. Through me, you feel the cold numbness, peace, and, release of Death... taboo to either of us, that is... until the end."
Verdant nodded. "All Life began in darkness, and it will end in darkness. One day, you will have taken all Life to their respective afterlives, and I, too will be amongst them." Verdant knew that one day, he would also die. It would be Thanatos' hand that ends his own. Despite knowing all that, he still chose to stay close with Thanatos. Together, they were quite literally each other's opposite.
Sora felt a tug on his sleeve, and looked over at the individual in question who turned out to be The Morrigan. She was smiling, and though her eyes were white, Sora felt her gaze directly into his. Sora smiled back, wondering what could possibly put her in a good mood? Leading him away from the Gods, she periodically looked behind Sora, which made him paranoid. Thinking if this was an Orpheus and Eurydice kinda scenario, Sora gave in to temptation and looked. To his immediate relief and surprise, it was Roxas. Exhaling in relief, the Primordial of Darkness smiled.
Despite not being an aura reader, Roxas could still read people from time to time. Not to the degree that Sora could, obviously, as he doubted anyone could beat a descendant of Phoebe at fortune telling. Plus, in some tellings, the Fates were begotten by Zeus. Making a mental note to ask him later, Roxas took Sora's freehand in his own. "Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you. The Morrigan beckoned at me to follow. I guess old habits die hard, because I knew better than to argue." Subconsciously rubbing the former area of his gaes, Roxas stopped walking when The Morrigan stopped leading.
Letting go of Sora's hand, she walked forward and the sound of her raven startled both boys. Roxas more than Sora. He knew the sound well, and hadn't been able to forget it since he was a young child. The Morrigan whispered to her raven, the bird cawing as if in response. Once she finished, The Morrigan looked at Sora and then Roxas. "Fate has a few plans in store for us all. We must take on roles in order to guide and shape destiny toward a favourable future. And before you ask, yes, there are futures in which you die." The Morrigan let her words sit in the air, the ancient Goddess amused by their grim reactions to her revelation. Snickering, she let them ask the inevitable questions she already knew the answers to.
"How?" Asking in unison, Sora and Roxas looked at each other and smiled. It was nice to be on the same page about things.
"Multiple ways. There are ways to incapacitate Primordial Beings and deny them their right to reform in a new body. But such things would be seen as 'unforgivable'." Seeing the looks on their faces, she supposed she should continue. "Have you ever heard of those who displeased The Fates and The Morrigan? Of course not. Those who have outlived their purpose, be it through wickedness or becoming irrelevant, do not return. What we speak of, are souls who will bring about the end of all things, or be cast into Tartarus itself."
Sora gasped, earning a look from Roxas.
"What's so special about Tartarus? Don't all convicted souls go there when they die? It's basically Greek punishment, right?" Roxas was filled with so many questions. And then it dawned on him that these were the questions she spoke of. Her lips curved into a smirk as she seemingly knew what he was thinking about. Truth be told, she did. The Morrigan guided all aspects of destiny. She was there, from the moment we're born, to the moment we die.
Sora glanced quickly at The Morrigan who nodded. Who was she to stand between the beloved duo? "Tartarus is a living being like Xibalba. It's Greek Hell. And the Gods, well… they only threw the worst, and I mean absolutely worst souls imaginable in there. It's a punishment not taken lightly."
The Morrigan looked pleased with their banter, but she was pressed for time so would have to cut it short. "Pay attention now, boys. We need to take you to a special locale. There is a bewitching creature there, one unlike any other. You will need her aid, for what is to come. We know you have many questions, but we do not have the luxury of time. We will take you to the Siren, and you must do the rest."
Sora and Roxas had listened and nodded their heads, but their hearts dropped once they heard the emphasis on 'bewitching' then on top of that, a Siren!?
The Morrigan snickered. She truly found their antics to be amusing. "Her power only works on those who have yet to find their true love. Now is not the time for fear. We call you to action, will you not aid us?" The Morrigan offered her arms to the boys, smiling once Sora grabbed on and then Roxas. Whisking them away in an instant, they appeared in a foggy, rocky location. The crashing of waves sounded off, along with a beautiful and enchanting song unlike any other.
"If we're really being honest, I do find it 'bewitching' here…" Sora had to admit, from what he could see, it was unique.
"Yeah, that seems like something you'd say," Roxas smiled and chuckled. "But it is nice here. Right, Morrigan?"
When they both looked where The Morrigan had been standing, she was gone. If the boys weren't busy paying attention to that, they would have been able to notice the singing had stopped. Before they could speak again, the Siren called out to them.
"What's this? Two young Primordials come to me, knowing what I do to men who traverse the sea? Such strange creatures."
As if she were fascinated by the young deities, the Siren forgot her place and spoke first. Sora and Roxas' instinct was to turn around, but she scolded them.
"No! Do not look upon me! A Siren's appearance is not her strong suit!… I ask why you have disturbed me, young lords?"
She sounded frantic when they tried to turn around. Out of respect, they obeyed. Sora looked at Roxas who glanced back at him. Swallowing nervously, he spoke up for the both of them.
"We come seeking your aid, at the behest of The Morrigan. She said there is some sort of calamity to befall the world, and we needed the aid of a Siren. One who can strip beings of their free will," Sora felt a gentle squeeze on his hand and smiled at Roxas who mouthed 'good job'.
"The Morrigan came to you, and spoke of this…? Of course, she would have sent you both to me…. She knows of the stipulation that Siren's can no longer bewitch those who have found their true loves…"
The Siren seemed to be musing to herself, so Sora and Roxas nodded to show they were listening.
"Is there something we can call you?" Sora wasn't sure what to start with, but formalities seemed a little obvious as he thought it over more.
"The name of a Siren is a closely guarded secret- I can tell you mine, but you must do something for me."
Sora and Roxas glanced only at each other and not in the direction of the Siren. Swallowing nervously, and each nodding, the Siren continued to speak.
"My name is not one easily given. I need a mortal form so that I may aid you. And as for my name, well- you may call me 'Shy'."
"Okay, Shy. We're kinda new at this, but…" Sora looked over at Roxas, who seemed ready to finish his thought.
"…we're going to need a little guidance. What would be proper for a Siren?" Roxas only knew about the myths. Which for some reason people started to blur the mythologies of Siren's and Mermaids. It wasn't that Mermaids couldn't sing beautifully, it was more along the lines of their song 'bewitching' the receiver.
"Something unattainable by mortal beauty standards. A pretty face to lure them in, with a voice to bewitch and take their free will away. Any threat to the two become one is most unfortunate, indeed."
Sora chuckled. He found it interesting that she knew what Roxas' name meant. "Alright, so a fantasy colour for your hair. Something… pretty!" Sora's eyes sparkled with excitement as he tried to think up a good colour. In the end, he went with something familiar, but also different. He gave Shy blues, with sea foam green, and grey with hints of purple. It was something humans couldn't replicate. Well, not without dyes and possible professional assistance. To make her stand out even more, Shy's eyes would also be a fantasy colour. Violet. Sora didn't know why, but that was the colour he settled on.
Roxas was going to give her a modern outfit. He didn't dare try and gaze in the direction of a naked Siren, for he didn't know what kind of wrath would be placed upon his head. Plus, he just didn't have the urge. Glancing down at Sora's and his hands and the rings quite literally made by the 'Forge of the Gods' - Hephaestus - himself, he smiled. Assuming she would have a youthful appearance, Roxas gave her a little more of a mature outfit as he wasn't sure how young she was going for.
"Such fine wares and a form unlike any other! You both honour me, this day."
Shy inspected the clothes, and found them to be acceptable. Putting on the white long sleeved, button up shirt, she slipped on the black leather jacket, black jeans, ankle boots, and even a necklace. The stone glittered and was pretty. Her wavy hair blew gently from the sea breeze, and she stepped toward the young Primordials before her. Once she stood in front of them, Shy spoke up.
"And who am I to take free will away from?" Shy looked from one to the other with a questioning look, surprised when they wore equal expressions.
"We don't know yet, sorry." Roxas didn't want to seem disrespectful, so he refrained from shrugging. He didn't want the wrath of an angry siren on his head.
"The Morrigan just said we were here to find and recruit you. She didn't say how the encounter would go, just that it was in store." Sora hoped he helped a bit in explaining.
Shy nodded, seemingly okay with their answers. "How's the babe? I hear he's quite the looker, and powerful, even as Gods are concerned. A God who can willingly make eclipses is definitely something to behold."
"He's doing great. Elio doesn't even cry, he just kinda… observes, I guess? I know Gods are supposed to be smart and all knowing, but he seems clever." Roxas was surprised she'd heard about him all the way out here. But as most called Sora/Him 'Heathen Born Gods'- which, they weren't wrong, but it still kinda made them seem lesser. Lots of Gods said they were 'surprised' at Sora and Roxas' callings. Even if it was a little insensitive, Roxas had to chalk it up to them being Gods. Lots of things were(n't) taboo to Gods, and frankly put, being born a God and becoming one later in life had to be different. Roxas must have been deep in thought, because he felt Sora gently squeeze his hand and smile at him. Roxas returned the gesture.
"Fortunate you are, indeed. I can also lull him to sleep, if need be. Shall we leave now?" Shy offered her hands, that Sora and Roxas both took. Nodding to the Siren, they were transported back to the very temple gifted to Sora/Roxas by Artemis.
Not surprisingly, they were in the company of Artemis, Elio, and Medusa. The women were surprised when they saw Shy and vice versa.
"A Siren…?" Artemis sounded absolutely in awe. She had never studied one up close before. Nymphs, sure. Even Gods and Goddesses, and some of the rarest supernatural creatures in existence. But never had she the pleasure of meeting a Siren, even the Gods knew to be wary of. A creature taking away free will was almost unheard of. At least, if you didn't count Neith/The Morrigan/The Fates.
Nodding her head and bowing once finished, Shy spoke up. "It's my pleasure to meet you, Artemis. Your story about you and Orion is one of my favourites… even if it had a tragic end," Shy hoped she wasn't out of place saying such things to Artemis, renowned for her temper. But she figured if that were the case then there would be some hefty divine wrath on her head.
"Thank you," Artemis smiled softly and somewhat sadly. "He was one of the greatest joys in my life, I never thought that when I made my oath to Zeus about preserving my virginity, that a mortal would become my greatest love… That is, until my children, of course. And now grandchild," Artemis looked from Sora, to Roxas, to Elio when she spoke. They were her pride, her joy, her literal family unit. Apollo said having family 'that way' was different from siblings and romance, but Artemis kind of figured this life would never be hers and accepted it- so it was still surreal to have it now. She would never take it for granted.
Medusa spoke up next, appearing beside the beaming father's. "Sora certainly has the unusual habit of taming fearsome creatures…" Snickering to herself, the former gorgon turned immortal bowed her head to Sora and Roxas once they looked her way. Shy and Medusa both studied each other.
"Yes, he does. Even we, the unseen have heard of his exploits… there are plenty under the dominion of the 'dark', the 'moon', etc, who wish to meet him to pledge their allegiance. It seems now, with a young deity of Darkness and his union with a being of Light, we too shall be brought forward," Shy smiled, somewhat delighted. Sora and Roxas would bring about a new age of things. Who knew that from the remnants of Ragnarok, the new world would be born as foretold, but not with two remaining humans and no deities? Instead, there were pockets of humanity who survived thanks to the shifting of lands, Fenrir did not get them all. And the Demi-Gods were unaffected due to being protected in their town, hidden away until they could be used by the appropriate Gods.
As if on cue, Sora spoke up next. "And I can't wait to meet each and everyone of them, but right now there's someone else I need to meet," Sora found everyone staring at him. "Oh! Nothing too serious, a Demi-God who goes by the name of 'Wolfgang'."
Roxas nodded. "I think this is where we part ways for a bit, I'll hang back here with Artemis, Elio, Medusa, an-" About to include Shy, he found himself cut off by the Siren. Not in a snarky, demeaning way, but probably from the fact that she had limited social interaction until now.
"I'll go with Sora," Shy joined arms with him and smiled. It was her first time on land, and if Sora was going to bewitch someone to their cause, the Siren wanted to see his powers of persuasion up close.
Sora grinned, but temporarily unlocked his and Shy's arms. He walked over to Roxas and kissed him on the cheek. Turning his attention to Elio, he beamed with pride like Artemis. "I'll be back, I've got to meet a Demi-God," Ruffling Elio's hair, the young God smiled with delight. Despite being so 'young' he was rather advanced for his age. Though, Sora had no experience being with young Gods, he found it strange Elio looked about 6 months.
Artemis, sensing this, spoke up. "Young Gods mature at an accelerated rate. And yes, I know that wasn't the case for either of you-" Artemis looked between Sora and Roxas who both wore the same puzzled look, but were glad she was explaining it now. "-but you were Demi-Gods. The greatness of a God was always within you, but those bits of mortality in a sense 'weighed you down'. I'm not saying it was a weakness, but your powers were dim compared to now, right?"
Sora and Roxas nodded, the two of them agreeing. Looking back to Artemis, she continued to speak.
"Mortalty can be a wonderful gift in its own right, but his claim to divinity is great. Elio will grow faster than normal, he was begotten by two Primordials. I know you're both just starting out, but we all have such high hopes. Aine, Apollo, Ra, Amaterasu all speak highly of you, Roxas. Even Nyx's children would be delighted to teach you," Artemis was proud. Her son-in-law was making quite the impression. Turning her attention back to Sora, she held her smile. "Nyx, Erebus, Baba Yaga, and Hecate all speak volumes of you. I'm so glad our powers are compatible. After all, how could the moon glisten and bring its beauty to the Earth without the Darkness?"
Sora and Artemis both had the same look on their faces. Roxas couldn't help but smile, too. "Go become the God of Darkness you were meant to be," Roxas chuckled and led Sora back to Shy. If he didn't leave now, he likely wouldn't be able to go for a while. "Take care of him, won't you?" Roxas looked hopefully at Shy.
"Yes, of course, young Lord of the Sun. My oath to thee, I gave, and I shall never break it," Shy linked arms with Sora, and off the two of them went, to find the mysterious young Demi-God.
Shy looked at Sora questioningly. Even if she hadn't, her aura said confusion.
Sora's grin remained. "We're at a highschool, Shy. You're going to be around a number of young Demi-Gods… some of them are cousins of mine. Anyway, they've likely never seen a Siren before, and I doubt most of them will know what you are." Hoping his explanation was good, Sora saw that she was pleased.
"You mean easily deceived by my appearance? That's exactly the kind of behaviour I look for in mortals!" Shy's eyes sparkled and she grinned somewhat dangerously. She wasn't thinking about killing the Demi-Gods, as that would literally offend the pantheons. But playing tricks on them wouldn't be out of the question.
"What antics are you planning, I wonder….?" Sora smiled nervously. Her aura said she was being playful and not murderous so he would let it slide.
"Nothing harmful, just something along the lines of seeing who is immune to my singing."
Sora stopped hiding them from mortal eyes, and suddenly there were outbursts. People swarmed Sora and Shy. Looking over his shoulder for Roxas, Sora remembered just now that they were inside the temple. Not too far away.
"Is he cheating on Roxas? She's pretty… but he's got a temper!"
Sora literally had godly hearing, and that one surprised him. Shy noticed his distress, and she was positively starving for attention that only a Siren could crave. She began to sing, and all at once the whispering stopped, and her bewitching melody worked its magic. Though she could tell some of the Demi-Gods were dating, she was amused to see them fall under her spell.
"I've got this, they're in good hands," Shy smiled dangerously. She wouldn't harm them, as she doubted Sora would allow such a thing, and she had made a deal, after all. Nodding her head to the school, Shy continued her song, her contentedness showing as more and more began to swoon and fall under her spell. If the Gods knew she was bewitching their children, it would likely freak them out. But Sora needed to meet with Wolfgang. And it was harmless. The 'love' these Demi-Gods thought they had in seeking her out was merely obsession. Most couldn't make that distinction.
Sora mouthed 'thank you' and ran into the school. The moment he entered, something told him exactly where to go. He just felt it, in his gut. Walking through the hallways, and the teenaged Demi-Gods who were swarming to go outside and listen to Shy sing. He was getting flooded with nostalgia, though he hadn't been here long, it had been life-changing. Literally. Walking outside and into the courtyard, he walked toward a weeping willow tree. On the other side was a messy, white-haired Demi-God with grey eyes.
The Demi-God smiled friendly, and knew exactly who he was looking at. Sora was quite literally a legend. Until his and Roxas' ascension, nobody really knew how far 'Heathen Born' Gods could go. Standing up, Wolfgang offered his hand to Sora.
Sora smiled just as casually, and took Wolfgang's hand. He hadn't expected for Wolfgang's handshake to be so firm. At the same time, he did not try his hardest, as he could literally squish Wolfgang's hand.
"What a wonderful handshake. I can tell you're someone I can trust," Wolfgang seemed pleased. His aura very much said so.
"Like-wise. I don't know what we're in store for, but The Morrigan says we need your help," Sora wasn't sure how Wolfgang would react to Her name. Most people felt uneasy.
"You actually made nice with The Morrigan…? That's- that's incredible. I'm sure her blessing has its perks," Wolfgang looked surprised. And then he was impressed.
"It's uneasy… The Morrigan isn't allowed to take sides in conflicts. She's supposed to aid them both, and whatever outcome is usually favourable to Them," Sora wasn't talking ill of The Morrigan, either. She was neutral. Unless someone had someone or thing she wanted. But if they refused Her, then those person(s) would be punished by whatever penalty she saw fit.
Wolfgang nodded and listened carefully. Speaking of The Morrigan sent shivers down his spine. "But she favours you, Sora."
"She does. Blessing or curse, The Morrigan chose to interact with me. She still does so, and though she may have indirectly ended my life before, I believe in Her. So I don't ask that you necessarily trust Them, but trust in me," Sora hoped he came off as inspiring and somewhat credible.
"I trust you, son of Artemis. I learned all I needed to know from your handshake," Wolfgang would follow Sora anywhere. He seemed like a cool person… God*. Wolfgang had to mentally scold himself for that one. Sora was technically his superior, and they were not equals anymore.
"Really? That's so cool. I can read palms, but I imagine that's different," Sora could still hear Shy singing, but Wolfgang wasn't bewitched. Had he found his true love, like Sora and Roxas?
Wolfgang nodded in agreement. But he had to change the subject. "Nice touch bringing a Siren, by the way- you really have a knack for taming dangerous creatures, don't you?"
Sora chuckled and scratched the back of his head. "…yeah, I can't argue with that one. I was told we'd be needing her help, and yours. To be honest, I'm not entirely sure. I need to meet with the Fates," Sora would've said more but Wolfgang literally perked up and his aura showed excitement.
"The Fates!? That's like, everyone's fantasy. Not everyone is worthy of their graces," To say Wolfgang wanted to meet them would be an understatement.
"I can take you," Sora instantly offered.
Wolfgang's eyes widened at first and then he put his hand on Sora's shoulder, grinning. "You'd really do that?"
Sora nodded. "Of course! The Fates love visitors! How about we go get Shy, see the Fates, and then go to the temple? Artemis, Roxas, Medusa, and, Elio are waiting."
Wolfgang's aura shown with absolute excitement. "You and Roxas are becoming literal legends, Sora. Meeting you both, and Artemis. Elio, and Medusa? I feel like I'm dreaming," Wolfgang literally pinched himself.
"You're not. It's just finally your time. All Demi-Gods have a place and time to be chosen… I just didn't have time to make you dream," Sora offered his hand to Wolfgang who instantly took it.
Wolfgang was surprised when they walked out to the courtyard and Shy stopped singing, nobody approached Sora. Lots of people stayed by Shy, but the Siren turned her attention to Sora and Wolfgang. She 'felt' Sora more than saw him. The instant Sora interlocked his hand with hers, the Demi-Gods stopped swarming and collectively groaned in disappointment.
Instantly being transported into Sora's temple was something Wolfgang wasn't sure he could get used to. He felt nauseous. Shy laughed at him. Not in a mean way, but more playfully amused.
Wolfgang would've said something clever, but he literally didn't want to risk barfing in the temple of the Great Sora/Roxas. It was also a gift from Artemis, and offending her and the Olympian's was not on his to do list. To his surprise, Roxas instantly came over— was that a godly power? Wolfgang saw a literal blur, then he felt soothed and there was some sort of green pretty light when Roxas spoke words that went over the Demi-God's head.
"Thanks for that," Wolfgang perked up, and smiled at Roxas. He offered his hand to shake, just like prior with Sora.
"Don't worry about it, you're part of the crew now, right?" Roxas had been waiting with the others for Sora and Shy to comeback with their Demi-God. If he were being honest, Roxas would say Wolfgang was attractive. But he was out of the dating game and had no plans to anger Sora, who had a scary other form.
Taking Wolfgang's hand, Roxas and him shook firmly and like old friends, something that delighted the Demi-God. "You've got a trustworthy friend's handshake, Roxas. Don't get me wrong- I didn't think you were untrustworthy, I just didn't have the luxury of meeting you both when you were at the school," Hoping he explained well, Wolfgang was instantly relieved when Roxas' somewhat surprised reaction turned to him chuckling.
"You're just like Sora, talking about how special hands are," Roxas remembered when Sora read his palm for him. Ironically, he'd told the blond that he was picky about love. Yet he fell almost instantly for Sora. Roxas nodded to the sentiment. "It's disheartening, isn't it? Not being chosen, and waiting… If I hadn't met Sora, I wonder who would've been standing here, instead of me…," Roxas scratched the back of his head. He glanced at Artemis, then Sora, who were eerily giving him the same look. Artemis was being earnest, and loving in a familial type of way, and Sora, well, he loved Roxas who felt so lucky.
"It's okay, it just gave me more time to prepare before meeting the both of you. Honestly? I'd say it's worth the wait. We who grew up here, know all the stories of how the Gods, in their infinite wisdom placed all of us in Hollow Bastion… Locked away, in the case of Ragnarok coming to fruition… Just kinda sucks that it all ended up being true- the literal end of the Old World to begin the new, our parentage to be a kept secret, can't have superficial caste systems and Demi-Gods fighting over squabbles from their own parents..,"
Wolfgang felt like he was prattling on. It was all standard stuff they were being taught. But Sora looked at him like he was truly interested, Roxas kinda had a 'heard it before' demeanour, but he wasn't being rude.
Shy couldn't share that sentiment. When Roxas and Wolfgang spoke about 'not being picked', she didn't understand. Whenever she wanted someone to die - a man - she would literally just sing and strip away his free will. Glancing at Sora, who looked at her the same time, she mouthed the words 'not picked' and looked questioningly. This was the will of the Gods, and she lived out in the seas, forgive her ignorance.
"The Gods had many beloved children and couldn't bare to part with them-" Sora looked at Artemis who looked sad at the mention of this, but nodded. "-so to keep us safe, and prevent the end of all humanity, they placed us here, in a town unlike anything I've ever seen of experienced before… Barriers had to be put in place, by powerful Gods and Goddesses of Magic, so the town could be safe, and out of reach from the monsters unleashed by the original Ragnarok. There were Gods who specifically governed the town, but they're gone now," Sora hoped he gave a satisfying explanation of Hollow Bastion as he understood it.
Artemis spoke up, so the group could have more clarity. "Your protection came at a cost… we who bore you all were forced to give up our claim to the Demi-Gods birthed. The Kings and Queens of our Pantheons commanded it, and so it was,"
"I hope you don't find me rude, Artemis, but how come Sora, and, Vanitas weren't in Hollow Bastion?" Wolfgang just didn't understand, and wasn't trying to make it seem like Sora and his twin got preferential treatment.
"They were on their way… Their guardians were devout followers of mine, who were unjustly killed for harbouring my children. At that time, a God of Death used Heartless to try and kill my sons…" Artemis didn't like speaking about that time, because it had frightened her in a way she had never been before. As a mother, she felt positively helpless. And as a Goddess, that was definitely an alien feeling. Without noticing it, Artemis began to grip her bow and arrows tightly.
Sora nodded and listened to the bittersweet news. "It's okay, Mom. You would've been there with us. What matters, is you're here now… I never dreamed an Olympian would be my parent, or the fact that it could be you, Artemis. I don't mean to offend, I just-"
Sora found himself stumbling to finish the sentence, so he hugged Artemis instead. Artemis hugged him tightly, just as she had done when he died during Ragnarok. "I never dreamed I would have children, or that they would eventually have their own… You all make me proud, each and every one of you," Artemis looked at Roxas, and, Elio as she spoke. Of course she meant Sora and Vanitas, too.
"I'm glad I don't disappoint," Roxas smiled at her, thankful Artemis of all Gods said she was proud of him. His mother, too, had been taken away early. Roxas would be forever grateful to his Grandma, but part of him missed having a mom. He joined the hug.
Shy and Wolfgang awkwardly stood there, that is until Sora clued in they were left out. Wolfgang also seemed to be missing a motherly figure. "Come on, guys," Sora nodded to them, and Wolfgang could never give up the chance to get so close to the heroes from Hollow Bastion, and, Artemis. They were literal legends. Of course, a Siren like Shy was also exceedingly rare. He'd have to fanboy about this later.
Sora felt rather than saw another presence. The hair's on the back of his neck were standing up. He shuddered. Then their eyes met. Sora was surprised to see a being that closely resembled himself in his other form. They were eerily of similar height.
'Remember. Remember your destiny. Gods have lost their way, stepped out of bounds and their intended purpose- together we will show them the way.'
Sora stared so deeply at the figure, he was surprised when it appeared to be just the two of them, as if everyone else simply faded away. The room they were in pulsated with Darkness, and Sora was weary. He couldn't get an aura reading on him, so all he had was gut instinct- something told Sora to run. But his legs stayed in place. "W-Who are you?"
'You have forgotten,'
The shadowy figure seemed disappointed, and sighed.
"I-I don't think that I know you-" Sora had a hard time admitting that one out loud. He usually knew every God and creature that came across his path, but the exception to this were figures who appeared dreamlike.
'Fret not- in time, you will remember, my shadow.'
The figure seemed to be male, and reached out to Sora. When his hand caressed Sora's face, Sora could feel the cold. It was just like Poliahu's breeze, Thanatos' touch, Erebus' grasping his shoulder, and he was surely forgetting a few here and there. Something about it also felt so… nostalgic. Sora inhaled sharply, in pain. His brain was going into overdrive. It was a mixture of fear, since this being still didn't name itself, and deja vu. Sora took in a sharp breath, as his head was now pounding. The pain was very much not welcomed. It felt like a migraine, and started where the shadow person had touched him.
Sora was getting bits and pieces that were stitched together. Fragments, and sequences of events that he couldn't have possibly seen. They predated him by thousands of years. It was a bloody battlefield, covered with Gods warring in a fight eerily similar to the Titan War. Sora knew of that because it was pretty much infamous, not because he was actually there. But from what he could see, it was devastating. Eventually, he found himself fighting in the place of the shadowy figure. There was a God Sora didn't recognize, who spoke the words: It ends here, brother.
From what Sora pieced together, it did. His armour was broken, and he was exhausted. He could feel the disappointment and anguish of defeat- knowing that he had failed and displeased his consort. The God in question wasn't holding his usual spade, or snake-dragon, but a weapon that looked unlike anything Sora had seen before. It went through his torso, and Sora now felt anger. He was mother's favourite, he had her blessing, she told him of his importance and how he would rule not just his pantheon- but all of them. Were they all just lies? In either case, Sora felt himself slipping away from consciousness, into a familiar sensation- the cold numbness and release of death.
"Stop it…" Sora tried to pull away, but something held him in place, and at the mercy of this being.
The shadow person chuckled, and shook what looked like a face. It seemed that the shadows were hiding it, Sora barely knew it was 'male'.
'We have so much work to do… if you are to become worthy of my grace-'
Though about to elaborate further, his connection to Sora was broken, to his annoyance. The Dreamwalking lover of Sora who ever so enjoyed getting in the way.
"Get the hell away from my husband," Roxas didn't know who or what the figure was, but it didn't seem to be good. In either case, Roxas stood between them and looked back at Sora. "You okay?"
Sora nodded. "I'm always better when you're near," He grinned so wide.
Sighing to itself, the shadowy figure dissipated. There would be no fight- not yet. Soon, he would be back at full power, and all Gods would fall into place. It all begins with Sora. The Dreamwalker would be dealt with in time. Nothing will get in the way. Not again.
Roxas let out a breath he didn't know he was holding in. Turning to face Sora, he immediately pulled the redhead into a hug. "You scared me," Admitting that out loud was a hard one. His legs felt like jelly, and to his surprise, Sora, who he'd been using to anchor himself, also fell back.
"Did I? I'm sorry… It was a shock being brought here…" Sora looked around, and recognized nothing.
"I'm sure it was. Do you have any idea what that thing was?" Roxas honestly didn't. It looked like a shadow come to life. But who— or what could it be?
"I don't, but- it knew me," Sora didn't know how that was possible.
Roxas caressed Sora's face, unwittingly where the shadow person had been touchinng. "Then we'll deal with it together. Whatever happens, I'm with you,"
Sora had leaned into Roxas' touch. It made him feel better. His headache was starting to go away, and Sora was starting to calm down. Looking up at Roxas, Sora was surprised by their height difference. Roxas literally seemd to be growing like a weed, and Sora, oddly enough, was the same height.
Roxas could see Sora was deep in thought, even when their foreheads met. Sora had to stand on his toes for that one, and Roxas chuckled. He couldn't read auras, but sometimes he could tell what other people were thinking. Leaning down a little more, he kissed Sora. The moment their lips met, it felt invigorating for both. As Primordials, and each other's opposites, they complimented each other, seemingly on a spiritual and physical level. Sora's eyes glittered, as he stared in amazement at Roxas. They shared a moment, that Sora would eventually need to break.
"Do you think the others are worried out there? I mean, I guess I must have passed out.. and you followed me in here," Sora suppressed a shudder. He really didn't like this place- it gave the sensation of being watched from all directions.
"I think Artemis is calm, and collected, like usual. Elio? He seems to be very happy with whatever his surroundings are… but Shy and Wolfgang likely aren't used to this," Roxas got the sense that Sora didn't like this place- and they didn't have to stay. Roxas shifted the scenery back to when Hollow Bastion had been illuminated by moonlight and stars only. It was just like when they met.
Sora nodded, and had to agree with Roxas' statements about them. When the dream changed, Sora was blown away. Sure, Roxas was a dreamwalker, but that 'dark' gift was so scarce, that most didn't know the full abilities. "This place is so beautiful… It's kind of a shame that the Gods tucked it away until there was need. I wish we could've saved more people…"
Roxas noticed Sora trail off. "Hey-" Grabbing Sora's hands with his own, Roxas spoke once he had Sora's attention. "-nobody was going to be saved unless you did what you do best… save the day. I'd be shocked and surprised, but it quite literally runs in the family. You're related to so many greats, Sora. Like Heracles, Perseus, Asclepius, and I'm sure I'm forgetting some of Apollo's children…"
"Pan is also one of my cousins through Apollo. But I get it, you know just what to say, all the time. I'm glad that the Fates, Aphrodite, Eros, and however many God/Goddesses of Love out there decided we should be together," Sora grinned happily. It was more deities to thank, but that wasn't really a chore. Sora and Roxas loved honouring the Gods.
