The Great Mage recalled her knowledge of Orario and guided the orb that contained her grandchildren behind her. She knew that if they woke up in their current state, they would be confused but they would be in something that they are already in.
Pain.
They were going to be in even more pain when she had to tell them about what happened to their Goddess. So many different scenarios ran through her head that she almost missed Riveria's directions. "This way, Sofia."
She chose not to respond, still thinking of how she could punish Freya if she isn't punished enough. Dia…you brightened up my life when I thought it wasn't possible. After losing my husband, my daughter and her family were a light, but you were an unexpected but welcome surprise.
"Are you…okay?" This came from her student.
"Truthfully…no…I haven't been for a long time," she responded as the group of adventurers still followed. Sofia was skilled enough to allow the barrier to be open so Mikoto—her darling Isaac's courted—could hold his hand. She purposefully ignored the sniffles and tears.
Without turning around, "Crozzo."
Welf felt his heart pick up its tempo, "Y-Yes?"
"Thank you for being friends with my grandchildren, and I know you think I'm going to come after you for your work's transgressions. Rest assured that I'm not. What happened to the Grove was far worse than magic swords, and I bet they haven't mentioned it." Silence was her answer. "Anyway, this extends to all of you; Thank you for being in my grandkids' lives when I could not," Sofia expressed as they arrived at the clinic.
Amid heard the voice and almost dropped her pen, she rounded the counter and headed towards the door. She only heard of her as a child, before she decided to become a Doctor. Martha and Bernadette almost dropped what they were doing to hear the voice of a once great adventurer. That was proven true as she entered.
A High Elf entered, not Riveria, and behind her was an orb that contained the twins. Despite being shocked beyond belief, her eyes were already tracing for injuries. "Please explain what has transpired."
Sofia's answer was curt, "Critical, Falnaless, broken bones in his chest and wrists, her windpipe is bruised, possible leg strain. More that I could not identify in this short time. Tell me what spell I need to assist you."
"Thank you, bring them in. Martha-"
"Already on it! Bernie, come on!" Martha called for Bernadette as they prepared the table.
The Doctor thought over the words again, "Did you say Falnaless?"
"I did. Lady Dia is no longer alive…in this world," the steel in her voice was ironclad. Internally, she was really worried. Sure, Sofia has medical experience, but that's field medical experience.
Amid sucked in a breath. "You also said spell…what-"
"I can use any spell as long as I know the name and what it does. My Mage ability is SSS, tell me the spell and I can do what I need, but I require your concise medical opinion," the fact that development abilities went above S shocked everyone, even Bell, who was spectating in the background.
"The room's ready!"
Finn observed idly, "Development abilities can go beyond S? How much about the Falna do we not know?"
"Much," Sofia replied, "Even I am only just beginning to understand, and only recently." Finn was in the next room and he heard her reply. Just how well was her hearing?
Bete still felt on edge because of her presence. However, "What happened to the Freya Familia executives?"
A wave of malice washed over the clinic, making the lower leveled people freeze on the spot, and even the higher leveled people tensed, "Do not mention them here, if you would, Wolf. Or do I need to give you what I gave them?"
"Hecate, please stop, you're making my job difficult or do you want to watch them die?" Amid's voice carried in the now silent room. Even as she was gripping the counter to stand, her eyes showed impatience.
Dropping the malice, she cleared her throat, "My apologies." With a wave of her staff, she brought in the unconscious twins. With this much light, everyone bore witness to what happened to them. They were fine until they faced Ottar and Allen.
Both Isaac's and Irene's armor suffered greatly, up to the point where it was almost useless. The discolored finger marks around Irene's neck made Ryuu clench her fists. They were set gently on the table. Bete covered his nose, the smell of blood, sweat, ash, and what smelled like charred flesh burned him. He silently stepped out of the room, at least until he could get used to it.
Mikoto felt tears blur her vision again, and Bell was the one to comfort her. It was just his nature. That, and his grandfather was nagging in his head that he shouldn't let a maiden cry.
Lili covered her mouth, while Haruhime was slowly brought out of the room by Tione and Tiona. That left Welf, Finn, Ais, and Riveria not currently occupied. Sofia inspected her grandchildren then looked at the weapons. They were still intact. Although, she did notice the blood that seemed to shimmer on the blade. So, that Witch came through. I'll have to thank her later.
Amid took one look and sprung into action. She saw his chest was not rising as high as it should. His face was slowly gaining a shade of blue, "Mister Vlahos is critical, that's a sign of a collapsed lung, quick, remove the armor!"
Sofia felt a twinge of panic but easily undid the strap holding it to his chest. Leaning her staff on the opposite counter—with a look to Riveria who understood the silent message, stood by the staff and waited. The armor came off and Sofia wanted to go back and kill Ottar. The bastard almost caved in her baby boy's chest, even with the armor!
"Besides the copious amount of blood on him, I have identified multiple broken bones in his wrists, up to his forearm. Internal bleeding. I need a numbing solution and an IV now. Miss Vlahos, repeat after me," Amid addressed Sofia. She said her spell, not casting it, but to allow Sofia to use it. Once she mumbled it once under her breath, she held a hand out, and her staff was in her hand.
I haven't used this spell in a while. I learned it out of necessity. It was always helpful when pushing through the Dungeon with Alfia. Speaking of, I'll need to talk with Bell. I wonder if he's aware of his heritage. Meteria…your boy has grown but he has more to do.
Riveria's voice could be heard, "Thank you for coming back…"
"Thank me later, once they are on the mend. We are going to have a serious discussion, my former student," Sofia said calmly. She wasn't disowning Riveria as her student but addressing her as such.
"Ready?" Amid asked, just as she finished setting up IVs for both twins. Irene was far more stable but not by very much. Martha and Bernadette have managed to wrap Isaac's arms in casts. They prodded Irene's body to see if there were any. They found none but to be safe, they wrapped her torso in a quick-drying mold.
Cleaning the blood was not an option, so much to her own annoyance, she had to undress Isaac, exposing his chest. The cave-in was much more pronounced now, and it made Mikoto's stomach churn uncomfortably. The scars on his chest were exposed as well, and the knowledge of them being in Lady Nike's arena was coming back. They acquired a lot of them. They never asked and they never told.
Maybe another day.
Finn had bitten his thumb because he was quite nervous. He knew Sofia could absolutely level Orario if she so chose and if they died here tonight. There would be more bloodshed that would make the Dark Days look like daycare.
She could turn on them and they would be powerless to stop her. In a fight, it takes all three of them—Finn, Gareth, and Riveria—to rival Ottar. The difference is that great. Even attempting to challenge the Great Mage, Hecate herself would result in death. He had to abandon his instincts for once to just hope that they live.
If not, the Freya Familia is first, then the Loki Familia, then Ganesha, and so on and so forth until there would be no one left.
Sofia did not answer because she started chanting, "Healing droplets, tears of light, eternal sanctuary. Compose a medicinal hymn-three hundred, sixty, and five."
The magic circle appeared under Sofia's robes, letting them flutter as the magic energy was being collected. The sheer power was enough to make everyone stand back. Amid was the only one who bravely stood there and watched. Amid did not possess the Mage Development Ability, and though she was the most sought out healer in Orario, she was okay with seeing her spell being used like this. The potential for it was grand and she was never enough to showcase it, despite the praise she gets for it. Sofia ignored everything around her, except her daughter's legacy. Melissa, they are not ready to see you again. Quinn, you know he takes so much after you.
"The melody of the healer's almanac saves all things. Come, destruction of evil. The burial of wounds, interment of disease." There was a pleading tone midway through the sentence. She wanted their wounds to go away, never to burden them again. She wanted a lot of things, and she may not get all of them. The one thing she wanted was for them to live.
"Curses be gone in the light of vitality. In the name of all that is holy - I heal you." Sofia opened her eyes and was not surprised to feel tears cascading down her face. She knew the name of the spell, and she hated the fact that she had to be reminded of it. This spell can help, and for the oddest reason, it felt like someone was reaching through the threshold to assist.
*Dia Fratel!*
The room was bathed in bright light.
Just hearing the name 'Dia' sent a wave of unknown sadness to those that heard it. By this point, most of Orario felt this wave of power. None more so than the founding father of Orario. Even though there was a frown on his face, the God sighed.
"Lord Ouranos?" His trusty assistant, a mysterious Sage from a long time past, "you've felt it too?"
"I have. I also felt the sadness and anguish of the name, but also…a small fondness."
The assistant withheld their reaction. That is most unusual, "Is there anything I can do, Lord Ouranos?" The mysterious figure asked.
The God closed his eyes, "Send a message to Hecate, let her know I wish to speak with her. Do this for me swiftly, Fels."
The now named Fels nodded, the cloak shifting slightly. "It will be done." She's in Orario? I shall have to speak to her privately about the weapons. Chances are, she already knows.
Meanwhile, Ouranos was thinking. I wish you could have stayed. You are welcome for the small parting gift, little Dia…
The God opened his eyes, knowing that Fels has left the room, "Now…I must make a decision."
The light of the magic circle encompassed the twins and bathed them in light. With Mage at SSS, the effects were almost immediate. The bruises faded from their skin and Irene's injuries healed up fine. Isaac's…not as much as Amid was hoping.
That could only mean…
"Is he…" Mikoto's voice was timid, she could feel her heart breaking.
Amid checked his pulse, and she was relieved that she felt it. She let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. "He's alive, barely. His pulse is weak but strong enough to keep him alive. However, with Hecate using the spell over the next day, we must watch him closely." The cave-in on his chest was repaired, a small discoloration was left on his skin. Amid felt his bones were repaired, and looks like there would be no permanent damage.
Sofia took a deep breath and lowered her staff. It was then that they saw her start to cry. "They'll live…thank you…Dia…"
Riveria was the first to move and embrace her teacher, "They're alive…you saved them." This moment felt more than just teacher and student, not lovers, but friends. Maybe even family embracing. Right now, she wasn't Hecate, she was a very concerned grandmother that didn't want to see her family suffer any more than they already are.
Notably, Hestia and Loki have been absent the entire time. That was because they were busy getting something prepared. Something that Dia had in case this ever happened.
"I would have lived with the regret of not seeing them," she cried softly into her student's shoulder. "I just don't want them to hate me…"
Riveria didn't have a proper response to that.
Once Sofia stopped crying, Amid wordlessly handed her tissues. Martha continued to make checks over Isaac while Bernadette made checks over Irene.
Taking a deep breath, Sofia began to chant once more, "Spirits of Fire, Wind, Water, and Earth, come to my aid! Restore what was once lost!"
*Enhance!*
A magic circle that revolves around four different colors appeared, flashed, then disappeared. The Great Mage felt the effects kick in immediately. She wasn't tired, but it was working against the drain of sustaining Dia Fratel.
"What was that?" Amid asked.
She still wasn't done. Sofia once again focused and started chanting, "Hecate, Goddess of Magic, of whom I am named after. Lend me your power in this crisis. Fill thy vessel with your blessing. Let thy vessel show they are worthy of thy name!"
*Hecate's Surge!*
"This one increased my Mind capacity. I can now hold Dia Fratel for over the next thirteen weeks without pause," she said with a tired smile. "Even if I'm sleeping, I can still hold the spell."
Hestia and Loki looked at Sofia with wonder. Loki thought to herself, I wonder if I could get her in my Familia.
Or so she thought it was to herself. "Not happening, Female Zeus," Sofia shot that down. Riveria leveled an exasperated look at her patron goddess. "I still am very upset about what you and that bitch Freya did to us. You realize that those that survived the expedition—of which there were few—all died, no thanks to you all. Not to mention, when we asked for your assistance, you decided that power was more important. Not to mention you exiled a very pregnant woman. You're just lucky the child survived and didn't inherit her illness."
This information made everyone's stomach churn. "Who was it? No one in the Zeus and Hera Familias was pregnant at that time."
"Wrong, only one, and she was the kindest person in both Familias. Everyone would have dropped everything just to make sure she was comfortable, and even Hera admitted she was her favorite child," Sofia said, dropping hints with a quick glance at the only one who could ever be as close to her as possible.
Riveria caught the glance but not to whom it was. What is she implying? Everyone was on that side of the room, and she didn't catch who her eyes were locked onto.
She turned to Finn, "And you, with your idea of having a Prum heir, will mean nothing if you don't adapt to the situation. Your ideals about some things leave plenty to be desired."
Tione walked in to hear slander about her Captain. Just as she was about to make a move, a weight was placed on her shoulders.
"Stay out of it," Sofia warned. Off to the side, Ais was watching this all go down. She knew intervening would lead to the situation that Tione was in.
"Hera and Zeus never cared about power like you, Loki. Maybe I'm wrong and you've changed, it wouldn't be the first deity to change and it wouldn't be the first time I was wrong." She dropped her hostility and sighed, "You all need to relearn what it means to be an adventurer." She turned to Amid, "Apologies for asking so late, but what is your name?"
Loki didn't react outwardly and the Trickster found herself feeling internally sheepish. Sofia was right, she did change, and she hoped it was for the better.
"Airmid Teasanare, alias Dea Saint of the Dian Cecht Familia," Amid said with a small curtsy.
"Good, then I have something for you," Sofia said before reaching into her robes and pulling out a book. This wasn't just any old book though. It was a kind of book that any adventurer could recognize. A Grimoire. "This could prove useful to you. I was given this by my old Captain years ago. It's a medicinal Grimoire, one that would be far more useful to you than to me."
Amid didn't know what to say, "I-"
"Don't even think about denying it, I can most likely call up whatever this spell is eventually," Sofia said before putting the book in her hands. "Consider it a thank you and payment for housing my grandchildren. I'm aware they were here before."
Ais had a burning question, "What can you-"
Seeing that look in her eyes, she quelled that line of thought quickly, "Silence, young wind. You have the spirit of a great fighter but I will not be telling you," Sofia said watching as the young blonde froze on the spot. "Too many died and I'm not going to burden myself with another slaughter. Just think of your connections, and wonder why they exist." A look of confusion passed on most people, but the Loki Familia members understood very well what Sofia was implying.
"I've heard a few things about Orario since I last visited, so who wants to start us off?" Sofia asked.
Seeing the conversation shift, Bell—still comforting Mikoto—started off, "This happened when I first got to Orario…"
Hestia and Loki were off to the side, "We have to go through with it. She begged us to…"
"I know, Hestia, but now isn't the time. They aren't even awake yet."
In the two Goddesses' hands was a small little box, with a name on them in Dia's handwriting.
One box for a Isaac Vlahos.
And one box for a Irene Vlahos.
The rest of the night passed without incident. Sofia just gazed at her slumbering grandchildren, watching the spell's power wrap around them. The only one who stayed was Riveria. "Did you know that you have a grave here?"
"Oh?" Simply answering the question. "I don't suppose there's a grave for Alfia or Meteria, right?"
A confused jade eyebrow, "Why?"
Sofia stared dumbly at Riveria, "You mean to tell me you haven't noticed the similarities?"
"Of…"
"My goodness and I thought my observational skills were lacking," she muttered. "I'll explain it later but I want you to think of what they looked like. White hair. Who else has it?"
Riveria was already trying to string it together, "Wait…you mean th-"
"Glad you finally got it. I'm telling you as my student. So, you are not to tell your Familia, yet. I will reveal that later but for now…tell me about my grand kiddies adventurers here, in as much detail as possible."
So, the young elven princess did. From how she first met them in the Dungeon of all places, watching the young Cranel fight a Minotaur at level one. Then, she jumped to the town of the eighteenth floor, and that's where the first snag was hit.
"What happened down there? Riveria, you of all people, are the closest to them outside of Dia. Tell me."
"Well, this is where you'll have to ask him yourself. I know not of what he encountered but he was put on the thirty-seventh floor by the…Familia who shall not be named." So, the Freya Familia. "When we found him within the Water Capital, he looked fine, but his eyes expressed that he was hiding something."
The Xenos most likely. I want the story from him, Sofia thought, looking at her grandson. She looked at her granddaughter next, "What of her? How did she take it?" Sofia watched Riveria grimace. That answered the question. "They never did like being far from each other unless they couldn't help it."
"She…had a panic attack," Riveria admitted, looking at Irene before stroking her hair. "Bete was actually the one to call her down."
"Bete's the disrespectful werewolf, isn't he?" Sofia asked with a glint in her eye.
Riveria smirked, "As much as I want you to, don't antagonize him."
"Whatever do you mean? I just want to talk," she joked back. "You always were a stickler."
"My apologies for having ideals stuck in my head for years that have only started being broken," Riveria snarked back.
"So, what else happened?"
Riveria launched into another explanation of what happened after the War Game. She explained what happened, but again, Sofia needed to ask the twins about their experiences. The elder High Elf fell into deep thought, which Riveria noticed and fell silent as well.
She then stood up, "Gather everyone here, it's time I explain everything and finally use the activation key I received years ago."
Activation key? What was her former teacher talking about?
Once everyone that wanted to be there was, Sofia stared at all of them, scrutinizing. Hestia, Loki, Bell, Welf, Lili, Mikoto, Haruhime, Finn, Gareth, Riveria, Tione, Tiona, Ais, Bete, Ryuu, a cute elf named Lefiya, and an above-average elf named Alicia.
"So you're Hecate?" Alicia asked.
"I am," a curt response.
"I apologize for my transgression, Lady Sofia!" Alicia bowed.
Sofia looked amused, "Riveria, does this happen often?" A nod. "I see. Raise your head." Alicia did so. Sofia walked forward and as gently as she could, flicked her forehead. "I may be a High Elf but drop that formality. The number of times I had to discipline the elves in my Familia was too high. They never understood why I don't like being treated like I'm a piece of glass. I can almost guarantee that Riveria feels the same way and has expressed that to your face."
Alicia held her head as she glanced up seeing an amused smile. "That's-"
"Alicia, I'd listen to her, because her discipline is…varied," Riveria warned, not acknowledging the former's last statement. The small shiver up her spine wasn't unnoticed. Sofia's smile shifted, and it was the same smile Isaac got sometimes when he had a devious idea or when he was having a good time.
Lefiya pacified instantly, and she didn't like how Miss Ais was standing close to that human, Bell. So, the elf took the other side of her.
Mikoto, of course, found herself at Isaac's bedside. Her hand covered his but her attention was on Sofia, their grandmother. The concealed glances from her weren't unnoticed and it made Mikoto blush. The casts were slightly in the way, but nothing hindered from her touching his open fingers...
As for the twins, they were placed on a bed, this one easily separated from itself. They have since moved from last night from one bed to another and the whole ensemble was in the room, making it seem really small. Sofia was seated in the middle, Riveria across the bed on Irene's side, staring intently. "I knew I should have come back sooner, maybe this could have been avoided."
"Woah woah woah, before we talk about them, we need to ask questions," Loki said, staring intently at Sofia, "where the hell ya been? Everyone, including the twins, thought you were dead! And they didn't lie about it either...The fact that you still have your power means that-"
"Indeed, Lord Zeus is still alive. He went into hiding for a while, and once he cleaned his hands of a responsibility," a subtle glance to Bell, which the two Goddess caught onto, "he sought me out knowing I was still alive, the connections of my Falna to him. Surprisingly enough, after the Black Dragon wiped most of us out, I and a few others managed to survive like I previously mentioned. I knew returning to Orario was a death sentence. No one believed me, of course, and well...I know that you played no small part in it, Braver, Elgram...For all I know, I am one of the last people that remain in the Zeus Familia."
"One of?" Bell asked.
A smile, "I'll get to that, young Cranel." Riveria looked back and forth and the dots seemed to start connecting.
The three familia executives flinched at the reminder, leaving everyone under the age of twenty-two confused. Riveria still only stared at Sofia, then glanced at the twins. In Sofia's hand was the gift they made for Dia. It was their only reminder of her physical existence. Sofia managed to pry it from their grasp, and she hadn't cleaned it. The blood dried on it. The Grandmother ran her fingers over it, signing softly. The twins' breathing once again was in sync.
"So, I hid myself, and Zeus was kind enough to have someone keep tabs on the grandkids."
Hestia and Loki signed in unison, ""Hermes."" Sofia nodded again. Cue Bell's 'Eh?' and everyone else's surprise.
"As shifty as he is, he does give reliable information. Thankfully, I only had to throw him once," Sofia said as she looked softly at her grandkids. She still remembers when they were born. "Has he done anything recently?"
Everyone was quiet.
"He's got his hands in everything…I'll teach him a lesson."
"I thought the Zeus Familia was all men," Welf brought up.
A smug look of pride, "Someone had to put the men in their place, even Lord Zeus. I still stuck by the women whenever I could. I know this will sound arrogant, but I had to prove that I wasn't one to sit idle. After all, saving their sorry butts more than once gets their opinion to change pretty quick. I was basically an honorary member of Hera Familia for most of my adventuring career. If it had been allowed and my body could handle the strain, I would have had both of their blessings on my back. I was unwilling to risk it, so it never went anywhere."
Continuing on, "That leads me to ask this. Which one of you is going to claim them?" The question was clearly directed at Loki and Hestia.
The two Goddesses looked at each other, azure meeting vermillion before they both turned back to Sofia and shrugged, sending the entire group in another state of shock. "You mean you don't know?" Mikoto asked. Sofia raised an eyebrow, her valis was on Hestia, who could use some more members.
"Mikoto, listen," Hestia started, "When we created the alliance, Dia made us see to a demand she had, completely selfless of her. She wanted us to let them have a choice. As much as I'd love to have them in our familia, I can't force that choice on them. I won't be Freya," The big-busty Goddess sighed, "I know what Isaac means to you, and how much you mean to him, but what if they don't want to be in another familia, in fear of bringing us or Loki into ruin? Which I don't think will happen but…"
"No offense taken," Sofia waved off the concern.
Loki chimed in, "Hate to agree with Itty...Hestia...here, but as she said, that choice isn't ours to make, it's theirs, not to mention that their falna wouldn't activate unless they accept it. Dia was sure that they couldn't be poached so easily. We both know their Falnas are exposed and I won't lie and say I'm not curious."
Sofia giggled, drawing the attention back to her. "There is something that I had asked Zeus before Dia ever managed to get them. This involves that activation key I mentioned, Riveria. While they are members of Dia's Familia, they actually had a falna sealed by Zeus, per my request." Everyone's eyes bulged at this information, none more so than Finn and Gareth. Even Ais's eyes widened a tad. "They didn't have any special advantages, aside from the excelia that was stored in it. A little-known fact, they leveled up at the fastest rate possible, even though it took a few years. Their stats were maxed out. They got it when they were two. Once they had Dia's falna applied, those stats became their baseline. So at level one, they were already level two by stats, and once they were level two, they felt like level threes, in terms of stats." The Great Mage explained this like she was talking about the weather. "It must have scaled well."
That sounds familiar… Bell thought to himself. He had to admit, his status was abnormal, by a longshot. Do I have a hidden falna?
His questions went unanswered and he disregarded the thought, "Of course, they didn't know that, as it took them three years to reach level two proper." The power of a sealed falna was varied, and usually unreliable, which is why it is never used...anymore at least. "I'm also aware that they were used for spy work but they were unaware of this happening as I used a sedative spell, just enough to knock them out. Riveria, help me roll them over?" The former teacher asked her former student.
"You knocked out your own grandkids for that pervert to put a falna on them?" Loki asked.
"Says the lesbian pervert herself...oh the irony. It was for their protection, and it was necessary as what happened years later. A precaution, and it worked. Dia was informed so she already knew," Sofia explained with a blank face.
Ryuu spoke up, "So you…scouted…them for her Familia?"
The High Elf regarded the barmaid elf, "That's one way to put it. I knew from the first time Dia met the twins that she wanted them as her founding members. The look in her eyes was enough to see the gentle soul she housed within her divine being. Dia is a Goddess of Fertility and Growth, and she saw the potential for them. I never denied her, because…" she trailed off as the memories came back.
No one commented or even stopped to ask. The veterans could see the pain hidden behind it all. It never was an easy life as an adventurer. You could die the next day and no one would miss you.
"Do you all know how long Dia has been in the lower world, and how long she's had a Familia?"
No one answered because no one knew.
"Seven hundred and fifty-six years. And her Familia has been around for the past decade," Sofia revealed. Loki's eyes opened in shock. "My two grandchildren were the first and only members of her Familia."
"She's been in the lower world longer than I have!" Loki exclaimed. "I arrived a little over six hundred years ago," she clarified. "How come I never saw her?"
Sofia turned to look out the window, "Dia rarely made appearances in the Manor—or Orario for that matter—and I only saw her a couple of times. She was our financial officer if that means anything to anyone. Loved seeing her bright spirit when the Familia had a few fights. She was the only one to not have Zeus actively attempt to peek. Next question."
Ais brought up the courage to ask a question that has been on her mind ever since they let out their intent, "Why do they feel higher than they actually are?"
A click of her tongue, "Ah, this actually ties in with the hidden falna and that's because it's gotten to the point where I need to activate it for it to take effect. Riveria."
Amid peeked in the room and allowed this to happen. The twins' injuries were better but their minds were still out of it. The stripping of their status was a sudden shock. Removing a falna but their consent would be less painful and physically draining. The way it was removed was like pulling a serrated knife out of a wound. If a deity is forcibly returned to Tenkai, it hurts but since the twins were injured, exhausted, and tired. The shock of it being removed…put them in a shock.
"You can move them gently, and no sudden movements, everyone else should move back," the doctor said. "Irene's chest cast was left open on the back, just enough to manipulate her status." She could take it off, but Amid will leave nothing to chance.
Everyone shuffled back, except Mikoto. "Future granddaughter, you can help. Bell, was it?" Sofia turned to the white rabbit. He inclined his head, "I have information about your parents if you would like to hear it." When she saw his look of shock, she continued, "Don't answer now. Think it over and seek me out. I don't plan on staying in Orario and if they choose to follow, you can't stop them."
"My…my parents…I never knew anything about them." Everything she could say would be new information.
"That piece of shit…" Sofia hissed in elvish. Only four people in the room understood what she said, but only one knew more. She turned to Ryuu, "I want to know something from you and I expect an answer."
"Y-Yes, Lady Sofia. Sorry, force of habit," she said, switching languages halfway through. Does she know?
Lefiya spoke now, her curiosity easily visible behind her eyes. It's not every day that you meet a legendary adventurer that you've only heard of by story or word-of-mouth. "What do you plan on doing?"
"Isn't it obvious little Viridis? I'm going to update my grandkids' status. I need their backs exposed. Just because they currently do not possess a blessing does not mean the blessing never existed in the first place. This will help with injuries and get them to wake up faster so I can break the news to them, and so they can get their anger out on me because I deserve it," Sofia replied with a sad smile. Her eyes expressed so much pain that the group only began to realize the extent of her actions.
"What's breaking this seal going to do to them?" Riveria asked. "This won't-"
"It will not harm them, but they will need to rest as their bodies adjust to this influx of excelia. It's been stored for over a decade. They are level four, right?"
"According to Guild Records, yes, but they've often been reported to exude an aura not befitting of their status," Hestia said, remembering that Dia mentioned it. Of course, neither one of them said it aloud, but now it finally clicked into place.
Loki interjected, "Many gods suspected she was boosting their falna with Arcanum, and Dia knew that would be a banishment, so it couldn't possibly be the case."
"I see." Sofia quickly bit her thumb, drawing blood, and gently unlocked both of her grandchildren's now inactive statuses. The ambient light from their statuses filled the room, and the twins shifted uncomfortably, but neither stirred enough to wake up. Sofia's face changed into a concentrated frown as she dug deep into both of the status pages that floated off their backs. With a few hand movements, the room flashed, making everyone avert their eyes. Hestia and Loki watched on in abject horror, but not for the reason one might think.
Hecate can crack status locks. She was a walking Status Thief! She easily could bypass any lock that a God can place on their children. "Just how?"
"I learned a few things while I was with the old pervert that I call my God. He gave me permission to 'temporarily' use his power, more closely, this is that activation key—a one-time use to 'pretend' to be a Goddess. This is the only time I will be able to forcibly manipulate falna and excelia like this. Zeus didn't want to come, for more than one reason," Sofia explained. She looked up from their backs. "So you two petty Goddesses can quit your worrying, this won't happen again. I'll just have to...ah perfect." Sofia had finished and everyone felt the increase immediately. "I can feel that Isaac does not like one of his skills…"
"He told me about it," Mikoto spoke up, grateful that she didn't stutter.
"Elaborate, future granddaughter," Sofia teased, which got Mikoto to blush…again. Mikoto knew that meant she was given a stamp of approval to continue courting her grandson.
"If he's critically injured, in any sense physically, emotionally, or mentally his status at that moment is doubled. Meaning that if it happened now, he'd be level eight, possibly higher."
The Great Mage sighed, "That could explain the magic stone shattered with that amount of force. The pieces were like shattered glass, not to mention the Ottar-shaped hole in the wall..." Sofia said, wondering how much he bottled up. "I really need to hear the stories because it sounds like it's been quite a wild three months."
She's not lying, both Goddesses thought.
"From what I saw, he detests the skill, even though it saved his life." Then her gaze went to Irene, "I saw that she inherited the Keys."
Riveria nodded, "And she learned quite a lot of spells in under a week."
"Well, she better have! I taught you a lot. You wouldn't be as near as good at Concurrent Chanting without me, right?"
Finn and Gareth looked to Sofia in surprise, then to Riveria. "You're right, and it has helped me more than you'll ever know."
"Good, now to add the final touches...and voila! Say hello to the newest level fives, and their stats are at least rank D! Don't know how, but I won't question it. Well, pending on what they decide." The implication was left unsaid.
Everyone was floored. The twins squirmed before relaxing. Sofia then closed their statuses and pushed them back into their bodies. The symbol was still Dia's, but heavily faded. "There you go, my two kiddies, you have your true statuses now…" she then had Riveria lay them down again and covered them up.
The atmosphere became serious once more. "So, now you can ask what's on your mind."
"You've been hiding out for this long?" Welf brought up.
Sofia looked over to him, and with a smile, "You've been taking care of my grand kiddies' armor and weapons, right?" Welf nodded, surprised at the turn of questioning. "To answer you, since the Zeus Familia was banished alongside Hera, we all left and settled where we could. But before the banishment, I had left to go visit my daughter, and at that time, she had been married for a few years now, and I was going to meet the Husband. Obviously, when I got there, I had noticed she was carrying. Riveria was my student for almost two decades at that point, so when I left-"
"I was more than concerned," Riveria put a hand to her temple.
"Indeed," Sofia teased. "So I got in contact with Zeus and had him bestow a small blessing on these two after they were born, giving them a falna, so they aren't Demi-Gods, I assure you. As I mentioned, a precaution. So it wasn't hiding, per se, just very fortunate circumstances that helped."
Gareth had a question, but it was more of a statement, "You're stronger than before, aren't you?"
"Very astute, Gareth. More on that in a moment."
Bete had a question, "Why did these weaklings feel stronger than they actually were? With their killing intent?"
Sofia gained a tick mark on her head as everyone stepped away from the wolf. "I'll give you a chance to rephrase that before I find out how good roasted wolf is." The intent that Bete felt made him want to cower in a hole. "Not to mention you just insulted my family, and I know a great many spells that can wipe you off the face of the planet. That attitude of yours needs to go."
Oddly enough, no one else felt the intent, looking between the two in slight confusion. "O-Okay! Lighten up!" The intent dropped and Bete breathed a sigh, "Why are they more powerful when they release their intent? I know everyone here has felt it at least once."
Like they knew it was coming, an aura that the twins were giving off was one of distress, they fidgeted and squirmed in the bed. Tears came to their eyes, and they were murmuring "Dia," over and over again.
Sofia's expression hardened, "Nothing is really stopping me from leveling their home, but…" she had to lower her oppressive presence to a manageable level. "I'd rather not cause a city-wide incident. But if Ouranos doesn't punish her enough, then I will."
Everyone took a step back, except Mikoto, who stood on shaky legs. "This feels like it did at Master Apollo's Ball…" everyone looked to the samurai, "think about it. They felt like they were first-tier adventurers when we knew they were only level three…"
The aura the twins gave off faded and their breathing resumed as normal. Sofia stroked their heads.
Sofia turned to Isaac's courted, "That would be a side effect of the hidden falna, as if they get hopped up on an emotion or feeling, they exude the power hidden. It's built up over the past decade, so I guess you can say that it was leaking...per se. Does this answer your question, little puppy?" Bete almost snapped back but the building magic energy said otherwise.
"Please do not demolish the clinic," Amid said.
"Yes, Doctor," Sofia said, letting the magic energy dispel.
The Amazon twins were silent up to this point, only because if Tione did not keep Tiona silent, she would've butt in multiple times at this point. "How can you do that?"
"Practice, the number of times I blew myself up was not pretty." Dumbfounded looks, "What? Everyone started from somewhere you know? I didn't become the 'Great Mage' or Hecate overnight."
Loki had a better question, "Did Dia ever know about this?"
Sofia nodded her head, "Yes, she did. In fact, I told her about it before…that day. Judging by your tone, you didn't know why but were suspicious of their actions?"
Finn interjected, "The general consensus was how they felt higher leveled than they actually were. That was the first and only clue. Hidden falnas are so rare that there isn't any documented information on them."
"I see," Sofia accepted that, before turning to Mikoto, "So, when can I expect a great-grandchild? I'm not getting any younger here." A motherly smile greeted Mikoto's blushing face. If she wasn't embarrassed then, she should be now.
The swift change of topic worked as the elves in the room blushed, Ryuu especially. "We've only been on one date...and we k-kissed once…a lot..." she admitted softly.
"At least he's taking it slow," Sofia said, praising her grandson. "Now, we should let them rest, because I believe I have business with Orario. They need to know that Hecate is back, and she is very very angry at what has transpired over the past day."
Everyone took a step back again, except for Riveria, who didn't smile, but her eyes expressed how she felt, something that Sofia noticed.
Hestia asked, "Is there another skill there?"
Thinking back, calming down, "There was, and I believe that it showed up to compensate for the excelia that was going to the hidden falna. That explains the growth for both of them. With skills like those, they'll catch up to me in no time. Even though I hit double digits fairly recently, they could easily surpass me!" Sofia giggled like it was an inside joke. With a look to Gareth, the dwarf understood immediately.
Riveria looked at her mentor with surprise, "That means…"
"Indeed, I am level ten, the only level ten in existence I daresay," Sofia admitted with a smile. Again, it was one that Irene would show all the time, but the twisting of her mouth reminded them of Isaac. Genetics at work. "That decade quest took me a long time, but the beast I took on alone was a thrill. I'm not surprised you haven't heard of a Spirit Tortoise, but that is no longer a problem."
Everyone gaped at the Great Mage. Lili recovered the fastest, "Lili wants to know what you plan to do. You say your leaving, but what Lili wants to know is which Familia do they plan to join once they wake up, if they chose to join at all?"
Hestia and Loki looked at each other uneasily. "That…is something we should bring up before you go." They brushed over the topic recently and the Prum didn't miss the avoidance of her Goddess or Goddess Loki.
Hecate looked at them with a raised eyebrow. That was a sign for them to continue. Hestia continued, crossing her arms over her large chest, "Dia, Loki, and I all had a conversation a while back. When Mikoto went on her date with Isaac."
Dia gestured to the two Goddesses inside the Complex, guiding them up to the office. Once she sat down on her office chair, gesturing to them to do the same. Dia then activated her Arcanum for a moment.
Seeing the shocked and fearful looks, she spoke, "I got permission to make this room soundproof for the duration of our meeting which requires active Arcanum. Now onto business…Freya is after my children." The power wasn't major but after not using it for so long, they almost forgot what it was like.
""What?""
"Exactly as I said, she is going to poach them. So my time is limited."
"Wait, but she can't just-"
"Somehow, she will," Dia cut Hestia off. The serious side of Dia was out and it was not going to go back until this conversation was over.
The Trickster opened her eyes, "So, what do you want us to do?"
"I want you to offer them a spot in your familias."
Hestia and Loki looked at one another, then back to the jade-eyed ravenette, "Who goes where?"
A question that she expected. Dia allowed herself a smug grin, "Wherever they want to go, and if it's not in yours, then you help them get in whatever one they want. If they both go to one of you, then accept it. Loki, I imagine Riveria would care for them?"
The vermillion Goddess nodded, "Riveria mamas them just as much as my little Aizu. There wouldn't be a problem."
Nodding, "Hestia, you'd appreciate two experienced fighters to help Bell and the rest of your Familia."
The loli Goddess nodded as well, "Yes, they could defend Bell from all the other women!"
Dia slammed a hand on the desk, "Understand that I'm going to be short here, it doesn't matter. Let your child be happy with whoever he wants to be. Don't be possessive, Hestia. Loki, stop sniggering or you won't have a chance. Do I need to bring up a prank that I covered up for you? The one that almost caused Armageddon?"
Loki paled, "You said you wouldn't say anything!"
"Try me," neither Goddess wanted to call her bluff. "Now, I have a selfish request. Since Isaac's courted is in Hestia's Familia, and their mother figure in Loki's Familia. If Isaac goes to Hestia and Irene goes to Loki, you two have to make an alliance. I will not allow your petty bickering to come between my children's safety," Dia laid out her one request. If either one noticed the slightly pleading expression on Dia's face, they said nothing. "Just do this for me, and not a word to your Familias. I am not dragging my friends into a war and risking their children."
"Don't you think they should know?"
"The twins are aware of Freya's methods. After all, why do you think this meeting is taking place?" Dia questioned. "Freya has been waiting this time. She normally goes after whoever it is, and Hesita, don't think our previous conversation has escaped me. You need to tell him about it."
"Woah woah woah, why are you asking about the rabbit?" Safe to say, Loki was a little turned around with this.
Dia turned to Loki, "If I tell you this, this does not get repeated, otherwise, Hestia and I will be swarmed by deities who want our children. Some will be as bold as to kill me outright. Am I clear, Loki?" Her vermillion eyes shook as Arcanum's pressure increased. "Am. I. Clear?" A firm head nod. "Both my children possess an undocumented skill called Liaris Freese. It gives unnatural growth as long as their desires remain the same. It makes them immune to charms."
Loki put the pieces together quickly, "The little rabbit has this too? That explains a lot. Do you know why?"
"Because my Bell-"
"Hestia…" Dia cut in.
"Because Bell was saved by Wallenwhatsit and he fell in love with her. His desire to stand next to her as a worthy person is his goal," Hestia corrected and finished.
Loki looked like she wanted to scream, laugh, and tell her off because no one will get her hands on her precious Aizu.
One look at Dia showed that if she did any of the above, the Goddess would be less than pleased. "Okay…this is not what I expected. I understand you not telling him, Hestia, but have you thought of the ramifications if he finds out about this skill?"
"Of course I have. I love Bell but he is terrible at keeping a secret. He's too kind and trusting. They aren't bad traits to have but they can be exploited easily," Hestia said factually.
Dia took over again, "Good." She put two boxes on the desk. "In the event of my departure, I want these given to my children. It matches, mostly, to the one I wear." Dia's hand held that very necklace with a firm grip. "It's a memento to remind them that I will still be there when they need me to be. You may look."
They did so and were astonished at the level of detail.
"The craftsman, Davlin, almost didn't make these, but I begged him to make these with as much care as he could."
They sat in silence for a while, trying to comprehend what they just heard. Once Dia decided that the silence was over, "Now, any other questions?"
The conversation took all day.
Loki dumbed down the details to keep most of the conversation a secret. It was a pretty sensitive discussion.
"Anyway, if they want to join us, I'm all for it. If one decides to join, fine. If they don't, again, that's their call," Loki continued. "They might even go for one each."
"Or none of the above," Sofia cut in.
Riveria got concerned, "What do you mean?"
"Exactly as I said before. I don't plan on staying in a place of pain. Now, they could also come with me and join the Zeus Familia, if they so choose. I do not want them to be influenced by anyone, but they'll have to come to a decision for themselves. That means no asking them, and if any deity chooses to approach, then direct them to me and we'll…talk." Sofia grabbed her staff and casually checked the gems on it, making sure they were all in top condition.
The entire group could only observe, and it wasn't like they had much to say. The ones who spoke were the brave ones.
Seeing a lull in the conversation, Sofia turned her hazel eyes on the other High Elf in the room, "Riveria, how did they react to you being the Godmother?" Riveria's ears twitched. This information was somewhat new to others in the room, but none more so than Alicia and Lefiya. The two elves looked to each other, then to Isaac and Irene. Sofia's facial expression was bordering on teasing and it carried an undertone of seriousness.
Completely ignoring mostly everyone's confusion again, "They took it rather well, they call me Mum now, but-"
"They can get away with that?!" Tiona and Tione shouted. "Every time we do, you-"
They were cut off as Sofia continued the conversation rather than talk to them. "Then I truly had nothing to worry about coming from you. It was the hardships. If it was up to me, I'd slaughter every member of Freya's familia…"
"That would not be a good idea, Madame Mage," Gareth said, stroking his bread. The dwarf executive didn't seem opposed to the idea, however. He knew what it would cause if she did.
"Not like any of you could stop me, I could level Orario within a minute," Sofia said casually, confident in her ability to do so. Not to be confused with arrogance. There have been some reports of large craters being found in faraway lands. Certainly not a natural disaster.
"So, why have you come back now, of all times?" Riveria got to the point quickly.
Sofia stood and gently stoked Isaac and Irene's heads, "Would you believe me if I said I wanted to see how far they've grown without me?" The twins stirred slightly, almost unconsciously leaning into the touch of a maternal figure.
""Nope,"" Hestia and Loki said. They caught her in a lie.
Unperturbed, "Figures, but I did come for them and I wanted to repay Dia for all she's done for me. The next time I'll even see her is when I'm dead."
Meanwhile, Ais felt a little jealousy at the caring, motherly nature that Sofia gave off. Like a natural instinct, Sofia stood and moved, "Come here little one." Soon, Ais felt herself being hugged gently and her hair being stroked. In a low whisper, "Little spirit child, do not be sad. She still lives as her wind still blows. Be strong, Ais Wallen-Waldstein." It was a whisper that only she heard.
"How do you-"
The hug continued, "I will tell you one day. For now…let it out." Sofia had raised her own child with so much love and care that she could have passed off as a housewife and not an adventurer. A few more minutes passed, most everyone was sitting in silence, letting them have the moment. Only then did she notice Hestia and Loki approaching with a box in hand. "Oh, she really did know it was coming…"
The responses died as they heard a groan, a masculine groan. Sofia froze, not expecting him to be lucid. He has Quinn's toughness. That man was strong for someone who didn't have a falna.
"Everyone out," Sofia ordered. "I need time alone with my family. Leave the boxes."
Everyone did so without complaint. Bell and Mikoto were the last ones out, hesitantly so. Ais had stood closer to them, waiting. Riveria is just beyond her. Amid nodded, being the first to leave.
"Soundproof the room. No one gets in," was Riveria's advice. It was a low voice to where Sofia could pick it up. She readied her staff and said only a few words before all sound could not be picked up from outside the room. There would be no eavesdroppers.
That was when Isaac opened his eyes.
...
(12/1/2021 or 1/21/2021, dependent on where you live.) Here are their updated statuses according to this chapter. When I return from my break, I will direct everyone returning here just to make sure that nothing is confusing. I should have done this earlier.
Isaac Vlahos
Level 4 → 4/5 → 5
Power = H150 → S999 → D500
Endurance = H150 → S999 → D500
Dexterity = H150 → S999 → D500
Agility = H150 → S999 → D500
Magic = H150 → S999 → D500
Hunter = F
Immunity = E
Fire Resistance = G
Weapons Expert = I
{Magic}
Futago's Maindosukēpu: This allows the user to speak with their twin, an exceptionally rare spell, only works on blood-related twins. Fraternal or Identical, there is no difference. Uses very little Mind, and can be used for long-distance. No chant required; like flexing a muscle, the user thinks, and it activates, helpful in stressful situations.
Bronze Key: Gifted by the keyholder, for being close to them. Bronze Key allows the user access to all Swift Strike Spells and various lower to mid-tier spells. Can be upgraded by [redacted].
Meteor Fissure: Swift Strike Magic. Forms sharp earth rocks based on the user's power. Near-instant travel time, unaffected by other elements. Chant: Fissure!
{Skills}
Liaris Freese: Fast growth as long as feelings last. The strength of the effects corresponds with the level of the user's feelings. As a side effect, it makes the user immune to charms.
Heat Barrage: Increases all of the user's basic abilities. Dependent on the user's level.
Last Rites: When user is critically injured—physically, emotionally, or mentally—Status is effectively copied and doubled for a short time. Any bonuses and effects applied to user are affected as well.
Tsuinzubatorukurai (Twin's Battlecry): When a user is fighting a battle with a blood-related twin, The basic stats are temporarily increased by two ranks for a short time.
…
Irene Vlahos
Level 4 → 4/5 → 5
Power = H150 → S999 → D500
Endurance = H150 → S999 → D500
Dexterity = H150 → S999 → D500
Agility = H150 → S999 → D500
Magic = H150 → S999 → D500
Mage = C
Immunity = G
Spirit Healing = E
Magic Resistance = I
{Magic}
Futago's Maindosukēpu: This allows the user to speak with their twin, an exceptionally rare spell, only works on blood-related twins. Fraternal or Identical, there is no difference. Uses very little Mind, and can be used for long-distance. No chant required; like flexing a muscle, the user thinks, and it activates, helpful in stressful situations.
Orb of Divine Healing: Replenishes Mind and heals injuries, while also giving the affected target a small boost to their status. Cannot cast on one's self. However, the user can only cast it once safely without the risk of Mind Down, twice if their magic skill is above Rank E. Chant- Oh humble Goddess, I beseech you. Bless thy vessel with the strength to carry on. Allow this extension of your will to be thrusted into a new age. Heal, I beseech you. Through the stars and sky, I wish the light of day be graced upon those worthy. Heal. Even if I fall, let those who receive live to fight. I beseech you, oh humble Goddess, Heal!
Keys to the Kingdom: This allows the user access to any spell, no matter what the effects of it are. If the User becomes acquainted with a spell, it is added to their magic list.
Blazing Meteor: Summons a flaming rock to be launched at an opponent. Tracking spell, considered to be the weakest. Can be repeated multiple times, with no limit. Chant- By the wishes of the Gods, grant me the power to test my enemies in the fires of purity!
Smokescreen: Swift Strike Magic. Creates a smoke that blinds those not allied to the caster. Great for stealth or sneaking around/between enemies. Chant - Smokescreen!
Shockwave: Swift Strike Magic. Air element. This creates a wind blade, visible when cast, that slices enemies. Empowered if user has Mage development ability. Chant - Shockwave!
Shadow Concealment: This spell allows the shadows to reflect light around the user and their allies rendering them invisible to most. They do not have to be of the same Falna for this to work. This duration is affected by the user's level, Power, and Magic stats. If the user has the development ability Mage, the duration is doubled. Chant- The monsters of the night, heed my call. I request passing to the Great Beyond. Let my enemies know true fear. Phobos, I call upon thee, cast us into the shadows!
{Skills}
Liaris Freese: Fast growth as long as feelings last. The strength of the effects corresponds with the level of the user's feelings. As a side effect, it makes the user immune to charms.
Fairy Serenade: Increases the effects of Magic Effect rises at night.
Tsuinzubatorukurai (Twin's Battlecry): When a user is fighting a battle with a blood-related twin, The basic stats are temporarily increased by two ranks for a short time.
Serenity: Dia's description is as follows. I judge that it has to do with healing magic, but there is nothing on it. I can only assume that its meaning has something to do with peace. Research to follow.
...
I apologize if it feels like I repeated myself. I may have, and I was not going to delay this. This was part of that future document and I added on as I wrote this. This was actually written last weekend on my trip to visit my brother. Nine hours in a car was productive, I swear.
Next chapter...waking up, and some chores that need to be done.
My plan is to have the trial and the decision on Chapter 38. If I can. No promises. I hope you enjoyed the three chapters I had posted over this past week. I have punishments for Freya. I am basically constructing an argument from both sides, knowing everything and having to make it flow. A good challenge, if I do say so myself.
Chapter word count: 9279
Current plans: Finish Chapters 37 and (make) 38.
Shrouds of White Chapter 4 in progress
Make a new Tales of Royalty Chapter.
Uploads on this will slow down considerably.