Honey sighed as her husband ran his finger through her hair, the room enveloped in a tranquil silence on that lazy Sunday afternoon. "I haven't seen you this sad since universe 13-18 was erased," the grand priest remarked, his voice filled with concern. Honey whimpered, seeking solace as she nestled deeper into her husband's lap.

"What do you have to do now?" he gently inquired, his eyes reflecting genuine care.

"Get them out of the water," she weakly replied, her voice barely audible.

"May I ask you something?" he asked, his tone filled with tenderness.

"What is it?" she mumbled, her voice barely a whisper.

"What caused you such distress?" he inquired softly, his eyes searching for the source of her pain.

Honey opened her mouth to speak, but no words emerged. She felt an overwhelming sense of horror and disgust. Was this how the High Mother had felt when faced with similar circumstances? Uncontrollable tears streamed down her face once more. Gradually, she sensed herself being lifted and gently placed onto the bed she shared with her husband.

He tenderly tucked her in and wrapped his arms around her from behind. "I'm sorry, my love. I had no idea the weight of this burden was so heavy on your heart."


the grand priestess stood in their bedroom, engaged in conversation with the radiant figure known as the high mother. Sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm glow upon the room. It was a peaceful Saturday morning, and her husband had ventured out to attend to the early needs of Lord Zeno, whose early rise remained a mystery.

"This is it," announced the high mother, her brilliance intensifying as she conjured a glowing vial into her hand. "Drop this into the water and wait an hour before bringing them down."

Hesitation flickered across the features of the short priestess as she accepted the vial. Surprisingly heavy for its mere five milliliters, it seemed to bear the weight of the world.

"Oh, my precious honey bee, fear not. They are in safe hands with me," assured the high mother with tender affection.

"It's not about that," Honey replied, her voice tinged with concern.

"Then what troubles you, dear one?" inquired the compassionate Goddess.

"Is there no alternative? Perhaps a gentler approach?" Honey questioned, her eyes searching.

"Honey bee, you know the answer to that. This is the safest and swiftest path. Opting for a peaceful approach could risk the loss of their souls due to the prolonged waiting period," explained the high mother with a touch of sorrow.

A sigh escaped Honey's lips, conveying her inner turmoil.

"The fluid within that vial bears a protective spell and carries the aura of the higher heavens. The regular gatekeepers of heaven dare not touch it, but instead send the souls directly to me," the high mother elucidated.

"Alright, I'll do it," Honey relented, her reluctance palpable.

"You have done a remarkable job, Honey. You even acquainted Coco with her parasol. Allow me to conclude their training and transform them into immortals worthy of the title 'Faithful'," the high mother giggled playfully. "I've heard it's an exclusive club, with only one member as of now."

Honey attempted to stifle a smile, but it proved impossible. "Yes, it's a rather solitary club."

"Good tidings! Someone has discovered twelve potential members," the Goddess revealed, a twinkle in her radiant eyes.


Sunday came too quickly, and Honey groaned as she buried herself deeper in bed, determined to keep the covers over her head. "Honey, wake up," the grand priest called out, urging her to get out of bed. Reluctantly, she surrendered and slowly rose, preparing herself for the day ahead.

"You know you're going to give them a clue if you keep acting like this," her husband warned, perched on the edge of the tub. Honey sighed, conflicted. "I know, but I feel like I'm betraying their trust, and I have no idea how they'll react when they see me again."

"Everything will be fine. I'm here to support you," he reassured her. She mustered a faint smile. "I appreciate that, but I'll handle it on my own. Besides, aren't you overseeing Lord Zeno today? Isn't there an important meeting happening?"

"Yes, the Elder Kai has gone missing in Universe 7, and I need to rectify the situation and ensure the stability of the universe," he explained. Honey raised an eyebrow. "But isn't there a young Kai already assigned to the planet?"

"Yes, there is, but you know how some of the older Kais believe they can do a better job," he replied. Honey chuckled, understanding the dynamics. "So basically, it's a meeting where they all try to impress you for a promotion," she stated bluntly, finding humor in the situation.

"If you were there, they would be doing the same to you," he said, planting a gentle kiss on her forehead before rising to his feet. "I hate leaving you like this, but duty calls."

Honey nodded, grateful for her husband's understanding. "I'll be fine. Just make sure to keep the universe intact," she teased, trying to lighten the mood. He grinned, a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "That's my job, after all. I'll see you later."

With that, he left, leaving Honey alone with her thoughts and the day ahead, ready to face the challenges that awaited her.


Coco pov

Today feels strange. I find myself sitting on the side of my bed, motionless, fixated on the sand clock as it steadily drains away. A sense of unease courses through my body, and the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. Last night's dream still lingers in my mind—I recall being confined within a glass box, adorned with delicate silk bedding and surrounded by a breathtaking array of flowers. A perfect bow adorned one corner of the box.

Within the dream, that charming individual and the grand priestess were present, engaged in a conversation that eluded my ears. Dreams of my partner have become a familiar occurrence, so this aspect doesn't unsettle me. However, the peculiar part was my own inaction; typically, I'm actively engaged in my dreamscapes.

Knock. Knock.

The sound of Clover's knocking breaks through my thoughts, and I realize that, for once, she's seeking permission to enter. "Coco, are you alright?" Her voice carries concern.

"Yes, I'm coming!" I respond, hopeful that she can hear me through the door. Shaking off the strangeness, I rise from my position and attend to my immediate needs before making my way to the dining hall.

Today is Sunday—a day designated for purging impurities.


Grand priestess pov

"Ah, here she is, the last one to join us for breakfast. Good morning, Coco," I said, observing Coco flinch as she entered the room. It was evident that she was startled. Coco replied softly, "Good morning. Sorry, I'm late." As she apologized, she took her seat next to Clover.

"I know you're all wondering why I'm here before you eat. I have an announcement. I have nothing else to teach. Your training with me is complete." I anticipated that this statement would cause a buzz, as everyone started talking to each other. Just like my kids, I thought to myself.

Clearing my throat, I silenced their chatter. "We will discuss what comes next after the cleansing session. Oh, remember when I told you not to consume the water? You are all strong enough to consume it now, so after you pray... consume. Cup the water into your hands and drink until everything is gone. I will see you all in an hour."

I wasn't even out of the dining hall when their chatter resumed.


No pov

"I'm so excited. I might take three handfuls of that funky water," Clover exclaimed, her anticipation causing her to bounce in her seat.

Coco couldn't help but chuckle as she looked at Clover. The excitement in her eyes reminded Coco of Lord Zeno, whom they hadn't seen in a long time.

Lime patted Clover's back, joining in the laughter. "Whoa, slow down there. She only said one handful," Lime said, trying to temper Clover's enthusiasm.

Mochi nodded in agreement. "Oh, come on, guys. You act like I'm going to choke or something," Clover pouted.

"Knowing you, Clover, you might get so caught up that you forget about your partner halfway and end up choking anyway," Coco teased, letting out a playful giggle.


Coco pov

Here we are, once again descending these frigid stone steps. I've traversed this path countless times, to the point where I could likely navigate it blindfolded. The Grand Priestess hurriedly guided us into a chamber adorned with warmth and brimming with pure water. Yet, an unsettling unease lingered in the air. I watched as everyone entered the water and commenced their prayers. I remained oblivious to my own frozen state until the Priestess's touch jolted me back to reality.

"Get into the water, Coco," she uttered icily.

Reluctantly, I complied, locking eyes with Clover, who wore a worried expression. I mustered a reassuring smile in her direction before sinking to my knees and bowing my head in prayer. Suddenly, a sound caught my attention—a choking noise, perhaps Clover drinking too hastily. Dismissing the thought, I continued to pray.

Upon concluding my prayers, I slowly cupped a handful of water, intending to partake, when the unmistakable sound of splashing reached my ears. I turned my gaze towards the commotion, only to be seized by a piercing scream. My friends lay submerged in the water, their lifeless bodies floating eerily—some facedown, others facing the ceiling. It was a horrifying sight. Lime's once-ivory skin now revealed veins coursing beneath, while his sunken eyes reflected sheer torment. Poor Mochi appeared as if he had fought desperately for survival, evidenced by his self-inflicted throat wound.

Overwhelmed with sickness and a visceral urge to retch, tears streamed down my face. Then, I felt a bump against my leg. Trembling, I glanced downward, only to release another piercing scream. It was my best friend, her eyes wide open, blood-stained tears streaming down her face. I prepared to cradle Clover in my arms, but a powerful grip restrained me.

"Drink the water, Coco," came the demanding voice.

"Drink the water, Coco," the grand priestess commanded in a final tone. I jerked out of her hold and turned to glare at her, my trust shattered. "I thought I could trust you," I managed to say, but my anger was tinged with tearful weakness. "Please drink, or I'll have to get rid of you," she whimpered, her cold facade crumbling away.

Fear consumed me as I realized the gravity of the situation. "I don't want to die," I pleaded, my voice trembling. The quiet waters stirred, mirroring the turmoil within me.

"Hush, I understand how terrifying it is. I had to face it too. Drinking this will make you stronger, Coco. You need to find strength within yourself. Everything will be alright in the end," she cooed, holding my head against her chest. "Do you want to try it on your own, or would you like me to assist you?"

My entire body shook with fear. "I can't do it."

"You have to. The longer you wait here, the people you call friends will be lost, Coco," the Grand Priestess pleaded with desperation in her voice.

"I... I can't do it," I whimpered, my voice filled with fear and uncertainty.

The Grand Priestess paused for a moment, her gaze filled with both understanding and determination. With a solemn expression, she declared,

"Then I will help you."


Priestess pov

before she could ask me anything, I swiftly pulled her underwater, one hand securing her throat and the other holding her forehead to keep her submerged. In my mind, I knew that what I was doing would ultimately help her, even though it meant she would ingest the water.

Desperately, she thrashed and clawed at anything within reach, fighting for her life. Her once beautiful gold eyes now wide open with fear, pleaded for assistance.

Gradually, her body went limp, but I was no fool. The sight of blood tainted the previously pure water escaping from her mouth, signaling that she was truly gone.

Releasing my grip, I ensured her face resurfaced above the water. With a heavy heart, I moved on to the others, repeating the process and tending to any wounds they had inflicted upon themselves.

Their tongues were partially torn and their throats partially shredded, as they fought desperately to survive. After I finished healing them, I carefully emerged from the pool and sank down onto the ground.

An anguished sob escaped my lips, filled with distress, knowing that my partner would sense my pain and arrive soon. I could only weep while gazing at the lifeless bodies floating in the water. Scooting myself backward, I sought solace against the comforting touch of the stone wall.


No pov

"I can see why you're distressed," Honey's husband said, his voice filled with concern. Honey let out a heavy sigh, her gaze fixed on the ground.

"Come on, let's go home," he suggested gently, reaching out a comforting hand. "You can tell me everything."

However, Honey remained motionless, lost in her thoughts. Her husband's love and care for her overwhelmed her, and she felt her emotions welling up inside. Sensing her vulnerability, he made a heartfelt decision.

Without saying a word, he scooped her up in his arms, cradling her like a delicate flower. Honey's weight rested against his chest, finding solace in the safety of his embrace. Carrying her with tenderness, he began their journey back home.

In this quiet and intimate moment, they shared unspoken words, a silent understanding passing between them.


Coco pov

God damn it, where am I now? My mind felt foggy, and each breath came in shallow gasps.

Slowly, my eyes fluttered open, only to be met with a disorienting sight—I was submerged underwater! Panic surged through my veins. Was I still being drowned? My heart raced as I jerked upright, my body trembling.

My friends surrounded me, their faces etched with concern. Even Sweet, usually stoic, wore an expression of worry. They huddled together, their tension palpable in the air.

Before I could gather my bearings, someone collided with me, nearly pushing me back into the glowing depths of the water.

"We were so worried. We didn't think you would make it," Clover exclaimed, her voice filled with relief, as she held me tightly.

Confusion seeped into my weakened voice as I asked, "Where are we?"

A melodic voice cut through the room, piercing the uncertainty. "You are in a realm beyond mortal existence, a place some call heaven," she said, her words filled with a sense of otherworldly coldness.

Clover helped me out of the water, and the radiant woman extended her hand, healing me with a gentle wave.

"Now, come with me. I will show you to your temporary dwelling," she said, her movements so graceful that it seemed she glided rather than walked.

"Lady, who are you?" Sweet's voice quivered with tension, mirroring the unspoken question that hung in the air.

The woman paused, her gaze meeting ours, and with a serene smile, she explained,

"I am the deity you have devoted your prayers to."