In the snowy land of Asgard, Ophiuchus Karaat, one of the legendary Gold Saints from Athena's ranks, finds himself revived on a mountainside. Confused but filled with determination, he senses a new purpose within himself. With the destruction of the Wailing Wall to help to defeat Hades, he feels a calling to use his skills to help others.
As Ophiuchus Karaat walked through the snowy expanse of Asgard, his mind buzzed with a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The recent turn of events had left him perplexed, yet undeniably intrigued. How was it possible that he, who had given his life in the battle against Hades, found himself brought back to life?
As Ophiuchus Karaat makes his way toward the city, his senses suddenly heightened, alerting him to a sense of danger nearby. He heard the desperate cries of a child and the menacing growls of a wolf. Without hesitation, he quickened his pace, his footsteps crunching against the frozen ground.
As he approached the source of the commotion, Ophiuchus Karaat could barely make out the figure of a young girl, her small form being fiercely attacked by a large, ferocious wolf. The girl's frail frame was barely visible amidst the flurry of snow, her black hair standing out in stark contrast against the wintry landscape.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Ophiuchus Karaat surged forward, propelled by an unyielding determination to protect the innocent. With each stride, his golden armor glistened under the pale sunlight, emanating an aura of power and resilience.
Drawing closer, Ophiuchus Karaat's eyes locked onto the wolf, its fangs bared and its eyes filled with primal aggression. Without hesitation, he summoned the power of his Ophiuchus Gold Cloth, his body enveloped in a radiant blue flame that burned with celestial energy.
In a display of incredible speed and strength, Ophiuchus Karaat lunged at the wolf, his fist wreathed in the blazing blue flames. With a single punch, he struck the wolf with a force that sent it sprawling backward, yelping in pain. The ferocious beast, momentarily stunned by the unexpected assault, retreated into the snowy wilderness, defeated.
As the danger subsided, Ophiuchus Karaat turned his attention to the young girl, now safe from harm. He knelt beside her, his breath forming misty clouds in the frigid air. His gaze softened as he examined her delicate features and noticed her unusual white hair, a sign of her distinctiveness.
Filled with a mix of curiosity and concern, Ophiuchus Karaat extended a gloved hand towards the girl, offering her assistance. His voice carried a warmth and reassurance as he spoke, "Fear not, young one. You are safe now."
Despite her shivering form and the evident distress in her voice, Shem-Ha Mephorash, the young girl Ophiuchus Karaat had just rescued, mustered a hint of pride in her response. Her words, tinged with defiance, cut through the icy air.
"I didn't need your help! I can handle myself," Shem-Ha muttered, her voice quivering slightly as she tried to maintain an air of independence. Her small frame trembled, betraying the chill that had settled deep within her bones.
Ophiuchus Karaat regarded her with a mixture of empathy and understanding. He knew that the cold weather had taken its toll on the child, and her attempts to mask her vulnerability were merely a façade.
"Can you tell me your name?" asked Karaat.
The girl, still trembling from the ordeal, looked up at Ophiuchus Karaat with wide, frightened eyes. After a moment of hesitation, she whispered, "Shem-Ha... Shem-Ha Mephorash."
Ophiuchus Karaat listened attentively as Shem-Ha Mephorash revealed her name, her voice barely above a whisper. He couldn't help but be intrigued by her self-proclaimed title of an Earth Goddess. It resonated with a familiar sense of mysticism that he had encountered in his past battles.
"I don't doubt your claim, Shem-Ha Mephorash," Karaat responded, his voice carrying a tone of quiet certainty. "In the holy war against Hades, I fought alongside Athena's brave warriors. I, too, should have perished, yet here I stand before you, alive once more."
He paused for a moment, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon. Memories of the fierce battles and the sacrifices made in the name of justice flooded his mind. The weight of his own resurrection held a significance that was not lost on him.
"Shem-Ha Mephorash, an Earth Goddess," he repeated softly, his voice filled with a mix of awe and curiosity. "An esteemed title, indeed. It is an honor to meet you, Shem-Ha."
Shem-Ha's trembling began to subside as she took a moment to absorb the recognition in Karaat's words. She looked at him intently, her fear momentarily replaced with a glimmer of curiosity.
"You're not like the others," said Shem-Ha
"I should be dead," Karaat continued, his voice tinged with a hint of melancholy. "But here I am, revived on this snowy mountainside. I guess Hades couldn't get rid of me after all."
Shem-Ha's eyes widened in astonishment, her fear now replaced by fascination. "So, you've faced Hades himself... What was it like? Tell me everything!"
Karaat gazed into the distance, his thoughts drifting back to the tumultuous battles fought against the Lord of the Underworld. He spoke with a mix of reverence and determination.
"The battle against Hades was a grueling one, Shem-Ha. The forces of evil were formidable, and their desire to plunge the world into darkness seemed insurmountable. But we, the Gold Saints, fought with unwavering resolve. We channeled the power of our Cosmo, our inner strength, to protect Athena and safeguard humanity."
He paused, a flicker of sadness crossing his features as he remembered the fallen comrades who had fought beside him.
"Ophiuchus Karaat," she began, her voice filled with a newfound determination, "would you be my caretaker? With your experience and strength, I believe you can guide me and help me understand the world outside of Asgard."
Karaat's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected request. He studied Shem-Ha, her black hair contrasting against the snowy landscape, and sensed a profound loneliness within her. He could not ignore the sincerity in her eyes, and a sense of responsibility welled up inside him.
"Shem-Ha, as an Earth Goddess, you possess a power and purpose that goes beyond what I can comprehend," Karaat replied, his voice gentle yet resolute. "However, I cannot turn a blind eye to your plea. If you seek my guidance and protection, I shall do my utmost to assist you on your journey."
Shem-Ha's eyes shimmered with gratitude as a small smile graced her face. She had found a companion, someone who understood the weight of battles fought and the desire to protect others.
In the heart of Asgard's bustling city, Ophiuchus Karaat had established a makeshift clinic, a haven for those in need of medical attention. Though he lacked the official credentials of a licensed medic, his knowledge and experience as a Gold Saint proved invaluable in treating various ailments and injuries.
Word of Karaat's clinic quickly spread throughout the city, and people from all walks of life flocked to him seeking solace and healing. Whether they were injured warriors, weary travelers, or residents in need of medical aid, Karaat welcomed them all with compassion and a determination to alleviate their suffering.
Inside the clinic, the atmosphere buzzed with activity. Karaat moved with purpose, tending to patients with a steady hand and a gentle demeanor. His understanding of the human body and his proficiency in healing techniques allowed him to diagnose ailments accurately and provide effective treatment.
Despite the challenges of working without official recognition, Karaat's reputation as a skilled healer grew rapidly. People began referring to him as "The Unlicensed Medic," a testament to his dedication and the trust he had earned within the community.
Karaat's interactions with patients went beyond the physical aspect of healing. He listened attentively to their stories, offering words of comfort and support. Through his empathy and genuine care, he provided solace to those burdened by emotional pain and uncertainty.
Shem-Ha, his ever-loyal companion, stood by his side, observing and assisting where she could.
In the bustling clinic of Ophiuchus Karaat, a sanctuary of healing nestled amidst the chaos of the city, the gold saint diligently attended to the needs of his patients. His skilled hands moved with precision, mending wounds and restoring hope to those who sought his aid.
As he worked, his keen senses picked up on a shift in the atmosphere. He glanced up, his gaze falling upon the figure of a young woman standing hesitantly at the entrance of his clinic. Her eyes darted around the room, searching for someone or something. Intrigued, Karaat set aside his instruments and approached her with a gentle smile.
In that moment, a myriad of thoughts swirled in Karaat's mind. Who was this woman? What had brought her here? Was she seeking medical assistance or something else entirely? The circumstances of the world often dictated the reasons people sought out the assistance of a gold saint, and Karaat couldn't help but wonder if she was a prostitute or in need of an abortion.
"Greetings, young traveler," Karaat says warmly, "Are you in need of medical assistance? I am a skilled medic, and I offer my services to those in need."
Starlit, surprised by his offer of help, looks up at the compassionate figure standing before her. She had been wandering, carrying the weight of her battles against extraterrestrial threats, and the toll had taken its toll on her body and spirit.
"I am not accustomed to receiving such kindness," Starlit replies, her voice laced with gratitude.
"What ails you? How may I be of assistance? I am a skilled medic, and I offer my services to those in need. I can be discrete as well."
Starlit, taken aback by his genuine concern, hesitates for a moment.
"I... Discrete? How do you mean?," Starlit replies softly.
Karaat pauses, his eyes filled with understanding. "Ah, my apologies for assuming. Please forgive me."
Starlit smiles appreciatively, sensing Karaat's sincerity. "No need to apologize. We have faced our own share of challenges. But may I ask, what did you assume I needed assistance with?"
Karaat sighs, a tinge of sadness in his voice. "Recently, there have been many women in need of an abortion and I thought you might be in need of medical care for such an affliction. I'm relieved to hear that you are not afflicted by it."
Starlit's expression turns somber. "I'm sorry to hear that. It must be a difficult time for the people here."
Karaat nods. "Indeed, it is. The past few days alone, I have attended to three individuals looking for the procedure. It has been a trying time, but I am committed to doing what I can to help."
Moved by Karaat's dedication, Starlit's eyes fill with admiration. "Your commitment is truly commendable." She sits down and sighs, "My name is Starlit."
"Karaat."
"Karaat, I have come here to see you. I have heard about what you can do. A miracle man moves into the city? I want to meet him," she says inquisitively.
Karaat's gaze softened as he gestured for her to come closer, his voice matching the subdued tone. "Welcome, Starlit. I'm honored by your trust. Please, have a seat. But before we begin, let's keep our voices low. My roommate, Shem-Ha, is resting in the other room."
Starlit nodded understandingly, her curiosity piqued by the mention of Karaat's mysterious roommate.
"Do you believe that people can change, Karaat? I mean, deep down, can they truly become better versions of themselves?"
Karaat pauses for a moment, contemplating her question. "I do believe that people have the capacity to change," he replies, his voice filled with conviction. "But change is not always easy. It requires introspection, a willingness to confront one's flaws and shortcomings, and the determination to grow beyond them."
Starlit nods, absorbing his words. "I understand. Change is a personal journey, and not everyone may embark upon it willingly. Some people can be really stubborn, holding onto their beliefs and behaviors despite the evidence pointing otherwise."
Karaat smiles warmly at her understanding. "Indeed, that is true. But even in the face of stubbornness, we can plant seeds of change. It may take time, patience, and a gentle touch to nurture those seeds, but with enough care, they can blossom into something beautiful."
Starlit's eyes shimmer with admiration for Karaat's wisdom. "You have such a compassionate heart, Karaat. I believe that together, we can inspire change and help others realize their potential."
Just as their conversation comes to a close, a distressed villager approaches them, his voice filled with urgency. "Please, we need your help! A horse cart carrying vital supplies for our village has been trapped in a cave due to a landslide. The people are running out of food and medicine."
As Karaat and Starlit arrive at the cave entrance, they are met with the sight of a massive boulder blocking the way. Starlit prepares herself to use her Elekleid, tapping into her symphonic power, ready to resonate with the earth and dislodge the obstacle.
However, before Starlit can begin, Karaat steps forward with a resolute expression on his face. He takes a deep breath, centering himself, and channels his cosmos energy into his fist. With a swift and powerful motion, he throws a punch towards the boulder, unleashing a tremendous force upon impact.
To Starlit's astonishment, the boulder shatters into countless pieces, reduced to mere rubble. Her eyes widen in disbelief as she witnesses the sheer strength displayed by the medic.
"How... How did you do that?" Starlit asks, her voice tinged with awe and curiosity.
Karaat, his gaze filled with determination, meets her eyes. "I am a believer of goddess Athena, Starlit," he replies, a serene confidence emanating from him. "Her divine influence flows through me, granting me strength beyond my own limits."
As Karaat and Starlit find themselves back in Karaat's consulting room, they engage in a friendly, yet spirited, discussion about the astonishing feat they had just witnessed. Starlit, still in awe, can't help but prod Karaat for more details.
"But Karaat," she begins, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "that punch of yours was incredible! Are you sure it was just your faith in our goddess that gave you that immense strength?"
Karaat chuckles, a playful spark in his own eyes. "Well, Starlit, it's true that my faith plays a significant role, but I can't discount the countless hours of training and physical conditioning I've undergone over the years. It's a combination of both body and spirit."
Starlit raises an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "So, you're telling me that you've trained your body to such an extent that you can pulverize boulders with a single punch?"
Karaat nods, a hint of pride in his voice. "Indeed, training and honing one's physical abilities is crucial. It allows me to channel the energy within me and push beyond the limits of ordinary strength. Faith amplifies that power, giving it an ethereal quality."
Starlit crosses her arms, a playful challenge in her expression. "Well then, Karaat, if you're so confident in your training, care to have a little friendly competition?"
Karaat's eyes light up with excitement, always eager to put his skills to the test. "I never back down from a challenge, Starlit. What do you have in mind?"
Starlit grins mischievously. "Let's see if you can break this small rock here, just like you did with the boulder. If you can, I'll admit that your training played a significant part."
Karaat accepts the challenge with a nod and steps forward. He focuses his energy, feeling the connection to his goddess growing stronger within him. With a swift yet controlled strike, he delivers a powerful blow to the rock, causing it to shatter into pieces.
Starlit's eyes widen, a mix of astonishment and admiration on her face. "You... you really did it again! Karaat, your training and faith truly make you a force to be reckoned with."
Karaat chuckles, enjoying their playful banter. "You see, Starlit, it's the convergence of physical prowess and spiritual connection that allows me to achieve such feats. It's a testament to the potential we all hold within ourselves."
Starlit nods, her respect for Karaat deepening even further. "I understand you're a powerful being, but how? It's just remarkable."
As Starlit and Karaat playfully debate the strength of their respective beliefs and abilities, Starlit's curiosity piques. She decides to reveal her Elekleid combat suit to Karaat, eager to share her own source of power.
With a confident smile, Starlit raises her arm, revealing a sleek and futuristic bracelet known as the Transformer Coil. She chants the command, "Elekleid! Switch On!" and in an instant, the air crackles with electricity. Light, heat, and vibrations converge into her bracelet, transforming it into a dazzling suit of armor that covers her body.
Karaat's eyes widen in awe as he witnesses the Elekleid armor's transformation. The suit radiates power and technological marvel. He is captivated by its capabilities and the elegance of its design.
Impressed, Karaat realizes it's time for him to reveal his own source of strength. He makes appear, an big ornate box with intricate patterns adorning its surface. It is his Pandora box, containing the legendary Ophiuchus Gold Cloth. "Starlit, this is the key to my power," he explains, his voice filled with reverence.
"Wow," she says.
"Starlit," Karaat begins, his voice filled with conviction, "the existence of gods is a truth I hold dear. In Asgard, we believe in the divine presence of Odin, the Allfather, and the gods who govern the realms. Their influence is felt throughout this land."
Starlit listens intently, her eyes scanning the surroundings. In the distance, she notices a majestic tree, its colossal branches reaching towards the sky. It stands as a symbol of the divine, a testament to the belief in higher powers.
"I understand," Starlit responds, a newfound understanding dawning upon her. "In my world, the presence of gods may not be as tangible, but I can sense the power of faith and belief in the unknown. It's a connection that transcends the boundaries of our realities."
Karaat nods, a knowing smile on his face. "Indeed, Starlit. The power of belief can shape our lives and grant us strength beyond measure. It is through faith that we find guidance and purpose, drawing upon the divine forces that shape our existence."
In the distance, Starlit notices a towering tree, its branches stretching toward the presence reinforces the reality of the divine realm they find themselves in.
Feeling a sense of urgency, Starlit's heart quickens as she gazes at the anomalous eclipse caused by Hades. The darkened sky serves as a stark reminder of the impending danger lurking in the shadows. She explains to Karaat that she needs to leave before Nikola, her mentor, notices that she has deactivated the tracking system of her Elekleid. She knows that her departure may be sudden, but she promises to cherish the memories and the lessons she has learned during her time with Karaat.
Karaat, understanding the necessity of Starlit's departure, nods with a bittersweet smile. "Though our paths may diverge, Starlit, always remember me. When you gaze at the night sky and see the Ophiuchus constellation, think of me, and know that our paths may cross again in the tapestry of fate."
As Starlit giggles at Karaat's cheesy line, she playfully nudges him, acknowledging the warmth and sincerity behind his words. "I'll be sure to think of you whenever I look up at the stars, Karaat," she says with a smile. "And if I ever need help or find myself in a bind, I won't hesitate to seek your assistance."
With those parting words, Starlit begins her journey back to her own world, leaving Karaat standing beneath the grandeur of Yggdrasil. He watches her disappear into the shimmering portal, grateful for the time they spent together and the connection they formed.
As Starlit stepped through the portal, her curiosity piqued, she couldn't resist the temptation to explore a parallel world that mirrored the one she had just left behind. The allure of witnessing more of the enigmatic saints and gods that inhabited these realms was simply too enticing to ignore. Eager to learn more about the saints, the gods, and the remnants of their struggles, she ventured forth, unaware of the consequences that awaited her.
Regret quickly settled within Starlit as she arrived in this new reality. The rain poured down relentlessly, drenching the desolate landscape. A sense of foreboding washed over her, as if the very atmosphere mourned the loss that had befallen this place. The sight that greeted her was disheartening – the once majestic and vibrant Athena's Sanctuary lay in ruins. Crumbling columns, shattered statues, and overgrown vegetation painted a bleak picture of desolation and decay.
Walking through the remnants of what was once a sacred place, Starlit couldn't help but feel a deep sadness. The absence of life and the lingering aura of despair hung heavy in the air. It was as if the hopes and dreams that once thrived within these walls had been extinguished.
As she explored further, memories of the battles fought by the saints resonated in her mind. She imagined the clashes between powerful warriors, the fierce determination to protect humanity, and the sacrifices made for the greater good. But now, all that remained were echoes of a bygone era.
As Starlit continued her exploration, she noticed two figures standing amidst the ruins. Recognizing them as Aiolos and Shura as Karaat have described them, she approached with caution, her curiosity piqued. Their presence in this desolate place seemed both intriguing and unsettling.
Drawing closer, Starlit could see that both Aiolos and Shura bore expressions heavy with sorrow and resolve.
Their eyes held a depth of pain and weariness that mirrored the state of the ruined sanctuary. Sensing her presence, they turned towards her, their gazes meeting hers.
With a mix of trepidation and empathy, Starlit mustered the courage to speak up. Addressing them directly, she asked, "What happened here? What has befallen Athena's Sanctuary?"
As Starlit approached Aiolos and Shura to inquire about the state of the ruined sanctuary, her eyes fell upon a disturbing sight nearby. A pool of crimson blood stained the ground, its presence unmistakable amidst the desolation. And within that pool lay the shattered remains of another fallen Gold Saint.
A mix of shock and sorrow washed over Starlit as she realized the gravity of the situation. The fallen comrade, once a pillar of strength and valor, now lay lifeless before her. The destruction around them became all the more palpable, for it had claimed not just the sanctuary but also the lives of those who fought to defend it.
Speechless for a moment, Starlit's mind raced with questions. Her endless questions ceased when Shura interrupted her.
Shura's expression remained stoic as he calmly began to explain. "It was only a matter of time before one of the threats from the multiverse discovered this world," he said, his voice carrying a weight of experience. "I have been traveling between worlds and dimensions, following their steps, hunting down and destroying the Levengers as well as the Conductors."
With a surge of urgency, Shura interrupted Aiolos as he lunged towards Starlit. In a swift motion, Shura restrained his fellow Gold Saint, preventing any harm from coming to the young woman.
"But what about her? We can't ignore her presence and the danger she might pose," said Aiolos in anguish.
Shura placed a firm hand on Aiolos' shoulder, urging him to calm himself. "Aiolos, I understand your concerns. However, we must prioritize our actions. We will deal with her when we have dealt with the immediate threat at hand."
Shura, sensing Starlit's determination, decided to share with her a glimpse of the trials they had faced in this world. He spoke with a mix of sadness and resolve, recounting the battles against Zeus that had nearly brought them to their knees.
"In this world," Shura began, his voice tinged with sorrow, "they fought a war against Zeus, a battle that pushed them to their limits. Aiolos, burdened with the weight of destiny, was forced to confront his own brother, who had become possessed by Zeus himself."
Starlit listened intently, her heart heavy with the weight of their struggles. She couldn't fathom the pain Aiolos must have endured, having to face his own flesh and blood in such a harrowing conflict.
"Aiolos," Shura continued, his voice filled with empathy, "had no choice but to take his brother's life, to end the grip of Zeus and prevent further destruction. But now, Aiolos carries the weight of guilt and fears the future he may bring upon us."
Starlit could see the turmoil etched on Aiolos' face, the weight of responsibility pressing down upon him. She understood his desire for a brighter future, a world where peace reigned and smiles were not overshadowed by sorrow.
"I understand," Starlit said softly, her voice filled with compassion. "Aiolos wants to sacrifice himself to prevent any further harm, to create a future where true peace can flourish."
Shura nodded, acknowledging Aiolos' selfless intentions. "He seeks a world where everyone can smile, where the scars of war and turmoil can be healed. It is his fervent wish to protect the 'hero' of tomorrow, ensuring that they can thrive in a better world."
Shura looked deeply into Aiolos' eyes, understanding the weight of his request. Aiolos, burdened by the future he feared he might cause, asked Shura to end his life in that very moment, to prevent any further harm and to protect the hero of tomorrow. Shura's gaze was filled with solemnity as he nodded in acceptance.
"I will grant your wish, Aiolos," Shura replied, his voice heavy with resolve. He moved his arm, ready to fulfill Aiolos' request and sever the ties that bound him to this world. The blade hovered in the air, poised to carry out the final act.
Starlit, frozen in shock and disbelief, watched in horror as Shura prepared to strike down his comrade without a hint of remorse. Her heart pounded in her chest, her mind racing to comprehend the gravity of the situation unfolding before her.
In one swift strike, Aiolos is beheaded. His headless body falls to the ground and begins to bleed profusely.
Starlit stood there, her eyes wide with disbelief and horror. She couldn't comprehend how Shura, a fellow Gold Saint, could so easily carry out Aiolos' request without any trace of remorse. The weight of the moment pressed upon her, leaving her shaken and filled with a mix of emotions.
As her mind struggled to process the situation, Shura's next words reached her ears, pulling her attention back to the present. He extended a fragment of the broken golden wing of the Sagittarius cloth toward her, his voice carrying a sense of urgency and purpose.
"Hold onto this relic fragment," Shura said, his tone serious yet resolute. "It holds power and significance. Use it wisely as a crucial tool in your countermeasure project against Nikola Tesla, the source of these multiverse threats."
Starlit's trembling hand reached out, instinctively accepting the fragment. She felt its weight in her palm, its cold metal against her skin. Though her heart still ached with the shocking events that had transpired, she knew that she had been entrusted with a vital piece of the puzzle.
"Aiolos sought to prevent a future of destruction, where lives would be lost and darkness would prevail," Shura began, his voice carrying the weight of his experience and understanding. "He believed that his sacrifice would pave the way for a brighter tomorrow, where peace and smiles could flourish."
His words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. Shura continued, his voice steady and unwavering.
"While the act itself may appear callous, it was driven by the desire to honor Aiolos' wish and prevent the harm he believed he would cause," Shura explained. "It was not an easy decision, nor one made without reflection. We must now carry the burden of his sacrifice and work towards a future that aligns with his vision."
As Starlit listened, a mix of conflicting emotions swirled within her. She still couldn't fully comprehend Shura's actions, but she recognized the unwavering dedication he held toward their cause. She realized that she needed to find her own resolve, to honor Aiolos' sacrifice in her own way.
"I... I understand," Starlit finally spoke, her voice filled with a newfound determination. "I will carry this relic fragment and use it as a beacon of hope against Nikola Tesla and the threats he poses. I will strive to build a future where Aiolos' sacrifice is not in vain and where true peace can prevail."
Before Starlit could embark on her journey, Shura's voice turned stern, and a warning filled the air. His eyes bore into hers with a piercing intensity, leaving no room for doubt.
"Remember this well," Shura declared, his tone laced with both caution and conviction. "If I ever find you or anyone from your group standing in the way of our mission, know that my holy sword will not hesitate to strike you down."
Starlit shuddered at the weight of his words. She understood that their paths might cross again, and that any misalignment with their shared purpose could lead to dire consequences. Shura's resolve was unwavering, his dedication to their cause unyielding.
With a deep breath, Starlit held the fragment tightly in her grasp. It served as a reminder of the task before her and the trust that had been placed upon her shoulders. She nodded, silently acknowledging Shura's warning and the gravity of their mission.
Without wasting another moment, Starlit turned and swiftly departed from the desolate remnants of the ruined sanctuary. The rain continued to fall, mirroring the heaviness in her heart. As she ventured into the unknown, her mind was filled with determination and questions that would shape her path forward.
She knew that her encounters with other saints, gods, and the enigmatic threat of Nikola Tesla would test her strength, resilience, and beliefs. But she was ready to face the challenges head-on, armed with the relic fragment and the memory of Aiolos' sacrifice.
Meanwhile, in a devastated state, Hibiki finds herself in Asgard, a place she never expected to be. Determined to confront the people responsible for ruining her life and taking away her sunshine, she has been tirelessly helping the locals, contemplating the idea of stopping them on her own.
It is during this turbulent moment that she is approached by Saga, one of the powerful Gold Saints. Observing Hibiki emerging from a portal, Saga's expression is a mix of curiosity and caution. He seeks to understand her origins and her intentions in this sacred realm.
"Excuse me," Saga begins, his voice steady and measured. "I couldn't help but notice your arrival through that portal. May I ask where you came from, and what brings you to Asgard?"
Hibiki's gaze narrows as Saga continues to question her, failing to grasp the pain and determination burning within her. Frustration begins to build, and her patience wears thin.
"Why don't you just leave me alone?" she retorts, her voice tinged with anger. "I don't need your questioning or your interference. I came here to confront those who have caused so much suffering. Now step aside!"
Saga, unfazed by Hibiki's outburst, remains resolute. He understands the intensity of her emotions and the desire for retribution. However, he also recognizes the potential danger she poses to herself and others.
"I cannot let you recklessly venture forth, endangering yourself and the delicate balance of Asgard," Saga responds firmly, his voice echoing with authority. "There is more at stake here than you realize."
Hibiki's anger intensifies, her eyes ablaze with determination. She activates her Elekleid, its brilliant energy crackling around her, readying herself for a fight. She is resolved to prove her strength and determination to Saga.
"Fine! If you won't listen, then I'll make you understand!" she exclaims, launching herself towards Saga, fists clenched and sparks of electricity dancing around her.
Saga, his eyes filled with both concern and a determination of his own, swiftly reacts, countering her attacks with graceful yet precise movements. He seeks not to harm her, but to halt her aggressive assault and show her the futility of her solo battle.
Their clash echoes through the sacred grounds of Asgard, each blow resonating with the clash of wills and ideologies. As the confrontation unfolds, Hibiki begins to realize the depth of Saga's skill and experience. The gap in their abilities becomes apparent, yet her spirit refuses to yield.
As Hibiki stands before Saga, her mind races with thoughts of the potential futility of their alliance. She recognizes that even with the strength of Forte and Lala, they would likely be overpowered by Saga's immense power. The weight of the situation bears down on her, and she remains hesitant to reveal her true intentions.
Growing impatient with Hibiki's silence, Saga's eyes flash with determination. He knows that time is of the essence, and the urgency of their mission demands clear communication. With a deep breath, he focuses his Cosmo, channeling it into his fist. The energy crackles around him, a tangible manifestation of his resolve.
Before Hibiki can react, Saga unleashes his devastating technique, the Demon Emperor Fist. As the powerful strike connects, Hibiki's mind is engulfed in a swirling maelstrom of nightmarish illusions. The fabric of reality itself seems to twist and distort, making it almost impossible for her to distinguish between truth and illusion.
Trapped within this realm of nightmares, Hibiki feels the weakening of her control over her own Cosmo and the depth of her perception of reality. Her thoughts, once clear and steadfast, become clouded by the illusions that assail her senses.
Through the haze of torment, a voice pierces through, echoing in her mind. It is Saga, his voice laced with concern. "Hibiki, reveal your true intentions. I need to understand your motivations and the depth of your resolve."
Hibiki takes a deep breath, her voice filled with a mix of determination and concern. "I come from a parallel world—a world plagued by an organization known as T.E.C. They are turning parallel worlds into fuel, sacrificing the lives and essence of its inhabitants to create their so-called utopia. Countless innocent people are being absorbed, their existence erased for the sake of this twisted vision."
Saga's eyes widen with realization, his expression mirroring Hibiki's concern. The gravity of the situation dawns upon him, further cementing the importance of their alliance.
"We cannot allow such atrocities to continue," Saga says, his voice filled with resolve. "If what you say is true, then we must do everything in our power to put an end to T.E.C. and save the innocent lives caught in their grasp. No parallel world should be subjected to such exploitation."
As Hibiki sits in the snow, her mind reeling from the revelations and the effects of Saga's technique, she struggles to comprehend how he was able to manipulate her thoughts and emotions so effectively. The weight of the crisis in the parallel worlds weighs heavily on her, and she finds herself unable to contain her curiosity any longer.
"How... How did you do that to me?" she asks, her voice filled with a mix of astonishment and bewilderment. "How did you twist my mind?"
Her thoughts swirled like a tempest, grappling with the enigma before her. She had witnessed firsthand the immense strength and control that Saga possessed, the ability to manipulate not only his own Cosmo but also the very fabric of her being.
The weight of the crisis in the parallel worlds bore down upon her, the magnitude of the impending danger pressing against her spirit.