AN: Thank you for taking your time to read my fanfic! This is my first one, and English is not my native language, although i´ll do my best to use the proper grammar. Leave your opinions and thoughts in the Review section; favorite and follow if you like my work, it will greatly encourage me to pump up more chapters.
Disclaimer: Danmachi and its characters belongs to their respectives owners. I only own my OC.
Without further ado, enjoy!
Night had fallen over the labyrinth city of Orario. The city's inhabitants were currently holding a big celebration. People happily drank and ate all throughout the day, which soon turned into a jolly nightfall of festivities. For what reason one may ask? Well it's quite simple.
The Behemoth was slain, alongside his foul kin Leviathan. Two of the three humongous beasts that roamed the Lower world, terrorizing the many races that lived in it for millenia. Creatures of enormous power that brought death and destruction whenever they roamed. For a thousand years they remained undefeated, striking fear and despair on any that stood on their path. The leviathan was the undisputed ruler of the seas. A giant creature that signaled doom for anyone that traversed its waters. The Behemoth was the great ruler of the land. A poisonous titan that left nothing but a scarred land in its wake.
Only one remained of the primordial demons that escaped the dungeon in a time long past. The one eyed black dragon. A dragon with pitch black scales, dark as a starless night. A breath of fire, hotter than hell itself. And wings that caused storms with each momentum. Only he needed to fall so the three great quests could finally be complete. Only then would the world be truly safe from the danger of those great beasts. Who could possibly accomplish this amazing feat? One may inquire further. Well that was obvious. Who could it be if not the two greatest Familias to ever exist!?
The Zeus and Hera Familias. The two Familias that served as the foundation of the dungeon city; alongside the founding god Ouranos and the guild itself. Since the foundation of the city, they have served as a pillar that protects and guarantees its stability. Both Familias were at the height of their power, with each of their captains being at Level 8 and 9, and with powerful vice-captains such as Zald and Alfia. Not to mention the multiple Level 7's and below that made up their ranks, and the complete victories they held over other rival factions in Orario. Osiris, Set and Sobek Familias, their three main rivals in the city, were completely destroyed by them centuries Ago. Since then, they only grew in power and influence. Loki and Freya Familia, the two newest factions to seize power in their place, were nowhere near the power of their old rivals.
But victory always came at a cost, and this time was no different. Zald, one of Zeus Familia's mightiest warriors, had to eat some of the poisonous flesh of the behemoth to defeat it in a powerful and swift strike, but in exchange was plagued with its poison, draining his health little by little.
With the aid of the Poseidon Familia, aboard the sea fortress Hringhorni. Alfia, the renowned incarnation of talent, used her powerful magic to his fullest. While she defeated the leviathan with a single spell, her illness took its toll on her body as a consequence.
Both members had to be put out of action for the time being for their conditions.
So naturally, the whole of Orario was celebrating its biggest Familias great accomplishments. But on the contrary to the usual drinking and partying you would normally see all throughout the town, an elven couple was spending some precious free time with their loved one.
"Mom, Dad, where are we going now?" a small black haired elf asked, looking up at his parents with curiosity . His heterochromatic eyes shined under the street light, as they walked down one of the main streets of Orario, each parent holding his hands. The boy had sharp features; characteristic of the elven kind. What really made it apart from most elf's was his hair color and eyes. His hair was trimmed to ear level, with some spiked locks of hair throughout his head, and bangs that framed his forehead. (Imagine Argonautl's hair but trimmed on the sides.)
His right eye was red as ruby, while his left was blue as the sea. His parents let out a small forlorn smile slip in their lips as they looked at their son. Black hair and heterochromia. Both features were considered a curse by most elven cultures. And so, when the son of the two mightiest elf warriors of their forest kingdom was born, the king ordered his immediate execution. But they could not stand it. Using the darkness of the night as cover, the couple left their homeland for their son's sake. And in hope of giving him a better life, settled on the so-called center of the world.
The Dungeon city of Orario. A cultural center that reunited cultures from all the different races of the Lower world. A place where discrimination would not plague his life at every corner. A place where he could live free from elven superstition, that scoured him for just existing. Of course some of those beliefs would still be a problem even in Orario, as in the end, the elfs that lived here would carry those with them no matter what his parents did. But at least he wouldn't be an outcast and could live a happy life, no matter what most of his race thought of him. That was enough for them to choose this city 9 years ago.
"It's getting late dear. I guess it's already time to go home!" Selina, his mother, a beautiful elf with long silver hair and blue eyes answered to him. His father hummed in affirmation beside him.
"Your mother is right, it's time already." Jared added further. He had blonde hair and red eyes. He ruffled his son's hair. "Don't worry Luke. We still have tomorrow after all" the elf boy was fixing his hair annoyed. "Come on don't do that, it's embarrassing!" his father got a sly smile on his face.
"Oh, so you don't want to ride my back as we go back!?" he said teasingly.
"Of course I want to! B-But that's different." he pouted as his parents laughed good heartedly. "Come here. Up, up!" the blond elf grabbed his son and lifted him on his shoulders. From there, the boy got a good view from the main street and the many people on it. The street was filled with people of various races, many who were adventurers celebrating, mainly by drinking. But there were also many merchants who embarked on the chance to profit off the festivity, selling beverages, trinkets, food and various other things that would catch someone's interest. It was impressive the sheer amount of goods that were sold on the street shops and shacks. But what always marveled the little elf was the gigantic construction that towered over the city, piercing even the clouds in the sky.
The tower of Babel. Orario's postcard, it's most recognizable feature. The tower itself could be seen from miles away, just from how tall it was. If one were to find themselves lost on the outskirts of the city, he could simply look for the massive tower that signaled Orario's location. The structure stood right on top of the famous Dungeon. A place that contains the monsters that roamed the surface before the age of gods, monsters that were and still are all races' archenemies. Now they remain imprisoned inside the Dungeon, and their magic cores serve as the backbone of the city's economy. The magic cores were used as energy in many ways by the population, from the most mundane of things like lightning , refrigeration, water purification, etc. That's one of the reasons Orario is a commercial and cultural center, as it held the magic stone monopoly, it's only natural it would attract so many in pursuit of opportunity.
Beautiful, ain't it!" his father pointed out, dragging him out of his awe. The boy nodded excited. "I never tire of looking at it." The boy kept his gaze at the tower as they strolled down the street, on the path to their Familias homes.
Approaching their destination, two enormous mansions could be seen from afar. They stood out from every building around them from the sheer size of them. The trio stood in front of the compound's gates. On the left side was the Zeus Familia compound. It consisted of a large area, filled with buildings and structures of various uses that ranged from training grounds, blacksmithing furnaces to living and entertainment ones. The same could be seen in Hera's side.
The only thing that separated the two compounds was a thick, high wall that delimited each other's area. While the both Familias worked alongside each other for since their foundation, they were strictly secluded from each other when it came to daily activities and living. So much that they rarely entered each other's domain, making most relationships between the two Familias members strictly professional or amicable at best.
The exception being of course the elf couple that stood at the Hera's Familia gate. Each night they had to part ways, their son having to follow his father to retire for the night. Both Familias had a strict rule that was made between the two gods upon their Familias creation. Hera Familia would only accept females amongst their ranks, while Zeus would be a male only. That was agreed possibly because Zeus was the most perverted God there was, and Hera his spouse, wouldn't allow him to have other women in his Familia, out of jealousy.
They entered through the gate and made their way through the courtyard. The celebration would be held in Hera's mansion this time, as the last was held in Zeus's side. The muffled chatter and laughter could be heard from the outside, with the sound of music as well. As they approached the regal mansion a loud crash could be heard from inside the building. A line figure came flying from one of the windows in the third store, falling to the ground below screaming. His saving grace being some bushes that cushioned his fall.
"That's what you deserve, you old bastard!" another figure screamed from the broken window. Upon closer inspection, that figure was revealed to be The Silence itself. Alfia aka The Silence or Incarnation of talent, cursed at the figure she threw out, her face pure disgust.
" Ow, ow, ow… Did you really need to react like that?" The patron of the Zeus Familia sat up, hurting all over. The black haired elf's eyes widened.
"L-Lord Zeus!" he came running over to his God. "Are you OK!?" he asked with worry clear on his god looked at him groggy. "Hum? … oh kid, there you are!" he checked himself. "Yeah, I'll live, don't worry about it!" he flashed the kid a smile to sooth his worries. His parents approached casually, already used to the god's antics. Their son helped said God stand up.
"You never learn, do you? One more and you are out, you hear me!?" Someone screamed angrily from the window. This time it was not Alfia this time, but her goddess scolding the king of Olympus. His parents watched the scene in amusement as the god patted his clothing to get rid of the dirt." Yeah, yeah I heard you. I'll behave I promise!" he smiled suspiciously at her. The goddess just humphed and went back inside.
"Would you believe it!? That witch sent me flying because I accidentally bumped into her!" The elf couple shook their heads in exasperation, not believing one word from the famous perverted God. The heterochromatic elf was still agitated. "Are you sure you are OK?" Zeus just waved his concern away. "I'm fine! And we should probably head inside, else that old hag locks us outside out of spite!" Luke sent an angry glare his way.
"Hey, don't call Lady Hera that!" Zeus held a sly smile hearing his words. The kid had grown fond of them since his parents joined their Familias. He remembered like it was yesterday when they took his and Hera's step, seeking to join their Familias. Both deities always had a keen eye for talent, how would they ascend to the status of mightiest Familias in history otherwise? When they batted their eyes on the elven couple and saw the immense potential oozing from them, they didn't think twice before accepting their request. However, the couple were also parents, and were adamant that they would only be part of their Familias if their child was allowed as well.
That certainly complicated things. Not only they never had a couple join their ranks, much less one that had the responsibility of parenting . They would need to be more lenient with the two so that they could raise their son and be a more or less functional family. It would be a strange and quite peculiar change of their usual Familias dynamic, but not something extreme or damaging, so they ultimately relented.
And in Olympus name, was it worth it! Both elfs showed that they wouldn't regret their decision with their spectacular performance amongst their peers. They leveled up at an amazing rate in the following years, surpassing their companions and reaching level 7 just last year. And even among their peers of the same level, they were in the high end of it, only behind two executive members of their Familias, those being Alfia and Zald. That spoke for itself how much of a prodigy they were, and how they made up for their concession immensely, becoming essential in making their latest accomplishments a reality.
On another note, their child was a blessing in disguise. He was permitted to enter each compound without the restrictions most members usually had to face. So he was free to interact with both sides as he grew up, and damn it all didn't they grow attached to the little one. The couple usually took turns taking care of him at night nowadays, as he had a bedroom in each mansion.
But that was not the case when he was just an infant, that he needed to be constantly fed by his mother. At first, the state occupants were irritated by the constant crying deep into the night, but their annoyance was soon washed away by the cuteness overload he proportioned throughout the day. Even Hera, the hysterical yandere of a woman, that was insufferable in many's opinions, including Zeus, was softening to the child. During that time, she helped Selina take care of her newborn, even when he cried in the middle of the night. She was constantly nagging about how troublesome the kid was, but he could see the passionate glint in her eyes whenever she held him or spent time playing and telling him stories. Guess she's the goddess of childbirth for a reason heh?
Even Zeus had been jealous of the kid for being surrounded by such beauties all day, and they even liked his presence to put salt to the wound.
On his side, much like with Hera's children, he had grown attached to the boy as well in the course of the years. Spending their free time entertaining the kid, telling him about their adventures and feats and more recently started to train on the way of the sword. The God himself adored to read heroic tales to the boy, while also giving him some advice when dealing with the opposite sex. He had become a part of both Familias, and themselves became his family as well.
They opened the mansion's double doors and made their way inside. The building's main hall crawled with members of both Familias alongside some guests, mainly those smaller Familias that had close ties with them, but also others that participated in the great beasts hunting. A prime example being the Loki Familia executives, who served as supporters in their main quests.
They always looked up towards Zeus and Hera Familias with admiration and were determined to match them someday in the future. So even though their deities weren't at the best terms with each other, that didn't extend towards their members who sought to push their limits to reach the same height their rivals had achieved.
As they passed through the crowd Luke spotted someone he was excited to see today. A beautiful lady with silky smooth hair, white as snow and pale skin. Her frame looked delicate and frail as talked with her sister. Alfia watched over like a hawk in the party. She always did whenever her beloved sickly sister was beside her.
"Lady Meteria! You really came!" the elf exclaimed, running in her direction evading bumping on someone as he sneaked past the crowd. She turned towards his voice.
"Luke, I thought you were out with your parents tonight?" the boy stood in front of her. "I was, but we already came back!" pointed towards his parents, who were keeping an eye on him from afar as they conversed with the vice captain of Zeus Familia and their friend, Zald aka Gluttony. The boy turned back to address Meteria again but took notice of her sister behind her.
''Hi there Lady Alfia!" he spoke in a reserved voice, knowing of her distaste for loud noises. She eyed him for a few seconds with her cold gaze before it became just a bit softer.
"Greetings , child." Her tone was dry and serious, like it usually was with everyone except her sister, but her sister noted that it was less cold when she spoke to the little elf. He didn't mind, having already gotten used to her personality and mannerism.
In the time he spent with the Hera Familia, he got to know all of its members. Including the Empress, the Hera's captain and only level 9 adventurer know. He always found it amusing how she looked like a spitting image of her goddess. Alongside her, he also became acquainted with the two sisters. Meteria with her caring and loving persona, made them bound immediately.
He always loved to spend time with her in her bedroom and sometimes around the mansion, when her condition allowed her of course. He knew of her sickness and it saddened him that someone as kind as her was plagued with such disease since birth. Nevertheless he cherished the moments they were together, especially when her sister wasn't around to be with her.
Speaking of her. He was a little intimidated by her presence the first times he met her. She was always recluse, rarely talking to anyone besides the strictly necessary beside her sister. Her demeanor was cold and uninviting. But he always tried to speak with her and make her open up a bit. Most of the time he met a wall on his way, as she didn't bulge on her attitude. But little by little, bit by bit, she grew less distant with him. Especially after her sister lectured her that 'Deep down you love kids, but don't know how to deal with them!' and convinced her to at least give it a chance.
After that day she tried to hold at least some small talk, and as a couple of years passed she had become surprisingly amicable with him. They would look over Meteria and spend time together with her. She would even trust him with taking care of her frail sister when she wasn't there. Sometimes she would give him advice, tell some of her experiences or talk about various mundane topics as they had a tea party in the evening. Alfia begrudgingly had got used to the boy's company, even if she didn't admit it herself.
"Lord Zeus is causing trouble again huh?" the boy inquired looking at his God being scolded by Hera in the corner.
"That lecherous old bastard had it coming!" Alfia sent a furious glare with her mismatched eyes towards the reprobate boy looked at her eyes in awe.
One of the reasons Luke was fascinated with her in the beginning was because of their similar condition, as it was extremely rare to find another person with varying eye color like himself. Of course he became attracted to her like a moth to a lamp to sate his curiosity and bond with her, no matter how dismissive she was initially.
"Lord Zeus is a wise and benevolent god, but he can also be quite depraved sometimes." Meteria pointed out, giving a small heartily laugh. He got in trouble frequently from trying to peep on Hera's girl while they bathed or changed.
"So that's why he always gave me some strange advice when 'dealing with women'! Whatever he meant by that… " Both girls' eyes twitched at the information. He really was hopeless wasn't he? Their gaze fell on the depraved God, who was currently running away from his spouse's ire.
"Lady Alfia, how are you feeling? I heard your condition worsened after the battle with the great beast! You sure you shouldn't be resting yourself?" the elf questioned, sincere concern clear in his voice. Alfia rolled her eyes.
"There's no need for your concern, child, I'm fine! Besides, I wouldn't leave my dear sister alone whatever state I may be in." She dismissed his worries. She did however, feel a strange warm sensation in her chest whenever he showed concern for her state, but she could not quite point it out. Her sister smiled at her with an odd expression on her face.
" There's no reason for you to push yourself. I can always take care of her, you know it!" he rebutted, Meteria's smile grew even larger.
"How kind of you dear, but there's no need for it. My sickness hasn't acted up for some time." She gave her sister a side glance. "Besides, I think my sister means that she will watch over me in the festivities" That she would. Alfia dreaded even thinking about the idea of some lowlife scum ever touching a single lock of her sister's hair. Gods have mercy on the soul of the poor bastard that ever tried it.
"But I can do that too!" And she knew he could. It was a death wish to even think about messing with The Silence's sister, but it also extended towards the black haired elf in front of her. There was a time where some elven members of both their Familias had the brilliant idea of tormenting the boy because he was 'cursed'.
While they deserved it, Meteria shuddered thinking about how dearly they paid for it. Especially after, surprisingly, her sister decided to 'Teach them a lesson'. After that incident, no one dared do anything to him since then.
"I know dear, but I don't mind having her beside me. Especially after her last stunt!" Meteria finished the last part accusingly. Her sister clicked her tongue.
"Don't start it, you know I had no choice. Everyone's life was on the line!" she crossed her arms averting her gaze from her sister. Her sister sagged in surrender.
"I know, it's just that I don't want to see you risk yourself like you always do! You are precious to me and you know it." She used her renowned puppy eyes trick on her sister.
"Sigh… Fine, I promise to be more careful from now on!" Alfia was impressed how effective her sister's act worked out on everybody she used it. Luke watched the scene flabbergasted by how Alfia acted like a completely different person towards her sister.
"Lady Meteria is right, you can't be pushing yourself. What would we do without you around Lady Alfia!?" he lectured her, crossing his arms with a hmph, her sister nodding along. Alfia's left eye twitched. Really the nerve of this boy.
They conversed for some time before Luke's parents approached them.
" Hello Alfia, Meteria! " They greeted them with a bow. The conversation trio turned towards the newcomers.
"Why hello Selena, Jared!" Meteria greeted back excitedly. Her sister just nodded at them in recognition.
"Our son isn't bothering you is he?" Jared asked nonchalant. "Of course not! You know he's a nice child, his company is nothing but pleasant!" Meteria waved his worries away.
"Good to hear… But Luke, why don't you talk to uncle Zald? We need to discuss something with them." The looked puzzled at them for a second before nodding and going on his way. As he was out of ear shot his parents turned towards the duo.
"So how are you holding up from the last battle, Alfia?" Selena's tone was serious.
"My body is more debilitated after the fight, but I don't know if the effects are permanent or not." She answered honestly, having an idea of why they were questioning her. The confront with the two foul beasts was gruesome, brutal and visceral. The two mightiest foes their Familias ever faced in its existence. But the last quest…
"The one eyed black dragon is the strongest amongst the three great quests. We need to make sure that we are prepared and at full strength if we are to have a chance against him.!" Jared exclaimed in a serious and concerned voice. The mood between them turned somber. They all knew what it meant if they were not ready for what came next.
Annihilation. Utter and complete destruction.
The three great quests were no simple feat. They knew if they were not strong enough to defeat the dragon they would be slaughtered, they'd seen as much when they faced the other two. These beasts were the ultimate enemies of the world, and their immense power proved their Infamy.
"Zald is in no condition to fight for the time being. His strength may be hampered definitely because of the poison in his body!" Jared continued.
"No cure has been found wet. The Behemoth's poison is the strongest one ever seen, nothing the best healers tried seems to work on it…" Selena trailed off. The implications were clear as a cloudless sky.
Two of their mightiest warriors might not be at their fullest in their greatest challenge. After a few seconds of deafening silence between them Meteria spoke.
"I-I know you can handle it. We are the greatest Familias of all time, aren't we!?" Meteria tried to lift their spirits up. The three level 7's shared a troubled look.
'We can only hope… ', that's the thought they shared.
The time had come. After months of meticulous planning, storing and preparing the day they hunt started came. Orario's inhabitants filled the main street, cheering and wishing good luck for the subjugation party that had one single goal. Kill the dreaded dragon and bring ultimate victory to their Familias. The ultimate glory of saving the world from calamity and engraving their names in history. A feat that would go down in history, forever remembered and their legacy immortalized.
As the party neared the city's gate, they gave their loved ones their goodbyes. It was certain it was the last time some of them would be seeing each other. As the departure began a couple could be seen embraced with a small figure.
"Don't worry about it sunshine, we'll come back just like last time." Selena comforted her son as he cried in her arms. His father was tightly embracing him as well.
"Well be back before you know it! Look when we are back I will train you with my sword, what do you say?" Jared tried to ease his son's mind with the offer. After half a minute of a warm embrace later, Luke broke away.
"P-Promise?" he sobbed, tears streaming down his face.
"Of course! When we are back I'll show you some of my best techniques, so master the basics, that we will tap into advanced territory!" His father gave him a big warm smile, ruffling his hair.
His son laughed sadly. "Y-You know I don't like t-that…" he mumbled sobbingly.
"Be a good boy, and listen to Zeus and Hera in our stead, OK?" her mother said, wiping her son's tears. He nodded frantically.
"I-I will, promise" he hugged them one more time. They stayed like that for a minute, his parents wiping their tears so he didn't see them, before they had to let go.
"We have to go now. Goodbye Luke, take care." his mother said her goodbye as his father crouched to his eye level.
"Never give up on your dreams, no matter the obstacles, no matter what others may say. If you fall, get up, wipe the dirt and chase your ideals, got it?" Jared said earnestly as he placed a hand on his son's shoulder. He looked with an aghast expression for a moment before nodding.
" Got it, I won't let you down! " he said, determination clear in his voice.
" Hey Jared! Selena! We need to go. " Maxim, Zeus Familia's captain's scream reached them from afar. They shared one last look with their son.
"Goodbye…" Luke watched as they passed through the gates, giving them one last wave goodbye as they turned in his direction. They waved back before joining the rest of the group.
He kept looking at the party until the gates were closed. He stood there for a minute before two hands landed on each of his shoulders. He looked to his sides and saw Hera and Zeus looking down at him sympathetically.
"Come on kid, let's go for a walk!" Zeus said, gesturing towards the main street. Luke nodded absent minded, still thinking about his parents.
"They were proven to be formidable in combat, they will succeed I'm certain of it!" Hera commented by his side. Silence stretched for half a minute before as they walked someone uttered a word.
"They won't come back, will they?" the elf said with an empty voice. Both deities shared a troubled look between them. "I saw how many didn't when they returned the last time…" They stopped walking, the boy started shaking as tear droplets hit the pavement. Hera couldn't stand to see him like this.
"They may." She stood in front of the boy. "Life can be cruel and fate can be unfair. The best we can do is pray for their success and safe return." Hera's tone spoke of eons of wisdom and experience with both the Lower world and heaven. Luke kept his gaze down, his hair obscuring his eyes.
"Look kid, I know it's harsh but, time will show you that not everything goes as we want them to. Reality is often disappointing, so we have to adapt ourselves to it and accept that bad things happen." Zeus stated, crouching in front of the boy, planting a hand on his shoulder.
"But not everything is lost! We need to trust them on their task and hope for the best." The elf stood there unmoving for a minute, a pregnant silence hung in the air.
"C-Can you help me with training Lord Zeus? I have a promise to fulfill." the boy asked, wiping his mismatched puffy eyes, red from crying. Zeus grinned.
"Of course kid, I'll gladly help you!" he patted the boy's shoulder before getting up.
"We are here for you, remember that Luke." Hera said in a motherly voice. The boy gave her a small smile, nodding in sequence.
"So, what about riding on my back towards home? Meteria must be lonely in there!" the boy's features brightened. He hopped into Zeus back as they started to head towards their domain, Hera laughing lightly at the scene.
'I hope you'll be okay, Mom… Dad…' Luke wished for their return as he kept his gaze forward, specifically towards the great tower as he thought about his parents.
Jared coughed blood as he dragged himself off the dirt. Selena lied next to him struggling to get up. Their armor and clothing were in taters, their bodies littered with cuts and burn injuries . Blood poured from their wounds as they stood against inevitability.
The surroundings looked like it was hell itself, the ground was pitch black, burned to the crisp. Smoke flew high in the air as a fire spread for miles. The inevitable roared with a volume that shook the very earth, his putrid breath smelled of death itself. He peered at them through his only good eye, his gaze pure malice. He stepped towards a group that was trying to escape his wrath, each movement of his gigantic form felt like an earthquake. They stood there watching as the personification of doom wreaked havoc on its poor prey.
It wasn't supposed to end like this. Their Familias felled the great beasts before this, but they paled in comparison to this abomination. His power was way beyond what they predicted , by a large marge. What they thought would be a difficult quest, turned out to be an impossible mission. The Zeus and Hera Familias were defeated…
NO
They were completely eradicated. The greatest Familias of all time, who had the strongest adventurers since the gods' descent to the lower world, were completely overpowered.
After months searching for the dragon, emboldened by the flame of ambition, on an ignorant search for untold glory, they had found him. But when they faced it in combat… He quickly put those foolish ambitions to rest.
Each of their attacks did nothing against his thick black scales. No physical attacks, no spells, even their strongest magic swords were futile against it. And so, one by one they were mercilessly slaughtered. What was initially a battlefield filled with valiant cries of war, now was full of screams of agony and pure terror as the beast stomped, gashed, ate and set everything on fire in his path. Even their strongest members didn't stand a chance. No one did when they witnessed true horror.
…
It was sentient…
The Black Dragon wasn't a simple minded beast, hellbent on killing anything it saw.
No
It strategized and adapted to all the tactics it came up against, squashing any opposition that dared challenge it. But the worst of all… It could speak.
The King of the Monsters was capable of speech…
''You have doomed yourselves!''
Once those words were uttered by the beast, right as its eye landed on the subjugation party, everyone froze. There were no records of a monster that could talk, not even from before the age of heroes, so naturally the adventurers were taken back with the dreadful revelation.
If it could talk, it could think and if it could think…he could adapt and see through their strategies.
But on they marched, rallied by their leaders they proceeded as planned and struck the dragon with everything they got. After each failure in even denting the beast´s armor, and its subsequent devastating counterattacks, the morale amongst their ranks was plummeting .
That was until their captains joined the fray, sparkling hope in their subordinates that were on the brink of despair.
Maxim, the captain of Zeus Familia, a level 8 adventurer and currently the strongest in his Familia. The same one that challenge all the first class adventurers of Orario the day before he headed on this suicide mission and defeated all of them without breaking a sweat.
The Empress, captain of Hera Familia, only level 9 adventurer in existence and arguably the strongest as well. A powerhouse which many dreaded facing off in combat. The highest leveled adventurer. Both proud and fierce warriors with an unshakeable spirit. The best of the best. Their last best hope. Their only hope.
Failed them spectacularly.
The fearsome duo fought, bled, lost their limbs, while giving all they had against the monster. In the end, the inevitable got them, and they were soon running away screaming for their life. The strongest adventurers they had were running away like miserable wimps before meeting the same fate as everyone else. After that point all hope was lost. Everyone still alive fleed in a useless attempt to survive the onslaught. One by one they were being picked off like ants running from a bird, all while being mocked by the monster, who took pleasure in ending their lives.
"Don't you see…The beauty of it… The inevitability… You rise, only to fall… Hahahaha … You amuse me." The creature's voice carried an eerie nonchalant tone to it, as he toyed with his victims.
The pair limped their way towards one little group of survivors, Alfia and Zald were amongst them. The group consisted of supporters from another Familia who stood at the rear, they were helping both their allies who looked like they went through hell.
"You two look like shit." Jared gave a dry laugh. Zald and Alfia turned towards the two.
"Look who's talking!" Alfia put as much sarcasm as she could given their situation. Zald looked at them with his uninjured eye.
"I see you didn't fare much better than everyone else." he saw the grave wounds inflicted on the couple. Jared gave a small laugh.
"You don't sa-'' the elf didn't finish before vomiting blood, falling on his knee. Selena grunted as she helped him to his feet. They didn't miss how the half the right side of her abdomen was missing, even a small part of her ribcage could be seen as blood poured out of her. One of the supporters helped her bandage the area. They looked at each other for a few moments before speaking.
"We ain't both gonna make it." Jared held a sorrowful expression as he wiped his mouth.
"We don't have much time left so…" the silver haired elf looked towards the dragon as he ate another unfortunate soul and burned the other with his firebreath.
"We'll hold him off." The blond elf had a coughing fit and spit blood before continuing. "You– huf– You can use our distraction to escape." his breathing was becoming ragged. His lungs were probably punctured.
"But what about that child of yours?" Alfia inquired, gritting her teeth from moving her injured body. The couple shared a knowing look before nodding to one another. They stepped up offering their swords.
" Can you give them to him for us, please?" " Selena spoke with a pleading tone as tears started leaking from her eyes.
" I promised I would train him with my sword, even show some of my best techni-" He started vomiting again. He lifted his head back up, his tears mixed with the blood on his face.
"Please…"
Zald took Jared's sword without excitation. Alfia did the same after a moment. The couple smiled at them.
"Thank you" Both said in unison. They stood there in thought for a moment before speaking up, the sound of the rampaging dragon followed by his maniacal laughter growing closer.
"I know it's selfish of us but can you grant us a last wish?" Jared started, both elves had forlorn expressions on their faces. They hesitated for a moment, before the agonizing screams of a poor bastard reached their ears, bringing them back to the severity of the situation.
"Can you two look out for Luke in our stead? I know our gods surely will, but I don't know what will become of them after this fiasco" Selena pointed towards the beast. Alfia and Zald were silent, thinking about their request.
"I've seen how you act towards our son Alfia, you are fond of him, don't try to deny it!" Selena remarked as The Silence gave her a puzzled look.
"If you don't want to, we´ll understand, it's just… He's gonna need someone when we don't come back, so ple-"
"If that's what you wish, then I'll accept it!" Alfia interrupted Jared mid pleading. Zald nodded beside her. "Very well, I'll look after the kid… IlI'll miss you two, it was an honor to fight by your side!" he said proudly. Both elves were openly crying now.
"Goodbye you two… And good luck." Alfia said as the dragon claimed another victim before looking their way.
He seemed to smile with his jagged teeth that were akin to swords. They hurriedly started to make their escape as the dragon moved in their direction. The elves ran as best they could in the opposite direction to attract the dragon's attention as they launched quick spells at him. It succeeded as they gained his full focus. Once they were far enough from their allies they stopped and prepared their magic. They locked eyes one last time before nodding and starting their chants.
''Dread it… Run from it… Destiny arrives all the same… And now it's here, or should I say, I am… I am inevitable!'' The dragon´s rumbling voice shook the earth as he walked in their direction. The duo paid him no heed, focusing on their last stand.
I'm sorry my dear, we won't be coming back to you. We broke our promise. But we hope that one day you can forgive us.
We'll be waiting for you in heaven, and we will find you there no matter how long it takes. Goodbye my dear, take care…
"Skärande Stråle" Jared released his magic.
"Schreiender Wind" Selena launched hers right after.
Both lightning and wind spells combined as they flew towards the incoming monster. He opened its gargantuan mouth and launched his hellish breath of flame in retaliation. The attacks collided, battling against each other for superiority, but after some seconds of resistance the inevitable happened. They held each other in their arms in a last caring embrace. Flames engulfed their figures.
'Love you, Luke...' they perished with a smile on their faces.
Sweat trickled down his forehead. His breath was heavy as he focused on the target in front of him. His muscles tensed in anticipation for the next move, the grip on his wooden sword was tight. The duelists kept their gaze firmly on one another, looking for any openings in their guards. Only the blowing wind could be heard as the air around them was tense, the two stood firmly in place.
The onyx haired elf dashed towards the foe, lifting dirt under his feet. He closed in on the opponent going for a straight trust. However it was a mere faint as he, with precise footwork, got in the flank of his foe, going for the real attack. The man reacted fast, blocking his slice and batting the sword sideways, leaving the elf wide open. He capitalized on it by swinging his wooden sword. He sliced only the air, his opponent going under his swing and into his guard. He stepped back and launched a series of attacks in hope of fending off his opponent.
The elf demonstrated amazing reflexes and footwork as he dodged, parried and even found space to launch his counter strike. Putting more pressure on him, the elf kicked him in the legs, making him lose his balance. As the man stumbled, his opponent hit in the helmet, disorienting and bringing him down. As he recollected himself on the ground, the tip of a sword filled his vision.
"It's over." Luke put the sword by his side and extended a hand for his God. Zeus wore a sly smile on his face as he took it.
The kid was taking his training extremely seriously. For the past months they trained every single day of the week, no matter the occasion. It wasn't unusual to see the boy training but not this spartan regime he put himself through, day after day he practiced relentlessly, always seeking to improve from the last day. Zeus even arranged some veteran adventurers to further the elf's training, giving him contact with different methods, magics and styles of fighting that would mount to his experience and overall growth. His determination to grow was rewarded with steadfast progress as Zeus, who could initially overpower the elf with his experience and larger frame, now struggled to even hit the rascal.
While Zeus's real strength and power was contained with his Arcanum and so was no stronger than a regular man, he was still an expert warrior, and mentor if he might say himself. So the growth the boy presented from his self induced harsh training was no small feat, and heaven's was he proud of him.
What also didn't go unnoticed by him was how much he developed and integrated his Sixth sense into his fighting style. That skill gave an inane sense of incoming danger, basically making him have no blind spot. The drawback was that he needed to be fast enough to react to it, otherwise he would just know the blow was coming, but wouldn't be able to do anything about it. Kind of scary to know harm is coming your way but there's no way for you to stop it.
The boy had even started to throw magic into the jumble and integrate his spells into his swordplay. At this rate he will make a fine magic swordsman in the future. But he had also got started in the basics of archery, much to Zeus´s surprise. While he got the gist of it quite fast, he had the unorthodox idea of shooting while moving, and that was where he was having a hard time. In summary, the boy had great potential, being much of a prodigy as his parents were. Guess the fruit doesn't fall away from the tree, huh.
"Nice one kid, got me pretty good there!" Zeus said, removing his helmet and clutching the side of his head. "But I think I'm not a not a good training partner anymore…"
"Nonsense, you are an excellent swordsman! I'm honored to train with you Lord Zeus!" The elf bowed. "You flatter me, but I'm only hindering your growth. You have already surpassed me, kid!" he said pridefully as he patted the boy's shoulder.
"I'm proud of you kid. You have come a long way since we started your training, but I really shouldn't be surprised. You are a prodigy and you have the determination to boost, that's the best formula for a great adventurer, if I've ever seen one!" a grin split his face, the boy eyed him with surprise.
"You really think so? Can I become as strong as my parents? " The kid's tone was excited and his eyes held an hopeful glint. His God nodded and hummed affirmatively. "I'm certain of it! In due time you could even surpass them if you put the work to it!"
That's why he'd been working so hard these past months since his parents had gone in the last great quest. He always admired their strength and power and sought to reach them someday, this only amplified as he interacted with all the mighty adventurers of his and Hera's Familia. They had introduced him to the basics of swordsmanship, magic and combat in general. The techniques, spells, experience and sheer power they displayed were captivating to him, inspiring him to better himself and reach their level. He was flabbergasted when he heard that Maxim, his level 8 captain, defeated the strongest adventurers in Orario almost single handedly!
''Come on boy, let's head still got training to do in the evening, and you can´t fight with an empty belly!'' Luke nodded as he trailed behind the god. Entering the main house they were met with the rare sight of Hera in the main hall. She paced back and forth, looking troubled by something or someone. Zeus' eyes had gone from surprised to sorrowful as he looked at his distressed spouse.
''Lady Hera, what's the matter? You rarely come to Lord Zeus´s home.'' She froze upon hearing the elf´s voice. Hera turned slowly towards him, she averted her eyes opening her mouth a few times but ultimately seemed to hesitate. With his worst thoughts basically confirmed now, there's no point in delaying it.
Every deity that bestowed a falna to a mortal shared a spiritual link with them from that point on. That way they could keep count of every child they had in their Familia, and with that they knew when one of them perished. To them it was akin to a burn on their back whenever they lost a child.
A few weeks back was when they felt it. They felt it as one by one their children were struck down by the dragon. At every death the pain seemed to grow so much it became almost unbearable, it was the worst sensation they had ever felt. Along with it came another that stung them even more. Failure. They had failed the last great quest…
Zeus and Hera had agreed to withhold this from the boy. They didn't have the courage to tell him about his parents demise. Call them cowards if you want, but the child deserved to be happy for a little while longer. When the news inevitably reached the city, that's when they couldn't avoid it anymore.
Zeus placed a hand on the boy's shoulder, making him perplexed about what was happening. Hera gathered her courage as her husband nodded at her.
''Luke I-I…'' The elf´s mismatched eyes widened in horror at Hera´s hesitation. She looked down before continuing.
''The subjugation party failed… I´m sorry, but…''
…
''Your parents didn't make it…''
Everything became a blur to him after those words left her lips. He felt numb as the goddess embraced him, he didn't even register the tears that streamed down his cheeks. His worst nightmare, the thing he dreaded the most, was just confirmed in front of him. He could have screamed in sorrow, cursed at the world for his loss, even blamed the gods in front of him for sending his family to their deaths. But all he felt was a void, an indescribable emptiness inside him as he cried in Hera´s arms.
Time seemed to fly by as he drowned in his mourning. They were really gone. He couldn't even show them how much he trained, how much he progressed. They would never fullfill their last promise to him…
His father would never carry him on his back. His mother would never tell him stories about heroes of a time long past. They died and he could only face this harsh reality. All the people he had grown with, who he saw as part of his own family, were dead. All those adventurers that were so kind and respectful with him, his family, his friends. All of them died.
Even Lady Alfia, who was so cold and unapproachable to everyone. Whose heart seemed to open, even if just a bit to him, was gone. Mr. Zald, who treated him so kindly and attentively that some of his companions started to compare him to an uncle, died. He was drawn out of his sorrow as Zeus entered Hera´s room.
''Luke… You need to come with me. Freya and Loki will soon seize this opportunity to take our place. They will probably exile us from the city, so i´ve arranged with Hermes so his captain would quietly take you and Meteria out of the city before that happens.'' The elf let go of Hera´s arms as he looked with stern, cold eyes to him.
''I´m not leaving leaving you two, no matter what those greedy bastards do!'' His tone held no room for argument.
''We don't know what they would do to you Luke. You are the last member of Zeus Familia in Orario, it's safer if you go with them!'' Hera pleaded beside him. The elf just shook his head in response.
''You are everything I have left…I´ll never leave your sides, so please…'' The boy´s plea broke their hearts even more. Silence filled the room as both deities looked at one another in contemplation.
…
''Sigh… Fine, you can stay. Be aware that they will not treat us kindly!'' Zeus said relenting. The boy nodded earnestly. ''I am, but i'll endure!'' some light returned to his mismatched eyes. Zeus eyed him for a second with a faint smile forming on his lips.
''Okay, i will head to Meteria and get her to leave with Lydia, see you then!'' He left after saying his parting words. Luke's gaze was fixed on the door Zeus just left through, his mind away from his grief, occupied with the danger that loomed over them in the horizon.
"I'm sorry little one…" his gaze fell on the goddess as she addressed him, his eyes were still cold but looked more alive than before.
"I'm sorry, for all of it… We were supposed to kill those abominations and be hailed as heroes. Not be destroyed and thrown out like some mangy dog. We didn't deserve this end…Your parents didn't deserve this." Her voice cracked as she broke down crying on the ground. The onyx haired elf embraced her tightly, not only in an attempt to comfort her, but also himself. Really, how did they end up like this? The mighty Zeus and Hera Familias, reduced to shambles. Their bright future and ambitions turned to ash by the flame of a despicable dragon.
A couple of hours had passed before the time had finally come.
The doors of Hera´s home were kicked open. Various adventurers from the Freya Familia stood in a circle formation protecting a central figure. Freya, the goddess of love and beauty, strolled through the main hall guarded by her fanatic children. She looked pensive at the mansion´s valued portraits, statues,jewelry and most importantly, the resources they had gathered.
''Search the place, take anything of value you find. Ottar, bring that old harlot, Iwant her to kneel before me." The boar man nodded and started to search for Hera. Freya took a seat on an expensive and regal armchair, patiently awaiting for her vice-captain as her subordinates turned the mansion on its head around her.
Ottar had gone towards the most probable place the goddess was currently in. Her bedroom. So he started his search from there. Arriving at what was most likely her room he kicked open the door, sending it flying clean off its hinges. Entering the room, he saw his target alongside a rather peculiar elf kid, who stood protectively in front of her.
''What do you want!'' The kid spat with venom, his eyes held a cold rage inside them, focused directly on him.
''Lady Freya commands Hera´s presence before her.'' His tone was commanding and absolute, hellbent on satisfying his goddess desire. The elf bared his teeth at him.
''And what if we refuse!?" The boar's eyes sharpened at the defiance.
''Then she will be taken by force. You got no choice on the matter, now stand aside!'' The kid started to draw the sword he carried on his hip, but was stopped as two hands landed on his. He looked to his side and saw Hera´s resigned and pleading eyes.
''Please Luke, there's no reason to fight at this point…" Her touch was soft and soothing, making the boy freeze for a second and sport a distant and thoughtful gaze. Tense seconds passed between them before the boy sheathed his sword. Ottar stepped outside, awaiting them in the corridor. Hera gave the elf´s hand a gentle squeeze before also heading out, said elf following her diligently.
They strolled through the various halls of the mansion. Luke's eyes were squinted, hatred leaking out of them as he saw multiple members of Freya´s Familia pillage everything they found worthwhile, not caring a single bit about the heinous act. After a walk that seemed to never end in the boy´s heavy mind, they made it to the main hall. In the middle of it sat the goddess responsible for all this, a satisfied smile adorning her face. It only made the elf´s blood boil even more. All around her were the executive members of her Familia.
''My, my, what a pleasure to see you, Hera. It´s been quite some time since we spoke face to face.'' She gestured towards the mess around the hall. ''Though I presume it will be our last, but before we start, kneel !'' Ottar shoved Hera forwards and forced her head and knees to meet the marble.
Luke´s feet moved before he could think.
Drawing his sword he dashed towards the aggressor, leaping in the air to strike his head with a clean swipe. Ottar easily catched the blade of the sword, but Luke used his grip on it as leverage and brought his leg to meet the side of the boaz's head. He also caught the kid´s kick as if it was nothing and held his feet tightly, but his eyes widened slightly as the elf´s palm filled his vision.
''Gehen''
A bright light filled the room, soon followed by a loud boom, one that sounded like a thunder struck the place. Smoke filled the air, the hectic footsteps of all the members of Freya´s Familia could be heard, scrambling towards the explosion.
Luke's gaze was fixated on the cloud of smoke right in front of his outstretched hand. His eyes widened when he saw the boar´s gaze, looking him straight in the eye. Dammit, it didn't work!
He barely had time to register his thoughts before he was flung at the nearest wall. He spat blood as he crashed on it with his back, cracking the entire wall. Ottar walked slowly towards his target, his steps echoing through the hall. The kid tried to suck air to his lungs, gasping and throwing up blood afterwards.
''Facing overwhelming odds to protect your goddess… You are brave kid, i respect that.'' Ottar said in his usual plain tone, but his eyes held a sympathetic glint towards his foe.
''Don´t hurt him, tell him to stop Freya! i´ll do anything but please order him to stand down!'' Hera pleaded desperately, her voice frantic as she begged her rival. Freya laughed heartily, enjoying every second of Hera´s despair. As the vice-captain reached the boy, Hera kneeled with her forehead on the ground.
''Please, he has lost enough already…Don´t do this, i beg of you!'' Her pleas were pitiful and despondent, a sorry sight that many thought they would never see from the proud goddess . Freya stopped laughing, only savoring every moment of her rival´s humiliation and suffering.
As the boar man extended his hand to grab the elf´s gasping form, a heavy hand grabbed his wrist.
''Enough.'' His captain's piercing gaze met him. Her grip was bone crushing. The rest of the Familia were all around the room, guarding their goddess.
''He's only a child. One that probably just lost everything!'' Her tone was furious. Mia Grand looked at the bloodied elf kid that struggled to get up. That's the only explanation she had for his reckless attitude of facing a level 6 adventurer… He was protecting what he had left. Really, for a boy to go through so much at this age. She felt sorry for him.
"That 's no fun Mia. I wanted to see Hera plead more!'' Freya protested with a condescending attitude, giving no regards for the boy´s state. The dwarf looked at her goddess with an expression that was hard to describe, but one thing was clear in her eyes, disappointment.
At that moment, various figures could be heard entering through the mansion´s broken down entrance. At the front stood the king of olympus, running frantically towards the commotion. Entering the main hall, his worries were confirmed as he saw the elf´s using the cracked wall as support, blood dripping from his mouth.
''What are you doing Freya, he's just a kid!'' He looked horrified at the goddess. Freya rolled her eyes, placing her arms below her chest.
"He's the one that attacked my vice-captain after he made Hera kneel before me. I say that falls on him.'' Her tone was nonchalant and uncaring. Zeus clenched his fists.
The rest of the entourage arrived at the hall. Loki Familia executives, escorting the mischievous goddess, who strolled inside with her arms behind her head. Her slitted eyes opened a bit, revealing red irises that took a look around the place.
''Whistle… Guess Freya enjoyed her time here aint´ya!'' She looked at the disheveled Hera on the floor. Yeah, she was definitely savoring the moment. Loki followed Hera´s concerned gaze, landing on the black haired elf child. Her eyes sharpened seeing the damaged wall and the blood around the elf.
''Oi… i know you have a beef with the old hag, but this is too much.'' Her tone was uncharacteristically quiet and serious for the usually boisterous goddess. Riveria walked towards the injured boy, Zeus following her steps. Mia had already dragged her subordinate away from the poor kid.
The high elf stopped in front of the boy, she extended her palm towards him, but froze. He looked straight up at her. Blood stained the side of his head, his breathing was heavy and ragged, his mouth caked with blood. But what froze her were his eyes. Cold and accusing, a look that reminded her of the sins she was committing on her goddess behalf. Her guilt made her unable to face that judging gaze for more than a second.
''I-I mean you no harm…'' She trailed off, his gaze making her heart heavier and heavier as it never left her face. His gaze switched to the god, questioning her trustworthiness. Zeus' reply was just a curt nod. The elf lowered his head, his bangs obscuring his eyes.
''Go ahead…'' His empty tone made Riveria hesitate. It carried so much with it. His silent rage, his resignation, his sorrow. She slowly started to heal his wounds, remorse evident on her features.
''I´m sorry…' her whisper was barely audible, only heard by the elf in front of her, who had not reacted to it, keeping his gaze on the ground. Silence filled the room, the only sound being the decreasing ragged breathing of the elf.
''Now that you are done with your pitiful games, i guess we´ll take our leave!'' Zeus stepped up, gaining everyone's attention. Freya´s eyes gained a purple glint. Her gaze wandered towards her Familia´s captain, her disapproving glare evident. She hummed in contemplation for half a minute.
''Fair, I guess she has been disgraced enough. Hurry up and get out of my sight… And we better not cross paths again in the future, understood?'' She shooed them with her hand. Hera grit her teeth, barely containing herself. She calmed her mind once someone grabbed her hand. Beside her stood the heterochromatic elf, completely healed, the only indicator that he had been is the dried blood on his hair and face. His mismatched eyes held some light as they looked concerned at her.
''Come. let's leave at once!'' The goddess guided the elf she saw as one of her children by the hand. Zeus trailed behind as did Freya and Loki Familia.
As they made their way outside the main gates they were met with a scene that was already expected. The streets were full, each side of it gathered an immense crowd. But they weren't cheering or wishing them good luck. No, the crowd cursed, threw stones and trash at them. The same people that they protected and guarded for millenia, who saw them as heroes and the pride of the Orario. The Familias that delved deeper in the dungeon than any other, the shield and the sword of Orario, the slayers of the great beasts , who were a sign of respect and admiration.
Were thrown out of the city without any regards for their past deeds that turned Orario into what it was today. So much for their admiration huh?
It seemed fate enjoyed being cruel to them. Once before they were paraded as heroes and saviors. Now their glorious parades turned into a march of shame out of the city, quite the irony don´t you think?
Luke eyed the citizens with hatred. How could they? After everything that Zeus and Hera had done to the city, this is their reward? Don´t they see how much they sacrificed? How much they lost… Because of a single failure they were treated as the lowest scum on the face of the earth. Damn them, damn them all!
He felt a hand ruffle his hair, hardened by the dried up blood. He looked up and was met with Zeus' forlorn gaze, using his body to protect the kid from anything they launched their way.
"Don't let anger consume your heart, Luke. It will crush your soul and turn you into a lifeless husk moved only by spite." The god gestured to the people in the sideways.
"The one thing people love more than a hero is to see one fail, fall, die trying. In spite of everything we've done for them, eventually they might hate us. That is the arduous path of those that choose the way of the hero." Luke listened attentively, gritting his teeth as a tomato hit the god's head.
" Endure, that's what a hero does, they might hate him for it but that's what he does. And with that endurance comes the power to do what no else can, the right thing." the elf's eyes widened at Zeus' philosophy of a hero's hardship.
"The entire world can look down on him, despise him, but he stands firm on his beliefs, never letting their hatred shake his values. Making the right choice, despite what others may think of him, putting his life on the line for it, that's the mark of a true hero." Zeus finished, a slight smile adorned his face.
'Doing what's right, in spite of what others may think in the end.' Luke pondered this idea as they walked down the main street.
So, everything they had done wasn't for nothing. Killing the Behemoth and Leviathan, delving deep in the dungeon and mapping the floors and gathering information that would help others in their journeys. Protecting the city from any danger, be it from outside or within, serving as examples to be followed by others. All they did was worth it in the end, because… they were doing the right thing.
The city´s gate loomed closer. The three outcasts were accompanied by the entourage of both their old rivals, now turned usurpers.
Freya's children wore sick smiles of satisfaction, taking pleasure in seeing them cross the gates, the only exception being the captain, whose expression looked troubled and her eyes somber, and Ottar's usual stoic attitude. Most of her children held a deep grudge against Hera because of a bet Freya had lost against her, making her unable to leave Orario and forcing her to assist Zeus and Hera Familias.
Loki's were a stark contrast to the former. Downtrodden and ashamed expressions was the common sight amongst them. Even Finn, the Familia's captain, the famous ambitious pallum who dreamed of one day rising to the status both banished Familias had, held a somber look on his face. He wanted them to be seen as the strongest… But not like this.
The only thing in common between the two goddesses was their joy. Both looked satisfied as their former rivals stepped foot outside the gate.
"See ya old pervert, better luck next time!" Loki waved mockingly at them. "Maybe in another thousand years you can make it right!" Her children's faces grew more and more remorseful at each word she spoke. The trio paid her no heed, continuing on their path without any regards for those behind them as the gates closed.
As they headed down the stone path, a significant distance from the city proper, a wagon was stationed beside a tree. A woman could be seen waving at them from afar.
''Lady Hera, Lord Zeus, over here!'' Her scream echoed in the plain fields. Approaching the carriage they got a better look at the loud woman.
Blond hair that reached her neck, flowing locks and orange eyes. Her face was pretty and feminine, her frame looked thin and slim under the robes she wore. The similarities with her god, Hermes were uncanny.
''Everyone in the city was really out there to get you guys, weren't they? Smart move to take the pregnant woman through the back doors, and who are you? I´ve never seen a black haired elf before, much less one with different eye colors! Is that blood on you, are you hurt? Do you need help?'' Lydia kept rambling without taking a breath. Luke was taken back with her extroverted personality, while Hera´s eye twitched in annoyance. Zeus didn't seem to care as he spoke up.
''How´s Meteria holding up?'' Zeus brought her out of her incessant rambling, gaining her attention.
''She´s a bit shaken with everything, but apart from that she seems to be holding on pretty well!'' Lydia gestures to the back of the wagon.
'' Thank you for the help, but could you do one more thing for me?'' The god pulled out a letter from a pocket inside his white robe.
''Can you deliver this letter for me? Preferably in discretion, wouldn't want to draw unnecessary attention.'' He offered the letter to her.
''Where to you want me to take it, and to who?'' She tilted her head in confusion.
''The location and the recipient are on the back. If you can´t find them, ask around for the Glutton and Silence, you'll eventually get to them!'' The elf´s eyes widened at the information.
''Zald and Alfia are still alive?'' He inquired with a hopeful tone. Zeus and Hera nodded, turning towards the boy.
''Besides you and Meteria, they are the last of our Familias…'' Hera clarified with a somber voice. The corners of the kid´s lips tilted up. Maybe not everything was lost…
''Alright, I should get going. Good luck on your trip, wherever you may go!'' Lydia waved them goodbye and headed back towards Orario. Zeus shamelessly kept his gaze on her rear as she walked, getting smacked in the head by his spouse afterwards.
''Really!? Even now of all times!'' She chastised him as he rubbed the back of his head.
''I'm still a red blooded man, ain't I?'' Hera growled at him, ready to hit him again. Before she could do so, a small laugh got their attention. Turning towards the sound they saw the kid wiping some tears from his eyes..
''I´m glad to still have you two." His honest tone carried only gratitude and respect. Both deities looked at each other with a strange look. They crouched down and embraced the boy.
''We are also glad to have you, dear. We'll take good care of you and Meteria!'' The goddess said in a soothing motherly.
''Besides, if everything goes as planned, then i´m sure Alfia and Zald will come and live with us… Especially Alfia." Zeus remarked. Alfia sure as hell would stay with them, as long as her sister did.
He clutched them harder in the embrace, staining both gods' clothes with his shared this beautiful moment for a minute before they separated.
''We should get going already, we still have to find a place to settle!'' Hera commented, straightening herself up.
''I already got a perfect place for us to build our new home. It's far from Orario and but most importantly, from trouble!'' Zeus proclaimed, as they made their way inside the wagon. The god took the reins while the rest laid in the back.
Upon entering they were greeted by the sight of Meteria, the bulge in her belly evident as she sat.
''Lady Hera, Luke! I´m glad that you two made it out without much…'' She trailed off seeing the blood on the elf.
''W-What happened Luke? Are you wounded? Do you need-'' Meteria panic was stopped as the boy grabbed her hand.
''Calm down Lady Meteria, i´m fine… I just got hurt confronting Freya´s vice-captain when he manhandled Lady Hera, but my wounds have already been treated.'' He placed a hand to the side of his head to show the cut was already closed.
''You did what!? Why would you do something so reckless?'' She asked with a mix of anger and concern for him. When he looked at her, his eyes passed nothing but fierce determination.
''I´ll never let someone hurt those I love… No matter the consequences!'' The seriousness of his tone made both women's eyes widen, Zeus smirked in the front, overhearing the conversation. Really, this boy…
''Sigh… That's admirable, but you shouldn't just face a foe like that. What if he had killed you?'' Meteria scolded him. His gaze never wavered.
''Then i would have died doing the right thing!''
…
…
They couldn't really blame him for having this mindset. He had just lost almost everyone he loved and his life was turned upside down because of it…
Silence reigned between them, the sound the horses hooves and the wagon moving were the only sounds heard. While everyone was left to their thoughts, Luke looked through the opening in the back. Far in the distance, the tower of Babel could be seen in all its glory.
Guess this is the last time I will be seeing it…
He kept his eyes on the tower, only taking them away when it disappeared on the horizon.
AN: Thank you again for reading my first chapter! Pairings are not established yet, although the romances are gonna be a slow-burn and only concrete later in the story. You can get hints throughout the chapters. Any questions, critics, opinions, leave them in your reviews. Your feedback will be appreciated. Again follow and favorite if you liked the story; see ya!