Bell Of the Darkness
Orario:
Midnight enveloped the city in an inky shroud, the moonless night casting its shadow over the slumbering metropolis. The tranquil hush was broken only by the rustling of the wind, a ghostly whisper in the darkness, and the gentle patter of rain, each droplet a discreet percussion on the city's cobblestone streets. The cobblestones glistened, varnished with moisture, reflecting the soft glow from distant streetlights. A thin veil of mist clung to the ground, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
As the dark clouds conspired to deepen the night, the streets became monochrome, shrouded in obsidian. In this brooding stillness, a once-abandoned church loomed at the end of a cobblestone alley, its ivy-covered spires reaching for the heavens like skeletal fingers.
Approaching the church, two figures emerged from the nebulous shadows. Their silhouettes were enigmatic, yet their presence resonated with an air of purpose.
The taller figure, a man, moved with confident grace, his steps measured and deliberate. His silhouette revealed the contours of a heavy armor, his steps whispering as he walked across the street. His aura exuded authority and enigma, a man well-versed in the combat arts.
Beside him, a woman, her silhouette elegant and enigmatic, a stark contrast to the decayed church's desolation. Her long, flowing coat swayed with each step, a silent sigh of silk against the night. Her presence held an air of vulnerability, concealing a reservoir of strength.
They approached the church's entrance, its weathered wooden doors groaning with history and decay. The man extended a gloved hand, pushing the door open with a hesitant creak, revealing the moonlight-forsaken interior.
The church's cavernous expanse was swallowed by the darkness, shrouded in secrets, whispers of prayers long forgotten. Of once happy memories now crumbled to dust. The man and woman ventured forward, their breaths mingling with the musty scent of old pews and faded frescoes, a rich tapestry of melancholy.
In the silence, their eyes met, a silent communion that spoke volumes. Each subtle glance, a question and an answer, a dance of emotions played out in the dim light. It was a moment that held the promise of salvation and the weight of sacrifice, a delicate balance on the precipice of destiny.
As they ventured into the church, their footfalls echoed through the vaulted nave, reverberating like a solemn heartbeat. The night's symphony of rain and wind serenaded them, a haunting backdrop to their clandestine rendezvous. The air was heavy with anticipation, a palpable tension that bound them together.
Within the abandoned church, where secrets whispered in the shadows and the echoes of time reverberated, the man and woman stood together, their fates entwined in the obscurity of the night, poised to embark on a journey that would challenge their resolve and test the depths of their emotions.
Within the abandoned church, where secrets whispered in the shadows and the echoes of time reverberated, the man and woman stood together, their fates entwined in the obscurity of the night, poised to embark on a journey that would challenge their resolve and test the depths of their emotions.
Alfia's gaze swept across the dilapidated church; her voice tinged with a hint of melancholy. "Is this truly what's become of her favorite place?" Her words hung in the air, carrying a weight of memories long faded.
Zard, a formidable figure with dark brown hair and gray eyes, bore the scars of years of companionship etched into his face. His gruff voice carried concern as he addressed Alfia. "Are you sure you're okay with doing this, Alfia?" The man who had been her steadfast companion for the last eight years displayed a scar that traversed his face, a testament to the battles they'd endured together.
Alfia's response came with a somber resignation, her heterochronic eyes—green and gray—reflecting a complex spectrum of emotions, from sorrow to regret. "We can't go back anymore, Zard. This is the only way possible." Her words bore the weight of unspoken decisions and uncharted paths.
Clad in a dark, goth-like dress that cascaded down to her feet, Alfia's attire seemed to mirror the darkness that surrounded them. A necklace adorned with a shimmering green gemstone encircled her slender neck, a token of significance. Her hands, covered by dark, semi-transparent gloves, spoke of a hidden power she possessed. She was Level 7 of the Hera Familia, known as Silence Alfia, or simply, the Incarnation of Talent.
In contrast, Zard, the man who had stood by her side for years, sported a full-body black armor, accentuated by a dark red cape that billowed behind him. His determined gray eyes held an unwavering resolve, and he bore the title of Level 7 within the Zeus Familia, known as Zard Gluttony.
As they stood in the abandoned church, the air grew heavy with the unspoken weight of their mission, a palpable tension that surrounded them, binding them inextricably together. Their journey had begun, and the trials that lay ahead would push them to the limits of their strength and emotions, leaving no room for retreat or regret.
Tears welled up in Alfia's eyes, her voice quivering with the weight of her emotions. "I have nothing left anyway," she confessed, her vulnerability laid bare for Zard to see.
Zard, a stalwart companion, reached out to comfort her, his words a soothing balm for her wounded heart. "You still have me," he reassured, his voice gentle and warm, like a lifeline in the darkness.
Alfia, her gaze still clouded with sorrow, nodded slowly in acknowledgment. "Even with you, my friend, it cannot replace all that was lost," she admitted, her inner thoughts weighed down by the irreplaceable void in her heart. "Though I am grateful that you are still here."
Her voice trailed off, her unspoken yearnings hanging in the air like a whisper of regrets. "If only we could..." she began to utter, but the words caught in her throat, choked by the past's relentless grip. Her struggle to free herself from the grip of her memories etched across her face.
Alfia's impulse was to return Zard's embrace, to seek solace in his presence, but she pulled away, turning her back on him. Her actions spoke of the urgency of their mission, the weight of responsibility that overshadowed their personal emotions.
"Come on. We don't have much time," she urged, her resolve shoring up as she moved toward the church, her footsteps echoing in the cavernous space. Her voice was a directive, a reminder of their purpose in the face of the past that haunted her.
Zard, wanting to offer words of comfort, knew that sometimes silence spoke more eloquently than words. He watched her retreating figure, a silent promise to be the steadfast companion she needed in their journey into the unknown.
As they entered the forsaken church, the grim reality of its decay unveiled itself before them. Alfia's gaze wandered through the dilapidated interior, and a shiver ran down her spine. The roof had caved in, a skeletal web of timber and debris that had once been a protective canopy. The pews, once a testament to grandeur, lay shattered and reduced to nothing more than dust and splinters, the ghosts of worshipers long gone. Memories flooded Alfia's mind, for she had spent countless moments of solace within these hallowed walls. Even amidst the destruction, she couldn't help but yearn for the warmth that had once pervaded this sacred place, a sentiment echoed by her inner thoughts, "Is this really what happened to her favorite place? I don't even have this left…"
A voice, an unexpected presence within the ruins, punctuated the somber atmosphere. The man with black hair, adorned with two striking gray locks, and gray eyes, emerged from the shadows. His attire, a humble ensemble of brown traveling clothes and a blue scarf, seemed incongruous with the dilapidated surroundings.
"It is good to see you both again. But I have to ask if you are sure. Soon there will be no going back for any of us," he cautioned, his words heavy with the gravity of their undertaking.
Alfia's heart fluttered with uncertainty, and the weight of their mission bore down on her. She spoke, her voice barely more than a whisper, "I... I... I need to go for a walk." Her hushed words carried the strain of her emotions, and with a lingering gaze, she walked back out through the church's battered door, leaving Zard and the enigmatic man behind. Her footsteps were like echoes of her inner turmoil, a reminder of the uncertainty that lay ahead.
Erebus, the enigmatic God of Darkness, regarded Zald and Alfia with an inscrutable smile. His voice, though gentle, carried an air of secrecy as he addressed them. "That is fine. You two can leave if you want to, you know. After all, no one knows about us being Evilus, not even the other Gods. There is still time to change your mind."
Zald, however, wasn't content to accept Erebus's nonchalance. His gray eyes bored into the god, his voice laden with accusation. "You seem kind of half-hearted about this plan to destroy Orario and bring about new heroes. You've been trying to get us, two of the most dangerous and powerful people in this world, to leave, Erebus."
Erebus turned away, his silhouette fading into the shadows, but his voice lingered in the air, bearing the weight of a heavy truth. "That is true, but I have enough tricks up my sleeves, and it would be better if you two were to stay alive and find the happiness the two of you deserve. We still have a little over a year for the plan to begin."
Zald's thoughts were a turbulent sea of understanding as he processed Erebus's hidden intentions. 'If only it was that simple,' he pondered, realizing the complexities that lay beneath the surface of their mission. Their fate, as well as the fate of Orario, hung precariously in the balance, and the path ahead was riddled with uncertainty, challenges, and the shadowy schemes of the enigmatic god who had brought them into this intricate web of destiny.
Far away on Daedalus Street
The 13-year-old boy, his white hair glistening as it clashed against his vivid red eyes, strolled down the dimly lit street with an air of determination. The city's once-bustling streets were now hushed, save for a few sporadic figures moving through the night's shadows. Yet, the solitude of the night didn't perturb the young boy as he ventured towards his destination—the old, abandoned church that had held a special place in his mother's heart. It wasn't too far away.
As he walked, raindrops began to descend from the sky, their soft pitter-patter turning into a relentless shower. Soon, he was drenched, but the boy didn't flinch. The cool rain enveloped him, and he moved forward through the dark, glistening streets, his small frame a stark contrast to the gloomy surroundings.
In his tiny hand, he tightly held a delicate blue necklace, the pendant glinting faintly under the feeble illumination of a flickering lamppost. The jewel seemed to shimmer with a melancholic elegance, its color mirroring the stormy emotions swirling within the boy's soul.
His face was a portrait of profound sadness, a young visage marked by the weight of overwhelming grief. Tears welled up in his crimson eyes, threatening to overflow and merge with the heartache that had firmly gripped his young heart. Each step he took in the rain-soaked street was a journey through his pain, a pilgrimage to the old church that held answers and memories he couldn't forget.
"Mom, why?" the boy whispered, his voice a fragile tremor in the night. His words were a lament to the heavens, his young mind clouded by the incomprehensible loss he had endured. The fatigue of sleepless nights gnawed at him, and the incessant growling of his empty stomach served as a stark reminder of his hunger and desperation.
Only four days had passed since his sickly mother had drawn her last breath, leaving him alone in a world that felt alien and cruel. Despite her own frailty, she had endeavored to provide for him, her love, an unwavering beacon in the darkness. The memories of her kindness and warmth weighed heavily on his young soul, deepening his grief.
His mother had been ill all her life and she had only been able to make this long was because of one of the last parting gifts her Goddess gave her. The Goddess Hera had always loved Meteria as her own daughter. It was several branches of the elven holy tree that allowed her to push off her passing all these years. After Hera and Zeus were banished, there was no way to replenish the supply. His mom did her best to ration her supply only taking it when it was necessary.
When she was too weak to do it herself, he would make sure to cut the medicine as precisely as possible. But no matter how much they rationed it, there was still no replacement. The branch used to be able to restore her health for much longer, but it never stopped the progression of her disease. As time passed, she needed the medicine more and more frequently.
First it was every few years,
.
.
.
Then every year.
.
.
.
Then every six months
.
.
.
Every three months
.
.
.
Every month
.
.
.
Until finally, it was needed every week.
.
.
.
Two weeks had passed since his mother took the last of her medicine. Initially, it had granted her a brief reprieve, a flicker of improved health that had given the boy a glimmer of hope. But the flame of that hope had been cruelly extinguished, and her condition began to deteriorate once more. A week ago, the inevitable had struck with relentless cruelty, and her health took a nosedive, culminating in her passing five days ago.
The boy had fought valiantly to hold back the tears, to suppress the storm of emotions that raged within him, but it was a battle he couldn't win. His young heart was heavy with the weight of his mother's memory, a burden too profound for him to bear in silence. As the rain poured down upon him, drenching his already soaked clothes, his tears mingled with the raindrops, a fusion of sorrow that the heavens themselves seemed to weep for.
The boy continued to walk, paying no mind to the fact that he was wet and chilled. The rain was his silent companion, an echo of the tears he couldn't restrain. Even as she faced her own battle against the cruel grip of her illness, his mother had never wavered in her love and sacrifice for him. She had given her all, even at the expense of her own well-being, ensuring he had enough to eat, that he was cared for, and that his world remained intact.
The atmosphere dark and foreboding was heavy with melancholy as if in reflection of the sorrow that clung to the boy as he walked through the rain-soaked streets. The world seemed to mirror his pain, enveloping him in its own shroud of desolation, each raindrop serving as a poignant reminder of the tears he couldn't hold back. The silence of the street became a haunting backdrop, amplifying his unspoken questions and the grief that had etched itself into the depths of his being.
The boom of thunder, crack of lightning, and splash of a raindrop mirrored the boy's emotions, each one a step deeper into the well of his sorrow and uncertainty. It painted a sky itself paint a scene of his journey, his struggle to navigate the harsh reality of his mother's absence, and the emotional storm that raged within him.
Switch to Alfia
On the other side of the street, Alfia moved with a purposeful stride, determined to quell the persistent thoughts that had haunted her since her harrowing encounter with the dragon. The memories of that day, the loss of her sister, the heavy burden she now carried, threatened to unravel her composure.
'Keep it together, Alfia,' she admonished herself inwardly, her thoughts a stark reminder of her duty. 'Your sister is gone. There is nothing left for you in this life. You have to be the steppingstone for others. So, give your life so others can have one.'
Amidst the turmoil in her mind, the cries of a child pierced the silence of the street. Alfia's gaze shifted towards the source, revealing a boy with striking white hair and crimson eyes, a sight she found somewhat unsettling.
"An orphan," she surmised, her voice laced with a touch of irritation. "He must've lost his parents not long ago. Why can't he mourn more quietly?"
As they approached each other and halted, Alfia's eyes cast a scrutinizing gaze upon the boy, her annoyance still simmering beneath the surface. She bent down to address him, her words stern and unsympathetic.
"Crying doesn't do a thing, kid," she scolded, her eyes locked on him, although he refused to meet her gaze. Her dismissive tone seemed to mirror the detachment she had cultivated as a means of self-preservation. "You better move on."
The street bore witness to the cold exchange, the air thick with tension as Alfia confronted the boy who had disrupted her path. The atmosphere was heavy with unspoken emotions, and the rhythmic flow of their encounter reflected the harshness of the world they inhabited.
Tears welled up in the young boy's eyes, his voice breaking as he struggled to express his sorrow. "Mom is the only one I had," he choked out, his words punctuated by sobs that wracked his fragile frame. "She told me to be strong, and I'm trying to be," he added, his voice quivering with the effort to hold back the flood of tears.
Alfia, who had been watching him with a growing mixture of sadness and empathy, couldn't help but be struck by the boy's vulnerability. 'He's like me and... her, but he doesn't have anyone,' she mused, her heart heavy with memories of her own past, and the comforting presence she once had by her side.
As the boy's sobs continued, Alfia's emotions took a sudden turn, and her thoughts darkened with anger and regret. 'Damn kid, he reminds me of my past,' she fumed, the weight of her past grievances pressing down on her. The boy's presence had unwittingly stirred up emotions that she had long buried.
But then, amidst the tumult of her thoughts and emotions, she heard a faint voice calling her. "Mom." It was the boy, and Alfia's gaze snapped down to meet his eyes for the first time. Their eyes locked, a silent understanding passing between them, and in that fleeting moment, their shared grief connected them in a way neither of them had expected.
The boy's tear-stained face bore a striking resemblance to a younger version of Alfia, a reflection of her own past. He stood before her, choking on sobs, trying to speak through the torrents of grief that wracked his small frame.
"Sorry," he began, his voice broken and heavy with sorrow, "miss you… you just look," he continued, his words interrupted by heart-wrenching sobs, "a lot like my mother."
Tears flowed unabated from the boy's eyes, his smile appearing forced, a facade he clung to as he walked past the astonished Alfia. His emotional outpouring struck a chord deep within her, and her heart ached for the pain he carried.
But Alfia, haunted by her own history, was quick to quash any hope that stirred within her. 'No, don't even dare hope,' she admonished herself, her inner thoughts a desperate plea. 'Don't ever think… She died a long time ago... It's just a coincidence... It's just another sick torture from the Gods...'
The atmosphere hung heavy with emotions, as Alfia grappled with the unexpected encounter and the turmoil it had unleashed within her. The rhythmic flow of her internal struggle mirrored the overwhelming depth of her feelings, and she was determined to protect herself from the heartache of false hope.
Thud
A sudden, jarring sound echoed through the stillness, pulling Alfia's attention away from her inner turmoil. She turned her head sharply, her gaze landing on the fallen boy who lay sprawled on the ground, a picture of frailty and vulnerability.
Without a second thought, Alfia's instincts kicked in, and she rushed to the boy's side. Her keen eyes swept over his body, each observation painting a grim picture of his suffering. His emaciated frame told a story of days without sustenance, his once-clear eyes now a bloodshot red from ceaseless weeping, and deep circles marred the delicate skin beneath his eyes, a testament to the cruel grip of sleeplessness. His dry, chapped lips only added to the pitiable sight.
As Alfia's eyes continued their careful assessment of the boy's small, trembling form, they fell upon a sight that sent shockwaves through her heart—a delicate blue necklace, just like the one she clutched in her hand, mirrored her own treasured possession with an uncanny resemblance. Her sharp intake of breath cut through the pattering rain, her eyes widening with disbelief.
"This… is… her… necklace?" Alfia's thoughts raced, her mind struggling to process the implications of the boy's possession. Her heart pounded against her chest as the pendant of her own necklace, with its captivating green gemstone, found its way into her trembling hand. Her tears mingled with the rain as she gazed at the precious pendant, and in that moment, her emotions were a kaleidoscope of happiness, confusion, and sorrow.
It was a stark contrast to the memories of her past—the horrific sight of the Black Dragon laying waste to her Familia, or the heart-wrenching knowledge of her twin sister's fate had succumbed to illness. This time, the tears that welled in her eyes were a testament to the unexpected bond they shared, one born from the depths of shared pain and compassion.
The atmosphere shifted around them as the boy and Alfia knelt upon the wet ground. There, beneath the weeping sky, a silent understanding unfurled, transcending words and forging a profound connection. Alfia's reaction was a testament to her wellspring of empathy and understanding, a powerful testament to the bond that had formed between two kindred souls amidst the trials of life. The rain's gentle embrace bore witness to their shared moment, a poignant scene that would etch itself into their memories for years to come.
"You really are Meteria's son. How? Why?" Alfia finally spoke the name of her twin sister, a name that had been forbidden in her thoughts for seven long years. Her voice trembled with a mix of astonishment and disbelief as she looked at the boy before her.
In a surge of overwhelming emotion, Alfia embraced the boy tightly, tears streaming down her cheeks, her usually stoic expression replaced by an uncharacteristic smile. The connection she had found in this boy, her sister's son, was a revelation that had shaken her to her core.
With the boy held in her arms, Alfia made a hasty exit, dashing back to the house she shared with Zald and Erebus. Her steps were quick and determined, the tears in her eyes glinting in the moonlight as she ran.
As she burst through the door with a force that nearly tore it off its hinges, both Erebus and Zald leaped to their feet, their astonishment evident in their expressions. The woman who was known for her aversion to noise had taken them by surprise with her uncharacteristic haste. The two men couldn't help but feel their curiosity surge as they trailed behind Alfia, their eyes fixed on the boy she cradled gently in her arms.
As Zald watched the boy with a puzzled expression, his concern was evident in his voice. "Alfia, what's wrong?" he asked, his brow furrowing as he tried to make sense of the situation.
Erebus, too, found himself intrigued by the presence of the boy. His inquiry was laced with a strange sense of recognition, as if the child stirred some distant memory. "Who is the boy?" he demanded, his voice tinged with intrigue.
Alfia, her eyes soft and compassionate, lowered the boy onto her bed with great care. Her tone was soothing, as she explained, "I found him outside the old church."
The room seemed to hold its breath as her words hung in the air, the atmosphere heavy with unspoken emotions. Zald, never one to miss an opportunity for a playful jab, couldn't resist teasing. "So you have a soft spot for kids after all."
Zald, still in shock and struggling to process the boy's sudden appearance, couldn't help but fixate on the vivid blue necklace that adorned the child's neck. The delicate gemstone gleamed, and his thoughts connected the dots in a profound realization.
"He's Meteria's son, isn't he? This boy is your nephew," he mused, the words forming in his mind as the pieces of the puzzle fell into place. The room was filled with the weight of his realization, the gravity of the boy's identity settling upon him.
Alfia turned her gaze towards the two men, her eyes brimming with tears, and a smile that spoke volumes of a love long kept hidden. Her heart ached with emotions she'd buried deep within, and now, they resurfaced with a strength that couldn't be denied.
"Yes," Alfia replied, her voice quivering with a mix of sadness and affection. "He's Meteria's son, my sister's child. I can't bear to let him go."
The room fell silent, the atmosphere heavy with the significance of this unexpected connection. Both Zald and Erebus, who were aware of the pain that the mere mention of Alfia's twin sister could cause, were taken aback by her actions. This moment was a revelation, an emotional bridge built on the unlikeliest of circumstances.
As the rain continued to pour outside, Alfia took Bell inside the room, her heart full of compassion. She gently guided him to one of the spare beds, his wet clothes clinging to his fragile frame. With a tenderness born of empathy, she began to help him out of his soaked garments, her movements deliberate and careful.
Rainwater dripped from his hair as he stood there, a fragile figure against the backdrop of the stormy night. Alfia's actions spoke of a deep understanding, a shared pain that transcended words. She was determined to provide comfort and warmth to the young boy who had wandered alone in the rain.
Once he was disrobed, Alfia gently tucked him into the bed, pulling the covers up to his chin. The room was warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the cold and wet night outside. With great care, she ensured he was comfortable, her hands a comforting presence in the dimly lit room.
Alfia gazed at Bell's peaceful slumber, the rhythmic rise and fall of his chest a comforting sight. His innocence, a stark contrast to the tumultuous world beyond their sanctuary.
"Zald, I need to cook something for when Bell wakes up. Stay here, won't you?" Alfia's voice was soft, her eyes warm as she addressed her companions. The room's dim light cast a soft glow on her, enhancing the serenity of the moment.
Zald and Erebus exchanged a quizzical glance. Her smile had caught them off guard, as it had been years since they had seen her radiant like this. It was a beacon of hope, a reminder of the person she used to be.
Zald's curiosity got the better of him, and he voiced the question that hung in the air, "Why?"
Alfia's smile didn't waver. Instead, her gaze turned serious, the warmth replaced by a determined resolve. "To make sure no one tries to kidnap the boy while I make dinner for him."
Zald's brow furrowed. The thought seemed absurd. "Alfia, no one is going to try to kidnap the kid..."
Alfia's gaze bore into Zald's, a fiery intensity in her eyes, daring him to defy her wishes. Her silent warning spoke volumes, promising dire consequences for anyone who dared to go against her in this moment. The atmosphere in the room shifted, from one of serene calm to a sense of impending danger that lingered in the air.
"Fine. Fine. I will watch the kid. I have no problem with that," Zald relented, his exasperation evident in his voice. Internally, he couldn't help but roll his eyes, thinking, "Good grief. She's gone full mama-bear already." A hint of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips, a mixture of amusement and affection for Alfia's newfound protectiveness.
Erebus chimed in, sensing the shifting dynamics within their little family. "Well, then, it's not every day that someone comes into our little family, you know. So I take it the plan is off, then?"
Alfia hesitated, torn between her instincts and the potential for trust. "Not yet. Not yet. I have to be sure," she replied, her voice a whisper of uncertainty. Her fingers moved deftly as she rushed to prepare a meal for the boy she had just met, the atmosphere in the room thick with the weight of her unease and determination.
Alfia's inner thoughts and feelings were a maelstrom of emotions, a mix of love and concern for Bell, but also a deep-seated fear that had haunted her for years. Her past experiences had left scars that ran deep, and she couldn't let history repeat itself.
With a determined nod, Zald finally relented, his voice softer as he said, "Alright, Alfia. We'll stay here, just to be sure."
As Alfia turned her attention back to Bell, a mixture of gratitude and relief washed over her.
Zald and Erebus exchanged a meaningful glance, a silent understanding passing between them as they both turned their attention to Alfia. Her determination and protectiveness were admirable, but it was evident to both of them that she had crossed a line, even if she hadn't realized it herself.
"Alfia is out, even if she doesn't know it yet," Both men thought to themselves.
The next morning:
The white-haired boy stirred, his eyelids slowly parting as he rose from slumber. As he woke, an unusual sense of well-being washed over him, a stark contrast to the gnawing hunger that had plagued him for days. He blinked in the soft light of the room, taking in his unfamiliar surroundings.
'Where am I?' He thought as he was stirring from the bed.
He tried to remember how he ended up here, but he was drawing a blank. Then he noticed that his right hand was being held by some warm hand.
His gaze dropped to his right hand, and there, his fingers were encased in a warm, comforting grip. Turning his head in that direction, he found himself face to face with a silver-haired woman whose features struck a chord of recognition deep within him.
"Good, you're awake. My name is Alfia. What's yours? "Alfia said, looking at him.
'Oh, that's right, the woman that reminds me of mom." As he said that it made him remember his mother taking her last breath and what she said to him.
"Mom," he whispered, his voice a fragile tremor, as the memories of his mother's final moments rushed back to him. He recalled her words, the gentle reassurance she had offered him in her last breath, and the warmth of her presence that had been abruptly extinguished.
The room itself was bathed in a soft, soothing light, creating an atmosphere of tranquility that contrasted with the boy's recent hardship. His awakening, coupled with the presence of the silver-haired woman, added an unexpected layer of complexity to the scene.
Flashback Starts:
Meteria's gentle touch cradled her son's wet cheek, her fingers cool against his flushed skin. Her presence exuded a soothing warmth, and her voice, a melody of maternal tenderness, was as soft as the caress of a summer breeze. "Bell, please don't cry," she implored, her words carrying a weight of love that could melt the hardest of hearts.
The young boy's tears flowed freely, his sobs wracking his fragile frame. "Mom, don't leave me. Please, don't leave me," he begged, his voice choked with grief as he clung to his mother, who wore a profound sadness upon her face.
"I'm sorry, sweetie," Meteria murmured, her voice quivering with the pain of impending separation. Her eyes, pools of love and sorrow, met her 13-year-old son's. "But it looks like there's not much time left for me. I will always love you and will be watching over you." Her fingers brushed away the tear tracks on his cheeks, and she held his trembling hands. "Now, take care of yourself. Promise me you will stay strong and never give up."
Tears flowed unabated from the young boy's eyes, but he made a valiant effort to choke back the sobs that threatened to overwhelm him. He longed to plead with his mother not to leave him, but the words remained lodged in his throat, unspoken. Despite his youth, Bell possessed understood his mother's condition, and the inevitable separation that loomed before them, an understanding that filled him with a profound sense of helplessness.
In response to his mother's plea, Bell managed a brave smile, a faint glimmer of resilience in his teary eyes. His mother, perceptive as ever, saw through the facade, her maternal intuition recognizing the strength he was trying to summon despite the deep well of sorrow within him.
"Okay. I'll be strong. I will keep my promise," the 13-year-old whispered, his voice quivering as tears continued to flow. His mother smiled back at him, her eyes filled with understanding, knowing that her son was putting on a brave front for her sake.
"That's a good boy. You're the greatest gift I could ever ask for," she said, her voice tender and filled with love. She held out a delicate blue necklace, a fragile token of their bond, her fingers trembling as she passed it to him. "Now, I want you to take care of this necklace, okay? Your aunt has one just like it, except hers is green and a little bigger."
Meteria's frail form trembled, her body wracked by the violent coughing fit that had become a horrifying routine in her life. Her emaciated chest convulsed, struggling to draw in air, while her lungs labored as if each breath was a battle. The sounds of her desperate coughs filled the room, echoing the torment of her deteriorating health.
With eyes brimming with tears, Bell watched, his heart heavy and aching, as his beloved mother gasped for breath. Her face contorted with agony, and her fragile body contorted in pain. Each cough seemed like an excruciating echo of her suffering, a relentless reminder of the cruel grip that had consumed her for far too long.
He longed to reach out and comfort her, to take away her pain, but the helplessness gnawed at him. There was nothing he could do to ease her torment, and the realization weighed on him, causing a deep well of anguish to pool in his chest.
"MOM!" The 13-year-old Bell was panicking as he watched his mother's health take a turn for the worst.
"Please, my little Bell. You're the strongest person I know. You are also a brave child and I'm so proud to have a wonderful son like you." She smiles as she caresses his cheek as tears were flowing down her face before she continues:
"Mom…" Bell whimpers
"Bell, I don't think I will last much longer," Meteria whispered, her voice tremulous and filled with a weight that Bell could hardly bear.
His mother's words hung in the air, and Bell's heart constricted as he absorbed the gravity of her condition. He watched her, his gaze unwavering, as she continued to speak, her eyes filled with a melancholic serenity.
"Bell, my sister Alfia is here in Orario," Meteria revealed, her words tinged with a bittersweet smile. "I know she will try to use her last breath to help this world. You remember what kind of person I told you she is."
Bell nodded, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. He remembered the stories his mother had told him about his aunt, how she loved them above all else, and how she was willing to become a villain if it meant protecting them and making Orario stronger.
"Yes. Mom. You told me she was a very nice and kind-hearted person that always cared about her friends and family. She's the person who will protect her friends and family, no matter the cost, even if she had to go against the entire world, she would still do it for them." Bell remembers what his mom said about his aunt loving them and wanting to protect them above all else. Even if it means she must become a villain, his aunt will serve as a steppingstone in order to make Orario stronger.
"Good, Bell, you are a smart and brave boy. I can never ask for a better child." Meteria whispers into his ear softly
The atmosphere in the room was heavy with emotion, and the air seemed to vibrate with the weight of their shared understanding. The rhythmic flow of their conversation mirrored the deep bond between mother and son, as they faced the inevitable with a sense of resignation and determination to protect the world they cherished.
"Mom, please don't die. Don't leave me alone." Bell couldn't help but cry and beg his mother.
"I'm so sorry, Bell. I wish I could be there with you." Meteria's voice was weak, but her words carried the weight of a profound truth. She looked at her son with a mixture of love and urgency in her eyes. "Find her and convince her to stop what she's doing. It won't work. Nobody can even hope to reach the strength of Hera Familia and Zeus Familia." Her voice grew sadder with each word, as she described the futility of her sister's mission. "Freya Familia doesn't care about anything except that whore's whims and getting her love. Loki Familia only wants to be the best for themselves, and they will backstab anyone who gets in their way. The Braver, doesn't deserve his name. He's a leader who will do anything to get famous. And while the Astraea Familia may represent justice, they are young and naive. Their dreams may be kind. But the world is not, and it will snuff out their light soon enough. Remember Bell the brighter the light, the more people want to snuff it out and those girls shine so brightly. You can only trust yourself. I love you sweetie." Meteria is barely able to finish before another coughing fit wracks her body.
Meteria lay in her frail state, her breaths shallow and labored. The dimly lit room felt heavy with the impending loss that hung in the air, casting long shadows across the walls. Bell, her beloved son, sat by her side, his face contorted with anguish. Bell's heart ached with the truth of his mother's words, a cold, harsh reality that he was not prepared to face. His gaze never left her face as she spoke, his eyes reflecting the love he felt for her.
"I'm sorry, Mom," Bell choked out, his voice thick with sorrow. His eyes welled up with tears, and they streamed down his face like a river of heartache.
Meteria managed a weak, reassuring smile, her feeble hand trembling as she reached out to touch his cheek. "No, it's not your fault, Bell. It was fate, there's nothing we can do." Her words were barely more than a whisper, a fragile sigh escaping her parched lips.
Tears continued to roll down Bell's cheeks as he whispered, "I'm so sorry, Mom. I love you, Mommy. You are the best mom anyone can ever ask for." His words quivered with raw emotion, his chest heaving with each breath.
Meteria's eyes, once vibrant and full of life, gazed at her son with an immeasurable love. "Bell, my time is almost up," she said, her voice a mere murmur. "Please, stay safe."
Bell nodded, his voice trembling. "Okay, Mom. I will try to make you proud."
A tearful smile graced Meteria's lips as she reached for Bell's hand, her fingers frail and cool to the touch. "I know, sweetie. I know you will."
The room seemed to close in around them, the atmosphere heavy with the weight of impending loss. Meteria's strength continued to wane, her breathing growing even more shallow.
"I love you, Mom," Bell whispered, his voice a gentle plea, his heart heavy with the knowledge of what was to come. "I will keep my promise."
'I know you will, Bell.' She thought as she closed her eyes and let death claim her. As her words trailed off, Meteria's hand fell from Bell's cheek, and he saw a serene smile on her face, her eyes closed, as if she had finally found peace. Tears welled up in Bell's eyes as he took her hand in his, feeling the cold, unyielding stillness that had replaced the warmth and life that once resided within her. The room seemed to close in around him.
"I promise, I will be strong, Mom. Stronger than anyone has ever been. I will do what you ask," Bell vowed, his voice quivering with a mixture of determination and sorrow. His eyes were brimming with tears, and his heart ached with the weight of his mother's request. The promise he made was not just to her, but to himself, a testament to his unwavering love and resolve. "but first…."
But as the reality of her passing sank in, Bell's emotional defenses crumbled, and he broke down into uncontrollable sobs. His body shook with the force of his grief, and he collapsed to the floor, the weight of his loss pressing down on him like a suffocating blanket.
He clutched his chest, his sobs wracking his entire body, as the pent-up emotions of the past few days poured out. The memories of his mother, her love, her laughter, and the warmth of her embrace, all flooded his mind. It was as if a dam had burst, and the flood of sorrow threatened to drown him.
He wanted to hold onto the pain, as if it were a connection to his mother. He could still feel her presence in the room, the faint scent of her perfume, the sound of her voice, and the touch of her hand. The realization that he would never experience these things again was like a dagger in his heart.
Time seemed to stretch on endlessly as Bell mourned his mother's passing. Each memory was a fresh wave of grief, each sob a testament to the love he had lost. The room was shrouded in a heavy, oppressive atmosphere, thick with the rawness of his emotions.
The flow time seeming to ebb and flow of his grief, the deep well of sorrow that threatened to consume him. The world outside continued to turn, indifferent to his pain, as Bell navigated the complex terrain of mourning, where moments of quiet reflection gave way to overwhelming waves of sadness.
Amidst his anguish, a distant knock on the door pierced through the haze of his despair, bringing an abrupt interruption to his mourning….
Flashback End
Bell's smile, though tinged with sadness, reflected the warmth he felt upon seeing his aunt for the first time. His emotions were a complex interplay of grief and joy, the past and the present converging in this poignant moment.
Alfia slowly opened her eyes, her gaze meeting Bell's as she tried to make sense of the unusual warmth that enveloped her. His smile, genuine and innocent, seemed to penetrate the walls she had built around herself, touching a place within her that had remained hidden for too long.
"Why are you smiling like that?" Alfia's curiosity got the better of her as she questioned the boy's behavior. His smile was a stark contrast to the sorrow that had consumed her for years.
"Because I'm happy to meet you, Auntie Alfia," Bell replied, his voice filled with a sense of longing and genuine affection. The words had a profound impact on Alfia, a reminder of the love she had once known and thought she had lost forever.
Tears welled up in Alfia's eyes as she was unable to contain the flood of emotions that threatened to engulf her. Without hesitation, she pulled Bell into a tight embrace, her arms wrapping around him with a desperate need to hold onto the connection they once had.
Bell's response was immediate, as he returned the embrace, tears streaming down his face. They held onto each other for what felt like an eternity, the weight of their shared grief and the flicker of hope intertwining in their hearts.
The atmosphere in the room was charged with the intensity of their emotions, a blend of sorrow, longing, and the tentative beginnings of healing. The rhythmic flow of the scene mirrored the ebb and flow of their emotions, as they clung to each other, seeking solace in the presence of family long lost. They stayed like that for 5 minutes.
Tears welled in Alfia's eyes, shimmering like dewdrops in the soft light of the room. She blinked them away, her voice trembling with a mix of emotions. "Sorry, I was just excited to meet you," she said, her words a fragile admission of her feelings.
Bell's heart swelled with affection, and he replied with a warm, genuine smile. "I'm happy to see you."
The room seemed to tighten with the weight of their emotions, the air filled with a bittersweet longing for moments that were now memories. Alfia brushed away her tears, her gaze now more composed. She needed to know the answers that had been haunting her.
"Okay, Bell. That's enough," Alfia said, her voice now steadier. "Tell me, how did you get here? Where's Meteria?" The tears still lingered in her eyes, a testament to the anguish that had gripped her.
Bell's expression shifted, his features etched with sorrow as he struggled to control his own emotions. He swallowed hard, a lump in his throat, before he spoke. "Mom died from her illness five days ago. Then I went looking for you, starting four days ago."
The room seemed to grow colder, the heavy atmosphere now compounded by the news of Meteria's passing. The rhythmic flow of their conversation had shifted from excitement to grief, a current of sorrow running through their words. As they grappled with the harsh reality of loss and separation, the room felt like a sanctuary for their shared pain and memories, a place where time had stopped to acknowledge the depth of their emotions.
Alfia's heart weighed heavy with sorrow and frustration. Her sister was gone, and the cruel hand of fate had deprived her of the chance to say her goodbyes. Tears welled in her eyes, like raindrops falling from a stormy sky, each one a testament to her grief.
"Bell, I'm sorry," Alfia whispered, her voice quivering with the raw emotions that churned within her. "I'm so sorry. I wasn't there for you when she passed. But what do you mean by looking for me?" Her eyes bore into Bell, seeking answers and a connection in the midst of their shared loss.
Bell's eyes, filled with a mixture of sorrow and determination, met Alfia's gaze. He had braved the pain of losing his mother, and now he had a story to tell. But before he could share it, he had one more request.
"First, Auntie," Bell began quietly, his voice tinged with a sense of purpose, "Can I talk to the two men standing outside the door?" His gaze flickered to Erebus and Zald, who stood guard beyond the room's threshold. Their expressions were a blend of vigilance and intrigue, the subtle exchange of glances revealing their curiosity. Bell's keen perception did not go unnoticed, and it hinted at a depth of understanding that defied his youthful appearance.
"What a sharp boy you are," Erebus remarked with a hint of amusement. He extended an introduction, breaking the ice that had formed around them. "Hello, my name is Erebus. This is Zald."
Bell's gaze shifted between the two men for a moment, his eyes filled with a mixture of recognition and curiosity. The words he spoke carried a sense of familiarity with the world they inhabited, and it was evident that his mother had prepared him well.
"You're Zald Gluttony of the Zeus Familia. Mom told me about you," Bell acknowledged with a nod, his tone respectful and poised for someone of his age. He then turned his attention to Erebus, who held an air of enigmatic authority. "And you are the God of Darkness Erebus. My name is Bell Cranel."
Erebus and Zald exchanged a glance once more, taken aback by the young boy's knowledge. The revelation was unexpected, and it carried implications they needed to address.
"You know what we were planning on doing, right?" Erebus inquired, his voice laced with caution, mindful of the secrets they held and the potential consequences of their actions. The room crackled with tension, the conversation poised at a precipice.
The room hummed with a charged atmosphere as Bell calmly addressed the elephant in the room. His young voice carried a weight of understanding that transcended his age, and his composure hinted at the depth of knowledge imparted by his mother.
"About the three of you being fake members of Evilus and your self-sacrifice plot. If that's the case, then yes," Bell's words were delivered with a disarming candor.
His gaze moved from Erebus to Zald, his eyes reflecting a mix of comprehension and acceptance. "Mom figured out what you were about to do, and mom told me how devoted Auntie was. She said that you would act as a steppingstone for future heroes to take up the banner. That you would draw out as much of Evilus as possible to let Orario move forward."
Erebus, with his enigmatic smile, couldn't help but burst into laughter at the absurdity of the situation. His amusement, though tinged with irony, was a response to the unexpected unveiling of their intentions.
"Tsk, Tsk. Ha Ha Ha Ha. This is insane. Our plan was exposed even before we started it. Ha Ha Ha," Erebus chuckled, his mirth echoing through the room.
Bell, in a moment of normalcy, raised his hand and spoke, his tone now that of a child his age. "Can I eat something? I'm hungry."
The two humans exchanged a glance, their shoulders relaxing slightly. It was a brief respite in the midst of a turbulent revelation. Bell's request was a return to the ordinary, a reminder that, despite the gravity of their situation, he was still just a child with needs and desires.
Half Hour Later
Amidst the dimly lit room, the four of them gathered around a makeshift dining table, their shared meal becoming the backdrop for an unexpected exchange of truths.
Bell, though still a child, found himself sitting on Alfia's lap due to the shortage of chairs. It was an arrangement that didn't escape her notice, and her reaction was swift and sharp.
"Are you insane, Bell?" Her voice, uncharacteristically loud and laced with anger, cut through the air, her frustration palpable.
Bell, undeterred by her outburst, met her gaze with a serene smile, one that suggested he harbored no fear of the powerful female who could reduce the city to rubble with a flick of her hand.
"Probably?" Bell's response, delivered with a hint of mischief, hinted at the audacity hidden beneath his youthful exterior. It was a bold assertion, as if he was daring the world to challenge him.
"Kid, I like you already," Zald declared, a broad grin on his scarred face. His reaction, in stark contrast to Alfia's glare, was a testament to his appreciation for Bell's audacious spirit. Erebus couldn't help but chuckle, appreciating the unexpected bravery of Bell to talk back to Alfia.
Alfia's heterochronic eyes shone with warmth as she gazed at Bell, the dimly lit room around them casting a soft, ethereal glow on her delicate features. "I'm glad to have you here with us, Bell," she said, her voice gentle as a whispering breeze. Her lips curved into a tender smile, a mixture of affection and concern dancing in her eyes.
Bell, his youthful face marked with determination, returned the smile, a glimmer of gratitude reflecting in his eyes. "I'm glad to be with you too, auntie," he replied, his voice carrying the weight of a shared history and unwavering trust.
Erebus, seated across from them, leaned forward, his piercing gaze fixed on Bell. "Okay, now it's my turn," he said, his voice holding a trace of curiosity and suspicion. "What did you mean when you said your mom knew about our plan?"
Bell's brow furrowed, and he drew in a slow breath, the room's tense atmosphere amplifying his unease. "Lady Hera told Mom that Auntie Alfia was still alive after the fight with the black dragon. Mom said she knew Auntie's personality and that she would eventually return to Orario if the other familias couldn't stop Elivus. She said that Auntie would act as bait to lure out all the members of Evilus. She told me what she suspected about the plan. Mom said that Auntie would act as a member of Evilus," Bell continued, "to give them the confidence to launch an all-out attack on Orario. This would act to lure out most of Evilus and other dangerous people to the city."
Erebus and Zald exchanged astonished glances, their eyes locked in shared disbelief. They had not expected Bell's mother to realize the intricacies of their plan, nor did they anticipate that she would know EVERYTHING they intended.
Bell swallowed hard, his emotions laid bare, a mixture of fear and determination playing across his features. "While your real goal was that the three of you will act as the sacrificial pawns to draw out the enemies of Orario and make the city stronger."
"Mom said Auntie would do it for the greater good. Auntie would become a stepping stone for future heroes," Bell replied, his voice laced with a mixture of reverence and resignation. The words hung heavy in the air, a testament to the depth of their commitment.
Erebus, his features darkened by the weight of their revelation, let out a humorless chuckle, the sound devoid of mirth. "She really did know us well," he said, his laughter tinged with a touch of bitterness, an acknowledgment of the inevitable.
Amid the tension in the room, Zald, the strategist of their group, leaned forward, his brow furrowed in thought. "Okay, what are we going to do?" he asked, his voice a mirror to the solemnity that enveloped them. "Do we continue with the original plan minus Alfia?"
Bell's gaze shifted from Zald to Alfia, who held him protectively, their connection unspoken but profound. He sighed, his inner turmoil mirrored in the furrow of his brow. "You guys should come up with another plan," he finally said, his words carrying the weight of responsibility. "Mom wanted me to convince Auntie to leave because she didn't believe that anyone could surpass Zeus and Hera."
The room fell into an oppressive silence, the weight of their unspoken thoughts settling over the three adults like a thick fog. They had no counterargument, no rebuttal to the stark reality that had unfolded before them. The current state of the city, its political landscape marred by the dominance of Loki and Freya's factions, had left them disheartened and powerless.
Their shared discontent with the city's strongest remnants hung in the air like a bitter aftertaste, a cocktail of frustration, anger, and resentment. The emotional depth of their disillusionment ran deep, each of them struggling to come to terms with the stark turn of events that had brought Orario to its knees.
Bell's gaze fixed on Erebus, the intensity of the moment causing the god to straighten his posture. He as he watched Bel prepare to speak. The room was awash with a sense of purpose, the shadows dancing on the walls, emphasizing the gravity of the moment. Bell, his eyes filled with an unshakable determination, had the undivided attention of his companions. His voice cut through the silence like a clarion call, ringing with unwavering resolve.
"That is why I will do it," he declared, his words echoing with raw passion. His youthful face was etched with purpose, a fierce fire burning within. "I will find a worthy God and rise myself up to be strong enough to complete the Last Great Quest. I will restore the hope that was lost, and I won't let the light that she liked be snuffed out like she feared. I WILL FULFILL MY MOM's WISH, and I won't let anyone stand in my way. I will be the Last Hero."
Bell's proclamation hung in the air like a sacred vow, his inner thoughts and feelings laid bare, his heart's determination shining through. The emotional depth of his commitment resonated in the room, each word he spoke a testament to the love he held for his mother and the legacy he intended to uphold.
Throughout his declaration, Bell's unwavering gaze remained locked with Erebus's. Erebus, as with all dieties, could feel the unyielding resolve in Bell's eyes, recognizing that this was a moment of reckoning, and Bell's will was absolute.
With a calm and measured tone, Erebus responded, "Bell, if you consider me worthy. I invite you into my Familia." His suggestion cut through the air like a revelation, sending shockwaves through the room. Alfia and Zard exchanged wide-eyed glances, their surprise palpable in the charged atmosphere.
Erebus's proposal was a seismic shift, a proposition that held the potential to reshape their destinies. The rhythmic flow of the conversation had evolved from Bell's impassioned declaration to Erebus's unexpected offer, leaving the room filled with anticipation, uncertainty, and the promise of a future yet to be written.
Bell's eyes sparkled with excitement as he leaned forward, his voice carrying a youthful enthusiasm. "Really?" he asked, his words tinged with anticipation, as if a world of possibilities had just opened before him.
Erebus met Bell's eager gaze, his own eyes crinkling with a hint of a smile. "Yes, what do you think?" he inquired, his voice an invitation to a brighter future.
"I agree, it would be great," Bell responded, his enthusiasm palpable, as if his dreams were within reach, and a wave of elation washed over him.
"Well, it looks like it's settled," Zald chuckled, his amusement bubbling to the surface as he observed the turn of events. "Welcome to the family, Bell."
Amid the celebratory atmosphere, Alfia remained silent, her emotions a tumultuous sea of conflict. She observed the unfolding exchange with a mixture of pride and concern, the inner thoughts and feelings that swirled within her a well-guarded secret.
"Bell," she finally spoke, her voice carrying a blend of admiration and caution, "I have to say, you really are special. No ordinary kid would be able to declare something like that so boldly before a God."
Bell's voice, tinged with gratitude, drifted through the room as he replied to his aunt, "Thanks, auntie." His gaze met hers, an unspoken bond connecting them.
An annoyed glint in Alfia's eyes, she couldn't resist playfully poking Bell in the cheek,"That's not a compliment, Bell," she chided with a poke.
Bell's eyes widened, and he let out an indignant cry, the sharp poke surprising him. "Ow," he protested, the sensation still stinging on his cheek.
Zard took the opportunity to shift the conversation. He turned his attention to Erebus, addressing him with a respectful tone. "Well, that was cute. So, what's the next step, Lord Erebus?" he inquired, his words an invitation for guidance.
Erebus leaned back in his chair, his authoritative presence commanding attention. "Well, no one knows that we are members of Evilus," he began, his voice measured and confident. "So, I would say giving Bell his Falna and registering with the Guild probably. Also, did Zeus and Hera leave anything behind that could be of use to us in establishing a familia?"
Bell's excitement was palpable as he interjected, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. "SWEET! I am getting a FLANA!" he exclaimed, his joy echoing through the room.
Alfia, her expression holding a blend of amusement and irritation, couldn't resist delivering a smack to Bell's forehead. "Noisy," she chided, her voice firm, her touch gentle yet corrective. "And yes, they did. I know of at least a dozen safe houses that I checked already, and they are still intact. What were you looking to have done?"
The room took on a sense of purpose as Erebus leaned forward, the weight of their impending decision palpable. "Well, we will need to find a home first once we register," he began, his voice holding the gravity of their task. "So I was hoping you would know of some available assets." His gaze shifted to Bell, a leader seeking his counsel. "Bell, two questions for you. Do you want to receive your Falna now or register with the Guild? Second, you said your mom feared a light being snuffed out. What did you mean by that?" Erebus's inquiry bore the weight of unspoken curiosity, his inner thoughts playing out across his features.
Bell's eyes shone with a sense of eagerness, his determination unwavering as he answered Erebus. "FALNA first, please Lord Erebus," he said, his voice holding a note of urgency, a young hero on the cusp of a new chapter in his life. "Before my mom passed, she warned me against Loki and Freya but mentioned that Astraea and her familia were kind, but that the world was not. So they will be snuffed soon. I don't want that, so I want to prevent it if I can."
Erebus nodded, a sense of purpose reflected in his eyes, as he absorbed Bell's response. The room was charged with a blend of hope and determination, a group of individuals united by a common cause. The atmosphere was one of transition, the promise of new beginnings and the weight of past warnings merging seamlessly.
Erebus's voice held the weight of authority as he issued his command. "Astraea, I see. Very well. Alright, Bell, come over here, take off your shirt. So I can give you my Blessing," he ordered, his words precise, his tone conveying the solemnity of the ritual.
Bell's eagerness shone in his eyes as he swiftly complied with the instructions, baring his back. He knelt before Erebus, his young frame tense with both excitement and the weight of the moment. Erebus, with a steady hand, pierced his own finger, the blood welling up. With deliberate strokes, he began to inscribe Bell's falna onto the young hero's skin.
Alfia and Zard stood behind Bell, their watchful eyes keenly observing the ritual. They noticed a subtle change in Erebus's expression, a fleeting moment where his brows knitted together and his finger slowed for an instant before resuming its work.
After the inscription was complete, Erebus carefully transferred Bell's status to a piece of paper, each character reaction reflective of their collective anticipation. The room was charged with a mix of emotions, from Bell's hopeful anticipation to Erebus's hidden concerns. The atmosphere was one of sacred ritual and transformation.
Bell Cranel
Human
Age 13
Lvl 1
Strength: I-0
Endurance: I-0
Dexterity: I-0
Agility: I-0
Magic: I-0
Magic:
[Satanas Version] (Inherited)
User sends out waves of Sound towards the enemy
Quick chant: Gospel
Skills:
[Realis Phrase-Crystallization of Desires]
As long as owner has a strong desire and goal, he will grow stronger according to his desires
Exponential Growth
Immunity to charm
Status Limit is broken
Stronger desire results in stronger growth
Continued desire results in continued growth
Skill automatically applied to those closest to the user.
Strength of effect is based on the recipient's desire.
Those in proximity have the same effects as user applied to themselves.
Copy (Inherited)
Allows its user to replicate the movements and actions the user has observed once
Grants the user to ability to execute the copied techniques with a precision that ignores the user's natural limitations
Grants the user an understanding of the intricacies and subtleties behind the technique in question.
The user not only gains the physical ability to perform these actions but also absorbs the essence of their techniques.
User's knowledge extends beyond the physical execution, delves into strategy, philosophy, and the very essence of the technique being copied.
[Inheritance of Talent]
User has monstrous talent and will surpassing the Incarnation of Talent herself. The user slowly gains some Magic, Abilities, Skills, and Development Abilities that belong to the Incarnation of Talent(Limit off Status achieved). [Magic: [Satanas Version] Gospel is gained], (Development Abilities [MAGE (I) Is Gained]) Skills [Copy] is gained] and Abilities are linked to the user's Skills and Abilities).
"Okay, Bell. It's done." Erebus as his mind flashes back briefly after giving Bell his status and thinks 'Was this you're doing Clotho, Lachesis, Atropos? What fate do you have for this mortal. I hope it is triumph and not a tragedy. '
Flashback Start
Beneath the moonless shroud of night, the city of Orario lay shrouded in an unsettling stillness, its cobblestone streets bearing witness to the shadows and secrets that thrived in its alleys. Erebus, a solitary figure, wandered through the dimly lit labyrinth of Daedalus Street, his footsteps echoing in the silence. The looming threat of Evilus's impending attack had cast palpable tension upon the city, and the weight of the future bore down on him.
As he contemplated his role in the upcoming chaos, Erebus's eyes swept over the desolation that surrounded him. The buildings, once proud and resilient, were now marked by scars of previous battles, their wounds testament to the city's unfolding chaos.
Amidst this grim backdrop, a flicker of movement caught his attention. Huddled behind a crumbling wall, a boy trembled in the darkness, a fragile figure lost in the turmoil of the night. Curiosity overcame Erebus's contemplation, and he approached the frightened soul cautiously.
"Hey, are you..." he began, his voice laced with concern.
The boy's wide eyes met Erebus's, glistening with the sheen of unshed tears. His voice quivered as he whimpered, "Please don't hurt me." The desperation in his plea was undeniable, a raw cry for safety in the face of looming danger.
Erebus studied the boy with a second glance, taking in the striking details that defined him. His hair, an ethereal shade of white, called to mind the pristine purity of freshly fallen snow. Yet, what truly captivated Erebus were the two vibrant red eyes that gleamed like rare rubellite jewels. They held a defiance, an untamed spirit even in the midst of such vulnerability.
As the boy's trembling form came into focus, Erebus couldn't help but wonder at the depth hidden behind those crimson eyes. 'Those eyes, even in his state right now, they are defiant,' he thought, sensing an unyielding strength within the boy's frail exterior.
Erebus, driven by a desire to offer solace, sat down beside the boy. The sudden presence took the boy by surprise, but he made no move to retreat. Instead, he listened intently to Erebus's words.
"You know," Erebus began, his voice gentle, "there are many people who misunderstand the nature of darkness. People are afraid of the darkness because they think it is the opposite of the light, but they are all wrong."
The boy's eyes widened with curiosity as he processed the enigmatic words. "They are?" he asked, his voice a whisper of uncertainty, the darkness slowly releasing its hold on his spirit as he inched away from the confines of his hiding place.
Erebus nodded, his words laced with wisdom. "Yes, darkness isn't the enemy of light. It's a canvas for both fear and courage. It's in the dark that we find our true selves, where we discover our strength. You, my friend, have already shown bravery tonight." He offered the boy a reassuring smile, hoping to ignite a flicker of hope within his crimson gaze. The boy's eyes, once filled with fear, now held a spark of curiosity and newfound courage.
Amid the shadowed solitude of the night, Erebus and the boy found themselves in a moment of connection, two souls bound by the enigma of darkness. They sat side by side, beneath a moonless sky, the atmosphere heavy with untold stories and the secrets that lingered in the stillness.
Erebus's voice, a soft murmur in the obsidian night, wove a tapestry of wisdom that transcended the visible and the unseen. "Darkness and Light are not opposites, but in fact, they are twins," he spoke, his words like a whispered revelation. "One can't exist without the other. Life and Death. Love and Hate. Mercy and Ruthlessness. Beginning and End. Poison and Cure."
The boy, his red eyes glimmering with newfound curiosity, became drawn to the young man's enigmatic words. He sensed a profound truth in what was being shared, a deeper understanding of the world's dualities.
"None of them is evil or good," Erebus continued, the weight of his words punctuating the night. "People who use them are the ones who decide that."
In the boy's eyes, a spark of realization and fascination kindled. The darkness seemed to relinquish its grip on his heart, allowing his spirit to emerge from the shadowed cocoon that had concealed him.
Erebus, mindful of the late hour, offered a reassuring smile. "I think I've kept you here long enough. You should go back home."
The boy, his voice filled with newfound excitement, bowed respectfully before departing. "Thank you," he exclaimed, his gratitude palpable in his words, and he darted away like a fleeting shadow.
As the boy disappeared into the night, Erebus watched with a sense of warmth in his heart. "What a nice child," he murmured to himself, a hint of regret in his tone. "Should've asked for his name." With those thoughts, he turned and continued his journey through the quiet, mysterious streets of Orario, where darkness and light danced their eternal waltz, each holding its own unique beauty in the tapestry of existence.
Flashback end
The atmosphere in the room underwent a sudden transformation, every adult present was left in stunned silence, their expressions frozen in wide-eyed disbelief. They stood like statues, their jaws hanging open, as if they had just witnessed an unimaginable miracle unfold before them.
Bell, at the center of the bewildered gathering, felt a mixture of worry and then amazement wash over him. He had anticipated the shock that his status would elicit, but the extent of their reaction left him astounded. His heart swelled with pride as he looked at the numbers displayed in his status, a radiant smile gracing his features. With this newfound strength, he was one step closer to fulfilling the promise he had made to his mother.
"Now, Bell," Erebus began, his voice tinged with a sense of wisdom, "we will talk more about this, but you must never tell anyone about your status. I have locked it, so no one can see it." He regarded the boy with a knowing smile, "I think it's time we head to the Guild and register the Erebus Familia. Also, I have a perfect location in mind for our mansion."
Bell nodded, his eyes filled with determination as he absorbed Erebus's words. "Got it," he replied, his voice filled with resolve. With this alliance, a new chapter of his life was about to begin, and the rhythmic flow of their partnership had already set in motion a series of events that would shape their destinies in the intricate tapestry of the city of Orario.
Guild:
The four of them were walking to the Guild while Bell was holding Alfia's hand. Everyone stared intently upon every move that the group made. The journey to the Guild was an eventful one, everyone stared intently upon every move that the group made. Everyone noticed the presence of the two Level 7 adventurers, Alfia and Zald, made an imposing sight flanking Erebus and Bell, their aura of power undeniable, and every gaze that met them seemed to be drawn inescapably to their presence.
Adventurers and civilians alike watched with rapt attention, parting ways as they made way for the trio, their expressions a mixture of awe, curiosity, and respect. Despite the passage of time, Alfia and Zald remained unmistakable figures in the eyes of the city's inhabitants, a testament to their legendary status.
Bell, holding Alfia's hand, observed the inquisitive stares of those around them, his innocent curiosity shining through. "Why is everyone looking at us?" he asked, the question reflecting the innocence of youth.
Alfia, her gaze sweeping over the crowd, responded with a tender smile. "Because, sweetie, they recognize who me and Zald are and that we have a new God to serve. They are trying to figure us out."
Bell nodded in understanding, his wide eyes taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling city around him. The rhythm of their journey continued, marked by the watchful eyes of the city's denizens, who were witnessing a momentous shift in the balance of power within Orario. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, and the future held the promise of thrilling adventures.
The Guild's entrance loomed before them, a bustling hub of activity where adventurers, gods, and their companions congregated. The group weaved their way through the crowd, their eyes scanning for a receptionist who was unoccupied. It didn't take long before they spotted her, a lone figure behind a counter, engrossed in her duties but with adventurers.
The receptionist, Rose, was a striking red-haired Werewolf in her earlies twenties, her brown-yellow eyes shimmering with youthful vitality. She was engrossed in her work until the moment her gaze locked with the approaching group. Like a primal instinct sensing an imminent threat, her head shot up, her expression shifting from absorption to stark alertness.
In the blink of an eye, the color drained from Rose's cheeks, and her fear became palpable. Her wide-eyed stare remained fixed on the approaching figures, her heart pounding in her chest. She had recognized the newcomers, and the realization sent a chill down her spine.
She remembers the executives of Zues and Hera from her first years at the Guild. Her brow furrowed in confusion the sight Alfia of holding the hand of a child. The presence of a God accompanying the group was not lost on her. The atmosphere in the Guild shifted as whispers and hushed conversations filled the air, adventurers and staff alike trying to piece together the enigmatic puzzle that had just walked through the doors. The whispers of others flowed, like a symphony, swelled with intrigue and uncertainty as the group neared the counter. Rose, extended a welcoming smile to the approaching group. Her eyes flickered with a mix of nervousness and anticipation, beads of sweat forming on her forehead as she prepared to assist them.
"Hello, welcome to the Guild. How may I help you?" Rose greeted, her voice warm but tinged with anxiety. She was fully aware of the weight of the moment and the importance of the newcomers who stood before her.
"Hello, my name is Erebus. We want to register a new Familia." Erebus introduced himself with a calm and confident demeanor.
Rose's anxiety momentarily replaced by efficiency as she continued the registration process. "Okay, we need to know the members' names. Am I correct in assuming the two behind you are Gluttony and Silence?" she inquired, her gaze directed at the pair.
Erebus and the others nodded in agreement, confirming the identities of the two accompanying him. "Yes," Erebus confirmed, his voice resonating with authority as he continued with the registration.
""""""""WOOOOOOOH"""""""
However, the confirmation seemed to ignite a wave of excitement among the Guild's inhabitants. A sudden, raucous crowd formed behind the group, their cheers echoing through the space. But the revelry was short-lived. Alfia, her patience tested by the noisy throng, delivered a chilling ultimatum.
"Silence. Or I will Silence YOU," she threatened, her voice laced the weight of her magical prowess, gathering around her like an impending storm, sent ripples of hushed terror through the crowded Guild. As her voice bore the threat of her magic, the boisterous crowd fell into an eerie silence, their earlier enthusiasm extinguished, and their faces etched with a touch of fear. Not a word was spoken, but the unspoken command had been understood.
Alfia's commanding presence was enough to quell not only the unruly crowd but also those nearby adventurers who had been mere spectators to the unfolding drama. The sudden transition from lively chatter to an oppressive silence hung heavy in the air, leaving only the trio of adventurers and Erebus standing as the epicenter of this unexpected storm.
Amidst the silence, Rose couldn't help but voice her curiosity, her finger pointing at Bell. "Who is the boy, then?"
Erebus, ever composed, responded without hesitation, "Their nephew, Bell."
A thunderous outcry erupted from the crowd that had formed behind them, a wave of disbelief and surprise that swept through the room like a storm. The sheer volume of their exclamations seemed to echo off the walls, but before it could swell any further, Alfia's intervention was swift and commanding.
"Do you have a death wish?" she thundered, her hand raised as if she held dominion over the very atmosphere. Just as before, the crowd vanished, as if they had never existed, leaving only the four of them in the immediate vicinity.
Rose, still caught in the whirlwind of emotions, turned her attention to Bell, scrutinizing his Status and the boy himself. She observed him with a critical eye, then looked at Erebus for assurance.
"He's not too young and no buts," Erebus replied with a smile.
"Very well. I am sure he will be fine. He has Silence and Gluttony," Rose conceded, nodding her understanding.
Twilight Manor Finn's Office.
The office was a sanctuary of tranquility, adorned with a collection of art and furnishings. A flag of the Plum Goddess Fianna stood in one corner, a silent sentinel of serenity, while a wooden table took center stage, adorned with a delicate glass vase. Dim, amber lights bathed the room in a warm, amber glow, casting elongated shadows that danced upon the walls. The scent of incense wafted through the air, lingering like a comforting embrace.
Finn, a man who appeared much younger than his years, sat behind his desk, the afternoon sun filtering through the curtains, casting a soft, golden halo on his tousled blonde hair. His glasses perched on the bridge of his nose, and his slender fingers moved gracefully across a pad of paper, as if dancing to the rhythm of his thoughts.
Outside the door, Dain stood, his chest heaving from a hurried approach. Muffled voices seeped through the wooden barrier, indicating that the captain was present. With a sense of urgency, Dain hammered on the door, his knuckles rapping in rapid succession.
Finn's eyes lifted from his writing, and he raised an inquisitive eyebrow. "Who is it?" he called, his voice tinged with curiosity.
Dain, panting heavily, took a moment to compose himself. "It's Dain," he managed to gasp out, his words bearing a sense of urgency. "I'm sorry to barge in, but I need to talk to you. It's urgent."
Finn, unruffled by the abrupt intrusion, waved a hand dismissively. "Come in, then," he said, his voice calm and measured.
Dain pushed the door open and stepped inside, his gaze sweeping across the office. He noted the presence of Loki, Riveria, and Gareth. He approached Finn with a determined expression. "Finn, I'm sorry to bother you, but I was at the Guild and saw something that I had to report immediately."
Finn sat up, his sharp gaze locking onto the source of the disturbance. "Alright, what is it, Dain?" he inquired, his voice firm and measured.
Dain, a figure hunched with urgency, struggled to catch his breath. "Alfia...and...Zald...are...back," he managed to gasp out, each word laden with a sense of urgency.
Finn's brows furrowed, his eyes narrowing in concentration. He rose from his desk, his tall form dominating the room. "WHAT!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with a mix of shock and disbelief.
Dain, his expression earnest, nodded vigorously. "I know it sounds crazy, but it's true! They came back with a new god and everything this morning, and they're at the guild registering as adventurers."
Finn sighed, his frustration evident as he ran his hands through his tousled hair. "So Alfia and Zald are back? Was there anyone else with them?" he inquired, his inner thoughts and feelings a whirlwind of concern.
Dain nodded in response. "Yes," he confirmed, "they had a child with them. Erebus registered him as an adventurer as well."
Finn let out a low groan, his shoulders slumping with the weight of the news. "This is just what we need right now," he muttered, a sense of unease clouding his features. He straightened, his resolve apparent. "Fine, we'll go check this out at the Guild."
"Shit. Why did they have to come back now?" Loki's voice dripped with resentment, his anger palpable. "Couldn't they have just died out in the wastelands like the rest of their shitty familia?"
The words hung in the air, a heavy silence following Loki's bitter outburst. The office seemed to shrink under the weight of her venomous comments. Riveria, her eyes filled with a mix of reproach and sorrow, responded to Loki with a tone that held a sense of reprimand.
"Loki, that is a horrible thing to say," she chided, her voice laced with disappointment. "Zeus and Hera protected Orario for 1,000 years, and they completed two of the three great quests. They deserve more respect than that." Her thoughts, however, harbored a more profound sentiment. 'I am glad that you are alive, Alfia, despite everything that has happened. I am glad that I will get to see you again, my friend.'
Gareth, the voice of reason, added his weight to Riveria's reprimand. "Loki, I think you should know that is too far. Even if we are rival familias, that is too much." His words held a touch of admonition, the lines of his face etched with disapproval.
Loki, his scowl deepening, turned away from the trio, his thoughts a storm of emotions and frustrations. "Fine," he grumbled, his pride unyielding. "I'll go with you to the Guild."
The atmosphere in the office remained charged, the discord of emotions reverberating within the confined space. As the group made their way to the Guild, Alfia, Zald, and Erebus stood by the registration counter, their presence a testament to their return. Finn approached them with caution, flanked by Riveria and Gareth, while Loki lingered behind the others.
The atmosphere in the Guild was tense, an invisible shroud of hostility hanging in the air. Alfia, her gaze sharp as a blade, directed her scathing words at Finn and the rest. "What do you want, you shitty half-pint bastard?" Her voice dripped with venom, her anger unrestrained.
Finn, his composure unshaken, spoke through clenched teeth, each word a reflection of his determination. "It's Finn, and we are here to see what you are planning. We also need to know who the child is."
Alfia's smug smile revealed her defiance. "None of your fucking business," she retorted, her tone unapologetic. "So why don't you fuck off before we kick your ass."
Riveria, the voice of reason, stepped forward, her voice calm and measured. "Alfia, we need to talk. Please, let's just talk."
Alfia's glare bore into Riveria, her rage barely contained. Alfia's fiery gaze remained locked onto Riveria, a dagger-sharp intensity in her eyes. Her anger was like a stormy sea, barely contained beneath her stern exterior. To those observing, it was an unyielding facade, but Zald, with his keen perception, sensed the inner turmoil that raged within her.
A whirlwind of emotions churned within Alfia, hidden beneath the surface. Her gaze held a hint of surprise, quickly masked by a deeper, almost imperceptible flicker of recognition. In that fleeting moment, it was clear that she hadn't expected to encounter Riveria here, a familiar face from a time that felt like another lifetime. Her emotions were a tempest of conflicting currents, a mixture of uncertainty and vulnerability that threatened to break through the dam of her anger.
The torrent of anger that had driven her initial response now wavered, replaced by a more complex blend of emotions. Beneath her smug smile that had faded earlier, her lips quivered slightly. The presence of her old friend, Riveria, had stirred up long-buried memories and unresolved emotions. Alfia's internal struggle was a turbulent whirlpool of anger, confusion, regret, betrayal, and an unexpected sliver of longing. It was an intricate web of emotions that only Zald's perceptive gaze managed to discern. Zald, standing nearby, watched the silent exchange between the two women, keenly aware of the undercurrents that flowed beneath Alfia's words and expressions.
The tension in the Guild hall hung like a heavy, oppressive fog, thick with the potential for violence. Riveria, with a plea in her eyes, spoke in a measured, imploring tone. "Please, let's not start a fight. We need to talk about what's going on and try to come up with a solution. There's no need for a fight."
Zald, his anger a smoldering ember, retorted with a smirk that radiated arrogance. "Ahhh, that is a good joke. Who knew the stuck-up elf could tell one. Us fight you? Don't make me laugh, little elf. Fighting you wouldn't even be considered a warm-up for either me or Alfia, and you know it." His words were laden with contempt, and his posture exuded readiness for confrontation.
Riveria, maintaining her calm expression, sought to bridge the gap of hostility with reason. "Zald, we don't have to fight. We can work things out. We don't need to resort to violence." Her voice held a soothing quality, an attempt to defuse the mounting hostility.
Zald, unmoved by her words, responded with a harsh glare, his frustration simmering beneath the surface. "We don't need to hear a bunch of useless bullshit. We have no need for a bunch of useless and weak backstabbers. Just watch. Stay out of the way. You aren't even worth our time." His words were a declaration of disdain, and the atmosphere in the Guild grew increasingly charged. The air in the Guild hall grew dense with unspoken animosity.
"Oh. What are you planning with this god of yours, anyway?" Finn inquired, his curiosity laced with caution.
Zald, responded with a venomous retort. "That's none of your business, you damn two-faced rat bastard. If we have a problem, we'll handle it ourselves. So don't interfere, or you'll regret it. And you should know that better than anyone how out of your league you are." He rested a hand on his greatsword, his stance radiating readiness for confrontation. Alifia, beside him, was equally poised, her eyes locked onto the interlopers, her body taut and ready to pounce at a moment's notice.
Riveria, with her measured tone and a plea in her voice, sought to inject reason into the tense exchange. "Zald, this is a serious matter. We need to discuss what is happening and figure out a plan. We can't just ignore it and expect it to go away. Please, just talk to us."
Alfia, however, was unwilling to yield, her response dripping with disdain. "Ahh, Riveria, the last thing I want is to listen to anything you have to say." Her words, like a slap in the face, further escalated the hostility in the room.
Riveria's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of hurt flashing across her features as she tried to process Alfia's harsh words. "You don't mean that, Alfia. You can't."
Alfia, however, remained unyielding, her voice dripping with disdain as she hurled her verbal assault. "Oh, but I do. You are nothing to me. You are worthless, a nobody. And I don't have to waste my time talking to you. You aren't worth it." Her sneer cut through the air like a blade, adding a layer of animosity to the charged atmosphere.
Riveria, struggling to contain her emotions, took a step back, her hurt etched clearly on her face. Her voice quivered with disbelief, "Alfia...how could you say that? We were friends."
Alfia's response was scathing, her words heavy with the weight of their history. "Were. The keyword here is 'were friends.' We aren't anymore, not since you and your shitty-ass familia stabbed us in the back. It is truly pathetic what you pulled. After everything we did for Orario, you exile us just so you can take the top spot for your own. Truly, pathetic, only the work of cowards. So don't even bother trying to talk to us." Her voice was laced with bitterness, and the room seemed to pulse with the tension of their strained relationship.
Riveria's voice trembled with the weight of her plea as she tried to bridge the gap of hostility that had formed between old friends. "Alfia, please just talk to us. We can't keep fighting like this. We need to come up with a solution. We need to work together. Evilus is on the rise. They must be stopped."
But instead of a softening, Zald's rage roared to the surface, his voice thunderous in the room. "HAHAHAHAHAHHA. AND WHO's DAMN fault is that!?" He bellowed in anger. "You exile the guardians of the city and then complain when the evil we have been suppressing comes out of the woodwork. Were you really that stupid that you didn't see this coming? So much for the greatest strategic mind. More like the greatest self-serving ego." His words were a scathing indictment, a testament to the deep-seated resentment that had festered over the years.
Finn, finally intervened with a tone of finality. "That's enough. If you're not going to cooperate, we'll leave. Riveria, we should go back to the headquarters and discuss this." His words were a clear signal that further discourse had reached an impasse.
The room, fraught with tension, saw the conversation reach its breaking point as Loki, took the initiative. "Alright. Come on, Riveria. We have wasted enough time here. We'll have to find another way to handle this," she said, her tone marked by a sense of resignation and weariness.
Riveria, casting one last hopeful look at Alfia, tried to salvage a sliver of their fractured relationship. "Goodbye, Alfia. I am glad that you are alive. I hope we can be friends again."
But Alfia's response was as cold as ice, her words laced with bitterness. "In your dreams, bitch. Don't even bother. We don't need your help." Her retort was a stark rejection of any olive branch.
Riveria, undeterred, maintained her composure, and with a quiet determination, she made her final plea. "I know. I'm sorry. But I will not stop trying to change your mind." Her words carried a weight of genuine regret, and she left the room, leaving the door ajar for reconciliation.
As Loki Famila exits the Guild
The street's dimly lit atmosphere seemed to reflect the somber mood of the exchange. As Gareth spoke, his words carried a sense of realism, grounded in the knowledge that reconciliation was a distant hope. "I don't think that's going to happen, Riveria. Alfia and Zald have made their decision. We need to focus on what we can do next."
Riveria, though understanding the futility of her efforts, offered a silent nod. She followed Finn and Gareth as they made their way out of the Guild, leaving Alfia and Zald standing at the counter with a god and a child.
Loki's voice, filled with cynicism, cut through the heavy air, questioning Riveria's actions. "Well, that was a waste of time. What the hell were you thinking, Riveria? Trying to be friends with them."
Riveria, however, remained steadfast in her belief that dialogue was the only path forward. She responded with a sense of urgency and conviction. "Loki, please. We need to try to talk to them. We can't let this go any further. We could use their help to take out Evilus."
The Captain's Office at Twilight Manor, bathed in dim, moody lighting, served as the backdrop for the group's gathering. Loki's scowl was a reflection of her deep-seated disgust at the mere thought of collaborating with Alfia and Zald. She leaned back in his chair, his demeanor brimming with disdain, setting the tone for the conversation.
As they settled around the table, Loki didn't waste any time in voicing his frustration. "What the hell were you thinking, Riveria? Why did you bring them back into the picture?" His words were laced with anger and confusion.
Riveria, however, sought to provide some clarity and reason to their predicament. Her tone was one of contemplation, as she responded to Loki's questions. "Loki, it's not that simple. We have a common enemy, and we may need their help to defeat it. We can't just ignore the situation and hope it goes away."
The atmosphere in the room was thick with tension, the characters' conflicting emotions palpable. Loki's skepticism clashed with Riveria's optimism, and the room seemed to crackle with unresolved feelings and unspoken fears.
Loki, still resistant to the idea of collaboration, probed further. "So what? Are we supposed to work with them now?"
Riveria maintained her stance, her voice reflecting a sense of determination. "Maybe not with them. But we should at least try to come up with a plan and see what we can do. We can't let Evilus take over Orario. They will destroy the city and unseal the Dungeon." Her words conveyed the urgency of the situation, even if the path forward remained uncertain.
Finn leaned forward, his voice laden with concern and a hint of irritation. "Well, what should we do? We can't just let them walk all over us either. it doesn't seem like they want to help us either."
Riveria, the voice of determination, countered with a sense of urgency in her words. "Well, we have to do something. We can't just stand by and watch as Evilus wreak havoc all over Orario. We have to stop them before they can do any damage."
Finn joined in, acknowledging the reality of their situation. "I think we need to find a way to negotiate with Alfia and Zald. We can't just ignore them. They're stronger than us and could pose a threat if we don't work together."
Riveria, undeterred by the mounting challenges, exhaled a sigh and expressed her unwavering resolve. "Well, let's start brainstorming. I will keep trying to talk to Alfia. I refuse to give up. We have to come up with a plan of some sort. Evilus can't be allowed to take over Orario."
Finn, always the pragmatic one, reinforced the need for careful planning and investigation. "Well, that's going to be a difficult task. We have no idea what their plans are or who their allies are. We need to start investigating and gathering information."
Back in the guild hall.
Alfia, Zald, Bell, and Erebus remained clustered around the registration desk, their hushed voices a counterpoint to the surrounding bustle of the Guild. The dimly lit room, with its countless adventurers registering and going about their business, seemed indifferent to the heavy atmosphere this trio carried.
Erebus let out a deep sigh of frustration, a tinge of disappointment seeping into his voice. "Well, that was a waste of time."
Alfia, the fiery spirit of the group, concurred with a degree of cynicism. "Yeah, well. We knew it wouldn't be easy. Those people have always been stubborn and selfish."
Erebus couldn't help but share his sense of concern, a subtle apprehension permeating his words. "True, but I was hoping for something more than just an argument. Now they'll be suspicious, and we'll have to deal with them sniffing around."
Zald, the resolute figure, brushed off the potential trouble with a calculated dismissiveness. "Let them. They're just a bunch of fools. We can take care of them easily enough."
Erebus, the one who preferred a smoother path, couldn't shake his disquiet about potential complications. "Still, I would prefer it if we didn't have to deal with them. We have enough on our plates already without having to worry about the other familias in Orario."
"I agree. This is getting tedious," Zald grumbled, his tone heavy with frustration as he ran a hand through his unruly hair.
Alfia's voice held a hint of annoyance as she countered, "It's not like we didn't warn them."
Zald, usually the voice of reason, chimed in with a sense of exasperation, "Yes, I know. But still. They are being more irritating than usual."
"Ha! I finally found you, Bell Cranell!" A vibrant burst of red hair and the brilliance of emerald eyes pierced the air like a sudden, blinding flare, causing the group to halt in their tracks.
The moment those words echoed through the air, Bell's cheeks ignited with a deep, rosy blush. The crimson hue spread across his features like a wildfire, highlighting his freckles and the barely noticeable scar above his left eyebrow. He stood there, seemingly frozen, except for his nervous fidgeting, his heart racing in his chest. The rapid his thumping heart was almost audible as the silence stretched on.
The red-haired woman, her fiery tresses cascading in waves, didn't waste a second. She lunged forward, her lithe frame easily closing the distance, and pulled Bell into a tight embrace. Her strong arms crushed him against her chest, leaving no room for escape. Bell felt her warmth, the softness of her curves against his fidgeting frame. Her laughter was like music, a sweet melody that danced in the air around them.
"Miss Alise!" Bell managed to get out before he found himself sandwiched into her chest, his voice muffled by the embrace.
The woman who had captured him in her arms was none other than Alise, her vibrant, fiery hair cascading around them like a curtain of flames. Her emerald eyes shimmered with an intoxicating blend of relief and excitement as she finally found him. She nuzzled his cheek with her own, her lips soft against his skin, and her laughter like a melodious tune filled with genuine joy.
"Ooooh, I missed you, Bell," she cooed, her voice laced with a depth of emotion that reached deep into his heart. "You know you worried all of us when you ran away. Where have you been?" Her fingers playfully ruffled his hair, leaving a trail of sensations that caused Bell to become even more fidgety
Bell, momentarily dazed by the overwhelming sensation of her nearness, managed a nervous chuckle. "I... I've been around. It's good to see you again, Miss Alise."
Alfia, standing nearby, felt her eyebrow arch, her perfect porcelain features etched with a veneer of annoyance. A barely visible vein began to emerge in her forehead, pulsing with the onset of an unfamiliar emotion—a mixture of barely suppressed rage and murderous intent. Her lips pursed, and she discreetly clenched her fists, her icy-heterochronic gaze locked onto the reunion with a cold intensity.
Zald and Erebus, having witnessed Alfia's ever-calculating reactions, exchanged sly smirks as they watched the scene unfold. In the depths of their minds, they couldn't help but acknowledge the brewing storm around Bell. Each harbored their own thoughts, hidden behind sly smiles and knowing glances.
"Oh, she is going to have a hard time in the future if this is how girls are already reacting to Bell," Zald thought privately, a hint of amusement in his eyes.
Erebus, his expression betraying a similar sentiment, added his own private musings, "The lad's really is a son of Zeus already, that's for sure."
"Ummm, I'm sorry, but I had to find my aunt," Bell replied quietly, his cheeks turning bright crimson from embarrassment as he found himself still sandwiched into Alise's chest, even though she had stopped nuzzling his face.
Alise's emerald eyes softened with a mixture of amusement and affection. "Awwwww, you're so cute. But that's not a good excuse." Her voice was gentle, her teasing laced with tenderness as she pouted at Bell. Then, her expression grew more serious as she continued, "Bell, the city is dangerous right now. Evilus has been on the move a lot recently. Something terrible could have happened to you. All the other girls were worried about you. Even Ryu was worried, and you know how she is. Though she tried to hide it. Everyone has been trying to find you when they're on patrol or in their spare time."
Bell's guilt swelled within him as he absorbed Alise's words. Her concern was palpable, and he felt the weight of his actions, which had caused his friends and comrades so much worry. He couldn't help but feel touched by their care for him.
Alise's gaze locked onto his, her eyes searching his soul with a gravity that was impossible to ignore. Then, she pulled him even closer against her chest, as if to shield him from the world's dangers.
The sight of Bell nestled in Alise's arms, their proximity and the warmth of their embrace, sent another vein pulsing on Alfia's forehead. Her emotions were a tempest, her rage and annoyance battling for dominance.
Meanwhile, Zald and Erebus exchanged amused glances, their thoughts in sync. "All the other girls... the boy is already working on a harem. He really is a son of Zeus." Despite the underlying humor, they focused intently on Alise's words about Evilus, understanding the gravity of the situation.
"I-I know. I'm really sorry. I just had to find her. I didn't have a choice. But I did find her, so I don't plan on disappearing," Bell stammered, his voice filled with sincerity. His eyes were wide, and he wore an apologetic expression that couldn't be mistaken.
Alise, gazing at him with a mixture of affection and exasperation, couldn't help but smile at his earnestness. She reached out and ruffled his hair, her touch gentle and reassuring, causing Bell to blush brightly in response. His cheeks flushed like ripe apples, and his gaze darted toward Erebus, searching for support.
Erebus, the ever-calm presence in the room, chuckled at the situation and decided to lend Bell a hand before Alfia's frustration reached catastrophic levels.
"Well, I am sorry, my child," Erebus began, his voice steady and unwavering, "but Bell and his aunt are part of my familia. So they will be staying at our familia residence once we are established. Though Bell will, of course, be free to be friends with whoever he wishes."
The weight of Erebus's words hung in the air, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. He spoke with authority, and his decision was clear, leaving no room for argument.
Alise's eyes widened in shock, and her response was an immediate, "What!?"
"Yep. We just registered as a familia. I'm Erebus," he introduced himself, his voice carrying a sense of authority and a hint of intrigue. His eyes, the color of deep amethyst, bore into Alise, probing for information.
Alise's emerald eyes widened in surprise as she let go of Bell, stepping back and staring at the God in front of her. She glanced between Erebus and the two behind him, uncertainty flickering in her gaze. Then, the realization struck her, and her expression shifted from shock to understanding.
"Oh," she stammered, her voice tinged with a mix of embarrassment and realization. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt. It's just that Bell disappeared four days ago after we took him in, and we were worried. He hasn't been coming to the manor or anything. Most of us have been worried. And I am Alise Lovell, Captain of the Astraea Familia, Lord Erebus," she explained herself, her eyes still fixed on Bell with a worried expression.
Erebus,arched an eyebrow at the sudden mention of Astraea Familia and the connection to Bell. His gaze bore into Alise, and he assessed her carefully.
"That's because I was trying to find my Aunt. I didn't mean to worry you guys," Bell explained, his voice carrying the weight of his genuine apology.
Alise's emerald eyes softened as she looked at him, understanding in her gaze. She couldn't help but feel relieved that Bell was safe. Her stern voice softened as she responded, "You better not have meant it. It was bad enough when you disappeared from the manor."
In a sudden change of tone, Alise reached out and gently poked Bell's cheek. He blinked in surprise at the sudden touch, letting out an "Ow."
"That was for worrying me," Alise continued, her voice now filled with warmth. "Now that I know you're okay, I'm happy. And since you're safe, I guess I can forgive you. But promise me you'll never do that again. I was worried. So promise not to disappear like that again?"
The atmosphere in the room had shifted from uncertainty to a sense of reconciliation. Bell met Alise's gaze, a hint of gratitude in his eyes, and nodded in agreement, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Sorry, I promise, Alise. I won't disappear like that again."
"It's okay. Just please don't do it again. Or we might not let you leave ever again," Alise said, her voice filled with relief.
"I know, I'm sorry," Bell apologized once more, his eyes holding a sincerity that couldn't be denied. He gently stepped back from the hug, his gaze shifting to the group of adventurers that had gathered to watch the scene unfold.
Alise offered a reassuring smile, her emerald eyes filled with affection. "It's okay, I just worried."
"Yes, Miss," Bell replied obediently, a trace of warmth in his voice.
Alise's affectionate demeanor didn't waver as she wrapped her arms around Bell once more, pulling him close. "Oh, you're such a sweetheart. I love you, Bell," she exclaimed, her voice warm and filled with genuine emotion.
Bell's cheeks flushed crimson, and he looked away, unable to meet Alise's gaze. Her teasing words had a way of making him feel both bashful and flustered.
"Ohhhh. You're so cute when you blush," Alise said with a mischievous grin, her emerald eyes twinkling with amusement. "Now then! How to make you really blush. Let's see. Oh, I know."
With a playful glint in her eyes, Alise leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on Bell's cheek. The touch of her lips on his skin sent a shiver down his spine, and he froze in place, turning as red as a tomato. The unexpected kiss left him feeling both surprised and incredibly flustered.
"There, now you're forgiven," Alise declared, her fingers gently patting Bell's head.
"Uh-thank you, Miss Alice…" Bell stammered in response, his voice trembling with a mix of relief and anxiety.
"Muh. I told you. Just call me Alise," Alise corrected him with a warm smile, her tone reassuring.
As Alise's attention shifted to the other two adventurers who watched the scene unfold with amusement, Alfia's reaction was impossible to ignore. She stood there, her icy-blue eyes radiating barely suppressed rage, an intense glare directed at Alise. A third and fourth vein had started to bulge on her forehead as the atmosphere around her darkened and began to tremble.
"Well, since Bell is safe and sound, I'm sorry for taking up your time," Alise apologized, her voice holding sincerity as she bowed to Erebus and the others.
Erebus, still nervous about Alfia's reaction, replied with a chuckle and a hint of relief, "No, no. It's fine. You were just concerned about a friend."
Alfia's icy-heterochronic eyes, however, remained locked onto Alise with a glare that could freeze magma, the frigid intensity of her gaze conveying not just her distrust but the seething turmoil of rage that simmered beneath the surface.
"Yeah, well. Thank you for looking after him. We'll leave now. Bye, Bell. Let's meet again soon," Alise said, her voice carrying a mixture of warmth and fondness.
"I-It was no problem, Alise. I'll see you around," Bell replied, still struggling with his stutter as he tried to bid her farewell.
Alise flashed a bright smile at him before turning to walk out of the guild. Erebus, cleared his throat to refocus their attention and diffuse Alfia's rage.
"Bell, I'm afraid we have a lot of work to do. So it's best that we get started," Erebus said, his tone firm but not unkind.
"Y-yes. Right, Mr. Erebus. Let's go," Bell stammered, his eyes darting between Erebus, Zald, and Alfia.
As they moved to leave, Erebus couldn't help but take a moment to address the other adventurers who were still gathered, watching the scene unfold.
"Did you cockroaches have something to say?" Alfia's words cut through the silence, and she leveled a fury-filled glare at the onlookers. Her icy demeanor sent shivers down their spines.
The adventurers, realizing the danger of angering Alfia, fled in terror, dispersing quickly to avoid her wrath.
Later that night after bell has gone to sleep The adults have gathered in the living room to discuss the days events and Bell's status
Later that night, after Bell had gone to sleep, the adults gathered in the living room to discuss the day's events and Bell's status. The dimly lit room cast long shadows, adding an air of gravitas to their conversation.
"Alfia, Zard," Erebus began, his deep voice carrying the weight of his concerns. "I may be new to Genkai, but something tells me that Bell's status isn't normal."
Zard, his rough and boisterous demeanor unchanging, couldn't help but burst into laughter at the understatement. "HAHHAHHA. That is the fucking understatement of the year."
Alfia, on the other hand, met Erebus's observation with a more thoughtful demeanor. Her heterochronic eyes, sparkled with a mixture of intrigue and unease. "Really, that status is just insane. I don't think ANYONE has ever had a status like that in my time in Hera's familia. I mean two skills when first receiving a falna. It is unheard of, even to me."
"Same. Bell's status is ridiculous even by the standards of Zeus and Hera. I am not even sure what the first skill, Realis Phrase, does entirely," Zard mused, his voice laced with a sense of wonder and bewilderment. "It's a growth-boosting skill, which is rare enough to begin with. It doesn't say how much; it's just the strength of the user's desires. Bell has a strong desire, but how much of an effect does that have? Also, the skill applies to those close to him. That is beyond absurd. How does one define close? There are just too many unknowns. The only way to know for sure is to test it out."
As Zard pondered the intricacies of Bell's status, Alfia's heterochronic eyes, remained locked on the nephews status as if trying to decipher an unsolvable riddle. Her inner thoughts raced, grappling with the mysteries of Bell's powers and their potential implications.
"Also, Erebus, I want to know what this 'Status Limit Broken' means exactly," Alfia inquired, her voice holding an urgency that reflected her burning curiosity.
Erebus, the ever-calm presence in the room, met Alfia's gaze, his amethyst eyes filled with contemplation. "No idea for sure, but I have a guess if you want?" he offered, glancing at both Alfia and Zald, who nodded in agreement.
"Okay. So, I think it means he can break past the S rank on the Status based on the strength of his desire," Erebus explained, his voice tinged with a sense of wonder. "The greater the desire, the higher he can reach. I have no idea what his actual limit will be."
Alfia and Zald blinked several times in shock, their expressions a mix of disbelief and awe.
"Erebus, how is that even possible? I have never heard of anyone being able to do that. Even I have only ever made it to 1001," Alfia exclaimed incredulously, her heterochronic eyes wide with astonishment.
Erebus, his wisdom echoing in his voice, answered her with a sense of calm understanding, "Simple, my dear Alfia. Skills are based on a mortal's desires. Skills are a mortal's soul and desires made manifest. What makes them, them if you will. Bell wants to make his dreams a reality, and I believe that this skill will allow him to do so. His will is strong enough to craft a skill to make his desires a reality. It seems like he isn't going to let something like measly status limits stop him either."
As Erebus spoke, his thoughts drifted toward Bell, and he marveled at the young adventurer's indomitable spirit. "I can see how strong your will is, Bell. Truly, this skill would only come to one who wishes to be a hero above all else."
Zald, ever the realist, interjected with a chuckle and a shake of his head. "Good grief. This kid is just ridiculous."
The room was filled with a sense of awe and admiration, as the adults contemplated the limitless potential of Bell's unique skill. Erebus, the wise and watchful, continued to expound upon their newfound understanding.
"Oh, absolutely," Erebus affirmed, his voice carrying the weight of a significant revelation. "Bell is the kind of child that deities start wars over. So, we must keep this under wraps as much as possible. Given the strength of Bell's desires, I am expecting him to grow at an insane rate. We will need him to be able to defend himself as soon as possible. So I will need you two to take over that as soon as possible. Though, in the worst case, we can hold off on giving him a feat, but something tells me that will only work for so long. Plus, I will work on expanding the familia immediately."
Zald, pragmatic and ever the realist, endorsed the plan. "That sounds like a good plan. Also, I am going to suggest that Bell be the Captain of the familia. Neither I nor Alfia will be going into the Dungeon anytime soon. As such, it will be Bell's responsibility to lead the Familia. I also don't want the title."
Alfia, her heterochronic eyes reflecting her agreement, added, "I agree with Zald. I think that is for the best."
Erebus, the god among them, conceded with a wry grin, "Very well. We do still need to fill out the rest of that paperwork. I did not think staying in Genkai would require this much paperwork."
Both mortals couldn't help but smirk at their god's lighthearted complaints, knowing that their path forward was now clearer than ever.
Alfia's crimson lips tightened, and her fingers drummed impatiently on the polished mahogany table. Her presence filled the room with an aura of authority, a regal figure with a fiery determination that hinted at her noble lineage. Her heterochronic eyes, one a deep emerald green, the other a sapphire blue, smoldered with a mixture of irritation and resentment, like twin flames battling within her soul.
Erebus, leaning back in his ornate chair, raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Alfia's sudden change in demeanor. He couldn't help but appreciate her beauty even in moments of anger, her porcelain skin contrasting with the fiery intensity that radiated from her. Though he was never dumb enough to mention it outloud.
"What woman?" he inquired, the words rolling off his tongue like a velvet caress. His curiosity was piqued, but Zald, sitting on the other side of the table, knew all too well where this conversation was headed. He sighed in resignation and ran a hand through his unruly black hair, mentally bracing himself for the impending headache.
Zald rose from his seat with a resigned demeanor, crossing the room to a heavy wooden cabinet. He knew that a bottle of strong liquor was the only defense against the upcoming storm. His fingers danced along the cabinet's surface before seizing a crystal decanter filled with amber liquid. The rich scent of aged whiskey wafted through the room as he poured it into a crystal glass, the sound a comforting prelude to the storm brewing in Alfia's eyes.
Alfia's regal bearing was contrasted by the fire of her heterochronic eyes as she spoke, her voice laced with irritation. Her crimson lips quivered, her fingers tapping impatiently on the polished mahogany table.
"That Captain of the Astraea Familia," she began, her words dripping with disdain, "Her behavior irks me. She was far too forward with my adorable Bell."
Erebus, seated opposite her, leaned back in his chair, a faint smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. His voice held a touch of amusement as he responded, "Well, I actually found that quite amusing."
Alfia's eyes flashed, a dangerous gleam in her emerald and sapphire gaze. Her resolve solidified as her thoughts churned with protectiveness and anger. Her fingers clenched into fists, and magical energy began to crackle around her, a potent display of her growing anger.
"Nope, absolutely not," she ranted, her voice resonating with power, "That woman was a goddamn hyena looking to sink her teeth into my adorable nephew. I will not permit it."
The air in the room grew charged with her magical energy, the scent of ozone filling the space as the energy swirled around her, emphasizing her unwavering determination to shield Bell from any potential harm. Erebus, his amusement evaporated, watched in nervousness as Alfia's power manifested.
Zald leaned forward, a calm facade masking the unease that gnawed at him, trying to rein Alfia in. He had seen this before, Alfia's protectiveness in full force, and he knew that her determination was unwavering. With measured words, he spoke, trying to diffuse the mounting tension.
"Alfia, I hate to tell you this," he said, keeping his tone as composed as possible, "but a lot of women are probably going to chase after Bell." His gaze shifted briefly to the crackling, concentrated magical energy surrounding Alfia, a telltale sign of her escalating anger. He braced himself for what might come next.
Alfia's eyes bore into Zald's, a storm raging within them. Her voice, though controlled, carried a weight of unwavering resolve as she responded, "And I will beat down every last of those that I deem unworthy of my nephew."
Erebus, never one to shyf rom a like teasing, couldn't resist a sly remark. "So, you plan on becoming the judge of whether or not women are worthy of your nephew. So, you will be the Final Boss?"
Alfia's gaze flicked to Erebus, her lips curling into a small, fierce smile. Her response was immediate and unyielding, her words a declaration of her unwavering commitment. "Absolutely."
(THE FINAL BOSS AS ARRVIED ORARIO. ALL SHALL TREMBLE BEFORE HER MIGHT!)
Zald's voice held a note of resignation as he leaned back in his chair, eyeing Alfia with a hint of wry amusement. He had learned that when Alfia set her mind to something, it was nigh impossible to deter her. With a small, knowing smile, he spoke, "Good, because I wouldn't be able to stop you anyway. I have a feeling he's going to be very popular with the women in the city."
Alfia, her eyes still smoldering with determination, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, that is true. He did make a pretty good impression on the guild. We can set all of that aside for the future. We still don't even know how they are connected totally. We'll have to keep an eye on him."
Zald chuckled again, a deep, rumbling sound that filled the room with a sense of camaraderie. "Hahaha. True, but a great man must have a great appetite. Bell might be the one chasing girls."
Alfia's gaze softened, her heterochronic eyes momentarily revealing a touch of fondness. Her voice, however, remained unwavering in its resolve. "While I agree with that sentiment, that does not mean I will allow just any love-starved hyena to be near my nephew. If Bell is truly set on his path, then he aims to be the greatest man ever. So I expect women to flock to him. However, they will have to prove themselves to me first."
Erebus, his gaze steady as he addressed the important matter at hand. "Okay. Okay. Moving on. We had a lot of paperwork to fill out and need to set up a place for our familia."
Zald, the more level-headed and resourceful of the three, nodded in response. "Right. I'll get right on that. Where are you thinking of settling down? Anywhere specific?"
Erebus, always a step ahead, interjected with a hint of smug satisfaction. "Ah, leave that to me. I have already found the perfect location, and with the initial funds Alfia got, I hired the Gobinu's familia to start building it already. They said it should take a week for everything to be done."
Erebus's thoughtful expression revealed his calculated mind at work. "Hmm. We could use the house we are residing in temporarily. Though I have a feeling that we might have to find something a bit bigger soon. I also have the perfect location. So, I will look into seeing if there is an available location near it."
Zald, pragmatic as always, offered his perspective, a reassuring presence in the planning process. "Well, it's a start."
Erebus's voice was firm, the determination in his words carrying the weight of their shared goal. "It will do until we can get settled and established. Then we can move to a better home."
And so the rise of a new legend begin.
