Intertwined Fates
Chapter 1 - Epyon Cranel
I do not own this
Omori Fujino does
A single person was standing on the edge of a mountaintop watching the sunset out on the horizon, patiently waiting for someone to arrive. The person was a handsome middle-aged-looking man, who looked to be in great health. For the past 14 years, he has been raising a child that was entrusted to him by the boy's mother before she died. The reason this mighty being decided to honor her wish was because he has a very good relationship with the boy's father they used to go together peeping on women whenever there was a chance. The man was just a supporter and was very cowardly but he didn't mind since they had a lot of things in common.
He was totally surprised that he was able to get a beautiful girlfriend and get her pregnant. He wanted to marry her because deep in his heart he would never be able to have a woman like that ever in his life again. But there were two big problems, one the beautiful girl was from the Hera Familia, and two she was the younger sister of their most powerful Familia member. Who would surely want to see him dead, fortunately for him he would have been dead if it wasn't for the war that broke out, saving his life at the time. Eventually, the girl gave birth to a white-haired, red-eye healthy baby boy and he was named Bell Cranel.
At the same time, Bell's father found out that he had a younger half-brother, his name was Epyon Cranel. He was 7 years old before moving away with his mother back to the Far East. The Cranel brothers only met once, that was the one time Zeus laid his eyes on Epyon and saw right away the potential the boy was going to have. Seeing how fate at the time was favoring both children, Zeus secretly added Epyon to his Familia and hoped for the child to grow stronger on his own. Zeus visited Epyon from time to time to check on his progression but found out that the boy's mother passed away as he fought to stay alive.
He made contact with him and told him to try to become the strongest warrior, and if he wanted to develop more skills and abilities he should come and see him when he was ready. Zeus told him that he still had living Familia members since he was raising his nephew since all their Familia were deceased as well. Epyon wanted to be able to watch over his nephew and to see him grow up and maybe train him a little. He was curious about the new land he was going to be living in since it was very different from the Far East island. Now the time has come for Epyon to finally come back to his birthplace of Orario and to learn the new culture. Knowing that all the gods get bored and seek a way of entertainment, Zeus can come up with a well-crafted plan.
The world will once again witness the rebirth of a hero, but this time natural by Zeus like the heroes of old. While all eyes will be on the rise of the hero, Zeus will let loose on Orario, a realist who has seen the dark side of the world. The vigilante who doesn't care for morality or laws if it gets in the way of true justice is mostly known as an anti-hero. Zeus knew that these two children would change Orario either for the better or the worse. Then Zeus felt a presence coming from behind him slowly, but he already knew who it was. Since this was the person he was patiently waiting for this whole time he was watching the sunset go down the horizon.
"You have finally come to Epyon, I am so excited to see you once again. I hope you didn't have any trouble on your journey to Orario?" Zeus asked the young man as he gave him a good look to appraise him.
"It's good to see you once again, old man. How long has it been since you last went to the Far East around 5 years?" Epyon said as he walked to the edge of the cliff and looked at the horizon.
"I would say you're right, it has been 5 years since I last saw you and updated your falna. I would have to say I was surprised that you were able to reach level 6 back then so quickly. I was so proud of you back then that I wanted you to come back to Orario right away." Zeus commented recalling the last time he had seen the boy as he made time to to hang out with him.
"Geez old man, stop it. It's disgusting having a male god fawn all over me. I don't even want to imagine if anyone saw this scene and got the wrong idea. So can we please update my falna I'm curious to see how much stronger I have become?" Epyon replied knowing he was acting cheeky with his god, who only rolled his eyes at him for his impertinence.
"Hahaha it's kinda refreshing having a mortal insult me, but since I'm the one to bless you with your falna and put you under my Familia protection I'll let it slide. So take your shirt off so I'm able to update your status." Zeus asked the young man, as he silently obeyed his command.
When Zeus placed his hands on Epyon's back and began the process, a smile slowly appeared on the old god's face. Ever since he met the boy he knew he would become something special, never in his wildest dream did he expect to ever see another level 7 and one so young. Many adventurers would sell their soul to a demon, maybe even a devil to have that type of power at such a young age, if they had the ambition they could try to get control of Orario and fight the other Familia's.
Name: Epyon Cranel
Age: 17
Level: 7
Basic Abilities:
Strength: 771-B
Endurance: 807- A
Dexterity: 827- A
Agility: 850- A
Magic: 701- B
Development Abilities:
Strength: 701- B
Endurance: 780-B
Dexterity: 790-B
Agility: 811-A
Magic: 615-C
Acrobatic: A
Afterimage: B
Assassin: A
Abnormal Resistance: A
Magic:
Black lightning strike
Accersis Imbrem
Skills:
Tempus Frigidus
Shadow Clones
Hiraishin
"Epyon it seems like you leveled up and you got a whole lot stronger than the last time we updated your falna," Zeus stated as he handed over the paper to the young man.
"I see that all my blood, sweat, and tears didn't go to waste since I'm still weak compared to some of the people I know from my homeland. I was barely able to save people whenever there were monster attacks. while I was protecting the weak. It was a real struggle to survive after my mother passed away since she was from a very special clan. I learned the ugly truth about the world, at least the world in the Far East is not as kind as they make it seem. I joined my mother's clan and became a shinobi. I was extremely good at my job by just using my technique without using any of the falna you blessed me with." Epyon paused as he gathered his thoughts before he continued to speak once again.
When I got your letter I decided to leave the island to be able to meet my nephew once again. I ended up setting up one I didn't like, by faking my murder and erasing all traces of myself at the same time that person died. I was able to make my escape from the island and make it to Orario." Epyon finished as he continued to gaze at the horizon with his Familia head
"I could only speculate but your whole life experiences must have helped you develop your foundation in your core. And because you only were using your only strength and techniques it helped to level up. You should be proud of yourself for such an achievement. And that is not even counting your training. You have really become a beast on the battlefield." Zeus said as he gave a hearty laugh, trying to imagine such a scene in Orario breaking common sense.
"Yes I did, it got to the point where I had to learn different techniques to be able to kill my target. It started to become very instinctual. It kinda scares the crap out of me. I was becoming a killing machine."Epyon said as he handed back the paper to Zeus, then he pulled out another one, put them together, and handed it back to Epyon he began to speak once again.
"Epyon I won't lie to you, so I will be honest. Orario is not as honest as people make it seem. There are gods, there are all sorts of people, and monsters from the dungeon to kill you, I'm sure the same is happening over in the Far East, but the difference is all the gods from the Far East listen to the all-divine one, Amaterasu. And what makes the island so special is the unity at the top the only, downside to the island is that they are isolated and they are not able to feed and protect the lower class. That is because the adults either get killed by their fellow people for whatever reason like currency, food, or a lover all because of a whim of the person. And that does not include all the monsters and Yukai that roamed the island, why do you think there are so many orphans?" Zeus paused to let his words sink in before he continued to speak.
"But in Orario the gods and the adventures might not be united or even care for the loss of lives as long as they can make some currency that is all that matters here. And since there is only one dungeon in the world there is always a chance to become wealthy and not be poor and homeless." Zeus told Epyon so he could realize that there was a difference between the two places, it was a real eye-opener for him.
"I see, old man, I guess I'm still too naive living in this world to even with all this power I wield. I'm still helpless in a way not understanding the way of life we live in. So tell me more about Bell, and what kind of boy is he?" Epyon asked Zeus to get to the point of all these talks to hear about his nephew.
"Epyon, it is very important to me for you to watch over Bell, and gather all necessary information on the players working behind the scenes. He is your nephew and is going to need all the help he can get to survive if anyone finds out. Remember this is a very dangerous situation you both are in. If anyone not trustworthy finds out both of you are either related or in association with my Familia or Hera's they might just eliminate you both, since you would pose a danger to the strongest Familia's."
"Now I need to take back my blessing, so you can join a new Familia. I'll let you come up with a plan, and decide how to shape the future for Bell. While he will be the light that shines upon the people, you will be the darkness to get rid of the evil that lurks in the shadows. You will be the antihero of the Labyrinth City Orario, killing off whoever shows malice towards you and your loved ones. Don't forget to find love as well. Boy life is too short, it will ease the pain in your heart from the sense of loss." Zeus told Epyon as he nodded in understanding everything he was being told.
Once Zeus finished giving his sermon to the young man, he began the process to remove his blessing from Epyon, it took a little longer than 5 minutes. When the process was over Epyon got off the ground and began to check himself over, once he was satisfied. He felt a change in his power but it was nothing for him to be concerned about because he felt he was still strong enough to battle anyone. He understood that he needed to join another Familia so he would be closer to his nephew Bell.
"Old man, what Familia would you advise for Bell to join?" Epyon asked to hear his response.
"Epyon, first it would have to be a small Familia with no more than eight members or less. As for the Familia, I would recommend, Hestia, Miach, and Takemikazuchi. Hestia is my sister and one of a few women I could confidently say she is one of the most honest goddesses, I could definitely say Bell would benefit more from her than anyone else. She doesn't have a place to live or a Familia but I'm sure you would be able to help since she has a lot of odd jobs. Miach has a small pharmacy shop where he lives. He has one member who is a chienthrope who has a prosthetic arm, that is the reason they are in debt. Their main occupation is Medicinal medicine."
"Takemikazuchi is a god from the Far East, something I know for a fact you heard of while you were living there. He is considered a lower god, and not one of high importance since the main gods and goddesses from the Shinto religion are absolute hierarchy. I'll tell you what I know, he is a sword god and has extensive knowledge of war, martial arts, and weapons he is also the god of thunder. He has a small group of four people, one guy, and three girls, all of them are from the Far East as well. They are living temporarily in a small townhouse trying to survive while trying to make money to send back to the Far East. Now the rest is for you to choose since I gave you enough information." Zeus finished explaining everything to the young man, so he could make the best possible choice.
"Thanks, old man, I think it would be best for him to join Hestia since I'm sure she would appreciate this gesture. I'll join Takemikazuchi Familia where I'll fit best with my fellow. I would like to learn their sword and hand-to-hand combat style. That would be the perfect Familia to develop Bell's fighting style. Plus having other people around his age might help him develop faster. So how are we supposed to stay in contact with you old man?" Epyon asked, hoping that it wouldn't be the person he had in mind.
"I have a contract with Hermès if you need to reach me, take this special bell if you need to summon him. And please don't kill him, he is much needed by the gods residing here. If by any chance he does something that puts Bell in danger then do what must be done." Zeus told him, hoping that it would pacify him.
"So when are you going to fake your death and send him to Orario? And what type of story are you going to tell him?" Epyon asked, feeling a little curious.
"Hahaha, I'll be sending him in two weeks. This should be enough time for you to reach Orario, and to prepare everything before Bell gets there. As for the story I'm going to tell him, his uncle has barely come back from the Far East where he has been staying since his mother took him with her. Not long ago he found out about your existence, so he has been looking for him ever since. The rest would be up to you to guide him toward his dream." Zeus said as he brought out a sword from thin air a bag full of vals and another one full of monster cores.
"Epyon, this right here is the last reminder of Bell's father, please make sure to train him well. And please try to make sure he doesn't lose the sword, it would be a tragedy if he were to. Also, I have a few items that will come out in handy, so don't worry I haven't forgotten about you." Zeus said as a black ring appeared on the palm of his hand as he continued to speak.
"This will be useful for you in the future to help you and Bell, this is an infinite storage ring. It is pretty self-explanatory there is no need for explanation, but don't lose it otherwise you will not get another one think of it as an inheritance." Zeus said as he handed it over to the young man and placed it on his right-hand ring finger.
"Thanks, old man, I have to say this is going to be extremely handy for our future, so what is the next item you are going to show me," Epyon said as he waited for Zeus to continue.
"This right here is a special cloak that has the power of invisibility and a special skill called silence. Everything five feet from you becomes silent, only a very few with a highly perceived person can tell if something is wrong. I'm sure you could find many uses for it, it is the ultimate spy cloak." Zeus said as he gave a hardy laugh, and Epyon rolled his eyes.
"This right here is a necklace I got from the Far East. It has five magatamas of different colors. They are made of gemstones with some rune scripts on them with different abilities. The first ability was a Soul Concealment Amulet that would block anyone with divine eyes. Some gods tend to do this whenever they are bored and are looking to recruit individuals. The second special ability is to conceal the presence of the wearer, around five hundred yards. The third and final ability reflection barrier would give you enough time to dodge. But don't get carried away by thinking having the reflection barrier will block magic attacks is meant to give extra time to dodge. So never let your guard down for any circumstances, since your life won't be your own." Zeus said as he handed over a necklace with the amulet to Epyon.
"Wow, this necklace and amulet look very impressive, thanks again," Epyon said as he put it on since it reminded him of the Far East.
"I know Epyon you just came from the Far East, but I'm sure the next item you will appreciate. I had these items for a long time, I won them in a bet with my acquaintance." Zeus said as two swords appeared in his hands as he continued to speak.
"These were some of the most terrifying swords he had ever created. The first sword is a katana, and it is called Mugetsu. It is an anti-magic sword. It can nullify magic, the second ability is to create an anti-magic zone hundred feet perimeter. It is a very useful sword with the right technique to make it fight a magic swordsman the most dreadful. The second sword is a wakizashi, which is called Kyūketsu, its special ability is to absorb the blood of any person, animal, or monster the blade cuts. The second ability is to heal and restore stamina to the wielder, oh before I forget the sword is a sensation, it might have the ability to gain more skills." Zeus said as he handed him the swords Epyon was speechless.
"I will treasure them for the rest of my life." Epyon, filled with emotion, gave a strong hug to Zeus for the first time since he was a little kid.
Zeus was taken by surprise at the unexpected hug the young man gave him. Even though Zeus was a womanizer he really did care for all the kids he took under his wing. And he would lie about him having favorites, yes he has his favorite but what gods didn't when they had so many? Zeus loved all his kids who became Heroes in the past, it was always a pleasure to watch them make a name for themselves. While showing their sense of justice to protect all living beings. But what is a world without a vigilante to serve true justice, to kill anyone who has committed a crime, or is connected to one in any way, shape, or form? And this is what the anti-hero brings to the picture, is he friend or foe no one knows. But one thing is certain, a mess with his Familia and certain death will follow. Zeus enjoyed watching the ones that were anti-heroes since they seemed to be more exciting and unpredictable to watch. That way most of the gods are always looking for entertainment in their life.
By sending both kids to Orario, straight to the lion's den, they are surely going to bring some sort of entertainment for a long while." He thought to himself as Zeus spoke once again.
"You should get going. I need to make preparations to hide by faking my death from Hera. That is my number one priority, I might just visit the Far East for a while since it's been over a millennium. It's going to be interesting to catch up with my old friends." Zeus said as he slowly turned around and walked away waving goodbye to the cheeky brat.
Epyon quickly left right afterward to scout out Orario to identify which of the Familia's are trash and deserve to be eliminated. Might as well find a secret home where he would be able to stay whenever he assassinates someone. Little did Epyon know that he was going to have an encounter with a beautiful girl as he played the hero by accident. He would later meet each of the gods that had a high prospect of him and Bell joining their Familia. But the one he wanted to help was Zeus's sister Hestia the Loli goddess. Since she had no home, and no Familia members it was truly a shame that none of her actual family tried to help her out. But he has a good idea on how to have her gain followers, she would just have to listen to the idea. Knowing that she is naturally good, he would be able to get along with her. Lucky for him it looked like there was going to be a full moon, as he sped off at full speed to get to Orario by nightfall.
A/N: Let's see where should I start I took down the story and I had to rewrite it. I began to write this story on a whim since I got inspiration from watching season 4. And while I was at work I listened to Ventanus' story Change of Fate. I really enjoyed the story so I chose to do one of my own. So I created an OC as Bell's uncle, he will be overpowered in a way like Alfia, his aunt. And yes I'm using some Naruto jutsu names but the applications might be a little different. The shadow clone for example will be shadows with martial arts abilities and sword skills. The Hiraishin going to be used for the shuriken and runes as jumping points. And I'm placing them in the Takemikazuchi Familia since it will have somewhat of a Far East theme. Hope everyone enjoys the story. There will not be a schedule either since I'm working on multiple stories depending on if I catch writer's block. Bell might have a single lover or two I'm not sure yet depending on the flow of the story. He is too dense to have an actual harem. The OC definitely will have one but will be introduced at different times depending on the flow of the story.
Bell gets a chance to become an adventurer and to meet a lost family member. Fortunately for him his family members already had a plan, and a Familia in mind. Takemikazuchi Familia became the right fit for the young Bell since most of the members were around the same age. Follow the adventures of the Cranels as a series of unfortunate events begin to unfold. Reviews would be appreciated [Intertwined Fate]