Only minor edits in the story Author's Notes below. No new content.
Author's notes:
Alright SO i have updated this chapter with a bunch of Character reactions to the return of Zald And Alfia. Also, I know have changed Loki and Finn's personalities. I think I made it fairly clear in the 1st chapter but neither Loki nor Finn are going to be friendly with Bell or His Familia. This does not mean that every member is going to dislike him. As for wight now it is just Finn and Loki that
So first an apology. I will be referencing a coat that partly shields Bell from divine sight. This is not in the 1st chapter. It will be added in during the rewrite I have planned already. As such the reference to the coat will be included in the rewrite.
It will be a parting gift from Hera for Bell. It will work to dim the light of Bell's soul. Hera will have sensed that Bell is special and will want to shield him.
The reason for this is I want to take my time and build up Freya's obsession with Bell. So just for now know that what this coat does will be explained more thoroughly after the rewrite. It basically dims the shine of a Bell's soul shielding it from a deity's gaze at a distance.
Morning After Moving into Midnight Garden IS now going to be the basis for Chapter 3. As I just keep coming up with ideas to add to it. So I will be using that as starting point for the next chapter. I decided to upload what I had rather then try to include another scenario
{{Story Note: Given that I have aged bell, I will age Ais 7 years putting her at 14. The way I am doing this is that whatever happened to her in cannon happened when she was 14 rather than the cannon age of 7ish. Otherwise the age gap between her and Bell would be too much. She will have been an adventurer for 6 months.}}
So I touched on a lot of characters this chapter. I would appreciate feedback on how I did.
Does the story flow well? What do you think if the characters?
Most importantly does the Timeline I set up make sense?
Top Floor of Babel (Freya's thoughts. Evening of the same day. After recognizing Zald and Alfia at the Guild.
In the resplendent chambers in the top floor of Babel, the sultry tones of Freya's voice resonated, her internal monologue a symphony of intrigue and contemplation.
"I see they have returned, though I thought we had dealt with all the remnants of Zeus and THAT woman. While this is disappointing, there is something that I find interesting." Freya began, silken voice echoed through the room
"I can barely perceive the presence of the soul in this child," Freya mused, her thoughts delving into the ethereal essence of the mysterious child who had walked into the Guild earlier today
"Either he is very sickly, or his soul is being protected from divine sight. Given who he was with a sickness could explain it." Freya's pondered "I wonder which it is. THAT woman is the only one that could pull off something like that. Interesting that she would leave a child that needed a coat like that for protection. Why would she leave him behind if he needed a cloak? The only decent quality of THAT woman was her ability to judge mortal souls. "
"A curiosity indeed," Freya concluded, her voice carrying a note of anticipation.
"Perhaps this will make for an interesting diversion." Freya's final declaration hung in the air, a promise of unfolding mysteries and machinations '
In the grandeur of Freya's private domain, she summoned her loyal Captain, Ottarl, seeking insights into the enigmatic boy she had seen.
"Ottar, what have you found out about this boy?" The goddess's voice echoed through the opulent chamber, laden with curiosity and a hint of amusement.
"His name is Bell Cranel, and he is the current Captain of the newly formed Erebus Familia. It consists of three members, Bell Cranel, Zald, and Alfia. In addition, he is apparently the nephew of Alfia," Ottarl responds, his voice steady and unwavering.
"Nephew, is it? I see. I wonder if he will have her talent. Her disease?" Freya's question hung in the air
"Unknown, but at a glance, he appears healthy," Ottarl responded
"I see. This is potentially interesting. I will keep an eye on this Bell Cranel," Freya declares, her words hinting at the unpredictable currents of divine fascination.
"It is possible he will disappoint me, but I shall simply watch from here. It is a most intriguing thing to occur." Freya murmurs, her inner thoughts and feelings unveiled in a whisper of anticipation.
Ouranos's Throne (Evening of the same day as when Zald and Alfia registered at the Guild.)
Upon the throne of Ouranos, the air was heavy with the weight of divine matters as Fels approached, bearing news that stirred the god's interest.
"Lord Ouranos, I have news for you," Fels intones
"What is it?" Ouranos, the god presiding over the Dungeon, inquired, his voice echoing in the room
"Alfia and Zard have returned to the city with a new god," Fels reported
"I see. Who is it?" Ouranos questioned further
"The god's name is Erebus, God of Darkness," Fels responded
"I see... Another primordial god has descended," Ouranos mused
"Yes," Fels confirmed
"Very well, for now, we will watch and hope for the best. The return of Zard and Alfia is likely to quiet Evilus, at least temporarily," Ouranos decreed, the divine authority in his voice apparent
"That is true, but I have no report of them returning to the city from the Ganesha familia. In addition, they have chosen a boy by the name of Bell Cranel as Captain, not Zald or Alfia. Also of note, the boy is Alfia's nephew," Fels finished
"There are many ways to enter the city. It is likely that they will not be returning to the Dungeon for a while. Given their conditions, it is likely that they do not wish to exacerbate them," Ouranos observed. "Does the boy have Alfia's illness?"
"True. It does not appear so. He looks like a healthy boy," Fels confirmed
"Good. We will watch and see if he has inherited Alfia's talent," Ouranos concludes, the rhythmic flow of the dialogue and inner musings creating a seamless progression within the celestial halls.
"Understood," Fels responded before fading back into the darkness of the chamber.
Loki Familia (Loki's Internal Monologue. Evening of the same day as when she saw Zald and Alfia at the Guild.)
"Gods damn it., Why did those people have to come back. DAMN IT" Loki seethed, the acrid taste of liquor burning down her throat, a futile attempt to drown the rising fury at the return of Alfia and Zald.
"This city belongs to Me and Freya now. Zeus and Hera were run out of the city."
"YET these two come back strutting around in like they FUCKING still OWN the place."
"Their era is fucking over. IT IS MY TIME NOW."
"I am the top dog now and I am not giving up my spot for a bunch of relics"
"Tch... here I was hoping both those shitty familias had been wiped out by the dragon."
"Why couldn't that dragon have done a better job?"
"Those two were both weakened after their fights with the Behemoth and Leviathan."
"So maybe they can be dealt with once Finn and them level up."
"That might be too risky though. We could wait for their diseases to progress enough that they can be easily eliminated."
"Then we deal with the brat captain."
"If they named that brat as captain, then those two must be conserving their strength."
"Not like the brat is going to be a threat or even catch up to my children anytime soon though."
"The mere thought of them continuing to be in the city pisses me off though."
"I really want them dead."
"Actually, I really just want every single reminder of Zeus or Hera gone."
"We might need to team up with that bimbo again. If we combine our familia's strength temporarily we can probably beat them."
"But the thought of working with her makes me want to vomit. tch."
"Well, whatever."
They will be dealt with eventually. I am sure Finn will think of something. He won't let them get in his way.
"All these aggravations mean I need to relax. I need to go find some boobs to feel up."
"Who should my target for today be? Aki seems to be coming along nicely. Maybe I will give her a good grope under the disguise of updating her status. She hasn't had one recently so that excuse should work. That sounds like a perfect plan."
Loki famila (Finn's Internal Monologue. Evening of the same day as when she saw Zald and Alfia at the Guild.)
"Loki damn it. Why did they have to come back now of all times?"
After all these years, I thought all the remnants of Zeus and Hera had been dealt with.
We have been taking care of them for years now.
How could we have missed these two?
Where have those two been hiding all this time?
If only the dragon could have dealt with them as well.
Seriously why couldn't the dragon at least have taken care of these two as well.
Why did it have to be those two that survived?
Seriously, when will people stop getting in my way.
I am trying to revive an entire race here.
Now what to do about them?
I know they were both weakened after their fight from the Great Quests.
Do we simply wait for them to die naturally?
No. They may be able to rebuild under the Erebus Familia.
I can't have that.
I cannot allow anything to threaten everything I have built.
I have worked too hard to let them interfere with my ambition now
If they are given enough time, they could build up enough support to challenge us.
Plus, there is always the threat that they could level up.
So, they will need to be dealt with sooner rather than later.
Given that they needed Bell Cranel as the Captain. They are probably conserving their strength.
Well. The first step would be leveling up and becoming level 6.
It will have to be after the three of us level up.
IF we team up with Freya, Ottarl will have to level up to Level 7.
If we do that then we can divide our forces and eliminate these two.
For outside the room Riveria's voice is heard: "Ais I have told you that it is dangerous in the city right now."
Tch.. Another problem getting in my way.
Seriously this girl is just too volatile.
All she needs to do is be a good little doll and follow orders
Then she can be useful to my ambition. That is all I need you for anyway. She isn't good enough for anything else.
Loki Familia Mansion (Ais and Riveria)
In the confines of the Twilight Mannor, Riveria stood facing Ais preparing to scold the girl for her actions.
"Ais, I have told you that it is dangerous in the city right now," Riveria scolded, her voice carrying the weight of experience.
Ais, her unwavering golden eyes, shot back, "I had to go into the Dungeon. I have to get stronger. Besides, you were the one that left. Where did you go anyway? You, Finn, Loki, and Gareth all took off."
Riveria sighed; "Be that as it may, you can't go into the Dungeon by yourself. It is too dangerous. And we had to investigate someone that returned from a long time away," she explained, her tone softening with an undercurrent of concern.
Ais, however, was relentless in her pursuit of answers, firing off questions; "Who were you investigating? Were they strong? Was that why the three of you went together?"
The intensity of Ais's inquiry did not escape Riveria's notice. She knew that revealing the details could be a dangerous gamble, especially considering Ais's current obsession with strength. To say that two of the greatest adventurers ever had returned would send the girl off in reckless charge. IF she found out that they fought the dragon, then; Riveria shuddered at the prospect of what would happen. Instead of answering; Riveria lightly bonked Ais on the head, halting the relentless stream of questions.
"Enough, Ais," Riveria chided gently, her touch a mix of reprimand and affection. Taking a deep breath, she prepared herself to answer Ais's barrage of inquiries. "You can go into the Dungeon, but make sure you go with someone from now on. Do you understand?"
Ais, though momentarily taken aback by the physical reprimand, nodded in reluctant agreement. The room settled into a contemplative silence, the weight of unspoken thoughts hanging between them.
As Riveria contemplated her next words before she spoke. Her jade eyes reflected memories as she revealed as spoke softly "Good. They were once members of a familia that resided in Orario for many years but no longer. One of them is a friend that I haven't seen in years. Or at least, I would like to be her friend again. Though many things have changed, I would like to catch up with her."
Riveria's voice hinted at a complex history, and the yearning for reconciliation. But she swiftly brought the focus back to the present, adding, "But none of that is relevant to you, Ais. You need to listen to me when I tell you something. It could have been dangerous for you out in the city alone. Promise me you will go with someone next time."
Ais responded with a curt acknowledgment, "Fine."
"Good. Now go clean up before dinner," Riveria ordered
As Ais begrudgingly complied, she began walking through the hallways when she came across a group of familia members speaking. Ais, on her way to clean up, unwittingly became an audience to the exchange between Dain and a few others.
"That's right, Zald and Alfia are back," Dain declared, his words a spark that ignited curiosity in the Ais.
A member, voicing the group's confusion, asked, "I thought the black dragon killed all the members of the Zeus and Hera familias."
A chill ran down Ais's spine at the mention of the black dragon, the echoes of her past reverberating in her mind.
"Welp, apparently not because I can guarantee you it was the one and only Zald and Alfia," Dain practically spat out the names, bitterness coloring his words.
"What are they doing in Orario? I thought the Zeus and Hera Familias were run out for their failure to complete the last great quest?" another member inquired, probing the wound of ancient failures.
"They were but Zald and Alfia returned with a new deity named Erebus. So, for now, we will watch and see what they do," Dain responded, his bitterness manifesting in the acidic tone of his voice.
As the group dispersed, Ais, now armed with newfound knowledge, continued her way to the bathroom. The setting, once steeped in a mundane routine, now held an undercurrent of intrigue. As Ais turned on the water in the bathroom shower Ais's thoughts raced out of control.
Ais's thoughts(Internal monologue)
Someone fought the dragon.
.
.
.
I have to find them.
.
.
.
They might know about Mama
.
.
.
I have to find its weakness.
.
.
.
.
I have
to TAKE
MAMA back.
.
.
.
.
.
I
HAVE
TO
KILL
IT.
The Temporary home of the Erebus Familia while Midnight Garden is being constructed[Day After registering at the Guild] (Discussion of How Bell meet Alise and Astraea.)
The morning sun cast a warm glow through the windows of their new home, illuminating the dining room where Bell, Erebus, Zald, and Alfia sat around a wooden table. The air was tinged with the scent of fresh paint, a testament to the recent move.
"So, Bell, how did you meet Alise and Astraea?" Erebus inquired, his voice carrying a subtle hint of curiosity.
Bell's response seemed to hang in the air, a palpable tension started settling over the room. His eyes darted around nervously, landing on Alfia, whose presence seemed to intensify with suspicion. He swallowed hard before attempting to speak, acutely aware of Alfia's gaze and the rhythmic tapping of her fingers on the table.
"Yes, Bell, how did you meet that little girl?" Alfia's tone cut through the air, her words dripping with an unspoken demand for the truth.
Bell hesitated, feeling the weight of Alfia's suspicion. "So, they were doing a patrol by our house on Daedalus Street when they heard me crying after Mom died," he began, choosing his words carefully. "It was late, and they went to check it out. That's when they found me. It was Alise and Ardee Varma of the Ganesha Familia found me. Alise refused to leave me alone and took me back to Stardust Garden. She persuaded Goddess Astraea that I couldn't be left alone, so they took me in. That's how I met them."
As Bell tried to leave, Alfia's stern voice halted him in his tracks. "BELL, sweetie, did something ELSE happen? Is there something Auntie should know about? Do I need to have a nice little chat with Alise and this Ardee?" Her narrowed eyes as they bore into him, demanding answers. Her eyes indicated that silence wasn't an option.
Bell froze in place, the weight of Alfia's scrutiny bearing down on him like an oppressive force. The atmosphere of the room seemed to tighten around him as he carefully chose his words.
"NOPE. NOTHING you need to worry about, Auntie," Bell responded, his voice betraying a nervous undercurrent, as his words attempted to quell the storm brewing in Alfia's narrowed eyes.
"Alfia, Bell is telling the truth. Besides, I highly doubt a follower of Astraea or Ganesha would do anything inappropriate," Erebus interjected, his voice carrying a reassuring tone.
"Fine, but I still don't like how friendly that hyena was with Bell," Alfia retorted, her words sharp and laced with a protective edge.
"Auntie, please, Alise is my friend. Please try to get along with her," Bell pleaded as he pouted at Alfia, a tactic that Bell had found usually softened her resolve. Alfia, in turn, flushed and began fidgeting, her stern demeanor faltering in the face of Bell's pouting face.
"Fine, Bell. I promise to be nice. I promise to give her a fair chance," Alfia responded, her words a reluctant surrender to Bell's plea. The men in the room exhaled a collective breath, the tension dissolved.
Meanwhile, Zard and Erebus exchanged knowing glances, their thoughts dancing with mischief. "He is totally hiding something. Something that will set Alfia off. Also, since when is Alfia this much of a push-over?"
Alfia's head snapped around, her eyes narrowing in on the two men. "Are you two thinking something rude just now?"
"NOPE. Not at all," both men responded in unison, their synchronized denial barely concealing mischievous grins. Alfia continued to glare at them before turning away with a dismissive "uhmp. Very well."
Both Zard and Erebus sighed in relief, their internal thoughts echoing, "Fuck, that was close. That woman's intuition is terrifying."
Meanwhile, Bell had seized the opportunity to escape the room. As he walked away, he couldn't help but thank Erebus silently. "Thank Erebus that I got away from THAT TOPIC. Auntie would probably have blown up our house and everything around it BEFORE going on a rampage," Bell thought, shuddering at the mere prospect of his aunt's wrath if she were to learn about what happened the night he stayed at Stardust Garden.
Astraea Familia Living Room (Day After seeing Bell at the Guild)
The Astraea Familia living room buzzed as Goddess Astraea, Alise, Kaguya, Ryuu, and Lyra occupied the space, each bringing a distinct energy to the room. The atmosphere was warm, adorned with furnishings that exuded an air of comfort.
Ryuu couldn't hold back her curiosity. "Alise, I am curious. Why were you so insistent that that man stay with us?"
"Little Elf, that is obvious. The boy was cute. I bet Alise wanted to find out if he really was a rabbit," Kaguya chimed in, her mischievous smirk adding a touch of playfulness to the room. Her tongue darted out to lick her lips, emphasizing the suggestive nature of her words. "Least that's what I would have done."
"Kaguya, that's filthy!" Ryuu erupted, her outrage echoing through the room. She was about to launch into a full-blown rant when Lyra, the typical mediator of the group, interjected.
"Okay, okay. Simmer down, Lion," Lyra urged with a sigh, her eyes rolling at the predictable bickering between the two. "Kaguya is just trying to get a reaction out of you, which you fell for, hook, line, and sinker. I am sure Alise had a legitimate reason for it."
The room hushed as all eyes shifted to the Captain of the Familia and the goddess they followed.
"Oh, yeah, I did," Alise finally responded, her gaze meeting that of Goddess Astraea. The surprise flickered across the goddess's features, quickly replaced by a warm smile. It was a moment of silent communication between a goddess and her first child.
"So, before I met Mother Astraea, I lost my parents when I was young, like Bell too," Alise began, her voice carrying a weight of shared experiences: "I couldn't help but see myself in Bell with everything he had been through. So, unlike when I was young, I wanted someone to be there for Bell. I know it is selfish, but I am grateful that you all agreed to it so easily. Especially you, Lion. I know how stubborn you can be. It means a lot that you went along with my selfish request."
Alise's words hung in the air, a vulnerable confession that bared her soul to the family she had chosen.
Ryuu, responded tentatively, her trust in Alise evident. "It is fine, Alise. I trust you, so if you think that Bell can be trusted, I am willing to give him a chance." The subtle shift in Ryuu's demeanor spoke volumes about the bonds that tied the Familia together.
"Pft. No need to thank me. I only agreed to find out if he was a rabbit or not," Kaguya interjected with a mischievous grin, injecting a playful note into the serious conversation. Her words sparked a reaction from Ryuu, who couldn't help but react with an indignant yell.
"Kaguya!" Ryuu's protest reverberated through the room, a familiar refrain between the two.
"What? Just because you are a prude of an elf doesn't mean I have to be," Kaguya taunted, her tone a playful jab at Ryuu's more reserved nature.
"Here they go again," Lyra sighed, a wry smile playing on her lips as the familiar argument unfolded. The setting atmosphere shifted between camaraderie and light tension, creating a backdrop for the familial bonds on display.
Astraea looked on fondly at her two beloved daughters. Her gaze held a mixture of pride and affection, the silent observer of the intricate relationships blossoming within her chosen family.
Thoughts running through Alise's Head:
Amidst the bickering between Ryuu and Kaguya in the living room, Alise's thoughts whispered like a silent monologue echoing through her head.
"I am glad that we found Bell alright after he ran away. Big dummy for running away after he said all those things," she mused. The memories of her troubled past flitted through her mind, a collage of fragmented memories that fueled her desire to prevent others from going through what she did. As well what Bel had said to her that night.
"I was worried about him. I wanted someone to be there for him unlike when I lost my parents," Alise admitted to herself as her mind went through her memories.
"Still, I can't believe he said all those things. I wonder if he really meant them or if he was just being nice. "
A shadow danced across her thoughts, a premonition of the potential fallout. "Mother Astraea, if they ever find out what happened, then Kaguya will never let me hear the end of it. Plus, Lion might try to kill him think he was trying to do something perverted. I swear for being an elf her mind always jumps to the most perverted conclusions."
And then, an unexpected blush crept upon her cheeks as she thought of what Bell had said to her. Alise started blushing at the thought of what happened the night that Bell stayed over at Stardust Garden.
Goddess Astraea noticing Alise's blush: (Astraea's internal thoughts)
"Oh. My," Astraea mused internally, her eyes noticing Alise's flushed cheeks. "It looks like Alise is thinking about Bell again."
"She has been blushing an awful lot since meeting him," Astraea observed, a maternal acknowledgment of her daughter's potentially burgeoning feeling.
"Hehehe. Is my little girl about to grow up?" Astraea couldn't help but tease in her thoughts, a playful twinkle in her eyes.
"I am so happy for her. I want my daughters to be happy and Bell is a kind boy" Astraea admitted to herself.
"Ahhh. To think love would strike her now." Astraea's mused "Love truly is the most irrational and unexplainable thing in the world."
"Well, maybe it is too early, but I can tell there is a spark there, and I won't interfere with it if it ever ignites into a fire." Astraea's acceptance and restraint showcased her love for her children, a divine figure, who unlike some, recognized the autonomy of those under her care.
Time Skip 1 week to when Bell and everyone is moving into Midnight Garden.
The Traveler's Inn. (Hermes and Asfi) (The day that Bell and everyone moved into Midnight Garden.)
In the quiet confines of The Traveler's Inn, where shadows played upon the dimly lit walls, Hermes reclined with an air of nonchalance. Asfi, the vice-captain of the familia, approached with news of the latest events to transpire at the Guild while her God was away.
"Lord Hermes, I have news for you," Asfi began, her words cutting through the hushed atmosphere of their Familia's home.
"Ohh, what is it?" Hermes questioned, his tone laced with curiosity.
"Preator and Silence have returned to Orario with a new God," Asfi reported
"Oh… Well, that could be good. Two more level 7s should help stabilize the city. Who is the new god?" Hermes pondered aloud, his thoughts reaching into the strategic implications of the arrivals. The inner thoughts and feelings of the god of travelers unfolded subtly, revealing a mind always at work, even in seemingly casual moments.
"His name was Erebus, God of Darkness," Asfi responded as she, handed Hermes the Guild announcement:
THE Erebus FAMILIA REGISTERS IN ORARIO
Deity: Erebus, God of Darkness
The Erebus Familia: Exploration Type
Captain: Bell Cranel. Level 1
EXECUTIVE: Alfia, Silence/Incarnation of Talent, Level 7
EXECUTIVE: Zald, Predator, Level 7
"Errr… That could be something else… Erebus is in the city," Hermes stammered nervously.
"Why is that? Could that be bad, Lord Hermes?!" Asfi's inquiry, sharp and suspicious, cut through the silence that followed.
Hermes hesitated, his mind dancing on the edge of divulging more than he intended. "Err. Well, our realms are close in Tekai. So, I have met him more than most. I am somewhat acquainted with his disposition," Hermes confessed, his unease woven into the cadence of his voice.
"While he is certainly not an evil god, presa; he is rather ruthless even among deities and not someone to be crossed lightly. Anyone that did well. Let's just say it didn't end well for them," Hermes continued, his monologue offering a glimpse into the complexities of divine interactions.
"Though he never seemed really interested in descending. Now if it was his divine wife that descended, that would be another matter. SHE is TERRIFYING," Hermes admitted, a shudder punctuating his words as a chill ran up his spine at the mere thought of Erebus's divine wife.
"Since he announced himself like this, I don't think he will be doing anything, but I can't be sure," Hermes concluded, his uncertainty casting a shadow over the room.
"Now, Asfi, why is the boy Captain of the familia and not Silence or Predator?" Hermes redirected the conversation.
"Ahh, I don't know. But that is the official guild announcement. Maybe Predator and Silence aren't returning to being adventurers? Or maybe they only plan on training him? The rumor mill is that the boy is Alfia's nephew," Asfi disclosed, her words carrying the weight of uncertainty.
"I see, Alfia's nephew. If I correctly remember, Alfia's sister was Meteria. I only met her on rare occasions when I had business with Hera. She was Hera's favored daughter after all and was kept very well guarded," Hermes mused, as he shifted through his memories.
"I wonder if the boy inherited Alfia's talent at all. This could be very interesting. I will have to pay Erebus a visit soon. Does he have a place yet?" Hermes contemplated his thoughts a calculated dance of strategy and curiosity as his mind worked to unfold the mysteries.
"Yes, he does. The familia resides at the Midnight Garden, which is directly across from the Astraea Familia's Stardust Garden. Also, rumor was that the captain of the Astraea Familia was friendly with Bell when they registered in the Guild," Asfi responded,
"Alise is friendly with Bell, and Erebus chose the location directly across from the Astraea familia? Welp, this just gets more and more interesting. The only way to figure this out is to go and talk to them directly," Hermes declared, his eagerness evident in the rhythm of his words.
"Please don't go messing with them," Asfi pleaded, her voice tinged with a hint of worry as she recalled all the times her God's schemes caused her a headache.
"Lol. Asfi, no need to worry about that. I am not foolish enough to risk provoking Alfia. That woman scares me. Her fists are likely to fly first before she speaks," Hermes responded
Meanwhile the thoughts start to run through Hermes' mind:
"Hmph. Erebus wasn't really interested in the mortal realm before. What could possibly have changed?"
"I believe that last time we met was when Zeus, me, and him tried to peep on Artemis and Astraea bathing, maybe?" Hermes reflected, his inner thoughts and feelings weaving a narrative thread back in time.
"Hehe, though we failed, it was rather fun."
"I think that was right before the first deities like Zeus descended." Hermes' mused reaching back into the distant past.
"Ah. Well, anyways, I will just have to stop by tomorrow." Hermes' decision echoed with a sense of resolve "That will honestly be the only way to figure him out."
Moving Into Midnight Garden (This is the exact same as the original. No need to reread.)
"This is the Midnight Garden," Erebus declared, his voice carrying a tone of mystery and allure. Bell's eyes scanned the imposing mansion before him, a structure that seemed to contain the darkest essence of the night itself. The mansion, painted in a striking combination of black and red, dominated the southwestern landscape of Orario. What granted it even greater contrast was the mansion directly across from it.
As Bell approached, the fragrant breeze carried the delicate perfume of the roses, stirring emotions both primal and refined. The mansion and its garden stood as guardians of passion and allure, inviting all into a realm where the boundaries between desire and reality blurred.
A wrought iron fence, a sentinel of elegance and mystery, embraced the sprawling estate. Its intricate design hinted at a bygone era, each curl and twist a testament to craftsmanship long celebrated. The dark metal, painted in a rich, glossy black complemented by a radiant crimson accent, stood in stark contrast to the vivid colors that it harbored within.
Along the fence's length, a mesmerizing tapestry unfolded. Black Baccara Roses, with folds of deep-red petals tinged with an almost-black dusty hue, climbed the wrought iron like passionate lovers ascending to an intimate rendezvous. Their fragrance, a heady blend of sweetness and darkness, permeated the air, wrapping the estate in a cloak of sensuality.
The Black Beauty Gladiolus iris, acted as towering sentinels of burgundy and black, stood tall and proud. Prominent central flower spikes, reaching up to Erebus's chest, declared their presence as true showstoppers. In the moonlight, the gladioli seemed to absorb the shadows, becoming ethereal silhouettes against the dark canvas of the night.
Amidst the sea of roses and gladioli, the Black Magic Roses added a touch of enchantment. Their classic deep-red petals, reminiscent of traditional roses, bore the illusion of being dipped in a pot of translucent black ink. As they unfurled in the cool night breeze, the effect was nothing short of magical – a bewitching dance of crimson and onyx, a celebration of nature's artistry.
The moonlight cascaded gracefully upon the scene, a silver cascade that turned the garden into a dreamscape. It painted the petals of the Black Magic Roses with a muted glow, transforming the crimson into a velvety wine-red and the onyx into a shimmering silver. The shadows played hide-and-seek, creating an ever-shifting chiaroscuro beneath the boughs of ancient oaks and along the cobbled pathways.
As the garden unfolded before him, a nocturnal oasis adorned with strategically placed lamps. Roses, Black Baccara and Black Magic bloomed, their petals glistening in the soft glow. The large fountain, a masterpiece in this botanical symphony, displayed an enchanting cascade of water, rhythmic and hypnotic. Shadows, cast by the interplay of light and water, danced upon pillars that surrounded the garden, creating an otherworldly tableau.
Hushed wonder enveloped the Midnight Garden, a symphony of nature and artistry that reached out and captivated the senses. Bell felt the weight of the mansion's beauty, the secrets it held hidden behind the veils of moonlit beauty and shadowy elegance. The air thickened with anticipation as he prepared to step into a world where reality and fantasy intertwined, guided by the enigmatic allure of his would-be home.
As the grand mansion stood before him at the heart of the expansive lot, it cast a majestic presence that commanded attention. Its walls, adorned with a multitude of windows, weren't mere openings but canvases for the artistry of stained glass. Scenes of moonlit landscapes and celestial bodies adorned these windows, creating an ethereal tapestry that ensnared the gaze of any onlooker.
A masterpiece by the standards of the Goibniu Familia, the mansion's exterior was a harmonious symphony of red and black hues playing against each other. The stained glass, a medium of divine craftsmanship, painted the walls with shifting patterns of light and shadow, making the entire structure appear alive under the moon's watchful eye.
Generously scattered across the mansion's surface, the windows acted as silent observers, each framing a different piece of art. Together, they told a silent story of a world bathed in moonlight, with dark skies adorned by stars forming constellations unknown to mortal eyes. These celestial storytellers whispered tales of cosmic mysteries, weaving a narrative that transcended the boundaries of the earthly realm.
Each stained-glass painting, a testament to unparalleled artistry, depicted landscapes bathed in the ethereal glow of moonlight or skies ablaze with stars. These scenes formed constellations that carried with them the weight of heroes, gods, and destiny. The glass, a kaleidoscope of colors, spilled their hues into the night, casting an otherworldly ambience that draped the mansion in an aura of enchantment.
The marriage of architecture and nature was a dance of opulence and mystery, where shadows played the role of secret keepers, whispering their ancient truths to those who dared to listen. The stained glass, with its intricate tales woven into the fabric of the mansion, echoed the deep hues of the garden below, creating a seamless connection between the living artistry outdoors and the captivating narratives within.
The night seemed to embrace the estate, its rhythmic hum blending with the rustle of leaves and the occasional creak of the wrought iron fence. As if it were a living entity in its own right, the property pulsed with an energy that mirrored the heartbeat of the nocturnal symphony. Bell stood at the precipice of the estate, caught in the magnetic pull of the scene unfolding, a prelude to the mysteries that awaited within the embrace of the Midnight Garden.
The sound of the night was punctuated by the occasional rustle of leaves, the distant murmur of a fountain, and the soft sighs of a gentle breeze. Each moment seemed suspended in time, as if the universe itself held its breath, waiting for something extraordinary to unfold.
As the moonlight continued its tender caress, it revealed the intricate details of the mansion's architecture – the ornate moldings, the sweeping staircases, and the subtle play of light and shadow in every corner. The grandeur of the setting mirrored the depth of emotions that lingered, unspoken, in the spaces between.
At the carved oak door entryway, Bell hesitated. As he crossed the mansion's threshold, a realm of elegance and opulence unveiled itself. Light fixtures adorned each window, their soft white glow casting a gentle illumination throughout the rooms. The play of light against the stained glass became a dance of colors, a kaleidoscope that heightened the magical ambiance of the Midnight Garden.
Amidst this ambiance, Alfia's voice broke the silence. "You had to choose someplace poetically, didn't you?" she remarked with a sigh, her tone reflecting a mix of amusement and understanding as she gazed to the mansion across the street.
Erebus smiled in response, a subtle acknowledgment of the poetic choice he had made for their new home. Meanwhile, Bell's gaze shifted across the street to the Astraea Familia's Stardust Garden, a contrast of white and silver flowers against the ruby and onyx hues of his newfound sanctuary. Bell couldn't help smiling hearing his own words come back so easily after being told what he'd just seen again coming true. His smile grew even bigger thinking how surprised they would all be when they found out. Though Alise will probably get pout since she hadn't seen him in a week now.
"I should probably get them an Apology gift for making them worry. I will take some of the flowers from the garden." Bell
His mother's words echoed in his mind as he surveyed the opposing gardens of white and silver. "They are kind, but the world isn't. It will snuff them out." Determination flickered in Bell's eyes as he spoke, addressing his mother's memory in his thoughts. "I won't let that happen. I want to restore the lost hope. If they are the light, then I will be the darkness. I will fulfill your wish, Mama. I won't let THEM claim Glory. I will be the one to complete the final task of Zeus and Hera."
As his gaze returned to the mansion, Bell's inner thoughts resonated with purpose. 'This is where my legend begins.' The declaration hung in the air, a vow woven into the very fabric of the Midnight Garden, where shadows whispered secrets and the night held the promise of both challenge and triumph.
Astraea Familia Home (The girl's and Astraea noticing that their new neighbors have finally moved in.)
Alise immersed herself in the embrace of a well-worn novel, the soft creak of the sofa a gentle companion to the rustle of pages. The ambiance of her quiet reading oasis shifted abruptly when a flicker of movement danced across the street, drawing her attention away from the printed world. Lyra, ever vigilant, shattered the tranquil cocoon with her proclamation.
"Hey everyone, it looks like our new neighbors have moved. I guess Goibniu finished earlier today," Lyra announced, her voice carrying a hint of excitement as she informed Kaguya and Alice, the trio now engaged in their own curiosity.
'Hmmmm...I wonder who would move there?' Alise mused internally, her eyes narrowing as she observed the quartet of figures unfolding on the road, a tableau of mystery and anticipation.
"GODDESS! Our new neighbors have moved in!" Kaguya's cried and set the entire familia into motion.
'And here comes the stampede,' Alise thought, a wry smile playing on her lips as the other members rushed into the room. The energy in the air crackled with curiosity.
"Are they cute?! Can I go meet them?" Iska questions, a blend of eagerness and playful banter, hung in the air.
"No, you're a pervert!" Neze responded, her retort laced with teasing reproach.
"I am not a pervert. I am an Amazon," Iska declared, her defense carrying a note of wounded pride.
"You are a pervert even for an Amazon," Neze countered, their banter echoing through the room in a familiar rhythm.
"You guys are loud! SHUT UP!" Kaguya's authoritative voice sliced through the rising clamor, a command that reverberated through the hall and brought an abrupt hush.
The sudden silence settled over the room like a heavy curtain, the only sound the collective intake of breath, a moment of suspended anticipation. Kaguya's approving nod broke the stillness.
"Good," she declared, her voice cutting through the silence.
"Now, girls, I know you are excited, but it is late. We can welcome our new neighbors tomorrow," Goddess Astraea intervened, her words a soothing to the excited girls
"YEAH!" The cheer that erupted from the familia reverberated through the hall, a harmonious crescendo that echoed the excitement of new beginnings. The atmosphere, charged with anticipation and the warmth of shared enthusiasm, marked the beginning of a chapter yet to be written.
A newly descended deity that Snuck into Orario (Think of this as an Internal monologue after seeing the announcement of the Erebus familia.)
"The fuck Erebus this wasn't what we talked about" an angry female voice rages.
"The fuck happened?"
"We weren't supposed to announce ourselves for another year"
"Plus who is the kid?"
"When did we involve a kid in our plan?"
Grrrr… Now I am going to go and meet with Erebus sooner rather than later.
That means pushing off all the stuff I had planned.
Seriously what the actual fuck?
How could the plan fall apart in a single day?
Why me?
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I never would have thought Erebus would flake like this.
Hold on. He didn't seem the type to be like that.
Rather than flaking
Maybe he found something more important?
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I wonder who is this child?
Maybe he is the reason?
I caught just a brief glimpse of him, but I couldn't really see his soul like other mortals.
It is like something is blocking my divine sight.
But there are very few things that can do that.
Hold on that coat that the boy is wearing.
Is that it?
Yes, I see if he has that then he can only be a child of Hera.
She would be the only one that could get ahold of something like that.
I see Erebus must have seen something in this boy's soul that caused him to change the plan.
HPHM. Still a royal pain in the ass though.
Tekai damn it. This is a pain.
A Goddess residing in a place of darkness
"I see so your plan has changed my love." A velvety voice emerges from the shroud of night.
"Let's see what you are going to do now my darling. Now I wonder why you changed the plan."
"Oh. My. I see. That mortal boy is the cause. He is quite adorable. He looks like a little bunny. He is certainly the nervous type though."
"Oh. I see. Truly, a desire strong enough to manifest a skill like that. Even my powers could not foresee an event like that."
"The endless potential of mortals is just so fascinating to watch."
"Truly that mortal is special. Deities will wage unending wars for him if that skill becomes known. Wealth, money, power, women. Anything or Anyone he desired would be his. Now will he be able to resist the temptations once he starts to attract attention? I truly wonder how he managed to avoid spotted by other deities."
"Perhaps the other gods have they really gone that blind? Consumed with their own arrogance? Pathetic. Zeus and Hera would have noticed him a second. Truly the quality of deities leading Orario has declined."
"kufff kuff. I see he takes after little Zeusy. Makes me wonder what he would be like if he had been raised by Zeus."
"Oh my little Alfia is going to need to learn to keep much calmer than that. I can already count the veins emerging. He obviously has that redhead. There will likely be many more in the future."
"hehehe. Zard is already sighing from Alfia. Opps. Looks like he is going for the liquor. Oh MY. He went for the good stuff right off the bat. That is certainly one way to deal with her. Though given her temperament and Zard's tolerance, he is going to need a Very Large bottle."
"PFT… Seriously my love picking the mansion right across from Astraea familia ... pfft…. That isn't even the fox sneaking into the hen-house. That is like the fox building the hen-house. Little Alfia is going to have a hard time with this. I mean after what he said to that redhead."
"kufff…really me? Terrifying? I might be a little offended but my love has put me in a good mood so I will be gracious and overlook it."
"I see there will be many obstacles on this boy's path. So many petty and jealous deities. So many lustful deities thinking of nothing else other than their own satisfaction. So many opportunistic deities thinking of their own glory."
"SO MANY ARTIFICIAL HEROES. Thinking they can scheme their way to glory. Thinking that cunning and schemes can make a true hero. Those heroes are a dime a dozen and we gods are bored of them. Those heroes all fade to nothing in a generation or two. Only those that seize the title for themselves can be true heroes."
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Only those who are willing to risk it all are true heroes.
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They are the ones that are remembered.
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Albert Waldstein,
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Celdia,
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Evelda,
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Fianna,
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Yuri,
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Galmus,
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Feena,
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And Argonaut
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All heroes, who threw themselves into the crucible of fire and battle.
Even the first Braver, though he tried to scheme his way to being a hero when pushed the First Braver craved a path forward for the mortal realms with his final act. Those are the ones that shape the world.
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"Now, will this boy be able to walk alongside them?
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I wonder if that boy can keep his promise. What destiny have you woven for him my Moirai?
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What thread have you spun for him, my Clotho?
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What trials will await the boy?
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What triumphs will the boy have?
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What tragedies will the boy have to persevere through?
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What length of thread have you given him my Lachesis?
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Will his life resemble a bright flash that soon flickers out?
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Or will his life be that of a great fire that continues long into the night?
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What ending have you chosen for him my Atropos?"
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Will he weave a comedy?
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Will his desire for herodom cause a tragedy?
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Will he end up a forgotten hero like so many that have tried before?
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OR will he weave a Myth that will cause the very heavens to tremble in awe?
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Even more will this mortal follow the path you have set for him my Moria?
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Or will his desire triumph over even the power of the fates themselves?"
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This mortal may very well defy all our expectations.
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Let us watch what this mortal is capable of.
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Let his Familia Myth Begin