In the realm of Eclipsia, where Darkness reigned, a palpable tension filled the air. Death, fresh from the battlefield, his armor etched with the scars of combat, strode into the grand hall. There, he observed his progeny, Darkness, engaged in training with Strike.
"Something you want to discuss, my son?" Death inquired, his voice resounding off the chamber walls.
Pausing his exercise, Darkness raised his gaze, his demeanor serene and controlled. "No, Father, there is nothing to convey. I merely shared a laugh at a jest from Strike," he responded, his tone even, betraying no sign of his prior endeavors.
"But I didn't tell you any—" Strike began to speak but was abruptly interrupted as he bent over in agony, the result of Darkness's unexpected elbow jab to his abdomen.
"Apologies, Strike, but you must stay alert. Allow me to assist you," Darkness said hastily, aiding Strike to stand while wishing he would refrain from saying anything further that might trouble Death. "Why... did you do that... you shadowy bastard!" Strike said, clutching his stomach while glaring daggers at his cousin, Darkness.
Death regarded his son, his face betraying no emotion. "Very well. Remember, our purpose is to preserve equilibrium, not to meddle. Remain watchful." Darkness gave a nod, a blend of relief and determination within him. "Understood, Father. Always."
Upon these words, Death withdrew, leaving Darkness in solitude with his contemplations. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, yet he was resolute in his duty to safeguard Kathy and maintain the harmony of their realms, all while avoiding the wrath of his father.
After their training session, Darkness sat beside Strike, the tension thick in the air. He could no longer conceal the truth. "Strike, there's something I must tell you," Darkness said gravely. "A human girl, Kathy, was in peril, and I intervened." Strike's eyes widened in disbelief. "You aided a human? That breaches our code, Darkness!" Darkness acknowledged the breach. "I'm aware, but inaction was not an option. She... she seemed important." Strike was nursing his sore stomach. The pain from Darkness's elbow strike still lingered, and he couldn't shake off the sense that something was amiss. "You met a human girl, and I get struck in the stomach. How is that fair?" Strike grumbled, rubbing his sore abdomen. Darkness exhaled, unable to hide the secret any longer. "It was imperative, Strike. She was in danger, and I had to act." Strike let out a groan but agreed with a nod. "Alright, I'll zip it and keep your secret. No more details, please. I'm not up for another belly poke from you." Limping away and nursing his stomach, Strike grumbled under his breath., "I... Hate... You... Darkness!" Darkness called out apologetically, "I've already apologized!" Watching Strike leave, Darkness was relieved the secret was safe, yet aware that this was just the beginning. Safeguarding Kathy and preserving the equilibrium of their realms demanded greater discretion and subtlety.
As Strife traversed the training grounds, he spotted his son, Strike, limping in agony. With a mix of concern and curiosity, he quickly approached. "What in the world went down with you, Strike?" he inquired, managing to keep his expression neutral. Strike, clutching his abdomen, moaned in discomfort. "Darkness, that's what!" he spat out, clearly agitated. Strife's eyebrow arched, his lips curving into a half-smile. "What new shenanigans has he been up to this time?" he probed. Strike exhaled sharply; pain evident as he tried to stand tall. "He turned to his sneaky tricks in the heat of battle," he admitted, yet concealing the full truth about his cousin. Strife let out a laugh, amused by the predicament. "Caught by that elbow move again, huh? Keep an eye out for it next time—it's a sneaky one!" Strike shot his father a resentful look. "I was so delighted; I begged him to keep it on loop; it's like having Christmas cheer on tap!" he retorted sarcastically. "This is no laughing matter, Father. Darkness is a nutcase!" Strife laid a comforting hand on his son's shoulder, his grin unwavering. "Well, at least you weren't the first or the last to fall for it. Let's get you patched up before you start glowing in the dark." Watching Strike limp off, Strife's soft chuckle echoed; he mused, "That boy and his antics..." Yet, beneath the levity, Strife was acutely aware of the serious risks and repercussions of Darkness's behavior. He recognized the need for caution to preserve equilibrium and safeguard their domain.
Concealed within the shadows, Lilith surveyed the unfolding events from a distance. Her eyes sparkled with a blend of pride and malevolence as she observed her progeny, Darkness. At her side was a freshly inducted demon, zealous to demonstrate his allegiance. "Ah, my grandson," whispered Lilith, her tone laced with ominous pleasure, "it appears our schemes are nearing realization." The demon, craving insight, edged closer. "Mistress, what shall be our next endeavor?" Without diverting her attention from Darkness, Lilith responded, "We require the son of Death; he is crucial. His recent acquaintance with a human female may just be the leverage we need to ensnare him."
The demon's eyes gleamed with excitement. "A human, you say? What is our next move?" Lilith's grin broadened, her sharp teeth on display. "We shall observe and bide our time. At the opportune moment, we will employ the girl to ensnare Darkness. His attachment to her shall lead to his undoing." Observing from the darkness, Lilith experienced a thrill of anticipation. Aware of the high stakes, she savored the impending challenge. The game had begun, and she was poised to engage.