Disclaimer: The works of of Campione(!) and any other used series belong solely to their respective owners. No commissions will be accepted for this project, as it would be against doing this as a work of passion. Also potentially illegal.
Greetings! A new day and a new chapter. An update this soon after a previous one is going to be rare, just a forewarning. I had already had chapter two ready when I published the fic, so it was just a matter of me wanting to not spam.
First a shoutout to my first reviewer "Hector Gonzales". I hope you don't mind me placing you out there. I appreciate the kind words, and just the general fact you took the time to review my story. Honestly, my expectation was it would take at least a week before anyone found it interesting enough to review. So, pleasant surprise. You brought up two good points about what I wrote in the first chapter. To address the critique involving Cerrunnous, I'm operating under the principle Heretic Gods may descend in whatever location they like. Even if said location is outside their mythological sphere of influence. That said, there is a reason behind the bestial gods descent in Africa, which will be explained in time. Without spoiling too much, when did I write a scene with the god's definitive death?
As for the second point, I understand the confusion. I was torn on whether or not to write a prologue or save the events of the MC's ascension to a Campione for a flash back. The thing is the way I plan on building the world is radically different from canon Campione! Including the origins of Heretic Gods and Campione. Which in canon, in my opinion, was terrible. Now I haven't read the later Campione! works so maybe it was elaborated on and made more sense. But I have no idea to to get a hold of those volumes in English, so I decided to rewrite it from scratch. I want to pace the world building, so I decided to go with the mysterious opening to get peoples attention without exposing my hand to early. Frankly it might be a bad choice, this is my first story so it's lots of trial and error.
Speaking of differences Campione in the Veneration universe are slightly different than canonical Campione. I'll let the story reveal most of the differences, but I'll speak on Alec's reaction to the ascension of the Seventh King. Every Campione has supernatural instincts, in this case it was the instinct that tells Alec another apex predator exists. Honestly, this isn't even my own original idea. I'm fairly certain another Campione fic had this idea first. But the idea is that Campione are divine apex predators and they need the instincts to match that role.
Please feel free to review or even pm me if you have thoughts or questions about the story. Can't promise when I'll respond but I WILL check when I'm on the site and respond.
Now, let the show continue.
Veneration
Human Rising Arc
Chapter 2: Where it all begins.
Sometimes it's fate that decides our path. Sometimes it's choice. Other times it's just dumb luck.
Jace was not enjoying the Mediterranean.
"We'll be taking your fee now Signor."
Really it had been one mess after the other.
"Signor it's unwise to ignore us."
So many questions and no answers. He still had no explanation how he ended half the world away from Russia.
"Signor, pay up now."
The only bloody good thing so far had been his luck in landing a ship across the sea without proper identification. It had been a gambit though. He'd managed to talk his way aboard the ship, but the less than scrupulous smugglers had chosen to renege on their deal. Wanting money he didn't have, Jace was left with few options out of the situation.
"Signor!-hrk!".
'Grab. Twist the arm. Pivot off the left foot, pull. Cross to the optical.'
Fortunately, the smugglers were underestimating the young man. He'd dealt with their kind for a decade. Giving him the experience to pull this off. Jace capitalized on this, or rather exploited it to maximum effect.
Calmly reaching down Jace drew the dropped knife off the smuggler he had just rendered unconscious. Now where was he at?
Five smugglers left. None of particular large size, the largest likely stood no more than 1.8m. Jace stood at 2.15m, with the brawn to match that height. Only one of the hostile men held their knives with any particular skill. The muscular giant on the other hand had a decade of combat experience at his disposal. Not the worst odds, but not good odds either.
If it were only two on one, or even three Jace knew he could have pulled it off. Against five though? Straight up combat wasn't the smart choice.
"I made a deal with your boss if you remember. I don't like broken promises. Put the knives away and I'll forget this happened." The muscular giant's rich baritone had unshaken confidence despite the situation he found himself in.
"This is our ship bastard; we make the rules. Besides, you may have just killed Mario!" The youngest thug proclaimed bitingly. Despite his bravado he made no attempt to get closer, cowed for the moment.
"He's not dead. But the lot of you will be if you force this. One chance, back off or this goes down in blood." Jace's voice was neither desperate nor wrathful, it was simply cold steel; a certain promise. It was enough to give the smugglers pause, his hard eyes made each of them take a step back in turn. The muscular giant meant business. If pushed, he would unreservedly slaughter them.
At first nothing happened, everyone just breathing, waiting. Five nervously, one patiently. Then it all broke loose.
The youngest, fiery thug charged at Jace, no clear plan just emotion. The muscular giant didn't move. The other four made toward Jace was well, but at a much slower, uncertain pace.
That was a critical mistake. Had they moved in unison they could have taken him with only minimal casualties. Their unorganized approach cost them.
The young-blood charging head-long only got a single swing in. Jace parried the reckless blow with ease, turning the blade away from him. A quick crack too the throat dropped the first smuggler, stealing his breath away. Finally moving the muscular giant bounded towards the next smuggler, intending to keep from being surrounded.
The second smuggler was much better than the wrench now gasping for air. The two men began a short exchange of blows. The two seemed evenly matched. Every thrust was parried, and every slash dodged. Normally this would mean Jace's loss as the rest of the smugglers would gang up on him. Fortunately, the other smugglers were still hesitant about engaging in the melee. Perhaps fear of being caught in between. After a brief reprieve the two combatants re-engaged.
Knowing another prolonged exchange would only embolden the rest of his foes, Jace decided to gamble. He waited till another parry came, then slammed the opponents knife away with additional force. Taking the minor opening he thrust his knife, aiming for the kidneys. The skill of the smuggler was exceptional though as the man narrowly avoided the thrust. This left Jace exposed on his left side, which the smuggler seized upon.
Bingo. This was the moment Jace had been waiting for; the trap he had set. In other words, his real gamble.
Jace spun the instant his attack failed. The arc of the spin brought him out of the path of the incoming knife. The end of the arc placed the muscular giant on the smuggler's right outside of his knife's zone of defense. Worse for the smuggler, his last attack had left him overextended and unable to bring his arm back in time to defend. Jace had reversed his grip on the knife mid spin. Now he executed the last part of his gamble. Jace's knife flashed through the air, biting into the smuggler's neck.
Jace wasn't expecting it to go all the way through. 'Just how much stronger have I become?' The muscular giant mused in the momentary lull the death caused. The smugglers were rethinking their odds now that they were down to half their previous number.
'Good maybe they'll bloody back off now, otherwise—!'. A sharp pointed weight jammed into Jace's back. He knew the instant he felt it, he had screwed up. He'd forgotten about the first man he'd dropped. The man who must've awakened and taken the opportunity caused by his negligence to ram a knife into his back.
Wait.
"Che cosa?"
Where was the pain?
Jace looked over his shoulder to see the man previously unconscious now behind him very much awake. And very much confused. Jace reached behind himself. His fingers met hard steel. Hard, dry steel. Not an ounce of blood where it should have been spraying out. Yanking his hand back Jace took the offending knife, while he dropped his own knife. With his now free hand Jace patted the spot where precious lifeblood must have been spilling out, but impossibly was not.
Looking from the knife in hand too himself the muscular giant radiated confusion. His eyes turned toward and meant the frightened eyes of his would-be killer. The knife flashed once, ramming deep into the gut of the smuggler, cutting through the flesh as easily as butter.
He withdrew the knife ignoring the smuggler's howls of pain. His expression hardened. The muscular giant reared back his knife hand, plunging the blade down.
Straight into his own arm.
Only for the knife point to jam at the skin. Skin that should have been slightly tougher than paper to cut had just stopped a steel dagger cold.
Jace marveled at the sharp edge of the blade. "This just gets bloody stranger and stranger by the day. I wonder….". The muscular giant looked from one arm to the arm, tossing his head around in some decision.
The knife fell free from his grip. Jace tugged his shirt free up and free from his body, baring his pristine body. Arms raised into a loose fighting stance he uttered "I don't understand what's going on here. But I do know one thing… NOW I'M BLOODY PISSED, I LIKED THAT SHIRT!".
With a roar, Jace charged.
He did so without fear. The poor smugglers on the other hand trembled in sweat-stained terror.
()
Godou was not enjoying the Mediterranean.
"Are you sure you know where you're going?" An electronically mimicked voice doubtfully called out.
"Hai Shizuku. I'm following the map exactly and haven't gotten lost yet." A youth tiredly responded into the phone pressed to his ear.
His goal had been simple. Fly to Sardinia, find his grandfather's old flame, return her possession, then go home.
Simple enough, right?
"You said that an hour ago onii-san!" Godou winced as the voice blasted into his ear.
Unfortunately, the plan wasn't going as well as hoped.
"Okay, so I'm a little lost. Consider it sightseeing." Even to his own hear Godou admitted that sounded like an excuse.
His grandfather's instructions weren't holding up. Too much time had passed, clearly his old flame had moved long ago.
"Sightseeing he says. Whatever the calls costing us enough as is. Just come home soon alright." Godou's sister nagged across the international call. Her level of faith in Godou's abilities plain as day.
Godou sighed as he ended the call. Yet another moment where his imouto snubbed him for his lack of decision-making skills.
Really how hard should it be to return some dusty old stone tablet. The youth still didn't understand why his grandfather suddenly wanted the tablet returned. Well, it was too late to be complaining, he was already halfway-across the world.
()
Erica was not enjoying Sardinia.
"Honestly. I come all the way out here and find nothing." A young female sighed, closing her eyes in derision.
She had been tasked to patrol and find the source of disturbance in the leylines. So far nothing has come up. After several days of reconnaissance, something should have sprung up. It was impossible that her organization's most talented seers would unanimously discern Cagliari as the focal of the brewing storm.
"More importantly I can't come back empty handed. Not after all the evidence the others found." Causing her budding irritation. As someone of her rank, finding nothing of import after all the previous destruction in random areas of Sardinia, would be a major failure. It would be one thing if she was a lowly grunt or someone of negligible skill. But for her failure was unacceptable. Oh, she had no delusion of putting an end to the growing chaos, that was far beyond her station, despite her high expectations. She just needed to point the Sword that would do the cutting in the right direction.
Wait.
Erica's eyes moved toward the talisman held in her hand. The small bauble swayed, despite the lack of wind. Slowly the swaying turned into outright tugging. The spell work on the talisman was set up to only react to divine energy. If it was moving so strongly now…
It would seem her day just went from boring to potentially troublesome.
()
The sun was high in the sky by the time Jace finally found his way off the boat. The smugglers had become much more compliant following the … fight. Letting him get back to his primary business. Following the pull that had led him across Africa and across the Mediterranean Sea. As incomprehensible as it seemed the extra-natural instinct, Jace guessed, was his only lead.
That Thing. Or whatever attacked him in Africa had implied there were others like it. It had also strongly attempted to kill him. No doubt those others would be of a similar mindset. Jace Armell needed answers if he was going to survive the coming days.
So, he would follow, follow until he found someone who would answer all his questions.
Fortunately for the human giant the pull was getting stronger the more he headed into Calgiari. Unfortunately, the pull seemed divided now. Split into three directions. The stronger pulls almost seemed farther away, while the weakest pull felt… closer. Stanger still the farther beacon felt near the same as that thing, stirring up the sensations of combat. Curiously the closer beacon felt, different, for lack of a better word to Jace.
'It's almost as if it's calling out. Calling me to….' Jace mused.
Then someone spoke up behind him, startling him.
Broken out of his reverie Jace whipped around. Bringing face to face with the speaker. Or rather face to chest.
Looking down Jace saw a youth of the orient. The teenager topped at around 180 cm, placing him the base of the human giant's neck. Way less muscular, lean, but not unhealthy. Male as well.
The young man seemed to begin to regret bothering the human giant if the nervous gulp he made was any indication.
"Oh man, your even bigger up close." The teen nervously sputtered.
"Just figure that out. What do you want?" Jace gruffly spoke in return.
The teen, instead of responding right away, smiled instead. Sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck, the teen said "I apologize. I was nervous about asking for directions because no one has understood English so far." Jace noted something was off about this conversation. Just like when he spoke to the smugglers… Again! "But you speak Japanese! I'm just relieved I found someone I can finally speak to."
Jace was fluent in Russian as it was his mother tongue. He could, under pressure, speak English, not well, but could. He most certainly didn't speak Japanese. Yet here he was listening to it like it was natural. Even stranger was the fact he could answer in the same tongue as the stranger in perfect pronunciation. "Yeah, Japanese. Anyway. If you want directions, ask someone else. I'm not a local so you're wasting your time asking me."
"Oh, oh. Sorry to bother you. I've just had a long day. Finding the owner of this tablet has been a real… well pain." That's when the Japanese teen brought up the tablet he was holding in his hands.
There. That was it, the instinct from before screamed. That was the third pull!
Jace immediately snatched the tablet from the Japanese teen, ignoring the teen's squawk of indignation. Flipping it around graced him with imagery that seemed ancient. The stone of the tablet was pristine, so the impressions carved into it were clear as day. Birds flocked in the background. A single man of significant height stood centerpiece, holding his hand up cupping what appeared to be flame in the stony hand.
It was utterly beautiful but otherwise mundane. Utterly mundane saved for it thrummed with raw Power. Jace could feel it now that it was in his hands, the subtle vibrations signaling the hidden power within. Whatever it was, the tablet sung a soundless song to him. Calling out for… something.
"What is this thing?" Jace whispered half to himself, half to the general area. Jace blinked snapping out of the trance the tablet had lulled him into. Eyes steeling, he re-orientated with the oriental teen. The sudden intensity in the gaze he found himself under caused the Japanese teen to gulp with suddenly induced nervousness.
Louder, stronger, and with a hard demanding edge Jace said "What is this tablet? What is this feeling? Bloody answer me!"
The oriental teen started back. Eyes widened in increasing nervousness he stammered "J-Just a tablet! All I know is it's really old and belonged to my grandfather's former lover." He quickly continued when it seemed Jace found that answer unsatisfactory. "That's it, I swear."
"You two! Hand over that Grimoire immediately!" Before the human giant could interrogate the Japanese teen further a voice interrupted their conversation.
Both turned their heads to see a blond woman in a red dress pointing a domineering finger at them. "What?" Both men said in English.
"I'll try it again in English." The blond softly spoke under her breath, uttering more soft-spoken words. It sounded like chanting.
"I said, hand over that Grimoire immediately." Bellicose in near perfect English the blond shouted at the two men.
Jace scowled darkly, he did not like being ordered about, especially now. Turning around fully to face the blond, he gripped the stone tablet closer to his chest in a possessive fashion. "Grimoire huh. You know what this Grimoire is? Because I don't and it's bloody pissing me off."
The blond scowled at the human giant's non-compliance. She retorted "If you know nothing of the danger in your hands, I'll be doing you a favor and taking it. In the name of Erica Blandelli of the Copper Black Cross you will hand over that Grimoire!"
"Or what?" Jace simply inquired. He made no moves standing stone still but imposing all the same.
Erica hesitated. She had anticipated running into fellow practitioners not the uninitiated. She had also played the authority card which usually worked in such a situation. She would have to play her cards carefully. The giant of a man was dangerous, she could tell from the way he held himself. Intimidation was unlikely to work unless she resorted to more… esoteric methods.
"Going to pull that tiny knife from your back." Erica's eyes widened at the correct statement from the human giant. "Surprised? It's not well hidden really. Anyway. Decide. Because I am fed up with-".
Jace stiffened, as an all-to-familiar sensation lit up inside him. The instinct for battle. "This feeling again. Another one?!"
"Another one? What do you mean?" Erica asked yet received no answer as a wave of pressure washed over the three teens. The rolling force made the two smaller teens flinch, though it had no substance. It was a roar massive and resounding.
"There." Jace spoke. Following his gaze, the other teens saw what he was waiting for. It manifested out of a flash of light.
A Boar.
Massive, standing taller than the surrounding buildings, visible from a kilometer away. Majestic in a way, the sheer size and raw Power radiating off it, producing an aura inspiring awe and terror. The Boar started moving forward, the ground shaking in response. Each step cratered the ground beneath it belying great weight.
"It can't be. A Heretic God!" Erica gasped.
"You two run away if you value your lives!" Erica shouted at the two men before running off toward a parked car. The driver of the car took off as soon as the blond leaped onto the roof.
Jace for his part didn't waste any time. He didn't know what was going on but apparently that blond girl did. If he lost her now, he might never get the answers he needed. He shoved the tablet into the orient teen arms saying, "Don't lose this.", before taking off after Erica.
()
Godou didn't know what to do. He was in way over his head. Stay here, run away like he was told, or chase after the other two toward that massive Boar. Yeah, the smart option was to run away, But if he did that would those two weirdo's might chase after him. Indecision tore at the young man; each option carrying its own risks if he took it.
Before he could finally make a decision, a voice spoke up from behind him. It was rich and smooth, holding a self-assurance that conveyed absolute confidence.
"Boy hand over that container of the divine."
Godou couldn't explain why but he felt an unquestionable urge to obey. Before he could think about it, he found himself turning around and moving toward the voice.
The speaker was a first sight out of place. It was a child. A hale-faced youth of splendid complexion and characteristics. Every inch of His face was a pristine tan, in fact it was so pristine, it was unnatural. Inhuman even with just how perfect the features were. The divinely handsome youth continued as Godou stepped forward. "Good child of man. Knowing your place before the Sacrosanct is worthwhile. Especially in this turbulent age."
Godou finally reached the divinely handsome youth, stopping just short. For a reason unknown to himself he kneeled, offering up the tablet as if in supplication. Fear ate at Godou's mind. He couldn't control his own body; it was like the strange child was pulling invisible strings. "W-who are you?" Despite the undeniable charisma rolling off the divinely handsome youth some part of Godou's mind remained free to worry over the situation.
An amused smile played on the divinely handsome youth's face, highlighting his cherubic nature. "Ah so some part of you remains free despite the aura of the [Youth]. Though not enough to resist my incomplete nature. I am the Victor. The strongest and he who shall defeat every enemy."
Godou didn't understand. Victory? Enemies?
"Although I don't think it is necessarily bad to have a taste of defeat. I came to this land to revive the King of the Ancient Gods, in order to fight them. Yet I remain undefeated."
The [Victor]'s gaze shifted off of Godou following the fleeting forms of Jace and Erica.
"Do you know those two, boy?"
Godou responded obediently "No, I just met them. Both wanted that tablet actually."
The [Victor] paused for a moment. Then the divinely handsome youth burst into maniacal laughter. "Oh, this is even better than I could have hoped for. That one is a supreme warrior and relentless demon! This [Thief] agrees with me! I may finally have a taste of defeat!"
Godou was afraid, that went without saying. The Victor was unhinged in his perception. He couldn't understand what person wanted to be defeated so badly. Most of all he was afraid that he was being dragged toward his death. He still couldn't force his body to obey.
"Child of man take this tablet and gift it to the young King. Inform him Verethragna calls upon him to fight. I wish to experience the joy of grand battle and mayhaps defeat. Now go."
Verethragna placed the tablet in Godou's hands. Then in a burst of wind the divinely handsome youth disappeared. With the unnatural entities leave Godou found himself able to move again. The first thing he did was release a massive breath of air he didn't know he had been holding.
"Gah what was that?!"
The next was look forlornly in the direction of the giant rampaging boar. He didn't want to go that way. But. He had a feeling if he didn't the three strangers would come after him anyway.
With middling determination, the teenager from Japan set off after the human giant and scarlet clad blond.
()
Erica's driver had finally made it to the port of Calgliari. Just in time to see the utter devastation the [Boar] was wrecking. Warehouses lay flattened, buildings smashed inward, boats sunk where the [Boar]'s mighty roars had smashed them against the harbor. Erica didn't focus on any of that. She took in every sight calmly and used it to steel her resolve.
It was up too her to stop the Heretic God from rampaging. She didn't let herself dwell on what an impossible task it was. She had to try. If only long enough to allow the civilians to escape from the path of devastation.
"Arianna that's close enough. Direct any civilians to flee then leave yourself." Erica shouted as she leapt off the roof of the car.
"But Lady Erica you can't fight alone. That's-" The black-haired driver was cut off with another shout from Erica.
"I am a Great Knight of the Copper-Black Cross, my responsibility is to defend the defenseless. That includes you, Arianna. Now go!" Erica rebuked her driver. Arianna acquiesced to her superior's demand, slowly peeling the car away.
"Good. Now to get some more height." Erica began a short chant, in effect a prayer of sorts. "Grant me swift flighted steps. Fly boots of Hermes!" These were Spell Words.
With the chant Erica took one leaping step and jumped into the air. She didn't come back down. Instead, she jumped again in thin air. Each hop was marked by a red circle at her foot.
Upon reaching the top Erica faced off against the [Boar]. It finally registered just how gigantic the beast truly was at this close. The distance between the frail human and rampaging giant couldn't have been more than two hundred meters.
"Lion of Steel and that which begets you. This is the oath of Knight Erica Blandelli. Appear in my hand, Cuore di Leone!"
A sword manifested in Erica's hands. A rapier fit for fencing, beautifully forged and bound in hilt by an amethyst. For these were the Spell Words to invoke a Legend. Summoning a weapon of a knight was their purpose.
"That which signals the act of valor. Hear the magnificent cry of the Lion. Roar Cuore di Leone!"
With a flourish the Great Knight brandished her blade at the [Boar] though it took no notice. Though it took notice once a red lance of energy surged out from the rapier and crashed into the gigantic beast. It howled and stomped in irritation. It did not care for its advance to be halted. Finally, the [Boar] took notice of the Great Knight, setting its course straight for Erica.
Erica for her part poured more magical energy into her attack. She knew that the current output was only annoying the gigantic beast. She started sweating from exertion. The strain of attempting to push back a Heretic God was a serious burden on the body.
Though try as she might it would do her no good. The loud clash between the Great Knight and [Boar] lasted only for thirty seconds but for Erica it lasted an eternity. She could see the raw rage in the gaze of the Boar. It was beyond outraged that its advance had been halted. Furthermore, Erica could FEEL herself being pushed back. Cuore di Leone was a mighty weapon, one capable of wounding a god. But it wasn't enough to stop the might of the [Boar]. Erica and her weapon lacked the essential trait needed to overcome that obstacle.
The [Boar] roared, sending out a shockwave from its maw.
The shockwave overpowered the energy lancing out from Cuore di Leone. When the blow struck Erica, it sent her tumbling off the building. Unable to right herself Erica began her descent. It would have been lethal fall for a normal human, even one who could utilize magic.
Fortunately for her she didn't even need to use magic to save herself.
A mass collided with her midfall. It curled around her in a protective embrace.
It saved her life.
When she opened her eyes, Erica could see very little save for the color red. Specifically the color red of a shirt.
A grunt sounded right next to Erica's ear. It was at this point the blond knight realized it was the giant man from earlier embracing her. She simply stared up at him for a moment, cheeks blushing red, before quickly disentangling from the human giant.
"Are you insane? Do you know what damage you just did to yourself?! To save me…" Erica berated the human giant or started to only to stop when he casually lifted himself off the ground to a standing position.
"Should be dead from that fall but I'm perfectly okay. Honestly not the strangest thing to happen today." The human giant deadpanned after examining himself for damage.
"You good blondie? Never mind. What the bloody hell is that massive boar? And how do we kill it?"
Erica studied the human giant before answering. This feeling from him was familiar. She'd only been in a similar presence once before, but it had left a lasting impression. Along with the radiating power. She had thought it had been the Grimiore that she was following. Now she had her doubts. Slowly the blond knight spoke "Before I explain have you encountered a being like this one? Does it fill you with the urge to fight rather than run away?"
The human giant looked at the blond knight strangely. She was dead on the money. It was the same as Africa. An inexplicable hunger to fight the [Boar], surged within the human giant. He wanted nothing more than to destroy the beast.
"You guessed right. Now hurry up the boar is coming this way." The human giant pointed out their lack of breathing room from the rampaging [Boar].
Before Erica could reply though a tornado swallowed the [Boar]. The great beast roared within the gale but eventually grew quiet. Once the roaring ceased so did the tornado. The dying wind revealed nothing but empty space where the great beast once stood.
"The bloody fuck! Did that tornado just swallow up the massive porker?" The human giant not so calmly uttered.
"The wind never churns so hard on Sardinia. That can only mean it was an Authority. Another god? But why would it not show itself?" The blond knight spoke in a raised voice.
It was at this point the black-haired Japanese teen finally caught up to them. He looked at the two teens who came a hair-breath from death. Each had a look of confusion written on their faces. The blond seemed the least confused, but she looked as if she was bracing for a heavy burden. The human giant was not shy about expressing his irritation at the constant new mysteries presenting themselves. The oriental teen radiated anxiety, clearly out of his depth and unsure of everything.
Finally, the human giant spoke. "I think we need to sit down and have ourselves a conversation."
()
An hour later the three teens find themselves sitting outside a café. Having introduced themselves they began filling the others in on their respective stories that led them to this fateful encounter.
"You're me telling gods are real. Magic, Gods, Devils, and all the things that go bump in the night are real." Jace threw his head back and began laughing uncontrollably. Erica for her part didn't appreciate the human giant's raucous laughter but held her tongue until he stopped. "I assure you [Heretic Gods] are very much real. You saw for yourself the [Boar], or do you think it was all a mirage?"
Jace looked toward the sky then at Erica. "Consider me a believer. Just relieved I'm not going insane. After all what person in this day and age believes in gods?" Nonchalantly Jace leaned back into his seat. He had taken the news of the mystical side of the world extremely well. In fact, too well as if such a thing barely mattered to him. At least to Erica's perceptions.
Erica remained solemn, replying "Far too few, though it might be for the better. Without the ability to oppose such devastation as a Heretic God most would live in constant fear." Her gaze shifted to look at the third member of the meet and greet. Frowning she jabbed a finger at Godou saying "As evidenced by the sorry man over there."
Godou for his part had not taken his introduction too magic well. He was bent over with his head in his hands, repeatedly saying "No way. Magic is real."
Suddenly Godou's head shot up and he shouted squeakily "I almost died!"
"Yeah and? We all almost died, mostly blondie with her knight theatrics though." Jace deadpanned, face completely blank.
Erica did not appreciate the insult. "How rude. I am a Great Knight of the Copper-Black-Cross, it is my responsibility to react when magical entities threaten the common folk." She glared up at Jace; because even seated he towered over the other two.
Jace hummed neither agreeing nor disagreeing. "Anyway, how did I survive a fall from that height. Unscathed. Because unlike you Blandelli I can't use magic."
Godou even in his distressed state had to agree that falling from that kind of height should have at least broken every bone in a person's body if not outright kill them.
Looking straight at Jace she dropped her previous ire, tensing up as if getting ready for a strike to the gut. "Mr. Armell, you said before you encountered another Heretic God, correct?" Erica inquired. Jace nodded in the affirmative, raising an eyebrow at the sudden formality from the burlesque woman.
"Did you fight this god?" She asked though she dreaded the answer.
Jace's eyes narrowed. "Yeah, bastard came at me for the kill. Called itself Cerrounous or something. Not sure if I killed it but I definitely gave it a good thrashing." Jace recollected.
"You have no previous experience in magic?"
"Like I said earlier no." Jace responded.
"You are much stronger and sturdier than previously?"
"I survived that fall and chased down a car what do you think. Blandelli get to the point. I want an answer and it better not be another bloody question." Jace growled. He had grown tired of the ceaseless questioning Erica had subjected him to. He wanted answers; now.
Erica opened her mouth then closed it. One hand went to her chin as if to ponder a thought. Slowly she started "Gods are undefeatable by mortals. Normal humans stand no chance in combat, even I barely managed to slow one's advance. Their Authorities make them unassailable by all conventional means."
Jace started, he wanted an answer not more trivia. He stopped at the hand Erica held up, asking for patience. He acquiesced. For now.
"There is however one exception. A Campione". Erica folded her hands in her lap taking on a more severe mannerism. "Campione are in essence humans who have ascended to the same level as a god. That is not to say they become gods, rather they took the position of one while remaining mortal. They do so by killing a god."
"God-Slayers huh. Cool." Jace whistled.
"Indeed. God-Slayers are precisely what these extremely rare few are." Erica continued.
"Okay what else? What is a Campione besides a God-Slayer? Why do they make you so tense? You look like your staring death in the face Blandelli."
Erica took a deep breath before speaking, when she did her voice was severe. "Campione are the peak of mortal power. For every [Heretic God] they slay, they usurp an Authority. An Authority is the power, no, literal divinity of a God. Authorities tower over every mortal arsenal, even a nuclear bomb pales in comparison. Campione wielding these Authorities are absolute existences who cannot be defied. A Supreme King is what you would call Campione."
Jace didn't say anything for several moments. He was pondering everything he'd just been told; and it was a lot to take in. "You think I'm one of these Campione." Jace finally said. He said it as a matter of fact not a question.
Erica nodded. "I believe it's a possibility however small. The god Verethragna himself said you were a King. Along with the rest of the evidence… well I must consider it true. At least true enough to test you, with your permission that is Mr. Armell." Erica stated.
"Test how exactly?" Jace inquired.
"Rather than a test it would be better to call it a trial. Mr. Armell I ask of you if you are truly a King of the World, exert your will against destiny. Duel the [Heretic God] Verethragna and slay the same deity. That is how we can be sure." Erica responded solemnly.
"You want me to fight a god like it's a samba match. Not only that but then kill said immortal." Jace stared into Erica's eyes as he spoke. "Sounds kind of impossible."
"That is the point Mr. Armell. Campione are impossible existences. If you want to know for sure prove you're a God-Slaying King." Erica stated. She gave no ground on this matter.
"Or don't. Remain uncertain and continue about your daily life as if nothing ever happened, but always with that nugget of doubt present." Erica challenged.
"Oi. Asking Armell-san to fight a god is rather extreme now isn't it. I mean we only just learned about [Heretic Gods] and Campione after all." Godou mouthed around the mention of Heretic Gods uncertain if he was being disrespectful calling them that. He was still rather afraid since the encounter with Verethragna.
"Only a Campione can fight a god and hope to survive. God Verethragna called upon him to fight and neither of us can stand in the way." Erica remained undeterred.
"What if we talked this out? Why does anyone have to fight?" Godou persisted.
"Because-" Erica attempted to speak.
"I'll do it." Jace interrupted.
Both teens stared gobsmacked at Jace. He calmly looked at both and continued. "I'll fight this god. These gods seem to have it out for me, so if I just ignore him, he'll come after me anyway. Better to fight on my own terms than some else's."
A vicious grin split Jace's face. "I have no intention of laying down and dying. This god wants a piece of me. I'll ram my fist down his throat and choke him to death, immortal or not."
Godou gulped at the sudden bloodlust.
Erica gave a nervous smile.
"Now where do we start? We're going to need to find this god first." Jace said.
The blond knight stood up, motioning for the other two to as well. "Truthfully our best course of action should be to complete Mr. Kusanagi's errand." Erica stated.
Rising up Jace and Godou both questioned her "Because/why?"
"Your grandfather's old flame, Lucretia Zola, just so happens to be a highly talented Witch. One of the best in the world in fact. If anyone can help us prepare to fight a god, it would be her." Erica answered.
"Alright let's get moving then." Jace ordered.
"Uh, how are we getting to Zola-san's home?" Godou questioned.
The black hair Ariana pulled up as if by magic. The pretty young woman would normally be a welcome sight for most men. For Jace and Godou the sight of Ariana in the car filled them with an inexplicable feeling of dread. Neither could place it, but they just knew getting in that car would be a terrible idea.
Jace, however, was never one to be intimidated. He followed behind Erica climbing into the car. Erica cast an arched eyebrow at Godou, as if to ask the Japanesel teen if he planned to join them or not. Godou was deeply torn about getting deeper into the abyss of the moonlight world. On the one hand he wanted to avoid any more life-threatening situations like earlier. On the other hand, he really wanted to not die before old age. Though he felt he at least needed to see this matter through to the end. He couldn't explain why to himself. So Godou found himself joining in the back seat alongside Erica.
There had been a small staring contest over who got to ride shotgun between Jace and Erica, but Erica relented when Jace pointed out the massive size difference between the two. Her pouting seemed to have no effect on Jace considering his indifferent reaction.
()
"Stop the car now!" Jace hollered.
The car came to a screeching halt on the empty road. Arianna turned to face the human giant sitting next to her. She quickly paled upon meeting his savage gaze. "You are done driving. I'm taking the wheel." Jace stated in a manner implying no backtalk would be acceptable. "Yes Armell-sama." Arianna squeaked out.
Erica bemused by the human giant's first sign of being unnerved, airily said "Arianna's only failings as a maid are she can't drive or make stew."
Godou having another near-death experience shouted, "We nearly died three times!" They may have nearly died several times due to Arianna's poor driving.
Jace for his part grunted in agreement once he was properly seated at the car's controls.
"Blondie next time warn a man." Jace muttered aloud.
Erica pouted again at the apt nickname.
()
After a much calmer drive the group arrived at an old villa beside the sea. Not only was it old but it was slightly overgrown. Add in the shadows cast by the setting sun it gave the whole place a slightly creepy feel. Overall, a fitting abode for a stereotypical witch.
"So how do we get in? I'm not seeing a doorbell." Godou said. The Japanese teen was correct. The old stone surrounding the wrought iron gate lacked either an old knocker or more modern electric buzzer.
"Could bust the gate down. Or maybe Blandelli could use her magic to pick the lock." Jace casually stated, throwing a questioning glance at the blond knight.
Erica sniffed in derision at the suggestion. "A knight does not enter like a common thief. Besides Lady Zola assuredly knows we are here."
A voice not belonging to any of the teens affirmed Erica's words in the next moment.
"Indeed. Now what do the four of you seek from Lucretia Zola? Mayhaps rob a poor lonely woman?"
After a quick search for the source of the voice the four teens found… a cat. The black cat was perched atop the stone gateway looking down on them. It was simply an ordinary cat. Except it was talking in a very human voice. "Does the cat have your tongues?"
Jace arched an eyebrow. "Talking cat okay. Blandelli…?" Jace indicated the blond Great Knight to take over.
"I am Erica Blandelli, Great Knight of the Copper-Black-Cross. I and the others with me have come to seek the knowledge of the High Earth Witch Lucretia Zola. A Heretic God has descended."
"Oh my, a Heretic God you say. That is rather serious." The talking cat mused.
The cat focused on Jace, feline and human(?) meeting gazes. Neither blinked, though the intensity of the cat's gaze held a human quality. "Young man with the flame-colored hair, what is your name?"
Jace, unperturbed by the talking cat languidly simply answered "Jace. Jace Armell."
The cat for its part almost seemed amused for unknown reasons to the group of teens. "I suppose I should hear what you have to say. Please come in." The cat turned away heading toward the house. The gate swung open with a groan all by itself. Or rather swung open with an unnecessary application of magic.
"Does anyone else find it weird we just spoke to a talking cat?" Godou asked no one in particular. Arianna smiled cutely as if to humor the oriental teen. Erica didn't give much of a reaction, staring ahead toward the house. Jace just shrugged, feeling that a talking cat was low of the list of strangeness he'd encountered today.
()
The inside of the old villa matched the outside. Not that it was poorly taken care of, quite the opposite. The various baubles and artifacts were lovingly preserved. It was just slightly creepy how the dim candlelight cast shadows everywhere, especially on the carved masks hung throughout the building.
Following the cat, the teens soon found themselves face to face with the owner of the residence; and what a face it was. Lucretia Zola was a beautiful woman. From her lovingly kept flaxen hair, deep dark pools for eyes, to her mature well developed body. Though one thing in particular begetted a question. She appeared no more than thirty years old.
"Kusanagi, I thought you said Zola was your grandfathers' old girlfriend. Because I don't see an old hag." Jace raised an eyebrow at the youngish looking Lucretia Zola. The earth witch should have been sell into her seventies. Her appearance was that of a women in her prime rather than a stereotypical old hag of a witch. Not one blemish, wrinkle or otherwise, save for a beauty mark on her cheek.
Godou for his part was averting his eyes. Not because Lucretia Zola was hideous, far from it as he was well aware. Rather because the woman was clad in only her underwear. Rather revealing negligee at that. Fighting the blush on his face the young Kusanagi fought to speak.
"Uh-h Zo-ola-san, are you by chance Lucretia's granddaughter?"
The earth witch openly giggled at Godou's attempts at politeness despite his apparent embarrassment. "Oh no boys I am indeed Lucretia Zola. As for the retention of my youth you could say magic is a girl's best friend. Works wonders for keeping a body in it's prime." A mischievous smirk worked in way on Lucretia's face. With a seductive edge Lucretia licked her lips. "If you remain skeptical perhaps a direct demonstration will change your mind. How about it, big boy?" Her gaze fixed on Jace as she mesmerizingly posed on her bed.
Godou became a stuttering mess, unused to hearing such a direct invitation for sex. Arianna covered her face with her hands muttering about scandals. Erica turned to the side blushing up a storm. "How lewd."
Jace merely grunted. "I'll pass. I'm more interested in what's in your head than in your pants."
Lucretia didn't seem put out, still smirking. "Oh, yes, a very important matter to forgo such exhilaration. It is a major disaster when a Heretic God descends. Of course, I'll be happy to help in whatever way I can. Especially when it's a King who call upon Lucretia Zola."
Erica and Arianna stiffened upon hearing that last part. Erica had guessed that Jace might, possibly, potentially be a Campione. Hearing it from the highest ranked Earth Witch in the world only bolstered the notion of it being true. She didn't want to believe it.
Jace crossed his arms. That was the second time someone had referred to him as a King. The blond knight's brief explanation had barely clarified what the position was. "King. Why are you and Blandelli referring to me as a King? Something to do with being a Campione right? I still don't understand what a Campione is." Jace was far more patient this time with getting his answers. At this point he was willing to wait if only because the answers were going to be had, rather than the complete uncertainty of the days past. "What does a Campione have to do with fighting Heretic Gods? Why is my body so bloody durable? And why does Blandelli seem so terrified of me being one? "
"Mmm. What is a Campione. Mages have struggled for centuries to define such impossible existences. Though I think it's relatively easy myself. Simply put Campione are irresistible forces of nature. Natural disasters in human form. After all what else but a hurricane can cause as much damage as an earthquake?"
Jace raised an eyebrow. Now they were getting somewhere. "I saw that [Boar]. Bloody thing smashed through whole buildings like tissue paper. If Campione wield that kind of power, I can see why you'd call them walking disasters." A snort. "Not exactly a fond- description though."
"Oh no not at all. A God-Slaying King may be an uncontrollable demon, they are still the champions of mankind." Lucretia rose up to a proper sitting position. The dim lighting cast a sinister shadow upon her face. "Without Campione you could say the world would be in such turmoil that civilization itself collapses into chaos."
Erica ran a hand through her hair, speaking up. "Lady Zola speaks correctly. Heretic Gods and the various entities of the supernatural wreak havoc upon humanity. The Earth remains in human hands precisely Campione rise up and oppose that which stands above humans naturally." A sigh. "She forgets to mention that those rare few are tyrants of the highest order."
"Come now young lady what's the issue if a King of Kings wishes to indulge in their desires? If I remember correctly your lineage owes itself to such indulgences."
Erica said nothing for once for she had no rebuttal.
"Umm, how does one become a Campione Zola-san? Blandelli-san said that a person must kill a god. That's not possible right?" Godou's question took the room. That was the major crux of the whole conversation.
A mysterious smile played across the earth witch's face. She'd been waiting for that.
"Seeking to join their ranks young man? Why it's not that difficult. A mere human must kill a god." Godou's jaw dropped at hearing that. Erica and Arianna nodded. Jace brought his hand to his face in contemplation. That beast-man in Africa had said something along similar lines.
"But… but aren't gods immortal? Blandelli-san you said that no human can oppose a god and win right?" Godou was struggling to process everything he was hearing. It was all just so fantastic!
"I did. Heretic gods tower over humanity as unstoppable Powers. To face one in battle is suicide." Erica looked down, a strange emotion in her voice. It sounded like sadness, mixed with a bitter tone.
Jace rumbled in contemplation. "Zola, answer the question."
"There is no set method to kill a Heretic God. Rather it comes down to the luck, skill, and tenacity of a human. Only those willing to risk their very lives in order to seize the smallest chance of victory can emerge triumphant over a god. Isn't that right Erica Blandelli?" Lucretia smirked at the blond. Erica sighed again, closing her eyes. Slowly she spoke.
"Yes. I remember the King of Swords ascension. He turned the power of a god upon themselves. Through the fortune of his peerless swordsmanship, he managed to use [Rippling Arm of Silver] to strike a lethal blow on a god, killing it. At the cost of his own life." "This was an act worthy enough of being reborn as a Campione."
Jace focused on Erica. He was adept at reading people, life had forced him to be as a matter of survival. Erica was angry. For whatever this Sword King pissed off the blond knight. He didn't ask why. Jace was not interested in the details and he knew that she would refuse to indulge him. So, he stopped Godou with a look when the Japanese teen attempted to further prod the blond knight. Best to let sleeping dogs lie in Jace's mind.
Jace turned the conversation back towards Lucretia. The earth witch was all to compliant, no doubt her life experience clued her in toward Erica's emotional state.
"Okay, Campione arise from a human killing a god. But why? What's the connection?"
"Truthfully little is known about the procedure. But what is known is that a group of deities sympathetic to humanity oversee the Campione ritual. From their unknown motives they determine who is worthy to ascend to the ranks of Campione."
Jace raised an eyebrow. "Other gods are creating their mortal enemies? That makes no sense. Who would create a weapon to destroy themselves? What purpose could that serve? Do they control the Campione?"
Lucretia shrugged. "Who knows."
Jace crossed his arms. "That's it?" His tone was skeptical.
Smirking again Lucretia voice became filled with the wisdom of own her true age. "It is not the place of humans to question the gods. Even if we knew it wouldn't change anything. We benefit from the bulwark the God-Slaying Kings form between weak humanity and the mighty other. Although if it soothes you, I dare say no one is capable of controlling a King."
Jace knew Lucretia wasn't lying, all the signs of a liar were absent from her. The human(?) giant relented on the topic. "Answer this then. What kind of changes does someone undergo during this… rebirth? Because I was nearly knifed to death, fell to death, and… other forms of death in the past couple of days. None of it stuck obviously." Jace bit his tongue. None of the others noticed but he had nearly said something before.
"Why you've become superman."
Silence.
"Superman? Zola does it look like I'm wearing fetish tights right now." Jace's scowl was fiery.
Lucretia openly giggled as an answer. Jace's scowl became murderous.
Sensing the danger of angering Jace Armell further Lucretia heeded her instincts and became serious. "In all seriousness Campione are superhumanly durable. Most mortal weapons will simply be unable to cause you harm. In addition, you'll find you possess god-like stamina and recovery. There are likely many hidden physical benefits, but Campione are so rare documenting them, when amenable, is difficult. More important is the esoteric properties of Campione. Namely their greatest weapons: Authorities." Cue dramatic moment.
Silence.
Lucretia pouted at the lackluster response. She knew the two girls would have little reaction, but the two men should have been more curious. Killjoys in her mind.
"I know, why don't we have some refreshments before we continue. We have been talking for some time and the day does grow late." Lucretia's suggestion was well received.
The four teens waited for Lucretia to get up. She did not. Noticing their stares, she put a hand to her cheek. "Oh, I'm far too tired to get up and about. I drained all my magical reserves helping diffuse a battle between two gods earlier this month."
"What?! You witnessed Heretic Gods doing battle and made no mention of it till now." Erica was shouting, not talking.
"It's not like I kept it a secret. I told the magician societies of Italy. I just saw no point in brining it up till now." Erica had a vein throbbing at her temple, vexed by the lackadaisical attitude Lucretia was exhibiting.
"What are the identities of these gods?"
"Mmm. How about this, bring me some wine and I'll gladly tell you what I know." Lucretia said with a winning smile.
()
It had been over two hours since the four teens had begun their discussion with Lucretia Zola. It was an extremely informing two hours. The dialog mainly focused on what concrete information regarding Campione Erica and Lucretia could impart onto Jace. All in all, Jace had found it somewhat less than satisfying. There were still multiple unknowns that bothered him. Who were Pandora and accomplices. What was it like to Usurp a God's Authority. And most importantly why did Lucretia Zola refer to him so confidently as a Campione.
"Zola I still don't understand why you're so confident I'm a Campione. I never said I killed a Heretic God, neither has anyone else." Jace rubbed his chin. That was still bothering him.
"Hehe. Your Majesty, Lucretia can sense your power. I also had a little vision of you in your fight against a god." Lucretia drunkenly slurred her words. She had been indulging in wine rather liberally for a while now.
"A vision she says. Visions are supposed to be vague and stuff. Anyways I still don't believe it fully -hic." Erica's words were less slurred, but her loose speech belied her intoxicated state. She'd been attempting to keep up with Lucretia after the earth witch had issued a challenge.
"Nothing to say Lady-Zola-hic. Hah I knew it. Arianna fill my glass."
"Blandelli-san."
"What is it, Arianna? I said more wine."
"That's what I'm trying to tell you. I'm not Arianna-san. Arianna-san is already asleep." Godou sighed. He'd said this for the tenth time already. Erica's plastered state was incredibly stubborn. Though in Jace's opinion there was little difference besides the looser tongue.
"Arianna wine now!" Erica shoved her glass in Godou's face spilling a bit of wine on him.
"Gah, is everyone like this when drunk?!" Godou recoiled.
"No. No they are not." Jace looked to each of the three drunkards. Distaste was plain as day in his eyes. He'd vehemently refused any alcohol offered with unusual passion from the giant of a man.
"Consider it a lesson to stay away from that poison. Bloody shit will just ruin your life." Jace solemnly stated. Godou didn't think too much of the way Jace talked. Had the Japanese youth, he might have found it odd. Jace so far had barely shown any form of discomfort over anything. For him to display it now was odd.
"Yeah, I think you might be right. Blandelli-san I think you've had enough wine. Blandelli-san?" Godou attempted to stop Erica's drinking rampage. He really didn't need to though. Because Erica had already passed out. Gently snoring Erica's head hung down toward her chest.
"And the drunk passed out. Of course." Jace snorted in derision.
"Oh dear. It seems the Great Knight had too much wine. Well, it is getting late anyways. Boys would you please take these ladies to a bed?" Lucretia batted her eyelashes seductively.
Godou rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. Jace rumbled, not particularly wanting to handle a drunkard. "Fine. But this discussion isn't over yet Zola. I still have some questions." Though Jace acquiesced, if only because of the small debt he recognized he owed to Erica and Lucretia for imparting so much knowledge. Jace Armell was a man who paid back his debts.
"I swear if she vomits on me though…" Jace lightly grabbed Erica, pulling her up. When she rag-dolled he was forced to carry her bridal style. If any bit of fortunate, the blond's slender body was extremely light to the Campione. Godou on the other hand was having a somewhat more difficult time carrying the black-haired maid. He attempted to lift the black-haired maid much the same but stopped short with a grimace of pain. "Stupid injury." Giving up on lifting Arianna he instead leaned her short frame on his body, dragging her along.
Taking pity on Godou, Jace allowed the weaker man to lay Arianna on the sole sofa downstairs. Instead Jace carried Erica upstairs to a room.
"Arriannaa get my dress." Erica was roused somewhat from the commotion, but not enough to totally regain her senses.
"I'm not the maid. Really want a man to undress you?" Jace drawled. He really didn't want this to happen.
"Arianna!" Erica was not relenting in her drunken state.
"Fine. But don't blame me in the morning Blandelli." Jace caved. Better do want she wants rather than her crying and moaning.
Once unzipped Jace gently placed the young woman on the bed. Gently placed meaning flopping backwards on the bed. Jace looked over Erica Blandelli.
Simply put she was beautiful. Easily on par or even greater beauty than Lucretia to his eyes. Her blond hair was silken gold. It delicately fanned out beneath her head. Her small nose puffed out little bursts of air as she breathed. Said breathing gently rose and fell a generous bosom. One covered only by a white lace bra. Many a men would have fought to have a look at the normally proud woman in such a state. A few might have taken advantage of the situation to indulge in lewd fantasies.
None of it mattered to Jace. His gaze was entirely dispassionate. He was no hormonal teenager waiting to get his rocks off. Nor a rapist considering Erica's absolutely plastered state. Oh, physically Erica Blandelli was attractive enough to warrant some desire from Jace.
But.
One hand rubbed at his rib cage just above where the kidney normally resides. The scar was no longer there, another small blessing from becoming a Campione. But the memory remained and the lesson it had taught him. Better than not to get involved. Especially with a stubborn-ass woman like Erica Blandelli.
Jace turned away leaving Erica alone. He made his way out of the room, heading back downstairs.
"Not enjoying an evening of fun your Majesty?" Lucretia wanly smiled at Jace as he re-entered her bedroom.
A snort. "Fun? There's no fun in shoving your dick in someone who's alive as a vegetable. Now sober up Zola. I said I have questions and I want answers." Jace's tone lacked all humor.
Which despite its harshness, caused the earth witch to smile more brightly. She was well pleased with the Campione's restraint. "Very well your majesty. What do you wish to know?"
"Teach me about Grimoires. I got a feeling that it's going to come in handy soon enough."
()
Authority Highlight
Verethragna
[Boar]: Verethragna's avatar of destruction, that which is said to be able to trample anything. When active the Authority transmutes Verethragna into a giant fiery boar. Exceptionally hardy, requires a countering Authority to bring down effectively. Able to emit sonic waves in the form of a roar, to batter distant targets.
[Youth]: Verethragna's avatar of fertility and healing. Represented as Verethragna's default form, that of a hale youth. Grants the ability to bestow divine protection on recipients, even on those who object. Grants command over lesser entities via charisma. Can be overcome by those with strong wills.
[Gale]: Verethragna's avatar of protection over the people. Grants him the ability to control wind or outright become a gale, can be used offensively or defensively.
Language Highlights:
Japanese
Onii-san: Respectful way of calling an older brother.
Imouto: Non-specific way of calling a younger sibling.
Italian
Che cosa: Expression of confusion. What?