Redundancy : Chapter 9 - Final Apostle.

~10,814 words

"Empty threats and theatrics. Is that truly the extent of your human capabilities?" Perugius sneered, his voice dripping with scorn and mockery. He exuded a condescending air as he sought to assert dominance over Julian, trying to look down on him. 

As his lips moved, preparing to launch another volley of insults, his first word barely escaped his mouth as Julian's fist collided forcefully with the dragon gate, creating a violent impact. The punch generated a shockwave that rippled through the air and left behind a fist-shaped crater within the wall, located a yard or two away from Perugius. 

His eyes widened. Masking his emotions, he sneered once again. "Did picking up crumbs from the ground left by the late Dragon God Orsted filled you with this self-confidence?" Insults came out of Perguis' mouth relentlessly, each one aiming to strike a nerve inside Julian. 

"You know..." Julian spoke as his features darkened, "...an empty pot makes the loudest noise. So, I will pick your words. Empty words and theatrics, they won't get to me. And they certainly won't help in compensating for your lack of strength." 

As the words completely left Julian's lips, something struck Perguis' head. Having a height advantage, Julian swung his feet above his head before landing it on his head like a heavy club, making his spine bend as he was brought down to his knee. 

Perguis swung his arm aimlessly, unleashing his hand sword technique "Break", however, Julian was gone. The [Break] technique, made a wide gash into the place where Julian was. Rudeus shifted, the light sword landing a deep wound into his arm up to his shoulder, however, he kept his eyes shut. 

He was preparing something. And Perguis could sense it. 

"Seize Rudeus Greyrat." He cried out as 3 familiars jumped at him. However, their weapons collided against a barrier, deflecting their blows. 

Perguis' knee suddenly bent as he fell back to his feet. Looking down he saw his knee broken and the shattered bone jutting out of his skin, the synovial fluid flowing out of it. 

Looking back, he saw Julian standing in front of the throne Perguis was sitting on a while ago. He traced his finger on the armrest, slowly caressing it. A picture of himself in that throne flashed in his mind. He shook his head, getting rid of those thoughts. 

[Barrier Magic: Imprison]

The familiar words ringed in Julian's mind as the whole room was washed in a light red colour. Blood red chains erupted from beneath Rudeus, imprisoning every familiar in the blink of an eye. Because the chains sapped the target of mana, and since familiars were made of mana, their presences started fading almost instantly. 

Placing a limiter on his spell, Rudeus placed a seal on them, jugging them in a suspended state of death. 

Julian appeared behind Perguis. He turned back, the dragon gate following him. However, the red blur cut cleanly through the gate. The two ends of the dragon gate fell to the either side as he towered over Perguis. Julian's hand softly pressed against his neck, his thumb pressing his larynx inward. His bulky body was lifted in the air, his golden eyes extremely shocked as he looked into his. 

"The kid was a girl. So, don't worry about it being Laplace. I tolerated it this time. Next time, I will kill you. If one of kids is Laplace, it is my problem to deal with it. Try it again, and all of your familiars along with you will die." Julian pressed his hand even harder against his skin, igniting them on flames. 

The flames ignited with a miniscule spark before bursting out like a contained explosion on the inner side of his hand. Perguis' skin melted, the nauseating smell spreading throughout the room. Perguis only clenched his teeth. "Am I clear, Armoured Dragon King?" 

Throwing away his pride, he looked at Julian with the same scorn, and the words that came out of his mouth were entirely opposite of his outward demeanor. "Yes." 

Placing him down carefully, Julian adjusted his collars and dusted off the bits of his own flesh from his shoulders. "It wasn't that hard, right? Anyways, we will take our leave now. Please adhere to your words." Julian advised softly before sheathing his sword and walking towards Rudeus who was leaning against his staff. 

Perguis stayed quiet, the embarrassment killing him from inside. If he could dig a grave and throw himself inside it, he would've done it by now. However, his vow to kill Laplace refrained him from doing so. 

The embarrassment would die out once he dies. Humans have a short life after all. However, as long as Julian would stay alive, every breath would feel like a punishment to Perguis. So, from that day onward, he prayed for him to die every day. After all, that is all he could do. 

Pray. 

The fighting style taught to him by Orsted was something that enraged Perguis, since it was a secret technique of the Dragon God Urupen. However, there wasn't much to do now. He first thought that since Orsted's protection was gone, he could target Julian now. Take his revenge for killing his familiar. However, he was too late. 

And it wasn't just him. He could've definitely captured Julian if he was alone. Using his familiars as a distraction, and using Chaos Breaker infinitesimally resurrect them, he could've worn him down. However, Rudeus' presence did not allow him to do so. 

The birth of two new God classes was something that Perguis had seen over the past many years. Centuries had passed in his life, but never once in his life did, he ever saw humans of this caliber. The balance of power and authority could tip in a singular place if they wanted to. 

Thankfully, none of the brothers were interested in doing something as outrageous as that. 

As Julian and Rudeus were about to leave, Julian fired a farewell [Convergence] which gathered the debris over the Chaos Breaker before fading in power and dropping all of it over the castle, making half of it fall to the ground. 

(***)

2 DAYS LATER

Julian returned home after two days; his journey having taken several detours with Rudeus before they finally reached their destination---back home. 

As he swung open the front door, he mentally prepared himself for the expected chaos. He imagined the house would be in disarray, and the ear busting cries of his children would assault his ears. However, the scene that greeted him was not what he had anticipated.

A profound quiet hung in the air, a stark contrast to the bustling atmosphere he had envisaged. 

The interior of the house lay cloaked in dimness, with all the curtains drawn to block out the daylight. Only a few slender shafts of sunlight managed to slip through the gaps in the curtains, casting light on the occasional speck of dust suspended in the still air in a straight beam.

The metal door behind him creaked open. Looking over his shoulder, he saw Norn and Aisha walk towards the house. Norn was carrying a huge bag on her shoulders, her gaze downcast as she struggled to walk, while Aisha was quite nonchalant, carrying only one book in her hand which she swung here and there. 

"Brother!" Aisha's eyes lightened up as she ran up to him. With an excited squeal, she wrapped her hands around him, hugging him tightly. Norn also caught up to Aisha and Julian, breathing heavily. 

Julian slipped his finger underneath the strap on her shoulder and lifted it up. She squirmed away, letting Julian pick it up for her. 

"You're back! Where were you these two days?" Aisha asked, smiling from ear to ear as she looked up at him. 

"A few things. I was with Rudeus." He replied shortly, glancing over at Norn. She seemed to be a bit quite that usual. 

"What happened to Norn?" Julian asked Aisha instead of her. He knew she was going to hide whatever it was. 

Norn's eyes widened as she glared daggers at Aisha. 

She let out a smirk as she hid between Julian. "She was being teased by a few boys." 

"Aisha!" 

Norn screamed at her, trying to chase her as she hid herself behind Julian. 

"Hm? Boys?" Julian asked, his throat parched. 

"It's not like that, brother. I just overheard them say something about me. They didn't say anything to me directly." Norn explained, visibly terrified. 

"What did they say?" Julian asked, his voice getting softer. 

"N-Nothing special..." 

"They said Norn's chest was squishy." Aisha landed the bombshell, making Norn's face go pale. 

"..." 

Julian looked stupefied. Almost as if he was surprised at the audacity. 

Julian lowered down at Norn's eye-level. "Do you like that boy?" 

"Huh!? Not at all. Why would I like someone like him?!" 

"Then why are you defending him?" Julian tilted his head. 

"Well...I don't want you to pick fights with anyone. It's not about you being weak or strong. I just don't want you to get in trouble because someone said something about my body. Comments like these are common for girls. So don't worry too much, brother." Norn explained, her eyes downcast. 

"Hm. Well, I won't say anything to them. If that gives you peace of mind." Julian spoke, standing up. 

"Haaah...thanks brother. I really don't want to bother you about such trivial stuff. Especially now that you're a father yourself. So, thanks again for understanding."

"Hm, yeah. No problem." Julian nodded his head. "Go inside and take a bath. You seem knackered." 

"Ah, yes. I participated in a few club activities today. It's a bit humid today." 

"Yeah." 

Exchanging a few more words, Norn fled inside, feeling embarrassed that Aisha told him about that matter. Aisha turned on her heel. "Well? Brother? Am I growing up nicely as well?" She asked with a grin. 

"You are a bit taller than before. So, I'd say you're doing pretty well." 

"You know that is not what I mean." The smirk never left her face. 

"Hm. You are my sister, so I can't really evaluate it. Even if I have to, I need to feel something. Which I don't." 

"So cold...hehe. Just kidding." She gave him a wild smile. 

"Do you not get complicated at school?" Julian asked, curiously. 

"Hmmm, I did. But they were quite older than me. Also, I wasn't interested." She shrugged her shoulders. 

"Well, there is no need to rush anything. You are free to do what you want. When you have that liberty, why even accelerate the process." Julian explained. 

"Fair point." She nodded as well. "Oh, by the way, brother?" 

"Yes?" Julian asked, looking in her direction as he placed Norn's bag on the couch nearby. 

"Ariel is leaving tomorrow. You might want to spend a little time with her." 

He wasn't aware why would she leave so suddenly. 

"Thanks for the heads-up." Julian patted her head. "Oh, how is school?" 

"Honestly?" 

"Honestly." 

"I hate it. I don't want to study. I can learn magic and sword from you. Learning from the professors instead of you feels such a fall from grace. It's like I am purposefully deteriorating my learning opportunities and my overall capabilities." She spoke angrily. "Do you know? I learnt more from you in 1 month than what I learnt in all these months from those "best" professirs. I hate that place so much." 

"Looks like you had quite a load to get off your chest." Julian replied, surprised at the amount of her rant. 

"Of course. You should've observed beforehand. Phew. That felt good to let out of my system." She sighed contently. 

"Hmm. Well, I have a few things that need proper management. If you wan---" 

"I'll do it!" 

"I didn't complete my sentence." 

"Doesn't matter. I'll do it." 

"Are you sure?" 

"Yes." There was a glimmer in her eyes that didn't betray the intensity of her words and the tone with which they were spoken. 

"Hm, alright. But you still have to take self-defense classes with Adam." Julian offered. 

"Fine by me. Hm. By the way brother Norn is a bit in---, hm, you know what? Figure it out yourself." She huffed and hopped away with a mischievous look on her face. 

"What is she plotting this time...?" Julian sighed. 

(***)

Julian entered Ariel's room, sneakily, without making a sound. 

He narrowed his eyes as he took in the scene before him. Ariel's room that was usually extremely comfort and tranquil compared to any other room, had been turned into a chaotic mess. Clothes, documents, and various items were scattered across the floor, and her dresser drawers were half empty.

Ariel herself sat on the edge of the bed, her expression a mixture of frustration and exhaustion. 

Her red eyes were puffy from fatigue, and her normally radiant face seemed weighed down by the burden she carried. She looked up when she heard Julian's soft footsteps and managed a tired smile.

"Julian," she greeted him, her voice filled with a mix of weariness and determination. "Welcome back." 

Julian crossed the room to her side. "Nice room."

Ariel sighed and brushed a strand of hair from her face. "I've been organizing the royal documents, Julian. They're long overdue, and I couldn't keep putting it off. Plus, I have important meetings coming up, and I need to be prepared. I have to leave...sadly."

"I see." 

He looked around. Papers were strewn about, some crumpled, others folded haphazardly. The previously meticulous dresser was now turned upside down, with clothes and garments hastily stuffed into an open bag, their colorful sleeves and fabrics spilling out like vibrant tongues.

A scattering of opened books, their pages marked with hurried notes and annotations, added to the chaotic landscape. The large mirror atop the dresser was askew, reflecting the disarray of the room.

As his eyes roved over the disarray, they finally settled on a heartwarming sight—little Xavier, nestled within the midst of the tumult.

There, amidst the flurry of garments and documents, was the infant, wrapped in a patchwork of colorful fabrics and snuggled up in a nest of his mother's clothing. His tiny fingers were entwined with the soft materials, as if unwilling to let go. 

A blissful smile graced his plump cheeks, rosy and cherubic in his slumber.

Xavier lay sprawled over Ariel's clothing, his head resting on a soft pillow where he had found the most comforting and familiar haven. His little mouth pursed and released soft sighs, matched by the rise and fall of his chest as he breathed deeply. 

Noticing he was sleeping on his chest; Julian moved closer to Ariel and turned him over. 

"God... I didn't even notice that..." Ariel spoke with a sigh, removing the layers of clothing from him that tangled him, raising his arm and legs in a weird pose. 

"You are tired." Julian spoke as he sat beside her. The mattress bounced due to his weight, slightly juddering Xavier's sleeping form. 

She looked at her own lap. "Not tired really. Just a bit hesitant to go back." 

"I see." 

"Won't you ask why?" 

"I won't force you to tell me." Julian shrugged. 

"Well, certainly, it is because of you. I am going to miss you." She spoke with a pout, kicking air. 

"You can visit any time." Julian explained, looking at the cream coloured ceiling. 

"I know but staying here with you all the time is better. Also, travelling takes months." She sounded dejected. Slowly, creeping closer, she placed her hand on Julian's hand. "It has been some time, hasn't it?" She asked, her eyes like that of a predator, glimmering with a certain feeling. 

Julian placed a hand on her forehead. "Xavier is here." He spoke as he jerked his head to the side to indicate towards him. The little boy was sleeping soundly, his chest rising up and down rhythmically. 

With a dejected face, she leaned back and slipped her back against the plush pillows. 

"I will accompany you to Asura when you leave." Julian said as he stood up and picked up Xavier. Scooping him up and gently cradling him in his arms, he gently placed him into his crib. "Be ready." He said before walking towards the door. 

"Hmph, ok." She looked the other way, "Bye." 

"Who said I was going?" Julian asked. His hand wasn't turning the handle to open, but rather on the deadbolt, locking the door. The bolt locked itself in place with a metallic clink as she looked up with a renewed fervour, a feverish look on her face. 

As Julian walked closer, she held his arm and pulled him with all the force she could muster. Julian plopped down, his back still not touching the bed. However, she jumped up into his lap, slamming her face against him. The pony holding her hair upwards in a bun came off as her golden blonde hair came tumbling down like a waterfall comprising of pure gold. 

The light shade of her hair was accentuated with the dim candlelight as she closed her eyes, breathing heavily from her nose, her hands almost clawing at him, starting from the back of Julian's head to his face, sometimes roaming all over his chest. 

Julian didn't react as he simply extended his hands backward, supporting his own and Ariel's weight. Her breaths only became more and more erratic with the passage of time, her uncontained wildness leaking out of every pore of her being as her moans grew harder, her tongue pressing against the bottom of his mouth. 

Her hand slipped inside his shirt from the gap between his shirt buttons as she caressed his skin. 

*thwack*

Ariel's eyes went wide as she saw Julian seeing straight into her eyes, her cheek stinging from the pain of the mild slap from Julian on her face. The blush on her face grew deeper, as she held his hand and leaned closer towards his face, making her way to his ear. "How well do you know me?" She asked, nibbling at his ear. 

"I know enough." Julian replied as he forcefully gripped her arms and switched positions, throwing her on the bed with such force that it creaked audibly. 

Xavier shifted in the cradle, letting out a grumble. With a flick of his finger, Julian casted a small veil over his crib before returning his attention to Ariel. Her golden strands were sprawled all over the place, like the roots of an ancient tree, reaching every corner of the bed while covering left half of her face. 

A few moments later, her clothes were torn away from her and were tossed on the ground, followed by a harsh night. 

(***)

As the new day dawned, the room bathed in a soft, golden light. The morning sun, casting warm tendrils of light through the curtains, kissed Julian and Ariel's entwined forms.

A slight, warm breeze seeped in through the open windows, carrying with it the prospective of a sweltering day ahead. The birds outside were already beginning to sing their morning serenade, a chorus that welcomed the early hours with cheer.

Julian and Ariel laid intertwined in the warm cocoon of their bed, their bare forms illuminated by the soft, morning glow. The tangled sheets were crumpled up---an indication to the intimacy, visible from their entwined limbs---a passionate night spent together.

Ariel's delicate frame was nestled against Julian's broad chest, her head tucked into the crook of his neck. The tangled sheets bore witness to the intimacy of their entwined limbs, the essence of a passionate night spent together.

Their breathing was harmonious, hearts beating in sync. Julian's arm was wrapped firmly around Ariel, securing her form against his own. A layer of tangible warmth formed between the bare skins, sticking them even closer. 

With her eyes closed, Ariel appeared to be lost in dreams, her faces reflecting a peaceful serenity. Yet, the morning's interlude was broken by the shrill cry of their infant son, Xavier. His cries rang out with a mix of annoyance and exuberance, as if crying for attention and care.

Both Ariel and Julian stirred, their bodies aligning naturally even in their half-awake state. Julian nudged Ariel, tugging at her hair. Her eyes opened as she looked down at Julian's sleeping form and then back at Xavier who was crying. 

'I lost control again...' 

She thought to herself, a splitting headache invading her mind. 

However, before she could move, Eva walked in. She spotted Ariel and bowed in her direction, however, seeing how elevated her posture was, it seemed like she was sleeping on something. Or someone. Her face flushed with a dark colour of crimson as she ran towards the crib, picked Xavier up and in a near instant ran out, shutting the door behind her. 

Julian opened his eyes as well, his vision doubling. He let out a tired groan, his legs almost numb. He squirmed comfortably under her feathery weight before looking back at her. She straightened, placing her arms on his shoulders as she raised her hips. 

Like a trapped hamster, Julian could only submit to the impending doom that awaited him. 

(***)

"Are you sure you will be fine?" Nanahoshi asked, tracing her finger over Julian's pale face, currently having no energy to talk. 

"Yeah. It's just a few hours away. Just dropping them in the castle and then I'll be back." Julian reassured, removing Nanahoshi's hands from his face and holding them still. 

"If you say so... take care, okay?" There was an unbridled amount of worry etched on her features, the sight of Julian acting so out of energy was something that she was experiencing for the first time. 

"Yeah. Right. Ok." Julian gave out short replies, wobbling towards the carriage. There seemed to be some kind of unspoken split in the family for now. Julian noticed it on his way to the carriage. Not everyone was present to see Ariel off. As a matter of fact, only Nanahoshi was. 

Roxy wanted to be present as well, however, she was nearing labour so she wasn't allowed to move much. 

Julian sat inside the carriage and the door behind them closed as Julian casted one last look at his house before the small crevice disappeared with a dull thud. Adjusting himself inside, he placed a small pillow behind his back before leaning back. 

Ariel was sitting in front of him, dressed in her usual royal dress, befitting of her stature as the queen of the Kingdom of Asura. Xavier was seated right beside Julian, looking at the unfamiliar ceiling of the carriage with wide eyes, like two bright orbs of curiosity as he tilted his head to either side alternatively to get a better understanding of where he was. 

A small pull on the carriage indicated their departure as the carriage rattled and started moving. The dull, barely perceivable sound of horses' hooves clattering and the wheels rolling on the ground filled their ears. Xavier's ears perked up as he removed his attention from the ceiling and started looking in all directions. 

It seemed quite obvious how he never went out of his room or the house in general. His other two kids seemed to be quite accustomed to such sounds. 

With his head resting in his palm, Julian noticed Xavier, reacting to everything with an uncanny level of intrigue. 

"How was your stay here?" Julian asked, still looking at him as he tried to hold on to the soft, velvety fabric of the seats and trying to stand up on his feet. His feet wobbled, knees bending. However, Julian refrained from interrupting. 

Ariel looked up from the parchment she was reading and matched his line of sight. She was about to speak but stayed silent, crossing one over the other as the long dress slightly slid off, revealing her small-heeled sandals as she watched the two with a smile on her face. 

With his tiny fingers still clutching on to the fabric with a vice grip, he finally managed to stay on his own two feet, despite the violent judder of the carriage as it ticked off from the smooth road that extended for 2 kilometers from Julian's house and on to the undulating road that led towards the nearest teleportation circle. 

Seeing that he was standing on his own two feet without a problem, Ariel began talking. "It was quite a good experience. I thought that after living in the academy for so long, I would love to live back in the castle. And I did. But after I came back here, I don't want to really leave now. It was quite relaxing." She spoke while looking at Xavier who looked around and then smiled, proud of his own achievement. 

"I see. Any sort of inconveniences?" He asked again, leaning against the window. 

"None." She replied, her expressions relaxed. "I had quite a good time here. I was not able to associate much with your family, but I guess they all have been through some tough times. So, no hard feelings there. It was an experience. A good one." 

Xavier removed one hand off the support, now standing with just a single hand aiding him. "Habit of lying is contagious. But you have a quite a talent for it." Julian commented, still watching Xavier without moving in to help in case of a potential mishap. 

"I will take that as a compliment. Thank you very much." She placed her chin on middle and index finger before leaning to the side and placing the side of her head against the window of the carriage. "I have been practicing since I was born. Lying is second nature to me. Much like you." She spoke with a mischievous smirk. 

Julian shrugged. "I don't lie. Well, not entirely." 

"That makes it worse." Ariel replied with a slight giggle. 

Julian brushed off the mockery. "Want to talk about it?" 

"I don't think it requires talking. Neither do I care about it. Nor you, likewise, hold no regard for the matter in question. So, let's leave it at that. I made some very good memories here." She replied with a solemn smile. 

"Hm, if you say so." Julian asked. Finding nothing else to do for the time being, Julian looked back at the little ball of energy. "When did he learn to stand up?" 

"Hmm. You haven't been around much, but both Luna and Xavier could stand with support ever since they were five months old. Elijah was a bit late. But yeah. They have been able to stand for quite some time now. Although, there hasn't been much development as of late." Ariel explained. 

Julian raised a brow and looked down at him. He was hopping on the seat, or rather trying to, matching the tandem of up and down locomotion of the carriage. "Normally kids don't stand until they are six and half to nine months." 

Ariel looked astonished. "Really? Well, I guess, since he is yours, that would make sense if he is doing things at a much younger age." She spoke with beaming pride. 

Julian away from Xavier. "I said most. It's not uncommon. There is a major contingent who start crawling, walking and talking before the average age group. Nothing to do with me, really." He shrugged his shoulders. 

"Can't you just admire your son?" She narrowed her eyes, shifting in her seat as she changed her posture, and this time swung her left foot over the other. 

"Uh...I am?" 

"Sure, you are." She replied with a parodying tone. 

Xavier wobbled as the carriage hit a small rock and lost his balance. Falling straight with his back towards the ground, he landed in Julian's lap. Or rather his head did. 

"Ouch..." 

Julian groaned, shifting, as Xavier looked up in surprise. His eyes almost glimmered with tears, his cheeks turning red. Ariel was about to move but Julian motioned for her to not move and not say anything. 

Worry gripped on her features, but it subsided as she saw the tears in Xavier's eyes disappear, replaced by the same genuinely curious look. Meanwhile, Julian's face was red. His own son did second most damage to him after Orsted---even more than the world powers. Julian almost saw his life flash in front of his eyes. 

Xavier almost broke Julian's family jewels. With a headbutt. Accidental at that. 

(***)

The dull thrumming in the air subsided, followed by the bright white light that dimmed out almost instantaneously, in tandem with the sound as the carriage arrived on a smooth road that led to the inside of the main region of Asura---towards the main castle. 

A chill breeze rustled the leaves of the tall, ancient trees that lined the road, forming a towering green canopy that stretched high above the royal carriage. Julian and Ariel were not sitting side by side inside the ornate carriage. 

Sunlight spilled in from the windows, highlighting its polished mahogany interior adorned with crimson velvet upholstery. Ariel's eyes were closed, leaning against Julian's shoulder, breathing calmly. Xavier sat calmly in Julian's lap, playing with his own fingers as he let out dramatic voices. 

As the carriage rumbled along the cobblestone path, the royal castle came into view, its imposing silhouette almost tyrannising the horizon. Its towering spires and intricate stonework created a vision of grandeur---befitting the residence of a royal family.

But as they drew nearer to the castle, the carriage's speed continued to simmer down until it slowed down to a halt, a kilometer away from the grand entrance. The sudden change in atmosphere and the tug jolted Ariel from her short nap as she opened her eyes, still leaning against him. 

Xavier looked back, bending his neck back. Julian turned him over, so he was facing him, so he could stop attempting at breaking his neck. 

"Why are we stopping here?" Ariel inquired; her cerulean eyes alight with bafflement. Her delicate features held a slight hint of concern as she searched for an explanation.

"I don't want anyone to know about me. Just yet," Julian murmured, the last bit of his voice a soft caress, barely audible. 

Ariel nodded, her gaze steady and understanding. She smiled, though a shadow of unease flickered in her sapphire eyes. She couldn't deny the slight sting in her heart, a fleeting sense of not being fully accepted. But she brushed it aside, recognizing that such feelings were unwarranted. 

She had never sought approval from anyone but Julian, and that was all that mattered.

The carriage door opened, and the cold breeze wafted inside, carrying the scent of the approaching castle gardens. Julian's wide frame provided a comforting shield against the outside world, but it was time for him to leave.

Despite seeming completely unfazed, as he stepped out of the carriage onto the cobblestone path, Ariel couldn't help but feel a pang of longing, aching at the thought of their unknown period of separation.

Xavier, their now seven-month-old son had transferred laps, now sitting in Ariel's lap, his bright blue eyes curiously observing his father's departure. The sight of Julian leaving stirred a response from the baby, who had grown accustomed to his presence.

With a soft cry, Xavier reached out with chubby hands towards Julian, his small fingers grasping at the air, quickly curling and uncurling as if trying to hold onto his Julian's departing figure. Ariel lips pursed at the sight of her son's distress.

Julian peaked back in and ruffled Xavier's soft blonde hair with a straight face. Looking down, he looked straight into his eyes. Xavier stopped crying, softly sniffing. "Better." 

Ariel was a bit surprised but shrugged it off. "See you later." Julian said. 

As the carriage door clicked shut, leaving Ariel and Xavier enclosed within, Julian stepped away from the carriage and turned his gaze towards the magnificent royal castle. Ariel watched him disappear from view; her heart heavy with the desire. 

Julian sighed as he walked off. Looking at the sky, his eyes squinted as he felt the piercing light stab his eyes. Looking down at his palm, he saw the lines on his hand blur. "It is catching up..." 

(***)

The grandeur of the royal castle's entrance was a sight to behold. 

The massive, intricately carved doors of dark oak stood open, revealing a vast courtyard beyond. 

An assembly of knights, clad in shining armor, and magicians with their staffs and wands at the ready, formed an impressive display of power and authority as they stood in an imposing formation. 

As Ariel's carriage came to a halt, the air got tense with anticipation as the swords of the knights were already unsheathed, their polished blades glistening in the sunlight while the gems inside the magician's staffs started to glow.

Five maids, their dresses of deep crimson matching the castle's banners, and two warriors approached the carriage. The maids, their eyes veiled with a sense of formality, stepped forward to open the carriage door.

The two warriors behind walked closely, with huge smiles on their faces. One of them was big enough to be deemed as a human mountain, adorned with metal armour from head to toe and a giant axe strapped to his back. The other man was of decent height, with long black hair and red eyes. 

The queen, Ariel, emerged from the carriage with a regal air. She maintained a confident posture and a stern expression as her eyes scanned the gathering of knights and magicians. Her presence was commanding, evident from the silence that had ensued from her emergence, like an iron-clad grip on their breaths. 

The only sound that accentuated the silence was the sound of seagulls hovering the harbour in the faraway distance, echoing. 

The knights, extended their arms up and raised their swords high, creating a metal canopy of blades, forming a passage for the queen to traverse. The sound of clashing sword metal and loose points in armour echoed through the courtyard as the swords reached toward the sky, a symbol of honor and respect for their queen.

The magicians also raised their staffs, casting a beautiful veil over the passage where Ariel would walk in a while. 

"We welcome the queen!" The assembly shouted in unison, their voices stentorian and unwavering. The chorus of their declaration rang out, an acknowledgment of Ariel's position. Everyone had a happy look on their faces, especially the soldiers among whom Ariel had most support in, and the origin point of her first emergence as a candidate for the throne. 

However, as Ariel fully stepped out of the carriage and descended to the ground, the smiles slowly, subtly, painfully started to die out. 

A murmur began to ripple through the assembly. Their uniformed façade began to crumble, revealing the whispers of uncertainty that hung in the air. The cause of this unrest was not the queen herself, but the sight of a boy nestled securely in her arms.

His bright golden hair glinted in the sunlight---the same shade as Ariel, and his cerulean eyes radiating surprise, unease and discomfort oat the same time in the presence of so many people. 

His presence, though striking and strong, was not what the assembly had expected. A buzz of murmurs and whispered conversations spread through the knights and magicians, their voices charged with surprise and uncertainty.

Ariel's visage remained resolute and unwavering, her expression conveying the authority of a queen who knew her duty. She signaled for one of the waiting maids, who stepped forward to receive the young prince from her arms. 

The transaction was conducted with an air of formality, though the eyes of the assembly remained fixed upon the queen and her unexpected companion.

The murmurs grew louder, rising in a collective tumult of voices. The knights and magicians, bound by tradition and protocol, appeared less interested in the queen's arrival and more engrossed in the unexpected presence of the young boy who they could only assume as their young prince.

Their lack of regard for the queen's presence did not go unnoticed. Ariel, with her unwavering gaze, took in the disquiet among her subjects. Her jaw tightened, the stern expression deepening. 

However, she took a deep breath. The ripples of uncertainty were but a passing disturbance, like a brief gust of wind. 

'It will be okay.' She reassured herself. 

Yet, as she moved forward, her steps echoing in the courtyard, Ariel couldn't help but feel a lingering disquiet in the face of her subjects' murmurs. She could feel eyes of scrutiny and scorn on her. Almost as if people who were so happy to see her until a while ago were now looking at her with various looks; some confusion, some repugnance, some in an unjustified mortification. 

"Should this be the character of a queen? Birthing kids off random denizens?" 

A "supposedly" hushed murmur, that was a bit too loud for comfort reached her ears, which was even further accentuated by the silence that followed right after he said that. 

"Who said that?" The man with neck-length black hair spoke, his voice creaking out with an ominous crack. He took out something strapped to his belt. At first it seemed like a sword. However, it was a simple metallic rod with a sharp tip. The tip was bent back. It wasn't even made for stabbing. 

Ariel looked back, her eyes sharp, like a predator. 

Gone was the usual smile that graced her lips no matter what the situation was. 

"Go on. Why don't you reveal yourself." She spoke, her eyes fixed on someone as if she knew who it was. "You there. Black cape." 

The man gasped. Before the black-haired man could move, the tall statured one leaned forward, his armour clad hand grabbing the man by his head. The man screamed as he picked him up from his head, constantly applying force as his thumb punctured the forehead, the breakage of bones audible. 

"Doga. Stop." Ariel spoke in a low tone as he dropped the man immediately. 

Looking at the black-haired man, she nodded her head. The man bowed his head. "Sir Kalman. I think I can leave this matter to you. Although I don't think it's really necessary given the amount of testimonies but proceed with the trail." 

"Sure thing." He bowed once again, picking the man from his collars as he made him stand on his feet, despite him bleeding from his forehead. "Glad to have you back, my queen." 

She merely nodded her head before turning back. Once she reached the top of the stairs, she faced the assembly of her troops and public once again. Her gaze swept over everyone, taking in the faces of each and every one present there. 

They lowered their gazes, some out of respect, some out of fear. However, there were a few who despite their lowered heads, kept their eyes on her, a hateful look etched on their countenance. With a bubbling feeling of conflict in her heart, she stepped inside. 

(***)

"Pray tell, Your Majesty, what purpose does this serve?" The prime minister spoke, someone who had taken place of Darius after his death, initially appointed by Ariel's father. 

"It is inconceivable, Your Grace, that due to YOUR actions, our kingdom might be held in such ridicule." The one just beside him, the minister of defense spoke. 

"A travesty indeed, my lord, to sully the legacy of our noble forebears with such ignoble actions." Another minister spoke, albeit not to Ariel directly but at the second minister. He could still remember the coup d' teat that he survived because he was too sick to attend. 

"Can it truly be that Her Majesty is entwined with the common rabble? The very thought is absurd." One of Ariel's own advisors shouted. 

Ariel sat on the throne; her face composed but her heart beating like a war drum inside her chest. The reaction she was getting from the number of crucial ministers was enough to throw the general public in chaos, leading to a rebellion. She tapped the armrest with her fingernails in synchronised motion. 

She could order Doga and Alek---Kalman the Second to eliminate the ministers right now, but that would lead to her downfall later, her name being passed as a tyrant. And as of now, her kingdom wasn't very strong after the deaths of many important people because of the coup Julian had arranged. 

"Who is that boy, my liege? Is it true that it is yours? Does that mean that the rumours about when you left on the so-called vacations were true? This affront to our lineage is beyond measure, Your Excellency. How can we maintain our dignity in the face of such scandal?"

"Your Highness, have we fallen so low that even the Queen's honor is at stake?"

"An egregious misstep, Your Lordship, to let our reputation be marred by these unworthy associations."

"How could we stoop so low, Your Grace? It is a dark day for the Asura lineage."

"A grievous affront, Your Excellency, to witness the Queen's name being dragged through the mud."

Every kind of malicious comment was thrown at her. However, the words themselves didn't worry her. There was nothing there for her to regret. She was happy. And if she had the chance, she was ready to do it all over again. 

Her hands suddenly raised up, palm facing the audience of ministers. Currently there were 7 ministers and 4 representatives of the lords of major regions of Asura, that were Fittoa, Milbotts, Donati and Wisir Regions, each one ruled by the houses of Boreas, Notos, Zephyrus and Euros Greyrats. 

Each house had sent a representative to welcome the Queen. Boreas Greyrats had sent James' son, while Notos had sent Luke. Zephyrus had sent the son of their lord while Euros' lord himself was present there. 

Other than them, there were 10 magicians assembled along the perimeter of the throne room. 

Ariel's eyes flicked towards Luke who was looking at her with an even worrisome look on his face. However, as his eyes locked with hers, he smiled a little, his lips cracking open as he tried his best to reassure his childhood friend. Reassure that everything was going to be okay. 

However, fear and a certain degree of indignation clung to him as he wondered where Julian was. Much to the disappointment of both Ariel and Luke, Julian had returned. However, they weren't made aware of the situation. 

Doga and Alek had both gone to their rooms. 

And the anger towards Ariel was reaching its crescendo. The patience had reached it's boiling point. Both, for Ariel and the Prime Minister. 

"Should we take your silence as acceptance to the crime you've committed?" The prime minister asked, raising his chin. 

"Lord Cedric Stormrider." Ariel's voice ringed as the whole room fell into a hush. "Should I find myself compelled enough to seek counsel on the course of my life from a mere servant of the kingdom, such as yourself?" Her voice was razor sharp. 

If a tone and words could kill, her words would've committed multiple murders as she looked down on everyone, her gaze apathetic and full of reproach. Condescending even. 

 The prime minister, Cedric, clenched his fist. 

"Your Highness, I beseech you, this matter transcends your own personage. It concerns the preservation of the sacred traditions and the honour of the illustrious Asura lineage." As he spoke, he looked around, as if demanding agreement from others. 

"True." 

"Very true, indeed." 

As the supporting voices grew, he smirked. "Though I may not claim direct lineage to it, my forebears, too, pledged their lives to shield this realm and ensure its thriving. Witnessing it descend into disarray due to such ignominious and foul deeds is nothing short of an abomination."

There was a blatant disregard for their own queen. Almost as if they were on the verge of rebelling. The open hostility from men who pledged their lives and loyalty to her suddenly made her cautious of a detail. 

Something she had been missing this whole time. The abnormal display of aggression from both Doga and Alek who lost their cool in public, the maid who took Xavier away from her without showing any apparent emotions. Not even a little bit surprised. 

"Luke Notos Greyrat." Ariel called out to him in a formal tone. However, even Luke could tell that it was a pressing matter. 

"Yes, your lordship." 

"Call for Sir Doga and Sir Alek this instant." 

"Yes." 

However, just as Luke took a step towards the door, a magician removed the cloth from his staff. A small gust of wind blasted Luke back on his bum as he looked at the magician and then at Ariel. 

"You bas---" 

Sounds of sword unsheathing resonated throughout the throne room as swordsmen poured inside. 

"Are you out of your mind, Cedric!? Brandishing swords inside the castle equate treason!" Luke screamed at him while the representatives of other Greyrat households also looked at the ministers with wide eyes. 

"That is a punishable offence, yes. I will take responsibility for that. However, what this woman did also equates to a death penalty. Bred with a commoner or not, the kid is still a prince. He can take her place when the prince reaches 15 years of age. Until then, we will run this kingdom in its exact benefit." 

"How dare you..." Ariel's voice seethed through her gritted teeth. The grinding of her teeth was overshadowed by the rapidly pumping blood in her ears. 

"I am not the one to whom this inquiry should be directed, Lady Ariel Asura. The one to bear such scrutiny ought to be yourself. I solemnly pledged to your predecessor that I would guard against the encroachment of any blemish upon this noble realm, built upon the countless toils and sacrifices of our common citizens and noble houses alike. A woman of questionable virtue, a floozie slag such as yourself shall not mar the labors of generations past." He spoke with a disgusted face. "Guards, apprehend her." 

*SHING*

Luke brandished his sword and stood in front of Ariel. 

"Luke Notos Greyrat, your father is well aware of this situation. Please, step aside and do a favor for your elderly sire. We have no desire to dispatch to an aged gentleman the lifeless form of his youthful son. Depart from our presence." Cedric spoke with respect. 

Luke looked back at Ariel. "I swear on my lif---" 

"I know. I know." Ariel replied with a somber look, still sitting in her chair and a calm look on her face. "I know, Luke." 

He let out a deep breath. "Fuck you, old man..." He cursed under his breath, anger exploding like a volcano inside him. "Fine. If death is what will remove me from here, then try me. You won't be reaching our queen until you kill me, traitors!" 

"Traitors? We pledged loyalty to the realm. Not this woman. Step aside, Luke Notos Greyrat. This is the last warning." Cedric emphasised on his family name---Notos---to remind him that the reason why he is not dead is because of his father. His lineage. Aside from that, he carried no worth. No weight or substance in his existence. 

The guards looked back at Cedric who sighed before flicking his head. They nodded instantaneously, charging towards Luke. The magic artefacts that adorned each and every one of his body part, activated as he rushed in with an explosive speed. 

His sword came down in a seamless arc, however, every warrior in the royal guard was advanced rank in Water God Style. A swing that comprises of such high hostility and no technique was merely child play. The guard spun on his heel and blocked his attack, throwing him off his initial course. 

With a spinning motion, he struck his neck. However, since Luke repositioned himself, the sword failed to decapitate him completely. 

He rolled on the ground, crashing against the stairs that led to the throne. Panicking, he placed his hands over the deep gash on his throat. Blood spilled out like water from a broken dam as his body convulsed. 

Ariel, who had grasped at her composure until now finally broke the mask as she ran down, picking her dress up before sitting down, grabbing Luke's head. The corner of her eyes lined with tears as she held his head up. 

"My q-que---" 

"Don't talk. Don't move. It would be fine. Just don't talk..." 

She had lied. Lied to Luke. Lied to herself. There was no saving him. There was no one to save them. Their only hope was Julian who had already left because he felt something off with himself. Doga and Alek were probably drugged. 

They could recover from it any time soon, but it would take time. They could be killed in their sleep. 

"Don't worry about me... just run..." Luke spoke as blood bubbled out of his mouth. 

As she felt Luke's body grow cold, he held on to her sleeve one last time. "I loved you, my queen. I a-always did... s-so-sorry..." His head leaned to the side as he closed his eyes. 

"How repulsive. Seducing your personal guard as well. It seems like I would sleep peacefully." Cedric spoke before ordering the men to move forward. 

"My son... what will you do to him?" Ariel asked, dejected as she looked at Luke's cold body. 

Cedric sneered. "Groom him into the king this grand kingdom deserves." He replied. 

Ariel suddenly scoffed. "It is rather ironic, is it not, that one plucked from the hinterlands---boonies by my father, a pariah within his own noble bloodline, sired by a woman who had birthed countless bastards just like you, and who has licked boots of every passing aristocrat, would dare to address me in such a manner? Your audacity, I must admit, is a quality that requires acknowledgment." 

Her condescending scoff was met with Cedric's wild jeer. "Cheap words is all you are capable of, woman. We will find your lover. I am sure you'd love to see him scream right in front of your eyes." 

Suddenly Ariel busted into a fit of laughter. Her melodic laughter, despite being their enemy felt good to them. 

"What's so funny?" 

"Funny you think you can lay a hand on that man. He might not be here, but in a few hours, when he knows about that, you better pray for a god or anything you worship to appear himself. Because you laid a hand on Julian Greyrat's son. You better hope the kingdom you so adore does not disappear from the face of this world." 

"What?" 

"The one who defeated Fighting God?" 

"No way..." 

"We are doomed." 

"Silence, men. There is nothing but empty words of this characterless wench to survive. Do not be swayed." 

At Cedric's words, the head guard came forward and gripped Ariel by her arm. She tried to fight back but the man just ripped her sleeve off, throwing it back on her face and then clutching her bare arm once again. The cold metal of the armour grazed against her porcelain skin as she winced, closing one eye. 

Cheers erupted from the soldiers behind as they saw her bare arm. Cedric once again put on an ugly smirk as he stooped down to his level. "Just do what you are good at. At least one good thing came out of it. You left us with an heir to make a puppet of. Be it a bastard." He stood up and extended his hands on either side, "Feast yourself heartily, men." 

Ariel could only look at them with sheer hate in her eyes. The defense minister came up and looked back. The other young Greyrat representatives were petrified, unable to move. 

The defense minister was a fat man with a bald head as he lowered down to cup both of Ariel's cheeks. "I've always liked you, Ariel-sama." He spoke as he got closer and closer. Placing his tongue on her cheek, he licked her right half, drenching it. "Why? Why did you have to sleep with a commoner?!" 

He slapped her once as the audience erupted into a cheer. 

"You stink." 

He raised his hand again. 

*SHING* 

The sound of sword leaving the scabbard was muffled by the cheering as a black wisp, followed by a teal coloured streak crossed the minister's skull, cleaving his head into half as his lips and tongue still remained dangling while the upper half of his face went flying into the nearby wall. 

The guard that was holding Ariel's arm looked down, only to find a petite hand crushing his armour and then piercing through his skin, breaking his ribcage and gripping his heart. With a quick motion, the slim figure withdrew his hand, throwing away the heart that slipped across the room. 

"Adam..." Ariel spoke as she looked at the young boy, wearing a long black cape, his silver hair reaching down and stopping just before his enraged crimson eyes. The sequence of events was so fast that no one could react until Adam sat down and took out a piece of cloth from his pocket, wiping the saliva from Ariel's face. 

"They? Touch you?" Adam asked, his manner of speech still awkward around everyone except Nanahoshi and Julian. 

Ariel lowered her head, nodding slightly. Looking down, he saw Luke's body growing colder and colder by the moment. He placed his fingers on his neck. 

"Sorry. Dead." He spoke without an iota of expression as Ariel bit her lip. 

"Who are yo---" Cedric was about to speak but stopped as he saw something. 

An insignia. An insignia of a [World Power]. 

Every World Power had an insignia. 

Rudeus' insignia was a staff with three women like figures around it. However, what scared Cedric was the insignia etched on Adam's back. A dragon coiling around a huge, slightly red sword. This meant that what Ariel claimed a few seconds ago was true. 

Either Void God himself had arrived, or rather someone who trusted enough was sent here. 

"I-Identify your---" 

A tsunami of killing intent washed out from Adam as his vision doubled. His silver hair rose up from his nape as mana cracked and popped all around him. A network of red capillaries almost seemed to burst inside the white of his eyes, blurring the boundaries between his iris and sclera. 

He turned back to Ariel. "Please, hide. Behind the Throne. Cover. Ears and Eyes." 

She stood up, a defiant look in her eyes that never left her gaze for even one second. "I am fine." 

He bowed his head. "Leader?" He asked. 

"The man who just talked." Ariel replied. 

"Hm." He replied as he got into a lower, laido stance. 

"Adam...my son...we have to save him as well." 

Adam's eyes widened and the grip over the hilt of his sword tighetened to an extend that it started creaking. 

"Is Julian here?" She asked, catching up to the terrified look on Adam's face. 

"No..." 

Cedric was quick on the uptake. "Hold them here until we secure the prince. Eliminate the traitor. Glory to Asura." 

At his command, all magicians and warriors charged at Adam. 

[Mind's Blade - Nightless Sky]

(A/n Sorry, this would be the last shameless plugin. I used this move just to remind you that I have another fic. Read it. Or I will kill your parents : ) 

A technique that had cleaved the huge landmass of Ogre Island along with the Fighting God Armour was once again unleashed. Needless to say, since it was Adam, it was significantly weaker than Julian's. 

Julian's aura was crimson in colour, whereas Adam's was pitch black in colour as it swelled from his sword and outward. Adam specialised in assassinations from Julian. Not a full-blown fight like this with people who were all advanced rank or higher in the most defensive sword style. 

Regardless, as the aura expanded an invisible sword swung in every direction, washing the throne room in an instant paint of red, fountains of blood sprouting from where the soldiers' heads were. Some deflected a few strikes, however, the speed got to them. 

They couldn't keep up with it. 

In the matter of a few second, Ariel looked back, not being able to handle the brutality being inflicted, distributed equally on everyone. Everyone except Cedric who was excluded from this onslaught. He watched with wide eyes, trembling. 

Exactly two minutes later, Adam fell to one knee, gasping heavily as he killed everyone except Cedric and Greyrat representatives. 

Seeing how Adam was tired and, on his knees, bleeding from his ears, Cedric took out a dagger from inside his coat and charged towards Adam. 

But he was suddenly stopped as Adam's sword pierced his crotch with a sickening squelch. Twisting his sword, he broke the pelvis bones before kicking Cedric down. 

"You. Master will deal." With a quick motion, he cut down Cedric's feet from his knees down, immediately cautersing his wounds so he won't die. Turning towards Ariel, he walked to her. "Young Master?" 

"I don't know. I don't know... there was no room designated for him..." 

She was panicking. 

"Hm." 

Without saying another word, he sheathed his sword and wiped the blood dripping from his ears with his sleeve. Just how suddenly he had appeared, Adam disappeared. Looking back at it, he remembered Julian's words. 

----There might be some form of coup inside the castle. Go just in case. 

----Yes, master.

'He was right. I have to save young master.' 

He blitzed through the hallways. 

"Uuuuu...." 

Slight sounds of whimpering, muffled crying as if someone had covered their mouth came from a room. Rage overtook him once more as he bolted towards it. However, just as he arrived inside, his eyes widened. 

The maids and butlers were all already slaughtered. One of the maids that had taken Xavier from Ariel was pinned to the wall with a crimson sword, impaling her gut while her hands were covering her mouth as a tall figure stood in front of her. He was cradling something...someone in his arms. 

"Master?" 

"Oh? Adam." 

Julian was pressing his feet against the maid's leg, crushing her bone slowly as he told her to not make a sound. Xavier was sleeping in his arms, his head over his shoulder as he supported the little baby by keeping his hand on his back and the other on the backside of his knees. Xavier's arms were wrapped like a rope around his neck, sleeping soundly. 

"Did you deal with the rebels?" 

"High ranking ones, yes. Leader is alive." Adam gave a quick summary. 

"Very well, let's go then." Julian spoke as he handed Xavier to Adam. "Go ahead. I'll join you." 

Adam took Xavier from his arms like a sacred object and walked outside. 

Julian turned his head back to the maid. She tried to talk, but all that came out of her mouth was a slight blabber. Pained groans but no words. Every time she tried to talk or scream, crimson fluid spilled out of her mouth. 

Her tongue was ripped out. 

Julian got to her eye level. Holding her by her bun, he held her head up. Giving one last violent tug on her hair. Her neck dislocated with a crack as her body went limp. 

(***)

The enormous doors of the throne room groaned and shuddered as they swung open, their ominous creak echoing through the dimly lit chamber. 

Ariel, who had been sitting by Luke's lifeless body, immediately looked up at the sound. 

Her tear-streaked face, still wet with grief, revealed the anguish that had overtaken her. She couldn't help but hope that the arrival was Xavier, the only precious soul she had left in this wretched place.

Her heart pounded as she saw Julian's figure framed in the doorway. 

She blinked through her tears, her eyes focusing on the healthy boy he held in his arms. There he was, her little Xavier, bundled tightly against the world's cruelty, hugging Julian like his life depended on it. 

For a moment, the weight of the world seemed to lift, and she felt a surge of hope. But she had learned not to give in to emotions so easily.

Ariel stood up, tears still glistening in her eyes, and as she wiped them away, she refrained from running towards Xavier. She had become all too familiar with pain, and even the promise of happiness was a treacherous thing. 

Instead, she walked toward Julian with a measured pace, each step filled with cautious anticipation. Seeing Julian's expressionless face only fanned her paranoia about Xavier's wellbeing. 

Julian met her halfway, his stoic expression unchanged. She couldn't help but search his eyes for a glimpse of reassurance, a sign that Xavier was safe and sound. Her voice trembled as she looked at the child cradled in his arms. "Is he safe?" she whispered, her voice barely more than a breath of wind.

Julian's lips curved almost indicpherably, a rare display of emotion. "He's only getting his beauty sleep," he replied, his voice as composed as ever. The absurdity of the comment in such a dire moment took Ariel by surprise. A soft, teary laugh escaped her lips, mingling with her tears. 

It was as if Julian's words had pierced through the heavy cloud of despair, if only for a brief moment.

Julian showed no outburst of emotions. Instead, he placed a hand on the back of Ariel's head, gently drawing her in until her head rested against his chest. 

The comforting scent of leather and musk enveloped her, and for the first time since Luke's death, she felt a glimmer of solace. 

She softly hugged him back, her grip steady, despite the storm of emotions raging inside her. He whispered gently in her ear, his voice like a calming breeze, "Take Xavier to your room. I have a few things to attend to here."

As he released her, Ariel nodded, her eyes still brimming with tears. She kissed Xavier's forehead, and then she turned and walked towards her room, cradling her son in her arms. Adam walked close by. 

With each step, the memory of Luke, her childhood friend's sacrifice weighed heavily on her heart, but the presence of Xavier offered a glimmer of hope in the midst of this nightmare.

She wished for all of this to be a nightmare. 

As the doors closed, Julian walked over to Cedric. 

"Who was it?" Julian asked. 

He scoffed. "Man God." He had the look of someone who had already resigned his fate. 

Julian's jaw tightened.

'Did Orsted fail? Hmmm. No.' 

"When?" 

Cedric looked up; his eyes lifeless. "Just kill me." 

Julian's fist pummeled into his face as the wall behind it cracked and formed a round crater. His teeth dug into Julian's skin as he yanked them out. "I asked, when?" 

"Heh. Make me talk." 

Picking him by his scruff, Julian threw him across the room as another wall crumpled, forming a meteor sized crater behind him. As Julian walked over to him, four stone canons the size of his fist formed around him. They had spirals all around it, spinning at a velocity that caused a buzzing in the air. 

With a flick of his finger the stone canons dug one centimeter into Cedric's skin, crucifying him. 

The stone canons continued rotating, slowly digging through his skin and bone alike. Like drilling their way. 

"Speak." 

"Fi-fifteen months ago. Please...make it stop. Agh..." 

'Fifteen months...huh? Orsted didn't fail. Hm. Did he make a new apostle in the few seconds he had when he could see what was happening on Ogre Island? No, that doesn't make sense. He can't make an apostle that quickly... maybe he gave an apostle his final orders before starting to deal with Orsted. Hm. That makes sense.' 

"I see. Thanks for telling." 

"Put me down now..." 

"Why?" 

"I told you all you wanted to know." 

"So?" 

"Put me down, you bastard."

"Well, the thing is..." Julian paused as the canons piercing speed slowed and rotational motion increased, rising in temperature. "...that was my son. And my woman. I don't really like people putting hands on my possessions." The closer he got, the hotter the drills got. "Do you know how many bones are there inside a human body?" 

"Fuck off. Rot in hell." 

"Hell? I don't believe in that. Too bad. Anyways. There are 206 bones in a human body. Let's count them all." 

The next few minutes, Julian dismantled him like a chicken, taking out and explaining every bone inside his body. He died after 7 bones, however, Julian did it for his own satisfaction. 

Once he was done, he stood up and walked up to the throne, plopping on it. As the mountain of bodies sprawled all around him, he placed his hand covered in blood on his eyes, pressing them. "I actually felt irritated...but hmm. Still one more apostle, huh?" 

(*****)

AUTHOR'S NOTE

Well, my lazy ass finally decided to write. 

Sorry for the wait. 

Yes, this is slice of life. Fight me. 

SAYONARA