The Order and Faction Knights

Cruz Cardinal's sudden appearance and introduction catch Nova and Tim by surprise. His youthful face and Nutcracker-like appearance make him a distinct figure, and his demeanor is calm and polite, despite the circumstances. When he brandishes his polearm, the boys become wary, sensing that they might be in for a fight.

As Cruz makes a move, Nova instinctively uses the chains wrapped around his wrist to block the spearhead. However, to their astonishment, the main stick of the polearm suddenly extends in length, catching them off guard. It becomes clear that this Faction Knight possesses a unique and powerful weapon, one that seems to have taken them by surprise.

Nova and Tim exchange glances, realizing that they might be facing a formidable opponent. They need to come up with a plan quickly if they hope to escape or defend themselves against this unexpected threat.

As Nova manage to block the weapon , it reverts to its normal length as Cruz prepares another stance as he spoke "Oh apologies , I was told by my senior Knight Dorothy-Senpai that you both came from the Academy of the capital correct? Nice reflexes yet let me explain….what you witness is a unique physical magic manipulation that can only be casted and mastered by faction knights like me.." Nova spoke "figures , since I kind of watch a lot of anime about this kind of scenario before" Tim and Cruz blinks awkwardly before Nova whispered never mind that , flusters of almost slipping up his modern world memories or references as he explained that when he winks somewhere he can do a backstab maneuver before they both defeat him just to take away his weapon , Tim nodded while Cruz felt impatient and prepare another spear attack while Nova distracts him by dodging thanks to his reaction time and reflexes of parrying only using his prison chains with magical durability.

Nova's quick thinking and reflexes allow him to dodge Cruz's attacks, using his prison chains with magical durability to parry and block the incoming strikes. This creates an opportunity for Tim and Nova to counter Cruz and try to disarm him.

Tim moves in to flank Cruz while Nova continues to engage him, making sure to keep Cruz's attention on him. Tim then lunges forward, attempting to grab Cruz's polearm and disarm him. Cruz, however, is no pushover, and the fight between the three of them becomes intense as they clash in the whimsical garden maze.

Then Nova gave the signal of wink at Tim to try to hit him from behind as he manage with raw strength and use his prison worst chain on his right hand like protective grapplers to hold the spear head steadily until when Tim is planning to strike behind with his own chain on his left wrist (Nova told watch out since he notice no enchantment was done but the pole-arm he is holding suddenly chain shape as he bounce back as Tim was parried back for the weapon turned into a centipede that has the same sizes as the large and long spearhead with stick and snap to scare or atleast intimidate them as it wiggle about as it's base was still held by Sir Cruz with a chuckle for Tim to splash on the fountain until the Knight deactivated the form and the weapon is a normal spear again as he corner both of them on standby until Tim coughs as he left the fountain and Join Nova to kneel down (before Tim suddenly recalled this knight he used to be a wonderful combatant during the academy's joint tournament and during the Unity Arena where it's a special free 1v1 combat duels for adults and non-academy combatants to witness) as Cruz froze , letting go of his spear shuddering its lies all lies , until Nova realize something and read somehow with his mana sight that this knight's soul or aura has a streaky flow and a black like color from the nape before back to normal eyesight for him as he ask Tim to tell him more about his life and his friend uttered a stammer his father is a adventurer that has the same nickname the nutcracker and OHH his mom's name was Corazon?) while he yammer on the knight shivers and screech before blank out , face empty of emotion as he cried subconciously "mother…father.." says weakly as he looks down and knelt , a WEIRD cylinder that feels like a different kind of mana crystal as it felt it disrupts both boys sense if it's a magic or a cursed relic.

As Tim continues to recount details about Cruz's life, including his father's nickname and his mother's name, Cruz's demeanor changes drastically. He shivers, then suddenly cries out for his parents. His face goes blank, and he kneels down with an empty expression. It's clear that some sort of memory or emotion has overwhelmed him.

Nova and Tim are left puzzled by this strange turn of events. Nova, using his mana sight, senses that there's a peculiar cylinder-like object emitting a different kind of mana energy that seems to disrupt their senses. They carefully approach Cruz, keeping an eye on the mysterious object and wondering what could have triggered such a strong reaction in him.

Nova told Tim as a whisper this must be a brainwashed he wanna try to reach out if he can dispel it like with Lirael's cursed crest before he swiftly shielded his friend Tim and was bombarded with a lot of arrows (Nova got injury from back should he shielded Tim for and the second he parry with his strong kick that bounce back to the enemy) until Tim is shivering and point out another faction knight with a more forest green color and armor my with a special bow design of his own and he shouts how dare they try to manipulate his comrade as he prepare another set slowly of arrows attack as he warned them not to stay close to his knight as Nova quince as Tim remove the arrow on his friend's shoulder as he support him as he does a non-verbal magic motion of a temporary FOG glyph that lets them escape like a smoke bomb as they rush to run together close. (until Nova thanks Tim before hearing a weird voice again the same one from the time in the cavern of Amerite, the Academy sacred small garden and now this so he trust his intuition as it ask Tim to move at the right when they spot many pathways to escape)

As Nova and Tim make their escape, they are suddenly ambushed by another Faction Knight, this one in forest green armor with a unique bow. Arrows rain down on them, and Nova takes an injury while trying to shield Tim. In the midst of this chaos, the mysterious voice that Nova has encountered before speaks to them, guiding them to move in a specific direction.

Trusting his intuition and the guidance of the voice, Tim leads Nova to the right as they spot multiple pathways. They follow this direction, hoping it will lead them to safety and away from the pursuing Faction Knights. The voice continues to be a strange but somewhat helpful presence in their ordeal.

Then afterwards they finally saw a warpdoor open that looks like an ancient looking door as they entered as it shuts behind them they finally knelt down breathing from all that movement and running as they heard a more softer different gentler female voice and it was a Mageress with glasses , a hat and a very celestial aura that Nova can tell just that. Her demeanor made Tim just innocently with naivety of her presence thanking her for saving their lives from such trouble and introduce themselves as Tim does so--

The Mageress with the celestial aura looks at Nova and Tim with a warm smile. She nods in acknowledgment of their gratitude and listens as Tim introduces them.

"It's a pleasure to meet you both," she says kindly. "I sensed that you were in a difficult situation, and I couldn't stand by and let you come to harm. My name is Chocola, and I'm a Mageress. You're safe here for now. Please, make yourselves comfortable."

Nova and Tim exchange relieved glances, grateful for their unexpected rescue by this mysterious but benevolent Mageress named Chocola.

She continued , smiles warmly and introduces herself as a guardian of the mythical GREAT library. She mentions that she couldn't stand by and watch as they were in trouble, and she appreciates their presence in the library. She then offers to show them around this incredible place of knowledge and magic.

And then she says as she casually use floating magic unto herself with her mystical staff and helps the boys by using a golden glow of her staff's core and magically all their injuries and fatigued were vanished yet they still has the chained wrist so she ask them to raise their hands so she can remove and easily break it into ashes as they felt free (yet she ask Tim to take time to bath somewhere in the doors of this Great Library , which made the boy agree with hypothermia and the splash he took earlier against Cruz) meanwhile as he left Nova with Chocola , the mageress spoke as she fix her hat and glasses "You can speak your mind Nova-No Norman Comet De Valor right? Your an outlander Tao Yusha talks about" as it broke the memory seal of Nova's interaction with that one god in his dreams and groans "so your the other surprise he was talking about , a Goddess in secret? Since for some weird reason you had all 3 mana types , Light (Luminous) , Dark (Umbral) , Soul (Ecto)-" gasp "are you one of the color goddess that I learned in my time of this world?" Chocola smiles and nods with a smile of her baby face and loli height/stature "I guess you learn enough , I shall formally introduce myself..I am Chocola here , that's the identity of this MORTAL vessel I possess..we can get to that later..For now you shall Know I me as the Indigo Goddess called Spinel , yet my title is Peace and Unity despite that-I am the weakest goddess compare to my siblings back in the divine realm…" she uttered sadly before Nova tap her shoulder "it's okay yet whose voice was calling to me?" She giggles and Nova's bang got swayed and POOF you see a small white Gerbil crawls back to the hat of Chocola and she spoke "this creature's name is Blindus….one of my thousand summoned familiars to venture outside this abode to find Allies or people that can take risk against the Equinox.."

Chocola, or rather Spinel, the Indigo Goddess of Peace and Unity, explains to Nova that she is inhabiting a mortal vessel named Chocola. She acknowledges that she's the weakest of her divine siblings in the divine realm.

When Nova inquires about the voice that called out to him, she reveals that it was her familiar, a small white Gerbil named Blindus. Blindus is one of her many summoned familiars tasked with seeking out potential allies or individuals willing to take risks against the Equinox.

Nova then chuckles (feels like a familiar novel I read somewhere) "You don't mind me asking to clarify why are you possessing a mortal vessel? Was there a requirement for the gods of this world to interact in the mortal realm?" Chocola chuckles as she magically lend them tea and replied for they take a seat somewhere at a good table "here drink to properly purify any magical curse or poison just incase and enjoy a beverage…Ahem it's actually tied why I wanted the Equinox dethroned" Nova nodded as Chocola ask if back in the modern world he knew of polytheism gods and some methods of ascension to godhood , reincarnation or omnipresence that they used avatars in those stories to interact with the mortal realm right? Nova gulps as he drink his tea and realize she is just testing his knowledge as an outlander (term for her eyes of someone not from this world) as she spoke more "it is almost the same mechanisms here as in the modern world's multiple gods however…it's vastly different to reach the goal of ascending a mortal to godhood, then reincarnation is out of a question if a deity leaves their title to some other future god to carry it and reborn as a human with all its abilities intact and can never regain them through normal means…as for omnipresence..I am one of those kinds , this MORTAL vessel is the avatar I posses I am sure your GAMER side knowledge of the modern world Tao Yusha told me was there?" Nova laughs a bit beefier finished his tea saying "I see so you are in close contact with Tao Yusha , before I give answers could you tell me what's the difference between you and him?" Chocola mentions the obvious , she has a mortal body to control while Tao Yusha can just manifest an image through dreams unto chosen people and interact in the dreamworld , a different domain he manage to conjure up from time to time. A very powerful genderless deity that is some kind of messenger for all other gods like her as he has no intention to be directly involved unless the threat affects the HIGHER tier gods and realms of divine pantheon. She finished her tea as well and just ask him to think that it's like a human class system but this time the level of deity , their domain tied to their title , power and tierlist of authority.

Nova listened attentively as Chocola explained the concept of gods in their world. He learned that gods in this world could possess mortal vessels, unlike the avatars used in the polytheistic stories he was familiar with from his modern world. Chocola also mentioned that while she was an Indigo Goddess, she possessed a mortal vessel, unlike Tao Yusha, who could interact with people through dreams.

Nova found this information fascinating and inquired about the difference between Chocola and Tao Yusha. Chocola clarified that Tao Yusha could manifest an image in people's dreams and serve as a messenger for other gods but didn't directly interfere unless the threat affected higher-tier gods and realms.

Nova absorbed this information and compared it to a class system, where the level of deity, their domain, power, and authority determined their position in the divine hierarchy. He thanked Chocola for her explanation and asked if there was more he should know about their world's deities and their roles.

Then Nova spoke "so basically you didn't create that body?" Chocola nodded as she remove her hat and added "in addition , May I allow a bit of a backstory no..a Very long story about two opposing forces of this current Kingdom..Before I explain why that is in my case..I shall tell the story of Equinox m-Correction , to me and the Divine realm we see her as an Anti-Goddess that is her former real name she must've kept was Estella…Yet her former much older name before the change is simply Estelle..it was during the time of when Coloria and Gradience , yes Gradience is the true name of the so called fabled Forbidden Valley by Colorians (citizens of coloria). Moving on they used to be an interconnected trade off nation and the continent's name Aurora Borealis..I am sure your modern realm knew of that name right?"

Nova was intrigued by the revelation that Chocola hadn't created her current mortal vessel. He leaned in, eager to hear more about the world's deities and their roles.

Chocola nodded and began to share a significant piece of history. She mentioned that the Equinox, or Anti-Goddess as she referred to her, once had the name Estelle before her transformation. Chocola then delved into the history of the two opposing forces in the current Kingdom and how they were once interconnected in a nation called Aurora Borealis, which Nova recognized as a name from his modern world.

Nova listened attentively, absorbing the historical details and connections between these deities and the world they inhabited. He encouraged Chocola to continue, eager to learn more about the intricate web of their world's past and present.

Nova clear his mind NOT TO GO CHUNNIBYOU YET (as this remind him of SAO yet it's different cuz one this isn't a virtual world nor the way faction knights brainwashed and this world has its unique flavor) before Chocola snap her fingers "want to know Equinox' origins or not?"

Nova nodded eagerly, his curiosity piqued. "Yes, please tell me about the Equinox's origins. I'm keen to learn more about the history and background of this world's deities." He was ready to absorb the information and gain a deeper understanding of the world he now found himself in.

Chocola chuckles "well you are a big fan of the unknown I give you that much when , it started nearly 600 years ago….it is year 800 right now" she added and Nova nodded to understand the different timeline of this compare to his modern world as she kept going "there was a time this emerald-based nation used to base small and a simplistic settlement of wonders yet colorful , Coloria hence their neighboring nation by south was Gradience , the true name what current Colorian's called Forbidden valley-it used to be no END borders that the Hierarchy order or rather Estella herself orchestrated" Nova listens as this feels refreshing "Moving on , during that time there are no law or recon period of SEPARATION. Yet there were no Demonspawns that emerge yet at the time , Just usual Goblins and other monstrous beings that aren't ethereal….One of it a Grand Sage's Daughter Estelle , nicknamed Esté…she was a gifted child during that time already given a vow/calling to increase her magical prowess and master any sort of magic as she too used to be blessed with the mana type of the soul-yet at that time , we gods cannot reach out to them directly as we could now due to the civilization's differences in developing communication for their deity , more so Gradience has lesser deities yet just as powerful to Coloria Detiies like me" Nova felt awkward "But you said you're the weakest of the 7 so….your saying this as others are more powerful Than you as of now?"

Chocola nodded. "Yes, you understand correctly. While I am one of the deities, I hold a lower position among the seven. Each deity has their unique strengths and domains of influence. In terms of power and influence, some of the other deities may surpass me. But let's continue with the story." She resumed her tale:

"Estelle was a remarkable individual. She was known for her kindness and desire to bring unity to the people of Coloria and Gradience. As time went on, she began to gain followers who believed in her vision of a united and harmonious society. She was, in essence, the embodiment of peace and unity."

Nova was captivated by the story. "So, she was a deity herself, or did she become one later?"

Chocola smiled and explained, "Estelle was a mortal, but she possessed an extraordinary connection to the divine. Her actions and the power of her beliefs eventually elevated her to godhood, and she became known as the Equinox, symbolizing the balance between Coloria and Gradience."

Nova was impressed by this tale of a mortal ascending to godhood through her actions and beliefs. He couldn't help but ask, "What happened next? How did she change, and why is she now seen as an 'Anti-Goddess'?"

Chocola sighed, her expression growing somber. "That's where the story takes a darker turn. As Estelle's influence and power grew, so did her desire for control. She began to impose strict laws and restrictions on the people, stifling their freedoms. Gradually, she transformed from a symbol of unity to a figure of authoritarian rule. She claimed to be doing it for the greater good, to maintain peace and order, but her methods became increasingly oppressive."

Nova listened intently, absorbing the complexities of Estelle's transformation. "So, she became a ruler rather than a symbol of unity."

Chocola nodded. "Yes, she essentially became the Empress, ruling with an iron fist. The very ideals she once championed were twisted into a system that oppressed the very people she had once sought to unite."

Nova was struck by the tragic irony of the situation. "And this transformation led to the emergence of Demonspawns?"

Chocola confirmed, "Yes, precisely. The people's dissatisfaction with Estelle's rule gave rise to resentment and anger, which eventually birthed the Demonspawns, malevolent creatures that embody chaos and rebellion. They posed a threat to both Coloria and Gradience."

Nova was beginning to piece together the puzzle. "So, the Equinox we know today is a result of this transformation and the emergence of Demonspawns?"

Chocola sighed. "Yes, but it's even more complicated than that. The Equinox, once Estelle, became determined to eradicate the Demonspawns. She forged the Hierarchy Order and enacted strict laws, including the prohibition of murder under any circumstances, to combat the threat. But in doing so, she became ruthless and authoritarian."

Nova contemplated this intricate tale. "So, the Equinox's actions, while driven by a desire to protect her people, have led to further conflict and oppression?"

Chocola nodded sadly. "Exactly. She believes that her actions are necessary to maintain order and security, but her methods have caused suffering and strife. It's a complex situation, and the Equinox's actions are a matter of debate among the deities."

Nova felt a deep sense of empathy for the people caught in the middle of this conflict. "Thank you for sharing this history with me, Chocola. It helps me understand the current state of affairs in this world better."

Chocola smiled gently. "You're welcome, Nova. Understanding the past is key to navigating the present. If you have any more questions or wish to learn about other aspects of this world, feel free to ask."

Nova nodded, feeling more enlightened about the world he found himself in. "I will, Chocola. Thank you for your guidance."

Then Nova ask the method for ascension to Godhood , Chocola says " it varies from nation to nation yet for Estella (new name she goes by) , as the ANTI-GODDESS….She secretly drank an ancient relics of us the deities when we want to bless children with more soul-based mana types…So she became desperate as a very powerful magician , in her 60s when the first SACRED context was written and spread all over , she realize she can't maintain power as she age nor can the people discover how mana works that there are 3 types…" Nova nodded "go on-" then Chocola spoke more "during that time when I thought and was a naive youngest goddess of my 7 and appreciate her hardwork in uniting Coloria and Gradience…I thought that atleast I can let her ascend yet..It was a mistake…As she drank the blood form essence of my godhood , she failed the test as my blood or PART of my soul connected to her and witnessed…how in reality she has an ego and was deviously scheming to use us for religious support of her rule…However due to her CORRUPTED soul and twisted soul I was only able to retrieve parts of myself yet some of my traits mix in with hers along with immortality…thus she stop aging yet she used a secret magical spell to shift her appearance of an early 20s girl to satisfy that sense of godhood despite it incomplete…she etch a fine line between mortal and divine as that's the time the Empress sees herself as the Equinox that just wants to preserve the current state of Coloria , However since she only manage to quench half my power and influence or traits/ideals…She carried my title of Unity while I am the other half who carried my Peace title…" Nova had a realization "then basically thanks to that you've been indirectly link to the mortal realm?" Chocola said Precisely why her goal was to regain her other half and remove Equinox….Plus she started her first Propaganda by dividing her empire Coloria from Gradience and create a mythos that dubbed it as Forbidden Valley as we know today , it seems her UNSTABLE or Enjgmatic state of being causes temporary disruptions not just above yet also the world beneath us or rather the NETHERZONE….only few demons turned into physical species either as Demonspawns or Demonbeast slowly becoming extra netizens of Gradience that the 3 gods watch over there welcomes , they had different titles compare to me and my siblings yet they have much enough authority to handle Gradience as their territory.:.Thus she created base on Scholars under the indirect guidance of my Sister , Ray : Goddess of Wisdom…:as they created it under Equinox' orders excusing it as protection yet deep down it's to protect herself and the empire against the members of Gradience as she knew their 3 deities which were my cousins in the divine realm can detect my disrupted ascension ceremony…In the end during that , she maintained such for the next 20 years…and During that time May I tell the story of a little girl Chocola before I proceed at the tasks at hand?"

Nova nodded in agreement, curious to hear more about Chocola's own past. "Please, go ahead and share your story."

Chocola began her tale with a nostalgic smile. "Before I was known as Chocola, I was a deity in the divine realm, bearing the title of Peace and Unity. My existence was characterized by harmony and balance. I was content, overseeing my domain and interacting with my siblings, the other deities."

She continued, "But as time passed, I grew curious about the mortal realm, about the lives and experiences of those who inhabited it. I yearned to understand their perspectives and share in their joys and sorrows. So, I decided to manifest myself in the mortal realm."

Nova listened attentively as Chocola's story unfolded. "What was that experience like, transitioning from the divine realm to the mortal realm?"

Chocola's expression turned wistful. "It was a profound and humbling experience. As I entered the mortal realm, I took on a mortal form, just like I did now with this vessel. I became a young girl, not too different from the children of that time."

She continued, "I wandered through villages and towns, seeking to learn about the lives of mortals. I made friends, laughed, cried, and faced the challenges that mortals face. I experienced the beauty of their world firsthand."

Nova was fascinated by Chocola's story. "It must have been a unique perspective, bridging the gap between the divine and mortal realms."

Chocola nodded. "Indeed, it was. I grew to love the mortal realm and its people, and I wished to bring them peace and unity in their lives. I shared my wisdom and guidance with those who sought it, helping them find harmony amidst the chaos of their world."

She paused for a moment, lost in memories. "But as I lived among mortals, I began to sense the growing turmoil caused by the actions of the Empress, who had once been Estelle. It pained me to see the suffering of the people I had come to care for."

Nova understood the weight of Chocola's experience. "So, that's when you decided to intervene and try to guide the Equinox towards a better path?"

Chocola nodded. "Yes, I believed that I could help her rediscover the ideals of peace and unity that had initially motivated her. I tried to reach out to her, but her heart had become clouded with ambition and fear. She had become the Equinox, a ruler determined to maintain control at any cost."

Nova couldn't help but empathize with Chocola's mission. "It must have been difficult to witness the transformation of someone you once cared for."

Chocola's eyes held a mixture of sadness and determination. "It was indeed painful, but I could not abandon the people of this realm or the ideals I held dear. My goal has always been to restore balance and harmony to this world, and I will continue to work toward that end."

Nova nodded in understanding. "Thank you for sharing your story, Chocola. It helps me grasp the complexities of this world and its history better."

Chocola smiled warmly. "You're welcome, Nova. Understanding the past is a key step toward shaping the future. Now, let's focus on the tasks at hand."

Nova agreed, ready to learn more about the challenges they faced and how they could work together to bring about change in this world.

Chocola added "however like I said I didn't create this avatar myself , there was a cost…can you guess why?" Nova gulps "a mortal body shall offer themselves to you?" Nodded with melancholy "it's a dark reality here , fortunately the vessel CHOCOLA welcome me I the now weakened goddess during the child's time..she yearn to visit the divine realm or atleast witness it…she was an ill-child with no cure as the cause was her body was incompatible with her mana…It's a Spiritual/Ecto kind like yours yet compare to you thanks to your parents knowing how to treat it…during that time Ecto-mana born children are extremely rare due to the case if their body can take it and live long" Nova gasp as Chocola continued "this mortal Chocola is one of the unfortunate…so she heed prayers to the 7 deities and she was the only one out of the 6 other siblings via myself despite being the weakest during that time and. Volunteer to hear her prayers to spiritual telepathy" Nova then holds his tears of the story "This we CREATED a pact..it's not a ascension ritual as I don't intend to ascend her as she didn't gave a trial and group decision for the divine realm..it is my own and this way she has become my Mortal Vessel in exchange I can let her soul rest in peace to wander the place for the dead by Tao Yusha and an in between of the Divine realm and Mortal realm that only the powerful god messenger like Tao Yusha with such wide domain , even to the point of overseeing the dreamworld and Ki astral plane (name of the place for mortal souls , debating whether they get converted into angels to the Divine realm or Netherzone as demons. Lastly reincarnation only within this world to be reborn)" refills their tea to drink as Nova spoke "so basically a mutual trade between a mortal and god , is there an end to this pact?" Spinel spoke that she and and true owner of the vessel (original) Chocola agreed the pact is eternal as she wanted this goddess despite her mission or goal to be over and watch over Chocola's family that passed away was to enjoy staying in the mortal realm to oversee it with her own divine eyes.

Nova listened intently to Chocola's explanation of the pact, the sacrifice made by the mortal Chocola, and the eternal nature of their agreement. It was a profound and touching story, showcasing the depth of the bond between the goddess and her mortal vessel.

"It's a beautiful and selfless pact," Nova remarked, genuinely moved by the story. "To think that mortal Chocola willingly offered herself to become your vessel and find solace in watching over her family even after her own passing... It's a testament to the kind of person she was."

Chocola nodded in agreement. "Indeed, mortal Chocola possessed a kind and compassionate heart. She found purpose and fulfillment in our partnership, and I am grateful for her choice."

Nova couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for both Chocolas. "Your story reminds me that even in a world filled with complexities and challenges, there are moments of selflessness and beauty that shine through."

Chocola smiled warmly. "That's the essence of what I strive to protect and restore in this world—those moments of harmony and unity. Now, let's discuss how we can work together to confront the Equinox and bring about the changes needed for Coloria and Gradience."

Nova nodded, ready to delve into the plans and strategies that would help them achieve their goals. The knowledge of Chocola's backstory had given him a deeper understanding of their mission and the stakes involved. Together, they would face the challenges ahead with determination and purpose.

Nova then ask "are you sure your only Desire was your duty as a godddess in a mortal vessel's body?" Chocola huffs "Hush young one , my primary duty is to remove a stain on the natural order of this world….yet…if I had desired something may you stand up pls?" Nova casually stand up as she use her chair to help match her height to his before saying her magical staff vanish "so spread you arms- as he does as ordered as followed she hug him and uttered "so this is how mortal hugs feels like? My familiars are right to admit in my solitude to cherish such a rare experience after hiding for centuries"

Nova was a bit surprised by Chocola's sudden request, but he followed her instructions and spread his arms. As she hugged him, he could feel the warmth and presence of a divine being embracing him. It was an experience unlike any other he had felt before, and it filled him with a sense of comfort and reassurance.

"It's... a unique feeling," Nova admitted with a smile. "To think that I'm being hugged by a goddess, even if through a mortal vessel."

Chocola chuckled softly. "Indeed, mortal hugs have their own special charm. It's a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of mortal life."

As they shared this brief but meaningful moment, Nova couldn't help but feel a deeper connection to Chocola and a sense of purpose in their mission. He knew that their journey ahead would be challenging, but he also felt a newfound strength and determination to make a difference in this world.

"Thank you, Chocola," he said sincerely. "For sharing your story, for your guidance, and for this hug. It means a lot."

Chocola smiled warmly. "You're welcome, Nova. Let us now focus on our mission and work together to restore balance and harmony to this world."

Before they sway and let go as Chocola spoke "your recognize the Order's troops personally enacted by Estella right? The faction knights?" Nova spoke "yes me and my best friend encountered them before"

Chocola nodded, her expression growing more serious. "The Faction Knights, as you know, serve the Equinox and uphold her rule. They are a formidable force in Coloria, and their loyalty to her is unwavering. However, I believe that there are those among them who may not fully understand the truth of the situation. We must find a way to reach out to them and show them that there is another path, one that doesn't involve blindly following the Equinox's orders."

Nova agreed with her assessment. "Yes, I believe there are some within the Faction Knights who may have doubts or questions about their mission. We need to be cautious and strategic in our approach, though. The Equinox's influence runs deep, and we don't want to put anyone in danger."

Chocola nodded in agreement. "Agreed, Nova. We must gather allies and information, slowly building a network of those who are willing to challenge the Equinox's rule. It won't be easy, but together, we can make a difference."

With their mission clear and a newfound ally in Chocola, Nova and Tim were determined to face the challenges ahead and work towards restoring balance to this world.

She also uttered "have you manage to immobilize one of them to see a weird magical relic coming out the nape of their neck?" As Nova gasp and reference the time he and Tim encountered a month old knighted faction Knight calling himself Cruz Cardinal no.43 did had that once they manage to convince him he isn't summoned from Divine Realm as the Equinox says

Nova nodded in response to Chocola's question. "Yes, we encountered a Faction Knight named Cruz Cardinal No.43 who had a strange magical relic at the nape of his neck. He believed he was summoned from the Divine Realm, but we were able to convince him otherwise."

Chocola's expression became even more serious. "That magical relic you saw is likely what's influencing the Faction Knights' loyalty to the Equinox. It's crucial that we find out more about these relics and how they work. They might be the key to breaking the Equinox's hold over them."

Nova agreed. "Understanding those relics and finding a way to neutralize their influence will be a priority. We need to free as many Faction Knights as we can from the Equinox's control."

Chocola nodded. "I'll do my best to gather information from my end as well. Together, we can work towards a brighter future for Coloria and its people."

With their determination renewed, Nova and Chocola began to strategize on how to uncover the secrets of the magical relics and reach out to those Faction Knights who might be open to change.

Then she added "I shall explain why I said so myself about them…..those are Integral Modules….relics orchestrated by the Anti-Goddess herself to make sure their memories sealed away before they have been knighted and the magical effects to brainwash absolute loyalty and trust in her lies.." Nova murmured "maybe that's why it's not easy to convince them-" as Chocola spoke "can I tell another layer of my story on how I knew of her invention and why I consider her as my other half in terms of power?"

Nova nodded, eager to learn more about Chocola's connection to the Equinox and the Integral Modules. "Please, go ahead. I want to understand as much as possible."

Chocola began to recount her story, delving deeper into her history and her unique perspective on the Equinox. Nova listened intently, absorbing every detail and insight she shared.

Chocola spoke "it's began 450 years ago and this mortal vessel stop aging due to not possessing it so the Equinox at the time as Chocola's parents to give her up in return to examine this talented mage as of course the child's parents is unaware the soul has long since pass and it was I SPINEL…a Goddess soul possessing it"

Nova was deeply intrigued by Chocola's story, particularly the revelation that she had been inhabiting the mortal vessel for centuries. He listened carefully, absorbing the details of how Chocola had come to be in this unique situation.

As she continued her tale, Nova couldn't help but wonder about the implications of a goddess residing in a mortal body for such an extended period of time. It raised questions about the nature of gods and their interactions with the mortal world.

"Chocola," Nova began, "your story is truly fascinating. I'm curious, during your time in this mortal vessel, have you interacted with mortals in a more personal way, like you are with me now?"

Chocola chuckles "hold on young mortal , let me continue during that time due to the unwavering trust of the Equinox by the people the parents accept me I mean my identity of my vessel they assume is just an amazing mage taken in her eminence presence it took awhile yet she was attempting to do a prototype Piety Ritual as I suspect she isn't satisfied being an Anti-Goddess unwelcome by the divine realm and just considered a mortal with godlike powers and longevity beyond her natural limit…as I pretend to be an innocent child I took the opportunity as since it is a prototype she was unable to manipulate my memories nor my Soul….so in the end I retaliate and warned her I came to warn her to return the other half power of the goddess Spinel which is of course me as you are aware of. Alas , at her eyes she was disappointed as she just wanted to feel whole to maintain her authority yet failed yet since my power being cut in half and possessing a mortal soul I was unable to defeat her so…guess" as Nova spoke "you retreated somewhere she cannot access!!" She nods "only beings of the Divine Realm gain access of ancient dimensions like the Great Library of knowledge so to speak and I sealed the gateway to enter it..Hiding in peace and truth to figure out how to overthrow her without divine intervention so I spread out familiars to look for mortals that aren't blindly loyal to her and blend in for her defeat…I guess our incomplete battle 450 years ago bother her so much , she decided to prepare a new system a current version of the Piety Ritual to create these Faction Knights....o guard her authority against any rebels or people of truth…yet thanks to my encounter she feared people born with Ecto-based mana despite being rare so…basically it's fortunate Tao Yusha informed me in some way to this current time year 800 you and maybe your family members had this rare mana type."