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TO Rewrite: B3 — 5. A Divine And Devilish Surprise
🕑 Added 2024-08-13 22:24:26 +0000 UTCPoV:
1. Rachel (Our Lunar Hare Is On The Move!)
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Rachel stepped through Scarlet’s portal, the sensation like a thousand hands brushing against her skin. She shivered, suppressing a grimace as the chill faded, replaced by the humid warmth of the helicopter cabin. The steady thrum of the helicopter blades filled the air, a rhythmic hum that matched the pulse in her hyper-sensitive ears, immediately adjusting to the volume.
The interior was bathed in soft LED lights, casting a warm glow that seemed almost cozy compared to the blinding sun outside. The cabin smelled of leather and sweat, which Rachel identified with. She adjusted the headset handed to her by a soldier around her neck with the mic directed near her mouth before falling into a seat. Another soldier informed the pilot to take off.
Conversations buzzed around her. Wolfgang’s voice, clear and authoritative, cut through the air in the back portion of the air vehicle, Sera adding her own occasional comments.
He was in a somewhat heated discussion about the political landscape of the EU with Barbara and Jeanne. Rachel caught snippets of strained discussions within the EU, a facade of unity threatening to crack. Elizabeth’s name was even brought up as a probing talking point by Barbara, but Wolfgang brushed it off, saying he’d heard positive things about the Hungarian billionaire and philanthropist, but not much else.
Barbara’s responses were clipped, her words measured, while Jeanne’s questions probed with quiet intensity. Wolfgang’s jovial tone seemed at odds with the underlying tension, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to the nervous energy of the others. His bodyguards were far less invested in the topics.
On the other hand, Sera was a smiling thorn that took every opportunity to take an undertone jab at the two saints’ ‘purity’ and ‘righteous’ causes. Again, Rachel was frustrated at the cadence; there was something so familiar about it, and her thoughts immediately went to Aurora, yet that wasn’t quite right. Still, it was in the same ballpark.
Nearby, Maria, Nam, Alexa, and Scarlet were engaged in a more lighthearted exchange, despite the context. Maria shuddered as she recounted her experience of passing through Scarlet’s portal, drawing knowing shivers and sympathetic groans from the others.
Scarlet defended herself with a laugh, saying it wasn’t her fault but the Red Sea’s doing. Her abilities are strange even to her.
Big Nia’s soothing voice floated over the din, detached from the surrounding clamor while being a calming balm to the still-agitated wolf pups. Their whines softened into contented sighs under her far more practiced and gentle adult ministrations.
Lastly, perched on her head was Coral, the spooky bun drained from the sun’s energy, nestled atop Rachel’s head. It was good treatment for the ghost bun when she got too out of hand, which could happen often. The experience with the Event Moon bun soldiers made her think about how she should proceed with her following buns.
Rachel cleared her throat, drawing the group’s attention once settling in. The rhythmic thrum of the helicopter blades underscored her words as it took off, heading for the airport.
“I’m going into my Soul Sanctum for a bit,” she announced, holding the headset’s microphone close to her lips. “And yes, Maria, Scarlet’s portal is a bit chilling to pass through but that’s how it is when you enter the Red Sea, even for a split second.”
Maria grunted, her Spanish accent thickening, “Well shit. Finally the liebre lunar admits some things freak her out! Yo, Fangs, your portal is freaky. Full stop. I know it’s not you, but damn is it—eesh.”
Rachel chuckled, brushing off the comment as Scarlet pushed her mouth to the side with a light pout that said she didn’t mean for it to feel that way.
Having to come to the vampiric girl’s defense, she added, “The benefits are worth it, and it doesn’t reflect on Scarlet. Why talk about it?”
Scarlet shot her a grateful smile, her eyes bright with relief. “Thank you! Yeah, I’m not trying to have creepy abilities, I swear. Just give me a bit to figure them out. Geez. I’ve only had a little bit to explore my Soul Expanse, so give me a break.”
Alexa raised her hand, drawing eyes and trying not to freak out since she’d be turning back into a 13-year-old in the next minute or two. “I don’t think it’s that bad, to be honest. It’s pretty OP.”
“Seriously!” Scarlet laughed. “I can transport large groups of people huge distances. It’s totally busted!”
Buckling up, Rachel leaned back against the cool metal of the helicopter seat and let them continue the discussion about their individual abilities, comparing them. She glanced to her left at her adult bun. “Nia, wake me when we arrive?”
Nia showed her a reassuring smile. “Of course, I wouldn’t leave you napping while we reach the destination, Major, because I’m certainly not carrying you. That’s your job for me.”
Rachel suppressed a snort while playfully plucking at her top while feeling her outfit tighten around her waist to pinch her. “Now that you mention it, you do kind of use me like the horse here.”
“Armor of the horse,” Nia snickered, stroking Aleka’s green fur as the pups cuddled her. “And who is the pack animal again? Last I checked I had over two dozen outfits packed away for a certain hare with a fat butt.”
“Touché, Captain Bun.”
Rachel closed her eyes with a short shake of her head, but Scarlet distracted her, causing her to crack open an eye as the vespertine reaper gave her a light pout and glare.
“That is so adorable! Why don’t I have a cute Living Denier outfit sister to banter with?”
“Right?” Alexa huffed, making Nia’s smile become forced with all eyes going to her. “Plus, the child duality is so fun. She can be your cool best friend one moment and an adorable little sister the next to brighten your day. We need to protest!”
“Really?” Rachel mumbled, catching a few of the soldiers chuckling over the headset. “I had to go through literal hell to get Nia. Speaking of which, didn’t you get the magical outfit from our last adventure, Scarlet?”
“Plus,” Nia tried adding, “China seems to have made some Soul Items, so it might be possible for you to get some in the future.”
Scarlet’s left fang poked out as she crossed her arms and Rachel was suspecting the vamp girl really was getting a little jealous. “I want an OP Soul Item like you, Nia. Not just any Soul Item.”
“Wait, what?” Alexa balked, glancing between them as Nia’s smile softened, clearly touched by her complement.
“I’m sure there are other amazing Soul Items out there waiting to find a wonderful owner like you, Scarlet. Your time will come. Hmm?”
A shimmering light surrounded Alexa, making her cry out.
“Oh-no… Not now! Nam…”
Nam reached for her hand to comfort his wife, only to be repealed by a blast of light, making him wince. “Ack… We’re learning. Just relax, sweetheart, and let it happen…”
Her seatbelt evaporated in the surge of Divine Energy, Scarlet’s blood exiting her body to shield her from the minor irritation. Rachel took the opportunity to enter her internal world while the girl’s body swirled with the holy power, stealing everyone’s attention during her transformation back into an Angel Magical Girl.
Drawing in a slow breath, she used the techniques her grandfather taught her; it came easily, allowing her to enter her Soul Sanctum far easier than anyone else she’d seen trying to enter it thus far. Once again, her brain poked at her to question certain elements about her family, but she dismissed it like an annoying fly.
Her mind shifted inward, her consciousness slipping away from the helicopter’s confines. The familiar warmth enveloped her as she entered her Soul Sanctum, specifically, the shared Soul Expanse between Nia and her. The air here was different, charged with the energy of her outfit’s stored moons, shining overhead on all sides in the grove Nia had favored, though there were some changes now that it was Big Nia.
Rachel’s mind settled, the chaos of the outside world falling away with all the paranoia that came with it. She looked up, the landscape was ever-changing due to the bunny’s ever-shifting tastes, a reflection of her childish internal state. Today, however, it was a serene forest glade, the canopy above clipped back to display the five Lunar Pools currently filled to the brim. She focused on each one, recalling all the memories she had while using them:
Nia’s Pools:
Pool 1: [Blood Moon (Unique; Selene) - 109%]
Pool 2: [Black Moon (Unique; Cerridwen) - 109%]
Pool 3: [Hell Moon: Yomi (Unique; Izanami) - 109%]
Pool 4: [Greater Moon of Abundance (Event) - 109%]
Pool 5: [Crimson Moon (Event) - 109%]
Rachel’s Pools:
Pool 1: [White Moon (Normal) - 57%]
Pool 2: [Greater Harvest Moon (Event) - 53%]
Three Unique Moons and three Event Moons. The Greater Abundance Positive Energy should be helping me to counter the Negative Moons, and the shielding helps to block the energy from interacting with Nike, but there are still concerns…
I still need to purge my current Normal White Moon Energy due to the tiny amount of Crimson and Greater Abundance that Nia can’t extract. It sucks that I need to purge my full energy, but it’s better to do it now and soak up the rays once we get to Montana than have it come back and bite me in the tail. It’s only due to their Positive and Negative effects that counter each other that I’m able to not be affected by their energy.
Her gaze lingered on the Blood Moon, its surface rippling like liquid fire. It was a reminder of the first time she'd witnessed the raw power of Selene, the Greek Personification of the Moon. By far, it was the most potent lunar energy she'd encountered, second only to the Black Moon. Yet, it came with some annoying side effects that made it difficult to enjoy using.
Unique Moons have a heavy toll on me. The Greater Moon of Abundance helped to mitigate a lot of that in Elizabeth’s Legend Quest. I didn’t use any of them besides the Black Moon, yet I had a lot of support from Cerridwen and ten thousand moons… It filled up all the Pools I already have, which is huge…
She brushed a hand through her hair while glaring at the three potent spheres above.
I’ve relied way too much on the Unique Moons to get me this far. Even the Event Moons have their issues. With the Unique Moons, I basically become a demi-god to any other Myth or Legend because I’m literally channeling divine beings’ energy. Event Moons give me a massive boost from my base-state as well.
Her thoughts turned to Coral as the sleeping bun materialized in her outstretched hands at a thought and she started absently stroking the ghostly bun’s head, pondering her next choices of bun soldiers now that they had two open slots.
Big Nia can make Coral do what she wants, but she still causes trouble and can do her own thing… She’s an absolute terror for Kid Nia. In the end, we’re not fully capable yet of dealing with Event Moons, which means a Unique Moon Bun is out of the question… In fact, if I made a Yomi Bun, they’d probably try to corrupt and eat Nia or me.
Rachel slowly sat on a chair that materialized beside Nike’s medical bed, setting Coral down in her lap. She leaned to the side and watched a small stream, the water dancing over smooth stones. The tranquility of this version of Nia’s room eased the tension in her muscles, the worries that clung to her like shadows.
I want to try a Black Moon Bun… That could go horribly wrong, though, and my gut tells me to stay as far away from that as possible…
Her gaze shifted to the bed of the resting Personification to distract herself from the annoying thoughts, distracting her from opening her status window to further examine what she’d poured over for the past week. There had been changes and additions that came from her Level 15 to Level 16 advancement, showing new things could come from holding onto your levels and her soul grew stronger.
Rachel's consciousness drifted within her Soul Sanctum, the tranquil forest glade providing a soothing backdrop to her musings. The gentle rustle of leaves and the soft glow of moonlight filtering through the canopy above brought a sense of peace. Yet, beneath the calm surface, Rachel's mind was a whirlpool of thoughts.
Her thoughts were swept along with the stream as Nike stirred, a gentle rustling that turned into her arms stretching out, a heavenly groan rumbled in her throat. The Personification of Victory's eyes fluttered open, a soft glow emanating from her serene gaze.
“Good morning,” Nike greeted with a simple smile, her voice a soothing melody that resonated through the Soul Sanctum, no doubt reaching Nia and the pups. “It seems I’ve caught you deep in thought again.”
Rachel’s head cock to the side and a chuckle shaking her chest as a smirk lifted her lips. “Good morning? Is that really the first thing you wanted to say to me after being out for this long? How’s the recovery coming along?”
Nike settled into her bed to look up at the overhead celestial globes filling the sky, much larger than your typical moon. Her laughter was a soft breeze in the stillness of the grove.
“It’s coming along nicely. However, I doubt that is what you wish to talk about… I’m sure you’re quite anxious about a certain special visitor that invaded your soul and aided in my recovery”
Her cryptic sigh and twinkling eyes, mixed with warmth and mystery itched at Rachel’s mind. Crossing her legs and resettling Coral on her head again, Rachel folded her fingers in her lap while kicking her brain into overdrive as she studied the woman she’d saved from Dionysus and harbored.
“I would enjoy an explanation as to this mysterious figure. I get the feeling I won’t get it, though,” she admitted with a tad bit of annoyance. “At least it’s good to know my soul was invaded, which means I need to talk to my grandfather to learn how to better defend myself from that sort of thing since it is more in-line with his religious practices. And does that mean you were awake during it?”
Nike’s lips curved into a sad smile, a hint of mystery dancing in her eyes. “I’ve promised not to reveal their identity. Let’s just say we have a complicated history, and leave it at that. They induced a sort of shielded recovery state to further support my restoration while applying a divine balm that was… They did not need to go so far. I was pleasantly surprised, considering our past,” she admitted, showing genuine appreciation.
Rachel sighed, a playful pout forming on her lips that Scarlet would appreciate. “Figures you’d say that. But as long as you can vouch that they didn’t mess with my or Nia’s soul, I’ll be satisfied.”
Nike nodded, a reassuring warmth in her gaze while shifting to the side to gingerly touch her still-growing wings. “Normally, I’d never agree to something like this. But after our chat…and what we discussed, I can vouch for them and think you would agree with me, had you sat with me. Your soul remains untouched.”
Silence settled between them, a comfortable pause that allowed Rachel to soak in the serenity of her Sanctum while thinking about those tiny hints. It had to be another personification, she was sure, but nothing came to mind since she didn’t know much about Greek mythology. There was so much more to understand about this woman, so many layers to unravel, but that would have to come later.
Yet, a familiar presence tugged at her consciousness, and Rachel turned to see the triplets bound into the room, their energy a burst of lively chaos and totally lacking their previous skittish behavior. Aleka, Irida, and Thalia, in their wolf pup forms, tumbled over each other, showering Nike with affection and breaking into the conversation.
“You’re awake!” Irida cried. “Lady Persephone and Lord Hades were so worried when they noticed you inside her!”
“Girls?” Nike giggled as they licked her face. “It stings—you’re still entities of Hades…”
“Shoot. Sorry,” Thalia mumbled, nudging her sisters away. “We should report this to them…”
Adult Nia popped up on the opposite side of the bed, leveling a small frown her way. “Major, you could have mentioned Lady Nike awakened. And don’t worry, I can remind you when we arrive since I can multitask on both sides, unlike my childish version, who gets easily distracted.”
Rachel shrugged, a sheepish grin tugging at her lips. “Fair, but it slipped my mind. Things have been…busy inside my head,” Rachel mumbled, puffing out a long breath at all the interruptions.
Nike chuckled, accepting the hellhound’s love with a warm embrace, despite her earlier protests. “And if it isn’t the misfit triplets of Cerberus? I’m looking forward to getting to know this version of you.”
As they spoke, Aleka, Irida, and Thalia bounced up and down, still in their wolf pup forms on the sides of the woman’s pillow. They were a whirlwind of energy and excitement, showering the personification with affectionate nuzzles and wagging tails.
“Wait, really?” Aleka mumbled, her ears falling back a little. “Most personifications don’t really like us…except for Thanatos, maybe…”
“Of course,” Nike chimed, pulling them closer with a wince to look closer at each of them. “I can sense a lot of victories behind those fangs… I’d expect nothing less due to the competence of your lord and lady.”
The triplets exchanged glances, their tails wagging harder in unison at her praise. “The triplet pups in my universe…didn’t last long after their birth, so I didn’t get much of a chance to know them, and your Hades brought his Hell with him when he won against his other counterparts… You seem lovely.”
“You’re so much nicer than our personifications,” Thalia mumbled, now looking a little suspicious. “I…like you even more now. You were only cool in our version, but now you’re nice. It’s an improvement,” the cobalt-flamed wolf offhandedly admitted, trying to play off her earlier excitement; her animated tail gave away. “You don’t seem bad. Maybe…you can meet our mom and dad in Hades. He could use a win against her.”
Nia’s eyebrow lifted. “Isn’t your mother the mortal in that relationship?”
“Exactly,” Aleka whimpered, her jade fire ears falling back. “Mom’s terrifying for a mortal, and she lives in Hades, so Dad kind of doesn’t get many breaks from their card games. She’s so smart that she knows exactly what he has. It’s crazy, like she’s a seer.”
Rachel suppressed a snort, internally whispering to Nia. Basically, the mortal woman is better at math than the hellhounds and destroys them in poker. I bet she has a ton of death tokens or whatever they use there.
“Really?” Nia internally snickered, keeping her face thoughtful. “That’s hilarious. Maybe we should meet her if she has pull with the hellhounds. Getting their mom on our side could be good for the future.”
There’s that strategic mind, Big Bun, Rachel chimed as Nike clapped her hands together, her eyes bright with curiosity.
“Girls, I’d love to see your human forms. I heard a rumor from someone close to me that you are quite the cuties and dress to impress. Would you show me?”
Nia’s tail went stiff, a smile brightening her face at the mention of clothes. “A wonderful idea! How about a fashion show? I can conjure up anything we can imagine in this space, and I’ve wanted to see some styles for triplets.”
Aleka, Irida, and Thalia’s tails froze, and Thalia backed away, looking somewhat reluctant and shy for the ‘leader’ of the hellhounds. Yet, her energetic, redheaded middle sister grabbed her by the scruff of the neck and dragged her off the bed with renewed vigor.
“Fashion show!” Aleka cried, her green flames igniting brighter while hopping off the bed.
The triplets transformed, their forms shifting into young teens in their sealed state, each dressed in identical suits with different colored ties and ribbons in their hair. Aleka had blue for Thalia’s hair color, Thalia had red for Irida’s, and Irida had green for Aleka’s.
Nike and Nia’s eyes sparkled with delight as they took in their appearance, and the Personification of Victory clapped her hands.
“You’re much better behaved than my version, and still hold that guardian vibe of Hades. I’m quite impressed by your performance. You three are adorable, and I’m sure when unsealed, you’re quite the sight to behold—as beautiful as your mother.”
“Aww.” Irida sniffed, holding back tears as Thalia looked away to hide her flushed cheeks and Aleka huffed as if it were obvious they were cute. “I want to protect you!”
Rachel watched the scene unfold, a soft smile playing on her lips. “As much as I want to soak in all the positive vibes and catch up with you, Nike, I need to do some planning. I’ll step into the other room so as not to intrude and let you five have your fun—Nia? Oh.”
Her captain promptly moved to take Coral off of her head, phasing through her ears with a wide, jagged-toothed yawn at all the commotion. “Let me handle the pumpkin. We can do some dress-up with the girls. I have a lot of outfits I want to try out on Nike, as well, and I have a feeling our Lady of Victory will give me a win over our little Halloween terror.”
“Fair enough.”
Nike showed a serene smile. “I’ll do my best. Also, I look forward to our one-on-one, Rachel. Until then, take care.”
With one last glance, Rachel stepped out of the grove, leaving behind the comforting presence of her Shared Sanctum. She entered the white expanse of her personal Soul Expanse, a space separated from Nia’s, and her private place. Here, she could focus on her plans, free from the distractions of the outside world.
As she settled into the familiar rhythm of her thoughts, Rachel reflected on the events that had brought her to this point. The journey had been long and fraught with challenges, but she had grown stronger with each trial.
Yet, beneath the surface, questions lingered. The visitor’s identity remained a mystery, a puzzle she was determined to solve at some point, just like her family’s mysteries. There were so many things to pluck at, but she had to focus on what was most important.
Rachel’s thoughts flitted to Mei and Moongmor, busy moving the Graceful Moon into the proper place, presumably for the Montana Crystal. She pulled up her status window, staring at her Unique Moons that Nia held.
Using Yomi, the Blood, and the Black Moons nearly destroyed my soul… I’m sure Izanami and Eostre were also supporting me somehow during that competition. They’re dangerous, and channeling the Hell Moon without their support against Relica for merely seconds nearly ripped my soul to shreds.
I need to master the Normal Moons since even Event Moons are punching above my weight class at this point. Then again, a Greater Abundance Bun might compensate for Coral’s potent Negative Energy. She listens when she wants to listen, but if I can get a duality between the two forces, it might push her to act more in a sort of rivalry… I need a Lieutenant Bun that Kid Nia can count on to back her up, though… White, the Normal Moon seems appropriate.
Rachel’s thoughts drifted back to Nike, her presence a beacon of hope in the swirling chaos of her mind. The Personification of Victory had survived against all odds, a testament to the resilience and strength she embodied. Once more, she was on her side, which also pointed many other deities in that direction—she could feel misfortune shifting in her favor.
With a determined sigh, Rachel pushed herself forward, her mind sharp and focused while swiping to her potential new Feats, noticing what free points she had to use but scrolling past them to Nia’s information table.
Rachel’s Current Upgrades:
Level 16
[5 Stat Point Available]
[1 Equipable Feat Choice Available]
[1 Stat Modifier 1 Available]
[1 Branch Feat 1 Available]
[1 Feat Extension Available]
Nia’s Current Upgrades:
Base Grade VIII
[1 Synchro Points Available]
[4 Style Points Available]
[2 Feat Points Available]
[75 New Inventory Slots Available]
Rachel fixated on Nia’s current Grade, considering everything her Living Denier and her had discussed regarding her upgrade paths.
Nia’s [Base Grade] indicates her foundational level and overall strength, similar to how my other Feats work with Grades. [Primal Force X] is at the max Grade Level, so does that mean Nia can only get that high before her progression stops?
No, I have a hard time believing that she's been woven by a literal goddess…another version of Chang’e that our current Chang’e killed. It’s probably a breaking point, as Scarlet would call it, if she can surpass the tenth Grade.
Overall, the Grade influences the effectiveness of her abilities and stats. As her Base Grade increases, so do her capabilities and potential for further growth. Nia’s advancements from Grade II to Grade V demonstrated significant progress for us during Conner’s Legend Quest, improving her base attributes and unlocking her [Styles] and [Feats] that we currently use. If she breaks into her next tier after ten, maybe it will boost everything we already have.
Hmm. [Synchro Points] are used to bind Nia’s spirit closer to me, increasing our synergy and shared abilities… It’s nuanced, though. The link is more like attaching herself to my and her specific Feats, which is how I got access to [Solar Defense III] after sinking one of her points into it.
She received two points from Grade V to Grade VIII, and just using one deepened our connection to the point where I’m not that scared of the sun anymore. I can go a lot of ways with it, though. The synchronization allows us to utilize each other’s powers, which significantly boosts our combat effectiveness and versatility.
Right now, there are only two Synchronization Paths we’ve gone: [Bun Soldiers I] and [Soul Binding II]. I’m not sure if it’s worth using at this point until we really come up against something we struggle with…but I might put our current one into our buns to see how many more we can get. Having Coral constantly feeding me energy from the Greater Harvest Moon certainly is powerful, and I need to increase it to likely reach the ability to create Unique Buns.
That being said, I don’t know where we’re lacking, though, and that’s partially my fault for relying so much on Event and Unique Moons up to this point. I need to grow on my own, without their support.
Rachel breathed out a long puff of air while shifting her gaze to [Style Points], which allowed Nia to customize her own abilities and enhance specific aspects of herself to her own vibe. It was primarily used for how she’d support her wearer, enhancing her owner’s Attack, Defense, or Utility. Essentially, it was like her Branch Feats.
Currently, Nia has the most ability to expand here, and we’ve got [Solar Defense] and [Lunar Pool Limit V]. It would take two points now to reach a sixth reserve pool, but I doubt that is the way to go. I’m going to need to sacrifice one of my current Pools for the Graceful Moon when I get it, though, which means I need a Bun Soldier… Greater Abundance seems to be the way to go.
Deciding on it, she made the decision to direct Nia on their future path, sure that her captain would agree to getting more soldiers.
I’ll need to see what Nia thinks about her other potential Styles when we get a chance to sit down on the flight to Montana. Nia’s [Feat Points]... she internally hummed, fixating on the number.
Nia’s Feats are used to unlock special abilities that provide significant advantages rather than the more tame Styles that have upgradeability… Feats are set in stone and powerful from the start. [Less is More] is our only one so far, and it is massive, basically providing me and her with a full-time force field that can stop bullets when combined with our [Soul Binding].
It even gives her a connection to my [Lunar Coat II] defensive Feat, which is currently S-tier thanks to that bond always making it active.
A small smirk lifted her lips as she recalled her fight in Elizabeth’s Legend Quest against all the vampire families with all of her Crimson Moon clones.
Thanks, everyone, for helping to increase my [Defense]. The moment I’m able to jump to Grade III with my growing soul, it will happen. I’m really starting to better understand how these Seeds work, and Nia functions in a similar way.
Nia’s Feats primarily rely on the combination of where her current Style is focused and how close our Synchro Path is to support me. This one is huge and can change dramatically based on where we go…definitely not worth investing in until everything else is set.
A smile finally brightened her lips as she got to the [Inventory Slots], they hadn’t been active yet, and Nia had been bugging her about it and their limits—they’d been using a duffle bag to cheat the system. Rachel didn’t know if there could be more options regarding them, though, if they went through all the Style options.
I don’t think I can hold her off for much longer… There are so many outfits Mom and her bought that she’d like to swap between on the spot. We had to leave them with her to return to the house, too. A Living Denier without her wardrobe is an ornery outfit.
Scrolling back to the top, she growled upon seeing her own possible Feats. There were quite a few she needed to discuss with Nia, but one or two seemed beneficial to get. She just didn’t want to spend them and then kick herself for not saving when something big came up later she couldn’t get.
Twenty-five is a huge one, unlocking our Soul Expansion, but twenty also feels like it would be a big one. Should I be patient? If I can handle the threats against me right now without them, then I should. Then again…I’ve mainly survived thus far due to the Unique and Event Moons… No, Nia herself and my hammer can help me bridge the gap with my competition.
Plus… A snicker shook her chest as she swiped away the display and summoned her wicked-looking, spiked maul to twist around her fingers. Nia knocked on the door to let her know that they’d arrived at the airport to board their jet. I like challenges.
“Coming,” she called out, dismissing it and closing her eyes. Her thoughts instantly went to the blonde assistant of the World Health Organization Director-General upon hearing her voice; [Beastial Instincts III] was never wrong, and at the B-tier—the woman gave her tail a shiver like few things had, which was saying something. “Let’s see what Wolfgang’s crew will do when splitting ways… Something about Sera bugs me.”
Rachel exited her Soul Sanctum, the familiar weight of the real world settling back on her shoulders. The steady thrum of the helicopter blades returned, a comforting white noise that masked the rapid beating of her heart. She let out a slow breath, steadying herself before opening her eyes.
The cabin was alive with conversations, laughter, and the occasional jibe. Wolfgang’s voice, distinct and calm, floated over the rest, contrasting sharply with the boisterous laughter from Maria and Nam; somehow, the unicorn’s shockingly silly humor really got to her brother.
Rachel glanced around, taking in the sight of her companions—her team, her friends—gathered around in their scattered clusters. The Triplets, Nia, and Coral were inside her Soul Expanse, enjoying their time with Nike.
Abruptly, she stood upon hearing the conversation between the pilot and soldiers; they were about to descend. She stretched her arms above her head with a yawn.
“I’m going to see Wolfgang off and see what they’re up to,” she said on their private channel. “The sunlight will be good to drain my White Lunar Pool and purge any residual Negative energy. I’ll meet you on the plane before we leave for Montana with Barb.”
Scarlet perked up from her conversation with Alexa, her expression a mix of curiosity and concern. “You sure? I can keep the portal open if you want a quick way back.”
Rachel shook her head with a grateful smile. “Thanks, but I’d rather not. The sunlight will help me and Barb will probably want to complain with the vibes I’m getting from her tense muscles.”
Alexa’s teen-like appearance made Rachel restrain a smile, her radiant glow, halo, and wings constantly drawing the soldiers’ eyes. She nodded, understanding flashing in her star-like eyes while trying to put herself out there, no doubt, and fit in.
“Yeah, I don’t know about those Germans either. Umm, good luck out there. We’ll hold down the fort I guess until you’re back—am I allowed to say that now? Is that a stupid comment? Yeah, it’s a stupid comment,” she sighed, shoulders slumping and glow dimming a bit.
“No, you’re fine, babe,” Nam reassured. “Just act like yourself.”
Feeling her heart soften at the adorable pair and seeing a new side of her brother now that she wasn’t poisoned against her sister-in-law, Rachel headed towards the back. She waited for Scarlet to offer everyone a ride—no one but a determined Alexa accepted. Rachel could see the thankful look in her blue eyes when the teenage angel woman tensed and hopped through, Scarlet joining her.
“Well, we’ll be watching the latest anime episodes together then—bonding time!” Scarlet huffed, sticking out her tongue at the others before joining her. “Wimps.”
Rachel giggled as Maria balked, but Nam just lifted his hands in acceptance. Unzipping the back, the wind on the other side whipped her hair around her face, one of the side doors opened to allow Wolfgang’s black-haired ‘secretary’ to study the scenery.
She stepped into the blinding sunlight, wincing as her eyes adjusted. Closing the zipper, she caught Jeanne and Barbara’s thankful smiles at having a new ally in the fight, or she expected that’s how they saw it. From what little she’d heard, the four were quite ‘anti-religious.’
Her gaze drifted to Wolfgang and his entourage. Jeanne d’Arc stood close by the black-haired secretary, her expression unreadable but her presence undeniably commanding. Barbara, in contrast, had a relaxed stance, but her military eyes were sharp, clearly on-edge from their conversation and slightly annoyed. Jeanne also seemed slightly upset with her flushed cheeks for some reason, yet her glare was aimed at the blonde sitting next to Wolfgang.
Sera, with her deceptively innocent demeanor, appeared totally oblivious to the two saints across from her. She caught Rachel’s eye as she entered their part of the helicopter, and offered a charming smile that Rachel didn’t buy.
Flipping to their channel, Rachel tried to sound cheery. “Are you all set?”
Wolfgang nodded, a thoughtful grin playing at the corners of his lips while scrutinizing her in a somewhat uncomfortable way. “As ready as we’ll ever be. I must say, you look…different since I last examined your soul, as guarded and isolated as it may be—a Soul Item shielding it? Interesting. Something has changed, hasn’t it? Exciting!”
A short pause passed between all of them as Rachel maintained a passive smile, and not long after, the WHO Director-General chortled and waved his hand while rising.
“Life is an adventure of discoveries and unwanted divine interventions, isn’t it? You seem like the type that gets a lot of higher support…like the saints here!”
Rachel chuckled, feeling the tension spike her blood and stiffen her tail; his statement wasn’t meant as a compliment. “Adventure and higher support… Yeah, that’s one way to put it. I wouldn’t say my experience has been wholly…positive on that front, but that’s between me and myself. I’m sure you worked hard for everything you’ve gotten and weren’t a spoon-fed brat…a real man of hard work.”
“Of science!” he stated with a laugh, but she heard the twitch in his muscles that said she’d struck a nerve. “Have a wonderful rest of your day, Ms. Divine Hare.”
The helicopter shuddered slightly as it began its descent, the shift in altitude causing Rachel’s ears to twitch. She focused on the rhythmic beat of the blades, a steady pulse that matched her own heartbeat. The anticipation for all of them to be rid of the German group was almost tangible, a hum of energy that ran through the cabin—well, everyone but Sera seemed in a false happy mood.
As they landed and the back ramp lowered, Wolfgang’s group mostly exited with them. However, Sera lingered behind, causing the others to pause as Barbara and Jeanne waited a short distance away, ready for action.
She gave Rachel a parting look that unnerved her. [Beastial Instincts] were giving off-the-charts danger levels now that were subtly hidden before. A feeling the two saints undoubtedly felt. The blonde’s succulent lips curving into a sly smirk that spoke of ill intent.
“Be careful out there, Rachel…very careful, from what I’ve heard down the grapevine. Haven’t you heard? Playing with fire can get you burned. And your little feline friend has…quite the fire. A friendly warning.”
Rachel’s eyes narrowed slightly, meeting Sera’s bright blue irises with an unflinching stare. If she pushed a little harder, maybe she could get some insight into who this woman was or how she gave her such familiar vibes.
“Oh, I don’t really mind fire. I’m not that concerned about Zoe personally… Now you? Don’t think I don’t know you’re hiding something sinister beneath all that charm. And believe me, I’m hiding something just as dangerous.”
Sera’s eyes sparkled with amusement and perhaps a hint of challenge. “You’ve got sharper instincts than I gave you credit for,” she mused, putting a finger to her lips. “I wonder if I could convince you to swap sides instead of the other way around? Food for thought because…you have your work cut out for you, sweetie.”
The words hung in the air, a moment of revelation clicking into place as the woman winked, turned, and walked away with a sway to her hips that struck her brain like a match, cutting past the darkness.
Rachel’s mind whirred, the pieces falling together in a startling realization. Her ears stiff as she caught the flicker of something deeper, something darker—a horned woman with gnarled, branch-like wings. A glimpse of Yseress, Izanami’s Nephilim Princess of Yomi.
A grin spread across Rachel’s face, a fierce fire lighting up her eyes. “I don’t mind playing with fire, Sera. It’s part of my job description.”
Sera paused, her curved, inviting eyes shining with the same intensity as her mistress before she turned to join Wolfgang and his guards, her steps more purposeful and graceful now. “Until next time, Rachel,” she called over her shoulder, her voice carrying a promise of future encounters. “Try not to get yourself killed dealing with whatever Personification of Conquest that lies within that crystal…for all of our sakes.”
Barbara and Jeanne exchanged curious glances, their interest piqued by the exchange. Jeanne’s voice was gentle yet probing. “What was that about?”
Rachel’s heart thudded in her chest, the implications of the encounter still settling in. Yet, she didn’t offer them an immediate response, instead speaking to the guests in her soul.
Yseress has implanted herself in the UN… I guess we know what poison they’re drinking. Hell has made their move. The UN is a lot more interesting than I thought.
Jeanne’s brow arched, a hint of concern in her eyes. “Are you sure you’re okay? Something certainly passed between you… Where do you know each other?”
Rachel sighed, brushing back her hair and feeling light as a feather, despite the sun’s oppressive shackles around her soul. “Just another piece of the puzzle on the world stage. Sorry, but I can’t talk about it so freely. Now, we’re off to Montana and you’re off to France… I will say, be very careful of the UN. Well, girls, we’ve got work to do.”
Fending off their parting grumbles about her hiding things, Rachel boarded the jet and settled into her seat. Scarlet and Alexa were in the back, leaving her to discuss Omen business with her brother and Maria for a bit.
After a twenty minute discussion, she leaned back and entered her Soul Expanse to finish what she started. There was something she wanted, and now she’d given Nia enough time to get to know Nike. It was time to add at least some stat points. Whatever lay ahead in Montana, she would be ready to face it head-on, and they had some recruiting to do; it was the perfect scene for it.
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Comments
SME
Bunny! Wait >.> I mean hare! I meant hare, Rachel!
Opala
🐰
