Noah sat on the floor, his fists clenched, his gaze distant and hollow as he processed the trauma of the last few hours. Lux leaned casually against the wall, his elegant form a contrast to the surrounding destruction. His hair fell over his face, shadowing eyes that watched Noah with an expression both calculating and surprisingly gentle. From his pocket, he produced a silver watch and flicked it open, letting its ticking fill the heavy silence.
“We need to move. There are people to meet,” Lux said, his voice calm but resolute. “For now, at least, I’ll help you lay them to rest.”
“Thank you,” Noah whispered, his voice barely audible as he met Lux’s gaze, his eyes betraying the last remnants of exhaustion and grief.
In response, Lux snapped his fingers, and with a soft glow, a cascade of golden light enveloped each of the fallen. In an instant, the bodies vanished, reappearing outside in a line of freshly formed graves. A light breeze rustled the leaves as Lux stepped outside, bowed his head, and murmured, “May the Lord of the Spirit Realm welcome you into his embrace.”
“A god praying to another god…” Noah observed, his tone one of surprise. “How odd.”
Lux lifted his head, a small smile touching his lips. “It’s simply respect. He’s a close friend of mine” A rare solemnity shadowed Lux’s face, and for a moment, Noah glimpsed the complexity of his guide.
Noah’s gaze softened, and he took a deep breath, seemingly gaining strength from Lux’s steady presence. “Thank you… for all of this,” he said.
Lux waved a hand dismissively. “Come. We’ll have time to deal with what remains later. We have a journey ahead.”
As Noah rose to his feet, a new purpose seemed to light within him. “Where are we going?”
“The Starbell territory,” Lux replied. “We’ll meet an ally along the way. If all goes well, it should be an advantageous journey.”
Noah’s face brightened a little as he absorbed the news. “And Ava will be there? We finally have a reason to cross paths again, it’s been a while.”
Lux glanced at him, the hint of amusement in his eyes. “For an arranged marriage, you seem rather taken with her.”
A faint blush crossed Noah’s cheeks. “I am,” he admitted. “It’s one arrangement I never had to force myself to accept.”
“Then let’s not waste time,” Lux said, pushing off from the wall. “Your future awaits, and your path, twisted as it may be, is just beginning.”
The forest air was thick with tension as Noah and Lux moved through the shadows, Noah’s senses alert as he hunted. Every movement was precise, his sword flashing with dark energy as he cut down monster after monster. Slimes burst apart, dissolving into shadows, while insectoid creatures writhed as they fell, his blade cleaving effortlessly through them. With each swing, he could feel the dark energy coursing through him, fueling his strength and quickening his reflexes.
“The more I channel this energy, the lighter I feel,” Noah remarked, a thrill of excitement in his voice as he sliced through another foe with renewed vigor.
Lux watched with mild interest, leaning against a tree as he observed Noah’s technique. “Enjoy it while you can,” he advised. “Your dark energy supply isn’t endless. It will drain with each use,” he added, nodding toward the fading black spots on Noah’s arm.
Undeterred, Noah pressed on, his swordsmanship sharp and efficient, each swing displaying both skill and growing confidence. Just as he prepared to strike down another slime, it paused, as if reacting to his presence. The creature began to shift, its gelatinous form stretching and rippling until it took on the shape of a young man. His appearance was both striking and intimidating—eyes a fierce shade of crimson, their shape reminiscent of a lion’s glare, and silver hair cascading over his shoulders. Dark markings framed his face, three bold lines on each cheek, and he wore a regal red coat trimmed with fur, giving him an air of unmistakable authority.
With a graceful movement, the man raised his hand, halting Noah’s blade effortlessly. His expression was one of simmering anger, his gaze piercing.
“Such audacity,” the man sneered, his voice a low, menacing growl. “An insolent human, thoughtlessly cutting down my creatures as if they were nothing.”
Noah took a step back, startled by the man's sudden appearance and sheer presence. “Who… who are you?” he managed, his voice barely steady as he tightened his grip on his sword.
The silver-haired figure’s eyes narrowed. “I am Sicil, I am the God of Monsters, and master of the creatures you so casually slay,” he replied, his tone filled with contempt. He leaned closer, his fierce gaze locking with Noah’s. “You’ve invaded my realm and killed my subjects without a second thought.
Noah gritted his teeth, his body tensing. “They attacked first. I’m not here to cause trouble,” he said, though his tone betrayed a mixture of resolve and fear.
Sicil scoffed, his eyes blazing with fury. “In my forest, there’s no distinction. Every creature here is under my protection,” he growled. With a swift motion, he pushed Noah’s sword away, forcing Noah to stumble back.
Lux finally stepped forward, his calm and unruffled demeanor casting a stark contrast to the tension simmering between them. He met Sicil’s hostile gaze with a faint, knowing smile. “Sicil, it’s good to see you again. How long has it been since you… assisted me with killing your mother? Anyway, I’d like to cash in that little favor.”
Sicil’s crimson eyes narrowed, his voice barely concealing his venom. “You forced me to do that, Lux—so I wouldn’t die.”
Lux’s smile widened, unbothered by Sicil’s fury. “True, I did. But come on, Sicil, you could’ve resisted like your sibling Oz did—and look, Oz is still alive. What’s done is done, and now you’re stronger for it, aren’t you?”
Sicil’s voice dropped, a dangerous edge lining his words. “I despise you, you bastard. You forced me to kill my own mother, and now you act like you did me a favor?”
“She was an Apocalypse,” Lux replied, unblinking. “An entity designed to bring ruin. Her death was a necessity for this world’s survival. You should know the difference between us, Sicil. You’re a lesser god; I’m primordial. The power disparity is vast enough that it would be wise to choose your battles.”
Sicil clenched his jaw, but finally, after a tense silence, he asked, “What do you want?”
Lux glanced at Noah, ignoring Sicil’s bitter tone. “This kid needs a trainer. He holds promise but, to be honest, he’s the weakest hero I’ve taken on. So, as part of your debt, I want you to whip him into shape.”
Sicil let out a short, mirthless laugh. “Train him? Lux, I’m in the middle of keeping the Crows and the Black Witch’s machinations in check. She’s crowned herself queen of those wretched things, and she’s no easy opponent.” He looked over at Noah, assessing him with a raised brow. “Listen, kid, your first assignment is to go after the Black Witch. If you survive, you might just be worth my time.”
Noah blinked, stunned. “That’s my training?”
Lux chuckled, an amused glint in his eyes. “Good enough for me. She’ll make a formidable foe—if you don’t mind risking your life.”
“I’d… suggest finding allies first, though,” Sicil muttered, casting Noah a dubious glance.
“Oh, and do try to live, would you?” Lux added with a smirk, ignoring the trepidation flickering in Noah’s eyes.
“How am I supposed to fight an enemy even a god can’t defeat?” Noah asked, his voice tinged with frustration.
Sicil shook his head, sighing. “It’s not that I can’t kill her, Noah. The problem is her territory—she’s set up a barrier specifically to repel, just me.”
Noah’s brow furrowed, searching for answers. “You mentioned the Crows… is she working with them?”
Sicil’s gaze darkened. “More than that. They’re business partners, tangled together in a blood trade that keeps her growing stronger. That woman commands creatures called the Black Mist—vicious things, almost like living slime. They feast on blood and reproduce from it. For anyone else, they’re deadly. But some people, they can’t consume—we call them King’s Candidates. Right now, she’s the most powerful of them all, ruling those creatures like a twisted queen.”
Noah’s expression twisted with disgust. “And the Crows? What role do they play in all this?”
Find this and other great novels on the author's preferred platform. Support original creators!
“They’re supplying her with corpses,” Sicil answered, his voice a mixture of anger and resignation. “More bodies mean more food for her creatures, more soldiers at her command. Each body delivered to her fortress strengthens her power.”
Noah’s fists clenched, the spark of resolve blazing in his eyes. “They’re monsters, both of them. I’ll stop them—no matter what it takes.”
Sicil’s expression softened ever so slightly, almost impressed. “Bold words for a new hero. Good luck on that, newbie.”
Noah turned to Lux, a glint of purpose in his eyes. “Lux, let’s head to town. I’d like to see Ava before I start this.”
Lux smirked, folding his arms as he leaned against a tree. “Ah, one last kiss with your lover before you charge into certain doom. How poetic.”
“Don’t tease me,” Noah muttered, cheeks flushing despite himself.
With a playful chuckle, Lux straightened up. “Alright, then. Let’s go see your lady. After all, a hero’s journey deserves a proper send-off.”
Noah wove his way through winding paths as they arrived in Marim, the heart of the Starbell territory.
Noah stepped into the town of Marim, nestled deep within a lush forest. Marim was a forest town like no other, with buildings crafted almost entirely from the great trees that surrounded them. Towering oaks and sturdy cedars had been carefully hollowed to form homes and shops, their trunks woven seamlessly with vines and flowers in a way that made the entire town look like it was born from the forest itself. Leaves fluttered overhead, casting dappled sunlight across the pathways, and lanterns hung from branches, glowing softly in preparation for nightfall.
The cobbled streets were lined with herbal shops, bakeries, and blacksmith stalls. Shopkeepers waved from their windows, and the scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the earthy fragrance of moss and pine. Children ran through the streets, their laughter ringing through the trees as they chased one another, while elders sat in rocking chairs outside their doorways, carving wooden figures and telling tales to whoever would listen.
Everywhere he looked, people were tending to small, cultivated gardens filled with herbs, vegetables, and rare plants, each chosen to attract the vibrant songbirds and tiny animals that darted in and out of sight. At the center of town, a massive ancient tree with sprawling branches held an intricately carved platform, often used for festivals and gatherings. This was the heart of Marim, where the townsfolk would come together to celebrate, share stories, or meet travelers passing through.
Lux observed Marim with mild interest, but Noah’s gaze held a deeper appreciation. This town was alive in a way few places were, its pulse matching the rhythm of the surrounding forest. There was a tranquility here that made Marim feel timeless, as if it would remain untouched for centuries.
As soon as Noah stepped into Marim, he was swept into a tight embrace by a woman with long, lime-green hair woven with delicate blue flowers, her eyes gleaming golden like autumn leaves. She wore a stunning black dress adorned with intricate floral patterns, and her face was lit with both relief and sorrow as tears brimmed in her eyes.
“Noah, I was terrified,” Ava choked, clutching him even tighter. “A few survivors told us bits and pieces of what happened. I’m so glad you’re alive…” Her voice trailed off as she held him, too grateful to let go.
“I’m alright, really,” Noah reassured, trying to wriggle free. “I have a lot to explain, just… could you give me some breathing room?”
Ava’s tearful face turned mischievous as her hand began to glow with a soft yellow light. Her ability pulsed through Noah, locking his limbs in place. “Oh, don’t think you’re getting away that easily,” she teased, holding him in place as the minutes ticked by.
After five whole minutes, she finally released him from her paralyzing hold, stepping back with a playful smirk. “You’d think by now you’d know there’s no escaping my hugs.”
“Yeah, your ability feels weirder each time,” Noah chuckled, still tingling from her power.
Ava’s smile softened as she studied his face. “But… is it really just you, Noah?”
Noah’s expression darkened, and he took a shaky breath. “My parents… they didn’t make it. Isabelle, my sister… the Crows took her. I have no idea where Isaac is. He could be anywhere.” His voice cracked, and he struggled to keep his composure.
Ava’s hand slipped into his, squeezing gently. “We’ll find them. We’ll bring them home. You're not alone in this, Noah.”
“Thank you, thank you,” Noah said, his voice soft with gratitude as he clutched Ava’s hand, grounding himself in her presence.
Lux cleared his throat with an exaggerated cough, reminding them he was still there. “Alright, newbie hero, we really do need to get moving. There’s a mission, remember?”
Ava’s gaze snapped toward Lux, her eyebrows knitting in suspicion. “Mission? What mission?” she asked, her tone demanding answers.
Noah hesitated for only a moment, then spoke with a steadiness that surprised even him. “I am the hero of this era,” he said, meeting her eyes, “and this here is Lux, the god of hope. Our first task is… to slay the Black Witch.”
Ava’s expression went from shock to fury. Without warning, she reached out and grabbed Lux by his collar, shaking him with surprising strength. “How dare you put Noah in that kind of danger, you irresponsible god!”
“H-hey, hey! Show some respect—Noah, help!” Lux stammered, attempting to hold his ground against her death grip.
Noah chuckled, crossing his arms as he watched the spectacle. “Sorry, Lux. Once she’s mad, there’s no escaping it.”
Lux groaned, struggling under her grip. “Listen, he was the best candidate available—could you please stop shaking me? I’m going to be sick…”
Ava released him, letting him regain his balance, but her gaze remained steely. “Fine, I’ll let you off for now. But I’m coming with you,” she said, her finger aimed squarely at Noah.
“What? Ava, you can’t! It’s too dangerous,” Noah protested, his voice rising in alarm.
“Actually…” Lux smirked, clearly amused by the banter. “She’d fit a Berserker role perfectly.”
Ava narrowed her eyes at Lux and shot back, “For your information, you clueless god, my combat class is an assassin.” She gave him a mocking smile, sticking her tongue out.
“Assassin or not, you’d be useful regardless,” Lux conceded, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. “As for you, Noah, I’d say you’d make an excellent paladin with your skill set.”
Noah nodded slowly, considering. “If we’re actually doing this, we need at least someone of the ranger class. I can cover healing and some front-line damage,” he said, his expression determined.
Ava crossed her arms, her face thoughtful. “Agreed. I’m decent with a bow, but my ability and regalia are optimized for stealth and close-quarters combat. So yeah, I’ll be our assassin. But someone with true ranged power would make all the difference.”
Lux nodded approvingly, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. “I can live without a healer or Berserker in the party if Noah’s filling in as our Paladin, but we do need a proper ranger. Ideally, I’d like at least a party of four or a ridiculously powerful ranger
Noah turned to Lux, curiosity in his gaze. “But why can’t you just fight yourself, Lux?”
Lux shrugged, glancing away. “My abilities are potent but come at a steep cost. I burned through most of my energy bringing you back to life, remember?”
Ava’s eyes widened as she turned to Noah. “Killed? Noah, please tell me everything.”
Noah sighed, scratching his head as he tried to find the right words. “I… died during the attack on my family’s territory. It was chaos; I stood no chance. Lux brought me back, but it cost him a lot—and now I’m the new hero.”
“An unfair death, if you ask me,” Lux muttered. “You were up against one of the Crows’ Seven Commanders; it wasn’t even a fight, just bad luck.”
Ava’s fists clenched, her entire demeanor changing as her voice dropped to a dangerous, furious tone. “Tell me where he is,” she growled. “I’ll kill him. I’ll tear him apart.”
“Ava, it’s okay.” Noah placed a calming hand on her shoulder, gesturing to the now-healed wound in his chest, the only remnant of a torn shirt. “See? I’m here, and I’m fine.”
Ava’s tension melted, her lips trembling as her relief turned to gratitude. She looked back at Lux, her eyes misty. “Thank you, Lux… thank you for bringing him back.”
Lux tried to shrug it off, though a touch of genuine warmth flickered in his expression. “I only did it because, out of all the corpses, his had the most promise,” he replied, attempting to sound dismissive.
Ava wiped her tears, regaining her composure. “Actually, I know someone who could fill the ranger role. A strange doctor just showed up in town recently, claiming he was here to hunt the Black Witch. His abilities… they seem to be ice-based.”
Lux’s eyes lit up with renewed interest. “Ice? That’s perfect. The Black Mist has only one major weakness: ice.”
Noah nodded, his resolve hardening. “Alright then, it’s settled. Let’s go find this doctor.”
“He’s staying at the Starlight Inn,” Ava said, her voice filled with anticipation as they prepared to track down their potential ally.
The Starlight Inn was a popular location within Marim, its old wooden walls adorned with rustic lanterns that gave off a soft, warm glow. Sunlight filtered through the stained-glass windows, painting the inn’s oak tables and stone hearth in shades of green, gold, and blue. The steady hum of conversation mixed with the clink of mugs, laughter, and the occasional clash of steel as adventurers sharpened their weapons.
Adventurers from all walks of life filled the space, their tales of quests and skirmishes swirling like smoke. At the bar, a few slouched figures raised their tankards, their weariness evident, while others huddled in corners whispering of treasure and dangers. Survivors of the Fafnir attack were among them, their faces haunted but their spirits unbroken as they nursed drinks or found small comfort in conversation.
Among the crowd, a pair of knights caught Noah’s eye as they disappeared into a room, one garbed in royal purple and the other in deep green. Across the room, a party of adventurers laughed loudly, exchanging drinks and toasting their team, which seemed curiously to be named after a popular tavern.
At the center of the room, a striking figure commanded attention, a man in a crisp white lab coat that contrasted sharply with the warm, earthy tones of the inn. His cyan hair fell in tousled strands across his forehead, and two curved horns jutted proudly from his head, marking him as something other than human. Immaculate white gloves adorned his hands, which hung casually at his sides, yet he exuded an unmistakable aura of restrained power. Most captivating were his eyes: his right eye shone a deep, enigmatic purple, while his left eye glowed with an otherworldly cyan light, a clock symbol imprinted within its iris, ticking softly as if counting down to some unseen event.
“Are you the doctor who seeks to hunt the Black Witch?” Ava inquired, her voice laced with urgency.
“Yes, I am. You may call me Cyrus Sanguine,” he replied, his tone smooth and confident. “And to answer the question that undoubtedly lingers in your minds, yes, Vanitas Sanguine, the 7th Apocalypse of the world—the Apocalypse of Calamity—was indeed my father.”