As we settled into our seats, I took a moment to absorb the vibrant atmosphere of the inn. The hum of conversation, the clinking of glasses, and the savory aroma of food filled the air, creating a comforting backdrop to our evening.
Suddenly, my mother rose from her seat, her graceful movements commanding attention. "Giselle, my dear, I need to attend to something upstairs. Stay here and keep an eye on our belongings," she instructed, her tone gentle yet authoritative.
I nodded, watching as she disappeared up the staircase, leaving me alone at the table. Despite the bustling surroundings, I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me, relishing the opportunity for quiet reflection.
However, my solitude was short-lived as a disheveled man approached our table, his unsteady gait betraying his inebriated state. With a leering grin, he addressed me in a slurred voice, "Well, well, what's a little lady like yourself doing in a place like this?"
Maintaining my composure, I met his gaze with a cool, unwavering stare. "I assure you, sir, my presence here is none of your concern," I replied, injecting a note of polite defiance into my tone.
Undeterred by my response, the man leaned in closer, his breath reeking of alcohol. "You should learn to respect your elders, girl," he admonished, his words laced with thinly veiled hostility.
Refusing to back down, I maintained my poise, unfurling a subtle yet assertive retort. "Respect is earned through actions, not merely age or authority," I countered, my voice carrying a hint of steely resolve.
Incensed by my defiance, the man's demeanor grew increasingly aggressive, his face contorted with anger. Before he could escalate the situation further, a waitress intervened, her firm yet tactful intervention diffusing the tension.
"Sir, I must insist that you refrain from causing a disturbance," she admonished, her tone firm but respectful. "Violence against patrons, especially young ones, will not be tolerated in this establishment."
Reluctantly, the man relented, albeit begrudgingly, muttering a string of curses under his breath as he retreated to a nearby table.
With the altercation diffused, I breathed a sigh of relief, grateful for the waitress's timely intervention. As she turned her attention back to me, I offered her a grateful smile, silently thanking her for her assistance.
As I pondered the unsettling encounter with the intoxicated man, a wave of melancholy washed over me, mingled with a touch of indignation. It was disheartening to witness such blatant disregard for respect and decency, particularly towards young women like myself.
Lost in my thoughts, I was roused from my contemplation by the gentle voice of the waitress. "Little miss, here are your orders," she announced, her tone warm and reassuring.
Turning my attention to the table, I beheld the array of tantalizing dishes that had been laid out before me. The sight of steaming plates filled with savory delights stirred a pang of hunger within me, prompting my mouth to water in anticipation.
However, before I could indulge in the feast before me, my gaze was drawn to the staircase, where the familiar figures of my family began to descend. Saori, ever the bookworm, remained engrossed in her reading, her brow furrowed in concentration. Anco, on the other hand, appeared to be in a state of drowsy lethargy, her eyelids drooping with fatigue.
Father, as always, exuded an aura of cheerfulness, his eyes twinkling with mirth as he exchanged banter with Mother. In contrast, Mother's expression remained composed and neutral, betraying little of her inner thoughts or emotions.
As they approached our table, I felt a sense of relief wash over me, grateful for their reassuring presence amidst the bustling chaos of the inn. With my family by my side, I knew that I could weather any storm, drawing strength from the unbreakable bonds that bound us together.
As my family gathered around the table in the bustling inn, my mother's voice cut through the chatter. "Everyone, since we're in the holy city, it'd be bad manners to eat without saying prayers."
Anco's eyes widened in disbelief, and she blurted out, "Prayers? For what?"
I couldn't help but intervene. "Maybe for respect and thankfulness towards the gods," I suggested, trying to keep the peace.
Anco rolled her eyes dismissively and wasted no time digging into her food. My father, always the peacemaker, chimed in, "Ah, dear Anco is right. Let's just eat."
But my mother, ever the stickler for tradition, wasn't having it. "You always pick up for Anco," she sighed, addressing my father. "Fine, continue eating, but I'll teach each of the girls to pray. In Berlynne, it's common to pray before eating, and I can't have them embarrassing me."
Turning to Saori, who was engrossed in her book, I suggested, "Sister, we're going to eat. Perhaps you should leave the book for a while and join us."
Saori looked up, her eyes gleaming with excitement from her reading marathon. "Yes, you're right, sister. I must fuel up so I can dive back into my reading later."
With a strange smile, I accepted her response, silently acknowledging her dedication to her book.
The meal was a delight, especially the cake, a rare treat we didn't often indulge in back home. Once I finished, I excused myself from the table, feeling the lingering gaze of the man who had previously approached me in the inn.
Retreating to our room, I settled back onto the bed where I had been seated earlier, book in hand. Opening the tome about the gods, I began my journey into the world of divine beings. Starting from the first page.
Fifteen minutes passed in a blur as I immersed myself in the ancient wisdom held within the pages of the book.
"Ahh, I see," I murmured to myself, nodding in understanding. "So there are basically seven gods, and they rule over the entire universe together." I recited their names like a mantra, committing them to memory: "The god of magic, Inas; Udon, the god of destruction; Uvelia, the goddess of love; Zedos, the god of creation; Riana, the goddess of pleasure; Donetta, the goddess of honesty; and Ijun, the god of chaos."
As I delved deeper, I learned about the existence of demi-gods, beings of lesser power compared to the main gods. The book revealed that there were hundreds of demi-gods, each with their own unique abilities and traits. It was a fascinating glimpse into the intricate hierarchy of divine beings.
Continuing my journey through the text, I discovered the mythic origins of the universe. The seven gods had joined forces, using their incomprehensible power to forge entire universes and higher dimensions. Among their creations was the world we inhabit, known as Ivory. According to legend, Ivory was one of the largest planets ever created by the gods, a testament to their boundless creativity and skill.
As I absorbed this knowledge, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate tapestry of mythology laid out before me. It was no wonder Saori was so captivated by these tales; they offered a glimpse into a world of wonder and magic.
Turning the page, I found myself drawn into the story of Inas, the god of magic. Described as supremely powerful, Inas's mastery of magic was unrivaled among the gods. It was said that he had bestowed much of his power throughout the universe, seeding the concept of magic into the fabric of reality itself.
With a curious mind, I delved into the next chapter, eager to learn more about the enigmatic gods. My attention was immediately drawn to Udon, the god of destruction, whose reputation preceded him.
"Udon," I read aloud, absorbing the words on the page. "The mightiest of warriors, unafraid to spread destruction throughout the universe." It was a chilling description, yet it hinted at the immense power wielded by this formidable deity.
As I continued reading, I stumbled upon a revelation that took me by surprise. "The god of destruction and the god of chaos once fought?" I murmured, incredulous. The book detailed a clash between Udon and Ijun, the god of chaos, driven by a rivalry born of pride and superiority.
According to the text, Ijun's disdain for Udon's perceived arrogance led to a cataclysmic confrontation. The two gods engaged in a battle of titanic proportions, unleashing devastation on a scale that defied comprehension. Even more astonishing was the revelation that they had barely tapped into their true power, yet their conflict had resulted in the destruction of entire universes and dimensions.
"Such power," I whispered, awestruck by the magnitude of their abilities. "To destroy universes with only a fraction of their strength... It's beyond comprehension."
Yet, amid the chaos and destruction, a nagging question lingered in my mind. "Shouldn't they be allies?" I pondered aloud. "After all, destruction and chaos seem to go hand in hand."
Lost in thought, I reflected on the teachings passed down by my mother, snippets of wisdom about Ivory and the universe. Though she had never spoken of the gods directly, her words now took on new significance as I grappled with the divine complexities laid bare before me.
A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.
Soon before I knew it my family had entered. As my family entered the room, their tired expressions told tales of the day's journey. One by one, they slipped under the covers, ready to surrender to the embrace of sleep. Amidst their quiet preparations for rest, I seized the opportunity to bask in the tranquility of the night. With a gentle creak, I swung open a nearby window, inviting the cool evening breeze to dance through the room.
Positioning myself by the window, I sought solace in the soft glow of the moonlight cascading onto the pages of my book. The words unfurled like petals in a gentle breeze as I delved deeper into the mystical realm of the gods.
My journey led me to the enchanting tale of Uvelia, the benevolent goddess of love. Her essence seemed to leap from the pages, infusing the air with a delicate fragrance of compassion and affection. Through her divine power, she bestowed emotions upon all living beings, nurturing the very essence of love within their hearts.
As I absorbed the essence of Uvelia's character, my thoughts wandered to her friendship with Riana, the mischievous goddess of pleasure. Their bond, despite their seemingly contrasting domains, hinted at the intricate tapestry of relationships among the gods.
"The goddess Uvelia and Riana are said to be good friends," I murmured softly, pondering the depths of their connection. Though Riana's playful nature often led her down unconventional paths, her friendship with Uvelia spoke volumes about the harmonious balance between love and pleasure in the divine realm.
With each revelation, the boundaries of my imagination expanded, weaving intricate patterns of intrigue and wonder. Yet, amidst the celestial tapestry of gods and goddesses, one question lingered, like a shadow in the moonlight: What secrets lay hidden within the folds of this mystical universe?
As I journeyed deeper into the lore of the divine, my gaze fell upon Zedos, the formidable god of creation, whose presence seemed to resonate across the cosmos. Revered as the pinnacle of power and adoration, Zedos commanded the awe and respect of every deity in the celestial hierarchy. Yet, shrouded in mystery, his enigmatic nature left scholars and believers alike yearning for a glimpse into the depths of his boundless power.
"The god of creation, Zedos, stands as the embodiment of omnipotence," I mused, captivated by the allure of his divine essence. His influence stretched far beyond the confines of mortal comprehension, shaping the very fabric of reality with each breath.
As my thoughts lingered on the grandeur of Zedos, they seamlessly transitioned to the goddess of honesty, Donetta, whose unwavering gaze pierced through the veils of deception and illusion. With a clarity unmatched by mortal eyes, she beheld the truths hidden within the depths of the soul, illuminating the path of righteousness for those who sought her guidance.
"The goddess Donetta, keeper of truth and integrity," I whispered, awestruck by the depth of her insight. Her impartial nature, coupled with an unwavering commitment to honesty, earned her the devotion of countless followers, each drawn to the luminous beacon of her divine wisdom.
As I contemplated the intricate tapestry of gods and goddesses, a singular question echoed in the recesses of my mind, casting a shadow of curiosity over my thoughts. "Dragons huh the text stated that they're creatures said to know more about the gods than any man," I pondered, my imagination ignited by the mention of these legendary beings who purportedly held the key to divine knowledge.
In the hushed stillness of the night, the distant crowing of a rooster shattered the silence, signaling the arrival of dawn. With a jolt, I realized the passage of time, my nocturnal exploration of the divine realms leaving me immersed in a world of wonder.
Closing the window with a gentle sigh, I surrendered to the embrace of sleep, allowing the mysteries of the universe to drift into the realm of dreams, where even the most elusive truths may find solace.
Three hours later, I found myself jolting awake as a sharp pinch jolted me from my slumber. Blinking groggily, I turned to find Anco standing beside me, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. "Ahh, finally awake, dimwit?" she teased, her voice laced with amusement.
Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I shot her a bemused look. "Why'd you pinch me?" I asked, my voice still thick with sleep.
Anco shrugged nonchalantly, a playful glint in her eyes. "Do I need a reason? It's just because you're you," she quipped, her tone teasing. "Anyway, Mom said to clean up in the inn bathroom and then come down."
Nodding in acknowledgment, I stretched lazily before swinging my legs out of bed. As I prepared to heed my mother's instructions, my mind wandered back to the book I had immersed myself in the night before, its tales of gods and mythical powers still lingering in my thoughts.
Tidying up my bed with practiced efficiency, I retrieved my hairbrush and clothing from my travel bag, taking a moment to carefully select my attire for the day. With a sense of anticipation bubbling within me, I made my way to the inn's bathroom, noting the fragrant herbs and fresh water that awaited me within.
Stepping into the comforting warmth of the bath, I allowed the soothing scent of the herbs to envelop me, washing away the lingering remnants of sleep and revitalizing my senses. Emerging from the bath feeling refreshed and invigorated, I dressed quickly before turning my attention to my hair.
As I meticulously combed through my long, white locks, I couldn't help but admire my reflection in the mirror, a sense of satisfaction washing over me as I took in my appearance. "Ah, I'm looking beautiful once more," I remarked to myself, a hint of playful arrogance coloring my tone. "Surely, I must be blessed by the goddess of love."
Descending the stairs to the bustling common area of the inn, I noted with interest the increased activity compared to the previous night. Taking my place at the table where my family sat, I greeted each member with a warm smile, the familiar camaraderie of our morning routine bringing a sense of comfort to my heart.
"Good morning, Mother, Father, and sisters," I chimed in, my voice filled with genuine warmth as I settled into my seat. While my mother, father, and Saori returned my greeting with equal enthusiasm, Anco remained preoccupied with her breakfast, her attention fully consumed by the savory delights before her.
Inspecting the plate before me, I raised an eyebrow inquisitively and directed my question to Saori. "Bread and?" I queried, eager to learn more about the unfamiliar dish.
Saori glanced up from her own meal, a gentle smile gracing her features as she replied, "That's bread and apple jam. It's quite a delightful combination."
"Apple jam?" I repeated, a hint of curiosity coloring my tone as I considered the novel pairing.
With a scoff, Anco interjected, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "It's like a spread made from apples, the fruit, you simpleton," she remarked, unable to resist the opportunity to tease.
Rolling my eyes at her retort, I reached for the bread and apple jam, intrigued by its promise of flavor. As I took my first bite, a burst of sweetness flooded my senses, the jam melding perfectly with the soft texture of the bread.
Eyes sparkling with delight, I found myself unable to resist the temptation to indulge further, savoring each mouthful with unabashed enthusiasm. However, my enjoyment was short-lived as Anco's taunting words cut through the air, momentarily dampening the jovial atmosphere.
"Hah! It seems you've attracted some admirers, both you and Saori," Anco remarked with a mocking laugh, her words laced with derision. "I suppose since the two of you are so stunningly gorgeous, it's only natural for admirers to flock to your side, hahahaha."
Ignoring Anco's barbed comments, I exchanged a knowing glance with Saori, a silent understanding passing between us. Though her words may sting, we refused to let them tarnish the warmth and camaraderie of our family breakfast, choosing instead to focus on the simple pleasures of good food and cherished company.
As Anco's words hung in the air, my parents swiftly pivoted to confront the men, their expressions darkening with fury as they shot the intruders a withering glare.
"How dare simpletons like them lay eyes on my beautiful babies?" my father seethed, his voice laced with barely-contained rage.
"Indeed, dear. Their audacity to cast such disgusting looks upon our children is utterly presumptuous," my mother added, her tone sharp with indignation.
Turning to face Anco with a mischievous smirk, I couldn't resist a teasing jab. "Looks like you've got quite the admirers, Anco. Especially that rotund fellow. I can already picture you two as the perfect match."
Anco's jaw clenched, her irritation palpable as she shot me a venomous glare. "Giselle, you—Well, compared to the unsightly gazes you were attracting, he's practically a catch. Maybe you should consider marrying those ogres," she retorted, her words dripping with sarcasm.
Before our banter could escalate further, Saori intervened, her voice calm but firm. "Enough, both of you. We're not entertaining any thoughts of marriage with those gentlemen, so let's put an end to this nonsense."
Chastened by Saori's reprimand and our father's warning look, Anco and I reluctantly lapsed into silence, begrudgingly conceding to her wisdom.
Once we had finished our meal and returned to the room to pack our belongings, we emerged from the inn, ready to resume our journey. Following our father's lead, we made our way through the bustling streets until we reached a gathering of wagons, where our father conducted his business and secured transportation for our family.
Settling into the Wagon, we embarked on the next leg of our journey, the rhythmic clatter of hooves against cobblestones marking our departure from the holy city.
As the city gradually receded into the distance, my mother's voice broke the silence, her words tinged with caution. "Girls, we may not reach our next destination by nightfall, so we'll need to make camp."
"Camping out? Isn't that risky? What if bandits or dangerous creatures attack us?" I voiced my concerns, a note of apprehension creeping into my tone.
"Giselle makes a valid point, Mother, but it seems we have little choice," Saori conceded, her expression troubled yet resigned.
In contrast, Anco's eyes lit up with excitement at the prospect of adventure. "Camping out? Fantastic! Finally, something more thrilling than dining like pampered princesses or engaging in dull conversations with you two," she remarked with a smirk, her tone dripping with sarcasm and superiority.
I shot Anco a pointed glare in response to her taunting, but deep down, I couldn't deny a twinge of excitement at the prospect of our upcoming outdoor escapade.
Time passed and it got dark which made our father think to find a good place to camp. As our father guided the wagon through the terrain, carefully selecting the spot that seemed most suitable for a rest, my mother and father disembarked, instructing us siblings to remain within the confines of the wagon. We patiently awaited their return, the minutes ticking by until a sudden illumination outside caught our attention. Saori and I exchanged eager glances, our curiosity piqued, as we peered out to witness our parents by a crackling fire.
Noticing our intrigue, my mother gestured for us to join them, her motions clear even from a distance. Saori, unable to contain her excitement, nudged Anco, urging her to follow suit. Stepping out from the Wagon, I observed my father tending to the flames, skewering what appeared to be succulent cuts of meat on sticks.
"Father, is that indeed meat?" I inquired, my gaze fixed on the savory skewers.
"Yes, Giselle. These provisions were wisely packed by your mother and me in anticipation of such occasions during our journey. Come, my girls, lend me a hand in cooking them over the fire," my father responded warmly.
With a nod of understanding, Saori, Anco, and I approached, sprinkling salt over the meat before impaling them on sticks and positioning them over the crackling flames. We worked in tandem with our mother, the savory aroma tantalizing our senses as the meat gradually cooked to perfection. Soon, we indulged in the fruits of our labor, savoring each bite as the communal meal strengthened our familial bond.
However, our tranquil evening was interrupted by an unsettling rustling emanating from the nearby bushes, sending shivers down our spines.
"Mother, father, what could that be?" Saori's voice trembled with apprehension, her fear palpable in the dim light.
"Ah, perhaps something of interest stirring in the wilderness?" Anco interjected, attempting to mask her own unease with a hint of bravado.
Quick to reassure us, my father stepped forward, positioning himself protectively in front of our mother and us, his instincts as a guardian kicking into high gear. Yet, the ominous sound persisted, hinting at the possibility of a looming threat that could potentially jeopardize our safety.