Chapter Thirty-Three

Lady Serelia

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Serelia and Terranis led us deeper into the garden, their footsteps quiet against the soft earth. I followed closely, my eyes wandering over the various plants and flowers that thrived in this eerie place. The garden was unlike any I had seen, filled with plants that seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly light.

As we walked, I couldn't help but marvel at the exciting flora around us. Some vines glowed softly in the dark, flowers that seemed to pulse with a faint luminescence, and trees with leaves that whispered in the wind. Each plant seemed to hold a secret, a story waiting to be told.

My gaze settled on a particularly striking tree. Its branches adorned with delicate blossoms flickered like tiny flames. I stopped in my tracks, my breath catching in my throat. “Look, Kurai!” I said quietly, elbowing him. “You were right - the Shadowflame Sakura, it’s here!”

Kurai stopped for a second, falling behind as Serelia and Terranis continued on. “This is where I got the seed to grow my own, the one that … well, you, unfortunately, got the last petal for,” Kurai commented, flattening his ears a bit. Besides, it’s just a tree,” he murmured quietly.

I stepped closer, remembering the petal's warmth and how it guided me to Kurai. I reached out to one of the glowing blossoms, which provided that same warmth.

"It's just a tree," he murmured again to me.

"If it was just a tree, you wouldn't have one in your room!" I commented, giving him a sideways glance.

Kurai's cheeks turned a faint shade of pink. "That one... it's different," he muttered, looking away. "I grew it from a seed in the Abyssal Gardens. I told you, it was a gift."

Lady Serelia, who had been listening quietly, nodded. "Indeed," her voice sounded. "Kurai had a special affinity for the Shadowflame Sakura. It was only fitting that he was given one himself."

I looked back at the Demon Queen, her hands neatly folded against her black dress as she stood tall, waiting on us. Though her hardened gaze was focused on me, I still felt at ease—I had Kurai, and now I got to see the Shadowflame Sakura again.

"The Shadowflame Sakura is not just a tree," she continued, her tone softening slightly. "It symbolizes the delicate balance between light and darkness, a balance crucial in our world."

Kurai glanced at Serelia, then back at me. "When I was young, I didn't fully understand its significance," he admitted. "But as I grew older, I realized that the tree represented more than just a beautiful flower. It embodies the duality of our existence, the coexistence of opposing forces."

“No, you didn’t,” She replied. “You thought it the same way, yet you still wanted to learn more about it. I remember the excitement you had on your face when I brought it to you.” I could see a hint of pain in her expression as she regained her posture. “The Shadowflame Sakura teaches us that Harmony is found in accepting light and dark. Kurai’s connection to the tree was a testament to his understanding of balance - the one thing the Underworld lacked.” With that, she turned away.

“Thank you,” I quietly said to Kurai. “I enjoy learning about your past,” I couldn’t help but tease him.

“Yeah, well, don’t get used to it, “he replied, brushing his hand against mine. Come on.”

Lady Serelia cleared her throat, calling out to us, “Let us continue, please. There is much to see, and time is not on your side.”

The two of us continued trailing after the once profound Queen and the Guardian, silence finding us once more.

She led us through the corridors of a large entryway, which was chilling rather quickly.

“Thank you, Terranis; please continue standing guard.”

“Of course, Serelia,” The ancient Guardian replied.

Lady Serelia led us down a long, curved path lined with bookshelves that stretched from floor to ceiling. The books were ancient, their spines cracked, and their pages yellowed with age. Each shelf seemed to hold a trove of forgotten knowledge, the written words whispering secrets of the past. Feather dusters, floating around, would occasionally dust off each book and move to others.

The corridor's walls were adorned with intricate carvings and glowing runes that pulsed with a soft, ethereal light. The air was thick with the scent of old parchment and the faint aroma of blooming flowers, a reminder of the life that thrived even in the depths of Tartarus.

As we walked, the path opened into a grand room, its ceiling curving gracefully upward into an open skylight. Through the skylight, I could see a mesmerizing vista of another world, a realm of swirling colors and shimmering stars that bore no resemblance to the dark, foreboding sky of Tartarus. It was as if we had stepped into a different dimension. In this place, light and darkness coexist in perfect Harmony.

In the center of the room stood an open table, its surface polished to a mirror-like sheen. The table was utterly bare, yet it seemed to hold an air of importance as if it was waiting for something significant to occur. Lady Serelia approached the table with an air of regal authority, and with a graceful flick of her wrist, chairs materialized around it, their ornate designs matching the room's elegance.

“Have a seat. Are we hungry, perhaps?” Lady Serelia's voice was calm and inviting, yet it carried a certain weight that commanded respect.

I sat without speaking, sensing that respecting her wishes was best. The cushion beneath me was soft, and the chair's design provided perfect support, making it clear that these were no ordinary seats.

Kurai remained standing, his tails slightly swishing behind him as he addressed Lady Serelia. “Lady Serelia,” he began, his tone respectful yet firm. “I appreciate the offer, but we are on a mission.” His eyes met hers, and there was a silent understanding between them.

Lady Serelia nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. “Of course, Kurai. I understand the urgency of your mission,” she replied. “But even those on important quests must take a moment to rest and replenish their strength.” She gestured to the chairs, inviting him to sit.

Kurai hesitated for a moment before finally taking a seat next to me. His posture remained alert, a testament to his dedication and resolve. “Thank you, Lady Serelia,” he said, his voice softer but still resolute. “We won’t stay long.”

As we sat around the table, I couldn't help but feel the weight of the room's history pressing down on us. The books lining the walls, the intricate designs, and the open skylight to another world all seemed to be watching, waiting for the next chapter of our journey to unfold.

Lady Serelia nodded in acknowledgment of Kurai's words, her expression serene. With an elegant snap of her fingers, the atmosphere in the room shifted. A faint, otherworldly glow enveloped the table, and within moments, an exquisite feast appeared before our eyes.

The transformation was nothing short of magical. Platters laden with various dishes materialized, each more delectable than the last. There were golden roasted meats, their skin crispy and juices glistening; bowls of vibrant fruits and vegetables that seemed to have just been plucked from the garden of Eden; and intricate pastries that looked too beautiful to eat. The aromas wafting from the food were intoxicating, filling the room with a symphony of scents that made my mouth water.

Lady Serelia took her seat at the head of the table, her presence commanding yet inviting. "Please, help yourselves," she said, her eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief. "I assure you, this meal is not only delicious but will also provide the strength you need for your journey."

I hesitated momentarily, still in awe of the feast that had appeared so effortlessly. Kurai, however, remained cautious. "Lady Serelia, we appreciate your generosity," he said, his tone careful. "Is it safe?” He questioned her.

Lady Serelia’s laughter was like a light melody filled with mirth. “Oh Kurai, you’re as funny as I remember,” She said, her voice soothing. “You wound me, though; do you not remember our meals together?”

With another flick of her wrist, a small ornate goblet filled with the shimmering liquid appeared before her. She took a delicate sip and set it down, her eyes never leaving Kurai’s. “No harm done,” She said with a genuine smile.

Kurai's tail flicked slightly, a sign of his internal conflict. Finally, he nodded and took a seat next to me. He picked up a piece of fruit and examined it closely before taking a cautious bite. The tension in his posture eased slightly as he chewed, and I followed suit, selecting a piece of the roasted meat.

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As we began to eat, the food's warmth spread through me, revitalizing my body and mind. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted, rich and complex yet perfectly balanced. It was as if each bite held a piece of Lady Serelia's infernal realm, a taste of the power and grandeur that she commanded.

“Now,” Lady Serelia began, folding her hands gracefully in her lap. “Tell me more about this mission of yours. Perhaps I can assist you.”

Kurai glanced at me before speaking and responded, “Things have gone to absolute shit in the Underworld Realm,” He said. “The entire Underworld believes you’re dead - including Mundus and Astaroth.”

“Mundus is a powerful entity that deserved his throne right,” She told him, swishing the goblet.

“Does he, though, Serelia? Do you have any idea how he took the throne when you were pronounced, well, dead?” He asked her. “The Reaper disappeared - The Spirit Walkers disappeared, and the Celestial Realm has taken over the guidance of souls.” The nogitsune replied, his ears flickering slightly with annoyance.

Lady Serelia's eyes darkened slightly, though she maintained her composure. “Kurai,” she said gently, ignoring the disrespect in his tone, “there’s a lot you don’t know.” She sighed deeply, the weight of her words pressing down on the room. “I can’t change what Mundus has done to the Realm of Hell.”

“You could… you know, come back? Show the Realm that you’re not dead?” Kurai's voice was almost pleading, his frustration evident.

Her gaze lowered, a tinge of sadness hinting at it. “I can’t do that,” she replied softly.

I watched her expressions closely. Her hands had tightened and clenched in her lap as she spoke about it. Immediately, I knew she was hiding something she didn’t want Kurai to know.

“Why not?!” Kurai demanded, his voice rising with a mix of anger and desperation. “They are absolutely the worst spirit guides I’ve ever seen!”

Lady Serelia's eyes met Kurai's, and for a moment, there was a flicker of pain in her gaze. She took a deep breath, calming herself before speaking. “Kurai, it is not as simple as you think,” she began. “Returning to the Realm of Hell would require more than just my presence. There are ancient laws and powerful bindings that prevent me from doing so. Mundus's influence is strong, and my reappearance could cause more harm than good.”

Kurai's tails swished more violently, a clear sign of his agitation. “Then what are we supposed to do? Just let the Realm fall apart?” His voice was getting feistier, and I could see the strain in his posture. His gaze flickered to me, and he stood back up. “You have a Mortal here in the Realm of Tartarus because it’s easy to get here. You could easily just leave!”

Lady Serelia’s expression hardened slightly. “Correct, a mortal who should not have entered through the Realm of Tartarus,” she responded, her voice calm and measured.

I wanted to speak up, defend myself, or at least explain how I ended up here, but I felt like I’d be stepping on toes. I have kept quiet for now, but I'm feeling anxious. The tension in the room was palpable, and I could sense Kurai’s frustration mounting.

“That’s not even all,” He said and yanked me up out of her chair, showing her my side that was completely obliterated by the mark that, I swear, has grown larger. “We just found out this ‘mortal’ is the Reaper - and she’s marked by the very same demon here in Tartarus! They know she’s the Reaper, and now they want to end her life too. I… I can’t let that happen,” He said, his eyes growing with fear and anger. “I’m supposed to be the Guardian due to some stupid pact by the Lady in Red to protect her. What happens if I fail, Serelia? What if I can’t keep her safe?”

His voice cracked with fear and anger, his eyes darting between Serelia and me. I noticed Serelia’s gaze soften slightly as she looked at the mark. For a fleeting second, I thought I saw a hint of something else—protectiveness? Recognition? But the moment passed quickly, leaving me more confused than ever.

Serelia’s gaze shifted to me, her eyes lingering on mine momentarily before dropping to the demon mark on my side. I couldn't decipher the emotions flickering across her face, but there was something more than just concern.

I reached out to Kurai, frowning as he held my hand tightly and then turned toward Serelia. “I don’t know you,” I said to her sadly. But I know that all those souls out there—not here, because I’m not sure why, but the souls in Hell need me. From the stories I’ve been told by Yushin and now Mati, I need to help them.”

“So, you’re the Reaper then?” She asked me, completely ignoring Kurai’s attitude and my comment. The woman stood up, standing tall with her hands folded. “You’re the Reaper that’s replaced the Lady in Red. You’re just a mortal, though; how? I’m surprised you haven’t been devoured by the demon yet,” Her voice was straightforward forward, and her blood-red gaze fell on Kurai. “It looks like you've been doing your job then, Kurai. Well done.”

I stiffened as she asked me that. "I am the Underworld's New Reaper, yes."

"You're a bit young, don't you think?" She questioned me.

"Well, I mean, I don't know. I'm not a demon—I'm only what? 28? Yeah. 28. But I just found out that I was the Reaper, thanks to Yushin." My voice rattled a bit as my gaze trailed down. "I was given up by the Lady in Red to some powerful sorcerers; I'm not sure why."

"Given up, you say?" Lady Serelia asked, curious. "Are you sure it wasn't to keep you safe - being you're a mortal?"

"That's another thing! Everyone keeps calling me a mortal - or 'Little Snow,' and then I've been introduced as Aria Kirasa! I don't know who I am anymore! Ren and Sayuri, who weren't even my real parents, apparently died to the same demon that supposedly killed my real parents and the previous Lords - well, you!" I rambled, beginning to pace back and forth as I felt lost. "I get teleported to the Celestial Realm, and meet Mati, who, by the way, is kind of an asshole, but he told me that I was the new Reaper. It's all a lot! Now I'm here, in Tartarus, with my 'mortal' self, and I'm chasing a damned Demon and Sorcerer who is one of the strongest ones here!" I began to breathe heavily as my voice cracked at the end.

Kurai rested his hand on my shoulder, trying to calm me, but I shrugged it off.

"So again, I don't know who you are or what significance you have any more—but if you're important to the Underworld and Kurai, I... I ask you to please help us," I said, my eyes locking with hers. "I'm sorry, that was rude."

A smirk appeared on her face as she listened to me. "I see you're about as feisty as Kurai there." A sigh escaped her as she approached the two of us. Lady Serelia’s expression softened slightly as she looked at me again, but her eyes were still intense. “The demon mark is a powerful curse. It’s a miracle you’ve survived this long. But if you truly are the Reaper, perhaps there’s more to you than meets the eye.”

I felt a shiver run down my spine at her words. I didn’t know what being the Reaper meant, but I knew I couldn’t back down now. “I have to help those souls,” I said firmly. “I can’t let them suffer.”

Serelia nodded slowly, her gaze never leaving mine. “Very well. We will find a way to protect you and help you fulfill your duty. But you must be prepared for the dangers ahead. The path you’re on is fraught with peril.”

“They need me - I don’t know what I’m doing, but Astaroth has promised to teach me - and so has Yushin.”

When I mentioned Astaroth, a small smile had grown on her face. “How is he doing?” she asked us calmly.

“What? This isn’t about Astaroth!” Kurai snapped.

“Calm down, Kurai,” She sighed. “You still have yet to be able to control your anger.” Her gaze flickered between us before falling on our hands. “I see you’ve come quite close with one another.”

Realization struck, and we both pulled our hands away from one another, embarrassed. This wasn’t the time to hold hands.

“That’s not the point,” Kurai grumbled. “I still have a contract—one that I intend to keep until I know her threat is gone.”

“She will have more threats, Kurai. You know this, right?” Lady Serelia stated, gazing at the Nogitsune’s tails and reaching to cup one. “She is the Lady in Red’s daughter—she will be hunted down until she dies.” Her voice hardened on the last word. "Just as he hunted the previous."

“I’d like to stay alive if all is the same,” I said, with a slight grin, putting my hands together.

Serelia’s expression softened briefly, a flicker of something like sorrow crossing her face, but her tone remained stern. “Survival is not enough, Snow. You must be strong, resilient, and ruthless if necessary. You carry the legacy of the Lady in Red—not just her daughter, but as the next Reaper. The world will not show you mercy, and neither will your enemies. “

Her words stung, but I could sense an underlying care in her tone. It was as if she was pushing me to be stronger, to rise to the challenge ahead.

“Remember, weakness will not be tolerated,” Serelia continued, her gaze intense. “You have a duty to those souls, but you also have a duty to yourself. Do not let your guard down or let emotions cloud your judgment. Black Magic is a major downfall in a lot of Reaper's.”

I swallowed hard, feeling a mix of fear and determination. “I understand. I’ll do whatever it takes.”

“Good!” Lady Serelia said, nodding to us. “In the meantime, I have some plants I must attend to. Make yourself comfortable. There are rooms down the hall. Do try to stay quiet so my plants are not disturbed. And please, you’re both absolutely disgusting. Go shower! There are clothes and anything else you may need.” With that, she turned away and left the room.

As the door closed behind her, I turned to Kurai, who still seemed tense. “What now?” I asked, trying to shake off the lingering unease.

Kurai clenched his fists, scowling. “Can you believe her? She just walks away like that, as if nothing ever happened. After all these years, she still keeps secrets.”

I could see the hurt and anger in his eyes. “Kurai,” I said softly, touching his arm. I then remembered he hadn’t slept in almost a week, either. “Why not rest, finally?” I asked him. “Let’s go check out the rooms,” I suggested.

He let out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through his hair. “Yeah, yeah. Let’s check out the rooms,” he muttered, storming down the hall.

The hallway was lined with doors, each leading to a small but cozy room. I chose one and stepped inside, taking in the simple furnishings—a bed, a small table, and a window overlooking the garden. It was peaceful, starkly contrasting to the chaos I had been through.

Kurai followed me in, still simmering with anger. “Look, I know this is a lot right now. You’re injured, being chased, and all kinds of things. I can feel you worry, and you have so many questions that you want answered,” he said, his tone a bit more aggressive. I’m not sure what’s going to happen next—but if it means I have to go after them now, I will.”

I smiled at him, grateful for his support despite his frustration. However, I was still worried about being found—and Enoxon. I really hope Enoxon wasn’t a traitor, but Kurai felt different. It seems he was angry at everything, Lady Serelia, Enoxon, and who knows what else.

“They won’t find us here, luckily. We’ll be ready - if we can take out this demon, that’s one less thing you’ve got to face. Get some rest so we can be ready.”

“What if-”

He groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose as he turned once more to face me, putting his hands on my shoulders. “No, no more ‘what ifs’.” He pulled me into a tight embrace, the warmth of his body pressing against mine as he rested his head on mine. “One step at a time, we can’t rush into battles, right?” He questioned me, a faint smile tugging at him.

Finding solace in his words, I clung to him for a moment. My determination fueled —I had to do this. I had to finish this for the Underworld and myself. I couldn’t be demon food, though; at this moment, staying in his arms was the best feeling. I nodded slowly, and then he let me go.

“Get some sleep—it’s going to be a long day when we wake up,” Kurai said, ruffling my hair a bit, a grin showing on his face. And she’s right, you know.”

“About?”

His eyes locked with mine, “You’re stench. You stink,” His voice teased.

Embarrassed, I quickly turned away and said, “GOODNIGHT!” and disappeared into the room.