Chapter Twenty-Eight

The Road to Tartarus

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The night continued with Enoxon and I talking and sharing stories from our past lives. Mine was being with stories about my human realm friends—one he said he missed having. He told me he didn’t have many friends from the human realm, but he was glad to have me. It was nice having someone around who was human—even if I wasn’t a complete human anymore, or I guess I never had been.

I heard soft snoring on my other side and guessed Enoxon had drifted asleep. He looked exhausted when they awed me in the Reaper’s Cove. Carefully, I climbed off the bed, looking over the sorcerer, half on my bed and half hanging off. I grabbed my dagger underneath my pillow and a backpack from the closet. The Grimoire that Astaroth gave me was sitting on the desk. I approached it, staring at it. I didn’t even hesitate.

“Sorry, Enoxon,” I murmured to him as I scrambled to my feet. I grabbed a few things from my closet and explored the rest of the house. I needed to find something that I could use, right?

I was going to go to Tartarus.

Without Enoxon. I wasn’t going to let him put himself through danger like that. I was the one the demons wanted, right?

The fox leaped off my bed behind me, tilting its head as it gazed at me, its purple eyes shimmering with curiosity. It scrutinized me as if questioning my actions. I hushed it and quietly crept out of my room. Wandering up and down the hallway, I searched for Enoxon. Being a sorcerer, he might have some items I could use. I checked the various doors in the hallway before finally finding Enoxon’s. After a moment of hesitation, I took a deep breath and opened the door. "For Kurai," I whispered.

As I stepped into Enoxon's room, the disarray immediately struck me. Papers and scrolls were scattered everywhere, artifacts and trinkets lay amidst open books, and strange, glowing symbols adorned the walls.

Trying to make as little noise as possible, I searched the room. I needed something that could help me navigate through Tartarus. Enoxon had spent much time researching the underworld—there had to be something useful here.

I first checked the desk, which was overflowing with parchment and old maps. Carefully, I sifted through the piles, looking for anything that resembled a map or guide to Tartarus. Among the mess, I found a rolled-up piece of parchment labeled "Paths of Tartarus." My heart raced; this could be precisely what I needed.

Next, I turned to my fox familiar, who had followed me silently into the room. "Find something useful," I whispered. The fox's purple eyes shimmered with understanding as it sniffed around the room, darting between piles of books and artifacts.

While the fox searched, I moved to the shelves filled with vials and bottles. Enoxon was known for his elixirs—perhaps there was one that could grant protection or enhance my abilities. After searching, I found a small vial labeled "Elixir of Vitality." It was said to boost one's endurance and strength, which is precisely what I might need to survive the harsh conditions of Tartarus.

Just then, the fox gave a soft yip, drawing my attention. It had found something beneath a stack of ancient tomes. I quickly moved to see what it had discovered. There, hidden under the books, was a peculiar artifact—a small, glowing amulet pulsed with a gentle blue light.

Curiosity piqued, I picked up the amulet and felt a slight warmth. Although I needed to figure out its purpose, something told me it could prove helpful on my journey.

With the map, elixir, and the mysterious amulet in hand, I took one last look at Enoxon, still asleep and blissfully unaware, and whispered, "Thank you." I gestured for the fox to follow. I sat this stuff down at the desk in his room to examine the paths and markings. The detailed map showed various routes, landmarks, and Dangers within Tartarus. I needed this map to get through the place.

The Elixir of Vitality was securely placed in my pouch, ready to be used. I held the amulet in my hand, still unsure of its purpose but feeling a strange sense of reassurance from its gentle glow. I wore it around my neck, hoping its hidden power would reveal itself when it was right.

As I finished my preparations, I glanced at my familiar fox. "Ready?" I asked softly. The fox gave a slight nod, its eyes filled with determination. With everything in place, I took a deep breath and opened the door to the outside world.

Was the portal to Tartarus still open? After leaving Enoxon’s room, I went back to Kurai’s room. Sure enough, the portal—still glimmering through the door to the outside porch—opened. I stared at it, looking around the nogitsune’s scorched and now blood-stained room.

“Kurai, what happened?” I asked, my eyes resting on the now scorched and wilted white cherry blossom tree—the Shadowflame Sakura. Kurai told me it was a plant that allowed increased fire resistance. Perhaps it would be helpful?

I scanned the tree to see if there were any leaves or flowers left. At the top, there was one fully blooming white flower. I reached up to it and gently preened it, hoping to use it.

“I don’t know what I’m doing,” I murmured sadly, holding it close. “But I need to save Kurai,” I whispered. “Please.” As if this flower could hear me.

Gently wrapping it up, I placed it in my bag on top of my other things. “Let’s go, Ember,” I told the little fox.

I approached the door leading to Tartarus once more. Taking a deep breath, I picked up Ember, held it close, and stepped through the portal into a world unknown.

As I crossed the threshold, the air around me changed instantly. It was heavy, filled with the scent of sulfur and a strange, oppressive energy. The landscape before me was like nothing I had ever seen—a desolate, rocky expanse with rivers of molten lava crisscrossing the ground. The sky was an eerie shade of red, with dark clouds swirling ominously.

“Woah, it’s a completely different realm! There’s not a drop of ice or snow here,” I commented, staring at everything in front of me. “I’m not even sure where to begin. Where would whoever have taken Tartarus? I don’t know a single thing about this place.” I murmured, feeling overwhelmed. But when I turned back around, the portal was gone.

“Oh, that’s unexpected. That's okay, Ember. There is one path for now; let’s just follow it.”

The oppressive heat and desolate landscape seemed never-ending as I continued my journey through Tartarus. Suddenly, a flicker of movement caught my eye. I turned to see a small, impish figure darting between the rocks. It was slender and agile, with bat-like wings and a mischievous grin that revealed sharp, pointed teeth.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" the figure chortled, its voice a mix of curiosity and amusement. "A lost little lamb wandering into Tartarus?"

I tightened my grip on Ember and took a cautious step back. "Who are you?" I demanded, trying to keep my voice steady.

The creature's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Names are such fickle things, don't you think? But you can call me Lyra. I suppose you could say I'm... a guide of sorts. But not the kind you're used to."

Lyra flitted closer, her wings beating softly. "You see, I don't give away secrets for free. I prefer a bit of fun and a bit of play. But don't worry, little lamb, I'll help you—if you can keep up." She laughed, the sound echoing around the rocky expanse.

I frowned, unsure whether to trust this impish guide. "What do you want from me?"

Lyra's grin widened. "Simple. I want to see how far you will go to save your friend. And in return, I'll lead you through the twists and turns of Tartarus. But be warned, little lamb, my help comes with a price. You may find yourself in situations that require... creativity to escape."

I looked the creature over; who knew if they were lying? I frowned. I shouldn’t have made deals with demons or other animals, but if this could have led me to Kurai, perhaps we could have agreed.

With a playful wink, Lyra hovered just out of reach. "So, do we have a deal?"

I hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Deal. But no tricks that could put us in serious danger."

"Oh, I wouldn't dream of it," Lyra said, her grin never wavering. "Now, let's get moving. Tartarus waits for no one."

With Lyra leading the way, I felt apprehension and curiosity. This mischievous guide might not be trustworthy, but I had no choice. As we ventured deeper into the infernal landscape, I kept a wary eye on Lyra, ready for whatever tricks she might have.

“So, little Lamb,” Lyra called back over. “What brings you to such a forsaken place? We haven’t seen a mortal here in a very long time. Surely, you aren’t here just for a scroll - and it looks like you’ve some magic. But I don’t sense a strong magic from you. Rather, a weak one.”

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“I um…. I just need to save my friend; he was taken by someone or something.” I said sheepishly as I avoided the little demon’s gaze.

“Ah, a brave little lamb! You are mortal, though; why are you risking your mortal life for a demon in Hell?” Lyra questioned, floating closer and examining me with skepticism and intrigue.

“He’s important to me,” I replied, my voice firm.

“Oooooh, a he? Are you interested in this demon? A mortal like you, interested in a demon? Quite an interesting mix!” Lyra’s eyes gleamed with amusement.

I felt my cheeks flush slightly but stood my ground. “He’s my friend, and I owe it to him to try and save him. Besides, he doesn’t deserve to be trapped here.”

Lyra’s expression softened just a bit, though her playful demeanor remained. “You mortals and your emotions. Always so complicated. Well, I suppose it makes things more entertaining for me.”

“Just help me find him,” I said, trying to keep the frustration out of my voice. “That’s all I ask.”

“Very well, little lamb,” Lyra said, floating ahead. “But remember, Tartarus is full of surprises, and not all are pleasant.”

"How noble," Lyra said with a smirk, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "But how do you plan to accomplish that with such weak magic? Do you even know what you're up against?"

"I'll do whatever it takes," I said firmly, ignoring her taunts. "I'm not afraid."

Lyra laughed, the sound echoing eerily in the barren landscape. "We'll see about that, little lamb. Tartarus has a way of revealing one's true nature. But for now, let's play a little game."

Before I could respond, Lyra darted ahead, disappearing behind a large boulder. I hurried to catch up, facing three identical paths, each leading in a different direction.

"Choose wisely, little lamb," Lyra echoed around me, though I couldn't see her. "One path leads to your friend, another to certain doom, and the third... well, let's just say it's a surprise."

I hesitated, trying to make sense of the situation. Each path looked equally treacherous, and there needed to be a clear indication of which one to take.

"Tick-tock," Lyra's voice teased. "Time's running out. Make your choice."

Ember restlessly jumped out of my arms and landed on the ground with a thud. The little fox cub ran ahead to one of the paths and yipped at me. It stared at me and pointed to the path then. “Ok, that one it is, then.”

Suddenly, the ground beneath me gave way, and I slid down a steep, rocky slope. I struggled to find something to hold onto, but the momentum was too strong. As I was about to lose hope, strong hands grabbed me and pulled me to safety.

"Well, well, looks like you chose the surprise," Lyra said, her grin wider than before. "I must say, I'm impressed. Most people would have fallen to their doom."

I glared at her, panting from the ordeal. "What was the point of that?"

"It's just a little test," Lyra said with a shrug. I must see if you have the wits and courage to survive Tartarus. You passed... for now."

Catching my breath, I looked around to find Ember sitting calmly, wagging his tail as if he knew all along. 'Good job, Ember,' I said, giving the fox cub a grateful pat.

Lyra floated ahead, her mischievous smile never fading. 'Come on, little lamb. Your friend awaits, but the trials are far from over.'

Determined, I followed her, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. With Lyra's guidance, Ember's instincts, and my unwavering resolve, I knew I had a chance to rescue Kurai and bring him back from the depths of Tartarus."

We continued down the path, the air growing thicker and the atmosphere more oppressive with every step. The tunnel walls seemed to close in, and the dim light barely penetrated the darkness ahead. I could hear distant, eerie sounds echoing through the passage, making it hard to tell what lay ahead.

Lyra's voice cut through the silence. "Tartarus is a place of torment and despair, little lamb. Each step brings you closer to your friend and deeper into danger."

I nodded, my resolve unwavering. "I can’t give up, I need to find Kurai.”

"Kurai? Did you… say Kurai?" Lyra questioned, her voice trembling with fear and astonishment...

"Yes, Kurai is my friend," I confirmed, eyes locked onto hers. "I have to find him and bring him back."

Lyra's expression shifted dramatically, her face paling as she stepped back. "Kurai... the Nogitsune? The trickster spirit? You... you must be mistaken. You’re a mortal searching for a Demon Spirit such as a Nogitsune?”

“He’s not a trickster,” I said quickly to defend him. “He’s a guardian, my guardian.”

Lyra's fear was palpable, and she vigorously shook her head. "You don’t understand, little lamb. Nogitsune is powerful and dangerous. They thrive on chaos and deception. If he's here, in Tartarus, it’s for a reason. You should forget about him."

“I can’t give up, Kurai,” I told her, frowning.

“Forget it, kid,” The demon bat growled.

"I can't!" I exclaimed, my voice echoing through the dark tunnel. "Kurai is important to me, and I can't leave him here. I have to find him!"

Lyra's eyes filled with a mix of pity and apprehension. "You’re determined but don’t know what you're up against. The Heart of Shadows is where the strongest and most dangerous souls are tested. If Kurai is there, he might be beyond saving.”

“I don’t care, Lyra,” I told her, my resolve hardening. “I will find him.”

Lyra's expression hardened. "You don’t understand. The true beast behind Kurai... it’s not something you can fight or save. He’s a Nogitsune, a creature of pure chaos and darkness. If you try to find him, you might not come back."

"I don’t believe that," I replied, my voice steady. "Kurai has always protected me. I know there's good in him, and I won’t give up on him."

“I can’t be responsible for a stupid mortal,” the creature growled. “You’re no match for what you’ll come across, Little Lamb. You will be devoured, just as a sheep is by a wolf.” With that, the bat creature fluttered upwards and disappeared into the flames of Tartarus.

“I’m not sure what she was on about,” I sighed, returning to the little fox cub sitting before a rock. “We’ll find Kurai together,” I said, patting the head of my familiar. My connection with Kurai was strong here in Tartarus - even if I didn’t know where I was.

I paused, sat down on one of the rocks nearby, and pulled out the grimoire I was given. Perhaps there was some kind of tracking spell?

Ember came up to me and pawed at my leg, nudging me.

“Hold on, Ember,” I dismissed it.

Flipping through the ancient pages, I searched for a spell that could help me locate Kurai. The grimoire was filled with spells of protection, conjuration, and enchantment, but I needed something specific. My fingers traced over the ornate illustrations and arcane symbols, hoping to find the answer.

Ember nudged me again, more insistently this time. I glanced down at my familiar, who looked at me pleadingly.

“What is it, Ember?” I asked, slightly exasperated.

Ember pawed at the grimoire, and I realized my familiar might be trying to tell me something. I followed Ember’s gaze to a page that seemed to glow faintly. The title read:

“Guidance of the Lost: A Spell to Find What You Seek”

"Thanks, Mom!" I cheered quietly.

My heart quickened. Was this it? I carefully read through the instructions. The spell required a personal item belonging to the one I sought and a focus on my energy and intent. I frowned as I looked into my bag. The only thing I had that was of Kurai’s was the Lotus. But it was a fire-resistant lotus that I could use here if needed. But this was important.

I glanced at Ember, who seemed to nod in encouragement. “Alright, let’s try this,” I said, determined.

I took a deep breath and gently pulled the fire-resistant Lotus from my bag. Holding it in my hands, I could feel a faint warmth, a reminder of Kurai's presence.

"Here goes nothing," I whispered, placing the Lotus on the ground before me. I closed my eyes and focused on Kurai, remembering his laughter, strength, and bond.

I began to chant the incantation from the grimoire, my voice steady and filled with intent:

“By the light of the moon and the shadows of the night,

Guide my path to the one out of sight.

Through the dark and through the flame,

Lead me to Kurai. Call him by name.”

As the words left my lips, the Lotus started to glow with an intense, fiery light. I could feel the magic working, the connection between Kurai and the Lotus strengthening the spell.

"Ember, I think it’s working!" I exclaimed, standing up. The fox cub yipped in agreement, ready to follow the newfound path.

With renewed determination, I followed the pull of the Lotus, feeling an invisible thread guiding me through the treacherous landscape of Tartarus. Ember trotted alongside me, his presence a comforting reminder that I was not alone in this journey.

No matter what dangers lay ahead, I was ready to face them. Kurai needed me, and I would not let anything stand in my way.

With the Lotus guiding me, I ventured deeper into the ominous depths of Tartarus. The landscape around me was a twisted nightmare, filled with jagged rocks and rivers of molten lava. The air was thick with the acrid smell of sulfur, and the sky above was a swirling maelstrom of dark clouds and flickering flames.

Tartarus was a place of eternal torment and despair, where the damned souls roamed in agony. The cries and wails of the tormented echoed through the air, a constant reminder of the suffering that pervaded this hellish realm. Shadows danced and twisted around me, their forms shifting and changing with every step I took.

As I navigated through this forsaken land, I couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. My senses were on high alert, and Ember's ears were perked up. His eyes were scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger.

Suddenly, a low growl rumbled through the air, sending shivers down my spine. I turned to see a massive figure emerging from the shadows. The creature was unlike anything I had ever seen before. It stood on two powerful legs, its body covered in thick, obsidian scales that glinted in the fiery light. Its eyes burned with an intense, malevolent glow, and its claws were as sharp as the jagged rocks that littered the ground.

“Who dares trespass in the depths of Tartarus?” The fiend rumbled, its voice like the grinding of a stone.

I took a step back, my heart pounding in my chest. Ember stood his ground, his hackles raised and a fierce determination in his eyes.

"We seek someone dear to us," I said, my voice steady despite the fear coursing through me. "We mean no harm."

“You are… But a mortal? How did you get here?” the fiend demanded, giving us a cold glare as it crawled towards us. “Not a lost soul—but…” The creature’s nostrils flared as it caught a scent of air. “... A Reaper?”

My heart skipped a beat at the mention of the word "Reaper." The realization had only recently dawned on me, and I still accepted this newfound identity.

The fiend's eyes narrowed, and it studied me with suspicion and curiosity. “Reapers don’t come to Tartarus—this is unheard of. Your presence here disrupts the natural order,” the beast hissed.

“I understand - but this is important, please!” I begged up to him.

“You are not like The Lady in Red. You are weak, fragile, and impatient,” The beast growled, approaching me. “You are but a child.”

“I’m not a child!” I snapped back, giving him a cold glare. “I just want to get Kurai back,” I said, my voice dropping quietly.

The fiend let out a low growl, its eyes flickering with uncertainty. "Kurai... That name is unfamiliar to me. But regardless, you cannot pass without proving your worth."

I nodded, understanding that there was no other way. "What must I do to prove myself?"

The fiend grinned, revealing its rows of sharp teeth. "You must face me in combat. Only by defeating me will you earn the right to continue your journey."

“FIGHT!!” I exclaimed. You want me to fight an all-powerful, fiery beast of Tartarus?! I don’t even know what Tartarus means!”

“That’s not my problem - you chose to venture here - despite the warnings of Lyra.”

“Fine,” I murmured quietly. “I’ll do anything to find Kurai.”

“Prepare yourself, Reaper. This will be a fight unlike any you’ve faced before.”

I tightened my grip on the Lotus, feeling its warmth and power flow through me. With Ember by my side, I knew we could overcome this formidable guardian. “Are you sure there’s no other way?” I asked the guardian in hopes.

“Silence,” It snarled at me.

This was it. This is how I find Kurai.