Chapter Twenty-Nine

Noxaris

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I

I wasn’t sure how I would go about it, but perhaps I could go over the essential magic that Astaroth went over with me—that's not just my shadow fiend. I tried to think relatively quickly about what we went over.

"Can I get, like, 5 minutes to study?" I questioned the beast.

"...I am a beast in Tartarus, and you want to study?" the beast questioned me.

"Yeah. Please?" I said, hoping for a bit of grace.

The beast seemed to be taken aback by my request, pausing momentarily. This gave me enough time to recall some of the spells Astaroth had taught me. I took a deep breath, focusing on the warmth of the Lotus in my hand. I could feel the faint pulse of magic, a reminder of the power I now possessed. "I can do this," I whispered to myself.

The fiend roared and swung its spiked club with terrifying force. I dodged to the side, barely evading the strike. "Ember, distract it!" I called out.

Ember darted forward, yipping and snapping at the fiend's ankles. The beast snarled, momentarily diverted by the fox cub's agile movements.

Seizing the opportunity, I concentrated on the shadows around me. I extended my hand, feeling the dark energy flow through my fingers. "Shadow Bind!" I cried out.

Tendrils of shadow surged from the ground, wrapping around the fiend's legs and momentarily halting its advance. The fiend struggled, tearing at the shadows with its immense strength. I could feel the dark magic coursing through me, trying to get its power out. Though I was new, whatever happened to get this unlocked was incredible. I could only wonder if I had this magic in me the entire time. I had no idea how strong my magic was, but I was sure it was something to get him distracted. At least long enough to get away.

I knew I had to act quickly. Focusing on the Lotus, I could feel its warmth intensify. “Dark Flame!” I shouted, channeling the energy into a burst of dark fire toward the fiend.

But as soon as I shot my hand at the beast, nothing came out, just a little ‘puff’ of smoke.

“Ehh,” I said, embarrassed.

The fiend paused momentarily as if confused by my feeble attempt. Ember continued to dart around the fiend, yipping and snapping at its heels to keep it distracted.

I took a deep breath, trying to push aside the embarrassment and focus again. I could feel the power within me, even if it was still raw and unrefined. "Come on, you've got this," I muttered.

The beast lifted one of its hooves, looking to stomp on me. I watched the foot shadow over me before quickly yelping and running out of the way as best I could. When its hooves hit the ground, the earth shook, and it let out an annoyed roar.

Just as I thought I had evaded its attack, the fiend swung its massive club with unexpected speed. The club connected with my side, sending me flying through the air. I landed hard on the ground, pain radiating through my body. I gasped for breath, struggling to get up. Blood trickled from a deep gash on my side, and I knew I was in serious trouble.

“Shit, what the hell?!” I gasped as I felt the pain sear through me. Right there where that mark was. “Damnt!” The pain ran through my body, ripping me apart. “Ember, I need to get out of here,” I shouted to the little fox cub. The fiend looked at me, its purple head tilted, but it nodded. I clutched the lotus from Kurai’s room close to me as I watched the little cub bark and distract the fiend, biting it here and there.

“You’re not going anywhere today, Mortal,” the beast growled through the area, his voice echoing. “You’re worthless; you’re pathetic. You’re weak - and you call yourself a Reaper.” It taunted me, its attention completely ignoring the little fox cub and turning to me.

I stared up at the colossal beast, its eyes burning into mine. The beast again went after me, its club going high in the air. Fear covered my body as I put my hands before me, looking away from the club about to strike. However, as I did so, something blue and vital surrounded my body. “What’s this?!” I squealed, scared for my life.

Snow, we don’t have much time. You need to listen and listen carefully. A voice sounded in my head as the blue shield stayed strong.

The beast glared down at me. “What is this?!” He snarled.

Don’t talk, just listen. You took the pendant from my room.

ENOXON?!

Please be quiet. Grab the pendant. I don’t have much time to talk to you while you’re disobeying orders. This will be my own communication. Grab the pendant now. His voice was strong in my head. I’m not sure how he was doing it, but he did.

I fumbled to take the backpack off as the blue shield around me rumbled while the beast attempted to continue striking it. I could grab the pendant; its aura is coming off strong.

I don’t want you asking questions—just trust me. I need you to focus on that pendant. When your mindset is on that pendant, I want you to look that beast in the eye and say, ‘Protindo Intimidactum.’

I didn’t flinch. Instead, I tightened my grip on the pendant and focused on it, feeling its energy pulse. The power surged, mingling with the energy of the lotus. “Protindo Intimidactum,” I called out, my voice steady and robust.

In an instant, a bolt of shadowy energy formed between my hands. It was an impure, ivory intertwining duo of rays swirling together in a mesmerizing dance. The fiend’s eyes widened in shock as the bolt grew in intensity.

With a swift motion, I directed the bolt toward the fiend. The shadowy energy shot forward, striking the beast with incredible force. The impact sent the fiend reeling back, a howl of pain escaping its lips as the dark energy enveloped it. The shadowy bolt seemed to sap the fiend's strength, its movements growing sluggish and weak.

As the spell left my hands, I felt a strange heaviness. It was as if a weight was pressing down on my entire body, making it hard to move and breathe. The toll of using black magic, especially as a brand-new magic user, hit me like a wave. My limbs felt leaden, and a profound fatigue threatened to overwhelm me.

Seeing the spell's effect, I felt a surge of confidence despite the heaviness. “You may be strong, but I’m not as weak as you think,” I said, my voice carrying across the battlefield.

The fiend struggled but regained its footing, shaking off some of the shadowy energy that clung to it. Its eyes now burned with even greater fury. "You dare use such magic against me?" it roared, taking a menacing step forward.

A sense of dread washed over me as I realized the fiend was not defeated. It was weakened but far from vanquished. With the heaviness from the spell still weighing me down, I knew I couldn't face it head-on anymore. I needed a new plan. I had to get out of there.

You can’t win this Snow. The next thing I want you to say is, ‘Umbra Velatus,’ then run. G-go-go pa-ast -h-e -b—eas-t.

He was cutting out. His connection must be dropping.

H-ho-hold pen-pen-dant.

I heard Enoxon’s voice, “Hold the pendant,” and I did that. As instructed, I held the pendant again and said, “Umbra Velatus.” Immediately, everything around me went dark.

The world around me seemed to blur as the shadows concealed my presence. The magical cloak, Umbra Velatus, made me invisible and protected me from further harm. I moved as quietly as possible, slipping past the fiend while it was preoccupied with Ember. My heart pounded, but I knew I had to stay calm. I just needed to get around this being.

Sensing my plan, Ember gave one last fierce yip before darting off in the opposite direction, drawing the fiend away from me. I took this chance to move further into the shadows, making my escape.

I could hear the fiend's frustrated roars behind me, but I didn't look back. My only focus was getting away and finding a safe place to tend to my wounds. The pain in my side was intense, but I pushed through it, determined to survive.

Finally, I found a small alcove to hide and catch my breath. I leaned against the cold stone wall, clutching the Lotus tightly. "Thank you, Ember," I whispered, hoping he had also avoided the field.

I felt a sense of security with the Umbra Velatus still cloaking me. I knew I had a long journey ahead, but for now, I was safe. My breath was heavy, my body was heavy, and I’m sure I was bleeding. I didn’t even want to look down, as I felt the warmth seep through my hands as I grabbed the wound.

I leaned against the cold stone wall, clutching the lotus tightly. The pain in my side was intense, and I could feel the warm trickle of blood on my skin. Breathing heavily, I knew I couldn't stay here for long. I had to tend to my wounds and keep moving.

Reaching into my backpack, I pulled out a small vial of healing potion I had taken from Enoxon's room. The liquid inside glowed faintly, a sign of its potent magical properties. With a quick, determined motion, I uncorked the vial and drank the potion. Almost immediately, I felt a soothing warmth spread through my body, the pain in my side beginning to subside as the potion worked its magic. “Ah, Enoxon, thank you!” I whispered to myself.

The bleeding slowed, and I could feel my strength returning. Still cloaked by the Umbra Velatus, I gazed around the area. With rocky hills and lava surrounding me, I had no idea where to go or what to do. The lotus was worn out and would no longer be of use. How was I supposed to navigate this lava wasteland?

I sat there momentarily, staring at the red moon above me, feeling exhausted. This black magic took a toll on my body, and with the Umbra Velatus still shielding me, I was sure my magic was slowly draining—whatever I had left.

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I took a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts and strength. The red moon cast an eerie glow over the landscape, the rocky hills and rivers of lava creating a nightmarish scene. Despite the healing potion, the exhaustion from using black magic and maintaining the Umbra Velatus was overwhelming.

I couldn’t afford to waste any more time. I had to keep moving, even if I wasn’t sure where to go. The only way out of this wasteland was forward. Summoning whatever courage and energy I had left, I pushed myself to my feet, still clutching the now-useless lotus.

As I walked, I kept my senses sharp, constantly looking for any sign of danger or a potential path to safety. My mind raced with thoughts of Kurai and the journey ahead, but I forced myself to focus on the present.

One step at a time.

Tartarus seemed empty—full of lava. Where were all the souls that were damned to this realm? Why was there nothing but a single beast and a single imp-like creature? Curiosity sparked within me. It was a realm of hell, right? No one had explained Tartarus; they all kept saying it was "dangerous to travel."

"Tch," I muttered, letting the darkened shield around me disappear. This was so stupid of me," I groaned. I have no idea where I’m going or what I’m doing, and the worst part is that I barely know magic!"

Navigating through the bleak landscape of Tartarus, I stumbled upon what appeared to be the remnants of an ancient structure. The ruins were partially buried under layers of ash and rock, their once-grand architecture now crumbling and worn. Intrigued, I decided to explore further. “Perhaps I can find Kurai here?” I questioned myself quietly.

The grimoire hovered before me, its pages flipping on their own, revealing ancient texts and diagrams. The whispers grew more coherent, forming words and sentences that echoed inside and outside my mind.

"Seek the weapon... chosen one... destiny awaits..." the whispers intoned.

The grimoire settled on a specific page, and an image of the scythe appeared, glowing with the same eerie light as the symbols on the walls. It was clear now—the scythe was hidden within these ruins, and the grimoire was guiding me to it.

With renewed determination, I followed the grimoire's guidance. The path it illuminated led me through a series of hidden passages and ancient chambers, each more intricate and awe-inspiring than the last. The whispers urged me forward, and the grimoire's glow intensified as I approached my destination. “Hey! Where are we going?!” I called it.

Finally, I entered a grand chamber. A scythe lay in the center of the room, resting on an ornate pedestal. The weapon was as magnificent as the image in the grimoire, its blade shimmering with a dark, otherworldly light. Intricate carvings adorned the handle, and the air seemed powerful.

My eyes widened as the grimoire approached the blades, and the scythe glowed slightly red. “What is this?” I questioned as I approached it.

The blade’s red hue began to shift colors from the red to a purple color. I examined the weapon, my eyes wide with curiosity. Why has my mother’s grimoire brought me here?

Compelled by a force I couldn't explain, I wrapped my fingers around the extraordinary, metallic handle. The moment my skin made contact, a searing pain shot up my arm, causing me to gasp and nearly drop the scythe. It felt as though a thousand needles were piercing my flesh, burrowing deep into my bones. I clenched my teeth, fighting the urge to scream, and tightened my grip.

The pain intensified, spreading through my entire body like wildfire. I could feel the scythe's power coursing through my veins, merging with my essence. My vision blurred, and I staggered, barely able to keep myself upright. Just when I thought I could endure no more, the pain began to subside, replaced by a strange warmth.

What is this? A voice echoed in my ears. A mortal has come to claim me? How amusing.

“Ho-how are you-”

You must be either incredibly brave or highly foolish, the voice continued, its tone dark and sarcastic. Which is it?

I clenched my teeth, fighting the urge to respond. The warmth spread from my fingertips, soothing the burning agony that had consumed me moments before. It was as if the scythe was healing me, binding itself to me intimately and permanently.

Don't get too comfortable the voice sneered. This little bonding process will be much more painful before it gets better.

I could sense its power and consciousness intertwining with mine. The last remnants of pain faded away, replaced by a dark presence that seemed to linger beneath the surface.

Ah, finally. I was starting to get bored in there, the voice continued, dripping with sarcasm. You have no idea what you've gotten yourself into, do you?

I took a deep breath as the pain vanished, but I felt something powerful surging through me. My gaze drifted downward, and to my horror, I saw an angry, red eye glaring back at me from the scythe.

The scythe clattered to the floor, but the voice echoed in my mind. Oh, come on. Is that how you should treat your new companion?

I backed away, my heart racing. “What… What are you?” I questioned it.

The eye on the scythe rolled and gave me a cold glare. To my surprise, it began to glow red and float upwards, hovering a few feet before me. Its eye, as red as the blood moon above, bore into mine with an unsettling intensity.

I see you chose to stick around, The voice echoed in my mind, laced with sarcasm. Good choice.

I stood there, rooted to the spot I was in, unable to tear my gaze away from the floating scythe. I gazed it over curiously. “What do you want from me?” I asked, my voice wavering a bit.

The eye narrowed slightly. Want? It repeated. Oh, it’s not about what I want. It’s about what you need. And believe me, you’re going to need me. The scythe slowly floated over to me, circling me. How have you become so weak? It asked me as if it had seen me before.

“Why should I trust you?”

A chuckle sounded in my head. Trust is irrelevant. Whether or not you like it, we’re bound, unfortunately. Our fates are intertwined—again, unfortunately. Its voice is full of disappointment.

I took a hesitant step forward, reaching out tentatively toward the hovering weapon. As my fingers brushed the handle, the red glow intensified, and a surge of energy coursed through me once more.

That’s it, the voice purred. Embrace the power. Together, we are unstoppable. At least I am. I’m not sure about you.

I clenched the handle tightly, feeling a mix of fear and exhilaration. The scythe felt like an extension of my body, its power thrumming in harmony with my heartbeat. Despite the entity's omnium presence, I couldn’t deny the thrill of wielding such a powerful artifact.

“Fine,” I said, my voice steadier. “But don’t think for a second that I trust you.”

The red eye glinted with amusement. Trust? Oh, this is going to be fun. Call me Noxaris, Reaper. Welcome to Tartarus. I hope you enjoy your stay here - because you'll be here for a while.

When it said that, I dropped my shoulders, feeling slightly upset. "How do you know I'm a Reaper?" I asked.

I'm a literal demon-scythe, it replied with a hint of impatience. I can sense your aura. Reapers and I go way back.

I took a deep breath, trying to process this new information. "So, what now? Do we have some sort of pact?"

Noxaris's eye flickered with a darker shade of red. You could say that. As long as you wield me, our powers are intertwined. Unfortunately, your mission is now my mission. I was having such a sound slumber.

“Is my mission now yours?” I repeated, feeling a bit hopeful now. I don’t know much about Tartarus, but a friend of mine is here.”

Kurai, huh? The nogitsune finally got his tails handed to him on a silver platter. It doesn’t surprise me. Noxaris responded, its tone dripping with sarcasm.

“How did you know that?”

It gave me a sideways look, and its red eye rolled again. Again, demon scythe, scythe to the stupid reaper.

“I’m not stupid!”

You’re weak. Whatever - that can change. Tell me your name, where you’re from, and who you descend from.

“Oh, so you know why I’m here in Tartarus, but you don’t know who I am,” I grumbled to the scythe.

I will cut your hair off. It threatened me.

My purple eyes were wide from listening to his threat. “Excuse me?!” I snapped. How dare you! I own you!”

No, I own you. I am not a pet or something a mortal typically handles. Why I am in the hands of a mortal, I don’t know. So again, I ask you, who are you, and who do you descend from?

“I um…” I frowned, looking away from its red eyes. “They just call her The Lady in Red, I don’t know her name.”

The scythe’s eye grew as wide as mine when I said that. Are you the Lady in Red’s child?

“I am,” I told him as I felt the handle leave my hands.

That means she’s not coming back for me. Its voice sounded disappointed in my head. And yet, she had a mortal child?! How does this even happen!

The scythe's handle floated midair, hovering just out of my reach. I felt a strange mix of emotions—fear, curiosity, and an odd sense of connection to this demonic weapon.

"She must have her reasons," I said quietly, more to myself than to Noxaris. "But I need you. We need each other."

Perhaps. Noxaris conceded, but its tone remained cold. Don’t think for a moment that I am here to serve you. Our bond is one of necessity, not choice.

I took a hesitant step forward, reaching out for the handle. “I just want to find Kurai,” I said gently as I reached for the base of the scythe, gripping it tightly. I was still scared. “Please, help me find him,” I begged the scythe. “I want to go home - I want to leave Tartarus.”

The scythe's aura changed slightly, but it scoffed with disgust. You are a REAPER; start acting like it. I swear, if you cry at every single thing, this is not going to work out!

I frowned but nodded. The demonic scythe was correct about that, and I felt awful but had nothing to say to it.

You… Ugh, this is going to be a long journey. Mortal Child, tell me your name.

“My name is Snow,” I replied, avoiding his gaze.

Snow. The Lady in Red named her child Snow. Ok. Snow. This is what we are going to do. Quick rundown, I used to belong to her… One day, she was brought here to Tartarus, and that was that. We were separated rather quickly after entering the realm. His voice quickened as he explained his story, and finally, his red gaze locked on mine. I’ve been serving Reapers since I was created so many years ago. You are by far the worst one I’ve come across. You are weak, It said, giving me a nudge with its blade. You are not of Reaper material.

I couldn’t help but feel heartbroken when he said that. “I could be. I guided a soul home.”

Oooh, a soul home! It mocked me, wagging the blade back and forth as if he were shaking his head.

“I just found out I was a Reaper, okay?!” I snapped at it, the sadness quickly turning into anger as he mocked me. “I was born into this stupid underworld but given up to some sorcerers who raised me as a human! A HUMAN.” My voice ruptured the surroundings. “I didn’t even know demons existed until I was forced into the position of being chased by one and marked for death! If you think I asked for any of this, you’re wrong! I never … I never wanted this. I didn’t… I didn’t,” My anger forced the tears again. I was so overwhelmed, my side hurt like a bitch, and I was so tired of being called weak and a child!

And now, I was screaming at a weapon!!!

“I can’t…” I muttered, pulling my knees into my body as I hugged them.

A sigh filled my head as I felt the scythe force itself into my hand, its warmth reverberating. Look, Snow. It started. I’ve seen a lot in my last million years alive. Trust me when I say this. You’re not of Reaper Material. . . But I feel potential. It stated to me. I’m sure you’ve met our Spirit Walkers, Yushin and Yuna? Those were the last companions of The Lady in Red.

I tilted my head sideways as it spoke to me. “I have met them,” I whispered, resting my head on my knees.

Fantastic—you’re already on your way. I am here to help you with soul collection. I have power, but my main goal is to help you guide. And right now, you need the guidance—a lot. If you promise not to cry like a baby while yielding to me, I’ll help you find your ‘precious’ Kurai.

“Thank you,” I whispered, a faint smile.

Disgusting. It growled at me. Whatever, I will be taking the lead. But be warned - Tartarus is full of dangers even the strongest Reaper, your mother, couldn’t face. You need to listen carefully if you wish to survive.

“Please,” I begged Noxaris.

And stop being so damned nice. Reapers are not supposed to be nice.