The day to begin the banquet had arrived and the week-long festivities in the city state of Cruxbel began in full swing. All kinds of people, no matter what the realm, gained the opportunity to visit this bustling city with all kinds of hot spots.
Even people from the middle realm were allowed to visit this city state located in the higher realm, but each person from the middle realm had to be marked with a spell so that they would return to the middle realm after the banquet week ended. The guards of Cruxbel were very thorough to make sure no one from the middle realm would sneak in without the mark and later linger in the higher realm.
Throughout the week, there would be many attempts from all walks of life to find a way to linger in the higher realm, be it bribery, anti magic items, political jargon, invisibility spells and the works.
But in the Cruxbel castle, all kinds of important people were going to greet the ruler of the city, Mercy. And besides her stood Lud. A long line of people were waiting for Mercy and him to greet them, and there were some familiar faces as well.
To test the waters, Mercy managed the line so that people from the lower realm would be greeted first, then people from the middle realm and lastly people from the higher realm. That was the plan, but some gods would pop up here and there on the line, and no native from Lutah would dare to argue with someone claiming to be a god.
The first guest that Mercy and Lud greeted was none other than Tiara, Roman and their daughter Crown. Tiara said to Lud "You really made it big. Never expected a human to become the first demigod."
Lud replied "It wasn't on my to do list, but it sort of just happened."
Tiara said "Might try to become one myself. If it is okay with the host of this party."
Mercy replied "While I could do it easily as I now have a grasp of what a demigod can be, I wouldn't recommend doing so after just knowing you for one brief moment."
Crown jumps in and says "But you did so with uncle here."
Roman gets a worried look on his face and Mercy laughs a little before she says "While it is true, I had few people to vouch for him and… he was short on time."
Roman says "I'm sorry for her comment. She has a… little bit of a character. From her mother likely."
Crown asks "Where else would I have gotten it from? Like you, I'm a tulpa, but I was born from mommy's love for you. Oh, maybe I have some characteristics from you as well, daddy!"
Roman says "Please, while I'm not entirely on board with you calling me that, please call me father and Tiara your mother if you have to."
Crown frowns and says "But mommy is mommy and daddy is daddy."
Roman says "Still…"
Mercy smiles and says "No need to worry, Mr. Culling. I'm sure there will be many people delighted to hear young Crown's chatter during this party."
Tiara smiles back and says "Right?! This is gonna be such a bore since people will try to suck on people higher than them sooner or later."
Then Crown comments "But those scoundrels from the middle realm might try something funny from us from the lower realm."
Mercy says "Do not worry young Crown. While there might be rotten people from the higher realm as well visiting, I'll assure you that most have some character to make sure the people of the lower realm don't get isolated during this grand banquet."
Crown gives a childish smile to Mercy and says "If aunty says so."
Tiara pats little Crown's head and says to Mercy "But we should get going. Can't chat too long when others are waiting in line. See ya later Faust."
And with that, the Culling family went further in.
At some point, a tall muscular man with a regular sized woman steps in front of Mercy and Lud. The man introduces himself "Greeting Ms. Mercy and Mr. Ilumnos. It is an honor to get this invitation. My name is Zaron, the master of the adventurers guild down in the lower realm and this is Pinja Lowletr, The headmaster of Ronliet Academy and my wife."
Pinja makes an elegant curtsy and Zaron shakes both Mercy's and Lud's hands. The power within those handshakes were like a test of strength for Lud while for Mercy, Zaron did a regular handshake.
Mercy says "It is a pleasure to see you two as well. It has been a while since I've met a descendant of titans.
Zaron laughs a bit and says "Oh please, my blood is only a fourth of that of a giant and the rest is human. Calling me a descendant of titans is a bit exaggerated."
Pinja says "Well giants are the descendants of titans, so there is no falsehood in lady Mercy's words."
Zaron says "Still. It makes me sound much grander than I am."
Pinja pinches Zaron and says "Again with your modesty. You are the master of adventurers guild for Atkoosa's sake. But we should get going and not make others wait so long."
Pinja drags Zaron away as she scolds him. She noticed how Zaron tested Lud's strength and found that rude behaviour.
Then a very peculiar person comes with his posse. A man with barely a shirt on and a pair of broken shackles around his arms, legs and neck. He has long black messy hair and eyes that are pure black, kind of like Tifa sometimes. There are glowing red circles where the color of the eyes should be and he has sharp teeth.
The man says "Greetings my new brother in arms! It is nice to see that a god-like being has been born and one that can just chill down here with the rest of mortals."
The man shakes Lud's hand vigorously and another man with grey hair says "Don't bother the young one too much, brother. At least introduce yourself first."
The man shaking Lud's hand lets go and says "Right right. We are supposed to be on our best behaviour during this banquet week or whatever. My name is Perkele by the way. The grey haired guy with tattered grey robes is Fein and the blood red haired lady is Lovana."
Fein nods and Lovana says "It is SO nice to see a demigod to finally be born after all this time. I'm sure even Ötä would… well probably not, there is a reason why she didn't show up today. And a WEDDING in the future is something to be excited about! I hope that we'll get an invitation. Haha, but who am I kidding, we aren't exactly welcomed in the holy city."
Mercy says "I see that you have indeed come. When Lud asked the gods to bring alcohol that can make even gods drunk from Perkele, I knew that at least one of you would show up."
Perkele laughs "HAHAHA! Right?! Why wouldn't I come?! A celebration for my new brother in arms is a once in a lifetime experience! Well that is the saying, not that it fits us gods exactly, but you get the point."
Mercy says "While we appreciate you all coming here, please, do not cause too big of a ruckus."
Fein says "I'll make sure that no one will remember it if it comes to that."
Mercy smiles in a little annoyed way and says "Please make sure that it doesn't need to come to that."
Lovana reassures Mercy "Oh don't worry. I'll keep an eye on these two. In the first place, I'm sure the other gods will keep an eye on all three of us in the first place."
Mercy says "You are right. I believe they will."
Then Perkele walts in with a cheery attitude and says "Don't worry too much bloodsucker. I don't want to ruin the big day of my brother in arms."
Mercy says to Perkele as he and his posse go further inside "You better, or you'll face the consequences."
Perkele just waves with the back of his hand as he goes.
Lud gets close to Mercy's ear and comments "He wasn't wearing any pants."
To which Mercy replies "I know."
Lud asks "Are we going to just let it hang out there? There are kids around."
Mercy answers "He will put something to cover it eventually. It isn't good to rush Perkele."
Lud asks "But aren't we as hosts responsible for this kind of thing?"
Mercy says "While he can't do anything to harm me, annoy him enough and he'll cause harm to others."
Lud asks "Are you sure it is safe to let him in?"
Mercy answers "He will behave. Just barely."
Some of the guests that came after Perkele and his crew had worried looks on their faces. Not all of them and one of the people who was keeping it cool was a young blue haired woman in an elegant dress. She made a curtsy and said to Mercy and Lud "Greeting. My name is Hui Loutros and I'm the current owner of the famous merchant group known as Ocean Gold. I am honored to have been granted this opportunity to come dine with all these great people."
Mercy says "So Ocean Gold is still around after all this time. I remember one of your predecessors visiting the previous banquet. What was his name again? Lloyd Engtrat?"
Hui says "Yes. I believe that it was him. Unfortunately, be it thanks to the abyss or Fein, records of those times have been mostly lost so you'll have to forgive me if I don't have many details of those times."
Mercy says "It is fine. It is all in the past now. Please, make yourself comfortable and dine with the rest of the guests."
Hui makes a curtsy once more and says "Gladly, your highness."
Then Hui takes a glance at Lud and her lips form a small smile. Lud didn't know if there was a special reason behind it or was it out of politeness, so he let it go.
Then a short girl with red and blue twintails comes with a powerful energy "Heya you two! How is it going?! It's me! Harlotte! God of chaos! Pleasure to meet you!"
Lud is a bit taken aback by this but Mercy just shakes Harlotte's hand casually and says "It has been a while Harlotte. Glad to see you made it to this event. I hope you have many fun memories in Cruxbel. Though I must say it like I did with Perkele and his crew, don't cause too much trouble during this event."
Harlotte gasps and says "What?! They are here already?! Then I better go and make sure I don't miss anything interesting… I mean, keep an eye on them."
Mercy smiles and says "Right. You do that. But Harlotte…"
Harlotte responds like a dog "What What?!"
Mercy says in a cold tone "Don't. Cause. Trouble."
Harlotte isn't taken aback even in the slightest and just zooms further into the party while saying "Right right! And goooo!"
Lud looks at Mercy and asks "Are you sure it is okay to let her in? Isn't she…"
Mercy reassures Lud "Don't worry. Me and Harlotte go way back. And no, she isn't the version of god of chaos that has tormented you. At least not yet."
Lud responds "If you say so."
Then someone who Lud didn't expect came to greet him and Mercy. A dwarf in elegant clothing. He introduced himself casually "My name is Marques Lodgrod and I own most of the mines in the Calpacata region."
Mercy greets Marques like usual "It is nice to see that the Lodgrod bloodline is still alive and kicking. Say, the mines in Eredling, how are they faring recently?"
Marques responds "The Principality Eredling was disbanded about a century ago, but I've heard that there are still some mines that have stood the test of time."
Mercy says "Is that so. Has there been any conflict with the distribution of all the minerals and the like?"
Marques says "It would take too much time to tell you the full story now, so I'll come and talk to you about those matters when you have time. If that is okay with you, that is."
Mercy smiles and says "I would love to hear more. Maybe we can chat about those matter during the banquet week. Keep in touch."
Marques responds "Absolutely. And also…"
Marques looks at Lud, which makes Lud a bit worried until Marques says "Glad to see it was a human who achieved divinity out of all the mortal races in Lutah. Keep up the good work, champ."
Lud nods and says "I will do my best to not disappoint."
Marques nods back and goes further into the party.
Lud comments "Didn't expect to see a dwarf from the lower realm."
Mercy whispers "There are few bloodlines from the middle realm that don't agree with their realm's superiority over the lower realm. Marques is just one of those few exceptions."
Lud says "So I shouldn't get my hopes up."
Mercy whispers "Let's wait and see."
Some greetings go by, and then there comes someone interesting. A tall man in full suit of heavy armour with a helmet on. He doesn't speak out loud, but uses magic to make letters that others can read.
He says "Greetings. Sorry about my attire but to be honest, I'm a very shy person. Please accept my most sincere apologies."
Mercy says after looking at the man for a moment "I completely understand. Your name was Ren Yiteck, right? I heard that you are an amazing adventurer known throughout the lower and higher realm. It is also our honor that you came here, but if at any point it feels like too much for you, please feel free to just inform one of the staff about your leave so that I won't get worried."
Ren writes "Thank you for your concern. I'll try my absolute best to make sure that I don't cause anyone else discomfort. Now if you'll excuse me."
After bowing to Mercy and Lud, Ren goes further into the party. Mercy just mutters "There are a lot of people with all kinds of circumstances."
Lud responds by saying "True that. I've seen plenty even in my relatively short life."
Mercy chuckles a bit and says "You say that, but in terms of human age, you were about in your middle ages."
Lud says "Yeah, but I don't think that is much compared to the people around me."
Mercy chuckles again and says "You were from a world solely ruled by humans so you shouldn't feel disheartened."
Then the next guest comes forth.
After a while, a black man in a fancy suit, a golden cape, lots of jewelry (rings, necklaces, piercings and earrings) and a big ball of cloth on top of his head comes forth. He says "Greetings. My name is Sahra, the god of sand and time. Unfortunately I'm in a hurry, so tell me if Perkele and his crew have come in yet."
Mercy says "I see. Well they are in as we speak and as far as I know, they haven't started anything yet."
Sahra says "Oh thanks heavens I'm on time. I looked into the future and saw them causing trouble, so I hurried up so fast that I barely had time to make my balyimn (a kind of turban in this world) properly. Now if you excuse me."
Sahra leaves Mercy and Lud as fast as he came. Hopefully he can prevent whatever he saw Perkele and the crew doing.
Lud asks Mercy "Shouldn't we have mentioned Perkele's lack of pants?"
Mercy answers "He'll find out soon and probably get Perkele to wear some after that confrontation. Thankfully not too many kids have shown up yet."
Then after a few guests, came a man, woman and a girl with asian features and clothing similar to asian culture on earth. All three of them bowed to Mercy and Lud and then introduced themselves.
The man went first "Greetings esteemed ones. We are the Yuinli family who rule the eastern islands in the lower realm, Rutemoryu. My name is Takeru Yuinli, the current emperor there, and these are my dear wife and daughter. Etiri Yuinli and Yukimi Yuinli.
Etiri and Yukimi bow and Etiri says "It is our honor to be here today in your presence. My time on the battlefield surely has not been in wane."
Mercy says "I smell a lot of blood on your shoulders, Ms. Yuinli. For what I heard, you are the rewered Maiden of Jyqbolos that has led many battles in the past, most of which were victorious."
Etiri says "You honor me with such praise. But I must correct you in case you have mistaken me for a battle maniac. The title I am most proud of is that of the Scion of Lovana."
Mercy puts her hand on her chin and thinks "I see. To become a scion of Lovana, you must be able to prove your loyalty with all three aspects of her. Beauty, Pain and Obsession."
Etiri smiles and says "And that I have indeed done."
Mercy smiles and says "I hope that your husband hasn't suffered too much from your devotion to Lovana."
Takeru intersects "I have come in terms with my dear wife's devotions. And while I do have to bear with some things every now and then, I do dearly love my dear wife Etiri."
Etiri responds with calm "Oh, dear husband. You are making me blush."
Takeru coughs a little and says "In any case. Thank you for the invitation. We will be heading further in if you'll excuse us."
Mercy responds "Sure. Just be sure to keep your wife in check once she finds who is also here."
Takeru looks a bit puzzled about Mercy's comment, but just chooses to nod and go further in.
Then after a few more guests, a snow white elf with an elegantly tailored robe comes forth with a human man with glasses. The snow white elf bows and introduces himself.
"It is a pleasure, Ms. Mercy." A blunt introduction.
Mercy responds casually as usual "It is great to see you again Arthur. How are things at the northern continent?"
Arthur responds "Cold as usual."
The man besides Arthur taps him a little and says "Arthur! Be more respectful! These are important people we are talking to!"
Arthur responds "Yes dear. I'm sorry dear." and then looks at Lud and says "My name is Arthur Qilpos, a snow elf. This is my husband, Ernest Qilpos, a human. We come from the northern continent in Irnlear called Northolth. I am the president of the company that holds the rights on the continent, effectively making me the ruler of Northolth."
Ernest then speaks "As Arthur said. I am Ernest Qilpos and I used to be his assistant before we got married. We have an adopted daughter, but she is too busy with her work to come with us, so you have to excuse her."
Arthur retorts "She takes after me and thinks that these kinds of events are a waste of time."
Ernest punches Arthur a little and says "You can't say that!"
Mercy laughs lightly and says "It is good that you have found love after all these years, Arthur. I wish I would have been there on the day of your marriage."
Arthur comments "No worries. Those things are effectively meaningless in the grand scheme of things."
Ernest keeps punching Arthur weakly as he says "Stop saying all these things! This is why people misunderstand you so often!"
Arthur keeps blabbering "I mean, when you see one marriage, you kind of seen them all. Sure some traditions are different, but it'll often end with Raks' or Meridiem's blessing."
Ernest hasn't stopped smacking Arthur and he shouts "Still, it is important for some people! People like me!"
Arthur casually takes a hold of Ernest's hands and says "I'm sorry dear. Will you forgive me if I do this?"
Ernest asks "Do what?" Before Arthur kisses him on the lips.
Ernest is taken aback by this and Arthur says to Mercy and Lud like nothing happened "Because dear says that weddings are important to some people, as much as it might be a bother, we'll be sure to attend your two's wedding. IF we get an invite."
Mercy says "Sure. I'll keep you updated."
Arthur nods and goes further into the party with Ernest in hand.
Lud comments to Mercy "First time I hear of a snow elf is one of the first times I see gay marriage in Lutah."
Mercy responds with "They are quite progressive in Northolth. As you might have guessed, they are heavily invested in technology. Kind of like how star and moon elves are."
Lud asks "Is there any other elven variant that I should know of?"
Mercy says "Well there are the spirit elves, but I haven't heard that any of them will be visiting."
Lud says "I see. Anything else?"
Mercy wonders for a moment "Anything else, you say? Well I've heard that one group of high elves once migrated to the lower realm and tried to commune with the abyss there. Rumors call them abyssal elves, but I haven't seen any proof of their existence."
Lud asks "Why are there so many variants of elves?"
Mercy dodges the question by saying "We can talk about this some other time. Let's greet the next guests."
Then after a while, an angel that likes to keep his eyes closed comes and greets himself humbly "Greetings… My name is… Samael, and… I'm just a… humble priest of an… orphanage."
Lud can sense some weird energy from the angel. Like he isn't fully there or that he is struggling with something.
Mercy says to Samael "Have you perhaps forgotten about me, my dear Samael?"
Samael is in deep thought for a moment until he blurts out "Ah, ah. Ah! Ah… I do… remember you… from somewhere… but where was it again… should I return to the… children in the… orphanage?"
Mercy says "It doesn't matter too much that you don't remember me. I'm just glad that you are still holding on. If it becomes too much for you, then…"
Samael goes and touches Lud's face for a bit. Lud stood still as Samael said "Ah… this face… familiar as well… somehow… why though? Who are you… young man?"
Lud introduces himself while Samael is touching his face "My name is Faust Ilumnos and I'm going to marry Mercy here, apparently."
Mercy responds "Apparently, huh?"
Samael says "Ah ah… I remember now… You were there… back then… were you though… but this event… is more important now… sorry Mercy… I have worried you again."
Mercy says "It is alright Samael. Feel free to go further in and enjoy the food and company there."
Samael smiles sweetly "Yippee… company… but the orphans." He walks towards the hall as he mutters to himself.
Lud comments "What a weird guy. Why was he invited."
Mercy says "Well… let's just hope that you won't have to find out anytime soon."
Lud asks "What is that supposed to mean?"
Mercy shrugs and they continue to greet the rest of the lower realm's guests.
As the moment to start greeting the guests from the middle realm, Mercy said to Lud "Now remember, you may act smug to people who view Elysium negatively, TO A POINT. Do you understand?"
Lud reaffirms Mercy "No worries. I wasn't planning on doing any of that if they didn't make it easy."
The first to come from the middle realm line was Li, Sarah and Sisu. As Lud waved at the three, Sarah just zoomed past him and Mercy without even sharing a glance.
Lud looks at Sarah who has almost gone out of view and wonders "What is that all about?"
Then Li mentions "Oh, I do wonder, my lord." As he grabs a hold of Lud's left shoulder. The look on Li's eyes is something Lud didn't expect to see today, and when Lud asks "What is this all about?" Li answers "Not only can you call yourself a partial GOD, but you also seem to have dismissed my daughter's feelings."
Lud is a bit taken aback by this and Li continues "To be honest with you, my lord, I am having VERY complicated feelings right now."
Mercy says to Li "You don't need to worry, god slayer. In the religion that we follow, polygamy is legal and I'm open to the idea of Lud having a second wife.."
Li stares a bit at Mercy, until he takes a deep breath and lets go of Lud's shoulder.
Then Li says """While I don't think that solves the core problem, that is something I'm glad to hear."
Lud asks "Wait wait wait. Are you suggesting that I marry Sarah as well?"
Li says "I'm not saying that it is necessary, but you have to understand, my lord, that my daughter holds very deep feelings towards you. Whether or not she wishes to pursue those feelings is not for me to decide, but I hope that you will answer her with your honest feelings as well."
Lud gulps and says "I'll try my best."
Li says "Good. Now that that has been settled."
Li bows down a bit, and so does Sisu, and Li says to Mercy "Greetings Mercy of Absolution. My name is Li Last and I am the guardian of the Tower of Mythril, also known as Turris Sepulcrorum. This is my apprentice, Sisu. She has a unique condition where she can only talk to one person at a time with her telepathy, so please excuse her if it seems rude."
Mercy nods and says "I see. Thank you for your visit today. And… Sisu, was it? I hope that we will be able to have a talk during this week considering your… circumstances."
Sisu responds to Mercy "I'll be sure to find you in an opportune time, Ms. Mercy."
Mercy nods and Li and Sisu are on their way.
After greeting a few minor nobles from the middle realm, a black skinned person wearing clothes and a wig that Mozart would wear appears while also rocking a pair of glasses that Ozzy Osbourne would wear.
The person bows in an elegant way, fitting of a noble, then pointing his finger and swaying it as if he was orchestrating the music that was playing further in the banquet hall.
The man seems delighted and soon he gives a thumbs up and says "Good job" and goes past Lud and Mercy to presumably listen to the music more carefully.
Lud asks Mercy "What was that all about?"
Mercy smiles and says "Oh don't worry about him. Copelius is a man of few words. Well, that is if he is not singing."
Lud makes a guess and says "Does he stay quiet because he is saving his voice for when he is singing? I heard singers do that sometimes."
Mercy replies "I also have heard of it and that might be the case. Granted, from what I've heard, he just doesn't care much about conversing with people the regular way and prefers to communicate with his music."
Lud asks "Doesn't that get complicated sometimes?"
Mercy shrugs and says "Who knows. I guess we'll see soon."
Then a very familiar face appears in front of Lud. Soramaja, with his presumed wife, comes and greets Mercy and Lud.
Soramaja says "Greetings, your excellency. We are honored to have been invited to a once in a lifetime event like this."
Mercy says "It is nice to see the representatives of the beastfolk. I heard that there was a civil war not so long ago. Has it been solved?"
Soramaja keeps bowing as he says "While some rebels may yet exist, it is nothing that my dear knights can't handle. The beastfolk are united people and our swords will always point at our sworn enemies."
As he finished saying that, Soramaja glared at Lud ever so slightly. Lud notices this and smiles awkwardly.
Soramaja raises his head and says "We will not keep the other quests waiting any longer. So if you'll excuse us, your excellency."
Mercy says "Glad to have you here as well. Please enjoy the festivities to your heart's content."
With a slight bow once more, Soramaja goes further into the party with his presumed wife. Of course, he would touch shoulders with Lud as he passed. His face was in an irritated state.
Then Edmund appears and he doesn't even pretend to act civil as he says "Greetings your excellency. It is a shame to hear that you are engaged to a human. I wish you all the happiness, but please reconsider if you start to talk about kids."
Mercy smiles "Oh you don't need to worry. If anything, he is the kind of man that I wouldn't necessarily mind having a child with."
Edmund says to Mercy "It is your loss, your excellency, but I won't stop you."
Then Edmund says to Lud "Too bad for you worm. Your little trick is causing your kin further suffering than what we had in mind."
Lud smiles as he thinks about all the materials Elysium has been gathering around the mountain unnoticed. He says to Edmund "Oh I don't mind. It isn't me that is making constant losses each month as you try to scavenge your old capital."
Edmund is about to burst in anger as Lud continues "In the first place, I have heard that getting human slaves has become difficult all around the middle realm recently. So how does it feel to make the criminals of the middle realm races lose their minds in sleep deprivation?"
Edmund is about to shout, but his wife grabs his shoulder and says "No Edmund. Not here."
Edmund clicks his tongue and passes Mercy and Lud to go into the party. Of course, not before uttering "This is not over." as he passes Lud.
Mercy says to Lud "You didn't have to go that far."
Lud says back "I didn't cause a scene, did I?"
Mercy just mutters in dissatisfaction "Still."
Lud and Mercy would greet all three demon countries rulers. Of which only one was pleasant, the other two were awkward.
Then two draconian women wearing veils on their heads appear. They greet Mercy and Lud and only one of them speaks. The voice of the speaker is a familiar one to Lud.
The speaker says "The queen of Rythcoth, Alisisius Sinnerreign and her humble speaker, greet you, Mercy of Absolution."
Mercy says "Greetings. I hope that you can act dignified when the representatives of dragons you so worship show up."
The speaker pauses for a moment, presumably to give the air that the fake queen is speaking to her, and then says "We will act with utmost dignity in front of our revered dragon lords. So says the queen."
Mercy nods and says "Glad to hear it. You may enter."
Both draconians bow and go further in.
Mercy whispers to Lud "As I expected, they would bring this 'queen' here."
Lud says "You catch on quickly. I would love to see the speaker's face when she sees Sisu."
Mercy replies "I couldn't agree more."
After some minor nobles were greeted, a young dark elf with a cloth covering her mouth appeared. Her eyes were beautiful emerald green and her hair fine and well taken care of. She says "Greetings from Rusteror, oh great ones. My name is Diane Eboncliff. The current matriarch of dark elves. Beside me stands a hero of Lodres, Lucina Lirel, who fiercely fought against the abyssal invasion that dreadful day." Her voice was tantalizing.
Mercy says "Greetings. It seems that the Eboncliffs are still kicking strong."
Diane laughs a bit and says "Surely you jest. I'm the last of my clan and I don't see anyone suitable to have kids with."
Mercy says "I see." then looks at Lud for a moment. Lud asks "What?"
Diane laughs and says "If everyone would consent, I would be happy to have a child with this man. Alas, we just met, so there is no rush."
Lud asks "Wait. You don't care that I was formerly human?"
Diane nods and says "Indeed. Though I do get where you are coming from. The human pet program is something that I have been eager to get rid of, but even with my influence, I couldn't do much. Luckily, when the head of Aquila guild came by that day, I took the opportunity and gave their people as much support as I could at that time. Few exchanges of paper here and there and the human pet program is almost completely abolished."
Mercy says "Almost, huh."
Diane says in a saddened tone "Yeah. While the Aquila guild has been helpful, the human pet program is still considered legal in Rusteror, though there is a push to abolish it from the country. Sadly, even if we manage to eradicate that from Rusteror, some other countries might not be so keen on doing so. And then there is the cultural aspect in all of this."
Mercy says "Indeed. This matter is not something that can be solved in a day. Tell you what, now that I'm awake, I can make the conditions of those so-called human pets much easier with my power if you send them our way. While I cannot fully grant them the ability to think like normal humans, I can certainly make it closer than what they are currently capable of."
Diane looks happy as she says "Really. Oh thank the gods. I was getting so worried about their current state that I even have been losing sleep over it."
Mercy says "We can discuss the details as the week goes by. Now feel free to go further in and enjoy the festivities here."
Diane bows down a little while he thanks Mercy as she goes further into the party with Lucina.
Lud asks "Something feels off about her."
Mercy says "I can get why you'd say that since most people in the middle realm you've seen see humans as something of an eyesore. But rest assured, as far as I can tell, she wasn't lying about anything."
Lud replies as he tries to process a possibility of a good middle realm person existing "I see. I'll… keep what you said in mind."
Some time later, Lud would see the elf king and queen from Hearth. The king greets Mercy and Lud first "Greetings, your highness. It is our honor to be invited to the magnificent higher realm. My name is Moriamas Highgreen and this is my wife, Allmiere Highgreen."
Mercy replies "It is great to see that the Highgreens are still up there. I hope that you two will have a pleasant stay in Cruxbel."
Moriamas replies back in a calm "As per your wishes, we will make sure to enjoy our stay to our hearts content. Letting it go that there are some eyesores around shall be but a second nature during our stay here."
Mercy says "I hope that you will keep your word on that. Every guest is equal here."
Moriamas says "As the great Absolution wishes."
With that, the two elf rulers go further in.
Some greetings later, Ao and Altair come forth to greet the hosts. Ao starts with "Greetings. I have come here on behalf of the stars."
Before Mercy could reply, Altair comments "She just wanted to come as soon as she could to see if Maumar would come."
Ao gets a little flustered after hearing that and she stutters a bit "I-I-I do no such thing! I just. I-I came accompanying my most esteemed believer."
Ao whispers to Altair "Why do you have to say such embarrassing things."
Altair says, not caring if Mercy or Lud hears "But it is obvious that you would come because of that. Not that it would be a mystery to anyone who knows even little about you."
Ao says "Q-Quiet, you!"
Mercy says "Well it is our pleasure to have you two here. May the constellations favor you in your endeavours, god of stars."
Ao sighs and says "That won't really mean anything to me, but I appreciate the sentiment."
Soon after Ao and Altair go in, a floating man grey elf appears in front of them. He has long dark grey hair that waves around and bluish grey eyes.
Mercy just says to the elf "It is nice to see you Kuukun. Please don't feel free to go at your own pace."
Kuukun nods and floats by.
Lud asks "Who was that?"
Mercy explains "That is the god of the moons Kuukun. He is the silent type, but loves company."
Lud says "Isn't he the guy who was part of creating the star elves and moon elves?"
Mercy says "Yes. Though it is quite fitting that he came almost right after Ao showed up."
Lud comments "I thought that the two hated each other or something."
Mercy says "For what I hear, they do not get along with each other that often, but they almost always come after the other shows up. You'd think that it is on purpose, but it is not."
Lud says without thinking "Weird dynamic."
Mercy comments "I have seen weirder."
At some point Tifa and Toki just walk past Mercy and Lud. They greeted Mercy and Lud, but didn't want to chat at the moment. Lud commented "At least they said hi."
Then an "angel" comes and greets Mercy with a bow. "Greetings, Mercy of Absolution. My name is Lotus Bloom and I am the actual guild master of the adventurers guild in the middle realm. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Mercy responds with a kind smile "It is great to see you as well. I assume you and Faust know each other?"
Lotus answers with a calm "No." Then she looks at Lud with disdain and says "I was in contact with one of the real rulers of Elysium and was rejected to open a guild branch there. I do not believe that this human is fit to rule such a place."
Lud thinks "Well fuck you too." But says "I heard from Li that you have made requests and he even asked my opinion of it at times. At first I was going to approve the opening of the adventurers guild branch in Elysium, but when I heard Li's opinion about it, I had to agree with what he said."
Lotus closes her eyes for a moment, then raises her head and says "As expected, Elysium has been corrupted by the presence of their apparent human king. A shame really."
Mercy gets a little annoyed about the way Lotus treats Lud, but she stays calm and says "Humans have ruled the lower realm with great success over the years just fine. What makes you think a human can't rule a country in the middle realm?"
Lotus looks at Mercy dead in the eyes and says "I did expect you of all people to see the taint humans give to those who they are in contact with, but it appears you have been tainted as well. A shame really. But now that he is a demigod, I suppose a marriage between the Absolution and Ilumnos is acceptable."
Mercy had it with Lotus and jabs back "Well at least he isn't pretending to be something he is not."
Lotus gets irritated but still asks calmly "What is that supposed to mean?" Fully aware of what Mercy is referring to.
Mercy tells Lotus the "angels" ugly truth in retaliation for Lotus' disdain for humans "You are using magic to make your wings appear white when that is not the case, Miss fallen angel."
Lotus keeps her calm even though what Mercy said is something she would normalt punish anyone lower than her. "I do not know what you mean, Miss Vampire. I am as mighty as the angles in this realm, so I simply haven't lost my white shine." But as she speaks, the clear irritation in Lotus' voice and face tells Mercy all that she wanted.
Mercy smirks and says "Well if you say so. We'll see how the actual angels from higher realm react to your claim. You may go in, Miss fallen angel."
Lotus bows hesitantly this time and goes further into the party without saying any words further.
Lud just comments to Mercy who seems happy at herself "I'm a little surprised that you would defend me like that."
Mercy pats Lud's head and says "Well I am your future wife, so of course I'm gonna defend you when you are this disrespected."
Then Mercy stops patting and says "But to be honest, that is something she will hear throughout the banquet if she converses with the people of the higher realm."
After greeting a few more guests, Lud sees someone he didn't expect to see. Ult and Cardinal are standing before him like it is the most obvious place for them to be.
Ult bows a little and says "Greetings. We have received your invitation and come here to… celebrate your union."
Mercy says "Didn't expect to see you. I've heard of the world eater, but never have I seen those who have made her their home."
Ult bows again in a humble manner and says "It is the first time for us as well. We won't stay for long as our kin feels very weak outside Valth'zar. I hope you understand our limited time."
Mercy says "I understand. This must be very new to you two, but please feel free to enjoy the little time you have here."
Ult bows humbly yet again and says "We will. And Ludwig."
Lud gulps in worry and asks "What is it?"
Ult smiles slightly at him and says "I'll be waiting to see little Lud's floricking around soon before my era ends."
Lud gives an awkward smile and says "I'll… keep that in mind."
Ult and Cardinal bow once more and go further in.
Lud asks Mercy "Not that I'm against it, but why were they invited?"
Mercy responds with a calm "I heard that the life of the pope in Valth'zar is very lonely, so I wanted to grant her this opportunity to socialize."
Lud says in a worry "I hope that she won't push herself too hard."
Mercy giggles a little and says to Lud with a smile "Oh you young soul. You have much to learn about that lady."
Lud is confused and asks "What is that supposed to mean?"
Mercy changes the subject and says "Time to greet the higher realm people."
First to arrive was the Embershthir family. Loyr seems to be in a happy mood and says quite loudly "Now would you look at you! You managed to get yourself in a rather interesting position, haven't you! I'm glad to see that our benefactor has made it big."
Mercy closes her eyes for a moment as she remarks "Not even greeting the lady of the house? My dear friend, even after all this time, you still resemble your past self."
Loyr backtracks a little and says "Oh no no no. I was merely excited to see my dear benefactor here. And while I only have read my past notes about it, I still remember the last banquet. Let's hope that this one will not end in the same manner."
Mercy opens her eyes, smiles and says jokingly "Hear hear. The Embershthir's have entered the banquet with energy to share. Forgetting all about their old friend that has been replaced with a new one."
Loyr groans a little and says "Can you drop the flare? While my past self has met you, for me, you are someone I've met for the first time. But according to my notes, you don't usually make fun of people like this. I take it you have changed?"
Mercy says "I wonder about that. I can see that not all was carried on in those notes. With friends, I can crack a joke or two. But other than that, I'll tend to keep up appearances as someone in my position should."
Loyr says "I see." Then looks at Lud as if he was asking for help. Lud doesn't know why Loyr is asking for help, so he just says "Why don't you go chat with the other guests, hmm."
Loyr takes the opportunity and says "We'll do just that." as he goes into the party hall. Flot and Shala give a graceful bow before leaving to make sure the patriarch's energy is contained.
Then came representatives of dragons. The dragon god Trix and a tall white haired woman with sizable breasts.
Trix starts the greeting with "Heyo! Future son in law! I have mixed feelings about you getting together with a little vamp here, but I can forgive you if you agree here and now that Perere will become one of your wives."
The woman beside Trix says in an annoyed, yet dignified tone "I have said this many times now, but with all due respect great Trixtitkitus, that I'm not going to become bound by someone so weak."
Trix puts her hands on the back of her head and says "But why not? You already have a child."
The woman beside Trix says in an increasingly annoyed tone, "I'm sure that you are aware, great Trixtitkitus, that I have not given birth to any child."
Trix just says to Lud "And there you have it, future son in law. Take good care of Perere."
Lud tries to decline, but weird crackles start to happen around them, which makes Lud worried for a moment.
The woman beside Trix says with a hint of anger "Great Trixtitkitus. I. Will. Not. Marry. This. Human."
Trix retorts without care in the world "Technically he is now a demigod." And starts to walk further into the party.
Pere almost raises her voice, but soon she calms down a little and glares at Lud. She extends her hand to him for a handshake and Lud obliges.
Lud can feel his hand being crushed as Pere speaks "Greetings. My name is Peretasha Xitolrta. The dragon patriarch. Nice. To. Meet. You."
Lud just gives an awkward smile and introduces himself while in pain "Name's Faust Ilumnos. We are glad to have you join us."
Once Lud said "join us" part, Lud could hear a few cracks coming from his hand. Through the pain, Lud kept on smiling at Pere who would let go of his hand after intense staring.
Then Pere went further into the party without even greeting Mercy. Mercy heals Lud's crushed hand in a flash and comments "First time meeting you and the dragon patriarch already hates you. Quite impressive given she is a very forgiving person."
Lud looks at Mercy in confusion and asks "How in the hell is she a forgiving person?"
Mercy answers with "She has her pride on the line and I'm sure Trixtitkitus has embarrassed her in front of her fellow dragons."
Lud says after tidying up "That does make sense. But isn't it a little childish to vent her frustration on me?"
Mercy says "This might be the first time in history that Peretasha has felt this kind of embarrassment. Does that answer your question?"
Lud thinks for a moment and then says "I guess it is understandable in that case. But isn't she super old?"
Mercy answers "Even older than me."
Lud is speechless for a moment and just blurts out "wow".
Then a familiar god appears in front of Lud and Mercy. Atkoosa says in a cheery and loud tone "Greetings! It is good to see you again after all this time, my friends!"
Atkoosa proceeds to hug both Lud and Mercy in one big hug. Lud gets a little suffocated and taps Atkoosa's hand for mercy and Atkoosa soon releases them.
Mercy says with a warm smile "I'm glad to see that you are as bright as ever, sun god Atkoosa."
Atkoosa slams his chest with a fist two times and says "Of course! Where the sun goes, the warmth shall be shared!"
Meridiem peeks behind Atkoosa's big body and waves at Mercy and Lud. She says "I'm here too. Sorry if we cause a ruckus. I can compensate a little if some gods cause damage during the banquet. Also thanks Faust for using my power properly in negotiations."
Lud says "No problem. It wasn't really me that figured out the way things work here. Especially the fact that… well, god of contracts even existed."
Meridiem says "Li is one of your underlings, so it is also your achievement in some sense. But humility is appreciated in talks such as these."
Mercy says "It saddens me to hear that most people have forgotten the way to make contracts in your name, but I'm happy that it is now getting traction again."
Meridiem smiles and says "No kidding. I was worried that I would end up completely forgotten at some point. Curses for that Fein and what he stands for."
Lud mentions to Meridiem that "He is actually further in at the moment."
Meridiem says in an evil tone "Is he now. Well then. If you'll excuse me, I have some business to settle."
Meridiem goes ahead and Atkoosa says "It is best if I follow her, so see you later."
And with that, Atkoosa went to the party as well.
As soon as Atkoosa left, Epithos appears seemingly out of nowhere and says "Well while I was gonna say my greetings, it appears that my sworn enemy is in the party, so greetings and see you later."
With that, Epithos goes to the party and Mercy explains to Lud who he was.
Then a woman with long pink hair and massive breasts hugs Mercy. She says "Oh Mercy. My darling. It is good to see you."
The woman kisses Mercy repeatedly, leaving kiss marks on Mercy's face.
Mercy laughs a little and says "It is great to see you too Raks. Though this is the first time we get to touch, you sure don't hold back."
Raks stops kissing for a moment and says "Of course I'm gonna do this when I haven't been able to touch you like this, like ever."
Then Raks looks at Lud and jumps to hug him while saying "And this is your lovely fiance! Oh how happy I am for two people to find partners in their life like this." Raks proceeds to kiss Lud on the cheeks as well.
Lud tries to push her off, but he can't. Mercy says to Raks "While I'm glad that you get to be in contact with normal people now, now is not the time to be overly touchy, Raks."
Raks stops kissing for a moment, thinks and lets go of Lud. She then introduces herself to Lud "My name is Raks, and I'm the god of love in this beautiful world. I hope that I get to see you love the people around you without worry or regret."
Lud says "It is… nice to see you too." Not knowing where to look, as Raks is wearing rather revealing clothes. Funnily enough, still more than what Perkele was wearing.
Raks says "Oh, you are ~sooo sweet. I can't wait to watch how you make love with people around you. But I have more people to see, so I'll see you later."
With a flying kiss, Raks leaves Lud and Mercy, of which the former being a little confused after that interaction.
Lud asks Mercy "So when she talks about 'making love' does she mean…"
Mercy reveals that "Yes. Love in every sense of the word. I'm actually more worried that she is here than I'm worried that Perkele is."
Lud is surprised by that, looks away and asks "Should I be worried as well?"
To which Mercy says nothing. Which in turn makes Lud even more worried.
Soon later, an angel with eight wings comes forth wearing white robes that have symbols on them. Besides him is an angel with six wings, who is wearing white cloth covering her face as well as some armor with robes that are easy to move with, and an angel with four wings, who is wearing robes with less symbols than the other two.
The eight winged angel greets Mercy and Lud first by saying "Greetings you holinesses. It is our honor from the holy church to be invited to this event. After hearing the engagement between the two of you, we expect you with open arms to make further appointments to hold a wedding never seen."
Mercy smiles, nods and says "It is great to see you as well, your holiness, the pope Lucious Pon Enkel III. I'll ask you later how things have gone for you during my absence."
Lucious bows a little and says "So it shall be."
Then the six winged angel introduces herself "I am the Archinsecutor of the holy church and my purpose is to uproot all that is evil in this world."
The four winged angel says next "I am Rupalin Entos V and I am the archbishop of the holy church. Pleased to meet you."
Mercy nods and says "Thank you for coming. Please go further and remember to act civil."
The three of them bow once more and go further into the party.
Lud asks a valid question "Will they be alright when Perkele and others are there as well?"
Mercy responds with a simple "One can only hope."