A few days passed, and most of my time was spent in the peaceful confines of Stardust Garden. I checked on the Juggernaut, half-expecting it to somehow still linger. But there was nothing left—only dust and fading traces of its violent birth. It was truly gone.
One evening, while walking back under the cover of night, I saw a commotion in a side alley. A thug was chasing a small boy, fury etched into his twisted face. I didn't hesitate. With a flick of my hand and a whisper of magic, I invoked Aetheris Rift. The thug vanished—spirited away to Folkvangr without a trace. Only after did it occur to me: maybe that was a bit much. He was scum, but still... maybe I could've sent him somewhere less poetic.
The scene stirred something in me. A memory—Ryu Lion, the Gale. The lone survivor of the Astraea Familia who had taken justice into her own hands and wiped out the remnants of Evilus after they slaughtered her comrades. Her rampage became legend.
But Evilus wasn't gone. Not truly. They were still out there—festering in the shadows, plotting, killing. And if they were still breathing, then Orario was still living under the long shadow of the Dark Age.
And I—I couldn't allow that. Not with Bell coming to this city someday. Not with everything at stake.
So I made my peace.
I would take up the Gale's mantle.
I would finish what Ryu started.
Royman kept his word—likely out of fear more than respect—and the compensation arrived on the sixth day. Valis, weapons, grimoires. Everything I asked for.
And tonight would be my final night at Stardust Garden.
I stood before the mirror, wrapping myself in shadow. Black fabric clung to my form, sleek and silent. My face hidden beneath a hood and mask. Not a trace of Eirion Cranel remained—only the ghost of a reckoning.
People might laugh at the idea. One person, wiping out Evilus? Ridiculous. Some of them were Level 4s. A few were even Level 5s. But I wasn't going to challenge them in the open. No—Aetheris Rift gave me the edge. Surprise. Silence. Death.
Even a Level 5 can't stop a knife to the throat when they never see it coming.
I turned, stepping out into the moonlight—ready to begin the purge.
But I stopped in my tracks.
A calm, commanding voice spoke behind me.
"Eirion."
I froze.
There was no mistaking it. That quiet authority. The voice of someone who didn't need to raise her tone to make the world stop spinning.
I turned slowly.
Goddess Astraea stood a few paces behind me, bathed in silver light, her gaze unflinching. Her long hair shifted in the evening breeze, and though her expression was serene, her eyes—those sharp, starlit eyes—pierced straight through me. Goddess Astraea stood at the edge of the path, her white robes catching the silver light of the stars. Her expression was composed yet had edge of care in them.
You're dressed for war," she said softly, stepping into the moonlight. "Would you mind telling me why a nine-year-old child is heading off to fight one?"
I didn't flinch. My voice was calm, resolute.
"To keep fate the same... while being greedy enough to save people."
She stared at me, unmoving for a long moment. Then, without a word, she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around me, pulling me into her gentle embrace. I didn't resist as she lowered me to sit beside her on the stone bench near the garden's edge. She placed my head in her lap and began softly patting my hair.
"Can you tell me everything, Eirion?" she whispered.
I didn't know why—but I listened to her voice, and for once, I let myself speak. I told her everything.
How, years ago, I had a vision—one I couldn't explain. In it, I saw the Astraea Familia fall, slaughtered in the Dungeon by a monster they never saw coming. Only one survived—Ryu Lion. Broken by loss and driven by vengeance, she went on to hunt down every last member of Evilus. One by one. It took time. It took everything from her. But she did it. Alone, she ended the Dark Age.
And yet, because I had saved the Familia from that fate… that future no longer existed.
So the burden became mine.
If the Dark Age must still end, I would end it.
I would be the shadow in the dark. The storm they never saw coming. I would walk the path Ryu once did—so that none of them would have to.
By the time I finished telling her everything, my voice had faded, my words slowing. My eyes drifted closed. The weight of the truth, the days of preparation, and her warm hand gently stroking my hair… it lulled me into sleep.
From the shadows nearby, someone stepped out.
It was Alise.
She looked at the slumbering child in her goddess's lap, her face unreadable, but her voice cracked with quiet bitterness.
"Tell me, Lady Astraea," she said. "Have we failed that badly at justice… if a child is willing to go to war alone and die for it?"
The stars glittered overhead, uncaring of the weight resting in Astraea's arms.
Alise stood silently for a moment, eyes fixed on the boy nestled in their goddess's lap—face calm, breathing slow. He looked like any other child. But the truth they'd just heard was anything but childish.
"…He's serious," Alise finally said. Her voice was soft, but her fists were clenched at her sides. "He was really going to do it."
Astraea didn't look up. Her fingers continued threading gently through Eirion's hair, soothing him even in sleep. "He's not wrong. Not completely."
"Don't say that." Alise's tone sharpened. "He's nine, Astraea. He shouldn't even know what Evilus is, let alone be planning their eradication."
"He saw a future where all of you died. Where you died. And instead of running, he stepped forward." Astraea finally lifted her eyes to meet Alise's. "He didn't act out of vengeance, like Ryu. He did it out of duty."
Alise exhaled sharply, brushing her red hair behind her ear. "It still doesn't make it right."
"No," Astraea agreed quietly. "But maybe it makes it necessary."
A heavy silence settled between them, thick with unspoken truths—of fate, sacrifice, and a child's burden taken far too early.
"I never asked to be a symbol," Alise muttered bitterly. "I just wanted to protect people… not become the reason some child decides to become a martyr."
"You didn't ask for it," Astraea said, voice soft. "But Eirion chose to carry it. On his own. He tried to walk into the dark for our sake."
"…We can't let him do this," Alise said firmly.
"No," Astraea whispered. She leaned down and kissed Eirion's temple, her hand cradling his head gently. "We won't."
Alise glanced sideways, eyes narrowing. "What are you planning?"
Astraea's smile was small, wistful… and resolute beneath its calm surface. "What justice demands. We'll plan. We'll prepare. And then we'll strike. Silently, decisively. We will eradicate Evilus… just as Ryu once did."
Her hand lingered protectively over Eirion's sleeping form.
"We will end this darkness. I am truly furious that they tried to harm my children."
Alise's jaw tightened, her voice quiet. "Then… where do we start?"
"First," Astraea said, standing slowly, her expression sharpening with purpose, "we make sure this child doesn't wake up for the next few days. He needs rest. He earned it."
She turned her gaze toward the quiet hallway beyond the garden. "Remember when I asked you and Lyra to step out while I spoke to Royman?"
Alise blinked. "Yes?"
"During that time, I told him everything—everything. That I was done watching Evilus fester under our feet. I told him we were going to wipe them out. Thoroughly. Without mercy. That the Guild would either support us or stay the hell out of our way."
A beat of silence passed.
"…He agreed?"
Astraea's lips twitched into something like a smirk. "Let's just say… he got the message."
Alise grinned, fire lighting behind her eyes. "Then I'll gather the others."
"Good," Astraea said, her voice filled with quiet fury. "Tell them: justice doesn't wait. And neither do we."
The scent of wildflowers drifted through the open window of the Stardust Garden. Birds chirped quietly outside, and faint voices echoed from the distant halls.
Eirion stirred.
His limbs felt heavy, like they'd been wrapped in lead. As he blinked away the blur from his vision, soft sunlight filtered across the ceiling. Slowly, he sat up—his head aching faintly, but his memories returning in a rush.
The black clothes. The plan. The promise.
He threw off the blanket and stood, realizing he was still in his room.
How long was I asleep?
The door creaked open.
"Eirion." Astraea's voice was soft, but carried that serene calm he knew too well. "You're awake."
He didn't answer. Not right away.
"How long?" he asked, his voice hoarse.
"Three days," she replied.
"…How I was going to hunt down Evilus? Why did stay asleep for three days" he asked, already dreading the answer.
Astraea didn't flinch. "Evilus is gone. Wiped out. The Guild's already confirmed it. Dark Age is over."
The words hit him like a slap.
"You… you promised," he said, taking a step forward. "You said you wouldn't let me do it alone. You didn't say you'd do it without me."
Astraea didn't respond, but guilt flickered across her features.
"You lied!" His voice rose, trembled with hurt. "You waited for me to fall asleep and then—!"
"Oi, calm down, kid," Alise's voice cut in as she stepped into the room, arms crossed. "She didn't break your trust."
Eirion turned to her, blinking. "What?"
"I overheard you," Alise said plainly. "The whole thing. Your visions, your plan, everything you told her. Astraea didn't share a word of it. Not with any of us."
"But she—"
"She made the call," Alise interrupted again. "I made the rest happen. We couldn't let a kid walk into something none of us should've faced alone. You lit the spark, Eirion. But don't be stupid enough to think you had to burn for it."
Astraea stepped beside Alise, her eyes shining.
"You saved us before we even realized we needed saving," she said softly. "But I will never let you become a symbol of justice through sacrifice. Not while I still draw breath."
Eirion looked between them, chest tight. Part of him still burned with frustration—but another part, deeper and quieter, felt something else:
Relief. maybe because he knew that even with all of his magic he was not ready for those crazy people Evilus maybe he was scared
"…I'm still mad," he muttered, looking away.
"That's fair," Astraea said gently. "But you're alive. We all are. And the darkness… it's finally over."
Alise grinned and ruffled his hair. "You can yell at us later. Right now, you've got family waiting to foryou. Lyra's already preparing tea like this is some kind of holiday."
Eirion huffed, but the corner of his mouth twitched.
he morning breeze danced through the courtyard of Stardust Garden as Eirion stood before the gathered Astraea Familia, dressed once again in travel leathers instead of battle black.
He looked up at them—Alise, Lyra, Noin, all the girls he'd grown to know in just a short span of time. They were warriors, each and every one. But more than that, they were people he had come to admire, and maybe… quietly care for.
Astraea stood at the center, her hands clasped and her smile serene, though her eyes shimmered faintly with emotion.
"It's not forever," Eirion said, trying to keep his voice from trembling. "Just for now. I've got people waiting for me."
"You've got a home here, too," Astraea said softly. "Whenever you're ready."
"…Thank you," he murmured, then stepped forward and hugged her tightly. "For listening. For trusting me."
She wrapped her arms around him, pressing a soft kiss to the top of his head. "You brought light into the dark, Eirion. Just like the Gale once did. I'm proud of you."
With one last wave to the girls, Eirion turned and walked away—his steps firm, heart lighter than it had been in days.
Two Days Later – Outside the Village
The rolling hills of the countryside came into view, and with it, the cozy wooden house where a very familiar old man was chopping wood shirtless with the vigor of someone who absolutely wasn't acting his age.
"Oi, Gramps!" Eirion called, waving as he approached.
Zeus turned, eyes widening. "Well if it ain't my handsome devil of a grandson!" He dropped the axe and scooped Eirion up in a crushing hug. "Bell's been worried sick—told him you were off chasing rabbits. Kid was starting to look for rabbit ears in the forest."
"I'm fine," Eirion said, laughing into the hug. "Better than fine, actually."
As Zeus set him down, Eirion reached into his bag and tossed a pouch that landed with a heavy thunk on the porch. "Courtesy of the Guild. two hundred and twenty million valis, a magic saber and draggers set, and six grimoires."
Zeus blinked. "...What kind of rabbits were you chasing?"
Eirion grinned. "The kind that tried to massacre the Astraea Familia. I stopped them. Warned the Guild. Got paid."
Zeus's eyes narrowed, then softened. He let out a low whistle. "You really did it."
"Yeah," Eirion said, quiet now. "I saved them. All of them. I saw a future where they died… and I made sure it didn't happen."
The old man studied him for a long moment, then clapped a hand on his shoulder. "You did good, kid. Real good. Just don't carry it all by yourself next time, alright?"
Eirion nodded, a faint smile on his lips. "I won't. Not anymore."
From inside, Bell's voice called out, "Gramps? Is that Eirion?!"
"Coming!" Eirion called back, running for the door.
He was home.
"Gramps," Eirion said, stepping outside as the sun dipped low over the hills, painting the sky in streaks of orange and gold. "I think it's time. Bell and I… we're ready. We're heading to Orario. Time to find a Familia."
Zeus froze mid-swig of his favorite drink, then slowly turned with a grin that could only be described as trouble.
"Haha! That's my boys! Make sure you join a Familia with a cute and sexy goddess, you hear me?" He wagged his eyebrows with exaggerated glee. "Preferably one with a love for old men, eh? Eh?"
Eirion didn't even flinch. "I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that."
Zeus let out a loud, wheezing laugh. "You'll miss me when I'm gone!"
Eirion shook his head and turned back toward the house, where Bell had been polishing his dagger near the hearth. He stepped in quietly, watching his twin brother for a moment before speaking.
"Bell."
Bell looked up, tilting his head. "Yeah?"
"I told Gramps. It's time. We're going to Orario."
For a heartbeat, Bell didn't move. Then his eyes lit up with a mixture of joy and awe. "Really?! You mean it?!"
Eirion smiled. "Yeah. Let's go start our story."
Bell jumped to his feet, nearly knocking over the chair. "Yes! I'll start packing up right away!"
As Bell rushed around the house gathering his things, Eirion looked out the window toward the distant skyline.
They were ready.
The world shimmered, space folding like silk around them.
With a soft hum and a pulse of light, Eirion and Bell stepped out of the rift. The air shifted—warmer, heavier, buzzing with distant life. They stood on a grassy ridge, only a few hours' walk from Orario. And there, rising above the horizon like a monument to ambition and mystery, stood the Tower of Babel.
Even from here, it loomed impossibly tall, piercing the clouds.
Bell stumbled a bit, catching his breath. "I'll never get used to that… teleporting thing."
Eirion chuckled, brushing a hand through his hair. "It's faster than walking a week through the wilderness."
Bell turned slowly, taking in the massive stone roads, the caravans in the distance, the tiny shimmer of city walls far off ahead.
"That's Orario…" he whispered. "We're actually here."
Eirion nodded, eyes narrowing slightly—not in hesitation, but determination. "Everything changes from this point on. You ready?"
Bell clutched the small pack on his back. "Ready as I'll ever be. Which Familia are we joining?"
Eirion glanced toward the city and gave a cryptic smile. "Let's see who fate puts in our path first."
And so, side by side, the twin brothers walked the path toward Orario—the Labyrinth City—where gods watched from balconies, heroes carved their names into legend, and the dungeon below waited to test their strength and their hearts.
As the twins approached the towering gates of Orario, two armored guards from the Ganesha Familia stepped forward. One of them, a burly man with a lion insignia on his breastplate, raised a hand to stop them.
"Hold it there, kids," he said, voice firm but not unkind. "You're a bit young to be walking into the city alone. We've got some questions."
Eirion nodded calmly. Bell tried not to fidget beside him.
The second guard, a sharp-eyed woman with a clipboard in hand, stepped up and began the routine check.
"Names?"
"Eirion Cranel," Eirion replied.
"Bell Cranel!" Bell added quickly, eyes wide with anticipation.
She scribbled the names down.
"Age?"
"Nine," they said in unison.
The first guard raised an eyebrow. "Really? You came all the way to Orario at nine?"
The woman glanced at them. "Is this your first time coming to Orario?"
Eirion gave Bell a small look, letting him answer.
"Y-Yes, this is our first time here," Bell said nervously.
"We're here to join a Familia and become adventurers," Eirion added smoothly.
"Where are you coming from?"
"A village far west of here, near the mountains," Eirion answered truthfully.
The female guard tilted her head. "And who's your guardian?"
"Our grandfather," Bell replied. "He stayed behind."
"Any weapons or magic on you?"
Eirion hesitated for a moment. "None, but I can use magic."
The guards exchanged a look. That wasn't unusual in Orario—but hearing it from a child made them pause.
"Are you affiliated with any Familia already?"
"No. We're hoping to join one after registering at the Guild," Eirion said.
"Any criminal record or history of causing trouble?"
Bell blinked. "N-No!"
Eirion shook his head calmly.
The first guard studied them for a moment longer, then sighed and stepped aside. "Alright. You don't seem like trouble. But watch yourselves—Orario's no place for daydreamers. Entry fee is five thousand valis."
Bell flinched. "That much?"
Eirion wordlessly handed him a small bag heavy with coins, then passed it to the guard.
The second guard handed them each a stamped entry pass. "You'll need this to register at the Guild. Don't lose it."
"Thank you," Eirion said, taking Bell's hand and leading him through the gates.
"Welcome to Orario," the guard called after them. "Try not to die in the Dungeon."
"Whoa…"
The city opened like a dream. Towering buildings of stone and glass, narrow alleys brimming with life, gods' banners waving from mansions that seemed to sparkle with magic. In the distance, the Tower of Babel loomed like a god among gods, surrounded by a spiderweb of streets and shops.
Eirion stepped forward, his boots clicking softly on the stone path. "Welcome to Orario."
Bell caught up quickly, still gawking. "So, uh, what now?"
"We explore. Learn the layout. Find where the Guild is. Then… maybe see what Familia are recruiting."
They walked through the Market Area first—rows of stalls shouting about potions, armor, maps, dried meat, enchanted trinkets. A dwarven blacksmith barked loudly as he slammed a glowing sword into water. An elf girl sold enchanted maps that shifted when you touched them.
Bell tugged at Eirion's sleeve, pointing. "Hey! That guy just sold something for fifty thousand valis! That's more money than we've ever seen!"
Eirion grinned slightly. "Don't even think about blowing our savings on random junk," he teased—conveniently ignoring the fact that he had a crap ton of money tucked away in his dimensional storage.
Bell, eyes wide with wonder, turned in place as they moved deeper into the city. "Everything feels… alive."
"That's Orario," Eirion said, gaze lifting to the towering spire of Babel in the distance. "Where legends are born."
Eventually, the twins paused by a large stone fountain near the city's North. Sunlight sparkled across the water's surface, while adventurers, merchants, and civilians flowed around them like a tide.
"So," Bell said, catching his breath, "should we head to the Guild now?"
Eirion nodded, but not before making a quick detour to a familiar food stall just down the street from the Twilight Manor. He returned with two steaming hot Jagamaru-kun, handing one to Bell.
"We register first," Eirion said, taking a bite of his. "Then… we choose our path to the Pantheon."
With their snack in hand, they made their way through the bustling streets until the Guild building came into view. Grand and stately, with a polished stone facade and an elegant blue banner bearing the Guild's insignia, it stood at the heart of the city like a hub of destiny.
Inside, it was buzzing with activity—adventurers reporting missions, rookies being guided by staff, and Guild employees rushing paperwork from one end to the other.
Eirion and Bell stepped up to the reception desk, where a young Guild worker looked up at them, surprised by their age but not dismissive.
"Welcome to the Guild," she said kindly. "How may help you out?"
"Yes, ma'am,
Eirion grinned slightly. "Don't even think about blowing our savings on random junk," he teased—conveniently ignoring the fact that he had a crap ton of money tucked away in his dimensional storage.
Bell, eyes wide with wonder, turned in place as they moved deeper into the city. "Everything feels… alive."
"That's Orario," Eirion said, gaze lifting to the towering spire of Babel in the distance. "Where legends are born."
Eventually, the twins paused by a large stone fountain near the city's center. Sunlight sparkled across the water's surface, while adventurers, merchants, and civilians flowed around them like a tide.
"So," Bell said, catching his breath, "should we head to the Guild now?"
Eirion nodded, but not before making a quick detour to a familiar food stall just down the street from the Twilight Manor. He returned with two steaming hot Jagamaru-kun, handing one to Bell.
"We register first," Eirion said, taking a bite of his. "Then… we choose our path to the Pantheon."
With their snack in hand, they made their way through the bustling streets until the Guild building came into view. Grand and stately, with a polished stone facade and an elegant blue banner bearing the Guild's insignia, it stood at the heart of the city like a hub of destiny.
Inside, it was buzzing with activity—adventurers reporting missions, rookies being guided by staff, and Guild employees rushing paperwork from one end to the other.
Eirion and Bell stepped up to the reception desk, where a young Guild worker looked up at them, surprised by their age but not dismissive.
"Welcome to the Guild," she said kindly. "How may I help you out?"
"Yes, ma'am, we're here to register as adventurers" Eirion said.
Bell nodded eagerly beside him.
"Alright, follow me. I'll get someone to assist you through the process. It'll take a little time, so make yourselves comfortable."
As they followed the staff member into the heart of the Guild, Eirion glanced sideways at Bell and smirked. "This is it. We're one step away from rewriting the story."
Bell's eyes sparkled. "Let's make it a good one."
The twins were guided to a side desk, away from the noisy center of the Guild. Waiting there, flipping through a stack of papers with a sigh that said she'd rather be anywhere else, was a woman with long crimson-red hair tied in a loose ponytail. Her sharp golden eyes glanced up—instantly locking onto the two boys.
"New adventurers?" she asked, her voice flat but not entirely cold.
"Yes," Eirion said, stepping forward. "We're here to register."
She gave them a once-over. "Names."
"Eirion Cranel."
"Bell Cranel!"
Rose blinked slowly. "Cranel, huh? Brothers?"
Bell looked a little nervous but nodded. "Twins."
"Hmph. Sit," she said, gesturing to the chairs in front of her desk. "Let's get this over with."
As they sat, Rose began filling out a form. "Age?"
"Nine," they said in unison.
"You both realize Orario is not a playground?" she asked, glancing up from the clipboard, her gaze sharp. "You don't get second chances in the Dungeon."
"We're ready," Eirion said. "We're here to become stronger."
Rose studied him for a long moment, then looked at Bell—who tried to hold her gaze but clearly felt the pressure.
"Alright," she muttered, and pushed a pair of forms toward them. "Fill these out. I'll walk you through it."
As the twins scribbled their details down, she explained the basics—Guild registration, mission requests, the Familia system, Dungeon danger levels.
"Once you've registered, you'll be considered adventurers under Guild supervision," she said, arms crossed. "But if you think that means we'll protect you, think again. You're responsible for your own lives. Don't count on anyone to save you."
Eirion listened carefully, unflinching. Bell gulped.
Rose noticed the difference and narrowed her eyes at Eirion. "You've been in Orario before?"
"Nope," Eirion Lied though his teeth .
After reviewing their forms, Rose gave a low hum of approval. "Clean records, decent writing. No Familia yet?"
"No," Eirion said. "We plan to find one after this."
Rose stood up and reached for a stamped parchment. "Here are your temporary Guild IDs. You'll get permanent ones once you join a Familia. Until then, you can access the Guild's first-floor resources library and maps and request beginner missions—after you're evaluated by an advisor."
"Now," Rose said, pen poised above her clipboard, "do you two have a preference for your advisor? Race? Gender?"
"I already know someone at the Guild," I said, meeting her gaze directly. "Her name's Eina Tulle. I'd like her to be our advisor."
Rose blinked. "Eina? Huh. She's still pretty green. First-timers, huh? I'll check if she's comfortable taking you both on."
Bell beamed. "So that means… we're really adventurers now?"
"Not quite," Rose said, her voice flat. "You still need to join a Familia. That's when your real journey begins."
As she handed us our registration papers, I looked at her seriously. "Thanks for taking us seriously. Can you tell us about the Familia we can apply to?"
Rose hesitated for a moment before sighing and reaching beneath the counter. She dropped a thick folder in front of us with a heavy thud.
"Here's a list of active Familia and their deities. The big names include Freya Familia, Loki Familia, Amaterasu Familia, Aphrodite, Dellingr, Hathor, Magni, Modi, Ogma, Poseidon, Ratri, Sekhmet, Serket, Set, Sobek, Thor, and Vidar," she rattled off. "Each god's got their own quirks and rules. Read carefully. Some take in dozens, others only a handful. And not every one of them is... safe."
I flipped through the list, scanning familiar names. I already knew where I wanted to go.
"I've made my choice," I said. "I want to apply to the Loki Familia."
Rose paused, then let out a slow, knowing sigh. Figures. Another kid shooting for the stars. Still, she reached under the counter and handed me a crisp application form. "Fill this out."
As I filled out the application, I listed healing and ice magic as my specialties, keeping Aetheris Rift—my space magic—to myself for now. I didn't need to show my full hand. After finish filling out form we left toward Twilight Manor
Eina Tulle was meticulously organizing documents at her desk when she heard a firm tap on the wood. She looked up to find Rose Fannett standing over her, arms crossed, a clipboard tucked under one arm.
"Eina Tulle," Rose said flatly, "you're getting your first adventurers."
Eina blinked, caught off guard. "Wait—me? Already?"
Rose dropped a pair of registration forms onto the desk. "Twin boys. Fresh from the countryside. Names are Eirion and Bell Cranel."
Eina reached for the papers, scanning them quickly. "They're only nine?"
"They are," Rose confirmed. "But they're sharp. Focused. Eirion specifically asked for you."
"Me? I now that I think about don't that name feel familiar remind that." Eina asked, her voice rising an octave.
Rose gave a subtle shrug. "Word travels. Maybe you made an impression in passing, maybe they just liked your face. Either way, they're yours now."
Eina looked down at the forms again—basic details, listed hometown, magical aptitude. No red flags, but no references either. Still, something about the way their answers were written felt... thoughtful.
Bell's handwriting was eager and messy.
Eirion's was sharp. Deliberate.
"I—I don't know," Eina mumbled, smoothing her skirt nervously. "What if I mess up? What if they get hurt—"
"They will," Rose interrupted bluntly. "That's Orario. But if you care enough to be scared for them, you're already better than half the advisors here."
Eina swallowed. "Right…"
Rose leaned closer, voice low but firm. "They're kids, yeah. But they came here on their own. They're serious. You can help them. Or you can let someone else send them to their deaths."
That silenced Eina. After a breath, she straightened up, nodding with more certainty than she felt.
"I'll do it. I'll be their advisor."
"Good," Rose said, already turning away. "They'll be in tomorrow morning for an orientation. Don't keep them waiting."
Eina watched her go, then looked down at the forms again, her hands trembling just a little.
"Eirion and Bell Cranel…" she whispered to herself, a small smile breaking through her nerves. "Alright. Let's get to work."
Twilight fell gently over Orario, casting golden light on the massive tower that loomed at the center of the city. But the Cranel twins weren't headed there—not yet. Instead, their steps brought them through the busy upper district streets to a place guarded by tall gates and proud banners bearing the symbol of a smirking red-haired goddess.
As they paused near the front, Eirion quietly raised his hand. A soft shimmer of light coalesced around him as he tapped into the spatial storage magic only he knew how to use. From a quiet rift in the air, he drew out a gleaming saber and two sheathed daggers the once I got from the guild.
He handed the daggers to Bell, who blinked in surprise. "Where'd you get these?"
Eirion smiled faintly. "From Grandpa."
Bell ran his fingers along the dagger hilts with quiet awe, then nodded. "I'll take good care of them."
Eirion clipped the saber to his belt. Its polished edge caught the fading light, resting snug against his side like it belonged there. "I know you will."
They turned to the gates together, standing a little taller now—not just as boys, but as soon-to-be adventurers.
The Loki Familia Manor.
Eirion and Bell stood before the entrance, clutching their completed Guild registration forms and freshly-stamped licenses. Both wore simple but clean clothes, polished as best they could manage.
"Wow," Bell breathed. "It's even bigger than I imagined…"
Eirion didn't answer right away. His violet eyes scanned the estate's heavy stone walls, the posted guards, and the light chatter of Familia members training just out of sight. His heart was steady—but the weight of what this step meant wasn't lost on him.
"Remember what we wrote on those forms," Eirion said quietly. "We're not here just to join—we're here to contribute."
Bell nodded, gripping his paper tighter.
The gates were guarded, but thankfully, not by the sharp-tongued werewolf that fan stories had warned about. Instead, a calm, broad-shouldered human with a trimmed beard and a greatspear slung on his back stepped forward. It wouldn't make sense to have level 4 member standing as guard.
Glad that it was not Bete
"State your business," he said, voice brisk but not rude.
Eirion stepped forward, calm and clear. "We're here to request a meeting with someone from the Loki Familia. We're new adventurers and wish to apply for recruitment."
The guard raised an eyebrow. "Most kids try their luck with smaller Familia first."
"We know," Eirion said evenly. "But we believe our abilities—and our resolve—are worth at least a conversation. But we've prepared for this. We don't want easy—we want a Familia where we can grow strong."
The guard studied them for a moment longer, then gave a faint grunt of approval. "Alright. No promises. Stay here."
He turned and headed inside the manor, leaving the twins in tense silence.
Bell exhaled. "I thought he'd laugh at us."
"He didn't," Eirion said. "That's already a good sign."
Moments passed in tense silence… until the gates opened again.
Out walked a slim woman with wild, red hair, golden eyes, and a grin sharp enough to cut steel. She wore a red jacket and a look of sheer curiosity. Behind her trailed a short, robed elf—Riveria Ljos Alf, watching silently.
"So," Loki said, planting her hands on her hips, "you're the bold little sprouts who want to join my Familia?"
Bell stumbled into a bow. "Y-Yes, Goddess Loki!"
Eirion bowed slightly. "Thank you for seeing us."
Loki tilted her head. "You're not just here to chase dreams and glory, are you?"
"No," Eirion replied calmly. "We're here to build something. Together."
A slow, impressed hum left her throat. She turned to Riveria with a smirk. "You hear that? Sounds like they came prepared."
The elf said nothing, but her gaze sharpened.
"Alright, kids," Loki said, smile widening. "You've got five minutes. Show me why you deserve to wear my banner. I need to go have drink after this."
Inside the Loki Familia manor, the twins were led to a modest but well-furnished room. A long table stood at the center, with Loki lounging comfortably at one end, Riveria seated beside her—poised and unreadable. A few other Familia members lingered quietly along the walls, observing the unusual visitors.
Loki laced her fingers together, resting her chin on them. Her sharp eyes studied the twins with a mixture of curiosity and scrutiny.
"So," she began, voice lilting with amusement, "why do you think I'd let you two brats into my Familia?"
Eirion glanced at Bell and gave him a slight nod.
Bell stood up a little straighter. "My name is Bell Cranel. I've trained in basic swordsmanship and dagger combat under my grandfather since I was little. I don't have magic, but I'm fast, and I want to get stronger—strong enough to protect people. That's why I came to Orario."
His voice was sincere, if a little nervous. Loki watched him for a moment, then turned to Eirion.
Eirion met her gaze calmly. "Hello, Goddess Loki. My name is Eirion Cranel—Bell's twin brother. I specialize in healing and magic. I possess congenital magic—magic I was born with—and I've trained extensively under our grandfather's guidance."
He continued without hesitation. "I wield two primary spells. The first is Glacies Spina, an ice-elemental attack magic. The second is Sanctum Lumen, an advanced healing spell with wide-range capabilities. I can also perform concurrent chanting."
At that, Riveria's brow lifted slightly in interest.
"Concurrent chanting?" she echoed. "At your age?"
Eirion nodded. "Yes, ma'am."
Loki leaned back, grinning. "Alright then, prodigy-boy. Let's see it."
Without another word, Eirion stepped into the open space at the center of the room. He closed his eyes briefly, channeling magic through his palm.
"Pierce with winter's fang—Glacies Spina!"
Frost shimmered in the air as a sword of solid ice took form, its surface etched with delicate patterns like frost on glass. He held it steady before dismissing it with a flick of his fingers.
Murmurs rose from a few of the Familia members.
Eirion then raised both hands, a golden light beginning to swirl around them. His voice rang out clearly, each word heavy with solemn power.
"O Radiant One, whose crown shines beyond the firmament,
Keeper of the flame that warms without burning,
I call upon thee—voice of dawn, hands of mercy,
Shelter this soul beneath thy unshattered light.
When the stars fall and the earth weeps,
When all that is pure is silenced by steel,
Let thy grace pour forth upon the broken.
Let thy name be sung in the stillness of despair.
He who walks through shadows shall not fall,
She who bleeds shall not be lost,
For thy light burns eternal in the cradle of hope.
Return breath to the dying.
Stitch the flesh, mend the spirit, and banish the curse—Sanctum Lumen!"
A soft, radiant glow filled the room, warm and weightless, brushing over the observers like a gentle breeze in spring. Riveria's eyes widened slightly—not just in surprise, but in genuine recognition of the spell's depth.
When the magic faded, silence lingered for a heartbeat.
Then Loki let out a low whistle. "Well, well… that's one hell of a show for a kid who's barely seen ten winters."
She exchanged a glance with Riveria, who offered the smallest of nods.
"You're serious about this," Loki said, more to herself than to them. "Not just guts, but actual skill. Hells, maybe you're worth the trouble."
She leaned forward, grinning again.
"You two… might just have a place here," Loki said, grinning slyly.
"Alright everyone leave."
Then her eyes twinkled mischievously. "Right then—strip."
Bell froze. "W-What?!"
Eirion blinked, nonplussed, just as a loud bonk landed squarely on Loki's head.
"Ow! What was that for?!" Loki whined, rubbing her scalp as Riveria calmly lowered her staff.
Riveria sighed, eyes half-lidded. "Don't make it weird. They're children."
"Jeez, mama, lighten up—"
"Who are you calling mama?"
Eirion raised a hand with a faint smile. "We already know. To receive a Falna—the blessing of a god—we need to show our backs. Grandpa explained it to us."
Loki blinked, then let out a dramatic sigh. "Tch, stealing all the fun…"
Bell, still red in the face, muttered, "Why does it have to be like this…"
Riveria stepped in again, this time her voice more formal. "It is how the divine contract is formed. Your god, or goddess, places their blessing—Falna—upon your back. It will mark the start of your growth as an adventurer."
Eirion nodded and began unbuttoning his shirt without fuss. "I'm ready."
Bell hesitated, then followed suit more slowly. "I-Is it going to hurt?"
"Nope," Loki said, her tone suddenly more gentle than teasing. "It's more like a warm touch. Just hold still, okay?"
As the two boys turned around, exposing their backs, Loki rolled up her sleeves and gave them a more serious look—one Eirion hadn't seen yet. Mischief faded into reverence.
She reached forward, fingers glowing faintly.
"Let's make it official," she murmured.