Hey guys just want to keep in touch this fanfiction will upload on fridays unless i'm sick or something happens. Now I'm working on my own personal book that'll be uploaded on Web Novel starting in May with a chapter uploading Monday,Wednesday,Friday. As it gets closer to the day I first upload. What that means for this story until I finish volume one the chapters of the fanfiction will be a little shorter. I want to thank you guys again for sticking with this story as we wind down from Volume 1
Regular text
Venom talking
(Thoughts)
[Health Bar]
ON TO THE CHAPTER
Oliver Pov.
"Only a day this time, huh?" I mused, flexing my fingers feeling no pain thanks to my regeneration.. "Honestly, it feels like I haven't had a proper break in awhile. It's been non-stop dungeon training or boss fights."
Venom's voice resonated with pride, "Hey, we legit beat two goliaths don't forget." adding in a playfully, "You would've died without me."
"Yeah, True,"I chuckled, acknowledging Venom's point. "We make a pretty good team. I'd be really lost without your help." Venom hummed in satisfaction but didn't reply.
I stretched, feeling the satisfying pop of his joints, a testament to his accelerated healing. Deciding to go talk to Hestia, I went to move off the bed when I noticed a blonde hair laying at the front of my bed.
I freeze, my heart pounding in my chest. The golden strand is unfamiliar, a big difference to my own black and white hair. I scramble off the bed, staring fully at the person laying on the bed. They're back facing me so I don't get a good look at the face.
"Hello?" I call out, my voice barely above a whisper, fear constricting my throat.
The only response is a soft groan from the foot of my bed, eyes widening as I see a figure slowly rising from where my feet had been moments ago.
"Ais?" I breathe out, surprise and confusion mingling with relief.
Before I could ask why Ais is in my room, Venom chimes in, his voice laced with amusement, "Well, well, someone had a sleepover and didn't invite me."
I felt my cheeks warm with embarrassment, "Venom, not now we need to figure out why she's here," I hissed internally.
Ais stirs again, blinking sleepily as she turns to face me. Her golden eyes meet mine, and my browns as we stare at each other.
"Oliver?" she murmurs, her voice raspy with sleep.
"Uh, hey," I stammer, rubbing the back of my neck awkwardly. "What are you doing here?"
Venom chuckles, "Smooth, buddy real smooth."
I ignore him, focusing on Ais. "How did you end up in my bed?"
Ais sits up, stretching lightly as her shirt tightens close to her body. Oliver can understand what Bell see's in her. She is usually clad in her armor, now appearing softer and much more normal compared to her usual look.
Her golden hair was tousled from sleep, and her normally sharp, focused eyes held a hazy, sleepy warmth. Dressed in simple clothes, she looked completely out of place in the modest room.
"I… was worried about you" she admits, her voice barely above a whisper. "Especially with how Bell, and some of the Loki members treated you I wanted to show you not everyone is against you"
'Well, this is awkward,' Venom quips, though I ignored his words as I was very confused.
"No need to worry about me?" I replied surprised. "Even these small events can't keep me down?"
Ais averted her gaze, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "The way others treated you wasn't right. Even I was a part of it sorry"
I felt a warmth spread through my chest, a feeling that has been very lacking recently."Thank you, Ais," I said sincerely. "That means a lot."
Venom hummed thoughtfully, "Well, she's not wrong. We've been through the wringer lately."
"Yeah," I agreed silently. "But we're still here so it's not all bad."
Ais looked up, her golden eyes meeting mine with a newfound intensity. "You're strong, Oliver," she said, her voice firm. "It's why I hope you won't see us in a bad light"
I smiled, a genuine one that reached my eyes. "I won't," I promised. "And I'm glad you're here."
The comfortable silence was broken by a soft chime, emanating from the menu. I'd almost forgotten about it with everything that had happened.
"Oh, right," I mumbled, pulling up the notification screen. As Ais made her way to the front room, leaving me in the room alone.
[Side Mission][Save Rivera][Completed][Reward - Force Fields]
[Force Fields automatically combined with Rika, New Skill Rika(S)]
Huh, neat so if skills stack they will automatically combine without my help that's nice.
[Emergency Missions][Defeat The Black Goliath][Completed][Reward - GeoKinesis]
[GeoKinesis automatically combined with Magnet Release, New Skill GeoKinesis(A)]
"Oliver, we can do so much with that skill", Venom Shouted
[Secret Missions][Stop The Black Goliath Alone][Reward - Aura, 3 Gacha Spins][Gacha Spins - 9]
"Huh, Venom we are becoming broken!", I shouted excitedly. "We can now make real force fields, control all earth, and the best part show off our energy"
"um,Oliver, look at the screen," Venom said worriedly.
[Emergency Mission: Konohagakure]
[Critical situation detected in another world. Your aid is urgently needed to save countless lives.]
[Rewards: Artificial Shariagon, 3 Gacha Spins]
My eyes widened. Another world? Konohagakure? That sounded familiar, wait I remember it from the anime I used to watch.
"Venom," I said, my voice laced with curiosity, "do you know anything about this?"
"I kinda stored the card for that mission within myself" Venom's voice was thoughtful. "I thought it might come in handy in case you needed a break from The Lands Between or This World ?"
My eyes widened even further. "I thought it was lost when we lost our inventory?"
"Nope," Venom confirmed. "I just didn't tell you so you wouldn't have more things to worry about"
"Well, I'll be," I muttered, surprised and impressed. "Guess we're going to another world again."
"Konohagakure... That's the Hidden Leaf Village from Naruto, isn't it?" I mumbled to myself, recalling the details of the anime world. "Looks like they could use some help."
Venom's voice buzzed with excitement, "Hell yeah! We're gonna be ninjas!"
I chuckled at his enthusiasm. "Ninjas, huh? Sounds like an adventure." I paused, considering the implications. "But it's also a world of powerful ninjas and dangerous creatures. We need to be careful."
Venom's tone turned serious, "Don't worry, partner. We'll be fine. We've faced worse, remember?"
He was right. We'd faced giants, dragons, and all sorts of monsters. A world of ninjas, while different, couldn't be that much worse, right? Besides, the reward was an Artificial Sharingan. That was something straight out of the Uchiha clan's arsenal, and it could be incredibly powerful.
"Alright," I decided, a grin spreading across my face. "But we got to clear up thing's first around here."
"But, Oliver", Venom Pouted, "We can be ninja nows"
"No but", I replied. "I'd rather be as leveled up as possible and I'm sure my clone probably did some training as well. Plus I want to clear up some things with the Loki Famila then try to fight Godrick."
"Ugh, Fine partner but you're so boring", Venom said upset.
I just chuckled at him, as I went through my morning routine. Dismissing my clone, I regained a lock of my hair and absorbed his memories. "Damn," I muttered, impressed. "Looks like the Clone and Nicole have been busy."
Venom puffed up with pride, "Hell yeah, they've been kicking ass!"
"And expanding our army," I added, raising an eyebrow. "Five hundred ex-Godrick soldiers? Before we barely had Seventy capable Soldiers"
"A testament of how drained people are with the current system. They'd rather trust us than keep going on." Venom retorted.
"Fair enough," I conceded. "So, we're about finished clearing out the West Peninsula now, huh? With our troops are taking out any outpost of Godrick's Soldiers in"
"Makes sense," Venom quipped. "In case extra soldiers joined in the fight, better to catch off all supplies and any surprise attacks.
I chuckled, imagining Nicole leading the charge, her strategic mind working overtime. "And Yura joined us? Nice, sucks Nicole and my Clone got attacked by the bloody fingers. But it is always good to have another seasoned warrior on our side."
"Yeah, he's a bit grumpy, but he knows his stuff," Venom agreed.
"Three captains, each with their own patrol routes." I mused, impressed with the organizational structure they'd established. "Truly Nicole has been a lifesaver getting things up in running at Castle Morne. Going as far to establish farms and clean water for people will go a long way."
"She's a natural," Venom purred. "Edgar has also been helpful with those soldiers. Training them into shape between patrols."
"True," I acknowledged. "We've got a real fighting force now." I paused, a thoughtful look crossing my face. "Maybe taking over Godrick's castle myself would be a good way to thank Nicole."
Venom chuckled, "That's the spirit! And hey, maybe we'll find some cool loot in there too."
"Always thinking about the loot," I teased, but I couldn't deny the appeal of a good treasure hunt. Plus, the thought of facing Godrick alone was an exciting challenge, but one I was ready for. Plus I get my revenge for my people he did experiments with,
Venom purred in agreement in my head as I finished going through memories. Only thing of note left was some guy named Kennith Heights claiming to be the rightful ruler of Limegrave. Gave us some interesting information about Godrick and how he survived so fair. We also left him the Fort in Mistwood in exchange for allowing our soldiers to live there.
Again Nicole and my clone are doing more work than I have been. Which sucks on Nicole's part but once I can summon more clones I should be able to take a lot of pressure off her.
I walked out of my room, my mind still processing the unexpected encounter with Ais. I needed to talk to Hestia and the others, to fill them in on what had happened and discuss our next steps.
But as I made my way through the common area of the Familia home, a familiar voice stopped me in my tracks.
"Oliver," Ais's voice called out, her tone hesitant. "Can we talk?"
I turned to see her standing near the doorway, her expression uncertain. "Sure," I replied, my curiosity piqued. "What's up?"
"I also wanted to thank you," she continued, her voice barely above a whisper. "For helping Bell, for being there for him."
"He's my friend," I said simply. "I'd do the same for anyone in the Familia."
She nodded, a small smile gracing her lips. "I know," she said. "That's why I'm glad you're here, Oliver."
Warmth spread through my chest at her words. It was good to know that at least one person in the Loki Familia truly appreciates my presence.
"Well, I should get going," I said, remembering my original intention. "I need to talk to Hestia."
"Of course," she replied, stepping aside. "I'll see you later, Oliver."
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Well, that was unexpected," I muttered to myself.
"Unexpected, but not unpleasant," Venom added. "She's not so bad, for a stuck-up princess."
"Hey, be nice," I chided him. "She was just trying to be a good friend."
"Yeah, yeah," Venom grumbled. "So, what's next on the agenda, boss?"
"First things first," I declared, my voice firm. "We need to talk to Hestia and the others."
I made my way towards Hestia's room, but as I approached, I could hear her soft snores from behind the door. Bell and Lily were likely still asleep as well. Deciding not to disturb them, I changed course.
"Miach might have some advice," I mused aloud. "And it'll give Hestia and the others time to wake up."
With that, I headed out of the Familia home, towards the Miach Familia's clinic.
As I walked through the bustling streets of Orario, my mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. The encounter with Ais, the looming threat of Godrick, and the ever-present responsibility of leading my growing army in the Lands Between—it was all a lot to handle.
Venom's voice echoed in my head, a mix of excitement and concern. "Hey, at least we're not bored," he quipped, trying to lighten the mood.
"Yeah," I responded, forcing a smile. "True."
I pushed aside my worries and focused on the task at hand: getting to Miach's clinic. Miach was a knowledgeable and experienced healer, and I hoped he could offer some insight into my current situation.
As I approached the clinic, I noticed a small group of people milling about outside. Taking a deep breath, I stepped inside, the scent of herbs and potions washing over me.
"Welcome to the Miach Familia clinic," a gentle voice greeted me. I turned to see a young woman with short brown hair and kind eyes. "How can I help you?"
"I'm looking for Miach," I replied. "Is he available?"
"I'll check," she said with a warm smile. "Please, have a seat."
Moments later, a tall, lanky man with a friendly demeanor emerged from the back room. "Oliver," he greeted me, his voice laced with surprise. "What brings you here?"
"Miach," I returned the greeting, relieved to see him. "I have something for you."
As we moved to a private room, I pulled out a bag filled with various monster drops from the Lands Between. "These might be useful for your potions," I explained. "Consider it thanks for all the times you've helped me out."
Miach's eyes widened in surprise as he examined the contents. "These are incredibly rare!" he exclaimed. "Oliver, this is too much."
I chuckled, "It's the least I can do. You and your Familia have always been there for me, even when I was...out of it."
Miach thanked me profusely, promising to put the drops to good use. As we delved deeper into conversation, I learned about the financial struggles the Miach Familia was facing. Without hesitation, I offered to provide them with more monster drops, free of charge, to help them create potent potions and alleviate their debts.
It was the least I could do for a friend.
Miach's gratitude was heartfelt, and as we spoke, I couldn't help but notice the young woman from earlier – Naaza, as Miach introduced her – seemed uncomfortable. Her posture was stiff, and she avoided my gaze.
"Something's off," Venom noted, his voice laced with suspicion.
I nodded in agreement. "Naaza," I addressed her gently, "is everything alright?"
Her eyes flashed with a hint of anger before she quickly schooled her expression. "I'm fine," she retorted, a slight edge to her voice.
Miach sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "Naaza's been under a lot of stress lately," he explained, his voice laced with concern. "We've had some...financial difficulties."
He went on to explain how they had to take out a loan to cover the cost of Naaza's prosthetic arm. She had lost her arm in a dungeon while gathering materials to help the Familia, and the other members had left due to the overwhelming debt they owed to another Familia for the prosthetic.
My heart ached for them both. Naaza's anger was born from guilt and worry, and Miach's from helplessness and concern for his friend. I understood her pain all too well, the feeling of being broken, incomplete.
"It's good that you're willing to help them, partner," Venom said, his voice softer than usual.
I nodded silently, my resolve firm. "Naaza," I said, my voice gentle but firm, "come with me."
I led her to a quieter corner of the clinic, away from prying eyes. "I know about your arm," I said, my gaze meeting hers. "I can help."
Her eyes widened in surprise, "How... How did you know?"
"I can sense it," I explained, my voice soft. "It's not... real."
Tears welled up in her eyes, and she finally broke down, confessing how she'd lost her arm and the burden of guilt she'd carried ever since.
Gently, I reached out and placed my hand on her shoulder. "Naaza, you don't have to carry this burden alone," I reassured her. "Let me help you."
With her hesitant consent, Naaza removed her prosthetic arm, revealing the stump where her limb once was. I channeled my magic, the warmth spreading through her and knitting flesh and bone where metal had been. It was a delicate process, but with my increased control, it was surprisingly smooth.
When I was done, Naaza stared at her newly restored arm, tears streaming down her face. "It's... it's a miracle," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.
I smiled warmly. "It's not a miracle, Naaza. It's just what friends do for each other."
Miach, who had been watching the exchange with a mixture of awe and gratitude, stepped forward. "Oliver," he began, his voice choked with emotion, "I don't know how to thank you."
"You don't have to," I assured him. "Naaza and you have both helped me more than I can repay. This is just a small way of showing my appreciation."
Naaza, still overwhelmed by the return of her arm, finally found her voice. "Thank you, Oliver," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "I... I don't know what to say."
"You don't have to say anything," I replied, smiling warmly. "Just promise me you'll take care of yourself, and Miach." Then I remembered the prosthetic, "Naaza, would it be alright if I kept your old arm? I could give you guys more monster drops in exchange for it?"
She looked surprised for a moment, then nodded. "Of course, Oliver. It's yours if you want it."
I spent the rest of the afternoon with Miach and Naaza, catching up and discussing the future of the Miach Familia. With Naaza's arm restored, they were finally able to look forward with hope.
As the sun began to set, I knew it was time to head back to the Hestia Familia home within the Hephaestus estate. But before I left, I made Miach and Naaza promise to call on me if they ever needed anything.
"We will," Miach assured me, his voice filled with gratitude. "And Oliver, thank you again. You've given us a new lease on life."
I smiled. "It was my pleasure," I replied. "I'm just glad I could help."
As I walked away from the clinic, I couldn't shake the feeling that this was just the beginning. There were still many challenges ahead, both in Orario and the Lands Between. But for now, I was content to bask in the warmth of friendship and the satisfaction of knowing that I had made a difference in the lives of others.ll.
As I approached the Hephaestus home, my thoughts were still with Miach and Naaza, a warmth spreading through me at the thought of their renewed hope. But the moment was broken as a towering figure stepped out from the shadows, blocking my path. Ottar, the stoic and powerful captain of the Loki Familia, stood before me, his presence as imposing as ever.
"Oliver," his deep voice rumbled, "Lady Freya requests your presence."
My heart pounded against my ribs. Freya? The Goddess of Beauty, known for her capricious nature and overwhelming power? A cold shiver ran down my spine. Why would she want to see me?
"Now?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
"Yes," Ottar replied, his expression unwavering. "She awaits you."
Panic surged through me. I couldn't go with him, not now. I had too much to do, too much to prepare for. With a burst of adrenaline, I turned and bolted, pushing my speed to its limits.
But Ottar was faster. With a speed that defied his size, he appeared before me, his hand outstretched. I felt a tug at my shoulder, and then the world spun as I was lifted off my feet.
"You cannot run from Freya, boy," Ottar's voice boomed, his grip firm but not painful.
Desperation clawed at me. I had to find a way out of this. My eyes darted around, searching for an escape, any escape. Then, my gaze fell on the prosthetic arm I was still carrying, Naaza's arm.
Without hesitation, I shoved the arm into Venom's waiting maw within my mindscape. "Keep this safe," I commanded him urgently. "And get ready, we might need to fight our way out of this."
Venom, ever reliable, grumbled but complied. "Fine, but you owe me for this."
With the arm secure, I turned my attention back to Ottar, my heart pounding but my resolve steeled. If Freya wanted to see me, she would have to wait until I was ready. And I wasn't ready yet.
"Ottar," I managed, my voice strained, "I understand Lady Freya's summons, but I must speak with Hestia first."
His grip tightened slightly, "That will not be possible."
Panic flared. I couldn't let Freya control my actions, not when so much was at stake. With a surge of adrenaline, I twisted, trying to break Ottar's hold. But his strength was overwhelming. I was a minnow in the grasp of a leviathan.
"You cannot escape," Ottar's voice was a rumble that seemed to shake my very bones. "Lady Freya's will be done."
I struggled, but it was futile. Ottar effortlessly lifted me, his strides carrying us swiftly through the city towards the imposing tower that housed Freya's Familia. My heart hammered in my chest, a cold dread settling in its place. This was not how I'd envisioned my day going.
Venom's voice was a low hiss in my mind, "Think, Oliver, think! There has to be a way out of this."
But with Ottar's iron grip and Freya's looming presence, escape seemed impossible. I could only hope that whatever the goddess wanted wouldn't jeopardize my mission or endanger my Familia.
As we approached Freya's tower, a sense of foreboding washed over me. The structure itself seemed to exude an aura of power and mystery, its towering height casting a long shadow over the surrounding city. The air itself felt heavy, thick with anticipation and an undercurrent of something I couldn't quite name.
Ottar's grip remained firm but not unkind as he carried me through the grand entrance, his presence a silent reassurance that I wouldn't be harmed, at least not physically. The interior of the tower was just as impressive as its exterior, adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering tapestries that spoke of wealth and extravagance.
We were led through a maze of hallways, each turn adding to my unease. Finally, we reached a set of ornate double doors. Ottar paused, his hand hovering over the gilded handles.
"Remember," he rumbled, his voice low, "show respect. Lady Freya is not to be trifled with."
I nodded, my throat dry. I may not have been ready for this encounter, but I wasn't foolish enough to disrespect a goddess, especially one as powerful as Freya.
With a deep breath, I straightened my posture and prepared to face the unknown. Ottar pushed open the doors, and I stepped into the room beyond, my heart pounding like a war drum.
The room was bathed in a soft, ethereal glow, emanating from what seemed like countless candles scattered around the opulent space. Rich fabrics draped the walls, and the air was heavy with the scent of exotic incense. At the far end of the room, on a raised platform, sat a figure that commanded attention without even trying.
Freya, the Goddess of Beauty, was as breathtaking as the rumors had painted her. Her silver hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of moonlight, and her eyes, a piercing shade of gold, seemed to see into the depths of one's soul. She was clad in a flowing gown that shimmered with an otherworldly luminescence, and every movement she made was imbued with an effortless grace.
Beside her stood a tall, dark-haired man with an air of quiet intensity. He was unmistakably Ottar, Freya's most loyal and powerful follower. His presence alone was enough to make the room feel smaller, his aura radiating strength and unwavering devotion.
Freya's gaze fell upon me, and I felt a jolt of electricity course through my body. Her lips curved into a smile that was both alluring and unnerving. "Welcome, Oliver," she purred, her voice like silk. "I've been waiting for you."
I swallowed hard, my nervousness barely contained. "Lady Freya," I bowed my head respectfully, "I am honored by your summons."
"No need for formalities," she waved a dismissive hand. "Come, sit. Let us talk."
My eyes met Ottar's, and he nodded almost imperceptibly, a silent command to obey. With trepidation, I approached the platform and took a seat opposite Freya, my every sense on high alert. The room was silent, the only sound the gentle crackle of the candles and the soft rhythm of Freya's breathing.
"I've heard much about you, Oliver," Freya began, her voice a hypnotic melody. "You're quite the anomaly, aren't you?"
I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, unsure how to respond. "I... I don't know what you mean, Lady Freya," I stammered.
She chuckled, a sound that was both beautiful and chilling. "Oh, you know exactly what I mean," she purred. "A human with the power to rival even the gods... It's quite intriguing, wouldn't you agree?"
I remained silent, my mind racing. What did she know? How much had she seen?
"Don't be afraid, Oliver," Freya's voice softened. "I'm not here to harm you. In fact, I'm quite... fascinated by you."
Her words sent a shiver down my spine. There was something predatory in her gaze, a hunger that made me want to flee. But I was trapped, both by Ottar's presence and by the invisible chains of her divine power.
"Don't be afraid, Oliver," Freya's voice softened. "I'm not here to harm you. In fact, I'm quite… fascinated by you."
Her words sent a shiver down my spine. There was something predatory in her gaze, a hunger that made me want to flee. But I was trapped, both by Ottar's presence and by the invisible chains of her divine power.
Freya leaned forward, her golden eyes gleaming with an intensity that made me squirm. "I know you're not from this world, Oliver," she purred, her voice a hypnotic melody. "I know about the power you wield, the strange magic that allows you to grow stronger with every feat you accomplish."
My breath hitched. How did she know? Was there nothing she didn't see?
"Shit," Venom hissed, his voice laced with alarm. "She knows! How does she know?!"
I felt a cold sweat break out on my forehead. "I... I don't know what you're talking about," I stammered, my voice barely a whisper.
Freya chuckled, a sound that was both beautiful and chilling. "Oh, don't play coy with me, Oliver," she said, her voice taking on a playful edge. "I can hear your little friend, you know."
My blood ran cold. She could hear Venom?
"She can hear me?!" Venom squawked, his voice laced with disbelief.
Freya's smile widened. "Indeed, I can," she confirmed, her gaze unwavering. "And he's quite the amusing companion, I must say."
I was speechless. My mind was reeling, trying to process this new information. Freya knew my secret, she knew about Venom, she knew about my powers... What else did she know?
"I must admit," Freya continued, her voice taking on a contemplative tone, "I was initially interested in Bell Cranel. His soul, while not as pure as yours, is constantly changing and growing stronger. And he seems to be immune to my charm, which is... intriguing."
My heart sank. Bell? Was Freya interested in him?
"But then you arrived," she continued, her gaze returning to me, "and you captivated me even more. Your power, your potential, your... uniqueness. It's all so very... alluring."
Her words sent a shiver down my spine. I knew I was in dangerous territory now. Freya was known for her possessiveness, and I had no doubt that she would do anything to claim what she desired.
"Lady Freya," I began, my voice carefully neutral, "I appreciate your interest, but I'm not sure what you mean by 'alluring.' I'm just a simple adventurer trying to make my way in this world."
A knowing smile played on her lips. "A simple adventurer? Oh, Oliver, you are anything but simple.Your soul shines with a brilliance that few can match."
She paused, her gaze piercing. "I can offer you power, Oliver," she continued, her voice a seductive whisper. "Power beyond your wildest dreams. Power that could make you a god among men."
I felt my heart skip a beat. Power. It was a tempting offer, especially for someone like me, who had always craved strength and control. But I knew that Freya's power came with a price, and that price was often one's freedom.
"I appreciate the offer, Lady Freya," I replied, choosing my words carefully, "but I'm content with the power I have. And I value my freedom more than anything."
A flicker of disappointment crossed her features, but it was quickly replaced by a look of amusement. "Such a defiant little mortal," she mused, her voice laced with a hint of challenge. "But I admire your spirit. It's refreshing."
She leaned back in her chair, her gaze thoughtful. "Very well, Oliver," she said finally. "I won't force you to do anything you don't want to do. But remember, my offer always stands."
I nodded, relieved but still wary. I knew that Freya wouldn't give up so easily. She was a goddess, after all, and she was used to getting what she wanted.
"For now," she continued, "I simply want to observe you. To see how you navigate this world, and the others that you visit."
"Others?" I echoed, my brow furrowing.
"Oh yes," Freya purred. "I know about your little trips to other worlds. It's quite impressive, the way you can traverse the boundaries of reality."
I felt a cold shiver run down my spine. There was nothing she didn't know.
"Don't worry, Oliver," she said, sensing my unease. "I won't interfere. For now."
Her words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken threats. I knew that I was walking a tightrope, and one wrong move could send me plummeting into the abyss.
But I also knew that I couldn't let fear control me. I had to stay true to myself, to my friends, and to my mission.
"Thank you, Lady Freya," I said, my voice steady. "I appreciate your understanding."
She smiled, a enigmatic expression on her face. "We'll meet again, Oliver," she promised. "And when we do, I hope you'll be ready to embrace your destiny."
With that, she rose to her feet, signaling the end of the audience. Ottar escorted me out of the room, his silence a stark contrast to Freya's alluring words. As we left the tower, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had just stepped into a game far more dangerous than any I had encountered before.
And as I made my way back to the Hestia Familia home, I knew that my life would never be the same again.
Bursting back through the doors of the Hestia Familia home, I nearly collided with Bell, who was grumbling his way towards the kitchen.
"Watch it!" he exclaimed, his tone sharp.
"Sorry, Bell," I panted, still catching my breath from the hurried return. "I didn't see you there."
Lily, ever the observant one, piped up from behind Bell, "You seem flustered, Oliver. Is everything alright?"
I forced a smile, trying to mask my unease. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just had a... unexpected encounter."
Bell's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "With who?"
Before I could respond, Hestia emerged from her room, her expression a mix of concern and relief. "Oliver, you're back!" she exclaimed, rushing towards me. "We were worried."
"I'm fine, Hestia," I reassured her, giving her a quick hug. "I just had a little detour."
Bell crossed his arms, his jealousy evident. "A detour? At this hour?"
Hestia shot him a warning look. "Bell, be polite. Oliver doesn't need to explain himself to you."
She turned to me, her voice gentle. "Come, Oliver," she said, leading me to the living area. "Tell me what happened."
As I recounted my meeting with Freya, Hestia's expression grew increasingly serious. The revelation of my otherworldly origins and powers clearly unsettled her, but she listened patiently, her trust in me unwavering.
"This is dangerous, Oliver," she said once I'd finished, her voice laced with worry. "Freya is a powerful goddess, and her interest in you could bring unwanted attention to our Familia."
I nodded, my stomach churning with anxiety. "I know," I admitted. "But I don't know what to do."
Hestia placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "We'll figure this out together," she assured me. "As a Familia."
Her words brought a sense of calm, a reminder that I wasn't alone in this. I had people who cared about me, who would stand by me no matter what.
"Thank you, Hestia," I said, my voice thick with gratitude.
"Now," she said, a determined glint in her eyes, "let's go update your status. We have a lot to discuss."
With a renewed sense of purpose, I followed Hestia to the guild, ready to face whatever the future held, together.
"Now," she said, a determined glint in her eyes, "let's get your status updated. We have a lot to discuss."
With a renewed sense of purpose, I followed Hestia back to the apartment. The weight of Freya's attention and the impending journey to Konohagakure pressed heavily on my mind, but Hestia's unwavering support offered a small beacon of comfort.
Back in the apartment, Hestia retrieved a small, sharp needle and pricked my finger, drawing a drop of blood. The crimson droplet shimmered as it fell onto the symbol of Hestia Familia etched into the floor, the ancient magic reacting to my Falna. Symbols and numbers flickered into existence, a visual representation of my abilities and growth.
Hestia's eyes widened as she read the results. Even Bell and Lily, who had been watching curiously, gasped.
"Remarkable," Hestia breathed, her voice filled with awe and pride. "Your progress is... extraordinary, Oliver."
I couldn't suppress a relieved smile. Despite the looming threat of Freya and the dangers of Konohagakure, I felt a sense of accomplishment. I had come a long way, and I was determined to continue growing stronger, for myself and for my Familia.
Falna Status
Name: Oliver Kanto
Level: 2
Strength: G 290
Endurance: ∞
Dexterity: F 350
Agility: D 500
Magic: ∞
Development Abilities:
Luck(C+)Heir of Wukong:(B)Venom:(B)Observation Haki(A)Stone Monkey (C)The Force(B)Form III:Soresu(B)Defensive Form
Skills:
Skill - Skill FusionSuper Learning(C)Hud(C) Water Rock Smashing Fist (A)
Magic:
GeoKinesis(Earth Bending)(A)The ability to animate, manipulate and rapidly grow plant-life.The ability to manipulate rock, sediment, stone, mud and clay.Can Make a Magnetic Force Field Can control metalAuraAlways ActiveWhen using Magic/Ki./Chakra Attacks, the amount used is visibleCan cause ground to breakCan cause shakingCan cause Wind blowingIt's more to show off how strong his magic is then anything usefulRika(S)Force FieldsCan Block Most thingsCost NothingIf User isn't near will last 10 seconds
As the glow from the Falna update faded, Hestia turned to me, her expression serious. "Now," she said, her voice firm, "let's talk about your next steps. We need a plan."
And as we gathered around the table, the warmth and support of my Familia surrounding me, I knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, we would face them together.
As the evening approached, we made our way to the Hostess of Fertility, the warm glow of the tavern a welcome respite from the day's anxieties. Syr, the ever-gracious hostess, greeted us with a warm smile and a hearty meal. The familiar atmosphere, the camaraderie of my Familia, and the simple pleasure of good food and company soothed my frayed nerves.
As the night wore on, a sense of peace settled over me. I knew that the challenges ahead were daunting, but I also knew that I wasn't alone. With the support of my Familia and the strength I had gained, I was ready to face whatever the future held. And as I drifted off to sleep that night, surrounded by the warmth of my Familia, I felt a sense of hope that had been absent for far too long.
Activating the Site of Grace, I stepped through the shimmering portal, leaving behind the warmth and familiarity of the Hestia Familia home and stepping back into the untamed wilderness of the Lands Between.
The air was crisp and cool, the scent of pine and damp earth a stark contrast to the perfumed air of Freya's chambers. I took a deep breath, the weight of Orario's troubles momentarily lifted. Here, in this shattered world, I had a purpose, a mission. And perhaps, for a while, I could forget the watchful gaze of a goddess and the uncertainty of my future.