Lunafama Shadow Guardian

Aeka's sleeping draught proved to be exceptionally potent. Throughout the journey back to Châteauclair, Crown Princess Kanami, Prince Ocelot, and Prince Rudy remained deeply unconscious, their expressions betraying no awareness of their predicament. Vergil, with his ever-calm demeanor, directed the convoy straight to Châteauclair, the heart of the Britalienne Empire.

As the sun dipped toward the horizon, casting a golden glow over the imperial palace, the convoy arrived at the grand gates. Guards immediately recognized Vergil and stepped aside, granting him swift entry. His reputation preceded him, and no questions were asked.

Vergil, carrying the slumbering princes with practiced ease, and Freya, carefully holding the unconscious Crown Princess, made their way through the gilded halls of the palace. They arrived at a private chamber where Empress Elisa II awaited them, her regal presence commanding even in the intimate setting.

Vergil placed the unconscious Prince Ocelot and Prince Rudy on the floor in a respectful manner, while Freya gently laid the Crown Princess beside them. Standing tall, Vergil gave a slight bow as Empress Elisa II regarded her captives with a pleased smile.

"Well done, Lord Vergil," the Empress said, her voice soft but laced with authority. "It seems your mission has been executed flawlessly."

Freya stepped forward, adding with a confident tone, "This success was made possible through the coordination of everyone involved, particularly Aeka and your five adopted daughters."

As if on cue, Aeka entered the room alongside Mina and Vergil's other four adopted daughters. They stood in silence, their composed expressions reflecting their discipline and pride.

Empress Elisa II turned her attention to Vergil, her sharp eyes assessing him. "Lord Vergil, your prowess as an assassin and strategist is unmatched. However, it is time you extend your legacy beyond your family. The Britalienne Empire requires a dedicated Shadow Corps, protectors who will operate from the shadows to ensure the empire's stability."

Vergil folded his arms, his white hair catching the dim light. "I do not oppose the idea, Your Majesty, but such an undertaking requires careful planning. A facility, a location that does not raise suspicion, and a clear set of rules for recruitment and training will be necessary."

Freya, standing beside him, offered a suggestion. "What if we establish a hidden training ground? A place that appears ordinary but serves as a covert hub for developing young assassins. Trainees could be allowed limited contact with the outside world, but under strict conditions to prevent them from revealing their purpose or training."

Aeka nodded in agreement. "Such measures would ensure loyalty and secrecy. We could also implement a system where only those with exceptional potential are chosen, creating an elite force from the start."

The Empress seemed pleased by their ideas and smiled approvingly. "Very well, Lord Vergil. I will grant you ample time to devise a proper plan. I will personally oversee the selection of recruits, but you must provide me with a list of criteria for eligibility."

Vergil inclined his head. "As you command, Your Majesty. I will draft the requirements and begin preparations immediately."

As the conversation neared its conclusion, Vergil's gaze shifted to the unconscious princes. His voice carried a subtle edge of curiosity. "Your Majesty, before I take my leave, may I request the weapons carried by Prince Ocelot and Prince Rudy? Such items would be wasted in their hands now."

Empress Elisa II considered his request for a moment before nodding. "Granted. They no longer have use for such tools. Take them, Lord Vergil, and let them serve a greater purpose."

Vergil bowed deeply. "My thanks, Your Majesty.

With the audience concluded, Vergil requested permission to withdraw. The Empress dismissed him with a wave, her mind already turning to the next phase of her plans. Vergil, accompanied by Aeka, Freya, and his daughters, exited the chamber and began their journey back to Avalorne.

The journey from Châteauclair to Avalorne took just over an hour, the swift pace reflecting the eagerness of the group to return home. As the carriage rolled into the peaceful town, the familiar sights and sounds of Avalorne welcomed them with open arms. The twilight sky painted the cobblestone streets in shades of orange and gold, adding to the charm of the small, quiet town.

Before heading to the mansion, Vergil, along with Freya, Aeka, and his five adopted daughters, decided to stop by a local inn for dinner. The inn, a modest yet warm establishment, exuded a comforting atmosphere, the scent of freshly baked bread and stewed meat wafting through the air.

As they settled at a corner table, the innkeeper approached with a welcoming smile, recognizing Vergil immediately. "Lord of Avalorne! It has been far too long. Your presence graces my humble inn once again."

Vergil offered a polite nod. "It's good to be back. We've just returned from a special task on behalf of Empress Elisa II."

The innkeeper's eyes widened with curiosity and concern. "Her Majesty? Is she well?"

Vergil replied calmly, "The Empress is in excellent health. She looks as strong and vibrant as ever."

Hearing this, the innkeeper's face lit up with relief. "That is wonderful to hear. Her Majesty's well-being is a blessing for the empire."

The conversation flowed briefly before the innkeeper excused himself to prepare their meal.

As the dishes arrived, the family relished every bite. The flavors of Avalorne's cuisine felt like a warm embrace, especially after their recent endeavors. Aria, the middle of Vergil's adopted daughters, couldn't contain her delight. "I've missed Avalorne's food so much. No other place has flavors like this."

Her comment brought smiles all around. Even Aeka, who rarely expressed such sentiments, nodded in agreement, savoring a spoonful of stew. The atmosphere was light, a stark contrast to the tense missions they had completed just days prior.

After the meal, the wife of innkeeper approached, curious about Vergil's long absence. "It's been a while since your clinic has opened its doors, Lord Vergil. The people of Avalorne have missed you. Where have you been, if I may ask?"

Vergil leaned back slightly, his blue eyes calm but firm. "My family and I were away on a special mission for the Empress. It required our full attention."

The innkeeper wife nodded in understanding, not pressing further. "We are glad you've returned safely. Your presence brings a sense of security to this town."

Vergil offered a small smile. "Thank you. I plan to reopen the clinic soon. Avalorne is home, after all."

After finishing their meal, Vergil placed several gold coins on the table—far more than the meal required. The innkeeper tried to refuse the excess, but Vergil simply said, "Consider it a thank you for keeping this place as welcoming as ever."

The family left the inn and made their way back to the mansion under the soft glow of lanterns lining Avalorne's streets. As they arrived at the familiar gates of their home, a sense of peace washed over them.

Upon arriving at the mansion, Vergil's five adopted daughters immediately scattered in search of their beloved pets. The lively sound of rustling and cheerful chatter filled the air as they reunited with their animal companions. Meanwhile, a white, five-tailed fox darted through the mansion's garden, bounding straight toward Freya. The creature leapt into her arms, nuzzling her affectionately, its silken fur glowing faintly under the dim light. Freya cradled the fox, smiling warmly as it wriggled playfully in her grasp.

Vergil watched the scene with a resigned sigh, crossing his arms as if to mask his amusement. "That fox is going to be spoiled beyond saving," he muttered.

Aeka, standing beside him, chuckled softly. "And whose fault would that be?"

Vergil only shook his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips. Turning to his daughters, he gave a sharp but gentle command. "Go on, all of you—clean up and get some rest. You've earned it."

Aeka added, her tone light yet firm, "That goes for you too, Big Brother. You're no good to anyone if you collapse from exhaustion."

Taking Aeka's words to heart, Vergil headed to the bathhouse. The warm water offered a brief respite from the burdens of his missions. He let out a deep breath, the steam curling around him as he sank into the water. His sharp mind, always calculating and observing, allowed itself a rare moment of peace.

Once cleansed and refreshed, Vergil returned to his room. The soft sheets of his bed and the familiar quiet of the mansion lulled him into a deep sleep the moment he lay down.

Vergil's rest was short-lived. He opened his eyes, finding himself in an ethereal, moonlit realm. The air shimmered with silvery hues, and before him stood Goddess of Lunafama, the Guardian of Lunafama World. Her serene smile and radiant presence filled the space, yet her voice was calm and warm as she spoke.

"I've been watching your progress, Vergil," she said. "You've exceeded my expectations, even managing to deceive me with your brother, Shadow."

Vergil inclined his head respectfully, his expression composed. "Shadow never meant to deceive you, Goddess. Along with Dante, who accompanied me on a previous mission, we're quadruplet. Though only two of us answered your summons this time, the third... he has his reasons for staying behind. Beside i never told you anything about my family"

The Goddess chuckled softly, her silver eyes glimmering with mirth. "I see. Your family's bond is as intriguing as your methods."

Vergil, his tone casual yet respectful, replied, "Perhaps it is our shared understanding of the shadows that binds us. Still, i've found a new home here in your world, and I've no intention of leaving. My family and I will continue to serve your purpose and The Empress in Lunafama."

The Goddess's gaze softened. "You've done well, Vergil, but your work is far from over. It is time for you to expand your secret network beyond the Britalienne Empire—into other empires and kingdoms. The influence you build will serve to protect the balance of this world."

Vergil nodded thoughtfully. "Freya has already suggested creating a hidden training ground for young assassins. A place where they can learn, but remain connected to their lives outside. I'm considering the possibilities."

Lunafama tilted her head slightly, her smile widening. "A wise plan. And that silver-haired girl who follows you—Aeka, I believe—she is quite remarkable. Her strength rivals even my own."

Vergil smirked faintly, his pride evident. "She's my youngest sister. Everything she knows, I taught her."

The Goddess let out a small laugh, her voice ringing like a gentle melody. "That explains her sharp tactics. You've done well, Vergil."

Raising a hand, Lunafama Goddess divine light enveloped the space. "For your efforts, I bestow my blessing upon your family. Freya and your daughters will succeed in even the most impossible tasks. Whatever obstacles they face, they will overcome them."

Vergil bowed his head deeply. "Thank you, Goddess. Your trust is not misplaced."

Exhausted from the long journey, Freya entered her room, her white-tailed fox curling up at the foot of her bed. She collapsed onto the mattress, her mind clouded by fatigue, and soon drifted into a deep sleep.

When she opened her eyes again, she found herself in a cold, dimly lit chamber that reeked of ancient power. The air was heavy, oppressive, as though it carried the weight of millennia. Surrounding her were three colossal prison cells, their towering iron bars inscribed with glowing runes. Each gate bore a strange talisman—a paper seal marked with incomprehensible symbols pulsing faintly with energy.

Freya's gaze darted around in confusion. Where am I? she thought.

Then, a deep voice rumbled from one of the cells, shaking the ground beneath her feet.

"Your up coming husband, Vergil, is meeting with Guardian Goddess of this world. And you..." The voice paused, almost teasingly. "You are here, Freya Ragnaros."

Before Freya could respond, a second voice—darker and colder—spoke from another cell.

"Tell me, girl. Are you his betrothed?"

Freya's cheeks flushed, and she instinctively took a defensive stance. "Who—what are you? And what do you want from me?"

The first voice let out a low, echoing laugh. "Do you not remember? You once vowed to tame us. And now, here you are."

Freya froze, her memories racing. Then it struck her—a promise she had made long ago during a her test with Shadow in Rite of Immortal. She had spoken with conviction, declaring that she would one day taming even the mightiest of dragon. But surely, this couldn't be...

Her eyes narrowed as she cautiously approached one of the cells. Peering through the bars, she saw a massive, unblinking eye staring back at her. Its iris was a brilliant gold, slit like that of a reptile. Freya's breath caught in her throat as realization dawned. "A... dragon?"

The voice rumbled again, this time tinged with amusement. "Not just any dragon. I am Luxarion, the Eternal Light."

Freya's gaze shifted to the cell beside Luxarion's, where she felt an overwhelming chill. From the darkness, she saw another eye—this one a deep crimson, radiating darkness.

"That one is Helios, the Immortal Darkness," Luxarion explained. "Beware his hunger. He wishes to devour you, but he is bound by the seal... for now."

Freya's instincts flared as Helios's gaze bore into her, cold and predatory. She could feel his restrained fury, a feral desire to consume her whole. Despite her training, a shiver ran down her spine.

Turning to the third cell, Freya found nothing but emptiness. The silence was unnerving, and she felt as though the void itself was staring back at her.

"And there," Luxarion continued, his tone lowering, "is Zerathul of the Void One. He slumbers for now, but do not let your guard down. Even silence can devour."

Freya's heart raced, but she forced herself to meet Luxarion's gaze. Unlike the others, his golden eye emanated warmth and serenity. His presence was oddly comforting, like a beacon in the oppressive chamber.

"Is this... the prison I vowed to tamed?" she whispered.

Luxarion chuckled, a sound like distant thunder. "Perhaps it is, or perhaps it is merely a vision—a reminder of the promise you made. Either way, this is only the beginning. Return for now, Freya Ragnaros. When the time comes, we shall speak again."

Freya's eyes snapped open, sunlight streaming through her window. She sat up abruptly, her breathing shallow, and looked around. Her fox was still curled up at the foot of her bed, undisturbed.

Touching her forehead, she muttered, "Luxarion, Helios, Zerathul... what was that place?"

The dream—or vision—felt unnervingly real. But as the warmth of the morning seeped into her room, Freya resolved to push the memory aside for now. There would be time to unravel its meaning later.

For now, there was work to do.