As the shimmering portal swung open, Santaliel stepped forth and emerged onto the majestic grounds of Mount Lyrota,a breathtaking destination within the Infinity Realm. This majestic place was adorned with a palette of gold and white. The landscape was further mesmerized by shimmering solid gold and radiant white marbles with slender pillars crafted from gleaming silver stones.
Alongside the shimmering landscape lies majestic Mansions, each tailored to the distinct essence and domain of various gods and goddesses. This divine residences reflects the unique characteristics, powers, and mythologies of their occupants.
In the Infinity Realm, a sacred domain where all divine beings dwell, a formidable barrier forged from celestial force protects and encloses this mystical world. Within the Infinity Realm, three echelons exist in harmony,Mount Olympus, the revered abode of the Divine gods
Mount Lyrota, the celestial haven of the Celestial gods
The Underworld, a realm where angels who have lost their aura and transformed into demons, alongside banished gods, reside in shadow.
At the heart of these three mounts lies Gaia's garden,The Heavenly Garden, a radiant source of celestial force and divine energy that nourishes and sustains each echelon, making it the epicenter of Divine and celestial energy within the Infinity Realm.
Beyond the Infinity Realm lies the Earthly Realm, a domain where humans devoid of both Celestial and divine force reside. To sustain and nurture this realm, the Celestial gods of Mount Lyrota are tasked to ensure the well-being and survival of humanity, by taking on various roles, each aligned with their unique celestial aura, thereby preserving the delicate balance of the Earthly Realm.
As Santaliel strolled along the heavenly path of Lyrota, he passed by a cluster of young gods and goddesses who whispered amongst themselves as he walked pass, although their voice were low,he was still able to hear them, their voices laced with ridicule.
"Look, it's the loser," one of them sneered. "I heard he failed the Celestial Exam three times."
Another chimed in, "He's over 5,000 years old and still hasn't discovered his Celestial Aura, what a shame." The group's mocking continued, "His Celestial Force is so weak that the only thing he can manage is creating low-grade portals and spells. He can't even refine a single Celestial item," another added, their scorn palpable.
"If not for his father's influence, he wouldn't be living among us gods," they concluded, their whispers trailing off. Santaliel's expression remained impassive, but his eyes betrayed a flicker of frustration as he walked passed the group, ignoring their mocking comments.
Santaliel approached a grand entrance, where a majestic golden gate stood tall, its surface adorned with intricate black ornaments that evoked the essence of warfare. This ancient gate, forged from a bygone era, was said to only be opened by members of the esteemed household of Santaliel's family. Yet, Santaliel's lack of Celestial Force rendered him the sole exception, unable to open the gate. Instead, he relied on his loyal personal assistant to help open the gate
"Welcome home, Master," Orly,a cat like creature with white thick plush fur resembling a clear winter sky, two curved horns which protrudes from it's forehead and red fiery eyes that burns with an intense piercing gaze that commands attention yet it's majestic presence tampered by an air of cuddly charm. The creature had a delicate almost translucent light blue wings sprout from it's back, it's light blue feathers shimmering like stained glass with a subtle sparkling dust lined at the wings edges. Despite it's cute appearance, the beast exudes a stoic calmness, with an expression of unyielding loyalty.
" Welcome home Master", Orly said with a bow as she had been waiting for Santaliel in front of the Mansion. she turned to the gate, her red eyes glowed and the majestic gate swung open revealing a breathtaking sight. The majestic abode named Elysium's Fury shined radiantly emanating an ethereal presence. The sprawling crystal-studded palace boasts towering spires and grand arches, it's walls and floors crafted from polished gold and silver.
Lush gardens, tended by divine nymphs, surrounds the Mansion, filled with rare gemstone-encrusted flowers and trees.
Santaliel walks past the ethereal garden and into the lavish halls, featuring intricate mosaics depicting his father's legendary conquests. Servants and maids, divine beings themselves,attends to every detail. The air is filled with sweet incense and the sent of ambrosia.
Santaliel looked at Orly who was trailing behind him and smiled warmly at her.
"Did anything of note occur during my absence?" Santaliel inquired. Orly's expression turned serious. "Nothing of great importance, Master, except the return of your Father"
Santaliel's gaze narrowed slightly. "So, nothing of importance," he repeated, his tone laced with sarcasm
" I do hope you take me with you next time you decide to leave the Mansion" Orly Said with a serious look
"You don't have to be so scary about it" Santaliel chuckles as he ruffles Orly's fur with his hands on her head, petting her
" Master, you know I dislike it when you do that" Orly complains, pouting making Santaliel chuckle even more
Their banter was interrupted by a voice calling out from above. Santaliel's and Orly's gaze lifted to find a stunning figure descending upon them.
His younger brother, Cupid, the god of love, flaunted his majestic wings, with snow-white feathers glistening in the light. His golden hair cascaded down his back, framing his soft cute face and piercing blue eyes that sparkled with excitement. Clad in a crimson tunic that accentuated his toned physique and defined abs, Cupid's radiant smile illuminated the surroundings.
"Brother, where have you been?" he asked, his voice infused with eagerness. "I've been searching everywhere for you!"
Santaliel winced, putting a finger in his ear. "I went out for a little stroll. Can you please stop yelling every time you see me? My ears hurt."
"I'm not yelling, you're just being mean because you can't comprehend my beauty." Cupid teased, His white wings fluttered as he struck a pose, his golden hair gleaming.
" Oh my,I'm so jealous" Santaliel shot back sarcastically.
" Tease me all you want but I know I'll always be your favorite brother" he said making Santaliel smile
" What are you doing here, aren't you supposed to be in your mansion " Santaliel asked
" I was bored so I came looking for you brother" Cupid responds, "Anyways Father has returned and has been asking for you"
Santaliel rubbed his hand through his white hair, his expression skeptical. " Tch, What does the old man want from me?"
Cupid shrugged nonchalantly. "How am I supposed to know? , He's been away for three years,Maybe he misses you." Cupid's words were laced with a hint of teasing.
"I'm sure he does, after all, you're his favorite."Eris, Santaliel's sister, emerged from behind, her pitch-black hair and red orbs a stark contrast to Cupid's radiant appearance. Her well-defined body seemed tense, her voice dripping with malice. "Hello, brother. Hope you had fun wherever you were, and you didn't infect the place with your hopelessness." Her sneer was palpable.
"Nice to see you too, Eris. Sorry I can't stay and chat, knowing how badly you missed me. I don't want to keep Father waiting, after all, I'm his favorite." Santaliel mocked,
He continued walking with Cupid and Orly, ignoring Eris's venomous remarks.
Eris muttered under her breath, "Let's see how long you can keep up with that attitude," her eyes narrowing as she watched Santaliel walk away.
"Eris is always so scary, I should find a chance to give her a shot of love," Cupid said, his voice laced with optimism.
"Good luck with that." Santaliel replied sarcastically. " What is she even doing here" Santaliel asks
" I don't know, Maybe father summoned her" Cupid replied, unsure
Cupid continued to follow Santaliel through the grand halls of the mansion until they reached the entrance to their father's chambers. "I'll stop here, I don't want to interrupt your alone time with Dad," Cupid said, his smile tinged with nervousness. As he turned to leave
"Scardy cat" Santaliel teased
"Easy for you to say, he doesn't have a grudge against you. Plus you don't have wings that he can rip off easily. He's the God of War, scary and ruthless. Besides, you're the only one he treats with so much love, so I'm not going to push my luck." Cupid defends
" Maybe it's because I don't go around, shooting love arrows to everyone In mount Lyrota " Santaliel teased
" They were all filled with hatred, I had to do something to help, it caused me a gruesome pain of getting my wings pulled out by dad but it was still worth it, even if it took 200 years to grow back. My only regret was not shooting our siblings" Cupid defends
" That would have caused you an eternal suffering in the hands of Eris" Santaliel chuckles
" She'll be too drowned in love to do that" Cupid says
" Yeah, until dad undo the spell" Santaliel said
"Anyways I'll see you later.", Cupid bid Santaliel farewell before dashing off
Santaliel stood before the door of his father's chambers, announcing his presence. "Dad, it's Santaliel."
The door swung open, revealing a vast throne room filled with ancient artifacts and the wisdom of countless ages. An iconic spear was proudly displayed on a pedestal of black onyx. It was the legendary spear which his father used in winning one of his greatest battles that liberated the Earthly realm
Ares stood in front of a newly placed artifact, his figure imposing strength and wisdom. His gaze turning towards Santaliel as he entered
"Good day Father," Santaliel greeted with a slight bow as he faced his dad
Ares's face lit up with excitement. "Santaliel, my boy! How have you been? I missed you."
Santaliel replied, "I'm fine, Dad. You're looking mighty as usual." Santaliel said as he took in his father's imposing figure,huge in size, scarred from wars, yet radiating an otherworldly beauty, with bright red orbs and white hair.
*Haha* Ares laughed " I see you're still cheerful as usual and it's good to see you as well Orly"
Orly, who had been quiet until now, bowed. "Good to see you too, my Lord."
Ares eyes roamed from Santaliel's head to toe, his gaze filled with pride. " You've grown so big, my boy," he said, his deep voice warm with affection, as he placed his sturdy hands on Santaliel's shoulders.
"Dad, You're acting like you've been gone for a hundred years; it was just three years and I'm still the same" Santaliel jests
Ares smiled, "Felt like a million years being away from you."
The warmth between them was undeniable. To the world, Ares was a god to be feared. But to Santaliel, he was simply… Dad.
" What spoils of war have you brought back this time around Dad?" Santaliel asks
Ares waved his hand and a jaded square token with intricate designs in it appeared and he hands it over to Santaliel, " that is an ancient relic, it's said to enhance Celestial Force, by the way have you discovered your celestial aura"
" Thank you father for the gift, I'll treasure it, and I've Still not discovered my aura" Santaliel said, frustration evident on his face as he collected the relic from his father
Ares give him a reassuring smile, "Do not rush yourself, my boy. The discovery of one's celestial aura is a journey and not a race."
"I heard people talking, they mock me and say my birth and mother are the reason for my defect." Santaliel mentioned
"That's not true." Aries denies
"Then why won't anyone tell me about my mother?" Santaliel pressured
"Some things are best left unsaid." Ares replied
" But Dad..."
" Enough" Ares said,his voice wrapped in extraordinary aura that's could be felt in the whole Mansion
Santaliel remained quiet with disappointed etched in his face
Ares continued, "Everything I do or say is for your own good. You should take the next celestial exam."
"It's the exam gods and goddesses take to discover the core of their aura, and I've failed it three times. Thanks, Dad, but I'm good." Santaliel declines
"Welcome home, Dad. If you'll excuse me, I'll take my leave now. Let's go, Orly." Santaliel sighed as he took his leave
Ares watched him depart with sadness in his eyes.