Within the private garden of Vega's realm, the atmosphere was tranquil and serene. The air was filled with a soft, warm breeze, carrying the faint scent of celestial flowers. Soft, glowing lights provided gentle illumination, casting dancing shadows beneath the ancient trees that stood like guardians.
In this secluded space, Kanji and Vega sat facing each other, the tension between them palpable.
Vega, still seething with leftover anger, took a deep breath before speaking. "Very well," she said, her voice betraying a hint of impatience. "Let us begin. State the purpose for which you summoned me, mortal."
Kanji, maintaining his calm demeanor, met her gaze and spoke directly. "I called you here because of Khazad," he said simply. "His imminent awakening requires immediate attention."
Kanji, his tone serious, continued to elaborate on the impending threat. "We have only 12 years before the seal weakens completely. Khazad is trapped on the non-existent realm, but the magic of the seal won't last forever. We must take action now to ensure that he doesn't escape."
The mere mention of the demon god's name caused a visible ripple of unease across the goddess's expression. She couldn't deny the gravity of the situation, nor the validity of Kanji's words.
Kanji inquired about the whereabouts of Kagiroi, a question that piqued Vega's interest. "Kagiroi...?" the goddess repeated, her gaze narrowing. "He is currently in an unknown location, accompanied by the Seven Ancient Celestial Beasts. His presence has been concealed from the prying eyes of mortals and gods alike."
Kanji probed further, seeking an explanation for Kagiroi's current state. "And why has he gone into hiding?" he asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.
The goddess Vega, still in her realm, leaned back in contemplation. "Kagiroi's current state of hiding is a precaution," she replied, her tone measured. "As the first hero and a Lightborn with considerable power, his presence could draw too much attention. The Seven Ancient Celestial Beasts offered him sanctuary in their realm, away from the complexities and dangers of the mortal and divine realms."
The goddess observed the stark contrast between Kanji and Kagiroi, noting the differences in their natures. "And yes," Vega affirmed, her gaze flickering between the two. "There is a stark difference between you and Kagiroi. One marked by cruelty and darkness, the other by kindness and light."
Vega narrowed her eyes as she regarded Kanji, a hint of mockery in her voice. "Oh, I am indeed referring to you," she confirmed, a tinge of sarcasm lacing her words. "You, with your cruelty and darkness. How fitting."
As Kanji acknowledged the animosity held towards him by many, Vega smirked, her expression tinged with derision. "Ah, so do you even understand your reputation," she sneered. "It's hardly surprising, given your actions and nature. Hatred is a given for one like you."
Vega, well aware of the extensive list of those who harbored animosity towards him, chuckled knowingly. "Ah, I am aware of the multitude of individuals who hold such hatred for you," she mused, her tone cold. "Your own clan disowned you for killing the head, the gods and angels despise you for your actions against their kin, and you have slain an astronomical number of angels and demons. It's no wonder that humanity fears and loathes you."
Kanji's smirk only fueled Vega's disdain. "Oh, so you find pleasure in your notoriety, do you?" she spat, her eyes narrowing further. "How ironic. You thrive on the pain and suffering you've inflicted upon others."
He says "what about you"
Vega's expression hardened as she retorted, "And what about me?" She held Kanji's gaze, her irritation flaring. "I am a goddess, a symbol of balance and justice. I stand against those who would disrupt the order of things. You, on the other hand, are the embodiment of chaos and destruction. We are not the same."
Kanji's smirk widened, a hint of bitterness in his words. "Precisely," he agreed, "we are not the same. I've done what it takes to survive, as everything I try to protect slips through my fingers. It's a heavy burden to bear, being so powerful that even the gods want me sealed away."
Vega's expression softened slightly as Kanji spoke, a flicker of understanding passing through her eyes. "You have endured a great deal," she acknowledged, her voice losing some of its previous sharpness. "To constantly have to struggle and fight, to protect what you hold dear only to see it slipping away, it must take a toll on even someone like you."
Kanji looks at her "..Hmm..Your former Teacher Sophia'...I respect her ..she was true symbol of Kindness.....and the only one I acknowledge as God....she sacrifice her self and got trapped in empty realm to seal Khazad. I fought alongside with you'll...cause I wanted to protect her. And I'm still doing cause I promised her....not like I don't hate God's ...I do..
Vega observed Kanji as he spoke of Sophia, the Great Goddess of Beginning and Ending. Her expression softened further, a hint of respect in her eyes. "Yes, Sophia was indeed a beacon of kindness and selflessness," she agreed. "Her sacrifice to keep Khazad sealed was a testament to her greatness. I understand your loyalty to her. It's admirable that you fight to uphold your promise to her."
Kanji's determination was clear in his words, his resolve unwavering. Vega nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I see," she said. "You have made up your mind. This next time will be the last, and we shall kill Khazad together with everyone."
Vega observed Kanji, understanding his intention to convince Kagiroi and another individual. Her expression remained neutral, but her eyes betrayed a hint of curiosity. "I see," she said quietly. "You'll focus on convincing Kagiroi and your 'friend'. Understood."
With that, Kanji vanished, leaving Vega alone in her realm. The goddess's eyes remained fixated on the spot he had occupied, a myriad of thoughts swirling in her mind.
As the silence enveloped her garden once more, Vega's mind lingered on the conversation she had just endured. She mulled over Kanji's intentions, the determination etched into his words, and the significance of his promise to Sophia.
As the goddess pondered the future, a sense of responsibility settled upon her. She understood that the battle against Khazad would require the cooperation of all beings, regardless of their origins or allegiances.
With a sigh, she closed her eyes and allowed her mind to drift. The weight of the impending conflict loomed large, and the preparations that needed to be made were numerous. But for now, she would take a moment to collect herself, for the days ahead would be challenging.
~Next chapter "Jokedone"