The room darkened as Mephiles glared at Jonah with contempt. He conjured another crackling energy lance, its edges pulsing with an ominous glow.
"Drown in darkness!" Mephiles bellowed, plunging into the ground. The purple liquid spread like a living entity, rippling with malevolence. Suddenly, a towering blade of energy erupted from the floor, streaking toward Jonah with deadly precision.
Jonah leapt to dodge, narrowly escaping the blade's searing edge, but the liquid slowed his movements, clinging to his boots like tar. Thinking fast, Jonah focused his telekinesis and lifted his feet just above the surface, gliding across the room like a skater over ice. This newfound mobility allowed him to weave deftly away as the energy blade slashed back toward him.
After several near-misses, the energy blade dissipated, and the room fell eerily silent. Jonah's eyes scanned the rippling liquid for signs of Mephiles. Suddenly, a burst of movement gave away Mephiles' location. Jonah propelled himself forward, using his telekinesis to amplify his speed, crashing into Mephiles with the force of a battering ram.
Mephiles was flung from the liquid, slamming against the floor with a resonating thud. Seizing the moment, Jonah closed the distance, landing a fierce kick that launched Mephiles into the air. Jonah followed swiftly, delivering a flurry of strikes with practiced precision. His blows carried telekinetic force, amplifying their power. With a final high kick, he sent Mephiles crashing through a pillar, debris raining down.
As the dust settled, Mephiles snarled, his voice dripping with malice. "I owe much to you, human. It's your defeat that will secure my freedom!"
Jonah clenched his fists. "I know who you are, Mephiles. And I'll die before I let you loose on this world!"
Mephiles raised his hands, summoning a horde of one-eyed creatures from the liquid. They surged toward Jonah, screeching with bloodlust. Jonah hurled fireballs in every direction, the fiery projectiles incinerating the dark entities in bursts of smoke and dark mist. As the last of the creatures fell, Jonah focused his energy on Mephiles, delivering a telekinetically enhanced haymaker that sent the shadowy foe hurtling into the air.
Jonah leapt after him, smashing Mephiles into another pillar before dragging him across the ceiling with an invisible force. With a powerful double-handed strike, Jonah spiked Mephiles into the ground, creating a crater upon impact.
Groaning, Mephiles staggered to his feet. With a feral growl, he unleashed a pulse of darkness, forming shadowy clones of himself that surrounded Jonah. "Time to raise the curtain on this macabre play," Mephiles sneered.
The clones flew into the air, summoning stone pillars from the liquid darkness and hurling them toward Jonah. The room shook as the massive structures slammed into the ground. Jonah dodged the onslaught, then boosted himself up one of the fallen pillars, leaping into the air where the clones hovered.
"More of you just means more targets!" Jonah shouted, darting between the clones, striking them down one by one. Each dissolved into dark mist with a satisfying hiss as Jonah landed back on the floor, unscathed.
Mephiles' disembodied voice echoed through the room. "I might consider sparing you, human."
Jonah smirked. "Oh? Getting scared of losing, are we?"
A guttural roar filled the air as Mephiles emerged, transforming into his monstrous form. His grotesque body loomed over Jonah. With a single blazing eye, Mephiles unleashed a massive purple laser. Jonah skated furiously around the arena, narrowly evading both the beam and the crushing fists that followed.
"I'm disappointed human, truly disappointed!" Mephiles spat. "I thought the so-called King of the Eldritch would have more to offer!"
Jonah clenched his jaw, circling to flank the massive creature. "Keep talking, but you're not exactly at your prime either!"
Using telekinetic force, Jonah battered Mephiles' protective shell with repeated strikes, cracking the dark armor. Finally, Jonah conjured an air drill with his telekinesis and punched as he drove it into the monster's core. The beast shattered, splitting into smaller clones that surrounded Jonah, all wielding energy lances.
"This is your end!" Mephiles screamed as he and the clones send out the lances toward Jonah.
Jonah's instincts kicked in. With a powerful telekinetic burst, he sent the clones flying upward. Leaping after them, Jonah unleashed a barrage of bigger fireballs, obliterating the doppelgangers in midair. Mephiles, now alone and vulnerable, was dragged toward Jonah by an invisible force. Jonah delivered a devastating roundhouse kick, slamming Mephiles back into the floor.
Weakened and struggling to rise, Mephiles muttered, "No… she promised me… you were supposed to be weak compared to me. I want… TO EXIST!"
Jonah gritted his teeth, deflecting another wave of one-eyed creatures before closing in on Mephiles. With one final push, he formed another telekinetic drill around his fist and drove it straight through Mephiles' chest making a hole through him.
Mephiles screamed, his form dissolving into a dark ooze. Using his telekinesis, Jonah forced the substance back into the scepter. With a final surge of energy, Mephiles was sealed away once more.
Breathing heavily, Jonah held the scepter aloft. "You don't get a future" he declared.
Jonah sank to the ground, his legs trembling as the adrenaline began to fade. He rested his forearms on his knees, breathing heavily. "He was tough… I had to push everything I had into those attacks to get him on the ropes."
The room was still thick with the residual energy of the battle, the air vibrating faintly from the clash of powers. Jonah wiped the sweat from his brow, trying to steady his pulse, when a calm, steady voice spoke from behind him.
"You've done well, my Kungur."
Jonah turned his head to see Yad standing at the edge of the room, her expression soft but a bit proud. She walked toward him. "Your growth is remarkable. Your strength and abilities have come a long way. The progress you've made in mastering your telekinesis, your physical conditioning, and even your quick and sometimes creative thinking in battle—all of it is setting the stage for your Apotheosis. The stronger you become, the faster that transformation will come."
Jonah gave a weak nod, still catching his breath. "Thanks, Yad. That's good to hear, but right now…" He gestured to the scepter lying on the ground next to him. "What are we going to do with this?"
Yad leaned down, picking up the artifact with an almost effortless grace. The scepter pulsed faintly with dark energy, but in her hands, it seemed subdued, as if it recognized it was outmatched. "You don't need to concern yourself with it. Mephiles is no real threat without his other half. Even if they were reunited, Aza could handle him without breaking much of a sweat." She examined the scepter thoughtfully. "I'll confer with Yog. We may seal it in a realm outside of time where it can never cause trouble again. Or perhaps we'll just send him back to the dimension Nyarly stole him from in the first place. It'll depend on what Yog suggests."
"Good to know," Jonah muttered, leaning back against a broken pillar. The exhaustion was catching up to him quickly. "But right now, I think I need to go home. A nap sounds really good about now."
Yad's lips curved in a faint smile. "Of course." She unsheathed her sword, the blade shimmering with an otherworldly light, and slashed it downward to create a swirling portal. It cast a soft glow in the darkened room as she gestured toward it.
Jonah pushed himself to his feet, wobbling slightly as he approached the portal. "Thanks, Yad."
She inclined her head. "Rest well, my Kungur. You've earned it."
With a tired wave, Jonah stepped through the portal and emerged in the familiar surroundings of his house. The warm, comfortable air of his home was a sharp contrast to the oppressive darkness from the battleground. He barely had time to take a step before Infetsa appeared, her eyes lighting up as she saw him.
"Ah, my King! You've returned!" she exclaimed, rushing to his side. Her expression softened with concern as she noticed his exhausted state. "Lady Aza will be pleased to hear of your return. But look at you—you're completely worn out. Here, let me help you."
Jonah smiled faintly as Infetsa slipped an arm around his shoulders, steadying him as she guided him toward his bedroom. By the time they reached his bed, Jonah was practically asleep on his feet. Infetsa eased him down onto the mattress, carefully pulling a blanket over him.
"Thanks, Infetsa," Jonah mumbled, his voice heavy with drowsiness. He managed a small grin as he sank into the comfort of his bed. "Man, those eight months in that other world were a grind… but worth it for the gains."
Infetsa chuckled softly. "Rest now, my King. You deserve it."
Within moments, Jonah was fast asleep, his breathing deep and even. Infetsa tucked the blanket snugly around him, a satisfied smile on her face as she stepped quietly out of the room.
A few hours later, Aza arrived, her presence filling the house with a subtle but unmistakable aura. She moved silently into Jonah's room, her eyes softening as she saw him sleeping soundly.
She climbed carefully into the bed beside him, pulling the blanket over herself as she wrapped her arms around Jonah's still form. She rested her head against his, holding him close as if shielding him from any harm that might come his way.
"You're doing so well," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "You'll be an incredible Kungur, my love. Just keep going."
As the moonlight filtered through the curtains, casting a serene glow over the room, Aza closed her eyes, content to simply be near him. Jonah slept on, his body recovering from the trials he had faced.
[TIMESKIP]
"Wait, so I don't ever have to worry about regressing?" Jonah exclaimed, leaning forward on his couch, disbelief and excitement etched on his face.
Aza chuckled softly, reclining against his right side. "That's right, my dear. Since you're transitioning into becoming Eldritch, your physical gains are permanent. You'll never lose what you've worked so hard for, even if you take a break from training. For as long as you remain human, those muscles will stay right where they are. And once you've fully ascended, physical attributes will become… well, let's just say they'll be less of a concern in that regard."
Jonah grinned, leaning back against the cushions. "Sweet! I'll still keep training every day to keep building strength and honing my skills—can't slack off on that. But knowing I won't lose what I've already achieved? That's awesome."
Melody, lounging comfortably against his left side in her spectral form, traced a cold, ethereal finger along the curve of his bicep. "You're definitely not a twig anymore, Jonah," she teased, her touch eliciting goosebumps.
Jonah felt his face heat up as both girls admired his physique, their approval a mix of playful and sincere. "Uh, thanks," he muttered, trying to suppress the blush spreading across his cheeks.
Clearing his throat, he shifted topics. "Hey, Aza. I was looking through that book Kass gave me—the one with all the potential servants—and I think I've found some I'd like to bring into the fold."
Aza tilted her head slightly, her dark eyes curious. "Oh? Very well, my love. Who do you have in mind, and why now?"
Jonah leaned forward again, his tone becoming more serious. "It's for the same reason I went off to train. The holidays are coming up, and I'll need more capable people on my side for what's about to go down."
Aza nodded knowingly. "Ah, the Christmas holiday. Yog informed me about what's supposed to happen, but tell me—why are you so eager to take this fight head-on?"
Jonah's expression hardened, determination flickering in his eyes. "Because, according to what Ithaqua told me, the attack will target a place my family will be gathering for the holiday. That makes it personal. Nobody hurts my family."
Aza's expression softened as she cupped his cheek, her voice warm yet firm. "I understand that better than you know, Jonah. Protecting your family is a worthy cause, and I'll help you in any way I can." She kissed his forehead before standing. "Let's bring these new servants into your service."
Aza reached out to Yog-Sothoth, who materialized in the room moments later.
"Huh," Yog remarked, glancing at Jonah. "I thought this would take a few more days."
Jonah smirked. "I thought you could see the future?"
Yog folded her arms with a knowing smile. "Possible futures, Jonah. I knew you'd want to do this, but the timing was always uncertain. You've decided a bit sooner than I expected."
Jonah shrugged. "I like being unpredictable. So, who's up first?"
Yog drew her katana, its blade shimmering with a reality bending light, and slashed it through the air. A swirling portal of stars and shadows opened before them.
"Step through, and you'll meet your first new servant," Yog said, gesturing toward the glowing rift.
Jonah took a deep breath and stepped through, Aza joins him as they emerge into a quiet, dimly lit chamber carved from stone. The air was cool and ancient, carrying a weight of forgotten history. At the center of the room stood a small pedestal, and atop it was a statue of a woman.
She was almost petite, standing under five feet, with delicate but regal features. Her posture was proud, and her expression bore a calm yet commanding presence. Despite her small stature, there was an undeniable aura of authority surrounding her.
Jonah approached cautiously. "This must be her…"
Yog's voice echoed faintly from the portal behind him. "The First Queen, Amala. She gave everything—her life, her freedom—to save her people. Rani made her a deal, and she has stood here ever since, waiting. Now, she will serve you."
Jonah reached out, placing a hand on the cool surface of the statue. The room trembled faintly, and a golden light emanated from the pedestal. Cracks began to spread across the stone surface as the petrified queen began to awaken.
The stone encasing her fell away piece by piece, revealing her smooth pale skin and striking dark eyes that opened for the first time in thousands of years. Her hair, a cascade of white, shimmered as if it had just been freed from a crown of light. She took a deep breath, steadying herself before her gaze landed on Jonah.
"You are… my master now?" Her voice was soft but carried an undercurrent of strength, like a queen addressing her court.
Jonah nodded. "I am Jonah. And you're Amala, right? I'm here to help you—and to ask for your help in return."
Amala studied him for a moment, her expression unreadable. Then she stepped down from the pedestal with surprising grace and knelt before him.
"I was once the queen of a forgotten people. My soul was given to Rani, and now it's given to you... I am yours to command," she said solemnly. "What would you have of me?"
Jonah knelt as well, gently lifting her to her feet. "No kneeling yet, I still feel awkward about that stuff. I'd like your help in building something great, something that lasts. But first, let's start small: I'll help you adjust to this new time, and together, we'll figure out how you can best use your talents... also from what I know of you, your freaking cool!"
Amala's lips twitched into a small smile. "You are… different from what I expected. I will serve faithfully and learn this new world. Thank you for awakening me."
Yog's katana sliced through the air once more, and another shimmering portal spiraled open before Jonah. The glowing edges crackled faintly, giving off an earthy, warm aura this time.
"Well, ready for round two?" Yog asked, an amused smirk playing on her lips.
Jonah stretched his arms, a bit of a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth, he's starting to feel a bubbly sort of confidence for whatever reason. "Let's see what we've got. If this one's ends up as cool as Amala, I might just start a collection of badasses."
Jonah stepped into the portal, feeling a rush of warm, mineral-laden air hit him as he emerged into a vast, underground cavern. The space was breathtaking—stalactites hung from the ceiling like crystalline chandeliers, reflecting the orange glow of rivers of lava that cut through the obsidian floor. Intricately carved structures, ranging from elegant homes to grand sculptures, dotted the cavern walls.
In the center of it all stood a tall, statuesque figure. Her skin shimmered like polished blue obsidian, catching the fiery light of the cavern. Her eyes were molten gold, glowing faintly as they observed Jonah. She wore a flowing gown of what appeared to be woven basalt, its intricate design resembling flowing magma frozen mid-motion. Her posture was regal but relaxed, as if she were perfectly at home in the heart of a volcano.
As Jonah approached, her lips curved into a small, knowing smile. "You must be the one we've awaited. The chosen of Azathoth." Her voice was smooth and resonant, like a distant earthquake. "I am Tthiaftlsuftaftugh. But, for simplicity, you may call me Tthia."
Jonah tilted his head, sizing her up. "Alright, Tthia. Let's skip the formalities—are you here to join me, or critique my home décor? Because honestly, I could use help with the last one."
Tthia blinked, momentarily caught off guard by his tone, before letting out a low, melodic laugh. "You are… different than I expected. But I rather like that. I am here to offer my service, Lord Jonah. My people foresaw your rise, and I have come to plead for their future."
Jonah folded his arms, a smirk creeping onto his face. "Plead, huh? Not exactly how I'd phrase it if I were you. You're practically royalty down here, right? So, what's the deal? Why leave all this lava-palace luxury to hang out with me?"
Tthia stepped closer, her movements graceful despite the weighty aura she carried. "My people have lived below the surface for thousands of years, thriving in the warmth of the Earth's mantle. But the seers have spoken—our destiny lies above, where the air is cool and the sun burns in the sky. I come not only to serve but to ask that, one day, you grant my people a place on the surface once more."
Jonah raised an eyebrow, leaning casually against a carved pillar. "So, you're saying you want to bring an entire race of lava-dwellers topside? Sounds like a logistical nightmare."
Tthia inclined her head slightly, unfazed by his sarcasm. "You underestimate our adaptability. With your guidance, I believe it is possible. But first, I wish to prove my worth to you."
Jonah straightened, his tone softening. "Alright, fair enough. What kind of skills are we talking about here?"
Tthia gestured around the cavern. "I am an artisan, a builder, and a warrior when needed. I have shaped these halls and crafted these structures. I can create beauty, fortifications, and anything else you require."
Jonah let out a low whistle, impressed despite himself. "Okay, that's… actually really cool. You've got the talent, no doubt about it." He took a step closer, holding out his hand. "Alright, Tthia. Welcome to the team. Let's see what you've got."
Tthia took his hand, her molten gold eyes meeting his. For a moment, the air around them grew warmer, and she gave a small, satisfied nod. "You will not regret this, Lord Jonah."
Jonah smirked, a glint of playful mischief returning to his eyes. "I better not. But if you screw up, I'm totally calling you 'Obsidian Barbie' until you redeem yourself."
Tthia raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching in amusement. "I assure you, my lord, you will find no cause for such a nickname."
"Challenge accepted," Jonah quipped. "Alright, let's head back. I've got more servants to meet and a holiday invasion to prepare for. No pressure or anything."
With a wave of her hand, Tthia summoned a small orb of molten rock that floated beside her, radiating warmth. She followed Jonah back through the portal, her gaze lingering on the cavern one last time before stepping into her new role.
Yog slid her katana into the air once more, and a vortex swirled open, this time emitting a chilling gust that carried with it the distant rumble of storms and the faint, sulfurous tang of Jupiter's atmosphere. The portal shimmered like a crack in the universe, with streaks of stormy red and golden lightning flickering within.
Jonah stared at it, crossing his arms. "You're telling me my next pick-up is in a literal storm prison on Jupiter?"
Yog nodded, her smirk widening. "Yep. The Eye of Jupiter. Think of it as a juvie detention center for unruly eldritch beings. Your next two servants are... a bit of a handful as I'm sure you read."
Aza chimed in, her voice calm but laced with amusement. "Nctosa and Nctolhu are infamous even among our kind. Mischievous, destructive, and utterly shameless. They've been confined for quite some time, so I trust you'll ensure they behave."
Jonah raised an eyebrow. "And what happens if they don't?"
"I'll provide you with proper containment measures, my dear," Aza assured him. "Think of it as… parenting with extra dimensions."
Jonah stepped through the portal, the winds whipping around him as the chaotic energy of Jupiter's storm enveloped him. When he landed on the other side, he found himself standing in what could only be described as a surrealist nightmare.
The Eye of Jupiter's prison was a massive, spiraling construct of translucent, pulsating material that shimmered with hues of red and gold. Bolts of eldritch lightning crackled along its surfaces, and the space seemed to warp and twist endlessly, defying all sense of direction. The air hummed with oppressive energy, but Jonah barely flinched. He had a mission.
In the center of the space loomed a containment chamber bound by ethereal chains and glowing with a crimson radiance. Coiled within were two massive serpentine figures, their bodies shimmering with a pale, otherworldly light that contrasted starkly with the storm's fiery hues. Their long, muscular tails were covered in smooth scales, and their upper bodies were humanoid, though no less intimidating... and alluring.
Each had striking white hair, glimmering faintly in the chamber's glow, and their crimson eyes burned intensely.
As he approached, the two figures stirred, their movements fluid and serpentine. Their heads lifted in unison, and their crimson eyes locked onto him. For a moment, there was silence, and then the larger of the two—a fraction taller but otherwise identical—spoke, her voice smooth and laced with curiosity.
"Well, well," one purred, her voice dripping with mischief. "Who do we have here? A visitor?"
"Not just any visitor," the other one added, tone teasing. "A human... but the scent of Eldritch on them."
Jonah tilted his head, his grin widening. "I sure am, and seems like I 'got volunteered to babysit.' Heard you two were causing enough trouble to get locked up in an eldritch juvie. Guess that makes me your parole officer."
The smaller twin leaned forward, a smirk on her face. "And what makes you think we'll listen to you, little human?"
Jonah shrugged, crossing his arms. "Oh, I don't know. Maybe the fact that Aunt Aza put me in charge? Wanna test me?"
The twins exchanged a glance, their expressions shifting from amusement to faint unease.
"Wait," Nctosa—the taller twin—muttered. "Aza sent you?"
"And she's letting you take us out?" Nctolhu added, her tone a mix of suspicion and disbelief.
Jonah smirked, tapping the side of his head. "Yep. And she gave me full authority to put you two in time out if you start acting up. So, here's the deal: you come with me, behave yourselves at least to a degree, and maybe—just maybe—you'll actually get to enjoy freedom. Sound good?"
The twins hesitated, their crimson eyes flickering with uncertainty. Then, slowly, they uncoiled their massive tails, lowering themselves to Jonah's level.
"We'll behave" Nctosa said, her voice soft but firm.
"Well be good for Master" Nctolhu added.
Jonah blushes at them calling him master while looking at him submissively like that. He takes his head out of the gutter and rolled his eyes. "Yeah, we'll see how long that lasts." He turned toward the portal, gesturing for them to follow. "Come on, danger noodles. Let's get out of here before I start regretting this... hope Kass appreciates this."
The twins slithered after him, their movements eerily graceful. As they passed through the portal, Jonah couldn't help but mutter to himself, "I swear, if these two break something of mine, they're getting that timeout in a pocket dimension."
On the other side of the portal, Aza and Yog awaited, their expressions a mix of curiosity and amusement as they watched the twins emerge.
Yog swung her katana again, the portal opening with a swirling mix of starlight and deep shadows. The air shifted, growing warmer yet strangely calm, as though the universe itself held its breath for what lay beyond.
Jonah tilted his head, his expression flickering with some curiosity. "Alright, what's the story on this one? Do I need a flameproof suit, or are we going somewhere chill for once?"
Yog smirked, her gaze playful. "Oh, she's chill, alright. But don't let that fool you—Tia'ugasa is one of the sharpest beings you'll meet. She's not flashy like the others, but she's clever. She'll keep you on your toes."
Aza chuckled softly, stepping beside Jonah. "Tia is… unique. She's my surrogate niece, in a sense. Her existence came from unusual circumstances, but she's loyal and caring. If she likes you, Jonah, she'll be a strong ally."
Jonah raised an eyebrow, processing that information. "A surrogate niece? So you've got family ties to this one?" He smirked slightly. "Guess that means I've got to be extra charming, huh?"
Aza placed a hand on his shoulder, her expression amused but fond. "Be yourself, my love. She'll see through any act you try to put on."
With that, Jonah straightened his jacket, adjusted his hair, and stepped through the portal.
On the other side, the landscape was oddly serene—a tranquil field under a sky filled with swirling galaxies. In the distance stood a simple stone cottage, cozy and unassuming, with wisps of smoke curling from its chimney.
As Jonah approached, the door swung open, and out stepped Tia'ugasa. She was striking, with her short black hair, blueish eyes sparkling with intelligence, and two big oni-like horns adorning her forehead. She had a casual sort of air about her, dressed in a flowing, comfortable robe, and her gaze was warm but assessing.
"Well, well," Tia said, leaning against the doorframe with a sly grin. "So this is Aunty Aza's chosen one? You're cuter than I expected."
Jonah blinked, caught off guard for a moment, before letting out a small chuckle. "Uh, thanks? Not sure how to respond to that without sounding weird."
Tia laughed, stepping forward and circling him a little. "Relax, Uncle. I'm not here to roast you—unless you deserve it. So, Aunty Aza loves you, huh? Good. Hope you bring some fun times, Uncle."
Jonah couldn't help but grin. "Oh, don't worry. Fun's basically my middle name. You might regret wishing for it."
Tia crossed her arms, smirking. "We'll see about that. I've been around long enough to handle more than you can imagine."
Jonah tilted his head, his grin softening as his more serious side surfaced. "Well, then I guess you'll fit right in. We're building something big, Tia, and if you're on board, we're going to need your smarts and your loyalty."
Tia's expression shifted, a flicker of respect crossing her face. "You talk a good game, Uncle. But you're right—I am on board. If you keep Aza happy, you've got my loyalty."
Jonah extended his hand, and Tia clasped it firmly.
"Welcome to the team" Jonah said.
With a flick of her wrist, Tia summoned her belongings—a small, neatly packed bag and a sculpted staff made of smooth stone. "Lead the way, Uncle."
Jonah turned, gesturing dramatically toward the still-open portal. As they stepped through the portal together, Jonah felt a growing sense of camaraderie. Tia'ugasa was sharp, witty, and more than capable of holding her own—a perfect addition to his ever-growing entourage.
Back on the other side, Aza greeted Tia with a warm smile and a gentle hug, while Yog observed with a smirk.
Yog swung her katana once more, opening a swirling portal that felt unlike any other Jonah had stepped through. The air became thick with an almost oppressive energy, an undercurrent of death and life rolling from beyond the swirling doorway. Jonah could feel the gravity of it, the weight of what lay on the other side pulling at him, tugging at the edges of his soul.
"Alright, last stop on the servant train," Jonah muttered, trying to mask the awe and anticipation building inside him. He straightened, taking a deep breath. "I know who this last one must be... Let's see what they are all about."
Yog's expression remained serious, but there was a hint of something like admiration in her eyes. "This one is unlike the others. Aftlhaangunaga is… an ancient being. One who has existed since the beginning of the cosmos, feeding upon dying worlds and bringing them to their end. Their role in the cycle of life and death is a necessary one, but it's also... heavy."
Jonah gave her a sideways glance, intrigued. "Sounds like a big deal. I'll take my chances though." He cracked his knuckles, his more playful side creeping through. "I've handled worse... ok that's a lie but still!"
Aza, who had remained silent until now, stepped forward, her eyes soft but filled with a deep respect. "Aftlha is one of my most loyal beings in existence. Their role has always been to end worlds, but now, they've chosen to serve you. I trust you'll know how to handle them."
With a slow and deliberate motion, Yog gestured for Jonah to step through the portal. He did so, and as he passed into the other world, the first thing he saw was a terrifying mass of black tentacles, pulsing with green energy, stretching toward the heavens and descending back toward the ground. Each tendril seemed alive, each one writhing with a terrible, deep hunger. The air felt thick with something primal, an almost oppressive force that made the hairs on the back of Jonah's neck stand on end.
From the mass of tentacles came a voice, low and resonating with a depth that rattled the very air around them. "I have been Great Azathoth's unbias ax for ages, felling worlds like trees. Now I shall be your gavel, Supreme One. You alone may stave by the breath of Life and Death."
Jonah couldn't help but stare for a moment, awe and curiosity replacing any trace of discomfort. "Okay, that's one hell of an intro," he muttered. "But, uh… I think I'd prefer a more familiar form for the time being."
The shifting mass paused, as if considering his request. Then, with a burst of energy that felt like the cosmos itself bending to Jonah's will, the tentacles retracted and shifted into something altogether more humanoid. In their place stood a tall figure, a spider-ish looking woman with yellow eyes, spiky teeth, pale orange claws, fair skin, and long blonde hair styled into braided pigtails. She now wore a Puritan-era milkmaid's outfit comprising a white coif and a white-collared, four-sleeved black dress with an apron tied around the waist.
Her form was beautiful—though there was a slight uncanny edge to it for obvious reasons... which Jonah surprisingly liked... which made him questions things about himself. Her form shifted slightly, revealing the nature of her duality. But Jonah had to admit, she looked more than appealing in her present form.
"You desire my form to match your tastes, Jonah?" Aftlha's voice was smooth, yet it carried the weight of millennia, a sound that could crack stone. "I have no issue with it. It is your judgment that binds me now." She stepped closer, her presence undeniable. "I serve at your command, as I have served Azathoth."
Jonah blinked, trying to ground himself as the air around her thrummed with power. He ran a hand through his hair, forcing himself to focus. "Yeah, I guess this is it. You and me, huh?" He grinned, a cocky edge breaking through the intensity of the moment. "Alright, Aftlha. Let's see what you can bring, huh?"
She tilted her head slightly, her lips curving into a smile that was both serene and unsettling. "I have been both the end and the beginning. Life and death are my domains. I shall carry out your will, Supreme One. The fate of worlds shall be yours to decide, and I will be your instrument."
Jonah couldn't help but feel a shiver run down his spine, but he kept his cool. "Yeah, I'm digging this. I think we're going to get along just fine, Aftlha."
"I can take you anywhere you wish, Jonah," she said, her voice turning more intimate. "I have walked the cosmos for eons, and now… now, I shall help you reshape what once was. I shall follow your judgment, and your will shall be mine."
Jonah nodded, a sly grin crossing his face. "We're going to need some time to figure out what that means, but I can tell you right now… this is going to be fun."
Aftlha gave a low, rumbling laugh, a sound that echoed through the very fabric of the world around them. "We shall see, Jonah. We shall see."
Yog opened a portal, leading Jonah back home. As he stepped through, the weight of everything hit him all at once. He glanced around at the servants now in his care—Infetsa, Amala, Tthia, Nctosa & Nctolhu, Tia, and Aftlha. Powerful, ancient beings, each with their own stories, and now they were all under his command.
Jonah leaned back, letting the realization sink in. I really am a freaking King of the Eldritch, he thought, a grin tugging at his lips. The idea of leading such an unpredictable and powerful crew was daunting, but exciting.
For now, he would focus on getting them settled. There was the upcoming Christmas to prepare for, after all. But as the gravity of his situation settled in, Jonah couldn't help but feel a thrill. He had his hands full—but at least it was going to be one hell of a ride.
As Jonah began making his way through the house with his new servants, Yog lingered for a moment, turning to Aza with a smirk.
"Well, well," she said, raising an eyebrow. "It seems like Jonah's personality is changing a bit. Looks like he's starting to embrace his new role. Acting like a bit of a Gremlin sometimes, don't you think?"
Aza chuckled softly, her eyes fond as she watched Jonah. "He's always been like that deep down, Yog. But you're right, he's becoming more... confident. Maybe even a little mischievous. But it's all part of the process."
Yog grinned. "I see quite the paradoxical jokester in the future... Oh, but he'll learn. He always does."
(TO BE CONTINUED)