Chapter 8: Whispers of Power
The village of Tempest bustled with life as the sun hung high in the sky. Goblins reinforced the walls while the Tempest Wolves patrolled the perimeter—angelic wolves glowing softly under the sun, while their demonic counterparts melted into the shadows.
Joshua stood on the outskirts, his white hair flowing as his galaxy-red eyes scanned the forest. His Heavenly Appraisal flickered, picking up faint traces of magic further ahead.
Rimuru bounced beside him, golden eyes glinting.
"Someone's coming."
Joshua's streaks pulsed softly.
"Not just anyone... a Majin."
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[Great Sage: Presence Detected – Magicule Signature: B Rank]
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The brothers waited as the presence approached. Moments later, a figure emerged from the trees—a tall woman with long purple hair and golden eyes, wrapped in a dark cloak.
Shizu.
Her gaze swept over the village before landing on the brothers. For a moment, her eyes widened—lingering on Joshua's celestial yet infernal aura.
Joshua's streaks flickered faintly.
"You're not from around here."
Shizu's golden eyes narrowed.
"Neither are you."
Rimuru's azure hair shifted as he stepped forward.
"We're the Tempest Brothers... and this is our village."
Shizu's gaze lingered on Joshua.
"Half-angel... half-demon... a creature of balance."
Joshua's galaxy-red eyes glimmered, betraying no emotion.
"Is that a problem?"
A small smile tugged at Shizu's lips.
"Not at all. Balance... can be powerful."
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A Fragile Alliance
The brothers invited Shizu into the village, offering food and rest. As the day passed, she observed the goblins, the wolves, and the brothers themselves.
Joshua's dual aura seemed to unsettle her—like something both familiar and dangerous.
By nightfall, Shizu stood by the campfire, her golden eyes reflecting the flames.
"This village... it's special."
Rimuru grinned.
"It's Tempest."
Joshua's streaks flickered.
"What brings a Majin so far from the cities?"
Shizu's smile faded.
"I'm searching for someone... and running from someone else."
Joshua's galaxy-red eyes gleamed faintly.
"Balance... always two sides to the same coin."
Shizu glanced at him, something flickering behind her eyes—curiosity, or perhaps recognition.
"You understand more than you let on."
Joshua's streaks pulsed softly.
"I always have."
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End of Chapter 8
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