Eden's Bio-Anomaly part 6

## Eden's Bio-Anomaly Chapter / Part 6

Screams and cheers of Falklore’s return continued to uproar at the toy mall within the Edensphere. Horns continued to blast as everyone continued to surround Falklore.

Merus smiled as he sat upon Falklores shoulders. He could see Edra and Himmsworth from across the room. throughout all of the celebration of Falklore’s return, Merus pat Falklores head and point to Prism.

Falklore looked to Prism, reaching his hand out to him. Prism looked at it, grabbing his hand as Falklore pulled him up.

”are you okay Prism?” Merus said in a worrisome tone as he got down from Falklore’s shoulders. He ran to Prism with his arms open in an attempt to hug Prism.

Prism used one of his hands to stop Merus from hugging him “I'm fine thanks.” Prism said as he then looked at Falklore who nodded.

”Aw, okay! I’m glad you're alright though!” Merus said with a smile, turning to Falklore. “thank you so much for saving him!” He exclaimed. Falklore put a thumbs up In response.

“I-“ Edra stuttered. Everyone looked to Edra who gave a slight smile. “…thank you Falklore.” She said.

“Young man, how have you been!” Himmsworth asked as he ran up to Falklore. Falklore looked to them both and nodded

”You were so cool too! You were all, like, intimidating and stuff and you scared him a lot!” Merus smiled. Falklore chuckled as he patted Merus’s head, ruffling his hair. He found it humorous of Merus fanboying over him.

“You’re very…yourself Falk.” Edra stepped forward. Falklore looked to her, nothing but silence came from him.

As the grown up’s we’re talking. Merus sat there, his head in the clouds. His mind was swirling as usual until he gasped with an idea. “Hey mutha! Can I hang out with Falklore for a bit?! I promise I’ll be very careful!” Merus pleaded.

Edra seemed taken aback by the request. “WHAT!? NO WAY!” She shouted.

“Honestly might make a better parent than you.” Prism said smugly.

“SHUT UP! Unless you want to be a frog again” Edra threatened to which Prism flinched.

“Let the boy go, besides, he literally couldn't be with anyone safer.” Himmsworth said to which Merus lit up with excitement.

Edra looked at Himmsworth and then at Falklore who gave her a thumbs up. “....Ehhhh ok...fine.”

Merus jumped with enthusiasm as he turned to Falklore. “So can I come with you Falklore?” Merus asked. Falklore nodded which made Merus smile wide.

Merus laughed, hugging Himmsworth and Edra. “Thank you!” Merus said as he ran to Falklore who turned to the doors. He approached Falklore, ready for anything. “Can I be on your shoulders again?” Merus asked.

Falklore nodded, bending down allowing Merus to piggyback on him. Merus climbed on and held the armor tight. “So where are we going?” Merus asked.

Falklore bent down slightly, making Merus slightly confused. Suddenly Falklore jumped up and almost in an instant they were higher than the Eden tree itself, letting Merus get a full view of everything.

”woaaaah! This is amazing!” Merus gazed at all of Eden in awe, he was speechless. Falklore smiled behind the helmet he wore. Falklore then jumped off the air and onto a stray branch of the Eden tree. Large Eden orbs were hanging in front of them.

“These are so much bigger up close! Himmsworth told me inside these are stories, right? I wonder how much people you could fit into these.” Merus questioned. Falklore bent down once more, drawing something into the branch.

Falklore drew an infinity sign then a plus, then another and another all the way to the end of the branch. He stood up and shrugged, being ready to go again.

”woah that’s a lot of people. Hehe” Merus giggled like a child on their birthday. Truly he was having a fun time.

“Where can we go next?” He asked to which Falklore looked around, shrugging once more. Merus thought for a bit, although due to his unfamiliarity with Eden, he had no idea. “Well I'm ready for anything!” He said.

Falklore nodded, he then picked Merus up and got ready to jump again before he heard the bells ringing at the castle in the Citadel. The two’s heads instantly looked towards the castle as Merus remembered what Himmsworth said earlier.

“Is that bad?” Merus asked to which Falklore shrugged then jumped down to the city behind the gates. The upper region of the city was intense. The pressure and feeling felt massive on the shoulders of someone who had never been there.

It was like being born all over again.

Merus felt dizzy due to the pressure although quickly adapted to it. Merus looked to the castle, the feeling of dread mended to him. “Is it…Is it okay for me to be here?” Merus said, slightly scared.

Falklore nodded as he began to walk towards the castle. Merus hopped down from Falklore’s back, walking beside him. He seemed frightened due to what Himmsworth told him.

Falklore took notice, patting his back for reassurance.

Merus looked up to Falklore, a slight smile upon his face as they approached the front gates. Merus took a deep breath, waiting next to Falklore. He didn't wish to touch anything as he felt if he did, it would be his last.

Thats when two large Knights bigger than Falklore walked over from the side of the entrance, their armor much more fancy and more divine looking. Their blades were meant to mimic the appearance of the being slayer.

Merus looked in shock at the guards. "Wooaaah" Merus awe'd under his breath. He saw the blades of the two knights, they were impressive to him but he liked the original better.

Falklore looked at the two Knights that stood guard and then watched as they opened up the doors to the main plaza where it was almost too bright to look into it.

The radiance and divinity of these royals, elites and higher ups were so much that they were creating their own light. They all wore eldritch and otherworldly masquerade masks and clothes all while an eerie yet nostalgic music played in the background.

Falklore walked in.

Merus walked in beside Falklore, staring at practically everything. ”woah this place is so cool. You get to come here all the time?” He asked as he looked around the area, finding it to be beautiful in a way.

Falklore shook his head, he then looked around and spotted a familiar face and started walking. Everyone wasn't paying him any mind, almost like he didn't exist.

Merus looked around at everyone, he didn’t even know if he was supposed to be here but he complied. He kept walking beside Falklore, gazing at the sights. It was really quite something to him.

Falklore and Merus walked over and noticed the princess, Daughter of Nunn and first born of the royal family.

**Helia**

Legends speak of her mother being given a child when she was a virgin. The child Helia was born with her eyes open and was capable of full speech at 5 months old. She was praised by the pope and is a figure only found in 2 churches and prayed to by all children and infants who want to see her fully grown one day.

Merus looked at the princess, her beauty distracted him causing him to lag behind Falklore. He quickly took notice and ran back up to Falklore.

The princess was no older than Merus. Helia’s head turned to them, she had long yellow locks, almost golden. Her skin was a beautiful rose like and her eyes looked to be a reflection of the world itself, beautiful clear blue eyes. She was young. A little one still.

Her dress was large and poofy, a tiara on her head. “Falklore! Your back!” She exclaimed. Helia ran over and hugged him.

Merus stayed behind Falklore, not wishing to disturb the two. Only for Helia’s eyes to turn to Merus as her and Falklore parted. “Who is this? A new friend for me to play with?” Helia questioned.

Falklore looked to Merus, moving out of the way. ”h-huh?! Oh, I’m Merus. Uh, it’s nice to meet you.” Merus said nervously. He didn’t want to do something stupid.

“...That's a weird name. You feel different than Falky, do you come from an abomination? I've had abomination friends, they don't last long.

Maybe an Eldritch monster?” Helia questioned, getting a step closer to Merus and inspecting him.

”oh! No, not at all. I come from…uh,” Merus looked to Falklore nervously, turning back to the Princess. “I’m just not from around here I’d say.” He said with a nervous chuckle.

“...Ok then! Want to play hide and seek?” Helia asked to which Merus smiled with excitement.

”sure! I love playing games!” Merus said enthusiastically as Falklore looked at him. “So who’s gonna be the seeker?”

“Falky can be seeker.” Helia said to which Falklore remained silent as the two looked at him with a smile.

”hehe okay! Turn around Falklore! You got to count to 20!” Merus said with excitement as Helia began to run through the masquerade.

Falklore sighed, he turned around and covered the eye holes on his helmet. He counted to 20 in his head

Merus looked around then ran behind Helia. The castle was foreign to him so he tried his best to learn the layout while following the princess. Helia ran around people of all shapes and sizes, the music still playing and people still giggling.

Merus giggled as he ran past every person. He quickly caught up to the princess “so, you know the castle better than anyone, where’s a good hiding spot?”

“Oh I got a great one to show you! Come along.” Helia grabbed Merus’s hand and ran out of the ballroom and down the hall where the guest became more and more incomprehensible. Even though they were earing clothes and face mask they're bodies were still...off.

Merus looked at every guest they ran by, he felt slightly weirded out by them. He surprisingly kept up well with the princess. He looked over to her and smiled as they ran up the stairs

As they got through they began to run up the stairs of the castle. The stairs led them to another ballroom, the size of the castle impressed Merus a lot. “How big is this place? It’s really cool!” Merus exclaimed.

“Too big sometimes.” she said as she looked around. “He shouldn't be able to find us here. Hurry, get lost in the crowd!" Helia giggled as she ran off.

Merus smiled as he ran around the crowd. He moved left and right and tried to hide in the corner of the ballroom while Helia hid away underneath the dress of one of the nobles who didn't even notice.

Eventually Falklore walked upstairs with some nobles gossiping and talking to him about political nonsense. Merus could see Falklore from the corner of his eye. He made sure to hide behind the guests and nobles, staying out of sight.

Falklore looked around for Merus and Helia. Merus snickered as he moved away from Falklore, staying on the opposite side of him. Falklore looked once more but after not finding the kids, he had left.

Merus giggled to himself as he walked around to find the princess. Helia heard Merus’s steps and got out from under the woman and then dusted off her dress.

“Hehe he had no idea!” Merus said, approaching Helia with a warm smile.

“He dosent like crowds or so I'm told. This was perfect.” Helia said as Merus looked to the stairs Falklore had walked away to.

“Maybe we should move just in case he comes back.” Merus suggested. Helia shook her head.

“No he won't, crowds are scary. Supposedly in deep crowds they whisper greed and nasty things. Some would even say evil things.” Helia said which made Merus confused.

”Evil things? Why would people say stuff like that?” Merus asked.

“Well a long time ago it was said that Good once reigned true across the world, the name of this God is called Mary.

One day though it was said that Mary was overtaken by the evil of man which bred Evil. Now Evil is all there is.” Helia said as Merus seemed skeptical.

“Woah, really? But if evil is all there is then how come there are good people like Falklore?” Merus questioned to which Helia shrugged.

“I don't know, it's weird. I think it's all made up. There has to be good in the world. I mean look at how wonderful my home is! Look at the beautiful Tree of Eden. Look at me!” Helia said, praising herself. Merus smiled.

”Yea! It’s gotta somehow balance it out right? You can’t have evil without good!” Merus retorted, his naiveness showing

“Exactly, maybe it's someone out here. In the big world right now.” Helia said, looking towards a window.

Merus smiled softly “Well, I’m glad to have met you. You really do seem like a good person! I’m really enjoying this game hehe.” He said.

“Hehehe me too, you still feel funny, but maybe that's just for all boys. Falklore makes me feel funny too.” Helia said as the two began to walk out of the Ballroom.

Merus put his hand to his chest, knowing why she felt that way, although the action seemed normal. “…yea, maybe. So, as a princess, what do you do around here? For fun, I mean.”

“I just run around sometimes. Mess with the cooks in the kitchen. And then read.

Sometimes I get to do other stuff, like go and walk around the upper region.

Or play on swings.” Helia answered as they walked through the corridor.

”All of that does sound fun. So what’s it like being a princess? I’m curious” Merus asked.

“Oh I get to kiss babies, I get to meet with other young princesses and even met with a king or two before.

I also get to manage the names of children.” Helia answered. The two wandered down another hallway, side by side.

“Is it hard being a princess? Like with everyone looking up to you, the expectations.” Merus asked. He was intrigued as he was sort of put in a position where he had many.

“No one looks up to me. Just at me. The only expectations on my head is that one day I'll be able to use the gift that Nunn gave me all those years ago.” Helia said as she stared ahead.

”But it must be relieving that you don’t have many expectations placed upon you.” Merus said as he reflected on the expectations his mother had placed on him.

Helia looked at him with some concern. “Why? Do you have expectations?” She asked.

”Unfortunately I do. It can be stressful at times.” He said. Helia and Merus continued walking.

“So, who are your parents?” Helia asked only for Merus to stop in his tracks. He seemed nervous.

his face suddenly shifted

“Uh, well I only have my mom and she isn’t from here, at least I don’t think she is. All I know is she isn’t welcome here.” Merus said in a nervous tone.

“Why so? Who is she?” Helia questioned, curiosity filling her mind.

“Can you keep a secret?” Merus asked to which Helia nodded.

“My Mom’s Edra, the goddess of the cosmos.” Merus said nervously

“Oh that’s cool…who is that?” Helia asked.

”you don’t know her?” Merus questioned in surprise. “That’s a relief” he thought.  “she’s one of the goddess’s is all I can really say”

“How intriguing, well ok then. I better get back to my room. Unless you want to join me there? We can play dolls and read books!” Helia suggested. Merus smiled

“Sure!” Merus agreed.

“Follow me” said Helia as she grabbed his hand and ran with him back inside to her room

Helia’s room was filled with stuffed animals, her bed was massive and she had many, many MANY books.

”woaah! This is awesome!” Merus ran over to the books “There’s so many! What’s your favorite one?”

“The story of the Great Willow. Such an amazing story. Do you think Nunn is real?” Helia asked, walking to her bed.

“Nunn? I don’t know. Maybe they do exist but I don’t think I know of them too much to really have an opinion on it.” Merus said. Helia gave a small nod.

“hmmmm, yea I guess that's ok.” Helia said. Merus walked to the bookshelves, inspecting each one.

“so, you mentioned the Great Willow, what is it?” Merus asked.

“The most holiest of places from what I remember reading.” Helia answered.

”huh, you got the book? I’d like to read it.” Asked Merus.

“We-“ the sound of a loud horn went off outside, interrupting Helia, as the sound of the capital gates opening could be heard

“OH MY GOODNESS!” Helia shouted as she ran to the window with joy

”huh?! What is it?” Merus ran to the window, looking out next to Helia.

They both looked outside to see two older young men walking in through the gates. Everyone from the party downstairs gathered to see the two young men.

The First born of the royal family, Prince Eric. His shiny golden hair a symbol of his heritage. His pristine and golden suit and armor.

The second man, the Second born of Eden, Jeremy. His hair was more of pale blonde, though often if looked at would be just white. His armor the same and his stature much mightier than his older brother.

”they look really cool!” Merus kept staring down at them. “But who are they?” He asked.

“They're my older brothers, we have quite a few siblings in our family.” Helia said as they watched the princes disappear from their vision.

”really? That’s so cool! Do you think they’ll play with us too?” Merus asked with excitement.

Helia shook her head. “...Probably not. They're pretty serious...sometimes.” she giggled

“Oh well, more fun for us!” Merus giggled as he looked to a toy chest in the room.

Merus looked over to her bed, admiring the stuffed animals “these are really cool.” he turned back to Helia “So what toys do you got?” Asked Merus as he bent down to the toy chest. He looked at many toys, even finding a Falklore action figure which he found funny.

Helia looked outside to see Falklore. “Hey look!” She said. Merus looked up from the toy chest and gazed at Falklore.

Falklore was sitting down outside, as he sat down he could hear a humming coming from the being slayer. He unsheathed it and then held it in his hands. He lifted it up and saw its darkness. The void of blackness coming from it. The whispers and secrets it was sharing in his mind. Untold, yet spoken.

“I kind of feel bad about leaving him out there” Merus said as he put the toys on the side of the window.

“Who? Falky? He's a knight, people like him are normally alone. You know, rumor has it that he used to be just a regular farm boy.” Helia said as she grabbed the Falklore action figure.

”Really? Huh. Well knight or not, people shouldn’t have to go through life alone.” Merus looked back to Falklore. He remembered what happened earlier that day yet shook it off his mind. Turning back to Helia he sat down. “I wonder why he had to come here when the bells rang.”

“Beats me, those bells are a signal of the Church having its hour of worship. Though I've never seen Falky go there.

Maybe it's cause he has god with him everywhere he goes.” Helia said, looking at the Being Slayer that Falklore was holding.

“He has god with him? What do you mean?” Merus asked with curiosity.

“You don't know? The sword he wields, the black one. That's Nunn, supposedly a gift from God himself. A blessing, something to even the playing field between gods and men.” Helia said as Merus looked back to Falklore, staring at his sword. He never knew such a thing were possible.

”that’s…Nunn? Well I guess that’s some evidence” Merus gave a small chuckle. “thats probably why Death and Prism were scared of him” Merus thought

“...Ok, How about you go out and bother Falky. I have to do something real quick.” Helia said. Merus nodded his head.

“Alright, and thank you for letting me play with you. I’ll see you later!” Merus gave a warm smile, walking towards the door he opened it and left to be with Falklore.

Merus wandered the halls of the castle, almost lost until he had finally come across the doors that led him outside. There he saw Falklore who was still sitting on the steps. The being slayer was at his side as he was sitting quietly by himself.

“Hey Falklore.” Merus said as he walked to Falklores side. He sat down next to Falklore who remained silent. “You seemed kind of alone out here.”

Falklore looked at Merus for a moment then turned back to what he was staring at. Merus tilted his head in curiosity, staring ahead at what Falklore was looking at.

”What are you looking at?” Merus asked.

It was The Church Of Nunn, this massive symbol of Eden. It was a giant culmination of multiple buildings and had the religious depiction of Nunn towering over them, perched on a tree branch. With Vermel hanging from the bottom of it, stabbed with the Being Slayer. Falklore was staring at it.

Merus looked at the building closely. He saw Nunn on the perch and then saw Vermel and the Being Slayer. He looked down to Falklore’s sword. “So, that’s Nunn? Who’s the guy with your sword in them?”

Falklore then looked at Merus and made devil horns on his head using his fingers. ”…the Devil?” Merus looked to the depiction of Vermel. He thought to himself while staring at the church. “can I ask how you got the sword?” Merus asked although he got no reply.

”Uh, so why did you come here when the bell rings? The princess told me the bells rang for the church’s worship.” Asked Merus, only for Falklore to remain quiet…as always.

Falklore then looked to the side and stood up, leaving Merus confused. “Hey, where are yo-“ he said only to see who was approaching the two.

“Ah my son, you have returned, with good news I hope.” It was the Pope himself, walking with an entire group of bishops and missionaries beside him. Falklore nodded his head.

Merus looked to the Pope and the missionaries and bishops. Being the scared child he was, he scooted behind Falklore. The Pope saw and smiled. He gave a small chuckle.

Falklore looked to Merus. “Do not be scared, my child, Here. In this place, so close to our lord. There is no need for fear. No matter who or what you are.” The Pope said. Merus looked up to Falklore then to the Pope.

What the Pope said had somewhat reassured Merus. He stepped out from behind Falklore. “Uh, sorry. It’s just that the last few days have been rough.” He said nervously.

“I'm aware, the show at the townsquare was quite the...inconvenience. But no worries. Everything is in Nunn's hands. You're here and that's all that matters.” The pope said. Merus smiled a bit from his words.

“Thank you.” Merus said. “So who are you?” He asked in curiosity.

“I am Alexander, I am the founder of the Church of Nunn and the watcher over all of Eden.” The Pope answered.

“So you’re like a pope?” Asked Merus.

“I am.” The pope responded.

”Okay, so, I have a question, Nunn and that Demon, what does it mean?” Merus said as he pointed to the religious depiction of Nunn and Vermel on the church

The Pope looked at the church. “Nunn? There are no words great enough nor good enough to describe such a being. Nunn is as he is. He is all above us, yet he is also us too.

Nunn is all knowing, all loving and all sin. Yet, he is not.

Nunn is as he is.

Vermel however, he is the opposite. He was banished, down into the deepest pit ever, so deep only Nunn himself can comprehend its depth.

Vermel is everything we strive not to be. He is an abomination! A rotten being. One that is hated and despised by all!” The pope exclaimed as Merus nodded along. He looked to the church, staring at Vermel.

”So Vermel wanted to do bad things and Nunn stopped them? What if Vermel returns?” Merus questioned.

“Vermel is only predicted to return when Vor burns all of the world to ash and brings forth a parade of corrupted angels with him where Vor will ride down on a chariot of damned souls.” The Pope said as all of these names were beginning to confuse Merus.

”Vor? Who is that?” Merus questioned once more. The Pope smiled at the boy’s curiosity.

“Come along child, I can teach you more once we reach the place of worship.” The Pope then motioned for Falklore and Merus to follow him to the church.

“Okay.” Merus said as Falklore remained silent. The two followed the Pope to the church.

They all eventually arrived there after two hours of walking. They arrived to the outside of its large doors.

It was decorated with stone statues of the seven with Nunn above them and Vermel beneath them all. Falklore stared at Vor’s statue.

Merus looked at the statues of the 7, not recognizing any of them. He looked to Falklore, then looked to what he was looking at, Vor. He put two and two together. “These statues are pretty impressive.” Merus said.

“Yes, we had some of our best make them.” The Pope said as he turned to the group.

”so who are they? They seem pretty important if they’re with Nunn and Vermel.” Merus asked.

“That is the Seven

Eden, the mother of all life, godhood and is divine given form.

The Eldest Son of Pain, The father of pain and misery.

The One to Reset the World, The one who loves the cycle above all else.

The One who desires Darkness,  the man who bathes in the pitch blackness

The One of Many Colors, the living embodiment of sin itself and a trickster God.

Vor,  the End bringer.

The one who seeks Oblivion, a creature who seeks the absolute annihilation of everything.” The pope answered, pointing to every statue as he went down the list.

He looked to Vor, the Eden Bringer. “so he’s the one who’ll destroy everything…?” Merus thought to himself. He turned back to the pope. “So what is it that you all do here?”

“Here we pray to Nunn, give others blessings and give redemption to others.” The pope said as Falklore looked to him.

”Are there any requirements to be a part of the church of Nunn?” Merus asked

“All you have to do my son is be willing to give your heart to Nunn and let his light guide you through life.

Live a just and free life. One with promise and love.  That is how you worship Nunn my son.” The pope said as he looked at the door and put his forehead to it. Merus smiled.

“That sounds like something I can do!” Merus said with enthusiasm.

“Its what everyone does, since the dawn of the first cycle we have done this.

Everything comes and goes, things live and die.

But all of us, return to Nunn. There is no other better place than by his side at the foot of the holiest of places.

The Great Willow. Would you like to go inside?” The pope said moving away from the door and towards Merus.

”The Great Willow? I’ve heard of it but only a little. What is it?” Questioned Merus as the Pope stopped, giving a small nod to the Bishops and missionaries. They stood ready.

“The Great Willow is...there are no words to describe its greatness.

It is the birthplace of the very Tree this city hangs off of and its smaller children too. We were born from the tree and the tree was born from the Great Willow.

Its the place where Nunn resides, a place beyond the scopes and definitions of absolution, clarity, dualism and all such mortal and God concepts.

Nunn is beyond understanding and so are his creations.” The Pope explained. Merus looked to Falklore then to the church, it was huge.

”That does sound pretty cool! Sure, I’ll join you there.” Merus smiled.

“Then come inside my son, and bask in the glory of Nunn.” The Pope then nodded as the bishops then began to open the doors to the church. When the doors opened Merus bore witness to hundreds of nobles and aristocrats of all kinds all kneeling and praying to a large statue of Nunn in the far back of the church, along the side were several pillars, each one a different member of the seven.

Underneath Nunn, hiding under Nunn's greatness was Vermel, his body rooted in the branches of the Great Willow which had a giant image of it in stained rosey glass.

The Church was massive and made up of several layers. Each being something different. The main floor they were on was the floor of worship.

Everyone walked into the church, the Pope leading the way. ”woah, this place is amazing!” Merus said as he gazed around the room. His eyes gleamed in awe

“Yes, yes it really is.” As they walked towards the back of the church, whispering could be heard from some of the people as they stared.

As they walked to Nunn, Merus looked around at the others whispering around him. He began to get nervous as they did so and became quiet. However the people got quieter the closer they got to Nunn as prejudice and status didn't matter the closer you were to God.

“Here it is, the first ever depiction of Nunn.” The Pope gestured to it. The statue was larger, larger than any other one he had seen so far. It almost looked at big as a small tower.

Merus looked up to the depiction of Nunn. The amazement on Merus’s face was truly something. “This is truly something spectacular.”

“He is.” The Pope looked over to Falklore who looked at him.

“May I?” He asked

Falklore then unsheathed the Being Slayer and handed it to the Pope. The man held it with grace and then gently put the Being Slayer on its rightful place. In the chest of Vermel.

“It is said that the discoverer was told exactly how Nunn looked from the Being Slayer itself.” The Pope said as everyone looked to the statue of Vermel as the Being slayer hummed in its chest.

”Really?! That’s so cool!” Merus’s eyes lit up. “So the sword is, like, sentient?” Merus questioned.

“Yes, it is the only blessing mankind was gifted to by Nunn himself.

A sort of edge to give to us over our more "powerful" counterparts.” The pope nodded, turning to Merus.

”Nunn must have cared for us that much then!” Merus said

“Must have? Well he still does. All the time.” The pope replied. Falklore turned his head to one of the statues of the seven, Eden. He walked towards the statue of Eden.

Merus giggled as he noticed Falklore walking to the statue of Eden. “That’s…Eden, right?” He said, turning to the pope.

“Yes, that is her. Mother of Life herself. She has given us many gifts too and is the most kind of all of the Seven.” The Pope answered. Falklore continued to stare.

”huh…” Merus looked to Falklore then he turned himself back to the Pope. “Well she sounds pretty amazing.” He gave a small smile.

“Oh she is, she is the most beautiful woman to ever walk the fileds of Eden, only second to Nunn himself.

She is the birth mother of all kind souls, even yours. She works her blessings through multiple wonderful ways and has given gifts we can never repay.” The Pope said, walking to the statue and standing next to Falklore. Falklore looked over for a moment then turned back to the statue.

The pope turned to Merus. “Would you like to give her a prayer? Perhaps to get her blessing?” He asked.

Merus thought for a moment, ”Maybe I could get a blessing? I’d really like to meet her, even if it is for a short time.” He smiled.

“My child, I'm sure she would love to meet you too. Together now, do as I do.” The pope got on his knees and put his hands together and closed his eyes.

“Will you be joining us Ben?” The Pope asked. Falklore turned to the Pope, nodded his head, and got onto his knees too.

Merus did the same, dropping to his knees and clasping his hands together.

“Now follow my words my sons.” The Pope said.

"Oh bless us Eden, oh mother of life. May your light guide us to grace, guide us to new wonders and love.

Show us your everlasting love and let us show you our admiration. We are here and you are with us.

Bless us Eden, oh bless us." The pope chanted, Merus did too. Falklore prayed in his mind.

“Esmus” The Pope then touched both his shoulders and his head

“How do you feel, my son?” The pope asked Merus. Merus lifted his head with a big smile.

“I feel great!” Merus said with enthusiasm. The Pope smiled and nodded.

“Now if you will excuse me, I'm going to be borrowing Ben here for a bit. Feel free to go and explore the garden while you wait, my son.

We'll only be a few moments.” The pope said.

”Okay!” Merus gave a thumbs up as looked around for the garden. Eventually he had found it and opened the gates

The Garden was wonderful and huge, large and big. Flowers were everywhere and the light from the tree of Eden. Merus looked around, finding a bench of which he sat on. Out of the corner of Merus he could see a woman approaching him.

Merus looked over to the woman in curiosity.

“May I sit besides you?” She was a very radiant woman, upon inspection her appearance was almost blinding, yet almost gave off this feeling of intense nostalgia. Like as if remembering your own birth or a time long since passed.

Her beauty was incomprehensible.

Merus smiled, moving over to let her sit down “Sure!" Merus took a closer look at the woman as his eyes widened

"wait! Aren't you-?"

“I am.” Said Eden with a smile.

"Woah!! You're really beautiful!" Merus said with a giggle. "I have so many questions I want to ask...but I don't want to take up all your time, I know you're very important." He said, turning his head to the ground.

“You’re important too. Everyone is. Ask away.” Eden reassured. Merus smiled slightly.

Merus looked to his hands, feeling them. "...I'm sure you know what i am, the Conduits despise me, they came after me earlier today and I felt helpless. Mutha, even Prism tried to save me...I want to protect my friends, my family. But I don't know how. Could you give me some advice?" Merus said, turning to Eden with a slightly saddened face.

“You will face hardships no matter where you go, but finding the will to overcome them even if they hurt a lot to bear. It’s always best.

You will know what to do Merus, no matter what happens.” Merus’s face lightened up at the reassuring words.

"Thanks. Oh! hehe, i've always wondered how come Falklore never talks? I mean it adds to his mysteriousness but it's kinda hard to make conversation with him." Merus asked.

“Ahem!” Someone grunted. Eden and Merus looked over to see Falklore standing not too far away from them.

“Well speak of the devil.” Eden smiled

"aww he knew! Sorry Falklore i was just curious." Merus said. Falklorelooked at Merus and then to Eden who was smiling at him, he knew exactly what she was doing.

“You can be no fun you know that?” Eden said. Falklore walked to the two, silent as always.

“Still the stone cold silent type, luckily I don't need to hear you to know what you're thinking, you big lug.

...that last mission was pretty dangerous ya’know .” Eden said. Falklore stared at her silently.

“You...No forget, you never listen to me anyway.” Eden said as she looked away. Falklore scratched the back of his helmet and sighed.

”hehe. But Falklore is, like, unstoppable! Did you see him when Death showed up! Hehehe” Merus giggled. Eden nodded, then turned to Falklore.

“I did. You did a good thing Benjamin.” Eden said Falklore nodded his head with a thumbs up.

”I wish I could be like you, Falklore!” Merus said with enthusiasm. Eden smiled

“Well, say something nice Ben.” Eden replied. Falklore looked at Eden then he walked up to Merus and offered him a handshake.

“Sometimes you're just unbelievable.” Eden giggled. Merus smiled, reaching out to shake Falklores hand. He giggled as he did so too.

Eden watched Falklore, she loved how good with kids he was and even in his silence he somehow made others laugh.

“He really is amazing isn't he?” Said Eden as Merus and Falklore looked at Eden.

”Yea! Hehe, he’s really inspired me to be a hero like he is!” Merus said, standing atop the bench. Eden smiled at Merus’s fanboyish ways.

“He's an Inspiration to everyone, even the youngest of people..”

It's amazing how brave you are in the face of total annihilation.” Eden said, looking at him. Falklore stared back silently.

”It’s really awesome! And that’s why I wanna be like you! You’re so brave and powerful and you’re really kind too!” Merus excitingly said

“Yes, yes he is.” Eden got up and walked over to Falklore. Falklore looked at her as she hugged his arm and gave Falklore a kiss on the side of his helmet.

“You've been wonderful Ben. I'm glad I chose you.” Eden said.

Falklore looked at her, unsure what to do. He simply just patted her on the head. Which seemed fine at first until Eden made the comparison that he was treating her like a child or at least a little.

“Do not just pat me on the head like I am some child Ben! A real gift from you is always nice too ya’know.” Eden said with a small pout. Merus giggled at the two's interaction, he found it somewhat cute.

”hehe, hey I have a question! When did you both meet?” Merus questioned.

“I met Ben when he was a boy, he was adorable back then. Of course he still is now.” Eden said as she pat his helmet only for her hand to be grabbed by Falklore a few moments afterwards.

Eden looked over “What is with you today?” She questioned as Falklore lowered Eden’s hand, looking around.

“Oh....Oooooh, young one we should probably step back” Eden said as she grabbed as Merus’s hand and moved away from Falklore

Falklore looked around and then suddenly looked straight up while holding his shield.

“AHHHHHHHHHH!!!!” A booming voice shouted as Thum the void Keeper came smashing down. He was massive, taller than most skyscrapers around the capital itself. His large cosmic axe emitting stars, universes and galaxies. It was a pitch perfect reflection of reality.

He came down smashing his axe right on top of Falklore who blocked it with his shield.

“Thum” Eden said. Merus looked to her in confusion and yet worry for Falklore.

“ARAH!!!” Thum shouted as he continued to smash his axe against Falklore's shield. Falklore continued to block his attacks

“NOT GOOD ENOUGH!” Thum shouted. He then reached with his other hand and grabbed Falklore before throwing him across the garden.

Skidding across the ground, Falklore then jumped to his feet only to see a punch from Thum incoming, he matched it and both of them punched each other's fist.

Merus got behind Eden, looking at Thum. “what is that?!?” Merus said in concern and worry as he continued to watch the battle unfold.

“That is Thum, Keeper of the Void. Falklore's only other rival besides EchoStar. One of the four Knights of Eden.” Eden explained as Falklore gave a thumbs up to Merus. He then turned as he matched another punch with Thum.

“I woke up this day!” He continued to punch at Falklore who matched each mighty punch, however each punch who send Falklore going back a few feet.

“LOOKING TO BREAK YOUR BONES!!”

Thum then grabbed his axe and swept it under Falklore's feet tripping him up, he then grabbed Falklore by his leg and began to slam him back and forth. Falklore hated this move and always got caught by it.

“URRRAGHHH!!!” Thum shouted as he then threw Falklore at a nearby fountain. Falklore crashed into the fountain, he shook his head before then noticed the shadow over him. He looked up to see Thum slam his fist right on top of him, he tried blocking it, but it was too powerful and he went straight in the ground head first.

Thum then grabbed Falklore out of the ground by his legs, like a vegetable. He then proceeded to slam him into the ground.

“COME ON! SHOW ME THE STRENGTH OF THE BEING SLAYER!!!” Thum shouted. Merus began to worry only to see as Falklore threw his shield right at Thum's head knocking him off balance. Falklore then got free of his grip and ran up Thum's arm and uppercut the giant sending him to the ground with a large thud.

“hehehe good, yes, very good.” Thum said as he grabbed his Axe, the two stared at one another. Falklore and Thum both a little exhausted.

“Men” Eden said as she rolled her eyes.

”this is really cool! Falklore is doing really good!” Merus said as he watched the battle unfold.

“They are very good in battle. Most who see them coming usually run in fear. Especially of-“ but before Eden could finish they saw Thum as he then ran towards Falklore who then rolled under Thum, grabbed his shield and then jumped off of Thum's back and jumped off of him and towards a nearby construction sight far in the distant city.

Falklore rolled onto the rooftop of one of the buildings, he looked around the construction site, partially built buildings and some well built too. He figured it was a good place. He then turned around to barely jump out of the way of Thum's fist which completely destroyed the roof of the building. He kept jumping roof to roof as Thum continued to pursue him.

Thum grabbed the middle of his axe and extended it, he then timed his attack right when Falklore was midair and knocked him off balance with yet another leg sweep. Sending Falklore spiraling through the air. He then ran up to Falklore and punched him right into a building where his legs would stick outside it.

Merus watch in awe of the fight, he really couldn’t believe his eyes\* “woooaaaahhh…” he said under his breath

Falklore shook his head as he then saw he dropped his shield inside the building, he grabbed it right before Thum would pull him out of the building and throw him aginst it again.

“Its a good thing you haven't let your victories get to you, otherwise-“ Thum prepared himself using his shield to block the next attack, cursing why he put the being slayer down.

“YOU'D BE DEAD ALREADY!!!” Thum shouted as he then smashed the entire building with his bare hands.

Using the debri from the building, Falklore would jump out of the smoke and high above the construction sign. However as he did a giant black portal would appear behind him to which Thum's fist would come out and punch Falklore into the distance. Falklore was having trouble getting his bearings as he went soaring through the skies of the Citadel.

Thum punched into another portal which appeared beneath Falklore and Thum's fist hit him like a nuke and send him flying straight up hitting the barrier of the Citadel, another portal would appear next to him and punch him straight back to the construction sight where another portal would appear above him where Thu.m would use the butt of his axe and sending Falklore hurtling towards the ground crashing like a comet.

“Lets get a closer look” said Eden as she grabbed Merus shoulders and they both were moved a good distance to the fight. “don't worry, I got you.” She reassured.

“this doesn’t look so good for Falklore! He doesn’t have his sword!” Merus said in worry of Falklore.

“If a warrior isn't as good without his weapon as he is with it then he isn't a warrior.

Some battles, you won't have your tools to protect you.” Eden said as Falklore had gotten up shakily, shaking his head as he looked around for Thum. He absolutely hated Thum's void gates.

“ARGAHHHHH!!” Thum came charging out of one of his void gates which appeared directly behind Falklore and rammed his head right into Falklore, he began to drag him across the ground, Falklore getting hit with all sorts of construction tools, machinery and equipment. He then threw his head up and sent Falklore flying through a building and out a glass panel behind it causing Falklore's helmet to go flying off exposing his face and amber red hair.

”I guess I never thought of it that way.” he looked at Falklore and put on a smile. “YOU CAN DO THIS FALKLORE!!!” Merus cheered him on.

Falklore looked at his helmet in shock as he turned midair and reached for his helmet only for Thum to spin around at high speeds and grab Falklore right out of the air.

Falklore grunted as Thum began to try crushing him. Falklore looked back as his helmet went falling through the air.

“Maybe I was mistaken.” Thum then began to put all his strength into crushing Falklore who began to grunt as he could feel his bones beginning to break.

Falklore then used all his strength and wiggled free his arm which had the shield in it, he then used it and stabbed it into Thum's finger causing the giant to loosen his grip. Falklore then got up onto his hand and threw the shield at Thum's head with immense force causing the giant to teeter backwards. Falklore caught the shield as it bounced back. He then spun around and jumped off his hand and towards his helmet.

Merus looked up to Eden. “he has some pretty hair”

“I know right?” Eden agreed.

Thum regained himself and saw Falklore, he grabbed his axe and extended it again and began to spin around with it, Falklore dove for his helmet and grabbed it at the exact moment Thum would smack him with the side of his axe sending Falklore skidding across the ground.

Falklore picked up his helmet and buckled it back on his head, he then saw Thum charging at him again to which Falklore began sprinting away and dove straight into an open sewer drain to escape from the attack.

Thum looked around for Falklore and then saw the pipelines in the road. He began to stab his axe into the sewer.

As Falklore ran through he dodged Thum's axe multiple times before he then jumped out through another sewer drain only to get wacked into the air by Thum, Falklore then turned around midair and threw his shield at Thum's head sending the giant teetering backwards again

Thum began blocking as Falklore kept throwing his shield at him, each time it bounced off him and went back to Falklore. After the tenth throw Thum jumped over it and then used his axe to swing at Falklore who had no choice but to take the hit and it sent him flying straight into a valley of buildings that were partially built.

Falklore then turned and dove into an alleyway between two buildings grabbing his shield which had bounced back to him.

Thum landed in the ground and then extended his axe again only this time his axe would turn into a dual axe with blades on both ends. He'd break it apart now having two. He then threw one of them into the alley, as he did he then used his void gates to form two portals on each side of Falklore.

Falklore see them and use his shield to stop Thum's fist from hitting him. Placing his shield between them which stopped the attack, Falklore the swung on his shield and threw himself into the air just in time for Thum's other axe to hit his shield and go flying backwards to Thum who caught it. Falklore then clapped his hands together making a shockwave that sent him back down to his shield which he grabbed and then dove out of the alley.

Falklore look to the otherside of the ally for Thum. “Whatcha looking at?” Thum said as Falklore turned around just in time to block one of Thum's axe attacks. Falklore dodged another and slid under another, he'd then throw his shield at Thum's head sending the giant teetering backwards a bit.

“(I hate that damn thing)” Thum thought as he then jumped backwards and put his palm flat against his axe, he then slid it off quickly sending out void like disk which all went flying at Falklore.

Falklore dodged them, ducked, jumped and slid under them. He then jumped one and grabbed the edge of it, he planted his shield in the ground and then spun around while still on it and then sent it flying back at Thum who blocked it only to then get hit again with Falklore's shield to the head.

“Glad you could join us.” Eden said as she and Merus turned around to see yet another knight and sword of Eden standing behind them watching the battle.

“I heard the noise and figured it was something like this.” Echostar said as he walked beside Eden and Merus.

Merus looked at Echostar. “Who is that?” he pointed to him

“That's EchoStar, also known as Uchuu. Another man I had a hand in making a nobel knight of Eden.” Eden explained as Echostar crossed his hands.

“Samurai is a much better way to put it. Who's the little one?” Echostar asked as he noticed Thum and Falklore in the background. “Looks like the fight is reaching its end.”

”Does that mean he’s safe to tell?” Merus asked Eden. She just gave a warm smile.

“You don't need to, he can feel it.” Eden said as the two looked to Echostar.

“Your secret is safe with me child.” Echostar said.

Back in the fight, Thum threw more void disk at Falklore which homed in on him. He also threw punches at Falklore through his void gates which appeared around him

Using his shield, Falk blocked each of the void disk, he then began to absorb them into his shield. As he did he then threw his shield above Thum. As it went flying above it fired the void disk right back at Thum from the shield. Thum looked up and began blocking them.

Falklore ran up to Thum and jumped up into the air and readed a massive attack, as Thum finished blocking he turned around to only get punched in head by Falklore which sent the giant flying backwards into a set of buildings. Falklore landed on the ground and grabbed his shield as it came back to him. Thum shook his head as he got up, he looked at Falklore who was still ready to fight.

“Very impressive, I see you haven't lost your touch.” Thum then resusmonned his axe “a battle well fought Falklore. Very well done.” Falklore nodded

“Looks like it's all over, a great fight. Wouldn't you agree?” Eden asked as she looked down to Merus.

Merus smiled widely as he looked at Falklore from afar. “yea! He did really good!” Merus said with enthusiasm and excitement. Falklore nodded to Thum once more before looking towards Eden, Merus, and Echostar.